Abstract: A device for the microbiological detection and analysis of a controlled interface where known and controlled exposure of a sample of interest interacts with one of series of porous reactive zones in a manner that allows discernable activity to be detected. A favorable environment within the device allows agents emanating from the sample of interest to react with specific agents emanating from the porous reaction zone in a manner that is repeatable and precise.

Abstract: The device comprises a microbiologically interactive platform within a liquid-based environment. The platform is positioned by a vertical positioning pin rising centrally from the floor of the device with a floating ball within the device that angles the platform in a specific manner that creates a multiplicity of environments within the device. While the device remains dry, there are no significant microbiological interactions. When a suitably prepared liquid sample is added then there are interactions that allow the determinative analysis of any generated microbiologically generated reactions and responses. These activities are generated primarily from the positioning of the microbiologically interactive platform wherein the platform is formed into an angled profile positioned by the floating ball and the base of the vertical extension pillar. When so positioned, both oxidative and reductive environments are created.

Abstract: A device for the microbiological detection and analysis of a controlled interface where known and controlled exposure of a sample of interest interacts with one of series of porous reactive zones in a manner that allows discernable activity to be detected. A favorable environment within the device allows agents emanating from the sample of interest to react with specific agents emanating from the porous reaction zone in a manner that is repeatable and precise.

Abstract: A test device provides an enclosed culture device for safe determination of the presence of a targeted microorganism. A test chamber is concentrically received within a culture chamber, and caps allow selective opening of one chamber without opening the other. A window in the test chamber allows selective flow of liquid between chambers, the window being so placed as to require particular manipulation of the chambers. The test chamber contains a culture medium and, through appropriate manipulation, a sample in the culture chamber is caused to wet the culture medium. The device is then incubated, and the sample in the culture chamber maintains high humidity in the test chamber because of the window. A pre-treatment vial is also provided so the sample can be treated before being placed into the culture chamber, to eliminate interfering organisms or the like.

Abstract: The environment in a porous area, such as in an aquifer in controlled to promote the growth of indigenous microorganisms as well as introduced microorganisms. Nutrients and other growth-promoting chemicals are added to cause the organisms to grow and produce a biofilm that retards fluid movement. Tubes are inserted into the target area, and fluids containing nutrients and other chemical are circulated through the porous area, the paths of circulation defining the areas of growth of microorganisms to produce a barrier, referred to as a biowall. After the biowall has served its purpose, it can be dispersed by injecting chemicals to stop growth and/or to kill the microorganisms.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for testing for the presence of selected microorganisms can be used in the field or in the laboratory. A sample to be tested is mixed with a culture medium for promoting growth of the selected microorganisms. A test device of a semi-permeable material is inverted in the culture medium, and the test device is held to a vertical position. The microorganisms create a biofilm within the test device, and the test device subsequently retains gas generated by the microorganisms. The gas lowers the density of the test device, causing the test device to float. The floating is taken as an indication of the presence of the selected microorganisms; and, by measuring the time required for the test device to float, the size of the population of the selected microorganisms can be determined.

Abstract: A testing device allows field tests to determine the presence of microorganisms in a given fluid. A container may have a culture medium in dry form, and a floatable device in the container. When a liquid sample is placed into a container, the floatable device floats on the surface and intercedes the exchange of oxygen from the atmosphere to the liquid. An oxygen content sufficient for aerobes is provided at the surface of the liquid, a reduced oxygen content for microaerobes provided just below the intercedent device, and no-oxygen content for anaerobes is provided at the bottom of the container. Selection of the culture medium can assist in detecting specific organisms, and further information can be gained by observing colorations, gas bubbles, precipitates and the like.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for cleaning a well wherein chemicals are applied to the well screen with steam. The well screen may be first washed with a sterilizing agent, and subsequently a chemical mix is added to the steam. The chemical mix includes a sterilizing agent, an acid, and perhaps a surfactant. The well is capped during treatment so the well becomes pressurized; and, the chemical mix is forced out beyond the well screen. The surfactant aids in penetrating the clog, while the sterilizing agent kills any plant or animal life that is causing or contributing to the clog. Some sterilizing agent may remain to prevent regrowth of life forms that may feed on other chemical components. The well may be surged to assist further in breaking up the mass clogging the well.