HIROSE PAPER MFG CO.,LTD.

NONWOVEN INSIGHTS

Types and Characteristics of Materials Used in Nonwoven Fabrics

Publication Date: 2025.01.13 Updated: 2025.01.23

Nonwoven fabrics refer to sheets made by entangling fibers from raw materials into a fabric-like structure. The functionality of nonwoven fabrics greatly depends on the type of material used. In this article, we will explore the specific raw materials used for nonwoven fabrics and how these materials influence their functionality.

Material Classification and Characteristics

Materials used in nonwoven fabrics can be broadly classified into natural fibers and synthetic fibers. Synthetic fibers, such as polypropylene, polyethylene, polyester, and nylon, are more commonly used. Each fiber has unique properties that directly impact the functionality of nonwoven fabrics. For example, polyester is highly heat-resistant, making it ideal for applications requiring high thermal performance.
Material selection is critical not only for functionality but also for factors such as texture and safety, especially for direct contact with the human body. Let’s dive deeper into the materials used in nonwoven fabrics, categorized into natural and synthetic fibers.

Natural Fibers

Natural fibers are derived from materials such as cotton and flax. They are free of synthetic chemicals, making them suitable for applications that come into direct contact with food or skin. Common uses include disposable diapers, bandages, and clothing, all of which are part of our everyday lives. As environmental awareness grows, natural fibers are gaining increased attention.

Material Image Description
Cotton Cotton Soft and highly absorbent, cotton is gentle on the skin and breathable. It is often used for diapers, sanitary napkins, and gauze.
Bamboo Bamboo Bamboo is known for its rapid growth and sustainability. It possesses antibacterial properties, excellent moisture absorption, and quick-drying capabilities, making it suitable for masks and kitchen cloths.
Linen/Jute Linen Strong and durable, linen and jute offer a natural texture. They are used for eco-bags, furniture linings, and geotextiles.
Wool Wool Wool has excellent insulation, moisture absorption, and fire resistance. It is used in insulation materials, soundproofing, and winter clothing.
Silk Silk Silk is smooth to the touch and exudes luxury. Its moisture absorption makes it suitable for cosmetic pads, gift wraps, and linings for high-end clothing.

Chemical Fibers

Chemical fibers, manufactured artificially, offer superior functionality compared to natural fibers, including heat resistance, chemical resistance, and durability. Chemical fibers are widely used across industries, ranging from daily necessities to industrial applications. These fibers can be further divided into chemical fibers and regenerated fibers based on their raw materials and manufacturing processes.

Synthetic Fibers

Synthetic fibers are made from petroleum-based polymers. Examples include polyester and nylon, which are lightweight, durable, and resistant to heat and chemicals. These properties make them ideal for high-performance applications such as automotive parts and industrial filters.

Material Image Description
Polyurethane (PU) Polyurethane (PU) Elastic and breathable, polyurethane is used for bandages, sportswear, and stretchable undergarments.
Polyethylene (PE) Polyethylene (PE) Flexible and water-resistant, polyethylene is widely used for shopping bags, packaging, waterproof sheets, and agricultural films.
Polypropylene (PP) Polypropylene (PP) Lightweight, water-resistant, and chemically stable, polypropylene is often used for disposable items such as medical masks and diapers.
Polyester (PET) Polyester (PET) Durable with high strength, heat resistance, and abrasion resistance. It is used in curtains, automotive interiors, and industrial filters.
Nylon (Polyamide) Nylon (Polyamide) Highly durable and heat-resistant, nylon is used in high-performance filters, medical sutures, and durable clothing.
Polyphenylene Sulfide (PPS) Polyphenylene Sulfide (PPS) Known for its high heat resistance and chemical stability, PPS is used for wastewater filters and automotive components.
Polyimide Polyimide Offering exceptional heat resistance, mechanical strength, and flame resistance, polyimide is used in electronic insulation, aerospace heat shields, and protective clothing.

Regenerated Fibers

Regenerated fibers are made from natural resources or recycled materials. A notable example is rayon, derived from plant-based cellulose. These fibers combine the environmental friendliness of natural fibers with the functionality and durability of synthetic fibers. They are increasingly recognized for their sustainability and versatility.

Material Image Description
Rayon/Viscose Rayon/Viscose Soft and highly absorbent, rayon is commonly used in facial masks, wet wipes, gauze, and bandages.
Lyocell Lyocell Strong and moisture-absorbent, lyocell is used for clothing, towels, bed linens, and some industrial filters.
Acetate Acetate Glossy and soft to the touch, acetate is used for clothing linings, luxury packaging, and cigarette filters.
Recycled Polyester Recycled Polyester Made from recycled PET bottles, this durable material is used in apparel, bags, shoes, and outdoor gear.

Consult Us for Nonwoven Fabrics

Material selection is crucial in designing the functionality of nonwoven fabrics. Even though they are all categorized as “nonwoven fabrics,” the choice of material significantly affects attributes like softness, weight, durability, heat resistance, and chemical resistance. Each material requires optimized manufacturing processes, demanding advanced expertise and technology.

At Hirose Paper Mfg. Co., Ltd., we have been at the forefront of nonwoven fabric development since our establishment in 1958, following our success in developing Japan’s first wet-laid nonwoven fabric using synthetic vinylon fibers. Over the past 60 years, we have continued to lead the industry with cutting-edge innovations, including “100% synthetic fiber nonwoven fabrics” and “the world’s thinnest wet-laid nonwoven fabric (2g/m² made from 100% polyolefin fibers).” Our proprietary electrospinning technology enables us to create advanced products like nanofiber-based nonwoven fabrics, lithium-ion battery separators, functional air filters, and medical-grade nonwoven fabrics.

If you have any questions or challenges regarding nonwoven fabrics, feel free to contact us. Our dedicated team of specialists is ready to assist you.