Leather (leatherette): what is this material, types, application

Artificial leather is made from multilayer polymeric materials. The basis is knitted fabric, tarpaulin or non-woven fabric. The material is impregnated with special compositions to increase strength, insulation from moisture. Layers of polymer coating are applied to the base. They imitate the structure and texture of natural leather. On the front side of the leatherette is a decorative polymer layer, and on the underside - fabric.

Types of faux leather

The leatherette differs in stiffness, thickness and durability:

• By structure, this artificial material can be porous, monolithic.
• A polymer layer is applied to the textile material. Leather substitute is made without a fabric backing. It can be with reinforcing reinforcement.
• In terms of rigidity, the leatherette is soft, with a fibrous structure or harder and extra rigid. It can be elastic or non-stretchable.

The properties of leatherette are influenced by what polymer dominates the composition. Artificial leather is made from these polymers:

• PVC-polyvinyl chloride.
• Vinyl.
• Polyurethane.
• Nitrocellulose.
• Polyamide.
• Rubbers and miscellaneous blends.
• Polyester.

The characteristics of leatherette are influenced by the physical and chemical properties of polymers and other additives. Such a material can have the following features, depending on the composition:

• This material is resistant to high and low temperatures.
• The leatherette material may not be altered by vibration, deformation or abrasion.
• The material is resistant to chemical attack or ultraviolet light.
• The leatherette is tear resistant.
• The material is vapor and air tight.
• Leatherette is antistatic or electrically conductive.
• Leatherette absorbs noise.
• Material is flammable or fireproof.
• Leatherette is water resistant or hygroscopic.

Application of leatherette

PVC leatherette is common, it is called dermantine. It is a durable, heavy and easy to maintain material. However, it is not permeable to air and vapors, it is not suitable for making clothes. It is used for upholstery of doors, seats in public places.

Artificial leather made of polyurethane is porous, transmits moisture and air. The material is plastic, not cold, to the touch resembles natural skin. It does not deteriorate from temperature fluctuations, sun rays, hypoallergenic. It is used for making bags, vests, jackets.

Eco leather is a type of leather substitute made of polyurethane in combination with polyester. It is made in a variety of colors. It is very close in properties to natural leather. Eco leather is used to cover furniture, in the automotive industry, in the manufacture of shoes. Soft, breathable artificial leather is suitable for sewing different types of clothing. It is used to create decorative interior decorations, book covers, cases and covers for various products.

High-quality artificial leather is durable, it retains an attractive appearance for a long time. When it is used in the manufacture of furniture, bags and other things, it significantly reduces their price, because leather products are much more expensive.

It is very important that the leatherette is from a reliable manufacturer. It does not have a sharp persistent chemical odor. A slight odor is acceptable, but it should quickly evaporate. You can read reviews on the internet about the different faux leather materials. This will help to determine what they are like in use.