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11-21-2008
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How Nikwax Works |
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How Nikwax Works
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| To minimize contact with a Nikwax treated material, water beads up. |
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When force is applied, such as rain hitting the surface, water droplets distort but won't enter the fabric. |
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Water resists contact with the water-repellent fibers and moves back to the surface. |
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What's in Nikwax and how does it work?
Many years ago, Nick Brown the inventor of Nikwax, developed and patented the Nikwax TX.10i water-repellent elastomer. The TX.10i elastomer was based on EVA, the same material found in the flexible soles of footwear. The patent also involved altering the molecular structure of mineral wax which is typically brittle. This strengthens the molecule making it very elastic and resilient. This TX.10i polymer was the primary active ingredient in all Nikwax footwear and fabric treatments.
Nikwax treatments coat fabric and leather fibres with a network of elastic TX.10i water-repellent molecules. They bond to anything that is not water-repellent, but leave the spaces between fibres open and breathable. Nikwax treatments can flex and move with the fabric and leather fibres. That is why Nikwax treatments can withstand several washings and remain whereas the competitors must be re-applied after each wash.
The TX.10i elastomer adds tear strength to fabrics as well. Enhanced tear resistance is achieved through lubrication of the fabric which allows the fibres to slide easily over one another. the treatments also coat the fibres with the elastic polymer that is resilient and allows the fibres to flex a limited amount and return to their original position. This reduces the stress at the intersection of the fibres adding tear strength to the fabric.
In 2004-5, Nikwax introduced a new and improved active elastomer. The culmination of several years research, these new class of formulations bring better value for money due to increased number of doses from one bottle and an even more durable finish. Unlike flurorcarbon products, you do not need to heat garment to activate the waterproofing treatment. This new class of formulations is being carried across the range so watch out for even greater performance from Nikwax in the future.
Unique to Nikwax, it is the technology that keeps you drier in the outdoors.
Nikwax - Easier, Safer, Drier
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