PU Coating | Definition

Pronunciation:

PU Coating is an acronym for Polyurethane Coating. 

polē-yur-a-thān cō-ting

 

Definition: 

Polyurethane coatings are the most ubiquitous coating found in outdoor textiles because they offer a balance of cost, ability to seal easily with seam tapes and durability. PU is normally added to the back of a given fabric to make it waterproof, and protect the coating. 

 

Pros of PU coatings include:

• Simple to seam tape
• Lower cost
• Extremely high waterproof possibility 
• Can be mixed with fire retardant chemicals
• Great for backpacks/bags

Glossary Category:

Fabric Finishing

 

Cons of PU Coating: 

• Reduces tear strength
• Will eventually wear out over years, specially if stored wet 
• The coating will breakdown over time from exposure and use 
• Ads weight to the fabric