| 摘要 |
<p>The disclosure is directed to a breathable membrane (20A) and a method of constructing a fabric having the membrane (20A). The membrane (20A) is resistive to transport of liquid water, has a layer of breathable material (22) and is stabilized dimensionally against distension by a force field, such as forces applied to the membrane or resulting from a hydrostatic pressure. This is accomplished by a reinforcing matrix (26) of nonwoven filaments (24) extending in plural directions along the layer of breathable material (22) to inhibit the distension. In the matrix (26), the filaments (24) are arranged to have a plurality of filaments intersect to form cells. The diameter of the individual cells is greater by an order of magnitude than the diameter of one of the filaments. The reinforcing matrix (26) may be embedded in the layer of breathable material (22) or may be adhesively bonded (56) to the material (22). The membrane (20A) may include a layer of fibers (57) and this may be enveloped in the breathable material (22). Utility includes use in a surgical gown or drape, a covering for a wall of a house, as well as a covering of a container for industrial processes.</p> |
