Abstract: This invention relates to a non-stringy adhesive hydrophilic gel comprising an aqueous mixture of a radiation crosslinkable water-soluble polymer, at least one humectant effective to extend the moisture retaining characteristics of the gel and which inhibits the ability of radiant energy to crosslink the water-soluble polymer, a pharmacologically active agent, and a crosslinking promoter effective to counteract the crosslinking inhibitory effect of humectant. The aqueous mixture is exposed to radiant energy effective to provide a non-stringy adhesive cohesive homogeneous hydrophilic gel that has an extended in-use lifetime. The gels can be formed into PATCHES for long term application of the pharmacologically active agent to a patient.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for the preparation of non-stringy hydrogels that are comprised of a homogeneous uniform mixture of water and at least one water-soluble high molecular weight polymer. Suitable mixtures may be derived from poly(ethylene oxide) and water or poly(vinyl pyrrolidone), a viscosity enhancing hydrophilic polymer and water, and further, may optionally contain an effective amount of a water-soluble electrolyte to provide conductive non-stringy materials. These polymeric mixtures are crosslinked by exposure to radiant energy to provide gel-like solids which are sufficiently tacky and adhesive to adhere to the subjects' skin and yet are substantially non-stringy and non-aggressive such that contact with such hydrogels imparts less discomfort to the user. In addition, the consumer utilizing the products of this invention would not experience the objectionable sticky, stringy sensation associated with existing adhesive gels.

Abstract: The present invention describes a protective drape and methods for using the drape to protect or shield an object against the harmful effects of accidental exposure to optical radiation, electrical discharge, heat, or an open flame. The present invention comprises a flexible solid sheet and a composite scrim and includes methods for predicting/determining the suitability of a chosen metallic component for use in the instant drape.

Abstract: The non-stringy hydrogels of this invention are comprised of a homogeneous uniform mixture of water and at least one water-soluble high molecular weight polymer. Suitable mixtures may be derived from poly(ethylene oxide) and water or poly(vinyl pyrrolidone), a viscosity-enhancing hydrophilic polymer and water, and further, may optionally contain an effective amount of a water-soluble electrolyte to provide conductive non-stringy materials. These polymeric mixtures which are crosslinked by exposure to radiant energy provide gel-like solids which are sufficiently tacky and adhesive to adhere to the subjects' skin and yet are substantially non-stringy and non-aggressive such that contact with such hydrogels imparts less discomfort to the user. In addition, the consumer utilizing the products of this invention would not experience the objectionable sticky, stringy sensation associated with existing conductive adhesive gels.

Abstract: The highly conductive hydrogels of this invention are comprised of a cohesive uniform mixture of poly(vinyl pyrrolidone), a viscosity-enhancing hydrophilic polymer, and an effective amount of an electrolyte. This polymeric mixture which is crosslinked by exposure to radiant energy provides a gel-like solid which is sufficiently tacky and adhesive to adhere to the subjects' skin and yet is substantially non-stringy and non-aggressive such that the use of such hydrogel imparts less discomfort to the user. In addition, the consumer utilizing the product of this invention would not experience the objectionable sticky, stringy sensation associated with existing conductive adhesive gels.