In a groundbreaking collaboration, Archroma, a global leader in color and specialty chemicals, has joined forces with Somelos, a pioneering vertically integrated textile group based in Portugal, to usher in a new era of sustainable cotton processing. Together, they have developed an innovative water-saving dyeing and finishing process that promises to transform the industry while addressing the urgent need to conserve water resources.
Traditionally, conventional cotton dyeing and finishing methods have relied heavily on copious amounts of water and chemicals, resulting in substantial wastewater generation. Such practices not only strain the environment but pose a significant challenge for nations grappling with drought and water scarcity, such as Portugal.
Enter the game-changing Dry Dyeing/Ox finishing process—a brainchild of Archroma and Somelos. This revolutionary technique, primarily designed for producing bottoms and shirting in cotton fabrics, utilizes Archroma’s Pad-Ox dyeing process. By combining oxidation and fixation in a single step and leveraging cutting-edge technologies like ozone and laser treatments for washdown effects, this process achieves water savings of up to a staggering 97% when compared to conventional methods.
Unlike its water-intensive counterparts, the Dry Dyeing/Ox finishing process employs water solely for the preparation of dye and oxidation baths. Thanks to Archroma’s Diresul RDT liquid pre-reduced sulphur dyes, which facilitate easy washdown and direct fixation without the need for pre-washing, the entire process boasts shorter processing times, cleaner production, and remarkable wash-fastness.
Sofia Vale, R&D Manager at Somelos, expressed her enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “At Somelos, we have made significant investments over the years to achieve eco-friendly production and a zero-carbon footprint. From our self-owned solar energy park to wastewater treatment and reuse, sustainability is at the core of our operations. We are thrilled to partner with Archroma as we prioritize water savings with our new cotton dyeing and finishing process.”
This cutting-edge technology not only addresses the environmental concerns associated with traditional dyeing methods but also holds tremendous potential for countries and regions grappling with water scarcity. By drastically reducing water consumption and wastewater generation, the Dry Dyeing/Ox finishing process paves the way for a more sustainable future in the textile industry.
The partnership between Archroma and Somelos exemplifies the power of collaboration and innovation to drive positive change. As the demand for eco-friendly practices continues to surge, their breakthrough water-saving technology sets a remarkable precedent for the global textile sector. By championing sustainable solutions, Archroma and Somelos are leading the charge toward a greener, more responsible industry—one where resource efficiency and environmental stewardship go hand in hand.
The unveiling of the Dry Dyeing/Ox finishing process marks a turning point in cotton processing, promising a brighter and more sustainable future for textile production worldwide. With this pioneering solution, Archroma and Somelos have made a resounding statement that eco-consciousness and innovation are not only compatible but vital in shaping a more sustainable planet for generations to come.