Global chemical company Huntsman has obtained bluesign® approval for ten of its IROGRAN® thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) products, widely utilized in the textile and apparel industry. These endorsed materials belong to Huntsman’s IROGRAN® film and sheet portfolio, aiming to enhance the manufacturing, performance, and comfort of seam-free garments like underwear, sportswear, and outdoor waterproof clothing.

bluesign® is globally recognized as a leading provider of sustainability solutions, ensuring that environmentally sound practices and products are implemented throughout the textile value chain. Products and materials bearing the bluesign® APPROVED label are verified to meet rigorous ecological and toxicological standards outlined in the bluesign® CRITERIA. For textile and apparel manufacturers, this third-party endorsement can substantially streamline the process of researching products and testing samples to verify their environmental credentials, thereby saving time and costs.

The bluesign® APPROVED IROGRAN® products are tailored to assist textile and apparel manufacturers in producing practical, comfortable, and stylish stitchless and waterproof garments. IROGRAN® TPUs developed for barrier and adhesive film applications integrate abrasion and friction resistance with elasticity and a soft touch. They provide strength and temperature flexibility, ensuring a seamless finish capable of delivering high performance.

The approved IROGRAN® products, such as PS443-204, PS455-218, PS370-206, A 95 P 5044 H UV, CA116-206, PS455-203, A 80 P 5039, CA117-200, A 92 E 4860, and PS456-206, represent a versatile range tailored for various applications in the textile and apparel industry.

Dr. Anja Weismann, Global Materials & Industry Sustainability Senior Lead at Huntsman Polyurethanes, emphasized the significance of bluesign® as a mark of quality that is actively transforming the environmental footprint of textiles worldwide. She highlighted bluesign®'s global recognition as a symbol of trust and transparency. Dr. Weismann expressed delight in Huntsman's polyurethanes business achieving bluesign® approval for multiple products, further solidifying their role as a bluesign® SYSTEM PARTNER. Huntsman has long prioritized responsible and sustainable manufacturing practices across all its markets. Their collaboration with bluesign® underscores their commitment to producing polyurethane and TPU products with minimal impact on both people and the environment.

Michael Sabo, Head of Chemical Services at bluesign®, highlighted bluesign®'s role as a highly regarded provider of sustainability solutions for chemical companies, brands, and their supply chain collaborators worldwide. He emphasized bluesign®'s rigorous on-site evaluations of chemical manufacturers, focusing on the efficacy of their product stewardship systems and conducting thorough assessments to verify the sustainability and safety of their chemical products. Sabo noted that Huntsman, a trusted bluesign® SYSTEM PARTNER with a strong reputation, has met these stringent criteria, leading to the certification of its IROGRAN® TPU products, a development met with satisfaction.

Huntsman is actively expanding its engagement with bluesign® by pursuing additional qualifications for textile and apparel applications.

In 2022, Huntsman Polyurethanes attained bluesign® SYSTEM PARTNER status following rigorous assessments of its facilities and manufacturing processes. This designation signifies Huntsman's responsible use of resources, ongoing commitment to enhancing environmental performance, and adherence to the highest safety standards for people and the environment. To earn bluesign® SYSTEM PARTNER recognition, Huntsman Polyurethanes underwent extensive audits to demonstrate that product stewardship is integral to its business practices, with robust processes in place to ensure compliance with safety measures throughout its operations.