Studies on the Properties of Biodegradable Wipes made by the Hydroentanglement Bonding Technique

Nonwoven fabrics for household wipe applications were produced using the hydroentanglement bonding technique. Blends of three types of polyester/viscose fibers and flax/viscose fibers were utilized in this study. The wipes were compared in terms of their physical and mechanical properties, serviceability and durability under simulated use conditions. Physical properties, such as mass per unit area and thickness were measured and the fabric density was calculated. Tensile strength and elongation properties, both in the dry and the wet states, were studied and the liquid absorption characteristics of wipes were tested. Subsequently, the end use conditions for wipes, both in dry and wet cleaning were simulated and the changes in mechanical and absorption properties were tested to ascertain their serviceability. It is concluded that flax fibers can be successfully utilized for developing household wipes due to their good absorption characteristics and higher tensile strength and satisfactory durability.