Cellulose-based PFC-free Functional Surface Finish
Overview
Using hydrophobic cellulose powder recycled from textile waste to produce durable water repellent without the use of Perfluorinated Chemicals (PFCs) which are bioaccumulative and harmful
Technical name of innovation
Cellulose-based PFC-free Functional Surface Finish
Research completion
2021
Commercialisation opportunities
Technology licensing
Problem addressed
Adding durable water repellent (DWR) finishing to fabrics for water-resistance. However, the key component of durable water repellent finishes typically relied on the unique water and oil repellent properties of long-chain perfluoroalkyl groups that can cause adverse effects in humans and the environment
Innovation
- Hydrophobic modification processes to convert cellulose powders recycled from textile waste to high value DWR surface finish
- Impart the fabrics with water repellent property by addition of photocatalysts in pad-dry-cure process
Key impact
- Upcycling textile waste into biobased and eco-friendly DWR
- Reducing the use of PFCs in production of DWR finishing, avoiding additional hazards to the environment and human health
Award
- Gold with Congratulations of the Jury - Special Edition 2021 Inventions Geneva Evaluation Days
Application
- Sustainable and eco-friendly production of durable water repellent
- Textile recycling
- Functional textile
Patent
- EP20157890.3
- 16/792,946
The Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel (HKRITA)
Established in 2006, The Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel (HKRITA) is funded by the Innovation and Technology Commission of the HKSAR government, and hosted by The Hong Kong Polytechnic University.
HKRITA has achieved research deliverables over the years around our research clusters targeting in sustainability, industry advancement and social benefits through our centre-owned research teams and laboratories as well as collaborations with industry partners and institutions.
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