Abstract: Bead transporter chucks for selective pick up and discharging of polymer beads for chemical synthesis or analysis, whereby repulsive field conductors are arranged around bead electrodes used for selectively attracting and retaining beads. Problems of bead control are addressed by adding repulsive fields to help guide and direct beads to desired or designated bead collection zones. The repulsive electrodes create non-uniform electric fields that control, focus, and deflect charged beads in the vicinity of the bead collection zone, helping prevent multiple bead retention at intended bead collection zones. For better bead control, and allowing manipulation of beads with higher charge/mass ratios, dielectric material may be positioned around the bead electrode and between the bead electrode and the repulsive field conductor. Multiple bead electrodes may be provided to form two or more bead collection zones, and these may selectively addressed and controlled (e.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for use with substrates which are useful in the sustained delivery of bioeffecting agents are described. The compositions of the invention include a multicomponent complex which attaches a bioeffecting agent to a substrate with an anchor provided by a linker compound which also forms a cleavable linkage so that the bioeffecting agent's release into the area surrounding the substrate occurs in a sustained manner over an extended period of time. The methods of the invention involve providing a bioeffecting composition on the surface of a substrate so that a bioeffecting agent may be released in a sustained manner over time.

Abstract: A capsule for encapsulating implantable cells for improving the detectability of electrical signals generated by the cells is provided. The capsule includes a low-conductivity (high electrical resistance) membrane and a semi-permeable (low electrical resistance) membrane. The low-conductivity membrane seals around the circumference of the cell mass between the electrical poles of the capsule, and further extends for increasing the electrical resistance between the poles. The semi-permeable membrane enables nutrients and waste materials to flow to and from the cell mass. The semi-permeable membrane enclosed at least one of the poles of the cell mass, and cooperates with the low-conductivity membrane to completely enclose the cell mass. The low-conductivity membrane may enclose one of the poles, if desired. Electrodes are used to detect the electrical signals from the cell mass. Various methods of making the capsule are disclosed.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for precisely applying radioactive material to a substrate such as a brachytherapy device is disclosed. A radioactive fluid adapted to cure rapidly is deposited as discrete dots onto a surface with a fluid-jet printhead. The apparatus comprises a fluid-jet printhead in communication with a chamber containing radioactive fluid to be applied by the printhead. The printhead is microprocessor driven, and the microprocessor may be provided with feedback from a station where the radioactivity deposited on a preceding substrate in a batch is measured, permitting the system to be recalibrated on an ongoing basis as the batch of printed devices is produced. Compensation for attenuation of radiation by a casing may also be made part of the feedback technique. Also disclosed is a brachytherapy device having printed on a surface dots of radiation-emitting material, in a pattern comprising various bands, dots or areas.

Abstract: A direct assay is described using novel three-dimensional polymeric assemblies which change from a blue to red color when exposed to an analyte, in one case a flu virus. The assemblies are typically in the form of liposomes which can be maintained in a suspension, and show great intensity in their color changes. Their method of production is also described.

Abstract: An oral dosage form of morphine is formulated by powder-layering an homogeneous mixture of morphine sulfate and hydrous lactose impalpable onto inert beads to obtain a multiparticulate product. A plurality of the powder-layered beads may be administered either in immediate release form or in an extended release form by coating with a hydrophobic material. In addition, multi-particulate oral dosage forms containing therapeutically effective agents containing a plurality of pharmaceutically acceptable inert beads powder-layered with homogeneous mixture of a therapeutically effective agent and hydrous lactose impalpable are also disclosed. A method of preparing the dosage forms as well as a method preparing spheroids containing the homogeneous mixture of therapeutically effective agent and hydrous lactose impalpable are also disclosed.

Abstract: Pearls of an active principle exhibiting an indefinite crystallization point, wherein said pearls exhibit a prolonged, immediate or combination release profiles, are made by melting the active principle and a crystallization excipient to create a molten mixture; introducing the mixture into feed receptacles of a prilling tower; passing the mixture through a nozzle which is vibrated to form pearls; and allowing the pearls to fall in the tower countercurrentwise to cold air, where the tower is provided with a fluidized bed proximate the bottom of the tower and the temperature conditions of the said fluidized bed are maintained depending on the release profile desired.

Abstract: A stable protein-coated nickel particle useful in biological assays contains a nickel particle having removed from the surface thereof nickel oxide; a linker attached to said nickel particle, the linker having a free amino group; and a protein attached to said linker by covalently bonding to the free amino group. Methods of producing and using these oxide-free nickel-protein conjugates are disclosed.

Abstract: Method for electrostatically depositing select doses of medicament powder at select locations on a substrate. Specifically, the apparatus contains a charged particle emitter for generating charged particles that charge a predefined region of a substrate and a charge accumulation control circuit for computing the amount of charge accumulated upon the substrate and deactivating the emitter when a selected quantity of charge has accumulated. Additionally, a triboelectric charging apparatus charges the medicament powder and forms a charged medicament cloud proximate the charged region of the substrate. The medicament particles within the medicament cloud electrostatically adhere to the charged region. The quantity of charge accumulated on the substrate at the predefined region and the charge-to-mass ratio of the medicament powder in the cloud control the amount (dose) of medicament deposited and retained by the substrate.

Abstract: A method for coating cloth especially fiberglass sheets with a thermosetting resin and resulting structure is provided. The coating is performed in two steps. In the first step, essentially all of the strands of the fiberglass are coated with the resin/solvent mixture while maintaining at least some of the interstices or openings essentially free of the solvent mixture. This first coating is then partially cured to between about 70% and 90% of full cure. The coated fiberglass with partially cured resin thereon is then given a second coating of either the same or different thermosetting resin mixture which coats the first coating and fills in the interstices between the fibers. This second coating is then partially cured, which advances the cure of the first coating past 80% full cure and results in an impregnated fiberglass cloth structure for use as sticker sheets.

Abstract: A process for making a light-reflective bicycle frame and a light-reflective bicycle frame made therefrom are provided. The process includes: preparing a bicycle frame, providing a transparent adhesive layer on the bicycle frame, spreading uniformly light-reflective particles on the transparent adhesive layer to form a light-reflective particle layer which is substantially free of any superimposed or overlapping particles, and providing a transparent protective layer on the light-reflective particle layer.

Abstract: Liquid-enzyme-dosing device which consists in projecting the enzymatic liquid by injection onto the end product. Dosing is highly accurate, metered by an in-piping positive-displacement flow rate meter. Regulation of dosing is carried out using a motorized microregulation valve. Monitoring of dosing takes place in a microprocessor which combines all the functions of the apparatus.

Abstract: A powder comprising a metal or metallic compound core having thereon at least one metal or metallic oxide layer having a uniform thickness of from 0.01 .mu.m to 20 .mu.m, wherein the metal of the metal or metallic oxide layer is different from the metal constituting the metal or metallic compound core and a process for preparing the same.

Abstract: A pearlescent pigment comprises C glass flakes having a first layer comprising rutile titanium dioxide or iron oxide thereon and a second layer comprising hydrous oxide or hydroxide of a polyvalent cation, precipitate of said polyvalent cation, and an anionic polymeric compound. A hydrous layer of the rutile forming titanium dioxide or iron oxide is first formed on the glass flakes and the resulting coated flakes are calcined prior to the application of the second layer.

Abstract: This invention relates to a process and a device for producing an even and homogenous coating of liquids or powders on small free-falling objects that are not earthed. The process and the device according to the invention are primarily intended for surface coating of medicinal products and foodstuffs.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for making a selenium-carrier conjugate by covalently attaching (i) an organic selenium compound selected from the group consisting of RSeH, RSeR, RSeR', RSeSeR and RSeSeR', wherein R and R' are each an aliphatic residue containing at least one reactive group selected from the group consisting of aldehyde, amino, alcoholic, carboxylic, phosphate, sulfate, halogen or phenolic reactive groups and combinations thereof, to (ii) a carrier having a constituent capable of forming a covalent bond with said reactive groups of said selenium compound to produce a selenium-carrier conjugate which is capable of specific attachment to a target site. The carrier may be a protein, such as an antibody specific to a bacteria, virus, protozoa, or cell antigen, including without limitation, cell surface antigens, a peptide, carbohydrate, lipid, vitamin, drug, lectin, plasmid, liposome, nucleic acid or a non-metallic implantable device, such as an intraocular implant or a vascular shunt.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for making a selenium-carrier conjugate by covalently attaching (i) an organic selenium compound selected from the group consisting of RSeH, RSeR, RSeR', RSeSeR and RSeSeR', wherein R and R' are each an aliphatic residue containing at least one reactive group selected from the group consisting of aldehyde, amino, alcoholic, carboxylic, phosphate, sulfate, halogen or phenolic reactive groups and combinations thereof, to (ii) a carrier having a constituent capable of forming a covalent bond with said reactive groups of said selenium compound to produce a selenium-carrier conjugate which is capable of specific attachment to a target site. The carrier may be a protein, such as an antibody specific to a bacteria, virus, protozoa, or cell antigen, including without limitation, cell surface antigens, a peptide, carbohydrate, lipid, vitamin, drug, lectin, plasmid, liposome, nucleic acid or a non-metallic implantable device, such as an intraocular implant or a vascular shunt.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for making a selenium-carrier conjugate by covalently attaching (i) an organic selenium compound selected from the group consisting of RSeH, RSeR, RSeR', RSeSeR and RSeSeR', wherein R and R' are each an aliphatic residue containing at least one reactive group selected from the group consisting of aldehyde, amino, alcoholic, phosphate, sulfate, halogen or phenolic reactive groups and combinations thereof, to (ii) a carrier having a constituent capable of forming a covalent bond with said reactive groups of said selenium compound to produce a selenium-carrier conjugate which is capable of specific attachment to a target site. The carrier may be a protein, such as an antibody specific to a bacteria, virus, protozoa, or cell antigen, including without limitation, cell surface antigens, a peptide, carbohydrate, lipid, vitamin, drug, lectin, plasmid, liposome, nucleic acid or a non-metallic implantable device, such as an intraocular implant or a vascular shunt.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for coloring ethylene-propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber granules for use in fabricating rubber products such as athletic surfaces. The method provides an efficient and cost effective method of coloring large quantities of EPDM rubber that provides a durable and permanent color coating on the EPDM rubber. The disclosed method may also be used for coloring other types of rubber or synthetic materials.

Abstract: Several variations in full-color additive gyricons are shown. Each gyricon shown has been designed for ease of construction by eliminating the need for precise placement of rotating elements, alignment between the gyricon layers, if any, and alignment between the gyricon sheet and the addressing device.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for making a selenium-carrier conjugate by covalently attaching (i) an organic selenium compound selected from the group consisting of RSeH, RSeR, RSeR', RSeSeR and RSeSeR', wherein R and R' are each an aliphatic residue containing at least one reactive group selected from the group consisting of aldehyde, amino, alcoholic, carboxylic, phosphate, sulfate, halogen or phenolic reactive groups and combinations thereof, to (ii) a carrier having a constituent capable of forming a covalent bond with said reactive groups of said selenium compound to produce a selenium-carrier conjugate which is capable of specific attachment to a target site. The carrier may be a protein, such as an antibody specific to a bacteria, virus, protozoa, or cell antigen, including without limitation, cell surface antigens, a peptide, carbohydrate, lipid, vitamin, drug, lectin, plasmid, liposome, nucleic acid or a non-metallic implantable device, such as an intraocular implant or a vascular shunt.

Abstract: Oxalate-degrading enzymes and bacteria were encapsulated for both enteric and intraperitoneal administration. We have shown that via alginate microencapsulation of Oxalobacter formigenes, enzymatic activity was retained for several months. A new process was developed which strengthened the aliginate microcapsules and their tolerance to citrate treatment. Much smaller (30-50 .mu.m) aliginate microcapsules were made for injection as means of impantation. For oral administration, multi-encapsulated microspheres of cellulose acetate phthalate in poly-2-vinylpyridine (pKa=3.5) were prepared to protect the enzymes from gastric juices.

Abstract: The invention provides a method of steam stripping an inorganic powder by contacting the inorganic powder with a silylating agent to form a silylated mixture which is pneumatically transported and contacted with steam to form a vaporous stream. This vaporous stream is then transported to a separation stage and the volatile materials are separated from the inorganic powder.

Abstract: A method of coating urea by first wetting urea pellets with water or an aqueous acid solution, and then blended the wetted urea pellets with a phosphate salt. During the coating process, when using an aqueous acid solution, the acid liberates a portion of the phosphate to a form available to the plant, and reduces the loss of urea nitrogen due to volatilization.

Abstract: Multi-functional materials which have a photocatalytic layer with a photocatalytic function disposed on the surface of a base through a binder layer 6 interposed therebetween. Photocatalytic particles of the photocatalytic layer are joined together by a surface energy or solid-state sintering. The photocatalytic layer may have a structure in which fine particles fill interstices defined between photocatalytic particles or a structure in which no fine particles fill interstices defined between photocatalytic particles. A metal such as Ag, Pt, or the like may be fixed or not fixed to surfaces of the photocatalytic particles.

Abstract: The present invention relates to piperazine based amphilic cationic lipids useful for gene therapy, transfection, and introducing immunogenic compounds for the purpose of vaccination. The disclosed compounds have lipophilic moieties linked to the ring nitrogens. In addition, at least one of the ring nitrogens is quatranized and linked to a hydrocarbon having at least one heteroatom.

Abstract: Improvements in the existing procedures and materials for conduct of high gradient magnetic separation (HGMS) are disclosed. The use of plastic coated matrices especially small spheres or balls which form superior magnetic gradient-intensifying supports are disclosed, along with improved methods and apparatus to conduct HGMS. The selection of small spheres in combination with the coating provides for uniform matrices of high stability.

Abstract: A pigment of the present invention comprises:pigment particle as core particle;a lower coat formed on at least a part of surface of the pigment particle, comprising squaric acid, polyol having an anthraquinone skeleton represented by the general formula (I): ##STR1## wherein m is an integer of 0 to 4, n is an integer of 0 to 4 and m+n is an integer of 2 to 4,or a mixture of the squaric acid and the polyol having an anthraquinone skeleton represented by the general formula (I); andan upper coat formed on at least a part of surface of the obtained particle, comprising at least one alkylene glycol represented by the general formula (II):C.sub.q H.sub.2q (OH).sub.2 (II)wherein q is an integer of 2 to 10.Such pigment has excellent dispersion facility, dispersion homogeneity and dispersion stability, and is suitably used for not only organic solvent-type paints but also water-based paints.

Abstract: A membrane structure employing a structure in which a lipid membrane is held by a hydrophilic polymer. The hydrophilic polymer layer contains an aqueous phase. There are functional molecules distributed selectively throughout each layer. The membrane structure is adaptable to applications as a separating agent, filler or delivery agent by performing physical and chemical operations.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a method of making materials and coatings formed from multiple component compositions characterized by improved uniformity, improved dispersion and/or improved homogeneity on the atomic, nanometer, or sub micron scale. These compositions are prepared by forming a mixture of component precursors in the presence of at least one suitable organic reagent and a solvent. Suitable reagents include those in which the sum of the hydroxy and carboxy groups contained in their molecular structure is at least two, which form a rigid, gel-like matrix upon suitable treatment and which decompose completely at high temperatures, leaving no residue. This method is useful for making compositions that are useful in the production of ceramics, supports, catalysts, modified supports, electronics, coatings, films, laminates, superconductors and similar products.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for large scale production of a product of in vivo medicine carriers for medicine administration. The reagents are prepared in solution and contained in respective bags. A series pumps and mixing chambers are connected to the reagent bags. The pumps are set at pre-determined rates and activated in a pre-determined sequence within respective pre-determined delay periods, to achieve instantaneous component mixing and controlled sequential mixing characteristics.

Abstract: A synthetic particulate vector comprising a non-liquid hydrophilic nucleus and an outer layer at least partially consisting of amphiphilic compounds, which is combined with the nucleus by hydrophobic interactions and/or ionic bonds. A process for preparing a particulate vector by encapsulating an ionizable active principle, vectors obtained according to such a process, and pharmaceutical, cosmeticological and food compositions comprising such vectors are also disclosed.

Abstract: A nozzle assembly is provided with a valve to enable the coating of low aspect ratio items such as tablets. In a preferred embodiment a valve is disclosed such that the vacuum forces acting on the surfaces of the valve are equal to the weight of the valve. This balancing of the weight of the valve and the vacuum forces allows gravity to be the primary motive force for actuation. The weight of the valve is used to detect a tablet, such that when a tablet is missing, the valve prevents any coating from being pulled into the nozzle.

Abstract: Purple pigments according to the invention based on a stovable support material, in particular a glass frit, having a coat applied by coprecipitation of an oxide hydrate of one or more elements from the range comprising Al, Si, Sn, Pb, Ti, Nb, Ta, Sc, Y, La, Ce and Zn and a water-insoluble gold compound or colloidal gold are distinguished from prior art pigments of a similar composition by improved color stability in high temperature firing. The pigments are obtainable in the aqueous phase by coprecipitation of an oxide hydrate and a gold compound or colloidal gold in the presence of a support material and in the absence of a reducing agent. Pigments containing gold compounds assume a purple color on heat treatment or by chemical reduction. Preferred pigments containing gold compounds, which may directly be used as decorative colorants, conveniently develop their color during firing of the decoration.

Abstract: X-ray contrast media encapsulated within 50 nm to 10 .mu.m microspheres were shown to be a superior contrast agent for CT imaging of liver tumors. Use of the encapsulated agent resulted in significant improvement in the liver to tumor contrast ratio in CT images over prior art contrast media. The encapsulated media contrast also resulted in sustained contrast enhancement 1 hr after administration, providing the opportunity to use a lesser x-ray exposure in a single scan to discriminate cancerous tissue from normal surrounding tissue.

Abstract: Liposomes suitable as ultrasound contrast agents which contain media of various types including gases, gaseous precursors activated by pH, temperature or pressure, as well as other solid or liquid contrast enhancing agents, are described. Methods of using the same as ultrasound contrast agents are also disclosed. The present invention also comprises novel methods for synthesizing liposomes having encapsulated therein gases.

Abstract: A method for providing an adherent, continuous, conformal, non-particulate coating of a compound of a metal or metalloid on the surface of individual phosphor particles. The method involves wetting each of the individual particles with a polymer solution including a polymer in a solvent base, the polymer being capable of chelating ions of the metal or metalloid. The particles then are dried to produce a continuous coating of the polymer on each of the individual particles. The polymer-coated phosphor particles are suspended in a solution containing ions of the metal or metalloid and having a pH of at least 9 to produce chelation of the metal or metalloid ions by the polymer coating, to produce the adherent, continuous, conformal, non-particulate, metal- or metalloid-compound coating on the particle surfaces. Also described are a method for improving lumen maintenance of a lamp, a coated phosphor powder, and a phosphor-coating composition for coating an inner surface of a lamp envelope.

Abstract: A new and novel solid, microencapsulated product comprising a microencapsulated material contained within a cast, water-soluble, film-forming polymer and the process for preparing such product is disclosed.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for making a selenium-carrier conjugate by covalently attaching (i) an organic selenium compound selected from the group consisting of RSeH, RSeR, RSeR', RSeSeR and RSeSeR', wherein R and R' are each an aliphatic residue containing at least one reactive group selected from the group consisting of aldehyde, amino, alcoholic, carboxylic, phosphate, sulfate, halogen or phenolic reactive groups and combinations thereof, to (ii) a carrier having a constituent capable of forming a covalent bond with said reactive groups of said selenium compound to produce a selenium-carrier conjugate which is capable of specific attachment to a target site. The carrier may be a protein, such as an antibody specific to a bacteria, virus, protozoa, or cell antigen, including without limitation, cell surface antigens, a peptide, carbohydrate, lipid, vitamin, drug, lectin, plasmid, liposome, nucleic acid or a non-metallic implantable device, such as an intraocular implant or a vascular shunt.

Abstract: Cationic lipids, having a derivatized quaternary ammonium head group, that provide improved cell targeting ability and enhanced transfective efficacy for the delivery of molecules into cells. The lipids comprise a linker having functional groups that provide sites for further attachment of drugs, cell receptor ligands or other bioactive agents.

Abstract: An improved process for forming a thin, durable coating of a perfluorosulfonated, salt- or acid-form ionomer on a selected substrate, which comprises contacting the substrate with an aqueous, surface active dispersion of the thermoplastic, sulfonyl fluoride precursor of the perfluorosulfonated, salt- or acid-form ionomer, contacting the dispersion-wetted substrate with a salt solution or a strongly ionizing acid solution of a sufficient ionic strength to cause a thin, adherent coating of the precursor particles in said dispersion to be formed on the substrate, then removing excess dispersion and excess salt or acid solution, annealing the coated substrate at an elevated temperature and thereafter converting the precursor to the desired acid or salt form ionomer.

Abstract: The invention concerns the production of a pre-mixed porous polymeric composition wherein granules of rubber are encapsulated with a first pre-polymer which is cured, a second uncured pre-polymer is then mixed with the encapsulated granules in a substantially moisture-free environment, the mixture is deposited into containers substantially impermeable to water vapor and is then stored for later use so that without further mixing it may be applied to a suitable sub-base surface and the second pre-polymer is allowed to polymerize by reaction with water.

Abstract: A process for the preparation of bichromal spheres comprising (I) preparing monochromal spheres by the aggregation and coalescence of an emulsion resin with a first colorant and inorganic salt; (ii) contacting the resulting monchromal spheres with an oxidizing agent, followed by a polymerization with a vinyl monomer and a free radical initiator; (iii) forming a of the resulting monochromal spheres on a substrate; and (iv) subjecting the resulting monochromal spheres to a vapor thermal deposition with a second colorant dissimilar than the first colorant to thereby coat one hemisphere of each of said monochromal spheres thereby resulting in bichromal spheres with dissimilar colors.

Abstract: A robust polyurethane liner is disclosed for solid propellant rocket motors which is insensitive to large variations in stoichiometry, exhibits increased cohesive strength and, when used in combination with a unique two coat (wet coat) liner process described below, modifies the ballistic properties of the adjacent interfacial propellant layer. The liner compositions include a polymeric binder having a plurality of reactive hydroxyl functional groups and a curing agent having a plurality of reactive isocyanate functional groups. The quantity of binder and curing agent is selected such that the NCO/OH ratio is in the range from 1.5 to 4.5. Diisocyanate curing agents are particularly useful. A bonding agent, such as a polyfunctional aziridine compound, is typically present in the liner composition in an amount ranging from about 3% to about 5%, by weight. An oligomer catalyst is included in the liner composition in an amount ranging from about 15% to about 50%, by weight. Diammonium phosphate ((NH.sub.4).sub.

Abstract: A macroencapsulation device for somatic cells using ultrapurified Na alginate and polysulfone hollow fibers of 30 kDa molecular weight cutoff. Ultrapurified Na alginate material is used which has a high `G` content, low endotoxin content, low divalent metal toxins and low protein impurities. Islet cells prior to being encapsulated, are irrigated with Hank's modified solution (without Ca and Mg) containing gentamycin, vancomycin and amphotericin B and then passed through a leukoabsorb filter to reduce the donor antigen load of passenger leukocytes and to reduce the bioburden of microorganisms including viruses. Encapsulation is done in RPMI 1640 tissue culture fluid containing necessary nutritional supplements and ATP source of energy. The open ends of the fiber are covered with a porous membrane. To further improve biocompatibility, the outer wall of the polysulfone is lightly gelled with alginate gel.

Abstract: An improved resin coated particle comprises a particulate substrate, an inner coating of a curable resin and an outer coating of a substantially cured resin. These improved resin coated particles are produced by first coating the substrate with a reactive resin. A second or outer coating of a resin is then coated over the inner curable resin coating and subjected to conditions of time and temperature sufficient to substantially cure said outer coating while the inner coating remains curable. The particles can be used in a method for treating subterranean formations, which comprises placing in or adjacent to the formation a quantity of the resin coated particle and allowing them to cure into a high strength permeable mass in the formation.

Abstract: Process for the surface treatment of a titanium dioxide pigment, characterized in that it comprises the following steps:an aqueous suspension of titanium dioxide pigments is formed,in a first step, a layer of alumina phosphate is precipitated on the surface of the pigment,in a second step, a layer of alumina is precipitated over the first layer of alumina phosphate,the pigment is recovered from the suspension;and titanium dioxide pigment, characterized in that it comprises a titanium dioxide core coated successively with a layer of alumina phosphate, then with a layer of alumina and then with a layer of magnesium oxide.

Abstract: The invention addresses a method of preparing a dry polymer bead preparation. To achieve this, the polymer beads are coated with a layer of an easily soluble substance which dissolves again in a liquid when the polymer beads are resuspended. The resuspension is thus largely free of agglomerates.

Abstract: Process for the production of expandable particles of styrene polymers, having improved processability characteristics, which comprises:i) producing expandable particles of styrene polymers containing from 2 to 20% of an expanding agent incorporated;ii) covering these particles with an antistatic agent in a quantity of less than 1% by weight;iii) vigorously frictioning the particles in a mixing apparatus in order to heat their surface, in a short time, by simple mechanical friction;iv) discharging the particles thus treated from the mixing apparatus.

Abstract: A method of preparing a membrane is disclosed, which includes the step of impregnating an inorganic proton-conductive material into matrices of porous ceramic membranes. The inorganic proton-conductive material may include an inorganic poly-acid, such as polyphosphates or poly-antimonic acids. The inorganic proton conducting material may include Zr (zirconium).The invention further provides a porous ceramic membrane, which includes an inorganic proton-conductive material impregnated into a porous ceramic membrane matrix.The ceramic membrane may be a tubular ceramic membrane, which includes pores with a diameter of at least 0.3 .mu.m, and depositions of electroconductive coatings onto its surface on which externally applied potential can be applied as a driving force for hydrogen separation.