What are the properties of Neoprene fabric?

Manufactured as a substitute for synthetic rubber, neoprene has a lot of properties.

• Impermeability: In comparison to other types of fibers, neoprene is not at all permeable. Water or any other elements are not able to pass through the fabric because there are no small holes as present in other fabrics which are woven. It acts as an insulation layer between the wearer and the outside environmental conditions. This makes neoprene fabric very uncomfortable to wear but suitable for athletes who swim in cold water.
• Elasticity: Neoprene is a substitute for natural rubber and has all the properties possessed by rubber. Though it is not breathable but neoprene fabric is very durable and elastic in nature which helps the divers to easily wear wetsuits.
• Formability: While most fabrics are woven, Neoprene is formed. Therefore, it can be pre-made into practically any shape and size, which saves work for fashion designers.
• Heat retention: In comparison to natural rubber, neoprene does not get affected by temperature up to 275 degrees Fahrenheit (F) and fire-resistant properties. It is suited for long-term applications done in high temperatures as it does not degrade its physical properties even at high temperatures. Instead of melting and stretching, neoprene gets hardened at high temperatures.
• Resistant to cold temperature: Fabrics made from neoprene provides excellent insulation against cold. Due to the presence of polychloroprene, neoprene can function at very low temperatures down up to -50 degrees Fahrenheit. But near to -50 degrees F, the experience starts to become non-functional and starts to become stiffer.
• Resistant to chemicals: Neoprene is chemically inert in nature and does not get affected by chemicals such as methyl alcohol, ethyl alcohol, alkalines, mineral acids, and some salt solutions. It has a lot of applications in belts due to its ability to withstand petroleum-based mixtures, such as solvents, oils, and greases
• Buoyancy: A layer of nitrogen bubbles gets trapped inside the fabric during the manufacturing process of neoprene fabric. These tiny nitrogen bubbles make the neoprene fabric stretchable and lightweight.