Abstract: A thermoformed contoured three-dimensional laminated structure having improved sound absorbing characteristics and which can be formed with shorter mold cycle times includes a porous thermoformable fibrous batt layer and a rigid foam layer. The laminated articles are suitable for use as decorative sound absorbing panels for automotive applications, and are well suited for use as vehicle headliners.

Abstract: The specification discloses a method for thermoforming three dimensionally contoured parts from a laminate comprising a stiff thermoformable polystyrene foam core to either side of which is laminated a porous, nonextendable rigidifying material and a fabric material. The porous, nonextendable rigidifying material is arranged so as to be subjected to two dimensional contouring but so as not to extend into areas of the laminate which will be subject to severe three dimensional contouring.

Abstract: A light-weight, roofing membrane, for application upon building roofs, formed of a fibrous sheet having one of its surfaces coated with a thin, continuous layer of asphalt bonded only to the outermost portion of the surface of the sheet, with the voids and crevices between the fibers, within the body of the sheet, being substantially free of asphalt. The membrane is made by chilling one surface of a fibrous sheet while flowing heated asphalt upon the opposite surface of the sheet and rapidly cooling the deposited asphalt so that it solidifies and bonds to the surface portion only of the sheet fibers before it flows into the body of the sheet. A layer of fine particles of silica-like sand is applied to the exposed surface of the asphalt and bonded thereto by the asphalt.