Abstract: A container for arc-free use and minimal electromagnetic reflection in a microwave oven is disclosed. The container includes a tray having smooth side and bottom walls and edges, with the side wall in elevation having a curved configuration provided with a substantial radius. The configuration of the tray in plan view is either round (circular) or has rounded corners formed with substantial radii. The surfaces of the tray are coated on both sides with a layer of heat-resistant plastic material having a thickness on the order of 0.25 to 2.5 mils. A heat-resistant plastic microwave transparent lid is provided for the tray. In a preferred embodiment, the tray's bottom defines a steam port that, during heating, allows steam to escape therethrough and travel along the tray bottom to further heat the tray bottom and thus the tray's contents.

Abstract: A metal container and system for arc-free use and minimal electromagnetic reflection in a microwave oven. The container has smooth wrinkle-free side and bottom walls and edges, with the side wall in elevation having a curved configuration provided with a generous radius. The configuration of the container in plan view is either round (circular) or has rounded corners formed with generous radii. The surfaces of the walls and edges are coated on both sides with a layer of heat-resistant plastic material having a thickness on the order of 0.25 to 2.5 mils. A heat-resistant plastic rigid microwave transparent lid is provided for the container, the lid having edge portions that cover the edges of the container when the lid is placed thereon. Such edge portions electrically insulate the metal container from the walls of a microwave oven while the lid itself serves to reduce the escape of heat and moisture from the container.

Abstract: An improved flame-retardant thermoplastic compound based upon a surface modified alumina hydrate composition containing powdered alumina hydrate, a liquid mixture of C.sub.10 -C.sub.20 carboxylic acids and a solid mixture of C.sub.14 -C.sub.20 carboxylic acids. A preferred solid mixture comprises stearic acid and palmitic acid. Thermoplastic compounds made with polypropylene and an alumina hydrate composition containing isostearic acid together with the solid fatty acid mixture of the invention exhibit an increased melt index and reduced molding pressure compared with polypropylene compounds made with isostearic acid coated alumina hydrate and no solid fatty acid mixture.