Abstract: A process for creating and controlling the flow of a stream of liquid droplets of a predetermined maximum size in a stream of gas in which the liquid is first passed through a means to produce a fine spray, mist, or fog in the stream of gas and in which the subsequent stream of droplets and gas is treated in a device designed to remove larger droplets and allow the stream of gas containing the small droplets of a predetermined maximum size to pass to the inlet of a gas compressor.

Abstract: An improvement in the delignification (pulping) of raw cellulose by treatment with oxygen and an alkaline buffer solution at elevated temperature and pressure, which comprises carrying out the process in an unflooded condition, that is, where contact between the raw cellulose and buffer solution is intermittent, both gaseous and liquid phases being present at all times. Optionally, cupric ion may be present as a catalyst.

Abstract: A process for wet air oxidation of liquid or solid combustible materials which are insoluble, immiscible and difficult to suspend in water which comprises injecting said materials directly into the wet air oxidation reactor, thereby producing a regular, safe and trouble-free reaction.

Abstract: A wet oxidation system comprising a reactor, means supplying liquor and air through preheaters to the reactor, means for cooling the oxidized products from the reactor to substantially less than 200.degree. F, or close to the temperature of the incoming air and liquor, and means for separating the liquid and gas phases at the lower temperature; means for injecting a controlled amount of water into the relatively dry and cool gas stream from the separation means, and means for heating the gas stream with the products from the reactor to substantially completely vaporize the water injected, or completely vaporize and superheat the water injected, and means for delivering the gas stream so generated to a device for recovering mechanical power.

Abstract: A process of treating non-biodegradable industrial wastes by wet oxidation, followed by biological oxidation of the liquid phase by aeration in the presence of biomass and powdered activated carbon, and wet oxidation of the spent carbon and excess biomass to regenerate the activated carbon.