AP-360®
Introduction
AP-360® is an eco-friendly and sustainable antimicrobial product that controls harmful, odor-causing bacteria, mold, mildew, and fungus. It is produced from natural resources that are abundantly renewable. Chitin, the active substance, is derived from the shells of snow crabs, and then converted to a hypoallergenic active ingredient that contains unique antimicrobial properties. The antimicrobial characteristics of chitin have been known for some time but have not been commercially viable due to a lack of durability at a reasonable cost. AP-360® has overcome the durability vs. cost issue.
Application
AP-360® is applied in treatments ranging from 0.5 to 3.0% to the weight of fabric, commonly in the pad bath. Treatments vary based on which organisms need to be controlled, and also which fabrics are selected. Generally, cotton requires the lowest treatment, and nylon the highest. Poly-cotton blends and 100% polyester are somewhere in the middle. Other application options are foam (usually carpet) and spray.
AP-360® easily mixes with water and is compatible with most other finishes (wicking, fluorocarbon, etc.), is cationic with a typical pH of around 4, and can graft onto textile surfaces in multiple layers. Heat of over 80oC bonds the layers of molecular chains together, creating lasting results. As a result of its extremely low toxicity potential, AP-360®, when foamed onto the face of broadloom, has become a leading United States market application for the inhibition of mold and mildew.
Extra Benefits
Our new wicking agent, SA5, when combined with our ST4 antimicrobial agent offers a wide range of applications that achieve exceptional results with minimal output. The results translate directly to cost savings as well as increased wicking features, reduced static electricity, breathability, and softer texturing of treated products.
Safety Rating
No antimicrobial registered with the EPA can be designated as "non-toxic" no matter how low the toxicity potential. All goods are labeled as either ”Danger” (highest), ”Warning“ (mid-range), or ”Caution“ (lowest). AP-360® has a caution (lowest) rating and is safe to use for everyone, including those with shellfish allergies. AP-360® is non-leaching and fully biodegradable.
Other Fabric Technologies
Aquatex
What It Does – Water Repellent System
Branding Message – “Stay Dry”™
Garments designed and equipped with Aquatex™ are uniquely outfitted to deliver the utmost protection from the elements. The Aquatex System™ incorporates a water-resistant fabric and a barrier laminate that keeps you dry in wet conditions. Experience the Aquatex™ difference.
Aquatex Plus
What It Does – Breathable Rubber Coating
Branding Message – “Stay Dry”™
Garments equipped with Aquatex+™ are uniquely designed to deliver the utmost protection from the elements. The Aquatex+ System™ incorporates a water resistant-fabric, a breathable rubber coating, and a barrier laminate that keeps you dry in wet conditions. Experience the Aquatex+™ difference.
Moisture Release Transfer
Wicking Fabrics
This modern treatment utilizes a process that allows technical fabrics to draw moisture away from the body unlike cottons, which have a tendency to trap water. The absorption rate of cotton is at least 7% as opposed to a similar polyester yarn, which draws only 0.4%. Due to the hydrophilic nature of cotton, it becomes easy to trap perspiration and wear down the garment. Wicking technology facilitates a quick release and evaporation of moisture, resulting in a continually light and dry garment with an added cooling effect.