Abstract: Novel compositions of matter comprise certain derivatives of 9,9-dialkyl fluorene diamine (AFDA). The resultant compositions, whether compositions of matter or monomers that are subsequently incorporated into a polymer, are unique and useful in a variety of applications. Useful applications of AFDA-based material include heavy ion radiation shielding components and components of optical and electronic devices.

Abstract: A process for depositing nanometer-sized metal particles onto a substrate in the absence of aqueous solvents, organic solvents, and reducing agents, and without any required pretreatment of the substrate, includes preparing an admixture of a metal compound and a substrate by dry mixing a chosen amount of the metal compound with a chosen amount of the substrate; and supplying energy to the admixture in an amount sufficient to deposit zero valance metal particles onto the substrate. This process gives rise to a number of deposited metallic particle sizes which may be controlled. The compositions prepared by this process are used to produce polymer composites by combining them with readily available commodity and engineering plastics. The polymer composites are used as coatings, or they are used to fabricate articles, such as free-standing films, fibers, fabrics, foams, molded and laminated articles, tubes, adhesives, and fiber reinforced articles.

Abstract: Spacecraft with electrostatic dissipative surfaces are disclosed herein. The surface has layer which includes a plurality of carbon nanotubes to incorporate electrical conductivity into space durable polymeric layers without degrading optical transparency, solar absorptivity or mechanical properties.

Abstract: Polyimides displaying low color in thin films, atomic oxygen resistance, vacuum ultraviolet radiation resistance, solubility in organic solvents in the imide form, high glass transition (Tg) temperatures, and high thermal stability are provided. The poly(amide acid)s, copoly(amide acid)s, polyimides and copolyimides are prepared by the reaction of stoichiometric ratios of an aromatic dianhydride with diamines which contain phenylphosphine oxide groups in polar aprotic solvents.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a percutaneous insertion-capable lead, wherein insertion is made through a percutaneous insertion structure. For one embodiment of such lead, the electrode-supporting stimulation portion of the lead includes at lease one waisted region, relative to a transverse dimension of the lead, to facilitate lead steerability.

Abstract: A method and system for secure transfer of electronic information. The method and system allow secure transfer of electronic information, such as electronic mail (e-mail) using digital certificates.

Abstract: A trick rope device for forming a noose in a horizontal plane includes a rope member having one end formed into a noose. The other end of the rope is swiveling joined to a handle portion. A mechanism is provided for controlling the speed of rotation of the rope member. A flashing light unit is disposed within the handle portion, wherein the flashing of the light unit is directly dependable upon the speed of rotation of the rope member.

Abstract: In a process for producing methanol from a gaseous hydrocarbon feedstock, such as natural gas, containing more than the stoichiometric ratio of hydrogen to carbon, the hydrocarbon is subjected to steam reforming to give synthesis gas, the synthesis gas is incompletely reacted over a catalyst to give methanol, methanol is removed from the gas, the unreacted gas is treated to remove carbon monoxide or carbon dioxide from it, and the carbon monoxide or carbon dioxide or both is recycled to the methanol synthesis. By this means the concentration of carbon monoxide or carbon dioxide or both in the gas passing over the synthesis catalyst is kept at a higher level, thus increasing the efficiency of the synthesis and wastage of feedstock is avoided. At the same time a useful high-purity by-product hydrogen stream is produced.