Structure and mechanical properties of polyethylene melt blown nonwovens

Abstract

Purpose - Recently, the usage of melt blown products in many areas has increased. In melt blown process, generally polymers have been used. There are a variety of polymers. Characteristics of melt blown nonwovens have changed significantly depending on the polymer type. Also, there are several parameters such as die temperature, die-to-collector distance (DCD), air pressure, etc. that modify the nonwovens in melt blown process. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effect of these parameters on the characteristics of nonwovens made up of polyethylene (PE). Design/methodology/approach - In the melt blown process, two die temperatures, three different die air pressures and three different DCDs were used. In total, 18 samples were produced. On produced samples, thickness, tear and tensile strengths, fiber diameter, basis weight tests were done. Also SEM observations were obtained. Findings - It was observed that parameters studied have a significant effect on characteristics of the produced nonwoven. Fiber diameter, basis weight and strength decrease by depending on factors. Also, it was observed that temperature has an effect, but slight. This work shows that higher temperatures should be studied. Finer and uniform fiber diameter is obtained with an increase in air pressure. Research limitations/implications - PE is becoming increasingly important in nonwovens due to its lower melting point for processing and softer feel in nonwoven products. Practical implications - Although the use of PE in polymer-laid nonwovens, especially as bicomponent fibers, has been growing in recent years, there are limited data on their processability and performance. In this context, with the availability of relatively higher melt flow rate PE, understanding the processability and structure and properties of the melt blown PE is very helpful in designing and developing the right products. This research was conducted to evaluate the processability of the PE resin using a typical PP melt blowing pilot line and to determine the structure and properties of the formed webs. Originality/value - PE has superior properties such as excellent chemical resistance, good fatigue, wear resistance and higher impact strength. Also, PE provides good resistance to organic solvents, degreasing agents and electrolytic attack. PE has lower working temperatures than polypropylene, is light in weight, resistant to staining and has low moisture absorption rates. Thus, this study provides important contributions to the area since there are no data reported about the effect of various processing parameters on the structure and properties of PE melt blown nonwovens.