Waterproof And Breathable - PTFE Film Coated Fabric

1. Structure and Materials

The core of waterproof and breathable fabrics is formed by combining a microporous membrane (commonly PTFE membrane) with other base fabric materials through composite technology. PTFE membrane has millions of microscopic holes per square inch, and the diameter of these holes is smaller than the diameter of water droplets but larger than the diameter of water vapor molecules, thus preventing water molecules from penetrating while allowing sweat vapor to escape.

Base Fabric Materials: Synthetic fibers such as polyester and nylon are often used, which have excellent strength and durability.

Coating and Finishing: To enhance the waterproof performance, the fabric is usually subjected to additional coating treatment, such as DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating, which can form a water beading effect on the surface, allowing water droplets to easily slide off.

2. Performance Indicators

The performance of waterproof and breathable fabrics is usually measured by the following indicators:

Water column height: This value indicates the waterproof ability of the fabric, which is usually measured in millimeters. For example, a water column height of 5000mm means that the fabric can withstand a water column of 5 meters in height.

Moisture vapor transmission rate (MVTR): This is usually measured in grams per square meter per 24 hours (the amount of moisture that passes through the fabric per square meter per 24 hours), with a higher MVTR indicating better breathability of the fabric.

3. Application Fields

Durable waterproof and breathable fabrics are widely used in various fields due to their unique properties:

Outdoor activities: such as mountain climbing, hiking, skiing, etc., to ensure the comfort of wearers in various weather conditions.

Sportswear: used in activities such as running and cycling that require high breathability and water resistance.

Professional equipment: such as firefighter uniforms and medical protective clothing, to ensure the safety and comfort of users in special environments.

4. Maintenance and Care

The performance and lifespan of waterproof and breathable fabrics are affected by how they are used and cleaned. To maintain their optimal performance, users should pay attention to the following points:

Cleaning: Use special detergent, avoid using fabric softeners, as they may affect the fabric's breathability and waterproofness.

Drying: Avoid high-temperature drying, and it is usually recommended to air dry.

Re-coating: Over time, the DWR coating on the fabric may gradually lose its effectiveness, and it may be necessary to re-treat it with a waterproof spray.

5. Market Development

In recent years, with the rise of sustainable development concepts, many brands are developing eco-friendly waterproof and breathable fabrics. For example, using emerging technologies such as recycled materials and plant-based materials can achieve waterproof and breathable performance while reducing the impact on the environment.

In summary, waterproof and breathable fabrics are high-tech fabrics that combine multiple functions. Their applications in daily life and special occasions are becoming more and more widespread, and they may continue to evolve with the development of technology in the future.