Short-Branched Fluorinated Polyurethane Coating Exhibiting Good Comprehensive Performance and Potential UV Degradation in Leather Waterproofing Modification

In the current leather market, waterproof leather occupies a large proportion, where waterproofness has become one of the important standards for leather selection. However, the most advanced fluorine-containing waterproofing agents on the market always have long chains of over eight carbons (C8), whose use has been restricted due to their bioaccumulation and recalcitrance in natural environment. Consequently, creating waterproof materials characterized by their environmentally friendly qualities and high performance is of great significance. Herein, we report a novel strategy for preparation of the fluorinated polyurethanes containing short branched fluorocarbon chains, and apply it in leather waterproofing. Because the fluorine-containing chain segments are enriched on the coating surface, the waterproof agent coating shows good hydrophobicity, low water absorption, high wear resistance and potential photodegradation of performances. Additionally, the water and oil proof performances of the coating are comparable to that of the marketed C8 waterproofing agent. Its solvent-resistant and antifouling performances are also outstanding. Therefore, the coating can meet the property requirements for daily use and has broad application prospects.

Automated summary

This study presents a novel preparation strategy for fluorinated polyurethanes containing short branched fluorocarbon chains, which show environmentally friendly qualities and high performance in leather waterproofing. The coating exhibits good hydrophobicity, low water absorption, high wear resistance, and outstanding solvent-resistant and antifouling performances, meeting the property requirements for daily use with broad application prospects.