Discuss SMS Technology, Features, and Applications

Did you know that there is a growing demand for SMS Non-woven Fabric during the coronavirus pandemic? Does SMS fabric provide the best protection and strength?

SMS fabric is used in various applications, including industrial and medical purposes as well as textile and consumer goods.  SMS materials are extensively used in the healthcare setting, they are commonly made with coveralls, isolation gowns, surgical face masks, etc.

The characteristics of SMS fabric include lightweight, transverse and long-lasting strength.

We will also explore the difference between spun-bond polypropylene and melt-blown polypropylene during this guide.

SMS Fabric

Spunbond-Meltblown – Spunbond is a primary nonwoven tri-laminate fabric. It is made up of a layer of melt-blown polypropylene and is sandwiched between two layers of spun-bond polypropylene.  Each of the individual fabric layers contributes to the SMS consequence. When these two fabrics are combined, it provides comfort, water resistance, and breathability.

SMMS Fabric

The SMMS stands Spunbond- Melt blown- Meltblown – Spunbond, a four-layers of nonwoven.
Two layers of melt-blown fabrics are sandwiched between two layers of spunbond nonwoven fabrics.

It is identical to SMS nonwoven fabric, the meltblown polypropylene here is doubled.

The manufacturing process of SMS Nonwoven Fabric

There are many ways to bond SMS fabric, but the most common method is thermo-bonding.  One side of the roller has a smoother surface, and the other side has tiny pins. Together creates embossed finishes on the opposite side of the fabric. These pins penetrate the fabric only 20% and aid in bonding the layers.

Is SMMS more effective than SMS?

Some products may have multiple layers of melt-blown between the spunbond materials.

Since the meltblown layers act as the filters of the fabric, with more layers of meltbown, SMMS has a higher filtration rate than SMS.

Spunbond & meltblown nonwoven fabrics, What are the functions of each fabric?

Spunbond Polypropylene

To create spunbond fabrics, a melted polymer is extruded through a spinneret.   The resulting long thin filaments are called “spunbond”.

This table lists the advantages and defects of spunbond.

Meltblown Polypropylene

The melt-blown process works in a similar way to the spunbond process. It transforms melted polypropylene grains into a low-diameter, nonwoven fiber web.  If a face mask, meltbown acts as the main function as a filtration layer

This table lists the advantages and defects of meltblown.

Test Methods and Standard of SMS Nonwoven Fabric

Thermo-bonded thermal bonded SMS fabric samples were tested for functionality and comfort properties.

This table shows how SMS fabric is tested and the way meets the quality.

SMS Fabric Used in Medical Field

Medical professionals use disposable SMS nonwovens extensively. Since these products are single-use, they will be incinerated after each use. The spread of contaminants is therefore reduced.

SMS Nonwovens are used for a range of purposes, including:

• Isolation gowns
• Surgical face mask
• Single-use cap
• Scrub suit
• Shoe cover
• Bed linen
• Surgical drape
• Lab coat
• Sterilization wrap

What is the rating of protective materials and PPE?

Materials for the surgical gown, isolation gown, and surgical drapes are rated on the ability to block liquids and liquid-borne pathogens. There are 4 levels of protection per the AAMI: PB70 2012 standards.

For more detailed information, refer to the Medtecs guide to isolation gown and surgical gown selection.

References

1. Engqvist, H. (2020, March 1). Nonwovens— The Fight For Better Healthcare. Nonwovens Industry Magazine. 
2. Technologies, B. T. (2021, August 23). An Introduction to SMS Material. Blue Thunder Technologies. 
3. Vishwakarma, S. V. (2021, January 15). Surgical Gowns Using SMMMS Method. Textile Study Center. 
4. Shende, P. (n.d.). Impact and Scope of Intelligent Textiles in Health Care | Abstract. Journal of Bioequivalence & Bioavailability. Retrieved September 3, 2021, from 
5. Spun bonding technology and fabric properties: A review. (2017, April 17). Journal of Textile Engineering & Fashion Technology. 
6. F.S.K. (2015, September 1). A Review of Isolation Gowns in Healthcare: Fabric and Gown Properties. PubMed Central (PMC). 
7. Vishwakarma, S. V. (2021b, January 15). Surgical Gowns Using SMMMS Method. Textile Study Center.