Breathable membranes in the form of fabrics and substitutes for fabrics, fabrics made of synthetic materials, fabrics made of mixed synthetic and natural fibres, both fire retardant and non-fire retardant, to be applied to fabrics made of nomex, kevlar, poly-cotton, cotton, nylon, polyester and non-woven fabrics by way of lamination, for use in the manufacture of outerwear, rainwear, fishermen's clothing, firemen's clothing, golf wear, ski wear, mountain climbing wear, high visibility clothing, electric arc resistant clothing, boots, shoes, socks, gloves, tarpaulins and tenting; laminated moisture vapour permeable (mvp) fabrics for use as a built-in barrier used in the manufacture of hospital wear that can be washed, sterilized and reused.