New breathable, UV-blocking polyester fabric

As extremely high summer temperatures become increasingly common, Teijin Frontier, the Teijin Group’s fibers and products converting company, developed this new polyester to meet market demands for materials with enhanced heat protection functions. A distinct multifunctional polyester material has been engineered which combines the benefits of breathability and UV protection, mimicking the design of a traditional Japanese Sudare, or bamboo blind. This material allows breezes to pass through while blocking out sunlight.

Prior to this development, breathability and UV protection were considered incompatible due to the need for gaps between fibers for breathability, disrupting the density required for UV resistance.

Addressing this issue, Teijin Frontier Co., Ltd., Tokyo/Japan, has designed a structure with slit-shaped areas that are permeable for enhanced breathability. These three-dimensional gaps, akin to those found in a bamboo blind, furnished the material with good breathability while also blocking up to 85% or more of UV rays. The structure allows air permeability of 50cm²/cm²・s or more.

The new fabric also includes sustainability features, incorporating a portion of recycled polyester. Its specific structure and elastane fibers impart the product with an ability to stretch, while varying shrinkage rates among threads and the given fabric's structure prevent it from sticking. Teijin Frontier utilized advanced high-shrinkage and dyeing technologies to achieve this multifunctionality, making the material suitable for both casual and fashion wear.