6 Process Techniques for Engineering High-Performance Materials
process conditions, Gore created an insulating fabric that is both breathable
and water repellant. The structure of the resulting Gore-Tex fabric cannot be
duplicated with traditional weaving techniques.
The polymer itself is hydrophobic, creating an excellent barrier to liquid
water, which cannot pass through the tiny pores because of surface tension.
However, water vapor can permeate through the open network of bers.
This unique microstructure creates a strong, waterproof matrix that com-
bines insulation and breathability. Outside the optimal process window, the
ber matrix will tear out during the stretching process or will not have the
desired insulating properties. Gore’