Climate change has many negative effects. One of them is that the threat posed by biting or stinging insects is on the rise. Native pests such as ticks and mosquitoes are now active for significantly longer periods and often transmit dangerous diseases. In addition, invasive species such as the Asian tiger mosquito have long since joined the fray, bringing tropical diseases like dengue fever and chikungunya fever in their wake.

Choosing the right clothing 
For anyone who spends a lot of time outdoors, simply choosing the right clothing can make a big difference: Long pants and closed-toe shoes are a must in the woods and in tall grass. And what if these pants, socks, or even T-shirts could offer their own built-in protection? The answer is Cell Solution Protection, developed by TITK Thuringian Institute for Textile and Plastics Research e.V. in Rudolstadt. 
This non-profit, industry-oriented research institute specializes, among other things, in particularly sustainable Lyocell fibers and, thanks to a patented process, equips them with useful additional functions. In addition to temperature-regulating (Clima), skin-care (Skin care), and antibacterial or antiviral (Bioactive) fibers, the TITK has also developed the Protection fiber. It contains the active agent permethrin and thus reliably repels biting and stinging insects.

Depot-and-release function
The active agent is permanently incorporated into the fiber matrix during the spinning process – without nanotechnology, without capsules, and without surface coatings. No microplastics are released either. Because it is anchored deep within the fiber structure, a depot-and-release function is created, meaning that the permethrin is released slowly but steadily in low concentrations to the textile surface. This mechanism of action remains effective throughout the entire lifespan of the garment or technical textile and is still effective even after 100 washes at 60 °C. 
At the same time, the breathable and moisture-regulating cellulose base of the Lyocell fiber ensures a comfortable skin climate and helps regulate temperature. Depending on the application, the Cell Solution Protection fiber can be incorporated into blended fabrics at a content of 5 to 10 percent.

Suitable applications

...include, for example, stockings and socks, outdoor gear, medical apparel and hospital clothing, nursing gloves, and home textiles such as bedding, linens, and mattresses.
In accordance with EN 17487, Cell Solution Protection is approved for use in protective clothing designed to minimize the risk of tick bites. The functional fiber is classified as a treated article and is therefore not subject to the EU Biocidal Products Regulation. The technology, certified to Oeko-Tex Class 1, also meets the requirements of the German Armed Forces’ Technical Delivery Specifications (TL) for materials containing permethrin.
TITK has its subsidiary, smartpolymer GmbH, manufacture and distribute the fiber. For more information, visit www.smartpolymer.de.