Abstract: A transparent multilayer device which reflects light in the infrared region of the spectrum while transmitting light in the visible region of the spectrum. The device comprises a multilayered polymer film and a transparent conductor. The multilayered polymer film preferably comprises layers of a semi-crystalline naphthalene dicarboxylic acid polyester having an average thickness of not more than 0.5 microns and layers of a second polymer having an average thickness of not more than 0.5 microns. The layers of semi-crystalline naphthalene dicarboxylic acid polyester preferably have a positive stress optical coefficient. The transparent conductor comprises at least one layer containing a metal or a metal compound in which the metal compound is preferably selected from the group consisting of metal oxides, metal alloys, and combinations thereof. Silver and indium tin oxide are particularly preferred transparent conductors.

Abstract: Composite energy control sheet of the type wherein a transparent-reflective metal layer is coated on a self-supporting transparent polymeric foil and protectively covered with a transparent polymeric layer. The protective polymeric layer is chosen to transmit 80% or more of the normal room temperature radiant energy spectrum (about 4-40 micrometer wavelength) so that when the energy control sheet is positioned adjacent (but other than outside of) a glazing unit and oriented so that the protective layer does not contact any face of the glazing unit, heat loss from the room is significantly decreased and the cold weather performance of the sheet is greatly improved. Among the suitable polymers for the polymeric layer are polyethylene, polypropylene and polyacrylonitrile.

Abstract: A process for providing a thermal insulating cover of discrete particles for a container of fluids involves forming a plurality of hollow interior, discrete, ceramic particles, firing the particles at a temperature of at least 350.degree. C and then covering the heated liquid with at least a 1/8 inch thick layer of the fired particles. A potentially improved ceramic thermal insulating particle is also described and contains a hollow interior with a plurality of partitions.