Control of Binder Migration in Nonwoven Web Bonding, 1992 Nonwovens Conference Proceedings
Thermomigration of latex binder during the drying step of a binder application procedure can have signficant effects on the properties of a nonwoven web. Migration can result in an uneven distribution of binder and associated colorants or chemicals. Possible effects on the nonwoven include reduced internal strength, harsher hand, non-uniformity of properties on opposite faces of the web, uneven coloration and reduced absorbency. These negative effects can be avoided by thermosensitizing latex formulations to affect destabilization of the latex emulsion on the nonwoven web at a point in the drying process before migration takes place. Through the use of thermosensitizing or coagulation-inducing chemicals and careful formulation of the latex application bath, the electrostatic and steric forces stabilizing the latex emulsion can be affected to bring about coagulation at a desired temperature.