AGC Chemicals Americas, Inc. (AGCCA) and DRYFIBER, LLC have announced the development of the industry’s first non-fluorinated oil and water repellent for nonwoven fabrics and technical textiles. AGCCA will manufacture the repellent, while DRYFIBER will market it to the textile industry.

This innovative coating technology, based on polymer chemistry developed at Cornell University, forms a microscopically rough texture on textiles, creating a chemical barrier that repels oil-based stains and fluids, causing them to bead up for easy cleaning.

Designed as a high-performance, sustainable alternative to fluorinated repellents, this non-fluorinated coating is ideal for industrial fabrics, upholstery and automotive textiles, medical textiles, and filtration products. The coating can be applied via dipping or industrial spray-coating, ensuring versatility across applications.

Tim Johnson, FibraLAST Business Manager, AGCCA, highlighted the innovation’s significance, “This patented technology addresses a critical industry need for non-fluorinated repellents with exceptional performance. Together, we’re setting a new standard for stain resistance and leading the transition to a more environmentally friendly future.”

Greg Lucci, Founding Partner, DRYFIBER, underscored the technology’s potential beyond technical textiles, “DRYFIBER is proud to collaborate with AGCCA in bringing groundbreaking technologies to the nonwoven fabrics and technical textiles market. Additionally, this innovation extends its impact across industries demanding high-performance, sustainable solutions—including fashion and apparel.”