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Over 99% Light Blocking & UV Cut Rate: Toray's Functional Material "SUMMER SHIELD®" Developed to Withstand the Scorching Sun of Midsummer
As heatstroke alert announcements have become almost routine, Japan's summers are getting hotter every year.
Among various countermeasures for the sweltering heat, more people are carrying parasols than before. Not only adult women, but also men and elementary school students can now be seen commuting with parasols.
How do parasols function to block heat and light? The focus here is on "SUMMER SHIELD®" from "TORAY INDUSTRIES INC." which boasts a high light blocking and UV cut rate of over 99% and can lower the perceived temperature by up to 4 degrees.
We spoke with Tatsuhito Kanda, the Section Manager of the Apparel Materials Section of the Sports & Textile Materials Business Department at Toray, to uncover the secrets behind this.
PROFILE
Tatsuhito Kanda
Section Manager of Apparel Materials, Sports & Textile Materials Business Department
Joined the company in 1994. Responsible for linings, life materials, and sportswear fabrics. After a stint in Shanghai, reappointed to the current department as a linings specialist. In current role since 2021.
Surviving the Sweltering Summer
Was there a predecessor material to "SUMMER SHIELD®"?
A similar material is the waterproof and breathable brand "Dermizax®." This is a laminated material that combines waterproof and breathable properties for sports and outdoor activities.
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