Tuning the properties of fibers from nanocellulose for application in nonwovens

Important results from the project

Today, nonwoven production is largely dependent on non-sustainable resources, both in terms of raw material and manufacturing process. Fibers spun from cellulose nanofibrils extracted from wood have recently received enormous attention upon discovery of a method to produce fibers with exceptional mechanical properties. This project aimed at adapting the properties of such fibers for their beneficial use in nonwovens. It was especially important to have this adaptation stage during fiber spinning to control the nanofibril assembly and by that tune the fiber bulk structure.

Expected long term effects

As a result of the project, we managed to tune the fiber properties to suit better for nonwoven application. Still the fiber spinning process requires optimization to allow both mass production and control over the reproducibility of fiber properties, however, the obtained results are quite promising. We believe that these results will help pave the way towards industrialization of such novel fibers that in the long term could reduce the dependence on fossil-based fibers in nonwoven materials.

Approach and implementation

Main objective of the project was to improve wet strength and long-term mechanical stability of the fibers. This was achieved by investigating chemical cross-linking strategies applied in-situ during fiber-spinning. The potential of the developed fibers to function as reinforcement in a simplified wipe concept was evaluated. Two different prototypes were made and data tends to indicate an increase in dry breaking force of about 25% for the best prototype. However more work and data would be needed before any safe conclusion regarding improvement level can be drawn.