A framework for determining the bonding intensity in hydroentangled nonwoven fabrics

The structural changes in the web and the development of bonding in hydroentangled fabrics are considered as a function of the applied energy. A new fundamental expression to characterize the hydroentanglement intensity (H) is defined as the sum of the deflection depths of all fibre segments subject to the incident water jet impact based on a consideration of the applied energy, fibre dimensions and properties, as well as fibre deformations observed during the process. The influence of fibre rigidity on the hydroentanglement intensity and the relation between the hydroentanglement intensity and fabric tensile strength for different fibres are also considered.