2.3.3d Laminated fabrics

Question 1

laminated fabrics

Answer 1

Laminated fabrics consist of two or more layers of
fabric.
The thin layers are held together either by
adhesives or by a thin layer of thermoplastic film
that is heat set to fix the layers together.
Laminated fabric is often backed by a thin woven
fabric which adds stability to the fabric.
Laminated fabrics combine the properties of each
fabric, making a much superior fabric.
Laminated fabric can be engineered for
specific purposes, for example for use in high performance products.
Laminates are used in geotextiles, agricultural
textiles, sport and leisure and in medical textiles.

Question 2

Geotextiles

Answer 2

• Geotextiles are woven or bonded, natural
  or synthetic textiles that are permeable and
  originally used with soil to support drainage and
  protection against erosion.
• Uses now include road construction, agriculture
  and civil engineering.
• The roof of the Eden project in Cornwall shown
  below is an example of a geotextile.

Question 3

Bonded fabrics

Answer 3

• Bonded fabrics comprise of a top fabric that is
  laminated to a thin layer of lightweight woven
  fabric.
• Adhesive is used to hold the two layers together.
• Bonding fabrics together adds to the stability of
  the main fabric, without spoiling its appearance.
• Bonded fabrics are more stable and stronger as a
  result of the process.
  š Foam can be bonded to fine knitted or woven
  fabric to improve its functionality, as it can be
  difficult to work with on its own.
  š Laminated foam is used in the car industry,
  interior furnishings, geotextiles, acoustic
  insulation and carpet underlay.
  š Neoprene used in wetsuits and other textile
  products is an example of a bonded fabric.
  š Neoprene is a foam rubber that is difficult to use
  on its own, but it has good insulative qualities.
  When bonded to a fine knit, its functionality is
  improved, and its usefulness extended.
  š Faux leather is created by bonding woven cotton
  to plastic or polyurethane (PU) to create a fabric
  that simulates leather.
  š This laminated fabric has many uses throughout
  textiles - upholstery in particular but also bags,
  purses, belts, and shoes.
  š PVC is an example of a coated fabric where
  polyvinylchloride is applied to fabric, such as
  cotton, which is then heat set in an oven.
  š Coated textiles can withstand many challenging
  uses.

Question 4

Gore-Tex, Permatex, Sympatex

Answer 4

Gore-Tex is an example of a laminated fabric that
has been engineered for specific purposes.
* Gore-Tex includes a permeable hydrophilic
membrane laminated between 2 other fabrics.
* Gore-Tex is used for high performance clothing
and footwear.
* It works on the principle of allowing moisture
(from perspiration) through from the inside but
does not allow larger water droplets (from rain)
to penetrate through from the outside.
* It is also wind resistant.
* When used in a jacket, it is a means of regulating
the body temperature keeping the wearer more
comfortable over long periods of activity.
* This laminated fabric appears breathable.
* Permatex and Sympatex are similar fabrics and
work in the same way.
The diagram below shows the principle of how the
hydrophilic membrane functions when laminated to
other fabrics and used in clothing.