Abstract

We know that nonwoven fabrics are one of the oldest andsimplest textile fabrics. Its classic example is felt. The first welldocumented discovery of felt dates back 3500-3000 BC. It was made from hairs ofvarious animals.

Primarily nonwoven fabrics were utilized only in protectiveclothing and shelters (tents), but since last few years nonwoven industry hasgrown abruptly and this unconventional trend fabric apart from its applicationin geo-textiles, nappies, filters, bags, etc. have now started to find itsapplication into the fashion apparel industry also. This has become possibledue to the research and development in the properties of nonwoven fabrics.Unlike traditional fabric manufacturing process where fibers are converted intothe yarn and then weaved to form a fabric, nonwoven fabrics are directlyobtained from fibers. A nonwoven material offers number of advantages overtraditional fabrics, cost savings being the most obvious.

In the late 1960's there were few attempts to market disposabledresses but could not succeed. Recent research has resulted in fabrics withbetter drape, hand, durability, stretch and recovery. So, now it is extensivelyfinding its application in the apparel industry for interlinings, clothing andglove insulation, bra and shoulder padding components. These enhancedcharacteristics have compelled us to push aside the prejudices associated withthis unconventional fabric and move towards the modern concept.

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About the Authors:

Satyajeet Chaudhari andAadhar Mandot are Lecturers and Patel Milin and Matharu Karansingh are studentsfrom The Maharaja Sayajirao University Of Baroda in the Department of TextileEngineering, Faculty of Technology & Engineering.