Abstract: A method and apparatus for eliminating voids and improving crystal quality in shaped ceramic product, e.g. sapphire fiber or silicon sheet, from a melt by using a sloped die tip. The sloped die tip or array thereof comprises an outer sidewall which is sloped outwardly at an angle of 5° to 40° from the vertical.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for eliminating voids and improving crystal quality in shaped ceramic product, e.g. sapphire fiber or silicon sheet, from a melt by using a sloped die tip. The sloped die tip or array thereof comprises an outer sidewall which is sloped outwardly at an angle of 5° to 40° from the vertical.

Abstract: A flexible pH probe device is provided for use in hot water and other high temperature environments up to about 590° F. The pH probe includes a flexible, inert tubular probe member, an oxygen anion conducting, solid state electrolyte plug located at the distal end of the tubular member, oxide powder disposed at the distal end of the tubular member; a metal wire extending along the tubular member and having a distal end in contact with the oxide powder so as to form therewith an internal reference electrode; and a compression fitting forming a pressure boundary seal around a portion of the tubular member remote from the distal end thereof. Preferably, the tubular member is made of polytetrafluoroethylene, and the solid state electrolyte plug is made of stabilized zirconia. The flexibility of the probe member enables placement of the electrode into the area of interest, including around corners, into confined areas and the like.

Abstract: Turgor pressure is measured in a cellular sample by contacting the sample with a convex probe, measuring the area of contact and using a formula to convert the area into turgor pressure.

Abstract: A pressure vessel is provided for observing corrosive fluids at high temperatures and pressures. A transparent Teflon bag contains the corrosive fluid and provides an inert barrier. The Teflon bag is placed within a sapphire tube, which forms a pressure boundary. The tube is received within a pipe including a viewing window. The combination of the Teflon bag, sapphire tube and pipe provides a strong and inert pressure vessel. In an alternative embodiment, tie rods connect together compression fittings at opposite ends of the sapphire tube.

Abstract: A method of measuring the level of a corrosive, high-pressure, high-temperature liquid in a closed container of a nuclear reactor, by providing a generally tubular structure connected to the closed container of the nuclear reactor so that the level of liquid in the tubular structure is indicative of the level of liquid in the closed container, providing a sealed buoyant float sized to move vertically up an down within the tubular structure, the float being formed of beryllium, detecting from outside the tubular structure the vertical position of said buoyant float, the position corresponding to the level of liquid in the closed container.