Application of Nanofiber Nonwoven Fabrics via Mass Production Electrospinning

Abstract

Nanofibers via electrospinning can be used in a variety of applications such as filtering membranes, functional coating, breathable fabrics and medical devices. The purpose of this study is to analyze the mechanical properties of nanofiber nonwoven fabrics as a lining cloth for outdoor wear and air filter media. The specimens are three kinds of PU (polyurethane) nanofiber nonwoven fabrics for breathable fabric and nonwoven fabric coated by nanofiber. To investigate the characteristic as a breathable fabric, waterproof function and air permeability were measured. In addition, pore size and fiber diameter, which were related to vapor permeability and air permeability, were observed in a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Correlation between the pore size and the permeability has been examined. Tensile property, which was important factor as a lining cloth, was also tested. All mechanical properties were compared with Gore-tex’s mechanical properties. To evaluate air filter, air permeability, pressure drop and efficiency were tested. As a result, it could be known that the nanofiber nonwoven fabrics had suitable condition as a lining cloth and air filter. Especially, the air permeability was very well. This study indicated some feasibility that nanofiber nonwoven fabric can be used in lining cloth and air filter, instead of conventional breathable fabric or air filter.