A new comfort standard in nonwoven applications with Borealis’ latest HDPE fibre grade

Borealis, a leading provider of innovative, value creating plastics solutions, has launched a new high density polyethylene (HDPE) fibre grade for bicomponent applications. The new solution, VL9500, allows converters to produce stronger nonwovens with less material, delivering consistent, high quality products with enhanced comfort for the end users. The material can be used in the complex production of spunbonded or staple fibre nonwovens for demanding hygiene applications.

Specially designed for the skin layer of bicomponent fibres, VL9500 typically adds up to 20% more strength to nonwovens. This creates the potential for converters to use fewer polymers to attain the required strength and final product fit.

VL9500’s uniquely broad temperature processing window delivers further benefits to the converters. By eliminating any impact on fibre quality due to temperature variations in the production process, this solution allows consistent performance for finished nonwovens.

The new grade is characterised by the excellent softness and enhanced comfort it brings to end users. This, in combination with the reliable quality of nonwovens produced with VL9500, makes the grade highly suitable for applications with enhanced comfort such as incontinence and feminine care products.

In addition, the low melting temperature of VL9500-based nonwovens opens up possibilities for use in lamination to other fabrics or films.

Marc Hubert, Vice President of Borealis’ Film & Fibre Business Unit comments: “VL9500 is the latest addition to our rapidly expanding fibre grade portfolio. Its development reflects the commitment we have to the nonwovens industry and our support for driving innovation within the hygiene and textile markets. Bicomponent fibres are relative newcomers to the industry and VL9500 results from close cooperation with industry players to identify areas for improvement in terms of processing and strength. We are looking forward to passing on the benefits of this collaboration to converters, OEMs and the ultimate final product users.”

Borealis has more than 15 years experience in providing advanced polyolefin solutions for nonwoven applications and textile fibres. In partnership with the value chain, Borealis continues to provide innovative, value creating polypropylene and polyethylene solutions.