Abstract: Halogen-free flame retardant compositions comprising thermoplastic elastomers, which exhibit flame retardance and low-smoke emission. The flame retardant compositions comprise (a) one or more thermoplastic elastomers; and (b) a flame retardant mixture comprising: magnesium hydroxide, aluminium trihydrate, melamine cyanurate, and optionally a phosphate ester flame retardant.

Abstract: A method of polymer flooding within a sandstone formation the method comprising: injecting a treatment fluid composition into a wellbore, the treatment fluid composition comprising: a base fluid, and a viscosifier comprising a branched block copolymer wherein the branched block copolymer is a crosslinked, polymerized reaction product of crosslinker C and monomer A and monomer B and monomer D; and increasing hydrocarbon production from the wellbore.

Abstract: A method of polymer flooding within a carbonate formation the method comprising: injecting a treatment fluid composition into a wellbore, the treatment fluid composition comprising: a base fluid, and a viscosifier comprising a branched block copolymer wherein the branched block copolymer is a crosslinked, polymerized reaction product of crosslinker C and monomer A and monomer B and monomer D; and increasing hydrocarbon production from the wellbore.

Abstract: A method of drilling in a subterranean formation is disclosed. The method may include providing a direct emulsion drilling fluid comprising an aqueous-based fluid, an oil, and a poly-quaternary ammonium chloride emulsifier; circulating the direct emulsion drilling fluid from the surface, through a wellbore, and back to the surface; and extending the wellbore in the subterranean formation while circulating the direct emulsion drilling fluid.

Abstract: The present invention provides a water-absorbing agent that includes water-absorbent resin particles as essential components and is suitable for a sanitary material. A water-absorbing agent of the present invention includes water-absorbent resin particles obtained by polymerizing an unsaturated monomer having an acid group. The water-absorbing agent has centrifuge retention capacity (CRC) of 5 to 20 g/g and includes: a compound with a structure unit derived from polyalkyleneglycol other than the unsaturated monomer; and a multivalent metal salt, and accordingly the water-absorbing agent has high saline flow conductivity (SFC) in a range of the above centrifuge retention capacity (CRC).

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a composition of matter comprising a blend of discontinuous thermoplastic starch domains in a synthetic polymer, said composition of matter being characterized by an average diameter of thermoplastic starch domains of about 0.2 to about 1.5 microns. Also disclosed are compositions of matter comprising a blend of discontinuous thermoplastic starch domains in a synthetic polymer and being characterized by finished articles having key mechanical properties which are essentially maintained or in some cases improved over pure synthetic polymers. In yet another aspect, the present invention provides a method for making the material of the present invention. In a related aspect, the present invention provides the novel materials issued from the method of making the material. In other aspects, the present invention provides novel finished article compositions in the form of films or molded articles.

Abstract: Sulfonated graft copolymer obtained by radical graft copolymerization of one or more synthetic monomers in the presence of hydroxyl-containing naturally derived materials. The graft copolymer includes 0.1 to 100 wt %, based on weight of the total synthetic monomers, of at least one monoethylenically unsaturated monomer having a sulfonic acid group, monoethylenically unsaturated sulfuric acid ester or salt thereof, with the monomer and hydroxyl-containing naturally derived materials present in a weight ratio of 5:95 to 95:5.

Abstract: Biodegradable graft copolymers derived from a carbohydrate and at least one ?,?-unsaturated carboxylic acid derivative having superabsorbent properties are disclosed in addition to the substantially adiabatic polymerization process by which the graft copolymers are made. The methods disclosed can be carried out in a variety of currently available continuous commercial reactors. Polymerizations carried out with starch have surprisingly produced substantially quantitative yields of graft copolymer free of residual monomer produced as a moist copolymer. Product work-up typically involves an optional neutralization and drying.

Abstract: Provided are aliphatic-aromatic copolyetheresters that can exhibit biodegradation and improved physical properties. The copolyetheresters can be blended with other polymeric materials, and are useful for making a variety of shaped articles.

Abstract: A polymer composition and its use for thin film packaging applications including on a dry basis: a) from 45 to 90% by weight of starch; b) from 0.1 to 15% by weight of a water soluble polymer selected from polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinylacetate, and copolymers of ethylene and vinyl alcohol which have a melting point compatible with the molten state of the starch component; and c) from 5 to 45% by weight of one or more plasticizers having a molecular weight in the range of 50-6000, more preferably 50-2500 and more preferably still 100-400 and desirably selected from the group consisting of sorbitol, glycerol, maltitol, xylitol, mannitol, erythritol, glycerol trioleate, tributyl citrate, acetyl tri-ethyl citrate, glyceryl triacetate, 2,2,4-trimethyl-1,3-pentanediol diisobutyrate, polyethylene oxide, ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol or polyethylene glycol.

Abstract: A coating composition comprising a blend of at least two dye fixatives, at least one of which is a cationic polymer, and at least one of the other dye fixatives is a polyvalent metal salt, to form a water-insoluble complex. The ink recording sheets comprise a composition that is absorbed into the surface of the substrate as a sizing material, or alternatively, forms a continuous layer on the substrate. The present invention also encompasses methods for making the ink jet recording sheets.

Abstract: A method for producing biodegradable plastic from natural materials containing polysaccharides by treating the polysaccharide-containing materials with a basic aqueous solution, subsequently treating the mixture with a modifying material that converts pendant hydroxyl groups at any carbon atom of the anhydroglucose units of the saccharide to create polysaccharide carboxylate, and then reacting the product with proteins to produce a biodegradable copolymer with electrostatic chemical bonds between protein and polysaccharide carboxylate molecules. The process provides relatively inexpensive methods for preparing biodegradable plastics that are useful for manufacturing various articles.

Abstract: A curable binder composition consisting essentially of one or more ammonium salt of an inorganic acid and at least one carbohydrate, and the use thereof as a thermosetting binder. Also described are composite materials comprising the curable binder composition, and methods of application.

Abstract: Hybrid copolymer compositions include a hybrid copolymer including at least one ethylenically unsaturated monomer and a naturally derived hydroxyl containing chain transfer agent as an end group; and a hybrid synthetic copolymer including one or more synthetic polymers derived from the at least one ethylenically unsaturated monomer with at least one initiator fragment as an end group. The hybrid copolymer composition may be prepared as a scale inhibiting composition. Methods of preparing a hybrid copolymer are also included.

Abstract: The invention provides biodegradable polymeric hydrogel matrices having excellent durability and swellability. The matrices are formed from a combination of poly-?(1?4)glucopyranose macromer and a biocompatible biostable hydrophilic macromer. The matrices can be used in association with a medical device or alone. In some methods the polymeric matrix is placed or formed at a target site in which the matrix swells and occludes the target area, and is able to be degraded at the target site after period of time.

Abstract: A formaldehyde-free curable aqueous composition containing polyvinyl alcohol, a multi-functional crosslinking agent, and, optionally, a catalyst. The composition may be used as a binder for non-woven products such as fiberglass insulation. The non-woven products are formed by contacting the formaldehyde-free curable aqueous composition with fibrous components and the mixture is cured to form a rigid thermoset polymer providing excellent strength and water resistance of the cured nonwoven product.

Abstract: A blend polymer composition includes a styrene-based polymer, a non-styrene-based polymer, and a compatibilizer having a block copolymer. The block copolymer includes: a first block including a first monomer unit having an epoxy group, and a second monomer unit selected from an acrylate-based monomer unit, a methacrylate-based monomer unit, and a combination thereof; and a second block including a styrene-based monomer unit. The block copolymer has an epoxy equivalent ranging from 1000 g/eq to 20000 g/eq and a molecular weight distribution index ranging from 1.0 to 2.0.

Abstract: To provide a hydrophobic modified polyrotaxane soluble in an organic solvent, and a crosslinked polyrotaxane using this. A hydrophobic modified polyrotaxane has a cyclic molecule, a linear molecule including the cyclic molecule with piercing through the cyclic molecule, and blocking groups which are placed at both end terminals of the linear molecule to prevent the cyclic molecule from leaving from the linear molecule. The cyclic molecule is cyclodextrin, and each of all or a part of the hydroxyl groups in the cyclodextrin is modified with a hydrophobic modification group. A crosslinked polyrotaxane is formed by combining this hydrophobic modified polyrotaxane and a polymer through the cyclic molecule.

Abstract: A formaldehyde-free curable aqueous composition comprising an adduct of (a) carbohydrate polymer and (b) a multi-functional crosslinking agent such as a polybasic acid may be used as a binder for non-woven products such as fiberglass insulation.

Abstract: A barrier composition which is injection mouldable and able to be made into a transparent film or incorporated (by co-extrusion and/or lamination) into multi-layer film products, the composition on dry basis: a) from 45 to 90% by weight of a starch and/or a modified starch selected from starches modified by reaction with a hydroxyl alkyl group, an acetate or a dicarboxylic acid anhydride or a grafting polymer; b) from 4 to 12% by weight of a water soluble polymer selected from polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinylacetate, and copolymers of ethylene and vinylalcohol which have a melting point compatible with the molten state of the starch components c) from 5 to 45% by weight of a non-crystallising mixture of sorbitol and at least one other plasticizer selected from glycerol, maltitol, xylitol, mannitol, glycerol trioleate, epoxidised linseed or soybean oil, tributyl citrate, acetyl tri-ethyl citrate, glyceryl triacetate, 2,2,4-trimethyl-1,3-pentanediol diisobutyrate; polyethylene oxide or polyethylene glycol; d) from

Abstract: Biodegradable graft copolymers derived from a carbohydrate and at least one ?,?-unsaturated carboxylic acid derivative having superabsorbent properties are disclosed in addition to the substantially adiabatic polymerization process by which the graft copolymers are made. The methods disclosed can be carried out in a variety of currently available continuous commercial reactors. Polymerizations carried out with starch have surprisingly produced substantially quantitative yields of graft copolymer free of residual monomer produced as a moist copolymer. Product work-up typically involves an optional neutralization and drying.

Abstract: A method for preparing a starch-based thermoplastic composition, includes the following steps: (a) selecting at least one granular starch and at least one organic plasticizer for this starch, (b) preparing a plasticized composition by thermomechanically mixing this starch and this plasticizer, (c) optionally incorporating at least one functional substance carrying functions including an active hydrogen, (d) incorporating at least one bonding agent carrying at least two functional groups capable of reacting with molecules carrying functions including an active hydrogen, and optionally (e) heating the mixture to a temperature sufficient to cause the bonding agent to react with the plasticizer and with the starch and/or the functional substance, it being possible for steps (d) and (e) to be carried out simultaneously, and also a starch-based thermoplastic composition that can be obtained by this method.

Abstract: There is provided a starch-based coating composition with excellent storage stability as a one-pack type paint, which can form coating films with excellent drying property, finished appearances, pencil hardness, mar resistance, adhesion, alkali resistance, solvent resistance and weather resistance, as well as coated articles that have been coated with the starch-based coating composition. The starch-based coating composition comprises as the binder a resin composition obtained by reacting (A) starch and/or modified starch with (B) an isocyanate group-containing compound obtained by reacting a polyisocyanate compound (b1) and a polyhydric alcohol (b2), or by reaction of these components with a resin obtained by radical polymerization of a mixture comprising an aromatic-based radical polymerizing unsaturated monomer, a hydroxyl group-containing radical polymerizing unsaturated monomer and optionally another radical polymerizing unsaturated monomer.

Abstract: A coating composition comprising a blend of at least two dye fixatives, at least one of which is a cationic polymer, and at least one of the other dye fixatives is a polyvalent metal salt, to form a water-insoluble complex. The ink recording sheets comprise a composition that is absorbed into the surface of the substrate as a sizing material, or alternatively, forms a continuous layer on the substrate. The present invention also encompasses methods for making the ink jet recording sheets.

Abstract: An adhesion preventive material including a cross-linking polysaccharide derivative containing at least one active ester group introduced in a polysaccharide side chain, which is capable of reacting with an active hydrogen-containing group, and being capable of forming a crosslinked material due to covalent binding among the active ester group and an active hydrogen-containing group upon contact with water under an alkaline condition, is disclosed. The adhesion preventive material is able to reduce preparation works to be carried out while previously estimating the time of application and does not require a special device.

Abstract: Alkyldiketene-containing aqueous polymer dispersions which are obtainable by miniemulsion polymerization of hydrophobic monoethylenically unsaturated monomers in the presence of alkyldiketenes, processes for the preparation of such polymer dispersions and the use of the thus obtainable dispersions as sizes for paper or as water repellents for leather, natural and/or manmade fibers and textiles.

Abstract: Crosslinking systems suitable for use in a polymer melt composition wherein the polymer melt composition comprises a hydroxyl polymer; polymeric structures made from such polymer melt compositions; and processes/methods related thereto are provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a composition, which can be referred to as a biopolymer, including fermentation solid and thermoactive material. The present invention also includes methods of making the biopolymer, which can include compounding fermentation solid and thermoactive material. The present biopolymer can be formed into an article of manufacture.

Abstract: Methods and systems for producing superabsorbent polymer particles for use in agricultural applications are disclosed. A monomer is graft polymerized onto a starch to form a starch graft copolymer. The moisture content of the starch graft copolymer is reduced through the use of an extruder.

Abstract: Compositions comprising a blend of two or more paper strengthening agents have improved stability compared with previously known paper strengthening agents. One component is a polymeric paper strengthening agent, preferably a wet strengthening agent. The other component is a stabilized polyacrylamide prepared by (1) reacting a first portion of glyoxal with a polyacrylamide having pendant amide groups to form a first reaction mixture comprising polyacrylamide; (2) adding an acid to the first reaction mixture to form a second reaction mixture having a reduced pH and comprising the polyacrylamide; and (3) adding a second portion of glyoxal to the second reaction mixture to form the stabilized polyacrylamide. If desired, an aldehyde scavenger can be included in one or more of step (1), step (2), step (3), or the stabilized polyacrylamide. Such compositions can be used to enhance the strength of paper, particularly the wet strength of paper.

Abstract: The invention relates to thermoplastic compositions comprising a polymer matrix and an additive which modifies the rheological behavior of the matrix in the molten state. The purpose of the invention is to provide a preferably non-reactive additive which can be dispersed in the matrix and which can be used to obtain a good compromise in terms of rheological properties/mechanical properties. According to the invention, the additive is a hyperbranched polymer which is functionalized by R<2> radicals, R<2> being a radical of the following type: substituted or non-substituted hydrocarbon, of the silicon type, linear or branched alkyl, aromatic, arylalkyl, alkylaryl or cycloaliphatic, which can comprise one or more unsaturations and/or one or more heteroatoms.

Abstract: A coating composition comprising a blend of at least two dye fixatives, at least one of which is a cationic polymer, and at least one of the other dye fixatives is a polyvalent metal salt, to form a water-insoluble complex. The ink recording sheets comprise a composition that is absorbed into the surface of the substrate as a sizing material, or alternatively, forms a continuous layer on the substrate. The present invention also encompasses methods for making the ink jet recording sheets.

Abstract: The present invention provides: a novel water-absorbing agent, which exhibits an excellent absorption capacity under a load (AAP), gel layer liquid permeation rate under a load (FRUP), saline flow conductivity (SFC), and shape-maintaining property and ball burst strength (BBS) of a swollen water-absorbing agent aggregate, and excellent persistency of these effects for a long time. The water-absorbing agent, which comprises a polymer obtained by a process including the steps of polymerizing and then crosslinking a monomer including acrylic acid and/or a salt thereof, with the water-absorbing agent being characterized by: (1) exhibiting a free swelling capacity of not less than 23 g/g (GV), a gel deformation of not more than 12.5 cm under a short-time load (0.5 hrPT), and a gel deformation deterioration of not more than 3.

Abstract: [Object] To provide a coating material for a room temperature curable solvent-borne overcoating material having chipping resistance and not allowing occurrence of cracks, and a room temperature curable solvent-borne overcoating material using the same, the room temperature curable solvent-borne overcoating material being excellent in abrasion resistance and in performance such as weather resistance, contamination resistance and adhesion. [Solving Means] A coating material is formed of a lipophilic polyrotaxane including a cyclic molecule, a linear molecule piercing through the cyclic molecule to include it, and blocking groups disposed at both end terminals of the linear molecule to prevent departure of the cyclic molecule. In the lipophilic polyrotaxane, at least one of the linear molecule and the cyclic molecule has a hydrophobic modification group.

Abstract: Functionalized polymers and methods of functionalizing polymers with reactive species having decontaminating activity, such as polyoxometalates and metal oxides. Covalent bonding of the reactive species to the polymer securely immobilizes the reactive species and stabilizes the decontaminating activity of the reactive species. Specifically, the covalent bonding of the reactive species greatly reduces moisture deactivation during prolonged exposure to atmospheric moisture. Polyoxometalates are catalytically reactive through oxidative pathways and metal oxides are reactive through hydrolytic pathways. Both polyoxometalates and metal oxides having oxygen atoms available for covalent bonding with an appropriate bifunctional linking agent.

Abstract: Disclosed is a composition comprises or is produced from a biopolymer, an olefin copolymer, and an optional polymer wherein the biopolymer comprises repeat units derived from a glycoside. Also disclosed is an article comprising or produced from the composition.

Abstract: Hemicellulose fibers, more particularly to non-naturally occurring fibers incorporating hemicellulose, processes for making same and fibrous structures incorporating same are provided.

Abstract: A protective agent for forming a protective layer on the surface of an image carrier includes at least a hydrophilic organic compound and an amphiphilic organic compound at a ratio of 1/99 to 20/80. Preferably, the hydrophilic organic compound contains at least one selected from a polysaccharide and a polyether compound, or the amphiphilic organic compound contains a nonionic surfactant.

Abstract: A lid with a detachable sealing joint, the lid having a crown-type shell having an inner surface and an external surface, a sealing joint upon the inner surface of the shell; a detachable hydrophilic coating; and a coating compatible with the sealing joint upon the detachable hydrophilic coating; such that the detachable hydrophilic coating and the compatible coating form an adhesive interface between the crown and the sealing joint. The detachable hydrophilic coating having at least a water solid polymer, for example polyvinyl pyrrolidone; at least a cross-linking agent, for example, butanediol; and at least a solvent, for example, water. It also describes a method for manufacturing a lid with a detachable sealing joint and a method for bottling beverages using lids with a detachable sealing joint of the invention.

Abstract: An adhesion preventive material including a cross-linking polysaccharide derivative containing at least one active ester group introduced in a polysaccharide side chain, which is capable of reacting with an active hydrogen-containing group, and being capable of forming a crosslinked material due to covalent binding among the active ester group and an active hydrogen-containing group upon contact with water under an alkaline condition, is disclosed. The adhesion preventive material is able to reduce preparation works to be carried out while previously estimating the time of application and dose not require a special device.

Abstract: A composition comprising: (1) from 50 to 99 wt % of a modified, random copolyetherester containing: (i) a modified, random polybutylene terephthalate copolymer block that is derived from a polyethylene terephthalate component selected from the group consisting of polyethylene terephthalate and polyethylene terephthalate copolymers and combinations thereof; and that contains at least one residue derived from the polyethylene terephthalate component; and (ii) a polyalkylene oxide copolymer block that is derived from a polyethylene terephthalate component and polyalkylene oxide glycol, and contains polyalkylene oxide and at least one residue derived from the polyethylene terephthalate component; and (2) from 1 to 50 wt % of a polyester; wherein the copolyetherester, the polyester, and optionally any additives, are present in a total amount of 100 wt %.

Abstract: An object of the invention is to provide a polishing pad having the excellent slurry retaining properties and the large removal rate and a composition for a polishing pad which can form such the polishing pad. A composition for polishing pad of the invention is comprising a water-insoluble matrix material containing a crosslinked polymer and a water-soluble particle dispersed in the water-insoluble matrix material. The elongation remaining after breaking is 100% or less when a test piece comprising the water-insoluble matrix material is broken at 80° C. according to JIS K 6251. A polishing pad of the invention is that at least a part of the polishing pad comprises the composition for polishing pad.

Abstract: There is disclosed a rubber composition comprising: (A) 100 parts by weight of at least one rubber containing olefinic unsaturation; and (B) 1.5 to 50 phr of a cyclodextrin compound.

Abstract: Crosslinking systems suitable for use in a polymer melt composition wherein the polymer melt composition comprises a hydroxyl polymer; polymeric structures made from such polymer melt compositions; and processes/methods related thereto are provided.

Abstract: A process is disclosed for producing an acidic superabsorbent polysaccharide derivative, comprising the steps of. (a) crosslinking at least one polysaceharide containing acidic groups, such as carboxymethyl cellulose and/or 6-carboxy stanch, with a crosslinking agent to produce a gel; (b) if necessary, adjusting the pH of the polysaccharide to a value between 3.5 and 5.5; (c) comminuting the acidified polysaccharide gel; and (d) drying the comminuted polysaccharide at elevated temperature. The superabsorbent polysaccharide obtainable by this process has a pH below 5 and provides odour control when contacted with malodorous fluids.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for the production of grafted copolymers with a skeleton formed from starch or the derivatives thereof. Production occurs by means of tert-alkylazocyanocarboxylic acid esters of starch which are coupled by radical reaction with vinyl monomers. The invention also relates to grafted copolymers of starch, the dispersions thereof and the use of said grafted copolymers.

Abstract: The present invention encompasses cellulose ether blends comprising

Abstract: Methods of making and using a superabsorbent starch graft copolymer involve producing starch graft copolymers having particle sizes useful in granule applicators for application to agricultural fields. Starch graft copolymers applied to field crops provide excellent anti-crusting properties, increased seed germination and stand, increased crop growth, increased yields, and reduced water requirements.

Abstract: The object of the present invention is an additive composition for paper making which is added to the pulp prior to web formation in order to increase the wet strength of the web. The basic component of the composition is a component made from starch, which to its molecular weight has been thinned to a viscosity level of 10 to 400 (5%, 60° C.

Abstract: The present invention provides a variety of extended polyacrylic acid based binder compositions comprising a low molecular weight polyacrylic acid (typically hypophosphite or sulfite terminated), a crosslinking agent (such as triethanolamine or glycerol) and one or more water soluble materials, such as lignin, low molecular weight starch and soybean protein. The extended binder composition of the present invention provides a lower cost binder composition without degrading the performance and may be selected to alter one or more characteristics of the basic binder composition such binder wetting, emulsion compatibility, dust suppression and wash water flow properties.