Non-woven fabric (NWF): what is it?

Non-wovens, also known as non-woven fabrics, are made by mechanical, thermal, or chemical processes; however, they are not woven, and there is no need to turn fibers into yarn because these unconventional processes create an inherent friction (entanglement) between the fiber webs, which holds the fabric webs together.

Read More: non woven fabric supplier

Where did nonwoven textiles come from and how are they made?

Textile fibers are haphazardly deposited into a tray to create nonwoven fabric; they are then mechanically, chemically, or thermally bound to one another to form webs, mats, or sheets. One direction does not need to prevail. Nonwoven textiles are cheap, strong, mostly composed of polymers, and frequently used for plastics. They can be made up of one or more layers; trilaminated SMS textiles are one example.

Both synthetic and natural filaments, as well as fibers (viscose rayon and polyester are the most often used types), can be utilized to create these textiles.

Non-woven fabric types

Depending on the method used to make them, the two primary varieties of nonwoven fabric are NWF in polypropylene (PP) and NWF in spunbond-meltblown-spunbond (SMS).

NWF in a polymer.

Ultrasonic and steam are used to fuse together soft, textured plastic strands to create polypropylene cloth. This material comes in a variety of thicknesses, and because of its sanitary qualities and high level of safety for physicians, patients, and users overall—not to mention its affordability—it is perfect for the healthcare industry.

Spunbond-Meltblown-Spunbond (SMS) with NWF.

This kind of fabric is composed entirely of polypropylene and has three layers. Meltblown makes up the central layer of these three layers, while Spunbond makes up the outside two.

Spunbond. Polypropylene is stretched into a continuous filament and woven into a web along a conveyor belt to create spunbond or spunbond nonwoven fabric. The fibers combine with additional chemical, thermal, or mechanical bonding techniques to create a robust, long-lasting fabric that is frequently utilized in applications like filters or carpet backing.

Meltblown. Meltblown nonwovens are made of polypropylene, just as spunbond nonwovens, but they employ a linear matrix to create long, thin strands. Heat-induced bursts cool the fibers, which are subsequently pushed through a collector mesh to form a self-adhesive fabric that functions as a fine filter. Medical masks, diapers, and feminine hygiene products are among the many items made using meltblown nonwoven materials.

By combining and adding the qualities of both types of textiles while minimizing their drawbacks, you may create a superior fabric by creating this three-layer “sandwich.”

Fundamental attributes of NWF

They are quite useful because of the nonwoven fabric’s many different features. It is a fabric that is elastic, lightweight, breathable, soft, long-lasting, and loses a lot less fibers than other textiles. It is resistant to high temperatures, has a high absorption capacity, and repels liquids and water. It is also wrinkle-resistant, ironable, and dry-cleanable, making it simple to maintain.

Because of its excellent drapeability, ease of dying without color fading, and sewing ability, it becomes a desirable cloth in terms of fashion.

NWF uses and advantages

Nonwoven fabrics (NWF) are utilized in the fashion industry for linings and footwear components, but they are most commonly used in the manufacturing of industrial workwear, chemical defense suits, isolation, and sanitary protective clothing, including face masks. This is because NWF is an inflammable fabric that effectively blocks the passage of dust and bacteria and viruses.

Close-up of non-woven cloth. This kind of cloth is frequently utilized for hygienic purposes, such as surgical gowns and masks.

In summary, nonwoven fabric is a material with several uses that has gained popularity recently because of the Covid-19 health issue.

Our inventory has textiles that help lessen textile waste and the negative environmental effects of the fashion industry, if you’re searching for materials for your upcoming collection and want to create it in a sustainable and circular manner. Another option is to try selling your extra fabric—you never know who could be seeking for them!