Airable Research Lab has formulated a soy-based wax emulsion for all waterproofing applications. Water-repellant coatings are important for outdoor clothing and equipment. Textiles for outdoor use (e.g., hiking and camping) are generally treated with a hydrophobic coating that, over time, loses its efficacy. Protective coatings can be reapplied, but the common ones include a silicone or fluorinated compound, both of which may release toxic chemicals. The Airable wax emulsion is bio - based. In addition, it provides protection after one simple spray application and subsequent drying.
The formulation is a soy wax emulsified into water. The small particle size of the wax allows the formulation to penetrate textiles and other materials to provide a hydrophobic barrier. Testing was conducted in our lab using an apparatus that measures the angle of contact between a water droplet and a material of interest. A substrate with greater hydrophobicity
will have a higher contact angle; anything greater than 120° is considered “hydrophobic.” The testing compared contact angles of the Airable product and a commercial control. These early-stage results, shown in the chart on the right, indicate that Airable’s formulation is comparable to commercially available waterproofing products. Samples arecurrently being field-tested for feedback.
Benefits
GREEN PRODUCTS CAPITALIZE ON A CRITICAL MARKET TREND
Growing sustainability concerns have prompted advocacy for stricter chemical regulations, and both evolving policy and consumer preference have stimulated market shifts toward bio-based raw materials. Soybeans have broad applications across both consumer and industrial spheres, often providing benefits in terms of cost, function, and sustainability.
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