Abstract: This invention pertains to electrode cans and metal air electrochemical cells made with the electrode cans. The invention provides improved structure, and methods for making the outer edge of the closed end of the can at the joinder of the closed end of the can with an side wall extending from the closed end. A substantially flat portion of the outer surface of the closed end of the can extends outwardly of the inner surface of the side wall. The electrochemical cells are assembled using improved assembly methods. Button-type electrochemical cells made using the invention are free of the inward dishing common to especially cathode cans in such button cells.

Abstract: This invention pertains to electrochemical cells, and anode cans used therein, wherein edge regions of respective anode cans are toed-in. The anode can includes a top wall, and a first side wall depending downwardly from the top wall. The first side wall has an edge region remote from the top wall. The cathode can has a bottom wall, and a second side wall extending upwardly from the bottom wall. The edge region of the first side wall is displaced inwardly of the outer surface of the first side wall as defined at locations away from the edge region. Thus, the edge region is toed-in. Generally, the first side wall follows a path from an intermediate element of the first side wall to a distal edge of the first side wall, wherein no element of the path is directed toward the top wall. The invention further comprehends methods of making the above metal anode cans, and cells.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods of applying adhesive to a lateral edge of a first web. The method includes transporting the first web along a first path and transporting a second web along a second path generally in surface-to-surface relationship with the first web at the lateral edge, with the second web extending outwardly from the first web. When adhesive is applied such as by spraying to the first web at the lateral edge, at least some adhesive passes outwardly of the lateral edge as overspray and is received by the second web. Thus, adhesive applied to the edge of the first web is received in combination by both of the first and second webs. Both of the first and second webs can be utilized in manufacturing articles. In some embodiments, adhesive is applied at both first and second lateral edges of the first web. In some embodiments, spaced leg cutouts are formed in lateral edges of the web.

Abstract: This invention relates to absorbent pads, and methods for fabricating absorbent pads, having improved fluid intake and preferential wicking in the longitudinal direction. The absorbent pads have patterns of apertures which encourage the preferential wicking. The apertures are characterized by size, spacing from each other, and depth of penetration into the absorbent pad, such that fluid intake rate is increased and distribution of fluid in the longitudinal direction is improved. Apertures are preferably spaced close enough to each other that aqueous liquid is preferentially transferred from aperture to aperture by capillary effect, along the length of the absorbent pad. Preferential wicking between apertures in the longitudinal direction increases the overall effective liquid absorption rate of the absorbent pad, thereby increasing overall effective liquid capacity of the respective absorbent article.

Abstract: Block copolymers having two or more blocks may be prepared from vinyl-substituted aromatic hydrocarbons and a mixed isomer mixture of 1,3-pentadiene. At least one block is polymerized from the cis and trans-isomer mixture of 1,3-pentadiene. The amount of the mixed isomer mixture of 1,3-pentadiene polymerized may be increased by including in the mixed isomer mixture a cis-isomer polymerization promoter.

Abstract: An improved method for the polymerization of mixtures of mixed cis and trans-isomers of 1,3-pentadiene in the production of block copolymers. By continuously or incrementally adding a cis-isomer of 1,3-pentadiene polymerization promoter, using a hydrocarbon solvent with no aprotic solvents of a polar nature and not exceeding specified temperature ranges, the cis-isomer of 1,3-pentadiene is polymerized, resulting in a greater 1,3-pentadiene polymerization yield. The polymerization promoter is a vinyl-substituted aromatic monomer, for example styrene.

Abstract: Multilayer coextruded piezoelectric/pyroelectric elements and method for manufacturing these elements are disclosed. The layer configuration of the element permits easy application of conductive material to two separate faces and thus prevents short-circuiting.

Abstract: Olefin polymer films are produced comprising amounts of one or more permeability reducing fatty acid derivative compounds. The resultant films have improved barrier abilities as evidenced by reduced methyl bromide diffusion rates. The films are very suitably employed as soil fumigation tarpaulins or soil covering materials. Improved methods for confining chemical treatment agents are also taught.

Abstract: Generally closed cell phenolic foams are prepared which have a K-factor of less than 0.2, preferably from about 0.116 to about 0.170 Btu/hr - .degree.F. - ft - .sup.2 per inch of foam thickness when measured at 24.degree. Centigrade. The foams are prepared from a resole resin which has been stripped to a water level of less than 7 percent by weight, preferably from about 3 to about 6 percent by weight based on resin weight. A viscosity adjusting amount of a solvent, such as phenol, and from about 10 to about 20 weight percent, based on resin weight, of a polyglycol are also part of a foam forming formulation. Conventional surfactants, blowing agents and acidic catalysts are used to prepare the foams. The foams so prepared generally have no tendency to autoxidize when placed in an oven heated to a temperature of 250.degree. Centigrade. The foams so prepared also have enhanced resistance to flame penetration.

Abstract: An improved process for making synthetic paper/film from a blend of polystyrene and polyethylene resins wherein titanium dioxide is employed as the sole inorganic filler and the film is given an oxidizing post-treatment, such as corona discharge or surface sulfonation. The film so-prepared has improved adhesion to photographic gel emulsions.

Abstract: A hydronic heating system that includes a tube or series of tubes placed on modular composite panels. The panels are fabricated with a grooved surface to permit the flush embedment of the tubes on the panels.