Coatings Make Natural Fabrics Waterproof

Fabrics that resist water are essential for everything from rainwear to military tents, but conventional water-repellent coatings have been shown to persist in the environment and accumulate in our bodies, and so are likely to be phased out for safety reasons. That leaves a big gap to be filled if safe substitutes can be found. The goal is for the materials to be repellent — for the drops to bounce back.