Nanotechnology makes everything possible, one of which is the waterproof organosilicon nanostructure material developed by the Institute of Physical Chemistry of the University of Zurich.

Organosilicon, as the basic raw material for super water-repellent treatment of textiles, is placed in a container with other materials and reacted under certain humidity conditions. The silicon nanostructure can form a strong and effective bond on the surface of the material. After one hour, a 10-15nm thick interlaced network structure composed of nanofilaments is formed on the fiber surface. Air is stored in it, which can prevent the entry of liquids (such as water, acid, alkali or solvent), thereby playing a water-repellent role, but it will not have any negative effect on the performance of the textile. The fabric can maintain moisture permeability and softness. Experiments have shown that this water-repellent effect can be maintained for one year, and it is very stable even when the textile is worn. The water-repellent effect will only be weakened under the action of strong alkaline detergents.

After such a water-repellent finishing, the warp-knitted elastic fabric can be used to produce waterproof sportswear or swimwear. Wearing a swimsuit that won't get wet can not only give people a sense of comfort, but also contribute to good health; this super-water-repellent textile can also reduce the friction coefficient in the water, and can be used as a covering material for the hull to save fuel.

Silicon nanomolecular structure can also absorb other molecular components, so it has more potential uses, including oleophilic, oil-repellent or hydrophilic treatment. I believe that with the deepening of research, it will open up more application areas for textiles, and more functional warp knitted fabrics will be born. (Supported by the Warp Knitting Research Center of Jiangnan University)