Thermoplastic polyurethane tapes are semi-finished elastic materials used inside garments, stitched into the areas that take the most stress. They are one of the components that determines whether a garment holds its shape, and they are invisible in the finished piece.
Properties
- Elastic with high endurance. Stretch varies with the thickness of the tape, so a manufacturer can select the amount of give a particular seam needs.
- Stable across a wide temperature range. Elasticity is retained from 70 degrees Celsius down to minus 35, which covers laundering at one end and cold storage at the other.
- Light, soft, sleek and itch-free, which matters because these tapes sit against the skin in most applications.
- Invisible in wear, adding structure without showing through the outer fabric.
Environmental profile
TPU products are non-toxic, cause no pollution in production and decompose readily, which distinguishes them from several of the materials they replace in the same applications.
Where they are used
Inside garments
As inner support tapes stitched into stress areas: the waist, sleeves, neckline and shoulder. These are the points where a garment either holds its line or gradually distorts, and a tape at the seam is what prevents the second outcome.
As a manufacturing material
TPU is used to produce PVC shoe strips, waist belts, bra straps, silicone bras, T-shirts, sportswear and seat covers.
Bra straps are a good illustration of why the material suits the job. A strap needs consistent elasticity over thousands of cycles, comfort against the skin, and stability through repeated washing at temperature. TPU meets all three.
Certification
The products are certified to ITS international inspection standards and to the European OKO standard.
Frequently asked questions
What does TPU stand for?
Thermoplastic polyurethane.
Where are support tapes placed in a garment?
At the stress areas: waist, sleeves, neckline and shoulder.
What temperature range do they tolerate?
Elasticity is retained from 70 degrees Celsius down to minus 35.
This report dates from 2009. Manufacturer: Arya Polymer. See also basic elements of a bra.
