As a supplier of PE laminated non woven fabric, I often encounter various questions from customers regarding the properties and durability of our products. One common concern is about the solvents that can potentially damage PE laminated non woven fabric. In this blog post, I will delve into this topic, exploring the types of solvents that pose a threat to our fabric and the reasons behind the damage.
Understanding PE Laminated Non Woven Fabric
Before we discuss the solvents, let's briefly understand what PE laminated non woven fabric is. It is a composite material made by laminating a polyethylene (PE) film onto a non woven fabric substrate. The non woven fabric provides strength and durability, while the PE film adds moisture resistance, barrier properties, and a smooth surface finish. This combination makes PE laminated non woven fabric suitable for a wide range of applications, including Coated Non Woven Fabric For Construction, packaging, agriculture, and hygiene products.
Solvents and Their Effects on PE Laminated Non Woven Fabric
Solvents are substances that can dissolve other materials. When a solvent comes into contact with PE laminated non woven fabric, it can cause several types of damage, including swelling, softening, delamination, and chemical degradation. The extent of the damage depends on several factors, such as the type of solvent, the concentration, the temperature, and the duration of exposure.
Organic Solvents
Organic solvents are carbon-based compounds that are commonly used in industrial processes, cleaning agents, and paints. Some of the organic solvents that can damage PE laminated non woven fabric include:
- Aromatic Hydrocarbons: Benzene, toluene, and xylene are examples of aromatic hydrocarbons. These solvents have a strong dissolving power and can easily penetrate the PE film and the non woven fabric. They can cause swelling and softening of the fabric, leading to a loss of strength and integrity. Prolonged exposure to aromatic hydrocarbons can also cause chemical degradation of the PE film, resulting in a change in color and a reduction in barrier properties.
- Chlorinated Hydrocarbons: Chlorinated solvents, such as chloroform, carbon tetrachloride, and trichloroethylene, are known for their excellent cleaning properties. However, they are also highly toxic and can cause significant damage to PE laminated non woven fabric. Chlorinated hydrocarbons can dissolve the PE film and the non woven fabric, leading to delamination and a complete loss of functionality.
- Ketones: Acetone and methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) are common ketones used in the industry. These solvents have a high evaporation rate and can quickly dissolve the PE film. They can cause swelling and softening of the fabric, making it more susceptible to tearing and puncturing. In addition, ketones can react with the non woven fabric, causing discoloration and a reduction in strength.
Alcohols
Alcohols are another type of solvent that can affect PE laminated non woven fabric. While they are generally less aggressive than organic solvents, they can still cause damage under certain conditions. For example, high concentrations of ethanol or isopropyl alcohol can cause swelling and softening of the PE film, leading to a loss of barrier properties. In addition, alcohols can react with the non woven fabric, causing a change in color and a reduction in strength.
Water-Based Solvents
Water-based solvents, such as detergents and cleaning solutions, are often considered to be less harmful to PE laminated non woven fabric. However, they can still cause damage if they contain harsh chemicals or additives. For example, some detergents may contain surfactants or enzymes that can break down the PE film and the non woven fabric. In addition, prolonged exposure to water can cause swelling and delamination of the fabric, especially if it is not properly dried.
Preventing Solvent Damage
To prevent solvent damage to PE laminated non woven fabric, it is important to take appropriate precautions. Here are some tips:
- Choose the Right Fabric: When selecting PE laminated non woven fabric for a specific application, consider the potential exposure to solvents. Choose a fabric that is resistant to the solvents that are likely to be encountered. For example, if the fabric will be used in a chemical environment, look for a fabric with a high chemical resistance rating.
- Use Protective Coatings: Applying a protective coating to the PE laminated non woven fabric can help to reduce the risk of solvent damage. There are several types of protective coatings available, such as polyurethane coatings, epoxy coatings, and silicone coatings. These coatings can provide an additional barrier between the fabric and the solvents, preventing them from penetrating the surface.
- Avoid Direct Contact: Whenever possible, avoid direct contact between the PE laminated non woven fabric and solvents. If contact is unavoidable, use appropriate protective equipment, such as gloves and goggles, to minimize the risk of exposure. In addition, ensure that the fabric is properly cleaned and dried after contact with solvents to prevent any residual damage.
- Store the Fabric Properly: Proper storage of PE laminated non woven fabric is essential to prevent solvent damage. Store the fabric in a cool, dry place away from sources of heat and direct sunlight. Avoid storing the fabric near solvents or other chemicals that could potentially cause damage.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are several solvents that can damage PE laminated non woven fabric, including organic solvents, alcohols, and water-based solvents. The extent of the damage depends on several factors, such as the type of solvent, the concentration, the temperature, and the duration of exposure. To prevent solvent damage, it is important to choose the right fabric, use protective coatings, avoid direct contact, and store the fabric properly.
If you are interested in purchasing high-quality PE laminated non woven fabric for your specific application, please feel free to contact us for more information. We offer a wide range of PE film coated pp non woven and Antistatic PE Laminated PP Nonwoven products that are designed to meet your requirements. Our team of experts is always ready to assist you in finding the best solution for your needs.
References
- "Polyethylene Films: Structure, Processing, and Applications" by L. A. Utracki
- "Nonwovens: An Introduction" by S. S. Ramkumar and S. K. Yoon
- "Solvents and Solvent Effects in Organic Chemistry" by Christian Reichardt