Performance, Processing, and Application Prospects of Waterborne Polyurethane in Functional Fabric Coatings
01. In the textile industry, fabric coating finishing technology is one of the important processes for improving fabric performance and expanding its application range. Waterborne polyurethane (WPU), with its excellent film-forming properties, good flexibility, and stable chemical characteristics, is gradually becoming one of the core materials in this field. This article will systematically introduce the main characteristics, commonly used processing methods, and innovative applications of waterborne polyurethane in fabric coating finishing, as well as its application in functional textiles.
02. Waterborne polyurethane coatings possess several excellent physical properties. The resulting coating film exhibits high flexibility, resisting cracking even when the fabric is bent or stretched. Through reasonable formulation design, this coating can also demonstrate good water resistance and chemical resistance, effectively extending the fabric's service life. Simultaneously, the microporous structure formed by waterborne polyurethane balances air permeability and moisture permeability, allowing the coated fabric to maintain comfort while possessing functionality.
03. In terms of functional customization, waterborne polyurethane coatings demonstrate strong flexibility. By adding nanomaterials such as TiO₂ or silver ions, as well as various functional additives, fabrics can be endowed with additional properties such as antibacterial, UV resistance, or flame retardancy. The coating thickness, gloss effect (matte or high gloss), and surface texture can also be adjusted according to requirements to meet diverse product design needs.
04. Waterborne polyurethane coating technology is highly adaptable and can bond well with a variety of textile substrates, including natural or synthetic fibers such as cotton, polyester, nylon, and silk, and even nonwoven fabrics. In terms of processing methods, it can be combined with traditional textile coating processes such as padding, spraying, and coating, facilitating large-scale application on existing production lines.
