A fast-growing market requires fast-moving innovation. Dow’s relentless pursuit of innovation is advancing design and durability of athletic apparel.
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Apparel
Shaping the next generation of athletic apparel
Dow’s relentless pursuit of innovation is advancing design and durability of athletic apparel.
How are we shaping the next generation of athletic apparel?
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SILICONE INK
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DURABLE WATER REPELLENT
Prints that last
Silicone printing inks can change the game, enabling screen printers and apparel manufacturers to produce durable, high-quality and wash-resistant prints on shirts, jerseys, shorts, leggings and beyond. Learn how Dow is advancing textile printing inks to enable safer textile screen printing formulations and keep apparel wearable for longer.
The challenge
Most athletic apparel is made from lightweight synthetic fibers like nylon and polyester, with spandex. Why? Because consumers want fit, comfort and long-lasting shape, and modern fabrics that are breathable and durable. However historically, if these garments contain screen printed elements – as many do – they don’t maintain their look and feel after extended wear and washing. The challenge? In short, the growth of these materials in apparel has intensified performance requirements for printing inks.
The breakthrough in athletic wear
Designing high performance sportswear doesn’t have to mean compromising on style or safety. Silicone printing inks can enable screen printers and apparel manufacturers to produce durable, high-quality and wash-resistant prints on shirts, jerseys, shorts and leggings made with a wide range of fabrics. With outstanding wash durability, elongation, and an soft touch, this breakthrough SILASTIC™ LCF 9600 M Textile Printing Ink Base means brands can make bold designs that stand the test of time. No more tacky-feel or "orange peel effect" on cotton substrates – just smooth, vibrant ink.
The challenge
The reality is that many consumers likely only have two or three sets of workout clothes and if they work out multiple times a week, that’s a lot of wear and washing. The same goes for professional athletes. By using silicone ink, apparel owners can help slow down the cycle of fashion. Historically, PVC resins and plasticizer-based systems in inks have been used to achieve this durability. Today, skin-contact suitability and environmental impact are continuously looked at for improvement. Engineered for increased matte effect, Dow’s silicone ink base solution enables safer textile development with its ability to be formulated without PVC, phthalates, solvents, organo-tins or formaldehydes.
Dow scientists continue to research solutions to further advance safer sportswear. Silicone ink - innovation doesn’t rest a day.
Adding a hybrid emulsion silicone binder to the ink base enables a waterborne alternative to conventional textile printing inks for both synthetic and cotton fabrics. For manufacturers, that means controlled processing costs and greater versatility. For lovers of streetwear and sportswear alike, that means soft apparel with bright colors that don’t crack, fade or run.
Have an idea?
Game-changing products require game-changing teamwork. Collaborating with Dow on performance apparel isn’t just about connecting with materials science experts, it’s about forging a partnership that inspires, unlocks the magic of materials and designs a better, more sustainable future.