Abstract: A sponge used as a cleaning article that employs passive means to deter the growth of microorganisms within the sponge and reduces the possibility of cross-contamination. The sponge is capable of being placed or stowed on a surface in a vertical orientation such that its outer surfaces will be maximally exposed to air, thereby increasing the rate at which moisture can evaporate from the sponge, and therefore, making it less susceptible and more inhospitable to microbial growth. To achieve a practical and reliable degree of stability, a sticky elastomeric gel is incorporated onto the sponge's bottom surface, possessing sufficient adhesive strength to securely maintain the sponge in an upright position, yet permitting the sponge to be easily removed from the surface, while at the same time providing a prophylactic barrier between the sponge and the surface, further reducing the possibility of cross-contamination.

Abstract: A sponge used as a cleaning article that employs passive means to deter the growth of microorganisms within the sponge and reduces the possibility of cross-contamination. The sponge is capable of being placed or stowed on a surface in a vertical orientation such that its outer surfaces will be maximally exposed to air, thereby increasing the rate at which moisture can evaporate from the sponge, and therefore, making it less susceptible and more inhospitable to microbial growth. To achieve a practical and reliable degree of stability, a sticky elastomeric gel is incorporated onto the sponge's bottom surface, possessing sufficient adhesive strength to securely maintain the sponge in an upright position, yet permitting the sponge to be easily removed from the surface, while at the same time providing a prophylactic barrier between the sponge and the surface, further reducing the possibility of cross-contamination.

Abstract: A liquid coating applicator employs a disposable and replaceable squeegee blade adapted to permit the simultaneous dispensing and spreading of controlled amounts of screen filler onto screen printing stencil surfaces. The squeegee blade is removably attached to the dispensing end of the applicator to immediately contact and spread the dispensed liquid. The applicator threadingly attaches to a reservoir of liquid screen filler having resiliently flexible walls and which is refillable.