Abstract: A layered-structure, multifunctional monolith catalyst is provided. The multifunctional monolith catalyst includes a monolithic substrate. A first layer is coated on a surface of the substrate. The first layer includes a first catalyst. A second layer is formed on top of the first layer. The second layer includes a second catalyst, and the second layer is porous. Layering of the first and second catalysts reduces degradation of one or both of the first and second catalysts, and increases a yield of the reaction catalyzed by the second catalyst. A method of converting carbon dioxide to dimethyl ether using the multifunctional monolith catalyst is also provided.

Abstract: A technique involves making mono-axially oriented draw tape. The technique involves forming a solid sheet of thermoplastic material from molten thermoplastic material, and producing a set of draw tape feeds from the solid sheet of thermoplastic material. The technique further involves stretching and annealing the set of draw tape feeds to orient molecules within the set of draw tape feeds such that tensile strength of each draw tape feed is greater in a first direction than in a second direction which is substantially perpendicular to the first direction. As a result, the draw tape feeds are extremely strong in the first direction and well-suited for use in draw tape bags.

Abstract: A system makes a run of cross-linked non-halogenated flame retardant polyolefin material. The system includes an extruder having a die that defines an elongated opening which is at least 7.5 centimeters wide (e.g., substantially 40 centimeters wide). The extruder is configured to extrude molten non-halogenated flame retardant polyolefin material through the die. The system further includes a cooling assembly coupled to the extruder. The cooling assembly is configured to cool the extruded non-halogenated flame retardant polyolefin material so that the extruded non-halogenated flame retardant polyolefin material hardens into a sheet of non-halogenated flame retardant polyolefin material. The system further includes a cross-linking assembly which is configured to cross-link the sheet of non-halogenated flame retardant polyolefin material. Such material is well-suited for use in a variety of applications such as cables, construction materials and furniture, among other things.

Abstract: A technique involves making mono-axially oriented draw tape. The technique involves forming a solid sheet of thermoplastic material from molten thermoplastic material, and producing a set of draw tape feeds from the solid sheet of thermoplastic material. The technique further involves stretching and annealing the set of draw tape feeds to orient molecules within the set of draw tape feeds such that tensile strength of each draw tape feed is greater in a first direction than in a second direction which is substantially perpendicular to the first direction. As a result, the draw tape feeds are extremely strong in the first direction and well-suited for use in draw tape bags.

Abstract: A tape manufacturing system includes an extruder having a die that defines an elongated opening. The extruder provides molten NHFR polyolefin material through the die. The system further includes a cooling assembly, coupled to the extruder, that receives the extruded NHFR polyolefin material from the extruder and cools the extruded NHFR polyolefin material so that the extruded NHFR polyolefin material hardens into a contiguous sheet, and a cutting assembly that receives the contiguous sheet and cuts the contiguous sheet lengthwise to form multiple parallel feeds of NHFR polyolefin tape. The extruder, the cooling assembly and the cutting assembly operate simultaneously in a continuous manner so that the sheet of NHFR polyolefin material is unbroken between the cooling assembly and the cutting assembly. In general, the system is cost effective since multiple, unlimited length feeds of NHFR polyolefin tape can be made at the same time.