Abstract
An isotropic fiberweb was manufactured with a sheet forming machine using directly spun microfibers. The fiberweb was interlaced through a water jet process to bind its constituent fibers. The process variables that affect the physical properties of the spunlace fabrics were investigated. The optimal processing conditions for the wetlaid web were determined and the detailed optimum conditions of spun lace nonwovens were as follows: fiber length was 10 mm, type of dispersing agent was non ionic surfactant, and the concentration of dispersing agent was 0.3 ml/l. Also the spilt type of microfiber was used to make nonwoven fabrics in same operation conditions. The experimental results showed that there were minor differences for the two type of nonwovnes in the hand values measured by KES-F system. However, the tensile and the tear strengths of directly spun nonwovnes were superior to split ones. Considering the durability, cost, and productivity, the directly spun nonwovens are prospective in furnishing and shoe markets.