Including Interfacial Reaction Product Of Adjacent Layers Patents (Class 428/420)
  • Patent number: 6431735
    Abstract: A lamp lens, and method for producing such lens, is provided which includes a clear plastic substrate. A soft, flexible layer is sandwiched between the substrate and an outer abrasion resistant layer. The material which forms each layer is intermixed at the interface of the layers. In this manner, a multilayer film may be provided upon the substrate wherein a hard outer layer stays on top of a softer layer adhered to the plastic substrate. A vehicle headlamp which includes such a lamp lens is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2002
    Assignee: Valeo Sylvania L L.C.
    Inventor: Robert L. Fraizer
  • Publication number: 20020106583
    Abstract: A base material for a lithographic printing plate comprising a support, a hydrophilic organic polymer compound that is chemically bonded to a surface of the support, and an ionic compound that is ionically bonded to the hydrophilic organic polymer compound; and a lithographic printing plate comprising the base material and an image forming layer provided thereon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2001
    Publication date: August 8, 2002
    Inventors: Koichi Kawamura, Miki Takahashi, Sumiaki Yamasaki, Tadahiro Sorori
  • Patent number: 6409875
    Abstract: The invention discloses an adhesion agent composition comprising at least one C3-C200 olefin compound having at least one metathesis active double bond, wherein the olefin is substituted or unsubstituted; and at least one compatibilizing functionality for interacting with a substrate surface. The substrate surface can be any surface, for example, silicate glasses, silicate minerals, metals, metal alloys, ceramics, natural stones, plastics, carbon, silicon, and semiconductors. The invention also discloses articles of manufacture utilizing these adhesion agents as well as methods for adhering a polyolefin to a substrate surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2002
    Assignee: Materia, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael A. Giardello, Christopher M. Haar
  • Publication number: 20020054996
    Abstract: The present invention relates to: a method of preparing a capstock layer that includes a comb copolymer; a method of preparing a multi-layered polymeric composite, one layer of which is a capstock layer; and a capstock layer and a multi-layered composite formed, respectively, thereby.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2001
    Publication date: May 9, 2002
    Inventor: Paul Ralph Van Rheenen
  • Patent number: 6383328
    Abstract: A decorated article is disclosed which has a uniform color tone and which is excellent in heat resistance and humidity resistance which can be produced by preparing a base material, a surface of which is composed of an overlay, by injection molding or the like, the overlay having a wood material layer, a first side of the wood material layer constituting a surface of the overlay; providing a thermosetting coloring layer comprising at least one thermosetting resin, or a modified resin thereof, selected from the group of urethane resins, epoxy resins, amino-alkyd resins, and acrylic resins on the first side of the wood material layer; and laminating the surface of the thermosetting coloring layer with a thermoplastic resin sheet by a glue, and carrying out hot-pressing. The thermosetting coloring layer 15 may be formed by laminating a coloring layer 15A and a sealing layer 15B in that order.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Assignee: Yamaha Corporation
    Inventors: Seizi Nakada, Senji Suzuki, Shinjiro Kawaguchi, Hisayoshi Osumi
  • Patent number: 6350816
    Abstract: Resins comprising (meth)acrylic unsaturations are obtained by reacting functional groups of unsaturated monomers without solvents at temperatures above 150° C. and under controlled heat exchange, while maintaining intact their unsaturations, with functional groups of saturated and/or unsaturated polymers. The technologies and the work cycles used for conventional resins may also be used for these resin types.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2002
    Assignee: Solutia Italy S.r.l.
    Inventors: Silvestro Farronato, Sergio Gazzea, Roberto Chinellato
  • Patent number: 6348305
    Abstract: A photographic element comprising a film support base, an adhesion promoting layer, a subbing layer and at least one light-sensitive silver halide emulsion layer, wherein the adhesion promoting layer is close to the support and contains a silane compound and a polyurethane, and the subbing layer, selected within the group consisting of a hydrophilic colloidal layer or a layer comprising a continuous gelled network of inorganic particles, is positioned between the adhesion promoting layer and the emulsion layer. The present invention also refers to a photographic element comprising a film support base having coated on one side thereof at least one light-sensitive silver halide emulsion layer and on the opposite side thereof an adhesion promoting layer and at least one auxiliary layer, wherein the adhesion promoting layer is close to the support and contains a silane compound and a polyurethane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2002
    Assignee: Ferrania, S.p.A.
    Inventors: Paola Puppo, Alberto Valsecchi, Carlo Barlocco
  • Patent number: 6344104
    Abstract: A reduction of the surface tackiness of a low-hardness thermally conductive silicone rubber sheet is performed by coating an organohydrogenpolysiloxane oil evenly on a resin film, and pasting together the oil-coated side of the resin film and an addition-cured low-hardness thermally conductive silicone rubber sheet having an Asker C hardness of from 1 to 80. Pasting can be done, for example, by passage between two rolls to supply the organohydrogenpolysiloxane oil to the surface of the silicone rubber sheet. Then, in only the surface part of the sheet, a cross-linking reaction is caused to reduce the tackiness of the sheet surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2002
    Assignee: Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tokio Sekiya, Akio Nakano
  • Patent number: 6337135
    Abstract: A fluorine-containing polymer, having a number-average molecular weight of 500 to 100,000 and represented by the following general formula Rf—(OC3F6)a—(OC2F4)b—(OCF2)c—X—Y—Z—MPnRm−n or PnRm−nM—Z—Y—X—(OC3F6)a—(OC2F4)b—(OCF2)c—X—Y—Z—MPnRm−n (wherein Rf is a perfluoroalkyl group; a, b and c independently represent 0 or a number equal to or greater than 1, with the proviso that the sum of a, b and c is at least 1; X is a group represented by the formula: —(O)d—(CF2)e—(CH2)f—; Y is a divalent polar group; Z is a group represented by the formula: —(CH2)g—; M is a metal atom; R is a hydrocarbon group; P is a hydrolyzable polar group; m is an integer equal to “(valency of M)−1”; and n is an integer of 1 to m), exhibits excellent stainproof property against oily dirt and can form on a substrate a stainproof layer having an excellent stainproof pro
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2002
    Assignee: Daikin Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Fumihiko Yamaguchi, Yoshitaka Honda
  • Publication number: 20010024770
    Abstract: A photographic element comprising a film support base, an adhesion promoting layer, a subbing layer and at least one light-sensitive silver halide emulsion layer, wherein the adhesion promoting layer is close to the support and contains a silane compound and a polyurethane, and the subbing layer, selected within the group consisting of a hydrophilic colloidal layer or a layer comprising a continuous gelled network of inorganic particles, is positioned between the adhesion promoting layer and the emulsion layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2001
    Publication date: September 27, 2001
    Applicant: Ferrania S.p.A
    Inventors: Paola Puppo, Alberto Valsecchi, Carlo Barlocco
  • Patent number: 6284085
    Abstract: The bonding of two materials through hydroxide-catalyzed hydration/dehydration is achieved at room temperature by applying hydroxide ions to at least one of the two bonding surfaces and by placing the surfaces sufficiently close to each other to form a chemical bond between them. The surfaces may be placed sufficiently close to each other by simply placing one surface on top of the other. A silicate material may also be used as a filling material to help fill gaps between the surfaces caused by surface figure mismatches. A powder of a silica-based or silica-containing material may also be used as an additional filling material. The hydroxide-catalyzed bonding method forms bonds which are not only as precise and transparent as optical contact bonds, but also as strong and reliable as high-temperature frit bonds. The hydroxide-catalyzed bonding method is also simple and inexpensive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Assignee: The Board of Trustees of the Leland Stanford Junior University
    Inventor: Dz-Hung Gwo
  • Patent number: 6284391
    Abstract: A method for forming a sol-gel on a metal surface to provide an interface for promoting adhesion between the metal surface and an organic resin involves application of at least one metal alkoxide compound having at least one labile sulfur atom, and at least one metal alkoxide compound having at least one reactive moiety which is capable of bonding with an organic resin. The metal alkoxide compound having at least one labile sulfur atom is capable of bonding to various metal surfaces, including surfaces of noble metals, such as gold, by a sulfur-metal linkage with the metal surface. The metal alkoxide compound having at least one labile sulfur atom reacts with the metal alkoxide compound having at least one reactive moiety which is capable of bonding with the organic resin to form a sol-gel which bonds to the surface of the metal, and which includes reactive moieties which are capable of bonding with an organic resin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Assignee: Corning Incorporated
    Inventor: Russell A. Crook
  • Patent number: 6284365
    Abstract: A method for producing a composite material, wherein compound A having a group selected from an aliphatic hydrocarbon group, aromatic hydrocarbon group and heterocycle-containing group which comprises a functional group which can bond to a compound B allowed to bond to a substrate, then compound B having a functional group which can bond to said functional group in compound A is allowed to bond to compound A is disclosed. Embodiments in which compound A is represented by formula (1); R1M1Y13, formula (2); R1R2M1Y12, formula (3); R1R2R3M1Y1 and formula (4); R1—SH: embodiments in which compound A is a silane compound: the functional group of compound A is a halogen group or an epoxy group: and embodiments in which compound B is selected from aliphatic hydrocarbon compounds, aromatic hydrocarbon compounds and heterocycle-containing compounds having an amino group, carboxyl group or hydroxyl group, are preferred.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Assignee: Fuji Xerox Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hidekazu Hirose, Yoshiyuki Ono, Katsuhiro Sato, Akira Imai
  • Patent number: 6280846
    Abstract: Curable compositions for making fibre-reinforcement structural composites such as GRP comprise an unsaturated polyester resin base, a co-polymerizable monomer and preferably, one or more performance-enhancing additives. Thixotropy is endowed by 5% by weight or less of an organic amide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2001
    Assignee: Cray Valley Limited
    Inventors: Paul Darby, Paul Sutton
  • Patent number: 6235396
    Abstract: An optical lens comprising a polyvinylalcohol film layer that is covalently bonded to a bulk polymerizable material during formation of the polymeric lens. The bulk optical lens polymer is preferably a glycol bis(allylcarbonate). Covalent bonding between these materials is achieved via an adhesive mixture that contains (a) a polyurethane to bond with the polyvinylalcohol layer, and (b) a polymethacrylate terpolymer with (i) pendant hydroxy groups that bind to the urethane, and (ii) pendant allyl groups that covalently bond to the bulk polymer. This strong covalent bonding reduces the chance of delamination of the lens during surfacing, polishing, and edging, and preserves its integrity during the lifetime of the finished eyewear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2001
    Inventor: Arthur R. Dixon
  • Patent number: 6224710
    Abstract: A curable polymeric composition which is a liquid at 20° C. and which comprises 25 to 60% by weight of a resin component which comprises an epoxy, 5 to 25% by weight of a curing agent which comprises two components, a first component which is a cycloaliphatic amine or an aromatic amine, and a second component which is a polyamide amine, and 20 to 65% by weight of an inert inorganic filler. The curable composition can be used in a method of protecting a substrate such as a pipe or a pipe joint from corrosion or mechanical damage. In the method, the curable composition is first applied to the substrate, polymeric covering layer is applied over the curable composition with an innermost layer of a heat-activatable sealant in intimate contact with the curable composition, and the curable composition is then cured. During the curing process, the heat-activatable sealant, e.g. a hot melt adhesive, remains in contact with the curable composition and interacts therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventors: James Rinde, George Pieslak, Leon C. Glover
  • Patent number: 6203919
    Abstract: An electrically insulating film capable of maintaining a preferable insulating property even with a film thickness of only some &mgr;and a method for preparing the same are disclosed. The insulating film comprises a first layer formed on a surface of a conductor substrate of a transition metal and comprised of molecules fixed on the surface of the conductor substrate through chemical bonds such as transition metal-sulfur bonds or chelate bonds, and a second layer formed on the first layer and comprised of a resin bonded to the molecules of the first layer through covalent bonds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yasuo Takebe, Tadashi Ootake, Norihisa Mino, Hiroaki Takezawa
  • Patent number: 6194073
    Abstract: Disclosed is a heterogeneous polymer gel comprising at least two gel networks. One embodiment of the present invention concerns a heterogeneous polymer gel comprising a first gel network comprising an environmentally-stable gel and a second gel network comprising an environmentally-unstable gel wherein the first gel network interpenetrates the second gel network. The heterogeneous polymer gel exhibits controlled changes in volume in response to environmental changes in condition, such as of temperature or of chemical composition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2001
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc
    Inventors: Yong Li, Zhibing Hu, Xiaomin Zhang
  • Patent number: 6180242
    Abstract: An aqueous adhesive composition for wet lamination of substrate layers to form a laminated article includes from about 40 weight percent to about 65 weight percent solids dispersed in an aqueous medium, wherein the solids include a polymer having repeating units derived from a vinyl ester monomer and having a glass transition temperature of about −15° C. to about +15° C.; and from about 0.1 parts by weight to about 40 parts by weight of a plasticizer compound per 100 parts by weight of the polymer. A method for making a laminated article includes applying a wet layer of the aqueous laminating adhesive composition of the to a first substrate layer; covering the wet layer of adhesive composition with a second substrate layer; and drying the layer of adhesive composition to form the laminated article. A laminated article includes two substrate layers bonded together by an interposed layer of the dried adhesive composition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Assignee: Rohm and Haas Company
    Inventors: Eric Karl Eisenhart, Bradley Anson Jacobs, Louis Christopher Graziano
  • Patent number: 6176965
    Abstract: A bonded structure of an Al alloy pressed plate, in which another member is bonded onto the surface of the Al alloy pressed plate that has a lubricant layer by use of an epoxy resin based adhesive. The adhesive contains an epoxy resin, a dehydrated phosphate and a latent curing agent. The epoxy resin comprises a polyester type epoxy resin and at least one resin selected from the group consisting of a bisphenol epoxy resin, a rubber-modified bisphenol epoxy resin, and a urethane-modified epoxy resin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2001
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Kazuyuki Okui, Makoto Shiokawa
  • Patent number: 6159565
    Abstract: An intraluminal vascular graft in the form of a tube of porous expanded polytetrafluoroethylene film wherein the porous polytetrafluoroethylene film has a microstructure containing a multiplicity of fibrils oriented substantially parallel to each other. The tube has a wall thickness of less than about 0.25 mm and is made from at least one first layer and at least one second layer of porous polytetrafluoroethylene film, wherein the fibrils of the first and second layers are oriented substantially perpendicular to each other. Preferably the fibrils of the at least one first layer are oriented substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the tube and the fibrils of the at least one second layer of porous polytetrafluoroethylene film are oriented substantially circumferential to the tube. The first and second layers may be inner and outer layers respectively, or alternatively their relationship may be reversed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Assignee: W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: Carey V. Campbell, James D. Lewis, David J. Myers
  • Patent number: 6159331
    Abstract: A bridging agent for improving the bond between incompatible component layers of laminates comprising one or more N-substituted melamine compounds. The bridging agent is comprised of an N-substituted melamine, an N-substituted melamine formaldehyde resin, a hybrid N-substituted melamine resin, or mixtures of these resins. The bridging agent improves bonding between laminate layers known not to bond well together such as between a styrenated polyester top coat and a melamine impregnating resin. As a result of improving the bond between the incompatible component layers, the bridging agent improves the blister resistance and cove forming characteristics of the laminate. The bridging agent can be used to improve bonding both with and without an overlay paper layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Assignee: Formica Corporation
    Inventor: Ying-Cheng Chou
  • Patent number: 6117554
    Abstract: Organic inherently conductive polymers, such as those based on polyaniline, polypyrrole and polythiophene, are sequentially formed in-situ onto polymeric surfaces that are chemically functionalized to molecularly bond the conductive polymers to the substrates. The polymeric substrate is preferably a preshaped or preformed thermoplastic film, fabric, or tube, although other forms of thermoplastic and thermoset polymers can be used as the substrates for functionalization using, most preferably, phosphonylation-based processes followed by exposure to an oxidatively polymerizable compound capable of forming an electrically conductive polymer. It has been found that the degree of electrical conductivity may be modulated by bonding further electrically conductive layers to the article. That is, each underlying conductive layer is functionalized prior to bonding of a subsequent conductive layer thereto until the degree of conductivity is achieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2000
    Assignee: Poly-Med, Inc.
    Inventors: Shalaby W. Shalaby, Jacqueline M. Allan
  • Patent number: 6110319
    Abstract: An improved method for achieving enhanced bond strength between components of unvulcanized and at least partially vulcanized rubber the improvement comprising the steps of selecting first and second initially unvulcanized rubber components (10, 12) for the manufacture of a vulcanized rubber article (21); applying an interphase layer (11) of rubber material, essentially devoid of crosslinking agents and containing from about 0.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Assignee: Bridgestone Corporation
    Inventors: Georg G. A. Bohm, James F. Cetnar
  • Patent number: 6074755
    Abstract: A laminate is prepared that can be further treated comparatively soon after its preparation, the process comprising that a first solid film is applied with a fluid adhesive layer that cures influenced by a catalyst, whereupon a secondary solid or fluid film consisting totally or partially of plastic material, is brought into contact herewith, whereby the secondary film contains a catalyst for the curing of the adhesive. The laminate prepared is suitable as packaging material, e.g. for food.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2000
    Assignee: Curex APS
    Inventors: Max Otto Henri Rasmussen, Janne Rasmussen, Peter Max Rasmussen
  • Patent number: 6071577
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for thermally bonding dissimilar polymeric layers on a paper or paperboard substrate whereby the bonding strength between the dissimilar polymeric layers is substantially increased. The method utilizes a resin of the structureA--B--A'wherein each of A and A' is selected from a hydrocarbonous material which is melt compatible with one of the polymeric layers and B is a hydrocarbonous material having characteristics compatible with the other polymeric layer in order to modify the dissimilar polymeric materials in such a manner that there is an increased thermal bonding strength between the dissimilar polymeric materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2000
    Assignee: Arizona Chemical Company
    Inventor: Eric S. Gardiner
  • Patent number: 6056846
    Abstract: A composite structure is made by first furnishing a skin layer made of a composite material of quartz fibers embedded in an uncured cyanate ester-resin matrix. A transition layer of a first epoxy resin is applied to the skin layer. The skin structure including the skin layer and transition layer is cured at a first temperature and post cured at a second temperature greater than the first temperature. A bonding layer of a second epoxy resin is thereafter applied to the bonding surface of the transition layer, and a substrate is contacted to the exposed face of the bonding layer. The second epoxy resin is cured at a third temperature no greater than the first temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2000
    Assignee: McDonnell Douglas Helicopter Co.
    Inventors: Paul C. Kuhl, Rudy Cesena, Don J. Bridges, Edward S. Harrison, James L. Melquist
  • Patent number: 6015852
    Abstract: This invention provides water-based compositions, particularly coating, ink, and agricultural compositions, manifesting reduced equilibrium and dynamic surface tension by the incorporation of a surface tension reducing amount of certain alkylated polyamine compounds of the structures I and IIRHN--[(CH.sub.2).sub.n NH].sub.p --(CH.sub.2).sub.n NHR Iwhere the R groups are independently hydrogen or C5 to C8 alkyl, provided that at least one R is not hydrogen; n is 2 to 6 and p is 2 to 8, and ##STR1## where the R groups are independently hydrogen or C5 to C8 alkyl, provided at least one R is not hydrogen, m is 2 to 6, t is 0 to 3, q is 0 to 3, and r is 0 to 5.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2000
    Assignee: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin Rodney Lassila, Kristen Elaine Minnich, Richard Van Court Carr
  • Patent number: 6015474
    Abstract: The present invention concerns novel methods for enhancing the mechanical performance of tissue adhesives and sealants which comprises employing a primer molecule in association with a tissue adhesive or sealant, wherein the primer molecule serves to enhance the strength of the interface between the tissue and the adhesive matrix. The primer molecules described herein function to interact with collagen present in the tissue, thereby altering its characteristics to make it more amenable to bonding with the adhesive matrix. Primer molecules may be applied to the tissue independently from the tissue adhesive or sealant or may be mixed with the tissue adhesive or sealant prior to application to the tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2000
    Assignee: Protein Polymer Technologies
    Inventor: Erwin R. Stedronsky
  • Patent number: 6013374
    Abstract: The present invention relates to battery parts comprising molded pieces made of polyolefin resin, whose surface to be bonded are treated so as to have at least one functional group selected from the group consisting of hydroxyl group, carboxyl group, carbonyl group, fluorosulfuryl group, sulfonic group and its metallic bases, said molded pieces being bonded together with reactive hot-melt adhesive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2000
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation
    Inventors: Akira Watanabe, Isao Kaneko, Atsushi Kasai, Kunio Bizen
  • Patent number: 5976650
    Abstract: A method of securing an intraluminal vascular graft within a living body, the intraluminal vascular graft being in the form of a tube of porous expanded polytetrafluoroethylene film wherein the porous polytetrafluoroethylene film has a microstructure containing a multiplicity of fibrils oriented substantially parallel to each other. The tube has a wall thickness of less than about 0.25 mm and is made from at least one first layer and at least one second layer of porous polytetrafluoroethylene film, wherein the fibrils of the first and second layers are oriented substantially perpendicular to each other. Preferably the fibrils of the at least one first layer are oriented substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the tube and the fibrils of the at least one second layer of porous polytetrafluoroethylene film are oriented substantially circumferential to the tube. The first and second layers may be inner and outer layers respectively, or alternatively their relationship may be reversed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Assignee: W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: Carey V. Campbell, James D. Lewis, David J. Myers
  • Patent number: 5976648
    Abstract: Disclosed is a heterogeneous polymer gel comprising at least two gel networks. One embodiment of the present invention concerns a heterogeneous polymer gel comprising a first gel network comprising an environmentally-stable gel and a second gel network comprising an environmentally-unstable gel wherein the first gel network interpenetrates the second gel network. The heterogeneous polymer gel exhibits controlled changes in volume in response to environmental changes in condition, such as of temperature or of chemical composition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Yong Li, Zhibing Hu, Xiaomin Zhang
  • Patent number: 5968654
    Abstract: A method of modifying a polymeric substrate, such as polyethylene terephthalate and nylon 66, imparts water repellency and lubricity, and provides the additional benefit of reducing the soiling of fabrics. The method includes combining the polymeric substrate with a dense or liquified gas, such as carbon dioxide or sulfur hexafluoride, and a fluorinated compound, such as a fluorinated polyether.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1999
    Assignee: University of Massachusetts Lowell
    Inventors: Samuel P. Sawan, W. Dale Spall, Hung Chang Lee
  • Patent number: 5955161
    Abstract: The present invention is a plastic container coated with a multi-layer barrier coating. The multi-layer barrier coating is useful for providing an effective barrier against gas permeability in containers and for extending shelf-life of containers, especially plastic evacuated blood collection devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1999
    Assignee: Becton Dickinson and Company
    Inventor: Yelena G. Tropsha
  • Patent number: 5910371
    Abstract: A composite glass article having a chemically modified ceramic surface whose coefficient of thermal expansion is lower than that of the glass substrate is produced by exposing the glass article maintained at a temperature above its annealing point (typically 500.degree. C.) and below its softening point (soda-lime about 725.degree. C.; borosilicate about 800.degree. C.) to an atmosphere containing prescribed metalorganic compounds. The chemically modified ceramic surface in maintained in compression and is a ceramic consisting of members from a specific group of oxides dependent upon the type of glass comprising the substrate. The method for forming the glass composite article includes applying the metalorganic mixture while the glass substrate is maintained at a temperature above its annealing point (typically 500.degree. C.) and below its softening point (sodalime about 725.degree. C.; borosilicate about 800.degree. C.) to an atmosphere containing prescribed metalorganic compounds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 8, 1999
    Inventors: Josef Francel, Charles P. Duck
  • Patent number: 5906872
    Abstract: An article of footwear comprising relatively elastic and relatively inelastic materials chemically bonded together is disclosed. In one embodiment, the relatively elastic and relatively inelastic materials are arranged in such a fashion to impart flexibility to the article of footwear. In particular, plastic and rubber materials are bonded together to improve the flexibility of an outsole of an article of footwear. The invention also is directed to the fabrication of new or improved devices and elements for use in articles of footwear and their associated methods of construction such as closure mechanisms comprising relatively elastic straps bonded to relatively inelastic anchor portions and vice versa, articulating inelastic and elastic exoskeleton constructions useful in skates and ski boots, and elastic or inelastic eyelets surrounded by inelastic or elastic materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1999
    Assignee: Nike, Inc. and Nike International, Ltd.
    Inventors: Robert M. Lyden, Ross A. McLaughlin, Henry T. Chriss, Calvin M. Buck, IV, Daniel R. Potter, Steven M. Vincent
  • Patent number: 5885753
    Abstract: A self-assembled multilayer and in particular polymeric self-assembled multilayer can be effectively produced from two or more self-assembled monolayers on a substrate where each of the self-assembled monolayers is produced for a block containing a first functional group and a second functional group where the second functional group is reacted with the first functional group. The production of polymerizable, self-assembled mono- and multi-layers from, e.g., blocks containing at least two acetylene groups and/or polymerizable end groups, is also provided. The polymerized mono- or multilayer can be employed in a variety of applications including photolithography.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 23, 1999
    Assignee: The Texas A&M University System
    Inventors: Richard M. Crooks, Taisun Kim, Kwok-Chu Chan, Jonathan K. Schoer
  • Patent number: 5885698
    Abstract: An electrophotographic image-receiving film is disclosed which comprises an transparent support having on one side thereof an image-receiving layer, said support having on the other side thereof a back layer comprising an electro-conductive undercoat layer and an antifriction layer having a reduced coefficient of friction. The electrophotographic image-receiving film has excellent running properties and excellent antiblocking properties.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 23, 1999
    Assignee: Fuji Xerox Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tadashi Takehana, Yoshio Tani, Kiyoshi Hosoi, Katsumi Harada
  • Patent number: 5861237
    Abstract: A photographic element is disclosed, comprising a support having a gelatin undercoat, having provided thereon an acetylcellulose layer containing from 1.0 to 12.0 wt % of a polymer represented by formula (1) and from 5 to 40 wt % of a compound having at least two isocyanate groups, both based on acetylcellulose contained in the acetylcellulose layer. Also disclosed is a diffusion transfer photographic light-sensitive material comprising a photographic element comprising a support having a gelatin undercoat, having provided thereon an acetylcellulose layer containing from 2.0 to 9.0 wt % of a polymer represented by formula (1) and from 5 to 20 wt % of a compound having at least two isocyanate group, both based on acetylcellulose contained in the acetylcellulose layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 19, 1999
    Assignee: Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hideki Takaki
  • Patent number: 5856246
    Abstract: The invention concerns a thin film of a permanent hydrophobic and optionally oleophobic finish for polymer surfaces. The film is formed from at least one layer of a water-soluble polycation and cationic synthetic resin. For further improvement of the oleophobic and permanent hydrophobic properties the film can additionally contain a long-chain surfactant or an alkyl-substituted polyanion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 5, 1999
    Inventors: Richard Witzko, Wolfgang Burger, Gudrun Petzold, Klaus Lunkwitz, Heide-Marie Buchhammer
  • Patent number: 5849415
    Abstract: Organic inherently conductive polymers, such as those based on polyaniline, polypyrrole and polythiophene, are formed in-situ onto polymeric surfaces that are chemically activated to bond ionically the conductive polymers to the substrates. The polymeric substrate is preferably a preshaped or preformed thermoplastic film, fabric, or tube, although other forms of thermoplastic and thermoset polymers can be used as the substrates for pretreatment using, most preferably, phosphonylation-based processes followed by exposure to an oxidatively polymerizable compound capable of forming an electrically conductive polymer. The resultant conductive surface imparts unique properties to the substrates and allows their use in antistatic clothing, surface conducting films for electronic components and the like, and electromagnetic interference shielding. In an alternative embodiment, metals such as gold or platinum are bonded to the chemically interactive surface of a preshaped thermoplastic or thermoset article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1998
    Assignee: Clemson University
    Inventors: Shalaby W. Shalaby, Richard V. Gregory, Jacqueline M. Allan
  • Patent number: 5830577
    Abstract: The lubricant layer according to the present invention is used in a thin film magnetic recording medium in which a solid surface sliding at a high speed is required to retain its lubricating performance and abrasion resistance for a long period of time, comprising a host-guest complex composed of a lubricant molecule as a guest molecule and a multidentate ligand as a host compound to form the complex with the guest molecule.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation
    Inventors: Hideki Murayama, Keiichiro Sano, Kazuhiko Sawada, Fumiaki Yokoyama, Haruhiko Ikeuchi, Yutaka Teranishi
  • Patent number: 5827650
    Abstract: A new and improved polymeric membrane for use in biological assays is provided. A blotting assay employing 1,2-dioxetanes as a source of chemiluminescent employs, as an improved membrane, a polymer comprised of at least one monomer of the formula: ##STR1## The membranes reduce background signal, improve sensitivity and reliability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 27, 1998
  • Patent number: 5795423
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a fiber reinforced article. A first fiber reinforcing layer is impregnated with an initiator. A second fiber reinforcing layer is impregnated with a cyclic resin. The first and second reinforcing layers are brought into contact with one another. Heat is applied to the first and second reinforcing layers and causing the initiator to react with the cyclic resin. The initiator causes the ring-like structure on the cyclic resin to open. The open rings polymerize, crystallize and often cross-link with one another. The polymerization and cross-linking reaction forms a solid polymer about the first and second reinforcement layers. The polymer solidifies and forms an integral fiber reinforced article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1998
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Carl Frederick Johnson
  • Patent number: 5786057
    Abstract: An article of footwear comprising relatively elastic and relatively inelastic materials chemically bonded together is disclosed. In one embodiment, the relatively elastic and relatively inelastic materials are arranged in such a fashion to impart flexibility to the article of footwear. In particular, plastic and rubber materials are bonded together to improve the flexibility of an outsole of an article of footwear. The invention also is directed to the fabrication of new or improved devices and elements for use in articles of footwear and their associated methods of construction such as closure mechanisms comprising relatively elastic straps bonded to relatively inelastic anchor portions and vice versa, articulating inelastic and elastic exoskeleton constructions useful in skates and ski boots, and elastic or inelastic eyelets surrounded by inelastic or elastic materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1998
    Assignee: Nike, Inc. & Nike International, Ltd.
    Inventors: Robert M. Lyden, Ross A. McLaughlin, Henry T. Chriss, Calvin M. Buck, IV, Daniel R. Potter, Steven M. Vincent
  • Patent number: 5780148
    Abstract: The invention relates to a hydrophilic thin film and a method of manufacturing the same in which the hydrophilic thin film is formed by incorporating or fixing molecules comprising hydrophilic groups to a chemically adsorbed film on a substrate surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1998
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tadashi Ohtake, Norihisa Mino, Kazufumi Ogawa
  • Patent number: 5756189
    Abstract: A console lid comprises a base having a predetermined rigidity and a skin layer member having an inner layer and an outer layer, which covers the base. A cushioning layer made of foamed polyurethane having a thickness that decreases toward the ends thereof is provided between the top of the base and the skin layer member. The skin layer member which has been trimmed is positioned in a mold and the cushioning layer is positioned so that it is in contact with the skin layer member. A plasticized resin is charged into a mold cavity from a gate to form a base. Excellent soft touch and feel is provided by the resulting composite structure since the cushioning layer, made of a soft material, is provided between the base and the skin layer member in a position where such a soft touch or cushioning is most desirable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1998
    Assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Akiyoshi Nagano, Kenichi Furuta, Katsuhiro Katagiri, Tetsuya Fujii, Hiroshi Suyama
  • Patent number: 5716709
    Abstract: A two-step adsorption process for producing ordered organic/inorganic multilayer structures is provided. Multilayered films are formed on metallic and nonmetallic substrates by alternate adsorption of a cationic polyelectrolyte and anionic sheets of a silicate clay. The two-step adsorption process is not only fast but allows also for preparation of multilayer elements of thicknesses greater than about 2200 Angstroms on silicon, and greater than about 1500 Angstroms on gold, silver, and copper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 10, 1998
    Assignee: Competitive Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory S. Ferguson, Elaine R. Kleinfeld
  • Patent number: 5705275
    Abstract: Disclosed is a novel thermosetting resin composition suitable for the preparation of an integrally molded two-parts composite body consisting of a first part of a cured silicone rubber and a second part of a cured thermosetting resin without intervention of an adhesive layer at the interface. The thermosetting resin composition comprises:(a) 100 parts by weight of an unsaturated polyester resin;(b) from 20 to 50 parts by weight of an ethylenically unsaturated polymerizable compound such as diallyl phthalate;(c) from 5 to 30 parts by weight of an epoxy resin;(d) from 2 to 20 parts by weight of a melamine resin;(e) from 0.1 to 2 parts by weight of a radical-reactive curing agent which is an organic peroxide; and(f) from 0.1 to 2 parts by weight of an acidic catalyst such as aromatic sulfonic acid derivatives.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 6, 1998
    Assignee: Shin-Etsu Polymer Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Sadao Nakano, Susumu Iwama, Mikio Kiyosawa
  • Patent number: 5700559
    Abstract: A hydrophilic article for use in aqueous environments, including a substrate, an ionic polymeric layer on said substrate, and a disordered polyelectrolyte coating ionically bonded to said polymeric layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 23, 1997
    Assignee: Advanced Surface Technology
    Inventors: Min-Shyan Sheu, Ih-Houng Loh