Abstract: A method for making stock shapes from a composition which includes a liquid crystal polymer having a high crystallization temperature, the method including: (a) densifying the composition into a compact; and (b) processing the compact at one or more temperatures below the crystallization temperature using a moderate to high strain rate. For the liquid crystal polymer consisting essentially of p, p' biphenol, p-hydroxybenzoic acid and terephthalic acid monomers and sold under the trademark "XYDAR.RTM.", a preferred embodiment includes heating the compact to one or more temperatures between about 400.degree.-650.degree. F.; and extruding the heated compact in the solid state through a uniform flow-type die at a strain rate of at least about 2 sec.sup.-1.

Abstract: A method for making stock shapes from a composition which includes a liquid crystal polymer having a high crystallization temperature, said method comprising: (a) densifying the composition into a compact; and (b) processing the compact at one or more temperatures below the crystallization temperature using a moderate to high strain rate. For the liquid crystal polymer consisting essentially of p, p' biphenol, p-hydroxybenzoic acid and terephthalic acid monomers and sold under the trademark "Xydar.RTM.", a preferred embodiment includes heating the compact to one or more temperatures between about 400.degree.-650.degree. F.; and extruding the heated compact in the solid state through a uniform flow-type die at a strain rate of at least about 2 sec.sup.-1. Thermoplastic stock shapes weighing about four or more pounds and having thicknesses in all dimensions greater than the maximum thickness obtainable through injection molding are also disclosed.

Abstract: Aluminum alloy atomized or other powder is compacted and shaped into a useful article including heating the compact rapidly by induction heating techniques. Such rapid induction heating results in improved strength or toughness properties without substantial penalty in elongation, thereby rendering the product so produced more useful in high strength applications. The product so produced may be subsequently shaped by forging, extruding or rolling processes.