20140272318 | COMPOSITES AND ARTICLES MADE FROM NONWOVEN STRUCTURES - The present invention generally relates to composites and articles made from nonwoven structures. One aspect of the invention is generally directed to nonwoven structures which are heated and/or pressed to form a substantially rigid article. In some cases, the nonwoven structure may be heated to temperatures greater than the glass transition temperature but less than the melting temperature of a polymer within the nonwoven structure. Such articles may exhibit creep of the polymer around other fibers in the nonwoven structure, but without any evidence of melting and/or flow. In addition, in some embodiments, such articles may have relatively large void volumes, or exhibit properties such as low flammability, smoke resistance, or acoustic insulation. Other aspects of the present invention are generally directed to systems and methods for making such articles, methods of use of such articles, kits comprising such articles, etc. | 09-18-2014 |
20140273705 | COMPOSITES COMPRISING NONWOVEN STRUCTURES AND FOAM - The present invention generally relates to nonwoven structures and composites comprising such nonwoven structures, particularly structures incorporating foam, and methods of making and use thereof. One aspect of the invention is generally directed to composites comprising a nonwoven structure immobilized to foam, e.g., using adhesive, needling, or other techniques. The nonwoven structure may comprise any of a variety of fibers. In certain embodiments, the composite may be substantially thermally insulating and/or acoustic insulating. Other aspects of the present invention are generally directed to systems and methods for making such composites, methods of use of such composites, kits comprising such composites, and the like. | 09-18-2014 |