Review on water repellent agents for textiles: Advances in green synthesis and sustainable solutions

Abstract

Water repellent agents are essential for enhancing the performance of textiles, particularly in applications such as outdoor clothing, sportswear, and industrial fabrics. Traditional methods for preparing water-repellent coatings often involve hazardous chemicals and energy-intensive processes, raising concerns about environmental sustainability. In recent years, significant progress has been made in the development of eco-friendly water-repellent agents, with a focus on using renewable raw materials, non-toxic solvents, and energy-efficient processes. This review explores the latest advancements in water repellent coatings for textiles, with particular emphasis on green chemistry approaches. The paper provides an overview of the various strategies for synthesizing water-repellent agents, discusses their advantages and challenges, and presents a comprehensive comparison of conventional and environmentally sustainable alternatives.