Abstract: A lighted fishing rod is provided. A light source is disposed in near proximity to the rod tip for illuminating the rod tip and line, while having sufficient luminosity to effectively light a surrounding area to enable one to see one's way in the dark. The power source for the light is located in the handle of the rod, with electrical connections passing within the hollow rod leading from the power source to the light source. Switch means are located on the exterior of the handle for turning on and off the light.

Abstract: A flexible closed cell polymeric foam contains expandable graphite as fire retardant. The foam is prepared by mixing a polymer, a curing agent, at least one blowing agent and an expandable graphite at a temperature of at least 100.degree. C. but below a temperature causing activation of the blowing agent to foam a foamable mixture and thereafter heating the foamable mixture to activate the blowing agent and cause foaming. The method of preparation may additionally include a curing step in which the foamable mixture is heated under pressure to activate simultaneously each of a curing agent, which is preferably a free radical curing agent, and a foaming agent. The foams are capable of meeting the U.S. Federal Aviation Authority Standards, especially the oil burner test of FAR 25 Appendix F, part II.

Abstract: A flexible closed cell polymeric foam contains expandable graphite as fire retardant. The foam is prepared by mixing a polymer, a curing agent, at least one blowing agent and an expandable graphite at a temperature of at least 100.degree. C. but below a temperature causing activation of the blowing agent to foam a foamable mixture and thereafter heating the foamable mixture to activate the blowing agent and cause foaming. The method of preparation may additionally include a curing step in which the foamable mixture is heated under pressure to activate simultaneously each of a curing agent, which is preferably a free radical curing agent, and a foaming agent. The foams are capable of meeting the US Federal Aviation Authority Standards, especially the oil burner test of FAR 25 Appendix F, part II.

Abstract: An improved spring/foam cushion is formed of an assembly of an integral foam body sandwiched between two foam caps, and imbedded with individual spring units.