Abstract: A process for the production of an open cell polyurethane foam comprises the mixing of the following components at ambient temperatures in a mixing zone: a diisocyanate having a functionality of at least about 2.0, at least one hydrogen donor, at least one surfactant which is effective in forming an open cell polyurethane foam, at least one catalyst, and a blowing agent comprising a gas having a boiling point below approximately -100.degree. F. at atmospheric pressure which preferably comprises carbon dioxide. In addition, the mixture may also optionally contain water. The mixture is subjected to a pressure in said mixing zone which is sufficient to maintain the blowing agent in the liquid state at ambient temperatures. After mixing, the mixture is ejected from the mixing zone to atmospheric pressure, thereby completely and instantaneously vaporizing the blowing agent to provide expansion of the mixture. The resultant foam is then cured at ambient temperatures.

Abstract: Hydrocarbon oils having a high aromaticity (at least 85%, preferably 95-100%) and a boiling point of about 342.degree. to about 510.degree. C. (about 650.degree. to about 950.degree. F.) are used as partial or total replacements for the foam stabilizers used in the preparation of both rigid, closed cell polyurethane foams and flexible, open cell polyurethane foams. These oils are useful as a replacement for both silicon surfactants and organic (i.e., non-silicon) surfactants. For certain blowing agents (e.g., trichlorofluoromethane and methylene chloride), hydrocarbon oils having a boiling point range of about 399.degree. to 454.degree. C. (about 750.degree. to about 850.degree. F.) are preferred. Highly aromatic oils having a boiling point of about 281.degree. to about 510.degree. C. are useful for reducing the vapor pressure of toluene diisocyanate and for preventing the low temperature crystallization of toluene diisocyanate or diphenylmethane diisocyanate.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of utilizing polyurethane foam for insulation purposes in existing walls and other areas without expanding the existing structure. Conventional polyurethane foam post-expands, causing pressures as high as 6 p.s.i., which results in swelling and expanding of existing wall structures. The process of the present invention places the polyurethane foam into its final position in a totally pre-expanded form, making it possible to insulate homes, office buildings, and any other existing structure with foam having a density as low as 0.5 lb. per cu. ft. with no distortion of even the weakest type of structure.

Abstract: Equipment and formulations for the filling of ordinary pneumatic tires with a polyurethane foam, whereby all types, sizes and pressure ratings may be accurately filled, matching the ride and handling characteristics and load-bearing properties of air-filled tires and providing longer wear for the tires while at the same time providing puncture and blow-out proof tires.

Abstract: Apparatus and method of filling voids in a ground stratum in the vicinity of a well bore are enclosed. The apparatus is a self-contained device and, for example, it can be placed in the well bore in the vicinity of the voids to be plugged by dropping the apparatus down a drill string. Once in place it will automatically respond to the well pressure to provide the required plugging. To accomplish this the apparatus includes precursors of polymers such as precursors of polyurethanes, epoxy type polymers, polyesters or other polymers which are released from the apparatus and flow into the voids.

Abstract: A buoyancy system is disclosed for use in controlling the descent and ascent of an object, such as a pipe line being laid offshore. The system includes a plurality of inflatable, collapsible, submersible buoys which may be remotely controlled by air or other inflating mediums. As each of the buoys, and thus the load connected thereto, is lowered or raised in a body of water the pressure inside the buoys is controlled by a valve which is responsive to the hydro-static pressure in the body of water or the volume of the buoy to maintain a relatively small pressure differential between the pressure inside the buoy and the hydro-static pressure at all depths of submersion whether the amount of buoyancy provided by the buoys is to be positive, negative, or neutral. Also disclosed are a plurality of systems utilizing the submersible buoys of this invention for laying pipe line and other objects on or near the sea bottom.

Abstract: A new curing agent for the production of polyurethane elastomers, particularly for use at processing temperatures of from about ambient up to about 250.degree. F is disclosed. The new curing agent is the polyfunctional (including difunctional) reaction product of methylene bis (methyl anthranilate) and from about 0.025 to about 0.1 equivalents of an isocyanate-terminated prepolymer containing from 2 to about 10 percent excess isocyanate groups. Other components including a saturated monocarboxylic acid of from 2 to about 31 carbon atoms, another diamine compound (e.g., diamino diphenyl sulfone) or a polyfunctional hydroxyl group-containing compound may be incorporated into the curing agent.

Abstract: A warning system and methods for vehicles traveling in tandem. A signal beam of energy is emitted from a leading vehicle and is directed toward the roadway to indicate a safe stopping distance. The signal beam is automatically displaced in response to changes in vehicle speed to indicate a new safe stopping distance. The signal emitter may comprise a lamp for emitting a visible light beam. A signal detector may be provided on the trailing vehicle to detect the energy beam from the leading vehicle.