Relatively inexpensive thermoformable mat and rigid laminate formed

Abstract

A relatively inexpensive mat is provided which through the application of heat and pressure readily can be densified to form rigid shaped articles. The mat is substantially free of a binder (e.g., a latex binder) and consists essentially of a substantially random array of (a) relatively coarse cellulosic fibers, (b) thermoplastic synthetic polymer fibrils, (c) non-fibrous thermoplastic synthetic polymer particles, and (d) substantially void-free substantially water-insoluble particulate inorganic material (e.g., talc) in the specified quantities. The mat preferably is formed by wet-laying from an aqueous dispersion wherein the (c) and (d) components are dispersed among and physically retained by the (a) and (b) components. A plurality of the mats while stacked may be subjected to heat and pressure to accomplish densification and thermal bonding within and between adjoining sheets to form a laminate. The resulting cellulosic fiber reinforced product can be used to advantage as a shaped rigid panel for use as an inner automobile door liner or in similar end uses which require a rigid sheet or panel having a predetermined configuration. A decorative surface optionally may be applied to the resulting article.