Structure and physical properties of BioPBS melt-blown nonwovens

In this study, the effect of melt-blown parameters on the properties of nonwovens manufactured from novel, commercially available biobased polybutylene succinate (BioPBS) was investigated. The research focused on the structure, surface, and mechanical properties. The parameters of processing, such as the air temperature (240 and 200 degrees C) and die-to-collector distance (-40 cm), were evaluated in order to determine their impact on the prepared materials. Analyzing the effect of changes in the process parameters on individual fiber properties, it was noticed that the reduction of air temperature from 240 to 200 degrees C results in an increase in the fiber diameter, which directly affects other physical properties such as apparent density and air permeability. In addition, the differences in the surface structure of nonwovens were determined. The investigation clearly shows that the obtained nonwovens can be characterized by various roughness sides with an insignificant impact on the friction and contact angle values. The mechanical tests suggest the influence of the supramolecular structure of PBS on the elongation and tenacity of the materials. The structure of the obtained nonwovens is different from the known characteristic nonwoven structure obtained by the melt-blown method from conventional polymers but can be useful in agricultural or horticultural applications.