Abstract: The present invention relates to a composition for use in making a starch-based food or beverage container, the formulation allowing the container to be water resistant for a usable amount of time without the need for coatings or similar. An embodiment of the formulation comprising water, native and pregelatinized starch, an insolubilizing compound, proteins or natural polymeric compounds, fibers, a wax emulsion, and a fiber-sizing agent.

Abstract: Used and manufacturing scrap asphalt shingle material is processed into a relatively course material comprising pieces or flakes of a maximum predetermined size, preferably with a relatively low aggregate content. The flakes are finish processed into ground cover and/or erosion control products, with advantage taken of the larger size and low aggregate content. Processing of the flakes include (i) tumbling and simultaneously heating the flakes and a dry powder, (ii) embedding a surface treatment material into the heated flakes, and either (iii) drying the flakes for use as loose ground cover, or (iv) compressing the flakes into a mat product. The flakes may be produced by an initial process that includes (i) shredding the used and scrap shingle material into pieces of a predetermined maximum size, and (ii) separating the shredded material into (a) fine material and (b) course material.