Coatings for optical components of solar energy systems

The present application is directed to a method of providing a coating to a surface of an optical element of a solar energy conversion system. The method comprises coating the surface of the optical element with an aqueous coating composition comprising water and silica nanoparticles dispersed in the water; and drying the coating composition to form a nanoparticle coating. The silica nanoparticles comprise a polymer core surrounded by a shell comprising nonporous silica particles disposed on the polymer core.

COATINGS FOR OPTICAL COMPONENTS OF SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS

The present application is directed to a method of providing a coating to a surface of an optical element of a solar energy conversion system. The method comprises contacting the surface of the optical element with an aqueous coating composition comprising water and silica nanoparticles dispersed in the water, and drying the coating composition to form a nanoparticle coating. The coating composition has a pH of the composition of 5 or higher. The coating composition comprises an aqueous continuous liquid phase; silica nanoparticles having a volume average particle diameter of 150 nanometers or less dispersed in the aqueous continuous liquid phase; and an organic polymer binder. 1. A method of providing a coating to a surface of an optical element of a solar energy conversion system comprising:a) contacting the surface of the optical element with an aqueous coating composition comprising water and silica nanoparticles dispersed in the water;b) drying the coating composition to form a nanoparticle coating, an aqueous continuous liquid phase;', 'silica nanoparticles having a volume average particle diameter of 150 nanometers or less dispersed in the aqueous continuous liquid phase; and', 'an organic polymer binder., 'wherein the coating composition has a pH of the composition of 5 or higher and comprises'}2. The method of wherein the nanoparticles are free from a polymer core.3. The method of to wherein the coating is rinsed prior to drying.4. The method of to wherein the coating composition is dried in the ambient air.5. The method of to wherein the coating composition is heated during drying.6. The method of to wherein the optical element placed into the solar energy conversion system prior to the optical element being coated with the coating composition.7. The method of to wherein the optical element placed into the solar energy conversion system after the optical element is coated with the coating composition.8. The method of to wherein the nanoparticles are ...

SUPERHYDROPHOBIC FILMS

Superhydrophobic films (200, 400) are disclosed. More particularly, durable superhydrophobic films (200, 400) having discrete flat faces (206, 406) spaced apart by valleys (208, 408) where the valleys and faces are covered by nanostructures or nanoparticles (424) are disclosed. Various methods of making such films are also disclosed. 1. A superhydrophobic film , comprising:a first major surface; and wherein each of the discrete flat surface portions and valleys comprises a plurality of nanofeatures, and', 'wherein the superhydrophobic film has a water contact angle of at least 140 degrees and a sliding angle of less than 10 degrees., 'a second major surface opposite the first major surface, the second major surface comprising an array of discrete flat surface portions, wherein each of the discrete flat portions is substantially parallel to the first major surface; and the second major surface further comprising an array of valleys, wherein at least one valley is positioned between adjacent discrete flat surface portions,'}2. (canceled)3. The superhydrophobic film of claim 1 , wherein the valleys have flat side surfaces.4. The superhydrophobic film of claim 1 , wherein the valleys have curved side surfaces.5. The superhydrophobic film of claim 1 , wherein the film has a water contact angle of at least 150 degrees and a sliding angle of less than 5 degrees.6. (canceled)7. The superhydrophobic film of claim 1 , wherein the film is made of a polymer that is at least 95% PDMS.8. The superhydrophobic film of claim 1 , wherein the nanofeatures have an aspect ratio of at least 5 to 1.9. The superhydrophobic film of claim 1 , wherein the discrete flat portions are periodically spaced apart.10. The superhydrophobic film of claim 1 , wherein the discrete flat portions are variably spaced apart.11. (canceled)12. A superhydrophobic film claim 1 , comprising:a first major surface;a second major surface opposite the first major surface, the second major surface comprising an array ...

COATINGS FOR OPTICAL COMPONENTS OF SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS

The present application is directed to a method of providing a coating to a surface of an optical element of a solar energy conversion system. The method comprises coating the surface of the optical element with an aqueous coating composition comprising water and silica nanoparticles dispersed in the water; and drying the coating composition to form a nanoparticle coating. The silica nanoparticles comprise a polymer core surrounded by a shell comprising nonporous silica particles disposed on the polymer core. 1. A method of providing a coating to a surface of an optical element of a solar energy conversion system comprising:a) coating the surface of the optical element with an aqueous coating composition comprising water and silica nanoparticles dispersed in the water; and 'wherein the silica nanoparticles comprise a polymer core surrounded by a shell comprising nonporous silica particles disposed on the polymer core.', 'b) drying the coating composition to form a nanoparticle coating,'}2. The method of wherein the nonporous spherical silica particles have a volume average particle diameter of 60 nanometers or less.3. The method wherein the coating is rinsed prior to drying.4. The method of wherein the coating composition is dried in the ambient air.5. The method of wherein the coating composition is heated during drying.6. The method of comprising heating the optical element to at least 300° C.7. The method of wherein the optical element is placed into the solar energy conversion system prior to the optical element being coated with the coating composition.8. The method of wherein the optical element is placed into the solar energy conversion system after the optical element is coated with the coating composition.9. The method of wherein the coating composition has a pH of 5 or less.10. A solar energy conversion system comprisingan array of photovoltaic cells; andoptical elements positioned relative to the photovoltaic cells,wherein the optical elements are coated ...

COATING COMPOSITION AND METHOD OF MAKING AND USING THE SAME

The present application is directed to a method of making an article. The method comprises coating a composition to a surface of a substrate. The coating composition comprises an aqueous continuous liquid phase, a silica nano-particle dispersed in the aqueous continuous liquid phase, and a polymer latex dispersion. The coated substrate is then heated to at least 300° C. 1. A method of making an article , the method comprising an aqueous continuous liquid phase;', 'a silica nano-particle dispersed in the aqueous continuous liquid phase; and', 'a polymer latex dispersion; and, 'coating a composition to a surface of a substrate, the composition comprising'}heating the coated substrate to at least 300° C.2. The method of wherein the silica nano-particle and the polymer latex dispersion form a core-shell particle.3. The method of wherein the silica nano-particle is a nominally spherical particle.4. The method of wherein the silica nano-particle is an elongated particle.5. The method of wherein the coating composition comprises a blend of nominally spherical and elongated silica nano-particles.6. The method of wherein the silica nano-particle is a chain of nominally spherical particles.7. The method of wherein the silica nano-particle is a chain of elongated particles.8. The method of wherein the silica nano-particle is a chain of nominally spherical and elongated particles.9. The method of wherein each core-shell particle comprises a polymer core surrounded by a shell consisting essentially of nonporous nominally spherical silica particles disposed on the polymer latex core claim 2 , wherein the nonporous nominally spherical silica particles have a volume average particle diameter of 60 nanometers or less.10. The method of wherein the volume average particle diameter is 20 nanometers or less.11. The method of claim 1 , wherein the substrate surface comprises a glass panel.12. The method of wherein the glass panel has a flat surface.13. The method of wherein the glass ...

SUPERHYDROPHOBIC FILM CONSTRUCTIONS

Superhydrophobic films () and methods of making such films are disclosed. More specifically, superhydrophobic films having microstructured () and nanofeatured () surfaces, constructions utilizing such films, and methods of making such films are disclosed. 2. The superhydrophobic film of claim 1 , wherein the film reflects less than 2% of incident light.3. The superhydrophobic film of claim 1 , wherein the microstructures are prisms.4. The superhydrophobic film of claim 3 , wherein the prisms have a peak angle of about 90 degrees.5. The superhydrophobic film of claim 3 , wherein the prisms have a peak angle of between about 74 degrees and about 76 degrees.6. The superhydrophobic film of claim 1 , wherein the microstructures are microlenses.78-. (canceled)9. The superhydrophobic film of claim 1 , wherein the film has a water contact angle of at least 160 degrees.10. (canceled)11. The superhydrophobic film of wherein the silicone polymer is PDMS.12. The superhydrophobic film of claim 11 , wherein the microstructures and nanofeatures comprise at least 95 wt. % PDMS.1315-. (canceled)1617-. (canceled)18. The superhydrophobic film of claim 1 , wherein the microstructures have an average height of between about 0.15 microns and about 1000 microns.1920-. (canceled)21. The superhydrophobic film of claim 1 , wherein the nanofeatures have an average aspect ratio of at least about 4 to 1.22. (canceled)23. The superhydrophobic film of claim 1 , wherein the microstructures are shaped and arranged in a pattern that mimics sharkskin.24. The superhydrophobic film of claim 1 , wherein the microstructures are varied in at least one of three dimensions.25. The superhydrophobic film of claim 1 , wherein the microstructures and nanofeatures do not have any low surface energy coating applied to them.26. A superhydrophobic article comprising the superhydrophobic film of claim 1 , and a substrate upon which the superhydrophobic film is disposed.27. The superhydrophobic film of claim 1 , ...

Coatings for optical components of solar energy systems

The present application is directed to a method of providing a coating to a surface of an optical element of a solar energy conversion system. The method comprises contacting the surface of the optical element with an aqueous coating composition comprising water and silica nanoparticles dispersed in the water and drying the coating composition to form a nanoparticle coating. The coating composition comprises an aqueous dispersion with a pH of less than 5 and an acid having a pKa of <3.5.

DURABLE SOLAR MIRROR FILMS

The present disclosure generally relates to durable solar mirror films, methods of making durable solar mirror films, and constructions including durable solar mirror films. In some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to a solar mirror film comprising: a weatherable layer having a first major surface and a second major surface; regions of reflective material adjacent to the first major surface of the weatherable layer; and regions of the first major surface of the weatherable layer substantially lacking reflective material. In some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to a weatherable layer having a first major surface and a second major surface; wherein the first major surface includes a bulk region and an edge region; and a reflective material adjacent to the bulk region of the first major surface of the weatherable layer and substantially absent from the edge region. 1. A solar mirror film comprising:a weatherable layer having a first major surface and a second major surface; wherein the first major surface includes a bulk region and an edge region; anda reflective material adjacent to the bulk region of the first major surface of the weatherable layer and substantially absent from the edge region.2. (canceled)3. (canceled)4. (canceled)5. (canceled)6. The solar mirror film of claim 1 , further comprising:a tie layer between the weatherable layer and the reflective material.7. (canceled)8. (canceled)9. The solar mirror film of claim 1 , further comprising:a polymeric material between the weatherable layer and the reflective material.10. The solar mirror film of claim 1 , further comprising:a corrosion protective layer adjacent to the reflective layer.11. (canceled)12. The solar mirror film of claim 1 , further including an adhesive layer adjacent to the reflective layer.13. (canceled)14. (canceled)15. The solar mirror film of claim 1 , wherein the substrate is part of one of a photovoltaic solar panel system and a concentrated solar power system.16. ...

ANTI-SOILING COMPOSITIONS, METHODS OF APPLYING, AND APPLICATION EQUIPMENT

The present disclosure relates generally to anti-soiling compositions, methods of applying anti-soiling compositions, and equipment for applying anti-soiling compositions. In some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to a method of forming a durable coating on a glass substrate, comprising: (1) applying a coating composition to a glass substrate, the applied coating composition having a thickness of greater than 4 microns; the coating composition consisting essentially of about 0.25% to about 10% by weight of non-oxidizing nanoparticles, an acid, and water; (2) allowing the coating composition to remain on the glass substrate for at least an amount of time sufficient to permit at least some of the nanoparticles to bond to the glass substrate; (3) reducing the thickness of the coating composition to about 0.25 to 4 microns, and (4) evaporating at least some of the water to form the durable coating. 1. A method of forming a durable coating on a glass substrate , comprising:applying a coating composition to a glass substrate, the applied coating composition having a thickness of greater than 4 microns; the coating composition consisting essentially of about 0.25% to about 10% by weight of non-oxidizing nanoparticles, an acid, and water;allowing the coating composition to remain on the surface of the glass substrate for at least an amount of time sufficient for at least some of the nanoparticles to bond to the glass substrate;using a tool to reduce the thickness of the coating composition to about 0.25 to 4 microns, andevaporating at least some of the water to form the durable coating.2. (canceled)3. (canceled)4. (canceled)5. The method according to claim 1 , wherein some of the non-oxidizing nanoparticles have a diameter of between about 2 nm and about 20 nm and some of the non-oxidizing nanoparticles have a diameter of between about 20 nm and about 75 nm.6. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the coating composition contains essentially no oxidizing ...

ANTI-SOILING COMPOSITIONS CONTAINING NANOPARTICLES AND POLYMERS WITH CARBOXYLIC ACID GROUPS OR SALTS THEREOF

A coating composition is provided comprising nanoparticles and certain polymers comprising carboxylic acid groups or salts thereof. When applied to articles, the coating is resistant to soiling by both dry dust and wet soil. Coated articles and methods of applying coatings are also described herein. 1. A coated article comprising a dry coating , wherein the dry coating comprises:a first set of non-oxidizing nanoparticles having an average diameter of 20 nm to 120 nm;an optional second set of non-oxidizing nanoparticles having an average diameter of less than 20 nm; wherein at least 90% of the monomer units comprise at least one carboxylate group or the conjugate acid thereof;', 'wherein the dry coating is hydrophilic;', 'wherein the dry coating is on the surface of the coated article;, 'a polymer comprising monomer units;'}optionally one or more metallic cations with a positive charge of at least +2; andan optional non-polymeric acid.2. (canceled)3. The coated article according to claim 1 , wherein at least 95% of the polymer monomer units comprise at least one carboxylate group or a conjugate acid thereof.4. The coated article according to claim 1 , wherein the first set of nanoparticles has an average diameter of 20 nm to 75 nm.56-. (canceled)7. The coated article according to claim 1 , comprising the second set of nanoparticles claim 1 , wherein the second set of nanoparticles has an average diameter of less than 15 nm.8. (canceled)9. The coated article according to claim 1 , wherein the monomer unit in the polymer is chosen from one or more of acrylate claim 1 , itaconate claim 1 , beta-carboxyethyl acrylate and the corresponding conjugate acids thereof.10. The coated article according to claim 1 , comprising one or more metallic cations with a positive charge of at least +2; wherein the one or more metallic cations are chosen from cations of a metal in Groups 2 to 16 of the periodic table.1114-. (canceled)15. The coated article according to claim 1 , wherein ...

Polymerizable compositions comprising alpha-olefin hydrocarbon monomers and methods of use therefor

PCT No. PCT/US96/05227 Sec. 371 Date Apr. 15, 1996 Sec. 102(e) Date Apr. 15, 1996 PCT Filed Apr. 15, 1996 PCT Pub. No. WO97/17380 PCT Pub. Date May 15, 1997A polymerizable composition comprises an alpha-olefin hydrocarbon monomer, an effective amount of an organometallic catalyst of a Group VIII metal, preferably Ni or Pd, and at least one of water and air. Novel catalysts for polymerizing alpha-olefin hydrocarbon monomers provide improved processes and products. Methods of the invention include polymerizing the composition in open air and in the presence of water to provide novel polymers.

Polyolefin microspheres

Microspheres comprise a polymer or copolymer including one or more of 1) a plurality of C 3 or larger alpha-olefin units wherein the polymer has an average number of branch points less than one per monomer unit, and 2) a plurality of C 2 alpha-olefin units wherein the polymer has an average number of branch points greater than 0.01 per monomer unit, the microspheres having an average diameter in the range of 1 to 300 micrometers. Optionally, the polymer of the microspheres can be crosslinked. The microspheres can be prepared by suspension or dispersion polymerization processes using aqueous or organic reaction media.

Polyolefin microspheres

Microspheres comprise a polymer including one or more of 1) a plurality of C3 or larger alpha-olefin units wherein the C3 or larger alpha-olefin units are incorporated into the polymer so as to give an average number of less than one branch point per C3 or larger alpha-olefin unit, 2) a plurality of C2 alpha-olefin units wherein the C2 alpha-olefin units are incorporated so as to give an average number of branch points greater than 0.01 per C2 alpha-olefin unit, and 3) cyclopentene or substituted cyclopentene, the microspheres having an average diameter in the range of 1 to 300 micrometers. Optionally, the polymer of the microspheres can be cross-linked. The microspheres can be prepared by suspension or dispersion polymerization processes using aqueous or organic reaction media. Powder coatings can be prepared from the microspheres.

Polyolefin microspheres

Microspheres comprise a polymer including one or more of 1) a plurality of C 3 or larger alpha-olefin units wherein the C 3 or larger alpha-olefin units are incorporated into the polymer so as to give an average number of less than one branch point per C 3 or larger alpha-olefin unit, 2) a plurality of C 2 alpha-olefin units wherein the C 2 alpha-olefin units are incorporated so as to give an average number of branch points greater than 0.01 per C 2 alpha-olefin unit, and 3) cyclopentene or substituted cyclopentene, the microspheres having an average diameter in the range of 1 to 300 micrometers. Optionally, the polymer of the microspheres can be crosslinked. The microspheres can be prepared by suspension or dispersion polymerization processes using aqueous or organic reaction media. Powder coatings can be prepared from the microspheres.

Energy-induced dual curable compositions

An energy polymerizable composition comprises at least one ethylenically-unsaturated monomer, one of polyurethane precursors, and at least one epoxy monomer, and a curing agent comprising an organometallic compound, and an onium salt.

Energy-induced curable compositions

A polymerizable composition comprises a polymeric precursor selected from the group consisting of (1) at least one ethylenically-unsaturated monomer, (2) at least one epoxy monomer, and (3) polyurethane precursors, and a curing agent comprising an organometallic compound and an onium salt.

Energy-induced curable compositions

A polymerizable composition comprises a polymeric precursor selected from the group consisting of 1) at least one ethylenically-unsaturated monomer, 2) at least one epoxy monomer, and 3) polyurethane precursors, and a curing agent comprising an organometallic compound and an onium salt.

Energy-induced dual curable compositions

An energy polymerizable composition comprises at least one ethylenically-unsaturated monomer, one of polyurethane precursors, and at least one epoxy monomer, and a curing agent comprising an organometallic compound, and an onium salt.

Energy-induced dual curable compositions

An energy polymerizable composition comprises at least one ethylenically-unsaturated monomer, one of polyurethane precursors, and at least one epoxy monomer, and a curing agent comprising an organometallic compound, and an onium salt.

Energy-induced dual curable compositions

An energy polymerizable composition comprises at least one ethylenically-unsaturated monomer, one of polyurethane precursors, and at least one epoxy monomer, and a curing agent comprising an organometallic compound, and an onium salt.

Polymerizable compositions comprising alpha-olefin hydrocarbon monomers and methods of use therefor

A polymerizable composition comprises an alpha-olefin hydrocarbon monomer, an effective amount of an organometallic catalyst of a Group VIII metal, preferably Ni or Pd, and at least one of water and air. Novel catalysts for polymerizing alpha-olefin hydrocarbon monomers provide improved processes and products. Methods of the invention include polymerizing the composition in open air and in the presence of water to provide novel polymers.

Polyolefin microspheres

Alpha-olefin adhesive compositions

An adhesive composition comprises a polymer or copolymer including one of 1) a plurality of C3 or larger alpha-olefin units wherein the polymer has an average number of branch points less than one per alpha-olefin unit; and 2) a plurality of C2 alpha-olefin units wherein the polymer has an average number of branch points greater than 0.01, said adhesive being selected from the group consisting of a pressure sensitive adhesive, a hot melt adhesive, and a polymerized glue. Optionally, the polymer can be crosslinked. Articles of the invention include the adhesive tapes, labels, and adherents comprising a coating of the polymerizable composition of the invention.

Alpha-olefin adhesive compositions

Bir yapistirici madde kompozisyonu asagida belirtilenlerden birisini içeren bir polimer veya kopolimer ihtiva eder:1) çok sayida C3 veya daha büyük alfa-olefin üniteleri, burada polimer beher alfa-olefin ünitesi basina birden daha az ortamda brans noktasi sayisina sahiptir; ve 2) çok sayida C2 alfa-olefin üniteleri, burada polimer 0.01'den daha büyük olan ortalama brans noktasi sayisina sahiptir, ve sözü geçen yapistirici madde basinca karsi duyarli bir yapistirici madde, sicakta eriyen bir yapistirici madde, ve polimerize bir zamktan tesekkül eden gruptan seçilir. Opsiyonel olarak polimer çapraz baglanabilir. Bu bulusun esyalari yapiskan bantlari, etiketleri, ve bu bulusun polimerize olabilen kompozisyonunun bir kaplamasini ihtiva eden yapiskan maddeleri içine alir. An adhesive composition contains a polymer or copolymer containing one of the following: 1) multiple C3 or larger alpha-olefin units, wherein the polymer has a number of branch points in less than one environment per alpha-olefin unit; and 2) a plurality of C2 alpha-olefin units, wherein the polymer has an average number of branch points greater than 0.01, and said adhesive is a pressure sensitive adhesive, a hot melt adhesive, and a polymerized gum. selected. Optionally, the polymer can be crosslinked. The articles of this invention include adhesive tapes, labels, and adhesives containing a coating of the polymerizable composition of this invention.

Polymerizable compositions containing olefin metathesis catalysts and cocatalysts, and methods of use therefor

Polymerizable compositions comprising alpha-olefin hydrocarbon monomers and methods of use therefor

A polymerizable composition comprises an alpha-olefin hydrocarbon monomer, an effective amount of an organometallic catalyst of a Group VIII metal, preferably Ni or Pd, and at least one of water and air. Novel catalysts for polymerizing alpha-olefin hydrocarbon monomers provide improved processes and products. Methods of the invention include polymerizing the composition in open air and in the presence of water to provide novel polymers.

Process for the in-line polymerization of olefinic monomers

A process that involves the in-line polymerization of olefinic monomer(s) and catalyst systems comprising a transition metal species that mediates the polymerization of the monomer(s) is disclosed. This process provides the immediate use of the resultant polymer without extensive further processing.

Polymerizable compositions containing olefin metathesis catalysts and cocatalysts, and methods of use therefor

Polymerization of ring-strained cyclic olefins takes place in the presence of a one-part or two-part catalyst which is air and moisture stable and which comprises a transition metal-containing compound. The one-part transition metal-containing catalyst is selected from the group consisting of (a) compounds of the formula (L.sup.1) (L.sup.2)Q wherein Q represents Mo or W; L 1 represents one to six CO (carbonyl) ligands; L 2 represents none to 5 ligands, each of which is a non-ionic compound or unit of a polymer which can be the same or different, each contributes two, four, or six electrons to the metal and is different from L 1 ; wherein the sum of the valence electrons of Q and the electrons contributed by the ligands L 1 and L 2 is 18, (b) at least one of cationic ruthenium and osmium-containing organometallic salts having at least one polyene ligand, and (c) [Ir(RO 2 CHC=CHCO 2 R) 2 Cl] 2 wherein each R independently is hydrogen or lower alkyl (C 1 to C 4 ), provided that the oxidation state of the metal is in the range of +3 to 0, and that cocatalysts containing C-halogen bonds are not present. The two-part catalyst comprises (a) a transition metal-containing catalyst, provided that the oxidation state of the transition metal is in the range of +3 to 0, and (b) a cocatalyst selected from the group consisting of (i) terminal or silyl alkynes, (ii) organosilanes containing at least ##STR1## (iii) oxidative salts or oxidative compounds containing an oxygen atom to non-oxygen atom double bond, and (iv) heteroatom-containing alkenes. The polymerized composition is useful to provide molded articles, elastomers, dielectric supports, ionophoric or biologically active materials, composite materials, and the like.

Process for the packaged polymerization of olefinic monomers

A process that involves the packaged polymerization of olefinic monomer(s) and catalyst systems comprising a transition metal species that mediates the polymerization of the monomer(s) is disclosed. This process provides a way to use the resultant polymer without extensive further processing.

Polymer-saturated paper articles

A composite article includes a paper substrate, at least a portion of which is saturated with either a polymerizable ring-strained olefin monomer or the polymerization product of such a monomer. The polymerization of such monomers are catalyzed by transition metal-containing species. These paper saturated articles are useful as, inter alia, packaging materials, release liners, and backings.

Methods of adjusting sales plans

A method of adjusting a sales plan using information gathered from an item monitoring system. In one embodiment of the a method of adjusting a sales plan, the method comprises the steps of: providing a sales plan related to items; providing an item monitoring system, comprising: at least one sensor, wherein the sensor senses a plurality of items in a first amount of space associated with the sensor, wherein the sensor is capable of sensing both items containing metal and items containing no metal; a communications network; and a computer, wherein the computer receives information from the sensor through the communications network; gathering information from the item monitoring system during a first instance; processing the information to determine the quantity of items within the first amount of space at the first instance; and adjusting the sales plan related to items based on the information processed.

Polymerizable compositions comprising alpha-olefin hydrocarbon monomers and methods of use therefor

A polymerizable composition comprises an alpha-olefin hydrocarbon monomer, an effective amount of an organometallic catalyst of a Group VIII metal, preferably Ni or Pd, and at least one of water and air. Novel catalysts for polymerizing alpha-olefin hydrocarbon monomers provide improved processes and products. Methods of the invention include polymerizing the composition in open air and in the presence of water to provide novel polymers.

Polyolefin microspheres

Process for the packaged polymerization of olefinic monomers

A process that involves the packaged polymerization of olefinic monomer(s) and catalyst systems comprising a transition metal species that mediates the polymerization of the monomer(s) is disclosed. This process provides a way to use the resultant polymer without extensive further processing.

Coating composition and method of making and using the same

The present application is directed to a method of making an article. The method comprises coating a composition to a surface of a substrate. The coating composition comprises an aqueous continuous liquid phase, a silica nano-particle dispersed in the aqueous continuous liquid phase, and a polymer latex dispersion. The coated substrate is then heated to at least 300° C.

Anti-soiling compositions for dry and wet soil

A coating composition is provided comprising nanoparticles and certain silane compounds. When applied to articles, particularly glass articles, the coating that is formed is resistant to soiling by both dry dust and wet soil.

Methods of adjusting sales plans

A method of adjusting a sales plan using information gathered from an item monitoring system. In one embodiment of the a method of adjusting a sales plan, the method comprises the steps of: providing a sales plan related to items; providing an item monitoring system, comprising: at least one sensor, wherein the sensor senses a plurality of items in a first amount of space associated with the sensor, wherein the sensor is capable of sensing both items containing metal and items containing no metal; a communications network; and a computer, wherein the computer receives information from the sensor through the communications network; gathering information from the item monitoring system during a first instance; processing the information to determine the quantity of items within the first amount of space at the first instance; and adjusting the sales plan related to items based on the information processed.

Microwaveable radio frequency identification tags

A radio frequency identification (RFID) tag that can survive exposure to microwave energy.

A durable radio frequency identification label andmethods of manufacturing the same

Polymerizable compositions containing olefin metathesis catalysts and cocatalysts, and methods of use therefor

Polymerization of ring-strained cyclic olefins takes place in the presence of a one-part or two-part catalyst which is air and moisture stable and which comprises a transition metal-containing compound. The one-part transition metal-containing catalyst is selected from the group consisting of (a) compounds of the formula: (L1) (L2)Q wherein Q represents Mo or W; L1 represents one to six CO (carbonyl) ligands; L2 represents none to 5 ligands, each of which is a non-ionic compound or unit of a polymer which can be the same or different, each contributes two, four, or six electrons to the metal and is different from L1; wherein the sum of the valence electrons of Q and the electrons contributed by the ligands L?1 and L2¿ is 18, (b) at least one of cationic ruthenium and osmium-containing organometallic salts having at least one polyene ligand, and (c) [Ir(RO¿2?CHC=CHCO2R)2Cl]2 wherein each R independently is hydrogen or lower alkyl (C1 to C4), provided that the oxidation state of the metal is in the range of +3 to 0, and that cocatalysts containing C-halogen bonds are not present. The two-part catalyst comprises (a) a transition metal-containing catalyst, provided that the oxidation state of the transition metal is in the range of +3 to 0, and (b) a cocatalyst selected from the group consisting of (i) terminal or silyl alkynes, (ii) organosilanes containing at least one of α and β groups, (iii) oxidative salts or oxidative compounds containing an oxygen atom to non-oxygen atom double bond, and (iv) heteroatom-containing alkenes. The polymerized composition is useful to provide molded articles, elastomers, dielectric supports, ionophoric or biologically active materials, composite materials, and the like.

PROCEDURE FOR THE PACKAGED POLYMERIZATION OF OLEPHINIC MONOMERS.

SE DESCRIBE UN PROCEDIMIENTO QUE IMPLICA LA POLIMERIZACION DE MONOMERO(S) OLEFINICO(S) Y SISTEMAS CATALIZADORES QUE COMPRENDEN UN METAL DE TRANSICION, QUE INTERVIENE EN DICHO PROCEDIMIENTO DE POLIMERIZACION. EL CITADO PROCEDIMIENTO, PROPORCIONA UNA FORMA DE UTILIZACION DEL POLIMERO RESULTANTE, SIN NECESIDAD DE UN PROCESAMIENTO POSTERIOR. A PROCEDURE IS DESCRIBED THAT IMPLIES THE POLYMERIZATION OF OLEPHINIC MONOMER (S) AND CATALYST SYSTEMS THAT INCLUDE A TRANSITIONAL METAL, INTERVENING IN SUCH A POLYMERIZATION PROCEDURE. THE ABOVE PROCEDURE PROVIDES A FORM OF USE OF THE RESULTING POLYMER, WITHOUT THE NEED FOR A FURTHER PROCESSING.

A durable radio frequency identification label and methods of manufacturing the same

A durable radio frequency identification tag. A preferred embodiment of the invention provides a durable radio frequency identification tag comprising: a flexible substrate including a first major surface and a second major surface opposite the first major surface; a radio frequency identification antenna attached to the first major surface of the substrate; an integrated circuit attached to the antenna; and a thermoplastic guard attached to the flexible substrate adjacent the integrated circuit. The present invention also provides a method of manufacturing a durable radio frequency identification tag.

Coating composition and method of making and using the same

The present application is directed to a method of making an article. The method comprises coating a composition to a surface of a substrate. The coating composition comprises an aqueous continuous liquid phase, a silica nano-particle dispersed in the aqueous continuous liquid phase, and a polymer latex dispersion. The coated substrate is then heated to at least 300°C.

Polyolefin microspheres

Microspheres comprise a polymer or copolymer including one or more of 1) a plurality of C3 or larger alpha-olefin units wherein the polymer has an average number of branch points less than one per monomer unit, and 2) a plurality of C2 alpha-olefin units wherein the polymer has an average number of branch points greater than 0.01 per monomer unit, the microspheres having an average diameter in the range of 1 to 300 micrometers. Optionally, the polymer of the microspheres can be crosslinked. The microspheres can be prepared by suspension or dispersion polymerization processes using aqueous or organic reaction media.

Treating materials with a compound containing tin covalently bonded to a silylating group

Materials, particularly wood materials and calcium carbonate-containing materials such as concrete and marble, can be protected from the growth of algae by being treated with a compound containing tin covalently bonded to a silylating group such that cleavage of the covalent bonds due to hydrolysis or photolysis is minimized, thus making the treatment ecologically safe. One such compound is (n-Bu) 3 SnCH 2 CH 2 Si(OEt) 3 . The tin compound can either be incorporated into raw materials from which materials are to be made, or it can be applied to the finished materials. When the tin compound is applied to a material that is algae streaked, the streaking should disappear.

Polymer-saturated paper articles

A composite article includes a paper substrate and either a polymerizable ring-strained olefin monomer or the polymerization product of such a monomer that saturates at least a portion of the substrate. The polymerization of such monomers is catalyzed by transition metal-containing compounds. These paper saturated articles are useful as, inter alia, packaging materials, release liners, and backings.

An item monitoring system and methods of using an item monitoring system

An item monitoring system and method of using an item monitoring system. The present invention relates more particularly to an item monitoring system including a sensor, that senses a plurality of items in a first amount of space associated with the sensor and that senses both items containing metal and items containing no metal, a communications network, and a computer that receives information from the sensor through the communications network. The present invention also relates more particularly to a method of monitoring items to determine the number of items within a first amount of space associated with the sensor.

Polyolefin microspheres

Microspheres comprise a polymer or copolymer including one or more of 1) a plurality of C3 or larger alpha-olefin units wherein the polymer has an average number of branch points less than one per monomer unit, and 2) a plurality of C2 alpha-olefin units wherein the polymer has an average number of branch points greater than 0.01 per monomer unit, the microspheres having an average diameter in the range of 1 to 300 micrometers. Optionally, the polymer of the microspheres can be crosslinked. The microspheres can be prepared by suspension or dispersion polymerization processes using aqueous or organic reaction media.

Energy-induced dual curable compositions

An energy polymerizable composition comprises at least one ethylenically-unsaturated monomer, one of polyurethane precursors, and at least one epoxy monomer, and a curing agent comprising an organometallic compound, and an onium salt. More particularly the composition is an energy polymerizable composition comprising (a) at least one ethylenically-unsaturated monomer, (b) one of (1) polyurethane precursors, and (2) at least one epoxy monomer, and (c) a curing agent comprising (1) an organometallic compound, and (2) an onium salt. The compositions are useful, for example, as protective coatings, binders for magnetic media or abrasives, adhesives, and in graphic arts applications.

Articles and methods including patterned substrates formed from densified, adhered metal powders

In general the disclosure relates to manufacturing methods for producing conductive patterns on flexible substrates. For example, a layer of a metal powder composition is deposited onto an adhesive overlaying a substrate. Pressure is applied to the metal powder composition on the adhesive coated substrate web by a die having one or more projections, in order to reproduce a pattern on the substrate. The metal powder is compressed by the projections of the die, thereby densifying the powder and causing it to adhere to the adhesive in a reproduction of the die pattern. The metal powder does not adhere substantially in uncompressed regions, and may be removed. In this manner, a metal powder composition may be densified and adhered to a substrate forming a web of flexible circuit elements, for example, circuit elements such as antennas, resistors, capacitors, inductive coils, conduction pads and the like.

Superhydrophobic films

Superhydrophobic films (200, 400) are disclosed. More particularly, durable superhydrophobic films (200, 400) having discrete flat faces (206, 406) spaced apart by valleys (208, 408) where the valleys and faces are covered by nanostructures or nanoparticles (424) are disclosed. Various methods of making such films are also disclosed..

An item monitoring system and methods of using an item monitoring system

An item monitoring system and method of using an item monitoring system. The present invention relates more particularly to an item monitoring system including a sensor, that senses a plurality of items in a first amount of space associated with the sensor and that senses both items containing metal and items containing no metal, a communications network, and a computer that receives information from the sensor through the communications network. The present invention also relates more particularly to a method of monitoring items to determine the number of items within a first amount of space associated with the sensor.

Fluoreszente Härtungskontrollmittel

An item monitoring system and methods of using an item monitoring system

Published without an Abstract

An item monitoring system and methods of using an item monitoring system

Durable solar mirror films

The present disclosure generally relates to durable solar mirror films, methods of making durable solar mirror films, and constructions including durable solar mirror films. In some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to a solar mirror film comprising: a weatherable layer having a first major surface and a second major surface; regions of reflective material adjacent to the first major surface of the weatherable layer; and regions of the first major surface of the weatherable layer substantially lacking reflective material. In some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to a weatherable layer having a first major surface and a second major surface; wherein the first major surface includes a bulk region and an edge region; and a reflective material adjacent to the bulk region of the first major surface of the weatherable layer and substantially absent from the edge region.

Fluoreszente Härtungskontrollmittel

Fluorescent degree of cure monitors

Coatings for optical components of solar energy systems

The present application is directed to a method of providing a coating to a surface of an optical element of a solar energy conversion system. The method comprises contacting the surface of the optical element with an aqueous coating composition comprising water and silica nanoparticles dispersed in the water and drying the coating composition to form a nanoparticle coating. The coating composition comprises an aqueous dispersion with a pH of less than 5 and an acid having a pKa of < 3.5.