Abstract: A noise-reducing foam member for prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation without degradation consists essentially of a major proportion of a room-temperature silicone rubber foaming material and minor proportions of a room-temperature foaming curing agent and at least two and preferably three ultraviolet stabilizing materials selected from the group consisting of carbon black, cerium oxide, 2(2'-hydroxy-3',5'-di-tert-amylphenyl) benzotriazole and zinc oxide.The foam member is made by mixing together suitable quantities of the silicone rubber foaming material, the ultraviolet stabilizing materials and the curing agent. The mixture is then cured to provide the foam member.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for molding a foamed article comprising mixing a polyphenylene sulfide resin with about 0.1 to 10% of an oligomeric sulfone carbonate as a foaming agent and with 0.1 to 2% of a basic catalyst at a temperature of about 150.degree. to 180.degree. C. and then heating the resulting mixture at a temperature of 280.degree.-350.degree. C. to affect a reaction mixture and introducing the reaction mixture into a suitable mold for producing a foamed article.

Abstract: Cured foams with a high degree of closed cellular structure, good stability under prolonged heat exposure and good compressive strength can be produced from a hot-foamable, thermosetting epoxy resin mixture containing (a) an epoxy resin or a mixture of epoxy resins with an average epoxide content of 4.4 to 5.0 equivalents/kg and an average epoxide functionality of more than 2.0, (b) a novolak with a hydroxyl equivalent weight of 90 to 120, 0.8 to 0.95 hydroxyl equivalents of component (b) being present in the epoxy resin mixture per 1 epoxide equivalent of component (a), (c) 1.0 to 1% by weight, based on the amount of components (a) and (b), of a curing accelerator, (d) 0.5 to 10% by weight, based on the amount of components (a) and (b), of a blowing agent which splits off nitrogen above 100.degree. C. with decomposition, (e) 0.3 to 1% by weight, based on the total amount of the epoxy resin mixture, of an emulsifier, and if appropriate (f) foam modifiers.

Abstract: An expandable composition for non-crosslinked foam comprising:(a) 80 to 99% by weight of a 1-butene homopolymer,(b) 20 to 1% by weight of an ethylene polymer, and(c) a blowing agent,the percentages being based on the total weight of the 1-butene homopolymer and the ethylene polymer.

Abstract: A process for forming hollow microspheres containing carbon or a polymer which is a carbon precursor. The process comprises forming a solution in a liquid solvent of a polymer having the following properties (a) a molecular weight of at least 10,000 and a long chain structure; (b) an ability to be coagulated by or precipitated from the solution by a non-solvent for the polymer; (c) an ability to form a continuous stretchable film when coagulated or precipitated from solution; (d) a chemical structure which is infusible or capable of being rendered infusible, and (e) a high carbon yield of at least 30% by weight upon being carbonized in a non-reactive atmosphere. An insoluble particulate blowing agent is incorporated into the solution and the solution is then divided into droplets and the droplets are introduced into a liquid bath containing a suitable non-solvent for the polymer.

Abstract: A process for preparing assymetric polyvinylidene fluoride microporous membranes using novel pore forming agents of an ammonium salt which is a non-solvent for the polymeric casting solution; such agents for example being ammonium hydroxide, ammonium chloride and the like.

Abstract: A smoke suppressant for reducing smoke emission when a flammable organic material is heated above its decomposition temperature or ignited comprises a liquid heterocyclic polysulphide compound having the formulaR--S.sub.x --Z--S.sub.x' --R' (I)where R is an organic group containing 1 to 12 carbon atoms, R' is hydrogen or an organic group containing 1 to 12 carbon atoms, x is at least 2, x' is 1 or more when R' is hydrogen and is at least 2 when R' is an organic group and Z is a divalent radical derived from a heterocyclic compound, preferably a sulphur-containing heterocyclic compound such as thiadiazole. The compound (I) may contain dissolved or dispersed elemental sulphur. The smoke suppressant is particularly suitable for use in polyurethane foams.

Abstract: This invention relates to foamable melt processible fluoropolymer resins containing boron nitride and one or more of a class of inorganic salts which significantly enhance foam nucleation (as evidenced by small foam cell size).

Abstract: An expandable ethylenic or styrenic polymer composition for production of lightly crosslinked foamed polymers and a process for controlling the degree of crosslinking of the polymer prior to extrusion foaming. The control is obtained by use of (a) a reversible gas-yielding crosslinking reaction which is delayed in the foam extrusion line in the presence of gaseous products (alcohols) and (b) added amounts of an alcohol such as an aliphatic alcohol. Suitable crosslinking agents include silanes, azido functional silanes, titanates, and amino compounds.

Abstract: The invention is a process for making a high surface area, self-supporting catalyst suitable for use as an acid catalyst comprising:(a) at least partially polymerizing a perfluorinated monomer containing ion exchange groups convertible to an acid or salt form in a medium containing a gas-forming ingredient(s) which is present during polymerization and serves a polymerization enhancement purpose during polymerization; wherein the said gas-forming ingredient(s) is a material that will convert into a gaseous state and expand when heated; and(b) heating the polymer to a temperature sufficient to soften the polymer and sufficient to convert at least a portion of the gas-forming ingredient(s) into a gaseous state while the polymer is still in contact with at least a portion of the gas-forming ingredient(s), thereby converting the gas-forming ingredient(s) into a gas which expands the polymer and causes the formation of open and closed pores within the polymer.

Abstract: The invention relates to a new blowing agent combination based on azodicarbonamide, production thereof and use thereof for foaming polymers.

Abstract: An expandable ethylenic or styrenic polymer composition for production of lightly crosslinked foamed polymers and a process for controlling the degree of crosslinking of the polymer prior to extrusion foaming. The control is obtained by use of (a) a reversible gas-yielding crosslinking reaction which is delayed in the foam extrusion line in the presence of gaseous products (alcohols) and (b) added amounts of an alcohol such as an aliphatic alcohol. Suitable crosslinking agents include silanes, azido functional silanes, titanates, and amino compounds.

Abstract: A gas-releasing composition of a t-alkylhydrazinium salt and/or a carbonylhydrazine and at least one compound selected from free radical forming sources, metal oxides, and sulfur and/or sulfur donor compounds wherein when sulfur and/or a sulfur donor compound is used, the composition will also contain one or more members selected from sulfur accelerators, metal oxides, and amino-alcohols. This novel gas-releasing composition permits the selectively tailoring of the gas evolution of a system in order to meet a wide range of specific application areas polymer characteristics and conditions over a wide temperature range.

Abstract: Foamable and foamed polyvinlyidene fluoride materials prepared by compounding the PVDF with a suitable nucleating agent of discreet insoluble particles, a blowing agent having an activation temperature above the melting point of the PVDF, and a dispersing aid to provide a substantially homogeneous powdered mixture that is then melt compounded with high shear melt blending means and then extruded and quenched to provide the foamable polyvinylidene fluoride material which can then be extruded as an insulating material on wire at a temperature sufficiently high to activate the blowing agent.

Abstract: A composition comprising a dry blend mixture of a porous thermoplastic resin powder and from 1 to 80 wt. % of a microbiocide based upon the weight of the composition. The microbiocide is present in the mixture at a concentration of at least about 20 times greater than the normal upper usage concentration of the microbiocide, and is held within the pores of the thermoplastic powder.The resulting concentrate is a substantially non-dusting, free-flowing powder which is readily incorporated into a second thermoplastic resin to produce a resulting article having the appropriate level of microbiocide.

Abstract: The present invention is a process for the preparation of polybenzimidazole foams. Polybenzimidazoles containing 10 to 30 percent by weight residual solvent can be heated at a temperature of about 350.degree. C. to about 600.degree. C. to produce three dimensional foamed articles.

Abstract: An expandable molding composition for the production of a cross-linked foam material, and a process for the manufacture of the foam from a mixture of polyolefin and a selected, partially crystalline ethylene-propylene terpolymer, a blowing agent, and optionally a crosslinking agent are disclosed.

Abstract: A hot applicable, heat expandable, thermosetting sealing composition particularly adapted for use in the automotive industry is disclosed. Such a sealant comprises a styrene-butadiene rubber mixed with conventional thermoplastic resin blowing agents, vulcanizing agent, oils and thickening agents wherein the addition of an activator selected from the family of sulfonamide materials results in a sealer which can be hot applied without causing it to prematurely blow or cross-link yet remain affixed to the component until such time as it is desired to blow and cure the sealant.

Abstract: Foamable and foamed polyvinylidene fluoride materials prepared by compounding the PVDF with a suitable nucleating agent of discreet insoluble particles, a blowing agent having an activation temperature above the melting point of the PVDF, and a dispersing aid to provide a substantially homogeneous powdered mixture that is then melt compounded with high shear melt blending means and the extruded and quenched to provide the foamable polyvinylidene fluoride material which can then be extruded as an insulating material on wire at a temperature sufficiently high to activate the blowing agent.

Abstract: Resilient foams based on melamine resins are prepared by foaming an aqueous solution which contains a melamine/formaldehyde precondensate, an emulsifier, a volatile blowing agent and a curing agent and then curing the foam. In this process, from 0.2 to 4% by weight of an alkali metal, alkaline earth metal or aluminum salt of an organic, preferably polybasic acid, of a polyphosphoric acid or of a boron acid are added to the aqueous solution.

Abstract: A porous and transparent hydrated gel is prepared from a poly(vinyl alcohol) solution in a mixed solvent consisting of water and an water-miscible organic solvent. Upon cooling the poly(vinyl alcohol) solution below room temperature, a gel is formed as a consequence of crystallization of poly(vinyl alcohol) molecules. Exchange of the organic solvent included in the gel with water produces a hydrated gel of poly(vinyl alcohol) which has a high tensile strength, a high water content, and a high light transmittance.

Abstract: A composition comprising a dry blend mixture of a porous thermoplastic resin powder and from 1 to 80 wt. % of a microbiocide based upon the weight of the composition. The microbiocide is present in the mixture at a concentration of at least about 20 times greater than the normal upper usage concentration of the microbiocide, and is held within the pores of the thermoplastic powder.The resulting concentrate is a substantially non-dusting, free-flowing powder which is readily incorporated into a second thermoplastic resin to produce a resulting article having the appropriate level of microbiocide.

Abstract: A composition comprising a dry blend mixture of a porous thermoplastic resin powder and from 1 to 80 wt. % of a microbiocide based upon the weight of the composition. The microbiocide is present in the mixture at a concentration of at least about 20 times greater than the normal upper usage concentration of the microbiocide, and is held within the pores of the thermoplastic powder.The resulting concentrate is a substantially non-dusting, free-flowing powder which is readily incorporated into a second thermoplastic resin to produce a resulting article having the appropriate level of microbiocide.

Abstract: Olefin polymer foams having improved cell structures and relatively smooth outer surfaces produced by foaming a composition containing a thermoplastic olefin polymer, p,p'-oxybis-benzene sulfonyl hydrazide, a monomeric acrylate ester of a polyhydric compound and an organic peroxide. These foams can be formed into shaped articles of desired configuration by conventional thermoforming molding techniques.

Abstract: Foamable and foamed polyvinlyidene fluoride materials prepared by compounding the PVDF with a suitable nucleating agent of discreet insoluble particles, a blowing agent having an activation temperature above the melting point of the PVDF, and a dispersing aid to provide a substantially homogeneous powdered mixture that is then melt compounded with high shear melt blending means and then extruded and quenched to provide the foamable polyvinlyidene fluoride material which can then be extruded as an insulating material on wire at a temperature sufficiently high to activate the blowing agent.

Abstract: Disclosed is a composition for formation of a cured resin foam, which comprises (A) a curable resin composition comprising an unsaturated polyester prepolymer and an ethylenically unsaturated monomer, (B) an inorganic powder composed of a carbonate and/or bicarbonate, (C) an aqueous solution of a water-soluble inorganic compound containing a neutralizable acid radical and being capable of forming a colloidal oxide or hydroxide and being gelled by neutralization or an acidic aqueous sol of an inorganic oxide or hydroxide containing a neutralizable acid radical and being capable of being gelled by neutralization, and (D) a substantially water-insoluble surface active agent having a W/O type emulsion-forming capacity, wherein an emulsion structure having a continuous phase of the component (A) and a dispersed particle phase of the component (C) is formed.

Abstract: Mixture consisting of an organo-tin alcoholate of the formula (I) ##STR1## and of an organo-tin mercaptide of the formula (II) or (III) ##STR2## which mixture additionally contains an organo-tin carboxylate of the formula (IV) or (V) ##STR3## in which formulae R.sup.1 is C.sub.1 -C.sub.12 alkyl, R.sup.2 is C.sub.10 -C.sub.30 alkyl, phenyl which is substituted by one or two C.sub.8 -C.sub.12 alkyl groups, R.sup.3 has the meaning assigned to R.sup.2 or is the --Sn(OR.sup.2)(R.sup.1).sub.2 group, wherein R.sup.1 and R.sup.2 are as defined above, X is sulfur or oxygen, R.sup.4 is the --S--CH.sub.2 CH.sub.2 --COOR.sup.5 or --X--Sn(R.sup.1).sub.n (S--CH.sub.2 CH.sub.2 --COOR.sup.5).sub.3-n group, in which R.sup.1 and X are as defined above, R.sup.5 is C.sub.8 -C.sub.14 alkyl, n is 1 or 2, and R.sup.6 is C.sub.10 -C.sub.30 alkyl, the weight ratio of I:II or I:III being in the range from 9:1 to 1:9. These mixtures are stabilizers for chlorinated polymers and also activators for the manufacture of foamed plastics.

Abstract: Crosslinked elastomeric and/or thermoplastic closed-cell foams having low densities are prepared from an admixture which comprises a crosslinkable thermoplastic and/or elastomeric polymer, a free radical initiator which is activated at temperatures from about 50.degree. C. to about 350.degree. C., and a t-alkylhydrazinium salt or a carbonylhydrazine.

Abstract: A gas-releasing composition of a t-alkylhydrazinium salt and/or a carbonylhydrazine and at least one compound selected from free radical forming sources, metal oxides, and sulfur and/or sulfur donor compounds wherein when sulfur and/or a sulfur donor compound is used, the composition will also contain one or more members selected from sulfur accelerators, metal oxides, and amino-alcohols. This novel gas-releasing composition permits the selectively tailoring of the gas evolution of a system in order to meet a wide range of specific application areas polymer characteristics and conditions over a wide temperature range.

Abstract: The present invention is a process for the preparation of novel polybenzimidazole foams. The foams exhibit a closed cellular structure and are prepared by forming a polybenzimidazole solution, adding sulfuric acid to the polybenzimidazole solution, removing the solvent, and heat treating the polybenzimidazole at a temperature of about 350.degree. to 600.degree. C.

Abstract: Intumescent coatings which form a thick, uniform, fine celled, low density foam upon exposure to a high intensity heat flux or flame are disclosed, the invention coatings comprise phenolic resin prepolymer containing a blowing agent and a nucleating agent; in the preferred embodiments the coatings also contains a silicone surfactant, the coatings are useful in thermal and fire protection systems.

Abstract: A method for producing foam polyolefin products which are light-stable and weather-resistant are obtained by the combined use of the following stabilizers:(a) phenolic antioxidants,(b) substituted benzophenones and/or substituted benzotriazoles, and(c) sterically hindered amines.

Abstract: Closed-cell crosslinked sponges of varying densities are prepared from an admixture of a vulcanizable elastomer, vulcanizing ingredients selected from sulfur or sulfur donor compounds together with metal oxides and/or sulfur vulcanization accelerators and a t-alkylhydrazinium salt and/or carbonylhydrazine. The crosslinked sponges have uniform cellular structures and are easily prepared with the desired density.

Abstract: A blend of an E/X/Y copolymer, where E is ethylene, X is a vinyl ester, and Y is carbon monoxide or sulfur dioxide, with a polymer of vinyl halide or vinylidene halide is foamed and cured by dispersing in the blend a blowing agent and sulfur or a sulfur-releasing agent and heating the blend containing those additives at 100.degree.-180.degree. C. for a sufficient time to produce curing and foaming. This process can be run either continuously or batchwise in conventional equipment under conventional conditions in the presence of air. Plasticizers and other materials which often interfere with peroxide cures can be present in the process of this invention. The foamed and cured products have excellent physical properties and ozone resistance.

Abstract: A blend of an E/X/Y copolymer, where E is ethylene, X is a vinyl ester, and Y is carbon monoxide or sulfur dioxide, with a polymer of vinyl halide or vinylidene halide is foamed and cured by dispersing in the blend a blowing agent and sulfur or a sulfur-releasing agent and heating the blend containing those additives at 100.degree.-180.degree. C. for a sufficient time to produce curing and foaming. This process can be run either continuously or batchwise in conventional equipment under conventional conditions in the presence of air. Plasticizers and other materials which often interfere with peroxide cures can be present in the process of this invention. The foamed and cured products have excellent physical properties and ozone resistance.

Abstract: A backing material consisting essentially of a two part phthalallic polyester resin including an expansion agent and a filler in an amount to offset shrinking during curing.

Abstract: Foamed polyphosphazene articles having consistent appearance and physical properties are made by masticating a mixture of high molecular weight linear polyphosphazene, a curing agent (e.g., sulfur), an accelerator, a blowing agent and optionally fillers, processing aids and the like until the temperature of the composition rises to a pre-determined level. Mixing is stopped and the composition is shaped, heated to pre-cure and then heated to activate the blowing agent and complete the cure.

Abstract: Process for compounding polyphosphazene gum by (a) mixing a composition comprising a curable polyphosphazene gum, filler, plasticizer and other conventional components but without any curing agent to form a non-curing masterbatch, (b) mixing a composition comprising a polyphosphazene gum and an excess amount of curing agent, at least 10 times that required to cure the phosphazene gum in this mixture and optionally containing other conventional components to form a concentrate and (c) blending the non-curing masterbatch from (a) with sufficient concentrate from (b) to provide an amount of curing agent sufficient to cure the entire resultant mixture.

Abstract: The use of arylsulphonyl hydrazones corresponding to the following general formula:Ar (SO.sub.2 --NH--N.dbd.R).sub.x (I)whereinAr represents a benzene, naphthalene, diphenyl, diphenyl ether, diphenyl sulphone or diphenylene oxide radical which may be substituted by methyl and/or chlorine;R represents the radical of an aldehyde or ketone without the carbonyl oxygen atom; andx represents 1 or 2;as blowing agents for the production of cellular or porous plastics articles.

Abstract: Particulate polystyrene containing blowing agent and having improved expandability is based on polystyrene having a weight-average mean molecular weight of not more than from 130,000 to 180,000 and a molecular weight distribution curve in which the high molecular weight flank drops steeply. The expandable polystyrene particles are produced by polymerizing styrene in aqueous suspension in the presence of blowing agents and of chain transfer agents or styrene oligomers.

Abstract: Composition which comprises a mixture of (A) a polydiorganosiloxane having a viscosity of from 200 to 100,000 cP at 25.degree. C. and having at least two silicon-bonded vinyl groups, (B) an organohydrogensiloxane, (C) a platinum catalyst, (D) a substance which inhibits the reaction between (A) and (B) in the presence of (C) e.g. an acetylenic alcohol, and (E) a blowing agent selected from p,p'-oxybis(benzenesulphonylhydrazide) and dinitrosopentamethylene tetramine.The composition can be converted by heat into an elastomeric sponge and is useful for the production of articles such as seat cushions, heat and sound insulation and shock absorbers.

Abstract: A blowing agent composition is provided comprising an azodicarbonamid; zinc oxide, zinc carbonate or a zinc salt of C.sub.1 -C.sub.4 organic acid; and an aromatic sulfinic acid or a metal salt of an aromatic sulfinic acid. For each hundred parts by weight of the azodicarbonamid, the zinc oxide, zinc carbonate or zinc salt is 0.25-25 parts by weight and the aromatic sulfinic acid or metal salt is from 1-2000 parts by weight for each 100 parts of the zinc oxide, zinc carbonate or zinc salt. The total weight of the zinc oxide, zinc carbonate or zinc salt plus the aromatic sulfinic acid or metal salt is from 20-25 parts by weight.

Abstract: Compatible blends of an ethylene/methacrylic or ethylene/acrylic acid dipolymer or a terpolymer with n-butyl or isobutyl acrylate with an ethylene/X/Y terpolymer, where X is vinyl acetate or an alkyl acrylate and Y is CO or SO.sub.2, with an elastomer, a blowing agent, and a curing agent can be readily formed into stiff foamed articles having very good physical properties, especially split tear and tensile strength. The foamed articles are useful, among others, in such applications as footwear, insulation, shock absorbance, floatation devices, seals and, gaskets.

Abstract: A method of preparing a foamable polyvinyl system resin composition which renders a non-flammable, high strength to weight ratio foam product comprises, reacting at least 0.05 parts by weight of an organic radical initiator per 1 part by weight of polyvinyl system resin with the components consisting essentially of (a) at least one polyvinyl system resin (b) 2-100 parts by weight of at least one inorganic filler per 1 part by weight of polyvinyl system resin (c) an effective amount of at least one blowing agent.

Abstract: A blowing agent composition is provided comprising an azodicarbonamid; zinc oxide, zinc carbonate or a zinc salt of C.sub.1 -C.sub.4 organic acid; and an aromatic sulfinic acid or a metal salt of an aromatic sulfinic acid. For each hundred parts by weight of the azodicarbonamid, the zinc oxide, zinc carbonate or zinc salt is 0.24-25 parts by weight and the aromatic sulfinic acid or metal salt is from 1-2000 parts by weight for each 100 parts of the zinc oxide, zinc carbonate or zinc salt. The total weight of the zinc oxide, zinc carbonate or zinc salt plus the aromatic sulfinic acid or metal salt is from 20-25 parts by weight.

Abstract: A molded object having a sponge-like interior surrounded by a skin, molding composition from which it is produced, and the method for producing the article. Copolymers of vinyl-substituted aromatic compounds containing from 8-18 carbon atoms copolymerized with conjugated diene having from 4-12 carbon atoms and polymer chosen from among solid resinous polymers of vinyl-substituted aromatic compounds present in amounts ranging from about 10 to about 75 parts by weight per 100 parts by weight of the copolymer and solid resinous copolymers of ethylene present in an amount of about 5 to about 50 parts by weight per 100 parts by weight of the copolymer are blended with a sufficient amount of polarizing agent to achieve rapid heating through response to microwave treatment, blowing agent in an amount sufficient to provide a sponge-like, rubbery porosity to an article molded therefrom, and, optionally, cellular control agent.

Abstract: Alkali metal polyester silicate resinous products are produced by mixing a polyhydroxy organic compound, an alkali metal silicate and a polycarboxylic acid, then heating the mixture to a temperature between the melting point of the polycarboxylic acid and the boiling temperature of the polyol while agitating until the reaction is complete.

Abstract: A blowing agent composition is provided comprising an azodicarbonamid; zinc oxide, zinc carbonate or a zinc salt of C.sub.1 -C.sub.4 organic acid; and an aromatic sulfinic acid or a metal salt of an aromatic sulfinic acid. For each hundred parts by weight of the azodicarbonamid, the zinc oxide, zinc carbonate or zinc salt is 0.25-25 parts by weight and the aromatic sulfinic acid or metal salt is from 1-2000 parts by weight for each 100 parts of the zinc oxide, zinc carbonate or zinc salt. The total weight of the zinc oxide, zinc carbonate or zinc salt plus the aromatic sulfinic acid or metal salt is from 20-25 parts by weight.

Abstract: A process for preparing an open-cell structure from a vinyl chloride resin. The process includes mixing a vinyl chloride resin, stabilizer, plasticizer, surface active agent, azodicarbonamide and 4,4'-oxybisbenzenesulfonyl hydrazide to form a vinyl chloride resin paste. The vinyl chloride resin paste of step (a) is rendered alkaline, and mixed to form a uniformly-mixed paste. The paste is permitted to expand, and then heated to cause gelation.

Abstract: Particulate absorbents of a water-insoluble water-swellable polymer having a gel capacity of at least 10 are immobilized with a composition comprising the absorbent in a liquid polyhydroxy organic compound. The composition may be employed by applying to an appropriate surface and subjecting the liquid film to solidifying conditions. The solidified film product has high absorptive capacity and is free of undesirable movement when positioned in absorbent articles.A foam product having both absorptive and cushioning properties is prepared from a solid, particulate, water-insoluble, water-swellable polymer having a gel capacity of at least 10, a solid, particulate blowing agent, and a liquid polyhydroxy organic compound. Foamable compositions and articles employing the foam are also described.