Abstract: Fillers used in polymer applications are surface modified with an amine prior to compounding with a polymeric resin thus improving the melt flow rate and fusion times of the polymeric resin composition when compounded.

Abstract: A multiposition readable trim position indicator for outboard motors or the like for determining the tilt or angularity of the propeller with respect to a parallel position to the water level. The trim position indicator is attached to the side of the top cover of the outboard motor to give an indication of the angle between the axis of the outboard motor propeller and the water surface. When the outboard motor is tilted, e.g. as the boat comes up to planing speed, the trim position indicator indicates the angular degree of tilt by means of a level-seeking mechanism therein which no longer is centered between two indicator markings. Consequently, appropriate trimming measures may be taken so that maximum propulsion is restored. Due to its unique design, the pointer face of this trim position indicator is readable from both a sitting position and a standing position in the boat. Methods of mounting the trim position indicator on outboard motors both with and without hydrofoil stabilizers are also provided.

Abstract: A selected kaolin crude or crude fraction is purified by physical or physical/chemical means, such as froth flotation and/or selective flocculation, to remove discrete particles of TiO.sub.2 and in some cases, discrete iron minerals. The pure (or purified clay) must then be agitated in the presence of water with a particulate grinding media such as, for example, sand, alumina or zirconia beads, to increase the 2 micron content of the kaolin. An intermediate ground product that contains a substantial weight percentage of particles finer than 1 micron is generated as a result of grinding. The particles finer than 1 micron in the ground kaolin also include those particles in the previously pure or purified kaolin that were present in the naturally occurring clay. A pulp of the ground clay is then fractionated to remove particles larger than 2 microns, e.g., to remove at least 95%, preferably at 100% by weight, of the particles larger than 2 microns, while minimizing the removal of particles finer than 1 micron.

Abstract: A trim position indicator for outboard motors or the like for determining the tilt or angularity of the propeller with respect to a parallel position to the water level. The indicator is attached to the motor shroud to give an indication of the angle between the axis of the motor propeller and the water surface. When the motor is tilted, e.g. as the boat comes up to planing speed, the trim position indicator indicates the angular degree of tilt by means of a float therein which no longer is centered between two indicator markings. Consequently, appropriate trimming measures may be taken so that maximum propulsion is restored. The sensing member may be in the form of an air or light gas filled spherical float which, due to the higher specific gravity of the liquid surrounding it, seeks the highest point within the arc shaped level. Methods of mounting the trim position indicator on outboard boat motors both with and without hydrofoil stabilizers are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for reducing the inherent low shear viscosity of kaolin clays contaminated with expandable layer minerals. A water soluble tetraalkyl ammonium compound is contacted with the clay during conventional wet processing.