Abstract: New methods and apparatus are described for assessing the integrity of a separation module or filtration system. A principle embodiment concerns use of a transient pulse of challenge species to probe a spiral wound module. The resulting time-dependent concentration of challenge species in the permeate is detected, recorded, and compared to a reference. An apparatus is further claimed for detecting permeate conductivity at multiple points within the permeate collection tube of a spiral wound module. Also disclosed is a process whereby the permeate stream from a filtration system is concentration by a high recovery membrane apparatus prior to measurement of challenge species concentration.

Abstract: New methods and apparatus are described for assessing the integrity of a separation module or filtration system. A principle embodiment concerns use of a transient pulse of challenge species to probe a spiral wound module. The resulting time-dependent concentration of challenge species in the permeate is detected, recorded, and compared to a reference. An apparatus is further claimed for detecting permeate conductivity at multiple points within the permeate collection tube of a spiral wound module. Also disclosed is a process whereby the permeate stream from a filtration system is concentration by a high recovery membrane apparatus prior to measurement of challenge species concentration.

Abstract: New methods and apparatus are described for assessing the integrity of a separation module or filtration system. A principle embodiment concerns use of a transient pulse of challenge species to probe a spiral wound module. The resulting time-dependent concentration of challenge species in the permeate is detected, recorded, and compared to a reference. An apparatus is further claimed for detecting permeate conductivity at multiple points within the permeate collection tube of a spiral wound module. Also disclosed is a process whereby the permeate stream from a filtration system is concentration by a high recovery membrane apparatus prior to measurement of challenge species concentration.

Abstract: New methods and apparatus are described for assessing the integrity of a separation module or filtration system. A principle embodiment concerns use of a transient pulse of challenge species to probe a spiral wound module. The resulting time-dependent concentration of challenge species in the permeate is detected, recorded, and compared to a reference. An apparatus is further claimed for detecting permeate conductivity at multiple points within the permeate collection tube of a spiral wound module. Also disclosed is a process whereby the permeate stream from a filtration system is concentration by a high recovery membrane apparatus prior to measurement of challenge species concentration.

Abstract: A composition comprising aqueous fluid absorbent polymer particles which have been heat-treated at temperatures greater than 170° C. for more than 10 minutes, wherein the composition has been remoisturized, after the heat-treatment, with an aqueous additive solution, in the absence of an organic solvent or water-insoluble, non-swellable powder, and comprises 1 to 10 percent by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, water and wherein the composition is characterized by the ability to absorb at least 20 grams of a 0.9 weight percent aqueous saline solution under a pressure of 0.3 psi (21,000 dynes/cm2), that is, a 60 minute 0.3 psi (21,000 dynes/cm2) AUL greater than 20 grams/gram. A process for preparing such a composition.

Abstract: The subject invention provides water-swellable polymer compositions having reduced caking tendencies. Such polymer compositions can be produced by employing quaternary ammonium salts. In addition to having reduced caking tendencies such polymers have reduced dust and substantially maintain or increase the surface tension of an aqueous fluid in equilibrium with the polymer and air.