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Ready to ShipRpet waterproof fabric is a type of waterproof fabric made from recycled plastic bottles, also known as rpet (recycled polyethylene terephthalate). This fabric is designed to repel water and keep the wearer dry and comfortable in wet conditions.
Some common types of rpet waterproof fabric include:
Coated rpet fabric
Coated rpet fabric is a type of rpet fabric that has been treated with a waterproof coating, such as polyurethane (pu) or silicone. The coating process involves applying a thin layer of pu or silicone to one or both sides of the fabric using a machine called a grabber or laminator.
The pu coating is typically applied using a process called slot-die coating, where a thin layer of pu is spread evenly across the fabric surface through a narrow slot or die. For silicone coatings, a similar process or a technique called knife-over-top is used to apply the viscous silicone adhesive.
The coating is then cured or dried using heated rollers, gas or infrared driers, allowing the pu or silicone to form a solid, waterproof membrane. The coating binds to the polyester fibers of the rpet fabric so it cannot easily be peeled or pulled away.
Laminated rpet fabric
Unlike coated fabric, where the pu or silicone coating is applied directly to the fabric, laminated rpet fabric uses a different method to combine the waterproof layer with the rpet textile. Laminated rpet fabric sandwiches or laminates a waterproof, breathable membrane material between layers of rpet polyester textiles. Common membranes used in lamination are Gore-Tex, eVent, or proprietary micro porous membranes from manufacturers.
The lamination process oftentimes uses adhesives or heat to bond the membrane to the outer and inner rpet layers. This construction provides excellent waterproofing and moisture wicking to keep users dry in outdoor conditions.
Ripstop rpet fabric
Ripstop rpet fabric is made using a special reinforcement thread in a cross-square pattern that strengthens the fabric and makes it more resistant to tearing and ripping. The term "ripstop" originally referred to its use in parachute and military gear fabrics, but it has since expanded to other uses.
The reinforced threads typically used are nylon or polyester of thicker denier (dtex) that are woven into the standard rpet polyester textile. This creates a grid pattern visible on the fabric's surface. When accidents cause small tears, the ripstop reinforcement helps prevent them from spreading and ruining the entire material.
Tent rpet fabric
Tent rpet fabric refers to types of waterproof rpet textiles specially designed and engineered for outdoor camping and backpacking tents. It is rugged yet lightweight and entirely manufactured from recycled plastics to be ecologically friendly.
Features like the waterproof coatings or laminations and durable ripstop weaves help protect against the elements such as rain, wind, and UV sun exposure. The petroleum-derived rpet offers stability even under extreme weather.
The design of rpet waterproof fabric involves carefully selecting and processing recycled materials to create a functional and eco-friendly textile. Key design elements include:
Fiber and weaving
Rpet waterproof fabric is primarily composed of polyester fibers, which are one of the easiest fibers to recycle back to virgin plastic through chemical means. Polyethylene terephthalate (pet) is abundant in single-use plastic bottles that rpet is derived from. These are first cleaned, shredded, and chemically recycled into purified terephthalic acid.
For waterproof textiles, the fibers are woven tightly in different patterns to create a smooth, uniform fabric surface. The weave strength and tension are essential in creating a barrier to liquid penetration. Finely detailed micro weaves are used for tent fabrics requiring water protection. In contrast, coarser weaves suffice for standard winter fabrics.
Waterproof coatings and technologies
Various treatments are applied to provide rpet textiles with waterproof capabilities. The most efficient coatings include:
Pu (polyurethane) coating: A flexible coating bonded to the rpet through a heat and adhesive lamination process.
Membrane technology: Similar to pu, breathable but waterproof membranes like Gore-Tex are sandwiched between fabric layers for premium moisture-blocking performance used in high-end gear.
Hydrophobic finish: Chemicals and treatments are applied directly to the fabric surface to make it inherently waterproof without membranes or coatings. These are cheaper but suffice for basic rain blocking.
Aesthetic finishings
To enhance the texture, feel, and visual appeal, coatings such as silicone and polyurethane make the fabric exterior glossy and smooth but also strengthen the waterproof barrier.
Fabric dyes, embossing patterns, and printed graphics are uncomplicated methods of customizing the fabric colors and forms to meet design preferences for applications ranging from tents, tarps, and outdoor gear. Such diverse aesthetics are important, even for performance fabrics, to fulfill brand style and faciliate marketing differentiated purposes.
Outdoor and recreational products
The outstanding waterproofing, strength, and lightness render rpet fabrics extremely valuable in making tents, tarps, and other outdoor gear.
For example, tarps and tents made from rpet or other recycled polyester fabrics protect people camping or hiking from the elements such as rain and snow.
Travel bags and cases
Other commercial uses of rpet waterproof fabric are travel bags, suitcases, backpacks, and cases for other accessories as it is rugged, durable, and lightweight. Rpet fabric is also water-resistant, so electronics such as laptops or tablets have at least some protective covers that keep water and moisture out.
Clothing and accessories
Other commercial uses of rpet fabric are clothing such as jackets and other outerwear or windbreakers and rains and are ideal for making clothing designed for wet weather or outdoor activities. Other clothing such as hats and gloves and even ponchos are made from rpet fabric. Other fashion accessories, such as waterproof straps, wristbands, and covers, are also made from rpet fabric. This kind of fabric can be eco-friendly and, at the same time, will protect against water.
Home textiles
Rpet fabrics are also suitable for home furnishings and decorations, such as curtains, drapes, and shades, and can be used for umbrellas, cushion or throw pillow cases, and chair covers but are waterproof. There are also table covers, tablecloths, runners, and placemats made of rpet waterproof fabric that is also resistant to water.
Purpose and application
Clearly identifying these purposes and knowing exactly what type of application the rpet waterproof fabric will be used for is the first consideration when choosing fabrics. Referring to usage or working environments, fabrics that are probably going to be used on a daily basis or that are highly stressed should be given preferential strength and durability features.
Other things to consider are the external factors that the fabric will be exposed to and whether it will be used indoor or outdoor. Consider any environmental and weather conditions, such as direct sunlight, extremely wet conditions, or changes in temperatures, which a fabric might have to withstand when making a choice.
Water resistance
This will help ensure the proper waterproof level is achieved in the specific area of use. Check the water column pressure ratings or the coat finishes and membranes on the fabric. The water column pressure number refers to the height of water a fabric can withstand before moisture permeates through it. A higher water column pressure is always better for heavy rain, camping, or tactical uses. For indoor use or light rain, lower numbers will suffice.
Breathability
Breathability is also important to consider and ensure that trapped moisture and vapors do not build up under the fabric. Look for fabrics with breathable membranes like Gore-Tex or with built-in air permeability. This is especially important for clothing or gear where body heat and humidity can lead to discomfort if not properly ventilated.
Durability and strength
Durability and strength are important factors for any rpet waterproof fabric. Consider the thickness or denier of the fabric and the weave construction and how these relate to the intended use. Look at the wear or tear ratings of exposure to UV radiation or chemicals for outdoor scarcity and standard lighting.
Environmental considerations
One of the good news about rpet fabrics, however, is that they are environmentally friendly, especially with the factoring in of rpet materials made from plastic bottles, and hence, the use and wastage are reduced. However, consider eco-friendly production methods and chemical coatings cloe’d applied may be harmful to the environment.
Cost and budget
There also may be cost considerations. There are generally very different prices in rpet waterproof fabrics, depending on using levels or what is actually contained within. First, purposes such as industrial or professional uses may require high-performance fabric with special finishes and laminations. For daily basic uses, inexpensive options will suffice and are practical.
A1: Rpet refers to recycled polyethylene terephthalate. It is a polymer that forms the most common type of plastic, which is plastic bottles. It has become an ecological alternative as a healthy planet does not have to suffer from more plastic pollution and waste because it is used to manufacture synthetic fabrics.
A2: While rpet fabric itself is not inherently waterproof, it can be treated to become waterproof. The process used can involve applying a waterproof coating, such as polyurethane, or laminating the fabric with a waterproof membrane. These treatments enhance the fabric’s ability to repel water, making it suitable for outdoor gear, bags, and tarps.
A3: It is generally considered safe. It is rigorously treated in the processes of recycling and manufacturing rpet fabrics. The plastic bottles are clean. They are usually shredded and chemically recycled into rpet. The resulting rpet is purified to remove any contaminants. Therefore, it is safe for many uses, including home furnishings.
A4: Although recycled polyester is less durable than virgin polyester, rpet fabric is still very durable. It can be sufficient for everyday use if adequately maintained. What is essential for extending the life of rpet textiles are factors like environmental conditions, exposure to sunlight, washing and care routines, and the quality of the initial manufacturing.
A5: The level of breathability in rpet fabric largely depends on the type of treatment or coating applied to it. While standard rpet fabrics can be breathable, waterproof coatings and membranes can reduce their breathability. However, breathable membranes like Gore-Tex can be laminated to rpet, allowing moisture and air to escape while preventing water ingress.
