Aqua Alpha

In 2018 our factory developed a solvent-free water-based laminating glue called Aqua-Alpha (Aqua-α) for bonding surface materials onto Neoprene. Raw neoprene is a foam rubber and requires surface treatment to make it suitable for use in wetsuits. The external face can either have a smooth/mesh skin (if that was the surface in contact with the mould) or, like the internal face, has a woven or jersey fabric bonded to it for comfort and durability. Aqua-Alpha replaced a solvent-based glue for this laminating process; it is very strong and, most importantly, non-toxic. Our manufacturing partner estimates that this reduces solvent use by up to 600 grams per wetsuit as well being better for the health of the workers who use it.