Belfasun™ does not use conventional UV filters such as frequently encountered in sun creams and lotions, but rather tiny nano particles of zinc oxide (ZnO) that absorb UVB radiation completely and UVA radiation to 70%, with the remainder being effectively scattered.

                                                           Sun protection mechanism of Belfasun™

Quantities amounting to 0.5-2% ZnO nano particles are distributed in an aqueous dispersion. For this process, Cognis uses the high-quality product NanoShield^®, a new nanotechnological development from the USA. Cognis’ specialist know-how has been applied in the dispersion process and an especially developed binder system. This attaches the invisible nano particulate to the cotton fibers, providing them with an even, stable and permanent coating. The same innovative Cognis technology ensures uniform distribution of the nano particles even in the industrial-scale process (padding technique), guaranteeing reliable sun protection even in mass-produced articles.

In the first instance, Cognis is offering a hydrophilic form of the binder. With this, Belfasun™ offers not just effective sun protection but also enhanced wear comfort thanks to good moisture transfer: perspiration is able to diffuse more easily to the outer surface of the fabric to facilitate evaporation, rather than accumulating and trickling down the surface of the skin. With this extra property, Belfasun™ is also particularly suitable as a treatment for sports fashion apparel such as golf and other outdoor shirts, beachwear etc.