Abstract: Synthetic nylon fiber composite materials having embossed or molded surfaces that emulate shingles or roofing tiles are disclosed, for providing waterproof, high-strength, durable substitute for shingles or roofing tiles. In one embodiment, these materials can be relatively thin, and designed to rest on supporting sheets of plywood, oriented strand board (OSB), or nylon fiber composite board that have been nailed to rafters. In an alternate embodiment, these materials can be manufactured in sheets with sufficient thickness, stiffness, and strength to allow them to be nailed directly to rafters, thereby eliminating the need for a supporting layer of plywood or OSB. In a third embodiment, these materials can be molded or embossed to emulate Spanish tiles, or to provide enhanced drainage or other useful traits.

Abstract: Mounting posts and spacer blocks, for installing and supporting guardrails near roads and other conveyances, can be made from rubber particles that have been obtained from shredded discarded tires. The posts and spacer blocks can be manufactured in any desired lengths (which normally will range from about 1 to about 3 meters, or 3 to 10 feet long for the posts, and up to about 40 cm or 16 inches long for the spacer blocks), and any desired thicknesses (such as with square or rectangular cross-sections ranging from about 10 to about 25 cm, or 4 to 10 inches on each side). The molding process can use an adhesive or other chemical binding agent, and/or heat combined with pressure, and can be done in molding cavities or by extrusion. These posts must have levels of strength and durability which have been declared acceptable, in all respects, to at least one governmental agency which is responsible for purchasing guardrails for installation along highways.