Abstract: Solar PV devices are disclosed, wherein these devices are produced as an integral part of a structural panel. The structural panel may subsequently be used in any number of ways, including being made an integral part of a building structure such as a wall or a roof or another type of barrier structure, or simply a stand-alone array or even a retrofit addition to an existing structure. In embodiments, the panel comprises a semi-monocoque structure, which can provide strength and stiffness. The core of this semi-monocoque can provide an enclosure that functions to confine the solar PV's electrical system within an electrically insulating structure that provides dual insulation and may enables a dual-insulated rating. Embodiments of the panels disclosed herein also can provide cooling air flow to provide cooling to the panel.

Abstract: Solar PV devices are disclosed, including but not limited to devices that comprise a lightweight support for the solar absorber, devices in which all or substantially all of the electronics for conducting and managing electrical energy are included in the device itself such that the device has little or no external wiring, devices that are dual insulated such that they reduce or eliminate the need for grounding circuits and the potential hazards associated with grounding faults, devices with structural members that reduce or eliminate the risk of electrical shock due to contact with metal parts during installation, and devices that provide heat dissipation. Methods of connecting and installing such devices and arrays of such devices are provided.

Abstract: An integrated and enclosed solar photovoltaic power producing panels and method of producing alternating current electrical power that combines and integrates all electrical and electronic elements within a non-metallic and dual-insulated enclosure arrangement within which the DC output of each of these solar modules is converted to AC. The AC may be distributed within the dual insulated enclosure and subsequently between panels in an array. The panels may be comprised of a unitary non-metallic insulating housing that extends the length and width of the panel. This housing may enclose the DC circuitry, the inverter, a suitable alternating bus array for transferring the AC power within the module and contact means for interconnecting the AC output between multiple modules. Each of the AC interconnect components can optionally be connected into an array, whereby the output is coupled, and ultimately delivered to a terminal junction box.

Abstract: An integrated and enclosed solar photovoltaic power producing panels and method of producing alternating current electrical power that combines and integrates all electrical and electronic elements within a non-metallic and dual-insulated enclosure arrangement within which the DC output of each of these solar modules is converted to AC. The AC may be distributed within the dual insulated enclosure and subsequently between panels in an array. The panels may be comprised of a unitary non-metallic insulating housing that extends the length and width of the panel. This housing may enclose the DC circuitry, the inverter, a suitable alternating bus array for transferring the AC power within the module and contact means for interconnecting the AC output between multiple modules. Each of the AC interconnect components can optionally be connected into an array, whereby the output is coupled, and ultimately delivered to a terminal junction box.

Abstract: Solar photovoltaic (PV) devices, e.g., those based on the Copper Indium Selenide (CIS) family of absorbers, including CuIn(1-x)Ga(X)Se2 (CIGS) absorber thin-film PV devices, are provided. Embodiments provide PV devices comprising an alkali metal-containing polymeric film (ACPF), which is a film formed from a composite comprising an alkali metal-containing material and a polymer. Embodiments of this disclosure also provide PV devices comprising a thermally stable polymer film that does not contain an alkali metal (TSP). Included within the embodiments of this disclosure are flexible PV devices comprising a flexible base substrate onto which one or more ACPFs and/or TSPs is/are provided, as well as flexible PV devices wherein an ACPF or TSP itself constitutes the base substrate in the form of a stand alone film Processes for making such flexible PV devices include roll-to-roll processes.

Abstract: Solar photovoltaic (PV) devices, e.g., those based on the Copper Indium Selenide (CIS) family of absorbers, including CuIn(1-x)Ga(x)Se2 (CIGS) absorber thin-film PV devices, are provided. Embodiments provide PV devices comprising an alkali metal-containing polymeric film (ACPF), which is a film formed from a composite comprising an alkali metal-containing material and a polymer. Embodiments of this disclosure also provide PV devices comprising a thermally stable polymer film that does not contain an alkali metal (TSP). Included within the embodiments of this disclosure are flexible PV devices comprising a flexible base substrate onto which one or more ACPFs and/or TSPs is/are provided, as well as flexible PV devices wherein an ACPF or TSP itself constitutes the base substrate in the form of a stand alone film. Processes for making such flexible PV devices include roll-to-roll processes.

Abstract: Procedures and apparatuses for determining the integrity of a geophysical barrier are provided. In particular, an electropotential gradient is established across the barrier in an attempt to drive ionic species through the barrier. The resulting ionic transport results in a current which can be measured between the electrodes, and which can be correlated to the integrity of the barrier. The location of a leak in the barrier can be determined by the use of an electromagnetic sensor which detects an anomaly in the flux field associated with the current.

Abstract: Remediation of soil and groundwater using electropotential gradient induced migration of a target ion and immobilization and/or confinement of the target ion by a host receptor matrix (HRM). In addition to immobilizing and/or confining the target ion, the HRM can comprise a buffer or an ionizable species which releases an exchange ion during application of the electropotential gradient. The exchange ion, when less mobile than a (H.sup.+) ion or hydroxyl (OH.sup.-) ion, increases the efficiency of energy usage during decontamination. The exchange ion can also perform other tasks in the vicinity of the electrodes which improve the decontamination process. The host receptor matrix also can comprise a material which is water impermeable and which has a low surface energy, such as a layer of polytetrafluoroethylene film. When such a material is used, the host receptor matrix can comprise a receptacle in which there is a liquid and/or solid composition which immobilizes and/or contains the target ion.

Abstract: Processes and apparatuses for separating ions from an aqueous solution are provided which utilize a first separation by an ion exchange medium in combination with second separation by a D.C. electropotential gradient. The first separation separates the target ion by ion exchange and the second separation effects migration of the ions from the ion exchange medium, through a ion permeable, hydrophobic membrane into a second zone, which may contain a buffer. The hydrophobic membrane substantially resists fouling.

Abstract: Processes and devices are disclosed for converting an aqueous waste solution, such as a radioactive waste stream, into a highly concentrated sludge having substantially little or no water. In turn, the sludge may be converted into a solid polymeric form suitable for storage. The processes utilize a carrier liquid which has a boiling point higher than that of water, and which facilitates the transfer of heat to the water to vaporize the water into steam. A subsequent separation of the dewatered solution yields the highly concentrated sludge.

Abstract: Methods for the encapsulation and solidification of waste material, particularly radioactive ion exchange resin bead media, are provided along with the apparatus to accomplish the methods, and the final encapsulated storage article. The ion exchange resin is solidified within a containment vessel by the addition of a thermosettable polymeric binder without the need for a pre-mixing vessel. The resulting exothermic conditions occasioned by the curing of the polymer are controlled by the sequential delivery of the polymeric binder, preferably through an injection lance.

Abstract: Remediation of soil, concrete and groundwater using electropotential gradient induced migration of a target ion and immobilization and/or confinement of the target ion by a host receptor matrix (HRM). In addition to immobilizing and/or confining the target ion, the HRM can comprise a buffer or an ionizable species which releases an exchange ion during application of the electropotential gradient. The exchange ion, when less mobile than a (H.sup.+) ion or hydroxyl (OH.sup.-) ion, increases the efficiency of energy usage during decontamination. The exchange ion can also perform other tasks in the vicinity of the electrodes which improve the decontamination process. The host receptor matrix can comprise a material which is water impermeable and which has a low surface energy, such as a layer of polytetrafluoroethylene film. When such a material is used, the host receptor matrix can comprise a receptacle in which there is a liquid and/or solid composition.

Abstract: Applying a desorbing wave energy to a soil matrix can effect desorption of ionic species which are associated with the matrix. This method is especially applicable to decontamination of soils to which metals and/or radioactive isotopes are adsorbed. The desorbing energy may be microwave energy, sonic or ultrasonic energy, etc., or combinations thereof. An electromagnetic potential also can be applied to the matrix to enhance desorption and or migration of the species. An electrolyte also may be added to the matrix to enhance desorption and or migration of the species.

Abstract: A device for applying a substantially uniform thickness of a spreadable coating on a substantially planar surface has a handle, a roller attached to the handle, and a spacer on the outer peripheral surface of the roller for engaging the surface to be coated. The spacer defines an arc of at least about 360.degree. around the outer peripheral surface of the roller for maintaining the outer peripheral surface of the roller both in communication with and spaced from the surface to be coated at a distance corresponding to the radial thickness of the spacer means during travel of the roller over the surface to be coated. In one embodiment, the spacer is a filament helically wound about the outer peripheral surface of the roller. The filament is releasably mounted to the roller and has a substantially uniform radial thickness. Also disclosed are methods for making and using the device of this invention.

Abstract: A method and composition for providing a polymeric membrane in situ for isolating vessels which hold hazardous liquid materials. A liquid polymer composition is applied to at least one of the surfaces defining the area which is to hold the liquid hazardous material. Upon cure, a seamless bladder-like membrane is formed which adheres to the surface, and which can be removed by physically peeling from the surface to which it has been applied. The membrane possesses a unique combination of properties which are substantially maintained while in contact with the hazardous material. The polymeric membrane provides, for an extended period of time, an impermeable barrier which acts as a secondary sealant and prevents the spread, deposition, or migration of contaminants.

Abstract: A method and composition for providing, in situ, a polymeric membrane for isolating hazardous materials within an area such as, for example, an asbestos removal job site. The polymer is applied in liquid form to surfaces which are to be protected. Upon cure, a seamless bladder-like membrane is formed which isolates the work area and prevents the spread of airborne, or water-carried particulate. The membrane can then be peeled from the surface and compacted for disposal.

Abstract: There is disclosed a method for the rapid curing of a partially hydrolyzed silicate film via the application of an aqueous coating. The aqueous coating composition comprises an epoxy resin and a curing agent, one of which is in an emulsion, and a hydraulic cement. Anions contained in the coating function as an alkaline catalyst causing a rapid polymerization of condensed silicates.