Abstract: Method to increase strength of a rolled rim container having a sidewall defining a perimeter, a base at a first end of the sidewall, and an opening defined at a second end of the sidewall opposite the base. A portion of the sidewall at the second end is provided with or can be rolled to form a rolled rim. The rolled rim defines an interface along the perimeter between an outer surface of the sidewall and an exposed surface of the rolled rim. A bead material is applied along the interface between the exposed surface of the rolled rim and the outer surface of the sidewall. The bead material is cured to form a bead between the exposed surface of the rolled rim and the outer surface of the sidewall. Rolled rim containers and systems for forming the same are also disclosed.

Abstract: Disposable lid comprises a thermoformed sheet in the shape of a lid for a hot beverage container. The sheet comprises a polymer composite of a polyolefin and at least one mineral filler. The sheet has a thickness less than about 0.035 inches and a heat deflection temperature at least comparable to that of high impact polystyrene.

Abstract: A multilayer polymer composite structure that includes a first layer including a polymer and at least one mineral filler and a second layer including a polymer. A third layer is positioned between the first layer and the second layer, wherein the third layer includes a mixture of material from at least the first and second layers. Preferably, the third layer is formed by recycling and mixing excess material from the multilayer polymer structure. The second layer can further include a colorant. The multilayer polymer structure can also include a fourth and/or fifth layer comprising a high clarity polymer and/or a high gloss polymer that provides a glossy surface or a sealant polymer that provides surface capable of being sealed. In a preferred embodiment, the multilayer polymer structure is thermoformed into a multilayer polymer article such as a container. Preferably, the container is a drinking cup.

Abstract: A continuous chain of connected absorbent pouches comprises a first panel, a second panel, and a super-absorbent material. Each of the absorbent pouches is adapted to absorb liquids. The first panel and the second panel are attached to each other along their respective general peripheries so as to form a space therebetween. The space comprises super-absorbent material. At least one of the first and second panels has at least one hole formed therein. The hole is of sufficient size to be permeable to liquid. Each of the pouches is adapted to absorb at least about 20 times its own weight of a 0.9 wt. % saline solution in an unloaded condition.

Abstract: A continuous chain of connected absorbent pouches comprises a first panel, a second panel, and a super-absorbent material. Each of the absorbent pouches is adapted to absorb liquids. The first panel and the second panel are attached to each other along their respective general peripheries so as to form a space therebetween. The space comprises super-absorbent material. At least one of the first and second panels has at least one hole formed therein. The hole is of sufficient size to be permeable to liquid. Each of the pouches is adapted to absorb at least about 20 times its own weight of a 0.9 wt. % saline solution in an unloaded condition.

Abstract: A process for preparing an injection-molded cutlery The process includes providing a mixture of a filler and a polymer The mixture comprises from about 30 to about 70 wt. % filler and from about 30 to about 70 wt.

Abstract: A continuous chain of connected absorbent pouches comprises a first panel, a second panel, and a super-absorbent material. Each of the absorbent pouches is adapted to absorb liquids. The first panel and the second panel are attached to each other along their respective general peripheries so as to form a space therebetween. The space comprises super-absorbent material. At least one of the first and second panels has at least one hole formed therein. The hole is of sufficient size to be permeable to liquid. Each of the pouches is adapted to absorb at least about 20 times its own weight of a 0.9 wt. % saline solution in an unloaded condition.

Abstract: A process for preparing an injection-molded cutlery. The process includes providing a mixture of a filler and a polymer. The mixture comprises from about 30 to about 70 wt. % filler and from about 30 to about 70 wt. % polymer. The mixture is heated to its melting temperature and then injected into a mold. The mixture is cooled so as to form the cutlery. The cutlery is ejected from the mold.

Abstract: A novel biaxially oriented polystrene sheet product and process for making the sheet. Oriented polystyrene sheet is prepared by melt extruding a polymer, such as styrenic resin having average molecular weight of at least 270,000, blended with a processing agent, such as mineral oil, to lower glass transition temperature of the resin by at least 10.degree. C. The cooled extruded sheet is biaxially oriented under reduced orientation load conditions and orientation temperature. In a preferred embodiment styrenic resin is blended with about 3-10 wt % paraffinic hydrocarbon oil, such as mineral white oil or the like, in the substantial absence of other additives to provide a clear, oriented polystyrene sheet product having high modulus and low haze.

Abstract: A novel biaxially oriented polystrene sheet product and process for making the sheet. Oriented polystyrene sheet is prepared by melt extruding a polymer, such as styrenic resin having average molecular weight of at least 270,000, blended with a processing agent, such as mineral oil, to lower glass transition temperature of the resin by at least 10.degree. C. The cooled extruded sheet is biaxially oriented under reduced orientation load conditions and orientation temperature. In a preferred embodiment styrenic resin is blended with about 3-10 wt % paraffinic hydrocarbon oil, such as mineral white oil or the like, in the substantial absence of other additives to provide a clear, oriented polystyrene sheet product having high modulus and low haze.