You are on page 1of 53

REPORT

BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES
2017

Prepared by: Biocide Information Limited


Email: info@biocide-information.com
More about us on www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES – 2017

GLOBAL SUMMARY – BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES (Incl Wipes)

Market Size 2017: Active Ingredient


$ 309 Million

BIOCIDE SALES BY REGION:


Table 1: Biocide Sales by Region for Textiles
REGION SALES ($M)
AMERICAS 113.0
ASIA PACIFIC 106.0
EUROPE 90.0

BIOCIDE SALES BY LEADING ACTIVE INGREDIENT:


Table 2: Biocide Sales by Type
BIOCIDES SALES ($M)
Silver 108.5
Silane Quats 43.0
Quats 15.3

BIOCIDE SALES BY LEADING ACTIVE INGREDIENT SUPPLIER:


Table 3: Biocide Sales by Manufacturer
COMPANY SALES ($M)
Microban Aegis 40.0
Sinanen 19.0
Lonza 12.0

Outlook for the future:


• The market for biocides in Textile is expected to show an increase of 3% per year
to 2022. The main growth area is bioactive Textiles with silver. Most application of
Biocides occurs in Asia but the specifiers and purchasers are in America &
Europe.

Biocides to increase / decrease:


• Azoles, Copper, Silane Quats, Silver (including nano silver), n-Halamine, will
experience increased usage in Textiles. Cu/Zn Napthenate, OBPA, PHMB,
Triclosan, TBTO will experience decreased usage in Textiles.

CHAPTER 16 2 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES – 2017

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 INTRODUCTION & METHODOLGY .................................................................................5


1.1 OBJECTIVES............................................................................................................................................................5

1.2 METHODOLOGY....................................................................................................................................................5

1.3 ACCURACY OF THE INFORMATION ...............................................................................................................5

1.4 DEFINITIONS...........................................................................................................................................................5

2 END USER ANALYSIS .....................................................................................................7


2.1 TARGET MARKET .................................................................................................................................................7

2.2 GLOBAL ANALYSIS...............................................................................................................................................9


2.2.1 Biocide Treated Textiles.........................................................................................................................................9

2.3 BIOCIDES USED BY TEXTILE MANUFACTURERS IN AMERICA ...........................................................11

2.4 BIOCIDES USED BY TEXTILE MANUFACTURERS IN ASIA PACIFIC....................................................12

2.5 BIOCIDES USED BY TEXTILE MANUFACTURERS IN EUROPE ..............................................................13

3 BIOCIDE COMPARISON ................................................................................................15

3.1 HOW ANTIMICROBIALS ARE APPLIED TO TEXTILES ............................................................................15


3.1.1 Biocide Coated Finishes .......................................................................................................................................16
3.1.2 Biocide Inherent Fibres.........................................................................................................................................18

3.2 ANTIMICROBIALS EFFICACY TESTING.......................................................................................................19


3.2.1 Testing Standards .................................................................................................................................................20

3.3 APPLICATION RATES.........................................................................................................................................21


* Lower level is used for bactericide, higher level for fungicide applications....................................................................21

3.4 PRICING..................................................................................................................................................................22

3.5 PRICES OF FORMULATED BIOCIDES............................................................................................................23

3.6 ANTI-MICROBIAL COSTS IN SYSTEM ...........................................................................................................24

3.7 REQUIREMENTS FOR ANTI-MICROBIAL AGENTS ...................................................................................25

4 BIOCIDE CONSUMPTION ..............................................................................................26

4.1 GLOBAL AND REGIONAL ANALYSIS.............................................................................................................26

4.2 BIOCIDE CONSUMPTION AT END-USER LEVEL ........................................................................................30

5 BIOCIDE MANUFACTURERS ........................................................................................32


5.1 GLOBAL AND REGIONAL ANALYSIS.............................................................................................................32

CHAPTER 16 3 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES – 2017

5.1.1 Silver Suppliers (From Mine to End-User)...........................................................................................................36

6 DISTRIBUTION ...............................................................................................................39
6.1 OVERVIEW OF DISTRIBUTION CHANNELS ................................................................................................39

7 BIOCIDE FORMULATORS .............................................................................................41

8 VALUE CHAIN ANALYSIS .............................................................................................46

9 REGULATORY ANALYSIS ............................................................................................47


9.1.1 European Biocides Products Regulation...............................................................................................................47
9.1.2 CE Mark ...............................................................................................................................................................48

10 TRENDS ......................................................................................................................49

11 FUTURE ......................................................................................................................53
11.1.1 Market..............................................................................................................................................................53
11.1.2 Biocides ...........................................................................................................................................................53
11.1.3 Geographical Regions......................................................................................................................................53

CHAPTER 16 4 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES – 2017

1 INTRODUCTION & METHODOLGY


1.1 OBJECTIVES

The key objectives of this study were:


1. To provide marketing data on biocides, major textile applications using biocides,
suppliers and customers.

2. To identify and analyse the trends taking place within the biocides industry.

3. To define the distribution channels in the industry.

1.2 METHODOLOGY
The report is based on over 30 interviews conducted throughout the globe. In each industry
analysis, BI contacted textile product manufacturers, biocide manufacturers, suppliers,
distributors and trade associations by telephone and conducted unstructured interviews
typical of the type used in market research. In addition to interviews, the report also
summarises suppliers' product literature, data from trade associations, BI databases and our
monthly biocides information report.

1.3 ACCURACY OF THE INFORMATION


BI believes our estimates to be within 20% of the actual value. The accuracy of the
information is dependent on many factors such as the number of interviews conducted per
application, industry concentration and industry usage patterns. In order to increase our
accuracy, BI increases the number of end-user interviews where an industry is fragmented
and continues to interview until there is similarity in responses. Also all conclusions and data
per industry were confirmed with the key manufacturers of biocides.

1.4 DEFINITIONS
Biocide manufacturers are defined as companies who manufacture biocide active ingredients
in-house. For example BASF, Cerion, Clariant, Dow, Dow Corning, Kodak, Lanxess, Lonza,
Microban Aegis, Sangi, Sinanen, Thor, Toagosei and Troy.

Biocide Blenders / Formulators are defined as companies whose majority of sales comes
from purchasing biocides which they blend into their own products. For example AgIon,
Biocote, BioGate, BioSafe, NanoHorizons, Piedmont, Sanitized, Schulke & Mayr, Thomson
Associates, Valtris etc.

CHAPTER 16 5 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES – 2017

Distributors act as agents for both active manufacturers and biocide blenders. They are the
most popular choice of supplier for small end-users. Distributors sell a range of additives and
so will be making deliveries to end users and therefore biocides tend to be combined with
other products which allow the distributor to be competitive.

Prices are in U.S. dollars and are at active manufacturer level unless stated. The exchange
rates used are shown in the following table:

Table 4: Currency Conversion Rates


$ Currency
1 0.95 EUR
1 6.94 CNY
1 116.95 JPY
1 0.81 GBP

Source: www.xe.com

Volumes are reported in tonnes based on a 100% active biocide basis. In the case of
formulated products, the data is reported with a typical percentage of the formulated product.

CHAPTER 16 6 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES – 2017

2 END USER ANALYSIS

2.1 TARGET MARKET


Problems from microbes occur in textiles where organic matter, high humidity and
temperature support their growth. The main problem microbes in textiles are listed in the
following table:.

Table 5: Common Microbes in Textiles


BACTERIA PROBLEM AREA
E.Coli Food Processing / Healthcare
Camylobacter Food Processing
Listeria Food Processing
MRSA Hospitals
Pseudomonas Odour Causing
FUNGI
Aspergillus Niger Black Spot Mould Growth
Other Mould Fungi Alternarium tenuissima, Aspergillus niger, Fusarium, Geotrichum
Candidum, Mucor Mucuedo, Pencillium spp, Rhizopus nigricans,
Trichoderma viride

There are two major reasons for using biocides in textiles: (1) to provide a biologically active
surface so as to improve freshness, support hygiene and increase odour / allergy control.
Tests have shown that biologically active surfaces reduce cross contamination. (2) The
second reason is for the protection of the textile product.
The majority of Antimicrobials used in the textile industry are to provide a biologically active
surface. The biocides are incorporated or coated onto textile fibres to provide long-term
antimicrobial protection. The need for minimizing or eliminating microbial growth on a variety
of textile-based substrates has being growing especially in healthcare, home furnishings,
filtration and apparel, among others. Biocides can be readily incorporated into synthetic fibres
prior to extrusion through spinnerets to impart antimicrobial activity with minimal effects on
colour and clarity, surface gloss, physical properties and melt flow properties. Biocides may
also be incorporated into coatings that can be applied to staple fibres to impart antimicrobial
activity. Such applications include carpet fibres, water filters of various types, fabrics for use in
healthcare facilities and various institutions, activewear and other apparel, home furnishings
and a variety of non-woven applications including the transportation and bedding industries.
All biocides should be regulatory approved for skin contact applications.

The second reason for using Antimicrobials in the textile industry is for the protection of
natural cellulose fibres. Antimicrobials inhibit the growth of microorganisms on textiles, which
CHAPTER 16 7 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES – 2017

would otherwise cause several undesirable effects, including fabric staining, odours, spread
of microorganisms and loss of strength.

In conclusion, the main Biocidal requirements of the textile industry are bactericides,
fungicides and insecticides which should not impair the material in any way, and should be
absorbed on to the fibre giving good leach resistance, broad spectrum of activity and no skin
irritation.

CHAPTER 16 8 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES – 2017

2.2 GLOBAL ANALYSIS

2.2.1 Biocide Treated Textiles


Biocides are used in a wide range of Textiles to provide microbial protection or a biologically
active surface e.g. bedding, carpets, consumer textiles (sportswear, socks), domestic
(cleaning material such as mops), healthcare textiles, awnings, tents, cordage, ropes and
military textiles. Biocide treated textiles account for 800,000 tonnes or 1% of the total textiles
market. The textile treated market can be segmented as illustrated in the following table:.

Table 6: Volume of Textiles Treated by Biocides


REASON FOR TREATING TEXTILES VOLUME IN Tonnes
To provide Biologically Active Surfaces 600,000
To protect the Textile 200,000
TOTAL 800,000

The leading segments for Biocides are Healthcare. The following table segments the market
by end-use:

Table 7: Consumption of Textiles by Sector


SECTOR PERCENTAGE
Bedding, Carpets 5%
Tents, Covers 10%
Healthcare 60%
Military 5%
Clothes, i.e. socks 15%
Other 5%
TOTAL 100 %

Healthcare textiles are the leading application for Biocides with 60 % of consumption. The
leading healthcare segment using Biocides are woundcare which accounts for the majority of
Biocide usage. Euromonitor estimates the global wound treatment market at $ 2,469 million.
This can be further segmented into Sticking Plasters which accounts for $ 1,861 million and
other is $ 607 million. A major woundcare manufacturer estimates the market for $ 3 bn for
Antimicrobial Dressings & Antimicrobial Plasters. They segment the market into Antimicrobial
Dressings at $ 1.2 Bn and Antimicrobial Plasters at $ 1.8 Bn. Our research would indicate that
every woundcare supplier has a range with Biocides. The following are the Biocides used by
the main woundcare suppliers:

3M: Tegaderm Ag (Silver) Alginate Dressings


CHAPTER 16 9 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES – 2017

Beiersdorf Elastoplast Antibacterial Sensitive plasters have a woundpad containing silver to


help prevent infections.

Convatec: Aquacel Ag, Ag Surgical

Derma Sciences: Algicell Calcium Alginate with Silver


Hollister: Restore Non-Adhesive Foam, Restore Wound Contact Layer with Silver

Johnson & Johnson: Actisorb Silver, Silvercel Medical

Covidien Kendall: AMD, Biatain (formerly Contreet), Colorplast, SeaSorb Ag Alginate


Medline: Arglaes Antimicrobial Barrier, Maxorb Extra, Optifoam Ag, SilvaSorb

Molnlycke Health Care: Mepilex Ag Foam, Melgisorb Ag

MPM Medical: SilverMed Silver Hydrogel


Smith & Nephew: Acticoat (nanosilver). The company purchased Nucryst (specialist
formulator)

CHAPTER 16 10 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES – 2017

2.3 BIOCIDES USED BY TEXTILE MANUFACTURERS IN AMERICA


Biocides are used in a wide range of industries as shown in the following table:

Table 8: Biocides used by Textile Manufacturers in America


Company End Use Application Antimicrobial Used
3M Cleaning cloths Quats
Ashburn Hill Textiles offering Insect Permethrin
Repellency
Alamac Sanitech Fabrics Silane Quats (Aegis)
Biosara Woundcare Products Silver
Celanese Synthetic Fibres Triclosan
Chattem Antibacterial fabrics Triclosan
Chipman Union Odour Eater Socks MicrobanAegis
Comfort Living Mattresses Iodosulfone
Cupron Antimicrobial Bed Sheets Copper infused Fabric
Davidson Cotton Towels Triclosan
Derma Sciences Woundcare Products Quats, Silver
Dr Allergy Mattresses Iodosulfone
Dupont Antibacterial Fibres Silver
Faytex Footwear Fabrics Smart Silver
Fiberweb Root Resistant NonWovens Trifluralin
Formosa Mould Resistant Curtains
Foss Synthetic Fibres Silver & Copper
Fruit of the Loom Sportswear Triclosan
Higgins Uniforms Bioshield
Interface Corp Floor Covering Ammonium Salts
Martin Color Synthetic Yarn MicrobanAegis
Milliken Carpet Manufacturer Silver
BioSmart Antimicrobial fibre Chlorine
Mountville Mills Mats MicrobanAegis
Noble Biomaterials Leading US manufacturer of Silver
silver fibres sold as x-static
Oakley Outdoor Sandals Microban
O’Mara ‘Ecofil’ Antimicrobial Yarn Smart Silver
made from consumer bottles
Pooghe Laundry Casual Cotton Apparel Smart Silver
Precision Fabrics Textile Fabrics MicrobanAegis
Reliable of Milwaukee Outdoor Clothing Smart Silver (NanoHorizons)
Sterling Fibres Textiles Fibres Triclosan
Synthetic Industries Carpet Backing Triclosan
Thai Acrylic Fibres Acrylic fibres Tolfnaftate & Triclosan
Turtle Fur Group Sports Clothing Smart Silver (NanoHorizons)
United Feather & Down Bedding using X-Static silver Silver
fill
United Knitting Fabrics that provide odor Smart Silver
control

CHAPTER 16 11 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES – 2017

2.4 BIOCIDES USED BY TEXTILE MANUFACTURERS IN ASIA PACIFIC


Some of the companies using Biocides in Asia Pacific are listed in the table below.

Table 9: Biocides used by Textile Manufacturers in Asia Pacific


Company End Use Application Antimicrobial Used
Amicor Uniforms Silver
Gunze Socks Silver
Houkoku Uniforms Silver
Hukusuke Underwear, Socks Silver
Kalex Uniforms Silver
Kenin Clothing, Underwear Silver
Kenoun Socks Silver
Lintec Antimicrobial Fabric for Silver
everyday textiles
Omikenshi Antibacterial Viscose Fibres Chitin
Shikibo ‘Flutect’ Antiviral Fiber Silver
Starensier (Hong Kong) Antimicrobial Fabric that Silver (AgIon)
reduces odor
Suzutor Corporation Antimicrobial Fabrics Silver
Toray Uniforms Silver
Uniqlo Manufacturer of Antimicrobial Silver
apparel using Toray Fibres

In addition, countries within Asia Pacific treats a lot of Textiles with anti-microbials for supply
back to Countries within America and Europe.

CHAPTER 16 12 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES – 2017

2.5 BIOCIDES USED BY TEXTILE MANUFACTURERS IN EUROPE


Anti-microbials are used in a wide range of industries to provide microbial protection e.g.
bedding, carpets, consumer textiles (sportswear, socks), domestic (cleaning material such as
mops), healthcare textiles, awnings, tents, cordage, ropes and military textiles as shown in
the following table:.

Table 10: Biocides used by Textile companies in Europe

Company End Use Application Antimicrobial Used


Devan (Belgium) Tents PCP Laurate
Dickson Constant Lorry Covers PCP Laurate, OBPA
Rudolf Heavy textiles TBTO
Tentatox Tents TCMTB & OPP
3M Cleaning clothes Quats
Additive Polymers PP Masterbatches TBTO, triclosan
ADO Curtains with anti odor Silver
Asota Fibres Triclosan
Associated Weavers Carpet Manufacturer Amicor Fibres
Brilen SA Polyester Fibres Triclosan
Chortex Towels to BHS PHMB
Clama Mattress Ticking Diiodomethyl-p-tolysulfone
Fogarty Bed linen Quats
Freudenberg Cleaning cloths Dichlorophen
Intelligent Fabric Cliniweave Silver
Technologies (IFT)
Kardell Cleaning Products Triclosan
Kingsmate “Dynamite” Mattresses OIT &Dichlorophen
combination
M.I.T.I. Polyamide Fibres Silver
Novaceta Apparel Lining Triclosan
PGI Nonwovens Cleaning Products Dichlorophen
Radici Bacteriostatic Fiber Silver from HeiQ Materials
Ramon Cleaning Products OIT
Rhodia Polyamide Fibres Confidential
Rhovyl Chlorofibers Chlorine
Silent Night Mattresses Diiodomethyl p-tolysulfone
Slumberland Mattresses Diiodomethyl p-tolysulfone
Skopos Antimicrobial Fabric Silver from BioCote
Spontex Cleaning cloths Dichlorophen, Quats
Tetrad Household Furniture PHMB
Thai Acrylic Fibres Acrylic fibres Triclosan in acrylics, tolnaftate
used in antidustmite material
Toray Textiles See it Safe antimicrobial Silver
fabric e.g. Uniforms (98 %
polyester and 2 % X-Static
CHAPTER 16 13 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES – 2017

fibres)
Trevira Bioactive antimicrobial fabric Silver
Waxman ‘So’ range of antibacterial Silver
Viscose
Wecovi Cleaning products Quats
Westex Carpets Carpets Ultra-fresh

CHAPTER 16 14 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES – 2017

3 BIOCIDE COMPARISON
3.1 HOW ANTIMICROBIALS ARE APPLIED TO TEXTILES
The method of applying biocides varies depending on end user circumstances. The singular
most popular method of applying biocides is via a coating which can be achieved by ‘padding’
and ‘exhaust’, though other ways are used. Textiles products such as fibres, yarns, fabrics
and garments that are treated with a biocide via the surface, accounts for 90% of all biocide
consumption. The second method known as biocide inherent fibres is achieved via the
incorporation of Fibres with biocides in the spinning solution or mixed at the melt polymer
stage in synthetic fibre production. This accounts for 10% of biocide consumption. The
following table illustrates the volume of Textiles treated by biocides by application:

Table 11: Volume of Textiles Treated by Biocides by Application Method


APPLICATION METHOD VOLUME IN T
Biocide Coated Finishes 730,000
Biocide inherent Fibres 70,000
TOTAL 800,000

Applying biocides as a coating where biocides are added to a bath and absorbed into the
Textile via padding or exhaution. This method is popular with organic type chemicals which
cannot withstand high processing temperatures. In comparison to impregnation (biocide
inherent fibres), coating systems result in the biocide not being as tightly bound to the product
and are more prone to migrate out of the product during use or during wash cycles.
In padding, the fabric is taken from the roll, put through a bath and then squeezed between
two rollers. Products not in roll form such as knitted goods or finished clothes can be treated
by exhaust. Here the solution is applied in a machine similar to a washing machine. The
exhaust technique can also be applied to cones of yarn and fibres.

Spraying methods such as the falling curtain, where the solution is dripped from a dribble bar
on to the fibres passing underneath, are suitable for treating fibres but are not normally
recommended for fabrics because the solution may not penetrate the fabric sufficiently.

For masterbatch, the biocide is added into the fibre during the melt processing stage. Hence,
the additive is an inherent part of each fibre providing a safe and durable antimicrobial
protection to the surface. The application rate for biocides is higher as must use higher levels
if part of the fibre. This method may not be suitable for a lot of organic biocides which have
low temperature resistance.

CHAPTER 16 15 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES – 2017

3.1.1 Biocide Coated Finishes


Biocide coated finishes accounts for 90 % of the application methods for Biocides within the
Textiles industry. The main companies active in the Biocide coated fabric sector are listed in
the following table:

Table 12: Suppliers of Biocide Coated Finishes and Brand


Biocide Finishes Brand
Aegis Microban Aegis
AgIon AgIon
Lonza Purista
Breyner Microstop
Catomance Mystox
BASF Irguard
Healthguard Healthguard
HaloSource Haloshield
Microban Microban
Milliken VisaEndurance
NanoHorizons SmartSilver
Piedmont Foamfresh
Rudolf Ruco-bac
Sanitized (Clariant) Sanitized
Schill & Seilacher Afrotin
Thomson (Huntsman) Ultrafresh

Within Biocide coated finishes, the biocide can be applied at either one of three points during
manufacture of textiles products as follows:

• Pre-Spinning Stage

• Finish Fabric Stage


• Spray onto completed textile product

Apply antimicrobials before spinning the fibre. Spinning the fibre involves the addition of
solvents and other additives with fibre in high temperature processing. The application rate is
based on the effectiveness of the antimicrobial and its compatibility with additives etc.

CHAPTER 16 16 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES – 2017

Applying antimicrobials at finish fabric stage. Textile finishers apply antimicrobials by running
the fabric through a bath in conjunction with other agents such as water repellents and flame
retardants. The application rate is based on the weight of the textiles and is typically applied
at 0.2% to 2%.

Spray onto completed textile product. Textile producers purchase in fabric for manufacture of
their own products i.e. mattresses, sponges etc. If the fibre is not already treated, they may
apply the antimicrobial by spraying onto the finished product. Many cleaning product
producers i.e. sponges apply antimicrobials by this method.

CHAPTER 16 17 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES – 2017

3.1.2 Biocide Inherent Fibres


Biocide inherent fibres account for 10 % of all the biocides application methods used in
Fibres. The main companies active in Biocide Inherent Fibres are listed in the following table:

Table 13: Suppliers of Biocide Inherent Fibres and the Brand


Biocide Inherent Fibres Brand
Advansa Allerban
Asota Coolmax
Dak Hydropur
Miroglio Saniguard
Nylstar Meryl Skinlife
Radici Radilon
Rhovyl Rhovyl
R-Stat Silver Stat
Sinterama Bactershield
Thai Acrylic Amicor
Toray Mushon
TWD Diolen
Trevira Bioactive
UNIFI A.M.Y.
Wellman Wellcare

CHAPTER 16 18 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES

3.2 ANTIMICROBIALS EFFICACY TESTING

If a supplier of a fabric treatment is to make the claim that its product prevents the
proliferation of micro-organisms, testing for antimicrobial activity is crucial to substantiate that
claim. Various tests are used to demonstrate the effectiveness of this activity, including the
following.

Agar diffusion test: an antimicrobial-treated textile sample is placed on an agar dish


inoculated with a test micro-organism and is then incubated for 1-2 days. If the antimicrobial
has been effective in inhibiting microbial growth, a no-growth area or “zone of inhibition” can
be detected around the sample. The formation of a zone of inhibition is the result of the
antimicrobial agent migrating from the textile into the surrounding agar. The size of this zone
is dependent not only on the effectiveness of antimicrobial activity but on the rate of migration.

Count test: an antimicrobial-treated textile sample is placed into a sterile container and then
inoculated with a test micro-organism. After a period of incubation, the sample is treated with
a neutraliser to stop the antimicrobial action. The number of surviving micro-organisms is then
counted. Typically, a count test is used for inorganic antimicrobials as they do not readily
migrate across agar.

Sniff test: in this unsophisticated test, samples of clothing, some of which have been treated
with antimicrobial agents, are distributed to test participants who are asked to wear the items
for a specific time period. At the end of the period, they are asked if the items had an
unpleasant odour and whether they had perceived any allergic reaction or skin irritation.
The main tests used for monitoring antimicrobial actives within textiles are the Swiss test
SNV195920 and the American based AATCC 100 and AATCC 147 test. The AATCC is the
standard test method from the American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists
(AATCC). For outdoor applications, there are many standards set.

CHAPTER 16 19 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES

3.2.1 Testing Standards


As the incorporation of antimicrobial agents into clothing is relatively new, there are as yet no
internationally recognised efficacy testing methods. However, recognised testing houses such
as Hohenstein, IFTH and BTTG perform efficacy testing in accordance with a number of
commonly used standard tests. The following table outlines some of these tests.

Table 14: Commonly Used Standard Tests for Assessing Antimicrobial Efficacy
Test Method Description Clothing Tested
AATCC-100-1998 (USA) Count Test Socks, t-shirts, training shoe liners,
Underwear
AATCC-147-1998 (USA) Agar diffusion Socks, t-shirts, training shoe liners
test

SN-195 920, 1994 (Switzerland) Agar diffusion Socks, t-shirts, training shoe liners
test

JIS L 1902-1998 (Japan) Count test Socks, t-shirts, training shoe liners
BS 6085 Part 4, 1992 (UK) Assessment of Woollen garments
resistance to
bacterial
degradation
BS 6085 Part 5, 1992 (UK) Mildew and Swimwear
fungal growth
analysis

CHAPTER 16 20 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES

3.3 APPLICATION RATES


Biocides are added during manufacture and used at between 0.1% and 5% on a formulated
product level. Biocides are generally not supplied as 100% ai.
The most important factor governing the use level of antimicrobials is the efficacy of the active
ingredient. All the Biocides within Textiles are used at 1% which is equivalent to between
100ppm to 1,000ppm as shown in the following table which compares application rates in
percent.

Table 15: Comparison of Application levels for the Leading Antimicrobials in Textiles
Application Rate
Product Supplier Trade Name
(%)
1% permethrin & 1% Sanitized, Acticide (2%) 0.5%
oit Healthguard
Silane Quat MicrobanAegis AEM 5772/5 5%
Piedmont Foamfresh 3851 (35 %)
Dichlorophen (1%) Sanitized AG Sanitized T 90-04 1%
OIT (1%)
OBPA (2%) Dow Vinyzene (2% ai) 1%
Propiconazole Catomance Mystox range (98%) 0.5-1%
TCMTB + OPP Catomance Mystox range (20%) 0.5 -1%
2-(4-thiazolyl) Lanxess Metasol TK 100 1%
benzimidazole
Tolnaftate BASF Tinosan XDM (3.5%) 0.5 - 1%
Permethrin Microstop Microstop 2%
40% tolysulfone Thompson Research Ultrafresh 40 0.5% - 1%
PHMB (20%) Lonza Reputex 0.5% - 1%
Silver (1%)* Novaron Toagosei 0.2% - 1%
Triclosan (100%) BASF Irgasan DP 300 0.1% - 0.3%
TBTO (25% a.i.) Thomson Research Ultra-Fresh DM 50 0.25%
Zinc Pyrithione Lonza Zinc Omadine 1%

* Lower level is used for bactericide, higher level for fungicide applications

CHAPTER 16 21 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES

3.4 PRICING
The prices of biocides are governed by;

(1) Geographical Region

(2) Quantities purchased


(3) Regulatory approval which can be further segmented into highly regulated (FDA) and
standard (EPA)

(4) Formulation of Biocide

(5) Licensing
(6) Technical Support

(7) Promotional support.

Using the most popular biocide in Textiles as an example, there can be a 600 % difference in
price between a non regulatory approved silver formulation and a regulatory approved silver
formulation. For example, some large bandage producing companies, purchase silver metals
(average price of $ 16 per ounce in 2015) which works at around $ 600 per kg. They organise
for the conversion of silver into a suitable formulation (silver nitrate). This could cost them $
50 per kg (active ingredient and formulation costs) versus the $ 100 per kg which is
commonly charged by Formulators. The following table provides examples of typical prices for
the most popular Biocides in Textiles e.g. silver.

Table 16: Prices for Silver


BIOCIDE BRAND SUPPLIER $/KG
Silver (Ishizuka) Ionpure YS Care 130
Silver (Zeonic from Sinanen) Zeonic Agion 100
Silver (Novaron from Toagosei) AlphaSan Clariant 100
Silver (Ishizuka) Sanitized MBE 99- Sanitized 110
58
Silver (Sangi)* Apacider AK Sangi 70
* Sangi has no EU approval.

Many textile manufacturers rely on antimicrobial suppliers for registration, application and
technical support. The exception is some of the large woundcare manufacturers see this as
part of their core business and so do their own registration etc.

CHAPTER 16 22 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES

3.5 PRICES OF FORMULATED BIOCIDES


Some common antimicrobials used in textiles are shown in the following table which lists
formulated antimicrobial suppliers, tradenames and selling prices.

Table 17: Comparison of Biocides used in Textiles


% AI in Formulated Price
Chemistry Trade name Supplier
formulation $/kg
OBPA Vinyzene DOW 5% 10
Propiconazole Mystox range Catomance 98% 80
TCMTB + OPP Mystox range Catomance 20% 20
PHMB Reputex Lonza 20% 10
Quat (3- Biosil or AEM Dow Corning 42% 22
(Trimethoxysilyl) 5772/5 MicrobanAegis
propyl dimethyl
octadecyl
ammonium Foamfresh Piedmont 35 % 10
chloride 3851
Tolftnate Tinosan XDM BASF 3.5% 35
Triclosan Vikol THP Vikon Chemical 2% 10
Triclosan Microban Microban 2.5% 20
Triclosan Tinosan CEL BASF 2.5% 10
Diiodomethyl-p- Ultra-Fresh Thomson 40% 60
tolysulfone DM-40 Research

Dichlorophen Sanitized T Sanitized AG 1% 10


OIT 90-04
1% permethrin & Actigard Sanitized 2% 20
1% oit
2-(4-thiazolyl) Metasol TK Lanxess 98.5% 80
benzimidazole 100
Silver (Ishizuka) Ionpure (YS 1.5% 130
Care)
Silver (Sinanen) Zeonic (AgIon) 3% 100
Silver (Toagosei) AlphaSan 3% 100
(Clariant)
Silver (Ishizuka) Sanitized MBE 1.5% 130
99-58
Permethrin Microstop Microstrop 2% 10

CHAPTER 16 23 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES

3.6 ANTI-MICROBIAL COSTS IN SYSTEM


The comparison in the following table is based on 1 tonne purchases of biocides where
regulatory, technical and promotional support is provided. There may be an extra premium
provided for medical applications. The cost of using biocides in 1 kg of Textile is
demonstrated in the following table in $.

Table 18: Cost of using Biocides to treat Textiles


Application
Selling Cost to
Tradename Rate in
Chemistry Price use per
(Supplier) final
$/kg kg
Product
1 % permethrin & Actigard 2% 20 $0.4
1 % 0ctylisothiazolinone (Sanitized)
3- AEM 5772/5 2% 22 $0.44
(trimethoxysilyl)propyldimethyloctadecyl (MicrobanAegis)
ammonium chloride
35 % 3- Foamfresh 3851 5% 10 $0.5
(trimethoxysilyl)propyldimethyloctadecyl (Piedmont)
ammonium chloride
Dichlorophen & OIT Actigard 2% 10 $0.2
(Sanitized)
diiodomethyl-p-tolysulfone Ultra-Fresh DM 1% 60 $0.6
(Thompson Research) 40
OBPA Vinyzene 1% 10 $0.1
Propiconazole Mystox 0.5% 80 $0.4
TCMTB & OPP Mystox 0.5% 20 $0.1
2-(4-thiazolyl) benzimidazole Metasol TK 100 1% 80 $0.80
(Lanxess)
Permethrin Microstop 2% 10 $0.20
20 % PHMB Reputex 2% 10 $0.20
(Lonza)
Silver (Ishizuka) Ionpure .2% 130 $.26
(YS Care)
Silver (Novaron from Toagosei) AlphaSan .2% 100 $.2
(Clariant)
Silver (Ishizuka) Sanitized MBE .2% 100 $.2
99-58
Triclosan MicrobanAegis 2% 20 $0.4
Zinc pyrithione (Lonza) Zinc Omadine 1% 50 $0.50
As can be seen in the above table, the cost of incorporating Biocides ranges from $0.1 per kg
for OBPA to $0.8 per kg for TBZ. This low cost may explain the success of Biocides which
can provide hygienic surfaces used for allergy / hygiene / odour control. The Biocides can be
incorporated into products at low cost yet allow the end product manufacturer to make a
significant claim.

CHAPTER 16 24 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES

3.7 REQUIREMENTS FOR ANTI-MICROBIAL AGENTS

An effective antimicrobial must not only prevent the growth of micro-organisms, it should also
exhibit the following:

(1) Ease of application: an antimicrobial treatment should be easy to apply to fabrics.

(2) Safety: an antimicrobial must not cause allergic skin reactions. Also, it is important that
antimicrobial treatments do not affect non-target organisms, e.g. “good” bacteria, and
that they do not encourage micro-organisms to mutate. Furthermore, an antimicrobial
should not be harmful to humans or the environment and should comply with the
statutory requirements of regulatory bodies.
(3) Durability: an antimicrobial agent must be effective over the life of the treated product.
It must therefore be able to withstand repeated laundering and prolonged wear.

(4) Compatibility: an antimicrobial treatment should have no adverse effects on the other
important properties of the textile to which it is applied. It should also be compatible
with other finishing agents used in the textile.

CHAPTER 16 25 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES

4 BIOCIDE CONSUMPTION

4.1 GLOBAL AND REGIONAL ANALYSIS


The global market for speciality biocides in Textiles is $ 309 million. The leading biocide
consumed in the global Textiles market is silver with sales of $ 108.5 million at manufacture
level. The following table summarises biocide sales in $ million at active manufacture level
broken down by geographical region.

Table 19: Biocide Sales by Type within Textiles


AMERICAS ASIA PACIFIC EUROPE GLOBAL
BIOCIDE
($M) ($M) ($M) ($M)
Alcohol 5.0 3.6 3.0 11.6
BIT/MIT 0.4 0.4
Carbendazim 1.0 1.4 1.0 3.4
Chlorhexidine 3.6 2.2 1.3 7.1
CMIT/MIT 2.5 1.5 0.5 4.5
Copper 3.0 2.5 2.0 7.5
DCOIT 3.0 2.0 3.0 8.0
Formaldehyde
4.0 5.6 3.2 12.8
Releasers
Insecticides 2.4 2.0 1.5 5.9
IPBC 2.0 0.2 1.6 3.8
MIT 0.8 0.3 0.7 1.8
OBPA 1.0 1.0 2.0
OIT 3.0 1.5 4.5
Organic acids 6.0 2 5.0 13.0
Parabens 1.0 0.7 0.8 2.5
Phenolics 1.5 1.3 1.2 4.0
PHMB 2.0 5.2 1.0 8.2
Propiconazole 1.0 1.5 2.5
Quats 5.2 5.5 4.6 15.3
Silane Quats 14.0 20.0 9.0 43.0
Silver 36.0 38.0 34.5 108.5
Sodium Pyrithione 0.5 0.5
TBTO 1.0 1.0
TCMTB 0.5 1.0 0.7 2.2
Thiabendazole 0.2 0.5 0.7
Tolysulfone 2.0 0.5 2.5
Triclosan 1.6 5.0 1.0 7.6
Zinc Pyrithione 3.0 4.0 7.0
Other e.g. trifluralin 7.3 3.5 6.4 17.2
TOTAL 113.0 106.0 90.0 309.0

CHAPTER 16 26 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES

Silver consumption in Textiles is estimated at $ 108.5 million. Silver is the leading biocide
used due to its safety for human contact, high heat resistance, long term efficacy and
prevention of growth of a broad range of microorganisms. Silver is normally supplied as a 1%
- 3% a.i. formulation and added to give 0.1% in the final product. BASF, Clariant, Ishizuka,
Kanebo, Sinanen Zeomic and Toagosei are the leading formulators of silver. Smaller
suppliers include Cerion and Kodak. Silver can be applied as a textile surface treatment and
via biocide inherent fibres. It is supplied by most of the biocide formulators who are active in
the Textile industry and it is used by the majority of fibre manufacturers.

Silane Quats consumption in Textiles is $43 million. 3-(tri-methoxysilyl)


propyldimethyloctadecyl ammonium chloride is a silane quat manufactured by Dow Corning,
Gelest, Nikka Chemical, Piedmont Chemical and Sanyo Chemical. The leading formulator for
Silane quats is MicrobanAegis. It is licensed under the tradename of AEM 5772/5. It is also
sold as Bioshield brand by International Biochemical Industries and Biosil by Dow Corning.
Aegis AEM brand accounts for the majority of sales. AEM is mainly supplied as a 5% active
material with a recommended application of 2%. The biocide is normally applied via padding
or exhaution. The main competing silane quat is foamfresh from Piedmont. The product has
experienced most success in textiles and fibre filters. Leading users of the silane quats are:
Odour Eater Socks, Allied Socks, Burlington Bioguard Socks, Marks & Spencer Fresh Feet
range of Socks, Westpoint Stevens to produce a range of uniforms called Sanitech fabrics,
Newmark Rugs produce the Germguard bath rugs, Precision Fabrics produce fabrics for
surgical drapes and Purolator home air filters.
Organic Acids are growing within the Textiles industry with sales of $ 13 Million. The most
popular organic acid is citric acid which is used within Kleenex Anti-Viral tissues where it
provides inactivation of certain viruses within the tissue. Citric Acid is used at ranges from
0.6% to 8 %. Wexford Labs offers Clean-Cide which contains 0.6 % citric acid in Wipes.

Polyhexamethylene biguanide hydrochloride (PHMB) has sales of $8.2 million and is


growing in usage within Textiles such as socks, t-shirts and towels due to its effectiveness
and kindness to skin. It is widely used in contact lens solution and swimming pools. PHMB
has broad spectrum of activity, fast speed of kill and is compatible with non ionic and cationic
surfactants. The product can be applied during most stages of production –from fibre
manufacturer to the finishing of the end product. The market leader in production of PHMB is
Lonza who supplies it via the Reputex and Purista brands. The Purista brand enjoys a strong
position in the UK where it is used by leading fashion retailers such as Next and Tesco.

CHAPTER 16 27 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES

Smaller producers include generic producers such as Medichem and Evonik (formerly
Degussa).

Triclosan consumption in Textiles is estimated at $7.6 million. The leading manufacturer of


triclosan is BASF who sell under the tradename of Irguard and Tinosan. BASF is followed by
Generic producers. Triclosan is used in all sectors due to its effectiveness and broad
regulatory approvals. Triclosan is supplied as 96% active substance in powder form and in
formulations with varying active substance concentration. Triclosan (96% ai) is used at 0.2%
of the final product.

Triclosan is normally applied as a textile surface treatment where it will be typically washed
out after 50 washes. However, if incorporated into the fibre/polymer it will retain its
antimicrobial activity for up to 200 washes. The major customers for triclosan are (1) Microban
who sell a textile finish under the tradename of Microban. (2) Celanese who produce an
acetate fibre with 2% triclosan which is sold under the tradename of Microsafe. (3) Rhovyl
who supply a fibre masterbatch containing 2% triclosan. (4) Sanitized who sell a textile finish
under the tradename of Actifresh. (5) Sterling Fibres who supply triclosan treated fabrics sold
under the tradename of Bio-fresh as a masterbatch to a wide range of customers. (6) Thai
Acrylic Fibre (formerly Accordis) who produce an acrylic fibre containing triclosan which is
sold under the tradename of Amicor AB. (7) Thomson who sell a textile finish under the
tradename of Ultra-Fresh.

Copper consumption within Textiles is $ 7.5 million. Copper includes copper alloys, copper
napthenate and copper in its oxidized state such as Cuprous Oxide. Copper can be combined
with other metals to create alloys such as brass and bronze. These materials can be used to
create an antimicrobial surface suitable for a range of applications. Copper napthenate is
mainly used as a preservative within tents and tarpaulins. Copper alloys is used in Textiles for
medical applications where it provides anti-infection benefits as well as wound healing
properties. The leading supplier is Cupron who utilize natural recycled, copper as its main
ingredient. Cupron Technology has been validated for use in a wide variety of materials and
products by three EPA registrations, including two antimicrobial “treated article” registrations
and one “public health” anti-dustmite registration. For the future, copper alloys will continue to
grow due to the strong backing of copper manufacturers via Antimicrobialcopper.com

Zinc Pyrithione has sales of $7 million within the global textiles industry. Zinc Pyrithione sells
for $ 50 per kg (100% ai) at active manufacture level and is growing in usage due to: (1) Good
efficacy against decay and mould fungi (2) Excellent environmental profile (3) Does not leach
in water based formulations. Zinc pyrithione is manufactured by Dalian Bio-Chem, Janssen,

CHAPTER 16 28 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES

Lonza and API. The product is the main biocide supplied by Schill & Seilacher, the German
textile formulator.

Quaternary ammonium compounds (or quats) consumption in Textiles is $ 15.3 million


and they are widely used in Wipes. A large number of quats are offered, differing by type and
alkyl group length chain. Quats owe their surface activity and antibacterial characteristics to
the presence of certain aliphatic, long-chain amino groups that, by themselves or rather in the
form of a soluble ammonium salt, display surface active and antibacterial properties. There
are many manufacturers of Quats to the Textiles industry.

Phenolics have combined sales of $ 4 million in Textiles. Phenolics include dichlorophen, p-


chloro-m-cresol, Orthophenyl Phenol (OPP) and Pentachlorophenate. They are mainly used in
the Preservation of Textiles. Phenolics are manufactured by a number of companies including
DOW and Lanxess.

Other includes Hydrogen Peroxide, Natural Biocides and Bamboo.

Hydrogen Peroxide Includes wipes containing hydrogen peroxide as sole ingredient and
products containing a stabilised form of hydrogen peroxide called "Accelerated Hydrogen
Peroxide (AHP)". AHP is a patented synergistic blend developed by the Virox company that
increases the germicidal potency. One example is Clorox Healthcare Hydrogen Peroxide
Disinfectant wipe with 1.4 % hydrogen peroxide.
Natural Biocides are mainly used to provide a biologically active surface rather than
preservation. Natural biocides are used by clothing and footwear suppliers to prevent or mask
odours in their products. Some of the more popular natural biocide materials are bamboo
fibre, chitosan, Lenpur fibre, Natural pyrethrum essential oils, Neen oils and Tea Tree Oil.
Chitosan is the most popular followed by Bamboo fibre. Chitosan is derived from chitin, a
strong, waterproof material produced by crustaceans, such as crabs and shrimps, to form
their protective outer shells. Fabrics containing chitosan are used in applications such as
sportswear, socks and underwear.

Bamboo is a sustainable source of fibre with inherent antibacterial properties and has
excellent eco-friendly credentials. Bamboo is rarely attacked by pests as it contains a unique
antimicrobial substance called “bamboo kun” which bonds tightly to bamboo cellulose
molecules.
The leaves and pith of the bamboo plant can be easily processed into fibre. They are crushed
into a fine pulp which is then mixed with caustic soda and spun into fibre. The fibre is often
mixed with other fibres, such as cotton, and then woven into fabric.
CHAPTER 16 29 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES

4.2 BIOCIDE CONSUMPTION AT END-USER LEVEL


The global market for speciality biocides in textiles at the end user level is estimated at $ 927
million or 200% more than the value of the sales at the active level as shown in the following
table:.

Table 20: Consumption of Biocides within Textiles at Manufacture and End User level
Sales at Distribution
Sales at end-
manufacture route to end- % Mark-Up
user level ($M)
level ($M) user in %
Active
309 50 200* 465
Manufacturer
Biocide Formulator 30 200 ** 278
Fibre Masterbatch
20 200 *** 184
Producer
Total
309 100 927 ****

** Mark-up for Active Ingredient at 200 % assumes the active ingredient manufacturer
achieves all the value along the supply chain but in Textiles, the end-user achieves most of
this value as they complete formulation and regulatory approval e.g. FDA (CE Approval)
regulatory support where the Biocide is used in medical applications such as in woundcare
products. Such activities are undertaken by the large bandage manufacturers.
** Mark-up for Formulator includes mark-ups for Biocide Active Manufacturer and also reflects
the extra costs incurred in providing development, formulation and FDA (CE Approval)
regulatory support where the Biocide is used in medical applications such as in woundcare
products.

*** Mark-up for Masterbatch includes mark-ups for Active Manufacturer, Biocide Formulator.
The mark-up includes regulatory support.

Included in the total value at end-user is the Mark-up for Distributor which is an average 12 %.
Biocide formulators have 30 % of the sales at end-user level with formulated biocide sales to
the textiles industry being supplied via specialist formulators such as AgIon, Anovotek,
Bactiguard, BioGate, Catomance, Heiq Materials, MicrobanAegis, NanoHorizons, Quick Med,
Sanitized, Thomson and Valtris.

The mark up differs significantly depending on end-use. For preservation of Textiles, the
mark-up tends to be 100% whereas for hygiene surfaces especially FDA applications such as
wound care products, the mark-up can be as high as 400% if the biocide formulator provides
regulatory, technical and formulation support.

CHAPTER 16 30 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES

Antimicrobial manufacturers have 50 % of formulated biocide sales to the textiles industry.


The average mark-up for supplying direct to endusers is 200 % and this can vary widely
depending on the final end application for the Biocide. The mark-up tends to be 100% for
preservation of textiles whereas it can be as high as 500 % if the biocide manufacturer
provides regulatory, technical and formulation support in high value ‘hygienic’ applications. In
our research, we did not identify any biocide manufacturers who were providing the full (FDA)
regulatory support for high regulatory applications.

20% of formulated biocides are supplied via fibre masterbatch producers. The fibre
masterbatch producers incorporate the biocides into fibres and this treated fibre is sold to
textile finishers where their customers blend it with untreated fibres. Leading Masterbatch
companies include Acordis, Americhem, Asota, Brilen, Celanese, Dak, Foss, Lenzing, MITI,
Montefibre, Novaceta, Nylstar, Olcese, Rhovyl, Specialty Filaments, Sterling Fibres, Synthetic
industry, Thai Acrylic Fibre and Trevira. The emergence of Fibre Masterbatch producers is
due to the fact that producers of finished fibres do not possess the internal staff and
capabilities to develop antimicrobial solutions, choosing to focus solely on production. This
has made them more dependent on their fibre (masterbatch) suppliers where most effective
solutions are provided by cooperative developments.

CHAPTER 16 31 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES

5 BIOCIDE MANUFACTURERS

5.1 GLOBAL AND REGIONAL ANALYSIS


MicrobanAegis is the leading manufacturer of biocides used in Textiles with sales of $ 40
million at manufacture level. The sales of biocides at manufacturer level (a.i) for the leading
manufacturers are illustrated in the following table:

Table 21: Biocide Sales by Manufacturer in $ Million - Global and Regional


AMERICAS ASIA PACIFIC EUROPE GLOBAL
MANUFACTURER
SALES ($M) SALES ($M) SALES ($M) SALES ($M)
Akzo Nobel 1.0 2.1 3.1
Arkema 0.6 0.6
BASF 3.0 3.0 2.0 8.0
Buckman 1.0 1.0 0.5 2.5
Changzhou Ruihao 1.0 1.0
Clariant 2.0 1.0 2.4 5.4
Copper Suppliers 3.0 2.0 2.0 7.0
Dalian Biochem 2.0 2.0
Dow 8.0 5.4 2.8 16.2
Gelest 3.0 2.0 5.0
Halosource 5.0 5.0
Ishizuka 3.0 2.0 5.0
Janssen 0.5 0.5 1.0
Kanebo 4.0 2.0 1.0 7.0
Kao 3.5 3.5
Lanxess 1.0 2.0 3.0
Lonza 5.0 2.0 5.0 12.0
PilotMason 3.0 0.5 3.5
MicrobanAegis 25.0 11.0 4.0 40.0
Molyncke 2.0 1.0 3.0
Sangi 2.0 2.0 2.0 6.0
Schulke 1.0 1.0 3.0 5.0
Sharon 1.0 1.0 2.0 4.0
Sinanen 5.0 6.0 8.0 19.0
Solvay 1.0 1.0
Stepan 2.0 0.3 1.0 3.3
Thor 3.0 2.8 2.0 7.8
Toagosei 5.0 3.0 3.0 11.0
Troy 8.0 4.0 4.0 16.0
Ueno 1.0 1.0
Valtris 2.0 2.0
Xttrium 1.0 1.0
Other e.g. Cupron 19.0 44.0 35.1 98.1
TOTAL 113.0 106.0 90.0 309.0
CHAPTER 16 32 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES

MicrobanAegis is the leading manufacturer of biocides to the Textiles industry with sales of
$40 million. Aegis license 3-(tri-methoxysilyl) propyldimethyloctadecyl ammonium chloride
from Dow Corning and supply direct and via distributors under the tradename of AEM 5772/5.
MicrobanAegis has global coverage in the Americas, Asia and Europe.

BASF is a major manufacturer of active ingredients and formulated biocides used in textiles
with sales of $8 million. The company manufactures triclosan and tolnaftate. BASF purchases
in thiabendazole and silver for resale. The company sells direct to treated product
manufacturers and also via biocide formulators such as Microban. The future for BASF’s
biocides in textiles is very positive as the company offers a full product line along with a
dedicated business unit to drive sales.

Dow Chemical has sales of $ 16.2 million to the textiles industry. The company manufactures
DCOIT, OIT, diiodomethyl-p-tolysulfone, Silane Quats and Silver. Dow acquires silane quats
from the acquisition of Dow Corning who were the leading manufacturer of silane quats to the
textiles industry. Dow Corning supplied silane quats directly to endusers in Asia with particular
success in Japan where it is sold as Biosil.

Dow sells under the tradename of Amical and Silvadur. Diiodomethyl-p-tolysulfone is used in
textile applications via specialist formulators such as Microban and Thomson Research
Associates. The product has seen success in such applications as carpet backing and as
antidustmite agent. Dow has received a major boost for Amical with its adoption by Microban
as a preferred fungicide. Dow fungicides such as DCOIT, OBPA and OIT are used in the
preservation of textiles e.g Tents.

Halosource Corp is based in Seattle with sales of $5 million to the textiles industry. The
company has patented a process which allows clothes to be produced with a built in
detoxifier. The system is based on chlorine and hydantoin. Treated clothing can be laundered
up to 50 times with 0.01% bleach to re-activate the process. The system can be used for
medical uses, giving an antibacterial action to clothing and bedding in hospitals.

Ishizuka Glass has sales of $5 million to the textiles industry. The company is the second
largest global supplier of silver. The company sells directly in Japan and has specialist
distributors in America and Europe. Ishizuka supply antibacterial powder (0.5%-2.0% Ag) with
a recommended application rate of 1% to give 0.01% in the final formulation.

CHAPTER 16 33 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES

Janssen has sales of $1 million to the textiles industry with propiconazole and zinc pyrithione.
The company supplies via specialist textile formulators.

Kanebo has sales of $7 million to the textiles industry. The company is the third leading
supplier of Silver in the globe. Kanebo has a joint venture with BASF who are their lead
distributors in America and Europe.

Lonza is a manufacturer of IPBC, n-butyl BIT, PHMB and Zinc Pyrithione which are used in a
range of textiles such as Wipes. The company has sales of $12 million to the textiles industry
at manufacture level. Lonza supplies direct via the brand Purista and Reputex. They also
supply via specialist formulators such as Microban, Schill & Seilacher etc.

Sinanen has sales of $19 million to the textiles industry. The company is the leading supplier
of silver in the globe. Sinanen supply silver under the tradename of zeomic and have selected
Agion as their exclusive supplier all over the World except Southeast Asia (China, Malaysia,
Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam) and Japan. In Japan, Zeomic has
received approval from all organisations supporting Antimicrobials while in the US, Zeomic
has accreditation from EPA, FDA and NSF (National Sanitation Foundation: a private
accrediting organisation for waterworks related equipment. Sinanen is estimated to have 25%
of the Japanese market for silver formulations as biocides. The company supplies
antibacterial powder (2%-3.8% Ag in zeolite) with a recommended application rate of 1% to
give 0.015% Ag in the treated product (double if want to control fungi). Zeomic has been
adopted by Du Pont in its paint formulation, Adidas in its leather products, AK Steel in its steel
plates, Honeywell in its humidifiers, Bosch Siemens in the inner compartments of their
refrigerators and Mitsui Mining Company in its concrete additives.

Sangi has sales of $6 million to the textiles industry. Sangi sell silver under the tradename of
Apacider AK. The company has regulatory approvals for silver in Japan only.

Thor is the second largest supplier of DCOIT and OIT which is used as a mould control agent
in textiles industry. Thor supplies fungicides under the Acticide tradename and has sales &
technical support in America, Europe and in Asia (Australia, Singapore and Japan). The
company has biocide sales of $ 7.8 million to the textiles industry at active manufacture level.

Troy is the leading supplier of IPBC and OBPA which are used as a mould control agent
within textiles such as Tents etc. Troy supplies fungicides under the Micropel tradename and

CHAPTER 16 34 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES

the company has sales & technical support in America, Europe and in Asia. The company has
Biocide sales of $16 million to the textiles industry at active manufacture level

Toagosei has sales of $11 million to the textiles industry. Toagosei is the fourth leading
supplier of Silver globally. Toagosei supply silver under the tradename of Novaron. They
supply antibacterial powder (2%-3.8% Ag in zirconium phosphate) with a recommended
application rate of 1% (double if want to control fungi). They also supply a concentrated
antibacterial powder with 9% - 11% Ag. Outside of Asia, Toagosei use Milliken as their
exclusive agent in America and Europe.

Xttrium Laboratories has sales of $ 1 million to the Textile industry and is the largest U.S.
supplier of FDA-approved 2 and 4% chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) formulations. Xttrium is
also the leading U.S. manufacturer of 20% USP Chlorhexidine Gluconate, an antimicrobial
agent. Other segment has sales of $ 99 M and includes specialist companies such as Resil
who are an Indian manufacturer of silver with sales of $ 3 million. Their biggest customer is
Marks & Spencer ($ 15 bn with 1300 Stores) who purchase their silver which is used in their
Freshfeet brand in socks. M&S freshfeet says “contains silver technology to help keep socks
fresh & odour Free”. Resil supply N9 Pure Silver Micro to M&S producers of socks. The
selling price of N9 is $ 100 per Litre (M&S likely to get discount). The N9 Pure Silver Micro is
0.4 % Metallic silver in 1.3 % polyvinyl pyrrolidine (a binder) and remaining 98% is water. It is
applied via the Dye Machine during manufacture. The dosage rate for N9 is 0.3 %, results in a
cost to treat of $ 0.3/kg. Resil say N9 Pure Silver Micro is also approved by Walmart and used
by Wrangler Jeans.

CHAPTER 16 35 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES

5.1.1 Silver Suppliers (From Mine to End-User)


Silver has increased significantly over the past several years with an average annual growth
rate in excess of 10%. Silver has grown due to strong backing from the leading biocide
suppliers such as BASF, Sanitized, Thomson and also from the fact that medical
organisations such as the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) believe that silver is the most
effective agent in controlling MRSA and that existing organic antimicrobials may create new
bacterial strains that are more resistant to antibioctics. There are many steps in the supply of
silver to end-users. The first step are the producers who are mainly mining companies and
generally supply unformulated silver. The following are the main silver producers:

Alexco Resource Group www.alexcoresource.com produces silver in Canada

A-Mark Precious Metals www.amark.com Produce silver


Avino Silver mines (www.avino.com) produce silver

Asahi Refining (owns JM Silver Refining) www.asahiholdings.com Produce silver

Cia de Minas Buenaventura (www.buenaventura.com) is silver producer in Argentina


Coeur (www.coeur.com) is one of the largest silver producers

Comstock Mining www.comstockmining.com produces silver

Doduco (www.Doduco.net) produces silver


Dillongage www.dillongage.com Trader in silver

Elemetal www.elemetal.com melt, mint & sell silver

Endeavour Silver www.edrsilver.com produces silver in Mexico


Fresnillo (www.fresnilloplc.com) is one of the leading global producers of silver

Golden Minerals Company www.goldenminerals.com produces silver

Hecla Mining Co (www.hecla-mining.com)


Industrias Penoles (www.penoles.com.mx) is a leading producer of silver in Mexico

Istanbul Gold Refinery (www.igrglobal.com) is a silver producer in Turkey

Kodak (www.kodak) is a silver producer


Leachgarner (www.leachgarner.com) is a silver producer

Materion (www.materion.com) is a silver producer

Metalor (Metalor.com) is a silver producer


Mitsubishi Materials (www.mmc.co.jp)
CHAPTER 16 36 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES

Panamerican Silver (www.panamericansilver.com)

Republic Metals Corporation (www.republicmetalscorp.com) is a silver producer

Silver Towne (www.silvertowne.com) is a trader


Silver Wheaton (www.silverwheaton.com) is a trader

Sunshine Minting Inc (www.sunshinemint.com) is a big supplier

Sunshine Silver Mining & Refining (www.sunshinesilvermining.com) is a Silver producer


Tanaka Kikinzoku Kogyo KK (www.tanaka.co.jp) is a Japanese Silver producer

Valcambi (www.valcambi.com) is a Swiss producer of Silver

The above silver manufacturers supply unformulated silver direct to formulators who complete
the formulation and regulatory requirements. Alternatively they may supply unformulated
silver to Distributors for resale to formulators or in some instances, the large endusers such
as medical device companies, purchase silver direct and then may contract out all their
requirements to their raw material suppliers such as coatings / masterbatch suppliers.
Typically silver is sold per Ounce e.g. $ 16 per Troy Ounce. The formulation of the silver will
typically add a factor of 3 to the costs).

The formulated product e.g. silver sulphate is typically 2/3 silver and the rest is sulphate to
make the formulation. Another popular formulation is silver Nitrate with 60% active ingredient.
The leading formulators are as follows:

ABC Nanotech, Accepta, Acrymed (KCC), Addmaster, Advanced Nanoproducts, Agion,


Anovotek, Applied Nanoscience, BASF, Biocote, Bio-Gate, Byotrol, Cerion, Cimananotech,
Clariant, Daejung, Dow, Fuji Chemical (Bactekiller), Heiq, Huntsman, Ishizuka Glass, Kanebo,
Koa Glass, Life Materials, Microban, Milliken, NanoBiomatters, NanoHorizons, Noble
Materials (X-Static), Nolla, Penn Technology, Polygiene, Pure Bioscience, Resil, Roam
Chemie, Rudolf, Sangi, Sanitized, Sanosil, Sinanen, Steritouch, Sukgyung (Nanosilva), Tarn-
Pure is a big supplier of copper-silver ionisation as a biocide, Tevan, Thomson Research,
Toagosei, Trevira
Assuming silver is purchased at $ 16 per Troy Ounce, this would give a cost of $ 512 PER KG
(32 Troy Ounces) of pure silver or $ 1500 for formulated silver per kg (this would be silver
sulphate with 60% silver).

The above formulators would sell the silver formulation (e.g. 1 % a.i. formulation) with an
average cost of $ 100 per kg to the end-user (e.g. packaging producer purchasing silver or
woundcare producer purchasing silver). If the dosage was 0.3 %, this would work at $0.3 per
kg of packaging or woundcare product treated.

CHAPTER 16 37 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES

The above formulators will supply direct to large end-users and via distributors for smaller
end-users, the following are a sample of end-users:

Silver: 3M: Tegaderm Ag (Silver) Alginate Dressings

Beiersdorf Elastoplast Antibacterial Sensitive plasters have a woundpad containing antiseptic


silver to help prevent infections.
Convatec: Aquacel Ag, Ag Surgical

Derma Sciences: Algicell Calcium Alginate with Silver

Hollister: Restore Non-Adhesive Foam, Restore Wound Contact Layer with Silver
Johnson & Johnson: Actisorb Silver, Silvercel Medical

Covidien Kendall: AMD, Biatain (formerly Contreet), Colorplast, InterDry Ag Textile, SeaSorb
Ag Alginate

Medline: Arglaes Antimicrobial Barrier, Maxorb Extra, Optifoam Ag, SilvaSorb


Molnlycke Health Care: Mepilex Ag Foam, Melgisorb Ag

MPM Medical: SilverMed Silver Hydrogel

Smith & Nephew: Acticoat (nanosilver), Allevyn Ag, Biostep, Colactive AgAntibacterial
hydrocolloid and silver
Urgo supply Urgotul which has silvercontact layer, for non to low exuding wounds at risk of
infection

CHAPTER 16 38 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES

6 DISTRIBUTION
6.1 OVERVIEW OF DISTRIBUTION CHANNELS
The distribution route in percentage terms as demonstrated in the following table reflects the
sales of biocides to the final producer of antimicrobial treated products.

DISTRIBUTION OF BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES

Active Ingredient
(3) Manufacturer
(2)
(1)
(4)

Formulator Distributor M as t erb at ch P ro d uc er

Distributor

END- USER e.g textile product producer

Route 1 - 10 % of total sales


Route 2 - 40 % of total sales
Route 3 - 20 % of total sales
Route 4 - 30 % of total sales

Figure 1: Distribution of Biocides within the Textiles industry

Formulators are the most important route in the distribution chain with an estimated 40% of all
biocide sales to textile manufacturers going via this route. The leading formulators to the
textile industry are Aegis, AgIon, Anovotek, BioGate, Catomance, CTT Group, Cupron,
Halosource, Heiq Materials, International Biochemical, Microban, Milliken, NanoHorizons,
Nova Biogenetics, Sanitized, Schill & Seilaher, Thomson Research Associates, Sterling
Fibres and Vikon Chemical. Each one of the formulators supplies silver, triclosan and other
Antimicrobial formulations.

CHAPTER 16 39 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES

Distributors account for 30% of all biocide sales to textile manufacturers. Distributors include
the leading suppliers of textile auxiliaries such as BASF, Dystar, Huntsman and Pulcra
Chemicals. Distributors have achieved their high market penetration by selling a range of
textile additives and so will be making delivery to end-users. Biocides compared to many
other ingredients of a textile formulation, are expensive, toxic and used in small quantities. As
such, truckload quantities of biocides are rare. Most often purchases are made in drum
quantity, which allows the distributor to combine delivery with other products and so allow
them to be competitive.

Fibre masterbatch producers are an important channel in the distribution of biocides with a
combined 10% of all sales going via this route. The textiles masterbatch producers
incorporate the biocides into fibres and this treated fibre is sold to textile finishers where their
customers blend it with untreated fibres. Leading Masterbatch companies include Americhem,
Asota, Brilen, Dak, Foss, Lenzing, Montefibre, Olcese, Rhovyl, Sterling Fibres, Thai Acrylic
Fibre, Trevira and X-Static.

Biocide manufacturers supply 20% of all formulated biocides to end users. Traditionally
Biocide manufacturers did not supply direct but to formulators and distributors. In the last few
years, biocide manufacturers have started to offer their own formulations so as to maximise
earnings along the supply chain. BASF and Lonza are leading biocide manufacturers who
have been most proactive in moving up the value chain and supplying direct.

CHAPTER 16 40 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES

7 BIOCIDE FORMULATORS
MicrobanAegis is the single leading supplier of biocides used within Textiles with sales to the
final treater at $ 40 million. The sales of biocides at end-user level are illustrated in the
following table:.

Table 22: Biocide Sales at End User level


Supplier $ Million
AgIon 29
Catomance 2
Nova Biogenetics 2
K-Tech 4
MicrobanAegis 40
Microstop 3
Milliken 7
NanoHorizons 5
Resil 14
Sanitized 15
Schill & Seilacher 7
Thomson Research 10
Vanson Halosource 4
Other * 117
TOTAL 281

* Includes end-users who have backward integrated and small formulators such as Anovotek,
Bactiguard, BioGate, Cupron, Heiq Materials, Life, Polygiene, Quick Med, Rudolf. The single
largest companies in the ‘Other’ sector are companies which have backward integrated such
as Beiersdorf for Antimicrobial Bandages.

MicrobanAegis is the single leading supplier of formulated biocides to the textiles industry.
The company supplies silane quats, silver and triclosan with sales of $ 40 million. Silane
quats are supplied under license from Dow Corning antimicrobial technology.

The company supplies antimicrobial formulations direct and via masterbatch producers. All
users of Microban biocides, have the rights to use the Microban quality seal.

AgION Technologies is a specialist formulator of silver antimicrobials with sales of $29


million. AgIon has its developmental centre in Wakefield, MA and offices in Basel, Switzerland
and Sao Paulo, Brazil. AgION’s silver antimicrobial compound inhibits the growth of bacteria,
fungi, and yeasts that may cause odours, staining, discoloration and deterioration.

CHAPTER 16 41 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES

Catomance is based in the UK and is a formulator of textile and leather biocides. The
company has estimated sales of $2 million to the textiles industry. The company supplies
biocides for textile preservation under the Mystox tradename and is a preferred supplier to the
British Army. Catomance biocide formulations are based on OPP, Permethrin, Propiconazole
and TCMTB.

K-TECH India Pvt. Ltd. is a speciality chemicals manufacturer belonging to the K-Group of
companies and focuses on speciality additives for Textiles under the Textaux brand. The
company has estimated sales of $ 4 M.

Milliken has sales of $7 million for formulated biocides. The company is the sole agent for
Toagosei silver in America and Europe. Milliken is a leader in the production of fibres and so
is a leading consumer as well as supplier. Milliken has a specialist antimicrobial team and the
company sells directly and also via masterbatch producers such as Clariant. Milliken supplies
silver under the tradename of Alphasan which can be supplied in 2 formulations. AlphaSan
5000 is a 3.8% silver white powder with a recommended application rate of 1.0% in a variety
of fibres while AlphaSan 2000 is a 10% silver white powder. AlphaSan is a zirconium
phosphate-based ceramic ion-exchange resin containing silver. The silver ions are released
at a controlled rate at the surface, which is critical to avoiding the colour formation seen with
previous silver based products. Silver is safe for human contact and is effective against
microorganisms that cause odour and other aesthetic problems. Milliken believes that the
success of their silver in comparison to other biocide compounds is due to the high
temperature stability and low colour formation of silver based antimicrobial compounds.

The silver formulation supplied by Milliken is used in a wide range of uses such as blankets,
carpets, carpet underlay, curtains, mattress cover pads, cushion pads, pillow fibre fill, quilts,
sheets, towels, upholstery, wall cover fabrics and wiping cloth.

NanoHorizons is based in State College, PA. The company has sales of $5 million to the
textiles industry with SmartSilver antimicrobial technology. The company has patented
nanoscale silver to deliver permanent anti-odour / antimicrobial properties to natural and man-
made fabrics and fibres.

Resil has sales of $ 14 million to the Textiles industry mainly via its contract with Marks &
Spencer. Marks & Spencer ($ 15 bn with 1300 Stores) have introduced the Freshfeet brand in
socks & insoles for shoes. M&S freshfeet says “contains silver technology to help keep socks
fresh & odour Free”. Resil supply silver via N9 Pure Silver Micro. The selling price of N9 is $
100 per Litre (M&S likely to get discount). N9 Pure Silver Micro is 0.4 % Metallic silver in 1.3

CHAPTER 16 42 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES

% polyvinyl pyrrolidine (a binder) and remaining 98% is water. It is applied via the Dye
Machine during manufacture. The dosage rate for N9 is 0.3 %, results in a cost to treat of $
0.3/kg. According to M&S, biggest competitor is Febreze (Cyclodextrin).

Resil say N9 Pure Silver Micro is also approved by Walmart and used by Wrangler Jeans
istory of leadership in silicones and specialty materials.

Sanitized had estimated sales of $15 million for formulated Biocides. The company uses
Clariant as its sole distributor for biocide formulations which are based on OIT, permethrin,
silver and triclosan. Clariant Masterbatches is a major customer for Sanitized biocides
especially Sanitized MBE 99-58 which is 1% Ag in a glass ceramic matrix in polyethylene. 1%
of Sanitized MBE 99-58 is added to the total weight of the material to be protected. All users
of Sanitized biocides have the rights to use the Sanitized quality seal.

Thomson Research Associates (TRA) has formulated sales of $ 10 million. The company
supplies antimicrobial treatments for textiles under the Ultra-Fresh tradename. The Ultra-
Fresh products are marketed in all parts of the world through a network of exclusive
distributors. The focus of TRA is to provide science-based solutions to the problems caused
by the growth of bacteria, fungi, and dust mites. The Ultra-Fresh programme is supported by
the TRA chemistry and microbiology departments, staffed by well-qualified experts in this
specialized field. Thomson has an alliance with Huntsman who is their global distributor.

Schill & Seilacher is a German company with worldwide activities. The company has been
developing and producing finishes for all types of textiles in cotton, wool, silk, and in recent
decades for viscose, polyester, nylon, acrylic etc. Schill & Seilacher had estimated sales of $7
million to the textiles industry. The company mainly uses zinc pyrithione chemistry to provide
fungicides for civil and military tentage, awning and mattress ticking.

Other suppliers of formulations have sales of $ 1420 million and include:


Some large end-users purchase technical non regulated biocides direct from silver mines and
complete their own formulation / regulatory approval in house. Examples of such companies
include Beiersdorf who produce antimicrobial (silver) coated wound care products with their
own regulatory approval.

Nova Biogenetics (formerly Bioshield & International Biochemical Industries) created a


biocide derived from an original Dow Corning Corporation technology based on methanol.

CHAPTER 16 43 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES

The biocide is used as an odour eliminator and fabric refresher with sales estimated at $2
million.

In April 1999, the Company began shipping its OdorFree(TM) product, an odour eliminator
and fabric refresher, into its initial test markets within Texas. To date, the OdorFree(TM)
products are available in over 20,000 retail outlets throughout the United States.

The Company has also developed several international agreements that encompass licensing
agreements and highlight Nova Biogenetics's global presence. In Mexico, non-woven wiping
cloths produced by Milyon incorporate Nova Biogenetics's active agent to inhibit the growth of
bacteria and mould on the wet cloth used within household use.
In 2002, International Biochemical Industries signed an agreement with Apollo Chemical Corp
to distribute its patented antimicrobial products, AM500 and BST1860. Apollo Chemical is a
chemical sales company with over 30 years of experience in the textile industry.

Anovotek has estimated sales of $1 million for formulated biocides to the textiles industry.
The company supplies silver formulations under the tradename of Agiene and has appointed
Pulcra Chemicals as its exclusive distributor.

BioGate has estimated sales of $ 2 million for formulated biocides to the textiles industry. The
company supplies nano silver formulations and has appointed BASF as its exclusive
distributor.
Heiq Materials has estimated sales of $ 4 million for formulated biocides to the textiles
industry. The company supplies nano silver formulations under the tradename of HeiQ silver
AGS-20.

Polygiene is based in Sweden with sales of $ M and markets a range of silver formulations
for odour control and freshness technologies. Polygiene is a bluesign® approved odor-
control treatment that can be applied to a range of textiles and surfaces, from footwear and
apparel to helmets and bed linens. Polygiene’s silver-salt application is derived from recycled
content (silver mostly from recycled electronics) that blocks odor-causing bacteria from
settling onto the treated surface. The permanent treatment reduces the need for frequent
laundering, saving water and energy over the apparel’s life cycle.

Rudolf is based in Germany and markets a range of silver formulations under the tradename
of Silverplus which is the family brand for functional freshness. The brand comprises industrial
initial finishes with highly concentrated products as well as professional care products
including product formulations for home use.

CHAPTER 16 44 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES

In cooperation with leading manufacturers of sports articles, socks, bed linen, shirts and
underwear, SILVERPLUS® has been successfully introduced in the market. After completing
a licence agreement, the SILVERPLUS® brand is available free of charge to our industry
partners.

CHAPTER 16 45 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES

8 VALUE CHAIN ANALYSIS


Mark-up is the percentage difference between selling price and cost of purchasing the
Antimicrobials. The mark-up analysis in Figure 2 for antimicrobials in Textiles presents the
average mark-ups for antimicrobials along each level of the supply chain.
VALUE ADDED FOR BIOCIDES ALONG THE SUPPLY CHAIN

Active Manufacturer
Average Mark-Up 100 %

Masterbatch Formulator
Average Mark-Up 200 % Average Mark-Up 200 %

Distributor
Average Mark-Up 20 %

End-User

Figure 2: Average Mark-Ups for Biocides within the Textiles Industry

Biocide manufacturers, who do their own formulations, achieve an average 100% mark-up on
their sales of Antimicrobials. The higher level is achieved for healthcare Textiles and in
consumer markets.

Formulators purchase antimicrobial actives and they achieve an average mark-up of 200%
when they resell the antimicrobial formulation. Within formulators, the mark-ups differ
significantly depending on end-use. For preservation of Textiles, the mark-up tends to be 60%
whereas for some Textiles with Biologically Active Surfaces such as wound care, the mark-up
is in excess of 300%.

The mark-ups reflect the costs of the licensing, marketing, technical and regulatory support
which they provide. Some of the leading wound care manufacturers have joint ventures with
formulators who provide all their technical and regulatory expertise. In the last few years,
biocide manufacturers have started to offer their own formulations so as to maximise earnings
along the supply chain.

CHAPTER 16 46 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES

9 REGULATORY ANALYSIS
As antimicrobial agents kill or inhibit the growth of living organisms, their use is regulated.
They must be registered with regulatory bodies, and registration must be for specific uses
only, e.g. an antimicrobial approved only for use in socks should not be used to treat other
clothing items.

There are a number of bodies and agencies whose role is to assess the safety of
antimicrobial products and to clamp down on manufacturers who make excessive claims
about their products. For manufacturers of antimicrobial products, the costs of complying with
such regulations are significant and rising.
In the USA, antimicrobial products designed for human use have been regulated for many
years by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA will only approve products
that have been shown to be non-toxic and non-hazardous to the environment. To obtain EPA
registration antimicrobial products must undergo a range of safety and efficacy tests,
including dermatological tests to assess whether irritation to the skin is produced.

The EPA prevents manufacturers of garments that have been treated with antimicrobials from
claiming that their products protect the wearer in any way. Errant claims may result in
substantial fines.

9.1.1 European Biocides Products Regulation


In Europe, the regulations governing the use of Biocides are via the Biocides Products
Regulation (BPR) which is managed by ECHA. A Biocidal Products Committee, consisting of
representatives from each of the EU Member States will give its opinion on Biocidal products,
supported by technical and scientific support from ECHA. A Biocidal product cannot be
supplied on the EU market after 1st September 2015 unless the Biocide is included in the
Article 95 list of the approved Biocides. See the list on http://echa.europa.eu/information-on-
chemicals/active-substance-suppliers
Biocides used in Textiles are examined in Product Type 9 of the BPR which governs the use
of biocides in Fibre, Leather, Rubber and Polymerized materials.

The BPR states that biocides in Product Type 9 are products used for the preservation of
fibrous or polymerized materials, such as leather, rubber or paper or textile products by the
control of microbiological deterioration.

CHAPTER 16 47 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES

9.1.2 CE Mark
The CE marking is mandatory for certain product groups in the European Economic Area
(EEA), consisting of the 27 Member States of the EU and EFTA countries which included
Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein. It is also obligatory for all products made in third countries
(non-member states) which are sold in the EEA. In that case, the importer has to make sure
that the manufacturer outside the EU has taken the necessary steps that allow her to affix the
CE marking. The documentation has to be made available to authorities on request.

Most hygienic type products are subject to certain EC directives which means that they must
be affixed with the CE marking before they can be placed on the market.
By affixing the CE marking on a product, a manufacturer is conforming to all of the legal
requirements to achieve CE marking and therefore ensuring validity for that product to be sold
throughout the European Economic Area. CE marking does not indicate that a product was
made in the EEA, but merely states that the product is assessed before being placed on the
market and thus satisfies the legislative requirements (e.g. a harmonised level of safety) to be
sold there.

It means that the manufacturer has verified that the product complies with all relevant
“essential requirements” (e.g. safety, health, environmental protection requirements) of the
applicable directive(s) – or, if stipulated in the directive(s), had it examined by a notified
conformity assessment body. CE marked products are bought not only by professionals (e.g.
medical dressings) but also by consumers (e.g. bandages).

For the rest of world, countries have their own regulations governing the use of biocides or
rely on the biocides to have EPA approval.

CHAPTER 16 48 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES

10 TRENDS
In broad terms, the ideal Antimicrobial would comprise the following main features:

• Broad spectrum antibacterial and antifungal activity


• Broad regulatory approvals

• Cost effective

• Is heat stable
• Compatibility with materials and fibres used in textile production

• Non toxic

• Not skin sensitiser


• Available as a liquid

• Does not discolour

• 50 strong wash durability


• Approval by independent organisation such as Woolmark or Oko-tex

1. Companies who treat textiles with antimicrobials are facing stricter


environmental guidelines concerning the handling and disposal of toxic
materials.There is a move away from tin based antimicrobials to more softer
antimicrobials such as diiodomethyl-p-tolysulfone, phenolics, quaternary
ammonium compounds, OIT, silver, tolnaftate, triclosan, PHMB, zinc pyrithione.
This is due to the toxicity / environmental unacceptability of the tin based
antimicrobials.

2. The application of antimicrobials in textiles is moving from finishing stage to


processing or spinning stage. The main disadvantage of applying antimicrobials
during spinning stage is the active may be lost within the processing e.g.
organic biocides are instable to high temperatures.
3. There will be a growing market for antimicrobials as manufacturers overcome
the current constraints of existing products. For example, very little polyester is
treated with antimicrobials due to the high processing temperatures which
render antimicrobials inactive. This market will become available as the
antimicrobials are formulated to remain active after high temperature
processing. Currently the silver inorganic compounds are much more
temperature stable than organic compounds.

CHAPTER 16 49 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES

4. There will be a continual movement of the biocide treated textile industry to


Asia. This trend which already has seen apparel and bedding products move to
Asia but in future, industrial textiles (e.g. filtration) is expected to move there.

5. Large retailers are playing an increasing role in biocide treated textiles and are
the main competitors of branded products by developing their own range of
Bioactive products.

6. For textiles and bed linen applications, the use of antimicrobials must be
compatible with typical laundering practices which: use anionic detergents and
bleaches, have high processing temperatures, require biodegradable
antimicrobials, require a comprehensive risk assessment.
7. The opportunities for new antimicrobials in the textile industry are limited due to
the high costs of product development and relatively small potential end
markets. New products introduced will be existing antimicrobials with label
extensions. One exception was UMF who in 2010, they introduced Micrillon®
rechargeable antimicrobial polymer chemistry for applications such as wipes
and other textile products that are used in healthcare environments to help
eliminate healthcare-associated infections. UMF has an exclusive license to use
the patented technology, which was developed at the University of Texas.
According to George Clarke, UMF's CEO and founder, the technology is
embedded in microdenier man-made fibers rather than applied to the material
as a finish. The rechargeable antimicrobial polymer chemistry is recharged
during laundering with chlorine bleach. "We put the additive in at the raw
material stage of fiber production, and because it is embedded, it can't leach or
come out," Clarke said. "During laundering, the chemistry attracts chlorine
molecules in the wash water and binds them to the fiber surface. The amount of
chlorine bound is extraordinarily high, but there's no chlorine smell," he added,
noting that the microdenier fiber provides an "enormous surface area that
enables huge volumes of chlorine to be absorbed." Testing also has shown that
the H1N1 influenza virus, athlete's foot fungus and other microbes are
eliminated in less than five minutes, with an ultimate elimination rate of up to
99.999 percent of pathogens. UMF’s technology is similar to Halosource. On
February 29, 2008, EPA registered five copper-containing alloy products. The
registration allows the registrant, the Copper Development Association (CDA) to
market these products with a claim that copper, when used in accordance with
the label, “kills 99.9% of bacteria within two hours.” These products will be
marketed in sheets that can be fabricated into various articles such as door
knobs, counter tops, hand rails, I.V. (intravenous) poles, and other objects found
CHAPTER 16 50 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES

in commercial, residential, and healthcare settings. The registered copper alloy


may be used as a supplement to – not a substitute for – standard infection
control practices. The Copper Development Association (CDA) will prepare and
implement an Antimicrobial Copper Alloy Stewardship Plan designed to support
the responsible use of antimicrobial copper products. Cupron has been the most
proactive in promoting copper formulations to the Textiles industry. Another new
technology company is LAAMScience which is unveiling Serqet, a light activated
antibacterial and antiviral coating technology that can be applied to wovens,
nonwovens, natural and synthetic fabrics and a variety of polymers. Serqet
technology was licensed from North Carolina State University (NCSU). The
technology produces singlet oxygen, a broad spectrum antibacterial and
antiviral agent that is generated when exposed to visible light. Current
applications include N95 respirator masks, surgical masks and semi-disposable
cleaning wipes, such as kitchen wipes and dishwashing towels. “As light hits the
surface, the oxygen in the air changes into singlet oxygen and then back to
regular oxygen. The energy of light changes oxygen to singlet oxygen, which is
very reactive. Singlet oxygen inactivates or eliminates viruses and does not
allow any odor or bacteria to grow.

8. General feeling is that hygiene awareness is growing among consumers


throughout the globe and they are purchasing textiles which are treated with
antimicrobials (Bacteriostats). Ordinary household textile products are been
turned into advanced products that offer greater hygiene levels. Manufacturers
and retailers are also keen to focus on the hygiene benefits of textiles treated
with an antimicrobial active as they are higher margin items. Textiles treated
with an antimicrobial, are marketed using an antimicrobial label and are
positioned as value added products that are priced at least 10% higher than
conventional products. Antimicrobial label claims are being used to address the
widespread consumer concerns regarding microbial growth. In the treated
products, the function of the biocide is to control microorganisms on the surface
of the product, rather than to protect the product from degradation, staining or
spoiling. The labelling description is important and words such as “kill
microorganisms” cannot be used as this will require registration of the treated
product which most producers are not prepared to provide. Some of the higher
value sectors include woundcare products such as bandages. In this situation, it
is common for the large woundcare suppliers to partner with specialist
antimicrobial technology companies so as to create specialist centes of

CHAPTER 16 51 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES

excellence on formulation and regulation governing antimicrobials. Examples


include Quick Med and Biosara.

9. There is a growing market for antimicrobial agents where antiallergy claims are
being made. These claims are based upon the ability of fungicides / insecticides
to control the number of dustmites that live within the textile environment. It is
the dustmite that is the main source of the allergen DerP1 that is known to
trigger Asthma in people. A new survey conducted by the National Pest
Management Association and the University of Kentucky proves that there is a
resurgence of bed bug infestations. According to the survey, 95 percent of
respondents indicate that their pest management company has handled a bed
bug problem in the past year. Prior to 2000, only 25 percent of respondents
encountered bed bugs. “The results of the ‘2010 Comprehensive Global Bed
Bug Study’ suggest that we are on the threshold of a bed bug pandemic, not just
in the United States, but around the world,” says Missy Henriksen, vice
president of public affairs for NPMA, in a news release. In the U.S., bed bugs
are not just infesting homes and apartments, they’re also in hotels, college
dormitories, retail stores, office buildings, places of worship, hospitals, daycares,
libraries and movie theaters. Bed bugs can be easy to spot: they are the size
and color of an apple seed.

10. There is a growing remedial market for textiles. The remedial market purchases
biocides for remedial treatment and is a popular route for Insecticides in Asian
countries. The majority of purchases by this sector are via DIY units, retailers,
PCO's (Pest Control Operators), Remedial operators such as CIA (Certified
Indoor Air) Corporation and specialist cleaning contractors such as Ecolab,
Rentokil.

CHAPTER 16 52 www.biocide-information.com
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES

11 FUTURE
The consumption of biocides in Textiles is forecasted to increase 3% per year as outlined in
the following table.

Table 23: Projected Sales of Biocides in Textiles


YEAR SALES ($M)
2018 331.3
2019 341.6
2020 352.1
2021 362.2

Biocides used in textiles will grow from $ 331.3 million to $ 362 million at manufacture level in
2021. The following factors will affect future consumption of biocides used in textiles.

11.1.1 Market
The textiles market will continue to grow due to increased hygiene awareness by end-users,
strong promotional support from influential groups and the trade up to more high value
products. The market will become more regulated with impending regulations from the BPD
and EPA. This will have a positive influence on the market for biocides as it will result in the
removal of poorly performing treated products.

11.1.2 Biocides
The use of non tin based biocides will continue to grow which will benefit all speciality
biocides especially fungicides. The biocide showing most growth within textiles is silver
especially nano silver formulations.

11.1.3 Geographical Regions


The use of biocides will show the most growth in developing regions of the World due to the
movement of the Textile industry from North America and Western Europe.

CHAPTER 16 53 www.biocide-information.com

You might also like