A team of students from the University of Texas at Austin has developed a textile treatment made from corn-derived protein and beeswax that could help fabrics resist water and dirt without using fluorinated chemicals.

Called Maízein Movement, the treatment combines zein, a protein obtained from corn, with beeswax and binds the materials to cellulose fibres. The resulting fabric is designed to provide water and soil resistance while maintaining the fabric’s appearance and feel.

The students see the treatment as a possible alternative to PFAS-based finishes, which have traditionally been used in textiles to provide water, grease and stain resistance. The development comes as the textile industry continues to explore safer and more environmentally responsible options for achieving similar performance.

According to the project description published by the Biodesign Challenge, durability testing and chemical analysis showed that the treated fabrics could resist water while causing only minor changes to their appearance, feel and durability. However, detailed test results, including numerical performance data, washing tests and comparisons with existing commercial finishes, have not been publicly provided.