INJ DEPARTMENTS

WORLWIDE ABSTRACTS AND REVIEWS

A sampling of Nonwovens Abstracts from Pira International:
A unique intelligence service for the nonwovens industry

These pages feature an extract from Nonwovens Abstracts, compiled by Pira International, from international business journals, newspapers, market research reports and conference proceedings, keeping you up-to-date on the latest business and technical developments in the nonwovens industry. Nonwovens Abstracts provides international coverage on all aspects of nonwovens production: fibers, raw materials, web formation, bonding and converting. Information is also provided on all the different nonwoven products, from composites to cleaning materials and the companies and markets involved. A monthly journal is available and readers can also access the information from the Paper, Printing and Packaging Database on CD-ROM, updated quarterly. The information is available online via the major hosts and from the Pira Database on Pira's website - www.pira.co.uk. The web and online databases are updated weekly. Pira can provide full text copies of documents cited in the Pira Database and the associated abstracts journals. The full text will normally be in the language of publication. For a sample journal, a free trial of the web database or more information, please contact the Information Center, Pira International, Randalls Road, Leatherhead, Surrey KT22 7RU, UK. Fax: 00 44 (0)1372 802239 or email: infocentre@pira.co.uk For this particular selection, non-English language publications were reviewed in an effort to provide coverage of relatively less accessible sources to a large portion of the INJ audience.

Microbial control finish
Toray Industries of Tokyo, Japan, have reported on their "Makspec" fabrics - polyesters with a microbial control finish. The principal bacteria are methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), klebsiella pneumoniae, staphylococcus aureus, pseudomonas aeruginoza and escherichia coli. The fabrics have been test washed for 15 minutes at 85^oC 100 times and antibacterial high performance is maintained. The outer fibre portions are penetrated by the active agent, a method improving on surface adherence and kneading into inside fibres in production. Finishing and dyeing methods are the same as for normal polyester fabrics. MRSA and E. coli 0-157 protection is 3-5 times higher than other products. Toray plans further healthcare developments and anticipates Japanese sales of 4.5m metres within three years. (1 fig).
   Author: Anon
   Source: New Mater. Jpn
   Issue: Jan. 1999, pp 10-11

Finding your solution
Nonwoven panels, especially needle penetrable panels, sometimes referred to as tapestry, are discussed in a question and answer format. These panels can be based on synthetics, viscose or wool fibres, and various surface effects can be obtained, e.g. bright or matt, smooth, fleecy, and also hot or cold tones. With synthetics, luminescent effects can be obtained. Needle penetrable panels are relatively new and are not yet widely used, partly because the machines required for their production are not always available.
   Author: Aleksandrova M
   Source: Text. Ind.
   Issue: No. 1, 1998, pp 17-19 (In Russian)

Honshu Kinokurosu - Material supplier for two wipe fields, kitchen paper and wet hand towels
Honshu Kinokurosu's dry pulp non-woven "Kinokurosu" is mostly used for wipes, in particular kitchen paper and wet hand towels. Lion's kitchen paper, made of Kinokurosu, has been on the Japanese market for 30 years, and its first-grade quality has taken 25% of the market share. Honshu Timely, Honshu Kinokurosu's associated company, is Japan's top supplier of wet hand towels and offers a wide range of products from the luxurious to the economical. The market for wet hand towels is considered to be growing steadily. However, the notion that wet hand towels are customarily given out free is quite strong among Japanese consumers, so common acceptance as a retail item may be slow. (1 fig)

   Author: Anon
   Source: Nonwovens Rev.
   Issue: Vol. 9, No. 4, Dec. 1998, p. 14 (In Japanese)

Uni Charm - Top share holder in cosmetic cut cotton and baby wipe fields
Uni Charm (UC) supplies a wide range of wipes and hand towels, and leads in the field of cosmetic cut cotton and baby wipes in Japan. Cosmetic cut cotton "Silcot" has been on the market for 24 years, and has become the top-rank brand, with a 30% market share. Recently the product has been improved to inner cotton sealed-in type which does not leave lint on the skin after use. This revision is expected to increase their market share by 20%. UC's baby wipes are competing well for top position with Pijon products, but the postponed launch of flushable baby wipes may be disadvantageous for UC. In 1997, UC launched wet tissues for pet dogs. These are made of a thick nonwoven impregnated with deodorizing and anti-bacterial substances. (5 fig)
   Author: Anon
   Source: Nonwovens Rev.
   Issue: vol. 9, no. 4, Dec. 1998, pp 18-19 (In Japanese)

High-strength polypropylene fibre
Despite excellent processability, chemical-resistance and lightness, polypropylene fibre has poor fibre strength compared to other general resin fibres. Ube Nitto Kasei, Japan, has been working on this problem and has recently succeeded in manufacturing a high-strength polypropylene fibre. Ordinary isotactic polypropylene is used and melt spinning performed within normal spinning temperature range at speeds above several hundred m/min. Highly magnified roller drawing is possible under a temperature range higher than the crystallization dispersion temperature. Fibre strength greater than 10g/d can be achieved with a faster drawing speed than current types. Possible applications are ropes and nets requiring high strength and elasticity. Use for liquid filters for acid, alkali and paints is also appropriate due to excellent chemical-resistance. (2 fig, 3 tab)
   Author: Oota S
   Source: Nonwovens Rev.
   Issue: vol. 9, no. 4, Dec. 1998, pp 38-39 (In Japanese)

The development of spunbond biodegradable nonwoven
Shinwa, Japan, has recently launched a spunbonded biodegradable nonwoven, which is made from polylactic acid resin, Lactron, developed by Kanebo Gosen. Confirmed as compatible with the human body, polylactic acid is very safe as a raw material. When disposed of it decomposes into carbonic acid gas and water by a microorganism action in the earth or sea. No hazardous gases are created when incinerated and required calories for combustion are only a third or half of polyethylene or polypropylene. A wide range of applications is anticipated, including sanitary and household items, and agricultural and construction materials. Shinwa’s development of biodegradable nonwovens has started with spunbond, but development for thermalbond and spunlace types are also underway. (1 tab)
   Author: Anon
   Source: Jpn Nonwovens Rep.
   Issue: no. 11, 10 Nov. 1998, pp 27-28 (In Japanese)

Development of range of biodegradable materials
Unichika, Japan, has recently developed “Terramac,” a range of biodegradable materials including sheets, films, fibres and spunbond. Unichika has worked on the development of naturally recyclable materials for about 10 years, and in collaboration with world-leading polylactic acid manufacturer, Cargill-Daw Polymers, they have transformed biodegradable raw material of polylactic acid into various product forms using original molding technology. A number of characters and potential properties of polylactic acid were drawn out during processing and added to each product of Terramac. Uses in agriculture, horticulture, construction, fishery, food sector and sanitary and household items are anticipated. Unichika plans for a 5,000t production scale in 3 years and 16,000t in 5 years for its Terramac products.
   Author: Anon
   Source: Jpn Nonwovens Rep.
   Issue: no. 11, 10 Nov. 1998, p. 28 (In Japanese)

Surface modification of aramid fibers to improve composite adhesion by plasma treatment
P-aramid fibres are suitable as reinforcement fibres for high-performance composites because of their low density, increased elongation at rupture compared with steel wire, and high decomposition temperature. Their molecular structure governs their high chemical and mechanical resistance. Low fibre-matrix adhesion can be improved by treating the aramid fibres with plasma, which causes better moistening of the aramid fibres opposite to the epoxide matrix during composite manufacture. Etching and cleaning plasmas and plasma polymerization have been investigated. Optimum composite strength is achieved when all fibres are completely embedded in the matrix. (Short article)
   Author: Bechter D; St Berndt R; Oppermann W
   Source: Tech. Text.
   Issue: vol. 42, no. 1, Feb. 1999, p. E2

Effect of loading rate on the mechanical behavior of fiber glass mat/epoxy composite
Glass fibre mat/epoxy composites were tested to assess effect of loading rates on their performance. Loading rates were investigated in a range of 10, 50 and 250mm/min, and fracture behaviour of the laminated composites was determined using a fibre/matrix interface. Short beam bend and three point bend tests showed cracks occurring on the composite surfaces during loading, a process which would most likely be controlled by weak links such as poor fibre/matrix interfacial adhesion. Tensile strength of the composites decreased with increase of loading rate, probably due to voids in the matrix and at the interfaces. Interfacial shear strength did not display a significant loading rate dependence, while flexural strength was found to increase with loading rate. (4 tab)
   Author: Bayram A; Yaziki M; Korkmaz B
   Source: Tech. Text.
   Issue: vol. 42, no. 1, Feb. 1999, pp E3-E5

Polyester staple fibre from Toyobo has high moisture absorption
Osaka-based Toyobo Co Ltd has developed a polyester staple fibre that has a 10% rate of moisture absorption. This is compared to conventional polyester staple, which has a rate of absorption of only 0.4%, climbing to about 1% with the application of special finishes. By using a chemical treatment, Toyobo has made its polyester even more absorbent than cotton. Further, cotton fibres tend to retain the moisture they absorb, but Toyobo’s polyester quickly releases it. The fibre’s hollow structure also retains warmth. Quilt fillings will be the principal application, (1 ref) (Short article)
   Author: Anon
   Source: New Mater. Jpn
   Issue: Apr. 1999, pp 6-7

Tie-up for superabsorbent fibre products agreed by Kanebo Gohsen
Kanebo Gohsen of Osaka will expand production of its highly water-absorbent fibre Bell Oasis. Japanese manufacturers Nippon Felt and Hattori Takeshi will develop industrial products, such as filters and medical items, and full-scale projects have already been initiated. Bell Oasis is a highly water- and moisture-absorbent fibre based on a proprietary acrylic polymer. It can absorb up to 80 times its own weight of water, and is heat resistant up to 150 deg C. (1 ref) (Short article)
   Author: Anon
   Source: New Mater. Jpn
   Issue: Apr. 1999, p. 7

Injection molding of natural fibre-reinforced polypropylene
Research into the use of natural fibres, as a replacement for glass fibres, in the reinforcement of injection molded polypropylene parts is described. Compromises need to be made on heat resistance but flax and low-THC hemp strains can offer price advantages over glass in the medium loading range. Fibre-matrix adhesion, compounding concerns such as hygroscopic properties, rheology, mechanical properties and special features are described.
   Author: Aurig T; Mennig G
   Source: Kunstst. Plast Eur.
   Issue: Kunstst. Plast. Eur. vol. 89, no. 3, Mar. 1999, pp 6-7, 30-32

Low foaming spin finishes
Low foaming is a new requirement for spin finishes, to aid processes such as hydroentanglement. The antistat component of the finish contributes highly to foaming but is a necessary ingredient, especially in high speed carding. Work has been directed at a target of no foam measurable after one minute, which is tested by means such as the perforated disc method. Hansa Textilchemie GmbH of Oyten, Germany uses a method where fibres are placed in a beaker and covered with distilled water, to determine the foaming qualities of the resulting liquor. Standardized tests are of further importance for products intended for hygiene and medical uses, to avoid skin irritation.
   Author: Niestegge R
   Source: Tech. Text.
   Issue: vol. 42, no. 2, Apr. 1999, pp E22-E23

Outer textile linings for cars: an innovation
The need to improve function, reduce costs and consider environmental implications is causing car manufacturers to change to new materials. Needle and pile floor carpets (NFC-PFC) fitted in the outer linings offer improvements in acoustic effect and lower weight, leading to reduced fuel consumption. Their porous structure minimizes noise from water on the road and reduces spray, while giving elastic protection against stone impact. They display positive characteristics in water absorption, drying behaviour, mechanical stability and strength, resistance to abrasion, tearing and weather, cleaning ability, assembly, endurance and recycling. The characteristics of a wheel-case lining, which may be adapted for different car types, are analyzed according to DIN 61210. (2 tab)
   Author: Elsele D
   Source: Tech. Text.
   Issue: vol. 42, no. 2, Apr. 1999, pp E28-E29

1,000 frames per second: revealing the secrets of meltblown nonwovens
Meltblowing is a sophisticated process that produces microfibres of under 10 microns in diameter which are condensed into a nonwoven web. Research into establishing the process factors affecting quality and into controlling the process itself has resulted in the formation of blur-free, freeze-frame and slow motion film images during production. Acceleration, velocity, diameter, orientation and entanglement of fibres as a function of distance from the die orifice can now be measured by newly developed equipment. High-speed single exposures and multiple exposures are achievable with a high-speed LSI 1000 pulsed laser from Oxford Lasers. The processing variables identified so far are air pressure, die-to-collector distance between which significant acceleration and velocity changes take place, and collector surface speed.
   Author: Lennox-Kerr P
   Source: Tech. Text.
   Issue: vol. 42, no. 2, Apr. 1999, pp E30-E31

Development of nonwovens
Within the nonwoven industry in India great potential exists for Indian companies to expand their activities into new applications through more research and development, greater customer awareness and faster production. The nonwoven process and web formation are explained and properties listed which can be obtained with the use of binders. The thermal, spun and self-bonded processes are described and a comprehensive list of nonwoven end products supplied. Principal fibres are covered, and statistical background on market growth (1994-2000) globally and process technologies used (1993 estimate) is given. Nonwoven consumption is low in India through lack of good quality raw materials and a heavy import duty structure for binders, but there is considerable potential for further development of the industry. (2 tab, 6 ref)
   Author: Shiva Prakesh A V
   Source: Indian Text. J.
   Issue: vol. 109, no. 4, Jan. 1999, pp 26-27

R and D trends: 1997 science and technology spending, Y15,741,500m highest ever showing a steady increase in the past three years
In Japan 1997 science and technology spending was highest ever at Y15,741,500m, a 4.4% (Y662,200m) increase on 1996. Industry was the most active area (Y10,658,400m, 6.1% increase), followed by universities (Y3,059,200m, 1.5% increase) and public institutes (Y2,023,900m, 0.8% increase). Research trends were application and product development orientated, with basic research being suppressed slightly (13.8% of total research, 0.3% negative growth). For the first time female researchers numbered over 10% of total researchers in 1997. The aims of the Technical Licensing Organization (TLO) are also discussed.
   Author: Anon
   Source: Jpn Nonwovens Rep.
   Issue: no. 2, Feb. 1999, p. 27 (In Japanese)

Product introduction: vinylon chopped fibre nonwoven, VM Melt, from Japan Vilene Co Ltd, a new material as an alternative to glass fibre fabric
Japan Vilene Co Ltd and Dainippon Ink KK have developed VM Melt from vinylon chopped strand fibre. It has been used as an alternative to glass-based materials for the water tanks of the Takehara Power Station (Hiroshima, Japan) and owing to its superb performance including chemical resistance, water resistance and mechanical strength under 5,000V testing, together with its ability to be converted it is now also being used as a surface protection material for concrete. Unlike the glass-based product, this product does not generate harmful particles during construction. The target sales in the first year are Y100m, and Y600m in three years. The vinylon mat complex (patent pending), combining the surface material and VM Melt, is also available. (1 fig)

   Author: Anon
   Source: Jpn Nonwovens Rep.
   Issue: no. 3, Mar. 1999, p. 20 (In Japanese)

JNR prospects: amorphous carbon fibre nonwoven, dream for its development and commercialization
Amorphous metal has now reached the commercial application stage after 20 years research and development. This metal is the essential element for the success of the electric vehicle (EV) and hybrid-car. Amorphous carbon nano-fibre was first reported in January 1999, by Kogyo Gijyutsuinn, and nonwoven development using this fibre is anticipated. Once this task is achieved, the application of amorphous carbon nano-fibre nonwoven to the EV will be welcomed by the car industry, since the weight reduction of the car battery, by replacing amorphous metal with a nonwoven, is significant, and this will contribute to improving the practicality of the EV.
   Author: Shimizu T
   Source: Jpn Nonwovens Rep.
   Issue: no. 3, Mar. 1999, pp 24-25 (In Japanese)

Special edition, liquid filter: current status and prospect of nonwoven filter for blood treatment
The necessity of blood treatment filters for the removal of leukocytes is widely recognized to ensure safe blood transfusion: 95% of these filters are polyester nonwoven based products. In addition to the separation performance determined by fibre diameter, as a medical product these filters have to meet tight regulations. Blood for urgent surgical needs is mainly used untreated as a new closed type system, in which a filter is integrated in the bleeding bag, will circumvent this problem. Nonwoven filters for uses other than leukocyte removal from blood transfusion is currently limited: filters for bone marrow treatment and for in vitro blood circulation treatment are showing potential. (9 fig, 4 tab)
   Author: Kaneko M
   Source: Jpn Nonwovens Rep.
   Issue: no. 4, Apr. 1999, pp 9-13

R&D trends: The nonwovens industry and SBIR (the Small Business Innovation Research) support system, positive outcomes expected
The SBIR (Small Business Innovation Research) support program was introduced in Japan in 1999 with a Y1,600m national budget. SBIR is attracting interest from small and middle sized companies. A questionnaire carried out by Nikkei Newspaper indicated that SBIR is a priority interest for 64% of those companies questioned. The program includes financial support for the research and development projects. It is recommended that to become truly high-tech, the nonwoven industry should utilize this system.
   Author: Anon
   Source: Jpn Nonwovens Rep.
   Issue: no. 4, Apr. 1999, p. 17 (In Japanese)

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