Archroma, a global leader in specialty chemicals, has won the International Textile Manufacturers Federation (ITMF) 2025 Sustainability & Innovation Award for its breakthrough denim technology, DENIM HALO. The innovation allows mills and brands to create distressed denim looks with a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable process.
“Archroma believes in challenging the status quo. Under our planet-conscious roadmap, we pursue solutions that advance sustainability while supporting the creativity and profitability of textile manufacturers,” said Dhirendra Gautam, Vice President Commercial, Archroma. “DENIM HALO exemplifies this approach, and we’re honored that ITMF has recognized it. Together with mills worldwide, we’re showing that sustainability and superior performance can go hand in hand.”
Reinventing Distressed Denim
Distressed denim has long been a consumer favorite, but conventional production involves manual scraping, potassium permanganate sprays, and stone-washing — all processes that pose health and environmental challenges. Traditional indigo and sulfur dyeing further increase water, energy, and chemical consumption.
Archroma’s DENIM HALO offers a safer, high-performance alternative. Powered by DIRSOL® RD, a patented pretreatment technology, and supported by Archroma’s advanced dye portfolio, the process enables laser-friendly denim with intense color contrast and reduced resource use.
Cleaner Chemistry and Proven Impact
The DENIM HALO system combines DIRSOL® RD with tailored dye solutions based on mill requirements, including:
-
DENISOL® pre-reduced indigo dyes with aniline-free formulations
-
DIRESUL® pre-reduced sulfur dyes, including energy-saving blacks
-
EarthColors® biosynthetic dyes made from agricultural waste
Environmental assessments using Archroma’s ONE WAY Impact Calculator show impressive results:
-
40–56% water savings
-
30–36% energy reductions
-
33–34% CO₂ emission cuts
All formulations meet ZDHC Level 3 MRSL compliance standards.
Safety and Efficiency Benefits
The innovation enhances both worker safety and production efficiency. Mills can achieve high-contrast laser effects without potassium permanganate or manual scraping. The process reduces caustic soda use, minimizes yarn shrinkage, and improves garment strength — especially for black denim — while using fewer chemicals in dyeing and finishing.
Recognizing Global Excellence
The ITMF Awards celebrate achievements in Sustainability & Innovation and International Cooperation. Winners were honored at the ITMF Annual Conference 2025, held in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, from October 24–25, 2025.
With DENIM HALO, Archroma continues to lead the industry toward safer, smarter, and more sustainable denim manufacturing — proving that fashion innovation and environmental responsibility can truly coexist.
