Research and engineering qualification of materials used in modern airbag systems

The advancement of wearable airbag systems for motorcyclists necessitates materials that combine high mechanical performance with long-term durability under real-world environmental conditions. This thesis focuses on the evaluation of coated technical textiles—primarily polyamide 6.6 (PA66) and polyester (PET) fabrics—treated with polyurethane (PU) and silicone-based coatings. The study examines their structural, thermal, and barrier properties through a series of mechanical and environmental tests, including abrasion, flexion, hydrolysis, and artificial ageing under simulated sweat and dust exposure. Where existing standards were inadequate, custom testing protocols were developed to assess performance under conditions such as high humidity, folding stress, and contaminant accumulation. Comparative results highlight that silicone coatings offer greater resistance to hydrolytic and thermal degradation, while PU coatings, although lighter and initially more impermeable, require stabilized formulations to prevent adhesion loss and embrittlement. Folded configurations subjected to alkaline sweat and soil showed accelerated coating failure, emphasizing the importance of edge and crease performance. This work provides a comprehensive framework for material selection and testing in the context of wearable protective systems, with the aim of optimizing air-tightness, mechanical integrity, and user comfort across diverse use environments.