Investigation of mechanical and physical properties of spunlaced nonwoven fabrics containing bicomponent fibers

In the scope of this thesis, unlike polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and viscose fiber (CV) blends used in traditional spunlaced nonwoven fabrics, polyethylene/polypropylene (PE/PP) and polyethylene/polyethylene terephthalate (PE/PET) sheath/core type bicomponent fibers, polypropylene, cotton, and bamboo fibers in addition to PET and CV were used in different blend ratios to obtain novel spunlaced nonwoven fabrics. Physical, mechanical, comfort, and liquid transfer properties of the novel spunlaced nonwoven samples were analyzed. Trials at different temperatures (90°C, 110°C, and 130°C) have been carried out to optimize the spunlaced nonwoven processing temperature. It has been determined that the sheath component of bicomponent fibers melted and formed bonding upon cooling. As the processing temperature increases the bonding points increase. According to the results obtained, tensile strength, bending rigidity, and wet-back values increased and air permeability, liquid strike through time, and the liquid absorption capacity values decreased with the increase in processing temperature. In addition, it has been determined that the type and ratios of components in bicomponent fibers have a serious effect on the spunlaced nonwoven fabric properties, especially tensile strength, liquid strike through time, and wet-back. The important outcome of this study is a potential novel spunlaced nonwoven product that can be used in acquisition distribution layer (ADL) of hygiene products such as sanitary napkins, diapers, and sweat pads.