Jet-Spun technology
Researcher Mirjam Oldenzeel is closely associated with the research and development of the Jet-Spun technology. “At the present time Twaron pulp is made by cutting up aramid yarns into short fibers. This is a somewhat roundabout process because the yarn first has to be spun in order to be able to process it to pulp afterwards.
that's why we started research into an advanced method for making pulp ten years ago. We are now at the stage of having a patented process. This supplies a strongly fibrillated pulp with a large internal surface area.
As well as this we can also make a type which consists of small film-like particles, called Jet-Spun Fibrids. These film structures are excellently suitable for interaction with the paper components.”
Jet-Spun Pulp and Jet-Spun Fibrids combine the special properties of aramid with the structure of a new material. Aramid is resistant to high temperatures, is strong and resistant to wear. In combination with short fibers and a film-like structure with a large internal surface area this leads to exceptional new properties and completely new applications.
Applications
Mirjam Oldenzeel gives an example. “Jet-Spun Fibrids can stand up to being sprayed with water very well. Therefore, for the first time we can think about using para-aramid in fire resistant textile, by applying a layer of aramid to it. This would form fabrics with much improved heat resistance.”
Other possibilities are for use in honeycomb structures that are used for electrical, thermal and acoustic insulation.
Synthetic fibers producer Teijin Limited began operations way back in 1918 as a pioneer in the rayon textiles industry from Japan, and textiles business has always been central to the company's operations.