Abstract: Graft polymerization is fulfilled on a functionalized substrate. The functionalized substrate is prepared from a disulfide bond-containing feedstock and has been prepared for polymerization through the introduction of one or more polyfunctional monomers containing a disulfide bond breaking material functional group.

Abstract: Bio-alloy compositions, having improved mechanical, physical and thermal comprising at least one petroleum-based polymer and at least one biopolymer. Furthermore, the present disclosure relates generally to polymer compositions comprising a bio-alloy having improved characteristics, the bio-alloy including at least one hybrid biopolymer having same molecular structure as that of a petroleum based polymer and at least one biopolymer.

Abstract: Graft polymerization is fullfiled on a functionalized substrate. The functionalized substrate is prepared from a disulfide bond-containing feedstock and has been prepared for polymerization through the introduction of one or more polyfunctional monomers containing a disulfide bond breaking material functional group.

Abstract: The embodiments provided herein are directed to methods and systems for generating a customized functionalized substrate. In particular, the embodiments provided herein generate a customized functionalized substrate that can be used for a variety of applications and a variety of chemical and other reactions, processes and methodologies, by modifying a disulfide bond-containing feedstock through the introduction of a disulfide bond breaking material.

Abstract: The embodiments provided herein are directed to methods and systems for generating a customized functionalized substrate. In particular, the embodiments provided herein generate a customized functionalized substrate that can be used for a variety of applications and a variety of chemical and other reactions, processes and methodologies, by modifying a disulfide bond-containing feedstock through the introduction of a disulfide bond breaking material.

Abstract: Graft polymerization is fullfiled on a functionalized substrate. The functionalized substrate is prepared from a disulfide bond-containing feedstock and has been prepared for polymerization through the introduction of one or more polyfunctional monomers containing a disulfide bond breaking material functional group.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclosed for substantially improving the energy efficiency of swimming pools having in-floor cleaning systems. Comprehensive data is provided demonstrating the improvement in cleaning capacity realized in a typical prior art pool before and after conversion to the present invention. Methods are disclosed for the reallocation of all or a substantial part of the increase in cleaning capacity toward a proportionate reduction in energy consumption by reducing the run time or operating speed of the pool pump motor while maintaining the same or a higher level of cleaning capacity achieved by the prior art.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclosed for substantially improving the energy efficiency of swimming pools having in-floor cleaning systems. Comprehensive data is provided demonstrating the improvement in cleaning capacity realized in a typical prior art pool before and after conversion to the present invention. Methods are disclosed for the reallocation of all or a substantial part of the increase in cleaning capacity toward a proportionate reduction in energy consumption by reducing the run time or operating speed of the pool pump motor while maintaining the same or a higher level of cleaning capacity achieved by the prior art.

Abstract: An improved multi-port water distribution valve is disclosed together with the improved cam mechanism that significantly enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of the valve when used to distribute water to multiple sets of pop-up cleaning heads incorporated into the in-floor cleaning system of a swimming pool. Two forms of prior art distribution valves are disclosed as is the improved cam mechanism that, when used to replace the prior art cam in these devices, significantly improves their performance. Comparative data is provided demonstrating the results achieved with two different prior art valves operated with and without the improved cam. Embodiments of the invention suitable for use in existing six-port and five-port distribution valves are disclosed.

Abstract: A computer-implemented method and apparatus are disclosed for use in the capture, compilation, production and delivery of integrated educational and/or training programs in digital form. A wide range of alternative structures and acts are described to illustrate the adaptability of the invention, including a comprehensive disclosure of the prototype system used to create and deliver a fully accredited, four-unit course on the law of Commercial Torts.

Abstract: An improved transparent optical member, preferably a glass sheet, comprising a nanostructure layer with an enhanced geometry and a balance of chemical (hydrophobic and hydrophilic) characteristics can be formed on a surface. The geometry and chemistry of the layer combine to obtain improved washability. The layer can be manufactured by forming a layer comprising a silicon compound coating, including a silicon oxide coating, a silicon carbide coating, a silicon nitride coating or mixtures thereof. The coating can have a having a thickness of about 1 to 100 nm (10−9 meter). The layer has a preferred roughens from a random or ordered array of structure. The layer can be doped with di tri or polyvalent metal compounds. Such coatings have been found to have increased washability and such coatings have been found to preferentially bind to aqueous solutions applied to the glass.

Abstract: A barrier film composition can comprise a thermoplastic web comprising a thermoplastic polymer and a dispersed cyclodextrin composition having substituents that compatibilize the cyclodextrin in the film. The thermoplastic/cyclodextrin film obtains substantial barrier properties from the interaction between the substituted cyclodextrin in the film material with a permeant. The substituents on the cyclodextrin molecule causes the cyclodextrin to be dispersible and stable in the film material resulting in an extrudable thermoplastic. Such materials can be used as a single layer film material, a multilayer film material which can be coated or uncoated and can be used in structural materials wherein the thermoplastic is of substantial thickness resulting in structural stiffness.

Abstract: A barrier film composition can comprise a thermoplastic web comprising a thermoplastic polymer and a dispersed cyclodextrin composition having substituents that compatibilize the cyclodextrin in the film. The thermoplastic/cyclodextrin film obtains substantial barrier properties from the interaction between the substituted cyclodextrin in the film material with a permeant. The substituents on the cyclodextrin molecule causes the cyclodextrin to be dispersible and stable in the film material resulting in an extrudable thermoplastic. Such materials can be used as a single layer film material, a multilayer film material which can be coated or uncoated and can be used in structural materials wherein the thermoplastic is of substantial thickness resulting in structural stiffness.

Abstract: A barrier film composition can comprise a thermoplastic web comprising a thermoplastic polymer and a dispersed cyclodextrin composition having substituents that compatibilize the cyclodextrin in the film. The thermoplastic/cyclodextrin film obtains substantial barrier properties from the interaction between the substituted cyclodextrin in the film material with a permeant. The substituents on the cyclodextrin molecule causes the cyclodextrin to be dispersible and stable in the film material resulting in an extrudable thermoplastic. Such materials can be used as a single layer film material, a multilayer film material which can be coated or uncoated and can be used in structural materials wherein the thermoplastic is of substantial thickness resulting in structural stiffness.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing ingots for use in making objects having heat, thermal shock, corrosion and wear resistance by formulating a composition of about 17-80% TiB.sub.2 powder, about 0.0 to 4.0% Y.sub.2 O.sub.3 powder, and the balance of NiAl powder, the powders being thoroughly admixed, and placing the admixture into a mold in which it is subjected to a pressure of about 7000 psi and a temperature of about 1400.degree. C. for 20 to 140 minutes in an inert atmosphere, after which the mold is cooled and the ingot is removed and ready for use in manufacturing an object. In some applications the use of a ceramic filler material mixed with the powder is employed to improve the physical characteristics of the finished ingot.