一、Common fabric types for laboratory white coats
The choice of fabric for laboratory white coats needs to balance protection, comfort, and durability. The mainstream materials include the following three types:
1. Pure cotton: a natural fiber with good breathability and skin-friendliness, suitable for ordinary laboratory environments. However, cotton fabric is prone to moisture absorption, and its protective properties may be reduced when exposed to chemicals. Additionally, it does not possess flame retardant properties (ignition point is approximately 210°C, refer to "National Standard for Burning Behavior of Textiles GB/T 5455").

2. Polyester-cotton blend (65% polyester + 35% cotton): Combining the wear resistance of polyester with the comfort of cotton, it is wrinkle-resistant and easy to clean, making it a common choice in laboratories. The higher the proportion of polyester, the stronger the ability to resist liquid penetration (such as when experimental liquid is spilled).
3. 100% chemical fiber (such as polyester fiber): lightweight, quick-drying, and some can be specially treated to have anti-static or flame-retardant functions (such as anti-static fabric with carbon fiber added, with surface resistance ≤10^9Ω, in accordance with the "GB 12014-2019 Standard for Anti-static Clothing").
二、Application Scenarios of Special Functional Fabrics
1. Fire-resistant fabric: Used in experiments involving high temperatures or open flames (such as in metallurgical laboratories), it typically employs aramid or flame-retardant treated cotton (with a limiting oxygen index (LOI) of ≥28%, refer to "GB/T 17591-2006 Flame-Retardant Fabrics").
2. Chemical-resistant fabric: For use in strong acid and alkali environments, it employs polyethylene coating or Teflon material, which can resist partial chemical corrosion (such as the Chempro protective clothing series from 3M).
III. How to choose the right fabric for a white coat?
1. Assess experimental risks: For general teaching laboratories, polyester-cotton blended fabrics are optional; for chemical laboratories, anti-static and liquid penetration-resistant fabrics are recommended.
2. Pay attention to certification standards: domestic products must comply with the General Requirements for Protective Clothing (GB/T 20097-2006), while products for the European Union must pass the EN 14126 biological protection certification.
3. Comfort details: For summer, breathable mesh fabric (weight < 200g/m²) is an option, while for winter, an inner lining can be added for warmth.