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Abstract

A moldable composite sheet having improved adhesion characteristics, particularly at elevated service temperatures, as well as improved sound absorption and attenuation of transmitted sound intensities. In one aspect, the composite sheet may be a porous fiber-reinforced thermoplastic comprising discontinuous reinforcing fibers and having an adhesive skin layer covering. Generally, the-composite sheet may have a void content or porosity from about 5% to about 95% by volume of the sheet, an areal weight between about 400 g/m.sup.2 to about 4000 g/m.sup.2 and a fiber content from about 20% to about 98% by weight. The composite sheet can be molded via low pressure processes, such as thermoforming, match metal molding on stops, vacuum forming and pressure forming, to produce durable automotive interior trim parts capable of withstanding service temperatures exceeding 100.degree. C. for extended periods of time along with improved sound absorption capabilities exceeding a noise reduction coefficient (NRC) rating of 0.5.

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First Claim