Abstract: The present invention provides composite materials comprising a population of cellulose fibers complexed with an activator, and an additive comprising synthetic fibers complexed with a tethering agent, wherein the tethering agent has an affinity for the activator, and wherein an interaction between the tethering agent and the activator attaches the synthetic fibers to the cellulose fibers to form the composite material. The present invention also provides methods of manufacture for such composite materials, and methods for their use, for example in forming gypsum board composites.

Abstract: The invention encompasses compositions and methods for the preparation thereof, wherein the composition comprises a polymeric foam that comprise a plurality of polymeric struts having an air-foam interface, wherein a composition comprising inorganic particulate matter is disposed upon the air-foam interface, the inorganic particulate material comprising inorganic particles coated with a hydrophobic amine modifier.

Abstract: Compositions and methods are disclosed for imparting ultraphobicity to substrates. Ultraphobicity can be exhibited by superhydrophobicity, oleophobicity, or both. In some instances, techniques for imparting ultraphobicity can include the use of particles that are appropriately configured. For instance, the particles can be arranged to form a roughened surface that enhances and/or imparts ultraphobicity. In another instance, the particles can have surfaces that repel at least one of a oil-based liquid and a water-based liquid. For example, the particles can be attached to an ultraphobic-inducing composition (e.g., copolymer) that comprises at least one polyamine segment and a plurality of branch segments. Such particles can be mixed with a binder composition to form a coating or film for imparting the ultraphobic properties. Other embodiments are directed to other techniques that can also aid in imparting ultraphobicity.

Abstract: Methods and materials are reveled relating to novel fibrous materials such as textiles. In some instances, methods are revealed for using various types of precursors for forming designated fiber patterns for textile sheets and structures. Such methods can provide tailored textiles with properties and features that are not achievable using typical woven fabrics and manufacturing techniques. Precursors can be utilized in conjunction with preformed fibers or existing textile materials to provide modified textiles as well.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for treating hair are disclosed. Such compositions and methods can be used to modify hair properties, such as imparting and/or maintaining a level of softness or a conditioning effect on hair. In general, such compositions can utilize a copolymer having a plurality of polycationic segments, which can be joined by various other polymeric segments such as silicones and/or hydrophilic polymeric segments. The copolymer can be formulated as a highly-branched polymer, which can add substantivity to the hair to impart a conditioning effect. Various details of such copolymers are discussed, as well as methods of utilizing and making such copolymers.