Abstract: Methods for generating a single-phase supercritical dense processing fluid have been disclosed. The single-phase supercritical dense processing fluid may be generated in a separate pressurization vessel and transferred to the processing chamber, or alternatively may be generated directly in the processing chamber. At least one processing agent is added to the pressurization vessel, or to the processing chamber, or to the single-phase supercritical dense fluid during transfer from the pressurization vessel to the processing chamber; to produce the single-phase supercritical dense processing fluid. Methods for processing an article with a single-phase supercritical dense processing fluid in a processing chamber are also disclosed.

Abstract: Apparatus for processing an article with a single-phase supercritical dense processing fluid in a processing chamber while applying ultrasonic energy during processing. The single-phase supercritical dense fluid may be generated in a separate pressurization vessel and transferred to the processing chamber, or alternatively may be generated directly in the processing chamber. A processing agent may be added to the pressurization vessel, to the processing chamber, or to the single-phase supercritical dense fluid during transfer from the pressurization vessel to the processing chamber. The ultrasonic energy may be generated continuously at a constant frequency or at variable frequencies. Alternatively, the ultrasonic energy may be generated intermittently.

Abstract: A system and method comprising same for measuring and analyzing particles within a gas feed stream. In one aspect, the system comprises a particle counter and a particle capture filter that are arranged in parallel. In another aspect, the system comprises a purifying device to remove trace molecular impurities from a gas feed stream to reduce the presence of impurities.

Abstract: Ultrasonic probe comprising an elongate body having a first end and a second end, an ultrasonic transducer attached to the probe at or adjacent the first end, and an enlarged support section intermediate the ultrasonic transducer and the second end, wherein the enlarged support section has an equivalent diameter greater than an equivalent diameter of the body at any location between the enlarged support section and the ultrasonic transducer. The probe may be used to introduce ultrasonic energy into ultrasonic cleaning systems.