Multi-component fibers and uses thereof

Abstract

A bicomponent fiber comprises a core component formed from a rate-sensitive material; and a sheath component surrounding the core component, the sheath component being formed from a non-rate-sensitive polymer.

1 . A bicomponent fiber comprising:
 a core component formed from a rate-sensitive material; and   a sheath component surrounding the core component, the sheath component being formed from a non-rate-sensitive polymer.   
     
     
         2 . The fiber of  claim 1 , wherein the rate-sensitive material is present in the fiber in an amount of 70-85 wt. %, based on the total weight of the fiber. 
     
     
         3 . The fiber of  claim 1 , wherein the non-rate-sensitive material is present in the fiber in an amount of 15-30 wt. %, based on the total weight of the fiber. 
     
     
         4 . The fiber of  claim 1 , wherein the rate-sensitive material is temperature-sensitive and/or pressure-sensitive. 
     
     
         5 . The fiber of  claim 1 , wherein the rate-sensitive material comprises a dilatant material. 
     
     
         6 . The fiber of  claim 1 , wherein the non-rate-sensitive polymer comprises a synthetic polymer. 
     
     
         7 . The fiber of  claim 1 , wherein the non-rate-sensitive polymer comprises a natural polymer. 
     
     
         8 . The fiber of  claim 1 , wherein the non-rate-sensitive polymer comprises a polyamide, polyester, polyethylene, polypropylene, polybutylene, polyacrylic, cotton, wool, silk, or a combination of two or more of the foregoing. 
     
     
         9 . The fiber of  claim 1 , wherein the rate-sensitive polymer comprises a thermoplastic polyester elastomer. 
     
     
         10 . A fabric comprising the bicomponent fiber of  claim 1 . 
     
     
         11 . An article comprising the bicomponent fiber of  claim 1 .