Technical fabrics have become one of the pillars of the European textile industry. They offer a functional response to specific technical requirements such as conductivity, filtration, or fire resistance. Their particular qualities mean that they are in high demand for both the staff and the operations of a range of industries. Let us focus on technical fabrics for the healthcare sector, and consider the main types and applications of technical fabrics.
The importance of medical technical fabrics
Healthcare is a sensitive sector that requires very specific care to maintain the characteristics and properties of the environment in terms of hygiene, safety, and cleanliness – a legal requirement. Different fabrics can be applied to this market, and fulfill different essential functions, for example:
- To prevent light from entering a room
- Antibacterial protection
- Fire resistance
- UV protection
- Atoxicity
- Impermeability
- Breathability
Let’s analyze in more depth some of the functions that technical fabrics can fulfill in the healthcare sector
Uses and applications of technical fabrics in the healthcare sector
As each of the medical technical fabrics fulfill a different function, they can be used and applied in many situations. These fabrics have specific characteristics that differ from normal fabrics, making them suitable for use in:
- Curtains, blinds, sun protection textiles and screens, such as those used to separate different environments.
- Waterproof and/or breathable protective sheets and covers.
- Medical uniforms. In this case, antibacterial fabrics are used, as they are easy to wash and quick to dry, usually combined with short sleeves or sleeves that roll up easily, on uniforms that are waterproof and, in some cases, disposable.
- Fabrics for stretchers.
- Cloths or sponges for washing patients or cleaning surfaces.
There are many areas of a hospital where medical technical fabrics can be used to guarantee the cleanliness and safety of both the environment and the patients.
What types of medical technical fabrics exist?
There are various types of technical fabrics that can be used in the healthcare sector. Here are some of our most sought after and best-rated products:
Lona Uri FR
This is a light but resistant polyester fabric which is both fire retardant and waterproof. It is mainly used for garments and accessories in the orthopaedic sector, for example, in wheelchair seats, orthopaedic boots, and even insoles. Find out more about the Lona Uri FR.
EVA 300
This film is made from Ethyl Vinyl Acetate, a thermoplastic polymer that is totally ecological and very light. It is a light material that is used for the childcare sector, and as a waterproofing agent in various types of footwear. It is a non-toxic material that has applications in the food, medical, and orthopaedic industries. It is a good alternative to PVC.
Some of its characteristics include: lightness, flexibility, resistance to abrasion, impermeability, resistance to fats and chemical agents, and its anti-fungal and antibacterial properties. It is used in all activities, garments, or products that have direct contact with the skin. See data sheet for EVA 300.
Opacite®
This is Expafol’s brand for blockout membranes. Its main characteristic is 100% absorption sunlight. This creates dark spaces in operating rooms and theatres, where it is required. It can also be fireproof, a light insulator, and a thermal insulator. See the data sheet.
TPU 300
This fabric has a polyester base and is part of the group of aromatic polyurethanes. It is characterized by its great elasticity and lightness, and high resistance to abrasion and salt water. It is waterproof and antibacterial, high-frequency weldable, recyclable, and prevents damage from chemical agents, fats, or oils.
It is used for workplace protection, including uniforms, footwear, and other types of medical and food supplies. It is anti-allergic, breathable, and ecological, and is available in a wide range of colours such as orange, blue, white, or black. See more about TPU 300.
These are just some of the examples of the medical technical fabrics that we have available at Expafol, but many others are used for patient care, such as soft and toxic-free sheets or covers, ideal for covering children’s mattresses.
These fabrics ensure that a healthy and pristine environment can be maintained in one of the most sensitive sectors. Discover all the technical fabrics available for the healthcare and hospital sector or contact us for advice.