Thursday, November 16
9:00 am - 11:30 am
Creating Sustainable Nonwovens for Hygiene Applications with Thermally Processable Polyvinyl Alcohol; A Water Soluble, Environmentally Friendly and High-performance Polymer
Polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) is known for its high performance and environmental properties, but historically this polymer has been very difficult to process in its standard form. However, Aquapak technology now allows for the production of staple fibres and spunmelt nonwovens via melt extrusion, using existing machinery. This is achieved without polymer modification, which maintains full product functionality and end of life biodegradation.
Aquapak PVOH offers high mechanical strength, liquid management, hydrophilicity, tailored solubility, antistatic properties, and biocompatibility. PVOH fibres and nonwovens also enable reuse/ recycling, anaerobic digestion and marine biodegradation.
PVOH nonwovens can be manufactured in one process step, creating a wide range of opportunities for disposable hygiene and personal care applications. The functionality of PVOH means that traditional plastics can be replaced with a polymer that is designed for the circular economy, offering tangible sustainability and unique consumer experiences.
» Keith Wilbourn, Ph.D.
Technical Services – North America, Aquapak Polymers
BIOGRAPHY
Keith has been working in the fields of nonwovens, packaging, coating, and laminating for most of his career, spanning 35 years. He was the Director for Medical nonwovens at PGI, now Berry Global. Additionally, as a development manager, he has helped commercialize packaging for many items that are commonly found in North American households, whether it is the chicken in your freezer or blister packages in your bathroom. He has experience with development, manufacturing, and regulatory for nonwovens, plastics, aluminum foils, adhesives, and inks used in creating products and packages as well as their design and testing. Keith has a Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry from the University of North Carolina.
