Tokyo, Japan (December 15, 2020) – As consumers search for products to help safeguard themselves from pathogens, apparel brands are starting to incorporate specially treated antiviral and antimicrobial fabrics in their designs. To help address the needs of brands, YKK has developed a line of zippers with tape treated with ViralOff®, a technology patented by the Swedish company Polygiene.
ViralOff® is an antimicrobial finish that eliminates 99% of viruses on textiles in about two hours. Durable and long lasting, ViralOff®'s chemical components are eco-sustainable and safe for contact on human skin. YKK's ViralOff® treated zipper is manufactured and sold by YKK ITALIA SPA.
Always faithful to the YKK philosophy of the "Cycle of Goodness," which places corporate responsibility, transparency, and respect for others at the center of every business decision, YKK is now focused on what even a detail such as the zipper can offer to counter the spread of pathogens.
"This zipper really underscores the tagline in our Fastening Group logo, "Little Parts, Big Difference," says Enrico Degara, Chief Sustainability Officer of YKK ITALIA SPA. "It may be a small detail, but an important one."
Polygiene's expertise in protective textile technology got its start during the fight against SARS in 2004. The knowledge gained from that experience gave them the methods and processes needed to quickly develop ViralOff® in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic. The ViralOff® fabric treatment is used on a wide range of applications such as medical equipment, medical scrubs, face masks, and gloves, as well as a variety of consumer products.
"While we never make any claims beyond protecting the product itself, it goes without saying that a reduction of viruses on often touched parts, like a zipper, is a good thing. We see a big demand building, and this launch with YKK will raise awareness on this kind of product even more," says Haymo Strubel, Commercial Director at Polygiene.
