Abstract: Apparatus is described for rapidly coating a large area, or for rapidly producing a powder. In one embodiment, a liquid having a coating chemical is pumped from a liquid reservoir to a distribution manifold. From the distribution manifold, the liquid is carried under pressure to a geometric array, e.g., linear, of atomization nozzles. Flow equalization means are provided for equalizing the flow of the liquid delivered to each nozzle, and, preferably, means are provided for equalizing the temperature of the liquid delivered to each nozzle. The liquid, upon exiting the nozzles with the attendant pressure drop atomizes. The atomized liquid coats a substrate either in non-reacted or reacted form, or forms a powder. In a preferred embodiment, a solution of precursor chemical is reacted in a geometric array of flames produced at the nozzles, and a coating material produced in the flame coats the substrate, or a powder is formed.

Abstract: Disclosed are formulations of gamma-hydroxybutyrate in an aqueous medium that are resistant to microbial growth. Also disclosed are formulations of gamma-hydroxybutyrate that are also resistant to the conversion into GBL. Disclosed are methods to treat sleep disorders, including narcolepsy, with these stable formulations of GHB. The present invention also provides methods to treat alcohol and opiate withdrawal, reduced levels of growth hormone, increased intracranial pressure, and physical pain in a patient.