Abstract: A method of chemical vapor infiltration and deposition includes stacking a number of porous structures in a stack in a furnace. The stack has a center opening region extending through the porous structures and an outer region extending along the porous structures. A first portion of a reactant gas is introduced to the center opening region. A second portion of the reactant gas is introduced to the outer region. The first portion and the second portion are controlled proportions thereby introducing predetermined portions of the reactant gas to both the center opening region and the outer region. The change in weight of the entire furnace, including contents, is measured during the chemical vapor infiltration and deposition process. The rate of weight change is monitored.

Abstract: An assay device processing instrument comprises a plurality of processing modules. A transport system transports an assay device to each processing module, the transport system being adapted to transfer the assay device from the transport system to the module to enable the transport system to transport another assay device while the first is processed by the processing module. A control system controls operation of the transport system such that each assay device is transferred between the modules in a predetermined sequence, and such that a number of assay devices can be processed in different modules simultaneously.

Abstract: A method for densifying porous structures inside a furnace using non-pressure gradient CVI/CVD in a single cycle is described. A hardware assembly for use in the single cycle non-pressure gradient CVI/CVD process is provided as well are process and process conditions are described.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for densifying porous structures inside a furnace using pressure gradient CVI/CVD. The apparatus includes a stack of porous structures where each porous structure has an aperture therethrough. The apparatus also includes at least one ring-like spacer disposed within the stack of porous structures between neighboring porous structures. The ring-like spacer encircles the apertures of the neighboring porous structures. The stack of porous structures and the at least one ring-like spacer define an enclosed cavity including each porous structure aperture. A channel provides fluid communication between the enclosed cavity and an outer volume defined by the interior surface of the furnace.

Abstract: Breathable non-wettable non-woven materials include a mass of melt-blown, non-woven fibers formed of a terpolymer of tetrafluroethylene, hexafluoropropylene and vinylidene fluoride monomers. Most preferably, the materials of the present invention are in the form of fabric structures which can be processed to form a variety of products for numerous end use applications, such as for garments, bandages, barrier vents, filter media and the like. In especially preferred form, the melt-blown non-woven fibers are comprised of a THV terpolymer formed of between about 30 to about 70 wt. % of teirafluoroethylene monomer, between about 10 to about 20 wt. % of hexafluoropropylene monomer, and between about 20 to about 65 wt. % vinylidene fluoride monomer.

Abstract: A packaged cosmetic stick product comprising a (a) cosmetic composition containing, in a cosmetically acceptable carrier, at least one structuring agent in an amount sufficient to form a solid stick; said stick contained in a (b) a propel/repel container comprised of a (i) base for holding the cosmetic stick product wherein the cosmetic stick is partially extended therefrom, (ii) an A-shell affixed to the base and having length sufficient to completely house the cosmetic stick when it is in the fully retracted position, (iii) a transparent A-shell cover having a length that is less than about 80% of the total length of the A-shell, (iv) a shrink wrap holding the transparent A-shell cover to the A-shell, and (v) a cap for covering the A-shell and the transparent A-shell cover.

Abstract: A container for storing makeup is disclosed. The container includes a cover having a first interface, the first interface having a first periphery. The container also includes a base for holding a cosmetic substance, the base having a second interface, the second interface having a second periphery corresponding to the first periphery. The container also includes a generally hermetic seal providing a channel associated with the first interface and a peripheral rim associated with the second interface. The container includes a discharge for reducing the air pressure integral with the first or the second interface. The first interface and the second interface provide a substantially hermetic seal when the cover is closed with respect to the base.

Abstract: A new type of high temperature thermal disconnect has been developed to protect electrical and mechanical equipment from damage caused by operation at extreme temperatures. These thermal disconnects allow continuous operation at temperatures ranging from 250.degree. C. to 450.degree. C., while rapidly terminating operation at temperatures 50.degree. C. to 150.degree. C. higher than the continuous operating temperature.

Abstract: A shaving unit includes a composite that has a surface for engaging the user's skin. The composite contains a water-insoluble polymer, a shaving aid in the form of a lubricant, and a water-swellable polymer which, upon contact with water, enhances the release of the lubricant from the composite onto the skin.