Abstract: A conventional electrolyte for a secondary cell having a carbonaceous anode is comprised of an alkali metal salt dissolved in an organic electrolyte solvent. Intercalation and de-intercalation during repeated discharge/charge cycles of the secondary cell using a conventional electrolyte solvent causes continual exposure of bare surfaces of the carbonaceous material to the electrolyte, resulting in continual consumption of electrolyte in the formation of new passivation films on the bared or partially covered surfaces, adversely affecting the performance and capacity of the cell. In accordance with the present invention, at least a portion of the organic electrolyte solvent is replaced with a chloroethylene carbonate solvent capable of forming a very stable passivation film. The performance and capacity of the secondary cell is improved substantially by the addition of the halogenated organic solvent to propylene carbonate.

Abstract: The mycoherbicide of the present invention is effective in the control of Calamagrostis canadensis and/or related grasses, particularly in areas undergoing reforestation. The mycoherbicide includes one or both of Fusarium nivalis (ATCC #26050) and a fungus, Colletotrichum calamagrostidis (PFC-215, ATCC #74287), isolated from a diseased plant of C. canadensis var. canadensis. The mycoherbicidal formulation preferably includes an allelopathic agent, such as straw, straw-based material, straw extract, grass extract or an endophyte. An especially effective treatment was demonstrated with C. calamagrostidis (PFC-215) and an inoculum of endophytic Fusarium nivalis. An embodiment of a method of treatment according to the present invention includes the application of endophytes of reduced virulence to grass bordering a target area or in grazing lands, to prevent either natural or inoculative infection.