“Nonwoven fabrics” are described as: a flat structure made entirely or substantially out of fibres
arranged irregularly or in a specific pattern, that are connected to each another by being mechanically (tied) or chemically (glued) bonded together.
Nonwoven fabrics are measured in terms of their density/cm2-inch2.
They are made by depositing the loose fibres on a mat: depending on the speed and the yarn count, this process creates sheets that are joined to get the thickness required (the quantity of fibre per cm/inch).
The fibres are then compacted down and bound so they can be used.
There are three manufacturing methods:
MECHANICAL
using Stichbond or Maliwatt technology where needles are used to stitch the fibres together.
THERMAL
using Spunbond technology to melt the fibres by making them pass through a chamber at a high temperature or through hot cylinders with a smooth or raised dot surface.
CHEMICAL
using Spunlace technology to bind the fibres using chemicals.
Nonwovens are a low-cost support, as large volumes can be made at high speed, involving a limited number of processes making it ideal for applications in the following fields: HEALTHCARE AND PERSONAL HYGIENE (bedsheets, disposable hospital gowns, nappies); TRANSPORT (headrest covers, tablecloths); BUILDING INDUSTRY and GEOTEXTILES, MANUFACTURING (coating, bonding, printing); FLOORING and VISUAL COMMUNICATIONS (banners, race bibs and shopping bags).