Abstract: Apparatus and continuous-flow process for producing a solution of chlorine dioxide by reaction between a hypochlorite, a chlorite and an acid in a gas generator-reactor comprising a plurality of separate reaction chambers interconnected in series arrangement, in which liquid reactants flow through successive stages, but chlorine dioxide is prevented from flowing between stages. A water-driven venturi eductor removes gaseous reaction products and maintains a vacuum within the reaction chambers. Gaseous reaction products are mixed with the eductor exhaust water. A separate eductor may be provided to remove liquid products of reaction from the gas generator-reactor.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for application of sprout-inhibiting chemical agents to surface-sprouting produce. Liquid sprout-inhibiting chemical such as isopropyl N-3 chlorophenylcarbamate (CIPC), either without solvent or with a relatively small amount of solvent, is atomized at a temperature less than 250.degree. F. to form an aerosol of liquid particles. The aerosol is preferably formed in a fogger having a cylindrical mist chamber in which ultrasonic resonance nozzles atomize the chemical agent. A tangentially introduced air flow and a helical baffle plate in the mist chamber cause centrifugal separation and leave smaller particles near the center of the mist chamber. A chamber contains a supply of sprout-inhibiting chemical and also collects chemical agent of such large particle size that it has been separated from the aerosol. A thermostatically controlled heater located in the sump warms the sprout-inhibiting chemical in the sump to a temperature above ambient but below 250.degree. F.