Abstract: Manufactured fuel articles having, as a first component, an inner core of a primary fuel element, and as a second component, a combustible covering layer on the primary fuel element. In some embodiments, the covering layer is preferably at least about a nominal 1.5 millimeters thick, with a preferred thickness being at least about 3 millimeters. In other embodiments, the fuel article may be described as a primary fuel element with a combustible covering layer, wherein the primary fuel element comprises a substantial portion of at least one of the ends, and the covering layer and the primary fuel element are in interfacial contact about a majority of the area of their facing surfaces.

Abstract: A cellulosic particle, especially useful as a cat litter, is manufactured by agglomerating a fibrous cellulosic feed material in the presence of water, compacting the surface of the agglomerated particles, and drying the particles.

Abstract: A closed paperboard carton for containing hot foods includes an automatically openable vent responsive to presence of hot vapor emanating from the food to accommodate escape of the vapor. The vent comprises a tab portion formed in a wall of the carton, defined by at least a pair of equal-length knife cuts and having a region of connection with the wall. Vapors emanating from the hot food condense, and are absorbed by the inwardly facing wall surfaces of the paperboard carton. Absorption of condensed vapors in the region of the tab causes the inwardly facing surface of the tab to swell so that it curls outwardly and forms a vent. Once the vapor has substantially escaped, the inwardly facing wall surfaces tend to dry out, accompanied by uncurling of the tab to its original, vent-closing position.