Abstract: An impact energy absorbing composite material of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) and an elastomer is disclosed. The composite is comprised of at least one layer of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene and at least one layer of an elastomer. The individual layer thicknesses of the ePTFE and elastomer are controlled to achieve superior high energy impact resistance. The invention herein provides a material having performance that also can be tailored to meet other design needs for a given application, for example, space considerations or comfort.

Abstract: The present invention relates to cold formable mouthguards that provide protection to the teeth, gums, jaw, and joints of the facial region and absorb and dissipate energy that would otherwise be transferred to the jaw, joints and brain, thus minimizing further injuries. A novel feature of the present invention is that the mouthguard can be shaped to retain the contours of the teeth and mouth by simply placing the mouthguard into the mouth and biting down, without the need for first boiling to soften or other complicated shaping step as is required in the prior art.