Abstract: Described are very high molecular weight (e.g., over 2 million, such as 3-20 million g/mol) starch-based materials, and formulations including such, which can be spun in spunbond, melt blown, yarn, or similar processes. Even with such very high molecular weights, the formulations can be processed at commercial line speeds, with spinneret shear viscosities of 1000 sec?1, without onset of melt flow instability. The starch-based material can be blended with one or more thermoplastic materials having higher melt flow index value(s), which serve as a diluent and plasticizer, allowing the very viscous starch-based component to be spun under such conditions. The particular melt flow index characteristics of the thermoplastic diluent material can be selected based on what type of process is being used (e.g., spunbond, melt blown, yarn, etc.). The starch-based material may exhibit high shear sensitivity, strain hardening behavior, and/or very high critical shear stress (e.g., at least 125 kPa).

Abstract: Described are very high molecular weight (e.g., over 2 million, such as 3-20 million g/mol) starch-based materials, and formulations including such, which can be spun in spunbond, melt blown, yarn, or similar processes. Even with such very high molecular weights, the formulations can be processed at commercial line speeds, with spinneret shear viscosities of 1000 sec?1, without onset of melt flow instability. The starch-based material can be blended with one or more thermoplastic materials having higher melt flow index value(s), which serve as a diluent and plasticizer, allowing the very viscous starch-based component to be spun under such conditions. The particular melt flow index characteristics of the thermoplastic diluent material can be selected based on what type of process is being used (e.g., spunbond, melt blown, yarn, etc.). The starch-based material may exhibit high shear sensitivity, strain hardening behavior, and/or very high critical shear stress (e.g., at least 125 kPa).

Abstract: A lengthwise graphitization furnace for the conversion of a string of amorphous carbon bodies to graphite has an open semi-cylindrical shell of corrugated steel modules lined with cast refractory. The combination of the corrugated shell and cast refractory liner contributes to faster heat transfer by both convection and radiation, and to greater mechanical and thermal stability. The furnace is designed in modules allowing for easy replacement of worn components.

Abstract: In a water cooled electrode assembly for an electric arc steel furnace, a water trap manifold 14 integral with the head assembly at the upper end of said electrode.

Abstract: A water-cooled electrode for an electric arc furnace is fitted with a copper nipple 10, increased surface area through fluting or drilled or threaded passages for vastly improved cooling, joining the water-cooled and graphite portions of the electrode.

Abstract: A message communication system which provides instant messages and memoranda at a telephone user's desk. In an office complex, a message is transmitted over pre-existing office power lines to printers located in a user's office and is automatically posted with time of day, date and sequence number. When a telephone call cannot be completed, messages are entered at the terminal by a telephone operator or message attendant. A computer automatically formats message forms and stores the text on a magnetic diskette. Messages are transmitted to outlying printers and can be recalled for display or resending at any time.