Abstract: Microwaveable heat retentive receptacles comprising a volume for receiving a product, in heat exchange communication with a microwave absorbing material, wherein the microwave absorbing material preferably comprises polyesters. Pouches containing the microwave absorbing material are also provided which can be associated with containers to provide improved heat storage characteristics.

Abstract: Microwaveable heat retentive receptacles comprising a volume for receiving a product, in heat exchange communication with a microwave absorbing material, wherein the microwave absorbing material preferably comprises monoglycerides, diglycerides, or mixtures thereof. Pouches containing the microwave absorbing material are also provided which can be associated with containers to provide improved heat storage characteristics.

Abstract: A vacuum insulated panel having high thermal insulating value and long vacuum life, and a method of making such a panel are disclosed. The panel is formed of peripherally welded metal wall members which define a cavity within which, in one embodiment, a compressed block of particulate material is disposed. The particulate material, in this embodiment, serves as a barrier to radiant thermal transmission through the panel, acts as a getter to maintain the vacuum in the panel, and supports the walls of the panel against collapse when the cavity is evacuated. The vacuum insulated panel can be covered with a polyurethane foam insulating material. According to a further embodiment of the invention, the filler within the cavity is a sandwich comprising a compressed layer of particulate material suspended between two layers of fiberglass.

Abstract: A vacuum insulated panel having high thermal insulating value is described together with a method of making such a panel. The panel is formed of peripherally welded metallic wall members which define a cavity within which a solid compressed block of particulate material is disposed. The particulate material, preferably an activated carbon black, a silica gel or a combination thereof, serves as a barrier to radiant thermal transmission through the panel, acts as a getter to maintain the vacuum in the cavity, and, with proper density, supports the walls of the panel against collapse when the cavity is evacuated. In one embodiment of the invention, the vacuum insulated panel is covered on one side with a polyurethane foam insulating material.