---
type: "fabric"
name: "Tyvek"
slug: "tyvek"
fabric_family: "nonwoven"
construction: "nonwoven(spunbond)"
subtype: "nonwoven(spunbond)"
typical_fibers:
  - "Polyethylene"
weight_gsm: "40–100 g/m²"
price_tier: 2
url: "https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/tyvek"
updated: "2025-09-08T02:33:06.772456+00:00"
---

# Tyvek

Tyvek is a durable, lightweight, and water-resistant nonwoven fabric made from high-density polyethylene fibers, commonly used in protective clothing and packaging.

- **Fabric Family**: Nonwoven
- **Construction**: Nonwoven Spunbond
- **Subtype**: nonwoven(spunbond)
- **Typical Fibers**: Polyethylene
- **Weight**: 40–100 g/m²
- **Thickness**: 0.2–0.5 mm
- **Typical Width**: 150 cm
- **Price Tier**: $$ (2 of 5)

## About Tyvek

Tyvek is a spunbond nonwoven fabric characterized by its unique construction of continuous filaments of high-density polyethylene. This fabric is known for its strength, durability, and resistance to water and chemicals, making it ideal for a variety of applications including protective apparel, building wraps, and medical packaging. Its breathable yet water-resistant properties allow for moisture vapor transmission while preventing liquid penetration, making it suitable for outdoor and industrial uses.

## Performance Properties

- **Air Permeability**: 10 CFM
- **Hydrostatic Head**: 2000 mm
- **Spray Rating**: 80
- **Evaporative Resistance (Ret)**: 0.5
- **Thermal Resistance (Rct)**: 0.1
- **UPF Rating**: 50

## Appearance & Hand

- **Luster**: Matte
- **Opacity**: Opaque
- **Surface Texture**: smooth
- **Hand & Drape**: Balanced

## Performance Features

- Waterproof
- Breathable
- Tear Resistant
- Lightweight
- Chemical Resistant

## Common Finishes

- UV Resistant
- Antimicrobial Treatment
- Water Repellent Coating

## Common Applications

- Protective Clothing
- Building Wraps
- Medical Packaging
- Envelopes
- Geotextiles

## Common Uses in Detail

### Protective Apparel

Its resistance to water, chemicals, and particulates makes it ideal for disposable hazmat suits, coveralls, and cleanroom garments. Lightweight yet tear-resistant, it shields workers in industrial, pharmaceutical, and emergency response environments without sacrificing mobility or breathability.

### Building & Construction Wraps

Widely used as a housewrap beneath exterior cladding, it blocks wind and moisture infiltration while allowing water vapor to escape, helping regulate indoor humidity. Its durability during installation and resistance to tearing make it a trusted choice for contractors worldwide.

### Medical & Postal Packaging

Sterilization pouches, medical supply envelopes, and durable mailing envelopes rely on its puncture resistance and moisture barrier properties. It withstands sterilization processes without degrading, keeping contents sterile and protected, while its lightweight nature reduces shipping costs significantly.

## Care Instructions

Tyvek should not be washed or dry cleaned. It can be wiped clean with a damp cloth. Do not use bleach or heat.

- Do Not Wash
- Do Not Bleach
- Do Not Tumble Dry
- Iron No Heat

## Additional Information

Tyvek is often used in construction for its weather-resistant properties and is also popular in the fashion industry for avant-garde designs and eco-friendly garments.

- **Regional Names**: Tyvek (USA), DuPont Tyvek (global)
- **Sourcing Regions**: USA, China, Europe
- **Testing Standards**: ASTM D5034 (Tear Strength), ASTM D1974 (Packaging), AATCC 127 (Water Resistance), AATCC 118 (Water Repellency)

## Fibers in This Fabric

- Polyethylene

## Similar Fabrics

- [Craft Felt](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/craft-felt.md) — Nonwoven
- [Meltblown Nonwoven](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/meltblown-nonwoven.md) — Nonwoven
- [Needle-Punched Felt](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/needle-punched-felt.md) — Nonwoven
- [SMMS Nonwoven](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/smms-nonwoven.md) — Nonwoven
- [SMS Nonwoven](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/sms-nonwoven.md) — Nonwoven

---
*Source: [Fabric Atlas](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/tyvek) — HTML version of this page.*