Abstract: In an aspect, a composition comprises an alkali-swellable copolymer that is derived from a mixture comprising 15 to 50 wt % of an ethylenically unsaturated carboxylic acid; 30 to 70 wt % of an ethylenically unsaturated C1-2 alkyl carboxylate ester; and 15 to 40 wt of a nonionic ethylenically unsaturated surfactant monomer of the Formula (A); and less than or equal to 0.15 wt of a multifunctional monomer contains greater than 1 vinyl group. The composition has a pH of greater than or equal to 6. The composition can optionally comprise a surfactant.

Abstract: A water distiller includes an inner vessel in which source water is heated, an outer dome or housing on the inner surface of which the vapor from the inner vessel is condensed and a reservoir for receiving the condensate. The inner vessel includes a closure which directs vapor radially of the inner vessel to the dome or housing and which may include a vapor filtration element. A variety of domes or housings are shown including those of double wall construction with ports or vents to direct heat transfer fluid or air between the walls thereof, and those having lower portions which downwardly converge to direct the condensate to a central mouth of a reservoir.