Abstract: This invention relates, in general, to thermoplastic film and fiber structures and methods of making the same. More specifically, this invention relates to substantially water-free films and fibers comprising unmodified polyvinyl alcohol.

Abstract: This invention relates, in general, to thermoplastic film and fiber structures and methods of making the same. More specifically, this invention relates to substantially water-free films and fibers comprising unmodified polyvinyl alcohol.

Abstract: A curable adhesive composition for forming a bond between silicone coated optical fibers and fiber connector bodies, said composition comprising: an epoxy resin component; and a curative admixed therewith. The curative comprises an amino-substituted polysiloxane including more than one primary amino group and having a molecular weight from about 150 to about 1,000. The adhesive composition has an initial viscosity, before curing, below about 100 Pascal-seconds, and the bond has a fiber pull-out force above about 1 Kg. Also provided is fiber optic connector including a holder for one or more optical cables, each optical cable having an optical fiber surrounded by strengthening fibers, both of which are surrounded by at least one polymeric coating layer wherein the optical cable is bonded to the connector by means of the curable adhesive.

Abstract: Hydrophobic polyolefin fibers are provided with an internal hydrophobic polysiloxane of the formula in which X, Y, R1, and R2, which may be the same or different, or substituted or unsubstituted independently of each other, are aliphatic groups having not more than about sixteen carbon atoms, R1 and R2 also being selected from among aryl groups, and z being a positive number sufficiently high that the polysiloxane is hydrophobic (z is generally a least 10). The invention also provides a novel polymer melt for spinning these hydrophobic fibers. The fibers can be cut into staple lengths and carded and bonded to form hydrophobic woven and nonwoven products suitable for use in hygiene devices such as diapers. Such devices are improved by these fibers, which, as spun, present a greater hydrophobicity than melt-spun polyolefin fibers lacking the internal siloxane lubricant, the improved hydrophobicity is evidenced by an advancing contact angle for the as-spun fibers of at least about 95°.

Abstract: A fiber which includes a thermoplastic polymer and particles of a ferroelectric material dispersed therein. The thermoplastic polymer may be, for example, a polyolefin, such as polypropylene or polyethylene, and the ferroelectric material may be barium titanate. The ferroelectric material may be present at a level of from about 0.01 to about 50 percent by weight (from about 0.001 to about 13 percent by volume), and will have a longest dimension in a range of from about 10 nanometers to about 10 micrometers. The fiber may be exposed to an electric field. A plurality of the fibers may be employed to form a knitted or woven fabric or a nonwoven web. Also provided is a method of preparing fibers containing particles of a ferroelectric material. The method includes destructuring the ferroelectric material in the presence of a liquid and a surfactant to give destructured particles; the liquid is a solvent for the surfactant and the surfactant is adapted to stabilize the destructured particles against agglomeration.

Abstract: Recycled paper pulp having at least two different types of paper which consume widely different amounts of bleaching chemical, or mixed hardwood and soft-wood pulps, are treated in a manner that enhances distribution and redistribution of bleaching chemical to enhance uniformity of the bleaching treatment. The pulp is intensely mixed to provide a homogenous mixture of fibrous material and bleaching chemical, and then is continuously or intermittently subjected to mechanical action (such as in low intensity mixers, or by agitating pulp in a retention tank) of sufficient intensity and duration so as to enhance distribution and redistribution of a bleaching chemical. Also, recycled pulp will have cleanliness which varies significantly over time, and this is accommodated by sensing at least one of the brightness, color, or lignin content (e.g.

Abstract: The specification discloses polymeric articles such as fibers and fibrous webs which exhibit improved hydrophobicity and methods for making the articles. The articles comprise a polymer selected from the group consisting of polyolefins and polyesters and an additive of the structure R.sup.1 --A--Si(R.sup.2 R.sup.3)--O--(Si(R.sup.4 R.sup.5)--O)n--Si--(R.sup.6 R.sup.7)--A--R.sup.8, wherein R.sup.1 and R.sup.8 are selected from the group consisting of alkyl, aryl, alkylaryl groups and acyl and arylacyl derivatives of an aliphatic or aliphatic/aromatic mono-acid with a molecular weight of from about 250 to about 600 daltons, A is selected from the group consisting of --O--, --NH--C(O)--NH--(CH.sub.2).sub.3 --, and --C(O)--NH--(CH.sub.2).sub.3 --, R.sup.2, R.sup.3, R.sup.6 and R.sup.7 are selected from the group consisting of CH.sub.3, C.sub.2 H.sub.5, C.sub.3 H.sub.7, and C.sub.4 H.sub.9, R.sup.4 and R.sup.5 are selected from the group consisting of CH.sub.3, C.sub.2 H.sub.5, C.sub.3 H.sub.7, and (CH.sub.2).sub.

Abstract: Process for the production of polypropylene fibers from polypropylene polymers produced by the polymerization of polypropylene in the presence of a metallocene catalyst characterized by a bridged racemic bis(indenyl) ligand substituted at the proximal position. The polypropylene contains 0.5 to 2% 2,1 insertions and has an isotacticity of at least 95% meso diads and is heated to a molten state and extruded to form a fiber preform. The preform is subjected to spinning at a spinning speed of at least 500 meters per minutes and subsequent drawing at a speed of at least 1,500 meters per minute to provide a draw ratio of at least 3 to produce a continuous polypropylene fiber. The draw speed and/or the draw ratio can be varied to produce fibers of different mechanical properties. Different polypropylene polymers produced by different metallocene catalysts can be used. Such fibers can be characterized by having an elongation at break of at least 100% and a specific toughness of at least 0.5 grams per denier.

Abstract: A method of manufacture of solid-walled hollow polymeric fibres comprises the steps of dissolving polymeric material in a suitable solvent liquid to form a dope solution (44), extruding the dope solution through an aperture in a spinneret (41) to form a narrow jet of liquid injecting a coagulant (46) through an aperture (53) in the centre of the liquid dope jet as it leaves the spinneret, directing the jet through an air gap into a coagulant bath containing a further coagulant; and directing the fibre through a drawing bath to reduce the diameter, each coagulant solution being a mixture of a coagulant liquid capable of causing gelation and solidification of the liquid dope jet and between 20% and 80% of the solvent liquid.

Abstract: A modified polyester-polyurethane resin is formed by reacting at least one polyisocyanate at least one polyol polyester that is prepared from at least one diacid or ethylenically unsaturated anhydride and at least one polyhydric alcohol, at least one ethylenically unsaturated monomer, at least one promoter of the decomposition of the catalyst peroxide, at least one catalyst of the isocyanate-alcohol reaction, and at least one hydroxylated (alk)acrylate and is used for the impregnation of oriented reinforcements. The resin makes possible quick molding, at moderate temperature, of parts with high mechanical properties.

Abstract: A composite yarn formed of melt-fusible thermoplastic fibers combined with selected other fibers and/or materials includes a containment barrier that encapsulates one or more core materials which may present a threat of contamination to workers and/or the environment. The composite yarn includes a core covered by an adhesive layer of thermoplastic material which forms a containment barrier, combined with one or more subsequent overlying layers of fibers wrapped or otherwise applied thereto using conventional yarn construction methods. In a preferred embodiment the core material is coated with a liquid adhesive, and preferably a polyester-based polyurethane which contains silicon grit, just prior to being wrapped with one or more layers of fibers which form the containment barrier. The cured and finished composite yarn is designed for knitting and weaving fabrics, or for otherwise forming cordage and non-woven products.

Abstract: This invention describes hydrophobic and oleophobic fibers, films and molded articles comprising synthetic organic polymer wherein dispersed within the fiber, fabric or molded article and present at the surface of the fiber, fabric or molded article are fluorochemical compounds. Method of preparing such fibers, films and molded articles, as well as articles made therefrom also are disclosed.

Abstract: A composition for producing acid dye stain-resistant fibers includes a fiber-forming polymide, a polymer and a masterbatch concentrate which itself includes a reagent and a carrier. The reagent can be an alkal metal, alkaline earth metal or transition metal salt of 5-sulfoisophthalic acid. The carrier can be (A) a terpolymer of an alpha-monoolefin, ethylene-.alpha.,.beta. unsaturated carboxylic acid ester and an internal anhydride of an ethlenically unsaturated carboxylic acid. It can alternatively be (B) a semi-crystalline thermoplastic polyester, (C) a semi-crystalline thermoplastic polyamide, or mixtures of (B) and (C). The polymer in the composition can be (A) and mixtures of (A) and (B) and/or (C).

Abstract: A yarn comprising linear low density polyethylene fiber and nonmelting fiber or fiber having a melting point higher than the linear low density polyethylene fiber, and structures made therefrom.

Abstract: A PTFE fiber that is adapted to be sewn at high speeds. The fiber has a toughness greater than about 0.36 grams per denier (g/d). A range for the toughness is from about 0.36 to about 1.01 g/d, with a preferred range being from about 0.50 to about 0.80 g/d. The toughness of the inventive PTFE fiber is most preferably about 0.60 g/d. The inventive fiber has a peak engineering stress greater than about 1.6 g/d and a break strain greater than about 15.5 percent. A preferred range for the peak engineering stress is from about 3.0 g/d to about 5.0 g/d, and a preferred range for the break strain is from about 20 percent to about 50 percent. Most preferably, the peak engineering stress is about 4.4 g/d, and the break strain is about 24 percent. In another aspect, this invention provides a process for making a fiber that involves providing a PTFE fiber and heating the PTFE fiber to a temperature of from about 300.degree. C. to about 500.degree. C.

Abstract: A photocatalytic sheet which has a base made of polymeric organic compound, that is not decomposed by a photocatalytic function, and also hardly loses the photocatalytic function after washing and is capable of providing the photocatalytic function even in an environment without sufficient ultraviolet radiation from outside. Using a fiber, a filament, a yarn made of fibers or filaments, a ribbon, a knitted fabric, a woven fabric, a nonwoven fabric, or a film as the base, a base protective layer is formed on a part of the base, which is made of the polymeric organic compound, and a photocatalytic semiconductor layer is formed on the entire surface of the base including the base protective layer.

Abstract: A fully imidized cresylic acid soluble polymer comprising 4,4'- oxydiphthalic anhydride (ODPA), 3,4,3',4',-biphenyltetracarboxylic dianhydride (BPDA), 3,4'-oxydianiline (ODA), and 4,4'-oxydianiline (DAPE) that can be used as a coating material such as a wire coated enamel. The polyimide has relatively low viscosity and high percent solids by substituting some of the 3,4'oxydianiline with 4,4'oxydianiline. Substitution with the 4,4'oxydianiline can be accomplished up to 25% on the molar basis without losing the fully imidized, cresol solubility characteristics.

Abstract: A PTFE fiber that is adapted to be sewn at high speeds. The fiber has a toughness greater than about 0.36 grams per denier (g/d). A range for the toughness is from about 0.36 to about 1.01 g/d, with a preferred range being from about 0.50 to about 0.80 g/d. The toughness of the inventive PTFE fiber is most preferably about 0.60 g/d. The inventive fiber has a peak engineering stress greater than about 1.6 g/d and a break strain greater than about 15.5 percent. A preferred range for the peak engineering stress is from about 3.0 g/d to about 5.0 g/d, and a preferred range for the break strain is from about 20 percent to about 50 percent. Most preferably, the peak engineering stress is about 4.4 g/d, and the break strain is about 24 percent. In another aspect, this invention provides a process for making a fiber that involves providing a PTFE fiber and heating the PTFE fiber to a temperature of from about 300.degree. C. to about 500.degree. C.

Abstract: A high nitrile fiber formed from an acrylonitrile olefinically unsaturated multipolymer which fiber is produced by a waterless, solventless melt spinning process.

Abstract: Optical fiber primary coating systems are disclosed having excellent ribbon stripping and adhesion behavior. The coatings are radiation-curable. The excellent stripping and adhesion behavior can be inner piramry coating composition having a slip enhancing component and a high modulus outer primary coating composition. Combination of means can be employed. Stripping behavior can be measured by crack propagation and fiber friction measurements.

Abstract: The invention relates to polymers which form cholesteric phases, to a process for their preparation and to their use.Novel polymers and oligomers which form cholesteric phases essentially consist, as molecular building blocks, ofA. at least one bifunctional chiral molecular building block which contains at least one cyclic structural element other than a monosubstituted p-phenylene group,B. at least one bifunctional achiral or racemic molecular building block which contains at least one cyclic structural element containing at least four ring members, andC. at least one bifunctional molecular building block which can be either chiral or achiral, cyclic or acyclic, and is different from the molecular building blocks A and B actually employed,with the proviso that the molecular building block A is not derived exclusively from camphoric acid.

Abstract: The polyimides are derived from solutions of at least one low-boiling organic solvent, e.g. isopropanol containing a mixture of polyimide-forming monomers. The monomeric solutions have an extended shelf life at ambient (room) temperatures as high as 80.degree. C. and consist essentially of a mixture of monoalkyl ester-acids, alkyl diester-diacids and aromatic polyamines wherein the alkyl radicals of the ester-acids are derived from lower molecular weight aliphatic secondary alcohols having 3 to 5 carbon atoms per molecule such as isopropanol, secondary butanol, 2-methyl-3-butanol, 2 pentanol or 3-pentanol. The solutions of the polyimide-forming monomers have a substantially improved shelf-life and are particularly useful in the aerospace and aeronautical industry for the preparation of polyimide reinforced fiber composites such as the polyimide cured carbon composites used in jet engines, missiles, and for other high temperature applications.

Abstract: Yarns of melt-spun polymeric filaments are rapidly quenched, whereby the filaments are cooled by quenching gas that is accelerated along the threadline by being passed through a tube of reduced dimensions with the filaments before they emerge. In particular, a yarn is produced which has an elongation to break of about 100% or more. The yarn is comprised of filaments numbering from 25 to 150. The filaments are less than 4 denier per filament and makeup yarns having low denier spread.

Abstract: The present invention provides fiber strands having on at least a portion of surfaces thereof (a) a primary layer of a coating composition including a hydrophobic fluorine-containing polymer, the primary coated strands being useful for reinforcing thermoplastic composites, and (b) a secondary layer including a hydrophilic material applied over at least a portion of the primary layer, the secondarily coated strands being useful for inhibiting water wicking in a telecommunications cable assembly.

Abstract: A highly flavored dental article for cleaning the interproximal surfaces of the teeth such as dental floss comprising one filament having a water-insoluble coating. Flavorant and a flavor enhancer are provided on the outer surface of the coating and within the depth of the coating.

Abstract: A coated multi-filament reinforcing carbon yarn is encapsulated with a rubber composition. The rubber composition comprises resorcinol-formaldehyde reaction product, a vinylpyridine-styrene butadiene terpolymer, an acrylonitrile-butadiene copolymer and urea.

Abstract: A composite textured yarn contains a component yarn A and a component yarn B each false twisted and crimped. The component yarn B is shorter in yarn length or larger in shrinkage at least after heat treatment. Single fibers of component B have thick portions and thin portions successively alternating in the longitudinal direction.

Abstract: Fibers, continuous or discontinuous, and bars having optimized geometries for use in the reinforcement of cement, ceramic and polymeric based matrices are claimed. The geometries are designed to increase the ratio of surface area available for bond between the fiber and the matrix to the cross-sectional area of fiber. In the case of a continuous reinforcement comprised of a single fiber or a bar made out of a bundle of fibers, such as is the case in reinforced and prestressed concrete, increasing the surface area available for bond leads to a decrease in crack width, development length, and transfer length. The fibers or bars are also configured to be amenable for twisting or to have spiral like deformations along their longitudinal axis to further develop the mechanical component of bond between the fibers and the matrix. Additional methods of mechanical bond enhancement, such as crimping and/or addition of anchorages, such as hooked ends, paddles, buttons, etc. . . .

Abstract: Diverse dyeable polypropylene fibers are manufactured by making polypropylene resin composition chips by dispersing 100 parts by weight of polypropylene, 1-10 parts by weight of semi-crystalline functional high polymer, 0.05-5 parts by weight of amorphous functional polymer, and 0.1-3 parts by weight additives and melting and spinning the polypropylene resin composition chips.

Abstract: The invention relates to sheet-like absorbents for water and aqueous solutions, containing at a defined distributionA) at least one water-swellable synthetic and/or natural superabsorbent polymer, andB) at least one water-soluble synthetic and/or natural polymeras a matrix of sheet-like design wherein the superabsorbent component A) is integrated or fixed. The sheet-like absorbents have an increased absorptive capacity for water and aqueous liquids, particularly under load. They are manufactured by forming a sheet-like matrix from the water-soluble synthetic and/or natural polymers B) and providing same with said water-swellable synthetic and/or natural superabsorber A), e.g., by applying a solution of matrix B) on a surface, sprinkling same with component A), and drying the sheet-like structure thus obtained.

Abstract: Composite yarn comprising an intimate mixture of glass filaments and thermoplastic filaments, wherein said composite yarn is coated with an aqueous sizing composition containing at least one additive in the form of a fatty acid ester; and the aqueous sizing composition per se.

Abstract: The present invention relates to melt-spun polyurethane elastic fiber having a degree of luster of 70 or less, the degree of luster being defined as (I/Io).times.100 where the amount of light reflecting off the surface of the fiber is I and the amount of light reflecting off a standard white plate is Io. On the surface of preferable polyurethane elastic fiber, 10 or more mountain-like protrusions of 0.2 to 5.05 to 110 parts by weight of 5 to 110 parts by weight of .mu.m in height are present every 10 .mu.m fiber in the axial direction.Also, the present invention relates to a process for producing polyurethane elastic fiber, comprising melt-spinning butylene terephthalate-based crystalline polyester (A) and thermoplastic polyurethane (B) wherein before spinning, the compound (A) is melt-mixed with thermoplastic polyurethane (B-1) having isocyanate groups in an amount of 150 to 500 .mu.mol/g.Further, the present invention relates to covered fiber comprising the polyurethane elastic fiber as a core.

Abstract: A polybenzazole fiber obtained through heat treatment, which has a high tensile modulus of not less than 300 GPa and a tensile strength of not less than 5.0 GPa, said fiber being characterized by an X-ray analysis by a fine structure thereof of at least one of the following (1) and (2):(1) a crystal orientation parameter <sin.sup.2 .PHI.> of not more than 0.

Abstract: A composite yarn formed of melt-fusible thermoplastic fibers combined with selected other fibers and/or materials includes a containment barrier that encapsulates one or more core materials which may present a threat of contamination to workers and/or the environment. The composite yarn includes a core covered by an adhesive layer of thermoplastic material which forms a containment barrier, combined with one or more subsequent overlying layers of fibers wrapped or otherwise applied thereto using conventional yarn construction methods. In a preferred embodiment the core material is coated with a liquid adhesive, and preferably a polyester-based polyurethane which contains silicon grit, just prior to being wrapped with one or more layers of fibers which form the containment barrier. The cured and finished composite yarn is designed for knitting and weaving fabrics, or for otherwise forming cordage and non-woven products.

Abstract: Low tack dry-spun spandex containing barium sulfate of low isoelectric point is provided.

Abstract: An optical fiber assembly is described exhibiting antistatic behavior comprising at least one optical fibre and having an external organic polymer-based coating which contains a non-aqueous, or substantially non-aqueous, antistatic composition comprising (a) an antistatic agent(s), and (b) an organic liquid(s) having a dielectric constant of .gtoreq.15 and a boiling point of .gtoreq.100.degree. C.

Abstract: The present invention provides multifilament reinforcing articles which include fibers coated and impregnated with at least a partially cured, moisture reduced residue derived from an aqueous coating composition in which the major polymeric component is an elastomeric polymer. The coated and impregnated fibers are bound with a polymeric film-forming binder in the form of a tape, wire or other shape-retaining arrangement in which the fibers are substantially parallel. In an alternative embodiment, bundles of sized fibers are bound together in a shape-retaining arrangement by an aqueous coating composition including an aqueous emulsion of a thermoplastic polymer and water in an effective amount to bind the plurality of fiber bundles together, the aqueous coating composition being free of a crosslinking material.

Abstract: A water-insoluble, nonionic water-absorptive polyurethane fiber that combines the properties of high water absorptivity and excellent physical strength is produced by extrusion from a thermoplastic polyurethane resin composition at a temperature higher than its melting point. The thermoplastic polyurethane resin composition, which has a water absorption rate within the range of 200-3,000%, is obtained by reacting a polyisocyanate compound, a water-soluble polyalkylene ether polyol having a weight-average molecular weight of 2,000-13,000 and a chain extender at an equivalent ratio (R ratio) between the equivalent number of NCO groups and the equivalent number of OH groups in the range of 1.0 to 1.8. Also provided is a method of producing the water-absorptive polyurethane fiber.

Abstract: A composite yarn comprised of a chain stitch yarn knitted from a yarn A and at least an inlay yarn of a yarn B inserted into the chain stitch yarn along a longitudinal direction thereof. Since the chain stitch yarn and the inlay yarn are surely interlaced with each other in the composite yarn, there is little chance that the chain stitch yarn and the inlay yarn are separated in use. A preferable apparatus for manufacturing the composite yarn in accordance with the present invention may include individual winding mechanisms downstream of each knitting station in a warp knitting machine.

Abstract: A biocompatible material comprising a substrate made of a polyolefin material, and having a coating of biocompatible carbon material, wherein the coating is obtained by a process comprising the following steps:introducing a preformed substrate into an atmosphere of gaseous monomer vinylidene chloride (1,1 di-chloro ethylene);inducing a graft-polymerization reaction and grafting a uniform layer of polyvinylidene chloride on the substrate; andsubstantially eliminating and removing hydrogen chloride (dehydrochlorination reaction) from the polyvinylidene chloride in order to convert the polyvinylidene chloride layer into a coating of biocompatible carbon material.

Abstract: A method for coating the surface of a substrate composed of a hydrophobic polymer with a hydrophobic vinyl polymer. The method includes preparing a solution of the hydrophobic vinyl polymer in a polar nonaqueous solvent, such as 1-methyl-1-pyrrolidinone, in which the hydrophobic vinyl polymer is surface-active. The substrate then is treated with the solution under conditions sufficient to deposit the hydrophobic vinyl polymer on the substrate. The hydrophobic vinyl polymer may have readily hydrolyzable pendant groups which, upon hydrolysis thereof in an aqueous medium, will result in the formation of a hydrophilic vinyl polymer coating on the substrate. For example, the hydrophobic vinyl polymer may be poly(vinyl trifluoroacetate). Also provided are coated substrates, in which the substrate is a shaped article composed of a hydrophobic polymer. The shaped article may be, for example, a film, fiber, or nonwoven web.

Abstract: A polybenzazole fiber characterized by having an elastic modulus of not less than 1350 g/d and requiring not longer than 10 minutes to reduce its water content from 2.0% to 1.5%, when determined using a thermogravimetric analyzer at 110.degree. C. after moisture absorption of not less than 2.0% of a fiber, and a method for manufacturing such a polybenzazole fiber, comprising extruding a spinning dope comprising polybenzazole and a polyphosphoric acid from a spinneret to give a dope filament, and cooling the dope filament to not more than 50.degree. C., followed by coagulation and washing. According to the method of the present invention, a polybenzazole fiber showing less decrease in strength by rapid heating can be provided.

Abstract: Fibers, continuous or discontinuous, and bars having optimized geometries for use in the reinforcement of cement, ceramic and polymeric based matrices are claimed. The geometries are designed to increase the ratio of surface area available for bond between the fiber and the matrix to the cross-sectional area of fiber. In the case of a continuous reinforcement comprised of a single fiber or a bar made out of a bundle of fibers, such as is the case in reinforced and prestressed concrete, increasing the surface area available for bond leads to a decrease in crack width, development length, and transfer length. The fibers or bars are also configured to be amenable for twisting or to have spiral like deformations along their longitudinal axis to further develop the mechanical component of bond between the fibers and the matrix. Additional methods of mechanical bond enhancement, such as crimping and/or addition of anchorages, such as hooked ends, paddles, buttons, etc. . . .

Abstract: A PTFE fiber that is adapted to be sewn at high speeds. The fiber has a toughness greater than about 0.36 grams per denier (g/d). A range for the toughness is from about 0.36 to about 1.01 g/d, with a preferred range being from about 0.50 to about 0.80 g/d. The toughness of the inventive PTFE fiber is most preferably about 0.60 g/d. The inventive fiber has a peak engineering stress greater than about 1.6 g/d and a break strain greater than about 15.5 percent. A preferred range for the peak engineering stress is from about 3.0 g/d to about 5.0 g/d, and a preferred range for the break strain is from about 20 percent to about 50 percent. Most preferably, the peak engineering stress is about 4.4 g/d, and the break strain is about 24 percent. In another aspect, this invention provides a process for making a fiber that involves providing a PTFE fiber and heating the PTFE fiber to a temperature of from about 300.degree. C. to about 500.degree. C.

Abstract: A composite material formed by an organic substrate reinforced by glass strands. It consists of the combination of an organic substrate and glass strands coated with a sizing composition constituted by a solution with a solvent content of less than 5% by weight, the said solution comprising a mixture of components which can be polymerized and/or cross-linked by heat treatment, amongst the said components, at least 60% being components with molecular weights (Mw) of less than 750, and from 0 to 25% by weight being coupling agents, lubricating agents, stabilizing agents, polymerization initiators and/or catalysts, the said agents and initiators optionally being capable of being polymerized and/or cross-linked, the said sizing composition being non-polymerized, and the assembly subsequently being subjected to heat treatment and/or to the action of actinic radiation.

Abstract: A mop head made from a plurality of fibers of polyvinyl alcohol that are only water soluble at temperatures above 37.degree. C., where the fibers are formed into a mop head. A disposable cleaning rag made from at least one layer of a plurality of fibers of polyvinyl alcohol that are only water soluble at temperatures above 37.degree. C., wherein the fibers are formed into a disposable cleaning rag.

Abstract: The invention relates to a composition comprising a polymer, a short and a long fiber composite that can be used in the form of a linear extrudate or thermoplastic pellet to manufacture structural members. The linear extrudate or pellet can have a cross-section of any arbitrary shape, or can be a regular geometric. The polymer and short/long fiber composite containing structural members can be manufactured from the composite or pellet in an extrusion process or an injection molding process. The pellet can have a cross-section shape having a volume of at least about 12 mm.sup.3. Preferably the pellet is a right cylindrical pellet having a minimum radius of about 1.5 mm and a minimum length of 1 mm weighing at least 14 mg. The initial mixing step before extrusion of the composite material insures substantial mixing and melt contact between molten polymer and wood fiber. The extruded pellet comprises a consistent proportion of polymer, short and long fiber and water.

Abstract: A crimped thermoplastic fiber for use in reinforcing concrete has a length in the range of 1/4 inch to 4 inches; an outer diameter in the range of 4 mils to 30 mils; a crimp frequency of 10-30 crimps per inch and an amplitude in the range of 1/2 mil-10 mils. The invention also includes a cylindrical bundle of the aforementioned fibers retained within an outer paper wrapper that dissolves and/or disintegrates within a concrete mixer in which the wrapped bundles are dispersed.

Abstract: Modified polyolefin fibers capable of easily producing a non-woven fabric having a high strength and a superior feeling, and provided with a broad range of processing temperature and further a low temperature adhesiveness and suitable to heating roll processing, and a non-woven fabric using the same are provided,which fibers are obtained by adhering 0.1 to 1.0% by weight of an oiling agent composed mainly of a dibasic acid ester and/or a fatty acid ester, to polyolefin fibers having an index of birefringence of 0.054 or less, and which non-woven fabric has a strength of 0.85 or higher (Kg/5 cm) at 134.degree. C. and a processing temperature width of 132.degree. to 138.degree. C.

Abstract: Provided is a flame-retardant fabric comprising (A) from 16 to 45 parts by weight of a halogen-containing fiber containing from 11 to 67% by weight of a halogen chemically bound to a polymer and from 4 to 30% by weight of an Sb compound not chemically bound to a polymer, (B) from 10 to 36 parts by weight of a polyvinyl alcohol fiber, and (C) from 60 to 40 parts by weight of a polyester fiber, which are compounded to total 100 parts by weight. The flame-retardant fabric of the present invention has an excellent heat resistance, an excellent processability and a high flame retardance. This fabric can improve the feeling after high-temperature processing such as transfer printing and further widen the range of application of a polyester fiber product.