Abstract: A microbiological method of desulfurization (MDS) of hydrocarbon fuels such as coal, coal tar and petroleum uses an aqueous microbial biocatalytic agent which is not significantly reproducing but is still capable of oxidizing inorganic sulfur compounds and/or of selectively cleaving sulfur-carbon bonds in organic compounds, thereby removing sulfur with insignificant losses in fuel value. Microorganisms are selected according to the type of fuel sulfur present and the environment in which the desulfurizing process is to take place. One embodiment allows droplets of highly concentrated cell-water suspensions to pass from the top surface of the fuel through to the bottom, desulfurizing along the way and removing the sulfur products of the process as well. This MDS method can be used during hydrocarbon fuel production, storage, transport, and/or processing conditions, thereby also providing an added benefit in corrosion protection of the vessels used for these functions.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method for the disinfection and sterilization of material and surfaces contaminated with one or more members selected from the group consisting of bacteria and bacterial spores, comprising the steps of: (a) providing a biocidal fluid containing a mixture of effective amounts of a germinant and a germicide; and (b) contacting the material and surfaces contaminated with one or more members selected from the group consisting of bacteria and bacterial spores, with the biocidal fluid of step (a) for a time sufficient for disinfecting and sterilizing said material. The invention also provides a sterilizing composition suitable for killing and rendering spores lifeless comprising: (a) an effective amount of a germinating agent; (b) an effective amount of a germicide.