What is a membrane? Membrane fabric is a material for clothing: characteristics and description A brief educational program on labeling fabrics with heat-saving properties.

The characteristics of clothing for active sports are reminiscent of a Chinese letter. What is "membrane", "fleece" and "gore-tex"? Why do you need thermal underwear? How do "moisture-proof" and breathable properties of things combine? "SE Extreme" reveals the secrets of snow clothing!

Lucky us, modern little men! We snowboard, ski, climb, eco-tour, trek and God knows what else, and there are special clothes for all this. These are not only jackets and pants, but also underwear, socks and shoes, the development of which takes into account the characteristics of a particular type of activity. We have at our disposal membranes, and down jackets, and impregnations, and anatomical suspension brackets of backpacks - there is just nothing. In general, everything is fine with us, we even complain sometimes: “I want not a two-layer, but a three-layer jacket, and so that with pockets!”

If you look back and think about how people used to cope with the vagaries of nature, how they walked, got wet in the rain and snow, carrying their wealth in grandfather's style backpacks, it becomes somehow uncomfortable. Although some don't remember, there was nothing but canvas jackets, quilted jackets, sweaters and woolen socks. But, despite all the inconveniences, people always went to the mountains, conquered the peaks, skied. They had one wisdom: the colder it is, the more you need to put on yourself. These were strong people, hardy and unassuming.

But then they got tired of it, and progress began in the production of fabrics suitable for active outdoor use. The development of special materials was in full swing: people began to puzzle over how to make the fabric as light and efficient as possible, so that it would not get wet, not blown, so that it would warm and remove moisture from the body.

Among the first to succeed were Wilbert and Genevieve Gore, who founded the Gore Company (W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc.) in 1958. Wilbert (Bill) Gore worked for DuPont for 17 years, but then life took a different path, and that same Gore private enterprise was born. Over the next 12 years, the company has achieved almost worldwide recognition and has taken a leading position in the market. Thus began the history of the clothing membrane.

WHAT IS THE MEMBRANE EATED WITH?

So, let's try to figure out what a membrane (membrane tissue) is and what it is eaten with. Technically, a membrane is something like a film of a special structure, and membrane tissue is a matter in the structure of which this very special film is present. There is a world classification that allows you to divide all membrane tissues into several types.

By structure, the membrane can be non-porous, porous and combined.

Poreless membranes They work according to the following principle: body vapors enter the inner part of the membrane, settle on it and, through active diffusion, quickly move to the outside. The advantage of non-porous membranes is that they are durable, do not require careful maintenance, and work properly in a wide temperature range. Such membranes are usually used in expensive and functional products. What are its shortcomings? At first it may seem that the clothes get wet, but these are just the same fumes that accumulate on the inside of the thing. That is, non-porous membranes begin to breathe more slowly, however, when they “open up”, they sometimes surpass porous ones in terms of breathing properties.

Pore ​​membranes they work according to a different principle: water drops that fall on the membrane tissue from the outside cannot pass through the pores of the membrane inside, since these pores are too small. Accordingly, the outside of the fabric does not get wet.

On the other hand, the vapor molecules formed during the release of sweat are freely removed from the inside of the membrane tissue. As a result, we get the waterproofness of the membrane fabric on the outside of the product and the breathable (steam-removing) properties from the inside. The advantage of pore membranes is that they begin to breathe "quickly": they remove vapors as soon as you start to sweat. What are the disadvantages? This membrane “dies” quite quickly, that is, it loses its properties. In case of improper washing (especially with spinning!) the pores of the membrane are clogged, which greatly reduces the breathing properties - the jacket may begin to “leak”. This disadvantage can manifest itself if you are not a particular fan of taking care of your things.

Membrane combination: The fabric of the upper is covered with a porous membrane on the inside, and on top of the porous membrane there is another coating: a non-porous polyurethane membrane film. This fabric combines all the advantages of porous and non-porous membranes, while avoiding their disadvantages, a kind of "two in one". But high technology comes at a high price. It is for this reason that very few companies use this membrane in their products.

In addition to the above division, there is a difference in the material design itself. By design, membrane tissues are divided into two-layer, three-layer and so-called “two-and-a-half” layers. These words are probably familiar to snowboarders and skiers, as well as people who spend enough time in the mountains.

Double layer fabric- this is a fabric on which a membrane is applied in a special way from the wrong side (usually white, but it can be transparent or with some other dye). In products, this fabric is always used with a lining, because it provides proper protection of the membrane from clogging and mechanical damage.

Three layer fabric looks like a fabric with a fine mesh from the inside. In fact, this is a top fabric plus a membrane, plus a knitted mesh, glued into one structure using a special lamination technology. The knitted mesh on the inside protects the membrane from both mechanical damage and clogging. The most important thing: in three-layer products, the use of a lining disappears - there is only one “rag” in which all three components are assembled. As a result, we have: a mega-light fabric that does not restrict movement, a small volume of the product and maximum functionality. The combination of these excellent qualities explains the high cost of products made of three-layer fabric.

"Two-and-a-half"-layer membrane fabric is a novelty in the market of modern clothes. It doesn’t sound very Russian, but it accurately conveys the meaning of technology. As a rule, this is an ordinary two-layer membrane fabric, covered from the inside with a kind of protective coating (foamed protective coating in the form of pimples, just knitted pimples, etc.), designed to perform the function of the third layer, i.e. membrane protection. Such jackets are as light as possible - they do not need a lining, and the weight of the protection is much less than that of three-layer materials. But, as you might guess, products made from this fabric are by no means cheap.

By the way, the already mentioned GoreTex, from which we started the discussion of the topic, is just a patented name for a membrane of a certain structure. For a long time, the company was practically a monopolist in the extreme clothing market, but now many respected and well-known companies produce no less respected membrane fabrics. For example, Toray (Japan) (Dermizax, Entrant HB), Event (USA, made in Japan), Unitika (Japan). These are leaders in the field of technologies for the production of membrane fabrics, which are used in their production by the world's leading brands that produce clothing and footwear for outdoor activities and sports.

There are two other important parameters that you need to pay attention to when buying pants and jackets for outdoor activities - these are waterproofness and breathable properties of fabrics.

Waterproof Roughly speaking, this is the pressure of the water column that this fabric can withstand. A piece of fabric is placed in a special machine, stretched, and a column of pressurized water is directed at it. The pressure is gradually increased and they watch at what point drops appear on the back of the cloth.

Indicators: 20.000 means that the fabric does not get wet in stormy conditions (strong wind, slanting heavy rain, snow); 10.000 - the fabric can withstand heavy rain; around 5,000 light rain and snow; around 3000 - drizzling rain and wet light snow.

Breathability depend on the amount of steam that the fabric passes over a certain period of time (now the unit of measurement is “X grams per square meter of fabric in 24 hours”). A piece of fabric is also placed in a special machine, where evaporation is simulated, and after 24 hours, they look at how much moisture the fabric has “taken away”. That is, the larger the number, the more moisture is removed. For example, in expensive quality products, water resistance is usually at least 20,000 mm of water column, and breathability is at least 8,000 g/sq. m./day. Mid-level membrane typically has a specification of 8.000mm/5.000g/sq. m/day or so.

The base level is usually 3000mm/3000gsm. m / day, although in products made from this type of fabric, insufficiently high membrane characteristics can be well combined with the presence of a large number of ventilation holes that allow you to control the temperature inside the product.

To provide additional protection from external moisture, there is such a thing as DWR coating. If you pour a little water on a fabric treated with DWR, then the droplets do not absorb, but lie on the fabric, rolling into balls! This is the result of the work of DWR (Durable Water Repellence) - a coating that does not allow water to pass even through the top layer of the fabric (that is, to be absorbed into it). DWR, however, is not a durable thing (it is applied during the production of clothes) and disappears over time (washed off). So in the future, during operation and contact with water, wet spots may appear on the fabric. This does not mean at all that the product gets wet, since the membrane will not let water through anyway, but some discomfort may be present. The resulting layer of water on top will not allow the membrane to work, no matter how “cool” it is. In this case, the penetration of water into the product is possible in the porous membranes. How to deal with it? To avoid DWR dying, specially designed products with this very DWR coating (NIKWAX for example), which are sold in stores selling extreme clothing, will help. If, after washing (or more often), for example, NIKWAX or another similar agent is applied to the fabric, then the product will definitely last longer than if this is not done.

After such an abundance of information, the question is logical: “But how to take care of membrane clothing?” Let's say right away that it is necessary to wash membrane things, but not in the same way as ordinary ones. Do not use washing powders with bleach and other aggressive substances - they clog and destroy pores. You can not use machine spinning - the membrane deteriorates from this, as spinning violates its fine structure. Do not dry clean or use bleach. Do not iron - the synthetic fabric of the top will melt, and the membrane will also be damaged! You can wash clothes by hand with special detergents for washing membrane fabrics (NIKWAX again); if the product is not too dirty, you can wash it with ordinary soap, and rub the especially dirty places with a brush. Can be left to dry on a string. DWR can be applied to a dry product from a spray can. I would like to note that DWR impregnation should only be applied to clean items, since when impregnating dirty material, you will not achieve a water-repellent effect. Detergents must have an inscription on the packaging - "allowed for membrane fabrics"! That's all the main secrets.

All of the above by and large refers to the top layer of clothing. It's time to say a few words about the middle, or bottom, layer, and about what materials, fabrics and tricky terms we may encounter when choosing such products.

Let's start with fleece. Fleece- this is a large group of fabrics that are made as follows: knots are tied on a sufficiently strong woven base by machine, then another machine breaks them, and a pile is obtained, which is tied to the base. It must be admitted that many people often get confused in terms of "fleece" and Polartec. Dispel your doubts: Polartec is just a fleece brand. That is, high quality fleece from Malden Mills is called Polartec. That's all wisdom.

Why is fleece recommended for active sports? Between the pile (from which, in fact, the fleece is made), a layer of air is preserved, which, as you know, is the best thermal insulator. In addition, unlike natural fabrics (such as cotton), a good fleece does not accumulate moisture, but provides the necessary ventilation in case of overheating and removes condensate to the outside. This is one of the main reasons why a “fleece” (fleece jacket) is recommended for active skiing, especially in the mountains - good fleece means warmth, dryness and comfort. But note: fleece will work in this way only if you put on thermal underwear under it, and not your favorite cotton T-shirt, which, for all its beauty, unfortunately, does not remove moisture and immediately gets wet.

Fleeces also come in membrane and non-membrane. With non-membrane, everything is clear - there is no membrane in the structure of the tissue. Membrane fleece consists, as it were, of three layers, "glued" into one.

Membrane fleece

1. Soft shell. Structure: top - durable fabric that does not absorb moisture and is resistant to wear; the middle layer is the membrane; bottom - fleece. In some cases, the membrane may be absent in the structure of the fabric, since in fleece fabrics it is by no means the main component. Windproofness is achieved through special tight weaving.

2. Windbloc(wind protection). Structure: the top layer is a treated fleece fabric (anti-piling, DWR), the middle layer is a membrane (sometimes foam is used instead of a membrane), the bottom layer is a pile fleece that collects moisture and removes it from the body.

Non-membrane fleece

1. Non-membrane Softshell- this is essentially a "sandwich", two glued types of fabric. The upper provides abrasion and tear resistance, while the one closer to the body warms and wicks away perspiration by quickly absorbing.

2. Polartec Thermal Pro- it is a warm, lightweight, moisture-repellent material, consists of two layers. The abrasion-resistant outer shell keeps out wind and light rain, while the soft fleecy inner layer provides maximum insulation. At the same time, moisture vapor from the body is freely removed to the outside. Thermal Pro made of polyester fibers is very durable and dries quickly. Unlike many fleecy fabrics, the material retains its heat-insulating properties and does not "roll" after repeated washes.

3. Polartec WindPro- A material with a denser structure than Thermal Pro, with increased wind protection characteristics.

4. Polartec 200 and similar quality fleece from other manufacturers- soft and almost weightless material. It has excellent thermal insulation properties. Unlike natural fabrics, it does not accumulate, but removes excess moisture from the body. In terms of thermal properties per gram of material, Polartec 200 is twice that of sheep's wool and more than three times that of cotton.

Having comprehended all of the above, we can distinguish the main properties of high-quality fleece:

• Long service life (retains its heat-insulating properties for a long time).
• Thanks to a special anti-pilling coating, the pile does not roll into hated spools even after repeated washes.
• Fleece does not wrinkle, has a pleasant to the touch structure.

Fleece, like outerwear (for example, for skiing), also requires special care. It can (and should!) be washed by hand or in a washing machine. If by hand, then with ordinary soap in warm water at a temperature not exceeding 40 degrees. If in the machine, then at the same temperature, using the “gentle wash for synthetic fabrics” mode. Fleece clothing will last longer if washed with special gentle detergents and then rinsed in a solution that restores water repellency (for example, Nikwax Polar Proof). Fleece should not be ironed and dried in a washing machine or on a battery. Hang on a string or on a hanger - clothes will dry and keep a decent look.

How can all of the above be applied in everyday life and why is all this needed? If you are a snowboarder and skier, you probably know that skiing conditions in the mountains and in the city are always different. The "cabbage" version of clothing is considered a classic. First layer: thermal underwear (special tight-fitting sweatshirts and sweatpants) + ski socks (rather than ordinary woolen ones). The second layer is fleece, the third is outerwear (pants-jacket or overalls) plus a hat / helmet, mittens / gloves. Depending on the weather, the set may vary. The point is that all sweat removal technologies work only together, and if you put on a sweater and your favorite T-shirt under a membrane jacket, then there will be no sense in the membrane. And when everything is right, then everyone is dry and comfortable. What else does a person need?

And a little about money: as we said, good quality requires a good investment. If you are not ready to spend a serious amount on clothes right away, start with less - buy things in parts. For example, at the beginning of the season, buy thermal underwear, then fleece, and after that, “splurge” on membrane things. Dress appropriately and don't be cold!

What other inscriptions can be found on the label? Rip stop- this is the name of the method of weaving fabric, which in its structure resembles a grid or honeycomb. That is, both thin and thick threads are used in this texture, which makes it possible to produce a durable and at the same time lightweight material. Twill weaving- It is a smooth, pleasant to the touch material with excellent strength characteristics. Resist Techno Soft Shell- material belonging to the class of membrane fleece. The latest in high-tech fabrics from the Softshell series, Resist Techno Soft Shell is a completely new material that provides comfort during skiing and active sports, perfectly retains heat. In addition, this fleece, in fact, works like thermal underwear - it actively removes evaporation during intensive loads and retains heat. Fabric windbloc- combines the heat-insulating and "breathing" properties of fleece and the wind and moisture resistance of the outer layer. Membrane outer surface blocks wind; the inner layer of the fabric removes excess moisture.

The development of innovative technologies has also affected fabrics, so the question of what a membrane is in clothing and what it is intended for is becoming increasingly relevant. It is one of the multifunctional canvases of the modern range. This material is semi-permeable, presented in the form of a film with a special structure.

Membrane clothing and shoes are able to repel moisture from the outside and evaporate it from the inside. From below, such a material is quite soft, from above it is harder, as it is protective and resistant to wear. The middle layer is the membrane and the protective material.

Caring parents often ask questions about the membrane in clothes for children: what is it, is it dangerous and is it worth buying it? The answers to all these questions can be found in our article. This material is actively used to create various elements of both children's and adult clothing, so this information will certainly be useful to everyone.

Properties

Knowing that the membrane in clothing is a synthetic material, many people want to know its properties. They will help determine its purpose and necessity for modern society. The membrane structure is characterized by:

1. Waterproof. This parameter is represented in digital form. It denotes the water pressure that matter can withstand. When choosing a particular product, be sure to pay attention to this. Clothes and shoes marked 3000 can withstand only light rain, material 10000 is able to overcome heavy rain, but the indicator 20000 guarantees the waterproofness of the product even in stormy conditions.
2. Wind protection. Regardless of the waterproof rating, any item of clothing will protect its wearer from the wind. Membrane products will never let people shudder.
3. Vapor release. The third criterion is also of particular importance and is also presented in number format. It indicates the amount of steam in a certain area (g / m 2), which comes out during the day. The quality of the material depends on this criterion - the higher it is, the better the material.

Reviews about membrane clothing are always positive. This is largely due to its capabilities described above. It is thanks to them that clothes and shoes made of such fabric are popular in different countries among people of all ages.

Varieties

Both for adults and children, winter membrane clothing is presented in various variations. Today there are the following types of matter:

1. Double layer. They are produced using a unique technology, the essence of which is that the membrane is glued to the inside of ordinary matter, and on top of it there is a reliable protective lining.
2. Three-layer. These options are the basis of the membrane itself and the knitted mesh. The layers are bonded together by lamination. The lining in this case acts as a grid. This technology makes it possible to reduce the weight of the finished product.
3. Double layer with knitted lining. The design of this material is quite similar to the previous one. The only difference is that the regular lining has been replaced with foam jersey. Clothing of this type has even less weight, but this does not change its properties in any way.

Compound

It is better to understand what a membrane is in clothes, its composition will help. Modern fabrics are made from such materials:

1. Polyester. This element can keep its shape perfectly. It is quite pleasant to the body. Its consumers love it for its long service life and high strength.
2. Tencel. Everyone knows this material due to its softness and ability to absorb moisture. It is obtained from the eucalyptus tree.
3. Cotton. In membrane clothing, it is an important element. This material is soft to the touch, it absorbs all the moisture and retains heat.
4. Bamboo. Such a canvas is distinguished by its high strength, as well as hypoallergenicity. Bamboo is able to retain the sun's rays and eliminate unpleasant odors.
5. Teflon. This matter has micropores on the outside. She doesn't let the water through. The only drawback of Teflon is the possibility of clogging pores, which disrupts the process of moisture evaporation.
6. Polyurethane. In this case, there are no pores on the surface, but the matter still does not let moisture through. All liquid penetrating inside accumulates from the inside, and then evaporates. Among the disadvantages is the fact that it will take a long time to eliminate water.
7. Combined matter. In the inner part, a foam rubber membrane is provided, on top of which there is a protective layer that prevents the pores from clogging. The combined material has all the advantages of Teflon and polyurethane.

It is due to these components that all adult and children's upper membrane clothing can be safely used in inclement weather. The material will keep you warm and dry in all conditions.

Usage

Outer membrane clothing is now made for both adults and children. As a rule, these are overalls, for the creation of which high-quality nylon or dense polyester is used. In addition, this matter has shown itself well in sewing moisture-resistant suits.

Athletes who go to competitions outside their country in the winter or autumn season know that the membrane in clothing is the best option for them. To date, the production of costumes for such people is carried out by:

• Transactive;
• Porelle;
• Ultimex;
• Cyclone.

At the same time, the fabric is in the greatest demand in the following areas:

• mountaineering;
• mountain and ski tourism;
• trips;
• fishing;
• leisure;
• hunting;
• any winter sports.

Price

After learning what a membrane is in clothes, many people want to buy it. The average cost of matter is 400 rubles per meter. But this amount is determined not only by the type of material, but also by its manufacturer, so some goods can cost buyers 3-4 times more.

On this occasion, there are only positive reviews about the membrane (clothes) for children and adults. For some, such a price may indeed seem high, but in fact, the quality and capabilities of the product justify it. Therefore, buyers have no complaints about the clothes and the fabric itself.

Advantages and disadvantages

Membrane sportswear has certain features that you need to know about before buying it. Like any material, the membrane has its advantages and disadvantages, for which it can please buyers or, conversely, repel them.

Among the positive qualities, the following points can be distinguished:

• lightness and comfort (both children's and adult costumes allow a person to move freely without constraining him or limiting him in this);
• no need for an additional layer of warm clothes (this nuance is especially important for small children, since with several sweaters they always feel discomfort);
• ease of washing and cleaning (membrane fabric is quickly cleaned of any contaminants and does not require the purchase of any special expensive products).

The disadvantages include:

• fragility (this nuance depends on the category of fabric);
• the need for the right choice of the bottom layer (this will take a lot of time if there were no ideas about clothes initially).

Membrane fabric is not intended for heating, but it perfectly reduces the sweating of its owner and does not allow the body to cool. It is best for sedentary children to purchase winter suits with a special insulating lining. At the same time, it is worth paying attention to the fact that membrane clothing is not entirely suitable for daily wear, since its purpose is only some of the situations already described above (mountaineering, mountain holidays, tourism, and so on).

What to wear under these clothes

Having figured out what a membrane is in clothes, you should decide on the wardrobe items that need to be worn under it. In the winter season, be sure to follow the correct principle of selecting layers. It will help protect the body from overheating and a sharp reaction to temperature changes. At the same time, it must be remembered that the membrane material breathes well, due to which sweating is completely eliminated.

Most often, people dress in three layers:

• internal (underwear);
• medium (ordinary attire - jacket, trousers);
• upper (the winter membrane suit itself, protecting from the wind).

Wash

Membrane children's winter clothing requires proper care to maintain its durability. It is not recommended to wash it with detergent, as it will simply clog the pores and they will not let in fresh air. The list of these products includes various conditioners, conditioners, powders, and so on.

You can wash clothes with laundry or liquid soap. During the washing period, the matter remains safe and sound, but impurities can remain in the pores. The properties of the membrane will not change if it is cleaned in this way. But even so, it is better to wear outerwear carefully, avoiding strong stains.

Cleaning things from dirt with a washing machine is strictly prohibited. It does not have a very good effect on the coating, because its work provides for soaking and the subsequent spin mode. Hand washing is the best way to deal with soiling of membrane clothing. The ideal water temperature for this would be 30-40 degrees.

Before starting the procedure, you need to connect the sleeves of the jacket and fasten all the rivets and fasteners located on it. After washing, the thing should not be wrung out, since to speed up its drying it will be enough just to blot the fabric with an absorbent cloth. It should be remembered that the drying process must be carried out on a horizontal surface.

special care

Membrane children's clothing for the winter is by no means ironed after washing. This does not depend on the season, since a thing at any time at elevated temperatures can deteriorate externally. You can restore the water-repellent properties of the membrane using a special spray based on fluorine. Thanks to this tool, a reliable film is formed on the surface of the clothes, which will protect and reduce the negative effects of ultraviolet rays.

Storage

On days when membrane clothing is not in use, it must be stored on a hanger. It must always be in an upright position. To provide it with protection from clogging of the porous structure, it is required to put a polyethylene cover on top. You also need to remember that such clothes should not be stored crumpled and wet. Therefore, before sending things to the closet, they need to be thoroughly washed in accordance with the rules described above and dried.

Manufacturers

Today, Gore-TeX is very popular. She is engaged in the production of membrane clothing. Initially, the brand produced equipment designed for astronauts, but a little later it offered high-quality kits for mountain tourists, skiers and mountaineers.

By the criterion of quality, you can compare the products of Triple-Point, ULTREX, Sympatex. These products are distinguished by solid material, which is supplied in various modifications. Their cost, of course, is high, but it is consistent with the capabilities of the products.

Ceplex, Fine-Tex membrane items are available for many consumers. They are designed for only two seasons, but only if they are actively used. After this period, the material gradually begins to let moisture through, which will no longer be possible to fix.

When choosing one or another membrane product, be sure to pay attention to the information about gluing the seams. It is indicated on each item of clothing. In most products, absolutely all seams are glued, but there may also be those where only the main ones are properly processed. For people who are engaged in active sports, it is best to choose clothes where all seams will be securely reinforced.

Shoes

Special membrane shoes are intended only for professional athletes and people who prefer outdoor activities outside the city. But despite this, in modern times it is used in everyday life. Warm, fairly light in weight and moisture resistant shoes are an excellent option not only for the rainy off-season, but also for the harsh winter. Decent air circulation contributes to maintaining a comfortable microclimate inside, as well as maintaining the optimal temperature of the feet for a long time.

A distinctive feature of membrane footwear, as well as clothing, is the presence in it of a high-tech polymer material with small pores. It is quite tightly fixed between the upper padding and the inner lining. The minimum size of the holes in this intermediate layer does not let moisture in and does an excellent job of removing natural fumes. From this we can conclude that membrane shoes are good air circulation and maintaining optimal dryness and warmth of the feet in all weather conditions.

How to keep shoes in good condition

Any footwear, including membrane ones, requires proper care. It will help to maintain its beautiful appearance and thermoregulating properties, as well as extend its service life. This wardrobe item needs to be dried only at room temperature, but in no case should heating appliances be used, as they will quickly violate the integrity of the structure. In this case, it is best to remove the insole first.

As soon as necessary, shoes should be cleaned of dust and dirt. If the surface is made of leather, then it is better to wipe it with a soft cloth, a special brush is more suitable for nubuck, but you can take a sponge to clean textiles. Too heavily soiled shoes can be washed with a soapy solution or some kind of water-based product, but without fats and oils in the composition.

Regularly apply compounds to shoes that will repel moisture. They will protect the material and increase the service life, while maintaining the original appearance.

The word membrane has a number of meanings, but in a general sense, the term means a thin flexible septum, membrane or plate that can perform various functions. In this article we will tell you what a membrane is from the point of view of biology and technology.

Membrane in biology

Membrane (or cell membrane) is an elastic molecular structure whose role is to protect the cell from the environment. The cell membrane ensures its integrity, and is also responsible for the exchange processes between the environment and the cell.

The cell membrane consists of proteins and lipids and has a thickness of about 7 nm. Each "brick" of the membrane is responsible for a specific function of a given cellular organ. Lipids in the membrane are represented by three types - phospholipids, glycolipids and cholesterol.

Phospholipids and glycolipids form hydrophobic and hydrophilic sections (hydrophobic sections are directed inside the cell, and hydrophilic sections are directed outward), which regulate the exchange of water and similar molecules between the cell and the environment. Cholesterol stiffens the membrane.

The proteins that make up the membrane can perform many functions, for example, there are transporter proteins that help the necessary substances get into the cell.

Membrane in engineering

The safety membrane is part of the membrane safety device, the task of which is to ensure the necessary discharge of the gas-vapor mixture at a certain pressure. Such devices are used as fuses for process equipment, pipelines, etc.

In the presence of dangerous overloads, the membrane breaks, providing the necessary "discharge", while maintaining the integrity of an expensive and complex technical system.

Look for more interesting concepts in the section.

Modern manufacturers, possessing innovative technologies, are able to offer the latest developments in membrane materials that are used in a wide variety of areas of human activity. What is membrane clothing? This is a high-tech material, which, due to its qualities, is used for sewing sports, casual and outdoor clothing. The clothing industry offers clothes not only for adults, but also for children.

The main trends in the development of the modern economy include the improvement of product quality. This is achieved through the introduction of innovative methods in production. Today, clothing made of fabric with a membrane coating is very popular. The range of products made from this material is very large.

It is made from:

• Membrane clothing and footwear for people involved in active sports, tourism;
• Special clothing for firefighters and medical workers;
• Uniform for military personnel and kits for winter fishing.

Membrane material appeared relatively recently. Over the past 10 years, he has gained worldwide fame. Items made from this material must meet the requirements: to show protective properties during the period of atmospheric influences and to provide a comfortable feeling in the underwear space. In case of heavy load, the material is able to remove excess moisture and heat. To obtain a fabric with a thickness of 10-30 microns, extrusion methods, coagulation or thermal biaxial stretching are used.

To connect the membrane to the fabric, polyurethane is used for adhesion, which is coated with an atmospheric-active film. It passes along with the web through the pressure rollers of the calender, which allows the two materials to be glued together.

When designing and creating professional membrane clothing for children and adults in winter, designers try to cope with a multifaceted and complex task, to combine all the characteristics of the material in the product:

• Aesthetic appearance;
• Comfort fit;
• Insertion of reflective elements with optical recognition into children's membrane clothing;
• Clothing for tourism made of membrane material should have a long service life;
• High-quality atmospheric laminates can affect the membrane, which, in turn, affects the comfortable well-being of people in the winter.

How to distinguish the material? Winter clothing has common key indicators:

1. Water resistance - this indicator is characterized by the height of the water level and the ability of the membrane to withstand it without letting it inside. Moisture content measurement is calculated in millimeters or other units such as PSI (POUND PER SGUARE INCH). This measurement means weight in pounds per inch². Studies have shown that if the material has a PSI value of more than 25 units, then the product will be waterproof. With a material index of 1-24 PSI, it is considered that the product has a low resistance to moisture. But this indicator is enough for people who are not involved in extreme sports. Therefore, there is no need to overpay for extra layers of clothing. All layers must be glued so that moisture does not penetrate through them into the product. If the label says "all seams are sealed" ─ this means that the seams of the suit for the winter are completely taped. And if there is an inscription “critical seam sealing” on the label, it means that only the main seams are glued in the kit, and in heavy rain the product may get wet over time;
2. Moisture permeability - if the definition of this characteristic is theoretically clear, then the digital indicators do not say anything to many consumers. This can be used by an unscrupulous manufacturer. He sometimes indicates indicators of clothing for children made of membrane material, which absolutely do not correspond to the technical characteristics of the material, which leads to disastrous results during testing.

Testing is based on measuring the amount of liquid in grams that can evaporate per day in m² (g / m² / 24 h) ─ this is the MVTR indicator moisture vapor transmission rate ─ moisture vapor transmission rate. These tests are carried out by special laboratories. The main thing that consumers should remember is that the MVTR B2 marking for the test is considered universal. The membrane is a fragile and thin material. The sheet version is applied to the final product. If the membrane is applied in liquid form, then it is applied to the base material and forms a membrane coating, which received the second name ─ laminate.

The main types of membrane material:

• 2l - two-layer view is marked with the value 2L. The sheet material is applied to the fabric. In a two-layer product, the advantage is economical weight, high moisture permeability. The product is duplicated by an inner lining, which is made of mesh. You can use two-layer clothing during sports, as well as for everyday use;
• 5l - two and a half layers. It consists of two layers, between which there is an additional protective layer of non-woven material. Ski clothing made from this brand of material is light and compact. The membrane is protected by the outer layer, on which there are rubber "pimples" with a diameter of less than 1 mm. The membrane does not come into contact with clothing and protects it from various damages. This does not prevent the product from retaining all the properties of the three-layer Gore-Tex material and gaining weight. For example, Millet's Paclite jacket weighs only 470g;
• 3l - three-layer type. In this design, the membrane is protected by fabric on both sides. All products are highly durable. It can be used for sports and special kits designed for use in extreme conditions.

clothing features

Clothing made of the membrane does not get wet, reliably protects against gusty winds, cold weather, perfectly “breathes”, thereby creating comfortable conditions for wearing.

For children

An excellent option for outerwear in the cold season is membrane children's clothing. When the baby takes his first steps in winter, he is not very comfortable walking in bulky fur overalls. Heavy sets hamper movement, so they try to buy light, functional, comfortable membrane winter clothes for children. High-quality outerwear can be combined with properly selected underwear, which can provide the baby with comfortable, warm and dry wearing in any bad weather ─ snowy winter down to -20 ° C or rainy autumn day. In addition, the membrane fabric is endowed with dirt-repellent qualities. Almost all children's clothing is different:

• wear resistance;
• Persistent colors;
• Decor with reflective inserts.

For the above properties, there is a corresponding marking on the label. For example, an indicator of 3000-15000 mm of water column indicates the intensity of rain, at which the coating will begin to let moisture through. Laboratory studies show that with an indicator of 4 thousand mm of water, children's things do not let moisture through and the child always remains warm and dry.

Brands that produce membrane clothing and shoes for children:

• Reima - for its products, the company uses high quality insulation that provides warmth in severe frosts. Parents from the whole variety of styles and colors can choose the best design for their baby;
• Ketch is a newly created Swedish company that has already become popular in the market. Buyers claim that under the clothes of this company there is no need to wear other warm clothes;
• Gore-Tex is an American company that has developed durable, breathable footwear. If the label says "Gore-Tex", parents can be confident in the quality of the product;
• Sumpa Tex - a German company introduced footwear products without membrane pores. In this model range, moisture is removed from the warm side of the membrane material to the cold side. She is not afraid of dirt, and the reagents do not spoil the appearance of the product.

Top sellers of children's membrane clothing:

• Winter set Reima 513100-4901 Misteli is a model for a girl with a comfortable design. The set consists of a jacket and semi-overalls. It has a waterproof and non-breathable fabric with a dirt-repellent impregnation. The presence of fluffy Comfort + insulation with high elasticity, gives the product volume. The price of the model is 6 thousand rubles;
• Winter jacket for girls Sisarus Reimatec 531300-4190 - a combination of design, quality and practicality will appeal to parents and children. The material is breathable, the hood is removable, the material is dirt-repellent. The price of the model is 8038 rubles;
• Ricosta shoes - a German manufacturer uses only natural and high-tech materials for children's shoes. The price of the model is 2850 rubles;
• Boots Kotofey 454968-42 - the model is decorated with snowflakes, has two Velcro fasteners. Phylon material is used for the sole. Fur serves as an internal insulation. The price of the model is 2500 rubles;
• Ketch set (art. 090254-090255) - the model consists of a jacket and overalls. Designed for t from + 6˚ to - 28˚С. The price of the kit is up to 4000 rubles.

For adults

Today, membrane clothing for women and men is used not only for hiking, outdoor activities and skiing in ski resorts. You can wear it in ordinary city life. Products allow you not to freeze at a temperature of -15-20˚С and not to sweat in a warm, closed room. Material properties will be respected in case of multi-layering.

Do not wear clothes that absorb moisture or that do not “breathe” well. Since 1959, the American company W. L. Gore & Associates began experimenting with polytetrafluoroethylene for the manufacture of this material, and only in 1976 was a fabric with a water-repellent, windproof, "breathable" effect created.

When creating membrane clothing for hunting, manufacturers use modern fabric, in which there are a large number of micro-holes - up to 1.4 million pieces are located per 1 cm². This porous layer is located between the upper and inner layers. This design is used not only for clothes, but also for adult shoes. The holes are 20,000 times smaller than a drop of water. Moisture is expelled through them in the form of steam. You can winter in membrane clothing, it is lightweight and folds compactly.

Companies that manufacture membrane suits:

• Norfin - membrane suits of the Latvian company, light, comfortable, have high water resistance. Warmer for fishing, no clothes for hunting. In the hunting collection, the cost of products reaches $ 300-400;
• Red Fox - a well-known Russian manufacturer has gained popularity in the market due to its quality and affordable prices;
• Dupont - an American manufacturer has not yet become widely known among outerwear manufacturers, but is proud of its underwear products ─ unique socks that not only save heat, "breathe", but also do not let moisture in from the outside. The price of these socks is $25. Use wearable membrane clothing for hunting.

Consider some models of adult membrane clothing:

• Norfin Extreme 2 XXL (309105-XXL) - the model is designed for fishermen, as well as lovers of new technologies use membrane clothing for hunters. Which withstands frost at -32˚С. The straps in the model are adjustable, the waist is tightened with a latch, the knee pads consist of additional soft inserts, a zipper is inserted on the bottom of the semi-overalls. Price 5500 rubles;
• Pea jacket Atax - the model is designed for climbers. The base consists of a double synthetic winterizer with two chest pockets and other additional elements that distribute the necessary load. The membrane coating has a pixel atax color. The knitted collar has a windproof placket. The average price is from 2700 rubles;
• Neve Astra - women's and men's trousers made of Evapora membrane fabric. They are waterproof and keep out the cold. Adjustable throughout the length of the trousers. All seams are taped and have pockets with zippers. The average price is from 2500 rubles;
• Norfin Scandic suit - the model belongs to rain suits. Able to provide a comfortable stay in various weather conditions. The product has many pockets, the bottom of the jacket is pulled together, has a mesh lining and other additional elements. Price 9500 rubles;
• Jacket Armani Women Jacket 281408 - this model is designed for women who go in for skiing. It is windproof and waterproof. Additional high-quality, insulated elements with knitted cuffs allow you to feel comfortable. The price of the jacket is from 39 thousand rubles.

Choice by season

Modern membrane products will help protect against frost or strong winds. In order for clothes to be comfortable and please with warmth, you need to make the right choice. Whatever season clothes are purchased for, you need to consider some rules:

1. It is important to pay attention to product design. The cut should be comfortable and fit the size grid;
2. Winter sets are bought a little loose so that they do not hinder movement and better retain heat;
3. Pay attention to the quality of the seams. It is necessary to exclude uneven lines, raw cuts, protruding threads. This indicates a low quality and a bad reputation of the manufacturer;
4. When choosing winter or demi-season clothing, experts recommend purchasing a 2.5-layer membrane. Since 2-layer is considered short-lived, 3-layer has a significant weight, which will make it difficult for both adults and children to move.

How to wear membrane clothing so that it works correctly, pleases not only with its functionality, but also with its aesthetic appearance? The main thing in operation is layering:

• The first layer is underwear;
• The second layer is insulation;
• The third layer is outerwear (jacket, pants, overalls).

It is undesirable to wear all things made of natural materials, as they tend to absorb moisture. And you need to remember: the membrane works only during the period of active human actions.

In spring and autumn, it is advisable to use thermal underwear. And at -5˚ you need to warm up by wearing a woolen or fleece suit.

Additional functions

• Additional ventilation. Membrane clothing for men has good vapor permeability, but no consumer will refuse additional ventilation of the suit. It can be represented by the presence of "pit-zips" of lightning. Additional ventilation takes place in membrane clothing for hunting in places where there is no direct rain. It can be a zipper that is inserted into the inside of the sleeve, passing through the armpit and down the side seam. And in trousers, the zipper is inserted into the inner side of the thigh. If the temperature rises, it can be unfastened. The entire thermoregulation of the entire membrane structure depends on the length of the zipper;
• Mesh lined pockets. In some models, manufacturers use pockets based on a mesh lining. It provides additional ventilation;
• Self-dumping trousers. This function is found in tourist, mountaineering, skitouring / freeride equipment. The model has excellent ventilation. And the design itself has the property of quickly putting on or removing an extra layer, focusing on the weather, without removing shoes;
• Additional processing. By treating the material with a liquid with fluorine, a protective film is formed on the structure, which repels moisture, but allows air to pass through. The fabric is not afraid of external pollution and ultraviolet;
• Fleece or soft inserts. Eliminate the contact of the membrane with the human body, increase its durability;
• Visor made of flexible material. The element covers the face in windy, rainy weather or during snowfall;
• Snow skirt. Additional protection piece for severe cold weather, used for climbing and other activities.

Photo

It's no secret to anyone that all living beings on our planet are composed of their cells, these countless "" organic matter. Cells, in turn, are surrounded by a special protective membrane - a membrane that plays a very important role in the life of the cell, and the functions of the cell membrane are not limited to protecting the cell, but represent the most complex mechanism involved in cell reproduction, nutrition, and regeneration.

What is a cell membrane

The word “membrane” itself is translated from Latin as “film”, although the membrane is not just a kind of film in which the cell is wrapped, but a combination of two films interconnected and having different properties. In fact, the cell membrane is a three-layer lipoprotein (fat-protein) shell that separates each cell from neighboring cells and the environment, and carries out a controlled exchange between cells and the environment, this is the academic definition of what a cell membrane is.

The value of the membrane is simply enormous, because it not only separates one cell from another, but also ensures the interaction of the cell, both with other cells and with the environment.

History of cell membrane research

An important contribution to the study of the cell membrane was made by two German scientists Gorter and Grendel back in 1925. It was then that they managed to conduct a complex biological experiment on red blood cells - erythrocytes, during which scientists received the so-called "shadows", empty shells of erythrocytes, which were folded into one pile and measured the surface area, and also calculated the amount of lipids in them. Based on the amount of lipids obtained, the scientists came to the conclusion that they are just enough for the double layer of the cell membrane.

In 1935, another pair of cell membrane researchers, this time the Americans Daniel and Dawson, after a series of long experiments, determined the protein content in the cell membrane. Otherwise, it was impossible to explain why the membrane has such a high surface tension. Scientists cleverly presented a model of the cell membrane in the form of a sandwich, in which the role of bread is played by homogeneous lipid-protein layers, and between them instead of butter is emptiness.

In 1950, with the advent of the electronic theory of Daniel and Dawson, it was already possible to confirm practical observations - on micrographs of the cell membrane, layers of lipid and protein heads and also an empty space between them were clearly visible.

In 1960, the American biologist J. Robertson developed a theory about the three-layer structure of cell membranes, which for a long time was considered the only true one, but with the further development of science, doubts about its infallibility began to appear. So, for example, from the point of view of cells, it would be difficult and laborious to transport the necessary useful substances through the entire “sandwich”

And only in 1972, the American biologists S. Singer and G. Nicholson were able to explain the inconsistencies of Robertson's theory with the help of a new fluid-mosaic model of the cell membrane. In particular, they found that the cell membrane is not homogeneous in composition, moreover, it is asymmetric and filled with liquid. In addition, cells are in constant motion. And the notorious proteins that make up the cell membrane have different structures and functions.

Properties and functions of the cell membrane

Now let's look at what functions the cell membrane performs:

The barrier function of the cell membrane - the membrane, as a real border guard, stands guard over the boundaries of the cell, delaying, not letting through harmful or simply inappropriate molecules

The transport function of the cell membrane - the membrane is not only a border guard at the gates of the cell, but also a kind of customs checkpoint, through which the exchange of useful substances with other cells and the environment constantly passes.

Matrix function - it is the cell membrane that determines the location relative to each other, regulates the interaction between them.

Mechanical function - is responsible for the restriction of one cell from another and in parallel for the correct connection of cells with each other, for their formation into a homogeneous tissue.

The protective function of the cell membrane is the basis for building a protective shield of the cell. In nature, this function can be exemplified by hard wood, a dense skin, a protective shell, all due to the protective function of the membrane.

The enzymatic function is another important function performed by some cell proteins. For example, due to this function, the synthesis of digestive enzymes occurs in the intestinal epithelium.

Also, in addition to all this, cell metabolism is carried out through the cell membrane, which can take place by three different reactions:

• Phagocytosis is a cellular exchange in which phagocytic cells embedded in the membrane capture and digest various nutrients.
• Pinocytosis - is the process of capture by the cell membrane, fluid molecules in contact with it. To do this, special antennae are formed on the surface of the membrane, which seem to surround a drop of liquid, forming a bubble, which is subsequently “swallowed” by the membrane.
• Exocytosis - is the reverse process, when the cell releases secretory functional fluid through the membrane to the surface.

The structure of the cell membrane

There are three classes of lipids in the cell membrane:

• phospholipids (they are a combination of fats and),
• glycolipids (combination of fats and carbohydrates),
• cholesterol.

Phospholipids and glycolipids, in turn, consist of a hydrophilic head, into which two long hydrophobic tails extend. Cholesterol, on the other hand, occupies the space between these tails, preventing them from bending, all this in some cases makes the membrane of certain cells very rigid. In addition to all this, cholesterol molecules regulate the structure of the cell membrane.

But be that as it may, the most important part of the structure of the cell membrane is protein, or rather different proteins that play various important roles. Despite the diversity of proteins contained in the membrane, there is something that unites them - annular lipids are located around all membrane proteins. Annular lipids are special structured fats that serve as a kind of protective shell for proteins, without which they simply would not work.

The structure of the cell membrane has three layers: the basis of the cell membrane is a homogeneous liquid lipid layer. Proteins cover it on both sides like a mosaic. It is proteins that, in addition to the functions described above, also play the role of peculiar channels through which substances pass through the membrane that are unable to penetrate the liquid layer of the membrane. These include, for example, potassium and sodium ions; for their penetration through the membrane, nature provides special ion channels of cell membranes. In other words, proteins provide the permeability of cell membranes.

If we look at the cell membrane through a microscope, we will see a layer of lipids formed by small spherical molecules on which proteins float like on the sea. Now you know what substances are part of the cell membrane.

Cell membrane, video

And finally, an educational video about the cell membrane.

This article is available in English - .