Why is the fabric in shower curtains less absorbent to water? What material is added?
Question:
Answers:
Usually, cloth liners are made from fibers that are in and of themselves less water absorbent (such as nylon) OR they are made from a single monolithic piece of non-absorbent material and textured to look like cloth (such as sheet vinyl).
As mentioned above, water proofing treatments can be also be added to absorbent fibers to help them repel water, either before the thread is woven into cloth (better results) or after the fact.
Vinyl
It isn't a material it is a waterproofing/water resistant chemical. You can find the same thing at camping and outdoor supply stores to water proof clothing and tents. The type for home use is added in the rinse water of the washing machine which coats the fabric or garment and then is heat set in the dryer. It is teflon based and is often a component in the scotchguarding used on upholstery for residential use as well.
More Related Questions & Answers...