Abstract: Durable molded construction parts are disclosed, which are prepared from hydration products of a settable construction material comprising a hydraulically hardening mixture and at least one reinforcing material subject to degradation under alkaline conditions. The construction material has an alkali buffer capacity which does not exceed 0.005 acid equivalents per 100 grams of construction material, as measured in an aqueous suspension of the construction material 24 hours after suspension formation.

Abstract: A composition for forming a waterproof, high strength, hard material having good insulation properties, comprising a mixture of crushed pumice, type S mortar and glass fibers, which forms the hard material upon the addition of water and after allowing the mixture to cure. The material has superior insulation properties to conventional compositions formed using portland cement instead of type S mortar.

Abstract: A ceramic fiber containing refractory moldable composition suitable for use with molten aluminum alloys, the composition comprised of 10-18 wt. % ceramic fiber, 33-45 wt. % colloidal silica, 30-42 wt. % total content of liquid carrier, 0.2-2.5 wt. % organic polymer and 1-15 wt. % barium sulfate. The composition has a high level of resistance to attack or penetration by molten aluminum.

Abstract: Fire retardant coatings for metal structural members are obtained by spraying onto the structural members settable plaster compositions which are air-containing pumpable aqueous slurries of plaster, clay prill aggregate, cellulose and glass fiber reinforcement and foaming agent. The specially prepared clay prill aggregate has a low aspect ratio of near unity and is an acceptable substitute for the exfoliated vermiculite aggregate of prior coating compositions.

Abstract: A compact reinforced composite comprising a matrix (A) with a reinforcement (B) embedded therein, the matrix (A) being a composite structure comprising a base matrix (C) which is reinforced with reinforcing bodies (D) in the form of fibers. The transverse dimension of (B) being at least 5 times as large as the transverse dimension of (D).

Abstract: A fireproof panel for closing structural openings within building structures such as those between rooms, floors, ceilings, and the like through which essential-service hardware such as ducts, pipes, electrical conduit, and the like penetrates, or for providing support for such hardware. The panel comprises a solid matrix of refractory material having reinforcement material embedded therein. Preferably, the reinforcement material is embedded immediately beneath essentially all of at least one of the panel's front and back exterior surfaces. A preferred reinforcement material is a fiberglass material, preferably embedded immediately beneath both the front and back exterior surfaces of the panel. The reinforcement material inhibits fracture of the panel to thereby provide a greater workability in panel installation. The panel can be flat or shaped in accord with its intended function, and openings therethrough to accommodate penetrating hardware can be readily made.