Abstract: Superconductor containing filaments having embedments of superconducting material surrounded by a rayon matrix are formed by preparing a liquid suspension which contains at least 10 weight percent superconducting material; forming a multicomponent filament having a core of the suspension and a viscose sheath which contains cellulose xanthate; and thereafter, regenerating cellulose from the cellulose xanthate to form a rayon matrix.

Abstract: A disc brake caliper has two limbs which, in use, straddle an outer periphery of a brake disc to support friction pads on each side of the disc. Each caliper limb supports at least two friction pads arranged side by side in a circumferentially sequential array with the trailing edges of each pad abutting the leading edge of any circumferentially adjacent pad in the array to transmit torque loads from one pad to the adjacent pad.

Abstract: A method of increasing the absorbency of cellulosic fibers by treating the cellulosic fibers with an aqueous acid solution having a pH value of no more than 4. The treatment is carried out for a time sufficient to obtain the desired absorbency. Optionally, the aqueous acidic solution treatment can be preceded or succeeded by a hot water treatment to further increase the absorbency of the cellulosic fibers. The cellulosic fibers find particular application in nonwoven articles that require high absorbency, i.e., diapers, tampons, medical sponges, etc.