Synthetic filter media is a type of air and liquid filter material made from non-woven polymeric fibers, which offer superior characteristics compared to conventional cellulose-based filter media. These characteristics include greater physical strength, greater chemical resistance, better fine filtration performance, and pressure-drop accumulation behavior. Many factors affect filtration efficiency, such as the density, thickness, diameter, orientation and surface characteristics of the fibers. Synthetic filter media is available in standard and special size widths and is compatible with a multitude of filter production processes, such as stamping, corrugating and pleating. At present, air filter materials are predominantly made from synthetic polymers derived from petroleum.
However, research has been conducted to explore the use of an alternative air filter medium that is easily and economically manufactured from the ramie plant (Boehmeria nivea). This material is ideal for use in unventilated applications, such as range hoods, air purifiers, room air conditioners or anywhere odors need to be eliminated. Cellulose filter media can be made of pure cellulose fibers or cellulose fibers mixed with synthetic fibers or glass fibers to improve properties. When selecting the right filter medium, the main performance issues considered are particle capture efficiency, production capacity, washability, cake release, temperature resistance and strength. Double-layer fabrics are composed of a filter layer (for example, a closed twill fabric filter) and a support layer (for example, an open square fabric) that are interwoven together. The treatment of ramie fiber with alkali (NaOH) was able to improve the mechanical properties and performance of air filter media.
This article explains the method used to produce ramie plant fiber that can be used as an air filter medium according to the T205 standards of the Pulp and Paper Industry Technical Association (TAPPI).Fiberglass bulk air filter medium consists of a continuous fiberglass filament of graduated density to ensure drainage between the filter medium and the surface below. Under the broad umbrella of filter media, there are many synthetic media materials available including woven filter cloths, filter media for woven and non-woven fabrics, and filter felts. Each grade may differ in capacity and composition but all cellulose filter media contain cellulose resin and fibers. This versatile material has proven performance and is manufactured to exact specifications to ensure consistent performance. It is made from renewable resources and is cost-effective.
