Abstract: A solution for forming a graft substrate containing a graft initiator, a catalyst for activating the graft initiator, a first component of water dispersable polymer and a second component of a monomer, each of which includes a functional group for reaction with an activated site on the substrate for grafting thereto and water. A method for grafting at least one of the components to a fiber, yarn or fabric substrate is also disclosed wherein increased flame retarding and yarn integrity is achieved while simultaneously allowing control of fabric porosity. This method does not significantly reduce fabric pliability as compared to uncoated fabric. Furthermore, the graft component may be selectively applied polymer to produce a preferred porosity range or a cutting pattern for the fabric substrate. A fabric, a portion of which includes a graft component or components thereon, forms another embodiment of the invention.

Abstract: A composite fabric structure comprising a plurality of warp and fill fibers or yarns forming a fabric substrate which is impregnated with a matrix material which contains a plurality of cells which impart compressibility to the fabric substrate. This fabric may be used, for example, in a composite structure for use with one or more additional layers or coatings. Articles which may be formed from the composite structure include gaskets, packing materials, flexible diaphragms or printing blankets. In the printing blankets, one or more of a vulcanized rubber layer, a fabric layer and a compressible layer may be included.

Abstract: A method for making an air bag by forming a fabric structure of filaments or yarns in the configuration of an air bag, and grafting first and/or second components onto some or all of the filaments or yarns to provide the fabric structure with increased resistance to fraying, filament or yarn pull-out, or distortion during manufacture or use of the air bag compared to non-grafted filaments or yarns. The graft component(s) may be applied to the filaments or yarns prior to, during or after formation of the fabric structure. An air bag material suitable for use in a passive restraint system is also disclosed utilizing grafted fabric substrate provided by the above described method. A passive restraint system utilizing such fabrics is also described.

Abstract: A solution for forming a graft substrate containing a graft initiator, a catalyst for activating or regenerating the graft initiator, a first component of water dispersable polymer and a second component of a monomer, each of which includes a functional group for reaction with an activated site on the substrate for grafting thereto and water. A method for grafting at least one of the components to a fiber, yarn or fabric substrate is also disclosed wherein increased flame retarding and yarn integrity is achieved while simultaneously allowing control of fabric porosity. This method does not significantly reduce fabric pliability as compared to uncoated fabric. Furthermore, the graft component may be selectively applied polymer to produce a preferred porosity range or a cutting pattern for the fabric substrate. A fabric, a portion of which includes a graft component or components thereon, forms another embodiment of the invention.

Abstract: A composite fabric structure comprising a plurality of warp and fill fibers or yarns forming a fabric substrate which is impregnated with a matrix material which contains a plurality of cells which impart compressibility to the fabric substrate. This fabric may be used, for example, in a composite structure for use with one or more additional layers or coatings. Articles which may be formed from the composite structure include gaskets, packing materials, flexible diaphragms or printing blankets. In the printing blankets, one or more of a vulcanized rubber layer, a fabric layer and a compressible layer may be included.

Abstract: A coated fabric comprising a fabric substrate and a coating thereupon, said coating comprising a plurality of layers wherein at least one of the layers comprises a polyester polyurethane having a Shore A hardness of at least 90 durometer, or a linear polyurethane elastomer formed from a polyol; a diisocyanate compound; a first extender component having a molecular weight of below about 500; and a second extender component; wherein the diisocyanate compound is initially reacted with the first extender component in a molar ratio of above 2:1 to form a modified diisocyanate component having a functionality of about 2 prior to reaction with the other components to provide relatively low temperature processing properties to the composition. Preferably, different layers of these polyurethanes are included.

Abstract: An improved high-intensity roto-peen flap, constructed of coated fabric material, the coating including a plurality of layers at least one of which comprises a linear polyurethane elastomer, exhibits improved life over previous high-intensity roto peen flaps. A method of making such a flap, a wheel incorporating at least one of the flaps, and a method of high-intensity roto-peening using the wheel are also presented.

Abstract: A fabric substrate which is at least partially or selectively coated with a novel polycarbonate-polyether polyurethane for use as a driver's side or passenger side air bag. The polyurethane coating is applied in a manner which provides a desired permeability to the fabric, allows the fabric to be cut without fraying the fibers of the substrate, and imparts flexibility toughness and tear resistance to the final product.

Abstract: A baffle retard the transfer of heat from a mold structure to a chill plate during casting of molten metal. The baffle includes a circular support portion and a plurality of flexible segments which extend from the support portion. Each of the segments is engageable with an irregular side portion of the mold structure. During a casting operation, the chill plate and mold structure are lowered from a furnace chamber. As they are lowered, the baffle is maintained in engagement with an irregular side portion of the mold structure until the irregular side portion moves below the baffle. To maintain the baffle in engagement with the irregular side portion of the mold structure during lowering of the mold structure, the flexible segments of the baffle resiliently flex toward and away from the central axis of the baffle. The flexible segments of the baffle may advantageously be formed of a graphite foil.