Abstract: A method of cleaning a surface which comprises the step of applying an aqueous cleaning solution to the surface wherein the active cleaning ingredient of the aqueous solution consists essentially of a lignosulfonate. It has been found that lignosulfonate can function as a cleaning agent for a variety of cleaning materials.

Abstract: Uncured solvent-based paint may be flushed from a paint delivery installation using a substantially non-aqueous composition containing one or more organic solvents and a polymer having acid and/or amine functional groups.

Abstract: A prepackaged, peroxide-based, cleaning composition is described which is suitable for on-site dilution, and for cleaning substrates such as air conditioner coils.

Abstract: The invention concerns a device for cleaning pipette needles or stirrers, the device comprising a trough which holds cleaning fluid and whose lower region has a fluid duct for filling and/or emptying purposes and whose upper region has at least one feed pipe which leads into at least one nozzle directed into the trough interior. Advantageously, the device has a cylindrical trough and in insert with nozzles which is screwed into the trough. The invention further concerns a method of cleaning pipette needles or stirrers, the material to be washed being introduced into the trough interior and sprayed with a washing fluid. The device can also be used to flush the interior of a pipette needle.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for cleaning deposition systems utilizing alkylsilanes are described herein. In an embodiment, a method of cleaning a semiconductor fabrication system comprises flushing the system with a solvent comprising at least one alkylsilane. In another embodiment, a method of removing at least one chemical precursor from a semiconductor fabrication system comprises forcing a solvent containing at least one alkylsilane through the semiconductor fabrication system and dissolving the at least one chemical precursor in the solvent. The solvent may also contain mixtures of different alkylsilanes and other organic solvents.

Abstract: On-Line and Off-Line methods of simultaneously cleaning and disinfecting an industrial water system are described and claimed. The methods involve the addition to the water of the industrial water system of a Compound selected from the group consisting of the alkali salts of chlorite and chlorate and mixtures thereof; and an acid, followed by allowing the water in the industrial water system to circulate for several hours. The reaction of the alkali salts of chlorite and chlorate and acid produces chlorine dioxide in-situ in the water of the industrial water system. The chlorine dioxide kills microorganisms and the acid acts to remove deposits upon the water-contact surfaces of the equipment. An alternative method involves the use of a chelating agent and a biocide. Other possible cleaning and disinfection reagents may be added as needed including corrosion inhibitors, chelating agents, biocides, surfactants and reducing agents.

Abstract: A novel cleaning composition comprises a dilutant, a wetting agent, a chelating agent, an alkaline builder, and a chlorine provider. The dilutant is preferably water. The wetting agent is alkoxylated alcohol. The chelating agent is an acrylic/maleic acid copolymer. The alkaline builder is sodium hydroxide. The chlorine provider is sodium hypochlorite. A method comprises the steps of partially filling the whirlpool tub with water, activating the whirlpool pump to circulate the water, adding to the circulating water a cleaning composition comprising a dilutant, a wetting agent, a chelating agent, an alkaline builder, and a chlorine provider, running the whirlpool pump for a predetermined time to circulate the water and cleaning composition thoroughly through the internal plumbing, and draining the whirlpool tub completely.

Abstract: Systems and methods for reducing biofilms are described. The systems and methods are particularly suitable for use with conventional aqueous crossflow filtration systems, such as reverse osmosis systems. The addition of the enzyme/surfactant compound has been found to enhance the effectiveness of conventional crossflow filtration processes by decreasing or inhibiting the growth of biofilms and other contaminants.

Abstract: Decontamination of nuclear facilities is necessary to reduce the radiation field during normal operations and decommissioning of complex equipment. In this invention, we discuss gel and foam based diphosphonic acid (HEDPA) chemical solutions that are unique in that these solutions can be applied at room temperature; provide protection to the base metal for continued applications of the equipment; and reduce the final waste form production to one step. The HEDPA gels and foams are formulated with benign chemicals, including various solvents, such as ionic liquids and reducing and complexing agents such as hydroxamic acids, and formaldehyde sulfoxylate. Gel and foam based HEDPA processes allow for decontamination of difficult to reach surfaces that are unmanageable with traditional aqueous process methods. Also, the gel and foam components are optimized to maximize the dissolution rate and assist in the chemical transformation of the gel and foam to a stable waste form.

Abstract: A method for cleaning a processing chamber that includes heating an inner surface of the processing chamber to a first temperature. The first temperature can be sufficient to cause a first species to become volatile. The first species can be one of several species deposited on the inner surface. A cleaning chemistry is injected into the processing chamber. The cleaning chemistry can be reactive with a second one of the species to convert the second species to the first species. The volatilized first species can also be output from the processing chamber. A system for cleaning the process chamber is also described.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for one-bath chemical cleaning and preservation of interior surfaces of hollow steel bodies, without any organic solvents, comprising controlled change of the liquid bath in that in a circuit of hoses running from a mobile tank equipped with a pump unit and steam generator there is circulated a liquid stream to a defined cavity of steel. The composition of the liquid is changed methodically by the addition of fresh chemical additives until the end of the process. Fresh water at 80° C. has added thereto an alkaline degreasing liquid A containing chlorine-free tensides, which is circulated, whereupon cleaning liquid B, consisting of citric acid with added cationic tensides, is added to a pH of 4.5 and is circulated. There is then added a complexing derusting liquid C, with active modified aminocarboxykate made biologically degradable, with adjustment of the pH to 4.5–5.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a facility parts cleaning solution for the processing of (meth)acrylic acid and/or (meth)acrylic esters and a cleaning method using the cleaning solution. An aqueous cleaning composition comprising 5 to 50 wt % of at least one alkali metal hydroxide selected from the group consisting of sodium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide, 0.01 to 1 wt % of a water-soluble amino acid, 0.001 to 0.05 wt % of N,N?-methylene bisacrylamide, and 0.001 to 0.05 wt % of azobisisobutyronitrile is used to clean facility parts for manufacturing (meth)acrylic acid and/or (meth)acrylic esters in order to easily remove polymers and deposits.

Abstract: A method of dissolving scale comprises contacting the scale with a solution of an alkali metal bisulfate. Another method of dissolving scale comprises contacting the scale with a solution of an alkali metal bisulfate and a strong mineral acid. A further method of dissolving scale comprises contacting the scale with a solution of an alkali metal bisulfate and an inorganic oxidizer.

Abstract: A pipe renovating method and system in which a pipe is first cleaned and then coated with a suitable coating material. In the cleaning step, pressurized air and particles of abrasive material are pumped into a first end of a pipe while suction is applied to the second end of the pipe via a vacuum pump to improve flow along the entire length of the pipe. The coating material is subsequently pumped in at one end of the cleaned pipe while suction is applied at the other end. In each step, the suction flow rate is higher than the input flow rate, so as to steer the mixture towards the second end. This method can be used to coat and clean different sections of a pipe system, by connecting the input materials successively to different access ports in the system.

Abstract: A resin composition for purging away contaminants in a plastic processing machine and a method of purging contaminants from a plastic processing machine that involves the use of the resin composition. The resin composition includes a thermoplastic resin and borate ester of polyoxyalkylene.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a gas turbine cleaner. The composition of the present invention includes a glycol alkyl ether compound, an alkoxylated surfactant with an alkyl chain length of from about 3 to 18 carbons and a metal corrosion inhibitor component.

Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for removing fumes from an endoscope disinfecting apparatus configured for disinfecting an endoscope with a disinfecting solution. In architecture, the exhaust system includes a fan housing, a fan disposed within the fan housing, an exhaust hose connected to the fan housing, and wherein the exhaust system is connected to the endoscope disinfecting apparatus.

Abstract: A method of automatic cleaning of cooking cavities of cooking equipment for food processing includes the introduction of steam at a temperature of at least 100.deg. C. from a supply line and nozzle into a cooking cavity for a time period depending on the degree of disinfection desired. The cooking cavity is rinsed with the steam condensate; and the supply line and nozzle are flushed with demineralized water.

Abstract: An aqueous detergent composition is provided containing phosphoric acid or salt thereof, an organic phosphate surfactant, a nonionic surfactant, and water. The aqueous detergent composition may be employed to improved the adhesion of a coating to a substrate. Also provided is a method of improving the adhesion of a coating to a substrate.

Abstract: Methods and compositions for cleaning and maintaining chemical, biological and radiological countermeasure washdown systems are disclosed. Systems are effectively cleaned by the removal of water scale, including deposits, sediment, microbiological scale, microinvertebrate fouling, and the like, from the inside surfaces of piping in the system. A section of the system is isolated for cleaning and an aqueous acidic cleaning solution is circulated through the fouled pipe section to be cleaned for a sufficient time and at a controlled pH to dissolve and loosen the scale. After cleaning all of the sections, the system is restored to operational readiness.

Abstract: New and in-use fire sprinkler systems can be sterilized by employing antimicrobial gases. The gases include steam, oxygen, and chlorine. Water added to the system after sterilization can be sterilized to prevent the reoccurrence of microbiological contamination.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of low temperature cleaning and applying an antimicrobial treatment to food and beverage plant equipment. In addition, the method includes carbon dioxide compatible chemistry. The method may be achieved through a multi-step method.

Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus for storing and delivering a low vapor pressure process chemical to a process tool for semiconductor fabrication, comprising: a) a bulk container for storing the process chemical; b) a process container for delivering the process chemical to the process tool; c) a first manifold for delivering process chemical from the bulk container to the process container; d) a solvent container containing a quantity of solvent, and; e) a second manifold for delivering the process chemical from the process container to a process tool. A process for using the apparatus is also contemplated.

Abstract: The invention relates to an aqueous composition comprising in combination an alkyl pyrrolidone, such as a C8-C18 linear alkyl pyrrolidone, and an alkyl polysaccharide such as an alkyl polyglucoside, and a method of .enhancing the efficacy of an enzyme containing composition for use in cleaning medical instruments comprising the step of including in said composition an alkyl pyrrolidone and an alkyl polysaccharide. The methods and compositions of the present invention may further include at least one enzyme such as proteases, lipases, amylases, and cellulases.

Abstract: Disclosed is a novel process for cleaning and restoring the operating efficiency of organic liquid chemical exchangers in a safe and effective manner and in a very short period of time, without a need to disassemble the equipment and without the need to rinse contaminate from the equipment after cleaning. Used is a formulation of monocyclic saturated terpene mixed with a non-ionic surfactant package specifically suited to oil rinsing. The terpene-based chemical is injected into organically contaminated exchangers using a novel process involving high-pressure steam to form a very effective cleaning vapor.

Abstract: A coherent body (B) of wet crushed ice is pumped along a pipe (5). The crushed ice body can be used as a means of cleaning the pipe wall, as a means of driving a product liquid out of the pipe for recovery, or as a barrier for preventing mixing of two different bodies of liquid (1,2) in the pipe to either side of it. Being coherent but flowable and non-tensile, the mass of crushed ice can negotiate internal constrictions, obstructions and junctions of the pipe readily, unlike conventional solid or gelled pigs.

Abstract: In a method of cleaning and refurbishing a process chamber component having a metal coating having a surface thereon, the surface of the metal coating is immersed in an acidic solution to remove at least a portion of the process deposits from the surface. Thereafter, the surface of the metal coating is immersed in a basic solution to remove substantially all the metal coating. The component may optionally be bead blasting to roughen a surface of the component, and the metal coating may be re-formed.

Abstract: In a method of cleaning metal-containing deposits such as tantalum from a surface of a process chamber component, such as a metal surface, the surface is immersed in a cleaning solution. In one version, the cleaning solution is a solution having HF and HNO3 in a ratio that removes deposits from the surface substantially without eroding the surface. In another version, the cleaning solution is a solution having KOH and H2O2. The solution can be treated after cleaning the surface to recover tantalum-containing materials and one or more of the cleaning solutions.

Abstract: Disclosed is a novel process for interior cleaning and by cleaning, removing noxious gas and/or restoring the operating efficiency of organically contaminated hydrocarbon processing equipment in a safe and effective manner and in a very short period of time, without a need to manually enter an unsafe environment and mechanically remove organic contaminants. Used is a formulation of non-aqueous, monocyclic saturated terpene mixed with a non-ionic surfactant package. The terpene-based chemical is injected into organically contaminated equipment using a novel process involving high-pressure steam to form a very effective cleaning vapor.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for preventing the deposition of contaminants in steam systems. In a method of this type, deposits are prevented in a simple and economic manner by metering an additive into the steam, which additive adheres to the steam-side surface of the steam system and has the effect of repelling moisture and contaminants.

Abstract: Disclosed is a novel process for interior cleaning and by cleaning, removing noxious gas and/or restoring the operating efficiency of organically contaminated hydrocarbon processing dynamic devices in a safe and effective manner and in a very short period of time, without a need to manually enter an unsafe environment and mechanically remove organic contaminants. Used is a formulation of non-aqueous, monocyclic saturated terpene mixed with a non-ionic surfactant package. The terpene-based chemical is injected into the organically contaminated device using a novel process involving high-pressure steam to form a very effective cleaning vapor. The device is activated during the process. The vapor may be optionally directed against the normal-flow direction of the device.

Abstract: This invention provides a method of treating a dry or processed fluid pipe line susceptible to the build-up of iron sulfide deposits by complexing the iron sulfide in the pipe lines. The method of the present invention introduces the composition on a continuous or a batch basis to a gas pipe line. The composition is made of a solution of 1) water, 2) [tetrakis(hydroxymethyl)phosphonium]sulfate or chloride, and 3) a soluble ammonium salt, such as ammonium chloride or the like.

Abstract: Disclosed is a cleaning method of a ceramic member, which permits removing with a high accuracy the contaminants from a ceramic member contaminated with the contaminant. The cleaning method comprises the steps of processing the contaminated ceramic member with an alkaline chemical liquid having a pH value not smaller than 10 in the presence of an ultrasonic wave, processing the ceramic member processed with the alkaline chemical liquid with a prescribed acidic chemical liquid in the presence of an ultrasonic wave, and heating the ceramic member processed with the acidic chemical liquid under temperatures not lower than 1,000° C.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the application of a coating to a pipeline, FPS (Fire Protection System) or to pipe stock from which a pipeline is fabricated. A composition which when applied to the inside surface of the pipe prevents either chemical corrosion or microbiologically influenced corrosion is disclosed. Also disclosed is a method for utilizing this material to protect both existing pipelines and the raw stock used to construct pipelines and various apparatus for applying a coating of the composition, cleaning, and maintenance of the passive coating. Also disclosed is a method to recycle the composition to be used in other industrial pacification processes.

Abstract: On-Line and Off-Line methods of simultaneously cleaning and disinfecting an industrial water system are described and claimed. The methods involve the addition to the water of the industrial water system of a Compound selected from the group consisting of the alkali salts of chlorite and chlorate and mixtures thereof; and an acid, followed by allowing the water in the industrial water system to circulate for several hours. The reaction of the alkali salts of chlorite and chlorate and acid produces chlorine dioxide in-situ in the water of the industrial water system. The chlorine dioxide kills microorganisms and the acid acts to remove deposits upon the water-contact surfaces of the equipment. An alternative method involves the use of a chelating agent and a biocide. Other possible cleaning and disinfection reagents may be added as needed including corrosion inhibitors, chelating agents, biocides, surfactants and reducing agents.

Abstract: A chemical-mechanical polishing (CMP) method includes applying a solid abrasive material to a substrate, polishing the substrate, flocculating at least a portion of the abrasive material, and removing at least a majority portion of the flocculated portion from the substrate. Applying solid abrasive material can include applying a CMP slurry or a polishing pad comprising abrasive material. Such a method can further include applying a surfactant comprising material to the substrate to assist in effectuating flocculation of the abrasive material. Such surfactant comprising material may be cationic which includes, for example, a quaternary ammonium substituted salt. Also, for example, the surfactant comprising material may be applied during polishing, brush scrubbing, pressure spraying, or buffing.

Abstract: An automatic deliming process for a steam oven cooker is described. The process initiates a deliming procedure after a predetermined time of normal operation, which period of time is determined by the hardness of the water in the local area. Upon the expiration of this period of time a microprocessor signals an operator to shut down normal operation of the oven, and initiate the deliming process. The microprocessor then activates a peristaltic pump which injects a predetermined quantity of deliming liquid from an external reservoir into the generator. After the deliming time has passed and the generator contents have cooled to 140° F. the microprocessor automatically activates a drain pump to drain the deliming solution from the generator. Subsequently the microprocessor activates a fill-solenoid opening and inlet from a reservoir of rinse water into the generator to rinse the same. The microprocessor then again opens the drain to drain the rinse water, and normal operation is resumed.

Abstract: This invention provides fluid-dispensing devices attachable to an air-intake system of an internal combustion engine for introducing an engine cleaner composition into the air intake system. The invention also provides methods of cleaning internal combustion engines using the fluid-dispensing devices.

Abstract: Brass articles having leachable lead are contacted with an aqueous caustic solution that contains a chelating agent. A brass article can optionally be post-treated by contacting it with an aqueous solution containing anazole.

Abstract: To provide a pattern formation method capable of forming a pattern by cleaning a liquid droplet ejection head without causing problems during the liquid droplet ejection operation, when the liquid droplet ejection head stored with a storage solution is used again, a pattern formation method includes: filling a passage including a liquid droplet ejection head and a conduit to feed a functional solution to the liquid droplet ejection head with purified water; filling the passage with a solvent dissolving both the purified water and a solvent contained in the functional solution, filling the passage with the solvent contained in the functional solution, surface treating a substrate by forming a lyophobic film on a region surrounding a pattern formation region defined on the substrate; and disposing liquid droplets on the pattern formation region with the liquid droplet ejection head.

Abstract: Process for removing deposits from water-carrying systems and devices for water supply, or from their individual parts, in which the deposits are dissolved by means of an aqueous treatment solution and removed in dissolved form from the system or the device or their individual parts, wherein the deposits are dissolved by means of an aqueous treatment solution comprised of a combination of (i) a reducing agent, in particular in the form of a slat-like, reducing sulfur-oxygen compound, nitrogen-oxygen compound or phosphorous-oxygen compound, and (ii) a complexing agent having phosphonic acid groups or phosphonate groups or a complexing agent of the hydroxy acid type at pH values in the range of approximately 4.5 to 9.5, in particular from approximately 6.0 to 8.0.

Abstract: A method of improving the operation of a gas pipeline having at least some water therein including the steps of introducing into the interior of the pipeline a soluble soap pig that is dimensioned to move through the pipeline by gas flow, the composition of the soap pig being selected such that at least some soap is applied as a film to the interior wall as the soap pig moves through the pipeline and in which the soap pig slowly dissolves within the pipeline. The soap film preferably has anti-corrosive and/or antibacterial properties.

Abstract: A method of remediating deposits which partially block a pipeline comprising providing a pig within said pipeline which sealingly engages the internal diameter of said pipeline, restraining the movement of said pig using a wire rope or similar means, pumping down the pipeline without taking return flow back up the pipeline, pumping through flow jets on the pig to increase the velocity of the flow to enhance the effectiveness of the remediation method.

Abstract: A method for cleaning a lubricating oil cooler apparatus in situ with a cleaning liquid which includes introducing a cleaning liquid that is compatible with lubricating oil into the shell to cause cleaning of the shell and the external surfaces of the tube bundle. The cleaning liquid is recirculated in the shell to remove contaminants from the shell and the cleaning liquid is filtered after it has passed through the shell to remove contaminants from the cleaning liquid. The cleaning liquid is removed from the shell.

Abstract: A washing vessel capable of housing an endoscope is formed in an apparatus body. A washing solution containing a detergent is spurted against the endoscope arranged within the washing vessel for washing the endoscope. Also, an oxide-based disinfecting-sterilizing solution is supplied into the washing vessel for disinfecting-sterilizing the endoscope after the washing step together with the washing vessel.

Abstract: The present invention provides compositions comprising an HFC component and a non-HFC component consisting essentially of methanol, having boiling points that are unexpectedly low and relatively constant, and uses thereof.

Abstract: The present invention provides compositions comprising an HFC component and a non-HFC component consisting essentially of methanol, having boiling points that are unexpectedly low and relatively constant, and uses thereof.

Abstract: A method of dissolving scale comprises contacting the scale with a solution of an alkali metal bisulfate. Another method of dissolving scale comprises contacting the scale with a solution of an alkali metal bisulfate and a strong mineral acid. A further method of dissolving scale comprises contacting the scale with a solution of an alkali metal bisulfate and an inorganic oxidizer.

Abstract: An improved composition and method for cleaning and disinfecting a garbage disposal that does not require aerosol propellants or carbon dioxide gas generating reaction systems. The composition comprises a suds stabilizing surfactant and a disinfecting agent, plus other optional ingredients such as additional detergent surfactant and scouring agents. In the method of cleaning and disinfecting, a flow of water is provided to the garbage disposal and the composition is then added while the garbage disposal is turned on. The mechanical action of the garbage disposal grinder blades rapidly mixes the composition with water to create suds and disperse the suds around the entire interior chamber, thus cleansing and disinfecting the garbage disposal. After the suds are generated, the flow of water is discontinued, with the garbage disposal being turned off within about 1 minute after the flow of water is discontinued.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for detecting contaminating species such as metal particles on a wafer edge from a semiconductor fabrication process are disclosed. In the method, a wafer is suspended and rotated in a container with a volume of solvent at a bottom portion of the container such that only an edge portion of the wafer is exposed to the solvent. After the wafer is turned in the solvent such that the entire edge portion of the wafer has been exposed to the solvent, the solvent may be removed for analyzing in an electronic instrument for detecting the species of contaminating particles. The apparatus further includes a wafer mounting device for supporting the wafer which can be adjusted in height to suit wafers of different diameters.