Abstract: The present invention provides a colored reinforced article of manufacture having a substantially uniform distribution of color. The colored reinforced article of manufacture comprises a fiber-reinforced thermosetting resin matrix and a non-appertured colored veil in the thermosetting resin matrix.

Abstract: A method of forming flame-retardant nonwoven fabrics by hydroentanglement includes providing a precursor web. The precursor web is subjected to hydroentanglement on a three-dimensional image transfer device to create a patterned and imaged fabric. Treatment with a flame-retardant binder enhances the integrity of the fabric, permitting the nonwoven to exhibit desired physical characteristics, including strength, durability, softness, and drapeability. The treated nonwoven may then be dyed by means applicable to conventional wovens.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a nonwoven fabric having a combination of a planar background element and projection elements to form a three-dimensional pattern, and a plurality of durable sub-millimeter orifices that extend at least partially through the depth of the three-dimensional pattern. The three-dimensional image of the non-apertured nonwoven fabric enhances the treatment, cleaning or cleansing performance due to pronounced surface projections that come in contact with the object to be treated or cleaned, and provide air passageways that are parallel to the plane of the substrate. Incorporation of sub-millimeter orifices in the nonwoven fabric, which extend through at least part of the nonwoven fabric, allow for transmission of fluids, as well as applied or embedded chemistries, from one side or surface of the substrate, or from a region internal to the nonwoven fabric, to the side which is in communication with the formed orifice.

Abstract: A nonwoven fabric comprises continuous polymer filaments of 0.5-3 denier that have been hydroentangled in a complex matrix of interconnecting filament loops, and that is otherwise substantially free of knotting, or of otherwise wrapping about one another. A process for making a non-woven fabric comprises continuously extruding polymer filaments of 0.5-3 denier onto a moving support, pre-entangling the filaments with water jets, and entangling filaments with a second set of water jets. An apparatus for making a nonwoven fabric comprises means for continuously extruding substantially endless polymer filaments of 0.5-3 denier onto a moving support to form an unbonded web, a pre entangling station for entangling the web with a plurality of water jets, and a plurality of water jets for final entanglement of the filament web.

Abstract: An absorbent composite sheet is thin and has a surface to be easily situated in dry condition. The absorbent composite sheet includes at least a first layer and a second layer. The first layer placed on the side of receiving a liquid is a non-woven fabric fabricated from thermoplastic synthetic resin fibers. The second layer stacked below the first layer is a non-woven fabric fabricated by entangling cellulose type fibers and thermoplastic synthetic resin fibers. The first layer and the second layer are joined by fuse bonding synthetic resin fibers of the first layer and synthetic resin fibers of the second layer. The liquid applied on a surface of the first layer is transferred to the second layer through gaps between synthetic resin fibers of the first layer.

Abstract: A pile carpet after tufting or the like is usually provided on the back with a latex precoat for stabilization and then provided with a foam back or an additional jute fabric. This environmentally hazardous method and the problem of recycling the foam back as well as the latex layer can be avoided If a nonwoven is applied instead to the tufted back of the carpet by water needling. This is possible with water needling in that the solidification of the pile fibers in or on the primary carrier takes place but no nonwoven fibers reach the visible side of the carpet. The back layer to be needled can also be made thicker and mote voluminous. Instead of a carpet, any other pile goods can also be stabilized in this fashion.

Abstract: A nonwoven fabric comprises a first layer formed of staple fibers having a smooth outer surface, a second layer formed of staple fibers having an outer surface with a roughened texture and a third, spunbond layer sandwiched between the first and second layers. A binder material is applied to the second layer which substantially covers its textured surface and is effective to resist deformation under the application of pressure even in the presence of liquid.

Abstract: The composite nonwoven fabric for protective clothing of the present invention comprises (A) a water vapor-permeable, water-resistant nonwoven fabric made of polyolefin-based ultra-fine fibers having an average fiber diameter of 5 ?m or less, (B) a heat-bonding nonwoven fabric made of thermoplastic elastomer ultra-fine fibers, and (C) a porous fabric. The nonwoven fabric B is interposed between the nonwoven fabric A and the porous fabric C, and the fabrics A, B and C being integrally bonded to each other. The composite nonwoven fabric is suitable for a protective clothing because it is water vapor-permeable and water-resistant on its outer side to be exposed to outside air, and is of high strength, sweat-absorbable and antistatic on its inner side, and also well-balanced in these properties.

Abstract: A filter media formed in accordance with the present invention comprises hydroentangled, predominantly polyester staple length fibers having a basis weight of no more than about 12 oz/yd2. The filter media exhibits a Mullen burst strength of at least about 395 psi, and machine-direction and cross-direction shrinkage of less than about 3%, preferably less than about 2%. The filter media exhibits a machine-direction tensile strength of at least about 105 lb/in, and a cross-direction tensile strength of at least about 110 lb/in.

Abstract: A method of forming durable nonwoven fabrics by hydroentanglement includes providing a precursor web comprising a blend of matrix fibers, lyocell fibers, and fusible binder fibers. The precursor web is subjected to hydroentanglement on a three-dimensional image transfer device to create a patterned and imaged fabric. Fabrics formed in accordance with the present invention exhibit significant improvements in strength while remaining drapeable and are capable of withstanding multiple laundry washing with nominal shrinkage.

Abstract: A nonwoven fabric includes a first composite layer that includes from about 50% to about 90% by weight non-thermoplastic absorbent staple fibers and from about 10% to about 50% by weight thermoplastic fibers. A preponderance of the fibers at a first outer surface of the first composite layer comprise non-thermoplastic absorbent staple fibers and a preponderance of the fibers at a second outer surface of the first composite layer comprise thermoplastic fibers. The nonwoven fabric further includes a second composite layer that includes from about 50% to about 90% by weight non-thermoplastic absorbent staple fibers and from about 10% to about 50% by weight thermoplastic fibers. The second composite layer is adjacent the second outer surface of the first composite layer.

Abstract: The present invention describes a new mattress cover sheet with barrier effect against bacteria and parasites, consisting of a spunlace fiber based fabric. The spunlace fabric mattress cover can be produced in a structure with one or more layers, and can contain antibacterial substances. The sheet subject of the invention provides an effective barrier between the person and the mattress, in particular avoiding the transfer of pollutants from the mattress to the person and at the same time protecting the hygiene of the mattress itself.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a nonwoven substrate, and specifically to a nonwoven substrate imparted with a three-dimensional image, wherein the three-dimensional nonwoven substrate is particularly suited as a support substrate for a PCB (Printed Circuit Board) and similar application. By the utilization of a hydroentangled, three-dimensionally imaged support substrate impregnated with a durable resinous matrix, PCB's, and similar applications, can be imparted with unique and useful performance properties, to improve structural performance.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a filter media comprised of an electro-conductive scrim so as to improve on the dissipation time of an electrostatic charge. Further, the present invention is directed to a method of making such a filter media, which is formed through hydroentanglement, thus avoiding the deleterious effects of mechanical needling, while providing a filter media having the requisite strength characteristics, without possessing a limiting factor in performance. The filtration media of the present invention also demonstrates a highly desirable uniformity for cost-effective use.

Abstract: Disclosed are cleaning sheets having substantial macroscopic three-dimensionality. Optionally, the macroscopically three-dimensional cleaning sheets can comprise a contractable material (e.g., a scrim material), which when heated and then cooled contracts so as to provide a macroscopic, three-dimensional structure. Macroscopic three-dimensionality is described in terms of “average peak-to-peak distance” and “surface topography index”, as well in terms of “average height differential”. Also disclosed are cleaning implements comprising a handle and the described cleaning sheets. Processes for the sheets, benefits of the processes, and articles of manufacture are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method of forming flame-retardant nonwoven fabrics by hydroentanglement includes providing a precursor web. The precursor web is subjected to hydroentanglement on a three-dimensional image transfer device to create a patterned and imaged fabric. Treatment with a flame-retardant binder enhances the integrity of the fabric, permitting the nonwoven to exhibit desired physical characteristics, including strength, durability, softness, and drapeability. The treated nonwoven may then be dyed by means applicable to conventional wovens.

Abstract: A soft, durable, nonwoven fabric formed of hydroentangled synthetic polymer fibers in sheet form. The polymer fiber is surface embossed on at least one major surface with a predetermined pattern to provide a fiber sheet having enhanced dimensional stability. The fiber sheet is surface napped to soften the surface and disturb and make indistinct the surface embossed pattern. The pattern may preferably be a twill pattern, and the napping process is preferably a wire-napping process. The fabric can be constructed into blankets and numerous apparel items.

Abstract: A nonwoven fabric comprises continuous polymer filaments of 0.5 to 3 denier that have been hydroentangled in a complex matrix for interconnecting filament loops, and that is otherwise substantially free of knotting, or of otherwise wrapping about one another. A process for making a nonwoven fabric comprises continuously extruding polymer filaments of 0.5 to 3 denier onto a moving support, pre-entangling the filaments with water jets, and entangling the filaments with a second set of water jets on a three-dimensional image transfer device. An apparatus for making a nonwoven fabric comprises means for continuously extruding substantially endless polymer filaments of 0.5 to 3 denier onto a moving support to form an unbonded web, a pre-entangling station for entangling the web with a plurality of water jets, and a plurality of water jets for final entanglement of the filament web on a three-dimensional image transfer device.

Abstract: A neckable nonwoven web is provided with a central region and two edge regions, the central region being selectively easier to neck than the two edge regions. The nonwoven fibers in the central region have a polymer composition and/or physical properties which differ from the nonwoven fibers in the two edge regions. The selectively easier necking in the central region causes the central region to neck to about the same extent as the two edge regions, which otherwise would experience greater necking than the central region if the starting nonwoven web were completely uniform. Necked nonwoven webs and neck-bonded laminates made using the improved neckable nonwoven web, are also provided.

Abstract: A porous polymeric sheet is provided having an electrostatic charge and comprising a zero-three composite of a polymeric matrix and a ferroelectric material dispersed therein. The polymeric component comprises a non-polar thermoplastic polymer, such as a polyolefin, and a second thermoplastic polymer having polar functional units, such as a telomer. The composite material is formed into a porous sheet and is electrically or corona poled to create an electret material which is well suited four use in various filtration, air-masking and dust wipe applications.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a nonwoven fabric, and more specifically to a nonwoven fabric comprised of at least one foreground region and at least one background region, wherein the foreground region of the fabric is an extension of the background region of the fabric in the z-direction and imparted with an enhanced physical and/or aesthetic performance which is dissimilar to a performance that may be imparted within the background region. The foreground region is further characterized in that such region may extend away from the background region so that a continuous or discontinuous path is described. Further still, the foreground and background regions may be of similar or dissimilar basis weights.

Abstract: A shrinkable protective material includes a nonwoven fabric bonded to a shrinkable film by an adhesive that is applied to either the nonwoven fabric or the shrinkable film in a pre-determined pattern. Upon shrinking, the nonwoven fabric separates or releases from the film and forms cushions or pillows holding the film off of the surface being protected. The edge portions of the cushions or pillows act as shock absorbers and deflect over the bonds, thus protecting the surface against the abrasive adhesively bonded portions.

Abstract: A protective layer embodying the principles of the present invention is configured for protection of automotive surfaces, including specifically, the protection of a truck-bed against wear induced by a truck-bed liner. The protective layer has a substantially planar configuration sized to permit the layer to be positioned generally between an associated truck-bed liner and a truck-bed, whereby the abrasion is significantly reduced. The layer comprises a fibrous nonwoven fabric formed from fibrous and/or filamentary elements, with the fibrous nonwoven fabric exhibiting a sufficiently reduced coefficient of friction and sufficient durability to absorb or distribute abrasive actions, while allowing passage of moisture, thus protecting the automotive surfaces against potentially detrimental environmental conditions.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a hydroentangled nonwoven fabric, the outer surface of which exhibits highly entangled fibers whereas the inner layer exhibits lightly entangled fibers. In particular, the present invention contemplates that a fabric is formed from a fibrous batt that is subjected to fluidic energy, preferably hydraulic energy, applied to one or both faces of a fibrous batt. The hydraulic energy is moderated against the basis weight of the fibrous batt to achieve the degree of surface entanglement desired. Fabrics formed in accordance with the present invention exhibit a sufficient degree of softness and non-linting performance, while providing the necessary resistance to tearing and abrasion, to facilitate use in a wide variety of applications such as cast padding or orthopedic wraps.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a hydroentangled flame-retardant nonwoven fabric, and more specifically, to a structurally stable flame-retardant fabric comprising at least two layers, wherein the fibrous components of the fabric have a synergistic relationship so as to maintain the integrity of the flame-retardant fabric upon burning.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a nonwoven fabric comprising reconstituted or regenerated fibers (hereinafter referred to as reconstituted fiber or reconstituted fibers), said nonwoven fabric exhibiting improved aesthetic and physical performance, thus permitting use of the fabric in a wide variety of consumer applications. The nonwoven fabric exhibits a three-dimensional image that is durable to both converting and end-use application. In particular, the present invention contemplates that a fabric is formed from a precursor web comprising at least one reconstituted fiber, which when subjected to hydroentanglement on a moveable imaging surface of a three-dimensional image transfer device, an enhanced product is achieved.

Abstract: A nonwoven fabric suitable to be used as a kitchen paper including thermoplastic synthetic fibers being 7˜30 mm long and as fine as of 0.1˜0.8 d, in 90˜10% by weight and pulp fibers being 2˜7 mm long, in 10˜90% by weight, these component fibers being mixed together as homogeneously as possible and mechanically entangled so as to have a basis weight of 10˜80 g/m2 as a whole.

Abstract: A mat for the computer input device known as a mouse (mouse pad) has at least one woven or knit layer or one layer of non-woven fabric made of bi-component or multi-component fibers or filaments split to form microfibers or microfilaments. The splitting is performed by high-pressure fluid jet treatment of the surface.

Abstract: A nonwoven fabric for manufacturing repeatedly re-usable clean-room protective clothing, made of super microfilaments having a titer of less the 0.2 dtex that are produced by water jet splitting multicomponent multisegment filaments having a titer of less than 2 dtex, the primary filaments being spun from the melt, aerodynamically stretched, laid to form a nonwoven fabric, and subjected to water-jet prebonding prior to splitting.

Abstract: A method of forming abrasion resistant nonwoven fabrics by hydroentanglement includes providing a precursor web. The precursor web is subjected to hydroentanglement on a three-dimensional image transfer device to create a patterned and imaged fabric. Treatment with an initial pre-dye finish enhances the integrity of the fabric, permitting the nonwoven to exhibit desired physical characteristics, including strength, durability, softness, and drapeability. The pre-dye finish treated nonwoven may then be dyed by means applicable to conventional wovens. A post-dye finish may then be applied to further enhance the performance of the nonwoven fabric.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a composite sheet material that is water vapor permeable and substantially liquid water impermeable. The composite sheet material includes an outer layer, a film, and a reinforcing layer and, preferably, has an ASTM D3833 water vapor transmission rate of greater than 250 g/m2/day, and a tensile strength of at least about 100 N/5 cm when tested in accordance with ASTM D5035. The sheet material is useful as a membrane for roofing, housewrap, insulation facing and in the fabrication of protective apparel.

Abstract: Herein provided is a water-decomposable fibrous sheet includes water-dispersible fibers having a fiber length of at most 20 mm, and a gel compound.

Abstract: A non-woven fabric of the present invention is composed primarily of entangled fluoropolymer fibers. In addition, the non-woven fabric of the present invention may be pressure and heat treated, or may be subject to elongation. This provides the non-woven fabric with superior mechanical characteristics.

Abstract: The present invention relates to fibrous web materials comprising polymeric material wherein the structure of the polymeric material contains elastic amorphous areas nano-scale-size reinforced with self arranged crystalline domains of nano-crystals.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a composite sheet suitable for use as artificial leather or a precursor to artificial leather, where both surfaces have a napped or brushed appearance. The composite sheet comprises a low-density, lightly bonded non-woven web that is stitch-bonded and bulked such that the stitch-bonding yarns are not visible to the naked eyes without the need of post-processing steps to hide the yarns. The composite sheet may have binder resin(s) dispersed therein and activated.

Abstract: Disclosed are cleaning sheets having substantial macroscopic three-dimensionality. Optionally, the macroscopically three-dimensional cleaning sheets can comprise a contractable material (e.g., a scrim material), which when heated and then cooled contracts so as to provide a macroscopic, three-dimensional structure. Macroscopic three-dimensionality is described in terms of “average peak-to-peak distance” and “surface topography index”, as well in terms of “average height differential”. Also disclosed are cleaning implements comprising a handle and the described cleaning sheets. Processes for the sheets, benefits of the processes, and articles of manufacture are also disclosed.

Abstract: Disclosed are cleaning sheets comprising an additive and perfume. The additive is preferably selected from the group consisting of wax, oil, and mixtures thereof. The cleaning sheets preferably have at least two regions, where the regions are distinguished by basis weight. In particular, the preferred cleaning sheets comprise one or more high basis weight regions having a basis weight of from about 30 to about 120 g/m2 and one or more low basis weight regions, wherein the low basis weight region(s) have a basis weight that is not more than about 80% of the basis weight of the high basis weight region(s). Also disclosed are cleaning sheets having substantial macroscopic three-dimensionality, in addition to having multiple basis weights. Optionally, the macroscopically three-dimensional cleaning sheets can comprise a scrim material, which when heated and then cooled, contracts so as to provide a macroscopic three-dimensional structure.

Abstract: The composite nonwoven fabric for protective clothing of the present invention comprises (A) a water vapor-permeable, water-resistant nonwoven fabric made of polyolefin-based ultra-fine fibers having an average fiber diameter of 5 &mgr;m or less, (B) a heat-bonding nonwoven fabric made of thermoplastic elastomer ultra-fine fibers, and (C) a porous fabric. The nonwoven fabric B is interposed between the nonwoven fabric A and the porous fabric C, and the fabrics A, B and C being integrally bonded to each other. The composite nonwoven fabric is suitable for a protective clothing because it is water vapor-permeable and water-resistant on its outer side to be exposed to outside air, and is of high strength, sweat-absorbable and antistatic on its inner side, and also well-balanced in these properties.

Abstract: A high pulp content nonwoven composite fabric is disclosed. The composite fabric contains 1) from more than about 0 to less than about 30 percent, by weight, of a nonwoven layer of conjugate spun filaments, the filaments containing at least one low-softening point component and at least one high-softening point component and having at least some exterior surfaces of the filaments composed of at least one low-softening point component; 2) more than about 70 percent, by weight, of pulp fibers; and 3) regions in which the low-softening point component at the exterior surfaces of the filaments is fused to at least a portion of the fibrous component. This high pulp content composite nonwoven fabric may be used as a heavy duty wiper or as a fluid distribution material, cover material, and/or absorbent material in an absorbent personal care product. Also disclosed is a method of making the high pulp content nonwoven composite fabric.

Abstract: An article of manufacture useful for removing allergens from surfaces comprises (a) a package; (b) cleaning sheet capable of removing allergens from surfaces; and (c) information to communicate the allergen removal ability of the cleaning sheet to consumers. A method of promoting the sale of cleaning sheets useful for removing allergens from surfaces comprises a variety of steps to inform a consumer of the allergen removal ability of the present cleaning sheets, implements, and articles and encourage the consumer to use them to remove allergens from a surface.

Abstract: The suede-finished leather-like sheet of the present invention comprises a fiber-entangled nonwoven fabric comprising a layer (I) made of a microfine fiber (A) having an average fineness of 0.5 dtex or less and a layer (II) made of a microfine fiber (B) having an average fineness equal to or less than that of the microfine fiber (A), and a polymeric elastomer impregnated in the fiber-entangled nonwoven fabric. The layers (I) and (II) are integrated by entanglement such that a ratio of the microfine fiber (A) to the microfine fiber (B) is 10/90 to 90/10 by mass. The surface of the layer (I) is a napped surface made mainly of a raised microfine fiber (A). The microfine fibers (A) and (B) are respectively formed by converting a microfine fiber-forming fiber (a) and a microfine fiber-forming fiber (b), each having an elongation at break and a tenacity of specific ranges, into microfine fibers.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to nonwoven barrier fabrics, and more specifically, to medical, hygiene and industrial articles comprised of nonwoven compound fabrics with improved barrier to basis weight performance, wherein the improved nonwoven compound fabrics are prepared by forming an intermediate nonwoven construct by supplying a strong and durable substrate layer followed by deposition of a frangible fibrous layer onto the substrate layer thereby providing nonwoven barrier materials. The so formed intermediate construct is subsequently subjected to mechanical energy which induces the frangible fibrous layer to fragment into sub-fibers exhibiting an equivalent denier as the frangible fibrous component, said sub-fibers becoming inter-engaged in the strong and durable substrate layer, thereby providing nonwoven barrier materials exhibit useful barrier performance.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a durable and imaged flame-retardant nonwoven fabric that can be used for flame-retardant apparel and other related applications. The fabric is formed by providing a precursor web consisting of a blend of melamine fibers and aramid fibers. The precursor web is hydroentangled on a three-dimensional image transfer device for formation of the fabric. The resultant fabric provides desirable air permeability and Thermal Protective Properties.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a nonwoven anti-microbial hard surface wipe, and more specifically to an anti-microbial hard surface wipe that more readily releases a disinfectant or anti-microbial agent.

Abstract: A shrinkable protective material includes a nonwoven fabric bonded to a shrinkable film by an adhesive that is applied to either the nonwoven fabric or the shrinkable film in a pre-determined pattern. Upon shrinking, the nonwoven fabric separates or releases from the film and forms cushions or pillows holding the film off of the surface being protected. The edge portions of the cushions or pillows act as shock absorbers and deflect over the bonds, thus protecting the surface against the abrasive adhesively bonded portions.

Abstract: Wet-laid nonwoven webs having mechanical reinforcement properties are provided by employing unpulped vegetable fiber bundles as the predominant fiber component. The unpulped fiber bundles have a modulus of elasticity of about 2-5×106 psi and a chopped fiber length of about 25 mm. The fibers are cordage fibers including sisal, abaca, henequen, kenaf and jute. Composites of the unpulped fiber webs with cellulosic and spunbonded sheets find application as thermoformed vehicle interior trim products.

Abstract: An entangled fabric that contains a nonwoven web hydraulically entangled with a fibrous component is provided. The nonwoven web is formed from staple fibers and is creped. For example, in one embodiment, the nonwoven web is a creped, point bonded, carded web. Excellent liquid handling properties can be achieved in accordance with the present invention without resulting in the poor liquid handling capabilities often associated with point bonded nonwoven webs. In fact, the entangled fabric of the present invention can have improved bulk, softness, and capillary tension.

Abstract: The present invention relates to personal cleansing wipes articles which have superior softness, feel and cleansing properties. The wipes of the present invention comprise a substrate and an aqueous liquid cleansing composition which is coated onto or impregnated into said substrate to the extent of from about 100% to about 400% by weight of the substrate. The substrate is a single-layer, nonwoven substrate which is formed from hydroentangled fibers. Upon a substantial portion of a base surface comprising the substrate there exists a three-dimensional pattern comprising a plurality of discrete, raised fibrous regions. The raised fibrous regions have a density which is substantially the same as the density of the base surface. The raised fibrous regions are joined to the base surface by a fibrous transition region. The aqueous liquid cleansing composition comprises an effective amount of a cleansing surfactant.

Abstract: A nonwoven fabric includes a cohesively integrated web of hydrodynamically entangled short-staple or “waste cotton” fibers. A batt of waste cotton fibers is hydrodynamically needled by high-pressure streams of water. The hydrodynamic energy of the streams causes the fibers to cohere and to become mutually entangled, which in turn results in a fabric of sufficient strength to be used for, among other things, a bag for a bulk material and particularly a bag or cover for a cotton bale.

Abstract: A stretchable laminate is formed by providing a hydroentangled nonwoven fabric exhibiting cross-direction extensibility and recovery, which fabric comprises a nonwoven web of staple length fibers of about 0.8 to 3.0 denier having a basis weight of about 1.0 to 4.0 ounces per square yard. A polymeric binder composition substantially uniformly applied to the nonwoven web imparts desired elasticity to the web, with the fabric exhibiting at least about 50% extensibility in a cross-direction thereof, and at least about 90% recovery in a cross-direction. The nonwoven web may comprise synthetic fibers, natural fibers, and blends thereof, as well as continuous filaments. An elastomeric composition comprising polyurethane or polyvinylchloride is applied to the extensible nonwoven fabric, which forms the stretchable laminate. The laminate provides a highly conformable and aesthetically pleasing leather-like product.