Abstract: A method of forming a metallic structure on an optical element including a surface relief structure is disclosed. The method includes: forming a metallic structure on the optical element by applying a metal containing ink to the surface relief structure. The metal-containing ink includes an organic solvent and a metal-containing component. The metal-containing component is a homogeneously soluble metal salt, a metal complex or any combinations thereof.

Abstract: There is provided a method of forming a metallic structure on an optical element comprising a surface relief structure, the method comprising: applying a metal-containing ink to said surface relief structure to form said metallic structure, wherein the metal-containing ink comprises one or more organic solvents and one or more of: a homogeneously soluble metal salt; a metal complex; or metallic nanoparticles having a size of less than 50 nm.

Abstract: A container loading and unloading device for attaching to a counter surface comprising a support arm having a first end and a second end opposite each other. The support arm is rotatably mounted to a clamp means between the first end and the second end of the support arm. The clamp means is fixedly attached to the counter surface in such a manner that the support arm rotates in a vertical plane. A first and second pedestal are attached to the two ends of the support arm. The pedestals may be flat or shaped. The article to be loaded is placed on the pedestal in the uppermost position. A container or bag is placed over the article and the article and the container are held in position on the pedestal and the support arm is rotated 180.degree.. The container with the article in it is then removed.