Plants Inspire “Forever Chemicals” Solution

A plant-inspired waterproof coating developed by chemical engineers at Washington University (WashU) in St. Louis, Missouri, could offer a sustainable, non-toxic alternative to harmful “forever chemicals”.

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are widely used across waterproof textiles, food packaging and industrial coatings, but their persistence in the environment and adverse health effects have prompted tightening regulations across the globe.

The new research details how scientists drew inspiration from suberin, a natural waterproof compound found in plant vascular systems. Led by Professor Joshua Yuan, the WashU team synthesised a bio-based coating termed SLIP (superhydrophobic lignin-integrated particles) by combining paper industry waste – specifically lignin – with long-chain fatty acids and a polylactic acid binder.

Unlike PFAS, which rely on carbon-fluorine bonds to repel moisture, SLIP features a nanostructured surface that traps pockets of air, mimicking the water-repellent lotus effect seen in nature. Tests showed water droplets bounce off the surface with performance comparable to conventional PTFE coatings, while displaying mechanical durability, ultraviolet stability and resistance to limescale.

Crucially, because SLIP is derived from natural organic matter, fungal testing proved that it biodegrades safely into harmless residues under composting conditions.

Researchers from Texas A&M University estimate that substituting PFAS with SLIP in waterproofing applications could prevent roughly $1.1 billion in annual societal and environmental damage.

The engineering team is now working with paper and biorefinery industries to scale production, while researching additions to make the material oil- and fire-resistant.

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