Abstract: A micro-etcher that utilizes abrasive dust as the abrasive material, and which provides for effective dust suppression through the use of a gas-liquid aerosol spray. The tool consists of a means for the emission of an abrasive-laden stream of gas. A spray of gas-liquid aerosol is also emitted from the tool in a manner which effectively controls widespread contamination by the emitted abrasive material.

Abstract: Disclosed is a mixer comprising a receptacle, a support, a gas tube and a shaker. The receptacle defines a chamber including a lower portion for receiving a supply of particulate material and an upper portion contiguous with the lower portion. The receptacle has an inlet formed therethrough contiguous with the lower portion and an outlet formed therethrough contiguous with the upper portion. A support is provided, for supporting the receptacle for vibratory movement. A gas tube delivers a flow of gas to the inlet. A shaker is connected to the receptacle to effect said vibratory movement in a manner sufficiently vigorous to create a dispersion of said particulate material through which gas delivered to the inlet can diffuse to the outlet, at least a portion of said dispersion being fluidized so as to issue, with said gas, through the outlet as a flow of gas having particulate material entrained therewithin.

Abstract: An abrasion device is disclosed, which utilizes abrasive dust as abrasive material, and which provides for effective dust suppression through the use of a liquid-gas aerosol spray. The device consists of a means for the emission of a stream of the abrasive material. A spray of gas-liquid aerosol is also emitted from the device in a manner which effectively controls widespread contamination by the emitted abrasive material.