Abstract: The present invention is directed toward a self-decontaminating surface coating, which when cured has a partially hydrophobic surface. The coating comprises a polymeric coating resin which, when cured, is hydrophilic. The coating also comprises a biocide, a germinating agent, and a hydrophobic micro/nano particulate material. The coating is suitable for application to ceramics, metals, and polymer substrates. Articles coated with the coating of the present invention are resistant to spores.

Abstract: Processes and systems are provided whereby continuous polymeric microspheres are made by nebulizing a solventless initiated monomeric liquid (that is a liquid solution comprising a monomer and a polymerization initiator for the monomer) to form an aerosol of polymerization-initiated monomeric liquid droplets within a gas-filled reaction zone. The nebulized droplets of the monomeric liquid are allowed to fall under gravitational force through the reaction zone and to polymerize therewithin. The thus polymerized particles may thereafter be collected and removed from the reaction zone for further processing and/or use as may be desired.

Abstract: Synthetic textile articles (e.g., filaments, fibers, yarns. fabrics and the like) and processes of making the same are provided which include flame-retardant SAP particles. The SAP particles are most preferably hydrated with an aqueous flame-retardant solution. In this regard, the flame-retardant solution may consist essentially of water alone or a water solution containing one or more water soluble inorganic flame retardants. When SAP particles are hydrated with an aqueous inorganic flame retardant solution, the SAP particles may thereafter be dried to remove substantially the water component. In such a manner, the inorganic flame retardant will remain as a dried residue physically entrained within the SAP particles. As such, the SAP particles serve as a physical matrix in which the inorganic flame retardant is homogenously dispersed. The SAP particles may then be chemically or physically affixed to the textile article in an amount sufficient to render the article flame-retardant.

Abstract: Flame-retardant synthetic resin articles and methods of making the same are provided whereby flame-retardant SAP particles are incorporated into synthetic resins, especially curable thermosettable resins. The SAP particles are most preferably hydrated with an aqueous flame-retardant solution. In this regard, the flame-retardant solution may consist essentially of water alone or a water solution containing one or more water soluble inorganic flame retardants. When SAP particles are hydrated with an aqueous inorganic flame retardant solution, the SAP particles may thereafter be dried to remove substantially the water component. In such a manner, the inorganic flame retardant will remain as a dried residue physically entrained within the SAP particles. As such, the SAP particles serve as a physical matrix in which the inorganic flame retardant is homogenously dispersed.

Abstract: The present invention is directed toward a tunable dielectric device comprising: a substrate and an endohedral fullerene encapsulating trimetallic nitride template compound disposed on the substrate. The endohedral fullerene encapsulating trimetallic nitride template compound has a dipole moment that is oriented when a voltage of less than about 5 volts is applied thereto causing a change in the orientation of the dipole moment of the compound. The physical dimension of the compound is essentially unchanged.