Files
Abstract
In this research, the influence of process conditions on the properties of polylactic acid (PLA) nonwoven fabrics by melt blowing are described. A commercially available PLA being developed for melt blowing application was processed under various conditions and with a processing aid using a melt blowing pilot line. Produced nonwoven samples were studied by scanning electron microscope (SEM), capillary flow porometer, absorbency and air permeability testing system. In addition, the physical and mechanical properties of nonwoven fabrics were determined. The results are discussed in terms of changes in the structure and properties of the meltblown nonwoven fabrics due to changes in the forming process. The fiber diameter changes explain the observed changes in the physical and mechanical properties of the nonwoven fabrics obtained under different process conditions.