Abstract: A self-heating and self-sealing bladder comprising of a fuel and water resistant layer overlaid on a mold; an adhesive tack layer overlaid on the fuel and water resistant layer; a first fabric reinforcement layer overlaid on the adhesive tack layer; a microballoon powder, water containing microspheres, and reactive salt powders disposed in a plurality of pouches such that upon activation the microballoon powder and the reactive salt powders come in contact with the water and react to create a formulation that results in heat and expansion, thus a self-sealing capability; and, a second fabric reinforcement layer overlaid the plurality of pouches.

Abstract: A mechanical material property test fixture for testing a material, the fixture includes a plurality of beams disposed on one geometrical plane, a plurality of linear bearings, a plurality of hinged linkage bars, and an apparatus that applies force on the plurality of linear bearings such that the material being tested has a uniform force applied on it by the fixture. Each beam has substantially equal angles between adjacent beams, while each linear bearing is disposed on a corresponding beam. The linear bearings are attachable to the material being tested. Each linkage bar communicates with two adjacent linear bearings such that the linear bearings can freely slide along the corresponding beam. The linkage bars are substantially the same length such that a symmetric multi-axial movement in the linear bearings is created, and allows for equal force to be applied to the material.

Abstract: Disclosed is a process for fabricating microporous, open-cell foam of a hierarchical structure from a composition comprising a foamable liquid polymer, a curing agent for the polymer, a blowing agent and a filler that functions as a viscosity modifier for the foam-forming composition. By appropriate selection of materials, microporous, open-cell polymer foam is producible which, due to its hydrophobic character, is capable of absorbing relatively low surface tension liquids, e.g., hydrocarbon oils, and reject high surface tension liquids, e.g., water. These foams may be applied in maritime oil spill clean-up operations.

Abstract: Disclosed is a process for fabricating microporous, open-cell foam of a hierarchical structure from a composition comprising a foamable liquid polymer, a curing agent for the polymer, a blowing agent and a filler that functions as a viscosity modifier for the foam-forming composition. By appropriate selection of materials, microporous, open-cell polymer foam is producible which, due to its hydrophobic character, is capable of absorbing relatively low surface tension liquids, e.g., hydrocarbon oils, and reject high surface tension liquids, e.g., water. These foams may be applied in maritime oil spill clean-up operations.