What is Tyvek?
Tyvek® is a highly versatile nonwoven fabric made from permanently bonded HDPE fibers. It is lightweight, tear-resistant, and waterproof, and is available in various designs and thicknesses. Tyvek® is available in a softstructure version and a paper-like hardstructure version. The different versions make it ideal for a wide range of outdoor projects such as tent pads, bivouac sacks, and bags. Tyvek® is very easy to process and recyclable.
Tyvek® consists of extremely fine polyethylene fibers (HDPE high-density polyethylene) that are bonded under heat to form a so-called "nonwoven" (unwoven textile). The result is a very dense, strong material that, depending on its construction, can be firm or soft, waterproof and breathable or air-permeable, depending on its construction, and is produced in various weights. Special treatments can be applied to optimize it for specific applications. It is therefore suitable for many areas, e.g., for the construction industry, for protective suits, as a paper substitute, as packaging material, for decoration, or even for outdoor use and for bags—which is, of course, the main purpose for which we have it in our range. The combination of very low weight, very high abrasion resistance, and tear resistance make it ideal as an additional tent groundsheet. As it is also very breathable despite being waterproof, the soft version is also ideal for bivouac bags or light windbreakers. The slightly heavier versions are ideal for bags, as covers for outdoor use, and much more.
Tyvek® is divided into two main groups:
- Tyvek® Softstructure is soft and textile-like to the touch, has a pleasant feel and does not rustle. The surface is slightly structured. It is suitable for clothing, bivouac bags, tent groundsheets and covers.
- Tyvek® Hardstructure is also known as paper Tyvek® because it is stronger, has a smooth surface, and rustles like paper, similar to Japanese paper. However, it is much lighter, moisture-resistant, and extremely tear-resistant. Hardstructure Tyvek® also softens over time.
Both variants are moisture-resistant and remain tear-resistant, strong and non-stretchable even when wet. It can be used at temperatures ranging from -74°C to +79°C, making it extremely cold-resistant. Tyvek® is resistant to many chemicals.
To achieve a softer feel, Tyvek® can be crumpled several times or washed in the washing machine.
Processing:
- Tyvek® can be easily cut with scissors or a cutter and does not fray.
- It can be sewn well, preferably with a polyester or polyester/cotton thread
- Tyvek® can be painted, printed, and glued. Cyanoacrylate adhesives are ideal for gluing, while contact adhesives (Pattex), dispersion adhesives (Ponal), or spray adhesives are suitable for larger areas. When gluing, please note that although the adhesive bond can be very strong, the Tyvek® fibers are only pressed together. Under heavy tensile loads, the adhesive bond may hold, but the fibers may be torn apart.
Our Tyvek® products are manufactured in Europe. As they are made from polyethylene fibers, they are fully recyclable when sorted by type.
Care of Tyvek®:
Tyvek® can be washed by hand with mild soap. Machine washing is also possible, preferably on a gentle cycle and at low temperatures. Do not tumble dry, bleach, or iron! May shrink slightly during the first wash.
Further properties and uses can be found in the individual items in the shop.
