Waterproofing and water-repellent are two concepts, and the methods of processing fabrics are also completely different. Both waterproof and water-repellent technologies are applied in outdoor rainproof clothing. Here is a brief introduction to help you add some identification knowledge when buying outdoor clothing.
1. Waterproof
There are a lot of waterproof materials in ancient China, and oilcloth umbrellas are a representative product. However, this coating material has no gaps and cannot be worn directly next to the body. In order to be breathable, today’s functional waterproof fabrics often use microporous or breathable waterproof membranes to prevent water molecules from penetrating into the waterproof treatment. However, the membrane itself is too fragile, so it is necessary to rely on the cooperation of the surface fabric, membrane, and interior to achieve heatstroke prevention. Function. The waterproof ability is expressed by the water pressure resistance value, that is, a fixed area of a waterproof cloth is used to block the rising water pressure. When the third drop of water seeps out from the surface, it is the water pressure resistance value of the fabric. Generally, it can reach the basic level if it exceeds 1000mm. The higher the value, the better, because the waterproof film will reduce its water pressure resistance with washing. In outdoor activities, pressure from backpacks, kneeling on knees, sitting on the ground and sliding, etc. will increase the external water pressure, so it is necessary to exceed 3000mm. The performance of waterproof membranes varies greatly depending on the type and processing method. The waterproof and breathable membrane cannot be directly exposed to the outside, so when it is made into clothing, it can either be made into three layers of fabric and the waterproof membrane is sandwiched between the fabrics; or it can be made into a lining to also cover the waterproof membrane. It is difficult for consumers to see this film.
But in short, if it is only waterproof but not breathable, it is better to cover it with rubber or plastic cloth, which is stronger and cheaper. However, breathability is the key feature of waterproof and breathable fabrics in outdoor activities. Especially when exercising in alpine areas, the sweat generated by exercise will take away a large amount of body heat when stationary, which is very dangerous and scary, so you must choose high quality Waterproof and breathable fabric.
In short, “waterproof” is more durable than “water-repellent” and has more stable physical and chemical properties. “Waterproof” products usually will not fail due to washing and long-term use; “waterproof” has higher water resistance than “water-repellent” The pressure index is usually at least above 3000MM. Applied to clothing, the main function of water-repellent treatment is to reduce the adsorption of water by the fabric, so that the water can be “pushed away” on the surface of the fabric. A waterproof treatment is a completely impermeable barrier that keeps water out regardless of whether the fabric is absorbent or not.
2. Water-proof
The water-repellent properties of fabrics refer to the fact that the fabric has been specially treated with a water-repellent agent. The surface of the fabric can form water droplets into bead-like shapes without penetrating or spreading to wet the clothes, achieving a water-repellent function like a lotus leaf (lotus effect). Why do lotus leaves remain unstained even though they are covered with sludge? Water-repellent processing uses this principle to attach a layer of ultra-fine “needle beds” to the surface of the fabric with various chemical materials, so that the tension on the surface of the fabric is less than the cohesion of water, so when water drops, water droplets will form and roll away. Not spread out and soaked. The excellent water-repellent treatment is also very effective in protecting against dirt, and stains can be easily washed away by just rinsing with water. If the needle bed structure of this layer is flattened or covered and penetrated by oil stains, the water repellent ability of the fabric will be greatly reduced, and it may even begin to absorb water. Therefore, high-end fabrics have ultra-durable water-repellent treatment. Why do jackets need to be water-repellent? Because the surface layer of the fabric absorbs water, it will not only reduce the warmth of the clothing system, but also form a layer of water film that blocks the air in and out after getting wet, making the noble breathable raincoat become as airtight and moisture-returning as the plastic raincoat, making the wearer It feels extremely stuffy and uncomfortable, so clothing that is resistant to light rain, such as jackets or ski suits, should be treated with water-repellent treatment.
3. Waterproof and water-repellent care
Care for the waterproof function: Whether it is hand washing or machine washing, using a special detergent for jackets will have a much better protective effect on the waterproof function. Some washing machine brands have specially designed “jacket” function files on their products. The water repellency of a jacket will gradually disappear due to daily wear and tear, dust, detergents, pesticides and other impurities. If you can use professional water-repellent agent after washing, you can restore the outer waterproof membrane of the jacket to the ‘factory mode’ by DIY.
Maintenance of anti-repellent function: Put the wet clothes just now into clean water (no need to dry, just put them in directly), then pour in 50 ml of anti-repellent agent (suitable for 1-2 pieces of clothing), soak them fully for 20 minutes, and then Rinse with cold water until the water is clear. Water repellents are also available in spray form.
–This article comes from: Functional Outdoor Clothing Product R&D Center.
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