Composition of impregnations
Any impregnation consists of two main components - an active substance and a solvent. Modern DWRs can be hydrocarbon-based or water-based.
Hydrocarbon DWRs contain fluorocarbon resins, where the active ingredient is most often polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE, Teflon). Polytetrafluoroethylene molecules are about four times weaker than water molecules. In terms of attractiveness, polytetrafluoroethylene is inferior to many substances, so the surface covered with it seems slippery and even greasy to the touch.
However, such impregnations are considered not only durable, but also harmful. They have a strong chemical solvent odor and should only be applied to dry items and should be processed outdoors. However, the greatest environmental problems arise even at the production stage, when the use of harmful substances is carried out on an industrial scale. It is not for nothing that in recent years in the outdoor industry there have been more and more discussions about the negative impact of perfluorinated compounds on the environment. There was a request to search for solutions that minimize the harmful effects of DWR on humans and nature.
Water-based impregnations are considered more environmentally friendly, they do not contain toxic solvents and do not have such a strong odor. They can be applied to both dry and wet items. These DWRs contain silicone, which does not attract water molecules much more than polytetrafluoroethylene.
According to the method of application, DWRs come in the form of liquids in small containers or in the form of sprays. Liquid DWRs are applied either immediately after washing - the product is immersed in water with a solution for a while - or applied with a foam sponge, squeezing the solution out of the tube. Sprays are convenient to use in hiking conditions.
The basic rule of processing any impregnation is a thing shouldn't be dirty.
The most famous manufacturers of modern water-repellent impregnations on the Russian market are Granger`s, Nikwax, Storm Waterproofing, Woly Sport, Holmenkol, Toko, Salamander, Kongur, Collonil.
Purpose and application
To make the fabric water-repellent, special impregnations are used for it. The impregnation itself is not needed for the membrane, but for its front side. Because basically, only the outer layer of things or shoes is exposed to water.
Membrane cover
What happens if the product gets wet without impregnation?
- Moisture absorbed by the threads will fill all air spaces in the garment and create a problem for steam to escape freely. The breathability of the fabric will drop sharply - the vapors have nowhere to go and the person will sweat.
- If the material gets wet, then the overall thermal conductivity of the layer of clothing will increase - that is, it will be cold in it.
- Wet clothes immediately become heavy.
To avoid such problems, you can use DWR impregnation.
For outdoor furniture
Waterproof fabric for outdoor furniture is created from synthetic yarns that are highly durable.
Street furniture
Attention! Materials made of acrylic have the highest properties, and they feel the same as soft fabrics made from natural threads. In addition, during production, impregnations are always used, which give the material moisture-repellent characteristics and resistance to adhesion of dirt.
They mainly use furniture fabrics in large shopping centers, garden furniture.
For clothes
To create waterproof fabrics for clothes, materials are mainly used that contain 100% polyester, with a layer of special impregnation.
They are the most common in the textile industry today.
More and more, synthetic waterproof Oxford fabric is gaining popularity in the manufacture of children's and sportswear, as well as equipment for outdoor activities.
Hunting outfit
In the process of industrial production, it is treated with a polyurethane film layer, which makes things waterproof.In production, both 100% polyester and 100% nylon can be used. These materials are resistant to dirt, abrasion and mechanical defects, but nylon items are very cheap and lightweight, and they also have high elasticity.
Washing process
For covers
Mostly used waterproof fabric for Jordan covers. Its surface is thick, smooth with a slight sheen and characteristic shimmer. It is quite soft and pleasant to the touch. The material stands out for its increased dimensional stability: during use, a waterproof fabric, it does not stretch and does not shrink after washing.
The milky look is widely used with a gray water-repellent coating, which is applied to the back of the product. In addition, a double waterproof fabric with jersey inside is also made, which is used when sewing warm clothes.
Membrane tissue diagram
The versatility of this fabric allows it to be used for sportswear and suits, jackets and down jackets, some shoes, bags, covers and many different things. You can easily paint in the most juicy shades, for the covers, there is mainly camouflage and marsh color.
Advantages and disadvantages
Pros and cons of water repellent fabric:
Such materials have a number of positive qualities in comparison with other types of textiles:
- Diagonal weave. A special weaving technique allows you to achieve high water-repellent properties of the fabric.
- High density. The moisture-resistant fabric has a smooth and slippery surface, from which water droplets flow freely and do not fall into the depths.
- Versatility, comfort and practicality. The synthetic thread in the structure of the fabric helps to achieve increased consumer properties: bright color, strength, high durability and long service life of finished items.
Water repellency process
Cons of such clothes:
- Pronounced disadvantages are characteristic of inexpensive materials consisting mainly of 100% synthetic thread. They are leaky and not safe to wear.
- Good membrane clothing is very expensive.
- It can be damaged by improper washing.
- Short-lived.
- For such things, you need special thermal underwear.
garden furniture
It is necessary to remember about the care of such fabric. Before using the impregnation, the thing must be washed, for this it is necessary to use the following rules:
- First, check the product tag. There may be instructions on it.
- The washing machine must be completely clean, if there are powder residues, they must be removed with a damp cloth. This is a very important point.
- Use only liquid detergents for membrane materials.
- The temperature during washing should be no more than 40 degrees, otherwise the clothes will lose their properties.
Type of fabric Tarpaulin
- Rinsing is carried out several times until the water becomes clear.
- It is allowed to wring out the product, but at low speed. The machine simply will not be able to completely wring out the product, so it will be very heavy when taken out.
Important! Do not use conditioners, stain removers or bleaches, they can damage the integrity of the product. Recommended to dry at room temperature, in an upright position
Avoid direct sunlight in order not to damage the structure and properties of the material.
Children's costume option
In conclusion, it should be emphasized that things made of waterproof materials are gaining popularity. Previously, these were only suits for fishermen and hunters, now almost everything can be made from such fabric, from outerwear to car covers.
Mode of application
Shake the can thoroughly before applying aerosol impregnation. Keeping it at a distance of 25 centimeters from the fabric to be treated, apply a thin layer of coating on a previously degreased surface, then let it dry.This procedure should be carried out regularly, because as a result of washing with harsh cleaning agents, the protective layer is gradually destroyed.
Special impregnation
It differs from the universal one in that it is intended exclusively for a certain type of fabric. Due to the unique chemical composition, certain substances intended for one material can adversely affect another type of fabric. If you use an impregnation for leather, the wax contained in it can adversely affect the quality of, for example, suede items. There is a special impregnation for suede and leather.
Before using such a coating, make sure that you are doing this procedure only with a suitable material. Neglecting this rule can negatively affect the quality of the fabric and irrevocably spoil it.
Classification of water-repellent impregnations according to the degree of protection
Water-repellent impregnations are divided not only by purpose, but also by their resistance to washing off. This characteristic is reflected in the abbreviation (WR, DWR or SDWR) and indicates the number of "washes" after which the water-repellent coating retains 80% efficiency. Efficiency in this case means the area of the fabric that has retained the ability to repel water.
The abbreviations used relate primarily to factory technologies for applying water-repellent impregnations. The type of factory processing can be found either from the label or from the description of the product or material on the manufacturer's website.
WR (Water Repellent) - 5/80
Weakest stability. On average, such an impregnation loses 20% of its effectiveness after 5 washes.
DWR (Durable Water Repellent) - 10 / 80-20 / 80
Normal stability. Most of the membrane storm jackets are covered with just such a coating. Retains 80% efficiency after 10–20 washes.
SDWR (Super Durable Water Repellent) - 50 / 80-100 / 80
High stability. Typical for impregnations used in membrane materials and top-class products. Retains 80% efficiency after 50-100 washes.
The word "wash" is not in vain in quotation marks. Unfortunately, manufacturers prefer not to mention the fact that washing in their understanding is a simple rinsing of a product in warm water in a gentle mode and without any detergents. As soon as the owner of the product starts using detergents, the picture changes.
When washing with the use of special shampoos intended for the care of membrane fabrics, the stability indicators of the impregnations fall by about 5 times. That is, the WR impregnation will have to be restored after the first wash, and DWR after about the third.
In the case of using ordinary washing powder, the situation is even worse - most of the water-repellent impregnations will not withstand even one such wash.
The use of impregnation in sports
Everyone knows that treated fabric retains its hydrophobic properties for no more than a year. An integral part (waterproof apron) in a sports boat must strictly fulfill its purpose, that is, protect the kayak from excessive flooding with water. Sewing a protective apron is not difficult, it is much more difficult to properly process it, protect it from moisture. There are many recipes for how to prepare a water-repellent impregnation with your own hands. Components such as synthetic resins, wax, paraffin, fats, polystyrene, polyisobutylene are often used. Below is the recipe that was used to make the impregnation back in 1958. Studies have shown that the treated aprons remained waterproof throughout the summer season.
So, the components used are:
- A solution of paraffin in turpentine 15-20% - 100-200 hours
- A solution of polystyrene in toluene 12% - 100 h.
- A solution of low molecular weight polyisobutylene in toluene 4% - 400 h.
- Solvents (turpentine and toluene) are added as needed to obtain the desired consistency.
The fabric is impregnated evenly with the obtained solution, dried in natural conditions. If in some places the fabric begins to pass water, the impregnation must be repeated.
The best water-repellent impregnations for premium shoes
Expensive shoe care products are used in wet weather and frequent walking, so that after walking in the rain, shoes or boots remain dry and comfortable in them. This is useful for impregnating expensive shoes used to go to school or work.
Salton protection 360 ml - a giant for a large family
It is the best water-repellent impregnation for shoes in the case of a large family, because its volume is 360 ml, which is 1.5 times the capacity of standard products. The substance is applied by spraying and is suitable for shoes and boots of any color, since it is completely transparent.
The agent is allowed to be applied even to the membrane surface, since the moisture will return to where it will be removed.
Pros:
- long lasting effect up to 24 hours;
- aerosol retains its beneficial properties when stored in a can for up to 5 years;
- the volume of 360 ml is advantageous compared to other options;
- suitable for leather, fabrics, suede;
- it is allowed to use over cream or paint;
- natural fluorocarbon resin in the composition;
- helps to mask scratches;
- easy way to use;
- after processing, dirt adheres less to the surface;
- cumulative effect, requiring less application in subsequent times.
Minuses:
- cost from 250 rubles;
- cannot be used on nubuck.
Salamander Universal SMS - quality leader
This is the best water-repellent impregnation for shoes from the German brand with the logo of the running lizard, which has the longest duration - from one use the effect lasts up to 15 days.
The versatility of the substance is achieved due to the suitability of interaction with all types of materials from natural leather to nubuck and fabrics.
The product is sold in a beautiful bottle with a rounded top-top, easy to press. Available in 250 ml, but there are also promotional options with an additional 20%, resulting in a total of 300 ml.
Pros:
- convenient method of application;
- suitability for all materials used to make shoes;
- long-term effect;
- protects not only from moisture penetration, but also prevents the formation of salt streaks on the surface;
- contains silicone oil and silicone wax;
- does not deplete the ozone layer;
- the product retains its properties in a container for 3 years;
- supplied with a seal that allows you to control the fact of the integrity of the goods.
Minuses:
- cost from 290 rubles;
- hazardous to inhalation;
- requires drying for at least 30 minutes before going out, and for best results requires self-drying 8-10 hours.
Salamander Nubuk Velours - with tint effect
It is the best water-repellent touch-up effect for shoes that refreshes existing blacks. The substance is used for velor, suede, leather and nubuck.
Available in cans of 250 ml and applied by aerosol spraying. Thanks to its application, dirt does not stick to the surface and the shoes will always look clean.
Pros:
- deeply impregnates the material and protects against moisture penetration into the fabric structure;
- refreshes the color, helping to paint over scratches, scuffs;
- significantly extends the life of the shoe;
- in the composition of a fluorocarbon polymer and silicone oil;
- shelf life in a can up to 5 years;
- easy application with visual control of the traversed areas thanks to the pigment in the composition.
Minuses:
- cost from 310 rubles;
- requires preliminary closure of sole welts and inserts of a different color in order to avoid staining;
- needs long drying;
- only suitable for black shoes.
Waterproof fabric: name and types
The water-repellent fabric is made of polyester and nylon. The most common types:
- Taffeta. Made of nylon or polyester, backed with protective foil. This soft dense material has an increased vapor absorption system, does not deteriorate under the influence of water, does not change tone and does not shrink during washing. Mostly used as a lining fabric. Mostly winter jackets are made from it.
- Taslan. The material is polyamide, it has a special appearance, similar to a small scar formed due to the rep weaving of threads. Protected from moisture and dirt by milky impregnation. Also removes sweat. Favorite fabric in the industry for making jackets.
Weaving matting
- Oxford. Dense, coarse, moisture-repellent fabric, when it is created, weaving "matting" is used. Very resistant to chemicals, has high durability and heat resistance.
- Duspo. Of all the waterproof materials, Duspo has a matte finish that makes things look chic. He enjoys great success in the creation of children's multi-season clothing.
- Membrane. The material is created using new technologies, it has complete impermeability and protection from drafts. It is created by spraying a transparent polymeric porous mesh onto a synthetic canvas. Items made from the membrane perfectly repel water, do not get wet in the rain, are used in the manufacture of overalls for rescuers, equipment for mountain sports, etc.
- Acrylic. It tolerates frost well enough, and is resistant to water and dirt. It is made in half with natural and synthetic fabrics. Very durable material.
- Tyvek. Lightweight yet dense waterproof fabric. It is mainly used for making tents, car covers and tents.
Tyvek
Tarpaulin. Has increased properties of wear resistance and water resistance. Has a hydrophobic membrane.
Application area
Refractory impregnations are mainly used for the processing of overalls for firefighters, workers, metallurgists and representatives of other hazardous professions. But the scope of application of water-repellent agents is wider, and they are used for processing:
- protective clothing;
- jacket fabric;
- tents;
- backpacks and bags;
- belts;
- furniture;
- tablecloths;
- awnings and awnings for the street;
- raincoat fabric.
The water-repellent treatment not only retains moisture, but is also dirt-repellent. Most light to medium soiling is not scary for such a material, since the dirt, consisting of large molecules, does not absorb into the fibers and is easily cleaned off.
General points of use
It is worthwhile to devote a little time to the types of existing impregnations.
Applied by adding to water
There is a process for processing fabrics, which implies one hundred percent protection from moisture by immersing the fabric in a special aqueous solution. This method saves a lot of time and can also combine washing, rinsing and chemical treatment. At the end of this procedure, the thing should be completely dry.
Spray applied
Hydrocarbon based impregnations are sold as aerosols. The most important thing worth noting is the method of applying this kind of substance, namely, this should be done only in well-ventilated rooms and in order for the dirt-repellent coating to lay down evenly, the surface of the fabric should be slightly damp.
Casein based impregnation
There is also a third type of impregnation.It differs in that it is composed of several types of fat and also contains a chemical called casein. Its main feature is universal sealing of both hard and soft fabrics, including synthetic ones. Possessing unique properties, this type of impregnation is well suited for processing tourist equipment.
All manipulations on materials should be carried out exclusively after it has been degreased, otherwise the protective coating will be unevenly distributed over the surface of the fabric, which will not provide absolute protection against moisture.
When processing fabric in an aqueous solution, care must be taken to ensure that there is a completely uniform coating of the material with the substance. In order to make sure that the whole process is going well, you can knead the fabric yourself with your own hands. Using soap solutions, you should prepare soap in advance, which will then need to be crushed into small pieces and dissolved in warm water.
Good producers
To provide a complete picture of modern water-repellent impregnations and companies for the production of related products, it would be advisable to familiarize yourself with the table of popular market participants.
| Manufacturer | Country | Advantages | Other products | Peculiarities |
| Woly sport | Germany | Wide assortment, narrow profile, convenience | Aerosols and impregnations against moisture and dirt, liquid detergents for shoes and clothes, protective and refreshing compounds | Especially loved in the domestic chain of sporting goods stores |
| Nikwax Waterproofing | England | Famous brand, high quality and technology | Water-repellent impregnation for shoes, clothes, equipment | Small volume probes are found |
| Holmenkol | Germany | Advanced materials plus proven technology | Stain remover, detergent, delicate wash of thermal underwear, wool, sprays, wax, impregnation | Price 600-1000 rubles, available in many Russian sports stores |
| Grangers | England | High quality, recommendations of the world's leading clothing manufacturers | Means for clothes, shoes, equipment | One of the oldest companies in the field |
| Storm Waterproofing | England | High technology, application not only for clothing, footwear, but also for tourist equipment | Liquids for different purposes and different methods of application | There is 15 years |
| Fibertec | Netherlands, Germany | For any fillings and types of fabrics | Wax, textile spray, laundry detergent, moisture and dirt protection spray | Available in online stores |
| Jack wolfskin | Germany | We replaced non-environmentally friendly components with harmless ones | Paste, rubbing, impregnation + detergent, sprays | Each product costs from 1000 rubles, it is very famous and widespread in Russia, has an impeccable reputation |
| Scothgard | Germany, USA | The line is not too wide, but effective, with the main points | Cleaner, spray for clothes, shoe impregnation, protective aerosols | Manufacturers of adhesive tape and famous insulation |
| Tectron | USA | Water formulations with the possibility of material recovery, there is a product with the addition of silver ions | Impregnation for non-membrane materials, wax for leather, impregnation for nubuck, etc. | In the Russian Federation, a rarity, a subsidiary of the shoe corporation Implus |
| KONGUR | Russia | Means for the most part are universal | Impregnation for membrane clothing, textiles and down | Compact packaging, cylinders fit into a backpack, bag |
| TOKO | Switzerland | Produces lubricant for winter sports | Lots of products for clothes and shoes for every taste | Has a hundred-year history, it is trusted by most athletes |
| Atsko | USA | Multifunctional products, high price | Sprays, wax to protect clothes, shoes from rain and sun | In Russia, this brand is a rare guest |
| Salamander Professional | Germany | Leader among shoe care products, environmentally friendly, high-quality products, a wide range | Lotion, foam, deodorant, cream, impregnation aerosol, milk for all types of shoes | An extensive line of products, the richest properties, the unconditional trust of millions of users around the world |
| Salton | Germany | The world famous large brand operating on the unique MINK OIL technology | Deodorant for shoes, shampoo for washing clothes, foam cleaner, spray protection for shoes | Nutrition, protection, shine and freshness of the color of shoes from any material |
| Obenauf's | USA | premium leather shoe impregnation agent | Wax, oil, shoe spray | Hot applied with a hair dryer, protective wax |
| Collonil | Austria | A wide range, a huge specialized plant, a long history of the company | Spray for leather, nubuck and velor | It has existed since 1909, many products have been developed, natural wax and oil components are used |
| Tarrago | France | Extensive product line, several series of products | High-tech, Sport, Trekking | The brand was founded in 1940, since 1960 has been operating as a company for the production of chemical products for shoes |
The climate in Russia is harsh and unpredictable. The abundance of snow and wind is replaced by an abundance of moisture, and then - the sun. Suede boots, school backpack, windbreaker and fabric gloves will be protected by a special spray that prevents moisture from penetrating into the fabric structure. Special compounds will also help you not to get wet, which need to be added during washing and "sealed" in the fabric with hot steam. Take care of yourself and your clothes.
Outcomes
The hydrophobic coating is created thanks to a universal chemical compound that reliably protects any kind of fabric from moisture. Before proceeding with the processing of the material, you should fully make sure that this type of impregnation is intended specifically for this fabric. This means that by treating the material with the wrong substance, you can only achieve a negative effect.
It should be remembered that an impregnation made on the basis of emulsion compounds is most suitable for processing suede.
You must always remember about safety measures, avoid sources of open flame when using fat-containing impregnation
This is especially true for those who go on a hike and treat the tent with this type of substance.
Carefully approach the choice of quality products and pay attention to the composition. Often, unscrupulous manufacturers hide the real components of their products from the buyer.
The laconic composition may indicate that cheap silicone compounds were used in the production of impregnation, which were not able to provide the proper level of protection.
When applying impregnation, try to ensure that the fabric is completely immersed in the solution. Check its condition with your own hands. This will contribute to the uniform penetration of the substance into the structure of the tissue, which will serve as a good protection for a long time. Negligence in this process can lead to spoiled clothes, as a result of the destruction of the hydrophobic layer and, as a result, the ingress of dirt.
Make sure that the surface of the processed material is completely free of grease.
Renew the coating in time and monitor the flow capacity of the fabric.
This product can be used both in everyday life and in sports to maintain the tightness of the equipment. People who often like to go on tourist approaches simply need to have a water-repellent impregnation with them, because its composition is perfect for processing synthetic fabrics of a backpack and tent, and making it with your own hands increases the availability of the product.
The problem of wet boots and boots, especially during the spring thaw, worries many citizens of our country. Residents of the southern regions do this all winter long. The way out of this situation is water-repellent shoes, but they can sometimes fail. Regardless of whether there was such an impregnation on your shoes or not, you can do it yourself and, thereby, protect not only the boots themselves, but also your legs from moisture.
Materials (edit)
To make water-repellent impregnation of boots with your own hands, you will need:
- the boots or boots themselves;
- wax candle;
- cotton fabric.
Step 1
... First, you will need to prepare your shoes. Its surface must be free from dirt and dust, and the boots themselves must be completely dry.
Please note that porous materials such as leather, cotton, nylon, canvas, etc. are suitable for this water-repellent treatment.
Step 2
... To make the base for the impregnation fit better and more uniformly on the surface of the boots, warm it up with a hairdryer.
Step 3
... Take WAX CANDLE. It is desirable that it be the most common without dyes, glitters and other things. Use a candle to rub the entire surface of the shoe. Rub thoroughly, not missing a single area; for this, install good lighting in the place where you will be doing all the work.
Step 4
... After completely covering the surface of your shoes with wax, turn on the hair dryer. Set it to the highest temperature and start blowing the waxed material. Under the influence of hot air, it will begin to melt and be absorbed into the surface of the boots.
After the procedure, you can take a strip of cloth and rub on your shoes. Test the applied water repellent layer in action. You can apply two or three coats of wax if necessary, but do not overdo it so that the material of the shoes or boots does not become rough.
What is the essence of water-repellent impregnation? How does this miracle substance work? What types of impregnations exist, for what materials? Let's take a closer look at these issues.