Abstract: Pressure assisted sintering achieves full densification in short sinter times with low grain growth. This result is enabled by a stage of sintering to a condition of closed porosity (14) followed by a pressure assisted sinter (PAS) stage (16) carried out at a temperature close to, but just below, sinter temperature. Advantageously a small melt formation is induced by a brief temperature spiking (18) during the PAS stage to enable collapse of voids.

Abstract: Method of and apparatus for use in controlling the temperature of a drum of a steam heated drum dryer utilizes air and steam, the air under a pressure control and the steam under a temperature control. The temperature control is responsive to the temperature of the fluids discharged from the drum which are under a control such that the sensed temperature is always substantially the same as that of the interior of the drum and the air and steam is utilized in a manner minimizing fluctuations in the drum temperature as the controls are operated in response to sensed temperature.

Abstract: This invention relates to a disposable wet towel characterized by an ability to evolve heat immediately prior to use or in use such that the temperature of the towel is increased by as much as 25.degree. or more above ambient when applied to the skin. The evolution of heat is due to the admixture of a reducing agent and an oxidizing agent reactive with said reducing agent which agents are kept separated prior to use of the towel and mixed when the towel is put into use. The agents and products resulting from the reaction thereof are not irritating to the skin. The invention also provides pouches for storing said towels prior to use which pouches contain means for maintaining said oxidizing agent and reducing agent isolated from each other.