Abstract: A connector for use in an ultra-high vacuum system is disclosed herein. The connector has a metal conduit section with a first hardness, a metal fitting with a second hardness greater than the first hardness, and a metallic reaction-inhibiting barrier positioned between the conduit section and the fitting to sealingly attach the fitting to the conduit section. In some embodiments, application of a mechanical stressor such as stretching or treatment with a mechanical oxide disruptor removes oxide from and prevents oxide re-formation on the faying surface of the conduit section. In alternate embodiments, oxide is removed from the faying surface of the conduit section and oxide re-formation is subsequently prevented by applying an oxide inhibitor. The reaction-inhibiting barrier substantially inhibits metallic and chemical interaction between the conduit section and the fitting under ultra-high vacuum, temperature cycling, mechanical stress, and reactive chemical conditions, as are present during manufacturing.

Abstract: A connector for use in an ultra-high vacuum system is disclosed herein. The connector has a metal conduit section with a first hardness, a metal fitting with a second hardness greater than the first hardness of the conduit section, and a metallic reaction-inhibiting barrier positioned between the conduit section and the fitting to sealingly attach the fitting to the conduit section. Oxide formation on the surface of the metal conduit section proximal to the reaction-inhibiting barrier is prevented either mechanically or via treatment with an oxide inhibitor. The reaction-inhibiting barrier is selected from a group of metals that will substantially inhibit metallic and chemical interaction between the conduit section and the fitting under ultra-high vacuum, temperature cycling, and reactive chemical conditions.

Abstract: Systems and methods for solvent-free direct extraction of target compounds from compositions of matter are disclosed herein. The disclosed systems and methods use low pressure to reduce the evaporation temperature of target compounds without affecting the chemical integrity thereof. Target compounds are extracted from the composition of matter in an evacuation chamber and then collected using a capture system. Target compounds may be drawn from the evacuation chamber into the capture system using a carrier gas to facilitate transport of the targeted compounds in the vapor phase. A processed vapor stream may be transported from the capture system back into the evacuation chamber using a recirculation system that includes a blower. The disclosed systems and methods may be used, for example, to extract target compounds from plant matter such as fresh or dried cannabis and hemp, lavender, rosemary, lilac, or other suitable plant matter containing desirable compounds for extraction.

Abstract: Systems and methods for solvent-free direct extraction of target compounds from plant matter are disclosed herein. The disclosed systems and methods use low pressure to reduce the evaporation temperature of target compounds without affecting the chemical integrity thereof. Target compounds are extracted from the plant matter in an evacuation chamber, and the extracted target compounds are then collected using a cooling system. Target compounds may be drawn from the evacuation chamber into the cooling system using a carrier gas to facilitate transport of the targeted compounds in the vapor phase. The evaporated target compounds may, for example, be drawn into the cooling system using a recirculation system that includes a blower. The disclosed systems and methods may be used, for example, to extract target compounds from plant matter such as fresh or dried cannabis and hemp, lavender, rosemary, lilac, or other suitable plant matter containing desirable compounds for extraction.

Abstract: Systems and methods for solvent-free direct extraction of target compounds from plant matter are disclosed herein. The disclosed systems and methods use low pressure to reduce the evaporation temperature of target compounds without affecting the chemical integrity thereof. Target compounds are extracted from the plant matter in an evacuation chamber, and the extracted target compounds are then collected using a cooling system. Target compounds may be drawn from the evacuation chamber into the cooling system using a carrier gas to facilitate transport of the targeted compounds in the vapor phase. The evaporated target compounds may, for example, be drawn into the cooling system using a recirculation system that includes a blower. The disclosed systems and methods may be used, for example, to extract target compounds from plant matter such as fresh or dried cannabis and hemp, lavender, rosemary, lilac, or other suitable plant matter containing desirable compounds for extraction.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatus for storing perishable items under reduced pressure conditions. Total atmospheric pressure within a vacuum chamber containing a perishable item is reduced below a total pressure limit. Oxygen partial pressure and total pressure within the vacuum chamber are monitored. When oxygen partial pressure falls below a lower oxygen partial pressure limit, an oxygen-containing gas is admitted to raise oxygen partial pressure above the lower oxygen partial pressure limit. When the total atmospheric pressure reaches or exceeds the total pressure limit, total pressure is once again reduced. The vacuum container or chamber comprises a section of cylindrical pipe open at both ends, a first end cap and a second end cap, and formed of a plastic material. Notwithstanding that the pipe and end caps are formed of plastic, they are formed with a structure capable of withstanding pressure created by a high vacuum in the vacuum container.

Abstract: A system and method for storing perishable items under controlled atmospheric conditions is provided. Total atmospheric pressure within a vacuum chamber containing the perishable items is reduced to below a predetermined total pressure limit. Oxygen partial pressure within the chamber is monitored. When the Oxygen partial pressure falls below a predetermined lower Oxygen partial pressure limit, an Oxygen-containing gas is admitted to the vacuum chamber to raise the Oxygen partial pressure above the lower Oxygen partial pressure limit. Total atmospheric pressure within the chamber is also monitored. When the total atmospheric pressure reaches or exceed the predetermined total pressure limit, total pressure within the vacuum chamber is once again reduced below the predetermined total pressure limit.

Abstract: A system and method for transporting and storing post-harvest fruits, vegetables and other perishable commodities under controlled atmospheric conditions is provided. One or more transportable vacuum containers are packed with the perishable commodity. Thereafter, the controlled atmospheric condition is created within the container. The atmospheric condition is maintained while the container is transported from one location to another. Part of the controlled atmospheric condition includes the formation of a vacuum within the container. Internal structure is provided within the container to resist collapse of the container when the vacuum is formed therein. A plurality of containers can be provided. A central control, coupled to each of the containers can be provided to maintain the desired atmospheric condition within each of the containers.