Abstract: A process and apparatus are provided for the sterilization of horticultural material, which may be substrate, fertilizer, peat or especially mushroom casing. The sterilization may be complete or may be partial, removing only harmful organisms while leaving beneficial organisms unharmed. The horticultural material is passed through a tunnel and is exposed to radiofrequency electromagnetic waves for a period sufficient for sterilization. In a preferred process and apparatus the horticultural material is heated to a suitable temperature by the waves and is then maintained in a region not exposed to the waves for a period long enough to sterilize the material, before allowing it to cool to ambient temperature.

Abstract: A method is disclosed to provide a substantial reduction of marine corrosion in sea water by micro and macro biofouling. An alternating current is generated of a strength and frequency sufficient to shock marine biofouling organisms and sufficient to upset the normal behavior patterns of the marine biofouling organisms entrained in the sea water passing around or through the structure. A second combination of alternating and direct currents are generated between two strategically located electrodes whereby to release into the water around or within the structure controlled amounts of chlorine ions and copper ions to produce an environment actively hostile to potential marine biofouling organisms. The effect of releasing copper ions and chlorine ions simultaneously is that they co-operate in a synergistic manner that greatly enhances the biocidal effect on marine organisms over and above the effect of the separate use of copper ions and chlorine ions.