Current U.S. Bicomponent Fiber Producers: BASF Corporation; DuPont Company; Fiber Innovation Technology, Inc.; KoSa; Solutia Inc.

Definition: Bicomponent fiber is comprised of two polymers of different chemical and / or physical properties extruded from the same spinneret with both polymers within the same filament.

Bicomponent Fiber Capabilities
Bicomponents can provide:

• Thermal bonding
• Self bulking
• Very fine fibers
• Unique cross sections
• The functionality of special polymers or additives at reduced cost

Common Bicomponent Configurations
Most commercially available bicomponent fibers are configured in a sheath / core, side-by-side, or eccentric sheath / core arrangement.

Sheath / Core Side by Side Eccentric Sheath / Core

Advantages of Bicomponent Thermal Binder Fibers

• Uniform distribution of adhesive
• Fiber remains a part of structure and adds integrity
• Customized sheath materials to bond various materials
• Wide range of bonding temperatures
• Cleaner, environmentally friendly (no effluent)
• Recyclable
• Lamination / molding / densification of composites.

Common Polymer Combinations in Bicomponent Thermal Binder Fibers

• Polyester Core (250C melt point) with Copolyester Sheath (melt points of 110C to 220C)
• Polyester Core (250C melt point) with Polyethylene Sheath (130C melt point)
• Polypropylene Core (175C melt point) with Polyethylene Sheath (130C melt point)

Self Bulking Bicomponent Fibers

• Created most often with side-by-side or eccentric cross section
• Variation in orientation across the fiber causes crimping due to differential shrinkage or strain with applied heat or relaxation.