Abstract: A disposable, segmented, sorbent, steam-permeable, cooking utensil cover for selectively covering foodstuffs in a stovetop cooking utensil, having upstanding sidewalls which terminate at a rim. The cover has sufficient wet-strength to render it rigid. The edge of the cover contacts the rim of the cooking utensil to cover contained foodstuffs and support the rigid cover. The cover is made of steam-permeable, sorbent, fire-retardant material to allow cooking steam to escape, while grease spatter and cooking juices are absorbed; and, to prevent combustion of the cover due to its proximity to the stove heating element. The cover contains a plurality of radial slits to form liftable segments hinged at the cover center to allow independent elevation of a selected segment. A flip-up handle for removing the cover and adhesive lift tabs to facilitate lifting and securing the segments are provided. Once utilized, the entire cover assembly is discarded.

Abstract: A system for neutralizing contaminants, such as pathogens, toxins, and biological organisms on or within an object, which may be housed in a container, such as an envelope, by focusing a plurality of energies or fields including electromagnetic, electrostatic, magnetic, or acoustic on the object in an amount effective to neutralize such contaminants without substantially deleteriously affecting the object or its contents is provided. A pressurizable chamber has means for focusing the energies or fields on the object, in a continuous fashion, and to concentrate the controlled energies at the object and its contents. A pressurization and evacuating system for expelling air and entrained contaminants from the object allowing a sensor to detect and classify contaminants within the chamber.

Abstract: A system for neutralizing an explosive device concealed within an object by focusing a plurality of energies or fields including electromagnetic, electrostatic, magnetic, or acoustic toward the object thereby inducing detonation. A blast containment enclosure has means for focusing the energies or fields on the object, in a continuous fashion, to concentrate the energies at the contents of the object while protecting the surrounding by containment and/or redirection of a resulting explosion as well as feedback transducers for moderating the magnitude of the energies. A method for the neutralization of contained explosive devices is also provided.