Abstract: Composite panels and methods of use and manufacturing are described herein. The composite panels may comprise a foam composite and one or more layers of a facing material. The foam composite may have a density less than or equal to 20 pcf, and the layer(s) of facing material, e.g., inorganic facing material, may have a thickness of 1/16 inch to 1 inch covering at least the front surface of the foam composite.

Abstract: Methods are disclosed of forming a joint between a relatively hardened strip of material, such as a molded and cured conveyor belt strip, and an adjacent material that is in the process of curing. The curing material shrinks during the curing process, pulling away from the edge of the relatively hardened strip. The method includes moving the relatively hardened strip of material toward the curing, adjacent material strip to compensate for the shrinkage. An apparatus, for example, grips the relatively hardened strip of material and maintains a constant pressure at the interface between the relatively hardened strip of material and the curing material strip while the latter cures and shrinks.