Abstract: The present disclosure provides approaches for reducing buildup of particulate-matter in particulate-matter-delivery systems. In some embodiments, a trough-shaped feeder is provided in which a rectangular-to-elliptical conduit extends from the trough-shaped feeder. The trough-shaped feeder has a substantially-rectangular feeder opening. The rectangular-to-elliptical conduit has an elliptical end and a rectangular end. The elliptical end of the rectangular-to-elliptical conduit has a substantially-elliptical conduit opening. Interfacing the storage hopper to the trough-shaped feeder via a elliptical-to-rectangular conduit reduces the particulate-matter-delivery system's susceptibility to bridges and rat holes.

Abstract: Example embodiments of the present invention include systems and methods for intermittent agitation of particulate matter. In some embodiments, a mechanical agitator is intermittently activated within in a particulate-matter-delivery system.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides approaches for reducing buildup of particulate-matter in particulate-matter-delivery systems. In some embodiments, a trough-shaped feeder is provided in which a rectangular-to-elliptical conduit extends from the trough-shaped feeder. The trough-shaped feeder has a substantially-rectangular feeder opening. The rectangular-to-elliptical conduit has an elliptical end and a rectangular end. The elliptical end of the rectangular-to-elliptical conduit has a substantially-elliptical conduit opening. Interfacing the storage hopper to the trough-shaped feeder via a elliptical-to-rectangular conduit reduces the particulate-matter-delivery system's susceptibility to bridges and rat holes.

Abstract: An elongated outdoor acoustic barrier for erection along a roadway or the periphery of an airport, for reflecting and absorbing sounds emanating from the roadway or airport, includes a plurality of substantially vertical columns arrayed at spaced intervals along the barriers' length, each having a recessed groove extending along its exposed above-ground lateral surface facing an adjacent spaced column; and a plurality of elongated flat rectangular panels arranged in a vertical edgewise array at least one panel in height, having opposite panel ends each securely embraced in a respective recessed grooves of a pair of adjacent columns, at least one of said panels being formed of extruded pre-stressed hollow core concrete plank.

Abstract: A method of creating a cold water conduit for use with an ocean thermal energy conversion plant by drilling and blasting at least one passageway completely through an underwater land formation.