Lightweight covering fabric, especially for spinnakers.

Abstract

The present invention relates to a fabric for lightweight sailing sails for sailing ships and other watercraft, such as spinnakers, asymmetric spinnakers, and gennakers, in which the fabric is formed from continuous polyester warp and weft threads, and one or both of the two surfaces of the fabric are coated with a crosslinked polymer, the polyester being poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) having a tenacity of 6 cN / dtex or more, the fabric has a density of 20 to 50 threads / cm for the warp and weft threads, the polymer being a crosslinked polyurethane (PU) based on polyether, polyester, or polycarbonate, and the PU being: (1) a crosslinked polyurethane (PU) based on polyether, polyester, or polycarbonate, in accordance with standard DIN 101444; The present invention relates to a fabric for light sailing sails, characterized in that the fabric is derived from (2) crosslinking of a single component polyurethane elastomer used in a solvent phase implementation, the single component polyurethane elastomer having a modulus at 100% elongation of 1-15 MPa, more preferably 2-15 MPa, specifically 6-15 MPa, according to US Pat. No. 53504, with a crosslinking agent based on a ratio of dry crosslinking agent to dry elastomer of 20% to 75% by weight, specifically approximately 30% to approximately 75% by weight. The bias direction elongation of the covered fabric under 20 Lbs is 10-30 percent of an inch.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a lightweight fabric formed from continuous warp and weft threads, wherein one and / or both of the two surfaces of the fabric are coated with polyurethane. The application fields of this lightweight fabric specifically include lightweight headsails for sailboats and other watercraft, such as spinnakers, asymmetric spinnakers, and genakers. The present invention also relates to a fabric manufacturing method for manufacturing this fabric.

Background Art

[0002] When a spinnaker is inflated by the wind, it must have a very precise aerodynamic shape. Therefore, in order to facilitate inflation and maintain an ideal shape and form, the use of a rigid fabric is preferred. The rigidity of the fabric is disadvantageous in that the resulting fabric leads to breakage under high stress, causing breakage or rupture of the spinnaker. Traditionally, the use of fabrics made from polyamide 6.6-based textiles is preferred. Such textiles have an impact absorption ability due to the high elasticity and tenacity of polyamide 6.6. However, this polyamide has certain drawbacks. Polyamide 6.6 is a hydrophilic polymer, and hydrophilic polymers tend to cause fibers to absorb water. Spinnakers made from polyamide 6.6-based fibers thus tend to become heavier and age prematurely under the combined action of UV rays and hydrolysis. In this regard, polyester-based fabrics that are less sensitive to water uptake have been found to be too rigid to be actually used on sails such as spinnakers. High-tenacity polyester fibers, preferably polyethylene terephthalate fibers, which are presumed to provide higher tear resistance, have not actually been used in spinnakers. The rather high rigidity of the sails thus manufactured makes the sails prone to breakage and rupture under high stress.

[0003] Another drawback of the fabric used for spinnakers is that it is not suitable for accommodating durable decorations after the sails have been made, specifically using modern printing techniques. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0004] The object of the present invention is to correct the shortcomings of the prior art by providing a fabric made from polyester fibers that exhibits tear resistance and has modulus and elasticity that enables the use of such fabrics in the manufacture and use of lightweight headsails for sailing ships and other watercraft, such as spinnakers, asymmetric spinnakers, and gennakers.

[0005] Another object of the present invention is to provide such a fabric that has a lower water absorption rate and higher hydrolysis resistance than existing solutions using polyamide fabric as a base material.

[0006] Another object of the present invention is to provide a fabric having high thermal stability that enables the fabric to be sublimated.

[0007] Further objectives become apparent upon reading the description of this invention. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] These and other objectives are achieved by a fabric formed from high-tenacity continuous polyester warp and weft threads. One or both of the two surfaces of the fabric are coated with crosslinked polyurethane (PU). The crosslinked PU according to the present invention can compensate for the excessive stiffness (extremely high modulus) and low elasticity of the fabric made from high-tenacity polyester fibers. The crosslinked polyurethane is flexible and therefore durable against the mechanical stresses to which the sail is subjected during its useful life. Preferably, the polyurethane is a polyether-based, polyester-based, or polycarbonate-based PU. A preferred polyurethane is a polycarbonate-based PU. According to another preferred feature, the PU is obtained from a single-component polyurethane elastomer. This elastomer is formed from a polyol segment (polyether, polyester, or polycarbonate), an isocyanate segment, and a chain extender or hydroxylated crosslinker known in itself. One important preferred feature is that the modulus of the elastomer in 100% elongation is approximately 15 MPa or less, specifically 1 to 15 MPa, according to standard DIN 53504. More favorably, this modulus is 2 to 15 MPa, specifically 6 to 15 MPa, actually more specifically 6 to 10 MPa, typically 6 to 9.5 MPa, for example approximately 8 MPa, according to standard DIN 53504. Another important preferred feature is that the elastomer is in a mixture with a crosslinking agent (which should not be confused with the crosslinking agent used to form the elastomer), and the ratio of the dry crosslinking agent to the dry elastomer is approximately 20% to approximately 75% by weight, more preferably approximately 30% to approximately 75% by weight, specifically approximately 40% to approximately 75% by weight, specifically approximately 50% to approximately 75% by weight (e.g., approximately 67%). The crosslinking agent specifically includes isocyanates, melamine, or mixtures of isocyanates and melamine. Specifically, this crosslinking agent blocks all or part of the reactive functional groups (specifically NCO and alcohol) remaining on the elastomer, forming additional bonds or crosslinks, and enabling the acquisition of a crosslinked PU that forms a fabric coating.The fabric according to the present invention is intended for, or can be used to form, lightweight headsails for sailing ships and other surface vessels, such as spinnakers, asymmetrical spinnakers, and gennakers. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The present invention specifically relates to a fabric for light sailing sails for sailing ships and other surface vessels, such as spinnakers, asymmetric spinnakers, and gennakers, wherein the fabric is formed from continuous polyester warp and weft threads, and one or both of the two surfaces of the fabric are coated with a cross-linked polymer, wherein the polyester is poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET), the density of the fabric is 20 to 50 threads / cm with respect to the warp and weft threads, preferably 25 to 50 threads / cm, the polymer is a cross-linked polyurethane (PU) which is polyether-based, polyester-based, or polycarbonate-based, preferably polycarbonate-based, and the PU conforms to (1) DIN standards. The present invention relates to a fabric for light sailing sails, characterized in that, according to 53504, the modulus at 100% elongation is approximately 15 MPa or less, specifically 1 to 15 MPa, specifically 2 to 15 MPa, more specifically 6 to 15 MPa, typically 6 to 10 MPa, for example 6 to 9.5 MPa, for example approximately 8 MPa, and (2) is derived from crosslinking by a crosslinking agent based on a ratio of approximately 20% to approximately 75% by weight, more preferably approximately 30% to approximately 75% by weight, specifically approximately 40% to approximately 75% by weight, specifically approximately 50% to approximately 75% by weight, of the dry crosslinking agent to the dry elastomer.

[0010] It is advantageous for the bias-direction elongation of the aforementioned coated fabric at 20 lbs to be 10 to 30 inches, preferably 14 to 25 inches, according to the standard NF EN ISO 13934-1. The combination of modulus and crosslinker ratio in the 100% elongation of the PU used within a given range specifically results in the ability to obtain such bias-direction elongation, enabling the fabric to be provided with the flexibility required for the application, which could never have been predicted given the intrinsic tenacity of the PET yarn. When the crosslinker ratio is in a lower value range, a higher modulus value range may be particularly preferable, and vice versa.

[0011] The ratio of the dry coating to the total dry fabric may be more than 5%, specifically 5% to 30% by weight, specifically 10% to 30% by weight, and more preferably 15% to 25% by weight. The ratio of the dry coating is the weight ratio of the dry coating (crosslinked PU) on the coated fabric, which represents the weight of the dried / crosslinked coating on the final fabric. The ratio of the dry coating referred to herein is understood to mean, as in the case, the total ratio of the coating on one surface or two surfaces.

[0012] Preferably, the polyester is poly(ethylene terephthalate) or PET. PET is formed from repeating units of ethylene terephthalate. However, the scope of the present invention also extends in practice to variants containing trace amounts of other units, e.g., less than 10 mol%, specifically less than 5 mol%, of other units per molecular chain of polyester (to form these other units, comonomers include, for example, isophthalic acid, naphthalenedicarboxylic acid, adipic acid, hydroxybenzoic acid, diethylene glycol, propylene glycol, trimellitic acid, and pentaerythritol).

[0013] Polyester yarn is a multifilament yarn. These yarns are formed from multiple continuous filaments. According to one embodiment, the fabric has 11 to 235 dtex, for example 22 to 110 dtex, specifically 22 to 78 dtex, and comprises warp and weft yarns, specifically having a DPF (decitex per filament) of 1 to 4, preferably 1.3 to 3.5.

[0014] The tenacity of PET yarn is specifically 6 cN / dtex or higher, specifically 6-7 cN / dtex. The elongation at break of PET is specifically 20% or higher, specifically 20-30%. Tenacity and elongation at break are measured according to the standard DIN EN ISO 2062.

[0015] PET fibers and yarns possessing these characteristics are commercially available and / or can be manufactured on order.

[0016] The polyester fiber may optionally contain one or more additives, such as stabilizers and / or antistatic agents.

[0017] One important characteristic is that the bare fabric has a weft density of 20-50 threads / cm, preferably 25-50 threads / cm, and a warp density of 20-50 threads / cm, preferably 25-50 threads / cm. It is preferable that the warp density is the same as the weft density. In a variation, the warp density may differ from the weft density, specifically by 10-30%, and either the warp density or the weft density, preferably the warp density, may have a higher value.

[0018] In one embodiment, the fabric has a hybrid structure and utilizes fibers or yarns with different counts for the warp and weft. Therefore, the fabric may include warp and weft yarns having dtex (count) values ​​of 11-235 dtex, specifically 22-110 dtex, specifically 22-78 dtex, with the warp yarns having a higher count than the weft yarns. An undesirable variation is when the weft yarns have a higher count. The term "higher" can be understood to mean that the yarn count in one direction is 1.5 or 2-5 times higher than the yarn count in the other direction.

[0019] The weight of the covering fabric is specifically 25-130 g / m². 2 Preferably 30-120 g / m² 2 That's fine.

[0020] The fabric of this invention is characterized by its stiffness in the bias direction. The bias is said to be the longitudinal direction, because it is measured along a direction 45° to the warp threads. Such stiffness in the bias direction is expressed in hundredths of an inch elongation. The elongation is measured under a force of 20 pounds (lbs, which is 89 N) applied along the bias. Such elongation characterizes the stiffness of the fabric in the bias direction. The standard used is NF EN ISO 13934-1. That is, a test specimen with a width of 76.2 mm and a length of 300 mm is prepared. The clamp jaws of the dynamometer are moved 152.4 mm apart from each other, and the measurement is performed at a speed of 50 mm / min. In the bias direction, by applying a 45° angle to the longitudinal direction of the fabric, a test specimen is cut from the fabric according to these dimensions, then two pieces of fabric are superimposed, and the action of the dynamometer is applied to them together. Elongation (hundredths of an inch) in the longitudinal and transverse directions is performed according to the same standard, and in this case a single piece of fabric is used.

[0021] The elongation in the bias direction of the coated fabric at 20 lbs may specifically be from 10% to 30% inches, preferably from 14% to 25% inches. This is a preferred target established by the present invention. Despite the fact that the flexible polyurethane coating enables such a target to be achieved, even though PET yarns having a high Young's modulus, generally 3 to 15 GPa, impart high rigidity and low elasticity to the fabric. Coated fabrics with a bias elongation of less than 10% inches are too rigid and have a risk of rupturing under high stress. Fabrics with a bias elongation of more than 30% inches become too flexible or soft, deteriorating the aerodynamic performance of sails, such as spinnakers.

[0022] The Young's modulus or modulus of elasticity characterizing polyester or PET fibers or yarns is a Pascal constant. The Pascal constant relates stress to the deformation generated by this stress when within the elastic range of the material. This is obtained by measuring the gradient at the origin of the force = f(deformation) curve. The elongation at break is (L - L0) / L0 × 100. L is the length at break and L_0 is the initial length of the sample.

[0023] The modulus at 100% elongation used to characterize an elastomer is no longer the Young's modulus but is equivalent to that measured at 100% elongation.

[0024] The fabric of the present invention is obtained by coating with polyurethane in a solvent phase. The coating may have any one of the following characteristics. First, the fabric may be coated on one or both sides, preferably on one side.

[0025] Polyurethane contains a rigid part (isocyanate) and a flexible part (polyol). To obtain a desired rigid elastomer characterized by the modulus at 100% elongation, it is obvious to those skilled in the art how to find the compromise point of the isocyanate / polyol ratio and the nature of the components. Preferably, the elastomer used in the coating is a single-component elastomer, and the isocyanate has reacted with the polyol and then with a chain extender or crosslinking agent to form an elastomer that still generally contains reactive functional groups, such as NCO and alcohol. Those skilled in the art can refer to the literature on the production of copolymers or elastomers obtained from isocyanates, polyols, and chain extenders or crosslinking agents, specifically These en Materiaux Polymeres et Composites [Papers on Polymer Materials and Composites] Segolene Hibon, Institut National de Sciences Appliquees - INSA [National Institute of Applied Sciences] Lyon, France, 2006.

[0026] The coating composition is supplemented with a crosslinking agent, specifically isocyanate, melamine, or a mixture of the two. The term "isocyanate" is understood to mean both isocyanates and polyisocyanates, either alone or as a mixture with one or more other isocyanates and / or polyisocyanates. Unless otherwise indicated, the term "isocyanate" should be understood herein to include the terms "isocyanate" and "polyisocyanate". Polyisocyanates are preferred. Regarding melamine, this may specifically be melamine in the strict sense (1,3,5-triazine-2,4,6-triamine), or a compound or resin containing melamine, such as a melamine-formaldehyde resin.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the ratio of the dry crosslinking agent to the dry elastomer is approximately 20% to approximately 75% by weight, more preferably approximately 30% to approximately 75% by weight, specifically approximately 40% to approximately 75% by weight, and specifically approximately 50% to approximately 75% by weight.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the polyurethane (and starting elastomer) is polyether-based. Specifically, the polyether-based polyurethane is linear or branched and comprises a polyether-type polyol moiety and an isocyanate moiety.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the polyurethane (and starting elastomer) is polyester-based. Specifically, the polyester-based polyurethane is linear or branched and comprises a polyester-type polyol portion and an isocyanate portion.

[0030] According to another embodiment, the polyurethane (and starting elastomer) is polycarbonate-based. Specifically, the polycarbonate-based polyurethane is linear or branched and comprises a polycarbonate-type polyol portion and an isocyanate portion. The polycarbonate-based polyurethane is used in the examples and constitutes a particularly preferred embodiment.

[0031] With respect to elastomers and crosslinking agents, the isocyanate portion is preferably aliphatic. In fact, aromatic isocyanates have the disadvantage of yellowing over time, which makes them undesirable even if they can be used.

[0032] In one embodiment, the lightweight fabric of the present invention is obtained by coating with polyurethane in a solvent phase. Such a fabric manufacturing method for producing a coated fabric from a polyester fabric is another subject of the present invention. The coating may have any one of the following characteristics.

[0033] The coating process is carried out using techniques conventionally used in textile coating, such as direct coating. The term "direct coating" is understood to mean a direct deposition coating process using a Meyer rod (or Champion process), for example, utilizing a doctor blade, cylinder, air knife, padder.

[0034] Another subject of the present invention is the use of a PU elastomer or crosslinked PU coating as defined herein to coat a high-tenacity PET fabric as defined herein. This coating is specifically intended to impart to the fabric one or more of the properties described herein, specifically the elongation in the bias direction as described herein. The coating also provides a suitable level of porosity for the intended application of the fabric. Such use can result in the following manufacturing method, which is another subject of the present invention.

[0035] The fabric manufacturing method for producing a covering fabric specifically involves the following steps: (a) Prepare a polyester fabric according to the present invention, (b) Using the polyurethane in the solvent phase according to the present invention, one or both of the two surfaces of the fabric are coated at the coating rate according to the present invention from a single-component elastomer in a mixture with a crosslinking agent described herein, preferably dissolved in the solvent, (c) Heat the fabric until the coating is dry and crosslinked, (d) Obtain a covering fabric according to the present invention, (e) Optionally, one or both of the two surfaces of the fabric are printed, for example, by sublimation. Includes the process.

[0036] The present invention specifically relates to a fabric manufacturing method for producing a covering type fabric, - Prepare a fabric, and make the fabric from poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) such that the density of the fabric is 20 to 50 threads / cm for the warp and weft, preferably 25 to 50 threads / cm. - A mixture of a single-component polyurethane elastomer having the above modulus in 100% elongation, a solvent for the elastomer, and a crosslinking agent is used to coat one or both of the two surfaces of the fabric, based on the ratio of the dry crosslinking agent to the dry elastomer. - Heat the fabric until the coating dries and crosslinks, - Obtain a covering fabric, - Optionally, one or both of the two surfaces of the fabric may be printed, for example, by sublimation. This relates to a fabric manufacturing method for producing a covering type fabric.

[0037] This method is intended for the manufacture of the above-mentioned fabric, and as a result, the characteristics of the elements used in the manufacture of the fabric and its coating can be applied to this method and to the selection of these elements for use in this method without needing to repeat them in the following sections.

[0038] Specifically, the drying and crosslinking process first involves drying at a temperature of approximately 90 to 120°C, and then crosslinking at a temperature of approximately 140 to 210°C.

[0039] In one embodiment, the method includes one or more post-treatment steps after the drying and crosslinking step to impart stain-resistant and / or water-repellent properties to the fabric. The term “stain-resistant” treatment is understood to mean a treatment using an antistatic and / or anti-tack product. The term “water-repellent” treatment is understood to mean a treatment using a fluorinated resin with or without a crosslinking agent for fluorinated resins, such as isocyanate. The drying / crosslinking step is carried out following the water-repellent treatment. In one embodiment, the post-treatment is carried out by any method known to those skilled in the art, specifically by padding, coating, spraying, or plasma treatment. The fabric may also be treated with silicone to improve its slipperiness.

[0040] According to one embodiment, the fabric is calendered before coating. Calendering compresses the fabric and spreads out the threads and constituent filaments. This helps to close the holes in the fabric and reduce its porosity. According to one embodiment, calendering is performed between a tool, cylinder, or calender roller and an opposing plate. The surface of the fabric that has passed through the calendering tool, also called the "calendered surface," is smoothed compared to other surfaces.

[0041] According to one method, the coating is applied to this calendered surface. The adhesion of the polymer can be enhanced by first priming this smooth surface. This may be a physical or chemical treatment known as adhesion treatment. This is a chemical treatment, for example, that provides functional groups that can react with the polymer groups in order to form chemical bonds.

[0042] In another method, the coating is applied to the other, unsmoothed surface. Needless to say, the ratio of dry coating varies depending on the surface in question, with this ratio being higher on the unsmoothed surface. This allows those skilled in the art to adjust the amount and weight of the coating. It is also possible to coat both sides.

[0043] According to another embodiment, the calendering process is carried out between two tools, cylinders, or calender rollers. Both sides of the fabric are smoothed. With or without the above adhesion process, one or both of the two surfaces are subsequently coated.

[0044] The calendering process is preferably carried out at a temperature of approximately 150 to approximately 250°C, preferably approximately 180 to approximately 210°C. The calendering process is preferably carried out at a pressure of approximately 150 to approximately 250 kg, preferably approximately 180 to approximately 230 kg. The rotation speed of the calender may be approximately 1 to approximately 30 m / min, preferably approximately 10 to approximately 20 m / min.

[0045] The fabric of the present invention is obtained by coating with polyurethane dissolved in a solvent. Specifically, the coating contains a single-component elastomer (specifically formed from an isocyanate, a polyol, and a chain extender or crosslinking agent) dissolved in the solvent. The film is formed spontaneously during the evaporation of the solvent. The solvent is an organic solvent and may be selected from the group consisting of aromatic solvents, alcohols, ketones, esters, dimethylformamide, and n-methylpyrrolidone. In one specific embodiment, the solvent is selected from the group consisting of toluene, xylene, isopropanol, butanol, 1-methoxypropan-2-ol, methyl ethyl ketone, acetone, butanone, ethyl acetate, dimethylformamide, n-methylpyrrolidone, and mixtures of at least two of the aforementioned. For example, a mixture of toluene and isopropanol.

[0046] In one embodiment, the solvent-phase polyurethane may be characterized by a concentration of 20% to 50% by weight of a non-crosslinked PU, specifically a single-component elastomer, in a mixture of PU and a solvent. In one embodiment, this solvent-phase polyurethane, specifically the elastomer dissolved in the solvent, may be characterized by a viscosity of less than 100,000 mPa.s at 23°C, preferably 5,000 to 60,000 mPa.s at 23°C (according to standard DIN EN ISO / A3).

[0047] As a result, in one embodiment, the lightweight fabric of the present invention is obtained or can be obtained by coating with polyurethane, preferably a single-component polyurethane elastomer, in a solvent phase.

[0048] The fabric coating composition of the present invention may also contain additives. These additives may be any additives widely used in fabric coating compositions. Specifically, these are selected from the group consisting of viscosity modifiers, UV stabilizers, dyes, dispersants, and surfactants. According to one embodiment, the coating contains an anti-UV agent.

[0049] The coated fabrics described herein are known to be printable by so-called sublimation printing techniques. According to one aspect of the present invention, the coated fabric is colored, printed, or decorated by sublimation techniques. Specifically, the sublimation technique may be carried out by printing a pattern onto a substrate (transfer substrate) using one or more dyes that can be sublimated at high temperatures. The substrate is then brought into contact with the coated fabric and subsequently subjected to high-temperature calendering under pressure, for example, at approximately 200°C. The dyes enter the gas phase and are transferred into the coating and / or onto the surface and / or onto the fibers. Polyester PET remains stable at this temperature.

[0050] Spinnakers (standard or asymmetrical) and gennakers are inflatable wind sails. These sails typically include three angular vertices commonly called the head or halyard point, the clew point, and the tack point. These sails are obtained by combining fabric widths, specifically several radial widths. These radial widths extend from each angular vertex. Each radial width is obtained in the form of a planar fabric cut, cut according to the geometric requirements of the width to be obtained.

[0051] Accordingly, the present invention relates to articles such as headsails for sailing ships and other watercraft, e.g., spinnakers, asymmetric spinnakers, and gennakers, which include a covered fabric according to the present invention, or articles formed from one or more fabrics or fabric widths covered according to the present invention. Specifically, an article may include a plurality of fabrics or fabric widths according to the present invention assembled to form the article. In one embodiment, the sailing sail carries a sublimation-printed pattern. Specifically, the sailing sail carries a pattern formed with dye inside a PU coating and / or on the surface of or inside PET yarns.

[0052] Therefore, the subject of the present invention also relates to the width of the fabric cut from the fabric according to the present invention.

[0053] The present invention will be described below using examples corresponding to preferred embodiments, however, these examples are provided for illustrative purposes only and without any limitations. [Examples]

[0054] Example 1: This example compares the effects of polyurethane coating on a conventional polyamide 6.6 fabric coated with PU (control) and a high-tenacity polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fabric coated with PU on one surface according to the present invention.

[0055] PA6.6 is a conventional polyamide fabric in the spinnaker industry, and the PU coating is obtained from a PU elastomer with a modulus of 32.4 at 100% elongation and a melamine-formaldehyde crosslinking agent. The ratio of dry crosslinking agent to dry elastomer is 104%. The PU is used in a 50 / 50 mixture of toluene and isopropanol.

[0056] The PET has a PU coating obtained from a PU elastomer with a modulus of 8 at 100% elongation and a melamine-formaldehyde crosslinking agent. The ratio of dry crosslinking agent to dry elastomer is 66.9%. The PU is used in a 50 / 50 mixture of toluene and isopropanol.

[0057] The tenacity of PET is 6.8 cN / dtex. The elongation at break is 24.6%.

[0058] The coating is applied by a doctor blade, followed by a drying process at 100°C, and then a crosslinking process at 170°C. The speed is 27 m / min. Table 1 [Table 1] Table 2 [Table 2]

[0059] Example 2: The fabric of the present invention, as shown in Example 1, made from 33dtex yarn, is used and compared with Comparative Examples 1 and 2. These comparative examples differ from those of the present invention in the combination of PU modulus and crosslinking agent ratio. These combinations fall outside the limits of the present invention. Table 3 [Table 3]

[0060] Methods and measurements used in this application (Features of the present invention and examples) Using Method A of the NF EN ISO 2062 standard, the breaking strength and elongation at the breaking point of each individual yarn shall be determined using a constant speed elongation testing apparatus. Breaking force (unit: centinewtons - cN): The maximum force generated to break a specimen during a tensile test that results in fracture. Elongation at fracture (%): The increase in sample length measured at the time of fracture. Tenacity (cN / tex): The quotient obtained by dividing the breaking force, expressed in cN, by the linear density of the yarn, expressed in dtex (1 tex = 1 g per 1000 m of yarn length).

[0061] The test allows for the measurement of the strength and elongation at the breaking point of the sample, as well as characteristic variables of the yarn.

[0062] A string is placed between two fixed clamps separated by 500 mm. The device (dynamometer) then moves the clamps so that they move away from each other at a constant displacement rate of 500 mm / min, and continuously measures the applied force. The force required to break the string, as well as the increase in the length of the string at the time of breakage, are measured.

[0063] The average breaking strength and average elongation at the breaking point are two data items characterized by this test. Tenacity is calculated based on dividing the breaking force by the linear density.

[0064] The modulus of a single-component polyurethane elastomer at 100% elongation is measured according to standard DIN 53504. Modulus is defined in section 3.4 of the standard "Spannungswerte (Tension Values)". Measurements are performed on a type S2 dumbbell-shaped test specimen (Schulterstab (shoulder bar)), provided the bar length is l. S The diameter is 55 mm and the thickness is 200 μm. The equipment used is a dynamometer. The dumbbell test specimens are placed in fixed clamps separated by a length L0 while applying the smallest possible pre-tension. The clamps are then separated from each other at a constant speed of 400 mm / min, and the dynamometer measures the applied force as a function of elongation. The modulus at 100% elongation or stress at 100% elongation (MPa) is the ratio of the forces measured at 100% elongation on the initial specimen section. This is described in section 9.4 "Spannungswerte (Tension Values)" of standard DIN 53504.

[0065] The elongation of the fabric is measured according to the standard NF EN ISO 13934-1, as described in the summary. The less elongation in the warp and weft directions due to the properties of polyester is compensated for by the greater elongation in the bias direction (measured here in the warp direction). Such elongation in the bias direction effectively helps to compensate for the excessive stiffness of PET, making it possible to avoid the risk of breakage and rupture under high stress. The mechanical performance results are equivalent or actually better, which results in a polyester fabric suitable for use in spinnaker manufacturing.

[0066] The water absorption rate of the covered fabric in Example 1 was measured according to standard Tappi 441 om-90. One measurement was performed on a new covered fabric, and another measurement was performed after aging. The measured values ​​are expressed as percentages. The apparatus consists of a square rubber substrate and a metal ring cladding with a rubber gasket at its base. The sample is placed on the square substrate, and the metal ring is placed on top of the sample. The system is made watertight using a clamping device. A predetermined amount of water (100 ml) is placed inside the ring and kept in contact with the sample for a specified time (1 minute). After the time has elapsed, the water is removed from the cylindrical ring, and the water residue remaining on the surface of the sample is removed by reciprocating the cylinder, which is located between two blotters, without applying pressure, using the cylinder described in the standard. The percentage of water absorbed is determined by calculating the weight difference before and after contact with water.

[0067] For aging, the fabric is placed in a "Cocotte Minute" pressure cooker with salt water (30g / l) at the operating temperature and pressure for 4 hours. Subsequently, the fabric is subjected to a 1-hour treatment by being suspended at high speed in open air. The fabric is then secured to a mill-type assembly (a 4-blade assembly, with the fabric fixed to one end of one of the blades).

[0068] This demonstrates that the fabric according to the present invention does not undergo any undesirable evolution in terms of its water absorption rate after aging. Such a level of water absorption resistance is a further surprising positive result. The following embodiments can be cited as examples of the present invention. (Note 1) Fabrics for light sailing sails for sailing ships and other surface vessels, such as spinnakers, asymmetric spinnakers, and gennakers, wherein the fabric is formed from continuous polyester warp and weft threads, and one or both of the two surfaces of the fabric are coated with a cross-linked polymer, wherein the polyester is poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET), the tenacity of the PET is 6 cN / dtex or more, specifically 6 to 7 cN / dtex, the density of the fabric is 20 to 50 threads / cm with respect to the warp and weft threads, preferably 25 to 50 threads / cm, the polymer is a cross-linked polyurethane (PU) which is polyether-based, polyester-based, or polycarbonate-based, and the PU conforms to (1) DIN standards. A fabric characterized by (2) being derived from crosslinking by a crosslinking agent based on a ratio of dry crosslinking agent to dry elastomer of 20% to 75% by weight, specifically 30% to 75% by weight, specifically approximately 50% to approximately 75% by weight, in accordance with 53504, with a modulus in 100% elongation of 1 to 15 MPa, more preferably 2 to 15 MPa, specifically 6 to 15 MPa, actually more specifically 6 to 10 MPa, typically 6 to 9.5 MPa, of a single-component polyurethane elastomer used in implementation in a solvent phase. (Note 2) The fabric according to Appendix 1, characterized in that the bias elongation of the covering fabric under 20 lbs is 10 to 30 hundredths of an inch, preferably 14 to 25 hundredths of an inch, as measured on a test piece measuring 76.2 mm in width and 300 mm in length according to standard NF EN ISO 13934-1. (Note 3) The fabric according to Appendix 1 or 2, characterized in that the fabric has a count of 11 to 235 dtex, specifically 22 to 110 dtex, more specifically 22 to 78 dtex, and includes warp and weft threads having a DPF (decitex per filament) of 1 to 4, preferably 1.3 to 3.5. (Note 4) A fabric as described in any one of the appendices 1 to 3, characterized in that the elongation at the breaking point of the PET is 20% or more, specifically 20-30%, in accordance with the standard DIN EN ISO 2062. (Note 5) The fabric according to any one of the appendices 1 to 4, characterized in that the ratio of the dry film of cross-linked PU to the total dry fabric is greater than 5% by weight, specifically 5% to 30% by weight, preferably 10% to 30% by weight, and more preferably 15% to 25% by weight. (Note 6) The weight of the aforementioned covering fabric is 25-130 g / m 2 Preferably 30-120 g / m² 2 A fabric as described in any one of the appendices 1 to 5, characterized in that it is the fabric described in any one of the appendices 1 to 5. (Note 7) The fabric according to any one of the appendices 1 to 6, characterized in that the crosslinking agent for the elastomer is isocyanate, polyisocyanate, melamine, a compound containing melamine, or a mixture of isocyanate and melamine. (Note 8) The fabric according to any one of the appendices 1 to 7, characterized in that the isocyanate or polyisocyanate and / or the crosslinking agent is aliphatic. (Note 9) Lightweight sailing sails, specifically spinnakers, asymmetrical spinnakers, or gennakers, which include the fabrics described in any one of the appendices 1 to 8, or are formed by assembling multiple fabrics described in any one of the appendices 1 to 8. (Note 10) The lightweight sailing sail according to Appendix 9, characterized in that the lightweight sailing sail carries a sublimation-printed pattern. (Note 11) A method for manufacturing a covering fabric as described in any one of the appendices 1 to 8, comprising the following steps, namely: - A step of preparing a fabric, wherein the fabric is made from poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) having a density of 20 to 50 threads / cm with respect to the warp and weft threads, preferably 25 to 50 threads / cm, and the tenacity of the PET is 6 cN / dtex or more, specifically 6 to 7 cN / dtex. - A step of coating one or both of the two surfaces of the fabric using a mixture of a single-component polyurethane elastomer having a modulus at 100% elongation of approximately 15 MPa or less, specifically 1 to 15 MPa, more preferably 2 to 15 MPa, specifically 6 to 15 MPa, specifically 6 to 10 MPa, typically 6 to 9.5 MPa, a solvent for the elastomer, and a crosslinking agent, based on a ratio of dry crosslinking agent to dry elastomer of approximately 20% to approximately 75% by weight, specifically approximately 30% to approximately 75% by weight, specifically approximately 50% to approximately 75% by weight, according to standard DIN 53504, - A step of heating the fabric until the coating dries and crosslinks, - Process for obtaining a covering fabric, - Optionally, a step of printing on one or both of the two surfaces of the fabric, for example, by sublimation. Methods that include...

Claims

1. A covering fabric for a light sailing sail for a sailing ship, wherein the covering fabric comprises a fabric, the fabric comprises two surfaces, the fabric is formed from continuous polyester warp and weft threads, and one or both of the two surfaces of the fabric are covered with a cross-linked polymer, the polyester being polyethylene terephthalate, the tenacity of the polyethylene terephthalate being 6-7 cN / dtex, the warp density of the fabric being 20-50 threads / cm, the weft density of the fabric being 20-50 threads / cm, the cross-linked polymer being a cross-linked polyurethane which is polyether-based, polyester-based, or polycarbonate-based, and the cross-linked polyurethane is (1) DIN standard A covered fabric, derived from crosslinking by a crosslinking agent based on a ratio of 20% to 75% by weight of a dry crosslinking agent to a dry single-component polyurethane elastomer, which is used in a solvent phase, and having a modulus of 6 to 15 MPa at 100% elongation in accordance with 53504.

2. The covered fabric according to claim 1, wherein the single-component polyurethane elastomer has a modulus of 6 to 10 MPa at 100% elongation according to standard DIN 53504.

3. The covered fabric according to claim 1, wherein the single-component polyurethane elastomer has a modulus of 6 to 9.5 MPa at 100% elongation according to standard DIN 53504.

4. The covered fabric according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the ratio of the dried crosslinking agent to the dried single-component polyurethane elastomer is 30% to 75% by weight.

5. The covering fabric according to claim 1, wherein the bias elongation of the covering fabric under 20 lbs is 10 to 30 inches, as measured on a test piece with a width of 76.2 mm and a length of 300 mm according to standard NF EN ISO 13934-1.

6. The covered fabric according to claim 1, wherein the fabric comprises warp and weft threads having a count of 11 to 235 dtex and a DPF (decitex per filament) of 1 to 4.

7. The covered fabric according to claim 1, wherein the fabric comprises warp and weft threads having a count of 22 to 110 dtex and a DPF (decitex per filament) of 1 to 4.

8. The covered fabric according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the fabric comprises warp threads and weft threads having a DPF (decitex per filament) of 1.3 to 3.

5.

9. The covered fabric according to claim 1, wherein the elongation at the breaking point of the polyethylene terephthalate is 20% or more in accordance with the standard DIN EN ISO 2062.

10. The covered fabric according to claim 1, wherein the elongation at the breaking point of the polyethylene terephthalate is 20 to 30% according to the standard DIN EN ISO 2062.

11. The coated fabric according to claim 1, wherein the ratio of the dry film of the crosslinked polyurethane to the fabric is 5% by weight to 30% by weight.

12. The weight of the aforementioned covering fabric is 25 to 130 g / m 2 The covering fabric according to claim 1.

13. The covering fabric according to claim 1, wherein the crosslinking agent of the single-component polyurethane elastomer is selected from the group consisting of isocyanate, polyisocyanate, melamine, a compound containing melamine, and a mixture of isocyanate and melamine.

14. The coated fabric according to claim 13, wherein the isocyanate and the polyisocyanate are aliphatic.

15. A lightweight sailing sail comprising at least one covering fabric as described in any one of claims 1 to 14.

16. The lightweight sailing sail according to claim 15, wherein the lightweight sailing sail is selected from the group consisting of a spinnaker, an asymmetrical spinnaker, and a gennaker.

17. The lightweight sailing sail according to claim 15, wherein the lightweight sailing sail carries a sublimation-printed pattern.

18. A method for manufacturing a covering fabric according to any one of claims 1 to 14, comprising the following steps, namely: - A step of preparing a fabric, wherein the fabric is made from polyethylene terephthalate having a warp density of 20 to 50 threads / cm and a weft density of 20 to 50 threads / cm, and the tenacity of the polyethylene terephthalate is 6 to 7 cN / dtex. - A process of obtaining a coating by coating one or both of the two surfaces of a fabric having two surfaces, using a mixture of a single-component polyurethane elastomer having a modulus of 6 to 15 MPa at 100% elongation according to standard DIN 53504, a solvent for the single-component polyurethane elastomer, and a crosslinking agent, based on a ratio of 20% to 75% by weight of the dry crosslinking agent to the dry single-component polyurethane elastomer, - A step of heating the fabric until the coating dries and crosslinks, - Process for obtaining a covering fabric Methods that include...

19. The method according to claim 18, further comprising the step of printing one or both of the two surfaces of the covering fabric by sublimation.

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