Abstract: Improved hydrophilic crosslinked polyurethane foams are prepared by reacting (a) an isocyanate-capped polyoxyethylene prepolymer with (b) at least 20 moles of water per mole of NCO groups in the presence of (c) alumina hydrate, (d) a phosphorus fire-retardant additive and (e) an organic carbon compound which serves to react with phosphate anions at high temperatures (e.g., in the presence of a flame) and reinforces the char provided by combustion of the foam.

Abstract: A batch freezing apparatus has a fan or blower to continuously circulate air through the freezing chamber and back again through a recycle conduit. A cold gas such as from a liquid nitrogen supply tank is added to the recirculating air to lower the temperature in the system in a controlled manner to provide rapid freezing. The freezing chamber is capable of rotation so the material being frozen in cylinderical containers can be rotated against and freeze upon the inner surface of the container during the freezing process. The apparatus is especially suitable for freezing bull semen.

Abstract: A kit for converting an automobile engine from a conventional water pump driven by mechanical engine power to electrical drive which is separately controllable independently of engine operation. The kit includes a conventional air conditioning blower motor, and a bracket which permits motion of the electric motor on the bracket, whereby the motor, belts, pulleys, etc. can be changed without having to remove the bracket from the water pump on the engine.

Abstract: A method for measuring with a flexible dipstick the nonvisible level of liquid nitrogen in a container. The dipstick, made of a solid plastic strip having a flat cross-section and a dark color on which is printed a visible scale, is inserted into the liquid nitrogen-containing container for a short time. The dipstick is then rapidly waved in the air to permit frost to form on the cold portion that was immersed in the liquid nitrogen. The dipstick has a relatively high width-to-thickness ratio to provide waveability and flexibility for quickly forming the frost line and for permitting compact storage when not in use.

Abstract: An ammonium salt of an alkanoic acid having about 1-10 carbon atoms per molecule is prepared by reacting ammonia with an excess of the alkanoic acid in an aqueous system in a tubular reactor.An ammonium salt of an alkanoic acid having about 12-18 carbon atoms per molecule is prepared by reacting ammonia with the alkanoic acid in a tubular reactor. The reaction can be conducted in the presence or absence of water.

Abstract: This invention relates to an ethylenically unsaturated reactive thixotropic agent for use in radiation curable compositions, e.g., overprint varnishes, formed by reacting a hydroxyl-containing fatty acid ester with an ethylenically unsaturated isocyanate. The agent not only performs its thixotropic function in the uncured state but also forms part of the cured product on exposure to radiation, e.g., UV radiation due to its substantially similar reactivity.

Abstract: An aqueous solution comprising ammonium isobutyrate and isobutyric acid is useful for preventing the development of rot and mildew on seeds, silage, and other feedstuff. Said solution has a crystallization temperature between about -20.degree. F. and -40.degree. F.

Abstract: The invention disclosed relates to a new polyurethane composition having improved flame retardance and to a method for preparing same. The present composition includes a hydrophilic polyurethane having alumina hydrate and a phosphorus containing compound disposed therein.

Abstract: A viewing device with a series of image bearing films that are individually positioned to form a composite image. Each film is wound from one roller, past the composite image forming area and onto a take-up roller. In one embodiment a single knob for the entire device operates a drive-chain which is capable of separately engaging the pair of rollers for each film. In another embodiment a control knob and a one-way mechanism is provided for each roller pair to permit the film to be wound precisely back and forth without any binding of the film. The device can be used for facial identification.

Abstract: A heat transfer apparatus for cooling a hot process gas to a temperature close to its dew point without condensation. The hot gas passes through a first chamber while air to be heated passes in an adjacent second chamber. A series of fluid containing tubes extend back and forth between the two chambers. The fluid continuously flowing through the tubes extracts heat from the hot gas and transfers it to the air to be heated.