Abstract: A sheet flooring product, including a homogeneous melt processable resin layer formed of a melt processable, non-plastisol layer, and an adjacent felt layer produced by a beater saturated method and having a substantially uniform thickness of between about 5 mils and about 40 mils. The melt processable resin layer is preferably applied by a hot melt calender (“HMC”) process to achieve enhanced can drop, refrigerator drag and indentation values.

Abstract: A method for fabricating fiber-reinforced composite structures, including centrifuge rotors, by resin transfer molding (RTM) is disclosed. The method involves loading reinforcing fibers into a mold and then injecting resin into the mold to coat the fibers to form the composite structure. Two types of reinforcing fibers are used—fabric preforms at the surfaces of the structure and chopped fibers at the interior of the structure. Also disclosed is a fiber-reinforced composite structure comprising a skin layer of reinforcing fabric, chopped fibers distributed throughout the interior of the structure, and epoxy resin that binds the fabric and chopped fibers together into a fiber-reinforced composite structure. The resin transfer molding method is especially useful for fabricating composite centrifuge rotors.

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.

Abstract: The invention concerns a dewatering belt (1, 13, 17, 25, 30), in particular as a drying screen for paper machines, which is assembled from a plurality of plate-shaped planar elements (2, 14, 18, 24, 26, 27, 31, 32, 40) that, in order to adjust the permeability, have passthrough openings (41) and/or leave gaps (19, 36) between them, the planar elements (2, 14, 18, 24, 26, 27, 31, 32, 40) being coupled to one another, by way of flexible connecting cords (9, 16, 22, 23, 28, 37) which pass through the planar elements (2, 14, 18, 24, 26, 27, 31,. 32, 40), in such a way that the longitudinal forces acting on the dewatering belt (1, 13, 17, 25, 30) during operation act on them. The dewatering belt (1) is characterized in that the connecting cords (9, 16, 22, 23, 28, 37) extend in the longitudinal direction of the dewatering belt (1, 13, 17, 25, 30) and are anchored at their ends in end pieces (5, 6, 20, 29, 38) which can be coupled to one another.

Abstract: A nonwoven layer of sheeting is extrusion-coated on one side with ethylene polymers, propylene polymers, modified propylene polymers and fillers. The nonwoven layer of sheeting is formed from polyethylene, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate and/or polyamide. The coated nonwoven sheeting is subjected to longitudinal and transverse stretching and white crackling cloudiness develops. The extrusion-coated nonwoven sheeting has a textile texture and is suitable for use in hygiene products, in medical products, in the textile and clothing industry, in the automobile industry and in construction products.

Abstract: A polymer composite comprising an epoxy vinyl ester resin or unsaturated polyester matrix having dispersed therein particles derived from a multilayered inorganic material which possesses organophilic properties. The dispersion of the multilayered inorganic material in the polymer matrix is such that an increase in the average interlayer spacing of the layered inorganic material occurs to a significant extent resulting in the formation of a nanocomposite.

Abstract: Composites with a textile character with a high water vapor permeability and a high waterproofness, consisting of textile fabrics, film coatings and/or extrusion coatings of modified polypropylenes and unmodified polypropylenes and optionally of an intermediate layer of bonding agent between the textile fabric and the film coating and/or extrusion coating. The composites with a textile character are produced by extrusion coating or film coating of the textile fabrics. Areas of use for the composite with a textile character are the hygiene sector, the medical sector, the textile and clothing industry, the automobile industry and construction.

Abstract: This invention relates to compositions, paper, thermoplastic sheets, and medical paper containing cellulose ester alkylpolyglycoside (APG) or a mixture of APG and polyether glycol, and, optionally, cellulose. The process of incorporating APG or a mixture of APG and polyether glycol in paper composed of cellulose ester fibers and cellulose fibers and to calendaring of such paper is also disclosed.

Abstract: A reversibly extensible polymeric film is hot formed, as by coextrusion, using selected polymeric materials that provide discrete areas of elastic and inelastic polymeric materials arranged in laterally spaced and longitudinally elongated lanes or stripes connected by integrally formed joints therebetween. The elastic materials comprise block polymers selected from tetrablock, triblock and diblock polymers, and the inelastic material is selected from polyolefins such as polyethylene, polypropylene, poly(ethylene-propylene), poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate), poly(styrene-butadiene), or copolymers or blends thereof.

Abstract: An anti-static film comprises one or more polymeric film layers having a layer of conductive, low capacitance material secured thereto. The polymeric film layer(s)may have pinholes formed therethrough. The conductive, low capacitance layer comprises one or more strands of conductive, low capacitance fiber arranged in a predetermined pattern. The polymeric film layer(s) are bonded to the conductive, low capacitance material using a polymeric layer formed from the same material as the film layers. Alternatively, the layer of conductive, low capacitance material may be omitted, with the adhesive layer being extruded onto the polymeric layer having pinholes formed therethrough. Similarly, an anti-static fabric comprises one or more layers of woven polymeric material having a layer of conductive, low capacitance material secured thereto. Alternatively, the fabric may have a polymeric layer extruded thereon in which pinholes are formed.

Abstract: The present invention is generally directed to elastic nonwoven webs and films made from thermoplastic polymers. In particular, the present invention is directed to forming nonwoven webs and films from an elastomeric polymer and then cross-linking the polymer in order to improve the stretch characteristics of the article. Cross-linking also makes the article more temperature resistant. in one embodiment, the elastomeric polymer is a metallocene-catalyzed copolymer of polyethylene. Elastic layers made in accordance with the present invention can be combined into laminates and used in various products, such as diapers and other personal care articles.

Abstract: A tissue product is disclosed which provides a cooling feeling when in contact with skin. A suitable implementation includes a soft uncreped throughdried tissue product having generally uniformly distributed surface deposits of a chemical composition that contains an oil, a wax, and preferably a fatty alcohol. Suitable compositions include those which have a melting point of from about 30° C. to about 70° C. and which are applied to the outer surfaces of the tissue product in melted form.

Abstract: An improved fabric for use in applications such as furniture upholstery is provided which possesses desirable flexibility, cleanability, and fluid resistant properties. The fabric includes a textile substrate treated with a fluorochemical stain resist agent. The treated textile substrate is covered substantially on the back with a layer of extrusion coated thermoplastic polymer which is pressed at least partially into the fabric substrate. A process for forming the fluid shield fabric according to the present invention is also provided. Preferably, the fabric is comprised of solution dyed nylon and the polymeric material is ethylene methyl acrylate polymer.

Abstract: A stain resistant laminated sheet material is provided which comprises: a base fabric; a stain resistant resin layer provided on at least one side of the base fabric; and a color layer provided on the stain resistant resin layer. The color layer is soluble in a particular solvent in which the stain resistant resin layer is insoluble.

Abstract: A method for coating cloth especially fiberglass sheets with a resin and resulting structure is provided. The coating is performed in two steps. In the first step, essentially all of the strands of the fiberglass are coated with the resin solvent mixture as well as most of the interstices or openings, although some of the interstices or openings have holes where the coating does not completely fill in. This first coating is then partially cured to the extent that it will not redissolve in a second coating of the same resin solution. The coated fiberglass with partially cured resin thereon is then given a second coating of the same resin mixture which coats the first coating and fills in any holes in the first coating. This second coating is then partially cured, which advances the cure of the first coating and results in an impregnated fiberglass cloth structure for use as sticker sheets. This substantially reduces pinholing.

Abstract: A method for coating cloth especially fiberglass sheets with a thermosetting resin and resulting structure is provided. The coating is performed in two steps. In the first step, essentially all of the strands of the fiberglass are coated with the resin/solvent mixture while maintaining at least some of the interstices or openings essentially free of the solvent mixture. This first coating is then partially cured to between about 70% and 90% of full cure. The coated fiberglass with partially cured resin thereon is then given a second coating of either the same or different thermosetting resin mixture which coats the first coating and fills in the interstices between the fibers. This second coating is then partially cured, which advances the cure of the first coating past 80% full cure and results in an impregnated fiberglass cloth structure for use as sticker sheets.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a fabric mesh reinforced monolithic thermoplastic membrane. The open mesh fabric is drawn into the gap between two calender rollers of a membrane extruder, a molten first thermoplastic material is extruded into the throat of the gap between the first roller and the first side of the fabric mesh, while a second molten thermoplastic material is simultaneously extruded into the throat of the gap between the second roller and the second side of the fabric mesh. The composite material is then drawn through the gap between the first and second rollers to force the molten first and second thermoplastic materials into and through the open mesh of the fabric to fuse and bond the molten first and second thermoplastic materials in and about the fabric mesh to form the fabric mesh reinforced monolithic thermoplastic membrane.

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: An adhesive tape is provided which comprises a woven cloth, a polymer embedded into the cloth so as to cause the warp and weft fibers of the cloth to bond together at their overlapping points but not to completely encase the fibers, and a pressure sensitive adhesive coated onto at least a portion of the polymer, wherein the adhesive tape is hand tearable in the down-web and in the cross-web direction. A method of manufacturing such a tape is also provided.

Abstract: An adhesive tape is provided which comprises a woven cloth, a polymer embedded into the cloth so as to cause the warp and weft fibers of the cloth to bond together at their overlapping points but not to completely encase the fibers, and a pressure sensitive adhesive coated onto at least a portion of the polymer, wherein the adhesive tape is hand tearable in the down-web and in the cross-web direction. A method of manufacturing such a tape is also provided.

Abstract: Tent material is provided having a resin coating. High UV resistance may be provided using resin coating with titanium dioxide. Colored tent material is provided using a resin coating with a coloring ingredient. Colored tent material having high UV resistance is provided using a resin coating with titanium and a coloring ingredient. Method is provided including laminating coating and fabric. Tent material retains its tensile and tear strength over prolonged exposure to outdoor conditions and after repeated laundering. Tent material is provided having brilliant colors and that can utilize colorless, white or multi-colored fabrics. Tent material provided retains its color and does not peel or flake over prolonged exposure to outdoor conditions.

Abstract: An adhesive tape is provided which comprises a woven cloth, a polymer embedded into the cloth so as to cause the warp and weft fibers of the cloth to bond together at their overlapping points but not to completely encase the fibers, and a pressure sensitive adhesive coated onto at least a portion of the polymer, wherein the adhesive tape is hand tearable in the down-web and in the cross-web direction. A method of manufacturing such a tape is also provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to absorbent articles such as sanitary napkins, panty liners, and incontinence pads. More particularly, the present invention relates to absorbent articles, such as sanitary napkins, that have undergarment covering components (or "side wrapping elements") that automatically wrap the sides of a wearer's panties and provide an alternative to conventional side flaps. The side wrapping elements have at least one zone of extensibility and at a region therein that is stiffer than the zone of extensibility.

Abstract: A method for fabricating fiber-reinforced composite structures, including centrifuge rotors, by resin transfer molding (RTM) is disclosed. The method involves loading reinforcing fibers into a mold and then injecting resin into the mold to coat the fibers to form the composite structure. Two types of reinforcing fibers are used--fabric preforms at the surfaces of the structure and chopped fibers at the interior of the structure. Also disclosed is a fiber-reinforced composite structure comprising a skin layer of reinforcing fabric, chopped fibers distributed throughout the interior of the structure, and epoxy resin that binds the fabric and chopped fibers together into a fiber-reinforced composite structure. The resin transfer molding method is especially useful for fabricating composite centrifuge rotors.

Abstract: Improved tuftable primary backings, carpets made from the backings and methods for making backings are disclosed. The backings employ fabrics made from serrated tape yarns which are coated with a film of a thermoplastic material, and optionally include a tufting lubricant applied to at least a portion of the serrated yarns.

Abstract: Disclosed are thermoplastic polyurethanes obtainable by reacting (a) a polyester-polyol that satisfies all the following requirements (1) to (4):(1) its ester group content (number of ester bonds/number of all carbon atoms) is from 0.08 to 0.17;(2) it has hydroxyl groups of from 2.01 to 2.08 per one molecule;(3) it has a number average molecular weight of from 1000 to 7000; and(4) it has a crystallization enthalpy (.DELTA.H) of 70 J/g or less,(b) an organic diisocyanate and (c) a chain extender at a ratio that satisfies the following numerical formula (i):1.00.ltoreq.b/(a+c).ltoreq.1.

Abstract: A fabric possessing both cleanability and fluid resistant properties is provided which can, if desired, be transfer printed. The fabric includes a textile substrate treated with a fluorochemical stain resist agent. The treated textile substrate is covered substantially on the back with a layer of extrusion coated thermoplastic polymer which is pressed at least partially into the fabric substrate. A process for forming the fluid shield fabric according to the present invention is also provided.

Abstract: A method of directing extruded synthetic fibers toward at least one surface of a mineral fiber insulation batt, and corresponding apparatus and resulting product. In certain embodiments, a row of extrusion heads is provided for directing extruded synthetic fibers (e.g. fibers including ethyl vinyl acetate or EVA) toward a surface(s) of the batt(s) to be impregnated with same. Optionally, extrusion heads may be provided all around the batts so as to impregnate substantially all surfaces thereof with the extruded synthetic fibers. As the fibers exit the heads, they are hit with pressurized heated air streams which cause them to go into an insipid spin which increases directional tensile strength of the resulting batt in all directions. In certain embodiments, every other batt of a plurality of batts passes over an elongated member which extends over top of the conveyor in order to more efficiently impregnate edge surfaces of the batts.

Abstract: A film having a width of at least about one foot as defined by the cross machine direction thereof and a substantially uniform average thickness of less than about 10 mils is formed of a crosslinkable thermoplastic olefin polymer, a crosslinking agent, and preferably a flame retardant. The film can be combined with a suitable substrate to form a prepreg or coated substrate, and the prepreg or coated substrate can be subsequently treated under conditions to crosslink the olefin polymer and to form a rigid composite structure. The composite structure is particularly useful for printed circuit board applications.

Abstract: An anisotropic elastic web, particularly an anisotropic elastic film layer having a machine direction and a cross direction and having a thickness of from 20 to 300 microns formed of an extruded blend of a block copolymer elastomer portion and a polyolefin polymer portion blended in a ratio of from 10:1 to 0.4:1, respectively. The elastomer portion generally is a block copolymer elastomer formed of A blocks and B blocks, the A blocks are formed predominately of monoalkenyl arene and the B blocks are formed predominately of conjugated diene. The polyolefin portion is comprised predominately of an inelastic fiber forming polyolefin polymer, copolymer or blend. The anisotropic film layer has a F10 force Ratio (MD to CD) of at least 1.5. This anisotropic elastic web is usable in a variety of garment applications where an elastic is supplied in roll form and requires strength in a machine direction and elastic properties in a cross direction.

Abstract: A water resistant and vapour phase corrosion inhibitor composite material for wrapping around metallic items for protection and to reduce corrosion during storage and transportation. The composite material comprises a high strength, tear resistant, flexible scrim, a low density layer impregnated with a solid form vapour phase corrosion inhibitor, and a barrier layer to reduce the transmission of water, water vapour, oxygen and other environmental gases through the composite material. The barrier layer also reduces the atmospheric loss of gaseous vapour phase corrosion inhibitor from around the wrapped item. Each layer is formed from a polyolefin material to create a multi-layered polyolefin composite material that is easily recyclable.

Abstract: A plastic sheet is extruded and a layer of redwood, cedar or other bark which has been finely separated is hot rolled into the two faces. The bark is decorative and also protects the sheets from ultraviolet light destruction. The sheets can then be hot worked into corrugated, design-embossed sheets and into many tubular or other hollow or open-sided shapes.

Abstract: Decorative arts substrate comprising a laminate as made by adhering one or two non-woven fabrics (12, 14) to a freshly extruded resin core layer (10), the laminate as a whole having characteristics of cutting without fraying, overall thickness between 0.005 and 0.020 in. including surface layer thickness(es) of 0.005-0.01 in. each, and characteristics of paintability and adhesive and controllable thermoformability of the product as a whole.

Abstract: Multi-layer covering articles having a base layer adapted to yieldably conform to a surface to be covered and having properties appropriate for a particular application in which the article is to be used, and a thermoplastic surface layer bonded to a surface of the base layer and incorporating a reinforcing material to provide strength and tear resistance for the covering article. The reinforcing material permits the surface layer to function as the strength-providing member of the article, permitting the base layer to be designed solely in accordance with the requirements of a particular application without regard to its strength.

Abstract: A method and compositions for removing organic contaminants from contaminated liquid, gas, or soil in fluent form are easily practiced and handled, highly absorbent, and readily collected. A foamed sheet, film, strands, or filament mat is formed from a composition comprising 5-49% by weight polystyrene, polypropylene, or other polymer; about 0-1% by weight blowing agent such as sodium tetraborate; and substantially the balance of elastomeric material. Contaminated liquid, gas, or soil in fluid form, or mixtures thereof into contact with the sheet, film, strands, or mat, so that the sheet, film, strands, or mat absorb at least 90% (typically at least 100%) of their weight of organic contaminants from the contaminated material. A sheet or film may be formed by extruding through a sheet or film die a composition of 10-45% polystyrene, 0.

Abstract: An adhesive tape is provided which comprises a woven cloth, a polymer embedded into the cloth so as to cause the warp and weft fibers of the cloth to bond together at their overlapping points but not to completely encase the fibers, and a pressure sensitive adhesive coated onto at least a portion of the polymer, wherein the adhesive tape is hand tearable in the down-web and in the cross-web direction. A method of manufacturing such a tape is also provided.

Abstract: A method for coating cloth especially fiberglass sheets with a resin and resulting structure is provided. The coating is performed in two steps. In the first step, essentially all of the strands of the fiberglass are coated with the resin solvent mixture while maintaining the interstices or openings essentially free of the solvent mixture. This first coating is then partially cured to the extent that it will not redissolve in a second coating of the same resin solution. The coated fiberglass with partially cured resin thereon is then given a second coating of the same resin mixture which coats the first coating and fills in the interstices between the fibers. This second coating is then partially cured, which advances the cure of the first coating and results in an impregnated fiberglass cloth structure for use as sticker sheets.

Abstract: The present invention relates to fluid pervious, dispersible, and flushable webs particularly suited for use in a disposable absorbent article, such as a diaper, sanitary napkin, panty liner, incontinence pad, or the like. The present invention further relates to such webs which also include an improved, functional textured surface so as to be suitable for use as a topsheet on such a disposable absorbent article.The present invention provides a fluid pervious web which disperses into fragments which are readily flushable in a normal toilet. The web preferably comprises a wetlaid apertured tissue having a temporary wet strength resin incorporated therein. The web preferably further includes a plurality of individual fibrils on a body-facing surface thereof, so as to provide a clean and dry tactile impression in use. The fibrils serve to separate the wearer's skin from the underlying tissue substrate in use.

Abstract: A fluid impervious and non-slip fabric is manufactured by thermally laminating a polyolefin film onto a non-woven fabric backing. The polyolefin film preferably comprises a polyblend of propylene copolymer and polyethylene. A shoe cover manufactured from the above laminated fabric has enhanced non-slip and fluid impervious properties.

Abstract: A breathable laminate comprises at least two porous webs laminated together with a porous adhesive matrix, preferably a random fibrous adhesive pattern having a coat weight of between 1.5 and 12 grams per square meter. The two or more porous webs comprise woven or non-woven materials and the resulting breathable fabric or laminate has good hand and flexibility. Breathable fabric is adhered to foam by such random fibrous adhesive patterns of similar coat weights. Coating widths of up to 80 inches or more are produced in a slot die fed by a selected plurality of recessed lands within the die, with motors and pumps controlled to maintain consistent, uniform coat weights regardless of coat widths and substrate speeds selected. Single ply coated webs, apparatus and methods are disclosed.

Abstract: A mineral fiber (e.g. fiberglass) thermal insulation batt is disclosed wherein a base mineral fiber layer is impregnated with a two-layer layering system so as to produce a batt which is substantially vapor impermeable with a perm vapor rating less than about one. The first layer of the layering system is of a low melt material while the second layer is of a high melt material, the first layer being sandwiched between the base insulating layer and the second layer, and functioning to bond the layering system to the base. In certain embodiments, the first layer includes quick blooming ethyl vinyl acetate (e.g. from about 10-25%) and a low density (e.g. 22-26 lbs. per cubic foot) polyethylene, and the second layer includes high density (e.g. 28-38 lbs. per cubic foot) polyethylene. The resulting insulation batt is vapor impermeable, less susceptible to cold-crack, easier to manufacture, a better fire retardant, more durable, and easier to handle.

Abstract: There is provided a melt extrudable, moisture curable thermoplastic polymer which is produced from a silane modified elastomeric polymer and which has improved hysteresis, reduced stress decay and improved creep properties. The polymer may be processed into a nonwoven web, film or foam which may be laminated to other materials such as spunbond polyolefin layers and may be used in medical, personal care, feminine hygiene and other applications.

Abstract: There is provided a melt extrudable, moisture curable thermoplastic polymer which is produced from a silane modified elastomeric polymer and which has improved hysteresis, reduced stress decay and improved creep properties. The polymer may be processed into a nonwoven web, film, fiber or foam which may be laminated to other materials such as spunbond polyolefin layers and may be used in medical, personal care, feminine hygiene and other applications.

Abstract: The present invention provides a three-dimensional, macroscopically expanded, apertured, laminate web suitable for use as a topsheet on an absorbent article and a method for making the same. The web includes a first layer of substantially transparent, polymeric material having an inner surface and an outer surface. A nonwoven web is secured to the inner surface of the substantially transparent polymeric material and is visible through the substantially transparent polymeric material. The presence of the nonwoven web creates the appearance of a fibrous web which is perceived as soft and skin friendly while still maintaining the fluid transport benefits of prior art plastic webs.

Abstract: The present invention relates to absorbent articles such as sanitary napkins, panty liners, and incontinence pads. More particularly, the present invention relates to absorbent articles, such as sanitary napkins, that have undergarment covering components (or "side wrapping elements") that automatically wrap the sides of a wearer's panties and provide an alternative to conventional side flaps. The side wrapping elements have at least one zone of extensibility and at a region therein that is stiffer than the zone of extensibility.

Abstract: A coated fabric having a first surface engagable by hooks and a second surface having thereon a continuous coating of a synthetic polymeric composition. An example of a surface engagable by hooks is a surface having a plurality of loops. The fabric is especially suitable for use in the preparation of a releasably attachable abrasive sheet material. The continuous coating of synthetic polymeric material typically is applied by melt extrusion.