Abstract: A method for performing a rapid, homogenous assays for monitoring the reactions of a binding target, by immobilizing a fluorescent-capable chelate complex that is derivatized so as to posses recognition binding ligands, labeling the complex with a labeled second chelator that is added to the assay thereby forming a fluorescent mixed chelate, and measuring the fluorescent mixed chelate, whereby the measurement of the label enable monitoring of the reaction of the binding target. A rapid assay for performing the above method including a first chelating molecule, a fluorescent-capable ion complexed with the first chelating molecule, a second chelating molecule for reacting with the fluorescent-capable ion complexed with the first chelating molecule, and a measuring device for measuring fluorescent resulting from the second is chelating molecule reacting with the fluorescent-capable ion complexed with the first chelating molecule.

Abstract: A system for laser-ignition of explosives or the like includes a laser system coupled to an optical fiber for conducting light energy to a window positioned at an end of the fiber remote from the laser system. An explosive charge is contained within an initiator housing on a side of the window remote from the adjacent fiber end. A dichroic film is positioned at the window surface adjacent to the explosive charge, and is constructed to reflect light energy within one wavelength range and transmit light energy within another wavelength range. The laser system is controlled for selectively transmitting light energy at the one wavelength range to test continuity of the laser-fiber-initiator light path as a function of reflections from the dichroic film, and at the other wavelength range to ignite the explosive charge. In one embodiment of the invention, the dichroic film takes the form of a transparent disc having the film deposited thereon.

Abstract: A condensate controller comprising an inverted bucket steam trap having a blow-thru tube for continuously discharging non-condensable gas, flash steam and perhaps a limited amount of live steam, at a controlled rate. The condensate controller has a chamber located below and isolated from the compartment in which the inverted bucket is located. The chamber receives the incoming condensate and vapor from the inlet pipe so that the condensate level in the inlet pipe can be lowered and so that pressure surges in the inlet pipe can be cushioned and absorbed. The blow-thru pipe has a concavo-convex deflector for improving the separation of liquid from the vapor that flows through the blow-thru conduit.