Abstract: Polymer compositions and methods of making them are provided. Selected surface layers of the polymers, integral with the polymer body, possess pressure sensitive adhesive properties. The polymers are cured with the selected surfaces in contact with a cross-linking inhibition agent which controls the amount of cross-linking of the polymer taking place at the surface. The polymers are useful as, or in conjunction with, prosthetic appliances which are adhered to skin or other substrates.

Abstract: A flow cell for monitoring accumulations of microscopic material in heat exchange systems and the like, by measuring accretion on the surfaces of a pair of plates exposed to a primary flow, includes a split housing which supports the pair of plates in closely spaced relation with an inlet and an outlet positioned to apply a primary flow between the plates, and further includes a cavity formed in each housing half with the back or opposite sides of the plates exposed to the interior of the cavity and fluid inlets and outlets leading into such cavities providing for the flow of a secondary fluid through the cavities and across the back sides of the plates for the purpose of more accurately simulating the thermal gradient conditions on the plates in a heat exchanger, and for monitoring the rate of accumulation on the plate surfaces.

Abstract: A cannula/catheter is provided which is suitable for long term or semi-permanent through-the-skin function while permitting tissue ingrowth which promotes healing and seals out sources of infection. The catheter is provided with a sheath formed of an elastomeric coating which is glow discharge treated, folded back on itself to form a cuff and surgically implanted and anchored in place. The cuff portion of the sheath is advanced outwardly by the growth of skin adherent to its periphery while the catheter is maintained in its original position.

Abstract: Water and air are tested for biological agents by concentrating the biological substances at an air/water interface which permits natural cell multiplication during the concentrating process.

Abstract: A demountable, rectangular, liquid sample flow cell is provided which can be used to make streaming potential or streaming current measurements from which the zeta potential is calculated. By providing an infrared transparent window in the flow cell, a real-time monitoring of surface deposition rates and amounts can be determined by infrared radiometry. Because the flow cell is completely demountable, direct analysis of the internal surfaces exposed to the flowing solution is possible.

Abstract: A scuff-resistant, waterproof environmental quality indicator suitable for field use to blot-test unknown spills or wet containers, as field markers of spray distribution, as floating markers of water contamination, as personnel protection badges and as integrating dosimeters. The environmental quality indicator has a topographically varying surface having substantially uniformly located raised portions defining the scuffing and abrasion level and relieved portions beneath the scuffing and abrasion level to protect the indicator formulation from physical environmental hazards, which can produce an initial false indication, while remaining freely exposed to chemical environmental hazards.

Abstract: An oil slick sampling apparatus and method wherein a substantially annular hoop-like frame adapted to float on water and surround the slick, has an inner annular surface coacted with a surface active material which functions by spreading to compress the area of the oil slick. According to one embodiment the frame is hollow and has one or more openings to collect the oil slick as it is compressed by the inwardly spreading area of the surface active coating; according to a second embodiment the frame is impervious and the slick is compressed by the surface active material inwardly toward a central area thereof whereat suitable collecting means is located to collect the oil slick for further analysis.