Method for Introducing Zeolites and MCM-41 into Polypropylene Melt-Blown Nonwovens

Abstract

In this work, a method for introducing zeolites and mesoporous siliceous materials into the melt-blown process for the production of polypropylene nonwovens was developed and the functional materials obtained were tested. Both types of additives were introduced in the melt-blown technology using a device placed in the duct of the die assembly. Nine types of polypropylene melt-blown nonwovens were made with different types of zeolites (clinoptilolite, Na-X, Na-A, Na-P1, sodalite, Na-P1 with hexadecyl trimethylammonium bromide (HDTMA), ZeoEco 20, and BioZeo R.01) or mesoporous silica material (Mobil Composition of Matter No. 41, abbreviated as MCM-41). The nonwovens were studied in terms of protective and functional parameters: sodium chloride and paraffin oil mist aerosol penetration, airflow resistance, and sorption capacity for toluene, ammonia, acetone, and cyclohexane, in accordance with the requirements of the European standards concerning respiratory protective equipment. The tests showed that zeolites and MCM-41 can be successfully incorporated within the structure of elementary polymer fibers using an environmentally friendly “dry” melt-blown technology with nonwovens modified so as to impart multiple functionalities in one integrated technological process. The developed method of introducing the studied materials to polypropylene melt-blown nonwovens led to the production of new multipurpose materials with good protective and functional properties. The best polypropylene nonwovens were produced with the addition of 250 g/m² of MCM-41 or Na-P1 zeolite modified with HDTMA.