Filaments of chemically modified cellulose fibers, method of making such filaments and webs and products formed therefrom

Abstract From the Canadian patent

Chemically modified cellulose fibers such as those which have been subjected to phosphorylation or carboxymethylation or to polymer grafting-hydrolysis are refined in the presence of water, centrifuged to remove unbound water and extruded into filaments. The individual fibers are identifiable within the filaments and are generally aligned parallel to the filament axis. Certain embodiments of the filaments are highly absorbent, have fast wicking rates and may be, self-bonded to form integral nonwoven webs for uses in disposable diapers, sanitary products, wipes and the like.