Abstract: A method of making nonwoven webs comprising providing a spinneret including a pattern of conduits forming an extrusion region; directing only a first stream of molten propylene polymer into a region adjacent the first side of the spinneret, directing only a second stream of molten propylene polymer into a region distal to the first side of the spinneret, extruding only the first stream propylene polymer through the exit openings in a first zone where the exit opening comprises exit ports in the first zone having a first density; extruding only the second stream propylene polymer through the exit openings of a second zone where the exit opening comprises exit ports in the second zone having a second density less than the first density; and the second zone is distal to the first side with the first zone being between the second zone and the first side.

Abstract: A fiber that has a unique surface topography in that it contains a plurality of nanohairs extending outwardly from an external surface of an elongate structure of the fiber is provided. To form the nanohairs, a polymer composition is spun that includes organofunctional nanoparticles (e.g., polyhedral organofunctional silsesquioxanes) embedded within a matrix of a base polymer. Despite being initially embedded within the polymer, the present inventors have discovered that, through selective control over the nature and relative concentration of the components of the composition, as well as the method in which the fiber is formed, a substantial portion of the nanoparticles can migrate to the surface of the fiber as it is formed and thus become arranged in the form of nanohairs.

Abstract: A technique for forming fibers (e.g., nanofibers, microfibers, etc.) from an aqueous spinning solution is provided. Through careful control over the nature and relative concentration of the components in the solution, fibers can be formed that remain relatively water resistant. To help accomplish these unique features, a pH-sensitive polymer is employed in the spinning solution that is generally soluble in water at a certain pH value, yet generally insoluble in water at a different pH value. This property allows for selective adjustment of the pH both before and after spinning to control the water-solubility of the polymer as desired.

Abstract: A biodegradable delivery system for actives such as pharmaceutical drugs. The delivery system includes actives infused into the capsid of a purified plant virus. The loaded capsids are embedding in electrospun biodegradable polymer fibers, forming a nonwoven fabric.

Abstract: A nonwoven fabric has been developed as a delivery system for drugs or other actives which includes biodegradable and biocompatible fibers with plant virus nanoparticles. The plant virus nanoparticles are pre-loaded with one or more actives.