Tyvek® 1056D vs. 1073D: Which DuPont Substrate Is Right for Your Application?
When selecting high-performance, non-woven materials from DuPont's hard-structure lineup, Tyvek® 1056D and Tyvek® 1073D are two of the most popular options available. Both feature a smooth, paper-like finish, excellent opacity, and built-in antistatic and corona surface treatments.
However, they differ significantly in weight, structural strength, and burst resistance. Choosing the right grade depends on whether your priority is lightweight versatility or heavy-duty protection.
Technical Specifications: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Technical Property | Test Method | Tyvek® 1056D | Tyvek® 1073D | Performance Difference |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basis Weight | DIN EN ISO 536 | 55.0 g/m² (1.62 oz/yd²) | 75.0 g/m² (2.21 oz/yd²) | 1073D is ~ 36.4% heavier. |
| Thickness | DIN EN ISO 534 | 175 µm (6.9 mils) | 210 µm (7.9 mils) | 1073D is 20% thicker. |
| Tensile Strength (MD) | DIN EN ISO 1924-2 | 120 N (26.98 lbf) | 200 N (44.96 lbf) | 1073D is ~ 66.7% stronger in MD. |
| Tensile Strength (CD) | DIN EN ISO 1924-2 | 115 N (25.85 lbf) | 215 N (48.33 lbf) | 1073D is ~ 87% stronger in CD. |
| Mullenburst Strength | ISO 2758 | 680 kPa (98.63 psi) | 1200 kPa (174.0 psi) | 1073D offers ~ 76.5% higher burst strength. |
| Delamination | ASTM D2724 | 1.0 N (0.225 lbf) | 1.75 N (0.393 lbf) | 1073D has stronger internal bonding. |
| Elmendorf Tear (MD/CD) | DIN EN 21974 | 8.1 N / 7.2 N (1.91 / 1.62 lbf) | 5.3 N / 5.3 N (1.19 / 1.19 lbf) | 1056D has higher initial tear propagation resistance. |
| Opacity | ISO 2471 | 97.8% | 96.5% | Both provide exceptionally high opacity. |
Key Differences Explained
1. Strength vs. Weight
The fundamental difference between these two substrates comes down to material density and weight.
Tyvek® 1056D is engineered as a lightweight material (55.0 g/m²). It saves significant weight while maintaining a thin profile (175 µm).
Tyvek® 1073D uses a higher fiber volume (75.0 g/m²), making it thicker (210 µm) and significantly stronger under pull forces (200 N MD / 215 N CD).
2. Burst and Puncture Resistance
If your application subject the substrate to pressure spikes or sharp force, Mullenburst resistance is a critical metric. 1073D delivers 1200 kPa (174 psi) compared to 1056D's 680 kPa (98.63 psi). This makes 1073D substantially more resistant to punctures under stress.
3. Delamination and Surface Integrity
Internal fiber bonding (Delamination) determines how well the material resists peeling apart. 1073D scores 1.75 N, whereas 1056D measures 1.0 N. Higher delamination strength means 1073D handles converting, folding, and sealing with less risk of fiber detachment.
4. Tear Resistance Trade-off
Interestingly, 1056D exhibits higher Elmendorf Tear resistance (8.1 N MD) than 1073D (5.3 N MD). Because 1056D has lower internal bonding density, its fibers can shift slightly under a tear force to absorb energy before tearing.
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose Tyvek® 1056D if:
Weight savings are paramount: Ideal for ultralight outdoor gear (such as ultralight groundsheet footprint designs), lightweight tags, and portable banners.
High opacity is required on a thin sheet: Achieves an impressive 97.8% opacity at just 175 µm thickness.
You need better tear propagation absorption: Performs exceptionally well against edge-tear initiation.
Choose Tyvek® 1073D if:
Heavy-Duty Packaging & Industrial Use: Perfect for packaging, tote,industrial pouches, and high-stress covers that require maximum integrity.
Maximum Burst Resistance: Ideal when the material needs to resist sharp points, heavy ground rocks, or sudden force spikes (1200 kPa Mullenburst).
High Tensile Demands: Recommended for applications where the sheet will be pulled or stretched under high tension.