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In collaboration with Reifenhäuser Reicofil, a global supplier of nonwoven, meltblown, and composite production lines, ExxonMobil has developed high-loft, ultra-soft nonwoven fabrics that can be tailored to specific applications. The “breakthrough solution” will be presented at the Index 20 nonwovens trade show on Oct. 19 to 22 in Geneva.

“Working collaboratively with Reifenhäuser Reicofil has resulted in a new benchmark for high-loft, soft nonwovens to meet growing market demand globally, and particularly in Asia Pacific,” said ExxonMobil’s Olivier Lorge, Global Market Manager, Polypropylene, Vistamaxx and Adhesions Business. “Addressing the hygiene market’s desire for innovative, differentiated soft nonwovens, this solution will unlock business opportunities for ExxonMobil customers across the value chain.”

A blend of ExxonMobil PP3155E5, ExxonMobil Achieve Advanced PP3684, and Vistamaxx 7050BF performance polymer, the fabric is easily processed using bi-component (BiCo) spunbond technology from Reifenhäuser Reicofil.

By adjusting the formulation, nonwovens can be tailored to meet the needs of different hygiene product components, such as the bellyband, back and top sheets used in baby diapers, and feminine care and adult incontinence products. 

Offering the thickness required for cushiony softness, the nonwoven fabric is as resilient as it is lofty, while delivering good drapability, uniformity for consistent products, and low lint for surface stability, according to the press release. Formulation variations allow nonwovens to be produced with a different feel, from a cotton-like to a silky touch, to meet the needs of the application.

Spunbond fabrics can be up to 15% thicker than other BiCo spunbond high-loft solutions. Plus, 80% of the thickness is maintained after being placed under load for an extended period.