Abstract: Disclosed are multicomponent fibers which include a surface modified thermobondable non-biodegradable synthetic polymeric component and a biodegradable component. The surface modified thermobondable non-biodegradable component permits thermal bonding of the multicomponent fiber to other fibers with enhanced adhesion. The multicomponent fibers are useful in the manufacture of nonwoven structures, and in particular nonwoven structures used as a component in disposable absorbent products.

Abstract: Disclosed are multicomponent fibers wherein at least one component comprises a conventional, non-biodegradable synthetic polymer forming the exposed surface of the multicomponent fiber, thereby permitting thermal bonding of the multicomponent fiber to other fibers. The fibers also include at least one biodegradable component. The multicomponent fibers are useful in the manufacture of nonwoven structures, and in particular nonwoven structures used as a component in disposable absorbent products.

Abstract: A synthetic fiber forming apparatus is disclosed for the manufacture of a variety of synthetic fibers at an improved rate of efficiency and uniformity. The synthetic fiber forming apparatus includes a distribution plate and a metering plate which is positioned downstream of the distribution plate. The distribution plate contains at least one flow path which is in fluid flow connection with at least one exit hole in the distribution plate. The metering plate contains at least one orifice which is desirably positioned immediately downstream of the distribution plate exit hole, and which is adapted to meter the flow of a flowable material therethrough. The metering plate orifice is desirably smaller than the distribution plate exit hole and preferably a plurality of orifices are in fluid flow connection with a single distribution plate exit hole. The metering plate acts to provide a flowable material at a consistent pressure to the spinneret.