Abstract: A process to clean carbon fiber fabric of a pre-applied sizing, while simultaneously activating or preparing the fabric to receive a polymer resin is described. The cleaning process and chemistry combines an enzymatic cleaning solution with an oxidizing agent. The enzymatic solution strips the fibers of lubricants, surfactants, and other chemicals of the sizing which might otherwise interfere with interfacial properties and bonding of the fabric to the matrix resin. The inclusion of an oxidizing agent concurrently adds hydroxyl groups to the surface of the fabric allowing for the grafting of organic copolymers to the surface of the fabric, the copolymer being chosen based upon the desired polymer resin. This process provides a customized finished carbon fiber fabric to bond to a specific polymer resin, without interference resulting from an inadequate fiber sizing chemistry. In this way, a customizable finished fabric may be manufactured.

Abstract: A method and product for creating a customizable fabric for specific end-use composites is provided. This method includes creating a three-dimensional matrix on woven fabrics, such as glass or carbon fiber fabrics via the addition of nanoparticles and a coupling agent; and, attaching a functional group compatible to specific resins dependent upon end use. The resulting product is a resin-free fabric with specific functional groups attached, ready to receive a particular polymer resin. Alternatively, the process may continue through to the addition of a polymer resin, resulting in a completed composite product.

Abstract: A process to clean carbon fiber fabric of a pre-applied sizing, while simultaneously activating or preparing the fabric to receive a polymer resin is described. The cleaning process and chemistry combines an enzymatic cleaning solution with an oxidizing agent. The enzymatic solution strips the fibers of lubricants, surfactants, and other chemicals of the sizing which might otherwise interfere with interfacial properties and bonding of the fabric to the matrix resin. The inclusion of an oxidizing agent concurrently adds hydroxyl groups to the surface of the fabric allowing for the grafting of organic copolymers to the surface of the fabric, the copolymer being chosen based upon the desired polymer resin. This process provides a customized finished carbon fiber fabric to bond to a specific polymer resin, without interference resulting from an inadequate fiber sizing chemistry. In this way, a customizable finished fabric may be manufactured.

Abstract: A method and product for creating a customizable fabric for specific end-use composites is provided. This method includes creating a three-dimensional matrix on woven fabrics, such as glass or carbon fiber fabrics via the addition of nanoparticles and a coupling agent; and, attaching a functional group compatible to specific resins dependent upon end use. The resulting product is a resin-free fabric with specific functional groups attached, ready to receive a particular polymer resin. Alternatively, the process may continue through to the addition of a polymer resin, resulting in a completed composite product.

Abstract: A woven article having strands of polyetherimide (PEI) fiber or organic fibers (cyclic polyolefin) and strands of inextensible, heat resistant fiber is disclosed. Preferably warp and weft fibers of PEI are provided wherein said fibers bond together when heated. By using a multiplicity of PEI fibers, heating and compressing the woven article will produce a sheet-like surface on at least one side thereof.

Abstract: A composition and process in which a silane coupling agent has nano-mineral particles grafted to the silane copolymer molecules in the coupling agent and such coupling agent is applied to a scoured fabric prior to the fabric being coated with a polymeric coating.

Abstract: A woven article having strands of polyetherimide (PEI) fiber or organic fibers (cyclic polyolefin) and strands of inextensible, heat resistant fiber is disclosed. Preferably warp and weft fibers of PEI are provided wherein said fibers bond together when heated. By using a multiplicity of PEI fibers, heating and compressing the woven article will produce a sheet-like surface on at least one side thereof.

Abstract: A fiberglass covered recreational board for surfing and other water sports having increased strength and rigidity provided by a longitudinal, central band or bands of higher strength glass fibers such as S Glass and S-2 Glass, or by aramid fibers, or by quartz fibers that are woven into the fiberglass cover as warp threads.

Abstract: Flexible and semi-rigid refuse containers are provided for long term storage of refuse in environments where permafrost conditions prevail. The preferred containers are formed from woven fiberglass coated with a UV resistant polymer such as PVC.

Abstract: A composition and method for selectively increasing the resin flow and gel time of an epoxy resin that fills the capillary region between filaments in fiberglass yarns making up a woven fabric. The composition and method are used in the lamination of fiberglass reinforced composites such as copper clad laminates for circuit boards and reduces the occurrence of voids in the capillary region.

Abstract: A composition and method for selectively increasing the resin flow and gel time of an epoxy resin that fills the capillary region between filaments in fiberglass yarns making up a woven fabric. The composition and method are used in the lamination of fiberglass reinforced composites such as copper clad laminates for circuit boards and reduces the occurrence of voids in the capillary region.

Abstract: A method and product for identifying the origin of products having fiberglass components or constituents wherein the glass fibers are coated with a fluorescent agent that glows when subsequently subjected to UV or appropriate wavelength light. Thus by selecting a unique color or pattern a manufacturer can readily identify his products.

Abstract: Flexible and semi-rigid refuse containers are provided for long term storage of refuse in environments where permafrost conditions prevail. The preferred containers are formed from woven fiberglass coated with a UV resistant polymer such as PVC.

Abstract: A composition and method for selectively increasing the resin flow and gel time of an epoxy resin that fills the capillary region between filaments in fiberglass yarns making up a woven fabric. The composition and method are used in the lamination of fiberglass reinforced composites such as copper clad laminates for circuit boards and reduces the occurrence of voids in the capillary region.

Abstract: A finishing composition and method for applying the composition to a fabric woven from glass fibers or from a blend of glass fibers and other fibers such as polyamide or polyester. Such finishes significantly enhance the flex life of woven glass fabrics by improving the acid and alkali corrosion resistance of the fibers. The finish, which comprises fluoropolymer and epoxy resin, can be loaded into the fabric in multiple baths. Filtration products can be fabricated from the finished fabrics and they are especially useful for making filter bags used in the bag houses for central power generating stations and similar industries.

Abstract: A finishing composition and method for applying the composition to a fabric woven from glass fibers or from a blend of glass fibers and other fibers such as polyamide or polyester. Such finishes significantly enhance the flex life of woven glass fabrics by improving the acid and alkali corrosion resistance of the fibers. The finish, which employs fluoropolymer and epoxy resin, can be loaded into the fabric in multiple baths. Filtration products can be fabricated from the finished fabrics and they are especially useful for making filter bags used in the bag houses for central power generating stations and similar industries.