YKK Corporation has developed the AquaGuard Natulon zipper, replacing the conventional water repellent AquaGuard zipper. The environmental-friendly Natulon has a tape made of recycled PET plastic and a fluorine-free water repellent.

The new product also improves the AquaGuard zipper’s opening/closing operability as well as its appearance.By using recycled PET for the tape, the Natulon zipper contributes to resource utilization and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

Furthermore, switching the main material used in the water repellent finish (film) to one that is fluorine-free also leads to improvement of the manufacturing process environment. This move also meets the tightening of organic fluorine compound usage regulations in Europe and elsewhere.YKK made improvements to the structure of zipper parts such as the chain and slider, improving the pin insertion and the sliding force when opening and closing the zipper.

Founded in Japan in 1934, YKK has continuously set industry standards for quality, innovation, and sustainability in the production of zippers, plastic hardware, hook and loop fasteners, webbing tapes, and snap and buttons. YKK solves the most complex fastening and attaching challenges and continues to pursue further functionality of its fastening products while promoting the development of products that are friendly to the environment and contribute to the achievement of a sustainable society.