Abstract: The invention relates to synthetic hybrid rock compositions, articles of manufacture and related processes employing mineral waste starting materials such as mine tailings, mine development rock, ash, slag, quarry fines, and slimes, to produce valuable articles of manufacture and products, which are characterized by superior physical and structural characteristics, including low porosity, low absorption, increased strength and durability, and retained plasticity. The resulting materials are compositionally and chemically distinct from conventional synthetic rock materials as demonstrated by scanning electron microprobe analysis, and are useful in a wide variety of applications, particularly with respect to commercial and residential construction.

Abstract: A child resistant valve assembly includes a valve with a movable valve stem to regulate the flow of hot water from a bottled water cooler system. An actuator cap is mounted to the movable valve stem, and a hood assembly covers the actuator cap. The hood assembly can slide in a direction generally perpendicular to the direction of movement of the movable valve stem. A spring, generally connected to the side of the actuator cap, lies between the actuator cap and the inside of the hood assembly. The hood assembly includes downwardly projecting tabs. The spring biases the hood assembly toward a position such that the tabs are located directly above the annular upper surface of the valve. Downward motion of the valve stem is thus prevented. When the hood assembly is first moved laterally to allow the stoppers to pass to a position not directly above the upper surface of the valve, the valve stem can be pushed down allowing hot water to be dispensed.