Development of Heat-Sealable Sewing Thread. Phase 1
Abstract
Developmental CP fabrics contain a waterproof breathable membrane (Gore-Tex) barrier which is laminated to the underside of an outer shell fabric. This barrier provides liquid water resistance and some degree of agent resistance. During sewing this barrier becomes perforated, inviting penetration by liquid and vaporous agents, thereby posing a severe hazard to the soldier. This problem is presently handled by using a hot melt tape to seal the thread bundles and holes generated by sewing. The purpose of this program was to screen and evaluate hot melt coatings for thread which could heat seal the holes made during sewing. Commercially available hot melt coatings investigated included: polyesters, polyamides, polyurethanes, vinyls, and ethylene copolymers. Quantitative peel strength data for the hot melts versus polyester, nylon and Gore Tex were developed. The best hot melts were coated onto nylon thread, which was then sewn into nylon Taslan/Gore-Tex/tricot knit cloth. The sewn cloth samples were tested for hydrostatic resistance. Based on the results of the hydrostatic resistance tests, the adhesive chosen for pilot plant coating and machine sewing was Michem 4990, an ethylene/acrylic acid copolymer based material supplied by Michelman/Dow Chemical Company.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1987
- Accession Number
- ADA197604
Entities
People
- C. Mowrey
- J. Labis
- R. White