Abstract: According to one embodiment of the invention, a method for removing particles from a conditioner disk used in a chemical mechanical polishing system includes submersing the conditioner disk in a fluid medium and introducing a vibrational energy to the fluid medium. The fluid medium may be deionized water and the vibrational energy may be ultrasonically introduced.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an edible thermoplastic made from about 30 to 50 wt. % protein comprising a mixture of plant and animal derived protein, about 20 to 50 wt. % starch about 10 to 20 wt. % water, about 1 to 10 wt. % edible fiber, and about 0.5 to 3 wt. % metallic salt hydrate. When molded, the thermoplastic has good strength and stiffness and other physical properties. The edible thermoplastic may be molded in a variety of shapes including a segmented nutritional pet chew with a plurality of segments separated by a plurality of scores. The scores serve to structurally weaken the pet chew so that it may be broken into smaller pieces. When molded the edible thermoplastic has a density of about 1.2 to 1.5 g/cubic centimeters.

Abstract: Protein-based, edible chewable pet toys, such as artificial dog bones, and methods of preparing such chewable pet toys are disclosed. The chewable pet toys are made from protein-based thermoplastic composition containing plant and animal derived proteinic material and various additive and nutrient ingredients. Chewable pet toys within the scope of the present invention possess properties of conventional artificial dog bones made of synthetic polymer, such as good strength and hardness, but they are biodegradable and edible. In addition, the chewable pet toys contain vitamins, minerals, flavorings, oral hygiene additives and other ingredients to help keep teeth and bones strong and to promote the growth and health of the pet.

Abstract: The invention provides a biodegradable protein/starch-based thermoplastic composition. The composition is particularly useful in preparing low ratio expanded foams. Natural cellulosic fibers such as grass fiber, wood fiber, chopped straw, bagasse, etc. function as reinforcement filler. A metallic salt hydrate is added to improve mechanical properties of the protein/starch-based thermoplastic. The composition is processed by conventional methods, such as extrusion and injection molding, into packaging material or articles that are low density, high compressive strength, tensile strength, and good resilience.