PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a method and an apparatus for producing a three-dimensional network structure which eliminate finishing in a post-process, enhance degree of arrangement, allow an irregular shape to be adapted, and improve durability. SOLUTION: The three-dimensional network structure 1 is a plate-like three-dimensional network structure obtained by helically and randomly entangling and partially heat-bonding a plurality of wires made of a thermoplastic resin as a raw material or main raw material. The density of any surface side of at least three or four surfaces of outer periphery of the three-dimensional network structure is preferably relatively lower than the density of a part except the surface side. A flaky or a chip-like material of a PET bottle is used as the raw material or main raw material of the thermoplastic resin, is directly pulverized and molten the PET bottle to form the flaky shape, and is adapted to a recycling promotion era, thereby enhancing cost reduction of waste disposal. A shock-absorbing material, a cushioning material, a sound-absorbing building material etc., are mainly cited as the uses of the three-dimensional network structure 1. COPYRIGHT: (C)2012,JPO&INPIT
