TPU fabrics are made by bonding a thermoplastic polyurethane membrane to a base fabric, such as nylon or polyester. This produces technical textiles that resist environmental stresses such as water, oil, chemicals, ozone and oxygen, yet retain the base material's flexibility. They have high tensile and compression strength, large elongation break and resistance to puncture, abrasion and hydrostatic pressure.
Insulation
TPU coated fabrics block light, insulating and softening sound, providing noise-dampening qualities. Blackout fabrics made with a '3-pass' process have the ability to function as both decorative fabric and blackout lining in one. This is achieved by coating the base fabric first with a layer of white foam, then a layer of black foam and finally a third layer of white or light-colored foam.
TPU fabric also has exceptional tensile and compression strengths, large elongation break, weldedability and good chemical resistance. These properties make it ideal for manufacturing dry suits, survival suits, life vests, buoyancy compensators, antistatic oil seals and lifting bags.
Noise-Dampening
In addition to blocking light and insulating, TPU-coated fabrics also have noise-dampening features due to their density. TPU is a thermoplastic elastomer, combining the characteristics of plastic and rubber without the use of plasticizers to make it flexible. This helps the fabric to withstand abrasion and stress, and it is also able to flex with the body, allowing it to absorb vibrations. Compared to cheap pool-toy-style packrafts made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC, a type of vinyl), TPU-coated fabrics are lighter, stronger, more flexible, and do not give off noxious fumes when heated. Fabric strength is often referred to in grams per square meter (GSM), but denier and thread count are also important factors when choosing fabric for your application.
Durability
When used in curtains or drapes, linnet blackout fabric blocks out light completely and can be a good choice for rooms that require complete darkness, such as bedrooms or home theaters. It also provides privacy, preventing outsiders from seeing into the room. It is also an effective insulator, helping to keep rooms warm in the winter and cool in the summer, which can help reduce energy costs.
Linnet blackout fabrics are available in a variety of colors and patterns to match any decor. They are also durable, with a heavy, tightly woven construction that is designed to last. Some are coated with TPU on only one side (single coated), while others have it applied on both sides (double coated).
In addition to denier, thread count, and TPU coatings, other factors can contribute to fabric strength. GSM, or grams per square meter, is a more accurate indication of strength than denier alone.