What is a membrane in a cell. What is membrane material

Development innovative technologies also affected fabrics, so the question of what a membrane in clothing is and what it is intended for is becoming increasingly relevant. It is one of the multifunctional canvases in the modern range. This material is semi-permeable and is presented in the form of a film with a special structure.

Clothing and shoes made of membrane are able to repel moisture from the outside and evaporate it from the inside. This material is quite soft on the bottom, and harder on the top, as it is protective and wear-resistant. The middle layer is the membrane and protective matter.

Caring parents often ask questions about the membrane in clothes for children: what is it, is it dangerous and is it worth buying? The answers to all these questions can be found in our article. This material is actively used to create various elements of both children's and adult clothing, so this information will definitely be useful to everyone.

Properties

Knowing that the membrane in clothing is a synthetic material, many people want to know its properties. They will help determine its purpose and necessity for modern society. The membrane structure is characterized by:

1. Waterproof. This parameter is presented in digital form. It denotes the water pressure that the matter can withstand. When choosing a specific product, you must pay attention to this. Clothing and shoes marked 3000 can withstand only light rain, material with a rating of 10,000 can overcome heavy rain, but a rating of 20,000 guarantees the product is waterproof even in stormy conditions.
2. Wind protection. Regardless of the waterproof rating, any item of clothing will protect its owner from the wind. Membrane products will never allow people to get cold.
3. Vapor release. The third criterion is also of particular importance and is also presented in number format. It indicates the amount of steam in a certain area (g/m2) that comes out during the day. The quality of the material depends on this criterion - the higher it is, the better the material.

Reviews about membrane clothing are always positive. This is largely due to its capabilities described above. It is thanks to them that clothes and shoes made from such fabric are popular in different countries among people of all ages.

Varieties

Winter membrane clothing is available in various variations for both adults and children. Today there are the following types of matter:

1. Double layer. They are produced using a unique technology, the essence of which is that the membrane is glued to the inside of ordinary fabric, and on top of it there is a reliable protective lining.
2. Three-layer. These options represent the basis of the membrane itself and the knitted mesh. The layers are fastened together using lamination. Lining in in this case appears in the form of a grid. This technology makes it possible to reduce the weight of the finished product.
3. Double layer with knitted lining. The design of this material is quite similar to the previous one. The only difference is that the usual lining is replaced with foam jersey. Clothing of this type has even less weight, but this does not change its properties in any way.

Compound

To better understand what a membrane in clothing is, its composition will help. Modern fabrics are made from the following materials:

1. Polyester. This element can hold its shape perfectly. It is quite pleasant to the body. Consumers love it for its long service life and high strength indicators.
2. Tencel. Everyone knows this material due to its softness and ability to absorb moisture. It is obtained from eucalyptus wood.
3. Cotton. It is an important element in membrane clothing. This material is soft to the touch, it absorbs all moisture and retains heat.
4. Bamboo. This fabric is distinguished by its high strength and hypoallergenicity. Bamboo is able to retain sunlight and eliminate unpleasant odors.
5. Teflon. This material has micropores on the outside. It does not let water through. The only drawback of Teflon is the possibility of clogging pores, which interferes with the process of moisture evaporation.
6. Polyurethane. In this case, there are no pores on the surface, but the material still does not allow moisture to pass through. All liquid penetrating inside accumulates from the inside and then evaporates. Among the disadvantages is the fact that it will take a long time to eliminate water.
7. Combined matter. The inner part has a foam membrane, on top of which there is a protective layer that prevents the pores from clogging. IN combined material There are all the advantages of Teflon and polyurethane.

It is due to these components that all adult and children's outer membrane clothing can be safely used in inclement weather. The material will provide warmth and dryness under any conditions.

Usage

Outer membrane clothing is now made for both adults and children. As a rule, these are workwear made from high-quality nylon or dense polyester. In addition, this fabric has proven itself well in sewing moisture-resistant suits.

Athletes who travel to competitions outside their country during the winter or autumn period years old, they know that a membrane in clothing is the best option for them. Today, the production of costumes specifically for such people is carried out by:

• TransActive;
• Porelle;
• Ultimex;
• Cyclone.

At the same time, the fabric is in greatest demand in the following areas:

• mountaineering;
• mountain and ski tourism;
• trips;
• fishing;
• leisure;
• hunting;
• any winter types of sports.

Price

Having learned what a membrane in clothing is, many people want to purchase it. The average cost of material is 400 rubles per meter. But this amount is determined not only by the type of material, but also by its manufacturer, so some products can cost customers 3-4 times more.

In this regard, there are only positive reviews about the membrane (clothing) for children and adults. For some, this price may indeed seem high, but in fact the quality and capabilities of the product justify it. Therefore, buyers have no complaints about the clothes and the fabric itself.

Advantages and disadvantages

Sports membrane clothing has certain features that you need to know about before purchasing it. Like any material, the membrane has its own advantages and disadvantages, for which customers may like it or, conversely, repel them.

Among the positive qualities the following points can be highlighted:

• lightness and comfort (both children's and adult suits allow a person to move freely without constraining him or limiting him);
• no need for an additional layer of warm clothing (this nuance is especially important for small children, since if they have several sweaters they always feel discomfort);
• ease of washing and cleaning (membrane fabric is quickly cleaned of any contaminants and does not require the purchase of any special expensive products).

The disadvantages include:

• fragility (this nuance depends on the category of fabric);
• need for making the right choice the bottom layer (you will have to spend a lot of time on this if you initially had no idea about clothes).

Membrane fabric is not intended for heating, but it perfectly reduces the sweating of its owner and does not allow the body to cool down. For sedentary children, it is best to purchase winter suits with a special insulating lining. At the same time, it is worth paying attention to the fact that membrane clothing is not entirely suitable for daily wear, since its purpose is only for some situations already described above (mountaineering, mountain recreation, tourism, and so on).

What to wear under these clothes

Having understood what a membrane in clothing is, you should decide on the wardrobe items that need to be worn under it. During the winter season it is a must follow right principle selection of layers. It will help protect the body from overheating and a sharp reaction to temperature changes. It is necessary to remember that the membrane material breathes well, which completely eliminates sweating.

Most often, people dress in three layers:

• internal (underwear);
• medium (regular attire - jacket, trousers);
• outer suit (the winter membrane suit itself, protecting from the wind).

Wash

Children's winter clothes made of membrane requires proper care to maintain its strength. It is not recommended to wash it with detergent, as it will simply clog the pores and they will not allow fresh air to pass through. The list of these products includes various rinses, conditioners, powders, and so on.

You can wash clothes with laundry or liquid soap. During the washing period, the material remains safe and sound, but dirt may remain in the pores. The properties of the membrane will not change if it is cleaned in this way. But even despite this, it is better to wear outerwear carefully, avoiding heavy stains.

Cleaning dirt from clothes using a washing machine is strictly prohibited. It does not have a very good effect on the coating, because it works by soaking and then spinning. The best method pollution control membrane clothing is hand wash. The ideal water temperature for this will be 30-40 degrees.

Before starting the procedure, you need to connect the sleeves of the jacket and fasten all the rivets and fasteners located on it. After washing, you should not wring out the item, since to speed up its drying it will be enough just to blot the fabric with some absorbent rag. It should be remembered that the drying process must be carried out on a horizontal surface.

Special care

Membrane children's clothing for the winter should never be ironed after washing. This does not depend on the season, since the item is at any time elevated temperature may deteriorate externally. The water-repellent properties of the membrane can be restored using a special spray containing fluorine. Thanks to this product, a reliable film is formed on the surface of the clothing, which will protect and reduce the negative effects of ultraviolet rays.

Storage

On days when membrane clothing is not in use, it must be stored on a hanger. It should always be in an upright position. To protect it from clogging the porous structure, you need to put a plastic cover on top. You also need to remember that such clothes cannot be stored crumpled and wet. Therefore, before putting things in the closet, they need to be thoroughly washed in accordance with the rules described above and dried.

Manufacturers

Today, Gore-TeX is especially popular. It is engaged in the production of membrane clothing. Initially, the brand produced equipment intended for astronauts, but a little later it offered high-quality sets for mountain tourists, skiers and mountaineering enthusiasts.

Based on quality criteria, you can compare the products of Triple-Point, ULTREX, Sympatex. These products are distinguished by high-quality material, which comes in various modifications. Their cost, of course, is high, but it fully corresponds to the capabilities of the products.

Ceplex and Fine-Tex membrane items are available to many consumers. They are designed for only two seasons, but only if they are actively used. After this period, the material gradually begins to let in moisture, which will no longer be possible to correct.

When choosing a particular membrane product, you should definitely pay attention to the information about gluing seams. It is indicated on each item of clothing. In most products, absolutely all seams are taped, but there may be some where only the main ones are properly processed. For people who engage in active sports, it is best to choose clothes where all seams will be securely reinforced.

Shoes

Special membrane shoes are intended only for professional athletes and people who prefer active recreation outside the city. But despite this, in modern times it is used in everyday life. Warm, fairly light in weight and moisture-resistant shoes are an excellent option not only for the rainy off-season, but also for the harsh winter. Decent air circulation helps maintain a comfortable microclimate inside, as well as maintain optimal foot temperature for a long time.

Distinctive feature membrane shoes, like clothing, is the presence in it of a high-tech polymer material with small pores. It is secured quite tightly between the top padding and the inner lining. Minimum size The holes in this intermediate layer do not let moisture in and do an excellent job of removing natural vapors. From this we can conclude that shoes made of membrane provide good air circulation and maintain optimal dryness and warmth of feet in all weather conditions.

How to maintain the condition of your shoes

Any shoes, including membrane ones, require proper care. It will help maintain its beautiful appearance and thermoregulating properties, as well as extend its service life. This item of clothing needs to be dried only at room temperature, but under no circumstances should you use heating devices, as they will quickly damage the integrity of the structure. In this case, it is best to remove the insole first.

As soon as necessary, shoes should be cleaned of dust and dirt. If the surface is made of leather, then it is better to wipe it soft cloth, a special brush is more suitable for nubuck, but you can use a sponge to clean textiles. Too much dirty shoes can be washed with a soap solution or some water-based product, but without fats and oils in the composition.

You should regularly apply compounds to your shoes that will repel moisture. They will protect the material and increase its service life, maintaining its original appearance.

The characteristics of clothing for active sports are reminiscent of Chinese letters. What are “membrane”, “fleece” and “gore-tex”? Why do you need thermal underwear? How are “waterproofness” and breathability of things combined? "SE Extreme" reveals the secrets of snow clothing!

Lucky us, modern people! We snowboard and ski, do mountaineering, ecotourism, trekking and God knows what else, and we have special clothes for all of this. These are not only jackets and pants, but also underwear, socks and shoes, the development of which takes into account the characteristics of a particular type of activity. We have at our disposal membranes, down jackets, impregnations, anatomical backpack hangers - you name it. In general, everything is fine with us, we even complain sometimes: “I want a three-layer jacket, not a two-layer one, and one with pockets!”

If you look back and think about how people used to cope with the vagaries of nature, how they walked, got wet in the rain and snow, carrying their wealth in “grandfather-style” backpacks, it becomes somehow uneasy. Although some no longer remember that there was nothing except canvas jackets, padded jackets, sweaters and woolen socks. But, despite all the inconveniences, people always went to the mountains, conquered peaks, and skied. They had one wisdom: the colder it is, the more you need to put on yourself. These were strong people, hardy and unpretentious.

But then they got tired of it, and progress began in the production of fabrics suitable for active use on outdoors. The development of special materials was in full swing: people began to puzzle over how to make the fabric as light and effective as possible, so that it would not get wet, not blown out, so that it would warm and remove moisture from the body.

Among the first to succeed in the business were Wilbert and Genevieve Gore, who founded the Gore company (W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc.) in 1958. Wilbert (Bill) Gore worked for DuPont for 17 years, but then life took a different path, and the Gore private enterprise was born. Over the next 12 years, the company has achieved almost worldwide recognition and taken a leading position in the market. This is how the history of the clothing membrane began.

WHAT DO YOU EAT THE MEMBRANE WITH?

So, let's try to figure out what a membrane (membrane tissue) is and what it is eaten with. Technically, a membrane is something like a film of a special structure, and membrane fabric is a matter in the structure of which this very special film is present. There is a world classification that allows you to divide all membrane tissues into several types.

The structure of the membrane can be non-porous, porous or combined.

Non-porous membranes They work according to the following principle: body vapors fall on the inside of the membrane, settle on it and, through active diffusion, quickly move to the outside. The advantage of non-porous membranes is that they are durable, do not require careful maintenance, and work properly in a wide temperature range. Such membranes are usually used in expensive and functional products. What are its disadvantages? At first it may seem that the clothes are getting wet, but this is precisely the same fumes that accumulate on the inside of the thing. That is, non-porous membranes begin to breathe more slowly, however, when they “heat up”, their breathing properties are sometimes superior to porous membranes.

Pore ​​membranes They work on a different principle: drops of water that fall on the membrane fabric from the outside cannot pass through the pores of the membrane inside, since these pores are too small. Accordingly, the outside of the fabric does not get wet.

On the other hand, the vapor molecules produced by sweat are released freely from the inside of the membrane tissue. As a result, we get waterproof membrane fabric on the outside of the product and breathable (steam-removing) properties on the inside. The advantage of pore membranes is that they begin to breathe “quickly”: they remove fumes as soon as you start to sweat. What are the disadvantages? This membrane “dies” quite quickly, that is, it loses its properties. If washed incorrectly (especially with a spin!), the pores of the membrane become clogged, which greatly reduces the breathability - the jacket may begin to “leak”. This drawback may appear if you are not a particular fan of taking care of your things.

Membrane combination: The upper fabric is covered on the inside with a pore membrane, and on top of the pore membrane there is another coating: a non-porous polyurethane membrane film. This fabric combines all the advantages of porous and non-porous membranes, while avoiding their disadvantages, a kind of “two in one”. But high technology comes at a high price. It is for this reason that very few companies use this membrane in their products.

In addition to the division described above, there is a difference in the design of the material itself. According to their design, membrane fabrics are divided into two-layer, three-layer and so-called “two-and-a-half” layers. These words are probably familiar to snowboarders and skiers, as well as people who spend a lot of time in the mountains.

Double layer fabric- this is a fabric on which a membrane is specially applied on the reverse side (usually white, but it can be transparent or with some other dye). In products, this fabric is always used with a lining, since it provides adequate protection of the membrane from clogging and mechanical damage.

Three-layer fabric looks like fine mesh fabric from the inside out. Essentially, it is a top fabric plus a membrane, plus a knitted mesh, glued into one structure using a special lamination technology. The knitted mesh on the reverse side protects the membrane from both mechanical damage and clogging. The most important thing: in three-layer products, the use of a lining is eliminated - one “rag” remains, in which all three components are collected. As a result, we have: mega-lightweight fabric that does not restrict movement, small volume of the product and maximum functionality. The combination of these excellent qualities explains the high cost of products made from three-layer fabric.

“Two-and-a-half”-layer membrane fabric- this is new on the market modern clothes. It doesn’t sound very Russian, but it correctly conveys the meaning of the technology. As a rule, this is an ordinary two-layer membrane fabric, coated on the inside with a kind of protective coating (foamed protective coating in the form of pimples, just knitted pimples, etc.), designed to perform the function of the third layer, i.e., protecting the membrane. Such jackets are as light as possible - they do not need lining, and the weight of protection is much less than that of three-layer materials. But, as you might guess, products made from this fabric are by no means cheap.

By the way, the GoreTex we already mentioned, with which we began our discussion of the topic, is just a patented name for a membrane of a certain structure. For a long time, the company was practically a monopolist on the extreme clothing market, but now many respected and well-known companies produce no less respected membrane fabrics. For example, Toray (Japan) (Dermizax, Entrant HB), Event (USA, produced in Japan), Unitika (Japan). These are leaders in the field of membrane fabric production technologies, which are used in their production by the world's leading brands that produce clothing and footwear for outdoor activities and sports.

There are two more important parameters that you need to pay attention to when buying pants and jackets for outdoor activities - waterproofness and breathability of the fabrics.

Waterproof- this is, roughly speaking, the pressure of the water column that a given fabric can withstand. A piece of fabric is placed in a special machine, stretched, and a column of pressurized water is directed at it. The pressure is gradually increased and watch at what point drops appear on the back of the cloth.

Indicators: 20,000 means that the fabric does not get wet in stormy conditions (strong wind, slanting heavy rain, snow); 10,000 - the fabric can withstand heavy rain; about 5.000 - light rain and snow; around 3.000 - drizzling rain and light wet snow.

Breathability depend on the amount of steam that the fabric transmits over a certain period of time (the currently accepted unit of measurement is “X grams per square meter of fabric in 24 hours”). A piece of fabric is also placed in a special machine, where evaporation is simulated, and after 24 hours they see how much moisture the fabric has “removed.” That is, the higher the number, the greater the amount of moisture removed. For example, in expensive high-quality products, water resistance is usually at least 20,000 mm water column, and breathability is at least 8,000 g/sq.m. m./day. The mid-level membrane usually has characteristics of 8,000 mm/5,000 g/sq. m/day or so.

The basic level is usually 3,000 mm/3000 g/sq. m/day, although in products made from this type of fabric the membrane characteristics are not high enough and can be combined well with the presence of a large number of ventilation holes that allow you to regulate the temperature inside the product.

To provide additional protection from external moisture, there is such a thing as DWR coating. If you pour a little water on fabric treated with DWR, the droplets do not absorb, but lie on the fabric, rolling into balls! This is the result of DWR (Durable Water Repellence) - a coating that does not allow water to pass even through the top layer of fabric (that is, to be absorbed into it). DWR, however, is not durable (it is applied during the production of clothing) and disappears over time (washed off). So in the future, during use and contact with water, wet spots may appear on the fabric. This does not mean that the product gets wet, since the membrane will still not allow water to pass through, but some discomfort may be present. The resulting layer of water on top will not allow the membrane to work, no matter how “cool” it is. In this case, the pore membranes may allow water to penetrate into the product. How to deal with this? Specially developed products with this very DWR coating (NIKWAX, for example), which are sold in stores selling clothing for extreme sports, will help you avoid dying of DWR. If, after washing (or more often), you apply, for example, NIKWAX or another similar product to the fabric, the product will definitely last longer than if you do not.

After such an abundance of information, the logical question is: “How to care for membrane clothes?” Let’s say right away that membrane clothes need to be washed, but not in the same way as ordinary ones. Can not use washing powders with bleach and other aggressive substances - they clog and destroy pores. You cannot use a machine spin - this will deteriorate the membrane, since the spin breaks its fine structure. Do not dry clean or use bleach. Do not iron - the synthetic fabric of the upper will melt and the membrane will be damaged! You can wash clothes by hand with special detergents for washing membrane fabrics (NIKWAX again); If the product is not too dirty, you can wash it with ordinary soap and rub particularly dirty areas with a brush. You can leave it to dry on a line. DWR can be applied to a dry item using a spray can. I would like to note that DWR impregnation should be applied only to clean things, since if you apply impregnation to dirty material, you will not achieve a water-repellent effect. Special detergents must have the inscription on the packaging - “allowed for membrane fabrics”! That's all the main secrets.

All of the above largely applies to the top layer of clothing. It's time to say a few words about the middle, or bottom, layer, and about what materials, fabrics and tricky terms we may encounter when choosing such products.

First, let’s talk about fleece. Fleece- this is a large group of fabrics that are made in the following way: knots are tied onto a fairly strong woven base by machine, then another machine breaks them, and a pile is obtained that is tied to the base. We must admit that many people are often confused about the concepts of “fleece” and Polartec. Let us clear your doubts: Polartec is just a fleece brand. That is, high quality fleece from Malden Mills is called Polartec. That's all the wisdom.

Why is fleece recommended for active sports? Between the pile (from which fleece is actually made) a layer of air is retained, which, as is known, is the best thermal insulator. In addition, unlike natural fabrics (such as cotton), good fleece does not accumulate moisture, but provides the necessary ventilation when overheated and removes condensation outside. This is one of the main reasons why it is recommended to wear a “fleece jacket” during active skiing, especially in the mountains - good fleece means warmth, dryness and comfort. But note: fleece will work this way only if you wear thermal underwear underneath it, and not your favorite cotton T-shirt, which, for all its beauty, unfortunately, does not wick away moisture and immediately gets wet.

Fleeces also come in membrane and non-membrane varieties. With non-membrane ones, everything is clear - there is no membrane in the fabric structure. Membrane fleece consists of three layers, “glued” into one.

Membrane fleeces

1. Soft Shell. Structure: upper - durable fabric that does not absorb moisture and is resistant to wear; middle layer - membrane; bottom - fleece. In some cases, the membrane may be absent from the fabric structure, since in fleece fabrics it is by no means the main component. Windproofness is achieved through special tight weaving.

2.Windblock(wind protection). Structure: top layer - treated fleece fabric (anti-pilling, DWR), middle layer - membrane (sometimes foam is used instead of a membrane), bottom layer - fleecy fleece, which collects moisture and removes it from the body.

Non-membrane fleeces

1. Non-membrane Softshell- This is essentially a “sandwich”, two types of fabric glued together. The upper one provides abrasion and tear resistance, and the one closer to the body warms and removes evaporation by quickly absorbing.

2. Polartec Thermal Pro- This is a warm, lightweight, moisture-repellent material, consisting of two layers. The abrasion-resistant exterior protects against wind and light rain, while the soft, fleecy interior provides maximum insulation. In this case, moisture vapor from the body is freely removed to the outside. Thermal Pro is made from polyester fibers and is very durable and dries quickly. Unlike many fleecy fabrics, the material retains its heat-insulating properties and does not “roll” after repeated washing.

3. Polartec Wind Pro—a material with a denser structure than Thermal Pro, with increased wind protection characteristics.

4. Polartec 200 and fleece of similar quality from other manufacturers- soft and almost weightless material. It has excellent thermal insulation properties. Unlike natural fabrics, it does not accumulate, but removes excess moisture from the body. In terms of thermal properties per gram of material, Polartec 200 is twice as good as sheep's wool and more than three times as good as cotton.

Having considered all of the above, we can highlight the main properties of high-quality fleece:

• Long service life (retains its heat-insulating properties for a long time).
• Thanks to a special anti-pilling coating, the pile does not roll into hated pellets even after repeated washings.
• Fleece does not wrinkle and has a pleasant to the touch structure.

Fleece, like outerwear(for example, for riding), also requires special care. It can (and should!) be washed - by hand or in a washing machine. If by hand, then use regular soap in warm water at a temperature not exceeding 40 degrees. If in the machine, then at the same temperature, using the “gentle wash for synthetic fabrics” mode. Fleece clothing will last longer if you wash it using special gentle detergents. detergents, and then rinse in a solution that restores water-repellent properties (for example, Nikwax Polar Proof). Fleece cannot be ironed or dried in a washing machine or on a radiator. Hang it on a string or on a hanger - the clothes will dry and maintain a decent appearance.

How can all of the above be applied in everyday life and what is all this for? If you snowboard and ski, you probably know that skiing conditions in the mountains and in the city are always different. The “cabbage” version of clothing is considered a classic. First layer: thermal underwear (special tight-fitting sweatshirts and sweatpants) + socks for skating (not ordinary woolen ones). The second layer is fleece, the third is outerwear (pants-jacket or overalls) plus a hat/helmet, mittens/gloves. Depending on the weather, the selection may vary. The point is that all sweat removal technologies only work together, and if you wear a sweater and your favorite T-shirt under a membrane jacket, then the membrane will be of no use. And when everything is correct, then everyone is dry and comfortable. What else does a person need?

And a little about money: as we already said, good quality requires a good investment. If you are not ready to spend a significant amount on clothes right away, start with less - buy things in parts. For example, at the beginning of the season, buy thermal underwear, then fleece, and then “splurge” on membrane items. Dress correctly and don't be cold!

What other inscriptions may appear on the label? Rip Stop is the name of the method of weaving fabric, which in its structure resembles a mesh or honeycomb. That is, this texture uses both thin and thick threads, which makes it possible to produce a durable and at the same time light material. Twill weave is a smooth material that is pleasant to the touch and has excellent strength characteristics. Resist Techno Soft Shell- a material belonging to the class of membrane fleece. The latest word in the field of high-tech fabrics from the Softshell series - Resist Techno Soft Shell is a completely new material that provides comfort when riding and playing active sports, and retains heat perfectly. In addition, this fleece, in fact, works like thermal underwear - it actively removes evaporation during intense loads and retains heat. Fabric Windblock- combines the heat-insulating and breathable properties of fleece and the wind and moisture resistance of the outer layer. Membrane outer surface blocks wind; The inner layer of fabric wicks away excess moisture.

Membrane fabric is an innovative material with selective permeability. Has increased protective properties. Used for the production of children's, sportswear, equipment for fans of active winter recreation and representatives of extreme professions.

Why are membrane fabrics needed?

The word "membrane" has ancient origins and means "membrane". In ancient times it was used in everyday and biological senses. As science developed, the term acquired physical, chemical, and technical meaning. Now membrane technologies are used in light industry for the production of clothing.

One of the main functions of clothing is protective. Previously, they were used to protect against rain rubber shoes, polyethylene raincoats, capes from other . These materials protected well from rain, snow, and wind for some period of time. It is impossible to stay in waterproof products made using old technologies for a long time.

On average, the human body releases more than half a liter of moisture per day, which accumulates on clothes from the inside if there is no way out. With active movements, the volume of sweat released can reach one and a half liters.

The introduction of membranes into the composition of protective fabrics allows water vapor to be removed while preventing moisture, wind, rain, and snow from getting inside.

Structure and mechanism of action of membranes

The simplest example of a membrane product is a cellophane bag (not to be confused with a plastic bag). If you pour, for example, a salted protein solution into a plastic bag and hang it in a container with clean water, then after some time the salt will penetrate through the pores of the cellophane into the water. Cellophane selectively allows small molecules to pass out, retains large ones inside, and water molecules from outside do not leak into the bag.

The membrane layer in tissues works in a similar way. It allows small molecules to come out without letting anything in.

Membranes used in light industry are usually divided into porous (containing pores) and non-porous (supposedly not containing pores). This division is arbitrary, but widespread. It is advisable to use it.

• Membranes with pores are thin polymer layers with very small holes through which molecules of gaseous water (steam) can leak from the inside, but drops cannot fit there. Let us remind you of the school course: in a drop, water molecules “stick together” - they are in the form of associated groups. In the vapor state, water molecules are lonely, the distance between them does not allow them to unite. The American company Gore-TeX makes membrane fabrics from Teflon, per 1 cm 2 of which there are about one and a half billion microholes - pores.
• Non-porous membranes act differently. They also contain many microcells with complex, sinuous shapes that resemble the structure of a sponge. Steam from the skin is absorbed into the cells, saturates the membrane, turns into condensed moisture and, due to the difference in partial pressure (this concept is also from school courses), is released out. This principle of release is possible because there is more vapor inside than outside. If, hypothetically, the owner of the clothes wears them into a sauna or other room with very high humidity, moisture will enter in the same way.

In some materials, different membranes are combined, a layer without pores is placed on the outside, and a layer on the inside with pores. The fabric is effective, but expensive.

Comparison of terms of use

• All membrane tissues remove vapors from the area high blood pressure into a zone of low pressure (as experts say on the gradient of values).
• At high humidity Membranes with pores remove vapors better, especially if there is ventilation on the clothes. Poreless membranes are effective in relatively dry air environments. If the humidity is high or the ventilation is open, such a membrane will not work well.
• At low temperatures, a membrane with pores works better. At subzero material temperatures, poreless membranes simply freeze.
• The porous membrane can become clogged if not properly cared for or worn. Poreless membrane fabrics are durable and last a long time.

Main characteristics

Membrane fabrics are designed to protect against bad weather and create a sense of comfort for wearers. Functions justify the importance of key indicators.

• Waterproof. At high pressures in the water column, any fabric will begin to leak. Maximum tolerable exposure values ​​are important for successful operation. Clothing intended for harsh conditions must withstand pressures of 20,000 mm water column and above. A value of 10,000 mm is acceptable for normal rainy weather conditions.
• Vapor permeability characterizes the mass of vapor in grams that 1 m2 of material can release in a given unit of time (usually 24 hours). The often found minimum vapor permeability is 3000 g/m2, the maximum is from 10000 g/m2. This property is sometimes assessed by its ability to resist steam transport (RET). If this indicator is 0, the fabric completely transmits all steam; with a value of 30, the passage of steam is practically eliminated.

The membrane does not perform insulating functions. It protects from rain, wind, snow, provides “breathing” to the body, and helps provide thermal comfort.

Fabric structure

Structurally, membrane fabrics differ in design.

• In two-layer fabrics, the membrane is fixed on the inside of the fabric. Additionally, it is covered with a lining that protects it from damage and clogging.
• In three-layer fabrics, the outer layer, membrane, and inner mesh are glued together. There is no need for a lining layer. The material is very comfortable, it costs more.
• In some modifications, a special protective coating is sprayed onto the inner surface of the two-layer fabric.
• There are types of membrane fabrics with a water-repellent layer (DWR) applied on top. The coating may wash off over time. It is easily restored using special means.

Leading manufacturers

The most authoritative, historically the first company producing membrane fabrics is Gore-TeX. She made clothes for astronauts. Then several types of products were offered to skiers, climbers, and mountain tourists.

Clothing with Triple-Point, Sympatex, ULTREX membranes is comparable in quality. The material is good quality and is available in several modifications. The price is high, consistent with the properties of the products.

Products with Ceplex and Fine-Tex membranes have an affordable price. It is designed for a maximum of 2 seasons of active wear, after which the material may begin to leak a little water.

When buying clothes made from membrane fabrics, pay attention to the information about taping seams. In some varieties, absolutely all seams are taped, in others - only the main ones. For wearing in the city, taping the main seams is enough. For active sports, it may be better to choose products with all reinforced seams. The choice is up to the potential owner of the clothing.

Rules for caring for membrane tissues

The material is specific in composition and structure. Conventional washing techniques should not be applied to this group of products.

• You can wash fabric with a membrane layer in a machine using a gentle cycle and mild special products.
• You can't do push-ups in the car.
• Cannot be dry cleaned.
• There is no need to iron, there is no need to do this.
• Can be washed by hand if desired.
• You can leave the item in an arbitrarily straightened state so that water drains from it.
• The fabric gets dirty very little. After wearing and drying, it can be lightly cleaned with a regular brush.

Fabrics with membrane materials allow you to feel protected in any bad weather during the most active activities.

If you see a child on the street in a thin-looking jacket and light boots in spring changeable weather, do not rush to blame the parents for inattention to the child’s health or for wanting to toughen him up to the level of a walrus. Most likely, he is wearing membrane shoes and clothes that allow him to feel warm and comfortable in the coldest weather, without turning the child into a head of cabbage.

Why has membrane technology in the manufacture of children's clothing and shoes captivated parents all over the world? Let's find out!

1.What is a membrane and why is it needed?

Membrane technologies in the manufacture of clothing and footwear were initially used in sports, where it was necessary to ensure lightness, comfort and breathability of equipment for athletes. Later, these technologies began to be used for everyday clothing for children and adults.

The membrane is a porous material placed between the outer and inner layers of shoes or clothing. The pores of the membrane are so small that they do not allow moisture, cold or wind to penetrate inside, and at the same time make it possible to remove moisture in the form of steam when sweating. Thus, under membrane clothing a microclimate that is comfortable for the body is created, combining protection from external factors and constant air exchange.

High-quality membrane clothing and shoes are made using well-known membranes patented by manufacturers (Gore-Tex®, SympaTex®), and manufacturers of children's membrane clothing use their own developments and technologies. For example, the Skandia brand uses Skandiatex membrane material, and Alyaska uses Antex & Alaskatex.

Membrane clothing and shoes are multi-layered items in which, in addition to the membrane, additional internal and external layers provide protection from external factors. For example, the outer layer is usually impregnated water-repellent composition or laminated with special means, and the inner layers combine natural (for example, wool) and synthetic fibers for comfort and durability to wear.

In addition, manufacturers usually take care of such little things as the presence of reflective details on children's membrane clothing, sew in child-safe zippers that will not press the skin when fastened, and provide additional protection for the sleeves from cold air with textile cuffs. Children's membrane shoes usually use comfortable fasteners so that the baby can put on his own shoes, as well as a non-slip flexible sole for greater safety in icy conditions and reinforced heels and toes to maximize the life of the shoes.

Since membrane clothing and shoes were originally created for athletes and optimally exhibit their properties during active physical activity, children's membrane clothes are intended primarily for those who move a lot. This does not mean that you need to be in constant active movement to get the maximum effect from wearing membrane clothing, but for babies who mostly sit in a stroller during walks, such clothes or shoes are still not very suitable.

Membrane clothing is optimally suited for temperatures ranging from zero to minus 15-20 degrees. However, both outdoors and indoors, the child will feel comfortable and will not freeze or sweat.

3.How and with what to wear membrane shoes and clothes?

Manufacturers recommend wearing shoes or boots with a membrane on a sock or tights, which should not contain more than 10-20% cotton or wool, or on a thermal sock. This is due to the property of natural fabrics to absorb sweat and not release it, and membrane shoes are good because they allow the feet not to sweat, releasing steam molecules into the external environment. Therefore, it is better to give preference to hosiery with a predominance of artificial materials.

Regarding membrane clothing, you should be guided by the three-layer rule: the first layer is thermal underwear, or underwear, which, as in the case of membrane shoes, should contain a minimum natural materials. The second layer is light, for example, a fleece jacket or jacket. The third layer is the membrane jacket or overalls itself.

4.How to distinguish high-quality membrane clothing and shoes? What should you check when purchasing?

You will have to pay well for the comfort, lightness and convenience that membrane shoes and clothing are famous for. High-quality membrane children's clothes cannot be cheap, so low price You should be wary of membrane shoes or clothing. In this case, there is a possibility of buying something that will not last long and will not bring the expected result.

When buying membrane shoes for a child, you should pay attention to the quality of the sole. It should be flexible and elastic, then such shoes will last a long time. When choosing the appropriate size of shoes with a membrane, you need to take into account that the maximum effect from wearing it is achieved if there is free space inside the shoes. That is, the optimal shoe size will be a margin of 1 cm between the toe of the shoe and the tips of the toes.

When buying children's membrane clothing, pay attention to the quality of the seams. In high-quality clothing, the seams are additionally taped for a greater water-repellent effect.

5.How to care for membrane clothing and shoes?

Since things made using membrane technology are not cheap, it is necessary to take care of their preservation in their original form. Moreover, the properties of membrane clothing or shoes are fully manifested only when the integrity of the membrane is maintained and the wearing conditions are observed.

Prerequisites for preserving the protective properties of membrane shoes are cleanliness and dryness. Despite the fact that manufacturers additionally treat the top layer with protective agents, it is recommended to additionally impregnate membrane shoes with special compounds, especially in urban environments, where shoes are aggressively affected by water, dirt and salt.

After a walk, be sure to clean and wipe your shoes, and then dry them thoroughly. However, membrane shoes should not be dried near a radiator or heater, as this may destroy the membrane. The best option is to dry at room temperature, first tightly stuffing it with newspaper.

It is advisable to wash membrane clothing as rarely as possible so that water-repellent impregnations, in many cases DWR (Durable Water Repellence), applied to the top layer of clothing are not washed out. For minor stains, it is better to wait until the stain dries and brush off the dirt with a brush or wipe with a damp sponge without rubbing the dirt into the fabric. If you need to wash clothes frequently, it is better to take care of additional protection of the upper layers by using special compositions in the form of sprays after washing (for example, the English company NikWax is known for its line of water-repellent sprays for treating membrane clothing).

Membrane materials cannot withstand washing temperatures above 40 degrees, much less boiling. Aggressive chemicals (stain removers, solvents, washing powders with special additives) can have a destructive effect on the membrane and also break the tightness of taped seams of clothing.

Manufacturers do not recommend ironing membrane clothing. However, if necessary, you can use the most low temperature and ensure minimal contact of the iron with the material so that the membrane does not have time to heat up.

6.What companies are represented in our country? Where can you buy membrane clothing and shoes in Belarus?

Children's clothing and shoes with membrane in wide range presented in high-tech clothing and footwear stores from Finland for children and teenagers SuomiKids. The company is the official representative of Finnish manufacturers Reima and Kerry in Belarus.

The membrane is also available in the collections of the Czech brand Alpine Pro and the German company Jack Wolfskin. Companies offer winter and demi-season overalls, trousers and jackets.

In Belarus, membrane shoes can also be found in the collections of such footwear manufacturers for the whole family as Ecco (using Gore-Tex® membrane), Alaska Original (own development - Antex & Alaskatex membrane), big choice children's membrane shoes are offered by the Kotofey and BARTEK trademarks. To purchase membrane clothing or shoes in Belarus, we recommend that you familiarize yourself with the assortment in domestic online stores, where almost all of the listed brands are represented. There is also information in which stores or shopping centers You can try on and buy the model you like.

Summarizing…

...we note that high-quality membrane clothing and shoes are primarily suitable for active children; they are expensive and require special care, but at the same time they are comfortable, lightweight and excellent for walking in our climate with rapid changes in weather conditions.

Olga Bobko

Types of membrane

There are several types of membrane tissue: porous, non-porous, combined.

How do pore membranes work? Water falling on membrane clothing cannot penetrate it, since the pores of the fabric are too small. Accordingly, the fabric on the outside does not get wet. A fair question arises: “What to do with sweat secretions?” They are freely removed from the inside of the membrane tissue.

It is worth noting that such a membrane, like any breathing organism, “dies” relatively quickly. For example, when choosing the wrong washing mode, the pores of the membrane become clogged, which leads to a decrease in the breathability of clothes and loss of waterproofness.

In non-porous membranes, evaporation enters the inner part of the membrane and, through active diffusion, quickly passes to the outer side of the membrane clothing. Such membranes do not require special care, and they can please you for many years. However, it is worth saying that some lucky owners of such clothes, due to evaporation, sometimes have the feeling that the fabric still gets wet. But that's not true!

The most ideal is considered to be a fabric with a combined membrane, which is covered on the inside with a pore membrane. However, this magical clothing also has a significant drawback - its high price.

About the special relationship with membrane shoes...

It is worth emphasizing that you should not wait for perfectly dry shoes after jogging through puddles or snowdrifts. Since the membrane protects not the shoes, but the child’s feet from water. Water remains blocked inside the fabric, and the most reasonable solution in this case is, of course, proper drying.

It is important to know that steam removal will be faster in warm and dry weather than in wet and damp weather. Therefore, be prepared for the fact that on a very rainy autumn day after a walk, the child’s feet may not be dry enough - the difference between the internal microclimate and external conditions was not great enough and the rate of steam removal decreased. But if a child runs, the temperature and humidity inside the shoes increase and “push out” the moisture more and more. This suggests the conclusion that it is not recommended to buy such shoes for babies who still move little or sit in a stroller.

In order for the membrane to “breathe”, you need to monitor the condition of the shoes - the upper textile layer covered with dirt blocks evaporation. Special sprays will help in caring for such shoes, which will not only increase the water-repellent properties of the fabric, but also protect it from contamination.

What do the top experts say?

It would be a good idea to ask advice from mothers who already have such clothes or shoes in their child’s wardrobe. Where are you most likely to meet moms and dads on a sunny day? That's right, on the playground! Of the eleven mothers, two had experience of “communication” with such clothes, and one mother had experience with shoes.

Lena, mother of 4-year-old Lizochka:

“I must admit, when we bought a membrane jacket for the first time, we doubted it magical properties, she seemed a little thin to us then. We even played it safe and bought another down jacket, just in case. But they never put it on. The membrane was worn on a T-shirt at 0 degrees, and on a tank top at -20. It is important that dirt on such clothes can be removed with a regular napkin. This means that you can safely buy your favorite light shades and not worry that you will have to go to kindergarten to pick up your child with a spare jacket: it’s a shame to go home, much less go to a store or visit in grimy clothes.”

Ira, mother of Maxim and Vlad, 3 years old and 7 years old:

“The membrane overalls are just a godsend! Remember how our mothers and grandmothers wrapped us in brown fur coats, and tied a scarf on top. Here it was difficult to sit on the sled, let alone climb the hill. And it was not at all possible to undress myself. And the membrane overalls are light, comfortable, warm, beautiful. My son rides in it on the slide all the time. The child never sweated. It even seems to me that we began to get sick less, just like we bought our favorite light green overalls. In a word, I’m happy with the purchase!”

Marina, mother of 4-year-old Egor:

“We have sneakers with a membrane. We've been wearing it for the second season now. The child likes it. I am pleased. Feet are always dry, regardless of the outside temperature. Unlike leather shoes, the child never complains about cold feet. I still haven’t lost my appearance, I think I’ll be able to carry my second child. Moreover, the color is quite universal. Yes, the price is more expensive than regular shoes, but it’s worth it.”

Olga Gael