Abstract: Thermobondable bicomponent synthetic fibers comprising a high-melting core component comprising a high density polyethylene with a density of more than 0.950 g/cm.sup.3, and a low-melting sheath component comprising a linear low density polyethylene with a density of less than 0.945 g/cm.sup.3, typically 0.921-0.944 g/cm.sup.3 are suitable for use in making non-woven fabrics. The fibers are particularly suitable for the preparation of thermally bonded non-woven fabrics for medical use and for non-wovens having superior softness.

Abstract: A thermobondable bicomponent synthetic fiber (8,14) with a length of at least about 3 mm, adapted to use in the blending of fluff pulp for the production of hygiene absorbent products, the fiber comprising an inner core component comprises a polyolefin or a polyester, the sheath component comprises a polyolefin, and the core component has a higher melting point than the sheath component, and a process for producing said fiber. The sheath-and-core type fiber is preferably made permanently substantially hydrophilic by incorporating s surface active agent into the sheath component. The long bicomponent fibers (20) form a strong supporting three-dimensional matrix structure (20,24) in the absorbent product upon thermobonding.

Abstract: A method for producing a cement material with reduced development of self-induced cracking, the method comprising:adding to a concrete, mortar or cement mix to which water has been added, an amount of 0.

Abstract: Reinforcing fibres made from polyolefin and polyolefin derivatives, the fibres having a thickness of 10-100 .mu.m and containing inorganic particles of a size of 1-10 .mu.m in an amount of at least 12% by weight, calculated on the total fibre weight, the particles being embedded in the polyolefin or polyolefin derivative, substantially none of the particles being exposed at fibre surfaces. The inorganic particles are preferably chalk or barium sulphate. The fibres are prepared from a fibrillated, stretched, blown or cast film, which may have been subjected to a surface treatment such as a corona treatment or application of avivage. The reinforcing fibers are useful in composite materials comprising an inorganic binder such as cement and puzzolane.