Hercules Chemical Company Inc.

John Wrobleski

Fred Richard Scholer

A sealant is provided that possesses many or all of the characteristics of conventional thread sealants, and allows application with improved smoothness and uniformity of application. Sealants in accordance with the invention utilize engineered fibers such as melamines like Basofill and polyaramids such as Kevlar in its composition. Engineered fibers offer consistency and uniformity that other previously used sealants lack. Engineered fibers can improve the gap filling characteristics of the sealant, as well as the resistance of the sealant to chemicals and high pressures. Engineered fibers tend to have very high strength and low density.

Thread sealants with engineered fibers

Generally speaking, in accordance with the invention, a putty is provided that can include many or all of the handling characteristics of a traditional plumber's putty, but with reduced staining qualities. Such putty can facilitate substantially stain free installations. Putties in accordance with the invention can contain combinations of polymers or oligomers, solvents, fillers and optional rubbery materials. A composition according to the invention is preferably sufficiently stain-free to be used on porous stone, such as marble and granite, without damaging the appearance of the stone. This is achieved by eliminating oil completely, or at least substantially, or restricting their ability to cause stains sufficiently. Because compositions of the invention can be made to be free of oils, they can also have the effect of eliminating the greasy feeling to the hands, which can occur when handling traditional putty. Putties in accordance with preferred embodiments of the invention can provide a degree of tackiness for adhesion and gap fill purposes during installation, as well as a degree of abrasiveness so that pressure from the tightening process will not cause the putty to slip. Of these benefits, one particularly important advantage is the lack of staining on most, if not all, surfaces traditionally used to finish kitchens and baths, including porous stones and other porous materials, such as unglazed ceramics.

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Andover, NJ, United States of America

John Wrobleski