Durable Water Repellency (DWR)

Bio Polymers can perform well for DWR, but like many of nature's secrets, mastery of these only comes from learning involving extensive trial and error. Emerald Finishing LLC has learned to "unlock" nature's Bio Polymer secrets and has turned that knowledge into various nature-based potions for finishing of textiles and footwear. This chemistry is, of course, PFOA and PFAS-free.

Different blends, which we call "BPx" for Bio Polymer work best for cellulosics or certain synthetic fabrics. While we are constantly improving our formulations, as a customer you can expect the best performance and durability, while also enjoying a biodegradable, fully-sustainable finish that is safe because nature makes it that way.

Only two steps are involved: 1) coating, which can be done using padding, spray or kiss rollers, followed by 2) tenter frame curing.  No subsequent steps, such as rinse, or reductive cleaning are needed and the total process takes 10 - 15 min and it runs continuously. This process is water-based but has no water waste stream and uses only a tiny fraction (2-5%) of the water often used for DWR.  Because of this, we call it "waterless", in accordance with industry nomenclature.  Our DWR treatment on woven, 100% cotton fabric routinely achieves a spray rating of 90 or 100 even after 30 wash/dry cycles. 

This finishing technology is only available from Emerald Finishing LLC and its mill partners.