Bicomponent Bico Fibers

Bico fibers are a new class of fibers, rather than a sub-set of PET fibers. Such fibers are formed from two different polymers, which are melted separately, and tlien combined into a single fiber at tire last moment before extmsion. In some cases, tire fibers are actually extruded separately, and tlien combined beneath the spinneret while tliey are still molten, so that they fuse togetiier after spinning. 

The side-side configuration is typically used to impart crimp to the fiber. If the fiber is formed from polymers witli different shrinkage characteristics, and 

Bico fibers have been available for at least 30 years, but only recently have they developed widespread applications. Bico production equipment is relatively more complex and expensive, and so tlie fibers require higher selling prices. As these fibers become more common in specialty markets, production cost is decreasing, so tliat they are now beginning to find uses in commodity applications. 

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Sometimes, biodegradable polymer can also be used in bicomponent fibers, like biodegradable Bico fiber produced by Shinwa (Japan). This fiber uses PLA as the core polymer and PE as the sheath (Eig. 2.16). Like PET/PE bicomponent fiber, the PE sheath provides smooth and soft handle, while PLA provides an ecoMendly advantage for the final products based on its biodegradability [41]. 

Loschpapier bicomponent fiber/ bico fiber/composite fiber/heterofil(s) Bikomponentenfaser... 

The types of products that contain PET fibers will expand, especially in areas such as nonwoven fabrics used for disposable items, e.g. industrial fabrics for diapers, disposable wipes, filters, etc. These are products that do not require much hand labor, and are relatively well protected from low labor costs in developing countries. Bicomponent fibers based on PET will become more prevalent as the production technology becomes more widespread, in areas where the bico approach can enhance properties or economics. 

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