A system for curing a composite part, includes a mandrel configured to receive and support the uncured composite part; a plurality of expandable pellets disposed on the uncured composite part; and a mold configured to hold the mandrel, the uncured composite part, and the plurality of expandable pellets, wherein the plurality of expandable pellets are configured to expand and apply a positive pressure to the uncured composite part according to a change in condition or triggering event, and wherein each of the plurality of expandable pellets includes a blowing agent, a polymer matrix configured to hold the blowing agent, and a flexible skin configured to encapsulate the polymer matrix and the blowing agent, wherein the flexible skin is at least partially permeable with respect to the blowing agent or a gas released by the blowing agent.

Additive manufacturing processes featuring consolidation of thermoplastic particulates may form printed objects in a range of shapes. Inorganic nanoparticles disposed upon the outer surface of the thermoplastic particulates may improve flow performance of the thermoplastic particulates during additive manufacturing, but may be undesirable to incorporate in some printed objects. Polymer nanoparticles may be substituted for inorganic nanoparticles in some instances to address this difficulty and provide other advantages. Particulate compositions suitable for additive manufacturing may comprise: a plurality of thermoplastic particulates comprising a thermoplastic polymer and a plurality of polymer nanoparticles disposed upon an outer surface of the thermoplastic particulates, the polymer nanoparticles comprising a crosslinked fluorinated polymer.

The present disclosure relates to a method for decomposing a plastic-containing material which makes it possible to stably and efficiently decompose a plastic-containing material, and a method for recovering an inorganic material, as well as a regenerated carbon fiber and a method for producing the regenerated carbon fiber. The present disclosure also relates to a blended spun yarn comprising a regenerated carbon fiber, a carbon-fiber-reinforced thermoplastic resin pellet comprising the blended spun yarn, and a method for producing them, a carbon-fiber-reinforced thermoplastic resin strand and a method for producing the same, and a carbon-fiber-reinforced thermoplastic pellet.

Disclosed are azeotropic or azeotrope-like compositions containing Z-1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluoro-2-butene and methyl perfluoropropyl ether. Also disclosed is process of using the azeotropic or azeotrope-like composition as blowing agents for preparing a thermoplastic or thermoset foam. Also disclosed is a process of using the azeotropic or azeotrope-like composition as a refrigerant for producing cooling or heating. Also disclosed is a process of using such azeotropic or azeotrope-like compositions as solvents. Also disclosed is a process of using the azeotropic or azeotrope-like composition as propellants for producing an aerosol. Also disclosed is a process of using such azeotropic or azeotrope-like compositions as heat transfer media. Also disclosed is a process of extinguishing or suppressing a fire by using such azeotropic or azeotrope-like compositions. Also disclosed is a process of using such azeotropic or azeotrope-like compositions as dielectrics.

A method for producing bead foams from foam beads based on thermoplastic elastomers, especially thermoplastic polyurethane, comprises foam beads being wetted with a polar liquid and joined together thermally in a mold via high-frequency electromagnetic radiation, especially microwave radiation, and also the bead foams obtainable therefrom.

Improved soles and insoles for shoes, in particular sports shoes, are described. In an aspect, a sole for a shoe, in particular a sports shoe, with at least a first and a second surface region is provided. The first surface region comprises expanded thermoplastic polyurethane (“TPU”). The second surface region is free from expanded TPU.

Methods for manufacturing articles, including articles of footwear, apparel, and sporting equipment are provided. The methods comprise decorating a plurality of foam particles. The decorating can comprise applying a coating on the foam particles, or embossing or debossing the foam particles, or both. The decorating can comprise applying a coating on the foam particles by printing, painting, dyeing, applying a film, or any combination thereof. The plurality of foam particles are affixed utilizing aspects of additive manufacturing methods. This abstract is intended as a scanning tool for purposes of searching in the particular art and is not intended to be limiting of the present disclosure.

A housing component for a mobile terminal such as a smartphone or a laptop computer, includes a carbon fiber reinforced plastic body that is operative to shield components within the housing from electromagnetic radiation. The housing component further includes at least one antenna window. The at least one antenna window is configured to be associated with at least one antenna of the terminal. The at least one antenna window enables the at least one antenna to transmit and receive electromagnetic signals without being shielded or interfering with the operation of the terminal circuitry within the housing.

A fibrous product for use in a variety of applications. The fibrous product particularly well suited for use in thermoforming 3-D articles such as food packaging, automotive parts, and electronic packaging. The fibrous product can be biodegradable, recyclable, and compostable. The fibrous product can contain a first plant fiber that is a non-wood fiber.

In general, in various embodiments, the present disclosure is directed systems and methods for producing a porous surface from a solid piece of polymer. In particular, the present disclosure is directed to systems that include a track assembly, mold assembly, press assembly, and methods for using the same for producing a porous surface from a solid piece of polymer. In some embodiments, the present systems and methods are directed to processing a polymer at a temperature below a melting point of the polymer to produce a solid piece of polymer with an integrated a porous surface.