US20060260736A1 - Method of making a dual performance nonwoven and the products therefrom - Google Patents
Method of making a dual performance nonwoven and the products therefrom Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20060260736A1 US20060260736A1 US11/439,738 US43973806A US2006260736A1 US 20060260736 A1 US20060260736 A1 US 20060260736A1 US 43973806 A US43973806 A US 43973806A US 2006260736 A1 US2006260736 A1 US 2006260736A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- web
- absorbent
- laminate
- precursor
- opposing
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
- B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
- B32B5/00—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts
- B32B5/22—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts characterised by the presence of two or more layers which are next to each other and are fibrous, filamentary, formed of particles or foamed
- B32B5/24—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts characterised by the presence of two or more layers which are next to each other and are fibrous, filamentary, formed of particles or foamed one layer being a fibrous or filamentary layer
- B32B5/26—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts characterised by the presence of two or more layers which are next to each other and are fibrous, filamentary, formed of particles or foamed one layer being a fibrous or filamentary layer another layer next to it also being fibrous or filamentary
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L13/00—Implements for cleaning floors, carpets, furniture, walls, or wall coverings
- A47L13/10—Scrubbing; Scouring; Cleaning; Polishing
- A47L13/16—Cloths; Pads; Sponges
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
- B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
- B32B27/00—Layered products comprising a layer of synthetic resin
- B32B27/32—Layered products comprising a layer of synthetic resin comprising polyolefins
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
- B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
- B32B27/00—Layered products comprising a layer of synthetic resin
- B32B27/34—Layered products comprising a layer of synthetic resin comprising polyamides
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
- B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
- B32B27/00—Layered products comprising a layer of synthetic resin
- B32B27/36—Layered products comprising a layer of synthetic resin comprising polyesters
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
- B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
- B32B37/00—Methods or apparatus for laminating, e.g. by curing or by ultrasonic bonding
- B32B37/14—Methods or apparatus for laminating, e.g. by curing or by ultrasonic bonding characterised by the properties of the layers
- B32B37/15—Methods or apparatus for laminating, e.g. by curing or by ultrasonic bonding characterised by the properties of the layers with at least one layer being manufactured and immediately laminated before reaching its stable state, e.g. in which a layer is extruded and laminated while in semi-molten state
- B32B37/153—Methods or apparatus for laminating, e.g. by curing or by ultrasonic bonding characterised by the properties of the layers with at least one layer being manufactured and immediately laminated before reaching its stable state, e.g. in which a layer is extruded and laminated while in semi-molten state at least one layer is extruded and immediately laminated while in semi-molten state
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
- B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
- B32B5/00—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts
- B32B5/02—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts characterised by structural features of a fibrous or filamentary layer
- B32B5/022—Non-woven fabric
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
- B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
- B32B5/00—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts
- B32B5/22—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts characterised by the presence of two or more layers which are next to each other and are fibrous, filamentary, formed of particles or foamed
- B32B5/24—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts characterised by the presence of two or more layers which are next to each other and are fibrous, filamentary, formed of particles or foamed one layer being a fibrous or filamentary layer
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
- B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
- B32B7/00—Layered products characterised by the relation between layers; Layered products characterised by the relative orientation of features between layers, or by the relative values of a measurable parameter between layers, i.e. products comprising layers having different physical, chemical or physicochemical properties; Layered products characterised by the interconnection of layers
- B32B7/04—Interconnection of layers
- B32B7/12—Interconnection of layers using interposed adhesives or interposed materials with bonding properties
-
- D—TEXTILES; PAPER
- D04—BRAIDING; LACE-MAKING; KNITTING; TRIMMINGS; NON-WOVEN FABRICS
- D04H—MAKING TEXTILE FABRICS, e.g. FROM FIBRES OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL; FABRICS MADE BY SUCH PROCESSES OR APPARATUS, e.g. FELTS, NON-WOVEN FABRICS; COTTON-WOOL; WADDING ; NON-WOVEN FABRICS FROM STAPLE FIBRES, FILAMENTS OR YARNS, BONDED WITH AT LEAST ONE WEB-LIKE MATERIAL DURING THEIR CONSOLIDATION
- D04H1/00—Non-woven fabrics formed wholly or mainly of staple fibres or like relatively short fibres
- D04H1/40—Non-woven fabrics formed wholly or mainly of staple fibres or like relatively short fibres from fleeces or layers composed of fibres without existing or potential cohesive properties
- D04H1/42—Non-woven fabrics formed wholly or mainly of staple fibres or like relatively short fibres from fleeces or layers composed of fibres without existing or potential cohesive properties characterised by the use of certain kinds of fibres insofar as this use has no preponderant influence on the consolidation of the fleece
- D04H1/4374—Non-woven fabrics formed wholly or mainly of staple fibres or like relatively short fibres from fleeces or layers composed of fibres without existing or potential cohesive properties characterised by the use of certain kinds of fibres insofar as this use has no preponderant influence on the consolidation of the fleece using different kinds of webs, e.g. by layering webs
-
- D—TEXTILES; PAPER
- D04—BRAIDING; LACE-MAKING; KNITTING; TRIMMINGS; NON-WOVEN FABRICS
- D04H—MAKING TEXTILE FABRICS, e.g. FROM FIBRES OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL; FABRICS MADE BY SUCH PROCESSES OR APPARATUS, e.g. FELTS, NON-WOVEN FABRICS; COTTON-WOOL; WADDING ; NON-WOVEN FABRICS FROM STAPLE FIBRES, FILAMENTS OR YARNS, BONDED WITH AT LEAST ONE WEB-LIKE MATERIAL DURING THEIR CONSOLIDATION
- D04H1/00—Non-woven fabrics formed wholly or mainly of staple fibres or like relatively short fibres
- D04H1/40—Non-woven fabrics formed wholly or mainly of staple fibres or like relatively short fibres from fleeces or layers composed of fibres without existing or potential cohesive properties
- D04H1/44—Non-woven fabrics formed wholly or mainly of staple fibres or like relatively short fibres from fleeces or layers composed of fibres without existing or potential cohesive properties the fleeces or layers being consolidated by mechanical means, e.g. by rolling
- D04H1/46—Non-woven fabrics formed wholly or mainly of staple fibres or like relatively short fibres from fleeces or layers composed of fibres without existing or potential cohesive properties the fleeces or layers being consolidated by mechanical means, e.g. by rolling by needling or like operations to cause entanglement of fibres
-
- D—TEXTILES; PAPER
- D04—BRAIDING; LACE-MAKING; KNITTING; TRIMMINGS; NON-WOVEN FABRICS
- D04H—MAKING TEXTILE FABRICS, e.g. FROM FIBRES OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL; FABRICS MADE BY SUCH PROCESSES OR APPARATUS, e.g. FELTS, NON-WOVEN FABRICS; COTTON-WOOL; WADDING ; NON-WOVEN FABRICS FROM STAPLE FIBRES, FILAMENTS OR YARNS, BONDED WITH AT LEAST ONE WEB-LIKE MATERIAL DURING THEIR CONSOLIDATION
- D04H1/00—Non-woven fabrics formed wholly or mainly of staple fibres or like relatively short fibres
- D04H1/40—Non-woven fabrics formed wholly or mainly of staple fibres or like relatively short fibres from fleeces or layers composed of fibres without existing or potential cohesive properties
- D04H1/44—Non-woven fabrics formed wholly or mainly of staple fibres or like relatively short fibres from fleeces or layers composed of fibres without existing or potential cohesive properties the fleeces or layers being consolidated by mechanical means, e.g. by rolling
- D04H1/46—Non-woven fabrics formed wholly or mainly of staple fibres or like relatively short fibres from fleeces or layers composed of fibres without existing or potential cohesive properties the fleeces or layers being consolidated by mechanical means, e.g. by rolling by needling or like operations to cause entanglement of fibres
- D04H1/492—Non-woven fabrics formed wholly or mainly of staple fibres or like relatively short fibres from fleeces or layers composed of fibres without existing or potential cohesive properties the fleeces or layers being consolidated by mechanical means, e.g. by rolling by needling or like operations to cause entanglement of fibres by fluid jet
- D04H1/495—Non-woven fabrics formed wholly or mainly of staple fibres or like relatively short fibres from fleeces or layers composed of fibres without existing or potential cohesive properties the fleeces or layers being consolidated by mechanical means, e.g. by rolling by needling or like operations to cause entanglement of fibres by fluid jet for formation of patterns, e.g. drilling or rearrangement
-
- D—TEXTILES; PAPER
- D04—BRAIDING; LACE-MAKING; KNITTING; TRIMMINGS; NON-WOVEN FABRICS
- D04H—MAKING TEXTILE FABRICS, e.g. FROM FIBRES OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL; FABRICS MADE BY SUCH PROCESSES OR APPARATUS, e.g. FELTS, NON-WOVEN FABRICS; COTTON-WOOL; WADDING ; NON-WOVEN FABRICS FROM STAPLE FIBRES, FILAMENTS OR YARNS, BONDED WITH AT LEAST ONE WEB-LIKE MATERIAL DURING THEIR CONSOLIDATION
- D04H1/00—Non-woven fabrics formed wholly or mainly of staple fibres or like relatively short fibres
- D04H1/40—Non-woven fabrics formed wholly or mainly of staple fibres or like relatively short fibres from fleeces or layers composed of fibres without existing or potential cohesive properties
- D04H1/44—Non-woven fabrics formed wholly or mainly of staple fibres or like relatively short fibres from fleeces or layers composed of fibres without existing or potential cohesive properties the fleeces or layers being consolidated by mechanical means, e.g. by rolling
- D04H1/46—Non-woven fabrics formed wholly or mainly of staple fibres or like relatively short fibres from fleeces or layers composed of fibres without existing or potential cohesive properties the fleeces or layers being consolidated by mechanical means, e.g. by rolling by needling or like operations to cause entanglement of fibres
- D04H1/498—Non-woven fabrics formed wholly or mainly of staple fibres or like relatively short fibres from fleeces or layers composed of fibres without existing or potential cohesive properties the fleeces or layers being consolidated by mechanical means, e.g. by rolling by needling or like operations to cause entanglement of fibres entanglement of layered webs
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45D—HAIRDRESSING OR SHAVING EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT FOR COSMETICS OR COSMETIC TREATMENTS, e.g. FOR MANICURING OR PEDICURING
- A45D2200/00—Details not otherwise provided for in A45D
- A45D2200/10—Details of applicators
- A45D2200/1009—Applicators comprising a pad, tissue, sponge, or the like
- A45D2200/1018—Applicators comprising a pad, tissue, sponge, or the like comprising a pad, i.e. a cushion-like mass of soft material, with or without gripping means
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45D—HAIRDRESSING OR SHAVING EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT FOR COSMETICS OR COSMETIC TREATMENTS, e.g. FOR MANICURING OR PEDICURING
- A45D2200/00—Details not otherwise provided for in A45D
- A45D2200/10—Details of applicators
- A45D2200/1009—Applicators comprising a pad, tissue, sponge, or the like
- A45D2200/1036—Applicators comprising a pad, tissue, sponge, or the like containing a cosmetic substance, e.g. impregnated with liquid or containing a soluble solid substance
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45D—HAIRDRESSING OR SHAVING EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT FOR COSMETICS OR COSMETIC TREATMENTS, e.g. FOR MANICURING OR PEDICURING
- A45D37/00—Sachet pads specially adapted for liquid toiletry or cosmetic substances
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
- B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
- B32B2250/00—Layers arrangement
- B32B2250/24—All layers being polymeric
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
- B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
- B32B2305/00—Condition, form or state of the layers or laminate
- B32B2305/10—Fibres of continuous length
- B32B2305/20—Fibres of continuous length in the form of a non-woven mat
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
- B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
- B32B2367/00—Polyesters, e.g. PET, i.e. polyethylene terephthalate
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
- B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
- B32B2377/00—Polyamides
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
- B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
- B32B2432/00—Cleaning articles, e.g. mops, wipes
Definitions
- the present invention relates generally to a cleaning laminate, and specifically to a dual performance cleaning laminate comprising two functionally diverse surfaces, wherein said laminate has an abrasive side that facilitates the process of loosening particulates, such as dust and dirt, and an opposing soft, absorbent side, such material being imminently suitable for application in cleaning and cleansing applications.
- FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic view of a forming apparatus for forming a nonwoven cleaning laminate in accordance with the principles of the present invention
- FIG. 2 is a photomicrograph of the abrasive side of the nonwoven cleaning laminate in practicing the present invention
- FIG. 3 is a photomicrograph of the soft, absorbent side of the nonwoven cleaning laminate in practicing the present invention.
- FIG. 4 is a photomicrograph on a macroscopic scale of the abrasive side of the nonwoven cleaning laminate in practicing the present invention.
- FIG. 5 is a photomicrograph on a macroscopic scale of the soft, absorbent side of the nonwoven cleaning laminate in practicing the present invention.
- the nonwoven laminate of the present invention is comprised of coarse denier meltblown filaments, wherein a spunbond resin is utilized with a conventional meltblown process so as to capture thicker filaments.
- the meltblown process utilizes a molten polymer is extruded under pressure through orifices in a spinneret or die.
- high velocity air impinges upon and entrains the filaments as they exit the die.
- the energy of this step is such that the formed filaments are greatly reduced in diameter and are fractured so that microfibers of finite length are produced.
- the process to form either a single layer or a multiple-layer fabric is continuous, that is, the process steps are uninterrupted from extrusion of the filaments to form the first layer until the bonded web is wound into a roll. Methods for producing these types of fabrics are described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,041,203, hereby incorporated by reference.
- the resultant filaments may be of various cross-sectional profiles, which are not considered a limitation to the practice of the present invention.
- a polypropylene spunbond resin commercially known as PP3155 made available by Exxon Chemical Company was utilized.
- the aforementioned resin had a 35 MFR and was extruded at an average die temperature of 562° Fahrenheit with an approximate throughput of 7.1 grams/hole/min. Further, the distance between the meltblown die and the collective surface was around the order of 19 inches.
- the resultant meltblown filaments have a denier between that of 5 and 50 microns.
- Suitable polymers that may be used in the meltblowing process of the present invention include those selected from the group consisting of polyolefins, polyesters, polyetheresters, and polyamide.
- the single polymeric resin can be compounded with various melt-additives, so as to assist with the processing conditions, enhance the performance of the web, or enhance the appearance of the web, such additives including, but not limited to thermal stabilizers, colorants, and aromatics.
- the dual purpose cleaning wipe of the present invention also comprises a soft, absorbent layer capable of picking up liquids and particulates.
- a nonwoven of this nature may be a fibrous nonwoven layer or a continuous filament nonwoven layer.
- continuous filament nonwoven fabric formation involves the practice of the spunbond process.
- a spunbond process involves supplying a molten polymer, which is then extruded under pressure through a large number of orifices in a plate known as a spinneret or die.
- the resulting continuous filaments are quenched and drawn by any of a number of methods, such as slot draw systems, attenuator guns, or Godet rolls.
- the continuous filaments are collected as a loose web upon a moving foraminous surface, such as a wire mesh conveyor belt.
- the subsequent webs are collected upon the uppermost surface of the previously formed web.
- the web is then at least temporarily consolidated, usually by means involving heat and pressure, such as by thermal point bonding.
- the web or layers of webs are passed between two hot metal rolls, one of which has an embossed pattern to impart and achieve the desired degree of point bonding, usually on the order of 10 to 40 percent of the overall surface area being so bonded.
- the fibers When staple fibers are utilized to form the absorbent nonwoven layer, the fibers may begin in a bundled form as a bale of compressed fibers.
- the bale In order to decompress the fibers, and render the fibers suitable for integration into a nonwoven fabric, the bale is bulk-fed into a number of fiber openers, such as a garnet, then into a card. The card further frees the fibers by the use of co-rotational and counter-rotational wire combs, then depositing the fibers into a lofty batt.
- the lofty batt of staple fibers can then optionally be subjected to fiber reorientation, such as by air-randomization and/or cross-lapping, depending upon the ultimate tensile properties of the resulting nonwoven fabric.
- the fibrous batt is integrated into a nonwoven fabric by application of suitable bonding means, including, but not limited to, use of adhesive binders, thermobonding by calender or through-air oven, and hydroentanglement
- the absorbent precursor web and the meltblown precursor web are juxtaposed and hydroentangled on a three-dimensional image transfer device.
- a three-dimensional image transfer device Such three-dimensional image transfer devices are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,098,764, which is hereby incorporated by reference.
- the two precursor webs may be advanced onto the three-dimensional image transfer device so that the meltblown precursor web is facing the hydraulic jets of the hydroentanglement process and the absorbent precursor web is in contact with the three-dimensional transfer device. Hydroentangling the precursor webs in this manner allows for the meltblown filaments to become more integrated into the absorbent precursor web. Further, the meltblown filaments fragment with the force of the water through the meltblown web. The resultant laminate is more drapeable due to the fragmented meltblown filaments.
- the absorbent precursor web and the meltblown precursor web are juxtaposed and hydroentangled on a three-dimensional image transfer device.
- the two precursor webs may be advanced onto the three-dimensional image transfer device so that the absorbent precursor web is facing the hydraulic jets of the hydroentanglement process and the meltblown web is in contact with the three-dimensional transfer device. Hydroentangling the precursor webs in this manner allows for the meltblown filaments to remain substantially more intact. The resultant laminate is stiffer due to minimal fragmentation of the meltblown filaments.
- meltblown filaments are extruded and collected directly onto the absorbent precursor web and then subsequently hydroentangled on a three-dimensional image transfer device.
- the dual performance nonwoven laminate may comprise an additional layer, including, but not limited to a microporous film, a supportive member, such as a spunbond or mesh scrim, or a barrier layer of sorts.
- the laminate may be comprised of apertures of varying shapes and sizes wherein the apertures extend either partially or entirely though the laminate.
- the laminate may optionally be impregnated with a cleaning agent or placed within a tub or other packaging means containing the desired cleaning agent.
- the dual performance cleaning laminate embodying the principles of the present invention are suitable as a dry or wet wipe substrate for cleaning both domestic and industrial surfaces, and further for use in skin/facial cleaning.
- the present nonwoven fabric wipe can be provided in forms that are suitable for use as a dry wipe to absorb liquid, and to provide extra scrubbing effect, as needed.
Abstract
The present invention is directed to a cleaning laminate, which comprises an abrasive side that facilitates loosening of particulates, such as dust and dirt, and an opposing, soft absorbent side. The laminate is formed by hydroentanglement on a three-dimensional image transfer device.
Description
- This application is a division of U.S. Ser. No. 10/657,439, filed Sep. 8, 2003, which claims the benefit of priority Provisional Application No. 60/408,658, filed Sep. 6, 2002, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.
- The present invention relates generally to a cleaning laminate, and specifically to a dual performance cleaning laminate comprising two functionally diverse surfaces, wherein said laminate has an abrasive side that facilitates the process of loosening particulates, such as dust and dirt, and an opposing soft, absorbent side, such material being imminently suitable for application in cleaning and cleansing applications.
-
FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic view of a forming apparatus for forming a nonwoven cleaning laminate in accordance with the principles of the present invention; -
FIG. 2 is a photomicrograph of the abrasive side of the nonwoven cleaning laminate in practicing the present invention; -
FIG. 3 is a photomicrograph of the soft, absorbent side of the nonwoven cleaning laminate in practicing the present invention; -
FIG. 4 is a photomicrograph on a macroscopic scale of the abrasive side of the nonwoven cleaning laminate in practicing the present invention; and -
FIG. 5 is a photomicrograph on a macroscopic scale of the soft, absorbent side of the nonwoven cleaning laminate in practicing the present invention. - While the present invention is susceptible of embodiment in various forms, there will hereinafter be described, presently preferred embodiments, with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification of the invention, and is not intended to limit the invention to the specific embodiments disclosed herein.
- The nonwoven laminate of the present invention is comprised of coarse denier meltblown filaments, wherein a spunbond resin is utilized with a conventional meltblown process so as to capture thicker filaments. In general, the meltblown process utilizes a molten polymer is extruded under pressure through orifices in a spinneret or die. Traditionally, high velocity air impinges upon and entrains the filaments as they exit the die. Usually the energy of this step is such that the formed filaments are greatly reduced in diameter and are fractured so that microfibers of finite length are produced. Utilizing a spunbond resin with a lower melt flow rate, as well as lowering the air pressure, however, allows the collected filaments to take on a thicker diameter, providing the overall collective web with a desirable coarse texture. The process to form either a single layer or a multiple-layer fabric is continuous, that is, the process steps are uninterrupted from extrusion of the filaments to form the first layer until the bonded web is wound into a roll. Methods for producing these types of fabrics are described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,041,203, hereby incorporated by reference. The resultant filaments may be of various cross-sectional profiles, which are not considered a limitation to the practice of the present invention.
- In a particular embodiment, a polypropylene spunbond resin, commercially known as PP3155 made available by Exxon Chemical Company was utilized. The aforementioned resin had a 35 MFR and was extruded at an average die temperature of 562° Fahrenheit with an approximate throughput of 7.1 grams/hole/min. Further, the distance between the meltblown die and the collective surface was around the order of 19 inches. The resultant meltblown filaments have a denier between that of 5 and 50 microns. Suitable polymers that may be used in the meltblowing process of the present invention include those selected from the group consisting of polyolefins, polyesters, polyetheresters, and polyamide.
- Optionally, prior to extrusion, the single polymeric resin can be compounded with various melt-additives, so as to assist with the processing conditions, enhance the performance of the web, or enhance the appearance of the web, such additives including, but not limited to thermal stabilizers, colorants, and aromatics.
- The dual purpose cleaning wipe of the present invention also comprises a soft, absorbent layer capable of picking up liquids and particulates. A nonwoven of this nature may be a fibrous nonwoven layer or a continuous filament nonwoven layer. In general, continuous filament nonwoven fabric formation involves the practice of the spunbond process. A spunbond process involves supplying a molten polymer, which is then extruded under pressure through a large number of orifices in a plate known as a spinneret or die. The resulting continuous filaments are quenched and drawn by any of a number of methods, such as slot draw systems, attenuator guns, or Godet rolls. The continuous filaments are collected as a loose web upon a moving foraminous surface, such as a wire mesh conveyor belt. When more than one spinneret is used in line for the purpose of forming a multi-layered fabric, the subsequent webs are collected upon the uppermost surface of the previously formed web. The web is then at least temporarily consolidated, usually by means involving heat and pressure, such as by thermal point bonding. Using this means, the web or layers of webs are passed between two hot metal rolls, one of which has an embossed pattern to impart and achieve the desired degree of point bonding, usually on the order of 10 to 40 percent of the overall surface area being so bonded.
- When staple fibers are utilized to form the absorbent nonwoven layer, the fibers may begin in a bundled form as a bale of compressed fibers. In order to decompress the fibers, and render the fibers suitable for integration into a nonwoven fabric, the bale is bulk-fed into a number of fiber openers, such as a garnet, then into a card. The card further frees the fibers by the use of co-rotational and counter-rotational wire combs, then depositing the fibers into a lofty batt. The lofty batt of staple fibers can then optionally be subjected to fiber reorientation, such as by air-randomization and/or cross-lapping, depending upon the ultimate tensile properties of the resulting nonwoven fabric. The fibrous batt is integrated into a nonwoven fabric by application of suitable bonding means, including, but not limited to, use of adhesive binders, thermobonding by calender or through-air oven, and hydroentanglement.
- In one embodiment, the absorbent precursor web and the meltblown precursor web are juxtaposed and hydroentangled on a three-dimensional image transfer device. Such three-dimensional image transfer devices are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,098,764, which is hereby incorporated by reference. The two precursor webs may be advanced onto the three-dimensional image transfer device so that the meltblown precursor web is facing the hydraulic jets of the hydroentanglement process and the absorbent precursor web is in contact with the three-dimensional transfer device. Hydroentangling the precursor webs in this manner allows for the meltblown filaments to become more integrated into the absorbent precursor web. Further, the meltblown filaments fragment with the force of the water through the meltblown web. The resultant laminate is more drapeable due to the fragmented meltblown filaments.
- In a second embodiment, the absorbent precursor web and the meltblown precursor web are juxtaposed and hydroentangled on a three-dimensional image transfer device. The two precursor webs may be advanced onto the three-dimensional image transfer device so that the absorbent precursor web is facing the hydraulic jets of the hydroentanglement process and the meltblown web is in contact with the three-dimensional transfer device. Hydroentangling the precursor webs in this manner allows for the meltblown filaments to remain substantially more intact. The resultant laminate is stiffer due to minimal fragmentation of the meltblown filaments.
- In a third embodiment, the meltblown filaments are extruded and collected directly onto the absorbent precursor web and then subsequently hydroentangled on a three-dimensional image transfer device.
- Optionally, the dual performance nonwoven laminate may comprise an additional layer, including, but not limited to a microporous film, a supportive member, such as a spunbond or mesh scrim, or a barrier layer of sorts. Further, the laminate may be comprised of apertures of varying shapes and sizes wherein the apertures extend either partially or entirely though the laminate. Further still, the laminate may optionally be impregnated with a cleaning agent or placed within a tub or other packaging means containing the desired cleaning agent.
- The dual performance cleaning laminate embodying the principles of the present invention are suitable as a dry or wet wipe substrate for cleaning both domestic and industrial surfaces, and further for use in skin/facial cleaning. The present nonwoven fabric wipe can be provided in forms that are suitable for use as a dry wipe to absorb liquid, and to provide extra scrubbing effect, as needed.
Claims (12)
1. A method of making a dual performance nonwoven laminate having an abrasive side and an opposing absorbent side comprising steps of:
a. providing an absorbent precursor web;
b. providing a polymeric resin that is usable in a spunbond process;
c. providing a three-dimensional image transfer device;
d. extruding said polymeric resin into meltblown filaments;
e. collecting said filaments onto said absorbent precursor web to form a laminate;
f. advancing said laminate onto said three-dimensional image transfer device wherein said filaments are facing hydraulic jets and said absorbent web is facing the three-dimensional image transfer device; and
hydroentangling said laminate so as to provide for a dual performance nonwoven laminate comprising an abrasive side and an opposing absorbent side.
2. A method of making a dual performance nonwoven laminate having an abrasive side and an opposing absorbent side comprising steps of:
a. providing an absorbent precursor web;
b. providing a three-dimensional image transfer device;
c. providing a meltblown precursor web solely made from resin usable in a spunbond process;
d. juxtaposing said absorbent precursor web with said precursor meltblown web;
e. advancing said precursor webs onto said three-dimensional transfer device wherein said meltblown web is facing hydraulic jets and said absorbent web is facing said three-dimensional transfer device; and
hydroentangling said precursor webs so as to provide for a dual performance nonwoven laminate comprising an abrasive side and an opposing absorbent side.
3. A method of making a dual performance nonwoven laminate having an abrasive side and an opposing absorbent side comprising steps of:
a. providing an absorbent precursor web;
b. providing a three-dimensional image transfer device;
c. providing a meltblown precursor web solely made from resin usable in a spunbond process;
d. juxtaposing said absorbent precursor web with said precursor meltblown web;
e. advancing said precursor webs onto said three-dimensional transfer device wherein said absorbent web is facing hydraulic jets and said meltblown web is facing said three-dimensional transfer device; and
hydroentangling said precursor webs so as to provide for a dual performance nonwoven laminate comprising an abrasive side and an opposing absorbent side.
4. (canceled)
5. (canceled)
6. (canceled)
7. A method of making a dual performance nonwoven laminate having an abrasive side and an opposing side according to claim 1 , wherein said method further comprises a step of impregnating said laminate with a cleaning agent.
8. A method of making a dual performance nonwoven laminate having an abrasive side and an opposing side according to claim 2 , wherein said method further comprises a step of impregnating said laminate with a cleaning agent.
9. A method of making a dual performance nonwoven laminate having an abrasive side and an opposing side according to claim 3 , wherein said method further comprises a step of impregnating said laminate with a cleaning agent.
10. A method of making a dual performance nonwoven laminate having an abrasive side and an opposing side according to claim 1 , wherein said absorbent web is selected from the group consisting of a continuous filament web, a carded, staple fiber web, and mixtures thereof.
11. A method of making a dual performance nonwoven laminate having an abrasive side and an opposing side according to claim 2 , wherein said absorbent web is selected from the group consisting of a continuous filament web, a carded, staple fiber web, and mixtures thereof.
12. A method of making a dual performance nonwoven laminate having an abrasive side and an opposing side according to claim 3 , wherein said absorbent web is selected from the group consisting of a continuous filament web, a carded, staple fiber web, and mixtures thereof.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/439,738 US20060260736A1 (en) | 2002-09-06 | 2006-05-23 | Method of making a dual performance nonwoven and the products therefrom |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US40865802P | 2002-09-06 | 2002-09-06 | |
US10/657,439 US20040128807A1 (en) | 2002-09-06 | 2003-09-08 | Method of making a dual performance nonwoven and the products therefrom |
US11/439,738 US20060260736A1 (en) | 2002-09-06 | 2006-05-23 | Method of making a dual performance nonwoven and the products therefrom |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/657,439 Division US20040128807A1 (en) | 2002-09-06 | 2003-09-08 | Method of making a dual performance nonwoven and the products therefrom |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20060260736A1 true US20060260736A1 (en) | 2006-11-23 |
Family
ID=31978652
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/657,439 Abandoned US20040128807A1 (en) | 2002-09-06 | 2003-09-08 | Method of making a dual performance nonwoven and the products therefrom |
US11/439,738 Abandoned US20060260736A1 (en) | 2002-09-06 | 2006-05-23 | Method of making a dual performance nonwoven and the products therefrom |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/657,439 Abandoned US20040128807A1 (en) | 2002-09-06 | 2003-09-08 | Method of making a dual performance nonwoven and the products therefrom |
Country Status (4)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US20040128807A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP1534507A1 (en) |
AU (1) | AU2003270403A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2004022333A1 (en) |
Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20040222552A1 (en) * | 2003-01-22 | 2004-11-11 | John Housler | Three-dimensional fabrics and films and the process for making the same |
WO2017039629A1 (en) * | 2015-08-31 | 2017-03-09 | Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc. | Low basis weight nonwoven web with visibly distinct patterns |
Families Citing this family (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20040255408A1 (en) * | 2003-02-07 | 2004-12-23 | Polymer Group, Inc. | Nonwoven cleaning substrate and method of use |
CA2522200A1 (en) * | 2003-04-07 | 2004-10-28 | Polymer Group, Inc. | Dual sided nonwoven cleaning articles |
CN1303935C (en) * | 2005-03-22 | 2007-03-14 | 东华大学 | Method for manufacturing clean-cloth with high moisture-conducting, endurable cotten-dacron composite superfine fiber terry |
US8021996B2 (en) * | 2008-12-23 | 2011-09-20 | Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc. | Nonwoven web and filter media containing partially split multicomponent fibers |
Citations (9)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4041203A (en) * | 1972-09-06 | 1977-08-09 | Kimberly-Clark Corporation | Nonwoven thermoplastic fabric |
US5098764A (en) * | 1990-03-12 | 1992-03-24 | Chicopee | Non-woven fabric and method and apparatus for making the same |
US5393599A (en) * | 1992-01-24 | 1995-02-28 | Fiberweb North America, Inc. | Composite nonwoven fabrics |
US5780369A (en) * | 1997-06-30 | 1998-07-14 | Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc. | Saturated cellulosic substrate |
US5804286A (en) * | 1995-11-22 | 1998-09-08 | Fiberweb North America, Inc. | Extensible composite nonwoven fabrics |
US6338855B1 (en) * | 1996-10-25 | 2002-01-15 | The Procter & Gamble Company | Cleansing articles for skin and/or hair which also deposit skin care actives |
US6417121B1 (en) * | 1994-11-23 | 2002-07-09 | Bba Nonwovens Simpsonville, Inc. | Multicomponent fibers and fabrics made using the same |
US20020119720A1 (en) * | 2000-10-13 | 2002-08-29 | Arora Kelyn Anne | Abrasion resistant, soft nonwoven |
US6926931B2 (en) * | 2003-04-07 | 2005-08-09 | Polymer Group, Inc. | Dual sided nonwoven cleaning articles |
-
2003
- 2003-09-08 EP EP03752093A patent/EP1534507A1/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2003-09-08 US US10/657,439 patent/US20040128807A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2003-09-08 WO PCT/US2003/028102 patent/WO2004022333A1/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 2003-09-08 AU AU2003270403A patent/AU2003270403A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2006
- 2006-05-23 US US11/439,738 patent/US20060260736A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (9)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4041203A (en) * | 1972-09-06 | 1977-08-09 | Kimberly-Clark Corporation | Nonwoven thermoplastic fabric |
US5098764A (en) * | 1990-03-12 | 1992-03-24 | Chicopee | Non-woven fabric and method and apparatus for making the same |
US5393599A (en) * | 1992-01-24 | 1995-02-28 | Fiberweb North America, Inc. | Composite nonwoven fabrics |
US6417121B1 (en) * | 1994-11-23 | 2002-07-09 | Bba Nonwovens Simpsonville, Inc. | Multicomponent fibers and fabrics made using the same |
US5804286A (en) * | 1995-11-22 | 1998-09-08 | Fiberweb North America, Inc. | Extensible composite nonwoven fabrics |
US6338855B1 (en) * | 1996-10-25 | 2002-01-15 | The Procter & Gamble Company | Cleansing articles for skin and/or hair which also deposit skin care actives |
US5780369A (en) * | 1997-06-30 | 1998-07-14 | Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc. | Saturated cellulosic substrate |
US20020119720A1 (en) * | 2000-10-13 | 2002-08-29 | Arora Kelyn Anne | Abrasion resistant, soft nonwoven |
US6926931B2 (en) * | 2003-04-07 | 2005-08-09 | Polymer Group, Inc. | Dual sided nonwoven cleaning articles |
Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20040222552A1 (en) * | 2003-01-22 | 2004-11-11 | John Housler | Three-dimensional fabrics and films and the process for making the same |
WO2017039629A1 (en) * | 2015-08-31 | 2017-03-09 | Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc. | Low basis weight nonwoven web with visibly distinct patterns |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO2004022333A1 (en) | 2004-03-18 |
EP1534507A1 (en) | 2005-06-01 |
US20040128807A1 (en) | 2004-07-08 |
AU2003270403A1 (en) | 2004-03-29 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
EP0814189B1 (en) | Bulky nonwoven fabric and method for producing the same | |
KR101222098B1 (en) | Extensible absorbent composites | |
US8584328B2 (en) | Process for preparing a non-woven fabric having a surface covered with microfiber and fabric obtainable with said process | |
KR101637620B1 (en) | A nonwoven composite and method for making the same | |
US6592713B2 (en) | Method of producing a nonwoven material | |
US7452835B2 (en) | Nonwoven insulative blanket | |
US8664572B2 (en) | Nonwoven blanket with a heating element | |
US20060191115A1 (en) | Method of making a filamentary laminate and the products thereof | |
US20060260736A1 (en) | Method of making a dual performance nonwoven and the products therefrom | |
CN101205002A (en) | SMS many component compound packing material and producing method with same | |
US20060185134A1 (en) | Method of making a filamentary laminate and the products thereof | |
JP5902257B2 (en) | Method for producing composite nonwoven sheet | |
EP2348147B1 (en) | Process of making a non-woven cleaning cloth | |
JPH10204765A (en) | Waterproof multi-layered nonwoven fabric having good vapor permeability and reduced in weight and its production | |
US20040105965A1 (en) | Laminate nonwoven fabric exhibiting useful momentary crenulations | |
JPH01201567A (en) | Production of bulky spun-bond nonwoven fabric | |
JPH03860A (en) | Conjugate non-woven fabric and production thereof | |
JP3464544B2 (en) | Method for producing thin and lightweight reinforced hydroentangled nonwoven fabric | |
JP3262430B2 (en) | Method for producing biodegradable laminated nonwoven structure | |
US20050272340A1 (en) | Filamentary blanket | |
Tausif et al. | Nonwoven fabrics | |
JPH0931857A (en) | Laminated nonwoven fabric and its production | |
JPH1037058A (en) | Nonwoven sheet for wiper and production thereof | |
JPH0841762A (en) | Laminated nonwoven fabric and production of the same | |
TW202332818A (en) | Nonwoven fabrics including recycled polypropylene |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: CITICORP NORTH AMERICA, INC., AS COLLATERAL AGENT, Free format text: NOTICE OF NEW COLLATERAL;ASSIGNORS:CHICOPEE, INC.;FIBERTECH GROUP, INC.;PGI POLYMER INC.;AND OTHERS;REEL/FRAME:019399/0323 Effective date: 20070605 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |