When BioThane Coated Webbing Corp began developing a concept for dog collars, they wanted to create something that was not only cleanable and waterproof, but also ‘stinkproof’ – to combat that lingering ‘wet dog smell’ issue. There was nothing that addressed these issues on the market, and an audience of some 70-million dog owners in the U.S. – most of whom are familiar with the problem. 

BioThane, based in Ohio, is proud that their products are made in the USA. Approaching their 40th year in the coated webbing industry, they are well aware that it takes innovation to remain a leader in their field.

To tackle their odiferous obstacle, they knew they needed a special kind of material. BioThane chose to partner with Teknor Apex to create the perfect grade of flexible PVC, which:

• minimizes odor retention
• meets all regulatory requirements (CA Prop 65, Non-phthalate, No SVHC per EU REACH and CPSIA) 
• provides superior physical properties: abrasion resistance, weather-ability, long term heat aging, and aesthetics. 

Our 50+ years of PVC compounding experience in designing polymer compounds with the right mix of ingredients allow us to successfully perform this balancing act and manufacture the material to BioThane’s exacting standards.

One of the challenges in creating new compounds is regulatory compliance. With the ever-changing regulation landscape, it takes continual testing of new raw materials to meet stringent standards.

This is why Teknor Apex invests heavily in its analytical labs and testing capabilities to ensure our compounds meet our customers’ rigorous requirements for product durability and life. We can perform a multitude of tests to assure compliance with regulatory standards; everything from advanced weathering to long-term heat-aging testing. Our engineers are always available to discuss changing regulatory, performance, or processing requirements, and are driven to ensure our customers have a quality compound that meets all their processing needs.

Collaboration with our customers and innovations in the industry introduce new opportunities never before thought possible. As custom compounders, this is exactly what we find exciting about PVC compounds. 

Just like the material solution for BioThane.

BioThane’s waterproof coated webbing is not only ‘stinkproof’ – it can be sewn and bonded (just like leather) for use in a myriad of applications, from horse harnesses to sporting goods. Of course, the most important audience is the dog owner. See the collar in action!