Abstract: A method for increasing the bulk density of silica. Acid is added to an aqueous silica wet cake slurry to bring the pH to about 1.8 to 4.0, and dry fine particle silica is added with an agitator rpm of at least 2000 rpm. The acid and silica are alternately added until a homogeneous consistency is obtained with a solids concentration of above 30%.

Abstract: An autoclave for treating products, such as sterilizing cans and ampoules, the apparatus having a chamber into which a supply conduit is connected provided with a medium, such as steam, and a further supply conduit provided with at least one control medium, for example compressed air. The apparatus is also provided with a discharge conduit and a vent conduit. The apparatus and method achieves the intended sterilization of the products by operating the system as near as possible to the temperature tolerance of the plastic packaging of the products being treated.