Abstract: A batch-automated microfiltration press for producing large uniform thickness nanomaterial sheets includes a filtration envelope of variable size that is defined between an upper platen having a fixed position and a lower platen disposed in spaced apart, parallel relation to the upper platen. The upper platen has a plurality of input nozzles and a plurality of flow dispersers associated with each of the input nozzles. Nanoparticles are deposited onto a fine filter membrane positioned in the filtration envelope. Flow channels and drain holes are formed in the lower platen. Each of the flow channels has a non-linear path of travel. A closed-loop fluid control system maintains a predetermined rate of nanoparticle deposition onto the fine filter membrane. A motion control system controls the raising and the lowering of the lower platen, maintaining a constant displacement instead of constant pressure, enabling the production of clean, undamaged sheets of nanomaterial papers.

Abstract: The present invention is a hydrated, nanocellulose nonwoven sheet and method for manufacturing the nanocellulose sheet having dermatologically active ingredients. The sheet is formed through a high pressure or vacuum filtration process from a dilute suspension. This suspension, which contains the nanocellulose, may also contain dermatologically active ingredients. The dermatologically active ingredients are incorporated into the unwoven sheet. The dilute suspension may contain binding agents that improve the strength of the nonwoven nanocellulose sheet. These binding agents can also be cross-linked after the formation of the sheet by applying other chemical agents or treating the sheet after formation.

Abstract: A hydrated, nanocellulose nonwoven sheet and method for manufacturing the nanocellulose sheet having dermatologically active ingredients is disclosed. The sheet is formed through a high pressure or vacuum filtration process from a dilute suspension. This suspension, which contains the nanocellulose, may also contain dermatologically active ingredients. The dermatologically active ingredients are incorporated into the unwoven sheet. The dilute suspension may contain binding agents that improve the strength of the nonwoven nanocellulose sheet. These binding agents can also be cross-linked after the formation of the sheet by applying other chemical agents or treating the sheet after formation.

Abstract: A combination apparatus integrates the operation of a snorkel with a diving regulator having a breathing chamber and a diaphragm/purge valve chamber. A compressed air tank is in fluid communication with the diving regulator and a normally closed regulator valve is disposed between the compressed air tank and the diving regulator. A regulator valve spring maintains the regulator valve in the normally closed position. In a first embodiment, the regulator valve spring exerts about eight pounds per square inch on the normally closed regulator valve. Air enters into the breathing chamber from the compressed air tank through the diaphragm/purge valve chamber when the submerged diver inhales. The apparatus enables surface snorkeling and underwater diving and the diver need not switch from a snorkel mouthpiece to a diving regulator mouthpiece. Further embodiments re-locate the snorkel tube exhaust valve and add a two-position valve to the snorkel main tube.

Abstract: A combination apparatus integrates the operation of a snorkel with a diving regulator having a breathing chamber and a diaphragm/purge valve chamber. A compressed air tank is in fluid communication with the diving regulator and a normally closed regulator valve is disposed between the compressed air tank and the diving regulator. A regulator valve spring maintains the regulator valve in the normally closed position. In a first embodiment, the regulator valve spring exerts about eight pounds per square inch on the normally closed regulator valve. Air enters into the breathing chamber from the compressed air tank through the diaphragm/purge valve chamber when the submerged diver inhales. The apparatus enables surface snorkeling and underwater diving and the diver need not switch from a snorkel mouthpiece to a diving regulator mouthpiece. Further embodiments re-locate the snorkel tube exhaust valve and add a two-position valve to the snorkel main tube.