Outlast Technologies, a market leader for temperature regulating phase change materials (PCMs), will present the complete PCM spectrum for more transparency at the upcoming Techtextil trade fair for technical textiles and nonwovens that takes place from 4-7 May in Frankfurt.

Outlast is best known for its presence in the bedding industry (PCMs for mattresses, duvets, mattress protectors/toppers, pillows, and more), but is also very active in the apparel (outdoor, sportswear, underwear, protective wear), footwear (shoes, socks, insoles), and accessory industry.

But Outlast has also devoted a lot of time researching new markets where the technology can be utilized – the newest development being in the electronics industry.

Developments

According to the company, Outlast is the only supplier in the textile industry able to offer various PCM possibilities.

In the past years, the company released the PCM viscose fibre, following the development of the first PCM polyester fibre. This presented a new opportunity for filling materials, which are mostly used for bedding, but can also be utilized for apparel.

Applications

PCMs can be structured in the following categories:

• Outlast technology in fibres: This application is suited for products being worn next to skin, such as underwear, socks, t-shirts, orthopaedic products, and more.
• Outlast technology in filling materials: There are different Outlast filling materials, based on viscose or polyester fibres, which can be used for bedding or apparel.
• Outlast technology as coating: Nonwovens or knits serve as raw materials which are coated. The applications are wide and include bedding mattresses and mattress protectors, pillows and duvets. Coated products are used for apparel/footwear and PPE from head to toe.
• Outlast technology as MIC: An advanced formulation of Outlast PCM is finely printed onto flat fabric. This process is ideal for brands seeking a larger volume programme using their own fabrics.
• Outlast MIC is intended for products worn next to skin and is designed for the active, casual and sportswear markets.
• Outlast technology as compound: Here the company focuses on individual solutions for projects. The matching Outlast compound can be used if a customer already has special process technology available. The customer then produces his end product.

Outlast technology

Outlast technology was originally developed for NASA to protect astronauts from temperature fluctuations in space.

Outlast technology utilizes phase change materials (PCM) that absorb, store and release heat for optimal thermal comfort. The PCMs have the capacity to absorb, store and release excess heat. This gives any product containing Outlast technology the ability to continually regulate the skin’s microclimate. As the skin gets hot, the heat is absorbed, and as it cools, that heat is released.

www.outlast.com