Abstract: Disclosed herein is a general purpose, low-cost, highly efficient, biodegradable multi-layer, passive thermal insulator material that can be used for packaging in any application where tight temperature tolerance is required for extended periods. The material comprises inner layers between two outer layers. The outer layers can be themselves multiple layers that may provide strength and moisture protection to the structure. The inner layers can comprise a series of alternating courses of continuous material and discontinuous material containing gaps that can form pockets where the continuous layers are arranged to provide a barrier to seal a gas in the pockets in the discontinuous material.

Abstract: An absorbent web formed from inflated cellulose fibers said webs possessing improved vertical wicking properties compared to a similar web of cellulose fibers. The webs have been found to be particularly well suited for use in forming absorbent products such as diapers and the like. In one aspect of the present invention, the inflated cellulose fibers are generally free of a surface finish. In a second aspect the inflated cellulose fibers are crosslinked.