Abstract: Described is a system and method for detecting contaminants using a flexible Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) substrate. The contaminant is collected on a flexible SERS substrate and directly interrogated with a Raman Spectrometer to obtaining a SERS emission spectrum for the contaminant. The obtained spectrum can be compared to a library of SERS signatures to identify the contaminant.

Abstract: A cycling seat assembly provides a more comfortable riding experience for a person on a bicycle, tricycle or the like. The assembly includes a seat having a pair of seat sections each including a rod and a cushion positioned around the associated rod. At least one arm is attached to and extends between the rods. A mount is attached to the seat wherein the mount is configured for coupling the seat to a seat tube of a bicycle.

Abstract: A gas avalanche neutron detector (GAND) filled with counting gas for detecting thermal neutrons or neutron radiation without the use of a conventional proportional counter is provided. The GAND may include a layer of thermalization material, a cathode having a face with a layer of material, exhibiting neutron capture followed by charged particle emission such as Boron-10, a microstructure amplifier, and an anode. Thermal neutrons may enter the detector and interact with the material on the face of the cathode producing alpha particles. The alpha particles may ionize the counting gas inside the detector and produce ionization electrons. The cathode, microstructure amplifier and anode may have voltages applied that create electric fields that cause the ionization electrons to drift toward the microstructure amplifier. The microstructure then accelerates the electrons causing an avalanche effect within the gas and provides an amplification of the signal dramatically increasing neutron detection sensitivity.

Abstract: A reinforcing unit for aerated concrete components. At least two spaced apart welded reinforcing mats are made up of longitudinally extending main bars and transversely extending crossbars, the crossbars being welded at their intersections with the main bars. The two mats are spaced apart from each other by connector bars which are bent into a C-shape from weldable steel bars, each connector bar having a pair of opposed legs and a spacer portion connecting those legs. The connector bars have openings to allow the passage of lifting rods. A device for forming the connector bars includes a straightening device, a device for adding small flags with holes therethrough, a bending device and a cutting device for cutting the bent connector bars and then a welding device for welding the connector bars to the mats.