Abstract: Several embodiments disclosed herein pertain to polymer compositions with optical enhancing agents. In some embodiments, the compositions are provided as polymer (layers including medical films), devices, or parts of devices. Some embodiments provide methods of making such compositions and articles of manufacture comprising them, as well as methods of using polymer compositions or the articles made therefrom. In several embodiments, the polymer formulation includes a base polymer and an optical enhancing additive. In some embodiments, surprisingly, the optical enhancing additive confers upon the polymer film improved stability, including thermal stability.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide self-regulating heater cables utilizing substantially solid polymeric buffer layers surrounding the heating elements having improved heat transfer efficiency as well as improved reliability and endurance. The assembly includes first and second power supply wires configured to carry electrical power and separated by a solid spacer, a substantially solid electrically-insulating buffer layer in thermal contact with the heating element, and a cable jacket including a polymeric outer surface and an inner metallic sheath surrounding the buffer layer and in thermal contact with the buffer layer. The buffer layer includes a polymeric material having a thermal conductivity greater than air at standard temperature and pressure and surrounds the heating element, power supply wires, and spacer.

Abstract: An armor for a heat shrink kit for joining a first length of heating cable and a second length of heating cable. The armor includes a spring configured to be positioned over at least a portion of the heat shrink kit, a first fastener configured to couple the spring to at least one of the first length of heating cable and the heat shrink kit, and a second fastener configured to couple the spring to at least one of the second length of heating cable and the heat shrink kit. The armor is configured to provide impact protection to the heat shrink kit.

Abstract: An armor for a heat shrink kit for joining a first length of heating cable and a second length of heating cable. The armor includes a spring configured to be positioned over at least a portion of the heat shrink kit, a first fastener configured to couple the spring to at least one of the first length of heating cable and the heat shrink kit, and a second fastener configured to couple the spring to at least one of the second length of heating cable and the heat shrink kit. The armor is configured to provide impact protection to the heat shrink kit.