Abstract: A microbubble generator is disclosed for optimizing the rate and amount of xygen transfer to microbial inocula or biocatalysts in bioreactor systems. The microbubble generator, and an associated immobilized cell reactor, are useful in the detoxification and cleanup of non-volatile polymeric and volatile organic-contaminated aqueous streams. In particular, they are useful in the continuous mineralization and biodegradation of toxic organic compounds, including volatile organic compounds, associated with industrial and municipal effluents, emissions, and ground water and other aqueous discharges. One embodiment of the invention includes a microbubble chamber packed with small inert particles through which a liquid effluent and oxygen or another gas are admitted under pressure, followed by a venturi chamber to further reduce the size of bubbles.

Abstract: A coal gasifier slag composition, and process utilizing a coal gasifier slag composition for the removal of a metal ion, or the ions of a plurality of metals, from an aqueous medium by contact of said coal gasifier slag composition with said aqueous medium. The coal gasifier slag, which is regenerable by contact with a dilute acid, is employed as a contact mass for the removal from an aqueous medium of a metal ion, or the ions of a plurality of metals, derived from Groups IB through VIIB, IIA through VA, and VIII of the Periodic Table of the Elements. The coal gasifier slag is useful for removing a metal ion, or the ions of a plurality of metals, from industrial waste water, groundwater, mine water and the like, or as a landfill, or as a protecting layer adjacent to or surrounding land fills, surface impoundments, tank farm beds and the like.

Abstract: A process for the preparation of a cellulose ether by reacting in a heterogenous reaction mixture an alkaline solution and an etherifying agent with a fibrous cellulose. The total of the required stoichiometric amount of the alkaline solution and at least a portion of the etherifying agent required in producing the cellulose ether are admixed (e.g. in a mixing nozzle) at sufficiently low temperature to suppress reaction between the alkaline solution and the etherifying agent. The admixture is then contacted with the cellulose fibers, preferably by spraying the admixture thereupon. Additional of the etherifying agent if required is then added to the reaction mixture, and the heterogenous reaction mixture is agitated and reacted at an initial temperature below 40.degree. C. sufficient to produce alkalization of the cellulose. Thereafter the temperature is increased above 40.degree. C., preferably incrementally or gradually up to about 100.degree. C., preferably to 80.degree. C.

Abstract: An improved electrolytic cell, the electrodes of which can be readily cleaned, and resensitized by the application of fresh electrolyte upon the electrodes. The cell includes a cleaning assembly integral with the cell body, and the electrodes of the cell are integrated with a plunger reciprocably mounted within the cell body. In operating position, the electrodes are extended by actuation of the plunger into a thimble insert which, with the components provided by the thimble insert provide the essential components of an operative cell. The plunger, when the cell has become insensitive due to desensitization of the electrolyte, can be withdrawn from the thimble insert, aligned with the cleaning apparatus, the electrodes cleaned and a fresh electrolyte installed upon the electrodes, and the electrodes returned to operative position by mere reactuation of the plunger.