The word "nonwoven fiber" is spelled as /ˌnɒnˈwəʊvən ˈfaɪbər/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable is pronounced as "non" with a short "o" sound, while the second syllable is pronounced as "woven" with a long "o" sound. The stress is on the second syllable. The final syllable is pronounced as "fiber" with a short "i" sound. The spelling "nonwoven" refers to a fabric that is made without weaving, while "fiber" refers to a thread or filament that is used to make textiles.
Nonwoven fiber refers to a type of fabric or material that is composed of individual fibers or filaments that are interlocked or bonded together using various methods other than weaving or knitting. This unique construction gives nonwoven fiber its distinct characteristics and properties.
In its production, nonwoven fibers are made by directly forming them into a web or mat through mechanical, thermal, or chemical processes. These fibers can be natural (such as cotton or wool) or synthetic (such as polyester or polypropylene). Nonwoven fibers are randomly arranged, creating a fabric with a combination of strength, softness, and flexibility.
Nonwoven fiber exhibits several notable properties that make it suitable for a wide range of applications. Its ability to have different weights, thicknesses, and textures allows for customization according to specific requirements. Nonwoven fiber can be water-repellent, breathable, and/or flame-retardant, depending on the manufacturing techniques and additives used.
Due to its versatile nature, nonwoven fiber finds extensive use in numerous industries. It is commonly employed in the production of hygiene products like diapers and feminine hygiene pads, as well as in medical supplies like surgical gowns and masks. Nonwoven fiber is also utilized in the automotive sector for upholstery and insulation, in construction for geotextiles and roofing materials, and in agriculture for crop protection and erosion control.
Overall, nonwoven fiber is a fabric or material that is manufactured using bonding techniques, providing a wide array of applications due to its strength, flexibility, and other desirable properties.
The term "nonwoven" is derived from the combination of two words: "non" and "woven".
The word "woven" comes from the Middle English word "weven", which originated from the Old English word "wefan". "Wefan" itself has its roots in the Proto-Germanic word "weban" and the Proto-Indo-European word "webh-", both meaning "to weave" or "to interweave". In the context of fabrics, "woven" refers to the process of interlacing two or more threads or yarns at right angles to create a fabric structure.
The prefix "non-" in "nonwoven" is derived from the Latin word "non", meaning "not". It is often used to indicate the absence or negation of something.