A year after separating from DuPont, Chemours continues to be a driving force in chemistry and water repellency technology.
Last July, Chemours established a five-point transformation plan, which included reducing structural costs, growing market positions, refocusing investments, enhancing organization and optimizing its portfolio. The last goal inspired the company to begin its first non-fluorinated products collection, which will feature water repellent finishes.
In addition to its other Teflon textile finishes that will be featured at the upcoming Outdoor Retailer in Salt Lake City (Aug. 3-6), Chemours will offer another unique water repellent finish for activewear.
Zelan R3 is a solution for brands and retailers that want to keep consumers dry in all elements. Developed by Chemours, the renewably sourced finish acts as a durable water repellent treatment for fabrics and textiles. Manufactured with plant-based raw materials, Zelan R3 is up to 3X more durable than other non-fluorinated repellents in today’s market.
“Our first non-fluorinated product Zelan R3 has the same durable water repellency as the fluorinated product it is replacing and sometimes better performance,” said Lisa Hardy, North America marketing manager for Teflon textile finishes.
Fabrics and textiles treated with Zelan R3 have durable water repellency while leaving minimal environmental impact. The renewably sourced finish is also compliant with the ZDHC MRSL (Material Restricted Substances List) and other Brand RSLs (Restricted Substance Lists). Containing 60 percent renewably sourced content, Zelan R3 is also recognized as a USDA Certified Biobased product. Zelan R3 is Bluesign approved and certified under the Oeko-Tex Standard 100 for compliance.
In addition to providing water repellency to cotton and synthetics, the finish further protects against rain and water-based stains.
According to a Chemours study, Zelan R3 delivers high water repellency for more than 30 washes. For cotton twill, polyester and polyester-cotton blend fabrics and textiles, Zelan R3 achieved more than 85 percent water spray repellency performance.
Zelan R3 also enables good runnability during the production process and works well with universally used finishing auxiliaries.
For consumers wearing Zelan R3 apparel, the finish maintains breathability and is comfortable for the wearer. Without sacrificing compliance and sustainability, consumers that don Zelan R3 clothing can be protected from the elements without harming the environment or forgoing outdoor leisure.