Abstract: Biodegradable starch-based extruded products and methods of manufacturing those products are provided. In particular, extruded starch products processed by compression, stretching or compression and stretching provide excellent flexibility, pliability, dimensional stability, resiliency, abrasion resistance and other properties making them attractive for use as packaging materials.

Abstract: The present invention, according to a preferred embodiment, is directed to portable electronic devices which operate on exhaustible power sources, for example, batteries. The electronic devices of the present invention comprise at least one signal switch and a microchip in communication with the switch wherein the switch is only capable of transmitting a signal to the microchip that the switch has been activated or deactivated. The microchip is in communication with the exhaustible power source of the electronic device and controls (i) the power on/off function of the device, (ii) at least one other function of the device in response to activation and deactivation signals from the switch, and (iii) an automatic shut off function in response to the receipt of an activation signal from the switch.

Abstract: The present invention relates to detection and alarm systems for predicting and detecting the location of spills, leaks, emissions, and/or pollution sources, i.e., unwanted fluid (liquid/gas) flow/escape, at refineries, e.g., oil and gas refineries, and plants, e.g., petrochemical, chemical, pharmaceutical, and food processing plants, and avoiding said unwanted flow/escape. According to one embodiment, said system comprises at least one detector, at least one battery powered radio frequency transmitter, preferably, according to one embodiment, a 900 megahertz spread spectrum transmitter, and a central processing location which, according to one embodiment is preferably capable of handling up to 3000 points in a single cell site.

Abstract: The present invention, according to a preferred embodiment, is directed to portable electronic devices which operate on exhaustible power sources, for example, batteries. The electronic devices of the present invention comprise at least one signal switch and a microchip in communication with the switch wherein the switch is only capable of transmitting a signal to the microchip that the switch has been activated or deactivated. The microchip is in communication with the exhaustible power source of the electronic device and controls (i) the power on/off function of the device, (ii) at least one other function of the device in response to activation and deactivation signals from the switch, and (iii) an automatic shut off function in response to the receipt of an activation signal from the switch.

Abstract: A hazardous waste incinerator (100) includes a rotary kiln (120) with a helical flight (250) within. The kiln (120) is fed hazardous waste by either a continuous feed system (164) or a positive feed system (162). The kiln (120) is comprised of six retort sections (202, 202, 204, 206, 208, 210). The combusted waste is separated into ash and recoverable metals. The air flow is counter to the flow of waste through the kiln (120), with exhaust gases vented from the kiln entrance. Fugitive emissions are also contained by shrouds (164, 166) and containment building (160). These exhaust gases pass through the secondary combustor (130) to ensure destruction of any principle organic hazardous constituents. The exhaust gases are then treated in a spray dryer (140) to cool it and neutralize any acidic components. A baghouse (150) then removes any remaining particulate matter before the exhaust exits the stack (156).