Abstract: Microfibers have been manufactured from dissolved cellulose, from which threads, yarns, and fabrics can be made. These cellulosic microfibers may be used to produce fabrics with the very soft feel that is characteristic of microfiber fabrics, and the water absorbency and comfort of cellulosic fabrics. Furthermore, since the microfiber diameter may be 2 &mgr;m or smaller (about the same size as dust particles and small oily droplets), these fabrics have an exceptional ability to remove dust and oil droplets from surfaces and gas streams, and are therefore useful in filter media. The novel microfibers may be manufactured by the continuous flow of dissolved cellulose through a converging die. Imposing orientation in the incipient microfiber prior to or during crystallization of the cellulose produces continuous fibers of substantial aspect ratio, without significant entanglement.

Abstract: Microfibers have been manufactured from dissolved cellulose, from which threads, yarns, and fabrics can be made. These cellulosic microfibers may be used to produce fabrics with the very soft feel that is characteristic of microfiber fabrics, and the water absorbency and comfort of cellulosic fabrics. Furthermore, since the microfiber diameter may be 2 .mu.m or smaller (about the same size as dust particles and small oily droplets), these fabrics have an exceptional ability to remove dust and oil droplets from surfaces and gas streams, and are therefore useful in filter media. The novel microfibers may be manufactured by the continuous flow of dissolved cellulose through a converging die. Imposing orientation in the incipient microfiber prior to or during crystallization of the cellulose produces continuous fibers of substantial aspect ratio, without significant entanglement.

Abstract: Novel fiber bundles may be produced as a by-product of sugar cane or other plants. These fiber bundles may be spun into a yarn, or formed into a non-woven mat. The non-woven mat is useful, for example, as a biodegradable geotextile for inhibiting erosion while allowing plants to become established on roadsides, or in other applications. Sugar cane fiber bundles were extracted from the Tilby-separated rind of cane stalks using alkaline treatments. The amount of lignin removed was dependent on alkaline concentration and time, pressure of treatment, and steam explosion conditions if employed. Agitation and vigorous boiling affected the lignin removal. Alkali concentration significantly affected the mechanical properties of the fiber bundles. Tenacity, toughness, and linear density were higher for the fibers extracted at lower alkali concentration. Bending rigidity and hysteresis of these fibers were also higher. This process is also expected to work with other plant stalks having a high lignin content.

Abstract: Rayon/nylon and other sheath/core composite fibers or other materials, with good adhesion between sheath and core resulting from an adhesion promoter. The adhesion promoter is difunctional and sterically hindered. Fumaric acid and terephthalic acid are preferred adhesion promoters for the composite fibers or other materials, because each compound has both difunctionality and steric hinderance, allowing either to form covalent bonds to both the sheath and the core. Fibers produced in accordance with this invention may be used to produce fabrics which have the strength and wrinkle resistance shown by a number of synthetic fibers, but with the water absorption characteristics of natural fibers such as cotton.

Abstract: Rayon/nylon and other sheath/core composite fibers or other materials, with good adhesion between sheath and core resulting from an adhesion promoter. The adhesion promoter is difunctional and sterically hindered. Fumaric acid and terephthalic acid are preferred adhesion promoters for the composite fibers or other materials, because each compound has both difunctionality and steric hinderance, allowing either to form covalent bonds to both the sheath and the core. Fibers produced in accordance with this invention may be used to produce fabrics which have the strength and wrinkle resistance shown by a number of synthetic fibers, but with the water absorption characteristics of natural fibers such as cotton.

Abstract: A sheath core fiber having an inner continuous core made from an oriented thermoplastic material, such as polyester, nylon, acrylic, and olefin, and a sheath made of a nonthermoplastic material, such as regenerated cellulose and protein. The fiber maintains the crease and tear resistance of the core material, yet has the water sorptivity and dyeability of the sheath material.A method of manufacturing such a fiber is also disclosed.

Abstract: A sheath core fiber having an inner continuous core made from an oriented thermoplastic material, such as polyester, nylon, acrylic, and olefin completely surrounded by an adherent continuous sheath which is not readily removable from said core, is retained on said core during ultimate usage of said fiber, and is made of a nonthermoplastic material, such as regenerated cellulose and protein. The fiber maintains the crease and tear resistance of the core material, yet has the water sorptivity and dyeability of the sheath material.A method of manufacturing such a fiber is also disclosed.