Synthetic Resin Or Polymer Patents (Class 428/394)
  • Patent number: 6759124
    Abstract: Unique thermoplastic monofilament fibers and yarns that exhibit heretofore unattained physical properties are provided. Such fibers are basically manufactured through the extrusion of thermoplastic resins that include a certain class of nucleating agent therein, and are able to be drawn at high ratios with such nucleating agents present that the tenacity and modulus strength are much higher than any other previously produced thermoplastic fibers, particularly those that also simultaneously exhibit extremely low shrinkage rates. Thus, such fibers require the presence of certain compounds that quickly and effectively provide rigidity to the target thermoplastic (for example, polypropylene), particularly after heat-setting. Generally, these compounds include any structure that nucleates polymer crystals within the target thermoplastic after exposure to sufficient heat to melt the initial pelletized polymer and allowing such an oriented polymer to cool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2004
    Assignee: Milliken & Company
    Inventors: Joseph R. Royer, Brian G. Morin, Martin E. Cowan
  • Patent number: 6756114
    Abstract: A moldable pellet used for making high impact, non-abrasive recyclable structural composites consisting of a thermoplastic polymer or polymers, with or without fillers and additives, and a synthetic cellulosic fiber in yarn or tow form such as Rayon or Lyocell. The concentration of cellulose fiber within the pellet may vary from approximately 2-80 percent by weight or higher. This moldable pellet is suitable for molding in current molding applications such as, but not limited to, injection molding, extrusion compression molding, and compression molding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Assignee: Owens Corning Fiberglas Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Frank R. Cichocki, James L. Thomason, Terry L. Cheney
  • Patent number: 6749921
    Abstract: The present invention relates to wood that is reinforced with a fiber-reinforced thermoplastic composite that contains a plurality of substantially parallel continuous fibers impregnated with thermoplastic polymer having the following structural units: where Z is S or O, and Z′ is S, O, N-alkyl or NH The invention is useful in a variety of applications including glue-laminated structures, laminated veneer lumber, reinforced I-beams, parallel strand lumber, reinforced particle board, and ladders. The use of a thermoplastic polyurethane, particularly the high Tg thermoplastic polyurethane as the impregnating resin provides a means of recycling and reusing the reinforced lumber, as well as shaping the composite in ways that would be impossible using conventional fibe-reinforced thermoset composites.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Assignee: Dow Global Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher M. Edwards, Faye J. Miller, Edward L. d'Hooghe
  • Patent number: 6743507
    Abstract: The present invention provides composites prepared from melt blending compositions that generally include cellulosic pulp fibers having an alpha-cellulose purity of greater than 80% by weight, at least one water soluble binder, at least one lubricant, at least one compatibilizer, and at least one matrix polymer. The present invention further provides advantageous temperature profiles and feeding arrangements to be used in conjunction with the melt blending of such composites. The composites of the present invention exhibit reduced discoloration and improved fiber dispersion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Assignee: Rayonier Products and Financial Services Company
    Inventors: Fred Barlow, Yash Khanna, Daren B. Pietsch, John Underwood
  • Patent number: 6743505
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a process of forming bioabsorbable, multifilament yarn from Lactide-rich copolymers, including the steps of extruding and spinning a Lactide-rich copolymer to form a spun multifilament yarn, pre-tensioning the spun multifilament yarn to form a pre-tensioned yarn, heating the pre-tensioned yarn to form a pre-tensioned, preheated yarn, annealing and drawing the pre-tensioned, preheated yarn for a first time, annealing and drawing the yarn for a second time, cooling the twice-drawn yarn to a lower temperature, and taking-up the cooled multifilament yarn, to yarns prepared by the process and to medical devices prepared from such yarns.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Assignee: Ethicon, Inc.
    Inventors: Attila Antal, Gaoyuan Chen, Dominick Egidio, Anthony Tiano, Edward Walker
  • Patent number: 6740722
    Abstract: An acrylic fiber having cotton-like properties with modified, internal void structure and optical characteristics, the acrylic fiber comprising a BYK Gardner Luster (BYL) reflectance measurement of less than about 44.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2004
    Assignee: Solutia Inc.
    Inventors: Gary J. Capone, Danny W. Carter, C. Wayne Emerson
  • Patent number: 6739344
    Abstract: A cellulose acetate structure excellent in its biodegradability. At least a surface region of the structure includes a biodegradable cellulose acetate composition containing a biodegradation promoting agent contained in cellulose acetate. The agent includes at least one compound selected from the group consisting of a salt of an oxygen acid of phosphorus, an ester of an oxygen acid of phosphorus or a salt thereof, carbonic acid and a salt thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2004
    Assignee: Japan Tobacco Inc.
    Inventor: Yoichiro Yamashita
  • Patent number: 6740406
    Abstract: Activated carbon particles or fabrics are coated with a deformable or water-insoluble coating material including a binding agent and a masking agent that can be colored. The coating material can provide sufficient diffusivity to permit excellent efficiency in adsorption of materials in spite of the presence of a coating layer on the activated carbon. The use of a deformable binding agent yields coated particles that make relatively less noise when the particles flow or are moved in use, and that have improved tactile properties in use. High performance colored activated carbon materials can be produced and placed in absorbent articles, overcoming common objections about the black color of activated carbon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2004
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Sheng-Hsin Hu, Ronald Lee Edens, Jeffrey Dean Lindsay, Thomas Gerard Shannon
  • Publication number: 20040096621
    Abstract: Improvements in creating resilient high denier polypropylene yarns are provided. Generally, high denier polypropylene yarns exhibit poor resiliency (such as crush resistance, for example, when utilized as carpet face yarns) that effectively prevents widespread use in articles that require high degrees of resiliency. As a result, higher cost, but more resilient, yarns, such as polyesters or polyamides, have found greater acceptance in such end-use articles. Furthermore, previous attempts at texturing high denier polypropylene fibers have failed to attain suitable resilience levels therein is insufficient to permit proper return to initial shape and/or length after impact.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2002
    Publication date: May 20, 2004
    Inventors: Weihua Sonya Dai, Brian G. Morin
  • Patent number: 6733881
    Abstract: There is disclosed an acrylic fiber (a) consisting of an acrylonitrile polymer comprising an acrylonitrile unit in at least 80 wt % and less than 95 wt %, (b) having a monofilament dry strength of 2.5 to 4.0 cN/dtex, (c) having a monofilament dry elongation of 35 to 50%, and (d) forming a crack with a length of 20 &mgr;m or more in its tension rupture lateral surface along the filament axis direction when rupturing the monofilament in a tension test. The fiber has even orientation in its surface and inside; is significantly improved in dry strength, dry elongation and dyeability; and exhibits wool-like hand feeling. It is, therefore, quite suitable as a synthetic fiber for various applications such as a garment material, e.g., a sweater and a home furnishing material such as a pile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2004
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Rayon Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yukio Kasabo, Katsuhiko Ikeda, Yasuyuki Fujii, Yoshihiko Mishina, Ryo Ochi
  • Publication number: 20040081829
    Abstract: The present invention pertains to absorbent polymer composition comprising A) one or more sulfonated substantially random interpolymers comprising repeating units derived from; a) ethylene and/or one or more alpha olefins; b) one or more sulfonated vinyl or vinylidene aromatic monomers; c) one or more vinyl or vinylidene aromatic monomers, or a combination of one or more vinyl or vinylidene aromatic monomers and one or more sterically hindered aliphatic or cycloaliphatic vinyl or vinylidene monomers; and optionally, B) one or more polymers other than said sulfonated substantially random interpolymer. Uses of the compositions include the preparation of absorbent foams, fibers films and membranes for the preparation of absorbent articles for personal hygiene. These include diapers, sanitary napkins adult incontinence pads, and highly absorbent wipes, and dust pickups.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2003
    Publication date: April 29, 2004
    Inventors: John Klier, Thomas E Fisk, Kenneth B Stewart
  • Patent number: 6725596
    Abstract: An enhanced fishing line has a unique combination of breaking strength and elongation properties to provide a high level of flexibility, a high ultimate knot breaking strength, and a high level of breaking toughness that is defined as the actual work per unit volume of material required to break the material. The line is a monofilament construction made of a synthetic polymeric material such as a polyamide, polyester, polyethylene, or fluropolymer and manufactured by an extrusion process followed by a drawing process where the extruded diameter is between 1.1 and 1.4 times the diameter of the finished line after drawing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Assignee: Ferrari Importing Co.
    Inventor: Ronald H. Carr
  • Patent number: 6723430
    Abstract: Provided is a water-decomposable absorbent article including a water-decomposable back layer, a water-decomposable and liquid-pervious surface layer, and a water-decomposable absorbent layer sandwiched between the back layer and the surface layer. The absorbent layer is formed of at least one composite sheet of a water-soluble or water-swellable polymer layer and a water-decomposable fibrous layer, of which the uppermost layer adjacent to the surface layer is the water-decomposable fibrous layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Assignee: Uni-Charm Corporation
    Inventors: Nobuhiro Kurata, Mitsuhiro Wada, Sachiyo Suzuki
  • Patent number: 6723799
    Abstract: An acid-dyeable polymer composition comprising (a) polymer and (b) polymeric additive comprising repeating units having the formula: or salts thereof, wherein A, B and Q, which may be the same or different, are selected from aliphatic or aromatic substituents provided that at least four carbon atoms separate any two nitrogen groups, R is an aliphatic or aromatic group, a is 1 to 5, and n is 3 to about 1,000. In addition, an acid-dyed composition prepared from the composition, a process of acid dyeing the composition and a process for preparing the composition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Assignee: E I. du Pont de Nemours and Company
    Inventors: Yanhui Sun, David P. Higley
  • Publication number: 20040071966
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a pulverulent polymer post-crosslinked on the surface and absorbing water or aqueous liquids, synthesised from polymerised, optionally pre-crosslinked monomers containing partially neutralised carboxyl groups. The present invention also relates to a process for the post-treatment of the aforementioned polymers and the use of a solution of at least one salt of an at least trivalent cation for restoring the gel permeability of the aforementioned polymers that have been damaged by mechanical action.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2002
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventors: Waldemar Inger, Rudiger Hose, Heinz-Peter Bohlmann
  • Patent number: 6709742
    Abstract: Elastic fibers are described that comprise (i) a polyolefin polymer, e.g., a homogeneously branched, preferably substantially linear, ethylene polymer, and (ii) a photoinitiator, e.g., an aromatic ketone, in an amount sufficient to effect at least a partial cross-linking of the polymer when the fiber is exposed to sufficient UV-radiation to activate the photoinitiator. Articles, e.g., fabrics, comprising fibers of this invention, either alone or in combination with one or more other fibers, e.g., cellulose, nylon, etc., exhibit good heat resistance and elasticity at elevated temperatures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: Dow Global Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: Mladen Ladika, John Klier, Ashish Sen, Erin D. O'Driscoll, Nancy J. Schrock, Antonio Batistini
  • Patent number: 6709736
    Abstract: Protection products and armored products made of a fiber-reinforced composite material with a ceramic matrix, include a protection element for partial or complete absorption of at least one impact-like load focussed at a point. The protection element has a body having at least one dimension at least equal to 3 cm, in a direction perpendicular to a load to be absorbed. The body includes a fiber-reinforced composite material having a ceramic matrix with at least 10% by weight of silicon carbide and having reinforcing fibers. At least 5% by weight of the reinforcing fibers are carbon fibers and/or graphite fibers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: SGL Carbon AG
    Inventors: Udo Gruber, Michael Heine, Andreas Kienzle, Reinhard Nixdorf
  • Patent number: 6703123
    Abstract: A white conductive fiber is manufactured at an inexpensive cost having superior conductivity and high degree of whiteness, in which a metal coating plated on the fiber has superior adhesiveness. A method for manufacturing the white conductive fiber comprises the steps of mounting a wound fiber body formed by winding a continuous fiber to the fixing shaft, a step of flowing a plating solution from the fixing shaft to a plating bath via the wound fiber body so as to infiltrate the plating solution into the wound fiber body, and a step of performing electroless plating of silver, platinum, or the like on the fiber material while the plating solution flows.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Assignees: Mitsubishi Materials Corporation, Japan Electric Metals Corporation, Ltd. Akita Plant
    Inventors: Daisuke Shibuta, Hiroyuki Imai, Masahiro Yokomizo, Makoto Tsunashima, Yusuke Maeda, Nobuo Furuya
  • Patent number: 6699589
    Abstract: In carbon reinforcements, in particular when used in carbon-fiber reinforced materials, sulfur-complex forming substances are chemically adsorbed, at least in part, at potential oxidation locations of an hexagonal carbon lattice to provide internal protection against oxidation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Inventors: Mathias Woydt, Michael Dogigli
  • Publication number: 20040038022
    Abstract: This invention relates to a method of making a film-fabric composite (includinng a film-fabric laminate) wherein the fabric is characterized as having improved tensile elongation (without rupture). In particular, the invention pertains to a method of making a film-fabric laminate having structual elastic-like behavior wherein the fabric is a nonwoven thermally bonded fabric characterized as having improved high strain rate tensile elongation and comprises a plurality of fibers comprised of at least one polypropylene polymer and at least one ethylene polymer, wherein the method comprises stretching the laminate at a high strain rate. The improved farbic is characterized by higher high strain rate tensile properties and a broader bond window which is also shifted to substantially lower temperatures with regard to maximum tensile properties.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2002
    Publication date: February 26, 2004
    Inventors: Rexford A. Maugans, Kalyan Sehanobish, Michael E. Rowland, Ray A. Herring, John Kaarto, Kenneth E. Springs, Thoi H. Ho
  • Publication number: 20040038008
    Abstract: A pliable pad includes a layer formed of an absorbent material and a formable material arranged generally parallel to each other. The selected formable material, such as aluminum foil, is capable of assuming a desired shape and of retaining the desired shape which has been assumed. As a result, the formable material can be shaped so that the pliable pad defines a basin for collecting and absorbing liquids. The pliable pad can also include one or more layers for defining a liquid barrier. The pliable pad can be used to collect excess liquid produced during a medical procedure, such as the irrigation of a wound, or can be used in other, non-medical applications in which liquid is to be collected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2003
    Publication date: February 26, 2004
    Inventors: Daniel S Levine, David E Lavine, Marshall S Lavine
  • Patent number: 6696156
    Abstract: There is disclosed an acrylic fiber (a) consisting of an acrylonitrile polymer comprising an acrylonitrile unit in at least 80 wt % and less than 95 wt %, (b) having a monofilament dry strength of 2.5 to 4.0 cN/dtex, (c) having a monofilament dry elongation of 35 to 50%, and (d) forming a crack with a length of 20 &mgr;m or more in its tension rupture lateral surface along the filament axis direction when rupturing the monofilament in a tension test. The fiber has even orientation in its surface and inside; is significantly improved in dry strength, dry elongation and dyeability; and exhibits wool-like hand feeling. It is, therefore, quite suitable as a synthetic fiber for various applications such as a garment material, e.g., a sweater and a home furnishing material such as a pile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Rayon Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yukio Kasabo, Katsuhiko Ikeda, Yasuyuki Fujii, Yoshihiko Mishina, Ryo Ochi
  • Patent number: 6692825
    Abstract: A nonwoven web and method of preparing a novel nonwoven web of synthetic fiber are disclosed. An aqueous solution amide crosslinked synthetic precursor polymer is extruded under defined conditions through a plurality of die orifices to form a plurality of threadlines. The threadlines are attenuated with a defined primary gaseous source to form fiber under conditions of controlled macro scale turbulence and under conditions sufficient to permit the viscosity of each threadline, as it leaves a die orifice and for a distance of no more than about 8 cm, to increase incrementally with increasing distance from the die, while substantially maintaining uniformity of viscosity in the radial direction, at a rate sufficient to provide fiber having the desired attenuation and mean fiber diameter without significant fiber breakage. The attenuated threadlines are dried with a defined secondary gaseous source. The resulting fibers are deposited randomly on a moving foraminous surface to form a substantially uniform web.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Jian Qin, Yong Li, Wendy Lynn Van Dyke, Anthony John Wisneski, Palani Raj Ramaswami Wallajapet, Hannong Rhim
  • Patent number: 6692828
    Abstract: Disclosed is a spandex fiber prepared to be excellent in resistance to both chlorine and heat without affecting the properties of the polyurethane polymer, and manufacturing method thereof. The spandex fiber contains hydrotalcite coated with 0.1 to 10 wt. % of a melamine-based compound. The melamine-based compound includes melamine compounds, phosphor-associated melamine compounds, melamine cyanurate compounds, melamine compounds substituted with an organic compound having a carboxyl group, phosphor-associated melamine compounds substituted with an organic compound having a carboxyl group, or melamine cyanurate compounds substituted with an organic compound having a carboxyl group, which are used alone or in combination. The spandex fiber has a high resistance to both chlorine and heat and is therefore useful for underwear, socks, and particularly, sports apparels such as swimsuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignees: Hyosung Corporation, Doobon Inc.
    Inventors: Byung Su Song, Tae Woo Lee, Ji Won Kim, Seung Won Seo, Dae Hwi Lee
  • Patent number: 6689463
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a composition for coating optical fibers that includes a UV curable coating composition. The composition includes at least one component having at least one heterocyclic moiety capable of undergoing ring opening polymerization. The composition may also include at least one acrylate functional end group. The acrylate functional group may be on the same component as the heterocyclic moiety or on a second component. The cured composition has a Young's Modulus of at least about 100 MPa.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Assignee: Corning Incorporated
    Inventors: Kevin Y Chou, Michelle D Fabian, Jun Hou, Gregory F Jacobs, David N Schissel, Huan-Hung Sheng
  • Patent number: 6680115
    Abstract: The present invention provides a mat having at least one primary area and at least one secondary area and adapted to reinforce a polymeric matrix material, the mat comprising (a) a first layer comprising a plurality of generally parallel, essentially continuous glass fiber strands oriented generally parallel to a longitudinal axis of the mat, at least a portion of outer surfaces of the first layer glass fiber strands having applied thereon at least a partial layer comprising at least a partially dried residue of first coating composition which is compatible with a polymeric matrix material, wherein at least a first portion of the first layer glass fiber strands are positioned within the at least one primary area at a primary strand density and at least a second portion of the first layer glass fiber strands are positioned within the at least one secondary area at a secondary strand density which is different from the primary strand density; and (b) a second layer comprising a plurality of randomly oriented gl
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: PPG Industries Ohio, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger E. Mulder, Charles W. Peterson, Harri Dittmar
  • Patent number: 6677039
    Abstract: Crystalline olefin polymers in the form of granules or nonextruded particles having regular geometric form, containing one or more of the following stabilizers: a) from 0.01 to 0.5% by weight of one or more organic phosphites or phosphonites or mixtures thereof; or b) from 0.005 to 0.5% by weight of one or more HALS (Hindered Amine Light Stabilizer); or c) mixtures of (a) and (b); and optionally one or more phenolic antioxidants at a concentration not higher than 0.02% by weight. The fibers obtained from said polyolefins have high thermoweldability and good resistance to yellowing and aging.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2004
    Assignee: Montell North America Inc.
    Inventors: Millo Branchesi, Luciano Clementini, Leonardo Spagnoli
  • Patent number: 6673442
    Abstract: This invention provides polymer filaments having a multilobal cross-section. The cross-section can have a filament factor of about 2.0 or greater and a tip ratio of greater than about 0.2. The filaments may be used as-spun as a spin-oriented feed yarn or as a direct use yarn. The multifilament yarns made from these filaments are useful to make articles with subdued luster and low glitter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company
    Inventors: Stephen B. Johnson, H. Vaughn Samuelson
  • Patent number: 6673450
    Abstract: Novel filaments and yarns for carpets, upholstery and other applications, the spinneret and method for their production and carpets manufactured therefrom. The filaments of the invention are solid multi-lobal filaments of complex convex-concave surface contour possessing low luster, low moment of inertia, high color intensity upon dyeing and high covering power. Carpets manufactured therefrom possess low luster, soft hand, high covering power and high body suitable for premium residential application. The filaments of the invention are produced at high throughput and productivity by the method of the invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: John B. Boyle, Alexander Lobovsky, James A. Matrunich, Carole G. Shealy, Bruce W. Portus
  • Patent number: 6673445
    Abstract: Polybenzazole fibers wherein the mean square roughness of the fiber surface is 20 nm or less, or polybenzazole fibers wherein the X-ray meridian diffraction half-height width factor is 0.3°/GPa or less, and their utilization such as shock-resistant members and heat-resistant felt, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Toyo Boseki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Tooru Kitagawa, Hideki Sugihara, Yoshimitsu Sakaguchi, Atsushi Kaji, Yukihiro Nomura
  • Patent number: 6649264
    Abstract: A compound material including fibers which are embedded in a thermoplastic matrix has a free surface to be treated. The material has one or more capillary spaces extending between the fibers, which spaces are at least partly formed by communicating pores and which are open towards the free surface. An average diameter of the pores is greater than, equal to or not substantially less than the fiber diameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignees: Sulzer Innotec AG, Sika AG
    Inventor: Albert Maria Vodermayer
  • Patent number: 6641765
    Abstract: Described in the present invention is a polyester multifilament yarn having a high modulus and low shrinkage which provides a treated cord having high tenacity and improved dimensional stability that can be advantageously employed as a fibrous reinforcement material of rubber products such as tires and belts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Assignee: Hyosung Corporation
    Inventors: Eun-Lai Cho, Duk-Ho Oh, Song-Joo Choi
  • Patent number: 6641915
    Abstract: There is disclosed an acrylonitrile fiber bundle for a carbon fiber precursor with a total denier of 30,000 or more consisting of an acrylonitrile polymer comprising 95 wt % or more of an acrylonitrile unit, wherein the surface of filaments composing of the fiber bundle has 2 to 15 corrugation with a height of 0.5 to 1.0 &mgr;m which are substantially continuous in a longitudinal direction and an iodine adsorption per a fiber weight of the fiber bundle is 0.5 to 1.5 wt %. The fiber bundle shows a large total size, a small drying load owing to its good denseness and a good convergence so that it is suitably used as precursors for carbon fibers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Rayon Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yukio Kasabo, Katsuhiko Ikeda
  • Publication number: 20030203203
    Abstract: High strength polyethylene fibers and their applications, for example, chopped fibers, ropes, nets, ballistic materials or items, protective gloves, fiber reinforced concrete products, helmets, and other products obtained therefrom, in which the fiber is characterized in that: it contains a high molecular weight polyethylene consisting essentially of a repeating unit of ethylene; it has an intrinsic viscosity number of 5 or larger and an average strength of 22 cN/dtex or higher; and the measurement of the fiber by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) exhibits a temperature-increasing DCS curve having at least one endothermic peak over a temperature region of 140° C. to 148° C. (on the low temperature side) and at least one endothermic peak over a temperature region of 148° C.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2003
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Applicant: Toyo Boseki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yasuo Ohta, Godo Sakamoto, Tadayo Miyasaka, Takayoshi Okano, Junichi Nakahashi, Yukihiro Nomura, Takuya Konishi
  • Patent number: 6635347
    Abstract: A mixed fiber article dyed with disperse dye, composed of fiber dyeable with disperse dye and polyurethane fiber, having a color fastness to a perspiration-alkali test of grade 3 or higher according to the JIS L-0848-A Method and having a surface color shade of 20 or less in terms of L value determined by spectro-colorimetry. The dyed mixed fiber article containing polyurethane fiber can be prepared by dyeing a mixed fiber article composed of disperse dyeable fiber and polyurethane fiber, such as a co-knitted fabric, either in a dye bath in the presence of polyvalent metallic compound and tannic acid or after the co-knitted fabric has been treated in a bath containing polyvalent metallic compound and tannic acid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Assignee: Asahi Kasei Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Kiyoshi Yoshida
  • Patent number: 6620503
    Abstract: A nonwoven web and method of preparing a novel nonwoven web of synthetic fiber are disclosed. An aqueous solution amide crosslinked synthetic precursor polymer is extruded under defined conditions through a plurality of die orifices to form a plurality of threadlines. The threadlines are attenuated with a defined primary gaseous source to form fiber under conditions of controlled macro scale turbulence and under conditions sufficient to permit the viscosity of each threadline, as it leaves a die orifice and for a distance of no more than about 8 cm, to increase incrementally with increasing distance from the die, while substantially maintaining uniformity of viscosity in the radial direction, at a rate sufficient to provide fiber having the desired attenuation and mean fiber diameter without significant fiber breakage. The attenuated threadlines are dried with a defined secondary gaseous source. The resulting fibers are deposited randomly on a moving foraminous surface to form a substantially uniform web.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Jian Qin, Yong Li, Wendy Lynn Van Dyke, Anthony John Wisneski, Palani Raj Ramaswami Wallajapet, Hannong Rhim
  • Patent number: 6618492
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for determining adhesive resin distribution on wood flakes to be formed into a wood-based composite. Where a predetermined amount of adhesive resin has been sprayed onto a selected amount of wood flakes being tumbled in a blender, the method includes the steps of: removing a sample of sprayed wood flakes at the output of the blender and placing the sprayed wood flakes on a scanning bed; scanning the sprayed wood flakes with a scanner having at least 1200 dpi resolution with 1800 dpi interpolation to provide image data; using image analysis software with resin analysis macros to filter the image data to provide a high contrast image that shows each adhesive resin spot differentiated from the wood flake on which the adhesive resin spot is situated; and measuring and analyzing the high contrast image to provide an output showing at least a percent coverage of the wood flake by the adhesive resin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Assignee: Georgia-Pacific Resins, Inc.
    Inventor: James E. Romans
  • Patent number: 6610403
    Abstract: There is disclosed an acrylic fiber (a) consisting of an acrylonitrile polymer comprising an acrylonitrile unit in at least 80 wt % and less than 95 wt %, (b) having a monofilament dry strength of 2.5 to 4.0 cN/dtex, (c) having a monofilament dry elongation of 35 to 50%, and (d) forming a crack with a length of 20 &mgr;m or more in its tension rupture lateral surface along the filament axis direction when rupturing the monofilament in a tension test. The fiber has even orientation in its surface and inside; is significantly improved in dry strength, dry elongation and dyeability; and exhibits wool-like hand feeling. It is, therefore, quite suitable as a synthetic fiber for various applications such as a garment material, e.g., a sweater and a home furnishing material such as a pile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2003
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Rayon Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yukio Kasabo, Katsuhiko Ikeda, Yasuyuki Fujii, Yoshihiko Mishina, Ryo Ochi
  • Publication number: 20030157320
    Abstract: Synthetic polymer reinforcing fibers provide dispersability and strength in matrix materials such as concrete, masonry, shotcrete, and asphalt. The individual fiber bodies, substantially free of stress fractures and substantially non-fibrillatable, have generally quadrilateral cross-sectional profiles along their elongated lengths. Preferred fibers and matrix materials having such fibers demonstrate excellent finishability in addition to dispersion and toughness properties.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2003
    Publication date: August 21, 2003
    Applicant: W.R. Grace & Co.-Conn.
    Inventors: Klaus-Alexander Rieder, Neal S. Berke, Michael B. Macklin, Anandakumar Ranganathan, Saleh Altoubat
  • Patent number: 6605348
    Abstract: High strength polyethylene fibers and their applications, for example, chopped fibers, ropes, nets, ballistic materials or items, protective gloves, fiber reinforced concrete products, helmets, and other products obtained therefrom, in which the fiber is characterized in that: it contains a high molecular weight polyethylene consisting essentially of a repeating unit of ethylene; it has an intrinsic viscosity number of 5 or larger and an average strength of 22 cN/dtex or higher; and the measurement of the fiber by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) exhibits a temperature-increasing DCS curve having at least one endothermic peak over a temperature region of 140° C. to 148° C. (on the low temperature side) and at least one endothermic peak over a temperature region of 148° C.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2003
    Assignee: Toyo Boseki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yasuo Ohta, Godo Sakamoto, Tadayo Miyasaka, Takayoshi Okano, Junichi Nakahashi, Yukihiro Nomura, Takuya Konishi
  • Patent number: 6602975
    Abstract: Hydrogels of polymerized and crosslinked macromers comprising hydrophilic oligomers having biodegradable monomeric or oligomeric extensions, which biodegradable extensions are terminated on free ends with end cap monomers or oligomers capable of polymerization and cross linking are described. The hydrophilic core itself may be degradable, thus combining the core and extension functions. Macromers are polymerized using free radical initiators under the influence of long wavelength ultraviolet light, visible light excitation or thermal energy. Biodegradation occurs at the linkages within the extension oligomers and results in fragments which are non-toxic and easily removed from the body. Preferred applications for the hydrogels include prevention of adhesion formation after surgical procedures, controlled release of drugs and other bioactive species, temporary protection or separation of tissue surfaces, adhering of sealing tissues together, and preventing the attachment of cells to tissue surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Assignee: Board of Regents, The University of Texas System
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Hubbell, Chandrashekhar P. Pathak, Amarpreet S. Sawhney, Neil P. Desai, Jennifer L. Hill
  • Publication number: 20030138629
    Abstract: A yarn (21) comprising polymer or natural fibers (25) and one or more consolidated machined metal fiber (22) bundles is provided. The yarn is characterized in that the consolidated machined metal fiber bundles (22) are substantially surrounded by the polymer or natural fibers (25). Further the use of a textile fabric out of these yarns as a gas burner membrane is described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2002
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventor: Gabriel Dewaegheneire
  • Patent number: 6596373
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an epoxy resin composition for a fibre reinforced composite material, which is thermosetting resin composition where the glass transition temperature Tg of the cured material obtained by heating for 2 hours at 180° C. is at least 150° C., and the modulus of rigidity G′R in the rubbery plateau in the temperature region above the aforesaid Tg is no more than 10 MPa. In accordance with the present invention, it is possible to provide a fibre-reinforced composite material which is outstanding in its resistance to hot-wet environmental condition, impact resistance, and strength characteristics such as tensile strength and compression strength, and furthermore it is possible to provide a thermosetting resin composition and a prepreg outstanding in terms of their peel strength to a honeycomb core.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Assignee: Toray Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Hajime Kishi, Hiroaki Ninomiya, Junko Kawasaki
  • Patent number: 6596786
    Abstract: There is provided a radiation-curable coating composition containing oligomers that each have two end groups X1 and X2, wherein the end groups X1 and X2, which may be the same or different, are a photoinitiator group or an adhesion promoter group. The coating composition may exclude the presence of non-reactive photoinitiator groups and non-reactive adhesion promoter groups, each of which would fail to covalently bond itself to an oligomer backbone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Assignee: Alcatel
    Inventors: Michael B. Purvis, Igor V. Khudyakov, Bob Overton, Todd W. Gantt
  • Patent number: 6592988
    Abstract: A water- and oil-repellent, antistatic composition comprises (a) at least one nonpolymeric ionic salt consisting of (i) at least one cation selected from the group consisting of monovalent metal cations, divalent metal cations, and organic onium cations, and (ii) at least one weakly coordinating anion, the conjugate acid of the anion having an acidity greater than or equal to that of a hydrocarbon sulfonic acid, and with the proviso that the anion is organic or fluoroorganic when the cation is a metal; (b) at least one fluorochemical repellency-imparting additive or repellent; and (c) at least one insulating material. The composition exhibits good antistatic and repellency characteristics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Delton R. Thompson, Thomas P. Klun, William M. Lamanna
  • Patent number: 6593392
    Abstract: The invention provides an organic/inorganic hybrid material with low optical loss at telecommunications wavelengths. Energy curable compositions of the present invention include condensed silica nanoparticles, a fluorinated silane coupling agent, an energy curable silane coupling agent, and a halogenated monomer or oligomer. Polymeric materials of the present invention include condensed silica nanoparticles having a mixture of organosilane coupling agents covalently bound to the exterior surface of the nanoparticles and a halogenated solid polymer matrix, wherein the mixture of organosilane coupling agents includes an at least partially fluorinated coupling agent, and a coupling agent covalently bound to the polymer matrix. The materials of the present invention are useful in making low-loss optical devices for telecommunications applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Assignee: Corning Incorporated
    Inventor: Zhikai Wang
  • Patent number: 6592987
    Abstract: Wholly aromatic synthetic fibers spun from liquid-crystalline polymer solutions, having a crystal size (110 plane) of not greater than 50 Å and an ionic substance content of no more than 1.0 wt % are disclosed. Said fibers having a low ionic substance content while retaining the inherent high heat resistance and high Young's modulus, and are useful particularly for electrical and electronic parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Assignee: E. I. du Pont de Namours and Company
    Inventors: Shiro Sakamoto, Hiroyuki Suzuki
  • Patent number: 6590063
    Abstract: Copolyamides, consisting of polycondensation products of the following components: caprolactam 10 to 45 mol-%, laurolactam 30 to 55 mol-%, at least 2 dicarboxylic acids 20 to 50 mol-% of the following compounds, aliphatic &agr;,&ohgr;-dicarboxylic acids with 6 up to 14 C atoms inclusively, terephthalic acid, isophthalic acid and 2,6-naphthalene dicarboxylic acid, wherein the content of aromatic dicarboxylic acids is lower than 10 mol-%, with reference to the allover amount of the above-mentioned components, which add up to 100 mol-%, a diamine mixture in an amount that is equimolar to that of the dicarboxylic acids, chosen from the group of the following substances, hexamethylene diamine, piperazine and/or 2-methyl-1,5-diaminopentane, wherein the molar content of hexa-methylene diamine is between 75 and 95 mol-% with reference to the diamine mixture. The copolyamides according to the invention are used for the production of mono- and multifilaments, fibers, films and nets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignee: EMS-Chemie AG
    Inventors: Gerhard Poessnecker, Jürgen Spindler, Eberhard Kinkelin
  • Patent number: 6590065
    Abstract: Polytrimethylene ether ester amide and use thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignee: E. I. Du Pont de Nemours and Company
    Inventor: Marc B. Goldfinger
  • Patent number: 6582818
    Abstract: The invention relates to fibers, particularly binder fibers, made from polyesters and the polyesters themselves. The polyesters are the product of a reaction between a glycol component and a dicarboxylic acid component where the glycol component contains at least 50 mole % of a four carbon diol, such as 1,4-butanediol, or a six carbon diol, such as 1,6-hexanediol or a mixture of a four carbon and six carbon diol. Typically, the polyesters of the invention are semicrystalline and/or crystalline and have a specific melting point ranging from about 140 to about 185° C. The polyesters of the invention may be formed into a variety of products, especially binder fibers for nonwoven fabrics, textile/industrial yarns and fabrics, composites and other molded articles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Assignee: Eastman Chemical Company
    Inventors: William A. Haile, Leron R. Dean, Richard L. McConnell, Kishan C. Khemani