A study of performance and comfort properties of waterproof breathable laminated knitted fabrics

Abstract Waterproof breathable properties have recently been widely used in textile applications, due to their comfort properties. The studies on waterproof breathable fabrics are generally related to woven fabrics. In this investigation, we propose to find some evidence that knit fabric structure is also appropriate for waterproof breathable laminations, regarding their comfort properties. Within this scope of investigation, single jersey knitted fabrics, made of viscose, polyester, cotton and bamboo yarns, are laminated with polyether polyurethane and polyester poly- urethane membranes, using reactive polyurethane adhesives. Samples are tested for their water permeability, air permeability, and water vapor permeability, wicking and drying, in their original state and after five washing cycles. The effect of fabric fiber composition and membrane type is analysed.