Abstract: Nitric oxide in a gaseous stream is converted to nitrogen dioxide using oxidizing species generated at least in part using in situ UV radiation sources. The sources of the oxidizing species include oxygen and/or hydrogen peroxide. The oxygen may be a component of the gaseous stream or added to the gaseous stream, preferably near a UV radiation source, and is converted to ozone by the UV irradiation. The hydrogen peroxide is decomposed through a combination of vaporization and UV irradiation. The hydrogen peroxide is preferably stored at stable concentration levels, i.e., approximately 50% by volume, and increased in concentration in a continuous process preceding vaporization within the flow channel of the gaseous stream and in the presence of the UV radiation sources.

Abstract: A self-calibrating pressure transducer is disclosed. The device uses an embedded zirconia membrane which pumps a determined quantity of oxygen into the device. The associated pressure can be determined, and thus, the transducer pressure readings can be calibrated. The zirconia membrane obtains oxygen from the surrounding environment when possible. Otherwise, an oxygen reservoir or other source is utilized. In another embodiment, a reversible fuel cell assembly is used to pump oxygen and hydrogen into the system. Since a known amount of gas is pumped across the cell, the pressure produced can be determined, and thus, the device can be calibrated. An isolation valve system is used to allow the device to be calibrated in situ. Calibration is optionally automated so that calibration can be continuously monitored. The device is preferably a fully integrated MEMS device. Since the device can be calibrated without removing it from the process, reductions in costs and down time are realized.

Abstract: The present invention describes a process for converting vapor streams from sources containing at least one nitrogen-containing oxidizing agent therein to a liquid fertilizer composition comprising the steps of: a) directing a vapor stream containing at least one nitrogen-containing oxidizing agent to a first contact zone, b) contacting said vapor stream with water to form nitrogen oxide(s) from said at least one nitrogen-containing oxidizing agent, c) directing said acid(s) as a second stream to a second contact zone, d) exposing said second stream to hydrogen peroxide which is present within said second contact zone in a relative amount of at least 0.

Abstract: The present invention describes a process for converting vapor streams from sources containing at least one nitrogen-containing oxidizing agent therein to a liquid fertilizer composition comprising the steps of:a) directing a vapor stream containing at least one nitrogen-containing oxidizing agent to a first contact zone,b) contacting said vapor stream with water to form nitrogen oxide(s) from said at least one nitrogen-containing oxidizing agent,c) directing said acid(s) as a second stream to a second contact zone,d) exposing said second stream to hydrogen peroxide which is present within said second contact zone in a relative amount of at least 0.

Abstract: A chromatography device for separating sample fluids from carrier fluids and analyzing the sample is configured so that it is a modular unit. This modularity enables repairs to be quickly effected on the unit and also greatly simplifies the task of accessing the components of the chromatography cartridge. The modular chromatography cartridge is comprised of separation columns for separating the sample fluid from the carrier fluid. The cartridge additionally includes detectors for detecting distinguishing characteristics of fluids exiting the column. Further, the cartridge preferably includes valve assemblies for directing the flow of the carrier fluid and sample fluid throughout the cartridge and restrictors for adjusting the flow rate of the fluids as they flow through the cartridge. All of the components of the cartridge are configured upon a manifold. The manifold has a means for attaching the cartridge to fluid sources and support structure. The manifold enables the system to exhibit its modularity.

Abstract: Payload customers for the Space Shuttle have recently expressed concerns about the possibility of their payloads at an adjacent pad being contaminated by plume effluents from a shuttle at an active pad as they await launch on an inactive pad. As part of a study to satisfy such concerns a ring of inexpensive dosimeters was deployed around the active pad at the inter-pad distance. However, following a launch, dosimeters cannot be read for several hours after the exposure. As a consequence factors such as different substrates, solvent systems, and possible volatilization of HCl from the badges were studied. This observation led to the length of stain (LOS) dosimeters of this invention. Commercial passive LOS dosimeters are sensitive only to the extent of being capable of sensing 2 ppm to 20 ppm if the exposure is 8 hours. To map and quantitate the HCl generated by Shuttle launches, and in the atmosphere within a radius of 1.

Abstract: A dual-column, dual-detector gas detector and analyzer employs both a photo-ionization detector and a flame-ionization detector. In a survey mode, samples of ambient air are driven through both detectors, and the outputs of both detectors are used to determine the presence of one or more gasses. In analysis mode, fixed-volume samples of ambient air are driven through two elution columns having different properties. The output of each elution column is fed to one of the detectors. The arrival times of gas peaks at the two detectors are employed to develop two lists of candidate gasses. The lists are cross-checked for the presence of each candidate on both lists. Candidates identified from their presence on both lists are identified. A further check attempts to identify candidates which are identifiable from their presence on one of the lists, and not on the other. Components identified in this way are added to the final list.

Abstract: A high thermal conductivity combustion cone in combination with a chemical analysis instrument is disclosed. The cone functions to capture and rapidly volatilize a liquid sample drop injected into the instrument. The volatilized components are then reacted with a feed or carrier gas in the presence of a heated catalyst bed. Changes in the reacted gas are detected by a sensor and quantitatively analyzed as an indicator of the chemical nature of the sample.