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The orientation of fibers or filaments in nonwovens is critical in determining their mechanical characteristics. Image processing techniques, prized for their minimal human intervention and rapid processing speed, are widely utilized in nonwoven fiber orientation measurement. However, these techniques often face substantial challenges, such as low accuracy in corner detection, errors in fiber segmentation, and inefficiencies in fiber orientation calculation. Addressing these concerns, this study introduces a novel, enhanced method accompanied by two innovative optimization algorithms to enhance accuracy. The first innovation involves the development of a newly developed fiber corner detection algorithm, dubbed the T-detector, specifically tailored for the unique characteristics of fiber images, enabling efficient corner point detection and removal. Subsequently, we introduce and employ a fiber length restriction algorithm to further segment the processed longer fibers into the remaining fiber fragments and utilize a skeleton projection algorithm to calculate the fiber orientation. These algorithms overcome the existing technology's inherent shortcomings, thereby heightening measurement accuracy. The results illustrate an improvement in measurement precision over other orientation distribution measurement algorithms, with the fiber information retention (covering ratio) reaching an impressive 95%. Our proposed method not only calculates fiber orientation distribution in nonwovens with remarkable accuracy and efficiency, but its innovative approach also stands to provide a theoretical foundation for the design of three-dimensional filtering models with specific fiber orientation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The production of nanofibers has become a significant area of research due to their unique properties and diverse applications in various fields, such as biomedicine, textiles, energy, and environmental science. Electrospinning, a versatile and scalable technique, has gained considerable attention for its ability to fabricate nanofibers with tailored properties. Among the wide array of conductive polymers, poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) has emerged as a promising material due to its exceptional conductivity, environmental stability, and ease of synthesis. The electrospinning of PEDOT-based nanofibers offers tunable electrical and optical properties, making them suitable for applications in organic electronics, energy storage, biomedicine, and wearable technology. This review, with its comprehensive exploration of the fabrication, properties, and applications of PEDOT nanofibers produced via electrospinning, provides a wealth of knowledge and insights into leveraging the full potential of PEDOT nanofibers in next-generation electronic and functional devices by examining recent advancements in the synthesis, functionalization, and post-treatment methods of PEDOT nanofibers. Furthermore, the review identifies current challenges, future directions, and potential strategies to address scalability, reproducibility, stability, and integration into practical devices, offering a comprehensive resource on conductive nanofibers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This publication underscores the vital role of bees, particularly their contribution to products like honey, pollen, and propolis, which offer significant health benefits. Notably, 79% of the world's food supply relies on bees; thus, their declining numbers pose a threat to pollination and food security. The study explores an ecological thermal insulation for hives using animal biomass and a monitoring system to detect anomalies in bee habitats early. This approach aims to protect bee populations and enhance global food security through improved data-driven practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nonwoven membranes are highly engineered fibrous materials that can be manufactured on a large scale from a wide range of different polymers, and their surfaces can be modified using a large variety of different chemistries and ligands. The fiber diameters, surface areas, pore sizes, total porosities, and thicknesses of the nonwoven mats can be carefully controlled, providing many opportunities for creative approaches for the development of novel membranes with unique properties to meet the needs of the future of downstream processing. Fibrous membranes are already finding use in ultrafiltration, microfiltration, depth filtration, and, more recently, in membrane chromatography for product capture and impurity removal. This article summarizes the various methods of manufacturing nonwoven fabrics, and the many methods available for the modification of the fiber surfaces. It also reviews recent studies focused on the use of nonwoven fabric devices in membrane chromatography and provides some perspectives on the challenges that need to be overcome to increase binding capacities, decrease residence times, and reduce pressure drops so that eventually they can replace resin column chromatography in downstream process operations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The performance of baby diapers is highly related to the occurrence of diaper rash. However, a comprehensive evaluation of baby diapers on the market is unavailable. Herein, we systematically investigated the performance of the six most-sold baby diapers on the market. We disassembled the selected diapers and investigated the structure and properties of the main components, including the top sheet, acquisition sheet, absorbent core, and back sheet. Then the urine absorption capability, excrement spreading capability, run-off, and wetback of the diapers were investigated using urine and loose stool to reflect the functions of diapers in practical usage. Our results indicated that the performance of baby diapers is highly dependent on the structure and properties of each diaper component. Specifically, excrement run-off and wetback were highly related to excrement absorption speed and excrement spreading properties, respectively, which depend on the complex interactions among the top sheet, acquisition sheet, and absorbent core. In particular, designing the top sheet with a three-dimensional convex–concave structure or large holes was beneficial to fast excrement penetration. Meanwhile, employing an acquisition sheet could improve the excrement spreading properties. In addition, an absorbent core with a high content of super absorbent polymer and an absorption channel also contributed to a better excrement absorption property. Notably, Pampers and Moony diapers exhibited relatively low urine wetback. Bobdog and Babycare diapers showed 0 g urine run-off. Besides, Huggies, and Moony diapers were relatively soft, which could provide a better contact feeling during usage. Furthermore, Beaba diapers exhibited the best air permeability of 42.511 mm s−1 due to the existence of more breathable holes. Our study may provide scientific inspiration for researchers and enterprises to develop next-generation high-performance baby diapers and serve as a guideline for consumers to choose the right baby diapers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nonwoven media used as electret air filters are often embedded with charges to improve particle capture efficiency. These charged filters are invariably exposed to low surface tension fluids such as oils and alcohols leading to charge loss. In this study, filtration media are endowed with charge protection through increased surface repellency using melt additives that can migrate to the surface during processing. Nonwovens containing fluorochemical melt additives are produced, and examined to determine the relationship between surface chemistry, isopropyl alcohol (IPA) repellency, resultant charge retention, and filtration characteristics. Surface fluorine/carbon (F/C) ratios of ≈0.2 are sufficient to protect filtration performance from vapor discharging methods. Samples with bulk additive loadings of 1.2% or higher are found to achieve the necessary repellency to resist discharging independent of the migration state of the sample, while samples loaded at the 0.6% level required sufficient migration to achieve the requisite F/C ratio of 0.2 in order to be protected. Samples that achieved the necessary surface chemistry to provide significant IPA repellency retained > 80% of electret charge and corresponding filtration performance. These results have special significance in the design of filtration media relevant in global healthcare and other industrial settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the results of the study investigating the dependence of the density of silica nonwoven fibrous materials on the value of specific load. Nonwoven fibrous materials, in the form of mats, are extensively used across various industries. Among fiber materials, heat-insulating high-temperature silica materials hold a special place. The fibrous canvases are composed of silica fibers (KV-11) with a diameter of 7.5 microns and a length of 60 mm. Needle-punched mats are produced from a portion of these canvases using a needle-punching machine. Canvases produced by the mechanical method exhibit pronounced orientation of fibers. Consequently, samples of mats made from canvases with both longitudinal and longitudinal-transverse fiber orientations were prepared for experiments. The aim of the work is to investigate the dependence of the change in density of silica nonwoven fiber mats on the specific load. The experimental methodology was to determine the thickness of samples when loaded with weights. Needle-punched mats exhibit more stable parameters under compressive loads compared to mats made from mechanically formed canvases. Low initial density of needle-punched mats can lead to additional costs to achieve the specified values of heat shield density. The density of heat shields should be range between 100–200 kg/m3. From the available on the market fiber materials with the above parameters for the thermal screen needle-punching mats Supersilica with density ranging from 120 to 170 kg/m3 were selected. The conducted studies revealed that the correlation coefficient between specific load and thickness change, as a percentage of the initial thickness of the specimens, is higher for the specimens made from Supersilika mats. Therefore, the use of Supersilika needle-punched mats in thermal shields with double-sided silica fabric lining is more preferable.

ABSTRACTThe main purpose of the article is to present the potential use of hemp fibers as reinforcement in composites, but from a design perspective. The authors ask whether sustainable nonwovens, produced based on natural fibers, have the potential as a material for designers and artists and not only as a technical textile. Technical production of nonwovens like carding, punching and laser cutting was used to achieve not just functional, but also aesthetic quality of the samples. The possibilities of utilizing natural materials for design endeavors were presented. The production process of these items was described, along with the main design concept. Research was carried out through a series of interdisciplinary activities, using the knowledge and tools typical for textile and materials engineering, as well as the methodology and strategies derived from the fields of visual art and design. It has been shown that during the development of a new sustainable material significant attention should be paid to design aspects, so it shows its full potential, as not just being eco-friendly, but also functional and aesthetic. While technical hemp and PLA composites have been produced and studied before, the design aspect is unique in the current study.

Polylactic acid (PLA) fabric is a plant-based fibrous functional material that is considered promising for application in electronic device packaging due to its unique sustainability and safety characteristics. However, the hydrophobic properties of PLA fabric with a single structure hinder its liquid asymmetric wettability. In this work, bilayer polylactic acid@secondary alkyl sulfonate/cellulose (PLA@SAS/CE) fabrics were prepared with wettability and pore size gradients across the cross direction. A carding process was used to generate the cellulose layer, whereas a melt blowing process was used for preparing the PLA@SAS microfiber layer. The fabrics were then produced using a thermal composite process. The pore sizes of the obtained PLA@SAS microfiber layer could be tuned by air pressure, whereas the surface wetting capacity could be adjusted by altering the SAS mass concentration. By optimizing the wettability and pore size gradients, the resulting PLA@SAS/CE fabrics exhibited a high one-way transport capacity of 577.7 and a favorable liquid absorption rate of 54.0 mg/s, which demonstrated excellent asymmetric wettability. Moreover, the prepared PLA@SAS/CE fabric samples exhibited a sizeable breaking strength, excellent flexibility, and good printability, while demonstrated their potential in eco-friendly electronic device packaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The controlled manufacturing of semiconductor photocatalysts is crucial to their development for drinking water treatment. In this study, TiO2-coated meltblown nonwoven fabrics prepared via Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) are applied for the inactivation of Escherichia coli (E. coli). It is observed that in the presence of an ultraviolet light-emitting diode (UV-LED) light source (255 nm), 1.35 log E. coli inactivation is achieved. However, exposure to catalyst-coated fabrics in addition to the light source resulted in >4 log E. coli inactivation, suggesting a much higher rate of hydroxyl radical formation on the surface, leading to cell death. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Analysis of the basis weight for random fibrous networks is important to understand their microstructure, properties and performance. Two-dimensional microscopical images show in-plane fibers without giving any information on their distribution in three dimensions. This research introduces a fully parametric algorithm for computing the local basis weight of random fibrous networks using three-dimensional images because out-of-plane fiber orientation is important, especially for high-density or thick networks. Voxel models of real nonwoven webs were generated by an X-ray micro-computed tomography system. The developed algorithm could accurately estimate a local basis weight value for random fibrous networks produced with various manufacturing parameters. Numerical results computed with the developed method were compared with those obtained with a physical weight measurement technique. The algorithm was tested and validated for various nonwoven fabrics with different densities. It was observed that the developed method can be used to examine and/or compare the basis weight of a wide range of random fibrous networks. In addition, it can be used to predict the basis weight for fabrics, especially in a new product development process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To further optimize the protective efficacy and wearing comfort of medical protective materials, hydrophobic breathable composite nonwovens have been meticulously engineered. The composite nonwovens, composed of SS surface layer, SMMS middle layer, and SS lining layer, undergoes polymer modification using a ternary antistatic agent and nano silicon dioxide (Si02), while the backing material underwent modification treatment with polyethylene glycol (PEG), followed by hot-rolling composite to yield samples of waterproof and breathable composite nonwovens. The mechanical properties, moisture comfort performance and medical protective characteristics of the samples were tested. The results show that the fracture strength of the samples is 143. 18 N in longitudinal direction and 68. 54 N in transverse direction, and the bursting strength is 1 126. 75 kPa, which is higher than the GB 19082--2009 standard. The hydrostatic pressure of the sample is 22. 82 kPa, the filtration efficiency is 99. 82%, the permeability of the sample is 6. 89 mm/s, the permeability of the water vapor is 4 637 g/(m2 • d), with both high protective characteristics and wet comfort, far superior to the composite breathable film and other similar medical protection products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The production of nanofibers has become a significant area of research due to their unique properties and diverse applications in various fields, such as biomedicine, textiles, energy, and environmental science. Electrospinning, a versatile and scalable technique, has gained considerable attention for its ability to fabricate nanofibers with tailored properties. Among the wide array of conductive polymers, poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) has emerged as a promising material due to its exceptional conductivity, environmental stability, and ease of synthesis. The electrospinning of PEDOT-based nanofibers offers tunable electrical and optical properties, making them suitable for applications in organic electronics, energy storage, biomedicine, and wearable technology. This review, with its comprehensive exploration of the fabrication, properties, and applications of PEDOT nanofibers produced via electrospinning, provides a wealth of knowledge and insights into leveraging the full potential of PEDOT nanofibers in next-generation electronic and functional devices by examining recent advancements in the synthesis, functionalization, and post-treatment methods of PEDOT nanofibers. Furthermore, the review identifies current challenges, future directions, and potential strategies to address scalability, reproducibility, stability, and integration into practical devices, offering a comprehensive resource on conductive nanofibers.

A method for obtaining nonwoven precursors of carbon materials based on natural and viscose fibers was developed. Bast (flax and hemp) fibers were used as sources of natural fibers which were previously processed in order to remove impurities and enrich with the alpha fraction of cellulose. The structure, morphology, and chemical composition of natural and viscose fibers were studied by X-ray, SEM, and IR spectroscopy. The mechanical characteristics of the fibers were determined. The results of studies of the thermal behavior of mixed materials based on viscose, flax, and hemp fibers at temperatures up to 1000 °C were presented. The introduction of a small fraction of natural fibers into viscose (up to 30%) leads to a sharp decrease in the carbon yield. But the further increasing of the proportion of the natural fibers increases the carbon yield that means that depending on proportion of artificial and natural fibers the later could play a role of either promoter or inhibitor of pyrolysis process. The obtained dependence of the carbon residue on the composition of the neat fibers was used to identify optimal formulations for nonwovens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Bioactive non-woven dressings can be prepared by dip coating of non-woven cloth in solutions containing bioactive polyethylene bearing pendant arms of polyethylene (PE5000) and modified PEG3400-biomolecules including linear Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD), collagen fragment (Gly-Pro-Hyp)3, laminin-derived peptide (AGQWHRVSVRWGC) (A5G81) and hyaluronic acid (HA). Obtainment of ultimate coating concentration for each type of non-woven cloth is achieved such that the technically demanding bioactive polyethylene does not delaminate from the non-woven cloth itself but is of sufficient quantity for bioactivity. Scanning electron microscopy images show uniform polyethylene deposition on the non-woven cloth. Good water absorption and permeability allow the use of such bioactive polyethylene coated non-woven cloth as wound dressings. Material biocompatibility is demonstrated using in vitro human skin fibroblast assays. In vivo porcine full thickness excisional wound model shows PE5000-coated non-woven cloth can remarkably accelerate skin regeneration to close the wounds faster than clinical gold standard dressing. Thus, the results presented here may provide a promising guide for bioactive polyethylene-modified non-woven materials for wound dressing applications.

Biomaterials containing citric acid as a building unit show potential for use as blood vessel and skin tissue substitutes. The success in commercializing implants containing a polymer matrix of poly(1,8-octanediol citrate) provides a rationale for exploring polycitrates based on other diols. Changing the aliphatic chain length of the diol allows functional design strategies to control the implant’s mechanical properties, degradation profile and surface energy. In the present work, poly(1,2-ethanediol citrate) was synthesized and used as an additive to polylactide in the electrospinning process. It was established that the content of polycitrate greatly influences the nonwovens’ properties: an equal mass ratio of polymers resulted in the best morphology. The obtained nonwovens were characterized by surface hydrophilicity, tensile strength, and thermal properties. L929 cell cultures were carried out on their surface. The materials were found to be non-cytotoxic and the degree of porosity was suitable for cell colonization. On the basis of the most important parameters for assessing the condition of cultured cells (cell density and viability, cell metabolic activity and lactate dehydrogenase activity), the potential of PLLA + PECit nonwovens for application in tissue engineering was established.

Electrospun nonwovens of biopolymers are gaining popularity in filtration, coatings, encapsulation, and packaging materials. However, their applications are hindered by limited stability, particularly when loaded with lipids. This research aimed to apply a multiscale approach to gain insights into deteriorative processes, e.g., oxidation, limiting the shelf life of these complex materials, using corn oil-loaded electrospun zein nonwovens as a model system. Oil-doped zein electrospun nonwovens were stored in the dark at 23 °C and 33% relative humidity for 28 days and tested at selected intervals to monitor their morphology and mechanical properties. Lipid oxidation was assessed using the thiobarbituric acid reactive species (TBARS) assay. The photophysical properties of intrinsic, i.e., tyrosine (Tyr), and extrinsic, i.e., boron-dipyrromethene undecanoic acid 581/591 (BODIPY C11), lumiphores were also monitored to evaluate changes in local molecular rigidity, and oxidation, respectively. The protein secondary structure was determined with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis of the oil-loaded electrospun nonwovens revealed that the diameter of the ribbon-like fiber significantly decreased during storage from 701 ± 23 nm to 620 ± 44 nm. Breakage of the electrospun fibers was observed and correlated with increased brittleness and molecular rigidity of the nonwoven material, reflected by an increase in Tyr emission intensity and phosphorescence lifetime. Changes in tensile strength, brittleness and matrix rigidity also correlated with a zein secondary structure transition from unordered to ordered β-sheets. Raman and luminescence micrographs showed oil migration during storage, thereby increasing lipid oxidation. The correlation between local rigidity and lipid distribution/oxidation suggests that reorganizing protein structures increased material brittleness and displaced encapsulated oils within the electrospun fiber. Understanding deteriorative mechanisms aids in developing innovative strategies to improve the stability of these novel food-grade materials.

Fibrous materials play a significant role in many industries, such as lightweight automotive materials, filtration, or as constituents of hygiene products. The properties of fibrous materials are governed to a large extent by their microstructure. One way to access the microstructure is to use micro-Computed Tomography (micro-CT). Completely characterizing the microstructure requires geometrically characterizing each individual fiber. To make this possible, one must identify the individual fibers. Our method achieves this by finding in segmented µCT scans the centerline of all individual fibers. It uses a convolutional neural network that was trained on automatically generated synthetic training data. From the centerlines, analytic descriptions of the individual fibers are constructed. These analytic representations allow detailed insights into the statistics of the geometric properties of the fibrous material, such as the fibers' orientation, length, or curvature. The method is validated on artificial data sets and its usefulness demonstrated on a very large micro-CT scan of a nonwoven composed of long fibers with random curvature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increasing awareness of human environmental protection, the development of biodegradable bio-based materials has received more attention. As the off-cuts of silk, a natural protein fiber, waste silk still retains excellent properties such as biodegradability and biocompatibility, recycling and utilization of waste silk is currently very limited. To find a possible method to recycle low-cost waste silk and process it into high-value-added products, in this work, the waste silk from the silk spinning process was prepared into silk nonwoven (SN) with excellent air permeability, softness, water–oil amphiphilicity, biodegradability, and ultraviolet resistance by the wet laid process. The results showed that the uniform SN could be prepared when the alkali concentration was higher than 0.6%. The permeability of SN is higher than 80 mm/s, and the bending stiffness is lower than 0.085gf·cm2/cm. Notably, SN possesses entanglement at both fiber and fibril levels, enabling it to achieve a base strength of 0.58 MPa without additional reinforcement. The water contact angle and oil contact angle of SN were below 40° and 50°, respectively. The ultraviolet protection of SN-0.6 was classified as very good, with a degradation rate of 4.31% of SN-0.6 after 30 days of burial. The present research shows that silk nonwoven is a potential bio-based material with promising applications in the field of packaging and cleaning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to investigate the influences of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and graphene flakes (GFs) on the microwave absorption performance of nonwovens. Nonwovens were modified with CNTs and GFs through an impregnation method, creating a series of absorption samples with different carbon nanomaterial contents. Then the absorption performance of the samples was tested on both sides in the X-band (8.2~12.4 GHz) and the Ku-band (12~18 GHz) using the arch method. The experimental results showed that the absorption performance of GF-impregnated nonwovens was superior to that of CNT-impregnated nonwovens, and the overall absorption performance in the Ku-band was better than in the X-band. At a CNT content of 5 wt.%, the reflection loss of the impregnated nonwovens on the backside reached a minimum of −14.06 dB and remained below −10 dB in the 17.42~17.88 GHz frequency range. The sample fabricated with 4 wt.% GFs in the impregnation solution exhibited the best absorption performance, with minimum reflection losses of −15.33 dB and −33.18 GHz in the X-band and Ku-band, respectively. When the GFs were at 3 wt.%, the absorption bandwidth below −10 dB reached 4.16 GHz. In contrast to CNT-impregnated nonwovens, the frontside of GF-impregnated nonwovens demonstrated better absorption performance in the Ku-band. The results of this work provide experimental data support for the fabrication and application of microwave absorption materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In production of needle punched nonwoven fabrics, direction of needle barbs is towards the tip of the needle. When the needle penetrates into the fabric, the barbs carry some fibres into the fabric and when it returns the barbs are empty. This means that the needle works when it penetrates into the fabric and doesn't work when it returns. Using a bi-directional barb needle in the needle-punch process was proposed as an idea with the theory that the needle also works when returning (leaving the fabric). In this study, the test specimens were prepared by two type of needles in an industrial needle machine. Fibre displacement at fabric cross-section was examined by optic and scanning electron microscopy for two types of needles. An experiment with 190 samples was produced using the response surface methodology and optimal design with two quantitative factors, including the number of strokes per minute and needle penetration depth, and one qualitative factor containing needle types. In addition, six responses were measured and reported in the machine direction and cross direction, including breaking load, extension, and tenacity. According to the findings, the tensile characteristics of non-woven (NW) fabrics generated produced by bi-directional barbed needles were higher than those produced by unidirectional barbed needles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physical vapor deposition (PVD) sputtering is a promising technique for the generation of electrically conductive coatings on complex structured biomaterials, such as nonwovens, that can be used in implants. The ultra-thin coatings can fulfil a variety of purposes, such as drug depot or biosensor. The aim of our studies was to determine the feasibility of generating thin silver (Ag) coatings on complex structured poly-L-lactide (PLLA) nonwovens by sputtering and their morphological characterization. PVD sputter process was performed using a customized plasma chamber and a complex rotation of the tender electrospun PLLA nonwovens. Morphological analysis revealed a promising homogenous Ag coating, representing the structure of the nonwovens.

The controlled manufacturing of semiconductor photocatalysts is crucial to their development for drinking water treatment. In this study, TiO2-coated meltblown nonwoven fabrics prepared via Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) are applied for the inactivation of Escherichia coli (E. coli). It is observed that in the presence of an ultraviolet light-emitting diode (UV-LED) light source (255 nm), 1.35 log E. coli inactivation is achieved. However, exposure to catalyst-coated fabrics in addition to the light source resulted in >4 log E. coli inactivation, suggesting a much higher rate of hydroxyl radical formation on the surface, leading to cell death.

Literature reviews have described the applications of silver, copper, and zinc ions and metallic particles of Cu, Ti, and Zn oxides, which have been found to be useful antimicrobial reagents for the biofunctionalization of various materials and their surfaces. For this purpose, compositions of water dispersions containing emulsions of synthetic copolymers based on acrylic and vinyl monomers, polysaccharides (hydroxyethyl cellulose and starch), and various additives with wetting and stabilizing properties were used. Many stable water dispersions of different chemical compositions containing bioactive chemical compounds (copper silicate hydrate, titanium dioxide, and zinc oxide (and other auxiliary substances)) were developed. They were used for the preparation of thin hybrid coatings having good antimicrobial properties against Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli), Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus), and yeast fungus (Candida albicans). Polyester (PES) and polylactide (PLA) nonwovens were modified using the dip-coating method, while PES and cotton fabrics were biofunctionalized by means of dip-coating and coating methods. The antimicrobial (antibacterial and antifungal) properties of the textile materials (nonwovens and fabrics) biofunctionalized with the above-mentioned bioactive agents exhibiting antimicrobial properties (CuSiO3, TiO2, ZnO, or ZnO∙SiO2) were strongly dependent on the agents' content in the water dispersions. The PES and PLA nonwovens, modified on the surface with water compositions containing copper silicate hydrate, showed good antibacterial properties against the Gram-negative bacteria Escherichia coli, even at a content of 1 wt.% CuSiO3∙xH2O, and against the Gram-positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus, at the content of at least 5 wt.% CuSiO3∙xH2O. The bacterial growth reduction factor (R) was greater than 99% for most of the samples tested. Good antifungal properties against the fungus Candida albicans were found for the PES and PLA nonwoven fabrics modified with dispersions containing 5–7 wt.% CuSiO3∙xH2O and 4.2–5.0 wt.% TiO2. The addition of TiO2 led to a significant improvement in the antifungal properties of the PES and PLA nonwovens modified in this way. For the samples of PES WIFP-270 and FS F-5 nonwovens, modified with water dispersions containing 5.0 wt.% CuSiO3∙xH2O and 4.2–5.0 wt.% TiO2, the growth reduction factor for the fungus Candida albicans (R) reached values in the range of 80.9–98.0%. These new biofunctionalized polymeric nonwoven textile materials can find practical applications in the manufacture of filters for hospital air-conditioning systems and for the automotive industry, as well as in air purification devices. Moreover, similar antimicrobial modification of fabrics with the dip-coating or coating methods can be applied, for example, in the fabrication of fungi- and mold-resistant garden furniture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polylactic acid (PLA) melt‐blown nonwovens are promising materials for medical and healthcare applications due to their properties such as softness, breathability, biodegradability, and biocompatibility. However, their widespread commercial application has been limited by their poor mechanical properties and insufficient hydrophilicity limit. To address these limitations, we prepared polylactic acid/polyethylene glycol@sodium dodecyl sulfate (PLA/PEG@SDS) microfibers‐based nonwovens using a melt‐blown process. The average fiber diameter of PLA/PEG@SDS microfibers nonwovens could be tuned from 1 to 13.9 μm by regulating the die temperature or hot air pressure. In addition, increasing the die temperature from 210°C to 225°C resulted in a 140.3% and 124.8% increase in the breaking resistance along the mechanical direction (MD) and transverse direction (CD), respectively. Meanwhile, the increase in the breaking resistance was observed between the hot air pressure and the mechanical strength of the PLA/PEG@SDS microfibers‐based nonwovens. Notably, the prepared samples exhibited a short wetting time of 3.438 s, a fast water absorption rate of 68.401%·s−1, and an excellent liquid water diffusion of 5.86 mm s−1. These results suggest that the PLA/PEG@SDS microfibers nonwovens prepared using melt‐blown process demonstrate efficient wetting performance, which paves the way for the industrial production of medical‐grade materials such as wound dressings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study describes the development and implementation of a lab‐scale four‐needle nosepiece for solution blowing, which enabled the investigation of the roping probability of four polymer jets at different inter‐needle distances and air velocities. The roping probabilities of the four jets were compared to the corresponding roping probabilities of two jets previously established by the present group. The comparison revealed that at the relatively low air velocities (pressures), the four‐jet configuration reduces roping relative to the two‐jet case, which stems from the reduction of the end effect. However, at relatively high air velocities (pressures), turbulent pulsations in the surrounding air become more dominant than the end effect. Accordingly, the four‐jet case reveals a higher probability of roping at higher air velocities (pressures). The findings shed light on the behavior of multiple solution‐blown jets and the impact of the end effect on roping. The severity of roping in the case of four jets at diminishing inter‐needle distances and increasing air velocity was analyzed using recordings of polymer jets in flight by a high‐speed camera and scanning electron microscopy of the corresponding laydown structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of primary amino acid sequence in recombinant spidroins on their spatial organization is crucial for the fabrication of artificial fibers and fibrous materials. This study focuses on the rheological properties of aqueous and alcoholic solutions of recombinant analogs of natural spidroins (rS1/9 and rS2/12), as well as the structure of their films and nanofibrous materials. Non-Newtonian flow behavior of aqueous solutions of these proteins was observed at certain concentrations in contrast to their solutions in hexafluoroisopropanol. The secondary structure of recombinant spidroins was addressed by IR spectroscopy, whereas their self-organization in various solvents was studied by AFM and cryo-TEM. The influence of the solvent on the structure and properties of the films and nanofibrous materials produced by electrospinning has been established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic led to a huge demand for disposable facemasks. Billions were manufactured from nonbiodegradable petroleum-derived polymers, and many were discarded in the environment where they contributed to plastic pollution. There is an urgent need for biobased and biodegradable facemasks to avoid environmental harm during future disease outbreaks. Melt electrospinning is a promising alternative technique for the manufacturing of filter layers using sub-microfibers prepared from biobased raw materials such as polybutylene succinate (PBS). However, it is not yet possible to produce sub-micrometer PBS fibers or uniform nonwoven-like samples at the pilot scale, which hinders their investigation as filter layers. Further optimization of pilot-scale PBS melt electrospinning is therefore required. Here, we tested the effect of different parameters such as electric field strength, nozzle-to-collector distance and throughput on the final fiber diameter and sample uniformity during PBS melt electrospinning on a pilot-scale device. We also studied the effect of a climate chamber and an additional infrared heater on the solidification of PBS fibers and their final diameter and uniformity. In addition, a post-processing step, including a hot air stream of 90 °C for 30 s has been studied and successfully lead to a nonwoven-like structure including filaments that weld together without changing their structure. The finest fibers (1.7 µm in diameter) were produced at an applied electric field strength of −40 kV, a nozzle-to-collector distance of 5.5 cm, and a spin pump speed of 2 rpm. Three uniform nonwoven-like samples were tested as filter layers in a medical face mask by measuring their ability to prevent the transfer of bacteria, but the pore size was too large for effective retention. Our results provide insight into the process parameters influencing the suitability of melt-electrospun nonwoven-like samples as biobased and biodegradable filter materials and offer guidance for further process optimization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work aims to evaluate the potential of bamboo/polyester blended needle-punched nonwoven batts as thermal insulators. This research investigated the effects of physical properties on the thermal resistance and the bursting strength subjected to the different number of layers of the batt structure. Bamboo/polyester nonwoven batt was prepared by using a needle-punching technique. The nonwoven batt was made into single, two and three-layers structures termed as 1BP, 2BP and 3BP. Physical properties such as thickness, areal weight, density and porosity were determined to evaluate their relationship with thermal resistance and bursting strength. The properties of bamboo/polyester nonwoven batt were compared with that of polyester nonwoven batt commercially used as insulation layers in comforters. The thermal resistance and bursting strength were found to increase with the increased number of layers and were better than the commercial sample. The ranking shows that density and porosity have the most effect on thermal resistance and bursting strength, followed by areal weight and thickness. High and significant Pearson's correlation coefficient and P-value indicated that density and porosity are the parameters that mainly influence the thermal resistance of the nonwoven batt. On the other hand, the number of layers was the most influential parameter for bursting strength. Based on the findings, 3BP nonwoven batts exhibited better thermal insulation performance and better strength with the value of 0.2932 m2 K/W and 3.78 kgf, respectively. In comparison, the commercial polyester nonwoven batt recorded a thermal resistance value of 0.2390 m2 K/W and bursting strength of 2.92 kgf. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While nonwoven fabrics have existed for several decades, their usage in personal protective equipment (PPE) has been met with a rapid surge of demands, in part due to the recent COVID-19 pandemic. This review aims to critically examine the current state of nonwoven PPE fabrics by exploring (i) the material constituents and processing steps to produce fibers and bond them, and (ii) how each fabric layer is integrated into a textile, and how the assembled textiles are used as PPE. Firstly, filament fibers are manufactured via dry, wet, and polymer-laid fiber spinning methods. Then the fibers are bonded via chemical, thermal, and mechanical means. Emergent nonwoven processes such as electrospinning and centrifugal spinning to produce unique ultrafine nanofibers are discussed. Nonwoven PPE applications are categorized as filters, medical usage, and protective garments. The role of each nonwoven layer, its role, and textile integration are discussed. Finally, the challenges stemming from the single-use nature of nonwoven PPEs are discussed, especially in the context of growing concerns over sustainability. Then, emerging solutions to address sustainability issues with material and processing innovations are explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing popularity of single-use wet wipes across a variety of applications has caused environmental and economic challenges. Due to their convenience and low cost, disposable nonwoven wipes have become a necessity in the lives of many. However, consumers rarely consider the end-of-life of these items. Despite efforts from stakeholders, including wipes manufacturers and wastewater experts, there is frequent confusion among consumers regarding appropriate disposal. Many consumers flush wipes that are not compatible with municipal sewer systems, causing considerable damage. Additionally, wipes have poor environmental outcomes, as they often contain non-renewable plastics or are unable to biodegrade under disposal conditions. Previously, the wet wipes industry was projected to grow an average of 6% between 2021 and 2025; however, the use of these disposable items is projected to be much higher due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This paper reviews the market, key challenges, and technical properties of single-use nonwoven wipes. An emphasis is placed on the unique properties and associated challenges of flushable wipes. With strong market demands, consumers are unlikely to abandon single-use wipes, and therefore innovative solutions are required to solve the main environmental and technical challenges associated with flushable and non-flushable wipes.

Adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) are an attractive cell source for cell therapy. Despite the increasing number of clinical applications, the methodology for ASC isolation is not optimized for every individual. In this study, we developed an effective material to stabilize explant cultures from small-fragment adipose tissues. Methods: Polypropylene/polyethylene nonwoven sheets were coated with hydroxyapatite (HA) particles. Adipose fragments were then placed on these sheets, and their ability to trap tissue was monitored during explant culture. The yield and properties of the cells were compared to those of cells isolated by conventional collagenase digestion. Results: Hydroxyapatite-coated nonwovens immediately trapped adipose fragments when placed on the sheets. The adhesion was stable even in culture media, leading to cell migration and proliferation from the tissue along with the nonwoven fibers. A higher fiber density further enhanced cell growth. Although cells on nonwoven explants could not be fully collected with cell dissociation enzymes, the cell yield was significantly higher than that of conventional monolayer culture without impacting stem cell properties. Conclusions: Hydroxyapatite-coated nonwovens are useful for the effective primary explant culture of connective tissues without enzymatic cell dissociation.

Electrospun fibers based on synthetic and natural polymers represent a promising approach in order to mimic the mechanical stability and the required cell-polymer interaction of the natural extracellular matrix (ECM), . In this biomedical context, the biodegradable medical grade poly-llactide (PLLA) and the natural gelatin are already well established. However, to obtain a stabilized structured PLLA/gelatin blend, crosslinking of gelatin is required. In this study, the influence of the post processed crosslinking via Glutaraldehyde (GTA) vapor and GTA solution on the morphological and physicochemical properties of the blend, as well as on the in vitrorelease of previously incorporated dexamethasone (DMS), was investigated. The addition of gelatin decreased the fiber diameter and increased the surface hydrophilicity, which is furthermore unaffected by the crosslinking process. The in vitrorelease of DMS was decisively changed by both, the addition of gelatin and the subsequent crosslinking processes. For all modified samples, a very rapid burst release of DMS was detected within the first 24 h, which is crucial for biomedical applications such as tumor therapy.

Most nonwoven products are subjected to a variety of loading rates ranging from low‐speed quasi‐static loads to high‐speed dynamic loads during their life cycles. Understanding their response to a wide range of loading rates is critical to proper usage and effects how rapidly one can process them. In this work quasi‐static to high strain rate experiments (10−3 to 100 to 400 strain/s) are investigated. The results from analyzing the rate‐dependent properties show an increase in the strength and modulus accompanied by a reduced strain to failure in nonwovens as the strain rate increases. Higher basis weight samples showed more prominent rate‐dependent properties across all loading rates and fiber orientations. Ductile to brittle transition in the material failure mechanisms were observed. The specimens with rectangular and circular bonding patterns show higher strain localization than the specimens with the diamond bonding pattern due to the higher fiber reorientation. The rate dependent response at higher loading rates does not follow the typical rate dependent models of Johnson–Cook and Cowper–Symonds. This is a vital understanding as the material greatly stiffens up at higher rates and has a much lower strain to failure than one would expect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Polymer Materials Science & Engineering is the property of Sichuan University, Polymer Research Institute and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The idea of "Nanoval technology" origins in the metal injection molding for gas atomization of metal powders and the knowledge of spunbond technologies for the creation of thermoplastic nonwovens using the benefits of both techniques. In this study, we evaluated processing limits experimentally for the spinning of different types of polypropylene, further standard polymers, and polyphenylene sulfide, marked by defect-free fiber creation. A numerical simulation study of the turbulent air flow as well as filament motion in the process visualized that the turnover from uniaxial flow (initial stretching caused by the high air velocity directed at the spinning die) to turbulent viscoelastic behavior occurs significantly earlier than in the melt-blown process. Modeling of the whole process showed that additional guide plates below the spinneret reduce the turbulent air flow significantly by regulating the inflow of secondary process air. The corresponding melt flow index of processible polymer grades varied between 35 g·10min−1 up to 1200 g·10min−1 and thus covering the range of extrusion-type, spunbond-type, yarn-type, and meltblown-type polymers. Hence, mean fiber diameters were adjustable for PP between 0.8 and 39.3 μm without changing components of the process setup. This implies that the Nanoval process enables the flexibility to produce fiber diameters in the typical range achievable by the standard meltblown process (~1–7 μm) as well as in the coarseness of spunbond nonwovens (15–30 μm) and, moreover, operates in the gap between them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Melt-blown nonwovens flexible porous media made up directly of superfine fibers not only have a large fiber specific surface area fluffy structure and good shielding properties but also have a wide range of raw material sources short production processes and many product variations and are currently used in a wide range of skin-fitting applications such as medical protection personal hygiene and intelligent temperature regulation. However the polymer raw materials currently used in melt-blown nonwovens are mainly polymers such as polypropylene polyethylene and polylactic acid which contain multiple rigid molecular chain segments in their structure resulting in brittle nonwovens that are not sufficiently tough. Therefore how to improve the softness of melt-blown nonwovens so as to further develop their application in the field of skin-fitting products has become a major issue and research hotspot in the field of skin-fitting textiles. This paper reviews the research progress on copolymer modification and blending modification of melt-blown polymer raw materials summaries the influence of melt-blown nonwoven production processes on the flexibility of the materials and describes the forms of applications of melt-blown nonwovens in the field of flexible skin-fitting providing references and new ideas for the flexibility improvement and skin-fitting application and development of melt-blown nonwovens. The high melt flow index narrow molecular weight distribution and low melt viscosity of the polymer raw materials used in the melt-blown process not only help the polymer melt to draw into fibers but also improve the flexibility of the nonwoven materials by introducing other substances. A common method of improving the softness of polymers is therefore the copolymerization and blending of polymeric raw materials in the melt-blown process and a great deal of work has been done by many researchers to improve the softness of polymers. Copolymer modification is to introduce the specific molecular chain segments into the main polymer macromolecule chain through a chemical reaction so as to change the polymer molecular structure to improve the polymer molecular chain flexibility. In contrast blending modification can be done by blending elastomers small molecule oligomers or soft masterbatches to reduce the rigidity of the blends which is a common physical modification method to improve the polymer flexibility with the advantages of simple operation process and low production costs. In addition the control of the forming process of melt-blown nonwovens can be easily regulated. The flexibility of the nonwoven material can be improved by making the resulting fibers finer in diameter more porous and fluffier in structure by adjusting the process parameters such as the receiving distance hot air pressure hot air temperature and die head temperature. Therefore the study of the influence of process parameters on the structure and properties of nonwovens can provide a reference for the further improvement of the softness and comfort of melt-blown nonwovens and the development of skin-fitting materials. This paper presents a review of methods to improve the flexibility of melt-blown nonwovens and their skin-fitting applications. Based on this it is found that adding flexible molecular chains to the macromolecular chains of polymer raw materials or melt blending them with flexible materials or adjusting the parameters of the melt-blown nonwoven process can effectively improve the flexibility of nonwovens. At the same time there are several issues that need to be improved i different types of polymer raw materials require different methods chemical or physical to improve material flexibility and it should be considered that the method has the characteristics of simple operation low cost and industrial mass production ii it is also necessary to increase the diversity of functional applications of materials in improving the flexibility of melt-blown nonwovens which is also a future melt-blown nonwovens research hotspot. More and more scholars will pay attention to the research of melt-blown nonwovens for flexible skin-fitting application as the field of application of melt-blown nonwovens expands. This paper reviews the polymer modification methods meltblown nonwovens processes and applications of flexible skin-fitting nonwovens with the aim of providing a reference for subsequent research on melt-blown nonwoven flexibility enhancement and its application in new skin-fitting products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Industria Textila is the property of Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Textile si Pielarie and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The filtration performance of nonwovens, such as virus protection and air purification, depends largely on their microstructure, that is, their internal structure. With the development of manufacturing techniques, nonwovens can be produced with complex microstructures to deliver low air resistance and high filtration efficiency. Therefore, it seems important to reconstruct an accurate three-dimensional (3D) model to describe the various microstructures for performance evaluation and product development. Multi-focus image fusion is one of the most effective ways used for the 3D nonwoven reconstruction. However, the overlapping and crossing of fibers in multi-focus images taken on an optional microscope make 3D fiber reconstruction incomplete and discontinuous. In this study, we developed a novel fiber segmentation and 3D nonwoven reconstruction algorithm to restore fiber continuity. The fiber web image was firstly thinned into the fiber mid-axis or skeleton, and fiber fragments were detected by searching the intersections. The features, such as the angle and depth, of each fiber fragment were obtained using Harris corner detection. A cluster technique was used to group the head-points of the fiber fragments that have similar features into one cluster. All fiber fragments in the same cluster are fitted with a polynomial curve to form a complete fiber in the 3D space. The experimental results show that this new method is suitable for the reconstruction of nonwovens with complex structures, such as fiber bonding or crossing, and can automatically detect and connect fiber fragments in 3D space. It provides an effective way for the subsequent simulation/evaluation of filtration characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-woven materials feature unique properties that allow them to be used in different applications, such as the automotive sector that is increasingly seeking lightweight and sustainable materials. The aim of this work was to investigate the influence of reinforcement type and porosity on the properties of commingled, partially compacted composites based on polypropylene (PP) and polylactic acid (PLA). Furthermore, a model was applied to predict the properties of such composites, i.e., the elastic modulus, to aid materials development. It was found that high properties could be achieved using flax as reinforcement for partially compacted fleece biocomposites. Porosity is an important factor influencing these types of composites and was influenced by the compaction grade achieved as a result of stacking different numbers of layers during the consolidation of the composites. The modeling of the elastic modulus was found to be adequate for both PP-flax and PLA-flax composites for porosities under 20 vol.%.

Polyolefin functional textiles consisting of micron-nanoscale fibers effectively protect vulnerable things in many applications, however, uniformed micron-scale fiber diameter and uncontrollable pore size cause compromised strength and waterproof breathable performance. In this work, a tri-layer laminated polyolefin composite fabric consisting of polypropylene (PP) microfibrous webs and polypropylene/polyethylene (PP/PE) fibrous webs is successfully designed and manufactured by a thermal bonding composited process. At the bonding pressure from 0.05 to 0.45 MPa, the samples exhibit a smooth surface (roughness of 11.5 μm), dense laminated structure (porosity of 78.8 %), and tunable modal pore size ranged 9.36 to 3.3 μm. Specifically, an excellent filtration efficiency of 99.11 %, large waterproof breathable performance—hydrostatic pressure of 35.9 kPa, water vapor transmission of 1890 g/m2*24 h, and high strength—tensile strength of 175.33 N in the machine direction and 68.28 N in cross direction is achieved. The developed tri-layer laminated polyolefin composite fabrics also showed acceptable writing and printing quality, suggesting to be a favorable contender for application in food packaging, personal protection, and power-saving building.

The analysis of fibrous structures using micro-computer tomography (µCT) is becoming more important as it provides an opportunity to characterise the mechanical properties and performance of materials. This study is the first attempt to provide computations of fibre crimp for various random fibrous networks (RFNs) based on µCT data. A parametric algorithm was developed to compute fibre crimp in fibres in a virtual domain. It was successfully tested for six different X-ray µCT models of nonwoven fabrics. Computations showed that nonwoven fabrics with crimped fibres exhibited higher crimp levels than those with non-crimped fibres, as expected. However, with the increased fabric density of the non-crimped nonwovens, fibres tended to be more crimped. Additionally, the projected fibre crimp was computed for all three major 2D planes, and the obtained results were statistically analysed. Initially, the algorithm was tested for a small-size, nonwoven model containing only four fibres. The fraction of nearly straight fibres was computed for both crimped and non-crimped fabrics. The mean value of the fibre crimp demonstrated that fibre segments between intersections were almost straight. However, it was observed that there were no perfectly straight fibres in the analysed RFNs. This study is applicable to approach employing a finite-element analysis (FEA) and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to model/analyse RFNs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For applications such as face masks and medical gowns, defects can pose a threat to the reliability of protective materials. Roping, the entanglement of two or more fibers in a nonwoven, can cause a decrease in pore size uniformity, filtration efficiency, and barrier properties in meltblown nonwovens. In this work, a novel measurement methodology for roping was developed utilizing SEM images, ImageJ software, and statistical analysis with R. The study analyzed 16 different meltblown nonwovens with two different die tips with a 1550 MFR polypropylene, utilizing a full factorial design with 4 factors at 2 levels. A model was developed for the mitigation of roping, and it was determined that the interactions of capillary density with air flow and air flow with die-to-collector distance (DCD) had the greatest impact on the formation of roping in meltblown nonwovens. The fundamental learnings of the effects of the process parameters on roping formation could be applied to industrial applications such as face masks to tailor the balance between filtration efficiency and air permeability. The linear model could be directly applied to applications such as HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) and ULPA (Ultra Low Particulate Air) filters, for operating room and clean room filters, in which nonuniformity and loss of surface area critical to performance, and thus the mitigation of roping would be beneficial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing popularity of single-use wet wipes across a variety of applications has caused environmental and economic challenges. Due to their convenience and low cost, disposable nonwoven wipes have become a necessity in the lives of many. However, consumers rarely consider the end-of-life of these items. Despite efforts from stakeholders, including wipes manufacturers and wastewater experts, there is frequent confusion among consumers regarding appropriate disposal. Many consumers flush wipes that are not compatible with municipal sewer systems, causing considerable damage. Additionally, wipes have poor environmental outcomes, as they often contain non-renewable plastics or are unable to biodegrade under disposal conditions. Previously, the wet wipes industry was projected to grow an average of 6% between 2021 and 2025; however, the use of these disposable items is projected to be much higher due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This paper reviews the market, key challenges, and technical properties of single-use nonwoven wipes. An emphasis is placed on the unique properties and associated challenges of flushable wipes. With strong market demands, consumers are unlikely to abandon single-use wipes, and therefore innovative solutions are required to solve the main environmental and technical challenges associated with flushable and non-flushable wipes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The deposition of coatings with hierarchical morphology from hydrophobic and hydrophilic polymers is a common approach for making superhydrophobic and superhydrophilic coatings. The water‐repellent, water‐wicking, and anti‐icing coatings reported here are made from a class of materials called soft dendritic colloids (SDCs). The branched, nanofibrous SDCs are produced in suspension through nonsolvent‐induced phase separation in a turbulent medium. The properties of coatings formed by drying ethanol suspensions of SDCs made of polystyrene, polyvinyl alcohol, and polyester are compared. The highly branched SDC morphology creates entangled, porous coating layers with strong physical adhesion to the substrate due to the multitude of nanofiber sub‐contacts analogous to the "gecko leg effect". Polystyrene SDC coatings show excellent superhydrophobicity but weaker adhesion due to low surface energy. Alternatively, polyvinyl alcohol SDC coatings show superhydrophilicity and strong adhesion from their high surface energy. Two strategies to improve the adhesivity and cohesivity of the SDCs layers are shown effective – use of intertwined networks and of silicone droplet microbinders. The water repulsion, together with the air trapped in the blended superhydrophobic coatings also makes them effective against ice nucleation and adhesion. Finally, these SDCs make thin, flexible, and durable nonwovens with similar properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fire hazard potential of nonwovens with different overlap configurations and various thicknesses between 0.5 and 5 mm were investigated to clarify the possible worsening situation induced by the difference in overlapping configurations. The fire hazard of thermally thin nonwovens is characterized by flame spread, flame height, temperature distribution, and mass loss. The flame spread rate and FDI (fire development index) increase and then decrease as the thickness of the nonwovens increases. The fire hazard potential of samples with OL configuration (overlapping layer by layer configuration) is higher than that with AO configuration (accordion-style overlap configuration), which is reflected in the high FDI, average fire spread rate, and flame height, and low ignition time. The difference between the fire risk of the two overlapping configurations was confirmed by analyzing the heat transfer mechanism. Due to the different packaging methods, the AO and OL configurations of nonwovens show different degrees of shrinkage and curling effects during combustion. The large air gap between the layers and the weight of the sample edge are the reasons for the weak contraction of the sample with an AO configuration. The sample shrinkage with OL configuration strengthens the flame spread to a certain extent by increasing the convective heat transfer in the preheat zone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, an attempt has been made to develop nonwoven fabrics by needle punching technology and comfort characteristics of needle punched nonwoven fabrics are analyzed with respect to thermal conductivity, water absorbency, and air permeability. Box-Behnken experimental design was used to study the influence of parameters such as needle punch density, needle penetration depth and fabric areal weight on thermal conductivity, water absorbency, and air permeability. From the responses, it was noted that the maximum water absorbency of 494% and air permeability of 79 cm3/cm2/s and minimum thermal conductivity of 0.0251 W/mK was achieved at needle punch density 75 punches/cm2, 8 mm needle penetration depth and fabric areal weight 150 g/m2.