NONWOVENS SUSTAINABLE INNOVATIONS Nonwovens are a unique class of textile material formed from fibres that are bonded together through various means to form a coherent structure. Given their rapid industrial development and diverse markets, an understanding of nonwovens and their place within the growing focus on sustainability is becoming increasingly important.
N
onwoven materials are increasingly popular for both consumer and industrial applications, from hospital gowns to heavy-duty construction materials. Nonwoven fabrics are materials formed by mechanically, thermally, or chemically binding fibres or filaments. They are used in a wide array of industries and applications, either in combination with other materials or alone, such as apparel linings, automotive headliners and upholstery, carpeting, engineering fabrics, geotextiles, diapers, filters, wipes, hygiene products, insulation, roofing, healthcare and medical products. Nonwovens are designed for their specific application, ranging from thin, lightweight nonwovens to strong and durable nonwoven applica14 Industry Europe
tions. The combination of their specific characteristics through raw materials selection, the formation and bonding methods used and the applied finishing treatments, such as printing, embossing and laminating, all permit the delivery of high-performance products.
Smart and growing Today, nonwovens can be found in almost every aspect of daily life and society. They provide specific functions such as absorbency, liquid repellence, resilience, stretch, softness, strength, flame retardancy, washability, cushioning, thermal insulation, acoustic insulation, filtration, use as a bacterial barrier and sterility.
