What distinguishes Type 1 porous materials from Type 2 porous materials in terms of water exposure?

Type 1 porous materials are distinguished by their ability to absorb water and become saturated in a way that typically limits their restoration potential after exposure. When these materials are immersed in water, they tend to take in a significant amount, making it very challenging to dry them out effectively. This is due to the structure of Type 1 materials, which allows water to penetrate deeply and often leads to permanent damage.

In contrast, Type 2 porous materials, while also absorbing water, usually retain a more manageable level of moisture and can withstand cleaning processes more effectively. They are designed to be more resilient against contamination and can be restored after limited water exposure. However, they are not intended for prolonged immersion. The ability of Type 1 materials to absorb water and become non-restorable after such exposure is a key differentiating factor in managing water damage scenarios. Therefore, understanding the characteristics of Type 1 porous materials is crucial for professionals engaged in trauma and crime scene cleanup, as it directly affects their approach to restoration and remediation efforts.