Abstract: A composition for the prevention of spontaneous combustion of coal is described which is comprised of at least about 2 percent of polyethylene oxide and the balance water. Also described is a method for reducing the spontaneous combustion tendency of coal by contacting coal with the above composition and then drying the coal.

Abstract: A fracture or crack arrestor assembly is described for insertion into a pipeline formed of a plurality of sections to prevent the propagation of fractures in the pipeline. The crack arrestor assembly includes a body portion which is generally cylindrical in shape and which has opposite ends in open communication with the pipeline. The body portion includes wall portions which are sloped inwardly from each end thereof to an intermediate wall portion which forms a reduced diameter at the outer surface of the body portion. A cylindrical reinforcing member embraces the reduced diameter portion of the body portion. A cylindrical cover or shield is secured to and embraces the body portion and has approximately the same outside diameter as the pipeline to facilitate wrapping or coating of the pipeline. The cavity between the interior of the cover and the body portion may be filled with a suitable filler material.