Nonwovenkankaat

Nonwovenkankaat, often translated as nonwoven fabrics or nonwovens, are sheet or web structures made by bonding and/or interlocking fibres, yarns or filaments by mechanical entanglement, thermal bonding or chemical bonding. Unlike traditional woven or knitted fabrics, nonwovens do not rely on weaving or knitting to form a fabric. Instead, the fibres are arranged randomly or oriented in a specific direction and then bonded together.

The production process typically involves creating a web of fibres, which can be done through various methods such as air-laying, carding, or spunbonding. Once the web is formed, it is then subjected to a bonding process. Common bonding methods include thermal bonding (using heat to melt and fuse thermoplastic fibres), chemical bonding (using adhesives), or mechanical entanglement (using needles to create a felt-like structure).

Nonwoven fabrics possess a wide range of properties, making them versatile for numerous applications. Their properties can be tailored by selecting different fibre types, web formation techniques, and bonding methods. They can be strong, permeable, absorbent, flame-retardant, or soft, depending on the manufacturing process and materials used.

Applications for nonwoven fabrics are extensive and found in many industries. They are commonly used in hygiene products such as diapers and sanitary napkins, medical supplies like gowns, masks, and bandages, as well as in filtration, geotextiles for civil engineering, cleaning wipes, upholstery, and agricultural coverings. Their cost-effectiveness and performance characteristics contribute to their widespread adoption.