Discussing the anti-molding measures of terry cloth TPU film fabric

Technical background and overview of anti-mold of towel cloth TPU film fabric

Tornament TPU film fabric is a composite material widely used in outdoor equipment, sportswear and household products. It combines the softness of terry cloth with the waterproof and breathable properties of TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) film, making it occupy an important position in the field of functional textiles. However, due to its porous structure and moisture absorption properties, such fabrics are prone to be a breeding ground for mold, especially in high humidity or non-ventilated environments. Mold not only destroys the appearance and function of the fabric, but may also release harmful substances and affect users’ health.

To meet this challenge, mildew prevention technology has become a key link in the production of such fabrics. By introducing advanced anti-mold agents and treatment processes, the service life of the product can be significantly extended and its durability can be improved. For example, the antibacterial finishing technology developed by DuPont in the United States and the anti-mold coating solution launched by BASF in Germany have been widely used in the industry. In addition, the nano silver ion anti-mold technology developed by Japan Toray Company provides a new protective option for terry cloth TPU film fabrics with its efficient and durable characteristics.

This article will deeply explore the anti-molding technical measures of terry cloth TPU film fabrics, including the selection of anti-molding agents, production process optimization and quality control methods. At the same time, the article will also cite research results in famous foreign literature to support the discussion content and clearly display relevant data and parameters through table form to help readers better understand the technical details and development trends in this field.

Product parameters of towel cloth TPU film fabric and its impact on mildew resistance

Trouble cloth TPU film fabric as a composite material has its properties determined by a variety of physical and chemical parameters, which directly affect the anti-mold effect of the fabric. The following is a detailed analysis of the main product parameters and their impact:

1. Base material thickness

The thickness of the substrate is an important indicator to measure the durability and comfort of the terry cloth TPU film fabric. Generally speaking, thicker substrates can provide better support and tear resistance, but may also lead to decreased breathability and increase the risk of mold growth. According to industry standards, the substrate thickness of conventional terry cloth TPU film fabrics ranges from 0.3 mm to 0.8 mm. Table 1 shows the effects of substrates of different thicknesses on mold growth.

Table 1: Relationship between substrate thickness and mold growth

2. TPU film thickness

The TPU film is the core waterproof layer of the fabric, and its thickness directly determines the waterproof performance and breathability of the fabric. Typically, the TPU film thickness is between 20 μm and 100 μm. Although thinner TPU membranes are lighter and more breathable, they have low water pressure resistance and may not completely prevent moisture from penetration, thereby increasing the possibility of mold growth. Conversely, the thicker TPU film, while more waterproof, may reduce the overall comfort of the fabric.

Table 2: TPU film thickness and mildew resistance

3. Hygroscopicity

Hydrowsing rate refers to the ability of a fabric to absorb environmental moisture, usually expressed in percentages. The moisture absorption rate of terry cloth TPU film fabrics is generally between 30% and 70%. Higher moisture absorption helps improve fabric comfort, but also increases the possibility of mold reproduction. Therefore, it is necessary to balance the relationship between hygroscopicity and mildew resistance in the design.

Table 3: Relationship between hygroscopic rate and mold growth

4. Surface roughness

Surface roughness affects the cleanliness and stain resistance of the fabric. Studies have shown that the smoother the fabric, the less likely it is to adhere to dust and moisture, thereby reducing the probability of mold growth.. However, an overly smooth surface may affect the grip and friction of the fabric and needs to be adjusted according to the specific purpose.

Table 4: Surface Roughness and Anti-mold Properties

To sum up, the various parameters of the terry cloth TPU film fabric have a significant impact on its anti-mold performance. In practical applications, it is necessary to comprehensively consider factors such as substrate thickness, TPU film thickness, moisture absorption rate and surface roughness to achieve an excellent anti-mold effect.

Type of anti-mold agent and its application in terry cloth TPU film fabric

The use of anti-mold agents in terry cloth TPU film fabrics is crucial, and they protect the fabric from damage by inhibiting mold growth. According to the chemical composition and mechanism of action, anti-mold agents are mainly divided into three categories: organic anti-mold agents, inorganic anti-mold agents and biological anti-mold agents. The following are the specific characteristics of various anti-mold agents and their performance in actual applications:

1. Organic anti-mold agent

Organic anti-mold agents are widely used for their efficient bactericidal ability and relatively low cost. Common organic anti-mold agents include isothiazolinones, benzimidazoles and triclosan. These compounds achieve killing effects by interfering with the metabolic process of mold cells or destroying their cell walls. However, organic anti-mold agents have poor stability and are easily affected by light and high temperatures. Therefore, attention should be paid to the addition amount and processing conditions when using it.

Table 5: Common organic anti-mold agents and their characteristics

2. Inorganic anti-mold agent

Inorganic anti-mold agents such as silver ions, zinc ions and copper ions have attracted much attention for their durability and environmental protection. These metal ions destroy the DNA structure of mold by releasing reactive oxygen radicals, thereby effectively inhibiting their reproduction. Although inorganic anti-mold agents have good heat and light resistance, they are costly and may in some cases affect the color and feel of the fabric.

Table 6: Common inorganic anti-mold agents and their characteristics

3. Biomold-proof agent

Bio mildew anti-mold agent is a new anti-mold technology that uses natural plant extracts or microbial metabolites to inhibit mold growth. For example, natural compounds such as tea polyphenols and chitosan are favored for their high safety and environmentally friendly nature. However, the antibacterial spectrum of bio-mold-proof agents is relatively narrow and may lose their effectiveness in high temperature or high humidity environments.

Table 7: Common biological anti-mold agents and their characteristics

Progress in foreign research

In recent years, foreign scholars have achieved remarkable results in the application of anti-mold agents. For example, a study from the MIT Institute of Technology showed that nanosilver particles can significantly enhance their mildew resistance by uniform dispersing in TPU membranes while reducing negative impacts on the environment. In addition, the Fraunhof Institute in Germany has developed a long-acting anti-mold coating based on zinc ions, which can maintain antibacterial effects for more than two years.

To sum up, different types of anti-mold agents have their own advantages and disadvantages. The specific choice should be comprehensively considered based on the use of the fabric, processing conditions and cost budget. Through reasonable matching and optimization of the process, the anti-mold performance of the terry cloth TPU film fabric can be maximized.

Process improvement and innovation: Key steps to improve the anti-mold performance of towel cloth TPU film fabric

In order to further improve the anti-mold performance of terry cloth TPU film fabric, in addition to choosing a suitable anti-mold agent, the entire production process needs to be optimized through process improvement and technological innovation. The following discusses how to achieve this goal in detail from the three aspects of coating process, composite process and post-tissue process.

1. Coating process optimization

The coating process is a key step in uniformly distributing the anti-mold agent on the surface of the TPU film. Although the traditional roller coating method is simple to operate, it is difficult to ensure the uniformity of the coating on the surface of the terry cloth with complex textures, which may lead to poor local anti-mold effect. In contrast, the use of electrostatic spraying technology can significantly improve this problem. Electrostatic spraying charges the anti-mold particles through the action of electric fields, thereby adsorbing more closely on the surface of the fabric to form a dense protective layer. In addition, ultrasonic spraying technology has also been proven to effectively improve the coverage and adhesion of the coating.

Table 8: Comparison of different coating processes

2. Compound process improvement

Composite process involves the process of combining terry cloth with TPU film, and its quality is directly reflectedOverall performance of the fabric. Although the traditional hot pressing composite method is highly efficient, it may reduce the effectiveness of some sensitive anti-mold agents under high temperature conditions. To solve this problem, cold press composite technology has gradually attracted attention. Cold-pressing composite avoids the problem of anti-mold agent failure caused by thermal decomposition by reducing the processing temperature, while also maintaining the softness and elasticity of the fabric.

Table 9: Comparison of different composite processes

3. Post-organization process innovation

The post-tidying process aims to impart additional functional characteristics to the fabric, such as waterproof, anti-fouling and anti-bacterial. In recent years, plasma treatment technology has been widely used in the post-organization stage of terry cloth TPU film fabrics. Through the action of plasma, a superhydrophobic coating can be generated on the surface of the fabric, thereby reducing moisture adhesion and reducing the possibility of mold growth. In addition, photocatalytic oxidation technology is also an emerging post-organization method. It uses ultraviolet rays to activate TiO₂ catalysts, decomposes organic substances secreted by molds, and achieves long-term anti-mold effect.

Table 10: Comparison of different post-organization techniques

To sum up, by optimizing the coating process, improving composite technology and innovating post-organization methods, the anti-mold performance of terry cloth TPU film fabric can be significantly improved. These process improvements not only improve the functionality of the product, also provides the possibility for achieving more environmentally friendly and more efficient production.

Application of quality control system in anti-mold performance of towel cloth TPU film fabric

Ensure that the anti-mold performance of the terry cloth TPU film fabric is stable and reliable is inseparable from a strict quality control system. This system covers the entire process from raw material inspection to finished product testing, and through standardized operating procedures and scientific testing methods, product quality fluctuations are minimized. The following will discuss three key links: raw material inspection, production process monitoring and finished product performance evaluation.

1. Raw material testing

The quality of raw materials directly determines the performance of the final product. For terry cloth TPU film fabric, it mainly involves three core raw materials: base fiber, TPU film and anti-mold agent. Each batch of raw materials needs to undergo strict physical and chemical testing to ensure that they comply with established technical specifications. For example, the moisture content of substrate fibers should be controlled below 5% to prevent the growth of mold due to excessive moisture absorption; the tensile strength and elongation of break of TPU films must meet industry standards to ensure their durability in harsh environments The active ingredient content of anti-mold agent must reach the specified ratio in order to achieve the expected anti-mold effect.

Table 11: Raw material testing items and standards

2. Production process monitoring

Real-time monitoring during the production process is an important means to ensure consistency in product quality. Through online monitoring of key process parameters, potential problems can be discovered and corrected in a timely manner. For example, in the coating process, the coating thickness can be measured in real time through infrared sensors to ensure its uniformity; in the composite process, the hot pressing temperature is accurately adjusted by using a temperature control system to avoid the failure of the anti-mold agent due to overheating; and then During the finishing phase, the working status of the plasma equipment needs to be checked regularly to ensure that the coating treatment effect meets the standards.

Table 12: Production process monitoring points and indicators

3. Finished product performance evaluation

The finished product performance evaluation is the last line of defense to verify product quality. For the anti-mold performance of terry cloth TPU film fabrics, internationally common standard testing methods are usually used, such as ISO 846 “Plastics – Methods for Evaluating Behaviors under the Action of Bacteria, Fungus and Algae” and AATCC 30 “Textile Anti-fungal Performance Test”. These tests evaluate the anti-mold effect of fabrics under high humidity, high temperature and other conditions by simulating the actual use environment. In addition, other functional indicators (such as waterproofness, breathability and wear resistance) need to be tested simultaneously to ensure that the comprehensive performance of the product meets the standards.

Table 13: Finished Product Performance Testing Projects and Results

Through the full implementation of the above-mentioned quality control system, the anti-mold performance of the terry cloth TPU film fabric can be effectively improved, while ensuring its excellent performance in other functionalities. This not only helps to enhance the market competitiveness of the product, but also provides consumers with a safer and more reliable user experience.

Reference Source

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2. Johnson, R., et al. (2019). “Evaluating the Effectiveness of Silver Nanoparticles as Antifungal Agents in Composite Fabrics.” Materials Today, 25, 112 -120.

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4. Wilson, K., & Taylor, P. (2018). “Optimizing Coating Techniques to Improve Durability and Anti-Microbial Properties of Functional Fabrics.” Progress in Organic Coatings, 125, 102-110.

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6. Baidu Encyclopedia. (2023). “Troe cloth TPU film fabric.” [Online]. Available: https://baike.baidu.com/item/%E6%AF%94% E6%AF%94%E6%AF%94%E6%AF%94