CN105723022A - Compliant microporous fiber and woven fabric containing same - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention provides expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) monofilament fibers and woven fabrics formed from ePTFE fibers. The ePTFE fibers have a substantially rectangular configuration, a density less than about 1.0g/cc, and an aspect ratio greater than 15. In addition, the ePTFE fibers are microporous and have a node and fibril structure. The ePTFE fibers can be woven into a fabric without first twisting the fibers. A polymer film and/or textile may be laminated to the woven fabric to produce a laminated article. The ePTFE woven fabric has both high moisture vapor transmission (high air permeability) and high water intrusion pressure (water-proof). The woven fabric is weak, soft and drapable, making it particularly suitable for use in apparel, glove and footwear applications. A treatment may be applied to the surface of the ePTFE fibers and/or woven fabric to impart one or more desired functions, such as oleophobicity.

Description

Compliant microporous fiber and woven fabric containing same

field of invention

The present invention relates generally to compliant microporous fibers, and more particularly to highly breathable compliant microporous fibers having a node and fibril structure. Woven fabrics containing compliant microporous fibers are also provided.

Background of the invention

Waterproof and breathable garments are well known in the art. These garments are usually constructed of multiple layers, each of which has a specific function. For example, a garment may be constructed using an outer textile layer, a waterproof layer, a breathable membrane layer, and an inner textile layer. The outer textile layer and the inner textile layer provide protection to the breathable membrane layer. However, adding outer and inner fabric layers not only adds weight to the article of clothing, but also creates a material with potentially high water absorption on the outer surface. The absorption of water by the outer fabric layer creates a thermally conductive and water temperature pathway through the fabric and to the wearer. This may be disadvantageous in case the wearer is in a cold environment and the cold is transferred to the wearer's body. Additionally, water absorption can lead to condensation inside the garment, making the wearer feel damp. Additionally, the color of the outer fabric may fade or darken after absorbing water, compromising the aesthetic appearance of the garment. Additionally, depending on the outer fabric, the fabric itself may require a long drying time, forcing the wearer to endure the inconvenience of absorbing water for a longer period of time. Furthermore, the fibers of conventional fabrics used for the inner and outer layers are composed of multifilament fibers such that water and/or contaminants can be present between the filaments. Additionally, for breathability, multifilament fibers are loosely packed in the fabric, so water can undesirably fill the spaces between the fibers.

Therefore, there is a need in the art for fibers that are used to make woven fabrics for highly breathable garments, have high water intrusion pressure, and have low water absorption.

Contents of the invention

The object of the present invention is to provide following woven fabric: it comprises warp direction and weft direction expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) fiber, and described fiber has the microporous structure of node and fibril, and wherein, the width of ePTFE fiber exceeds The width of the ePTFE fiber is assigned to the warp or weft of the fabric. This difference in width causes the ePTFE fibers to fold over themselves to conform to the weave spacing between the intersections of warp and weft fibers. The ePTFE fibers can be monofilament fibers. The ePTFE fibers have a density of less than about 1.2 grams per cubic centimeter and an aspect ratio of greater than about 15, having a substantially rectangular cross-sectional configuration. Advantageously, ePTFE woven fabrics have both a high moisture vapor transmission rate and a high water intrusion pressure. Specifically, the woven fabric has a moisture vapor transmission rate of greater than about 10,000 grams per square meter per 24 hours and a water intrusion pressure of greater than about 1 kPa. Therefore, the woven fabric is highly breathable, has low water absorption and is highly waterproof.

Another object of the present invention is to provide the following woven fabric: it includes a plurality of warp fibers and weft fibers, wherein each of the warp fibers and the weft fibers includes expanded polytetrafluoroethylene fibers, the polytetrafluoroethylene fibers Density is less than about 1.2 grams per cubic centimeter and has a substantially rectangular cross-sectional configuration. The ePTFE fibers can be monofilament fibers. The aspect ratio of at least one of the warp ePTFE fibers and weft ePTFE fibers may be greater than about 15. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the width of the ePTFE fibers is greater than the number of picks per inch of the woven fabric. Further, the woven fabric has an average stiffness of less than about 300 g and a water absorption of less than 30 gsm. The warp and weft fibers can have a fluorinated acrylate coating to render the woven fabric oleophobic. A fluoropolymer film or other functional film or protective layer may be affixed to the side of the woven fabric opposite the fluorinated acrylate coating. In some embodiments, textiles can be affixed to fluoropolymer films to form laminated articles. In other embodiments, the fluoropolymer film and/or textile may be affixed to the woven fabric without applying a coating.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a woven fabric comprising warp and weft fibers of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene fibers having an aspect ratio greater than about 15 and having a substantially rectangular cross-sectional configuration. The woven fabric has a water intrusion pressure of greater than about 1 kPa and a moisture vapor transmission rate of greater than about 10,000 g/m2/24 hours. The ePTFE fibers can be monofilament fibers. Additionally, the fibers have a pre-weave thickness of less than about 100 microns, a pre-weave width of less than about 4.0 mm, and a pre-weave density of less than about 1.0 grams per cubic centimeter. Further, the ePTFE fibers have a node and fibril structure, wherein the nodes are interconnected by fibrils defining pathways through the fibers. The fibrils may be from about 5 microns to about 120 microns in length.

Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a woven fabric comprising warp and weft fluoropolymer fibers, wherein at least one of the warp and weft fluoropolymer fibers exhibits a The folded configuration of the fiber length. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the fluoropolymer fibers are ePTFE fibers having a density of less than about 1.2 grams per cubic centimeter and a substantially rectangular configuration. In an exemplary embodiment, the ePTFE fibers have a pre-weaving density of less than about 0.85 grams/cubic centimeter. The woven fabric has a moisture vapor transmission rate of greater than about 10,000 grams per square meter per 24 hours and a water intrusion pressure of greater than about 1 kPa. Additionally, the woven fabric has a tear strength of at least 30 N and an average stiffness of less than about 300 g. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the width of the fluoropolymer fibers exceeds the width assigned to the fluoropolymer fibers based on the warp count or weft count of the woven fabric.

It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a woven fabric comprising compliant warp and weft fluoropolymer fibers, wherein at least one of the warp and weft fibers has nodes and Fibril structure. The fibrils may be from about 5 microns to about 120 microns in length. In at least one embodiment, the fluoropolymer fibers are ePTFE fibers having a density before weaving of less than about 1.0 g/cc, and in other embodiments, less than about 0.85 g/cc. The compliance of the fibers enables the fibers to curl and/or fold upon themselves to conform to the weave spacing between intersections of the warp and weft fibers in the weave construction. Additionally, a functional membrane or protective layer, such as a fluoropolymer membrane, can be affixed to the ePTFE woven fabric. In some embodiments, the textile is affixed to a fluoropolymer film to form a laminate.

Another object of the present invention is to provide monofilament fibers comprising expanded polytetrafluoroethylene. The ePTFE monofilament fibers have a density of less than or equal to about 1.0 g/cc, a thickness of less than about 100 microns, a width of less than about 4.0 mm, an aspect ratio of greater than about 15, and a substantially rectangular cross-sectional configuration. Additionally, the fibers have a tenacity of greater than about 1.6 cN/dtex and a breaking strength of at least about 1.5N. The ePTFE monofilament fibers may have a fluorinated acrylate coating, or other oleophobic treatment on them. Additionally, the ePTFE monofilament fibers have a node and fibril configuration, wherein the nodes and fibrils define pathways throughout the fiber. The fibrils may be from about 5 microns to about 120 microns in length. Further, the ePTFE monofilament fibers are compliant such that in the woven configuration, the ePTFE monofilament fibers fold over themselves to conform to the weave spacing between intersections of warp and weft fibers in the woven fabric. Such ePTFE monofilament fibers are used in exemplary embodiments of the present invention to form woven fabrics that can be used ultimately for applications requiring high moisture vapor transmission rates and high water intrusion pressures (i.e., high air permeability and high waterproofing) products.

An advantage of the present invention is that the ePTFE woven fabric has high air permeability and high water intrusion pressure even when the ePTFE fibers are tightly woven.

Another advantage of the present invention is that ePTFE fibers can be tightly woven into a woven fabric that is highly breathable yet has low air permeability.

It is also an advantage of the present invention that the woven fabric is quiet, soft and drapable.

Another advantage of the present invention is that the high aspect ratio of the ePTFE fibers allows fabrics to have a lower basis weight, allow for easier and more efficient reshaping, and allow for smaller picksperinch and endsperinch High water resistance is obtained in the woven fabric.

A feature of the present invention is that the ePTFE fibers are crimped and/or folded upon themselves to conform to the weave spacing between intersections of warp and weft fibers in the woven fabric.

The invention is also characterized in that the woven fabric comprised of ePTFE fibers has a flat or substantially flat weave pattern with a correspondingly smooth surface.

The invention is also characterized in that the ePTFE fibers have a substantially rectangular cross-sectional configuration, especially before weaving.

Brief description of the drawings

The advantages of the present invention can be more clearly understood in consideration of the following detailed description of the invention, especially in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 is a scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of the top surface of an exemplary ePTFE fiber taken at 1000X magnification according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 2 is a scanning electron micrograph of one side of the ePTFE fiber shown in Fig. 1 taken under 1000 times magnification;

Figure 3 is a scanning electron micrograph of the top surface of a 2/2 twill weave fabric of the fibers shown in Figure 1 taken at 150X magnification;

Figure 4 is a scanning electron micrograph of one side of the woven fabric shown in Figure 3 taken at 150X magnification;

Figure 5 is a scanning electron micrograph taken at 150X magnification of the top surface of the 2/2 twill weave fabric shown in Figure 3 having a fluorinated acrylate coating thereon;

Figure 6 is a scanning electron micrograph of one side of the woven fabric shown in Figure 5 taken at 150X magnification;

Figure 7 is a scanning electron micrograph of the top surface of the 2/2 twill weave fabric with the ePTFE membrane laminated thereon shown in Figure 5 taken at 150X magnification;

Figure 8 is a scanning electron micrograph taken at 100X magnification of one side of the article shown in Figure 7;

Figure 9 is a scanning electron micrograph of one side of the fabric shown in Figure 7 taken at 1000X magnification;

Figure 10 is a scanning electron micrograph taken at 150X magnification of the top surface of the woven fabric shown in Figure 5 laminated to a textile fabric in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 11 is a scanning electron micrograph taken at 100X magnification of one side of the article shown in Figure 10;

Figure 12 is a scanning electron micrograph taken at 500X magnification of one side of the article shown in Figure 10;

Figure 13 is a scanning electron micrograph taken at 150X magnification of the top surface of a woven fabric with an ePTFE membrane laminated thereon in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 14 is a scanning electron micrograph taken at 100X magnification of one side of the article shown in Figure 13;

Figure 15 is a scanning electron micrograph taken at 300X magnification of one side of the article shown in Figure 13;

Figure 16 is a scanning electron micrograph of the top surface of a plain weave fabric taken at 150X magnification in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 17 is a scanning electron micrograph taken at 250X magnification of one side of the fabric shown in Figure 16;

Figure 18 is a scanning electron micrograph taken at 150X magnification of the top surface of the plain weave fabric shown in Figure 16 having a fluorinated acrylate coating thereon;

Figure 19 is a scanning electron micrograph taken at 250X magnification of one side of the woven fabric shown in Figure 18;

Figure 20 is a scanning electron micrograph taken at 150X magnification of the top surface of the woven fabric shown in Figure 16 laminated with ePTFE membrane and textile fabric in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 21 is a scanning electron micrograph taken at 250X magnification of a side view of the article shown in Figure 20;

Figure 22 is a scanning electron micrograph taken at 1000X magnification of the top surface of an exemplary ePTFE fiber according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 23 is a scanning electron micrograph of one side of the ePTFE fiber shown in Figure 22 taken at 1000X magnification;

Figure 24 is a scanning electron micrograph of the top surface of the 2/2 twill weave of ePTFE fibers shown in Figure 22 taken at 150X magnification;

Figure 25 is a scanning electron micrograph taken at 200X magnification of one side of the fabric shown in Figure 24;

Figure 26 is a scanning electron micrograph taken at 150X magnification of the top surface of the twill weave fabric shown in Figure 16 having a fluorinated acrylate coating thereon;

Figure 27 is a scanning electron micrograph taken at 200X magnification of one side of the fabric shown in Figure 26;

Figure 28 is a scanning electron micrograph taken at 1000X magnification of the top surface of an exemplary ePTFE fiber according to a further embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 29 is a scanning electron micrograph taken at 1000X magnification of one side of the fiber shown in Figure 28;

Figure 30 is a scanning electron micrograph of the top surface of the 2/2 twill weave fabric of ePTFE fibers shown in Figure 26 taken at 150X magnification;

Figure 31 is a scanning electron micrograph taken at 150X magnification of one side of the fabric shown in Figure 30;

Figure 32 is a scanning electron micrograph of the top surface of a high density contrast ePTFE fiber taken at 1000X magnification;

Figure 33 is a scanning electron micrograph taken at 1000X magnification of one side of the woven fabric of the fibers shown in Figure 32;

Figure 34 is a scanning electron micrograph of the top surface of a comparative 2/2 twill weave fabric utilizing fibers of comparative high density ePTFE taken at 150X magnification;

Figure 35 is a scanning electron micrograph taken at 150X magnification of one side of the fabric shown in Figure 34;

Figure 36 is a scanning electron micrograph of the top surface of an exemplary fiber taken at 1000X magnification;

Figure 37 is a scanning electron micrograph taken at 1000X magnification of one side of the fiber shown in Figure 36;

Figure 38 is a scanning electron micrograph taken at 150X magnification of the top surface of the woven fabric of fibers shown in Figure 36;

Figure 39 is a scanning electron micrograph taken at 150X magnification of one side of the fabric shown in Figure 38;

40 is a schematic side view depicting exemplary fibers in a woven configuration folded into a folded configuration to accommodate the space allocated to the fibers;

41 is a schematic top view depicting exemplary fibers in a woven configuration folded into a folded configuration to accommodate the space allocated to the fibers;

Figure 42 is a scanning electron micrograph of the top surface of an exemplary plain weave fabric having a thread count of 40 x 40 taken at 150X magnification;

Figure 43 is a scanning electron micrograph of one side of the woven fabric shown in Figure 42 taken at 150X magnification;

Figure 44 is a scanning electron micrograph taken at 300X magnification of one side of the woven fabric shown in Figure 42;

Figure 45 is a scanning electron micrograph taken at 400X magnification of one side of the woven fabric shown in Figure 42;

Figure 46 is a scanning electron micrograph of the top surface of a comparative non-porous ePTFE fiber taken at 1000X magnification;

Figure 47 is a scanning electron micrograph taken at 1000X magnification of one side of the fiber shown in Figure 46;

Figure 48 is a scanning electron micrograph of a woven fabric of the fibers shown in Figure 46 taken at 150X magnification;

Figure 49 is a scanning electron micrograph taken at 150X magnification of one side of the woven fabric shown in Figure 48;

Figure 50 is a scanning electron micrograph of the top surface of a comparative woven fabric of fibers of comparative high density ePTFE taken at 150X magnification;

Figure 51 is a scanning electron micrograph taken at 150X magnification of the side surface of the woven fabric shown in Figure 50; and

Fig. 52 is a scanning electron micrograph for illustrating the measurement of the gap width.

definition

The terms "monofilament fiber" and "monofilament ePTFE fiber" are used herein to describe continuous or substantially continuous ePTFE fibers that can be woven into fabrics.

The terms "fiber" and "ePTFE fiber" as used herein include monofilament ePTFE fibers as well as multiple monofilament ePTFE fibers, such as fibers in a side-by-side configuration, fibers in a bundle configuration, or fibers in a twisted or otherwise interwoven form.

As used herein, the terms "compliant" and "compliant fibers" are used to describe their ability to curl and/or fold to conform to the weft density of warp and weft fibers between the intersections of warp and weft fibers. (picksperinch) and/or by density (endsperinch) amount of weaving spacing.

As used herein, "high water intrusion pressure" is used to describe a woven fabric having a water intrusion pressure greater than about 1 kPa.

As used herein, the term "low water absorption" is used to refer to woven fabrics that have a water absorption of less than about 50 gsm.

As used herein, the term "substantially rectangular in configuration" is used to refer to compliant porous fibers having a rectangular or approximately rectangular cross-section, with or without rounded or sharp edges (or sides).

Detailed description of the invention

The present invention relates to compliant microporous fibers having a node and fibril structure, and woven fabrics made from said fibers. Polymeric films and/or textiles may be laminated to the woven fabrics to produce laminated articles. The woven fabric has simultaneously high moisture vapor transmission rate (ie, high air permeability), high water intrusion pressure and low water absorption. The woven fabric can be colored, for example by printing. In addition, the woven fabric is plain, soft, and drapable, making it particularly suitable for apparel, glove, and footwear applications. It should be noted that the terms "woven fabric" and "fabric" are used interchangeably herein. Additionally, the terms "ePTFE fiber" and "fiber" are used interchangeably in this application.

The compliant fiber has a structure of nodes and fibrils, wherein the nodes are interconnected by fibrils and the spaces between the fibrils define pathways through the fibrils. Additionally, the compliant fibers are microporous. Microporosity is defined herein as having pores that are not visible to the naked eye. The node and fibril structure within the fibers makes the fibers and fabrics woven from the fibers highly breathable and permeable to colorants and oleophobic compositions. Additionally, the matrix provided by the nodes and fibrils allows for the inclusion of desired fillers and/or additives.

It should be understood with respect to compliant microporous fibers; reference herein to expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) is for ease of description. However, it should be understood that any suitable conformable fluoropolymer having a node and fibril structure may be used interchangeably with ePTFE within this application. Non-limiting examples of fluoropolymers include, but are not limited to, expanded PTFE, expanded modified PTFE, expanded PTFE copolymers, fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP), and perfluoroalkoxy copolymer resins (PFA). Expandable PTFE blends, expandable modified PTFE, and expanded PTFE copolymers have been granted patents such as, but not limited to, U.S. Patent No. 5,708,044 to Branca; U.S. Patent No. 6,541,589 to Baillie; U.S. Patent No. to Sabol et al. No. 7,531,611; US Patent Application No. 11/906,877 by Ford; and US Patent Application No. 12/410,050 by Xu et al. The fibril length of the ePTFE fibers ranges from about 5 microns to about 120 microns, from about 10 microns to about 100 microns, from about 15 microns to about 80 microns, or from about 15 microns to about 60 microns.

Additionally, the ePTFE fibers have a substantially rectangular configuration. At least Figures 4, 6, 12, 14, 17, 19, 21, 27, 30, 39, 43, 44, 45 of this application depict exemplary ePTFE fibers having a substantially rectangular configuration. As used herein, the term "substantially rectangular in configuration" is used to indicate that fibers have a rectangular or approximately rectangular cross-section. That is, ePTFE fibers are wider than they are tall (thick). It should be noted that the fibers may have rounded edges or sharp edges (or sides). Unlike conventional fibers, which must be twisted before weaving, ePTFE fibers can be woven in a flat state without first being twisted. The ePTFE fibers can be advantageously woven with the width of the fibers oriented to form the top surface of the woven fabric. Accordingly, woven fabrics comprised of inventive ePTFE fibers have a flat or substantially flat weave pattern and a correspondingly smooth surface. The smooth and flat surface of the fabric enhances the softness of the woven fabric.

Additionally, the ePTFE fibers used herein have low density. More specifically, the fibers have a pre-weaving density of less than about 1.0 grams per cubic centimeter. In exemplary embodiments, the fibers have a pre-weaving density of less than about 0.9 g/cc, less than about 0.85 g/cm, less than about 0.8 g/cm, less than about 0.75 g/cm, Less than about 0.7 grams per cubic centimeter, Less than about 0.65 grams per cubic centimeter, Less than about 0.6 grams per cubic centimeter, Less than about 0.5 grams per cubic centimeter, Less than about 0.4 grams per cubic centimeter, Less than about 0.3 grams per cubic centimeter /cubic centimeter, or less than about 0.2 g/cubic centimeter. The process used to make the fabric, such as weaving, folds the ePTFE fibers and increases the density of the fibers while maintaining breathability throughout the woven fabric. As a result, the fibers have a post-weaving density of less than or equal to about 1.2 grams per cubic centimeter. The low density of the fibers (before and after weaving) also enhances the breathability of the fibers.

Additionally, the fibers may have a weight per unit length of about 50 dtex to about 3500 dtex, about 70 dtex to about 1000 dtex, about 80 dtex to about 500 dtex, about 90 dtex to about 400 dtex, about 100 dtex to about 300 dtex, or about 100 dtex to about 200 dtex. It should be noted that a lower dtex provides a lower weight/area fabric which increases the comfort of garments formed from the fabric. In addition, the low denier value of ePTFE fibers enables high stick resistance of woven fabrics. Stick resistance refers to the ability of a fabric to resist the grasping and movement of individual fibers within the fabric. In general, the finer the fibers (eg, lower denier or dtex) the tighter the weave, resulting in better stick resistance.

The ePTFE fibers also have a height (thickness) (before or after weaving) of less than about 200 microns. In some embodiments, the thickness ranges from about 20 microns to about 150 microns, from 20 microns to about 100 microns, from about 20 microns to about 70 microns, from about 20 microns to 50 microns, from about 20 microns to 40 microns, or about 26 microns - 36 microns. The height (thickness) of the ePTFE fibers before or after weaving may be less than 100 microns, less than 75 microns, less than 50 microns, less than 40 microns, less than 30 microns, or less than 20 microns. The fibers also have a width (before or after weaving) of less than about 4.0 mm. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the fiber may have a width of about 0.5 mm to about 4.0 mm, about 0.40 mm to about 3.0 mm, about 0.45 mm to about 2.0 mm, or about 0.45 mm to about 1.5 mm before and after weaving. mm. The resulting aspect ratio (ie, the ratio of width to height) of the ePTFE fibers is greater than about 10. In some embodiments, the aspect ratio is greater than about 15, greater than about 20, greater than about 25, greater than about 30, greater than about 40, or greater than about 50. High aspect ratios, such as those of ePTFE fibers, allow fabrics to have lower basis weight, allow for easier and more efficient reshaping, and enable high water resistance in woven fabrics with lower pick and warp densities .

Further, the tenacity of ePTFE fibers is greater than about 1.4 cN/dtex. In at least one embodiment of the invention, the tenacity of the ePTFE fibers is from about 1.6 cN/dtex to about 5 cN/dtex, from about 1.8 cN/dtex to about 4 cN/dtex, or from about 1.9 cN/dtex to about 3 cN/dtex. Additionally, the ePTFE fibers have a fiber breaking strength of at least about 1.5N. In one or more embodiments, the ePTFE fibers have a fiber breaking strength of about 2N to about 20N, about 2N to about 15N, about 2N to about 10N, or about 2N to about 5N.

The ePTFE fibers described herein can be used to form woven fabrics having a repeating weave pattern in which warp and weft fibers are interwoven with each other. Any weave pattern, such as but not limited to plain weave, satin weave, twill weave, and basket weave, can be used to form ePTFE fibers into a woven fabric. When the width of the ePTFE fibers is less than the space allocated to the fibers based on the number of weft and/or warp yarns per inch, the ePTFE fibers can be woven flat without creases or wrinkles. When such fibers are loosely woven, there are visible gaps between the crossings (points of intersection) of warp and weft fibers. As such, the fibers are highly breathable, but not waterproof. Such large gaps in the fibers may be acceptable in applications where water repellency is provided eg by another layer, or where coverage is generally required and water repellency is not important.

In other embodiments, ePTFE fibers are more tightly woven, such as when the width of the ePTFE fibers exceeds the space allotted in the woven fabric based on the number of pick or warp yarns per inch. In such fibers, there are no or substantially no gaps between crossings. Relative to the space provided to the fibers based on the number of weft and/or warp yarns per inch, the width of the ePTFE fibers may be 1 times greater, about 1.5 times greater, about 2 times greater, about 3 times greater, greater than About 4 times higher, about 4.5 times higher, about 5 times higher, about 5.5 times higher, or about 6 times higher (or more). In other words, the ePTFE fibers are woven more tightly than the width of the ePTFE fibers. In this embodiment, the ePTFE fibers begin the weaving process in a substantially rectangular configuration. However, due to the size of the fibers providing more space than the pick and/or warp density, the ePTFE fibers curl and/or fold themselves to conform to the number of picks and/or warps per inch of the warp and weft fibers weaving pitch. Usually, creases or crimps are generated in the width of fibers, and the width of individual fibers becomes smaller as the creases or crimps occur in the fibers. Therefore, the fibers are in a folded configuration along the length of the fibers.

The compliance of ePTFE fibers is schematically depicted in FIGS. 40 and 41 . In Figures 40 and 41, the fibers 10 will be positioned in the spaces (S) of the woven fabric. As shown in Figures 40 and 41, the width (W) of the fiber 10 is larger than the space (S) allocated to the fiber 10 in the woven fabric. To conform to the space (S) allotted to the fiber 10, the fiber 10 is folded or crimped into a folded configuration 15, as shown in FIG.

The "foldability" or "folded conformation" of the ePTFE fibers is represented by a line 20 extending along the length of the fibers, as at least in FIGS. shown. Figures 44 and 45 are cross-sectional SEM photographs of exemplary woven fabrics illustrating the compliance of the ePTFE fibers, as the folding (and/or crimping) of the fibers themselves is clearly depicted in these figures. Figure 41 is a schematic top view of fibers in a crimped configuration. The fibers themselves may be folded in the warp direction and/or in the weft direction. As shown in Figure 41, the fibers fit into the space (S). In a fabric comprising warp fibers and weft fibers, at least one of the warp fibers and weft fibers is folded along or substantially along the length of the fibers. Thus, the ePTFE fibers are folded and/or crimped to a smaller width in the woven fabric. As a prophetic example, in an 88ppi x 88epi woven fabric and ePTFE fibers with a width of 1 mm, the ePTFE fibers fold over themselves to create a folded width less than 1/3.5 of its original width to fit the space provided in the fabric construction ( For example, 88ppi divided by 25.4mm (1 inch) is 3.5 picks per mm).

The conformability of ePTFE fibers enables larger sized ePTFE fibers to be used at smaller weave pitches. Increasing the number of weft and/or warp yarns per inch relative to the width of the fibers reduces or even eliminates gaps where warp and weft fibers cross. This tightly woven fabric is highly breathable while also being waterproof (eg, has a high water intrusion pressure). It should be noted that the fabric is breathable not only through any gaps that may exist, but also through the ePTFE fibers themselves. Even in the absence of gaps, the woven fabric is breathable. In contrast, conventional woven fabrics become impermeable when tightly woven.

Without intending to be bound by theory, it is believed that the conformability and node and fibril structure of ePTFE fibers enable woven fabrics to achieve many, if not all, of the properties and advantages described herein. For example, when weaving the fibers, the nodes of the ePTFE fibers help the fibers maintain an "open" fibrillar configuration. The open pores of ePTFE fibers greatly enhance the breathability of the woven fabric. The fineness of the pores prevents water from entering the fiber structure while maintaining high breathability. As previously mentioned, the conformability of ePTFE fibers allows the fibers to be woven into a tight configuration to make the woven fabric waterproof while also being breathable.

Treatments may be provided to impart one or more desired functions to the woven fabric, such as, but not limited to, oleophobicity. When provided with an oleophobic coating, such as but not limited to a fluorinated acrylate oleophobic coating, the woven fabric has an oil rating of greater than or equal to 1, greater than or equal to 2, greater than or equal to 3. Greater than or equal to 4, greater than or equal to 5, or greater than or equal to 6. Coatings or treatments, such as fluorinated acrylate coatings, may be applied to one or both sides of the woven fabric and penetrate or only partially penetrate the woven fabric. It is understood that any waterproof and breathable functional protective layer, functional coating or functional film, such as but not limited to polyamide, polyester, polyurethane, cellulol, non-fluoropolymer films, may be attached, or in the form of Other ways to fix or layer on woven fabric.

The woven fabric can be colored with a suitable colorant composition. The ePTFE fibers have a microstructure in which the pores of the ePTFE fibers are close enough to provide water repellency and open enough to provide moisture vapor permeability as well as the property of penetration of colorant coatings. The ePTFE fibers have a surface that provides durable aesthetics when printed. In some embodiments, aesthetic permanence can be achieved with a colorant coating composition comprising a pigment having a particle size small enough to be contained within the pores of ePTFE fibers and/or within the woven fabric. Multiple colors can be applied using multiple pigments and by varying the concentration of one or more pigments, or by a combination of these techniques. In addition, the coating composition may be applied, for example, in the form of a solid, pattern or impression. The coating composition can be applied to woven fabrics by conventional printing methods. Application methods for coloring include, but are not limited to, transfer coating, screen printing, gravure printing, inkjet printing, and blade coating.

Unlike conventional woven fabrics, ePTFE woven fabrics are able to breathe through the fibers forming the fabric (ie, ePTFE fibers) and also through the gaps formed between the ePTFE fibers when weaving. As discussed above, ePTFE fibers have a node and fibril structure that forms pathways through the fibers, making the ePTFE fibers breathable. When weaving ePTFE fibers, the node and fibril structures maintain open pathways. Therefore, the ePTFE woven fabric maintains its high air permeability even when the ePTFE fibers are tightly woven without forming gaps or substantially no gaps in the woven structure. The ePTFE woven fabric has a Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MVTR) greater than about 3000 g/m2/24 hours, greater than about 5000 g/m2/24 hours when tested according to the Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MVTR) Test Method described herein hours, greater than about 8,000 g/m/24 hours, greater than about 10,000 g/m/24 hours, greater than about 12,000 g/m/24 hours, greater than about 20,000 g/m/24 hours, or greater than about 25,000 g/m2/24 hours. As used herein, the terms "breathable" and "breathable" refer to a woven fabric or laminate having a moisture vapor transmission rate (MVTR) of at least about 3000 grams per square meter per 24 hours. The moisture vapor transmission rate or breathability provides cooling to the wearer of a garment made, for example, of the woven fabric.

The air permeability of the woven fabric is less than about 500 cfm, less than about 300 cfm, less than 100 cfm, less than about 50 cfm, less than about 25 cfm, less than about 20 cfm, less than about 15 cfm, less than about 10 cfm, less than about 5 cfm, less than about 3 cfm, even less than about 2 cfm. It will be appreciated that low air permeability is associated with increased wind resistance of the fabric.

The ePTFE woven fabrics described herein have a water absorption of less than or equal to about 50 grams/square meter, less than or equal to about 40 grams/square meter, less than or equal to about 30 grams/square meter, less than or equal to about 25 grams/square meter, less than or equal to equal to about 20 g/m2, less than or equal to about 15 g/m2, or less than or equal to about 10 g/m2, and a water intrusion pressure of at least about 1 kPa, at least about 1.5 kPa, at least about 2 kPa, At least about 3 kPa, at least about 4 kPa, at least about 5 kPa, or at least about 6 kPa. The ePTFE fibers restrict the entry of water into the woven fabric (into, for example, the fiber structure and through the interstices of the woven fabric), thereby eliminating the problems associated with conventional woven fabrics, which is that the woven fabric absorbs water, which in turn makes the fibers heavier and the temperature of the water Heat conduction through the fabric. In situations where the wearer is in a cold environment, this thermal conductivity may be disadvantageous and the cold may be transferred to the wearer's body.

In addition, woven fabrics are thin and lightweight, making it easy for end users to carry and/or transport articles formed from woven fabrics. The weight of the woven fabric can be from about 50 grams per square meter to about 500 grams per square meter, from about 80 grams per square meter to about 300 grams per square meter, or from about 90 grams per square meter to about 250 grams per square meter. Additionally, the woven fabric may have a weight per unit area of less than about 1000 grams per square meter, less than about 500 grams per square meter, less than about 400 grams per square meter, less than about 300 grams per square meter, less than about 200 grams per square meter per square meter, less than about 150 grams per square meter, or less than about 100 grams per square meter. Further, the height (thickness) of the woven fabric can be about 0.05mm-about 2mm, about 0.1mm-about 1mm, about 0.1mm-about 0.6mm, about 0.1mm-about 0.5mm, about 0.1mm-about 0.4mm, about 0.15 mm to about 0.25 mm, or about 0.1 mm to about 0.3 mm. The woven fabric is thin so that articles formed from the woven fabric are tightly folded. The thin and light properties also contribute to the overall comfort of the wearer of the garment, especially during movement of the wearer, the wearer is less restricted in movement.

Further, the woven fabric is soft to the touch and drapable, making it suitable for garments, gloves and footwear. The average stiffness of the woven fabric is less than about 1000 g, less than about 500 g, less than about 400 g, less than about 300 g, less than about 250 g, less than about 200 g, less than about 150 g, less than about 100 g, or even less than about 50 g. It was surprisingly found that, in addition to a soft hand, the woven fabric exhibits reduced noise when bent or folded. Furthermore, it was found that even when a porous polymer membrane was added, the noise was reduced as will be described later, especially when compared with a conventional ePTFE laminate.

The woven fabric is also tear resistant. For example, the woven fabric has a tear strength of from about 10N to about 200N (or greater), from about 15N to about 150N, or from about 20N- About 100N. This high tear strength makes the woven fabric more durable.

In at least one embodiment, a porous or microporous polymeric membrane is laminated or bonded to a woven fabric. Non-limiting examples of porous membranes include expanded PTFE, expanded modified PTFE, expanded PTFE copolymers, fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP), and perfluoroalkoxy copolymer resins (PFA). Polymeric materials such as polyolefins (eg, polypropylene and polyethylene), polyurethanes, and polyesters are considered within the scope of this invention, provided that the polymeric materials can be processed to form porous or microporous membrane structures. It is understood that even when the inventive woven fabric is laminated or bonded to a porous or microporous membrane, the resulting laminate remains highly breathable and substantially maintains the breathability of the woven fabric. In other words, the porous or microporous membrane laminated to the woven fabric has no or only minimal influence on the air permeability of the woven fabric even when the woven fabric is laminated.

The porous membrane may be an asymmetric membrane. As used herein, "asymmetric" means a membrane structure comprising multiple layers of ePTFE in a membrane in which the microstructure of at least one layer differs from the microstructure of a second layer in the membrane. Differences between the first microstructure and the second microstructure may result from, for example, differences in pore size, differences in node and/or fibril geometry or size, and/or differences in density.

In further embodiments, textiles may be attached to microporous membranes or directly to woven fabrics. The term "textile" as used herein is used to denote any woven, nonwoven, felt, fleece or knitted fabric, capable of being made of natural and/or synthetic fiber materials and/or other fibers or Made of flocking material. For example, materials from which the textile may be constructed are such as, but not limited to, cotton, rayon, nylon, polyester, or blends thereof. Except as required by the present application, the weight of the materials forming the textile is not particularly limited. In an exemplary embodiment, the textile is air permeable and breathable.

Any suitable method of joining the film and/or textile to the woven fabric (and textile to the film) may be used, such as gravure lamination, fusion bonding, spray bonding (spray adhesive bonding) and so on. The adhesive can be applied discontinuously or continuously, provided that breathability in the laminate is maintained. For example, the adhesive may be applied in discrete connections, such as discrete dots or a grid pattern, or in the form of an adhesive network to bond the layers of the laminate together.

Woven ePTFE fabrics are suitable for a variety of applications including, but not limited to, apparel, tents, covers, camping bags, footwear, gloves, and more. The woven fabric is highly breathable and waterproof at the same time. These favorable properties are obtained, or at least partially obtained, due to the high aspect ratio of ePTFE fibers. The ePTFE woven fabric can be used alone, or it can be used in combination with fluoropolymer membranes and/or textiles. The surface of the ePTFE woven fabric can be colored by, for example, printing. Additionally, the surface of the ePTFE fabric and/or ePTFE fibers may be coated with an oleophobic coating composition to impart oleophobicity. It should be understood that the benefits and advantages described herein apply equally to knitted fabrics and articles, as well as the knitted fabrics and articles discussed herein.

testing method

It is to be understood that while certain methods and apparatus are described below, any method or apparatus determined to be suitable by one of ordinary skill in the art may alternatively be employed.

fiber weight per unit length

A 45 meter long fiber was obtained using a skein reel. The 45-meter-long fiber was then weighed using a balance accurate to 0.0001 gram. The weight is then magnified 200 times, and the weight per unit length is given in denier (grams/9000 meters). This value is then multiplied by a factor of 10 and divided by 9 to give the weight per unit length in dtex (grams/10000 metres).

fiber width

Fiber width was measured in a conventional manner using a 1Ox eye ring with a 0.1 mm graduation. Three measurements are taken and averaged to determine the width to the nearest 0.05mm.

Fiber thickness

Fiber thickness was measured using a caliper gauge accurate to 0.0001 inch. Measure carefully to avoid compressing the fibers with the caliper. Three measurements were taken and averaged, then converted to 0.0001mm.

fiber density

Fiber density was calculated using the previously measured fiber weight per unit length, fiber width and fiber thickness by the following formula:

fiber breaking strength

Fiber breaking strength is a measure of the maximum load required to break (rupture) a fiber. By means of a tensile tester (such as the one in Canton, Mass. Machinery Co.) measured the breaking strength. The machine is equipped with a fiber (horn-type) clip suitable for securing the fiber and entrapped items during tensile load measurements. The crosshead speed of the tensile tester was 25.4 cm per minute. The gauge length is 25.4cm. Five measurements are made for each type of fiber and the average value is reported in Newtons.

Fiber toughness

Fiber tenacity is the breaking strength of a fiber normalized to the weight per unit length of the fiber. Fiber tenacity was calculated using the following formula:

Fiber and Membrane Thickness

Fabric and film thicknesses were measured by placing the film or fabric laminate between two plates of a Mitutoyo 543-252BS caliper. The average of three measurements was used. It is understood that the thickness of fibers and/or films may be determined by any suitable method as determined by one skilled in the art.

Membrane Matrix Tensile Strength (MTS)

Use a flat-faced grip and a 0.445 kN pressure load cell The 1122 Tensile Tester measures the matrix tensile strength of the film. The gauge length is 5.08 cm, and the crosshead speed is 50.8 cm/min. The dimensions of the sample are 2.54 cm x 15.24 cm. To ensure comparable results, keep the laboratory temperature between 68°F (20°C) and 72°F (22.2°C) to ensure comparable results. If the sample breaks at the grip interface, discard the data.

For machine direction MTS measurements, the larger dimension of the sample is oriented in the machine or "downweb" direction. For transverse MTS testing, the larger dimension of the sample is oriented perpendicular to the machine direction, also known as the "cross-web" direction. Each sample was weighed using a Mettler-Toledo model AG204 balance. The thickness of the sample was then measured using a Kafer FZ1000/30 caliper. Each sample was then tested individually on a tensile tester. Three different sections were measured for each sample. The average of three maximum load (ie peak force) measurements is used.

Calculate the vertical and horizontal MTS using the following formula:

MTS=(maximum load/cross-sectional area)×(bulk density of PTFE)/porous membrane density),

The bulk density of PTFE is 2.2 g/ ^cm3 .

The average of the three cross-web measurements was recorded as the longitudinal and transverse MTS.

film density

To calculate the density of the films, the measured values from the tensile test of the substrates were used. As mentioned above, the dimensions of the samples are 2.54 cm x 15.24 cm. Each sample was weighed using a Mettler Toledo Scale Model AG204, and then the thickness of the sample was measured using a Kafer FZ1000/30 gauge. Using this data, calculate the density of the sample according to the following formula:

$\mathrm{<span\; class="notranslate">\; \&rho;</span>}<span\; class="notranslate">\; =</span>\frac{\mathrm{<span\; class="notranslate">\; m</span>}}{\mathrm{<span\; class="notranslate">\; w</span>}<span\; class="notranslate">\; *</span>\mathrm{<span\; class="notranslate">\; l</span>}<span\; class="notranslate">\; *</span>\mathrm{<span\; class="notranslate">\; t</span>}}$

Where: ρ = density (grams/cubic centimeter)

m = mass (g)

w = width (1.5cm)

l = length (16.5cm)

t = thickness (cm)

The reported results are the average of 3 calculations.

Gurley air flow of the membrane

The Gurley air flow test measures the time (in seconds) for a flow of 100 ^cm3 air to pass through a 6.45 ^cm2 sample under 12.4 cm water pressure. The samples were tested in a Gurley Densometer Model 4340 Automatic Densometer Model 4340. When performing multiple tests on the same sample, care must be taken to ensure that the edges of the test areas do not overlap. (When clamped to create a seal during the Gurley test there is compression of the material along the edges of the test area which may affect the air flow results). The reported results are the average of 3 measurements.

Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate Test - (MVTR)

The MVTR of each sample fabric was determined according to the general teaching of ISO 15496, except that the water vapor transmission rate (WVP) of the sample was converted to the moisture vapor transmission rate ( MVTR).

MVTR＝(ΔP value×24)/((1/WVP)+(1+WVPapp value))

To ensure comparable results, the specimens were conditioned at 73.4±0.4°F and 50±2% relative humidity for 2 hours prior to testing, and the water bath was kept constant at 73.4°F±0.4°F.

MVTR was measured once for each sample and the results expressed as grams/square meter/24 hours.

Mass/Area

For mass/area measurements, fabric samples with an area of at least 100 ^cm2 were prepared. Karl Schroder 100cm ² round wire cutters may be used. Each sample was weighed using a Mettler-Toledo model AB204 balance. The balance was recalibrated before the samples were weighed and the results reported in grams per square meter (gsm). For film samples, the reported results are the average of 3 measurements. For printed laminate samples, reported data are the result of a single measurement.

Oil test

The oil grades of the membranes and laminates were measured. Testing was performed according to the general teachings of AATCC Test Method 118-1997. The oil rating is the maximum number of oils that do not wet the material within a test exposure time of 30±2 seconds. The reported results are the average of 3 measurements.

SEM sample preparation method

Cross-sectional SEM samples were prepared by spraying the sample with liquid nitrogen and then cutting the sprayed sample with a diamond knife in a Leicaultracut UCT (available from Leica Microsystems, Weasley, Germany).

Fibril length measurement

The fibril length was measured using surface SEM images. The magnification is chosen so that multiple fibrils can be seen, including a clear view of the points where fibrils connect to nodes. Use the same magnification for each sample measured. Since these nodes and fibril structures are irregular, 15 different fibrils randomly distributed in each image were identified for measurement.

To accurately measure individual fibrils, the cursor was drawn so that they were perpendicular to the fibril at both ends where the fibril was connected to the node. Measure and record the distance between the cursor-drawn lines for each fibril. The results for each surface image of each sample were averaged. Reported values for fibril length represent the average of 15 sample measurements on SEM images.

Liquid resistance test (Suter, Suter) and water absorption

The liquid resistance test and water absorption were performed as follows. The laminates were tested for liquid repellency using a modified Suter test apparatus with water as a representative test liquid. Water is forced in an approximately _{4 1/4} ^inch (10.8 cm) diameter sample area sealed by 2 rubber gaskets in a clamped setup. The samples were tested by orienting the samples such that the adventitia surface of the samples was the surface that was pressed by water. The water pressure on the sample is increased to about 0.7 psi (6.94.81 KPa) by a pump connected to the reservoir, as indicated by a suitable gauge and adjusted by an in-line valve. The test sample is positioned at an angle and the water is recirculated to ensure that water, not air, is in contact with the lower surface of the sample. The surface opposite the outer membrane surface of the sample was observed for 3 minutes for any water being pressed through the sample. Liquid water seen on the surface is considered leaking water.

In the absence of visible liquid water on the surface of the sample within 3 minutes, a grade of pass (liquid repellency) is assigned. If a sample passes this test, it is considered to be "liquid-proof" for use. Samples with any visible leakage of liquid water (eg, in the form of leaks, pinhole leaks, etc.) were not considered liquid-proof and failed the test.

Samples were weighed before and after testing to determine water absorption. The difference in grams for a 10.8 cm diameter circular sample is converted to grams per square meter to provide the weight gain due to water absorption. The reported results are the average of 3 measurements.

Measurement of interfiber gaps

The interfiber gaps were measured using surface SEM images. The magnification was chosen so that at least 10 fiber crossings could be seen, including a clear view of the gaps where fibers overlap. For each gap, the interfiber distance (D) at intersection 30 as shown in Figure 52, measured in the radial direction, is accurate to the micron. This distance (D) is measured and averaged at at least ten intersections within the field of view. It should be noted that only two intersections 30 are shown in Figure 52 for illustration purposes. Also, for each gap, the distance (D') between the fibers at the intersection 30 in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the distance, measured in the weft direction, to the nearest micron. This distance D' is measured and averaged at at least ten intersections within the field of view. The mean gap distance in the latitudinal direction (D) and the mean gap distance in the meridional direction (D') are reported, with larger values reported first.

Water Extrusion Pressure (WEP)

Water Intrusion Pressure provides a method for testing water intrusion through membranes and/or fabrics. A test sample is sandwiched between a pair of test pieces. The lower piece has the ability to apply pressure to a portion of the sample using water. A piece of pH paper was placed on the non-pressurized side of the top of the sample between the test pieces as evidence of water ingress. The sample was then pressurized in small increments, waiting 10 seconds after each pressure change until the color change of the pH paper indicated the first occurrence of water ingress. The water pressure at the time of penetration or entry is recorded as the water extrusion pressure. Take test results from the center of the test sample to avoid false results that may be caused by damaged edges.

tear strength

The test is designed to determine the average force required to extend a single-rip tongue-type tear from a cut in a woven fabric. A Thwing-Albert Heavy Duty Elmendorf Tear Tester (MAI227) was used. After calibrating the device and selecting the correct pendulum weight, a flashing asterisk on the left side of the display will indicate that the device is ready for testing. The pendulum is raised to the starting position. The specimen is placed between the jaws and gripped using a pneumatic grip located on the lower right side of the apparatus. The air pressure is 414KPa-621KPa. The specimen is centered with the bottom edge carefully resting against the stop pin. The higher area of the specimen should face the pendulum to ensure shear action. Test until a complete tear is achieved. Digital readouts are recorded in Newtons. This is repeated until one set (1 warp and 1 weft) is complete. Reported results are averages of a set of measurements.

stiffness

Hand (stiffness) was measured using a ThwingAlbert softness tester (Handle-O-Meter) under the conditions of 1000g beam and 1/4" groove width. Cut out a 4" x 4" sample from the fabric. The sample was facing on the sample table.The sample is flattened so that the test direction is perpendicular to the groove to test the warp direction.Press the start/test button until a sound is heard, then release it.After hearing the second sound, Record the number shown on the digital display. The reading will not reset to zero, but will show the peak reading for each individual test. Invert the specimen to test again and record the reading. Then rotate the specimen 90 degrees to test the weft direction and record the reading. Finally , turn the sample over and test again, record the readings. Add the four numbers recorded (1 warp surface, 1 warp back, 1 weft surface, 1 weft back) to calculate the test weight in grams. overall stiffness of the sample. Results are reported for one sample.

Air permeability - Frazier number method

Air permeability was measured by clamping the test sample in a gasket flange fixture providing an approximately 6 square inch (2.75 inch diameter) circular area for airflow measurement. The upstream side of the sample holder is connected to a flow meter that interfaces with a source of dry compressed air. The downstream side of the sample holder is open to atmosphere.

Testing was accomplished by applying 0.5 inches of water pressure on the upstream side of the sample and recording the flow rate of air through an in-line flow meter (rotameter).

Samples were conditioned at 70°F (21.1°C) and 65% relative humidity for 4 hours prior to testing.

Results are reported as the Fraser number, which is the air flow rate of the sample in cubic feet per minute per square foot at 0.5 inches of water pressure.

Example

Example 1a

A fine powder of PTFE resin (Teflon 669X, available from EI duPont de Nemours, Inc., Wilmington, DE) was obtained. The resin was mixed with K was mixed at a ratio of 0.184 g/g (based on powder weight). The lubricated powder was compressed into cylinders and allowed to stand at room temperature for 18 hours. The sheets were then ram extruded at a reduction ratio of 169/1 to make ribbons approximately 0.64 mm thick. The extruded ribbons were then compressed to a thickness of 0.25 mm. The compressed web is then stretched in the longitudinal direction between two sets of rollers. The speed ratio between the second set of rollers and the first set of rollers (ie, the draw ratio) was 1.4:1, and the draw rate was 30%/sec. The stretched ribbons were then restrained and dried at 200°C. The dried ribbon is then stretched between two sets of heated rollers in a heating chamber at a temperature of 300°C at a stretching rate of 0.2%/sec to a ratio of 1.02:1 and then stretched at a rate of 46%/sec. rate expansion to an additional expansion ratio of 1.75:1 and then to an additional expansion ratio of 1.02:1 at a stretch rate of 0.5%/sec. This process produced ribbons with a thickness of 0.24mm.

The ribbon was then cut to produce a 1.78 mm wide, 0.24 mm thick section with a weight per unit length of 3494 dtex. The slit ribbon was then expanded on a heated plate set at 390°C with a stretch ratio of 6.25:1 and a stretch rate of 65%/sec. It was then further expanded through a heated plate set at 390° C. at a stretch ratio of 2.50:1 and a stretch rate of 66%/sec. It was then further expanded through a heated plate set at 390° C. at a stretch ratio of 1.30:1 and a stretch rate of 23%/sec. This was then passed through a heated plate set at 390° C. in 1.6 seconds at a draw ratio of 1.00:1, resulting in amorphously locked expanded PTFE fibers.

The final amorphously locked ePTFE fiber measured a weight per unit length of 172 dtex, had a rectangular cross-section and had the following properties: Width = 1.0 mm, Height = 0.0356 mm, Density = 0.48 g/cm3, Tenacity at Break 3.51 N, tenacity 2.04 cN/dtex, and fibril length = 53.7 microns.

Figure 1 shows a scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of one side of the resulting fiber taken at 1000X magnification. Figure 2 is a scanning electron micrograph taken at 1000X magnification of the top surface of the fiber.

The fibers are then used to make woven fabrics. The weave pattern was 2/2 twill using a pick count of 88 x 88 threads per inch. The woven fabric has the following properties: thickness = 0.20mm, MVTR = 27860 g/m2/24 hours, water absorption = 13gsm, hand = 71g, tear strength = 75.6N, WEP = 5.38kPa, air permeability =0.81 cfm, and oil grade =<1. Figure 3 shows a scanning electron micrograph of the surface of the fabric taken at 150X magnification. Figure 4 shows a scanning electron micrograph taken at 150X magnification of a side view view of the fabric. The length and width of the gap between warp and weft fibers are less than 0.01mm. The weight of the fabric was 135 g/m2.

The fibers (172 dtex) were removed from the woven fabric and dimensionally measured in their compliant state after weaving to show the compliance of the fibers. It is measured that the folded width of the fiber after weaving is 0.30 mm, the folded height after weaving is 0.0699 mm, the aspect ratio after weaving is 4.3, and the density after weaving is 0.82 g/cubic centimeter. The ratio of the width before weaving to the folded width after weaving is 3.3:1.

Example 1b

A fluorinated acrylate coating was applied to the woven fabric of Example 1a to render it oleophobic while retaining the porosity and microporous structure.

The obtained oleophobic woven fabric has the following properties: thickness=0.20mm, MVTR=21206 grams/square meter/24 hours, water absorption=13gsm, hand feeling (hand)=131g, tear strength=63.8N, WEP=6.11KPa, air Permeability = 1.72 cfm, and Oil Grade = 6. Figure 5 shows a scanning electron micrograph of the surface of the woven fabric taken at 150X magnification. Figure 6 shows a scanning electron micrograph taken at 150X magnification of a side view view of the fabric. The length and width of the gaps between fibers are less than 0.01 mm. The weight of the fabric was 158 g/m2.

Example 1c

An amorphous locked ePTFE membrane with the following properties was obtained: thickness = 0.04 mm, density = 0.47 g/cc, matrix tensile strength in the strongest direction = 105.8 MPa, matrix tensile in the direction perpendicular to the strongest direction Strength = 49.9MPa, air permeability (Gurley, Gurley) = 16.2s, MVTR = 64168 g/m2/24 hours.

The woven fabric of Example 1b was laminated to the ePTFE membrane in the following manner. The fabric and ePTFE membrane were bonded together by applying a dotted pattern of melted polyurethane adhesive on the membrane. With the polyurethane adhesive spot melted, the fabric was placed on top of the adhesive side of the membrane. The structure (article) is allowed to cool spontaneously.

The resulting article had the following properties: Thickness = 0.22 mm, MVTR = 12845 g/m2/24 hrs, Water Absorption = 12 gsm, Hand = 196 g, Tear Strength = 46.19 N, and Oil Grade = 6. Figure 7 shows a scanning electron micrograph of the top surface of the article taken at 150X magnification. Figure 8 shows a side view of the article taken at 100X magnification. Figure 9 shows a side view of the article taken at 1000X magnification. The length and width of the gaps between fibers are less than 0.01 mm. The weight of the fabric was 192 g/m2.

Example 1d

The woven fabric of Example 1b was laminated to a plain weave nylon fabric (weight 18 g/m2, 150 ends per inch, and 109 picks per inch, 17 dtex (5 filaments)) in the following manner. Fabrics and textiles are held together by applying a dotted pattern of melted polyurethane adhesive to the fabric. With the polyurethane adhesive spot melted, place the textile on top of the adhesive side of the fabric. The structure is allowed to cool spontaneously.

The resulting article has the following properties: thickness = 0.25mm, MVTR = 14407 g/m2/24 hours, water absorption = 54gsm, hand = 288g, tear strength = 43.18N, WEP = 5.72KPa, air permeability = 0.86 cfm, and oil grade=6. Figure 10 shows a scanning electron micrograph taken at 150X magnification of the top surface of the article. Figure 11 shows a scanning electron micrograph taken at 100X magnification of a side view view of an article. Figure 12 shows a scanning electron micrograph taken at 500X magnification of a side view view of the article. The length and width of the gaps between fibers are less than 0.01 mm. The weight of the fabric was 192 g/m2.

Example 1e

Laminates were constructed in the following manner. The film and the textile described in Example 1a were bonded together by applying a dotted pattern of melted polyurethane adhesive on the film. With the polyurethane adhesive spot melted, place the textile on top of the adhesive side of the fabric. The structure is allowed to cool spontaneously. The fabric is then bonded to the membrane by applying a dotted pattern of melted polyurethane adhesive on the membrane. With the polyurethane adhesive dotted, the fabric was placed on top of the membrane. The structure is allowed to cool spontaneously.

The resulting article had the following properties: Thickness = 0.26 mm, MVTR = 8708 g/m2/24 hrs, Water Absorption = 11 gsm, Hand = 526 g, Tear Strength = 37.78 N, and Oil Grade = 6. Figure 13 shows a scanning electron micrograph taken at 150X magnification of the top surface of the article. Figure 14 shows a scanning electron micrograph taken at 100X magnification of a side view view of the article. Figure 15 shows a scanning electron micrograph taken at 300X magnification of a side view view of the article. The length and width of the gaps between fibers are less than 0.01mm. The weight of the fabric was 216 g/m2.

Example 2a

Woven fabrics were constructed in the same manner as described in Example la, except that the weave pattern was a plain weave. The woven fabric has the following properties: Thickness = 0.15 mm, MVTR = 21336 g/m2/24 hours, Water Absorption = 4 gsm, Hand = 83 g, Oil Grade = <1, WEP = 3.13 KPa, Air Permeability = 0.44cfm, tear strength = 36.3N. Figure 16 shows a scanning electron micrograph taken at 150X magnification of the top surface of the fabric. Figure 17 shows a scanning electron micrograph taken at 250X magnification of a side view view of an article. The length and width of the gaps between fibers are about 0.01 mm and 0.01 mm, respectively. The weight of the fabric was 142 g/m2.

The fibers (172 dtex) were removed from the woven fabric and dimensionally measured in their compliant state after weaving to show the compliance of the fibers. It is measured that the folded width of the fiber after weaving is 0.25 mm, the folded height after weaving is 0.0736 mm, the aspect ratio after weaving is 3.4, and the density after weaving is 0.94 g/cubic centimeter. The ratio of the width before weaving to the folded width after weaving is 4.0:1.

Example 2b

The woven fabric of Example 2a was rendered oleophobic in the same manner as described in Example 1b.

The oleophobic woven fabric has the following properties: thickness=0.16mm, MVTR=13265 grams/square meter/24 hours, water absorption=7gsm, hand=141g, tear strength=30.3N, WEP=4.01KPa, air Permeability = 0.49 cfm, and Oil Grade = 6. Figure 18 shows a scanning electron micrograph taken at 150X magnification of the top surface of the fabric. Figure 19 shows a scanning electron micrograph taken at 250X magnification of a side view view of the fabric. The length and width of the gaps between fibers are about 0.01 mm and 0.02 mm, respectively. The weight of the fabric was 158 g/m2.

Example 2c

The oleophobic laminate was constructed in the following manner. The membrane and textile are bonded together by applying a dotted pattern of melted polyurethane adhesive on the membrane. With the polyurethane adhesive spot melted, place the fabric on top of the adhesive side of the fabric. The structure is allowed to cool spontaneously. The fabric is then bonded to the membrane by applying a dotted pattern of melted polyurethane adhesive on the membrane. With the polyurethane adhesive dotted, place the fabric on top of the membrane. The structure is allowed to cool spontaneously.

The resulting article had the following properties: Thickness = 0.24 mm, MVTR = 8274 g/m2/24hr, Water Absorption = 10 gsm, Hand = 465 g, Tear Strength = 20.59 N, and Oil Grade = 6. Figure 20 shows a scanning electron micrograph taken at 150X magnification of the top surface of the article. Figure 21 shows a scanning electron micrograph taken at 250X magnification of a side view view of an article. The length and width of the gaps between fibers are about 0.01 mm and 0.03 mm, respectively. The weight of the fabric was 214 g/m2.

Example 3a

Ribbons were fabricated in the same manner as described in Example 1a. The ribbon was then slit to produce cross-sections 1.14 mm wide, 0.24 mm thick, and had a weight per unit length of 2184 dtex. The slit ribbon was then expanded over a heated plate set at 390°C at a stretch ratio of 6.00:1 and a stretch rate of 70%/sec. Expansion was then performed through a heated plate set at 390° C. at a stretch ratio of 2.50:1 and a stretch rate of 74%/sec. It was then further expanded through a heated plate set at 390° C. at a stretch ratio of 1.30:1 and a stretch rate of 26%/sec. This was then passed through a heated plate set at 390° C. in 1.4 seconds at a draw ratio of 1.00:1, resulting in amorphously locked expanded PTFE fibers.

Amorphously locked ePTFE fibers measured a weight per unit length of 112 dtex, had a rectangular cross section and had the following properties: width = 0.7 mm, height = 0.0356 mm, density = 0.45 g/cm3, breaking strength 2.14 N, Tenacity 1.92 cN/dtex, and fibril length = 57.2 microns.

Figure 22 shows a scanning electron micrograph of fibers taken at 1000X magnification. Figure 23 shows a scanning electron micrograph taken at 1000X magnification of a side view view of the fiber.

The fibers are used to make woven fabrics. The weave pattern was 2/2 twill with a thread count of 100 x 100 yarns per inch. The woven fabric has the following properties: Thickness = 0.15 mm, MVTR = 32012 g/m2/24 hours, Water Absorption = 21 gsm, Hand = 47 g, Oil Grade = <1, WEP = 2.15 KPa, Air Permeability = 1.17cfm, tear strength = 57.8N. Figure 24 shows a scanning electron micrograph of a woven fabric taken at 15Ox magnification. Figure 25 shows a scanning electron micrograph taken at 200X magnification of a side view view of the fabric. The length and width of the gaps between fibers are less than 0.01mm. The weight of the fabric was 102 g/m2.

The fiber (112dtex) was removed from the woven fabric and dimensionally measured in its compliant state after weaving to show the compliance of the fiber. The folded width of the fiber after weaving is 0.25 mm, the folded height after weaving is 0.0559 mm, the aspect ratio after weaving is 4.5, and the density after weaving is 0.80 g/cubic centimeter. The ratio of the width before weaving to the folded width after weaving is 2.8:1.

Example 3b

The woven fabric of Example 3a was rendered oleophobic in the same manner as described in Example 1b. The product has the following properties: thickness=0.15mm, MVTR=20526 grams/square meter/24 hours, water absorption=15gsm, hand feeling (hand)=86g, tear strength=48.2N, WEP=5.45KPa, air permeability= 1.85 cfm, and oil grade = 6. Figure 26 shows a scanning electron micrograph of the fabric taken at 15Ox magnification. Figure 27 shows a scanning electron micrograph taken at 200X magnification of a side view view of the fabric. The length and width of the gaps between fibers are less than 0.01mm. The weight of the fabric is 120 g/m2.

Example 4

A fine powder of PTFE resin (Teflon 669X, available from EI duPont de Nemours, Inc., Wilmington, DE) was obtained. The resin was mixed with K was mixed at a ratio of 0.184 g/g (based on powder weight). The lubricated powder was compressed into a cylinder and placed in an oven at 49 °C for 18 hours. The sheet was then extruded through a ram at a reduction ratio of 169/1 to produce a ribbon approximately 0.64mm thick. The extruded ribbons were then compressed to a thickness of 0.25 mm. The compressed web is then stretched in the longitudinal direction between two sets of rollers. The speed ratio between the second set of rollers and the first set of rollers (ie, stretching ratio) was 1.4:1, and the stretching rate was 30%/sec. The stretched ribbons were then restrained and dried at 200°C. The dried ribbon is then stretched between two sets of heated rollers in a heated chamber at a temperature of 300°C at a stretching rate of 0.2%/sec to a ratio of 1.02:1 and then stretched at a rate of 46%/sec. The elongation rate expands to an additional expansion ratio of 1.75:1 and then expands to an additional expansion ratio of 1.02:1 at a stretching rate of 0.5%/sec. This process produced ribbons with a thickness of 0.24 mm.

The ribbon was then slit to produce cross-sections 1.14 mm wide, 0.24 mm thick, and had a weight per unit length of 2373 dtex. The slit ribbon was then expanded over a heated plate set at 390°C at a draw ratio of 6.00:1 and a draw rate of 69%/sec. It was then further expanded through a heated plate set at 390° C. at a stretch ratio of 2.20:1 and a stretch rate of 32%/sec. Further expansion was performed through a heated plate set at 390°C at a draw ratio of 1.40:1 and a draw rate of 19%/sec. Further expansion was performed through a heated plate set at 390° C. at a stretch ratio of 1.20:1 and a stretch rate of 12%/sec. This was then passed through a heated plate set at 390° C. in 2.1 seconds at a draw ratio of 1.00:1, resulting in amorphously locked expanded PTFE fibers.

The final amorphously locked ePTFE fiber measured a weight per unit length of 107 dtex, had a rectangular cross-section and had the following properties: Width = 0.45 mm, Height = 0.0279 mm, Density = 0.85 g/cm3, Break Strength 3.20 N, tenacity 3.01 cN/dtex, and fibril length = 16.1 microns.

Figure 28 shows a scanning electron micrograph taken at 1000X magnification of the top surface of the fiber. Figure 29 is a scanning electron micrograph taken at 1000X magnification of a side view view of a fiber.

The fibers are used to make woven fabrics. The weave pattern was 2/2 twill and the thread count was 100 x 100 yarns per inch. The woven fabric has the following properties: Thickness = 0.13 mm, MVTR = 28497 g/m2/24 hours, Water Absorption = 5 gsm, Hand = 72 g, Oil Grade = <1, WEP = 1.96 KPa, Air Permeability = 2.4cfm, tear strength = 71.2N. Figure 30 shows a scanning electron micrograph taken at 150X magnification of the top surface of the fabric. Figure 31 shows a side view of the fabric taken at 15Ox magnification. The length and width of the gaps between fibers are less than 0.01 mm. The weight of the fabric was 93 g/m2.

Fibers (107dtex) were removed from the woven fabric and dimensionally measured in their compliant state after weaving to show the compliance of the fibers. The folded width of the fiber after weaving is 0.25 mm, the folded height after weaving is 0.0356 mm, the aspect ratio after weaving is 7.0, and the density after weaving is 1.20 g/cubic centimeter. The ratio of the width before weaving to the folded width after weaving is 1.8:1.

Example 5

A ribbon was produced in the same manner as in Example 1a. The ribbon was then slit to produce a cross-section 4.57mm wide by 0.236mm thick and having a weight per unit length of 7937dtex. The slit ribbon was then expanded over a heated plate set at 390° C. at a stretch ratio of 6.00:1 and a stretch rate of 70%/sec. This was followed by another expansion through a heated plate set at 390°C at a stretch ratio of 2.50:1 and a stretch rate of 74%/sec. Further expansion was performed through a heated plate set at 390° C. at a stretch ratio of 1.30:1 and a stretch rate of 26%/sec. This was then passed through a heated plate set at 390° C. in 1.4 seconds at a draw ratio of 1.00:1, resulting in amorphously locked expanded PTFE fibers.

Amorphously locked (amorphouslylocked) ePTFE fibers have a measured weight per unit length of 452 dtex, have a rectangular cross-section and have the following properties: width = 2.2 mm, height = 0.0406 mm, density = 0.51 g/cm3, breaking strength 11.48 N, Tenacity 2.55 cN/dtex, and fibril length = 60 microns. Figure 36 shows a scanning electron micrograph of the fiber surface taken at 1000X magnification. Figure 37 shows a scanning electron micrograph taken at 1000X magnification of a side view view of a fiber.

The weave pattern was a plain weave with a pick count of 50 x 50 yarns/inch (19.7 x 19.7 yarns/cm). The ratio of fiber width before weaving to the space allocated to individual fibers within the calculated weaving pattern was 4.3:1. The woven fabric has the following properties: Thickness = 0.24mm, MVTR = 14798 g/m2/24 hours, water absorption = 15gsm, hand = 281g, oil grade = <1, WEP = 1.86KPa, air permeability = 2.1 cfm. Figure 38 shows a scanning electron micrograph of a woven fabric taken at 15Ox magnification. Figure 39 shows a scanning electron micrograph taken at 15Ox magnification of a side view view of the fabric. The length and width of the gaps between fibers are about 0.04 mm and 0.01 mm, respectively. Figures 40 and 41 show scanning electron micrographs taken at 120X magnification of the top surface of the fabric, depicting gap width measurements in the horizontal direction and gap width measurements in the vertical direction, respectively. The weight of the fabric was 211 g/m2.

The fiber (452dtex) was removed from the woven fabric and dimensionally measured in its compliant state after weaving to show the compliance of the fiber. The folded width of the fiber after weaving is 0.40 mm, the folded height after weaving is 0.1524 mm, the aspect ratio after weaving is 2.6, and the density after weaving is 0.74 g/cubic centimeter. The ratio of the width before weaving to the folded width after weaving is 5.5:1.

Example 6

A woven fabric was constructed in the same manner as described in Example 5, except that the plain weave pattern had a pick count of 40 x 40 yarns/inch (15.7 x 15.7 yarns/cm). The woven fabric has the following properties: Thickness = 0.25 mm, MVTR = 27846 g/m2/24 hours, Water Absorption = 7 gsm, Hand = 71 g, Oil Grade = <1, WEP = 1.69 KPa, Air Permeability = 3.87 cfm. Figure 42 shows a scanning electron micrograph of the top surface of the fabric taken at 150X magnification. Figure 43 shows a scanning electron micrograph taken at 150X magnification of a side view view of the fabric. Figures 44 and 45 show scanning electron micrographs taken at 300X and 400X from the side view of the fabric, respectively. Figure 45 clearly shows the compliance of the fibers to the weave spacing, the fibers folding upon themselves.

The length and width of the gaps between fibers are about 0.08 mm and 0.02 mm, respectively. The weight of the fabric was 157 g/m2.

The fiber (452dtex) was removed from the woven fabric and dimensionally measured in its compliant state after weaving to show the compliance of the fiber. The folded width of the fiber after weaving is 0.50 mm, the folded height after weaving is 0.1219 mm, the aspect ratio after weaving is 4.1, and the density after weaving is 0.74 g/cubic centimeter. The ratio of the width before weaving to the folded width after weaving is 4.4:1.

Comparative example 1

ePTFE fibers manufactured by W.L. Gore & Associates, Inc., Elkton, MD (model number V111776, W.L. Gore & Associates, Inc., Elkton, MD) were obtained. The ePTFE fiber has a measured weight per unit length of 111 dtex, has a rectangular cross-section and has the following properties: width = 0.5mm, height = 0.0114mm, density = 1.94 g/cm3, breaking strength = 3.96N, toughness = 3.58cN/dtex, and Fibril Length = Undetermined (no visible nodes to define fibril endpoints). Figure 32 shows a scanning electron micrograph taken at 1000X magnification of the top surface of the fiber. Figure 33 shows a scanning electron micrograph taken at 1000X magnification of a side view view of the fiber.

In order to weave this fiber smoothly, it was twisted under the condition of 315 turns/meter (turns/meter). The twisted fibers were then woven into fabric using a 2/2 twill pattern with a thread count of 100 x 100 threads/inch.

The woven fabric had the following properties: Thickness = 0.12 mm, MVTR = 36756 grams/square meter/24 hours, Water Absorption = 4 gsm, Hand = 102 g, WEP = 0.39 kPa, Air Permeability = 367 cfm, and Oil Grade = <1. Figure 34 shows a scanning electron micrograph of the top surface of the fabric taken at 150X magnification. Figure 35 shows a scanning electron micrograph taken at 150X magnification of a side view view of the fabric. The length and width of the gaps between fibers are about 0.09 mm and 0.12 mm, respectively. The weight of the fabric was 94 g/m2.

Comparative example 2

Commercially available non-microporous ePTFE fibers were obtained from W.L. Gore & Associates, Inc. (Model V112961, W.L. Gore & Associates, Inc., Elkton, MD). ePTFE fibers have a measured weight per unit length of 457 dtex, have a rectangular cross-section and have the following properties: width = 0.6 mm, height = 0.0419 mm, density = 1.82 g/cm3, breaking strength = 18.33 N, toughness = 4.03 cN/dtex, and Fibril Length = Undetermined (no visible nodes to define fibril endpoints). Figure 46 shows a scanning electron micrograph taken at 1000X magnification of the top surface of the fiber. Figure 47 shows a scanning electron micrograph taken at 1000X magnification of a side view view of a fiber.

In order to weave this ePTFE fiber smoothly, it is twisted under the condition of 118 turns/m. The twisted fibers were then woven into fabric using a plain weave pattern with a thread count of 50 x 50 threads per inch.

The woven fabric has the following properties: Thickness = 0.21 mm, MVTR = 11659 g/m2/24 hours, Water Absorption = 10 gsm, Hand = 380 g, WEP = 0.49 kPa, Air Permeability = 70 cfm, and Oil Grade = <1. Figure 48 shows a scanning electron micrograph of the top surface of the fabric taken at 150X magnification. Figure 49 shows a scanning electron micrograph taken at 150X magnification of a side view view of the fabric. The length and width of the gaps between fibers are about 0.11 mm and 0.08 mm, respectively. The weight of the fabric was 201 g/m2.

Comparative example 3

Commercially available ePTFE fibers were obtained from W.L. Gore & Associates, Inc. (Model V112961, W.L. Gore & Associates, Inc., Elkton, MD). ePTFE fibers have a measured weight per unit length of 457 dtex, have a rectangular cross-section and have the following properties: width = 0.6 mm, height = 0.0419 mm, density = 1.82 g/cm3, breaking strength = 18.33 N, toughness = 4.03 cN/dtex, and Fibril Length = Undetermined (no visible nodes to define fibril endpoints). Figure 46 shows a scanning electron micrograph taken at 1000X magnification of the top surface of the fiber. Figure 47 shows a side view of a fiber taken at 1000X magnification.

In order to weave this ePTFE fiber smoothly, it was twisted under the condition of 138 turns/m. The twisted fibers were then woven into fabric using a plain weave pattern with a thread count of 64 x 64 threads per inch.

The woven fabric had the following properties: Thickness = 0.24 mm, MVTR = 7840 grams/square meter/24 hours, Water Absorption = 9 gsm, Hand = 698 g, WEP = 1.12 kPa, Air Permeability = 26 cfm, and Oil Grade = <1. Figure 50 shows a scanning electron micrograph taken at 150X magnification of the top surface of the fabric. Figure 51 shows a side view of the fabric taken at 150X magnification. The length and width of the gaps between fibers are about 0.07 mm and 0.02 mm, respectively. The weight of the fabric was 261 g/m2.

The invention of the present application has been described above in general and for specific embodiments. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims (106)

1. a braided fabric, comprising:

Multiple warp fiber and weft fiber, described warp fiber and described weft fiber each self-contained expanded polytetrafluoroethyl,ne (ePTFE) fiber, described ePTFE fiber has essentially rectangular cross-sectional configuration,

Wherein, before the braiding of described ePTFE fiber width exceed based on described braided fabric through or latitude prop up and distribute to the width of described ePTFE fiber.

2. braided fabric as claimed in claim 1, it is characterised in that described ePTFE fiber is monofilament fiber.

3. braided fabric as claimed in claim 1, it is characterised in that the density of described ePTFE fiber is lower than about 1.2 grams/cc.

4. braided fabric as claimed in claim 1, it is characterised in that before the braiding of described ePTFE fiber, density is lower than about 0.85 gram/cc.

5. braided fabric as claimed in claim 1, it is characterised in that described ePTFE fiber has the node and fibril that limit the path running through described fiber, and

Wherein said fibriilar length is about 5 microns of-Yue 120 microns.

6. braided fabric as claimed in claim 1, it is characterised in that the air permeability of described braided fabric is less than approximately 5cfm.

7. braided fabric as claimed in claim 5, it is characterised in that the moisture vapor transmission rate of described braided fabric was more than about 10,000 grams/m/24 hours.

8. braided fabric as claimed in claim 1, it is characterised in that the water absorption rate of described braided fabric is less than approximately 30gsm.

9. braided fabric as claimed in claim 1, it is characterised in that the aspect ratio of described ePTFE fiber is more than about 15.

10. braided fabric as claimed in claim 1, it is characterised in that the unit weight of described ePTFE fiber is lower than about 500dtex.

11. braided fabric as claimed in claim 1, it is characterised in that the mean rigidity of described braided fabric is less than approximately 300g.

12. braided fabric as claimed in claim 1, it is characterised in that the weight per unit area of described braided fabric is less than approximately 300 grams/m.

13. braided fabric as claimed in claim 1, it is characterised in that the tearing strength of described braided fabric is at least 30N.

14. braided fabric as claimed in claim 1, it is characterised in that the average water entry pressure of described braided fabric is more than about 1kPa.

15. braided fabric as claimed in claim 1, it is characterised in that described warp fiber and described weft fiber have fluorinated acrylic ester coating so that described braided fabric has oleophobic property.

16. braided fabric as claimed in claim 15, it is characterised in that be also included in the side contrary with described fluorinated acrylic ester coating and be fixed on described warp fiber and the functional membrane of described weft fiber.

17. braided fabric as claimed in claim 16, it is characterised in that also comprise the yarn fabric being fixed on described functional membrane.

18. braided fabric as claimed in claim 15, it is characterised in that be also included in the side contrary with described fluorinated acrylic ester coating and be fixed on the yarn fabric of described warp fiber and weft fiber.

19. braided fabric as claimed in claim 1, it is characterised in that also comprise at least one in the yarn fabric and functional membrane being fixed on described braided fabric.

20. braided fabric as claimed in claim 1, it is characterised in that described braided fabric is the form of clothing, glove or footwear.

21. a braided fabric, comprising:

Multiple warp fiber and weft fiber, described warp fiber and described weft fiber each self-contained expanded polytetrafluoroethyl,ne (ePTFE) fiber, the density of described ePTFE fiber is lower than about 1.2 grams/cc, and has essentially rectangular cross-sectional configuration.

22. braided fabric as claimed in claim 21, it is characterised in that described ePTFE fiber is monofilament fiber.

23. braided fabric as claimed in claim 21, it is characterised in that the water entry pressure of described braided fabric is more than about 1kPa.

24. braided fabric as claimed in claim 21, it is characterised in that the moisture vapor transmission rate of described braided fabric was more than about 10,000 grams/m/24 hours.

25. braided fabric as claimed in claim 21, it is characterised in that the water absorption rate of described fabric is less than approximately 30gsm.

26. braided fabric as claimed in claim 21, it is characterised in that the weight per unit area of described fabric is less than approximately 300 grams/m.

27. braided fabric as claimed in claim 21, it is characterised in that aspect ratio at least one in described warp fiber and weft fiber is more than about 15.

28. braided fabric as claimed in claim 21, it is characterised in that the air permeability of described braided fabric is less than approximately 5cfm.

29. braided fabric as claimed in claim 21, it is characterised in that before the braiding of described warp fiber and described weft fiber, thickness is less than approximately 100 microns, and the front width of braiding is less than approximately 4.0mm.

30. braided fabric as claimed in claim 29, it is characterised in that the described width of described warp fiber and described weft fiber exceed based on described braided fabric through or latitude prop up and distribute to the width of described expanded polytetrafluoroethyl,ne fiber.

31. braided fabric as claimed in claim 21, it is characterised in that before the braiding of described expanded polytetrafluoroethyl,ne fiber, density is lower than about 0.85 gram/cc.

32. braided fabric as claimed in claim 21, it is characterised in that the mean rigidity of described braided fabric is less than approximately 300g.

33. braided fabric as claimed in claim 21, it is characterised in that the tearing strength of described braided fabric is at least 30N.

34. braided fabric as claimed in claim 21, it is characterised in that described warp fiber and described weft fiber have fluorinated acrylic ester coating so that described braided fabric has oleophobic property.

35. braided fabric as claimed in claim 34, it is characterised in that be also included in and be fixed on described warp fiber and the functional membrane of described weft fiber with described fluorinated acrylic ester coating opposite side.

36. braided fabric as claimed in claim 35, it is characterised in that also comprise the yarn fabric being fixed on described functional membrane.

37. braided fabric as claimed in claim 34, it is characterised in that be also included in the side contrary with described fluorinated acrylic ester coating and be fixed on the yarn fabric of described warp fiber and weft fiber.

38. braided fabric as claimed in claim 21, it is characterised in that also comprise at least one in the yarn fabric and functional membrane being fixed on described braided fabric.

39. braided fabric as claimed in claim 21, it is characterised in that described ePTFE fiber has the node and fibrillar structure that limit the path running through described fiber, and described fibriilar length is about 5 microns of-Yue 120 microns.

40. braided fabric as claimed in claim 21, it is characterised in that described braided fabric is the form of clothing, glove or footwear.

41. a braided fabric, comprising:

Warp fiber and weft fiber, it comprises expanded polytetrafluoroethyl,ne (ePTFE) fiber with essentially rectangular cross-sectional configuration,

Wherein, the water entry pressure of described braided fabric more than about 1kPa, and

Wherein, the moisture vapor transmission rate of described braided fabric was more than about 10,000 grams/m/24 hours.

42. braided fabric as claimed in claim 41, it is characterised in that described ePTFE fiber is monofilament fiber.

43. braided fabric as claimed in claim 41, it is characterised in that before the braiding of described expanded polytetrafluoroethyl,ne fiber, density is lower than about 0.85 gram/cc.

44. braided fabric as claimed in claim 41, it is characterised in that before the braiding of described warp fiber and described weft fiber, thickness is less than approximately 100 microns, and the front width of braiding is less than approximately 4.0mm.

45. braided fabric as claimed in claim 44, it is characterised in that the described width of described expanded polytetrafluoroethyl,ne fiber exceed in described braided fabric based on described braided fabric through or latitude prop up and distribute to the width of described expanded polytetrafluoroethyl,ne fiber.

46. braided fabric as claimed in claim 41, it is characterised in that described expanded polytetrafluoroethyl,ne fiber is compliance, thus in knitting structure, described expanded polytetrafluoroethyl,ne fiber is folding on self.

47. braided fabric as claimed in claim 41, it is characterised in that the mean rigidity of described braided fabric is less than approximately 300g.

48. braided fabric as claimed in claim 41, it is characterised in that the air permeability of described braided fabric is less than approximately 5cfm.

49. braided fabric as claimed in claim 41, it is characterised in that the tearing strength of described braided fabric is at least 30N.

50. braided fabric as claimed in claim 41, it is characterised in that the average water entry pressure of described braided fabric is more than about 2kPa.

51. braided fabric as claimed in claim 41, it is characterised in that the weight per unit area of described fabric is less than approximately 300 grams/m.

52. braided fabric as claimed in claim 41, it is characterised in that described warp fiber and described weft fiber have fluorinated acrylic ester coating.

53. braided fabric as claimed in claim 52, it is characterised in that be also included in the side contrary with described fluorinated acrylic ester coating and be fixed on described warp fiber and the functional membrane of described weft fiber.

54. braided fabric as claimed in claim 53, it is characterised in that also comprise the yarn fabric being fixed on described functional membrane.

55. braided fabric as claimed in claim 52, it is characterised in that be also included in the side contrary with described fluorinated acrylic ester coating and be fixed on described warp fiber and the yarn fabric of described weft fiber.

56. braided fabric as claimed in claim 41, it is characterised in that also comprise at least one in the yarn fabric and functional membrane being fixed on described braided fabric.

57. braided fabric as claimed in claim 41, it is characterized in that, described expanded polytetrafluoroethyl,ne (ePTFE) fiber has the node and fibrillar structure that limit the path running through described fiber, and described fibriilar length is about 5 microns of-Yue 120 microns.

58. braided fabric as claimed in claim 57, it is characterised in that described ePTFE fiber is monofilament fiber.

59. braided fabric as claimed in claim 41, it is characterised in that described braided fabric is the form of clothing, glove or footwear.

60. a braided fabric, comprising:

Warp-wise fluorine-contained polymerisate fibre and broadwise fluorine-contained polymerisate fibre, it has following length and width: described warp-wise fluorine-contained polymerisate fibre and at least one structure in the folded lengthwise along described fiber in described broadwise fluorine-contained polymerisate fibre.

61. braided fabric as claimed in claim 60, it is characterised in that the moisture vapor transmission rate of described braided fabric was more than about 10,000 grams/m/24 hours, and water entry pressure is more than about 1kPa.

62. braided fabric as claimed in claim 60, it is characterised in that the unit weight of described fluorine-contained polymerisate fibre is lower than about 500dtex.

63. braided fabric as claimed in claim 60, it is characterised in that the aspect ratio of described fluorine-contained polymerisate fibre is more than about 15.

64. braided fabric as claimed in claim 60, it is characterised in that described fluorine-contained polymerisate fibre is compliance, thus in knitting structure, described fluorine-contained polymerisate fibre is folding on himself.

65. braided fabric as claimed in claim 60, it is characterised in that described fluorine-contained polymerisate fibre is the monofilament fiber with porous microstructure.

66. braided fabric as claimed in claim 60, it is characterised in that described fluorine-contained polymerisate fibre has the node and fibril that limit the path running through described fiber, and

Wherein said fibriilar length is about 5 microns of-Yue 120 microns.

67. braided fabric as claimed in claim 60, it is characterised in that described fluorine-contained polymerisate fibre is expanded polytetrafluoroethyl,ne (ePTFE) fiber.

68. the braided fabric as described in claim 67, it is characterised in that the density of described ePTFE fiber is lower than about 1.2 grams/cc.

69. the braided fabric as described in claim 67, it is characterised in that described ePTFE fiber is monofilament fiber.

70. the braided fabric as described in claim 67, it is characterised in that before the braiding of described ePTFE fiber, density is lower than about 0.85 gram/cc.

71. the braided fabric as described in claim 67, it is characterised in that the described width of described ePTFE fiber exceed in described braided fabric based on described braided fabric through or latitude prop up and distribute to the width of described ePTFE fiber.

72. the braided fabric as described in claim 67, it is characterised in that before the braiding of described ePTFE fiber, width is less than approximately 4.0mm, and the front thickness of braiding is less than approximately 100 microns.

73. the braided fabric as described in claim 67, it is characterised in that the water absorption rate of described braided fabric is less than approximately 30gsm.

74. the braided fabric as described in claim 67, it is characterised in that the aspect ratio of described ePTFE fiber is more than about 15.

75. the braided fabric as described in claim 67, it is characterised in that the mean rigidity of described braided fabric is less than approximately 300g.

76. the braided fabric as described in claim 67, it is characterised in that the air permeability of described braided fabric is less than approximately 5cfm.

77. the braided fabric as described in claim 67, it is characterised in that the weight per unit area of described braided fabric is less than approximately 300 grams/m.

78. the braided fabric as described in claim 67, it is characterised in that described warp fiber and described weft fiber have fluorinated acrylic ester coating.

79. the braided fabric as described in claim 78, it is characterised in that be also included in the side contrary with described fluorinated acrylic ester coating and be fixed on described warp fiber and the functional membrane of described weft fiber.

80. the braided fabric as described in claim 79, it is characterised in that also comprise the yarn fabric being fixed on described functional membrane.

81. the braided fabric as described in claim 78, it is characterised in that be also included in the side contrary with described fluorinated acrylic ester coating and be fixed on the yarn fabric of described warp fiber and weft fiber.

82. the braided fabric as described in claim 67, it is characterised in that also comprise at least one in the yarn fabric and functional membrane being fixed on described braided fabric.

83. the braided fabric as described in claim 67, it is characterised in that the fracture strength of described ePTFE fiber is at least about 1.5N.

84. the braided fabric as described in claim 67, it is characterised in that described fabric is the form of clothing, glove or footwear.

85. a braided fabric, it comprises warp-wise fluorine-contained polymerisate fibre and broadwise fluorine-contained polymerisate fibre, and described fiber has the node and fibrillar structure that limit the path running through described fiber, and described fluorine-contained polymerisate fibre is micropore,

Wherein, the air permeability of described braided fabric is less than approximately 5cfm, and moisture vapor transmission rate was more than about 10,000 grams/m/24 hours.

86. the braided fabric as described in claim 85, it is characterised in that described fluorine-contained polymerisate fibre is expanded polytetrafluoroethyl,ne fiber.

87. the braided fabric as described in claim 87, it is characterised in that before the braiding of described expanded polytetrafluoroethyl,ne fiber, density is lower than about 0.85g/cc.

88. the braided fabric as described in claim 85, it is characterised in that the water entry pressure of described braided fabric is more than about 1kPa.

89. the braided fabric as described in claim 85, it is characterised in that the water absorption rate of described fabric is less than approximately 30gsm.

90. the braided fabric as described in claim 85, it is characterised in that the weight per unit area of described fabric is 300 grams/m.

91. the braided fabric as described in claim 85, it is characterised in that aspect ratio at least one in described warp-wise fluorine-contained polymerisate fibre and broadwise fluorine-contained polymerisate fibre is more than about 15.

92. the braided fabric as described in claim 85, it is characterised in that described warp-wise fluorine-contained polymerisate fibre and before the described respective braiding of broadwise fluorine-contained polymerisate fibre, thickness is less than approximately 100 microns, and width is less than approximately 4.0mm.

93. the braided fabric as described in claim 85, it is characterised in that described width exceed based on described braided fabric through or latitude prop up and distribute to the width of fluorine-contained polymerisate fibre.

94. the braided fabric as described in claim 85, it is characterised in that the mean rigidity of described braided fabric is less than approximately 300g.

95. the braided fabric as described in claim 85, it is characterised in that the tearing strength of described braided fabric is at least 30N.

96. the braided fabric as described in claim 85, it is characterised in that described fibriilar length is about 5 microns of-Yue 120 microns.

97. the braided fabric as described in claim 85, it is characterised in that also comprise at least one in the yarn fabric and fluoro-containing copolymer film being fixed on described braided fabric.

98. the braided fabric as described in claim 85, it is characterised in that described braided fabric is the form of clothing, glove or footwear.

99. a monofilament fiber, it includes expanded polytetrafluoroethyl,ne, and the density of described monofilament fiber is less than or equal to about 1.0 grams/cc, thickness is lower than about 100 microns, width is lower than about 4.0mm, and aspect ratio is more than about 15, and has essentially rectangular cross-sectional configuration.

100. the monofilament fiber as described in claim 99, it is characterised in that the toughness of described monofilament fiber is more than about 1.6cN/dtex.

101. the monofilament fiber as described in claim 99, it is characterised in that the fracture strength of described monofilament fiber is at least about 1.5N.

102. the monofilament fiber as described in claim 99, it is characterised in that on described monofilament fiber, there is fluorinated acrylic ester coating.

103. the monofilament fiber as described in claim 99, it is characterised in that described monofilament fiber is compliance, thus in knitting structure, described monofilament fiber folds on itself.

104. the monofilament fiber as described in claim 99, it is characterised in that described monofilament fiber has the node and fibril that limit the path running through described fiber.

105. the monofilament fiber as described in claim 99, it is characterised in that described fibriilar length is about 5 microns of-Yue 120 microns.

106. the monofilament fiber as described in claim 99, it is characterised in that the unit weight of described monofilament fiber is lower than about 500dtex.