Abstract: A composite material is formed by preparing mass particles consisting of a fibrous material at least partially derived from recycled post-consumer materials and preparing particles of a binding material consisting of a thermoplastic material at least partially derived from recycled post-consumer material. The prepared mass particles and particles of binding material are mixed together such that the binding material liquifies and coats the mass particles which are subsequently then pressed together to form a composite article in which the mass particles typically occupy between 35% and 60% by weight of the composite material and the binding material occupies between 40% and 60% by weight of the composite material. The composite material is suitable for replacing concrete, wood, or other construction, manufacturing or industrial materials, and possesses properties that in some applications may be equal or superior such materials.

Abstract: A method of forming a composite material includes mixing granules of thermoplastic(s) and granules of reinforcing material(s) using a mixer with an interior friction coating. The friction generated by interaction between the granules and friction coating causes granules of at least one of the thermoplastic(s) to be heated to a liquid or semi-liquid state. The liquid/semi-liquid thermoplastic(s) act a binder for the mixed material. A system for forming such a composite material includes such a mixer with an interior friction coating. The system may also include a mould and/or a press for forming material produced by the mixer into a finished shape. The method and system may use post-consumer and post-industrial material as an input allowing such material to be recycled. In some cases, cross-contaminated or mixed post-consumer/post-industrial material may be recycled, potentially reducing environmental impacts.

Abstract: A system and method of the present invention supplies a user of a web-based application with relevant interactive help/training content that corresponds to an object or page of the web-based application that the user's cursor is pointing to. The help/training content may include instructions, policies, procedures, tips and other information that may be dynamically updated and delivered to the user. The relevant help/training content may be displayed in a separate window where general information related to a page or pages as well as specific information related to a particular object (e.g., tagged objects, non-tagged objects, media objects, etc.) may be provided.