non-stick-coating

2014年1月22日星期三

Graphite Low Friction Coatings


Graphite low friction coatings are regarded some of the more widely used forms of solid film lubrication today.

Similar to molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) or tungsten disulfide (WS2) dichalcogenides, graphite also has a layered lattice, a hexagonal structure, with stronger (covalent) bonds within the structure (closely packed carbon atoms within the basal plane) than with neighboring ‘sheets’ (carbon atoms between basal planes).

But unlike the other lubricants, carbon graphite low friction coatings are not intrinsically lubricated. Graphite properties rely on adsorption of moisture or other condensable vapor such as hydrocarbons to develop the capability of lubrication. Consequently, graphite lubricates well in a normal Non Stick Coatings air atmosphere, but not at high altitudes or in vacuum. And once temperatures are high enough to create desorption, unless in the presence of relevant oxides, dry graphite will result in higher friction.

Everlube Products Pioneer and Leader in Solid Film Lubricant Technology.
There are a number of application methods, including a simple rubbing or burnishing, impact or impingement (powdered graphite), or air-sprayed resin-bonded or inorganically bonded coatings. Coating thickness of graphite low friction coatings can vary from less than 0.0001 inch in pure form, and up to 0.0005 inch or so, as resin-bonded or ceramic-bonded lubricants.

Friction coefficient less than 0.05 is attainable, but will also vary with humidity and sliding conditions. Tests show friction lowers with load (up to approximately 50,000 psi), faster surface PTFE Coatings speed, or both. Similar to MoS2 or WS2, friction from graphite low friction coatings is independent of particle size, though the larger particles can carry more load.

Though oxidation products (carbon dioxide, CO2) begin to form above 900 degrees Fahrenheit, lubrication from graphite low friction coatings is feasible at service temperatures of 1200 degrees Fahrenheit.

As with the other dry film lubricants, while differences may prove negligible, you will have to determine which is better for you: longer wear life or better performance. Generally, friction from graphite low friction coatings will be slightly higher by coating both surfaces, rather than coating one surface only. But wear life will increase coating both surfaces.

Without friction, life would certainly be inconvenient, if not dangerous. For example, we would not be able to easily stop and start our motion, or change our direction. But when it comes to moving machinery, in the presence of friction, there is considerable inefficiency associated with energy loss, diminished performance, and certainly limitations on wear resistance.

Working systems abound in the absence of lubrication. With poor chosen combination, like hard/soft metals, or poor quality surfaces, static (stationary) friction can be exceptionally Water Based Coating higher than dynamic (moving) friction. Oftentimes, the result is galling or seizure, the act of a ‘cold weld’. Best case, there is a ‘stick-slip’ phenomenon, the result of surfaces temporarily adjoined, bound sometimes by the smallest of areas, the most intimate of contact. Until the threshold of elastic energy is overcome between the two surfaces, forward movement can not occur.

Consequently, for dry lubrication to work successfully, these bonds (referred to as the adhesive component of friction) must be broken. This is where the dry film lubricants like graphite low friction coatings can serve you well.

Disturbing Sleep Conditions No One Talks About

Everyone's heard of sleep walking, sleep talking and sleep paralysis. There are dozens of weird, sometimes creepy sleep disorders that affect a number of people and make their bedtime seem Ceramic Coating like a night at the circus, if the circus were less full of elephants and more full of people in pajamas dry humping the fridge. Which is kind of like a French-Canadian circus. Make sure you buy the poutine if you go, but watch how the carny hands it to you -- the last thing you need is his thumb bacteria in your gravy.
Hilarious sites like Cracked tend to only inform you of actually interesting and bizarre sleep disorders. What the hell is the deal with the stuff that everyone does but no one ever wants to talk about because it's ridiculous? Why does stuff keep oozing out of us at night, is what I'm asking. Why?
#4. Scalp Leakage
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I'll preface this by saying that I once heard a stand-up comedian make a joke about your head leaking maple syrup at night, and it opened my mind to a whole new reality. I wasn't the only one. And really it would have been a shame if I was, because that would mean that either I had some kind of super Teflon Coated rare skull leprosy or my brain was trying to summon one of the Outer Gods and the portal was only opening wide enough for Shub-Niggurath to ooze one or two tentacles through.
The longer you own a pillow, the more like a turn of the century East Asian crime scene it will become. Every time you change your pillow case, you're pulling out a fluffy, comfy cloud that looks like it's been yanked straight from the asshole of Zeus himself after a rough night of low quality mead and Olestra burritos. It's yellowed and faded and terrifying, with wet filth patterns on it that seem to indicate that your hair spends all night releasing low volumes of oily piss to pass the time.
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You can feel your back door puckering in anticipation.
Logic dictates that you're probably just releasing head pee as a sort of relaxational process your body likes to go through as you wind down at night, because your body is a wonderland of gross when you're not paying attention to it. That's the scientific explanation for farts, incidentally -- your body attempting to be funny. Usually it works. Farts are hilarious. Or maybe it's just because your hair is naturally a bit greasy and if you hold something against it for eight hours a day, every day, it's going to get greasy, too. Feel free to test this theory by taping a swatch of cotton to Ron Jeremy's back for part of the day and see what it looks like when you're done. Just revolting.
If you Google "yellow stains on my pillow" right now, you'll get thousands of results from poor, confused, greasy Yahoo users desperate to understand why their hair follicles insist on Heat Resistant Coatings jacking it all over their pillows at night with only the educated guesses of other Yahoo users to satiate their curiosity. Unfortunately, the people who provide info on Yahoo Answers generally only have Ph.D.s in meth production and dumbassery, so their answers are about as satisfying as mine, but with more typos and a general air of discontent over their inability to understand the metric system and how you can tell if a door is a push or a pull without a sign. As near as I can tell, no actual scientific body has bothered to write about this phenomenon, because no one important actually cares. It's really disturbing to the good people of eHow, however.
#3. Drool Crust
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As part of my ongoing plan to make total strangers never want to meet me in person, I have to let you know about my terrible crusty problem. Nine mornings out of 10, I wake up with a mysterious, flaky snail trail snaking out of the left corner of my mouth that for all the world looks like tiny goblins had been mining and then dragging leaking sacks of condensed milk out of my face all night long.
Now I'm not so ignorant as to not understand the mechanics of drooling -- you fall asleep, your jaw goes slack, you drool. Babies perfected it, seniors and drunks revel in it, you and I dabble from time to time, and it's wonderful. What I can't quite wrap my head around is how, every night, I brush my teeth to a glossy sheen with minty, delightful toothpaste, and I even give ol' Mr. Tongue a swipe to ensure maximum freshness, then I wake up in the morning and it tastes like I've been sucking on a wild animal's taint after coating it in crab apple juice. And there's a flaked trail of shame leading from my face to my yellowed pillow, an accusing finger pointing to my nocturnal lack of sanitation and good graces.
Basically, it's the mechanics of what happens to your mouth at night that confuses me. Science tells me that the basic cause is dryness. Your saliva production slows down at night, which allows bacteria the chance to proliferate and your saliva to thicken up a bit. During the day, bacteria is happy to live on carbs in your mouth, but at night, when you hopefully stop eating, they have to switch to protein, like the cells of your mucous membranes, and they apparently digest those about as well as you'd think, which means they're dropping a lot of sulfur bombs along the way. In layman's terms (more layman than that ridiculous shit I just said), your dried out, hungry mouth bacteria just shits up a storm in your mouth all night.
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Put that wretched stink flipper back in your noxious food depository.
But come on. There's thick, bacteria-laden saliva, and then there's diluted ass fudge, which is what we're all waking up with. It happens to everyone, and odds are it's why I wake up alone more often than not (one of the reasons, anyway), but it'd be nice if Johnson & Johnson put together some kind Silicon Coating of anti-gruel tablets you could pop into your mouth at night that allow you to wake up with a mouthful of rosy cheer and a taste that is distinctly not the same as what I imagine a hobo's cleavage might taste like. Things are literally shitting in our mouths all night, why is no one working on a solution to this?

How to Remove Scratches from a Polyurethane Wood Floor Finish

Do you have hardwoodfloorstopped by a polyurethane finish? Have you started to notice some nicks, scratches and possibly even deep gouges in that shiny coating? Even with the best of care, it is possible to get occasional scratches in polyurethane sealed wood floors. Pulling a heavy chair or table across the floor's surface can be enough to cause damage. In other cases, dogs and cats run across the floor and leave more than light tracks.If your floor does have noticeably scratched areas, you don't need to despair. Even if a scratch has penetrated the polyurethane and reached the hardwood floor, you may be able to fix if yourself. You just have to follow five basic steps to fix and maintain your polyurethane wood floor finish:
1) Repair Scratches in Polyurethane Floors by Looking Closely at the Damage
Basically, you need to know if you're dealing with a light scratch or one which has penetrated the polyurethane wood finish. Even if you get down on your hands and knees and use a magnifying glass, it may still be hard to determine the depth of the scratch. Luckily, you can use a simple test to help assess the damage. Simply take a few teaspoons of water and let them drip directly onto the scratch.
Resist the impulse to stare at the scratched floor. Simply walk away and do something else for a few minutes. When you return, you'll either see beads of water on top of the polyurethane or you'll notice a dark spot on the hardwood. The dark spot means that the scratch has penetrated through the polyurethane wood finish and actually reached the hardwood itself. Whether the scratch is light or deep, odds are that you can still handle the repair yourself. But let's start with the easier task first.
2) Buy What You Need to Handle Light Scratches in Polyurethane Wood Finishes
If your floor isn't particularly old, you can save time by making a quick call to your hardwood floor installer. Some have touch up kits made specifically for your floor. Others carry basic kits which can be used on nearly any polyurethane wood finish. If so, you're in luck. Get the kit and follow the guidelines on the box. In most cases, scratch repair is simple.
No luck in locating a touch-up kit? Make a trip to the hardware store and grab some fine steel wool. Make sure you pick up some tack cloths to handle dust that you'll create from sanding Non Stick Coatings or buffing the scratch with the steel wool. Get a small bottle of mineral spirits and a polyurethane-friendly brush, too. Finally, you'll want to get some polyurethane hardwood floor finish. The only critical part of this whole process? You need to know whether an oil or water-based polyurethane was originally used on your hardwood floor. Again, the original floor installment specialist should be able to provide this information.
3) How to Remove Light Scratches in a Polyurethane Surface
Start with the steel wool and gently rub it over the damaged floor areas. Take care not to apply too much pressure. Remember, you are simply trying to remove any scratches, not cause further damage. Light dents and nicks should disappear quickly - with luck. If that doesn't work, reach for that bottle of mineral spirits. Use a simple kitchen scouring pad to help soak the scratch. Then buff it again. This should do the trick and get rid of light scratches in polyurethane. After the area has dried, use tack cloths to get rid of any PTFE Coating Process dust and brush on a coat or two of polyurethane. Be sure to keep all family members, friends, and pets out of the room for the next day or two. Your floor should look brand new again.
4) How to Repair Deep Scratches in a Polyurethane Finish
Even though this task isn't that hard, don't attempt to handle deep scratch repair if the majority of your floor has been damaged. In those cases, it is best to call a pro who may need to use an electric sander to make the task easier. But you can save money by handling a couple of deep scratches yourself.
Buy the same supplies needed for light polyurethane scratch repair (mineral spirits, brush, tack cloths, polyurethane, steel wool) with two exceptions - you'll also want very fine sandpaper and a wood stain that matches your hardwood floor. A manual hand sander can be a great aid as well.
To fix the damage, you simply need to sand through the polyurethane until you'll reached the hardwood floor. Is the wood stained? Sand it away and brush on the wood stain. Let the stain dry, use the tack cloth to get rid of any dust, and apply a coat of polyurethane over the wood. To remove and repair deep scratches, you may need to use several coats of polyurethane to fill in the damage. Allow each coat of polyurethane floor finish to dry completely before adding another layer. Only use as much as you need. Thicker coats are not necessarily better.
5) Finally, Take Simple Steps to Reduce Future Scratches in Polyurethane Floors
You don't have to harass every person who walks on your newly finished floor or insist that shoes are removed. You can greatly reduce scratches in polyurethane by putting a floor mat in each entrance Water Based Coating to the room. Some are even transparent (or nearly so). An attractive floor runner right inside the entrance will help to pick up excess dirt that gets into the room. Use a light vacuum or floor duster for five minutes every other day to grab excess dirt and debris. Finally, keep your pets' claws clipped. A significant number of scratches in polyurethane come from pets. A few minutes a week spent maintaining your floor can lessen - or even completely prevent - further damage.
Source:Personal experience
Published byJan Corn
I ve had extensive experience with DIY and home renovation projects, particularly after buying a home  that was in need of repair. As the daughter of a builder, I d learned a few things when helping my fathe...  View profile

Lemon and Herb Crusted Swordfish

2 teaspoons chopped lemon zest2 teaspoons chopped fresh dill2 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley2 teaspoons chopped fresh chervil1 teaspoon cracked black pepper2 teaspoons Dijon mustardSalt and pepper2 (6-ounce) swordfishsteaks1 tablespoon vegetable oil2 cups cleaned fresh arugula leaves2 tablespoons olive oilDirectionsIn a bowl combine the lemon zest, dill, parsley, chervil, and black pepper. Season the fish with salt and pepper, then lightly brush with Dijon mustardon one side. Firmly press the mustard coated side of the swordfish into the PTFE Coatings lemon-herb mixture.  In a skillet (preferably non-stick) heat vegetable oil. Place fish, coated side down into the hot oil. Cook for 4 minutes, until the crust turns golden. Flip and continue to cook for 3 more minutes. Meanwhile, in a bowl toss the arugula with 1 teaspoon olive oil, and season with salt and pepper, and then divide between 2 plates. Place the swordfish onto the arugula, drizzlewith the remaining olive oil.

What Are the Dangers of Xylan Nonstick

Cookware containing nonstick coatings such as Xylan should not be heated above 500 degrees Fahrenheit.Xylan is a brand of nonstick coating often used in pots and pans to make them easier to clean and to decrease the amount of oil used in cooking.  Similar to Dupont Teflon, Xylan can Teflon Coatings be found in a variety of cookware, making the cookware both nonstick and wear-resistant.  Though undoubtedly useful for the home cook, there are potential dangers when using cookware containing a nonstick coating such as Xylan.Other People Are Reading

The Difference Between Roasting Pans & Baking Dishes

Photo Caption The Difference Between Roasting Pans & Baking DishesPhoto Credit Jeanne Studio/Demand MediaRoasting pans and baking dishes are two closely related types of kitchenware. Often, they can be used interchangeably, with each performing the other's function. The difference between the two methods is more a Ceramic Coatings matter of custom and tradition as opposed to anything physical. However, it's possible to draw some generalizations.
Typical Roasting PanPhoto Credit Jeanne Studio/Demand MediaJuices and proteins from your roast meats cook on the pan -- and are difficult to remove -- so roasting pans are made from durable materials that will stand up to scrubbing. They're usually made of aluminum or another metal, though glass and ceramics are also used.  They are designed to hold turkeys and other large pieces of roasted meat, so most roasting pans have sides 2 1/2 to 3 inches high to contain the cooking juices. Many roasting pans have an indented bottom, or New Non Stick Coating include a rack, to keep the roast above the cooking juices.

Repairing Damage on Wood Furniture

Wood furniture quickly appears to age with the regular wear and tear of everyday living. Scratches, dings, stains, and discoloration seem to appear magically no matter how careful you are. With a little tender loving care, it is possible to make the damage magically disappear.Scratches
Light surface scratches can often be removed during the regular maintenance of your furniture. A piece of wax paper or a soft cloth moistened with furniture polish can be used to gently buff Ceramic Coatings out the marks. An area that has been scuffed, or that has suffered a series of light scratches, will need to be lightly sanded in the direction of the grain with a 320 grit sanding sponge before buffing.
Deeper scratches that do not go all the way through the clear coat can be repaired with a clear wax stick. Rub the wax stick in the opposite direction of the scratch and then rub off the excess with a soft rag. If you find a scratch that goes into the stain, you will need to find a matching stain pen to recolor the wood before coating it with oil or lacquer. Colored wax will also work, but keep in mind that it will stand out slightly because of the different texture.
Dents
If something has been dropped on a wood surface, the wood grains compress and create a dip in the surface. To fix this, cover the dent with a paper towel that is soaked with clear water. Then, press onto the dent with an iron that has been heated to the highest setting. The steam will cause the wood grains to heave and the dent to disappear. The rough grains can then be scuffed off with a 320 grit sanding sponge and wiped clean. Afterwards, the area can be given a light coat of lemon oil or lacquer.
Dents that do not lift with the iron will need to be pulled out. Hammer a fine drill bit or finish nail part way into the dent and pull on it with a pair of pliers. If you find that this still does not work, poke a series of small holes a quarter of an inch deep into the dent and iron or soak it with a commercial Non Stick Coating Replacement Spray wood-swelling liquid. Finally, the area can be rubbed with a piece of extremely fine steel wool and finished.
Gouges
Sometimes an item dropped onto wood will rip or chip pieces out of your furniture. If you still have the broken section of wood, you can coat both sides with a light coating of wood glue. You would then line it back up and clamp it or weight it down until the glue cures. Once the glue is dry and the clamp removed, excess glue can be rubbed off the finished surface with a dry cloth. If you are working on raw wood, glue should be wiped off before it is dry and sanded well before applying a finish.
If you no longer have the section that was broke out, you will have to fill it. Find a wood putty that matches the item you need to fill or tint one that is close with water based stain. Remeber that putty always dries darker and so it may be a good idea to test the color before using it. The putty can then be pressed into the hole using a putty knife and allowed to cure overnight. For chips on the edge of a project, wood glue can be mixed with the putty to make it adhere better and dry with more durability. Once the putty has cured, use a 320 grit sanding sponge or extra fine steel wool to sand off the excess putty and bevel the edges of the lacquer. (Wood items that have extremely thick lacquer may have to be bevel up to a half inch away from the repair with a utility or craft knife.) The area can then be coated with lacquer to hide the repair.
Cracks
You can repair cracks in much the same way as gouges, unless they are extremely large or they weaken the wood. Cracks that are exceptionally wide can filled with glue and either putty or a section of wood cut to fit in the hole. The wood plug needs to be clamped down tightly and left to dry. If the crack moves when you apply pressure to both sides, the break will need to be packed with glue and clamped the opposite way until the glue bubbles back out. For both of these repairs, the dry glue can be removed with a dry rag and sanded with a 320 sanding sponge before coating it with lacquer or a clear wax stick.
Lifting Veneer and Hiding Marks and Stains
Veneer lifts or bubbles when it swells or when the glue underneath simply lets go. Lay a wet cloth down overtop of the damaged area and press down firmly with a hot iron. If you find that the veneer still does not seal down, slice along the grain with a craft knife and put wood glue underneath before weighing it down.
Stains and light burns can often be PTFE Coating Process removed by rubbing it with an extra fine piece of steel wool dipped in mineral spirits. If this fails to remove the burn or stain, scrape over the mark with a sharp chisel or knife until the mark disappears and coat the area with lacquer.
Everyday life eventually takes its toll on wood furniture and trim in your home. To keep it looking like brand new, time needs to be spent maintaining and repairing your wood items. With a little bit of hard work and a few tricks up your sleeve, almost anything can be repaired or hidden.
Published byAngie H (angie1234p)
I am a professional oboist and freelance writer.  I enjoy working with a wide variety of topics from animal to sociology.  I have contributed many articles to a wide variety of magazines, ezines, and newspap...  View profile

2014年1月15日星期三

EMI RFI Shielding Coatings


 EMI RFI Shielding
No sci-fi aliens from "The Outer Limits" are controlling your TV, we're aware. Your knobs for picture or volume adjustment, your dial for channel changing, too, should be working fine.

But electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio PTFE Coating frequency interference (RFI) are very real, based on the explosive growth of electronics in the marketplace. So, how can you make your product safer, more secure?

Consider military, aerospace, medical or consumer device. Everything is getting smaller. Allowed routes for energy propagation are shortened. Processors are faster. The result is more and more interference, growing concern to protect ourselves. Why? Because, failure, damage, or disruption could be catastrophic.

Everlube Products Pioneer and Leader in Solid Film Lubricant Technology.
What are the options? Well, there is ground, filtration, reflectance or transmittance. Achieved by creating a conductive surface for the environment, you have the means to transfer the wave of energy to another source. Proven by Michael Faraday, his "Faraday Cage" says a conductive enclosure can eliminate disruption or damage.

That's what makes metal coatings so beneficial. Strongly adherent, Non Stick Coating Safety many ductile, they can be applied to a variety of materials. Coating choices can include: aluminum, copper, nickel and chrome. Applied by condensation or sputtering under vacuum, plating, or spray.

Today, many coatings for EMI RFI shielding are green, environmentally friendly. That's important with emerging directives, including RoHS, ELV, and WEEE.

We now return control of your television set to you...

What to Know When Buying Non-Stick Cookware

Prepare fried eggs without a mess using a nonstick pan.The introduction of nonstick cookware in the 1960s brought about significant change in the process of cooking food. Pots and pans no longer required thorough scrubbings, and use of cooking fats decreased. The slick surface of nonstick cookware is designed to allow food to be easily removed after cooking without the need for cooking spray or coatings of grease. Teflon Coating The popularity of nonstick cookware has given way to many brands, styles and price ranges. Detailed product research and investment in well-made pieces will extend the lifespan of your cookware collection.Other People Are Reading

The 5 Least Sexy Products Money Can Buy One Terrifying Date

There's a plethora of product review sites on the Internet, but they all have one problem in common: Responsibility. They're always "carefully testing products" given to them "expressly Ceramic Coatings for that purpose," and where's the fun in that? Plus, they don't have nearly enough pictures or boobsand almost never use the word ball-crushingly' to its full effect.See that? Already this is twice as good as a normal product review.

Not only will I review products that appeal to you, the Cracked demographic, but I'll actually see how they perform out in the real world with that most difficult and demanding of scenarios: Trying to get some. First up, the breakdown:

Cthulhu Perfume

Produced by Black Phoenix Alchemy Lab, the Lovecraft Collectionof perfumed oils are all scents directly drawn from, or at least inspired by, the works of H.P. Lovecraft and the Cthulhu universe. There's a lot of good stuff to choose from here, like Azathoth, The Daemon Sultan, whose marketing copy reads: "Azathoth is the blind, idiot god who sits on a black throne at the center of Chaos. His scent is high-pitched New Non Stick Coating and screeching, both impenetrably dark and searingly bright with the clarity of madness: tangerine, saffron, vetiver, black amber and cedarwood."

And while that sounded interesting (let's face it, nothing screeches like cedarwood) I'm a straight-up sucker for the classics. I had to opt for Cthulhu himself: "A creeping, wet, slithering scent, dripping with seaweed, oceanic plants and dark, unfathomable waters."

Simple, classy, elegant- who am I kidding? Words cannot describe the scent that is Cthulhu, for to describe it is to invite madness into this world. Although frankly, if somebody billed a scent as "Cthulhu-like" and smelling it didn't rupture the void between this world and the forgotten abyss, I'd ask for my fucking money back.

Shape Shifting Car

Technically speaking, the Peugeot Globuleis not a product up for review. It's what automobile makers call a Concept Car, which basically means it's the car design equivalent of masturbation: often secret, not meant to be shared with others and frequently inspiring both shame and regret when it is revealed. But PTFE Spray Coating luckily for you my passion for a thorough consumer review is only rivaled by my passion for grand larceny. Let's just say I "acquired" a test model.

The Globule is comprised of four separate, distinct pods that can take one passenger a piece. They're each individually powered, so adding or subtracting a globule doesn't affect the power or performance of the vehicle, and are all held together in a flexible polymer coating that allows for on the fly adjustment. The design is as sleek and sexy as you'd expect a high-end concept to be, and the gel-like exterior and ribbed texture are perfect for the eight people on earth who have always wanted to travel inside of a buttplug.

"I see absolutely nothing wrong with this design, Jenkins. Though you are, of course, aware that my mental condition causes me to see nothing but penises, right?"

As you probably guessed from that image, the Globule can shift its shape to accomplish a variety of purposes. For example, in parking mode all four pieces stack vertically, so that the driver's pod is the only part actually touching the ground. Clearly, this erect shape is perfect for fitting into tight spaces that would otherwise be uncomfortable for all involved.

Conductive Skin Ink

Bare is the first non-toxic, skin-safe conductive ink. It essentially transforms the human body into a functioning circuit component which, despite being the entire reason robots killed people in The Matrix, is actually pretty neat. Although right now, Bare is mostly used for performance art pieces (if you're not familiar with the art world, that's OK: "Performance Art" is what pale men named Heinrich call it when they strip nude and yell at passersby about stuff like "societal amorality" and "machine-emotion"). The conductive ink can be used for more utilitarian and entirely practical purposes like playing the naked lady piano!"I am a musician. Women are my instrument. No, for realsies; I'm not just being a dick here."

In order to hock musician Calvin Harris's new single, Sony Music set up a human synthesizerusing Bare-painted bikini models instead of keys. Mr. Harris performed his song by touching hands with each model in turn to complete their circuit, thus activating the conductive pad they were standing on and triggering their pre-assigned sound. That's right: Sony Music advocates using women like inanimate objects. So don't be surprised when Sony Pictures starts using whores as camera mounts and driving nails into their sets with the skulls of loudly protesting skanks.

Explosive Energy Drink

Inspired by the video game, Gears of War, the Imulsion energy drinkis based off of an in-game liquid described as a "phosphorescent, highly volatile, low-viscosity fluid."  In the game "direct exposure for any length of time" to Imulsion will cause subjects to "transform into highly explosive forms." That could all be metaphor, of course, for the aggressive edginess often brought about by high doses of caffeine, thus causing the drinker to "explode" at the drop of a hat... or it could literally turn your pee into dynamite. Only time and the ratio of ruined toilets to ruined relationships will tell. It should also be noted that, like all energy drinks, Imulsion has the consistency of expired cough syrup and tastes like somebody raped a lemon.

Gel Condom

Another product not officially released for public use, the gel condom is meant to help stem the tide of HIV infection in developing countries. The Gel Condomis usable by both sexes, but it's mostly meant for women who might find themselves sleeping with men refusing to use a condom themselves. The gel works by shifting from a liquid to a solid when coming in contact with sperm, thus physically entrapping semen to be disposed of later. If it helps, think of it like Angelina Jolie: Full of noble intentions but really only good for a quick fuck and then should be promptly discarded before it starts to smell. Though it's invaluable for women, there's little added benefit for men over a regular condom. Although if you've ever wanted a Transformer for a penis, this is probably as close as you're going to get for now.Of course my dick is a Decepticon. Did you think it'd be a good guy?

What? Don't front; we've all wanted our dongs to change into trucks at some point. Just own up to it. Don't make this weird.

And now to the second half of the review: How do these things perform in real life or, more importantly, how well do they facilitate your pussy intake? Well, thanks to extensive Photoshop manipulation and a technique I call "fantasti-lying," I was able to attain the assistance of a very attractive young lady for the night's experiment (though she seemed quite uneasy when I referred to our prospective date as "the night's experiment"). I started off our evening by boiling some water and burning off my tastebuds before downing six cans of Imulsion. If there's anything Sex in the City has taught me, it's that women love energetic, confident, violently explosive men, and the Imulsion certainly gave me all of those things in spades. After the fifth can or so, the world began to vibrate at a frequency exactly counter to my saccadic eye movements, tinting my vision with a parade of angular lines--an effect somewhat akin to that of a half-erased Etch-A-Sketch.

"Is my vision supposed to be erased whenever I shake? Because I can't stop shaking"

I then generously applied some of my newly acquired Cthulhu oil. After the first whiff, I heard the distant scuttling of tiny legs, and thought I caught the peripheral movement of something pink and be-tentacled. Excellent. The void was breached! What better way to set a mood? Chicks love dangerous guys, and if they get wet for a motorcycle I expect a goddamn monsoon for bringing forbidden knowledge of the Old Ones to the table.

 Gross, Robert. Come on.

I stepped out to the Peugeot Globule, which I had left in its phallic parking shape, rammed between the orb-like shells of two VW Bugs. I had to walk 16 blocks to find a spot with two bugs parked back to back, but when I saw the silhouette of the Globule's massive, erect shaft jiggling softly between the two short, round vehicles, I knew it was worth it. I mounted my automotive dildo and drove out to pick up my companion.Listen: If you're going to overcompensate, you might as well go all out.

I greeted my date cordially, who appeared to be somewhere between disappointed and skeptically furious upon first seeing me. When I led her out to the car, she was clearly hesitant about entering through the somewhat sticky, gel-like doors, but eight quick shoves and some vaguely threatening language later, and we were on our way. She seemed to perk up a bit when she noticed the fancy French restaurant we parked in front of, but her mood fell noticeably when it became clear that we were actually heading for the alleyway behind it. By the time she realized the alley was full of hobos shuffling absentmindedly in place on conductive metal disks, she seemed downright crestfallen.

"Oh, so now you're too good for an old fashioned impromptu hobo orchestra? Talk about pretentious"

Well, what did you expect? I didn't exactly have the kind of funds needed to hire two dozen stunning supermodels who wouldn't mind becoming electrical conductors for the day; I had to make do with promising Government Cheese sandwiches to the residents of a local shelter. After I convinced my lovely escort that this was not, in fact, a no-holds barred impromptu hobo-gangbang, but actually a piece of performance art, I began the show. It was a brilliant, emotive piece, that wove a tapestry of painful detail depicting the tenuous nature of human connection, and how it is being systemically destroyed by the ever-increasing gap that technological communication is engendering in our youth.

She wanted to know why I high-fived bums in alleyway to the tune of Queen's "Another One Bites the Dust" for 45 minutes.

God, art is wasted on the audience.

Pictured: Art.

I started to explain in the most patronizing terms I could manage that what I had done was an important social commentary, when a scruffy, angry man who introduced himself as "Billy Grills" began loudly demanding some sort of ridiculous sandwich payment. When I told him I had no idea what he was talking about, he inexplicably became irate. I'm a bit embarrassed to admit that I lost my composure, and that harsh words were exchanged. I am shamed to admit that clumsy, furious blows were thrown. I am downright mortified to admit that I may have spit in his face several times. When the last, particularly juicy mouthful contacted his lit cigarette, a massive explosion wracked the air.

So apparently Imulsion wasn't a just metaphor after all.

He screamed and ran frantically about the alleyway, trying to put out the inferno that raged where his face should be, while I yelled out helpful fire safety advice.

"Stop, and look both ways!" I yelled. "Reduce, reuse, recycle!"

When I noticed my date attempting to flee into the night, I was forced to make a hasty, ungentlemanly exit. I would have to remember to at least send the man a "Sorry I Spit Your Face on Fire" card. Exploding saliva is no excuse for poor manners, after all.

I managed to catch up to my lovely doe-eyed shock victim on the street, Ceramic Coating and noticed she was visibly shaken. Now, I am not a heartless man, so I did my best to comfort her, and hugged her reassuringly. After a minute of sniffling, she seemed to calm down. She looked perplexed all of a sudden, then pulled away and asked me what scent I was wearing.

"Madness," I told her, and smiled knowingly as horror crept across her face. Hells yeah! She'd totally do me now that she knew what a bad boy I really was."That's right: I've just introduced you to the void, sugar. Wanna bone now, or after the creeping horror violates your soul's orifices?"

"Don't worry," I continued, holding out a handful of slime, "it's safe, I brought protection. This is a gel condom. It's like a shapeshifter that goes inside your cooch."

As she bolted away into the fog, swatting at the half-seen shadowed tentacles, I couldn't help but wonder what had gone wrong. Then it dawned on me: the Imulsion! Of course she was worried!

"Wait," I called after her, "Is this because my semen is a Class-2 High Explosive? Don't worry! I'll shoot it out the window!"

But she was already gone.

I didn't quite know what to make of the night. Clearly something had gone wrong but--from my jiggling anal-bead transport to the dark scents of the Forgotten Gods to my Cock Decepticon--everything had worked exactly as I'd intended. Though I have to give high marks to all the products involved, Water Based Coatings I was still inexplicably left ending my date like every single other romantic experience I've ever had: Furious and unsatisfied. Luckily I still had a wounded hobo, an unsatisfied erection, high-explosive semen and a score to settle. The night wouldn't be a total wash.

You can pre-order Robert's book, Everything is Going to Kill Everybody: The Terrifyingly Real Ways the World Wants You Deadon Amazon, or find him on Twitter, Facebookand his own site, I Fight Robotsfor more tales of madness and second degree sexual assault on the homeless.


Review - Breville Electric Wok

See More Aboutchinese cooking equipmentwoksstir-fryingchinese cookingWhat sets this wok (and the entire Breville line) apart from other electric woks apart is the recessed butterfly heating element located around the wok base. While the wok doesn't quite live up to the manufacturer's claim that it "performs just like a traditional iron wok on a gas range," it does provide a more even heat distribution than many other electric woks on the market. Still, serious stir-fryers will probably not be satisfied with its performance. A greater concern for the casual Chinese cook is the possibility of scratches appearing in the non-stick coating.Pros and Cons:Pros: Superior performance compared to many other electric woks Sturdy design Non-stick surface makes for easy cleaning Detailed instruction booklet includes cooking tips and recipes Wok and detachable base are dishwasher safe Cons:  Expensive compared to other electric woks Non-stick surface can scratch Doesn’t quite live up to the hypeDescription1500 Watt Butterfly High Wall element Removable temperature control probe with 14 temperature settings plus a high sear (425 F.) setting for stir-frying 4-layer Quantanium non-stick cooking surface Quick release removable wok base Two looped side helper handles "Cook n Look" tempered glass lid, dome-shaped, with steam vent Comes with plastic spatula and instruction/recipe bookletGuide Review:Despite a rather high price tag, the Breville Electric Wok is one of the most popular electric woks on the market. Users love the wok's high heat capability and evenness of heat distribution. Its sturdy design, easy cleaning non-stick surface, and convenient quick release detachable base also get high ratings. So does the Teflon Coating accompanying booklet: along with detailed instructions on operating the wok, there are loads of cooking aids, including tips on stir-frying, a glossary of Asian ingredients, and a temperature chart for cooking various types of food. Plus, of course, recipes, from Stir-fry Prawns with Snow Peas to Nasi Goreng (Indonesia's take on fried rice),and an Indian eggplant curry.  Attention to detail shows in the wok's easy to grip side handles, and a cord that is deliberately short for safety reasons, with a finger hole in the power plug for easy and safe removal. Both the wok body and the removable base are dishwasher safe.  However, despite the manufacturer's claim that even metal spoons and spatulas are safe, several users have reported problems with the non-stick coating. (Guide note: despite carefully following instructions, limiting the amount of oil and using the plastic spatula provided, I noticed minor scratches on the non-stick surface after only a few uses. However, so far these haven't affected the wok's performance). This is the one possible flaw I found in an otherwise excellent product.  The Bottom Line: Compared to other electric woks, the Breville Electric Wok has a lot going for it. For those who prefer the convenience of an electric wok, I would give this product a thumbs up, with the caveat to be on the alert for issues with the nonstick coating, and to contact Breville if needed.  More About Woks: Before You Buy a WokHow to Season a Carbon Steel WokWhat Type of Oil Should You Use For Stir-frying?User Reviews
Reviews for this section have been closed.
 2 out of 5Breville Electric Wok DISAPPOINTED, Member cmp2491Being so thrilled with the Breville toaster, we purchased a Breville Wok, thinking ALL things Breville would be superior. PTFE Coatings How disappointed I was when I tried stir frying and it never quite took off and got hot enough. Last night I tried making Tempura using the wok and thinking the oil would get hot enough. Temperature probe never got about 325 degrees. This renders the Wok just about useless although I guess I can use as a warming pot if I serve buffet. TERRIBLY DISAPPOINTING.........
0 out of 0 people found this helpful.Related ArticlesHow to Season a Carbon Steel WokSeason a Carbon Steel Wokstir-frying with a frying pan - chinese cooking tipsDry-Fried Szechuan Beef Recipe with Carrots and PeppercornReview - Asian Kitchen Excalibur Nonstick Wok set

Painting Ceramic Tile Floors

To completely change the flooring in your home could cost in excess of $5,000 or far more depending on the size of the home and the type of flooring the you install. Ceramic tilefloorsare long lasting and they are durable but they can get outdated or dull if you've had them in your home for many years. There's no need to change the entire floor or to spend thousands of dollars on rugs just to cover the plain or dull ceramic tile floor. Special paint can be used to completely change the look of ceramic floors in a very short period of time and for very little money.If you can get creative, have some extra time and want to completely change the look of the ceramic tile floors in your home then painting the ceramic tile throughout the home is the fastest and most affordable option. Painting ceramic tile floors requires a special type of paint that is specifically formulated for ceramic tile but other than that, the entire project is similar to any other painting project-- a few drop cloths, some painters tape and paint brushes and your on your way to newly painted ceramic tile floors that look spectacular.
Supplies
-- Ceramic Tile Primer-- Ceramic Tile Paint-- Medium Grit Sandpaper-- Masking Tape-- Abrasive Cleanser and Scrub brush-- Paint Brush and paint roller-- Urethane Clear floor finish that is water-based
Step 1
Begin the painting project by prepping the ceramic tile floors for paint. This entails cleaning the floors to the absolute best of your ability. Remove all debris, mildew or any other grime that happens to be present on the ceramic tile floors. An abrasive cleanser and a scrub brush works best for this process. Make sure that the floors are as clean as possible to assure a good starting surface for the ceramic tile floor painting to begin.
Step 2
Using the sandpaper, gently scuff the entire ceramic tile floor to create a surface that the paint can bond to. For ceramic floor tiles that have a high gloss finish, the Ceramic Coatings sanding will remove some of the finish so that the paint has a texture and surface that it can stick to. There's no specific direction that the tile must be sanded in so just a good scuff will do.
Once you have sanded all of the tiles to be painted, use a broom to clean the dust and then use a damp mop or cloth to remove any remaining debris that resulted from sanding the ceramic floor tiles. It is imperative to make sure that the ceramic tile floor surface is clean before continuing with the painting project.
Step 3
Depending on the way that you want the paint to look on the floor tiles you need to use painter's tape or masking tape to tape off areas of the floor that you do not wish to show any paint. Grout lines may be taped if you do not want the grout to be painted, tiles that you do not want to be painted should also be taped. Now is also the time that you can use the masking tape to layout a specific design on the tiles that will not have paint. This is really where the creativity comes in with the ceramic tile floor painting project.Step 4
Use masking tape to tape off the baseboards or trim along the floors so that paint does not spatter onto those surfaces. Some possible options for taping off the walls or baseboards include using a wide painter's tape such as a two inch tape to do this or you may tape paper to create a thicker boarder Best Non Stick Coating that will be safe from paint. This process is simply to assure that paint stays only on the ceramic tiles and does not get onto the walls or baseboards around the room.
Step 5
Use a ceramic tile paint primer on the entire surface to be painted. The primer will be either an oil based primer or a shellac based primer. Follow the manufacturer's instructions when applying the paint primer to the ceramic tile floors. The primer should be left to dry for at least 4 hours before applying a second Ceramic Industrial Coatings coat to the ceramic tile floors. Some paint primers will have longer drying times than others so always follow the manufacturer's instructions on how long you should allow paint to dry between applications.
Step 6
Primer paint will often get small air pockets that will leave very minute bumps in the paint surface once dry. Using a fine grit sandpaper, sand the entire primed ceramic tile floor surface before continuing on with the ceramic tile floor painting project. After you have sanded the primed floor surface, use a broom to gently brush away and remaining dust that is left behind as a result of the sanding.
Step 7
Using a paintbrush, apply the ceramic tile floor paint beginning along the edges and the corners. After trimming out the entire room with the paint brush you can use a paint roller to apply paint to the rest of the floors in the room. More than one coat of ceramic tile floor paint can be applied in order to reach a desired tone just be sure to follow manufacturer's instructions on drying times in between coats of paint.
Once the final coat of paint has been applied allow the paint to cure over night before finishing the ceramic tile floor paint project. Once the paint has cured, use a water based urethane to seal the ceramic tile floor paint in. This will assure that when you mop the floors or clean the tile the paint will not be affected. For a higher gloss shine, 2-3 coats of the floor finish can be applied but each coat must dry over night. Do not place items on the tile until the urethane has dried for at least 48 hours to assure a solid cure.
Published byMary Lamphere
Mary is a freelance writer and SEO / SEM specialist.  Her work has been featured in a number of online publications and portals with specific focus on addictions, treatment, healthcare, real estate and trave...  View profile

2014年1月11日星期六

Are Chemicals in Drinking Water Giving People Cancer?

Traces of 18 unregulated chemicals were found in drinking water from more than one-third of U.S. water utilities in a nationwide sampling, according to new, unpublished research by federal scientists.

Included are 11 perfluorinated compounds, an herbicide, two solvents, caffeine, an antibacterial compound, a metal and an antidepressant, reports Environmental Health News.


While studies increasingly report newly emerging contaminants in wastewater, there has been little data on which ones are in drinking water. Researchers from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) analyzed single samples of untreated and treated water from 25 U.S. utilities that voluntarily participated in the project.

Twenty-one contaminants were detected—mostly in low concentrations of parts per trillion—in treated drinking water from at least nine of the utilities. Eighteen of the chemicals are not regulated under the federal Safe Drinking Water Act so utilities do not have to meet any limit or even monitor for them.

“The good news is the concentrations are generally pretty low,” said Dana Kolpin, a research hydrologist with the USGS who participated in the study. “But there’s still the unknown. Are there long-term consequences of low-level exposure to these chemicals?”

For many of the contaminants, little is known about potential human health effects of low doses. But one of the perfluorinated compounds, known as PFOA, has been linked to a variety of health problems, including cancer, among people in communities where water is contaminated by a chemical plant in West Virginia.

Of 251 chemicals, bacteria, viruses and microbes the scientists measured, 117 were not detected in any of the treated drinking water. Twenty-one were found in water from more than one-third of the 25 utilities (nine or more) and 113 were found in less than one-third (eight or fewer).

Four of the chemicals found in the samples—the metal strontium, the herbicide metolachlor, PFOS and PFOA—are on the EPA’s list of chemicals under consideration for drinking water standards. The EPA plans to make decisions regarding at least five of the contaminants on its list next year.

“We’re hoping through this work the EPA will do a much more intensive contaminant candidate list and develop new methods and requirements for drinking water plants,” said Edward Furlong, a scientist with the USGS who participated in the study.

Perfluorinated chemicals, which were found most frequently, are widely used Teflon Coating in a variety of industrial processes, including manufacture of some nonstick and stain-resistant food packaging, fabrics and cookware.

The two most common perfluorinated compounds, PFOS and PFOA, in the utilities’ water have been detected in the blood of nearly all people in the U.S.

A panel of scientists has concluded there is a “probable link” between PFOA in drinking water and high cholesterol, ulcerative colitis, thyroid disease, testicular cancer, kidney cancer and pregnancy-induced hypertension. The findings were based on people in Mid-Ohio Valley communities whose water was polluted with PFOA from a DuPont plant.

PFOS, used in Scotchgard until 3M phased it out in 2002, has been linked to attention disorders in children and thyroid disease in men.

The EPA has classified metolachlor as a possible human carcinogen based Heat Resistant Coating on studies of highly exposed rats. Strontium can affect bone growth, according to some animal studies that used doses much higher than those found in drinking water.

The perfluorinated compounds were at similar concentrations in the untreated and treated drinking water, suggesting that treatment techniques are largely unsuccessful. Only one plant was successful at removing them and it used activated carbon treatment.

Activated carbon, ozone and UV treatments are generally better at removal than traditional chlorine treatment, but such techniques are often prohibitively expensive, said EPA research chemist Susan Glassmeyer, who led the project.

“People resent having to pay anything for water,” she said. “There’s the thought that there’s a God-given right to have as much as we want but, if you want the cleanest water, these techniques take money.”

Treatment also can sometimes transform compounds into new ones, said Laurel Schaider, Silicone Coatings a research associate at the Harvard School of Public Health.

“Chlorination and other treatments technologies will remove some contaminants, but will react with others,” Schaider said. “Some compounds may appear to be removed but may be transformed to a chemical we know even less about.”

Glassmeyer said the utilities, which remain anonymous, represented a mix of large and small and used different water treatment technologies.

Preliminary findings of the study, which is expected to be published next year, were presented by the scientists at a toxicology conference in Nashville last month.

ICE 2007 FSCT's International Coatings Expo will be held in Toronto Oct

ICE 2007: FSCT's International Coatings Expo will be held in Toronto Oct. 3-5. Here is a look at what is planned for the three-day event at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]
  Focusing on the theme "Clean--Lean--Green," ICE 2007,which will be held in Toronto Oct. 3-5 at the Metro Toronto ConventionCentre, combines a variety of educational programs with the largestNorth American exhibition of raw materials, equipment and services forthe coatings manufacturing industry.
  At ICE 2007, the Federation of Societies for Coatings Technology(FSCT) will offer a wide array of educational opportunities designed toassist attendees in finding solutions to today's coatingschallenges.
  PRESHOW SHORT COURSES
  FSCT will host a series of preshow short courses. Among the one-dayshort courses that will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 2, will be a new courseon "Coatings for Automotive OEM." The ocus of the course willbe on the new technology trends, drivers and challenges that faceformulators and their suppliers. Topics to be covered include thefundamentals of coatings for automotive OEM applications, challenges formeeting new performance requirements, and the issues that impact productdevelopment. Global aspects of formulating for automotive OEMapplications will be addressed, as well as technology trends andregulatory issues.
  Other presentations scheduled include "OEM Paint Chemistry andProcesses: e-coat, Primer-Surfacers"--Tom Hockswender, PPG;"OEM Paint Chemistry and Processes: Basecoat,Clearcoat"--Monica Verma, Consultant; "Coatings forPlastics"--Phil Yaneff, DuPont; "UV Protection"--JimDelaney, Ciba; "Paint Application Issues and Solutions"--EinarEndregaard, Duur; and "Regulatory Drivers"--Tim Weingartz,Ford.
  REACH PROGRAM
  To help companies prepare for the impact of REACH legislation, theFSCT has developed a technical session to be offered during ICE 2007.Scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 4, the one-day program will encompasspresentations from all areas of the industry, and will provideinformation for raw material suppliers, formulators and downstreamusers.
  FUTURECOAT!
  This major technical conference, introduced last year by FSCT,examines the innovative methodologies and applications shaping thefuture of the coatings industry. This program features tracks withsessions ranging from green chemistry, formulations, pigments,waterborne, clearcoats and pretreatments. General interest sessions willexamine topics such as corrosion, nanotechnology, weathering andinstrumentation.
  NEW AT ICE 2007
  Wednesday show hours (12:00 noon to 5:00 p.m.) will be devotedentirely to the exhibits. For the first time, there will be no technicalpresentations or short courses taking place during this time.
  The number one requested addition to ICE is The New ProductsShowcase, which offers the opportunity to view products and servicesthat have recently been introduced by exhibitors.
  Also new this year is the Student Welcoming Committee, designed tointroduce students attending ICE to different aspects of the coatingsindustry.
  ICE 2007 EXHIBITION HOURS
  Oct. 3-12:00 noon-5:00 p.m.
  Oct. 4-9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
  Oct. 5-9:00 a.m.--12:00 noon
  The following companies are exhibiting at ICE 2007 in Toronto. Hereis a look at what they have planned at their booth and theproducts/services they will be promoting.
  20 Microns Ltd. Booth: 1004
  20 Microns is India's largest producer of white minerals Industry Coatings withan annual output of over 2,00,000 tons having advanced productiontechniques with strong a background in research and development andadvanced quality control to produce minerals of the highest standard andconsistent quality. The company has its headquarters at Vadodara,Gujarat, India. 20 Microns supplies globally to a diversity ofindustries including plastics, paint, paper, printing inks, powdercoatings, ceramic, rubber, adhesives, sealant, cement and concrete. Thecompany has its own captive mines to provide various products like aolin(hydrous and calcined), talc, baryte, mica and carbonates. The companyhas also started manufacturing synthetic products like barium sulphate,aluminum silicate, series of wax, matting agent and mineral-basedthickener.
  ACT Test Panels, Inc. Booth: 1007
  ACT Test Panels, Inc. offers a wide range of products including ACTCertified Test Panels; utility grade TRU Panels; appearance panelsincluding color, orange peel and powder smoothness standards; andcorrosion supplies for laboratories. In addition, ACT offerscompatibility testing services for manufacturers of adhesives, sealants,stamping fluids and mill oils to assess effect on phosphate, e-coat andpaint processes.
  Arkema, Inc. Booth: 422
  Arkema Inc. will display Orgasol ultra-fine polyamide powders.Coatings containing Orgasol powders exhibit excellent abrasion andscratch resistance. Orgasol is also used to impart surface texturingeffects (including soft feel), gloss control and antiblocking effects(control of friction coefficient and dry lubricant effect).
  BatchMaster Software. Booth: 709
  BatchMaster Software, Inc. has provided manufacturing softwaredesigned for process-batch manufacturers for over two decades with morethan 1,500 installations worldwide. BatchMaster's customers are inevery formula or recipe-based business, including the paint, ink andcoating industries. Some of the key benefits of using BatchMaster ERPinclude keeping accurate inventory, lot traceability recall, regulatorycompliance and just-in-time manufacturing resulting in lower productioncosts and improved customer service. Flexible, easy to learn and use,and scalable to grow with a process-batch manufacturing business, theBatchMaster team consists of over 100 professionals, bringing on goinginnovation to product offerings.
  Brenntag North Ameica. Booth: 521
  "Global logistics with local solutions." Brenntag is aglobal chemical distributor that offers specialty raw materials for thecoatings, graphic arts, adhesives and ink markets. Our strength isproviding high performance products combined with superior service andexperienced technical support for the most difficult formulationchallenges. Please visit our ICE exhibit to see our full line ofspecialty resins and coatings additives, with an emphasis on acrylics,silicones, polyesters, fumed silica, urethanes and UV additives.
  Burgess Pigment Co. Booth: 621
  Burgess specialty Thermo-Optic OPTIWHITE kaolin clay seriesfeaturing customer savings and "true internal wet hiding"visually demonstrated with exterior and interior formulations will beexhibited. Also to be featured are Burgess hydrous kaolin clay productsoffering improved incorporation and performance advantages in trade andindustrial primers and topcoats. Specific exterior exposure panels fromthe Burgess expanded test fence facility will be available.
  CEM Corporation. Booth: 522
  CEM Corporation, a leading global manufacturer of microwavelaboratory instrumentation, provides solutions in compositional testingfor the coatings industry. We will be introducing the new Teflon Spray Coating SAM-255Microwave Drying System at ICE 2007. The SAM-255 with IntelliTempInfrared Temperature Control provides rapid color matching with 5-minutedraw down drying, reducing drying times from hours to minutes withconstant reproducible results. The Smart System Moisture-Solids Analyzerprovides accurate results for high-, medium- and low-moisture samples inminutes.
  Cleveland Steel Container. Booth: 1621
  Cleveland Steel Container (CSC) offers various styles of steelpails including open head nested, open head straight sided and tighthead with sizes ranging from 2.5 gallons to 7.5 gallons. We offerunregulated steel pails for shipping hazardous materials andnon-regulated steel pails. CSC serves nationwide and ships throughoutthe U.S. from five manufacturing facilities: Niles OH; Quakertown, PA;Peotone, IL; Oakland, CA; and Kilgore, TX.
  Coatings World Magazine. Booth: 1104
  Coatings Worm is published 12 times per year and is road by over17,000 technical formulators, managers and marketing directors atcoatings manufacturers worldwide. Our staff of editors andcorrespondents, based in Asia, Europe, and the Americas, provide themost global information available on the U.S. $80+ billion coatingsindustry. Please stop by our booth for a complimentary issue as well asa special free subscription offer for show attendees.
  Cognis Corp. Booth: 1311
  Cognis is a leading worldwide supplier of specialty surfactants,additives, and rosins designed for applications in consumer coatings,industrial, and adhesives applications. Cognis utilizes a wide range oftechnology platforms in helping its customers find technical solutionsto ever changing regulations, while using high performance materialswhich are solvent-free, APEO-free and heavy metal-free, including butnot limited to: theology modifiers, defoamers, coalescents, dispersants,surfactants, epoxy curing agents, acrylic polyols, monomers, andoligomers. Innovative technological developments in coatings additivesand rosins primarily based on renewable resources and environmentallyfriendly materials are the focus of Cognis' new products displayedat ICE 2007. At Cognis, we have the know-how and formulation expertiseto co-develop the best cost effective, high performance, market-orientedsolutions for our customers and development partners. Stop by booth#1311 and learn about the benefits of partnering with Cognis.
  Columbia Machine, Inc. Booth: 1506
  Stop by booth 1506 to find the palletizing solution that will meetyour needs. Columbia Machine manufacturers a complete line offloor-level, high-level and robotic palletizing solutions that arecapable of stacking cases, trays, pails, bags and more. In addition topalletizing equipment, Columbia manufactures a complete line of loadtransfer systems that optimize facilities/ lift truck productivity byefficiently interchanging pallet load base types. Visitwww.palletizing.com.
  Croda Uniqema, Inc. (formerly ICI Uniqema). Booth: 1113
  Croda Uniqema, a global supplier of specialty chemicals, has abroad portfolio of surfactants, dispersants, emulsifiers, buildingblocks and oleochemicals for coatings applications. Croda Uniqemaenables customers to meet current challenges by providing a range ofeffects and applications, innovative products, applications expertise,technical support and a reliable, flexible supply network. Featuredproducts include nonmigratory surfactant solutions for waterborneformulatious that achieve zero-VOC with comparable performance tosolvent-based coatings. Visit us at Booth 1113 at ICE 2007 in Toronto tolearn more.
  DeFelsko Corp. Booth: 1514
  U.S. manufacturer of coating thickness gages and inspectioninstruments including the PosiTector 6000, PosiTest DFT and the newPosiTector 200 series of coating thickness gages. The simple, durableand accurate PosiTector 6000 Series and PosiTest DFT are ideal formeasuring coating thickness on all metal substrates while the PosiTector200 series uses ultrasonic technology to easily and accurately measurecoatings on non-metals including wood, concrete and more. Also featuredare the Digital PosiTest Adhesion Tester, PosiTector Dew Point Meter tomeasure and record climatic parameters and the PosiTector UltrasonicThickness Gage ideal for measuring remaining wall thickness.
  Degussa Corp. Booth: 1601
  Degussa's showcase of paint and coatings ingredients includesAEROSIL fumed silicas and specialty oxides, designed for controllingrheology and improving scratch resistance as well as pigment suspension;ACEMATT matting agents, whose superior quality and high mattingefficiency ensure superior formulations for all coating types; and INXELpigment preparations, the next generation of easy to disperse granularpigments.
  Draiswerke, Inc. Booth: 527
  The new Drais NanoStar Media Mill is specifically designed toproduce nano-materials previously unattainable. The highly efficientenergy utilization during nano-grinding via the use of ultra-smallgrinding media (down to 20 micron), superior product temperaturecontrol, and the elimination of metal contamination are some of the keyfeatures of the new NanoStar. Various sizes are available with linearmill scale-up based on power consumption.
  Eastern Michigan University. Booth: 224
  The Polymer and Coatings program at Eastern Michigan Universityprovides Corilon degrees in polymer and coatings technology at the B.S. and M.S.levels. The College of Technology (COT) provides a Ph.D. in Technologywhich can have a concentration in Coatings Technology. The CoatingsResearch Institute (CRI) in COT provides research and developmentservices, testing, consultation, and training through relevant shortcourses to the industry. The CRI also sponsors a yearly symposium onSmart Coatings.
  Everlight USA, Inc. Booth: 1330
  Everlight USA Inc. is a subsidiary of Everlight Chemical IndustrialCorporation, a leading manufacturer of specialty chemicals and UVstabilizers in Taipei, Taiwan. Founded in 1972, Everlight is the secondlargest producer of benzotriazoles in the world and offers a completeline of benzophenones and hindered amine light stabilizers as well. Thehigh quality Eversorbs are used in plastic, paint and coatingapplications, and provide enhanced resistance against physicaldegradation and discoloration caused by ultraviolet light. Everlight isISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certified since 1996. Everlight USA covers all ofthe Americas and ships from its warehouses in Charlotte, NC. With thehigh quality of its products, its outstanding application know-how andit's excellent customer service, Everlight has become a supplier tomany major manufacturing companies. We offer solutions at competitiveprices. This exhibit will be used to make the Canadian market familiarwith our products which are sold through Canadian Color & Chemicals,Ltd.
  Graphic Technology, Inc. Booth: 1411
  Graphic Technology, Inc. (GTI) will exhibit the GTI ColorMatcherSeries of premier critical color inspection systems. Available in threesizes, features include five light sources, automatic light sourcesequencing and the GTI ColorGuard II timing center. For smaller samplesizes, the GTI MiniMatcher viewing systems for critical color inspectionand color matching will be on display, along with the PDV-2e/M portablemultisource viewing system.
  Hockmeyer Equipment. Booth: 1021
  Providing process solutions around the world. Hockmeyer EquipmentCorp. is a leading supplier of grinding, dispersion and processequipment satisfying the needs of the cosmetics, paint, ink, coatingsand adhesives industries. Our team of support professionals along withengineering services, maintenance management and laboratory testing willassure a dosed loop system for your product processing needs.
  ICE Show Daily. Booth: 1104
  The ICE Show Daily is a live newspaper that is published by RodmanPublishing. It is printed each day and distributed at the ICE Show. Anelectronic version is delivered to thousands of coatings readersworldwide each day as well.
  Imerys. Booth: 902
  Imerys is the premier global supplier of mineral additives to thecoatings industry. Our product portfolio features ground andprecipitated calcium carbonates, feldspar, mica and a line ofwater-washed, delaminated and calcined kaolins. As the leading mineralsupplier to the coatings industry, our technical teams are constantlydeveloping materials to meet the needs of the marketplace, includingenvironmentally responsible materials to meet today's challenges.Demonstrations will be available of our new customer-oriented,product-focused website to aid formulators.
  Infratrol Manufacturing. Booth: 1602
  Infratrol Manufacturing is introducing the EcoFlex line of energyefficient, low emission, modular mini-powder coating paint systems.EcoFlex powder systems are designed with lean manufacturing in mind bybeing the first modular powder system that can be installed, expanded oreven relocated over a weekend. A wide variety of configurations areavailable with a footprint small enough to fit virtually any productionarea. An electrically heated EcoFlex line has very low energyconsumption for huge savings over standard direct-fired gas systems.Line speeds from 4fpm to 13fpm per minute with many options available.EcoFlex ... Think Lean...Think Green.
  Inline Services, Inc. Booth: 511
  Inline Services, Hiltap Fittings specializes in complete solutionsto product recovery pigging systems for paint and related products.Pigging systems are used for product displacement, batching and linecleaning in process plants. Equipment to launch, receive and monitorpigs will be displayed as well as piggable manifolds and LQC safetyconnectors. In addition to a full line of pigging equipment, feasibilitystudies, engineering and turnkey services are provided.
  Ink World Magazine Booth: 1104
  Ink World is the largest monthly trade magazine in the worldcovering the US $14+ billion global printing ink industry, reaching over6,000 subscribers worldwide. Ink World's editors and correspondentsprovide extensive and accurate reporting with incisive articles on thecompanies, the people, and the trends in the global printing inkindustry. Please stop by our booth for a complimentary issue as well asa special free subscription offer for show attendees.
  ISP Booth: 1012
  International Specialty Products (ISP) is highlighting its patentedand cost-efficient IPBC water-based fungicide/algaecide, FUNGITROL 920,for the protection of coating films against defacement by molds/algae,and its patented BIT water-based NUOSEPT 498 for in-can preservation. Inaddition, new multi-active, broad-spectrum combination industrialbiocides, NUOSEPT W and NUOSEPT BMC 422, are being introduced asbroad-spectrum in-can preservatives. All four products are members ofISP's CLEANGUARD family of "green" biocides, fungicides,and algaecides.
  Kenrich Petrochemicals Booth: 701
  Ken-React titanates, zirconates and aluminates bend, catalyze andphosphatize forming 1.5-nanometer, atomic, monolayers on pigments,extenders and polymers in waterborne, high solids and powder coatingsystems to benefit adhesion, viscosity, dispersion, anticorrosion, flameretardance, antiaging, acid-resistance, hydrophobicity, anti-tanninstaining, gloss, reverse impact, mandrel bend and nanoparticleexfoliation. New Ken-React hybrid titanates include QB 046 for waterphase nanoexfoliation and CP-03 for MEKP unsaturated polyesterbubble-free gel coats. Ken-Stat antistatic agents are transparent,permanent, non-blooming and non-moisture dependent. Kenplast productsare nonreactive and reactive diluents.
  King Industries Booth: 622
  King will be offering "extreme formula makeovers" in theform of technical information on all of the company's highperformance additives including: NACURE and K-CURE Catalysts for aminothermoset system; K-KAT Catalysts for urethanes and cast elastomers;NACURE Super Catalysts for epoxies, K-FLEX Resin Modifiers; K-SPERSEDispersants; NACORR Rust and Corrosion Inhibitors; as well as DISPARLONThixotropes and Surface Control Additives.
  KW Container Booth: 512
  KW Container, the world's largest producer of plastic gallon,quart, pint and half-pint paint containers presents a new all-plasticcontainer featuring a patented closure system and proprietary surfacetreatment for unrivaled performance, quality and technology. Go"green" with KW and save. The container is made from 100%recycled material that is 100%    recyclable, and    KW Container--anaffiliate of KW Plastics--is providing assistance to its customers inestablishing sustainable closed loop container programs tailored totheir specific needs. The all-plastic container is currently availablein gallon and quart capacities.
  Lanxess Corp Booth: 1612
  Visit ICE Booth 1612 to find out how Lanxess    Corporation'sMaterial Protection Products business unit can be your solutionsprovider. We recognize the increasing need for green chemistries andsystems. We offer VOC-free and low-VOC biocides and preservatives forin-can and dry-film applications. We provide microbiological andanalytical services. We have regulatory experts, and a nationwide sales,distribution and customer service network. Visit www.mpp.us.lanxess.com.Lanxess also offers paint additives, modifiers and solvent-free pigmentpreparations for use in low-VOC or VOC-free systems. Visitwww.us.lanxess.com.
  Lubrizol Advanced Materials (formerlay Noveon, Inc.)  Booth: 1112
  Lubrizol Advanced Materials, Inc. supplies a comprehensiveportfolio of products for use in paints and coatings applications. Ourcomplete line includes resins and polymers, acrylic emulsions,polyurethane dispersion, solution acrylics, and vinylchloride resins, aswell as specialty additives--including surface modifiers,hyperdispersants, rheology control agents, and flow promoters--that helpenhance product performance.
  Lubrizol products are used in paints and coatings for plastics,architectural, wood, and metal surfaces, and are backed with a globalservice and support network that is unmatched in the industry.
  [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]
  Mar-Kov Computer Systems. Booth: 623
  Mar-Kov CMS (Chemical Management System) is a complete modular ERPsoftware solution for paint and coatings manufacturers. Mar-Kov CMSprovides cutting edge manufacturing execution, bar-coded lot/containerinventory control, formula development and costing, quality control andtesting, and much more. Mar-Kov's systems are specifically designedfor chemical manufacturers in the paint industry, with features such asintegrated scales, MSDS/COA management, automated VOC calculations,electronic quarantine of materials to be tested, equipment cleaning andtotal traceability throughout.
  Micro Powders. Booth: 1522
  Micro Powders will exhibit its specialty line of micronized waxadditives. Some new product technologies will include PropylFluo 824, anexceptional PP/PTFE combination wax for burnish resistance and glosscontrol. Others include the AquaTex series, which are micronizedhigh-density polyolefins that provide a unique texture effect forwaterborne systems, and the MicrospeX series, which provides alightweight aggregate appearance in concrete coatings. For moreinformation visit www.micropowders.com or call 914.793.4058.
  Morehouse Cowles Booth: 1304
  Morehouse Cowles is the leading designer and manufacturer ofvertical-shaft milling, dissolver and disperser equipment and impellerblades. A true partner during every step of the process,MorehouseCowles' innovative engineering and support teams workclosely with each customer to develop and implement customized equipmentand technology.
  Myers Engineering Booth 1122
  Myers Engineering Inc. has been supplying mixing equipment to anextended line of loyal customers for well over sixty years. Calling onthose years and assuring the correct staff members are part of our team,we are assisting that family of customers in stream lining processes forefficiency, profitability and safety.
  It would be our pleasure to brainstorm with you to look into thecoming years for upgrades and improvements that will help you reach yourproduction goals.
  We are supporting our industry and will be in Toronto withenthusiasm. Our booth will be simple but our commitments to ourcustomers will be robust.
  Nichem Booth: 413
  Nichem manufactures acid catalysts that are p-TSA and DDBSA-based,blocked and not blocked. Nichem manufactures a line ofanticorrives(chromates and chrome-free). Nichem also offers tollprossing.
  Premier Mill, An SPX Process Equipment Operation Booth: 1413
  As a brand of SPX Process Equipment, Premier Mill is known globallyas a leading manufacturer of milling, mixing and dispersion equipmentfor specialty process applications. Examples of machinery, spare partsand improved technologies to meet industry demand will be on display.Our commitment has resulted in the development of a long list of productimprovements necessary to keep customers on the leading edge oftechnology. Visit us at Booth #1413.
  Q-Lab Corp Booth: 1011
  Will your products last outdoors? Don't guess when you cantest. Q-Lab is the global provider of Q-Panel brand test substrates andweathering equipment and services. The fullspectrum Q-Sun is anaffordable xenon test chamber. The QUV is the world's most widelyused weathering tester. The QUV, Q-Sun, Q-Fog and Q-Lab Florida outdoorweathering exposures are used to improve the weatherability andcorrosion resistance of products for industrial, commercial and consumermarkets.
  Quick Blades, Inc Booth: 1008
  It's time to change your blade! Quickblades, Inc. standard SawTooth, Turbo Blade or revolutionary Turbo/Pump blade will make shortwork of your dispersion needs. We provide quality replacement dispersionblades at competitive prices. With Tungsten Carbide or our newestArmacor coating for abrasion resistance or PTFE for ease of cleaning, weoffer varieties of coatings for every need. Come to Booth #1008 to entera drawing for a free dispersion blade and also take 10% off the listprice of any blade order placed at the ICE show. Please contact us atsales@quickblades.net or visit our website at www.quickblades.net.
  Rio Tinto Minerals Booth: 1301
  Rio Tinto Minerals will showcase talc, chlorite and berate productsthat are engineered for improved performance in many types of paints andcoatings. Rio Tinto Minerals will highlight the expanded Vertal productline which is a unique, platy and low binder demand mineral pigment thatis an excellent choice for low-VOC architectural paints and primers. Forindustrial paints and primers, Rio Tinto Minerals engineered talcproducts function as anti-corrosive pigments and reduce filmpermeability while improving coating rheology. Please stop byLuzenac's exhibit at ICE 2007 to learn more about the benefits ofRio Tinto Minerals in paints and coatings.
  Sinochem Jiangsu Booth: 309
  Sinochem Jiangsu is the key chemical subsidiary of SinochemCorporation, a "Fortune Global 500" company. The ChemicalsDivision of Sinochem Jiangsu plays an important role in the fields ofsemi-finished/auxiliary products, coating raw materials, variousintermediates, metal salts and oxide with a total turnover of more than$1 billion dollars during the past three decades.
  Troy Corp Booth: 504
  Troy Corporation's zero-VOC products and solutions help globalcoating manufacturers to not only solve problems, but meet or exceedstringent safety and environmental standards. Troy products help coatingmanufacturers formulate "green," high quality, aqueouscoatings with low or no VOC that exhibit better performance thantraditional products. Troy zero-VOC products include dry filmpreservatives Polyphase 663 and 678, incan preservatives Mergal K10N and399, and the wetting agent TroysolTM ZLAC. Visit Troy at Booth #504 orat www.troycorp.com for more information.
  United Soybean Board Booth: 1125
  The United Soybean Board (USB) is a farmer-funded organizationworking with industry, academia and government to commercialize stable,waterborne architectural coatings; high performance VOC-free coatingsfor industrial applications; soy polyols for polyurethane coatings; newUV/EB-cured printing inks and coatings; and powder coatings. The USBrepresents over 600,000 U.S. soybean farmers.
  Worlee Chemie GmbH Booth: 1213
  Worlee-Chemie GmbH presents at booth 1213, together with itsAmerican agents and distributors a full range of environmentallyfriendly resins and additives. For example, the water-based alkydemulsions WorleeSol E, which do not contain any emulsifiers. Therefore,paints and lacquers based on this resins have a very good and earlywater resistance, they are fast drying and have a high gloss and a goodadhesion to a variety of surfaces. The additives WorleeAdd, improvesurface wetting, slip, anti blocking, mar resistance, adhesion orprevent flash rust and foam.
  X-Rite Corp Booth: 608
  From municipal infrastructure to classic architecture, paints andcoatings illuminate, preserve and protect. Globalization is producing aconsolidated approach to product development and application that alsodemands an equal response in color measurement. X-Rite offers solutionswhich connect color accurately throughout the entire process, ultimatelyreducing costs through product scrap, production downtime, off-colorproduct shipments and rework. We offer tools at every step including,non-contact in-line solutions, portable instruments, benchtopinstruments, software applications and visual products.
COPYRIGHT 2007 Rodman PublishingNo portion of this article can be reproduced without the express written permission from the copyright holder.Copyright 2007 Gale, Cengage Learning. All rights reserved.

First Look Fiesta Cookware

See More AboutcookwarefiestaNow Fiesta fans can not only eat off their favorite collectible, they can cook with it as well. Homer Laughlin China, the company that makes Fiesta dinnerware, has developed a line of Fiesta cookwarein conjunction with The Cookware Company. The cookware includes enameled cast iron Dutch ovensand individual covered casseroles, as well as stainless steel pieces with a tri-ply base, and aluminum cookware with a Thermolon ceramic nonstick coating that is PTFE- and PFOA-free and heat-safe up to 800˚F. Ceramic Coating The aluminum cookware has rubber stay-cool handles, measurement marker rings on the inside, and universal lids that fit several different pot shapes. The cookware is induction-compatible as well, and has an eco-friendly bent: some pieces are made from recycled aluminum and no post-consumer paper is used in the packaging.
The cookware is initially available in Scarlet, Cobalt, Ivory and Turquoise, four colors that are among the longtime bestsellers of the company's rotating selection of 15 colors, and also coordinate with the broadest number of dinnerware colors.
The Fiesta cookware is available in July 2012 and will sell for around $29 to $129. Look for it at department stores, catalogs, specialty retailers and online stores.
Suggested Reading10 Cooking Equipment No-NosChoosing the Best CookwareBasic Kitchen ChecklistRelated ArticlesCompany Profile: Fiesta ChinaFiesta Dinnerware Marigold - Homer Laughlin Non Stick Coating Spray 75th Anniversary Fiesta Marigol...Company Profile: FisslerBest Cookware BrandHot Finds from the 2012 Housewares Show

Casts and Splints



If you've ever broken a bone or know someone who has, chances are you're familiar with casts and splints. Doctors use them to keep bones from moving and to support injured limbs while they heal.

Casts and splints may seem like a nuisance, but they're a key part of the healing process. To keep them working as they should (and avoid a longer healing time), they need proper care.
Here are some cast facts, as well as tips on taking care of a cast until it's time to have it removed.
Types of Casts and SplintsAll casts and splints serve essentially the same purpose:
They keep broken or injured bones from moving so they can heal Non Stick Coating properly.They support the muscles of injured limbs to help reduce pain and swelling.The difference between casts and splints is the material used to make them and the reasons why each is used.
Doctors use splints for minor fracturesand for newly broken bones if the area around the injury is swollen. When there's swelling, splints are a better choice than casts because a cast can get too tight and affect a person's circulation.
Doctors will usually replace a splint on a broken bone with a cast after the swelling has gone down. The stronger, closed cast will provide more protection during the time it takes for a broken bone to knit back together.
CastsCasts are sort of like big, stiff bandages with two layers. The inside layer, which rests against the skin, is made of soft cotton. The hard outer layer prevents a broken bone from moving. It's usually made from one of two materials:
Plaster of Paris. You may have used this for school art projects. A heavy white powder is mixed with water to form a thick paste that hardens quickly. Plaster casts are heavier than fiberglass casts and can start to dissolve if they get wet.Fiberglass. This type of moldable plastic is available in many different colors. Fiberglass casts are lighter and cooler than plaster casts. The outer layer of a fiberglass cast is water resistant, but the inner layer is not, although it's possible to get a waterproof liner for a fiberglass cast. PTFE Spray Coating The doctor or technician who puts the cast on will decide if a waterproof liner is appropriate.If a person needs a cast that goes around the foot, doctors may use a "walking cast."

SplintsA splint is like a partial cast — a section of hard material that's held in place with an elastic bandage or Velcro straps. Like casts, splints usually have a soft cotton layer inside. The outer layer of a splint can be made from the same materials as a cast or it can be a pre-made piece of stiff metal or plastic surrounded by strong fabric.
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How Are Casts and Splints Put On?If you need a cast, here's what to expect:
First, a doctor or cast technician wraps the injured area in several layers of soft cotton. This will be the soft inner layer of the cast.Next, the plaster of Paris or fiberglass that will form the outer layer is soaked in water.The doctor or cast tech then wraps the plaster or fiberglass around the soft inner layer. The plaster or fiberglass will be wet at first, but it will quickly dry to a hard, protective covering.Sometimes doctors will make tiny cuts in the sides of a cast to allow room for swelling.The process is similar for splints:
The doctor or cast technician starts by placing a layer of cotton around the injured area.Next, he or she will place the splint over the cotton. The splint is already hard, so there's no drying like there is with a cast.The tech or doctor will wrap an elastic bandage around the splint or, if the splint is pre-made, Velcro straps will be used to hold the splint in place.If the doctor says it's OK to remove the splint, you and your parent will get instructions on how to do this at home.When a cast or splint is first put on, the doctor might tell you to keep your injured limb elevated as much as possible for the first few days. This helps reduce swelling. If you're using a "walking cast" on your foot or leg, you'll need to avoid walking on it until the plaster or fiberglass used to make it is completely dry.
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Taking Care of Casts and Splints
Casts and splints need to stay in good shape in order to do their jobs properly and allow bones to heal the way they should.
Follow these tips to help keep your cast or splint as strong and as comfortable as possible while you have it on:
Keep it dry. Most casts and splints are not waterproof, so it's very important to make sure they don't get wet. This is especially true with plaster of Paris casts. Casts and splints that get wet can lose their shape and may not be able to offer an injured limb the support it needs. Wet cotton lining also can lead to a rash or infection inside the cast. For baths and showers, you may have to cover the cast or splint with a plastic bag or special waterproof sleeve. If your cast gets wet, contact the doctor right away.Keep foreign objects out. If the skin inside your cast starts to itch, don't try to scratch it with anything like a coat hanger or pencil. They could get stuck inside the cast. Plus, scratching the skin inside a cast can cause an infection. Don't pour any lotions or oils inside the cast either, as they will make the lining wet and could cause a rash. The best way to relieve itching is to use a blow dryer set on "cool" to blow air into the cast.Check for cracks. Inspect the cast regularly Ceramic Coatings for any cracks or tears. If you see one, contact the doctor right away — cracks can mean a cast isn't working as well as it should. Also let a doctor know if your cast gets hit or crushed or if you notice a weak spot. In many cases, technicians can make a simple repair to the cast without having to change it.Keep an eye out for problems. If the cast causes your fingers or toes to tingle; lose feeling; or turn blue, white, or purple, let a parent or school nurse know so your doctor can be contacted right away. The doctor will want to change the cast if it's too tight. Also let a parent, teacher, or school nurse know if your limb starts to swell or if the skin around the edges of the cast turns red or raw.Don't alter the cast. It's OK to have friends and family write or draw on your cast (permanent markers work best). But don't be tempted to break off parts of the cast or pull out the cotton lining. It could affect how well your injury heals.BackContinue
Signs of a ProblemGet in touch with your doctor if you notice any of these things:
a feverincreased pain that doesn't go away with ice, elevation, and/or pain medicationextreme tightness that leads to a numb or tingly feeling in your hand or footloss of movement in your toes or fingersblisters, rashes, or raw spots on the skin inside or around the castan unusual smell or discharge coming from inside the castHow Are Casts Removed?Once your limb has healed and the doctor says it's OK, a technician or doctor will remove the castusing a special saw. The saw's blade is dull. It's the vibrations that break the cast, not the blade, so it can't hurt your skin. Never try to remove a cast on your own. You could end up re-injuring yourself (and needing a new cast just when you thought it was all over).
Your skin may look and feel a little weird when your limb comes out of the cast. It might be dry, flaky, or scaly, and the hair might look thicker and darker than usual. Your muscles might also appear Teflon Coating smaller and thinner. This is all normal and temporary.
You'll need to take it easy and maybe do some exercises to get your limb back in shape, but before too long everything should be back to the way it used to be.
Reviewed by: Elana Pearl Ben-Joseph
Date reviewed: September 2011
Back1• 2• 3• 4For TeensFor KidsFor ParentsMORE ON THIS TOPICDealing With Broken BonesStress FracturesBabysitting: Dealing With Broken BonesBroken BonesWhat to Expect When Your Cast Comes OffContact UsPrintAdditional resourcesSend to a friendReprint guidelinesBookmark this pageShare this page using:What are these?
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Back to School Shopping 101 Where to find lunch bags in Chicago

Back to schoolshoppers searching for unique and cool lunchboxes, lunchbags, and lunch sacks have a variety of cute (and often ecofriendly) options in Chicago right now.
Goodbyn lunchbox at Green Genes
Chicago ecofriendly boutique Green Genesat 5111 N. Clark Ave. Teflon Coating Pans has just received a supply of Goodbyn lunchboxesin blue, pink, green, and red/orange. These ecofriendly lunch containers are a hot item this season, so call Green Genes at 773.944.9850 to reserve one ASAP if interested. Once this shipment sells out, Green Genes will not be receiving another batch until late September. Parents can also place orders through the Goodbyn Web site, but currently lunchboxes will not ship until September 10 or later.
Functional and adorable Goodbyn lunchboxes are both reusable and (eventually) recyclable, and their compartments are designed to keep each food item in kids' lunches separate. Children can personalize their Goodbyn lunchboxes with included cute stickersshaped like letters, body parts, and even allergy labels. Parents and teachers can visit the Goodbyn Web site to find tipson everything from healthy recipes to how to pack waste-free lunches.
Ecofriendly lunch bags at nat and helens
Organic baby store nat and helensat 3125 N. Broadway is carrying Mimi the Sardine lunchsacks and lunch bags (lunchbugs), as well as Mimi the Sardine backpacks.
Mimi the Sardine's earth-friendly cotton bags are coated with a water-based acrylic Wear Resistant Coatings coating, and all of their products are CPSIA compliant and Oeko-Tex certified. Each is decorated with playful and brightly colored patterns like flowers or hybrid cars.
Lunchbags and lunchboxes at Twinkle Twinkle Little One
Chicago boutique Twinkle Twinkle Little Oneis carrying cute soft Dante Beatrix lunch bags and metal MacBeth lunchboxes. Each Dante Beatrix lunch box is made from laminated canvas, free of pthalates or lead, and decorated with cute images like a cartoon gorilla or a shark. The MacBeth lunchboxes are shaped like a classic retro lunch box and covered with stylish patterns like pale green dots.
Exclusive lunchboxes at giggle
Chicago baby and toddler boutique giggleat 2116 North Halsted Street also carries Mimi the Sardine lunchbugs, as well as two Dante Beatrix lunchboxes in styles exclusive to giggle – a cute blue boy robot and a cute pink girl robot.
PVC-free lunch bags at Red Balloon Co.
Chicago kids store The Red Balloon Co.is carrying a line of PVC-free and Silicon Coating pthalate-free insulated Four Peas lunch bags in a variety of cute styles and colors. Visit The Red Balloon Co. in Bucktown at 2060 N. Damen Ave. and in Andersonville at 5407 N. Clark Ave.
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