Abstract: Self-assembly is defined as the ability of an active ingredient (AI), when mixed with a polymer or polymers (solid or liquid state), to form either a complex or a strong attraction with the polymer/polymers, which influences the controlled release of the total system. This AI-polymer interaction or strong attraction can form in the solid state or in solution. The AI-polymer interaction also can form when applied to a filter paper, soil, seeds, or plant vegetation substrates, where the AI and polymer self-assembles into an AI-polymer-substrate matrix or complex that influences how the AI releases from the complex or matrix in a controlled manner.

Abstract: Self-assembly is defined as the ability of an active ingredient (AI), when mixed with a polymer or polymers (solid or liquid state), to form either a complex or a strong attraction with the polymer/polymers, which influences the controlled release of the total system. This AI-polymer interaction or strong attraction can form in the solid state or in solution. The AI-polymer interaction also can form when applied to a filter paper, soil, seeds, or plant vegetation substrates, where the AI and polymer self-assembles into an AI-polymer-substrate matrix or complex that influences how the AI releases from the complex or matrix in a controlled manner.

Abstract: A solid colored composition which includes a colorant and an ultraviolet radiation transorber. The colorant, in the presence of the ultraviolet radiation transorber, is adapted, upon exposure of the transorber to ultraviolet radiation, to be mutable. The ultraviolet radiation transorber is adapted to absorb ultravioiet radiation and interact with the colorant to effect the irreversible mutation of the colorant. By way of example, the solid colored composition can be a toner adapted to be utilized in an electrophotographic process. The toner includes the colorant and ultraviolet radiation transorber as just described, and a carrier. The carrier can be a polymer, and the toner may contain a charge carrier. The ultraviolet radiation in general will have wavelengths of from about 100 to about 375 nanometers. Especially useful incoherent pulsed ultraviolet radiation is produced by a dielectric barrier discharge excimer lamp.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to improving thermoplastic and cross-linked polymeric networks. The inventive method comprises forming the polymeric network under gravitational conditions comprising from about 10.sup.-6 to about 10.sup.-2 g. Three modes of energy transfer have been recognized, inter alia, conduction, convection, and radiation. Polymeric networks formed under microgravity conditions (defined herein as gravitational conditions comprising from about 10.sup.-6 to about 10.sup.-2 g) do not obviate conduction and radiation modes of energy transfer. Convection energy transfer, however, is gravity dependent. Thus, convection currents can be suppressed in thermoplastic and cross-linked polymeric networks during network formation by forming the network under microgravity conditions. Suppression of convection currents reduces the incidences of voids in solvent cast thermoplastic polymeric membranes, which forms yet another aspect of the present invention.

Abstract: Improved thermooptical sensing devices are provided wherein at various predetermined sectons of an optical fiber is juxtaposed a material characterized by a temperature dependent index of refraction. This material forms a temperature sensitive area which controls the transmission of light through the optical fiber thereby allowing detection of temperature changes along the fiber. The materials may be crystalline thermoplastic polymers, modified organic polymers containing inorganic modifiers, polymer systems containing discrete phases of organic polymers and inorganic additives or thermochromic inorganic compounds.

Abstract: A soft goods type foldable, wrappable sleeve orthopedic cast immobilizes and conforms to the shape and configuration of a limb, or other part of the anatomy. The soft-goods type cast assembly is initially specially formed or configured to specifically fit a selected portion of the anatomy of a patient. The cast conforms to the anatomy through the use of airtight and moisture-proof pouches which encapsulate either (1) open cell or fiberglass matrices impregnated with a water-activated hardenable pre-polymer, or (2) the entire assembly. After the tightening of the cast around the limb, the application of water activates the urethane polymer which conforms to the configuration of the limb encased. Supplemental bendable ribs may be employed to splint the limb prior to activation of the hardenable material. The soft goods type cast is held in place by straps, and may be removed or adjusted by releasing or tightening the straps. The splinting elements may be removed and replaced.