Karen Mertins

R&D Chemist, ITW Pro Brands

Karen Mertins, R&D Chemist at ITW Pro Brands, is co-inventor on several patents including two relatedto detectable fiber technology. An active contributing innovator, Karen has been instrumental in the development of polymeric systems since joining ITW Pro Brands in 2010. Prior work in coatings chemistry and regulatory compliance at Akzo Nobel gives her a broad understanding of challenges facing industry today.  Karen holds a B.S. in Chemistry from the University of North Georgia and an M.S. in Materials Science and Engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology.

DETEX® Technology—A New Way of Avoiding Trouble

Abstract: DETEX® technology is a broad polymer and metal based technology. This presentation would encompass the basics of the technology and various applications. DETEX® nonwovens incorporate metal and X-ray detectable additives within the nonwoven manufacturing process. The additives are completely encapsulated in their respective nonwovens so, many of the properties remain the same with the addition of detection.

The spectrum of the technology will be discussed in detail as well as current and future based applications will be taken into account. This technology adds a new level of innovation to compliance, contamination, process and procedure for many industries and applications for Industrial, Institutional and Consumer products.