Abstract: Lignin formulations for making light-selective mulch, methods of making such lignin formulations, light-selective mulches comprising substrates treated with lignin formulations, and methods of making such light-selective mulches. Some methods involve preparing aqueous lignin formulations that can be used as coatings that, in turn, can be applied to a substrate, such as a paper web, to form a biodegradable, light-selective mulch. Some such mulches blocks at least some light in the ultraviolet and blue/green ranges (350 nm to 500 nm) of the visible light spectrum to inhibit weed growth below the mulch, while also transmitting light in the red/infrared ranges to heat the soil below the mulch.

Abstract: Lignin formulations for making light-selective mulch, methods of making such lignin formulations, light-selective mulches comprising substrates treated with lignin formulations, and methods of making such light-selective mulches. Some methods involve preparing aqueous lignin formulations that can be used as coatings that, in turn, can be applied to a substrate, such as a paper web, to form a biodegradable, light-selective mulch. Some such mulches blocks at least some light in the ultraviolet and blue/green ranges (350 nm to 500 nm) of the visible light spectrum to inhibit weed growth below the mulch, while also transmitting light in the red/infrared ranges to heat the soil below the mulch.

Abstract: A lightweight composite article with controlled biodegradation includes a fibrous substrate and one or more additives applied to the fibrous substrate to control the rate of biodegradation of the composite article. The composite article has a weight of less than about 57 grams per square meter, and a biodegradation within a range of from about 30 days to about 150 days. In some embodiments, the additives include one or more of water repellent, antimicrobial agent and biodegradable binder.

Abstract: A lightweight composite article with controlled biodegradation includes a fibrous substrate and one or more additives applied to the fibrous substrate to control the rate of biodegradation of the composite article. The composite article has a weight of less than about 57 grams per square meter, and a biodegradation within a range of from about 30 days to about 150 days. In some embodiments, the additives include one or more of water repellent, antimicrobial agent and biodegradable binder.

Abstract: A stable, aqueous barrier coating composition includes: (a) prolamine; (b) cold water insoluble polymer; (c) water; (d) water-soluble co-solvent; and (e) stabilizer. The composition, when applied to a substrate, produces an article having a high surface energy and resistance to oil and grease penetration. A method of producing the article involves applying the composition to a substrate.

Abstract: A fire resistant fibrous composite article includes fibers bound together into a consolidated fibrous article such as a fiberboard. A first fire retardant composition including a hydrated mineral is in the interior of the article. A second fire retardant composition including a boron-containing compound is in the surface of the article. In another embodiment, a fire resistant fibrous composite article includes fibers, a fire retardant hydrated mineral and a zeolite bound together into a consolidated fibrous article which is resistant to water absorption. Another embodiment provides a lignocellulosic fibrous composite board for use in a roof system in which the board is exposed to bonding energy when it is bonded to another roof system component during construction of the roof. Another embodiment relates to a roof system of which a lignocellulosic fibrous composite board is part. The board or the roof system is in compliance with one or more fire resistance or flame and smoke standards.