Raw materials and polymer science for nonwovens

The chemical composition and molecular characteristics of the materials used to make nonwovens can be thought of as customisable building blocks that influence the cost, processing characteristics, environmental impact, and overall performance of the fabrics. In this chapter, the main raw materials, whether synthetic or derived from nature, used to produce nonwovens are discussed, paying particular attention to the role that polymer systems play in controlling nonwoven properties and functionality. From the molecular scale up to the nanoscale, the chemical sequence of the polymer backbone and the assembly of macromolecular chains or inorganic crystals are important, as are manufacturing conditions, where the chemistry and structure of the fibre may be controlled. It is therefore important to understand process–structure–property relationships so that target cost and performance requirements can be met, as well as to enable engineering of raw material formulations and fibre microstructure.