Abstract: A multilayer breathable moisture management and compressive device, having a laminate material that includes a thin, hydrophillic polyurethane foam coated on both surfaces with an adhesive. A stretchable elastomeric polymer layer is bonded to each of the adhesive surfaces. The polymer layers preferably are microfibers having a greater number of filaments on a skin engaging side than on an opposite side thereof. The resulting device draws moisture from the skin whereby moisture generated by the underlying skin is absorbed into the device and is thereafter conveyed into the polyurethane foam and then into the outer polymer layer such that the moisture is permitted to evaporate from the surface of the device. The device may be used as a sleeve for providing compression especially during exercise or may be used as a wound dressing or the like, providing moisture management and/or heat retention under compression.
Abstract: A multilayer breathable moisture management and compressive device, having a laminate material that includes a thin, hydrophillic polyurethane foam coated on both surfaces with an adhesive. A stretchable elastomeric polymer layer is bonded to each of the adhesive surfaces. The polymer layers preferably are microfibers having a greater number of filaments on a skin engaging side than on an opposite side thereof. The resulting device draws moisture from the skin whereby moisture generated by the underlying skin is absorbed into the device and is thereafter conveyed into the polyurethane foam and then into the outer polymer layer such that the moisture is permitted to evaporate from the surface of the device. The device may be used as a sleeve for providing compression especially during exercise or may be used as a wound dressing or the like, providing moisture management and/or heat retention under compression.
Abstract: A multilayer compression support sleeve construction. The laminate material includes a thin polyurethane film coated on both surfaces with an adhesive. A stretchable elastomeric polymer material is bonded to each of the adhesive surfaces. A substantial portion of one of the elastomeric polymer surfaces is coated with a discontinuous layer of silicone microdots. The microdots are applied by gravure roll printing to project a uniform distance above the elastomeric polymer surface to form small tacky dots. The laminate material is fabricated into a sleeve with the material oriented so that the microdot coated face is adjacent the skin of the wearer. Microdots may be applied in a predetermined pattern in order to impart enhanced compression to certain areas of the support sleeve. The resulting support sleeve retains its breathability while presenting a nonslip inner surface which prevents migration of the garment on the skin of the wearer during exercise.