Metal Foil

How is Metal foil made?

Metal foil fabric is any fabric that is coated with a layer that looks like metal foil.

Metal foil production

Metal foil fabrics are manufactured by applying the foil to a finished fabric. This is usually done by applying heat or glue until the two layers bond together. Foil fabrics are typically made using a stretch fabric such as jersey or spandex.

The foil coating is made in a similar way to metallic fibres with the metal composite being ‘metallised’ before being left to cool on the polyester or acetate film. The film is then applied to the fabric. The metal that is typically used in this process is aluminium as it is lightweight and can be used in a very thin layer and it doesn’t tarnish.

Metal foil properties

• Electric Conductor
• Good thermal conductor
• Reflective
• Fire-retardant
• Shiny surface, adds decoration to garments
• Stretchy
• Flexible
• Lightweight
• Comfortable to wear
• Versatile
• Clear layer means that it is not affected by water

End uses of Metal foil

• Insulating
• Packaging
• Garment
• Decoration
• Fire-retardant fabrics
• Stage props
• Costumes
• Dancewear
• Eveningwear