Comparing The Water Repellency Performance and Application of Naturally Derived Oils, Waxes, and Resins Coatings to Commercial Water Repellent
Background
Water repellency is a sought-after performance textile feature that prevents moisture from penetrating textiles, ensuring comfort and dryness, particularly in performance and activewear. Conventional water-repellent finishes rely heavily on synthetic chemicals such as per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and silicone-based coatings. While these finishes offer durability and strong resistance to water, oil, and stains, they pose significant environmental and health risks. The assessment of these substances has identified hazards including repeated-dose toxicity, aquatic toxicity, persistence, and bioaccumulation, making them a growing concern for both consumers and regulatory bodies. Moreover, these coatings can compromise breathability and flexibility, leading to wearer discomfort.
Growing awareness of these concerns has driven the textile industry toward sustainable alternatives, including natural oils, waxes, and resins. Naturally derived water-repellent materials such as jojoba oil, carnauba wax, and pine pitch remain underutilized in modern textile applications despite their historical use and potential environmental benefits. The limited adoption of these materials in the industry is largely due to a lack of comparative research assessing their water repellency, durability, and overall textile performance relative to commercial treatments.
Jojoba oil, derived from the seeds of the Simmondsia chinensis plant, is a natural oil known for its moisturizing and emollient (softening) properties. It also has the potential for a water-repellent coating, especially in eco-friendly and sustainable product formulations. Jojoba oil’s unique chemical structure, which closely resembles the natural oils found in human skin, gives it the ability to create a protective barrier on surfaces, including fabrics.
Carnauba wax, derived from the leaves of the Copernicia prunifera tree native to Brazil, is a natural wax known for its hard, glossy finish and excellent water-resistant properties. It has been used for centuries in various applications, including in textile treatments. Carnauba wax serves as a natural, sustainable alternative to synthetic waterproofing agents.
Lastly, pine pitch, a natural rosin obtained from pine trees, also known as colophony or gum rosin, is a solid, semi-transparent form of resin obtained from the pine trees and other conifers, used for its adhesive properties. It has been used by indigenous cultures for a variety of applications, including waterproofing of boats and tents. Its natural waterproofing properties make it an attractive option for sustainable, eco-friendly fabric treatments.
Beyond sustainability, adaptability in performance textiles is crucial. Many water-repellent treatments are permanent, limiting garment functionality across varying conditions. Developing a self-applied, renewable water-repellent finish could enhance accessibility, allowing wearers to customize their garments for changing needs. This study seeks to explore these natural alternatives to determine their feasibility in offering effective, eco-friendly water repellency.
Research Objectives
This research aims to investigate natural water-repellent alternatives that balance performance and sustainability. While synthetic finishes dominate the market, natural options such as jojoba oil, carnauba wax, and pine pitch provide an opportunity to develop safer, adaptable solutions. By evaluating their water repellency, abrasion resistance, evaporative resistance, and tactile properties, this research will assess their potential as sustainable replacements for PFAs and silicone-based coatings.
Through comparative testing, we seek to determine the viability of these biomaterial-derived substances in providing effective water resistance while minimizing environmental impact. We will explore optimal formulation and application methods for a self-applied, renewable finish on a versatile canvas backpack. This approach aims to enhance product longevity and adaptability, reducing the need for multiple specialized backpacks while promoting environmentally responsible textile solutions.