Coated Nonwoven Fabric: A Functional Composite Material

Coated nonwoven fabric, also known as laminated nonwoven fabric or plastic-coated nonwoven fabric, is a functional composite material created by coating or laminating a plastic film (typically polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), etc.) in a molten state onto the surface of a nonwoven fabric. This process imbues the nonwoven fabric with new properties, particularly enhancing its barrier and waterproof capabilities.

Manufacturing Principle and Characteristics of Coated Nonwoven Fabric

The coating process usually involves extruding molten plastic polymer into a thin film, then directly bonding it onto a nonwoven substrate under high temperature and pressure. Once cooled, the plastic film adheres firmly to the nonwoven surface, forming a composite layer.

This composite structure gives coated nonwoven fabric the following main characteristics:

• Excellent Barrier Properties: The plastic film layer effectively blocks the penetration of liquids (such as water, blood, bodily fluids) and also provides a good barrier against dust, particulates, and microorganisms. This is the core function of coated nonwoven fabric.
• Waterproof: The coated layer makes the nonwoven fabric completely or highly waterproof, overcoming the non-waterproof drawback of ordinary nonwovens.
• Increased Strength and Durability: The addition of the plastic film can enhance the overall strength and tear resistance of the nonwoven fabric.
• Printability: The surface of some coated nonwoven fabrics can be printed on, increasing the product's aesthetic appeal and allowing for brand information.
• Formability and Heat-Sealability: Nonwoven fabrics with PE or PP coating can be heat-sealed using heat pressing or ultrasonics, making it convenient to create various shaped products, such as bags, protective garments, etc.
• Relatively Poor Breathability (Traditional Type): Traditional coated nonwoven fabrics, due to the presence of the plastic film layer, typically have poorer breathability, which can lead to a stuffy feeling. However, improved products have emerged in the market, for example, by micro-perforating the film or coating with breathable membranes (like TPU waterproof breathable membranes) to enhance breathability.
• May Feel Stiffer: Compared to soft ordinary nonwovens, coated nonwoven fabrics might feel slightly stiffer due to the presence of the plastic film.

Functions and Applications of Coated Nonwoven Fabric

Coated nonwoven fabric plays a vital role in numerous fields due to its unique waterproof, barrier, and strengthening properties, especially in scenarios requiring leak prevention and protection.

Main Functions:

• Waterproof and Anti-seepage: Prevents liquid penetration.
• Isolation and Protection: Forms a physical barrier to block bacteria, viruses, dust, etc.
• Packaging Protection: Provides moisture-proof, dust-proof, and some degree of damage protection for internal items.
• Enhanced Mechanical Properties: Improves the material's tensile and tear strength.

Typical Uses:

• Medical and Healthcare Field:
  • Medical Protective Gowns, Isolation Gowns, Surgical Gowns: Provide effective barriers against blood, bodily fluids, and pathogens, protecting healthcare workers and patients.
  • Surgical Drapes, Fenestrated Drapes: Used in operating rooms to maintain a sterile environment.
  • Disposable Bed Sheets, Pillowcases: Used in hospitals, clinics, and similar settings to provide waterproof and hygienic barriers.
  • Medical Packaging Materials: For sterile packaging of instruments.
• Personal Care Products:
  • Baby Diapers and Adult Incontinence Products: Used as a leak-proof backsheet to prevent urine leakage.
  • Feminine Hygiene Products (Sanitary Napkins, Panty Liners): As a bottom leak-proof material.
• Packaging Field:
  • Shopping Bags, Packaging Bags: Especially for shopping bags or industrial packaging that require moisture resistance.
  • Food Packaging: Used for food products that require moisture protection.
• Industrial and Agricultural Fields:
  • Protective Covers, Dust Covers: Used for machinery, products, or crops.
  • Building Damp-Proof Materials: Used as moisture barriers for roofs, walls, etc.
  • Agricultural Covers: Such as ground covers, seedling covers, providing insulation and moisture retention.
• Other Fields:
  • Disposable Tablecloths, Aprons: Used in catering, beauty salons, and other industries.
  • Outdoor Products: Such as simple raincoats, moisture-proof mats, etc.

Coated nonwoven fabric is a product born from the combination of nonwoven and film technologies. By endowing nonwovens with new functionalities, it has greatly expanded their range of applications, making it an indispensable functional composite material in modern life.