3M, a leader in developing innovative solutions, has unveiled 3M Scotchlite Reflective Material designed to help athletic apparel designers with a new, high-performance reflective material to create active wear.

The patented C790 Carbon Black Stretch Transfer Film is a rich, deep black-coloured material when viewed in daylight. But when illuminated at night, the material delivers vibrant reflective brightness that Scotchlite reflective material is known for, said a statement from the company.

The vivid brightness of the material is durable through wear, stretch or washing. Featuring a low-temp bonding capability, it also can adhere to a wide variety of fabrics without affecting design or quality, it said.

Unlike traditional colourised-silver reflective materials that apply a thin layer of colour on top of glass beads, 3M’s proprietary carbon black technology makes the colour inherent to the material’s construction, it added.

This creates a discreet, colour-fast material with initial brightness averaging 300 RA strike. Carbon black technology also helps provide off-angle brightness for increased visibility in low-light conditions.

Ryan Gallagher, global market development manager, 3M, said: “Designers of active apparel no longer have to compromise when they want a high performing, on-trend reflective material.”

“C790 carbon black transfer film is the deepest black and highest stretch reflective material we’ve ever made, meaning designers now have a single material that can blend in, stand out and move with any active pursuit or dynamic lifestyle,” he said.

C790 carbon black transfer film can accommodate a wide range of applications on gear worn for training, running, cycling, motorsports and more, it stated. – TradeArabia News Service