Effects of selected fiber properties and needlepunch density on thermally-treated nonwoven fabrics

Abstract

The effects of polypropylene fiber length, polyethylene binder fiber concentration and needlepunch density on the physical properties and appearance of thermally-treated needlepunched nonwoven fabrics that are normally used for side panels, truck lines, rear shelf liner and seat backing in automobiles have been studied. It is observed that tensile and shrinkage properties are significantly affected by fiber length, polyethylene content and needling density. The presence of polyethylene binder fibers causes significant improvement in fabric appearance after abrasion.