Abstract: The present invention relates to a crosslinked lignin comprising a lignin structure having methylene or ethylene linking groups therein crosslinking between phenyl ring carbon atoms, wherein said crosslinked lignin is crosslinked to an extent that it has a number-average molecular weight of at least 10,000 g/mol, is melt-processible, and has either a glass transition temperature of at least 100° C., or is substantially soluble in a polar organic solvent or aqueous alkaline solution. Thermoplastic copolymers containing the crosslinked lignin are also described. Methods for producing the crosslinked lignin and thermoplastic copolymers are also described.

Abstract: An emergency stairway escape apparatus permitting wheelchairs to egress a multi-story building via a stairway comprises a ramp platform of sufficient width to cover at least half of each stair tread and of sufficient length to span from an upper landing to a lower landing of said stairway. A latch is mounted to an outward wall for impinging the ramp platform in a stowed position and releasing the ramp platform to a deployed position. A plurality of hinges are used for affixing an edge of the ramp platform to the outward wall and permit an arcuate release of the ramp platform to a deployed position. A motion retarding reel is mounted to an upper landing wall, the reel comprising high strength cable outwardly dischargeable in a linear manner and self-retracting, the cable comprising a hook attachable to a wheelchair, the reel controlling ascent and descent along the ramp platform.