Abstract: A method of determining beryllium or a beryllium compound in a sample is disclosed by measuring fluorescence. This method discloses use of highly strong acids to extract beryllium from samples into the acidic medium, and then using these solutions in combination with highly alkaline fluorescent indicating dye solutions to determine the amount of beryllium in the samples.

Abstract: An integrated window structure having opposing substrates that sandwich an electrochromic coating, a dye layer and an ion-isolating mechanism. In some embodiments, this is a selective ion-conductive layer and other embodiments incorporate nanostructures and polymers to tether the dye ions; these methods prevent dye ions from transporting into the electrochromic layer during redox activity. Control and systems to integrate the electrochromic elements in windows is provided.

Abstract: A method of determining beryllium or a beryllium compound thereof in a sample is disclosed by measuring fluorescence. This method discloses use of highly strong acids to extract beryllium from samples into the said acidic medium, and then using these solutions in combination with alkaline fluorescent indicating dye solutions to determine the amount of beryllium in the said samples. Further, the method also discloses measuring fluorescence under highly alkaline conditions, where the pH after mixing the highly alkaline fluorescent indicating dye solutions with the sample solution containing beryllium is at least 11.3.

Abstract: A method of determining beryllium or a beryllium compound thereof in a sample is disclosed by measuring fluorescence. This method discloses use of highly alkaline fluorescent indicating dye solutions with pH greater than 12.9. In a preferred embodiment the fluorescent indicating dye solutions do not contain a pH buffer. Further, the method also discloses measuring fluorescence under highly alkaline conditions, where the pH after mixing the highly alkaline fluorescent indicating dye solutions with the sample solution containing beryllium is at least 11, preferably 12. The use of highly alkaline solution provides superior detection limits for beryllium by using dilution ratios of 4× and lower.

Abstract: An integrated window structure having opposing substrates that sandwich an electrochromic coating, a dye layer and an ion-isolating mechanism. In some embodiments, this is a selective ion-conductive layer and other embodiments incorporate nanostructures and polymers to tether the dye ions; these methods prevent dye ions from transporting into the electrochromic layer during redox activity. Control and systems to integrate the electrochromic elements in windows is provided.

Abstract: A method of determining beryllium or a beryllium compound thereof in a sample is disclosed by measuring fluorescence. This method discloses use of highly alkaline fluorescent indicating dye solutions with pH greater than 12.9. In a preferred embodiment the fluorescent indicating dye solutions do not contain a pH buffer. Further, the method also discloses measuring fluorescence under highly alkaline conditions, where the pH after mixing the highly alkaline fluorescent indicating dye solutions with the sample solution containing beryllium is at least 11, preferably 12. The use of highly alkaline solution provides superior detection limits for beryllium by using dilution ratios of 4× and lower.

Abstract: A beach toy is provided to make a moat that is shaped and dimensioned to correspond with an impermeable moat liner. The beach toy includes a shovel, a cord, and a stake. The cord interconnects the shovel and the stake. In use, the stake is inserted into a porous medium. Next, the shovel is pulled away from the stake until the cord is taut. The blade of the shovel is inserted into the porous medium and moved about the stake while keeping the cord taught to remove material and form a annular-shaped moat.

Abstract: A stable electrochromic stack is provided that is able to persistently hold a desired optical state. The stable electrochromic stack has at least two states. One state may be, for example, a bleached state in which light may readily pass, and the other state may be a colored state that distorts or interferes with the passage of light. Advantageously, the persistent electrochromic stack holds one or both of the optical states without the application of external power. The persistent time period may extend for days, weeks, or years depending on particular constructions, and on application requirements.

Abstract: An expandable toy having a plurality of fabric panels joined along their sides forming a desired shape and defining an interior space. These panels also define a single aperture at the top of the toy that provides access to the interior space. A plurality of elastic bands run along the interior surface of the fabric panels. An inflatable device is disposed within the interior space and the neck of the inflatable device is accessible through the single aperture at the top of the toy. Air is forced into the inflatable device, expanding the inflatable device and when large enough expanding the plurality of elastic bands so that the toy may achieve a desired size. The inflatable device is then sealed and a fabric lid is closed to cover the single aperture when the desired size is achieved.