Nanomaterials for sustainable water repellent fabrics

Today, the highest level of water and oil repellency is achieved by using highly fluorinated chemical substances. However, increased concern and heightened regulation of perfluorocarbons and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFCs and PFASs) is leading the textile industry to seek alternative chemistries that are more sustainable.

The other four other partners involved in the Innovate UK-funded project, REPETEX, are North West Textiles Network, Manchester Manufacturing Group, Mexar, an independent inkjet ink manufacturer specialising in water-based inkjet technologies, and The Welding Institute (TWI).

Dr Selina Ambrose, Technical Manager at Promethean Particles, said: “Durable water repellent technologies have been traditionally incorporated into technical textiles for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) applications, utilised by first responders, military personnel and outdoor industrial workers.”

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Innovation in Textiles