CHEM KARIS CK GUARD N-SERIES — C0 non-fluorinated water repellent agent, PFOA and PFOS-free, 100% fluorine-free textile finish
Chem Karis is a Korean chemical manufacturer, established in 2003, delivering advanced, environmentally responsible finishing solutions for the global textile industry. Our CK GUARD N-SERIES C0 Water Repellent delivers high-performance water repellency without any fluorinated chemistry at all — a response to the growing global shift toward safer, greener textile production. This guide covers what C0 water repellent is, how it works, its benefits and applications, and how it compares to our C6 fluorocarbon range.
What Is C0 Water Repellent?
C0 Water Repellent — also called non-fluorinated or fluorine-free water repellent — is a textile finish engineered entirely without perfluorinated compounds (PFCs), PFOA, or PFOS. Unlike conventional C8 or even C6-based repellents, C0 technology eliminates fluorine content altogether, making it the safest chemistry choice for both people and the environment.
CK GUARD N-SERIES is formulated to deliver reliable water repellency on cotton, blends, and synthetic fibers, while preserving the natural softness and breathability of the fabric. Both water-based and oil-based formulations are available, so manufacturers can choose the right option for apparel, home textiles, or synthetic leather production.
Why Fluorine-Free? The Shift Away From PFAS
For decades, textile water repellents relied on long-chain (C8) or short-chain (C6) fluorocarbons. Growing evidence of environmental persistence and health risk from PFOA and PFOS — sometimes called “forever chemicals” — has led to strict regulations and a global shift toward safer alternatives. Leading apparel brands and international NGOs increasingly favor C0 fluorine-free water repellents as the new standard for eco-friendly textile finishing.
C0 vs. C6 — Which Water Repellent Is Right for You?
Both chemistries meet international compliance standards, but they serve different priorities. Use this comparison to decide which fits your product line:
| C6 Fluorocarbon | C0 Fluorine-Free | |
|---|---|---|
| Fluorine content | Short-chain (6-carbon) | None |
| Oil & stain resistance | Excellent | Good to very good |
| Water resistance | Excellent | Excellent |
| Regulatory status | REACH & ZDHC compliant | Fully PFC-free |
| Best for | Technical textiles needing oil/soil resistance (outdoor, footwear, automotive) | Apparel & home textiles prioritizing a 100% fluorine-free claim |
Need oil and soil resistance as well as water repellency? See our C6 Water Repellent page for our short-chain fluorocarbon range.
Key Benefits of CK GUARD N-SERIES C0
Water droplets beading on cotton fabric treated with CHEM KARIS CK GUARD N-SERIES fluorine-free water repellent, compared to untreated fabric
How C0 Water Repellent Works
CK GUARD N-SERIES C0 is applied using standard finishing techniques such as padding, spraying, or coating. The formulation creates a durable, hydrophobic barrier on the fabric surface, so water beads up and rolls off without affecting breathability or softness. Oil-based versions can also be used as a PU coating additive for synthetic leather, improving water resistance and hydrolysis stability. As with our C6 range, dosage and process parameters are adjusted to fabric type and target performance, with technical support available for every order.
Applications Across Industries
CHEM KARIS CK GUARD N-SERIES C0 water repellent finish applied to synthetic leather for PU coating
Certifications & Compliance
Chem Karis holds a compliance record trusted by global apparel, footwear, and industrial brands:
Manufacturing & Custom Support You Can Trust
Chem Karis has been manufacturing specialty textile and industrial chemicals in Korea since 2003. Our in-house production and quality-control facilities let us offer custom formulation, small-batch samples, and large-scale bulk supply from the same site, so the product you test is the product you scale with.
Every textile manufacturer has different requirements, so our technical team works closely with you from product formulation through application guidance — whether you need a few liters for lab trials or full IBC/drum quantities for production, each batch is manufactured to your exact specification.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is C0 Water Repellent as effective as fluorinated alternatives?
A: Yes, Chem Karis C0 Water Repellent delivers excellent water repellency and wash durability, while being safer for people and the environment.
Q: What is the difference between C0 and C6 water repellent?
A: C0 is completely fluorine-free. C6 uses short-chain fluorocarbon chemistry and delivers the strongest oil and soil resistance alongside water repellency. See our C6 Water Repellent page to compare.
Q: Can I use C0 Water Repellent on all types of textiles?
A: Absolutely. Our formulations are suitable for cotton, blends, synthetics, and even synthetic leather.
Q: How can I request samples or technical support?
A: Please contact us through our official website or by phone. We provide free samples; you only need to cover the shipping cost with your courier account.
Q: How quickly can I get a quote?
A: Our sales team will respond with pricing within 24 hours.
For the decision framework — when fluorine-free C0 is the right specification and when it is not — see Why Choose C0 Non-Fluorinated Repellent.
