The two main types of nonwoven fabric are NWF in polypropylene (PP) and NWF in Spunbond-Meltblown-Spunbond (SMS), depending on the process used to create them.
NWF in polypropylene.
Polypropylene is a fabric made of soft textured plastic fibers which are fused together using ultrasound and steam. There are different thicknesses of this material and due to its hygienic characteristics it is ideal in the health sector due to the high safety it provides to doctors, patients and the user in general, in addition to the cost-effectiveness it offers.
NWF in Spunbond-Meltblown-Spunbond (SMS).
This type of fabric consists of 3 layers and is also made from 100% polypropylene. Of these 3 layers, the two outer layers are Spunbond and the middle layer is Meltblown.
* Spunbond. To form a spunbond or Spunbond nonwoven fabric, polypropylene is stretched into a continuous filament, which is then placed in a web along a conveyor belt. With the addition of chemical, thermal or mechanical bonding processes, the fibers form a strong, durable fabric, which is often used in applications such as carpet backing or filters.
* Meltblown. Like a spunbond nonwoven, a meltblown nonwoven also uses polypropylene, but it is fed through a linear matrix to form long, thin fibers. These fibers are cooled by bursts of hot air, which are then forced through a collector mesh to form a fabric that creates a fine filter and is self-adhesive. Meltblown nonwovens are widely used in the production of medical masks, diapers and feminine hygiene products.
By making this 3-layer “sandwich”, you get an improved fabric as you combine and add the properties of both types of fabrics while reducing the disadvantages of each.
