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Modern textile manufacturers have begun to incorporate advanced materials into their fabrics. American Elements has met the challenge producing several products that assist in the anti-wetting and anti-microbial capabilities of garments.

In 2010, we launched S-Mite™, a dispersable anti-microbial nanoscale silver oxide powder that has been tested and used by such companies as Eddie Bauer and W.L. Gore, makers of patented Gortex™ fabrics.

Question? Speak to an American Elements engineer at textiles@americanelements.com

Innovation Case Study #20: American Elements Creates and Launches Anti-Microbial Nanopowder for Use in Textiles
#20: American Elements Creates and Launches Anti-Microbial Nanopowder for Use in Textiles
The Challenge
In 2004, W.L. Gore was looking for a way to introduce an antimicrobial capability to its popular Gortex™ sports fabrics in order to make them even more useful in extreme high-humidity/high temperature environments. W.L. Gore contacted American Elements to assist in creating this next generation textile.
The Innovation
At the time American Elements was already in the process of developing a low cost method to produce nanoscale metal oxide powders, one of which was an antimicrobial zinc oxide nanopowder. Small samples and eventually bulk quantities were delivered to W.L. Gore.
The Result
W.L. Gore incorporated Z-Mite into its coating blend and produced an exceptional material that retained antimicrobial properties after repeated washing and use. American Elements branded this new powder Z-Mite™. Z-Mite continues to be a widely used material in the garment industry.
Below is merely a selection of the full catalog of Textiles & Fabrics products that American Elements manufactures. If you do not see a material you're looking for listed, please search the website or contact customerservice@americanelements.com.
Selected Products Supplied to the Textiles & Fabrics Industry
American Elements Textiles & Fabrics Industry Customers Include:
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