Investigation on the rebound rate for polymeric composites and nonwoven needle punched fabrics at various depths

Abstract

The study employs the mechanical interlocking theory and hot pressing treatment to generate nonimpregnation of highly rebounding composites. This design preserves the high flexibility, elasticity, and stability of elastic polymer while reserving the skin-friendly feature, resilience, and recovery of the highly elastic nonwoven fabrics without using an adhesive. During the preparation of highly rebounding composites, elastic polymers are hot pressed to form films, after which they are combined with highly elastic nonwoven fabrics. The composites are then examined in terms of the mechanical properties and the level of adhesion. Fluffy nonwoven fabrics and elastomer polymers are hot pressed in order to obtain better adhesion and puncture resistance. The tensile and hammer rebound rate test results show that highly rebounding composites that are reinforced using stiff nonwoven fabrics exhibit greater resilient and tensile properties. Comparing to pure nonwoven fabrics, the proposed highly rebounding composites have a structure that is 1.5 time greater compactness, as well as 1.5 times greater a tensile strength and 1.6 time greater resilience. Namely, they provide great variety according to the users’ ends as their performances are better and adjustable. For example, shallowly or deeply needle punched nonwoven fabrics can be separately used in the garments or cushions. The proposed highly rebounding cushion composites are protective materials and are suitable for the application as in cushions, packaging, and buffering protective equipment.