Abstract: A low cost, high performance flexible reinforcement member that can be used for both optical and copper communications cable. The reinforcement members made according to the preferred process are more rigid than known reinforcement members, but are less rigid than glass pultruded rods. Communications cables utilizing these members are lightweight and exhibit an improved combination of strength and flexibility compared to traditional communications cables. Further, these communication cables may then be installed into underground ducts using more economical and faster installation techniques.

Abstract: An improved high-speed fiber assembly is provided comprising one or more dampening bars, an intake assembly, and feed tubes for transferring one or more fibers from an intermediate winding into one or more mechanisms for additional processing such as tensioning, prepregging, rewinding, weaving, or pultrusion.

Abstract: A premise cable having a plurality of inorganic fibers for protecting and suspending a plurality of optical fibers within a polymer jacket. The inorganic fibers, preferably fiberglass fibers, do not generate smoke or fire and thus offer an improvement over traditional polyaramid fibers used as reinforcement materials in premise cables. A sizing composition is applied to the inorganic fibers to prevent ribbonization of the inorganic fibers, thereby preventing attenuation of the optical fibers caused by such a ribbonization and also allowing a uniform distribution of fiberglass fibers around the optical fibers to further protect the optical fibers.

Abstract: A premises cable having a plurality of inorganic fibers for protecting and suspending a plurality of optical fibers within a polymer jacket. The inorganic fibers, preferably glass fibers, do not generate smoke or fire and thus offer an improvement over traditional polyaramid fibers used as reinforcement materials in premises cables. A sizing composition is applied to the inorganic fibers to prevent ribbonization of the inorganic fibers, thereby preventing attenuation of the optical fibers caused by such a ribbonization and also allowing a uniform distribution of glass fibers around the optical fibers to further protect the optical fibers.

Abstract: A premise cable having a plurality of inorganic fibers for protecting and suspending a plurality of optical fibers within a polymer jacket. The inorganic fibers, preferably glass fibers, do not generate smoke or fire and thus offer an improvement over traditional polyaramid fibers used as reinforcement materials in premise cables. A sizing composition is applied to the inorganic fibers to prevent ribbonization of the inorganic fibers, thereby preventing attenuation of the optical fibers caused by such a ribbonization and also allowing a uniform distribution of glass fibers around the optical fibers to further protect the optical fibers.

Abstract: Articles coated with a water-resistant coating that absorbs water to provide the water-resistant effect, and desorbs water when the coating is dried, and a method of providing water resistance and corrosion resistance to articles prepared with such coatings. The coating is formed by applying a composition comprising an aqueous solution of a superabsorbent water-soluble polymer precursor, optionally a viscosity modifying agent, and optionally a lubricant onto the surfaces of the article, and curing to form a coating comprising the superabsorbent polymer.

Abstract: A string binder is disclosed which is useful for making reinforcing articles for use in the manufacture of molded composite articles. The string binder comprises a fibrous substrate with a chemical treatment, applied thereto, comprising an epoxy, a polyurethane, at least one curing agent, a thickener, and a filler. Additionally, the string binder may be co-roved with one or more ends of a separate fibrous pre-form material to make a product suitable for use in various molding application. The filler, preferably a calcium carbonate filler, of the present invention improves surface characteristics of the finished reinforcing articles by minimizing or eliminating surface fiber prominence and blistering. The string binder made with fillers additionally reduces manufacturing costs and raw material costs as compared with string binders made without such fillers.

Abstract: A coating composition for forming a water-resistant coating on fiber-reinforced articles such as rods or cables. The composition comprises an aqueous solution of a superabsorbent water-soluble polymer, a viscosity modifying agent, and optionally a lubricant. The coating formed by applying the composition effectively prevents the treated surface from water-permeation damage by absorbing water that contacts the layer containing the superabsorbent component.