Abstract: An insulated conductor (20) for use in a communication cable which includes a filling material (30) includes a copper conductor (25) and a composite insulation system (27) comprising two concentric layers of insulation. An inner foam layer (28) of the insulation comprises a cellular plastic material (28) which includes a stabilizer system. An outer layer (29) of the insulation is referred to as a skin and comprises a stabilized solid plastic material. The stabilizer system in each of the cellular and solid layers includes a bifunctional portion that functions as an antioxidant and as a metal deactivator and that has a relatively high resistance to extraction. The level of the bifunctional portion of the stabilizer in the cellular material is substantially greater than that in the skin inasmuch as it has been found that the level of the stabilizer cellular layer contiguous to the copper wire determines the oxidation performance level of the composite insulation.

Abstract: A mineral-oil-free composition of matter useful as a cable splice encapsulant comprises between about 20% and about 60% polyurethane, by weight of the cured encapsulant, the balance comprising plasticizer(s) and optionally, additives such as catalysts, antioxidants and fungicides.

Abstract: A mineral oil-free cured cable splice encapsulant comprises between about 20% and about 60% polyurethane, by weight of the cured encapsulant, the balance comprising diluent(s) and/or plasticizers, and typically has a cure and typically has a cure time of at least 50 minutes at 25.degree. C. The relatively long cure time, together with other properties of the material, including a viscosity typically between 150 and 1500 centipose, and relatively good "bonding" to plastic-insulated conductors, results in improved water-intrusion resistance of splices enveloped in the novel encapsulant.

Abstract: An article for the sustained release of an insecticide into the ambient air comprises an elastomeric matrix, with the insecticide dissolved in the matrix. The matrix material has a modulus between about 10.sup.4 Pa and about 10.sup.8 Pa at 23.degree. C., and a glass transition temperature less than 0.degree. C. The matrix comprises polyurethane formed by reacting hydroxyl-terminated polybutadiene or polyisoprene and 4,4' diphenylmethane diisocyanate, and the insecticide is 2,2' dichlorovinyl dimethyl phosphate. The insecticide-containing matrix is contained in a plastic bottle, and typically protected against inadvertent skin contact by means of a dermal barrier. The article also comprises means for activating the article such that, prior to activation, release of insecticide into the ambient air is prevented, whereas such release can take place after activation. Exemplary activation means comprise a metal foil seal of the plastic bottle. The article is effective in controlling insect infestation (e.g.

Abstract: Means for the sustained release of an active agent into the environment comprise an elastomeric matrix and the active agent contained in the matrix. The matrix material has a modulus between about 10.sup.4 Pa and about 10.sup.8 Pa at 23.degree. C., and a glass transition temperature less than 0.degree. C. The matrix comprises polyurethane formed by reacting polyol and isocyanate, and the active agent can be any biologically or nonbiologically active agent that is compatible with the matrix, e.g., the insecticide 2,2' dichlorovinyl dimethyl phosphate. The inventive sustained release system has particularly advantageous release properties, e.g., it typically can release more than 70% of the active agent contained in the matrix.

Abstract: A varnish suitable for spray coating on plastic insulated copper conductors restores cracked or damaged insulation. The varnish cures by reaction in air upon application to the conductors. The varnish comprises drying oil (typically, tung oil and castor oil), phenolic resin, metallic catalysts, and solvents.

Abstract: A filling composition comprising a styrene-rubber-styrene block copolymer and an oil is used to prevent water entry into optical fiber cable. The composition provides:(1) suitably low viscosity to allow filling the cable at elevated temperatures;(2) low modulus to minimize microbending loss in the optical fibers; and(3) high slump temperature to minimize flow of the material at an elevated service temperature from the end of a filled cable.

Abstract: An improved, solvent-resistant sealing compound is described. It is an acrylic rubber composition adapted particularly for sealing splice case closures around telecommunications cable.

Abstract: An improved filling material having superior handling characteristics and useful for waterproofing electrical cables is disclosed. The material is a styrene-ethylene butylene styrene block copolymer dissolved in a naphthenic or paraffinic oil, with polyethylene added for consistency.

Abstract: An improved filling material having superior handling characteristics and useful for waterproofing electrical cables is disclosed. The material is a styrene-ethylene butylene-styrene block copolymer dissolved in mineral oil, with polyethylene added for consistency.