Abstract: A method for making natural fibre products comprising embrittling natural fibres and breaking the embrittled fibres into nanoparticles, forming a suspension of the fibre nanoparticles in a spinnable liquid, and spinning fibre from the suspension. The method may be used to make fibres having the dimensions and properties of cashmere.

Abstract: Electrospinning from a melt or solution by means of an electric field between a fibre source such as a spinneret or a bubble surface and a moving collector comprising a wire card of which the wires are electrically connected. The spinneret or melt or solution may be held at high potential and the wires earthed. The method produces an aligned nanofibre web that can be made into strands, yarns, cable or rope or non-woven fabrics such as stitch bonded and stitch knitted fabric.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for assessing surface irregularities comprising directing a line beam at the surface, imaging the line on the surface formed by the line beam, and analysing data of the image to produce an objective indication of the degree of regularity of the surface.

Abstract: A measuring device useful for measuring mechanical properties of highly flexible or limp sheet materials. The device includes a base, a pair of clamping members, with one of the clamping members being movable away from and toward the second clamping member. A load sensor is mounted in one of the clamping means for measurement of the required mechanical properties.

Abstract: A measuring device useful for measuring mechanical properties of highly flexible or limp sheet materials. The device includes a base, a pair of clamping members, with one of the clamping members being movable away from and toward the second clamping member. A load sensor is mounted in one of the clamping means for measuring of the required mechanical properties.