Development of a multi-layered waterproof breathable fabric for full-weather apparel

Abstract

In this research, a laminate was produced by assembling five textile layers. These layers were a coated double-sided knitted structure, a non-woven fabric, a hydrophilic membrane that was thermally assembled to a surface veil, and an open-work knitted fabric. The laminated textile's breathability, windproofness, and waterproofness were evaluated. The multi-layered fabric was windproof, and its water vapor permeability was 347.297 g·m-2·s-1 (CV= 8.902%). Its resistance to water penetration was equal to 117.68 Schmerber (CV = 7.81%). The assembled fabric's mechanical properties were also evaluated. Young’s modulus values were equal to 2 MPa (CV= 8.613%) and 1.6 MPa (CV= 8.349%) for both fabric directions. Its flexural rigidity was 5056.659 mg·cm and its surface total deformation was lower than 450 μm when measured under 20, 40, 60, and 80 mN loads. Based on the results obtained, it was concluded that the developed multi-layered fabric could be used to produce raincoats and jackets to protect the wearer from light rain and drizzle.

Keywords

• multilayered fabric
• waterproof fabric
• windproof laminate
• breathable textile
• tensile resistance
• flexural rigidity