Abstract: A multi-component heat shield is provided. The shield includes at least one heat insulating component and at least one heat reflecting component having different coefficients of thermal expansion. The insulating and reflecting components are arranged with at least a portion of one of the insulating component's surfaces in registration with at least a portion of one of the reflecting component's surfaces. Movement of the components relative to one another is restricted at selected positions while the movement of the components is unrestrained between these positions. As heat is applied to the shield, the component with the greater coefficient of thermal expansion tends to expand at a greater rate than the component having the lower coefficient of thermal expansion. The stress which develops in the shield due to the restriction of the components at the selected positions is accompanied by changes in the spacing between the components.

Abstract: A selected powdery form of a graft copolymer containing hydrophilic chains provides a highly moisture-absorbent media which is suitable for use in absorbent bodies, particularly those used for absorbing body exudates such as catamenial devices, diapers, wound dressings, surgical sponges, incontinence pads and the like. The powdered form of said copolymers is useful alone or in combination with other absorbent materials in making up the absorbent bodies.