Laminate

Abstract

Preferably the membrane 22 is microporous, biologically derived, polyhydroxyalkonate (PHA), especially amorphous and microporous 3-hydroxybutyrate and 3-hydroxyhexanoate copolymer blended with polylac

Description

Field of the Invention The invention relates to a laminate comprising a membrane, in particular a membrane comprising biodegradable material, and a first fabric layer. The invention further relates to a membrane, a method of manufacturing a laminate and a waterproof product for outdoor use comprising a laminate. Background The need for effective waterproof materials extends to a variety of different outdoor uses, including but not limited to clothing, footwear, accessories, tents, bags and so on. These applications encompass several different industries, including clothing, agriculture, healthcare and packaging. In general, these materials substantially prevent water from passing through them and therefore act as a barrier to keep the contents of these materials dry. One class of waterproof material are waterproof fabrics. Some modern waterproof fabrics involve laminating a waterproof membrane layer over a textile layer, such that the waterproof membrane layer serves either as a base “inner” layer or as a water-engaging “outer” layer. Membrane layers of waterproof fabrics are conventionally made from synthetic polymers such as polyurethane (PU) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). These materials are popular because they have desirable properties in terms of waterproofness, durability, breathability, weight, cost and commercial availability. However, consumers are becoming increasingly environmentally conscious and there is a growing demand for waterproof products which have a less harmful effect on the environment. PU, PFTE and other synthetic polymers are typically made from fossil fuels and are not readily biodegradable. Summary of the Invention The present inventors have developed a laminate having a membrane comprising biodegradable material. To this end, in a first aspect the present invention provides a laminate comprising (a) a membrane comprising a biodegradable material; and (b) a first fabric layer disposed on a first face of the membrane. Advantageously, the laminate has a reduced environmental impact because at least some of the membrane comprises material which is biodegradable. As such, a greater proportion of the laminate will readily biodegrade and so will not persist in the environment after its useful lifetime. A second aspect of the invention relates to a membrane comprising a biodegradable material, wherein the membrane has a thickness of from 15 pm to 50 pm, and wherein the biodegradable material comprises a polyhydroxyalkanoate or a blend of a polyhydroxyalkanoate and a polylactic acid. A third aspect of the invention is a method of manufacturing the laminate according to the first aspect. More specifically, in a third aspect the invention provides a method of manufacturing the laminate according to the first aspect. In a fourth aspect the invention provides a waterproof product, the waterproof product comprising the laminate according to the first aspect of the invention. The laminate is suitable for use in clothing garments, footwear and accessories, as well as bags and tents. As well as these, the inventors also foresee applications of the laminate in medical, agricultural, automotive and packaging fields. As such, the laminate according to the invention is highly versatile, with properties which enable it to be suitable for a wide range of different applications. The invention includes the combination of the aspects and preferred features described except where such a combination is clearly impermissible or expressly avoided. Summary of the Figures Figure 1 is an exploded view of a two-layer laminate according to the present invention; Figure 2 is an exploded view of a three-layer laminate according to the present invention; Figure 3 shows top and side view scanning electron micrographs of a membrane according to the present invention at an optimisation stage of laboratory trials; Figure 4 shows top and side view scanning electron micrographs of a membrane according to the present invention at a scale-up stage of laboratory trials; and Figure 5 is a side view of a laminate processing system for manufacturing a laminate according to the present invention. Detailed Description of the Invention Aspects and embodiments of the present invention will now be discussed with reference to the accompanying figures. Further aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. All documents mentioned in this text are incorporated herein by reference. Membrane The invention provides in one aspect a laminate comprising a membrane, and in another aspect the invention provides a membrane. The following disclosures apply to the membrane according to either aspect of the invention. Biodegradability The membrane according to the present invention comprises a biodegradable material. It is generally understood that a biodegradable material is one which readily undergoes biodegradation. Biodegradation refers here to the process by which organic matter is biologically decomposed and is taken to encompass the breakdown of organic matter by microorganisms as well as the conversion of organic matter into humus (i.e., composting). Biodegradation can be broadly classified as either aerobic or anaerobic biodegradation. The rate at which either aerobic or anaerobic biodegradation takes place depends on the environment and conditions which a sample is exposed to. ASTM D5988-18 and its international equivalent ISO 17556:2019 are globally recognised test standards for measuring the aerobic biodegradability of a sample in soil. Under the conditions defined in ASTM D5988-18, an aerobically biodegradable material in soil is one which is at least 90 wt% biodegraded within a period of 2 years. In some embodiments, the membrane is aerobically biodegradable in soil in accordance with ASTM D5988-18. In some embodiments, the biodegradable material is aerobically biodegradable in soil in accordance with ASTM D5988-18. The biodegradable material may be at least 92 wt%, at least 94 wt%, at least 96 wt%, at least 98 wt%, or about 100wt% biodegraded within a period of 2 years, or 1 year, or 180 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with the method of ASTM D5988-18. ASTM D7081-05 is a standard for determining whether a sample is aerobically biodegradable in marine environments. According to ASTM 7081-05, an aerobically biodegradable material in marine environments in one which has at least a 30 wt% carbon dioxide evolution and 70 wt% physical degradation below 2 mm within a period of 180 days. In some embodiments, the membrane is aerobically biodegradable in marine environments in accordance with ASTM D7081-05. In some embodiments, the biodegradable material is aerobically biodegradable in marine environments in accordance with ASTM D7081-05. The biodegradable material may have at least 75 wt%, at least 80wt %, at least 85 wt%, at least 90 wt%, at least 95 wt%, at least 99 wt%, or about 100 wt% physical degradation below 2 mm within a period of 180 days, or 150 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with the method of ASTM D7081-05. The biodegradable material may also have at least a 40 wt% carbon dioxide evolution, at least 50 wt% carbon dioxide evolution, at least 60 wt% carbon dioxide evolution, at least 70 wt% carbon dioxide evolution, at least 80 wt% carbon dioxide evolution, at least 90 wt% carbon dioxide evolution, at least 99 wt% carbon dioxide evolution or about 100 wt% carbon dioxide evolution within a period of 180 days, or 150 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with the method of ASTM D7081-05. In some embodiments, the membrane is aerobically biodegradable in marine environments in accordance with ASTM D6691-17. In some embodiments, the biodegradable material is aerobically biodegradable in marine environments in accordance with ASTM D6691-17. The biodegradable material may have at least 20 wt%, at least 30 wt%, at least 40wt%, at least 50 wt%, at least 60 wt%, at least 70 wt%, at least 80 wt%, at least 90 wt%, at least 95 wt%, at least 99 wt%, or about 100 wt% biodegradation below pellet size (3-4 mm) within a period of 180 days, or 150 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with the method of ASTM D6691-17. The biodegradable material may also have at least a 40 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, at least 50 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, at least 60 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, at least 70 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, at least 80 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, at least 90 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, at least 99 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, or about 100 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion within a period of 365 days, or 180 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with the method of ASTM D6691-17. ASTM D6400-19 is a standard for measuring whether a sample is compostable. A sample is compostable if it satisfies each of the following requirements under the conditions defined in ASTM D6400-19: (1) at least 90 wt% of the sample physically disintegrates (particle size <2 mm) within 90 days; (2) at least 90 wt% of the carbon content of the sample is converted to carbon dioxide within 180 days; (3) No adverse impacts on the ability of compost to support plant growth: a. Test substance shall have concentrations of regulated metals less than 50% of those prescribed for sludges or composts in the country where the product is solid; b. Over 90% of germination rate and plant biomass of the resulted composts, per standard OECD 208 with modifications found in Annex E of EN 13432; c. Over 50% of volatile organic solids content. Compostable samples may be compostable by industrial composting, municipal composting, home composting, and fresh water composting, for example. In some embodiments, the biodegradable material is compostable in accordance with ASTM D6400-19. In some embodiments, at least 90 wt%. at least 92 wt%, at least 94 wt%, at least 96 wt%, at least 98 wt%, or about 100 wt% of the biodegradable material physically disintegrates to a particle size of <2 mm within 90 days, or 60 days, or 45 days, or 30 days in accordance with ASTM D6400-19. In some embodiments, at least 90 wt%. at least 92 wt%, at least 94 wt%, at least 96 wt%, at least 98 wt%, or about 100 wt% of the carbon content of the biodegradable material is converted to carbon dioxide within 180 days, or 150 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with ASTM D6400-19. In some embodiments, the membrane is one or more of: (a) aerobically biodegradable in soil in accordance with ASTM D5988-18; (b) aerobically biodegradable in marine environments in accordance with ASTM 7081-05 and / or ASTM D6691-17; and (c) compostable in accordance with ASTM D6400-19. In some embodiments, the membrane is aerobically biodegradable in soil in accordance with ASTM D5988-18, aerobically biodegradable in marine environments in accordance with ASTM 7081-05 and / or ASTM D6691-17, and compostable in accordance with ASTM D6400-19, In some embodiments, the biodegradable material is at least 92 wt% biodegraded within a period of 2 years in accordance with the method of ASTM D5988-18, has at least 75 wt% physical degradation below 2 mm within a period of 180 days in accordance with the method of ASTM 7081-05 and / or at least 90 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion within a period of 18- days in accordance with the method of ASTM D6691-17, and at least 92 wt% of the biodegradable material physically disintegrates to a particle size of <2 mm within 90 days in accordance with ASTM D6400-19. ASTM D5511-18 is a standard for determining the biodegradability of a sample by anaerobic digestion. Anaerobic digestion is a form of static batch fermentation with 20% solids. The method according to ASTM D5511-18 can either involve a digestion temperature of 52 °C to measure thermophilic anaerobic biodegradability or 37 °C to measure mesophilic anaerobic biodegradability. In some embodiments, the biodegradable material has a thermophilic biodegradability by anaerobic digestion of at least 10wt%, or 20wt%, or 30wt%, or 40wt%, or 50wt%, or 60wt%, or 70wt%, or 80wt%, or 90wt%, or 99wt%, or about 100wt% within 180 days, or 150 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with ASTM D5511-18. In some embodiments, the biodegradable material has a mesophilic anaerobic biodegradability by anaerobic digestion of at least 10wt%, or 20wt%, or 30wt%, or 40wt%, or 50wt%, or 60wt%, or 70wt%, or 80wt%, or 90wt%, or 99wt%, or about 100wt% within 180 days, or 150 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with ASTM D5511-18. Bio-derivability In some embodiments, the biodegradable material is biologically derived (i.e., bio-derived or bio-based). A biologically derived material is one which is derived from, or produced by, biological organisms. More specifically, a biologically derived material is one whose carbon content is predominantly or entirely derived from a carbon source which was directly in equilibrium with carbon dioxide in the atmosphere at the time of cessation of respiration or metabolism. Biologically derived materials include those which are directly formed from bio-based resources as well as man-made materials which are chemically synthesised or otherwise derived from bio-based resources. Biologically derived materials are distinguished from synthetic materials, which are obtained by chemical syntheses starting from carbon sources which are not directly in equilibrium with carbon dioxide in the atmosphere at the time of cessation of respiration or metabolism, for example fossil fuels such as oil and natural gas. The extent to which a material is biologically derived can be assessed by radiocarbon analysis in accordance with ASTM D6866-22. As such, a material which is “biologically derived” is defined herein as a material which has at least a threshold percentage of biobased content as measured by the method according to ASTM D6866-22. It follows that a biologically derived membrane, a biologically derived laminate and so on are products which have at least a threshold percentage of biobased content as measured by the method according to ASTM D6866-22. Biobased content can be evaluated in accordance with ASTM D6866-22 standards using Liquid Scintillation Counting (LSC) radiocarbon (14C) techniques (so-called “Method A” disclosed in ASTM D6866-22). In some embodiments, the biobased content of the biodegradable material as measured by ASTM D6866-22 is at least 50 wt%, at least 60 wt%, at least 70 wt%, at least 75 wt%, at least 80 wt%, at least 85 wt%, at least 90 wt%, at least 95 wt%, at least 99 wt%, or about 100 wt%. In some embodiments, the biobased content of the membrane as measured by ASTM D6866-22 is at least 50 wt%. at least 60 wt%, at least 70 wt%, at least 75 wt%, at least 80 wt%, at least 85 wt%, at least 90 wt%, at least 95 wt%, at least 99 wt%, or about 100 wt%. Recyclability In some embodiments, the biodegradable material is recyclable. A recyclable material is one which can be recycled (i.e., processed and then used again). ISO15270:2008 is a standard for determining various kinds of recyclability of a material, including mechanical recyclability and feedstock recyclability Mechanical recyclability refers to the relative weight percentage of a material which can be proceeded into another semi-finished or finished product, while feedstock recyclability refers to the relative weight percentage of a material which can be converted into its chemical raw material (e.g. the monomers of a polymer). In some embodiments, the mechanical recyclability of the membrane in accordance with ISO 15270:2008 is 10 wt% or more, 20 wt% or more, 30 wt% or more, 40 wt% or more, 50 wt% or more, 60 wt% or more, 70 wt% or more, 80 wt% or more, 90 wt% or more, or about 100 wt% of the membrane. In some embodiments, the feedstock recyclability of the membrane in accordance with ISO 15270:2008 is 10 wt% or more, 20 wt% or more, 30 wt% or more, 40 wt% or more, 50 wt% or more, 60 wt% or more, 70 wt% or more, 80 wt% or more, 90 wt% or more, or about 100 wt% of the membrane. Material In some embodiments, the membrane consists essentially of biodegradable material. “Consists essentially” is taken here to mean that the membrane may comprise additional components which do not materially affect the essential characteristics of the membrane. One example of such a component is a dyeing agent, which affects the colour of the membrane but does not substantially affect its structural properties or its biodegradability, bioderivabillity, compostability, recyclability and so on. On the other hand, it is understood that if the membrane consists essentially of one or more disclosed polymers, for example, then the membrane will not contain any further polymers or any other structurally significant materials. In some embodiments, the biodegradable material comprises or consists of a thermoplastic polymer. Thermoplastic polymers are advantageous because of their excellent mechanical and chemical resistance properties. They are durable, flexible and can easily be remoulded or remodelled, which makes it easier to form the material into the desired membrane shape and improves the end-of-life recyclability of the membrane (i.e., because it can be cast into another shape for another application). Thermoplastic polyesters in particular are lightweight, have excellent heat resistance, are wrinkle and abrasion resistant and have fibers which are easily dyeable. In some embodiments, the biodegradable material comprises or consists of at least one of a thermoplastic polyester and nylon. In some embodiments, the biodegradable material comprises or consists of a thermoplastic polyester. In some embodiments, the biodegradable material comprises or consists of at least one of a polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) and polyethylene furanoate (PEF). In some embodiments, the biodegradable material comprises or consists of PHA. Polyhydroxyalkanoates are a class of thermoplastic polyester having the chemical structure: R O l H H2 J x In some embodiments, the biodegradable material comprises or consists of a biodegradable PHA. The biodegradable material may comprise or consists of a biologically derived PHA. The biodegradable material may comprise or consists of a biodegradable and biologically derived PHA. PHA materials are readily biodegradable in several environments, including home composting and wastewater treatment plants. As such, PHA materials have a lower environmental impact than conventional polymers. Even where PHA fibres are exposed to marine environments, their biodegradability means that they have a smaller and shorter impact on the environment than conventional polymer fibres. In some embodiments, the biodegradable material comprises or consists of a blend of PHA and polylactic acid (PLA). Polylactic acids are a class of thermoplastic polyester have the chemical structure: 9 CHS ...... i H J x PLA can be prepared from biologically derivable starting materials, including sugars and starches. PLA materials are also widely commercially available at reasonable cost. PLA polymers may also be biodegradable, compostable, and / or recyclable. Furthermore, PLA materials have viscosities which make them easily mouldable and so can be readily formed into a membrane. The inventors identified that blending PHA and PLA can be advantageous as a means of tuning the properties of the membrane as desired. For example, finetuning the ratio of PHA and PLA in a blend can be used to adjust the softness / brittleness of the membrane, as well as its impact strength and other physical, chemical and mechanical properties. The inventors found that membranes comprising a biodegradable material made from a blend of PHA and PLA were in some ways superior to equivalent membranes having biodegradable materials made from PLA alone. For example, the inventors identified that a blend of PLA and PHA in a membrane had a significantly higher breathability characteristic than PLA alone. PHA (either alone or in a blend with PLA) and PLA are taken here to mean one or more PHA and one or more PLA. In some embodiments, the biodegradable material comprises a blend of PHA and PLA, wherein the PHA and / or the PLA is biodegradable, compostable, and / or recyclable. Preferably the biodegradable material comprises a blend of PHA and PLA wherein the PHA and the PLA are biodegradable, compostable, and / or recyclable. In some embodiments, the biodegradable material comprises a blend of PHA and PLA, wherein the PHA and / or the PHA is biologically derived according to ASTM D6866-22. Preferably the biodegradable material comprises a blend of PHA and PLA wherein the PHA and the PLA are both biologically derived according to ASTM D6866-22. In some embodiments, the biodegradable material consists essentially of PHA or a blend of PHA and PLA. In some embodiments, the membrane consists essentially of a biodegradable material which consists essentially of PHA or a blend of PHA and PLA. The PLA in the blend of PHA and PLA may be any PLA. In some embodiments, the PLA in the blend is poly(L-lactide) (PLLA), or poly(D-lactide) (PDLA), or poly(DL-lactide) (PDLLA), or poly (meso-lactide), or copolymers obtained from the monomers. The PLA in the blend may itself be a blend of different kinds of PLA. In some embodiments, the PLA in the blend of comprises >50% L-lactide and <50% D-lactide. The PLA may comprise >90% L-lactide and <10% D-lactide. In some embodiments, the PLA is a blend of PLA, wherein a major (>90 wt%) PLA in the blend is a PLA comprising >90% L-lactide and <10% D-lactide and the minor (< 10 wt%) PLA in the blend is a PLA comprising about 50% L-lactide and about 50% D-lactide. Exemplary PLA polymers in the blend of PHA and PLA include Luminy® PLA L105, Luminy® PLA L130, Luminy® PLA LX130U, Luminy® L175, Luminy® LX175, Luminy® LX175U, Luminy® LX530, Luminy® LX575, Luminy® LX930, Luminy® LX975, Luminy® D070 and Luminy® D120, each supplied by TotalEnergies Corbion. These PLA polymers are each biodegradable, compostable, recyclable and biologically derived. The PHA in the blend of PHA and PLA may be a crystalline, semi-crystalline or an amorphous PHA. The PHA in the blend may be an amorphous PHA (aPHA). aPHA is advantageous because it has softer, more rubbery physical characteristics. An exemplary aPHA polymer is PHACT™ A1000P supplied by CheilJedang BIO, which is biodegradable, compostable, recyclable and biologically derived. The skilled person will have a general understanding of how to distinguish crystalline, semi-crystalline and amorphous polymers, for example how to distinguish between crystalline PHA and aPHA. One suitable technique is powder X-ray diffraction, where the absence of sharp 20 peaks indicates that a sample is amorphous. In those embodiments in which the PHA in the blend is amorphous, the amorphous PHA may have a glass transition temperature less than room temperature (25 °C). The skilled person will appreciate that amorphous polymers are more flexible when their temperature exceeds their glass transition temperature. In some embodiments, the amorphous PHA has a glass transition temperature less than 25 °C, or less than or equal to 20°C, or less than or equal to 15°C, or less than or equal to 10°C, or less than or equal to 5 °C, or less than or equal to 0°C, or less than or equal to -5°C, or less than or equal to -10°C, or less than or equal to -15°C. The glass transition temperature can be measured in accordance with the method set out by standard ASTM D3418-21. The inventors identified that the ratio of PLA and PHA in the blend of PHA and PLA may impact the waterproofness, breathability and surface tension properties of the biodegradable material and in turn the membrane and the laminate. In those embodiments in which the biodegradable material comprises, consists essentially of or consists of a blend of PHA and PLA, the weight ratio of PLA to PHA in the blend may be up to 99:1, for example up to 90:10, up to 80:20, or about 70:30. In embodiments in which the biodegradable material consists essentially of or consists of PHA, the PHA may be a copolymer. By finetuning the type and proportion of monomers in the PHA copolymer, the properties of the PHA can be tailored as desired. In some embodiments, when the biodegradable material consists essentially of or consists of PHA, the PHA is a copolymer of 3-hydroxybutyrate and 3-hydroxyhexaonate (i.e., 3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate; PHBH). PHBH provides good waterproofness, breathability and surface tension. PHBH is also biodegradable, compostable, recyclable, and biologically derived. PHBH comprises highly crystalline 3-hydroxybutyrate (3HB) and elastomeric 3-hydroxyhexanoate (3HH) units. The inventors identified that increasing the 3HH unit content in PHBH decreases the melting temperature and does not substantially change or even increases the thermal degradation temperature of the copolymer. As a result, the inventors identified that the processing window of PHBH is desirably broadened when the 3HH unit content of the copolymer is increased. The processing window refers to the range of temperatures wherein the temperature is high enough that the polymer has a viscosity suitable for processing (for example, the polymer is extrudable) and low enough that the polymer does not undergo thermal degradation. In some embodiments, the biodegradable material comprises, consists essentially of or consists of PHA, wherein the PHA is a copolymer of 3HB and 3HH, and wherein the amount of 3HH in the copolymer is at least 5 mol%, at least 7.5 mol%, at least 10 mol%, at least 15 mol%, at least 20 mol%, at least 30 mol%, at least 40 mol%, at least 50 mol%, at least 60 mol%, at least 70 mol%, at least 80 mol% or at least 90 mol%. The molar content of 3HB and 3HH can be determined by the method in accordance with ISO 14855-2:2018. In some embodiments, the melting temperature of the PHA is less than 200 °C, or less than 180 °C, or less than 160°C. In an exemplary embodiment, the melting temperature of the PHA is in the range 145 °C to 155 °C. Melting temperature can be measured using, for example, differential scanning calorimetry in accordance with the method of ASTM D3418-21. In some embodiments, the melt mass-flow rate (formerly known as the melt flow index, or melt index) at 165 °C under a load of 5 kg for the PHA is between 1 gram per 10 minutes and 10 grams per 10 minutes, or between 2 grams per 10 minutes and 9 grams per 10 minutes, or between 3 grams per 10 minutes and 8 grams per 10 minutes, or between 4 grams per 10 minutes and 7 grams per 10 minutes. Melt massflow rate at 165 °C can be measured according to the ISO 1133-1:2022 test standard. In some embodiments, the membrane has a thickness of from 0.1 pm to 1000 pm, for example 1 pm to 100 pm, 5 pm to 75 pm, 10 pm to 60 pm, or 15 pm to 50 pm. The thickness of the membrane can be measured using optical analysis. The inventors identified that when the membrane according to the present invention had thicknesses in these ranges, the membrane was durable while also being lightweight. In some embodiments, the membrane comprises a dyeing agent for imparting a colour onto the membrane. In some embodiments, the dyeing agent is a biodegradable dyeing agent. In this way, the overall laminate has a better biodegradability than laminates using non-biodegradable dyeing agents in the membrane layer. In some embodiments, the dyeing agent is derived from fungus. Porosity In some embodiments, the membrane is porous. In some embodiments, the membrane is microporous. Pore size diameter refers here to the mean average pore size calculated from the pore size distribution throughout the membrane, or at least a statistically significant portion of the membrane. The skilled person would be aware of a suitable number of pores to measure average pore size for in order to determine a statistically significant pore size distribution. Methods for measuring pore size diameter include, for example, scanning electron microscopy. In some embodiments, the membrane has a mean average pore size diameter of 5 nm to 10000 nm, preferably 100 nm to 5000 nm, more preferably 300 nm to 1000 nm. In some embodiments, the pore size is 400 nm to 4000 nm, preferably 500 nm to 2000 nm. A porous membrane may be more breathable than a non-porous membrane. Microporous membranes have pore sizes large enough to allow air to pass through the membrane, which improves the breathability of the membrane, while not allowing liquid to pass through the membrane. The waterproofness (i.e., the ability of a material to withstand water penetration) can be measured by a water column (WC) in accordance with ISO 811:2018. This method involves pressing water onto a material and increasing the pressure at a constant rate (600 mmWC per minute). The dry side of the material is observed optically and the material is considered to have been “broken through” once the third water droplet has penetrated through it. Water column is measured in metres, which refers to the height of a water column (having dimensions according to ISO 811:2018) which could be placed on the material before the material is broken through. In some embodiments, the membrane has a waterproofness (WC) of at least 1 metre, for example at least 2 metres, at least 3 metres, at least 4 metres, at least 5 metres, at least 6 metres, at least 8 metres, at least 10 metres, at least 15 metres, at least 20 metres, at least 25 metres, at least 30 metres, at least 35 metres, or at least 40 metres. The breathability (i.e., the rate of flux of a gaseous medium such as water vapour through a material) can be measured in terms of water vapour transmission rate (WVTR) in accordance with ASTM standard E96, Method B. This method involves measuring the weight change of a cup covered by the sample material and containing water held at a constant temperature (23 °C) and humidity (50% relative humidity) and ventilation (1 m / s). The WVTR is then calculated as the change in mass of the water-containing cup, taking into account the duration of the experiment and the area of the sample material covering the cup (grams / (square metre / days)) (g / m2 / d)). In some embodiments, the membrane has a breathability (WVTR) of at least 50 g / m2 / d, for example at least 100 g / m2 / d, at least 150 g / m2 / d, at least 200 g / m2 / d, at least 250 g / m2 / d, at least 300 g / m2 / d, at least 350 g / m2 / d, at least 400 g / m2 / d, at least 450 g / m2 / d. at least 500 g / m2 / d, at least 550 g / m2 / d, at least 600 g / m2 / d, at least 650 g / m2 / d, at least 700 g / m2 / d, at least 800 g / m2 / d, at least 900 g / m2 / d, at least 1000 g / m2 / d, at least 1100 g / m2 / d, at least 1200 g / m2 / d, at least 1300 g / m2 / d, or at least 1400 g / m2 / d. The surface tension (i.e., the interfacial tension between oil and water) can be measured in accordance with the ring method of ASTM D971-20. It is often desirable that the surface tension of a waterproof material is relatively low so that water readily pours off the material rather than cling to the material’s surface. Under ASTM D971-20, the surface tension (milliNewtons per metre (mN / m)) is measured using a Tensiometer. In some embodiments, the surface tension of the membrane is less than 70 mN / m, for example less than 60 mN / m, less than 50 mN / m, less than 40 mN / n or less than 38 mN / m. In some embodiments, the surface tension of the membrane is from 20 mN / m to 50 mN / m, for example 25 mN / m to 45 mN / m, 30 mN / m to 40 mN / m, 32 mN / m to 38 mN / m, or 34 mN / m to 36 mN / m. It is similarly desirable that the membrane is relatively hydrophobic, such that water does not readily “wet” the surface of the membrane and instead readily pours off the membrane. Hydrophobicity can be measured by the contact angle of a droplet of water on the surface of a sample. It is well known that a material is hydrophobic if the contact angle of water on the material is greater than 90°. The water contact angle and hydrophobicity of a sample can be measured by optical analysis in accordance with ASTM D5946-17. In some embodiments, the membrane is hydrophobic (i.e., has a water contact angle of greater than 90° as measured in accordance with ASTM D5946-17). In some embodiments, the membrane has a water contact angle of at least 70°, for example at least 80°, at least 90°, at least 95° or at least 100°. Additional properties The membrane may have suitable flexural properties for its applications. The flexural behaviour (i.e., bendability) of a material can be measured in accordance with the standard ASTM D790-17 and has measurements units MPa (MegaPascals). In some embodiments, the flexural modulus of the membrane is from 100 MPa to 2000 MPa, for example 200 MPa to 1500 MPa, 300 MPa to 1000 MPa, 350 MPa to 800 MPa, or 400 MPa to 700 MPa. The membrane may have high thermal stability in temperatures well in excess of room temperature. For example, the membrane may have high thermal stability so that it can withstand hot water (up to 100 °C) washing. Thermal stability in this regard can be measured in terms of the melting point (°C) of the membrane. Transition temperatures (e.g. melting points) can be evaluated using differential scanning calorimetry in accordance with ASTM D3418-99. In some embodiments, the melting point of the membrane is at least 40 °C, for example at least 50°C, at least 60°C, at least 70°C, at least 80°C, at least 90°C, or at least 100°C. In some embodiments, the melting point of the membrane is from 40 °C to 300 °C, for example 100 °C to 250 °C, 150 °C to 200 °C, or 160 °C to 180 °C. In some embodiments the membrane has a relatively low melt flow rate so that it retains its structural characteristics as a membrane. Melt flow rate can be assessed in terms of its melt flow index, which is a measure of the ease of flow of the melt. A lower melt flow index indicates a sample which less readily flows. The melt flow index of a sample can be measured in accordance with ASTM D1238-23. In some embodiments, the melt flow index measured according to ASTM D1238-23 (at 190 °C using a 2.16 kg weight) is less than 50 g / 10min, for example less than 40 g / 10min, less than 30 g / 10min, or less than 20 g / 10min. Membrane of the second aspect A second aspect of the invention relates to a membrane comprising a biodegradable material, wherein the membrane has a thickness of from 15 pm to 50 pm, and wherein the biodegradable material comprises a polyhydroxyalkanoate or a blend of a polyhydroxyalkanoate and a polylactic acid. The membrane of the second aspect may include any features of the membrane disclosed above, except where such an inclusion is clearly impermissible. In addition to this, some of the preferred features of the membrane of the second aspect are also disclosed here. In some embodiments, the biodegradable material of the membrane consists essentially of or consists of a PHA or of a blend of a PHA and a PLA. The biodegradable material may consist essentially of a PHA or of a blend of a PHA and a PLA. For example, the biodegradable material may consist essentially of a PHA, or in other embodiments the biodegradable material may consist essentially of a blend of a PHA and a PLA. The biodegradable material may consist of a PHA or of a blend of a PHA and a PLA. For example, the biodegradable material may consist of a PHA, or in other embodiments the biodegradable material may consist of a blend of a PHA and a PLA. In some embodiments, the PHA and / or PLA is at least one of biodegradable (i.e., aerobically and / or anaerobically biodegradable), bio-derivable, compostable, and / or recyclable. In some embodiments, the PLA in the blend is poly(L-lactide) (PLLA), or poly(D-lactide) (PDLA), or poly(DL-lactide) (PDLLA), or poly(meso-lactide), or copolymers obtained from the monomers. The PLA in the blend may itself be a blend of different kinds of PLA. The PHA in the blend of PHA and PLA may be a crystalline, semi-crystalline or an amorphous PHA, for example the PHA in the blend may be an amorphous PHA. In some embodiments, when the biodegradable material consists essentially of or consists of PHA, the PHA is a copolymer of 3-hydroxybutyrate and 3-hydroxyhexaonate (i.e., 3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate; PHBH). In some embodiments, the membrane is porous, for example the membrane may be microporous. In some embodiments, the membrane has a mean average pore size diameter of 5 nm to 10000 nm, preferably 100 nm to 5000 nm, more preferably 300 nm to 1000 nm. In some embodiments, the pore size is 400 nm to 4000 nm, preferably 500 nm to 2000 nm. In some embodiments, the membrane has a thickness of at least 15 pm, 17.5 pm, 20 pm, 22.5 pm, 25 pm, 27.5 pm, 30 pm, 32.5 pm, 35 pm, 37.5 pm, 40 pm, 42.5 pm, 45 pm, 47.5 pm, or 50 pm. In some embodiments, the membrane has a thickness of no more than 50 pm, 47.5 pm, 45 pm, 42.5 pm, 40 pm, 37.5 pm, 35 pm, 32.5 pm, 30 pm, 27.5 pm, 25 pm, 22.5 pm, 20 pm, 17.5 pm, or 15 pm. In some embodiments, the membrane has a thickness in the range of 1 pm to 100 pm, or 5 pm to 75 pm, or 15 pm to 50 pm, or 20 pm to 45 pm, or 25 pm to 40 pm, or 30 pm to 35 pm. The thickness of the membrane can be measured using optical analysis. First fabric layer The laminate according to the invention comprises a first fabric layer disposed on a first face of the membrane. In some embodiments, the first fabric layer comprises at least one of cellulosic fibers, a thermoplastic polymer, or a combination thereof. The inventors identified that these fabrics have advantages including being low-weight, structurally robust, cost-effective, and commercially available. Suitable cellulosic fibers include “natural” cellulosic fibers such as cotton, plant fibers (e.g., pineapple fiber and banana fiber), bast fiber, and combinations thereof, as well as “man-made” cellulosic fibers such as lyocell, modal, viscose, and combinations thereof. For example, the inventors identified that Tencel™ Lyocell, Tencel™ Modal and 100% organic or Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) cotton are suitable cellulosic fibers for the first fabric layer. Suitable thermoplastic polymers for the first fabric layer include those in the group consisting of polyhydroxyalkanoate, polybutylene succinate, polylactic acid, polyethylene, polyamide, or a combination thereof. It may be advantageous for the first fabric layer to be made from the family of materials or preferably the same material from which the membrane is made of so that it is easier to recycle the laminate. For example, in some embodiments the membrane and the first fabric layer each consist essentially of, or consist of, PHA. In some embodiments, the first fabric layer is aerobically biodegradable in soil in accordance with ASTM D5988-18. The first fabric layer may be at least 92 wt%, at least 94 wt%, at least 96 wt%, at least 98 wt%, or about 100wt% biodegraded within a period of 2 years, or 1 year, or 180 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with the method of ASTM D5988-18. In some embodiments, the first fabric layer is aerobically biodegradable in marine environments in accordance with ASTM 7081-05. The first fabric layer may have at least 75 wt%, at least 80wt %, at least 85 wt%, at least 90 wt%, at least 95 wt%, at least 99 wt%, or about 100 wt% physical degradation below 2 mm within a period of 180 days, or 150 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with the method of ASTM 7081-05. The first fabric layer may also have at least a 40 wt% carbon dioxide evolution, at least 50 wt% carbon dioxide evolution, at least 60 wt% carbon dioxide evolution, at least 70 wt% carbon dioxide evolution, at least 80 wt% carbon dioxide evolution, at least 90 wt% carbon dioxide evolution, at least 99 wt% carbon dioxide evolution or about 100 wt% carbon dioxide evolution within a period of 180 days, or 150 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with the method of ASTM 7081-05. In some embodiments, the first fabric layer is aerobically biodegradable in marine environments in accordance with ASTM D6691-17. The first fabric layer may have at least 20 wt%, at least 30 wt%, at least 40wt%, at least 50 wt%, at least 60 wt%, at least 70 wt%. at least 80 wt%, at least 90 wt%, at least 95 wt%, at least 99 wt%, or about 100 wt% biodegradation below pellet size (3-4 mm) within a period of 180 days, or 150 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with the method of ASTM D6691-17. The first fabric layer may also have at least a 40 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, at least 50 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, at least 60 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, at least 70 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, at least 80 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, at least 90 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, at least 99 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, or about 100 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion within a period of 365 days, or 180 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with the method of ASTM D6691-17. In some embodiments, the first fabric layer is compostable in accordance with ASTM D6400-19. In some embodiments, at least 90 wt%, at least 92 wt%, at least 94 wt%, at least 96 wt%, at least 98 wt%, or about 100 wt% of the first fabric layer physically disintegrates to a particle size of <2 mm within 90 days, or 60 days, or 45 days, or 30 days in accordance with ASTM D6400-19. In some embodiments, at least 90 wt%, at least 92 wt%, at least 94 wt%, at least 96 wt%, at least 98 wt%, or about 100 wt% of the carbon content of the first fabric layer is converted to carbon dioxide within 180 days, or 150 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with ASTM D6400-19. In some embodiments, the first fabric layer has a thermophilic biodegradability by anaerobic digestion of at least 10wt%, or 20wt%, or 30wt%, or 40wt%, or 50wt%, or 60wt%, or 70wt%, or 80wt%, or 90wt%, or 99wt%, or about 100wt% within 180 days, or 150 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with ASTM D5511-18. In some embodiments, the first fabric layer has a mesophilic anaerobic biodegradability by anaerobic digestion of at least 10wt%, or 20wt%, or 30wt%, or 40wt%, or 50wt%, or 60wt%, or 70wt%, or 80wt%, or 90wt%, or 99wt%, or about 100wt% within 180 days, or 150 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with ASTM D5511-18. Fabric structure can affect the breathability and structural integrity of the first fabric layer. In some embodiments, the first fabric layer has a woven fabric structure. In a woven fabric structure, two sets of yarn (of the first fabric layer material) are interlaced substantially orthogonally in a regular and recurring pattern. The first fabric layer may have a woven ripstop fabric structure. Ripstop structures are woven structures which are reinforced to make them more resistant to tearing and ripping. For example, the first fabric layer may be interwoven with portions of thicker fibers to form a ripstop structure. The first fabric layer may be made from fibers having a continuous filament type. Continuous filaments are more robust than spun or staple filaments because the yarn from which the first fabric layer is made is formed from a single string of filament, rather than smaller strands. In some embodiments, the yarn size of the first fabric layer is 100s, where 100s means that there are 100 hanks (1 hank = 840 yards) of yarn in one pound of material. In some embodiments, the yarn count of the first fabric layer is 100 / 2 denier. In some embodiments, the density of warp yarn in the first fabric layer is from 200 inches to 250 inches, for example 227 inches. In some embodiments, the density of weft yarn in the first fabric layer is from 125 inches to 175 inches, for example 150 inches. The weight of a fabric (measured in grams per square metre (gsm)) affects the breathability and robustness of the material. In general, thicker fabrics are more robust but less breathable. In some embodiments, the weight of the first fabric layer is from 10 gsm to 500 gsm, preferably 25 gsm to 400 gsm, more preferably 40 gsm to 300 gsm, more preferably 50 gsm to 200 gsm, more preferably 60 gsm to 150 gsm and more preferably 70 gsm to 100 gsm. The inventors identified that these weights gave the most effective balance of breathability and robustness characteristics. In one exemplary embodiment, the weight of the first fabric layer is 97 or 98 gsm. The mass per unit area (i.e., gsm) of a fabric can be measured in accordance with ASTM D3776-20. In particular, Option A of ASTM D3776-20 can be used for measuring commercial-scale fabric samples and Option D of ASTM D3776-20 can be used for measuring narrow fabrics (i.e., 300 mm widths or less). In some embodiments, the first fabric layer has a breathability (VWTR) of at least 50 g / m2 / d, for example at least 100 g / m2 / d, at least 150 g / m2 / d, at least 200 g / m2 / d, at least 250 g / m2 / d, at least 300 g / m2 / d, at least 350 g / m2 / d, at least 400 g / m2 / d, at least 450 g / m2 / d, at least 500 g / m2 / d, at least 550 g / m2 / d, at least 600 g / m2 / d, at least 650 g / m2 / d, at least 700 g / m2 / d, at least 800 g / m2 / d, at least 900 g / m2 / d, or at least 1000 g / m2 / d. The first fabric layer is disposed on at least a portion of the first face of the membrane. In some embodiments, the first fabric layer is disposed on substantially all of the first face of the membrane. In some embodiments, the first fabric layer comprises a dyeing agent for imparting a colour onto the first fabric layer. The dyeing agent may be a reactive dyeing agent, wherein the dye is fixed to the fabric material chemically. In some embodiments, the dyeing agent is a biodegradable dyeing agent. In this way, the overall laminate has a better biodegradability than laminates using non-biodegradable dyeing agents in the first fabric layer. In some embodiments, the dyeing agent is derived from fungus. In some embodiments, the first fabric layer is mercerized. Mercerisation is a textile finishing treatment for fabric which improves the strength of the fabric to resist tearing and improves the ability of the fabric to uptake dyeing agent. Optionally, mercerisation can reduce fabric shrinkage and provide a glossier appearance to the fabric. The first fabric layer may comprise cotton. The first fabric layer may comprise organic cotton. The first fabric layer may comprise or consist of 100% organic or Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) cotton. The first fabric layer may comprise cotton and have a woven ripstop fabric structure with a weight of 98 gsm. Water Repellent Laver In some embodiments, the laminate according to the present invention comprises a water repellent layer disposed on at least a portion of a surface of the first fabric layer opposite the surface of the first fabric layer which is disposed on the membrane. The water repellent layer comprises a water repellent. In some embodiments, the water repellent layer consists of water repellent. The water repellent layer may be disposed on substantially all of the surface of the first fabric layer. The water repellent layer helps to repel water from the laminate. One way in which a water repellent layer achieves this is by reducing the surface tension of the surface of the laminate, which allows water to pour off the laminate more easily. The water repellent layer may also increase the breathability of the laminate. In some embodiments, the water repellent layer comprises a Durable water repellent (DWR). The water repellent layer may be disposed on the first fabric layer by spraying, dipping, chemical vapour deposition and so on. The water repellent layer may be non-self supporting. For example, the water repellent layer may be a coating of water repellent material on the first fabric layer. In some embodiments, the water repellent layer is aerobically biodegradable in soil in accordance with ASTM D5988-18. The water repellent layer may be at least 92 wt%, at least 94 wt%, at least 96 wt%, at least 98 wt%, or about 100 wt% biodegraded within a period of 2 years, or 1 year, or 180 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with the method of ASTM D5988-18. In some embodiments, the water repellent layer is aerobically biodegradable in marine environments in accordance with ASTM 7081-05. The water repellent layer may have at least 75 wt%, at least 80wt %, at least 85 wt%, at least 90 wt%, at least 95 wt%, at least 99 wt%, or about 100 wt% physical degradation below 2 mm within a period of 180 days, or 150 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with the method of ASTM 7081-05. The water repellent layer may also have at least a 40 wt% carbon dioxide evolution, at least 50 wt% carbon dioxide evolution, at least 60 wt% carbon dioxide evolution, at least 70 wt% carbon dioxide evolution, at least 80 wt% carbon dioxide evolution, at least 90 wt% carbon dioxide evolution, at least 99 wt% carbon dioxide evolution or about 100 wt% carbon dioxide evolution within a period of 180 days, or 150 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with the method of ASTM 7081-05. In some embodiments, the water repellent layer is aerobically biodegradable in marine environments in accordance with ASTM D6691-17. The water repellent layer may have at least 20 wt%, at least 30 wt%, at least 40wt%, at least 50 wt%, at least 60 wt%, at least 70 wt%, at least 80 wt%, at least 90 wt%, at least 95 wt%, at least 99 wt%, or about 100 wt% biodegradation below pellet size (3-4 mm) within a period of 180 days, or 150 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with the method of ASTM D6691-17. The water repellent layer may also have at least a 40 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, at least 50 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, at least 60 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, at least 70 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, at least 80 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, at least 90 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, at least 99 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, or about 100 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion within a period of 365 days, or 180 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with the method of ASTM D6691-17. In some embodiments, the water repellent layer is compostable in accordance with ASTM D6400-19. In some embodiments, at least 90 wt%, at least 92 wt%, at least 94 wt%, at least 96 wt%, at least 98 wt%, or about 100 wt% of the water repellent layer physically disintegrates to a particle size of <2 mm within 90 days, or 60 days, or 45 days, or 30 days in accordance with ASTM D6400-19. In some embodiments, at least 90 wt%, at least 92 wt%, at least 94 wt%, at least 96 wt%, at least 98 wt%, or about 100 wt% of the carbon content of the water repellent layer is converted to carbon dioxide within 180 days, or 150 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with ASTM D6400-19. In some embodiments, the water repellent layer has a thermophilic biodegradability by anaerobic digestion of at least 10wt%, or 20wt%, or 30wt%, or 40wt%, or 50wt%, or 60wt%, or 70wt%, or 80wt%, or 90wt%, or 99wt%, or about 100wt% within 180 days, or 150 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with ASTM D5511-18. In some embodiments, the water repellent layer has a mesophilic anaerobic biodegradability by anaerobic digestion of at least 10wt%, or 20wt%, or 30wt%, or 40wt%, or 50wt%, or 60wt%, or 70wt%, or 80wt%, or 90wt%, or 99wt%, or about 100wt% within 180 days, or 150 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with ASTM D5511-18. The thickness and relative weight of the water repellent layer may be kept as small as possible while maintaining an effective water repellent property. The inventors identified that thicker water repellent layers can detract from the desired “feel” of the laminate, as well as increase the cost of manufacture. Furthermore, in embodiments where the water repellent layer is not itself biodegradable, compostable, recyclable, and / or biologically derived (or is only partially biodegradable, compostable, recyclable, and / or biologically derived), it is desirable to reduce the amount of water repellent layer in the laminate so that the these properties of the laminate are not substantially affected by the presence of this water repellent layer. In some embodiments, the weight of the water repellent layer is 10 wt% or less, or 5 wt% or less, or 1 wt% or less, or 0.1 wt% or less, based on the total weight of the laminate. In one exemplary embodiment, a first fabric layer made of 100% organic cotton and having a woven ripstop fabric structure and with a weight of 98 gsm and having a Durable water repellent disposed thereon is disposed on the first face of the membrane. Second Fabric Laver In some embodiments, the laminate according to the present invention comprises a second fabric layer disposed on a second face of the membrane opposite the first face of the membrane. In other words, the laminate may comprise, in order, the first fabric layer, the membrane and the second fabric layer. When the water repellent layer described above is present, the laminate may comprise, in order, the water repellent layer, the first fabric layer, the membrane and the second fabric layer. The second fabric layer may also be described as an inner fabric layer, since it is disposed on an inner surface of the laminate during use of the laminate. For example, the second fabric layer may be disposed on the side of the laminate closest to the body of a wearer, when the wearer is wearing an item of clothing which comprises the laminate. In some embodiments, the second fabric layer comprises at least one of cellulosic fibers, a thermoplastic polymer, or a combination thereof. Suitable cellulosic fibers for the second fabric layer include “natural” cellulosic fibers such as cotton, plant fibers (e.g., pineapple fiber and banana fiber), bast fiber. And combinations thereof, as well as “man-made” cellulosic fibers such as lyocell, modal, viscose, and combinations thereof. It is similarly advantageous for the second fabric layer as it is for the first fabric layer that these fabrics are low-weight, structurally robust, cost-effective, and commercially available. For example, the inventors identified that Tencel™ Lyocell and Tencel™ Modal are suitable cellulosic fibers for the second fabric layer. For example, the second fabric layer may comprise or consist of Tencel™ Luxe. Suitable thermoplastic polymers for the second fabric layer include those in the group consisting of polyhydroxyalkanoate, polybutylene succinate, polylactic acid, polyethylene, polyamide, or a combination thereof. As with the first fabric layer, it may be advantageous for the second fabric layer to be made from the family of materials or preferably the same material from which the membrane is made of and preferably from which both the membrane and the first fabric layer are made of so that it is easier to recycle the laminate. For example, in some embodiments the membrane and the first fabric layer consist essentially of PHA, while in certain embodiments all of the membrane, first fabric layer and the second fabric layer consist essentially of PHA. In some embodiments, the second fabric layer is aerobically biodegradable in soil in accordance with ASTM D5988-18. The second fabric layer may be at least 92 wt%, at least 94 wt%, at least 96 wt%, at least 98 wt%, or about 100wt% biodegraded within a period of 2 years, or 1 year, or 180 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with the method of ASTM D5988-18. In some embodiments, the second fabric layer is aerobically biodegradable in marine environments in accordance with ASTM 7081-05. The second fabric layer may have at least 75 wt%, at least 80wt %, at least 85 wt%, at least 90 wt%, at least 95 wt%, at least 99 wt%, or about 100 wt% physical degradation below 2 mm within a period of 180 days, or 150 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with the method of ASTM 7081-05. The second fabric layer may also have at least a 40 wt% carbon dioxide evolution, at least 50 wt% carbon dioxide evolution, at least 60 wt% carbon dioxide evolution, at least 70 wt% carbon dioxide evolution, at least 80 wt% carbon dioxide evolution, at least 90 wt% carbon dioxide evolution, at least 99 wt% carbon dioxide evolution or about 100 wt% carbon dioxide evolution within a period of 180 days, or 150 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with the method of ASTM 7081-05. In some embodiments, the second fabric layer is aerobically biodegradable in marine environments in accordance with ASTM D6691-17. The second fabric layer may have at least 20 wt%, at least 30 wt%, at least 40wt%, at least 50 wt%, at least 60 wt%, at least 70 wt%, at least 80 wt%, at least 90 wt%, at least 95 wt%, at least 99 wt%, or about 100 wt% biodegradation below pellet size (3-4 mm) within a period of 180 days, or 150 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with the method of ASTM D6691-17. The second fabric layer may also have at least a 40 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, at least 50 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, at least 60 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, at least 70 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, at least 80 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, at least 90 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, at least 99 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, or about 100 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion within a period of 365 days, or 180 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with the method of ASTM D6691-17. In some embodiments, the second fabric layer is compostable in accordance with ASTM D6400-19. In some embodiments, at least 90wt%, at least 92 wt%, at least 94 wt%, at least 96 wt%, at least 98 wt%, or about 100 wt% of the second fabric layer physically disintegrates to a particle size of <2 mm within 90 days, or 60 days, or 45 days, or 30 days in accordance with ASTM D6400-19. In some embodiments, at least 90wt%, at least 92 wt%, at least 94 wt%, at least 96 wt%, at least 98 wt%, or about 100 wt% of the carbon content of the second fabric layer is converted to carbon dioxide within 180 days, or 150 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with ASTM D6400-19. In some embodiments, the second fabric layer has a thermophilic biodegradability by anaerobic digestion of at least 10wt%, or 20wt%, or 30wt%, or 40wt%, or 50wt%, or 60wt%, or 70wt%, or 80wt%, or 90wt%, or 99wt%, or about 100wt% within 180 days, or 150 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with ASTM D5511-18. In some embodiments, the second fabric layer has a mesophilic anaerobic biodegradability by anaerobic digestion of at least 10wt%, or 20wt%, or 30wt%, or 40wt%, or 50wt%, or 60wt%, or 70wt%, or 80wt%, or 90wt%, or 99wt%, or about 100wt% within 180 days, or 150 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with ASTM D5511-18. In some embodiments, the second fabric layer has a knit fabric structure. A knit structure is composed of interlocking loops of yarn to form an anisotropic arrangement. Unlike woven structures, knit structures are not orientated into any particular direction and the yarn direction changes continuously. The inventors identified that knit structures are more stretchable and distortable than other fabric structures and so are particularly suited for the second fabric layer. The second fabric layer may have a knit jersey fabric structure. Jersey structures will be familiar to the skilled person but, briefly, are knit structures where loops of material are meshed in the same direction. The inventors identified that providing the second fabric layer as a jersey knit structure made the second fabric layer lightweight and stretchy, which are particularly desirable characteristics when the second fabric layer functions as a liner layer or base layer underneath more durable layers. In some embodiments, the second fabric layer has a weft or warped knitted construction. For example, the second fabric layer may have a circular knit construction or a tricot knit construction. The second fabric layer may be made from fibers having a continuous filament type. Continuous filaments are more robust than spun or staple filaments because the material from which the second fabric layer is made is formed from a single string of filament, rather than smaller strands. In some embodiments, the weight of the second fabric layer is less than 500 gsm, preferably less than 400 gsm, more preferably less than 300 gsm, more preferably less than 200 gsm, more preferably less than 100 gsm, more preferably less than 75 gsm, and more preferably less than 50 gsm. In some embodiments, the weight of the second fabric layer is from 1 gsm to 500 gsm, preferably 5 gsm to 250 gsm, and more preferably 10 gsm to 100 gsm. In one exemplary embodiment, the weight of the second fabric layer is about 66 gsm. The inventors found that having weights in these ranges were advantageous because it is desirable for the second fabric layer to be lightweight, particularly when it serves to function as a liner or base material. In some embodiments, the second fabric layer has a breathability (WVTR) of at least 50 g / m2 / d, for example at least 100 g / m2 / d, at least 150 g / m2 / d, at least 200 g / m2 / d, at least 250 g / m2 / d, at least 300 g / m2 / d, at least 350 g / m2 / d, at least 400 g / m2 / d, at least 450 g / m2 / d, at least 500 g / m2 / d, at least 550 g / m2 / d, at least 600 g / m2 / d, at least 650 g / m2 / d, at least 700 g / m2 / d, at least 800 g / m2 / d, at least 900 g / m2 / d, or at least 1,000 g / m2 / d. The second fabric layer is disposed on at least a portion of the second face of the membrane. In some embodiments, the second fabric layer is disposed on substantially all of the second face of the membrane. In some embodiments, the second fabric layer comprises a dyeing agent for imparting a colour onto the second fabric layer. In some embodiments, the dyeing agent is a biodegradable dyeing agent. In this way, the overall laminate has a better biodegradability than laminates using non-biodegradable dyeing agents in the second fabric layer. In some embodiments, the dyeing agent is derived from fungus. In some embodiments, the second fabric layer has a torque of from 0% to 10%, for example 0 to 5%, or 0-3%. Torque in this field refers to the degree of twisting or spiral deformation in a yarn or fabric caused during the manufacturing process. A greater degree of torque can adversely impact the strength, stretch and overall durability of the fabric. The torque of a fabric can be measured using the method according to ISO 16322:2021. Neighbouring layers within the laminate may be attached by any suitable means of attachment. For example, neighbouring layers may be attached to one another using an adhesive. The adhesive may be used at discrete locations between two neighbouring layers, for example at discrete points or lines. Alternatively a continuous layer of adhesive may be present between two neighbouring layers. Other possible means of attachment include mechanical attachment of two neighbouring layers, for example stitching or stapling. In some embodiments, layers of the laminate may be attached to one or more other layers of the laminate only around a peripheral or edge region, with layers being unattached to any neighbouring layers within a central region of the laminate. Adhesive In some embodiments, the first fabric layer is attached to the membrane with an adhesive. In some embodiments, the second fabric layer is attached to the membrane with an adhesive. The first and second fabric layers may each be attached to the membrane with an adhesive. The adhesive may be disposed between the first face of the membrane and the surface of the first fabric layer, and / or between the second face of the membrane and the surface of the second fabric layer. The adhesive may be disposed on at least a portion of the first face of the membrane and the surface of the first fabric layer. The adhesive may be disposed on at least a portion of the second face of the membrane and the surface of the second fabric layer. The adhesive may be disposed on at least a portion of the first face of the membrane and the surface of the first fabric layer, and also on at least a portion of the second face of the membrane and the surface of the second fabric layer. In some embodiments the adhesive forms a layer between the first face of the membrane and the surface of the first fabric layer. In some embodiments the adhesive forms a layer between the second face of the membrane and the surface of the second fabric layer. In some embodiments the adhesive forms a first layer between the first face of the membrane and the surface of the first fabric layer, and a second layer between the second face of the membrane and the surface of the second fabric layer. In some embodiments, the adhesive for attaching either the first or second fabric layer to the membrane is a thermoplastic adhesive. In some embodiments, the processing temperature of the adhesive is in the range of 100 °C to 200 °C, for example 140 °C to 180 °C. Processing temperature here refers to the temperature range in which the melt viscosity of the adhesive is suitable for applying onto a substrate, but below the temperature at which accelerated cross-linking of the adhesive occurs. In some embodiments, the density at 20 °C of the adhesive as measured in accordance with ISO 1183-1:2019 is from 0.90 kg / m3 to 1.20 kg / m3, preferably from 0.95 kg / m3 to 1.15 kg / m3, and more preferably from 0.98 kg / m3 to 1.10 kg / m3. In some embodiments, the adhesive is aerobically biodegradable in soil in accordance with ASTM D5988-18. Preferably, the adhesive may be at least 92 wt%, at least 94 wt%, at least 96 wt%, at least 98 wt%, or about 100wt% biodegraded within a period of 2 years, or 1 year, or 180 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with the method of ASTM D5988-18. In some embodiments, the adhesive is aerobically biodegradable in marine environments in accordance with ASTM 7081-05. The adhesive may have at least 75 wt%, at least 80wt %, at least 85 wt%, at least 90 wt%, at least 95 wt%, at least 99 wt%, or about 100 wt% physical degradation below 2 mm within a period of 180 days, or 150 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with the method of ASTM 7081-05. The adhesive may also have at least a 40 wt% carbon dioxide evolution, at least 50 wt% carbon dioxide evolution, at least 60 wt% carbon dioxide evolution, at least 70 wt% carbon dioxide evolution, at least 80 wt% carbon dioxide evolution, at least 90 wt% carbon dioxide evolution, at least 99 wt% carbon dioxide evolution or about 100 wt% carbon dioxide evolution within a period of 180 days, or 150 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with the method of ASTM 7081-05. In some embodiments, the adhesive is aerobically biodegradable in marine environments in accordance with ASTM D6691-17. The adhesive may have at least 20 wt%, at least 30 wt%, at least 40wt%, at least 50 wt%, at least 60 wt%, at least 70 wt%, at least 80 wt%, at least 90 wt%, at least 95 wt%, at least 99 wt%, or about 100 wt% biodegradation below pellet size (3-4 mm) within a period of 180 days, or 150 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with the method of ASTM D6691-17. The adhesive may also have at least a 40 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, at least 50 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, at least 60 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, at least 70 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, at least 80 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, at least 90 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, at least 99 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, or about 100 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion within a period of 365 days, or 180 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with the method of ASTM D6691-17. In some embodiments, the adhesive is compostable in accordance with ASTM D6400-19. In some embodiments, at least 90wt%, at least 92 wt%, at least 94 wt%, at least 96 wt%, at least 98 wt%, or about 100 wt% of the adhesive physically disintegrates to a particle size of <2 mm within 90 days, or 60 days, or 45 days, or 30 days in accordance with ASTM D6400-19. In some embodiments, at least 90wt%, at least 92 wt%, at least 94 wt%, at least 96 wt%, at least 98 wt%, or about 100 wt% of the carbon content of the adhesive is converted to carbon dioxide within 180 days, or 150 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with ASTM D6400-19. In some embodiments, the adhesive has a thermophilic biodegradability by anaerobic digestion of at least 10wt%, or 20wt%, or 30wt%, or 40wt%, or 50wt%, or 60wt%, or 70wt%, or 80wt%, or 90wt%, or 99wt%, or about 100wt% within 180 days, or 150 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with ASTM D5511-18. In some embodiments, the adhesive has a mesophilic anaerobic biodegradability by anaerobic digestion of at least 10wt%, or 20wt%, or 30wt%, or 40wt%, or 50wt%, or 60wt%, or 70wt%, or 80wt%, or 90wt%, or 99wt%, or about 100wt% within 180 days, or 150 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with ASTM D5511-18. Preferred adhesives include Platamid® HX 2592 and Jowatherm® GROW 853.22. Platamid® HX-2592 is 50-85% biologically derived and Platamid® HX2592 is 80% biologically derived. As with the water repellent layer, in embodiments where the adhesive is not itself biodegradable, compostable, recyclable and / or biologically derived (or is only partially biodegradable, compostable, recyclable and / or biologically derived), it is desirable to reduce the amount of adhesive in the laminate so that the biodegradability, compostability, recyclability and biological derivability of the laminate is not substantially affected by the presence of this adhesive. In some embodiments, the weight of the adhesive is 10 wt% or less, for example 5 wt% or less, 1 wt% or less, or 0.1 wt% or less, based on the total weight of the laminate. Laminate The laminate according to the invention has at least a membrane layer and a first fabric layer. The laminate may have a second fabric layer disposed on an opposite face of the membrane to that on which the first fabric layer is disposed on the membrane. Put otherwise, the laminate may have the structure A-B-A’, where A represents the first fabric layer, A’ represents the second fabric layer and B represents the membrane layer. The laminate may have the structure C-A-B-A’, where A represents the first fabric layer, A’ represents the second fabric layer, B represents the membrane layer and C represents the water repellent layer or coating. The laminate may have the structure C-A-D-B-D-A'. where A represents the first fabric layer, A’ represents the second fabric layer, B represents the membrane layer, C represents the water repellent layer or coating, and D represents adhesive layers. In some embodiments, layer A (or layer C, when present) is configured to be an outer layer of the laminate during use. In some embodiments, layer A’ is configured to be an inner layer of the laminate during use. In some embodiments, the laminate consists of the first fabric layer, the second fabric layer, the membrane layer, the water repellent layer or coating, and one or more adhesive layers. However the laminate may contain one or more further layers in addition to the layers already described herein. Furthermore, the laminate may contain a plurality of instances of any one of the layers described herein. In some embodiments, the laminate comprises a plurality of membrane layers as defined herein. In some embodiments, the laminate comprises a plurality of first fabric layers as defined herein. In some embodiments, the laminate comprises a plurality of second fabric layers as defined herein. Figure 1 shows a two-layer laminate 10 according to the invention comprising a membrane layer 12 and a first fabric layer 14 disposed on a face of the membrane layer 12. Figure 2 shows a three-layer laminate 20 according to the invention comprising a membrane layer 22, a first fabric layer 24 disposed on one face of the membrane layer 22, and a second fabric layer 26 disposed on an opposite face of the membrane layer 22 to that on which the first fabric layer 24 is disposed. In some embodiments, the laminate is aerobically biodegradable in soil in accordance with ASTM D5988-18. The laminate may be at least 92 wt%, at least 94 wt%, at least 96 wt%, at least 98 wt%, or about 100wt% biodegraded within a period of 2 years, or 1 year, or 180 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with the method of ASTM D5988-18. In some embodiments, the laminate is aerobically biodegradable in marine environments in accordance with ASTM 7081-05. The laminate may have at least 75 wt%, at least 80wt %, at least 85 wt%, at least 90 wt%, at least 95 wt%, at least 99 wt%, or about 100 wt% physical degradation below 2 mm within a period of 180 days, or 150 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with the method of ASTM 7081-05. The laminate may also have at least a 40 wt% carbon dioxide evolution, at least 50 wt% carbon dioxide evolution, at least 60 wt% carbon dioxide evolution, at least 70 wt% carbon dioxide evolution, at least 80 wt% carbon dioxide evolution, at least 90 wt% carbon dioxide evolution, at least 99 wt% carbon dioxide evolution or about 100 wt% carbon dioxide evolution within a period of 180 days, or 150 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with the method of ASTM 7081-05. In some embodiments, the laminate is aerobically biodegradable in marine environments in accordance with ASTM D6691-17. The laminate may have at least 20 wt%, at least 30 wt%, at least 40wt%, at least 50 wt%, at least 60 wt%, at least 70 wt%, at least 80 wt%, at least 90 wt%, at least 95 wt%, at least 99 wt%, or about 100 wt% biodegradation below pellet size (3-4 mm) within a period of 180 days, or 150 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with the method of ASTM D6691-17. The laminate may also have at least a 40 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, at least 50 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, at least 60 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, at least 70 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, at least 80 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, at least 90 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, at least 99 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion, or about 100 wt% carbon to carbon dioxide conversion within a period of 365 days, or 180 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with the method of ASTM D6691-17. In some embodiments, the laminate is compostable in accordance with ASTM D6400-19. In some embodiments, at least 90wt%, at least 92 wt%, at least 94 wt%, at least 96 wt%, at least 98 wt%, or about 100 wt% of the laminate physically disintegrates to a particle size of <2 mm within 90 days, or 60 days, or 45 days, or 30 days in accordance with ASTM D6400-19. In some embodiments, at least 90wt%, at least 92 wt%, at least 94 wt%, at least 96 wt%, at least 98 wt%, or about 100 wt% of the carbon content of the laminate is converted to carbon dioxide within 180 days, or 150 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with ASTM D6400-19. In some embodiments, the laminate has a thermophilic biodegradability by anaerobic digestion of at least 10wt%, or 20wt%, or 30wt%, or 40wt%, or 50wt%, or 60wt%, or 70wt%, or 80wt%, or 90wt%, or 99wt%, or about 100wt% within 180 days, or 150 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with ASTM D5511-18. In some embodiments, the laminate has a mesophilic anaerobic biodegradability by anaerobic digestion of at least 10wt%, or 20wt%, or 30wt%, or 40wt%, or 50wt%, or 60wt%, or 70wt%, or 80wt%, or 90wt%, or 99wt%, or about 100wt% within 180 days, or 150 days, or 120 days, or 90 days, or 60 days, or 30 days in accordance with ASTM D5511-18. When some of the components of the laminate are not biodegradable or are only partially biodegradable, the total laminate may still be biodegradable if these components represent a relatively small quantity of the overall weight of the laminate. For example, a laminate according to the present invention comprising a compostable (in accordance with ASTM 6400-19) membrane, a compostable first fabric layer and a non-compostable adhesive between the membrane and the first fabric layer may itself be compostable in accordance with ASTM 6400-19 as long as the adhesive is present in a relatively small weight quantity and / or if the adhesive is close to the threshold according to ASTM D6400-19 for being a compostable material. In some embodiments, the laminate has a waterproofness (WC) measured in accordance with ISO 811:2018 of at least 0.5 metres, for example at least 1 metre, at least 1.5 metres, at least 2 metres, at least 2.5 metres, at least 3 metres, at least 4 metres, at least 5 metres, at least 6 metres, at least 7 metres, at least 8 metres, at least 9 metres, at least 10 metres, at least 15 metres, or at least 20 metres. In some embodiments, the laminate has a breathability (WVTR) measured in accordance with ASTM E96, Method B of at least 50 g / m2 / d, for example at least 100 g / m2 / d, at least 150 g / m2 / d, at least 200 g / m2 / d, at least 250 g / m2 / d, at least 300 g / m2 / d, at least 350 g / m2 / d, at least 400 g / m2 / d, at least 450 g / m2 / d, at least 500 g / m2 / d, at least 550 g / m2 / d, at least 600 g / m-7d, at least 650 g / m2 / d, at least 700 g / m2 / d, at least 800 g / m2 / d, at least 900 g / m2 / d, at least 1000 g / m2 / d, at least 1100 g / m2 / d, or at least 1200 g / m2 / d. Method The second aspect is a method of manufacturing the aforementioned laminate. In some embodiments, the method comprises providing the membrane described above, and disposing a first fabric layer on a first face of the membrane. In some embodiments, the method comprises providing the membrane described above, and adhering a first fabric layer onto a first face of the membrane. In some embodiments, the method comprises the steps of: (a) converting a feedstock into a precursor comprising biodegradable material; (b) forming the precursor into a membrane; and (c) disposing a first fabric layer on a first face of the membrane. In some embodiments, the feedstock is converted into a precursor using fermentation, for example microbial fermentation. The feedstock may be any feedstock. In some embodiments, the feedstock is biologically derived in accordance with ASTM D6866-22. The feedstock may be an oil, for example a biologically derived oil in accordance with ASTM D6866-22. The feedstock may also be biomass (i.e., organic solid or liquid matter). In some embodiments, the feedstock is at least one selected from the group consisting of palm oil, cooking oil, and biomass. For example, the feedstock may be palm oil. The skilled person will be generally familiar with suitable techniques for processing a polymer precursor into a desired structure such as a membrane. For example, the precursor may be formed into the membrane using injection moulding or extrusion methods. Disposing the first fabric layer on the first face of the membrane may comprise bringing the first fabric layer into contact with the membrane. The first fabric layer may be disposed onto the first face of the membrane by a hot melt process, for example via dotted lamination. In this way, adhesive heated to its processing temperature is applied onto one of the membrane or the first fabric layer using a gravure roller, preferably a rotogravure roller, before one layer is pressed onto the other layer. For example, if adhesive is applied onto the membrane, the membrane may be pressed onto the first fabric layer, while if adhesive is applied onto the first fabric layer, the first fabric layer may be pressed onto the membrane. The membrane and the first fabric layer may be pressed together, for example using a laminating roller. The membrane and the first fabric layer may be pressed together by passing the membrane and first fabric layer through a laminating roller and a counter pressure roller. In this way, the first fabric layer may be disposed onto the first face of the membrane. To improve the bonding strength of the adhesive, the surface of the first fabric layer and the first face of the membrane are preferably dried and cleaned of dust, oil, grease and other impurities before they are disposed on one another. In some embodiments, the method further comprises a step of disposing a second fabric layer on a second face of the membrane. The second fabric layer may be disposed onto the second face of the membrane by a hot melt process in a similar way to that which the first fabric layer may be disposed onto the first face of the membrane. The second fabric layer may be disposed onto the membrane simultaneously to the first fabric layer, or a two-layer laminate of the membrane and the first fabric layer or the membrane and the second fabric layer may be prepared first and the other fabric layer disposed on it subsequently. In some embodiments, the method comprises a step of disposing a water repellent layer on at least a portion of a surface of the first fabric layer opposite the surface disposed on the membrane. The water repellent layer can be disposed on the first fabric layer by spraying, dipping, chemical vapour deposition and so on. In some embodiments, the method comprises a step of mercerizing the first fabric layer. This may involve, for example, treating the first fabric layer with an aqueous solution of sodium hydroxide. In some embodiments, the method comprises introducing pores into the membrane. In some embodiments, the method comprises introducing pores into the membrane using a template material. The template material may be combined with a membrane precursor material (e.g. polymeric material) and subsequently removed from the precursor material or removed from the membrane after formation of the membrane from the precursor material, to introduce pores into the membrane and / or the membrane precursor material. In some embodiments, the method comprises a step of introducing pores (for example, micropores) into the membrane by: (i) compounding the precursor with a template material; and (ii) removing the template material to obtain a membrane comprising pores. The template material may comprise or consist of particles, for example mineral particles. The pores may be micropores. It follows that the membrane which is subsequently formed from the precursor will comprise pores, such as micropores. The step of compounding the precursor with the template material may be achieved using a milling process. In some embodiments, the precursor is compounded with the template material by milling the precursor with the template material and optionally a solvent. Optionally, between steps (i) and (ii) above, the precursor (compounded with the template material) may be formed into a desired shape. For example, the precursor may be formed into the shape of the membrane. As such, the inventors envisage that in some embodiments steps (i) and (ii) could take place between steps (a) and (b) or steps (b) and (c). In some embodiments, removing the template material from the precursor includes a step of drying the precursor (compounded with the template material). In those embodiments in which the precursor comprises a solvent (i.e., where the precursor was milled with the template material and a solvent), the method comprises a step of drying the precursor, either before or after the template material are removed. In some embodiments, removing the template material includes a step of exposing the template material to a solution, preferably an aqueous solution. In this way, the template material is washed and / or dissolved by the aqueous solution and removed from the precursor or membrane. Preferably, the template material is water-soluble. The particles of template material may be considered as templates as they are removed in the step of obtaining the product comprising pores. “Template loading” can be used to refer to the amount of the template material compounded with the precursor. A higher template loading corresponds to a greater wt% proportion of the template material being compounded with the precursor, relative to the weight of the precursor. WO 2022 / 008370 (Dimpora AG), the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety, describes suitable methods of introducing porosity into a membrane using particles of a templating agent. In particular, the method described from page 8 line 7 to page 9 line 17 of that patent application may be used to introduce porosity to the membrane of the invention. Waterproof Product The third aspect of the invention is a waterproof product, the waterproof product comprising the aforementioned laminate. The waterproof product may be for outdoor use. “A waterproof product” is taken here to include clothing apparel, footwear, wearable accessories, tents, baggage and so on. The inventors envisage uses of the waterproof products comprising the laminate in e.g. clothing, medicine, agriculture, automotives and packaging. The skilled person will appreciate the need for waterproof products in these areas, for example to provide protection against the weather (rain, snow and so on) and against the environment (rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water). For example, the laminate according to the present invention could be used as a material for wearable waterproof clothing or footwear. The laminate is particularly advantageous in this field as it is both waterproof and breathable, while also being less environmentally impactful than traditional waterproof garments. The skilled person will recognise the increasing demand from consumers for products which enable a more environmentally friendly lifestyle, in particular clothing and other wearables which are less impactful on the environment. Therefore, one advantage of the laminate according to the present invention as a component of a waterproof product for outdoor use is its waterproofness property. Waterproof products may have a water column (as measured in accordance with ISO 811:2018) of at least 3 metres. Another advantage of the laminate as a component of a waterproof product is its breathability. Waterproof products may have a WVTR (as measured in accordance with ASTM E96 Method B) of at least 700 g / m2 / d. It is desirable that each of the membrane, the first fabric layer and (when present) the second fabric layer are all breathable in order to improve the breathability of the laminate and the overall waterproof product. In some embodiments of the waterproof product according to the present invention, the laminate comprises a membrane having a thickness in the range of 15 pm to 50 pm. The inventors identified that when the laminate comprised a membrane having a thickness in this range, the laminate had excellent durability and weight properties for a waterproof product for outdoor use. For example, it is desirable that waterproof clothing is durable in order to withstand outdoor conditions while being lightweight enough to not cause discomfort or fatigue to the user. *** The features disclosed in the foregoing description, or in the following claims, or in the accompanying drawings, expressed in their specific forms or in terms of a means for performing the disclosed function, or a method or process for obtaining the disclosed results, as appropriate, may, separately, or in any combination of such features, be utilised for realising the invention in diverse forms thereof. While the invention has been described in conjunction with the exemplary embodiments described above, many equivalent modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art when given this disclosure. Accordingly, the exemplary embodiments of the invention set forth above are considered to be illustrative and not limiting. Various changes to the described embodiments may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. For the avoidance of any doubt, any theoretical explanations provided herein are provided for the purposes of improving the understanding of a reader. The inventors do not wish to be bound by any of these theoretical explanations. Any section headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not to be construed as limiting the subject matter described. Throughout this specification, including the claims which follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word “comprise” and “include”, and variations such as “comprises”, “comprising”, and “including” will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or step or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or step or group of integers or steps. It must be noted that, as used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from “about” one particular value, and / or to “about” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular value and / or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by the use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment. The term “about” in relation to a numerical value is optional and means for example + / -10%. Examples In a first phase of these experimental trials, various materials were tested to determine their suitability as waterproof membranes for the laminate. For a waterproof laminate according to the present invention, the membrane should preferably have the properties set out in Table 1. A “low”, “medium” and “high” priority was assigned to each of these properties. For completeness, it is noted that “high” priority is not taken to mean that the property is essential, but rather that it is particularly desirable. Table 1 Property Target Value Importance Flexural Modulus (ASTM D790-17) 400-700 MPa MEDIUM Melting Point (ASTM D3418-99) >100 °C HIGH Melt Flow Rate (ASTM D1238-23) <20 MEDIUM Contact angle (hydrophobicity) (ASTM D5946) >90° HIGH The membrane should also comprise biodegradable material. It is particularly desirable that the membrane is made from 100% bio-based polymer feedstock (i.e., in accordance with ASTM D6866-22) and consists essentially of biodegradable and compostable (i.e., also in accordance with ASTM D6400-19) material. Based on these criteria, the inventors identified the following membrane materials fortesting: KANEKA Biodegradable Polymer Green Planet™ (PHBH), Helian Polymers polyhydroxyalkanoate blend PHAx10007 (PHA), Luminy® LX175 polylactic acid (PLA), CheilJedang BIO amorphous PHA PHACT™ A1000P (aPHA), Biomer® Biopolyesters (poly((R)3-hydroxybutyric acid polyester) (PHB) and KFUR BioFlex® (Bio-Flex). Desirable target performance parameters for a bare membrane suitable for the laminate according to the present invention are as follows: • A breathability (WVTR) in accordance with ASTM standard E96, Method B of 700 g / m2 / d or more; • A waterproofness (WC) in accordance with ISO 811:2018 of 5 metres or more; • A soft and flexible texture. The results of the experiments are shown in Table 2. Table 2 Sample Material WC (m) WVTR (g / m2 / d) Surface Tension (mN / m) Remarks 1.1 PHBH (T1) KANEKA PHBH 13 275 34-36 Nice handfeel, some holes in the sample 1.2 PHBH (T2) KANEKA PHBH 6 721 34-36 More brittle, compared to NaCI 1.3 PHBH (T3) KANEKA PHBH 28 112 34-36 Nice hand-feel 2.1 PHA(T1) PHAx10007 Helian 9 168 38-40 A lot of holes in the membrane 3.1 PHB (T1) PHB Biomer 20 280 34-36 Nice hand-feel 4.1 (Bio-Flex) (T1) Bio-Flex FKUR 16 210 34-36 Nice hand-feel 5.1 PLA (T3) PLA Luminy 42 55 36-38 Too rigid for membrane application 5.2 PLA:aPHA (T3) PLA:aPHA 70:30 13 420 44-46 Soft hand-feel 5.3 PLA:aPHA (blank) PLA;aPHA 90:10 Not measured Not measured 38-40 No remarks 6.1 aPHA (blank) aPHA Not measured Not measured Not measured Too soft and sticky Each of the measured membranes were microporous, with the exception of samples 5.3 and 6.1, which are non-porous. Membranes either had low porosity T1 (i.e., low template loading), medium porosity T2 (i.e., medium template loading), high porosity T3 (i.e., high template loading), or were non-porous (blank). By comparing samples 5.2 and 5.3, it was observed that introducing microporosity into the membrane 5 increases the membrane’s surface tension energy property. Pores were introduced into the membranes using the templating method set out in WO 2022 / 008370, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Figure 3 shows scanning electron micrographs of a face (left image) and of a side (middle and right images) of the membrane according to sample 1.2. 10 Optimization experiments were then conducted on a membrane consisting essentially of PHBH. These experiments aimed to reduce the thickness of the membrane and optimise the properties of the membrane by experimenting with different particle template loadings during the preparation of the microporous membrane. The microporous membrane was templated using acid soluble mineral particles. At a first stage of optimisation, the thickness of the PHBH membrane was in the range 70 pm to 80 pm. 15 Following optimisation of sample 1.3, the inventors observed the results shown in Table 3. Table 3 PHBH (T3) WVTR (g / m2 / d) WC (m) Remarks First phase 112 28 No shrinkage Optimisation 1190 16 No shrinkage Optimisation - repeat 1 1390 14 No shrinkage Optimisation - higher template loading 1220 9 Shrinkage (pores collapse at higher template loading, more complex compounding) Shrinkage experiments were performed by machine washing 5 cm x 5 cm or 15 cm x 15 cm (width x length) membrane or laminate samples at 30 °C - 50 °C and measuring the change in dimensions. It was identified that above a threshold template loading, undesirable shrinkage occurs due to pore collapse. Washing and drying can be performed in accordance with ISO 6330:2021. 5 Scale-up experiments were then conducted. Here, larger membranes of sample 1.3 were prepared having a width of 30 cm and the thickness of the membranes was decreased. The microporous membranes were templated using acid soluble particles. Figure 4 shows scanning electron micrographs of a face (left image) and of a side (middle and right images) of a membrane at the scale-up trial stage of laboratory experiments. The width of the membrane sample is 30 cm. The membrane consists 10 essentially of 3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate and is microporous. The membrane is substantially homogeneous with no bubbles or other defects present on its surface. Following scale-up of sample 1.3, the results shown in Table 4 were obtained. Table 4 PHBH (T3) WVTR (g / m2 / d) WC (m) Thickness (pm) Remarks First phase 112 28 70-80 No shrinkage Optimisation 1190 16 70-80 No shrinkage Scale-up: 30 pm thickness sample 1350 10 30 No shrinkage Scale-up: 20 pm thickness sample 1400 Not measured 20 No shrinkage Different template loadings were then applied to optimised, scaled-up PHBH membranes and their water 15 column and water vapor transmission rates were measured, as shown in Table 5. Table 5 Sample WVTR (g / m2 / d) WC (m) KANEKA PHBH; high template loading 1390 10 KANEKA PHBH; medium template loading 1341 4.4 KANEKA PHBH; low template loading 1174 4.5 The high template loading and low template loading membranes were particularly advantageous due to their combination of breathability and waterproofness properties. Fabrics from which to make the first and second fabric layers were then investigated in order to form a laminate with the optimised membrane. It was identified that suitable first and second fabric layer materials should preferably have properties according to Table 6. Table 6 Fabric Type Fiber Type Fabric Structure Weight (gsm) Filament Type First fabric layer Biodegradable, bio-based Woven 75 continuous Second fabric layer Biodegradable, bio-based Knit <50 continuous Based on these criteria, a first fabric layer was selected made from 100% organic cotton supplied by the Better Cotton Initiative, having a woven ripstop fabric structure and a 97-98 gsm weight and coated with a Durable water repellent (DWR) layer. A second fabric layer was selected made from 100% Tencel™ Lyocell, having a jersey knit fabric structure and a 66 gsm weight. A three-layer laminate was formed from the PHBH membrane, the cotton first fabric layer and the Lyocell second fabric layer using a method as illustrated in Figure 5. Firstly, the cotton first fabric layer 34 was disposed on the PHBH membrane layer 32 to form a two-layer laminate 30, The membrane layer 32 was provided from a first input 36, which may consist of a roller around which the membrane layer 32 is wound. The membrane layer 32 contacted a rotogravure roller 38 carrying a Jowatherm® GROW adhesive 40, which was deposited on a first face of the membrane layer 32. The first face of the membrane layer 32 then contacted the first fabric layer 34 provided from a second input 42, which may consist of a roller around which the first fabric layer 34 is wound. The first fabric layer 34 was pressed against the adhesive 40 on the first face of the membrane layer 32 by a laminating roller 44 and a counter pressure roller 46 to produce the two-layer laminate 30. The two-layer laminate 30 was stored at an output 48, which may consist of a roller around which the laminate 30 is wound. The method was then repeated, except that the two-layer laminate 30 and the Lyocell second fabric layer were used as inputs, to yield a three-layer laminate comprising first and second fabric layers disposed on opposite faces of the membrane layer. The breathability (WVTR) and waterproofness (WC) of the 3-layer laminate were measured as 1170 g / m2 / d and 3 m, respectively.

Claims

1. A laminate comprising:(a) a membrane comprising a biodegradable material; and(b) a first fabric layer disposed on a first face of the membrane.

2. The laminate according to claim 1, wherein the biodegradable material is biologically derived.

3. The laminate according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the membrane consists essentially of thebiodegradable material.

4. The laminate according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the biodegradable material consists essentially of a polyhydroxyalkanoate or of a blend of a polyhydroxyalkanoate and a polylactic acid.

5. The laminate according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the biodegradable material consists essentially of a polyhydroxyalkanoate.

6. The laminate according to claim 5, wherein the polyhydroxyalkanoate is a copolymer of 3-hydroxybutyrate and 3-hydroxyhexanoate.

7. The laminate according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the biodegradable material consists essentially of a blend of a polyhydroxyalkanoate and a polylactic acid.

8. The laminate according to claim 7, wherein the polyhydroxyalkanoate in the blend of a polyhydroxyalkanoate and a polylactic acid is an amorphous polyhydroxyalkanoate.

9. The laminate according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the membrane is microporous.

10. The laminate according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the membrane has a thickness from15 pm to 50 pm.

11. The laminate according to any one of claims 1 to 10, comprising a water repellent layer disposed on at least a portion of a surface of the first fabric layer opposite the surface disposed on the membrane.

12. The laminate according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the weight of the first fabric layer is from 10 grams per square metre to 500 grams per square metre.

13. The laminate according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the first fabric layer comprises at least one of cellulosic fibers, a thermoplastic polymer, or a combination thereof.

14. The laminate according to claim 13, wherein the cellulosic fibers of the first fabric layer are selected from the group consisting of cotton, lyocell, modal, viscose, or a combination thereof.

15. The laminate according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the thermoplastic polymer of the first fabric layer is selected from the group consisting of polyhydroxyalkanoate, polybutylene succinate, polylactic acid, polyethylene, polyamide, or a combination thereof.

16. The laminate according to any one of claims 1 to 15, comprising a second fabric layer disposed on a second face of the membrane opposite the first face of the membrane.

17. The laminate according to claim 16, wherein the second fabric layer comprises at least one of cellulosic fibers, a thermoplastic polymer, or a combination thereof.

18. The laminate according to claim 17, wherein the cellulosic fibers of the second fabric layer are selected from the group consisting of cotton, lyocell, modal, viscose, or a combination thereof.

19. The laminate according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the thermoplastic polymer of the second fabric layer is selected from the group consisting of polyhydroxyalkanoate, polybutylene succinate, polylactic acid, polyethylene, polyamide, or a combination thereof.

20. The laminate according to any one of claims 16 to 19, wherein the weight of the second fabric layer is less than 500 grams per square metre.

21. A membrane comprising a biodegradable material, wherein the membrane has a thickness of from 15 pm to 50 pm, and whereinthe biodegradable material comprises a polyhydroxyalkanoate or a blend of a polyhydroxyalkanoate and a polylactic acid.

22. The membrane according to claim 21, wherein the membrane has a water column of at least 5 metres.

23. The membrane according to claim 21 or 22, wherein the membrane has a water vapor transmission rate of at least 100 g / m2 / d.

24. A method of manufacturing the laminate according to any one of claims 1 to 20.

25. A waterproof product, the waterproof product comprising the laminate according to any one ofclaims 1 to 20.

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