The latest membrane solutions
In the October Performance Days we took a very close look at the latest membrane solutions as it was part of the Focus Topic „Evolution and Revolution: From Membranes to Carbon Story”. The use of PFAS has been permanently banned since February 2023, that’s why exhibitors offered some innovative developments.
Microporous membranes are the most widely used solution with initial performance figures and if you want to go truly circular, you may go for microporous Polypropylene membranes. Hydrophilic membranes are the traditional alternative with best performance after wetting out, but now available from CCU yarn as Polyurethane film as a next generation more sustainable option. Electrospun membranes have a comeback as now available as PFC-free development. They are the alternative for best permeability, but one has to consider, that waterproofness is not given when pressure comes from outside, e.g. as a backpack on a jacket. Membranes for the next seasons are available out of Polypropylene, Polyester, Nylon and Polyurethane, mostly recycled or biobased. Besides the selection in this material story you may find more exciting waterproof fabrics for your collections strolling through the categories in the latest Forum display in The Loop.
Long Advance Int. Co., Ltd.
LNR-19043-01
FOCUS TOPIC
100% rec. PA
A packable light wight jacket is essential for everyday life, Long Advance developed a 2.5L pro recycled nylon fabric with PIMI polypropylene microporous membranes. Polypropylene to be known as environmental friendly material (both in raw material making and end used apparel disposal) & light weight. In the other hand, it's water resistant, breathable, also performs outstanding compared with conventional microporous type film.
Paltex Company Ltd. LFB102
Paltex Breathable CO2 PURE film 2 Layer
FOCUS TOPIC
100% rec. PA
By embracing carbon capture and utilization (CCU) as its core principle and employing cutting-edge techniques, this innovation converts captured carbon dioxide through chemical reactions into polyurethane film, thus embodying the concept of a circular economy. It goes beyond mere carbon dioxide capture and storage, as it facilitates reuse, contributing to the reduction of production's carbon footprint while also fostering sustainable economic value.
WUJIANG FLYTEC CO., LTD FY22052-5
410T 0.22*0.22 Rip-Stop N66
FOCUS TOPIC
100% PA
The soft texture of nylon 66 fiber, ultra-high strength performance gives the fabric a comfortable touch and reliable durability. The back is laminated with a 3-layer structure of hydrophobic PU nanofiber membrane and 20D single-jersey. The hydrophobic PU nanofiber membrane is made of billions of small holes that block the entry of water but allow water vapor to escape, truly waterproof and air permeable, it is not only lower than the erosion of wind and rain in harsh environments, it also creates a comfortable and dry experience for the wearer.
Sympatex Technologies GmbH L1666
Tokyo
FOCUS TOPIC
100% rec. PES
The Sympatex Toyko C0 is a 2-ply laminate made of 100% recycled PES from pre-consumer and post-consumer textile waste. Thanks to the fine yarns, the fabric has a smooth surface and a naturally soft hand feel. It also has a slight stretch effect, making it an ideal laminate for Outdoor and Sportswear.
WUJIANG FLYTEC CO., LTD FY23497-2
50D Cavalry Twill N8
FOCUS TOPIC
100% rec. PA
The fabric is made of N8 fiber, which is a two-component elastic nylon fiber composed of nylon 6 and nylon 610. It not only has a strength comparable to nylon 66, it also has a very excellent elastic performance. 30% of it is composed of castor oil biobased, effectively reducing the use of fossil fuels. The back of the nylon based TPE high-performance membrane and the entire fabric is made of 100% nylon components to achieve efficient material reuse, reducing the burden on the environment.
About the Author
Alexa Dehmel
active sports design & consulting
Alexa Dehmel is a performance sports clothing and workwear design expert with over 20 years of experience in the apparel industry. She runs her own design agency in Munich, Germany, has been the curator of functional fabrics for Performance Days and Functional Fabric Fair for over 14 years, and is a guest lecturer and journalist. She strongly believes that the future responsible way is the most valuable way to advise companies in the textile industry.
