Abstract: A multi-layer backsheet for a photovoltaic module comprising a first layer having a reflectance of more than 25% of a light with a wavelength anywhere from about 1000 nm to about 2100 nm, and a reflectance of less than 35% of all light with a wavelength from about 380 nm to about 750 nm; and a second layer having a reflectance of more than 50% of all light with a wavelength from about 380 nm to about 2000 nm. A photovoltaic module comprising the multi-layer backsheet, a method of making the photovoltaic module, and a method of converting sunlight into electricity by exposing the photovoltaic module to sun light.

Abstract: A multi-layer backsheet for a photovoltaic module comprising a first layer having a reflectance of more than 25% of a light with a wavelength anywhere from about 1000 nm to about 2100 nm, and a reflectance of less than 35% of all light with a wavelength from about 380 nm to about 750 nm; and a second layer having a reflectance of more than 50% of all light with a wavelength from about 380 nm to about 2000 nm. A photovoltaic module comprising the multi-layer backsheet, a method of making the photovoltaic module, and a method of converting sunlight into electricity by exposing the photovoltaic module to sun light.

Abstract: An admixture for minimizing or preventing dust on surfaces of cured cement and concrete structures comprises a shrinkage reducing additive in combination with a fatty alcohol. Cementitious compositions containing the admixture, and methods for reducing dusting on cement structures, are also described.

Abstract: An admixture for minimizing or preventing dust on surfaces of cured cement and concrete structures comprises a shrinkage reducing additive in combination with a fatty alcohol. Cementitious compositions containing the admixture, and methods for reducing dusting on cement structures, is also described.

Abstract: A composition for improving the freeze thaw durability of masonry concrete comprising (i) an alkylaryl polyether alcohol having the formula R-Ø-(OCH2CH2)xOH, wherein R is a C4-C8 alkyl group (preferably branched), Ø represents a phenol group, and “X” represents an integer in the range of 3-70; and (ii) at least one efflorescence control admixture, such as a C8-C30 fatty acid or its salt or derivative. An exemplary masonry concrete composition of the invention comprises an alkylaryl polyether alcohol having the formula R-Ø-(OCH2CH2)xOH, wherein R is a C4-C8 alkyl group, Ø represents a phenol group, and “X” represents an integer in the range of 3-70; the composition, when wet, having essentially zero slump when tested by the standard cone method for measuring slump. Methods of improving the freeze-thaw durability of masonry units are also disclosed.

Abstract: A masonry concrete, for use in making segmental retaining wall units, pavers, blocks, and the like, having zero slump and incorporating betaine for improving freeze-thaw durability, and optionally efflorescent control agents and/or water reducer agents. Exemplary admixtures and methods of improving the freeze-thaw durability of masonry units are also disclosed.

Abstract: A cementitious composition is disclosed whereby visible efflorescence is prevented when formed into a cement masonry concrete unit. Efflorescence is controlled by incorporation of a polymer comprising a polyacrylic acid or salt or derivative thereof having an average molecular weight in the range of 5004-9,000, and more preferably in the average molecular weight range of 1,000 to 10,000.

Abstract: A concrete composition capable of inhibiting shrinkage of structural concrete structures is disclosed. The concrete is formed with an admixture composed of at least one secondary/tertiary alkanediol.

Abstract: A cement admixture composed of a mixture of certain lower alkyl ether oxyalkylene adducts with certain higher alkylene diols to provide cement compositions of mortar and concrete which inhibit drying shrinkage while permitting substantial air entrainment and enhanced compressive strength.

Abstract: The subject invention is directed to a cement admixture composition composed of certain alkylene glycols and copolymers of alkenyl ether and maleic anhydride. The present admixture provides a means to inhibit drying shrinkage of cement compositions while enhancing the compressive strength of the set composition.

Abstract: Flexible metal foil catalyst members suitable for use in catalytic devices for combustion engine emission control are prepared by electrophoretic deposition using an aqueous slurry of catalyst support particles. The deposited support layer is of uniform thickness and stable surface area. The catalyst support may then be impregnated with catalytic species and assembled into a catalytic device. The catalyst members from the invention are especially suitable for use in automotive applications, and more especially in electrically heated catalytic devices.

Abstract: Flexible metal foil catalyst members suitable for use in catalytic devices for combustion engine emission control are prepared by electrophoretic deposition using an aqueous slurry of catalyst support particles. The deposited support layer is of uniform thickness and stable surface area. The catalyst support may then be impregnated with catalytic species and assembled into a catalytic device. The catalyst members from the invention are especially suitable for use in automotive applications, and more especially in electrically heated catalytic devices.

Abstract: A cement admixture composed of a low molecular weight oxyalkylene compound and a comb polymer having carboxylic acid groups and oxyalkylene units therein.

Abstract: A bioremediation support for the support of microorganisms used in the biotreatment of an aqueous waste stream or contaminated vapor is made of a low-density siliceous glassy material. This material has a cellular or frothy texture, large pores of greater than 1,000 Anstrom units in diameter dispersed throughout the material, a high macropore volume in pores of greater than 1,000 .ANG. of more than 0.3 cc/cc and a BET surface area of greater than 10 m.sup.2 /g. A preferred material is pumice.

Abstract: Ceramic bodies having conically shaped pores are produced by electrophoretic deposition from aqueous ceramic particle suspensions. The dense ceramic bodies may be fabricated in the form of tubes having the pores radiating inward or outward. Alternatively, other shapes may be fabricated. The bodies are useful as filters, burner elements, catalysts supports, etc.

Abstract: A bioremediation support for the support of microorganisms used in the biotreatment of an aqueous waste stream or contaminated vapor is made of a low-density siliceous glassy material. This material has a cellular or frothy texture, large pores of greater than 1,000 Anstrom units in diameter dispersed throughout the material, a high macropore volume in pores of greater than 1,000 .ANG. of more than 0.3 cc/cc and a BET surface area of greater than 10 m.sup.2 /g. A preferred material is pumice.

Abstract: Ceramic bodies having conically shaped pores are produced by electrophoretic deposition from aqueous ceramic particle suspensions. The dense ceramic bodies may be fabricated in the form of tubes having the pores radiating inward or outward. Alternatively, other shapes may be fabricated. The bodies are useful as filters, burner elements, catalysts supports, etc.

Abstract: A proteinaceous gelatin binder is used to make aqueous green ceramic compositions suitable for forming green ceramic tape by tape casting. Any known ceramic may be used. The tapes may be fired individual or as a laminate to produce sintered ceramic articles.

Abstract: The invention encompasses a method of forming a densified ceramic part comprising the steps:a) forming an aqueous colloidal suspension of ceramic particles wherein the particles have a net positive surface charge;b) placing electrodes in the suspension, at least one of the electrodes being a cathode adapted to receive a deposit of the ceramic particles, the cathode being further adapted to absorb any electrolysis products evolving at its surface;c) placing a voltage across the electrodes whereby at least some of the ceramic particles are deposited on the cathode thereby coating the cathode;d) removing the deposited coating from the cathode as a unitary piece from the cathode; ande) heating the piece to form a densified ceramic part.