Abstract: An apparatus and method for substantially eliminating diffusion and resin capacity as rate-limiting factors in mass transfer between phases in separation, chemical reaction, and biological culture processes by establishing turbulent flow of fluids within a continuous, moving belt of resilient, open-cell foam polymer. The belt is made to move alternately between bulk liquid and gas phases where mass transfer takes place by direct transport to the polymer surface as a consequence of compression and release of the belt.

Abstract: A combination vibrator, aerator, and liquid-injection device for in-situ treatment of sediments to facilitate the reduction, elimination or removal of substances by microbiological or chemical treatment. In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the aerator and liquid-injection elements are attached to an internal concrete vibrator which penetrates and agitates the sediments. Air released from the aerator supplies oxygen to microorganisms in the sediments for the aerobic biodegradation of target substances. Liquids released under pressure from the liquid injector introduce microorganisms, nutrients or other chemicals such as oxidizers and detergents for degradation or solubilization of target substances.

Abstract: The problem of fogged mirrors and wet human body parts in a bathroom after bathing is solved by a device that both selectively defogs the mirror and dries human body parts including the hair. One form of device includes a frame portion that supports the mirror while another form attaches to the mirror. Each form has a housing portion defining a pair of defogging passages and a drying passage in flow receiving relation to the defogging passages with the passages being supplied heated air from a common source. Manually operated valves control the flow through defogging manifolds and between the defogging passages and the drying passage through a drying opening. Controls are also provided to regulate the amount of heat, airflow and time of operation.