Abstract: A granular component for use in a particulate detergent composition, the granules of which comprise an active substance and comprise an incomplete coating wherein less than 70% of the surface area of the component is coated. Preferably the granules are partially coated in a water-soluble partially hydrophobic coating.

Abstract: A continuous loop reactor system has flow channels in the form of 3-dimensional spirals, defined by a pair of nested vortical walls and vanes which extend from the innermost of the vortical walls towards the outermost wall without contact. The vanes in combination with the vortical walls define a false bottom ditch for treating waste water, particularly for oxidative denitrification. Air exposure is limited to the beginning portion of the spiral flow pattern where the process is still in its aerobic stage. Denitrification is completed in an anoxic stage as waste water progresses further along the pattern. Aeration and motivation are provided by a lift tube/aerator assembly. By employing a false bottom, frictional surface area is decreased and sediment accumulation is eliminated between two vertically adjacent flow paths to provide energy efficient water treatment at low minimum flow rates.

Abstract: An air-tight containment structure for the digestion of biomass may be collapsed under atmospheric pressure by drawing a vacuum therein, thereby compressing the contained fiber matrix and enhancing the wetting of the biomass. Reagents may be added in quantities to wet only an initial upper layer, and then dispersed downwardly into a further layer by addition of a displacing liquid.