Dow launches emulsion for superior, eco-friendly water repellent textiles

Dow has introduced the DOWSIL IE-9100 Emulsion, a new addition to its Dow Ecolibrium Brand portfolio, designed to meet the textile industry’s demand for durable, high-performance water repellent (DWR) fabrics. The product is an 81-percent bio-based silicone-organic hybrid, recognized with both the R&D 100 Award and the SEAL Sustainable Product Award.

This innovative emulsion provides water repellency comparable to traditional fluoro-based products, making it an ideal solution for high-performance outerwear, athleticwear, outdoor gear, personal protective equipment, and footwear.

DOWSIL IE-9100 Emulsion allows formulators and brand owners to customize the level of water repellency while offering added benefits such as stain protection, color fastness, tape adhesion, and logo printability. It is compatible with natural and synthetic fibers and maintains fabric breathability, ensuring maximum comfort.

Certified OEKO-TEX ECO PASSPORT, the emulsion is easy to use within standard manufacturing processes, providing sustainable solutions to finishing mills and supporting brand owners in their pursuit of improved performance and sustainability.

“We developed this Ecolibrium Durable Water Repellent Technology to help brands enhance fabric performance and meet sustainability goals,” said Isabelle Riff, Dow Marketing Leader, Textiles EMEAI. Yusuke Kuwana, Dow Marketing Leader, Textiles Asia, added, “We look forward to helping textile formulators explore new possibilities with this powerful emulsion.”