Filtration performance of consolidated meltblown webs

The purpose of this research was to investigate the effects of draw consolidation processing on the filtration performance properties of meltblown webs. Several basic parameters controlling web consolidation were examined to optimize the pore size distribution for particulate capture efficiency and other filtration performance properties. The requirements for precursor web properties and post draw processing to maximize consolidation were predicted from Euler buckling and polymer rheology principles. Variables predicted to control the magnitude of the consolidation were verified experimentally. The degree of consolidation as indicated by statistical measures of pore size distribution related collectively to the filtration performance. Webs consolidated by the draw processing achieved levels of filtration performance equivalent to webs having half the pore size.