Artificial leather comparison

What is polyurethane fabric?

 

Polyurethane is a resin most commonly used for coating various surfaces. Polyurethane is used in a number of forms in, for example, glues, paints, lacquers and even in certain types of foam plastic. Although it is a plastic, polyurethane is an extremely breathing material, scratch-proof and does not absorb heat. Owing to these properties, polyurethane is also used in a wide variety of products such as mattresses, sportswear, handbags, accessories and furniture.

The fact that polyurethane can be moulded makes it a suitable surface for various printing. This is why polyurethane is used to make faux leather that looks and feels like real leather.

But unlike real leather, polyurethane does not crumble, break or become damaged in the sun under normal conditions. Polyurethane is easier to clean, and is cheaper than real leather.

What is vinyl fabric or PVC?

 

A vinyl fabric is made of two synthetic materials. The fibres of the fabric are made from strong polyester fibres. The fibres are coated with vinyl, made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and a softener, phthalic acid. This compound – vinyl – is melted on the surface of the polyester fibres. This creates a sealed and practically waterproof surface that is durable and flexible.

Thanks to the treatment, the vinyl fabric, or PVC, is a durable and waterproof fabric, and stiffer than a polyurethane fabric. Among the many applications of vinyl fabric are commercial marine environments, healthcare, laboratories, vehicle upholstery and industrial protective gear.

Differences in the materials

 

Structure: as explained above, polyurethane and vinyl fabrics differ from each other structurally. A vinyl fabric has more layers under the coating, making it stronger and more durable. A polyurethane fabric has fewer layers, making it more pliable and easier to work with. A polyurethane fabric may become wrinkled or discoloured like real leather, while vinyl fabric is more durable and withstands various weather conditions better.

Breathability: Of the two, polyurethane is a material that breathes better, because the vinyl fabric has a layer of foam under the surface and the coating. This is why polyurethane fabric is a more suitable material for clothing than vinyl fabric. However, polyurethane fabric has a porous surface, meaning it gets more easily stained and attracts more unwanted particles. This is why upholstery is typically made with vinyl fabric.

Durability : The multilayer structure and non-porous surface of vinyl fabric makes it more durable than polyurethane fabric. This is why vinyl fabric is typically used in upholstery and footwear. Using a vinyl fabric may double the product’s usable life.