Evaluating the Breathability and Moisture Barrier Performance of Waterproof Fabric Coatings

Waterproof fabric coatings are essential in various industries, from outdoor apparel to construction materials. They provide protection against moisture, enhancing durability and performance. To ensure the effectiveness of these coatings, rigorous testing is crucial. This article explores the testing methods commonly used for waterproof fabric coatings, drawing on the principles outlined in the provided paper on exterior wall coatings.

Key testing methods include Water Vapor Transmission Rate (WVTR), Water Resistance Test, Durability Testing and so on.

Water Vapor Transmission Rate (WVTR) test measures the rate at which water vapor passes through the fabric. It's essential for assessing the coating's breathability, preventing moisture buildup and ensuring comfort. The cup method can be adapted for fabric coatings. By placing a sample between a high-humidity chamber and a low-humidity chamber, the weight change over time can determine the WVTR.

Labthink C360M Water Vapor Transmission Rate Test System is designed and manufactured based on the gravimetric determination method and conforms to the requirements of ASTM E96. This instrument can be used to measure the water vapor transmission rate of barrier materials with high, medium and lower moisture barrier properties with a wide testing range and high testing efficiency. The instrument features Labthink’s patented test chamber design with multiple test dishes. C360M is equipped with precision made test dishes, highly accurate balance, embedded professional software which supports automatic controlling of temperature, humidity and flow rate precisely and guarantees the testing sensitivity and repeatability of the test results. C360M is applicable to determination of water vapor permeability of plastic films, sheeting, paper, packages and other packaging materials in food, pharmaceutical, medical apparatus, building materials and consumer goods, etc.

Water resistance test evaluates the fabric's ability to resist water penetration. It often involves applying a hydrostatic pressure to the fabric and measuring the pressure at which water starts to pass through. A higher pressure rating indicates better water resistance.

Durability testing is to assess the coating's long-term performance, durability tests are conducted. These may include abrasion resistance, UV exposure, and chemical resistance tests. These tests evaluate the coating's ability to withstand wear and tear, maintain its waterproof properties, and resist degradation from environmental factors.

Labthink C681M Flex Durability Tester is professionally applicable to the determination of flex durability of composite films and flexible coated materials. The instrument can simulate the kneading and creasing behaviors of the materials happened during production, processing and transportation. The flex durability can be obtained by measuring the changes in number of pinholes or barrier properties after test, which can provide quantitative basis for package design and practical usage.

Testing waterproof fabric coatings is vital to ensure their quality and performance. By employing methods such as WVTR, water resistance, rain penetration, water absorption, and durability testing, manufacturers can evaluate the effectiveness of their coatings and make necessary improvements. The information provided in the original paper on exterior wall coatings offers valuable insights into testing principles and methodologies that can be adapted for fabric coatings.

As the demand for functional packaging materials grows, testing methods are evolving to ensure a more comprehensive evaluation of packaging films. Labthink encourages collaboration with packaging industry companies for quality control! Visit the website www.labthink.com to learn more!