Outdoor apparel has long relied on Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finishes to protect wearers from rain and snow. However, traditional DWR treatments—especially those using long-chain perfluorinated compounds (PFCs)—have come under scrutiny for their environmental persistence and toxicity. Consumers are demanding performance without pollution, and global retailers are now phasing out harmful C8 and even C6 fluorocarbons.
The industry’s answer? C0 PFC-free DWRs—next-generation water-repellent treatments based on silicones, dendrimers, and plant-based chemistries. These new technologies provide water resistance while complying with REACH, ZDHC, and Greenpeace Detox requirements.
At Fumao Fabric, we’ve partnered with advanced chemical innovators to apply the latest C0 finishes to our technical outerwear textiles. Whether for hiking jackets, ski apparel, or windbreakers, our fabrics deliver sustainability with real-world rain protection—without toxic trade-offs.
What Are C0 DWR Finishes and Why Are They Fluorine-Free?
Traditional DWR coatings use fluoropolymers that contain fluorine atoms, which resist water, oil, and stains. But these molecules, especially long-chain C8s, persist in the environment and accumulate in human tissue.
C0 DWRs eliminate fluorine altogether. They use alternative chemistries like silicone emulsions, polyurethane dispersions, and hyperbranched polymers to repel water without toxic residues.
Why Are Brands Phasing Out C6 and C8 DWRs?
Due to regulatory pressure and environmental activism, brands are removing all perfluorinated chemicals. Key drivers include:
- REACH and California Prop 65 bans on PFAS
- Greenpeace Detox Campaign, targeting hazardous PFCs
- Global retailer commitments (e.g., H&M, Patagonia, The North Face)
Learn more about PFAS phaseout at ChemSec Marketplace and OEKO-TEX® Eco Passport.
What Chemicals Are Used in Modern C0 DWR Formulas?
Typical non-fluorinated agents include:
| Base Chemistry | Key Brands / Traits |
|---|---|
| Silicone Emulsion | HeiQ Eco Dry, breathable, soft |
| Hyperbranched Polymer | Beyond Surface Technologies (BST) |
| Polyurethane Dispersion | Rudolf Bionic-Finish Eco |
| Fatty-Acid Based | Teflon EcoElite, bio-based |
These ingredients offer rain resistance with lower runoff impact and recyclability.
How Effective Are C0 DWRs Compared to Fluorinated Versions?
The major challenge for C0 DWRs is maintaining performance without the oil-repellent capabilities of fluorocarbons.
While C0 finishes can match fluorinated DWRs for water repellency, they are weaker in oil and stain resistance, making them better suited to outerwear than workwear or culinary uniforms.
Can C0 DWR Coatings Match Rain-Repellency Standards?
Yes—especially for moderate outdoor use. Tests show C0 DWRs achieve:
- ISO 4920 Spray Test Ratings of 80–100 (very good)
- AATCC 22 Water Repellency scores of 90+ (beading maintained after 10 washes)
View comparative test data at Rudolf Group and HeiQ Performance Index.
How Durable Are PFC-Free DWR Finishes After Washing?
Durability depends on the application process, curing temperature, and fiber content. Fumao’s latest laminated polyester shells with C0 finish retain 80% repellency after 20 home washes.
Tips for improving C0 DWR life:
- Use high-cure processing (140°C+)
- Combine with PU membranes
- Recommend tumble drying or heat-reactivation for end customers
What Outerwear Fabrics Work Best with C0 DWR Coatings?
Not all fabrics bond equally with non-fluorinated DWRs. Certain weaves and yarn types show better water repellency after C0 treatment.
C0 DWRs perform best on synthetics like polyester and nylon, particularly when tightly woven or laminated. Natural fibers require extra binder layers to match performance.
Which Fabrics Perform Best with C0 Water-Repellency?
Our lab has tested dozens of combinations. Here are top performers:
| Fabric Type | C0 DWR Outcome |
|---|---|
| 100% Nylon Taslan | Excellent |
| Recycled Polyester Pongee | Very Good |
| Nylon-Spandex Softshell | Excellent |
| Cotton Twill | Moderate (needs binder) |
Get insights on fabric compatibility from Textile Exchange’s Preferred Fiber Guide and ZDHC Chemical Gateway.
Can C0 DWRs Be Applied to Eco-Fabrics Like Tencel or Hemp?
Yes, but with caveats. Cellulose fibers absorb water, so repellency is surface-limited. We’ve seen positive results with:
- Tencel™ + PU-coated backer
- Blended hemp with tight twill weave
Our best-selling eco-DWR styles combine recycled PET face + bio-based film + silicone DWR.
What Should Buyers Know When Sourcing PFC-Free DWR Outerwear Fabrics?
PFC-free sourcing isn’t just a chemical choice—it’s a compliance strategy. Buyers need to validate certifications, wash durability, and chemical inputs across the chain.
C0 DWR doesn’t mean “green” by default. You need suppliers with transparent MSDS, tested performance, and sustainable curing processes.
Which Certifications Prove a Fabric Is PFC-Free?
Look for:
- ZDHC Level 3 Approved Chemistry
- OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 + Eco Passport
- bluesign® approved formulations
- REACH Annex XVII compliance
Also ask for test reports from Intertek, SGS, or third-party labs with ISO 4920 data.
What Key Questions Should You Ask Suppliers?
- What base chemistry is your C0 finish (silicone, PU, dendrimer)?
- How many wash cycles does it retain 80% repellency?
- Is it certified by ZDHC or bluesign?
- Can you provide MSDS and Eco Passport documentation?
At Fumao, we provide these with each eco-DWR order, backed by CNAS lab verification.
Conclusion
As the outdoor industry transitions away from harmful PFCs, C0 DWR finishes are becoming the new performance standard. They offer real water repellency with none of the toxic baggage—benefiting both consumers and the planet.
At Fumao Fabric, we offer a wide portfolio of PFC-free outerwear materials tested to ISO and AATCC standards. Our sustainable finishes, combined with durable laminates and functional coatings, help brands stay compliant and competitive.
Ready to upgrade your outerwear line with C0 DWR-treated fabrics? Contact our Business Director Elaine at elaine@fumaoclothing.com to start sourcing today.
