RespiGard™ the waterproof and breathable membrane is showcased at Materially's Wonder Matter(s) exhibition at Superstudio Più

Asahi Kasei, a diversified Japanese multinational company, presents RespiGard™ by Polypore – a waterproof and breathable polypropylene membrane with applications in outdoor furniture and technical sportswear – at Fuorisalone (Milan Design Week) in Milan, Italy, from April 18 to 22, 2023, at Superstudio Più in via Tortona 27.

RespiGard™ is introduced within the exhibition of the Wonder Matter(s) by Materially. The exhibition explores and returns a perspective on materials from the concept of wonder observed in various fields: education, creativity and industry.

A proprietary and patented manufacturing process and components provide a high-porosity membrane that allows for airflow and moisture evaporation, but its pore structure is too small for water droplets to penetrate. RespiGard™ is naturally hydrophobic, has a smooth and uniform surface, and is also lightweight due to its high porosity and thin structure. Produced using a solvent-free manufacturing process, it has achieved OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 certification. The polypropylene-based membrane is recyclable and perfluorocarbon (PFOA or PFOS) free.

Applications range from furniture to clothing. The RespiGard™ membrane can be laminated to fabric, making it water resistant and usable in outdoor furniture or outdoor roofing and draperies. When coupled with polypropylene fabrics and accessories, it can be recycled as a mono-material textile solution.

Polypore, an Asahi Kasei company, which produces RespiGard™ and holds the patent, specializes in the research and design of microporous membranes for various applications. It has developed a manufacturing process to produce a material with high waterproof and breathable qualities. Textile manufacturers, designers, and furniture companies can take advantage of this high-performance solution of waterproof-breathable materials for their products and projects.

In 2022, on the occasion of its 100th anniversary, Asahi Kasei introduced the RespiGard™ membrane to the world of sportswear and textiles at the ISPO trade show in Munich.

The Asahi Kasei Group contributes to life and living for people around the world. Since its foundation in 1922 with ammonia and cellulose fiber businesses, Asahi Kasei has consistently grown through the proactive transformation of its business portfolio to meet the evolving needs of every age. With more than 46,000 employees worldwide, the company contributes to a sustainable society by providing solutions to the world's challenges through its three business sectors of Material, Homes, and Health Care. Its Material sector, comprised of Environmental Solutions, Mobility & Industrial, and Life Innovation, includes a wide array of products from battery separators and biodegradable textiles to engineering plastics and sound solutions. For more information, visit www.asahi-kasei.com

Asahi Kasei is also dedicated to sustainability initiatives and is contributing to reaching a carbon neutral society by 2050.

To learn more, visit https://www.asahi-kasei.com/sustainability/