Why are GORE-TEX type materials are waterproof and yet breathable?

The material is made up from nylon laminated with a PTFE / polyurethane membrane. The membrane is too fragile on its own hence why it is combined with the nylon. The holes in membrane are too small for water to pass through but are big enough for water vapour to pass through.

LB
Answered by Lily B. Chemistry tutor

4478 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

If 9g of alumnium reacts with 35.5g of chlorine, what is the empirical formula of the compound formed?


Why can graphite conduct electricity but diamond can’t even though they are both purely made of carbon?


What are ionic bonds?


Explain what happens to magnesium and oxygen atoms when they react to form Magnesium oxide.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning