Saint-Gobain Launches CORETECH® Barrier Membrane Technology

Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics has announced the launch of the CORETECH^® barrier membrane technology platform, which enables the engineering of versatile and lightweight chemical and biological protective composites.

CORETECH^® barrier membranes are highly innovative solutions that improve product performance and cost-effectiveness. The technology has already been demonstrated in a range of applications such as ONESUIT^® Pro hazmat suits which offer maximum protection against the permeation of chemical and biological substances in both liquid and vapour form; CORETECH^® Shelterguard, which is a lightweight, single-skin barrier fabric to reduce set-up and tear-down times for protective shelters, military expedition tents and medical treatment units; CORETECH^® Hydroguard, which is used for CamelBak^® chemically and biologically stable hydration solutions for potable water supplies and, CORETECH^® Enviroguard, which is used in protective containers and membranes for the handling and storage of petro-chemicals.

Developed through Saint-Gobain’s expertise in fluoropolymer (PTFE) films and fabrics, CORETECH^® represents a range of new customized composite membranes to meet the toughest barrier requirements. These barrier membranes are made by combining different polymers, elastomers and woven and non-woven substrates to achieve unique combinations of properties which will reliably deliver the required performance levels. Each CORETECH^® barrier membrane has been engineered to deliver key performance benefits such as permeation resistance to more than 100 chemicals including biological and chemical warfare agents. Other benefits include durability and robustness, non-combustibility and fire resistance, as well as flexible and lightweight structure for comfort and portability. Suitable for use with a wide range of fabrication methods such as welding or stitch and over-tape, CORETECH^® membranes facilitate the development of engineered solutions to a whole range of barrier and containment challenges.

“At Techtextil 2011, Saint-Gobain will showcase a range of materials developed using patented CORETECH^® technology that resist the permeation of a wide range of hazardous chemical, warfare, and biological substances in both liquid and vapour form,” said Ian Hutcheson, Market Manager, Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics. “The CORETECH^® technology is key to the development of our range of barrier and containment solutions and meeting our customers’ toughest requirements.”