WATER PROOF FABRICS

TYPES OF FABRICS

METHODS OF MAKING

WATERPROOF

PROPERTIES OF FABRIC

SUBMITTED BY:-

PRERNA SHRUTI,16 RAHUL ANAND,31 SAURABH DAVIS KUJUR,33 APPAREL PRODUCTION-4 NIFT,KOLKATA. DATE:- 13/04/09.

Water proof fabricsIndia is increasing total wealth and per capita income per head. The rapid spread ofsatellite television is globalising the vision of the healthy lifestyle and spreadingknowledge of sports and leisure wears from country to country. Due to consumers becoming more and more conscious for the comfort of the garments that they arewearing. As a result new fibres and fabrics are emerging out for satisfying thestringent needs.The paper reviews various works done in development of waterproof, breathablesportswear textiles. The moisture transport properties and various factors affecting itare also discussed for sportswear fabrics using different fibres. The various brandedfibres and fabrics have been described along with their constitutional elements andspecial characteristics.

IntroductionWaterproof breathable fabrics are designed for use in garments that provide protection from the environmental factors like wind, rain and loss of body heat. Waterproof fabric completely prevents the penetration and absorption of liquid water. The term breathable implies that the fabric is actively ventilated. Breathable fabrics passively allow water vapour to diffuse through them yet prevents the penetration of liquid water. High functional fabrics support active sportswear with importance placed on high functions as well as comfort. Finally, materials with heating and/or cooling property have newly attracted the interest of the market. All these materials do not pursue a single function, but different functional properties combined on a higher level.Fabrics that can convey water vapor from body perspiration out through the material while remaining impervious to external liquids such as rainwater are widely used in sportswear and similar applications. Water-resistant and moisture-permeable materials may be divided into three main categories - high-density fabrics, resin-coated materials and film-laminated materials - which are selected by manufacturers according to the finished garment requirements in casual, athletics, ski or outdoor apparel.

Densely woven water breathable fabrics

The densely woven waterproof breathable fabrics consist of cotton or syntheticmicrofilament yarns with compacted weave structure. One of the famous waterproof breathable fabrics known as VENTILE was manufactured by using long staple cotton with minimum of spaces between the fibres1. Usually combed yarns are weaved parallel to each other with no pores for water to penetrate. Usually oxford weave is used. When fabric surface is wetted by water the cotton fibres swell transversely reducing the size of pores in the fabric and requiring very high pressure to cause penetration. Therefore waterproof is provided without the application of any waterrepellent finishing treatment. Densely woven fabrics can also be produced from micro-denier synthetic filament yarns. The individual filaments in these yarns are of less than 10 micron in diameter, so that fabrics with very small pores can be engineered.

Laminated waterproof breathable fabrics.Laminated waterproof breathable fabrics made by application of membranes into textile product. These are thin membrane made from polymeric materials. They offer high resistance to water penetration but allow water vapour at the same time. The maximum thickness of the membrane is 10 micron. They are of two types:

1) Micro porous membranes

2) Hydrophilic membranes.

The micro porous membranes have tiny holes on their surface smaller than a rain drops but larger than water vapour molecule. Some of the membranes are made from Polytetrafluoroethylene PTFE polymer , Polyvinylidene fluoride PVDF, etc2,3.The hydrophilic membranes are thin films of chemically modified polyester orpolyurethane. These polymers are modified by the incorporation of poly. The poly (ethylene oxide)4 constitutes the hydrophilic part of the membrane by forming amorphous region in the main polymer system. This amorphous region acts as intermolecular pores allowing water vapour molecules to pass through but preventing the penetration of liquid water due to the solid nature of the membrane.

Coated waterproof breathable fabrics.

Coated fabrics with waterproof breathable fabrics consist of polymeric materialapplied to one surface of fabric. Polyurethane is used as the coating material. The coatings are of two types:

1) Micro porous membranes

2) Hydrophilic membranes.

In microporous membrane the coating contains very fine interconnected channels much smaller than finest raindrop but larger than water vapour molecules.Hydrophilic coatings is same as hydrophilic membrane but the difference between the microporous and hydrophilic material is the former water vapour passes through the permanent air-permeable structure whereas the later transmits vapour through mechanism involving adsorption-diffusion and de-sorption.

The desirable attributes of functional sportswear and leisurewear are as follows6:Optimum heat and moisture regulationGood air and water vapour permeabilityRapid moisture absorption and conveyance capacityAbsence of dampnessRapid drying to prevent catching coldLow water absorption of the layer of clothing just positioned to the skinDimensionally stable even when wetDurableEasy careLightweightSoft and pleasant touch

It is not possible to achieve all of these properties in a simple structure of any single fiber or their blend7. The two layer structure has layer close to skin of the wicking type comprised of synthetic fibers e.g. micro-denier polyester and the outer layer usually cotton or rayon that absorbs and evaporates. Micro denier

polyester is ideal for wicking perspiration away from the skin. The use of superfine or microfibre yarn enables production of dense fabrics leading to capillary action that gives the bestwicking properties.No single fibre or blend of different fibres can give ideal sportswear. The right type of fibre should be in the right place. Blending of fibres does not give the same effect as that of multi-layer fabric. The wicking behaviour of the fabric is mainly depending on its base fibres moisture properties.

MOISTURE TRANSPORT MECHANISM

The mechanism by which moisture is transported in textiles is similar to the wicking of a liquid in capillaries. Capillary action is determined by two fundamental properties of the capillary:

Its diameter; and

Surface energy of its inside face.

The smaller the diameter or the greater the surface energy, the greater the tendency of a liquid to move up the capillary. In textile structures, the spaces between the fibres effectively form capillaries. Hence, the narrower the spaces between these fibres, thegreater the ability of the textile to wick moisture. Fabric constructions, which effectively form narrow capillaries, pick up moisture easily. Such constructions include fabrics made from micro fibres, which are packed closely together. However, capillary action ceases when all parts of a garment are equally wet.

The surface energy in a textile structure is determined largely by the chemicalstructure of the exposed surface of the fibre, as follows :

Hydrophilic fibres have a high surface energy. Consequently, they pick upmoisture more readily than hydrophobic fibres.

Hydrophobic fibres, by contrast, have low surface energy and repel moisture.Special finishing processes can be used to increase the difference in surface energy between the face of a fabric and the back of the fabric to enhance its ability to wick.

FACTORS AFFECTING MOISTURE TRANSPORT

There are several factors, which affect moisture transport in a fabric. The mostimportant are:

Fibre type;

Cloth construction or weave;

Weight or thickness of the material; and

Presence of chemical treatments.

Synthetic fibres can have either hydrophilic (wetting) surfaces or hydrophobic (nonwetting) surfaces. They also have a range of bulk absorbencies, usually reported by suppliers and testing organisations as the percentage moisture regain1 by weight.Synthetic fabrics are generally considered to be the best choice for garments worn as a base layer. This is because they are able to provide a good combination of moisture management, softness and insulation.While most fabrics, both natural and synthetic, have the ability to wick moisture away from the skin, not all of these are fast-drying and air permeable-two factors, which have a direct influence on cooling and perceived comfort. High-tech synthetic fabrics are lightweight, are capable of transporting moisture efficiently, and dry relatively quickly.It is generally agreed that fabrics with moisture wicking properties can regulate body temperature, improve muscle performance and delay exhaustion. While natural fibres such as cotton may be suitable for clothing worn for low levels of activity, synthetic fabrics made of nylon or polyester are better suited for high levels of activity. They absorb much less water than cotton, but can still wick moisture rapidly through the fabric.

The main parameters for comfort and functionality are:

Water and wind proof, breathability and comfort.

Moisture/Sweat management.

Warmth/temperature control.

Easy-care performance.

Smart and functional design.

PolyesterPolyester has outstanding dimensional stability and offer excellent resistance to dirt, alkalis, decay, mold and most common organic solvents. Being durable, yetlightweight, polyester has elasticity and a comfortable smooth feel or “soft hand”.These are all important qualities to consumers for a wide variety outerwear andrecreational applications. Excellent heat resistance or thermal stability is also anattribute of polyester. It is the fibre used most commonly in base fabrics for active wear because of its low moisture absorption, easy care properties and low cost.Polyester is essentially hydrophobic and does not absorb moisture. However, most polyester used in base layer clothing is chemically treated so that they are able to wick moisture. This can be done by:

Coating the polyester with a hydrophilic finish; or

Changing its surface chemistry to improve its wetting by moisture.

Changing the surface chemistry of the polyester involves introducing free hydroxyl groups into molecules on the surface of the filament. The result is a de structuring of water, causing wetting. The combination of opposing properties-a hydrophobic core and a hydrophilic surface-creates a fabric in which the fibres encourage moisture to migrate through the fabric along the outer surface of the filament while the hydrophobic core does not absorb moisture.The main disadvantage of chemical or molecular modification is that it is more costly for the fabric manufacturer. However, the effect on the fabric is

"permanent". To be classified as permanent, it has to have the capability to withstand at least 50 home washings. Most coatings, by contrast, have an average lifespan of five home washings.Toray develops airfine Fieldsensor which is made from a polyester filament yarnwhich has the grooves help the fabric absorb sweat quickly and disperse it along the surface. Company claims that the moisture absorbing and dispersing property of the new material is twice a great as its former Fieldsensor fabric.Polyester coolmax has been claimed to increase wearer comfort through rapidremoval of perspiration by capillary. Also it has good wicking properties and nonabsorbency.Coolmax and thermostat polyester fibers used in two fold garmentsclaimed to wick moisture away from the skin (the former) and to maintain warmth (the later).

Polypropylene

Polypropylene cannot wick liquid moisture. However, moisture vapour can still be forced through polypropylene fabric by body heat. Polypropylene has the advantage of providing insulation when wet But it can melt at medium heat in home dryers.Also, polypropylene is more oleophilic (oil absorbing) than polyester Consequently, it has a greater tendency to attract and hold oily bod) odours even more. Polypropylene is claimed to be a proved performer in moisture management due to its hydrophobic nature and has very good thermal characteristics, keeping the wearer warm in coldweather and cold in warm weather.

Nylon

Nylon fibre characteristic include lightweight, high strength and softness with good durability. Nylon also quickly when wet. Nylon is good fabric choice when combined with PU coatings. Nylon has a much higher moisture regain than polyester and therefore has better wicking behaviour. It is most often used in tightly woven outerwear, which can trap heat because of low air permeability. It is also used in more breathable knitted fabrics, where it can perform well. However, it is much more expensive than polyester and is therefore only used in

premium applications such as swimwear and cycling wear. Also, because of its higher moisture regain, it dries more slowly than equivalent fabrics made from polyester.Teijin DuPont Nylon has developed a waterproof fabric, polus-Ex that is permeable to moisture. The material is made by laminating a multiporous film to a nylon fabric and a moisture permeability of 8000 g/m2/24 hours, as well as 20 m head of water.

Silk

Because of its hollow structure, silk breathes well. It is soft strong and has natural wicking properties. However, it dries slowly and requires care in cleaning.Not all grades of wool are appropriate for a base layer. First, since it's next to skin, it shouldn't itch. The "itch" so commonly noticed in wool garment results from the fiber ends tickling. Consequently, short fibers will cause more itch than long fibers because there will be more fiber ends touching your skin. Second, the fiber should be very fine. This allows for a fabric of high fiber density to be made, which increases strength and abrasion resistance in addition to increasing the air movement between and adjacent to pockets of dead air space in the fabric (thus, increasing warmth). Finally, fine fibers absorb less water weight per cross-sectional area, so they are more resilient than coarse fibers. The efficiency of wicking is also greater with a fine-fibered fabric because more fibers (and correspondingly, more cross-sectional surface area) can be packed into a given space than an equal volume of coarse fibers.Wool has good, natural wicking properties and will provide insulation even when wet.However, it is slow to dry. However the use of fine chlorinated merino wool isemployed in Sportwool as a base layer.Wearing a Merino wool undergarment will result in the garment staying dryer for longer during periods of exertion. Wool fibers have micropores in them (acharacteristic not unique to Merino wool) that readily allow for the absorption ofwater vapor-up to 1/3 the fiber weight. Consequently, it takes longer for a woolgarment to reach the high relative humidity required for condensation to occur(synthetic fibers typically absorb less than 5% of their own weight in moisture vaporbefore feeling wet).

A wool fabric (manufactured into long-sleeved T- shirt form) has been shown to

absorb significantly more sweat than a polyester fabric (of comparable structure)during a period of exercise followed by rest. The amount of moisture desorbed from the wool fabric was significantly higher than that from the polyester fabric, and the skin temperature decreased faster and recovered more slowly after contact with the wool fabric compared with polyester fabric.

Cotton

Cotton garments provide a good combination of softness and comfort. However,cotton is not recommended for use in base layer clothing because of its tendency to absorb and retain moisture. When wet, cotton garments cling to the skin. Causing discomfort. Wearing jeans on the ski slopes, for instance, will not only weigh down the skier but will also cause chilling if the jeans become wet.The slow-to-dry and cold-when-wet characteristics of cotton make this materialunsuitable in conditions in which there are high levels of moisture-either perspiration or precipitation-and where the ambient temperature is low.During SASMIRA’s trials for wicking of cotton treated with hydrophobic finishes showed good wicking properties.

Viscose Rayon

The viscose rayon is not preferred next to skin as it holds water (13 % moistureregain) in sportswear. The outer layer of knitted hydrophilic portion of the twin layer sportswear can be of viscose rayon, which absorbs 2-3 times more moisture than cotton. The wicking behaviour improves by incorporation of some hydrophobic finishes.

There are several methods which can be used to obtain fabrics which are both breathable and waterproof. These can be divided into three groups:

Densely woven fabrics

Membranes

Coatings.

2.1.1. Densely Woven Fabrics:

Probably the first effective waterproof breathable fabric was developed in the 1940s for military purposes and is known' as Ventile.Ventile fabric was carefully engineered to make it effective1.The finest types of long staple cottons are selected so that there are very small spaces between the fibres. The cotton is processed into combed yarn, which is then plied. This improves regularity and ensures that the fibres are as parallel as possible to the yarn axis, and that there are no large pores where water can penetrate. The yarn is woven using an Oxford weave, which is a plain weave with two threads acting together in the warp. This gives minimum crimp in the weft, again ensuring that the fibres are as parallel as possible to the surface of the fabric.

When the fabric surface is wetted by water, the cotton fibres swell transversely reducing the size of the pores in the fabric and requiring very high pressure to cause penetration .The fabric is thus rendered waterproof without the need for any water-repellent

finishing treatment.The military variants use thread densities as high as 98 per cm. Fabric for other applications uses much lower thread densities necessitating a water repellent finish to achieve the waterproof properties.Densely woven fabric can also be made from synthetic microfilament yarns. The individual filaments are less than 10 micrometer in diameter, so that fibres with very small pores can be engineered. Microfilaments are usually made from polyamide or polyester. The latter is particularly useful as it has inherent water-repellent properties. The water penetration resistance of the fabric is improved by application of silicone or fluorocarbon finish Although fabrics made from microfilaments have a soft handle many of them are windproof, but not truly waterproof as the synthetic filaments do not swell when wet. The use of very fine fibres and filaments and dense construction results in fabrics with very small pore size compared with conventional fabrics. Typical pore size for a waterproof fabric is about 10 micrometer compared with 60 micrometer for conventional fabric. Ventile fabric has a pore size of about 10 micrometer when dry and 3-4 micrometer when wet2. Fabric made from microfilaments is claimed to have up to 7000 filaments per centimetre. The military variant of Ventile fabric has about 6000 fibres per centimetre.

2.1.2. Membranes

Membranes are extremely thin films made from polymeric material and engineered in such a way that they have a very high resistance to liquid water penetration, yet allow the passage of water vapour. A typical membrane is only about 10 micrometer thick and, therefore, is laminated to a conventional textile fabric to provide the necessary mechanical strength. They are of two types, microporous and hydrophilic

2.1.2.1. Microporous Membrane

The first and probably the best known microporous membrane developed and introduced in 1976 by W.Gore,is known as Gore-Tex.This is a thin film of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) polymer claimed to contain 1.4 billion tiny holes per squaremeter.The holes are much smaller than the smallest raindrop (2-3 micrometer compared with 100 micrometer)3 yet very much larger than a water vapour molecule. Other manufacturers make similar membranes based on microporous polyvinylidene fluorIde (PVDF) cast directly on to the fabric4. The hydrophobic nature of the polymer and small pore size requires very high pressure to cause water penetration. Contamination of the membrane by various materials including body oils, particulate dirt, pesticide residues, insect repellents, sun tan lotion, salt and residual detergent and surfactants used in cleaning' have been suspected of reducing the waterproofing and permeability to water vapour of the membrane.

For this reason microporous membranes usually have a layer of hydrophilic polyurethane to reduce the effects of contamination5.

2.1.2.2. Hydrophilic Membranes

Hydrophilic membranes are very thin films of chemically modified polyester or polyurethane containing no holes which, therefore, are sometimes referred to as non-poromeric. Water vapour from perspiration is able to diffuse through the membrane in relatively large quantities. The polyester or polyurethane polymer is modified by incorporating up to 40% by weight of poly(ethylene oxide)2.The poly(ethylene oxide) constitutes the hydrophilic part of the membrane by forming part of the amorphous regions of the polyurethane polymer system. It has a low energy affinity for water molecules which is essential for rapid diffusion of water vapour6. These amorphous regions are described as acting like intermolecular 'pores' allowing water vapour molecules to pass through but preventing the penetration of liquid water owing to the solid nature of the membrane

Methods of Incorporation

Membranes have to be incorporated into textile products in such a way as to maximize the high tech function without adversely affecting the classical textile properties of handle , drape and visual impression3.There are four main methods of incorporating membranes into textile products.The method employed depends upon cost,required function and processing conditions3:

a) Laminate of membrane and outer fabric :

The membrane is laminated to the underside of the outer fabric to produce a to layer system.This method has the disadvantage of producing a rustling, paper like handle with reduced aesthetic appeal but have advantage of very effective protective properties of wind resistance and water proofing.This method is mainly used for protective clothing

b) Liner or insert processing:

The membrane is laminated to a light weight knitted material or web.The pieces are cut to shape from this material, sewn together and the seams rendered waterproof with special sealing tape. This structure is then loosely inserted between tite outer fabric and the liner. The three materials (outer, laminate and lining) are joined together by concealed stitch seams. If high thermal insulation is required, then the lightweight support for the membrane is replaced by a cotton, wool or wadding fabric. This method has the advantage of giving soft handle and good drape. The outer fabric can also be modified to suit fashion demands.

c) Laminate of membrane and lining fabric:

The laminate is attached to the right side of the lining material. The functional layer is incorporated into the garment as a separate layer independent of the outer fabric. This method has the advantage that the fashion aspects can be maximized.

d) Laminate of outer fabric, membrane and lining:

This produces a three-layer system,which gives a less attractive handle and drape than the other methods and, therefore, is not commonly

2.1.3. Coatings

These consist of a layer of polymeric material applied to one surface of the fabric. Polyurethane is used as the' coating material. Like membranes, the coatings are of two types; micro porous and hydrophilic. These coatings are much thicker than membranes. Contains very fine interconnected channels, much smaller than the finest raindrop but much larger than a water-vapour molecule

2.1.3.1. Micro Porous Coatings

Wet Coagulation

Polyurethane polymer is dissolved in the organic solvent dimethyl formamide to produce a solution insoluble in water. This is then coated on to the fabric. The coated fabric is passed through a conditioning chamber containing water vapour. As the organic solvent is miscible with water, it is diluted and solid polyurethane precipitates. The fabric is then washed to remove the solvent, which leaves behind pores in the coating. Finally the coated fabric is mangled and dried. This method is not very popular as it requires high capital cost for machines and solvent recovery is expensive.

Thermocoagulation

Polyurethane is dissolved in an organic solvent and the resulting solution mixed with water to produce an emulsion. The emulsion 'paste' is coated on to one side of the fabric. The coated fabric then goes through a two-stage drying process. The first stage employs a low temperature to remove the organic solvent, precipitating the polyurethane. The coating is now a mixture of solid polyurethane and water. The second stage employs a higher temperature to evaporate the water leaving behind pores in the coating.

Foam Coating

A mixture of polyurethane and polyurethane/polyacrylic acid esters are dispersed in water and then foamed. The foam is stabilised with the aid of additives. The foam is then coated on to one side of the fabric. The coated fabric is dried to form a micro porous coating. It is important that the foam is open cell to allow penetration of water vapour but with small enough cells to prevent liquid water penetration. The fabric is finally calendered under low pressure to compress the coating. As the foam cells are relatively large, a fluorocarbon polymer water-repellent finish is applied to improve the water-resistant properties. This type of coating production is environmentally friendly as no organic solvents are used.

Hydrophilic Coatings

Hydrophilic coatings5 use the same basic water vapour permeability mechanism as the hydrophilic membranes. The difference between microporous materials and hydrophilic materials is that with the

former, water vapour passes through the permanent air-permeable structure whereas the latter transmit vapour by a molecular mechanism involving adsorption-diffusion and desorption. These coatings are all based on polyurethane, which has been chemically modified by incorporating polyvinyl alcohols and polyethylene oxides. These have a chemical affinity for water vapour allowing the diffusion of water vapour through the amorphous regions of the polymer.The balance between hydrophilic and hydrophobic" components of the polymer system has to be optimised to give acceptable vapour permeability, flexibility, durability and insolubility in water and dry cleaning solvents.

Swelling of the membrane is encouraged to assist water vapour diffusion yet it also has to be restricted to prevent dissolution or breakdown in water or in the other solvents with which the polymer is likely to come into contact. Poly (ether-urethane) coatings and membranes have excellent integrity. This can be conferred in two ways:

1 by a high degree of hydrogen bonding, principally between polar groups in the hydrophobic segments of adjacent polymer chains

.

2 by forming covalent crosslinks between adjacent polymer chains. The effective length and density of the crosslinks are variables affecting polymer swelling and thus vapour permeability.

Methods of Applying Coatings

The conventional method of applying coatings to fabric is to use direct application using the knife over roller technique3. The fabric is passed over a roller and liquid coating is poured over it. Excess liquid is held back by a 'doctor blade' set close to the surface of the fabric. The thickness of the coating is determined by the size of the gap between the blade and the surface of the fabric. The coated fabric is passed through a dryer to solidify the coating. Sometimes the coating is built up in several layers by a number of applications. In order to achieve thinner coatings and, therefore, more flexible fabric and to apply coating to warp knitted, nonwoven, open weave and elastic fabric, transfer coating is used. The liquid coating is first applied to a silicone release paper using the knife over roller technique. This is then passed through an oven to solidify the coating. A second coating is then applied and the textile fabric immediately applied to this. The second coating, therefore, acts as an adhesive. This assembly is passed through an oven to solidify the adhesive layer. The coated fabric is stripped from the release paper, which can be reused.

3.0 Various Commercial Water Breathable Fabric

Breathable Membranes

All breathable microporous membranes comprise an extremely thin man-made film whose physical structure contains microscopic pores that are large enough for water vapour (perspiration) to pass through but small enough not to let water droplets through. Thus the membrane is breathable, waterproof and windproof. Modern microporous membranes are usually laminated to a face fabric, and available in two and three layer versions.

Gore-Tex

Gore-Tex is a unique wafer thin microporous membrane, which contains over 9 million pores per square inch. Each pore is 20,000 times smaller than a water droplet, yet some 700 times bigger than a moisture vapour molecule. This gives the fabric the excellent levels of waterproofness and breathability that the brand is famous for.

Gore-Tex is a bi-component membrane, meaning that it is made up of two parts. The main part is made from expanded polytetrafluoroethylene. This is then combined with an oleophobic (oil hating) layer that protects the membrane from the natural oils that the human body emits, insect repellents, cosmetics etc. The outer face of the Gore-Tex fabric is coated with a hydrophobic DWR (Durable Water Repellency) treatment which encourages

surface water to bead up and run off, improving the wet weather performance of the garment and promoting breathability by preventing wetting-out of the outer face. There are a number of different Gore-Tex constructions currently used within the industry:

Classic 2-Layer

Provides soft, versatile weather protection and is good for end uses such as walking, streetwear, golf and skiing. Made by laminating a nylon or polyester face fabric to the Gore-Tex membrane and then hanging a mesh lining just inside the laminate.

Classic 3-Layer

Designed for ultimate durability in rugged use applications in tough weather conditions such as high altitude mountaineering. Made by again laminating a face fabric (usually nylon) to the Gore-Tex membrane, an inner protective mesh scrim is then laminated to the other side of the membrane, giving better durability.

Paclite

Lightweight and more packable than either two or three layer garments, designed for ultra light mountaineering or other fast moving sports. As with two layer garments, the face fabric is bonded

to the Gore-Tex membrane, but unlike either of the other constructions, abrasion resistant raised nubs (or dots) protect the membrane. This means that as there is less between you and the membrane, breathability is increased.

XCR

Standing for eXtended Comfort Range, XCR is the new product from Gore-Tex, which by using new membrane technology and new lamination techniques offers 25% more breathability than classic Gore-Tex garments. Designed for mountaineers, backpackers, snowboarders, backcountry skiers and other outdoor enthusiasts who value performance and demand the most from their gear. Available in both two and three layer construction.

Hydro Dry P3 (Sprayway)

The top fabric in the Hydrodry range from Sprayway, P3 has a hydrostatic head of 10,000mm. It is waterproof and has a good level of breathability. Again developed from a hydrophilic laminate, Hydrodry P3 is available in both 2-layer and 3-layer constructions. Hydrodry P3 provides Sprayway customers with a technical alternative to Gore-Tex in the same way that Drilite Extreme does for Mountain Equipment.

Drilite Extreme or DLE (Mountain Equipment)

A new development from Mountain Equipment, Drilite Extreme is a monolithic, hydrophilic laminate, with a hydrostatic head of more than 20,000mm. DLE (Drilite Extreme) is totally waterproof & exceptionally breathable, guaranteed. An added benefit of hydrophilic laminates is Drilite Extremes elasticity, making it especially ideal for stretch panels in the knees and seat areas, guaranteeing the highest freedom of movement and comfort. Available in 2 and 3 layer contructions.

HyVent (The North Face)

Designed as an innovative option for complete weather protection, HyVent is a waterproof/breathable polyurethane-based membrane. While it is slightly less breathable than Gore-Tex laminates it is extremely waterproof, and can be counted on as a dependable protective outer layer. This combination of high waterproofness and breathability makes it ideal for keeping the elements out.

To increase the comfort and breathability level of the coating, TNF have developed precise custom lining options in both their 2- and 3-layer versions of the HyVent technology.

eVENT (Pearl Izumi/Rab/Montane)

eVENT Fabric is a Direct Venting waterproof barrier. Using a proprietary and patent-pending Dry System technology, eVENT Fabric has set a new standard for comfort by allowing perspiration to dissipate and vent before it saturates the inside of the fabric. At the core of eVENT fabric is hydrophobic ePTFE (expanded Polytetrafluoroethylene) film that has been rendered oleophobic, and thereby free from body oil contamination, via a method that retains the inherent open-pore structure of the membrane.

Breathable Coatings

All coatings are created by spreading a thin layer of resin directly onto to the inside face of the chosen fabric. Two distinct types of breathable coating exist: microporous and hydrophilic.A microporous coating works on the same principle as a microporous membrane, the pores in the coating being large enough to let water vapour pass through but small enough to keep water droplets out. Hydrophilic coatings rely on the chemical and molecular properties of water molecules. The heat that the body generates inside the garment drives water vapour (perspiration) down the polymer chains found in the coating to the external face, the water vapour moving from molecule to molecule rather than freely through a physical hole or pore. As the body produces more moisture and the fabric gets wetter, the chains naturally increase in size, allowing even more moisture movement.In use, both types of coatings are

effective, with the overall performance of any garment being determined by a combination of factors such as the choice of face fabric, use of a separate lining, and the general design, cut and finish of the garment.

Triple Point Ceramic (Lowe Alpine)

Triplepoint Ceramic is a unique multi-layer microporous coating which is waterproof, windproof and breathable. It differs from other treatments in that the manufacturing process involves multiple coatings and the introduction of ceramic particles, which are impregnated into the coating under high pressure.

This has the effect of creating microscopic holes around each particle. These cavities are large enough to permit the passage of water vapour to the outside face but small enough to prevent liquid water from moving the other way. Since the Triplepoint Ceramic coating is physically anchored to the fabric it wont de-laminate or become damaged. This construction is what makes the fabric inherently windproof as well as highly breathable and waterproof. A special Dry Yarn technology DWR treatment is also applied to the coated fabrics outer face to significantly improve wet weather performance and beading, (this can be re-generated simply by exposing the garment to a direct heat source i.e. medium heat iron or tumble drier). There are currently two constructions of Triplepoint Ceramic used in garment production.

Standard

The fabric is constructed and coated as described above and a free hanging Dryflo mesh lining is then added to protect the coating, and to help disperse any condensed water droplets on the inner face of the garment.

Direct Lined

Triplepoint Ceramic Direct Lined is a new fabric combination for the Alpine Pro range . Unlike the standard construction, a fixed lining is applied directly to the Triplepoint Ceramic coating. This gives better performance when combined with a high spec. face fabric.

Triple Point (Lowe Alpine)

A multi-layer non-ceramic coating which is lighter than Triple Point Ceramic and therefore better suited to general walking/outdoor activities rather than more demanding outdoor sports. The outer face of the fabric has a standard DWR treatment applied to it to enhance wet weather performance.

Hydrodry P2 (Sprayway)

A more basic version of Sprayways Hydrodry P3, Hydrodry P2 is a mixture of hydrophilic coatings and laminates rather than a laminate outright. With a lower hydrostatic head (5,000mm) than P3 and a slightly lower degree of breathability, Hydrodry P2 is pitched at the more general walking market. Available only in the equivalent of a two-layer construction, Hydrodry P2 is a good competitor to standard Triplepoint and Aquadry.

Entrant II

A microporous coating with a multi-layer structure. Applied to a suitable face fabric it has good waterproof and breathability characteristics. Entrant II is used on some F&T nylon face fabrics to enhance performance and durability.

Aquadry

Aquadry is Craghoppers own hydrophilic coating. Constructed and working in a very similar way to Sprayways Hydrodry P2, Aquadry is a good choice fabric for a middle of the range waterproof garment- it is waterproof (at least 7,000mm), windproof and breathable. The Aquadry label carries a hydrostatic head measurement (in meters) and a breathability rating (%age) on each garment.

HPX Technology

The fabric allows moisture vapour from inside the suit to breathe out, whilst stopping any sea or rainwater getting in. This is achieved by having microscopic holes in the membrane, large enough to let water vapour out, but much too small to let water droplets in. Incorporated into the HPX Jacket and Smock is Stretch HPX fabric which is exclusive to Musto. Stretch HPX uses a stretch GORE-TEX Ocean Technology membrane in a three layer laminated fabric. This revolutionary fabric has an elasticity of 30%. The result is the least restrictive, most breathable fabric for foul weather gear available.

GORE Windstopper Fabric

This is a windproof and breathable microporous ePTFE membrane which is laminate to a second fabric such as a fleece to form a very breathable & durably windproof barrier. Windstopper garments provide up to 2 times more thermal insulation than conventional non-laminated garments.

MPX GORE-TEX Technology

The fabric allows moisture vapour from inside the suit to breathe out, whilst stopping any sea or rainwater getting in. This is achieved by having microscopic holes in the membrane, large enough to let water vapour out, but much too small to let water droplets in. Laminated to the GORE-TEX membrane are inner and outer fabrics. The outer fabric is a hardwearing woven nylon to give the

overall fabric the strength that is required. MPX GORE-TEX products are ideal for offshore and coastal racing and cruising. MPX GORE-TEX Race is ideal for high activity, high performance sailing such as racing round the cans.

GORE-TEX Fabric Technology

The original breathable GORE-TEX fabric uses the standard GORE-TEX membrane. Weve bonded an outer layer of durable, woven nylon to it and created a material thats an excellent choice for the shell of Middle Layer garments.

Waterproof & Showerproof Breathable Fabrics

This chemical process is helped by a pressure difference, which drives the water vapour from the high pressure inside the clothing system, to the low pressure outside. While not as efficient or as durable as GORE-TEX fabric, hydrophilic fabrics do offer a lower price point. Breathable waterproof fabrics have taped seams, thus making them fully waterproof for coastal, inshore and dinghy sailing, as well as onshore use.

POLARTEC Fabrics

Polartec Classic 100

Polartec Classic 100 stretch fabric is an expedition weight fabric for use in HP (High Performance) thermal underwear.

Polartec Classic 200

Polartec Classic 200 is a mid-weight fabric used in the Polartec Middle Layer, the Snug Shirt and the lining for the Snug Jackets and GORE-TEX fabric Middle Layer.

Polartec Thermal Pro

Polartec Thermal Pro features in our Snug Mock Wool garments giving the ultimate warmth for weight, with increased wind resistance and a DWR finish (Durable Water Repellency), which causes water to bead and run off the surface.

3Layer System, Yachting

To keep warm in the worst conditions first of all you must stay dry. To do this your clothing must transport body moisture away from the skin, hold dry warm air close to the body & keep rain and snow out. Thats what Mustos 3 Layer System does, in three lightweight, non-restrictive layers.

Layer 1 - The Base Layer

This layer is worn next to your skin and must transfer (wick) sweat away from your body as fast as possible. Polyester fabrics are best for this. Beware of cotton clothing which can absorb 30+% more than its weight in water and transfers heat away from your body thirty times quicker than dry air. Mustos Thermals absorb less than 0.5% of their weight in water.

Layer 2 - The Middle Layer

The main job for the mid-layer is to hold warm dry, insulating air inside the clothing system and close to the body. It must also continue the transmission of water vapour through the clothing system as started by the base layer. Mustos Middle Layer WINDSTOPPER and Middle Layer GORE-TEX garments are great for this job.

Layer 3 - The Outer Layer

The third layer is completely waterproof to the outside elements. It must also stop the wind whipping away the precious warm, dry air that is held inside. But the third layer must also deal with the moisture that is transmitted outwards by the inner two layers. This is where breathable waterproof fabrics come in. They continue the

transmission of the water vapour through the outer layer all the way to the outside environment.

CONCLUSION

Water proof breathable fabric are designed to provide protection from the wind, rain and loss of body heat. The breathable fabric passively allows the water vapour and prevents the penetration of liquid water for comfort clothing. The breathable are very much better than fabric coated with conventional water proof materials, which have a higher resistance to vapour transport than ordinary woven and knitted apparel fabric. The water proof breathable fabric continues to breathe under rainy condition. However the breathability of most of them ultimately ceases after long exposure to prolonged severe rainy condition. The water proof breathable fabric is highly breathable, too , keeping you dry and comfortable whatever your activity.