Showing papers by "3M published in 1998"

Method of planarizing the upper surface of a semiconductor wafer

Abstract: This invention pertains to a method of modifying or refining a surface of a wafer suited for semiconductor fabrication. This method may be used to modify a wafer having an unmodified, exposed surface comprised of a layer of a second material deployed over at least one discrete feature of a first material attached to the wafer. A first step of this method comprises contacting and relatively moving the exposed surface of the wafer with respect to an abrasive article, wherein the abrasive article comprises an exposed surface of a plurality of three-dimensional abrasive composites comprising a plurality of abrasive particles fixed and dispersed in a binder and maintaining contact to effect removal of the second material. In a second step, the contact and relative motion are continued until an exposed surface of the wafer has at least one area of exposed first material and at least one area of exposed second material.

Indirect bonding method and adhesive for orthodontic treatment

Abstract: A method of indirect bonding used in orthodontic treatment includes the steps of placing a first component of an adhesive on base structure of an orthodontic appliance and a second component of the adhesive on portions of a patient's tooth. The appliance is connected to a transfer tray, and the transfer tray is placed over the tooth such that the first component and the second component contact each other and react to provide a bond for securing the appliance to the tooth. The bond has sufficient strength within two minutes and preferably within 1.5 minutes of the time that the first component contacts the second component to enable removal of the tray from the tooth without significantly changing the position of the appliance on the tooth.

Catalyst for membrane electrode assembly and method of making

Abstract: Nanostructured elements are provided for use in the electrode of a membrane electrode assembly for use in fuel cells, sensors, electrochemical cells, and the like. The nanostructured elements comprise acicular microstructured support whiskers bearing acicular nanoscopic catalyst particles which may comprise alternating layers of catalyst materials, which may comprise a surface layer that differs in composition from the bulk composition of the catalyst particles, and which may demonstrate improved carbon monoxide tolerance.

Diffuse reflective articles

Abstract: Diffuse reflective materials proximate to a structure formed by thermally induced phase separation of a thermoplastic polymer and a diluent providing enhanced flexibility and reflectivity especially in the visible wavelengths of 380-730 nanometers are described. Such materials find a wide variety of application among combinations with other reflective layers. The diffuse reflective articles are useful in backlight units of liquid crystal displays, lights, copy machines, projection system displays, facsimile apparatus, electronic blackboards, diffuse white standards, photographic lights and the like.

Removable adhesive tape laminate and separable fastener

Abstract: An adhesive tape construction is removable from one or more objects to which it is adhered and which is reusably separable within its construction so that an object can be separated from another and subsequently reconnected with one another. The adhesive tape construction can be used to bond the other opposed surfaces of objects, including rigid objects such as a picture frame to a wall, where no portion of the adhesive tape construction projects from between the objects, and which subsequently affords easy separation of the objects without damage to either of them. More specifically, the adhesive tape construction includes a stretch release adhesive tape structure combined with a reusable connector surface.

Membrane electrode assembly

Abstract: A membrane electrode assembly is provided comprising an ion conducting membrane and one or more electrode layers that comprise nanostructured elements, wherein the nanostructured elements are in incomplete contact with the ion conducting membrane. This invention also provides methods to make the membrane electrode assembly of the invention. The membrane electrode assembly of this invention is suitable for use in electrochemical devices, including proton exchange membrane fuel cells, electrolyzers, chlor-alkali separation membranes, and the like.

Method and system for remotely viewing and configuring output from a medical imaging device

Abstract: A method and system for remotely viewing and configuring output from a medical imager is described. A medical imager having an embedded web server generates an HTML document according to medical images received from various medical modalities. Imaging information is communicated in the HTML document to allow a remote machine to manipulate the images and display the images in a manner that accurately represents their printed output by the imager. The invention thus provides accurate viewing of the medical images from a remote machine and facilitates remote configuration of the medical imager. Other advantages include the ability to easily select conversion mechanisms best suited for specific requirements of the hospital's medical modalities without traveling to the hospital and burdening medical staff. The present invention also allows for remote monitoring of operation statistics such as usage of imaging media and other supplies.

Biocompatible compounds for pharmaceutical drug delivery systems

Abstract: Methods, compounds, and medicinal formulations utilizing biocompatible polymers for delivery of a drug, particularly for solubilizing, stabilizing and/or providing sustained release of drug from topical, implantable, and inhalation systems. Many of the methods, compounds, and medicinal formulations are particularly suitable for oral and/or nasal inhalation and use polymers of the formula -[X-R1-C(O)]- wherein each R1 is an independently selected organic group that links the -X- group to the carbonyl group, and each X is independently oxygen, sulfur, or catenary nitrogen.

Low trauma adhesive article

Abstract: A low trauma pressure-sensitive adhesive coated substrate comprising a sheet material, tape or laminate structure designed to adhere to skin or like surfaces. The pressure-sensitive adhesive layer of this adhesive coated substrate is a fibrous adhesive layer generally having a basis weight of from 5 to 200 g/m2 applied to a conformable backing or substrate. The fibrous adhesive layer has a textured outer face and persistent porosity between discrete adhesive fibers. Generally, the fibrous adhesive layer has an MVTR (measured by ASTM E 96-80 at 40 °C) of at least 1000 g/m2/day, preferably at least 6000 g/m2/day.

Reflective article with concealed retroreflective pattern

Abstract: A reflective article has a multilayer film covering a patterned retroreflective layer. In one embodiment the patterned retroreflective layer includes a separate indicia layer covering a retroreflective substrate. The indicia are substantially hidden under normal viewing conditions but easily detectable under retroreflective lighting conditions. Various types of retroreflective layers are disclosed. The article can also include microstructured relief patterns which produce holographic images under ambient lighting but which disappear under retroreflective conditions. The multilayer film includes alternating layers of at least a first and second polymer, and has a relatively high reflectivity for normally incident light within a first spectral range which is approximately coextensive with the visible spectrum, and a relatively low reflectance for normally incident light within a second spectral range. The second spectral range can include a transmission window of 15 % or less fractional bandwidth located at least partially in the visible spectrum. Film constructions are disclosed which achieve sharper spectral transitions than previously attainable. Film constructions are also disclosed which preserve such sharp transitions even at high entrance (tilt) angles.

Abrasive slurries and abrasive articles comprising multiple abrasive particle grades

Abstract: Abrasive slurries, abrasive articles made from the abrasive slurries, and method for the production of the abrasive articles are disclosed. The abrasive slurries and abrasive articles made therefrom comprise at least two grades of abrasive particles (i.e., a first larger grade, and a second smaller grade). The abrasive grades have a median particle size ratio of about 2, where the median particle size ratio equals the median particle size of the larger grade of abrasive particles divided by the median particle size of any smaller grade of abrasive particles.

Cure-on-demand, moisture-curable compositions having reactive silane functionality

Abstract: Cure-on-demand, moisture-curable compositions of one or more compounds comprising molecules having reactive silane functional groups and an acid generating material are taught herein. The acid generating material releases an acid upon exposure to heat, ultraviolet light, visible light, electron beam irradiation or microwave irradiation to initiate and accelerate the cross-linking reaction. Articles prepared using the moisture curable materials are also disclosed, as are methods of curing those materials.

A filter element having a storage device for keeping track of filter usage and a system for use therewith

Abstract: The present invention provides for a fitler assembly (124) which includes a filter element (128) and a memory device (402). The memory device (402) allows for a record of the filter element's usage to be available at all times even if the filter assembly (124) is moved from one filtering system to another one. In another embodiment of the invention, the filter assembly (124) interacts with a filtering device such as air unit (130) which periodically updates the memory device (402) while the air unit (130) is operational. The air unit (130) also periodically checks to see if the filter assembly (124) has reached the end of its useful life. If so, the air unit provides an audible and/or visual alarm.

Recalibrating a multi-color imaging system

Abstract: An apparatus and method for recalibrating a multi-color imaging system are provided. The multi-color imaging system is capable of applying different colorants to a substrate based on a plurality of input color values. The input color values control amounts of the colorants to be applied to the substrate by the imaging system. A subset of the input color values is selected and used to control the imaging system to apply one or more of the different colorants to the substrate, thereby forming a plurality of different color patches on the substrate. The subset of input color values is selected such that one or more of the different color patches is formed by application of a combination of at least two of the different colorants to the substrate. Color values are measured for each of the different color patches, and compared to reference color values, representing a calibrated condition of the imaging system. An error value is calculated. The error value represents a deviation of the measured color values from the reference color values. The input color values for each colorant then are independently adjusted to reduce the error value to a predetermined degree.

Multilayer reflector with selective transmission

Abstract: In a multilayer dielectric reflector, treating the surface of the reflector selectively increases the amount of light transmitted through the reflector. Various surface treatments can be used to permit light to transmit through the reflector that would otherwise be reflected by the reflector. In one such reflector, different portions of the surface have different coupling efficiencies for coupling light having a high propagation angle into the multilayer reflector. Those portions having higher coupling efficiencies on each side of the reflector have a higher degree of transmission.

Abrasive article for providing a clear surface finish on glass

Abstract: An abrasive article is provided which comprises a backing; and at least one three-dimensional abrasive coating comprising diamond particles dispersed within a binder bonded to a surface of the backing, the binder comprising a cured binder precursor including a urethane acrylate oligomer. The abrasive article is capable of rapid glass stock removal coupled with reducing the surface finish as indicated by reduced Ra values using an RPP test procedure.

Microperforated polymeric film for sound absorption and sound absorber using same

Abstract: Microperforated polymeric films and sound absorbers using such films are provided. The microperforated polymeric films may be relatively thin and flexible and may further include holes having a narrowest diameter less than the film thickness and a widest diameter greater than the narrowest diameter. The microperforated polymeric films of a sound absorber may also have relatively large free span portions, which, in certain embodiments, may vibrate in response to incident sound waves.

Latent coating for metal surface repair

Abstract: A corrosion protective coating composition, applied over a metal surface, contains frangible microcapsules which rupture and release fluid upon impact or other stress likely to damage the coating. The fluid, from the microcapsules, contains a film forming component to cover the damaged area of the coating and a corrosion inhibitor for the metal surface.

Room temperature curable silane terminated and stable waterborne polyurethane dispersions which contain fluorine and/or silicone and low surface energy coatings prepared therefrom

Abstract: Coatings are provided with very low surface energies provided by fluorine and/or silicone moieties. Aqueous dispersions of externally chain extended polyurethane compositions terminated by hydrolyzable and/or hydrolyzed silyl groups and containing dispersing or emulsifying groups, particularly carboxyl groups are provided. Also polyurethane dispersions which are substantially organic solvent free which cure to water and solvent resistant, tough, scratch resistant, preferably light stable polyurethane films are provided. Such films are useful as anti-fouling marine coatings. The compound R f R'f CFCOOCH2C(R)(CH2OH)2 is provided.

Protective films and coatings

Abstract: A multi-layered film disposed upon a substrate, the multi-layer film comprising: (a) an interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) layer; and (b) at least one fluoro-containing polymer layer. The multi-layered film of the present invention as described above wherein the fluoro-containing polymer layer comprises a perfluoro-acrylate homo- or co-polymer or a perfluoro-vinyl non-acrylate homo- or co-polymer and such layer is typically sequenced between the PSA layer and the IPN layer. The multi-layered film of the invention is disposed upon a substrate. The substrate can be a cured adhesive, preferably a cured pressure-sensitive adhesive. Alternatively, the substrate can be a surface to be protected from exposure to weather, chemical exposure, graffiti, or the like, such as, for example, a vehicle such as an automobile, a truck, a boat, or an aircraft; an outdoor sign, or a building exterior.

Stretch release adhesive article with enhanced removal feature

Abstract: An adhesive article adapted for removable mounting on a support surface includes a stretch release adhesive tape strip and a base member. The adhesive article includes an abutment adapted to engage the support surface when the article is pressed against the support surface, and thereby prevents the base member from rebonding to the adhesive strip. The abutment thereby allows the article to be pressed against the support surface during removal to hold the article in place without interfering with the removal process. The abutment can be projections protruding from the base member on opposite sides of the adhesive strip, a pair of side walls extending longitudinally along the adhesive strip, a flexible abutment tab extending from the base member which can be manually pressed against the support surface, a projection arranged adjacent the adhesive strip which engages the support surface and acts as a fulcrum when the user applies pressure to a particular location of the base member, or a portion of an article support member which is slidably connected with the base member.

Method for making multilayer optical films having thin optical layers

Abstract: A method for making multilayer optical films is provided in which the degradation of the optical extinction of the thinnest optical layers is avoided by casting these layers close to the casting wheel.

Articles with diffuse reflection of light from light fibers

Abstract: An article (100) configured for emitting diffuse light in a predetermined set of directions when coupled with a light source includes a light fiber (120) and a diffuse reflective sheet material (130) disposed around at least a portion of the light fiber (120) to direct at least a portion of the light emitted by the light fiber (120) toward the predetermined set of directions. The light fiber (120) has a light receiving end for coupling to the light source (380, 580) and the light fiber emitting light when coupled to the light source (380, 580). A variety of diffuse reflective sheet materials (130) can be used including, for example, microvoided sheet materials, such as those made by the TIPS ("thermally induced phase separation") method, and microporous sheet materials.

Enhanced dye durability through controlled dye environment

Abstract: An interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) or semi-interpenetrating polymer network (semi-IPN) comprises a first phase which is continuous and comprises a flexible polymer and a second phase which is a fluorescent or nonfluorescent durable dispersed or continuous phase and comprises a dye and a polymer, wherein the polymer enhances durability of the dye. Such networks are particularly useful in fluorescent traffic signs or safety devices or in pavement marking tape or paint.

Abrasive articles including and antiloading composition

Abstract: An abrasive article is provided that includes a bond system formed from a binder precursor and about 15 % by weight or less of a wax-containing modifier. An abrasive article that includes the bond system exhibits an increase of workpiece surface abraded in a Woodsanding Normal Force Test as compared to an abrasive article including a bond system formed from a composition containing substantially no wax-containing modifier.

Elastic polypropylenes and catalysts for their manufacture

Abstract: A propylene polymeric composition with elastic character that is soluble in at least one nonpolar organic solvent selected from the group consisting of toluene, xylene, heptane, and hexane, comprises greater than 3 weight percent and up to 45 weight percent homotactic sequences each having only r or m diads, all of which homotactic sequences have a helical length in the range of 20 to 150 A, and in the range of 55 to 97 weight percent of the sum of homotactic sequences of less than 20 A in helical length, each homotactic sequence having only r or m diads and having fewer than 10 repeat units with mmmm pentads being present in the range of 0 to 35 weight percent of the total composition, and heterotactic sequences having r and m diads of unequal number, the polymer having a molecular weight (Mw) of at least 70,000.

Ink jet ink containing polyurethane dispersant

Abstract: Described are pigmented inks comprising a liquid medium, a pigment, and a polyurethane dispersant, the pigment being stabilized by the polyurethane dispersant, and the ink being suitable for use in an ink jet printer.

Multilayered polymer films with recyclable or recycled layers

Abstract: A multilayered polymer film is formed with a stack of one or more first optical layers, one or more second optical layers, and one or more non-optical layers. These optical and non-optical layers are typically made using polymer materials, such as polyesters. In one embodiment, the non-optical layers are made from a polyester having a composition which corresponds to the average molar composition of the combination of all of the first and second optical layers. Using this formulation, scrap material from the manufacture of multilayered polymer films may be used to generate the non-optical layers in subsequent films. Alternatively, the non-optical layers of a multilayered polymer film are made using scrap material from prior-manufactured multilayered polymer films with the optional addition of other polymer material which may be either new or recycled.

Diamond-like carbon coatings on inorganic phosphors

Abstract: Inorganic phosphor particles having a diamond-like carbon coating and the method of making these particles. Inorganic phosphor particles are coated with a diamond-like carbon coating, which can include additive components. The coating is applied in a plasma reactor process.

Imidazonaphthyridines and their use in inducing cytokine biosynthesis

Abstract: Imidazonaphthyridine (I) and tetrahydroimidazonaphthyridine (II) compounds induce the biosynthesis of cytokines such as interferon and tumor necrosis factor. The compounds exhibit antiviral and antitumor properties. Methods of preparing the compounds and intermediates useful in the preparation of the compounds are also disclosed. R1 and R2 and A are as defined in the application.