A self-supporting inorganic and radiation-hard neutron shielding panel for use in absorbing thermal neutrons. The panel is constructed substantially of concrete and includes a high level of boron by weight to enhance the absorption of thermal neutrons. A layer of radiation-resistant fiber reinforcement within the panel enables production of a thin, strong panel that is self-supporting and easily transportable. Mounting means are included on the panel to facilitate easy mounting on a wall or similar surface. The panels are constructed entirely of inorganic materials and include at least 58% boron by weight to maximize their effectiveness in shielding against thermal neutrons. Further disclosed are methods for forming the neutron-shielding panels.

A self-supporting inorganic and radiation-hard neutron shielding panel for use in absorbing thermal neutrons. The panel is constructed substantially of concrete and includes a high level of boron by weight to enhance the absorption of thermal neutrons. A layer of radiation-resistant fiber reinforcement within the panel enables production of a thin, strong panel that is self-supporting and easily transportable. Mounting means are included on the panel to facilitate easy mounting on a wall or similar surface. The panels are constructed entirely of inorganic materials and include at least 58% boron by weight to maximize their effectiveness in shielding against thermal neutrons. Further disclosed are methods for forming the neutron-shielding panels.

In the field of decorative floor coverings, decorative panels are known having a MDF (Medium Density Board) or HDF (High Density Board) based core layer on top of which a decorative substrate is attached to provide the panels a desired appearance. The invention relates to a panel, in particular a decorative panel, a floor panel, a ceiling panel or a wall panel. The invention also relates to a floor covering consisting of a plurality of mutually coupled panels.

In the field of decorative floor coverings, decorative panels are known having a MDF (Medium Density Board) or HDF (High Density Board) based core layer on top of which a decorative substrate is attached to provide the panels a desired appearance. The invention relates to a panel, in particular a decorative panel, a floor panel, a ceiling panel or a wall panel. The invention also relates to a floor covering consisting of a plurality of mutually coupled panels.

A method for using an extended-life settable composition is disclosed. The method includes providing an extended-life settable composition comprising red mud, calcium hydroxide, water, and a cement set retarder. The method further includes activating the extended-life settable composition. The method additionally includes introducing the extended-life settable composition into a subterranean formation and allowing the extended-life settable composition to set in the subterranean formation.

A method for using an extended-life settable composition is disclosed. The method includes providing an extended-life settable composition comprising red mud, calcium hydroxide, water, and a cement set retarder. The method further includes activating the extended-life settable composition. The method additionally includes introducing the extended-life settable composition into a subterranean formation and allowing the extended-life settable composition to set in the subterranean formation.

A hydraulic composition is prepared by mixing (A) an admixture aqueous solution containing a water-soluble salt which is a water-reducing agent or setting retarder, and a water-soluble cellulose ether with (B) a fresh concrete composition containing a hydraulic substance, an aggregate, and water at job site. The method is effective for preventing the admixture solution from thickening even though the water-soluble cellulose ether without glyoxal treatment is used.

A hydraulic composition is prepared by mixing (A) an admixture aqueous solution containing a water-soluble salt which is a water-reducing agent or setting retarder, and a water-soluble cellulose ether with (B) a fresh concrete composition containing a hydraulic substance, an aggregate, and water at job site. The method is effective for preventing the admixture solution from thickening even though the water-soluble cellulose ether without glyoxal treatment is used.

The present invention provides a composition for forming a lightweight, low shrinkage and hydrophobic cementitious matrix, and a method for preparing thereof. The present cementitious matrix formed by the composition is lightweight, hydrophobic (or water repelling) and with low shrinkage which is useful in building and construction industry as non-structural wall resistant to water, heat and sound entry. The present invention also provides a method of preparing the composition and the cementitious matrix formed from the composition.

The present invention provides a composition for forming a lightweight, low shrinkage and hydrophobic cementitious matrix, and a method for preparing thereof. The present cementitious matrix formed by the composition is lightweight, hydrophobic (or water repelling) and with low shrinkage which is useful in building and construction industry as non-structural wall resistant to water, heat and sound entry. The present invention also provides a method of preparing the composition and the cementitious matrix formed from the composition.