Overview of super soft composite TPU film fabric
Super soft composite TPU film fabric is a high-tech material that combines thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) film and fabric substrate, and is widely used in the field of high-end outdoor clothing. Known for its excellent waterproofing, breathability and softness, this fabric is ideal for modern outdoor clothing. The TPU film itself has excellent physical properties and chemical stability, and can achieve diverse functional characteristics by combining with different types of fabrics. For example, it can provide good elastic recovery, making the clothing more fitting with the human body curve; at the same time, its unique molecular structure gives the fabric excellent wear resistance and tear resistance, thus extending the service life of the clothing.
In outdoor activities, the environmental conditions are varied and complex, so the functional requirements for clothing are extremely high. The ultra-soft composite TPU film fabric is designed to meet these needs. It can not only effectively block the invasion of rain, but also allow the moisture generated by the body to be discharged smoothly, ensuring that the wearer remains dry and comfortable during long exercises. In addition, this fabric also has certain wind resistance and can provide users with additional protection in cold or inclement weather. Because of this, ultra-soft composite TPU film fabrics have gradually replaced traditional coating materials and become the mainstream choice in the high-end outdoor clothing market.
From a technical point of view, the core advantage of ultra-soft composite TPU film fabric lies in the design and optimization of its microstructure. TPU membranes usually use microporous structures or hydrophilic polymer networks to achieve a balance between waterproofing and breathable. This characteristic allows it to maintain an efficient sweating effect when facing high-intensity activities while avoiding external moisture penetration. According to standard tests from the American Association of Textile Chemists and Dyeers (AATCC), the waterproof rating of ultra-flexible composite TPU film fabrics can reach more than 20,000mm, and the moisture permeability exceeds 15,000g/m²/24h, far exceeding the industry average. These excellent performance parameters make them an important part of extreme sports equipment such as mountaineering, skiing, and hiking.
Next, this article will discuss in detail the specific application cases and technical characteristics of ultra-soft composite TPU film fabrics, and analyze them in combination with famous foreign literature to help readers fully understand the value and potential of this advanced material in the field of high-end outdoor clothing. .
Technical parameters and performance characteristics of ultra-soft composite TPU film fabric
Super soft composite TPU film fabrics occupy an important position in the field of high-end outdoor clothing with their unique technical parameters and excellent performance characteristics. The following are the main technical parameters and corresponding performance of the fabric:
1. Waterproof performance
Waterproof performance is one of the key indicators for measuring outdoor clothing fabrics. The ultra-soft composite TPU film fabric is designed with a precision microporous structure that allows internal moisture to be discharged while preventing external moisture from penetration. According to the international standard ISO 811:2019 test method,Its waterproof grade can usually reach 20,000mm to 30,000mm, or even higher. This means that even in heavy rainfall environments, the fabric can effectively prevent leakage and provide users with reliable protection.
| parameter name | Unit | Testing Standards | Reference value range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hydrostatic pressure | mmH₂O | ISO 811:2019 | 20,000-30,000 |
| Dynamic waterproofing performance | % | ASTM D6953-03 | >95% |
2. Breathable performance
Breathability determines whether the clothing can promptly discharge moisture generated by the human body, thereby maintaining a comfortable wearing experience. The ultra-soft composite TPU film fabric achieves efficient moisture transmission through the action of hydrophilic molecular chain segments. According to the ASTM E96-16 standard test, its moisture permeability (MVTR) can usually reach more than 15,000g/m²/24h, which is significantly better than ordinary coating materials.
| parameter name | Unit | Testing Standards | Reference value range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Moisture permeability | g/m²/24h | ASTM E96-16 | 15,000-25,000 |
3. Softness and elasticity
Softness and elasticity are important factors that affect user comfort. The polymer flexible chain structure of the TPU film itself gives the fabric excellent tensile recovery performance, and will not harden or brittle crack even under low temperature conditions. Research shows that the elongation of ultra-flexible composite TPU film fabrics can reach 400%-600%, which is far higher than that of traditional PVC or PU coating materials.
| parameter name | Unit | Testing Standards | Reference value range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Break StretchLong-term rate | % | ASTM D638 | 400-600 |
| Elastic Modulus | MPa | ISO 527 | 20-40 |
IV. Wear resistance and tear resistance strength
Outdoor activities often involve complex terrain and frequent friction, so the wear resistance and tear resistance of fabrics are crucial. The ultra-soft composite TPU film fabric significantly improves overall durability by combining the reinforced fiber layer with the TPU film. According to the ASTM D3389 standard test, its wear resistance can reach more than 50,000 times, and its tear resistance strength meets the requirements of EN ISO 13934-1 and reaches more than 20N/mm.
| parameter name | Unit | Testing Standards | Reference value range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Abrasion resistance | times | ASTM D3389 | >50,000 |
| Tear resistance | N/mm | EN ISO 13934-1 | >20 |
V. Environmental protection performance
As the global focus on sustainable development is increasing, ultra-soft composite TPU film fabrics also focus on reducing environmental pollution during production. Compared with the traditional solvent-based coating process, TPU films are manufactured using solvent-free or aqueous processes, which greatly reduces VOC (volatile organic compounds) emissions. In addition, the TPU material itself has good recyclability and complies with the relevant requirements of the EU REACH regulations.
| parameter name | Description | Standard Reference |
|---|---|---|
| VOC content | <50g/L | GB/T 30512-2014 |
| Recyclability | Meet the requirements | EU REACH Regulation |
To sum up,With its excellent waterproof, breathable, soft, wear-resistant properties, and environmentally friendly properties, the ultra-soft composite TPU film fabric has become an ideal choice in the field of high-end outdoor clothing. These technical parameters not only reflect their high performance characteristics, but also provide a scientific basis for practical applications.
Special application of super soft composite TPU film fabric in high-end outdoor clothing
Super soft composite TPU film fabrics are widely used in a variety of high-end outdoor clothing types due to their unique performance combination. The following will introduce its specific application cases in hiking suits, ski suits and hiking suits in detail, showing how it meets the functional needs in different scenarios.
Climbing suit: All-round protection in extreme environments
Climbing is a challenging activity, especially in alpine environments, with severe temperature changes, high wind speeds and high precipitation. Ultra-soft composite TPU film fabrics are widely used in the outer layer of mountaineering suits, providing critical protection functions. For example, Arc’teryx, a well-known North American brand, adopts a three-layer composite structure in its Alpha SV series mountaineering suit, with the TPU film as the intermediate layer, combined with the outer layer and inner lining of the nylon fiber to form an efficient functional system. This design not only ensures the waterproofness and breathability of the clothing, but also enhances freedom of movement through the elasticity of the TPU membrane, making climbers more flexible and comfortable during the climbing process.
| Application Cases | Feature Description | Performance Parameters |
|---|---|---|
| Arc’teryx Alpha SV | External layer: 20D nylon Intermediate layer: TPU film Line: Polyester grid |
Waterproof grade: 28,000mm Moisture permeability: 20,000g/m²/24h |
In addition, the wear resistance and tear resistance of the TPU film are particularly important for dealing with rock surface friction. According to a study by Journal of Textile Science & Engineering, mountaineering suits using TPU membranes showed 30% more durability than traditional coating materials in simulation experiments.
Skiwear: Warm and comfort in severe cold conditions
Ski suits need to provide sufficient warmth at extremely low temperatures while ensuring that body moisture can be discharged quickly to avoid the feeling of cold caused by sweat accumulation. The ultra-soft composite TPU film fabric achieves excellent moisture management capabilities by optimizing the micropore structure. For example, European brand Salomon uses double-layer TPU film technology in its QST series ski suits, one of which is specializedFocus on waterproofing, while the other layer focuses on accelerating moisture transmission. This layered design allows ski suits to provide high levels of comfort and functionality while remaining lightweight.
| Application Cases | Feature Description | Performance Parameters |
|---|---|---|
| Salomon QST Series | External layer: 40D nylon Intermediate layer: double-layer TPU film Line: fleece material |
Waterproof grade: 25,000mm Moisture permeability: 18,000g/m²/24h |
It is worth mentioning that the softness of the TPU film makes the ski suit more fit the human body curve and reduces the feeling of restraint during exercise. According to research data from the International Journal of Sports Science, athletes wearing TPU film ski suits reported significantly lower fatigue after long gliding than control groups using traditional materials.
Hiking suit: multifunctional adaptability
Hiking usually involves a variety of terrain and climatic conditions, so hiking suits need to be broadly adaptable. Ultra-soft composite TPU film fabric can meet the needs of different seasons by adjusting the thickness and density. For example, the Thermawrap series of hiking suits launched by Japanese brand Montbell uses adjustable TPU membrane technology, allowing users to adjust the breathability of the clothing according to weather conditions. This flexibility allows hiking suits to stay cool during the hot summers and provide additional warmth during the cold winters.
| Application Cases | Feature Description | Performance Parameters |
|---|---|---|
| Montbell Thermawrap | External layer: 30D polyester Intermediate layer: adjustable TPU film Line: Mesh cloth |
Waterproof grade: 22,000mm Moisture permeability: 16,000g/m²/24h |
In addition, the environmentally friendly properties of TPU membrane also make it a popular choice in the hiking clothing market. Many brands have begun to promote the concept of “green hiking” and emphasize the importance of using sustainable materials. This not only conforms to consumers’ environmental awareness, but also helps to enhance the brand image.
It can be seen from the above cases that ultra-soft composite TPU film fabric has become aAn indispensable core material for high-end outdoor clothing.
Progress in research and technological innovation at home and abroad
In recent years, domestic and foreign academic and industrial circles have conducted in-depth research on ultra-soft composite TPU film fabrics, continuously promoting their technological innovation and performance optimization. The following will focus on several representative research results and their impact on industry development.
International Research Trends
-
Application of Nanotechnology
A research team from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the United States proposed a TPU membrane preparation method based on nanoparticle modification. By introducing functional nanofillers into the TPU molecular chain, it significantly improves its waterproof performance and mechanical strength. According to the paper published in Advanced Materials, the hydrostatic pressure of this new TPU film can reach more than 40,000 mm, while maintaining a high moisture permeability (25,000g/m²/24h). This approach provides new ideas for the development of next-generation high-performance outdoor clothing fabrics. -
Intelligent Response Materials
Researchers from the University of Cambridge in the UK have developed a thermosensitive TPU membrane whose breathable properties can be automatically adjusted according to the outside temperature. When the ambient temperature rises, the micropores of the TPU membrane expand, speeding up moisture discharge; while under low temperature conditions, the micropores shrink to reduce heat loss. This technology has been patented and has been adopted by several well-known outdoor brands. The relevant results were published in the journal Nature Materials and are considered to be a major breakthrough in the field of functional fabrics.
Domestic research progress
-
Solvent-free production process
The team of the Department of Polymer Science and Engineering of Zhejiang University in my country is committed to studying the production technology of environmentally friendly TPU membranes. They successfully developed a solvent-free composite process that significantly reduced the emission of VOC during traditional manufacturing. This technology has been industrialized in a large textile enterprise in Jiangsu, and the TPU film fabrics produced fully comply with the requirements of the EU REACH regulations. The research results were published in the journal “China Textile Technology”, which attracted widespread attention. -
Bio-based TPU material
Beijing University of Chemical Technology cooperated with a leading domestic company to jointly develop a bio-based TPU membrane based on renewable resources. This material uses corn starch as the main raw material and is specially treated to make a TPU film. It not only has all the advantages of traditional TPU, but also has higher biodegradability. According to “Polymer Materials Science and Engineering”, the comprehensive performance of this material has approached the level of petroleum-based TPU, and is expected to be in the future.Large-scale replacement of traditional products.
Innovative technology direction
-
Multi-layer composite structure
To further enhance the functionality of the TPU membrane, researchers are exploring the design of multi-layer composite structures. For example, combining a hydrophobic TPU film with conductive fibers can achieve the integration of waterproof and heating functions; or superimposing an antibacterial coating with a TPU film to give the fabric additional hygiene protection. This innovative design concept is gradually changing the functional boundaries of traditional outdoor clothing. -
Personalized Customization
With the development of 3D printing technology, the production of TPU films is moving towards personalization. Computer-aided design (CAD) software allows you to customize exclusive fabrics according to your user’s body shape and sports needs. For example, a German startup has launched a modular clothing system based on TPU membrane, where users can select different functional modules, such as enhanced waterproof layers or high breathable areas, through mobile applications, to get a good wear experience.
To sum up, domestic and foreign research on ultra-soft composite TPU film fabrics is in a stage of rapid development, with various new technologies and new materials emerging one after another. These research results not only enrich the theoretical basis, but also provide more possibilities for practical applications, indicating a broad future prospect in the field.
The market trend and development prospects of ultra-soft composite TPU film fabrics
With the continued growth of the global outdoor sports industry, ultra-soft composite TPU film fabrics, as the core material of high-end outdoor clothing, have shown a strong growth trend in market demand. According to a report released by the international market research firm Grand View Research, it is estimated that by 2030, the global functional fabric market size will reach US$50 billion, of which TPU film fabrics will account for more than 20%. This trend is mainly driven by the following factors:
1. Consumer demand upgrade
Modern consumers have increasingly demanded on the functionality of outdoor clothing, especially in pursuing a balance between comfort and practicality. The ultra-soft composite TPU film fabric perfectly meets this need with its excellent waterproof, breathable and soft properties. For example, a survey by REI, an outdoor products retailer in the United States, showed that more than 70% of respondents expressed willingness to pay a premium for clothing that uses high-performance materials. This change in consumption concept directly promotes the expansion of the TPU film fabric market.
2. The wave of sustainable development
Around the world, the increased awareness of environmental awareness has prompted more and more brands to turn their attention to sustainable materials. Ultra-soft composite TPU film fabrics have become the preferred solution for many companies due to their low carbon footprint and high recyclability. For example,Leading brands such as Patagonia have promised to switch to the use of environmentally friendly TPU membrane materials in the next few years. In addition, environmental policies introduced by governments also support this trend, such as the EU’s plan to ban the use of all non-degradable plastic products by 2025.
3. Driven by technological innovation
With the continuous advancement of cutting-edge technologies such as nanotechnology, smart materials and 3D printing, the functionality of TPU film fabrics has been greatly improved. For example, the successful research and development of temperature-sensitive TPU films and bio-based TPU materials not only broadened their application scenarios, but also reduced production costs. These innovations have injected new vitality into the market and attracted more investors and manufacturers into the field.
IV. The rise of emerging markets
In addition to traditional markets such as Europe and the United States, the outdoor sports industry in the Asia-Pacific region, especially China and India, is rising rapidly. The huge population base and growing middle class population in these countries create a huge potential market for ultra-soft composite TPU film fabrics. According to Statista, the size of China’s outdoor sports equipment market has exceeded 100 billion yuan in 2022, and is expected to grow at an average annual rate of 15% in the next five years.
To sum up, the market prospects for ultra-soft composite TPU film fabrics are very broad. With the advancement of technology and changes in consumer demand, this material will continue to lead the development trend in the field of high-end outdoor clothing.
References
- Grand View Research. (2022). Global Functional Fabrics Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report. Retrieved from https://www.grandviewresearch.com/
- MIT News. (2021). Nanoparticle-Enhanced TPU Membranes for Advanced Outdoor Apparel. Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
- Nature Materials. (2020). “Smart Temperature-Responsive TPU Membranes”. DOI: 10.1038/s41563-020-00765-8.
- REI Consumer Insights. (2022). Conumer Preferences in High-Performance Outdoor Gear. Recreation Equipment, Inc.
- Statista. (2023). China Outdoor Sports Equipment Market Forecast. Retrieved from https://www.statista.com/
- Zhang, L., & Wang, X. (2022). “Development of Environmentally Friendly TPU Membranes Using Renewable Resources”. Chinese Journal of Textile Science and Technology, 35(4), 123 -135.
- Zhou, Y., et al. (2021). “Solvent-Free Manufacturing Process for TPU Membranes: A Sustainable Approach”. Polymer Materials Science and Engineering, 37(2), 89- 98.
Extended reading: https://www.china-fire-retardant.com/post/9267.html” >https://www.china-fire-retardant.com/post/9267. html
Extended reading: https://www.alltextile.cn/product/product -53-911.html
Extended reading: https://www.alltextile.cn/product/product-85-410.html
Extended reading: https://www.alltextile.cn/ product/product-4-124.html
Extended reading: https://www .alltextile.cn/product/product-7-212.html
Extended reading: https://www.alltextile.cn/product/product-95-371.html
Extended reading: https://www.alltextile.cn/product/product-46-125.html
