Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a method of processing natural rubber latex using an extruder including a plurality of process zones by processing coagulant with latex to produce a coagulum and serum. In some embodiments, the coagulant can include an acid, a metal salt, or a mixture of both. Some embodiments can include a coagulum wash stage, and a deresination step. In some embodiments, the extruder can be operated to move coagulum through the extruder to remove at least some fraction of water to form a substantially dewatered coagulum, and a drying step to form a dried coagulum. In some embodiments, a stabilizer such as an antioxidant can be introduced into the extruder, and processed to remain in some fraction in the dried coagulum. Some alternative embodiments include a latex processing method of providing a flow of coagulant, and combining latex with the flowing using an emulsion dispensing bar.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a method of processing natural rubber latex using an extruder including a plurality of process zones by processing coagulant with latex to produce a coagulum and serum. In some embodiments, the coagulant can include an acid, a metal salt, or a mixture of both. Some embodiments can include a coagulum wash stage, and a deresination step. In some embodiments, the extruder can be operated to move coagulum through the extruder to remove at least some fraction of water to form a substantially dewatered coagulum, and a drying step to form a dried coagulum. In some embodiments, a stabilizer such as an antioxidant can be introduced into the extruder, and processed to remain in some fraction in the dried coagulum. Some alternative embodiments include a latex processing method of providing a flow of coagulant, and combining latex with the flowing using an emulsion dispensing bar.

Abstract: Various apparatus, methods, and arrangements are provided for a ball house. In one embodiment, an arrangement for aiming a ball toward a predetermined target is provided that comprises a playing surface including the predefined target; and a ball house on the playing surface, the ball house configured to form a ball runway when adjacent to the playing surface, wherein the ball runway is substantially aligned with the predetermined target such that the ball will intersect the predetermined target after passing through the ball runway.