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how to identify 100% silicone fabric

EkoTina's silicone fabrics are expertly crafted using our proprietary 100% silicone formula and innovative construction. Renowned for their superior durability and versatility, our fabrics offer unmatched scratch resistance, UV resistance, chemical resistance, and hydrolysis resistance. With easy-to-clean properties, flame resistance, and sagging resistance, our fabric stand out as a high-performance solution. Notably, these exceptional characteristics are achieved inherently through our unique silicone composition, without relying on added chemicals. 

 

As the demand for sustainable and innovative alternatives to traditional vinyl and polyurethane fabrics grows, silicone fabrics are becoming a popular choice in the market. However, not all silicone fabrics are created equal.

 

To ensure you’re selecting true 100% silicone fabric like EkoTina®—with no added finishes or blends—it’s essential to understand the differences. Learn how to identify authentic SEkoTina® silicone fabrics and enjoy the unparalleled benefits of a product designed for durability and performance.


 

Scratch Test: Identify Genuine Silicone Fabrics

 

One of the simplest ways to determine whether your silicone fabric has a finish is by performing a scratch test. Use a key or your fingernail to scratch the surface. If a white residue appears or a scratch mark remains, it’s likely the fabric has a finish. EkoTina® silicone fabrics, on the other hand, are highly scratch-resistant and will not leave a white residue, ensuring their durability and authenticity. 

Finishes are often applied to fabrics for functional or performance-related reasons. In silicone fabrics, finishes are typically used to enhance durability (e.g., increasing double rub counts), improve tactile feel, or modify aesthetics. However, these finishes are susceptible to damage from abrasive cleaners, scratches (such as those from keys, buttons, or metal bag components), and general wear and tear. 

 

EkoTina® eliminates the need for additional finishes by utilizing a proprietary silicone formula that inherently delivers exceptional durability and performance. Our silicone fabrics maintain their integrity and premium qualities without relying on finishes, offering long-lasting resilience and superior functionality.


 

Burn Test: Evaluating Silicone Fabric Quality

 

A burn test is a reliable way to assess the quality and purity of silicone fabric. High-quality silicone burns cleanly, producing a light white smoke and no odor. If your silicone fabric emits black or dark-colored smoke, it may indicate:

 

  • The fabric is not 100% silicone.
  • The silicone is of poor quality.
  • The material is blended with other substances, often polyurethane, which is commonly added for certain properties but results in thinner, less durable silicone layers.
  • The silicone is defective or impure.

 

EkoTina® silicone fabrics are made from 100% high-quality silicone, ensuring clean burns, excellent durability, and superior performance compared to blended or low-quality alternatives.


Smell Test: Detecting VOCs in Fabrics

EkoTina® silicone fabrics are designed with ultra-low VOCs, ensuring they remain odorless and safe for use. Unlike high-grade silicone, traditional vinyl and polyurethane fabrics often emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs), responsible for unpleasant odors like the “new car smell” commonly noticed in cars, RVs, trailers, and boats. These emissions are particularly noticeable in small, enclosed spaces, and can pose health risks over time.

To test your fabric, place a piece inside a sealed plastic container for 24 hours. Afterward, open the container and check for any odors. If you detect a smell, it likely indicates the use of solvents in production or a non-100% silicone material.

 

EkoTina® fabrics undergo an advanced, solvent-free production process, making them odorless, healthier, and safer than vinyl or polyurethane alternatives. Choose Ekotina® for a premium, eco-friendly fabric experience.

 

​Understand more about silicone leather:

What is silicone leather? ​

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