Bionic finish
Also known as: Bionic-Finish ECO
Fluorine-free, PFAS-free hydrophobic finish by Rudolf Group biomimetically reproducing the lotus effect.
Description
Bionic-Finish is a registered trademark of Rudolf Group and refers to a water and dirt repellent textile finish that avoids per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS/PFC) entirely. The classic Bionic-Finish ECO version works with dendritic polymer structures that biomimetically imitate the lotus effect: fine hydrophobic branches form a microrough structure on the fibre surface with contact angles above 130 degrees so water beads off.
The finish is applied by pad process on a foulard and set at 150-170 degrees on a stenter. It reaches wash durability of 20-30 cycles at 40 degrees without significant loss and can be reactivated by ironing or a short tumble. Drying time of impregnated goods shortens because water beads off instead of soaking in.
Bionic-Finish ECO is bluesign certified and OEKO-TEX compliant, making it the preferred choice for eco-conscious outdoor and workwear brands. Downsides: oil repellency is weaker than PFAS-based C6 or C8 finishes, relevant for kitchen or oil workshop applications. For 95 percent of outdoor use the fluorine-free solution is entirely sufficient.
Properties
| Process | Dendritic polymers, PFAS-free |
|---|---|
| Result | Water repellent, lotus effect |
| Colour fastness | Not affected |
Related product categories
Sources & references
2- Rudolf Group Bionic-Finish ECO rudolf.de https://www.rudolf.de/
- bluesign bluesign technologies ag https://www.bluesign.com/
