Starched spunlace nonwoven fabrics can indeed have good tensile strength, depending on several factors such as the type of fibers used, the manufacturing process, and the specific starching technique applied. Let's break down some key points:
Fiber Type: The choice of fibers used in the nonwoven fabric plays a significant role in determining its tensile strength. Natural fibers like cotton or cellulose-based fibers tend to have good tensile strength, especially when they are well-processed and spun into the fabric.
Manufacturing Process: Spunlace nonwoven fabrics are typically made by entangling fibers mechanically or hydro-entangling them with high-pressure water jets. This process can create a strong bond between fibers, contributing to the fabric's tensile strength.
Starching: Starching is a post-processing technique where starch-based solutions are applied to the nonwoven fabric and then dried to add stiffness and strength. The effectiveness of starching can vary based on the type of starch used, the concentration, and the application method. When done correctly, starching can improve tensile strength.
Quality Control: Proper quality control measures during manufacturing are essential to ensure consistent tensile strength in the final product. This includes maintaining the right fiber alignment, uniform application of starch, and controlling the drying process.
Intended Use: The required tensile strength of the nonwoven fabric depends on its intended use. Fabrics intended for heavy-duty applications, like industrial wipes or automotive filters, will need higher tensile strength compared to fabrics used in disposable medical gowns.
Testing: Tensile strength is typically measured using standardized testing methods, such as ASTM D5035 or ISO 9073-3. These tests help assess how much force a fabric can withstand before breaking.
While starched spunlace nonwoven fabrics have the potential to exhibit good tensile strength, achieving it depends on several factors, including the choice of fibers, manufacturing process, starching technique, and quality control. Manufacturers can tailor these factors to meet the specific requirements of their intended applications.