Abstract: Reinforcement of structures in high-moisture environments is achieved by applying reinforcement layers which include a fabric portion and an uncured resin portion where the uncured resin contains a moisture curable silicon-modified polyether resin. The uncured reinforcement layer is cured in place about the structure to form a composite reinforcement shell. The uncured reinforcement layer is formed from either dry-woven fabric or woven fabric which is pre-impregnated with a cured resin and then coated with the moisture-curable silicon-modified polyether resin. The invention finds particular use in reinforcing bridge supports and pilings which are at least partially submerged in water. Containment layers are used to prevent de-lamination during curing of the reinforcement structure. Use of a containment layer not only prevents de-lamination caused by waves or other turbulent water, but also enhances the underwater curing process.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to polymer compositions containing a vinyl polymer component (A), formed by polymerization of .alpha.,.beta.-ethylenically unsaturated monomers, one which contains at least one hydroxyl group and one which contains no hydroxyl groups; a crosslinker component (B); an additive component (C); and a solvent component (D). The composition is useful for backcoating woven substrates and as a binder composition for non-woven substrates.

Abstract: A film comprises glass fiber impregnated with a low dielectric polymer obtained by polymerizing a monomeric composition comprising a fumaric acid diester monomer and optionally a vinyl monomer. The polymer having a low dielectric constant and reduced dielectric loss is used as an electrically insulating material in a high frequency band of at least 500 MHz.

Abstract: A method for preparing an uncured supported elastomer material includes the steps of: providing a fibrous reinforcement material; providing a layer of uncured elastomer material substantially adjacent to the fibrous reinforcement material; exposing the layer and the fibrous reinforcement to a temperature below a curing temperature and above a flow point of the uncured elastomer material, and a pressure sufficient that the uncured elastomer material flows into the fibrous reinforcement material, so as to provide an uncured supported elastomer material.

Abstract: A method of directing extruded synthetic fibers toward at least one surface of a mineral fiber insulation batt, and corresponding apparatus and resulting product. In certain embodiments, a row of extrusion heads is provided for directing extruded synthetic fibers (e.g. fibers including ethyl vinyl acetate or EVA) toward a surface(s) of the batt(s) to be impregnated with same. Optionally, extrusion heads may be provided all around the batts so as to impregnate substantially all surfaces thereof with the extruded synthetic fibers. As the fibers exit the heads, they are hit with pressurized heated air streams which cause them to go into an insipid spin which increases directional tensile strength of the resulting batt in all directions. In certain embodiments, every other batt of a plurality of batts passes over an elongated member which extends over top of the conveyor in order to more efficiently impregnate edge surfaces of the batts.

Abstract: Glass matt reinforced thermoplastics suitable for the production of paintable parts, comprisinga) a thermoplastic matrix polymer of a viscosity under processing conditions corresponding to a melt flow index (MFI 230/2.16) of polypropylene of at least 250 g/10 min andb) one or more glass matts which, upon heating, bring about an expansion of the glass matt reinforced thermoplastics to at least 2.5 times the original thickness, optionally in combination withc) an addition of fine-particle, mineral fillers.

Abstract: Disclosed are fibrous mat-faced gypsum boards with improved resistance to skin irritation and itching. The boards include a mat facing in which the fibrous portion thereof comprises both inorganic and organic fibers, with organic fibers preferably being present in amount from about 5% to about 25% by weight of the total fibers.

Abstract: A thermal and acoustical insulation product prepared from a mixture of fiberglass, scrap nylon of less than 0.25" in length and a thermo-setting resin. The insulation product is in a ductliner or molded form. The fiberglass will generally be in a concentration of from 20 to 80 percent by weight of the product; the nylon will be from 1 to 30 percent by weight of the product; and the thermo-setting resin will be from 5 to 35 percent by weight of the product.

Abstract: A method of preparing an adhesive composite is provided where a fluoropolymer having nodes and interconnected fibrils with a void volume formed from the node and interconnected fibril structure is at least partially filled with a paste formed from a thermoset or thermoplastic adhesive and a particulate vapor phase formed inorganic filler having uniform surface curvature, sufficient adhesive and filler are present to provide a composite having between about 5 to about 40 volume percent polymeric substrate, 10-95 volume percent adhesive and filler imbibed within the voids of said substrate and 5 to 85 volume percent inorganic filler is contained within the composite. In the composite, the ratio of mean flow pore size to largest particle size is at least above 0.7; or the ratio of mean flow pore size to average particle size is greater than 1.5; or the ratio of minimum pore size to average particle size is at least above 0.8; or the ratio of minimum pore size to largest particle size is at least above 0.4.

Abstract: A fiber insulation product is provided which includes a fibrous material having a binder dispersed throughout. The binder comprises an inorganic material having thermoplastic properties. Preferably, the binder is a low-melting glass composition or a glass-forming compound such as, for example, boric acid. The insulation product is ideally suited for use in insulation panels having a compressed board encased in a evacuated jacket, high temperature, low smoke, odorless and building insulation applications.

Abstract: A gel-fiber glass (GFG) is a newly-formed sol-gel glass polymerized from tetramethoxysilane on the surface of activated glass wool fibers or activated fibrous glass. GFG is a support for trapped chemical or biochemical reagents. A thin layer of reagents trapped in gel glass during its preparation is present on the surface of a lattice of glass fibers. Columns for affinity chromatography were prepared from the GFG membranes with entrapped antigens or antibodies and were used to isolate different proteins, including tumor-associated antigens; GFG membrane demonstrated high effectiveness and stability, and can isolate proteins in extremely high amounts. The membranes can be used in diagnostic practice, generation of specific antibodies and therapy.

Abstract: A glass fiber mat includes glass fibers saturated with a binder and then cured. A predetermined pattern of relatively high and low concentrations of binder is formed throughout the length of the glass fiber mat. The pattern produces at least one portion of the mat having a relatively high concentration of binder adjoining a portion of the mat having a relatively low concentration of binder. The pattern of high and low binder concentration is produced during a wet process. Liquid binder is either selectively applied to the glass fibers via an applicator or selectively removed from the glass fibers via a vacuum. Cover panels having predetermined slot configurations are used with vacuum boxes to create the desired pattern. Such glass fiber mats can be cut along an area of high binder concentration to produce cut edges which resist breaking and tearing. Shingles formed from such glass fiber mats have improved tear resistance and pliability.

Abstract: The invention disclosed herein is a synthetic reinforcing strand of filaments in which the strand density is reduced by spacing the filaments apart along their length with heat expandable hollow particles such as plastic microspheres expanded into microballoons and the method of making such strands. Also embodied in the invention are methods utilizing such strands in processes for making composite structures.

Abstract: An electrical substrate material is presented comprising a thermosetting matrix of polybutadiene or polyisoprene in an amount of 25 to 50 volume %; a woven glass fabric in an amount of 10 to 40 volume %; a particulate, preferably ceramic filler, in an amount of from 5 to 60 volume %; and a flame retardant. Importantly, the composition comprises only a single resin, i.e., polybutadiene or polyisoprene. A peroxide cure initiator and/or crosslinking agent may optionally be added. The presence of a very high surface area particulate filler, preferably fumed silica, is also preferred, in that its presence results in a prepreg which has very little tackiness and can therefore be easily handled by operators. This low tackiness feature allows for the use of conventional automated layup processing, including foil cladding, using one or more known roll laminators.

Abstract: Methods for making nonwoven fibrous mats that produce superior tear strengths in roofing products, and the mats produced by the method, are disclosed. The mats comprise glass fiber bonded together with a dried and cured mixture of aqueous urea formaldehyde resin and a self crosslinking copolymer of vinyl acrylic or polyvinyl acetate.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for the preparation of the fibre product pre-impregnated with a polymer (prepreg) where the method includes: a) coating the fibres with a powder comprising at least one polymer and optionally an agent having the ability to initiate the polymerization reaction of the polymer, b) adding to the composition obtained in step a) a solvent possessing the ability to dissolve the polymer but lacking the ability to initiate the polymerization reaction of the polymer, and c) evaporating the solvent. Alternatively, the polymer (optionally including the initiating agent) can first be dissolved in the solvent after which the fibres are contacted with the solution thus obtained and the solvent is evaporated. The surface of the fibres is preferably treated so as to facilitate the bonding of the polymer to the fibres, whereafter the surface treated fibres are coated with the polymer powder.

Abstract: Fire resistant glass fiber products are produced by coating the glass fibers with at least one nitrogen containing compound and at least 10 weight percent of at least one boron containing compound, drying the glass fibers and curing a binder that is in the coating. The nitrogen containing compound(s) are present in sufficient amounts that there is at least one mol or atom of nitrogen present for each mol or atom of boron present in the boron containing compound(s). When the product is exposed to a fire or high temperatures, such as about 1000 degrees F. or higher, the nitrogen released from the nitrogen containing compound(s) reacts with boron or boron oxide to form a sheath of refractory material around the fibers that protects the fibers and allows the fibers to maintain integrity to higher temperatures and/or for longer times than untreated fibers.

Abstract: The present invention relates to thermoplastically formable composite materials of reinforcing fibers in a polyamide 12 matrix, characterized in that the polyamide 12 matrix consists of anionically polymerized laurin-lactam maximally containing 15 weight-% of co-monomers and selectively additives which are determined on the basis of production, processing and use. The invention furthermore relates to a process for producing these composite materials, in accordance with which an activated anionic lactam 12 melt is prepared, which penetrates the fiber arrangement in the liquid state, so that it forms the matrix for a shaped body, the activated melt is final-polymerized under the effects of temperature and pressure in a mold or a tool in such a way that the shape is achieved, and the pre-formed part is subjected to an after-shaping step under the effects of pressure and temperature, if desired.

Abstract: To enhance the tear strength without increasing the thickness, a woven glass cloth having a mass of 15 to 30 g/m.sup.2, for use as a base material for printed wiring board material, is characterized in that the weft or warp is provided by a 75 denier or more strand, thicker than the warp, and thread count of the thicker strand per unit length is set smaller than that of the other strand.

Abstract: A nonwoven fabric of chemically bonded non-cellulose fibers having improved wet tensile properties. The fabric includes a random arrangement of non-cellulose fibers and an essentially formaldehyde free latex binder. The latex binder contains at least about 6.7 wt % vinyl cyanide monomer to bond the non-cellulose fibers and form a nonwoven fabric having at least a 10% improvement in wet tensile strength over a comparable nonwoven fabric having a latex binder essentially free of formaldehyde and free of vinyl cyanide monomer in the monomeric mixture.

Abstract: A structural reaction injection molded motor vehicle bumper beam comprises a preform formed of layers of interlaced glass fibers and chopped glass fibers wherein most of the interlaced fibers are oriented longitudinally of the bumper beam. A two-component, non-filled reaction injection molding polymeric/pure polyurethane based resin with a neat elongation in excess of about 50% bonds the fiberglass layers together in a composite bumper beam structure wherein the fiberglass provides substantial strength and stiffness and the highly compliant resin allows extensive beam deflection without catastrophic cracking to enable the bumper beam without other assistance to absorb sufficient energy in repeated impacts to meet in-service requirements.

Abstract: An orthopedic casting material is disclosed comprising a water-curable, isocyanate-functional prepolymer. The prepolymer comprises the reaction product of a polyisocyanate and a polyol having an HLB number per hydroxy group less than zero.

Abstract: A woven glass fabric reinforcement for paper or resinous articles made of continuous glass filament warp yarns and weft yarns is provided. At least one of the warp yarns and the weft yarns is a zero-twist yarn made of continuous glass filaments having a diameter of between about 5 and 13 microns and a yarn count of between about 5.5 and 136 Tex.

Abstract: A new thermoformable nonwoven fibrous mat having properties particularly suited for a facer on insulating gypsum board and the method of making the mat is disclosed. The mat can also be pleated or thermoformed to produce filter elements and preforms for producing a wide range of fiber reinforced composites and laminates. The mat preferably contains a major portion of glass fibers and a minor portion of polyester fibers bound together with up to 35 wt. percent of a cross linked vinyl chloride acrylate copolymer binder having a glass transition temperature as high as about 113 degrees F., preferably about 97 degrees F. The binder also optionally contains about 3-10 wt. percent stearylated melamine.

Abstract: A bitumen-based waterproofing membrane is provided with an improved edge for sealing with a contiguous membrane to provide a membrane system with improved waterproofing characteristics. A bitumen-based reinforced membrane sheet is coated with granular material to protect the membrane sheet from ultraviolet rays. However, a section of the membrane sheet is first covered with a piece of protective tape which prevents any granular material from being deposited on the lateral section of exposed bitumen beneath the tape. The membrane sheets are then cut immediately prior to the tape or at the edge of the granular coating and then rolled up. Accordingly, the lateral section of bitumen which is covered by the protective tape is on the innermost part of the rolled-up membrane sheet. During installation, the tape is removed and the exposed bitumen or selvage section is disposed below an adjacent or contiguous membrane. Heat is then applied for an easy and effective seal between two adjacent membrane sheets.

Abstract: An improved translucent architectural fabric reinforced fluoroplastic composite is described exhibiting a transmission of normally incident visible light of at least about 23%, and when subjected to 1:1 biaxial loads up to 25% of the uniaxial tensile breaking strength of the fabric, exhibits a biaxial elongation value in the warp direction that is greater than 0 but less than 1.0%, and a biaxial elongation value in the fill direction that is greater than biaxial elongation value in the warp direction but less than 10%.

Abstract: A composite panel is provided which includes a resin matrix having embedded therewithin alternating layers of particulates and flexible sheeting. The composite panel is capable of supporting its own weight and exhibits impact resistance and shatter resistance. Preferably, the resin is transparent, the particulates are decorative, and the flexible sheeting becomes transparent upon curing of the resin. The composite panels are included within articles such as tables, desks, other furniture, vertical partitions, decorative panels, doors, windows and floors. Also included is a method of making the composite panels by molding layers of these materials within an open mold.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of preparing an orthopedic cast comprising the step of coating a porous flexible substrate with a water-curable resin composition composed of a water-reactive alkoxysilane terminated resin having at least one hydrolyzable group per molecule. The resin composition has a viscosity of no greater than about 500 Pa-s under ambient conditions and contains less than about 1 wt-% of a solvent, based on the total weight of the resin composition.

Abstract: A mineral fiber (e.g. fiberglass) thermal insulation batt is disclosed wherein a base mineral fiber layer is impregnated with a two-layer layering system so as to produce a batt which is substantially vapor impermeable with a perm vapor rating less than about one. The first layer of the layering system is of a low melt material while the second layer is of a high melt material, the first layer being sandwiched between the base insulating layer and the second layer, and functioning to bond the layering system to the base. In certain embodiments, the first layer includes quick blooming ethyl vinyl acetate (e.g. from about 10-25%) and a low density (e.g. 22-26 lbs. per cubic foot) polyethylene, and the second layer includes high density (e.g. 28-38 lbs. per cubic foot) polyethylene. The resulting insulation batt is vapor impermeable, less susceptible to cold-crack, easier to manufacture, a better fire retardant, more durable, and easier to handle.

Abstract: An air filtration media is formed of a blanket of fibers, preferably glass fibers, bonded together at their points of intersection with a binder. The blanket has a weight between about 2.5 and about 4.0 grams per square foot and the average diameter of the fibers in the blanket is within a range from 3.0 .times.10.sup.-5 to 4.1.times.10.sup.-5 inches. The blanket has an average air filtration efficiency of at least 80% and the pressure drop across the thickness of the blanket is no greater than 0.30 inches of water. The blanket can be used alone; with a permeable backing sheet; or with a second layer or blanket of filtration media, as part of a dual-phase or multi-phase air filtration media.

Abstract: The glass cloth canvas of the present invention comprises a glass cloth having a mass of not less than 100 g/m.sup.2 and a thickness of not less than 0.10 mm and surface-coated with one or more resins selected from acrylic, urethane and melamine resins in an amount of 10 g/m.sup.2 or more.

Abstract: Structure, composition and method in which a fiber reinforcement is impregnated with an interpenetrating network of a light cure resin and a thermosetting resin which are independently curable, enabling autobody component repair, electronic assembly bonding, etc. by selective cure first of one or the other resin, and the support against fluid flow of the uncured resin by the first cured resin.

Abstract: Glass fiber for non-woven fabric base material of a laminate having a surface treated by sizing agent essentially comprising silane coupling agent and dispersing agent, and said silane coupling agent including epoxy-silane and styryl amino-silane.

Abstract: This invention concerns a sheet for producing plastic films with a tear-resistant layer and a plastic layer that is applied to the former and has a surface that faces away from the tear-resistant layer and is suitable for applying liquid or pasty plastics for the plastic film to be produced. The surface of the layer of plastic which is preferably a negative of a relief pattern consists of polypropylene. The sheet permits a high fidelity in reproduction of the relief pattern plus a long lifetime as well. The sheet may be relatively thin, so a great length can be wound up on a roll. Therefore, great lengths of a plastic film can be produced in one piece by casting or spreading liquid plastic on the sheet. Therefore, the conversion time required for the manufacturing installation is short, which has a positive effect on the price of the product.

Abstract: Glass ribbon-reinforced transparent polymer composites which provide excellent optical transparency and a low distortion level over a wide temperature range while exhibiting superior mechanical properties as compared to non-reinforced polymer counterparts, and equivalent properties as compared to glass fiber-reinforced counterparts.

Abstract: The present invention provides an article, comprising: a fabric sheet which has been compacted using a heat shrink yarn; and a curable or hardenable resin coated onto the fabric sheet. The present invention involves compacting a fabric sheet to impart stretchability and conformability to the fabric while minimizing undesirable recovery forces. Suitable fabrics for compacting are fabrics which comprise fiberglass fibers which are capable of first being compacted and then being heat set or annealed in the compacted state. The article may be in the form of an orthopedic bandage and may optionally contain a micro fiber filler associated with the resin.

Abstract: The addition polymerization resin systems phthalonitrile, diethynyldiphenyl methane, phenolic triazine, and polyphosphazene are disclosed as the matrix constituent in fiber-reinforced ablative nozzle components. Various types of fibers such as carbon fibers, preferably rayon and polyacrylonitrile (PAN) based, graphite fibers, glass fibers, ceramic fibers, and silica fibers may be used in the nozzle composite materials. Fillers, such as carbon black, ground silica, ground petroleum coke, and microballoons, may also be included in the ablative nozzle components. The fiber-reinforced ablative nozzle components include from about 20% to about 40% resin, by weight, from about 45% to about 60% fiber, by weight, and when present, from about 3% to about 15% filler, by weight.

Abstract: The present invention relates to storage-stable advanced polymaleimide compositions and prepreg products manufactured therefrom comprising (A) an advanced polymaleimide reaction product resulting from the advancement reaction of a polyimide and an alkenyl phenol; and (B) a phenothiazine added to component (A) after advancement.

Abstract: Smoke containment curtains formed of flexible, smoke impermeable fabric formed of a fiberglass fabric substrate coated with a smoke impervious composition on at least one side. The coating includes a halide-free fire retardant incorporated into a halide-free acrylic or silicone resin. The resulting fabric has an LC.sub.50 of greater than 50 grams.

Abstract: A prepreg comprising a reinforcing material impregnated with a curable material. The curable material comprises a blend of a fluorine-containing cyanate and a fluorine-containing arylene ether polymer. The cyanate is a monomer having the structureN.tbd.C--O--R--[R.sup.1 ].sub.n --O--C.tbd.Nand the fluorine containing arylene ether polymer has the structureX--R--[R.sup.1 ].sub.m --Xwherein X is any group capable of reacting with a --C.tbd.N group;R is an aliphatic or aromatic group which may or may not be fluorosubstituted;R.sup.1 is an aliphatic or aromatic group which may or may not be fluoro substituted or R.sup.1 is selected from the group consisting of ether, carbonyl, sulfone, phosphine oxide and sulfide, and at least one of R or R.sup.1 must be fluoro substituted;n is 0-10; andm is 0-100.The material in the cured state comprises a fluorine-containing polycyanurate network having a plurality of discrete phases of the fluorine-containing thermoplastic polymer dispersed therein.