TEXTILES.ORG
The Journal of Industrial Textiles has published the results of a study conducted by Texas Tech University and Milwaukee, Wis., based Enercon Industries that determined when spunbond polypropylene nonwoven fabrics are pre-treated with atmospheric plasma the breathability of the fabric increases.
Atmospheric plasma treatment increases the number of pores and enlarges the pore size of the fabric, improving the diffusion of vapor between the filaments in the spunbond structure without compromising the barrier qualities. These properties are significant for medical industry applications, such as surgical masks, gowns and drapes.
Manufacturers and end-users continue to seek a nonwoven material that is lower cost and has improved breathability, flexibility and sterilization properties, as well as resistance to blood and viral penetration. Enercon’s Plasma3™ is an in-line, dry and continuous surface treatment process for web application. According to a press release from the company, its treatment techniques provide a fast, efficient and eco-friendly breathability effect on nonwoven/textile surfaces.
To view the full article and study results, visit the Journal of Industrial Textiles (Volume 42 No 4). Contact Rory Wolf at 262 255 6070 for more information or to schedule a lab trial.