Firefighters are the unsung heroes of our communities, putting their lives on the line to protect people and property. Their gear is not just clothing; it’s a lifeline, providing the critical protection they need to safely perform their duties. But as we continue to advance in material science, a pressing challenge has emerged: the presence of harmful PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in traditional firefighter gear coatings.
At Impermea Materials, we’ve reimagined the standards for safety and performance with our OLEO-TEX + FR 1120. This groundbreaking, PFAS-free coating innovation is a leap forward in the fight against chemical hazards while maintaining top-tier protection for those who protect us.
The Problem: PFAS in Firefighter Gear
PFAS, sometimes called "forever chemicals," are commonly found in coatings for firefighter turnout gear due to their water- and oil-repellent properties. However, these substances pose significant health and environmental risks:
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Health Concerns: Long-term exposure has been linked to cancer, hormone disruption, and fertility issues.
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Environmental Impact: PFAS persist in the environment, contaminating water supplies and ecosystems.
While these chemicals have been a standard in protective gear for decades, it’s time for a safer alternative.
Enter OLEO-TEX + FR 1120: Safety Without Compromise
Impermea Materials developed OLEO-TEX + FR 1120 to address this critical issue, creating a fluorine-free, PFAS-free coating that prioritizes firefighter health and safety without sacrificing performance.
Key Features and Benefits:
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PFAS-Free and Non-Toxic:
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Completely free of harmful fluorochemicals.
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Reduces health risks associated with chemical exposure, safeguarding both firefighters and the environment.
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Flame Retardant Finish:
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Adds a vital layer of protection to turnout gear, slowing the spread of fire and reducing burn risks.
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Exceptional Oil and Water Repellency:
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Ensures that hazardous liquids don’t saturate the gear, maintaining its protective qualities in the most dangerous environments.
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Breathable and Durable:
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Combines flexibility and comfort with the rugged durability needed for high-stress situations.
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Versatile Application:
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Suitable for a variety of textiles including cotton, polyester, nylon, and more, making it adaptable for turnout gear, undergarments, and other firefighter apparel.
Why OLEO-TEX + FR 1120 Matters
Firefighters already face countless hazards on the job; their gear shouldn’t be one of them. With growing regulatory pressure to phase out PFAS in protective clothing, the need for innovative, compliant solutions has never been greater. OLEO-TEX + FR 1120 meets this challenge head-on by:
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Eliminating toxic chemicals.
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Complying with future-forward regulations.
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Supporting sustainability goals without compromising safety or performance.
Beyond Firefighter Gear: A Broader Vision for Sustainability
Impermea Materials doesn’t stop at firefighting. The OLEO-TEX + FR 1120 formula has been applied across various industries, from automotive interiors to textiles. This versatility underscores our commitment to pioneering sustainable, high-performance solutions that work for people and the planet.
Join the Movement for Safer, Smarter Solutions
At Impermea Materials, we believe innovation can save lives and protect the environment simultaneously. OLEO-TEX + FR 1120 is more than just a coating; it’s a commitment to the safety of our heroes and a step toward a healthier, more sustainable world.
Let’s protect those who protect us. Contact us today to learn more about OLEO-TEX + FR 1120 and our cutting-edge solutions for protective gear and beyond.
Impermea Materials, is an advanced materials company based in Massachusetts that synthesizes and manufactures the highest-performing barrier solutions, which are PFAS-free and plastic-free. Our paper & paperboard packaging product line allows customers to unlock repulpable, recyclable, compostable, and PFAS-free product innovation. We offer customizable oil & grease resistant (OGR), moisture/water vapor transmission barrier (MVTR), fan-apart adhesives, and release coatings enabling customers to win new business and gain additional market share. Our products replace existing coatings that do not allow materials like paper to replace plastic due to a lack of performance. Traditional solutions in the market are facing regulatory action due to PFAS, Plastic, or other less sustainable materials. Our solutions provide an offering that genuinely outperforms legacy technologies without sacrificing the sustainability you need.
