Materials
At Tricorp we strive to produce as sustainably as possible; not only with a focus on CO2 emissions and working conditions, but also on the use of the right materials: this is how we ensure that, with the help of the latest technological developments, our work clothing is sustainable, functional and comfortable.
Sustainable clothing starts with choosing the right raw materials. What is actually 'low in impact' depends on various factors: from origin to production process and chemical use. That is why Tricorp uses the Modint Fiber Matrix in combination with bAwear data. These tools help us make well-founded material choices based on environmental impact.
We are gradually replacing conventional cotton with organic cotton and switching to recycled raw materials. These choices lead to a significant reduction in our CO₂ emissions and a significant reduction in water consumption. This is important, because 76% of the total water consumption takes place in the raw material phase. If the clothing can no longer be worn, it is designed in such a way that the material and model can be recycled.
This is how we build the future together.
Raw materials
View here which raw materials we use in Tricorp workwear.
elastane & mechanical stretch
Comfort and a good fit are one of the most important requirements that a professional places on clothing. Elastane yarn stretches well under low tension and returns to its original length. A few % (Lycra®) elastane in the cloth ensures lasting, good wearing comfort. Tricorp uses this a lot in outerwear, but also in Jeans Premium Stretch, for example. A cloth can also be made more elastic by a special weaving construction: mechanical stretch. Tricorp often uses mechanical stretch as a solution in work trousers.
ELASTO MULTI STAR
Elastomultiester is a synthetic fabric that is mixed with other fabrics to increase elasticity: so you can continue to move during the working day without your work clothes getting in the way. Elastomultiester is extremely durable, making it a durable fabric.
Cotton
Cotton is available in various qualities, but only the best cotton is good enough for our work clothing. Combed cotton has a high quality. By combing the cotton, the shortest and most vulnerable fibers are removed. Any irregularities in the yarns are removed. The longer the fiber, the better the quality of the yarn. Combing the cotton also prevents any unevenness in the yarns. The result is a durable piece of cotton of the best quality.
For new developments, Tricorp chooses organic cotton or BCI cotton. These cotton types are a sustainable alternative to regular cotton. Compared to regular cotton, when growing organic and BCI cotton, rainwater is often used, more efficient irrigation methods are used and no pesticides are used with organic cotton.
Polyester
Polyester is a real all-rounder among synthetic fibres. It is ultra-strong, light-absorbing, wrinkle-free and retains its color and shape. Polyester is often used as a raw material for various fabrics.
The sturdy and uncomplicated synthetic fiber is very versatile and can be combined very well with other fibers. Furthermore, polyester is extremely suitable as a raw material for circular products.
To preserve raw materials, we increasingly work with recycled materials
polyester from worn clothing. We feel responsible for it
reusing our own clothes. The clothing is fiberized and mixed with new materials. This creates a new strong fiber from which a new yarn is spun. In addition, we also use PET bottles that are extremely suitable for processing into a new strong polyester fiber. The quality of the yarn is important for a longer lifespan. After all, a longer lifespan is also sustainable.
Polyamide
Polyamide, also called nylon, is a strong synthetic fiber. Where clothing has to withstand a lot, for example the knee pads of trousers, Tricorp chooses the strongest polyamide type, namely Cordura.
Modacrylic
Modacrylic is a synthetic, flame-resistant substance and is used in our multi-standard products. Modacrylic is a soft, comfortable fabric and is resistant to chemicals and solvents. This way you are well protected throughout the working day!
Viscose
Viscose, also called rayon, is a soft and comfortable, semi-synthetic fabric. Viscose provides ultimate wearing comfort, absorbs moisture and water well and ensures cool skin in warm weather.
Technologies
View here which technologies we use in Tricorp workwear.
DWR finish
DWR (Durable Water Repellent) is a water-repellent treatment applied to the outer fabric of clothing, which causes water to roll off the surface as droplets instead of soaking into the fabric. This prevents a clammy or cold feeling and increases wearing comfort. PFAS-free variants are increasingly being used, which offer the same performance with a lower chemical impact.
Rip stop
Ripstop is a special weaving technique that not only makes fabrics stronger, but also extra tear-resistant. The characteristic grid structure provides optimal protection and is used in various Tricorp winter jackets. Despite this reinforcement, Ripstop remains remarkably lightweight, making the jackets feel comfortable and flexible.
Because the fabric is extremely durable thanks to this technique, products with Ripstop last longer: very durable for every professional!
UV block
The fibers from which work clothing is made first determine whether the garment is breathable and whether it allows UV radiation to pass through. Fibers such as (bleached) cotton and viscose are extremely transparent to UV radiation. Polyester is a fabric that has a low permeability and therefore has a sun protection effect. But not only fibers provide UV protection. A special weaving technique and added artificial UV absorbers make the clothing UV-resistant. After washes, UV resistance increases even more. Because the 'holes' between the fibers become smaller, even less UV radiation can penetrate. Tricorp's UV Block workwear is all UPF 40+ and therefore provides excellent protection.
YKK®
Many Tricorp products are equipped with YKK® zippers. And rightly so: a YKK® zipper is the Rolls Royce among zippers and lasts longer! A zipper should not be the weakest link in a garment. By using a good quality zipper, the garment will last the longest.
PrimaLoft®
Primaloft® insulation ensures that your body stays warm. Moreover, it is soft and supple. The Primaloft used in the RE2050 and Rewear collection consists of 80% recycled material combined with advanced fiber technology for high-quality environmentally friendly insulation that provides instant warmth without the bulk. The liner is extremely light and fits perfectly in the RE2050 and Rewear winter coats.
Polygiene®
Polygiene® is a permanent finish based on silver chloride that prevents unpleasant odors. This finish ensures that work clothing remains smelling fresh for a long time and needs to be washed less often. After all, washing clothes uses the most energy and water in the entire life cycle of a garment, after cloth production. Polygiene® is incorporated in the T-shirt and polo shirt from the RE2050 line and in the polo shirt, T-shirt and sweater from the Revisible collection.
Cordura®
Cordura is used in various Tricorp products. This fabric is very strong and can withstand heavy loads. Cordura is wear-resistant, friction-resistant and durable.
Cooldry
CoolDry® polyester is a yarn with a special yarn cross-section in the shape of a cloverleaf. This creates channels, which has the advantage that body moisture is drained to the outside of the clothing, so that the body remains dry and the body temperature constant. A fiber that is often used in sportswear but also offers added value in workwear. Tricorp applies this in high-visibility clothing and various T-shirts and polo shirts.
