Denim Halo, Archroma’s innovative solution for distressed denim, has earned a new accolade.
The Swiss specialty chemical manufacturer won the International Textile Manufacturers Federation (ITMF) 2025 Sustainability & Innovation Award for the denim pretreatment and dyeing process.
Denim Halo offers a safer and more sustainable alternative to traditional methods of achieving worn-in denim looks by replacing manual scraping, hazardous potassium permanganate sprays and energy-intensive stone washing. It also eliminates traditional indigo and sulfur dyeing processes that have high water and energy consumption and effluent discharge.
Related Stories
Denim Halo utilizes Dirsol RD, a new viscosity-modifying and patented pretreatment that enables superficial dyeing.
The pretreatment is combined Archroma’s portfolio of textile dyes including: Denisol, a range of pre-reduced indigo dyes, including an aniline-free formulation; Diresul, a range of pre-reduced sulfur dyes , including an energy-saving black formulation; and Earth Colors, the firm’s biosynthetic earth-tone dyes made from agricultural waste.
Impact assessments using Archroma’s One Way Impact Calculator demonstrate substantial environmental benefits for Denim Halo versus standard processes with ZDHC Level 3 MRSL compliance. Results include water savings of 40-56 percent, energy reductions of 30-36 percent, and CO2 emission cuts of 33-34 percent depending on the dye formulation used.
Through Denim Halo, Archroma aims to give brands and mills a simple way to produce distressed denim looks with a significantly reduced environmental footprint and cleaner chemistries. Mills can produce distressed effects without modifying standard dye recipes or equipment setup. The process enhances high-contrast laser etching and reduces caustic soda consumption in sulfur mercerizing. Technical advantages include reduced yarn shrinkage and improved garment tensile strength, especially on black denim, with lower chemical use in dyeing and finishing.
“Archroma believes in challenging the status quo. Under our planet conscious roadmap, we seek solutions that not only advance sustainability but also nurture the creativity and profitability of textile manufacturers,” said Dhirendra Gautam, Archroma’s VP commercial. “Denim Halo exemplifies this approach, and we’re honored that it has been recognized by ITMF.”
The ITMF Awards celebrate achievements in two categories: Sustainability & Innovation and International Cooperation. Winners were honored at the ITMF Annual Conference, held in Yogyakarta, Indonesia from Oct. 24-25, 2025.
