The Outdoor Retailer Innovation Awards recognize new and groundbreaking technologies used in winter apparel, outdoor and sports products and materials. Acteev Protect™ by Ascend Performance Materials has won the 2021 Innovation Award due to its antimicrobial and odor-resisting fabric technology.
Acteev technology utilizes zinc ions embedded in a polymer to create long-lasting antimicrobial properties. The treated fabric destroys odor-causing bacteria and fungi. Acteev yarns and fabrics are abrasion-resistant, soft, and durable. The zinc ions are embedded during the polymerization process, knit, and woven articles made with Acteev retain their antimicrobial efficacy for up to 50 washes.
Acteev Protect mask is reusable and washable. Or just set it aside, the microbe-fighting active ingredient will kill off the germs that cause bad smells, leaving your mask fresh for the next use.
Acteev Protect was chosen out of a record number of submissions for its performance across four criteria, including Spark, Desire, Function, and Impact. The fabric testing was completed at the University of Cambridge, demonstrating that Acteev technology deactivates SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, with 99.9% efficacy on contact. Ascend is working with governmental agencies to obtain appropriate regulatory clearances to make specific claims in the U.S.
Nikki Huffman, principal business development leader for Acteev™, said, “We are honored to be in the company of so many talented innovators. We envision an Acteev world with Ascend working together with other manufacturers and innovators to create products ranging from sheets and pillowcases to scrubs and hospital gowns, athleisure wear and socks, swimwear and intimate apparel.”
