Abstract: A process for producing chlorine for treating flowing water supplies especially micro systems such as drip irrigation systems to control microorganisms present in these waters. It also relates to a chlorinator for practicing the process. The process comprises the steps of (a.) blending in a high pressure tank an excess of calcium hypochlorite and water to form a saturated top of the tank for feeding chlorinated water to a water supply containing microorganisms; (b.) sealing the tank; (c.) displacing a portion of the calcium hypochlorite sink by feeding water from the high pressure, variable speed pump to the dip tube. This forms additional saturated calcium hypochlorite solution; (d.) withdrawing saturated calcium hypochlorite solution through the feed line and adding the calcium hypochlorite to the flowing water supply; and, (e.) controlling the amount of calcium hypochlorite, e.g. chlorination rate fed to the flowing water supply by adjusting the delivery rate of the high pressure pump.

Abstract: Concentrated aqueous gypsum slurries containing small amounts of water soluble phosphonates are non-clogging when used in drip irrigation systems.

Abstract: A medium for enhancing growth and availability of water and nutrients during plant growth, comprising a synthetic resin and a support material, the resin consisting essentially of a substantially-linear, non-gelling, water-soluble polymer capable of forming a water absorbing network with the support material, such that the polymer is dispersed within the material upon exposure to water and retains and transports water and nutrients for seedling growth. Use of such polyacrylamides benefits growth by retaining water, reducing evaporation loss, improving yields and enhancing nutrient uptake.

Abstract: A biocide composition including an active material selected from the group consisting of insecticides, herbicides, fungicides and rodenticides, and an aqueous polyolefinic emulsion. Alternatively, the composition can include an active material such as a nutrient or plant growth regulator and the polyolefin can be present in other suitable media to provide, in any embodiment, improved retention/sticker properties.

Abstract: An aqueous polyolefinic emulsion for a biocide composition including an active material selected from the group consisting of insecticides, herbicides, fungicides and rodenticides. Alteratively, the composition can include an active material such as a nutrient or plant growth regulator and the polyolefin can be present in other suitable media to provide, in any embodiment, improved retention/sticker properties.

Abstract: A medium for enhancing growth and availability of water during a mushroom life cycle, comprising a synthetic resin and a casing material, the resin consisting essentially of a substantially-linear water-soluble polymer capable of forming a water absorbing network within the casing material, such that the polymer is dispersed within the casing material upon exposure to water and retains water for mycelia to mushroom growth progression. Use of polyacrylamides benefits growth by retaining water, reducing evaporation loss, improving yields, and increasing product distribution into larger size ranges.