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The chemistry behind the Mackintosh Raincoat

12/29/2022
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The raincoat as we know it was first created in the early 19th century in a series of discoveries. First, in 1818, James Syme published an article on a new method of softening rubber in a substance called naphtha (which Syme produced from coal tar). Then, Scottish chemist Charles Macintosh placed this "softened rubber" between two layers of fabric to create rubberized, waterproof fabric. Macintosh patented this fabric and designed the "rain coat." 

Here are some drawings of the first rubberized raincoat: 

             

Mackintosh (the "K" was added in spite of Charles Macintosh's name) raincoats are still sold today. 

 

Read more about the chemistry behind the raincoat and other types of waterproof clothing here: 

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