Abstract: This invention relates to materials which absorb and dissipate energy and/or selectively allow energy to be transmitted, methods of making same, and articles comprising such materials. In particular, polymeric materials which include polyol(s) such as, but not limited to, polyethers, polyesters, polyether/esters, acrylics, and combinations thereof, plus other formulary components such as hydroxyl-terminated polybutadienes, polyisocyanates, silicone, preferably RTV (room temperature vulcanizing) silicone, and, preferably, suitable catalysts, preferably organometallic catalysts such as DBTDL (dibutyl tin dilaurate). Included are such polymeric materials which are resilient and which resist compression and compression set while exhibiting energy absorbing properties. Optionally, additives may be functionally or cosmetically added.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for forming coated fibers suitable for making a composite article. A plurality of fibers are coated with an aqueous- or non-aqueous-based chemical treatment containing a curable resin such that the resin on the fibers is in a partially cured or uncured state. The coated fibers may then be formed into a composite article in a subsequent forming operation, for example, by filament winding, pultrusion, weaving, knitting, or extrusion coating. The strand of fibers may also be shaped into a preform which can be used in resin transfer molding (RTM) and injection molding processes.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for forming pre-impregnated fibers suitable for making a composite article. A plurality of fibers (14) are pre-impregnated with about 50% by weight of an aqueous-based chemical treatment containing a curable resin, and then contacted with a drying device (41) which effects drying of the chemical treatment without effecting full curing of the resin. The pre-impregnated fibers may then be formed into a composite article in a subsequent forming operation, for example, by filament winding, pultrusion, weaving, knitting, or extrusion coating.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for forming pre-impregnated fibers suitable for making a composite article. A plurality of fibers (14) are pre-impregnated with about 50 % by weight of an aqueous-based chemical treatment containing a curable resin, and then contacted with a drying device (41) which effects drying of the chemical treatment without effecting full curing of the resin. The pre-impregnated fibers may then be formed into a composite article in a subsequent forming operation, for example, by filament winding, pultrusion, weaving, knitting, or extrusion coating.