Abstract: Polymeric particles comprising a polymeric matrix that has been formed from a blend of monomers comprising a first monomer which is an ethylenically unsaturated ionic monomer and a second monomer which is an ethylenically unsaturated hydrophobic monomer which is capable of forming a homopolymer of glass transition temperature in excess of 50° C., wherein secondary particles are distributed throughout the matrix, in which the secondary particles comprise a hydrophobic polymer that has been formed from an ethylenically unsaturated hydrophobic monomer which is capable of forming a homopolymer of glass transition temperature in excess of 50° C. and optionally other monomers, which hydrophobic polymer is different from the polymeric matrix. Also claimed is a process for preparing particles. The particles have improved shatter resistance. Preferably the polymeric particles comprise an active ingredient, especially a colourant.

Abstract: The present invention relates to personal care or cosmetic compositions that contain a shatter-resistant blend of microencapsulated colorants that can produce a natural, textured tone effect. A method for cosmetic treatment comprises application of such personal care or cosmetic compositions onto at least a part of the body.

Abstract: A nozzle for broadcasting compressed air foam includes a hollow barrel and a deflector positioned at least partially inside the hollow barrel. The hollow barrel includes an inlet and expands toward an outlet. Optionally, the hollow barrel is defined by a flat surface or a curvilinear surface. The deflector has a tapered body that, optionally, transitions to a convex curve. The shape of the tapered body may conform to the shape of the inner surface of the hollow barrel. The space between the deflector and the hollow barrel defines a passageway for the compressed air foam. The deflector may be fixed or free to rotate.

Abstract: A package (10) for receiving an optical chip (20) having a light source (31) to emit light and a circuit element (33) whose performance is adversely affected by the incidence thereon of stray light from the light source. The package includes a barrier element (81) which is adapted to absorb light emitted by the light source and which is so dimensioned and arranged as to be positioned between the light source and the circuit element when the optical chip is received in the package. The barrier element may be on a shield (50) forming a part of the package.

Abstract: The application describes the addition of serrations to the edge of the light transmissive layer of an integrated optical device. This enables scattered background light to be coupled out of the device, improving the signal-to-noise ratio.

Abstract: The integrated light absorber comprises a light chamber integrated in an optical chip, the chamber having upper and lower walls lying substantially parallel to the chip and peripheral walls extending there between and a light input port in a peripheral wall for receiving light to be absorbed, e.g. from a rib waveguide. At least one of the walls have light absorbing properties and the chamber is shaped so that the majority of light which enters the chamber through the light input port undergoes multiple reflections and so is absorbed by the walls of the chamber. Circular and star-shaped chambers are described.

Abstract: A method and system for determining the homogeneity of one or more components of a mixture of ingredients, especially, is presented. Most importantly, it can be used to determine homogeneity of a tabletted mixture of the produced pharmaceuticals, including active and inactive ingredients. The method and system monitor the pharmaceutical material during tablet manufacture as a powder mix, granular mix and compressed tablets. This system uses near infrared technology for analyzing the uniformity and mass balance of the pharmaceutical mixture to control the tablet manufacturing process. As part of the system and method, a NIR spectral library, consisting of a pharmaceutical materials spanning the normal process range for is developed. Assessment of uniformity is accomplished by comparison of future production with the library of acceptable material.