Abstract: Disclosed is a toothpaste binder composition comprising semi-refined carrageenan. Examples of semi-refined carrageenan suitable for incorporation into a toothpaste binder are semi-refined kappa carrageenan and semi-refined iota carrageenan. Such a toothpaste binder may comprise, for example, semi-refined kappa carrageenan, semi-refined iota carrageenan, or a combination of both semi-refined kappa and iota carrageenan. Such a formulation is preferably comprised of about 10% to about 20% refined kappa-2/lambda carrageenan; about 35% to about 50% refined iota carrageenan; about 20% to about 30% semi-refined kappa and/or semi-refined iota carrageenan; and about 5% to about 20% standardizing agent; by dry weight. Specific formulations incorporating semi-refined carrageenan are described. Properties and characteristics exhibited by a toothpaste which incorporates the specific binder formulations are also described.

Abstract: Disclosed is a toothpaste composition comprising ultra low viscosity guar and carrageenan as a combination viscosity builder. In preferred embodiments of the toothpaste composition the combination viscosity builder comprises less than about 10% of the toothpaste composition by weight, and more preferably, about 0.5% to about 5% of the toothpaste composition by weight. The low viscosity guar preferably comprises less than about 50% of the combination viscosity builder by weight, and more preferably, about 20% to about 30% of the combination viscosity builder by weight. Also disclosed is a dry blend comprising about 20-30% low viscosity guar, about 50-60% iota-type carrageenan and about 20-30% lambda-type carrageenan. The specifications which relate to these components of the dry blend are identical to those discussed above in connection with the toothpaste composition. The dry blend, when appropriately hydrated, has a water viscosity of at least about 40 cps.

Abstract: Processes for making paper are disclosed wherein a cationic polymer and an amorphous metal silicate material are added to a paper furnish prior to introduction of the furnish to the headbox of a paper making apparatus.

Abstract: A process for improving art chemistry in papermaking is accomplished by the addition of a cationic polymer and natural hectorite to the furnish prior to headbox. The cationic polymer has an intrinsic viscosity in the range of 5 to 25 dl/g and a charge density of 0.78 to 5 equivalent cationic nitrogen per Kg. The natural hectorite is added in an amount of 0.5 to 6 lbs/ton dry base sheet and the weight ratio of cationic polymer to natural hectorite being 0.5:1 to 10:1.

Abstract: Addition of hectorite and a cationic starch to the furnish in a paper making operation improves the retention of filler material and the quality of the paper.