Abstract:
In some variations, this disclosure provides compositions for reducing fluid permeability through a polymer membrane, the composition comprising a polymer (e.g., bromobutyl rubber) and mineral particles (e.g., kaolin particles) including fine particles with particle sizes between about 0.05 μm and about 1 μm and coarse particles with particle sizes between about 3 μm and about 20 μm. Applications for these improved-barrier polymers include tire innerliners, paint and paper coatings, films, adhesives, liners, paints, and hoses, for example. Methods of making and use these polymers are also disclosed.
Abstract:
Improved compositions are disclosed that inhibit ammonia volatilization from poultry litter and other animal enclosures. In some variations, a composition for use in reducing ammonia generation in animal enclosures comprises metal sulfate, an organic acid with pKa of about 3 or higher, and optionally a buffer. In some variations, a composition for use in reducing ammonia generation in animal enclosures comprises metal sulfate, an inorganic acid with pKa of about 1 or higher, and a buffer. A method of reducing ammonia concentration in an animal enclosure (e.g., a chicken house) includes introducing any of the compositions described herein. In some embodiments, the animal enclosure is a chicken house. The ammonia concentration may be maintained below 50 ppm NH3, preferably below about 25 ppm NH3.
Abstract:
In some variations, this disclosure provides a surface-modified hydrophobic clay composition for an ink formulation, the composition comprising up to 99 wt % clay particles with a particle-size distribution characterized in that at least 10% are smaller than 0.2 microns, at least 25% are smaller than 0.5 microns, and at least 95% are less than 5 microns; and from about 1 wt % to about 10 wt % of one or more organic compounds selected from quaternary ammonium compounds, organic acids, fatty acids, organic silanes, or organic polysilanes. The surface-modified hydrophobic clay composition may be produced by various methods, including a slurry method or a dry-mixing method. Ink clay loadings in heatset ink formulations may be increased to 10-15% without losing ink gloss. Inks may be produced with lower solvent, resin, and/or pigment concentrations, thereby reducing cost.