Abstract: The invention relates to a substrate coated with an oriented multilayer polymeric film comprising at least two layers of polymer particles oriented along two different directions with respect to one another. Such an oriented multilayer polymeric film has improved flexibility as well as improved gas barrier properties. A method of forming the film on a substrate is also disclosed.

Abstract: A curable vinyl ester resin composition capable of undergoing B-staging at room temperature comprises (a) an unmodified vinyl ester resin; (b) a reactive diluent consisting of an ethylenically unsaturated monomer; (c) a free-radical curing agent; (d) a B-staging agent comprising a Group II metal oxide or hydroxide, or a mixture thereof; and (e) a thickening agent comprising an ester, a ketone, an aldehyde or a mixture thereof. The thickening agent coacts with the B-staging agent to cause B-staging of the vinyl ester resin at room temperature. The vinyl ester resin composition according to the invention is particularly useful for impregnating a fibrous material such as a woven fabric material. The fibrous material impregnated with the vinyl ester resin composition of the invention has a shelf life of up to 12 months. B-staging is generally reached in about two weeks following mixture of the various components and impregnation of the fibrous material.