Abstract: An insulating paperboard contains at least one layer of cellulose fibers. The one layer is at least partially composed of bulky fibers. The paperboard is sufficiently insulated to provide a hot water ?T across the paperboard of at least 0.7° C.±2.3° C. per 0.1 mm of caliper. The paperboard may be embossed to decrease surface transmission of heat. A hot cup may be produced from the insulating paperboard.

Abstract: A fiber product comprises dry discontinuous fibers having a starch binder on at least a portion of the fiber surfaces, at least about seventy percent of the starch binder coated fibers being unbonded to one another, solid particles are adhered to the fibers by the binder without the binder entirely coating the particles. The fibers may be air laid into a web or formed into an absorbent structure. Superabsorbent particles are a specific example of the particles which may be adhered to the fibers.

Abstract: A binding agent comprising fiber strands of microbially produced cellulose is disclosed. The cellulose is synthesized by certain strains of microorganisms of the genus Acetobacter grown under agitated culture conditions to produce fine, interconnected fiber strands forming a three-dimensional reticulated structure. The binding agent is effective for binding fibers and fragments of material, such as natural and treated wood fragments and particles as well as synthetic materials, and it imparts wet and dry tensile strength to the bound material.