Nanofiber

Definition and Overview

Nanofiber refers to ultrafine fibers with diameters generally in the nanometer range. Raw materials vary widely, including polyester, nylon, and cellulose-based materials, and they are processed into forms suited to the application, such as woven fabrics, knitted fabrics, nonwovens, and membrane-like sheets.

Nanofiber is not a material name or a fabric structure name, but a term that focuses on fiber fineness. For that reason, even with the same nanofiber, appearance, strength, breathability, and durability can vary greatly depending on the raw material, production method, fabric weight, and post-processing.

Features and Appearance

Because the fibers are so fine, the surface area is large, and it is easy to create a structure in which fibers are densely layered. Depending on the design, it can provide a smooth and soft hand, a finely textured surface, and a thin sheet feel that takes advantage of its lightness.

On the other hand, it is not a material that uniformly provides high filtration, wind resistance, or water absorption. These properties are determined by the characteristics of the raw material, fiber alignment, pore size, and composite processing such as coating or lamination.

• The surface may be uniform and can look like fine brushed texture.
• By designing microscopic pores, it is possible to consider balancing filtration and moisture permeability.
• Extremely thin sheets may present issues such as insufficient strength or snagging.

Main Applications

In apparel, it is used for the surface layer or base material of synthetic leather-like materials, lightweight functional sheets, linings, and interlayers. In addition, its feel and refined surface make it suitable for filters, hygiene products, and everyday goods beyond clothing.

Whether it is for spring and summer or autumn and winter cannot be determined by the fact that it is nanofiber alone. Thin, breathable constructions are used for lightweight garments, while denser or layered constructions are sometimes used as materials to supplement wind resistance and warmth retention.

Selection and Handling Notes

When selecting it, check not only the raw material name but also the production method, structure or nonwoven construction, fabric weight, thickness, stretch, breathability, and wash durability with an actual sample. In addition to the strength and appearance required for the application, also evaluate dimensional change after washing, pilling, and whether there is any delamination between layers.

Washing methods should follow the raw material and processing specifications. Thin sheets and fine fiber layers may change in hand feel or shape due to strong friction, twisting, or high heat during drying. Perform wash testing before productization, and reflect the care instructions and washing method in the specifications.

During sewing, needle holes may stand out, fabric may tear from the needle holes, feed may cause waviness, or the area around the seam may look stiff. Adjust needle size, thread, stitches per inch, and presser foot pressure to match the fabric, and reinforce seam allowances or do test sewing if necessary.

Difference from Microfiber

Microfiber is also a general term for fine fibers, but nanofiber differs in that it refers to fibers in the even finer nanometer range. However, because it is sometimes used in sales settings as a broad term for fine-fiber materials, it is important not to judge fiber diameter or performance from the name alone.

Also, nonwoven refers to a category of sheet material made without weaving or knitting fibers. While nanofiber is often used as a nonwoven, nanofiber itself does not mean nonwoven only.

Frequently Asked Questions