Abstract: The present application discloses an agglomerate. The agglomerate comprises a crystalline matrix. The agglomerate may additionally comprise abrasive particles. The agglomerate has a normalized bulk density of less than about 0.38.

Abstract: An interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) or semi-interpenetrating polymer network (semi-IPN) comprises a first phase which is continuous and comprises a flexible polymer and a second phase which is a fluorescent or nonfluorescent durable dispersed or continuous phase and comprises a dye and a polymer, wherein the polymer enhances durability of the dye. Such networks are particularly useful in fluorescent traffic signs or safety devices or in pavement marking tape or paint.

Abstract: A novel release liner is provided which has a release surface comprising a syndiotactic polymer. The release liners of the present invention offer superior release to a wide variety of materials without the application of release agents, have relatively high heat distortion temperatures, and are unaffected by radiation sources used to cure most polymeric compositions. The release liners of the present invention can be microreplicated with a pattern which can be transferred to coatings and other impressionable materials to impart unique physical or optical properties. Thus, a method of producing a patterned article is also provided, as is a method of producing a solid object from a curable composition.

Abstract: Retroreflective sheeting articles 10 that have a retroreflective bead bond layer 15 that contains a polymer that contains linear crystalline segments and that is incorporated into a crosslinked polymeric network.

Abstract: An interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) or semi-interpenetrating polymer network (semi-IPN) comprises a first phase which is continuous and comprises a flexible polymer and a second phase which is a fluorescent or nonfluorescent durable dispersed or continuous phase and comprises a dye and a polymer, wherein the polymer enhances durability of the dye. Such networks are particularly useful in fluorescent traffic signs or safety devices or in pavement marking tape or paint.

Abstract: A retroreflective article utilizing a solventless bead bond composition wherein the bead bond composition includes a urethane/acrylate interpenetrating polymer network in which the urethane polymer is a thermoplastic and the acrylate component is a thermoset. The solventless bead bond is applied as a mixture of diisocyanates, diols, multifunctional acrylates and additives and thermally cured to a rubbery, thermoplastic solid. At this point the bead bond can be softened or molded with the application of heat or stored for a period of time without loss of thermoplasticity. Final retroreflective sheeting constructions which possess superior adhesion to acrylics, toughness and high retroreflectance are achieved by curing the multifunctional acrylates with radiation.