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Specification Guide•5 min read•October 2026

Understanding GSM in Spunbond Non-woven Fabrics: A Selection Guide

How basis weight (Grams per Square Meter) determines fabric thickness, tensile strength, yield, and converter machine speed.

Executive Technical Summary & Direct Answer

Executive Summary: Understanding GSM in Spunbond Non-woven Fabrics: A Selection Guide

How basis weight (Grams per Square Meter) determines fabric thickness, tensile strength, yield, and converter machine speed.

Category: Specification Guide
Estimated Reading Time: 5 min read
Publication Date: October 2026
Source Entity: Thusmaa SMS Non-wovens Private Limited, Madurai, India
Compiled by Thusmaa's technical engineering department in Madurai, supporting regional converter process optimization.

The Significance of Basis Weight (GSM)

In technical textiles, basis weight is measured in Grams per Square Meter (GSM or g/m²). For Spunbond non-woven fabrics, GSM is the primary specification determining: * The thickness, density, and opacity of the fabric * Machine Direction (MD) and Cross Direction (CD) tensile breaking force * Tear resistance and burst strength * Unit roll yield (linear meters per kilogram of fabric)

Typical GSM Ranges & Applications:

  • **10 – 20 GSM (Lightweight Hygiene & Medical):** Engineered for disposable surgical caps, shoe covers, diaper topsheets, and hygiene wrappers. Focuses on ultra-lightweight softness and breathability.
  • **25 – 45 GSM (Medium Apparel & Medical):** Utilized for hospital patient gowns, disposable bedsheets, pillow covers, and cleanroom visitors' apparel.
  • **50 – 70 GSM (Durable Packaging & Protective):** The benchmark specification for reusable non-woven shopping bags, garment covers, protective coveralls, and furniture dust covers.
  • **75 – 120+ GSM (Heavy Technical & Agriculture):** Applied in heavy-duty agricultural frost covers, mattress quilting backing, pocket spring wrapping, and industrial filtration support.

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