Hoechst Celanese Corporation

North Carolina State University

Gerald Peter Rumierz

Clinton Dale Felton

William E Bessey

Dai W Kim

Joseph S W Haas

A rigid three-dimensionally shaped fiber network structure having improved post-yield dimensional recovery is provided. The fiber network structure is formed from a fabric containing (A) at least one oriented, semi-crystalline monofilament yarn made from a first thermoplastic polymer, and (B) a second thermoplastic polymer which effects bonding of the monofilament cross-over points. The fiber network structures are useful in a variety of articles, including sandwich panels, various spacers, drainage systems, and energy absorption structures.

Rigid fiber network structures having improved post-yield dimensional recovery, method of making same, and articles incorporating same

Laminated fiber network structures having high resilience, good cushioning properties, and excellent impact-resistance include at least one layer of a three-dimensional fiber network material and a second layer, which may be a planar material (e.g. a fabric, film, or sheet) or a second layer of a three-dimensional fiber network material. The surfaces of the two layers face each other and are bonded together at their points of contact. The three-dimensional fiber network material is a fabric made from thermoplastic filaments that are at least 0.1 mm in diameter, where the fabric has an array of projections and optional depressions pushed out of one or both sides of the fabric.

Laminated fiber networks

A rigid three-dimensionally shaped fiber network structure having improved post-yield dimensional recovery is composed of a deformed textile fabric network structure containing: (A) at least one oriented, semi-crystalline monofilament yarn containing a thermoplastic polymer and disposed in the deformed fabric so as to provide a plurality of monofilament cross-over points therein; and (B) a cured crosslinkable resin impregnating the deformed network structure so as to effect bonding of all or substantially all of the monofilament cross-over points. The network structure is made by subjecting the monofilament yarn to a fabric-forming process to form a deformable fabric, subjecting the deformable fabric to an area-enlarging deformation process to form the initial three-dimensionally shaped network structure composed of a deformed textile fabric, demolding the initial network structure and then curing the crosslinkable resin, which has been added before the deformation process, before demolding and/or after demolding. Curing of the crosslinkable resin bonds all or substantially all of the monofilament cross-over points, thereby converting the initial network structure into a rigid final network structure having improved post-yield dimensional recovery.

Growing community of inventors

Tega Cay, SC, United States of America

Gerald Peter Rumierz