Abstract: In order to produce a nonwoven fabric having elastomeric properties spun filaments (1), consisting preferably (but not essentially) of cellulose material such as cellulose acetate or solvent spun rayon, not in yarn formats, are corrugated or crimped in an overfeed process, as in stuffer box (6), into stabilized three dimensional batts. A proportion of filaments (3) of a thermal memory material, such as modified polyester, in a stretched format are included. The resulting batt is then subjected to controlled hydroentangling and a controlled heat treatment to yield three dimensional nonwoven fabrics with elastomeric properties due to contraction of the stretched filaments. Elastomeric memory material activated to shrink by ultrasonic treatment may be used in place of thermal memory material. The elastomeric properties can be adjusted to suit end-use requirements and applications are envisaged in the medical and hygiene areas.

Abstract: A plurality of substantially parallel continuous filaments, e.g. of cellulose acetate or rayon, and preferably newly formed, are consolidated or partially stabilized, e.g. by application of solvent and pressure, by hydroentanglement, by embossing, or by crimping and stretching. The filament assembly or subassemblies thus produced are further stabilized by folding, bundling, twisting or intertwining, e.g. to form braids (10), and are then bonded to a carrier layer or sandwiched between outer layers (12, 14), e.g. by hydroentanglement, melt blowing, spinbonding etc. The stabilized filament assemblies may be arranged spaced transversely and may be cut just prior to bonding so as also to provide longitudinally spaced three dimensionally thicker regions, ready for conversion to finished products such as absorbant feminine hygiene products or medical swabs or the like.

Abstract: A plurality of substantially parallel continuous filaments, e.g. of cellulose acetate or rayon, and preferably newly formed, are consolidated or partially stabilised, e.g. by application of solvent and pressure, by hydroentanglement, by embossing, or by crimping and stretching. The filament assembly or subassemblies thus produced are further stablised by folding, bundling, twisting or intertwining, e.g. to form braids (10), and are then bonded to a carrier layer or sandwiched between outer layers (12, 14), e.g. by hydroentanglement, melt blowing, spinbonding etc. The stablised filament assemblies may be arranged spaced transversely and may be cut just prior to bonding so as also to provide longitudinally spaced three dimensionally thicker regions, ready for conversion to finished products such as absorbant feminine hygiene products or medical swabs or the like.

Abstract: A plurality of substantially parallel continuous filaments, e.g. of cellulose acetate or rayon, and preferably newly formed, are consolidated or partially stabilised, e.g. by application of solvent and pressure, by hydroentanglement, by embossing, or by crimping and stretching. The filament assembly or subassemblies thus produced are further stablised by folding, bundling, twisting or intertwining, e.g. to form braids (10), and are then bonded to a carrier layer or sandwiched between outer layers (12, 14), e.g. by hydroentanglement, melt blowing, spinbonding etc. The stablised filament assemblies may be arranged spaced transversely and may be cut just prior to bonding so as also to provide longitudinally spaced three dimensionally thicker regions, ready for conversion to finished products such as absorbant feminine hygiene products or medical swabs or the like.