4 - Nonwoven materials and technologies for medical applications

Abstract

Nonwoven materials (NMs) for medical applications offer numerous advantages both with regard to user requirements and material properties. They guarantee the safety of patients and medical staff because of their superior levels of infection control, sterility and efficiency. Shorter production cycles, higher flexibility and versatility and lower production costs are some of the reasons for the popularity of NMs in medical applications. During the past several years, drylaid, meltblowing, spunbonding, hydroentangling, airlaying and carding, thermal bonding, needlepunching have become important technologies for the formation of NMs for medical applications. The present chapter discusses the key issues, main types and technologies, strengths and limitations of NMs for medical applications and the entire product range covering wound care products, medical gauze, wadding, surgical gowns, surgical caps, surgical masks, drapes and cover cloths, clothing, incontinence products, feminine hygiene products, diapers, wipes, etc. Future innovations, such as accelerators, are also discussed.