The effect of exposure to xenon-arc radiation for 300 hours on the physical properties of two- and three-layer Gore-Tex laminates was investigated. The nylon face of both fab rics changed color. The Gore-Tex film within the three-layer com posite yellowed. The two-layer laminate could not be separated for examination. No significant change in the liquid water resist ance, water vapour diffusion, air permeability, or abrasion resist ance was observed. Their tensile strength was significantly re duced, as was the peel strength of the three-layer composite. Both irradiated and non-irradiated Gore-Tex composites were flam mable.
G. Tesoro, J. Amer. Oil Chem. Soc., 45, 351-353 (1968).
2.
A.R. Smith, "A General Review of Past Developments in Textile Finishing", p. 593-595. In H. Mark, N.S. Wooding and S.M. Atlas, Chemical Aftertreatment of Textiles, Wiley-Interscience , New York, 1971.
3.
A.J. Hall, Textile Finishing, 3rd Edition, American Elsevier Publishing Co., Inc., New York, 1966.
4.
D.J. Gohlke and J.C. Tanner, J. Coated Fabrics6(3), 28-38 (1976).
5.
National Standards of Canada, Textile Test Methods, Canadian Government Specifications Board, Ottawa, Ontario, 1977.
6.
Technical Manual of the American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists , 54, 1978.
