Abstract: A microwave heating system which is especially useful for rapidly, uniformly and positively sterlizing biological media, such as broths and gels used as incubation or growth media for bacteria, includes a source of microwave radiation, a microwave chamber, a container or a plurality of containers in the chamber, and a mixer for mixing the contents of the container or containers during heating. The mixer is at least partially external to the container and is capable of operating when the container is positively sealed to prevent contamination of the contents, and the mixer is preferably a combination of an external magnet and a mixing element which is at least in part of magnetic material and is moved by changes in the magnetic field set up by the magnet, as the container and contained mixing element are moved with respect to the magnet, as on an oscillating turntable.

Abstract: A microwave oven particularly suitable for laboratory analytical use is described. The oven is designed for chemical digestion and the drying of materials to very low moisture levels. The oven utilizes a rotating platform to move the material being subjected to microwave radiation through the oven chamber to ensure uniform contact of the microwaves with the material. Radiation mixers and radiation isolators are also used to disperse radiation in the oven and absorb excess radiation.

Abstract: A microwave oven particularly suitable for laboratory analytical use is described. The oven is designed for chemical digestion and the drying of materials to very low moisture levels. The oven utilizes a rotating platform to move the material being subjected to microwave radiation through the oven chamber to ensure uniform contact of the microwaves with the material. Radiation mixers and radiation isolators are also used to disperse radiation in the oven and absorb excess radiation.