Abstract: The present invention relates to gaseous discharge and applied biotechnology. In particularly, the present invention relates to a method for killing organisms in the course of conveying ballast water in ship, comprising applying a voltage with frequency of 400-40000 Hz between the anode electrode and the cathode electrode of the free radical generator, thereby forming strong ionization discharge of electric field strength of 250-600 Td between the anode electrode and the cathode electrode, ionizing, dissociating, and exciting O2 and H2O, or O2, processing into active particles comprising O3, OH. and HO2, dissolving excitedly to obtain free radical solution mainly consisted of OH, adding the free radical solution to conveying pipeline of ballast water, conveying for 2-20 s in the pipeline, thereby killing organisms of ballast water selected from the group consisted of bacteria, single cell alga, and protozoan.

Abstract: Ortho phenylphenol or its sodium salt is shown to form synergistic antimicrobial mixtures with nitrogen and aldehyde-containing microbiocides.

Abstract: This invention relates to an automated process for efficiently treating an aqueous system with chlorine dioxide. The process results in high efficiency yields of chlorine dioxide on a continuous basis by minimizing the waste of precursor chemicals. Additionally, the process creates less environmental stress because the formation of unwanted by-products is minimized. The level of chlorine dioxide in the aqueous system treated and other parameters of the process are monitored and adjusted automatically to maintain them within acceptable levels.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for reducing DI water consumption by delivering the DI water at an elevated processing temperature when demanded. The DI water is passed through a heater for heating the DI water to a processing temperature in a single pass. The DI water is circulated through a recirculation loop, including the heater, until demanded. The DI water is monitored for contaminants and bubbles or voids. Detected contaminants or voids are discharged through vents of the system. Turbulence or biocides can be introduced into the recirculated DI water for inhibiting biological contamination.

Abstract: A system for reducing or preventing the growth of organisms in the process water used to coat glass fibers with a formaldehyde-free binder composition. One or more biocides is added to the process water that mitigates the growth of microbes in the water. The biocides are added in an amount sufficient to minimize growth of organisms without adversely affecting the application of the binder composition to the glass fibers.

Abstract: A fluid container and method for inhibiting the growth of microbes in liquid nutrient in a container, the container having an interior surface having a metal-ion sequestering agent for removing a designated metal ion from the liquid nutrient for inhibiting growth of microbes in the liquid nutrient.

Abstract: Electrolytic process combines disinfection with removal of bromide from raw water. Current is applied to the electrodes in an electrolytic cell with raw water that has some salinity as the electrolyte. The electrodes consist of silver or dimensionally stable anodes (DSA) as cathodes and dimensionally stable anodes (DSA) arranged in parallel baffling fashion. During electrolysis chloride is converted to chlorine. The chlorine immediately effects disinfection of the water and reduction of bromide ions to bromine gas which is liberated from the cell. Aqueous bromine will remain in solution as hypobromous acid. The extent of chlorine generation and bromide loss depend upon the chloride:bromide ratio, electrical energy supplied for electrolysis, ionic strength of the water, electrode distance, cell residence time and electrode material.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for producing an essentially chlorite-free, stable, aqueous chlorine-oxygen solution. Said method comprises the following steps: (1) a hydrogen sulfate compound is dissolved in water, (2) an acid is added to the aqueous solution containing hydrogen sulfate in such a quantity that the pH value in the target final product in the form of the essentially chlorite-free, stable, aqueous chlorine-oxygen solution is maintained between approximately 3 and 5; (3) a peroxide compound is added; and (4) an aqueous chlorite solution is added dropwise in a quantity of between approximately 60 and 90 mole %, especially between 70 and 80 mole %, of chlorite, in relation to the concentration of peroxide compound. The invention also relates to the chlorine-oxygen solutions which can be obtained by means of said method.

Abstract: A method of controlling Legionella bacteria in cooling water systems is described. The method involves the heating of recirculating cooling water to temperatures of 70° C. for sufficient time to kill the bacteria. The method functions best in combination with chemical bactericides.

Abstract: A composition and method for cleaning, sanitizing and maintaining contained bodies of water such as swimming pools, wading pools, fountains, ornamental ponds, etc. The composition includes pre-determined percentages of copper sulfate, zinc sulfate, and aluminum sulfate by weight. The composition and method reduce amounts of chlorine and an amount of labor associated with the cleaning, sanitization and maintenance of contained bodies of water.

Abstract: A water disinfection delivery treatment system first filters the supply by a particle and then a carbon filter. The partially treated flow is split in two and a first part passes through a first cutoff valve and is fed into a disinfection (iodine) chamber, filter or feeder via a flow restricter. The chamber output passes through a second solenoid driven cutoff valve. The second part is fed to a third cutoff valve and this valve's output is summed with the second valve's output and then fed into a holding tank. The tank retain's a volume such that the water remains therein for at least a period sufficient to permit a minimum 3 log reduction of pathogenic microbes. A final carbon filter is downstream of the tank as is a meter and dispenser. A method is also provided for delivering potable drinking water.

Abstract: The present invention provides a physical water treatment (PWT) method and apparatus to treat liquid coolants. Electrodes (22, 24) are provided in a coolant stream (21), and an alternating voltage is applied across the electrodes (22, 24) to produce an electric field through the coolant. The alternating voltage creates an oscillating electric field in the coolant that promotes the collision of dissolved mineral ions. The ions collide to form seed particles that precipitate out of solution. Bulk precipitation of seed particles decreases the availability of ions in solution which can crystallize on heat transfer surfaces. The seed particles adhere to additional ions that separate out of solution and form larger particles that may be removed from the coolant stream (21) using a variety of treatment measures. In addition to precipitating mineral ions, the electric field may be applied to destroy bacteria, algae and microorganisms that accumulate in the coolant stream (21).

Abstract: This invention relates to a process for safely decontaminating the chill water used in meat processing. The decontaminant used in the process is chlorine dioxide.

Abstract: A system for elimination of unwanted species from contaminated ship ballast water. The apparatus comprises an electrolytic cell containing at least one pair of electrodes, electric alternating current, and parallel perforated electrodes, for providing an effective and safe method to render ballast water or other conductive bodies of water free of aquatic invasive species and/or unwanted biologics.

Abstract: A solid formulation for use with sodium chloride and a chlorine generator to provide safe, clean chlorinated recreational water. The formulation comprises a chlorine stabilizing agent and a phosphate remover agent. An enhanced salt comprising a chlorine stabilizing agent, a phosphate remover agent and sodium chloride is also described. The formulation and enhanced salt can also contain a metal chelating agent and a pH balancing agent. A cleaning agent may also be included. A fast dissolving sodium cyanurate compound is used for the chlorine stabilizing agent. A method, kit, and system for providing safe, clean chlorinated recreational water are also disclosed.

Abstract: Transition metal ions have the ability to increase the oxidation performance of the inorganic peroxy salts at room temperature by possibly lowering their activation energy or by producing more reactive free radicals. When two transition metal salts are used together to decompose dipersulfate, it provides synergistic oxidation activity, better than obtained by dipersulfate or dipersulfate with either copper or zinc alone. The transition metals mentioned are the water soluble salts of copper and zinc. Oxidation performance of sodium dipersulface in presence of catalytic amount of copper and zinc salts was determined by measuring the destruction of crystal violet dye at a wavelength of 589 nm.

Abstract: A filter housing assembly having a gas-tight seal and a method of replacing a filter are generally provided. In one embodiment, the filter housing assembly includes a housing having an opening adapted to receive a filter and an inlet. A seal member is coupled to the housing and is moveable between a first position and at least a second position, the second position sealing the inlet. The filter housing assembly may be configured to retain a roomside replaceable filter or have a filter permanently adhered within the opening.

Abstract: Compositions, methods and kits for purifying and clarifying and/or nutrifying contaminated drinking water and which comprise a primary coagulant material, a microbiocidal disinfectant and an oxidant system. Highly preferred compositions also contain one or more of a bridging flocculent material, the levels and ratios of coagulant to flocculent preferably falling within certain ranges, a cationic coagulant aid, especially chitosan, a water-soluble alkali, a water-insoluble silicate, and a food additive or nutrient source. The purified water remains free of discoloration for extended periods of storage.

Abstract: Installation for the removal and the deactivation of organisms in the ballast water, with the following characteristic features: a first feed pump for conveying the ballast water, an equipment for gravity precipitation of coarser solids and bigger organisms, connected to the first feed pump, and/or a backwashable filtration equipment, a downstream side connected equipment for the deactivation of micro-germs.

Abstract: An object of this invention is to change room temperature or cooling drinking water to hydrogen rich water that contains hydrogen abundantly simply and efficiently without using an electrolytic device, and a hydrogen rich water generator 2 is provided by filling magnesium grain 4 that generates hydrogen gases by reacting with the drinking water 6 and silver grain 3 into the case 1 made of ceramics of water permeability and porosity. This hydrogen rich water generator 2 together with the drinking water 6 are filled in the vessel 5, and the drinking water 6, magnesium grain 4 and the ceramics and the silver grain 3 are caused to react in the vessel 5 to generate the hydrogen gases, and the drinking water 6 in the vessel 5 is purified by the reaction of the silver grain 3 and is changed to the hydrogen rich water having hydrogen abundantly and anti-bacterial action.

Abstract: There is provided a method of inhibiting the development of a biofilm adjacent a surface, the method comprising intermittently applying a biofilm inhibiting substance to a collection of microorganisms having biofilm developing potential. Other embodiments are also described.

Abstract: The use of a composition effective in treatments for a waste treatment or sewage system is provided. The process of preparing such composition includes contacting hydrogen peroxide, glycolic acid, and water. The process can additionally include contacting with one or more additional components such as isopropyl alcohol.

Abstract: There is described a process for the treatment of water to prevent the survival of unwanted organisms in said water. The process is based on the supply of gas into the water at pressures greater than 1 atmosphere, while ensuring that the mass transport of gas into the water is greater than the mass loss across the air-water (surface) interface, i.e. such that a gas super-saturated condition is established. Further, there is described an apparatus or system for the treatment of a body of water, i.e. to prevent the survival of organisms in said water. A preferable embodiment comprises a compressor which delivers a compressed gas to said water system in an amount sufficient to establish a supersaturated condition in said body of water.

Abstract: A method of treating water includes exposing influent comprising water desired to be treated to ozone in sufficient quantity to disrupt cell walls of undesired microorganisms therein, thereby releasing nutrients from within the microorganisms in a form amenable to bioassimilation. The ozone is further in sufficient quantity to oxidize toxic, humic substances to a form amenable to plant bioassimilation. Aquatic plants are contacted with the ozone-exposed water, the aquatic plants being adapted to remove the released and oxidized nutrients therefrom. Water emerging from the aquatic plants is then again exposed to ozone in sufficient quantity to further purify the water.

Abstract: A method for stabilizing and removing Cryptosporidium oocysts or Giardia cysts from water. The method comprises adding chitosan, a salt or solution of chitosan to water containing Cryptosporidium oocysts or Giardia cysts and a halogenating agent. The method may also include adding a secondary polyelectrolyte flocculant to the water. The resulting flocs are filtered to remove the Cryptosporidium oocysts or Giardia cysts.

Abstract: A composition for disinfecting contaminated drinking water. The composition can include a disinfecting agent for disinfecting or sanitizing the water and a masking agent for masking or minimizing undesired characteristics of the disinfecting agent, such as taste and odor. The disinfecting agent can be a halogen-based disinfecting agent, such as a chlorine-based disinfecting agent. The masking agent can be a chlorine-compatible masking agent or flavorant, such as a citrus fruit derived flavor. The composition can also include a substrate. The substrate can be a clay, zeolite, water-soluble carrier, water-insoluble carrier, or mixtures thereof. The flavorant can be loaded onto the substrate. The composition can include other components, such as a primary coagulant, a coagulant aid, a bridging flocculant, a polymeric material, an alkali agent, an autocatalytic oxidant, and mixtures thereof.

Abstract: A method for suppressing the growth of mycobacteria associated with hypersensitivity pneumonitis, in particular Mycobacterium immunogenum, in metalworking fluids is described. The method uses antimicrobial or biocidal compositions which include a metal complex comprising disodium monocopper (II) citrate and an isothiazolone mixture preferably comprising 5-chloro-2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one 2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one. Also described are methods for detecting and identifying the mycobacteria.

Abstract: A method for reducing the production of sludge derived from the treatment of wastewater. The sludge is subjected to a mechanical action in the presence of a gas containing oxygen. The mechanical action is performed in such a way as to destroy the cell walls of between 5% and 80% of the microorganisms present in the sludge.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for purifying water by dissolving one or more soluble metal salts in the water to provide corresponding metal ions, by dissolving hypohalite into the water, and by regulating the residence time, and thus hypohalite concentration in the device using a venturi nozzle disposed between the metal generator and the hypohalite generator.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to purification systems, and to sanitization and/or sealing of the purification system. The purification system includes an electrodeionization device which can comprise one or a plurality of stages. The electrodeionization device can be constructed with a resilient sealing member forming a water-tight seal between rigid thermally and dimensionally stable compartment spacers. The construction of the electrodeionization device may allow cycling of hot water and/or other liquids, which, in some cases, can improve efficiency and performance of the electrodeionization device. Moreover, the cycling of hot water and/or other liquids may be used to sanitize the electrodeionization device to at least a pharmaceutically acceptable condition and, preferably, in certain instances, to meet at least minimum requirements according to U.S. Pharmacopoeia guidelines by inactivating any microorganisms present within the electrodeionization device.

Abstract: Environmentally friendly processes for prevention of qualitative deterioration and quantitative loss of plant matter and foodstuffs, during all stages of storage and handling, including pre- and post-harvest, pre- and post-planting, distribution and marketing involves the use of H2O2 compositions including Ag and at least one of Cu and Zn ions. The processes can also be used to prevent sprouting and rooting, and to promote fecundity of certain plant matter, and can also be used to eliminate or reduce quantities of harmful organisms and substances from soil, other growth media and substrates, equipment, materials water, workspaces and surfaces.

Abstract: A water-treating microbicide, containing an inorganic acid and a corrosion inhibitor, and further containing a carboxylic acid having 8 or less carbon atoms or any of alkali metal salts thereof. The present invention can provide a water-treating microbicide, water treatment method and water treatment apparatus exhibiting a high sterilization effect in a membrane separation device for seawater desalination, etc.

Abstract: A device (1) for preventing the growth of the bacteria or removing the bacteria bred on the inner wall surfaces of the ducts (8, 9, 10) of a dental unit, comprising a transponder (3) having a control unit (2) generating electric signals including audible frequency components, a coil (3a), and a case (3b) for storing the coil (3a) and mounting means (5) for mounting the transponder (3) on the outer wall surface of the duct (8), whereby an audible frequency electric signal allowed to transmit through the ducts (8, 9, 10) is generated by applying the electric signals to the coil (3a).

Abstract: The inventions of the present disclosure are directed to processes designed to recover water used in certain aspects of the processing of poultry, treat the recovered water to remove solids, fats, oils and greases, animal proteins and pathogenic organisms and to reuse the treated water for poultry processing operations. The processes described herein reduce bacteria and microorganisms associated with the poultry and reuse water. The present disclosure can be employed with an approach that includes unexpected positive results of reacting ozone and chlorine with water being treated for reuse to generate hypochlorous acid and/or other effective biocides. Ozone reacts with fats, oils, and greases, dissolved in the reuse water, to produce specific surface-active agents and surfactants which reduce the surface tension of the water which it is dissolved.

Abstract: In a process of eluting phosphorus from sludge into a liquid phase and recovering the phosphorus efficiently, cell walls of microorganisms in the sludge are ruptured by a process selected from crushing sludge (for example, treating with an ultrasonic wave homogenizer), treating with ozone, and treating with heat. Then the liquid phase is treated with alkali, thereby eluting the phosphorus into a liquid phase efficiently in a short time. By coagulating and precipitating, the phosphorus eluted into the liquid phase is recovered.

Abstract: A process for killing microorganisms and controlling biofouling in high chlorine demand waters comprises mixing two components, one of which is an oxidant and the other an ammonium salt, and adding the mixture immediately to the aqueous system to be treated.

Abstract: Compositions including alum and a smectite mineral material for the clarification of bodies of water by removal of dissolved solids, dissolved organic materials and other anions such as fluoride and chloride as well as the removal of total phosphorus from such bodies of water.

Abstract: A cartridge holder and a floating dispenser system for dispensing materials into a fluid with the floating dispenser system including a cartridge holder with receptacles for removably attaching or detaching at least two cartridge dispensers therein to allow one to simultaneously dispense materials into a fluid system by placing the floating dispensing system in a body of fluids and to replenish the system by merely removing and replacing a cartridge in the holder.

Abstract: There is provided a method of inhibiting the development of a biofilm adjacent a surface, the method comprising intermittently applying a biofilm inhibiting substance to a collection of microorganisms having biofilm developing potential. There is also provided a method of inhibiting the development of a biofilm adjacent a surface, the method comprising inhibiting the biofilm developing potential of a collection of microorganisms without completely eradicating said collection of microorganisms. Also provided are a system for inhibiting the development of a biofilm, and a method and system for inhibiting the production of an enzyme by a collection of microorganisms.

Abstract: A portable ultraviolet water purifier is disclosed which has an outer housing defining a water chamber with a coupling for attachment to a faucet an inlet and an outlet with an ultraviolet light source therein.

Abstract: A dendrimer complex comprising a dendrimer and an antimicrobial agent with the dendrimer complex placeable directly into a fluid to inhibit growth of microbes or rid the fluid of microbes. In a further embodiment of the invention the dendrimer complex is secured to a carrier, which is placed in a body of fluid and allowed to dispense the antimicrobial agent into the fluid. Once the antimicrobial agent is dispensed, the dendrimer complex can be removed and recycled to add functional groups to the dendrimer so that the dendrimer can be reused.

Abstract: An antimicrobial composition, methods of making the composition, and methods of using the composition. The composition comprises a substantially dry mixture of effective amounts of one or more quaternary ammonium compounds, one or more oxidizing agents, and one or more antimicrobial metallic compounds, such as silver-containing compounds. The composition is primarily directed to the sustained treatment of dental unit water.

Abstract: This invention relates to a method for preparing a stabilised stock hypobromous acid solution, and to a stabilised stock hypobromous acid solution. The stabilised stock solution has a hypobromous acid concentration of less than 30% (m/m) and contains an amount of cyanuric acid as a stabiliser not exceeding 1 ppm. The solution may be used for treating any type of water, but has particular application in treating drinking water and irrigation water.

Abstract: An iodine purification process comprising; a source of fluid; means for delivery of iodine to the source of fluid for use in the purification process; the process further comprising means for recovery of the iodine and/or iodine and/or other iodine species derived from the iodine, from said fluid.

Abstract: A biocidal composition includes, in combination, poly(hexamethylene)biguanide, didecyldimethylammonium chloride a homogenizing agent and a flocculating agent. The biocidal composition is used to treat water to control microorganisms.

Abstract: An apparatus for decontaminating water in an ice machine or a beverage-dispensing machine comprising an ultraviolet radiation source, an ozone source and a controller. As potable water enters the apparatus via a conduit, the potable water is decontaminated by an ultraviolet (UV) light source, which irradiates the potable water, and by an ozone generation system that provides ozone to be injected into the potable water to oxidize contaminants. Because water is often circulated within ice machines, the circulating water conduits and reservoir are also treated with ozone and UV radiation. The present invention also provides a controller for optimizing the decontamination process by providing UV light and ozone production only when required for decontamination. Typically, ozone generation and UV radiation are required whenever makeup potable water is brought into the apparatus or when the refrigeration compressor is running.

Abstract: A point-of-use filtering and water treating kit includes a container, a plurality of membrane-type filter elements and a filter basket to support the filter elements during use. The filter elements are contained within a reclosable package that is fitted within the container during storage. At least one ladle or other drinking cup is also contained within the container to provide a complete assembly for producing potable water. In use, the package containing the filter elements is removed from the container and a single filter element is placed in the filter basket. The filter basket is nested in the top end of the container and the water to be filtered is poured through the filter element. The filtered and purified water is collected within the container. In one embodiment, the filter elements contain a purifying agent, disinfectant or antimicrobial agent impregnated within the filter element to treat the water as the water is being filtered.

Abstract: A method of treating water includes exposing influent comprising water desired to be treated to ozone in sufficient quantity to disrupt cell walls of undesired microorganisms therein, thereby releasing nutrients from within the microorganisms in a form amenable to bioassimilation. The ozone is further in sufficient quantity to oxidize toxic, humic substances to a form amenable to plant bioassimilation. Aquatic plants are contacted with the ozone-exposed water, the aquatic plants being adapted to remove the released and oxidized nutrients therefrom. Water emerging from the aquatic plants is then again exposed to ozone in sufficient quantity to further purify the water.

Abstract: Free halogen sources (e.g., sodium hypochlorite and chlorine) added as slimicides in high organic component process streams such as pulp and paper processing are rendered more efficacious by the addition of selected N-hydrogen compounds (namely, 5,5-dimethylhydantoin, 5-ethyl-5-methylhydantoin, cyanuric acid, succinimide, urea, 4,4-dimethyl-2-oxazolidinone, and glycouril) to the process stream. The latter compounds may be added to the process stream before or after the slimicide is added or combined with the slimicide and added directly thereto. The direct use of halogenated hydantoins has also been found to provide improved efficacy relative to free halogen sources. In addition, absorbable organic halogen by-products are reduced.

Abstract: Microbicidal compositions are described. The compositions comprise (a) 2-(Thiocyanomethylthio)benzothiazole (TCMTB) and (b) an N-alkyl heterocyclic compound of the formula: The variable “n” ranges from 5 to 17, and the heterocyclic ring defined by is a substituted or unsubstituted ring having four to eight members. Components (a) and (b) are present in a combined amount effective to control the growth of at least one microorganism. Methods for controlling the growth of microorganisms on various substrates or in aqueous systems are also described. Also described is the industrial application of the microbicidal composition in the leather industry, the lumber industry, the papermaking industry, the textile industry, the agricultural industry, and the coating industry, as well as in aqueous systems.