Abstract: The rheological properties of latexes and latex paint formulations thickened with non-urethane thickeners according to the invention are modified by adding to the latex or latex paint formulation an amount of a nonionic surfactant having an HLB value of from 4 to about 20 sufficient to decrease the low shear viscosity of the thickened latex without a corresponding reduction in the high shear viscosity.

Abstract: Elastomer films in which active chemical substances, such as corrosion inhibitors, lubricants or biocides for medical use are uniformly dispersed in the form of gel inclusions, processes for preparation and applications of these films.The elastomer film contains at least one active chemical substance in the form of a phase which is dispersed in the elastomer, wherein the disperse phase is in the form of a gel, reversible or irreversible, as a function of temperature, and filled with an active chemical substance.

Abstract: The aqueous hair fixing composition contains 0.1 to 30 percent by weight of at least one thickener, e.g. acrylic acid polymer; 0.1 to 25 percent by weight of a film-forming polymer ingredient which consists of vinyl acetate/crotonic acid copolymer, acrylic acid/acrylamide copolymer and/or methyl vinyl ether/maleic anhydride copolymer and 45 to 99.8 percent by weight water. This aqueous hair fixing composition necessarily contains no organic solvents, no cationic surfactants and no cationic polymers and a physiologically acceptable acid or base is added to it to adjust its pH so that the film-forming polymer ingredient is at least partially precipitated.

Abstract: An admixture for decreasing the water demand of cementitious compositions such as concrete consists of(a) from 75-25% by weight of a water-reducing agent whose major component is a polycarboxylate; and(b) from 25-75% by weight of at least one saccharide component selected from hydrogenated saccharides and polyhydric alcohol adducts of saccharides.The saccaride component is preferably a hydrogenated polysaccharide with a molecular weight distribution as follows:(i) 70-30% by weight (on total weight of hydrogenated saccharides) have molecular weights in the range 180-300;(ii) 30-70% by weight have molecular weights of from 300 up to 4,000; and(iii) 30% by weight maximum have molecular weights of 4,000 and over.

Abstract: Compositions of the invention include a hydroxy-functional polyester and a natural polymer. Articles can be made from such a composition so as to have sufficiently strong tensile strengths as to form disposable utensils or to have sufficient stretchability so as to form thin wrap films. However, the compositions are more environmentally friendly than commodity plastics such as polyethylene or polystyrene. Granular starches derived from a grain, a root, a legume, or mixtures thereof, are particularly preferred as the natural polymers for inclusion in the compositions.

Abstract: A polymer composition, in particular an active substance-containing depot material composition or an absorbent composition are disclosed which substantially consist of a water-soluble and/or water-swellable polymer based on polysaccharides as the main component, and a water-swellable, synthetic polymer as further component, used as polymeric components, and of a matrix material for the prevention of separation and gel blocking, an ionic or covalent cross-linking agent, as well as of an anti-blocking agent. Additionally their production and use as well as (animal) hygiene items and chemico-technical products are disclosed which comprise these polymer compositions, these active-substance-containing depot material compositions, or the absorbent compositions.

Abstract: A pressure sensitive adhesive(PSA) composition includes a latex system of an aqueous polymer dispersion derived from ethylenically-unsaturated monomers in the presence of a water soluble protective colloid. The PSA compositions are used in the manufacture of a variety of articles that are intended to be easily attachable to another substrate by the application of pressure alone.

Abstract: A stable liquid suspension composition comprising a liquid carrier, a solid fatty acid or a salt thereof, and a solid particulate is disclosed wherein said liquid carrier is selected from the group consisting of oils, olefins, terpenes, glycols, esters, ethers, alcohols, and combinations of any two or more thereof and said liquid carrier, solid fatty acid or salt thereof, and solid particulate are each present in said composition in a stabilizing amount sufficient to produce a stable liquid suspension. Also disclosed is a stable liquid composition comprising a liquid carrier, an oil-soluble polymer, and a solid particulate wherein said liquid carrier is selected from the group consisting of liquid alkenes, terpenes, esters, and combinations of any two or more thereof and said liquid carrier, oil-soluble polymer, and solid particulate are each present in said composition in a stabilizing amount sufficient to effect the formation of a stable liquid suspension.

Abstract: An emulsion polymer is disclosed by the present invention. In particular, the emulsion polymer comprises a protective colloid and a functionalized silane component which is of the formula: ##STR1## wherein R" is C.sub.1 -C.sub.5 alkyl, R' is C.sub.1 -C.sub.5 alkyl, R is SH, CH.sub.2 .dbd.CH--, CH.sub.2 .dbd.C(CH.sub.3)--C(O)O--, CH.sub.2 .dbd.CH--C(O)O--, and ##STR2## n is 1-10, and m is 2 or 3.

Abstract: A composition for retaining dentures in the mouth of a denture wearer including 5-8% w/w of an hydrophilic gelling agent, 2-7% w/w of a thickening agent, 5-20% w/w of ail agent that imparts water resistance to the composition, 0.2-5% w/w of humectant(s) and the balance being water, the composition being formable into a viscous hydrophobic film in use. A method of retaining dentures in the mouth of a denture wearer by applying to the denture or the mouth tissue the composition and placing the denture into position in the mouth in a manner such that the composition substantially forms a seal between the mouth tissue and the denture to thereby assist in the retention of the denture.

Abstract: The present invention provides compositions useful for viscosifying aqueous fluids, methods for making them and methods for using them. In one aspect of the invention, inventive compositions comprise a prehydrating alcohol having at least two hydroxyl groups and having a molecular weight of from about 60 to about 600; an inorganic salt; and a polymer. In a preferred aspect of the invention, the viscosifier composition additionally comprises a solvent having a molecular weight of from about 75 to about 1000. According to another aspect of the invention, inventive compositions comprise a prehydrating alcohol; an inorganic salt; and a polymer; and the composition is essentially free from water. Inventive compositions find advantageous use in viscosifying fluids utilized in subterranean drilling activities such as, for example, drilling, drill-in, completion, hydraulic fracturing, work-over, packer, well treating, testing, spacer, or hole abandonment fluids.

Abstract: A polymer composition, a process for the production of a polymer composition, in particular of an absorbent, are disclosed which substantially consist of a special component A based on renewable polysaccharide raw materials, a special component B consisting of a water-soluble polymer, a matrix material, an ionic and/or covalent cross-linking agent, or an anti-blocking agent, which is obtainable in that the water-swellable polymer is brought together with the polysaccharide polymer, that these are dried and ground then, the other components are added, and mixing up to homogeneity is effected followed by a heat treatment, and that during the addition of the cross-linking agent, after said heat treatment, the same is optionally fixed by the matrix by means of a final heat treatment.Additionally the use of this polymer composition and (animal) hygiene items and chemico-technical products are disclosed which comprise a previously manufactured polymer composition.

Abstract: This invention relates to paper coating compositions comprising pigment, adhesive binder and rheology modifier wherein the rheology modifier comprises at least one of a) a mixture of guar and at least one other water-soluble polymer in sufficient amount to reduce the amount of guar adsorbed onto the pigment, or b) reduced molecular weight guar. The invention also relates to processes for making coated paper using the coating compositions, and to paper coated with the coating compositions.

Abstract: A polymer composition, in particular an absorbent composition or an active substance-containing depot material are disclosed which substantially consist of a water-soluble and/or water-swellable polymer based on polysaccharides as the main component, and of a water-swellable polymer as further component, used as polymeric components, and of a matrix material for the prevention of separation and gel blocking, an ionic or covalent cross-linking agent, a reactive additive, as well as of an anti-blocking agent. Additionally, their production and use as well as (animal) hygiene items and chemico-technical products are disclosed which comprise these polymer compositions or absorbent compositions.

Abstract: Latex binders are disclosed which are used to prepare freeze-thaw-stable latex coating compositions which may be free of volatile freeze-thaw/open-time additives. The latex binders are prepared by combining a polymer which is the polymerization product of a polymerizable saccharide monomer, an acrylic monomer and, optionally, a monomer selected from styrenic monomers, ionic monomer and wet adhesion monomers. The latex coating compositions are freeze-thaw stable, even in the total absence of a volatile freeze-thaw additive, and exhibit improved open-time when compared to a latex coating composition which does not contain a volatile freeze-thaw additive. Methods for preparing the freeze-thaw-stable latex coating compositions are also disclosed.

Abstract: A coating composition useful for coating a surface, such as a pipe surface, includes a water-based emulsion containing an asphalt having a penetration value of no greater than about 10 dmm at 25.degree. C., a latex, at least one thickener and a surface active wetting agent.

Abstract: An aqueous ball point ink composition comprising a key aqueous ball point ink composition comprising coloring materials consisting of (pigment and pigment dispersant) and/or precolored emulsion resin, water-soluble organic solvent, pseudoplastic imparting agent and water and cross-linked polyacrylate salt in a proportion of about 0.05-0.5% by weight based on the amount of said key aqueous ball point ink composition.

Abstract: An improved denture adhesive composition is comprised of a highly cross-linked lower alkyl ether/maleic acid or maleic anhydride copolymer in which up to about 85% of the initial free carboxyl groups are reacted with one or more cross-linking agents. The cross-linking agents are mixtures of inorganic divalent cations such as calcium, magnesium and zinc together with organic bifunctional compounds comprised of polyhydroxyl compounds such as propylene glycol, glycerin and the like. The copolymer has a specific viscosity of no less than 1.5. A hydrophilic polymer such as sodium alginate or carboxymethyl cellulose may also be added to the lower alkyl vinyl ether/maleic acid or maleic anhydride copolymer which is then formulated with other excipients in a paste, powder, liquid, gel or cream composition.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process for the production of a multicoat coating of the basecoat/clearcoat type using a water-dilutable basecoat composition. The process comprises a basecoat composition which contains 0.1 to 4.0% by weight, based on the binder solids, of xanthan gum and 5 to 80% by weight, based on the binder solids, of crosslinked polymeric microparticles prepared from polyester polyols and polyisocyanates.

Abstract: This invention provides latex compositions prepared using, for example, both acetoacetoxyethyl methacrylate (AAEM) and t-butylaminoethyl methacrylate (t-BAMA) which when applied to a pre-coated substrate, possess out-standing wet adhesion when compared to waterborne polymers containing either AAEM or t-butylaminoethyl methacrylate alone. The latex compositions of this invention continue to exhibit superior wet adhesion after storage at room temperature for one year. The latex compositions are thus particularly useful in coating compositions, especially coating bare or previously-coated metals, paper, plastics, wood, textiles, and in adhesives.

Abstract: High modulus, flexible films may be fabricated from blend of pectin, poly(vinyl alcohol) and, optionally, plasticizers. The combination of pectin and poly(vinyl alcohol) is advantageous in that pectin increases the biodegradability of poly(vinyl alcohol). In addition, the use of pectin provides effective utilization of an agricultural product.

Abstract: An ionomer for an ion complex membrane useful for the separation of water-organic solvent by osmosis or low pressure osmosis as well as by pervaporation and a method for producing ion complex membrane therefrom are disclosed. The ionomer for producing ion complex membrane can be prepared by heat polymerization of an alkyl compound having pyridyl groups such as 1,3-di(4-pyridyl) propane at both terminal ends with a dihaloalkane compound such as dibromooctane and dichloroheptane having two halogen atoms at both terminal ends or with one or two halogen atoms affixed to intermediate carbon atoms in a polar solvent such as acrylonitrile. An ion complex membrane can be produced by preparing a membrane of a polycation or polyanion in a solution casting method and dipping the membrane in a solution of polycation or polyanion for 24 hours to give an ion complex membrane. This ion complex membrane may be a single membrane or composite membrane. Composite membrane includes a plain membrane and a hollow fiber membrane.

Abstract: A process for making paper to enhance the dry strength of the paper produced without substantially reducing its softness comprising adding to a bleached pulp furnish, separately or together, (1) an anionic polymer selected from the group consisting of carboxymethyl guar, carboxymethyl bean gum, carboxymethyl hydroxyethyl guar, and a carboxymethyl hydroxypropyl guar, with (2) a cationic polymer selected from the group consisting of a cationic guar, a cationic acrylamide copolymer, a cationic bean gum, a cationic amineepichlorohydrin wet strength resin, and both a cationic wet strength resin and at least one of the other said cationic polymers, a composition for adding to a paper-making pulp slurry comprising the said polymers, a method for making the said composition, and a paper product containing the said composition, are disclosed.

Abstract: This invention relates to a liquid composition for the control of pitch deposition in pulp and paper making comprising an aqueous solution of (1) a derivatized cationic guar, and (2) a nonionic polymer.

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: A stable, non-aqueous liquid suspension of delayed boron cross-linkers comprises an anhydrous boron compound or a sparingly soluble borate suspended in a mixture of mineral spirits (commonly termed as naphtha) and a resin. Anhydrous boron compounds suitable for suspension include, but are not limited to, anhydrous borax, anhydrous boric acid, or a mixture of both the anhydrous borax and anhydrous boric acid. Sparingly soluble borates suitable for suspension include, but are not limited to, alkaline earth metal borates, alkali metal borates, or a mixture thereof. The mixture between the mineral spirits and resin produces a mineral spirits-resin solution. Alternatively, the mineral spirits may be replaced with a suitable oil which forms an oil-resin solution when mixed with the resin. The oil-resin solution suspends the anhydrous boron compound or the sparingly soluble borate to produce a stable, non-aqueous liquid suspension of delayed boron cross-linkers.

Abstract: A dried film reinforced with coalescable water insoluble polymer particles which are substantially noncoalesced is disclosed. Also disclosed are dried films reinforced with noncoalesced water insoluble polymer particles which are readily water dispersible. Also disclosed are stable aqueous dispersions for formation of such films which comprise (a) a water insoluble component comprising coalescable polymer particles which have a T.sub.g less than 55.degree. C. and a majority of which have a particle size of less than 1 micron; and (b) a water soluble component which comprises a water soluble polymer capable of inhibiting coalescence of the polymer particles, or a water soluble polymer and a component capable of inhibiting coalescence of the polymer particles.

Abstract: A cement admixture composed of a low molecular weight oxyalkylene compound and a comb polymer having carboxylic acid groups and oxyalkylene units therein.

Abstract: A sustained release pharmaceutical formulation includes a sustained release excipient including a gelling agent, an inert pharmaceutical diluent, an optional cationic cross-linking agent, and a medicament having moderate to poor solubility is disclosed. In certain embodiments, the sustained release excipient is granulated with a solution or suspension of a hydrophobic polymer in an amount effective to slow the hydration of the gelling agent when the formulation is exposed to an environmental fluid. In another embodiment, the tablet is coated with a hydrophobic polymer.

Abstract: A novel blend composition comprising one or more cationic polygalactomannas and xanthan gum is provided. The blend is capable of producing enhanced viscosities when distributed in a solvent. The blend is suitable for use in foods, explosives, oil field chemicals, textile fibers, agricultural chemicals and cosmetics.

Abstract: Disclosed are denture adhesive compositions possessing improved aesthetics and comprising a component which provides for easy removal of the adhesive from the denture and a hydrophilic powder.

Abstract: At least 20% of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) is dispersed in an aqueous solution of at least one salt dissolved therein selected from the group of sodium or potassium formate, sodium, potassium, or magnesium sulfate, sodium or potassium citrate, sodium or potassium polyacrylate, or mixtures thereof. This aqueous suspension of PVA is useful in systems in which PVA is dissolved in order to reduce the time of dissolution.

Abstract: Flow of a stream comprised of hydrocarbons is improved by introducing into the stream a stable, non-agglomerating suspension comprising:(a) water,(b) highly dispersed in the water, and substantially insoluble therein, and extremely finely-divided, non-crystalline, ultra-high molecular weight, hydrocarbon-soluble, undegraded polyalkene having 2 to about 30 carbon atoms per alkene precursor and an inherent viscosity of at least 20 dL/g, and(c) a small but effective amount of a surfactant having a HLB of at least about 9. The finely divided polyalkene is prepared by polymerization and then cryogrinding below the glass transition temperature of the polyalkene.

Abstract: A water-resistant, fiberboard for use in making panels and tiles for building construction is disclosed. The fiberboard contains primary components which include mineral fiber, low density, nonfibrous inorganic filler and organic fiber. The fiberboard includes about 0.1-2 wt % of silicone fluid, preferably polymethylhydrogensiloxane, which improves water resistance without adversely affecting other physical properties.

Abstract: A pressure-sensitive adhesive is obtainable by a process comprising polymerizingan ester of acrylic or methacrylic acid having a non-tertiary alcohol comprising 4 to 12 carbon atoms in the alkyl chain (component A) in the presence ofat least one kind of a naturally occuring polysaccharide except hydrolyzed starch, cellulose ethers and cellulose esters (component B),radical chain initiators (component C).The pressure sensitive articles manufactured from the pressure sensitive adhesive have improved properties. In particular, the articles are repositionable and the adhesion under humid conditions is improved when cellulose powder is used as component B.

Abstract: Ad adhesive composition suitable for wound dressing and other medical applications comprising a mixture of polyisobutylene and a rubber polymer selected from the group consisting of random styrene butadiene copolymer (SBR) and halobutyl rubber so as to form a rubbery elastomer base matrix, and at least one hydrocolloid. The addition of the SBR or halobutyl rubber to the elastomer base offsets the possible degradation of the polyisobutylene upon sterilization, and therefore, helps to maintain the integrity of the composition. Water soluble hydrocolloid gums and water swellable cohesive strengthening agents are dispersed within the base matrix and may carry a pharmaceutical agent to be dispensed directly to a wound site.

Abstract: A curing composition for concrete that is an effective water barrier and that is relatively easily removed contains an acrylic or a styrene polymer latex and a polysaccharide. The polysaccharide makes the coating composition susceptible to enzyme action and thus easily removable by flooding the surface of the coated concrete with a dilute solution of enzyme reactive with the polysaccharide.

Abstract: A cross-linked gel-like composition of matter. The composition is capable of being used as a modeling compound, as well as being moldable, extrudable, stretchable, and being inflated into bubbles for use as a play activity. The composition is based on a cohesive polyvinyl alcohol non-adhesive and substantially non-drying composition that is safe if accidentally ingested and can be washed from fabrics and carpets with water.

Abstract: A process for making paper to enhance the dry strength of the paper produced without substantially reducing its softness comprising adding to a bleached pulp furnish, separately or together, (1) an anionic polymer selected from the group consisting of carboxymethyl guar, carboxymethyl bean gum, carboxymethyl hydroxyethyl guar, and a carboxymethyl hydroxypropyl guar, with (2) a cationic polymer selected from the group consisting of a cationic guar, a cationic acrylamide copolymer, a cationic bean gum, a cationic amine-epichlorohydrin wet strength resin, and both a cationic wet strength resin and at least one of the other said cationic polymers, a composition for adding to a paper-making pulp slurry comprising the said polymers, a method for making the said composition, and a paper product containing the said composition, are disclosed.

Abstract: A pressure sensitive adhesive composition particularly suitable for use as a protective skin barrier material for sealing the faceplate of an ostomy appliance, such as the faceplate of a one-piece or two-piece urostomy or an ileostomy appliance, to skin surfaces surrounding a patient's stoma. The composition includes a blend of two viscoelastic adhesive elastomers, specifically, high molecular weight polyisobutylene and a styrene block copolymer, which, along with a plasticizer (preferably petrolatum) and a suitable tackifier and antioxidant, form a continuous phase in which hydrocolloids such as sodium carboxymethylcellulose and pectin are dispersed. The composition is exceptional for its durability, flexibility and strength, even when saturated, and for its controlled swelling upon hydration.

Abstract: At least 20% of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) is dispersed in an aqueous solution of at least one salt dissolved therein selected from the group of sodium or potassium formate, sodium, potassium, or magnesium sulfate, sodium or potassium citrate, sodium or potassium polyacrylate, or mixtures thereof. This aqueous suspension of PVA is useful in systems in which PVA is dissolved in order to reduce the time of dissolution.

Abstract: A method of gelling a guar or derivatized guar polymer solution utilized to perform a hydraulic fracturing operation includes the step of adjusting the pH of the guar or derivatized guar polymer solution to between about 8.5 and 12.5. After adjusting the pH, an anhydrous boron compound or a sparingly soluble borate suspended in a mineral spirits-resin solution or an oil-resin solution is added to the guar or derivatized guar polymer solution. The guar or derivatized guar polymer solution and the anhydrous boron compound or the sparingly soluble borate solution suspended in the mineral spirits-resin solution or the oil-resin solution is then pumped into a subterranean formation under sufficient pressure to cause a fracture in the formation rock.

Abstract: A water based thixotropic adhesive gel is disclosed which contains: water; polyvinyl alcohol, or wherein a portion of the polyvinyl alcohol is replaced with polyvinylpyrrolidone; xanthan gum to impart thixotropic properties to the gel; and a plasticizer for the polyvinyl alcohol. The gel has a thixotropic index which permits the viscosity of the adhesive to break down when a flexible tube or squeeze bottle dispenser is finger-pressed while having a sufficiently low viscosity to allow for easy extrusion from an orifice having a diameter of about 0.06 to 0.15 inches. When pressure is released, after the desired amount of adhesive has flown out of the dispenser, the adhesive quickly reverts to very close to its original gel state so that it does not run on a vertical surface of porous or semiporous material such as paper. Preferred gels contain a water soluble dye and are clear.

Abstract: An adhesive composition suitable for wound dressing and other medical applications comprising a mixture of polyisobutylene and a rubber polymer selected from the group consisting of random styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) and halobutyl rubber so as to form a rubbery elastomer base matrix, and at least one hydrocolloid. The addition of the SBR or halobutyl rubber to the elastomer base offsets the possible degradation of the polyisobutylene upon sterilization, and therefore, helps to maintain the integrity of the composition. Water soluble hydrocolloid gums and water swellable cohesive strengthening agents are dispersed within the base matrix and may carry a pharmaceutical agent to be dispensed directly to a wound site.

Abstract: A three-part dry blended soluble mixture which includes a water soluble hydroxyl group bearing polymer, a covalent crosslinking agent, and a catalyst is made into an aqueous solution which is then applied to any underlying material of choice. After drying, the crosslinked polymer forms a material that is completely insoluble in water, thereby serving as a binder or tackifier. One additive that may be included with the dry blend is wood fiber in an approximate weight ratio of nine to one and thereafter this dry blend is combined with water where the three-part dry blend goes into solution while the fibers remain in suspension. This composition is then spray applied to any underlying material and upon drying, there is formed a bonded fiber matrix which is relatively strong and which has many applications such as for use as an erosion control/seeding material, a covering for landfills, or a covering for other particulate materials stored in an outside location.

Abstract: A modified elastomeric glove is disclosed having a lubricous coating made up of polyvinyl alcohol and a thickening agent. The thickening agent is initially added in order to increase the processability of the polyvinyl alcohol coating in order to prevent runbacks and drips during the manufacturing process. A hydroscopic thickener may be used. The polyvinyl alcohol coating becomes lubricous when wetted in a water bath and therefore becomes particularly useful in applying a water-activated resin casting material for forming orthopaedic casting bandages.

Abstract: Building material products, such as, for example, jointing compounds, adhesives, emulsion paints, synthetic plasters, fillers and the like, comprising a mixture ofa) at least 10% by weight, in particular 10 to 99% by weight, of a water-soluble natural polymer and derivatives thereof,b) 1 to 89% by weight of an alkali metal salt or ammonium salt of a crosslinked polyacrylate which, if desired, is grafted with a starch, andc) 0 to 60% by weight of a water-soluble alkali metal salt or alkaline earth metal salt of arylsulfonic acid/formaldehyde condensation products or of a sulfo-modified melamine/formaldehyde polycondensation product.

Abstract: An additive to cement based materials to render the materials self-leveling upon being mixed with water and applied as a coating upon a floor substrate. The additive comprises a formaldehyde based resin, preferably melamine formaldehyde, and a water retention agent, preferably xanthan gum alone, hydroxyethyl cellulose alone, or a combination thereof.

Abstract: A gel-forming composition is used in a process for molding a ceramic composition. The gel-forming composition, such as agar, is improved with a gel-enhancing agent, e.g. polyethyleneimine. As a result, the gel-forming composition improves the ceramic molding process and/or the ceramic product formed therefrom.

Abstract: A water based thixotropic adhesive gel is disclosed which consists essentially of: water; partially hydrolyzed polyvinyl alcohol, or wherein a portion of the polyvinyl alcohol is replaced with polyvinylpyrrolidone; a water-soluble high viscosity thickening agent polymer which is compatible with the polyvinyl alcohol and which imparts thixotropic properties to the gel; a water-soluble plasticizer for the polyvinyl alcohol; and a watersoluble defoamer in proportion of ingredients so that the viscosity of the adhesive will break down when a flexible tube or squeeze bottle dispenser is finger-pressed and have a sufficiently low viscosity to allow for easy extrusion from an orifice having a diameter of about 0.06 to 0.12 inches. When pressure is released, after the desired amount of adhesive has flown out of the dispenser, the adhesive quickly reverts to very close to its original gel state so that it will not run on a vertical surface on porous and semiporous surfaces such as paper.