Abstract: This invention relates to rubber formulations which are useful as a structural material for utilization in manufacturing a wide variety of articles having a unique combination of rigidity, strength and flexural properties while maintaining excellent impact strength and durability. Additionally, articles made with the rubber formulations of this invention can essentially return to their original shape after being deformed by being impacted with a foreign object. A polymeric formulation which is useful as a structural material for manufacturing a wide variety of articles, said polymeric formulation being comprised of (1) about 45 weight percent to about 85 weight percent of a micronized rubber powder, (2) from about 15 weight percent to about 45 weight percent of a metallocene polyolefin elastomer, and (3) from about 1 weight percent to about 10 weight percent of a maleic anhydride grafted polyethylene.

Abstract: Road markers, highway delineators and other products are manufactured from a compounded mixture of polymers and pulverized or micronized rubber powder, using a multi-layer plastic extrusion process on industry standard plastic extrusion equipment. The compound retains shape and includes a mixture of natural and synthetic rubbers, carbon black, fillers and oils; a propylene-based elastomer; a mixture of light color aliphatic hydrocarbon resins, and linear low density polyethylene.

Abstract: A flexible hinge consisting of a single piece of rigid plastic material includes a thin flexible web portion between two inflexible end members, with flexible plastic material layers being bonded to opposing top and bottom faces of the web.

Abstract: A process for making a drag shield for a lawn mower includes forming from a rigid plastic material a relatively inflexible first end member adapted for secure attachment via a connecting element to an associated lawn mower deck, and a relatively inflexible second end member with a web portion extending therebetween for connecting the first and second end members. The web is formed from a rigid plastic material having a sufficiently thin and substantially uniform cross section for maintaining flexibility. The web and first and second end members are integral and provided in a single piece of rigid plastic material. The process further includes forming first and second layers of flexible plastic material on opposing sides of the web portion.