Polyolefin Fibres: Structure, Properties and Industrial Applications

Polyolefin Fibres: Structure, Properties and Industrial Applications, Second Edition, explores one of the most widely used commercial polymers, with a focus on the most important polyolefins, namely polyethylene, polypropylene, and polyolefin bicomponent fibres. These versatile fibres are durable, chemically resistant, lightweight, economical, and functional. This new edition has been updated and expanded to include cutting-edge research on a broad range of advanced applications.

Part I covers the structure and properties of polyolefin fibres, incorporating a new chapter on the environmental aspects of polyolefin use. Part II examines the methods for improving the functionality of polyolefins, providing essential information for those engaged in developing high-performance materials. A final group of chapters addresses how polyolefin fibres can be incorporated into specific textile applications, such as automotive, geotextile, biomedical, and hygiene products, and explores potential future development.

This book is an essential reference for textile technologists and manufacturers, polymer and fibre scientists, yarn and fabric manufacturers, biomedical and device engineers, and industrialists and researchers.

Introduces the types, properties and structure of polyolefin fibers for readers new to the polyolefins fieldExamines methods to improve the functionality of polyolefin fibers, providing essential information for textile technologists and research and development managers engaged in developing high-performance materialsPresents existing and potential applications of polyolefin fibers, exploring how they can expand the range of commercial polyolefin-based products

Part 1: Structure and properties of polyolefin fibers 1. Types of polyolefin fibers 2. The structural and chemical properties of polyolefin fibers 3. The structural mechanics of polyolefin fibrous materials and (nano)composites 4. The structure and mechanics of Ultra-High-Molecular-Weight Polyolefins (UHMWPO) 5. Polyolefins and the environment

Part II: Improving the functionality of polyolefins 6. Production methods for polyolefin fibers 7. Enhancing hygiene/antimicrobial properties of polyolefins 8. Improving the use of polyolefins in nonwovens 9. Testing and quality control of polyolefins 10. Polyolefin nanocomposite fibers and films 11. Improving the colouration/dyeability of polyolefin fibers

Part III: Enhanced applications and uses of polyolefin fibers 12. Improving wear resistance of polyolefins 13. Improving thermal and flame resistance properties of polyolefins 14. Polyolefin-based protective textiles 15. Automotive components composed of polyolefins 16. The use of polyolefins in geotextiles and engineering applications 17. Biomedical applications 18. Use of polyolefins in hygienic applications