Abstract: The present invention provides a method for oxidizing a substance (e.g., in a waste stream, drinking water, a paper pulp slurry, or on a surface), which uses free radicals and reactive species generated from multiple oxidants. The method comprises combining peroxynitrite or peroxynitrous acid and at least one additional oxidizing agent for a period of time sufficient to oxidize the substance of interest. The peroxynitrite or peroxynitrous acid preferably is formed by irradiation of nitrate ion and/or nitric acid (e.g., with UV or gamma rays). The yield of free radicals and reactive species, which are the intermediate species that perform the oxidation may be increased by addition of a catalysts, electromagnetic radiation, sonic waves, and/or electrolysis.

Abstract: A hemodialysis apparatus separates constituents from blood plasma utilizing layered gel membranes of differing permeabilities configured as a U-tube. Physical filter pressing of blood plasma is accomplished by pinching gel beds along the U-tube axis where localized pressure rise and centrifugal forces are established. The U-tube fold also establishes chemical countercurrent pumping across the gel beds. Capillary and electroosmotic gel filtration further accomplishes selective chemical removal and readsorption.

Abstract: Metals and organics are extracted from solution by co-precipitating them with a gel comprising aluminum hydroxide and a complexing agent such as EDTA. After the gel is processed to remove the metals and organics, it can be recycled for further use by dissolving it in a high-pH solution, leaving no secondary waste stream. A number of alternative complexing agents perform better than EDTA.