Metal detectable nonwovens developed

Nonwoven substrates with impregnated particles that can be detected by metal detectors have been developed. A team of three researchers at ITW Pro Brands, have developed technology to incorporate stainless steel particles into spunmelt nonwovens that can find applications in the food packaging sector.

Regular spunbond wipes and garments that are used in food packaging lines have the possibility of getting mixed with the food packages and products, while used. However, having these wipes that can be detected by metal detectors that are already in place in food packaging machines will solve the problem and help with reducing health risks and legal issues, says Karen Mertins, a chemist with ITW Pro Brands.

The technology displays collaborations with polymer technology companies and nonwoven roll goods manufacturer. Initial trials were conducted at the Social Circle-GA based Standridge Color Corp. to further develop the product; Mertins’ team collaborated with Fitesa to develop the wipes using Fitesa’s 1 meter Reicofil spunmelt line. Mertins says that the team used 16 micron-sized stainless steel particles from Eriez Magnetics of Erie, Pa. to develop the spunmelt wipes. The inventors are also looking into developing x-ray detectable textile materials, as well.

Mertins presented the patent pending technology at a recent NET Inc. event during the PaperCon conference, in Cincinnati, Ohio. Mertins, Bob Martin and Emily Aldridge are the inventors of the patent-pending technology.

Provided by Seshadri Ramkumar, Ph.D. , professor, Nonwovens & Advanced Materials Laboratory, Texas Tech University