Adolf-Scheufelen-Strasse 33,
73252 Lenningen, Germany
Tel. +49 (0) 7026 66 30
[email protected]
www.nonwoven365.com
NonWoven365, located in Lenningen near Stuttgart, was founded in 2020 as a spin-off from Scheufelen Papierfabrik, a company with a 150-year tradition of high-quality paper manufacturing.
Scheufelen Paper Factory faced challenges due to its energy-intensive processes and low-margin products in the graphics and packaging sectors, coupled with high capital expenditures. Despite these challenges, the factory had a highly qualified staff with expertise in converting fiber-based materials like paper and nonwovens into two-dimensional structures. The founder, possessing a visionary outlook, recognized numerous opportunities in the field of nonwoven-based materials.
NonWoven365 engineers technical nonwovens using a wet-laid technique from materials such as carbon fibers, ceramic fibers, recycled carbon fibers, and various metal fibers. “This technology allows us to disperse specialty fibers typically unsuitable for regular nonwoven production,” says Manuel Clauss, chief operating officer, NonWoven365. “Developed through the extensive experience of former Scheufelen employees, our proprietary process blends traditional methods with innovative approaches. This combination of unique fibers and our specialized technology enables us to cater to niche applications effectively.”
Nonwovens engineered at NonWoven365’s facility are primarily used in the renewable and sustainable energy industries, with a focus on green mobility and stationary storage applications. According to Dr. Clauss, these materials play a crucial role in hydrogen fuel cells, water electrolyzers, flow batteries for energy storage, EMI shielding, composite industries, and thermal runaway management in electric batteries.
The company’s virgin carbon fiber nonwovens are utilized in high-performance electrochemical applications. Recycled carbon fiber nonwovens serve as intermediates and surfacing materials in the composite industry, particularly for the automotive and aerospace sectors. Meanwhile, ceramic fiber nonwovens are specifically designed for thermal runaway management in electric vehicle batteries.
“These markets represent emerging segments within the established renewable energy industry, characterized by increasing demand, stringent regulations, and growing quality requirements,” says Dr. Clauss.
With a focus on sustainability, NonWovens365 is actively involved in using recycled carbon fiber nonwovens in the composite industry. Compared to virgin carbon fiber nonwovens, Dr. Clauss says recycled carbon fiber nonwovens reduce the carbon footprint tenfold. “We have established strong partnerships with a global network of fiber recyclers. Currently, we are working on projects to recycle and repurpose aramid and ceramic fibers, significantly reducing the costs, carbon footprint and contributing to the 4Rs of the circular economy,” he adds.
Looking ahead, the company plans to expand its production capacity by adding a larger machine with a width of 1800 mm and a production capacity of up to 10 million square meters per year. This new addition will enable NonWoven365 to scale up rapidly and allocate different product classes to two separate machines. This flexibility will allow the company to further modify its machinery to meet specific specialty requirements, Dr. Clauss adds.
Operating at a scale that is typically unappealing to regular nonwoven companies, NonWoven365 specializes in low-volume niche products, also offering R&D, piloting and contract services.
Dr. Clauss believes nonwovens are the most cost-effective method for creating 2-D structures from fibers, offering versatile application possibilities. While most nonwovens are produced through dry-laid or air-laid processes, he says there is a growing need for specialty products made from carbon, ceramic, and metal fibers. “At NonWoven365, we address this need through our convenient wet-laid technology,” he explains. “With the expanding renewable energy industry and electrification, the applications for nonwovens are vast, making this an excellent time to be involved in the nonwovens industry, both now and in the future.”
