Development of Textile Laminates for Improved Cut Resistance

Mechanical properties of fibres viz. tensile modulus, tenacity, elongation are the key performance indicators of cut resistance besides yarn and fabric structure. p-aramid and UHDPE (Ultra High Density Polyethylene) based high performance fibres are most commonly used for protection against mechanical risks. Specially engineered composite yarns and fabrics would help enhance cut resistance. This paper discusses on the influence textile structure configuration on the performance of cut resistant textiles. A three tier laminate composite was made using knitted Kevlar fabric (p-aramid) as outer surface, Polyurethane foam in the middle and a knitted nylon fabric as skin contact layer. This specially engineered laminate showed a 20% increase in cut resistance force when compared with the Kevlar fabric used for lamination. The combination of breathable PU foam and knitted structure of fabric yielded high stretch with improved breathability and dexterity.