Abstract: Gray expanded polystyrene achieving target molecular weight, bead size, bead distribution, and cell structure may be reproducibly prepared by suspension polymerization by introducing to the suspension polymerization an additive that is carbon black and/or graphite only after approximately 20 to 60 wt % of the styrene monomer has been converted to polystyrene. Introducing the additive at this point slows the polymerization rate, such as for an optimized period of time to allow for the droplet size to equilibrate to the desired target range. In one nonlimiting embodiment, the styrene polymerization rate has about 35 wt % to about 60 wt % styrene monomer remaining after about 3 hours from the beginning of polymerizing.

Abstract: When long chain primary alcohols are into expanded polystyrene (EPS) containing an additive such as carbon black or graphite to give gray EPS, the long chain primary alcohols act as color enhancing agents and generate a darker color as compared with an otherwise identical gray EPS absent the additive.

Abstract: Gray expanded polystyrene achieving target molecular weight, bead size, bead distribution, and cell structure may be reproducibly prepared by suspension polymerization by introducing to the suspension polymerization an additive that is carbon black and/or graphite only after approximately 20 to 60 wt % of the styrene monomer has been converted to polystyrene. Introducing the additive at this point slows the polymerization rate, such as for an optimized period of time to allow for the droplet size to equilibrate to the desired target range. In one nonlimiting embodiment, the styrene polymerization rate has about 35 wt % to about 60 wt % styrene monomer remaining after about 3 hours from the beginning of polymerizing.

Abstract: When long chain primary alcohols are into expanded polystyrene (EPS) containing an additive such as carbon black or graphite to give gray EPS, the long chain primary alcohols act as color enhancing agents and generate a darker color as compared with an otherwise identical gray EPS absent the additive.

Abstract: Polymer particles of ultrahigh molecular weight poly(alpha-olefins) may be made stable toward agglomeration by suspension within a co-suspension of self-dispersing waxes. This combination prevents polymer agglomeration over time while maintaining good flowability properties. Such materials, ultimately used as pipeline additives to reduce the fluid drag and increase the volumetric throughput, may be shipped and stored for extended periods of time without irreversible loss of the suspension stability.

Abstract: Disclosed are wax based inks for phase change/hot melt inkjet printing or thermal transfer printing applications. Also disclosed are waxes useful for toners for use in electrostatographic printing applications. Both materials are prepared using a wax having a narrow melting range. The narrow melting range of the wax reduces energy requirements in printing applications. The use of the waxes also promotes release for high speed printing and especially promotes fast drying in wax based ink applications.