Abstract: A combined sensing and barrier element is provided. This sensing element is most useful as a flexible diaphragm which is also described herein. The flexible diaphragm has a resilient elastomeric body and a sensing element having at least one conductive component and at least two nonconductive components such that the conductive component is positioned between the nonconductive components. A change in electrical resistance is recorded by an electrical monitoring device that is electrically connected to the conductive component. By observing changes in the resistance that deviate from a predetermined norm, significant wear of a diaphragm can be determined prior to its failure.

Abstract: This invention provides a densified previously expanded PTFE article having remnants of a fibril and node structure and a process for producing the article. A PTFE shape is compressed through the application of heat and pressure while the shape itself is under a vacuum, thus forming the densified ePTFE article. The densified PTFE article exhibits increased flexural strength.A diaphragm containing the densified ePTFE article as one layer is also disclosed.

Abstract: A flexible pump diaphragm for pumping fluids is described in which the diaphragm has a number of ribs or troughs located radially across its circumferential flexure portion.