PERF has announced the launch of the world’s 1st Biogenic Inherent Flame Resistant (IFR) and ARC
flash protective workwear in India, bringing a new range of technical protective garments for
workers in power generation, mining, data centres, steel and aluminium, oil & gas and other high-
risk industrial environments, notes a press release from the company.
The natural fibre-based material is designed to combine the protection required for high-risk
environments with properties associated with natural fabrics, including softness, breathability and
comfort. The softness makes the fabric more comfortable against the skin during extended working
hours, while its breathability allows better airflow and helps manage heat and moisture.
The material, named EXCO, is the result of seven years of R&D undertaken collaboratively by PERF
and an Italian technology partner. The fabric is manufactured in India, with PERF positioning the
launch as an example of advanced protective technology being developed and produced
domestically.
The material is also claimed to be up to 99.9% biodegradable, reflecting PERF’s focus on reducing the
environmental impact associated with protective workwear made from conventional man-made
fibres.
“Our objective with this development was not simply to create another protective fabric. We wanted
to develop a material that could meet the demanding requirements of technical protective apparel
while offering the characteristics of a natural fibre. The seven-year R&D journey, together with PERF,
has allowed us to work on the material extensively and test it multiple times to ensure that
protection and usability remain at the centre of the product,” said Enrico Bonafini, who headed the
research and development effort behind EXCO, working closely with PERF to develop and refine the biogenic
IFR material for industrial protective applications.