Abstract: A matrix for use in a method of photocatalytically decomposing organic compounds in a fluid includes a fiber glass mat substrate carrying a photocatalytic material. The fiber glass mat is made of randomly oriented glass fibers that have been substantially filamentized and needled whereby the filaments are interlocked. Adhesion of the photocatalytic material to the substrate is provided without requiring heat cleaning of the fiber glass by controlling the organic content of the fiber glass mat to be less than 1.0 percent by weight as measured by loss on ignition. This is achieved by using sizing compositions that preferably have little or no film forming polymer content.

Abstract: Organo-metal oxide chelates stable in aqueous compositions are provided by the reaction of metal alkoxide--where the metal is titanium, zinc, tungsten, or tin--and a polyalkylene glycol. Specific compounds are the reaction product of tetra alkyl titanates with diethylene glycol. Aqueous coating compositions containing the chelates may be applied to fiber glass at the filament stage or after forming into mats. When heat treated, the coated fiber glass serves as photocatalytic media.

Abstract: The subject matter of this invention relates to a method and apparpatus for making mats of continuous glass fiber strands in which a heated calendering roll and continuous belt are used to compact the mat, expel excess noisture, melt, and/or cure resin previously distributed throughout the glass strand. The resin may be deposited in the mat in the form of a powdered resin or as continuous thread of material that is combined with the remaining strands that form the mat as the glass strands are projected onto the surface of a moving conveyor to form the mat.