At IDEA, Sandler AG invited visitors to the garden of (green) developments. The nonwovens manufacturer showcased its broad range of material for hygiene products, wipes and technical applications, among them nonwovens that take account of sustainability. In baby care, feminine care and incontinence products, Sandler offers nonwovens that combine functionality and comfort in use. Efficient, even softer nonwovens for intake layers contribute to optimum fluid management. Particularly smooth product variants are ideal for use as tampon covers. A new generation of nonwovens for elastic closure systems combine improved extensibility and high stability in processing.

Sandler developed a nonwoven composite for use in diapers in cooperation with a customer, that is particularly smooth yet voluminous at the same time. Special embossing creates a topographical structure on the materials surface, which enhances fluid handling as well as comfort in use: moisture collects at the lower points; the bulky sections keep moist parts of the material away from the skin, thus preventing skin irritation. Owing to its low basis weight this new development is ideal for thin, lightweight product structures for hygiene applications—for increased comfort and discretion in use.

Another multi-layer nonwoven offers a structured and perforated alternative for topsheets: The embossing pattern dubbed “canyon” renders the topsheet bulkier, while also increasing stability and creating an individual look. This structure forms grooves on the topsheet’s surface, which help quickly transport fluid away from the body and into the absorbent core. In this way, the nonwovens contribute to preventing skin irritation and support a sense of safety during use.

Sandler topsheet materials made with cotton also contribute to comfort in use—soft, reliably functional and manufactured using an increased share of renewable raw materials.

In the wipes market, Sandler is developing more sustainable product solutions even for single-use products. Made from a special, certified viscose fiber, Sandler’s new substrates are biodegradable and also available as FSC certified variants. They offer the established Sandler quality—highly absorbent, tear-resistant and better for the environment. The PEFC-certified substrate, bio textile by Sandler is made exclusively from viscose fibers sourced from European forests—sustainable raw materials with a reduced carbon footprint. Newly developed nonwovens made from viscose and cellulose acetate fibers are soft and gentle on the skin. They are biodegradable and compostable. Wipes substrates made from the lactic-acid based raw material PLA and product variants with a share of cotton complete the range of nonwoven substrates made with raw materials from renewable sources.

Especially for applications in household cleaning Sandler presented wipes substrates made from recycled polyester fibers, which also contribute to conserving resources. An embossing design dubbed “square” further enhances cleaning properties. Rows of small squares enlarge the nonwoven’s surface for optimized dirt removal while also rendering the wipe substrate more voluminous for a softer, fluffier feel.

For disinfection applications, Sandler showcased a new fine perforation, which is effective in two ways: Firstly, the enlarged surface increases dirt collection for optimum cleaning results. Secondly, fluids accumulate in the material and are quickly released during use—a prerequisite for ideal disinfection.
Product variants featuring increased stability further add to the product range.