Abstract: A method for reducing allergenicity of natural latex rubber. The natural latex rubber, prior to its vulcanization, is admixed with silica compounds dissolved an alkali solution to denature the antigenic protein thus reducing the total protein level. Alternatively, liquid sodium silicate is added directly to natural rubber latex to reduce antigenic protein value. Ideally, when fumed silica is used as the silica compound, it is characterized as having a density of approximately 2.2 g/cm2 and surface area of 255 m2/g.

Abstract: A device and method for determining mercury levels in a biological sample containing mercury. The biological sample is at least partially dissolved in an acidic solution to release at least a portion of the mercury contained therein. The partially dissolved biological sample is exposed to an anode and cathode under an electromotive force causing at least a portion of the mercury released from the biological sample to adhere to a surface of the cathode. The cathode being exposed to an alkaline metal salt to create a mercury-alkaline metal amalgam. This cathode is then electrically connected to a reference electrode whereby the extent of the amalgam is a measure of the level of mercury in the biological sample.

Abstract: A method of extracting hydrocarbon fuel from oil sand or shale. The oil sand or shale is admixed with a sensitizer and subjected to exposure to microwave energy. This acts to remove the hydrocarbon fuel from the oil sand or shale and can also crack the hydrocarbon, lower sulfur content as well as water content.

Abstract: A method of increasing the efficiency of a fuel cell having an anode electrode for receiving a reducing agent, cathode electrode for receiving an oxidizing agent, and a proton-conducting membrane separating the anode and cathode electrodes. The method includes exposing at least one of the reducing agent or oxidizing agent to a microwave generator for applying microwave energy thereto.