Abstract: Compositions with sodium carboxymethylcellulose and hydroxyethyl cellulose are provided for environmentally safe disposal of water-based latex and acrylic formulations. Improved methods for environmentally safe disposal of water-based latex and acrylic formulations are provided as well.

Abstract: An improved method and apparatus for imparting a smooth surface to gypsum fiber panels. The method involves imparting energy to the surface of a slurry as the slurry is dewatered just prior to rehydration. The apparatus used to impart the energy is a water spray including a source of pressurized water such as a pump, a distribution manifold and a plurality of nozzles to direct the water spray at the surface of the slurry. In operation, the water spray is directed against the surface of the slurry. The flow disrupts the slurry to a fraction of its total depth, thus dispersing clumps or flocs of commingled crystals and fibers in the depth that would give the surface of the finished panel a rough surface if they were allowed to remain.