Milliken & Company Introduces Milliken Assure, a Non-PFAS Moisture Barrier for Use in Firefighter Attendance Equipment

SPARTANBURG, SC — Global diversified manufacturing leader Milliken & Company today announced the release of Milliken Assure, North America’s first non-PFAS, non-halogenated, flame-resistant moisture barrier for firefighter attendance equipment. The new fabric is UL certified and exceeds NFPA 1971-2018 requirements.

“Milliken is committed to providing firefighters with state-of-the-art fabrics that help them work comfortably, safely and efficiently,” said Marcio Manique, SVP of Protective Fabrics at Milliken. “We see moisture barriers as the missing piece in the fire service market when it comes to high performance, non-PFAS fabrics for replacement equipment. Our expertise in removing PFAS chemistry from textile products makes us well equipped to meet this challenge.”

To ensure the highest quality product, Assure exceeds the requirements of the NFPA 1971-2018 standard, successfully passing a more stringent testing process for moisture barrier performance than the recently published NFPA 1970-2025 standard.

Two of the most difficult tests to pass for a non-PFAS moisture barrier are the resistance to light degradation test and the resistance to viral penetration test as outlined in the NFPA 1971-2018 standard. There is a modification to the light degradation test and an alternative liquid barrier test allowed in lieu of resistance to viral penetration in the NFPA 1970-2025 standard. Assure passed both tougher tests.

“Getting a non-PFAS solution that meets the highest possible standards for our first responders as quickly as possible is everyone’s goal,” Manique said. “Milliken is proud to build on our centuries of textile manufacturing experience and do our part to bring this product to market in support of that effort.”

Milliken works with all firefighter apparel manufacturers and not only provides fabrics for structural turnout gear, but also for station, wildland, technical rescue and EMS wear. With the introduction of Assure, Milliken is the only textile manufacturer in the United States to offer outer shells, moisture barriers and thermal liners.

Assure is available for specification and purchase now. For more information, visit contact.milliken.com/assure.

###

About Milliken

Milliken & Company is a global manufacturing leader whose focus on materials science delivers tomorrow’s breakthroughs today. From industry-leading molecules to sustainable innovations, Milliken creates products that improve people’s lives and provide solutions for its customers and communities. Building on thousands of patents and a portfolio of applications in the textile, flooring, chemical and healthcare sectors, the company leverages a shared sense of integrity and excellence to positively impact the world for generations. Discover more about Milliken’s curious minds and inspired solutions at milliken.com and further Facebook, Instagramand LinkedIn.

About the Milliken textile business

Building on over 155 years of award-winning research and development, the textiles division of US company Milliken & Company offers a diverse portfolio of technical textiles serving a wide range of global markets, including apparel, automotive and transportation, construction and infrastructure , hospitality, industrial, military, decoration and protective clothing. Focused on improving performance, enhancing protection and promoting fabric sustainability, Milliken produces superior solutions and develops leading innovations that add value to everyday life. We are textile innovators focused on game-changing technologies and materials that impact lives and transform industries. Learn more at textiles.milliken.com.