Reflective tape, specifically that designed for clothing, is primarily composed of micro-glass beads embedded into a supportive base fabric.
The reflective property comes from tiny spheres, known as micro-glass beads. These beads are engineered to act like small lenses, collecting light and reflecting it directly back towards the original light source. This retroreflection is what makes the tape appear brightly illuminated in low-light conditions when a light source, such as car headlights, shines on it.
These reflective micro-glass beads are firmly fixed onto a foundation material, which is the base fabric. The choice of base fabric depends on the intended use of the tape and the type of garment it will be applied to. According to the provided information, the base fabric serves to hold the reflective elements and provide durability and flexibility to the tape.
Common materials used for the base fabric in reflective tape for clothing include:
- Polyester: A durable and common synthetic fabric.
- TC: Likely a blend of Polyester and Cotton, offering a mix of properties.
- FR cotton: Cotton treated to be flame-resistant, suitable for protective clothing.
- Aramid: High-strength synthetic fibers like Kevlar or Nomex, often used in safety apparel.
- Spandex fabric: An elastic material providing stretch and flexibility.
By embedding the reflective micro-glass beads into these different types of base fabric, manufacturers create reflective tapes suitable for various applications on clothing, enhancing the wearer's visibility and safety. The process ensures that light is reflected directly to the original light source and enhances the visibility of anyone who wears it.
