Abstract: A method of preparing an oral preparation, especially in the form of hard gelatin capsules, tablets or pellets, for use by the administration of drugs or supplementary nutrients for human beings or animals, said preparation on its outer side being provided with an enteric coating which contains or comprises a calcium salt of a polysaccharide. A moisture-resistant layer containing a protein, especially zein, can be provided between the material to be coated and the enteric coating. The enteric coating is formed in situ by spraying the liquid coating substances in a fluidized bed. The present invention also pertains to oral preparations which is prepared by the method.

Abstract: A method of preparing particles of an exfoliated vermiculite for the manufacture of a finished product, such as a particle board, includes the steps of, if necessary, chemically modifying the vermiculite by impregnating the vermiculite with a suitable anhydride in a non-aqueous solvent; if necessary, applying to the particles of vermiculite an adhesion promoter to promote the adherence of a resin to the surfaces of the particles of vermiculite; and resinating the particles of vermiculite either with a thermoplastic resin which has been surface modified by irradiation or by fluorination, or by an isocyanate thermosetting resin, or by a dry powder novolac thermosetting resin; and if necessary removing any solvent present.

Abstract: Dry-powdered, silica-coated phosphor particles for use in manufacturing a CRT screen are dispersively coated with silica particles on the surface thereof to enhance the flow characteristics of the phosphor particles according to the present invention. A method of manufacturing the dry-powdered, silica-coated phosphor particles comprises the steps of sequentially first-dispersing silica particles in methanol, slowly adding dry-powdered phosphor particles to said silica-dispersed methanol, second-dispersing methanol in the silica-dispersed phosphor particles-adding methanol, filtering said resultant methanol of the second-dispersing step, drying the filtered resultant of the filtering step, and sieving the dried resultant of the drying step through a screen.

Abstract: Disclosed is a process of preparing fluorinated material which comprises thermally treating the mixture of carbon black and hydrocarbon polymer compound powder for covering the surface of the carbon black with the latter and fluorinating the hydrocarbon polymer compound. The thermal treatment can be conducted in two stages.The fluorinated material prepared in accordance with the present invention can provide much more pore volumes acting as gas networks in, for example, an electrode which exhibits high gas permeability or gas supplying ability. Further, the hydrophobicity is as high as that of the material prepared in accordance with mixing carbon black with hydrocarbon polymer compound dispersed in an organic solvent, and is higher than that of the conventional mixture of carbon black and polytetrafluoroethylene particles. The fluorinated material is preferably employed to a fuel cell as gas network material.

Abstract: An aqueous alcoholic fluoroalkyl functional group containing organopolysiloxane-composition, comprising:organopolysiloxanes of formula I:RO?Si(A)(CH.sub.3).sub.z (OR).sub.1-z O!.sub.a ?Si(B)(R.sup.2).sub.y (OR).sub.1-y O!.sub.b ?Si(C)(CH.sub.3)O!.sub.c ?Si(D)(OR)O!.sub.d R.multidot.(HX) (I)wherein A is an aminoalkyl radical derived from the compound of formula II:H.sub.2 N(CH.sub.2).sub.f (NH).sub.g (CH.sub.2).sub.h Si(OR).sub.3-z (CH.sub.3).sub.z (II)wherein 0.ltoreq.f.ltoreq.6, 9=0 if f=0 and g=1 if f>0, 0.ltoreq.h.ltoreq.6 and 0.ltoreq.z.ltoreq.1, and B is a fluoroalkyl radical derived from the compound of formula III:R.sup.1 --Y--(CH.sub.2).sub.2 Si(R.sup.2).sub.y (OR).sub.3-y (III)wherein R.sup.1 is a mono-, oligo- or perfluorinated alkyl group having 1-9 C atoms or a mono-, oligo- or perfluorinated aryl group, Y is a CH.sub.2, O or S group, R.sub.2 is a linear, branched or cyclic alkyl group having 1-8 C atoms or an aryl group and 0.ltoreq.y.ltoreq.

Abstract: Acid-doped, polyaniline-based polymers are formed into fibers, films, and coatings with a solvent of N-ethylpyrrolidone. Such a solvent system is particularly useful for the formation of a solid electrolyte on a capacitive element.

Abstract: The present invention sets forth an enteric coating composition comprising a blend ofa) an alkali-soluble acrylic latex polymer andb) an aqueous solution of ammonium or alkaline salts of cellulose polymers.The invention also sets forth a method for preparing an enterically-coated dosage form and a method for preparing the present compositions.

Abstract: A self-foaming composition includes a foaming agent, a bulking material, and a water soluble polymer. The composition, when mixed with an aqueous carrier, forms a foamed sprayable composition suitable for providing a cover layer over a selected material.

Abstract: A method for the surface stabilization of sand and/or soil is provided. The method is comprised of applying an aqueous polymer dispersion to the surface layer of soil. The aqueous polymer dispersion is comprised of triesters of glycerol with lower aliphatic monocarboxylic acids, citric acid triesters with lower aliphatic monohydric alcohols and/or epoxidized triglycerides of at least partly olefinically unsaturated fatty acids as biodegradable plasticizers in aqueous polyvinyl acetate dispersions.

Abstract: By treating metal oxide fine particles having a specific surface area of 5 to 500 m.sup.2 /g with a silane coupling agent and then further treating the fine particles with a reactive group-terminated organopolysiloxane, the organopolysiloxane is stably bonded to the surface of the powder particles, to thereby improve stability of the modifying effect against the elapse of time and durability.

Abstract: A method of coating implantable open lattice metallic stent prosthesis is disclosed which includes sequentially applying a plurality of relatively thin outer layers of a coating composition comprising a solvent mixture of uncured polymeric silicone material and crosslinker and finely divided biologically active species, possibly of controlled average particle size, to form a coating on each stent surface. The coatings are cured in situ and the coated, cured prosthesis are sterilized in a step that includes preferred pretreatment with argon gas plasma and exposure to gamma radiation electron beam, ethylene oxide, steam.

Abstract: Oil coagulant compositions, and methods of using such compositions to coagulate the oil that has been spilled on water are prepared from a thermal reaction utilizing an oil component selected from the group consisting of glycerides, fatty acids, alkenes and alkynes, and a copolymer component. Representative polymers include, for example, isobutyl methacrylate polymers, and representative oil components include, for example, glycerides such as those derived from a drying oil such as linseed oil. The composition of the present invention floats on the water surface and coagulates oil independent of both agitation and temperature, and can be used in both salt and fresh water. After the coagulant has coagulated the spilled oil, the floating coagulated oil can be readily removed from the water by mechanical means such that at least 99.9% of the oil is removed from the water and only a faint trace of oil remains in the water.

Abstract: This invention provides a novel composite magnetic bead and a method for making the composite magnetic bead. The composite magnetic bead is comprised of a matrix formed from vinyl monomers throughout which is distributed primary beads, each primary bead of which is a magnetizable metal oxide encapsulated in a rigid polymeric coating. The matrix structure allows the composite magnetic bead to swell in organic solvents without loss of the intermeshed primary beads. Further, the matrix can be functionalized to allow the covalent bonding of sites useful for organic syntheses.The composite magnetic beads are made utilizing a core-shell polymerization techinque under conditions which preserve the oxidation state of the magnetizable metal oxide in the primary particles. In one embodiment, primary beads, each having a hydrophobic exterior surface, are dispersed in an inert solvent with a vinyl monomer and a crosslinking agent for that monomer to form a dispersed phase.

Abstract: An effervescent composition comprising a core-shell powder consisting of a fine granular core spray-coated with a liquid mixture containing a water-soluble polymer such as hydroxypropylcellulose or hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, and at least one physiologically active substance, especially an acid-sensitive drugs, and enteric coating film, an effervescing component and an auxiliary effervescing agent which provides for controlled release of the physiologically active substance and in useful for preparing uniform solution or suspension having a refreshing sensation on ingestion.

Abstract: A controlled release pharmaceutical composition for oral administration in humans or animals, comprising a controlled release matrix comprising a pharmaceutically acceptable sodium alginate, a pharmaceutically acceptable water swellable polymer, a pharmaceutically acceptable C.sub.2 -C.sub.50 edible hydrocarbon derivative having a melting point ranging from 25.degree. C. and 90.degree. C. and a pharmaceutically acceptable divalent salt selected from the group consisting of an iron salt, a zinc salt, a magnesium salt, an aluminum salt and a calcium salt and mixtures of any of the foregoing and a therapeutically active agent to be administered and a lubricant or lubricants suitable for forming the composition into tablets or capsules and methods of making and using the same.

Abstract: A pharmaceutical composition for oral administration comprising a film coated tablet exhibiting enhanced disintegration characteristics, said film coating comprising a hydrophilic film forming polymer such as hydroxypropyl methylcellulose and an alkaline agent wherein the alkaline agent reduces the disintegration time of the film coating by increasing the rate of removal of the film coating polymers.

Abstract: Gluing machine for use in plants for producing wood fibreboard panels by a dry process including a hollow cylindrical shell having an inlet opening at one end for feeding an air stream transporting the fibers within which the glue is to be distributed, and an outlet opening at an opposite end for removing the air stream transporting the glue-impregnated fibers. A sprayer is provided for spraying an adhesive onto the fibers flowing through the cylindrical shell. The machine includes members for maintaining the flowing fibers close to the inner wall of the cylindrical shell for a predetermined distance. The sprayer is positioned within the predetermined distance in which the fibers are maintained close to the inner surface of the cylindrical shell.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a solid preparation coated with a non-solvent coating which is prepared by feeding a polymeric powder directly as coating agent while continuously spraying a solid medicine with an atomized mixture of a liquid substance, which has a contact angle against the polymer coating agent of 10 degrees or less, and a plasticizer. A method of manufacturing a dry-coated solid preparation in which a solid preparation, coated with a non-solvent coating, is treated by adding or spraying an atomized water or an aqueous solution of a water soluble substance in the amount of 1-10 wt % of the solid preparation to wet said "coating layer" followed by drying.

Abstract: In a method for preventing dust of a powdery material by mixing the powdery material with a polytetrafluoroethylene and subjecting the mixture to a compression-shearing action taken at temperatures from about 20.degree. to 200.degree. C. thereby the polytetrafluoroethylene is fibrillated to prevent dusting of the powdery material, the method is characterized by that polytetrafluoroethylene is an aqueous emulsion of a homopolymer of tetrafluoroethylene, the homopolymer has a specific gravity of not larger than 2.20 and an average particle size of 0.10-0.50.mu., and the emulsion contains a hydrocarbon-base anionic surfactant of not less than 1.0 wt % of the polytetrafluoroethylene as the emulsion stabilizer. The emulsion is highly stable and a less possible contaminant of underground water.

Abstract: A composite storage tank is built which has double wall characteristics. A method of building the tank comprises the steps of applying a viscous resinous core material to a support surface and then winding onto, into or along with the viscous resinous core material discrete filament bundles. The resinous core material encapsulates the filament bundles, but does not significantly penetrate into an interior of the bundles. The substantially resin-free interiors provide flow paths for the ready detection of wall leakage. The resultant composite storage tank has double wall characteristics. A crack or hole in either an inside or outside surface which extends at least to the encapsulated filament bundle interiors will alert the tank's operator/owner to a leakage problem.

Abstract: Sonochemistry permits extremely rapid cooling to form nanoscale amorphous metal particles. If magnetic, these particles are valuable for magnetic recording media, manufacture of permanent magnets, and other uses. The nanoscale particles agglomerate, however, which limits their utility for these magnetic applications. To keep the particles isolated, we extract the particles from the n-alkane reaction solvent in a polar solvent and cast the extracted particles with a polymer, such as polyvinylpyrrolidone.

Abstract: The present invention relates to crosslinked resin-coated silica fine particles each of which has a crosslinked resin coating formed of a structure of a single layer or a plurality of layers formed on the surface of each calcined silica fine particle through a vinyl-containing silane coupling agent, and the crosslinked resin-coated silica fine particles of the present invention have characteristic features in that the peeling of the resin coatings substantially do not occur when they are dispersed in a dispersing medium with ultrasonic vibration, and that they substantially do not move after the formation of a liquid crystal cell and substantially do not affect a liquid crystal itself and its orientation when used as a spacer for a liquid crystal display device.

Abstract: A cellulosic enteric base is dissolved in an organic solvent capable of being admixed with water in any rate or a mixed solvent of the organic solvent and water to give a polymer solution, followed by mixing the polymer solution with water, then removing the organic solvent to give a concentrate; adding an anionic surfactant to the concentrate and then drying to give polymer powder. The polymer powder is introduced into water to give an emulsion containing polymer particles having an average particle size of not more than 1 .mu.m and the emulsion is dispersed in water containing a plasticizer to give a coating liquid. A drug is coated with the coating liquid to give a solid enteric pharmaceutical preparation.

Abstract: The invention discloses methods of making oil coagulant compositions, the oil coagulants made thereby and processes for using the coagulants to coagulate oil that has been spilled on water. The coagulant is made from a glyceride, such as, for example, the drying oil linseed oil, a polymer, such as, for example, isobutyl methacrylate polymer, and a solvent, such as, for example, 2,2,4-trimethyl-1,3-pentanediol monoisobutyrate. The composition of the present invention floats on the water surface and coagulates oil independent of both agitation and temperature, and can be used in both salt and fresh water. After the coagulant has coagulated the spilled oil, the floating coagulated oil can be readily mechanically removed from the water such that at least 99.9% of the oil is removed from the water and only a faint trace of oil remains in the water. An alternate way of using the composition is to impregnate it into a porous substrate, which substrate is then applied to the spilled oil.

Abstract: A method for preparation of biodegradable polymeric drug delivery devices using relatively low temperatures and non-aqueous solutions which is particularly useful with polyanhydrides, thermolabile drugs, and in forming multi-layered devices.In a first embodiment, the polymer is dissolved in a volatile organic solvent, the drug is dispersed or dissolved in the polymer solution, the mixture is suspended in an organic oil, and the organic solvent is extracted into the oil, creating microspheres. The preferred polymers are polyanhydrides since they are biodegradable and have been proven to be useful in vivo.In a second embodiment, the polymer is dissolved in organic solvent with or without the drug, and the mixture is suspended in glycerol. The suspension is frozen and the organic solvent slowly evaporated.

Abstract: A composition, and methods of forming and using said composition, for the sustained release of non-aggregated, biologically active, erythropoietin (EPO). The sustained release composition of this invention comprises a polymeric matrix of a biocompatible polymer and particles of biologically active, aggregation-stabilized EPO, wherein said particles are dispersed within the biocompatible polymer.The method of the invention for producing a composition for the sustained release of biologically active EPO, includes dissolving a biocompatible polymer in a polymer solvent to form a polymer solution, dispersing particles of biologically active, aggregation-stabilized EPO in the polymer solution, and then solidifying the polymer to form a polymeric matrix containing a dispersion of said EPO particles.The method for using a composition of the invention is a method for providing a therapeutically effective blood level of biologically active, non-aggregated erythropoietin in a subject for a sustained period.

Abstract: A volume of carbon fibrils that includes a multiplicity of fibrils having a morphology consisting of vermicular tubes that are free of a continuous thermal carbon overcoat and have graphite layers that are substantially parallel to the fibril axis and a process for preparing such fibrils.

Abstract: This invention relates generally to a process for preparing composite particles. More specifically, this invention relates to a process for preparing polymer-coated composite particle dispersions wherein excess polymer is removed by a controlled washing step. This invention further relates to a process for preparing composite particles wherein the particles have an inner core particle coated with at least one polymer coating and at least one shell particle coating.

Abstract: A reinforcing composition is provided comprising pellets produced by the process of hydrating glass fibers to achieve a water content on the glass fibers of from about 11 weight percent to about 20 weight percent, mixing the glass fibers for at least about three minutes, thereby forming pellets, and drying.

Abstract: A method for providing improved specific saturation magnetization of coated iron pigments by coating the iron pigments through contacting them with a solution of a copolymer of a reactive aminoquinone, removing the excess copolymer and drying the coated pigments is provided.

Abstract: A carrier comprised of a core with a coating thereover comprised of at least one polymer resin and wherein the outer surface of the coated carrier is fibrillated.

Abstract: Biodegradable, protein microspheres for in vivo release of a biologically active agent, as well as agricultural and environmental applications. The microspheres can be administered orally, intravenously, or subcutaneously for subsequent release. By selecting particular size ranges and the specific protein used to form the microsphere, it is possible to target the microspheres to a cell types such as macrophages, or to effect localized absorption of the microspheres to regions such as the mucosal membranes of the mouth, gastrointestinal tract, or urogenital areas. Larger forms of the microspheres can also be made using standard techniques of the desirable degradation properties.

Abstract: A mass of ferromagnetic particles encapsulated in a polymeric shell having a plurality of denuded organic lubricant particles adhering to the surface of the shell so as to stand in relief from said surface unimpaired by the polymer or any other binder.

Abstract: A method of protecting structures and articles from environmental exposure uses a semi-permanent or temporary in situ formed film or tarp to cover the protected articles. The film is environmentally safe and biodegradable. The film also may function as a release film to protect surfaces, such as aircraft wings and refrigeration surfaces, from ice accumulation and may act as a confining barrier to control particulate materials during transportation.

Abstract: A photovoltaic device has a semiconductor layer; electrodes and a surface protection layer adjacent to the light incident side. Granules of a material different from those of the surface protection layer are disposed in the surface protection layer. The granules in the surface protection layer have an average grain size of 0.001-20 microns, a surface density S from 0.2 to 0.9 and/or a density per volume from 0.001 to 0.5.To produce a surface protecting layer for a photovoltaic device in which the surface protecting layer has granules at a light incident side the surface of a photovoltaic device is painted with a liquid resin containing the granules.

Abstract: A method of fabricating artificial pearls by repeatedly dipping glass or plastic ball elements in a dye liquor and then heat-drying the dip-dyed ball elements at 50.degree.-60.degree. C. for about 15-20 minutes. The dye liquor contains 59 wt %-66 wt % ethyl solvent, 12 wt % acetone, 16.5 wt % cellulose acetate butyrate, 4.4 wt % pearl pigment, 0.55 wt % dye of desired base color, and 0.55 wt % essence.

Abstract: Methods for suppressing the dissemination of dust emissions from dust producing materials are disclosed. Fugitive dust emissions are suppressed by applying aqueous solutions of a copolymer of tannin and a cationic monomer to the dust producing materials.

Abstract: A process for continuously producing coated particles, and in particular, particles in which the coating is uniform, contiguous and of minimal thickness is described, together with an apparatus for conducting the coating process in which a plurality of coating cells connected in series are provided wherein the particles are pneumatically conveys during the coating application and in which controlled recirculation of particles occurs within each cell and a controlled spray is applied to the particles in order to produce a substantially uniform distribution of coating.

Abstract: A method for coating pharmaceutical tablets is disclosed in which polymeric coating ingredients are combined with saccharides in a melt spinning operation to form composite particulates. The particulates are then dispersed in water to form an aqueous polymer coating solution, followed by application to pharmaceutical tablets by such methods as spray coating. The particulates dissolve extremely rapidly in water to form a dispersion of the polymer coating ingredients. Such rapid dissolution allows for increased processing rates and avoids disadvantages of the prior art such as the requirement of high sheer rate mixing for long times.

Abstract: There is disclosed a thermoplastics composition comprising a thermoplastic polymer having incorporated therein a coated particulate inorganic material. The coating on the particles of the inorganic material comprises a combination of a natural or synthetic polymeric material and a wax having a melting point not higher than the melting point of the thermoplastics polymer, and the polymeric material is present in the coating in an amount of from 1% to 10% by weight, based on the weight of dry inorganic material.The improved thermoplastic composition of the invention may be used in making moulded components for automobiles.

Abstract: For titanium and titanium alloys in tribological applications under bound lubrication conditions, there are employed epoxy coatings adhered to the surface of the titanium or titanium alloy by a titanium oxide primer layer. The anti-wear properties of the epoxy coating can be improved by incorporation of an anti-wear filler such as diamond powder. These coatings improve the friction coefficient and anti-wear properties of the titanium and titanium alloys.

Abstract: A process for coating a solid with a water-insoluble or slightly water-soluble coating material consisting essentially of a high-viscosity polymer and/or wax and/or grease, or mixtures thereof, comprises dissolving the said coating material in one or more solvent materials selected from among carboxylic acids, carboxylic acid anhydrides, carboxylic acid halides and/or mixtures thereof, to form a low-viscosity "polymer solution", contacting the solid to be coated with the said "polymer solution", and thereafter chemically or physically modifying the "polymer solution" to cause the formation of a coating of increased viscosity.

Abstract: Method for the preparation of premixes for zootechnic and veterinary use, suitable for uniform distribution in feeds, consisting in coating the granule cores made of feed-grade organic material with a layer made of water-soluble materials, with an active ingredient being incorporated therein or firmly fixed thereto, the formation of said layer being obtained by mixing the ingredients fed in an appropriate order, in a mixer for powders, in the presence of an antitacking agent.

Abstract: A process for preparing a composite particulate material, comprising the steps of providing a particulate primary material having a primary softening temperature; providing a particulate support material having a support softening temperature; providing a particulate binder material having a softening temperature which is less than the primary softening temperature and the support softening temperature; mixing the primary material, the support material and the binder material so as to provide a substantially uniform mixture; and heating the mixture to a temperature greater than or equal to the softening temperature of the binder material and less than the primary softening temperature and the support softening temperature, whereby the binder material binds the primary material to the support material so as to provide a composite particulate material.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of effecting a physico-chemical reaction, in which method a crystalline or amorphous substance is crushed or ground. In the method according to the invention, as soon as a new fractured surface is formed, it is brought into immediate contact with an environment V1 the physico-chemical property of which is so selected that a firm bond or compound is formed between the fractured surface and the molecules of the environment, at least one molecule of said bond or compound being adapted to its purpose for the further treatment of the crushed or ground material in another environment V2, whereby the physico-chemical property of the environment V1 is further so selected that components disadvantageous in view of the further treatment of the crushed or ground material are prevented from getting to the fractured surface.

Abstract: A liquid organic fuel cell is provided which employs a solid electrolyte membrane. An organic fuel, such as a methanol/water mixture, is circulated past an anode of a cell while oxygen or air is circulated past a cathode of the cell. The cell solid electrolyte membrane is preferably fabricated from Nafion.TM.. Additionally, a method for improving the performance of carbon electrode structures for use in organic fuel cells is provided wherein a high surface-area carbon particle/Teflon.TM.-binder structure is immersed within a Nafion.TM./methanol bath to impregnate the electrode with Nafion.TM.. A method for fabricating an anode for use in a organic fuel cell is described wherein metal alloys are deposited onto the electrode in an electro-deposition solution containing perfluorooctanesulfonic acid. A fuel additive containing perfluorooctanesulfonic acid for use with fuel cells employing a sulfuric acid electrolyte is also disclosed.

Abstract: This invention relates to antifreeze multi-component compositions which are combined substantially simultaneous with their application to target surfaces. More specifically, component part A is a mixture which includes some percentage of polysaccharides which contain acid functional groups and a gelatinous material while part B contains at least one polyvalent cation and a solvent. Part A components and part B components are kept separate until ready for application at which time part A and part B components are sprayed onto the intended surface and mixed together in the presence of pressurized air to produce a gel which will adhere to the surface being coated and react to form a resilient coating. Uses for the compositions of this invention include coating aircraft parts such as wings to prevent or remove icing while the plane awaits takeoff. At takeoff, the composition which may contain a release agent, will quickly sluff off the treated parts of the aircraft.

Abstract: This invention relates to hydrophobic free-flowing pellets having an average particle size of 5 to 150 .mu.m, which consist of one or preferably more hydrophilic inorganic powders having a particle size of >0 to 30 .mu.m and contain one or more hydrophobic polyorganosiloxanes in a quantity of 0.03 to 15% by weight, to a process for their production and to their use.

Abstract: A soil top dressing is comprised of a mixture of sand, clay, a plasticizer material, water, and a coloring pigment, if desired. The components of the soil composition are preferably present in the following proportions by weight: sand 50-70%; clay 10-40%; plasticizer 0.5-5.0%; water 5-20%; coloring pigment 1-5%; all coated with kelp meal granules (5-20%). The method of making the invention involves continuously mixing a portion of the sand and the plasticizer in an agitation mixer. The sand becomes coated with the plasticizer, whereupon a quantity of clay is then added, followed by an additional portion of the plasticizing material. It is particularly important that the sand particles become coated with the plasticizing compound and clay. The coloring pigments are added and mixed thereafter. The foregoing particles are thereupon coated with particles of kelp meal. As soon as complete mixing takes place, material can be immediately transferred from the mixer to suitable packaging.

Abstract: Compositions and a method for inhibiting coal oxidation. Coal oxidation is inhibited by applying an aqueous solution of cationic polymer to coal surfaces which are exposed to air. The compositions are preferably applied to coal as foams.