Abstract: Thin multilayer signature control films having a large differential between the indices of refraction of adjoining layers are characterized by the use as the low index layer or layers of a material having a high coefficient of extinction and a very low index of refraction. The enhanced differential between the indices of refraction results in signature control materials which, in one embodiment, may be comprised of just a substrate and a coating and, in another embodiment, may be a supported or unsupported multilayer film comprised of as few as three layers that have performance characteristics equal to or exceeding prior art films comprised of 15-30 layers. Both continuous films and pigmented liquid coating compositions for signature control are provided. Improved pigments for liquid coating compositions are comprised of appropriately coated microspheres and microballoons.

Abstract: Long-sleeved wearing apparel are provided with self-contained mittens or gloves, each comprising an open-top hand and finger pocket secured in the interior of the sleeve adjacent to the lower end of the sleeve, an opening in the sleeve adjacent to the upper end of the hand and finger pocket, and a thumb pocket secured to the sleeve at the opening and extendable and retractable through the opening to form with the hand and finger pocket a self-contained mitten or glove.

Abstract: Optical coating compositions containing thin film particulates or pigments that are capable of imparting to the coating preselected optical characteristics or properties, such as selective reflectance, transmission and absorptance of light energy, are comprised of film forming binder and improved high volume pigment particles dispersed in the binder. Each pigment particle is a high volume flake comprised of an inorganic or polymer core having two sides and a thin film optical structure deposited onto each of the two sides of the core. The core occupies a large volume of the coating composition and dramatically reduces the number of flakes and the amount of thin film structures required to produce a coating of given thickness and desired optical properties. The core may also be fabricated to have diffuse and irregular side surfaces in order to render the applied coating visually diffuse and nonspecular. Methods of making the pigment particles are disclosed.

Abstract: Fresh produce is preserved by coating the exterior surface of the produce with a coating composition comprising an aqueous solution of from about 0.5 to about 4 percent by weight of a cellulose derivative, preferably sodium carboxymethylcellulose, from about 0.05 to about 0.5 percent by weight of konjac, and from about 0.03 to about 0.1 percent by weight of surfactant, preferably dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate. Optional constituents include antimicrobials, plasticizers and antifoaming agents. The coating composition is effective to control respiratory exchange, i.e., the passage of gases, particularly oxygen, ethylene, carbon dioxide and water vapor, into and out of the produce, thereby to control maturation and ripening of the produce.

Abstract: Fresh produce is preserved by coating the exterior surface of the produce with a coating composition comprising an aqueous solution of from about 1 to about 20 percent by weight of substantially hydrolyzed cold water insoluble polyvinyl alcohol, about 0.1 to about 10 percent by weight of low molecular weight cold water soluble starch, and about 0.03 to about 5 percent by weight of surfactant. Optional constituents include antimicrobials and plasticizers. The coating composition is effective to control respiratory exchange, i.e., the passage of gases, particularly oxygen, ethylene and carbon dioxide, into and out of the produce, thereby to control maturation and ripening of the produce.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for generating a high plume or "rooster tail" of water behind a water jet propelled marine craft, such as a jet ski, is characterized by the insertion of a water diverting member into the upper regions of the jet of water discharging from the jet propulsion system and diverting a portion of the water from the jet upwardly and outwardly away from the jet to form a tall plume of water above and behind the jet. In its preferred embodiment, the apparatus comprises a lever pivotally mounted on the upper side of the discharge nozzle of the propulsion system and selectively movable at its upstream end through a slot in the nozzle into the interior of the nozzle to divert a portion of the water from the jet stream upwardly and rearwardly away from the nozzle.

Abstract: An improved device for mixing and/or dispersing fluids, and useful as a component of fuel injectors, carburetors, oil burners, de-superheaters and gas coolers, and in the production of foams and emulsions.