YKK innovates with water-repellent zipper for sustainable recycling

YKK has unveiled its new DynaPel™ water-repellent zipper, incorporating GTT EMPEL® technology. This design, compatible with garment recycling systems, utilizes EMPEL® technology instead of the standard PU film to achieve water repellency. By eliminating the PU film, which poses challenges to textile recycling, DynaPel™ aims to facilitate the recycling of performance apparel without the need for additional processing steps.

Terry Tsukumo, Vice President at YKK Corporation, described DynaPel™ as a valuable addition to their circular systems. This innovative zipper addresses the hurdle posed by PU film on water-repellent zippers in traditional garment recycling systems. The absence of PU in DynaPel™ streamlines the recycling process, encouraging recyclers to accept garments without the need for zipper removal.

EMPEL® technology, employed in DynaPel™, utilizes advanced green chemistry without PFAS and a specialized manufacturing process. This process allows the chemistry to penetrate and encapsulate yarn with a durable water-repellent layer through molecular cross-linking. This layer is highly resistant to abrasion and does not affect the visual appearance of the zipper. DynaPel™ is positioned as a sustainable and high-performance solution for water-repellent zippers, representing the future of water protection in this category.

Recent Posts

Twintex expands circular fashion with new collection

Twintex, a pioneer in sustainability within the garment industry, is advancing circular fashion with the launch of its Sustainable Spring/Summer…

14 hours ago

Researchers unveil DyeLoop project to advance textile dyeing

Researchers have launched DyeLoop – Circular Technologies for Textile Dyeing, an initiative aimed at making textile dyeing more cost-effective and…

14 hours ago

Hugo Boss launches Eightyards to repurpose surplus textiles

Hugo Boss has introduced Eightyards, a wholly-owned subsidiary based in Metzingen, Germany, dedicated to reselling, reusing, and upcycling surplus textiles.

15 hours ago

Nanamica launches collection with brewed protein fibers

Nanamica unveils its second collection featuring Brewed Protein fibers, an innovative plant-derived material created through microbial fermentation.

4 days ago

CreateMe partners to unveil innovative adhesive for fashion industry

Warwick researchers, in collaboration with CreateMe Technologies, have developed a thermo-reversible adhesive, enhancing textile recycling and sustainability.

4 days ago

France to approve ban on PFAS in consumer goods

The French Parliament is poised to approve a ground-breaking environmental bill that limits the production and sale of goods containing…

4 days ago