en, Neoprene was used as a substitute for rubber and played a critical role in manufacturing during and after the First World War. Today, this substance is mainly used for wetsuit production and protective gear design.
Neoprene comes from the processing of petroleum. Thus, it is characterized as a petrochemical substance. However, the potential of this compound is close to unlimited linkage. After polymerization, natural chloroprene is turned into synthetic polychloroprene (Neoprene). While the initial and final substances are very similar from a chemical viewpoint, they have different features and properties.
The raw materials of Neoprene are in liquid form, and are filled in barrels then delivered to processing plants. Based on formula, necessary additives will be added in the liquid to promote its physical properties. Afterwards, the solution is baked in an industrial oven and turns hard. The hardened Neoprene “loaf” is cut in slices. Depending on how thick the slices of Neoprene are when processed, manufacturers will work with sheets that vary in thickness from 3mm to 5mm.
The sliced Neoprene will be sent to a clothing manufacturer. The last step of the process involves sewing together the various slices to create the desired product.
*Sewport Support Team. (2021, July 21). What is Neoprene Fabric: Properties, How its Made and Where[Web log post]. Retrieved from https://sewport.com/fabrics-directory/neoprene-fabric
What Are the Benefits of Neoprene Fabric?
Neoprene is an extremely durable and versatile material. Thanks to its manufacturing process, this compound assumes certain features that make it unique.
In fact, Neoprene is waterproof and resistant to a range of environmental and chemical factors, including oxidation, ozone, UV rays, and polluting agents. What’s more is that Neoprene is resistant to drastic temperature changes, which allow it to remain elastic, flexible, and, if worn, comfortable in temperatures ranging from -40 °C to +120 °C.
Some of the main benefits of Neoprene include the following:
- Impermeability or water resistance – made of petroleum, Neoprene is entirely waterproof and moisture resistant. Whether in water or adverse environmental conditions, Neoprene fabric creates an impenetrable barrier against the external elements. This is one of the essential features of Neoprene, but it also comes with its most significant downside: no breathability.
- Provides Insulation – by protecting from environmental elements, chemical compounds, and weather conditions, Neoprene is a highly insulating material used in extreme conditions.
- Elasticity and versatility – as we have seen, Neoprene benefits from a wide range of temperatures in which it remains elastic and flexible. This property – coupled with the fact that this fabric is formed and not woven – makes Neoprene highly versatile.
- Thermo-regulating – as we have seen, Neoprene is insulating, but it can also retain heat. By being able to absorb and retain the heat from the body, Neoprene allows athletes and outdoors people to explore in extreme conditions.
Modern Neoprene also boasts other vital features, including:
- Overs UV and chemical resistance from solvents, petroleum-based fuels, and oils
- It is highly durable
- It is tear and abrasion-resistant
- It can be fire-resistant
These advantages are enough to convince manufacturers to leverage Neoprene. However, this compound comes with downsides that are worth considering:
- It is high in price
- It does not offer protection against esters, ketone, and oxidizing acids
- It cannot be an electrical insulator as it absorbs water over time
- It is not breathable and more suitable for short-term wearing
- Neoprene is harmful to the environment.
Application for Neoprene Fabric
As we have seen, Neoprene comes with a constellation of features that makes it a prime material for many projects. From sportswear to apparel, gear, and equipment, this material has never struggled to find new uses.
And, since it does not degrade like natural rubber, it can safely be used for long-term projects that require a reli