Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and utility device for detecting explosives selected from inorganic nitrates like ammonium nitrate (AN), chlorates, nitramines like cyclo trimethylene trinitramine (RDX), Her Majesty's Explosive (HMX), tetryl (CE), nitrate esters like pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN), nitro compounds like trinitrotoluene (TNT) plastic explosives like Semtex, TATB and combinations thereof. It also relates to two variants of explosive detection kit viz. a readily portable miniaturized disposable drop type variant and a dispersible spray type variant.

Abstract: An improved process for the removal of malodorous compounds, especially sulfur-containing compounds, for example H.sub.2 S and methyl mercaptan, from gas streams containing oxygen in which a bed of activated carbon treated with NaOH and moisture is used to remove said compounds. The treatment, which may also be combined with regeneration of the activated carbon, is effected, typically, by applying to the carbon one bed volume of dilute (4-6%) NaOH solution, draining and drying with 50- 100% R.H. air.

Abstract: An improved method of manufacturing activated carbon from dried, bituminous, subbituminous, and lignite coal by sizing and simultaneously drying and oxidizing, and thereafter activating the sized coal, wherein the improvement comprises acid washing the coal prior to carrying out the said manufacturing method.