EP3875650B1 - Fabric for personal protection and garment comprising such a fabric - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a fabric, in particular usable in the manufacture of clothing for personal protection, comprising at least one high-performance thermoplastic yarn such as an aromatic polyester yarn. The invention also relates to a garment for personal protection comprising such a fabric, in particular in the outer layer of said garment.

The protection of the human body against the effects of the heat generated by fires has long been the subject of special studies in the field of textiles. More specifically, it is sought to use flame-retardant textiles that are sufficiently comfortable to be able to be worn by the public concerned, namely firefighters, personnel from the chemical industry, electricity production, civil protection and other military personnel.

Thus, various solutions have been proposed and are available to date, but none of them gives full satisfaction for the reasons set out below.

Fabrics made of cotton or cotton/polyester blends flame retarded by means of a chemical treatment have been proposed. The fireproofing of these textiles consists of impregnation using baths comprising metal salts. However, such textiles have a relatively high surface density, for example of the order of 300 g/m ² or more, in order to be able to meet the protection standards in force. Such a high basis weight makes the garment comprising such a textile not very comfortable. This type of textile can also be blamed for a significant alteration of the touch during use, also affecting the comfort of the user. Moreover, in addition to a low resistance to abrasion, the durability of the fire-resistant properties of such textiles may be insufficient and requires taking a certain number of maintenance precautions so as not to alter these textiles, in particular during cycles. washing.

Alternatively, the textile industry offers woven or knitted materials using yarns comprising cellulosic yarns, combined using so-called "intimate blending" technology with "flame retardant" acrylic, in varying proportions depending on the use, and in such a way as to impart fire-resistant properties to the wire. By "intimate mixture" is meant, in the field of textiles, a mixture of several types of fibers which, at the level of a spinning mill, will constitute the yarn, said yarn being in turn, in a subsequent step, woven or knitted. Textiles obtained with these materials have the same drawbacks as fabrics made of cotton or cotton/polyester blends fireproofed with metallic salts, namely high weight, altered comfort, low lifespan, shrinkage after heavy washing, etc.

Textiles comprising heat-stable, fire-resistant fibers are also proposed, such as in particular fibers based on aramid, whether it is the meta-aramid PMIA or the para-aramid PPTA. Such textiles have good durability, good mechanical performance and good thermal protection properties. Mostly transformed into an intimate mixture, these fibers are very widely used in the manufacture of equipment with high level requirements, in particular for firefighting equipment or for the police forces. Thus, a high percentage of para-aramid PPTA in a textile gives the latter interesting properties, namely a good level of flame resistance, no "break open", that is to say a good ability to textile to resist the opening of the textile under the effect of flame and heat, and low thermal shrinkage during a flashover. However, experience shows that such a product may exhibit reduced abrasion resistance, unsatisfactory resistance to ultraviolet rays, some degradation under the effect of humidity, and a tendency to pilling, this is that is to say the formation of small fluffy balls on its surface, due for example to the friction it undergoes during its use or maintenance.

Furthermore, it has been observed that the colors of the para-aramid PPTA under the effect of ultraviolet light degrade rapidly with an impact on the original mechanical properties of the textile. Similarly, the low resistance to washing of the colors of para-aramid PPTA alters the visual appearance of the textile. Finally, it should be emphasized that PPTA para-aramid fibers see their mechanical characteristics decrease under the effect of humidity. This phenomenon constitutes a not insignificant disadvantage in the use of firefighting equipment which will inevitably be subjected to high levels of humidity in operational conditions but also during repeated washing cycles.

Finally, it should be noted that the requirements for decontaminating firefighting equipment have been tightened in recent years and now require a significantly high number of washing cycles. In addition, EP 2 762 618 A1 discloses a fabric comprising an arrangement of yarns arranged in a weave pattern forming a face of the fabric and a back of the fabric, said arrangement of yarns comprising one or more warp yarns and one or more weft yarns comprising aromatic polyester.

Thus, despite the textile solutions developed above, there remains the need to improve personal protective equipment by increasing the performance of the textiles used for their manufacture.

The present invention aims to remedy this need by proposing a fabric comprising at least one yarn based on aromatic polyester, this fabric having in particular particularly remarkable mechanical and anti-fire properties while having a surface mass allowing optimal comfort for the user.

The present invention relates to a fabric comprising an arrangement of yarns arranged in a weave pattern forming a face of the fabric and a reverse side of the fabric, said arrangement of yarns comprising one or more warp yarns and one or more weft yarns, characterized in that at least one of said warp yarns and said weft yarns is an aromatic polyester yarn, the other yarns being made of a material other than aromatic polyester, said aromatic polyester yarn being bonded to the other yarns within of the weaving weave so that this aromatic polyester yarn does not appear on the face of the fabric.

The aromatic polyester yarn or yarns of the fabric according to the invention can be in the form of fiber spun yarns or continuous filaments. These yarns are produced from an aromatic polyester, a polyarylate, which is a liquid crystal thermotropic polymer. This polymer is obtained by the polymerization of parahydroxybenzoic acid with 6-hydroxynaphthalene-2-carboxylic acid. The molecular chain of this liquid crystal polymer has a very high degree of orientation in the direction of the length of the fiber, which gives the yarn spun from these fibers excellent physical properties.

An aromatic polyester yarn particularly suitable for the manufacture of the fabric according to the invention is the aromatic polyester yarn sold under the trade name “ ^Vectran® ” by the company Kuraray. Due to its decomposition temperature above 400°C, such a wire has a very high resistance to heat. Moreover, when this wire is subjected to a strong source of heat, no toxic gas is emitted. Thus, the fabric according to the invention has good heat resistance as well as good chemical behavior under the conditions in which it can be used when it contributes to the manufacture of personal protective clothing such as intended to be worn by firefighters.

The weaving weave of the fabric according to the invention can be a complex weaving weave making it possible to obtain different functionalities and/or aspects on the front side and on the reverse side of the fabric.

In the fabric according to the invention, the aromatic polyester yarn is placed in said weaving weave in such a way that it is not visible, that is to say not visible to the eye of a user, on the right side of the fabric. Thus, said aromatic polyester yarn is not present on the face of the fabric. He is not one of the sons constituting the face of the fabric. The weave of the fabric is thus made up according to a specific arrangement of the threads, which makes it possible to hide the aromatic polyester thread on the face of the fabric.

The aromatic polyester yarn can thus be bonded to the yarns constituting the face of the fabric, without however appearing on the face of the fabric.

Thus, preferably, all the bonding points of the aromatic polyester yarn or yarns with the other yarns are located within the fabric and/or on the back of the fabric. Preferably, the bonding of the aromatic polyester yarn(s) with the other yarns not only makes it possible not to show the aromatic polyester yarns on the right side of the fabric, but it also makes it possible to strongly bond the aromatic polyester yarns in the fabric. : this makes it possible to obtain a homogeneous behavior between, on the one hand, the aromatic polyester yarns and, on the other hand, the other yarns of the fabric, in particular as regards the possible shrinkage during weaving and/or washing.

Indeed, it is known that fibers of different natures can have different weaving shrinkages and different washing shrinkages. As a result, a fabric comprising fibers of different natures may present an inhomogeneous appearance after several washes. The bonding of the aromatic polyester yarn(s) with the other yarns of the fabric according to the invention, by strongly bonding the aromatic polyester yarns to the other yarns, preferably makes it possible to avoid such degradation of the appearance of the fabric, even after several washes of the fabric.

The fabric according to the invention has excellent resistance to abrasion, in particular on its face, free of aromatic polyester yarn. Thus, in circumstances of use of the fabric according to the invention in which the face of the fabric constitutes the outer face of a personal protective garment, the particular construction of the fabric according to the invention allows the aromatic polyester yarn to retain its integrity throughout the period of use of the fabric. The fabric thus retains its mechanical properties throughout the life of the fabric/garment.

Preferably, any aromatic polyester yarn present in the fabric according to the invention is bonded to the other yarns within the weaving weave in such a way that this aromatic polyester yarn does not appear on the face of the fabric. Thus, the integrity of all the aromatic polyester yarns used in the fabric according to the invention is preserved during the use time of the fabric/garment.

In one embodiment, the fabric according to the invention comprises at least two said aromatic polyester yarns. For example, a first of these aromatic polyester yarns is a warp yarn and the second of these aromatic polyester yarns is a weft yarn. This makes it possible to give the fabric according to the invention excellent mechanical properties in warp and weft, good tear resistance in warp and weft, as well as good cut resistance.

In an embodiment in which the aromatic polyester yarns form the warp yarns and the weft yarns of the back of the fabric, the other yarns forming the warp yarns and the weft yarns of the face of the fabric, only the aromatic polyester yarns forming the warp yarns on the back of the fabric are linked to the other yarns by binding stitches. This embodiment of the weaving weave, which ensures that the aromatic polyester yarns forming the weft yarns of the back of the fabric are not bound to the yarns forming the face of the fabric, guarantees the absence on the face of the fabric of the aromatic polyester weft yarns from the back of the fabric. In particular, in such an embodiment, the aromatic polyester yarns forming the warp yarns of the back of the fabric are linked to the other yarns at points chosen so that these aromatic polyester warp yarns do not appear on the place of the fabric.

Preferably, the aromatic polyester yarns are present in the fabric according to the invention in a proportion ranging from 10% to 25% by mass, preferably from 17% to 22% by mass, more preferably from 18% to 22% by mass, relative to the total mass of said tissue. The fabric thus has both good mechanical properties and good fire-retardant performance, while remaining within a range of surface mass allowing user comfort.

The aromatic polyester yarns of the fabric according to the invention can be chosen from yarns of aromatic polyester fibers, continuous filaments of aromatic polyester and mixtures thereof. The aromatic polyester fiber yarns that can be used for the fabric according to the present invention preferably have a count (1 dtex=10,000/Nm) ranging from 36/2Nm to 70/2Nm, for example 36/2Nm. Such a titration allows the yarns used to bring a certain resistance to the fabric while not overloading the latter too much by weight. The aromatic polyester continuous filaments that can be used for the fabric according to the present invention preferably have a count ranging from 110 dtex to 880 dtex, preferably from 220 dtex to 440 dtex. Such a titration allows the yarns used to bring a certain resistance to the fabric while not overloading the latter too much by weight.

In one embodiment, one or more of the aromatic polyester yarns may be a cracked yarn. The mechanical resistance of the wire is thus increased.

In one embodiment, one or more of the aromatic polyester yarns is wrapped yarn, for example with a polyamide yarn. A covered yarn makes it possible to impart an external color to the aromatic polyester yarn, for example by dyeing the polyamide yarn. A covered yarn also makes it possible to improve the process of weaving of the fabric, by protecting the aromatic polyester yarn instead of the sizing oils usually used during the weaving process, these oils being poorly compatible with aromatic polyester yarns.

Alternatively, one or more aromatic polyester yarns can be covered with a colored coating.

The fabric according to the invention comprises yarns other than the aromatic polyester yarn or yarns described above. These other yarns generally form the basic structure of the fabric and are chosen from any yarn suitable for the manufacture of a fabric in particular for personal protection. These threads can be made of a material chosen from meta aramid, para aramid, viscose, cellulose, modacrylic, polybenzimidazole (PBI), poly( p -phenylene-2,6-benzobisoxazole) (PBO) and their mixtures. For example, these yarns are chosen from yarns made up of fibers chosen from meta-aramid fibers, para-aramid fibers, antistatic fibers, cellulosic fibers and mixtures of these fibers, in particular from meta-aramid fibers. -aramid, para-aramid fibers, antistatic fibers, cellulosic fibers and mixtures of these fibers.

In particular, the yarns other than the aromatic polyester yarns form the face of the fabric according to the invention and can be arranged according to any known weave, for example a Ripstop weave, a Micro-Ripstop weave, a Twill weave or even any other weave. more elaborate. The type of weave of the fabric according to the invention is adapted, depending on the type and the count of the yarns forming the fabric, both of the aromatic polyester yarns and of the other yarns, so that the binding points of the polyester yarns aromatic with the other threads do not appear on the face. Thus, the aromatic polyester yarns are integrated into the internal structure of the fabric and do not appear on the face. Aromatic polyester threads may appear on the back of the fabric.

• Un fil de titre 70/2Nm mélangeant 93% de fibres méta-aramide, 5% de fibres para-aramide et 2% de fibres antistatiques vendu sous la dénomination commerciale « Nomex^® N302 » par la société DuPont de Nemours,
• Un fil de titre 60/1Nm mélangeant 93% de fibres méta-aramide, 5% de fibres para-aramide et 2% de fibres antistatiques vendu sous la dénomination commerciale « Nomex^® N302 » par la société DuPont de Nemours,
• Un fil de titre 60/2Nm mélangeant 75% de fibres méta-aramide, 23% de fibres para-aramide et 2% de fibres antistatiques vendu sous la dénomination commerciale « Nomex^® N305 » par la société DuPont de Nemours.

Examples of such other yarns which can be used for the manufacture of the fabric according to the invention are for example:

• A yarn with a 70/2Nm count mixing 93% meta-aramid fibers, 5% para-aramid fibers and 2% antistatic fibers sold under the trade name "Nomex ^® N302" by the company DuPont de Nemours,
• A yarn with a 60/1Nm count mixing 93% meta-aramid fibers, 5% para-aramid fibers and 2% antistatic fibers sold under the trade name "Nomex ^® N302" by the company DuPont de Nemours,
• A yarn with a count of 60/2 Nm mixing 75% meta-aramid fibers, 23% para-aramid fibers and 2% antistatic fibers sold under the trade name “ ^Nomex® N305” by the company DuPont de Nemours.

In one embodiment, the fabric according to the invention preferably has a surface mass ranging from 210 g/m ² to 260 g/m ² , preferably from 220 g/m ² to 250 g/m ² . Thus, the fabric according to the invention has a lightness making it particularly suitable for the manufacture of clothing for personal protection. In particular, the low surface mass of the fabric according to the invention makes it possible to manufacture comfortable personal protective clothing.

The fabric according to the invention has very good mechanical properties, for example excellent mechanical strength both in warp and in weft. For example, the fabric according to the invention has a mechanical warp resistance, measured according to standard NF EN ISO 13934-1, ranging from 190 daN/5cm to 288 daN/5cm, for example ranging from 190 daN/5cm to 250 daN /5cm. For example, the fabric according to the invention has a mechanical strength in the weft, measured according to standard NF EN ISO 13934-1, ranging from 190 daN/5cm to 295 daN/5cm, for example ranging from 190 daN/5cm to 250 daN /5cm.

The fabric according to the invention also has excellent tear resistance. For example, the fabric according to the invention has a warp tear resistance, measured according to standard EN 13937-2, ranging from 15 daN to 27 daN. For example, the fabric according to the invention has a weft tear resistance, measured according to standard EN 13937-2, ranging from 16 daN to 40 daN.

The fabric according to the invention also has excellent cut resistance. For example, the fabric according to the invention has a cut resistance, measured according to standard NF EN ISO 13977, ranging from 3.8 N to 4.7 N.

The fabric according to the invention also has excellent fire-retardant properties.

The present invention also relates to personal protective clothing, in particular fireproof, comprising at least one fabric as described above, said fabric forming at least an outer part of said garment. In particular, in such a garment, the face of the fabric according to the invention, free of aromatic polyester yarn, will be placed on the outer surface of said garment. Such a garment will thus have excellent abrasion resistance.

• [Fig. 1] est un schéma de l'armure de tissage d'une première forme de réalisation d'un tissu selon l'invention,
• [Fig. 2] est un schéma de l'armure de tissage d'une deuxième forme de réalisation d'un tissu selon l'invention,
• [Fig. 3] est un schéma de l'armure de tissage d'une troisième forme de réalisation d'un tissu selon l'invention,
• [Fig. 4] est une vue en coupe transversale perpendiculairement aux fils de trame du tissu selon l'invention réalisé avec l'armure de tissage de la Figure 3 selon le plan I-I indiqué sur la Figure 3,
• [Fig. 5] est une vue en coupe transversale perpendiculairement aux fils de trame du tissu selon l'invention réalisé avec l'armure de tissage de la Figure 3, selon le plan II-II indiqué sur la Figure 3,
• [Fig. 6] est un schéma de l'armure de tissage d'une quatrième forme de réalisation d'un tissu selon l'invention,
• [Fig. 7] est un schéma de l'armure de tissage d'une cinquième forme de réalisation d'un tissu selon l'invention.

The advantages of the fabric according to the invention will emerge more precisely from the examples and figures which follow, in which:

• [ Fig. 1 ] is a diagram of the weaving weave of a first embodiment of a fabric according to the invention,
• [ Fig. 2 ] is a diagram of the weaving weave of a second embodiment of a fabric according to the invention,
• [ Fig. 3 ] is a diagram of the weaving weave of a third embodiment of a fabric according to the invention,
• [ Fig. 4 ] is a cross-sectional view perpendicular to the weft yarns of the fabric according to the invention made with the weave weave of the Figure 3 according to plan II indicated on the Figure 3 ,
• [ Fig. 5 ] is a cross-sectional view perpendicular to the weft yarns of the fabric according to the invention made with the weave weave of the Figure 3 , according to plan II-II indicated on the Figure 3 ,
• [ Fig. 6 ] is a diagram of the weaving weave of a fourth embodiment of a fabric according to the invention,
• [ Fig. 7 ] is a diagram of the weave pattern of a fifth embodiment of a fabric according to the invention.

EXAMPLES : EXAMPLE 1 : a) Preparation of a fabric according to the invention: FABRIC 1

• Des fils de polyester aromatique, sous la forme de filés de fibres, de titre 36/2Nm, vendus sous la dénomination commerciale « Vectran^® »,
• des fils mélangeant 93% de fibres méta-aramide, 5% de fibres para-aramide et 2% de fibres antistatiques vendus sous la dénomination commerciale « Nomex^® N302 », de titre 70/2Nm.

A fabric according to the invention, hereinafter referred to as FABRIC 1, is manufactured, comprising the following yarns:

• Aromatic polyester yarns, in the form of fiber yarns, with a count of 36/2Nm, sold under the trade name "Vectran ^® ",
• yarns mixing 93% of meta-aramid fibers, 5% of para-aramid fibers and 2% of antistatic fibers sold under the trade name “ ^Nomex® N302”, with a title of 70/2Nm.

In the present example, the “ ^Vectran® ” yarns have undergone a cracking treatment: they are therefore cracked “ ^Vectran® ” yarns; these yarns have a reinforced mechanical resistance compared to “ ^Vectran® ” yarns which have not undergone any cracking treatment.

The weaving weave used to make CLOTH 1 is shown in the Figure 1 . This representation is well known to those skilled in the art. In this figure, the weft threads are shown parallel to the horizontal direction TR, and the warp threads parallel to the vertical direction CH. A gray box indicates that the warp yarn is above the weft yarn, a white box indicates that the weft yarn is above the warp yarn.

In this figure, the wires 1 of cracked “Vectran ^® ” and the wires 2 of “Nomex ^® N302” are represented.

As it appears from this figure, threads 1 of cracked "Vectran ^® " are present in the weave of the fabric both in warp and weft threads, and threads 2 of "Nomex ^® N302" are also present in the weave in both warp and weft threads.

This weaving weave means that the cracked "Vectran ^® " threads 1 are bound to the other threads, here the "Nomex ^® N302" threads 2, by binding points which are present in the heart of the fabric and/or on the reverse, but which are absent on the front. Thus, the cracked “ ^Vectran® ” threads 1 do not appear on the face of the fabric.

The mass percentage of aromatic polyester yarns, in other words of cracked “ ^Vectran® ”, is 17% by mass, relative to the total mass of the fabric.

FABRIC 1 has a surface weight of 240 g/m ² .

The mechanical strength and fire resistance properties of TISSU 1 were compared to those of a prior art fabric, TISSU 0.

b) Comparative fabric: FABRIC 0

FABRIC 0 is a fabric comprising yarns mixing 93% meta-aramid fibers, 5% para-aramid fibers and 2% antistatic fibers sold under the trade name “ ^Nomex® N302”, with a count of 50/2Nm. FABRIC 0 does not include aromatic polyester yarn. It is composed solely of "Nomex ^® N302" threads with a count of 50/2Nm, in warp and weft. The surface mass of TISSUE 0 is 240 g/m ² .

c) Comparison of mechanical properties :

• résistance mécanique en chaîne et résistance mécanique en trame, données en daN/5cm, conformément à la norme NF EN ISO 13934-1 ; dans ce test, la force mesurée correspond à la force nécessaire pour atteindre la rupture de l'échantillon : ainsi, plus cette force est élevée, plus le tissu est résistant mécaniquement,
• résistance à la déchirure en chaîne et résistance à la déchirure en trame, données en daN, conformément à la norme EN 13937-2 ; dans ce test, la force mesurée correspond à la force nécessaire pour provoquer la déchirure d'un échantillon de dimensions 200x50mm soumis à une vitesse de déplacement d'une pince mobile de 100mm/min : ainsi, plus la force mesurée est élevée, plus le tissu est résistant à la déchirure,
• résistance à la coupure, donnée en N, conformément à la norme NF EN ISO 13977, via la méthode TDM (Time Domain Multiplexing) : dans ce test, la force mesurée correspond à la charge nécessaire pour couper une distance de référence de 20mm : ainsi, plus cette force est élevée, plus le tissu est résistant à la coupure.

For FABRIC 0 and FABRIC 1, the mechanical strength properties were measured using the following test methods:

• mechanical strength in warp and mechanical strength in weft, given in daN/5cm, in accordance with standard NF EN ISO 13934-1; in this test, the force measured corresponds to the force necessary to achieve the rupture of the sample: thus, the higher this force, the more the fabric is mechanically resistant,
• tear resistance in warp and tear resistance in weft, given in daN, in accordance with standard EN 13937-2; in this test, the force measured corresponds to the force necessary to cause the tearing of a sample of dimensions 200x50mm subjected to a movement speed of a mobile gripper of 100mm/min: thus, the higher the measured force, the greater the fabric is tear resistant,
• cut resistance, given in N, in accordance with standard NF EN ISO 13977, via the TDM (Time Domain Multiplexing) method: in this test, the force measured corresponds to the load necessary to cut a reference distance of 20mm: thus , the higher this force, the more cut-resistant the fabric.

The results obtained are recorded in the following Table 1: [Table 1] FABRIC 0 (comparative) CLOTH 1 (invention) Surface mass (g/m ² ) 240 240 Chain mechanical resistance (daN/5cm) 160 190 Weft mechanical resistance (daN/5 cm) 130 190 Chain tear resistance (daN) 18 27 Weft tear strength (daN) 14 16 Cut resistance (N) 3.8 4.7

Table 1: mechanical strength properties for FABRIC 0 and FABRIC 1

As emerges from this table, at an equivalent basis weight, the mechanical properties of the fabric according to the invention TISSUE 1 are much higher than those of the fabric according to the prior art TISSUE 0 not comprising any aromatic polyester yarns.

Thus, the weft mechanical resistance of FABRIC 1 is practically 1.4 times greater than that of FABRIC 0. The warp tear resistance of FABRIC 1 is 1.5 times greater than that of FABRIC 0.

d) Comparison of fire resistance properties :

In order to measure and compare the thermal performance and the fire resistance properties of the FABRIC 1 according to the invention and of the comparative fabric TISSU 0, these fabrics were incorporated into multilayer complexes. Each multilayer complex (hereinafter referred to as CM) comprised a first layer corresponding to the fabric to be tested, a second layer comprising a nonwoven fabric complexed with a membrane, and a third layer composed of a conventional fabric used in firefighter applications. . The second and third layers were therefore identical for all the multilayer complexes.

• Une première couche formée du TISSU 1,
• Une deuxième couche composée d'un tissu complexé avec une membrane,
• Une troisième couche composée elle-même de deux couches : une première couche constituée d'un mélange de 93% de fibres meta aramide, 5% de fibres para aramide et 2% de fibres antistatiques, vendu sous la dénomination commerciale « Nomex^® Confort E502 » par la société DuPont de Nemours, de titre 70/2 Nm, et une deuxième couche constituée de 100% de fibres de meta aramide assemblées en 4 bouts de 60/2 Nm, produit vendu sous la dénomination commerciale « Nomex^® T450 » par la société DuPont de Nemours.

Thus, the multilayer complex comprising the fabric according to the invention TISSU 1 (hereinafter referred to as CM TISSU 1) was composed of:

• A first layer formed from FABRIC 1,
• A second layer composed of a fabric complexed with a membrane,
• A third layer itself composed of two layers: a first layer consisting of a mixture of 93% meta aramid fibers, 5% para aramid fibers and 2% antistatic fibers, sold under the trade name "Nomex ^® Comfort E502 by DuPont de Nemours, with a titer of 70/2 Nm, and a second layer consisting of 100% meta aramid fibers assembled in 4 ends of 60/2 Nm, product sold under the trade name "Nomex ^® T450" by the DuPont de Nemours company.

• Une première couche formée du TISSU 0,
• Une deuxième couche composée d'un tissu complexé avec une membrane,
• Une troisième couche composée elle-même de deux couches : une première couche constituée d'un mélange de 93% de fibres meta aramide, 5% de fibres para aramide et 2% de fibres antistatiques, vendu sous la dénomination commerciale « Nomex^® Confort E502 » par la société DuPont de Nemours, de titre 70/2 Nm, et une deuxième couche constituée de 100% de fibres de meta aramide assemblées en 4 bouts de 60/2 Nm, produit vendu sous la dénomination commerciale « Nomex^® T450 » par la société DuPont de Nemours.

The multilayer complex comprising the comparative fabric TISSU 0 (hereinafter referred to as CM TISSU 0) was composed of:

• A first layer formed of FABRIC 0,
• A second layer composed of a fabric complexed with a membrane,
• A third layer itself composed of two layers: a first layer consisting of a mixture of 93% meta aramid fibers, 5% para aramid fibers and 2% antistatic fibers, sold under the trade name "Nomex ^® Comfort E502 by DuPont de Nemours, with a titer of 70/2 Nm, and a second layer consisting of 100% meta aramid fibers assembled in 4 ends of 60/2 Nm, product sold under the trade name "Nomex ^® T450" by the DuPont de Nemours company.

• Test au feu radiante, conformément à la norme NF EN ISO 6942, méthode B, 40kW/m² : dans ce test, une éprouvette est exposée à un niveau spécifié de chaleur radiante pendant une durée spécifiée. Les durées pour une élévation du calorimètre de 12°C et 24°C sont enregistrées. L'indice RHTI correspond à l'indice de transfert de chaleur radiante. RHTI₁₂ et RHTI₂₄ sont les indices calculés en secondes correspondant au temps nécessaire pour obtenir une élévation de température du calorimètre de respectivement 12 +/- 0.1°C et 24 +/-0.2°C.
• Test au feu convective, conformément à la norme NF EN 367, 80kW/m² : dans ce test, une éprouvette est soumise à un flux de chaleur incidente de 80kW, issue de la flamme d'un brûleur de gaz placé en dessous. La chaleur qui traverse l'éprouvette est mesurée au moyen d'un calorimètre en cuivre placé sur l'éprouvette et en contact avec cette dernière. Le temps en secondes, nécessaire à une élévation de 12°C et de 24°C dans le calorimètre est enregistré. L'indice HTI correspond à l'indice de transmission de chaleur. Ce nombre est calculé en secondes et correspondant à la durée pour obtenir une élévation de 12°C +/- 0.1°C (HTI₁₂) et de 24°C +/-0.2°C (HTI₂₄).

For CM TISSU 0 and CM TISSU 1, the fire resistance properties were measured using the following test methods:

• Radiant fire test, in accordance with standard NF EN ISO 6942, method B, ^40kW /m2: in this test, a specimen is exposed to a specified level of radiant heat for a specified time. The times for a calorimeter rise of 12°C and 24°C are recorded. The RHTI index corresponds to the radiant heat transfer index. RHTI ₁₂ and RHTI ₂₄ are the indices calculated in seconds corresponding to the time required to obtain a calorimeter temperature rise of 12 +/- 0.1°C and 24 +/- 0.2°C respectively.
• Convective fire test, in accordance with standard NF EN 367, 80kW/m ² : in this test, a specimen is subjected to an incident heat flux of 80kW, resulting from the flame of a gas burner placed below. The heat which passes through the specimen is measured by means of a copper calorimeter placed on the specimen and in contact with the latter. The time in seconds required for a rise of 12°C and 24°C in the calorimeter is recorded. The HTI index corresponds to the heat transmission index. This number is calculated in seconds and corresponds to the duration to obtain a rise of 12°C +/- 0.1°C (HTI ₁₂ ) and of 24°C +/-0.2°C (HTI ₂₄ ).

The results obtained are recorded in the following Table 2: [Table 2] CM TISSUE 0 (comparative) CM FABRIC 1 (invention) Radiant fire test HRTI _24-12 = 5.3 HRTI _24-12 = 5.8 HRTI ₂₄ = 17.6 HRTI ₂₄ = 19.8 Convective fire test HTI _24-12 = 4.3 HTI _24-12 = 4.3 HTI ₂₄ = 13.3 HTI ₂₄ = 13.4

Table 2: fire resistance properties for CM TISSU 0 and CM TISSU 1

As appears from the above table, the convective heat performances are similar for the fabric-integrating complex according to the invention and the fabric-integrating complex according to the prior art. On the other hand, the performances under radiant heat are superior for the complex integrating the fabric according to the invention.

Thus, for fabrics of equivalent surface mass, the FABRIC 1 according to the invention has properties of mechanical strength and fire resistance superior to the FABRIC 0 according to the prior art, free of aromatic polyester threads.

EXAMPLE 2 : a) Preparation of a fabric according to the invention: TISSUE 2

• Des fils de polyester aromatique, sous la forme de filaments continus, de titre 220 dtex, vendus sous la dénomination commerciale « Vectran^® »,
• des fils mélangeant 93% de fibres méta-aramide, 5% de fibres para-aramide et 2% de fibres antistatiques vendus sous la dénomination commerciale « Nomex^® N302 », de titre 70/2Nm.

A fabric according to the invention, hereinafter referred to as FABRIC 2, is manufactured, comprising the following yarns:

• Aromatic polyester yarns, in the form of continuous filaments, with a count of 220 dtex, sold under the trade name "Vectran ^® ",
• yarns mixing 93% of meta-aramid fibers, 5% of para-aramid fibers and 2% of antistatic fibers sold under the trade name “ ^Nomex® N302”, with a title of 70/2Nm.

In the present example, the “ ^Vectran® ” yarns are wrapped with a polyamide 66 yarn with a count of 44 dtex.

The weaving weave used to make CLOTH 2 is shown in the Figure 2 , according to a diagram of the same type as in Figure 1 .

On this figure 2 , are represented the yarns 3 of covered “ ^Vectran® ” and the yarns 4 of “Nomex® ^N302 ”.

As it appears from this figure, yarns 3 of covered "Vectran ^® " are present in the weave of the fabric both in warp yarns and in weft yarns, and yarns 4 of "Nomex ^® N302" are also present in the weave in both warp and weft threads.

This weaving weave means that the yarns 3 of covered "Vectran ^® " are linked to the other yarns, here the yarns 4 of "Nomex ^® N302", by binding points which are present in the heart of the fabric and/or on the reverse, but which are absent on the front. Moreover, according to this weaving weave, only the covered “ ^Vectran® ” yarns which form the warp yarns of the back of the fabric are bonded to the “ ^Nomex® N302” yarns forming the face of the fabric. The covered “Vectran ^® ” yarns which form the weft yarns on the back of the fabric are not bonded to the “Nomex ^® N302” yarns forming the face of the fabric. Thus, the covered “ ^Vectran® ” yarns 3 do not appear on the face of the fabric.

The mass percentage of aromatic polyester yarns, in other words “ ^Vectran® ”, is 19.5% by mass, relative to the total mass of the fabric.

FABRIC 2 has a surface mass of 225 g/m ² .

The mechanical strength and fire resistance properties of FABRIC 2 were compared to those of the fabric of the prior art described in EXAMPLE 1, namely FABRIC 0. The tests of this example were carried out according to the same protocols than those of EXAMPLE 1.

b) Comparison of mechanical properties :

The results obtained are recorded in Table 3 below: [Table 3] FABRIC 0 (comparative) CLOTH 2 (invention) Surface mass (g/m ² ) 240 225 Chain mechanical resistance (daN/5cm) 160 250 Weft mechanical resistance (daN/5 cm) 130 190 Chain tear resistance (daN) 18 25.5 Weft tear strength (daN) 14 27.4 Cut resistance (N) 3.8 3.8

Table 3: mechanical strength properties for FABRIC 0 and FABRIC 2

As can be seen from this table, for a lower basis weight, therefore a lighter and more comfortable fabric, the fabric according to the invention TISSU 2 has mechanical strength properties much higher than those of the fabric according to the prior art TISSU 0 not including aromatic polyester yarn.

In particular, in the present example, the warp mechanical resistance of FABRIC 2 is 1.5 times greater than that of FABRIC 0, while the weft mechanical resistance of FABRIC 2 is practically 1.4 times greater than that of FABRIC 0 The weft tear strength of FABRIC 2 is nearly double that of FABRIC 0.

c) Comparison of fire resistance properties :

• Une première couche formée du TISSU 2,
• Une deuxième couche composée d'un tissu complexé avec une membrane,
• Une troisième couche composée elle-même de deux couches : une première couche constituée d'un mélange de 93% de fibres meta aramide, 5% de fibres para aramide et 2% de fibres antistatiques, vendu sous la dénomination commerciale « Nomex^® Confort E502 » par la société DuPont de Nemours, de titre 70/2 Nm, et une deuxième couche constituée de 100% de fibres de meta aramide assemblées en 4 bouts de 60/2 Nm, produit vendu sous la dénomination commerciale « Nomex^® T450 » par la société DuPont de Nemours.

A multilayer complex comprising the fabric according to the invention TISSU 2 (hereinafter referred to as CM TISSU 2) composed of:

• A first layer formed of FABRIC 2,
• A second layer composed of a fabric complexed with a membrane,
• A third layer itself composed of two layers: a first layer consisting of a mixture of 93% meta aramid fibers, 5% para aramid fibers and 2% antistatic fibers, sold under the trade name "Nomex ^® Comfort E502 by DuPont de Nemours, with a titer of 70/2 Nm, and a second layer consisting of 100% meta aramid fibers assembled in 4 ends of 60/2 Nm, product sold under the trade name "Nomex ^® T450" by the DuPont de Nemours company.

The fire resistance properties were measured according to the same protocols as in EXAMPLE 1 and compared with those of the multilayer complex integrating the TISSU 0 of the prior art (CM TISSU 0) of EXAMPLE 1.

The results obtained are recorded in Table 4 below: [Table 4] CM TISSUE 0 (comparative) CM TISSUE 2 (invention) Radiant fire test HRTI _24-12 = 5.3 HRTI _24-12 = 5.8 HRTI ₂₄ = 17.6 HRTI ₂₄ = 20.4 Convective fire test HTI _24-12 = 4.3 HTI _24-12 = 4.1 HTI ₂₄ = 13.3 HTI ₂₄ = 14.1

Table 4 : fire resistance properties for CM TISSU 0 and CM TISSU 2

As it appears from the above table, the thermal performances to radiant heat and to convective heat of the complex integrating the FABRIC 2 according to the invention are superior to those of the complex integrating the FABRIC 0 of the prior art.

Thus, for a fabric with a lower surface mass, therefore for a lighter and more comfortable fabric, the FABRIC 2 according to the invention has properties of mechanical strength and fire resistance superior to the FABRIC 0 according to the prior art, free of aromatic polyester yarns and higher basis weight.

EXAMPLE 3 : a) Preparation of a fabric according to the invention: FABRIC 3

• Des fils de polyester aromatique, sous la forme de filaments continus, de titre 220 dtex, vendus sous la dénomination commerciale « Vectran^® »,
• Des fils de polyester aromatique, sous la forme de filaments continus, de titre 440 dtex, vendus sous la dénomination commerciale « Vectran^® »,
• des fils mélangeant 93% de fibres méta-aramide, 5% de fibres para-aramide et 2% de fibres antistatiques vendus sous la dénomination commerciale « Nomex^® N302 », de titre 60/1Nm,
• -des fils mélangeant 93% de fibres méta-aramide, 5% de fibres para-aramide et 2% de fibres antistatiques vendus sous la dénomination commerciale « Nomex^® N302 », de titre 70/2Nm.

A fabric according to the invention, hereinafter referenced FABRIC 3, is manufactured, comprising the following yarns:

• Aromatic polyester yarns, in the form of continuous filaments, with a count of 220 dtex, sold under the trade name "Vectran ^® ",
• Aromatic polyester yarns, in the form of continuous filaments, with a count of 440 dtex, sold under the trade name "Vectran ^® ",
• yarns mixing 93% meta-aramid fibers, 5% para-aramid fibers and 2% antistatic fibers sold under the trade name "Nomex ^® N302", with a title of 60/1Nm,
• yarns mixing 93% meta-aramid fibers, 5% para-aramid fibers and 2% antistatic fibers sold under the trade name “ ^Nomex® N302”, with a title of 70/2Nm.

The weaving weave used to craft CLOTH 3 is shown in the Figure 3 , according to a diagram of the same type as in Figure 1 .

On this picture 3 , are represented the threads 5 of "Vectran ^® " with a count of 220 dtex, the threads 6 of "Vectran ^® " with a count of 440 dtex, the threads 7 of "Nomex ^® N302" with a count of 70/2Nm and the threads 8 of "Nomex ^® N302” with a titer of 60/1Nm.

As shown in this figure, the yarns 5 of “Vectran ^® ” with a count of 220 dtex are present in the weave of the warp fabric and the yarns 6 of “Vectran ^® ” with a count of 440 dtex are present in the weft. The yarns 7 of “Nomex® ^N302 ” with a count of 70/2Nm are present in the warp weave and the yarns 8 of “Nomex® ^N302 ” with a count of 60/1Nm are present in the weft.

This weaving weave means that the “Vectran ^® ” threads (5, 6) are linked to the other threads, here the “Nomex ^® N302” threads (7, 8), by binding points which are present at the heart of the fabric and/or on the back, but which are absent on the front. Moreover, according to this weaving weave, only the “ ^Vectran® ” yarns 5, which form the warp yarns of the back of the fabric, are bonded to the “ ^Nomex® N302” yarns forming the face of the fabric. The “ ^Vectran® ” threads 6, which form the weft threads on the back of the fabric, are not bonded to the “ ^Nomex® N302” threads forming the front side of the fabric. Thus, the threads (5, 6) of "Vectran ^® " do not appear on the face of the fabric.

This is particularly noticeable from Figures 4 and 5 which are respectively cross-sectional views perpendicular to the weft threads of the fabric made with the weave of the Figure 3 , respectively according to section plane II and section plane II-II indicated on the Figure 3 . As seen in these figures, the son (5, 6) of "Vectran ^® " do not appear on the face of the fabric, where only the son (7,8) of "Nomex ^® N302" are visible.

The mass percentage of aromatic polyester yarns, in other words " ^Vectran® " is 21.5% by mass, relative to the total mass of the fabric.

FABRIC 3 has a surface weight of 230 g/m ² .

The mechanical strength and fire resistance properties of FABRIC 3 were compared to those of the fabric of the prior art described in EXAMPLE 1, namely FABRIC 0. The tests of the present example were carried out according to the same protocols than those of EXAMPLE 1.

b) Comparison of mechanical properties :

The results obtained are recorded in Table 5 below: [Table 5] FABRIC 0 (comparative) CLOTH 3 (invention) Surface mass (g/m ² ) 240 230 Chain mechanical resistance (daN/5cm) 160 250 Weft mechanical resistance (daN/5 cm) 130 250 Chain tear resistance (daN) 18 15 Weft tear strength (daN) 14 40

Table 5: mechanical strength properties for FABRIC 0 and FABRIC 3

As can be seen from this table, for a lower basis weight, therefore a lighter and more comfortable fabric, the fabric according to the invention TISSUE 3 has mechanical strength properties far superior to those of the fabric according to the prior art TISSUE 0 not including aromatic polyester yarn.

In particular, in the present example, the mechanical strength in weft of FABRIC 3 is almost twice that of FABRIC 0. Furthermore, the tearing resistance in weft for FABRIC 3 is practically 3 times higher than that of FABRIC 0.

c) Comparison of abrasion resistance :

The abrasion resistance was evaluated for FABRIC 0 and FABRIC 3 according to the ISO 12947-2 standard: in this test, a circular specimen (diameter of at least 38mm), fixed in a specimen holder and subjected to a defined load, is rubbed against an abrasive material (standard cloth) in a translational movement describing a Lissajous curve (cycle).

The individual test results are expressed as the number of rubs corresponding to the control interval preceding the reaching of the stopping point, for each specimen (stopping point = 2 broken threads).

The test was performed on the face of the fabrics tested.

The results obtained are recorded in Table 6 below: <u>[Table 6]</u> FABRIC 0 (comparative) CLOTH 3 (invention) Abrasion resistance (number of cycles) 100,000 125,000

Table 6: abrasion resistance properties for FABRIC 0 and FABRIC 3

As emerges from this table, the FABRIC 3 according to the invention has a resistance to abrasion on its face which is much higher than that of the FABRIC 0 of the prior art.

d) Comparison of fire resistance properties :

• Une première couche formée du TISSU 3,
• Une deuxième couche composée d'un tissu complexé avec une membrane,
• Une troisième couche composée elle-même de deux couches : une première couche constituée d'un mélange de 93% de fibres meta aramide, 5% de fibres para aramide et 2% de fibres antistatiques, vendu sous la dénomination commerciale « Nomex^® Confort E502 » par la société DuPont de Nemours, de titre 70/2 Nm, et une deuxième couche constituée de 100% de fibres de meta aramide assemblées en 4 bouts de 60/2 Nm, produit vendu sous la dénomination commerciale « Nomex^® T450 » par la société DuPont de Nemours.

A multilayer complex was prepared comprising the fabric according to the invention TISSUE 3 (hereinafter referred to as CM TISSU 3) composed of:

• A first layer formed of FABRIC 3,
• A second layer composed of a fabric complexed with a membrane,
• A third layer itself composed of two layers: a first layer consisting of a mixture of 93% meta aramid fibers, 5% para aramid fibers and 2% antistatic fibers, sold under the trade name "Nomex ^® Comfort E502 » by the company DuPont de Nemours, with a 70/2 Nm title, and a second layer consisting of 100% meta aramid fibers assembled in 4 ends of 60/2 Nm, product sold under the trade name “ ^Nomex® T450” by the company DuPont de Nemours.

The fire resistance properties were measured according to the same protocols as in EXAMPLE 1 and compared with those of the multilayer complex integrating the TISSU 0 of the prior art (CM TISSU 0) of EXAMPLE 1.

The results obtained are recorded in Table 7 below: [Table 7] CM TISSUE 0 (comparative) CM TISSUE 3 (invention) Radiant fire test HRTI _24-12 = 5.3 HRTI _24-12 = 5.3 HRTI ₂₄ = 17.6 HRTI ₂₄ = 17.9 Convective fire test HTI _24-12 = 4.3 HTI _24-12 = 4.2 HTI ₂₄ = 13.3 HTI ₂₄ = 14.8

Table 7: fire resistance properties for CM TISSU 0 and CM TISSU 3

As it appears from the table above, the thermal performances with radiant heat are equivalent between the complex integrating the FABRIC 0 and the complex integrating the FABRIC 3. The convective heat performances of the complex integrating the FABRIC 3 according to the invention are superior to those of the complex integrating TISSUE 0 of the prior art.

Thus, for a fabric with a lower surface mass, therefore for a lighter and more comfortable fabric, the FABRIC 3 according to the invention has properties of mechanical strength and fire resistance superior to the FABRIC 0 according to the prior art, free of aromatic polyester yarns and higher basis weight.

The fabrics according to the invention of the examples above, namely FABRIC 1, FABRIC 2 and FABRIC 3 can be used for the manufacture of personal protective clothing, in particular anti-fire, such as for example clothing for firefighters. In particular, these fabrics can form at least an outer part of said garment, the face of the fabrics according to the invention forming the outer surface of said garment, which thus has excellent abrasion resistance.

EXAMPLE 4 : a) Preparation of a fabric according to the invention: FABRIC 4

• Des fils de polyester aromatique, sous la forme de filaments continus, de titre 220 dtex, vendus sous la dénomination commerciale « Vectran^® » ; ces fils sont guipés avec 2 fils de Polyamide 11dtex.
• Des fils de polyester aromatique, sous la forme de filaments continus, de titre 440 dtex, vendus sous la dénomination commerciale « Vectran^® »,
• des fils mélangeant 93% de fibres méta-aramide, 5% de fibres para-aramide et 2% de fibres antistatiques vendus sous la dénomination commerciale « Nomex^® N302 », de titre 60/1Nm.
• des fils mélangeant 93% de fibres méta-aramide, 5% de fibres para-aramide et 2% de fibres antistatiques vendus sous la dénomination commerciale « Nomex^® N302 », de titre 70/2Nm.

A fabric according to the invention, hereinafter referenced FABRIC 4, is manufactured, comprising the following yarns:

• Yarns of aromatic polyester, in the form of continuous filaments, with a count of 220 dtex, sold under the trade name “ ^Vectran® ”; these threads are covered with 2 threads of Polyamide 11dtex.
• Aromatic polyester yarns, in the form of continuous filaments, with a count of 440 dtex, sold under the trade name "Vectran ^® ",
• yarns mixing 93% of meta-aramid fibers, 5% of para-aramid fibers and 2% of antistatic fibers sold under the trade name “ ^Nomex® N302”, with a title of 60/1Nm.
• yarns mixing 93% of meta-aramid fibers, 5% of para-aramid fibers and 2% of antistatic fibers sold under the trade name “ ^Nomex® N302”, with a title of 70/2Nm.

The weaving weave used to make CLOTH 4 is shown on the Figure 6 , according to a diagram of the same type as in Figure 1 .

On this Figure 6 , are represented the threads 9 of "Vectran ^® " with a count of 220 dtex covered with 2 polyamide threads, the threads 10 of "Vectran ^® " with a count of 440 dtex, the threads 11 of "Nomex ^® N302" with a count of 70/2Nm, and the yarns 12 of “Nomex® ^N302 ” with a titer of 60/1Nm.

As shown in this figure, the yarns 9 of “ ^Vectran® ” with a count of 220 dtex are present in the weave of the warp fabric and the yarns 10 of “ ^Vectran® ” with a count of 440 dtex are present in the weft. The threads 11 of "Nomex ^® N302" with a count of 70/2Nm are present in the weave both in warp threads and in weft threads and the threads 12 of "Nomex ^® N302" with a count of 60/1Nm are present in weft weave.

The "Nomex ^® N302" threads (11, 12) form the face of the fabric, the "Vectran ^® " threads (9, 10) forming the back.

This weaving weave means that the "Vectran ^® " yarns 9 with a count of 220 dtex, which are present in the weave of the warp fabric, are linked to the "Nomex ^® N302" yarns (11, 12) by points of binding which are present in the core of the fabric and/or on the reverse side, but which are absent on the front side. Furthermore, the “ ^Vectran® ” yarns 10 with a count of 440 dtex, which are present in the weft, are not linked to the “ ^Nomex® N302” yarns in the face.

Thus, the threads (9, 10) of "Vectran ^® " do not appear on the face of the fabric.

The mass percentage of aromatic polyester yarns, in other words " ^Vectran® " is 21% by mass, relative to the total mass of the fabric.

FABRIC 4 has a surface weight of 240 g/m ² .

The mechanical strength and fire resistance properties of FABRIC 4 were compared to those of the fabric of the prior art described in EXAMPLE 1, namely FABRIC 0. The tests of the present example were carried out according to the same protocols than those of EXAMPLE 1.

b) Comparison of mechanical properties :

The results obtained are recorded in Table 8 below: <u>Table</u> 8: mechanical strength properties for FABRIC 0 and FABRIC 4 FABRIC 0 (comparative) CLOTH 4 (invention) Surface mass (g/m ² ) 240 240 Chain mechanical resistance (daN/5cm) 160 287 Weft mechanical resistance (daN/5 cm) 130 295 Chain tear resistance (daN) 18 22 Weft tear strength (daN) 14 40

As emerges from this table, for an equivalent basis weight, the fabric according to the invention TISSUE 4 has mechanical strength properties much higher than those of the fabric according to the prior art TISSUE 0 not comprising any aromatic polyester yarn.

In particular, in the present example, the mechanical resistances in warp and in weft of FABRIC 4 are particularly higher than those of FABRIC 0. Furthermore, the tear resistance in weft for FABRIC 4 is practically 3 times higher than that of TISSUE 0.

c) Comparison of fire resistance properties :

• A multilayer complex comprising the fabric according to the invention TISSU 4 (hereinafter referred to as CM TISSU 4) composed of:
  • A first layer formed of FABRIC 4,
  • A second layer composed of a fabric complexed with a membrane,
  • A third layer itself composed of two layers: a first layer consisting of a mixture of 93% meta aramid fibers, 5% para aramid fibers and 2% antistatic fibers, sold under the trade name "Nomex ^® Comfort E502 by DuPont de Nemours, with a titer of 70/2 Nm, and a second layer consisting of 100% meta aramid fibers assembled in 4 ends of 60/2 Nm, product sold under the trade name "Nomex ^® T450" by the DuPont de Nemours company.

The fire resistance properties were measured according to the same protocols as in EXAMPLE 1 and compared with those of the multilayer complex integrating the TISSU 0 of the prior art (CM TISSU 0) of EXAMPLE 1.

The results obtained are recorded in Table 9 below: <u>Table</u> 9: fire resistance properties for CM TISSU 0 and CM TISSU 4 CM TISSUE 0 (comparative) CM TISSUE 4 (invention) Radiant fire test HRTI _24-12 = 5.3 HRTI _24-12 = 6.1 HRTI ₂₄ = 17.6 HRTI ₂₄ = 20.0 Convective fire test HTI _24-12 = 4.3 HTI _24-12 = 4.6 HTI ₂₄ = 13.3 HTI ₂₄ = 14.7

As appears from the above table, the performance to convective heat and to radiant heat of the complex integrating the TISSUE 4 according to the invention are superior to those of the complex integrating the TISSUE 0 of the prior art.

Thus, for a fabric of equivalent surface mass, the FABRIC 4 according to the invention has properties of mechanical resistance and fire resistance superior to the FABRIC 0 according to the prior art, free of aromatic polyester yarns and of higher surface mass. .

d) Evolution of mechanical properties after several washes

In order to compare and study the mechanical performance of TISSU 4 after washing, samples of the latter were subjected to several washing cycles, a washing cycle being defined by washing in a washing machine at 60°C followed by drum drying.

• 0 cycles de lavage,
• 15 cycles de lavage,
• 30 cycles de lavage.

The mechanical strength properties were thus measured, according to the same protocols as those of EXAMPLE 1, for samples of TISSU 4 having undergone:

• 0 wash cycles,
• 15 wash cycles,
• 30 wash cycles.

The results are recorded in Table 10 below: <u>Table 10</u>: mechanical resistance of FABRIC 4 according to the number of washing cycles FABRIC 4 Number of wash cycles Chain mechanical resistance (daN/5cm) Weft mechanical strength (daN/5cm) 0 287 295 15 283 274 30 294 278

As it appears from the table above, the mechanical resistances in warp and the mechanical resistances in weft are preserved during the washing cycles.

TISSU 4 therefore makes it possible to ensure the stability of the mechanical performance of the garments throughout their lifespan.

Furthermore, the “ ^Nomex® N302” yarns, which form the face of FABRIC 4, are in the form of fiber yarns. The “Vectran ^® ” yarns, which form the back, are in the form of continuous filaments.

As it appears from the results above, the weaving weave of FABRIC 4 makes it possible to balance the potential differential shrinkages which could appear after several washes, between the face made up of fiber yarns and the back made up of continuous filaments. Thus, the fabric has a very good appearance after washing and has a durability of its mechanical performance, even after a large number of washing cycles.

EXAMPLE 5 : a) Preparation of a fabric according to the invention: FABRIC 5

• Des fils de polyester aromatique, sous la forme de filaments continus, de titre 220 dtex, vendus sous la dénomination commerciale « Vectran^® », ces fils sont guipés avec 2 fils de Polyamide 11dtex.
• Des fils de polyester aromatique, sous la forme de filaments continus, de titre 440 dtex, vendus sous la dénomination commerciale « Vectran^® »,
• Des fils mélangeant 93% de fibres méta-aramide, 5% de fibres para-aramide et 2% de fibres antistatiques vendus sous la dénomination commerciale « Nomex^® N302 », de titre 70/2Nm.

A fabric according to the invention, hereinafter referenced FABRIC 5, is manufactured, comprising the following yarns:

• Yarns of aromatic polyester, in the form of continuous filaments, with a count of 220 dtex, sold under the trade name “ ^Vectran® ”, these yarns are covered with 2 yarns of Polyamide 11 dtex.
• Aromatic polyester yarns, in the form of continuous filaments, with a count of 440 dtex, sold under the trade name "Vectran ^® ",
• Yarns mixing 93% meta-aramid fibers, 5% para-aramid fibers and 2% antistatic fibers sold under the trade name “ ^Nomex® N302”, with a title of 70/2Nm.

The weaving weave used to make CLOTH 5 is shown on the Picture 7 , according to a diagram of the same type as in Figure 1 .

On this Picture 7 , are shown the yarns 13 of “Vectran ^® ” with a count of 220 dtex wrapped with 2 polyamide yarns, the yarns 14 of “Vectran ^® ” with a count of 440 dtex and the threads 15 of “Nomex ^® N302” with a count of 70/2 Nm.

As shown in this figure, the yarns 13 of “Vectran ^® ” with a count of 220 dtex are present in the weave of the warp fabric and the yarns 14 of “Vectran ^® ” with a count of 440 dtex are present in the weft. The “ ^Nomex® N302” yarns 15 are present in the weave both as warp yarns and as weft yarns.

The threads 15 of “Nomex® ^N302 ” form the face of the fabric, the threads (13, 14) of “ ^Vectran® ” forming the back.

This weaving weave means that the "Vectran ^® " yarns 13 with a count of 220 dtex, which are present in the weave of the warp fabric, are linked to the "Nomex ^® N302" yarns 15 by binding points which are present in the middle of the fabric and/or on the back, but which are absent on the front. Furthermore, the “ ^Vectran® ” yarns 14 with a count of 440 dtex, which are present in the weft, are not linked to the “ ^Nomex® N302” yarns in the face.

Thus, the son (13, 14) of "Vectran ^® " do not appear on the face of the fabric.

The mass percentage of aromatic polyester yarns, in other words " ^Vectran® " is 22% by mass, relative to the total mass of the fabric.

FABRIC 5 has a surface weight of 240 g/m ² .

The mechanical strength and fire resistance properties of FABRIC 5 were compared to those of the fabric of the prior art described in EXAMPLE 1, namely FABRIC 0. The tests of the present example were carried out according to the same protocols than those of EXAMPLE 1.

b) Comparison of mechanical properties :

The results obtained are recorded in the following Table 11: <u>Table</u> 11: mechanical strength properties for FABRIC 0 and FABRIC 5 FABRIC 0 (comparative) CLOTH 5 (invention) Surface mass (g/m ² ) 240 240 Chain mechanical resistance (daN/5cm) 160 288 Weft mechanical resistance (daN/5 cm) 130 247 Chain tear resistance (daN) 18 20 Weft tear strength (daN) 14 40

As emerges from this table, at an equivalent mass, the fabric according to the invention TISSUE 5 has mechanical strength properties that are much higher than those of the fabric according to the prior art TISSUE 0 not comprising any aromatic polyester yarn.

In particular, in the present example, the mechanical resistances in warp and weft of FABRIC 5 are particularly higher than those of FABRIC 0. Furthermore, the tear resistance in weft for FABRIC 5 is practically 3 times higher than that of TISSUE 0.

c) Comparison of fire resistance properties :

• Une première couche formée du TISSU 5,
• Une deuxième couche composée d'un tissu complexé avec une membrane,
• Une troisième couche composée elle-même de deux couches : une première couche constituée d'un mélange de 93% de fibres meta aramide, 5% de fibres para aramide et 2% de fibres antistatiques, vendu sous la dénomination commerciale « Nomex^® Confort E502 » par la société DuPont de Nemours, de titre 70/2 Nm, et une deuxième couche constituée de 100% de fibres de meta aramide assemblées en 4 bouts de 60/2 Nm, produit vendu sous la dénomination commerciale « Nomex^® T450 » par la société DuPont de Nemours.

A multilayer complex comprising the fabric according to the invention TISSU 5 (hereinafter referred to as CM TISSU 5) composed of:

• A first layer formed of FABRIC 5,
• A second layer composed of a fabric complexed with a membrane,
• A third layer itself composed of two layers: a first layer consisting of a mixture of 93% meta aramid fibers, 5% para aramid fibers and 2% antistatic fibers, sold under the trade name "Nomex ^® Comfort E502 by DuPont de Nemours, with a titer of 70/2 Nm, and a second layer consisting of 100% meta aramid fibers assembled in 4 ends of 60/2 Nm, product sold under the trade name "Nomex ^® T450" by the DuPont de Nemours company.

The fire resistance properties were measured according to the same protocols as in EXAMPLE 1 and compared with those of the multilayer complex integrating the TISSU 0 of the prior art (CM TISSU 0) of EXAMPLE 1.

The results obtained are recorded in Table 12 below: <u>Table</u> 12: fire resistance properties for CM TISSU 0 and CM TISSU 5 CM TISSUE 0 (comparative) CM TISSUE 5 (invention) Radiant fire test HRTI _24-12 = 5.3 HRTI _24-12 = 6.1 HRTI ₂₄ = 17.6 HRTI ₂₄ = 20.4 Convective fire test HTI _24-12 = 4.3 HTI _24-12 = 4.9 HTI ₂₄ = 13.3 HTI ₂₄ = 15.1

As it appears from the table above, the performances to convective heat and to radiant heat of the complex integrating the TISSUE 5 according to the invention are superior to those of the complex integrating the TISSUE 0 of the prior art.

Thus, for a fabric of equivalent surface mass, the FABRIC 5 according to the invention has properties of mechanical resistance and fire resistance superior to the FABRIC 0 according to the prior art, free of aromatic polyester threads.

d) Evolution of mechanical properties after several washes

In order to compare and study the mechanical performance of the FABRIC 5 after washing, samples of the latter were subjected to several washing cycles, a washing cycle being defined by washing in a washing machine at 60°C followed by drum drying.

• 0 cycles de lavage,
• 15 cycles de lavage,
• 30 cycles de lavage.

The mechanical strength properties were thus measured, according to the same protocols as those of EXAMPLE 1, for samples of TISSUE 5 having undergone:

• 0 wash cycles,
• 15 wash cycles,
• 30 wash cycles.

The results are recorded in Table 13 below: <u>Table</u> 13: mechanical resistance of FABRIC 5 according to the number of washing cycles FABRIC 5 Number of wash cycles Chain mechanical resistance (daN/5cm) Weft mechanical strength (daN/5cm) 0 288 247 15 278 271 30 283 292

As shown in the table above, the mechanical chain performance is maintained after 30 washing cycles. The mechanical weft performance is markedly improved after these same washing cycles. This can be explained by a phenomenon of tension balancing between the different yarns during successive washes.

This TISSU 5 therefore makes it possible to ensure stability of the mechanical performance of the garments throughout their lifespan.

Furthermore, the “ ^Nomex® N302” yarns, which form the face of FABRIC 5, are in the form of fiber yarns. The “Vectran ^® ” yarns, which form the back, are in the form of continuous filaments.

As it appears from the results above, the weaving weave of FABRIC 5 makes it possible to balance the potential differential shrinkages which could appear after several washes, between the face made up of fiber yarns and the back made up of continuous filaments. Thus, the fabric has a very good appearance after washing and has a durability of its mechanical performance, even after a large number of washing cycles.

Claims (15)

1. A fabric comprising an arrangement of yarns disposed in a weaving pattern forming a face of the fabric and a reverse side of the fabric, said arrangement of yarns comprising one or several warp yarn(s) and one or several weft yarn(s), characterized in that at least one of said warp yarns and of said weft yarns is an aromatic polyester yarn (1; 3; 5, 6; 9, 10; 13,14), the other yarns (2; 4; 7, 8; 11, 12; 15) being made of a material other than the aromatic polyester, said aromatic polyester yarn being bonded to the other yarns within the weaving pattern such that this aromatic polyester yarn (1; 3; 5, 6; 9, 10; 13, 14) does not appear on the face of the fabric.
2. The fabric according to claim 1, characterized in that any aromatic polyester yarn (1; 3; 5, 6; 9, 10; 13, 14) present in said fabric is bonded to the other yarns (2; 4; 7, 8; 11, 12; 15) within the weaving pattern such that this aromatic polyester yarn does not appear on the face of the fabric.
3. The fabric according to claim 1 or 2 comprising at least two said aromatic polyester yarns (1; 3; 5, 6; 9, 10; 13, 14).
4. The fabric according to claim 3, characterized in that such a first aromatic polyester yarn is a warp yarn (1; 3; 5; 9; 13) and that such a second aromatic polyester yarn is a weft yarn (6; 10; 14).
5. The fabric according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that all of the binding points of the aromatic polyester yarn or yarns with the other yarns are located within the fabric and/or on the reverse side of the fabric.
6. The fabric according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said aromatic polyester yarns (3; 5, 6; 9, 10; 13, 14) forming the warp yarns and the weft yarns of the reverse side of the fabric, the other yarns (4; 7, 8; 11, 12; 15) forming the warp yarns and the weft yarns of the face of the fabric, only the aromatic polyester yarns forming the warp yarns (3; 5; 9; 13) in the reverse side of the fabric are bound to the other yarns by binding points.
7. The fabric according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said aromatic polyester yarns (1; 3; 5, 6; 9, 10; 13, 14) are present in said fabric in a proportion ranging from 10% to 25% by mass, preferably from 17% to 22% by mass, more preferably from 18% to 22% by mass, relative to the total mass of said fabric.
8. The fabric according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said aromatic polyester yarns are selected from fiber threads of aromatic polyester (1), continuous filaments of aromatic polyester (3; 5, 6, 9, 10; 13, 14) and mixtures thereof.
9. The fabric according to claim 8, characterized in that the fiber threads of aromatic polyester (1) have a count ranging from 36/2Nm (555 dtex) to 70/2Nm (266 dtex), preferably equal to 36/2Nm (555 dtex).
10. The fabric according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that the continuous filaments of aromatic polyester (3; 5, 6, 9, 10; 13, 14) have a count ranging from 110 dtex to 880 dtex, preferably from 220 dtex to 440 dtex.
11. The fabric according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that one or several of said aromatic polyester yarns is a snapped yarn (1).
12. The fabric according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that one or several of said aromatic polyester yarns is a yarn wrapped with a polyamide yarn (3).
13. The fabric according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the yarns (2; 4; 7, 8, 11, 12; 15) other than the aromatic polyester yarns are selected from yarns made up of fibers selected from metaaramid fibers, para-aramid fibers, antistatic fibers, cellulosic fibers and mixtures of these fibers.
14. The fabric according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that its basis weight ranges from 210 g/m² to 260 g/m², preferably from 220 g/m² to 250 g/m².
15. A personal protective clothing, which is in particular fire-resistant, comprising at least one fabric according to any one of the preceding claims forming at least an outer portion of said clothing.

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