Meltblown non woven fabric has become a household name, especially after the COVID - 19 pandemic, due to its extensive use in the production of face masks. As a supplier of meltblown non woven fabric, I've been constantly asked about its biodegradability and how it stacks up against other materials. In this blog, I'll delve into the biodegradability of meltblown non woven fabric and compare it with some commonly used materials.
Understanding Meltblown Non Woven Fabric
Meltblown non woven fabric is typically made from polypropylene (PP). The manufacturing process involves extruding molten polymer through tiny nozzles and then using high - velocity hot air to attenuate the fibers into fine filaments. These filaments are then randomly deposited on a collecting surface to form a web - like structure. This fabric is highly valued for its high filtration efficiency, low pressure drop, and softness, which makes it ideal for applications such as air and liquid filtration, medical masks, and hygiene products.
However, when it comes to biodegradability, polypropylene, the main component of meltblown non woven fabric, poses some challenges. Polypropylene is a synthetic polymer, and under normal environmental conditions, it is very resistant to degradation. The carbon - carbon bonds in polypropylene are strong, and natural microorganisms in the environment do not have the enzymes necessary to break them down efficiently.
Biodegradability of Meltblown Non Woven Fabric
The biodegradation of meltblown non woven fabric is a slow process. In a landfill environment, where oxygen is limited, polypropylene can take hundreds of years to decompose. Even in aerobic environments, the degradation rate is extremely slow. Some studies suggest that it may take decades for significant degradation to occur, and complete decomposition can be nearly impossible under natural conditions.
The slow biodegradability of meltblown non woven fabric has raised environmental concerns, especially considering the large amounts of single - use masks and other products made from this material that end up in landfills or as litter. There have been efforts to develop more biodegradable alternatives or to improve the biodegradability of polypropylene - based materials. For example, some researchers are exploring the use of additives that can accelerate the degradation process by making the polymer more susceptible to oxidation and microbial attack.
Comparison with Other Materials
Polypropylene Spunbond Non Woven Fabric
Polypropylene Spunbond Non Woven Fabric is another type of non woven fabric made from polypropylene. Similar to meltblown non woven fabric, it also has poor biodegradability. The manufacturing process of spunbond non woven fabric involves extruding molten polymer into continuous filaments, which are then laid down on a conveyor belt and bonded together.
The main difference between meltblown and spunbond non woven fabrics lies in the fiber diameter and structure. Meltblown fibers are much finer, which gives it better filtration properties. But in terms of biodegradability, they are on par. Both are made of polypropylene and face the same challenges of slow degradation in the environment.
Print Non Woven Fabric
Print Non Woven Fabric can be made from various materials, including polypropylene. If it is polypropylene - based, its biodegradability will be similar to that of meltblown and spunbond non woven fabrics. However, if it is made from natural fibers such as cotton or bamboo, the situation is quite different.
Natural fibers are biodegradable. Cotton, for example, is composed mainly of cellulose, which is a polymer that can be easily broken down by microorganisms in the soil. Bamboo fibers also have good biodegradability. These natural - fiber - based print non woven fabrics can decompose within a few months to a few years, depending on environmental conditions such as temperature, humidity, and the presence of microorganisms.
Non Woven Fabric for Surgical Gown
Non Woven Fabric for Surgical Gown is often made from a combination of materials, with polypropylene being a common choice due to its barrier properties. Similar to meltblown non woven fabric, polypropylene - based surgical gown non woven fabric has poor biodegradability.
On the other hand, there are also surgical gowns made from biodegradable materials such as polylactic acid (PLA). PLA is a biodegradable thermoplastic polyester derived from renewable resources such as corn starch or sugarcane. It can break down into lactic acid, which is then further metabolized by microorganisms in the environment. In a composting environment, PLA - based non woven fabric for surgical gowns can degrade within a few months.
Environmental Impact and Solutions
The slow biodegradability of meltblown non woven fabric and other polypropylene - based non woven materials has a significant environmental impact. The accumulation of these materials in landfills and the environment contributes to pollution and waste management problems. To address these issues, several solutions can be considered.
One approach is to promote recycling. Although recycling polypropylene non woven fabrics is challenging due to their complex structure and the presence of other contaminants, some recycling technologies are being developed. Another solution is to encourage the use of biodegradable alternatives. As a supplier, I am actively researching and exploring opportunities to offer more sustainable products, such as non woven fabrics made from biodegradable polymers or natural fibers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, meltblown non woven fabric, mainly made of polypropylene, has poor biodegradability compared to natural fibers and some biodegradable polymers. While it offers excellent performance in terms of filtration and other applications, its environmental impact cannot be ignored. When compared with Polypropylene Spunbond Non Woven Fabric, Print Non Woven Fabric, and Non Woven Fabric for Surgical Gown, the differences in biodegradability depend on the base materials used.
As a supplier of meltblown non woven fabric, I am committed to working towards more sustainable solutions. Whether you are looking for high - quality meltblown non woven fabric for your specific applications or interested in exploring more environmentally friendly options, I would be more than happy to discuss your needs. Contact me to start a conversation about your procurement requirements and let's find the best solution together.
References
- "Biodegradation of Synthetic Polymers in the Environment", Environmental Science & Technology
- "Nonwoven Fabric Handbook", Woodhead Publishing
- "A Review on the Biodegradability of Polypropylene and Its Composites", Polymer Degradation and Stability