Abstract: A composition comprising an ampholytic copolymer or terpolymer and a non ionic surfactant is shown useful in soil treatment, especially moisture and nutrient retention. The highly surface active compositions described herein self-assemble onto root zone plant surfaces and near-root soil, forming a moisture barrier that still permits root growth and oxygen flow. The inventive compositions increases the wettability of the soil allowing the soil to better absorb water at the beneficial root zone, and release it, along with essential nutrients, to the plant root structure. By targeting moisture retention in the root zone, the polymer decreases the migration potential to the root zone, producing higher irrigation efficiency for optimal plant growth with lower treatment levels. Different dilutions of the composition determine the final settling location of the composition, and the formation of the barrier. The compositions may be applied through known means, such as an irrigation system.

Abstract: This invention provides a process for reducing biacetyl in alpha-, beta-unsaturated carboxylic acid esters, particularly in acrylic or methacrylic (hereinafter “(meth)acrylic”) esters, which comprise low levels of weak acid.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for reducing accumulation of solid materials when manufacturing a (meth)acrylic acid ester having low biacetyl content (less than 2 ppm) by adding an aromatic diamine under conditions which provide sufficient residence time and thorough mixing to react up to 100% by weight of the biacetyl in the crude (meth)acrylic acid ester stream, prior to separation and purification. A feedback method is also provided for reducing solids accumulation in the separation and purification equipment of such processes by measuring the biacetyl content and adjusting the aromatic diamine addition rate so that excess aromatic diamine can be minimized. A third embodiment provides a method for reversing an accumulation of solid materials during such processes, while still producing a (meth)acrylic acid ester having low biacetyl content (less than 2 ppm), by reducing or ceasing the addition rate of aromatic diamine for a period of time.

Abstract: This invention provides a process for reducing biacetyl in alpha-, beta-unsaturated carboxylic acid esters, particularly in acrylic or methacrylic (hereinafter “(meth)acrylic”) esters, which comprise low levels of weak acid.

Abstract: An antimicrobial composition is provided. The antimicrobial composition has broad antimicrobial efficacy in a format convenient for no-rinse application to the skin. The composition dries quickly, leaves the skin smooth, comfortable and adequately moisturized. A method of making the antimicrobial composition, a method of sanitizing skin using the antimicrobial composition, and a foam dispenser comprising the antimicrobial composition are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for producing high purity hydroxyalkyl (meth)acrylates. Specifically, the present invention relates to an improved process which can commercially and advantageously yield high purity hydroxyalkyl (meth)acrylates from (meth)acrylic acid and alkylene oxides.

Abstract: A cryogenic refrigeration system for a container is selectively operable to maintain its cargo in frozen and non-frozen conditions. The system includes a cargo compartment defined by a floor, a pair of opposed side walls, a pair of opposed end walls, and a lower ceiling. A roof is located above the lower ceiling. Upper and lower compartments or bunkers are provided between the lower ceiling and the roof, and are separated by a fixed, non-porous upper ceiling. A plurality of openings extend through the lower ceiling for fluid communication between the lower compartment and the cargo compartment. Upper and lower cryogenic snow-forming devices are provided in the upper and lower compartments, with each snow-forming device having a coupling connecting it to a supply of cryogenic liquid.

Abstract: A multi-temperature cryogenic refrigeration system for a container is selectively operable to maintain its cargo in frozen and non-frozen conditions. The system includes a cargo compartment defined by a floor, a pair of opposed side walls, a pair of opposed end walls, and a lower ceiling. A roof is located above the lower ceiling. Upper and lower compartments or bunkers are provided between the lower ceiling and the roof, and are separated by a fixed, non-porous upper ceiling. A plurality of openings extend through the lower ceiling for fluid communication between the lower compartment and the cargo compartment. Upper and lower cryogenic snow-forming devices are provided in the upper and lower compartments, with each snow-forming device having a coupling connecting it to a supply of cryogenic liquid.