One of the most common uses of polyurethane in our day to day is in the manufacture of textiles, especially in sportswear and swimwear, but also in fashion fabrics.
The polyurethane coated fabric, or PUL fabric, is waterproof, typically polyester, but can be made of cotton or a polymer blend material that has been hot rolled to a polyurethane layer. It is lightweight and extremely durable. These fabrics are used in various industries, from medical companies to the manufacture of diapers and sportswear.
Benefits of polyurethane coated fabric
- Polyurethane is also used in the textile sector for the manufacture of underwear and lingerie. In these garments in which comfort and breathable capacity are essential to ensure comfort, polyurethane plays a key role thanks to its softness to touch and its lightness.
- It should be mentioned that polyurethane is present in the world of fashion not only in textile garments, but also acquires other functions thanks to its versatility. For example, this material is also used for the manufacture of manikins with its large capacity to imitate different finishes and materials. In fact, polyurethane systems for mannequins are present in innovative solutions such as 3D printing.
Features of polyurethane
- Polyurethane fabrics are lightweight and breathable.
- It is flexible and easy to work with and was originally designed to be used in hospitals, where a reusable fabric that was strong and also resistant to water was needed.
- Polyurethane fabrics can be manufactured in different thicknesses, depending on their use. For example, the one used in diapers may be thinner than the fabrics used for camping equipment.
- They are manufactured with several features. In situations where fuel contact is likely, it can be manufactured flame retardant.
- In addition, it can be made watertight to withstand water and moisture and resistant to abrasion.
Applications of polyurethane
Polyurethane fabrics are used in many industries, depending on the characteristics added during manufacturing. They are a raw material for medical air mattresses, awnings, life jackets and boats, and are used in oil spills and as protective clothing for industrial applications. The diaper industry uses polyurethane fabrics to replace disposable diapers, and it is also used to make lunch bags and sandwich wrappers. It is used in the manufacture of mattress covers, raincoats and camping equipment.
Care and cleaning of polyurethane
The polyurethane fabric is extremely durable, and because it blocks moisture, stains can often be removed with soap and a soft, damp sponge.
