Innovative Coatings for Carpets, Curtains and Upholstery Fabrics

Innovative and sustainable coatings as a key priority

At Heimtextil, it becomes clear that sustainability is no longer a trend, but a standard expectation. Finipur is actively responding to this by continuously investing in the development of innovative and environmentally friendly coatings. Examples of this include:

Halogen-free coatings

Halogen-free coatings are becoming increasingly important due to increasingly stringent European regulations on chemical substances. Within REACH legislation, the so-called SVHC list (Substances of Very High Concern) is regularly expanded. Substances that end up on this list are identified as potentially harmful to humans and the environment and may be further restricted or banned in the future. For textile and coating manufacturers, this means that transparency and proactive action are essential.

Finipur strives to communicate completely transparently about the chemicals used in its treatment processes, in full compliance with the European REACH regulation. Recently, a flame retardant, namely DBDPE (decabromodiphenylethane), was added by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) to the Candidate List of Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC).

What does this mean for Finipur's customers ?

In accordance with Article 33 of the REACH Regulation, Finipur has a legal obligation to inform customers about the presence of an SVHC substance if it is present in a concentration of more than 0.1% (w/w) in the final article.

Since the final concentration of this substance in the finished product depends on the specific design, the quantities used and further processing steps by the customer, it is important that each customer evaluates whether the SVHC substance in their own end product exceeds this threshold value.

If this evaluation shows that the SVHC substance is present in the end product in a concentration > 0.1% (g/g), then as a supplier of the textile you have the following legal obligations:

1. Inform your own customers about the presence of this substance.
2. Inform consumers, upon request, about the presence and safe use of the product.

These regulations emphasise the importance of traceability and clear communication throughout the entire chain. At the same time, they encourage the market to invest further in halogen-free and alternative fire retardant systems that are not subject to these restrictions.

OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 also plays an important role. This certification checks textile products and their components for a wide range of harmful substances and is updated annually. By developing coatings that meet both REACH and OEKO-TEX criteria, Finipur helps customers keep their products future-proof, safe and compliant with market requirements.

Fluorine-free coatings

Fluorine-free coatings are also a clear growth trend within home textiles. Traditional fluorine-based chemicals, often linked to PFAS substances, have been used for years to create water- and dirt-repellent properties. However, due to increasing concerns about persistence in the environment and possible health risks, the market is rapidly shifting towards fluorine-free alternatives.

Fluorine-free coatings use innovative polymers and other technologies that deliver similar performance without the disadvantages of traditional fluorine chemistry. They are also more in line with international certifications such as OEKO-TEX® and future European regulations. For brands and manufacturers, this means combining sustainable functionality with a strong ecological and legal narrative.

Recyclable coatings

Water-based coatings