Abstract: Surface modified filter media, including surface modified filter media having enhanced performance characteristics, are provided. In some embodiments, a filter media may comprise two or more layers designed to enhance fluid separation efficiency. One or more of the layers may have at least a portion of a surface that is modified to alter and/or enhance the wettability of the surface with respect to a particular fluid. In certain embodiments involving a filter media including more than one surface modified layer, at least one surface modified layer may have a greater air permeability and/or mean flow pore size than that of another surface modified layer. Such a configuration of layers may result in the media having enhanced fluid separation properties compared to filter media that do not include such modified layers or configuration of layers, all other factors being equal. The filter media may be well-suited for a variety of applications, including filtering fuel, air, and lube oil.

Abstract: Fiber webs which are used in filter media are described herein. In some embodiments, the fiber webs include fibrillated fibers and optionally non-fibrillated fibers, amongst other optional components (e.g., binder resin). In some embodiments, the fiber webs include limited amounts of, or no, glass fiber. The respective characteristics and amounts of the fibrillated fibers are selected to impart desirable properties including mechanical properties and filtration properties (e.g., dust holding capacity and efficiency), amongst other benefits.

Abstract: Fiber webs which are used in filter media are described herein. In some embodiments, the fiber webs include fibrillated fibers and optionally non-fibrillated fibers, amongst other optional components (e.g., binder resin). In some embodiments, the fiber webs include limited amounts of, or no, glass fiber. The respective characteristics and amounts of the fibrillated fibers are selected to impart desirable properties including mechanical properties and filtration properties (e.g., dust holding capacity and efficiency), amongst other benefits.

Abstract: An electrical power generating apparatus utilizes an oscillating assembly to power at least one generator. The oscillating assembly comprises an off-balanced wheel assembly having either a partially circumferential wheel ring or a circular wheel ring with an off-balanced weight distribution, assembled to a centrally located wheel hub. The pendulum assembly is pivotally assembled to a frame via the wheel hub. A counterbalancing beam extends upwardly from the wheel hub, bisecting the wheel, placing equal mass to each side, such that the pendulum assembly is symmetric. Weights can be disposed upon each of the counterbalancing beam and the wheel assembly to aid in optimizing the teetering operation of the oscillating assembly. As the oscillating assembly operates, the motion is transferred to the at least generator which creates an electrical power output. An actuator injects energy into the oscillating motion to overcome any losses due to friction, air resistance, and such.

Abstract: Water dispersible fiber products are provided. In one embodiment, a water dispersible fiber sheet is provided and it is preferably formed from regenerated cellulose fibers, a second fiber that is adapted to provide strength to the water dispersible fiber sheet, and a water soluble binder. In use, the fiber sheet can be formed into a variety of products including, for example, for labels, packaging, medical and health care products. The fiber sheet is particularly advantageous in that it is readily dispersible upon contact with water, yet it will retain its strength when used with other fluids, such as alcohol and oils. The biodegradability of the fiber sheet will also allow the fibers to be consumed naturally by environmental bacteria, thus eliminating the need for special disposal procedures. In another embodiment, the water dispersible fiber sheet can be incorporated into a filter media.