Fluorine-free and Bio-based Material for Durable Water and Oil Repellent Fabrics

HKRITA
Overview

A surface modification method is developed to achieve long-lasting water and oil repellency on textiles without the use of fluorinated compounds.

  • Fluorine-free and Bio-based Material for Durable Water and Oil Repellent Fabrics
Commercialisation opportunities
Technology licensing
Problem addressed

Perfluorochemicals (PFCs) are frequently utilised in durable water repellent (DWR) and durable oil repellent (DOR) fabrics. During washing, byproducts of PFCs can enter waterways. These byproducts persist in the environment, tend to accumulate in living organisms, and pose toxic risks to both human health and the ecosystem.

Innovation
  • The whole fabric treatment process is non-toxic and eco-friendly as it replaces PFCs with bio-based polymers from renewable source.
  • By utilising biopolymers from renewable source, a composite barrier has been created, effectively providing both durable water and oil repellent properties to the fabric. These functions can withstand washing, ensuring the longevity of the treatment.
Key impact
  • The treated fabrics have already passed several AATCC standards on water and oil repellency, water resistance and washability.
  • This approach is environmental-friendly and fluorine-free, making it a sustainable choice for outdoor apparel and working uniforms.
Award
  • 49th International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva (2024) - Gold Medal
Application
  • Outdoor clothing, working uniform and other textiles applications for the protection against water and oil-based substances
  • Applicable on cotton and polyester fabrics

Patent

  • 22024085355.0 (Hong Kong)
  • PCT/CN2024/072039 (PCT)
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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