1999 - Volume 2 - Journal of Engineered Fibers and Fabrics

Worldwide Abstracts and Reviews
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.
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