Abstract: The present invention is directed to a low to high density foamed or solid composite material that comprises a blend of an epoxy based resin system or a low or high molecular weight polyurethane-based pre-polymer resin system and a relatively high level of a broad range of reinforcing materials dispersed therein. The reinforcing materials may be recycled or virgin, organic or inorganic, materials in the form of particles, shavings, flakes, pellets, crystals, hollow or solid spheres, granules or fibers, and may vary in specific gravity and size. The resin system permits a substantially uniform dispersal of the reinforcing materials and subsequently cures to create a complex composite material matrix. The composite material may be rigid, semi-rigid or flexible. The present invention is also directed to a process for preparing the rigid, semi-rigid or flexible foam composite which can be subsequently molded, extruded, calendered or used in spray-applications.

Abstract: An impervious elongated plate is fastened to a building, near the edge of the rooftop. The plate forms a rebound surface with an uninterrupted slope extending downwardly away from the building. Rainwater falling over the edge of the rooftop, strikes the surface, rebounds, and is dispersed along an extended area at ground level, away from the building. The plate may be flexible and resilient, with a memory so that the plate deflects downwardly under load, but returns to its initial position after the load is removed. The plate may be formed as a single work piece. The plate may be extruded from a plastic material. A method includes the step of securing an impervious surface at an uninterrupted slope near the edge of a rooftop so that rainwater falling over the edge strikes the surface. A major portion of the rainwater is directed downwardly and outwardly along the slope. The major portion of the rainwater is scattered as a spray of water droplets falling onto the ground below.

Abstract: A molded fiber product is made from plant fibers containing lignin. Plant fibers ranging in size below 0.5 mm are used. Binding agents and other additives may be mixed with the fibers to enhance product or process performance. The plant fiber mixture of fibers and additives are heated at temperatures between 40 degrees C. and 300 degrees C. The heated fibers are compressed in a mold to an average density of at least 960 kg/m3. Compression pressures of at least 3.4 MPa are used. The compressed fiber product is released from the mold and the mold may be reused. A thermoset molded plant fiber product is provided having characteristics and qualities similar to engineering grade thermoplastics and thermoset plastics.

Abstract: A high density fiber product is made from natural lignin containing plant fibers. Plant fibers ranging in size below about 3000 microns in diameter are used. Binding agents and other additives may be mixed with the fibers to enhance product or process performance. The plant fibers or mixture of fibers and additives are heated to between about 50 degrees C. to about 140 degrees C. The heated fibers are compressed in a mold to an average density of about 50 pounds per cubic foot to about 100 pounds per cubic foot. Compression pressures of about 500 psi to about 2500 psi are used to achieve product densities within this range. The compressed fibers are cured under these temperature and pressure conditions. After the curing time has elapsed, the compressed fiber product is released from the mold and the mold may be reused. A high density product made from small plant fibers is provided.

Abstract: A high density fiber product is made from natural lignin containing plant fibers. Plant fibers ranging in size below about 3000 microns in diameter are used. Binding agents and other additives may be mixed with the fibers to enhance product or process performance. The plant fibers or mixture of fibers and additives are heated to between about 50 degrees C. to about 140 degrees C. The heated fibers are compressed in a mold to an average density of about 50 pounds per cubic foot to about 100 pounds per cubic foot. Compression pressures of about 500 psi to about 2500 psi are used to achieve product densities within this range. The compressed fibers are cured under these temperature and pressure conditions. After the curing time has elapsed, the compressed fiber product is released from the mold and the mold may be reused. A high density product made from small plant fibers is provided.