| abstract |
Woven and knitted fabrics comprising expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) fibers and at least one other fiber are provided. The ePTFE fibers may be woven or knitted as part of a multifilament fiber as a single untwisted fiber, or may be twisted or braided with another fiber. The ePTFE fiber can be used either in the warp and / or weft direction, either alone or in combination with the woven fiber. Woven and knitted fabrics are simultaneously breathable, lightweight, durable, draped and quick-drying. ePTFE fiber has a substantially rectangular form. In some embodiments, the woven or knitted fabric is flame retardant. In addition, woven and knitted fabrics are quiet, soft and draped. For example, the surface of ePTFE fibers and / or fabrics can be treated to impart one or more desired functionalities such as oleophobicity, antibacterial properties, stain resistance, or UV stability. |