Waterproof clothing is essential for anyone who spends a lot of time outdoors. Whether hiking, cycling, skiing, or simply going for a walk, the right gear can make the difference between an exhilarating outdoor experience and a wet, uncomfortable memory. However, in recent years, the waterproof properties of membranes in outdoor clothing have been heavily debated due to the use of PFAS [PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances – also known as PFC (per- and polyfluorinated chemicals)] and solvents, which can be released into the environment during the production of the chemical and the use of the clothing. The main issue: most membranes are not recyclable because the chemicals and textiles cannot be separated. Additionally, PFAS do not occur naturally and are not degradable, which is why they are often referred to as "forever chemicals."

Dimpora provides an alternative with its revolutionary textile membrane. Founders Mario Stucki and Anna Beltzung have developed a way for their company to make fabrics completely waterproof and breathable without harming the environment.

The process is based on scientifically based, patented CoreLayer Technology, which allows membranes to be made from any polymer and thus enabling circularity. This unique technology offers a fluorine-free, fully porous, and highly breathable alternative for the outdoor textile industry. Dimpora thus provides the industry with a solution to the health and environmental challenges posed by PFAS in outdoor fashion.Get your ticket for the Impact Festival and experience Dimpora's contribution to Sustainable Chemistry live here.

The dimpora® membrane meets the requirements for mono-materiality, biodegradability, and bio-based properties, allowing the waterproofness and breathability of clothing to be tailored to the needs of consumers.

The innovative technology can be integrated into existing facilities and manufacturing processes and makes an important contribution to the circular economy. "We are committed to making outdoor clothing more sustainable by redefining performance apparel." With this exciting mission, Dimpora applied for the ISC3 Innovation Challenge 2024 of the International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre, which carries a prize of €25,000. The 23-member international jury has nominated the start-up as one of five finalists for its contribution to Sustainable Chemistry. They will pitch their ideas at the ISC3 Investor Forum, which will take place this year as part of the Impact Festival on 30 and 31 October in Frankfurt. The Innovation Challenge is part of the annual Investor Forum, through which ISC3 brings together international start-ups, investors, scientists, and decision-makers for the sixth time. This year’s central question to start-ups worldwide was: “Which innovative ideas in Sustainable Chemistry have the potential to improve the textile sector?” Over 50 start-ups from 30 countries applied. Their answers range from environmentally-friendly production and alternative business models, materials, and raw materials to the development of PFAS-free membranes, like Dimpora's.

Thanks to its unique technology, the company can develop PFAS-free membranes as high-performance alternatives that are just as waterproof and breathable. The membrane material and performance can be tailored to the needs and sustainability goals of the clients. The manufacturing process allows the use of a wide range of materials, which can be selected for a highly sustainable mono-material product that is recyclable. Dimpora is also developing bio-based and biodegradable membranes with the goal of using up to 60% bio-based materials, among other things.

“Dimpora creates waterproof textiles with alternative and recyclable PFAS-free membranes, which can make a significant contribution to a more sustainable textile industry.”