| abstract |
Multifilament bundles are impregnated with an ultraviolet curable resin to form a composite material suitable for use as a strength member in cables and other applications. The inventive coatings obtain good wetting of the filaments, allowing rapid penetration into the roving or yarn. A much faster coating and curing operation is obtained as compared to prior art methods. Fiberglass strength members made by this technique are especially advantageous for use in optical fiber cables where high strength and a low thermal coefficient of expansion are desired, as well as nonconductivity to protect against lightning strikes. |