A Comprehensive Review of Waterproof Breathable Materials: Advancements and Applications

Abstract

Waterproof breathable materials (WBM) are essential in a variety of industries, providing a critical balance between good water and air permeability. This unique combination deflects water, rain, and other moisture away from wet working conditions - rain beads up and rolls off the surface of your gear so you stay dry, while sweat vapor easily escapes to help keep your inner layers dry. It is widely applied in the field of outdoor sportswear and protection equipment, as well as medical textiles such as surgical gowns and dressings to prevent liquid penetration while allowing air permeability of the skin. Furthermore, they are critical for dealing with extreme weather conditions and even in aerospace applications. In recent years, the need for improved durability, performance and sustainability has driven advances in technology. Among these advances, electrospinning has emerged as a transformative technology that has enabled the creation of efficient WBM. These electrospun membranes often outperform traditional materials like laminated polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) by offering superior control over pore size and porosity, which are key determinants of breathability and waterproofing. Additionally, the versatility of electrospinning enables the incorporation of nanoparticles or surface treatments to add multifunctional properties, such as UV protection or antimicrobial activity. In this paper, the application, development technology, the shortcomings of early methods and the latest innovations of electrospinning are reviewed, with emphasis on electrospinning.