Abstract: A method and system are disclosed for impregnating a porosity of a part with sealant without immersing the part in sealant or using a known batch process. At least one fill source and at least one drain source are connected to the part, wherein the fill source and drain source are each in communication with a porosity of the part. In one aspect a vacuum is applied through the fill source and through the porosity, and sealant is then released into the porosity. Pressure can be applied to the porosity after the sealant is released into the porosity to assist in pushing the sealant into the porosity. Excess uncured sealant can be removed by injecting water into the porosity and then drawing out the water with the excess sealant. Heated water may be introduced into the porosity to cure the sealant if the sealant requires heat to cure.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a recombinant vector capable of directing the synthesis of gas vesicles in a non-floating cells. Cells transformed by the vector of the invention are also provided. The present invention is further directed to a method for conferring buoyancy to non-floating cells. The method of the instant invention is useful in harvesting cells, for example in fermentation processes, and in bioremediation, for example in conferring buoyancy to hydrocarbon-degrading bacteria.