Artificial leather is one of the many names for artificial
or synthetic leather. These names are often used to describes specific end uses
for synthetic leather products such as imitation leather (upholstery for sofas,
chairs and headboards), leatherette (car upholstery, clothing), and koshin
(consumer resources). There are two main types of construction made of
artificial or synthetic leather: polyurethane ("PU") and polyvinyl
chloride (PVC - "Vinyl"). bacobolts
Vinyl synthetic leather has stood produced in the United
States since the 1940s, originally for goods such as footwear, car interiors,
and upholstery. In the late 1950s, DuPont and other chemical companies began
developing polyurethane products.
Both polyurethane and vinyl synthetic leather are used in
apparel, upholstery and product coatings, but each is better suited for certain
applications than others. Polyurethane fabric is softer, more flexible and
breathable, making it more widely used for heavy-duty garments such as clothing
and upholstery (surfaces that directly contact the skin). Vinyl is not as
breathable as polyurethane, but it is usually ideal for products that need to
repel moisture, such as book bindings or electronic device cases.
Types of artificial leather
Vinyl upholstery Vinyl
the upholstery is made of two separate synthetic materials.
The upholstery fibers are made from durable polyester fibers. Then the fibers
are covered with vinyl made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and plasticizers
(phthalic acid). This vinyl melts onto the surface of the fibers, sealing them
tightly for a virtually waterproof surface that remains flexible and durable.
Vinyl upholstery is easy to clean and maintain. This makes
it ideal for situations where cleanliness is a priority, such as hospitals and
restaurants. Vinyl also requires little maintenance or conditioning. However,
vinyl can become very hot if left in the sun. The skin will stick to the
surface, creating an uncomfortable fit. Vinyl can also crack with prolonged
use.
Polyurethane upholstery
Polyurethane is made by coating a support fabric such as
cotton, polyester, or shredded leather with a flexible polymer and
post-processing to make it look more like animal skin. PU upholstery is the
most realistic imitation of real leather in terms of hands, surface feel and
overall appearance. When stitched, folded or glued, "ripped" or
wrinkled like real leather. Since polyurethane upholstery does not use
plasticizers, it does not crack or flake and remains soft and flexible as long
as it remains on the furniture. They are also easier to decorate with patterns.
Polyurethane is considered to be more environmentally friendly than vinyl
because it does not create dioxins. Polyurethane resins are made from a softer
polymer and therefore do not require additional plasticizers.
Benefits of artificial leather
Artificial leather has a number of advantages over natural
leather. These include the following:
Inexpensive - Artificial leather is usually much cheaper
than genuine leather.
Durability - Artificial leather is very tough and will last
for a long time. It can resist scratches and rips that can ruin real leather.
It doesn't crack or flake like leather. It does not fade easily in ultraviolet
(UV) light and is stain resistant.
Low maintenance - PU leather materials can be cleaned with a
cloth and warm water. Unlike genuine leather, it does not retain dampness, so
artificial leather products will not be disfigured or cracked. Some of the
newer high quality leatherette can remove ink, liquid and food stains with only
a dry cloth.
Realistic Quality - The faux leather has been modified and
enhanced with variations in texture, color and texture to reflect the look with
realistic leather quality.
Uniform look - the leatherette will give a consistent look
as all products are made from the same material.
Fashion - PU leather can also be printed, providing a wide
variety of textures and patterns. In addition, since eco-leather is a synthetic
material, it can be dyed any color of the rainbow. This approach to fashion
leaves a lot of freedom in the design of residential or commercial interiors.
Easy to work - faux leather is easier to cut and sew than
genuine leather. In addition, needle marks are often less visible and the
threads blend more smoothly into the imitation leather fabric.
Disadvantages of artificial leather
Artificial leather has certain disadvantages compared to
natural leather. Synthetic leather doesn't stretch, breathe or wear out like
leather. The artificial leather is very durable; however, over time, it does
not acquire the same sheen and patina as leather.
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