Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a device and system for eliminating and replacing batteries in any instruments with active electronics, preamp, and piezo pickups. The accessory device and systems have a combination of quarter-inch audio and nine-volt power cable and the methods thereof. Both mono and stereo versions of the apparatus and systems are presented herein. The device further has a mock batter that can power other instruments. Battery leakage can cause corrosion in the instrument. Therefore, the device protects the instrument from corrosive harm, and the electrical device reduces the cost associated with battery usage and the operator's business's overall cost.

Abstract: There is provided a method of dechucking from an electrostatic chuck a substrate held by one or more residual forces to the chuck, the method comprising the steps of: (a) reducing a residual chucking force due to the electrostatic chuck polarisation; (b) contracting the chuck with the substrate attached thereto with a plasma for a time sufficient substantially to remove any residual charge from the surface of the substrate and the chuck; and (c) subsequently to, or simultaneously with, step (b) removing the substrate from the chuck. Also disclosed is an apparatus for performing the method.

Abstract: A polymer composition comprises an aliphatic polyester and at least one compound of the general formula (I): R.sup.1.sub.a (A)R.sup.2.sub.b, where A is a polyfunctional hydrocarbon group; R1 is an electron-donating group such as hydroxy, amino, thiol, or a derivative thereof; R2 is an electron-withdrawing group such as carboxylic acid, carboxylic amide and quaternary onium; and a and b are at least 1.