What is a membrane in a cell. Cell membrane: its structure and functions. Profiled membrane: characteristics, functions and advantages

Thanks to the development of innovative technologies for the invention of fabrics, today in the assortment you can see a wide selection of multifunctional fabrics; membrane remains one of them. This is a semi-permeable material, which is presented in the form of a film with a special structure. Multilayer fabrics that are equipped with such a film are called membrane fabrics.

In finished garments, they are able to repel water from the outside, but still allow moisture that builds up inside to evaporate. The bottom layer of material is soft, and the top layer is protective and wear-resistant. But the middle one is protective matter and a membrane.

Description of fabric Membrane

The membrane is a synthetic material. It has the following properties:

1. Waterproof. This indicator is presented in digital form. Indicates the water pressure that matter can withstand. When purchasing membrane-based products, this criterion must be taken into account. If the product has the number 3,000, this indicates that the material is able to resist light rain. But material with an index of 10,000 is not afraid of heavy rain. Material with 20,000 is a product that will not get wet even in severe bad weather and stormy conditions.
2. Vapor release. This criterion is also presented in number format. Displays the amount of steam in g/m2 of fabric that comes out per day. The higher this criterion, the better the material.
3. Wind protection. With membrane-based products, you don’t have to worry about getting chilled by strong winds.

Types and characteristics of membrane material

Membrane fabric today comes in various types. If we consider fabric by fabric design, we distinguish the following types:

A distinctive feature is that instead of a lining there is foam knitwear. Such membrane clothing has even less weight, but this does not affect its properties in any way.

The video shows a description of the membrane fabric:

Compound

Membrane fabrics today can be produced based on the following materials:

1. Tensela. This material is obtained from eucalyptus wood. The fabric is distinguished by its softness, it is pleasant to the body and perfectly absorbs moisture. You can read in detail at the link.
2. Polyester. This material is known to everyone for its ability to hold its shape. It is pleasant to the body, does not wrinkle, has high strength and a long service life. Described here.
3. Cotton. This is a soft material that is pleasant to the touch. It does not create static electricity, retains heat and absorbs moisture. The links are listed.
4. Bamboo. This fabric is hypoallergenic and durable. It blocks the sun's rays, absorbs moisture and unpleasant odors, and is also pleasant to the body. you can find out what bamboo fiber is, whether it is synthetic or not.
5. Teflon. This matter is equipped with micropores that are present on the outer surface. The material does not allow water to pass through, but moisture evaporates well without collecting inside. The disadvantage of the material is that the pores can become clogged, as a result of which the evaporation process is disrupted.
6. Polyurethane. There are no pores on its surface. The material does not allow water to pass through. The moisture that is concentrated inside first accumulates on the wrong side and then evaporates. The downside of the canvas is that moisture evaporation does not occur immediately, which can result in the feeling that the product is wet. Also read,.
7. Combined material. Inside the canvas there is a foam membrane, and on top of it is a protective layer. It prevents pores from getting clogged. This material has all the advantages that are characteristic of polyurethane and Teflon.

The photo shows the structure of the membrane fabric:

Application

Today, membrane fabric has become actively used for the manufacture of workwear. In the production of jackets, technology is used using dense polyester or high-quality nylon. Membrane fabric has also proven itself to be excellent when sewing moisture-resistant suits.

The following manufacturers often use membrane fabric in the production of clothing:

In addition to the manufacture of workwear, membrane fabric is in great demand in the following industries:

• skiing and mountain tourism;
• mountaineering;
• hunting and fishing;
• winter sports;
• travel and active recreation.

Video: use of fabric: clothing, insulation, lining

The video describes the use of membrane fabric as insulation:

Price per meter

The average wholesale price for membrane fabric is 350 rubles per m. Taking into account the manufacturer and the characteristics of the material, the cost can reach a maximum of 1,500 rubles per m.

Modern manufacturers, possessing innovative technologies, are able to offer the latest developments of membrane materials that are used in a wide variety of areas of human activity. What is membrane clothing? This is a high-tech material, which, due to its qualities, is used for sewing sports, casual and outdoor clothing. The clothing industry offers clothing not only for adults, but also for children.

The main trends in the development of the modern economy include improving product quality. This is achieved through the introduction of innovative methods into production. Today, clothing made from membrane-coated fabric is very popular. The range of products made from this material is very large.

It is made from:

• Membrane clothing and shoes for people involved in active sports and tourism;
• Special clothing for firefighters and medical workers;
• Uniforms for military personnel and sets for winter fishing.

Membrane material appeared relatively recently. Over the past 10 years, he has gained widespread fame. Items made from this material must meet the requirements: exhibit protective properties during periods of atmospheric exposure and provide a comfortable feeling in the underwear space. In case of heavy load, the material is able to remove excess moisture and heat. To obtain fabric with a thickness of 10-30 microns, extrusion methods, coagulation or thermal biaxial stretching are used.

To connect the membrane to the fabric, polyurethane is used for adhesion, which is coated with an atmospheric-active film. It passes along with the canvas through the pressure rollers of the calender, which allows the two materials to be glued together.

When designing and creating professional membrane clothing for children and adults in winter, designers try to cope with a multifaceted and complex task, to combine all the characteristics of the material in a product:

• Aesthetic appearance;
• Comfortable cut;
• Insertion of reflective elements with optical recognition into children's membrane clothing;
• Clothing for tourism made of membrane material should have a long service life;
• High-quality atmoactive laminates are able to influence the membrane, which, in turn, affects the comfortable well-being of people in the winter.

How to distinguish the material? Winter clothing has common basic indicators:

1. Water resistance - this indicator is characterized by the height of the water level and the ability of the membrane to withstand it without letting it in. The moisture content measurement is calculated in millimeters or other units such as PSI (POUND PER SGUARE INCH). This measurement means weight in pounds per inch². Studies have shown that if the material has a PSI value greater than 25 units, then the product will be waterproof. With a material rating of 1-24 PSI, the product is considered to have low resistance to moisture. But this indicator is enough for people who do not engage in extreme sports. Therefore, there is no need to overpay for extra layers of clothing. All layers must be glued so that moisture does not penetrate into the product through them. If the label says “all seams are sealed” ─ this means that the seams of the suit are completely sealed for the winter. And if the label contains the inscription “critical seam sealing” ─ it means that only the main seams are taped in the kit, and in case of heavy rain the product may get wet over time;
2. Moisture permeability - if the definition of this characteristic is theoretically understandable, then digital indicators mean nothing to many consumers. An unscrupulous manufacturer can take advantage of this. He sometimes indicates indicators of clothing for children made of membrane material that absolutely do not correspond to the technical characteristics of the material, which leads to disastrous results during testing.

Testing is based on measuring the amount of liquid in grams that can evaporate per day in m² (g/m²/24 hours) ─ this is the MVTR indicator moisture vapor transmission rate ─ moisture vapor transmission rate. Special laboratories are designed to carry out these tests. The main thing is that consumers should remember that the MVTR B2 marking for the test is considered universal. The membrane is a fragile and thin material. The sheet version is applied to the final product. If the membrane is used in liquid form, then it is applied to the base material and forms a membrane coating, which has received the second name ─ laminate.

Main types of membrane material:

• 2l – a two-layer type is marked with the value 2L. The sheet material is applied to the fabric. A two-layer product has the advantage of economical weight and high moisture permeability. The product is duplicated with an internal lining made of mesh. You can use two-layer clothing during sports, as well as for everyday use;
• 5l – two and a half layers. It consists of two layers, between which there is an additional protective layer of non-woven material. Ski clothing made from this brand of material is light and compact. The membrane is protected by an outer layer on which there are rubber “pimples” with a diameter of less than 1 mm. The membrane does not come into contact with clothing and protects it from various damages. This does not prevent the product from retaining all the properties of the three-layer Gore-Tex material and gaining weight. For example, the Millet brand's Paclite jacket weighs just 470g;
• 3l – three-layer type. In this design, the membrane is protected by fabric on both sides. All products have high wear resistance. It can be used for sports and special kits intended for use in extreme conditions.

Features of clothing

Membrane clothing does not get wet, reliably protects from gusty winds and cold weather, and “breathes” perfectly, thereby creating comfortable conditions when worn.

For children

An excellent option for outerwear during the cold period is membrane children's clothing. When a baby takes his first steps in winter, it is not very comfortable for him to walk in bulky fur overalls. Heavy sets restrict movement, so they try to purchase light, functional, comfortable membrane winter clothing for children. High-quality outerwear can be combined with properly selected underwear, which can provide the baby with comfortable, warm and dry wearing in any bad weather - a snowy winter down to -20˚C or a rainy autumn day. In addition, the membrane fabric is endowed with dirt-repellent qualities. Almost all children's clothing is different:

• Wear resistance;
• Durable color range;
• Decorated with reflective inserts.

For the above properties there is a corresponding marking on the label. For example, an indicator of 3000-15000 mm of water column indicates the intensity of rain at which the coating will begin to transmit moisture. Laboratory studies show that with an indicator of 4 thousand mm H2O, children's clothes do not allow moisture to pass through and the child always remains warm and dry.

Brands that produce membrane clothing and shoes for children:

• Reima - for its products the company uses high quality insulation materials that provide warmth in severe frosts. Parents can choose the optimal design for their baby from a variety of styles and colors;
• Ketch is a recently created Swedish company that has already become popular in the market. Buyers claim that there is no need to wear other warm clothes under the clothes of this company;
• Gore-Tex is an American company that has developed durable, breathable shoes. If the label says “Gore-Tex”, parents can be confident in the quality of the product;
• Sumpa Tex - a German company presented shoe products without membrane pores. In this model range, moisture is removed from the warm side of the membrane material to the cold side. It is not afraid of dirt, and reagents do not spoil the appearance of the product.

Top sellers of children's membrane clothing:

• Winter set Reima 513100-4901 Misteli is a model for girls with a comfortable design. The set consists of a jacket and overalls. It has a waterproof and non-blown fabric with dirt-repellent impregnation. The presence of fluffy Comfort+ insulation with high elasticity gives the product volume. Model price 6 thousand rubles;
• Winter jacket for girls Sisarus Reimatec 531300-4190 - a combination of design, quality and practicality that will appeal to parents and children. The material is breathable, the hood is removable, the material is dirt-repellent. Model price 8038 RUR;
• Ricosta shoes - a German manufacturer uses only natural and high-tech materials for children's shoes. Model price 2850 rub;
• Boots Kotofey 454968-42 – the model is decorated with snowflakes and has two Velcro fasteners. Phylon material is used for the sole. The internal insulation is fur. Model price 2500 rub;
• Ketch set (art. 090254-090255) – the model consists of a jacket and overalls. Designed for temperatures from + 6˚ to – 28˚С. The price of the set is up to 4000 rubles.

For adults

Today, membrane clothing for women and men is used not only for hiking, outdoor activities and skiing at ski resorts. You can wear it in ordinary city life. The products allow you not to freeze at a temperature of -15-20˚С and not to sweat in a warm, enclosed room. The properties of the material will be respected in the case of multi-layering.

Do not wear clothes that absorb moisture or do not breathe well. The American company W. L. Gore & Associates began experimenting with polytetrafluoroethylene to produce this material in 1959, and only in 1976 a fabric with a water-repellent, windproof, and “breathable” effect was created.

When creating membrane clothing for hunting, manufacturers use modern fabric, which has a large number of microholes - up to 1.4 million pieces per 1 cm². This porous layer is located between the top and inner layers. This design is used not only for clothing, but also for adult shoes. The holes are 20 thousand times smaller than a drop of water. Moisture is removed through them in the form of steam. You can winter in membrane clothing; it is light in weight and folds compactly.

Companies that manufacture membrane suits:

• Norfin - membrane suits from a Latvian company, lightweight, comfortable, and highly waterproof. There are no warmer clothes for fishing or hunting. In the hunting collection, the cost of products reaches $300-400;
• Red Fox - a well-known Russian manufacturer has gained popularity in the market due to its quality and affordable prices;
• Dupont, an American manufacturer, has not yet become widely known among outerwear manufacturers, but is proud of its underwear products ─ unique socks that not only retain heat and “breathe,” but also do not allow moisture to pass through from the outside. The price of these socks is $25. They use underwear membrane clothing for hunting.

Let's look at some models of adult membrane clothing:

• Norfin Extreme 2 XXL (309105-XXL) – the model is intended for fishermen, and membrane clothing for hunters is also used by lovers of new technologies. Which can withstand frost of -32˚C. The straps in the model are adjustable, the waist is tightened with a fastener, the knee pads consist of additional soft inserts, and the bib overalls have a zipper inserted at the bottom. Price 5500 rub;
• Ataks Pea Jacket - a model designed for climbers. The base consists of a double padding polyester with two chest pockets and other additional elements that distribute the necessary cargo. The membrane coating is pixel atax color. The knitted collar has a wind flap. Average price from 2700 rubles;
• Neve Astra - women's and men's trousers made of Evapora membrane fabric. They are waterproof and do not allow cold to pass through. Adjustable along the entire length of the trousers. All seams are taped and have pockets with zippers. Average price from 2500 rubles;
• Norfin Scandic suit – this model belongs to the rain suits. Able to provide comfortable rest in various weather conditions. The product has many pockets, the bottom of the jacket is pulled together, has a mesh lining and other additional elements. Price 9500 rub;
• Armani Women Jacket 281408 - this model is designed for women who engage in skiing. It is windproof and waterproof. Additional high-quality, insulated elements with knitted cuffs make you feel comfortable. The price of the jacket is from 39 thousand rubles.

Seasonal selection

Modern membrane products will help protect against frost or strong winds. To make clothes comfortable and warm, you need to make the right choice. Whatever season you purchase clothes for, you need to consider some rules:

1. It is important to pay attention to the design of the product. The cut should be comfortable and correspond to the size chart;
2. Winter sets are bought a little loose so that they do not restrict movement and retain heat better;
3. Pay attention to the quality of the seams. It is necessary to eliminate uneven stitching, unprocessed cuts, and protruding threads. This indicates low quality and a bad reputation of the manufacturer;
4. When choosing winter or demi-season clothing, experts recommend purchasing a 2.5-layer membrane. Since 2-layer is considered short-lived, 3-layer has significant weight, which will make it difficult for both adults and children to move.

How to wear membrane clothing so that it works correctly and pleases not only with its functionality, but also with its aesthetic appearance? The main thing in operation is multi-layering:

• The first layer is underwear;
• The second layer is insulation;
• The third layer is outerwear (jacket, pants, overalls).

It is undesirable to wear all things made from natural materials, as they tend to absorb moisture. And you need to remember: the membrane only works during periods of active human activity.

In spring and autumn, it is advisable to use thermal underwear. And at -5˚ you need to insulate yourself by wearing a woolen or fleece suit.

Additional functions

• Additional ventilation. Membrane clothing for men has good vapor permeability, but no consumer will refuse additional ventilation of the suit. It can be represented by the presence of “pit-zips” lightning. Additional ventilation takes place in membrane clothing for hunting in places where there is no direct rain. This could be a zipper that is inserted into the inside of the sleeve, passing through the armpit and down the side seam. And in trousers, the zipper is inserted into the inner thigh. If the temperature rises, it can be unfastened. The entire thermoregulation of the entire membrane structure depends on the length of the zipper;
• Pockets with mesh lining. In some models, manufacturers use pockets based on mesh lining. It provides additional ventilation;
• Self-release trousers. This function is found in hiking, mountaineering, ski touring/freeride equipment. The model has excellent ventilation. And the design itself has the property of quickly putting on or removing an extra layer, focusing on the weather, without removing shoes;
• Additional processing. By treating the material with a liquid containing fluorine, a protective film is formed on the structure, which repels moisture but allows air to pass through. The fabric is not afraid of external pollution and ultraviolet radiation;
• Fleece or soft inserts. They eliminate contact of the membrane with the human body and increase its durability;
• Visor made of flexible material. The element covers the face in windy, rainy weather or during snowfall;
• Snow skirt. Additional protective detail for harsh weather with low temperatures, used for mountaineering and other activities.

Photo

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 outdoor use. 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.

Poreless 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. In essence, 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, a 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 a new product on the modern clothing market. 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 are not absorbed, 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 same 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. Do 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 no higher than 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 with special gentle detergents and then rinse it 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 weaving 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.

Nature has created many organisms and cells, but despite this, the structure and most of the functions of biological membranes are the same, which makes it possible to examine their structure and study their key properties without being tied to a specific type of cell.

What is a membrane?

Membranes are a protective element that is an integral part of the cell of any living organism.

The structural and functional unit of all living organisms on the planet is the cell. Its life activity is inextricably linked with the environment with which it exchanges energy, information, and matter. Thus, the nutritional energy necessary for the functioning of the cell comes from the outside and is spent on its various functions.

The structure of the simplest structural unit of a living organism: organelle membrane, various inclusions. It is surrounded by a membrane, inside which the nucleus and all organelles are located. These are mitochondria, lysosomes, ribosomes, endoplasmic reticulum. Each structural element has its own membrane.

Role in cell activity

The biological membrane plays a pivotal role in the structure and functioning of an elementary living system. Only a cell surrounded by a protective shell can rightfully be called an organism. A process such as metabolism is also carried out due to the presence of a membrane. If its structural integrity is disrupted, this leads to a change in the functional state of the body as a whole.

Cell membrane and its functions

It separates the cytoplasm of the cell from the external environment or from the membrane. The cell membrane ensures the proper performance of specific functions, the specificity of intercellular contacts and immune manifestations, and maintains the transmembrane difference in electrical potential. It contains receptors that can perceive chemical signals - hormones, mediators and other biological active components. These receptors give it another ability - to change the metabolic activity of the cell.

Membrane functions:

1. Active transfer of substances.

2. Passive transfer of substances:

2.1. Diffusion is simple.

2.2. Transfer through pores.

2.3. Transport carried out by diffusion of a carrier along with a membrane substance or by relaying a substance along the molecular chain of the carrier.

3. Transfer of non-electrolytes due to simple and facilitated diffusion.

Cell membrane structure

The components of the cell membrane are lipids and proteins.

Lipids: phospholipids, phosphatidylethanolamine, sphingomyelin, phosphatidylinositol and phosphatidylserine, glycolipids. The proportion of lipids is 40-90%.

Proteins: peripheral, integral (glycoproteins), spectrin, actin, cytoskeleton.

The main structural element is a double layer of phospholipid molecules.

Roofing membrane: definition and typology

Some statistics. In the Russian Federation, membrane has been used as a roofing material not very long ago. The share of membrane roofs out of the total number of soft roof slabs is only 1.5%. Bitumen and mastic roofs have become more widespread in Russia. But in Western Europe, the share of membrane roofs is 87%. The difference is noticeable.

As a rule, the membrane as the main material when covering the roof is ideal for flat roofs. For those with a large slope it is less suitable.

The volumes of production and sales of membrane roofing on the domestic market have a positive growth trend. Why? The reasons are more than clear:

• The service life is about 60 years. Just imagine, only the warranty period of use, which is established by the manufacturer, reaches 20 years.
• Easy to install. For comparison: installing a bitumen roof takes 1.5 times longer than installing a membrane roof.
• Ease of maintenance and repair work.

The thickness of roofing membranes can be 0.8-2 mm, and the average weight of one square meter is 1.3 kg.

Properties of roofing membranes:

• elasticity;
• strength;
• resistance to ultraviolet rays and other aggressive environments;
• frost resistance;
• fire resistance.

There are three types of roofing membrane. The main classification feature is the type of polymer material that makes up the base of the canvas. So, roofing membranes are:

• belonging to the EPDM group, are made on the basis of polymerized ethylene-propylene-diene monomer, or simply put, Advantages: high strength, elasticity, water resistance, environmental friendliness, low cost. Disadvantages: adhesive technology for joining sheets using a special tape, low strength of joints. Scope of application: used as a waterproofing material for tunnel floors, water sources, waste storage facilities, artificial and natural reservoirs, etc.
• PVC membranes. These are shells in the production of which polyvinyl chloride is used as the main material. Advantages: UV resistance, fire resistance, wide range of colors of membrane fabrics. Disadvantages: low resistance to bituminous materials, oils, solvents; releases harmful substances into the atmosphere; The color of the canvas fades over time.
• TPO. Made from thermoplastic olefins. They can be reinforced or unreinforced. The former are equipped with a polyester mesh or fiberglass fabric. Advantages: environmental friendliness, durability, high elasticity, temperature resistance (both at high and low temperatures), welded joints of fabric seams. Disadvantages: high price category, lack of manufacturers in the domestic market.

Profiled membrane: characteristics, functions and advantages

Profiled membranes are an innovation in the construction market. This membrane is used as a waterproofing material.

The substance used in production is polyethylene. The latter comes in two types: high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and low-density polyethylene (LDPE).

Technical characteristics of LDPE and HDPE membranes

Index
Tensile strength (MPa)
Tensile elongation (%)
Density (kg/cu.m.)
Compressive Strength (MPa)
Impact strength (notched) (KJ/sq.m)
Flexural modulus of elasticity (MPa)
Hardness (MRa)
Operating temperature (˚С)	from -60 to +80	from -60 to +80
Daily water absorption rate (%)

The profiled membrane made of high-pressure polyethylene has a special surface - hollow pimples. The height of these formations can vary from 7 to 20 mm. The inner surface of the membrane is smooth. This allows for trouble-free bending of building materials.

Changing the shape of individual sections of the membrane is excluded, since the pressure is distributed evenly over its entire area due to the presence of the same protrusions. Geomembrane can be used as ventilation insulation. In this case, free heat exchange inside the building is ensured.

Advantages of profiled membranes:

• increased strength;
• heat resistance;
• resistance to chemical and biological influences;
• long service life (more than 50 years);
• ease of installation and maintenance;
• affordable price.

Profiled membranes come in three types:

• with single-layer fabric;
• with two-layer fabric = geotextile + drainage membrane;
• with three-layer fabric = slippery surface + geotextile + drainage membrane.

A single-layer profiled membrane is used to protect the main waterproofing, installation and dismantling of concrete walls with high humidity. A two-layer protective layer is used during installation. It consists of three layers and is used on soil that is susceptible to frost heaving and on deep soil.

Areas of use of drainage membranes

The profiled membrane finds its application in the following areas:

1. Basic waterproofing of the foundation. Provides reliable protection against the destructive influence of groundwater, plant root systems, soil subsidence, and mechanical damage.
2. Foundation wall drainage. Neutralizes the effects of groundwater and atmospheric precipitation by transporting them to drainage systems.
3. Horizontal type - protection against deformation due to structural features.
4. Analogous to concrete preparation. It is used in the case of construction work on the construction of buildings in an area of ​​low groundwater, in cases where horizontal waterproofing is used to protect against capillary moisture. Also, the functions of the profiled membrane include preventing the passage of cement laitance into the ground.
5. Ventilation of wall surfaces with high humidity levels. Can be installed both on the inside and outside of the room. In the first case, air circulation is activated, and in the second, optimal humidity and temperature are ensured.
6. Inversion roofing used.

Superdiffusion membrane

The superdiffusion membrane is a new generation material, the main purpose of which is to protect roofing structure elements from wind, precipitation, and steam.

The production of protective material is based on the use of non-woven substances, dense fibers of high quality. Three-layer and four-layer membranes are popular in the domestic market. Reviews from experts and consumers confirm that the more layers a structure is based on, the stronger its protective functions, and therefore the higher the energy efficiency of the room as a whole.

Depending on the type of roof, its design features, and climatic conditions, manufacturers recommend giving preference to one or another type of diffusion membrane. So, they exist for pitched roofs of complex and simple structures, for pitched roofs with a minimum slope, for roofs with seam covering, etc.

The superdiffusion membrane is laid directly on the thermal insulation layer, the flooring made of boards. There is no need for a ventilation gap. The material is secured with special staples or steel nails. The edges of the diffusion sheets are joined and work can be carried out even under extreme conditions: in strong gusts of wind, etc.

In addition, the coating in question can be used as a temporary roof covering.

PVC membranes: essence and purpose

PFC membranes are a roofing material made from polyvinyl chloride and have elastic properties. Such modern roofing material has completely replaced bitumen roll analogues, which have a significant drawback - the need for systematic maintenance and repair. Today, the characteristic features of PVC membranes make it possible to use them when carrying out repair work on old flat roofs. They are also used when installing new roofs.

A roof made of this material is easy to use, and its installation can be done on any type of surface, at any time of the year and in any weather conditions. The PVC membrane has the following properties:

• strength;
• stability when exposed to UV rays, various types of precipitation, point and surface loads.

It is thanks to their unique properties that PVC membranes will serve you faithfully for many years. The lifespan of such a roof is equal to the lifespan of the building itself, while roll roofing materials require regular repairs, and in some cases, complete dismantling and installation of a new floor.

PVC membrane sheets are connected to each other by hot welding, the temperature of which is in the range of 400-600 degrees Celsius. This connection is completely sealed.

Advantages of PVC membranes

Their advantages are obvious:

• flexibility of the roofing system, which best suits the construction project;
• durable, airtight connecting seam between membrane sheets;
• ideal tolerance to climate change, weather conditions, temperature, humidity;
• increased vapor permeability, which promotes the evaporation of moisture accumulated in the under-roof space;
• many color options;
• fire properties;
• the ability to maintain its original properties and appearance for a long period;
• PVC membrane is an absolutely environmentally friendly material, which is confirmed by relevant certificates;
• the installation process is mechanized, so it will not take much time;
• operating rules allow for the installation of various architectural additions directly on top of the PVC membrane roof itself;
• single-layer installation will save your money;
• ease of maintenance and repair.

Membrane fabric

Membrane fabric has been known to the textile industry for a long time. Shoes and clothing are made from this material: adults and children. Membrane is the basis of membrane fabric, presented in the form of a thin polymer film and having such characteristics as waterproofness and vapor permeability. To produce this material, this film is coated with outer and inner protective layers. Their structure is determined by the membrane itself. This is done in order to preserve all beneficial properties even in the event of damage. In other words, membrane clothing does not get wet when exposed to precipitation in the form of snow or rain, but at the same time, it perfectly allows steam to pass from the body into the external environment. This throughput allows the skin to breathe.

Considering all of the above, we can conclude that ideal winter clothing is made from such fabric. The membrane at the base of the fabric can be:

• with pores;
• without pores;
• combined.

The membranes, which have many micropores, contain Teflon. The dimensions of such pores do not reach the dimensions of even a drop of water, but are larger than a water molecule, which indicates water resistance and the ability to remove sweat.

Membranes that do not have pores are usually made from polyurethane. Their inner layer concentrates all the sweat and fat secretions of the human body and pushes them out.

The structure of the combined membrane implies the presence of two layers: porous and smooth. This fabric has high quality characteristics and will last for many years.

Thanks to these advantages, clothes and shoes made from membrane fabrics and intended for wear in the winter season are durable, but lightweight, and provide excellent protection from frost, moisture, and dust. They are simply irreplaceable for many active types of winter recreation and mountaineering.