Patent classifications
Y10T442/3106
Fabric and method of making the same
A fabric for thermal management including the cooling of an object, such as a person's skin. The fabric is formed of a plurality of functional zones arranged to extend the period of cooling without the use of artificial cooling chemicals. The functional zones include one or more of three different functional zone types. The first type diverts moisture. The second type retains and stores moisture. The third type absorbs moisture. One of the functional zones may be punched to create perforations to provide fabric flexibility and to assist in liquid diversion from within the fabric. An anchor system facilitates retention of the fabric on the object.
Conformable Microporous Fiber and Woven Fabrics Containing Same
Expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) monofilament fibers and woven fabrics formed from the ePTFE fillers are provided, The ePTFE fibers have a substantially rectangular configuration, a density less than about 1.0 glee, and an aspect ratio greater than 15. Additionally, the ePTFE fibers are microporous and have a node and fibril structure. The ePTFE fiber may be woven into a fabric without first twisting the fiber. A polymer membrane and/or a textile may be laminated to the woven fabric to produce a laminated article. The ePTFE woven fabric simultaneously possesses high moisture vapor transmission (highly breathable) and high water entry pressure (water resistant). The woven fabric is quiet, soft, and drapable, making it especially suitable for use in garments, gloves and footwear applications. Treatments may be provided to the surface of the ePTFE fiber and/or the woven fabric to impart one or more desired functionality, such as, for example, oleophobicity).