Abstract: A method and apparatus for the humidification of gas streams, such as reactant gas streams for fuel cells, wherein the specific water evaporation rate, gas delivery temperature, and degree of gas humidity may be adjusted and maintained at predetermined levels. An ultrasonic device providing a water mist is used in the evaporation process. The amount of water vapor being introduced into the gas stream can be varied up to the saturation point of the reactant gas stream. As the water vapor leaves the evaporation chamber, it mixes with the gas stream in a gas humidification chamber or riser. The humidified reactant gas stream is then maintained at a set point temperature that is at least above the dew point temperature of the humidified reactant gas.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for remotely controlling a laboratory process operated by a controller. The remote control signal may originate from any one or more sensor that detects information that is relevant to the operation and control of a given laboratory process. Examples of sensors that could originate remote control signals include, but are not limited to, building smoke alarms, toxic gas monitors, and handheld remotes carried by laboratory technicians. A receiver communicates the change of state commands to the laboratory process, preferably to a programmable controller operating the laboratory process, directly to the laboratory process, or a combination thereof.