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4,000 | 14,366,015 | 1,787 | An anti-reflective coating is obtained from a composition of at least one silane compound, at least one metal compound and at least one organic compound having at least two functional groups which can form a coordination polymer. | 1. A composition for producing an antireflective coating, comprising:
a) at least one hydrolyzable silane compound; b) at least one hydrolyzable metal compound, it also being possible for the compound to be present in partially hydrolyzed and/or condensed form; c) at least one organic compound having at least two functional coordinative groups or precursors thereof; and d) at least one solvent. 2. The composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the organic compound has at least two functional groups or precursors thereof, selected from the group consisting of amino group, carboxylic acid groups, hydroxyl groups, and thiols. 3. The composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the organic compound is a dicarboxylic, tricarboxylic or tetracarboxylic acid, dicarboxylic, tricarboxylic or tetracarboxylic ester and/or an anhydride and/or ester of such a compound. 4. The composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the hydrolyzable metal compound is a compound of the formula MXn,
wherein X is a hydrolyzable radical and M is selected from the group consisting of Ia, IIa, IIIa, IVa to VIa, and Ib to VIIIb, and n corresponds to the valence of the metal. 5. The composition as claimed in claim 4, wherein M is selected from the group consisting of Al, B, Sn, Fe, Ti, Zr, V, and Zn. 6. The composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the constituents a), b), and c) at least partly form a coordination polymer. 7. The composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein a molar ratio of silicon to metal ion in the compounds a) and b) is between 100:1 and 1:2. 8. A method for producing an antireflective coating, comprising:
producing a composition as claimed in claim 1; applying the composition to a substrate; and heat-treating the coating. 9. An antireflective coating obtained by the method as claimed in claim 8. 10. A coated substrate with a coating as claimed in claim 9. 11. (canceled) | An anti-reflective coating is obtained from a composition of at least one silane compound, at least one metal compound and at least one organic compound having at least two functional groups which can form a coordination polymer.1. A composition for producing an antireflective coating, comprising:
a) at least one hydrolyzable silane compound; b) at least one hydrolyzable metal compound, it also being possible for the compound to be present in partially hydrolyzed and/or condensed form; c) at least one organic compound having at least two functional coordinative groups or precursors thereof; and d) at least one solvent. 2. The composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the organic compound has at least two functional groups or precursors thereof, selected from the group consisting of amino group, carboxylic acid groups, hydroxyl groups, and thiols. 3. The composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the organic compound is a dicarboxylic, tricarboxylic or tetracarboxylic acid, dicarboxylic, tricarboxylic or tetracarboxylic ester and/or an anhydride and/or ester of such a compound. 4. The composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the hydrolyzable metal compound is a compound of the formula MXn,
wherein X is a hydrolyzable radical and M is selected from the group consisting of Ia, IIa, IIIa, IVa to VIa, and Ib to VIIIb, and n corresponds to the valence of the metal. 5. The composition as claimed in claim 4, wherein M is selected from the group consisting of Al, B, Sn, Fe, Ti, Zr, V, and Zn. 6. The composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the constituents a), b), and c) at least partly form a coordination polymer. 7. The composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein a molar ratio of silicon to metal ion in the compounds a) and b) is between 100:1 and 1:2. 8. A method for producing an antireflective coating, comprising:
producing a composition as claimed in claim 1; applying the composition to a substrate; and heat-treating the coating. 9. An antireflective coating obtained by the method as claimed in claim 8. 10. A coated substrate with a coating as claimed in claim 9. 11. (canceled) | 1,700 |
4,001 | 11,863,823 | 1,791 | A filled two-piece aluminum can contains a wine that has less than 35 ppm of free SO 2 , less than 300 ppm of chlorides, less than 800 ppm of sulfates, and less than 250 ppm of total sulfur dioxide. The can is sealed with an aluminum closure such that the pressure within the can is at least 25 psi. The inner surface of the aluminum can is coated with a corrosion resistant coating. | 1. A filled two-piece aluminum can containing a wine that has less than 35 ppm of free SO2, less than 300 ppm of chlorides and less than 800 ppm of sulfates; the can being sealed with an aluminum closure such that the pressure within the can is at least 25 psi and wherein the inner surface of the aluminum can is coated with a corrosion resistant coating. 2. A filled can as defined in claim 1 wherein the wine is characterized by having total sulphur dioxide levels less than 250 ppm. 3. A filled can as defined in claim 1 wherein the maximum oxygen content of the head space is 1% v/v. 4. A filled can as defined in claim 1 wherein the wine is carbonated. 5. A filled can as defined in claim 1 wherein the corrosion resistant coating is a thermoset coating. 6. A filled can as defined in claim 1 in which the wine is further characterized by having total nitrates less than 30 ppm, total phosphates less than 900 ppm and acidity calculated as tartaric acid in the range g/litre to 9 g/litre. 7. A filled can as defined in claim 1 in which the wine is further characterized by containing less than 1 ppm of nitrites. 8. A filled can as defined in any one of claims 1 wherein the head space in the can has the composition nitrogen 80-97% v/v and carbon dioxide 2-20% v/v. 9. A filled can as defined in claim 4 wherein the head space is predominantly carbon dioxide. 10. A process for packaging wine in two piece aluminum cans including the steps of
preparing wine characterized in that it has less than 35 ppm of free SO2, less than 300 ppm of chlorides, less than 800 ppm of sulfates; filling a two piece aluminum can body with the wine and sealing with an aluminum closure such that the pressure within the can is at least 25 psi and wherein the inner surface of the aluminum is coated with a corrosion resistant coating. 11. A process as claimed in claim 10 wherein the wine is chilled before filling. 12. A process as claimed in claim 10 wherein the wine is characterized by having total sulphur dioxide levels less than 250 ppm. 13. A process as claimed in claim 10 wherein the wine is characterized by having total nitrates less than 30 ppm, total phosphates less than 900 ppm and acidity calculated as tartaric acid in the range g/litre to 9 g/litre. 14. A process as claimed in claim 12 in which the wine is further characterized by containing less than 1 ppm of nitrites. 15. A process as claimed in claim 12 wherein the head space in the can has the composition nitrogen 80-97% v/v and carbon dioxide 2-20% v/v. 16. A process as claimed in claim 10 wherein the wine is carbonated and the head space is predominantly carbon dioxide. | A filled two-piece aluminum can contains a wine that has less than 35 ppm of free SO 2 , less than 300 ppm of chlorides, less than 800 ppm of sulfates, and less than 250 ppm of total sulfur dioxide. The can is sealed with an aluminum closure such that the pressure within the can is at least 25 psi. The inner surface of the aluminum can is coated with a corrosion resistant coating.1. A filled two-piece aluminum can containing a wine that has less than 35 ppm of free SO2, less than 300 ppm of chlorides and less than 800 ppm of sulfates; the can being sealed with an aluminum closure such that the pressure within the can is at least 25 psi and wherein the inner surface of the aluminum can is coated with a corrosion resistant coating. 2. A filled can as defined in claim 1 wherein the wine is characterized by having total sulphur dioxide levels less than 250 ppm. 3. A filled can as defined in claim 1 wherein the maximum oxygen content of the head space is 1% v/v. 4. A filled can as defined in claim 1 wherein the wine is carbonated. 5. A filled can as defined in claim 1 wherein the corrosion resistant coating is a thermoset coating. 6. A filled can as defined in claim 1 in which the wine is further characterized by having total nitrates less than 30 ppm, total phosphates less than 900 ppm and acidity calculated as tartaric acid in the range g/litre to 9 g/litre. 7. A filled can as defined in claim 1 in which the wine is further characterized by containing less than 1 ppm of nitrites. 8. A filled can as defined in any one of claims 1 wherein the head space in the can has the composition nitrogen 80-97% v/v and carbon dioxide 2-20% v/v. 9. A filled can as defined in claim 4 wherein the head space is predominantly carbon dioxide. 10. A process for packaging wine in two piece aluminum cans including the steps of
preparing wine characterized in that it has less than 35 ppm of free SO2, less than 300 ppm of chlorides, less than 800 ppm of sulfates; filling a two piece aluminum can body with the wine and sealing with an aluminum closure such that the pressure within the can is at least 25 psi and wherein the inner surface of the aluminum is coated with a corrosion resistant coating. 11. A process as claimed in claim 10 wherein the wine is chilled before filling. 12. A process as claimed in claim 10 wherein the wine is characterized by having total sulphur dioxide levels less than 250 ppm. 13. A process as claimed in claim 10 wherein the wine is characterized by having total nitrates less than 30 ppm, total phosphates less than 900 ppm and acidity calculated as tartaric acid in the range g/litre to 9 g/litre. 14. A process as claimed in claim 12 in which the wine is further characterized by containing less than 1 ppm of nitrites. 15. A process as claimed in claim 12 wherein the head space in the can has the composition nitrogen 80-97% v/v and carbon dioxide 2-20% v/v. 16. A process as claimed in claim 10 wherein the wine is carbonated and the head space is predominantly carbon dioxide. | 1,700 |
4,002 | 14,375,223 | 1,792 | A method and an apparatus for producing baked goods in a predefined shape are described, wherein a piece of dough is baked in a closed mold cavity ( 5 ) after a rising in direct succession with heat supply, wherein the piece of dough completely fills up the mold cavity ( 5 ) with a gas displacement during the baking. To ensure advantageous baked products, it is proposed that the piece of dough, with implementation of a finely-structured crust, be applied to the gas-tight mold wall which delimits the mold cavity ( 5 ), and the gas be discharged from the mold cavity ( 5 ) in the region of depressions ( 8 ) provided in the mold wall ( 7 ), which define protrusions of the baked good projecting beyond a surface region and into which the gas is displaced by the oven rising of the piece of dough. | 1. A method for producing baked goods in a predefined shape, wherein a piece of dough is baked in a closed mold cavity (5) after a rising in direct succession with heat supply, wherein the piece of dough completely fills up the mold cavity (5) with a gas displacement during the baking, wherein the piece of dough, with implementation of a finely-structured crust, is applied to the gas-tight mold wall which delimits the mold cavity (5), and the gas is discharged from the mold cavity (5) in the region of depressions (8) provided in the mold wall (7), which define protrusions of the baked good projecting beyond a surface region and into which the gas is displaced by the oven rising of the piece of dough. 2. An apparatus for producing baked goods of a predefined shape having at least one divided molding tool (1), which forms a closed mold cavity (5) having degassing openings (9), wherein the degassing openings of the molding tool (1) are arranged in the region of depressions (8) provided in the mold wall (7), which define protrusions of the baked good projecting beyond a surface region. 3. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein a plurality of molding tools (1) each made of two mold parts (2, 3) is provided, which have peripheral connecting flanges (4) along their partition plane, and the molding tools (1) can be clamped with the connecting flanges (4) between two frames (10, 11), which are connected to one another like hinges and form receptacles for the individual molding tools (1). 4. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the two frames (10, 11) are lockable with the aid of locking bars (16), which engage behind protruding heads (15) of connecting bolts (14), which are associated with one frame (10) and penetrate the other frame (11) in the closed position. 5. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the frames (10, 11) have receptacles arranged in rows for the molding tools (1), and the locking bars (16) are provided on both sides of each row of receptacles. 6. The apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the locking bars (16) of each row of receptacles are connected to one another to form a frame-type actuating unit. | A method and an apparatus for producing baked goods in a predefined shape are described, wherein a piece of dough is baked in a closed mold cavity ( 5 ) after a rising in direct succession with heat supply, wherein the piece of dough completely fills up the mold cavity ( 5 ) with a gas displacement during the baking. To ensure advantageous baked products, it is proposed that the piece of dough, with implementation of a finely-structured crust, be applied to the gas-tight mold wall which delimits the mold cavity ( 5 ), and the gas be discharged from the mold cavity ( 5 ) in the region of depressions ( 8 ) provided in the mold wall ( 7 ), which define protrusions of the baked good projecting beyond a surface region and into which the gas is displaced by the oven rising of the piece of dough.1. A method for producing baked goods in a predefined shape, wherein a piece of dough is baked in a closed mold cavity (5) after a rising in direct succession with heat supply, wherein the piece of dough completely fills up the mold cavity (5) with a gas displacement during the baking, wherein the piece of dough, with implementation of a finely-structured crust, is applied to the gas-tight mold wall which delimits the mold cavity (5), and the gas is discharged from the mold cavity (5) in the region of depressions (8) provided in the mold wall (7), which define protrusions of the baked good projecting beyond a surface region and into which the gas is displaced by the oven rising of the piece of dough. 2. An apparatus for producing baked goods of a predefined shape having at least one divided molding tool (1), which forms a closed mold cavity (5) having degassing openings (9), wherein the degassing openings of the molding tool (1) are arranged in the region of depressions (8) provided in the mold wall (7), which define protrusions of the baked good projecting beyond a surface region. 3. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein a plurality of molding tools (1) each made of two mold parts (2, 3) is provided, which have peripheral connecting flanges (4) along their partition plane, and the molding tools (1) can be clamped with the connecting flanges (4) between two frames (10, 11), which are connected to one another like hinges and form receptacles for the individual molding tools (1). 4. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the two frames (10, 11) are lockable with the aid of locking bars (16), which engage behind protruding heads (15) of connecting bolts (14), which are associated with one frame (10) and penetrate the other frame (11) in the closed position. 5. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the frames (10, 11) have receptacles arranged in rows for the molding tools (1), and the locking bars (16) are provided on both sides of each row of receptacles. 6. The apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the locking bars (16) of each row of receptacles are connected to one another to form a frame-type actuating unit. | 1,700 |
4,003 | 15,352,183 | 1,791 | A proofed frozen dough includes a dough mixture of flour, water, and optionally additives; gas bubbles dispersed throughout the dough matrix; a spent yeast component; and a preserved yeast component. According to some aspects, the preserved yeast component includes encapsulated yeast, fat-coated yeast, non-hydrated active dry yeast, non-hydrated instant yeast, non-hydrated semi-dry yeast, non-hydrated frozen yeast, or a combination thereof. A frozen dough product can be prepared by mixing dough ingredients to produce a dough composition, where the dough ingredients include water, flour, a first yeast, and a second yeast; proofing the dough, where during proofing the first yeast is spent and the second yeast is preserved; and freezing the dough after proofing. | 1. A proofed frozen dough comprising:
(a) a dough mixture of flour, water, and optionally additives, the dough mixture defining a dough matrix; (b) gas bubbles dispersed throughout the dough matrix; (c) a spent yeast component; and (d) a preserved yeast component. 2. The proofed frozen dough of claim 1, wherein the proofed frozen dough comprises about 1 to about 8 wt-% of the spent yeast component. 3. The proofed frozen dough of claim 1, wherein the spent yeast component comprises yeast from cream yeast, compressed yeast, semi-dry yeast, frozen yeast, active dry yeast, instant yeast, or a combination thereof. 4. The proofed frozen dough of claim 3, wherein the yeast has been spent during proofing. 5. The proofed frozen dough of claim 1, wherein the spent yeast component has a yeast vitality of less than 25% of its initial vitality. 6. The proofed frozen dough of claim 1, wherein the preserved yeast component has a yeast vitality of at least 50% of its initial vitality. 7. The proofed frozen dough of claim 1, wherein the proofed frozen dough comprises about 0.1 to about 2 wt-% of the preserved yeast component. 8. The proofed frozen dough of claim 1, wherein the preserved yeast component comprises encapsulated yeast, fat-coated yeast, non-hydrated active dry yeast, non-hydrated instant yeast, non-hydrated semi-dry yeast, non-hydrated frozen yeast, or a combination thereof. 9. The proofed frozen dough of claim 1, wherein the proofed frozen dough has a volume, and wherein the gas bubbles make up about 30 to about 90% of the volume of the frozen dough. 10. The proofed frozen dough of claim 1, wherein the proofed frozen dough has a density of about 0.2 to about 0.5 g/cm3. 11. The proofed frozen dough of claim 1, wherein the gas bubbles comprise gas produced by the spent yeast component during proofing. 12. The proofed frozen dough of claim 1, wherein the frozen dough is in its final shape and form for baking. 13. A method for making a frozen dough product, the method comprising:
(a) mixing dough ingredients to produce a dough composition, the dough ingredients comprising:
i. water;
ii. flour;
iii. a first yeast; and
iv. a second yeast;
(b) proofing the dough, wherein during proofing the first yeast is spent and the second yeast is preserved; and (c) freezing the dough after proofing. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein at least 60% of the first yeast is spent during proofing. 15. The method of claim 13, wherein at least 50% of the second yeast is preserved during proofing. 16. The method of claim 13, wherein the dough ingredients comprise about 1 to about 7% of the first yeast. 17. The method of claim 13, wherein the dough ingredients comprise about 0.1 to about 2% of the second yeast. 18. The method of claim 13, wherein the second yeast is different from the first yeast. 19. The method of claim 13, wherein the second yeast comprises encapsulated yeast, fat coated yeast, non-hydrated active dry yeast, non-hydrated instant yeast, non-hydrated semi-dry yeast, non-hydrated frozen yeast, or a combination thereof 20. The method of claim 13, wherein the mixing comprises mixing the water, flour, and first yeast for a first period of time, adding the second yeast and mixing the dough ingredients for a second period of time, wherein the first period of time is longer than the second period of time. 21. The method of claim 20, wherein the second period of time is from about 1 to about 2 minutes. 22. The method of claim 13 further comprising:
shaping and cutting the dough to produce a pizza crust prior to proofing;
freezing the pizza crust; and
applying toppings to the frozen pizza crust. 23. The method of claim 13 further comprising refrigerating the dough after freezing. 24. The method of claim 23, wherein the dough is refrigerated for from about 12 hours to about 7 days. 25. A method for making a leavened bakery product, the method comprising:
(a) mixing dough ingredients to produce a dough, the dough ingredients comprising:
i. water;
ii. flour;
iii. a first yeast; and
iv. a second yeast;
(b) proofing the dough to produce a proofed dough, wherein the first yeast is spent during the proofing and the second yeast is preserved during the proofing; (c) freezing the proofed dough; and (d) baking the dough to produce the leavened bakery product. 26. The method of claim 25, wherein the second yeast is different from the first yeast. 27. The method of claim 25, wherein the second yeast comprises encapsulated yeast, fat coated yeast, non-hydrated active dry yeast, non-hydrated instant yeast, non-hydrated semi-dry yeast, non-hydrated frozen yeast, or a combination thereof 28. The method of claim 25, wherein the dough does not comprise chemical leaveners. 29. The method of claim 25, wherein the dough has a first volume before the proofing step, a second volume after the proofing step, and a third volume after the baking step, and wherein the third volume is at least 50% greater than the second volume. 30. The method of claim 29, wherein the third volume is greater than the second volume due at least in part to an activity of the second yeast during the baking step. 31. The method of claim 25, wherein the dough ingredients comprise about 20 to about 40% water and about 50 to about 70% flour. 32. The method of claim 25, wherein the dough ingredients comprise about 1 to about 7% of the first yeast. 33. The method of claim 25, wherein the dough ingredients comprise about 0.1 to about 2% of the second yeast. | A proofed frozen dough includes a dough mixture of flour, water, and optionally additives; gas bubbles dispersed throughout the dough matrix; a spent yeast component; and a preserved yeast component. According to some aspects, the preserved yeast component includes encapsulated yeast, fat-coated yeast, non-hydrated active dry yeast, non-hydrated instant yeast, non-hydrated semi-dry yeast, non-hydrated frozen yeast, or a combination thereof. A frozen dough product can be prepared by mixing dough ingredients to produce a dough composition, where the dough ingredients include water, flour, a first yeast, and a second yeast; proofing the dough, where during proofing the first yeast is spent and the second yeast is preserved; and freezing the dough after proofing.1. A proofed frozen dough comprising:
(a) a dough mixture of flour, water, and optionally additives, the dough mixture defining a dough matrix; (b) gas bubbles dispersed throughout the dough matrix; (c) a spent yeast component; and (d) a preserved yeast component. 2. The proofed frozen dough of claim 1, wherein the proofed frozen dough comprises about 1 to about 8 wt-% of the spent yeast component. 3. The proofed frozen dough of claim 1, wherein the spent yeast component comprises yeast from cream yeast, compressed yeast, semi-dry yeast, frozen yeast, active dry yeast, instant yeast, or a combination thereof. 4. The proofed frozen dough of claim 3, wherein the yeast has been spent during proofing. 5. The proofed frozen dough of claim 1, wherein the spent yeast component has a yeast vitality of less than 25% of its initial vitality. 6. The proofed frozen dough of claim 1, wherein the preserved yeast component has a yeast vitality of at least 50% of its initial vitality. 7. The proofed frozen dough of claim 1, wherein the proofed frozen dough comprises about 0.1 to about 2 wt-% of the preserved yeast component. 8. The proofed frozen dough of claim 1, wherein the preserved yeast component comprises encapsulated yeast, fat-coated yeast, non-hydrated active dry yeast, non-hydrated instant yeast, non-hydrated semi-dry yeast, non-hydrated frozen yeast, or a combination thereof. 9. The proofed frozen dough of claim 1, wherein the proofed frozen dough has a volume, and wherein the gas bubbles make up about 30 to about 90% of the volume of the frozen dough. 10. The proofed frozen dough of claim 1, wherein the proofed frozen dough has a density of about 0.2 to about 0.5 g/cm3. 11. The proofed frozen dough of claim 1, wherein the gas bubbles comprise gas produced by the spent yeast component during proofing. 12. The proofed frozen dough of claim 1, wherein the frozen dough is in its final shape and form for baking. 13. A method for making a frozen dough product, the method comprising:
(a) mixing dough ingredients to produce a dough composition, the dough ingredients comprising:
i. water;
ii. flour;
iii. a first yeast; and
iv. a second yeast;
(b) proofing the dough, wherein during proofing the first yeast is spent and the second yeast is preserved; and (c) freezing the dough after proofing. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein at least 60% of the first yeast is spent during proofing. 15. The method of claim 13, wherein at least 50% of the second yeast is preserved during proofing. 16. The method of claim 13, wherein the dough ingredients comprise about 1 to about 7% of the first yeast. 17. The method of claim 13, wherein the dough ingredients comprise about 0.1 to about 2% of the second yeast. 18. The method of claim 13, wherein the second yeast is different from the first yeast. 19. The method of claim 13, wherein the second yeast comprises encapsulated yeast, fat coated yeast, non-hydrated active dry yeast, non-hydrated instant yeast, non-hydrated semi-dry yeast, non-hydrated frozen yeast, or a combination thereof 20. The method of claim 13, wherein the mixing comprises mixing the water, flour, and first yeast for a first period of time, adding the second yeast and mixing the dough ingredients for a second period of time, wherein the first period of time is longer than the second period of time. 21. The method of claim 20, wherein the second period of time is from about 1 to about 2 minutes. 22. The method of claim 13 further comprising:
shaping and cutting the dough to produce a pizza crust prior to proofing;
freezing the pizza crust; and
applying toppings to the frozen pizza crust. 23. The method of claim 13 further comprising refrigerating the dough after freezing. 24. The method of claim 23, wherein the dough is refrigerated for from about 12 hours to about 7 days. 25. A method for making a leavened bakery product, the method comprising:
(a) mixing dough ingredients to produce a dough, the dough ingredients comprising:
i. water;
ii. flour;
iii. a first yeast; and
iv. a second yeast;
(b) proofing the dough to produce a proofed dough, wherein the first yeast is spent during the proofing and the second yeast is preserved during the proofing; (c) freezing the proofed dough; and (d) baking the dough to produce the leavened bakery product. 26. The method of claim 25, wherein the second yeast is different from the first yeast. 27. The method of claim 25, wherein the second yeast comprises encapsulated yeast, fat coated yeast, non-hydrated active dry yeast, non-hydrated instant yeast, non-hydrated semi-dry yeast, non-hydrated frozen yeast, or a combination thereof 28. The method of claim 25, wherein the dough does not comprise chemical leaveners. 29. The method of claim 25, wherein the dough has a first volume before the proofing step, a second volume after the proofing step, and a third volume after the baking step, and wherein the third volume is at least 50% greater than the second volume. 30. The method of claim 29, wherein the third volume is greater than the second volume due at least in part to an activity of the second yeast during the baking step. 31. The method of claim 25, wherein the dough ingredients comprise about 20 to about 40% water and about 50 to about 70% flour. 32. The method of claim 25, wherein the dough ingredients comprise about 1 to about 7% of the first yeast. 33. The method of claim 25, wherein the dough ingredients comprise about 0.1 to about 2% of the second yeast. | 1,700 |
4,004 | 15,028,249 | 1,718 | The present invention provides a process for the manufacture of a pre-painted sheet. The process includes supplying a steel substrate, depositing a metallic coating on at least one face by hot-dipping of the substrate in a bath including 4.4% to 5.6% by weight aluminum and 0.3% to 0.56% by weight magnesium. The rest of the bath includes exclusively zinc, unavoidable impurities resulting from the process and optionally one or more additional elements including Si, Ti, Ca, Mn, La, Ce and Bi. The content by weight of each additional element in the metallic coating is less than 0.3% and the presence of nickel is excluded. The process further includes solidifying the metallic coating, surface preparation of the metallic coating and painting of the metallic coating. The present invention further provides a pre-painted sheet. | 1-16. (canceled) 17. A process for the manufacture of a pre-painted sheet comprising the steps of:
supplying a steel substrate; depositing a metallic coating on at least one face by hot-dipping the substrate in a bath including 4.4% to 5.6% by weight aluminum and 0.3% to 0.56% by weight magnesium, a remainder of the bath including zinc and unavoidable impurities resulting from the process, the presence of nickel being excluded; solidifying the metallic coating; surface preparation of the metallic coating; and painting the metallic coating. 18. The manufacturing process according to claim 17, wherein the bath comprises from 4.75 to 5.25% by weight aluminum. 19. The manufacturing process according claim 17, wherein the bath comprises from 0.44 to 0.56% by weight magnesium. 20. The manufacturing process according claim 17, wherein the bath further includes at least one additional element selected from the group consisting of Si, Ti, Ca, Mn, La, Ce and Bi, the content by weight of each additional element in the metallic coating being less than 0.3%. 21. The manufacturing process according to claim 17, wherein the bath consists of aluminum, magnesium, zinc and unavoidable impurities. 22. The manufacturing process according to claim 17, wherein the bath is at a temperature from 370° C. to 470° C. 23. The manufacturing process according to claim 17, wherein the solidification of the metallic coating takes place at a cooling rate greater than or equal to 15° C./s between the beginning of solidification and the end of solidification of the metallic coating. 24. The manufacturing process according to claim 23, wherein the cooling rate is between 15 and 35° C./s. 25. The manufacturing process according to claim 17, wherein the surface preparation comprises a step selected from among rinsing, degreasing and a conversion treatment. 26. The manufacturing process according to claim 25, wherein the degreasing is performed at a pH between 12 and 13. 27. The manufacturing process according to claim 25 wherein the conversion treatment is based on hexafluorotitanic acid. 28. The manufacturing method according to claim 17, wherein the step of painting the metallic coating includes a paint comprising at least one polymer selected from the group consisting of melamine cross-linked polyesters, isocyanate cross-linked polyesters, polyurethanes and halogenated derivatives of vinyl polymers, with the exclusion of cataphoretic paints. 29. A pre-painted sheet comprising:
a steel substrate having at least one face; a metallic coating coating the at least one face; the metallic coating including:
4.4% to 5.6% by weight aluminum,
0.3% to 0.56% by weight magnesium, and
a remainder of the metallic coating including zinc and unavoidable impurities resulting from the process, the presence of nickel in the metallic coating being excluded,
at least one paint film covering the metallic coating. 30. The pre-painted sheet according to claim 29, wherein the metallic coating further includes at least one additional element selected from the group consisting of Si, Ti, Ca, Mn, La, Ce and Bi, the content by weight of each additional element in the metallic coating being less than 0.3%. 31. The pre-painted sheet according to claim 29, wherein the metal coating comprises from 4.75 to 5.25% by weight aluminum. 32. The pre-painted sheet according to claim 29, wherein the metal coating comprises from 0.44 to 0.56% by weight magnesium. 33. The pre-painted sheet according to claim 29, wherein the metallic coating consists of aluminum, magnesium, zinc and unavoidable impurities. 34. The pre-painted sheet according to claim 29, wherein the at least one paint film comprises at least one polymer selected from the group consisting of melamine cross-linked polyesters, isocyanate cross-linked polyesters, polyurethanes and halogenated derivatives of vinyl polymers, with the exclusion of cataphoretic paints. 35. The pre-painted sheet according to claim 29, further comprising a conversion layer comprising titanium at an interface between the metallic coating and the paint film. | The present invention provides a process for the manufacture of a pre-painted sheet. The process includes supplying a steel substrate, depositing a metallic coating on at least one face by hot-dipping of the substrate in a bath including 4.4% to 5.6% by weight aluminum and 0.3% to 0.56% by weight magnesium. The rest of the bath includes exclusively zinc, unavoidable impurities resulting from the process and optionally one or more additional elements including Si, Ti, Ca, Mn, La, Ce and Bi. The content by weight of each additional element in the metallic coating is less than 0.3% and the presence of nickel is excluded. The process further includes solidifying the metallic coating, surface preparation of the metallic coating and painting of the metallic coating. The present invention further provides a pre-painted sheet.1-16. (canceled) 17. A process for the manufacture of a pre-painted sheet comprising the steps of:
supplying a steel substrate; depositing a metallic coating on at least one face by hot-dipping the substrate in a bath including 4.4% to 5.6% by weight aluminum and 0.3% to 0.56% by weight magnesium, a remainder of the bath including zinc and unavoidable impurities resulting from the process, the presence of nickel being excluded; solidifying the metallic coating; surface preparation of the metallic coating; and painting the metallic coating. 18. The manufacturing process according to claim 17, wherein the bath comprises from 4.75 to 5.25% by weight aluminum. 19. The manufacturing process according claim 17, wherein the bath comprises from 0.44 to 0.56% by weight magnesium. 20. The manufacturing process according claim 17, wherein the bath further includes at least one additional element selected from the group consisting of Si, Ti, Ca, Mn, La, Ce and Bi, the content by weight of each additional element in the metallic coating being less than 0.3%. 21. The manufacturing process according to claim 17, wherein the bath consists of aluminum, magnesium, zinc and unavoidable impurities. 22. The manufacturing process according to claim 17, wherein the bath is at a temperature from 370° C. to 470° C. 23. The manufacturing process according to claim 17, wherein the solidification of the metallic coating takes place at a cooling rate greater than or equal to 15° C./s between the beginning of solidification and the end of solidification of the metallic coating. 24. The manufacturing process according to claim 23, wherein the cooling rate is between 15 and 35° C./s. 25. The manufacturing process according to claim 17, wherein the surface preparation comprises a step selected from among rinsing, degreasing and a conversion treatment. 26. The manufacturing process according to claim 25, wherein the degreasing is performed at a pH between 12 and 13. 27. The manufacturing process according to claim 25 wherein the conversion treatment is based on hexafluorotitanic acid. 28. The manufacturing method according to claim 17, wherein the step of painting the metallic coating includes a paint comprising at least one polymer selected from the group consisting of melamine cross-linked polyesters, isocyanate cross-linked polyesters, polyurethanes and halogenated derivatives of vinyl polymers, with the exclusion of cataphoretic paints. 29. A pre-painted sheet comprising:
a steel substrate having at least one face; a metallic coating coating the at least one face; the metallic coating including:
4.4% to 5.6% by weight aluminum,
0.3% to 0.56% by weight magnesium, and
a remainder of the metallic coating including zinc and unavoidable impurities resulting from the process, the presence of nickel in the metallic coating being excluded,
at least one paint film covering the metallic coating. 30. The pre-painted sheet according to claim 29, wherein the metallic coating further includes at least one additional element selected from the group consisting of Si, Ti, Ca, Mn, La, Ce and Bi, the content by weight of each additional element in the metallic coating being less than 0.3%. 31. The pre-painted sheet according to claim 29, wherein the metal coating comprises from 4.75 to 5.25% by weight aluminum. 32. The pre-painted sheet according to claim 29, wherein the metal coating comprises from 0.44 to 0.56% by weight magnesium. 33. The pre-painted sheet according to claim 29, wherein the metallic coating consists of aluminum, magnesium, zinc and unavoidable impurities. 34. The pre-painted sheet according to claim 29, wherein the at least one paint film comprises at least one polymer selected from the group consisting of melamine cross-linked polyesters, isocyanate cross-linked polyesters, polyurethanes and halogenated derivatives of vinyl polymers, with the exclusion of cataphoretic paints. 35. The pre-painted sheet according to claim 29, further comprising a conversion layer comprising titanium at an interface between the metallic coating and the paint film. | 1,700 |
4,005 | 14,240,834 | 1,791 | The present invention addresses enhancing a taste of common processed food and drink without imparting a foreign taste and without increasing calories or sodium content. In such a case, a substance added to the common processed food and drink is preferably a common foodstuff, and preferably has a high degree of safety. A yeast extract having a peptide content of 5 wt % or more, an RNA content of 5 wt % or more, a free amino acid content of 4 wt % or less, and more preferably having a dietary fiber content of 15 wt % or more is added in an appropriate amount to the common processed food and drink. | 1. A yeast extract containing 5 wt % or more of a peptide, 5 wt % or more of RNA, and 4 wt % or less of free amino acids. 2. A yeast extract according to claim 1, wherein the yeast extract contains 15 wt % or more of dietary fiber. 3. A method of enhancing a taste of food, wherein the yeast extract according to claim 1 is added to a food. 4. A yeast extract for enhancing a taste of food, wherein the yeast extract is the yeast extract according to claim 1. 5. An agent enhancing a taste of food, wherein the yeast extract according to claim 1 is an active ingredient. 6. A method of enhancing a taste of food, wherein the yeast extract according to claim 2 is added to a food. 7. A yeast extract for enhancing a taste of food, wherein the yeast extract is the yeast extract according to claim 2. 8. An agent enhancing a taste of food, wherein the yeast extract according to claim 2 is an active ingredient. | The present invention addresses enhancing a taste of common processed food and drink without imparting a foreign taste and without increasing calories or sodium content. In such a case, a substance added to the common processed food and drink is preferably a common foodstuff, and preferably has a high degree of safety. A yeast extract having a peptide content of 5 wt % or more, an RNA content of 5 wt % or more, a free amino acid content of 4 wt % or less, and more preferably having a dietary fiber content of 15 wt % or more is added in an appropriate amount to the common processed food and drink.1. A yeast extract containing 5 wt % or more of a peptide, 5 wt % or more of RNA, and 4 wt % or less of free amino acids. 2. A yeast extract according to claim 1, wherein the yeast extract contains 15 wt % or more of dietary fiber. 3. A method of enhancing a taste of food, wherein the yeast extract according to claim 1 is added to a food. 4. A yeast extract for enhancing a taste of food, wherein the yeast extract is the yeast extract according to claim 1. 5. An agent enhancing a taste of food, wherein the yeast extract according to claim 1 is an active ingredient. 6. A method of enhancing a taste of food, wherein the yeast extract according to claim 2 is added to a food. 7. A yeast extract for enhancing a taste of food, wherein the yeast extract is the yeast extract according to claim 2. 8. An agent enhancing a taste of food, wherein the yeast extract according to claim 2 is an active ingredient. | 1,700 |
4,006 | 15,178,939 | 1,721 | A solar cell, which comprises a substrate, a sub grid electrode and a main grid electrode directly contacting the substrate, wherein the main grid electrode and the sub grid electrode comprise silver particles, and wherein a particle size of the silver particles comprised in the main grid electrode is smaller than a particle size of the silver particles comprised in the sub grid electrode, is provided. | 1. A solar cell comprising:
a substrate; a sub grid electrode and a main grid electrode directly contacting the substrate; wherein the main grid electrode and the sub grid electrode comprise silver particles, and wherein a particle size of the silver particles comprised in the main grid electrode is smaller than a particle size of the silver particles comprised in the sub grid electrode. 2. The solar cell of claim 1, wherein an average thickness in a center portion of the main grid electrode is thinner than an average thickness in a center portion of the sub grid electrode. 3. The solar cell of claim 2, wherein the average thickness in the center portion of the main grid electrode is thicker than 4.8 μm. 4. The solar cell of claim 1, wherein the silver particles comprised in the main grid electrode exist among the silver particles comprised in the sub grid electrode at joining parts of the main grid electrode and the sub grid electrode. 5. The solar cell of claim 1, wherein the sub grid electrode is divided by the main grid electrode. 6. The solar cell of claim 1, wherein a glass frit content in a silver paste used to form the main grid electrode is higher than a glass frit content in a silver paste used to form the sub grid electrode. 7. The solar cell of claim 1, wherein a ratio of a glass frit content to a silver content in a silver paste used to form the main grid electrode is higher than a ratio of a glass frit content to a silver content in a silver paste used to form the sub grid electrode. 8. The solar cell of claim 1, wherein a softening point of glass frit in a silver paste used to form the main grid electrode is lower than a softening point of a glass frit in a silver paste used to form the sub grid electrode. 9. The solar cell of claim 1, wherein a Brunaure Emmett Teller (BET) value of silver in a silver paste used to form the main grid electrode is larger than a BET value of silver in a silver paste used to form the sub grid electrode. 10. A device comprising:
at least two solar cells of claim 1; an electrode on a back surface of the substrate opposite to the surface directly contacting with the main electrode; and an interconnector connecting the main grid electrode on the surface of one solar cell and the electrode on the back surface of another solar cell. 11. A method for producing a solar cell comprising:
forming a main grid electrode and a sub grid electrode directly on a surface of a substrate; wherein a particular size of the silver particles comprised in the main grid electrode is smaller than a particle size of the silver particles comprised in the sub grid electrode. 12. The method of claim 11, wherein the solar cell comprises an anti-reflection film on the surface of the substrate. 13. The method of claim 11, wherein the step of forming the main grid electrode and the sub grid electrode directly on the surface of the substrate comprises penetrating the silver particles through the anti-reflection film. 14. The method of claim 11, further comprising forming a thickness of the main grid electrode to be thinner than a thickness of the sub grid electrode. 15. The method of claim 11, further comprising forming the sub grid electrode using a silver paste having a glass frit content which is higher than a glass frit content in a silver paste used to form the sub grid electrode. 16. The method of claim 11, further comprising forming the main grid electrode using a silver paste having a ratio of a glass frit content to a silver content which is higher than a ratio of a glass frit content to a silver content in the silver paste used to form the sub grid electrode. 17. The method of claim 11, further comprising forming the main grid electrode using a silver paste comprising a glass frit having a softening point which is lower than a softening point of a glass frit in a silver paste used to form the sub grid electrode. 18. The method of claim 11, further comprising forming the main grid electrode using a silver paste having a Brunaure Emmett Teller (BET) value which is larger than a BET value of a silver paste used to form the sub grid electrode. | A solar cell, which comprises a substrate, a sub grid electrode and a main grid electrode directly contacting the substrate, wherein the main grid electrode and the sub grid electrode comprise silver particles, and wherein a particle size of the silver particles comprised in the main grid electrode is smaller than a particle size of the silver particles comprised in the sub grid electrode, is provided.1. A solar cell comprising:
a substrate; a sub grid electrode and a main grid electrode directly contacting the substrate; wherein the main grid electrode and the sub grid electrode comprise silver particles, and wherein a particle size of the silver particles comprised in the main grid electrode is smaller than a particle size of the silver particles comprised in the sub grid electrode. 2. The solar cell of claim 1, wherein an average thickness in a center portion of the main grid electrode is thinner than an average thickness in a center portion of the sub grid electrode. 3. The solar cell of claim 2, wherein the average thickness in the center portion of the main grid electrode is thicker than 4.8 μm. 4. The solar cell of claim 1, wherein the silver particles comprised in the main grid electrode exist among the silver particles comprised in the sub grid electrode at joining parts of the main grid electrode and the sub grid electrode. 5. The solar cell of claim 1, wherein the sub grid electrode is divided by the main grid electrode. 6. The solar cell of claim 1, wherein a glass frit content in a silver paste used to form the main grid electrode is higher than a glass frit content in a silver paste used to form the sub grid electrode. 7. The solar cell of claim 1, wherein a ratio of a glass frit content to a silver content in a silver paste used to form the main grid electrode is higher than a ratio of a glass frit content to a silver content in a silver paste used to form the sub grid electrode. 8. The solar cell of claim 1, wherein a softening point of glass frit in a silver paste used to form the main grid electrode is lower than a softening point of a glass frit in a silver paste used to form the sub grid electrode. 9. The solar cell of claim 1, wherein a Brunaure Emmett Teller (BET) value of silver in a silver paste used to form the main grid electrode is larger than a BET value of silver in a silver paste used to form the sub grid electrode. 10. A device comprising:
at least two solar cells of claim 1; an electrode on a back surface of the substrate opposite to the surface directly contacting with the main electrode; and an interconnector connecting the main grid electrode on the surface of one solar cell and the electrode on the back surface of another solar cell. 11. A method for producing a solar cell comprising:
forming a main grid electrode and a sub grid electrode directly on a surface of a substrate; wherein a particular size of the silver particles comprised in the main grid electrode is smaller than a particle size of the silver particles comprised in the sub grid electrode. 12. The method of claim 11, wherein the solar cell comprises an anti-reflection film on the surface of the substrate. 13. The method of claim 11, wherein the step of forming the main grid electrode and the sub grid electrode directly on the surface of the substrate comprises penetrating the silver particles through the anti-reflection film. 14. The method of claim 11, further comprising forming a thickness of the main grid electrode to be thinner than a thickness of the sub grid electrode. 15. The method of claim 11, further comprising forming the sub grid electrode using a silver paste having a glass frit content which is higher than a glass frit content in a silver paste used to form the sub grid electrode. 16. The method of claim 11, further comprising forming the main grid electrode using a silver paste having a ratio of a glass frit content to a silver content which is higher than a ratio of a glass frit content to a silver content in the silver paste used to form the sub grid electrode. 17. The method of claim 11, further comprising forming the main grid electrode using a silver paste comprising a glass frit having a softening point which is lower than a softening point of a glass frit in a silver paste used to form the sub grid electrode. 18. The method of claim 11, further comprising forming the main grid electrode using a silver paste having a Brunaure Emmett Teller (BET) value which is larger than a BET value of a silver paste used to form the sub grid electrode. | 1,700 |
4,007 | 15,410,460 | 1,735 | A method of brazing includes placing a non-foam matrix in a gap and applying a molten braze material to the gap such that the molten braze material flows into the gap and through the non-foam matrix by capillary action to fill the gap and cools to form a solid braze in the gap. A brazed article includes at least one component defining a gap, a non-foam matrix in the gap and a solid braze interspersed through the non-foam matrix. The non-foam matrix and the solid braze fill the gap. | 1. A method of brazing comprising:
placing a non-foam matrix in a gap; and applying a molten braze material to the gap such that the molten braze material flows into the gap and through the non-foam matrix by capillary action to fill the gap and cools to form a solid braze in the gap. 2. The method of claim 1 further comprising machining the gap to a predetermined geometry prior to placing the non-foam matrix in the gap. 3. The method of claim 1 further comprising heating a braze composition to a braze temperature to form the molten braze material. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the gap is an open joint formed between a first component and a second component. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the non-foam matrix provides a capillary field for the molten braze material flowing into the gap. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the non-foam matrix is a fiber matrix of interwoven metallic fibers. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the non-foam matrix has a mesh size in the range of about 15 μm to about 100 μm (about 0.6 mil to about 3.9 mil). 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the gap has a width in the range of about 0.64 mm to about 4.1 mm (about 25 mil to about 160 mil). 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the gap has a gap size such that the molten braze material does not flow by capillary action throughout the gap without the non-foam matrix being present in the gap. 10. The method of brazing of claim 1, wherein the non-foam matrix comprises a material selected from the group consisting of a cobalt-based superalloy, a nickel-based superalloy, and an iron-based superalloy. 11. The method of claim 1, wherein the gap is located at a hot gas path surface of a turbine component. 12. The method of claim 1, wherein the non-foam matrix promotes super-capillary conduction of the molten braze material across a width of the gap. 13. A brazed article comprising:
at least one component defining a gap; a non-foam matrix in the gap; and a solid braze interspersed through the non-foam matrix, wherein the non-foam matrix and the solid braze fill the gap. 14. (canceled) 15. (canceled) 16. (canceled) 17. (canceled) 18. (canceled) 19. (canceled) 20. (canceled) 21. The method of claim 1, wherein the solid braze formed in the gap with the non-foam matrix is substantially free of voids and is substantially free of a eutectic phase. 22. The method of claim 1, wherein the gap is formed within a single component. 23. The method of claim 1, wherein the applying occurs without pre-placed or pre-packed braze powder in the braze gap. 24. The method of claim 1, wherein the solid braze in the gap has a porosity less than 3%. 25. The method of claim 1, wherein the non-foam matrix is a ceramic matrix. 26. The method of claim 1 further comprising forming the gap between a first portion and a second portion. 27. The method of claim 26, wherein the forming comprises tack welding the first portion to the second portion. | A method of brazing includes placing a non-foam matrix in a gap and applying a molten braze material to the gap such that the molten braze material flows into the gap and through the non-foam matrix by capillary action to fill the gap and cools to form a solid braze in the gap. A brazed article includes at least one component defining a gap, a non-foam matrix in the gap and a solid braze interspersed through the non-foam matrix. The non-foam matrix and the solid braze fill the gap.1. A method of brazing comprising:
placing a non-foam matrix in a gap; and applying a molten braze material to the gap such that the molten braze material flows into the gap and through the non-foam matrix by capillary action to fill the gap and cools to form a solid braze in the gap. 2. The method of claim 1 further comprising machining the gap to a predetermined geometry prior to placing the non-foam matrix in the gap. 3. The method of claim 1 further comprising heating a braze composition to a braze temperature to form the molten braze material. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the gap is an open joint formed between a first component and a second component. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the non-foam matrix provides a capillary field for the molten braze material flowing into the gap. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the non-foam matrix is a fiber matrix of interwoven metallic fibers. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the non-foam matrix has a mesh size in the range of about 15 μm to about 100 μm (about 0.6 mil to about 3.9 mil). 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the gap has a width in the range of about 0.64 mm to about 4.1 mm (about 25 mil to about 160 mil). 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the gap has a gap size such that the molten braze material does not flow by capillary action throughout the gap without the non-foam matrix being present in the gap. 10. The method of brazing of claim 1, wherein the non-foam matrix comprises a material selected from the group consisting of a cobalt-based superalloy, a nickel-based superalloy, and an iron-based superalloy. 11. The method of claim 1, wherein the gap is located at a hot gas path surface of a turbine component. 12. The method of claim 1, wherein the non-foam matrix promotes super-capillary conduction of the molten braze material across a width of the gap. 13. A brazed article comprising:
at least one component defining a gap; a non-foam matrix in the gap; and a solid braze interspersed through the non-foam matrix, wherein the non-foam matrix and the solid braze fill the gap. 14. (canceled) 15. (canceled) 16. (canceled) 17. (canceled) 18. (canceled) 19. (canceled) 20. (canceled) 21. The method of claim 1, wherein the solid braze formed in the gap with the non-foam matrix is substantially free of voids and is substantially free of a eutectic phase. 22. The method of claim 1, wherein the gap is formed within a single component. 23. The method of claim 1, wherein the applying occurs without pre-placed or pre-packed braze powder in the braze gap. 24. The method of claim 1, wherein the solid braze in the gap has a porosity less than 3%. 25. The method of claim 1, wherein the non-foam matrix is a ceramic matrix. 26. The method of claim 1 further comprising forming the gap between a first portion and a second portion. 27. The method of claim 26, wherein the forming comprises tack welding the first portion to the second portion. | 1,700 |
4,008 | 15,219,963 | 1,712 | A method of imparting electrical conductivity on an interlayer material is disclosed. In one non-limiting example the method includes forming the interlayer material from at least one layer of fabric of thermoplastic fibers. The method further includes, treating the surface of the interlayer material using an atmospheric-pressure plasma such that the surface of the interlayer material undergoes a surface activation. Additionally, the method includes depositing a layer of conductive material on the surface of the interlayer material such that the conductive material increases a conductivity of the interlayer material. | 1. A method of imparting electrical conductivity on an interlayer material, the method comprising:
forming the interlayer material from at least one layer of a fabric of thermoplastic fibers; treating a surface of the interlayer material using an atmospheric-pressure plasma such that the surface of the interlayer undergoes a surface activation; and depositing a layer of conductive material on the surface of the interlayer material such that the layer of conductive material increases a conductivity of the interlayer material. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the surface of the interlayer material includes a first side and an opposing second side, wherein the first side and the second side both undergo the surface activation. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the surface activation includes treating the interlayer material with an atmospheric-pressure oxygen plasma such that an increased oxygen content is produced on the surface of the interlayer material. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the layer of conductive material is a metal layer that is deposited on the surface of the interlayer material. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the metal layer comprises a plurality of metal layers being deposited on the surface of the interlayer material. 6. The method of claim 4, wherein a chemical vapor deposition deposits the metal layer on the surface of the interlayer material, wherein the chemical vapor deposition is performed at a temperature below a melting point of the interlayer material. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the at least one layer of fabric of thermoplastic fibers comprises at least two different types of thermoplastic fibers. 8. A method of manufacturing a composite material incorporating an interlayer having electrical conductivity, the method comprising:
forming a plurality of interlayers from an interlayer material and treating each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers using an atmospheric-pressure plasma such that a surface of each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers undergoes a surface activation; depositing a conductive layer on the surface of each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers such that the conductive layer increases a conductivity of the plurality of interlayers; forming a plurality of reinforcing layers from fibers of a reinforcing material; disposing the plurality of interlayers each having the conductive layer on the surface alternately between the plurality of reinforcing layers; coupling the plurality of reinforcing layers and the plurality of interlayers together; and infusing the plurality of reinforcing layers and the plurality of interlayers with a matrix material, and curing the matrix material such that conductivity of the plurality of interlayers improves an electrical conductivity of the composite material. 9. The method of claim 8, wherein the surface of each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers includes a first side and an opposing second side, wherein the first side and the second side both undergo the surface activation. 10. The method of claim 8, wherein the surface activation includes treating each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers with an atmospheric-pressure oxygen plasma such that an increased oxygen content is produced on the surface of each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers. 11. The method of claim 8, wherein the conductive layer is a metal layer which is deposited on the surface of each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers. 12. The method of claim 11, wherein the metal layer comprises a plurality of metal layers being deposited on the surface of each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers. 13. The method of claim 11, wherein a chemical vapor deposition deposits the metal layer on the surface of each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers, wherein the chemical vapor deposition is performed at a temperature below a melting point of each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers. 14. The method of claim 8, wherein each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers comprises a layer of non-woven fabric of thermoplastic fibers having at least two different types of thermoplastic fibers. 15. A composite material having electrical conductivity, the composite material comprising:
a plurality of interlayers each formed from a layer of fabric of thermoplastic fibers; a surface of each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers being treated using an atmospheric-pressure plasma such that the surface of each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers undergoes a surface activation; a conductive layer being deposited on the surface of each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers such that the conductive layer increases a conductivity of each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers; a plurality of reinforcing layers being formed from fibers of reinforcing material, wherein each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers having the conductive layer on the surface is alternately disposed between the plurality of reinforcing layers, wherein the plurality of reinforcing layers are coupled together with the plurality of interlayers; and a matrix material being infused into the plurality of reinforcing layers and the plurality of interlayers, wherein the matrix material is cured such that the conductivity each layer of the plurality of interlayers improves an electrical conductivity of the composite material. 16. The composite material of claim 15, wherein the plurality of interlayers include a first side and an opposing second side, wherein the first side and the second side both undergo the surface activation. 17. The composite material of claim 15, wherein the surface activation includes treating each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers with an atmospheric-pressure oxygen plasma such that an increased oxygen content is produced on the surface of each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers. 18. The composite material of claim 15, wherein the conductive layer comprises at least one metal layer being deposited on the surface of each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers. 19. The composite material of claim 18, wherein a chemical vapor deposition deposits the at least one metal layer on the surface of each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers, wherein the chemical vapor deposition is performed at a temperature below a melting point of each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers. 20. The composite material of claim 15, wherein each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers comprises a layer of non-woven fabric of thermoplastic fibers having at least two different types of thermoplastic fibers. | A method of imparting electrical conductivity on an interlayer material is disclosed. In one non-limiting example the method includes forming the interlayer material from at least one layer of fabric of thermoplastic fibers. The method further includes, treating the surface of the interlayer material using an atmospheric-pressure plasma such that the surface of the interlayer material undergoes a surface activation. Additionally, the method includes depositing a layer of conductive material on the surface of the interlayer material such that the conductive material increases a conductivity of the interlayer material.1. A method of imparting electrical conductivity on an interlayer material, the method comprising:
forming the interlayer material from at least one layer of a fabric of thermoplastic fibers; treating a surface of the interlayer material using an atmospheric-pressure plasma such that the surface of the interlayer undergoes a surface activation; and depositing a layer of conductive material on the surface of the interlayer material such that the layer of conductive material increases a conductivity of the interlayer material. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the surface of the interlayer material includes a first side and an opposing second side, wherein the first side and the second side both undergo the surface activation. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the surface activation includes treating the interlayer material with an atmospheric-pressure oxygen plasma such that an increased oxygen content is produced on the surface of the interlayer material. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the layer of conductive material is a metal layer that is deposited on the surface of the interlayer material. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the metal layer comprises a plurality of metal layers being deposited on the surface of the interlayer material. 6. The method of claim 4, wherein a chemical vapor deposition deposits the metal layer on the surface of the interlayer material, wherein the chemical vapor deposition is performed at a temperature below a melting point of the interlayer material. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the at least one layer of fabric of thermoplastic fibers comprises at least two different types of thermoplastic fibers. 8. A method of manufacturing a composite material incorporating an interlayer having electrical conductivity, the method comprising:
forming a plurality of interlayers from an interlayer material and treating each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers using an atmospheric-pressure plasma such that a surface of each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers undergoes a surface activation; depositing a conductive layer on the surface of each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers such that the conductive layer increases a conductivity of the plurality of interlayers; forming a plurality of reinforcing layers from fibers of a reinforcing material; disposing the plurality of interlayers each having the conductive layer on the surface alternately between the plurality of reinforcing layers; coupling the plurality of reinforcing layers and the plurality of interlayers together; and infusing the plurality of reinforcing layers and the plurality of interlayers with a matrix material, and curing the matrix material such that conductivity of the plurality of interlayers improves an electrical conductivity of the composite material. 9. The method of claim 8, wherein the surface of each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers includes a first side and an opposing second side, wherein the first side and the second side both undergo the surface activation. 10. The method of claim 8, wherein the surface activation includes treating each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers with an atmospheric-pressure oxygen plasma such that an increased oxygen content is produced on the surface of each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers. 11. The method of claim 8, wherein the conductive layer is a metal layer which is deposited on the surface of each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers. 12. The method of claim 11, wherein the metal layer comprises a plurality of metal layers being deposited on the surface of each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers. 13. The method of claim 11, wherein a chemical vapor deposition deposits the metal layer on the surface of each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers, wherein the chemical vapor deposition is performed at a temperature below a melting point of each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers. 14. The method of claim 8, wherein each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers comprises a layer of non-woven fabric of thermoplastic fibers having at least two different types of thermoplastic fibers. 15. A composite material having electrical conductivity, the composite material comprising:
a plurality of interlayers each formed from a layer of fabric of thermoplastic fibers; a surface of each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers being treated using an atmospheric-pressure plasma such that the surface of each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers undergoes a surface activation; a conductive layer being deposited on the surface of each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers such that the conductive layer increases a conductivity of each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers; a plurality of reinforcing layers being formed from fibers of reinforcing material, wherein each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers having the conductive layer on the surface is alternately disposed between the plurality of reinforcing layers, wherein the plurality of reinforcing layers are coupled together with the plurality of interlayers; and a matrix material being infused into the plurality of reinforcing layers and the plurality of interlayers, wherein the matrix material is cured such that the conductivity each layer of the plurality of interlayers improves an electrical conductivity of the composite material. 16. The composite material of claim 15, wherein the plurality of interlayers include a first side and an opposing second side, wherein the first side and the second side both undergo the surface activation. 17. The composite material of claim 15, wherein the surface activation includes treating each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers with an atmospheric-pressure oxygen plasma such that an increased oxygen content is produced on the surface of each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers. 18. The composite material of claim 15, wherein the conductive layer comprises at least one metal layer being deposited on the surface of each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers. 19. The composite material of claim 18, wherein a chemical vapor deposition deposits the at least one metal layer on the surface of each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers, wherein the chemical vapor deposition is performed at a temperature below a melting point of each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers. 20. The composite material of claim 15, wherein each interlayer of the plurality of interlayers comprises a layer of non-woven fabric of thermoplastic fibers having at least two different types of thermoplastic fibers. | 1,700 |
4,009 | 14,626,050 | 1,797 | A colorimetric analyzer includes a reaction chamber configured to receive a sample and at least one reagent. A measurement cell is operably coupled to the reaction chamber. The measurement cell has an illumination source and an illumination detector spaced from the illumination source such that illumination from the illumination source passes through the reacted sample to the illumination detector. A controller is coupled to the illumination source and the illumination detector. The controller is configured to generate an analytic output based on a signal from the illumination detector. A fill conduit is operably interposed between the reaction chamber and the measurement cell. The fill conduit is configured to reduce bubbles. | 1. A colorimetric analyzer comprising:
a reaction chamber configured to receive a sample and at least one reagent; a measurement cell operably coupled to the reaction chamber, the measurement cell having an illumination source and an illumination detector spaced from the illumination source such that illumination from the illumination source passes through the reacted sample to the illumination detector; a controller coupled to the illumination source and the illumination detector, the controller being configured to generate an analytic output based on a signal from the illumination detector; and a fill conduit operably interposed between the reaction chamber and the measurement cell, the fill conduit being configured to reduce bubbles. 2. The colorimetric analyzer of claim 1, wherein the fill conduit has a hydrophobic inner surface. 3. The colorimetric analyzer of claim 2, wherein the hydrophobic inner surface is formed of a polymer. 4. The colorimetric analyzer of claim 3, wherein the polymer is Poly(methyl methacrylate). 5. The colorimetric analyzer of claim 1, wherein the fill conduit is disposed at a non-zero angle that is less than 90 degrees with respect to gravity. 6. The colorimetric analyzer of claim 1, wherein the fill conduit is formed entirely of a hydrophobic material. 7. The colorimetric analyzer of claim 6, wherein the fill conduit is formed entirely of Poly(methyl methacrylate). 8. The colorimetric analyzer of claim 1, and further comprising a peristaltic pump disposed between the reaction chamber and the fill conduit, wherein the peristaltic pump is configured to convey reacted sample into a sample inlet of the fill conduit. 9. The colorimetric analyzer of claim 1, wherein the colorimetric analyzer is a silica analyzer. 10. A method of operating a colorimetric analyzer, the method comprising:
receiving a sample; conveying the sample and at least one reagent to a reaction chamber; de-bubbling the reacted sample; conveying the de-bubbled, reacted sample to a measurement cell; detecting illumination passing through the de-bubbled, reacted sample; and providing an analytic output based on the detected illumination. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein de-bubbling the reacted sample includes causing the reacted sample to contact a hydrophobic surface. 12. The method of claim 11, wherein the contact is caused by the reacted sample flowing along a tilted fill conduit. 13. The method of claim 11, wherein the hydrophobic surface is a polymeric hydrophobic surface. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the polymer is Poly(methyl methacrylate). 15. The method of claim 10, and further comprising directing illumination from an illumination source through the reacted sample. | A colorimetric analyzer includes a reaction chamber configured to receive a sample and at least one reagent. A measurement cell is operably coupled to the reaction chamber. The measurement cell has an illumination source and an illumination detector spaced from the illumination source such that illumination from the illumination source passes through the reacted sample to the illumination detector. A controller is coupled to the illumination source and the illumination detector. The controller is configured to generate an analytic output based on a signal from the illumination detector. A fill conduit is operably interposed between the reaction chamber and the measurement cell. The fill conduit is configured to reduce bubbles.1. A colorimetric analyzer comprising:
a reaction chamber configured to receive a sample and at least one reagent; a measurement cell operably coupled to the reaction chamber, the measurement cell having an illumination source and an illumination detector spaced from the illumination source such that illumination from the illumination source passes through the reacted sample to the illumination detector; a controller coupled to the illumination source and the illumination detector, the controller being configured to generate an analytic output based on a signal from the illumination detector; and a fill conduit operably interposed between the reaction chamber and the measurement cell, the fill conduit being configured to reduce bubbles. 2. The colorimetric analyzer of claim 1, wherein the fill conduit has a hydrophobic inner surface. 3. The colorimetric analyzer of claim 2, wherein the hydrophobic inner surface is formed of a polymer. 4. The colorimetric analyzer of claim 3, wherein the polymer is Poly(methyl methacrylate). 5. The colorimetric analyzer of claim 1, wherein the fill conduit is disposed at a non-zero angle that is less than 90 degrees with respect to gravity. 6. The colorimetric analyzer of claim 1, wherein the fill conduit is formed entirely of a hydrophobic material. 7. The colorimetric analyzer of claim 6, wherein the fill conduit is formed entirely of Poly(methyl methacrylate). 8. The colorimetric analyzer of claim 1, and further comprising a peristaltic pump disposed between the reaction chamber and the fill conduit, wherein the peristaltic pump is configured to convey reacted sample into a sample inlet of the fill conduit. 9. The colorimetric analyzer of claim 1, wherein the colorimetric analyzer is a silica analyzer. 10. A method of operating a colorimetric analyzer, the method comprising:
receiving a sample; conveying the sample and at least one reagent to a reaction chamber; de-bubbling the reacted sample; conveying the de-bubbled, reacted sample to a measurement cell; detecting illumination passing through the de-bubbled, reacted sample; and providing an analytic output based on the detected illumination. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein de-bubbling the reacted sample includes causing the reacted sample to contact a hydrophobic surface. 12. The method of claim 11, wherein the contact is caused by the reacted sample flowing along a tilted fill conduit. 13. The method of claim 11, wherein the hydrophobic surface is a polymeric hydrophobic surface. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the polymer is Poly(methyl methacrylate). 15. The method of claim 10, and further comprising directing illumination from an illumination source through the reacted sample. | 1,700 |
4,010 | 14,895,274 | 1,727 | The invention relates to an electrode material for lithium ion batteries, comprising 5-85% by weight of nanoscale silicon particles, which are not aggregated and of which the volume-weighted particle size distribution is between the diameter percentiles d 10 >20 nm and d 90 <2000 nm and has a breadth d 90 -d 10 <1200 nm; 0-40% by weight of an electrically conductive component containing nanoscale structures with expansions of less than 800 um; 0-80% by weight of graphite particles with a volume-weighted particle size distribution between the diameter percentiles d 10 >0.2 μm and d 90 <200 μm; 5-25% by weight of a binding agent; wherein a proportion of graphite particles and electrically conductive components produces in total at least 10% by weight, wherein the proportions of all components produce in total a maximum of 100% by weight. | 1. An electrode material for lithium ion batteries, comprising
5-85% by weight of nanosize silicon particles which have fracture surfaces and a sphericity of 0.3<ψ<0.9 and are not aggregated and whose volume-weighted particle size distribution lies between diameter percentiles d10>20 nm and d90<2000 nm and has a width d90-d10 of <1200 nm; 0-40% by weight of an electrically conductive component comprising nanosize structures having dimensions of less than 800 nm; 0-80% by weight of graphite particles having a volume-weighted particle size distribution between diameter percentiles d10>0.2 μm and d90<200 μm; 5-25% by weight of a binder;
wherein a total proportion of graphite particles and electrically conductive component is at least 10% by weight, where proportions of all components add up to a maximum of 100% by weight. 2. The electrode material as claimed in claim 1, wherein the nanosize silicon particles are doped with foreign atoms. 3. (canceled) 4. The electrode material as claimed in claim 1, wherein the nanosize silicon particles bear covalently bound organic groups on a surface thereof. 5. The electrode material as claimed in claim 1, wherein the electrically conductive component is conductive carbon black containing primary particles which have a volume-weighted particle size distribution between diameter percentiles d10>5 nm and d90<200 nm. 6. The electrode material as claimed in claim 1, wherein the electrically conductive component is carbon nanotubes having a diameter of from 0.4 to 200 nm. 7. The electrode material as claimed in claim 1, wherein the electrically conductive component contains metallic nanoparticles. 8. (canceled) 9. A lithium ion battery comprising a negative electrode composed of an electrode material as claimed in claim 1. 10. (canceled) 11. The electrode material as claimed in claim 2, wherein the nanosize silicon particles bear covalently bound organic groups on a surface thereof. 12. The electrode material as claimed in claim 11, wherein the electrically conductive component is conductive carbon black containing primary particles which have a volume-weighted particle size distribution between diameter percentiles d10>5 nm and d90<200 nm. 13. The electrode material as claimed in claim 12, wherein the electrically conductive component is carbon nanotubes having a diameter of from 0.4 to 200 nm. 14. The electrode material as claimed in claim 13, wherein the electrically conductive component contains metallic nanoparticles. 15. A lithium ion battery comprising a negative electrode composed of an electrode material as claimed in claim 14. | The invention relates to an electrode material for lithium ion batteries, comprising 5-85% by weight of nanoscale silicon particles, which are not aggregated and of which the volume-weighted particle size distribution is between the diameter percentiles d 10 >20 nm and d 90 <2000 nm and has a breadth d 90 -d 10 <1200 nm; 0-40% by weight of an electrically conductive component containing nanoscale structures with expansions of less than 800 um; 0-80% by weight of graphite particles with a volume-weighted particle size distribution between the diameter percentiles d 10 >0.2 μm and d 90 <200 μm; 5-25% by weight of a binding agent; wherein a proportion of graphite particles and electrically conductive components produces in total at least 10% by weight, wherein the proportions of all components produce in total a maximum of 100% by weight.1. An electrode material for lithium ion batteries, comprising
5-85% by weight of nanosize silicon particles which have fracture surfaces and a sphericity of 0.3<ψ<0.9 and are not aggregated and whose volume-weighted particle size distribution lies between diameter percentiles d10>20 nm and d90<2000 nm and has a width d90-d10 of <1200 nm; 0-40% by weight of an electrically conductive component comprising nanosize structures having dimensions of less than 800 nm; 0-80% by weight of graphite particles having a volume-weighted particle size distribution between diameter percentiles d10>0.2 μm and d90<200 μm; 5-25% by weight of a binder;
wherein a total proportion of graphite particles and electrically conductive component is at least 10% by weight, where proportions of all components add up to a maximum of 100% by weight. 2. The electrode material as claimed in claim 1, wherein the nanosize silicon particles are doped with foreign atoms. 3. (canceled) 4. The electrode material as claimed in claim 1, wherein the nanosize silicon particles bear covalently bound organic groups on a surface thereof. 5. The electrode material as claimed in claim 1, wherein the electrically conductive component is conductive carbon black containing primary particles which have a volume-weighted particle size distribution between diameter percentiles d10>5 nm and d90<200 nm. 6. The electrode material as claimed in claim 1, wherein the electrically conductive component is carbon nanotubes having a diameter of from 0.4 to 200 nm. 7. The electrode material as claimed in claim 1, wherein the electrically conductive component contains metallic nanoparticles. 8. (canceled) 9. A lithium ion battery comprising a negative electrode composed of an electrode material as claimed in claim 1. 10. (canceled) 11. The electrode material as claimed in claim 2, wherein the nanosize silicon particles bear covalently bound organic groups on a surface thereof. 12. The electrode material as claimed in claim 11, wherein the electrically conductive component is conductive carbon black containing primary particles which have a volume-weighted particle size distribution between diameter percentiles d10>5 nm and d90<200 nm. 13. The electrode material as claimed in claim 12, wherein the electrically conductive component is carbon nanotubes having a diameter of from 0.4 to 200 nm. 14. The electrode material as claimed in claim 13, wherein the electrically conductive component contains metallic nanoparticles. 15. A lithium ion battery comprising a negative electrode composed of an electrode material as claimed in claim 14. | 1,700 |
4,011 | 14,782,229 | 1,717 | In a film formation method, a mist of a solution is sprayed onto a substrate to form a film on the substrate. A film formation is then suspended. The substrate is then exposed to plasma. | 1. A film formation method comprising the steps of:
(A) spraying a mist of a solution onto a substrate (10) to form a film on said substrate; (B) suspending said step (A); and (C) after said step (B), exposing said substrate to plasma. 2. The film formation method according to claim 1, further comprising the step of
(D) suspending said step (C), wherein a series of steps from said step (A) to said step (D) is set to one cycle, and the series of steps is repeated for at least two cycles. 3. The film formation method according to claim 1, wherein
said step (B) is a step of moving said substrate from a spraying region in which said solution is sprayed to a non-spraying region in which said solution is not sprayed. 4. The film formation method according to claim 1, wherein
said step (B) is a step of stopping spraying of said solution onto said substrate. 5. The film formation method according to claim 1, wherein
said step (C) is a step of performing exposure to said plasma with use of gas containing a noble gas as a plasma generating gas. 6. The film formation method according to claim 1, wherein
said step (C) is a step of performing exposure to said plasma with use of gas containing an oxidizing agent as a plasma generating gas. | In a film formation method, a mist of a solution is sprayed onto a substrate to form a film on the substrate. A film formation is then suspended. The substrate is then exposed to plasma.1. A film formation method comprising the steps of:
(A) spraying a mist of a solution onto a substrate (10) to form a film on said substrate; (B) suspending said step (A); and (C) after said step (B), exposing said substrate to plasma. 2. The film formation method according to claim 1, further comprising the step of
(D) suspending said step (C), wherein a series of steps from said step (A) to said step (D) is set to one cycle, and the series of steps is repeated for at least two cycles. 3. The film formation method according to claim 1, wherein
said step (B) is a step of moving said substrate from a spraying region in which said solution is sprayed to a non-spraying region in which said solution is not sprayed. 4. The film formation method according to claim 1, wherein
said step (B) is a step of stopping spraying of said solution onto said substrate. 5. The film formation method according to claim 1, wherein
said step (C) is a step of performing exposure to said plasma with use of gas containing a noble gas as a plasma generating gas. 6. The film formation method according to claim 1, wherein
said step (C) is a step of performing exposure to said plasma with use of gas containing an oxidizing agent as a plasma generating gas. | 1,700 |
4,012 | 13,366,206 | 1,732 | Embodiments of the invention generally provide compositions of crystalline zeolite materials with tailored crystal habits and the methods for forming such crystalline zeolite materials. The methods for forming the crystalline zeolite materials include binding one or more zeolite growth modifiers (ZGMs) to the surface of a zeolite crystal, which results in the modification of crystal growth rates along different crystallographic directions, leading to the formation of zeolites having a tailored crystal habit. The improved properties enabled by the tailored crystal habit include a minimized crystal thickness, a shortened internal diffusion pathlength, and a greater step density as compared to a zeolite having the native crystal habit prepared by traditional processes. The tailored crystal habit provides the crystalline zeolite materials with an aspect ratio of about 4 or greater and crystal surfaces having a step density of about 25 steps/μm 2 or greater. | 1. A method for forming a zeolite material, comprising:
combining at least one framework source precursor, a zeolite growth modifier, and a solvent to form a synthesis mixture; and maintaining the synthesis mixture at a predetermined temperature for a predetermined time and forming a plurality of zeolite crystals within a suspension during a synthesis process, wherein each of the zeolite crystals comprises:
a crystalline zeolite material having a single crystal structure;
an upper surface of the crystalline zeolite material extending substantially parallel to a lower surface of the crystalline zeolite material;
a length of the upper surface within a range from about 10 nm to about 50 μm;
a width of the upper surface within a range from about 10 nm to about 50 μm;
a plurality of side surfaces extending between the upper and lower surfaces;
a thickness of the crystalline zeolite material extending substantially perpendicular between the upper and lower surfaces;
an aspect ratio of about 4 or greater, wherein the aspect ratio is determined as a sum of one half of the length and one half of the width of the upper surface relative to the thickness of the crystalline zeolite material; and
a plurality of vertical channels extending between the upper and lower surfaces, wherein each vertical channel independently has an exclusive diffusion pathway extending from an opening on the upper surface, through the crystalline zeolite material, and to an opening on the lower surface. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the zeolite growth modifier comprises at least one compound selected from the group consisting of monoamine, polyamine, hydroxyl amine, aromatic amine, pyridinium amine, polymeric amine, amino acid, phosphine oxide, phosphonic acid, phosphate, phosphorous-containing amine, isomers thereof, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the zeolite growth modifier comprises a monoamine selected from the group consisting of dipropylamine, tert-butylamine, N,N-dimethylbutylamine, isomers thereof, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 4. The method of claim 2, wherein the zeolite growth modifier comprises a polyamine selected from the group consisting of triethylenetetramine (TETA), tris(2-aminoethyl)amine (T2TETA), spermine, isomers thereof, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 5. The method of claim 2, wherein the zeolite growth modifier comprises a polyamine and the polyamine is a diamine. 6. The method of claim 5, wherein the diamine is selected from the group consisting of ethylenediamine, tetramethylethylenediamine, tetramethylenediamine, hexamethylenediamine, ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA), isomers thereof, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 7. The method of claim 2, wherein the zeolite growth modifier comprises a hydroxyl amine. 8. The method of claim 7, wherein the hydroxylamine is selected from the group consisting of 2-dimethylethanolamine (DMEA), ethanolamine, diethanolamine, triethanolamine, methyaminoethanol, tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane (THAM), 3-amino-1-propanol, isomers thereof, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 9. The method of claim 2, wherein the zeolite growth modifier comprises an aromatic amine. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the aromatic amine is selected from the group consisting of nitroaniline, dopamine, isomers thereof, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 11. The method of claim 2, wherein the zeolite growth modifier comprises a pyridinium amine. 12. The method of claim 11, wherein the pyridinium amine is selected from the group consisting of pyridostigmine, 4-(4-diethylaminostyryl)-N-methylpyridinium, isomers thereof, salts thereof, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 13. The method of claim 2, wherein the zeolite growth modifier comprises a polymeric amine. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the polymeric amine is selected from the group consisting of polyethyleneimine, polylysine, polythreonine, isomers thereof, salts thereof, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 15. The method of claim 2, wherein the zeolite growth modifier comprises an amino acid selected from the group consisting of arginine, lysine, histidine, threonine, serine, isomers thereof, salts thereof, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 16. The method of claim 2, wherein the zeolite growth modifier comprises a phosphine oxide. 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the phosphine oxide is selected from the group consisting of trimethylphosphine oxide, triethylphosphine oxide, tributylphosphine oxide (TBPO), tris(2-carbamoylethyl) phosphine oxide, isomers thereof, salts thereof, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 18. The method of claim 2, wherein the zeolite growth modifier comprises a phosphonic acid. 19. The method of claim 18, wherein the phosphonic acid is a diphosphonic acid selected from the group consisting of 1,10-decanediphosphonic acid, 1,8-octanediphosphonic acid, 1,7-heptanediphosphonic acid, 1,6-hexanediphosphonic acid, 1,5-pentanediphosphonic acid, 1,4-butanediphosphonic acid, isomers thereof, salts thereof, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 20. The method of claim 2, wherein the zeolite growth modifier comprises a phosphate. 21. The method of claim 20, wherein the phosphate is selected from the group consisting of diethyl tert-butylamido phosphate, o-phospho-D/L-serine, diethyl ethylamido phosphate, isomers thereof, salts thereof, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 22. The method of claim 1, wherein a synthesis mixture comprising the at least one framework source precursor, the zeolite growth modifier, and the solvent, and the synthesis mixture has a concentration of the zeolite growth modifier within a range from about 0.05 wt % to about 5 wt % during the synthesis process. 23. The method of claim 1, further comprising combining a structure directing agent with the at least one framework source precursor, the zeolite growth modifier, and the solvent to form a synthesis mixture during the synthesis process. 24. The method of claim 23, wherein the structure directing agent comprises at least one ammonium source. 25. The method of claim 24, wherein the at least one ammonium source comprises a tetraalkylammonium hydroxide selected from the group consisting of tetramethylammonium hydroxide, tetraethylammonium hydroxide, tetrapropylammonium hydroxide, tetrabutylammonium hydroxide, tetraamylammonium hydroxide, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 26. The method of claim 24, wherein the at least one ammonium source comprises a quaternary ammonium-type surfactant or a dimer or a trimer of a tetraalkylammonium compound. 27. The method of claim 26, wherein the quaternary ammonium-type surfactant comprises a cation selected from the group consisting of [C22H45—(N(CH3)2—C6H12)2—H]2+ (22-N2—H), [C18H37—(N(CH3)2—C6—H12)3—C18H37]3+ (18-N3-18), [C22H45—(N(CH3)2—C6H12)4—C22H45]4+ (22-N4-22), [(C3H7)3N(C7H14)N(C3H7)3]2+ (dC7), [(C3H7)3N(C6H12)N(C3H7)3]2+ (dC6), [(C3H7)2N((C6H12)N(C3H7)3)2]3+ (tC6), derivatives thereof, and salts thereof. 28. The method of claim 23, wherein the structure directing agent comprises piperidine, alkyl piperidine, salts thereof, derivatives thereof, or combinations thereof. 29. The method of claim 1, further comprising combining a plurality of zeolite seed crystals with the at least one framework source precursor, the zeolite growth modifier, and the solvent to form a synthesis mixture during the synthesis process. 30. The method of claim 29, wherein each of the zeolite seed crystals have a crystal structure selected from the group consisting of AEL, ANA, BEA, CHA, FAU, FER, GIS, LEV, LTL, MFI, MOR, MTW, SOD, STI, substituted forms thereof, and derivatives thereof. 31. The method of claim 1, wherein the framework source precursor comprises at least one source precursor selected from the group consisting of silica source, alumina source, phosphate source, silicoaluminate source, silicoaluminophosphate source, titania source, germania source, hydrates thereof, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 32. The method of claim 31, wherein the framework source precursor comprises a silica source selected from the group consisting of colloidal silica, fumed silica, silica salts, metallic silicates, hydrates thereof, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 33. The method of claim 31, wherein the framework source precursor comprises a silica source selected from the group consisting of an alkyl orthosilicate, orthosilicic acid, silicic acid, salts thereof, hydrates thereof, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 34. The method of claim 33, wherein the silica source comprises at least one alkyl orthosilicate selected from the group consisting of tetramethyl orthosilicate, tetraethyl orthosilicate, tetrapropyl orthosilicate, tetrabutyl orthosilicate, salts thereof, hydrates thereof, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 35. The method of claim 31, wherein the framework source precursor comprises an alumina source selected from the group consisting of alumina, aluminum sulfate, aluminum nitrate, aluminum isopropoxide, aluminum butoxide, aluminum chloride, aluminum fluoride, aluminum phosphate, aluminum hydroxide, sodium aluminate, potassium aluminate, aluminates thereof, hydrates thereof, salts thereof, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 36. The method of claim 31, wherein the framework source precursor comprises a phosphate source selected from the group consisting of phosphoric acid, trimethylphosphine, triethylphosphine, tripropylphosphine, tributylphosphine, trimethyl phosphate, triethyl phosphate, tripropyl phosphate, tributyl phosphate, aluminum phosphate, aluminophosphate, phosphates thereof, salts thereof, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 37. The method of claim 1, further comprising an aspect ratio of about 6 or greater. 38. The method of claim 37, wherein the aspect ratio within a range from about 10 to about 100. 39. A method for forming a zeolite material, comprising:
combining at least one framework source precursor, a zeolite growth modifier, and a solvent to form a plurality of zeolite crystals within a suspension during a synthesis process, wherein each of the zeolite crystals comprises:
a crystalline zeolite material having a single crystal structure;
an upper surface of the crystalline zeolite material extending substantially parallel to a lower surface of the crystalline zeolite material, wherein the upper surface has a step density of about 25 steps/μm2 or greater;
a length of the upper surface within a range from about 10 nm to about 50 μm;
a width of the upper surface within a range from about 10 nm to about 50 μm; and
a plurality of side surfaces extending between the upper and lower surfaces. 40. The method of claim 39, wherein the zeolite growth modifier comprises at least one compound selected from the group consisting of monoamine, polyamine, hydroxyl amine, aromatic amine, pyridinium amine, polymeric amine, amino acid, phosphine oxide, phosphonic acid, phosphate, phosphorous-containing amine, isomers thereof, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 41. The method of claim 40, wherein a synthesis mixture comprising the at least one framework source precursor, the zeolite growth modifier, and the solvent, and the synthesis mixture has a concentration of the zeolite growth modifier within a range from about 0.05 wt % to about 5 wt % during the synthesis process. 42. The method of claim 39, further comprising combining a structure directing agent with the at least one framework source precursor, the zeolite growth modifier, and the solvent to form a synthesis mixture during the synthesis process. 43. The method of claim 42, wherein the structure directing agent comprises a tetraalkylammonium compound. 44. The method of claim 39, further comprising combining a plurality of zeolite seed crystals with the at least one framework source precursor, the zeolite growth modifier, and the solvent to form a synthesis mixture during the synthesis process. 45. The method of claim 39, wherein the framework source precursor comprises at least one material selected from the group consisting of silica source, alumina source, phosphate source, silicoaluminate source, silicoaluminophosphate source, titania source, germania source, hydrates thereof, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 46. The method of claim 39, wherein the upper surface has a step density of about 40 steps/μm2 or greater. 47. The method of claim 46, wherein the upper surface has a step density of about 80 steps/μm2 or greater. 48. A method for forming a zeolite material, comprising:
combining at least one framework source precursor, a zeolite growth modifier, and a solvent to form a synthesis mixture; forming zeolite seed crystals within the synthesis mixture during a synthesis step, wherein each of the zeolite seed crystals has a single crystalline structure and a first crystal habit; and maintaining the synthesis mixture at a predetermined temperature for a predetermined time during a growth step, wherein the zeolite growth modifier is adsorbed to outer surfaces of the zeolite seed crystals within the synthesis mixture and each of the zeolite seed crystals forms a zeolite crystal having the single crystalline structure and a second crystal habit different than the first crystal habit. 49. The method of claim 48, wherein the zeolite growth modifier is adsorbed to upper and lower surfaces of the zeolite seed crystals while side surfaces of the zeolite seed crystals remain substantially free of the zeolite growth modifier during the growth step. 50. The method of claim 48, further comprising growing the zeolite crystals from the zeolite seed crystals at a faster rate in a two-dimension plane than in a third dimension perpendicular to the two-dimension plane during the growth process. 51. The method of claim 50, wherein the zeolite growth modifier is maintained at a concentration within the second zeolite suspension to enable the faster growth rate in the two-dimension plane than in the third dimension. 52. The method of claim 48, wherein the zeolite crystal has an aspect ratio of about 4 or greater, and the aspect ratio is determined as a sum of one half of a length and one half of a width of an upper surface of the zeolite crystal relative to a thickness of the zeolite crystal. 53. The method of claim 52, wherein the zeolite seed crystal has an aspect ratio of less than 4, and the aspect ratio is determined as a sum of one half of a length and one half of a width of an upper surface of the zeolite seed crystal relative to a thickness of the zeolite seed crystal. 54. The method of claim 52, wherein the zeolite crystal has an aspect ratio of about 10 or greater. 55. The method of claim 48, further comprising combining a mineralizing agent with the at least one framework source precursor, the zeolite growth modifier, and the solvent to form the synthesis mixture. 56. The method of claim 48, further comprising combining a structure directing agent with the at least one framework source precursor, the zeolite growth modifier, and the solvent to form the synthesis mixture. 57. The method of claim 56, wherein the structure directing agent comprises at least one ammonium source. 58. A method for forming a zeolite material, comprising:
combining at least one framework source precursor, a structure directing agent, and a solvent to form a plurality of zeolite seed crystals in a first zeolite suspension during a synthesis process, wherein each of the zeolite seed crystals has a single crystalline structure and a first crystal habit; and combining a zeolite growth modifier and the plurality of zeolite seed crystals to form a plurality of zeolite crystals in a second zeolite suspension during a growth process, wherein each of the zeolite crystals has the single crystalline structure and a second crystal habit different than the first crystal habit. 59. The method of claim 58, further comprising growing the zeolite crystals from the zeolite seed crystals at a faster rate in a two-dimension plane than in a third dimension perpendicular to the two-dimension plane during the growth process. 60. The method of claim 59, wherein the zeolite growth modifier is maintained at a concentration within the second zeolite suspension to enable the faster growth rate in the two-dimension plane than in the third dimension. 61. The method of claim 60, wherein the concentration of the zeolite growth modifier is within a range from about 0.05 wt % to about 5 wt % of the second zeolite suspension. 62. The method of claim 58, wherein the second crystal habit of each of the zeolite crystals comprises:
an upper surface of the zeolite crystal extending substantially parallel to a lower surface of the zeolite crystal; a length of the upper surface within a range from about 10 nm to about 50 μm; a width of the upper surface within a range from about 10 nm to about 50 μm; a plurality of side surfaces extending between the upper and lower surfaces; a thickness of the zeolite crystal extending substantially perpendicular between the upper and lower surfaces; an aspect ratio of about 4 or greater, wherein the aspect ratio is determined as a sum of one half of the length and one half of the width of the upper surface relative to the thickness of the zeolite crystal; and a plurality of vertical channels extending between the upper and lower surfaces, wherein each vertical channel independently has an exclusive diffusion pathway extending from an opening on the upper surface, through the zeolite crystal, and to an opening on the lower surface. 63. The method of claim 62, further comprising an aspect ratio of about 10 or greater. 64. The method of claim 63, further comprising an aspect ratio of about 50 or greater. 65. The method of claim 58, wherein the second crystal habit of each of the zeolite crystals comprises:
an upper surface of the crystalline zeolite material extending substantially parallel to a lower surface of the crystalline zeolite material, wherein the upper surface has a step density of about 25 steps/μm2 or greater; a length of the upper surface within a range from about 10 nm to about 50 μm; a width of the upper surface within a range from about 10 nm to about 50 μm; and a plurality of side surfaces extending between the upper and lower surfaces. 66. The method of claim 65, wherein the upper surface has a step density of about 40 steps/μm2 or greater. 67. The method of claim 66, wherein the upper surface has a step density of about 80 steps/μm2 or greater. 68. A composition of a zeolite, comprising:
a crystalline zeolite material having a single crystal structure; an upper surface of the crystalline zeolite material extending substantially parallel to a lower surface of the crystalline zeolite material; a length of the upper surface within a range from about 10 nm to about 50 μm; a width of the upper surface within a range from about 10 nm to about 50 μm; a plurality of side surfaces extending between the upper and lower surfaces; a thickness of the crystalline zeolite material extending substantially perpendicular between the upper and lower surfaces; an aspect ratio of about 4 or greater, wherein the aspect ratio is determined as a sum of one half of the length and one half of the width of the upper surface relative to the thickness of the crystalline zeolite material; and a plurality of vertical channels extending between the upper and lower surfaces, wherein each vertical channel independently has an exclusive diffusion pathway extending from an opening on the upper surface, through the crystalline zeolite material, and to an opening on the lower surface. 69. The composition of claim 68, further comprising an aspect ratio of about 10 or greater. 70. The composition of claim 68, further comprising an aspect ratio of about 50 or greater. 71. The composition of claim 68, wherein the thickness of the crystalline zeolite material is within a range from about 50 nm to about 250 nm. 72. The composition of claim 68, wherein the length of the upper surface is within a range from about 0.5 μm to about 5 μm and the width of the upper surface is within a range from about 0.5 μm to about 5 μm. 73. The composition of claim 68, further comprising a plurality of horizontal channels extending between the side surfaces. 74. The composition of claim 68, wherein the crystalline zeolite material is a 2-dimensional zeolite or a 3-dimensional zeolite. 75. The composition of claim 68, further comprising a plurality of tortuous channels extending between the upper and lower surfaces, the upper surface and the side surfaces, the lower surface and the side surfaces, or two of the side surfaces. 76. The composition of claim 68, wherein the upper and lower surfaces or the side surfaces contain stepped layers or hillocks having active growth sites, and each of the active growth sites is selected from the group consisting of step, kink, terrace site, and combinations thereof. 77. The composition of claim 68, wherein the upper and lower surfaces or the side surfaces contain stepped layers or hillocks having active growth sites, and the stepped layers or hillocks have triangular geometry, rectangular geometry, rounded geometry, or elliptical geometry. 78. The composition of claim 68, wherein the upper surface has a step density of about 25 steps/μm2 or greater. 79. The composition of claim 68, wherein the single crystal structure of the crystalline zeolite material is selected from the group consisting of AEL, ANA, BEA, CHA, FAU, FER, GIS, LEV, LTL, MFI, MOR, MTW, SOD, STI, substituted forms thereof, and derivatives thereof. 80. The composition of claim 68, wherein the crystalline zeolite material comprises a material selected from the group consisting of silicate, aluminosilicate, silicoaluminophosphate, aluminumphosphate, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 81. A composition of a zeolite, comprising:
a crystalline zeolite material having a single crystal structure; an upper surface of the crystalline zeolite material extending substantially parallel to a lower surface of the crystalline zeolite material, wherein the upper surface has a step density of about 25 steps/μm2 or greater; a length of the upper surface within a range from about 10 nm to about 50 μm; a width of the upper surface within a range from about 10 nm to about 50 μm; and a plurality of side surfaces extending between the upper and lower surfaces. 82. The composition of claim 81, wherein the upper surface has a step density of about 80 steps/μm2 or greater. 83. The composition of claim 81, wherein the upper and lower surfaces or the side surfaces contain stepped layers or hillocks having active growth sites, and each of the active growth sites is selected from the group consisting of step, kink, terrace site, and combinations thereof. 84. The composition of claim 81, wherein the upper and lower surfaces or the side surfaces contain stepped layers or hillocks having active growth sites, and the stepped layers or hillocks have triangular geometry, rectangular geometry, rounded geometry or elliptical geometry. 85. The composition of claim 81, further comprising an aspect ratio of about 4 or greater, the aspect ratio is determined as a sum of one half of the length and one half of the width of the upper surface relative to the thickness of the crystalline zeolite material. 86. The composition of claim 85, wherein the aspect ratio within a range from about 10 to about 100. 87. A composition of a zeolite, comprising:
a crystalline zeolite material having a single crystal structure; an upper surface of the crystalline zeolite material extending substantially parallel to a lower surface of the crystalline zeolite material, wherein the upper surface has a step density of about 25 steps/μm2 or greater; a length of the upper surface within a range from about 10 nm to about 50 μm; a width of the upper surface within a range from about 10 nm to about 50 μm; a plurality of side surfaces extending between the upper and lower surfaces; a thickness of the crystalline zeolite material extending substantially perpendicular between the upper and lower surfaces; an aspect ratio of about 4 or greater, wherein the aspect ratio is determined as a sum of one half of the length and one half of the width of the upper surface relative to the thickness of the crystalline zeolite material; and a plurality of vertical channels extending between the upper and lower surfaces, wherein each vertical channel independently has an exclusive diffusion pathway extending from an opening on the upper surface, through the crystalline zeolite material, and to an opening on the lower surface. | Embodiments of the invention generally provide compositions of crystalline zeolite materials with tailored crystal habits and the methods for forming such crystalline zeolite materials. The methods for forming the crystalline zeolite materials include binding one or more zeolite growth modifiers (ZGMs) to the surface of a zeolite crystal, which results in the modification of crystal growth rates along different crystallographic directions, leading to the formation of zeolites having a tailored crystal habit. The improved properties enabled by the tailored crystal habit include a minimized crystal thickness, a shortened internal diffusion pathlength, and a greater step density as compared to a zeolite having the native crystal habit prepared by traditional processes. The tailored crystal habit provides the crystalline zeolite materials with an aspect ratio of about 4 or greater and crystal surfaces having a step density of about 25 steps/μm 2 or greater.1. A method for forming a zeolite material, comprising:
combining at least one framework source precursor, a zeolite growth modifier, and a solvent to form a synthesis mixture; and maintaining the synthesis mixture at a predetermined temperature for a predetermined time and forming a plurality of zeolite crystals within a suspension during a synthesis process, wherein each of the zeolite crystals comprises:
a crystalline zeolite material having a single crystal structure;
an upper surface of the crystalline zeolite material extending substantially parallel to a lower surface of the crystalline zeolite material;
a length of the upper surface within a range from about 10 nm to about 50 μm;
a width of the upper surface within a range from about 10 nm to about 50 μm;
a plurality of side surfaces extending between the upper and lower surfaces;
a thickness of the crystalline zeolite material extending substantially perpendicular between the upper and lower surfaces;
an aspect ratio of about 4 or greater, wherein the aspect ratio is determined as a sum of one half of the length and one half of the width of the upper surface relative to the thickness of the crystalline zeolite material; and
a plurality of vertical channels extending between the upper and lower surfaces, wherein each vertical channel independently has an exclusive diffusion pathway extending from an opening on the upper surface, through the crystalline zeolite material, and to an opening on the lower surface. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the zeolite growth modifier comprises at least one compound selected from the group consisting of monoamine, polyamine, hydroxyl amine, aromatic amine, pyridinium amine, polymeric amine, amino acid, phosphine oxide, phosphonic acid, phosphate, phosphorous-containing amine, isomers thereof, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the zeolite growth modifier comprises a monoamine selected from the group consisting of dipropylamine, tert-butylamine, N,N-dimethylbutylamine, isomers thereof, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 4. The method of claim 2, wherein the zeolite growth modifier comprises a polyamine selected from the group consisting of triethylenetetramine (TETA), tris(2-aminoethyl)amine (T2TETA), spermine, isomers thereof, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 5. The method of claim 2, wherein the zeolite growth modifier comprises a polyamine and the polyamine is a diamine. 6. The method of claim 5, wherein the diamine is selected from the group consisting of ethylenediamine, tetramethylethylenediamine, tetramethylenediamine, hexamethylenediamine, ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA), isomers thereof, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 7. The method of claim 2, wherein the zeolite growth modifier comprises a hydroxyl amine. 8. The method of claim 7, wherein the hydroxylamine is selected from the group consisting of 2-dimethylethanolamine (DMEA), ethanolamine, diethanolamine, triethanolamine, methyaminoethanol, tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane (THAM), 3-amino-1-propanol, isomers thereof, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 9. The method of claim 2, wherein the zeolite growth modifier comprises an aromatic amine. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the aromatic amine is selected from the group consisting of nitroaniline, dopamine, isomers thereof, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 11. The method of claim 2, wherein the zeolite growth modifier comprises a pyridinium amine. 12. The method of claim 11, wherein the pyridinium amine is selected from the group consisting of pyridostigmine, 4-(4-diethylaminostyryl)-N-methylpyridinium, isomers thereof, salts thereof, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 13. The method of claim 2, wherein the zeolite growth modifier comprises a polymeric amine. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the polymeric amine is selected from the group consisting of polyethyleneimine, polylysine, polythreonine, isomers thereof, salts thereof, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 15. The method of claim 2, wherein the zeolite growth modifier comprises an amino acid selected from the group consisting of arginine, lysine, histidine, threonine, serine, isomers thereof, salts thereof, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 16. The method of claim 2, wherein the zeolite growth modifier comprises a phosphine oxide. 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the phosphine oxide is selected from the group consisting of trimethylphosphine oxide, triethylphosphine oxide, tributylphosphine oxide (TBPO), tris(2-carbamoylethyl) phosphine oxide, isomers thereof, salts thereof, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 18. The method of claim 2, wherein the zeolite growth modifier comprises a phosphonic acid. 19. The method of claim 18, wherein the phosphonic acid is a diphosphonic acid selected from the group consisting of 1,10-decanediphosphonic acid, 1,8-octanediphosphonic acid, 1,7-heptanediphosphonic acid, 1,6-hexanediphosphonic acid, 1,5-pentanediphosphonic acid, 1,4-butanediphosphonic acid, isomers thereof, salts thereof, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 20. The method of claim 2, wherein the zeolite growth modifier comprises a phosphate. 21. The method of claim 20, wherein the phosphate is selected from the group consisting of diethyl tert-butylamido phosphate, o-phospho-D/L-serine, diethyl ethylamido phosphate, isomers thereof, salts thereof, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 22. The method of claim 1, wherein a synthesis mixture comprising the at least one framework source precursor, the zeolite growth modifier, and the solvent, and the synthesis mixture has a concentration of the zeolite growth modifier within a range from about 0.05 wt % to about 5 wt % during the synthesis process. 23. The method of claim 1, further comprising combining a structure directing agent with the at least one framework source precursor, the zeolite growth modifier, and the solvent to form a synthesis mixture during the synthesis process. 24. The method of claim 23, wherein the structure directing agent comprises at least one ammonium source. 25. The method of claim 24, wherein the at least one ammonium source comprises a tetraalkylammonium hydroxide selected from the group consisting of tetramethylammonium hydroxide, tetraethylammonium hydroxide, tetrapropylammonium hydroxide, tetrabutylammonium hydroxide, tetraamylammonium hydroxide, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 26. The method of claim 24, wherein the at least one ammonium source comprises a quaternary ammonium-type surfactant or a dimer or a trimer of a tetraalkylammonium compound. 27. The method of claim 26, wherein the quaternary ammonium-type surfactant comprises a cation selected from the group consisting of [C22H45—(N(CH3)2—C6H12)2—H]2+ (22-N2—H), [C18H37—(N(CH3)2—C6—H12)3—C18H37]3+ (18-N3-18), [C22H45—(N(CH3)2—C6H12)4—C22H45]4+ (22-N4-22), [(C3H7)3N(C7H14)N(C3H7)3]2+ (dC7), [(C3H7)3N(C6H12)N(C3H7)3]2+ (dC6), [(C3H7)2N((C6H12)N(C3H7)3)2]3+ (tC6), derivatives thereof, and salts thereof. 28. The method of claim 23, wherein the structure directing agent comprises piperidine, alkyl piperidine, salts thereof, derivatives thereof, or combinations thereof. 29. The method of claim 1, further comprising combining a plurality of zeolite seed crystals with the at least one framework source precursor, the zeolite growth modifier, and the solvent to form a synthesis mixture during the synthesis process. 30. The method of claim 29, wherein each of the zeolite seed crystals have a crystal structure selected from the group consisting of AEL, ANA, BEA, CHA, FAU, FER, GIS, LEV, LTL, MFI, MOR, MTW, SOD, STI, substituted forms thereof, and derivatives thereof. 31. The method of claim 1, wherein the framework source precursor comprises at least one source precursor selected from the group consisting of silica source, alumina source, phosphate source, silicoaluminate source, silicoaluminophosphate source, titania source, germania source, hydrates thereof, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 32. The method of claim 31, wherein the framework source precursor comprises a silica source selected from the group consisting of colloidal silica, fumed silica, silica salts, metallic silicates, hydrates thereof, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 33. The method of claim 31, wherein the framework source precursor comprises a silica source selected from the group consisting of an alkyl orthosilicate, orthosilicic acid, silicic acid, salts thereof, hydrates thereof, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 34. The method of claim 33, wherein the silica source comprises at least one alkyl orthosilicate selected from the group consisting of tetramethyl orthosilicate, tetraethyl orthosilicate, tetrapropyl orthosilicate, tetrabutyl orthosilicate, salts thereof, hydrates thereof, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 35. The method of claim 31, wherein the framework source precursor comprises an alumina source selected from the group consisting of alumina, aluminum sulfate, aluminum nitrate, aluminum isopropoxide, aluminum butoxide, aluminum chloride, aluminum fluoride, aluminum phosphate, aluminum hydroxide, sodium aluminate, potassium aluminate, aluminates thereof, hydrates thereof, salts thereof, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 36. The method of claim 31, wherein the framework source precursor comprises a phosphate source selected from the group consisting of phosphoric acid, trimethylphosphine, triethylphosphine, tripropylphosphine, tributylphosphine, trimethyl phosphate, triethyl phosphate, tripropyl phosphate, tributyl phosphate, aluminum phosphate, aluminophosphate, phosphates thereof, salts thereof, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 37. The method of claim 1, further comprising an aspect ratio of about 6 or greater. 38. The method of claim 37, wherein the aspect ratio within a range from about 10 to about 100. 39. A method for forming a zeolite material, comprising:
combining at least one framework source precursor, a zeolite growth modifier, and a solvent to form a plurality of zeolite crystals within a suspension during a synthesis process, wherein each of the zeolite crystals comprises:
a crystalline zeolite material having a single crystal structure;
an upper surface of the crystalline zeolite material extending substantially parallel to a lower surface of the crystalline zeolite material, wherein the upper surface has a step density of about 25 steps/μm2 or greater;
a length of the upper surface within a range from about 10 nm to about 50 μm;
a width of the upper surface within a range from about 10 nm to about 50 μm; and
a plurality of side surfaces extending between the upper and lower surfaces. 40. The method of claim 39, wherein the zeolite growth modifier comprises at least one compound selected from the group consisting of monoamine, polyamine, hydroxyl amine, aromatic amine, pyridinium amine, polymeric amine, amino acid, phosphine oxide, phosphonic acid, phosphate, phosphorous-containing amine, isomers thereof, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 41. The method of claim 40, wherein a synthesis mixture comprising the at least one framework source precursor, the zeolite growth modifier, and the solvent, and the synthesis mixture has a concentration of the zeolite growth modifier within a range from about 0.05 wt % to about 5 wt % during the synthesis process. 42. The method of claim 39, further comprising combining a structure directing agent with the at least one framework source precursor, the zeolite growth modifier, and the solvent to form a synthesis mixture during the synthesis process. 43. The method of claim 42, wherein the structure directing agent comprises a tetraalkylammonium compound. 44. The method of claim 39, further comprising combining a plurality of zeolite seed crystals with the at least one framework source precursor, the zeolite growth modifier, and the solvent to form a synthesis mixture during the synthesis process. 45. The method of claim 39, wherein the framework source precursor comprises at least one material selected from the group consisting of silica source, alumina source, phosphate source, silicoaluminate source, silicoaluminophosphate source, titania source, germania source, hydrates thereof, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 46. The method of claim 39, wherein the upper surface has a step density of about 40 steps/μm2 or greater. 47. The method of claim 46, wherein the upper surface has a step density of about 80 steps/μm2 or greater. 48. A method for forming a zeolite material, comprising:
combining at least one framework source precursor, a zeolite growth modifier, and a solvent to form a synthesis mixture; forming zeolite seed crystals within the synthesis mixture during a synthesis step, wherein each of the zeolite seed crystals has a single crystalline structure and a first crystal habit; and maintaining the synthesis mixture at a predetermined temperature for a predetermined time during a growth step, wherein the zeolite growth modifier is adsorbed to outer surfaces of the zeolite seed crystals within the synthesis mixture and each of the zeolite seed crystals forms a zeolite crystal having the single crystalline structure and a second crystal habit different than the first crystal habit. 49. The method of claim 48, wherein the zeolite growth modifier is adsorbed to upper and lower surfaces of the zeolite seed crystals while side surfaces of the zeolite seed crystals remain substantially free of the zeolite growth modifier during the growth step. 50. The method of claim 48, further comprising growing the zeolite crystals from the zeolite seed crystals at a faster rate in a two-dimension plane than in a third dimension perpendicular to the two-dimension plane during the growth process. 51. The method of claim 50, wherein the zeolite growth modifier is maintained at a concentration within the second zeolite suspension to enable the faster growth rate in the two-dimension plane than in the third dimension. 52. The method of claim 48, wherein the zeolite crystal has an aspect ratio of about 4 or greater, and the aspect ratio is determined as a sum of one half of a length and one half of a width of an upper surface of the zeolite crystal relative to a thickness of the zeolite crystal. 53. The method of claim 52, wherein the zeolite seed crystal has an aspect ratio of less than 4, and the aspect ratio is determined as a sum of one half of a length and one half of a width of an upper surface of the zeolite seed crystal relative to a thickness of the zeolite seed crystal. 54. The method of claim 52, wherein the zeolite crystal has an aspect ratio of about 10 or greater. 55. The method of claim 48, further comprising combining a mineralizing agent with the at least one framework source precursor, the zeolite growth modifier, and the solvent to form the synthesis mixture. 56. The method of claim 48, further comprising combining a structure directing agent with the at least one framework source precursor, the zeolite growth modifier, and the solvent to form the synthesis mixture. 57. The method of claim 56, wherein the structure directing agent comprises at least one ammonium source. 58. A method for forming a zeolite material, comprising:
combining at least one framework source precursor, a structure directing agent, and a solvent to form a plurality of zeolite seed crystals in a first zeolite suspension during a synthesis process, wherein each of the zeolite seed crystals has a single crystalline structure and a first crystal habit; and combining a zeolite growth modifier and the plurality of zeolite seed crystals to form a plurality of zeolite crystals in a second zeolite suspension during a growth process, wherein each of the zeolite crystals has the single crystalline structure and a second crystal habit different than the first crystal habit. 59. The method of claim 58, further comprising growing the zeolite crystals from the zeolite seed crystals at a faster rate in a two-dimension plane than in a third dimension perpendicular to the two-dimension plane during the growth process. 60. The method of claim 59, wherein the zeolite growth modifier is maintained at a concentration within the second zeolite suspension to enable the faster growth rate in the two-dimension plane than in the third dimension. 61. The method of claim 60, wherein the concentration of the zeolite growth modifier is within a range from about 0.05 wt % to about 5 wt % of the second zeolite suspension. 62. The method of claim 58, wherein the second crystal habit of each of the zeolite crystals comprises:
an upper surface of the zeolite crystal extending substantially parallel to a lower surface of the zeolite crystal; a length of the upper surface within a range from about 10 nm to about 50 μm; a width of the upper surface within a range from about 10 nm to about 50 μm; a plurality of side surfaces extending between the upper and lower surfaces; a thickness of the zeolite crystal extending substantially perpendicular between the upper and lower surfaces; an aspect ratio of about 4 or greater, wherein the aspect ratio is determined as a sum of one half of the length and one half of the width of the upper surface relative to the thickness of the zeolite crystal; and a plurality of vertical channels extending between the upper and lower surfaces, wherein each vertical channel independently has an exclusive diffusion pathway extending from an opening on the upper surface, through the zeolite crystal, and to an opening on the lower surface. 63. The method of claim 62, further comprising an aspect ratio of about 10 or greater. 64. The method of claim 63, further comprising an aspect ratio of about 50 or greater. 65. The method of claim 58, wherein the second crystal habit of each of the zeolite crystals comprises:
an upper surface of the crystalline zeolite material extending substantially parallel to a lower surface of the crystalline zeolite material, wherein the upper surface has a step density of about 25 steps/μm2 or greater; a length of the upper surface within a range from about 10 nm to about 50 μm; a width of the upper surface within a range from about 10 nm to about 50 μm; and a plurality of side surfaces extending between the upper and lower surfaces. 66. The method of claim 65, wherein the upper surface has a step density of about 40 steps/μm2 or greater. 67. The method of claim 66, wherein the upper surface has a step density of about 80 steps/μm2 or greater. 68. A composition of a zeolite, comprising:
a crystalline zeolite material having a single crystal structure; an upper surface of the crystalline zeolite material extending substantially parallel to a lower surface of the crystalline zeolite material; a length of the upper surface within a range from about 10 nm to about 50 μm; a width of the upper surface within a range from about 10 nm to about 50 μm; a plurality of side surfaces extending between the upper and lower surfaces; a thickness of the crystalline zeolite material extending substantially perpendicular between the upper and lower surfaces; an aspect ratio of about 4 or greater, wherein the aspect ratio is determined as a sum of one half of the length and one half of the width of the upper surface relative to the thickness of the crystalline zeolite material; and a plurality of vertical channels extending between the upper and lower surfaces, wherein each vertical channel independently has an exclusive diffusion pathway extending from an opening on the upper surface, through the crystalline zeolite material, and to an opening on the lower surface. 69. The composition of claim 68, further comprising an aspect ratio of about 10 or greater. 70. The composition of claim 68, further comprising an aspect ratio of about 50 or greater. 71. The composition of claim 68, wherein the thickness of the crystalline zeolite material is within a range from about 50 nm to about 250 nm. 72. The composition of claim 68, wherein the length of the upper surface is within a range from about 0.5 μm to about 5 μm and the width of the upper surface is within a range from about 0.5 μm to about 5 μm. 73. The composition of claim 68, further comprising a plurality of horizontal channels extending between the side surfaces. 74. The composition of claim 68, wherein the crystalline zeolite material is a 2-dimensional zeolite or a 3-dimensional zeolite. 75. The composition of claim 68, further comprising a plurality of tortuous channels extending between the upper and lower surfaces, the upper surface and the side surfaces, the lower surface and the side surfaces, or two of the side surfaces. 76. The composition of claim 68, wherein the upper and lower surfaces or the side surfaces contain stepped layers or hillocks having active growth sites, and each of the active growth sites is selected from the group consisting of step, kink, terrace site, and combinations thereof. 77. The composition of claim 68, wherein the upper and lower surfaces or the side surfaces contain stepped layers or hillocks having active growth sites, and the stepped layers or hillocks have triangular geometry, rectangular geometry, rounded geometry, or elliptical geometry. 78. The composition of claim 68, wherein the upper surface has a step density of about 25 steps/μm2 or greater. 79. The composition of claim 68, wherein the single crystal structure of the crystalline zeolite material is selected from the group consisting of AEL, ANA, BEA, CHA, FAU, FER, GIS, LEV, LTL, MFI, MOR, MTW, SOD, STI, substituted forms thereof, and derivatives thereof. 80. The composition of claim 68, wherein the crystalline zeolite material comprises a material selected from the group consisting of silicate, aluminosilicate, silicoaluminophosphate, aluminumphosphate, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. 81. A composition of a zeolite, comprising:
a crystalline zeolite material having a single crystal structure; an upper surface of the crystalline zeolite material extending substantially parallel to a lower surface of the crystalline zeolite material, wherein the upper surface has a step density of about 25 steps/μm2 or greater; a length of the upper surface within a range from about 10 nm to about 50 μm; a width of the upper surface within a range from about 10 nm to about 50 μm; and a plurality of side surfaces extending between the upper and lower surfaces. 82. The composition of claim 81, wherein the upper surface has a step density of about 80 steps/μm2 or greater. 83. The composition of claim 81, wherein the upper and lower surfaces or the side surfaces contain stepped layers or hillocks having active growth sites, and each of the active growth sites is selected from the group consisting of step, kink, terrace site, and combinations thereof. 84. The composition of claim 81, wherein the upper and lower surfaces or the side surfaces contain stepped layers or hillocks having active growth sites, and the stepped layers or hillocks have triangular geometry, rectangular geometry, rounded geometry or elliptical geometry. 85. The composition of claim 81, further comprising an aspect ratio of about 4 or greater, the aspect ratio is determined as a sum of one half of the length and one half of the width of the upper surface relative to the thickness of the crystalline zeolite material. 86. The composition of claim 85, wherein the aspect ratio within a range from about 10 to about 100. 87. A composition of a zeolite, comprising:
a crystalline zeolite material having a single crystal structure; an upper surface of the crystalline zeolite material extending substantially parallel to a lower surface of the crystalline zeolite material, wherein the upper surface has a step density of about 25 steps/μm2 or greater; a length of the upper surface within a range from about 10 nm to about 50 μm; a width of the upper surface within a range from about 10 nm to about 50 μm; a plurality of side surfaces extending between the upper and lower surfaces; a thickness of the crystalline zeolite material extending substantially perpendicular between the upper and lower surfaces; an aspect ratio of about 4 or greater, wherein the aspect ratio is determined as a sum of one half of the length and one half of the width of the upper surface relative to the thickness of the crystalline zeolite material; and a plurality of vertical channels extending between the upper and lower surfaces, wherein each vertical channel independently has an exclusive diffusion pathway extending from an opening on the upper surface, through the crystalline zeolite material, and to an opening on the lower surface. | 1,700 |
4,013 | 12,447,343 | 1,727 | A fuel cell includes a cathode having an air flow field. An anode includes an inlet and an outlet for providing unused fuel to a fuel recycling line. A pressure regulator is arranged upstream from an ejector and communicates with the air flow field for adjusting a fuel pressure at the motive inlet in response to an air pressure associated with the air flow field. The cathode and/or anode includes a porous water transport plate adjacent to the air flow field and/or fuel flow field respectively. A back pressure valve is arranged downstream from the air flow field for producing an air back pressure that generates a desired differential pressure across the water transport plate. The back pressure valve is controlled to achieve the desired differential pressure across the water transport plate so that the fuel cell maintains water balance. | 1. A fuel cell comprising:
a cathode having an oxidant flow field; a water transport plate adjacent to at least one of the oxidant flow field and a fuel flow field; a back pressure valve downstream from the oxidant flow field for producing an oxidant back pressure that generates a desired differential pressure across the water transport plate: and an ejector arranged upstream from the fuel flow field and including a motive inlet, the hack pressure valve controlling a fuel pressure at the motive inlet. 2. The fuel cell according to claim 1, wherein the water transport plate is porous. 3. The fuel cell according to claim 2, wherein the desired differential pressure maintains a desired water balance within the fuel cell. 4. The fuel cell according to claim 1, comprising a pressure regulator arranged upstream from the ejector, the pressure regulator increasing and decreasing the fuel pressure in response to an increase and decrease in air pressure, respectively. 5. A method of controlling water balance within a fuel cell comprising the steps of:
providing a water transport plate adjacent to at least one of an air flow field and a fuel flow field; regulating an air back pressure downstream from the air flow field; regulating a fuel pressure based upon an air flow field inlet pressure and a recirculated unused fuel pressure; and maintaining a wet seal using a desired differential pressure across the water transport plate based upon the regulated pressures. 6. The method according to claim 5, comprising the step of regulating a fuel pressure to the fuel flow field with the air back pressure. 7. The method according to claim 6, wherein the fuel pressure is regulated based upon a differential pressure between the air and fuel flow fields. 8. The method according to claim 7, including maintaining the fuel pressure above the air pressure. 9. The method of claim 5, comprising the step of providing a desired amount of fuel to the anode including the step of pumping the unused fuel. 10. A fuel cell comprising:
a cathode having a cathode inlet coupled to a cathode reactant flow field coupled to a cathode outlet; a cathode reactant backpressure valve coupled to said cathode outlet, wherein a cathode reactant flows from an oxidant source through said cathode inlet into said cathode reactant flow field into said cathode outlet through said cathode reactant backpressure valve; an anode having an anode inlet coupled to an anode reactant flow field coupled to an anode outlet; a water transport plate adjacent at least one of said cathode reactant flow field and said anode reactant flow field, said water transport plate configured to maintain a wet seal; and a fuel flow control valve coupled downstream of a source of fuel and upstream of said anode inlet, said fuel flow control valve operatively coupled to said cathode reactant, said fuel flow control valve operatively coupled to said fuel supply, said fuel flow control valve and said cathode reactant backpressure valve configured to maintain said wet seal between said oxidant and said fuel across said water transport plate. 11. The fuel cell of claim 10, comprising:
a fuel recycle line coupled between said anode outlet and said anode inlet; and a recycle pump coupled in said fuel recycle line, wherein said recycle pump is configured to recycle anode exhaust from said anode outlet to said anode inlet. | A fuel cell includes a cathode having an air flow field. An anode includes an inlet and an outlet for providing unused fuel to a fuel recycling line. A pressure regulator is arranged upstream from an ejector and communicates with the air flow field for adjusting a fuel pressure at the motive inlet in response to an air pressure associated with the air flow field. The cathode and/or anode includes a porous water transport plate adjacent to the air flow field and/or fuel flow field respectively. A back pressure valve is arranged downstream from the air flow field for producing an air back pressure that generates a desired differential pressure across the water transport plate. The back pressure valve is controlled to achieve the desired differential pressure across the water transport plate so that the fuel cell maintains water balance.1. A fuel cell comprising:
a cathode having an oxidant flow field; a water transport plate adjacent to at least one of the oxidant flow field and a fuel flow field; a back pressure valve downstream from the oxidant flow field for producing an oxidant back pressure that generates a desired differential pressure across the water transport plate: and an ejector arranged upstream from the fuel flow field and including a motive inlet, the hack pressure valve controlling a fuel pressure at the motive inlet. 2. The fuel cell according to claim 1, wherein the water transport plate is porous. 3. The fuel cell according to claim 2, wherein the desired differential pressure maintains a desired water balance within the fuel cell. 4. The fuel cell according to claim 1, comprising a pressure regulator arranged upstream from the ejector, the pressure regulator increasing and decreasing the fuel pressure in response to an increase and decrease in air pressure, respectively. 5. A method of controlling water balance within a fuel cell comprising the steps of:
providing a water transport plate adjacent to at least one of an air flow field and a fuel flow field; regulating an air back pressure downstream from the air flow field; regulating a fuel pressure based upon an air flow field inlet pressure and a recirculated unused fuel pressure; and maintaining a wet seal using a desired differential pressure across the water transport plate based upon the regulated pressures. 6. The method according to claim 5, comprising the step of regulating a fuel pressure to the fuel flow field with the air back pressure. 7. The method according to claim 6, wherein the fuel pressure is regulated based upon a differential pressure between the air and fuel flow fields. 8. The method according to claim 7, including maintaining the fuel pressure above the air pressure. 9. The method of claim 5, comprising the step of providing a desired amount of fuel to the anode including the step of pumping the unused fuel. 10. A fuel cell comprising:
a cathode having a cathode inlet coupled to a cathode reactant flow field coupled to a cathode outlet; a cathode reactant backpressure valve coupled to said cathode outlet, wherein a cathode reactant flows from an oxidant source through said cathode inlet into said cathode reactant flow field into said cathode outlet through said cathode reactant backpressure valve; an anode having an anode inlet coupled to an anode reactant flow field coupled to an anode outlet; a water transport plate adjacent at least one of said cathode reactant flow field and said anode reactant flow field, said water transport plate configured to maintain a wet seal; and a fuel flow control valve coupled downstream of a source of fuel and upstream of said anode inlet, said fuel flow control valve operatively coupled to said cathode reactant, said fuel flow control valve operatively coupled to said fuel supply, said fuel flow control valve and said cathode reactant backpressure valve configured to maintain said wet seal between said oxidant and said fuel across said water transport plate. 11. The fuel cell of claim 10, comprising:
a fuel recycle line coupled between said anode outlet and said anode inlet; and a recycle pump coupled in said fuel recycle line, wherein said recycle pump is configured to recycle anode exhaust from said anode outlet to said anode inlet. | 1,700 |
4,014 | 14,599,831 | 1,794 | Embodiments of methods for depositing material in features of a substrate have been provided herein. In some embodiments, a method for depositing material in a feature of a substrate includes depositing a material in a feature of a substrate disposed in a process chamber by sputtering a target using a plasma formed from a first gas; and etching the deposited material in the process chamber using a plasma formed from a second gas, different than the first gas, to at least partially reduce overhang of the material in the feature, wherein an atomic mass of the second gas is greater than an atomic mass of the first gas. | 1. A method for depositing material in a feature of a substrate, comprising:
depositing a material in a feature of a substrate disposed in a process chamber by sputtering a target using a plasma formed from a first gas; and etching the deposited material in the process chamber using a plasma formed from a second gas, different than the first gas, to at least partially reduce overhang of the material in the feature, wherein an atomic mass of the second gas is greater than an atomic mass of the first gas. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the first gas comprises one or more noble gases. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the second gas comprises one or more noble gases. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the material comprises at least one of titanium (Ti), tantalum (Ta), copper (Cu), aluminum (Al), cobalt (Co), or tungsten (W). 5. The method of claim 1, wherein an atomic mass ratio of the first gas to the material is less than or equal to 1:1. 6. The method of claim 5, wherein an atomic mass ratio of the second gas to the material is greater than 1:1. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the process chamber is at a first pressure during depositing of the material and is at a second pressure during etching of the deposited material. 8. The method of claim 7, wherein the second pressure is less than the first pressure. 9. A method for depositing material in a feature of a substrate, comprising:
depositing a material in a feature of a substrate disposed in a process chamber by sputtering a target using a plasma formed from a first gas, wherein the first gas has a mass ratio to the material of less than or equal to 1:1; and etching the deposited material using plasma formed from a second gas having an atomic mass ratio to the material of greater than 1:1 to at least partially reduce overhang of the material in the feature. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein etching the deposited material is performed in the same process chamber as depositing the material. 11. The method of claim 9, wherein the first gas comprises one or more noble gases. 12. The method of claim 9, wherein the second gas comprises one or more noble gases. 13. The method of claim 9, wherein the material includes at least one of titanium (Ti), tantalum (Ta), copper (Cu), aluminum (Al), cobalt (Co), and tungsten (W). 14. The method of claim 9, wherein a pressure in the process chamber while sputtering the target is about 60 mTorr to about 300 mTorr. 15. The method of claim 9, wherein sputtering the target further comprises applying RF power to the target at a VHF frequency of about 27 MHz to about 162 MHz. 16. The method of claim 9, wherein sputtering the target further comprises applying DC power to the target at a magnitude of about 1 kW to about 4 kW. 17. The method of claim 9, wherein sputtering the target further comprises applying an RF bias power to the substrate at a frequency ranging from about 400 kHz to about 27 MHz and at a power of up to about 50 W. 18. The method of claim 9, wherein the process chamber is at a first pressure during depositing of the material and is at a second pressure during etching of the deposited material. 19. The method of claim 18, wherein the second pressure is less than the first pressure. 20. A computer readable medium, having instructions stored thereon which, when executed, cause a process chamber to perform a method of depositing material in a feature of a substrate, the method comprising:
depositing a material in a feature of a substrate disposed in a process chamber by sputtering a target using a plasma formed from a first gas, wherein an atomic mass ratio of the first gas to the material is less than or equal to 1:1; and etching the deposited material in the process chamber using a plasma formed from a second gas, different than the first gas, to at least partially reduce overhang of the material in the feature, wherein an atomic mass of the second gas to the material is greater than 1:1. | Embodiments of methods for depositing material in features of a substrate have been provided herein. In some embodiments, a method for depositing material in a feature of a substrate includes depositing a material in a feature of a substrate disposed in a process chamber by sputtering a target using a plasma formed from a first gas; and etching the deposited material in the process chamber using a plasma formed from a second gas, different than the first gas, to at least partially reduce overhang of the material in the feature, wherein an atomic mass of the second gas is greater than an atomic mass of the first gas.1. A method for depositing material in a feature of a substrate, comprising:
depositing a material in a feature of a substrate disposed in a process chamber by sputtering a target using a plasma formed from a first gas; and etching the deposited material in the process chamber using a plasma formed from a second gas, different than the first gas, to at least partially reduce overhang of the material in the feature, wherein an atomic mass of the second gas is greater than an atomic mass of the first gas. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the first gas comprises one or more noble gases. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the second gas comprises one or more noble gases. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the material comprises at least one of titanium (Ti), tantalum (Ta), copper (Cu), aluminum (Al), cobalt (Co), or tungsten (W). 5. The method of claim 1, wherein an atomic mass ratio of the first gas to the material is less than or equal to 1:1. 6. The method of claim 5, wherein an atomic mass ratio of the second gas to the material is greater than 1:1. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the process chamber is at a first pressure during depositing of the material and is at a second pressure during etching of the deposited material. 8. The method of claim 7, wherein the second pressure is less than the first pressure. 9. A method for depositing material in a feature of a substrate, comprising:
depositing a material in a feature of a substrate disposed in a process chamber by sputtering a target using a plasma formed from a first gas, wherein the first gas has a mass ratio to the material of less than or equal to 1:1; and etching the deposited material using plasma formed from a second gas having an atomic mass ratio to the material of greater than 1:1 to at least partially reduce overhang of the material in the feature. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein etching the deposited material is performed in the same process chamber as depositing the material. 11. The method of claim 9, wherein the first gas comprises one or more noble gases. 12. The method of claim 9, wherein the second gas comprises one or more noble gases. 13. The method of claim 9, wherein the material includes at least one of titanium (Ti), tantalum (Ta), copper (Cu), aluminum (Al), cobalt (Co), and tungsten (W). 14. The method of claim 9, wherein a pressure in the process chamber while sputtering the target is about 60 mTorr to about 300 mTorr. 15. The method of claim 9, wherein sputtering the target further comprises applying RF power to the target at a VHF frequency of about 27 MHz to about 162 MHz. 16. The method of claim 9, wherein sputtering the target further comprises applying DC power to the target at a magnitude of about 1 kW to about 4 kW. 17. The method of claim 9, wherein sputtering the target further comprises applying an RF bias power to the substrate at a frequency ranging from about 400 kHz to about 27 MHz and at a power of up to about 50 W. 18. The method of claim 9, wherein the process chamber is at a first pressure during depositing of the material and is at a second pressure during etching of the deposited material. 19. The method of claim 18, wherein the second pressure is less than the first pressure. 20. A computer readable medium, having instructions stored thereon which, when executed, cause a process chamber to perform a method of depositing material in a feature of a substrate, the method comprising:
depositing a material in a feature of a substrate disposed in a process chamber by sputtering a target using a plasma formed from a first gas, wherein an atomic mass ratio of the first gas to the material is less than or equal to 1:1; and etching the deposited material in the process chamber using a plasma formed from a second gas, different than the first gas, to at least partially reduce overhang of the material in the feature, wherein an atomic mass of the second gas to the material is greater than 1:1. | 1,700 |
4,015 | 14,782,576 | 1,786 | The present invention is directed to a new cable having at least one insulation layer, to a process for producing such cable as well as to the use of a polymeric-nucleating agent for increasing the crystallization temperature of a polymer composition being part of an insulation layer of such a cable and the use of such a cable as communication cable and/or electrical cable. | 1. A cable having at least one insulation layer comprising a polymer composition (PC) comprising
(a) at least 94 wt. %, based on the total weight of the polymer composition (PC), of a crystalline polypropylene (PP) homo- or copolymer having a melt flow rate according to ISO 1133 (230° C./2.16 kg) in the range of 1.0 to 10.0 g/10 min and a comonomer content of below 5.0 wt. %, the comonomers are ethylene and/or a C4 to C10 α-olefin, (b) 0.5 to 5 wt. %, based on the total weight of the polymer composition (PC), of an adhesion promoter (AP) being a polar modified polypropylene (PM-PP) homo- or copolymer, (c) 0.0001 to 1.0 wt. %, based on the total weight of the polymer composition (PC), of a polymeric α-nucleating agent (pNA), and (d) optionally 0.02 to 1.0 wt. %, based on the total weight of the polymer composition (PC), of a soluble α-nucleating agent (sNA). 2. The cable according to claim 1, wherein polymer composition (PC)
(a) comprises only the polymeric α-nucleating agent (pNA) and the soluble α-nucleating agent (sNA) as α-nucleating agents; or (b) comprises only the polymeric α-nucleating agent (pNA) as α-nucleating agent. 3. The cable according to claim 1, wherein the polymer composition (PC) and/or the crystalline polypropylene (PP) homo- or copolymer has/have a melting temperature Tm as determined by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) in the range of 155° C. to 170° C. 4. The cable according to claim 1, wherein the polymer composition (PC) and/or the crystalline polypropylene (PP) homo- or copolymer has a crystallization temperature Tc as determined by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) in the range of 118° C. to 131° C. 5. The cable according to claim 1, wherein the polymer composition (PC) has a Shore D hardness from 64 to 75. 6. The cable according to claim 1, wherein the polymer composition (PC) and/or the crystalline polypropylene (PP) homo- or copolymer has/have a content of a fraction soluble in xylene at 25° C. from 0.5 wt % to 8.5 wt. %. 7. The cable according to claim 1, wherein the polymer composition (PC) has a melt flow rate according to ISO 1133 (230° C./2.16 kg) in the range of 1.0 and 8.0 g/10 min. 8. The cable according to claim 1, wherein the polymeric α-nucleating agent (pNA) is a polymerized vinyl compound of formula (IV):
wherein R1 and R2 together form a 5 or 6 membered saturated or unsaturated or aromatic ring or they stand independently for a lower alkyl comprising 1 to 4 carbon atoms. 9. The cable according to claim 8, wherein the polymeric α-nucleating agent (pNA) is a polymerized vinyl compound selected from the group consisting of vinyl cycloalkanes 3 methyl-I-butene, 3-ethyl 1-hexene and mixtures thereof. 10. The cable according to claim 1, wherein the soluble α-nucleating agent (sNA) is:
(a) selected from the group consisting of sorbitol derivatives, nonitol derivatives, benzene-trisamides and mixtures thereof, and/or
(b) present in the polymer composition (PC) in an amount between 0.1 wt. % and 0.8 wt. %, based on the total weight of the polymer composition (PC). 11. The cable according to claim 1, wherein the adhesion promoter (AP) is a maleic anhydride modified polypropylene homo- or copolymer and/or an acrylic acid modified polypropylene homo- or copolymer and/or an acrylic acid modified polypropylene homopolymer. 12. A process for producing a cable according to claim 1, wherein the process comprises the steps of:
(a) forming a polymer composition (PC), according to claim 1, consisting of: (b) applying the polymer composition (PC) of step a) at a melt temperature of 180° C. to 280° C. on a conductor to form an insulation layer, and (c) producing the cable at a processing speed of 300 m/min to 3000 m/min. 13. The process according to claim 12, wherein the conductor is pre-heated to a temperature of between 50° C. and 150° C. 14. The process of claim 12, wherein the polymeric α-nucleating agent (pNA) is a polymerized vinyl compound and the soluble α-nucleating agent (sNA) is selected from the group consisting of sorbitol derivatives, nonitol derivatives, benzene-trisamides and mixtures thereof. 15. The process according to claim 12, wherein the cable is a communication cable. | The present invention is directed to a new cable having at least one insulation layer, to a process for producing such cable as well as to the use of a polymeric-nucleating agent for increasing the crystallization temperature of a polymer composition being part of an insulation layer of such a cable and the use of such a cable as communication cable and/or electrical cable.1. A cable having at least one insulation layer comprising a polymer composition (PC) comprising
(a) at least 94 wt. %, based on the total weight of the polymer composition (PC), of a crystalline polypropylene (PP) homo- or copolymer having a melt flow rate according to ISO 1133 (230° C./2.16 kg) in the range of 1.0 to 10.0 g/10 min and a comonomer content of below 5.0 wt. %, the comonomers are ethylene and/or a C4 to C10 α-olefin, (b) 0.5 to 5 wt. %, based on the total weight of the polymer composition (PC), of an adhesion promoter (AP) being a polar modified polypropylene (PM-PP) homo- or copolymer, (c) 0.0001 to 1.0 wt. %, based on the total weight of the polymer composition (PC), of a polymeric α-nucleating agent (pNA), and (d) optionally 0.02 to 1.0 wt. %, based on the total weight of the polymer composition (PC), of a soluble α-nucleating agent (sNA). 2. The cable according to claim 1, wherein polymer composition (PC)
(a) comprises only the polymeric α-nucleating agent (pNA) and the soluble α-nucleating agent (sNA) as α-nucleating agents; or (b) comprises only the polymeric α-nucleating agent (pNA) as α-nucleating agent. 3. The cable according to claim 1, wherein the polymer composition (PC) and/or the crystalline polypropylene (PP) homo- or copolymer has/have a melting temperature Tm as determined by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) in the range of 155° C. to 170° C. 4. The cable according to claim 1, wherein the polymer composition (PC) and/or the crystalline polypropylene (PP) homo- or copolymer has a crystallization temperature Tc as determined by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) in the range of 118° C. to 131° C. 5. The cable according to claim 1, wherein the polymer composition (PC) has a Shore D hardness from 64 to 75. 6. The cable according to claim 1, wherein the polymer composition (PC) and/or the crystalline polypropylene (PP) homo- or copolymer has/have a content of a fraction soluble in xylene at 25° C. from 0.5 wt % to 8.5 wt. %. 7. The cable according to claim 1, wherein the polymer composition (PC) has a melt flow rate according to ISO 1133 (230° C./2.16 kg) in the range of 1.0 and 8.0 g/10 min. 8. The cable according to claim 1, wherein the polymeric α-nucleating agent (pNA) is a polymerized vinyl compound of formula (IV):
wherein R1 and R2 together form a 5 or 6 membered saturated or unsaturated or aromatic ring or they stand independently for a lower alkyl comprising 1 to 4 carbon atoms. 9. The cable according to claim 8, wherein the polymeric α-nucleating agent (pNA) is a polymerized vinyl compound selected from the group consisting of vinyl cycloalkanes 3 methyl-I-butene, 3-ethyl 1-hexene and mixtures thereof. 10. The cable according to claim 1, wherein the soluble α-nucleating agent (sNA) is:
(a) selected from the group consisting of sorbitol derivatives, nonitol derivatives, benzene-trisamides and mixtures thereof, and/or
(b) present in the polymer composition (PC) in an amount between 0.1 wt. % and 0.8 wt. %, based on the total weight of the polymer composition (PC). 11. The cable according to claim 1, wherein the adhesion promoter (AP) is a maleic anhydride modified polypropylene homo- or copolymer and/or an acrylic acid modified polypropylene homo- or copolymer and/or an acrylic acid modified polypropylene homopolymer. 12. A process for producing a cable according to claim 1, wherein the process comprises the steps of:
(a) forming a polymer composition (PC), according to claim 1, consisting of: (b) applying the polymer composition (PC) of step a) at a melt temperature of 180° C. to 280° C. on a conductor to form an insulation layer, and (c) producing the cable at a processing speed of 300 m/min to 3000 m/min. 13. The process according to claim 12, wherein the conductor is pre-heated to a temperature of between 50° C. and 150° C. 14. The process of claim 12, wherein the polymeric α-nucleating agent (pNA) is a polymerized vinyl compound and the soluble α-nucleating agent (sNA) is selected from the group consisting of sorbitol derivatives, nonitol derivatives, benzene-trisamides and mixtures thereof. 15. The process according to claim 12, wherein the cable is a communication cable. | 1,700 |
4,016 | 14,087,367 | 1,714 | A method of performing a post Chemical Mechanical Polish (CMP) cleaning includes picking up the wafer, spinning a cleaning solution contained in a cleaning tank, and submerging the wafer into the cleaning solution, with the cleaning solution being spun when the wafer is in the cleaning solution. After the submerging the wafer into the cleaning solution, the wafer is retrieved out of the cleaning solution. | 1. A method comprising:
picking up a wafer; spinning a cleaning solution contained in a cleaning tank; submerging the wafer into the cleaning solution, with the cleaning solution spun when the wafer is in the cleaning solution; and after the submerging the wafer into the cleaning solution, retrieving the wafer out of the cleaning solution. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the wafer has a front surface facing down when the wafer is in the cleaning solution. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the cleaning solution is spun at a speed in a range between about 5,000 Rotations per Minute (RPM) and about 40,000 RPM. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein during the submerging the wafer into the cleaning solution, the wafer remains un-rotated. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein during the submerging the wafer into the cleaning solution, the wafer is rotated in a direction opposite to a direction the cleaning solution is spun. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein during the submerging the wafer into the cleaning solution, the cleaning solution is heated to a temperature in a range between about 25° C. and about 80° C. 7. The method of claim 1 further comprising, before picking up the wafer and submerging the wafer into the cleaning solution, performing a Chemical Mechanic Polish (CMP) to planarize a front surface of the wafer, wherein during the submerging the wafer into the cleaning solution, the front surface of the wafer faces toward a bottom of the cleaning tank. 8. A method comprising:
performing a Chemical Mechanic Polish (CMP) to planarize a front surface of a wafer; rotating a cleaning tank, wherein a cleaning solution is contained in the cleaning tank, and wherein the cleaning solution spins along with the cleaning tank; cleaning the wafer by submerging the wafer into the cleaning solution, wherein the front surface of the wafer faces a bottom of the cleaning tank, and wherein the cleaning tank spins when the wafer is in the cleaning solution; and after the submerging the wafer into the cleaning solution, retrieving the wafer out of the cleaning solution. 9. The method of claim 8, wherein the cleaning tank has increasingly reduced diameters from a top end to a bottom end of the cleaning tank, wherein residues on the front surface of the wafer accumulates to the bottom end of the cleaning tank, and wherein the method further comprises, after retrieving the wafer out of the cleaning solution, draining the residues through an outlet at the bottom end of the cleaning tank. 10. The method of claim 8, wherein the cleaning tank spins at a speed in a range between about 5,000 Rotations Per Minute (RPM) and about 40,000 RPM. 11. The method of claim 8, wherein during the submerging the wafer into the cleaning solution, the wafer remains un-rotated. 12. The method of claim 8, wherein the cleaning solution comprises water with no chemicals added therein. 13. The method of claim 8, wherein the cleaning solution comprises an acid aqueous or an organic solution. 14. The method of claim 8, wherein the cleaning solution comprises an alkaline aqueous or an organic solution. 15. An apparatus comprising:
a cleaning tank configured to hold liquid, wherein the cleaning tank is configured to rotate; and a vacuum head facing toward the cleaning tank, wherein the vacuum head is configured to move between a first position and a second position, wherein at the first position, a wafer picked up by the vacuum head is fully out of a solution in the cleaning tank, and at the second position, the wafer is fully submerged in the solution. 16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the cleaning tank has a whipping-top shape, wherein from a top to a bottom of the cleaning tank, diameters of the cleaning tank gradually reduce, and wherein tilted edges of the cleaning tank connecting the top to the bottom of the cleaning tank are curved. 17. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the cleaning tank has a cone shape, wherein from a top to a bottom of the cleaning tank, diameters of the cleaning tank gradually reduce, and wherein tilted edges of the cleaning tank connecting the top to the bottom of the cleaning tank are straight. 18. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the cleaning tank has a cylinder shape, with a top end and a bottom end of the cleaning tank having a same diameter. 19. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the cleaning tank comprises an outlet at a bottom of the cleaning tank, and wherein the apparatus further comprises a pipe connected to the outlet. 20. The apparatus of claim 15 further comprising a driving mechanism configured to rotate the cleaning tank at a speed between about 5,000 Rotations per Minute (RPM) and about 40,000 RPM. | A method of performing a post Chemical Mechanical Polish (CMP) cleaning includes picking up the wafer, spinning a cleaning solution contained in a cleaning tank, and submerging the wafer into the cleaning solution, with the cleaning solution being spun when the wafer is in the cleaning solution. After the submerging the wafer into the cleaning solution, the wafer is retrieved out of the cleaning solution.1. A method comprising:
picking up a wafer; spinning a cleaning solution contained in a cleaning tank; submerging the wafer into the cleaning solution, with the cleaning solution spun when the wafer is in the cleaning solution; and after the submerging the wafer into the cleaning solution, retrieving the wafer out of the cleaning solution. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the wafer has a front surface facing down when the wafer is in the cleaning solution. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the cleaning solution is spun at a speed in a range between about 5,000 Rotations per Minute (RPM) and about 40,000 RPM. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein during the submerging the wafer into the cleaning solution, the wafer remains un-rotated. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein during the submerging the wafer into the cleaning solution, the wafer is rotated in a direction opposite to a direction the cleaning solution is spun. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein during the submerging the wafer into the cleaning solution, the cleaning solution is heated to a temperature in a range between about 25° C. and about 80° C. 7. The method of claim 1 further comprising, before picking up the wafer and submerging the wafer into the cleaning solution, performing a Chemical Mechanic Polish (CMP) to planarize a front surface of the wafer, wherein during the submerging the wafer into the cleaning solution, the front surface of the wafer faces toward a bottom of the cleaning tank. 8. A method comprising:
performing a Chemical Mechanic Polish (CMP) to planarize a front surface of a wafer; rotating a cleaning tank, wherein a cleaning solution is contained in the cleaning tank, and wherein the cleaning solution spins along with the cleaning tank; cleaning the wafer by submerging the wafer into the cleaning solution, wherein the front surface of the wafer faces a bottom of the cleaning tank, and wherein the cleaning tank spins when the wafer is in the cleaning solution; and after the submerging the wafer into the cleaning solution, retrieving the wafer out of the cleaning solution. 9. The method of claim 8, wherein the cleaning tank has increasingly reduced diameters from a top end to a bottom end of the cleaning tank, wherein residues on the front surface of the wafer accumulates to the bottom end of the cleaning tank, and wherein the method further comprises, after retrieving the wafer out of the cleaning solution, draining the residues through an outlet at the bottom end of the cleaning tank. 10. The method of claim 8, wherein the cleaning tank spins at a speed in a range between about 5,000 Rotations Per Minute (RPM) and about 40,000 RPM. 11. The method of claim 8, wherein during the submerging the wafer into the cleaning solution, the wafer remains un-rotated. 12. The method of claim 8, wherein the cleaning solution comprises water with no chemicals added therein. 13. The method of claim 8, wherein the cleaning solution comprises an acid aqueous or an organic solution. 14. The method of claim 8, wherein the cleaning solution comprises an alkaline aqueous or an organic solution. 15. An apparatus comprising:
a cleaning tank configured to hold liquid, wherein the cleaning tank is configured to rotate; and a vacuum head facing toward the cleaning tank, wherein the vacuum head is configured to move between a first position and a second position, wherein at the first position, a wafer picked up by the vacuum head is fully out of a solution in the cleaning tank, and at the second position, the wafer is fully submerged in the solution. 16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the cleaning tank has a whipping-top shape, wherein from a top to a bottom of the cleaning tank, diameters of the cleaning tank gradually reduce, and wherein tilted edges of the cleaning tank connecting the top to the bottom of the cleaning tank are curved. 17. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the cleaning tank has a cone shape, wherein from a top to a bottom of the cleaning tank, diameters of the cleaning tank gradually reduce, and wherein tilted edges of the cleaning tank connecting the top to the bottom of the cleaning tank are straight. 18. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the cleaning tank has a cylinder shape, with a top end and a bottom end of the cleaning tank having a same diameter. 19. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the cleaning tank comprises an outlet at a bottom of the cleaning tank, and wherein the apparatus further comprises a pipe connected to the outlet. 20. The apparatus of claim 15 further comprising a driving mechanism configured to rotate the cleaning tank at a speed between about 5,000 Rotations per Minute (RPM) and about 40,000 RPM. | 1,700 |
4,017 | 14,172,043 | 1,797 | A diabetes management system includes a handheld medical device, a mobile computing device, and a diabetes management application. The handheld medical device is configured to determine, in response to a port receiving a test strip, whether an auto-send feature is enabled on the handheld medical device, determine whether the handheld medical device is paired with a mobile computing device, and selectively instruct a wireless transceiver to establish a wireless connection and communicate a glucose measurement and identifying information to the mobile computing device. The mobile computing device is configured to execute the diabetes management application. The diabetes management application is configured to process a plurality of glucose measurements and identifying information associated with each of a plurality of glucose measurements. | 1. A diabetes management system comprising:
a handheld medical device that includes:
a port configured to receive a test strip having a reaction site for receiving a sample of fluid from a patient;
a blood glucose (bG) meter, cooperatively operable with a test strip inserted in the port, configured to measure glucose in a sample of fluid residing in the test strip and associate identifying information with the glucose measurement;
a wireless transceiver cooperatively operable with the bG meter to communicate the glucose measurement and the identifying information via a wireless data link;
a user interface that selectively instructs the handheld medical device to initiate a pairing procedure in response to input received from a user and that displays a unique identifier associated with the handheld medical device; and
a first processor configured to:
determine, in response to the port receiving a test strip, whether an auto-send feature is enabled on the handheld medical device;
determine whether the handheld medical device is paired with a mobile computing device; and
selectively instruct the wireless transceiver to establish a wireless connection and communicate the glucose measurement and the identifying information in response to the determination of whether the auto-send feature is enabled and the determination of whether the handheld medical device is paired with a mobile computing device;
a mobile computing device comprising a second processor configured to execute a diabetes management application stored on an associated memory, the diabetes management application is configured to process a plurality of glucose measurements and identifying information associated with each of the plurality of glucose measurements and to display, on a user display of the mobile computing device, a message indicative of at least one glucose measurement. 2. The diabetes management system of claim 1 wherein the diabetes management application is displays, on the user display of the mobile computing device, a list of proximally located wireless devices. 3. The diabetes management system of claim 2 wherein the diabetes management application receives, via input from the user, the unique identifier. 4. The diabetes management system of claim 2 wherein the diabetes management application pairs the mobile computing device to the handheld medical device in response to receiving the unique identifier. 5. The diabetes management system of claim 4 wherein the diabetes management application enables the auto-send feature on the handheld medical device in response to the user selecting the auto-send feature on the mobile computing device. 6. The diabetes management system of claim 5 wherein the diabetes management application stores the glucose measurement and identifying information on the associated memory within the mobile computing device. 7. The diabetes management system of claim 1 wherein the first processor does not instruct the wireless transceiver to establish a wireless connection in response to the auto-send feature being disabled. 8. The diabetes management system of claim 1 wherein the first processor determines whether the handheld medical device is paired with a mobile computing device in response to the auto-send feature being enabled. 9. The diabetes management system of claim 1 wherein the first processor selectively instructs the wireless transceiver to establish a wireless connection with the mobile computing device and to communicate the glucose measurement and the identifying information in response to the auto-send feature being enabled and the handheld medical device being paired with a mobile computing device. 10. The diabetes management system of claim 1 wherein the diabetes management application compares the at least one glucose measurement to a first glucose threshold. 11. The diabetes management system of claim 10 wherein the diabetes management application displays, on the user display of the mobile computing device, a message indicating the at least one glucose measurement is high in response to the at least one glucose measurement being greater than the first glucose threshold. 12. The diabetes management system of claim 1 wherein the diabetes management application compares the at least one glucose measurement to a second glucose threshold. 13. The diabetes management system of claim 12 wherein the diabetes management application displays, on the user display of the mobile computing device, a message indicating the at least one glucose measurement is low in response to the at least one glucose measurement being less than the second glucose threshold. 14. A method for managing diabetes comprising:
receiving a test strip having a reaction site for receiving a sample of fluid from a patient; measuring glucose in a sample of fluid residing in the test strip and associate identifying information with the glucose measurement; selectively instructing a handheld medical device to initiate a pairing procedure in response to input received from a user; displaying a unique identifier associated with the handheld medical device; determining, in response to the handheld medical device receiving a test strip, whether an auto-send feature is enabled on the handheld medical device; determining whether the handheld medical device is paired with a mobile computing device; selectively instructing, in response to the determination of whether the auto-send feature is enabled and the determination of whether the handheld medical device is paired with a mobile computing device, the handheld medical device to establish a wireless connection and communicate the glucose measurement and the identifying information; processing a plurality of glucose measurements and identifying information associated with each of the plurality of glucose measurements; and displaying, on a user display of the mobile computing device, a message indicative of at least one glucose measurement. 15. The method for managing diabetes of claim 14 further comprising displaying, on the user display of the mobile computing device, a list of proximally located wireless devices and receiving, via input from the user, the unique identifier. 16. The method for managing diabetes of claim 15 further comprising paring the mobile computing device to the handheld medical device in response to receiving the unique identifier. 17. The method for managing diabetes of claim 16 further comprising enabling the auto-send feature on the handheld medical device in response to the user selecting the auto-send feature on the mobile computing device. 18. The method for managing diabetes of claim 14 further comprising instructing, in response to the auto-send feature being enabled and the handheld medical device being paired with a mobile computing device, the handheld medical device a wireless connection with the mobile computing device and to communicate the glucose measurement and the identifying information. 19. The method for managing diabetes of claim 14 further comprising comparing the at least one glucose measurement to a first glucose threshold and displaying, on the user display of the mobile computing device, a message indicating the at least one glucose measurement is high in response to the at least one glucose measurement being greater than the first glucose threshold. 20. The method for managing diabetes of claim 14 further comprising comparing the at least one glucose measurement to a second glucose threshold and displaying, on the user display of the mobile computing device, a message indicating the at least one glucose measurement is low in response to the at least one glucose measurement being greater than the second glucose threshold. | A diabetes management system includes a handheld medical device, a mobile computing device, and a diabetes management application. The handheld medical device is configured to determine, in response to a port receiving a test strip, whether an auto-send feature is enabled on the handheld medical device, determine whether the handheld medical device is paired with a mobile computing device, and selectively instruct a wireless transceiver to establish a wireless connection and communicate a glucose measurement and identifying information to the mobile computing device. The mobile computing device is configured to execute the diabetes management application. The diabetes management application is configured to process a plurality of glucose measurements and identifying information associated with each of a plurality of glucose measurements.1. A diabetes management system comprising:
a handheld medical device that includes:
a port configured to receive a test strip having a reaction site for receiving a sample of fluid from a patient;
a blood glucose (bG) meter, cooperatively operable with a test strip inserted in the port, configured to measure glucose in a sample of fluid residing in the test strip and associate identifying information with the glucose measurement;
a wireless transceiver cooperatively operable with the bG meter to communicate the glucose measurement and the identifying information via a wireless data link;
a user interface that selectively instructs the handheld medical device to initiate a pairing procedure in response to input received from a user and that displays a unique identifier associated with the handheld medical device; and
a first processor configured to:
determine, in response to the port receiving a test strip, whether an auto-send feature is enabled on the handheld medical device;
determine whether the handheld medical device is paired with a mobile computing device; and
selectively instruct the wireless transceiver to establish a wireless connection and communicate the glucose measurement and the identifying information in response to the determination of whether the auto-send feature is enabled and the determination of whether the handheld medical device is paired with a mobile computing device;
a mobile computing device comprising a second processor configured to execute a diabetes management application stored on an associated memory, the diabetes management application is configured to process a plurality of glucose measurements and identifying information associated with each of the plurality of glucose measurements and to display, on a user display of the mobile computing device, a message indicative of at least one glucose measurement. 2. The diabetes management system of claim 1 wherein the diabetes management application is displays, on the user display of the mobile computing device, a list of proximally located wireless devices. 3. The diabetes management system of claim 2 wherein the diabetes management application receives, via input from the user, the unique identifier. 4. The diabetes management system of claim 2 wherein the diabetes management application pairs the mobile computing device to the handheld medical device in response to receiving the unique identifier. 5. The diabetes management system of claim 4 wherein the diabetes management application enables the auto-send feature on the handheld medical device in response to the user selecting the auto-send feature on the mobile computing device. 6. The diabetes management system of claim 5 wherein the diabetes management application stores the glucose measurement and identifying information on the associated memory within the mobile computing device. 7. The diabetes management system of claim 1 wherein the first processor does not instruct the wireless transceiver to establish a wireless connection in response to the auto-send feature being disabled. 8. The diabetes management system of claim 1 wherein the first processor determines whether the handheld medical device is paired with a mobile computing device in response to the auto-send feature being enabled. 9. The diabetes management system of claim 1 wherein the first processor selectively instructs the wireless transceiver to establish a wireless connection with the mobile computing device and to communicate the glucose measurement and the identifying information in response to the auto-send feature being enabled and the handheld medical device being paired with a mobile computing device. 10. The diabetes management system of claim 1 wherein the diabetes management application compares the at least one glucose measurement to a first glucose threshold. 11. The diabetes management system of claim 10 wherein the diabetes management application displays, on the user display of the mobile computing device, a message indicating the at least one glucose measurement is high in response to the at least one glucose measurement being greater than the first glucose threshold. 12. The diabetes management system of claim 1 wherein the diabetes management application compares the at least one glucose measurement to a second glucose threshold. 13. The diabetes management system of claim 12 wherein the diabetes management application displays, on the user display of the mobile computing device, a message indicating the at least one glucose measurement is low in response to the at least one glucose measurement being less than the second glucose threshold. 14. A method for managing diabetes comprising:
receiving a test strip having a reaction site for receiving a sample of fluid from a patient; measuring glucose in a sample of fluid residing in the test strip and associate identifying information with the glucose measurement; selectively instructing a handheld medical device to initiate a pairing procedure in response to input received from a user; displaying a unique identifier associated with the handheld medical device; determining, in response to the handheld medical device receiving a test strip, whether an auto-send feature is enabled on the handheld medical device; determining whether the handheld medical device is paired with a mobile computing device; selectively instructing, in response to the determination of whether the auto-send feature is enabled and the determination of whether the handheld medical device is paired with a mobile computing device, the handheld medical device to establish a wireless connection and communicate the glucose measurement and the identifying information; processing a plurality of glucose measurements and identifying information associated with each of the plurality of glucose measurements; and displaying, on a user display of the mobile computing device, a message indicative of at least one glucose measurement. 15. The method for managing diabetes of claim 14 further comprising displaying, on the user display of the mobile computing device, a list of proximally located wireless devices and receiving, via input from the user, the unique identifier. 16. The method for managing diabetes of claim 15 further comprising paring the mobile computing device to the handheld medical device in response to receiving the unique identifier. 17. The method for managing diabetes of claim 16 further comprising enabling the auto-send feature on the handheld medical device in response to the user selecting the auto-send feature on the mobile computing device. 18. The method for managing diabetes of claim 14 further comprising instructing, in response to the auto-send feature being enabled and the handheld medical device being paired with a mobile computing device, the handheld medical device a wireless connection with the mobile computing device and to communicate the glucose measurement and the identifying information. 19. The method for managing diabetes of claim 14 further comprising comparing the at least one glucose measurement to a first glucose threshold and displaying, on the user display of the mobile computing device, a message indicating the at least one glucose measurement is high in response to the at least one glucose measurement being greater than the first glucose threshold. 20. The method for managing diabetes of claim 14 further comprising comparing the at least one glucose measurement to a second glucose threshold and displaying, on the user display of the mobile computing device, a message indicating the at least one glucose measurement is low in response to the at least one glucose measurement being greater than the second glucose threshold. | 1,700 |
4,018 | 14,655,013 | 1,779 | The present technology is generally directed to vent stack lids and associated systems and methods. In particular, several embodiments are directed to vent stack lids having improved sealing properties in a coke processing system. In a particular embodiment, a vent stack lid comprises a first lid portion proximate to and at least partially spaced apart from a second lid portion. The vent stack lid further comprises a first sealing portion coupled to the first lid portion and a second sealing portion coupled to the second lid portion. In several embodiments, the second sealing portion at least partially overlaps the first sealing portion over the space between the first and second lid portions. In further embodiments, at least one of the first or second sealing portions includes layers of tadpole seals, spring seals, rigid refractory material, and/or flexible refractory blanket. | 1. A vent stack lid, comprising:
a first lid portion proximate to and at least partially spaced apart from a second lid portion; a first sealing portion coupled to the first lid portion; and a second sealing portion coupled to the second lid portion, wherein the second sealing portion at least partially overlaps the first sealing portion over the space between the first and second lid portions. 2. The vent stack lid of claim 1 wherein the first sealing portion comprises a first tadpole seal and the second sealing portion comprises a second tadpole seal, and wherein the first tadpole seal and second tadpole seal are in adjacent contact and are substantially positioned in the space between the first and second lid portions. 3. The vent stack lid of claim 1 wherein the first sealing portion comprises a first spring seal and the second sealing portion comprises a second spring seal, and wherein the first spring seal and second spring seal are in adjacent contact and are positioned above the space between the first and second lid portions. 4. The vent stack lid of claim 3 wherein the first spring seal and second spring seal are laterally offset from the space between the first lid portion and second lid portion. 5. The vent stack lid of claim 1 wherein at least one of the first sealing portion or second sealing portion comprises a generally flexible, heat-resistant blanket. 6. The vent stack lid of claim 1 wherein at least one of the first sealing portion or second sealing portion comprises a generally rigid refractory material. 7. The vent stack lid of claim 1 wherein the first lid portion and the second lid portion are individually pivotably movable between a closed configuration and an open configuration. 8. The vent stack lid of claim 1 wherein the second sealing portion is pivotably or slidably coupled to the second lid portion. 9. The vent stack lid of claim 1 wherein at least one of the first sealing portion and second sealing portion comprise a generally rigid framework made of stainless steel, ceramic, or refractory material. 10. A vent stack system, comprising:
a lid comprising a first lid portion at least partially spaced apart from a second lid portion; and a sealing system coupled to at least one of the first lid portion or the second lid portion and at least partially positioned in or over the space between the first lid portion and the second lid portion, the sealing system comprising a plurality of layers of materials, wherein at least two individual layers have different rigidity, hardness, or permeability properties from one another. 11. The vent stack system of claim 10 wherein at least two layers overlap the space between the first lid portion and the second lid portion. 12. The vent stack system of claim 10 wherein at least one layer comprises a tadpole seal, a spring seal, cast refractory, or a thermal blanket. 13. The vent stack system of claim 10 wherein the plurality of layers comprises a generally flexible material adjacent to a generally rigid material. 14. The vent stack system of claim 10 wherein the sealing system comprises a fastener configured to allow pivoting or sliding movement of at least a portion of the sealing system relative to the first lid portion. 15. A method of sealing a vent stack, the method comprising:
positioning a generally flexible, heat-resistant material in or proximate to a space between a first vent stack lid portion and a second vent stack lid portion; positioning a generally rigid, heat-resistant material adjacent to the generally flexible material; and inhibiting gas from traversing the space between the first lid portion and the second lid portion. 16. The method of claim 15 wherein the first lid portion comprises a top portion and a sidewall portion, and wherein positioning the generally flexible, heat-resistant material comprises positioning the generally flexible, heat-resistant material along at least one of the top portion or the sidewall portion. 17. The method of claim 15, further comprising positioning a plurality of tadpole seals in the space between the first lid portion and the second lid portion. 18. The method of claim 17, further comprising overlapping the tadpole seals with at least one of the generally flexible, heat resistant material or the generally rigid, heat-resistant material. 19. The method of claim 15 wherein positioning the generally flexible, heat-resistant material comprises pivoting or sliding the material into the space between the first vent stack lid portion and the second vent stack lid portion. 20. The method of claim 15, further comprising positioning a plurality of spring seals above the space between the first vent stack lid portion and the second vent stack lid portion. | The present technology is generally directed to vent stack lids and associated systems and methods. In particular, several embodiments are directed to vent stack lids having improved sealing properties in a coke processing system. In a particular embodiment, a vent stack lid comprises a first lid portion proximate to and at least partially spaced apart from a second lid portion. The vent stack lid further comprises a first sealing portion coupled to the first lid portion and a second sealing portion coupled to the second lid portion. In several embodiments, the second sealing portion at least partially overlaps the first sealing portion over the space between the first and second lid portions. In further embodiments, at least one of the first or second sealing portions includes layers of tadpole seals, spring seals, rigid refractory material, and/or flexible refractory blanket.1. A vent stack lid, comprising:
a first lid portion proximate to and at least partially spaced apart from a second lid portion; a first sealing portion coupled to the first lid portion; and a second sealing portion coupled to the second lid portion, wherein the second sealing portion at least partially overlaps the first sealing portion over the space between the first and second lid portions. 2. The vent stack lid of claim 1 wherein the first sealing portion comprises a first tadpole seal and the second sealing portion comprises a second tadpole seal, and wherein the first tadpole seal and second tadpole seal are in adjacent contact and are substantially positioned in the space between the first and second lid portions. 3. The vent stack lid of claim 1 wherein the first sealing portion comprises a first spring seal and the second sealing portion comprises a second spring seal, and wherein the first spring seal and second spring seal are in adjacent contact and are positioned above the space between the first and second lid portions. 4. The vent stack lid of claim 3 wherein the first spring seal and second spring seal are laterally offset from the space between the first lid portion and second lid portion. 5. The vent stack lid of claim 1 wherein at least one of the first sealing portion or second sealing portion comprises a generally flexible, heat-resistant blanket. 6. The vent stack lid of claim 1 wherein at least one of the first sealing portion or second sealing portion comprises a generally rigid refractory material. 7. The vent stack lid of claim 1 wherein the first lid portion and the second lid portion are individually pivotably movable between a closed configuration and an open configuration. 8. The vent stack lid of claim 1 wherein the second sealing portion is pivotably or slidably coupled to the second lid portion. 9. The vent stack lid of claim 1 wherein at least one of the first sealing portion and second sealing portion comprise a generally rigid framework made of stainless steel, ceramic, or refractory material. 10. A vent stack system, comprising:
a lid comprising a first lid portion at least partially spaced apart from a second lid portion; and a sealing system coupled to at least one of the first lid portion or the second lid portion and at least partially positioned in or over the space between the first lid portion and the second lid portion, the sealing system comprising a plurality of layers of materials, wherein at least two individual layers have different rigidity, hardness, or permeability properties from one another. 11. The vent stack system of claim 10 wherein at least two layers overlap the space between the first lid portion and the second lid portion. 12. The vent stack system of claim 10 wherein at least one layer comprises a tadpole seal, a spring seal, cast refractory, or a thermal blanket. 13. The vent stack system of claim 10 wherein the plurality of layers comprises a generally flexible material adjacent to a generally rigid material. 14. The vent stack system of claim 10 wherein the sealing system comprises a fastener configured to allow pivoting or sliding movement of at least a portion of the sealing system relative to the first lid portion. 15. A method of sealing a vent stack, the method comprising:
positioning a generally flexible, heat-resistant material in or proximate to a space between a first vent stack lid portion and a second vent stack lid portion; positioning a generally rigid, heat-resistant material adjacent to the generally flexible material; and inhibiting gas from traversing the space between the first lid portion and the second lid portion. 16. The method of claim 15 wherein the first lid portion comprises a top portion and a sidewall portion, and wherein positioning the generally flexible, heat-resistant material comprises positioning the generally flexible, heat-resistant material along at least one of the top portion or the sidewall portion. 17. The method of claim 15, further comprising positioning a plurality of tadpole seals in the space between the first lid portion and the second lid portion. 18. The method of claim 17, further comprising overlapping the tadpole seals with at least one of the generally flexible, heat resistant material or the generally rigid, heat-resistant material. 19. The method of claim 15 wherein positioning the generally flexible, heat-resistant material comprises pivoting or sliding the material into the space between the first vent stack lid portion and the second vent stack lid portion. 20. The method of claim 15, further comprising positioning a plurality of spring seals above the space between the first vent stack lid portion and the second vent stack lid portion. | 1,700 |
4,019 | 15,077,670 | 1,791 | A method and composition for providing hydrolyzed starch and fiber. In one aspect, the method comprises providing a first enzyme; a second enzyme; water; and a starting composition comprising at least one material selected from the group consisting of at least a portion of grain and at least a portion of pulse. Additional steps comprise hydrolyzing the fiber and starch in the at least one material through fiber and starch hydrolysis reactions catalyzed by the first and second enzymes, respectively. Further steps comprise deactivating the first and second enzymes. In a second aspect, a composition comprises at least one material selected from the group consisting of at least a portion of grain and at least a portion of pulse. The average molecular weights of the hydrolyzed starch and fiber molecules in the composition are fractions of the molecular weights of unhydrolyzed starch and fiber molecules, respectively. | 1. A composition comprising:
at least one material selected from the group consisting of at least a portion of grain and at least a portion of pulse; wherein the at least one material comprises hydrolyzed starch and hydrolyzed fiber; wherein the hydrolyzed starch consists of starch molecules; wherein the average molecular weight of the hydrolyzed starch molecules in the composition is a first fraction of the molecular weight of unhydrolyzed starch molecules; wherein the unhydrolyzed starch molecules are equivalent in kind and condition to the hydrolyzed starch molecules, except that the unhydrolyzed starch molecules have not been hydrolyzed; wherein the first fraction is no more than about 0.80; wherein the hydrolyzed fiber consists of fiber molecules; and wherein the average molecular weight of the hydrolyzed fiber molecules in the composition is a second fraction of the molecular weight of unhydrolyzed fiber molecules; wherein the unhydrolyzed fiber molecules are equivalent in kind and condition to the hydrolyzed fiber molecules, except that the unhydrolyzed fiber molecules have not been hydrolyzed; wherein the second fraction is no more than about 0.80. 2. The composition of claim 1:
wherein the at least one material is hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber whole grain comprising hydrolyzed starch and hydrolyzed fiber; and wherein the hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber whole grain has within a tolerance of +/−20% the same mass ratio of starch to protein as unhydrolyzed whole grain equivalent in kind and condition to the hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber whole grain, except that the unhydrolyzed whole grain has not been hydrolyzed. 3. The composition of claim 1:
wherein the at least one material is hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber whole grain comprising hydrolyzed starch and hydrolyzed fiber; and wherein the hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber whole grain has a mass ratio selected from the group of mass ratios consisting of:
a mass ratio of fiber to protein equal, within a tolerance of +/−20%, to a mass ratio of fiber to protein of unhydrolyzed whole grain equivalent in kind and condition to the hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber whole grain, except that the unhydrolyzed whole grain has not been hydrolyzed;
a mass ratio of fat to protein equal, within a tolerance of +/−20%, to a mass ratio of fat to protein of unhydrolyzed whole grain equivalent in kind and condition to the hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber whole grain, except that the unhydrolyzed whole grain has not been hydrolyzed;
a mass ratio of starch to protein equal, within a tolerance of +/−20%, to a mass ratio of starch to protein of unhydrolyzed whole grain equivalent in kind and condition to the hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber whole grain, except that the unhydrolyzed whole grain has not been hydrolyzed; and
any combination thereof. 4. The composition of claim 1:
wherein the at least one material is hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber pulse comprising hydrolyzed starch and hydrolyzed fiber; and wherein the hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber pulse has, within a tolerance of +/−30% the same mass ratio of starch to protein as unhydrolyzed pulse equivalent in kind and condition to the hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber pulse, except that the unhydrolyzed pulse has not been hydrolyzed. 5. The composition of claim 1:
wherein the hydrolyzed starch molecules have an average molecular weight of no more than about 3.4×106 Dalton. 6. The composition of claim 1:
wherein the hydrolyzed fiber molecules have an average molecular weight of no more than about 700,000 Dalton. 7. The composition of claim 1:
wherein the at least one material is hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber bran composition comprising hydrolyzed starch and hydrolyzed fiber; and wherein the hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber bran composition has within a tolerance of +/−20% the same mass ratio of starch to protein as an unhydrolyzed bran composition equivalent in kind and condition to the hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber bran composition, except that the unhydrolyzed bran composition has not been hydrolyzed. 8. The composition of claim 1:
wherein the at least one material is hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber bran comprising hydrolyzed starch and hydrolyzed fiber; and wherein the hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber bran has a mass ratio selected from the group of mass ratios consisting of:
a mass ratio of fiber to protein equal, within a tolerance of +/−20%, to a mass ratio of fiber to protein of unhydrolyzed bran equivalent in kind and condition to the hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber bran, except that the unhydrolyzed bran has not been hydrolyzed;
a mass ratio of fat to protein equal, within a tolerance of +/−20%, to a mass ratio of fat to protein of unhydrolyzed bran equivalent in kind and condition to the hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber bran, except that the unhydrolyzed bran has not been hydrolyzed;
a mass ratio of starch to protein equal, within a tolerance of +/−20%, to a mass ratio of starch to protein of unhydrolyzed bran equivalent in kind and condition to the hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber bran, except that the unhydrolyzed bran has not been hydrolyzed; and
any combination thereof. 9. The composition of claim 7:
wherein the hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber bran composition is oat bran; wherein the oat bran comprises:
at least about 5.5 wt. % beta-glucan on a total dry weight basis;
at least about 16.0 wt. % dietary fiber on a total dry weight basis; and
wherein at least one-third of the total dietary fiber is soluble fiber. 10. The composition of claim 7:
wherein the hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber bran composition is oat bran concentrate; wherein the oat bran concentrate comprises:
at least about 10 wt. % beta-glucan on a total dry weight basis;
at least about 29.1 wt. % dietary fiber on a total dry weight basis; and
wherein at least one-third of the total dietary fiber is soluble fiber. 11. The composition of claim 1:
wherein the composition is a powder. 12. The composition of claim 1:
wherein the composition comprises a liquid; and wherein the at least one material is fully hydrated by the liquid and suspended in the liquid to form a suspension. 13. The composition of claim 12:
wherein the composition comprises at least 6 wt. % of the at least one material. 14. The composition of claim 1:
wherein the composition comprises a liquid; and wherein the liquid is a water-based liquid selected from the group consisting of water, mammalian milk, soy milk, grain milk, nut milk, coconut milk, fruit juice, and vegetable juice. 15. The composition of claim 1:
wherein the composition comprises a powder hydrated by a water-based liquid, wherein the powder consists of powder particles; wherein the powder particles have an average particle size equal to about 50-200 microns on a volume-weighted basis; wherein the particle size is the diameter of a sphere that would provide the same laser diffraction measurements as the particle. 16. The composition of claim 1:
wherein the at least one material comprises the at least a portion of grain; and wherein the grain is selected from the group consisting of wheat, oat, barley, corn, white rice, brown rice, barley, millet, sorghum, rye, triticale, teff, spelt, buckwheat, quinoa, amaranth, kaniwa, cockscomb, green groat and combinations thereof. 17. The composition of claim 1:
wherein the at least one material comprises the at least a portion of pulse; and wherein the pulse is selected from the group consisting of peas, lentils, chickpeas, navy beans, black turtle beans, cranberry beans, kidney beans, pinto beans, small red beans, Dutch brown beans, pink beans and combinations thereof. 18. The composition of claim 1:
wherein the composition comprises at least two enzymes. 19. The composition of claim 1:
wherein the hydrolyzed fiber comprises insoluble fiber molecules; wherein the insoluble fiber molecules have an average molecular weight equal to no more than about 1,000,000 Dalton. 20. The composition of claim 1:
wherein the composition is food grade. 21. The composition of claim 1: wherein the composition is a first composition comprising an RVA peak viscosity that is at most 75% of an RVA peak viscosity of a second composition;
wherein the first composition consists of each ingredient in a first set of ingredients at a specified weight percentage, and the first set of ingredients comprises the at least a portion of pulse, the at least a portion of grain, and water; wherein the second composition consists of the first set of ingredients in the specified weight percentages, except that the at least a portion of pulse comprising hydrolyzed starch is replaced with at least a portion of pulse comprising unhydrolyzed starch, and except that the at least a portion of grain comprising hydrolyzed starch is replaced with at least a portion of grain comprising unhydrolyzed starch. 22. A method comprising the steps:
providing starting components comprising:
a first enzyme;
a second enzyme;
water; and
a starting composition, wherein the starting composition comprises at least one material selected from the group consisting of at least a portion of grain and at least a portion of pulse, wherein the at least one material comprises starch and fiber;
hydrolyzing the fiber in the at least one material through a fiber hydrolysis reaction, wherein the fiber hydrolysis reaction is catalyzed by the first enzyme; hydrolyzing the starch in the at least one material through a starch hydrolysis reaction, wherein the starch hydrolysis reaction is catalyzed by the second enzyme; deactivating the first enzyme; and deactivating the second enzyme; wherein the method provides a product composition. 23. The method of claim 22 further comprising:
preconditioning the starting components by combining the first enzyme, the second enzyme, the water, and the starting composition in a preconditioner, thereby providing a preconditioned mixture. 24. The method of claim 23 further comprising:
extruding the preconditioned mixture, thereby providing an extruded mixture. 25. The method of claim 24 further comprising:
pelletizing the extruded mixture to provide a pelletized mixture. 26. The method of claim 25:
drying the pelletized mixture to provide a dried mixture. 27. The method of claim 26:
grinding the dried mixture to provide a powder. 28. The method of claim 22 further comprising:
preconditioning the starting components to provide a preconditioned mixture with a wet mix temperature selected from the group consisting of about 54.4° C. to about 76.7° C., about 60.0° C. to about 71.1° C., and about 62.8° C. 29. The method of claim 22 further comprising:
preconditioning the starting components to provide a preconditioned mixture with a selected weight percentage of water, wherein the selected weight percentage of water is selected from the group consisting of about 28 wt. % to about 37 wt. %, about 30 wt. % to about 34 wt. %, and about 32 wt. %. 30. The method of claim 22 further comprising:
heating the preconditioned mixture to deactivate the first enzyme, activate the second enzyme, and deactivate the second enzyme. 31. The method of claim 30:
wherein the heating step occurs while extruding the preconditioned mixture to provide an extruded mixture; and wherein, upon termination of the extruding, the extruded mixture is provided at a post-extrusion temperature selected from the group consisting of about 140° C. to about 151° C., about 142° C. to about 149° C., and about 146° C. 32. The method of claim 22:
wherein the first enzyme is endo-cellulase. 33. The method of claim 22:
wherein the second enzyme is a relatively high temperature enzyme; wherein the first enzyme is a relatively low temperature enzyme; and wherein the first enzyme has an optimum-activity temperature range that is lower than the optimum-activity temperature range of the second enzyme. 34. The method of claim 22:
wherein the fiber comprises cellulose; wherein the first enzyme reduces the molecular weight of the cellulose in the starting composition to provide cellulose in the product composition with a reduced average molecular weight. 35. The method of claim 24:
wherein the starch hydrolysis reaction and the fiber hydrolysis reaction occur during the extruding. 36. The method of claim 24:
wherein the fiber hydrolysis reaction occurs during the preconditioning. 37. The method of claim 24:
wherein the fiber hydrolysis reaction ends during the extruding. 38. The method of claim 24:
wherein a reaction rate of the starch hydrolysis reaction is fastest during the extruding. 39. The method of claim 24:
wherein the starch hydrolysis reaction ends during the extruding. 40. The method of claim 24 further comprising:
wherein the preconditioning and the extruding together have a duration equal to a maximum of about 5 minutes. 41. The method of claim 22:
wherein the starch hydrolysis reaction is stopped before converting more than about 10 wt. % of the starch to monosaccharides and disaccharides. 42. The method of claim 22 further comprising:
wherein the fiber hydrolysis reaction is stopped before converting more than about 10 wt. % of the fiber to monosaccharides and disaccharides. 43. The method of claim 22:
wherein the water comprises liquid water and steam. 44. The method of claim 24:
wherein the extruding step occurs in an extruder comprising:
forward blocks of conveyors; and
reverse blocks of the conveyors. | A method and composition for providing hydrolyzed starch and fiber. In one aspect, the method comprises providing a first enzyme; a second enzyme; water; and a starting composition comprising at least one material selected from the group consisting of at least a portion of grain and at least a portion of pulse. Additional steps comprise hydrolyzing the fiber and starch in the at least one material through fiber and starch hydrolysis reactions catalyzed by the first and second enzymes, respectively. Further steps comprise deactivating the first and second enzymes. In a second aspect, a composition comprises at least one material selected from the group consisting of at least a portion of grain and at least a portion of pulse. The average molecular weights of the hydrolyzed starch and fiber molecules in the composition are fractions of the molecular weights of unhydrolyzed starch and fiber molecules, respectively.1. A composition comprising:
at least one material selected from the group consisting of at least a portion of grain and at least a portion of pulse; wherein the at least one material comprises hydrolyzed starch and hydrolyzed fiber; wherein the hydrolyzed starch consists of starch molecules; wherein the average molecular weight of the hydrolyzed starch molecules in the composition is a first fraction of the molecular weight of unhydrolyzed starch molecules; wherein the unhydrolyzed starch molecules are equivalent in kind and condition to the hydrolyzed starch molecules, except that the unhydrolyzed starch molecules have not been hydrolyzed; wherein the first fraction is no more than about 0.80; wherein the hydrolyzed fiber consists of fiber molecules; and wherein the average molecular weight of the hydrolyzed fiber molecules in the composition is a second fraction of the molecular weight of unhydrolyzed fiber molecules; wherein the unhydrolyzed fiber molecules are equivalent in kind and condition to the hydrolyzed fiber molecules, except that the unhydrolyzed fiber molecules have not been hydrolyzed; wherein the second fraction is no more than about 0.80. 2. The composition of claim 1:
wherein the at least one material is hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber whole grain comprising hydrolyzed starch and hydrolyzed fiber; and wherein the hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber whole grain has within a tolerance of +/−20% the same mass ratio of starch to protein as unhydrolyzed whole grain equivalent in kind and condition to the hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber whole grain, except that the unhydrolyzed whole grain has not been hydrolyzed. 3. The composition of claim 1:
wherein the at least one material is hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber whole grain comprising hydrolyzed starch and hydrolyzed fiber; and wherein the hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber whole grain has a mass ratio selected from the group of mass ratios consisting of:
a mass ratio of fiber to protein equal, within a tolerance of +/−20%, to a mass ratio of fiber to protein of unhydrolyzed whole grain equivalent in kind and condition to the hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber whole grain, except that the unhydrolyzed whole grain has not been hydrolyzed;
a mass ratio of fat to protein equal, within a tolerance of +/−20%, to a mass ratio of fat to protein of unhydrolyzed whole grain equivalent in kind and condition to the hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber whole grain, except that the unhydrolyzed whole grain has not been hydrolyzed;
a mass ratio of starch to protein equal, within a tolerance of +/−20%, to a mass ratio of starch to protein of unhydrolyzed whole grain equivalent in kind and condition to the hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber whole grain, except that the unhydrolyzed whole grain has not been hydrolyzed; and
any combination thereof. 4. The composition of claim 1:
wherein the at least one material is hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber pulse comprising hydrolyzed starch and hydrolyzed fiber; and wherein the hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber pulse has, within a tolerance of +/−30% the same mass ratio of starch to protein as unhydrolyzed pulse equivalent in kind and condition to the hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber pulse, except that the unhydrolyzed pulse has not been hydrolyzed. 5. The composition of claim 1:
wherein the hydrolyzed starch molecules have an average molecular weight of no more than about 3.4×106 Dalton. 6. The composition of claim 1:
wherein the hydrolyzed fiber molecules have an average molecular weight of no more than about 700,000 Dalton. 7. The composition of claim 1:
wherein the at least one material is hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber bran composition comprising hydrolyzed starch and hydrolyzed fiber; and wherein the hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber bran composition has within a tolerance of +/−20% the same mass ratio of starch to protein as an unhydrolyzed bran composition equivalent in kind and condition to the hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber bran composition, except that the unhydrolyzed bran composition has not been hydrolyzed. 8. The composition of claim 1:
wherein the at least one material is hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber bran comprising hydrolyzed starch and hydrolyzed fiber; and wherein the hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber bran has a mass ratio selected from the group of mass ratios consisting of:
a mass ratio of fiber to protein equal, within a tolerance of +/−20%, to a mass ratio of fiber to protein of unhydrolyzed bran equivalent in kind and condition to the hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber bran, except that the unhydrolyzed bran has not been hydrolyzed;
a mass ratio of fat to protein equal, within a tolerance of +/−20%, to a mass ratio of fat to protein of unhydrolyzed bran equivalent in kind and condition to the hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber bran, except that the unhydrolyzed bran has not been hydrolyzed;
a mass ratio of starch to protein equal, within a tolerance of +/−20%, to a mass ratio of starch to protein of unhydrolyzed bran equivalent in kind and condition to the hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber bran, except that the unhydrolyzed bran has not been hydrolyzed; and
any combination thereof. 9. The composition of claim 7:
wherein the hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber bran composition is oat bran; wherein the oat bran comprises:
at least about 5.5 wt. % beta-glucan on a total dry weight basis;
at least about 16.0 wt. % dietary fiber on a total dry weight basis; and
wherein at least one-third of the total dietary fiber is soluble fiber. 10. The composition of claim 7:
wherein the hydrolyzed-starch-and-fiber bran composition is oat bran concentrate; wherein the oat bran concentrate comprises:
at least about 10 wt. % beta-glucan on a total dry weight basis;
at least about 29.1 wt. % dietary fiber on a total dry weight basis; and
wherein at least one-third of the total dietary fiber is soluble fiber. 11. The composition of claim 1:
wherein the composition is a powder. 12. The composition of claim 1:
wherein the composition comprises a liquid; and wherein the at least one material is fully hydrated by the liquid and suspended in the liquid to form a suspension. 13. The composition of claim 12:
wherein the composition comprises at least 6 wt. % of the at least one material. 14. The composition of claim 1:
wherein the composition comprises a liquid; and wherein the liquid is a water-based liquid selected from the group consisting of water, mammalian milk, soy milk, grain milk, nut milk, coconut milk, fruit juice, and vegetable juice. 15. The composition of claim 1:
wherein the composition comprises a powder hydrated by a water-based liquid, wherein the powder consists of powder particles; wherein the powder particles have an average particle size equal to about 50-200 microns on a volume-weighted basis; wherein the particle size is the diameter of a sphere that would provide the same laser diffraction measurements as the particle. 16. The composition of claim 1:
wherein the at least one material comprises the at least a portion of grain; and wherein the grain is selected from the group consisting of wheat, oat, barley, corn, white rice, brown rice, barley, millet, sorghum, rye, triticale, teff, spelt, buckwheat, quinoa, amaranth, kaniwa, cockscomb, green groat and combinations thereof. 17. The composition of claim 1:
wherein the at least one material comprises the at least a portion of pulse; and wherein the pulse is selected from the group consisting of peas, lentils, chickpeas, navy beans, black turtle beans, cranberry beans, kidney beans, pinto beans, small red beans, Dutch brown beans, pink beans and combinations thereof. 18. The composition of claim 1:
wherein the composition comprises at least two enzymes. 19. The composition of claim 1:
wherein the hydrolyzed fiber comprises insoluble fiber molecules; wherein the insoluble fiber molecules have an average molecular weight equal to no more than about 1,000,000 Dalton. 20. The composition of claim 1:
wherein the composition is food grade. 21. The composition of claim 1: wherein the composition is a first composition comprising an RVA peak viscosity that is at most 75% of an RVA peak viscosity of a second composition;
wherein the first composition consists of each ingredient in a first set of ingredients at a specified weight percentage, and the first set of ingredients comprises the at least a portion of pulse, the at least a portion of grain, and water; wherein the second composition consists of the first set of ingredients in the specified weight percentages, except that the at least a portion of pulse comprising hydrolyzed starch is replaced with at least a portion of pulse comprising unhydrolyzed starch, and except that the at least a portion of grain comprising hydrolyzed starch is replaced with at least a portion of grain comprising unhydrolyzed starch. 22. A method comprising the steps:
providing starting components comprising:
a first enzyme;
a second enzyme;
water; and
a starting composition, wherein the starting composition comprises at least one material selected from the group consisting of at least a portion of grain and at least a portion of pulse, wherein the at least one material comprises starch and fiber;
hydrolyzing the fiber in the at least one material through a fiber hydrolysis reaction, wherein the fiber hydrolysis reaction is catalyzed by the first enzyme; hydrolyzing the starch in the at least one material through a starch hydrolysis reaction, wherein the starch hydrolysis reaction is catalyzed by the second enzyme; deactivating the first enzyme; and deactivating the second enzyme; wherein the method provides a product composition. 23. The method of claim 22 further comprising:
preconditioning the starting components by combining the first enzyme, the second enzyme, the water, and the starting composition in a preconditioner, thereby providing a preconditioned mixture. 24. The method of claim 23 further comprising:
extruding the preconditioned mixture, thereby providing an extruded mixture. 25. The method of claim 24 further comprising:
pelletizing the extruded mixture to provide a pelletized mixture. 26. The method of claim 25:
drying the pelletized mixture to provide a dried mixture. 27. The method of claim 26:
grinding the dried mixture to provide a powder. 28. The method of claim 22 further comprising:
preconditioning the starting components to provide a preconditioned mixture with a wet mix temperature selected from the group consisting of about 54.4° C. to about 76.7° C., about 60.0° C. to about 71.1° C., and about 62.8° C. 29. The method of claim 22 further comprising:
preconditioning the starting components to provide a preconditioned mixture with a selected weight percentage of water, wherein the selected weight percentage of water is selected from the group consisting of about 28 wt. % to about 37 wt. %, about 30 wt. % to about 34 wt. %, and about 32 wt. %. 30. The method of claim 22 further comprising:
heating the preconditioned mixture to deactivate the first enzyme, activate the second enzyme, and deactivate the second enzyme. 31. The method of claim 30:
wherein the heating step occurs while extruding the preconditioned mixture to provide an extruded mixture; and wherein, upon termination of the extruding, the extruded mixture is provided at a post-extrusion temperature selected from the group consisting of about 140° C. to about 151° C., about 142° C. to about 149° C., and about 146° C. 32. The method of claim 22:
wherein the first enzyme is endo-cellulase. 33. The method of claim 22:
wherein the second enzyme is a relatively high temperature enzyme; wherein the first enzyme is a relatively low temperature enzyme; and wherein the first enzyme has an optimum-activity temperature range that is lower than the optimum-activity temperature range of the second enzyme. 34. The method of claim 22:
wherein the fiber comprises cellulose; wherein the first enzyme reduces the molecular weight of the cellulose in the starting composition to provide cellulose in the product composition with a reduced average molecular weight. 35. The method of claim 24:
wherein the starch hydrolysis reaction and the fiber hydrolysis reaction occur during the extruding. 36. The method of claim 24:
wherein the fiber hydrolysis reaction occurs during the preconditioning. 37. The method of claim 24:
wherein the fiber hydrolysis reaction ends during the extruding. 38. The method of claim 24:
wherein a reaction rate of the starch hydrolysis reaction is fastest during the extruding. 39. The method of claim 24:
wherein the starch hydrolysis reaction ends during the extruding. 40. The method of claim 24 further comprising:
wherein the preconditioning and the extruding together have a duration equal to a maximum of about 5 minutes. 41. The method of claim 22:
wherein the starch hydrolysis reaction is stopped before converting more than about 10 wt. % of the starch to monosaccharides and disaccharides. 42. The method of claim 22 further comprising:
wherein the fiber hydrolysis reaction is stopped before converting more than about 10 wt. % of the fiber to monosaccharides and disaccharides. 43. The method of claim 22:
wherein the water comprises liquid water and steam. 44. The method of claim 24:
wherein the extruding step occurs in an extruder comprising:
forward blocks of conveyors; and
reverse blocks of the conveyors. | 1,700 |
4,020 | 15,376,176 | 1,712 | A formable trim strip for use in connection with drywall applications includes two or more layers, including a trim strip body and a backing paper. The trim strip body extends along a body axis and has a top surface and a bottom surface. The trim strip body comprises a polymer material. The backing paper includes a portion secured to the bottom surface of the trim strip body without an intervening layer of adhesive material. The trim strip body is coated onto the portion of the backing paper when a temperature of the trim strip body is within the melting point range such that the bottom surface of the trim strip body contacts the portion of the backing paper. As the trim strip body cools to a temperature below the melting point range, the portion of the backing paper bonds to the bottom surface of the trim strip body. | 1. A formable trim strip for use in connection with drywall applications, the formable trim strip comprising:
a trim strip body extending along a body axis and having a top surface and a bottom surface, the trim strip body comprising a polymer material; and a backing paper, wherein a portion of the backing paper is secured to the bottom surface of the trim strip body without an intervening layer of adhesive material, and wherein the trim strip body is coated onto the portion of the backing paper when a temperature of the trim strip body is within the melting point range such that the bottom surface of the trim strip body contacts the portion of the backing paper, and as the trim strip body cools to a temperature below the melting point range, the portion of the backing paper bonds to the bottom surface of the trim strip body. 2. The formable trim strip of claim 1, wherein the polymer has a melting point range between about 250° F. and about 400° F. 3. The formable trim strip of claim 1, wherein at least one forming feature extends along the trim strip body, the at least one forming feature extending along a forming feature axis, the at least one forming feature being configured to allow the trim strip body to be deformed about the forming feature axis. 4. The formable trim strip of claim 1, wherein the forming feature axis is parallel to the body axis. 5. The formable trim strip of claim 1, wherein the forming feature comprises a void in the trim strip body. 6. The formable trim strip of claim 1, wherein the at least one forming feature comprises a channel. 7. The formable trim strip of claim 6, wherein the channel has a generally rectangular cross-section, a generally 90-degree cross-section or a generally U-shaped cross-section. 8. The formable trim strip of claim 1, wherein a cross-sectional shape of the flexible trim strip is uniform from a first end of the flexible trim strip to a second end of the flexible trim strip. 9. The formable trim strip of claim 1, wherein the at least one forming feature comprises a plurality of forming features. 10. The formable trim strip of claim 9, wherein each one of the plurality of forming features extends parallel to the body axis. 11. The formable trim strip of claim 1, wherein a cross-section of the formable trim strip is symmetrical about the body axis. 12. A method of forming a formable trim strip for use in connection with drywall applications, the method comprising:
heating a polymer material to a temperature within its melting point range; advancing a backing paper positioned proximal to the polymer material; depositing the polymer material directly onto at least a portion of the backing paper to form a trim strip body having a top surface and a bottom surface, the bottom surface being in direct contact with the backing paper; allowing the trim strip body to cool to a temperature below the melting point range such that the portion of the backing paper bonds to the bottom surface of the trim strip body. 13. The method of claim 12, further comprising forming at least one forming feature along the top surface of the trim strip body, the at least one forming feature extending along a forming feature axis and being configured to allow the trim strip body to be deformed about the forming feature axis. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein forming the at least one forming feature occurs before the trim strip body is allowed to cool completely. 15. The method of claim 12, further comprising depositing an adhesive to the top surface of the trim strip body opposite the backing paper. 16. An assembly for forming a formable trim strip for use in connection with drywall applications, the assembly comprising:
a formable trim strip comprising a trim strip body having a top surface and a bottom surface, the trim strip body extending along a body axis and having a first cross-sectional shape normal to the body axis; a die comprising a first aperture having a second cross-sectional shape that is different than the first cross-sectional shape of the trim strip, the first aperture adapted to receive the formable trim strip such that the trim strip body is changed from having the first cross-sectional shape to a cross-sectional shape that corresponds to the second cross-sectional shape as the formable trim strip is displaced through the first aperture. 17. The assembly of claim 16, wherein the second cross-sectional shape comprises one of:
(a) a generally 90-degree cross-section; and (b) a generally bull-nosed cross-section. 18. The assembly of claim 16, wherein a backing paper is affixed to the bottom surface of the trim strip body by depositing the trim strip directly thereon, without an intervening layer of adhesive. 19. The assembly of claim 18, wherein the trim strip body comprises a polymer material having a melting point range between about 250° F. and about 400° F., and wherein the bottom surface of the trim strip body contacts a portion of the backing paper when a temperature of the trim strip body is within the melting point range, and as the trim strip body cools to a temperature below the melting point range, the portion of the backing paper bonds to the bottom surface of the trim strip body. 20. The assembly of claim 18, further comprising a heating element thermally coupled to the die. | A formable trim strip for use in connection with drywall applications includes two or more layers, including a trim strip body and a backing paper. The trim strip body extends along a body axis and has a top surface and a bottom surface. The trim strip body comprises a polymer material. The backing paper includes a portion secured to the bottom surface of the trim strip body without an intervening layer of adhesive material. The trim strip body is coated onto the portion of the backing paper when a temperature of the trim strip body is within the melting point range such that the bottom surface of the trim strip body contacts the portion of the backing paper. As the trim strip body cools to a temperature below the melting point range, the portion of the backing paper bonds to the bottom surface of the trim strip body.1. A formable trim strip for use in connection with drywall applications, the formable trim strip comprising:
a trim strip body extending along a body axis and having a top surface and a bottom surface, the trim strip body comprising a polymer material; and a backing paper, wherein a portion of the backing paper is secured to the bottom surface of the trim strip body without an intervening layer of adhesive material, and wherein the trim strip body is coated onto the portion of the backing paper when a temperature of the trim strip body is within the melting point range such that the bottom surface of the trim strip body contacts the portion of the backing paper, and as the trim strip body cools to a temperature below the melting point range, the portion of the backing paper bonds to the bottom surface of the trim strip body. 2. The formable trim strip of claim 1, wherein the polymer has a melting point range between about 250° F. and about 400° F. 3. The formable trim strip of claim 1, wherein at least one forming feature extends along the trim strip body, the at least one forming feature extending along a forming feature axis, the at least one forming feature being configured to allow the trim strip body to be deformed about the forming feature axis. 4. The formable trim strip of claim 1, wherein the forming feature axis is parallel to the body axis. 5. The formable trim strip of claim 1, wherein the forming feature comprises a void in the trim strip body. 6. The formable trim strip of claim 1, wherein the at least one forming feature comprises a channel. 7. The formable trim strip of claim 6, wherein the channel has a generally rectangular cross-section, a generally 90-degree cross-section or a generally U-shaped cross-section. 8. The formable trim strip of claim 1, wherein a cross-sectional shape of the flexible trim strip is uniform from a first end of the flexible trim strip to a second end of the flexible trim strip. 9. The formable trim strip of claim 1, wherein the at least one forming feature comprises a plurality of forming features. 10. The formable trim strip of claim 9, wherein each one of the plurality of forming features extends parallel to the body axis. 11. The formable trim strip of claim 1, wherein a cross-section of the formable trim strip is symmetrical about the body axis. 12. A method of forming a formable trim strip for use in connection with drywall applications, the method comprising:
heating a polymer material to a temperature within its melting point range; advancing a backing paper positioned proximal to the polymer material; depositing the polymer material directly onto at least a portion of the backing paper to form a trim strip body having a top surface and a bottom surface, the bottom surface being in direct contact with the backing paper; allowing the trim strip body to cool to a temperature below the melting point range such that the portion of the backing paper bonds to the bottom surface of the trim strip body. 13. The method of claim 12, further comprising forming at least one forming feature along the top surface of the trim strip body, the at least one forming feature extending along a forming feature axis and being configured to allow the trim strip body to be deformed about the forming feature axis. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein forming the at least one forming feature occurs before the trim strip body is allowed to cool completely. 15. The method of claim 12, further comprising depositing an adhesive to the top surface of the trim strip body opposite the backing paper. 16. An assembly for forming a formable trim strip for use in connection with drywall applications, the assembly comprising:
a formable trim strip comprising a trim strip body having a top surface and a bottom surface, the trim strip body extending along a body axis and having a first cross-sectional shape normal to the body axis; a die comprising a first aperture having a second cross-sectional shape that is different than the first cross-sectional shape of the trim strip, the first aperture adapted to receive the formable trim strip such that the trim strip body is changed from having the first cross-sectional shape to a cross-sectional shape that corresponds to the second cross-sectional shape as the formable trim strip is displaced through the first aperture. 17. The assembly of claim 16, wherein the second cross-sectional shape comprises one of:
(a) a generally 90-degree cross-section; and (b) a generally bull-nosed cross-section. 18. The assembly of claim 16, wherein a backing paper is affixed to the bottom surface of the trim strip body by depositing the trim strip directly thereon, without an intervening layer of adhesive. 19. The assembly of claim 18, wherein the trim strip body comprises a polymer material having a melting point range between about 250° F. and about 400° F., and wherein the bottom surface of the trim strip body contacts a portion of the backing paper when a temperature of the trim strip body is within the melting point range, and as the trim strip body cools to a temperature below the melting point range, the portion of the backing paper bonds to the bottom surface of the trim strip body. 20. The assembly of claim 18, further comprising a heating element thermally coupled to the die. | 1,700 |
4,021 | 15,348,136 | 1,712 | A method of forming an optical component includes depositing slurry that includes glass powder material onto a facesheet and fusing the glass powder material to a facesheet to form a first core material layer on the facesheet. The method also includes successively fusing glass powder material in a plurality of additional core material layers to build a core material structure on the facesheet. The method can include selectively depositing slurry including glass powder material over only a portion of at least one of the facesheet, the first core material layer, and/or the one of the additional core material layers. Depositing the slurry can include extruding the slurry from an extruder. | 1. A method of forming an optical component comprising:
depositing slurry including glass powder material onto a facesheet; fusing the glass powder material to the facesheet to form a first core material layer on the facesheet; and successively depositing and fusing glass powder material in at least one additional core material layer to build a core material structure on the facesheet. 2. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein at least one of depositing slurry including glass powder material and successively fusing glass powder material includes:
selectively depositing slurry including glass powder material over only a portion of at least one of the facesheet, the first core material layer, and/or the one of the additional core material layers. 3. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein depositing the slurry includes extruding the slurry from an extruder. 4. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein fusing glass powder material includes fusing low expansion glass powder into low expansion glass with a laser. 5. The method as recited in claim 4, wherein fusing glass powder material includes fusing low expansion titania-silica glass powder into low expansion titania-silica glass. 6. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein fusing glass powder material to a facesheet includes fusing glass powder material to a facesheet that is contoured for optical properties. 7. The method as recited in claim 1, further comprising positioning the facesheet on a mandrel prior to fusing glass powder material to the facesheet. 8. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein fusing glass powder material to the facesheet includes fusing the glass powder material to a polishable surface of the facesheet. 9. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein successively fusing glass powder material includes forming a mirror substrate. 10. The method as recited in claim 9, wherein forming a mirror substrate includes forming an optimal three-dimensional mirror topology that minimizes the mass of mirror substrate while providing a level of stiffness and stability above a predetermined minimum requirement. 11. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein successively fusing glass powder material includes varying material properties in successive layers. 12. An optical component comprising:
a glass facesheet; a first layer of low expansion glass fused to the glass facesheet; and at least one successively fused layer forming a core material structure on an assembly that includes the facesheet and the first layer. 13. The optical component as recited in claim 12, wherein the first layer and the at least one successively fused layer include fused low expansion glass powder material. 14. The optical component as recited in claim 13, wherein the fused low expansion glass powder material includes fused low expansion titania-silica glass powder. 15. The optical component as recited in claim 12, wherein the facesheet is contoured for optical properties in at least one of two-dimensions or three-dimensions. 16. The optical component as recited in claim 1, wherein the facesheet includes a polishable surface, wherein the first layer is fused to the polishable surface of the facesheet. 17. The optical component as recited in claim 1, wherein the facesheet, first layer, and successively fused layers form a mirror substrate. 18. The optical component as recited in claim 17, wherein the mirror substrate includes an optimal three-dimensional mirror topology that minimizes the mass of mirror substrate while providing a level of stiffness and stability above a predetermined minimum requirement. 19. The optical component as recited in claim 12, wherein the plurality of successively fused layers includes glass material with material properties that vary in successive layers. 20. The optical component as recited in claim 12, wherein the plurality of successively fused layers includes glass material with material properties that vary based on position within the core material structure. | A method of forming an optical component includes depositing slurry that includes glass powder material onto a facesheet and fusing the glass powder material to a facesheet to form a first core material layer on the facesheet. The method also includes successively fusing glass powder material in a plurality of additional core material layers to build a core material structure on the facesheet. The method can include selectively depositing slurry including glass powder material over only a portion of at least one of the facesheet, the first core material layer, and/or the one of the additional core material layers. Depositing the slurry can include extruding the slurry from an extruder.1. A method of forming an optical component comprising:
depositing slurry including glass powder material onto a facesheet; fusing the glass powder material to the facesheet to form a first core material layer on the facesheet; and successively depositing and fusing glass powder material in at least one additional core material layer to build a core material structure on the facesheet. 2. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein at least one of depositing slurry including glass powder material and successively fusing glass powder material includes:
selectively depositing slurry including glass powder material over only a portion of at least one of the facesheet, the first core material layer, and/or the one of the additional core material layers. 3. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein depositing the slurry includes extruding the slurry from an extruder. 4. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein fusing glass powder material includes fusing low expansion glass powder into low expansion glass with a laser. 5. The method as recited in claim 4, wherein fusing glass powder material includes fusing low expansion titania-silica glass powder into low expansion titania-silica glass. 6. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein fusing glass powder material to a facesheet includes fusing glass powder material to a facesheet that is contoured for optical properties. 7. The method as recited in claim 1, further comprising positioning the facesheet on a mandrel prior to fusing glass powder material to the facesheet. 8. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein fusing glass powder material to the facesheet includes fusing the glass powder material to a polishable surface of the facesheet. 9. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein successively fusing glass powder material includes forming a mirror substrate. 10. The method as recited in claim 9, wherein forming a mirror substrate includes forming an optimal three-dimensional mirror topology that minimizes the mass of mirror substrate while providing a level of stiffness and stability above a predetermined minimum requirement. 11. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein successively fusing glass powder material includes varying material properties in successive layers. 12. An optical component comprising:
a glass facesheet; a first layer of low expansion glass fused to the glass facesheet; and at least one successively fused layer forming a core material structure on an assembly that includes the facesheet and the first layer. 13. The optical component as recited in claim 12, wherein the first layer and the at least one successively fused layer include fused low expansion glass powder material. 14. The optical component as recited in claim 13, wherein the fused low expansion glass powder material includes fused low expansion titania-silica glass powder. 15. The optical component as recited in claim 12, wherein the facesheet is contoured for optical properties in at least one of two-dimensions or three-dimensions. 16. The optical component as recited in claim 1, wherein the facesheet includes a polishable surface, wherein the first layer is fused to the polishable surface of the facesheet. 17. The optical component as recited in claim 1, wherein the facesheet, first layer, and successively fused layers form a mirror substrate. 18. The optical component as recited in claim 17, wherein the mirror substrate includes an optimal three-dimensional mirror topology that minimizes the mass of mirror substrate while providing a level of stiffness and stability above a predetermined minimum requirement. 19. The optical component as recited in claim 12, wherein the plurality of successively fused layers includes glass material with material properties that vary in successive layers. 20. The optical component as recited in claim 12, wherein the plurality of successively fused layers includes glass material with material properties that vary based on position within the core material structure. | 1,700 |
4,022 | 14,939,029 | 1,787 | A bagging film includes two resins blended with a modifying agent. The first resin, making up about 60%-85% of the formulation, is a copolymer, polymer, elastomer, or combination thereof. The second resin, making up about 14%-39% of the formulation, is a different copolymer, polymer, elastomer, or combination thereof that is physically softer than the first resin. The modifying agent, making up about 0.25%-3.5% of the formulation, is compounded with the resin formulation such that the modifying agent creates a lubricant between the successive layers of the film. | 1. A film for bagging materials, the film having a formulation comprising:
a first resin present in an amount of about 74.01 percent of the formulation; a second resin present in an amount of about 24.49 percent of the formulation, the second resin being physically softer than the first resin; and a modifying agent present in an amount of about 1.5 percent of the formulation, the modifying agent configured to create a lubricant between successive layers of film formed by the formulation of the first and second resins, when the modifying agent is compounded with the formulation. 2. A film for bagging materials, the film having a formulation comprising:
a first resin present in an amount of from about 60 to about 85 percent of the formulation; a second resin present in an amount of from about 14 to about 39 percent of the formulation, the second resin being physically softer than the first resin; and a modifying agent being a lubricant between successive layers of film formed by the first and second resins. 3. The film of claim 2, wherein the first resin comprises one or more of a copolymer, a polymer, and an elastomer. 4. The film of claim 2, wherein the first resin is present in an amount of from about 70 to about 80 percent of the formulation. 5. The film of claim 4, wherein the first resin is present in an amount of about 74.01 percent of the formulation. 6. The film of claim 2, wherein the second resin comprises one or more of a copolymer, a polymer, and an elastomer. 7. The film of claim 2, wherein the second resin is present in an amount of from about 19 to about 30 percent of the formulation. 8. The film of claim 7, wherein the second resin is present in an amount of about 24.49 percent of the formulation. 9. The film of claim 2, wherein the first and second resins comprise different copolymer(s), polymer(s), and/or elastomer(s). 10. The film of claim 2, wherein the modifying agent is present in an amount of from about 0.25 to about 3.5 percent of the formulation. 11. The film of claim 10, wherein the modifying agent is present in an amount of from about 1.0 to about 2.0 percent weight of the formulation. 12. The film of claim 11, wherein the modifying agent is present in an amount of about 1.5 percent weight dose of the formulation. 13. The film of claim 2, wherein one or more of the first and second resins comprises about 10 to about 60 percent styrene. 14. The film of claim 13, wherein one or more of the first and second resins comprises about 30 percent styrene. 15. The film of claim 2, wherein the modifying agent is compounded with the first and second resins. 16. The film of claim 2, wherein one or more of the first and second resins has a melting point between about 60° C. to about 150° C. 17. The film of claim 2, wherein the first resin comprises a styrene-isoprene-styrene linear triblock copolymer with a polystyrene content of about 43 percent. 18. The film of claim 2, wherein the first resin has a melt index of about 45 g/10 min. at 200° C., 5 kg, and a specific gravity of about 0.92 g/cc. 19. The film of claim 2, wherein the second resin comprises a styrene-isoprene-styrene triblock copolymer with a polystyrene content of about 17 percent. 20. The film of claim 2, wherein the second resin has a hardness of about 33 Shore A (10s), a melt index of about 33 g/10 min. at 200° C., 5 kg, a styrene/rubber ratio of about 17/83, a tensile strength of about 1200 psi, an about 300 percent modulus of about 60 psi, an elongation at break of about 1300 percent, a specific gravity of about 0.92 g/cc, and a diblock content of about 33. 21. The film of claim 2, wherein the modifying agent comprises one or more of a slip agent, a blooming agent, and a flow modifier. 22. The film of claim 21, wherein the modifying agent comprises a long-chain fatty acid amide. 23. The film of claim 22, wherein the modifying agent comprises a saturated stearamide 24. The film of claim 2, wherein the bagging film has a low melt temperature requirement of between about 80° C. to about 176° C. 25. The film of claim 24, wherein the bagging film has a low melt temperature requirement of between about 85° C. to about 106° C. 26. The film of claim 25, wherein the bagging film has a low melt temperature requirement of between about 90° C. to about 95° C. 27. The film of claim 2, wherein the materials being bagged comprise a tacky material. 28. A film for bagging materials, the film having a formulation comprising:
a first resin comprising a styrene-isoprene-styrene triblock copolymer with a polystyrene content of about 43 percent; a second resin comprising a styrene-isoprene-styrene triblock copolymer with a polystyrene content of about 17 percent; and a modifying agent being a lubricant between successive layers of film formed by the first and second resins. | A bagging film includes two resins blended with a modifying agent. The first resin, making up about 60%-85% of the formulation, is a copolymer, polymer, elastomer, or combination thereof. The second resin, making up about 14%-39% of the formulation, is a different copolymer, polymer, elastomer, or combination thereof that is physically softer than the first resin. The modifying agent, making up about 0.25%-3.5% of the formulation, is compounded with the resin formulation such that the modifying agent creates a lubricant between the successive layers of the film.1. A film for bagging materials, the film having a formulation comprising:
a first resin present in an amount of about 74.01 percent of the formulation; a second resin present in an amount of about 24.49 percent of the formulation, the second resin being physically softer than the first resin; and a modifying agent present in an amount of about 1.5 percent of the formulation, the modifying agent configured to create a lubricant between successive layers of film formed by the formulation of the first and second resins, when the modifying agent is compounded with the formulation. 2. A film for bagging materials, the film having a formulation comprising:
a first resin present in an amount of from about 60 to about 85 percent of the formulation; a second resin present in an amount of from about 14 to about 39 percent of the formulation, the second resin being physically softer than the first resin; and a modifying agent being a lubricant between successive layers of film formed by the first and second resins. 3. The film of claim 2, wherein the first resin comprises one or more of a copolymer, a polymer, and an elastomer. 4. The film of claim 2, wherein the first resin is present in an amount of from about 70 to about 80 percent of the formulation. 5. The film of claim 4, wherein the first resin is present in an amount of about 74.01 percent of the formulation. 6. The film of claim 2, wherein the second resin comprises one or more of a copolymer, a polymer, and an elastomer. 7. The film of claim 2, wherein the second resin is present in an amount of from about 19 to about 30 percent of the formulation. 8. The film of claim 7, wherein the second resin is present in an amount of about 24.49 percent of the formulation. 9. The film of claim 2, wherein the first and second resins comprise different copolymer(s), polymer(s), and/or elastomer(s). 10. The film of claim 2, wherein the modifying agent is present in an amount of from about 0.25 to about 3.5 percent of the formulation. 11. The film of claim 10, wherein the modifying agent is present in an amount of from about 1.0 to about 2.0 percent weight of the formulation. 12. The film of claim 11, wherein the modifying agent is present in an amount of about 1.5 percent weight dose of the formulation. 13. The film of claim 2, wherein one or more of the first and second resins comprises about 10 to about 60 percent styrene. 14. The film of claim 13, wherein one or more of the first and second resins comprises about 30 percent styrene. 15. The film of claim 2, wherein the modifying agent is compounded with the first and second resins. 16. The film of claim 2, wherein one or more of the first and second resins has a melting point between about 60° C. to about 150° C. 17. The film of claim 2, wherein the first resin comprises a styrene-isoprene-styrene linear triblock copolymer with a polystyrene content of about 43 percent. 18. The film of claim 2, wherein the first resin has a melt index of about 45 g/10 min. at 200° C., 5 kg, and a specific gravity of about 0.92 g/cc. 19. The film of claim 2, wherein the second resin comprises a styrene-isoprene-styrene triblock copolymer with a polystyrene content of about 17 percent. 20. The film of claim 2, wherein the second resin has a hardness of about 33 Shore A (10s), a melt index of about 33 g/10 min. at 200° C., 5 kg, a styrene/rubber ratio of about 17/83, a tensile strength of about 1200 psi, an about 300 percent modulus of about 60 psi, an elongation at break of about 1300 percent, a specific gravity of about 0.92 g/cc, and a diblock content of about 33. 21. The film of claim 2, wherein the modifying agent comprises one or more of a slip agent, a blooming agent, and a flow modifier. 22. The film of claim 21, wherein the modifying agent comprises a long-chain fatty acid amide. 23. The film of claim 22, wherein the modifying agent comprises a saturated stearamide 24. The film of claim 2, wherein the bagging film has a low melt temperature requirement of between about 80° C. to about 176° C. 25. The film of claim 24, wherein the bagging film has a low melt temperature requirement of between about 85° C. to about 106° C. 26. The film of claim 25, wherein the bagging film has a low melt temperature requirement of between about 90° C. to about 95° C. 27. The film of claim 2, wherein the materials being bagged comprise a tacky material. 28. A film for bagging materials, the film having a formulation comprising:
a first resin comprising a styrene-isoprene-styrene triblock copolymer with a polystyrene content of about 43 percent; a second resin comprising a styrene-isoprene-styrene triblock copolymer with a polystyrene content of about 17 percent; and a modifying agent being a lubricant between successive layers of film formed by the first and second resins. | 1,700 |
4,023 | 15,025,684 | 1,793 | An encapsulated flavour, comprising a core material, flavour material and a coating material, the core material comprising a finely-divided native starch, xanthan gum and konjac. The encapsulated flavours may be completely gelatin-free, while retaining the desirable qualities of gelatin. | 1. An encapsulated flavour, comprising a core material, flavour material and a coating material, the core material comprising a finely-divided native starch, xanthan gum and konjac. 2. A method of preparing an encapsulated flavour, comprising the blending of a mixture of native starch, xanthan gum and konjac and a flavour emulsion to give a granulate. 3. The method according to claim 2, in which the flavour emulsion is prepared in the presence of an emulsifier. 4. The method according to claim 3, in which the emulsifier is polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate. 5. A solid comestible composition comprising a comestible product base and the encapsulated flavour according to claim 1. 6. The solid comestible composition according to claim 5, which is completely gelatin-free. | An encapsulated flavour, comprising a core material, flavour material and a coating material, the core material comprising a finely-divided native starch, xanthan gum and konjac. The encapsulated flavours may be completely gelatin-free, while retaining the desirable qualities of gelatin.1. An encapsulated flavour, comprising a core material, flavour material and a coating material, the core material comprising a finely-divided native starch, xanthan gum and konjac. 2. A method of preparing an encapsulated flavour, comprising the blending of a mixture of native starch, xanthan gum and konjac and a flavour emulsion to give a granulate. 3. The method according to claim 2, in which the flavour emulsion is prepared in the presence of an emulsifier. 4. The method according to claim 3, in which the emulsifier is polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate. 5. A solid comestible composition comprising a comestible product base and the encapsulated flavour according to claim 1. 6. The solid comestible composition according to claim 5, which is completely gelatin-free. | 1,700 |
4,024 | 15,372,561 | 1,791 | The invention provides composition and methods for improving hydration and water intake in an animal. In one embodiment, a hydration composition can comprise water and a hydration additive, where the hydration additive consists essentially of a sugar alcohol and a protein, where the sugar alcohol includes glycerol and the protein includes whey. Additionally, a method of improving hydration and water intake in an animal can comprise administering the hydration composition with water to the animal. | 1. A method for improving water intake and hydration in an animal, comprising administering a hydration composition to the animal, wherein the hydration composition comprises water and a hydration additive, wherein the hydration additive consists essentially of:
a sugar alcohol, where the sugar alcohol comprises glycerol; and a protein, wherein the protein comprises whey. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein administering is on a regular basis. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the composition is administered in an amount of 10 g per kg of body weight (g/kg/BW) 100 g/kg/BW per day to the animal. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the composition is administered in an effective amount to reduce the urine specific gravity of the animal to below 1.040 g/ml. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the composition is administered in an effective amount on a daily basis to increase the water intake of the animal by 15% by weight per week. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein composition further comprises a gum and the gum is selected from the group consisting of guar gum, xanthan gum, kappa-carragenan, locust bean gum, and mixtures thereof. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the composition further comprises an antioxidant and the antioxidant is selected from the group consisting of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, alpha-carotene, beta-cryptoxanthin, gamma-carotene, lutein, astaxanthin, selenium, zeaxanthin, melatonin, N1-Acetyl-5-methoxykynuramine, N1-acetyl-N2-formyl-5-methoxykynuramine, N1-acetylkynuramine, resveratrol, anthocyanins and/or anthocyanidins, curcumin, desmethoxycurcumin, bis-desmethoxycurcumin, Epigallocatechin gallate, and mixtures thereof. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein hydration additive is admixed with the water prior to administration. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the animal is a canine. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the animal is a feline. 11. A hydration composition comprising water and a hydration additive, wherein the hydration additive consists essentially of:
a sugar alcohol, wherein the sugar alcohol comprises glycerol; and a protein, wherein the protein comprises whey. 12. The hydration composition of claim 11, wherein the hydration additive is present in the hydration composition in an amount of about 0.1% to about 10% by weight. 13. The hydration composition of claim 11, wherein the sugar alcohol is present in the hydration additive in an amount of about 10% to about 50% by weight. 14. The hydration composition of claim 11, wherein the protein is present in the hydration additive in an amount of about 40% to about 90% by weight. 15. The hydration composition of claim 11, wherein the hydration additive is present in the hydration composition in an amount of about 1% to 5%, the sugar alcohol is present in the hydration additive in an amount of about 25% to about 50% by weight, and the protein is present in the hydration additive in an amount of about 50% to about 75% by weight. 16. The hydration composition of claim 11, wherein the sugar alcohol consists of glycerol and the protein consists of whey. 17. The hydration composition of claim 11, wherein composition further comprises a gum and the gum is selected from the group consisting of guar gum, xanthan gum, kappa-carragenan, locust bean gum and mixtures thereof. 18. The hydration composition of claim 11, wherein the composition further comprises an antioxidant and the antioxidant is selected from the group consisting of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, alpha-carotene, beta-cryptoxanthin, gamma-carotene, lutein, astaxanthin, selenium, zeaxanthin, melatonin, N1-Acetyl-5-methoxykynuramine, N1-acetyl-N2-formyl-5-methoxykynuramine, N1-acetylkynuramine, resveratrol, anthocyanins and/or anthocyanidins, curcumin, desmethoxycurcumin, bis-desmethoxycurcumin, Epigallocatechin gallate, and mixtures thereof. 19. The hydration composition of claim 11, wherein the composition further comprises a vitamin and the vitamin is selected from the group consisting of vitamin A, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B3, vitamin B5, vitamin B6, vitamin B7, vitamin B8, vitamin B9, vitamin B12, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin K, choline, betaine, and mixtures thereof. 20. A hydration additive consisting essentially of a sugar alcohol and a protein, wherein the sugar alcohol comprises glycerol and the protein comprises whey, wherein the sugar alcohol is present in the hydration additive in an amount of about 25% to about 50% by weight, and the protein is present in the hydration additive in an amount of about 50% to about 75% by weight. | The invention provides composition and methods for improving hydration and water intake in an animal. In one embodiment, a hydration composition can comprise water and a hydration additive, where the hydration additive consists essentially of a sugar alcohol and a protein, where the sugar alcohol includes glycerol and the protein includes whey. Additionally, a method of improving hydration and water intake in an animal can comprise administering the hydration composition with water to the animal.1. A method for improving water intake and hydration in an animal, comprising administering a hydration composition to the animal, wherein the hydration composition comprises water and a hydration additive, wherein the hydration additive consists essentially of:
a sugar alcohol, where the sugar alcohol comprises glycerol; and a protein, wherein the protein comprises whey. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein administering is on a regular basis. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the composition is administered in an amount of 10 g per kg of body weight (g/kg/BW) 100 g/kg/BW per day to the animal. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the composition is administered in an effective amount to reduce the urine specific gravity of the animal to below 1.040 g/ml. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the composition is administered in an effective amount on a daily basis to increase the water intake of the animal by 15% by weight per week. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein composition further comprises a gum and the gum is selected from the group consisting of guar gum, xanthan gum, kappa-carragenan, locust bean gum, and mixtures thereof. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the composition further comprises an antioxidant and the antioxidant is selected from the group consisting of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, alpha-carotene, beta-cryptoxanthin, gamma-carotene, lutein, astaxanthin, selenium, zeaxanthin, melatonin, N1-Acetyl-5-methoxykynuramine, N1-acetyl-N2-formyl-5-methoxykynuramine, N1-acetylkynuramine, resveratrol, anthocyanins and/or anthocyanidins, curcumin, desmethoxycurcumin, bis-desmethoxycurcumin, Epigallocatechin gallate, and mixtures thereof. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein hydration additive is admixed with the water prior to administration. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the animal is a canine. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the animal is a feline. 11. A hydration composition comprising water and a hydration additive, wherein the hydration additive consists essentially of:
a sugar alcohol, wherein the sugar alcohol comprises glycerol; and a protein, wherein the protein comprises whey. 12. The hydration composition of claim 11, wherein the hydration additive is present in the hydration composition in an amount of about 0.1% to about 10% by weight. 13. The hydration composition of claim 11, wherein the sugar alcohol is present in the hydration additive in an amount of about 10% to about 50% by weight. 14. The hydration composition of claim 11, wherein the protein is present in the hydration additive in an amount of about 40% to about 90% by weight. 15. The hydration composition of claim 11, wherein the hydration additive is present in the hydration composition in an amount of about 1% to 5%, the sugar alcohol is present in the hydration additive in an amount of about 25% to about 50% by weight, and the protein is present in the hydration additive in an amount of about 50% to about 75% by weight. 16. The hydration composition of claim 11, wherein the sugar alcohol consists of glycerol and the protein consists of whey. 17. The hydration composition of claim 11, wherein composition further comprises a gum and the gum is selected from the group consisting of guar gum, xanthan gum, kappa-carragenan, locust bean gum and mixtures thereof. 18. The hydration composition of claim 11, wherein the composition further comprises an antioxidant and the antioxidant is selected from the group consisting of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, alpha-carotene, beta-cryptoxanthin, gamma-carotene, lutein, astaxanthin, selenium, zeaxanthin, melatonin, N1-Acetyl-5-methoxykynuramine, N1-acetyl-N2-formyl-5-methoxykynuramine, N1-acetylkynuramine, resveratrol, anthocyanins and/or anthocyanidins, curcumin, desmethoxycurcumin, bis-desmethoxycurcumin, Epigallocatechin gallate, and mixtures thereof. 19. The hydration composition of claim 11, wherein the composition further comprises a vitamin and the vitamin is selected from the group consisting of vitamin A, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B3, vitamin B5, vitamin B6, vitamin B7, vitamin B8, vitamin B9, vitamin B12, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin K, choline, betaine, and mixtures thereof. 20. A hydration additive consisting essentially of a sugar alcohol and a protein, wherein the sugar alcohol comprises glycerol and the protein comprises whey, wherein the sugar alcohol is present in the hydration additive in an amount of about 25% to about 50% by weight, and the protein is present in the hydration additive in an amount of about 50% to about 75% by weight. | 1,700 |
4,025 | 15,227,968 | 1,726 | A solar cell is provided which includes: a photoelectric converter having a p-type surface on a major surface and an n-type surface on the major surface; a p-side electrode disposed on the p-type surface and formed from a plating film; an n-side electrode disposed on the n-type surface and formed from a plating film; a p-side seed layer disposed between the p-type surface and the p-side electrode; and an n-side seed layer disposed between the n-type surface and the n-side electrode, wherein a width W 1 between the two closest points of the p-side electrode and the n-side electrode that are adjacent one another is greater than a width W 2 between the two closest points of an end of the p-side seed layer and an end of the n-side seed layer that are adjacent one another. | 1. A solar cell, comprising:
a photoelectric converter having a p-type surface on a major surface and an n-type surface on the major surface; a p-side electrode disposed on the p-type surface and formed from a plating film; an n-side electrode disposed on the n-type surface and formed from a plating film; a p-side seed layer disposed between the p-type surface and the p-side electrode; and an n-side seed layer disposed between the n-type surface and the n-side electrode, wherein a width W1 between two closest points of the p-side electrode and the n-side electrode that are adjacent one another is greater than a width W2 between two closest points of an end of the p-side seed layer and an end of the n-side seed layer that are adjacent one another. 2. The solar cell according to claim 1, wherein
the p-side electrode and the n-side electrode each include a plurality of finger electrodes, and the plurality of finger electrodes included in the p-side electrode and the plurality of finger electrodes included in the n-side electrode are interdigitated. 3. The solar cell according to claim 2, further comprising an insulating layer between the end of the p-side seed layer and the end of the n-side seed layer that are adjacent one another, the insulating layer having a head extending in an extending direction and covering the end of the p-side seed layer and the end of the n-side seed layer. 4. The solar cell according to claim 3, wherein a width W3 of the head in the extending direction is at least two times the width W2. 5. The solar cell according to claim 1, wherein the p-side seed layer and the n-side seed layer each include a transparent conducting layer and a metal layer on the transparent conducting layer, the transparent conducting layer included in the p-side seed layer being disposed on the p-type surface, and the transparent conducting layer included in the n-side seed layer being disposed on the n-type surface. 6. The solar cell according to claim 5, wherein in the p-side seed layer and the n-side seed layer that are adjacent one another, a width between the metal layer included in the p-side seed layer and the metal layer included in the n-side seed layer is greater than (i) a width between the transparent conducting layer included in the p-side seed layer and the transparent conducting layer included in the n-side seed layer, and (ii) the width W2. 7. The solar cell according to claim 3, wherein the insulating layer is transparent. 8. The solar cell according to claim 3, wherein the insulating layer includes a resist material. 9. The solar cell according to claim 1, wherein the photoelectric converter includes:
a substrate including a semiconductor material; a p-type amorphous silicon layer disposed on a major surface of the substrate and having the p-type surface; and an n-type amorphous silicon layer disposed on the major surface of the substrate and having the n-type surface. 10. The solar cell according to claim 3, wherein, in substance, internal stress in the insulating layer and internal stress in each of the p-side seed layer, the n-side seed layer, the p-side electrode, and the n-side electrode are equal in polarity and substantially equal in magnitude. | A solar cell is provided which includes: a photoelectric converter having a p-type surface on a major surface and an n-type surface on the major surface; a p-side electrode disposed on the p-type surface and formed from a plating film; an n-side electrode disposed on the n-type surface and formed from a plating film; a p-side seed layer disposed between the p-type surface and the p-side electrode; and an n-side seed layer disposed between the n-type surface and the n-side electrode, wherein a width W 1 between the two closest points of the p-side electrode and the n-side electrode that are adjacent one another is greater than a width W 2 between the two closest points of an end of the p-side seed layer and an end of the n-side seed layer that are adjacent one another.1. A solar cell, comprising:
a photoelectric converter having a p-type surface on a major surface and an n-type surface on the major surface; a p-side electrode disposed on the p-type surface and formed from a plating film; an n-side electrode disposed on the n-type surface and formed from a plating film; a p-side seed layer disposed between the p-type surface and the p-side electrode; and an n-side seed layer disposed between the n-type surface and the n-side electrode, wherein a width W1 between two closest points of the p-side electrode and the n-side electrode that are adjacent one another is greater than a width W2 between two closest points of an end of the p-side seed layer and an end of the n-side seed layer that are adjacent one another. 2. The solar cell according to claim 1, wherein
the p-side electrode and the n-side electrode each include a plurality of finger electrodes, and the plurality of finger electrodes included in the p-side electrode and the plurality of finger electrodes included in the n-side electrode are interdigitated. 3. The solar cell according to claim 2, further comprising an insulating layer between the end of the p-side seed layer and the end of the n-side seed layer that are adjacent one another, the insulating layer having a head extending in an extending direction and covering the end of the p-side seed layer and the end of the n-side seed layer. 4. The solar cell according to claim 3, wherein a width W3 of the head in the extending direction is at least two times the width W2. 5. The solar cell according to claim 1, wherein the p-side seed layer and the n-side seed layer each include a transparent conducting layer and a metal layer on the transparent conducting layer, the transparent conducting layer included in the p-side seed layer being disposed on the p-type surface, and the transparent conducting layer included in the n-side seed layer being disposed on the n-type surface. 6. The solar cell according to claim 5, wherein in the p-side seed layer and the n-side seed layer that are adjacent one another, a width between the metal layer included in the p-side seed layer and the metal layer included in the n-side seed layer is greater than (i) a width between the transparent conducting layer included in the p-side seed layer and the transparent conducting layer included in the n-side seed layer, and (ii) the width W2. 7. The solar cell according to claim 3, wherein the insulating layer is transparent. 8. The solar cell according to claim 3, wherein the insulating layer includes a resist material. 9. The solar cell according to claim 1, wherein the photoelectric converter includes:
a substrate including a semiconductor material; a p-type amorphous silicon layer disposed on a major surface of the substrate and having the p-type surface; and an n-type amorphous silicon layer disposed on the major surface of the substrate and having the n-type surface. 10. The solar cell according to claim 3, wherein, in substance, internal stress in the insulating layer and internal stress in each of the p-side seed layer, the n-side seed layer, the p-side electrode, and the n-side electrode are equal in polarity and substantially equal in magnitude. | 1,700 |
4,026 | 15,766,639 | 1,784 | A surface-treated steel material includes a coating film formed on a surface of a steel material through a plating layer. The plating layer is obtained by immersing the steel material in a galvalume bath containing Mg. In the surface-treated steel material, the coating film is formed using a coating composition containing a coating film-forming resin, a cross-linking agent, a predetermined vanadium compound, and trimagnesium phosphate. The vanadium compound is a compound satisfying a predetermined electrical conductivity. The content of the vanadium compound is limited to a specified amount with respect to 100 mass % of the total of the coating film-forming resin solids and the cross-linking agent solids. The vanadium compound has a specified pH, and the content of the trimagnesium phosphate is a specified amount with respect to 100 mass % of the total of the coating film-forming resin solids and the cross-linking agent solids. | 1. A surface-treated steel material comprising a coating film formed on a surface of a steel material through a base layer containing at least an aluminum-zinc alloy plating layer, the aluminum-zinc alloy plating layer containing Al, Zn, Si, Cr, and Mg as constituent elements thereof, wherein
an Mg content is 0.1 to 10% by mass, a Cr content is 0.02 to 1.0% by mass, the aluminum-zinc alloy plating layer contains 0.2 to 15% by volume of an Si—Mg phase, a ratio of a mass of Mg in the Si—Mg phase to a total mass of Mg is 3% or more, the coating film contains a coating film-forming resin (a), a cross-linking agent (b), at least one type of vanadium compound (c) selected from the group consisting of an alkaline earth metal vanadate and magnesium vanadate, and trimagnesium phosphate (d), the vanadium compound (c) is a compound in which an electrical conductivity of 1% by mass aqueous solution thereof at a temperature of 25° C. is 200 μS/cm to 2,000 μS/cm, a content of the vanadium compound (c) is more than 50% by mass and 150% by mass or less relative to 100% by mass of a total of the coating film-forming resin (a) and the cross-linking agent (b), a pH of 1% by mass aqueous solution of the vanadium compound (c) is 6.5 to 11, and a content of the trimagnesium phosphate (d) is 3 to 150% by mass relative to 100% by mass of the total of the coating film-forming resin (a) and the cross-linking agent (b). 2. The surface-treated steel material according to claim 1, wherein the coating film further contains at least one type of extender pigment (e) selected from the group consisting of calcium carbonate, barium sulfate, clay, talc, mica, silica, alumina, and bentonite, and a content of the extender pigment (e) is 1 to 40% by mass relative to 100% by mass of the total of the coating film-forming resin (a) and the cross-linking agent (b). 3. The surface-treated steel material according to claim 1, wherein the coating film-forming resin (a) contains at least one type selected from the group consisting of a hydroxy group-containing epoxy resin having a number-average molecular weight of 2,000 to 10,000 and a glass transition temperature of 60 to 120° C., and a hydroxy group-containing polyester resin having a number-average molecular weight of 2,000 to 30,000 and a glass transition temperature of 0 to 80° C. 4. The surface-treated steel material according to claim 1, wherein
the cross-linking agent (b) contains at least one type selected from the group consisting of a blocked polyisocyanate compound (f) in which an isocyanate group of a polyisocyanate compound is blocked with an active hydrogen-containing compound, and an amino resin (g) having one or more methylol groups or imino groups on average in one molecule, and a content of the cross-linking agent (b) is 10 to 80% by mass relative to 100% by mass of the coating film-forming resin (a). 5. The surface-treated steel material according to claim 4, wherein the polyisocyanate compound is an aromatic polyisocyanate compound. 6. The surface-treated steel material according to claim 1, wherein
the coating composition further contains at least one type of coupling agent (h) selected from the group consisting of a silane-based coupling agent, a titanium-based coupling agent, and a zirconium-based coupling agent, and a content of the coupling agent (h) is 0.1 to 20% by mass relative to 100% by mass of the total of the coating film-forming resin (a) and the cross-linking agent (b). 7. The surface-treated steel material according to claim 1, wherein a wet resistance value that is a direct-current resistance value of the coating film after the coating film having a dry thickness of 15 μm is wetted by a 5% salt solution at 35° C. for 1 hour is 105 to 1012 Ω·cm2. 8. The surface-treated steel material according to claim 1, wherein the Mg content at any region having a size of 4 mm in diameter and 50 nm in depth in an outermost layer having a depth of 50 nm in the aluminum-zinc alloy plating layer is less than 60% by mass. 9. The surface-treated steel material according to claim 1, wherein the Cr content in an outermost layer having a depth of 50 nm in the aluminum-zinc alloy plating layer is 100 to 500 ppm by mass. 10. The surface-treated steel material according to claim 1, wherein an alloy layer containing Al and Cr is interposed between the aluminum-zinc alloy plating layer and the steel material, and a ratio of a mass ratio of Cr in the alloy layer to a mass ratio of Cr in the aluminum-zinc alloy plating layer falls within a range of 2 to 50. 11. The surface-treated steel material according to claim 1, wherein an area ratio of the Si—Mg phase on a surface of the aluminum-zinc alloy plating layer is 30% or less. 12. The surface-treated steel material according to claim 1, wherein
an Al content in the aluminum-zinc alloy plating layer is 25 to 75% by mass, an Si content in the aluminum-zinc alloy plating layer is 0.5 to 10% by mass relative to the Al content, and a mass ratio of Si to Mg in the aluminum-zinc alloy plating layer is 100:50 to 100:300. 13. The surface-treated steel material according to claim 1, wherein the aluminum-zinc alloy plating layer further contains 1 to 1,000 ppm by mass of Sr as a constituent element. 14. The surface-treated steel material according to claim 1, wherein the aluminum-zinc alloy plating layer further contains a component comprising at least one of Ti and B in a range of 0.0005 to 0.1 by mass as a constituent element. | A surface-treated steel material includes a coating film formed on a surface of a steel material through a plating layer. The plating layer is obtained by immersing the steel material in a galvalume bath containing Mg. In the surface-treated steel material, the coating film is formed using a coating composition containing a coating film-forming resin, a cross-linking agent, a predetermined vanadium compound, and trimagnesium phosphate. The vanadium compound is a compound satisfying a predetermined electrical conductivity. The content of the vanadium compound is limited to a specified amount with respect to 100 mass % of the total of the coating film-forming resin solids and the cross-linking agent solids. The vanadium compound has a specified pH, and the content of the trimagnesium phosphate is a specified amount with respect to 100 mass % of the total of the coating film-forming resin solids and the cross-linking agent solids.1. A surface-treated steel material comprising a coating film formed on a surface of a steel material through a base layer containing at least an aluminum-zinc alloy plating layer, the aluminum-zinc alloy plating layer containing Al, Zn, Si, Cr, and Mg as constituent elements thereof, wherein
an Mg content is 0.1 to 10% by mass, a Cr content is 0.02 to 1.0% by mass, the aluminum-zinc alloy plating layer contains 0.2 to 15% by volume of an Si—Mg phase, a ratio of a mass of Mg in the Si—Mg phase to a total mass of Mg is 3% or more, the coating film contains a coating film-forming resin (a), a cross-linking agent (b), at least one type of vanadium compound (c) selected from the group consisting of an alkaline earth metal vanadate and magnesium vanadate, and trimagnesium phosphate (d), the vanadium compound (c) is a compound in which an electrical conductivity of 1% by mass aqueous solution thereof at a temperature of 25° C. is 200 μS/cm to 2,000 μS/cm, a content of the vanadium compound (c) is more than 50% by mass and 150% by mass or less relative to 100% by mass of a total of the coating film-forming resin (a) and the cross-linking agent (b), a pH of 1% by mass aqueous solution of the vanadium compound (c) is 6.5 to 11, and a content of the trimagnesium phosphate (d) is 3 to 150% by mass relative to 100% by mass of the total of the coating film-forming resin (a) and the cross-linking agent (b). 2. The surface-treated steel material according to claim 1, wherein the coating film further contains at least one type of extender pigment (e) selected from the group consisting of calcium carbonate, barium sulfate, clay, talc, mica, silica, alumina, and bentonite, and a content of the extender pigment (e) is 1 to 40% by mass relative to 100% by mass of the total of the coating film-forming resin (a) and the cross-linking agent (b). 3. The surface-treated steel material according to claim 1, wherein the coating film-forming resin (a) contains at least one type selected from the group consisting of a hydroxy group-containing epoxy resin having a number-average molecular weight of 2,000 to 10,000 and a glass transition temperature of 60 to 120° C., and a hydroxy group-containing polyester resin having a number-average molecular weight of 2,000 to 30,000 and a glass transition temperature of 0 to 80° C. 4. The surface-treated steel material according to claim 1, wherein
the cross-linking agent (b) contains at least one type selected from the group consisting of a blocked polyisocyanate compound (f) in which an isocyanate group of a polyisocyanate compound is blocked with an active hydrogen-containing compound, and an amino resin (g) having one or more methylol groups or imino groups on average in one molecule, and a content of the cross-linking agent (b) is 10 to 80% by mass relative to 100% by mass of the coating film-forming resin (a). 5. The surface-treated steel material according to claim 4, wherein the polyisocyanate compound is an aromatic polyisocyanate compound. 6. The surface-treated steel material according to claim 1, wherein
the coating composition further contains at least one type of coupling agent (h) selected from the group consisting of a silane-based coupling agent, a titanium-based coupling agent, and a zirconium-based coupling agent, and a content of the coupling agent (h) is 0.1 to 20% by mass relative to 100% by mass of the total of the coating film-forming resin (a) and the cross-linking agent (b). 7. The surface-treated steel material according to claim 1, wherein a wet resistance value that is a direct-current resistance value of the coating film after the coating film having a dry thickness of 15 μm is wetted by a 5% salt solution at 35° C. for 1 hour is 105 to 1012 Ω·cm2. 8. The surface-treated steel material according to claim 1, wherein the Mg content at any region having a size of 4 mm in diameter and 50 nm in depth in an outermost layer having a depth of 50 nm in the aluminum-zinc alloy plating layer is less than 60% by mass. 9. The surface-treated steel material according to claim 1, wherein the Cr content in an outermost layer having a depth of 50 nm in the aluminum-zinc alloy plating layer is 100 to 500 ppm by mass. 10. The surface-treated steel material according to claim 1, wherein an alloy layer containing Al and Cr is interposed between the aluminum-zinc alloy plating layer and the steel material, and a ratio of a mass ratio of Cr in the alloy layer to a mass ratio of Cr in the aluminum-zinc alloy plating layer falls within a range of 2 to 50. 11. The surface-treated steel material according to claim 1, wherein an area ratio of the Si—Mg phase on a surface of the aluminum-zinc alloy plating layer is 30% or less. 12. The surface-treated steel material according to claim 1, wherein
an Al content in the aluminum-zinc alloy plating layer is 25 to 75% by mass, an Si content in the aluminum-zinc alloy plating layer is 0.5 to 10% by mass relative to the Al content, and a mass ratio of Si to Mg in the aluminum-zinc alloy plating layer is 100:50 to 100:300. 13. The surface-treated steel material according to claim 1, wherein the aluminum-zinc alloy plating layer further contains 1 to 1,000 ppm by mass of Sr as a constituent element. 14. The surface-treated steel material according to claim 1, wherein the aluminum-zinc alloy plating layer further contains a component comprising at least one of Ti and B in a range of 0.0005 to 0.1 by mass as a constituent element. | 1,700 |
4,027 | 13,825,089 | 1,734 | The present invention provides a method for producing high-purity hydrogen chloride, comprising the steps of: purifying each of crude hydrogen and crude chlorine as raw materials to a purity of 99.999% or higher; reacting an excessive molar amount of the purified hydrogen with the purified chlorine at a temperature ranging from 1,200° C. to 1,400° C. to synthesize hydrogen chloride; converting the hydrogen chloride to a liquid state by compression; and purifying the hydrogen chloride and separating unreacted hydrogen by fractional distillation. The invention also provides a system for carrying out the method. According to the method and system, an environmentally friendly production process can be provided, which can easily produce a large amount of hydrogen chloride having a purity of 3 N (99.9%)-6 N (99.9999%) in a cost-effective manner and enables energy consumption to be significantly reduced. | 1. A method for producing high-purity hydrogen chloride, comprising the steps of:
purifying crude hydrogen to produce purified hydrogen by removing water and oxygen from the crude hydrogen; purifying crude chlorine to produce purified chlorine by removing water and oxygen from the crude chlorine; reacting the purified hydrogen with the purified chlorine to synthesize hydrogen chloride; and compressing and cooling the synthesized hydrogen chloride. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein purifying the crude hydrogen is performed by removing water and oxygen from the crude hydrogen using a catalyst and an adsorbent, and purifying the crude chloride is performed by subjecting the crude chlorine gas to a first adsorption process to remove water, subjecting the crude chlorine to a first low-temperature distillation process to remove metal components, and then subjecting the crude chlorine to a second low-temperature distillation process to remove gas components other than chlorine. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the purified hydrogen is used in an amount larger than the purified chlorine by 10-20 mole % in the step of reacting. 4. A system for producing high-purity hydrogen chloride, comprising:
a hydrogen purification system to produce purified hydrogen by removing water and oxygen from crude hydrogen; a chlorine purification system to produce purified chlorine by removing water and oxygen from crude chlorine; a reactor in which hydrogen and chlorine, supplied from the hydrogen purification system and chlorine purification system, are reacted with each other to synthesize hydrogen chloride; a compressor for compressing the hydrogen chloride synthesized in the reactor; and a chiller for cooling the hydrogen chloride compressed by the compressor. 5. The system of claim 4, wherein a chiller is provided in front or rear of the compressor. 6. The system of claim 4, wherein the compressor or the distillation column comprises two or more stages. 7. The system of claim 4, wherein the system further comprises a cooling/absorption column in which the hydrogen chloride resulting from the compressor is dissolved without purification to prepare hydrochloric acid. 8. The system of claim 4, wherein a chlorine purification system comprises an adsorption column for removing water from the crude chlorine gas; a first low-temperature distillation column for removing metal components; a cooler for cooling chlorine distilled in the first low-temperature distillation column; and a second low-temperature distillation column for removing gas components other than chlorine. | The present invention provides a method for producing high-purity hydrogen chloride, comprising the steps of: purifying each of crude hydrogen and crude chlorine as raw materials to a purity of 99.999% or higher; reacting an excessive molar amount of the purified hydrogen with the purified chlorine at a temperature ranging from 1,200° C. to 1,400° C. to synthesize hydrogen chloride; converting the hydrogen chloride to a liquid state by compression; and purifying the hydrogen chloride and separating unreacted hydrogen by fractional distillation. The invention also provides a system for carrying out the method. According to the method and system, an environmentally friendly production process can be provided, which can easily produce a large amount of hydrogen chloride having a purity of 3 N (99.9%)-6 N (99.9999%) in a cost-effective manner and enables energy consumption to be significantly reduced.1. A method for producing high-purity hydrogen chloride, comprising the steps of:
purifying crude hydrogen to produce purified hydrogen by removing water and oxygen from the crude hydrogen; purifying crude chlorine to produce purified chlorine by removing water and oxygen from the crude chlorine; reacting the purified hydrogen with the purified chlorine to synthesize hydrogen chloride; and compressing and cooling the synthesized hydrogen chloride. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein purifying the crude hydrogen is performed by removing water and oxygen from the crude hydrogen using a catalyst and an adsorbent, and purifying the crude chloride is performed by subjecting the crude chlorine gas to a first adsorption process to remove water, subjecting the crude chlorine to a first low-temperature distillation process to remove metal components, and then subjecting the crude chlorine to a second low-temperature distillation process to remove gas components other than chlorine. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the purified hydrogen is used in an amount larger than the purified chlorine by 10-20 mole % in the step of reacting. 4. A system for producing high-purity hydrogen chloride, comprising:
a hydrogen purification system to produce purified hydrogen by removing water and oxygen from crude hydrogen; a chlorine purification system to produce purified chlorine by removing water and oxygen from crude chlorine; a reactor in which hydrogen and chlorine, supplied from the hydrogen purification system and chlorine purification system, are reacted with each other to synthesize hydrogen chloride; a compressor for compressing the hydrogen chloride synthesized in the reactor; and a chiller for cooling the hydrogen chloride compressed by the compressor. 5. The system of claim 4, wherein a chiller is provided in front or rear of the compressor. 6. The system of claim 4, wherein the compressor or the distillation column comprises two or more stages. 7. The system of claim 4, wherein the system further comprises a cooling/absorption column in which the hydrogen chloride resulting from the compressor is dissolved without purification to prepare hydrochloric acid. 8. The system of claim 4, wherein a chlorine purification system comprises an adsorption column for removing water from the crude chlorine gas; a first low-temperature distillation column for removing metal components; a cooler for cooling chlorine distilled in the first low-temperature distillation column; and a second low-temperature distillation column for removing gas components other than chlorine. | 1,700 |
4,028 | 15,021,578 | 1,795 | A method is provided for treating a metal surface. The method comprises electrochemically treating the metal surface to form a first metal oxide coating, removing a portion of the first metal oxide coating to form and exposed metal surface, and electrochemically treating the exposed metal surface to form a second oxide coating on the metal surface. | 1. A method of treating a metal surface, the method comprising
treating the metal surface with micro-arc oxidation to form a first metal oxide coating on the metal surface, removing a portion of the first metal oxide coating to form an exposed metal surface, and treating the exposed metal surface with micro-arc oxidation to form a second metal oxide coating on the exposed metal surface. 2. A method according to claim 1, wherein the metal surface comprises aluminium, magnesium, titanium, their alloys or combinations thereof. 3. A method according to claim 1, wherein removing portions of the metal oxide coating comprises etching. 4. A method according to claim 3, wherein etching is chemical etching or laser etching. 5. A method according to claim 1, comprising removing portions of the first metal oxide coating and/or the second metal oxide coating to form a further exposed metal surface and treating the further exposed metal surface with micro-arc oxidation to form a third metal oxide coating on the further exposed metal surface. 6. A method according to claim 1, further comprising baking the metal surface with the first metal oxide coating. 7. A method according to claim 1, further comprising pre-treating the metal surface and/or the first metal oxide coating prior to treating with micro-arc oxidation. 8. A method of manufacturing a casing for a device, the casing having a metal surface, the method comprising
electrochemically treating the metal surface to form a first metal oxide coating having a dielectric breakdown potential, the electrochemical treatment comprising applying a first voltage to the metal surface in a first electrolytic solution, wherein the voltage applied is greater than the dielectric breakdown potential of the first metal oxide coating, removing a portion of the first metal oxide coating to form an exposed metal surface, and electrochemically treating the exposed metal to form a second metal oxide coating having a dielectric breakdown potential, the electrochemical treatment comprising applying the first or a second voltage to the exposed metal surface in the first or a second electrolytic solution, wherein the voltage applied is greater than the dielectric breakdown potential of the second metal oxide coating. 9. A method according to claim 8, wherein the electrolytic solutions comprise dilute alkali solutions. 10. A method according to claim 8, wherein the electrolytic solutions further comprise an organic acid. 11. A method according to claim 8, wherein the first and/or the second voltage is a pulsed direct current. 12. A casing for a portable device comprising
a metal surface, a first metal oxide coating of the metal surface formed by micro-arc oxidation of the metal surface, and a second metal oxide coating formed by micro-arc oxidation of the metal surface. 13. A casing according to claim 12, wherein the first metal oxide coating and the second metal oxide coating form a continuous coating of the metal surface. 14. A casing according to claim 12 wherein the first metal oxide coating and the second metal oxide coating have different functional, physical, visual, tactual and/or textual properties. | A method is provided for treating a metal surface. The method comprises electrochemically treating the metal surface to form a first metal oxide coating, removing a portion of the first metal oxide coating to form and exposed metal surface, and electrochemically treating the exposed metal surface to form a second oxide coating on the metal surface.1. A method of treating a metal surface, the method comprising
treating the metal surface with micro-arc oxidation to form a first metal oxide coating on the metal surface, removing a portion of the first metal oxide coating to form an exposed metal surface, and treating the exposed metal surface with micro-arc oxidation to form a second metal oxide coating on the exposed metal surface. 2. A method according to claim 1, wherein the metal surface comprises aluminium, magnesium, titanium, their alloys or combinations thereof. 3. A method according to claim 1, wherein removing portions of the metal oxide coating comprises etching. 4. A method according to claim 3, wherein etching is chemical etching or laser etching. 5. A method according to claim 1, comprising removing portions of the first metal oxide coating and/or the second metal oxide coating to form a further exposed metal surface and treating the further exposed metal surface with micro-arc oxidation to form a third metal oxide coating on the further exposed metal surface. 6. A method according to claim 1, further comprising baking the metal surface with the first metal oxide coating. 7. A method according to claim 1, further comprising pre-treating the metal surface and/or the first metal oxide coating prior to treating with micro-arc oxidation. 8. A method of manufacturing a casing for a device, the casing having a metal surface, the method comprising
electrochemically treating the metal surface to form a first metal oxide coating having a dielectric breakdown potential, the electrochemical treatment comprising applying a first voltage to the metal surface in a first electrolytic solution, wherein the voltage applied is greater than the dielectric breakdown potential of the first metal oxide coating, removing a portion of the first metal oxide coating to form an exposed metal surface, and electrochemically treating the exposed metal to form a second metal oxide coating having a dielectric breakdown potential, the electrochemical treatment comprising applying the first or a second voltage to the exposed metal surface in the first or a second electrolytic solution, wherein the voltage applied is greater than the dielectric breakdown potential of the second metal oxide coating. 9. A method according to claim 8, wherein the electrolytic solutions comprise dilute alkali solutions. 10. A method according to claim 8, wherein the electrolytic solutions further comprise an organic acid. 11. A method according to claim 8, wherein the first and/or the second voltage is a pulsed direct current. 12. A casing for a portable device comprising
a metal surface, a first metal oxide coating of the metal surface formed by micro-arc oxidation of the metal surface, and a second metal oxide coating formed by micro-arc oxidation of the metal surface. 13. A casing according to claim 12, wherein the first metal oxide coating and the second metal oxide coating form a continuous coating of the metal surface. 14. A casing according to claim 12 wherein the first metal oxide coating and the second metal oxide coating have different functional, physical, visual, tactual and/or textual properties. | 1,700 |
4,029 | 15,144,992 | 1,735 | A system for treatment of atomized powder including a fluidized bed operable to treat feedstock alloy powders. A method of treating atomized powder including communicating an inert gas into a fluidized bed; communicating an atomized powder into the fluidized bed; and heating the atomized powder in the fluidized bed, eject the treated powders out of the fluidized bed to quench the powders. | 1. A system for treatment of atomized powder, comprising:
a fluidized bed operable to heat treat feedstock alloy powders, the feedstock alloy powders heat treated for microstructure control to hereby condition the feedstock alloy powders into a state to facilitate solid-state consolidation. 2. The system as recited in claim 1, wherein the feedstock alloy powders are degassed. 3. The system as recited in claim 1, further comprising an inert gas in communication with the fluidized bed. 4. The system as recited in claim 1, further comprising a quenching reservoir in communication with the fluidized bed. 5. The system as recited in claim 4, further comprising a three-way valve in communication with the quenching reservoir. 6. The system as recited in claim 5, further comprising a water bubbler, a fine powder collector and a quenching powder collector in communication with the three-way valve. 7. The system as recited in claim 1, further comprising a vibrator in communication with the fluidized bed and the line to a quenched powder collector to facilitate to eject the atomized powder. 8. A method of treating atomized powder, comprising:
communicating an inert gas into a fluidized bed; communicating an atomized powder into the a fluidized bed; and heating the atomized powder in the fluidized bed, the feedstock alloy powders heat treated for microstructure control. 9. The method as recited in claim 8, further comprising communicating the atomized powder into a quenching reservoir. 10. The method as recited in claim 9, further comprising communicating the atomized powder from the quenching reservoir to a three way valve. 11. The method as recited in claim 10, further comprising communicating the atomized powder from the three way valve to a fine powder collector. 12. The method as recited in claim 11, further comprising communicating the atomized powder to the fine powder collector through a water bubbler. 13. The method as recited in claim 12, further comprising quenching the atomized powder. 14. The method as recited in claim 8, further comprising degassing the atomized powder. 15. The method as recited in claim 14, further comprising communicating the atomized powder from the three way valve to a quenched powder collector. | A system for treatment of atomized powder including a fluidized bed operable to treat feedstock alloy powders. A method of treating atomized powder including communicating an inert gas into a fluidized bed; communicating an atomized powder into the fluidized bed; and heating the atomized powder in the fluidized bed, eject the treated powders out of the fluidized bed to quench the powders.1. A system for treatment of atomized powder, comprising:
a fluidized bed operable to heat treat feedstock alloy powders, the feedstock alloy powders heat treated for microstructure control to hereby condition the feedstock alloy powders into a state to facilitate solid-state consolidation. 2. The system as recited in claim 1, wherein the feedstock alloy powders are degassed. 3. The system as recited in claim 1, further comprising an inert gas in communication with the fluidized bed. 4. The system as recited in claim 1, further comprising a quenching reservoir in communication with the fluidized bed. 5. The system as recited in claim 4, further comprising a three-way valve in communication with the quenching reservoir. 6. The system as recited in claim 5, further comprising a water bubbler, a fine powder collector and a quenching powder collector in communication with the three-way valve. 7. The system as recited in claim 1, further comprising a vibrator in communication with the fluidized bed and the line to a quenched powder collector to facilitate to eject the atomized powder. 8. A method of treating atomized powder, comprising:
communicating an inert gas into a fluidized bed; communicating an atomized powder into the a fluidized bed; and heating the atomized powder in the fluidized bed, the feedstock alloy powders heat treated for microstructure control. 9. The method as recited in claim 8, further comprising communicating the atomized powder into a quenching reservoir. 10. The method as recited in claim 9, further comprising communicating the atomized powder from the quenching reservoir to a three way valve. 11. The method as recited in claim 10, further comprising communicating the atomized powder from the three way valve to a fine powder collector. 12. The method as recited in claim 11, further comprising communicating the atomized powder to the fine powder collector through a water bubbler. 13. The method as recited in claim 12, further comprising quenching the atomized powder. 14. The method as recited in claim 8, further comprising degassing the atomized powder. 15. The method as recited in claim 14, further comprising communicating the atomized powder from the three way valve to a quenched powder collector. | 1,700 |
4,030 | 14,718,584 | 1,787 | Composite materials and structural adhesives containing particles of functionalized polymers as a toughening agent. The particles are composed of functionalized polyaryletherketone (PAEK) polymer or copolymer thereof that contain chemical functional groups capable of reacting with a thermoset resin component to form covalent bonds. | 1. A composite material comprising:
a curable thermoset matrix resin comprising at least one thermoset resin; reinforcement fibers impregnated with the matrix resin; particles of an amine-functionalised polyaryletherketone polymer or copolymer thereof, wherein the functionalized PAEK particles comprise amine functional groups capable of forming covalent bonds with the thermoset resin. 2. The composite material of claim 1, wherein said polyaryletherketone polymer or copolymer has one or more of the following aryletherketone repeat units:
—Ar—O—Ar—C(═O)— —Ar—O—Ar—C(═O)—Ar—C(═O)— —Ar—O—Ar—O—Ar—C(═O)— —Ar—O—Ar—O—Ar—C(═O)—Ar—C(═O)— —Ar—O—Ar—C(═O)—Ar—O—Ar—C(═O)—Ar—C(═O)— wherein each Ar is independently an aromatic moiety. 3. The composite material of claim 1, wherein the copolymer comprises an aryletherketone repeat unit and one or more of the following repeat units: 4. The composite material of claim 1, wherein the polymer or copolymer has the following structure:
where E is an amine functional group and n is an integer from 15 to 200. 5. The composite material of claim 4, wherein E is phenoxyaniline. 6. The composite material according to claim 1, wherein the PAEK particles comprise a PAEK polymer selected from the group consisting of: polyetherketoneketone (PEKK), polyetherketone (PEK), polyetherketonepolyetherketoneketone (PEKPEKK), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), and blends thereof. 7. The composite material according to claim 1, wherein the functionalized PAEK particles are substantially spherical in shape. 8. The composite material according to claim 1, wherein said particles are substantially spherical in shape with an aspect ratio (R) of about 1 to 1.5. 9. The composite material according to claim 1, wherein the particles are substantially spherical particles having diameter of less than 75 μm. 10. The composite material according to claim 1, wherein said amine-functionalised polyaryletherketone polymer or copolymer thereof is polyetherketoneketone (PEKK) or an imide- or sulphone-copolymer thereof having an —NH2 end group and a T:I ratio within the range of 100:0 to 60:40. 11. The composite material according to claim 4, wherein at least one of R1 and R3 is the branch unit:
and
the branched unit(s) is/are present in a molar percentage of 0.5% to 25%. 12. The composite material according to claim 1, wherein the at least one thermoset resin is selected from the group consisting of: epoxides, bismaleimide, and benzoxazine. 13. The composite material according to claim 1,
wherein the reinforcement fibers are arranged as a plurality of fibrous layers, and at least one interlaminar region is created between two adjacent fibrous layers, and wherein the particles are positioned in the interlaminar region. 14. The composite material of claim 13, wherein the reinforcing fibers in each fibrous layer are unidirectional fibers. 15. The composite material of claim 13, wherein the reinforcing fibers in each fibrous layer are woven. 16. A structural adhesive composition comprising: at least one curable thermoset resin; a curing agent for the at least one thermoset resin; and particles of amine-functionalized polyaryletherketone (PAEK) polymer or copolymer thereof,
wherein the functionalized PAEK polymer or copolymer comprises amine functional groups capable of forming covalent bonds with the at least one thermoset resin. 17. The structural adhesive of claim 16, wherein the particles are substantially spherical in shape. 18. The structural adhesive of claim 16, wherein the amine functional groups of the PAEK polymer or copolymer are aromatic amine groups. 19. The structural adhesive of claim 18, wherein the aromatic amine groups are phenoxyaniline. 20. The structural adhesive according to claim 16, wherein the particles are comprised of a PAEK polymer selected from the group consisting of: polyetherketoneketone (PEKK), polyetherketone (PEK), polyetherketonepolyetherketoneketone (PEKPEKK), and polyetheretherketone (PEEK). 21. The structural adhesive according to claim 16, wherein the at least one thermoset resin is selected from the group consisting of: epoxides, bismaleimide, and benzoxazine. 22. A method for fabricating a composite laminate, said method comprising:
forming a plurality of prepregs, each prepreg comprising a layer of reinforcement fibres impregnated with a curable matrix resin and functionalized polymer particles of amine-functionalized polyaryletherketone (PAEK) positioned adjacent the layer of reinforcement fibers; and laying up the prepregs in a stacking arrangement such that an interlaminar region is defined between adjacent layers of reinforcement fibers, and the functionalized PAEK particles are positioned within said interlaminar region, wherein curable matrix resin comprises at least one thermoset resin, and wherein the functionalized polymer particles are particles of an amine-functionalised polyaryletherketone polymer or copolymer thereof which comprise amine functional groups capable of forming covalent bonds with the at least one thermoset resin. | Composite materials and structural adhesives containing particles of functionalized polymers as a toughening agent. The particles are composed of functionalized polyaryletherketone (PAEK) polymer or copolymer thereof that contain chemical functional groups capable of reacting with a thermoset resin component to form covalent bonds.1. A composite material comprising:
a curable thermoset matrix resin comprising at least one thermoset resin; reinforcement fibers impregnated with the matrix resin; particles of an amine-functionalised polyaryletherketone polymer or copolymer thereof, wherein the functionalized PAEK particles comprise amine functional groups capable of forming covalent bonds with the thermoset resin. 2. The composite material of claim 1, wherein said polyaryletherketone polymer or copolymer has one or more of the following aryletherketone repeat units:
—Ar—O—Ar—C(═O)— —Ar—O—Ar—C(═O)—Ar—C(═O)— —Ar—O—Ar—O—Ar—C(═O)— —Ar—O—Ar—O—Ar—C(═O)—Ar—C(═O)— —Ar—O—Ar—C(═O)—Ar—O—Ar—C(═O)—Ar—C(═O)— wherein each Ar is independently an aromatic moiety. 3. The composite material of claim 1, wherein the copolymer comprises an aryletherketone repeat unit and one or more of the following repeat units: 4. The composite material of claim 1, wherein the polymer or copolymer has the following structure:
where E is an amine functional group and n is an integer from 15 to 200. 5. The composite material of claim 4, wherein E is phenoxyaniline. 6. The composite material according to claim 1, wherein the PAEK particles comprise a PAEK polymer selected from the group consisting of: polyetherketoneketone (PEKK), polyetherketone (PEK), polyetherketonepolyetherketoneketone (PEKPEKK), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), and blends thereof. 7. The composite material according to claim 1, wherein the functionalized PAEK particles are substantially spherical in shape. 8. The composite material according to claim 1, wherein said particles are substantially spherical in shape with an aspect ratio (R) of about 1 to 1.5. 9. The composite material according to claim 1, wherein the particles are substantially spherical particles having diameter of less than 75 μm. 10. The composite material according to claim 1, wherein said amine-functionalised polyaryletherketone polymer or copolymer thereof is polyetherketoneketone (PEKK) or an imide- or sulphone-copolymer thereof having an —NH2 end group and a T:I ratio within the range of 100:0 to 60:40. 11. The composite material according to claim 4, wherein at least one of R1 and R3 is the branch unit:
and
the branched unit(s) is/are present in a molar percentage of 0.5% to 25%. 12. The composite material according to claim 1, wherein the at least one thermoset resin is selected from the group consisting of: epoxides, bismaleimide, and benzoxazine. 13. The composite material according to claim 1,
wherein the reinforcement fibers are arranged as a plurality of fibrous layers, and at least one interlaminar region is created between two adjacent fibrous layers, and wherein the particles are positioned in the interlaminar region. 14. The composite material of claim 13, wherein the reinforcing fibers in each fibrous layer are unidirectional fibers. 15. The composite material of claim 13, wherein the reinforcing fibers in each fibrous layer are woven. 16. A structural adhesive composition comprising: at least one curable thermoset resin; a curing agent for the at least one thermoset resin; and particles of amine-functionalized polyaryletherketone (PAEK) polymer or copolymer thereof,
wherein the functionalized PAEK polymer or copolymer comprises amine functional groups capable of forming covalent bonds with the at least one thermoset resin. 17. The structural adhesive of claim 16, wherein the particles are substantially spherical in shape. 18. The structural adhesive of claim 16, wherein the amine functional groups of the PAEK polymer or copolymer are aromatic amine groups. 19. The structural adhesive of claim 18, wherein the aromatic amine groups are phenoxyaniline. 20. The structural adhesive according to claim 16, wherein the particles are comprised of a PAEK polymer selected from the group consisting of: polyetherketoneketone (PEKK), polyetherketone (PEK), polyetherketonepolyetherketoneketone (PEKPEKK), and polyetheretherketone (PEEK). 21. The structural adhesive according to claim 16, wherein the at least one thermoset resin is selected from the group consisting of: epoxides, bismaleimide, and benzoxazine. 22. A method for fabricating a composite laminate, said method comprising:
forming a plurality of prepregs, each prepreg comprising a layer of reinforcement fibres impregnated with a curable matrix resin and functionalized polymer particles of amine-functionalized polyaryletherketone (PAEK) positioned adjacent the layer of reinforcement fibers; and laying up the prepregs in a stacking arrangement such that an interlaminar region is defined between adjacent layers of reinforcement fibers, and the functionalized PAEK particles are positioned within said interlaminar region, wherein curable matrix resin comprises at least one thermoset resin, and wherein the functionalized polymer particles are particles of an amine-functionalised polyaryletherketone polymer or copolymer thereof which comprise amine functional groups capable of forming covalent bonds with the at least one thermoset resin. | 1,700 |
4,031 | 14,867,065 | 1,734 | A segmented magnet is disclosed comprising first and second layers of permanent magnetic material and an insulating layer therebetween. The insulating layer may include a rare earth element and a ceramic mixture including at least first and second ceramic materials. The ceramic materials may include a halogen and an alkaline earth metal, alkali metal, or a metal having a +3 or +4 oxidation state. The rare earth element may comprise up to 30 wt. % of the insulating layer. The segmented magnet may be formed by applying the insulating layer to a first sintered permanent magnet layer, stacking a second sintered permanent magnet layer in contact with the insulating layer and spaced from the first sintered permanent magnet layer, and heating the formed magnet stack. The heating step may include annealing the magnet stack at an annealing temperature within 100° C. of the melting point of the ceramic mixture. | 1. A segmented magnet, comprising:
a first layer of permanent magnetic material; a second layer of permanent magnetic material; and an insulating layer separating the first and second layers and including a rare earth element and a ceramic mixture including at least first and second ceramic materials. 2. The magnet of claim 1, wherein the ceramic mixture has a melting point that is lower than a melting point of each of the first and second ceramic materials. 3. The magnet of claim 1, wherein the first or second ceramic material includes a compound having a formula of AH2, where A is an alkaline earth metal and H is a halogen. 4. The magnet of claim 1, wherein the first or second ceramic material includes a compound having a formula of MH3, where M is metal having a +3 oxidation state and H is a halogen. 5. The magnet of claim 1, wherein the first or second ceramic material includes a compound having a formula of BH, where B is an alkali metal and H is a halogen. 6. The magnet of claim 1, wherein the ceramic mixture has a melting point that is less than or equal to 1,000° C. 7. The magnet of claim 1, wherein the rare earth element is part of a rare earth alloy or a rare earth compound. 8. The magnet of claim 7, wherein the rare earth alloy includes one or more of NdCu, NdAl, DyCu, NdGa, PrAl, PrCu, or PrAg. 9. The magnet of claim 1, wherein the rare earth element comprises up to 20 wt. % of the insulating layer. 10. The magnet of claim 1, wherein the permanent magnetic material in the first and second layers is a Nd—Fe—B magnet and the rare earth element in the insulating layer is Nd. 11. A method of forming a segmented magnet, comprising:
applying an insulating layer to a first sintered permanent magnet layer, the insulating layer including a rare earth element and a ceramic mixture including at least first and second ceramic materials; stacking a second sintered permanent magnet layer in contact with the insulating layer and spaced from the first sintered permanent magnet layer to form a magnet stack; and heating the magnet stack. 12. The method of claim 11, wherein the first and second ceramic materials are selected from a group consisting of:
a compound having a formula of AH2, where A is an alkaline earth metal and H is a halogen; a compound having a formula of MH3, where M is metal having a +3 oxidation state and H is a halogen; and a compound having a formula of BH, where B is an alkali metal and H is a halogen. 13. The method of claim 11, wherein the ceramic mixture has a melting point that is lower than a melting point of each of the first and second ceramic materials. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the heating step includes annealing the magnet stack at an annealing temperature within 100° C. of the melting point of the ceramic mixture. 15. The method of claim 11, further comprising applying pressure to the magnet stack during the heating step. 16. The method of claim 11, further comprising sectioning the first and second sintered permanent magnet layers from a bulk sintered magnet prior to the applying step. 17. The method of claim 11, wherein the rare earth element comprises up to 30 wt. % of the insulating layer. 18. A segmented magnet, comprising:
a first layer of permanent magnetic material; a second layer of permanent magnetic material; and an insulating layer separating the first and second layers and including:
a rare earth element; and
a ceramic mixture including at least two ceramic materials in a eutectic system, the ceramic mixture having a melting point that is within 100° C. of a eutectic point temperature of the eutectic system. 19. The magnet of claim 18, wherein the eutectic system is a binary, ternary, or quaternary system. 20. The magnet of claim 18, wherein at least one of the at least two ceramic materials is selected from a group consisting of:
a compound having a formula of AH2, where A is an alkaline earth metal and H is a halogen; a compound having a formula of MH3, where M is metal having a +3 oxidation state and H is a halogen; and a compound having a formula of BH, where B is an alkali metal and H is a halogen. | A segmented magnet is disclosed comprising first and second layers of permanent magnetic material and an insulating layer therebetween. The insulating layer may include a rare earth element and a ceramic mixture including at least first and second ceramic materials. The ceramic materials may include a halogen and an alkaline earth metal, alkali metal, or a metal having a +3 or +4 oxidation state. The rare earth element may comprise up to 30 wt. % of the insulating layer. The segmented magnet may be formed by applying the insulating layer to a first sintered permanent magnet layer, stacking a second sintered permanent magnet layer in contact with the insulating layer and spaced from the first sintered permanent magnet layer, and heating the formed magnet stack. The heating step may include annealing the magnet stack at an annealing temperature within 100° C. of the melting point of the ceramic mixture.1. A segmented magnet, comprising:
a first layer of permanent magnetic material; a second layer of permanent magnetic material; and an insulating layer separating the first and second layers and including a rare earth element and a ceramic mixture including at least first and second ceramic materials. 2. The magnet of claim 1, wherein the ceramic mixture has a melting point that is lower than a melting point of each of the first and second ceramic materials. 3. The magnet of claim 1, wherein the first or second ceramic material includes a compound having a formula of AH2, where A is an alkaline earth metal and H is a halogen. 4. The magnet of claim 1, wherein the first or second ceramic material includes a compound having a formula of MH3, where M is metal having a +3 oxidation state and H is a halogen. 5. The magnet of claim 1, wherein the first or second ceramic material includes a compound having a formula of BH, where B is an alkali metal and H is a halogen. 6. The magnet of claim 1, wherein the ceramic mixture has a melting point that is less than or equal to 1,000° C. 7. The magnet of claim 1, wherein the rare earth element is part of a rare earth alloy or a rare earth compound. 8. The magnet of claim 7, wherein the rare earth alloy includes one or more of NdCu, NdAl, DyCu, NdGa, PrAl, PrCu, or PrAg. 9. The magnet of claim 1, wherein the rare earth element comprises up to 20 wt. % of the insulating layer. 10. The magnet of claim 1, wherein the permanent magnetic material in the first and second layers is a Nd—Fe—B magnet and the rare earth element in the insulating layer is Nd. 11. A method of forming a segmented magnet, comprising:
applying an insulating layer to a first sintered permanent magnet layer, the insulating layer including a rare earth element and a ceramic mixture including at least first and second ceramic materials; stacking a second sintered permanent magnet layer in contact with the insulating layer and spaced from the first sintered permanent magnet layer to form a magnet stack; and heating the magnet stack. 12. The method of claim 11, wherein the first and second ceramic materials are selected from a group consisting of:
a compound having a formula of AH2, where A is an alkaline earth metal and H is a halogen; a compound having a formula of MH3, where M is metal having a +3 oxidation state and H is a halogen; and a compound having a formula of BH, where B is an alkali metal and H is a halogen. 13. The method of claim 11, wherein the ceramic mixture has a melting point that is lower than a melting point of each of the first and second ceramic materials. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the heating step includes annealing the magnet stack at an annealing temperature within 100° C. of the melting point of the ceramic mixture. 15. The method of claim 11, further comprising applying pressure to the magnet stack during the heating step. 16. The method of claim 11, further comprising sectioning the first and second sintered permanent magnet layers from a bulk sintered magnet prior to the applying step. 17. The method of claim 11, wherein the rare earth element comprises up to 30 wt. % of the insulating layer. 18. A segmented magnet, comprising:
a first layer of permanent magnetic material; a second layer of permanent magnetic material; and an insulating layer separating the first and second layers and including:
a rare earth element; and
a ceramic mixture including at least two ceramic materials in a eutectic system, the ceramic mixture having a melting point that is within 100° C. of a eutectic point temperature of the eutectic system. 19. The magnet of claim 18, wherein the eutectic system is a binary, ternary, or quaternary system. 20. The magnet of claim 18, wherein at least one of the at least two ceramic materials is selected from a group consisting of:
a compound having a formula of AH2, where A is an alkaline earth metal and H is a halogen; a compound having a formula of MH3, where M is metal having a +3 oxidation state and H is a halogen; and a compound having a formula of BH, where B is an alkali metal and H is a halogen. | 1,700 |
4,032 | 15,900,940 | 1,791 | A solid preparation ready for consumption is proposed, where the surface has edible particles proportionately, which are fixed by means of a substance system that has a glass transition temperature between about 45 and about 75° C. | 1. A solid preparation ready for consumption, where a surface proportionately has edible particles, which are fixed by a fixing substance system having a glass transition temperature between about 45 and about 85° C., wherein the proportion of edible particles and fixing system together is about 1 to about 10 wt %, based on solid content. 2. The preparation of claim 1, in the form of nibbles. 3. The preparation of claim 1, wherein the edible particles are selected from the group consisting of dry products, spices, sweeteners and aromatic substances. 4. The preparation of claim 1, wherein the substance system comprises at least one carbohydrate. 5-15. (canceled) 16. The preparation of claim 1, which is a carbohydrate-containing product. 17. The preparation of claim 4, wherein the carbohydrate of the fixing system is selected from the group consisting of hydrolysed starches, mono- and disaccharides, sugar alcohols and mixtures thereof. 18. The preparation of claim 1, wherein the fixing system has a viscosity of less than 1000 mPas at a temperature of 170° C. 19. The preparation of claim 18, wherein the fixing system has a viscosity between about 50 and about 300 mPas at a temperature of 170° C. 20. A solid preparation ready for consumption, where a surface proportionately has edible particles, which are fixed by a fixing system having a glass transition temperature between about 30 and about 50° C., wherein the proportion of edible particles and fixing system together is about 1 to about 10 wt %, based on solid content. 21. The preparation of claim 1, wherein the fixing system further comprises one or more of the following components: preservatives, antioxidants, emulsifiers, sugar substitutes, sweeteners, edible acids, dyes, colourants, pigments, flavour enhancers, flavouring materials, flavourings, nutraceuticals, trace elements, minerals, vitamins, plant extracts and ballast substances. 22. A fixing system for edible particles, comprising at least one carbohydrate selected from the group consisting of hydrolysed starches, mono- and disaccharides, sugar alcohols and mixtures thereof, which has a glass transition temperature between about 45 and about 85° C. | A solid preparation ready for consumption is proposed, where the surface has edible particles proportionately, which are fixed by means of a substance system that has a glass transition temperature between about 45 and about 75° C.1. A solid preparation ready for consumption, where a surface proportionately has edible particles, which are fixed by a fixing substance system having a glass transition temperature between about 45 and about 85° C., wherein the proportion of edible particles and fixing system together is about 1 to about 10 wt %, based on solid content. 2. The preparation of claim 1, in the form of nibbles. 3. The preparation of claim 1, wherein the edible particles are selected from the group consisting of dry products, spices, sweeteners and aromatic substances. 4. The preparation of claim 1, wherein the substance system comprises at least one carbohydrate. 5-15. (canceled) 16. The preparation of claim 1, which is a carbohydrate-containing product. 17. The preparation of claim 4, wherein the carbohydrate of the fixing system is selected from the group consisting of hydrolysed starches, mono- and disaccharides, sugar alcohols and mixtures thereof. 18. The preparation of claim 1, wherein the fixing system has a viscosity of less than 1000 mPas at a temperature of 170° C. 19. The preparation of claim 18, wherein the fixing system has a viscosity between about 50 and about 300 mPas at a temperature of 170° C. 20. A solid preparation ready for consumption, where a surface proportionately has edible particles, which are fixed by a fixing system having a glass transition temperature between about 30 and about 50° C., wherein the proportion of edible particles and fixing system together is about 1 to about 10 wt %, based on solid content. 21. The preparation of claim 1, wherein the fixing system further comprises one or more of the following components: preservatives, antioxidants, emulsifiers, sugar substitutes, sweeteners, edible acids, dyes, colourants, pigments, flavour enhancers, flavouring materials, flavourings, nutraceuticals, trace elements, minerals, vitamins, plant extracts and ballast substances. 22. A fixing system for edible particles, comprising at least one carbohydrate selected from the group consisting of hydrolysed starches, mono- and disaccharides, sugar alcohols and mixtures thereof, which has a glass transition temperature between about 45 and about 85° C. | 1,700 |
4,033 | 14,223,192 | 1,795 | Apparatus, systems, and methods for capacitive desalination using segmented electrodes in a flow-through or flow-between configuration. The segmented electrodes constitute layered stack electrode units. Each electrode includes pores into which the target salt water flows. An electrical circuit energizes the electrodes and produces an electrical field acting on the target salt water producing desalted water. The segmented electrodes provide ultra-thin cells into a robust framework necessary for desalination applications which yield orders of magnitude faster desalination. | 1. A capacitive desalination apparatus, comprising:
a target solution containing salt; regeneration water; a first electrode conductor unit made of a first multiplicity of individual layers having first pores; a second electrode conductor unit made of a second multiplicity of individual layers having second pores; a voltage system for applying a voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit; and a pump for in one step pumping said regeneration water into said first pores of said first multiplicity of individual layers and said second pores of said second multiplicity of individual layers while said voltage system does not apply a voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit thereby regenerating said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit, and in another step pumping said target salt solution into said first pores of said first multiplicity of individual layers and into said second multiplicity of individual layers while said voltage system applies voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit thereby causing at least a portion of said salt to be adsorbed in said first pores and said second pores providing desalination of said target salt solution. 2. The capacitive desalination apparatus of claim 1 wherein said first electrode conductor unit includes a multiple of first layered electrode stacks and wherein said second electrode conductor unit includes a multiple of second layered electrode stacks. 3. The capacitive desalination apparatus of claim 1 wherein said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit are positioned so that said pump pumps said target salt solution through said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit. 4. The capacitive desalination apparatus of claim 1 wherein said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit are positioned so that said pump pumps said target salt solution between said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit and into said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit. 5. A flow through capacitive desalination apparatus, comprising:
a target solution containing salt; regeneration water; a first electrode conductor unit made of a first multiplicity of individual layers having first pores; a second electrode conductor unit made of a second multiplicity of individual layers having second pores, wherein said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit are aligned; a voltage system for applying a voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit; and a pump for in one step pumping said target salt solution through said aligned first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit, wherein said target salt solution is pumped into said first pores of said first multiplicity of individual layers and into said second pores of said first multiplicity of individual layers while said voltage system applies voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit thereby causing at least a portion of said salt to be adsorbed in said first pores and said second pores providing desalination of said target salt solution, and in another step pumping said regeneration water through said aligned first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit, wherein said regeneration water is pumped into said first pores of said first multiplicity of individual layers and into said second pores of said first multiplicity of individual layers while said voltage system does not apply a voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit thereby regenerating said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit. 6. The flow through capacitive desalination apparatus of claim 5 wherein said first electrode conductor unit includes a multiple of first layered electrode stacks and wherein said second electrode conductor unit includes a multiple of second layered electrode stacks. 7. The now through capacitive desalination apparatus of claim 5, further comprising a permeable non electrical conduction separator positioned between said aligned first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit. 8. A flow between capacitive desalination apparatus, comprising:
a target solution containing salt; regeneration water; a first electrode conductor unit made of a first multiplicity of individual layers having first pores; a second electrode conductor unit made of a second multiplicity of individual layers having second pores, wherein said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit are positioned adjacent each other with a gap between said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit; a voltage system for applying a voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit; and a pump for in one step pumping said target salt solution into said gap between said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit and into said first pores of said first multiplicity of individual layers and into said second pores of said second multiplicity of individual layers while said voltage system applies voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit thereby causing at least a portion of said salt to be adsorbed in said first pores and said second pores providing desalination of said target salt solution, and in another step pumping said regeneration water into said gap between said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit and into said first pores of said first multiplicity of individual layers and into said second pores of said second multiplicity of individual layers while said voltage system does not apply a voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit thereby regenerating said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit. 9. The flow between capacitive desalination apparatus of claim 8, wherein said first electrode conductor unit includes a multiple of first layered electrode stacks and wherein said second electrode conductor unit includes a multiple of second layered electrode stacks. 10. The flow between capacitive desalination apparatus of claim 8, further comprising a permeable non electrical conduction separator positioned between said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit in said gap between said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit. 11. A method of capacitive desalination, comprising the steps of:
providing a target solution containing salt; providing regeneration water; providing a first electrode conductor unit made of a first multiplicity of individual layers having first pores; providing a second electrode conductor unit made of a second multiplicity of individual layers having second pores; aligning said first electrode conductor unit with said second electrode conductor unit; providing a voltage system for applying a voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit; in one step pumping said target salt solution through said aligned first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit and into said first pores of said first multiplicity of individual layers and into said second pores of said second multiplicity of individual layers while said voltage system applies voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit thereby causing at least a portion of said salt to be adsorbed in said first pores and said second pores providing desalination of said target salt solution, and in another step pumping said regeneration water through said aligned first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit and into said first pores of said first multiplicity of individual layers and into said second pores of said second multiplicity of individual layers while said voltage system does not apply a voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit thereby regenerating said first electrode conductor and said second electrode conductor unit. 12. A method of capacitive desalination, comprising the steps of:
providing a target solution, containing salt; providing regeneration water; providing a first electrode conductor unit made of a first multiplicity of individual layers having first pores; providing a second electrode conductor unit made of a second multiplicity of individual layers having second pores; positioning said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit adjacent each other with a gap between said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit; providing a voltage system for applying a voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit; and in one step pumping said target salt solution into said gab between said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit and into said first pores of said first multiplicity of individual layers and into said second pores of said first multiplicity of individual layers while said voltage system applies voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit thereby causing at least a portion of said salt to be adsorbed in said first pores and said second pores providing desalination of said target salt solution, and in another step pumping said regeneration water into said gab between said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit and into said first pores of said first multiplicity of individual layers and into said second pores of said second multiplicity of individual layers while said voltage system does not apply a voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit thereby regenerating said first electrode conductor and said second electrode conductor. 13. A method of fabricating a capacitive desalination system using regeneration water and a target salt solution, comprising the steps of:
fabricating a first electrode conductor unit made of a first multiplicity of individual layers having first pores; fabricating a second electrode conductor unit made of a second multiplicity of individual layers having second pores; positioning said first electrode conductor unit adjacent said second electrode conductor unit; connecting a voltage system to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit; and connecting a pumping system to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit, wherein in one operation the regeneration water is pumped into said first pores of said first multiplicity of individual layers and said second pores of said second multiplicity of individual layers while said voltage system does not apply a voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit thereby regenerating said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit, and in another operation pumping the target salt solution into said first pores of said first multiplicity of individual layers and into said second multiplicity of individual layers while said voltage system applies voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit thereby causing at least a portion of said salt to be adsorbed in said first pores and said second pores providing desalination of said target salt solution. 14. The method of fabricating a capacitive desalination system using regeneration water and a target salt solution of claim 13 wherein said step of fabricating a first electrode conductor unit includes fabricating a multiple of first layered electrode stacks and wherein said step of fabricating a second electrode conductor unit includes fabricating a multiple of second layered electrode stacks. 15. A method of fabricating a flow through capacitive desalination system using regeneration water and a target salt solution, comprising the steps of:
fabricating a first electrode conductor unit made of a first multiplicity of individual layers having first pores; fabricating a second electrode conductor unit made of a second multiplicity of individual layers having second pores; positioning said first electrode conductor unit adjacent said second electrode conductor unit with a multiplicity of flow channels in said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit; connecting a voltage system to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit; and connecting a pumping system to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit, wherein in one operation the regeneration water is pumped into said first pores of said first multiplicity of individual layers and said second pores of said second multiplicity of individual layers while said voltage system does not apply a voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit thereby regenerating said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit, and in another operation pumping the target salt solution into said first pores of said first multiplicity of individual layers and into said second multiplicity of individual layers while said voltage system applies voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit thereby causing at least a portion of said salt to he adsorbed in said first pores and said second pores providing desalination of said target salt solution. 16. The method of fabricating a flow through capacitive desalination system using regeneration water and a target salt solution of claim 15 wherein said step of fabricating a first electrode conductor unit includes fabricating a multiple of first layered electrode stacks and wherein said step of fabricating a second electrode conductor unit includes fabricating a multiple of second layered electrode stacks. 17. A method of fabricating a flow between capacitive desalination system using regeneration water and a target salt solution, comprising the steps of:
fabricating a first electrode conductor unit made of a first multiplicity of individual layers having first pores; fabricating a second electrode conductor unit made of a second multiplicity of individual layers having second pores,; positioning said first electrode conductor unit adjacent said second electrode conductor unit with a multiplicity of flow channels between said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit; connecting a voltage system to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit; and connecting a pumping system to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit, wherein in one operation the regeneration water is pumped into said first pores of said first multiplicity of individual layers and said second pores of said second multiplicity of individual layers while said voltage system does not apply a voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit thereby regenerating said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit, and in another operation pumping the target salt solution into said first pores of said first multiplicity of individual layers and into said second multiplicity of individual layers while said voltage system applies voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit thereby causing at least a portion of said salt to be adsorbed in said first pores and said second pores providing desalination of said target salt solution. 18. The method of fabricating a flow between capacitive desalination system using regeneration water and a target salt solution of claim 17 wherein said step of fabricating a first electrode conductor unit includes fabricating a multiple of first layered electrode stacks and wherein said step of fabricating a second electrode conductor unit includes fabricating a multiple of second layered electrode stacks. | Apparatus, systems, and methods for capacitive desalination using segmented electrodes in a flow-through or flow-between configuration. The segmented electrodes constitute layered stack electrode units. Each electrode includes pores into which the target salt water flows. An electrical circuit energizes the electrodes and produces an electrical field acting on the target salt water producing desalted water. The segmented electrodes provide ultra-thin cells into a robust framework necessary for desalination applications which yield orders of magnitude faster desalination.1. A capacitive desalination apparatus, comprising:
a target solution containing salt; regeneration water; a first electrode conductor unit made of a first multiplicity of individual layers having first pores; a second electrode conductor unit made of a second multiplicity of individual layers having second pores; a voltage system for applying a voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit; and a pump for in one step pumping said regeneration water into said first pores of said first multiplicity of individual layers and said second pores of said second multiplicity of individual layers while said voltage system does not apply a voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit thereby regenerating said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit, and in another step pumping said target salt solution into said first pores of said first multiplicity of individual layers and into said second multiplicity of individual layers while said voltage system applies voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit thereby causing at least a portion of said salt to be adsorbed in said first pores and said second pores providing desalination of said target salt solution. 2. The capacitive desalination apparatus of claim 1 wherein said first electrode conductor unit includes a multiple of first layered electrode stacks and wherein said second electrode conductor unit includes a multiple of second layered electrode stacks. 3. The capacitive desalination apparatus of claim 1 wherein said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit are positioned so that said pump pumps said target salt solution through said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit. 4. The capacitive desalination apparatus of claim 1 wherein said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit are positioned so that said pump pumps said target salt solution between said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit and into said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit. 5. A flow through capacitive desalination apparatus, comprising:
a target solution containing salt; regeneration water; a first electrode conductor unit made of a first multiplicity of individual layers having first pores; a second electrode conductor unit made of a second multiplicity of individual layers having second pores, wherein said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit are aligned; a voltage system for applying a voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit; and a pump for in one step pumping said target salt solution through said aligned first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit, wherein said target salt solution is pumped into said first pores of said first multiplicity of individual layers and into said second pores of said first multiplicity of individual layers while said voltage system applies voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit thereby causing at least a portion of said salt to be adsorbed in said first pores and said second pores providing desalination of said target salt solution, and in another step pumping said regeneration water through said aligned first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit, wherein said regeneration water is pumped into said first pores of said first multiplicity of individual layers and into said second pores of said first multiplicity of individual layers while said voltage system does not apply a voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit thereby regenerating said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit. 6. The flow through capacitive desalination apparatus of claim 5 wherein said first electrode conductor unit includes a multiple of first layered electrode stacks and wherein said second electrode conductor unit includes a multiple of second layered electrode stacks. 7. The now through capacitive desalination apparatus of claim 5, further comprising a permeable non electrical conduction separator positioned between said aligned first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit. 8. A flow between capacitive desalination apparatus, comprising:
a target solution containing salt; regeneration water; a first electrode conductor unit made of a first multiplicity of individual layers having first pores; a second electrode conductor unit made of a second multiplicity of individual layers having second pores, wherein said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit are positioned adjacent each other with a gap between said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit; a voltage system for applying a voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit; and a pump for in one step pumping said target salt solution into said gap between said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit and into said first pores of said first multiplicity of individual layers and into said second pores of said second multiplicity of individual layers while said voltage system applies voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit thereby causing at least a portion of said salt to be adsorbed in said first pores and said second pores providing desalination of said target salt solution, and in another step pumping said regeneration water into said gap between said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit and into said first pores of said first multiplicity of individual layers and into said second pores of said second multiplicity of individual layers while said voltage system does not apply a voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit thereby regenerating said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit. 9. The flow between capacitive desalination apparatus of claim 8, wherein said first electrode conductor unit includes a multiple of first layered electrode stacks and wherein said second electrode conductor unit includes a multiple of second layered electrode stacks. 10. The flow between capacitive desalination apparatus of claim 8, further comprising a permeable non electrical conduction separator positioned between said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit in said gap between said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit. 11. A method of capacitive desalination, comprising the steps of:
providing a target solution containing salt; providing regeneration water; providing a first electrode conductor unit made of a first multiplicity of individual layers having first pores; providing a second electrode conductor unit made of a second multiplicity of individual layers having second pores; aligning said first electrode conductor unit with said second electrode conductor unit; providing a voltage system for applying a voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit; in one step pumping said target salt solution through said aligned first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit and into said first pores of said first multiplicity of individual layers and into said second pores of said second multiplicity of individual layers while said voltage system applies voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit thereby causing at least a portion of said salt to be adsorbed in said first pores and said second pores providing desalination of said target salt solution, and in another step pumping said regeneration water through said aligned first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit and into said first pores of said first multiplicity of individual layers and into said second pores of said second multiplicity of individual layers while said voltage system does not apply a voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit thereby regenerating said first electrode conductor and said second electrode conductor unit. 12. A method of capacitive desalination, comprising the steps of:
providing a target solution, containing salt; providing regeneration water; providing a first electrode conductor unit made of a first multiplicity of individual layers having first pores; providing a second electrode conductor unit made of a second multiplicity of individual layers having second pores; positioning said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit adjacent each other with a gap between said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit; providing a voltage system for applying a voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit; and in one step pumping said target salt solution into said gab between said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit and into said first pores of said first multiplicity of individual layers and into said second pores of said first multiplicity of individual layers while said voltage system applies voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit thereby causing at least a portion of said salt to be adsorbed in said first pores and said second pores providing desalination of said target salt solution, and in another step pumping said regeneration water into said gab between said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit and into said first pores of said first multiplicity of individual layers and into said second pores of said second multiplicity of individual layers while said voltage system does not apply a voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit thereby regenerating said first electrode conductor and said second electrode conductor. 13. A method of fabricating a capacitive desalination system using regeneration water and a target salt solution, comprising the steps of:
fabricating a first electrode conductor unit made of a first multiplicity of individual layers having first pores; fabricating a second electrode conductor unit made of a second multiplicity of individual layers having second pores; positioning said first electrode conductor unit adjacent said second electrode conductor unit; connecting a voltage system to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit; and connecting a pumping system to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit, wherein in one operation the regeneration water is pumped into said first pores of said first multiplicity of individual layers and said second pores of said second multiplicity of individual layers while said voltage system does not apply a voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit thereby regenerating said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit, and in another operation pumping the target salt solution into said first pores of said first multiplicity of individual layers and into said second multiplicity of individual layers while said voltage system applies voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit thereby causing at least a portion of said salt to be adsorbed in said first pores and said second pores providing desalination of said target salt solution. 14. The method of fabricating a capacitive desalination system using regeneration water and a target salt solution of claim 13 wherein said step of fabricating a first electrode conductor unit includes fabricating a multiple of first layered electrode stacks and wherein said step of fabricating a second electrode conductor unit includes fabricating a multiple of second layered electrode stacks. 15. A method of fabricating a flow through capacitive desalination system using regeneration water and a target salt solution, comprising the steps of:
fabricating a first electrode conductor unit made of a first multiplicity of individual layers having first pores; fabricating a second electrode conductor unit made of a second multiplicity of individual layers having second pores; positioning said first electrode conductor unit adjacent said second electrode conductor unit with a multiplicity of flow channels in said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit; connecting a voltage system to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit; and connecting a pumping system to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit, wherein in one operation the regeneration water is pumped into said first pores of said first multiplicity of individual layers and said second pores of said second multiplicity of individual layers while said voltage system does not apply a voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit thereby regenerating said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit, and in another operation pumping the target salt solution into said first pores of said first multiplicity of individual layers and into said second multiplicity of individual layers while said voltage system applies voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit thereby causing at least a portion of said salt to he adsorbed in said first pores and said second pores providing desalination of said target salt solution. 16. The method of fabricating a flow through capacitive desalination system using regeneration water and a target salt solution of claim 15 wherein said step of fabricating a first electrode conductor unit includes fabricating a multiple of first layered electrode stacks and wherein said step of fabricating a second electrode conductor unit includes fabricating a multiple of second layered electrode stacks. 17. A method of fabricating a flow between capacitive desalination system using regeneration water and a target salt solution, comprising the steps of:
fabricating a first electrode conductor unit made of a first multiplicity of individual layers having first pores; fabricating a second electrode conductor unit made of a second multiplicity of individual layers having second pores,; positioning said first electrode conductor unit adjacent said second electrode conductor unit with a multiplicity of flow channels between said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit; connecting a voltage system to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit; and connecting a pumping system to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit, wherein in one operation the regeneration water is pumped into said first pores of said first multiplicity of individual layers and said second pores of said second multiplicity of individual layers while said voltage system does not apply a voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit thereby regenerating said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit, and in another operation pumping the target salt solution into said first pores of said first multiplicity of individual layers and into said second multiplicity of individual layers while said voltage system applies voltage to said first electrode conductor unit and said second electrode conductor unit thereby causing at least a portion of said salt to be adsorbed in said first pores and said second pores providing desalination of said target salt solution. 18. The method of fabricating a flow between capacitive desalination system using regeneration water and a target salt solution of claim 17 wherein said step of fabricating a first electrode conductor unit includes fabricating a multiple of first layered electrode stacks and wherein said step of fabricating a second electrode conductor unit includes fabricating a multiple of second layered electrode stacks. | 1,700 |
4,034 | 13,860,882 | 1,792 | Described are flour-based oil-in-water emulsion compositions, packaged emulsion compositions, and related methods, the emulsions being refrigerator stable in a non-pressurized package and optionally containing ingredients that include glucose oxidase, the package optionally being re-sealable. | 1. An edible oil-in-water emulsion comprising flour, sugar, acidic chemical leavening agent, basic chemical leavening agent, oil, water, and emulsifier, having a water activity below about 0.93 and having a yield point of not greater than 20 Pascals. 2. An edible oil-in-water emulsion comprising flour, sugar, acidic chemical leavening agent, basic chemical leavening agent, oil, water, and emulsifier, having a water activity below about 0.93 and having a sugar to water ratio in a range from 0.3/1 to 0.9/1. 3. An emulsion as recited at claim 1 wherein the sugar consists essentially of mono-saccharides, di-saccharides, and combinations thereof. 4. An emulsion as recited at claim 1 wherein the sugar consists essentially of sucrose, glucose, fructose, and combinations thereof. 5. An emulsion as recited at claim 1 comprising non-sugar water-activity reducing agent consisting essentially of polyhydric alcohol having six or fewer carbon atoms. 6. An emulsion as recited at claim 1 comprising non-sugar water-activity reducing agent consisting essentially of polyhydric alcohol selected from glycerol, sorbitol, and combinations thereof. 7. An emulsion as recited at claim 1 having a water activity below 0.93. 8. An emulsion as recited at claim 1 having a water activity in a range from about 0.90 to about 0.92. 9. An emulsion as recited at claim 1 wherein the pancake batter exhibits a yield point of not greater than 20 Pascals after a refrigerated storage period of four weeks. 10. An emulsion as recited at claim 1 comprising:
from about 23 to about 27 weight percent flour,
from about 3 to about 7 weight percent sugar,
from about 9 to about 13 weight percent non-sugar water-activity reducing agent,
from about 0.4 to about 1 weight percent acidic chemical leavening agent,
from about 0.5 to about 1 weight percent basic chemical leavening agent,
from about 6 to about 10 weight percent oil, and
from about 36 to about 40 weight percent water. 11-15. (canceled) 16. An emulsion as recited at claim 1 comprising oxidoreductase enzyme. 17. An emulsion as recited at claim 16 wherein the oxidoreductase enzyme is glucose oxidase enzyme. 18. (canceled) 19. An emulsion as recited at claim 1 having a sugar to water ratio in a range from 0.3/1 to 0.9/1. 20. (canceled) 21. An emulsion as recited at claim 1 contained in a re-sealable package, the packaging containing the batter and less than 20 percent headspace. 22-32. (canceled) 33. A method of using a packaged emulsion product, the packaged emulsion product comprising a package comprising a re-sealable closure and an internal volume that contains oil-in-water emulsion comprising flour, sugar, non-sugar water-activity reducing agent, acidic chemical leavening agent, basic chemical leavening agent, oil, water, and emulsifier, in the form of a stable oil-in-water emulsion, the method comprising:
opening the package by opening a re-sealable closure, removing a portion of the emulsion from the package in a manner that increases headspace in the package, allowing air to fill the increased headspace, re-closing the re-sealable closure so the package contains the increased headspace filled with air, and storing the re-closed package at a refrigerated condition. 34. A method according to claim 33 wherein the re-closed package is stored for a refrigeration period of at least 2, 4, or 6 weeks. 35. A method according to claim 33 wherein, before opening the package, the sealed filled package contains the batter and not more than 15 percent initial headspace. 36. A method according to claim 33 wherein the removing step comprises squeezing sides of the package to reduce an interior volume of the package and cause the emulsion to flow through the opened closure. 37. A method according to claim 36 wherein
after the sides of the package are squeezed and batter is removed, the interior volume increases and draws air into the interior volume through the opened closure, and the method comprises re-closing the re-sealable closure after the emulsion is removed. 38-47. (canceled) | Described are flour-based oil-in-water emulsion compositions, packaged emulsion compositions, and related methods, the emulsions being refrigerator stable in a non-pressurized package and optionally containing ingredients that include glucose oxidase, the package optionally being re-sealable.1. An edible oil-in-water emulsion comprising flour, sugar, acidic chemical leavening agent, basic chemical leavening agent, oil, water, and emulsifier, having a water activity below about 0.93 and having a yield point of not greater than 20 Pascals. 2. An edible oil-in-water emulsion comprising flour, sugar, acidic chemical leavening agent, basic chemical leavening agent, oil, water, and emulsifier, having a water activity below about 0.93 and having a sugar to water ratio in a range from 0.3/1 to 0.9/1. 3. An emulsion as recited at claim 1 wherein the sugar consists essentially of mono-saccharides, di-saccharides, and combinations thereof. 4. An emulsion as recited at claim 1 wherein the sugar consists essentially of sucrose, glucose, fructose, and combinations thereof. 5. An emulsion as recited at claim 1 comprising non-sugar water-activity reducing agent consisting essentially of polyhydric alcohol having six or fewer carbon atoms. 6. An emulsion as recited at claim 1 comprising non-sugar water-activity reducing agent consisting essentially of polyhydric alcohol selected from glycerol, sorbitol, and combinations thereof. 7. An emulsion as recited at claim 1 having a water activity below 0.93. 8. An emulsion as recited at claim 1 having a water activity in a range from about 0.90 to about 0.92. 9. An emulsion as recited at claim 1 wherein the pancake batter exhibits a yield point of not greater than 20 Pascals after a refrigerated storage period of four weeks. 10. An emulsion as recited at claim 1 comprising:
from about 23 to about 27 weight percent flour,
from about 3 to about 7 weight percent sugar,
from about 9 to about 13 weight percent non-sugar water-activity reducing agent,
from about 0.4 to about 1 weight percent acidic chemical leavening agent,
from about 0.5 to about 1 weight percent basic chemical leavening agent,
from about 6 to about 10 weight percent oil, and
from about 36 to about 40 weight percent water. 11-15. (canceled) 16. An emulsion as recited at claim 1 comprising oxidoreductase enzyme. 17. An emulsion as recited at claim 16 wherein the oxidoreductase enzyme is glucose oxidase enzyme. 18. (canceled) 19. An emulsion as recited at claim 1 having a sugar to water ratio in a range from 0.3/1 to 0.9/1. 20. (canceled) 21. An emulsion as recited at claim 1 contained in a re-sealable package, the packaging containing the batter and less than 20 percent headspace. 22-32. (canceled) 33. A method of using a packaged emulsion product, the packaged emulsion product comprising a package comprising a re-sealable closure and an internal volume that contains oil-in-water emulsion comprising flour, sugar, non-sugar water-activity reducing agent, acidic chemical leavening agent, basic chemical leavening agent, oil, water, and emulsifier, in the form of a stable oil-in-water emulsion, the method comprising:
opening the package by opening a re-sealable closure, removing a portion of the emulsion from the package in a manner that increases headspace in the package, allowing air to fill the increased headspace, re-closing the re-sealable closure so the package contains the increased headspace filled with air, and storing the re-closed package at a refrigerated condition. 34. A method according to claim 33 wherein the re-closed package is stored for a refrigeration period of at least 2, 4, or 6 weeks. 35. A method according to claim 33 wherein, before opening the package, the sealed filled package contains the batter and not more than 15 percent initial headspace. 36. A method according to claim 33 wherein the removing step comprises squeezing sides of the package to reduce an interior volume of the package and cause the emulsion to flow through the opened closure. 37. A method according to claim 36 wherein
after the sides of the package are squeezed and batter is removed, the interior volume increases and draws air into the interior volume through the opened closure, and the method comprises re-closing the re-sealable closure after the emulsion is removed. 38-47. (canceled) | 1,700 |
4,035 | 15,253,770 | 1,745 | A foam seating article includes an outer foam layer molded around an inner core of molded foam or expanded polystyrene that includes a lumbar support protrusion. The lumbar support protrusion has a convex outer surface disposed inside the seat back area of the outer foam layer and that is not visible on the outer contour of the seat back area. The inner core is made from polyurethane polyol and methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) and has a hardness greater than 25 Shore A and a density less than two pounds per cubic foot. The polymer material of the inner core has a hardness greater than that of the outer foam. The outer layer of molded foam is high density (HD) foam, memory foam or latex foam. A fabric covering encloses the inner core and molded outer foam layer. The foam seating article can be a chair, sofa, chaise lounge or bench. | 1-36. (canceled) 37. A method of manufacturing a seating article, comprising:
molding a foam core of foam having a first hardness, wherein a portion of the foam core forms a seat back, and wherein a lumbar support protrusion is disposed on the seat back portion of the foam core; placing the foam core in a mold; molding an outer layer of foam completely around the foam core, wherein the outer layer of foam has a second hardness, and wherein the first hardness is greater than the second hardness; and placing a covering around the outer layer of foam and the foam core. 38. The method of claim 37, wherein the first hardness is greater than 25 Shore A, and the second hardness is less than 20 Shore A. 39. The method of claim 37, wherein the lumbar support protrusion is disposed inside a seat back area of the outer layer of foam. 40. The method of claim 37, wherein the lumbar support protrusion has a convex outer surface. 41. The method of claim 39, wherein the seat back area has an outer contour adapted to face the lower back of an occupant of the seating article, and wherein the lumbar support protrusion is not visible on the outer contour of the seat back area of the outer layer of foam. 42. The method of claim 37, further comprising:
gluing a layer of memory foam on top of the outer layer of foam, wherein the covering encloses the layer of memory foam. 43. The method of claim 37, wherein the lumbar support protrusion has a convexity shaped to conform to a lordotic curve portion of a seated person's spine. 44. The method of claim 37, wherein the outer layer of foam is taken from the group consisting of: HD foam, memory foam and latex foam. 45. The method of claim 37, wherein wherein the foam core is made of a polyether-derived polyurethane polyol and methylene diphenyl diisocyanate. 46. The method of claim 37, wherein the foam core contains between 100 kg and 120 kg of methylene diphenyl diisocyanate for every 100 kg of polyether-derived polyurethane polyol. 47. A method comprising:
molding a foam core of foam having a hardness of greater than 25 Shore A, wherein a portion of the foam core forms a seat back, and wherein a lumbar support protrusion is disposed on the seat back portion of the foam core; placing the foam core in a mold; molding an outer layer of foam completely around the foam core, wherein the outer layer of foam has a hardness of 25 Shore A or less; and placing a covering around the outer layer of foam and the foam core. 48. The method of claim 47, further comprising:
gluing a layer of memory foam on top of the outer layer of foam, wherein the covering encloses the layer of memory foam. 49. The method of claim 47, wherein the lumbar support protrusion is disposed inside a seat back area of the outer layer of foam. 50. The method of claim 49, wherein the seat back area has an outer contour, and wherein the lumbar support protrusion is not visible on the outer contour of the seat back area of the outer layer of foam. 51. The method of claim 47, wherein the lumbar support protrusion has a convex outer surface. 52. The method of claim 47, wherein the foam core is made of a polyether-derived polyurethane polyol and methylene diphenyl diisocyanate. 53. The method of claim 52, wherein the foam core contains between 100 kg and 120 kg of the methylene diphenyl diisocyanate for every 100 kg of the polyether-derived polyurethane polyol. 54. The method of claim 47, wherein the outer layer of foam is taken from the group consisting of: HD foam, memory foam and latex foam. 55. The method of claim 47, wherein the lumbar support protrusion has a convexity shaped to conform to a lordotic curve portion of a seated person's spine. 56. The method of claim 47, wherein the outer layer of foam has a hardness of less than 20 Shore A. | A foam seating article includes an outer foam layer molded around an inner core of molded foam or expanded polystyrene that includes a lumbar support protrusion. The lumbar support protrusion has a convex outer surface disposed inside the seat back area of the outer foam layer and that is not visible on the outer contour of the seat back area. The inner core is made from polyurethane polyol and methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) and has a hardness greater than 25 Shore A and a density less than two pounds per cubic foot. The polymer material of the inner core has a hardness greater than that of the outer foam. The outer layer of molded foam is high density (HD) foam, memory foam or latex foam. A fabric covering encloses the inner core and molded outer foam layer. The foam seating article can be a chair, sofa, chaise lounge or bench.1-36. (canceled) 37. A method of manufacturing a seating article, comprising:
molding a foam core of foam having a first hardness, wherein a portion of the foam core forms a seat back, and wherein a lumbar support protrusion is disposed on the seat back portion of the foam core; placing the foam core in a mold; molding an outer layer of foam completely around the foam core, wherein the outer layer of foam has a second hardness, and wherein the first hardness is greater than the second hardness; and placing a covering around the outer layer of foam and the foam core. 38. The method of claim 37, wherein the first hardness is greater than 25 Shore A, and the second hardness is less than 20 Shore A. 39. The method of claim 37, wherein the lumbar support protrusion is disposed inside a seat back area of the outer layer of foam. 40. The method of claim 37, wherein the lumbar support protrusion has a convex outer surface. 41. The method of claim 39, wherein the seat back area has an outer contour adapted to face the lower back of an occupant of the seating article, and wherein the lumbar support protrusion is not visible on the outer contour of the seat back area of the outer layer of foam. 42. The method of claim 37, further comprising:
gluing a layer of memory foam on top of the outer layer of foam, wherein the covering encloses the layer of memory foam. 43. The method of claim 37, wherein the lumbar support protrusion has a convexity shaped to conform to a lordotic curve portion of a seated person's spine. 44. The method of claim 37, wherein the outer layer of foam is taken from the group consisting of: HD foam, memory foam and latex foam. 45. The method of claim 37, wherein wherein the foam core is made of a polyether-derived polyurethane polyol and methylene diphenyl diisocyanate. 46. The method of claim 37, wherein the foam core contains between 100 kg and 120 kg of methylene diphenyl diisocyanate for every 100 kg of polyether-derived polyurethane polyol. 47. A method comprising:
molding a foam core of foam having a hardness of greater than 25 Shore A, wherein a portion of the foam core forms a seat back, and wherein a lumbar support protrusion is disposed on the seat back portion of the foam core; placing the foam core in a mold; molding an outer layer of foam completely around the foam core, wherein the outer layer of foam has a hardness of 25 Shore A or less; and placing a covering around the outer layer of foam and the foam core. 48. The method of claim 47, further comprising:
gluing a layer of memory foam on top of the outer layer of foam, wherein the covering encloses the layer of memory foam. 49. The method of claim 47, wherein the lumbar support protrusion is disposed inside a seat back area of the outer layer of foam. 50. The method of claim 49, wherein the seat back area has an outer contour, and wherein the lumbar support protrusion is not visible on the outer contour of the seat back area of the outer layer of foam. 51. The method of claim 47, wherein the lumbar support protrusion has a convex outer surface. 52. The method of claim 47, wherein the foam core is made of a polyether-derived polyurethane polyol and methylene diphenyl diisocyanate. 53. The method of claim 52, wherein the foam core contains between 100 kg and 120 kg of the methylene diphenyl diisocyanate for every 100 kg of the polyether-derived polyurethane polyol. 54. The method of claim 47, wherein the outer layer of foam is taken from the group consisting of: HD foam, memory foam and latex foam. 55. The method of claim 47, wherein the lumbar support protrusion has a convexity shaped to conform to a lordotic curve portion of a seated person's spine. 56. The method of claim 47, wherein the outer layer of foam has a hardness of less than 20 Shore A. | 1,700 |
4,036 | 13,583,024 | 1,771 | A method of reducing deposits in a diesel engine, the method comprising combusting in the engine a diesel fuel composition comprising a detergent additive which is not a quaternary ammonium salt or a Mannich reaction product; and a quaternary ammonium salt additive comprising the reaction product of nitrogen containing species having at least one tertiary amine group and a quaternizing agent; wherein the nitrogen containing species is selected from: (i) the reaction product of a hydrocarbyl-substituted acylating agent and a compound comprising at least one tertiary amine group and a primary amine, secondary amine or alcohol group; (ii) a Mannich reaction product comprising a tertiary amine group; and (v) a polyalkylene substituted amine having at least one tertiary amine group. | 1. A method of reducing deposits in a diesel engine, the method comprising, combusting in the engine a diesel fuel composition comprising a detergent additive which is not a quaternary ammonium salt or a Mannich reaction product; and a quaternary ammonium salt additive comprising the reaction product of nitrogen containing species having at least one tertiary amine group and a quaternizing agent; *herein the nitrogen containing species is selected from:
(i) the reaction product of a hydrocarbyl-substituted acylating agent and a compound comprising at least one tertiary amine group and a primary amine, secondary amine or alcohol group; (ii) a Mannich reaction product comprising a tertiary amine group; and (iii) a polyalkylene substituted amine having at least one tertiary amine group, 2. The method according to claim 1 in which formation of deposits is inhibited or prevented to provide a keep clean performance. 3. The method according to claim 1 in which existing deposits are removed to provide a clean up performance. 4. The method according to claim 1 wherein the quaternizing agent is selected from the group consisting of dialkyl sulphates; an ester of a carboxylic acid; alkyl halides; benzyl halides; hydrocarbyl substituted carbonates; and hydrocarbyl epoxides. 5. The method according to claim 1 wherein the nitrogen containing species comprises a compound formed by the reaction of a hydrocarbyl-substituted acylating agent and an amine of formula (I) or (II):
wherein R2 and R3 are the same or different alkyl groups having from 1 to 22 carbon atoms; X is an alkylene group having from 1 to 20 carbon atoms; n is from 0 to 20; m is from 1 to 5; and R4 is hydrogen or a C1 to C22 alkyl group. 6. The method according to claim 1 wherein the quaternizing agent comprises a compound of formula (III):
wherein R is a substituted alkyl, alkenyl, aryl or alkylaryl group; and R1 is a C1 to C22 alkyl, aryl or alkylaryl group. 7. The method according to claim 1 wherein the detergent additive is selected from one or more of:
(a) the reaction product of a carboxylic acid-derived acylating agent and an amine;
(b) the reaction product of a carboxylic acid-derived acylating agent and hydrazine;
(c) a salt formed by the reaction of a carboxylic acid with di-n-butylamine or tri-n-butylamine;
(d) the reaction product of a hydrocarbyl-substituted dicarboxylic acid or abhydride and an amine compound or salt which product comprises at least one amino triazole group; and
(e) a polyaromatic detergent additive. 8. The method according to claim 7 wherein the detergent additive comprises component (a) and is made by reacting a poly(isobutene)-substituted succinic acid-derived acylating agent (e.g., anhydride, acid, ester, etc.) wherein the poly(isobutene) substituent has between about 12 to about 200 carbon atoms with a mixture of ethylene polyamines having 3 to about 9 amino nitrogen atoms per ethylene polyamine and about 1 to about 8 ethylene groups. 9. The method according to claim 7 wherein the detergent additive comprises component (b) and is the reaction product between a hydrocarbyl-substituted succinic acid or anhydride and hydrazine. 10. The method according to claim 7 wherein the detergent additive comprises component (c) and is the di-n-butylamine or tri-n-butylamine salt of a fatty acid of the formula [R′(COOH)x]y′, where each R′ is a independently a hydrocarbon group of between 2 and 45 carbon atoms, and x is an integer between 1 and 4. 11. The method according to claim 7 wherein the detergent additive comprises component (d) and is and is the reaction product of an amine compound having the formula:
and a hydrocarbyl carbonyl compound of the formula:
wherein R is selected from the group consisting of a hydrogen and a hydrocarbyl group containing from about 1 to about 15 carbon atoms; R1 is selected from the group consisting of hydrogen and a hydrocarbyl group containing from about 1 to about 20 carbon atoms; and R2 is a hydrocarbyl group having a number average molecular weight ranging from about 100 to about 5000. 12. The method according to claim 7 wherein the detergent additive comprises component (e) and comprises at least one compound of formula (IV) and/or formula (V):
wherein each Ar independently represents an aromatic moiety having 0 to 3 substituents selected from the group consisting of alkyl, alkoxy, alkoxyalkyl, aryloxy, aryloxyalkyl, hydroxy, hydroxyalkyl, halo and combinations thereof;
each L is independently a linking moiety comprising a carbon-carbon single bond or a linking group;
each Y is independently —OR1″ or a moiety of the formula H(O(CR1 2)n)yX—, wherein X is selected from the group consisting of (CR1 2)2, O and S: R1 and R1′ are each independently selected from H, C1 to C6 alkyl and aryl; R1″ is selected from C1 to C100 alkyl and aryl; z is 1 to 10; n is 0 to 10 when X is (CR1 2)2, and 2 to 10 when X is O or S; and y is 1 to 30;
each a is independently 0 to 3, with the proviso that at least one Ar moiety bears at least one group Y; and m is 1 to 100;
wherein each Ar′ independently represents an aromatic moiety having 0 to 3 substituents selected from the group consisting of alkyl, alkoxy, alkoxyalkyl, hydroxy, hydroxyalkyl, acyloxy, acyloxyalkyl, acyloxyalkoxy, aryloxy, aryloxyalkyl, aryloxyalkoxy, halo and combinations thereof;
each L′ is independently a linking moiety comprising a carbon-carbon single bond or linking group;
each Y′ is independently a moiety of the formula ZO— or Z(O(CR2 2)n′)y′X′—, wherein X′ is selected from the group consisting of (CR2′2)z′, O and S; R2 and R2′ are each independently selected from H, C1 to C6 alkyl and aryl z′ is 1 to 10; n′ is 0 to 10 when X′ is (CR2′2)z, and 2 to 10 when X′ is O or S; y is 1 to 30; Z is H, an acyl group, a polyacyl group, a lactone ester group, an acid ester group, an alkyl group or an aryl group; and
each a′ is independently 0 to 3, with the proviso that at least one Ar′ moiety bears at least one group Y′ in which Z is not H; and m′ is 1 to 100. 13. A diesel fuel composition as defined in claim 1. 14. The method according to claim 1 wherein the diesel engine has a high pressure fuel system. 15. (canceled) 16. An additive composition comprising a detergent additive which is not a quaternary ammonium salt or a Mannich reaction product; and a quaternary ammonium salt additive comprising the reaction product of nitrogen containing species having at least one tertiary amine group and a quaternizing agent; wherein the nitrogen containing species is selected from:
(i) the reaction product of a hydrocarbyl-substituted acylating agent and a compound comprising at least one tertiary amine group and a primary amine, secondary amine or alcohol group; (ii) a Mannich reaction product comprising a tertiary amine group; and (iii) a polyalkylene substituted amine having at least one tertiary amine group. 17. The method according to any preceding claim 1 wherein the quaternizing agent is combined with an acid or mixtures thereof. 18. The method according to claim 7 wherein R2 is a hydrocarbyl group having a number average molecular weight ranging from about 200 to 3000. | A method of reducing deposits in a diesel engine, the method comprising combusting in the engine a diesel fuel composition comprising a detergent additive which is not a quaternary ammonium salt or a Mannich reaction product; and a quaternary ammonium salt additive comprising the reaction product of nitrogen containing species having at least one tertiary amine group and a quaternizing agent; wherein the nitrogen containing species is selected from: (i) the reaction product of a hydrocarbyl-substituted acylating agent and a compound comprising at least one tertiary amine group and a primary amine, secondary amine or alcohol group; (ii) a Mannich reaction product comprising a tertiary amine group; and (v) a polyalkylene substituted amine having at least one tertiary amine group.1. A method of reducing deposits in a diesel engine, the method comprising, combusting in the engine a diesel fuel composition comprising a detergent additive which is not a quaternary ammonium salt or a Mannich reaction product; and a quaternary ammonium salt additive comprising the reaction product of nitrogen containing species having at least one tertiary amine group and a quaternizing agent; *herein the nitrogen containing species is selected from:
(i) the reaction product of a hydrocarbyl-substituted acylating agent and a compound comprising at least one tertiary amine group and a primary amine, secondary amine or alcohol group; (ii) a Mannich reaction product comprising a tertiary amine group; and (iii) a polyalkylene substituted amine having at least one tertiary amine group, 2. The method according to claim 1 in which formation of deposits is inhibited or prevented to provide a keep clean performance. 3. The method according to claim 1 in which existing deposits are removed to provide a clean up performance. 4. The method according to claim 1 wherein the quaternizing agent is selected from the group consisting of dialkyl sulphates; an ester of a carboxylic acid; alkyl halides; benzyl halides; hydrocarbyl substituted carbonates; and hydrocarbyl epoxides. 5. The method according to claim 1 wherein the nitrogen containing species comprises a compound formed by the reaction of a hydrocarbyl-substituted acylating agent and an amine of formula (I) or (II):
wherein R2 and R3 are the same or different alkyl groups having from 1 to 22 carbon atoms; X is an alkylene group having from 1 to 20 carbon atoms; n is from 0 to 20; m is from 1 to 5; and R4 is hydrogen or a C1 to C22 alkyl group. 6. The method according to claim 1 wherein the quaternizing agent comprises a compound of formula (III):
wherein R is a substituted alkyl, alkenyl, aryl or alkylaryl group; and R1 is a C1 to C22 alkyl, aryl or alkylaryl group. 7. The method according to claim 1 wherein the detergent additive is selected from one or more of:
(a) the reaction product of a carboxylic acid-derived acylating agent and an amine;
(b) the reaction product of a carboxylic acid-derived acylating agent and hydrazine;
(c) a salt formed by the reaction of a carboxylic acid with di-n-butylamine or tri-n-butylamine;
(d) the reaction product of a hydrocarbyl-substituted dicarboxylic acid or abhydride and an amine compound or salt which product comprises at least one amino triazole group; and
(e) a polyaromatic detergent additive. 8. The method according to claim 7 wherein the detergent additive comprises component (a) and is made by reacting a poly(isobutene)-substituted succinic acid-derived acylating agent (e.g., anhydride, acid, ester, etc.) wherein the poly(isobutene) substituent has between about 12 to about 200 carbon atoms with a mixture of ethylene polyamines having 3 to about 9 amino nitrogen atoms per ethylene polyamine and about 1 to about 8 ethylene groups. 9. The method according to claim 7 wherein the detergent additive comprises component (b) and is the reaction product between a hydrocarbyl-substituted succinic acid or anhydride and hydrazine. 10. The method according to claim 7 wherein the detergent additive comprises component (c) and is the di-n-butylamine or tri-n-butylamine salt of a fatty acid of the formula [R′(COOH)x]y′, where each R′ is a independently a hydrocarbon group of between 2 and 45 carbon atoms, and x is an integer between 1 and 4. 11. The method according to claim 7 wherein the detergent additive comprises component (d) and is and is the reaction product of an amine compound having the formula:
and a hydrocarbyl carbonyl compound of the formula:
wherein R is selected from the group consisting of a hydrogen and a hydrocarbyl group containing from about 1 to about 15 carbon atoms; R1 is selected from the group consisting of hydrogen and a hydrocarbyl group containing from about 1 to about 20 carbon atoms; and R2 is a hydrocarbyl group having a number average molecular weight ranging from about 100 to about 5000. 12. The method according to claim 7 wherein the detergent additive comprises component (e) and comprises at least one compound of formula (IV) and/or formula (V):
wherein each Ar independently represents an aromatic moiety having 0 to 3 substituents selected from the group consisting of alkyl, alkoxy, alkoxyalkyl, aryloxy, aryloxyalkyl, hydroxy, hydroxyalkyl, halo and combinations thereof;
each L is independently a linking moiety comprising a carbon-carbon single bond or a linking group;
each Y is independently —OR1″ or a moiety of the formula H(O(CR1 2)n)yX—, wherein X is selected from the group consisting of (CR1 2)2, O and S: R1 and R1′ are each independently selected from H, C1 to C6 alkyl and aryl; R1″ is selected from C1 to C100 alkyl and aryl; z is 1 to 10; n is 0 to 10 when X is (CR1 2)2, and 2 to 10 when X is O or S; and y is 1 to 30;
each a is independently 0 to 3, with the proviso that at least one Ar moiety bears at least one group Y; and m is 1 to 100;
wherein each Ar′ independently represents an aromatic moiety having 0 to 3 substituents selected from the group consisting of alkyl, alkoxy, alkoxyalkyl, hydroxy, hydroxyalkyl, acyloxy, acyloxyalkyl, acyloxyalkoxy, aryloxy, aryloxyalkyl, aryloxyalkoxy, halo and combinations thereof;
each L′ is independently a linking moiety comprising a carbon-carbon single bond or linking group;
each Y′ is independently a moiety of the formula ZO— or Z(O(CR2 2)n′)y′X′—, wherein X′ is selected from the group consisting of (CR2′2)z′, O and S; R2 and R2′ are each independently selected from H, C1 to C6 alkyl and aryl z′ is 1 to 10; n′ is 0 to 10 when X′ is (CR2′2)z, and 2 to 10 when X′ is O or S; y is 1 to 30; Z is H, an acyl group, a polyacyl group, a lactone ester group, an acid ester group, an alkyl group or an aryl group; and
each a′ is independently 0 to 3, with the proviso that at least one Ar′ moiety bears at least one group Y′ in which Z is not H; and m′ is 1 to 100. 13. A diesel fuel composition as defined in claim 1. 14. The method according to claim 1 wherein the diesel engine has a high pressure fuel system. 15. (canceled) 16. An additive composition comprising a detergent additive which is not a quaternary ammonium salt or a Mannich reaction product; and a quaternary ammonium salt additive comprising the reaction product of nitrogen containing species having at least one tertiary amine group and a quaternizing agent; wherein the nitrogen containing species is selected from:
(i) the reaction product of a hydrocarbyl-substituted acylating agent and a compound comprising at least one tertiary amine group and a primary amine, secondary amine or alcohol group; (ii) a Mannich reaction product comprising a tertiary amine group; and (iii) a polyalkylene substituted amine having at least one tertiary amine group. 17. The method according to any preceding claim 1 wherein the quaternizing agent is combined with an acid or mixtures thereof. 18. The method according to claim 7 wherein R2 is a hydrocarbyl group having a number average molecular weight ranging from about 200 to 3000. | 1,700 |
4,037 | 14,816,313 | 1,771 | A method of reducing deposits in a diesel engine, the method comprising combusting in the engine a diesel fuel composition comprising a detergent additive which is not a quaternary ammonium salt or a Mannich reaction product; and a quaternary ammonium salt additive comprising the reaction product of nitrogen containing species having at least one tertiary amine group and a quaternizing agent; wherein the nitrogen containing species is selected from:
(i) the reaction product of a hydrocarbyl-substituted acylating agent and a compound comprising at least one tertiary amine group and a primary amine, secondary amine or alcohol group; (ii) a Mannich reaction product comprising a tertiary amine group; and (iii) a polyalkylene substituted amine having at least one tertiary amine group. | 1. A method of reducing deposits in a diesel engine, the method comprising combusting in the engine a diesel fuel composition comprising a detergent additive which is not a quaternary ammonium salt or a Mannich reaction product; and a quaternary ammonium salt additive comprising the reaction product of nitrogen containing species having at least one tertiary amine group and a quaternizing agent; wherein the nitrogen containing species is selected from:
(i) the reaction product of a hydrocarbyl-substituted acylating agent and a compound comprising at least one tertiary amine group and a primary amine, secondary amine or alcohol group; (ii) a Mannich reaction product comprising a tertiary amine group; and (iii) a polyalkylene substituted amine having at least one tertiary amine group; wherein the detergent additive is the reaction product of a carboxylic acid derived acylating agent and an amine; and wherein the method provides control of deposits within the injector body of a modern diesel engine having a high pressure fuel system to prevent injector sticking. 2. A method according to claim 1 in which the formation of deposits is inhibited or prevented to provide a keep clean performance. 3. A method according to claim 1 in which the existing deposits are removed to provide a clean up performance. 4. A method according to claim 1 wherein the quaternizing agent is selected from the group consisting of dialkyl sulphates; an ester of a carboxylic acid; alkyl halides; benzyl halides; hydrocarbyl substituted carbonates; and hydrocarbyl epoxides, optionally in combination with an acid or mixtures thereof. 5. A method according to claim 1 wherein the nitrogen containing species comprises a compound formed by the reaction of a hydrocarbyl-substituted acylating agent and an amine of formula (I) or (II):
wherein R2 and R3 are the same or different alkyl groups having from 1 to 22 carbon atoms; X is an alkylene group having from 1 to 20 carbon atoms; n is from 0 to 20; m is from 1 to 5; and R4 is hydrogen or a C1 to 5 C22 alkyl group. 6. A method according to claim 1 wherein the quaternizing agent comprises a compound of formula (II):
wherein R is a substituted alkyl, alkenyl, aryl or alkylaryl group; and R1 is a C1 to C22 alkyl, aryl or alkylaryl group. 7. A method according to claim 1 wherein the detergent additive is made by reacting a poly(isobutene)-substituted succinic acid-derived acylating agent wherein the poly(isobutene) substituent has between about 12 to about 200 carbon atoms with a mixture of ethylene polyamines having 3 to about 9 amino nitrogen atoms per ethylene polyamine and about 1 to about 8 ethylene groups. 8. A method according to claim 1 wherein the fuel composition comprises a further detergent additive which is the reaction product between a hydrocarbyl-substituted succinic acid or anhydride and hydrazine. 9. A method according to claim 1 wherein the fuel composition comprises a further detergent additive which is the di-n-butylamine or tri-n-butylamine salt of a fatty acid of the formula [R′(COOH)x]y′, where each R′ is a independently a hydrocarbon group of between 2 and 45 carbon atoms, and x is an integer between 1 and 4. 10. A method according to claim 1 wherein the fuel composition comprises a further detergent additive which is the reaction product of an amine compound having the formula:
and a hydrocarbyl carbonyl compound of the formula:
wherein R is selected from the group consisting of a hydrogen and a hydrocarbyl group containing from about 1 to about 15 carbon atoms; R1 is selected from the group consisting of hydrogen and a hydrocarbyl group containing from about 1 to about 20 carbon atoms; and R2 is a hydrocarbyl group having a number average molecular weight ranging from about 100 to about 5000. 11. A method according to claim 1 wherein the fuel composition comprises a further detergent additive which comprises at least one compound of formula (IV) and/or formula (V):
wherein each Ar independently represents an aromatic moiety having 0 to 3 substituents selected from the group consisting of alkyl, alkoxy, alkoxyalkyl, aryloxy, aryloxyalkyl, hydroxy, hydroxyalkyl, halo and combinations thereof;
each L is independently a linking moiety comprising a carbon-carbon single bond or a linking group;
each Y is independently —OR1″ or a moiety of the formula H(O(CR1 2)n)yX—, wherein X is selected from the group consisting of (CR1 2)2, O and S: R1 and R1′ are each independently selected from H, C1 to C6 alkyl and aryl; R1″ is selected from C1 to C100 alkyl and aryl; z is 1 to 10; n is 0 to 10 when X is (CR1 2)2, and 2 to 10 when X is O or S; and y is 1 to 30;
each a is independently 0 to 3, with the proviso that at least one Ar moiety bears at least one group Y;
and m is 1 to 100;
wherein each Ar′ independently represents an aromatic moiety having 0 to 3 substituents selected from the group consisting of alkyl, alkoxy, alkoxyalkyl, hydroxy, hydroxyalkyl, acyloxy, acyloxyalkyl, acyloxyalkoxy, aryloxy, aryloxyalkyl, aryloxyalkoxy, halo and combinations thereof;
each L′ is independently a linking moiety comprising a carbon-carbon single bond or linking group;
each Y′ is independently a moiety of the formula ZO— or Z(O(CR2 2)n′)y′X′—wherein X′ is selected from the group consisting of (CR2′ 2)z′, O and S; R2 and R2′ are each independently selected from H, C1 to C6 alkyl and aryl z′ is 1 to 10; n′ is 0 to 10 when X′ is (CR2′ 2)z, and 2 to 10 when X′ is O or S; y is 1 to 30; Z is H, an acyl group, a polyacyl group, a lactone ester group, an acid ester group, an alkyl group or an aryl group;
each a′ is independently 0 to 3, with the proviso that at least one Ar′ moiety bears at least one group Y′ in which Z is not H; and m′ is 1 to 100. 12. A diesel fuel composition as defined in claim 1. 13. A method according to claim 10, wherein R2 is a hydrocarbyl group having a number average molecular weight ranging from about 200 to about 3000. | A method of reducing deposits in a diesel engine, the method comprising combusting in the engine a diesel fuel composition comprising a detergent additive which is not a quaternary ammonium salt or a Mannich reaction product; and a quaternary ammonium salt additive comprising the reaction product of nitrogen containing species having at least one tertiary amine group and a quaternizing agent; wherein the nitrogen containing species is selected from:
(i) the reaction product of a hydrocarbyl-substituted acylating agent and a compound comprising at least one tertiary amine group and a primary amine, secondary amine or alcohol group; (ii) a Mannich reaction product comprising a tertiary amine group; and (iii) a polyalkylene substituted amine having at least one tertiary amine group.1. A method of reducing deposits in a diesel engine, the method comprising combusting in the engine a diesel fuel composition comprising a detergent additive which is not a quaternary ammonium salt or a Mannich reaction product; and a quaternary ammonium salt additive comprising the reaction product of nitrogen containing species having at least one tertiary amine group and a quaternizing agent; wherein the nitrogen containing species is selected from:
(i) the reaction product of a hydrocarbyl-substituted acylating agent and a compound comprising at least one tertiary amine group and a primary amine, secondary amine or alcohol group; (ii) a Mannich reaction product comprising a tertiary amine group; and (iii) a polyalkylene substituted amine having at least one tertiary amine group; wherein the detergent additive is the reaction product of a carboxylic acid derived acylating agent and an amine; and wherein the method provides control of deposits within the injector body of a modern diesel engine having a high pressure fuel system to prevent injector sticking. 2. A method according to claim 1 in which the formation of deposits is inhibited or prevented to provide a keep clean performance. 3. A method according to claim 1 in which the existing deposits are removed to provide a clean up performance. 4. A method according to claim 1 wherein the quaternizing agent is selected from the group consisting of dialkyl sulphates; an ester of a carboxylic acid; alkyl halides; benzyl halides; hydrocarbyl substituted carbonates; and hydrocarbyl epoxides, optionally in combination with an acid or mixtures thereof. 5. A method according to claim 1 wherein the nitrogen containing species comprises a compound formed by the reaction of a hydrocarbyl-substituted acylating agent and an amine of formula (I) or (II):
wherein R2 and R3 are the same or different alkyl groups having from 1 to 22 carbon atoms; X is an alkylene group having from 1 to 20 carbon atoms; n is from 0 to 20; m is from 1 to 5; and R4 is hydrogen or a C1 to 5 C22 alkyl group. 6. A method according to claim 1 wherein the quaternizing agent comprises a compound of formula (II):
wherein R is a substituted alkyl, alkenyl, aryl or alkylaryl group; and R1 is a C1 to C22 alkyl, aryl or alkylaryl group. 7. A method according to claim 1 wherein the detergent additive is made by reacting a poly(isobutene)-substituted succinic acid-derived acylating agent wherein the poly(isobutene) substituent has between about 12 to about 200 carbon atoms with a mixture of ethylene polyamines having 3 to about 9 amino nitrogen atoms per ethylene polyamine and about 1 to about 8 ethylene groups. 8. A method according to claim 1 wherein the fuel composition comprises a further detergent additive which is the reaction product between a hydrocarbyl-substituted succinic acid or anhydride and hydrazine. 9. A method according to claim 1 wherein the fuel composition comprises a further detergent additive which is the di-n-butylamine or tri-n-butylamine salt of a fatty acid of the formula [R′(COOH)x]y′, where each R′ is a independently a hydrocarbon group of between 2 and 45 carbon atoms, and x is an integer between 1 and 4. 10. A method according to claim 1 wherein the fuel composition comprises a further detergent additive which is the reaction product of an amine compound having the formula:
and a hydrocarbyl carbonyl compound of the formula:
wherein R is selected from the group consisting of a hydrogen and a hydrocarbyl group containing from about 1 to about 15 carbon atoms; R1 is selected from the group consisting of hydrogen and a hydrocarbyl group containing from about 1 to about 20 carbon atoms; and R2 is a hydrocarbyl group having a number average molecular weight ranging from about 100 to about 5000. 11. A method according to claim 1 wherein the fuel composition comprises a further detergent additive which comprises at least one compound of formula (IV) and/or formula (V):
wherein each Ar independently represents an aromatic moiety having 0 to 3 substituents selected from the group consisting of alkyl, alkoxy, alkoxyalkyl, aryloxy, aryloxyalkyl, hydroxy, hydroxyalkyl, halo and combinations thereof;
each L is independently a linking moiety comprising a carbon-carbon single bond or a linking group;
each Y is independently —OR1″ or a moiety of the formula H(O(CR1 2)n)yX—, wherein X is selected from the group consisting of (CR1 2)2, O and S: R1 and R1′ are each independently selected from H, C1 to C6 alkyl and aryl; R1″ is selected from C1 to C100 alkyl and aryl; z is 1 to 10; n is 0 to 10 when X is (CR1 2)2, and 2 to 10 when X is O or S; and y is 1 to 30;
each a is independently 0 to 3, with the proviso that at least one Ar moiety bears at least one group Y;
and m is 1 to 100;
wherein each Ar′ independently represents an aromatic moiety having 0 to 3 substituents selected from the group consisting of alkyl, alkoxy, alkoxyalkyl, hydroxy, hydroxyalkyl, acyloxy, acyloxyalkyl, acyloxyalkoxy, aryloxy, aryloxyalkyl, aryloxyalkoxy, halo and combinations thereof;
each L′ is independently a linking moiety comprising a carbon-carbon single bond or linking group;
each Y′ is independently a moiety of the formula ZO— or Z(O(CR2 2)n′)y′X′—wherein X′ is selected from the group consisting of (CR2′ 2)z′, O and S; R2 and R2′ are each independently selected from H, C1 to C6 alkyl and aryl z′ is 1 to 10; n′ is 0 to 10 when X′ is (CR2′ 2)z, and 2 to 10 when X′ is O or S; y is 1 to 30; Z is H, an acyl group, a polyacyl group, a lactone ester group, an acid ester group, an alkyl group or an aryl group;
each a′ is independently 0 to 3, with the proviso that at least one Ar′ moiety bears at least one group Y′ in which Z is not H; and m′ is 1 to 100. 12. A diesel fuel composition as defined in claim 1. 13. A method according to claim 10, wherein R2 is a hydrocarbyl group having a number average molecular weight ranging from about 200 to about 3000. | 1,700 |
4,038 | 14,201,996 | 1,789 | This invention relates to tufted floorcovering articles, including carpet tiles and broadloom carpet. In particular, this invention relates to tufted floorcovering articles made from the family of polymers known as polyester. Specifically, this invention relates to tufted carpet tile products made from polyester. The polyester carpet tiles meet commercial performance specifications and are fully end-of-life recyclable. | 1. A polyester floorcovering article comprised of:
(a) polyester pile yarn; (b) a spunbond nonwoven polyester primary backing layer; (c) a first layer of polyester hot melt adhesive having a certain viscosity, wherein the hot melt adhesive is comprised of at least 50% recycled material; (d) a second layer of polyester hot melt adhesive having a viscosity or molecular weight that is three to five times higher than the viscosity or molecular weight of layer “c;” and (e) a polyester needlepunch nonwoven secondary backing layer. 2. The floorcovering article of claim 1, wherein the article exhibits a solution intrinsic viscosity of greater than 0.50 dl/g when tested according to ASTM D4603 and an ash content of less than 0.25% when tested according to ASTM D5630. 3. The floorcovering article of claim 1, wherein the article exhibits a Velcro Roller Fuzzing value of greater than 3 when tested according to ITTS 112. 4. The floorcovering article of claim 1, wherein the article exhibits a Resistance to Delamination value of greater than 12 pounds when tested according to ASTM D3936. 5. The floorcovering article of claim 1, wherein the article exhibits Aachen dimensional stability of less than +/−0.1% change when tested according to ISO 2551. 6. A floorcovering article comprised of:
(a) a layer of polyester yarn selected from the group consisting of loop pile, cut pile, or a combination of loop and cut pile; (b) a layer of polyester primary backing layer selected from the group consisting of spunbond nonwoven, stitchbonded nonwoven, woven tape, and needlepunch nonwoven; (c) a layer of polyester adhesive having a certain viscosity; (d) a layer of polyester adhesive having viscosity at least two times greater than the viscosity of layer “c;” and (e) a layer of polyester secondary backing layer in the weight range of 200 gsm to 850 gsm. 7. The floorcovering article of claim 6, wherein the article exhibits a solution intrinsic viscosity of greater than 0.50 dl/g when tested according to ASTM D4603 and an ash content of less than 0.25% when tested according to ASTM D5630. 8. The floorcovering article of claim 6, wherein the article exhibits a Velcro Roller Fuzzing value of greater than 3 when tested according to ITTS 112. 9. The floorcovering article of claim 6, wherein the article exhibits a Resistance to Delamination value of greater than 12 pounds when tested according to ASTM D3936. 10. The floorcovering article of claim 6, wherein the article exhibits Aachen dimensional stability of less than +/−0.1% change when tested according to ISO 2551. 11. The floorcovering article of claim 6, wherein at least one of layers “c” and “d” is a hot melt adhesive. 12. The floorcovering article of claim 6, wherein layers “c” and “d” are independently selected from aqueous material and film material. 13. The floorcovering article of claim 6, wherein the viscosity of layer “d” is from 2 to 10 times greater than the viscosity of layer “c.” 14. The floorcovering article of claim 6, wherein the viscosity of layer “d” is from 2 to 8 times greater than the viscosity of layer “c.” 15. The floorcovering article of claim 6, wherein the viscosity of layer “d” is from 2 to 5 times greater than the viscosity of layer “c.” 16. The floorcovering article of claim 6, wherein the viscosity of layer “d” is from 3 to 5 times greater than the viscosity of layer “c.” 17. A polyester floorcovering article comprised of:
(a) 100% polyester yarn with a weight range of 15-60 oz/yd2; (b) a polyester woven tape primary backing layer; (c) a polyester adhesive layer having viscosity in the range from 2100 cps to 8500 cps; and (d) a secondary backing layer comprised of polyester. 18. The polyester floorcovering article of claim 17, wherein the secondary backing layer is selected from the group consisting of polyester spunbonded, stitchbonded, needlepunched, hydroentangled, carded and thermally bonded materials. 19. The polyester floorcovering article of claim 17, wherein the adhesive layer is comprised of a material selected from film, dispersion, powder, or hot melt. 20. A floor covering article comprised substantially of 100% polyester material, wherein the article contains an average post-consumer recycle content in the range from 70% to 100% by weight, and wherein the article is fully recyclable at the end-of-life. | This invention relates to tufted floorcovering articles, including carpet tiles and broadloom carpet. In particular, this invention relates to tufted floorcovering articles made from the family of polymers known as polyester. Specifically, this invention relates to tufted carpet tile products made from polyester. The polyester carpet tiles meet commercial performance specifications and are fully end-of-life recyclable.1. A polyester floorcovering article comprised of:
(a) polyester pile yarn; (b) a spunbond nonwoven polyester primary backing layer; (c) a first layer of polyester hot melt adhesive having a certain viscosity, wherein the hot melt adhesive is comprised of at least 50% recycled material; (d) a second layer of polyester hot melt adhesive having a viscosity or molecular weight that is three to five times higher than the viscosity or molecular weight of layer “c;” and (e) a polyester needlepunch nonwoven secondary backing layer. 2. The floorcovering article of claim 1, wherein the article exhibits a solution intrinsic viscosity of greater than 0.50 dl/g when tested according to ASTM D4603 and an ash content of less than 0.25% when tested according to ASTM D5630. 3. The floorcovering article of claim 1, wherein the article exhibits a Velcro Roller Fuzzing value of greater than 3 when tested according to ITTS 112. 4. The floorcovering article of claim 1, wherein the article exhibits a Resistance to Delamination value of greater than 12 pounds when tested according to ASTM D3936. 5. The floorcovering article of claim 1, wherein the article exhibits Aachen dimensional stability of less than +/−0.1% change when tested according to ISO 2551. 6. A floorcovering article comprised of:
(a) a layer of polyester yarn selected from the group consisting of loop pile, cut pile, or a combination of loop and cut pile; (b) a layer of polyester primary backing layer selected from the group consisting of spunbond nonwoven, stitchbonded nonwoven, woven tape, and needlepunch nonwoven; (c) a layer of polyester adhesive having a certain viscosity; (d) a layer of polyester adhesive having viscosity at least two times greater than the viscosity of layer “c;” and (e) a layer of polyester secondary backing layer in the weight range of 200 gsm to 850 gsm. 7. The floorcovering article of claim 6, wherein the article exhibits a solution intrinsic viscosity of greater than 0.50 dl/g when tested according to ASTM D4603 and an ash content of less than 0.25% when tested according to ASTM D5630. 8. The floorcovering article of claim 6, wherein the article exhibits a Velcro Roller Fuzzing value of greater than 3 when tested according to ITTS 112. 9. The floorcovering article of claim 6, wherein the article exhibits a Resistance to Delamination value of greater than 12 pounds when tested according to ASTM D3936. 10. The floorcovering article of claim 6, wherein the article exhibits Aachen dimensional stability of less than +/−0.1% change when tested according to ISO 2551. 11. The floorcovering article of claim 6, wherein at least one of layers “c” and “d” is a hot melt adhesive. 12. The floorcovering article of claim 6, wherein layers “c” and “d” are independently selected from aqueous material and film material. 13. The floorcovering article of claim 6, wherein the viscosity of layer “d” is from 2 to 10 times greater than the viscosity of layer “c.” 14. The floorcovering article of claim 6, wherein the viscosity of layer “d” is from 2 to 8 times greater than the viscosity of layer “c.” 15. The floorcovering article of claim 6, wherein the viscosity of layer “d” is from 2 to 5 times greater than the viscosity of layer “c.” 16. The floorcovering article of claim 6, wherein the viscosity of layer “d” is from 3 to 5 times greater than the viscosity of layer “c.” 17. A polyester floorcovering article comprised of:
(a) 100% polyester yarn with a weight range of 15-60 oz/yd2; (b) a polyester woven tape primary backing layer; (c) a polyester adhesive layer having viscosity in the range from 2100 cps to 8500 cps; and (d) a secondary backing layer comprised of polyester. 18. The polyester floorcovering article of claim 17, wherein the secondary backing layer is selected from the group consisting of polyester spunbonded, stitchbonded, needlepunched, hydroentangled, carded and thermally bonded materials. 19. The polyester floorcovering article of claim 17, wherein the adhesive layer is comprised of a material selected from film, dispersion, powder, or hot melt. 20. A floor covering article comprised substantially of 100% polyester material, wherein the article contains an average post-consumer recycle content in the range from 70% to 100% by weight, and wherein the article is fully recyclable at the end-of-life. | 1,700 |
4,039 | 15,492,618 | 1,745 | A system and method for aligning a screen protector to a cell phone comprises a screen protector with an alignment liner disposed over the screen protector; alignment indicia disposed on the alignment liner; and a display source configured to enable display of alignment indicia on the display screen of the cell phone. The alignment indicia of the display screen correspond to the alignment indicia of the alignment liner so that the alignment indicia of the alignment liner is capable of being aligned over the alignment indicia on the display screen to properly align the screen protector with the display screen when the screen protector is positioned above the display screen. | 1. A system configured for aligning a screen protector to a cell phone having a display screen, the system comprising:
a screen protector with an alignment liner disposed over the screen protector; alignment indicia disposed on the alignment liner; and a display source configured to enable display of alignment indicia on the display screen of the cell phone, the alignment indicia of the display screen providing guidance to the alignment indicia of the alignment liner so that the alignment indicia of the alignment liner is capable of being aligned over the alignment indicia on the display screen to properly align the screen protector with the display screen when the screen protector is positioned above the display screen. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the alignment indicia supplied to the display screen is from an electronic page. 3. The system of claim 1, wherein the alignment indicia supplied to the display screen is from an application running on the cell phone. 4. The system of claim 3, wherein the application turns the display screen off for a predetermined length of time to allow the display screen to be cleaned prior to installation of the screen protector. 5. The system of claim 3, wherein the cell phone has a microphone and wherein the application receives voice commands to pause and/or progress installation instructions associated with installation of the screen protector. 6. The system of claim 1, wherein the display source is further configured to enable display of graphic and/or text instructions for aligning and securing the screen protector with respect to the display screen. 7. The system of claim 1, further comprising:
camera indicia disposed on the alignment liner and located on the alignment liner to be disposed over a camera of the cell phone during installation of the screen protector on the display screen, and capable of being discerned by the camera; and the display source comprising an application running on the cell phone; and the application determining a location and/or an orientation of the screen protector relative to the display screen and providing directional feedback to correct the location and/or the orientation of the screen protector. 8. The system of claim 7, wherein the application provides directional feedback audibly through a speaker of the cell phone. 9. The system of claim 7, wherein the application provides directional feedback visually through the display screen of the cell phone. 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising:
the display source comprising an application running on the cell phone; and the application determining viewing angle of the display screen of the cell phone with respect to a user's eyes using a camera of the cell phone, and the application adjusting a location of the alignment indicia displayed on the display screen of the cell phone based on the viewing angle. 11. A method for coupling a screen protector to a cell phone having a display screen displaying alignment indicia thereon, the method comprising:
bringing the screen protector into proximity of the display screen; aligning alignment indicia of an alignment liner of the screen protector with the alignment indicia of the display screen; and placing the screen protector on the display screen while the alignment indicia of the alignment liner remains aligned with the alignment indicia of the display screen; and affixing the screen protector to the display screen. 12. The method of claim 11, further comprising following graphic and/or text instructions displayed on the display screen for aligning and securing the screen protector with respect to the display screen. 13. The method of claim 11, further comprising causing the display screen to display the alignment indicia from a web page or site associated with the screen protector. 14. The method of claim 11, further comprising causing the display screen to display the alignment indicia from an application running on the cell phone and associated with the screen protector. 15. The method of claim 11, further comprising:
causing the cell phone to sense a position and/or an orientation of the screen protector with respect to the display screen; causing the display screen to display adjustment indicia and/or instructions to align the screen protector with respect to the display screen; and following the adjustment indicia and/or the instructions. 16. The method of claim 11, further comprising:
causing the cell phone to sense a position and/or an orientation of the screen protector with respect to the display screen; causing the cell phone to display adjustment indicia and/or instructions to align the screen protector with respect to the display screen; and following the adjustment indicia and/or instructions. 17. The method of claim 11, further comprising:
causing the cell phone to sense a viewing angle between a user's eyes and the display screen using a camera of the cell phone; causing the cell phone to adjust a location of the alignment indicia displayed on the display screen of the cell phone based on the viewing angle; and following the alignment indicia. 18. A non-transitory computer-usable storage medium having instructions embodied therein that when executed cause a computer system to perform a method for installing a screen protector on cell phone, the screen protector having an alignment liner disposed over the screen protector with alignment indicia disposed on the alignment liner, the method comprising:
displaying alignment indicia on the display screen of the cell phone, the alignment indicia of the display screen corresponding to the alignment indicia of the alignment liner so that the alignment indicia of the alignment liner is capable of being aligned over the alignment indicia on the display screen to properly align the screen protector with the display screen when the screen protector is positioned above the display screen; 19. The non-transitory computer-usable storage medium of claim 18, wherein the method further comprises displaying graphic and/or text instructions for aligning and securing the screen protector with respect to the display screen. 20. The non-transitory computer-usable storage medium of claim 18, wherein the method further comprises:
accessing an electronic page from a web site associated with the screen protector and that has alignment indicia; and displaying the alignment indicia from the electronic page. 21. The non-transitory computer-usable storage medium of claim 18, wherein the method further comprises:
sensing a position and/or an orientation of the screen protector with respect to the display screen; and displaying adjustment indicia and/or instructions to align the screen protector with respect to the display screen. 22. The non-transitory computer-usable storage medium of claim 18, wherein the method further comprises:
determining viewing angle of the display screen of the cell phone with respect to a user's eyes using a camera of the cell phone; and adjusting a location of the alignment indicia displayed on the display screen of the cell phone based on the viewing angle. | A system and method for aligning a screen protector to a cell phone comprises a screen protector with an alignment liner disposed over the screen protector; alignment indicia disposed on the alignment liner; and a display source configured to enable display of alignment indicia on the display screen of the cell phone. The alignment indicia of the display screen correspond to the alignment indicia of the alignment liner so that the alignment indicia of the alignment liner is capable of being aligned over the alignment indicia on the display screen to properly align the screen protector with the display screen when the screen protector is positioned above the display screen.1. A system configured for aligning a screen protector to a cell phone having a display screen, the system comprising:
a screen protector with an alignment liner disposed over the screen protector; alignment indicia disposed on the alignment liner; and a display source configured to enable display of alignment indicia on the display screen of the cell phone, the alignment indicia of the display screen providing guidance to the alignment indicia of the alignment liner so that the alignment indicia of the alignment liner is capable of being aligned over the alignment indicia on the display screen to properly align the screen protector with the display screen when the screen protector is positioned above the display screen. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the alignment indicia supplied to the display screen is from an electronic page. 3. The system of claim 1, wherein the alignment indicia supplied to the display screen is from an application running on the cell phone. 4. The system of claim 3, wherein the application turns the display screen off for a predetermined length of time to allow the display screen to be cleaned prior to installation of the screen protector. 5. The system of claim 3, wherein the cell phone has a microphone and wherein the application receives voice commands to pause and/or progress installation instructions associated with installation of the screen protector. 6. The system of claim 1, wherein the display source is further configured to enable display of graphic and/or text instructions for aligning and securing the screen protector with respect to the display screen. 7. The system of claim 1, further comprising:
camera indicia disposed on the alignment liner and located on the alignment liner to be disposed over a camera of the cell phone during installation of the screen protector on the display screen, and capable of being discerned by the camera; and the display source comprising an application running on the cell phone; and the application determining a location and/or an orientation of the screen protector relative to the display screen and providing directional feedback to correct the location and/or the orientation of the screen protector. 8. The system of claim 7, wherein the application provides directional feedback audibly through a speaker of the cell phone. 9. The system of claim 7, wherein the application provides directional feedback visually through the display screen of the cell phone. 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising:
the display source comprising an application running on the cell phone; and the application determining viewing angle of the display screen of the cell phone with respect to a user's eyes using a camera of the cell phone, and the application adjusting a location of the alignment indicia displayed on the display screen of the cell phone based on the viewing angle. 11. A method for coupling a screen protector to a cell phone having a display screen displaying alignment indicia thereon, the method comprising:
bringing the screen protector into proximity of the display screen; aligning alignment indicia of an alignment liner of the screen protector with the alignment indicia of the display screen; and placing the screen protector on the display screen while the alignment indicia of the alignment liner remains aligned with the alignment indicia of the display screen; and affixing the screen protector to the display screen. 12. The method of claim 11, further comprising following graphic and/or text instructions displayed on the display screen for aligning and securing the screen protector with respect to the display screen. 13. The method of claim 11, further comprising causing the display screen to display the alignment indicia from a web page or site associated with the screen protector. 14. The method of claim 11, further comprising causing the display screen to display the alignment indicia from an application running on the cell phone and associated with the screen protector. 15. The method of claim 11, further comprising:
causing the cell phone to sense a position and/or an orientation of the screen protector with respect to the display screen; causing the display screen to display adjustment indicia and/or instructions to align the screen protector with respect to the display screen; and following the adjustment indicia and/or the instructions. 16. The method of claim 11, further comprising:
causing the cell phone to sense a position and/or an orientation of the screen protector with respect to the display screen; causing the cell phone to display adjustment indicia and/or instructions to align the screen protector with respect to the display screen; and following the adjustment indicia and/or instructions. 17. The method of claim 11, further comprising:
causing the cell phone to sense a viewing angle between a user's eyes and the display screen using a camera of the cell phone; causing the cell phone to adjust a location of the alignment indicia displayed on the display screen of the cell phone based on the viewing angle; and following the alignment indicia. 18. A non-transitory computer-usable storage medium having instructions embodied therein that when executed cause a computer system to perform a method for installing a screen protector on cell phone, the screen protector having an alignment liner disposed over the screen protector with alignment indicia disposed on the alignment liner, the method comprising:
displaying alignment indicia on the display screen of the cell phone, the alignment indicia of the display screen corresponding to the alignment indicia of the alignment liner so that the alignment indicia of the alignment liner is capable of being aligned over the alignment indicia on the display screen to properly align the screen protector with the display screen when the screen protector is positioned above the display screen; 19. The non-transitory computer-usable storage medium of claim 18, wherein the method further comprises displaying graphic and/or text instructions for aligning and securing the screen protector with respect to the display screen. 20. The non-transitory computer-usable storage medium of claim 18, wherein the method further comprises:
accessing an electronic page from a web site associated with the screen protector and that has alignment indicia; and displaying the alignment indicia from the electronic page. 21. The non-transitory computer-usable storage medium of claim 18, wherein the method further comprises:
sensing a position and/or an orientation of the screen protector with respect to the display screen; and displaying adjustment indicia and/or instructions to align the screen protector with respect to the display screen. 22. The non-transitory computer-usable storage medium of claim 18, wherein the method further comprises:
determining viewing angle of the display screen of the cell phone with respect to a user's eyes using a camera of the cell phone; and adjusting a location of the alignment indicia displayed on the display screen of the cell phone based on the viewing angle. | 1,700 |
4,040 | 14,350,969 | 1,774 | A container assembly with improved mixing dynamics for mixing substances in preparation for injection by an injection device or for the dispersion of additives in the collection and analysis of biological samples is disclosed. In one configuration, the container assembly includes a first mixing element protruding into an interior of a container. With the container rotated about its longitudinal axis, the first mixing element forms at least one vortex which effectuates mixing of a first substance provided within the container interior and a second substance provided within the container interior. | 1. A container assembly comprising:
a container having a first end, a second end, and a sidewall extending therebetween and defining a container interior, the container defining a container longitudinal axis; a first closure sealing the first end of the container; a second closure sealing the second end of the container; and a first mixing element protruding into the container interior, whereby, with the container rotated about the container longitudinal axis, the first mixing element forms at least one vortex which effectuates mixing of a first substance provided within the container interior and a second substance provided within the container interior. 2. The container assembly of claim 1, wherein the first mixing element is located on a portion of the first closure. 3. The container assembly of claim 1, wherein the first mixing element is located on a portion of the second closure. 4. The container assembly of claim 1, wherein the first mixing element is located on an internal surface of the sidewall of the container. 5. The container assembly of claim 1, wherein the first mixing element forms an asymmetric mixing pattern within at least one of the first and second substances provided within the container interior. 6. The container assembly of claim 1, further comprising a second mixing element protruding into the container interior, whereby, with the container rotated about the container longitudinal axis, the first mixing element and the second mixing element form the at least one vortex which effectuates mixing of the first substance and the second substance within the container assembly. 7. The container assembly of claim 1, wherein the first mixing element comprises at least one mixing fin. 8. The container assembly of claim 7, wherein the at least one mixing fin comprises:
a top portion; a bottom portion; a first mixing face extending from the bottom portion to the top portion at a first angle; and a second mixing face extending from the bottom portion to the top portion at a second angle. 9. The container assembly of claim 8, wherein the first angle equals the second angle. 10. The container assembly of claim 8, wherein the first angle is greater than the second angle. 11. The container assembly of claim 8, wherein the first angle is less than the second angle. 12. The container assembly of claim 8, wherein the first mixing face and the second mixing face have the same shape. 13. The container assembly of claim 8, wherein the first mixing face has a first shape and the second mixing face has a second shape, the second shape being different than the first shape. 14. The container assembly of claim 1, wherein the first mixing element comprises three mixing fins equally spaced about a circumference of a portion of the first closure. 15. The container assembly of claim 1, wherein the first mixing element comprises at least one inclined surface of a portion of the first closure. 16. The container assembly of claim 1, further comprising a first substance within the container interior. 17. The container assembly of claim 16, further comprising a second substance within the container interior. 18. A container assembly comprising:
a container having a first end, a second end, and a sidewall extending therebetween and defining a container interior, the container defining a container longitudinal axis; a first closure sealing the first end of the container; a second closure sealing the second end of the container; a first mixing element protruding into the container interior, the first mixing element located on a portion of the first closure; and a second mixing element protruding into the container interior, the second mixing element located on a portion of the second closure, whereby, with the container rotated about the container longitudinal axis, the first mixing element and the second mixing element form at least one vortex which effectuates mixing of a first substance provided within the interior of the container and a second substance provided within the interior of the container. 19. The container assembly of claim 18, wherein the first closure comprises a stopper slidably disposed within the container interior of the container, the stopper sized relative to the container to provide sealing engagement with the sidewall of the container. 20. The container assembly of claim 18, further comprising a first substance within the container interior. 21. The container assembly of claim 20, further comprising a second substance within the container interior. 22. A container assembly comprising:
a container having a first end, a second end, and a sidewall extending therebetween and defining a container interior, the container defining a container longitudinal axis; a first closure sealing the first end of the container; a second closure sealing the second end of the container; and mixing means for creating a vortex upon rotation of the container about the container longitudinal axis, the vortex effectuating mixing of a first substance provided within the container interior and a second substance provided within the container interior. 23. The container assembly of claim 22, further comprising a first substance within the container interior. 24. The container assembly of claim 23, further comprising a second substance within the container interior. 25. A method of mixing a first substance and a second substance contained in a container assembly, the method comprising:
providing a container assembly for containing a first substance and a second substance, the container assembly comprising:
a container having a first end, a second end, and a sidewall extending therebetween and defining a container interior, the container defining a container longitudinal axis;
a first closure sealing the first end of the container;
a second closure sealing the second end of the container; and
a first mixing element protruding into the container interior;
providing at least a first substance and a second substance within the container interior; rotating the container about the container longitudinal axis; and forming at least one vortex via the first mixing element during rotation, such that the at least one vortex effectuates mixing of the first substance and the second substance within the container assembly. | A container assembly with improved mixing dynamics for mixing substances in preparation for injection by an injection device or for the dispersion of additives in the collection and analysis of biological samples is disclosed. In one configuration, the container assembly includes a first mixing element protruding into an interior of a container. With the container rotated about its longitudinal axis, the first mixing element forms at least one vortex which effectuates mixing of a first substance provided within the container interior and a second substance provided within the container interior.1. A container assembly comprising:
a container having a first end, a second end, and a sidewall extending therebetween and defining a container interior, the container defining a container longitudinal axis; a first closure sealing the first end of the container; a second closure sealing the second end of the container; and a first mixing element protruding into the container interior, whereby, with the container rotated about the container longitudinal axis, the first mixing element forms at least one vortex which effectuates mixing of a first substance provided within the container interior and a second substance provided within the container interior. 2. The container assembly of claim 1, wherein the first mixing element is located on a portion of the first closure. 3. The container assembly of claim 1, wherein the first mixing element is located on a portion of the second closure. 4. The container assembly of claim 1, wherein the first mixing element is located on an internal surface of the sidewall of the container. 5. The container assembly of claim 1, wherein the first mixing element forms an asymmetric mixing pattern within at least one of the first and second substances provided within the container interior. 6. The container assembly of claim 1, further comprising a second mixing element protruding into the container interior, whereby, with the container rotated about the container longitudinal axis, the first mixing element and the second mixing element form the at least one vortex which effectuates mixing of the first substance and the second substance within the container assembly. 7. The container assembly of claim 1, wherein the first mixing element comprises at least one mixing fin. 8. The container assembly of claim 7, wherein the at least one mixing fin comprises:
a top portion; a bottom portion; a first mixing face extending from the bottom portion to the top portion at a first angle; and a second mixing face extending from the bottom portion to the top portion at a second angle. 9. The container assembly of claim 8, wherein the first angle equals the second angle. 10. The container assembly of claim 8, wherein the first angle is greater than the second angle. 11. The container assembly of claim 8, wherein the first angle is less than the second angle. 12. The container assembly of claim 8, wherein the first mixing face and the second mixing face have the same shape. 13. The container assembly of claim 8, wherein the first mixing face has a first shape and the second mixing face has a second shape, the second shape being different than the first shape. 14. The container assembly of claim 1, wherein the first mixing element comprises three mixing fins equally spaced about a circumference of a portion of the first closure. 15. The container assembly of claim 1, wherein the first mixing element comprises at least one inclined surface of a portion of the first closure. 16. The container assembly of claim 1, further comprising a first substance within the container interior. 17. The container assembly of claim 16, further comprising a second substance within the container interior. 18. A container assembly comprising:
a container having a first end, a second end, and a sidewall extending therebetween and defining a container interior, the container defining a container longitudinal axis; a first closure sealing the first end of the container; a second closure sealing the second end of the container; a first mixing element protruding into the container interior, the first mixing element located on a portion of the first closure; and a second mixing element protruding into the container interior, the second mixing element located on a portion of the second closure, whereby, with the container rotated about the container longitudinal axis, the first mixing element and the second mixing element form at least one vortex which effectuates mixing of a first substance provided within the interior of the container and a second substance provided within the interior of the container. 19. The container assembly of claim 18, wherein the first closure comprises a stopper slidably disposed within the container interior of the container, the stopper sized relative to the container to provide sealing engagement with the sidewall of the container. 20. The container assembly of claim 18, further comprising a first substance within the container interior. 21. The container assembly of claim 20, further comprising a second substance within the container interior. 22. A container assembly comprising:
a container having a first end, a second end, and a sidewall extending therebetween and defining a container interior, the container defining a container longitudinal axis; a first closure sealing the first end of the container; a second closure sealing the second end of the container; and mixing means for creating a vortex upon rotation of the container about the container longitudinal axis, the vortex effectuating mixing of a first substance provided within the container interior and a second substance provided within the container interior. 23. The container assembly of claim 22, further comprising a first substance within the container interior. 24. The container assembly of claim 23, further comprising a second substance within the container interior. 25. A method of mixing a first substance and a second substance contained in a container assembly, the method comprising:
providing a container assembly for containing a first substance and a second substance, the container assembly comprising:
a container having a first end, a second end, and a sidewall extending therebetween and defining a container interior, the container defining a container longitudinal axis;
a first closure sealing the first end of the container;
a second closure sealing the second end of the container; and
a first mixing element protruding into the container interior;
providing at least a first substance and a second substance within the container interior; rotating the container about the container longitudinal axis; and forming at least one vortex via the first mixing element during rotation, such that the at least one vortex effectuates mixing of the first substance and the second substance within the container assembly. | 1,700 |
4,041 | 14,893,846 | 1,793 | A food product comprising a neutralized yogurt whey. | 1. A food product comprising a neutralized yogurt whey. 2. The food product according to claim 1, wherein the food product is a bakery product. 3. The food product according to claim 1, wherein the food product is a beverage product. 4. The food product according to claim 1, wherein the food product is a snack product. 5. The food product according to claim 1, wherein the food product is a confectionery product. 6. The food product according to claim 1, wherein the food product is a soup product. 7. The food product according to claim 1, wherein the food product is dry meal product. 8. The food product according to claim 1, wherein the food product is a dairy product. 9. A food product comprising yogurt whey, the yogurt whey comprising:
a pH of 6.0 or greater; at least 100 mg calcium per 100 grams of yogurt whey; at least 0.5% wt galactose; and at least 10% wt solids. 10. The food product according to claim 9, wherein the yogurt whey comprises:
a pH of 6.2 or greater; at least 3% wt calcium; at least 5% wt galactose; at least 95% wt solids; and less than 5% wt protein. 11. The food product according to claim 10, wherein the food product is a bakery product. 12. The food product according to claim 10, wherein the food product is a beverage product. 13. The food product according to claim 10, wherein the food product is a snack product. 14. The food product according to claim 10, wherein the food product is a confectionery product. 15. The food product according to claim 10, wherein the food product is a soup product. 16. The food product according to claim 10, wherein the food product is a dry meal product. 17. The food product according to claim 10, wherein the food product is a dairy product. 18. The food product according to claim 10, wherein the food product is a cereal product. | A food product comprising a neutralized yogurt whey.1. A food product comprising a neutralized yogurt whey. 2. The food product according to claim 1, wherein the food product is a bakery product. 3. The food product according to claim 1, wherein the food product is a beverage product. 4. The food product according to claim 1, wherein the food product is a snack product. 5. The food product according to claim 1, wherein the food product is a confectionery product. 6. The food product according to claim 1, wherein the food product is a soup product. 7. The food product according to claim 1, wherein the food product is dry meal product. 8. The food product according to claim 1, wherein the food product is a dairy product. 9. A food product comprising yogurt whey, the yogurt whey comprising:
a pH of 6.0 or greater; at least 100 mg calcium per 100 grams of yogurt whey; at least 0.5% wt galactose; and at least 10% wt solids. 10. The food product according to claim 9, wherein the yogurt whey comprises:
a pH of 6.2 or greater; at least 3% wt calcium; at least 5% wt galactose; at least 95% wt solids; and less than 5% wt protein. 11. The food product according to claim 10, wherein the food product is a bakery product. 12. The food product according to claim 10, wherein the food product is a beverage product. 13. The food product according to claim 10, wherein the food product is a snack product. 14. The food product according to claim 10, wherein the food product is a confectionery product. 15. The food product according to claim 10, wherein the food product is a soup product. 16. The food product according to claim 10, wherein the food product is a dry meal product. 17. The food product according to claim 10, wherein the food product is a dairy product. 18. The food product according to claim 10, wherein the food product is a cereal product. | 1,700 |
4,042 | 14,377,433 | 1,747 | A smoking article is provided, including a combustible heat source with opposed front and rear faces; an aerosol-forming substrate downstream of the rear face of the combustible heat source; an outer wrapper circumscribing the aerosol-forming substrate and at least a rear portion of the combustible heat source; and one or more airflow pathways along which air may be drawn through the smoking article for inhalation by a user. The combustible heat source is isolated from the one or more airflow pathways such that air drawn through the smoking article along the one or more airflow pathways does not directly contact the combustible heat source. | 1. A smoking article comprising:
a combustible heat source having a front end and a rear end; an aerosol-forming substrate downstream of the rear end combustible heat source; an outer wrapper circumscribing the aerosol-forming substrate and at least a rear portion of the combustible heat source; and one or more airflow pathways along which air may be drawn through the smoking article for inhalation by a user, wherein the combustible heat source is isolated from the one or more airflow pathways such that, in use, air drawn through the smoking article along the one or more airflow pathways does not directly contact the combustible heat source. 2. The smoking article according to claim 1, further comprising a non-combustible, substantially air impermeable, first barrier between a downstream end of the combustible heat source and an upstream end of the aerosol-forming substrate. 3. The smoking article according to claim 2, wherein the first barrier comprises a first barrier coating provided on the rear face of the combustible heat source. 4. The smoking article according to claim 1, wherein the one or more airflow pathways comprise one or more airflow channels along the combustible heat source. 5. The smoking article according to claim 4, further comprising a non-combustible, substantially air impermeable, second barrier between the combustible heat source and the one or more airflow channels. 6. The smoking article according to claim 5, wherein the second barrier comprises a second barrier coating provided on an inner surface of the one or more airflow channels. 7. The smoking article according to claim 1, further comprising one or more air inlets downstream of the rear face of the combustible heat source for drawing air into the one or more airflow pathways. 8. The smoking article according to claim 7, further comprising one or more first air inlets between a downstream end of the combustible heat source and an upstream end of the aerosol-forming substrate. 9. The smoking article according to claim 7, further comprising one or more second air inlets about the periphery of the aerosol-forming substrate for drawing air into the one or more airflow pathways. 10. The smoking article according to claim 7, further comprising one or more third air inlets downstream of the aerosol-forming substrate for drawing air into the one or more airflow pathways. 11. The smoking article according to claim 10, wherein the one or more airflow pathways comprise a first portion extending from the one or more third air inlets to the aerosol-forming substrate and a second portion extending from the aerosol-forming substrate to a mouth end of the smoking article. 12. The smoking article according to claim 1, further comprising:
a heat-conducting element around and in direct contact with a rear portion of the combustible heat source and a front portion of the aerosol-forming substrate. 13. The smoking article according to claim 1, further comprising:
an expansion chamber downstream of the aerosol-forming substrate. 14. A combustible heat source with opposed front and rear faces for use in a smoking article according to claim 1, wherein the combustible heat source has a non-combustible, substantially air impermeable first barrier provided on at least substantially the entire rear face of the combustible heat source, and the first barrier is adhered or otherwise affixed to the rear face of the combustible heat source. 15. A method of reducing or eliminating increases in temperature of an aerosol-forming substrate of a smoking article during puffing, the method comprising providing a smoking article comprising:
a combustible heat source with opposed front and rear faces; an aerosol-forming substrate downstream of the rear face of the combustible heat source; an outer wrapper circumscribing the aerosol-forming substrate and at least a rear portion of the combustible heat source; and one or more airflow pathways along which air may be drawn through the smoking article for inhalation by a user, wherein the combustible heat source is isolated from the one or more airflow pathways such that air drawn through the smoking article along the one or more airflow pathways does not directly contact the combustible heat source. | A smoking article is provided, including a combustible heat source with opposed front and rear faces; an aerosol-forming substrate downstream of the rear face of the combustible heat source; an outer wrapper circumscribing the aerosol-forming substrate and at least a rear portion of the combustible heat source; and one or more airflow pathways along which air may be drawn through the smoking article for inhalation by a user. The combustible heat source is isolated from the one or more airflow pathways such that air drawn through the smoking article along the one or more airflow pathways does not directly contact the combustible heat source.1. A smoking article comprising:
a combustible heat source having a front end and a rear end; an aerosol-forming substrate downstream of the rear end combustible heat source; an outer wrapper circumscribing the aerosol-forming substrate and at least a rear portion of the combustible heat source; and one or more airflow pathways along which air may be drawn through the smoking article for inhalation by a user, wherein the combustible heat source is isolated from the one or more airflow pathways such that, in use, air drawn through the smoking article along the one or more airflow pathways does not directly contact the combustible heat source. 2. The smoking article according to claim 1, further comprising a non-combustible, substantially air impermeable, first barrier between a downstream end of the combustible heat source and an upstream end of the aerosol-forming substrate. 3. The smoking article according to claim 2, wherein the first barrier comprises a first barrier coating provided on the rear face of the combustible heat source. 4. The smoking article according to claim 1, wherein the one or more airflow pathways comprise one or more airflow channels along the combustible heat source. 5. The smoking article according to claim 4, further comprising a non-combustible, substantially air impermeable, second barrier between the combustible heat source and the one or more airflow channels. 6. The smoking article according to claim 5, wherein the second barrier comprises a second barrier coating provided on an inner surface of the one or more airflow channels. 7. The smoking article according to claim 1, further comprising one or more air inlets downstream of the rear face of the combustible heat source for drawing air into the one or more airflow pathways. 8. The smoking article according to claim 7, further comprising one or more first air inlets between a downstream end of the combustible heat source and an upstream end of the aerosol-forming substrate. 9. The smoking article according to claim 7, further comprising one or more second air inlets about the periphery of the aerosol-forming substrate for drawing air into the one or more airflow pathways. 10. The smoking article according to claim 7, further comprising one or more third air inlets downstream of the aerosol-forming substrate for drawing air into the one or more airflow pathways. 11. The smoking article according to claim 10, wherein the one or more airflow pathways comprise a first portion extending from the one or more third air inlets to the aerosol-forming substrate and a second portion extending from the aerosol-forming substrate to a mouth end of the smoking article. 12. The smoking article according to claim 1, further comprising:
a heat-conducting element around and in direct contact with a rear portion of the combustible heat source and a front portion of the aerosol-forming substrate. 13. The smoking article according to claim 1, further comprising:
an expansion chamber downstream of the aerosol-forming substrate. 14. A combustible heat source with opposed front and rear faces for use in a smoking article according to claim 1, wherein the combustible heat source has a non-combustible, substantially air impermeable first barrier provided on at least substantially the entire rear face of the combustible heat source, and the first barrier is adhered or otherwise affixed to the rear face of the combustible heat source. 15. A method of reducing or eliminating increases in temperature of an aerosol-forming substrate of a smoking article during puffing, the method comprising providing a smoking article comprising:
a combustible heat source with opposed front and rear faces; an aerosol-forming substrate downstream of the rear face of the combustible heat source; an outer wrapper circumscribing the aerosol-forming substrate and at least a rear portion of the combustible heat source; and one or more airflow pathways along which air may be drawn through the smoking article for inhalation by a user, wherein the combustible heat source is isolated from the one or more airflow pathways such that air drawn through the smoking article along the one or more airflow pathways does not directly contact the combustible heat source. | 1,700 |
4,043 | 15,488,037 | 1,712 | A method may include oxidizing a surface of a silicon-containing substrate to form a layer including silica on the surface of the silicon-containing substrate. The method also may include depositing, from a slurry including at least one rare earth oxide, a layer including the at least one rare earth oxide on the layer including silicon. The method additionally may include heating at least the layer including silica and the layer including the at least one rare earth oxide to cause the silica and the at least one rare earth oxide to react and form a layer including at least one rare earth silicate. | 1. A method comprising:
oxidizing a surface of a silicon-containing substrate to form a layer including silica on the surface of the silicon-containing substrate; depositing, from a slurry including at least one rare earth oxide, a layer including the at least one rare earth oxide on the layer including silica; and heating at least the layer including silica and the layer including the at least one rare earth oxide to cause the silica and the at least one rare earth oxide to react and form a layer including at least one rare earth silicate. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein oxidizing the surface of the silicon-containing substrate comprises heating the silicon-containing substrate in an oxidizing atmosphere at a temperature between about 1200° C. and about 1400° C. for between about 24 hours and about 100 hours. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the silicon-containing substrate comprises at least one of a silicon-containing ceramic or a silicon-containing ceramic matrix composite. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the silicon-containing substrate comprises a silicon carbide-silicon carbide ceramic matrix composite. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the slurry comprises particles comprising the at least one rare earth oxide, a polar solvent, and a polyelectrolyte. 6. The method of claim 5, wherein the polyelectrolyte comprises an alkali free polyelectrolyte. 7. The method of claim 6, wherein the polyelectrolyte comprises triammonium salt of aurinicarboxylic acid or an acrylic ammonium salt. 8. The method of claim 5, wherein the slurry comprises between about 0.5 and about 5 wt. % of the polyelectrolyte. 9. The method claim 5, wherein the slurry further comprises a non-alkali acid or base. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the slurry comprises particles comprising the at least one rare earth oxide, a non-polar or low polarity solvent, and a non-polar or low polarity stabilizing agent. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the non-polar or low polarity stabilizing agent comprises at least one polymeric surfactant. 12. The method of claim 10, wherein the slurry comprises between about 0.5 and about 5 wt. % of the non-polar or low polarity stabilizing agent. 13. The method of claim 1, further comprising heating the layer including the at least one rare earth oxide to remove substantially all of a solvent of the slurry. 14. The method of claim 1, wherein the at least one rare earth oxide includes at least one of Yb2O3, Y2O3, Er2O3, or Lu2O3. 15. The method of claim 1, wherein the at least one rare earth silicate comprises at least one of a rare earth monosilicate or a rare earth disilicate. 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the at least one rare earth silicate comprises at least one of Yb2SiO5, Yb2Si2O7, Y2SiO5, Y2Si2O7, Er2SiO5, Er2Si2O7, Lu2SiO5, or Lu2Si2O7. 17. The method of claim 1, wherein heating at least the layer including silica and the layer including the at least one rare earth oxide to cause the silica and the at least one rare earth oxide to react and form the layer including the at least one rare earth silicate comprises wherein heating at least the layer including silica and the layer including the at least one rare earth oxide at a temperature between about 1300° C. and about 1400° C. for between about 24 hours and about 100 hours. 18. The method of claim 1, wherein the layer including the at least one rare earth silicate further comprises free silica and free rare earth oxide, wherein the at least one rare earth silicate further comprises a concentration gradient, wherein a concentration of free silica is highest adjacent the surface of the silicon-containing substrate, and wherein a concentration of free rare earth oxide is highest adjacent an outer surface of the layer including the at least one rare earth silicate. 19. The method of claim 1, further comprising smoothing the surface of the silicon-containing substrate prior to oxidizing the surface of a silicon-containing substrate. 20. A method comprising:
heating a silicon-containing substrate at a temperature between about 1200° C. and about 1400° C. to oxidize a surface of a silicon-containing substrate to form a layer including silica on the surface of the silicon-containing substrate; depositing, from a slurry including at least one of ytterbium, yttrium, erbium, or lutetium, a layer including the at least one of ytterbium, yttrium, erbium, or lutetium on the layer including silica; and heating at least the layer including silica and the layer including the at least one of ytterbium, yttrium, erbium, or lutetium at a temperature between about 1300° C. and about 1400° C. to cause the silica and the at least one of ytterbium, yttrium, erbium, or lutetium to react and form a layer including at least one of Yb2SiO5, Yb2Si2O7, Y2SiO5, Y2Si2O7, Er2SiO5, Er2Si2O7, Lu2SiO5, or Lu2Si2O7. | A method may include oxidizing a surface of a silicon-containing substrate to form a layer including silica on the surface of the silicon-containing substrate. The method also may include depositing, from a slurry including at least one rare earth oxide, a layer including the at least one rare earth oxide on the layer including silicon. The method additionally may include heating at least the layer including silica and the layer including the at least one rare earth oxide to cause the silica and the at least one rare earth oxide to react and form a layer including at least one rare earth silicate.1. A method comprising:
oxidizing a surface of a silicon-containing substrate to form a layer including silica on the surface of the silicon-containing substrate; depositing, from a slurry including at least one rare earth oxide, a layer including the at least one rare earth oxide on the layer including silica; and heating at least the layer including silica and the layer including the at least one rare earth oxide to cause the silica and the at least one rare earth oxide to react and form a layer including at least one rare earth silicate. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein oxidizing the surface of the silicon-containing substrate comprises heating the silicon-containing substrate in an oxidizing atmosphere at a temperature between about 1200° C. and about 1400° C. for between about 24 hours and about 100 hours. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the silicon-containing substrate comprises at least one of a silicon-containing ceramic or a silicon-containing ceramic matrix composite. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the silicon-containing substrate comprises a silicon carbide-silicon carbide ceramic matrix composite. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the slurry comprises particles comprising the at least one rare earth oxide, a polar solvent, and a polyelectrolyte. 6. The method of claim 5, wherein the polyelectrolyte comprises an alkali free polyelectrolyte. 7. The method of claim 6, wherein the polyelectrolyte comprises triammonium salt of aurinicarboxylic acid or an acrylic ammonium salt. 8. The method of claim 5, wherein the slurry comprises between about 0.5 and about 5 wt. % of the polyelectrolyte. 9. The method claim 5, wherein the slurry further comprises a non-alkali acid or base. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the slurry comprises particles comprising the at least one rare earth oxide, a non-polar or low polarity solvent, and a non-polar or low polarity stabilizing agent. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the non-polar or low polarity stabilizing agent comprises at least one polymeric surfactant. 12. The method of claim 10, wherein the slurry comprises between about 0.5 and about 5 wt. % of the non-polar or low polarity stabilizing agent. 13. The method of claim 1, further comprising heating the layer including the at least one rare earth oxide to remove substantially all of a solvent of the slurry. 14. The method of claim 1, wherein the at least one rare earth oxide includes at least one of Yb2O3, Y2O3, Er2O3, or Lu2O3. 15. The method of claim 1, wherein the at least one rare earth silicate comprises at least one of a rare earth monosilicate or a rare earth disilicate. 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the at least one rare earth silicate comprises at least one of Yb2SiO5, Yb2Si2O7, Y2SiO5, Y2Si2O7, Er2SiO5, Er2Si2O7, Lu2SiO5, or Lu2Si2O7. 17. The method of claim 1, wherein heating at least the layer including silica and the layer including the at least one rare earth oxide to cause the silica and the at least one rare earth oxide to react and form the layer including the at least one rare earth silicate comprises wherein heating at least the layer including silica and the layer including the at least one rare earth oxide at a temperature between about 1300° C. and about 1400° C. for between about 24 hours and about 100 hours. 18. The method of claim 1, wherein the layer including the at least one rare earth silicate further comprises free silica and free rare earth oxide, wherein the at least one rare earth silicate further comprises a concentration gradient, wherein a concentration of free silica is highest adjacent the surface of the silicon-containing substrate, and wherein a concentration of free rare earth oxide is highest adjacent an outer surface of the layer including the at least one rare earth silicate. 19. The method of claim 1, further comprising smoothing the surface of the silicon-containing substrate prior to oxidizing the surface of a silicon-containing substrate. 20. A method comprising:
heating a silicon-containing substrate at a temperature between about 1200° C. and about 1400° C. to oxidize a surface of a silicon-containing substrate to form a layer including silica on the surface of the silicon-containing substrate; depositing, from a slurry including at least one of ytterbium, yttrium, erbium, or lutetium, a layer including the at least one of ytterbium, yttrium, erbium, or lutetium on the layer including silica; and heating at least the layer including silica and the layer including the at least one of ytterbium, yttrium, erbium, or lutetium at a temperature between about 1300° C. and about 1400° C. to cause the silica and the at least one of ytterbium, yttrium, erbium, or lutetium to react and form a layer including at least one of Yb2SiO5, Yb2Si2O7, Y2SiO5, Y2Si2O7, Er2SiO5, Er2Si2O7, Lu2SiO5, or Lu2Si2O7. | 1,700 |
4,044 | 13,472,774 | 1,792 | A combination oven includes a cooking cavity accessible via a door, a convection cooking system associated with the cooking cavity for heating the cooking cavity and a moisture delivery arrangement for delivering moisture into the cooking cavity. A controller is configured to (i) control the convection cooking system for a cooking operation in accordance with an operator selected temperature for the cooking operation and (ii) automatically define a humidity level setting for the cooking operation as a function of the operator selected temperature. An oven may also include an automated vent operation. | 1. A combination oven, comprising:
a cooking cavity accessible via a door; a convection cooking system associated with the cooking cavity for heating the cooking cavity; a moisture delivery arrangement for delivering moisture into the cooking cavity; a controller configured to (i) control the convection cooking system for a cooking operation in accordance with an operator selected temperature for the cooking operation and (ii) automatically define a humidity level setting for the cooking operation as a function of the operator selected temperature. 2. The combination oven of claim 1 wherein the controller is further configured to (iii) control the moisture delivery arrangement during the cooking operation to achieve the defined humidity level setting in the cooking cavity during the cooking operation. 3. The combination oven of claim 2, further comprising:
a vent intake and exhaust arrangement for exhausting air from the cooking cavity while drawing in ambient air; wherein the controller is programmed to control the vent intake and exhaust arrangement, in combination with the moisture delivery intake arrangement, to achieve the defined humidity level in the cooking cavity during the cooking operation. 4. The combination oven of claim 2, further comprising:
a humidity level monitoring arrangement associated with the cooking cavity for determining humidity level within the cooking cavity, the humidity level monitoring arrangement including at least one sensor operatively connected with the controller. 5. The combination oven of claim 1 wherein the controller includes associated memory storing at least one temperature-humidity profile that is accessed to define the humidity level. 6. The combination oven of claim 5 wherein multiple temperature-humidity profiles are stored in memory, the controller programmed to enable one of the temperature-humidity profiles to be selected as an active temperature-humidity profile that will be accessed for the purpose of defining the humidity level. 7. The combination oven of claim 1, further comprising:
an oven control interface including:
an input for selecting temperature for the cooking operation;
a display for displaying the selected temperature;
a display for displaying the automatically defined humidity level for the cooking operation;
an input for manually adjusting humidity level to permit operator variance of the defined humidity level setting;
an input for selecting duration for the cooking operation;
wherein the controller and oven control interface are configured such that an operator can only set or select temperature, humidity level and duration for a cooking operation and the operator can only define a single stage cooking operation. 8. The combination oven of claim 7, further comprising:
a vent intake and exhaust arrangement for exhausting air from the cooking cavity while drawing in ambient air; wherein the controller is configured to automatically carry out a cavity vent operation at the end of the selected duration of the cooking operation, the controller configured such that during the cavity vent operation the controller will (i) control the moisture delivery arrangement to cease addition of steam or moisture and (ii) turn on the vent intake and exhaust arrangement. 9. The combination oven of claim 8 wherein the controller is configured such that a duration of the cavity vent operation is automatically set by the controller according to the temperature setting and/or humidity level setting of the cooking operation such that variances in temperature or humidity level settings potentially result in variances in duration of the cavity vent operation. 10. The combination oven of claim 1, further comprising:
an oven control interface including:
an input for selecting temperature for the cooking operation;
a display for displaying the selected temperature;
a display for displaying the automatically defined humidity level for the cooking operation;
wherein the controller is configured with a customize mode in which discrete temperatures may be identified and stored for future use in cooking operations, such that once the discrete temperatures are identified and stored, in a subsequent cooking mode only the identified and stored temperatures can be selected by the operator for cooking operations. 11. A method of cooking a food product using a combination oven having a cooking cavity accessible via a door, a convection cooking system associated with the cooking cavity for heating the cooking cavity and a moisture delivery arrangement for delivering moisture into the cooking cavity, the method comprising:
an operator using an input device to select a temperature setting for a cooking operation; and a controller of the oven automatically defining a humidity level setting for the cooking operation as a function of the operator selected temperature setting. 12. The method of claim 11 wherein the humidity level is automatically defined by reference to a stored temperature-humidity profile. 13. The method of claim 12, including the further step of providing multiple stored temperature-humidity profiles and enabling selection of an active one of the stored temperature-humidity profiles. 14. The method of claim 11, comprising the further step of:
automatically carrying out a cavity vent operation at the end of the cooking operation by (i) controlling a moisture delivery arrangement of the oven to cease addition of moisture to the cooking cavity and (ii) turning on a vent intake and exhaust arrangement of the oven to exhaust moist air from the cavity while drawing in ambient air. 15. The method of claim 12, wherein the controller is configured such that only a discrete number of temperature options are made available for operator selection for the cooking operation. 16. A combination oven, comprising:
a cooking cavity accessible via a door; a convection cooking system associated with the cooking cavity for heating the cooking cavity; a moisture delivery arrangement for delivering moisture into the cooking cavity; an oven control interface including:
an input for selecting temperature for the cooking operation;
a display for displaying the selected temperature;
a controller configured to control the convection cooking system for a cooking operation in accordance with an operator selected temperature for the cooking operation, wherein the controller is configured with a customize mode by which the discrete temperatures to be made available for operator selection can be varied. 17. The combination oven of claim 15 wherein upon setting of the discrete temperatures in the customize mode, only the discrete temperatures will be displayed to the operator for use in subsequent cooking operations. 18. The combination oven of claim 16 wherein the customize mode is a supervisor initiated mode that can only be accessed by using the oven control interface to enter the supervisor mode. 19. A combination oven, comprising:
a cooking cavity accessible via a door; a convection cooking system associated with the cooking cavity for heating the cooking cavity; a moisture delivery arrangement for delivering moisture into the cooking cavity; a vent intake and exhaust arrangement for exhausting air from the cooking cavity while drawing in ambient air; a controller configured to:
(i) control the convection cooking system for a cooking operation,
(ii) control the moisture delivery arrangement and the vent intake and exhaust arrangement in accordance with a humidity level defined for the cooking operation, and
(iii) automatically carry out a cavity vent operation at the end of the cooking operation, the controller configured such that during the cavity vent operation the controller will (a) control the moisture delivery arrangement to cease addition of steam or moisture and (b) turn on the vent intake and exhaust arrangement to exhaust moist air from the oven while drawing in ambient air. 20. The combination oven of claim 19 wherein the controller is configured such that a duration of the cavity vent operation is automatically set by the controller as a function of the temperature setting and/or humidity level setting of the cooking operation such that variances in temperature setting and/or humidity level setting potentially result in variances in duration of the cavity vent operation. 21. The combination oven of claim 20 wherein the cavity vent operation is carried out (i) during a last segment of a defined duration of the cooking operation or (ii) upon completion of the defined duration of the cooking operation or (iii) upon food product reaching a desired cook temperature. | A combination oven includes a cooking cavity accessible via a door, a convection cooking system associated with the cooking cavity for heating the cooking cavity and a moisture delivery arrangement for delivering moisture into the cooking cavity. A controller is configured to (i) control the convection cooking system for a cooking operation in accordance with an operator selected temperature for the cooking operation and (ii) automatically define a humidity level setting for the cooking operation as a function of the operator selected temperature. An oven may also include an automated vent operation.1. A combination oven, comprising:
a cooking cavity accessible via a door; a convection cooking system associated with the cooking cavity for heating the cooking cavity; a moisture delivery arrangement for delivering moisture into the cooking cavity; a controller configured to (i) control the convection cooking system for a cooking operation in accordance with an operator selected temperature for the cooking operation and (ii) automatically define a humidity level setting for the cooking operation as a function of the operator selected temperature. 2. The combination oven of claim 1 wherein the controller is further configured to (iii) control the moisture delivery arrangement during the cooking operation to achieve the defined humidity level setting in the cooking cavity during the cooking operation. 3. The combination oven of claim 2, further comprising:
a vent intake and exhaust arrangement for exhausting air from the cooking cavity while drawing in ambient air; wherein the controller is programmed to control the vent intake and exhaust arrangement, in combination with the moisture delivery intake arrangement, to achieve the defined humidity level in the cooking cavity during the cooking operation. 4. The combination oven of claim 2, further comprising:
a humidity level monitoring arrangement associated with the cooking cavity for determining humidity level within the cooking cavity, the humidity level monitoring arrangement including at least one sensor operatively connected with the controller. 5. The combination oven of claim 1 wherein the controller includes associated memory storing at least one temperature-humidity profile that is accessed to define the humidity level. 6. The combination oven of claim 5 wherein multiple temperature-humidity profiles are stored in memory, the controller programmed to enable one of the temperature-humidity profiles to be selected as an active temperature-humidity profile that will be accessed for the purpose of defining the humidity level. 7. The combination oven of claim 1, further comprising:
an oven control interface including:
an input for selecting temperature for the cooking operation;
a display for displaying the selected temperature;
a display for displaying the automatically defined humidity level for the cooking operation;
an input for manually adjusting humidity level to permit operator variance of the defined humidity level setting;
an input for selecting duration for the cooking operation;
wherein the controller and oven control interface are configured such that an operator can only set or select temperature, humidity level and duration for a cooking operation and the operator can only define a single stage cooking operation. 8. The combination oven of claim 7, further comprising:
a vent intake and exhaust arrangement for exhausting air from the cooking cavity while drawing in ambient air; wherein the controller is configured to automatically carry out a cavity vent operation at the end of the selected duration of the cooking operation, the controller configured such that during the cavity vent operation the controller will (i) control the moisture delivery arrangement to cease addition of steam or moisture and (ii) turn on the vent intake and exhaust arrangement. 9. The combination oven of claim 8 wherein the controller is configured such that a duration of the cavity vent operation is automatically set by the controller according to the temperature setting and/or humidity level setting of the cooking operation such that variances in temperature or humidity level settings potentially result in variances in duration of the cavity vent operation. 10. The combination oven of claim 1, further comprising:
an oven control interface including:
an input for selecting temperature for the cooking operation;
a display for displaying the selected temperature;
a display for displaying the automatically defined humidity level for the cooking operation;
wherein the controller is configured with a customize mode in which discrete temperatures may be identified and stored for future use in cooking operations, such that once the discrete temperatures are identified and stored, in a subsequent cooking mode only the identified and stored temperatures can be selected by the operator for cooking operations. 11. A method of cooking a food product using a combination oven having a cooking cavity accessible via a door, a convection cooking system associated with the cooking cavity for heating the cooking cavity and a moisture delivery arrangement for delivering moisture into the cooking cavity, the method comprising:
an operator using an input device to select a temperature setting for a cooking operation; and a controller of the oven automatically defining a humidity level setting for the cooking operation as a function of the operator selected temperature setting. 12. The method of claim 11 wherein the humidity level is automatically defined by reference to a stored temperature-humidity profile. 13. The method of claim 12, including the further step of providing multiple stored temperature-humidity profiles and enabling selection of an active one of the stored temperature-humidity profiles. 14. The method of claim 11, comprising the further step of:
automatically carrying out a cavity vent operation at the end of the cooking operation by (i) controlling a moisture delivery arrangement of the oven to cease addition of moisture to the cooking cavity and (ii) turning on a vent intake and exhaust arrangement of the oven to exhaust moist air from the cavity while drawing in ambient air. 15. The method of claim 12, wherein the controller is configured such that only a discrete number of temperature options are made available for operator selection for the cooking operation. 16. A combination oven, comprising:
a cooking cavity accessible via a door; a convection cooking system associated with the cooking cavity for heating the cooking cavity; a moisture delivery arrangement for delivering moisture into the cooking cavity; an oven control interface including:
an input for selecting temperature for the cooking operation;
a display for displaying the selected temperature;
a controller configured to control the convection cooking system for a cooking operation in accordance with an operator selected temperature for the cooking operation, wherein the controller is configured with a customize mode by which the discrete temperatures to be made available for operator selection can be varied. 17. The combination oven of claim 15 wherein upon setting of the discrete temperatures in the customize mode, only the discrete temperatures will be displayed to the operator for use in subsequent cooking operations. 18. The combination oven of claim 16 wherein the customize mode is a supervisor initiated mode that can only be accessed by using the oven control interface to enter the supervisor mode. 19. A combination oven, comprising:
a cooking cavity accessible via a door; a convection cooking system associated with the cooking cavity for heating the cooking cavity; a moisture delivery arrangement for delivering moisture into the cooking cavity; a vent intake and exhaust arrangement for exhausting air from the cooking cavity while drawing in ambient air; a controller configured to:
(i) control the convection cooking system for a cooking operation,
(ii) control the moisture delivery arrangement and the vent intake and exhaust arrangement in accordance with a humidity level defined for the cooking operation, and
(iii) automatically carry out a cavity vent operation at the end of the cooking operation, the controller configured such that during the cavity vent operation the controller will (a) control the moisture delivery arrangement to cease addition of steam or moisture and (b) turn on the vent intake and exhaust arrangement to exhaust moist air from the oven while drawing in ambient air. 20. The combination oven of claim 19 wherein the controller is configured such that a duration of the cavity vent operation is automatically set by the controller as a function of the temperature setting and/or humidity level setting of the cooking operation such that variances in temperature setting and/or humidity level setting potentially result in variances in duration of the cavity vent operation. 21. The combination oven of claim 20 wherein the cavity vent operation is carried out (i) during a last segment of a defined duration of the cooking operation or (ii) upon completion of the defined duration of the cooking operation or (iii) upon food product reaching a desired cook temperature. | 1,700 |
4,045 | 15,313,081 | 1,764 | Methods of making components for a medicinal delivery device are described, in which a primer composition comprising a silane having two or more reactive silane groups separated by an organic linker group is applied to a surface of a component, then a coating composition comprising an at least partially fluorinated compound is applied to the primed surface. The surface may be a polymer surface. Corresponding coated components and a medicinal delivery device are disclosed. Methods of making metal components are described in which a coating composition comprising an at least partially fluorinated compound is applied to a surface cleaned with a solvent. | 1. A method of making a component for a medicinal delivery device, the method comprising
a) providing a component of a medicinal delivery device, b) providing a primer composition comprising a silane having two or more reactive silane groups separated by an organic linker group, c) providing a coating composition comprising an at least partially fluorinated compound, d) applying the primer composition to at least a portion of the surface of the component, e) applying the coating composition to the portion of the surface of the component after application of the primer composition. 2. A method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the silane having two or more reactive silane groups is of formula
X3-m(R1)mSi-Q-Si(R2)kX3-k
wherein R1 and R2 are independently selected univalent groups, X is a hydrolysable or hydroxy group, m and k are independently 0, 1, or 2 and Q is a divalent organic linking group. 3. A method as claimed in claim 2, wherein Q is of formula —(CH2)i-A-(CH2)j— wherein A is NRn, O, or S; i and j are independently 0, 1, 2, 3 or 4 and wherein Rn is H or C1 to C4 alkyl. 4. A method as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the partially fluorinated compound is a polyfluoropolyether silane of formula
RfQ1 v[Q2 w-[C(R4)2—Si(X)3-x(R5)x]y]z
wherein:
Rf is a polyfluoropolyether moiety;
Q1 is a trivalent linking group;
each Q2 is an independently selected organic divalent or trivalent linking group;
each R4 is independently hydrogen or a C1-4 alkyl group;
each X is independently a hydrolysable or hydroxyl group;
R5 R is a C1-8 alkyl or phenyl group;
v and w are independently 0 or 1, x is 0 or 1 or 2; y is 1 or 2; and z is 2, 3, or 4. 5. A method as claimed in claim 4, wherein the polyfluoropolyether moiety Rf comprises perfluorinated repeating units selected from the group consisting of —(CnF2nO)—, —(CF(Z)O)—, —(CF(Z)CnF2nO)—, —(CnF2nSF(Z)O)—, —(CF2CF(Z)O)—, and combinations thereof; wherein n is an integer from 1 to 6 and Z is a perfluoroalkyl group, an oxygen-containing perfluoroalkyl group, a perfluoroalkoxy group, or an oxygen-substituted perfluoroalkoxy group, each of which can be linear, branched, or cyclic, and have 1 to 5 carbon atoms and up to 4 oxygen atoms when oxygen-containing or oxygen-substituted and wherein for repeating units including Z the number of carbon atoms in sequence is at most 6. 6. A method of making a component for a medicinal delivery device, the method comprising
a) providing a component of a medicinal delivery device, b) providing a coating composition comprising an at least partially fluorinated compound, d) cleaning at least a portion of the surface of the component using a solvent comprising a hydrofluoroether of formula
CgF2g+1OChH2h+1
wherein g is 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 and h is 1, 2, 3 or 4
e) applying the coating composition to the portion of the surface of the component after cleaning with the solvent. 7. A method as claimed in claim 6, wherein the hydrofluoroether is selected from the group consisting of methyl heptafluoropropylether; ethyl heptafluoropropylether ; methyl nonafluorobutylether; ethyl nonafluorobutylether and mixtures thereof. 8. A method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said surface is a metal surface, in particular a surface of an aluminium alloy, an iron alloy, or a steel alloy. 9. A method as claimed in claim 1, where said medicinal delivery device is a metered dose inhaler or a dry powder inhaler. 10. A method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the component is a component of a metered dose inhaler and the component is selected from the group consisting of an actuator, an aerosol container, a ferrule, a valve body, a valve stem and a compression spring. 11. A medicinal delivery device assembled from at least one component made as claimed in claim 1. 12. A method as referred in claim 5, wherein the number of linked perfluorinated repeating units is in the range 20 to 40. 13. A method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said portion of surface is a polymer surface. 14. A method as claimed in claim 13 wherein the component is at least partly made of said polymer. 15. A method as claimed in claim 13, wherein the silane having two or more reactive silane groups is of formula
X3-m(R1)mSi-Q-Si(R2)kX3-k
wherein R1 and R2 are independently selected univalent groups, X is a hydrolysable or hydroxy group, m and k are independently 0, 1, or 2 and Q is a divalent organic linking group, comprising a substituted C2 to C12 hydrocarbyl chain and one or more amine groups. 16. A method as claimed in 13, wherein the at least partially fluorinated compound is polyfluoropolyether silane of the Formula Ia:
Rf[Q1-[C(R)2—Si(Y)3-x(R1a)x]y]z Ia
wherein:
Rf is a monovalent or multivalent polyfluoropolyether moiety;
Q1 is an organic divalent or trivalent linking group;
each R is independently hydrogen or a C1-4 alkyl group;
each Y is independently a hydrolysable group;
R1a is a C1-8 alkyl or phenyl group;
x is 0 or 1 or 2;
y is 1 or 2; and
z is 1, 2, 3, or 4. 17. A method as claimed in claim 16, wherein the polyfluoropolyether moiety Rf is C3F7O(CF(CF3)CF2O)pCF(CF3)—, wherein the average value of p is in the range 3 to 50. 18. A method as claimed in claim 16, wherein z=1. 19. A method as claimed in claim 16, wherein y=1. 20. A method as claimed in claim 16, wherein Q1 contains one or more functional groups selected from the group consisting of esters, amides, sulfonamides, carbonyl, carbonates, ureylenes, and carbamates. 21. A method as claimed in claim 20 wherein Q1 comprises from 2 to 25 linearly arranged carbon atoms, optionally interrupted by one or more heteroatoms. 22. A method as claimed in claim 13, wherein the polymer is a thermoplastic. 23. A method as claimed in claim 22, wherein the thermoplastic material is selected from the group consisting of polyolefines, a polyesters, polyoxymethylene, nylons, and copolymers comprising acrylonitrile, butadiene and styrene. 24. A coated component for a medicinal delivery device comprising a component and a fluorine-containing coating, wherein the fluorine-containing coating comprises two layers, a first polyfluoropolyether-containing layer comprising polyfluoropolyether silane entities of the following Formula Ib:
Rf[Q1-[C(R)2—Si(O—)3-x(R1a)x]y]z Ib
which shares at least one covalent bond with a second non-fluorinated layer comprising entities of the following Formula
(—O)3-m-n(X)n(R1)mSi-Q-Si(R2)k(X)l(O—)3-k-l IIb
which in turn shares at least one covalent bond with the component; and wherein:
Rf is a monovalent or multivalent polyfluoropolyether segment;
Q1 is an organic divalent or trivalent linking group;
each R is independently hydrogen or a C1-4 alkyl group;
RIa is a C1-8 alkyl or phenyl group;
k, 1, m and n are independently 0, 1 or 2, but with the priviso that m+n and k+1 are at most 2;
x is 0 or 1 or 2;
y is 1 or 2; and
z is 1, 2, 3, or 4;
R1 and R2 are independently selected univalent groups, X is a hydrolysable or hydroxy group, m and k are independently 0, 1, or 2 and Q is a divalent organic linking group, comprising a substituted C2 to C12 hydrocarbyl chain and one or more amine groups. 25. A coated component for a medicinal delivery device as claimed in claim 24, wherein z=1. 26. A coated component for a medicinal delivery device as claimed in claim 24, wherein y=1. 27. A coated component for a medicinal delivery device as claimed in claim 26, wherein the entity of Formula IIb shares a covalent bond with a polymer surface of the component. 28. A coated component for a medicinal delivery device as claimed in claim 26, wherein Q1 includes one or more organic linking groups selected from —C(O)N(R)—(CH2)k—, —S(O)2N(R)—(CH2)k—, —(CH2)k—, —CH2O—(CH2)k—, —C(O)S—(CH2)k—, —CH2OC(O)N(R)—(CH2)k—, wherein R is hydrogen or C1-4 alkyl, and k is 2 to about 25, preferably k is 2 to about 15, more preferably k is 2 to about 10. 29. A coated component for a medicinal delivery device as claimed in claim 24, wherein y=2. 30. A coated component for a medicinal delivery device as claimed in claim 29, wherein the entity of Formula IIb shares a covalent bond with a metal surface of the component, in particular a surface of an aluminium alloy, an iron alloy, or a steel alloy. 31. A coated component for a medicinal delivery device as claimed in claim 29, wherein Q1 includes as organic linking group
—CH2OCH2CH(OC(O)NH(CH2)3—)CH2OC(O)NH(CH2)3—
or
—C(O)NHCH2CH[OC(O)NH—]CH2OC(O)NH—. 32. A coated component for a medicinal delivery device as claimed in claim 24, wherein the component is a component of a metered dose inhaler. 33. A coated component as claimed in claim 32, wherein the component is selected from the group consisting of an actuator, an aerosol container, a ferrule, a valve body, a valve stem and a compression spring. 34. A medicinal delivery device assembled from at least one coated component as claimed in claim 24. | Methods of making components for a medicinal delivery device are described, in which a primer composition comprising a silane having two or more reactive silane groups separated by an organic linker group is applied to a surface of a component, then a coating composition comprising an at least partially fluorinated compound is applied to the primed surface. The surface may be a polymer surface. Corresponding coated components and a medicinal delivery device are disclosed. Methods of making metal components are described in which a coating composition comprising an at least partially fluorinated compound is applied to a surface cleaned with a solvent.1. A method of making a component for a medicinal delivery device, the method comprising
a) providing a component of a medicinal delivery device, b) providing a primer composition comprising a silane having two or more reactive silane groups separated by an organic linker group, c) providing a coating composition comprising an at least partially fluorinated compound, d) applying the primer composition to at least a portion of the surface of the component, e) applying the coating composition to the portion of the surface of the component after application of the primer composition. 2. A method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the silane having two or more reactive silane groups is of formula
X3-m(R1)mSi-Q-Si(R2)kX3-k
wherein R1 and R2 are independently selected univalent groups, X is a hydrolysable or hydroxy group, m and k are independently 0, 1, or 2 and Q is a divalent organic linking group. 3. A method as claimed in claim 2, wherein Q is of formula —(CH2)i-A-(CH2)j— wherein A is NRn, O, or S; i and j are independently 0, 1, 2, 3 or 4 and wherein Rn is H or C1 to C4 alkyl. 4. A method as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the partially fluorinated compound is a polyfluoropolyether silane of formula
RfQ1 v[Q2 w-[C(R4)2—Si(X)3-x(R5)x]y]z
wherein:
Rf is a polyfluoropolyether moiety;
Q1 is a trivalent linking group;
each Q2 is an independently selected organic divalent or trivalent linking group;
each R4 is independently hydrogen or a C1-4 alkyl group;
each X is independently a hydrolysable or hydroxyl group;
R5 R is a C1-8 alkyl or phenyl group;
v and w are independently 0 or 1, x is 0 or 1 or 2; y is 1 or 2; and z is 2, 3, or 4. 5. A method as claimed in claim 4, wherein the polyfluoropolyether moiety Rf comprises perfluorinated repeating units selected from the group consisting of —(CnF2nO)—, —(CF(Z)O)—, —(CF(Z)CnF2nO)—, —(CnF2nSF(Z)O)—, —(CF2CF(Z)O)—, and combinations thereof; wherein n is an integer from 1 to 6 and Z is a perfluoroalkyl group, an oxygen-containing perfluoroalkyl group, a perfluoroalkoxy group, or an oxygen-substituted perfluoroalkoxy group, each of which can be linear, branched, or cyclic, and have 1 to 5 carbon atoms and up to 4 oxygen atoms when oxygen-containing or oxygen-substituted and wherein for repeating units including Z the number of carbon atoms in sequence is at most 6. 6. A method of making a component for a medicinal delivery device, the method comprising
a) providing a component of a medicinal delivery device, b) providing a coating composition comprising an at least partially fluorinated compound, d) cleaning at least a portion of the surface of the component using a solvent comprising a hydrofluoroether of formula
CgF2g+1OChH2h+1
wherein g is 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 and h is 1, 2, 3 or 4
e) applying the coating composition to the portion of the surface of the component after cleaning with the solvent. 7. A method as claimed in claim 6, wherein the hydrofluoroether is selected from the group consisting of methyl heptafluoropropylether; ethyl heptafluoropropylether ; methyl nonafluorobutylether; ethyl nonafluorobutylether and mixtures thereof. 8. A method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said surface is a metal surface, in particular a surface of an aluminium alloy, an iron alloy, or a steel alloy. 9. A method as claimed in claim 1, where said medicinal delivery device is a metered dose inhaler or a dry powder inhaler. 10. A method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the component is a component of a metered dose inhaler and the component is selected from the group consisting of an actuator, an aerosol container, a ferrule, a valve body, a valve stem and a compression spring. 11. A medicinal delivery device assembled from at least one component made as claimed in claim 1. 12. A method as referred in claim 5, wherein the number of linked perfluorinated repeating units is in the range 20 to 40. 13. A method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said portion of surface is a polymer surface. 14. A method as claimed in claim 13 wherein the component is at least partly made of said polymer. 15. A method as claimed in claim 13, wherein the silane having two or more reactive silane groups is of formula
X3-m(R1)mSi-Q-Si(R2)kX3-k
wherein R1 and R2 are independently selected univalent groups, X is a hydrolysable or hydroxy group, m and k are independently 0, 1, or 2 and Q is a divalent organic linking group, comprising a substituted C2 to C12 hydrocarbyl chain and one or more amine groups. 16. A method as claimed in 13, wherein the at least partially fluorinated compound is polyfluoropolyether silane of the Formula Ia:
Rf[Q1-[C(R)2—Si(Y)3-x(R1a)x]y]z Ia
wherein:
Rf is a monovalent or multivalent polyfluoropolyether moiety;
Q1 is an organic divalent or trivalent linking group;
each R is independently hydrogen or a C1-4 alkyl group;
each Y is independently a hydrolysable group;
R1a is a C1-8 alkyl or phenyl group;
x is 0 or 1 or 2;
y is 1 or 2; and
z is 1, 2, 3, or 4. 17. A method as claimed in claim 16, wherein the polyfluoropolyether moiety Rf is C3F7O(CF(CF3)CF2O)pCF(CF3)—, wherein the average value of p is in the range 3 to 50. 18. A method as claimed in claim 16, wherein z=1. 19. A method as claimed in claim 16, wherein y=1. 20. A method as claimed in claim 16, wherein Q1 contains one or more functional groups selected from the group consisting of esters, amides, sulfonamides, carbonyl, carbonates, ureylenes, and carbamates. 21. A method as claimed in claim 20 wherein Q1 comprises from 2 to 25 linearly arranged carbon atoms, optionally interrupted by one or more heteroatoms. 22. A method as claimed in claim 13, wherein the polymer is a thermoplastic. 23. A method as claimed in claim 22, wherein the thermoplastic material is selected from the group consisting of polyolefines, a polyesters, polyoxymethylene, nylons, and copolymers comprising acrylonitrile, butadiene and styrene. 24. A coated component for a medicinal delivery device comprising a component and a fluorine-containing coating, wherein the fluorine-containing coating comprises two layers, a first polyfluoropolyether-containing layer comprising polyfluoropolyether silane entities of the following Formula Ib:
Rf[Q1-[C(R)2—Si(O—)3-x(R1a)x]y]z Ib
which shares at least one covalent bond with a second non-fluorinated layer comprising entities of the following Formula
(—O)3-m-n(X)n(R1)mSi-Q-Si(R2)k(X)l(O—)3-k-l IIb
which in turn shares at least one covalent bond with the component; and wherein:
Rf is a monovalent or multivalent polyfluoropolyether segment;
Q1 is an organic divalent or trivalent linking group;
each R is independently hydrogen or a C1-4 alkyl group;
RIa is a C1-8 alkyl or phenyl group;
k, 1, m and n are independently 0, 1 or 2, but with the priviso that m+n and k+1 are at most 2;
x is 0 or 1 or 2;
y is 1 or 2; and
z is 1, 2, 3, or 4;
R1 and R2 are independently selected univalent groups, X is a hydrolysable or hydroxy group, m and k are independently 0, 1, or 2 and Q is a divalent organic linking group, comprising a substituted C2 to C12 hydrocarbyl chain and one or more amine groups. 25. A coated component for a medicinal delivery device as claimed in claim 24, wherein z=1. 26. A coated component for a medicinal delivery device as claimed in claim 24, wherein y=1. 27. A coated component for a medicinal delivery device as claimed in claim 26, wherein the entity of Formula IIb shares a covalent bond with a polymer surface of the component. 28. A coated component for a medicinal delivery device as claimed in claim 26, wherein Q1 includes one or more organic linking groups selected from —C(O)N(R)—(CH2)k—, —S(O)2N(R)—(CH2)k—, —(CH2)k—, —CH2O—(CH2)k—, —C(O)S—(CH2)k—, —CH2OC(O)N(R)—(CH2)k—, wherein R is hydrogen or C1-4 alkyl, and k is 2 to about 25, preferably k is 2 to about 15, more preferably k is 2 to about 10. 29. A coated component for a medicinal delivery device as claimed in claim 24, wherein y=2. 30. A coated component for a medicinal delivery device as claimed in claim 29, wherein the entity of Formula IIb shares a covalent bond with a metal surface of the component, in particular a surface of an aluminium alloy, an iron alloy, or a steel alloy. 31. A coated component for a medicinal delivery device as claimed in claim 29, wherein Q1 includes as organic linking group
—CH2OCH2CH(OC(O)NH(CH2)3—)CH2OC(O)NH(CH2)3—
or
—C(O)NHCH2CH[OC(O)NH—]CH2OC(O)NH—. 32. A coated component for a medicinal delivery device as claimed in claim 24, wherein the component is a component of a metered dose inhaler. 33. A coated component as claimed in claim 32, wherein the component is selected from the group consisting of an actuator, an aerosol container, a ferrule, a valve body, a valve stem and a compression spring. 34. A medicinal delivery device assembled from at least one coated component as claimed in claim 24. | 1,700 |
4,046 | 15,007,827 | 1,795 | A potentiometric sensor having:
a measuring half cell with a conductor element; a reference half cell with a reference element; a measuring circuit that is connected with the conductor element of the measuring half cell and the reference element of the reference half cell, is designed to create a measuring signal that is dependent on a potential difference between the conductor element and the reference element. The measuring half cell further includes: a housing, in which a housing chamber is formed, which is closed off by a first ion-selective membrane and contacted by the conductor element a first inner electrolyte contained within the housing chamber, contacting the ion-selective membrane, wherein the conductor element includes an inner conductor, especially an inner conductor comprising a metallic conductor, that is connected with the measuring circuit and a gas-tight barrier separating the inner conductor from the first inner electrolyte. | 1. Potentiometric sensor comprising:
a measuring half cell with a conductor element; a reference half cell with a reference element; a measuring circuit that is connected with the conductor element of the measuring half cell and the reference element of the reference half cell, and that is designed to create a measuring signal that is dependent on a potential difference between the conductor element and the reference element, wherein the measuring half cell comprises: a housing, in which a housing chamber is formed, which is closed by a first ion-selective membrane, a first inner electrolyte contained within the housing chamber, contacting the ion-selective membrane, and being contacted by the conductor element, characterized in that the conductor element comprises an inner conductor, especially an inner conductor comprising a metallic conductor, that is connected with the measuring circuit and that the conductor element further comprises a gas-tight barrier that separates the inner conductor from the first inner electrolyte. 2. Potentiometric sensor according to claim 1, wherein the barrier is not permeable for interfering substances that are suitable for entering into chemical reactions with the material of the inner conductor, particularly gases and/or interfering ions. 3. Potentiometric sensor according to claim 2, wherein the barrier is chemically inert towards the interfering substances. 4. Potentiometric sensor according to claim 1, wherein the conductor element is configured as a membrane electrode comprising: a second housing chamber that is arranged within the housing chamber and closed by a second ion-selective membrane; and
a second inner electrolyte contained within the second housing chamber and contacting the second ion-selective membrane, wherein the inner conductor is in contact with the second inner electrolyte. 5. Potentiometric sensor according to claim 4, wherein the second ion-selective membrane is a pH sensitive glass membrane. 6. Potentiometric sensor according to claim 4, wherein the first inner electrolyte and the second inner electrolyte contain a buffer system. 7. Potentiometric sensor according to claim 4, wherein both the first and the second inner electrolytes contain an identical buffer system and have the same pH value. 8. Potentiometric sensor according to claim 4, wherein the first inner electrolyte and the second inner electrolyte are of the same composition. 9. Potentiometric sensor according to claim 1, wherein the conductor element comprises an electroconductive inner conductor and a coating that serves as a barrier shielding the electroconductive inner conductor from the inner electrolyte. 10. Potentiometric sensor according to claim 9, wherein the conductor element may be designed as an enamel electrode and the coating is formed from enamel. 11. Potentiometric sensor according to claim 9, wherein the coating that serves as a barrier comprises at least one layer of an ion conductive polymer or an ion conductive ceramic. 12. Potentiometric sensor according to claim 9, wherein the coating that serves as a barrier comprises at least one glass layer. 13. Potentiometric sensor according to claim 1, wherein the conductor element comprises an ion-selective field effect transistor (ISFET). 14. Potentiometric sensor according to claim 1, wherein the reference half cell has a further housing chamber and a reference electrolyte that is contained in the further housing chamber that is in contact with the measuring fluid that surrounds the housing chamber via a junction that is arranged in a wall of the housing chamber, wherein the reference element connected with the measuring circuit is connected with the measuring circuit. 15. Potentiometric sensor according to claim 1, wherein the reference element as well as the inner conductor comprise a silver wire that is, at least in sections, chloride-coated. 16. Potentiometric sensor according to claim 1, wherein the first ion-selective membrane is an ion-selective liquid membrane or a polymer membrane. | A potentiometric sensor having:
a measuring half cell with a conductor element; a reference half cell with a reference element; a measuring circuit that is connected with the conductor element of the measuring half cell and the reference element of the reference half cell, is designed to create a measuring signal that is dependent on a potential difference between the conductor element and the reference element. The measuring half cell further includes: a housing, in which a housing chamber is formed, which is closed off by a first ion-selective membrane and contacted by the conductor element a first inner electrolyte contained within the housing chamber, contacting the ion-selective membrane, wherein the conductor element includes an inner conductor, especially an inner conductor comprising a metallic conductor, that is connected with the measuring circuit and a gas-tight barrier separating the inner conductor from the first inner electrolyte.1. Potentiometric sensor comprising:
a measuring half cell with a conductor element; a reference half cell with a reference element; a measuring circuit that is connected with the conductor element of the measuring half cell and the reference element of the reference half cell, and that is designed to create a measuring signal that is dependent on a potential difference between the conductor element and the reference element, wherein the measuring half cell comprises: a housing, in which a housing chamber is formed, which is closed by a first ion-selective membrane, a first inner electrolyte contained within the housing chamber, contacting the ion-selective membrane, and being contacted by the conductor element, characterized in that the conductor element comprises an inner conductor, especially an inner conductor comprising a metallic conductor, that is connected with the measuring circuit and that the conductor element further comprises a gas-tight barrier that separates the inner conductor from the first inner electrolyte. 2. Potentiometric sensor according to claim 1, wherein the barrier is not permeable for interfering substances that are suitable for entering into chemical reactions with the material of the inner conductor, particularly gases and/or interfering ions. 3. Potentiometric sensor according to claim 2, wherein the barrier is chemically inert towards the interfering substances. 4. Potentiometric sensor according to claim 1, wherein the conductor element is configured as a membrane electrode comprising: a second housing chamber that is arranged within the housing chamber and closed by a second ion-selective membrane; and
a second inner electrolyte contained within the second housing chamber and contacting the second ion-selective membrane, wherein the inner conductor is in contact with the second inner electrolyte. 5. Potentiometric sensor according to claim 4, wherein the second ion-selective membrane is a pH sensitive glass membrane. 6. Potentiometric sensor according to claim 4, wherein the first inner electrolyte and the second inner electrolyte contain a buffer system. 7. Potentiometric sensor according to claim 4, wherein both the first and the second inner electrolytes contain an identical buffer system and have the same pH value. 8. Potentiometric sensor according to claim 4, wherein the first inner electrolyte and the second inner electrolyte are of the same composition. 9. Potentiometric sensor according to claim 1, wherein the conductor element comprises an electroconductive inner conductor and a coating that serves as a barrier shielding the electroconductive inner conductor from the inner electrolyte. 10. Potentiometric sensor according to claim 9, wherein the conductor element may be designed as an enamel electrode and the coating is formed from enamel. 11. Potentiometric sensor according to claim 9, wherein the coating that serves as a barrier comprises at least one layer of an ion conductive polymer or an ion conductive ceramic. 12. Potentiometric sensor according to claim 9, wherein the coating that serves as a barrier comprises at least one glass layer. 13. Potentiometric sensor according to claim 1, wherein the conductor element comprises an ion-selective field effect transistor (ISFET). 14. Potentiometric sensor according to claim 1, wherein the reference half cell has a further housing chamber and a reference electrolyte that is contained in the further housing chamber that is in contact with the measuring fluid that surrounds the housing chamber via a junction that is arranged in a wall of the housing chamber, wherein the reference element connected with the measuring circuit is connected with the measuring circuit. 15. Potentiometric sensor according to claim 1, wherein the reference element as well as the inner conductor comprise a silver wire that is, at least in sections, chloride-coated. 16. Potentiometric sensor according to claim 1, wherein the first ion-selective membrane is an ion-selective liquid membrane or a polymer membrane. | 1,700 |
4,047 | 13,879,997 | 1,789 | The present invention relates to bicomponent polymer fibers, and to processes for forming those fibers. Bicomponent polymer fibers are described, having a core comprising a core polymer and a sheath comprising a sheath polymer, wherein the sheath polymer is a polyolefin having an Mw less than about 65,000 g/mol. The core polymer has an Mw at least about 20,000 g/mol greater than the Mw of the sheath polymer. Processes for forming bicomponent fibers are also described, comprising (i) forming a molten blend of a core polymer and a sheath polymer; (ii) extruding the molten polymer blend using an extrusion die having a length to diameter ratio greater than or equal to about 10 and under shear conditions sufficient to drive the sheath polymer to the die wall; and (iii) forming meltblown fibers having a core comprising the core polymer and a sheath comprising the sheath polymer. | 1. A bicomponent polymer fiber having a core comprising a core polymer and a sheath comprising a sheath polymer, wherein the sheath polymer is a polyolefin having a weight average molecular weight (Mw) less than about 65,000 g/mole and wherein the Mw of the core polymer is at least about 20,000 g/mole greater than the Mw of the sheath polymer. 2. The polymer fiber of claim 1, wherein the core polymer is selected from a propylene-based polymer, an ethylene-based polymer, a propylene-ethylene block copolymer, a styrenic block copolymer, an acrylate, or a combination of the foregoing. 3. The polymer fiber of claim 1, wherein the core polymer is a propylene-based polymer comprising from about 5 to about 30 wt % ethylene and/or a C4-C12 alpha olefin and having a triad tacticity greater than about 90% and a heat of fusion less than about 75 J/g. 4. The polymer fiber of claim 1, wherein the propylene-based polymer comprises from about 8 to about 20 wt % ethylene. 5. The polymer fiber of claim 1, wherein the propylene-based polymer comprises from about 12 to about 18 wt % ethylene. 6. The polymer fiber of claim 1, wherein the Mw of the core polymer is at least about 75,000 g/mole greater than the Mw of the sheath polymer. 7. The polymer fiber of claim 1, wherein the Mw of the core polymer is at least about 100,000 g/mole greater than the Mw of the sheath polymer. 8. The polymer fiber of claim 1, wherein the Mw of the sheath polymer is less than about 50,000 g/mole and the Mw of the core polymer is greater than about 100,000 g/mole. 9. The polymer fiber of claim 1, wherein the sheath polymer is selected from a polypropylene wax, a polyethylene wax, and combinations thereof. 10. The polymer fiber of claim 1, wherein the sheath polymer comprises a backbone of propylene or ethylene with maleic anhydride grafted to the backbone. 11. The polymer fiber of claim 1, wherein the sheath polymer is a polyethylene or polypropylene wax comprising at least one functionalized end group providing a polar character to the polymer. 12. A nonwoven fabric comprising polymer fibers according to claim 1. 13. A process for forming bicomponent polymer fibers comprising:
a. forming a molten blend of a core polymer and a sheath polymer; b. extruding the molten polymer blend using an extruder having a die with a length to diameter ratio greater than or equal to about 10 and under shear conditions sufficient to drive the sheath polymer to the die wall; and c. forming meltblown fibers having a core comprising the core polymer and a sheath comprising the sheath polymer;
wherein the sheath polymer is a polyolefin having a weight average molecular weight (Mw) less than about 65,000 g/mole and wherein the Mw of the core polymer is at least about 20,000 g/mole greater than the Mw of the sheath polymer. 14. The process of claim 13, wherein the core polymer is selected from a propylene-based polymer, an ethylene-based polymer, a propylene-ethylene block copolymer, a styrenic block copolymer, an acrylate, or a combination of the foregoing. 15. The process of claim 13, wherein the core polymer is a propylene-based polymer comprising from about 5 to about 30 wt % ethylene and/or a C4-C12 alpha olefin and having a triad tacticity greater than about 90% and a heat of fusion less than about 75 J/g. 16. The process of claim 13, wherein the propylene based polymer comprises from about 8 to about 20 wt % ethylene. 17. The process of claim 13, wherein the Mw of the core polymer is at least about 75,000 g/mole greater than the Mw of the sheath polymer. 18. The process of claim 13, wherein the Mw of the core polymer is at least about 100,000 g/mole greater than the Mw of the sheath polymer. 19. The process of claim 13, wherein the Mw of the sheath polymer is less than about 50,000 g/mole and the Mw of the core polymer is greater than about 100,000 g/mole. 20. The process of claim 13, wherein the sheath polymer is selected from a polypropylene wax, a polyethylene wax, and combinations thereof. 21. The process of claim 13, wherein the sheath polymer comprises a backbone of propylene or ethylene with maleic anhydride grafted to the backbone. 22. The process of claim 13, wherein the sheath polymer is a polyethylene or polypropylene wax comprising at least one functionalized end group providing a polar character to the polymer. 23. A nonwoven fabric comprising polymer fibers made according to claim 13. 24. An article comprising a nonwoven fabric according to claim 23. 25. The fiber according claim 1, further comprising at least one of carbon black, clay, talc, calcium carbonate, mica, silica, silicate, hindered phenol, hindered amine, phosphate, sodium benzoate, oleamide, erucamide, calcium stearate, hydrotalcite, and calcium oxide. | The present invention relates to bicomponent polymer fibers, and to processes for forming those fibers. Bicomponent polymer fibers are described, having a core comprising a core polymer and a sheath comprising a sheath polymer, wherein the sheath polymer is a polyolefin having an Mw less than about 65,000 g/mol. The core polymer has an Mw at least about 20,000 g/mol greater than the Mw of the sheath polymer. Processes for forming bicomponent fibers are also described, comprising (i) forming a molten blend of a core polymer and a sheath polymer; (ii) extruding the molten polymer blend using an extrusion die having a length to diameter ratio greater than or equal to about 10 and under shear conditions sufficient to drive the sheath polymer to the die wall; and (iii) forming meltblown fibers having a core comprising the core polymer and a sheath comprising the sheath polymer.1. A bicomponent polymer fiber having a core comprising a core polymer and a sheath comprising a sheath polymer, wherein the sheath polymer is a polyolefin having a weight average molecular weight (Mw) less than about 65,000 g/mole and wherein the Mw of the core polymer is at least about 20,000 g/mole greater than the Mw of the sheath polymer. 2. The polymer fiber of claim 1, wherein the core polymer is selected from a propylene-based polymer, an ethylene-based polymer, a propylene-ethylene block copolymer, a styrenic block copolymer, an acrylate, or a combination of the foregoing. 3. The polymer fiber of claim 1, wherein the core polymer is a propylene-based polymer comprising from about 5 to about 30 wt % ethylene and/or a C4-C12 alpha olefin and having a triad tacticity greater than about 90% and a heat of fusion less than about 75 J/g. 4. The polymer fiber of claim 1, wherein the propylene-based polymer comprises from about 8 to about 20 wt % ethylene. 5. The polymer fiber of claim 1, wherein the propylene-based polymer comprises from about 12 to about 18 wt % ethylene. 6. The polymer fiber of claim 1, wherein the Mw of the core polymer is at least about 75,000 g/mole greater than the Mw of the sheath polymer. 7. The polymer fiber of claim 1, wherein the Mw of the core polymer is at least about 100,000 g/mole greater than the Mw of the sheath polymer. 8. The polymer fiber of claim 1, wherein the Mw of the sheath polymer is less than about 50,000 g/mole and the Mw of the core polymer is greater than about 100,000 g/mole. 9. The polymer fiber of claim 1, wherein the sheath polymer is selected from a polypropylene wax, a polyethylene wax, and combinations thereof. 10. The polymer fiber of claim 1, wherein the sheath polymer comprises a backbone of propylene or ethylene with maleic anhydride grafted to the backbone. 11. The polymer fiber of claim 1, wherein the sheath polymer is a polyethylene or polypropylene wax comprising at least one functionalized end group providing a polar character to the polymer. 12. A nonwoven fabric comprising polymer fibers according to claim 1. 13. A process for forming bicomponent polymer fibers comprising:
a. forming a molten blend of a core polymer and a sheath polymer; b. extruding the molten polymer blend using an extruder having a die with a length to diameter ratio greater than or equal to about 10 and under shear conditions sufficient to drive the sheath polymer to the die wall; and c. forming meltblown fibers having a core comprising the core polymer and a sheath comprising the sheath polymer;
wherein the sheath polymer is a polyolefin having a weight average molecular weight (Mw) less than about 65,000 g/mole and wherein the Mw of the core polymer is at least about 20,000 g/mole greater than the Mw of the sheath polymer. 14. The process of claim 13, wherein the core polymer is selected from a propylene-based polymer, an ethylene-based polymer, a propylene-ethylene block copolymer, a styrenic block copolymer, an acrylate, or a combination of the foregoing. 15. The process of claim 13, wherein the core polymer is a propylene-based polymer comprising from about 5 to about 30 wt % ethylene and/or a C4-C12 alpha olefin and having a triad tacticity greater than about 90% and a heat of fusion less than about 75 J/g. 16. The process of claim 13, wherein the propylene based polymer comprises from about 8 to about 20 wt % ethylene. 17. The process of claim 13, wherein the Mw of the core polymer is at least about 75,000 g/mole greater than the Mw of the sheath polymer. 18. The process of claim 13, wherein the Mw of the core polymer is at least about 100,000 g/mole greater than the Mw of the sheath polymer. 19. The process of claim 13, wherein the Mw of the sheath polymer is less than about 50,000 g/mole and the Mw of the core polymer is greater than about 100,000 g/mole. 20. The process of claim 13, wherein the sheath polymer is selected from a polypropylene wax, a polyethylene wax, and combinations thereof. 21. The process of claim 13, wherein the sheath polymer comprises a backbone of propylene or ethylene with maleic anhydride grafted to the backbone. 22. The process of claim 13, wherein the sheath polymer is a polyethylene or polypropylene wax comprising at least one functionalized end group providing a polar character to the polymer. 23. A nonwoven fabric comprising polymer fibers made according to claim 13. 24. An article comprising a nonwoven fabric according to claim 23. 25. The fiber according claim 1, further comprising at least one of carbon black, clay, talc, calcium carbonate, mica, silica, silicate, hindered phenol, hindered amine, phosphate, sodium benzoate, oleamide, erucamide, calcium stearate, hydrotalcite, and calcium oxide. | 1,700 |
4,048 | 15,798,543 | 1,712 | A method of producing a bearing ring of a rolling element bearing. External surfaces of the bearing ring are provided with an electrically insulating coating. The method providing the steps of (i) providing a prefinished bearing ring made of bearing steel. The bearing ring has a hardened and machined raceway surface for accommodating at least one row of rolling elements; (ii) providing a first coating on all surfaces of the bearing ring; (iii) removing the first coating from the external surfaces of the bearing ring; and (iv) providing the electrically insulating coating on the external surfaces. | 1. A method of producing a bearing ring of a rolling element bearing, external surfaces of the bearing ring are provided with an electrically insulating coating, the method comprising steps of:
(i) providing a prefinished bearing ring made of bearing steel, wherein the bearing ring has a hardened and machined raceway surface for accommodating at least one row of rolling elements; (ii) providing a first coating on all surfaces of the bearing ring; (iii) removing the first coating from the external surfaces of the bearing ring; and (iv) providing the electrically insulating coating on the external surfaces of the bearing ring. 2. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the step (iii) of removal is a mechanical removal procedure that roughens the external surfaces of the bearing ring to form a prepared substrate for the electrically insulating coating provided in step (iv). 3. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first coating is one of a conversion coating, a physical vapour deposition coating, a chemical vapour deposition coating or a galvanic coating. 4. The method as claimed in claim 3, wherein the first coating is a black oxide surface layer with a thickness of less than 2 μm, formed on the surfaces of the bearing ring by immersion in a bath of alkaline solution at elevated temperature. 5. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first coating is a diamond-like carbon coating. 6. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the electrically insulating coating is an organic coating, such as a polymer coating, or is an inorganic coating, such as a thermal spray coating. 7. The method as claimed in claim 6, wherein the electrically insulating coating is an oxide ceramic coating with a thickness of 2-3000 μm, the oxide ceramic coating comprising one or more materials selected from Al2O3, TiO2 Cr2O3 and ZrO2. 8. The method as claimed in claim 7, further comprising steps of:
(v) providing a layer of organic sealant on top of the oxide ceramic coating; and (vi) machining the external surfaces of the bearing ring to achieve required dimensions. 9. A bearing ring comprising:
a first coating on a raceway surface of the bearing ring, and an electrically insulating coating on external surfaces of the bearing ring. 10. A rolling element bearing comprising a bearing ring as claimed in claim 9. 11. The rolling element bearing as claimed in claim 10, further comprising a second bearing ring, wherein a raceway surface of the second bearing ring is provided with the first coating. 12. The rolling element bearing as claimed in claim 10, further comprising at least one row of rolling elements, wherein an outer surface of the rolling elements is provided with the first coating, or with a second coating different from the first coating. 13. The rolling element bearing as claimed in claim 10, wherein the first coating is a black oxide surface layer with a thickness of less than 2 μm. | A method of producing a bearing ring of a rolling element bearing. External surfaces of the bearing ring are provided with an electrically insulating coating. The method providing the steps of (i) providing a prefinished bearing ring made of bearing steel. The bearing ring has a hardened and machined raceway surface for accommodating at least one row of rolling elements; (ii) providing a first coating on all surfaces of the bearing ring; (iii) removing the first coating from the external surfaces of the bearing ring; and (iv) providing the electrically insulating coating on the external surfaces.1. A method of producing a bearing ring of a rolling element bearing, external surfaces of the bearing ring are provided with an electrically insulating coating, the method comprising steps of:
(i) providing a prefinished bearing ring made of bearing steel, wherein the bearing ring has a hardened and machined raceway surface for accommodating at least one row of rolling elements; (ii) providing a first coating on all surfaces of the bearing ring; (iii) removing the first coating from the external surfaces of the bearing ring; and (iv) providing the electrically insulating coating on the external surfaces of the bearing ring. 2. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the step (iii) of removal is a mechanical removal procedure that roughens the external surfaces of the bearing ring to form a prepared substrate for the electrically insulating coating provided in step (iv). 3. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first coating is one of a conversion coating, a physical vapour deposition coating, a chemical vapour deposition coating or a galvanic coating. 4. The method as claimed in claim 3, wherein the first coating is a black oxide surface layer with a thickness of less than 2 μm, formed on the surfaces of the bearing ring by immersion in a bath of alkaline solution at elevated temperature. 5. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first coating is a diamond-like carbon coating. 6. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the electrically insulating coating is an organic coating, such as a polymer coating, or is an inorganic coating, such as a thermal spray coating. 7. The method as claimed in claim 6, wherein the electrically insulating coating is an oxide ceramic coating with a thickness of 2-3000 μm, the oxide ceramic coating comprising one or more materials selected from Al2O3, TiO2 Cr2O3 and ZrO2. 8. The method as claimed in claim 7, further comprising steps of:
(v) providing a layer of organic sealant on top of the oxide ceramic coating; and (vi) machining the external surfaces of the bearing ring to achieve required dimensions. 9. A bearing ring comprising:
a first coating on a raceway surface of the bearing ring, and an electrically insulating coating on external surfaces of the bearing ring. 10. A rolling element bearing comprising a bearing ring as claimed in claim 9. 11. The rolling element bearing as claimed in claim 10, further comprising a second bearing ring, wherein a raceway surface of the second bearing ring is provided with the first coating. 12. The rolling element bearing as claimed in claim 10, further comprising at least one row of rolling elements, wherein an outer surface of the rolling elements is provided with the first coating, or with a second coating different from the first coating. 13. The rolling element bearing as claimed in claim 10, wherein the first coating is a black oxide surface layer with a thickness of less than 2 μm. | 1,700 |
4,049 | 14,193,052 | 1,734 | A system for capturing CO 2 from a flue gas stream includes a CO 2 absorber having first and second absorption stages. A first contacting means is provided for contacting, in the first stage, the flue gas stream (FG) with a mixture of CO 2 -lean ammoniated solution and recirculated CO 2 -enriched ammoniated solution. A second contacting means is provided for contacting, in the second stage, partly cleaned flue gas stream with the recirculated CO 2 -enriched solution. A device collects the mixture of CO 2 -lean solution and recirculated CO 2 -enriched solution. A pipe passes a first portion of the collected CO 2 -enriched solution for regeneration. A CO 2 -lean solution pipe passes the CO 2 -lean solution from regeneration to the first stage. A recirculation pipe passes a second portion of the collected CO 2 -enriched solution to the second stage. | 1. A method of capturing CO2 from a flue gas stream in a CO2-absorber, the method comprising:
contacting, in a first absorption stage of the CO2-absorber, the flue gas stream with a mixture of CO2-lean ammoniated solution and recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution to form a partly cleaned flue gas stream, contacting, in a second absorption stage of the CO2-absorber, the partly cleaned flue gas stream with the recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution to form a cleaned flue gas stream, forming a collected CO2-enriched ammoniated solution by collecting the mixture of CO2-lean ammoniated solution and recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution after having passed through the first absorption stage, passing a first portion of the collected CO2-enriched ammoniated solution for regeneration for removing CO2 from the first portion of the collected CO2-enriched ammoniated solution to form the CO2-lean ammoniated solution, and utilizing a second portion of the collected CO2-enriched ammoniated solution to form the recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution. 2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising forwarding the recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution first through the second absorption stage, and then through the first absorption stage. 3. The method according to claim 1, further comprising forwarding the CO2-lean ammoniated solution through the first absorption stage without forwarding the CO2-lean ammoniated solution through the second absorption stage. 4. The method according to claim 1, wherein the recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution and the CO2-lean ammoniated solution are kept at a temperature, while passing through the first and second absorption stages, which is above a temperature at which ammonium bicarbonate particles may start to precipitate from the respective ammoniated solution. 5. The method according to claim 1, wherein the partly cleaned flue gas stream is passed vertically upwards from the first absorption stage to the second absorption stage, and wherein the recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution is passed vertically downwards from the second absorption stage to the first absorption stage. 6. The method according to claim 1, the method further comprising contacting, in a third absorption stage of the CO2-absorber, the cleaned flue gas stream coming from the second absorption stage with a polishing portion of the recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution to form a further cleaned flue gas stream, the polishing portion of the recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution being cooled, prior to being supplied to the third absorption stage, to a polishing temperature which is lower than an absorbing temperature of the absorbing portion of the recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution supplied to the second stage. 7. The method according to claim 6, further comprising mixing the polishing portion of the recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution, after having passed through the third absorption stage, with the absorbing portion of the recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution to form the recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution passing through the second absorption stage. 8. The method according to claim 1, wherein the R-value, being the molar concentration of NH3 divided by the molar concentration of CO2, of the recirculated 00 2-enriched ammoniated solution supplied to the second absorption stage is within the range of 1.75 to 2.00. 9. The method according to claim 1, wherein the temperature of the recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution supplied to the second absorption stage is controlled to be within the range of 8-30° C. 10. The method according to claim 1, wherein the R-value of the ammoniated solution is within the range of 1.70 to 2.80 throughout the entire first absorption stage. 11. The method according to claim 1, wherein the R-value of the recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution entering to the second absorption stage is lower than the R-value of the mixture of recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution and the CO2-lean ammoniated solution entering the first absorption stage. 12. The method according to claim 1, wherein the temperature of the mixture of recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution and CO2-lean ammoniated solution entering the first absorption stage is higher than the temperature of the recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution entering the second absorption stage. 13. The method according to claim 1, wherein the liquid to gas ratio, L/G, on a mass basis is 5 to 16 kg solution/kg flue gas in the first absorption stage, and is 3 to 10 kg solution/kg flue gas in the second absorption stage. 14. The method according to claim 1, wherein the first portion of the collected CO2-enriched ammoniated solution comprises 30 to 70% by weight of the collected CO2-enriched ammoniated solution, and wherein the second portion of the collected CO2-enriched ammoniated solution comprises 70 to 30% by weight of the collected CO2-enriched ammoniated solution. 15. The method according to claim 1, wherein 4-30% of the total flow of the CO2-lean ammoniated solution forwarded to the CO2-absorber is forwarded to the second absorption stage for contacting the partly cleaned flue gas stream. 16. A system for capturing CO2 from a flue gas stream comprises:
a CO2 absorber comprising a first absorption stage and a second absorption stage, an inlet for forwarding a flue gas stream (FG) to the first absorption stage, first contacting means for contacting, in the first absorption stage, the flue gas stream (FG) with a mixture of CO2-lean ammoniated solution and recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution to form a partly cleaned flue gas stream, a transfer device for transferring the partly cleaned flue gas stream from the first absorption stage to the second absorption stage, second contacting means for contacting, in the second absorption stage, the partly cleaned flue gas stream with the recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution to form a cleaned flue gas stream, an outlet for cleaned flue gas stream forwarded from the second absorption stage, a device for collecting the mixture of CO2-lean ammoniated solution and recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution after having passed through the first absorption stage to form a collected CO2-enriched ammoniated solution, a CO2-enriched solution pipe for passing a first portion of the collected CO2-enriched ammoniated solution for regeneration for removing CO2 from the first portion of the collected CO2-enriched ammoniated solution to form the CO2-lean ammoniated solution, a CO2-lean solution pipe for passing the CO2-lean ammoniated solution from regeneration to the first absorption stage, and a recirculation pipe for passing a second portion of the collected CO2-enriched ammoniated solution to the second absorption stage to form the recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution. 17. The system according to claim 16, further comprising a heat exchanger arranged on the recirculation pipe for cooling the recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution prior to being supplied to the second absorption stage. 18. The system according to claim 16, wherein the absorber comprises a single tower housing the first and the second contacting means, with the second contacting means being located vertically above the first contacting means inside the tower. 19. The system according to claim 16, wherein the CO2 absorber further comprises a third absorption stage comprising contacting means for contacting a cleaned flue gas stream coming from the second absorption stage with a polishing portion of the recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution to form a further cleaned flue gas stream, a cooler being arranged for cooling the polishing portion of the recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution to a polishing temperature which is lower than an absorbing temperature of the absorbing portion of the recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution supplied to the second stage. | A system for capturing CO 2 from a flue gas stream includes a CO 2 absorber having first and second absorption stages. A first contacting means is provided for contacting, in the first stage, the flue gas stream (FG) with a mixture of CO 2 -lean ammoniated solution and recirculated CO 2 -enriched ammoniated solution. A second contacting means is provided for contacting, in the second stage, partly cleaned flue gas stream with the recirculated CO 2 -enriched solution. A device collects the mixture of CO 2 -lean solution and recirculated CO 2 -enriched solution. A pipe passes a first portion of the collected CO 2 -enriched solution for regeneration. A CO 2 -lean solution pipe passes the CO 2 -lean solution from regeneration to the first stage. A recirculation pipe passes a second portion of the collected CO 2 -enriched solution to the second stage.1. A method of capturing CO2 from a flue gas stream in a CO2-absorber, the method comprising:
contacting, in a first absorption stage of the CO2-absorber, the flue gas stream with a mixture of CO2-lean ammoniated solution and recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution to form a partly cleaned flue gas stream, contacting, in a second absorption stage of the CO2-absorber, the partly cleaned flue gas stream with the recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution to form a cleaned flue gas stream, forming a collected CO2-enriched ammoniated solution by collecting the mixture of CO2-lean ammoniated solution and recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution after having passed through the first absorption stage, passing a first portion of the collected CO2-enriched ammoniated solution for regeneration for removing CO2 from the first portion of the collected CO2-enriched ammoniated solution to form the CO2-lean ammoniated solution, and utilizing a second portion of the collected CO2-enriched ammoniated solution to form the recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution. 2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising forwarding the recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution first through the second absorption stage, and then through the first absorption stage. 3. The method according to claim 1, further comprising forwarding the CO2-lean ammoniated solution through the first absorption stage without forwarding the CO2-lean ammoniated solution through the second absorption stage. 4. The method according to claim 1, wherein the recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution and the CO2-lean ammoniated solution are kept at a temperature, while passing through the first and second absorption stages, which is above a temperature at which ammonium bicarbonate particles may start to precipitate from the respective ammoniated solution. 5. The method according to claim 1, wherein the partly cleaned flue gas stream is passed vertically upwards from the first absorption stage to the second absorption stage, and wherein the recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution is passed vertically downwards from the second absorption stage to the first absorption stage. 6. The method according to claim 1, the method further comprising contacting, in a third absorption stage of the CO2-absorber, the cleaned flue gas stream coming from the second absorption stage with a polishing portion of the recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution to form a further cleaned flue gas stream, the polishing portion of the recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution being cooled, prior to being supplied to the third absorption stage, to a polishing temperature which is lower than an absorbing temperature of the absorbing portion of the recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution supplied to the second stage. 7. The method according to claim 6, further comprising mixing the polishing portion of the recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution, after having passed through the third absorption stage, with the absorbing portion of the recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution to form the recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution passing through the second absorption stage. 8. The method according to claim 1, wherein the R-value, being the molar concentration of NH3 divided by the molar concentration of CO2, of the recirculated 00 2-enriched ammoniated solution supplied to the second absorption stage is within the range of 1.75 to 2.00. 9. The method according to claim 1, wherein the temperature of the recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution supplied to the second absorption stage is controlled to be within the range of 8-30° C. 10. The method according to claim 1, wherein the R-value of the ammoniated solution is within the range of 1.70 to 2.80 throughout the entire first absorption stage. 11. The method according to claim 1, wherein the R-value of the recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution entering to the second absorption stage is lower than the R-value of the mixture of recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution and the CO2-lean ammoniated solution entering the first absorption stage. 12. The method according to claim 1, wherein the temperature of the mixture of recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution and CO2-lean ammoniated solution entering the first absorption stage is higher than the temperature of the recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution entering the second absorption stage. 13. The method according to claim 1, wherein the liquid to gas ratio, L/G, on a mass basis is 5 to 16 kg solution/kg flue gas in the first absorption stage, and is 3 to 10 kg solution/kg flue gas in the second absorption stage. 14. The method according to claim 1, wherein the first portion of the collected CO2-enriched ammoniated solution comprises 30 to 70% by weight of the collected CO2-enriched ammoniated solution, and wherein the second portion of the collected CO2-enriched ammoniated solution comprises 70 to 30% by weight of the collected CO2-enriched ammoniated solution. 15. The method according to claim 1, wherein 4-30% of the total flow of the CO2-lean ammoniated solution forwarded to the CO2-absorber is forwarded to the second absorption stage for contacting the partly cleaned flue gas stream. 16. A system for capturing CO2 from a flue gas stream comprises:
a CO2 absorber comprising a first absorption stage and a second absorption stage, an inlet for forwarding a flue gas stream (FG) to the first absorption stage, first contacting means for contacting, in the first absorption stage, the flue gas stream (FG) with a mixture of CO2-lean ammoniated solution and recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution to form a partly cleaned flue gas stream, a transfer device for transferring the partly cleaned flue gas stream from the first absorption stage to the second absorption stage, second contacting means for contacting, in the second absorption stage, the partly cleaned flue gas stream with the recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution to form a cleaned flue gas stream, an outlet for cleaned flue gas stream forwarded from the second absorption stage, a device for collecting the mixture of CO2-lean ammoniated solution and recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution after having passed through the first absorption stage to form a collected CO2-enriched ammoniated solution, a CO2-enriched solution pipe for passing a first portion of the collected CO2-enriched ammoniated solution for regeneration for removing CO2 from the first portion of the collected CO2-enriched ammoniated solution to form the CO2-lean ammoniated solution, a CO2-lean solution pipe for passing the CO2-lean ammoniated solution from regeneration to the first absorption stage, and a recirculation pipe for passing a second portion of the collected CO2-enriched ammoniated solution to the second absorption stage to form the recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution. 17. The system according to claim 16, further comprising a heat exchanger arranged on the recirculation pipe for cooling the recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution prior to being supplied to the second absorption stage. 18. The system according to claim 16, wherein the absorber comprises a single tower housing the first and the second contacting means, with the second contacting means being located vertically above the first contacting means inside the tower. 19. The system according to claim 16, wherein the CO2 absorber further comprises a third absorption stage comprising contacting means for contacting a cleaned flue gas stream coming from the second absorption stage with a polishing portion of the recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution to form a further cleaned flue gas stream, a cooler being arranged for cooling the polishing portion of the recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution to a polishing temperature which is lower than an absorbing temperature of the absorbing portion of the recirculated CO2-enriched ammoniated solution supplied to the second stage. | 1,700 |
4,050 | 14,758,031 | 1,793 | The present invention relates to a foaming aid and the processes of preparing the same from a coffee extract. The present invention further relates to the use of the foaming aid in the preparation of a beverage including a coffee product such as a as a soluble coffee product. In particular the present invention relates a coffee product, such as a soluble coffee product, that generates stable espresso-type foam or crema upon reconstitution. | 1. A process of making a foaming aid comprising the steps of
(i) providing a coffee extract; and (ii) isolating a surface active fraction of the extract to obtain a foaming aid. 2. The process of claim 1, wherein the surface active fraction comprises at least one compound independently selected from the group consisting of polyphenols and nitrogenous compounds. 3. The process according to claim 1, wherein the surface active fraction is a composition comprising polyphenolic compounds obtainable by Maillard and autoxidative polymerization of at least two 4-vinylcatechol monomers obtained from free caffeic acid or the caffeic acid moiety of a chlorogenic acid. 4. The process according to claim 1, wherein the surface active fraction is a composition comprising at least one multiply hydroxylated phenylidance selected from the group consisting of trans-5,6-Dihydroxy-1-methyl-3-(3′-4′-dihydroxyphenyl) indane, cis-5,6-Dihydroxy-1-methyl-3-(3′-4′-dihydroxyphenyl)indane, 1,3-bis(3′-4′-dihydroxyphenyl)butane, trans-1,3-bis(3′-4′-dihydroxyphenyl)butene, 5,6-Dihydroxy-2-carboxy-1-methyl-3-(3′-4′-dihydroxyphenyl) indane, trans-4,5-dihydroxy-1-methyl-3-(3′,4′-dihydroxyphenyl) indane, cis-4,5-dihydroxy-1-methyl-3-(3′,4′-dihydroxyphenyl) indane, trans-5,6-dihydroxy-1-methyl-3-[3′,4′-dihydroxy-5′-(1-(3″,4″-dihydroxyphenyl)-1-ethyl)phenyl]indane, cis-5,6-dihydroxy-1-methyl-3-[3′,4′-dihydroxy-5′-(1-(3″,4″-dihydroxyphenyl)-1-ethyl)phenyl]indane, and 5,6-dihydroxy-1-methyl-2-[1-(3′,4′-dihydroxyphenyl)-1-ethyl]-3-(3″,4″-dihydroxyphenyl) indane. 5. The process according to claim 1, wherein the surface active fraction is a composition comprising trans-5,6-Dihydroxy-1-methyl-3-(3′-4′-dihydroxyphenyl) indane, cis-5,6-Dihydroxy-1-methyl-3-(3′-4′-dihydroxyphenyl) indane, and trans-1,3-bis(3′-4′-dihydroxyphenyl)butene. 6. The process according to claim 1, wherein the surface active fraction is a composition comprising trans-5,6-Dihydroxy-1-methyl-3-(3′-4′-dihydroxyphenyl) indane and cis-5,6-Dihydroxy-1-methyl-3-(3′-4′-dihydroxyphenyl) indane. 7. The process according to claim 1 further comprising the step of treating the surface active fraction with an alkali. 8. A foaming aid obtainable from the process according to claim 1. 9. A method comprising:
providing a foaming aid formed through the steps of (i) providing a coffee extract; and (ii) isolating a surface active fraction of the extract to obtain the foaming aid; and using the foaming aid in a beverage. 10. The method according to claim 9, wherein the surface active fraction is used as a foaming aid in a coffee product. 11. A process of making a coffee product comprising the steps of:
(a) providing a coffee extract; and (b) adding a foaming aid formed through process comprising the steps of providing a coffee extract; and isolating a surface active fraction of the extract to obtain a foaming aid to coffee extract provided in step (a). 12. The process of making a coffee product of claim 11, wherein a surface active fraction has been removed from the coffee extract provided in step (a). 13. The process of making a coffee product according to claim 11, wherein the process further comprise at least concentrating the coffee extract and wherein the surface active fraction has been removed from the coffee extract provided in step (a) prior to the at least one step of concentrating the coffee extract. 14. The process of making a coffee product according to claim 11, wherein the coffee products is a coffee product selected from the group consisting of instant coffee, instant espresso coffee, liquid coffee concentrate, coffee mixes, coffee mixtures, roast and ground coffee with or without capsules, mixes of roast and ground and instant coffee, and ready-to-drink coffee beverages. 15. A coffee product obtained by the process according to claim 11. | The present invention relates to a foaming aid and the processes of preparing the same from a coffee extract. The present invention further relates to the use of the foaming aid in the preparation of a beverage including a coffee product such as a as a soluble coffee product. In particular the present invention relates a coffee product, such as a soluble coffee product, that generates stable espresso-type foam or crema upon reconstitution.1. A process of making a foaming aid comprising the steps of
(i) providing a coffee extract; and (ii) isolating a surface active fraction of the extract to obtain a foaming aid. 2. The process of claim 1, wherein the surface active fraction comprises at least one compound independently selected from the group consisting of polyphenols and nitrogenous compounds. 3. The process according to claim 1, wherein the surface active fraction is a composition comprising polyphenolic compounds obtainable by Maillard and autoxidative polymerization of at least two 4-vinylcatechol monomers obtained from free caffeic acid or the caffeic acid moiety of a chlorogenic acid. 4. The process according to claim 1, wherein the surface active fraction is a composition comprising at least one multiply hydroxylated phenylidance selected from the group consisting of trans-5,6-Dihydroxy-1-methyl-3-(3′-4′-dihydroxyphenyl) indane, cis-5,6-Dihydroxy-1-methyl-3-(3′-4′-dihydroxyphenyl)indane, 1,3-bis(3′-4′-dihydroxyphenyl)butane, trans-1,3-bis(3′-4′-dihydroxyphenyl)butene, 5,6-Dihydroxy-2-carboxy-1-methyl-3-(3′-4′-dihydroxyphenyl) indane, trans-4,5-dihydroxy-1-methyl-3-(3′,4′-dihydroxyphenyl) indane, cis-4,5-dihydroxy-1-methyl-3-(3′,4′-dihydroxyphenyl) indane, trans-5,6-dihydroxy-1-methyl-3-[3′,4′-dihydroxy-5′-(1-(3″,4″-dihydroxyphenyl)-1-ethyl)phenyl]indane, cis-5,6-dihydroxy-1-methyl-3-[3′,4′-dihydroxy-5′-(1-(3″,4″-dihydroxyphenyl)-1-ethyl)phenyl]indane, and 5,6-dihydroxy-1-methyl-2-[1-(3′,4′-dihydroxyphenyl)-1-ethyl]-3-(3″,4″-dihydroxyphenyl) indane. 5. The process according to claim 1, wherein the surface active fraction is a composition comprising trans-5,6-Dihydroxy-1-methyl-3-(3′-4′-dihydroxyphenyl) indane, cis-5,6-Dihydroxy-1-methyl-3-(3′-4′-dihydroxyphenyl) indane, and trans-1,3-bis(3′-4′-dihydroxyphenyl)butene. 6. The process according to claim 1, wherein the surface active fraction is a composition comprising trans-5,6-Dihydroxy-1-methyl-3-(3′-4′-dihydroxyphenyl) indane and cis-5,6-Dihydroxy-1-methyl-3-(3′-4′-dihydroxyphenyl) indane. 7. The process according to claim 1 further comprising the step of treating the surface active fraction with an alkali. 8. A foaming aid obtainable from the process according to claim 1. 9. A method comprising:
providing a foaming aid formed through the steps of (i) providing a coffee extract; and (ii) isolating a surface active fraction of the extract to obtain the foaming aid; and using the foaming aid in a beverage. 10. The method according to claim 9, wherein the surface active fraction is used as a foaming aid in a coffee product. 11. A process of making a coffee product comprising the steps of:
(a) providing a coffee extract; and (b) adding a foaming aid formed through process comprising the steps of providing a coffee extract; and isolating a surface active fraction of the extract to obtain a foaming aid to coffee extract provided in step (a). 12. The process of making a coffee product of claim 11, wherein a surface active fraction has been removed from the coffee extract provided in step (a). 13. The process of making a coffee product according to claim 11, wherein the process further comprise at least concentrating the coffee extract and wherein the surface active fraction has been removed from the coffee extract provided in step (a) prior to the at least one step of concentrating the coffee extract. 14. The process of making a coffee product according to claim 11, wherein the coffee products is a coffee product selected from the group consisting of instant coffee, instant espresso coffee, liquid coffee concentrate, coffee mixes, coffee mixtures, roast and ground coffee with or without capsules, mixes of roast and ground and instant coffee, and ready-to-drink coffee beverages. 15. A coffee product obtained by the process according to claim 11. | 1,700 |
4,051 | 14,966,355 | 1,723 | A cylindrical battery housing case has a plurality of cylindrical battery housing chambers each housing one cylindrical battery, and a plurality of elongated resilient members each having a protrusion for holding a cylindrical portion of the cylindrical battery is formed in a cantilevered manner inside notches in a side wall of each of the cylindrical battery housing chambers. | 1. A cylindrical battery housing case comprising a plurality of cylindrical battery housing chambers, each of the cylindrical battery housing chambers being configured to one cylindrical battery, wherein
each of the cylindrical battery housing chambers comprises a side wall having a plurality of notches and a plurality of elongated resilient members provided in a cantilevered manner inside the notches, each of the elongated resilient members comprising a protrusion configured to hold a cylindrical portion of the cylindrical battery. 2. The cylindrical battery housing case according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of cylindrical battery housing chambers comprises a first cylindrical battery housing chamber and a second cylindrical battery housing chamber adjacent to the first cylindrical battery housing chamber,
wherein the plurality of elongated resilient members of the first the cylindrical battery housing chamber comprises a first elongated resilient member and a second elongated resilient member, and wherein the plurality of elongated resilient members of the second cylindrical battery housing chamber comprises a third elongated resilient member arranged at an intermediate position between the first elongated resilient member and the second elongated resilient member in a front view of the cylindrical battery housing case. | A cylindrical battery housing case has a plurality of cylindrical battery housing chambers each housing one cylindrical battery, and a plurality of elongated resilient members each having a protrusion for holding a cylindrical portion of the cylindrical battery is formed in a cantilevered manner inside notches in a side wall of each of the cylindrical battery housing chambers.1. A cylindrical battery housing case comprising a plurality of cylindrical battery housing chambers, each of the cylindrical battery housing chambers being configured to one cylindrical battery, wherein
each of the cylindrical battery housing chambers comprises a side wall having a plurality of notches and a plurality of elongated resilient members provided in a cantilevered manner inside the notches, each of the elongated resilient members comprising a protrusion configured to hold a cylindrical portion of the cylindrical battery. 2. The cylindrical battery housing case according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of cylindrical battery housing chambers comprises a first cylindrical battery housing chamber and a second cylindrical battery housing chamber adjacent to the first cylindrical battery housing chamber,
wherein the plurality of elongated resilient members of the first the cylindrical battery housing chamber comprises a first elongated resilient member and a second elongated resilient member, and wherein the plurality of elongated resilient members of the second cylindrical battery housing chamber comprises a third elongated resilient member arranged at an intermediate position between the first elongated resilient member and the second elongated resilient member in a front view of the cylindrical battery housing case. | 1,700 |
4,052 | 14,368,406 | 1,776 | Method for treating impurities contained in exhaust gases of ships to reduce sulphur oxide and other emissions. In order for the method to purify wash water exiting from an exhaust gas scrubber sufficiently enough to be directly dischargeable to sea, and in order for a purification unit used to be small enough to be easily placed onboard a ship, exhaust gases are scrubbed in the exhaust gas scrubber and wash water containing impurities and exiting from the scrubber is supplied to the purification unit, circulated in an effluent circuit, and filtered through a semipermeable membrane of a filter to obtain purified effluent and a residue containing impurities, when necessary, the pH value of the purified effluent is adjusted to be at least 6.5, after which it is discharged into the sea or recycled to the scrubber while the residue containing impurities is led back to the effluent circuit. | 1-20. (canceled) 21. A method for treating impurities contained in exhaust gases of ships in order to reduce sulphur oxide emissions, the method comprising:
scrubbing with water the exhaust gases in an exhaust gas scrubber in order to reduce sulphur dioxide emissions of the exhaust gases, supplying wash water to be purified, containing impurities and exiting from the exhaust gas scrubber, to a purification unit onboard a ship, the purification unit comprising an effluent circuit including at least one membrane filter, monitoring a pH value of the purified effluent, and if it is less than 6.5, it is adjusted to a value of at least 6.5, after which the purified effluent is discharged into a sea or returned to the exhaust gas scrubber, circulating the wash water to be purified, i.e. the effluent, in the effluent circuit, filtering the effluent through a semipermeable membrane of said membrane filter in order to achieve purified effluent and a residue containing impurities, and removing the purified effluent from said membrane filter and from circulation of the effluent circuit while the residue keeps on circulating in the effluent circuit. 22. A method as claimed in claim 21, further comprising removing at intervals from the effluent circuit at least a vast majority of the residue in the effluent circuit, highly concentrated with impurities. 23. A method as claimed in claim 21, further comprising cleaning the membrane filter at intervals of impurities, said cleaning comprising subjecting the membrane filter to backwashing of the semipermeable membrane of the membrane filter with a fluid free of impurities, in a flow direction opposite to the flow direction of the purified effluent flowing through the membrane filter, whereby the impurities collected in the membrane filter are removed from the membrane filter; and subsequently leading the impurities, together with the fluid, out of the effluent circuit for further treatment. 24. A method as claimed in claim 21, further comprising cooling down and partially feeding back to the exhaust gas scrubber the effluent exiting from the exhaust gas scrubber. 25. A method as claimed in claim 21, further comprising filtering the effluent by a coarse filter prior to leading the effluent to the effluent circuit. 26. A ship comprising an exhaust gas scrubber for scrubbing exhaust gases from the ship's combustion engine and for reducing sulphur dioxide emissions, and a purification unit for purifying wash water to be purified and exiting from the exhaust gas scrubber, wherein the purification unit comprises an effluent circuit comprising a circulation pump and at least one membrane filter comprising a semipermeable membrane, the circulation pump being arranged to circulate the effluent to be purified in the effluent circuit by feeding effluent to an inlet end of said membrane filter such that effluent flowing through the membrane filter through the semipermeable membrane and exits, purified, from an outlet of said membrane filter and from the effluent circuit while a residue containing impurities is led from a discharge end of said membrane filter back to the circulation pump and from the circulation pump again to the inlet end of said membrane filter. 27. A ship as claimed in claim 26, wherein the purification unit comprises a feed pump arranged to pump effluent to be purified to the effluent circuit. 28. A ship as claimed in claim 26, further comprising a cooling apparatus located upstream of the purification unit for cooling down wash water coming from the exhaust gas scrubber, and a line for feeding the cooled wash water back to the exhaust gas scrubber. 29. A ship as claimed in claim 28, wherein the cooling apparatus comprises a heat exchanger arranged to cool down the wash water with raw water prior to leading the wash water back to the exhaust gas scrubber. 30. A ship as claimed in claim 28, further comprising feeding means for feeding a base to the wash water prior to feeding the wash water back to the exhaust gas scrubber. 31. A ship as claimed in claim 30, further comprising measuring means for determining a pH value of the wash water exiting from the exhaust gas scrubber, and control means for controlling the base feeding means. 32. A ship as claimed in claim 26, wherein the purification unit comprises a coarse filter arranged upstream of the effluent circuit. 33. A ship as claimed in claim 26, further comprising measuring means for determining a pH value of the purified effluent exiting from the outlet of the membrane filter, and feed devices for feeding a base to the purified effluent. 34. A ship as claimed in claim 26, further comprising a line for feeding the purified effluent back to the exhaust gas scrubber. 35. A ship as claimed in claim 26, further comprising measuring means for determining turbidity of the purified effluent exiting from the membrane filter. 36. A ship as claimed in claim 26, wherein the effluent circuit comprises at least two membrane filters. 37. A ship as claimed in claim 26, further comprising a backwash system for cleaning the semipermeable membrane of the membrane filter of impurity particles, the backwash system being arranged to feed a fluid free of impurities in a flow direction of the semipermeable membrane of the membrane filter, which is opposite to the flow direction of the purified effluent. 38. A ship as claimed in claim 26, wherein the membrane filter is a ceramic membrane filter. 39. A purification unit for purifying polluted wash water, i.e. effluent, exiting from an exhaust gas scrubber of a ship, the purification unit being a transportable container-like unit comprising a first connecting means for connecting the purification unit to an effluent line coming from the exhaust gas scrubber of the ship, a second connecting means for connecting the purification unit to a water distribution circuit of the ship, and an outlet line for discharging from the purification unit the effluent purified therein, the effluent circuit comprising a circulation pump and at least one membrane filter comprising a semipermeable membrane, the circulation pump being arranged to circulate the effluent to be purified in the effluent circuit by feeding effluent to an inlet end of said membrane filter such that effluent flowing through said membrane filter through the semipermeable membrane and exits, purified, from an outlet of said membrane filter and from the effluent circuit while a residue containing impurities is led from a discharge end of said membrane filter back to the circulation pump and from the circulation pump again to the inlet end of said membrane filter. 40. A purification unit as claimed in claim 39, further comprising a third connecting means for connecting the purification unit to a pressurized air circuit of the ship so as to enable pressurized air to be applied to a clean side of said membrane filter. | Method for treating impurities contained in exhaust gases of ships to reduce sulphur oxide and other emissions. In order for the method to purify wash water exiting from an exhaust gas scrubber sufficiently enough to be directly dischargeable to sea, and in order for a purification unit used to be small enough to be easily placed onboard a ship, exhaust gases are scrubbed in the exhaust gas scrubber and wash water containing impurities and exiting from the scrubber is supplied to the purification unit, circulated in an effluent circuit, and filtered through a semipermeable membrane of a filter to obtain purified effluent and a residue containing impurities, when necessary, the pH value of the purified effluent is adjusted to be at least 6.5, after which it is discharged into the sea or recycled to the scrubber while the residue containing impurities is led back to the effluent circuit.1-20. (canceled) 21. A method for treating impurities contained in exhaust gases of ships in order to reduce sulphur oxide emissions, the method comprising:
scrubbing with water the exhaust gases in an exhaust gas scrubber in order to reduce sulphur dioxide emissions of the exhaust gases, supplying wash water to be purified, containing impurities and exiting from the exhaust gas scrubber, to a purification unit onboard a ship, the purification unit comprising an effluent circuit including at least one membrane filter, monitoring a pH value of the purified effluent, and if it is less than 6.5, it is adjusted to a value of at least 6.5, after which the purified effluent is discharged into a sea or returned to the exhaust gas scrubber, circulating the wash water to be purified, i.e. the effluent, in the effluent circuit, filtering the effluent through a semipermeable membrane of said membrane filter in order to achieve purified effluent and a residue containing impurities, and removing the purified effluent from said membrane filter and from circulation of the effluent circuit while the residue keeps on circulating in the effluent circuit. 22. A method as claimed in claim 21, further comprising removing at intervals from the effluent circuit at least a vast majority of the residue in the effluent circuit, highly concentrated with impurities. 23. A method as claimed in claim 21, further comprising cleaning the membrane filter at intervals of impurities, said cleaning comprising subjecting the membrane filter to backwashing of the semipermeable membrane of the membrane filter with a fluid free of impurities, in a flow direction opposite to the flow direction of the purified effluent flowing through the membrane filter, whereby the impurities collected in the membrane filter are removed from the membrane filter; and subsequently leading the impurities, together with the fluid, out of the effluent circuit for further treatment. 24. A method as claimed in claim 21, further comprising cooling down and partially feeding back to the exhaust gas scrubber the effluent exiting from the exhaust gas scrubber. 25. A method as claimed in claim 21, further comprising filtering the effluent by a coarse filter prior to leading the effluent to the effluent circuit. 26. A ship comprising an exhaust gas scrubber for scrubbing exhaust gases from the ship's combustion engine and for reducing sulphur dioxide emissions, and a purification unit for purifying wash water to be purified and exiting from the exhaust gas scrubber, wherein the purification unit comprises an effluent circuit comprising a circulation pump and at least one membrane filter comprising a semipermeable membrane, the circulation pump being arranged to circulate the effluent to be purified in the effluent circuit by feeding effluent to an inlet end of said membrane filter such that effluent flowing through the membrane filter through the semipermeable membrane and exits, purified, from an outlet of said membrane filter and from the effluent circuit while a residue containing impurities is led from a discharge end of said membrane filter back to the circulation pump and from the circulation pump again to the inlet end of said membrane filter. 27. A ship as claimed in claim 26, wherein the purification unit comprises a feed pump arranged to pump effluent to be purified to the effluent circuit. 28. A ship as claimed in claim 26, further comprising a cooling apparatus located upstream of the purification unit for cooling down wash water coming from the exhaust gas scrubber, and a line for feeding the cooled wash water back to the exhaust gas scrubber. 29. A ship as claimed in claim 28, wherein the cooling apparatus comprises a heat exchanger arranged to cool down the wash water with raw water prior to leading the wash water back to the exhaust gas scrubber. 30. A ship as claimed in claim 28, further comprising feeding means for feeding a base to the wash water prior to feeding the wash water back to the exhaust gas scrubber. 31. A ship as claimed in claim 30, further comprising measuring means for determining a pH value of the wash water exiting from the exhaust gas scrubber, and control means for controlling the base feeding means. 32. A ship as claimed in claim 26, wherein the purification unit comprises a coarse filter arranged upstream of the effluent circuit. 33. A ship as claimed in claim 26, further comprising measuring means for determining a pH value of the purified effluent exiting from the outlet of the membrane filter, and feed devices for feeding a base to the purified effluent. 34. A ship as claimed in claim 26, further comprising a line for feeding the purified effluent back to the exhaust gas scrubber. 35. A ship as claimed in claim 26, further comprising measuring means for determining turbidity of the purified effluent exiting from the membrane filter. 36. A ship as claimed in claim 26, wherein the effluent circuit comprises at least two membrane filters. 37. A ship as claimed in claim 26, further comprising a backwash system for cleaning the semipermeable membrane of the membrane filter of impurity particles, the backwash system being arranged to feed a fluid free of impurities in a flow direction of the semipermeable membrane of the membrane filter, which is opposite to the flow direction of the purified effluent. 38. A ship as claimed in claim 26, wherein the membrane filter is a ceramic membrane filter. 39. A purification unit for purifying polluted wash water, i.e. effluent, exiting from an exhaust gas scrubber of a ship, the purification unit being a transportable container-like unit comprising a first connecting means for connecting the purification unit to an effluent line coming from the exhaust gas scrubber of the ship, a second connecting means for connecting the purification unit to a water distribution circuit of the ship, and an outlet line for discharging from the purification unit the effluent purified therein, the effluent circuit comprising a circulation pump and at least one membrane filter comprising a semipermeable membrane, the circulation pump being arranged to circulate the effluent to be purified in the effluent circuit by feeding effluent to an inlet end of said membrane filter such that effluent flowing through said membrane filter through the semipermeable membrane and exits, purified, from an outlet of said membrane filter and from the effluent circuit while a residue containing impurities is led from a discharge end of said membrane filter back to the circulation pump and from the circulation pump again to the inlet end of said membrane filter. 40. A purification unit as claimed in claim 39, further comprising a third connecting means for connecting the purification unit to a pressurized air circuit of the ship so as to enable pressurized air to be applied to a clean side of said membrane filter. | 1,700 |
4,053 | 13,875,739 | 1,726 | A photovoltaic device is presented. The photovoltaic device includes a layer stack; and an absorber layer is disposed on the layer stack. The absorber layer comprises selenium, wherein an atomic concentration of selenium varies across a thickness of the absorber layer. The photovoltaic device is substantially free of a cadmium sulfide layer. | 1. A photovoltaic device, comprising:
a layer stack; and an absorber layer disposed on the layer stack, wherein the absorber layer comprises selenium, and wherein an atomic concentration of selenium varies across a thickness of the absorber layer, wherein the photovoltaic device is substantially free of a cadmium sulfide layer. 2. The photovoltaic device of claim 1, wherein the absorber layer comprises a first region and a second region, the first region disposed proximate to the layer stack relative to the second region, and
wherein an average atomic concentration of selenium in the first region is greater than an average atomic concentration of selenium in the second region. 3. The photovoltaic device of claim 1, wherein the absorber layer comprises a first region and a second region, the first region disposed proximate to the layer stack relative to the second region, and
wherein an average atomic concentration of selenium in the first region is lower than an average atomic concentration of selenium in the second region. 4. The photovoltaic device of claim 1, wherein the absorber layer comprises a first region and a second region, the first region disposed proximate to the layer stack relative to the second region, and
wherein the first region has a band gap that is lower than a band gap of the second region. 5. The photovoltaic device of claim 1, wherein the absorber layer further comprises cadmium and tellurium. 6. The photovoltaic device of claim 5, wherein the absorber layer further comprises sulfur, oxygen, copper, chlorine, or combinations thereof. 7. The photovoltaic device of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of selenium is present in the absorber layer in the form of a ternary compound, a quaternary compound, or combinations thereof. 8. The photovoltaic device of claim 1, wherein an average atomic concentration of selenium in the absorber layer is in a range from about 0.001 atomic percent to about 40 atomic percent of the absorber layer. 9. The photovoltaic device of claim 1, wherein the absorber layer comprises a plurality of grains separated by grain boundaries, and wherein an average atomic concentration of selenium in the grain boundaries is higher than an average atomic concentration of selenium in the grains. 10. The photovoltaic device of claim 1, wherein the absorber layer comprises a p-n junction. 11. The photovoltaic device of claim 1, wherein the layer stack comprises:
a transparent conductive layer disposed on a support; and a buffer layer disposed between the transparent conductive layer and the absorber layer. 12. The photovoltaic device of claim 10, wherein the layer stack further comprises an interlayer disposed between the buffer layer and the absorber layer. 13. A photovoltaic device, comprising:
a layer stack comprising:
a transparent conductive oxide layer disposed on a support and a buffer layer disposed on the transparent conductive oxide layer, or
a transparent conductive oxide layer disposed on a support, a buffer layer disposed on the transparent conductive oxide layer, and an interlayer disposed on the buffer layer; and
an absorber layer disposed directly in contact with the layer stack, wherein the absorber layer comprises selenium, and wherein an atomic concentration of selenium varies across a thickness of the absorber layer. 14. The photovoltaic device of claim 13, wherein the absorber layer comprises a first region and a second region, the first region disposed proximate to the layer stack relative to the second region, and
wherein an average atomic concentration of selenium in the first region is greater than an average atomic concentration of selenium in the second region. 15. The photovoltaic device of claim 13, wherein the absorber layer comprises a first region and a second region, the first region disposed proximate to the layer stack relative to the second region, and
wherein an average atomic concentration of selenium in the first region is lower than an average atomic concentration of selenium in the second region. 16. The photovoltaic device of claim 13, wherein the absorber layer further comprises cadmium and tellurium. 17. The photovoltaic device of claim 16, wherein the absorber layer further comprises sulfur, oxygen, copper, chlorine, or combinations thereof. 18. A method of making a photovoltaic device, comprising:
providing a absorber layer on a layer stack, wherein the absorber layer comprises selenium, and wherein an atomic concentration of selenium varies across a thickness of the absorber layer, and wherein the photovoltaic device is substantially free of a cadmium sulfide layer. 19. The method of claim 18, wherein the step of providing an absorber layer comprises contacting a semiconductor material with a selenium source. 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the selenium source comprises elemental selenium, cadmium selenide, hydrogen selenide, organo-metallic selenium, or combinations thereof. 21. The method of claim 19, wherein the semiconductor material comprises cadmium and tellurium. 22. The method of claim 19, wherein the selenium source is in the form of a vapor, a layer, or combinations thereof. 23. The method of claim 17, wherein the step of providing an absorber layer comprises:
(a) disposing a selenium source layer on the layer stack; (b) disposing a absorber layer on the selenium source layer; and (c) introducing selenium into at least a portion of the absorber layer. 24. The method of claim 23, wherein the selenium source layer has an average thickness in a range from about 1 nanometer to about 1000 nanometers. 25. The method of claim 17, wherein the step of providing an absorber layer comprises co-depositing a selenium source material and a semiconductor material. 26. The method of claim 25, wherein the selenium source material comprises elemental selenium, cadmium selenide, cadmium telluride selenide, or combinations thereof. 27. The method of claim 25, wherein the semiconductor material comprises cadmium and tellurium. | A photovoltaic device is presented. The photovoltaic device includes a layer stack; and an absorber layer is disposed on the layer stack. The absorber layer comprises selenium, wherein an atomic concentration of selenium varies across a thickness of the absorber layer. The photovoltaic device is substantially free of a cadmium sulfide layer.1. A photovoltaic device, comprising:
a layer stack; and an absorber layer disposed on the layer stack, wherein the absorber layer comprises selenium, and wherein an atomic concentration of selenium varies across a thickness of the absorber layer, wherein the photovoltaic device is substantially free of a cadmium sulfide layer. 2. The photovoltaic device of claim 1, wherein the absorber layer comprises a first region and a second region, the first region disposed proximate to the layer stack relative to the second region, and
wherein an average atomic concentration of selenium in the first region is greater than an average atomic concentration of selenium in the second region. 3. The photovoltaic device of claim 1, wherein the absorber layer comprises a first region and a second region, the first region disposed proximate to the layer stack relative to the second region, and
wherein an average atomic concentration of selenium in the first region is lower than an average atomic concentration of selenium in the second region. 4. The photovoltaic device of claim 1, wherein the absorber layer comprises a first region and a second region, the first region disposed proximate to the layer stack relative to the second region, and
wherein the first region has a band gap that is lower than a band gap of the second region. 5. The photovoltaic device of claim 1, wherein the absorber layer further comprises cadmium and tellurium. 6. The photovoltaic device of claim 5, wherein the absorber layer further comprises sulfur, oxygen, copper, chlorine, or combinations thereof. 7. The photovoltaic device of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of selenium is present in the absorber layer in the form of a ternary compound, a quaternary compound, or combinations thereof. 8. The photovoltaic device of claim 1, wherein an average atomic concentration of selenium in the absorber layer is in a range from about 0.001 atomic percent to about 40 atomic percent of the absorber layer. 9. The photovoltaic device of claim 1, wherein the absorber layer comprises a plurality of grains separated by grain boundaries, and wherein an average atomic concentration of selenium in the grain boundaries is higher than an average atomic concentration of selenium in the grains. 10. The photovoltaic device of claim 1, wherein the absorber layer comprises a p-n junction. 11. The photovoltaic device of claim 1, wherein the layer stack comprises:
a transparent conductive layer disposed on a support; and a buffer layer disposed between the transparent conductive layer and the absorber layer. 12. The photovoltaic device of claim 10, wherein the layer stack further comprises an interlayer disposed between the buffer layer and the absorber layer. 13. A photovoltaic device, comprising:
a layer stack comprising:
a transparent conductive oxide layer disposed on a support and a buffer layer disposed on the transparent conductive oxide layer, or
a transparent conductive oxide layer disposed on a support, a buffer layer disposed on the transparent conductive oxide layer, and an interlayer disposed on the buffer layer; and
an absorber layer disposed directly in contact with the layer stack, wherein the absorber layer comprises selenium, and wherein an atomic concentration of selenium varies across a thickness of the absorber layer. 14. The photovoltaic device of claim 13, wherein the absorber layer comprises a first region and a second region, the first region disposed proximate to the layer stack relative to the second region, and
wherein an average atomic concentration of selenium in the first region is greater than an average atomic concentration of selenium in the second region. 15. The photovoltaic device of claim 13, wherein the absorber layer comprises a first region and a second region, the first region disposed proximate to the layer stack relative to the second region, and
wherein an average atomic concentration of selenium in the first region is lower than an average atomic concentration of selenium in the second region. 16. The photovoltaic device of claim 13, wherein the absorber layer further comprises cadmium and tellurium. 17. The photovoltaic device of claim 16, wherein the absorber layer further comprises sulfur, oxygen, copper, chlorine, or combinations thereof. 18. A method of making a photovoltaic device, comprising:
providing a absorber layer on a layer stack, wherein the absorber layer comprises selenium, and wherein an atomic concentration of selenium varies across a thickness of the absorber layer, and wherein the photovoltaic device is substantially free of a cadmium sulfide layer. 19. The method of claim 18, wherein the step of providing an absorber layer comprises contacting a semiconductor material with a selenium source. 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the selenium source comprises elemental selenium, cadmium selenide, hydrogen selenide, organo-metallic selenium, or combinations thereof. 21. The method of claim 19, wherein the semiconductor material comprises cadmium and tellurium. 22. The method of claim 19, wherein the selenium source is in the form of a vapor, a layer, or combinations thereof. 23. The method of claim 17, wherein the step of providing an absorber layer comprises:
(a) disposing a selenium source layer on the layer stack; (b) disposing a absorber layer on the selenium source layer; and (c) introducing selenium into at least a portion of the absorber layer. 24. The method of claim 23, wherein the selenium source layer has an average thickness in a range from about 1 nanometer to about 1000 nanometers. 25. The method of claim 17, wherein the step of providing an absorber layer comprises co-depositing a selenium source material and a semiconductor material. 26. The method of claim 25, wherein the selenium source material comprises elemental selenium, cadmium selenide, cadmium telluride selenide, or combinations thereof. 27. The method of claim 25, wherein the semiconductor material comprises cadmium and tellurium. | 1,700 |
4,054 | 14,579,005 | 1,793 | Disclosed are starch-based powdered clouding agents for dry beverage mixes and beverage mixes including such powdered clouding agents. The starch-based powdered clouding agent may consist essentially of retrograded maltodextrin and is substantially free of titanium dioxide. Methods of preparing beverage mixes including such powdered clouding agents are disclosed. The powdered clouding agents may be added to water to form a cloudy solution or to a dry beverage mix that may form a beverage having an opacity substantially the same as a comparable natural beverage when reconstituted with water. | 1. A powdered beverage mix including a starch-based clouding agent, the powdered beverage mix comprising:
one or more powdered beverage ingredients; and a powdered starch-based clouding agent including retrograded amylose containing maltodextrin having a dextrose equivalent (DE) of about 1 to about 15 and substantially free of titanium dioxide. 2. The powdered beverage mix of claim 1, wherein the retrograded amylose containing maltodextrin has an average particle size of about 0.1 microns to about 50 microns and includes no intact starch granules. 3. The powdered beverage mix of claim 1, wherein the retrograded amylose containing maltodextrin is formed by retrogradation of maltodextrin present in water in an amount of about 10 to about 40% by weight for at least about 24 hours. 4. The powdered beverage mix of claim 1, wherein the retrograded amylose containing maltodextrin has a dextrose equivalent of between about 4 and about 11. 5. The powdered beverage mix of claim 1, further comprising about 0.1 to about 4.0% of the retrograded amylose containing maltodextrin. 6. The powdered beverage mix of claim 1, wherein the retrograded dent corn maltodextrin comprises about 15% to about 26% amylose and from about 85% to about 74% amylopectin. 7. A powdered beverage mix including a starch-based clouding agent, the powdered beverage mix comprising:
one or more powdered beverage ingredients; and a powdered starch-based clouding agent including retrograded waxy maltodextrin having a dextrose equivalent (DE) of about 1 to about 4 and substantially free of titanium dioxide. 8. The powdered beverage mix of claim 7, wherein the retrograded waxy maltodextrin has an average particle size of about 0.1 microns to about 50 microns and includes no intact starch granules. 9. The powdered beverage mix of claim 7, wherein the retrograded waxy maltodextrin is formed by retrogradation of maltodextrin present in water in an amount of about 20 to about 40% by weight for at least about 24 hours. 10. The powdered beverage mix of claim 7, wherein the retrograded waxy maltodextrin has a dextrose equivalent of between about 1 and about 3. 11. The powdered beverage mix of claim 7, further comprising about 0.1 to about 4.0% of the retrograded waxy maltodextrin. 12. The powdered beverage mix of claim 7, wherein the retrograded waxy maltodextrin comprises up to about 1% amylose and from about 99% to about 100% amylopectin. 13. A method of preparing a powdered starch-based clouding agent for a dry beverage mix composition, the method comprising:
adding about 10% by weight to about 40% by weight maltodextrin to water to form a first maltodextrin solution where the maltodextrin is dissolved in the water; heating the first maltodextrin solution at a temperature from about 125° F. to about 175° F. to form a heated first solution; storing the heated first solution for at least about 12 hours to provide a second solution; and drying the second solution to form the powdered clouding agent. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the adding of the maltodextrin to water comprises adding an amylose containing maltodextrin having a dextrose equivalent of between about 1 and about 15 to the water in an amount of about 25% by weight to about 35% by weight. 15. The method of claim 13, wherein the adding of the amylose containing maltodextrin to water comprises adding a waxy maltodextrin having a dextrose equivalent of between about 1 and about 4 to the water in an amount of about 25% by weight to about 35% by weight. 16. The method of claim 13, wherein the heating of the first solution further comprises stirring the first solution during the heating. 17. The method of claim 13, wherein the starch-based powdered clouding agent consists essentially of retrograded amylose containing corn maltodextrin and is substantially free of titanium dioxide and gum. 18. The method of claim 13, wherein the powdered starch-based clouding agent consists essentially of retrograded waxy maltodextrin and is substantially free of titanium dioxide. 19. The method of claim 13, wherein the storing comprises storing the heated first solution at a temperature of about 35° F. to about 45° F. 20. The method of claim 13, wherein the storing comprises storing the first solution at a temperature of about 65° F. to about 75° F. 21. The method of claim 13, wherein the drying further comprises spray-drying the second solution at a temperature of about 155° F. to about 175° F. 22. The method of claim 13, further comprising adding the starch-based powdered clouding agent to water in an amount of from about 0.005% to about 0.1% by total weight to provide an opaque aqueous solution. 23. The method of claim 13, further comprising adding the starch-based powdered clouding agent to a dry beverage mix composition in an amount of about 0.1% to about 4% by total weight of the dry beverage mix composition. 24. The method of claim 23, further comprising adding the dry beverage mix composition to water in an amount of about 0.005% to about 0.10% by total weight to form an opaque drinkable beverage. | Disclosed are starch-based powdered clouding agents for dry beverage mixes and beverage mixes including such powdered clouding agents. The starch-based powdered clouding agent may consist essentially of retrograded maltodextrin and is substantially free of titanium dioxide. Methods of preparing beverage mixes including such powdered clouding agents are disclosed. The powdered clouding agents may be added to water to form a cloudy solution or to a dry beverage mix that may form a beverage having an opacity substantially the same as a comparable natural beverage when reconstituted with water.1. A powdered beverage mix including a starch-based clouding agent, the powdered beverage mix comprising:
one or more powdered beverage ingredients; and a powdered starch-based clouding agent including retrograded amylose containing maltodextrin having a dextrose equivalent (DE) of about 1 to about 15 and substantially free of titanium dioxide. 2. The powdered beverage mix of claim 1, wherein the retrograded amylose containing maltodextrin has an average particle size of about 0.1 microns to about 50 microns and includes no intact starch granules. 3. The powdered beverage mix of claim 1, wherein the retrograded amylose containing maltodextrin is formed by retrogradation of maltodextrin present in water in an amount of about 10 to about 40% by weight for at least about 24 hours. 4. The powdered beverage mix of claim 1, wherein the retrograded amylose containing maltodextrin has a dextrose equivalent of between about 4 and about 11. 5. The powdered beverage mix of claim 1, further comprising about 0.1 to about 4.0% of the retrograded amylose containing maltodextrin. 6. The powdered beverage mix of claim 1, wherein the retrograded dent corn maltodextrin comprises about 15% to about 26% amylose and from about 85% to about 74% amylopectin. 7. A powdered beverage mix including a starch-based clouding agent, the powdered beverage mix comprising:
one or more powdered beverage ingredients; and a powdered starch-based clouding agent including retrograded waxy maltodextrin having a dextrose equivalent (DE) of about 1 to about 4 and substantially free of titanium dioxide. 8. The powdered beverage mix of claim 7, wherein the retrograded waxy maltodextrin has an average particle size of about 0.1 microns to about 50 microns and includes no intact starch granules. 9. The powdered beverage mix of claim 7, wherein the retrograded waxy maltodextrin is formed by retrogradation of maltodextrin present in water in an amount of about 20 to about 40% by weight for at least about 24 hours. 10. The powdered beverage mix of claim 7, wherein the retrograded waxy maltodextrin has a dextrose equivalent of between about 1 and about 3. 11. The powdered beverage mix of claim 7, further comprising about 0.1 to about 4.0% of the retrograded waxy maltodextrin. 12. The powdered beverage mix of claim 7, wherein the retrograded waxy maltodextrin comprises up to about 1% amylose and from about 99% to about 100% amylopectin. 13. A method of preparing a powdered starch-based clouding agent for a dry beverage mix composition, the method comprising:
adding about 10% by weight to about 40% by weight maltodextrin to water to form a first maltodextrin solution where the maltodextrin is dissolved in the water; heating the first maltodextrin solution at a temperature from about 125° F. to about 175° F. to form a heated first solution; storing the heated first solution for at least about 12 hours to provide a second solution; and drying the second solution to form the powdered clouding agent. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the adding of the maltodextrin to water comprises adding an amylose containing maltodextrin having a dextrose equivalent of between about 1 and about 15 to the water in an amount of about 25% by weight to about 35% by weight. 15. The method of claim 13, wherein the adding of the amylose containing maltodextrin to water comprises adding a waxy maltodextrin having a dextrose equivalent of between about 1 and about 4 to the water in an amount of about 25% by weight to about 35% by weight. 16. The method of claim 13, wherein the heating of the first solution further comprises stirring the first solution during the heating. 17. The method of claim 13, wherein the starch-based powdered clouding agent consists essentially of retrograded amylose containing corn maltodextrin and is substantially free of titanium dioxide and gum. 18. The method of claim 13, wherein the powdered starch-based clouding agent consists essentially of retrograded waxy maltodextrin and is substantially free of titanium dioxide. 19. The method of claim 13, wherein the storing comprises storing the heated first solution at a temperature of about 35° F. to about 45° F. 20. The method of claim 13, wherein the storing comprises storing the first solution at a temperature of about 65° F. to about 75° F. 21. The method of claim 13, wherein the drying further comprises spray-drying the second solution at a temperature of about 155° F. to about 175° F. 22. The method of claim 13, further comprising adding the starch-based powdered clouding agent to water in an amount of from about 0.005% to about 0.1% by total weight to provide an opaque aqueous solution. 23. The method of claim 13, further comprising adding the starch-based powdered clouding agent to a dry beverage mix composition in an amount of about 0.1% to about 4% by total weight of the dry beverage mix composition. 24. The method of claim 23, further comprising adding the dry beverage mix composition to water in an amount of about 0.005% to about 0.10% by total weight to form an opaque drinkable beverage. | 1,700 |
4,055 | 14,416,469 | 1,732 | A rare earth free, ultra low soda, particulate fluid catalytic cracking catalyst which comprises a reduced soda zeolite having fluid catalytic cracking ability under fluid catalytic cracking conditions, a magnesium salt, an inorganic binder, clay and optionally, a matrix material. The catalytic cracking catalyst is useful in a fluid catalytic cracking process to provide increased catalytic activity, and improved coke and hydrogen selectivity without the need to incorporate rare earth metals. | 1. An ultra low soda fluid catalytic cracking catalyst having increased activity and improved selectivity for cracking a hydrocarbon feedstock to lower molecular weight products, the catalyst comprising a particulate composition comprising a zeolite having catalytic cracking activity under fluid catalytic cracking conditions, a magnesium salt, clay, an inorganic binder and optionally at least one matrix material, wherein the catalyst has a Na2O content of less than 0.7 wt % Na2O, on a zeolite basis, based on the total weight of the catalyst composition. 2. The catalyst of claim 1 wherein the zeolite is a faujasite zeolite. 3. The catalyst of claim 1 wherein the Na2O content is less than 0.5 wt % Na2O, on a zeolite basis, based on the total weight of the catalyst. 4. The catalyst of claim 1 wherein the amount of zeolite present in the catalyst ranges from about 10 wt % to about 75 wt % of the total catalyst composition. 5. The catalyst of claim 4 wherein the amount of zeolite present in the catalyst ranges from about 12 wt % to about 55 wt % of the total catalyst composition. 6. The catalyst of claim 1 wherein the binder is selected from the group consisting of silica, alumina sol, peptized alumina, silica alumina and combinations thereof. 7. The catalyst of claim 6 wherein the binder is alumina sol. 8. The catalyst of claim 6 wherein the binder is an acid or base peptized alumina. 9. The catalyst of claim 7 wherein the binder comprises aluminum chlorohydrol. 10. The catalyst of claim 1 wherein the amount of binder present in the catalyst ranges from about 10 wt % to about 60 wt % of the catalyst composition. 11. The catalyst of claim 1 wherein clay is present in the composition in an amount ranging from about 5 wt % to about 65 wt % of the total catalyst composition. 12. The catalyst of claim 1 wherein a matrix material selected from the group consisting of silica, alumina, silica-alumina, zirconia, titania, and combinations thereof, is present in the catalyst. 13. The catalyst of claim 12 wherein the matrix material is present in the composition in an amount ranging from about 1 wt % to about 70 wt % of the total catalyst composition. 14. The catalyst of claim 1 wherein the catalyst comprises at least about 0.2 wt % magnesium salt, on an oxide basis, based on the total weight of the catalyst composition. 15. The catalyst of claim 14 wherein the catalyst comprises from about 0.2 wt % to about 5.0 wt % magnesium salt, on an oxide basis, based on the total weight of the catalyst composition. 16. The catalyst of claim 15 wherein the catalyst comprises from about 0.5 wt % to about 3.0 wt % magnesium salt, on an oxide basis, based on the total weight of the catalyst composition. 17. The catalyst of claim 1 wherein the zeolite and clay components of the catalyst are in the same particles. 18. The catalyst of claim 17 wherein the zeolite is a clay derived zeolite. 19. A method of forming a fluid catalytic cracking catalyst containing magnesium, said method comprising:
a. forming an aqueous slurry comprising at least one fluid catalytically cracking active zeolite having a Na2O content sufficient to provide less than 0.7 wt % Na2O, on a zeolite basis, in the final catalyst composition, an inorganic binder, clay, and optionally at least one matrix material; b. optionally, milling the slurry; c. spray drying the slurry to form catalyst particles d. optionally, calcining the catalyst particles at a temperature and for a time sufficient to remove volatiles; e. optionally, washing the catalyst particles; f. contacting the catalyst particles with an aqueous solution comprising at least one soluble magnesium salt in an amount sufficient to provide at least 0.2 wt % magnesium salt in the final catalyst composition; and g. removing and drying the particulate catalyst composition to provide a final catalyst composition having less 0.7 wt % Na2O, on a zeolite basis, at least 0.2 wt % magnesium salt, on an oxide basis, both weights being based on the total weight of the catalyst composition. 20. The method of claim 19 wherein the catalyst particles are contacted with an aqueous solution comprising at least one soluble magnesium salt in an amount sufficient to provide at least about 0.2 wt % magnesium salt, on an oxide basis, based on the total weight of the catalyst composition. 21. The method of claim 19 wherein the catalyst particles are contacted with an aqueous solution comprising at least one soluble magnesium salt in an amount sufficient to provide from about 0.2 wt % to about 5.0 wt % magnesium salt, on an oxide basis, based on the total weight of the catalyst composition. 22. The method of claim 19 wherein the catalyst particles are contacted with an aqueous solution comprising at least one soluble magnesium salt in an amount sufficient to provide from about 0.5 wt % to about 3.0 wt % magnesium salt, on an oxide basis, based on the total weight of the catalyst composition. 23. A method of catalytic cracking a hydrocarbon feedstock into lower molecular weight components, said method comprising contacting a hydrocarbon feedstock with a cracking catalyst at elevated temperature whereby lower molecular weight hydrocarbon components are formed, said cracking catalyst comprising a particulate composition comprising a zeolite having catalytic cracking activity under fluid catalytic cracking conditions, a magnesium salt, clay, an inorganic binder and optionally at least one matrix material, wherein the catalyst has a Na2O content of less than 0.7 wt % Na2O, on a zeolite basis. based on the total weight of the catalyst composition. 24. The method of claim 23 wherein the cracking catalyst further comprises faujasite zeolite. 25. The method of claim 24 wherein the zeolite is a Y-type zeolite. 26. The method of claim 23 further comprising recovering the cracking catalyst from said contacting step and treating the used catalyst in a regeneration zone to regenerate said catalyst. 27. The method of claim 26 wherein the regenerated catalyst is re-circulated to contact the hydrocarbon feedstock at elevated temperature to further form lower molecular weight hydrocarbon components. 28. The catalyst of claim 6 wherein the amount of binder present in the catalyst ranges from about 10 wt % to about 60 wt % of the catalyst composition. 29. The method of claim 23 wherein the Na2O content of the catalyst is less than 0.5 wt % Na2O, on a zeolite basis, based on the total weight of the catalyst. 30. The method of claim 23 wherein the inorganic binder of the particulate composition comprises aluminum chlorohydrol. | A rare earth free, ultra low soda, particulate fluid catalytic cracking catalyst which comprises a reduced soda zeolite having fluid catalytic cracking ability under fluid catalytic cracking conditions, a magnesium salt, an inorganic binder, clay and optionally, a matrix material. The catalytic cracking catalyst is useful in a fluid catalytic cracking process to provide increased catalytic activity, and improved coke and hydrogen selectivity without the need to incorporate rare earth metals.1. An ultra low soda fluid catalytic cracking catalyst having increased activity and improved selectivity for cracking a hydrocarbon feedstock to lower molecular weight products, the catalyst comprising a particulate composition comprising a zeolite having catalytic cracking activity under fluid catalytic cracking conditions, a magnesium salt, clay, an inorganic binder and optionally at least one matrix material, wherein the catalyst has a Na2O content of less than 0.7 wt % Na2O, on a zeolite basis, based on the total weight of the catalyst composition. 2. The catalyst of claim 1 wherein the zeolite is a faujasite zeolite. 3. The catalyst of claim 1 wherein the Na2O content is less than 0.5 wt % Na2O, on a zeolite basis, based on the total weight of the catalyst. 4. The catalyst of claim 1 wherein the amount of zeolite present in the catalyst ranges from about 10 wt % to about 75 wt % of the total catalyst composition. 5. The catalyst of claim 4 wherein the amount of zeolite present in the catalyst ranges from about 12 wt % to about 55 wt % of the total catalyst composition. 6. The catalyst of claim 1 wherein the binder is selected from the group consisting of silica, alumina sol, peptized alumina, silica alumina and combinations thereof. 7. The catalyst of claim 6 wherein the binder is alumina sol. 8. The catalyst of claim 6 wherein the binder is an acid or base peptized alumina. 9. The catalyst of claim 7 wherein the binder comprises aluminum chlorohydrol. 10. The catalyst of claim 1 wherein the amount of binder present in the catalyst ranges from about 10 wt % to about 60 wt % of the catalyst composition. 11. The catalyst of claim 1 wherein clay is present in the composition in an amount ranging from about 5 wt % to about 65 wt % of the total catalyst composition. 12. The catalyst of claim 1 wherein a matrix material selected from the group consisting of silica, alumina, silica-alumina, zirconia, titania, and combinations thereof, is present in the catalyst. 13. The catalyst of claim 12 wherein the matrix material is present in the composition in an amount ranging from about 1 wt % to about 70 wt % of the total catalyst composition. 14. The catalyst of claim 1 wherein the catalyst comprises at least about 0.2 wt % magnesium salt, on an oxide basis, based on the total weight of the catalyst composition. 15. The catalyst of claim 14 wherein the catalyst comprises from about 0.2 wt % to about 5.0 wt % magnesium salt, on an oxide basis, based on the total weight of the catalyst composition. 16. The catalyst of claim 15 wherein the catalyst comprises from about 0.5 wt % to about 3.0 wt % magnesium salt, on an oxide basis, based on the total weight of the catalyst composition. 17. The catalyst of claim 1 wherein the zeolite and clay components of the catalyst are in the same particles. 18. The catalyst of claim 17 wherein the zeolite is a clay derived zeolite. 19. A method of forming a fluid catalytic cracking catalyst containing magnesium, said method comprising:
a. forming an aqueous slurry comprising at least one fluid catalytically cracking active zeolite having a Na2O content sufficient to provide less than 0.7 wt % Na2O, on a zeolite basis, in the final catalyst composition, an inorganic binder, clay, and optionally at least one matrix material; b. optionally, milling the slurry; c. spray drying the slurry to form catalyst particles d. optionally, calcining the catalyst particles at a temperature and for a time sufficient to remove volatiles; e. optionally, washing the catalyst particles; f. contacting the catalyst particles with an aqueous solution comprising at least one soluble magnesium salt in an amount sufficient to provide at least 0.2 wt % magnesium salt in the final catalyst composition; and g. removing and drying the particulate catalyst composition to provide a final catalyst composition having less 0.7 wt % Na2O, on a zeolite basis, at least 0.2 wt % magnesium salt, on an oxide basis, both weights being based on the total weight of the catalyst composition. 20. The method of claim 19 wherein the catalyst particles are contacted with an aqueous solution comprising at least one soluble magnesium salt in an amount sufficient to provide at least about 0.2 wt % magnesium salt, on an oxide basis, based on the total weight of the catalyst composition. 21. The method of claim 19 wherein the catalyst particles are contacted with an aqueous solution comprising at least one soluble magnesium salt in an amount sufficient to provide from about 0.2 wt % to about 5.0 wt % magnesium salt, on an oxide basis, based on the total weight of the catalyst composition. 22. The method of claim 19 wherein the catalyst particles are contacted with an aqueous solution comprising at least one soluble magnesium salt in an amount sufficient to provide from about 0.5 wt % to about 3.0 wt % magnesium salt, on an oxide basis, based on the total weight of the catalyst composition. 23. A method of catalytic cracking a hydrocarbon feedstock into lower molecular weight components, said method comprising contacting a hydrocarbon feedstock with a cracking catalyst at elevated temperature whereby lower molecular weight hydrocarbon components are formed, said cracking catalyst comprising a particulate composition comprising a zeolite having catalytic cracking activity under fluid catalytic cracking conditions, a magnesium salt, clay, an inorganic binder and optionally at least one matrix material, wherein the catalyst has a Na2O content of less than 0.7 wt % Na2O, on a zeolite basis. based on the total weight of the catalyst composition. 24. The method of claim 23 wherein the cracking catalyst further comprises faujasite zeolite. 25. The method of claim 24 wherein the zeolite is a Y-type zeolite. 26. The method of claim 23 further comprising recovering the cracking catalyst from said contacting step and treating the used catalyst in a regeneration zone to regenerate said catalyst. 27. The method of claim 26 wherein the regenerated catalyst is re-circulated to contact the hydrocarbon feedstock at elevated temperature to further form lower molecular weight hydrocarbon components. 28. The catalyst of claim 6 wherein the amount of binder present in the catalyst ranges from about 10 wt % to about 60 wt % of the catalyst composition. 29. The method of claim 23 wherein the Na2O content of the catalyst is less than 0.5 wt % Na2O, on a zeolite basis, based on the total weight of the catalyst. 30. The method of claim 23 wherein the inorganic binder of the particulate composition comprises aluminum chlorohydrol. | 1,700 |
4,056 | 15,112,174 | 1,789 | A hybrid insulation product, and a related system and method of producing the hybrid insulation product in a cost-effective manner are disclosed. The insulation product has superior insulating and flame-retarding properties when compared to fiberglass insulation. The product can be used in blown-in applications, batts production, and board production. | 1. A hybrid insulation product comprising high-temperature fibers and fiberglass fibers; wherein the hybrid insulation product has improved flame retarding characteristics. 2. The product of claim 1, wherein the high-temperature fibers are stone wool fibers. 3. The product of claim 1, wherein the high-temperature fibers are slag wool fibers. 4. The product of claim 1, wherein the high-temperature fibers comprise about 5% to about 95% of the weight of the product. 5. The product of claim 1, wherein an aspect ratio of the high-temperature fibers is different from an aspect ratio of the fiberglass fiber. 6. The product of claim 1 that has an aspect ratio relationship of up to 1:8 in fiber width and up to 1:20 in fiber length between the high-temperature fibers and the fiberglass fibers. 7. The product of claim 1, wherein the product is manufactured in a renewable process utilizing thermal plasma. 8. The product of claim 7, wherein the renewable process further utilizes a metal bath. 9. The product of claim 1, wherein the product is configured to be used for a blown-in application, a batts construction, or a board construction. 10. The product of claim 1, wherein the insulating capability (R value) of the product is greater than the R value of the high-temperature fibers alone, and wherein the R value of the product is greater than the R value of the fiberglass fibers alone. 11. A method of producing a hybrid fiber comprising
preheating feedstock using a heat transfer system; heating the preheated feedstock using an induction furnace and a plasma torch to produce syngas; oxidizing the syngas using an air jet; releasing the oxidized syngas into a collection chamber; depositing a high-temperature fiber and a fiberglass fiber into the collection chamber to produce the hybrid fiber; mixing and cleaning the hybrid fiber. 12. The method of claim 11, wherein the feedstock comprises at least one of municipal solid waste, biomass, or a silicon source. 13. The method of claim 11, wherein fiber additives are added to the feedstock. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the fiber additives comprise one or more of lime or aluminum oxide. 15. The method of claim 11, wherein the heat transfer system utilizes heat recovered from the induction furnace or the plasma torch. 16. The method of claim 11, further comprising using a molten metal bath to control the temperature during use of the induction furnace and plasma torch. 17. The method of claim 11, further comprising reducing emissions using one or more of an afterburner, a filter, or a quench system. 18. The method of claim 11, further comprising adding a spray additive to the high-temperature fiber or the fiberglass fiber. 19. The method of claim 18, wherein the spray additive comprises at least one of an anti-static additive, a fiber lubricant, or a hydrophobic coating. 20. The method of claim 11, further comprising cutting or milling the high-temperature fiber. 21. The method of claim 11, further comprising removing shot from the high-temperature fiber. 22. The method of claim 11, wherein mixing and cleaning the hybrid fiber includes using a trommel. | A hybrid insulation product, and a related system and method of producing the hybrid insulation product in a cost-effective manner are disclosed. The insulation product has superior insulating and flame-retarding properties when compared to fiberglass insulation. The product can be used in blown-in applications, batts production, and board production.1. A hybrid insulation product comprising high-temperature fibers and fiberglass fibers; wherein the hybrid insulation product has improved flame retarding characteristics. 2. The product of claim 1, wherein the high-temperature fibers are stone wool fibers. 3. The product of claim 1, wherein the high-temperature fibers are slag wool fibers. 4. The product of claim 1, wherein the high-temperature fibers comprise about 5% to about 95% of the weight of the product. 5. The product of claim 1, wherein an aspect ratio of the high-temperature fibers is different from an aspect ratio of the fiberglass fiber. 6. The product of claim 1 that has an aspect ratio relationship of up to 1:8 in fiber width and up to 1:20 in fiber length between the high-temperature fibers and the fiberglass fibers. 7. The product of claim 1, wherein the product is manufactured in a renewable process utilizing thermal plasma. 8. The product of claim 7, wherein the renewable process further utilizes a metal bath. 9. The product of claim 1, wherein the product is configured to be used for a blown-in application, a batts construction, or a board construction. 10. The product of claim 1, wherein the insulating capability (R value) of the product is greater than the R value of the high-temperature fibers alone, and wherein the R value of the product is greater than the R value of the fiberglass fibers alone. 11. A method of producing a hybrid fiber comprising
preheating feedstock using a heat transfer system; heating the preheated feedstock using an induction furnace and a plasma torch to produce syngas; oxidizing the syngas using an air jet; releasing the oxidized syngas into a collection chamber; depositing a high-temperature fiber and a fiberglass fiber into the collection chamber to produce the hybrid fiber; mixing and cleaning the hybrid fiber. 12. The method of claim 11, wherein the feedstock comprises at least one of municipal solid waste, biomass, or a silicon source. 13. The method of claim 11, wherein fiber additives are added to the feedstock. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the fiber additives comprise one or more of lime or aluminum oxide. 15. The method of claim 11, wherein the heat transfer system utilizes heat recovered from the induction furnace or the plasma torch. 16. The method of claim 11, further comprising using a molten metal bath to control the temperature during use of the induction furnace and plasma torch. 17. The method of claim 11, further comprising reducing emissions using one or more of an afterburner, a filter, or a quench system. 18. The method of claim 11, further comprising adding a spray additive to the high-temperature fiber or the fiberglass fiber. 19. The method of claim 18, wherein the spray additive comprises at least one of an anti-static additive, a fiber lubricant, or a hydrophobic coating. 20. The method of claim 11, further comprising cutting or milling the high-temperature fiber. 21. The method of claim 11, further comprising removing shot from the high-temperature fiber. 22. The method of claim 11, wherein mixing and cleaning the hybrid fiber includes using a trommel. | 1,700 |
4,057 | 15,422,292 | 1,742 | A molded product production system includes a powdery material mixing and feeding device configured to feed mixed powdery materials including at least two types of powdery materials, a filler configured to fill, with the mixed powdery materials fed by the powdery material mixing and feeding device, a die bore of a compression-molding machine, a sensor configured to measure a mixing degree of the mixed powdery materials fed by the powdery material mixing and feeding device, and a molded product removal mechanism configured to distinguish a molded product obtained by compression molding mixed powdery materials having a mixing degree measured by the sensor out of a predetermined range from a molded product obtained by compression molding mixed powdery materials having a mixing degree within the predetermined range. | 1. A molded product production system, comprising:
a powdery material mixing and feeding device configured to feed mixed powdery materials including at least two types of powdery materials; a filler configured to fill, with the mixed powdery materials fed by the powdery material mixing and feeding device, a die bore of a compression-molding machine configured to compress a powdery material to mold a molded product; a sensor configured to measure a mixing degree of the mixed powdery materials fed by the powdery material mixing and feeding device; and a molded product removal mechanism configured to distinguish a molded product obtained by compression molding mixed powdery materials having a mixing degree measured by the sensor out of a predetermined range from a molded product obtained by compression molding mixed powdery materials having a mixing degree within the predetermined range. 2. The molded product production system according to claim 1, wherein the sensor is disposed at the filler or between the powdery material mixing and feeding device and the filler. 3. The molded product production system according to claim 1, wherein the molded product removal mechanism is configured to sample the molded product. 4. The molded product production system according to claim 2, wherein the molded product removal mechanism is configured to sample the molded product. 5. A method of producing a compression-molded product with a compression-molding machine from mixed powdery materials including at least two types of powdery materials, the method comprising:
mixing the at least two types of powdery materials; measuring a mixing degree of the mixed powdery materials with a sensor; filling a die bore of the compression-molding machine with the mixed powdery materials; compression molding, after the filling, the mixed powdery materials filled in the die bore, with an upper punch and a lower punch of the compression-molding machine; and removing a molded product by distinguishing, in the compression-molding machine, a molded product obtained by compression molding mixed powdery materials having a mixing degree measured by the sensor out of a predetermined range from a molded product obtained by compression molding mixed powdery materials having a mixing degree within the predetermined range. 6. The method of producing the compression-molded product according to claim 5, wherein the measuring the mixing degree of the mixed powdery materials includes placing the sensor at a filler that fills the die bore with the mixed powdery materials. 7. The method of producing the compression-molded product according to claim 5, wherein the measuring the mixing degree of the mixed powdery materials includes placing the sensor between a filler that fills the die bore with the mixed powdery materials and a powdery material mixing and feeding device that feeds the mixed powdery materials. 8. The method of producing the compression-molded product according to claim 5, wherein the distinguishing comprises sampling a molded product of the compression molding. | A molded product production system includes a powdery material mixing and feeding device configured to feed mixed powdery materials including at least two types of powdery materials, a filler configured to fill, with the mixed powdery materials fed by the powdery material mixing and feeding device, a die bore of a compression-molding machine, a sensor configured to measure a mixing degree of the mixed powdery materials fed by the powdery material mixing and feeding device, and a molded product removal mechanism configured to distinguish a molded product obtained by compression molding mixed powdery materials having a mixing degree measured by the sensor out of a predetermined range from a molded product obtained by compression molding mixed powdery materials having a mixing degree within the predetermined range.1. A molded product production system, comprising:
a powdery material mixing and feeding device configured to feed mixed powdery materials including at least two types of powdery materials; a filler configured to fill, with the mixed powdery materials fed by the powdery material mixing and feeding device, a die bore of a compression-molding machine configured to compress a powdery material to mold a molded product; a sensor configured to measure a mixing degree of the mixed powdery materials fed by the powdery material mixing and feeding device; and a molded product removal mechanism configured to distinguish a molded product obtained by compression molding mixed powdery materials having a mixing degree measured by the sensor out of a predetermined range from a molded product obtained by compression molding mixed powdery materials having a mixing degree within the predetermined range. 2. The molded product production system according to claim 1, wherein the sensor is disposed at the filler or between the powdery material mixing and feeding device and the filler. 3. The molded product production system according to claim 1, wherein the molded product removal mechanism is configured to sample the molded product. 4. The molded product production system according to claim 2, wherein the molded product removal mechanism is configured to sample the molded product. 5. A method of producing a compression-molded product with a compression-molding machine from mixed powdery materials including at least two types of powdery materials, the method comprising:
mixing the at least two types of powdery materials; measuring a mixing degree of the mixed powdery materials with a sensor; filling a die bore of the compression-molding machine with the mixed powdery materials; compression molding, after the filling, the mixed powdery materials filled in the die bore, with an upper punch and a lower punch of the compression-molding machine; and removing a molded product by distinguishing, in the compression-molding machine, a molded product obtained by compression molding mixed powdery materials having a mixing degree measured by the sensor out of a predetermined range from a molded product obtained by compression molding mixed powdery materials having a mixing degree within the predetermined range. 6. The method of producing the compression-molded product according to claim 5, wherein the measuring the mixing degree of the mixed powdery materials includes placing the sensor at a filler that fills the die bore with the mixed powdery materials. 7. The method of producing the compression-molded product according to claim 5, wherein the measuring the mixing degree of the mixed powdery materials includes placing the sensor between a filler that fills the die bore with the mixed powdery materials and a powdery material mixing and feeding device that feeds the mixed powdery materials. 8. The method of producing the compression-molded product according to claim 5, wherein the distinguishing comprises sampling a molded product of the compression molding. | 1,700 |
4,058 | 15,103,081 | 1,786 | It is an object to improve the anti-fraying properties of rubber-reinforcing cords without significant reduction in productivity. The present invention provides a water-based treatment agent for forming a rubber-reinforcing cord having a coating. The water-based treatment agent includes a rubber latex, a crosslinking agent, and a filler. A content of the crosslinking agent is 50 parts by mass or more and 150 parts by mass or less per 100 parts by mass of solids contained in the rubber latex, and a content of the filler is more than 50 parts by mass and 80 parts by mass or less per 100 parts by mass of the solids contained in the rubber latex. | 1. A water-based treatment agent for forming a rubber-reinforcing cord having a coating, the water-based treatment agent comprising a rubber latex, a crosslinking agent, and a filler, wherein
a content of the crosslinking agent is 50 parts by mass or more and 150 parts by mass or less per 100 parts by mass of solids contained in the rubber latex, and a content of the filler is more than 50 parts by mass and 80 parts by mass or less per 100 parts by mass of the solids contained in the rubber latex. 2. The water-based treatment agent according to claim 1, wherein the rubber latex is a latex of at least one rubber selected from the group consisting of nitrile rubber, hydrogenated nitrile rubber, carboxyl-modified nitrile rubber, and carboxyl-modified hydrogenated nitrile rubber. 3. The water-based treatment agent according to claim 1, wherein the crosslinking agent is at least one selected from the group consisting of a maleimide crosslinking agent and a polyisocyanate. 4. The water-based treatment agent according to claim 1, wherein the filler is at least one selected from the group consisting of silica and carbon black. 5. The water-based treatment agent according to claim 1, wherein the water-based treatment agent is free of a resorcinol-formaldehyde condensate. 6. A rubber-reinforcing cord for reinforcing a rubber product, the rubber-reinforcing cord comprising at least one strand, wherein
the strand comprises at least one filament bundle and a first coating formed at least on a surface of the filament bundle, the first coating being formed using the water-based treatment agent according to claim 1. 7. The rubber-reinforcing cord according to claim 6, wherein a mass of the first coating is 5 to 35 mass % with respect to a mass of the filament bundle. 8. The rubber-reinforcing cord according to claim 6, wherein the filament bundle comprises at least one selected from aramid fibers, glass fibers, carbon fibers, and polyparaphenylene benzoxazole. 9. The rubber-reinforcing cord according to claim 8, wherein the filament bundle comprises aramid fibers. 10. A method for producing a rubber-reinforcing cord, comprising a step (i) of assembling filaments into a filament bundle; applying the water-based treatment agent according to claim 1 at least to a surface of the filament bundle; drying the applied water-based treatment agent into a first coating to form a strand; and twisting two or more pieces of the strand together into a cord. 11. The method for producing a rubber-reinforcing cord according to claim 10, further comprising a step (ii) of applying a treatment agent for forming a second coating onto the cord obtained in the step (i); and drying the treatment agent on the cord, with a load applied to the cord in a length direction of the cord, to form the second coating provided outside the first coating. 12. A rubber product comprising a rubber composition and a rubber-reinforcing cord embedded in the rubber composition, wherein
the rubber-reinforcing cord is the rubber-reinforcing cord according to claim 6. 13. The rubber product according to claim 12, being a transmission belt. 14. The rubber product according to claim 13, being a synchronous transmission belt or a friction transmission belt. 15. The rubber product according to claim 14, being a toothed belt, a flat belt, a round belt, a V belt, or a V-ribbed belt. | It is an object to improve the anti-fraying properties of rubber-reinforcing cords without significant reduction in productivity. The present invention provides a water-based treatment agent for forming a rubber-reinforcing cord having a coating. The water-based treatment agent includes a rubber latex, a crosslinking agent, and a filler. A content of the crosslinking agent is 50 parts by mass or more and 150 parts by mass or less per 100 parts by mass of solids contained in the rubber latex, and a content of the filler is more than 50 parts by mass and 80 parts by mass or less per 100 parts by mass of the solids contained in the rubber latex.1. A water-based treatment agent for forming a rubber-reinforcing cord having a coating, the water-based treatment agent comprising a rubber latex, a crosslinking agent, and a filler, wherein
a content of the crosslinking agent is 50 parts by mass or more and 150 parts by mass or less per 100 parts by mass of solids contained in the rubber latex, and a content of the filler is more than 50 parts by mass and 80 parts by mass or less per 100 parts by mass of the solids contained in the rubber latex. 2. The water-based treatment agent according to claim 1, wherein the rubber latex is a latex of at least one rubber selected from the group consisting of nitrile rubber, hydrogenated nitrile rubber, carboxyl-modified nitrile rubber, and carboxyl-modified hydrogenated nitrile rubber. 3. The water-based treatment agent according to claim 1, wherein the crosslinking agent is at least one selected from the group consisting of a maleimide crosslinking agent and a polyisocyanate. 4. The water-based treatment agent according to claim 1, wherein the filler is at least one selected from the group consisting of silica and carbon black. 5. The water-based treatment agent according to claim 1, wherein the water-based treatment agent is free of a resorcinol-formaldehyde condensate. 6. A rubber-reinforcing cord for reinforcing a rubber product, the rubber-reinforcing cord comprising at least one strand, wherein
the strand comprises at least one filament bundle and a first coating formed at least on a surface of the filament bundle, the first coating being formed using the water-based treatment agent according to claim 1. 7. The rubber-reinforcing cord according to claim 6, wherein a mass of the first coating is 5 to 35 mass % with respect to a mass of the filament bundle. 8. The rubber-reinforcing cord according to claim 6, wherein the filament bundle comprises at least one selected from aramid fibers, glass fibers, carbon fibers, and polyparaphenylene benzoxazole. 9. The rubber-reinforcing cord according to claim 8, wherein the filament bundle comprises aramid fibers. 10. A method for producing a rubber-reinforcing cord, comprising a step (i) of assembling filaments into a filament bundle; applying the water-based treatment agent according to claim 1 at least to a surface of the filament bundle; drying the applied water-based treatment agent into a first coating to form a strand; and twisting two or more pieces of the strand together into a cord. 11. The method for producing a rubber-reinforcing cord according to claim 10, further comprising a step (ii) of applying a treatment agent for forming a second coating onto the cord obtained in the step (i); and drying the treatment agent on the cord, with a load applied to the cord in a length direction of the cord, to form the second coating provided outside the first coating. 12. A rubber product comprising a rubber composition and a rubber-reinforcing cord embedded in the rubber composition, wherein
the rubber-reinforcing cord is the rubber-reinforcing cord according to claim 6. 13. The rubber product according to claim 12, being a transmission belt. 14. The rubber product according to claim 13, being a synchronous transmission belt or a friction transmission belt. 15. The rubber product according to claim 14, being a toothed belt, a flat belt, a round belt, a V belt, or a V-ribbed belt. | 1,700 |
4,059 | 14,781,440 | 1,734 | A steel sheet for nitriding has excellent formability and punchability. The steel sheet has a composition including, in percent by mass, 0.02% to 0.08% of C, 0.1% or less of Si, 0.2% to 1.8% of Mn, 0.05% or less of P, 0.02% or less of S, 0.01% to 0.06% of Al, 0.5% to 1.5% of Cr, 0.01% or less of N, and the balance being Fe and incidental impurities; and has a microstructure including ferrite as a main phase and pearlite and/or bainite as a secondary phase. The ferrite has a fraction of 70% or more in the entire microstructure and an average grain diameter of 5 to 25 gm. An average length of the major axis of cementite present in the secondary phase in a cross section in the rolling direction of the steel sheet is 3.0 μm or less. | 1.-4. (canceled) 5. A steel sheet for nitriding having a composition and a microstructure:
the composition comprising in percent by mass, 0.02% to 0.08% of C, 0.1% or less of Si; 0.2% to 1.8% of Mn, 0.05% or less of P; 0.02% or less of S, 0.01% to 0.06% of Al; 0.5% to 1.5% of Cr, 0.01% or less of N; and the balance being Fe and incidental impurities; and a microstructure including ferrite as a main phase and pearlite and/or bainite as a secondary phase, wherein the ferrite has a fraction of 70% or more in the entire microstructure and an average grain diameter of 5 to 25 μm, and cementite present in the secondary phase has an average length of a major axis of 3.0 μm or less in a cross section in a rolling direction of the steel sheet. 6. The steel sheet for nitriding according to claim 5, wherein the composition further comprises, in percent by mass, at least one selected from the group consisting of 0.005% to 0.075% of V, 0.005% to 0.025% of Nb, and 0.005% to 0.025% of Ti. 7. A method of producing a steel sheet for nitriding, comprising:
heating a steel slab having a composition including, in percent by mass, 0.02% to 0.08% of C, 0.1% or less of Si, 0.2% to 1.8% of Mn, 0.05% or less of P, 0.02% or less of S, 0.01% to 0.06% of Al, 0.5% to 1.5% of Cr, 0.01% or less of N, and the balance being Fe and incidental impurities, to 1,050° C. to 1,250° C.; hot rolling the heated steel slab at a finishing temperature ranging from the Ar3 transformation temperature to (the Ar3 transformation temperature+100° C.); cooling the hot rolled steel sheet at a cooling rate of 40° C./s to 80° C./s in the temperature range from the finishing temperature to 750° C. at a cooling rate of 15° C./s to 35° C./s in the temperature range from 750° C. to a cooling stop temperature of 500° C. to 650° C.; and coiling the cooled steel sheet at a coiling temperature of 500° C. to 650° C. 8. The method according to claim 7, wherein the composition of the steel slab further includes, in percent by mass, at least one selected from the group consisting of 0.005% to 0.075% of V, 0.005% to 0.025% of Nb, and 0.005% to 0.025% of Ti. 9. The method according to claim 7, wherein the steel sheet has a microstructure including ferrite as a main phase and pearlite and/or bainite as a secondary phase, wherein the ferrite has a fraction of 70% or more in the entire microstructure and an average grain diameter of 5 to 25 μm, and cementite present in the secondary phase has an average length of a major axis of 3.0 μm or less in a cross section in a rolling direction of the steel sheet. | A steel sheet for nitriding has excellent formability and punchability. The steel sheet has a composition including, in percent by mass, 0.02% to 0.08% of C, 0.1% or less of Si, 0.2% to 1.8% of Mn, 0.05% or less of P, 0.02% or less of S, 0.01% to 0.06% of Al, 0.5% to 1.5% of Cr, 0.01% or less of N, and the balance being Fe and incidental impurities; and has a microstructure including ferrite as a main phase and pearlite and/or bainite as a secondary phase. The ferrite has a fraction of 70% or more in the entire microstructure and an average grain diameter of 5 to 25 gm. An average length of the major axis of cementite present in the secondary phase in a cross section in the rolling direction of the steel sheet is 3.0 μm or less.1.-4. (canceled) 5. A steel sheet for nitriding having a composition and a microstructure:
the composition comprising in percent by mass, 0.02% to 0.08% of C, 0.1% or less of Si; 0.2% to 1.8% of Mn, 0.05% or less of P; 0.02% or less of S, 0.01% to 0.06% of Al; 0.5% to 1.5% of Cr, 0.01% or less of N; and the balance being Fe and incidental impurities; and a microstructure including ferrite as a main phase and pearlite and/or bainite as a secondary phase, wherein the ferrite has a fraction of 70% or more in the entire microstructure and an average grain diameter of 5 to 25 μm, and cementite present in the secondary phase has an average length of a major axis of 3.0 μm or less in a cross section in a rolling direction of the steel sheet. 6. The steel sheet for nitriding according to claim 5, wherein the composition further comprises, in percent by mass, at least one selected from the group consisting of 0.005% to 0.075% of V, 0.005% to 0.025% of Nb, and 0.005% to 0.025% of Ti. 7. A method of producing a steel sheet for nitriding, comprising:
heating a steel slab having a composition including, in percent by mass, 0.02% to 0.08% of C, 0.1% or less of Si, 0.2% to 1.8% of Mn, 0.05% or less of P, 0.02% or less of S, 0.01% to 0.06% of Al, 0.5% to 1.5% of Cr, 0.01% or less of N, and the balance being Fe and incidental impurities, to 1,050° C. to 1,250° C.; hot rolling the heated steel slab at a finishing temperature ranging from the Ar3 transformation temperature to (the Ar3 transformation temperature+100° C.); cooling the hot rolled steel sheet at a cooling rate of 40° C./s to 80° C./s in the temperature range from the finishing temperature to 750° C. at a cooling rate of 15° C./s to 35° C./s in the temperature range from 750° C. to a cooling stop temperature of 500° C. to 650° C.; and coiling the cooled steel sheet at a coiling temperature of 500° C. to 650° C. 8. The method according to claim 7, wherein the composition of the steel slab further includes, in percent by mass, at least one selected from the group consisting of 0.005% to 0.075% of V, 0.005% to 0.025% of Nb, and 0.005% to 0.025% of Ti. 9. The method according to claim 7, wherein the steel sheet has a microstructure including ferrite as a main phase and pearlite and/or bainite as a secondary phase, wherein the ferrite has a fraction of 70% or more in the entire microstructure and an average grain diameter of 5 to 25 μm, and cementite present in the secondary phase has an average length of a major axis of 3.0 μm or less in a cross section in a rolling direction of the steel sheet. | 1,700 |
4,060 | 16,092,790 | 1,718 | There are provided reactive metal powder in-flight heat treatment processes. For example, such processes comprise providing a reactive metal powder; and contacting the reactive metal powder with at least one additive gas while carrying out said in-flight heat treatment process, thereby obtaining a raw reactive metal powder. | 1. A reactive metal powder in-flight heat treatment process comprising:
contacting a reactive metal powder with an in-flight heat treatment process gas mixture comprising (i) at least one in-flight heat treatment process gas and (ii) at least one additive gas that is present at a concentration of less than 1000 ppm in said mixture, while carrying out said in-flight heat treatment process to obtain a raw reactive metal powder; and forming, with said at least one additive gas, a surface layer on said raw reactive metal powder, said raw reactive metal powder with said surface layer thereon, comprises less than 1000 ppm of at least one element from said at least one additive gas, wherein said surface layer comprises a first layer and a second layer, said first layer comprising atoms of said heated reactive metal source with atoms and/or molecules of said at least one additive gas, said first layer being a depletion layer deeper and thicker than said second layer, said second layer being a native oxide layer, and wherein a particle size distribution of about 10 to about 53 μm of said raw reactive metal powder with said surface layer thereon has a flowability less than 40 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 2. A reactive metal powder in-flight heat treatment process comprising:
providing a reactive metal powder; contacting said reactive metal powder with an in-flight heat treatment process gas mixture comprising (i) at least one in-flight heat treatment process gas and (ii) at least one additive gas, while carrying out said in-flight heat treatment process to obtain a raw reactive metal powder having a surface layer thereon; and optionally sieving said raw reactive metal powder having said surface layer thereon to obtain a powder having predetermined particle size; and contacting said powder having said surface layer thereon and optionally having said predetermined particle size, with water. 3. (canceled) 4. The process of claim 2, wherein the at least one additive gas comprises an oxygen-containing gas. 5. The process of claim 2, wherein the at least one additive gas comprises an oxygen-containing gas and an inert gas. 6. (canceled) 7. The process of claim 2, wherein the at least one additive gas comprises an oxygen-containing gas chosen from O2, CO2, CO, NO2, air, water vapor and mixtures thereof. 8. The process of claim 2, wherein the at least one additive gas is a halogen-containing gas. 9. (canceled) 10. The process of claim 2, wherein the at least one additive gas is a hydrogen-containing gas. 11. The process of claim 2, wherein the at least one additive gas is a sulfur-containing gas. 12. The process of claim 2, wherein the at least one additive gas is a nitrogen-containing gas. 13. The process of claim 2, wherein the at least one additive gas is chosen from O2, H2O, CO, CO2, NO2, N2, NO3, Cl2, SO2, SO3, and mixtures thereof. 14. The process of claim 2, wherein said reactive metal powder comprises at least one of titanium, zirconium, magnesium, and aluminum. 15. The process of claim 2, wherein said reactive metal powder is a metal powder comprising at least one member chosen from one of titanium, titanium alloys, zirconium, zirconium alloys, magnesium, magnesium alloys, aluminum and aluminum alloys. 16. The process of claim 2, wherein said reactive metal powder comprises titanium. 17. The process of claim 2, wherein said reactive metal powder comprises a titanium alloy. 18. The process of claim 2, wherein said reactive metal powder comprises zirconium. 19. The process of claim 2, wherein said reactive metal powder comprises a zirconium alloy. 20. The process of claim 2, wherein said reactive metal powder is a metal powder comprising at least one member chosen from one of titanium and titanium alloys. 21. (canceled) 22. The process of claims 2, wherein said process is carried out by means of at least one plasma torch. 23. The process of claim 22, wherein said at least one plasma torch is a radio frequency (RF) plasma torch. 24. The process of claim 22, wherein said at least one plasma torch is a direct current (DC) plasma torch. 25. The process of claim 22, wherein said at least one plasma torch is a microwave (MW) plasma torch. 26. A process for preparing a reactive metal powder mixture comprising mixing together the raw reactive metal powder obtained by the process as defined in claim 2 with a reactive metal powder obtained by a different process. 27. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 10 to about 53 μm having a flowability less than 36 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 28. (canceled) 29. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 10 to about 53 μm having a flowability less than 30 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 30. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 10 to about 53 μm having a flowability less than 28 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 31. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 10 to about 45 μm having a flowability less than 36 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 32. (canceled) 33. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 10 to about 45 μm having a flowability less than 30 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 34. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 10 to about 45 μm having a flowability less than 28 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 35. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 15 to about 45 μm having a flowability less than 36 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 36. (canceled) 37. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 15 to about 45 μm having a flowability less than 30 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 38. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 15 to about 45 μm having a flowability less than 28 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 39. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 15 to about 53 μm having a flowability less than 36 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 40. (canceled) 41. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 15 to about 53 μm having a flowability less than 30 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 42. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 15 to about 53 μm having a flowability less than 28 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 43. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 25 to about 45 μm having a flowability less than 36 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 44. (canceled) 45. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 25 to about 45 μm having a flowability less than 30 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 46. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 25 to about 45 μm having a flowability less than 25 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 47. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 25 to about 53 μm having a flowability less than 36 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 48. (canceled) 49. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 25 to about 53 μm having a flowability less than 30 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 50. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 25 to about 53 μm having a flowability less than 25 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 51. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 45 to about 75 μm having a flowability less than 26 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 52. (canceled) 53. (canceled) 54. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 45 to about 75 μm having a flowability less than 23 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 55. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 45 to about 106 μm having a flowability less than 26 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 56. (canceled) 57. (canceled) 58. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 45 to about 106 μm having a flowability less than 23 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 59. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 45 to about 150 μm having a flowability less than 26 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 60. (canceled) 61. (canceled) 62. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 45 to about 150 μm having a flowability less than 23 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 63. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 45 to about 180 μm having a flowability less than 26 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 64. (canceled) 65. (canceled) 66. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 45 to about 180 μm having a flowability less than 23 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 67. The process of claim 1, wherein the first layer has a substantially positive charge and the second layer has a substantially negative charge, and wherein the first layer and the second layer have a combined charge that is substantially neutral. 68. The process of claim 2, further comprising:
sieving the raw reactive metal powder to separate the raw reactive metal powder by particle size distributions. 69-71. (canceled) 72. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder has an added content of electronegative atoms from the at least one additive gas of less 500 ppm. 73. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder has an added content of electronegative atoms from the at least one additive gas of less 250 ppm. 74. (canceled) 75. (canceled) 76. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder has an added content of electronegative atoms from the at least one additive gas of less 100 ppm. 77. The process of claim 1, wherein said raw reactive metal powder has an added content of each of electronegative atom(s) and/or molecule(s) from the at least one additive gas of less than 500 ppm. 78. The process of claim 1, wherein said raw reactive metal powder has an added content of each of electronegative atom(s) and/or molecule(s) from the at least one additive gas of less than 250 ppm. 79. (canceled) 80. (canceled) 81. The process of claim 1, wherein said raw reactive metal powder has an added content of each of electronegative atom and/or molecule from the at least one additive gas of less than 100 ppm. 82. The process of claim 2, wherein the heat treatment process gas is an inert gas. 83. (canceled) 84. The process of claim 1, wherein the at least one additive gas comprises an oxygen-containing gas. 85. The process of claim 1, wherein the at least one additive gas is a nitrogen-containing gas. 86. The process of claim 1, wherein the at least one additive gas is a halogen-containing gas. 87. The process of claim 1, wherein said reactive metal powder comprises at least one of titanium, zirconium, magnesium, and aluminum. 88. The process of claim 1, wherein said process is carried out by means of at least one plasma torch. | There are provided reactive metal powder in-flight heat treatment processes. For example, such processes comprise providing a reactive metal powder; and contacting the reactive metal powder with at least one additive gas while carrying out said in-flight heat treatment process, thereby obtaining a raw reactive metal powder.1. A reactive metal powder in-flight heat treatment process comprising:
contacting a reactive metal powder with an in-flight heat treatment process gas mixture comprising (i) at least one in-flight heat treatment process gas and (ii) at least one additive gas that is present at a concentration of less than 1000 ppm in said mixture, while carrying out said in-flight heat treatment process to obtain a raw reactive metal powder; and forming, with said at least one additive gas, a surface layer on said raw reactive metal powder, said raw reactive metal powder with said surface layer thereon, comprises less than 1000 ppm of at least one element from said at least one additive gas, wherein said surface layer comprises a first layer and a second layer, said first layer comprising atoms of said heated reactive metal source with atoms and/or molecules of said at least one additive gas, said first layer being a depletion layer deeper and thicker than said second layer, said second layer being a native oxide layer, and wherein a particle size distribution of about 10 to about 53 μm of said raw reactive metal powder with said surface layer thereon has a flowability less than 40 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 2. A reactive metal powder in-flight heat treatment process comprising:
providing a reactive metal powder; contacting said reactive metal powder with an in-flight heat treatment process gas mixture comprising (i) at least one in-flight heat treatment process gas and (ii) at least one additive gas, while carrying out said in-flight heat treatment process to obtain a raw reactive metal powder having a surface layer thereon; and optionally sieving said raw reactive metal powder having said surface layer thereon to obtain a powder having predetermined particle size; and contacting said powder having said surface layer thereon and optionally having said predetermined particle size, with water. 3. (canceled) 4. The process of claim 2, wherein the at least one additive gas comprises an oxygen-containing gas. 5. The process of claim 2, wherein the at least one additive gas comprises an oxygen-containing gas and an inert gas. 6. (canceled) 7. The process of claim 2, wherein the at least one additive gas comprises an oxygen-containing gas chosen from O2, CO2, CO, NO2, air, water vapor and mixtures thereof. 8. The process of claim 2, wherein the at least one additive gas is a halogen-containing gas. 9. (canceled) 10. The process of claim 2, wherein the at least one additive gas is a hydrogen-containing gas. 11. The process of claim 2, wherein the at least one additive gas is a sulfur-containing gas. 12. The process of claim 2, wherein the at least one additive gas is a nitrogen-containing gas. 13. The process of claim 2, wherein the at least one additive gas is chosen from O2, H2O, CO, CO2, NO2, N2, NO3, Cl2, SO2, SO3, and mixtures thereof. 14. The process of claim 2, wherein said reactive metal powder comprises at least one of titanium, zirconium, magnesium, and aluminum. 15. The process of claim 2, wherein said reactive metal powder is a metal powder comprising at least one member chosen from one of titanium, titanium alloys, zirconium, zirconium alloys, magnesium, magnesium alloys, aluminum and aluminum alloys. 16. The process of claim 2, wherein said reactive metal powder comprises titanium. 17. The process of claim 2, wherein said reactive metal powder comprises a titanium alloy. 18. The process of claim 2, wherein said reactive metal powder comprises zirconium. 19. The process of claim 2, wherein said reactive metal powder comprises a zirconium alloy. 20. The process of claim 2, wherein said reactive metal powder is a metal powder comprising at least one member chosen from one of titanium and titanium alloys. 21. (canceled) 22. The process of claims 2, wherein said process is carried out by means of at least one plasma torch. 23. The process of claim 22, wherein said at least one plasma torch is a radio frequency (RF) plasma torch. 24. The process of claim 22, wherein said at least one plasma torch is a direct current (DC) plasma torch. 25. The process of claim 22, wherein said at least one plasma torch is a microwave (MW) plasma torch. 26. A process for preparing a reactive metal powder mixture comprising mixing together the raw reactive metal powder obtained by the process as defined in claim 2 with a reactive metal powder obtained by a different process. 27. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 10 to about 53 μm having a flowability less than 36 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 28. (canceled) 29. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 10 to about 53 μm having a flowability less than 30 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 30. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 10 to about 53 μm having a flowability less than 28 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 31. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 10 to about 45 μm having a flowability less than 36 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 32. (canceled) 33. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 10 to about 45 μm having a flowability less than 30 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 34. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 10 to about 45 μm having a flowability less than 28 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 35. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 15 to about 45 μm having a flowability less than 36 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 36. (canceled) 37. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 15 to about 45 μm having a flowability less than 30 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 38. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 15 to about 45 μm having a flowability less than 28 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 39. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 15 to about 53 μm having a flowability less than 36 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 40. (canceled) 41. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 15 to about 53 μm having a flowability less than 30 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 42. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 15 to about 53 μm having a flowability less than 28 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 43. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 25 to about 45 μm having a flowability less than 36 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 44. (canceled) 45. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 25 to about 45 μm having a flowability less than 30 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 46. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 25 to about 45 μm having a flowability less than 25 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 47. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 25 to about 53 μm having a flowability less than 36 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 48. (canceled) 49. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 25 to about 53 μm having a flowability less than 30 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 50. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 25 to about 53 μm having a flowability less than 25 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 51. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 45 to about 75 μm having a flowability less than 26 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 52. (canceled) 53. (canceled) 54. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 45 to about 75 μm having a flowability less than 23 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 55. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 45 to about 106 μm having a flowability less than 26 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 56. (canceled) 57. (canceled) 58. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 45 to about 106 μm having a flowability less than 23 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 59. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 45 to about 150 μm having a flowability less than 26 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 60. (canceled) 61. (canceled) 62. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 45 to about 150 μm having a flowability less than 23 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 63. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 45 to about 180 μm having a flowability less than 26 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 64. (canceled) 65. (canceled) 66. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder comprises a particle size distribution of about 45 to about 180 μm having a flowability less than 23 s, measured according to ASTM B213. 67. The process of claim 1, wherein the first layer has a substantially positive charge and the second layer has a substantially negative charge, and wherein the first layer and the second layer have a combined charge that is substantially neutral. 68. The process of claim 2, further comprising:
sieving the raw reactive metal powder to separate the raw reactive metal powder by particle size distributions. 69-71. (canceled) 72. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder has an added content of electronegative atoms from the at least one additive gas of less 500 ppm. 73. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder has an added content of electronegative atoms from the at least one additive gas of less 250 ppm. 74. (canceled) 75. (canceled) 76. The process of claim 1, wherein the raw reactive metal powder has an added content of electronegative atoms from the at least one additive gas of less 100 ppm. 77. The process of claim 1, wherein said raw reactive metal powder has an added content of each of electronegative atom(s) and/or molecule(s) from the at least one additive gas of less than 500 ppm. 78. The process of claim 1, wherein said raw reactive metal powder has an added content of each of electronegative atom(s) and/or molecule(s) from the at least one additive gas of less than 250 ppm. 79. (canceled) 80. (canceled) 81. The process of claim 1, wherein said raw reactive metal powder has an added content of each of electronegative atom and/or molecule from the at least one additive gas of less than 100 ppm. 82. The process of claim 2, wherein the heat treatment process gas is an inert gas. 83. (canceled) 84. The process of claim 1, wherein the at least one additive gas comprises an oxygen-containing gas. 85. The process of claim 1, wherein the at least one additive gas is a nitrogen-containing gas. 86. The process of claim 1, wherein the at least one additive gas is a halogen-containing gas. 87. The process of claim 1, wherein said reactive metal powder comprises at least one of titanium, zirconium, magnesium, and aluminum. 88. The process of claim 1, wherein said process is carried out by means of at least one plasma torch. | 1,700 |
4,061 | 15,168,768 | 1,791 | An asymmetrical planar bread food product comprising a first baked surface formed in a first pattern and a second baked surface formed in a second pattern different from the first pattern. Preferably, the first pattern is a waffle pattern and the second pattern is a smooth surface. An apparatus for forming a planar bread food product comprises a first baking plate having a first surface formed in a first pattern, a second baking plate opposed to the first baking plate and having a second surface formed in a second pattern different from the first pattern, a first heating element disposed adjacent to the first baking plate, and a second heating element disposed adjacent to the second baking plate, wherein the second surface is off-spaced by a stop from the first surface thereby defining a baking chamber therebetween. | 1. An asymmetrical planar bread food product, comprising:
a first patterned baked surface that is a negative image of a first positive relief pattern in an associated first baking plate, and a second patterned baked surface, that is a negative image of a second positive relief pattern different from said first positive relief pattern in an associated second baking plate, wherein said first and second patterned baked surfaces have been formed by exposing bread dough directly against said respective first and second positive relief patterns. 2. An asymmetrical planar bread food product in accordance with claim 1 wherein said first positive relief pattern is a waffle pattern. 3. An asymmetrical planar bread food product in accordance with claim 1 wherein said second positive relief pattern is other than a waffle pattern. 4. An apparatus for forming an asymmetrical planar bread food product comprising:
a) a first baking plate having a first surface formed in a first pattern; b) a second baking plate having a second surface formed in a second pattern different from said first pattern; c) a first heating element disposed adjacent to said first baking plate; and d) a second heating element disposed adjacent to said second baking plate, wherein said second surface is off-spaced from said first surface by at least one stop thereby defining a baking chamber therebetween. 5. An apparatus in accordance with claim 4 wherein said first pattern is a waffle pattern. 6. An apparatus in accordance with claim 4 wherein said second pattern is a smooth surface. 7. An asymmetrical planar bread food product in accordance with claim 1 wherein said second positive relief pattern comprises a smooth surface. | An asymmetrical planar bread food product comprising a first baked surface formed in a first pattern and a second baked surface formed in a second pattern different from the first pattern. Preferably, the first pattern is a waffle pattern and the second pattern is a smooth surface. An apparatus for forming a planar bread food product comprises a first baking plate having a first surface formed in a first pattern, a second baking plate opposed to the first baking plate and having a second surface formed in a second pattern different from the first pattern, a first heating element disposed adjacent to the first baking plate, and a second heating element disposed adjacent to the second baking plate, wherein the second surface is off-spaced by a stop from the first surface thereby defining a baking chamber therebetween.1. An asymmetrical planar bread food product, comprising:
a first patterned baked surface that is a negative image of a first positive relief pattern in an associated first baking plate, and a second patterned baked surface, that is a negative image of a second positive relief pattern different from said first positive relief pattern in an associated second baking plate, wherein said first and second patterned baked surfaces have been formed by exposing bread dough directly against said respective first and second positive relief patterns. 2. An asymmetrical planar bread food product in accordance with claim 1 wherein said first positive relief pattern is a waffle pattern. 3. An asymmetrical planar bread food product in accordance with claim 1 wherein said second positive relief pattern is other than a waffle pattern. 4. An apparatus for forming an asymmetrical planar bread food product comprising:
a) a first baking plate having a first surface formed in a first pattern; b) a second baking plate having a second surface formed in a second pattern different from said first pattern; c) a first heating element disposed adjacent to said first baking plate; and d) a second heating element disposed adjacent to said second baking plate, wherein said second surface is off-spaced from said first surface by at least one stop thereby defining a baking chamber therebetween. 5. An apparatus in accordance with claim 4 wherein said first pattern is a waffle pattern. 6. An apparatus in accordance with claim 4 wherein said second pattern is a smooth surface. 7. An asymmetrical planar bread food product in accordance with claim 1 wherein said second positive relief pattern comprises a smooth surface. | 1,700 |
4,062 | 13,946,309 | 1,747 | The present disclosure provides an electronic smoking article adapted to provide haptic feedback to a user. The smoking article can comprise a housing that includes a haptic feedback component, such as a vibration transducer. The smoking article can be formed of a control body and/or a cartridge, and the haptic feedback component may be present in any one or both of the control body and the cartridge. The haptic feedback component is adapted to generate a waveform that defines a status of the electronic smoking article. The disclosure also provides a method for providing haptic feedback in an electronic smoking article. | 1. An electronic smoking article comprising a housing including a haptic feedback component. 2. The electronic smoking article according to claim 1, further comprising a microcontroller in electrical communication with the haptic feedback component. 3. The electronic smoking article according to claim 2, wherein the microcontroller is adapted to instruct the haptic feedback component to generate one or more different waveforms defining a status of the electronic smoking article. 4. The electronic smoking article according to claim 3, wherein the instruction from the microcontroller corresponds to an input. 5. The electronic smoking article according to claim 2, further comprising a haptic driver in electrical communication with the microcontroller and the haptic feedback component. 6. The electronic smoking article according to claim 1, wherein the haptic feedback component is a vibrating haptic actuator. 7. The electronic smoking article according to claim 6, wherein the vibrating haptic actuator comprises an eccentric rotating mass (ERM) motor. 8. The electronic smoking article according to claim 7, wherein the vibrating haptic actuator is in a cylindrical form factor. 9. The electronic smoking article according to claim 7, wherein the vibrating haptic actuator is in a coin form factor. 10. The electronic smoking article according to claim 6, wherein the vibrating haptic actuator comprises a linear resonant actuator (LRA). 11. The electronic smoking article according to claim 6, wherein the vibrating haptic actuator is adapted for electroactive polymer actuation. 12. The electronic smoking article according to claim 6, wherein the vibrating haptic actuator is adapted for piezoelectric actuation. 13. The electronic smoking article according to claim 6, wherein the vibrating haptic actuator is adapted for electrostatic actuation. 14. The electronic smoking article according to claim 6, wherein the vibrating haptic actuator is adapted for audio wave actuation. 15. The electronic smoking article according to claim 6, wherein the vibrating haptic actuator is a vibration transducer. 16. The electronic smoking article according to claim 1, wherein the haptic feedback component is adapted for reverse-electrovibration. 17. The electronic smoking article according to claim 1, wherein the housing defines a control body that comprises the haptic feedback component, a microcontroller, and an electrical power source. 18. The electronic smoking article according to claim 17, wherein the control body further comprises a flow sensor. 19. The electronic smoking article according to claim 17, further comprising a cartridge adapted for connection to the control body. 20. The electronic smoking article according to claim 19, wherein the cartridge comprises a housing including a heater and an aerosol precursor composition. 21. The electronic smoking article according to claim 20, wherein the cartridge further comprises a reservoir adapted to contain the aerosol precursor composition. 22. The electronic smoking article according to claim 21, wherein the cartridge further comprises a transport element adapted to transport the aerosol precursor composition from the reservoir to the heater. 23. The electronic smoking article according to claim 1, wherein the haptic feedback component has a width of about 8 mm or less. 24. A method for providing haptic feedback in an electronic smoking article, the method comprising:
providing the electronic smoking article comprising a housing including a haptic feedback component and a microcontroller; generating an input to the microcontroller; delivering an instruction from the microcontroller to the haptic feedback component; and generating one or more different waveforms from the haptic feedback component. 25. The method according to claim 24, wherein the one or more different waveforms define a status of the electronic smoking article. | The present disclosure provides an electronic smoking article adapted to provide haptic feedback to a user. The smoking article can comprise a housing that includes a haptic feedback component, such as a vibration transducer. The smoking article can be formed of a control body and/or a cartridge, and the haptic feedback component may be present in any one or both of the control body and the cartridge. The haptic feedback component is adapted to generate a waveform that defines a status of the electronic smoking article. The disclosure also provides a method for providing haptic feedback in an electronic smoking article.1. An electronic smoking article comprising a housing including a haptic feedback component. 2. The electronic smoking article according to claim 1, further comprising a microcontroller in electrical communication with the haptic feedback component. 3. The electronic smoking article according to claim 2, wherein the microcontroller is adapted to instruct the haptic feedback component to generate one or more different waveforms defining a status of the electronic smoking article. 4. The electronic smoking article according to claim 3, wherein the instruction from the microcontroller corresponds to an input. 5. The electronic smoking article according to claim 2, further comprising a haptic driver in electrical communication with the microcontroller and the haptic feedback component. 6. The electronic smoking article according to claim 1, wherein the haptic feedback component is a vibrating haptic actuator. 7. The electronic smoking article according to claim 6, wherein the vibrating haptic actuator comprises an eccentric rotating mass (ERM) motor. 8. The electronic smoking article according to claim 7, wherein the vibrating haptic actuator is in a cylindrical form factor. 9. The electronic smoking article according to claim 7, wherein the vibrating haptic actuator is in a coin form factor. 10. The electronic smoking article according to claim 6, wherein the vibrating haptic actuator comprises a linear resonant actuator (LRA). 11. The electronic smoking article according to claim 6, wherein the vibrating haptic actuator is adapted for electroactive polymer actuation. 12. The electronic smoking article according to claim 6, wherein the vibrating haptic actuator is adapted for piezoelectric actuation. 13. The electronic smoking article according to claim 6, wherein the vibrating haptic actuator is adapted for electrostatic actuation. 14. The electronic smoking article according to claim 6, wherein the vibrating haptic actuator is adapted for audio wave actuation. 15. The electronic smoking article according to claim 6, wherein the vibrating haptic actuator is a vibration transducer. 16. The electronic smoking article according to claim 1, wherein the haptic feedback component is adapted for reverse-electrovibration. 17. The electronic smoking article according to claim 1, wherein the housing defines a control body that comprises the haptic feedback component, a microcontroller, and an electrical power source. 18. The electronic smoking article according to claim 17, wherein the control body further comprises a flow sensor. 19. The electronic smoking article according to claim 17, further comprising a cartridge adapted for connection to the control body. 20. The electronic smoking article according to claim 19, wherein the cartridge comprises a housing including a heater and an aerosol precursor composition. 21. The electronic smoking article according to claim 20, wherein the cartridge further comprises a reservoir adapted to contain the aerosol precursor composition. 22. The electronic smoking article according to claim 21, wherein the cartridge further comprises a transport element adapted to transport the aerosol precursor composition from the reservoir to the heater. 23. The electronic smoking article according to claim 1, wherein the haptic feedback component has a width of about 8 mm or less. 24. A method for providing haptic feedback in an electronic smoking article, the method comprising:
providing the electronic smoking article comprising a housing including a haptic feedback component and a microcontroller; generating an input to the microcontroller; delivering an instruction from the microcontroller to the haptic feedback component; and generating one or more different waveforms from the haptic feedback component. 25. The method according to claim 24, wherein the one or more different waveforms define a status of the electronic smoking article. | 1,700 |
4,063 | 14,176,702 | 1,789 | A polymer filament molded product and a method of making a filament network that includes coating filaments with a latex polymer and shaping the filaments into a molded product; one in which a polymer is shaped and molded into a larger filament network. The molded products can be objects for apparel, home and garden, furnishings, health care, engineering, industrial and consumer goods. The molded filament mesh is “fractal” in nature because it is a filament interconnected network at the molecular scale and at the scale of the molded product. The natural tendency of the long molecule filaments to be an entangled structure is maintained. | 1. A molded product comprising:
an interconnected network of filaments that includes one or more of a plurality of filaments entangled within the interconnected network, wherein the interconnected network is coated with an emulsion of polymer molecules in an aqueous medium and dried to form a network of polymer filaments; a mold; and the network of polymer filaments is at least one of affixed to the mold to create the molded product or shaped to the mold to create the molded product. 2. The molded product of claim 1, wherein the emulsion is latex rubber and the aqueous medium includes at least a portion of water. 3. The molded product of claim 2, wherein the latex rubber is either pre-vulcanized or includes a vulcanizing agent. 4. The molded product of claim 1, wherein the network of filaments are coated with the emulsion of polymer molecules by at least one of a dipping, a spraying, a brushing, or a rolling. 5. The molded product of claim 1, wherein the filaments are selected from the group consisting of sisal, cotton, silk, hemp, flax, alpaca, camel, llama, firm, wool, bamboo, corn husk, linen, yute, ocote, Sansevieria trifasciata, carbon, aramid, polymer, optic fiber and combinations thereof. 6. The molded product of claim 1, wherein the molded product is selected from the group consisting of a shoe, a hat, a plant pot, a lamp shade, a basket, a house, an animal shelter, a boat, a bracelet, a chair, a cell phone cover, a hair band, a jacket, clothing, jewelry, a belt, and an eyeglass frame. 7. The molded product of claim 1 further comprising at least one additive selected from the group consisting a pigment, a portion of a tree bark, a deodorant, an anti-oxidant, zinc oxide, stearic acid, fire retardant and combinations thereof. 8. A method of preparing a molded product of a network of polymer coated filaments, the method comprising the steps of:
arranging one or more of a plurality filaments to form an interconnected network of filaments, wherein the plurality of filaments are entangled within the interconnected network in a loose configuration which allows air circulation between at least two or more of the filaments; coating the network of filaments with an emulsion of polymer molecules in an aqueous medium to form a coated network; drying the coated network to form a network of polymer coated filaments; and shaping the network of polymer coated filaments to form a molded product. 9. The method of claim 8 further comprising the step of providing a substrate having a first face and a second face, wherein the network of filaments are arranged on either the first face or the second face of the substrate. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the substrate is selected from a plastic sheet, a plastic mesh, and metal foil. 11. The method of claim 8, wherein the emulsion is latex rubber and the aqueous medium includes a portion of water. 12. The method of claim 11, wherein the latex rubber is pre-vulcanized. 13. The method of claim 11, wherein the latex rubber includes a vulcanizing agent. 14. The method of claim 11, wherein the latex rubber further includes at least one additive selected from the group consisting of a pigment, a portion of tree bark, a deodorant, an anti-oxidant, zinc oxide, stearic acid, fire retardant and combinations thereof. 15. The method of claim 8, wherein the network of polymer coated filaments are coated with a powder selected from the group consisting of corn starch, wheat starch, calcium carbonate, ground wood, ground coal, ash, ground leaves, ground seeds, ground plants, a pigment, a polymer, polyacrylamide and combinations thereof. 16. The method of claim 8, wherein the filaments are selected from the group consisting of natural filaments and synthetic filaments. 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the natural filaments are selected from the group consisting of sisal, cotton, hemp, flax, alpaca, camel, llama, finn, wool, bamboo, fiber, corn husk, linen, yute, ocote, or Sansevieria trifasciata natural filaments and combinations thereof. 18. The method of claim 16, wherein the synthetic filaments are selected from the group consisting of carbon, aramid, nylon, polyester, polymer, optic fibers and combinations thereof. 19. The method of claim 8, wherein the molded product is formed manually. 20. The method of claim 8 further comprising the step of vulcanizing or drying the molded product through the application of heat. | A polymer filament molded product and a method of making a filament network that includes coating filaments with a latex polymer and shaping the filaments into a molded product; one in which a polymer is shaped and molded into a larger filament network. The molded products can be objects for apparel, home and garden, furnishings, health care, engineering, industrial and consumer goods. The molded filament mesh is “fractal” in nature because it is a filament interconnected network at the molecular scale and at the scale of the molded product. The natural tendency of the long molecule filaments to be an entangled structure is maintained.1. A molded product comprising:
an interconnected network of filaments that includes one or more of a plurality of filaments entangled within the interconnected network, wherein the interconnected network is coated with an emulsion of polymer molecules in an aqueous medium and dried to form a network of polymer filaments; a mold; and the network of polymer filaments is at least one of affixed to the mold to create the molded product or shaped to the mold to create the molded product. 2. The molded product of claim 1, wherein the emulsion is latex rubber and the aqueous medium includes at least a portion of water. 3. The molded product of claim 2, wherein the latex rubber is either pre-vulcanized or includes a vulcanizing agent. 4. The molded product of claim 1, wherein the network of filaments are coated with the emulsion of polymer molecules by at least one of a dipping, a spraying, a brushing, or a rolling. 5. The molded product of claim 1, wherein the filaments are selected from the group consisting of sisal, cotton, silk, hemp, flax, alpaca, camel, llama, firm, wool, bamboo, corn husk, linen, yute, ocote, Sansevieria trifasciata, carbon, aramid, polymer, optic fiber and combinations thereof. 6. The molded product of claim 1, wherein the molded product is selected from the group consisting of a shoe, a hat, a plant pot, a lamp shade, a basket, a house, an animal shelter, a boat, a bracelet, a chair, a cell phone cover, a hair band, a jacket, clothing, jewelry, a belt, and an eyeglass frame. 7. The molded product of claim 1 further comprising at least one additive selected from the group consisting a pigment, a portion of a tree bark, a deodorant, an anti-oxidant, zinc oxide, stearic acid, fire retardant and combinations thereof. 8. A method of preparing a molded product of a network of polymer coated filaments, the method comprising the steps of:
arranging one or more of a plurality filaments to form an interconnected network of filaments, wherein the plurality of filaments are entangled within the interconnected network in a loose configuration which allows air circulation between at least two or more of the filaments; coating the network of filaments with an emulsion of polymer molecules in an aqueous medium to form a coated network; drying the coated network to form a network of polymer coated filaments; and shaping the network of polymer coated filaments to form a molded product. 9. The method of claim 8 further comprising the step of providing a substrate having a first face and a second face, wherein the network of filaments are arranged on either the first face or the second face of the substrate. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the substrate is selected from a plastic sheet, a plastic mesh, and metal foil. 11. The method of claim 8, wherein the emulsion is latex rubber and the aqueous medium includes a portion of water. 12. The method of claim 11, wherein the latex rubber is pre-vulcanized. 13. The method of claim 11, wherein the latex rubber includes a vulcanizing agent. 14. The method of claim 11, wherein the latex rubber further includes at least one additive selected from the group consisting of a pigment, a portion of tree bark, a deodorant, an anti-oxidant, zinc oxide, stearic acid, fire retardant and combinations thereof. 15. The method of claim 8, wherein the network of polymer coated filaments are coated with a powder selected from the group consisting of corn starch, wheat starch, calcium carbonate, ground wood, ground coal, ash, ground leaves, ground seeds, ground plants, a pigment, a polymer, polyacrylamide and combinations thereof. 16. The method of claim 8, wherein the filaments are selected from the group consisting of natural filaments and synthetic filaments. 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the natural filaments are selected from the group consisting of sisal, cotton, hemp, flax, alpaca, camel, llama, finn, wool, bamboo, fiber, corn husk, linen, yute, ocote, or Sansevieria trifasciata natural filaments and combinations thereof. 18. The method of claim 16, wherein the synthetic filaments are selected from the group consisting of carbon, aramid, nylon, polyester, polymer, optic fibers and combinations thereof. 19. The method of claim 8, wherein the molded product is formed manually. 20. The method of claim 8 further comprising the step of vulcanizing or drying the molded product through the application of heat. | 1,700 |
4,064 | 15,204,602 | 1,725 | An apparatus and a method for gasifying carbon-containing materials in which the material for gasification and oxygen, usually in the form of air, are supplied to a gas generator where the gasification takes place in a fixed bed reactor. The product gas is drawn off via a product gas line and introduced into a hot gas filter. A filter, preferably provided with filter candles, removes solids such as particles not yet gasified, ash and foreign bodies, while clean gas passes through and is taken off via a clean gas line. An outlet is provided in the bottom region of the hot gas filter to remove residual solids. The hot gas filter is supplied through a line with oxygen, preferably in the form of air, in its middle height region, between the filter bottom and the outlet. | 1.-3. (canceled) 4. An apparatus for gasifying carbon-containing material, comprising:
a gas generator; the gas generator having an upper region, a middle region, and a lower region; wherein the carbon-containing material is supplied to the upper region of the gas generator, oxygen is supplied to the middle region of the gas generator, and the carbon-containing material is largely gasified to a product gas in a fixed bed reactor in the lower region of the gas generator; and a hot gas filter, wherein the hot gas filter receives the product gas from the gas generator via a product gas line coupled to a lowermost region of the gas generator and passes the product gas through a filter assembly to yield a clean gas; the hot gas filter further including a solids outlet in a bottom region of the hot gas filter for taking off residual solids removed from the product gas by the filter assembly; wherein oxygen is supplied via a gas line to a middle region of the hot gas filter between the filter assembly and the solids outlet. 5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein oxygen is supplied to the middle region of the gas generator in the form of air. 6. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the carbon-containing material includes wood. 7. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the filter assembly includes one or more filter candles. 8. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the filter assembly is configured to remove solid particles not yet gasified, ash, and foreign bodies. 9. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein oxygen is supplied to the middle region of the hot gas filter in the form of air. 10. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the oxygen supplied to the middle region of the hot gas causes an additional gasification of constituents of the carbon-containing material that were not yet gasified. 11. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein a draft in the product gas line is sufficiently strong that particles not gasified in the gas generator are transported substantially into the hot gas filter. 12. A method for gasifying a carbon-containing material, comprising:
adding a carbon-containing material to a gas generator; adding oxygen to the gas generator; at least partially gasifying the carbon-containing material in the gas generator to yield a product gas stream; supplying the product gas stream to a hot gas filter having a filter assembly; and supplying oxygen to the hot gas filter prior to the filter assembly so that a further gasification of the product gas stream occurs. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein supplying oxygen to the hot gas filter includes supplying air to the hot gas filter. 14. The method of claim 12, wherein supplying the product gas stream to the hot gas filter includes supplying the product gas line to the hot gas filter with sufficient draft that particles not gasified in the gas generator are transported substantially into the hot gas filter. | An apparatus and a method for gasifying carbon-containing materials in which the material for gasification and oxygen, usually in the form of air, are supplied to a gas generator where the gasification takes place in a fixed bed reactor. The product gas is drawn off via a product gas line and introduced into a hot gas filter. A filter, preferably provided with filter candles, removes solids such as particles not yet gasified, ash and foreign bodies, while clean gas passes through and is taken off via a clean gas line. An outlet is provided in the bottom region of the hot gas filter to remove residual solids. The hot gas filter is supplied through a line with oxygen, preferably in the form of air, in its middle height region, between the filter bottom and the outlet.1.-3. (canceled) 4. An apparatus for gasifying carbon-containing material, comprising:
a gas generator; the gas generator having an upper region, a middle region, and a lower region; wherein the carbon-containing material is supplied to the upper region of the gas generator, oxygen is supplied to the middle region of the gas generator, and the carbon-containing material is largely gasified to a product gas in a fixed bed reactor in the lower region of the gas generator; and a hot gas filter, wherein the hot gas filter receives the product gas from the gas generator via a product gas line coupled to a lowermost region of the gas generator and passes the product gas through a filter assembly to yield a clean gas; the hot gas filter further including a solids outlet in a bottom region of the hot gas filter for taking off residual solids removed from the product gas by the filter assembly; wherein oxygen is supplied via a gas line to a middle region of the hot gas filter between the filter assembly and the solids outlet. 5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein oxygen is supplied to the middle region of the gas generator in the form of air. 6. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the carbon-containing material includes wood. 7. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the filter assembly includes one or more filter candles. 8. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the filter assembly is configured to remove solid particles not yet gasified, ash, and foreign bodies. 9. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein oxygen is supplied to the middle region of the hot gas filter in the form of air. 10. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the oxygen supplied to the middle region of the hot gas causes an additional gasification of constituents of the carbon-containing material that were not yet gasified. 11. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein a draft in the product gas line is sufficiently strong that particles not gasified in the gas generator are transported substantially into the hot gas filter. 12. A method for gasifying a carbon-containing material, comprising:
adding a carbon-containing material to a gas generator; adding oxygen to the gas generator; at least partially gasifying the carbon-containing material in the gas generator to yield a product gas stream; supplying the product gas stream to a hot gas filter having a filter assembly; and supplying oxygen to the hot gas filter prior to the filter assembly so that a further gasification of the product gas stream occurs. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein supplying oxygen to the hot gas filter includes supplying air to the hot gas filter. 14. The method of claim 12, wherein supplying the product gas stream to the hot gas filter includes supplying the product gas line to the hot gas filter with sufficient draft that particles not gasified in the gas generator are transported substantially into the hot gas filter. | 1,700 |
4,065 | 14,408,635 | 1,792 | A capsule for use in a brewing device is provided, comprising a body part, which defines a cavity and which has a flange, a lid which is attached to the flange and tea material enclosed within the capsule, characterized in that the shape of the flange is defined by two intersecting circular arcs when viewed from above. A brewing device which comprises a capsule holder for receiving the capsule is also provided, the capsule holder comprising a sidewall which is circular when viewed from above and which has an upper rim, a shelf on at least part of the inside of the sidewall, a filter and an openable and closable passage on the opposite side of the filter from the upper rim. A method of preparing a tea-based beverage in the brewing device using the capsule is also provided. | 1. A capsule (30) for use in a brewing device, the capsule comprising:
a body part (31), which defines a cavity (35) and which has a flange (33), a lid (32) which is attached to the flange (33), and tea material (36) enclosed within the capsule, characterized in that the shape of the flange is defined by two intersecting circular arcs. 2. A capsule according to claim 1 wherein the ratio of the longest diameter of the flange to the shortest diameter of the flange is from 1.2:1 to 1.5:1. 3. A capsule according to claim 1 or claim 2 wherein the cavity has a generally circular cross-section. 4. A capsule according to any of claims 1 to 3 wherein the volume of the cavity is from 10 to 24 cm3, preferably 12 to 19 cm3. 5. A capsule according to of claims 1 to 4 wherein the depth of the cavity is from 10 to 20 mm and the diameter of the cavity is from 30 to 45 mm. 6. A capsule according to any of claims 1 to 5 wherein the shape of the lid substantially matches the shape of the flange. 7. A capsule according to any of claims 1 to 6 wherein the lid is defined by two intersecting circular arcs with truncated ends (38). 8. A capsule according to claim 7 wherein the length of the lid between the two truncated ends is from 47 to 58 mm, and the maximum width of the lid is from 45 to 50 mm. 9. A capsule according to any of claims 1 to 8 wherein the lid comprises metallic foil, preferably a laminate of aluminium foil and polyethylene. 10. A brewing device (1) comprising
an infusion chamber (10) with a bottom rim (12) which defines an opening; a capsule holder (20) for receiving a capsule (30), the capsule holder comprising a sidewall (24) which is circular when viewed from above and which has an upper rim (23), a shelf (28) on at least part of the inside of the sidewall, a filter (25) and an openable and closable passage (29) on the opposite side of the filter from the upper rim; means for moving the capsule holder and/or the infusion chamber so that the upper rim (23) of the capsule holder is connected to the bottom rim (24) of the infusion chamber; means (42) for introducing liquid into the capsule so that the liquid and tea material can mix and flow into the infusion chamber so as to brew a beverage; and a valve (21) for opening the passage in the capsule holder to allow the beverage to flow from the infusion chamber through the filter and out through the passage. 11. A device according to claim 10 wherein there are members (71) on the shelf which abut the flange of the capsule and thereby locate the capsule in the intended position and/or an intended orientation. 12. A device according to claim 10 or 11 wherein the capsule holder comprises a separable receptacle (70) and a strainer (72) in which the filter (25) is situated. 13. A capsule according to any of claims 1 to 9 wherein the circular arcs have substantially the same radius as the capsule holder. 14. A method of preparing a tea-based beverage in a brewing device according to any of claims 10 to 12, the method comprising the steps of:
a) inserting a capsule (30) according to any of claims 1 to 9 into the capsule holder (20);
b) connecting the upper rim (23) of the capsule holder (20) to the bottom rim (12) of the infusion chamber (10);
c) introducing liquid into the capsule (30) and releasing the tea material from the capsule so that the liquid and tea material mix and flow into the infusion chamber (10) so as to brew the beverage;
d) after brewing has taken place, opening the passage (29) in the capsule holder (20) to allow the beverage to flow from the infusion chamber (10) through the filter (25) and out through the passage. 15. Use of a capsule according to any of claims 1 to 9 for preparing a beverage. 16. A multipack containing a plurality of capsules according to any of claims 1 to 9. | A capsule for use in a brewing device is provided, comprising a body part, which defines a cavity and which has a flange, a lid which is attached to the flange and tea material enclosed within the capsule, characterized in that the shape of the flange is defined by two intersecting circular arcs when viewed from above. A brewing device which comprises a capsule holder for receiving the capsule is also provided, the capsule holder comprising a sidewall which is circular when viewed from above and which has an upper rim, a shelf on at least part of the inside of the sidewall, a filter and an openable and closable passage on the opposite side of the filter from the upper rim. A method of preparing a tea-based beverage in the brewing device using the capsule is also provided.1. A capsule (30) for use in a brewing device, the capsule comprising:
a body part (31), which defines a cavity (35) and which has a flange (33), a lid (32) which is attached to the flange (33), and tea material (36) enclosed within the capsule, characterized in that the shape of the flange is defined by two intersecting circular arcs. 2. A capsule according to claim 1 wherein the ratio of the longest diameter of the flange to the shortest diameter of the flange is from 1.2:1 to 1.5:1. 3. A capsule according to claim 1 or claim 2 wherein the cavity has a generally circular cross-section. 4. A capsule according to any of claims 1 to 3 wherein the volume of the cavity is from 10 to 24 cm3, preferably 12 to 19 cm3. 5. A capsule according to of claims 1 to 4 wherein the depth of the cavity is from 10 to 20 mm and the diameter of the cavity is from 30 to 45 mm. 6. A capsule according to any of claims 1 to 5 wherein the shape of the lid substantially matches the shape of the flange. 7. A capsule according to any of claims 1 to 6 wherein the lid is defined by two intersecting circular arcs with truncated ends (38). 8. A capsule according to claim 7 wherein the length of the lid between the two truncated ends is from 47 to 58 mm, and the maximum width of the lid is from 45 to 50 mm. 9. A capsule according to any of claims 1 to 8 wherein the lid comprises metallic foil, preferably a laminate of aluminium foil and polyethylene. 10. A brewing device (1) comprising
an infusion chamber (10) with a bottom rim (12) which defines an opening; a capsule holder (20) for receiving a capsule (30), the capsule holder comprising a sidewall (24) which is circular when viewed from above and which has an upper rim (23), a shelf (28) on at least part of the inside of the sidewall, a filter (25) and an openable and closable passage (29) on the opposite side of the filter from the upper rim; means for moving the capsule holder and/or the infusion chamber so that the upper rim (23) of the capsule holder is connected to the bottom rim (24) of the infusion chamber; means (42) for introducing liquid into the capsule so that the liquid and tea material can mix and flow into the infusion chamber so as to brew a beverage; and a valve (21) for opening the passage in the capsule holder to allow the beverage to flow from the infusion chamber through the filter and out through the passage. 11. A device according to claim 10 wherein there are members (71) on the shelf which abut the flange of the capsule and thereby locate the capsule in the intended position and/or an intended orientation. 12. A device according to claim 10 or 11 wherein the capsule holder comprises a separable receptacle (70) and a strainer (72) in which the filter (25) is situated. 13. A capsule according to any of claims 1 to 9 wherein the circular arcs have substantially the same radius as the capsule holder. 14. A method of preparing a tea-based beverage in a brewing device according to any of claims 10 to 12, the method comprising the steps of:
a) inserting a capsule (30) according to any of claims 1 to 9 into the capsule holder (20);
b) connecting the upper rim (23) of the capsule holder (20) to the bottom rim (12) of the infusion chamber (10);
c) introducing liquid into the capsule (30) and releasing the tea material from the capsule so that the liquid and tea material mix and flow into the infusion chamber (10) so as to brew the beverage;
d) after brewing has taken place, opening the passage (29) in the capsule holder (20) to allow the beverage to flow from the infusion chamber (10) through the filter (25) and out through the passage. 15. Use of a capsule according to any of claims 1 to 9 for preparing a beverage. 16. A multipack containing a plurality of capsules according to any of claims 1 to 9. | 1,700 |
4,066 | 14,889,049 | 1,793 | The present invention relates a powderous formulation comprising vitamin E, which can be produced easily and which can be used in many fields of application, but mainly in beverages. | 1. Powderous composition comprising
(i) up to 25 wt-%, based on the total weight of the powderous composition, of dl α tocopherol acetate, and (ii) 20-50 wt-%, based on the total weight of the powderous composition, of at least one maltodextrin having a DE of <20, and (iii) 20-50 wt-%, based on the total weight of the powderous composition, of at least one modified polysaccharide, and (iv) at least 5 wt-%, based on the total weight of the powderous composition, of at least one polyoxyethylene sorbitan monofatty acid ester. 2. Powderous composition according to claim 1, wherein the maltodextrin has a DE<18. 3. Powderous composition according to claim 1, wherein the maltodextrin is from a corn source or pea source, preferably from a pea source. 4. Powderous composition according to claim 1, wherein the modified polysaccharide is modified starch. 5. Powderous composition according to claim 1, wherein the modified polysaccharide is of formula (I)
wherein St is a starch, R is an alkylene group and R′ is a hydrophobic group. 6. Powderous composition according to claim 1, wherein the modified polysaccharide is starch sodium octenyl succinate. 7. Powderous composition according to claim 1, wherein the polyoxyethylene sorbitan monofatty acid ester chosen from the group consisting of polyoxyethylene(20) sorbitan monolaurate, poly-oxyethylene(20) sorbitan-monopalmitate, polyoxyethylene(20) sorbitan monostearate and polyoxyethylene(20) sorbitan monooleate, preferably polyoxyethylen(20)-sorbitan-monooleate. 8. Powderous composition according to claim 1, wherein the average inner particle size (inner phase) is less than 150 nm, preferably less than 120 nm, more preferably 70 nm-110 nm. 9. Powderous composition according to claim 1, comprising 5 to 25 wt-%, based on the total weight of the powderous composition, of dl α tocopherol acetate, preferably 10-20 wt-%. 10. Powderous composition according to claim 1, comprising 25-45 wt-%, based on the total weight of the powderous composition, of at least one maltodextrin having a DE of <20. 11. Powderous composition according to claim 1, comprising 25-45 wt-%, based on the total weight of the powderous composition, of at least one modified polysaccharide. 12. Powderous composition according to claim 1, comprising 5-20 wt-%, based on the total weight of the powderous composition, of at least one polyoxyethylene sorbitan monofatty acid ester. 13. Powderous composition according to claim 1, wherein the powderous composition is spray dried. 14. Process of production of any of the powderous compositions according to claim 1, using spray drying technology. 15. Use of a powderous composition according to claim 1 in a liquid formulation, preferably a beverage. 16. A liquid formulation comprising at least one of the powderous composition according to claim 1. | The present invention relates a powderous formulation comprising vitamin E, which can be produced easily and which can be used in many fields of application, but mainly in beverages.1. Powderous composition comprising
(i) up to 25 wt-%, based on the total weight of the powderous composition, of dl α tocopherol acetate, and (ii) 20-50 wt-%, based on the total weight of the powderous composition, of at least one maltodextrin having a DE of <20, and (iii) 20-50 wt-%, based on the total weight of the powderous composition, of at least one modified polysaccharide, and (iv) at least 5 wt-%, based on the total weight of the powderous composition, of at least one polyoxyethylene sorbitan monofatty acid ester. 2. Powderous composition according to claim 1, wherein the maltodextrin has a DE<18. 3. Powderous composition according to claim 1, wherein the maltodextrin is from a corn source or pea source, preferably from a pea source. 4. Powderous composition according to claim 1, wherein the modified polysaccharide is modified starch. 5. Powderous composition according to claim 1, wherein the modified polysaccharide is of formula (I)
wherein St is a starch, R is an alkylene group and R′ is a hydrophobic group. 6. Powderous composition according to claim 1, wherein the modified polysaccharide is starch sodium octenyl succinate. 7. Powderous composition according to claim 1, wherein the polyoxyethylene sorbitan monofatty acid ester chosen from the group consisting of polyoxyethylene(20) sorbitan monolaurate, poly-oxyethylene(20) sorbitan-monopalmitate, polyoxyethylene(20) sorbitan monostearate and polyoxyethylene(20) sorbitan monooleate, preferably polyoxyethylen(20)-sorbitan-monooleate. 8. Powderous composition according to claim 1, wherein the average inner particle size (inner phase) is less than 150 nm, preferably less than 120 nm, more preferably 70 nm-110 nm. 9. Powderous composition according to claim 1, comprising 5 to 25 wt-%, based on the total weight of the powderous composition, of dl α tocopherol acetate, preferably 10-20 wt-%. 10. Powderous composition according to claim 1, comprising 25-45 wt-%, based on the total weight of the powderous composition, of at least one maltodextrin having a DE of <20. 11. Powderous composition according to claim 1, comprising 25-45 wt-%, based on the total weight of the powderous composition, of at least one modified polysaccharide. 12. Powderous composition according to claim 1, comprising 5-20 wt-%, based on the total weight of the powderous composition, of at least one polyoxyethylene sorbitan monofatty acid ester. 13. Powderous composition according to claim 1, wherein the powderous composition is spray dried. 14. Process of production of any of the powderous compositions according to claim 1, using spray drying technology. 15. Use of a powderous composition according to claim 1 in a liquid formulation, preferably a beverage. 16. A liquid formulation comprising at least one of the powderous composition according to claim 1. | 1,700 |
4,067 | 14,367,648 | 1,791 | The present disclosure relates to dough and dough-based food products having a unique appearance and texture. In a general embodiment, a dough is provided and includes at least one enzyme having an enzyme activity level sufficient to provide the dough with at least one characteristic selected from the group consisting of a water absorption ranging from about 58% to about 64%, a fermentation after about 90 minutes, retention of gas cells after sizing and/or baking the dough, good viscoelastic properties after baking the dough, or combinations thereof. The dough may also include the use of a specifically sourced malted barley flour at a level that is not recommended by the baking industry and/or processing parameters that reduce the fermentation time of the dough. Methods for making a dough are also provided. | 1. A dough comprising:
at least one enzyme comprising an enzyme activity level from about 80° Litner to about 110° Litner, wherein the enzyme level provides the dough with at least one characteristic selected from the group consisting of a water absorption ranging from about 58% to about 64%, a fermentation time from about 80 to about 100 minutes, retention of gas cells after sizing the dough, and combinations thereof; and the dough is not baked. 2. The dough according to claim 1, wherein the water absorption is about 60%. 3. The dough according to claim 1, wherein the fermentation time is about 90 minutes. 4. A dough comprising:
at least one enzyme comprising an enzyme activity level from about 80° Litner to about 110° Litner, wherein the enzyme level provides the dough with at least one characteristic selected from the group consisting of retention of gas cells after sizing and/or baking the dough, good viscoelastic properties after baking the dough, and combinations thereof; and the dough is a baked dough. 5. The dough according to claim 4, wherein the good viscoelastic properties of the dough allow the dough to flow and to maintain a shape without deforming to an original shape or shrinking. 6. The dough according to claim 1, wherein the dough comprises malted barley flour in an amount greater than 1% to about 5% by flour weight. 7. The dough according to claim 1, wherein the at least one enzyme is selected from the group consisting of α-amylase, β-amylase, γ-amylase, protease, and combinations thereof. 8. The dough according to claim 1, wherein the at least one enzyme comprises an enzyme activity level of about 95° Litner. 9. A dough comprising:
malted barley flour in an amount greater than 1% to about 5% by flour weight, wherein the dough is selected from the group consisting of white bread dough, hearth bread dough, dark bread dough, sweet bread dough, roll dough, cracker dough, bagel dough, biscuit dough, pizza dough, whole grain dough, flat bread dough, pita dough, and combinations thereof. 10. The dough according to claim 9, wherein the malted barley flour comprises at least one enzyme selected from the group consisting of α-amylase, β-amylase, γ-amylase, protease, and combinations thereof. 11. The dough according to claim 10, wherein the at least one enzyme comprises an enzyme activity level from about 80° Litner to about 110° Litner. 12. A method of making a dough-based food product, the method comprising:
mixing a dough having malted barley flour in an amount greater than 1% to about 5.0% by flour weight, wherein the dough is selected from the group consisting of white bread dough, hearth bread dough, dark bread dough, sweet bread dough, roll dough, cracker dough, bagel dough, biscuit dough, pizza dough, whole grain dough, flat bread dough, pita dough, and combinations thereof; fermenting the dough for an amount of time between about 60 and about 120 minutes; and baking the dough to form the dough-based food product. 13. The method according to claim 12, wherein the malted barley flour comprises at least one enzyme selected from the group consisting of α-amylase, β-amylase, γ-amylase, protease, and combinations thereof. 14. The method according to claim 13, wherein the at least one enzyme comprises an enzyme activity level from about 80° Litner to about 110° Litner. 15. The method according to claim 12, wherein the dough is baked at an oven temperature from about 300° F. to about 800° F. 16. The method according to claim 12 comprising at least one step selected from the group consisting of sizing the dough into a dough billet after fermenting the dough, proofing the dough after sizing the dough, applying a dusting flour to the dough after pressing the dough, packaging the dough-based food product, and combinations thereof. 17. The dough according to claim 4, wherein the dough comprises malted barley flour in an amount greater than 1% to about 5% by flour weight. 18. The dough according to claim 4, wherein the at least one enzyme is selected from the group consisting of α-amylase, β-amylase, γ-amylase, protease, and combinations thereof. 19. The dough according to claim 4, wherein the at least one enzyme comprises an enzyme activity level of about 95° Litner. | The present disclosure relates to dough and dough-based food products having a unique appearance and texture. In a general embodiment, a dough is provided and includes at least one enzyme having an enzyme activity level sufficient to provide the dough with at least one characteristic selected from the group consisting of a water absorption ranging from about 58% to about 64%, a fermentation after about 90 minutes, retention of gas cells after sizing and/or baking the dough, good viscoelastic properties after baking the dough, or combinations thereof. The dough may also include the use of a specifically sourced malted barley flour at a level that is not recommended by the baking industry and/or processing parameters that reduce the fermentation time of the dough. Methods for making a dough are also provided.1. A dough comprising:
at least one enzyme comprising an enzyme activity level from about 80° Litner to about 110° Litner, wherein the enzyme level provides the dough with at least one characteristic selected from the group consisting of a water absorption ranging from about 58% to about 64%, a fermentation time from about 80 to about 100 minutes, retention of gas cells after sizing the dough, and combinations thereof; and the dough is not baked. 2. The dough according to claim 1, wherein the water absorption is about 60%. 3. The dough according to claim 1, wherein the fermentation time is about 90 minutes. 4. A dough comprising:
at least one enzyme comprising an enzyme activity level from about 80° Litner to about 110° Litner, wherein the enzyme level provides the dough with at least one characteristic selected from the group consisting of retention of gas cells after sizing and/or baking the dough, good viscoelastic properties after baking the dough, and combinations thereof; and the dough is a baked dough. 5. The dough according to claim 4, wherein the good viscoelastic properties of the dough allow the dough to flow and to maintain a shape without deforming to an original shape or shrinking. 6. The dough according to claim 1, wherein the dough comprises malted barley flour in an amount greater than 1% to about 5% by flour weight. 7. The dough according to claim 1, wherein the at least one enzyme is selected from the group consisting of α-amylase, β-amylase, γ-amylase, protease, and combinations thereof. 8. The dough according to claim 1, wherein the at least one enzyme comprises an enzyme activity level of about 95° Litner. 9. A dough comprising:
malted barley flour in an amount greater than 1% to about 5% by flour weight, wherein the dough is selected from the group consisting of white bread dough, hearth bread dough, dark bread dough, sweet bread dough, roll dough, cracker dough, bagel dough, biscuit dough, pizza dough, whole grain dough, flat bread dough, pita dough, and combinations thereof. 10. The dough according to claim 9, wherein the malted barley flour comprises at least one enzyme selected from the group consisting of α-amylase, β-amylase, γ-amylase, protease, and combinations thereof. 11. The dough according to claim 10, wherein the at least one enzyme comprises an enzyme activity level from about 80° Litner to about 110° Litner. 12. A method of making a dough-based food product, the method comprising:
mixing a dough having malted barley flour in an amount greater than 1% to about 5.0% by flour weight, wherein the dough is selected from the group consisting of white bread dough, hearth bread dough, dark bread dough, sweet bread dough, roll dough, cracker dough, bagel dough, biscuit dough, pizza dough, whole grain dough, flat bread dough, pita dough, and combinations thereof; fermenting the dough for an amount of time between about 60 and about 120 minutes; and baking the dough to form the dough-based food product. 13. The method according to claim 12, wherein the malted barley flour comprises at least one enzyme selected from the group consisting of α-amylase, β-amylase, γ-amylase, protease, and combinations thereof. 14. The method according to claim 13, wherein the at least one enzyme comprises an enzyme activity level from about 80° Litner to about 110° Litner. 15. The method according to claim 12, wherein the dough is baked at an oven temperature from about 300° F. to about 800° F. 16. The method according to claim 12 comprising at least one step selected from the group consisting of sizing the dough into a dough billet after fermenting the dough, proofing the dough after sizing the dough, applying a dusting flour to the dough after pressing the dough, packaging the dough-based food product, and combinations thereof. 17. The dough according to claim 4, wherein the dough comprises malted barley flour in an amount greater than 1% to about 5% by flour weight. 18. The dough according to claim 4, wherein the at least one enzyme is selected from the group consisting of α-amylase, β-amylase, γ-amylase, protease, and combinations thereof. 19. The dough according to claim 4, wherein the at least one enzyme comprises an enzyme activity level of about 95° Litner. | 1,700 |
4,068 | 14,291,807 | 1,716 | Embodiments of methods and apparatus for improving gas flow in a substrate processing chamber are provided herein. In some embodiments, a substrate processing chamber includes: a chamber body and a chamber lid defining an interior volume; a substrate support disposed within the interior volume and having a support surface to support a substrate; a gas passageway disposed in the lid opposite the substrate support to supply a gas mixture to the interior volume, the gas passageway including a first portion and a second portion; a first gas inlet disposed in the first portion to supply a first gas to the first portion of the gas passageway; and a second gas inlet disposed in the second portion to supply a second gas to the second portion. | 1. A substrate processing chamber, comprising:
a chamber body and a chamber lid defining an interior volume; a substrate support disposed within the interior volume and having a support surface to support a substrate; a gas passageway disposed in the lid opposite the substrate support to supply a gas mixture to the interior volume, the gas passageway including a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion has an inner sidewall disposed at a first angle with respect to the support surface of the substrate support, and wherein the second portion has an inner sidewall disposed at a second angle with respect to the support surface, wherein the second angle is less than the first angle; a first gas inlet disposed in the first portion to supply a first gas to the first portion of the gas passageway; and a second gas inlet disposed in the second portion to supply a second gas to the second portion. 2. The substrate processing chamber of claim 1, wherein the first portion is straight. 3. The substrate processing chamber of claim 1, wherein the first gas inlet includes a plurality of gas inlets. 4. The substrate processing chamber of claim 1, wherein the second gas inlet is a single gas inlet. 5. The substrate processing chamber of claim 1, wherein the second gas inlet is coupled to a precursor gas source. 6. The substrate processing chamber of claim 1, wherein a transition from the first portion to the second portion is gradual. 7. The substrate processing chamber of claim 1, wherein the second gas inlet is disposed at any point along a length of the second portion. 8. The substrate processing chamber of claim 1, wherein a diameter of the first portion is about 0.5 to about 0.9 inches. 9. The substrate processing chamber of claim 1, wherein the second portion is defined by a radius of about 0.25 to about 3 inches. 10. The substrate processing chamber of claim 1, wherein the gas passageway further comprises a third portion disposed adjacent the second portion opposite the first portion, wherein the third portion has an inner sidewall disposed at a third angle with respect to the support surface, wherein the third angle is less than the second angle. 11. The substrate processing chamber of claim 10, wherein the third angle is about 2 to about 12 degrees. 12. A substrate processing chamber, comprising:
an interior volume; a substrate support disposed within the interior volume; a gas passageway disposed above the substrate support to supply a gas mixture to the interior volume, the gas passageway including a straight portion and a divergent portion; a plurality of first gas inlets to supply at least one gas to the straight portion at a first flow rate; and a second gas inlet to supply a second gas to the divergent portion at a second flow rate. 13. The substrate processing chamber of claim 12, wherein a transition from the straight portion to the divergent portion is gradual. 14. The substrate processing chamber of claim 12, wherein the second gas inlet is disposed at any point along a length of the divergent portion. 15. The substrate processing chamber of claim 12, wherein a diameter of the straight portion is about 0.5 to about 0.9 inches. 16. The substrate processing chamber of claim 12, wherein the divergent portion includes a second portion defined by a radius of about 0.25 to about 3 inches. 17. A method of processing a substrate in a process chamber, comprising:
supplying a first gas to a first portion of a gas passageway disposed above a substrate support via a first gas inlet at a first flow rate; supplying a second gas to a second portion of the gas passageway via a second gas inlet at a second flow rate, wherein the second portion of the gas passageway is closer to the substrate support than the first portion; mixing the first and second gases in the second portion to create a gas mixture; and supplying the gas mixture to an inner volume of the process chamber. 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the first gas comprises a gas mixture including a precursor gas, and wherein the second gas comprises the precursor gas. 19. The method of claim 18, wherein the precursor gas is one or more of titanium tetrachloride (TiCl4) or ammonia (NH3). 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the precursor gas is titanium tetrachloride (TiCl4) and a flow rate ratio of the second flow rate to the first flow rate is about 1:9, or wherein the precursor gas is ammonia (NH3) and the flow rate ratio of the second flow rate to the first flow rate is about 1:3. | Embodiments of methods and apparatus for improving gas flow in a substrate processing chamber are provided herein. In some embodiments, a substrate processing chamber includes: a chamber body and a chamber lid defining an interior volume; a substrate support disposed within the interior volume and having a support surface to support a substrate; a gas passageway disposed in the lid opposite the substrate support to supply a gas mixture to the interior volume, the gas passageway including a first portion and a second portion; a first gas inlet disposed in the first portion to supply a first gas to the first portion of the gas passageway; and a second gas inlet disposed in the second portion to supply a second gas to the second portion.1. A substrate processing chamber, comprising:
a chamber body and a chamber lid defining an interior volume; a substrate support disposed within the interior volume and having a support surface to support a substrate; a gas passageway disposed in the lid opposite the substrate support to supply a gas mixture to the interior volume, the gas passageway including a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion has an inner sidewall disposed at a first angle with respect to the support surface of the substrate support, and wherein the second portion has an inner sidewall disposed at a second angle with respect to the support surface, wherein the second angle is less than the first angle; a first gas inlet disposed in the first portion to supply a first gas to the first portion of the gas passageway; and a second gas inlet disposed in the second portion to supply a second gas to the second portion. 2. The substrate processing chamber of claim 1, wherein the first portion is straight. 3. The substrate processing chamber of claim 1, wherein the first gas inlet includes a plurality of gas inlets. 4. The substrate processing chamber of claim 1, wherein the second gas inlet is a single gas inlet. 5. The substrate processing chamber of claim 1, wherein the second gas inlet is coupled to a precursor gas source. 6. The substrate processing chamber of claim 1, wherein a transition from the first portion to the second portion is gradual. 7. The substrate processing chamber of claim 1, wherein the second gas inlet is disposed at any point along a length of the second portion. 8. The substrate processing chamber of claim 1, wherein a diameter of the first portion is about 0.5 to about 0.9 inches. 9. The substrate processing chamber of claim 1, wherein the second portion is defined by a radius of about 0.25 to about 3 inches. 10. The substrate processing chamber of claim 1, wherein the gas passageway further comprises a third portion disposed adjacent the second portion opposite the first portion, wherein the third portion has an inner sidewall disposed at a third angle with respect to the support surface, wherein the third angle is less than the second angle. 11. The substrate processing chamber of claim 10, wherein the third angle is about 2 to about 12 degrees. 12. A substrate processing chamber, comprising:
an interior volume; a substrate support disposed within the interior volume; a gas passageway disposed above the substrate support to supply a gas mixture to the interior volume, the gas passageway including a straight portion and a divergent portion; a plurality of first gas inlets to supply at least one gas to the straight portion at a first flow rate; and a second gas inlet to supply a second gas to the divergent portion at a second flow rate. 13. The substrate processing chamber of claim 12, wherein a transition from the straight portion to the divergent portion is gradual. 14. The substrate processing chamber of claim 12, wherein the second gas inlet is disposed at any point along a length of the divergent portion. 15. The substrate processing chamber of claim 12, wherein a diameter of the straight portion is about 0.5 to about 0.9 inches. 16. The substrate processing chamber of claim 12, wherein the divergent portion includes a second portion defined by a radius of about 0.25 to about 3 inches. 17. A method of processing a substrate in a process chamber, comprising:
supplying a first gas to a first portion of a gas passageway disposed above a substrate support via a first gas inlet at a first flow rate; supplying a second gas to a second portion of the gas passageway via a second gas inlet at a second flow rate, wherein the second portion of the gas passageway is closer to the substrate support than the first portion; mixing the first and second gases in the second portion to create a gas mixture; and supplying the gas mixture to an inner volume of the process chamber. 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the first gas comprises a gas mixture including a precursor gas, and wherein the second gas comprises the precursor gas. 19. The method of claim 18, wherein the precursor gas is one or more of titanium tetrachloride (TiCl4) or ammonia (NH3). 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the precursor gas is titanium tetrachloride (TiCl4) and a flow rate ratio of the second flow rate to the first flow rate is about 1:9, or wherein the precursor gas is ammonia (NH3) and the flow rate ratio of the second flow rate to the first flow rate is about 1:3. | 1,700 |
4,069 | 14,801,947 | 1,791 | A fermentation apparatus for preserving the aroma of a fermentable beverage is provided. The fermentation apparatus comprises a flow passage fluidly connectable to the headspace located above a fermentable beverage in a fermentation container. A carbon dioxide scrubber in the flow passage receives a headspace fluid mixture comprising at least carbon dioxide gas and an aromatic fluid originating from the fermenting beverage. When the headspace fluid mixture contacts the carbon dioxide scrubber, the carbon dioxide scrubber retains a modified fluid in the flow passage. The modified fluid has a lower carbon dioxide gas concentration and a higher aromatic fluid concentration than the headspace fluid mixture. The flow passage directs the modified fluid back to the headspace to at least partially retain the aromatic fluid in the fermentable beverage in the fermentation container. A method for preserving the aroma of a fermentable beverage is also provided. | 1. A method for preserving the aroma of a fermentable beverage, the method comprising:
fermenting the beverage in a fermentation container to produce a headspace fluid mixture comprising at least carbon dioxide gas and an aromatic fluid in a headspace located above the beverage contained in the fermentation container; permitting the headspace fluid mixture to exit the container into a flow passage; permitting the headspace fluid mixture to flow through the flow passage and into contact with a carbon dioxide scrubber to separate the carbon dioxide gas in the headspace fluid mixture from the aromatic fluid in the headspace fluid mixture by permitting at least a portion of the carbon dioxide gas to exit the flow passage and retaining at least a portion of the aromatic fluid in the flow passage to thereby retain a modified fluid in the flow passage, wherein the modified fluid has a lower carbon dioxide gas concentration and a higher aromatic fluid concentration than the headspace fluid mixture; and permitting the modified fluid remaining in the flow passage after contacting the carbon dioxide scrubber to reenter the headspace to at least partially retain the aromatic fluid in the fermentable beverage in the fermentation container. 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising
a fluid pump in fluid communication with the headspace and the carbon dioxide scrubber to transport the headspace fluid mixture and the modified fluid through the flow passage. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein
the modified fluid comprises a portion of the carbon dioxide gas and the portion of the aromatic fluid in the headspace mixture retained in the flow passage after contacting the carbon dioxide scrubber, and a portion of the modified fluid is permitted to exit the flow passage via a release valve in the flow passage, and the modified fluid remaining in the flow passage is permitted to reenter the headspace. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein
the carbon dioxide scrubber removes from the flow passage substantially all of the carbon dioxide gas that contacts the carbon dioxide scrubber, and the carbon dioxide scrubber retains in the flow passage substantially all of the aromatic fluid that contacts the carbon dioxide scrubber. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein
permitting the headspace fluid mixture to flow through the flow passage into contact with the carbon dioxide scrubber occurs during the entire duration of the fermentation. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein
permitting the headspace fluid mixture to flow through the flow passage into contact with the carbon dioxide scrubber occurs during less than the entire duration of the fermentation. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein
the carbon dioxide scrubber comprises a carbon dioxide selective membrane, and when the headspace fluid mixture contacts the carbon dioxide selective membrane, the carbon dioxide selective membrane permits the carbon dioxide gas in the headspace fluid mixture to pass therethrough and out of the flow passage and retains the aromatic fluid in the headspace fluid mixture in the flow passage. 8. The method of claim 7, wherein
the carbon dioxide selective membrane is a diffusive membrane that permits the carbon dioxide gas to diffuse therethrough and out of the flow passage. 9. The method of claim 7, wherein
a sweep gas is directed across an exterior surface of the carbon dioxide selective membrane located external to the flow passage to facilitate the passage of the carbon dioxide gas through the carbon dioxide selective membrane and out of the flow passage. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein
the carbon dioxide scrubber comprises a carbon dioxide absorber containing a carbon dioxide absorbing material, and when the headspace fluid mixture contacts the carbon dioxide absorbing material, the carbon dioxide absorbing material absorbs the carbon dioxide gas from the headspace fluid mixture. 11. The method of claim 1, wherein the carbon dioxide gas that exits the flow passage via the carbon dioxide scrubber is transferred to a carbon dioxide storage vessel fluidly connected to the carbon dioxide scrubber. 12. A fermentation apparatus for preserving the aroma of a fermentable beverage, the apparatus comprising:
a closure engageable with a fermentation container containing a fermentable beverage, the fermentation container having at least one port; a flow passage coupled to the closure, the flow passage fluidly connectable to the at least one port of the fermentation container when the closure engages the fermentation container to fluidly connect a headspace located above the fermentable beverage in the fermentation container with the flow passage; and a carbon dioxide scrubber in the flow passage, the carbon dioxide scrubber receives from the at least one port a headspace fluid mixture comprising at least carbon dioxide gas and an aromatic fluid originating from the fermenting beverage, wherein when the headspace fluid mixture contacts the carbon dioxide scrubber, the carbon dioxide scrubber permits at least a portion of the carbon dioxide gas to exit the flow passage and retains at least a portion of the aromatic fluid in the flow passage to thereby retain a modified fluid in the flow passage, wherein the modified fluid has a lower carbon dioxide gas concentration and a higher aromatic fluid concentration than the headspace fluid mixture; and the flow passage directs the modified fluid to the at least one port of the fermentation container to direct the modified fluid through the at least one port of the fermentation container to reenter the headspace to at least partially retain the aromatic fluid in the fermentable beverage in the fermentation container. 13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein
the at least one port comprises an exit port and a reentry port, and wherein the flow passage is fluidly connectable to the exit port of the fermentation container when the closure engages the fermentation container to fluidly connect the headspace located above the fermentable beverage in the fermentation container with the flow passage; the carbon dioxide scrubber receives from the exit port the headspace fluid mixture comprising at least carbon dioxide gas and the aromatic fluid originating from the fermenting beverage; and the flow passage directs the modified fluid to the reentry port of the fermentation container to direct the modified fluid through the reentry port of the fermentation container to reenter the headspace to at least partially retain the aromatic fluid in the fermentable beverage in the fermentation container. 14. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein
the carbon dioxide scrubber comprises a carbon dioxide selective membrane to permit the carbon dioxide gas to pass therethrough and out of the flow passage and to retain the aromatic fluid in the flow passage. 15. The apparatus of claim 14, further comprising
a sweep gas directed across an exterior surface of the carbon dioxide selective membrane located external to the flow passage to lower the carbon dioxide partial pressure on an exterior side of the carbon dioxide selective membrane relative to a flow passage side of the carbon dioxide selective membrane, to facilitate the passage of the carbon dioxide gas through the carbon dioxide selective membrane and out of the flow passage. 16. The apparatus of claim 15, further comprising
a negative pressure generator located external to the flow passage to direct the sweep gas across the exterior surface of the carbon dioxide selective membrane and permit decreased total pressure on the exterior surface of the membrane. 17. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein
the carbon dioxide selective membrane is a fixed-site carrier membrane. 18. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein
the carbon dioxide scrubber comprises a carbon dioxide absorber containing a carbon dioxide absorbing material, and the carbon dioxide absorbing material absorbs and removes the carbon dioxide gas from the flow passage. 19. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein
the flow passage comprises a release valve in fluid communication with the headspace, and wherein the release valve is openable to vent a portion of at least one of the headspace fluid mixture and the modified fluid to the external atmosphere. 20. The apparatus of claim 11, further comprising
a fluid pump in fluid communication with the headspace and the carbon dioxide scrubber to transport the headspace fluid mixture and the modified fluid through the flow passage. 21. The apparatus of claim 12, further comprising
an expansion chamber having a flexible wall and containing an expansion gas therein, the expansion chamber being in fluid communication with the flow passage, wherein an interior volume defined by the flexible wall is adjustable to accommodate pressure fluctuations in the flow passage. | A fermentation apparatus for preserving the aroma of a fermentable beverage is provided. The fermentation apparatus comprises a flow passage fluidly connectable to the headspace located above a fermentable beverage in a fermentation container. A carbon dioxide scrubber in the flow passage receives a headspace fluid mixture comprising at least carbon dioxide gas and an aromatic fluid originating from the fermenting beverage. When the headspace fluid mixture contacts the carbon dioxide scrubber, the carbon dioxide scrubber retains a modified fluid in the flow passage. The modified fluid has a lower carbon dioxide gas concentration and a higher aromatic fluid concentration than the headspace fluid mixture. The flow passage directs the modified fluid back to the headspace to at least partially retain the aromatic fluid in the fermentable beverage in the fermentation container. A method for preserving the aroma of a fermentable beverage is also provided.1. A method for preserving the aroma of a fermentable beverage, the method comprising:
fermenting the beverage in a fermentation container to produce a headspace fluid mixture comprising at least carbon dioxide gas and an aromatic fluid in a headspace located above the beverage contained in the fermentation container; permitting the headspace fluid mixture to exit the container into a flow passage; permitting the headspace fluid mixture to flow through the flow passage and into contact with a carbon dioxide scrubber to separate the carbon dioxide gas in the headspace fluid mixture from the aromatic fluid in the headspace fluid mixture by permitting at least a portion of the carbon dioxide gas to exit the flow passage and retaining at least a portion of the aromatic fluid in the flow passage to thereby retain a modified fluid in the flow passage, wherein the modified fluid has a lower carbon dioxide gas concentration and a higher aromatic fluid concentration than the headspace fluid mixture; and permitting the modified fluid remaining in the flow passage after contacting the carbon dioxide scrubber to reenter the headspace to at least partially retain the aromatic fluid in the fermentable beverage in the fermentation container. 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising
a fluid pump in fluid communication with the headspace and the carbon dioxide scrubber to transport the headspace fluid mixture and the modified fluid through the flow passage. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein
the modified fluid comprises a portion of the carbon dioxide gas and the portion of the aromatic fluid in the headspace mixture retained in the flow passage after contacting the carbon dioxide scrubber, and a portion of the modified fluid is permitted to exit the flow passage via a release valve in the flow passage, and the modified fluid remaining in the flow passage is permitted to reenter the headspace. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein
the carbon dioxide scrubber removes from the flow passage substantially all of the carbon dioxide gas that contacts the carbon dioxide scrubber, and the carbon dioxide scrubber retains in the flow passage substantially all of the aromatic fluid that contacts the carbon dioxide scrubber. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein
permitting the headspace fluid mixture to flow through the flow passage into contact with the carbon dioxide scrubber occurs during the entire duration of the fermentation. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein
permitting the headspace fluid mixture to flow through the flow passage into contact with the carbon dioxide scrubber occurs during less than the entire duration of the fermentation. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein
the carbon dioxide scrubber comprises a carbon dioxide selective membrane, and when the headspace fluid mixture contacts the carbon dioxide selective membrane, the carbon dioxide selective membrane permits the carbon dioxide gas in the headspace fluid mixture to pass therethrough and out of the flow passage and retains the aromatic fluid in the headspace fluid mixture in the flow passage. 8. The method of claim 7, wherein
the carbon dioxide selective membrane is a diffusive membrane that permits the carbon dioxide gas to diffuse therethrough and out of the flow passage. 9. The method of claim 7, wherein
a sweep gas is directed across an exterior surface of the carbon dioxide selective membrane located external to the flow passage to facilitate the passage of the carbon dioxide gas through the carbon dioxide selective membrane and out of the flow passage. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein
the carbon dioxide scrubber comprises a carbon dioxide absorber containing a carbon dioxide absorbing material, and when the headspace fluid mixture contacts the carbon dioxide absorbing material, the carbon dioxide absorbing material absorbs the carbon dioxide gas from the headspace fluid mixture. 11. The method of claim 1, wherein the carbon dioxide gas that exits the flow passage via the carbon dioxide scrubber is transferred to a carbon dioxide storage vessel fluidly connected to the carbon dioxide scrubber. 12. A fermentation apparatus for preserving the aroma of a fermentable beverage, the apparatus comprising:
a closure engageable with a fermentation container containing a fermentable beverage, the fermentation container having at least one port; a flow passage coupled to the closure, the flow passage fluidly connectable to the at least one port of the fermentation container when the closure engages the fermentation container to fluidly connect a headspace located above the fermentable beverage in the fermentation container with the flow passage; and a carbon dioxide scrubber in the flow passage, the carbon dioxide scrubber receives from the at least one port a headspace fluid mixture comprising at least carbon dioxide gas and an aromatic fluid originating from the fermenting beverage, wherein when the headspace fluid mixture contacts the carbon dioxide scrubber, the carbon dioxide scrubber permits at least a portion of the carbon dioxide gas to exit the flow passage and retains at least a portion of the aromatic fluid in the flow passage to thereby retain a modified fluid in the flow passage, wherein the modified fluid has a lower carbon dioxide gas concentration and a higher aromatic fluid concentration than the headspace fluid mixture; and the flow passage directs the modified fluid to the at least one port of the fermentation container to direct the modified fluid through the at least one port of the fermentation container to reenter the headspace to at least partially retain the aromatic fluid in the fermentable beverage in the fermentation container. 13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein
the at least one port comprises an exit port and a reentry port, and wherein the flow passage is fluidly connectable to the exit port of the fermentation container when the closure engages the fermentation container to fluidly connect the headspace located above the fermentable beverage in the fermentation container with the flow passage; the carbon dioxide scrubber receives from the exit port the headspace fluid mixture comprising at least carbon dioxide gas and the aromatic fluid originating from the fermenting beverage; and the flow passage directs the modified fluid to the reentry port of the fermentation container to direct the modified fluid through the reentry port of the fermentation container to reenter the headspace to at least partially retain the aromatic fluid in the fermentable beverage in the fermentation container. 14. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein
the carbon dioxide scrubber comprises a carbon dioxide selective membrane to permit the carbon dioxide gas to pass therethrough and out of the flow passage and to retain the aromatic fluid in the flow passage. 15. The apparatus of claim 14, further comprising
a sweep gas directed across an exterior surface of the carbon dioxide selective membrane located external to the flow passage to lower the carbon dioxide partial pressure on an exterior side of the carbon dioxide selective membrane relative to a flow passage side of the carbon dioxide selective membrane, to facilitate the passage of the carbon dioxide gas through the carbon dioxide selective membrane and out of the flow passage. 16. The apparatus of claim 15, further comprising
a negative pressure generator located external to the flow passage to direct the sweep gas across the exterior surface of the carbon dioxide selective membrane and permit decreased total pressure on the exterior surface of the membrane. 17. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein
the carbon dioxide selective membrane is a fixed-site carrier membrane. 18. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein
the carbon dioxide scrubber comprises a carbon dioxide absorber containing a carbon dioxide absorbing material, and the carbon dioxide absorbing material absorbs and removes the carbon dioxide gas from the flow passage. 19. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein
the flow passage comprises a release valve in fluid communication with the headspace, and wherein the release valve is openable to vent a portion of at least one of the headspace fluid mixture and the modified fluid to the external atmosphere. 20. The apparatus of claim 11, further comprising
a fluid pump in fluid communication with the headspace and the carbon dioxide scrubber to transport the headspace fluid mixture and the modified fluid through the flow passage. 21. The apparatus of claim 12, further comprising
an expansion chamber having a flexible wall and containing an expansion gas therein, the expansion chamber being in fluid communication with the flow passage, wherein an interior volume defined by the flexible wall is adjustable to accommodate pressure fluctuations in the flow passage. | 1,700 |
4,070 | 14,774,265 | 1,786 | A multilayer fiber ABA comprising:
A) at least two top layers (layer A) comprising propylene copolymer with ethylene having an ethylene derived units content ranging from 3.5 wt % to 6.5 wt %; a melt flow rate according to ISO 1133 (230° C., 2.16 Kg) comprised between from 0.5 g/10 min to 5 g/10 min; a fraction of polymer soluble in xylene at 25° C. ranging from 10 wt % to 17 wt % based on the total weight of said copolymer: B) at least one core layer (layer B) comprising a high density polyethylene having a density ranging from 0.942 g/cm 3 to 0.958 g/cm 3 ; and having a melt flow rate (MFR measured at 190° C. 5.0 kg) ranging from 0.3 g/10 min to 5 g/10 min. | 1. A multilayer fiber ABA comprising:
A) at least two top layers (layer A) comprising propylene copolymer with ethylene having an ethylene derived units content ranging from 3.5 wt % to 6.5 wt %; a melt flow rate according to ISO 1133 (230° C., 2.16 Kg) ranging from 0.5 g/10 min to 5 g/10 min; a fraction of polymer soluble in xylene at 25° C. ranging from 10 wt % to 17wt % based on the total weight of said copolymer: B) at least one core layer (layer B) comprising a high density polyethylene having a density ranging from 0.942 g/cm3 to 0.958 g/cm3; and having a melt flow rate (MFR measured at 190° C. 5.0 kg) ranging from 0.3 g/10 min to 5 g/10 min. 2. The multilayer fiber according to claim 1, wherein the propylene copolymer with ethylene (A) has an ethylene derived units content ranging from 4.0 wt % to 6.5 wt %. 3. The multilayer fiber according to claim 1, wherein the high density polyethylene (B) has a density ranging from 0.945 g/cm3 to 0.952 g/cm3. 4. The multilayer film according to claim 1, wherein the propylene copolymer with ethylene (A) has a melt flow rate according to ISO 1133 (230° C., 2.16 Kg) ranging from 1.5 g/10 min to 4 g/10 min. 5. The multilayer film according to claim 1, wherein the high density polyethylene (B) has a melt flow rate (MFR measured at 190° C. 5.0 kg) ranging from 1.0 g/10 min to 3.0 g/10 min. 6. The multilayer film according to claim 1, wherein the propylene copolymer A) has a tensile modulus in the range of from 500 to 900 MPa. 7. The multilayer film according to claim 1, wherein the propylene copolymer with ethylene (A) has an ethylene derived units content ranging from 4.0 wt % to 6.5 wt %; the high density polyethylene (B) has a density ranging from 0.945 g/cm3 to 0.952 g/cm3; the propylene copolymer with ethylene (A) has a melt flow rate according to ISO 1133 (230° C., 2.16 Kg) ranging from 1.5 g/10 min to 4 g/10 min; and the high density polyethylene (B) has a melt flow rate (MFR measured at 190° C. 5.0 kg) ranging from 1.0 g/10 min to 3.0 g/10 min. | A multilayer fiber ABA comprising:
A) at least two top layers (layer A) comprising propylene copolymer with ethylene having an ethylene derived units content ranging from 3.5 wt % to 6.5 wt %; a melt flow rate according to ISO 1133 (230° C., 2.16 Kg) comprised between from 0.5 g/10 min to 5 g/10 min; a fraction of polymer soluble in xylene at 25° C. ranging from 10 wt % to 17 wt % based on the total weight of said copolymer: B) at least one core layer (layer B) comprising a high density polyethylene having a density ranging from 0.942 g/cm 3 to 0.958 g/cm 3 ; and having a melt flow rate (MFR measured at 190° C. 5.0 kg) ranging from 0.3 g/10 min to 5 g/10 min.1. A multilayer fiber ABA comprising:
A) at least two top layers (layer A) comprising propylene copolymer with ethylene having an ethylene derived units content ranging from 3.5 wt % to 6.5 wt %; a melt flow rate according to ISO 1133 (230° C., 2.16 Kg) ranging from 0.5 g/10 min to 5 g/10 min; a fraction of polymer soluble in xylene at 25° C. ranging from 10 wt % to 17wt % based on the total weight of said copolymer: B) at least one core layer (layer B) comprising a high density polyethylene having a density ranging from 0.942 g/cm3 to 0.958 g/cm3; and having a melt flow rate (MFR measured at 190° C. 5.0 kg) ranging from 0.3 g/10 min to 5 g/10 min. 2. The multilayer fiber according to claim 1, wherein the propylene copolymer with ethylene (A) has an ethylene derived units content ranging from 4.0 wt % to 6.5 wt %. 3. The multilayer fiber according to claim 1, wherein the high density polyethylene (B) has a density ranging from 0.945 g/cm3 to 0.952 g/cm3. 4. The multilayer film according to claim 1, wherein the propylene copolymer with ethylene (A) has a melt flow rate according to ISO 1133 (230° C., 2.16 Kg) ranging from 1.5 g/10 min to 4 g/10 min. 5. The multilayer film according to claim 1, wherein the high density polyethylene (B) has a melt flow rate (MFR measured at 190° C. 5.0 kg) ranging from 1.0 g/10 min to 3.0 g/10 min. 6. The multilayer film according to claim 1, wherein the propylene copolymer A) has a tensile modulus in the range of from 500 to 900 MPa. 7. The multilayer film according to claim 1, wherein the propylene copolymer with ethylene (A) has an ethylene derived units content ranging from 4.0 wt % to 6.5 wt %; the high density polyethylene (B) has a density ranging from 0.945 g/cm3 to 0.952 g/cm3; the propylene copolymer with ethylene (A) has a melt flow rate according to ISO 1133 (230° C., 2.16 Kg) ranging from 1.5 g/10 min to 4 g/10 min; and the high density polyethylene (B) has a melt flow rate (MFR measured at 190° C. 5.0 kg) ranging from 1.0 g/10 min to 3.0 g/10 min. | 1,700 |
4,071 | 14,945,531 | 1,782 | A covering material for an electric wire contains a polyvinyl chloride. The covering material has a property of a change curve of loss modulus with respect to temperature which shows no peak within a temperature range in a usage environment for the electric wire. | 1. A covering material for an electric wire, the covering material containing a polyvinyl chloride,
wherein the covering material has a change curve of loss modulus with respect to temperature which shows no peak within a temperature range in a usage environment for the electric wire, and wherein 25 to 50 parts by weight of a plasticizer and 2 to 20 parts by weight of a flexible resin with a melt flow rate of 1.0 g/10 min or less are combined with respect to 100 parts by weight of the polyvinyl chloride. 2. The covering material for the electric wire according to claim 1, wherein the polyvinyl chloride has a degree of polymerization of 1400 or more. 3. The covering material for the electric wire according to claim 1, wherein the temperature range in the usage environment for the electric wire is −30° C. to 60° C. 4. The covering material for the electric wire according to claim 1, wherein
the change curve of loss modulus with respect to temperature is obtained by making a dynamic viscoelastic measurement, and the dynamic viscoelastic measurement is made in a way that a specimen with a size of 10×2×1 mm is used under conditions of a temperature in the range of −60° C. to 100° C. and a measurement frequency of 1 Hz in a single cantilever measurement mode. 5. A covered electric wire comprising:
a covering material for an electric wire, the covering material containing a polyvinyl chloride, wherein the covering material has a change curve of loss modulus with respect to temperature which shows no peak within a temperature range in a usage environment for the electric wire, and wherein 25 to 50 parts by weight of a plasticizer and 2 to 20 parts by weight of a flexible resin with a melt flow rate of 1.0 g/10 min or less are combined with respect to 100 parts by weight of the polyvinyl chloride; and a conductor covered with the covering material for the electric wire. | A covering material for an electric wire contains a polyvinyl chloride. The covering material has a property of a change curve of loss modulus with respect to temperature which shows no peak within a temperature range in a usage environment for the electric wire.1. A covering material for an electric wire, the covering material containing a polyvinyl chloride,
wherein the covering material has a change curve of loss modulus with respect to temperature which shows no peak within a temperature range in a usage environment for the electric wire, and wherein 25 to 50 parts by weight of a plasticizer and 2 to 20 parts by weight of a flexible resin with a melt flow rate of 1.0 g/10 min or less are combined with respect to 100 parts by weight of the polyvinyl chloride. 2. The covering material for the electric wire according to claim 1, wherein the polyvinyl chloride has a degree of polymerization of 1400 or more. 3. The covering material for the electric wire according to claim 1, wherein the temperature range in the usage environment for the electric wire is −30° C. to 60° C. 4. The covering material for the electric wire according to claim 1, wherein
the change curve of loss modulus with respect to temperature is obtained by making a dynamic viscoelastic measurement, and the dynamic viscoelastic measurement is made in a way that a specimen with a size of 10×2×1 mm is used under conditions of a temperature in the range of −60° C. to 100° C. and a measurement frequency of 1 Hz in a single cantilever measurement mode. 5. A covered electric wire comprising:
a covering material for an electric wire, the covering material containing a polyvinyl chloride, wherein the covering material has a change curve of loss modulus with respect to temperature which shows no peak within a temperature range in a usage environment for the electric wire, and wherein 25 to 50 parts by weight of a plasticizer and 2 to 20 parts by weight of a flexible resin with a melt flow rate of 1.0 g/10 min or less are combined with respect to 100 parts by weight of the polyvinyl chloride; and a conductor covered with the covering material for the electric wire. | 1,700 |
4,072 | 14,372,324 | 1,792 | Provided is a cooking apparatus, preferably including a plurality of heating plates for contact cooking. The cooking time is determined by selecting a desired degree of cooking of the food. After estimating the surface area occupied by the food on one of the heating plates, said cooking time is calculated on the basis of the desired degree of cooking, the thickness of the food, and the surface area occupied by the food | 1. A method for implementing an apparatus for cooking a food, comprising at least one heating plate for heating the food upon its contact, wherein the method comprises:
storage in a memory of the apparatus of different internal cooking temperatures (X) for the food, to achieve an internal cooking of the food to a greater or lesser degree as then desired by a user, a placing of the food in contact with the heating plate or plates, then, a calculation of a first cooking time (T) for the duly positioned food, as a function of the lowest temperature (X) out of those stored in memory, at the end of said calculated first cooking time (T), an indication to the user, by the apparatus, that the corresponding cooking has been achieved, then: if the user does not remove the food, the application by the apparatus of a calculated second cooking time (T) for the food, as a function of the second in ascending order of said temperatures stored in memory (X), at the end of this calculated second cooking time (T), another indication to the user, by the apparatus, that the corresponding cooking has been achieved, and so on. 2. The method for implementing an apparatus for cooking a food, such as a meat grill, comprising at least one heating plate for heating the food upon its contact, wherein it comprises:
a storage in memory of the apparatus of different internal cooking temperatures (X) for the food, to achieve an internal cooking of the food to a greater or lesser degree, as then desired by a user, a selection by the user of one of said temperatures (X) and a placing of the food in contact with the heating plate or plates, then, a calculation of the cooking time for the food as a function of the selected temperature (X), at the end of the calculated cooking time (T), preferably an indication by the apparatus that the desired cooking has been achieved. 3. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein, during said operation of the apparatus to achieve the desired internal cooking, the following are performed:
a measurement of the thickness (Y) of the food then positioned against said heating plate and/or an estimation of the surface area (Z) occupied by this food on the heating plate, the calculation of the cooking time (T) for the duly positioned food, based:
in addition to the selected cooking temperature (X),
on the thickness (Y) of the food, and/or on the surface area (Z) occupied by the food. 4. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the or each internal cooking temperature value (X) for the food stored in memory of the apparatus is prestored in the factory, before the first operational use of the apparatus. 5. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein, during said operation of the apparatus, the food is positioned between a plurality of said heating plates, on their contacts. 6. The method as claimed in claim 3, wherein the calculation of the cooking time (T) for the food is a function of said surface area (Z) occupied by the food, which is obtained by heating plate temperature measurements. 7. The method as claimed in claim 6, wherein, to estimate the surface area (Z) occupied by the food, there is measured, by at least one temperature sensor and following the placing of the food in contact with the heating plate or plates, the temperature of the or of one of the heating plate(s), and the variation of the measured temperature evolving therefrom is compared to at least one reference threshold. 8. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the cooking time (T) for the food is obtained by a quadratic or linear correlation calculation method. 9. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein it comprises, before the food is placed in contact with the plate or plates, a step (A) of preheating of the apparatus followed by the step (B) of cooking of the food, the start of which is detected by a lowering beyond a predetermined threshold of the temperature of the or of one of the heating plates. 10. The method as claimed in claim 6, wherein the calculation of the cooking time (T) for the food is a function of said surface area (Z) occupied by the food and, to estimate this surface area, a single temperature sensor is used, which, following the placing of the food in contact with the plate or plates, measures the temperature of at least one of said plates, away from the area of contact of the food, and the measured temperature variations which evolve therefrom or a time that is then calculated until a stabilization of the measured temperature, after said placement in contact, are compared to at least one threshold. 11. The method as claimed in claim 6, wherein the calculation of the cooking time (T) for the food is a function of said surface area (Z) occupied by the food and, to estimate this surface area, a number of temperature sensors are used which, following the placing of the food in contact with the plate or plates, measure the temperature of at least one of said plates, in the area of contact of the food, and the measured temperature variations which evolve therefrom or a time that is then calculated until a stabilization of the measured temperature, after said placement in contact, are compared to at least one threshold. 12. The method as claimed in claim 3, wherein, during the step or steps of estimation of the surface area (Z) occupied by the food and/or of the thickness (Y) of the food, and/or of the calculation of the cooking time (T) for the food, there is marking of the food, with an electrical power delivered by the apparatus which is maximum. 13. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein it comprises at least one of the following steps:
selection of the category of the food to be cooked, and/or selection of the frozen state of the food, and/or selection of a desired grill marking of the food. 14. The method as claimed in claim 13, wherein the cooking temperature (θ) for the food and the preheating temperature (θ′) are a function of said selection made. 15. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein, after having positioned the food in contact with the plate or plates, a thickness (Y) of the food is measured and, as a function of this measurement, the cooking of the food is triggered or not by the calculation of the cooking time. 16. A cooking apparatus for implementing the method as claimed in claim 1, the apparatus comprising at least one heating plate for heating the food upon its contact, wherein it comprises, to achieve an internal cooking of the food to a greater or lesser degree as desired by a user:
a memory for storing different internal cooking temperatures (X) for the food, means for measuring the thickness (Y) of the food then positioned in contact with the heating plate or plates and/or means for estimating the surface area (Z) occupied by this food on the or one of the heating plates, means for calculating at least one cooking time (T) for the duly positioned food, based: on at least one of the internal cooking temperatures (X) out of those stored in memory, and on the thickness (Y) of the food, and/or on the surface area (Z) occupied by the food, and means for indicating to the user, by the apparatus, that the corresponding cooking has been achieved. | Provided is a cooking apparatus, preferably including a plurality of heating plates for contact cooking. The cooking time is determined by selecting a desired degree of cooking of the food. After estimating the surface area occupied by the food on one of the heating plates, said cooking time is calculated on the basis of the desired degree of cooking, the thickness of the food, and the surface area occupied by the food1. A method for implementing an apparatus for cooking a food, comprising at least one heating plate for heating the food upon its contact, wherein the method comprises:
storage in a memory of the apparatus of different internal cooking temperatures (X) for the food, to achieve an internal cooking of the food to a greater or lesser degree as then desired by a user, a placing of the food in contact with the heating plate or plates, then, a calculation of a first cooking time (T) for the duly positioned food, as a function of the lowest temperature (X) out of those stored in memory, at the end of said calculated first cooking time (T), an indication to the user, by the apparatus, that the corresponding cooking has been achieved, then: if the user does not remove the food, the application by the apparatus of a calculated second cooking time (T) for the food, as a function of the second in ascending order of said temperatures stored in memory (X), at the end of this calculated second cooking time (T), another indication to the user, by the apparatus, that the corresponding cooking has been achieved, and so on. 2. The method for implementing an apparatus for cooking a food, such as a meat grill, comprising at least one heating plate for heating the food upon its contact, wherein it comprises:
a storage in memory of the apparatus of different internal cooking temperatures (X) for the food, to achieve an internal cooking of the food to a greater or lesser degree, as then desired by a user, a selection by the user of one of said temperatures (X) and a placing of the food in contact with the heating plate or plates, then, a calculation of the cooking time for the food as a function of the selected temperature (X), at the end of the calculated cooking time (T), preferably an indication by the apparatus that the desired cooking has been achieved. 3. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein, during said operation of the apparatus to achieve the desired internal cooking, the following are performed:
a measurement of the thickness (Y) of the food then positioned against said heating plate and/or an estimation of the surface area (Z) occupied by this food on the heating plate, the calculation of the cooking time (T) for the duly positioned food, based:
in addition to the selected cooking temperature (X),
on the thickness (Y) of the food, and/or on the surface area (Z) occupied by the food. 4. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the or each internal cooking temperature value (X) for the food stored in memory of the apparatus is prestored in the factory, before the first operational use of the apparatus. 5. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein, during said operation of the apparatus, the food is positioned between a plurality of said heating plates, on their contacts. 6. The method as claimed in claim 3, wherein the calculation of the cooking time (T) for the food is a function of said surface area (Z) occupied by the food, which is obtained by heating plate temperature measurements. 7. The method as claimed in claim 6, wherein, to estimate the surface area (Z) occupied by the food, there is measured, by at least one temperature sensor and following the placing of the food in contact with the heating plate or plates, the temperature of the or of one of the heating plate(s), and the variation of the measured temperature evolving therefrom is compared to at least one reference threshold. 8. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the cooking time (T) for the food is obtained by a quadratic or linear correlation calculation method. 9. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein it comprises, before the food is placed in contact with the plate or plates, a step (A) of preheating of the apparatus followed by the step (B) of cooking of the food, the start of which is detected by a lowering beyond a predetermined threshold of the temperature of the or of one of the heating plates. 10. The method as claimed in claim 6, wherein the calculation of the cooking time (T) for the food is a function of said surface area (Z) occupied by the food and, to estimate this surface area, a single temperature sensor is used, which, following the placing of the food in contact with the plate or plates, measures the temperature of at least one of said plates, away from the area of contact of the food, and the measured temperature variations which evolve therefrom or a time that is then calculated until a stabilization of the measured temperature, after said placement in contact, are compared to at least one threshold. 11. The method as claimed in claim 6, wherein the calculation of the cooking time (T) for the food is a function of said surface area (Z) occupied by the food and, to estimate this surface area, a number of temperature sensors are used which, following the placing of the food in contact with the plate or plates, measure the temperature of at least one of said plates, in the area of contact of the food, and the measured temperature variations which evolve therefrom or a time that is then calculated until a stabilization of the measured temperature, after said placement in contact, are compared to at least one threshold. 12. The method as claimed in claim 3, wherein, during the step or steps of estimation of the surface area (Z) occupied by the food and/or of the thickness (Y) of the food, and/or of the calculation of the cooking time (T) for the food, there is marking of the food, with an electrical power delivered by the apparatus which is maximum. 13. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein it comprises at least one of the following steps:
selection of the category of the food to be cooked, and/or selection of the frozen state of the food, and/or selection of a desired grill marking of the food. 14. The method as claimed in claim 13, wherein the cooking temperature (θ) for the food and the preheating temperature (θ′) are a function of said selection made. 15. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein, after having positioned the food in contact with the plate or plates, a thickness (Y) of the food is measured and, as a function of this measurement, the cooking of the food is triggered or not by the calculation of the cooking time. 16. A cooking apparatus for implementing the method as claimed in claim 1, the apparatus comprising at least one heating plate for heating the food upon its contact, wherein it comprises, to achieve an internal cooking of the food to a greater or lesser degree as desired by a user:
a memory for storing different internal cooking temperatures (X) for the food, means for measuring the thickness (Y) of the food then positioned in contact with the heating plate or plates and/or means for estimating the surface area (Z) occupied by this food on the or one of the heating plates, means for calculating at least one cooking time (T) for the duly positioned food, based: on at least one of the internal cooking temperatures (X) out of those stored in memory, and on the thickness (Y) of the food, and/or on the surface area (Z) occupied by the food, and means for indicating to the user, by the apparatus, that the corresponding cooking has been achieved. | 1,700 |
4,073 | 14,893,426 | 1,792 | In a method of cooking food in a cooking device, an operator is able to select a specific cooking process from a multitude of predefined automated cooking processes and/or manually select parameters for a manual cooking process, at least one significant cooking process parameter being continuously logged in a memory by a control unit of the cooking device from the start of the cooking process, and it being possible for the operator to change from a manual cooking process to an automated cooking process, and vice versa. Also provided is a cooking device for cooking food, having a control unit including a memory for at least one significant cooking process parameter, and the operating unit offering a changeover switch by which the operator can change from an automated cooking process to a manual cooking process, and vice versa. | 1. A method of cooking food in a cooking device, wherein an operator is able to select a specific cooking process from a multitude of predefined automated cooking processes and/or manually select parameters for a manual cooking process, wherein at least one significant cooking process parameter is continuously logged in a memory by a control unit of the cooking device from the start of the cooking process, and wherein it is possible for the operator to change from a manual cooking process to an automated cooking process, and vice versa. 2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the desired properties of the food cooked to completion are queried by the control unit when the operator changes from a manual cooking process, which was started on the basis of manually defined parameters, to an automated cooking process for the first time. 3. The method according to claim 1, wherein the desired properties of the food cooked to completion are stored by the control unit when the operator changes from an automated cooking process to a manual cooking process. 4. The method according to claim 2, wherein when there is a change from a manual cooking process to an automated cooking process, the control unit checks, based on the significant cooking process parameters stored in the memory, whether the desired properties of the food cooked to completion can be obtained. 5. The method according to claim 4, wherein a notice is displayed to the operator if the desired properties of the food cooked to completion cannot be obtained. 6. The method according to claim 5, wherein a suggestion for alternative properties of the food cooked to completion is made to the operator if the desired properties cannot be obtained. 7. The method according to claim 6, wherein the suggested alternative properties are stored as new desired properties if the operator accepts the suggested alternative properties. 8. The method according to claim 2, wherein upon a change from an automated cooking process to a manual cooking process, a notice is displayed to the operator if the desired properties of the food cooked to completion cannot be obtained with the newly selected parameters. 9. The method according to claim 2, wherein the significant cooking process parameter is selected from the group consisting of an energy input into the food to be cooked, a profile of the core temperature, a cooking chamber temperature, a fan speed and an humidity within the cooking chamber. 10. A cooking device for cooking food, comprising a control unit in which a multitude of predefined automated cooking processes are stored, and an operating unit by which an operator can select one of the automated cooking processes and/or can manually input parameters for a manual cooking process, wherein the control unit includes a memory for at least one significant cooking process parameter, and in that the operating unit offers a changeover switch by which the operator can change from an automated cooking process to a manual cooking process, and vice versa. 11. The cooking device according to claim 10, wherein the cooking device includes an energy meter. 12. The method according to claim 3, wherein when there is a change from a manual cooking process to an automated cooking process, the control unit checks, based on the significant cooking process parameters stored in the memory, whether the desired properties of the food cooked to completion can be obtained. 13. The method according to claim 12, wherein a notice is displayed to the operator if the desired properties of the food cooked to completion cannot be obtained. 14. The method according to claim 13, wherein a suggestion for alternative properties of the food cooked to completion is made to the operator if the desired properties cannot be obtained. 15. The method according to claim 14, wherein the suggested alternative properties are stored as new desired properties if the operator accepts the suggested alternative properties. 16. The method according to claim 15, wherein upon a change from an automated cooking process to a manual cooking process, a notice is displayed to the operator if the desired properties of the food cooked to completion cannot be obtained with the newly selected parameters. 17. The method according to claim 16, wherein the significant cooking process parameter is selected from the group consisting of an energy input into the food to be cooked, a profile of the core temperature, a cooking chamber temperature, a fan speed and an humidity within the cooking chamber. | In a method of cooking food in a cooking device, an operator is able to select a specific cooking process from a multitude of predefined automated cooking processes and/or manually select parameters for a manual cooking process, at least one significant cooking process parameter being continuously logged in a memory by a control unit of the cooking device from the start of the cooking process, and it being possible for the operator to change from a manual cooking process to an automated cooking process, and vice versa. Also provided is a cooking device for cooking food, having a control unit including a memory for at least one significant cooking process parameter, and the operating unit offering a changeover switch by which the operator can change from an automated cooking process to a manual cooking process, and vice versa.1. A method of cooking food in a cooking device, wherein an operator is able to select a specific cooking process from a multitude of predefined automated cooking processes and/or manually select parameters for a manual cooking process, wherein at least one significant cooking process parameter is continuously logged in a memory by a control unit of the cooking device from the start of the cooking process, and wherein it is possible for the operator to change from a manual cooking process to an automated cooking process, and vice versa. 2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the desired properties of the food cooked to completion are queried by the control unit when the operator changes from a manual cooking process, which was started on the basis of manually defined parameters, to an automated cooking process for the first time. 3. The method according to claim 1, wherein the desired properties of the food cooked to completion are stored by the control unit when the operator changes from an automated cooking process to a manual cooking process. 4. The method according to claim 2, wherein when there is a change from a manual cooking process to an automated cooking process, the control unit checks, based on the significant cooking process parameters stored in the memory, whether the desired properties of the food cooked to completion can be obtained. 5. The method according to claim 4, wherein a notice is displayed to the operator if the desired properties of the food cooked to completion cannot be obtained. 6. The method according to claim 5, wherein a suggestion for alternative properties of the food cooked to completion is made to the operator if the desired properties cannot be obtained. 7. The method according to claim 6, wherein the suggested alternative properties are stored as new desired properties if the operator accepts the suggested alternative properties. 8. The method according to claim 2, wherein upon a change from an automated cooking process to a manual cooking process, a notice is displayed to the operator if the desired properties of the food cooked to completion cannot be obtained with the newly selected parameters. 9. The method according to claim 2, wherein the significant cooking process parameter is selected from the group consisting of an energy input into the food to be cooked, a profile of the core temperature, a cooking chamber temperature, a fan speed and an humidity within the cooking chamber. 10. A cooking device for cooking food, comprising a control unit in which a multitude of predefined automated cooking processes are stored, and an operating unit by which an operator can select one of the automated cooking processes and/or can manually input parameters for a manual cooking process, wherein the control unit includes a memory for at least one significant cooking process parameter, and in that the operating unit offers a changeover switch by which the operator can change from an automated cooking process to a manual cooking process, and vice versa. 11. The cooking device according to claim 10, wherein the cooking device includes an energy meter. 12. The method according to claim 3, wherein when there is a change from a manual cooking process to an automated cooking process, the control unit checks, based on the significant cooking process parameters stored in the memory, whether the desired properties of the food cooked to completion can be obtained. 13. The method according to claim 12, wherein a notice is displayed to the operator if the desired properties of the food cooked to completion cannot be obtained. 14. The method according to claim 13, wherein a suggestion for alternative properties of the food cooked to completion is made to the operator if the desired properties cannot be obtained. 15. The method according to claim 14, wherein the suggested alternative properties are stored as new desired properties if the operator accepts the suggested alternative properties. 16. The method according to claim 15, wherein upon a change from an automated cooking process to a manual cooking process, a notice is displayed to the operator if the desired properties of the food cooked to completion cannot be obtained with the newly selected parameters. 17. The method according to claim 16, wherein the significant cooking process parameter is selected from the group consisting of an energy input into the food to be cooked, a profile of the core temperature, a cooking chamber temperature, a fan speed and an humidity within the cooking chamber. | 1,700 |
4,074 | 14,704,026 | 1,742 | Method for casting concrete products, in which method concrete products are cast with a circulating line casting process where mold tables are transferred from one workstation to another, and in which circulating line casting process a plurality of casting molds are formed and equipped on a mold table, wherein the molds of the products to be cast are divided on a different mold tables so that the differences in total complexity of the molds on a single mold table are minimized between mold tables. | 1. A method for casting concrete products, in which method concrete products are cast with a circulating line casting process where mold tables are transferred from one workstation to another, and in which circulating line casting process a plurality of casting molds are formed and equipped on a mold table, comprising dividing the molds of the products to be cast on a different mold tables so that the differences in total complexity of the molds on a single mold table are minimized between mold tables. 2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the complexity of a mold is defined at least by the amount of sidewall elements use for forming the mold on a mold table and by the amount of openings in the mold, as well as the required reinforcements and other work steps for forming and equipping the mold prior to casting. 3. The method according to claim 1, further comprising using previously collected data relating to working times on different workstations of the circulating line casting process for different molds and mold tables for defining the complexity of a mold and mold table. 4. The method according to claim 1, wherein the amount of molds on a single mold table may vary between mold tables. 5. The method according to claim 1, further comprising controlling the circulating line casting process with an automatic control system, which automatic control system defines the complexity of a mold and divides the molds of products to be cast to mold tables. 6. The method according to claim 5, wherein the complexity of a mold is defined by the automatic control system from the electronic designs of the product to be cast. | Method for casting concrete products, in which method concrete products are cast with a circulating line casting process where mold tables are transferred from one workstation to another, and in which circulating line casting process a plurality of casting molds are formed and equipped on a mold table, wherein the molds of the products to be cast are divided on a different mold tables so that the differences in total complexity of the molds on a single mold table are minimized between mold tables.1. A method for casting concrete products, in which method concrete products are cast with a circulating line casting process where mold tables are transferred from one workstation to another, and in which circulating line casting process a plurality of casting molds are formed and equipped on a mold table, comprising dividing the molds of the products to be cast on a different mold tables so that the differences in total complexity of the molds on a single mold table are minimized between mold tables. 2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the complexity of a mold is defined at least by the amount of sidewall elements use for forming the mold on a mold table and by the amount of openings in the mold, as well as the required reinforcements and other work steps for forming and equipping the mold prior to casting. 3. The method according to claim 1, further comprising using previously collected data relating to working times on different workstations of the circulating line casting process for different molds and mold tables for defining the complexity of a mold and mold table. 4. The method according to claim 1, wherein the amount of molds on a single mold table may vary between mold tables. 5. The method according to claim 1, further comprising controlling the circulating line casting process with an automatic control system, which automatic control system defines the complexity of a mold and divides the molds of products to be cast to mold tables. 6. The method according to claim 5, wherein the complexity of a mold is defined by the automatic control system from the electronic designs of the product to be cast. | 1,700 |
4,075 | 15,659,158 | 1,783 | A weighted mat includes a top layer of material, a bottom layer of material, and a series of tubes or compartments between the top and bottom layers for holding a weighted material. The top and bottom layers of material preferably include a series of generally evenly spaced seams that connect the top and bottom layers, which leaves a tubular space between the seams. Weighted material is placed within the tubes created by the seams, and the weighted material is preferably in a particulate form that allows the weighted material to flow from one end of the tube to the other. In use, the weighted mat may simply be used as a mat or cushion on a hard surface, or it may be applied to or draped over a particular body part during a yoga pose or stretching exercise to intensify the effects of gravity. | 1. A weighted mat comprising:
a top layer of material; a bottom layer of material attached to said top layer of material; a series of tubular compartments positioned in parallel relation between said top and bottom layers of material; and a weighted material disposed within each of said tubular compartments, so that said weighted material may freely flow throughout and within each said tubular compartment, and wherein said weighted material may be unevenly distributed throughout said mat. 2. The weighted mat at set forth in claim 1, wherein said top layer of material is selected from the group consisting of nylon, polyester, cotton, silk, polypropylene, and any combination thereof. 3. The weighted mat set forth in claim 1, wherein said bottom layer of material is selected from the group consisting of nylon, polyester, cotton, silk, polypropylene, and any combination thereof. 4. The weighted mat set forth in claim 1, wherein said weighted material is selected from the group consisting of sand, gel, seeds, gravel, stone, beads, metal, plastic, and any combination thereof. 5. The weighted mat set forth in claim 1, wherein each said tubular compartment includes a sealable opening, so that said weighted material may be added to or removed front each said tubular compartment. | A weighted mat includes a top layer of material, a bottom layer of material, and a series of tubes or compartments between the top and bottom layers for holding a weighted material. The top and bottom layers of material preferably include a series of generally evenly spaced seams that connect the top and bottom layers, which leaves a tubular space between the seams. Weighted material is placed within the tubes created by the seams, and the weighted material is preferably in a particulate form that allows the weighted material to flow from one end of the tube to the other. In use, the weighted mat may simply be used as a mat or cushion on a hard surface, or it may be applied to or draped over a particular body part during a yoga pose or stretching exercise to intensify the effects of gravity.1. A weighted mat comprising:
a top layer of material; a bottom layer of material attached to said top layer of material; a series of tubular compartments positioned in parallel relation between said top and bottom layers of material; and a weighted material disposed within each of said tubular compartments, so that said weighted material may freely flow throughout and within each said tubular compartment, and wherein said weighted material may be unevenly distributed throughout said mat. 2. The weighted mat at set forth in claim 1, wherein said top layer of material is selected from the group consisting of nylon, polyester, cotton, silk, polypropylene, and any combination thereof. 3. The weighted mat set forth in claim 1, wherein said bottom layer of material is selected from the group consisting of nylon, polyester, cotton, silk, polypropylene, and any combination thereof. 4. The weighted mat set forth in claim 1, wherein said weighted material is selected from the group consisting of sand, gel, seeds, gravel, stone, beads, metal, plastic, and any combination thereof. 5. The weighted mat set forth in claim 1, wherein each said tubular compartment includes a sealable opening, so that said weighted material may be added to or removed front each said tubular compartment. | 1,700 |
4,076 | 15,026,549 | 1,729 | A noble metal-free catalyst system with a carbon-based support material and a polyaniline-metal catalyst bound to the support material is provided. Moreover, fuel cell containing the catalyst system is provided. The polyaniline-metal catalyst -contains iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn). | 1-8 (canceled) 9. A catalyst system comprising:
a carbon-based support material; and a polyaniline-metal catalyst bound to the support material, the polyaniline-metal catalyst including iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn). 10. The catalyst system as recited in claim 9 wherein the polyaniline-metal catalyst is a polyaniline-Mn/Fe catalyst. 11. The catalyst system as recited in claim 9 wherein a molar ratio of Mn to Fe is in the range from 1:100 to 100:1. 12. The catalyst system as recited in claim 11 wherein the molar ratio of Mn to Fe is in the range from 1:5 to 5:1. 13. The catalyst system as recited in claim 12 wherein the molar ratio of Mn to Fe is in the range from 1:1.5 to 1.5:1. 14. The catalyst system as recited in claim 13 wherein molar ratio of Mn to Fe is 1:1. 15. The catalyst system as recited in claim 9 wherein metal amounts to a fraction of 10% to 40% by weight of the total weight of the catalyst system. 16. A fuel cell comprising the catalyst system as recited in claim 9. | A noble metal-free catalyst system with a carbon-based support material and a polyaniline-metal catalyst bound to the support material is provided. Moreover, fuel cell containing the catalyst system is provided. The polyaniline-metal catalyst -contains iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn).1-8 (canceled) 9. A catalyst system comprising:
a carbon-based support material; and a polyaniline-metal catalyst bound to the support material, the polyaniline-metal catalyst including iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn). 10. The catalyst system as recited in claim 9 wherein the polyaniline-metal catalyst is a polyaniline-Mn/Fe catalyst. 11. The catalyst system as recited in claim 9 wherein a molar ratio of Mn to Fe is in the range from 1:100 to 100:1. 12. The catalyst system as recited in claim 11 wherein the molar ratio of Mn to Fe is in the range from 1:5 to 5:1. 13. The catalyst system as recited in claim 12 wherein the molar ratio of Mn to Fe is in the range from 1:1.5 to 1.5:1. 14. The catalyst system as recited in claim 13 wherein molar ratio of Mn to Fe is 1:1. 15. The catalyst system as recited in claim 9 wherein metal amounts to a fraction of 10% to 40% by weight of the total weight of the catalyst system. 16. A fuel cell comprising the catalyst system as recited in claim 9. | 1,700 |
4,077 | 14,674,432 | 1,724 | A vehicle assembly according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes, among other things, an enclosure, a high voltage component housed inside the enclosure and a blocking member configured to restrict access to the high voltage component along a path that extends through the enclosure. | 1. A vehicle assembly, comprising:
an enclosure; a high voltage component housed inside said enclosure; and a blocking member configured to restrict access to said high voltage component along a path that extends through said enclosure. 2. The assembly as recited in claim 1, wherein said enclosure includes a tray and a cover secured to said tray. 3. The assembly as recited in claim 2, wherein said blocking member is formed in said tray. 4. The assembly as recited in claim 2, wherein said blocking member is formed in said cover. 5. The assembly as recited in claim 2, wherein said blocking member is formed in both said tray and said cover. 6. The assembly as recited in claim 2, wherein said blocking member includes a block body disposed between said cover and said tray. 7. The assembly as recited in claim 2, wherein said blocking member includes an interrupted surface formed in at least one of said tray and said cover. 8. The assembly as recited in claim 7, wherein said interrupted surface is formed in said tray and extends toward said cover. 9. The assembly as recited in claim 7, wherein said interrupted surface is formed in said cover and extends toward said tray. 10. The assembly as recited in claim 1, wherein said blocking member is a stamped feature of said enclosure. 11. The assembly as recited in claim 1, comprising a seal disposed between a cover and a tray of said enclosure. 12. The assembly as recited in claim 1, wherein said blocking member includes an interrupted surface formed in said enclosure, said interrupted surface blocking said path through said enclosure. 13. The assembly as recited in claim 1, wherein said blocking member is formed in a flange of said enclosure. 14. The assembly as recited in claim 1, wherein said blocking member establishes either a lip or a groove around a perimeter of said enclosure. 15. The assembly as recited in claim 1, wherein said vehicle assembly is a high voltage battery assembly. 16. A method, comprising:
incorporating a blocking member into an enclosure of a vehicle assembly; and impeding access through the enclosure to an interior of the enclosure via the blocking member. 17. The method as recited in claim 16, wherein the incorporating step includes forming an interrupted surface in the enclosure. 18. The method as recited in claim 17, wherein the interrupted surface is a stamped feature of the enclosure. 19. The method as recited in claim 16, wherein the impeding step includes preventing insertion of a cutting tool into the interior of the enclosure such that the cutting tool is prevented from contacting a high voltage component housed inside the enclosure. 20. The method as recited in claim 16, wherein the incorporating step includes positioning a block body between a cover and a tray of the enclosure. | A vehicle assembly according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes, among other things, an enclosure, a high voltage component housed inside the enclosure and a blocking member configured to restrict access to the high voltage component along a path that extends through the enclosure.1. A vehicle assembly, comprising:
an enclosure; a high voltage component housed inside said enclosure; and a blocking member configured to restrict access to said high voltage component along a path that extends through said enclosure. 2. The assembly as recited in claim 1, wherein said enclosure includes a tray and a cover secured to said tray. 3. The assembly as recited in claim 2, wherein said blocking member is formed in said tray. 4. The assembly as recited in claim 2, wherein said blocking member is formed in said cover. 5. The assembly as recited in claim 2, wherein said blocking member is formed in both said tray and said cover. 6. The assembly as recited in claim 2, wherein said blocking member includes a block body disposed between said cover and said tray. 7. The assembly as recited in claim 2, wherein said blocking member includes an interrupted surface formed in at least one of said tray and said cover. 8. The assembly as recited in claim 7, wherein said interrupted surface is formed in said tray and extends toward said cover. 9. The assembly as recited in claim 7, wherein said interrupted surface is formed in said cover and extends toward said tray. 10. The assembly as recited in claim 1, wherein said blocking member is a stamped feature of said enclosure. 11. The assembly as recited in claim 1, comprising a seal disposed between a cover and a tray of said enclosure. 12. The assembly as recited in claim 1, wherein said blocking member includes an interrupted surface formed in said enclosure, said interrupted surface blocking said path through said enclosure. 13. The assembly as recited in claim 1, wherein said blocking member is formed in a flange of said enclosure. 14. The assembly as recited in claim 1, wherein said blocking member establishes either a lip or a groove around a perimeter of said enclosure. 15. The assembly as recited in claim 1, wherein said vehicle assembly is a high voltage battery assembly. 16. A method, comprising:
incorporating a blocking member into an enclosure of a vehicle assembly; and impeding access through the enclosure to an interior of the enclosure via the blocking member. 17. The method as recited in claim 16, wherein the incorporating step includes forming an interrupted surface in the enclosure. 18. The method as recited in claim 17, wherein the interrupted surface is a stamped feature of the enclosure. 19. The method as recited in claim 16, wherein the impeding step includes preventing insertion of a cutting tool into the interior of the enclosure such that the cutting tool is prevented from contacting a high voltage component housed inside the enclosure. 20. The method as recited in claim 16, wherein the incorporating step includes positioning a block body between a cover and a tray of the enclosure. | 1,700 |
4,078 | 15,575,238 | 1,722 | The present invention relates to a liquid crystal (LC) medium comprising a polymerisable compound, to a process for its preparation, to its use for optical, electro-optical and electronic purposes, in particular in LC displays, especially in an LC display of the polymer sustained alignment (PSA) type, and to an LC display, especially a PSA display, comprising it. | 1. A liquid crystal (LC) medium comprising
a polymerisable component A) comprising one or more polymerisable compounds, and a liquid-crystalline component B) comprising one or more mesogenic or liquid-crystalline compounds, which comprises one or more compounds selected from formulae C, P, T and D
in which the individual radicals, on each occurrence identically or differently, and each, independently of one another, have the following meaning:
e 1 or 2, preferably 1,
R1 and R2 alkyl having 1 to 12 C atoms, where, in addition, one or two non-adjacent CH2 groups may be replaced by —O—, —CH═CH—, —CO—, —OCO— or —COO— in such a way that O atoms are not linked directly to one another, preferably alkyl or alkoxy having 1 to 6 C atoms,
R5 and R6 alkyl having 1 to 12 C atoms, where, in addition, one or two non-adjacent CH2 groups may be replaced by —O—, —CH═CH—, —CO—, —OCO— or —COO— in such a way that O atoms are not linked directly to one another, preferably alkyl or alkoxy having 1 to 6 C atoms,
Zx and Zy —CH2CH2—, —CH═CH—, —CF2O—, —OCF2—, —CH2O—, —OCH2—, —CO—O—, —O—CO—, —C2F4—, —CF═CF—, —CH═CH—CH2O— or a single bond, preferably a single bond,
L1-4 F or Cl,
LT1-LT6 H, F or Cl, with at least one of LT1 to LT6 being F or Cl,
characterized in that the following conditions are fulfilled:
component B) comprises ≥60% of compounds selected from formulae C, P, T and D,
component B) comprises ≥50% of compounds selected from formula C, P and T,
component B) comprises ≥40% of compounds selected from formulae C and P wherein R2 is an alkoxy group having 1 to 12 C atoms,
component B) comprises 1-20% of compounds of formula D wherein e is 1. 2. The LC medium of claim 1, characterized in that the compounds of formula C are selected from the group consisting of the following sub-formulae:
in which a denotes 2, alkyl and alkyl* each, independently of one another, denote a straight-chain alkyl radical having 1-6 C atoms, and alkenyl denotes a straight-chain alkenyl radical having 2-6 C atoms, and (O) denotes an oxygen atom or a single bond. 3. The LC medium according to claim 1, characterized in that the compounds of formula P are selected from the group consisting of the following sub-formulae:
in which alkyl and alkyl* each, independently of one another, denote a straight-chain alkyl radical having 1-6 C atoms, and alkenyl denotes a straight-chain alkenyl radical having 2-6 C atoms, and (O) denotes an oxygen atom or a single bond. 4. The LC medium according to claim 1, characterized in that the compounds of formula T are selected from the group consisting of the following sub-formulae:
in which R denotes a straight-chain alkyl or alkoxy radical having 1-7 C atoms, R* denotes a straight-chain alkenyl radical having 2-7 C atoms, (O) denotes an oxygen atom or a single bond, and m denotes an integer from 1 to 6. 5. The LC medium according to claim 1, characterized in that the compounds of formula D are selected from the group consisting of the following sub-formulae:
in which alkyl and alkyl* each, independently of one another, denote a straight-chain alkyl radical having 1-6 C atoms, and alkenyl denotes a straight-chain alkenyl radical having 2-6 C atoms. 6. The LC medium according to claim 1, characterized in that the component B) additionally comprises one or more compounds of the following formula
in which the individual radicals have the following meanings:
denotes
denotes
R3 and R4 each, independently of one another, denote alkyl having 1 to 12 C atoms, in which, in addition, one or two non-adjacent CH2 groups may be replaced by —O—, —CH═CH—, —CO—, —O—CO— or —CO—O— in such a way that O atoms are not linked directly to one another,
Zy denotes —CH2CH2—, —CH═CH—, —CF2O—, —OCF2—, —CH2O—, —OCH2—, —CO—O—, —O—CO—, —C2F4—, —CF═CF—, —CH═CH—CH2O— or a single bond. 7. The LC medium according to claim 1, characterized in that the component B) additionally comprises one or more compounds of formula O1
wherein R1 and R2 are, each independently, alkyl having 1 to 12 C atoms, where, in addition, one or two non-adjacent CH2 groups may be replaced by —O—, —CH═CH—, —CO—, —OCO— or —COO— in such a way that O atoms are not linked directly to one another, preferably alkyl or alkoxy having 1 to 6 C atoms. 8. The LC medium according to claim 1, characterized in that the polymerisable compounds are selected of formula I
Ra—B1—(Zb—B2)m—Rb I
in which the individual radicals, on each occurrence identically or differently, and each, independently of one another, have the following meaning: Ra and Rb P, P-Sp-, H, F, Cl, Br, I, —CN, —NO2, —NCO, —NCS, —OCN, —SCN, SF5 or straight-chain or branched alkyl having 1 to 25 C atoms, in which, in addition, one or more non-adjacent CH2 groups may each be replaced, independently of one another, by —C(R0)═C(R00)—, —C≡C—, —N(R00)—, —O—, —S—, —CO—, —CO—O—, —O—CO—, —O—CO—O— in such a way that O and/or S atoms are not linked directly to one another, and in which, in addition, one or more H atoms may be replaced by F, Cl, Br, I, CN, P or P-Sp-, where, if B1 and/or B2 contain a saturated C atom, Ra and/or Rb may also denote a radical which is spiro-linked to this saturated C atom, wherein at least one of the radicals Ra and Rb denotes or contains a group P or P-Sp-, P a polymerisable group, Sp a spacer group or a single bond, B1 and B2 an aromatic, heteroaromatic, alicyclic or heterocyclic group, preferably having 4 to 25 ring atoms, which may also contain fused rings, and which is unsubstituted, or mono- or polysubstituted by L, Zb —O—, —S—, —CO—, —CO—O—, —OCO—, —O—CO—O—, —OCH2—, —CH2O—, —SCH2−, —CH2S—, —CF2O—, —OCF2—, —CF2S—, —SCF2—, —(CH2)n1—, —CF2CH2—, —CH2CF2—, —(CF2)n1—, —CH═CH—, —CF═CF—, —C≡C—, —CH═CH—COO—, —OCO—CH═CH—, CR0R00 or a single bond, R0 and R00 H or alkyl having 1 to 12 C atoms, m 0, 1, 2, 3 or 4, n1 1, 2, 3 or 4, L P, P-Sp-, OH, CH2OH, F, Cl, Br, I, —CN, —NO2, —NCO, —NCS, —OCN, —SCN, —C(═O)N(Rx)2, —C(═O)Y1, —C(═O)Rx, —N(Rx)2, optionally substituted silyl, optionally substituted aryl having 6 to 20 C atoms, or straight-chain or branched alkyl, alkoxy, alkylcarbonyl, alkoxycarbonyl, alkylcarbonyloxy or alkoxycarbonyloxy having 1 to 25 C atoms, in which, in addition, one or more H atoms may be replaced by F, Cl, P or P-Sp-, Y1 halogen, Rx P, P-Sp-, H, halogen, straight-chain, branched or cyclic alkyl having 1 to 25 C atoms, in which, in addition, one or more non-adjacent CH2 groups may be replaced by —O—, —S—, —CO—, —CO—O—, —O—CO—, —O—CO—O— in such a way that O and/or S atoms are not linked directly to one another, and in which, in addition, one or more H atoms may be replaced by F, Cl, P or P-Sp-, an optionally substituted aryl or aryloxy group having 6 to 40 C atoms, or an optionally substituted heteroaryl or heteroaryloxy group having 2 to 40 C atoms. 9. The LC medium according to claim 1, characterized in that the polymerisable compounds are selected from the following formulae:
in which the individual radicals, on each occurrence identically or differently, and each, independently of one another, have the following meaning:
P1, P2, P3 a vinyloxy, acrylate, methacrylate, fluoroacrylate, chloroacrylate, oxetane or epoxy group,
Sp1, Sp2, Sp3 a single bond or a spacer group where, in addition, one or more of the radicals P1-Sp1-, P1-Sp2- and P3-Sp3- may also denote Raa, with the proviso that at least one of the radicals P1-Sp1-, P2-Sp2 and P3-Sp3- present is different from Raa,
Raa H, F, Cl, CN or straight-chain or branched alkyl having 1 to 25 C atoms, in which, in addition, one or more non-adjacent CH2 groups may each be replaced, independently of one another, by —C(R0)═C(R00)—, —C≡C—, —N(R0)—, —O—, —S—, —CO—, —CO—O—, —O—CO—, —O—CO—O— in such a way that O and/or S atoms are not linked directly to one another, and in which, in addition, one or more H atoms may be replaced by F, Cl, CN or P1-Sp1-, particularly preferably straight-chain or branched, optionally mono- or polyfluorinated alkyl, alkoxy, alkenyl, alkynyl, alkylcarbonyl, alkoxycarbonyl, alkylcarbonyloxy or alkoxycarbonyloxy having 1 to 12 C atoms (where the alkenyl and alkynyl radicals have at least two C atoms and the branched radicals have at least three C atoms),
R0, R00 H or alkyl having 1 to 12 C atoms,
Ry and Rz H, F, CH3 or CF3,
X1, X2, X3 —CO—O—, —O—CO— or a single bond,
Z1 —O—, —CO—, —C(RyRz)— or —CF2CF2—,
Z2, Z3 —CO—O—, —O—CO—, —CH2O—, —OCH2—, —CF2O—, —OCF2— or
—(CH2)n—, where n is 2, 3 or 4,
L F, Cl, CN or straight-chain or branched, optionally mono- or polyfluorinated alkyl, alkoxy, alkenyl, alkynyl, alkylcarbonyl, alkoxycarbonyl, alkylcarbonyloxy or alkoxycarbonyloxy having 1 to 12 C atoms,
L′, L″ H, F or Cl,
r 0, 1, 2, 3 or 4,
s 0, 1, 2 or 3,
t 0, 1 or 2,
x 0 or 1. 10. The LC medium according to claim 6, characterized in that the component B) essentially consists of compounds selected from formulae C, P, T, D and ZK, and optionally O1
wherein
R1 and R2 are, each independently, alkyl having 1 to 12 C atoms, where, in addition, one or two non-adjacent CH2 groups may be replaced by —O—, —CH═CH—, —CO—, —OCO— or —COO— in such a way that O atoms are not linked directly to one another, preferably alkyl or alkoxy having 1 to 6 C atoms. 11. The LC medium according to claim 1, characterized in that the polymerisable compounds are polymerised. 12. An LC display comprising an LC medium as defined in claim 1. 13. The LC display of claim 12, which is a PSA type display. 14. The LC display of claim 13, which is a PS-VA, PS-IPS or PS-UB-FFS display. 15. The LC display of claim 14, wherein the LC medium has a nematic phase range ≥130 K. 16. An LC display, which is a PSA type display, characterized in that it comprises two substrates, at least one which is transparent to light, an electrode provided on each substrate or two electrodes provided on only one of the substrates, and located between the substrates a layer of an LC medium as defined in claim 1, wherein the polymerisable compounds are polymerised between the substrates of the display. 17. A process for the production of an LC display according to claim 16, comprising the steps of providing said LC medium between the substrates of the display, and polymerising the polymerisable compounds. 18. A process of preparing an LC medium according to claim 1, comprising the steps of mixing one or more compounds of formula C, P, T and D with one or more polymerisable compounds, and optionally with further LC compounds and/or additives. | The present invention relates to a liquid crystal (LC) medium comprising a polymerisable compound, to a process for its preparation, to its use for optical, electro-optical and electronic purposes, in particular in LC displays, especially in an LC display of the polymer sustained alignment (PSA) type, and to an LC display, especially a PSA display, comprising it.1. A liquid crystal (LC) medium comprising
a polymerisable component A) comprising one or more polymerisable compounds, and a liquid-crystalline component B) comprising one or more mesogenic or liquid-crystalline compounds, which comprises one or more compounds selected from formulae C, P, T and D
in which the individual radicals, on each occurrence identically or differently, and each, independently of one another, have the following meaning:
e 1 or 2, preferably 1,
R1 and R2 alkyl having 1 to 12 C atoms, where, in addition, one or two non-adjacent CH2 groups may be replaced by —O—, —CH═CH—, —CO—, —OCO— or —COO— in such a way that O atoms are not linked directly to one another, preferably alkyl or alkoxy having 1 to 6 C atoms,
R5 and R6 alkyl having 1 to 12 C atoms, where, in addition, one or two non-adjacent CH2 groups may be replaced by —O—, —CH═CH—, —CO—, —OCO— or —COO— in such a way that O atoms are not linked directly to one another, preferably alkyl or alkoxy having 1 to 6 C atoms,
Zx and Zy —CH2CH2—, —CH═CH—, —CF2O—, —OCF2—, —CH2O—, —OCH2—, —CO—O—, —O—CO—, —C2F4—, —CF═CF—, —CH═CH—CH2O— or a single bond, preferably a single bond,
L1-4 F or Cl,
LT1-LT6 H, F or Cl, with at least one of LT1 to LT6 being F or Cl,
characterized in that the following conditions are fulfilled:
component B) comprises ≥60% of compounds selected from formulae C, P, T and D,
component B) comprises ≥50% of compounds selected from formula C, P and T,
component B) comprises ≥40% of compounds selected from formulae C and P wherein R2 is an alkoxy group having 1 to 12 C atoms,
component B) comprises 1-20% of compounds of formula D wherein e is 1. 2. The LC medium of claim 1, characterized in that the compounds of formula C are selected from the group consisting of the following sub-formulae:
in which a denotes 2, alkyl and alkyl* each, independently of one another, denote a straight-chain alkyl radical having 1-6 C atoms, and alkenyl denotes a straight-chain alkenyl radical having 2-6 C atoms, and (O) denotes an oxygen atom or a single bond. 3. The LC medium according to claim 1, characterized in that the compounds of formula P are selected from the group consisting of the following sub-formulae:
in which alkyl and alkyl* each, independently of one another, denote a straight-chain alkyl radical having 1-6 C atoms, and alkenyl denotes a straight-chain alkenyl radical having 2-6 C atoms, and (O) denotes an oxygen atom or a single bond. 4. The LC medium according to claim 1, characterized in that the compounds of formula T are selected from the group consisting of the following sub-formulae:
in which R denotes a straight-chain alkyl or alkoxy radical having 1-7 C atoms, R* denotes a straight-chain alkenyl radical having 2-7 C atoms, (O) denotes an oxygen atom or a single bond, and m denotes an integer from 1 to 6. 5. The LC medium according to claim 1, characterized in that the compounds of formula D are selected from the group consisting of the following sub-formulae:
in which alkyl and alkyl* each, independently of one another, denote a straight-chain alkyl radical having 1-6 C atoms, and alkenyl denotes a straight-chain alkenyl radical having 2-6 C atoms. 6. The LC medium according to claim 1, characterized in that the component B) additionally comprises one or more compounds of the following formula
in which the individual radicals have the following meanings:
denotes
denotes
R3 and R4 each, independently of one another, denote alkyl having 1 to 12 C atoms, in which, in addition, one or two non-adjacent CH2 groups may be replaced by —O—, —CH═CH—, —CO—, —O—CO— or —CO—O— in such a way that O atoms are not linked directly to one another,
Zy denotes —CH2CH2—, —CH═CH—, —CF2O—, —OCF2—, —CH2O—, —OCH2—, —CO—O—, —O—CO—, —C2F4—, —CF═CF—, —CH═CH—CH2O— or a single bond. 7. The LC medium according to claim 1, characterized in that the component B) additionally comprises one or more compounds of formula O1
wherein R1 and R2 are, each independently, alkyl having 1 to 12 C atoms, where, in addition, one or two non-adjacent CH2 groups may be replaced by —O—, —CH═CH—, —CO—, —OCO— or —COO— in such a way that O atoms are not linked directly to one another, preferably alkyl or alkoxy having 1 to 6 C atoms. 8. The LC medium according to claim 1, characterized in that the polymerisable compounds are selected of formula I
Ra—B1—(Zb—B2)m—Rb I
in which the individual radicals, on each occurrence identically or differently, and each, independently of one another, have the following meaning: Ra and Rb P, P-Sp-, H, F, Cl, Br, I, —CN, —NO2, —NCO, —NCS, —OCN, —SCN, SF5 or straight-chain or branched alkyl having 1 to 25 C atoms, in which, in addition, one or more non-adjacent CH2 groups may each be replaced, independently of one another, by —C(R0)═C(R00)—, —C≡C—, —N(R00)—, —O—, —S—, —CO—, —CO—O—, —O—CO—, —O—CO—O— in such a way that O and/or S atoms are not linked directly to one another, and in which, in addition, one or more H atoms may be replaced by F, Cl, Br, I, CN, P or P-Sp-, where, if B1 and/or B2 contain a saturated C atom, Ra and/or Rb may also denote a radical which is spiro-linked to this saturated C atom, wherein at least one of the radicals Ra and Rb denotes or contains a group P or P-Sp-, P a polymerisable group, Sp a spacer group or a single bond, B1 and B2 an aromatic, heteroaromatic, alicyclic or heterocyclic group, preferably having 4 to 25 ring atoms, which may also contain fused rings, and which is unsubstituted, or mono- or polysubstituted by L, Zb —O—, —S—, —CO—, —CO—O—, —OCO—, —O—CO—O—, —OCH2—, —CH2O—, —SCH2−, —CH2S—, —CF2O—, —OCF2—, —CF2S—, —SCF2—, —(CH2)n1—, —CF2CH2—, —CH2CF2—, —(CF2)n1—, —CH═CH—, —CF═CF—, —C≡C—, —CH═CH—COO—, —OCO—CH═CH—, CR0R00 or a single bond, R0 and R00 H or alkyl having 1 to 12 C atoms, m 0, 1, 2, 3 or 4, n1 1, 2, 3 or 4, L P, P-Sp-, OH, CH2OH, F, Cl, Br, I, —CN, —NO2, —NCO, —NCS, —OCN, —SCN, —C(═O)N(Rx)2, —C(═O)Y1, —C(═O)Rx, —N(Rx)2, optionally substituted silyl, optionally substituted aryl having 6 to 20 C atoms, or straight-chain or branched alkyl, alkoxy, alkylcarbonyl, alkoxycarbonyl, alkylcarbonyloxy or alkoxycarbonyloxy having 1 to 25 C atoms, in which, in addition, one or more H atoms may be replaced by F, Cl, P or P-Sp-, Y1 halogen, Rx P, P-Sp-, H, halogen, straight-chain, branched or cyclic alkyl having 1 to 25 C atoms, in which, in addition, one or more non-adjacent CH2 groups may be replaced by —O—, —S—, —CO—, —CO—O—, —O—CO—, —O—CO—O— in such a way that O and/or S atoms are not linked directly to one another, and in which, in addition, one or more H atoms may be replaced by F, Cl, P or P-Sp-, an optionally substituted aryl or aryloxy group having 6 to 40 C atoms, or an optionally substituted heteroaryl or heteroaryloxy group having 2 to 40 C atoms. 9. The LC medium according to claim 1, characterized in that the polymerisable compounds are selected from the following formulae:
in which the individual radicals, on each occurrence identically or differently, and each, independently of one another, have the following meaning:
P1, P2, P3 a vinyloxy, acrylate, methacrylate, fluoroacrylate, chloroacrylate, oxetane or epoxy group,
Sp1, Sp2, Sp3 a single bond or a spacer group where, in addition, one or more of the radicals P1-Sp1-, P1-Sp2- and P3-Sp3- may also denote Raa, with the proviso that at least one of the radicals P1-Sp1-, P2-Sp2 and P3-Sp3- present is different from Raa,
Raa H, F, Cl, CN or straight-chain or branched alkyl having 1 to 25 C atoms, in which, in addition, one or more non-adjacent CH2 groups may each be replaced, independently of one another, by —C(R0)═C(R00)—, —C≡C—, —N(R0)—, —O—, —S—, —CO—, —CO—O—, —O—CO—, —O—CO—O— in such a way that O and/or S atoms are not linked directly to one another, and in which, in addition, one or more H atoms may be replaced by F, Cl, CN or P1-Sp1-, particularly preferably straight-chain or branched, optionally mono- or polyfluorinated alkyl, alkoxy, alkenyl, alkynyl, alkylcarbonyl, alkoxycarbonyl, alkylcarbonyloxy or alkoxycarbonyloxy having 1 to 12 C atoms (where the alkenyl and alkynyl radicals have at least two C atoms and the branched radicals have at least three C atoms),
R0, R00 H or alkyl having 1 to 12 C atoms,
Ry and Rz H, F, CH3 or CF3,
X1, X2, X3 —CO—O—, —O—CO— or a single bond,
Z1 —O—, —CO—, —C(RyRz)— or —CF2CF2—,
Z2, Z3 —CO—O—, —O—CO—, —CH2O—, —OCH2—, —CF2O—, —OCF2— or
—(CH2)n—, where n is 2, 3 or 4,
L F, Cl, CN or straight-chain or branched, optionally mono- or polyfluorinated alkyl, alkoxy, alkenyl, alkynyl, alkylcarbonyl, alkoxycarbonyl, alkylcarbonyloxy or alkoxycarbonyloxy having 1 to 12 C atoms,
L′, L″ H, F or Cl,
r 0, 1, 2, 3 or 4,
s 0, 1, 2 or 3,
t 0, 1 or 2,
x 0 or 1. 10. The LC medium according to claim 6, characterized in that the component B) essentially consists of compounds selected from formulae C, P, T, D and ZK, and optionally O1
wherein
R1 and R2 are, each independently, alkyl having 1 to 12 C atoms, where, in addition, one or two non-adjacent CH2 groups may be replaced by —O—, —CH═CH—, —CO—, —OCO— or —COO— in such a way that O atoms are not linked directly to one another, preferably alkyl or alkoxy having 1 to 6 C atoms. 11. The LC medium according to claim 1, characterized in that the polymerisable compounds are polymerised. 12. An LC display comprising an LC medium as defined in claim 1. 13. The LC display of claim 12, which is a PSA type display. 14. The LC display of claim 13, which is a PS-VA, PS-IPS or PS-UB-FFS display. 15. The LC display of claim 14, wherein the LC medium has a nematic phase range ≥130 K. 16. An LC display, which is a PSA type display, characterized in that it comprises two substrates, at least one which is transparent to light, an electrode provided on each substrate or two electrodes provided on only one of the substrates, and located between the substrates a layer of an LC medium as defined in claim 1, wherein the polymerisable compounds are polymerised between the substrates of the display. 17. A process for the production of an LC display according to claim 16, comprising the steps of providing said LC medium between the substrates of the display, and polymerising the polymerisable compounds. 18. A process of preparing an LC medium according to claim 1, comprising the steps of mixing one or more compounds of formula C, P, T and D with one or more polymerisable compounds, and optionally with further LC compounds and/or additives. | 1,700 |
4,079 | 15,887,207 | 1,714 | It is an object to provide a method for producing a diamond substrate effective for reducing various defects including dislocation defects and a foundation substrate used for the same. This object is achieved by a foundation substrate for forming a diamond film by a chemical vapor deposition method, wherein an off angle is provided to the surface of the foundation substrate with respect to a predetermined crystal plane orientation. | 1. A foundation substrate for forming a diamond film by a chemical vapor deposition method,
wherein an off angle is provided at a surface of the foundation substrate with respect to a predetermined crystal plane orientation. 2. The foundation substrate for forming a diamond film according to claim 1, wherein an off angle is provided to the surface of the foundation substrate toward a crystal axis direction of <110> with respect to a crystal plane orientation of {100}. 3. The foundation substrate for forming a diamond film according to claim 1, wherein an off angle is provided to the surface of the foundation substrate toward a crystal axis of <-1-1 2> with respect to a crystal plane orientation of {111}. 4. The foundation substrate for forming a diamond film according to claim 1, wherein the off angle is in the range of 2 to 15°. 5. The foundation substrate for forming a diamond film according to claim 2, wherein the off angle is in the range of 2 to 15°. 6. The foundation substrate for forming a diamond film according to claim 3, wherein the off angle is in the range of 2 to 15°. 7. The foundation substrate for forming a diamond film according to claim 1, wherein the surface of the foundation substrate is any one of diamond, iridium, rhodium, palladium and platinum. 8. The foundation substrate for forming a diamond film according to claim 2, wherein the surface of the foundation substrate is any one of diamond, iridium, rhodium, palladium and platinum. 9. The foundation substrate for forming a diamond film according to claim 3, wherein the surface of the foundation substrate is any one of diamond, iridium, rhodium, palladium and platinum. 10. The foundation substrate for forming a diamond film according to claim 1, wherein the foundation substrate has a multilayer structure in which a surface film forming the surface is laminated. 11. The foundation substrate for forming a diamond film according to claim 2, wherein the foundation substrate has a multilayer structure in which a surface film forming the surface is laminated. 12. The foundation substrate for forming a diamond film according to claim 3, wherein the foundation substrate has a multilayer structure in which a surface film forming the surface is laminated. 13. The foundation substrate for forming a diamond film according to claim 10, wherein the multilayer structure comprises a MgO substrate and a surface film formed thereon. 14. The foundation substrate for forming a diamond film according to claim 11, wherein the multilayer structure comprises a MgO substrate and a surface film formed thereon. 15. The foundation substrate for forming a diamond film according to claim 12, wherein the multilayer structure comprises a MgO substrate and a surface film formed thereon. 16. The foundation substrate for forming a diamond film according to claim 10, wherein the multilayer structure comprises a silicon substrate, an intermediate film comprising a single layer or multiple layers formed thereon, and a surface film formed on the intermediate film. 17. The foundation substrate for forming a diamond film according to claim 11, wherein the multilayer structure comprises a silicon substrate, an intermediate film comprising a single layer or multiple layers formed thereon, and a surface film formed on the intermediate film. 18. The foundation substrate for forming a diamond film according to claim 12, wherein the multilayer structure comprises a silicon substrate, an intermediate film comprising a single layer or multiple layers formed thereon, and a surface film formed on the intermediate film. 19. A method for producing a diamond substrate which comprises homoepitaxially growing or heteroepitaxially growing diamond on the foundation substrate for forming a diamond film according to claim 1. 20. A method for producing a diamond substrate which comprises homoepitaxially growing or heteroepitaxially growing diamond on the foundation substrate for forming a diamond film according to claim 10, wherein an off angle has been formed on a surface film by providing the off angle to any of the layers in a course of forming a multilayer structure. | It is an object to provide a method for producing a diamond substrate effective for reducing various defects including dislocation defects and a foundation substrate used for the same. This object is achieved by a foundation substrate for forming a diamond film by a chemical vapor deposition method, wherein an off angle is provided to the surface of the foundation substrate with respect to a predetermined crystal plane orientation.1. A foundation substrate for forming a diamond film by a chemical vapor deposition method,
wherein an off angle is provided at a surface of the foundation substrate with respect to a predetermined crystal plane orientation. 2. The foundation substrate for forming a diamond film according to claim 1, wherein an off angle is provided to the surface of the foundation substrate toward a crystal axis direction of <110> with respect to a crystal plane orientation of {100}. 3. The foundation substrate for forming a diamond film according to claim 1, wherein an off angle is provided to the surface of the foundation substrate toward a crystal axis of <-1-1 2> with respect to a crystal plane orientation of {111}. 4. The foundation substrate for forming a diamond film according to claim 1, wherein the off angle is in the range of 2 to 15°. 5. The foundation substrate for forming a diamond film according to claim 2, wherein the off angle is in the range of 2 to 15°. 6. The foundation substrate for forming a diamond film according to claim 3, wherein the off angle is in the range of 2 to 15°. 7. The foundation substrate for forming a diamond film according to claim 1, wherein the surface of the foundation substrate is any one of diamond, iridium, rhodium, palladium and platinum. 8. The foundation substrate for forming a diamond film according to claim 2, wherein the surface of the foundation substrate is any one of diamond, iridium, rhodium, palladium and platinum. 9. The foundation substrate for forming a diamond film according to claim 3, wherein the surface of the foundation substrate is any one of diamond, iridium, rhodium, palladium and platinum. 10. The foundation substrate for forming a diamond film according to claim 1, wherein the foundation substrate has a multilayer structure in which a surface film forming the surface is laminated. 11. The foundation substrate for forming a diamond film according to claim 2, wherein the foundation substrate has a multilayer structure in which a surface film forming the surface is laminated. 12. The foundation substrate for forming a diamond film according to claim 3, wherein the foundation substrate has a multilayer structure in which a surface film forming the surface is laminated. 13. The foundation substrate for forming a diamond film according to claim 10, wherein the multilayer structure comprises a MgO substrate and a surface film formed thereon. 14. The foundation substrate for forming a diamond film according to claim 11, wherein the multilayer structure comprises a MgO substrate and a surface film formed thereon. 15. The foundation substrate for forming a diamond film according to claim 12, wherein the multilayer structure comprises a MgO substrate and a surface film formed thereon. 16. The foundation substrate for forming a diamond film according to claim 10, wherein the multilayer structure comprises a silicon substrate, an intermediate film comprising a single layer or multiple layers formed thereon, and a surface film formed on the intermediate film. 17. The foundation substrate for forming a diamond film according to claim 11, wherein the multilayer structure comprises a silicon substrate, an intermediate film comprising a single layer or multiple layers formed thereon, and a surface film formed on the intermediate film. 18. The foundation substrate for forming a diamond film according to claim 12, wherein the multilayer structure comprises a silicon substrate, an intermediate film comprising a single layer or multiple layers formed thereon, and a surface film formed on the intermediate film. 19. A method for producing a diamond substrate which comprises homoepitaxially growing or heteroepitaxially growing diamond on the foundation substrate for forming a diamond film according to claim 1. 20. A method for producing a diamond substrate which comprises homoepitaxially growing or heteroepitaxially growing diamond on the foundation substrate for forming a diamond film according to claim 10, wherein an off angle has been formed on a surface film by providing the off angle to any of the layers in a course of forming a multilayer structure. | 1,700 |
4,080 | 13,503,237 | 1,792 | The invention pertains to the use of a supplement for making metals (nutritionally) available to animals, said supplement comprising at least one compound selected from the group consisting of glutamic acid N,N-diacetic acid (GLDA), a metal complex of GLDA, a sodium salt of GLDA, a potassium salt of GLDA, methylglycine-N,N-diacetic acid (MGDA), a metal complex of MGDA, a sodium salt of MGDA, a potassium salt of MGDA, ethylenediamine N,N′-disuccinic acid (EDDS), a metal complex of EDDS, a sodium salt of EDDS, a potassium salt of EDDS, iminodisuccinic acid (IDS), a metal complex of IDS, a sodium salt of IDS, and a potassium salt of IDS. | 1. Use of a supplement for making metal (nutritionally) available to animals, said supplement comprising at least one compound selected from the group consisting of glutamic acid N,N-diacetic acid (GLDA), a metal complex of GLDA, a sodium salt of GLDA, a potassium salt of GLDA, methylglycine-N,N-diacetic acid (MGDA), a metal complex of MGDA, a sodium salt of MGDA, and a potassium salt of MGDA, ethylenediamine N,N′-disuccinic acid (EDDS), a metal complex of EDDS, a sodium salt of EDDS, a potassium salt of EDDS, iminodisuccinic acid (IDS), a metal complex of IDS, a sodium salt of IDS, and a potassium salt of IDS. 2. Use of a supplement for making metal (nutritionally) available to animals, wherein the supplement comprises at least one anion selected from the group of anions of GLDA, MGDA, EDDS or IDS and at least one cation selected from the group consisting of calcium, magnesium, copper, zinc, iron, manganese, chromium, and cobalt cations. 3. Use according to claim 1 wherein the metal is selected from the group consisting of zinc, copper, iron, manganese, cobalt, chromium, calcium, and magnesium. 4. Use according to any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein the supplement comprises a metal complex of GLDA, a metal complex of MGDA, a metal complex of EDDS or a metal complex of IDS. 5. Use according to claim 4 wherein the supplement comprises a metal complex of GLDA or a metal complex of MGDA. 6. Use according to any one of preceding claims 1 to 5 wherein the supplement comprises a zinc, manganese, iron or copper complex of GLDA. 7. Use according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 6 wherein the supplement is present in animal feed, animal drinking water, salt licks, or premixes therefor. 8. Use according to claim 7 wherein the animal feed in addition comprises a feedstuff from the group of legumes, forages, grain and/or leaves or derivatives thereof. 9. Use according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 8 wherein the animals are domestic animals or aquatic animals, preferably chickens, layers, turkeys, swine, cattle, sheep, goats, horses, cats, dogs, fish, or shrimp. 10. Animal feed, animal drinking water, salt licks or premixes therefor comprising (i) at least one compound selected from the group consisting of glutamic acid N,N-diacetic acid (GLDA), a metal complex of GLDA, a sodium salt of GLDA, a potassium salt of GLDA, methylglycine-N,N-diacetic acid (MGDA), a metal complex of MGDA, a sodium salt of MGDA, a potassium salt of MGDA, ethylenediamine N,N′-disuccinic acid (EDDS), a metal complex of EDDS, a sodium salt of EDDS, a potassium salt of EDDS, iminodisuccinic acid (IDS), a metal complex of IDS, a sodium salt of IDS, and a potassium salt of IDS, and (ii) at least one compound selected from the group consisting of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, minerals, vitamins, vitamin precursors, and water or other edible liquids. 11. Animal feed, animal drinking water, salt licks or premixes therefor according to claim 10 wherein the metal is selected from the group consisting of zinc, copper, iron, manganese, chromium, cobalt, calcium, and magnesium. 12. Animal feed, animal drinking water, salt licks or premixes therefor according to claim 10 or 11 comprising a zinc or copper complex of GLDA. 13. Animal feed, animal drinking water, salt licks or premixes therefor according to claim 10 or 11 comprising as compound (i) one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of a sodium salt of GLDA, a potassium salt of GLDA, a sodium salt of MGDA, a potassium salt of MGDA, a calcium complex of GLDA, a magnesium complex of GLDA, a calcium complex of MGDA, and a magnesium complex of MGDA; and one or more salts selected from the group consisting of a copper salt, a zinc salt, an iron salt, a manganese salt, a chromium salt, and a cobalt salt. 14. Metal complex of glutamic acid N,N-diacetic acid (GLDA) or methylglycine-N,N-diacetic acid (MGDA) wherein the metal is selected from the group consisting of copper, zinc, manganese, chromium, cobalt, magnesium, and calcium. 15. Metal complex of claim 14 wherein the complex is Na2Cu-GLDA, K2Cu-GLDA, H2Cu-GLDA, NaKCu-GLDA, NaHCu-GLDA, KHCu-GLDA, Cu2-GLDA, Na2Zn-GLDA, K2Zn-GLDA, H2Zn-GLDA, NaKZn-GLDA, NaHZn-GLDA, KHZn-GLDA, Zn2-GLDA, Na2Mn-GLDA, K2Mn-GLDA, H2Mn-GLDA, NaKMn-GLDA, NaHMn-GLDA, KHMn-GLDA, Mn2-GLDA, NaCu-MGDA, KCu-MGDA, HCu-MGDA, NaZn-MGDA, KZn-MGDA, HZn-MGDA, NaMn-MGDA, KMn-MGDA, HMn-MGDA. 16. A method of supplementing animal feed, animal drinking water, salt licks or premixes therefor, comprising the step of adding a supplement comprising a metal complex of glutamic acid N,N-diacetic acid (GLDA) methylglycine-N,N-diacetic acid (MGDA) ethylenediamine N,N′-disuccinic acid (EDDS), or iminodisuccinic acid (IDS) to said animal feed, animal drinking water, salt licks or premixes, or by adding at least one compound selected from the group consisting of GLDA, a sodium salt of GLDA, a potassium salt of GLDA, MGDA, a sodium salt of MGDA, a potassium salt of MGDA, EDDS, a sodium salt of EDDS, a lo potassium salt of EDDS, IDS, a sodium salt of IDS, and a potassium salt of IDS, optionally together with one or more salts selected from the group consisting of a copper salt, a zinc salt, an iron salt, a manganese salt, a chromium salt, and a cobalt salt to said animal feed, animal drinking water, salt licks or premixes. | The invention pertains to the use of a supplement for making metals (nutritionally) available to animals, said supplement comprising at least one compound selected from the group consisting of glutamic acid N,N-diacetic acid (GLDA), a metal complex of GLDA, a sodium salt of GLDA, a potassium salt of GLDA, methylglycine-N,N-diacetic acid (MGDA), a metal complex of MGDA, a sodium salt of MGDA, a potassium salt of MGDA, ethylenediamine N,N′-disuccinic acid (EDDS), a metal complex of EDDS, a sodium salt of EDDS, a potassium salt of EDDS, iminodisuccinic acid (IDS), a metal complex of IDS, a sodium salt of IDS, and a potassium salt of IDS.1. Use of a supplement for making metal (nutritionally) available to animals, said supplement comprising at least one compound selected from the group consisting of glutamic acid N,N-diacetic acid (GLDA), a metal complex of GLDA, a sodium salt of GLDA, a potassium salt of GLDA, methylglycine-N,N-diacetic acid (MGDA), a metal complex of MGDA, a sodium salt of MGDA, and a potassium salt of MGDA, ethylenediamine N,N′-disuccinic acid (EDDS), a metal complex of EDDS, a sodium salt of EDDS, a potassium salt of EDDS, iminodisuccinic acid (IDS), a metal complex of IDS, a sodium salt of IDS, and a potassium salt of IDS. 2. Use of a supplement for making metal (nutritionally) available to animals, wherein the supplement comprises at least one anion selected from the group of anions of GLDA, MGDA, EDDS or IDS and at least one cation selected from the group consisting of calcium, magnesium, copper, zinc, iron, manganese, chromium, and cobalt cations. 3. Use according to claim 1 wherein the metal is selected from the group consisting of zinc, copper, iron, manganese, cobalt, chromium, calcium, and magnesium. 4. Use according to any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein the supplement comprises a metal complex of GLDA, a metal complex of MGDA, a metal complex of EDDS or a metal complex of IDS. 5. Use according to claim 4 wherein the supplement comprises a metal complex of GLDA or a metal complex of MGDA. 6. Use according to any one of preceding claims 1 to 5 wherein the supplement comprises a zinc, manganese, iron or copper complex of GLDA. 7. Use according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 6 wherein the supplement is present in animal feed, animal drinking water, salt licks, or premixes therefor. 8. Use according to claim 7 wherein the animal feed in addition comprises a feedstuff from the group of legumes, forages, grain and/or leaves or derivatives thereof. 9. Use according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 8 wherein the animals are domestic animals or aquatic animals, preferably chickens, layers, turkeys, swine, cattle, sheep, goats, horses, cats, dogs, fish, or shrimp. 10. Animal feed, animal drinking water, salt licks or premixes therefor comprising (i) at least one compound selected from the group consisting of glutamic acid N,N-diacetic acid (GLDA), a metal complex of GLDA, a sodium salt of GLDA, a potassium salt of GLDA, methylglycine-N,N-diacetic acid (MGDA), a metal complex of MGDA, a sodium salt of MGDA, a potassium salt of MGDA, ethylenediamine N,N′-disuccinic acid (EDDS), a metal complex of EDDS, a sodium salt of EDDS, a potassium salt of EDDS, iminodisuccinic acid (IDS), a metal complex of IDS, a sodium salt of IDS, and a potassium salt of IDS, and (ii) at least one compound selected from the group consisting of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, minerals, vitamins, vitamin precursors, and water or other edible liquids. 11. Animal feed, animal drinking water, salt licks or premixes therefor according to claim 10 wherein the metal is selected from the group consisting of zinc, copper, iron, manganese, chromium, cobalt, calcium, and magnesium. 12. Animal feed, animal drinking water, salt licks or premixes therefor according to claim 10 or 11 comprising a zinc or copper complex of GLDA. 13. Animal feed, animal drinking water, salt licks or premixes therefor according to claim 10 or 11 comprising as compound (i) one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of a sodium salt of GLDA, a potassium salt of GLDA, a sodium salt of MGDA, a potassium salt of MGDA, a calcium complex of GLDA, a magnesium complex of GLDA, a calcium complex of MGDA, and a magnesium complex of MGDA; and one or more salts selected from the group consisting of a copper salt, a zinc salt, an iron salt, a manganese salt, a chromium salt, and a cobalt salt. 14. Metal complex of glutamic acid N,N-diacetic acid (GLDA) or methylglycine-N,N-diacetic acid (MGDA) wherein the metal is selected from the group consisting of copper, zinc, manganese, chromium, cobalt, magnesium, and calcium. 15. Metal complex of claim 14 wherein the complex is Na2Cu-GLDA, K2Cu-GLDA, H2Cu-GLDA, NaKCu-GLDA, NaHCu-GLDA, KHCu-GLDA, Cu2-GLDA, Na2Zn-GLDA, K2Zn-GLDA, H2Zn-GLDA, NaKZn-GLDA, NaHZn-GLDA, KHZn-GLDA, Zn2-GLDA, Na2Mn-GLDA, K2Mn-GLDA, H2Mn-GLDA, NaKMn-GLDA, NaHMn-GLDA, KHMn-GLDA, Mn2-GLDA, NaCu-MGDA, KCu-MGDA, HCu-MGDA, NaZn-MGDA, KZn-MGDA, HZn-MGDA, NaMn-MGDA, KMn-MGDA, HMn-MGDA. 16. A method of supplementing animal feed, animal drinking water, salt licks or premixes therefor, comprising the step of adding a supplement comprising a metal complex of glutamic acid N,N-diacetic acid (GLDA) methylglycine-N,N-diacetic acid (MGDA) ethylenediamine N,N′-disuccinic acid (EDDS), or iminodisuccinic acid (IDS) to said animal feed, animal drinking water, salt licks or premixes, or by adding at least one compound selected from the group consisting of GLDA, a sodium salt of GLDA, a potassium salt of GLDA, MGDA, a sodium salt of MGDA, a potassium salt of MGDA, EDDS, a sodium salt of EDDS, a lo potassium salt of EDDS, IDS, a sodium salt of IDS, and a potassium salt of IDS, optionally together with one or more salts selected from the group consisting of a copper salt, a zinc salt, an iron salt, a manganese salt, a chromium salt, and a cobalt salt to said animal feed, animal drinking water, salt licks or premixes. | 1,700 |
4,081 | 15,022,474 | 1,781 | Film articles with dual-sided structures are ones in which both of the major surfaces of the film have a structured surface. The structured film articles have a first major surface and second major surface, where each surface has a plurality of spaced apart protrusions forming a repeating pattern. Each repeating pattern has a major axis, where the major axis is one of the major axes in the translational direction of the repeating pattern. The major axis of the repeating pattern on the second major surface forms an oblique angle with the major axis on the first major surface, where the angle is in the range of 10-90% of the angle of rotational symmetry of the repeating pattern. The structured film is a unitary substrate. The structured film articles are prepared by providing a flowable material composition having two major surfaces and simultaneously contacting the major surfaces with a first microstructuring tool, and a second microstructuring tool. Each microstructuring tool has a structured surface including a pattern of a plurality of depressions. | 1. A structured substrate comprising:
a first major surface and second major surface, wherein the first major surface and the second major surface each comprise a plurality of spaced apart protrusions forming a repeating pattern, each repeating pattern having a major axis, wherein the major axis comprises one of the major axes in the translational direction of the repeating pattern, and wherein the major axis of the repeating pattern on the second major surface forms an oblique angle with the major axis on the first major surface, wherein the angle is in the range of 10-90% of the angle of rotational symmetry of the repeating pattern, and wherein the structured substrate is a unitary substrate. 2. The structured substrate of claim 1, wherein the repeating pattern on the first major surface and/or the second major surface comprise any periodic geometric pattern. 3. The structured substrate of claim 2, wherein the periodic geometric pattern comprises a pattern of squares, a pattern of hexagons, a pattern of triangles, or a pattern of circles. 4. The structured substrate of claim 1, wherein the repeating pattern on the first major surface is the same as the repeating pattern on the second major surface. 5. The structured substrate of claim 1, wherein the repeating pattern on the first major surface is different from the repeating pattern on the second major surface. 6. The structured substrate of claim 1, wherein the angle is in the range of 20-80% of the angle of rotational symmetry of the repeating pattern. 7. The structured substrate of claim 1, wherein the repeating pattern on the first major surface and the repeating pattern on the second major surface form an array of cavities, and wherein the protrusions form the walls of the cavities. 8. The structured substrate of claim 7, wherein the array of cavities comprises an array of square cavities. 9. The structured substrate of claim 7, wherein the array of cavities comprises an array of hexagonal cavities. 10. The structured substrate of claim 7, wherein the array of cavities comprises an array of triangular cavities. 11. The structured substrate of claim 7, wherein the array of cavities comprises an array of circular cavities. 12. The structured substrate of claim 7, wherein in a cross sectional view along the first major axis, a first surface area is defined as the region of the first major surface comprising a protrusion and the cavity for which the protrusion forms one wall, a second surface area is defined as the region of the second major surface comprising a protrusion and the cavity for which the protrusion forms one wall, and a third surface area is defined as the land area between the first surface area and the second surface area, and wherein the ratio of the sum of the first surface area and the second surface area to the third surface area is 1:1 or greater. 13. The structured substrate of claim 1 being made by extrusion replication. 14. The structured substrate of claim 1, wherein the structured substrate comprises a uniform material composition. 15. A method of preparing an article comprising:
providing a flowable material composition comprising a first major surface and second major surface; providing a first microstructuring tool, the first microstructuring tool comprising a structured surface comprising a pattern comprising a plurality of depressions; providing a second microstructuring tool, the second microstructuring tool comprising a structured surface comprising a pattern comprising a plurality of depressions; and simultaneously contacting the first microstructuring tool to the first major surface of the flowable material composition and contacting the second microstructuring tool to the second major surface of the flowable material composition to form structured first and second major surfaces on the flowable material composition, wherein the structured first major surface and the structured second major surface each comprise a plurality of spaced apart protrusions forming a repeating pattern, each repeating pattern having a major axis, wherein the major axis comprises one of the major axes in the translational direction of the repeating pattern, and wherein the major axis of the repeating pattern on the second major surface forms an oblique angle with the major axis on the first major surface, wherein the angle is in the range of 10-90% of the angle of rotational symmetry of the repeating pattern. 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the flowable material composition comprises a unitary film. 17. The method of claim 16, wherein unitary film comprises a monolithic construction. 18. The method of claim 16, wherein the unitary film comprises a multi-layer construction. 19. The method of claim 15, wherein providing the flowable material composition comprises extrusion of a unitary film. 20. The method of claim 19, wherein extrusion comprises co-extrusion. 21. The method of claim 16, wherein the unitary film, prior to structuring, has a thickness of from 25-203 micrometers. 22. The method of claim 15, wherein each of the first and second structured surfaces comprises a plurality of parallel spaced apart ridges extending along a first direction intersecting a plurality of parallel spaced apart ridges extending along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction to form an array of cavities, each cavity being defined by four walls, the walls of the cavities on the first and second structured surfaces having a same height and width, the first direction in the first major surface forming an oblique angle in a range from 20° to 70° with the first direction in the second major surface. 23. The method of claim 22, wherein the array of cavities comprises a square array of cavities. 24. The method of claim 22, wherein the cavities in the first and second major surfaces are separated by a land having a land thickness of from 25-203 micrometers. | Film articles with dual-sided structures are ones in which both of the major surfaces of the film have a structured surface. The structured film articles have a first major surface and second major surface, where each surface has a plurality of spaced apart protrusions forming a repeating pattern. Each repeating pattern has a major axis, where the major axis is one of the major axes in the translational direction of the repeating pattern. The major axis of the repeating pattern on the second major surface forms an oblique angle with the major axis on the first major surface, where the angle is in the range of 10-90% of the angle of rotational symmetry of the repeating pattern. The structured film is a unitary substrate. The structured film articles are prepared by providing a flowable material composition having two major surfaces and simultaneously contacting the major surfaces with a first microstructuring tool, and a second microstructuring tool. Each microstructuring tool has a structured surface including a pattern of a plurality of depressions.1. A structured substrate comprising:
a first major surface and second major surface, wherein the first major surface and the second major surface each comprise a plurality of spaced apart protrusions forming a repeating pattern, each repeating pattern having a major axis, wherein the major axis comprises one of the major axes in the translational direction of the repeating pattern, and wherein the major axis of the repeating pattern on the second major surface forms an oblique angle with the major axis on the first major surface, wherein the angle is in the range of 10-90% of the angle of rotational symmetry of the repeating pattern, and wherein the structured substrate is a unitary substrate. 2. The structured substrate of claim 1, wherein the repeating pattern on the first major surface and/or the second major surface comprise any periodic geometric pattern. 3. The structured substrate of claim 2, wherein the periodic geometric pattern comprises a pattern of squares, a pattern of hexagons, a pattern of triangles, or a pattern of circles. 4. The structured substrate of claim 1, wherein the repeating pattern on the first major surface is the same as the repeating pattern on the second major surface. 5. The structured substrate of claim 1, wherein the repeating pattern on the first major surface is different from the repeating pattern on the second major surface. 6. The structured substrate of claim 1, wherein the angle is in the range of 20-80% of the angle of rotational symmetry of the repeating pattern. 7. The structured substrate of claim 1, wherein the repeating pattern on the first major surface and the repeating pattern on the second major surface form an array of cavities, and wherein the protrusions form the walls of the cavities. 8. The structured substrate of claim 7, wherein the array of cavities comprises an array of square cavities. 9. The structured substrate of claim 7, wherein the array of cavities comprises an array of hexagonal cavities. 10. The structured substrate of claim 7, wherein the array of cavities comprises an array of triangular cavities. 11. The structured substrate of claim 7, wherein the array of cavities comprises an array of circular cavities. 12. The structured substrate of claim 7, wherein in a cross sectional view along the first major axis, a first surface area is defined as the region of the first major surface comprising a protrusion and the cavity for which the protrusion forms one wall, a second surface area is defined as the region of the second major surface comprising a protrusion and the cavity for which the protrusion forms one wall, and a third surface area is defined as the land area between the first surface area and the second surface area, and wherein the ratio of the sum of the first surface area and the second surface area to the third surface area is 1:1 or greater. 13. The structured substrate of claim 1 being made by extrusion replication. 14. The structured substrate of claim 1, wherein the structured substrate comprises a uniform material composition. 15. A method of preparing an article comprising:
providing a flowable material composition comprising a first major surface and second major surface; providing a first microstructuring tool, the first microstructuring tool comprising a structured surface comprising a pattern comprising a plurality of depressions; providing a second microstructuring tool, the second microstructuring tool comprising a structured surface comprising a pattern comprising a plurality of depressions; and simultaneously contacting the first microstructuring tool to the first major surface of the flowable material composition and contacting the second microstructuring tool to the second major surface of the flowable material composition to form structured first and second major surfaces on the flowable material composition, wherein the structured first major surface and the structured second major surface each comprise a plurality of spaced apart protrusions forming a repeating pattern, each repeating pattern having a major axis, wherein the major axis comprises one of the major axes in the translational direction of the repeating pattern, and wherein the major axis of the repeating pattern on the second major surface forms an oblique angle with the major axis on the first major surface, wherein the angle is in the range of 10-90% of the angle of rotational symmetry of the repeating pattern. 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the flowable material composition comprises a unitary film. 17. The method of claim 16, wherein unitary film comprises a monolithic construction. 18. The method of claim 16, wherein the unitary film comprises a multi-layer construction. 19. The method of claim 15, wherein providing the flowable material composition comprises extrusion of a unitary film. 20. The method of claim 19, wherein extrusion comprises co-extrusion. 21. The method of claim 16, wherein the unitary film, prior to structuring, has a thickness of from 25-203 micrometers. 22. The method of claim 15, wherein each of the first and second structured surfaces comprises a plurality of parallel spaced apart ridges extending along a first direction intersecting a plurality of parallel spaced apart ridges extending along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction to form an array of cavities, each cavity being defined by four walls, the walls of the cavities on the first and second structured surfaces having a same height and width, the first direction in the first major surface forming an oblique angle in a range from 20° to 70° with the first direction in the second major surface. 23. The method of claim 22, wherein the array of cavities comprises a square array of cavities. 24. The method of claim 22, wherein the cavities in the first and second major surfaces are separated by a land having a land thickness of from 25-203 micrometers. | 1,700 |
4,082 | 14,673,340 | 1,768 | Solid proppants are coated with a phenol-urethane coating in one or more layers by a method comprising coating a proppant solid and then curing the coated proppant under conditions sufficient to substantially cure said proppant, wherein said coating comprises a substantially homogeneous mixture of (i) an isocyanate component having at least 2 isocyanate groups, (ii) an amine reactant, and optionally (iii) an amine that is a latent curing agent for said isocyanate. | 1-24. (canceled) 25. A coated proppant solid comprising a solid proppant core particle substantially covered with a isocyanate-polyol condensation reaction product,
wherein the isocyanate is in excess relative to the polyol and the polyol is a hydroxy-functional polyether. 26. The coated proppant solid of claim 25, wherein the proppant solid exhibits a low rate of flow back. 27. The coated proppant solid of claim 25, wherein the proppant solid has sufficiently high crush resistance to maintain conductivity in a subterranean fracture. 28. The coated proppant of claim 25, wherein the coating further comprises an adhesion agent. 29. The coated proppant of claim 25, wherein the coating further comprises a silane. 30. The coated proppant of claim 25, wherein the coating further comprises a surface-active agent. 31. The coated proppant of claim 25, wherein the coating further comprises a nanofiller. 32. The coated proppant of claim 25, wherein the solid proppant core particle is a ceramic core particle. 33. The coated proppant of claim 25, wherein the solid proppant core particle is a sand particle. 34. The coated proppant of claim 25, wherein the coating further comprises a pigment, dye, or tint. 35. The coated proppant of claim 25, wherein the coating further comprises mica. 36. A process for making the coated proppant solid of claim 25, the process comprising mixing a solid proppant core particle with an isocyanate and a polyol under conditions to coat the proppant solid with a isocyanate-polyol condensation reaction product,
wherein the polyol is a hydroxy-functional polyether and the isocyanate is in excess relative to the polyol. 37. The process of claim 36, wherein the isocyanate is present in an amount of 105-300 wt % of isocyanate base value relative to the weight of the polyol. 38. The process of claim 36, further comprising mixing the solid proppant core particle with an adhesion agent. 39. The process of claim 36, further comprising mixing the solid proppant core particle with a silane. 40. The process of claim 36, further comprising mixing the solid proppant core particle with a surface-active agent. 41. The process of claim 36, further comprising mixing the solid proppant core particle with a nanofiller. 42. The process of claim 36, wherein the solid proppant core particle is a sand particle or a ceramic particle. 43. The process of claim 36, further comprising mixing the solid proppant core particle with a pigment, dye, or tint. | Solid proppants are coated with a phenol-urethane coating in one or more layers by a method comprising coating a proppant solid and then curing the coated proppant under conditions sufficient to substantially cure said proppant, wherein said coating comprises a substantially homogeneous mixture of (i) an isocyanate component having at least 2 isocyanate groups, (ii) an amine reactant, and optionally (iii) an amine that is a latent curing agent for said isocyanate.1-24. (canceled) 25. A coated proppant solid comprising a solid proppant core particle substantially covered with a isocyanate-polyol condensation reaction product,
wherein the isocyanate is in excess relative to the polyol and the polyol is a hydroxy-functional polyether. 26. The coated proppant solid of claim 25, wherein the proppant solid exhibits a low rate of flow back. 27. The coated proppant solid of claim 25, wherein the proppant solid has sufficiently high crush resistance to maintain conductivity in a subterranean fracture. 28. The coated proppant of claim 25, wherein the coating further comprises an adhesion agent. 29. The coated proppant of claim 25, wherein the coating further comprises a silane. 30. The coated proppant of claim 25, wherein the coating further comprises a surface-active agent. 31. The coated proppant of claim 25, wherein the coating further comprises a nanofiller. 32. The coated proppant of claim 25, wherein the solid proppant core particle is a ceramic core particle. 33. The coated proppant of claim 25, wherein the solid proppant core particle is a sand particle. 34. The coated proppant of claim 25, wherein the coating further comprises a pigment, dye, or tint. 35. The coated proppant of claim 25, wherein the coating further comprises mica. 36. A process for making the coated proppant solid of claim 25, the process comprising mixing a solid proppant core particle with an isocyanate and a polyol under conditions to coat the proppant solid with a isocyanate-polyol condensation reaction product,
wherein the polyol is a hydroxy-functional polyether and the isocyanate is in excess relative to the polyol. 37. The process of claim 36, wherein the isocyanate is present in an amount of 105-300 wt % of isocyanate base value relative to the weight of the polyol. 38. The process of claim 36, further comprising mixing the solid proppant core particle with an adhesion agent. 39. The process of claim 36, further comprising mixing the solid proppant core particle with a silane. 40. The process of claim 36, further comprising mixing the solid proppant core particle with a surface-active agent. 41. The process of claim 36, further comprising mixing the solid proppant core particle with a nanofiller. 42. The process of claim 36, wherein the solid proppant core particle is a sand particle or a ceramic particle. 43. The process of claim 36, further comprising mixing the solid proppant core particle with a pigment, dye, or tint. | 1,700 |
4,083 | 15,021,487 | 1,744 | A method of molding is described in which a film and a substrate are positioned between first and second mold parts. The first mold part is compressed against the film and the second mold part is compressed against the substrate to form the film and substrate into a molded product. The compressing forms a texture in a surface of the film. | 1. A method of molding comprising:
positioning a film and a substrate between first and second mold parts; compressing the first mold part against the film and the second mold part against the substrate to form the film and substrate into a molded product, wherein the compressing forms a texture in a surface of the film. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the compressing changes the shape of the substrate. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein prior to the compressing, the film is connected to the substrate 30 form a preform. 4. The method of claim 3, comprising heating the film prior to connecting the film to the substrate. 5. The method of claim 1, comprising heating the film and/or substrate during the compressing. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the texture is a textured pattern. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the texture provides an anti-fingerprint, antibacterial, anti-scratch, metal-like, matt, visual and/or tactual effect to the surface. 8. The method of claim 1, comprising positioning a bonding layer between the film and substrate prior to the compressing. 9. The method of claim 2, wherein a bonding layer is connected between the film and the substrate to form the preform. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the substrate comprises a texture molded in a surface thereof. 11. The method of claim 1, wherein the molded product provides a casing or part of a casing for an electrical device. 12. A method of molding comprising:
compressing a substrate having a film connected to the substrate, wherein the compressing shapes the substrate and forms a texture in a surface of the film substantially at the same time. 13. A molded product formed by the method of claim 1. 14. Molding apparatus comprising:
a first mold part; and a second mold part; wherein the first and second mold parts are adapted to receive a film and a substrate therebetween and compress the film and the substrate to form a molded product, and wherein the first mold part comprises a mixture mold form such that, when the first and second mold parts compress the film and the substrate, a texture is formed in a surface of the film by the texture mold form. 15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the second mold part comprises a shape mold form such that, when the first and second mold parts compress the film and the substrate, a shape is formed in the substrate. | A method of molding is described in which a film and a substrate are positioned between first and second mold parts. The first mold part is compressed against the film and the second mold part is compressed against the substrate to form the film and substrate into a molded product. The compressing forms a texture in a surface of the film.1. A method of molding comprising:
positioning a film and a substrate between first and second mold parts; compressing the first mold part against the film and the second mold part against the substrate to form the film and substrate into a molded product, wherein the compressing forms a texture in a surface of the film. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the compressing changes the shape of the substrate. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein prior to the compressing, the film is connected to the substrate 30 form a preform. 4. The method of claim 3, comprising heating the film prior to connecting the film to the substrate. 5. The method of claim 1, comprising heating the film and/or substrate during the compressing. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the texture is a textured pattern. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the texture provides an anti-fingerprint, antibacterial, anti-scratch, metal-like, matt, visual and/or tactual effect to the surface. 8. The method of claim 1, comprising positioning a bonding layer between the film and substrate prior to the compressing. 9. The method of claim 2, wherein a bonding layer is connected between the film and the substrate to form the preform. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the substrate comprises a texture molded in a surface thereof. 11. The method of claim 1, wherein the molded product provides a casing or part of a casing for an electrical device. 12. A method of molding comprising:
compressing a substrate having a film connected to the substrate, wherein the compressing shapes the substrate and forms a texture in a surface of the film substantially at the same time. 13. A molded product formed by the method of claim 1. 14. Molding apparatus comprising:
a first mold part; and a second mold part; wherein the first and second mold parts are adapted to receive a film and a substrate therebetween and compress the film and the substrate to form a molded product, and wherein the first mold part comprises a mixture mold form such that, when the first and second mold parts compress the film and the substrate, a texture is formed in a surface of the film by the texture mold form. 15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the second mold part comprises a shape mold form such that, when the first and second mold parts compress the film and the substrate, a shape is formed in the substrate. | 1,700 |
4,084 | 15,312,485 | 1,746 | The invention relates to a method for forming an article comprising a pathway of particles wherein a termination of the pathway of particles is exposed. The method comprises arranging the particles by applying an electric field and/or a magnetic field at an interface between a water soluble or a non-water soluble matrix and a matrix comprising a viscous material and particles. After fixating the viscous material, the termination is exposed by dissolving the water soluble or non-water soluble matrix. The invention also relates to articles obtainable by said method, and to the use of said method in various applications. | 1. A method for arranging particles at an interface between at least one from the group consisting of a water soluble matrix and a non-water soluble matrix and a matrix comprising a viscous material and particles, said method comprising the steps of:
contacting at least one from the group consisting of the water soluble matrix and the non-water soluble matrix and the matrix comprising a viscous material and particles with a support comprising at least one side, said at least one side of the support facing at least one from the group consisting of the water soluble and the non-water soluble matrix and the matrix comprising a viscous material and particles; placing at least one from the group consisting of the water soluble matrix and the non-water soluble matrix in contact with the matrix comprising a viscous material and particles thereby providing a structure comprising at least one interface between at least one from the group consisting of the water soluble matrix and the non-water soluble matrix and said matrix comprising a viscous material and particles; subjecting the particles in the structure to at least one from the group consisting of an electric field and a magnetic field thereby forming the particles into at least one pathway of particles, said at least one pathway of particles comprising a termination at the at least one interface between at least one from the group consisting of the water soluble matrix and the non-water soluble matrix and the matrix comprising a viscous material and particles; and fixating the viscous material so as to fixate the at least one pathway of particles, said termination being exposed upon removal by dissolution of at least one from the group consisting of the water soluble matrix and the non-water soluble matrix. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the water soluble matrix comprises a water soluble material. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein at least one from the group consisting of the water soluble matrix and the non-water soluble matrix comprises particles. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein said at least one pathway of particles forms part of a network of particles. 5. The method according to claim 1, further comprising the step of subjecting the at least one side of the support to a surface modification technique selected from corona, plasma or flame treatment. 6. The method according to claim 1, further comprising the step of removing the support from at least one from the group consisting of the water soluble matrix and the non-water soluble matrix and the matrix comprising a viscous material and particles. 7. The method according to claim 1, wherein the water soluble matrix is removed by rinsing with at least one from the group consisting of water and an aqueous solution. 8. The method according to claim 1, wherein the non-water soluble matrix is removed by rinsing with at least one from the group consisting of acids, bases, and organic solvents such as alcohols, esters, ketones, aldehydes, ethers, and hydrocarbons. 9. The method according to claim 1, wherein the water soluble matrix comprises at least one from the group consisting of water soluble polymer selected from the group consisting of polyvinyl alcohol, cellulose ethers, polyethylene oxide, starch, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyacrylamide, polyvinyl methylether-maleic anhydride, polymaleic anhydride, styrene maleic anhydride, hydroxyethyl cellulose, methylcellulose, polyethylene glycols, carboxymethylcellulose, polyacrylicacid salts, alginates, acrylamide copolymers, guar gum, casein, ethylene-maleic anhydride resin, polyethyleneimine, ethyl hydroxyethylcellulose, ethyl methylcellulose, and hydroxyetyl methylcellulose. 10. The method according to claim 1, wherein the viscous material of the matrix comprising a viscous material and particles comprises at least one from the group consisting of an adhesive and an elastomeric material. 11. The method according to claim 1, wherein the particles comprise conductive particles such as particles of at least one from the group consisting of carbon, metal and metal alloys. 12. The method according to claim 1, wherein the at least one pathway of particles is an electrically conducting pathway of particles. 13. The particle according to the method of claim 1. | The invention relates to a method for forming an article comprising a pathway of particles wherein a termination of the pathway of particles is exposed. The method comprises arranging the particles by applying an electric field and/or a magnetic field at an interface between a water soluble or a non-water soluble matrix and a matrix comprising a viscous material and particles. After fixating the viscous material, the termination is exposed by dissolving the water soluble or non-water soluble matrix. The invention also relates to articles obtainable by said method, and to the use of said method in various applications.1. A method for arranging particles at an interface between at least one from the group consisting of a water soluble matrix and a non-water soluble matrix and a matrix comprising a viscous material and particles, said method comprising the steps of:
contacting at least one from the group consisting of the water soluble matrix and the non-water soluble matrix and the matrix comprising a viscous material and particles with a support comprising at least one side, said at least one side of the support facing at least one from the group consisting of the water soluble and the non-water soluble matrix and the matrix comprising a viscous material and particles; placing at least one from the group consisting of the water soluble matrix and the non-water soluble matrix in contact with the matrix comprising a viscous material and particles thereby providing a structure comprising at least one interface between at least one from the group consisting of the water soluble matrix and the non-water soluble matrix and said matrix comprising a viscous material and particles; subjecting the particles in the structure to at least one from the group consisting of an electric field and a magnetic field thereby forming the particles into at least one pathway of particles, said at least one pathway of particles comprising a termination at the at least one interface between at least one from the group consisting of the water soluble matrix and the non-water soluble matrix and the matrix comprising a viscous material and particles; and fixating the viscous material so as to fixate the at least one pathway of particles, said termination being exposed upon removal by dissolution of at least one from the group consisting of the water soluble matrix and the non-water soluble matrix. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the water soluble matrix comprises a water soluble material. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein at least one from the group consisting of the water soluble matrix and the non-water soluble matrix comprises particles. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein said at least one pathway of particles forms part of a network of particles. 5. The method according to claim 1, further comprising the step of subjecting the at least one side of the support to a surface modification technique selected from corona, plasma or flame treatment. 6. The method according to claim 1, further comprising the step of removing the support from at least one from the group consisting of the water soluble matrix and the non-water soluble matrix and the matrix comprising a viscous material and particles. 7. The method according to claim 1, wherein the water soluble matrix is removed by rinsing with at least one from the group consisting of water and an aqueous solution. 8. The method according to claim 1, wherein the non-water soluble matrix is removed by rinsing with at least one from the group consisting of acids, bases, and organic solvents such as alcohols, esters, ketones, aldehydes, ethers, and hydrocarbons. 9. The method according to claim 1, wherein the water soluble matrix comprises at least one from the group consisting of water soluble polymer selected from the group consisting of polyvinyl alcohol, cellulose ethers, polyethylene oxide, starch, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyacrylamide, polyvinyl methylether-maleic anhydride, polymaleic anhydride, styrene maleic anhydride, hydroxyethyl cellulose, methylcellulose, polyethylene glycols, carboxymethylcellulose, polyacrylicacid salts, alginates, acrylamide copolymers, guar gum, casein, ethylene-maleic anhydride resin, polyethyleneimine, ethyl hydroxyethylcellulose, ethyl methylcellulose, and hydroxyetyl methylcellulose. 10. The method according to claim 1, wherein the viscous material of the matrix comprising a viscous material and particles comprises at least one from the group consisting of an adhesive and an elastomeric material. 11. The method according to claim 1, wherein the particles comprise conductive particles such as particles of at least one from the group consisting of carbon, metal and metal alloys. 12. The method according to claim 1, wherein the at least one pathway of particles is an electrically conducting pathway of particles. 13. The particle according to the method of claim 1. | 1,700 |
4,085 | 14,639,986 | 1,798 | Methods and devices are provided for sample collection and sample separation. In one embodiment, a device is provided for use with a formed component liquid sample, the device comprising at least one sample inlet for receiving said sample; at least a first outlet for outputting only a liquid portion of the formed component liquid sample; at least a second outlet for outputting the formed component liquid sample at least a first material mixed therein. | 1-37. (canceled) 38. A device for collecting a bodily fluid sample, the device comprising:
a first portion comprising at least one fluid collection location leading to at least two sample collection pathways configured to draw the fluid sample therein via a first type of motive force; a second portion comprising a plurality of sample containers for receiving the bodily fluid sample collected in the sample collection pathways, the sample containers operably engagable to be in fluid communication with the sample collection pathways, whereupon when fluid communication is established, the containers provide a second motive force different from the first motive force to move a majority of the bodily fluid sample from the pathways into the containers; a separation material along one of the sample collection pathways, the material configured to remove formed components from the sample when outputting to at least one of the sample containers; wherein at least one of the sample collection pathways comprises a fill indicator to indicate when a minimum fill level has been reached and that at least one of the sample containers can be engaged to be in fluid communication with at least one of the sample collection pathways. 39. The device of claim 38 comprising a sample inlet configured to collect sample formed on a surface of the subject. 40. The device of claim 38 comprising a distributor positioned with the separation material to define an interface that provides a multi-mode sample propagation pattern wherein at least a first portion is propagating laterally within the separation material and a second portion is propagating through channels of the distributor over the separation material. 41. The device of claim 40 wherein the separation material and a distributor are configured to have an interface that provides a multi-mode sample propagation pattern wherein at least a first portion is propagating laterally within the separation material and a second portion is propagating through the channels of the distributor over the separation material. 42. The device of claim 40 wherein there is at least 50 mm2 surface area of separation material per 30 uL of sample to filter. 43. The device of claim 40 wherein there is at least 60 mm2 surface area of separation material per 30 uL of sample to filter. 44. The device of claim 40 wherein there is at least 70 mm2 surface area of separation material per 30 uL of sample to filter. 45. The device of claim 39 wherein the sample inlet directs the sample to primarily contact a planar portion of separation material surface, and not a lateral edge of the separation material. 46. The device of claim 38 wherein the amount of time for sample to fill a first of the pathways and reach a first outlet is substantially equal to the time for sample to fill a second of the pathways and reach a second outlet. 47. The device of claim 38 wherein the first pathway comprises a portion configured in a distributed pattern of channels over the filtration material to preferentially direct the sample over the surface of the separation material in a pre-determined configuration. 48. The device of claim 38 wherein at least a portion of the separation material is coupled to a vent which contacts the separation material in a manner that the vent is only accessible fluidically by passing through the separation material. 49. The device of claim 38 further comprising containers with interiors under vacuum pressure that draw sample therein. 50. The device of claim 38 wherein the separation material is held in the device under compression. 51. The device of claim 38 wherein the separation material comprises an asymmetric porous membrane. 52. The device of claim 38 wherein separation material is a mesh. 53. The device of claim 38 wherein at least a portion of the separation material comprises a polyethersulfone. 54. The device of claim 38 wherein at least a portion of the separation material comprises an asymmetric polyethersulfone. 55. The device of claim 40 wherein the channels have a cross-sectional shape characterized by a greater width than height. 56. The device of claim 40 wherein the channels are distributed in a pattern where at least some of the channels intersect other channels to form a grid pattern. 57. The device of claim 40 wherein at least portions of the distributor extend beyond an external perimeter of the separation material. | Methods and devices are provided for sample collection and sample separation. In one embodiment, a device is provided for use with a formed component liquid sample, the device comprising at least one sample inlet for receiving said sample; at least a first outlet for outputting only a liquid portion of the formed component liquid sample; at least a second outlet for outputting the formed component liquid sample at least a first material mixed therein.1-37. (canceled) 38. A device for collecting a bodily fluid sample, the device comprising:
a first portion comprising at least one fluid collection location leading to at least two sample collection pathways configured to draw the fluid sample therein via a first type of motive force; a second portion comprising a plurality of sample containers for receiving the bodily fluid sample collected in the sample collection pathways, the sample containers operably engagable to be in fluid communication with the sample collection pathways, whereupon when fluid communication is established, the containers provide a second motive force different from the first motive force to move a majority of the bodily fluid sample from the pathways into the containers; a separation material along one of the sample collection pathways, the material configured to remove formed components from the sample when outputting to at least one of the sample containers; wherein at least one of the sample collection pathways comprises a fill indicator to indicate when a minimum fill level has been reached and that at least one of the sample containers can be engaged to be in fluid communication with at least one of the sample collection pathways. 39. The device of claim 38 comprising a sample inlet configured to collect sample formed on a surface of the subject. 40. The device of claim 38 comprising a distributor positioned with the separation material to define an interface that provides a multi-mode sample propagation pattern wherein at least a first portion is propagating laterally within the separation material and a second portion is propagating through channels of the distributor over the separation material. 41. The device of claim 40 wherein the separation material and a distributor are configured to have an interface that provides a multi-mode sample propagation pattern wherein at least a first portion is propagating laterally within the separation material and a second portion is propagating through the channels of the distributor over the separation material. 42. The device of claim 40 wherein there is at least 50 mm2 surface area of separation material per 30 uL of sample to filter. 43. The device of claim 40 wherein there is at least 60 mm2 surface area of separation material per 30 uL of sample to filter. 44. The device of claim 40 wherein there is at least 70 mm2 surface area of separation material per 30 uL of sample to filter. 45. The device of claim 39 wherein the sample inlet directs the sample to primarily contact a planar portion of separation material surface, and not a lateral edge of the separation material. 46. The device of claim 38 wherein the amount of time for sample to fill a first of the pathways and reach a first outlet is substantially equal to the time for sample to fill a second of the pathways and reach a second outlet. 47. The device of claim 38 wherein the first pathway comprises a portion configured in a distributed pattern of channels over the filtration material to preferentially direct the sample over the surface of the separation material in a pre-determined configuration. 48. The device of claim 38 wherein at least a portion of the separation material is coupled to a vent which contacts the separation material in a manner that the vent is only accessible fluidically by passing through the separation material. 49. The device of claim 38 further comprising containers with interiors under vacuum pressure that draw sample therein. 50. The device of claim 38 wherein the separation material is held in the device under compression. 51. The device of claim 38 wherein the separation material comprises an asymmetric porous membrane. 52. The device of claim 38 wherein separation material is a mesh. 53. The device of claim 38 wherein at least a portion of the separation material comprises a polyethersulfone. 54. The device of claim 38 wherein at least a portion of the separation material comprises an asymmetric polyethersulfone. 55. The device of claim 40 wherein the channels have a cross-sectional shape characterized by a greater width than height. 56. The device of claim 40 wherein the channels are distributed in a pattern where at least some of the channels intersect other channels to form a grid pattern. 57. The device of claim 40 wherein at least portions of the distributor extend beyond an external perimeter of the separation material. | 1,700 |
4,086 | 15,091,607 | 1,788 | Liner having an induction heat sealable layer for sealing to a rim of a container, and a pull tab for ease of removal of the liner from the container rim. A folded insert disposed between multilayer upper and lower components, has a heat bondable polyolefin layer that is thermally laminated to polyolefin layers of the upper and lower components, forming a pull tab between the integrated polyolefin layers. The resulting composite resists delamination and can be formed in a single thermal lamination step, avoiding the multiple lamination steps, associated high equipment costs, and complex layer constructions of the prior art. | 1. A liner comprising:
three stacked multilayer components thermally laminated together to form a composite liner, the liner having an induction heat sealable lower layer for sealing to a rim of a container and a pull tab for ease of removal of the liner from the rim of the container, the three multilayer components comprising:
an upper multilayer component (UMC) comprising an upper support layer and a lower heat bondable polyolefin layer; and
a lower multilayer component (LMC) comprising an upper heat bondable polyolefin layer, the lower induction heat sealable layer, and an inductive heating layer therebetween;
a folded insert comprising upper and lower multilayer insert portions joined at a fold line, each insert portion comprising an outer heat bondable polyolefin layer and an inner heat resistant separable layer wherein in a folded position the inner separable layers of the insert portions are facing one another and resist bonding by thermal lamination and induction heating to form the pull tab in the liner,
the liner being formed by a method comprising:
in a first area of the liner the UMC and LMC polyolefin layers are disposed facing one another and are thermally laminated by application of heat and pressure to form an integral polyolefin layer of a non-separable first liner portion; and
in a second area of the liner the polyolefin layers of the upper and lower insert portions are disposed facing the UMC and LMC polyolefin layers respectively and thermally laminated, by application of heat and pressure, to form integral polyolefin layers in a second liner portion having the pull tab. 2. The liner of claim 1 wherein the folded insert is formed from a multilayer tube or sheet comprising the heat bondable polyolefin layer and the heat resistant separable layer, the folded insert formed by a method comprising:
radially collapsing the tube or folding the sheet to form the fold line and insert portions on opposite sides of the fold line. 3. The liner of claim 1, wherein the liner has a substantially circular perimeter and the fold line intersects and extends across the circular perimeter at a length equal to or less than a diameter of the circular perimeter. 4. The liner of claim 1, wherein the support layer is formed from one or more of polyethylene terephthalate, polyamide, polyethylene naphthalate, polypropylene, or any combination thereof. 5. The liner of claim 1, wherein the folded insert is formed from a multilayer tube, the tube having an outer tube layer comprising the outer polyolefin layer of the insert, and the tube having an inner layer comprising the separable layer of the insert, the tube being collapsed to form the fold line and cut to form a folded tube portion that comprises the folded insert. 6. The liner of claim 1, wherein the liner is punched from a thermally laminated web of the three multilayer components. 7. The liner of claim 1, wherein the polyolefin layers of the liner are thermally laminated by at least partially melting the adjacent polyolefin layers. 8. The liner of claim 1, wherein the polyolefin layers of the liner are formed from at least one of an ethylene-based polymer and a propylene-based polymer. 9. The liner of claim 8, wherein the ethylene-based polymer is an ethylene-alpha olefin copolymer and the propylene-based polymer is a propylene-alpha olefin copolymer. 10. The liner of claim 1, wherein the polyolefin layers of the liner are formed from at least one of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) based polymers, ethylene-methyl acrylate (EMA) based polymers, and ethylene-ethyl acrylate (EEA) based polymers. 11. The liner of claim 1, wherein the polyolefin layers of the liner comprise polypropylene, polyethylene, and copolymers and blends thereof. 12. The liner of claim 1, wherein the inductive heating layer comprises a metal foil layer. 13. The liner of claim 1, wherein the multiplayer components are formed by one or more of extrusion, coextrusion, extrusion coating, extrusion lamination, and dry bond lamination. 14. A method of forming a liner comprising:
thermally laminating together three stacked multi-layer components to form a composite liner, the liner having an induction heat sealable lower layer for sealing to a rim of a container and a pull tab for ease of removal of the liner from the rim of the container, the three multi-layer components comprising:
an upper multilayer component (UMC) comprising an upper support layer and a lower heat bondable polyolefin layer; and
a lower multilayer component (LMC) comprising an upper heat bondable polyolefin layer, the lower induction heat sealable layer, and an inductive heating layer therebetween;
a folded polymer insert comprising upper and lower multilayer insert portions joined at a fold line, each insert portion comprising an outer heat bondable polyolefin layer and an inner heat resistant separable layer wherein in a folded position the inner separable layers of the two insert portions are facing one another and resist bonding by thermal lamination and induction heating to form the pull tab in the liner,
wherein the method includes:
disposing a first area of the UMC and LMC polyolefin layers facing one another,
disposing the folded insert between a second area of the UMC and LMC polyolefin layers with the polyolefin layers of the upper and lower insert portions disposed facing the UMC and LMC polyolefin layers respectively, and
forming a non-separable first liner portion by thermally laminating the facing polyolefin layers in the first area by application of heat and pressure to form an integral polyolefin layer, and
forming a second liner portion having the pull tab by thermally laminating the facing polyolefin layers in the second area by application of heat and pressure to form integral polyolefin layers in the second liner portion. 15. The method of claim 14, wherein the polyolefin layers of the liner are formed from at least one of an ethylene-based polymer and a propylene-based polymer. 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the ethylene-based polymer is an ethylene-alpha olefin copolymer and the propylene-based polymer is a propylene-alpha olefin copolymer. 17. The method of claim 14, wherein the polyolefin layers are formed from at least one of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) based polymers, ethylene-methyl acrylate (EMA) based polymers, and ethylene-ethyl acrylate (EEA) based polymers. 18. The method of claim 14, wherein the polyolefin layers comprise polypropylene, polyethylene, and copolymers and blends thereof. 19. The method of claim 14, wherein the folded insert is formed from a multilayer tube or sheet comprising the heat bondable polyolefin layer and the heat resistant separable layer, the folded insert formed by a method comprising:
radially collapsing the tube or folding the sheet to form the fold line and insert portions on opposite sides of the fold line. 20. The method of claim 14, wherein the multilayer components are formed by one or more of extrusion, coextrusion, extrusion coating, extrusion lamination, and dry bond lamination. 21. The method of forming the liner of claim 14, wherein the method comprises:
providing the stacked three multilayer components; and forming the integral polyolefin layers in a single thermal laminating step. 22. The method of claim 21, wherein the UMC is formed, prior to the thermal laminating step, by one or more of extrusion, coextrusion, extrusion coating, extrusion lamination, and dry bond lamination. 23. The method of claim 21, wherein the LMC is formed, prior to the thermal laminating step, by one or more of extrusion, coextrusion, extrusion coating, extrusion lamination, and dry bond lamination. 24. The method of claim 21, wherein the folded insert is formed from a multilayer tube or sheet comprising the heat bondable polyolefin layer and the heat resistant separable layer, the folded insert formed by a method comprising:
radially collapsing the tube or folding the sheet to form the fold line and insert portions on opposite sides of the fold line. 25. The method of claim 21, wherein the polyolefin layers of the UMC, folded polymer insert and are partially melted while pressing between rollers to form the integral polyolefin layers of the liner. 26. The method of claim 25, wherein at least one of the rollers is heated. | Liner having an induction heat sealable layer for sealing to a rim of a container, and a pull tab for ease of removal of the liner from the container rim. A folded insert disposed between multilayer upper and lower components, has a heat bondable polyolefin layer that is thermally laminated to polyolefin layers of the upper and lower components, forming a pull tab between the integrated polyolefin layers. The resulting composite resists delamination and can be formed in a single thermal lamination step, avoiding the multiple lamination steps, associated high equipment costs, and complex layer constructions of the prior art.1. A liner comprising:
three stacked multilayer components thermally laminated together to form a composite liner, the liner having an induction heat sealable lower layer for sealing to a rim of a container and a pull tab for ease of removal of the liner from the rim of the container, the three multilayer components comprising:
an upper multilayer component (UMC) comprising an upper support layer and a lower heat bondable polyolefin layer; and
a lower multilayer component (LMC) comprising an upper heat bondable polyolefin layer, the lower induction heat sealable layer, and an inductive heating layer therebetween;
a folded insert comprising upper and lower multilayer insert portions joined at a fold line, each insert portion comprising an outer heat bondable polyolefin layer and an inner heat resistant separable layer wherein in a folded position the inner separable layers of the insert portions are facing one another and resist bonding by thermal lamination and induction heating to form the pull tab in the liner,
the liner being formed by a method comprising:
in a first area of the liner the UMC and LMC polyolefin layers are disposed facing one another and are thermally laminated by application of heat and pressure to form an integral polyolefin layer of a non-separable first liner portion; and
in a second area of the liner the polyolefin layers of the upper and lower insert portions are disposed facing the UMC and LMC polyolefin layers respectively and thermally laminated, by application of heat and pressure, to form integral polyolefin layers in a second liner portion having the pull tab. 2. The liner of claim 1 wherein the folded insert is formed from a multilayer tube or sheet comprising the heat bondable polyolefin layer and the heat resistant separable layer, the folded insert formed by a method comprising:
radially collapsing the tube or folding the sheet to form the fold line and insert portions on opposite sides of the fold line. 3. The liner of claim 1, wherein the liner has a substantially circular perimeter and the fold line intersects and extends across the circular perimeter at a length equal to or less than a diameter of the circular perimeter. 4. The liner of claim 1, wherein the support layer is formed from one or more of polyethylene terephthalate, polyamide, polyethylene naphthalate, polypropylene, or any combination thereof. 5. The liner of claim 1, wherein the folded insert is formed from a multilayer tube, the tube having an outer tube layer comprising the outer polyolefin layer of the insert, and the tube having an inner layer comprising the separable layer of the insert, the tube being collapsed to form the fold line and cut to form a folded tube portion that comprises the folded insert. 6. The liner of claim 1, wherein the liner is punched from a thermally laminated web of the three multilayer components. 7. The liner of claim 1, wherein the polyolefin layers of the liner are thermally laminated by at least partially melting the adjacent polyolefin layers. 8. The liner of claim 1, wherein the polyolefin layers of the liner are formed from at least one of an ethylene-based polymer and a propylene-based polymer. 9. The liner of claim 8, wherein the ethylene-based polymer is an ethylene-alpha olefin copolymer and the propylene-based polymer is a propylene-alpha olefin copolymer. 10. The liner of claim 1, wherein the polyolefin layers of the liner are formed from at least one of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) based polymers, ethylene-methyl acrylate (EMA) based polymers, and ethylene-ethyl acrylate (EEA) based polymers. 11. The liner of claim 1, wherein the polyolefin layers of the liner comprise polypropylene, polyethylene, and copolymers and blends thereof. 12. The liner of claim 1, wherein the inductive heating layer comprises a metal foil layer. 13. The liner of claim 1, wherein the multiplayer components are formed by one or more of extrusion, coextrusion, extrusion coating, extrusion lamination, and dry bond lamination. 14. A method of forming a liner comprising:
thermally laminating together three stacked multi-layer components to form a composite liner, the liner having an induction heat sealable lower layer for sealing to a rim of a container and a pull tab for ease of removal of the liner from the rim of the container, the three multi-layer components comprising:
an upper multilayer component (UMC) comprising an upper support layer and a lower heat bondable polyolefin layer; and
a lower multilayer component (LMC) comprising an upper heat bondable polyolefin layer, the lower induction heat sealable layer, and an inductive heating layer therebetween;
a folded polymer insert comprising upper and lower multilayer insert portions joined at a fold line, each insert portion comprising an outer heat bondable polyolefin layer and an inner heat resistant separable layer wherein in a folded position the inner separable layers of the two insert portions are facing one another and resist bonding by thermal lamination and induction heating to form the pull tab in the liner,
wherein the method includes:
disposing a first area of the UMC and LMC polyolefin layers facing one another,
disposing the folded insert between a second area of the UMC and LMC polyolefin layers with the polyolefin layers of the upper and lower insert portions disposed facing the UMC and LMC polyolefin layers respectively, and
forming a non-separable first liner portion by thermally laminating the facing polyolefin layers in the first area by application of heat and pressure to form an integral polyolefin layer, and
forming a second liner portion having the pull tab by thermally laminating the facing polyolefin layers in the second area by application of heat and pressure to form integral polyolefin layers in the second liner portion. 15. The method of claim 14, wherein the polyolefin layers of the liner are formed from at least one of an ethylene-based polymer and a propylene-based polymer. 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the ethylene-based polymer is an ethylene-alpha olefin copolymer and the propylene-based polymer is a propylene-alpha olefin copolymer. 17. The method of claim 14, wherein the polyolefin layers are formed from at least one of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) based polymers, ethylene-methyl acrylate (EMA) based polymers, and ethylene-ethyl acrylate (EEA) based polymers. 18. The method of claim 14, wherein the polyolefin layers comprise polypropylene, polyethylene, and copolymers and blends thereof. 19. The method of claim 14, wherein the folded insert is formed from a multilayer tube or sheet comprising the heat bondable polyolefin layer and the heat resistant separable layer, the folded insert formed by a method comprising:
radially collapsing the tube or folding the sheet to form the fold line and insert portions on opposite sides of the fold line. 20. The method of claim 14, wherein the multilayer components are formed by one or more of extrusion, coextrusion, extrusion coating, extrusion lamination, and dry bond lamination. 21. The method of forming the liner of claim 14, wherein the method comprises:
providing the stacked three multilayer components; and forming the integral polyolefin layers in a single thermal laminating step. 22. The method of claim 21, wherein the UMC is formed, prior to the thermal laminating step, by one or more of extrusion, coextrusion, extrusion coating, extrusion lamination, and dry bond lamination. 23. The method of claim 21, wherein the LMC is formed, prior to the thermal laminating step, by one or more of extrusion, coextrusion, extrusion coating, extrusion lamination, and dry bond lamination. 24. The method of claim 21, wherein the folded insert is formed from a multilayer tube or sheet comprising the heat bondable polyolefin layer and the heat resistant separable layer, the folded insert formed by a method comprising:
radially collapsing the tube or folding the sheet to form the fold line and insert portions on opposite sides of the fold line. 25. The method of claim 21, wherein the polyolefin layers of the UMC, folded polymer insert and are partially melted while pressing between rollers to form the integral polyolefin layers of the liner. 26. The method of claim 25, wherein at least one of the rollers is heated. | 1,700 |
4,087 | 13,133,555 | 1,742 | A method for producing a reinforced concrete part, having a tensioned portion subjected to pull stresses and tending to stretch under the load, and which includes a reinforcing frame with at least one tensioned longitudinal bar rigidly connected to the concrete by an adhesive connection that determines a tangential adhesive stress along the bar that varies on the basis of applied pull stresses. Each tensioned longitudinal bar has, on at least one portion of the length thereof, a discontinuous series of spaced blocking areas that each include a plurality of elements for anchoring into the concrete and which are separated from each other by a series of sliding areas, in each of which an increase in the adhesion stress above a limit value causes the bar to disengage, without disrupting the concrete, on at least a portion of the length between the two blocking areas with an extension of the bar corresponding to applied pull stresses, the extension being distributed over the entire length of the disengaged portion of the bar. | 1. A method for producing a reinforced concrete part (1) comprising, on either side of a neutral line (10), a compressed portion (C) and a tensioned portion (T) subjected to tensile stresses and having a tendency to elongate under the effect of the load supported by the part, and in which is embedded a reinforcing frame (2) comprising, in the tensioned portion, at least one tensioned longitudinal bar (21) securely attached to the concrete by a adhesion link determining, along said bar (21), a tangential adhesion stress varying according to the tensile stresses applied, respectively, to the bar (21) and to the coating concrete (16), an increase in the tensile stress in the concrete above a limit value causing at least one crack (3) to open with a transfer of the tensile stress to the bar (21) and a corresponding elongation thereof, a method in which, at least in the most stressed portion of the part, said tensioned bar (21) is provided with a plurality of spaced anchoring means (23) forming abutments bearing on the coating concrete (16), characterized in that the anchoring means (23) of the bar (21) are distributed in a discontinuous series of spaced blocking areas (25) each comprising a plurality of anchoring means (23) and separated from one another by slippage areas (26) with no anchoring means, in each of which a local increase in the tensile differential between the bar (21) and the concrete above a limit value results in a detachment of the bar (21) relative to the concrete (16) that coats it, over at least a portion (27) of the length of said slippage area (26) between two blocking areas (25 a, 25′a), said detached portion (27) being able to elongate without disturbing the coating concrete (16) under the effect of the tensile stresses applied to the tensioned bar (21). 2. The method as claimed in claim 1, in which, the part (1) comprising, in the concrete (15), areas of weakness inherent to the quality of the concrete and randomly distributed, at the level of which an increase in the tensile stresses apply above the yield strength of the concrete causes, in the most stressed portion of the part, the appearance of at least one localized crack (3) at least in line with one of said areas of weakness, the opening of said crack (3) determining, at this level, the cancellation of the tensile stress in the concrete and a correlative local increase in the tensile force applied to the reinforcing bar (21), with a corresponding increase in the tendency of the latter to elongate under the effect of the stresses applied, characterized in that the local increase in the tensile force on the bar (21), at the level of a crack (3), determines a detachment of the bar (21) relative to the coating concrete (16), at least in the slippage area (26 a) that is closest to said crack (3) and over a length (d′) such that the detachment force of the bar (21) relative to the concrete (16) at least partially compensates the tensile differential between the two materials when this differential causes the adhesion stress to be exceeded over the length concerned. 3. The method as claimed in claim 2, characterized in that, a portion of the tensile differential at the level of a crack (3) being compensated by the detachment of the concrete (16) in a first slippage area (26), the remaining additional traction applied to the bar (21) is absorbed, at least partly, by the adjacent blocking area (25′a) extending beyond the first slippage area (26 a), on the side opposite to the crack (3). 4. The method as claimed in claim 3, characterized in that, from the appearance of a first crack (3) in a first area of weakness, the reinforcing bar (21) detaches from the coating concrete in at least one first slippage area (26 a), closest to said crack (3), and that an increase in the tensile stresses applied successively determines the opening of at least one secondary crack (31) in another area of weakness of the concrete of the part (1) and the detachment of the bar (21) in at least one other slippage area (26 b), closest to said secondary crack (31), and so on as the tensile stresses increase, the sum of the thicknesses of the first crack (3) and of the secondary cracks (31, 32, . . . ) open at a determined instant being dependent on the increase in the elongation of the bar resulting from the increase in the stresses applied at that instant and this increase in the elongation being distributed over all the detached slippage areas (26 a, 26 b, . . . ), as and when the secondary cracks (31, 32, . . . ) appear. 5. The method as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, in the case where a first crack (3) is formed at the level of a first slippage area (26 a), the local increase in the tensile stress applied to the tensioned bar (21) resulting from the opening of the crack (3) results in a detachment of the bar (21) on either side of said crack (3) over a total length (d′) for which the detachment force of the bar (21) relative to the concrete at least partly compensates for the tensile differential between the two materials. 6. The method as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, in the case where a first crack (3) is formed at the level of a first blocking area (25 a), by causing a local increase in the pull applied to the tensioned bar (21), at least one first part of this pull increase is absorbed by the two portions of the first blocking area (25 a) extending on either side of the crack (3) and the remaining portion of the pull increase on the bar (21) is compensated by the detachment force of the tensioned bar (21) relative to the concrete at least over a portion of the closest slippage area. 7. The method as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that the number, the length and the distribution of the blocking areas (25) and the corresponding lengths of the slippage areas (26) are determined according to the distribution and the predictable values of the tensile stresses along each tensioned bar (21), given the loads applied, so that the thickness of each of the cracks (3, 31, 32, . . . ) does not exceed a given limit. 8. The method as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that the relative lengths of the blocking areas (25) and of the slippage areas (26) distributed along each tensioned bar (21) are determined by taking account their position, so as to give to the part (1) the necessary stiffness to remain within a range of values allowed for the deflection of the part under a given load. 9. The method as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that each blocking area extends over a length that is at least equal to a so-called sealing length (l0) of the bar (21) determining an adhesion stress that is at least equal to the maximum tensile stress that is acceptable for the bar (21). 10. The method as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that each blocking area extends over a length less than twice a sealing length (l0) of the reinforcing bar for which said bar (21) supports, without displacement relative to the coating concrete, a tensile force that can reach the yield strength of the bar. 11. The method as claimed in claim 9, characterized in that each slippage area extends over a length less than the sealing length (l′0) of a smooth bar with equivalent round section. 12. The method as claimed in claim 11, characterized in that each slippage area (26) extends over a length of the order of 5 to 30 mm. 13. A reinforced concrete method for implementing the method as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that each slippage area (26) of a tensioned longitudinal bar (21) has a smooth outer surface in the longitudinal direction. 14. The method as claimed in claim 13, characterized in that, each tensioned longitudinal bar (21) having, in transversal section, the area necessary for the desired tensile strength, the profile of said bar (21), in each slippage area (26), is adapted so as to give it the necessary perimeter for the contact surface between the bar and the concrete to provide a link by bonding and friction that makes it possible to reach the desired limit value of the tangential adhesion stress in said slippage area (26). 15. The method as claimed in claim 14, characterized in that each tensioned longitudinal bar (21) has, in transversal section, a flattened profile with a width greater than the thickness, so as to increase its perimeter relative to that of an equivalent circular bar having the same transversal area. 16. The method as claimed in claim 15, characterized in that each tensioned longitudinal bar (21) has, in transversal section, a corrugated profile with longitudinal portions, recessed and protruding, extending parallel to the axis of the bar, over the entire length of each slippage area (26). 17. The method as claimed in claim 14, characterized in that, in each slippage area (26), the outer face of the bar includes a layer of particles detachably fixed to the outer surface of the bar and extending so as to protrude into the coating concrete so as to increase the adhesion link with the concrete and the limit value of the adhesion stress from which an increase in the tensile stresses results in the detachment of the bar, said particles being progressively detached one after the other from the bar, by remaining included in the concrete, as the tensile stresses increase, so as to maintain the adhesion stress at its limit value over a range of increase of said tensile stresses. 18. The method as claimed in claim 17, characterized in that the particles are fixed by gluing to the outer surface of the bar. 19. The method as claimed in claim 17, characterized in that the particles are dusted and applied under pressure to the outer surface of the bar at high temperature, at the output of the mill. 20. The method as claimed in claim 17, characterized in that the particles consist of chippings, metal balls or filings and are fixed to the outer surface of the bar by contact electro-welding. 21. The method as claimed in claim 17, characterized in that the particles fixed to the outer surface of each slippage area of the bar have varied dimensions so as to be progressively detached, depending on the size of the fixed portion, as and when the tensile stresses applied increase. 22. A reinforced concrete part produced by the method as claimed in claim 1 and comprising a reinforcing frame (2) embedded in molded concrete (15) and including at least one tensioned longitudinal bar (21) of the high-adhesion type, along which are formed a plurality of spaced anchoring means (23) forming abutments bearing on the coating concrete (16), characterized in that the anchoring means of the bar (21) are distributed in a discontinuous series of spaced blocking areas (25) each comprising a plurality of anchoring means (23) and separated from one another by slippage areas (26) without anchoring means, in each of which a local increase in the tensile differential between the bar (21) and the concrete (16) above a limit value results in a detachment of the
bar (21) relative to the concrete (16) that coats it, over at least a portion (27) of the length of said slippage area (26) between two blocking areas (25 a, 25′a), said detached portion (27) being able to elongate without disturbing the coating concrete (16) under the effect of the tensile stresses applied to the tensioned bar | A method for producing a reinforced concrete part, having a tensioned portion subjected to pull stresses and tending to stretch under the load, and which includes a reinforcing frame with at least one tensioned longitudinal bar rigidly connected to the concrete by an adhesive connection that determines a tangential adhesive stress along the bar that varies on the basis of applied pull stresses. Each tensioned longitudinal bar has, on at least one portion of the length thereof, a discontinuous series of spaced blocking areas that each include a plurality of elements for anchoring into the concrete and which are separated from each other by a series of sliding areas, in each of which an increase in the adhesion stress above a limit value causes the bar to disengage, without disrupting the concrete, on at least a portion of the length between the two blocking areas with an extension of the bar corresponding to applied pull stresses, the extension being distributed over the entire length of the disengaged portion of the bar.1. A method for producing a reinforced concrete part (1) comprising, on either side of a neutral line (10), a compressed portion (C) and a tensioned portion (T) subjected to tensile stresses and having a tendency to elongate under the effect of the load supported by the part, and in which is embedded a reinforcing frame (2) comprising, in the tensioned portion, at least one tensioned longitudinal bar (21) securely attached to the concrete by a adhesion link determining, along said bar (21), a tangential adhesion stress varying according to the tensile stresses applied, respectively, to the bar (21) and to the coating concrete (16), an increase in the tensile stress in the concrete above a limit value causing at least one crack (3) to open with a transfer of the tensile stress to the bar (21) and a corresponding elongation thereof, a method in which, at least in the most stressed portion of the part, said tensioned bar (21) is provided with a plurality of spaced anchoring means (23) forming abutments bearing on the coating concrete (16), characterized in that the anchoring means (23) of the bar (21) are distributed in a discontinuous series of spaced blocking areas (25) each comprising a plurality of anchoring means (23) and separated from one another by slippage areas (26) with no anchoring means, in each of which a local increase in the tensile differential between the bar (21) and the concrete above a limit value results in a detachment of the bar (21) relative to the concrete (16) that coats it, over at least a portion (27) of the length of said slippage area (26) between two blocking areas (25 a, 25′a), said detached portion (27) being able to elongate without disturbing the coating concrete (16) under the effect of the tensile stresses applied to the tensioned bar (21). 2. The method as claimed in claim 1, in which, the part (1) comprising, in the concrete (15), areas of weakness inherent to the quality of the concrete and randomly distributed, at the level of which an increase in the tensile stresses apply above the yield strength of the concrete causes, in the most stressed portion of the part, the appearance of at least one localized crack (3) at least in line with one of said areas of weakness, the opening of said crack (3) determining, at this level, the cancellation of the tensile stress in the concrete and a correlative local increase in the tensile force applied to the reinforcing bar (21), with a corresponding increase in the tendency of the latter to elongate under the effect of the stresses applied, characterized in that the local increase in the tensile force on the bar (21), at the level of a crack (3), determines a detachment of the bar (21) relative to the coating concrete (16), at least in the slippage area (26 a) that is closest to said crack (3) and over a length (d′) such that the detachment force of the bar (21) relative to the concrete (16) at least partially compensates the tensile differential between the two materials when this differential causes the adhesion stress to be exceeded over the length concerned. 3. The method as claimed in claim 2, characterized in that, a portion of the tensile differential at the level of a crack (3) being compensated by the detachment of the concrete (16) in a first slippage area (26), the remaining additional traction applied to the bar (21) is absorbed, at least partly, by the adjacent blocking area (25′a) extending beyond the first slippage area (26 a), on the side opposite to the crack (3). 4. The method as claimed in claim 3, characterized in that, from the appearance of a first crack (3) in a first area of weakness, the reinforcing bar (21) detaches from the coating concrete in at least one first slippage area (26 a), closest to said crack (3), and that an increase in the tensile stresses applied successively determines the opening of at least one secondary crack (31) in another area of weakness of the concrete of the part (1) and the detachment of the bar (21) in at least one other slippage area (26 b), closest to said secondary crack (31), and so on as the tensile stresses increase, the sum of the thicknesses of the first crack (3) and of the secondary cracks (31, 32, . . . ) open at a determined instant being dependent on the increase in the elongation of the bar resulting from the increase in the stresses applied at that instant and this increase in the elongation being distributed over all the detached slippage areas (26 a, 26 b, . . . ), as and when the secondary cracks (31, 32, . . . ) appear. 5. The method as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, in the case where a first crack (3) is formed at the level of a first slippage area (26 a), the local increase in the tensile stress applied to the tensioned bar (21) resulting from the opening of the crack (3) results in a detachment of the bar (21) on either side of said crack (3) over a total length (d′) for which the detachment force of the bar (21) relative to the concrete at least partly compensates for the tensile differential between the two materials. 6. The method as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, in the case where a first crack (3) is formed at the level of a first blocking area (25 a), by causing a local increase in the pull applied to the tensioned bar (21), at least one first part of this pull increase is absorbed by the two portions of the first blocking area (25 a) extending on either side of the crack (3) and the remaining portion of the pull increase on the bar (21) is compensated by the detachment force of the tensioned bar (21) relative to the concrete at least over a portion of the closest slippage area. 7. The method as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that the number, the length and the distribution of the blocking areas (25) and the corresponding lengths of the slippage areas (26) are determined according to the distribution and the predictable values of the tensile stresses along each tensioned bar (21), given the loads applied, so that the thickness of each of the cracks (3, 31, 32, . . . ) does not exceed a given limit. 8. The method as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that the relative lengths of the blocking areas (25) and of the slippage areas (26) distributed along each tensioned bar (21) are determined by taking account their position, so as to give to the part (1) the necessary stiffness to remain within a range of values allowed for the deflection of the part under a given load. 9. The method as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that each blocking area extends over a length that is at least equal to a so-called sealing length (l0) of the bar (21) determining an adhesion stress that is at least equal to the maximum tensile stress that is acceptable for the bar (21). 10. The method as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that each blocking area extends over a length less than twice a sealing length (l0) of the reinforcing bar for which said bar (21) supports, without displacement relative to the coating concrete, a tensile force that can reach the yield strength of the bar. 11. The method as claimed in claim 9, characterized in that each slippage area extends over a length less than the sealing length (l′0) of a smooth bar with equivalent round section. 12. The method as claimed in claim 11, characterized in that each slippage area (26) extends over a length of the order of 5 to 30 mm. 13. A reinforced concrete method for implementing the method as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that each slippage area (26) of a tensioned longitudinal bar (21) has a smooth outer surface in the longitudinal direction. 14. The method as claimed in claim 13, characterized in that, each tensioned longitudinal bar (21) having, in transversal section, the area necessary for the desired tensile strength, the profile of said bar (21), in each slippage area (26), is adapted so as to give it the necessary perimeter for the contact surface between the bar and the concrete to provide a link by bonding and friction that makes it possible to reach the desired limit value of the tangential adhesion stress in said slippage area (26). 15. The method as claimed in claim 14, characterized in that each tensioned longitudinal bar (21) has, in transversal section, a flattened profile with a width greater than the thickness, so as to increase its perimeter relative to that of an equivalent circular bar having the same transversal area. 16. The method as claimed in claim 15, characterized in that each tensioned longitudinal bar (21) has, in transversal section, a corrugated profile with longitudinal portions, recessed and protruding, extending parallel to the axis of the bar, over the entire length of each slippage area (26). 17. The method as claimed in claim 14, characterized in that, in each slippage area (26), the outer face of the bar includes a layer of particles detachably fixed to the outer surface of the bar and extending so as to protrude into the coating concrete so as to increase the adhesion link with the concrete and the limit value of the adhesion stress from which an increase in the tensile stresses results in the detachment of the bar, said particles being progressively detached one after the other from the bar, by remaining included in the concrete, as the tensile stresses increase, so as to maintain the adhesion stress at its limit value over a range of increase of said tensile stresses. 18. The method as claimed in claim 17, characterized in that the particles are fixed by gluing to the outer surface of the bar. 19. The method as claimed in claim 17, characterized in that the particles are dusted and applied under pressure to the outer surface of the bar at high temperature, at the output of the mill. 20. The method as claimed in claim 17, characterized in that the particles consist of chippings, metal balls or filings and are fixed to the outer surface of the bar by contact electro-welding. 21. The method as claimed in claim 17, characterized in that the particles fixed to the outer surface of each slippage area of the bar have varied dimensions so as to be progressively detached, depending on the size of the fixed portion, as and when the tensile stresses applied increase. 22. A reinforced concrete part produced by the method as claimed in claim 1 and comprising a reinforcing frame (2) embedded in molded concrete (15) and including at least one tensioned longitudinal bar (21) of the high-adhesion type, along which are formed a plurality of spaced anchoring means (23) forming abutments bearing on the coating concrete (16), characterized in that the anchoring means of the bar (21) are distributed in a discontinuous series of spaced blocking areas (25) each comprising a plurality of anchoring means (23) and separated from one another by slippage areas (26) without anchoring means, in each of which a local increase in the tensile differential between the bar (21) and the concrete (16) above a limit value results in a detachment of the
bar (21) relative to the concrete (16) that coats it, over at least a portion (27) of the length of said slippage area (26) between two blocking areas (25 a, 25′a), said detached portion (27) being able to elongate without disturbing the coating concrete (16) under the effect of the tensile stresses applied to the tensioned bar | 1,700 |
4,088 | 15,910,709 | 1,712 | Cold-in-place asphalt recycling is disclosed. A foamed asphalt may be produced by injecting water and optionally compressed air into a hot asphalt stream. A lubricating surfactant may be added to the hot asphalt stream to improve performance. The foamed asphalt may be mixed with reclaimed material to provide a uniformly coated paving material that can compacted to a desired density. | 1-31. (canceled) 32. A cold-in-place asphalt recycling method using a foamed asphalt binder, the method comprising the steps of:
combining water and a lubricating surfactant, and optionally compressed air, with an asphalt binder heated to a reduced temperature of about 300° F. to about 380° F. to provide a foamed asphalt binder; and combining milled bituminous material with the foamed asphalt binder to provide a cold-in-place recycled paving material. 33. The method of claim 32, wherein water comprises about 0.5 to about 5 weight percent and the lubricating surfactant comprises about 0.05 to about 3 weight percent of the asphalt binder. 34. The method of claim 32, comprising combining the milled bituminous material with the foamed asphalt binder in an amount of about 0.5 to 4 percent asphalt binder by weight of milled bituminous material. 35. The method of claim 32, comprising injecting water and compressed air into heated asphalt binder containing the lubricating surfactant. 36. The method of claim 32, comprising injecting water, compressed air, and lubricating surfactant into heated asphalt binder. 37. The method of claim 32, comprising adding lubricating surfactant to the heated asphalt binder and then injecting water into the heated asphalt binder. 38. The method of claim 32, wherein the lubricating surfactant comprises a cationic, anionic or nonionic surfactant. 39. The method of claim 32, wherein the lubricating surfactant comprises an alkyl amine, alkyl quaternary ammonium salt, heterocyclic quaternary ammonium salt, amido amine or non-nitrogenous sulfur or phosphorous derivative. 40. The method of claim 32, wherein the lubricating surfactant comprises an ethoxylated diamine, an ethoxylated tallow amine or tris(2-hydroxyethyl)-N-tallow-alkyl-1,3-diaminopropane. 41. The method of claim 32, wherein the foamed asphalt binder is formed from about 0.5 to about 5 weight percent water and about 0.05 to about 3 weight percent ethoxylated diamine or ethoxylated tallow amine. 42. The method of claim 32, wherein the lubricating surfactant reduces the temperature needed for paving by as much as 60° F. 43. The method of claim 32, wherein the asphalt is heated at a temperature of about 320° F. to about 360° F. 44. A cold-in-place asphalt recycling method for paving a recycled asphalt pavement surface, which method comprises:
producing a foamed asphalt binder by injecting water and a lubricating surfactant and optionally compressed air into a stream of an asphalt binder at a reduced temperature of about 300° F. to about 380° F.; milling an existing pavement surface to provide milled bituminous material; combining the foamed asphalt binder with the milled bituminous material to produce a recycled bituminous mix; conveying the recycled bituminous mix into a paver; laying the recycled bituminous mix onto an existing grade; and compacting the recycled bituminous mix to form a recycled asphalt pavement surface. 45. The method of claim 44, further comprising combining virgin aggregate and the milled bituminous material with the foamed asphalt binder. 46. The method of claim 44, wherein the lubricating surfactant reduces the temperature needed for paving by as much as 60° F. 47. The method of claim 44, further comprising placing a hot mix asphalt layer on the recycled asphalt pavement surface. 48. The method of claim 44, wherein the asphalt is heated to a temperature of about 320° F. to about 360° F. 49. The method of claim 44, wherein the lubricating surfactant comprises a cationic, anionic or nonionic surfactant. 50. The method of claim 44, wherein the lubricating surfactant comprises an alkyl amine, alkyl quaternary ammonium salt, heterocyclic quaternary ammonium salt, amido amine or non-nitrogenous sulfur or phosphorous derivative. 51. The method of claim 44, wherein the lubricating surfactant comprises an ethoxylated diamine, an ethoxylated tallow amine or tris(2-hydroxyethyl)-N-tallow-alkyl-1,3-diaminopropane. | Cold-in-place asphalt recycling is disclosed. A foamed asphalt may be produced by injecting water and optionally compressed air into a hot asphalt stream. A lubricating surfactant may be added to the hot asphalt stream to improve performance. The foamed asphalt may be mixed with reclaimed material to provide a uniformly coated paving material that can compacted to a desired density.1-31. (canceled) 32. A cold-in-place asphalt recycling method using a foamed asphalt binder, the method comprising the steps of:
combining water and a lubricating surfactant, and optionally compressed air, with an asphalt binder heated to a reduced temperature of about 300° F. to about 380° F. to provide a foamed asphalt binder; and combining milled bituminous material with the foamed asphalt binder to provide a cold-in-place recycled paving material. 33. The method of claim 32, wherein water comprises about 0.5 to about 5 weight percent and the lubricating surfactant comprises about 0.05 to about 3 weight percent of the asphalt binder. 34. The method of claim 32, comprising combining the milled bituminous material with the foamed asphalt binder in an amount of about 0.5 to 4 percent asphalt binder by weight of milled bituminous material. 35. The method of claim 32, comprising injecting water and compressed air into heated asphalt binder containing the lubricating surfactant. 36. The method of claim 32, comprising injecting water, compressed air, and lubricating surfactant into heated asphalt binder. 37. The method of claim 32, comprising adding lubricating surfactant to the heated asphalt binder and then injecting water into the heated asphalt binder. 38. The method of claim 32, wherein the lubricating surfactant comprises a cationic, anionic or nonionic surfactant. 39. The method of claim 32, wherein the lubricating surfactant comprises an alkyl amine, alkyl quaternary ammonium salt, heterocyclic quaternary ammonium salt, amido amine or non-nitrogenous sulfur or phosphorous derivative. 40. The method of claim 32, wherein the lubricating surfactant comprises an ethoxylated diamine, an ethoxylated tallow amine or tris(2-hydroxyethyl)-N-tallow-alkyl-1,3-diaminopropane. 41. The method of claim 32, wherein the foamed asphalt binder is formed from about 0.5 to about 5 weight percent water and about 0.05 to about 3 weight percent ethoxylated diamine or ethoxylated tallow amine. 42. The method of claim 32, wherein the lubricating surfactant reduces the temperature needed for paving by as much as 60° F. 43. The method of claim 32, wherein the asphalt is heated at a temperature of about 320° F. to about 360° F. 44. A cold-in-place asphalt recycling method for paving a recycled asphalt pavement surface, which method comprises:
producing a foamed asphalt binder by injecting water and a lubricating surfactant and optionally compressed air into a stream of an asphalt binder at a reduced temperature of about 300° F. to about 380° F.; milling an existing pavement surface to provide milled bituminous material; combining the foamed asphalt binder with the milled bituminous material to produce a recycled bituminous mix; conveying the recycled bituminous mix into a paver; laying the recycled bituminous mix onto an existing grade; and compacting the recycled bituminous mix to form a recycled asphalt pavement surface. 45. The method of claim 44, further comprising combining virgin aggregate and the milled bituminous material with the foamed asphalt binder. 46. The method of claim 44, wherein the lubricating surfactant reduces the temperature needed for paving by as much as 60° F. 47. The method of claim 44, further comprising placing a hot mix asphalt layer on the recycled asphalt pavement surface. 48. The method of claim 44, wherein the asphalt is heated to a temperature of about 320° F. to about 360° F. 49. The method of claim 44, wherein the lubricating surfactant comprises a cationic, anionic or nonionic surfactant. 50. The method of claim 44, wherein the lubricating surfactant comprises an alkyl amine, alkyl quaternary ammonium salt, heterocyclic quaternary ammonium salt, amido amine or non-nitrogenous sulfur or phosphorous derivative. 51. The method of claim 44, wherein the lubricating surfactant comprises an ethoxylated diamine, an ethoxylated tallow amine or tris(2-hydroxyethyl)-N-tallow-alkyl-1,3-diaminopropane. | 1,700 |
4,089 | 13,480,788 | 1,793 | A coffee filter basket includes a filter retainer having an outer shell with an upper end having open top and a bottom including an opening, an insert having an upper collar of a less than the diameter than the upper end of the retainer to fit therein and having a lower extension which when a filter is disposed within the retainer and the insert is disposed within the filter, the insert press-fits within the retainer to retain the filter adjacent the retainer shell, and a removable top having an outer perimeter lip portion of at least that of the diameter of the upper end of the retainer and a lower collar portion of a diameter less than the diameter of the upper collar and configured to press-fit therein to secure the insert in the retainer, wherein the removable top has an opening. A method of use is provided. | 1. A single cup beverage ingredient containing filter basket, comprising:
a filter retainer having an upper end with open top and a bottom end including an opening therein; an insert having an upper collar of a less than the diameter of the upper end of the retainer cup to fit therein and having a lower extension which when a filter is disposed between the retainer and the insert, the insert is dimensionally proportioned to press-fit the filter within the retainer to retain the filter between the insert and retainer yet not so tight between the insert and retainer as to substantially restrict fluid flow through sides of the filter and cause undue pressure on a bottom of the filter; and a top having an outer perimeter lip portion of a diameter and configuration positionable to form a closure about the upper end of the retainer when disposed thereagainst. 2. The single cup beverage ingredient containing filter basket of claim 1, wherein said lower extension is disposed within a lower portion of the filter. 3. The single cup beverage ingredient containing filter basket of claim 1, wherein said top is removable and has a lower collar portion of a diameter less than the diameter of the upper collar of the insert and configured to press-fit and to removably secure to the same with said insert and wherein the top has an opening therethrough. 4. The single cup beverage ingredient containing filter basket of claim 1, wherein the insert includes a lip portion at least that of the diameter than the upper end of the retainer. 5. The single cup beverage ingredient containing filter basket of claim 1, wherein the lower extension includes a plurality of fingers. 6. The single cup beverage ingredient containing filter basket of claim 1, wherein the bottom of the filter retainer includes an annular collar about defining the bottom opening which aids to retain the filter. 7. The single cup beverage ingredient containing filter basket of claim 6, wherein the bottom opening is of a size to permit one's finger to be inserted therethrough. 8. The single cup beverage ingredient containing filter basket of claim 1, wherein the upper collar includes a peripheral lip of a diameter at least that of the upper end of the retainer to aid in removal of the insert. 9. The single cup beverage ingredient containing filter basket of claim 1, wherein the lower collar portion of the top and the collar of the insert are formed with a complementary detent mechanism to snap fit together and secure the two together for use and removal. 10. The single cup beverage ingredient containing filter basket of claim 1, wherein an edge of one of the peripheral lip of the insert and the lip portion of the top is one of recessed and extended to aid in separation of the two once connected. 11. The single cup beverage ingredient containing filter basket of claim 3, wherein one of the lip portion of the insert and the outer perimeter lip portion of the removable top has one of a tab and cutaway to aid in separation of the top and insert once connected. 12. A method of brewing a single cup of coffee comprises the steps of:
providing an electric coffee brewing machine; providing a single-use, reusable brew basket a filter retainer an upper end having open top and a bottom including an opening therein, an insert having an upper collar of a less than the diameter than the upper end of the retainer to fit therein and having a lower extension which when a filter is disposed within the retainer and the insert is disposed within the filter, the insert press-fits the filter within the retainer to retain the filter adjacent the retainer, and a removable top provided having an outer perimeter lip portion of at least that of the diameter of the upper end of the retainer and a lower collar portion of a diameter less than the diameter of the upper collar and configured to press-fit therein to secure the insert within the retainer, wherein the top has an opening therethrough; disposing a single-use coffee filter between the retainer and the insert in a manner to cause the same to be press-fit therebetween; putting coffee into the filter; connecting the top onto the retainer such that the lower collar portion press-fits to the insert; and inserting the disposable brew basket into the electric coffee brewing machine and brewing a single cup of coffee with the electric coffee brewing machine. 13. The method of claim 12, which further includes disassembling the basket, removing the filter with coffee therein and discarding the same while retaining the basket for reuse. 14. The method of claim 13, which further characterizes removing the filter by inserting one's finger through the bottom opening and pushing out the filter with coffee therein. 15. A filter for use in a reusable single cup beverage ingredient containing filter basket, which includes a paper based substrate having a substantially planar base portion, the base portion having an inside surface for receipt of beverage forming ingredient, and an annular sidewall portion which extends upwardly and radially outwardly from a periphery of the planar base portion, the annular sidewall portion having an inner surface for receipt of beverage forming ingredient and an outside surface for contacting the retainer and wherein the annular sidewall includes a plurality of ridges extending radially outwardly and valleys extending radially inwardly, the plurality of ridges and valleys cooperating when press-fit between an insert and a retainer of the basket enhance the flowability of liquid through the filter and wherein said filter is of a sufficient strength such that said sidewall when press-fit between a retaining cup and an insert is sufficient to aid in retention of said filter between the retainer and the insert and for holding a beverage forming ingredient therein when under subjected to high heat and pressure from a single cup brewer. 16. The filter of claim 15, wherein the reusable single cup beverage ingredient containing filter basket is characterized such that the retainer has an upper end with open top and a bottom end including an opening therein, the insert has an upper collar of a less than the diameter of the upper end of the retainer cup to fit therein and has a lower extension which when said filter is disposed between the retainer and the insert, the insert is dimensionally proportioned to press-fit the filter within the retainer to retain the filter between the insert and retainer yet not so tight between the insert and retainer as to substantially restrict fluid flow through sides of the filter and cause undue pressure on a bottom of the filter and a top having an outer perimeter lip portion of a diameter and configuration positionable to form a closure about the upper end of the retainer when disposed thereagainst. 17. The filter of claim 16, wherein the ridges and valleys are separated by a predetermined distance Z which is greater than zero and less than 0.5 cm and the insert has an external diameter less than an internal diameter of the retainer and wherein when the insert is within the retainer, the insert is diametrically separated from the retainer less than distance Z and greater than zero. 18. The filter of claim 15, wherein the ridges and valleys are separated by a predetermined distance Z which is greater than zero and less than 0.5 cm. 19. The filter of claim 17, wherein the insert has an external diameter less than an internal diameter of the retainer and wherein when the insert is within the retainer, the insert is diametrically separated from the retainer less than distance Z and greater than zero. | A coffee filter basket includes a filter retainer having an outer shell with an upper end having open top and a bottom including an opening, an insert having an upper collar of a less than the diameter than the upper end of the retainer to fit therein and having a lower extension which when a filter is disposed within the retainer and the insert is disposed within the filter, the insert press-fits within the retainer to retain the filter adjacent the retainer shell, and a removable top having an outer perimeter lip portion of at least that of the diameter of the upper end of the retainer and a lower collar portion of a diameter less than the diameter of the upper collar and configured to press-fit therein to secure the insert in the retainer, wherein the removable top has an opening. A method of use is provided.1. A single cup beverage ingredient containing filter basket, comprising:
a filter retainer having an upper end with open top and a bottom end including an opening therein; an insert having an upper collar of a less than the diameter of the upper end of the retainer cup to fit therein and having a lower extension which when a filter is disposed between the retainer and the insert, the insert is dimensionally proportioned to press-fit the filter within the retainer to retain the filter between the insert and retainer yet not so tight between the insert and retainer as to substantially restrict fluid flow through sides of the filter and cause undue pressure on a bottom of the filter; and a top having an outer perimeter lip portion of a diameter and configuration positionable to form a closure about the upper end of the retainer when disposed thereagainst. 2. The single cup beverage ingredient containing filter basket of claim 1, wherein said lower extension is disposed within a lower portion of the filter. 3. The single cup beverage ingredient containing filter basket of claim 1, wherein said top is removable and has a lower collar portion of a diameter less than the diameter of the upper collar of the insert and configured to press-fit and to removably secure to the same with said insert and wherein the top has an opening therethrough. 4. The single cup beverage ingredient containing filter basket of claim 1, wherein the insert includes a lip portion at least that of the diameter than the upper end of the retainer. 5. The single cup beverage ingredient containing filter basket of claim 1, wherein the lower extension includes a plurality of fingers. 6. The single cup beverage ingredient containing filter basket of claim 1, wherein the bottom of the filter retainer includes an annular collar about defining the bottom opening which aids to retain the filter. 7. The single cup beverage ingredient containing filter basket of claim 6, wherein the bottom opening is of a size to permit one's finger to be inserted therethrough. 8. The single cup beverage ingredient containing filter basket of claim 1, wherein the upper collar includes a peripheral lip of a diameter at least that of the upper end of the retainer to aid in removal of the insert. 9. The single cup beverage ingredient containing filter basket of claim 1, wherein the lower collar portion of the top and the collar of the insert are formed with a complementary detent mechanism to snap fit together and secure the two together for use and removal. 10. The single cup beverage ingredient containing filter basket of claim 1, wherein an edge of one of the peripheral lip of the insert and the lip portion of the top is one of recessed and extended to aid in separation of the two once connected. 11. The single cup beverage ingredient containing filter basket of claim 3, wherein one of the lip portion of the insert and the outer perimeter lip portion of the removable top has one of a tab and cutaway to aid in separation of the top and insert once connected. 12. A method of brewing a single cup of coffee comprises the steps of:
providing an electric coffee brewing machine; providing a single-use, reusable brew basket a filter retainer an upper end having open top and a bottom including an opening therein, an insert having an upper collar of a less than the diameter than the upper end of the retainer to fit therein and having a lower extension which when a filter is disposed within the retainer and the insert is disposed within the filter, the insert press-fits the filter within the retainer to retain the filter adjacent the retainer, and a removable top provided having an outer perimeter lip portion of at least that of the diameter of the upper end of the retainer and a lower collar portion of a diameter less than the diameter of the upper collar and configured to press-fit therein to secure the insert within the retainer, wherein the top has an opening therethrough; disposing a single-use coffee filter between the retainer and the insert in a manner to cause the same to be press-fit therebetween; putting coffee into the filter; connecting the top onto the retainer such that the lower collar portion press-fits to the insert; and inserting the disposable brew basket into the electric coffee brewing machine and brewing a single cup of coffee with the electric coffee brewing machine. 13. The method of claim 12, which further includes disassembling the basket, removing the filter with coffee therein and discarding the same while retaining the basket for reuse. 14. The method of claim 13, which further characterizes removing the filter by inserting one's finger through the bottom opening and pushing out the filter with coffee therein. 15. A filter for use in a reusable single cup beverage ingredient containing filter basket, which includes a paper based substrate having a substantially planar base portion, the base portion having an inside surface for receipt of beverage forming ingredient, and an annular sidewall portion which extends upwardly and radially outwardly from a periphery of the planar base portion, the annular sidewall portion having an inner surface for receipt of beverage forming ingredient and an outside surface for contacting the retainer and wherein the annular sidewall includes a plurality of ridges extending radially outwardly and valleys extending radially inwardly, the plurality of ridges and valleys cooperating when press-fit between an insert and a retainer of the basket enhance the flowability of liquid through the filter and wherein said filter is of a sufficient strength such that said sidewall when press-fit between a retaining cup and an insert is sufficient to aid in retention of said filter between the retainer and the insert and for holding a beverage forming ingredient therein when under subjected to high heat and pressure from a single cup brewer. 16. The filter of claim 15, wherein the reusable single cup beverage ingredient containing filter basket is characterized such that the retainer has an upper end with open top and a bottom end including an opening therein, the insert has an upper collar of a less than the diameter of the upper end of the retainer cup to fit therein and has a lower extension which when said filter is disposed between the retainer and the insert, the insert is dimensionally proportioned to press-fit the filter within the retainer to retain the filter between the insert and retainer yet not so tight between the insert and retainer as to substantially restrict fluid flow through sides of the filter and cause undue pressure on a bottom of the filter and a top having an outer perimeter lip portion of a diameter and configuration positionable to form a closure about the upper end of the retainer when disposed thereagainst. 17. The filter of claim 16, wherein the ridges and valleys are separated by a predetermined distance Z which is greater than zero and less than 0.5 cm and the insert has an external diameter less than an internal diameter of the retainer and wherein when the insert is within the retainer, the insert is diametrically separated from the retainer less than distance Z and greater than zero. 18. The filter of claim 15, wherein the ridges and valleys are separated by a predetermined distance Z which is greater than zero and less than 0.5 cm. 19. The filter of claim 17, wherein the insert has an external diameter less than an internal diameter of the retainer and wherein when the insert is within the retainer, the insert is diametrically separated from the retainer less than distance Z and greater than zero. | 1,700 |
4,090 | 15,419,474 | 1,791 | Gluten-free tortillas are made from a composition including a gluten-free flour mixture constituting from 50-60% of weight of the composition, with the gluten-free flour mixture consisting of a combination of rice or tapioca flour, oat flour and quinoa flour. In particular embodiments, the flour mixture includes substantially equal amounts of the rice or tapioca flour, oat flour and quinoa flour by weight of the composition. In addition, the composition includes an enzyme for structural integrity purposes. In embodiments utilizing rice flour in the tri-flour blend, the composition can also comprises about 8% by weight of tapioca starch. Further, the gluten-free tortilla may be soft flat tortilla or a soft shaped tortilla having a formed shape selected from a cup, bowl, U- or square bottomed shaped taco shell, boat, tube, envelope or cone. | 1. A gluten-free tortilla composition comprising:
gluten-free flour mixture from 50-60% of weight of the composition, said gluten-free flour mixture being a combination of only three flours consisting of: rice or tapioca flour, oat flour and quinoa flour; and water in an amount of at least 30% by weight of the composition. 2. The composition of claim 1, further comprising from 1% to 2% of at least one hydrocolloid by weight of the composition. 3. The composition of claim 2, wherein the hydrocolloid includes xanthan gum. 4. The composition of claim 1, further comprising from 1% to 2% of at least one salt by weight of the composition. 5. The composition of claim 1, wherein the quinoa flour is present in an amount from 17% to 20% by weight of the composition. 6. The composition of claim 5, wherein the oat flour is present in an amount from 17% to 20% by weight of the composition. 7. The composition of claim 6, wherein rice flour is employed, with the rice flour being present in an amount from 17% to 20% by weight of the composition. 8. The composition of claim 7, wherein the composition further comprises about 8% by weight of tapioca starch. 9. The composition of claim 1, wherein the composition is free of gluten protein, a fat and a leavener. 10. The gluten-free tortilla of claim 1, wherein the gluten-free tortilla is a soft shaped tortilla having a formed shape selected from a cup, bowl, U- or square bottomed shaped taco shell, boat, tube, envelope or cone. 11. The gluten-free tortilla of claim 10, wherein the soft shaped tortilla is sufficiently cooked to maintain the formed shape at room temperature. 12. A method of preparing gluten free tortillas, comprising the steps of:
A. providing and mixing, at a low speed, a dry composition including gluten-free flour mixture from 50-60% by weight of the composition, said gluten-free flour mixture being a combination of only three flours consisting of: rice or tapioca flour, oat flour and quinoa flour, along with an enzyme to induce annealing; B. adding liquid ingredients to the dry composition to form a dough mixture and mixing at a low speed, said liquid ingredients including water in an amount of at least 30% by weight and the gluten-free flour mixture being from 50-60% by weight of the dough; C. mixing the dough mixture at a high speed; D. forming the dough into quantities of individual tortilla pieces having a thickness of about 1-5 mm; and E. baking the tortilla pieces to form finished gluten free-tortillas. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the dry composition further includes from 1% to 2% of at least one hydrocolloid by weight of the composition. 14. (canceled) 15. The method of claim 12, wherein the quinoa flour is present in an amount from 17% to 20% by weight of the composition. 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the oat flour is present in an amount from 17% to 20% by weight of the composition. 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the composition includes rice flour, with the rice flour being present in an amount from 17% to 20% by weight of the composition. 18. The method of claim 17, further comprising: adding about 8% by weight of tapioca starch. 19. The method of claim 12, wherein the forming step includes shaping the tortilla pieces into a shape selected from a cup, bowl, U- or square bottomed shaped taco shell, boat, tube, envelope or cone. 20. The method of claim 12, wherein the soft shaped tortilla is sufficiently cooked to maintain the formed shape at room temperature. 21. A gluten-free tortilla composition comprising:
gluten-free flour mixture from 50-60% of weight of the composition, said gluten-free flour mixture being a combination of three flours selected from the group consisting of: rice or tapioca flour, oat flour, and quinoa flour; and water in an amount of at least 30% by weight of the composition. | Gluten-free tortillas are made from a composition including a gluten-free flour mixture constituting from 50-60% of weight of the composition, with the gluten-free flour mixture consisting of a combination of rice or tapioca flour, oat flour and quinoa flour. In particular embodiments, the flour mixture includes substantially equal amounts of the rice or tapioca flour, oat flour and quinoa flour by weight of the composition. In addition, the composition includes an enzyme for structural integrity purposes. In embodiments utilizing rice flour in the tri-flour blend, the composition can also comprises about 8% by weight of tapioca starch. Further, the gluten-free tortilla may be soft flat tortilla or a soft shaped tortilla having a formed shape selected from a cup, bowl, U- or square bottomed shaped taco shell, boat, tube, envelope or cone.1. A gluten-free tortilla composition comprising:
gluten-free flour mixture from 50-60% of weight of the composition, said gluten-free flour mixture being a combination of only three flours consisting of: rice or tapioca flour, oat flour and quinoa flour; and water in an amount of at least 30% by weight of the composition. 2. The composition of claim 1, further comprising from 1% to 2% of at least one hydrocolloid by weight of the composition. 3. The composition of claim 2, wherein the hydrocolloid includes xanthan gum. 4. The composition of claim 1, further comprising from 1% to 2% of at least one salt by weight of the composition. 5. The composition of claim 1, wherein the quinoa flour is present in an amount from 17% to 20% by weight of the composition. 6. The composition of claim 5, wherein the oat flour is present in an amount from 17% to 20% by weight of the composition. 7. The composition of claim 6, wherein rice flour is employed, with the rice flour being present in an amount from 17% to 20% by weight of the composition. 8. The composition of claim 7, wherein the composition further comprises about 8% by weight of tapioca starch. 9. The composition of claim 1, wherein the composition is free of gluten protein, a fat and a leavener. 10. The gluten-free tortilla of claim 1, wherein the gluten-free tortilla is a soft shaped tortilla having a formed shape selected from a cup, bowl, U- or square bottomed shaped taco shell, boat, tube, envelope or cone. 11. The gluten-free tortilla of claim 10, wherein the soft shaped tortilla is sufficiently cooked to maintain the formed shape at room temperature. 12. A method of preparing gluten free tortillas, comprising the steps of:
A. providing and mixing, at a low speed, a dry composition including gluten-free flour mixture from 50-60% by weight of the composition, said gluten-free flour mixture being a combination of only three flours consisting of: rice or tapioca flour, oat flour and quinoa flour, along with an enzyme to induce annealing; B. adding liquid ingredients to the dry composition to form a dough mixture and mixing at a low speed, said liquid ingredients including water in an amount of at least 30% by weight and the gluten-free flour mixture being from 50-60% by weight of the dough; C. mixing the dough mixture at a high speed; D. forming the dough into quantities of individual tortilla pieces having a thickness of about 1-5 mm; and E. baking the tortilla pieces to form finished gluten free-tortillas. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the dry composition further includes from 1% to 2% of at least one hydrocolloid by weight of the composition. 14. (canceled) 15. The method of claim 12, wherein the quinoa flour is present in an amount from 17% to 20% by weight of the composition. 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the oat flour is present in an amount from 17% to 20% by weight of the composition. 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the composition includes rice flour, with the rice flour being present in an amount from 17% to 20% by weight of the composition. 18. The method of claim 17, further comprising: adding about 8% by weight of tapioca starch. 19. The method of claim 12, wherein the forming step includes shaping the tortilla pieces into a shape selected from a cup, bowl, U- or square bottomed shaped taco shell, boat, tube, envelope or cone. 20. The method of claim 12, wherein the soft shaped tortilla is sufficiently cooked to maintain the formed shape at room temperature. 21. A gluten-free tortilla composition comprising:
gluten-free flour mixture from 50-60% of weight of the composition, said gluten-free flour mixture being a combination of three flours selected from the group consisting of: rice or tapioca flour, oat flour, and quinoa flour; and water in an amount of at least 30% by weight of the composition. | 1,700 |
4,091 | 12,562,291 | 1,735 | A method of mitigating distortion in a friction stir weld joint as well as an associated friction stir weld assembly for mitigating distortion in a friction stir weld joint are provided. In this regard, a workpiece having a friction stir weld joint and associated distortion may be provided. Force may then be selectively applied to the workpiece along at least a portion of friction stir weld joint. The application of force induces plastic deformation along at least the portion of the friction stir weld joint in order to reduce the distortion of the workpiece. Force may be applied, for example, by moving a roller, such as a hardened cylindrical roller having chamfered edges, along at least a portion of the friction stir weld joint in order to apply a compressive force. | 1. A method of mitigating distortion in a friction stir weld joint, the method comprising:
providing a workpiece having the friction stir weld joint and associated distortion; and applying force to the workpiece along at least a portion of the friction stir weld joint, wherein applying force comprises inducing plastic deformation along at least the portion of the friction stir weld joint in order to reduce the distortion of the workpiece. 2. A method according to claim 1 wherein applying force comprises applying a compressive force by moving a roller along at least the portion of the friction stir weld joint. 3. A method according to claim 2 wherein applying force further comprises supporting at least the portion of the friction stir weld joint with a backing member. 4. A method according to claim 2 wherein applying force comprises directing the roller along a predefined weld path in accordance with a common weld path definition to that previously employed in conjunction with a friction stir weld tool. 5. A method according to claim 2 wherein applying force comprises applying force with a hardened cylindrical roller with chamfered edges. 6. A method according to claim 1 wherein inducing plastic deformation comprises elongating the workpiece along at least the portion of the friction stir weld joint. 7. A method according to claim 1 further comprising securing the workpiece upon a platform with a holding device while applying force thereto, wherein the platform and the holding device are also configured to secure the workpiece during prior formation of the friction stir weld joint. 8. A method of mitigating distortion in a friction stir weld joint, the method comprising:
forming a friction stir weld joint in a workpiece, wherein forming the friction stir weld joint comprises securing the workpiece upon a platform with a holding fixture, and forming the friction stir weld joint with a friction stir weld assembly that is configured to direct a friction stir weld tool along a predefined weld path while applying a predefined force; and applying force to the workpiece following formation of and along at least a portion of the friction stir weld joint in order to reduce the distortion of the workpiece, wherein applying force comprises securing the workpiece upon the platform with the holding device, and engaging a roller with the friction stir weld tool that is also configured to apply a compressive force by moving the roller along the predefined weld path while applying a predetermined force. 9. A method according to claim 8 further comprising directing the friction stir weld tool and the roller along the predefined weld path in accordance with a common weld path definition. 10. A method according to claim 8 wherein applying force further comprises applying force with a hardened cylindrical roller with chamfered edges. 11. A method according to claim 8 wherein applying force further comprises inducing plastic deformation along at least a portion of the friction stir weld joint. 12. A method according to claim 11 wherein inducing plastic deformation comprises elongating the workpiece along at least a portion of the friction stir weld joint. 13. A method according to claim 8 further comprising supporting the workpiece during movement of both the friction stir weld tool and the roller along the predefined weld path. 14. A friction stir weld assembly comprising:
a platform and a holding fixture configured to secure a workpiece to the platform during friction stir welding operations; a friction stir weld tool; a controller configured to direct the friction stir weld tool along a predefined weld path while applying a predefined force to form a friction stir weld joint; and a roller, wherein the controller is also configured to direct the roller along the predefined weld path while the workpiece is secured to the platform by the holding fixture and while applying a predefined force in order to reduce the distortion of the workpiece. 15. A friction stir weld assembly according to claim 14 wherein the controller is configured to direct movement of both the friction stir weld tool and the roller in accordance with a common weld path definition. 16. A friction stir weld assembly according to claim 14 wherein the roller comprises a hardened, cylindrical roller having chamfered edges. 17. A friction stir weld assembly according to claim 14 wherein the controller is configured to apply the predefined force in order to induce plastic deformation along at least a portion of the friction stir weld joint. 18. A friction stir weld assembly according to claim 17 wherein the controller is configured to induce plastic deformation in order to elongate the workpiece along at least a portion of the friction stir weld joint. 19. A friction stir weld assembly according to claim 14 wherein the platform comprises a backing member to support the workpiece during movement of both the friction stir weld tool and the roller along the predefined weld path. | A method of mitigating distortion in a friction stir weld joint as well as an associated friction stir weld assembly for mitigating distortion in a friction stir weld joint are provided. In this regard, a workpiece having a friction stir weld joint and associated distortion may be provided. Force may then be selectively applied to the workpiece along at least a portion of friction stir weld joint. The application of force induces plastic deformation along at least the portion of the friction stir weld joint in order to reduce the distortion of the workpiece. Force may be applied, for example, by moving a roller, such as a hardened cylindrical roller having chamfered edges, along at least a portion of the friction stir weld joint in order to apply a compressive force.1. A method of mitigating distortion in a friction stir weld joint, the method comprising:
providing a workpiece having the friction stir weld joint and associated distortion; and applying force to the workpiece along at least a portion of the friction stir weld joint, wherein applying force comprises inducing plastic deformation along at least the portion of the friction stir weld joint in order to reduce the distortion of the workpiece. 2. A method according to claim 1 wherein applying force comprises applying a compressive force by moving a roller along at least the portion of the friction stir weld joint. 3. A method according to claim 2 wherein applying force further comprises supporting at least the portion of the friction stir weld joint with a backing member. 4. A method according to claim 2 wherein applying force comprises directing the roller along a predefined weld path in accordance with a common weld path definition to that previously employed in conjunction with a friction stir weld tool. 5. A method according to claim 2 wherein applying force comprises applying force with a hardened cylindrical roller with chamfered edges. 6. A method according to claim 1 wherein inducing plastic deformation comprises elongating the workpiece along at least the portion of the friction stir weld joint. 7. A method according to claim 1 further comprising securing the workpiece upon a platform with a holding device while applying force thereto, wherein the platform and the holding device are also configured to secure the workpiece during prior formation of the friction stir weld joint. 8. A method of mitigating distortion in a friction stir weld joint, the method comprising:
forming a friction stir weld joint in a workpiece, wherein forming the friction stir weld joint comprises securing the workpiece upon a platform with a holding fixture, and forming the friction stir weld joint with a friction stir weld assembly that is configured to direct a friction stir weld tool along a predefined weld path while applying a predefined force; and applying force to the workpiece following formation of and along at least a portion of the friction stir weld joint in order to reduce the distortion of the workpiece, wherein applying force comprises securing the workpiece upon the platform with the holding device, and engaging a roller with the friction stir weld tool that is also configured to apply a compressive force by moving the roller along the predefined weld path while applying a predetermined force. 9. A method according to claim 8 further comprising directing the friction stir weld tool and the roller along the predefined weld path in accordance with a common weld path definition. 10. A method according to claim 8 wherein applying force further comprises applying force with a hardened cylindrical roller with chamfered edges. 11. A method according to claim 8 wherein applying force further comprises inducing plastic deformation along at least a portion of the friction stir weld joint. 12. A method according to claim 11 wherein inducing plastic deformation comprises elongating the workpiece along at least a portion of the friction stir weld joint. 13. A method according to claim 8 further comprising supporting the workpiece during movement of both the friction stir weld tool and the roller along the predefined weld path. 14. A friction stir weld assembly comprising:
a platform and a holding fixture configured to secure a workpiece to the platform during friction stir welding operations; a friction stir weld tool; a controller configured to direct the friction stir weld tool along a predefined weld path while applying a predefined force to form a friction stir weld joint; and a roller, wherein the controller is also configured to direct the roller along the predefined weld path while the workpiece is secured to the platform by the holding fixture and while applying a predefined force in order to reduce the distortion of the workpiece. 15. A friction stir weld assembly according to claim 14 wherein the controller is configured to direct movement of both the friction stir weld tool and the roller in accordance with a common weld path definition. 16. A friction stir weld assembly according to claim 14 wherein the roller comprises a hardened, cylindrical roller having chamfered edges. 17. A friction stir weld assembly according to claim 14 wherein the controller is configured to apply the predefined force in order to induce plastic deformation along at least a portion of the friction stir weld joint. 18. A friction stir weld assembly according to claim 17 wherein the controller is configured to induce plastic deformation in order to elongate the workpiece along at least a portion of the friction stir weld joint. 19. A friction stir weld assembly according to claim 14 wherein the platform comprises a backing member to support the workpiece during movement of both the friction stir weld tool and the roller along the predefined weld path. | 1,700 |
4,092 | 14,278,303 | 1,782 | A metallocene-catalyzed polyethylene copolymer having a zero shear viscosity (η o ) of from about 1×10 2 Pa-s to about 5×10 3 Pa-s and a ratio of a z-average molecular weight to a number average molecular weight (M z /M n ) of from about 4 to about 15, and when tested in accordance with ASTM F1249 displays a moisture vapor transmission rate of less than or equal to about 0.9 g-mil/100 in 2 /day. A metallocene-catalyzed polyethylene copolymer which when tested in accordance with ASTM F1249 has a moisture vapor transmission rate (MVTR) that is decreased by at least 5% when compared to an MVTR determined in accordance with ASTM F1249 of an otherwise similar metallocene-catalyzed polyethylene homopolymer. | 1. A metallocene-catalyzed polyethylene copolymer having a zero shear viscosity (ηo) of from about 1×102 Pa-s to about 5×103 Pa-s and a ratio of a z-average molecular weight to a number average molecular weight (Mz/Mn) of from about 4 to about 15, and when tested in accordance with ASTM F1249 displays a moisture vapor transmission rate of less than or equal to about 0.9 g-mil/100 in2/day. 2. The copolymer of claim 1 comprising an alpha olefin comonomer. 3. The copolymer of claim 2 having a short chain branching content of greater than about 0.6 short chain branches per 1,000 carbon atoms. 4. The copolymer of claim 2 having a C3 to C18 branching content of greater than about 0.1 C3 to C18 branches per 1,000 carbon atoms. 5. The copolymer of claim 2 wherein the alpha olefin comonomer comprises 1-hexene, 1-octene, or combinations thereof. 6. The copolymer of claim 2 wherein the alpha olefin comonomer comprises 1-hexene. 7. The copolymer of claim 1 having a butyl branching content of greater than about 0.1 butyl branches per 1,000 carbon atoms. 8. The copolymer of claim 1 having a density of less than about 0.965 g/cc. 9. The copolymer of claim 1 having a molecular weight distribution (Mw/Mn) of from about 2 to about 6. 10. The copolymer of claim 1 having a ratio of the z-average molecular weight to a weight average molecular weight (Mz/Mw) of from about 1.7 to about 2.7. 11. The copolymer of claim 1 having a weight average molecular weight (Mw) of from about 10 kg/mol to about 135 kg/mol. 12. The copolymer of claim 1 having a z-average molecular weight (Mz) of from about 25 kg/mol to about 260 kg/mol. 13. The copolymer of claim 1 having a viscous relaxation time (τη) of less than about 1.3×10−2 seconds. 14. The copolymer of claim 1 having a number average molecular weight (Mn) of from about 2 kg/mol to about 60 kg/mol. 15. The copolymer of claim 1 having a zero shear viscosity of from about 5×102 Pa-s about 4.5×103 Pa-s. 16. The copolymer of claim 1 having a density of less than about 0.962 g/cc. 17. The copolymer of claim 1 having a melt index (I2.16) of greater than about 0.8 g/10 min as determined in accordance with ASTM D1238. 18. The copolymer of claim 1 having a CY-a parameter of greater than about 0.4. 19. A film made from the copolymer of claim 1. 20. A food packaging container comprising the film of claim 19. 21. The copolymer of claim 1 wherein the metallocene catalyst comprises a bridged metallocene compound. 22. The copolymer of claim 1 wherein the metallocene catalyst comprises an unbridged metallocene compound. 23. The copolymer of claim 1 wherein the metallocene catalyst comprises a single metallocene compound and an activator-support further comprising a chemically-treated solid oxide support. 24. A metallocene-catalyzed polyethylene copolymer which when tested in accordance with ASTM F1249 has a moisture vapor transmission rate (MVTR) that is decreased by at least 5% when compared to an MVTR determined in accordance with ASTM F1249 of an otherwise similar metallocene-catalyzed polyethylene homopolymer. | A metallocene-catalyzed polyethylene copolymer having a zero shear viscosity (η o ) of from about 1×10 2 Pa-s to about 5×10 3 Pa-s and a ratio of a z-average molecular weight to a number average molecular weight (M z /M n ) of from about 4 to about 15, and when tested in accordance with ASTM F1249 displays a moisture vapor transmission rate of less than or equal to about 0.9 g-mil/100 in 2 /day. A metallocene-catalyzed polyethylene copolymer which when tested in accordance with ASTM F1249 has a moisture vapor transmission rate (MVTR) that is decreased by at least 5% when compared to an MVTR determined in accordance with ASTM F1249 of an otherwise similar metallocene-catalyzed polyethylene homopolymer.1. A metallocene-catalyzed polyethylene copolymer having a zero shear viscosity (ηo) of from about 1×102 Pa-s to about 5×103 Pa-s and a ratio of a z-average molecular weight to a number average molecular weight (Mz/Mn) of from about 4 to about 15, and when tested in accordance with ASTM F1249 displays a moisture vapor transmission rate of less than or equal to about 0.9 g-mil/100 in2/day. 2. The copolymer of claim 1 comprising an alpha olefin comonomer. 3. The copolymer of claim 2 having a short chain branching content of greater than about 0.6 short chain branches per 1,000 carbon atoms. 4. The copolymer of claim 2 having a C3 to C18 branching content of greater than about 0.1 C3 to C18 branches per 1,000 carbon atoms. 5. The copolymer of claim 2 wherein the alpha olefin comonomer comprises 1-hexene, 1-octene, or combinations thereof. 6. The copolymer of claim 2 wherein the alpha olefin comonomer comprises 1-hexene. 7. The copolymer of claim 1 having a butyl branching content of greater than about 0.1 butyl branches per 1,000 carbon atoms. 8. The copolymer of claim 1 having a density of less than about 0.965 g/cc. 9. The copolymer of claim 1 having a molecular weight distribution (Mw/Mn) of from about 2 to about 6. 10. The copolymer of claim 1 having a ratio of the z-average molecular weight to a weight average molecular weight (Mz/Mw) of from about 1.7 to about 2.7. 11. The copolymer of claim 1 having a weight average molecular weight (Mw) of from about 10 kg/mol to about 135 kg/mol. 12. The copolymer of claim 1 having a z-average molecular weight (Mz) of from about 25 kg/mol to about 260 kg/mol. 13. The copolymer of claim 1 having a viscous relaxation time (τη) of less than about 1.3×10−2 seconds. 14. The copolymer of claim 1 having a number average molecular weight (Mn) of from about 2 kg/mol to about 60 kg/mol. 15. The copolymer of claim 1 having a zero shear viscosity of from about 5×102 Pa-s about 4.5×103 Pa-s. 16. The copolymer of claim 1 having a density of less than about 0.962 g/cc. 17. The copolymer of claim 1 having a melt index (I2.16) of greater than about 0.8 g/10 min as determined in accordance with ASTM D1238. 18. The copolymer of claim 1 having a CY-a parameter of greater than about 0.4. 19. A film made from the copolymer of claim 1. 20. A food packaging container comprising the film of claim 19. 21. The copolymer of claim 1 wherein the metallocene catalyst comprises a bridged metallocene compound. 22. The copolymer of claim 1 wherein the metallocene catalyst comprises an unbridged metallocene compound. 23. The copolymer of claim 1 wherein the metallocene catalyst comprises a single metallocene compound and an activator-support further comprising a chemically-treated solid oxide support. 24. A metallocene-catalyzed polyethylene copolymer which when tested in accordance with ASTM F1249 has a moisture vapor transmission rate (MVTR) that is decreased by at least 5% when compared to an MVTR determined in accordance with ASTM F1249 of an otherwise similar metallocene-catalyzed polyethylene homopolymer. | 1,700 |
4,093 | 14,372,374 | 1,792 | Provided is an apparatus for cooking a food cooked by contact, characterized in that the apparatus is made to transmit information to a user after a period of time during which the food is heated by the resistor(s) has elapsed, said period of time depending on at least one value of the internal cooking temperature of the food, which is pre-stored in a memory of the apparatus at the factory prior to the first operational use thereof. | 1. A method for implementing an apparatus for cooking a food item, comprising at least one heating plate for cooking the food by contact, characterized in that, at the end of heating of the food by one or more resistor(s), the apparatus is made to indicate, to a user, information which depends on at least one internal cooking temperature value (X) of the food stored in the apparatus. 2. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein:
different said internal cooking temperatures of the food are stored in memory of the apparatus, and, to be able to deliver the food to the user with an internal cooking as desired, the following steps are carried out:
said placing in contact of this food with the heating plate or plates,
a calculation by the apparatus of the cooking time of the food as a function of at least one of the stored temperatures (X),
and said indication to the user of the information indicating to him or her that the cooking has been achieved. 3. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the or each internal cooking temperature value (X) of the food stored in memory of the apparatus is prestored in the factory, before the first operational use of the apparatus. 4. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the apparatus indicates said information to the user notably at the end of the calculated cooking time (T). 5. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein, with the apparatus operating and when the food is in contact with the heating plate or plates, it measures the temperature of at least one of the heating plates and calculates the cooking time of the food also as a function of this measured temperature. 6. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein, with the apparatus operating and before the food is in contact with the heating plate or plates, it measures the temperature of at least one of the heating plates and, when a predetermined preheating temperature is reached, addresses to the user the information indicating same to him or her. 7. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein, with the apparatus operating and when the food is in contact with the heating plate or plates, it performs:
a measurement of the thickness (Y) of the duly positioned food and/or an estimation of the surface area (Z) occupied by this food on the heating plate, upon which said trend of the internal cooking temperature (X) of the food depends, then said calculation of the cooking time (T) for the food as a function of the thickness (Y) of the food, and/or of the surface area (Z) that it occupies. 8. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein:
the cooking time (T) for the food is calculated by calculating a first cooking time (T), as a function of the lowest temperature (X) out of those stored in memory, at the end of said first calculated cooking time (T), indication to the user, by the apparatus, that the corresponding cooking has been achieved, then: if the user does not remove the food, the application by the apparatus of a second calculated cooking time (T) for the food, as a function of the second in ascending order of said temperatures stored in memory (X), at the end of this second calculated cooking time (T), once again an indication to the user, by the apparatus, that the corresponding cooking has been achieved, and so on. 9. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein, during said operation of the apparatus, the food is positioned between a plurality of said heating plates, in contact with them. 10. The cooking method as claimed in claim 6, wherein:
it comprises at least one of the following steps:
selection of the category of the food to be cooked,
selection of the frozen state of the food,
selection of a desired grill marking of the food,
and the preheating temperature depends on the or said selections made and is selected by the apparatus out of several temperatures previously stored in memory. 11. The cooking method as claimed in claim 5, wherein, at the end of the step (A) of preheating of the apparatus, the start of the step (B) of cooking of the food is detected by a lowering beyond a predetermined threshold of the measured temperature of the or of one of the heating plates. 12. A cooking apparatus for implementing the method as claimed in claim 1, the apparatus comprising at least one heating plate for cooking a food by contact, characterized in that it comprises, to be able to deliver to a user the food with an internal cooking as desired:
a memory for storing different internal cooking temperatures (X) of the food, means for measuring the thickness (Y) of the food then positioned in contact with the heating plate or plates and/or means for estimating the surface area (Z) occupied by this food on the or one of the heating plates, means for calculating at least one cooking time (T) for the duly positioned food, as a function:
of at least one of the internal cooking temperatures (X) out of those stored in memory, and
of the thickness (Y) of the food, and/or of the surface area (Z) occupied by the food; and
means for indication to the user, by the apparatus, of information at the end of said calculated cooking time, which is a function of at least one of the stored cooking temperature values (X). 13. The apparatus as claimed in claim 12, herein the indication means comprise:
a luminous display, a chromatic reference frame showing a number of colors or color intensities, and means for varying the color or the color intensity of the display, from one color or color intensity from the reference frame to another. 14. The apparatus as claimed in claim 12, wherein it comprises at least one temperature sensor for the heating plate or plates linked to the indication means, to have them indicate to the user information that a predetermined preheating temperature stored in memory has been reached. 15. The apparatus as claimed in claim 13, wherein
the luminous display comprises multicolored light-emitting diodes, and the means comprise means for sequencing the colors or color intensities by variations of chromatic coordinates. | Provided is an apparatus for cooking a food cooked by contact, characterized in that the apparatus is made to transmit information to a user after a period of time during which the food is heated by the resistor(s) has elapsed, said period of time depending on at least one value of the internal cooking temperature of the food, which is pre-stored in a memory of the apparatus at the factory prior to the first operational use thereof.1. A method for implementing an apparatus for cooking a food item, comprising at least one heating plate for cooking the food by contact, characterized in that, at the end of heating of the food by one or more resistor(s), the apparatus is made to indicate, to a user, information which depends on at least one internal cooking temperature value (X) of the food stored in the apparatus. 2. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein:
different said internal cooking temperatures of the food are stored in memory of the apparatus, and, to be able to deliver the food to the user with an internal cooking as desired, the following steps are carried out:
said placing in contact of this food with the heating plate or plates,
a calculation by the apparatus of the cooking time of the food as a function of at least one of the stored temperatures (X),
and said indication to the user of the information indicating to him or her that the cooking has been achieved. 3. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the or each internal cooking temperature value (X) of the food stored in memory of the apparatus is prestored in the factory, before the first operational use of the apparatus. 4. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the apparatus indicates said information to the user notably at the end of the calculated cooking time (T). 5. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein, with the apparatus operating and when the food is in contact with the heating plate or plates, it measures the temperature of at least one of the heating plates and calculates the cooking time of the food also as a function of this measured temperature. 6. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein, with the apparatus operating and before the food is in contact with the heating plate or plates, it measures the temperature of at least one of the heating plates and, when a predetermined preheating temperature is reached, addresses to the user the information indicating same to him or her. 7. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein, with the apparatus operating and when the food is in contact with the heating plate or plates, it performs:
a measurement of the thickness (Y) of the duly positioned food and/or an estimation of the surface area (Z) occupied by this food on the heating plate, upon which said trend of the internal cooking temperature (X) of the food depends, then said calculation of the cooking time (T) for the food as a function of the thickness (Y) of the food, and/or of the surface area (Z) that it occupies. 8. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein:
the cooking time (T) for the food is calculated by calculating a first cooking time (T), as a function of the lowest temperature (X) out of those stored in memory, at the end of said first calculated cooking time (T), indication to the user, by the apparatus, that the corresponding cooking has been achieved, then: if the user does not remove the food, the application by the apparatus of a second calculated cooking time (T) for the food, as a function of the second in ascending order of said temperatures stored in memory (X), at the end of this second calculated cooking time (T), once again an indication to the user, by the apparatus, that the corresponding cooking has been achieved, and so on. 9. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein, during said operation of the apparatus, the food is positioned between a plurality of said heating plates, in contact with them. 10. The cooking method as claimed in claim 6, wherein:
it comprises at least one of the following steps:
selection of the category of the food to be cooked,
selection of the frozen state of the food,
selection of a desired grill marking of the food,
and the preheating temperature depends on the or said selections made and is selected by the apparatus out of several temperatures previously stored in memory. 11. The cooking method as claimed in claim 5, wherein, at the end of the step (A) of preheating of the apparatus, the start of the step (B) of cooking of the food is detected by a lowering beyond a predetermined threshold of the measured temperature of the or of one of the heating plates. 12. A cooking apparatus for implementing the method as claimed in claim 1, the apparatus comprising at least one heating plate for cooking a food by contact, characterized in that it comprises, to be able to deliver to a user the food with an internal cooking as desired:
a memory for storing different internal cooking temperatures (X) of the food, means for measuring the thickness (Y) of the food then positioned in contact with the heating plate or plates and/or means for estimating the surface area (Z) occupied by this food on the or one of the heating plates, means for calculating at least one cooking time (T) for the duly positioned food, as a function:
of at least one of the internal cooking temperatures (X) out of those stored in memory, and
of the thickness (Y) of the food, and/or of the surface area (Z) occupied by the food; and
means for indication to the user, by the apparatus, of information at the end of said calculated cooking time, which is a function of at least one of the stored cooking temperature values (X). 13. The apparatus as claimed in claim 12, herein the indication means comprise:
a luminous display, a chromatic reference frame showing a number of colors or color intensities, and means for varying the color or the color intensity of the display, from one color or color intensity from the reference frame to another. 14. The apparatus as claimed in claim 12, wherein it comprises at least one temperature sensor for the heating plate or plates linked to the indication means, to have them indicate to the user information that a predetermined preheating temperature stored in memory has been reached. 15. The apparatus as claimed in claim 13, wherein
the luminous display comprises multicolored light-emitting diodes, and the means comprise means for sequencing the colors or color intensities by variations of chromatic coordinates. | 1,700 |
4,094 | 14,640,507 | 1,766 | Provided is a prepreg that is formed by impregnating a fabric base material with a resin composition, then heating and drying. The resin composition includes (A) a polymer which has a specific structure, has no unsaturated bond between carbon atoms, has an epoxy number of from 0.2 to 0.8 eq/kg, and has a weight-average molecular weight of from 200,000 to 1,000,000; (B) a polyarylene-ether copolymer (PAE); and (C) an epoxy resin having two or more epoxy groups on a molecule. The component (B) is compatible with the component (A), and the component (C) is an epoxy resin that is incompatible with the component (A). | 1. A prepreg formed by impregnating a fabric base material with a resin composition, then heating and drying, wherein the resin composition including:
(A) a polymer which has a structure shown in structural formulas (I) and (II) below
(wherein the ratio of x to y (x:y) is from 0:1 to 0.35:0.65, R1 is H or CH3, and R2 is H or an alkyl group), has no unsaturated bond between carbon atoms, has an epoxy number of from 0.2 to 0.8 eq/kg, and has a weight-average molecular weight of from 200,000 to 1,000,000;
(B) a polyarylene-ether copolymer (PAE); and
(C) an epoxy resin having two or more epoxy groups on a molecule,
wherein the component (B) is compatible with the component (A), and
the component (C) is an epoxy resin that is incompatible with the component (A). 2. The prepreg according to claim 1, wherein the component (B) is a polyarylene-ether copolymer having a number-average molecular weight of from 500 to 2000. 3. The prepreg according to claim 1, wherein the component (B) is a polyarylene-ether copolymer having an average of from 1.5 to 3 phenolic hydroxyl groups per molecule on molecular ends thereof. 4. The prepreg according to claim 1, wherein the component (B) is made of 2,6-dimethylphenol and at least either of a bifunctional phenol or a trifunctional phenol. 5. The prepreg according to claim 1, wherein the component (C) is at least one epoxy resin selected from the group consisting of naphthalene ring-containing epoxy resins, dicyclopentadiene-type epoxy resins and cresol novolak-type epoxy resins. 6. The prepreg according to claim 1, wherein, when the total amount of the components (A), (B) and (C) is 100 parts by mass, the amount of the component (A) is from 10 to 40 parts by mass. 7. The prepreg according to claim 1, wherein the resin composition further includes (D) an inorganic filler. 8. The prepreg according to claim 7, wherein, when the total amount of the components (A), (B) and (C) is 100 parts by mass, the amount of the component (D) is from 0 to 300 parts by mass. 9. A metal-clad laminate obtained by laminating metal foil on the prepreg of claim 1, then molding under applied heat and pressure. 10. A printed circuit board obtained by partially removing metal foil on the surface of the metal-clad laminate of claim 9. | Provided is a prepreg that is formed by impregnating a fabric base material with a resin composition, then heating and drying. The resin composition includes (A) a polymer which has a specific structure, has no unsaturated bond between carbon atoms, has an epoxy number of from 0.2 to 0.8 eq/kg, and has a weight-average molecular weight of from 200,000 to 1,000,000; (B) a polyarylene-ether copolymer (PAE); and (C) an epoxy resin having two or more epoxy groups on a molecule. The component (B) is compatible with the component (A), and the component (C) is an epoxy resin that is incompatible with the component (A).1. A prepreg formed by impregnating a fabric base material with a resin composition, then heating and drying, wherein the resin composition including:
(A) a polymer which has a structure shown in structural formulas (I) and (II) below
(wherein the ratio of x to y (x:y) is from 0:1 to 0.35:0.65, R1 is H or CH3, and R2 is H or an alkyl group), has no unsaturated bond between carbon atoms, has an epoxy number of from 0.2 to 0.8 eq/kg, and has a weight-average molecular weight of from 200,000 to 1,000,000;
(B) a polyarylene-ether copolymer (PAE); and
(C) an epoxy resin having two or more epoxy groups on a molecule,
wherein the component (B) is compatible with the component (A), and
the component (C) is an epoxy resin that is incompatible with the component (A). 2. The prepreg according to claim 1, wherein the component (B) is a polyarylene-ether copolymer having a number-average molecular weight of from 500 to 2000. 3. The prepreg according to claim 1, wherein the component (B) is a polyarylene-ether copolymer having an average of from 1.5 to 3 phenolic hydroxyl groups per molecule on molecular ends thereof. 4. The prepreg according to claim 1, wherein the component (B) is made of 2,6-dimethylphenol and at least either of a bifunctional phenol or a trifunctional phenol. 5. The prepreg according to claim 1, wherein the component (C) is at least one epoxy resin selected from the group consisting of naphthalene ring-containing epoxy resins, dicyclopentadiene-type epoxy resins and cresol novolak-type epoxy resins. 6. The prepreg according to claim 1, wherein, when the total amount of the components (A), (B) and (C) is 100 parts by mass, the amount of the component (A) is from 10 to 40 parts by mass. 7. The prepreg according to claim 1, wherein the resin composition further includes (D) an inorganic filler. 8. The prepreg according to claim 7, wherein, when the total amount of the components (A), (B) and (C) is 100 parts by mass, the amount of the component (D) is from 0 to 300 parts by mass. 9. A metal-clad laminate obtained by laminating metal foil on the prepreg of claim 1, then molding under applied heat and pressure. 10. A printed circuit board obtained by partially removing metal foil on the surface of the metal-clad laminate of claim 9. | 1,700 |
4,095 | 15,683,751 | 1,793 | What is provided are sugar substitute compositions comprising natural ingredients that provide added human health benefits and properties and characteristics of sugar, without the caloric content and glycemic index of sugar. Unlike artificial sweeteners, the sugar substitute compositions contain no chemicals or synthetic additives and taste and function like sugar. Specifically, the sugar substitute compositions comprise digestion resistant soluble fiber comprising an oligosaccharide matrix of glucose and/or fructose oligomers, which yield the sugar substitute digestion resistant property and allow it to simultaneously enhance the growth of beneficial bacteria in the human gut. In one particular embodiment, the sugar substitute comprises a digestion resistant soluble fiber, Luo Han Guo extract, and a flavor masking agent comprising Oryza sativa (rice) extract. In another embodiment, the sugar substitute comprises a digestion resistant soluble fiber, Luo Han Guo extract, a flavor masking agent comprising Oryza sativa (rice) extract, and a steviol glycoside. | 1. A low calorie sugar substitute composition comprising:
a digestion resistant soluble fiber; a flavor masking agent; and a natural fruit extract. 2. The low calorie sugar substitute composition of claim 1, the digestion resistant soluble fiber selected from the group consisting of inulin, soluble corn (gluco) fiber, glucose oligosaccharides, fructooligosaccharides, or combinations thereof. 3. The low calorie sugar substitute composition of claim 2, the digestion resistant soluble fiber derived from a food source selected from the group consisting of tapioca, corn, rice, oats, potatoes, yams, carrots, bananas, plantains, pumpkins, chicory, Jerusalem artichoke, cassava, wheat, barley, beans, lentils, peas, quinoa, buckwheat, or combinations thereof. 4. The low calorie sugar substitute composition of claim 3, the digestion resistant soluble fiber comprising glucosyl moieties and/or fructosyl moieties, at least about 50% of the glucosyl moieties in the digestion resistant soluble fiber are linked by alpha-(1,6)-linkages and at least about 90% of the fructosyl moieties in the digestion resistant soluble fiber are linked by beta-(2,1) linkages. 5. The low calorie sugar substitute composition of claim 1, the natural fruit extract is Luo Han Guo extract. 6. The low calorie sugar substitute composition of claim 5, the Luo Han Guo extract having at least about 40% mogrosides in a powdered form. 7. The low calorie sugar substitute composition of claim 1, the flavor masking agent comprising Oryza sativa (rice) extract. 8. The low calorie sugar substitute composition of claim 1, further comprising a steviol glycoside, the steviol glycoside having a purity greater than about 60% by weight on a dry basis. 9. The low calorie sugar substitute composition of claim 8, the steviol glycoside selected from the group consisting of stevioside, Rebaudioside A, Rebaudioside B, Rebaudioside C, Rebaudioside D, Rebaudioside E, Rebaudioside X, any other Rebaudioside, Dulcoside A, or combinations thereof. 10. The low calorie sugar substitute composition of claim 9, the Rebaudioside A having a purity greater than about 98% by weight on a dry basis. 11. The low calorie sugar substitute composition of claim 8, the composition having from about 65% to about 100% of the sweetness level (dextrose equivalent) of sugar without a bitter or chemical aftertaste. 12. The low calorie sugar substitute composition of claim 8, the composition having a glycemic index from about 4 GI to about 35 GI. 13. The low calorie sugar substitute composition of claim 9, the composition comprising between about 90% and 99.5% by weight of the digestion resistant soluble fiber, between about 0.1% and 5% by weight of the flavor masking agent, between about 0.01% and 1% by weight of the Rebaudioside A, and between about 0.01% and 2.5% by weight of the Luo Han Guo extract. 14. The low calorie sugar substitute composition of claim 9, the composition comprising between about 90% and 98.5% by weight of the digestion resistant soluble fiber, between about 0.1% and 7% by weight of the flavor masking agent, between about 0.01% and 0.8% by weight of the Rebaudioside A, between about 0.01% and 2.59% by weight of the Luo Han Guo extract, the composition further comprising between about 0.1% and about 6% by weight of a natural vanilla flavored agent. 15. The low calorie sugar substitute composition of claim 14, the natural vanilla flavored agent comprising pre-made vanilla flavored powder. 16. The low calorie sugar substitute composition of claim 14, the natural vanilla flavored agent comprising freshly-grounded Vanilla Beans. 17. The low calorie sugar substitute composition of claim 1, the composition stimulating growth of at least one beneficial human gut bacterium. 18. The low calorie sugar substitute composition of claim 17, the at least one beneficial human gut bacterium is bifdobacterium. 19. The low calorie sugar substitute composition of claim 4, the composition having additional nutritive properties and functions of sugar when combined with nutritional additives selected from the group consisting of probiotics, turmeric, ginger, banana, blueberry, strawberry, acai, papaya, mango, pineapple, apple, cinnamon, pepper, nut, seed, vanilla, coffee, cacao, green tea extracts, or combinations thereof. | What is provided are sugar substitute compositions comprising natural ingredients that provide added human health benefits and properties and characteristics of sugar, without the caloric content and glycemic index of sugar. Unlike artificial sweeteners, the sugar substitute compositions contain no chemicals or synthetic additives and taste and function like sugar. Specifically, the sugar substitute compositions comprise digestion resistant soluble fiber comprising an oligosaccharide matrix of glucose and/or fructose oligomers, which yield the sugar substitute digestion resistant property and allow it to simultaneously enhance the growth of beneficial bacteria in the human gut. In one particular embodiment, the sugar substitute comprises a digestion resistant soluble fiber, Luo Han Guo extract, and a flavor masking agent comprising Oryza sativa (rice) extract. In another embodiment, the sugar substitute comprises a digestion resistant soluble fiber, Luo Han Guo extract, a flavor masking agent comprising Oryza sativa (rice) extract, and a steviol glycoside.1. A low calorie sugar substitute composition comprising:
a digestion resistant soluble fiber; a flavor masking agent; and a natural fruit extract. 2. The low calorie sugar substitute composition of claim 1, the digestion resistant soluble fiber selected from the group consisting of inulin, soluble corn (gluco) fiber, glucose oligosaccharides, fructooligosaccharides, or combinations thereof. 3. The low calorie sugar substitute composition of claim 2, the digestion resistant soluble fiber derived from a food source selected from the group consisting of tapioca, corn, rice, oats, potatoes, yams, carrots, bananas, plantains, pumpkins, chicory, Jerusalem artichoke, cassava, wheat, barley, beans, lentils, peas, quinoa, buckwheat, or combinations thereof. 4. The low calorie sugar substitute composition of claim 3, the digestion resistant soluble fiber comprising glucosyl moieties and/or fructosyl moieties, at least about 50% of the glucosyl moieties in the digestion resistant soluble fiber are linked by alpha-(1,6)-linkages and at least about 90% of the fructosyl moieties in the digestion resistant soluble fiber are linked by beta-(2,1) linkages. 5. The low calorie sugar substitute composition of claim 1, the natural fruit extract is Luo Han Guo extract. 6. The low calorie sugar substitute composition of claim 5, the Luo Han Guo extract having at least about 40% mogrosides in a powdered form. 7. The low calorie sugar substitute composition of claim 1, the flavor masking agent comprising Oryza sativa (rice) extract. 8. The low calorie sugar substitute composition of claim 1, further comprising a steviol glycoside, the steviol glycoside having a purity greater than about 60% by weight on a dry basis. 9. The low calorie sugar substitute composition of claim 8, the steviol glycoside selected from the group consisting of stevioside, Rebaudioside A, Rebaudioside B, Rebaudioside C, Rebaudioside D, Rebaudioside E, Rebaudioside X, any other Rebaudioside, Dulcoside A, or combinations thereof. 10. The low calorie sugar substitute composition of claim 9, the Rebaudioside A having a purity greater than about 98% by weight on a dry basis. 11. The low calorie sugar substitute composition of claim 8, the composition having from about 65% to about 100% of the sweetness level (dextrose equivalent) of sugar without a bitter or chemical aftertaste. 12. The low calorie sugar substitute composition of claim 8, the composition having a glycemic index from about 4 GI to about 35 GI. 13. The low calorie sugar substitute composition of claim 9, the composition comprising between about 90% and 99.5% by weight of the digestion resistant soluble fiber, between about 0.1% and 5% by weight of the flavor masking agent, between about 0.01% and 1% by weight of the Rebaudioside A, and between about 0.01% and 2.5% by weight of the Luo Han Guo extract. 14. The low calorie sugar substitute composition of claim 9, the composition comprising between about 90% and 98.5% by weight of the digestion resistant soluble fiber, between about 0.1% and 7% by weight of the flavor masking agent, between about 0.01% and 0.8% by weight of the Rebaudioside A, between about 0.01% and 2.59% by weight of the Luo Han Guo extract, the composition further comprising between about 0.1% and about 6% by weight of a natural vanilla flavored agent. 15. The low calorie sugar substitute composition of claim 14, the natural vanilla flavored agent comprising pre-made vanilla flavored powder. 16. The low calorie sugar substitute composition of claim 14, the natural vanilla flavored agent comprising freshly-grounded Vanilla Beans. 17. The low calorie sugar substitute composition of claim 1, the composition stimulating growth of at least one beneficial human gut bacterium. 18. The low calorie sugar substitute composition of claim 17, the at least one beneficial human gut bacterium is bifdobacterium. 19. The low calorie sugar substitute composition of claim 4, the composition having additional nutritive properties and functions of sugar when combined with nutritional additives selected from the group consisting of probiotics, turmeric, ginger, banana, blueberry, strawberry, acai, papaya, mango, pineapple, apple, cinnamon, pepper, nut, seed, vanilla, coffee, cacao, green tea extracts, or combinations thereof. | 1,700 |
4,096 | 10,347,018 | 1,792 | A supported comestible comprises a frozen comestible ( 84 ), or a non-frozen comestible ( 102 ), that is supported by an edible support ( 60, 62, 64, 68, 70, 72, 74, 96, 98, 116 ). The edible support has sufficient surface area inside the comestible ( 84, 102 ) to support the comestible. The edible support has sufficient surface area outside the comestible to provide a utilitarian support for the comestible. Protective, edible mess guards ( 76, 78 ), for the hands and fingers, protective, edible drip guards ( 80 ), freestanding edible supports ( 98 ), edible moisture-proof barriers/coatings and sealants ( 86 ), edible supported working models, multi-ingredient supports, mini and large size confections, comestible kits, protective packaging ( 112 ), stick alignment device ( 80, 118 ), and an “all in one” mold and packaging apparatus for frozen confections ( 120 ) are also provided. | 1. A supported comestible comprising,
(a) a comestible comprising a body of an edible substance, and (b) a substantially homogenous edible support suitable for supporting said comestible, said edible support having a first portion extending into said comestible, said first portion having sufficient surface area and means for adherence within said comestible to dependably support said comestible, said edible support having a second portion extending outside said comestible, said second portion having sufficient surface area for providing a utilitarian support for said comestible. 2. The supported comestible of claim of 1 wherein said comestible comprising a body of an edible substance is substantially frozen. 3. The supported comestible of claim of 1 wherein said edible support comprises a selection from a group comprising, a) a sugar, b) a sugar substitute, c) a candy ingredient, d) a candy, and e) an ingredient of a manufacturer. 4. The supported comestible of claim 1, further including sufficient surface area on said second portion so that a person can hold said edible support and said comestible with a hand. 5. The supported comestible of claim 1, further including means for providing a supported comestible with an already familiar taste for a consumer, said already familiar taste for a consumer comprises a familiar tasting ingredient of a manufacturer and provides a familiar flavor to said consumer. 6. The supported comestible of claim 1, further including means for providing a supported comestible designed for a child. 7. The supported comestible of claim 1, further including a moisture-proof barrier on said comestible and said edible support, said moisture-proof barrier comprises a) means for preventing the transfer of moisture from said supported comestible to said edible support, b) means for providing a secure hold of said supported comestible to said edible support for consumption of said supported comestible, c) means for providing a prolonged shelf life for said supported comestible, d) means for providing additional flavor and enjoyment on said edible support, wherein said moisture-proof barrier comprises a) texture on said moisture-proof barrier for providing additional adherence of said supported comestible to said edible support, and b) additional flavor and a light crunch texture on said supported comestible and said plurality of supported comestibles. 8. The supported comestible of claim 1, wherein said supported comestible comprises a three dimensional design. 9. A substantially homogenous edible support, being suitable for use in supporting a frozen comestible comprising a body of an edible substance, said edible support having a first portion for extending into said frozen comestible, said first portion having a sufficient surface area and means for adherence within said frozen comestible to dependably support said frozen comestible, said edible support having a second portion for extending outside said frozen comestible, said second portion having a sufficient surface area outside said frozen comestible for providing a utilitarian support for said frozen comestible. 10. The substantially homogenous edible support of claim 9, further including means for providing an audible whistle toy. 11. A supported frozen comestible comprising,
(a) a comestible comprising a body of a frozen edible substance, (b) a substantially homogenous edible support suitable for providing a dependable utilitarian support to said comestible, and (c) means for supporting said comestible. 12. The supported frozen comestible of claim 11 wherein said edible support is a substantially non-malleable support. 13. The supported frozen comestible of claim 11 wherein said edible support comprises a confection. 14. The supported frozen comestible of claim 11, further including means for providing a supported comestible designed for a child. 15. The supported frozen comestible of claim 11, further including means for providing a very strong edible support. 16. A method of providing a supported frozen comestible comprising,
(a) providing a comestible comprising a body of an edible substance suitable for freezing, (b) providing a substantially homogenous edible support, said edible support having first and second portions for supporting said comestible, (c) inserting said first portion of said edible support into said comestible, said first portion comprising sufficient surface area and means for adherence inside said comestible to dependably support said comestible, (d) freezing said comestible and said homogenous edible support, and (e) leaving said second portion, having sufficient surface area outside of said comestible to provide a dependable utilitarian support for said comestible, whereby a person can enjoy a longer lasting supported frozen comestible, which includes eating the stick. 17. The method of providing a supported frozen comestible of claim of 16 wherein said supported frozen comestible comprises a substantially non-malleable support. 18. The method of providing a supported frozen comestible of claim 16, further including sufficient surface area on said second portion, so that a person can hold said edible support and said frozen comestible with a hand. 19. The method of providing a supported frozen comestible of claim 16, further including means for providing a supported comestible designed for a child. 20. The method of providing a supported frozen comestible of claim 16 wherein said supported frozen comestible comprises a three dimensional design. | A supported comestible comprises a frozen comestible ( 84 ), or a non-frozen comestible ( 102 ), that is supported by an edible support ( 60, 62, 64, 68, 70, 72, 74, 96, 98, 116 ). The edible support has sufficient surface area inside the comestible ( 84, 102 ) to support the comestible. The edible support has sufficient surface area outside the comestible to provide a utilitarian support for the comestible. Protective, edible mess guards ( 76, 78 ), for the hands and fingers, protective, edible drip guards ( 80 ), freestanding edible supports ( 98 ), edible moisture-proof barriers/coatings and sealants ( 86 ), edible supported working models, multi-ingredient supports, mini and large size confections, comestible kits, protective packaging ( 112 ), stick alignment device ( 80, 118 ), and an “all in one” mold and packaging apparatus for frozen confections ( 120 ) are also provided.1. A supported comestible comprising,
(a) a comestible comprising a body of an edible substance, and (b) a substantially homogenous edible support suitable for supporting said comestible, said edible support having a first portion extending into said comestible, said first portion having sufficient surface area and means for adherence within said comestible to dependably support said comestible, said edible support having a second portion extending outside said comestible, said second portion having sufficient surface area for providing a utilitarian support for said comestible. 2. The supported comestible of claim of 1 wherein said comestible comprising a body of an edible substance is substantially frozen. 3. The supported comestible of claim of 1 wherein said edible support comprises a selection from a group comprising, a) a sugar, b) a sugar substitute, c) a candy ingredient, d) a candy, and e) an ingredient of a manufacturer. 4. The supported comestible of claim 1, further including sufficient surface area on said second portion so that a person can hold said edible support and said comestible with a hand. 5. The supported comestible of claim 1, further including means for providing a supported comestible with an already familiar taste for a consumer, said already familiar taste for a consumer comprises a familiar tasting ingredient of a manufacturer and provides a familiar flavor to said consumer. 6. The supported comestible of claim 1, further including means for providing a supported comestible designed for a child. 7. The supported comestible of claim 1, further including a moisture-proof barrier on said comestible and said edible support, said moisture-proof barrier comprises a) means for preventing the transfer of moisture from said supported comestible to said edible support, b) means for providing a secure hold of said supported comestible to said edible support for consumption of said supported comestible, c) means for providing a prolonged shelf life for said supported comestible, d) means for providing additional flavor and enjoyment on said edible support, wherein said moisture-proof barrier comprises a) texture on said moisture-proof barrier for providing additional adherence of said supported comestible to said edible support, and b) additional flavor and a light crunch texture on said supported comestible and said plurality of supported comestibles. 8. The supported comestible of claim 1, wherein said supported comestible comprises a three dimensional design. 9. A substantially homogenous edible support, being suitable for use in supporting a frozen comestible comprising a body of an edible substance, said edible support having a first portion for extending into said frozen comestible, said first portion having a sufficient surface area and means for adherence within said frozen comestible to dependably support said frozen comestible, said edible support having a second portion for extending outside said frozen comestible, said second portion having a sufficient surface area outside said frozen comestible for providing a utilitarian support for said frozen comestible. 10. The substantially homogenous edible support of claim 9, further including means for providing an audible whistle toy. 11. A supported frozen comestible comprising,
(a) a comestible comprising a body of a frozen edible substance, (b) a substantially homogenous edible support suitable for providing a dependable utilitarian support to said comestible, and (c) means for supporting said comestible. 12. The supported frozen comestible of claim 11 wherein said edible support is a substantially non-malleable support. 13. The supported frozen comestible of claim 11 wherein said edible support comprises a confection. 14. The supported frozen comestible of claim 11, further including means for providing a supported comestible designed for a child. 15. The supported frozen comestible of claim 11, further including means for providing a very strong edible support. 16. A method of providing a supported frozen comestible comprising,
(a) providing a comestible comprising a body of an edible substance suitable for freezing, (b) providing a substantially homogenous edible support, said edible support having first and second portions for supporting said comestible, (c) inserting said first portion of said edible support into said comestible, said first portion comprising sufficient surface area and means for adherence inside said comestible to dependably support said comestible, (d) freezing said comestible and said homogenous edible support, and (e) leaving said second portion, having sufficient surface area outside of said comestible to provide a dependable utilitarian support for said comestible, whereby a person can enjoy a longer lasting supported frozen comestible, which includes eating the stick. 17. The method of providing a supported frozen comestible of claim of 16 wherein said supported frozen comestible comprises a substantially non-malleable support. 18. The method of providing a supported frozen comestible of claim 16, further including sufficient surface area on said second portion, so that a person can hold said edible support and said frozen comestible with a hand. 19. The method of providing a supported frozen comestible of claim 16, further including means for providing a supported comestible designed for a child. 20. The method of providing a supported frozen comestible of claim 16 wherein said supported frozen comestible comprises a three dimensional design. | 1,700 |
4,097 | 14,667,746 | 1,797 | An operator who operates an automatic analyzer can easily recognize a timing of adding a reagent to a specimen.
reagent is added to a specimen in a reaction container to cause the reagent and the specimen to react with each other, an optical property of the specimen in the reaction container is measured, and a display screen for measurement data is created. A display screen 100 for a measurement-data graph indicating a change over time in the measurement data (or a measurement-data list indicating a list of measurement data) is created as a display screen for the measurement data. In this display screen 100 , a display “x” or “y” indicating an addition timing of the reagent in the reaction container is added. | 1. An automatic analyzer, comprising:
a specimen-container holding section that holds a specimen container storing a specimen; a reagent-container holding section that holds a reagent container storing a reagent; a reaction-container holding section that holds a reaction container in which the reagent taken out from the reagent container is added to the specimen taken out from the specimen container to cause reaction; a measuring section that measures an optical property of the specimen in the reaction container to output a measurement result; and a display control section that creates a display screen for a measurement-data graph indicating a change over time in measurement data measured by the measuring section, or for a measurement-data list indicating a list of the measurement data, and adds, to the display screen, a display indicating a timing when the reagent is added to the reaction container. 2. The automatic analyzer according to claim 1, wherein
the display control section displays, on the display screen, a button for selecting on or off of a display indicating an addition timing of the reagent. 3. The automatic analyzer according to claim 2, wherein
the reagent, which is added to the reaction container, includes a first reagent and a second reagent, the display control section individually displays, on the display screen, an addition timing of the first reagent and an addition timing of the second reagent, and the button displayed on the display screen includes a first button for selecting on or off of a display indicating an addition timing of the first reagent, and a second button for selecting on or off of a display indicating an addition timing of the second reagent. 4. The automatic analyzer according to claim 1, wherein
the display control section displays a setting screen for selecting a presence or absence of a display of the addition timing of the reagent, and displays the addition timing of the reagent on the display screen in a case where the presence of the display of the addition timing of the reagent is set in advance through the setting screen. 5. The automatic analyzer according to claim 1, wherein
when generating a measurement data list indicating a list of measurement data to be displayed on the display screen, the display control section adds a symbol indicating an addition timing, to a measurement data at the addition timing of the reagent. 6. A method of displaying an analysis result, comprising the steps of:
adding a reagent to a specimen in a reaction container to cause the reagent and the specimen to react with each other; measuring an optical property of the specimen in the reaction container; and creating a display screen for a measurement-data graph indicating a change over time in measurement data on the optical property, or for a measurement-data list indicating a list of the measurement data; and adding, to the display screen, a display indicating a timing when the reagent is added to the reaction container. | An operator who operates an automatic analyzer can easily recognize a timing of adding a reagent to a specimen.
reagent is added to a specimen in a reaction container to cause the reagent and the specimen to react with each other, an optical property of the specimen in the reaction container is measured, and a display screen for measurement data is created. A display screen 100 for a measurement-data graph indicating a change over time in the measurement data (or a measurement-data list indicating a list of measurement data) is created as a display screen for the measurement data. In this display screen 100 , a display “x” or “y” indicating an addition timing of the reagent in the reaction container is added.1. An automatic analyzer, comprising:
a specimen-container holding section that holds a specimen container storing a specimen; a reagent-container holding section that holds a reagent container storing a reagent; a reaction-container holding section that holds a reaction container in which the reagent taken out from the reagent container is added to the specimen taken out from the specimen container to cause reaction; a measuring section that measures an optical property of the specimen in the reaction container to output a measurement result; and a display control section that creates a display screen for a measurement-data graph indicating a change over time in measurement data measured by the measuring section, or for a measurement-data list indicating a list of the measurement data, and adds, to the display screen, a display indicating a timing when the reagent is added to the reaction container. 2. The automatic analyzer according to claim 1, wherein
the display control section displays, on the display screen, a button for selecting on or off of a display indicating an addition timing of the reagent. 3. The automatic analyzer according to claim 2, wherein
the reagent, which is added to the reaction container, includes a first reagent and a second reagent, the display control section individually displays, on the display screen, an addition timing of the first reagent and an addition timing of the second reagent, and the button displayed on the display screen includes a first button for selecting on or off of a display indicating an addition timing of the first reagent, and a second button for selecting on or off of a display indicating an addition timing of the second reagent. 4. The automatic analyzer according to claim 1, wherein
the display control section displays a setting screen for selecting a presence or absence of a display of the addition timing of the reagent, and displays the addition timing of the reagent on the display screen in a case where the presence of the display of the addition timing of the reagent is set in advance through the setting screen. 5. The automatic analyzer according to claim 1, wherein
when generating a measurement data list indicating a list of measurement data to be displayed on the display screen, the display control section adds a symbol indicating an addition timing, to a measurement data at the addition timing of the reagent. 6. A method of displaying an analysis result, comprising the steps of:
adding a reagent to a specimen in a reaction container to cause the reagent and the specimen to react with each other; measuring an optical property of the specimen in the reaction container; and creating a display screen for a measurement-data graph indicating a change over time in measurement data on the optical property, or for a measurement-data list indicating a list of the measurement data; and adding, to the display screen, a display indicating a timing when the reagent is added to the reaction container. | 1,700 |
4,098 | 14,830,902 | 1,781 | Embossed polymer sheets and interlayers having at least one tapered zone are provided. The roughness of the embossed portion of the sheets and interlayers may be substantially uniform. Methods and systems for producing such interlayers are also described herein and may utilize at least one pair of rollers oriented substantially parallel to one another. When used in multiple layer panels, such as safety glass laminates, the embossed tapered interlayers described herein exhibit excellent optical performance, as indicated by the low haze and high clarity of the resulting panels. | 1. A polymeric sheet suitable for producing an interlayer, said sheet comprising:
at least one polymeric resin, wherein said sheet comprises at least one tapered zone and at least one substantially flat zone, wherein said tapered zone has a wedge angle of at least 0.10 mrad, wherein said substantially flat zone has a wedge angle of less than 0.05 mrad, wherein said sheet comprises at least one embossed surface, wherein at least 75 percent of said embossed surface has an Rz value within 25 percent of the average Rz value for the entire embossed surface. 2. The sheet of claim 1, wherein said tapered zone comprises at least one variable angle zone having a continuously varying wedge angle. 3. The sheet of claim 2, wherein said tapered zone further comprises at least one constant angle zone having a substantially constant wedge angle. 4. The sheet of claim 1, wherein said tapered zone comprises at least one constant angle zone having a substantially constant wedge angle. 5. The sheet of claim 4, wherein said tapered zone comprises two or more constant angle zones having different substantially constant wedge angles. 6. The sheet of claim 1, wherein said at least one substantially flat zone comprises two separate substantially flat zones, wherein one of said substantially flat zones forms the thinnest portion of said sheet and the other of said substantially flat zones forms the thickest portion of said sheet. 7. The sheet of claim 1, wherein said at least one tapered zone comprises a pair of oppositely-sloped tapered zones, wherein said at least one substantially flat zone includes a substantially flat central zone disposed between said pair of oppositely-sloped tapered zones and/or wherein said at least one substantially flat zone includes two substantially flat edge zones separated from one another by said pair of oppositely-sloped tapered zones. 8. The sheet of claim 1, wherein said embossed surface has an average Rz value in the range of from 20 to 90 microns. 9. The sheet of claim 1, wherein said sheet is a multiple layer sheet comprising at least a first polymeric layer and a second polymeric layer adjacent to said first polymeric layer, wherein said at least one polymeric resin present in said sheet comprises a poly(vinyl acetal) resin, and wherein at least one of said first and said second polymeric layers comprises said poly(vinyl acetal) resin and at least one plasticizer. 10. A polymeric sheet suitable for producing an interlayer, said sheet comprising:
at least one polymeric resin, wherein said sheet comprises at least two angled zones, each having a wedge angle of at least 0.1 mrad, wherein said sheet exhibits one or more of the following characteristics—
i. said two angled zones have different wedge angles,
ii. said two angled zones are oppositely sloped,
iii. said sheet comprises at least one substantially flat zone having a wedge angle of less than 0.05 mrad;
wherein said sheet comprises at least one embossed surface, wherein at least 75 percent of said embossed surface has an Rz value within 25 percent of the average Rz value for the entire embossed surface. 11. The sheet of claim 10, wherein said sheet is not symmetric about its centerline. 12. The sheet of claim 11, wherein said sheet exhibits characteristic (i) and wherein said sheet further comprises one tapered zone that includes both of said two angled zones. 13. The sheet of claim 10, wherein said sheet is symmetric about its centerline. 14. The sheet of claim 13, wherein said sheet exhibits characteristic (ii) and further comprises two oppositely-sloped tapered zones located on opposite sides of the centerline, wherein each of said oppositely-sloped tapered zones includes one of said two angled zones. 15. The sheet of claim 13, wherein said sheet further exhibits characteristic (iii) and wherein said at least one substantially flat zone includes a substantially flat central zone bisected by the centerline and/or wherein said at least one substantially flat zone includes two substantially flat edge zones spaced from one another and located on opposite sides of the centerline. 16. The sheet of claim 10, wherein at least one of said angled zones is a variable angle zone having a continuously varying wedge angle. 17. The sheet of claim 16, wherein at least one of said angled zones is a constant angle zone having a substantially constant wedge angle. 18. The sheet of claim 10, wherein said sheet comprises a multiple layer polymer sheet comprising at least a first polymeric layer and a second polymeric layer adjacent to said first polymeric layer, wherein at least one of said first and said second polymeric layers comprises a poly(vinyl acetal) resin and at least one plasticizer. 19. A method of making an interlayer, said method comprising:
(a) providing at least one pair of rollers defining a nip therebetween, wherein at least one of said rollers comprises an embossing surface; (b) passing a polymeric sheet between said rollers through said nip; and (c) during said passing, contacting said polymeric sheet with at least a portion of said embossing surface under conditions sufficient to form an embossed region on at least a portion of at least one surface of said polymeric sheet, wherein said polymeric sheet includes at least one tapered zone having a minimum wedge angle of at least 0.1 mrad, wherein the angle defined between the axes of rotation of each of said rollers is less than said minimum wedge angle. 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the angle defined between the axes of rotation of said rollers is less than 0.05 mrad. 21. The method of claim 19, wherein at least 75 percent of said embossed region has an Rz value within 25 percent of the average Rz value for the entire embossed region. 22. The method of claim 19, wherein at least a portion of the surface of the other of said rollers is coated with a rubber material having a Shore A hardness in the range of from 20 to 90. 23. The method of claim 19, further comprising another pair of rollers with a second nip defined therebetween, wherein at least one of said rollers in said another pair comprises a second embossing surface; passing said polymeric sheet between said another pair of rollers through said second nip and, during said passing, contacting said polymeric sheet with at least a portion of said second embossing surface under conditions sufficient to form another embossed region on at least a portion of another surface of said polymeric sheet | Embossed polymer sheets and interlayers having at least one tapered zone are provided. The roughness of the embossed portion of the sheets and interlayers may be substantially uniform. Methods and systems for producing such interlayers are also described herein and may utilize at least one pair of rollers oriented substantially parallel to one another. When used in multiple layer panels, such as safety glass laminates, the embossed tapered interlayers described herein exhibit excellent optical performance, as indicated by the low haze and high clarity of the resulting panels.1. A polymeric sheet suitable for producing an interlayer, said sheet comprising:
at least one polymeric resin, wherein said sheet comprises at least one tapered zone and at least one substantially flat zone, wherein said tapered zone has a wedge angle of at least 0.10 mrad, wherein said substantially flat zone has a wedge angle of less than 0.05 mrad, wherein said sheet comprises at least one embossed surface, wherein at least 75 percent of said embossed surface has an Rz value within 25 percent of the average Rz value for the entire embossed surface. 2. The sheet of claim 1, wherein said tapered zone comprises at least one variable angle zone having a continuously varying wedge angle. 3. The sheet of claim 2, wherein said tapered zone further comprises at least one constant angle zone having a substantially constant wedge angle. 4. The sheet of claim 1, wherein said tapered zone comprises at least one constant angle zone having a substantially constant wedge angle. 5. The sheet of claim 4, wherein said tapered zone comprises two or more constant angle zones having different substantially constant wedge angles. 6. The sheet of claim 1, wherein said at least one substantially flat zone comprises two separate substantially flat zones, wherein one of said substantially flat zones forms the thinnest portion of said sheet and the other of said substantially flat zones forms the thickest portion of said sheet. 7. The sheet of claim 1, wherein said at least one tapered zone comprises a pair of oppositely-sloped tapered zones, wherein said at least one substantially flat zone includes a substantially flat central zone disposed between said pair of oppositely-sloped tapered zones and/or wherein said at least one substantially flat zone includes two substantially flat edge zones separated from one another by said pair of oppositely-sloped tapered zones. 8. The sheet of claim 1, wherein said embossed surface has an average Rz value in the range of from 20 to 90 microns. 9. The sheet of claim 1, wherein said sheet is a multiple layer sheet comprising at least a first polymeric layer and a second polymeric layer adjacent to said first polymeric layer, wherein said at least one polymeric resin present in said sheet comprises a poly(vinyl acetal) resin, and wherein at least one of said first and said second polymeric layers comprises said poly(vinyl acetal) resin and at least one plasticizer. 10. A polymeric sheet suitable for producing an interlayer, said sheet comprising:
at least one polymeric resin, wherein said sheet comprises at least two angled zones, each having a wedge angle of at least 0.1 mrad, wherein said sheet exhibits one or more of the following characteristics—
i. said two angled zones have different wedge angles,
ii. said two angled zones are oppositely sloped,
iii. said sheet comprises at least one substantially flat zone having a wedge angle of less than 0.05 mrad;
wherein said sheet comprises at least one embossed surface, wherein at least 75 percent of said embossed surface has an Rz value within 25 percent of the average Rz value for the entire embossed surface. 11. The sheet of claim 10, wherein said sheet is not symmetric about its centerline. 12. The sheet of claim 11, wherein said sheet exhibits characteristic (i) and wherein said sheet further comprises one tapered zone that includes both of said two angled zones. 13. The sheet of claim 10, wherein said sheet is symmetric about its centerline. 14. The sheet of claim 13, wherein said sheet exhibits characteristic (ii) and further comprises two oppositely-sloped tapered zones located on opposite sides of the centerline, wherein each of said oppositely-sloped tapered zones includes one of said two angled zones. 15. The sheet of claim 13, wherein said sheet further exhibits characteristic (iii) and wherein said at least one substantially flat zone includes a substantially flat central zone bisected by the centerline and/or wherein said at least one substantially flat zone includes two substantially flat edge zones spaced from one another and located on opposite sides of the centerline. 16. The sheet of claim 10, wherein at least one of said angled zones is a variable angle zone having a continuously varying wedge angle. 17. The sheet of claim 16, wherein at least one of said angled zones is a constant angle zone having a substantially constant wedge angle. 18. The sheet of claim 10, wherein said sheet comprises a multiple layer polymer sheet comprising at least a first polymeric layer and a second polymeric layer adjacent to said first polymeric layer, wherein at least one of said first and said second polymeric layers comprises a poly(vinyl acetal) resin and at least one plasticizer. 19. A method of making an interlayer, said method comprising:
(a) providing at least one pair of rollers defining a nip therebetween, wherein at least one of said rollers comprises an embossing surface; (b) passing a polymeric sheet between said rollers through said nip; and (c) during said passing, contacting said polymeric sheet with at least a portion of said embossing surface under conditions sufficient to form an embossed region on at least a portion of at least one surface of said polymeric sheet, wherein said polymeric sheet includes at least one tapered zone having a minimum wedge angle of at least 0.1 mrad, wherein the angle defined between the axes of rotation of each of said rollers is less than said minimum wedge angle. 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the angle defined between the axes of rotation of said rollers is less than 0.05 mrad. 21. The method of claim 19, wherein at least 75 percent of said embossed region has an Rz value within 25 percent of the average Rz value for the entire embossed region. 22. The method of claim 19, wherein at least a portion of the surface of the other of said rollers is coated with a rubber material having a Shore A hardness in the range of from 20 to 90. 23. The method of claim 19, further comprising another pair of rollers with a second nip defined therebetween, wherein at least one of said rollers in said another pair comprises a second embossing surface; passing said polymeric sheet between said another pair of rollers through said second nip and, during said passing, contacting said polymeric sheet with at least a portion of said second embossing surface under conditions sufficient to form another embossed region on at least a portion of another surface of said polymeric sheet | 1,700 |
4,099 | 15,711,968 | 1,715 | A method of additive manufacturing of an object may include directing laser energy from a laser to a region for material deposition, extruding material using an extruder at the region of material deposition, sensing temperature within the region of the material deposition, and electronically controlling the laser energy using the temperature so as to sufficiently heat the region for material deposition prior to extruding the material to increase strength of the object. The method may include hardening or freezing extruded material through cooling in real-time. | 1. A method of additive manufacturing of an object comprising:
directing laser energy from a laser to a region for material deposition; extruding material using an extruder at the region of material deposition; sensing temperature within the region of the material deposition; electronically controlling the laser energy using the temperature so as to sufficiently heat the region for material deposition prior to extruding the material to increase strength of the object; and actively cooling the material. 2. The method of claim 1 wherein the laser comprises a laser diode. 3. The method of claim 1 wherein the strength of the object is increased by reducing susceptibility of delamination of layers of the object. 4. The method of claim 1 wherein the laser energy is pulsed laser energy. 5. The method of claim 1 wherein the laser energy is continuous wave laser energy. 6. The method of claim 1 wherein the laser energy textures the region for material deposition. 7. The method of claim 1 further comprising removing deposited material at the region for material deposition using the laser energy from the laser. 8. The method of claim 1 wherein the sensing the temperature is performed using a bolometer. 9. The method of claim 1 wherein the sensing the temperature is performed using a bolometer. 10. The method of claim 1 wherein the sensing the temperature is performed using thermal imaging detector. 11. The method of claim 1 wherein the sensing the temperature is performed using a fiber detector. 12. The method of claim 1 wherein the laser is a free space laser. 13. The method of claim 1 wherein the laser energy is conveyed from the laser through a fiber delivery system. 14. The method of claim 1 wherein a plurality of fibers are used in sensing the temperature and directing the laser energy. 15. The method of claim 14 wherein the plurality of fibers are arranged in a ring configuration around a pen tip of the extruder. 16. The method of claim 1 wherein the laser energy textures a surface of the region of material deposition in order to prepare the surface. 17. The method of claim 1 further comprising identifying the region of material deposition as a defective area. 18. The method of claim 17 wherein the directing the laser energy from the laser to the region for material deposition provides for smoothing the defective area. 19. The method of claim 17 further comprising milling the defective area. 20. The method of claim 1 wherein the active cooling is in real-time. 21. The method of claim 20 wherein the active cooling is performed using a cooled fluid released from a cooling tube. 22. The method of claim 21 wherein the cooled fluid comprises air. 23. The method of claim 21 wherein the cooled fluid comprises liquid nitrogen. 24. A system for additive manufacturing, comprising:
an extruder for extruding a material onto a surface; a laser for directing laser energy onto the surface; a heat detector for sensing temperature at the surface; a cooling unit; a control system operatively connected to the extruder, the heat detector, the cooling unit and the laser; wherein the control system is configured to control the directing of the laser energy onto the surface based on the temperature at the surface sensed using the heat detector to heat a region of the surface prior to extruding the material onto the surface and to control the cooling of the material using the cooling unit. 25. The system of claim 24 wherein the cooling unit comprises a cooling tube. | A method of additive manufacturing of an object may include directing laser energy from a laser to a region for material deposition, extruding material using an extruder at the region of material deposition, sensing temperature within the region of the material deposition, and electronically controlling the laser energy using the temperature so as to sufficiently heat the region for material deposition prior to extruding the material to increase strength of the object. The method may include hardening or freezing extruded material through cooling in real-time.1. A method of additive manufacturing of an object comprising:
directing laser energy from a laser to a region for material deposition; extruding material using an extruder at the region of material deposition; sensing temperature within the region of the material deposition; electronically controlling the laser energy using the temperature so as to sufficiently heat the region for material deposition prior to extruding the material to increase strength of the object; and actively cooling the material. 2. The method of claim 1 wherein the laser comprises a laser diode. 3. The method of claim 1 wherein the strength of the object is increased by reducing susceptibility of delamination of layers of the object. 4. The method of claim 1 wherein the laser energy is pulsed laser energy. 5. The method of claim 1 wherein the laser energy is continuous wave laser energy. 6. The method of claim 1 wherein the laser energy textures the region for material deposition. 7. The method of claim 1 further comprising removing deposited material at the region for material deposition using the laser energy from the laser. 8. The method of claim 1 wherein the sensing the temperature is performed using a bolometer. 9. The method of claim 1 wherein the sensing the temperature is performed using a bolometer. 10. The method of claim 1 wherein the sensing the temperature is performed using thermal imaging detector. 11. The method of claim 1 wherein the sensing the temperature is performed using a fiber detector. 12. The method of claim 1 wherein the laser is a free space laser. 13. The method of claim 1 wherein the laser energy is conveyed from the laser through a fiber delivery system. 14. The method of claim 1 wherein a plurality of fibers are used in sensing the temperature and directing the laser energy. 15. The method of claim 14 wherein the plurality of fibers are arranged in a ring configuration around a pen tip of the extruder. 16. The method of claim 1 wherein the laser energy textures a surface of the region of material deposition in order to prepare the surface. 17. The method of claim 1 further comprising identifying the region of material deposition as a defective area. 18. The method of claim 17 wherein the directing the laser energy from the laser to the region for material deposition provides for smoothing the defective area. 19. The method of claim 17 further comprising milling the defective area. 20. The method of claim 1 wherein the active cooling is in real-time. 21. The method of claim 20 wherein the active cooling is performed using a cooled fluid released from a cooling tube. 22. The method of claim 21 wherein the cooled fluid comprises air. 23. The method of claim 21 wherein the cooled fluid comprises liquid nitrogen. 24. A system for additive manufacturing, comprising:
an extruder for extruding a material onto a surface; a laser for directing laser energy onto the surface; a heat detector for sensing temperature at the surface; a cooling unit; a control system operatively connected to the extruder, the heat detector, the cooling unit and the laser; wherein the control system is configured to control the directing of the laser energy onto the surface based on the temperature at the surface sensed using the heat detector to heat a region of the surface prior to extruding the material onto the surface and to control the cooling of the material using the cooling unit. 25. The system of claim 24 wherein the cooling unit comprises a cooling tube. | 1,700 |
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