| abstract |
Cross-linked polyvinyl alcohol fibers prepared from a water-soluble polyvinyl alcohol, which satisfy the following requirements: n (1) a water absorption in water at 30° C. ranging from 10 to 100 times the weight of the fibers; n (2) a fiber diameter in water at 30° C. as a result of absorbing water ranging from 2 to 10 times the diameter of the fibers not having absorbed water; and n (3) a melting point ranging from 160 to 220° C., and a heat of fusion ranging from 40 to 100 J/g. |