The absorbent solutions provider

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2 Welcome The absorbent solutions provider The mission of Technical Absorbents (TAL) is to offer a truly world class level of innovation, development and supply of super absorbent products, precisely tailored to meet your absorbency requirements. Unsurpassed levels of customer service and support have helped take TAL to the forefront of the super absorbents industry. Through continual investment in its core super absorbent technology development, together with a commitment to a global manufacturing capacity expansion program, TAL will continue to be an ideal partner to the super absorbent industry. Since its inception in 1993, TAL has endeavoured to achieve excellence throughout every aspect of its business operation. This has been recognised externally with ISO 9001:2000 Quality Management System and ISO Environmental Management System accreditations. It is also a winner of the UK Queen s Award for Export. This brochure highlights the company s experience and enthusiasm, explains the technology behind its Super Absorbent Fibre (SAF ) and illustrates a world of endless possibilities for its application. Technical Absorbents The Absorbent Solutions Provider

3 4-5 Super Absorbent Fibre (SAF ) 6-7 The manufacturing process 8-9 A world of absorbent opportunities Applications - apparel Applications - hygiene, dental and medical Applications - packaging Applications - technical textiles 18 Applications - cable yarns and tapes 19 First-class sales, service and support The future is absorbing

4 4 Super Absorbent Fibre (SAF ) The core business of Technical Absorbents (TAL) is the manufacture of Super Absorbent Fibre (SAF ) at its impressive UK production site. TAL is part of Bluestar Fibres Company Ltd, which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of China National BlueStar (Group) Co., Ltd. which in-turn is wholly-owned by ChemChina. Bluestar Fibres Company Limited SAF is manufactured using the latest state-of-the-art production methods and control protocols. As a result, TAL is able to offer its expanding global customer base a wide range of extremely high performing and versatile super absorbent fibre grades, which are suitable for a variety of applications in a number of new and established markets. As a result of the relationships it has built with some of the world s leading specialist fibre converters, roll-goods producers and end product manufacturers, TAL also toll manufactures nonwovens, yarns, woven fabrics and finished consumer goods all containing SAF. Its extensive product portfolio is already renowned within the industry and continues to go from strength-to-strength. For more in-depth information, reports and datasheets, please visit

5 SAF is an extremely effective and versatile super absorbent technology. It is white, odourless and has the appearance and improved handling characteristics of a textile fibre, while offering the possibility of being used to produce a wide range of fabrics. It has been developed by TAL to provide extremely high rates of saline and water uptake. Furthermore, as a fibrous super absorbent, SAF allows for ease of handling and gives rise to exceptionally substantive and even distribution profiles within final fabric construction. These benefits have made it the super absorbent of choice for many customers. SAF can be relatively easily converted through the majority of existing nonwoven and textile routes. Useful facts: SAF is available in a wide range of highly absorbent grades SAF is non irritant and can be used in applications demanding robust toxicological profiling SAF does not melt. It begins to decompose extremely slowly at temperatures >200 C the fibre density is approximately 1.4g/ml. The future is absorbing

6 6 The manufacturing process SAF is a cross-linked polymer consisting of three different monomers acrylic acid (AA), methylacrelate (MA) and a small quantity of a special acrylate/methacrylate monomer (SAMM) in which the acrylic acid is partially neutralised to the sodium salt of acrylic acid (AANa). The cross-links between polymer chains are formed as ester groups by reaction between the acid groups in acrylic acid and the hydroxyl groups in the SAMM. {-AA-} w {-AANa-} x {-MA-} y {-SAMM-} z {-CH 2 CH-} u {-CH 2 C(CH 3 )-} v I I CO R I I O O I I cross-links to adjacent polymer chains where: -AA- ={CH 2 CH(COOH)-} from acrylic acid -AANa- = {-CH 2 CH(COONa)-} from acrylic acid and caustic soda -MA- = {CH 2 CH(COOCH 3 )-} from methylacrylate R = -COOCH 2 CH(CH 3 )- The values of W, X, Y, & Z depend on the quantities of raw materials used and U and V on the amount of heat treatment received. Water is the solvent used for all of the raw materials required to produce SAF, resulting in a manufacturing process that has minimal impact on the environment. TAL manufactures its own patented polymer system used to produce SAF.

7 The aqueous polymer solution is extruded into a hot air stream in order to dry and cure the polymer, resulting in the formation of SAF filaments which are at this stage soluble in water. Various denier types can be produced at the extrusion stage. The filaments of SAF are then cooled and precision cut into a range of staple lengths. The cut fibre is then dried, cross-linked and conditioned before being baled for despatch. The TAL production process is extremely versatile, allowing for precise tailoring and control of all required fibre parameters. State-of-the-art in-house quality control systems ensure fibre is produced to very exacting specifications. This is a huge advantage to many customers and has helped open up many opportunities in new market sectors. In addition, the TAL production process can offer its super absorbent technology in a number of non-fibrous forms such as a filament yarn (OASIS-FIL), a polymer solution (OASIS-PS) and other specific tailored forms. The future is absorbing

8 8 A world of absorbent opportunities SAF can be converted into numerous fabric and yarn structures using the following web-forming processes: Air-laid SAF is routinely processed on all commercial air-laid production equipment. Product web technologies include: BBAL/LBAL = Binder-Bonded Air-Laid/Latex-Bonded Air-Laid MBAL = Multi-Bonded Air-Laid HBAL/XBAL = Hydrogen-Bonded Air-Laid/X-Bonded Air-Laid SAF short staple grade <6mm _ are typically blended with wood pulp and thermal bondable fibre. Air-Laid webs within excess of 80% SAF content can be achieved at fabric weights of approximately 20-1,000gsm. A wide range of lamination options are available for SAF -based air-laids. Dry-laying carded SAF can be blended with a wide range of other fibre types and processed through standard carding systems for nonwoven web forming. Webs containing up to 85% SAF can be produced at a wide range of fabric weights, typically between 10-2,000gsm.

9 Staple Fibre Yarn Manufacture SAF can be processed by all well-known staple fibre spinning systems. Typically, SAF is blended with other synthetic fibres such as polyester, nylon, cellulosic s and aramids. These fibre blends are normally processed using the cotton and semi-worsted systems. A wide range of spun yarns can be produced using common spinning technologies. Wet-laid* SAF can be wet-laid to produce super absorbent papers. This process involves dispersing 0.1% slurry of SAF in water for a few seconds before adding the refined pulp mix. Papers have already been produced that contain up to 20% SAF. * This process has been patented Blending and bonding SAF can be then blended with a full available range of synthetic and natural fibres to meet customers end requirements. SAF webs can be bonded as follows to allow for the formation of an extremely diverse fabric portfolio: needle-punched, thermally bonded^, stitch-bonded, latex-bonded^^, steam/calendar bonded, bonding combinations (multi-bonds).^^^ ^ ^^ Typically when blended with bi-component fibres Within a fibre matrix, SAF will dry back to its original fibre shape ^^^ The steam causes the surface of SAF to stick via hydrogen bonding to cellulose fibres, e.g. wood pulp or viscose The future is absorbing

10 10 Apparel Performance apparel is reported to be one of the fastest growing sectors of the international textile industry. The SAF solution TAL is using its knowledge and experience to expand further into this market with its SAF -based coolant technology. Three-layer evaporative cooling composite fabric This fabric has a unique fibre-entangled cooling core, which is a combination of super absorbent hydrophilic and hydrophobic fibres evenly distributed in the form of a low profile, lightweight fabric. This is sandwiched between a quick drying, breathable outer-shell laminate, and a thermally conductive, wickable and water-repellent inner liner. Soaking the core in water activates the cooling process. An optimal and finite amount of water is evenly absorbed, distributed and held by SAF without dripping or becoming saturated. The fabric structure is designed to distribute and surround the water-charged core with air, creating an ideal environment for evaporation. The breathable outer-shell fabric promotes fast drying and moisture transfer, and the inner, thermally-conductive liner promotes the escape of body heat. It does this by exchanging the heat for soothing, cooling comfort, while acting as a membrane to retain the moisture inside the core and stop the lining from feeling damp or wet.

11 Phase-change/super absorbent material combination Products incorporating phase-change technology interact with the unique microclimate of the human body, and the environment, to moderate the body s temperature. The material has an optimum level at which it can absorb heat. If that is surpassed, the result is sweating. However, the introduction of SAF means this is soaked up to further enhance the cooling performance. The combined phase-change/saf fibres can be optimised to meet customers exact requirements. Heat and moisture management yarn technology One of the core yarns used with this system, is a SAF spun yarn. This removes perspiration away from the skin. When wet, the thermal conductivity of the fibre increases and assists the movement of heat from hot spots. A multi-composite yarn design structure encases the SAF providing significant durability and washable properties. This technology has significant application potential, particularly in undergarments offering heat and moisture management properties. Key features are the maintenance of dry-feel comfort and associated cooling benefits. The future is absorbing

12 12 Hygiene, medical and dental Hygiene products such as femme-pad, incontinence products and diapers are a necessary part of many peoples everyday life. These absorbent products are required to be comfortable, provide specific and effective levels of performance and be as discreet in use as required. Enhanced fluid management in the dental profession ensures that the dentist has precise control over saliva absorption. The size, comfort and performance of the dental absorbent products are crucial for the comfort of the patient. In the medical industry, absorbent technology is required for numerous products, including those for exudate management. As part of the normal healing process, wounds release fluid but too much or too little can interfere with the healing process. Therefore it is important to manage moisture levels, particularly in chronic wounds. The SAF solution TAL is committed to the development and application of SAF in order to meet the ever-growing number of opportunities within the medical, dental and hygiene sectors. TAL is a member of the European Disposables and Nonwovens Association (EDANA) and receives regular updates from other industry bodies. The polyacrylate super absorbent chemistry, on which SAF is based, has been extensively tested to establish its safe-for-use status in applications that require a high degree of toxicity and regulatory approval. Studies and research undertaken includes: allergenicity; irritation; dermal; genetic; reproductive and ingestion.

13 Hygiene SAF is the super absorbent of choice in ultra-thin femme care products. This is a result of its superior fluid absorption properties, together with its ability to produce super soft and discreet absorbent core designs. TAL s experience and innovation in this growing market sector has allowed it to develop fabrics which deliver improved user comfort levels, and ultra-low re-wet performance. This technology is also suited to the incontinence pad and diaper markets. Medical SAF is already being used in a wide range of specialist medical care application areas. The nature of the product has also lead to a number of exciting opportunities in the design of new wound care fabrics for exudates management. Dental SAF now forms the basis for new dental fabrics that offer significantly higher levels of absorption compared to traditional materials such as cotton rolls. The future is absorbing

14 14 Packaging Free exudates are one of the main problems with primary packaging of fresh produce. There is now an increasing global legislative requirement for the total containment of food exudates in pre-packaged foods. This is as a direct result of the negative impact that free food exudates have on the health and safety aspects of food distribution. In addition, control of exudates results in significant improvement of product shelf-life, together with optimum presentation to the customer. Food exudates can be minimised by including an absorbent pad or wrap that has the sufficient capacity to hold all of the exudates that may be released. Absorbent technology is also beneficial when packaging fresh or perishable goods for transportation. This method allows the temperature to be controlled and remain constant. It can also be used in diagnostic packaging to soak up any leakages that might occur in storage or transit. The SAF solution SAF is regulated by the United States of American Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use as a fluid absorbent in food-contact materials in the packaging of fruit and vegetables, poultry, meat and fish, all at refrigerated and frozen temperatures.* Fresh food Fabrics incorporating SAF provide a highly innovative and efficient means of keeping meat, fish, poultry and a whole range of perishable foodstuffs, packaged in optimised conditions. The versatility of SAF allows for the design of fabric constructions which absorb and lock away excess liquid from the foodstuff within the SAF core. Given the non-migratory properties of SAF, SAF fabrics can be cut and shaped to the required size.

15 Freeze Using SAF is a highly portable way of chilling perishable goods. When wet and frozen, fabrics incorporating the fibres have the capability of significantly reducing surrounding temperatures for extended periods. When defrosted thoroughly, all of the free liquid is held by the fabric ready to be refrozen. Diagnostic It is crucial that medical testing kits, blood, bodily fluid-testing materials and medical waste are packaged correctly before transportation. This is important to ensure contents do not leak if damaged in transit. The incorporation of SAF in such packaging materials ensures that any potential loss of fluid is locked within the fabric for safe disposal. *Regulation of the use of SAF is achieved through the FDA Pre-market Notification (PMN) programme. The Food Contact Notification numbers are (or 98) and (or 344). This replaced the Code of Federal Regulations Title 21 (21CFR). In practice, clauses of 21CFR are often referred to in PMN/FCNs. The most relevant section of 21CFR is 21CFR cross-linked polyacrylate co-polymers. The future is absorbing

16 16 Technical textiles Technical textiles are used by a diverse range of industries. Such materials meet high technical and quality requirements that give them the ability to provide a pre-determined function. The SAF solution TAL is continuing to develop absorbent solutions for these different markets where the customer is focused on the performance of the end product. Construction TAL has developed strong and durable fabrics that can be incorporated into new and existing buildings to enhance long-term fire protection systems. These fabrics are water-charged as part of an emergency response. The walls containing them then remain resistant to heat transfer and fire damage is minimised. Filtration Unique filter fabrics have been developed to offer the potential for enhanced filter design and performance. The technology of TAL means that filter absorbency, blocking, efficiency and durability are all possibilities. Application areas include water removal from oils and fuels, air filtration, blood treatment filters and personal protective equipment. Protection TAL has developed new fabric technologies using SAF for fire prevention and protection. The performance of these is significantly enhanced compared to traditional flame-retardant and ballistic materials in apparel goods.

17 Agriculture and horticulture SAF water reservoir and composite fabrics ensure the controlled availability of water for plants, seeds and lawns and can be used for commercial and domestic applications. They can achieve efficient delivery of water to all root systems as and when required. As a result, re-watering periods are reduced. It also leads to fast establishment, reduced water costs and control of water and nutrients in areas not normally viable for plant growth. Geotextiles SAF -containing geotextiles have been developed as an alternative technology for applications that require waterproofing, e.g. civil construction installations, tunnels, rain water storage facilities and geotextile constructions. They function by initially absorbing water so that the membrane swells to form an impermeable barrier to water. In addition such linings avert the contamination of surrounding soils. They offer a number of advantages, including more substantive and compact designs, ease of manufacture and handling, less shedding and wastage, and faster absorption and blocking rates. The future is absorbing

18 18 Cable yarns and tapes There are essentially two key modes of protecting cable from water ingress longitudinal (active system) and radical blocking (passive system). Cable yarns and tapes are an alternative technology to the more traditional methods used in the active system to prevent water passage along a cable from a joint or point of sheath damage. The historically dominant method especially for telecoms cables is petrogel, which effectively fills all of the available spaces within the cable. The petrogel adheres to the components of the cable to close all possible leakage pathways. However, associated problems include messy application and difficulties with contamination of the gel. The SAF solution SAF is converted into water-blocking spun yarns and nonwoven tapes for this use and offers a number of advantages over petrogel, including lower investments in manufacturing equipment, more reliable and cleaner cable production, shorter core access time during jointing, no cleaning chemical needed and less environmental impact. They work by absorbing any water that enters the cable, resulting in rapid swelling by the super absorbent content, with the subsequent swollen gel blocking any further ingress. Cable types which require water blocking are those suitable for external use, or where a cable is designed for use in both external and internal applications without jointing. This includes all types of cables-telecom, medium and high voltage power and industrial. Water-blocking yarns and tapes are used together to provide the total active system.

19 First-class sales, service and support Despite its success, TAL is continuously looking to enhance product quality and explore new markets and opportunities. Every day it manages a range of innovative development projects for new and prospective customers who have concepts that require absorption capabilities. The process is supported by a global network of agencies and development partner networks, a strategically planned marketing campaign and ongoing communication with the industry. SAF is a unique product and a market leader in a wide range of applications, and an ongoing programme of investment has been put in place to help TAL maintain this position for many years to come. This level of commitment, coupled with a reputation for providing cost-effective solutions, excellent customer service and first-class technical support, is its main foundation for continued growth. With Technical Absorbents, the future really is absorbing. The future is absorbing

20 Technical Absorbents 1 Moody Lane Great Coates Grimsby North East Lincolnshire DN31 2SS United Kingdom T: +44 (0) F: +44 (0) E: sales@techabsorbents.com Technical Absorbents - part of the Bluwstar Fibres Company Limited Company registered in England Number: