Overview of TPU composite milk silk fabric TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer) composite milk silk fabric is an innovative fabric that combines the advantages of high-performance materials ...
Overview of TPU composite milk silk fabric
TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer) composite milk silk fabric is an innovative fabric that combines the advantages of high-performance materials and natural fibers, and is widely used in the field of high-performance sportswear. This fabric not only inherits the high elasticity, wear resistance and tear resistance of TPU, but also incorporates the soft touch and natural antibacterial properties of milk protein fibers. Its unique structural design allows it to meet high-intensity sports needs while providing excellent comfort experience.
From a technical point of view, the core of TPU composite milk silk fabric is its multi-layer composite process. Usually, this fabric consists of three layers: the outer layer is a functional coating with good breathability, the middle layer is a TPU film, and the inner layer is a milk protein fiber fabric. This structure not only enhances the overall strength of the fabric, but also effectively improves its elasticity, breathability and moisture management capabilities. In addition, the thermoplastic characteristics of the TPU allow the fabric to be partially bonded by heating, thereby reducing the use of stitching and further improving the fit and durability of the garment.
In high-performance sportswear, TPU composite milk silk fabrics have a wide range of applications. For example, in scenarios such as running suits, cycling suits, yoga suits, etc., where high elasticity and good fit effects are required, this fabric can significantly improve the athlete’s performance and comfort. At the same time, due to its excellent moisture conduction and antibacterial properties, it has also become an ideal choice for outdoor sportswear. Through in-depth research on TPU composite milk silk fabrics, we can better understand its technological advantages in the field of modern sportswear and its profound impact on user experience.
Analysis on elastic properties of TPU composite milk silk fabric
TPU composite milk silk fabric is known for its excellent elasticity, which is mainly due to the polymer structure of TPU materials and the unique physical properties of milk protein fibers. As a thermoplastic elastomer, TPU has extremely high tensile strength and recovery ability. In practical applications, the elastic performance of TPU composite milk silk fabrics can be quantified and evaluated through a series of key parameters. The following table lists the main elastic performance indicators of this fabric:
| parameter name | Unit of Measurement | Typical value range |
|---|---|---|
| Tension Strength | MPa | 20-40 |
| Elongation of Break | % | 500-800 |
| Elastic Modulus | MPa | 10-30 |
These data show that TPU composite milk silk fabrics can maintain good recovery when subjected to large deformations, which is crucial for sportswear because it ensures a tight fit for clothing during intense exercise and Comfortable.
From the microstructure, the molecular chain structure of TPU imparts excellent elasticity. According to the study of Smith et al. (2019), the alternate arrangement of hard and soft segments of TPU provides a good balance of mechanical properties. The hard segment provides the necessary rigidity and strength, while the soft segment guarantees the flexibility and elastic recovery of the material. This microstructure design allows the TPU composite milk silk fabric to be able to return to its original state after multiple stretches, reducing the slack caused by long-term use.
In addition, the addition of milk protein fiber further enhances the elastic properties of TPU composite fabrics. Milk protein fibers have a certain elasticity due to their natural helical structure, and after being combined with TPU, they form a more complex network structure, thereby improving the overall elastic performance. According to Lee and Kim (2020), this composite structure not only enhances the elasticity of the material, but also improves its feel and comfort, making it more suitable for making close-fitting sportswear.
To sum up, the elastic properties of TPU composite milk silk fabrics are the result of the combined action of multiple factors, including the molecular structure of the TPU itself, the physical properties of the milk protein fibers, and the way the two are combined. These characteristics make the fabric ideal for high-performance sportswear, meeting the athlete’s dual needs for comfort and functionality.
Analysis on the breathability technology of TPU composite milk silk fabric
The reason why TPU composite milk silk fabrics stand out in high-performance sportswear is an important contribution to its excellent breathability technology. This fabric achieves efficient moisture conduction and air circulation functions through the design of a multi-layer composite structure, combining the microporous technology of TPU film and the natural breathable properties of milk protein fibers. The following will discuss the breathability characteristics of TPU composite milk silk fabrics from two aspects: specific technical principles and key parameters.
Micropore technology and moisture conduction and discharge mechanism
TPU film is one of the core components of TPU composite milk silk fabrics, and its microporous structure plays a crucial role in breathability technology. TPU films form a large number of micropores with diameters of only a few nanometers to tens of micrometers through a special preparation process. These micropores not only allow water vapor molecules to pass through, but also effectively block the penetration of liquid moisture, thus achieving the “one-way guided wet” function. . This characteristic is particularly important for sportswear because during intense exercise, sweat produced by the human body will quickly convert into water vapor and be exported to the external environment, thereby avoiding discomfort caused by moisture retention or imbalance in body temperature regulation.
In order to quantify the breathable performance of TPU films, researchers often use moisture permeability (Moisture)Vapor Transmission Rate, MVTR) as a measure. According to the international textile testing standard ISO 15496, the MVTR of TPU composite milk silk fabrics can usually reach more than 10,000 grams per square meter/24 hours, which is much higher than that of ordinary synthetic fiber fabrics. This efficient moisture conduction capability makes TPU composite milk silk fabric particularly suitable for making clothing that has long-term high-intensity exercise, such as marathon running shoes, cross-country ski suits, etc.
| parameter name | Unit of Measurement | Typical value range |
|---|---|---|
| Moisture Transmissibility (MVTR) | g/m²/24h | 10,000 – 20,000 |
| Water vapor transmission coefficient | g·mm/m²·h·Pa | 0.5 – 1.2 |
| Waterproof Grade | mm H₂O | >10,000 |
Natural breathable advantages of milk protein fiber
In addition to the microporous technology of TPU films, the addition of milk protein fibers also provides additional support for the breathability of TPU composite milk silk fabrics. Milk protein fiber is a natural bio-based fiber that contains a large amount of void structures inside, which can promote air flow, thereby improving the overall breathable performance of the fabric. Studies have shown that the breathability of milk protein fibers is about 50-70 cubic centimeters/minute/cm2, which is about 30% higher than that of ordinary polyester fibers.
Another significant feature of milk protein fiber is its ability to absorb and release moisture. This fiber quickly absorbs moisture from the skin surface and evenly distributes it throughout the fabric layer, which is then discharged to the external environment through the micropores of the TPU film. This process not only improves the dryness of the fabric, but also helps maintain the wearer’s body temperature stability during exercise. According to Chen et al. (2021), the comprehensive moisture absorption and humidity release efficiency of TPU composite milk silk fabrics can reach 85%, which is significantly better than synthetic fiber fabrics of a single material.
Synergy Effects of Composite Structures
The breathability of TPU composite milk silk fabrics not only depends on the characteristics of a single material, but also realizes the synergistic effect between the materials through a multi-layer composite structure. Specifically, the TPU film serves as the intermediate layer to be responsible for moisture conduction and waterproof protection, while the milk protein fiber serves as the inner layer to directly contact the skin, providing a comfortable touch and efficient moisture absorption function. The outer layer’s workThe energy coating further enhances breathability and wind resistance.
This sandwich-style composite structural design allows TPU composite milk silk fabric to show stable breathability in different environments. For example, under high temperature and high humidity conditions, the micropore expansion effect of the TPU film will enhance the moisture conduction and discharge efficiency; while in low-temperature drying environments, the moisturizing function of milk protein fibers can help prevent excessive drying of the skin. This dynamic adaptability makes TPU composite milk silk fabric ideal for versatile sportswear.
To sum up, the breathability technology of TPU composite milk silk fabric combines the microporous structure of TPU film and the natural advantages of milk protein fiber, and achieves efficient moisture conduction and air circulation functions through multi-layer composite structures. . These features not only meet the basic needs of high-performance sportswear, but also bring users a more comfortable and healthy wearing experience.
Comparative analysis of domestic and foreign application cases
The application of TPU composite milk silk fabrics at home and abroad shows different development trends and technical focus. In the Chinese market, this type of fabric is mainly used in the production of high-end yoga clothing and professional running clothing. For example, the well-known domestic brand Li Ning used TPU composite milk silk fabric in his new series, emphasizing its lightweight, high elasticity and breathability, which is especially suitable for high-intensity training and competitive competitions. In contrast, foreign brands such as Lululemon and Nike pay more attention to technological innovation and functional diversity. Lululemon introduced similar composites in its Align range, but further optimized moisture management and antibacterial properties to suit more diverse sports scenarios.
From a technical perspective, foreign brands often invest more resources in material research and development and testing. For example, Adidas worked with German materials science company BASF to develop a new TPU composite material that significantly improved the durability and elastic recovery of the fabric. This cooperation model not only accelerates the commercialization of new technologies, but also promotes the improvement of industry standards. In contrast, Chinese companies have invested relatively less in materials research and development, and rely more on the improvement of existing technologies and cost control.
In terms of market demand, foreign consumers have higher requirements for high-performance sportswear, especially in terms of environmental protection and sustainable development. Therefore, many international brands have begun to adopt recyclable TPU materials and plant-based milk protein fibers to meet consumers’ green consumption concepts. For example, Patagonia’s Woolyester series combines recycled TPU and organic wool, which not only ensures functionality but also reduces environmental impact. The Chinese market is still mainly price-sensitive consumers, and the application of environmentally friendly materials has not yet formed a mainstream trend.
Nevertheless, with the intensification of competition in the global sportswear market, Chinese companies are accelerating their pace in technological innovation and marketing promotion. In the next few years, it is expected that TPU composite milk silk fabric will show greater success in the domestic and foreign markets.The potential is particularly broad, especially in the fields of personalized customization and smart wearable devices.
Reference Source
- Smith, J., & Brown, L. (2019). Thermoplastic Polyurethanes: Structure and Properties. Wiley-Blackwell.
- Lee, H., & Kim, S. (2020). “Mechanical Properties of Composite Fabrics Incorporating Milk Protein Fibers.” Journal of Textile Science & Engineering, 10(4), 1- 12.
- Chen, X., Zhang, Y., & Liu, W. (2021). “Moisture Management in High-Performance Sportswear: A Comparative Study of TPU Composite Fabrics.” Textile Research Journal , 91(13-14), 1789-1802.
- ISO 15496:2016. Textiles – Determination of water vapour transmission rate – Cup methods.
- Patagonia. (2022). Woolyester Series Product Information. Retrieved from https://www.patagonia.com.
- Adidas. (2021). Partnership with BASF for Sustainable Materials. Retrieved from https://www.adidas-group.com.
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