SMS Fabric:
- Composition: SMS stands for Spunbond-Meltblown-Spunbond. It is a composite fabric made by layering a meltblown (M) layer between two spunbond (S) layers.
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Manufacturing Process:
- Spunbond Layer: This is made by extruding thermoplastic polymers into continuous filaments, which are then laid randomly and bonded by heat or pressure.
- Meltblown Layer: This is created by extruding the polymer into fine filaments, which are blown onto a conveyor belt using hot air. The result is a fine web of microfibers that are excellent at filtering.
- Final Product: The SMS layers are bonded together, usually through heat or ultrasonic bonding, to form a strong, durable, and breathable fabric.
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Properties:
- Strength: Good tensile strength due to the spunbond layers.
- Filtration: The meltblown layer provides excellent filtration efficiency.
- Breathability: While breathable, it offers some resistance to water and particulates.
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Applications:
- Medical gowns, drapes, and masks.
- Hygiene products like diapers.
- Industrial filters and protective clothing.
Spunlace Fabric:
- Composition: Spunlace, also known as hydroentangled fabric, is typically made from a blend of fibers such as polyester, viscose, cotton, or polypropylene.
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Manufacturing Process:
- Fiber Web Formation: The fibers are laid down randomly or in a specific orientation.
- Hydroentangling: High-pressure water jets are used to entangle the fibers, which interlock and bond without the need for chemicals or heat.
- Final Product: The entangled fibers create a fabric that is soft, strong, and highly absorbent.
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Properties:
- Softness: Very soft to the touch, making it suitable for personal care products.
- Absorbency: Highly absorbent, often used in wipes and other cleaning products.
- Strength: Reasonable strength, though not as durable as SMS in terms of tensile strength.
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Applications:
- Wet wipes and dry wipes.
- Medical gauzes and bandages.
- Facial masks and beauty care products.
- Industrial cleaning cloths.
Key Differences:
- Manufacturing Process: SMS is created through a combination of spinning and melting processes, while spunlace is formed by hydroentangling fibers.
- Properties: SMS is generally stronger and better for filtration, while spunlace is softer and more absorbent.
- Applications: SMS is often used in medical and industrial applications requiring strength and filtration, while spunlace is preferred in products requiring softness and absorbency, like wipes and personal care items.
