Abstract: A method is disclosed for producing photocatalytic coated ceramic granules. The method involves providing a coatable composition containing an inorganic binder and a variety of photocatalytic particles, such as TiO2, ZnO, Ti(OH)4, doped derivatives, or combinations thereof. These photocatalytic particles have a surface area per weight of no more than 15 m2/g. The coatable composition is then applied to uncoated base ceramic granules, resulting in intermediate coated granules. Finally, the intermediate coated granules are heated at a temperature of at least 700° C., leading to the formation of photocatalytic coated ceramic granules. These granules exhibit a Total Solar Reflectance (TSR) value of at least 0.7. This method offers an efficient and effective way to produce ceramic granules with enhanced photocatalytic properties.

Abstract: Vaporized silicon halide is mixed with a vaporized alkali metala in a reactor chamber in an exothermic reaction producing liquid silicon droplets and gaseous alkali metal halide, and then passed out of the reactor chamber through a nozzle in a supersonic jet. The supersonic jet is produced by utilizing vacuum means to maintain the exit chamber at a lower pressure than the reactor chamber. Separation of the silicon from the salt by-products is performed by shock wave impaction separation technique wherein the products of the complete reaction between the alkali metal and silicon halide are made to impinge upon an unrestricted, flat surface so that the direction of flow of the gas changes abruptly and a shock zone is created above the flat surface. The silicon droplets are carried by their large forward momentum through the shock zone onto the separating surface where they are deposited. The gaseous alkali metal halide flows across the surface and is thus separated from the silicon product.

Abstract: A grinding wheel is used to pulverize solid test samples and propel particles thereof into a flame for analysis by an instrument such as a mass spectrometer. The sample is attached to one end of a pivoted lever arm. The other end of the lever arm is connected to a solenoid. Activation of the solenoid brings the sample into contact with the rotating grinding wheel. The solid particles produced by the wheel are propelled into the flame through a slot in an intermediate draft shield. The sampling cone of a conventional mass spectrometer or similar instrument may be placed in the flame to analyze the nature of the test materials. The device may also be used to inject test particles into the air or gas feed stream ahead of the flame if desired.