bio textile by sandler. © Sandler

At this year’s IDEA Show in Miami, FL, Sandler invites visitors to the garden of (green) developments. The nonwovens manufacturer will showcase its broad range for hygiene products, wipes, and technical applications, among them nonwovens that take account of sustainability.

In babycare, feminine care, and incontinence products Sandler nonwovens for hygiene applications are designed to combine functionality and comfort in use. “Efficient, soft nonwovens for intake layers contribute to optimum fluid management. Particularly smooth product variants are ideal for use as tampon covers. A new generation of nonwovens for elastic closure systems combine improved extensibility and high stability in processing. The focus of this year’s trade fair participation, however, will be on nonwovens for topsheet applications,” the company explains.

Nonwovens for topsheet applications

Another highlight is a nonwoven composite, specifically developed for use in diapers in cooperation with a customer, is particularly smooth yet voluminous at the same time, according to the manufacturer. A special embossing creates a topographical structure on the materials surface, which is designed to enhance fluid handling, as well as comfort in use: moisture collects at the lower points; the bulky sections keep moist parts of the material away from the skin, thus preventing skin irritation. Owing to its low basis weight this new development is suitable for thin, lightweight product structures for hygiene applications – for increased comfort and discretion in use.

Another multi-layer nonwoven offers a structured and perforated alternative for topsheets: The embossing pattern dubbed “canyon” renders the topsheet bulkier, while also increasing stability and creating an individual look, Sandler explains. This structure forms a sort of grooves on the topsheet’s surface, which help quickly transport fluid away from the body and into the absorbent core. This way, the nonwovens are said to contribute to preventing skin irritation and support a sense of safety during use.

New biodegradable substrates

Renewable resources and the goal of offering more sustainable product solutions even for single-use products are a major focus in the production of Sandler’s wipes substrates. Made from a certified viscose fibre, Sandler’s new substrates are biodegradable and also available as FSC certified variants. They are said to be highly absorbent, tear-resistant and better for the environment. The PEFC-certified substrate bio textile by sandler is made exclusively from viscose fibres sourced from European forests – sustainable raw materials with a reduced carbon footprint.

“Newly developed nonwovens made from viscose and cellulose acetate fibres are soft and gentle on the skin. They are biodegradable and compostable. Wipes substrates made from the lactic-acid based raw material PLA and product variants with a share of cotton complete the range of nonwoven substrates made with raw materials from renewable sources,” the company says.

Especially for applications in household cleaning, Sandler will present wipes substrates made from recycled polyester fibres, which also contribute to conserving resources. An embossing design dubbed square further is designed to enhance cleaning properties. Rows of small squares enlarge the nonwoven's surface for optimised dirt removal, while also rendering the wipe substrate more voluminous for a softer, fluffier feel.

For disinfection applications, Sandler will showcase a new fine perforation.

www.sandler.de