MIL-PRF-20696 is a military performance specification for weather-resistant, waterproof cloth. MIL-PRF-20696 covers four types and four classes of cloth:
  • Type I: Moderate-strength, dimensionally stable cloth
  • Type II: High-strength, dimensionally stable cloth
  • Type III: Ultra high-strength, dimensionally stable cloth
  • Type IV: High-strength cloth
  • Class 1: Extreme cold-temperature flexibility.
  • Class 2: Cold-temperature flexibility, flame retardancy.
  • Class 3: Extreme cold-temperature flexibility, flame resistance.
  • Class 5: Extreme temperature resistance.
Per the specifications of MIL-PRF-20696, each batch must be examined visually, yard by yard, for defects, such as rips, tears, holes, scratches, and thin or translucent areas. Cloth must also be examined for wrinkles or bunches caused by uneven adhesion. Other anomalies to look for include stains, odors, and mildew. New batches must also be compared to a validated sample for color matching purposes. 

MIL-PRF-20696 dictates that samples undergo a full suite of testing, including, but not limited to:
  • Breaking and tear strength
  • Flame resistance and retardancy
  • Hydrostatic resistance
  • Resistance to extreme temperatures, mildew, oil, and aromatic hydrocarbons
  • Stiffness
Samples are also subjected to accelerating aging and conditioning, including controlled heat and humidity exposure. 

MIL-PRF-20696 encourages manufacturers to opt for recovered, recycled, and eco-friendly materials wherever possible. This comprehensive specification is a valuable tool for validating the quality and performance of cloth destined for intense applications, such as field environments and survival situations.
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