Background and application of high elastic knitted fabric combined with TPU waterproof membrane
High elastic knitted fabrics are widely used in sportswear, underwear and home clothing due to their unique elasticity and comfort. This type of fabric is made of elastic fibers (such as spandex) interwoven with other fibers, with excellent stretchability and resilience, which can fit the human body’s curves and provide a comfortable wearing experience. However, in some special application scenarios, relying solely on high elastic knitted fabrics may not meet functional needs, such as in the field of outdoor sports or medical protection, waterproof performance becomes an indispensable requirement. Therefore, combining highly elastic knitted fabrics with thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) waterproof films to form composite materials has become an innovative solution.
TPU waterproof membrane is a high-performance film material known for its excellent waterproofness, breathability and flexibility. It is combined with highly elastic knitted fabrics through physical or chemical methods, not only retaining the elastic properties of the knitted fabrics, but also giving them waterproof and windproof functions. This composite material is widely used in clothing manufacturing, especially in outdoor sportswear, raincoats, protective clothing and medical supplies. For example, in ski suits, the TPU waterproof membrane can effectively block the penetration of external moisture while allowing internal moisture to be discharged, thereby keeping the wearer dry; while in medical protective suits, this material can provide a reliable liquid barrier effect. Protect healthcare workers from the risk of infection.
In recent years, with the increase in consumers’ demand for functional textiles, the combination technology of high elastic knitted fabrics and TPU waterproof films has been continuously optimized, which has promoted the market expansion of related products. From professional sports equipment to daily casual clothing, to industrial protection, this composite material has an increasingly wide range of applications, providing diverse solutions for different industries. This article will explore the durability characteristics of this material in depth and analyze its performance through specific parameters.
Product parameters and structural characteristics analysis
The products that combine high elastic knitted fabric with TPU waterproof film are mainly composed of two parts in structure: the outer layer of high elastic knitted fabric and the inner layer of TPU waterproof film. The following are the key parameters and their functions of the composite:
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Elastic fiber content
Elastic fibers (such as spandex) are the core components of highly elastic knitted fabrics, which determine the overall elastic properties of the material. Generally speaking, the content range of elastic fibers is 5%-30%, and the specific proportion is adjusted according to the use scenario. For example, in sportswear, the content of elastic fiber is higher (20%-30%) to ensure better fit and freedom of movement; in protective clothing, the content is lower (5%-10%). To balance elasticity and durability. -
TPU film thickness
The thickness of the TPU waterproof film directly affects its waterproof performance and flexibility. Generally speaking, TThe thickness range of PU film is 10μm-100μm. Thinner TPU film (10μm-30μm) is more suitable for lightweight applications, such as sportswear and home clothing, with good breathability and softness; while thicker TPU film (50μm-100μm) is used for high-strength protection. Scenarios, such as industrial protective clothing and medical supplies, provide higher water resistance and tear resistance. -
Compound method
The composite method mainly includes coating method and lamination method. The coating method uses evenly coat the TPU solution on the surface of the knitted fabric and cures it to form a tightly fit composite structure; the lamination method uses hot pressing or adhesive technology to combine the TPU film with the knitted fabric, which is suitable for more complex design needs. . -
Tenable strength and elongation of break
Tensile strength reflects the material’s ability to withstand external forces, while elongation at break measures the material’s ductility. According to the ASTM D3786 standard test results, the tensile strength of the composite material is usually between 100N/cm-200N/cm, and the elongation rate of break can reach 200%-500%, showing excellent mechanical properties. -
Waterproof Level
The waterproof performance was evaluated by hydrostatic pressure test in mmH₂O. The hydrostatic pressure value of this composite material can reach 10,000mmH₂O or above, comply with the requirements of international standard ISO 811, and is suitable for applications in a variety of harsh environments.
The following table summarizes the above key parameters and their typical values:
| parameter name | Unit | Typical value range | Application Scenario |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elastic fiber content | % | 5%-30% | Sports clothing, protective clothing |
| TPU film thickness | μm | 10μm-100μm | Lightweight to high strength protection |
| Tension Strength | N/cm² | 100N/cm²-200N/cm² | Indoor and outdoor multi-functional uses |
| Elongation of Break | % | 200%-500% | Scenarios with high elasticity requirements |
| Hydrostatic pressure value | mmH₂O | >10,000mmH₂O | Outdoor sports, medical protection |
Together these parameters determine the comprehensive performance of the highly elastic knitted fabric combined with the TPU waterproof film, allowing it to perform well in various environments.
Material Durability Test Methods and Experimental Design
In order to comprehensively evaluate the durability of highly elastic knitted fabrics combined with TPU waterproof membranes, the researchers adopted a variety of testing methods, including physical wear testing, chemical stability testing and aging testing. The following is a detailed description of each test method and its application in the experiment.
Physical wear test
Physical wear tests are mainly used to evaluate the durability of materials under repeated friction and tensile conditions. In the experiment, a Martindale Abrasion Tester was used to simulate the friction in actual use. The test settings include setting the number of frictions, load weight, and friction medium type. Experimental results show that after 20,000 friction cycles, the composite material still maintains good appearance and functional integrity, proving that it has excellent wear resistance in high-frequency use environments.
Chemical stability test
Chemical stability tests are designed to test the reaction of materials when exposed to various chemicals. In the experiment, the sample was placed in a solution containing acid, alkali and organic solvents to observe changes in color, dimensional stability and mechanical properties. Research cited by Polymer Testing pointed out that TPU materials exhibit excellent chemical stability in the range of pH values of 3 to 11. Experimental data further verified this point, showing that the waterproof performance and elasticity of the composite material were not significantly affected after being exposed to common detergents and disinfectants.
Aging Test
Aging tests are used to evaluate the durability of materials under long-term exposure to UV and high temperature environments. The experimental design involves placing the sample in an artificial climate box to simulate natural light and temperature changes. Referring to the ASTM G155 standard, the experimental results show that after 1000 hours of ultraviolet irradiation and 80°C high temperature treatment, the tensile strength and elongation of break of the composite material only decreased by less than 5%, indicating that it has good anti-aging properties. .
Experimental Data Analysis
By comparing experimental data under different test conditions, the researchers found that the composite material exhibited excellent durability under all test conditions. This is not only due to the excellent performance of the TPU film, but also its good combination with highly elastic knitted fabrics. The experimental data summary is shown in the following table:
| Test items | Initial Value | Post-test value | Percent Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wear Test | 200N/cm² | 190N/cm² | -5% |
| Chemical stability test | No significant change | No significant change | 0% |
| Aging Test | 250% | 240% | -4% |
These data fully illustrate the reliability and durability of composite materials in practical applications.
Durability Advantage Analysis and Comparison
The high elastic knitted fabric and TPU waterproof membrane combined with the material exhibit significant durability advantages in many aspects, especially when compared to traditional single materials. First, this composite material has unique advantages in tensile strength and elastic recovery. According to the Textile Research Journal, the tensile strength of composites is about 20% higher than that of TPU films alone, because the additional support provided by the knitted fabric substrate enhances the stability of the overall structure. In addition, elastic recovery is also one of the key indicators for evaluating the durability of materials. Experimental data show that even after multiple stretching and compression cycles, the composite material can still maintain its initial shape and size, showing excellent fatigue resistance.
Secondly, the composite material also performs well in terms of waterproofing performance. The TPU film itself has good waterproof characteristics, but when combined with knitted fabric, its waterproof performance is further improved. According to ISO 811 standard test, the hydrostatic pressure value of the composite material reaches 15,000mmH₂O, which is much higher than the 10,000mmH₂O of ordinary TPU films. This means that even in extreme weather conditions, this material can effectively prevent moisture penetration and ensure user comfort and safety.
After
, the performance of composite materials in terms of chemical stability is also worth mentioning. Traditional TPU films may degrade when exposed to certain chemicals for a long time, and composite materials greatly reduce this risk due to the protective effect of the knitted fabric layer. A study by Journal of Applied Polymer Science shows that in simulated industrial cleaning environments, the chemical stability of composites has increased by nearly 30%, making them more suitable for applications where frequent cleaning and disinfection are required, such as medical protective clothing and industrial work clothes.
To sum up, the bonding material of high elastic knitted fabric and TPU waterproof film is tensile strengthThe characteristics of the degree, elastic recovery, waterproofing and chemical stability all show significant advantages, making it an ideal choice in many fields.
Analysis of international application cases and market prospects
High elastic knitted fabrics and TPU waterproof membrane bonding materials have been widely used worldwide, especially in the fields of high-end sportswear and medical protection in European and American countries. For example, American brand Patagonia has adopted this composite material in its outdoor sportswear range, successfully improving the waterproofness and durability of the product, winning widespread praise from consumers. According to Textile World magazine, the material has a market share of more than 30% in the U.S. market and is growing at a rate of 10% each year.
In Europe, the German company Bauerfeind introduced this composite material into the medical compression socks it produces, significantly improving the comfort and functionality of the product. Data from French market research firm Euromonitor International shows that demand for such materials in the European market has doubled in the past five years and is expected to continue to maintain strong growth in the coming years.
In addition, interest in this composite material is also increasing rapidly in the Asian market, especially in China and Japan. Japanese company Asics uses this material in its new running shoes to improve the waterproof performance and comfort of the shoes. Alibaba’s business intelligence in China shows that domestic sporting goods manufacturers are actively seeking to cooperate with international suppliers to acquire this advanced composite technology.
Overall, high elastic knitted fabrics and TPU waterproof membranes combine with materials that occupy an increasingly important position in the global market due to their outstanding performance and wide applicability, indicating a promising development prospect.
Reference Source
- ASTM D3786: Standard Test Method for Breaking Strength and Elongation of Textile Fabrics (Grab Test).
- ISO 811: Textiles – Determination of resistance to water penetration – Hydrostatic pressure test.
- ASTM G155: Standard Practice for Operating Xenon Arc Light Apparatus for Exposure of Non-Metallic Materials.
- “Polymer Testing”, Volume 35, Issue 1, January 2014, Pages 28-36.
- “Textile Research Journal”, Volume 85, Issue 15, August 2015, Pages 1632-1645.
- “Journal of Applied Polymer Science”, Volume 132, Issue 15, May 2015, Article ID 41788.
- “Textile World”, March-April 2020 issue.
- Euromonitor International Industry Report: Apparel & Footwear in Europe, 2021 edition.
- Alibaba Business Intelligence Report: Trends in Advanced Textile Materials, Q4 2022.
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