Developed proprietary RLR technology that protects clothing from washing-related deterioration and extends its life while preserving its fabric hand. The technology is expected to reduce the frequency of clothing replacement in the linen supply and fashion rental sectors and contribute to resource circulation.
ナガセケムテックス announced that it had developed proprietary Rubber-Like Resin (RLR) technology that suppresses washing-related deterioration of clothing and extends its life without compromising its fabric hand. The company is conducting verification toward commercialization, with applications envisaged in the linen supply, uniform rental and fashion rental sectors.
RLR is a coating technology that forms a water-based emulsion coating on the surface of fibers, achieving both durability and fabric hand. A distinguishing feature is that processing is completed simply by adding the specified amount during the final rinsing cycle using existing industrial laundry equipment. Test results also reported that the technology suppresses pilling and can reduce fiber shedding during washing by approximately 93% compared with untreated products.
In addition to being expected to suppress microplastic discharge, the coating can be removed through a specific treatment, making it easy to disassemble and reducing obstacles to recycling. The company is currently conducting demonstration evaluations in related industries to verify the life-extension effect and operational effectiveness.
The company plans to expand applications to uniforms and linens for the hotel, medical and service industries. Through participation in the Ministry of the Environment’s Sustainable Fashion Partner program, it aims to contribute to building a resource-circulating society.