Abstract: The invention relates to methods for the synthesis of a thin-film composite membrane, comprising the following steps: a) providing an ultrafiltration porous support membrane, coated at the outer surface with a thin film, synthesized through interfacial polymerisation or interfacial initiation of polymerisation, b) contacting the membrane with a first solution comprising a first monomer, and allowing the solution to impregnate inside the thin film of the membrane, c) discarding the first solution comprising the first monomer, d) contacting the membrane with a second solution comprising a second monomer, and allowing the solution to impregnate inside the thin film of membrane, whereby the second monomer reacts with the first monomer and optionally with reactive groups of the thin film, e) discarding the second solution comprising the second monomer.

Abstract: A positive electrode plate-making process for a lead acid battery that produces an active material precursor comprising tetrabasic lead sulfate crystals with an average crystal width less than 20 ?m. The process includes mixing a lead and/or lead oxide powder and a paste additive with sulfuric acid to form a positive electrode paste composition, wherein the paste additive comprises ground tetrabasic lead sulfate crystals having an average particle size in the range of 1-20 ?m. The paste is then cured on a positive battery grid to form a positive electrode plate having the desired active material precursor containing tetrabasic lead sulfate crystals with an average crystal width less than 20 ?m. In an embodiment, curing is performed directly after applying the paste to the grid, with no intermediate steaming process.

Abstract: A support pillow for the leg and foot comprising a substantially solid foam member, the foam member being of uniform cross-section and having a first support arm rising to a first height, a second support arm rising to a second height, and a support channel located therebetween. The height of the first support arm is selected to prevent sideward or rotational movement of the foot.