Cool Black helps carpet beat the heat

Specialty chemicals maker Clariant, Charlotte, N.C., has introduced black masterbatches specially formulated to reflect heat-generating near-infrared light rays to keep carpeting cooler. At the same time, light in the visible spectrum is absorbed so color development is comparable to that of standard pigments.

REMAFIN Cool Black is intended to replace products that use carbon black pigments. Polypropylene carpet yarns made with new Cool Black masterbatches are intended for outdoor carpeting on decks or boats where the heat of the sun can make dark surfaces uncomfortable to walk on. The same technology can be applied in apparel and upholstery and in resins other than polypropylene, including polyester and nylon.

Yarns made with Cool Black masterbatches remained about 20 degrees F (10 degrees C) cooler than control samples. Acceptable color saturation was achieved at 7 percent masterbatch loading, which was comparable to the loading used with the carbon black masterbatch.

Clariant Masterbatches specializes in adding color and functionality to synthetic fibers in carpets, clothing, automotive interiors, non-wovens and artificial turf. Additive masterbatches enhance durability, UV stability, flame retardancy, antibacterial and many other performance properties.