BARRIER FABRICS AND METHODS OF MAKING SAME

摘要

A liquid impermeable barrier fabric which resists penetration of liquid s under finite hydraulic heads and maintains that capable after upwards of 75 institutional washing/sterilization cycles. The barrier fabric is structural ly characterized by a silicone membrane attached to a fabric substrate. The substrate is a tightly woven fabric which is constructed of polyester yarns. Attachment of the membrane to the fabric substrate by a bonding mechanism in which the silicone material is in intimate contact with a substantial portio n of the looped portions of the yarn, which define the surface of the fabric. This bonding mechanism also includes hydrophilicity of the yarn surfaces with which the silicone is in intimate contact. The fabric is treated with a hydrophilic finish to provide this aspect of the bonding mechanism. This barrier fabric is provide d through the use of coating/calendaring apparatus. A film of highly viscous, uncured silicone is formed with a Mooney viscosity of 45 and then pressed between rollers, into a fabric web; to attain the referenced intimate contac t. The silicone is then cured.