EXTON, Pa. — March 3, 2025 — AGC Chemicals Americas Inc. (AGCCA) and DRYFIBER LLC, announce the development and production launch of the industry’s first non-fluorinated oil/water repellent for nonwoven fabrics and technical textiles. AGCCA will manufacture the repellent and work together with DRYFIBER to market it to the nonwoven fabrics and technical textiles industry. Production scale-up will occur in 2025, with commercialization projected for 2026.
AGCCA and DRYFIBER have collaborated to create this innovative coating technology based on polymer chemistry developed at Cornell University. When this thin polymeric coating is applied to textiles, it forms a microscopically rough texture that acts as a chemical barrier. Treated textiles repel oil-based stains and fluids, causing them to bead up so they can be easily cleaned.
These new coatings are ideal for industrial fabrics, upholstery, automotive and medical textiles, and filtration products. They can be applied via dipping or industrial spray-coating and provide a high-performance, sustainable alternative to fluorinated repellent technologies.
“Our partnership with DRYFIBER marks a significant milestone for AGC Chemicals Americas as we continue to deliver sustainable innovations for the nonwovens and technical textiles market. This development represents a breakthrough in stain-resistant technology, delivering the performance our customers expect without relying on fluorinated chemistries. We are proud to meet the growing demand for non-fluorinated alternatives with this solution,” said Tim Johnson, AGCCA’s FibraLAST business manager.
“Developing a working relationship with AGCCA has been instrumental in launching this innovative, patented technology. It addresses a critical industry need for non-fluorinated repellents that deliver exceptional performance. Together, we’re setting a new standard for stain resistance and leading the industry in the transition to a more environmentally friendly future,” added Jack Roe, managing director, DRYFIBER.
“Our collaboration with DRYFIBER has enabled us to engineer a truly unique technology. This achievement shows what can be accomplished when cutting-edge science aligns with a shared vision,” noted Jay Sacci, FibraLAST lead chemist, AGC Chemicals Americas.
“DRYFIBER is proud to collaborate with AGCCA in bringing groundbreaking technologies to the nonwoven fabrics and technical textiles market. Additionally, DRYFIBER serves various markets, extending the impact of this innovative technology across industries that demand high-performance, sustainable solutions like fashion and apparel,” said Greg Lucci, founding partner of DRYFIBER.
Posted: March 4, 2025
Source: AGC Chemicals Americas, Inc. (AGCCA) / DRYFIBER, LLC
