Eastman Chemical is enhancing its platform capability with a 4.5-micron diameter PET microfibre, specifically designed for wetlaid processing, in response to the nonwovens market’s need for expanded formulation options with fine fibres.

This addition to the family of Eastman Cyphrex microfibres comes less than a year after the successful launch in April 2013 of its 2.5-micron diameter microfibre. When blended, these highly uniform microfibres are said to allow the formulator to help pinpoint permeability and control pore size, resulting in greater precision for targeted functionality.

Changing size

The introduction of this larger, 4.5-micron (0.2-denier), round PET fibre opens up the space that formulators can access with regard to targeting specific pore sizes and desired permeability in their media, making it a highly suitable material for filtration applications, the company reports.

In addition, it is said to open more possibilities for manufacturers, and can provide even better formation, or sheet uniformity, when compared with the 2.5-micron (0.06-denier) fibre.

More possibilities 

Eastman Cyphrex microfibres are said to offer a unique combination of capability in variation of size, shape and material, a high level of uniformity and consistency, and ease of wetlaid processing.

“The new 4.5-micron fibre demonstrates our capability of changing size, and manufacturers can use this unique fibre to pinpoint permeability and pore size and to improve media uniformity even further,” said Fred Dulin, Director, Microfibres Platform, Eastman.

“These results demonstrate that significant value can be created in nonwoven formulations through specific design of fibre size characteristics and insights provided by industry-standard application development capabilities.”

Eastman Chemical Company

Eastman is a specialty chemical company that produces a broad range of products found in items for every day use. With a portfolio of specialty businesses, Eastman works with customers to deliver innovative products and solutions while maintaining a commitment to safety and sustainability.

Its market-driven approaches take advantage of world-class technology platforms and leading positions in attractive end-markets such as transportation, building and construction and consumables. As a globally diverse company, Eastman serves customers in approximately 100 countries and had 2013 revenues of approximately $9.4 billion.

www.eastman.com