Abstract: A filtering medium is economically produced by treating a highly humified peat source with an alkaline solution followed by mixing with a quaternary amine compound until the humic and fulvic acids have precipitated. A filter cake is formed from the residue by various means including acid oxidation, heating with or without acid reagent or by semi-coking to produce a final dried product having excellent filtering properties for hydrophobic compounds, as well as ion-exchange capacities for both anions and cations from aqueous solution.

Abstract: A filtering medium is economically produced by treating a highly humified peat source with an alkaline solution followed by mixing with a quaternary amine compound until the humic and fulvic acids have precipitated. A filter cake is formed from the residue by various means including acid oxidation, heating with or without acid reagent or by semi-coking to produce a final dried poduct having excellent filtering properties for hydrophobic compounds, as well as ion-exchange capacities for both anions and cations from aqueous solution.

Abstract: Traction sling apparatus is adapted for applying a tensile force on a person's neck and spine for infield use. The traction sling includes a chin strap and a neck strap loosely attached together in spaced-apart relation to each other, one end of each strap being detachable from the corresponding end of the other strap to partially disassemble the apparatus facilitating positioning of the sling under the person's head. A leader device is provided for temporary attachment to the detached end of one of the straps for pulling the sling into position under the person's head. The invention also includes an anchor device in the form of a frame detachably connected to the back of a spine board on which the person is laid, and it includes adjustable means for applying tension to the traction sling and to the person's neck and spine.