What are the advantages and characteristics of PLA nonwovens as air filtration materials?
1. Biodegradability
Biodegradability is a very important feature for mask filter materials. Conventional mask filtration layers are made of double-layer meltblown PP nonwovens, a material that is virtually non-biodegradable. Discarded masks, whether they flow into rivers and oceans or are buried in the soil, are a great danger to the ecosystem.
PLA-based mask filters not only effectively filter dust, bacteria and other harmful substances in the air, but also degrade after use and disposal, reducing the pressure on the ecosystem.
When PLA fibre products are in a natural environment with a certain temperature and humidity (e.g. sand, silt, seawater), PLA can be completely decomposed into carbon dioxide and water by microorganisms. If PLA fibres are buried in soil, the natural degradation time is about 2 to 3 years; if PLA fibres are mixed with organic waste and buried, they will decompose in a few months.
2. Anti-bacteria and deodorisation
The surface of PLA fibre is weakly acidic, which can inhibit the growth of microorganisms and reduce the spread of allergens and germs in the air to a certain extent.
Based on this feature, PLA disposable biodegradable masks have obvious deodorising effect and no bad breath for long-term wear. Used in household air filtration equipment, the filtered air is fresh and odourless, and at the same time, it can effectively prevent the filter material from mould and bonding, and prolong its service life.
3. Filtration performance
PLA fibre has certain filtration performance, its fibre fineness and cross-section shape can be designed to optimize air flow and particle capture effect, effectively filtering small particles and pollutants in the air.
4. High Air Permeability
The structural design of PLA fibres allows for high air permeability, ensuring smooth air flow without compromising air circulation efficiency.
5. Good tensile strength
PLA fibres have high tensile strength, which makes the air filtration wool more durable and less prone to deformation or damage during use.
6. Strength and toughness
Nonwoven fabrics made from PLA fibres can achieve high strength and excellent toughness to meet the needs associated with product folding in some application scenarios.
