Manchester, UK-Independent British adhesive formulator and manufacturer Itac Ltd has successfully marketed a new product-a two-component polyurethane adhesive-to China.The adhesive, called ITS-Fibretherm, is the first in a new range of technically advanced adhesives, said the firm. The 2-part PU adhesive was specifically developed by Itac for the manufacture of electric blankets, in response to a UK customer's request for an adhesive which would help bring manufacturing up-to-date. Production of these products has now largely moved to the Far East, and Itac identified China as a ready market for the adhesive. "Initial sales in China have been encouraging but we see it as only the start," said Paul Armitt, managing director of Manchester-based Itac, in a company statement. "The market for electric blankets is currently experiencing a period of rapid growth," continued Armitt, adding that, as an effective method of clean, efficient, low-cost heat, it has few rivals." "China is the world's leading exporter, it has huge potential for this product and its home market for electric blankets is growing rapidly," Armitt said, pointing out that China's middle class numbers two hundred and fifty million people-"that's a lot of electric blankets." Despite being developed for a specific use, ITS-Fibretherm has advantages for many textile and fabric manufacturers in the fashion and clothing trade. It is a clear sprayable adhesive and is easy to apply. It bonds fabrics quickly, allowing components to move quickly through the manufacturing process, the firm said. The adhesive is also non-flammable with good heat and moisture resistance and forms a strong but flexible bond. This is important as it allows modern fabrics to remain soft to the touch after the adhesive has bonded."
