Abstract: The present invention relates to a curable composition having an oligomer, at least one monomer, and an amount of a substantially non-reactive oligomeric additive. The substantially non-reactive oligomeric additive is present in an amount effective to yield a cured product having a fracture toughness value that is higher than the fracture toughness value of a cured product of an otherwise identical composition lacking the non-reactive oligomeric additive. The present invention also relates to coated optical fibers, optical ribbons or bundles, and telecommunication systems having the curable composition.

Abstract: Two-layer protective coating system for glass surfaces is disclosed. The base coating comprises at least one polysaccharide, and the top coating has a lower solubility in water than the base coating. The coating system provides good protection against contaminants and glass chips, good removability in mild cleaning condition, and extra water resistance during process steps where water is used as a cooling agent.