Cromogenia drives the REPATEX project to develop PFAS-free sustainable coatings

At Cromogenia Units, we continue advancing in the development of sustainable chemical solutions with the launch of the REPATEX project (Research and synthesis of acrylic resins with water and oil repellency for paper and textile applications), an R&D initiative focused on creating safer and more environmentally friendly materials.

Addressing a global challenge

REPATEX emerges as a response to a growing global issue: the environmental and health impact of perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), widely used in industrial coatings due to their excellent repellency properties. However, their high persistence, bioaccumulation potential, and toxicity make them a serious threat to both the environment and human health.

In this context, Cromogenia Units aims to develop innovative PFAS-free acrylic resins capable of maintaining advanced water, oil, and grease repellency while eliminating the risks associated with these compounds.

Advanced coatings for paper and textiles with reduced environmental impact

The solutions developed within REPATEX are designed for two key applications:

• Textile sector: coatings with stain-resistant properties and repellency to liquids and particles.
• Paper sector: barrier materials against grease and moisture, particularly for food packaging applications.

The project focuses on the use of water-based polymer dispersions, reducing the need for solvents and toxic substances, improving process sustainability, and optimizing production costs.

Advanced acrylic technology for PFAS-free repellent coatings

The synthesis of these new resins is based on emulsion polymerization techniques, enabling the production of polymer particles in aqueous media with a high level of control over their properties. The use of acrylic monomers allows key parameters such as adhesion and resistance to be tailored according to specific application requirements.

Beyond technical development, REPATEX also includes material validation and process scale-up, from laboratory to pilot plant, with the aim of enabling future industrial production.

Collaboration and strategic impact

The project is carried out in collaboration with POLYMAT, a research institute at the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), recognized for its expertise in polymer materials.

With REPATEX, Cromogenia strengthens its position as an innovative company in sustainable materials, expanding its portfolio and reinforcing its presence in international markets, particularly in Europe, the Americas, and Asia.

With a duration of two years (2025–2026) and a budget of €618,103, REPATEX represents a significant step toward replacing hazardous substances with safer alternatives, contributing to environmental and health protection while enhancing industrial competitiveness.

The project has been co-funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and the Centre for the Development of Industrial Technology (CDTI), with the support of the Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities.