Abstract: A macroscopically expanded three-dimensional plastic web exhibiting a non-glossy visible surface, and, if desired, a cloth-like or fiber-like tactile impression. The visible surface of a macroscopically expanded three-dimensional plastic web of the present invention is preferably provided with a regularly spaced, microscopic pattern of surface aberrations which is too fine to be discernible by the naked eye when the perpendicular distance between the viewer's eye and the plane of said web is about 12 inches or greater, but which pattern is effective in substantially eliminating specular reflection of incident light. Said webs may be produced by means of a one-sided forming process wherein said surface aberrations are transmitted through the thickness of said web during processing or by means of a two-sided forming process wherein said surface aberrations are imposed directly onto the visible surface of said web.

Abstract: Apparatus for texturing a running ribbon of thermoplastic sheet material or film. The apparatus causes a ribbon of such film to be forwarded from a supply such as a roll of thermoplastic material, thence about a circumferentially extending portion of a rotating texturing cylinder, and then downstream where the textured film may be further processed or where it may be wound on a spool to form a roll thereof. The texturing cylinder comprises a tubular member having a coating of spheroidal particles adhered to the surface thereof. While the film is in contact with the texturing cylinder, it is both heated and urged against the texturing cylinder, causing the film to assume the textured image of the texturing cylinder. The apparatus may further control tension in the film both upstream and downstream of the texturing cylinder at predetermined constant levels.

Abstract: A method of and apparatus for texturing a running ribbon of thermoplastic sheet material or film. The apparatus causes a ribbon of such film to be forwarded from a supply such as a roll of thermoplastic material, then about a circumferentially extending portion of a rotating texturing cylinder, and then downstream where the textured film may be further processed or where it may be wound on a spool to form a roll thereof. The texturing cylinder comprises a tubular member having a coating of spheroidal particles adhered to the surface thereof. While the film is in contact with the texturing cylinder, it is both heated and urged against the texturing cylinder, causing the film to assume the textured image of the texturing cylinder. The apparatus may further control tension in the film both upstream and downstream of the texturing cylinder at predetermined constant levels.