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Biocides in Textiles 2017: Prepared By: Biocide Information Limited Email
Biocides in Textiles 2017: Prepared By: Biocide Information Limited Email
BIOCIDES IN TEXTILES
2017
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.2 METHODOLOGY....................................................................................................................................................5
1.4 DEFINITIONS...........................................................................................................................................................5
3.4 PRICING..................................................................................................................................................................22
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6 DISTRIBUTION ...............................................................................................................39
6.1 OVERVIEW OF DISTRIBUTION CHANNELS ................................................................................................39
10 TRENDS ......................................................................................................................49
11 FUTURE ......................................................................................................................53
11.1.1 Market..............................................................................................................................................................53
11.1.2 Biocides ...........................................................................................................................................................53
11.1.3 Geographical Regions......................................................................................................................................53
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2. To identify and analyse the trends taking place within the biocides 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.
1.4 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.
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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:
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.
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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
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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.
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The leading segments for Biocides are Healthcare. The following table segments the market
by end-use:
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:
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In addition, countries within Asia Pacific treats a lot of Textiles with anti-microbials for supply
back to Countries within America and Europe.
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fibres)
Trevira Bioactive antimicrobial fabric Silver
Waxman ‘So’ range of antibacterial Silver
Viscose
Wecovi Cleaning products Quats
Westex Carpets Carpets Ultra-fresh
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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:
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.
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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
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.
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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.
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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.
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.
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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
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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
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3.4 PRICING
The prices of biocides are governed by;
(5) Licensing
(6) Technical 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.
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.
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An effective antimicrobial must not only prevent the growth of micro-organisms, it should also
exhibit the following:
(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.
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4 BIOCIDE CONSUMPTION
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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.
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Smaller producers include generic producers such as Medichem and Evonik (formerly
Degussa).
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,
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Lonza and API. The product is the main biocide supplied by Schill & Seilacher, the German
textile formulator.
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.
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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.
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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.
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5 BIOCIDE MANUFACTURERS
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.
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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
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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.
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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:
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.
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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:
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
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
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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.
Active Ingredient
(3) Manufacturer
(2)
(1)
(4)
Distributor
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.
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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.
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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:.
* 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.
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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
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% 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.
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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.
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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.
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Active Manufacturer
Average Mark-Up 100 %
Masterbatch Formulator
Average Mark-Up 200 % Average Mark-Up 200 %
Distributor
Average Mark-Up 20 %
End-User
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.
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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.
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.
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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.
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10 TRENDS
In broad terms, the ideal Antimicrobial would comprise the following main features:
• Cost effective
• Is heat stable
• Compatibility with materials and fibres used in textile production
• Non toxic
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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
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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.
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11 FUTURE
The consumption of biocides in Textiles is forecasted to increase 3% per year as outlined in
the following table.
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.
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