You may never have realized neoprene before. But what is neoprene? Neoprene is the first successful synthetic rubber since 1930. It can be found in tires, wetsuits, hoses and especially useful materials, and today it's making its way to high-end runways. This thick fabric with padding has recently become a favorite among designers, and its structured appearance adds warmth.
What is neoprene made of?
The technical name for this foam synthetic rubber is polychloroprene, which is composed primarily of carbon and hydrogen atoms. Neoprene is made by a chemical reaction using chloroprene, thus leaving behind pieces of polychloroprene. The chips are then melted and mixed with various carbon pigments and foaming agents, and then baked in an oven until they swell. The resulting neoprene is cut into thin slices to form neoprene sheets of the desired thickness.
Often, you will find the neoprene sheet sandwiched between two other pieces of fabric, usually polyester or nylon. Sometimes an elastic fabric is mixed in to increase the flexibility of the neoprene, which is especially useful when used as a garment. The thickness of neoprene fabric can vary depending on its use. Household sewing machines usually have a maximum of 1-2mm, while fabrics of 4mm and above can only be used in industrial machines.
What is neoprene used for?
Neoprene is one of the most versatile man-made fabrics available. This synthetic has a wide range of ultra-ideal properties, so it can be used in everything from medical and space equipment to Avant Garde fashion.
Neoprene's flexibility, stretchability and water resistance make it useful in the medical field, especially in patient care. These same properties also make it an ideal material for diving suits. The thicker the neoprene, the better the insulation, which means that deep-sea diving suits are usually made of 6-7 mm thick neoprene with higher pressure on the rubber. In addition to this, neoprene is resistant to grease, oil, solvents and heat, which means it is ideal for seals, hoses, gaskets, etc. This was particularly useful during the Second World War. In fact, during the war, neoprene scrap wasn't even available to the public because the military claimed it was all about equipment.
Not only does neoprene help you dive under the sea, it also has excellent ozone and weather resistance. Because of these durability properties, the rubber can also be used in applications such as landfill liners and corrosion-resistant coatings.
In recent years, the fit of neoprene has given it a place in the fashion world. Back in 2014, it was even hailed as the "material of the summer" by fashion magazine "Elle. In addition to being used for dresses, pants, skirts and tops, neoprene's scratch and weather resistance means it's ideal for cold-weather coats. Lining can also be added to shoes, laptops and ipad cases to provide additional comfort and security.
Post time: Nov-01-2022