Different nonwoven applications require different properties. These properties include material type, fiber size, packing density, softness, loft or thickness, basis weight, opacity and pore size. In addition to physical properties there is also chemical performance attributes such as, capillary action, strength, insulating properties, filtration efficiencies, etc. All of these properties govern the performance of a nonwoven for a particular application.
Liquid filtration or sieving is governed by pore size while air filtration systems rely heavily on larger fiber surface area with a high porosity to help reduce air resistance. Softness, loft, thickness and capillary action are more important properties when used diapers and hygiene products. Since not one particular nonwoven is suitable for all industries or applications there are many factors and properties that help determine the suitability of the nonwoven. However, mechanical properties, such as mechanical strength, are important factors for all application since a weak nonwoven is of no use.
Characteristics of nonwovens in terms of:
