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Milliken Assure™ Moisture Barrier Recognized with R&D 100 Award 2025

Milliken & Company has recently announced a significant milestone in material science innovation with the recognition of their Assure™ moisture barrier as a winner of the coveted 2025 R&D 100 Award. This award is significant as it celebrates one of the most advanced moisture barriers for firefighter turnout gear, also marking it as the first product in North America that is free of PFAS and halogens, while being UL-certified for flame resistance.

Halsey Cook, CEO of Milliken, expressed pride in receiving the award, stating, "We are honored to receive this acknowledgment for Assure. It emphasizes our team's creativity and commitment to solving real-world challenges through material science and innovation."

The Assure™ moisture barrier stands out, especially given its designed elimination of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and halogenated flame retardants—chemicals traditionally used in moisture barriers. Despite this elimination, Assure meets the stringent performance requirements set out by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), particularly NFPA 1971-2018 and NFPA 1970-2025 standards for structural firefighting.

Assure™ doesn’t just eliminate harmful chemicals; it also offers crucial features like thermal, water, and chemical resistance without requiring additional flame-retardant chemicals. Its lightweight and breathable design is tailored to help firefighters perform efficiently under pressure while complying with rigorous safety protocols.

This moisture barrier is part of Milliken's growing product line that emphasizes PFAS-free fabrics for firefighting. It provides advanced solutions for fire departments nationwide, helping modernize their gear and ensure the safety of their personnel during hazardous situations.

The development of Assure™ involved a collaborative effort from a cross-functional team of engineers, scientists, and product design experts at Milliken, epitomizing the company’s commitment to teamwork and innovation. Marcio Manique, Senior Vice President and General Manager of the Apparel Division, remarked, "Assure was born from listening to firefighters and recognizing a long-ignored challenge. Being recognized with the RD 100 Award is not just an honor; it’s a testament to how Assure sets new standards and makes a real difference for those who protect us every day."

The R&D 100 Awards, often deemed the 'Oscars of Innovation,' recognize impactful new products in the fields of science and technology. Milliken has a history of receiving the R&D 100 Award, previously recognized for its innovations in specialty chemicals and textiles.

Milliken & Company is a global leader in the manufacturing sector focusing on material science. Committed to pushing the boundaries of what's possible today, Milliken designs products that improve people's lives while delivering solutions for customers and communities. Building on a legacy of thousands of patents and extensive applications in textiles, flooring, chemicals, and healthcare, the company embodies a shared understanding of integrity and excellence, aiming to make a positive impact on the world for future generations.

Discover more about Milliken’s innovative solutions and the inquisitive minds behind them on their website and their LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook pages.