EPA Reclassifies Uncharged Fibers

UMF Corporation announced that after a lengthy U.S. Environmental Protection Agency review (EPA), the EPA has determined that uncharged Micrillon fibers, as well as the polymer additive chemistry used to create them, are not pesticides and do not require registration under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). Instead, the EPA has classified uncharged Micrillon as pesticide application equipment.

This ruling enables UMF to expand its development of reusable textiles that bind chlorine atoms when laundered with EPA-registered bleach or disinfectant product — supporting cleaner surfaces in environments with high hygiene standards.

“This classification allows us to move forward with confidence in developing a range of products for healthcare, hospitality, and foodservice.” says George Clarke, CEO of UMF Corporation. “The ability to deliver chlorine atoms to surfaces through washable, rechargeable textiles is a new disruptive bio-technology.”

Micrillon high performance fibers are sold in an uncharged state and acquire chlorine atoms only when exposed to appropriate disinfectants or bleach products. The company has also developed a quick colorimetric test using potassium iodide to verify chlorine levels on the surface — allowing for a simple, quantitative test.

UMF Corporation is developing a variety of products that incorporate Micrillon fibers, including gloves, cut/bite resistant sleeves, pillow protectors, foodservice textiles, filters, and wipers. These products will be sold in an uncharged state and are designed to be used with EPA-registered chlorine disinfectants.