Patent ID: 8939295
Filing Date: 2015-01-27
Classification: B01D,B29C,B29K,B29L,B32B,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A multi-layer, fluid transmissive structure comprising: a first fiber layer comprising a first plurality of polymeric fibers bonded to each other at spaced apart contact points, the polymeric fibers having diameters greater than one micron and collectively defining a first plurality of interconnected interstitial spaces providing tortuous fluid flow paths and a first set of flow characteristics through a first portion of the first fiber layer; and a second fiber layer adhered to the first fiber layer, the second fiber layer comprising a second plurality of polymeric fibers bonded to each other at spaced apart contact points, the polymeric fibers having diameters greater than one micron and collectively defining a second plurality of interconnected interstitial spaces providing tortuous fluid flow paths and a second set of flow characteristics through a first portion of the second fiber layer, wherein at least a portion of the polymeric fibers in a second portion of the first layer are bonded to at least a portion of the polymeric fibers in a second portion of the second layer to form an interface zone comprising fibers of both the first and second fiber layers, the fibers collectively defining a third plurality of interstitial spaces, wherein a plurality of nanofibers is disposed within the third plurality of interstitial spaces in the interface zone and wherein the first portion of the first fiber layer and the first portion of the second fiber layer are free of nanofibers, and wherein the interface zone has a third set of flow characteristics that is different from the first set of flow characteristics and the second set of flow characteristics.