Abstract: A thermoset material containing ?-hydroxyesters wherein said thermoset material is subject to a mechano-chemical process to regenerate an epoxide and a carboxylic acid functionality. A curative for epoxidized plant-based oils and epoxidized natural rubber is created from the reaction between a naturally occurring polyfunctional acid and an epoxidized plant-based oil is disclosed. The curative may be used to produce porosity-free castable resins and vulcanize rubber formulations based on epoxidized natural rubber. Materials made from disclosed materials may be advantageously used as leather substitutes.

Abstract: A vehicle traction enhancement system for use in a vehicle storage compartment such as a trunk or truck bed, to add weight or ballast above the driven wheels to improve traction, especially during times of inclement weather. The system includes an elongated carrier and retention devices or compartments for the weights.