An ultrahigh molecular weight polymer, such as ultrahigh molecular weight
polyisobutylene, is used as an additive to enhance the coating properties
of a solvent. The polyisobutylene has a molecular weight of at least
2.5-3.0 million daltons, preferably greater than about 6 daltons, and is
provided in a preferred concentration of 0.05 to 0.3%. The solvent can be
a medicinal grade mineral oil. Other suitable solvents include hydrocarbon
oil and low viscosity, synthetic compositions. In all cases, the coating
properties of the solvent are greatly enhanced by the addition of
ultrahigh molecular weight polyisobutylene. In another aspect of the
invention, ultrahigh molecular weight polyisobutylene is used as an
additive to enhance the viscoelasticity of a mineral oil based sunscreen
formulation. In still another aspect of the invention, the fibers of a
fabric material are coated with an ultrahigh molecular weight polymer to
greatly strengthen the fabric. Other applications include improved
automobile polishes and paint sealers, rust removers, and leather
treatments.
