Researchers at Cornell University have unveiled a groundbreaking technique to create waterproof coatings from discarded textiles. Led by Juan Hinestroza, the Rebecca Q Morgan ’60 Professor of Fiber Science and Apparel Design in the College of Human Ecology, the team developed a low-temperature method for synthesizing superhydrophobic (waterproof) coatings using environmentally friendly solvents like water and ethanol, which are safer for humans and the environment than conventional coatings.
Dr. Hinestroza shared with Cornell News [1], “If we can save one piece of clothing from going into a landfill, then that will be a success.” Annually, Americans discard between 80 to 100 pounds of clothing per person.
The innovative process involves chemically decomposing waste polyester textiles to produce a mixture containing polyester, its monomers, dyes, additives, and dirt. This mixture undergoes an alkaline depolymerization process to produce a compound, which is then synthesized into a metal-organic framework (MOF). The resulting MOF-coated textiles exhibit superhydrophobic properties, repelling liquids such as soda, water, orange juice, sports drinks, and milk without the need for harmful chemicals typically found in conventional waterproof coatings.
The MOF in the coating can be synthesized at room temperature using readily available water and ethanol, avoiding energy-intensive processes of separation or purification of the discarded textiles. This approach reduces textile waste and promotes sustainable practices in the fashion industry. Hinestroza emphasized the environmental benefits, highlighting that this technique avoids the use of harsh chemicals and carcinogens commonly found in conventional waterproof coatings.
This research extends previous work that demonstrated the potential to chemically break down old clothing to reuse polyester compounds and create MOF particles with applications in fire resistance, antibacterial properties, and wrinkle resistance. Yelin Ko, a doctoral student in fiber science and the first author of the study, emphasized the potential of this technique to prevent clothing from ending up in landfills.
The team stated that this technology offers a way to reduce reliance on harmful chemicals in textile manufacturing. This innovative development marks a significant step towards more sustainable and eco-friendly textile manufacturing, addressing the global challenge of textile waste while maintaining high-quality production standards.
“The upcycling aspect of this work is what’s most important,” Hinestroza added, underscoring the transformative potential of this solution in the textile industry.
Sources:
[1] The waterproof coating is made from upcycled textile waste https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2024/10/waterproof-coating-made-upcycled-textile-waste
