Nonwoven fabrics for wiping applications

Abstract

A method of using nonwoven fabrics for wiping in cleanroom applications wherein the fabrics were heretofore believed less than optimum for such applications and a nonwoven fabric applicable for use in cleanroom applications

What is claimed is:  
     
         1 . A wiping material comprising a nonwoven fabric that has been cleanroom laundered, wherein the nonwoven fabric is comprised of fibers selected from the group consisting of polyester, lyocell, and blends of polyester and lyocell and the nonwoven fabric is used in cleanrooms rated as at least as Class  10  as determined by FED-STD-209E.  
     
     
         2 . The wiping material of  claim 1 , wherein the nonwoven fabric is hydroentangled.  
     
     
         3 . The wiping material of  claim 1 , wherein the fabric has a basis weight of about 102 grams per square meter or greater.  
     
     
         4 . The wiping material of  claim 1 , wherein the fabric has a dynamic wiping efficiency of at least 98% at a challenge volume of 10 milliliters.  
     
     
         5 . The wiping material of  claim 3 , wherein the fabric has a dynamic wiping efficiency of at least 70% at a challenge volume representing about 130% of the sorptive capacity of the fabric.  
     
     
         6 . The wiping material of  claim 1 , wherein the fabric has a particle removal efficiency of at least 99% at a challenge volume of 10 milliliters.  
     
     
         7 . The wiping material of  claim 1 , wherein the fabric has a particle removal efficiency of at least 96% at a challenge volume representing 130% of the sorptive capacity of the fabric.