Air Permeability and Linting of Woven, Nonwoven, and Coated Fabrics for Cleanroom Garments

Abstract

Linting and air permeability properties of commercially available fabrics used in protective cleanroom garments were studied to determine fabric performance. Fabrics tested varied widely as to air permeability, with coated membrane con structions and two types of nonwovens having the lowest air permeability values and allowing less air passage than wovens and other nonwoven fabrics. Results from linting tests indicated that coated membrane fabrics produced the least lint and nonwovens produced the most. Woven fabrics fell in the mid-range of lint produced. Of the three construction types, coated fabrics were found to be the least linting and the most effective in inhibiting air passage. Cleanroom garment manufacturers should explore the use of other coated constructions as fabrics for protective clothing in cleanrooms. These coated constructions are examples of the latest in fabric coating technology and are similar to the coated membrane fabrics analyzed in this study with respect to limited air passage and low linting properties.