Abstract: An oil spill containment system for containing oil spills or leaks from an oil containing vessel. In one embodiment, the oil spill containment system comprises a geosynthetic material defining a number of cells, with an oil absorbing material and an oil adsorbing material received in the cells of the geosynthetic material. This system contains oil which spills or leaks from the oil containing vessel while allowing water from rain or snow melt to permeate through the system.

Abstract: A time varying current sensor is constructed using surface coils uniformly spaced around a central cavity adapted to receive the conductor through which the current to be measured flows. Accurate and uniform coil geometry is achieved using printed circuit board technology, thereby eliminating the high cost of precision toroidal coil winding. An optional hinge in the housing can allow the sensor to be easily installed on existing conductors without the need to disconnect and reconnect.

Abstract: A structure for diverting fish away from water intakes comprises a porous dike having a bottom portion, a central portion, and a top portion, the top portion preferably being submerged a short distance below the surface, and the central portion having flow passages. In a preferred embodiment, the top and bottom portions comprise solid blocks and the flow passages in the central portion are lined with zebra mussel resistant sleeves to minimize clogging. Preferably the sleeve can be readily replaced as desired.

Abstract: A bi-directional solid state switch has two main transistors which are connected to each other with input to input and input referenced output to input referenced output. Each unreferenced transistor output is separately connected to an output terminal of the switch. An electrical impedance is connected between the input connection and the input referenced output connection. A driver signal is connected across the input connection and one output terminal. This circuit topology is counter-intuitive, but provides advantages which can include eliminating the need for electrical isolation, being capable of turning on or off at any time, at or between zero crossings, having a high speed of response, simplicity, reliability, cost-effectiveness, and energy-efficiency.

Abstract: A two step process for destruction of polyhalogenated aromatic compounds contained in pitch from ballasts of fluorescent lamps comprises: (a) contacting the pitch with a sufficient amount of an organic solvent such that the pitch and the solvent together form a liquid phase in which the polyhalogenated aromatic compounds are dissolved; and (b) chemically destroying the polyhalogenated aromatic compounds in the liquid phase. In preferred embodiments of the process, the solvent comprises mineral oil and the polyhalogenated aromatic compounds comprise polychlorinated biphenyls. Chemical destruction of the polyhalogenated aromatic compounds preferably comprises treatment with an alkali metal dispersion, preferably sodium metal in mineral oil.

Abstract: A powerline communication system including a transmitter having a pair of terminals for connection to the power lines. The transmitter comprises a carrier frequency generator for generating a carrier frequency modulated by the data signal and a switching circuit connected to the carrier frequency generator for being switched by the carrier frequency generator for generating a carrier signal having the carrier frequency. The switching circuit is connected to the terminals for providing the generated carrier signal thereto. The switching circuit comprises at least one storage means for storing energy when generating a portion of a cycle of the carrier signal and providing the stored energy when generating another portion of the cycle of the carrier signal. The system also comprises a receiver coupled to the power lines.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for in situ refurbishment of valve seats are disclosed in which a worn valve seat is initially ground to a flat surface, a buildup of weld metal is deposited on the flat surface, and the weld buildup is machined to the final dimensions of the valve seat. The apparatus comprises a machining apparatus for machining and machining of the valve seat, a gas metal arc welding apparatus for deposition of weld metal, and support structures to support the weld buildup as it is being formed. Preferably, the support structures are in the form of metal chill blocks which act both to support the buildup of weld metal and to act as heat sinks and remove excess heat from the buildup, resulting in a higher quality buildup of metal.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for in situ refurbishment of valve seats are disclosed in which a worn valve seat is initially ground to a flat surface, a buildup of weld metal is deposited on the flat surface, and the weld buildup is machined to the final dimensions of the valve seat. The apparatus comprises a machining apparatus for machining and machining of the valve seat, a gas metal arc welding apparatus for deposition of weld metal, and support structures to support the weld buildup as it is being formed. Preferably, the support structures are in the form of metal chill blocks which act both to support the buildup of weld metal and to act as heat sinks and remove excess heat from the buildup, resulting in a higher quality buildup of metal.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for removing a toxic contaminant from porous material by placing the material and a fluid solvent for the toxic in a drum and rotating the drum around its horizontal axis. Also provided is apparatus for placing the drum in a sealable container and sealing the container during the decontamination cycle.

Abstract: Methods are provided for the dehalogenation of halogenated aromatics whereby an inert solvent, an alkali dispersion and high level contaminated material is placed in a vessel, and a low level contaminated inert fluid is then added as a coolant to maintain the temperature below the flash point during the reaction. The low level contaminated fluid is also decontaminated. Typically, the alkali by-product is then neutralized with water. Also taught is the use of water contaminated inert fluids as coolants for the reaction.