Abstract: A self-powered self-contained electrolysis device, for placement into a reservoir of a contaminated electrolytic solution, such as water, containing halide ion, such as chloride ion, to electrolyze the water, thereby disinfecting or sterilizing the contaminated reservoir of water. Contaminated reservoirs of water can be water containers filled with river water and other outdoor sources, or can be contaminated municipal water held in kitchen containers, cooling systems, water tanks, cisterns, etc. The self-contained body allows the electrolysis device to float on or remain self-contained in the reservoir water. Preferred devices are small and portable, and comprise reliably productive electrolysis cells that are powered by batteries. A means for propulsion of the device can also be provided, and is preferably a pump that pumps the water through the electrolysis cell.

Abstract: An analyzer (A) includes a current measurer (42) for measuring the current flowing between paired electrodes (22a), (22b) when a sample is introduced to the reagent layer (23) of a sensor (2) and voltage is applied across the electrodes, while also including a processor (3) for analyzing the sample based on the current after a predetermined reference time point. The analyzer (A) further includes a fail determiner (44) which monitors the change of the current before and after the reference time point and determines that the sensor (2) is improper when the current change does not correspond to a predetermined current change.

Abstract: A sensor, and method of using the sensor, for determining changes in the chemical or electrolytic properties of non-electrolyte, or weakly electrolytic fluids comprising an anode, cathode and reference electrode covered by a solid electrolyte film. Changes in these properties are indicative of degradation of the fluid or dissolution therein of conductive materials from the surfaces in contact with that fluid.

Abstract: A method for detecting the presence or absence of, or for determining the concentration of, NADH or NADPH in a sample is provided, wherein the method comprises contacting a reductase and a redox active agent to said sample; and measuring the quantity of reduced redox active agent produced by the reductase, by electrochemical means. The method may be used to quantify the amount or activity of a redox enzyme or its substrate, wherein the redox enzyme uses NAD+, NADP+, NADPH or NADP as a cofactor.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an electrode assembly useful for analyzing metal electroplating solutions. Such electrode assembly comprises a measuring electrode, preferably a rotating disc electrode or a microelectrode, and at least one of an in situ cleaning mechanism, a nucleation and metal growth optimization mechanism, and a voltage limiting mechanism. The present invention also relates to usage of such electrode assembly for in situ cleaning of the measuring electrode, nucleation and metal growth optimization, or voltage limitation.

Abstract: A removable coin storage apparatus is used in a coin processing device, and includes a removable bin for storing and transporting coins. The removable bin has a stopped position and a moving position. The coin storage apparatus further includes a brake device that is pivotally coupled to the removable bin for preventing movement of the removable bin in the stopped position. The brake device has a manually moveable element that is movable between a first position and a second position, each one of the first position and the second position corresponding to one of the stopped position and the moving position of the removable bin. The brake device also has a contact surface for exerting a frictional force on a floor surface in the stopped position of the removable bin.

Abstract: A club-carrying apparatus includes a bag and a frame. The frame includes an annular element, a sternum-like element and at least one rib-like element. The annular element is attached to an upper portion of the bag. The sternum-like element extends from the annular element and includes a bone and a skin covering the bone. The rib-like element intersects the sternum-like element and includes a bone and a skin covering the bone. Each of two partitions includes a lower portion attached to the bag and an upper portion attached to the bone of the sternum-like element. Another partition includes a lower portion attached to the bag and an upper portion attached to the bone of the rib-like element.

Abstract: A snap buckle structure of a hangtag for tools includes a base, and a snap engagement body wherein the base has an indented tool cavity with an opening end defining the front side thereof, and an engaging member protruding at both front lateral sides of the lower section thereof respectively. The snap engagement body is transversely guided to the engaging member of the base with an upper, middle, and lower engaging fingers extending at both lateral sides thereof located sequentially into recesses of the engaging member, and pushed downwards till an inverted hook of the middle engaging finger thereof held onto a hooked end of a retaining rib of the engaging member thereof for secure location so that the snap engagement body thereof will not be blocked by a tool adapted at the indented tool cavity thereof, facilitating an easier and faster assembly thereof.

Abstract: A packaging device for a trocar assembly includes a housing member having a first retaining member adapted for selective retention of a trocar assembly component relative to the housing member along a component longitudinal axis. The housing member further includes a shield member remote from the first retaining member. The shield member lies in a shield longitudinal axis which is substantially perpendicular to the component longitudinal axis. The housing member is substantially open adjacent the shield member along the component longitudinal axis.

Abstract: An acupuncture needle container and dispenser to store and dispense a plurality of sterile acupuncture needles having a transparent top cover piece and an opaque colored bottom piece with a distal end, a proximal end and a middle portion. The transparent top cover piece fits over the opaque colored bottom piece and forms a semi-oval needle reservoir at the distal end, a cylindrical inserter at the proximal end and a channel formed between the semi-oval needle reservoir and the cylindrical inserter to allow for an individual channeled movement of the plurality of acupuncture needles from the semi-oval needle reservoir through the formed channel and into the cylindrical inserter.

Abstract: An acupuncture needle container and dispenser to store and dispense a plurality of sterile acupuncture needles having a transparent top cover piece and an opaque colored bottom piece with a distal end, a proximal end and a middle portion. The transparent top cover piece fits over the opaque colored bottom piece and forms a semi-oval needle reservoir at the distal end, a cylindrical inserter at the proximal end and a channel formed between the semi-oval needle reservoir and the cylindrical inserter to allow for individual channeled movement of the plurality of acupuncture needles from the semi-oval needle reservoir through the formed channel and into the cylindrical inserter. The cylindrical inserter includes an insertion tube that may be magnetized to facilitate receiving and holding a single acupuncture needle in place until removed by a plunger from the dispenser.

Abstract: A storage bin is integrated into a ladder, providing secure storage for tools or other items used when working on a ladder. The storage bin is attached to the top step of the ladder. On the upper surface of the ladder is a storage bin lid which opens to reveal the contents of the storage bin. The storage bin lid is securely held in the closed position by a latching mechanism. The storage bin may also include pockets or storage trays for tools or fasteners.

Abstract: A package for a drug-device combination product includes an outer package including a first gas impermeable sheet and a second gas impermeable sheet hermetically sealed there to on three sides. A gas permeable header is attached to an unsealed side of the first sheet and sealed to the second sheet on two sides. The first and second gas impermeable sheets and the header form an interior and an opening communicating with the interior. A gas permeable inner package is disposed within the outer package. A product is sealed within the inner package. The inner package is placed within the outer package and a top end of the header is sealed to the second sheet. The outer package is then sealed by sealing the first gas impermeable sheet to the second gas impermeable sheet at a seal point below the point where the header attaches to the first sheet.

Abstract: A hermetic storage system for storing wipes is provided. The hermetic storage system may include a flexible container, a first member, a second member, and a third member configured for holding the wipes. The flexible container is disposed between the first member and the second member. The third member is releasably coupled to the second member and covers an aperture defined by the second member. The hermetic storage system is configured to provide a hermetic seal when the third member is releasably engaged with the second member.

Abstract: A nestable crate for bottles which includes a floor member and first and second pairs of opposed sidewalls integrally formed with the floor member. Each sidewall includes a side band member which is defined by a centrally disposed upper edge and lower edge. The lower edge is spaced above the floor member by a predetermined distance to define a sidewall nesting area therebelow. The upper and lower edges each contoured downwardly to form a corner band portion having a corner upper edge and corner lower edge, wherein each nesting area matingly receives a corresponding side band member of a crate nested subjacent thereto.

Abstract: Box-type pot made of fired clay and similar materials for optimized stacking, to be use in particular for growing ornamental plants. Said pot comprises a bottom and side walls containing loam, the distinctive feature of which is that it comprises a base that solves the storage space problem found in known pots inasmuch as it enables storage facilities, containers and the loading spaces of vehicles used for shipping to be used as efficiently as possible.

Abstract: An elongated sealed container with a self-contained opening means fully enclosed within the container to release the liquid sealed within the container is disclosed. The enclosed opening means may be operated by either squeezing or bending the elongated sealed container at or near the enclosed opening means to release the liquid sealed within the elongated sealed container for application. There are no loose parts that may be lost and all components are completely sealed within the container.

Abstract: An elongated sealed container with a self-contained opening means fully enclosed within the container to release the liquid sealed within the container is disclosed. The retained enclosed opening means may be operated by either squeezing or bending the elongated sealed container at or near the retained enclosed opening means to release the liquid sealed within the elongated sealed container for application. There are no loose parts that may be lost and all components are completely sealed within the container.

Abstract: A container is formed in a blank having two body halves interconnected by a hinge. The container body is at least partially clear to allow inspection of an article held in the interior and an optional insert member is sized to nest within one of the body halves. The container optionally includes an integrally formed carrying handle. Empty containers are nested to minimize shipping space. Each container optionally includes stack-stabilizing structure so that plural containers may be stacked into stable stacks, and any selected container may be easily removed from the stack. The inventive container protects articles held therein during shipping and storage, and displays the articles both before and after sale.

Abstract: A foldable protective jacket includes a base plate having an inner side for placing an electronic device, a plurality of side plates each pivoted around a side of the base plate to turn toward the inner side of the base plate, a first fastening member mounted on one side plate, and a second fastening member mounted on another side plate and detachably combined with the first fastening member. Thus, the expanded protective jacket functions as a multifunctional working platform that functions to support and operate the mouse, to store an article and to indicate the related function of the electronic device, thereby enhancing the versatility of the foldable protective jacket.

Abstract: A hair roots coloring kit includes a plurality of kit components carried in a drawstring bag for mixing and applying standard hair coloring materials to the uncolored outgrown roots of a user's hair. One or more measuring devices such as a measuring cup, a syringe, or an eyedropper are used for measuring the hair coloring materials to produce a matching color to previously colored hair shafts of the hair. A reusable mixing bowl or a plurality of disposable mixing bowls hold the measured hair coloring materials. A reusable stirring stick or a plurality of disposable stirring sticks are provided for mixing together the measured hair coloring materials in the mixing bowl. An applicator brush is used for applying the mixed matching color of hair coloring composition to the uncolored hair roots. A pair of protective gloves are provided to protect the user's hands during application of the hair coloring composition to the hair roots. A cleaning brush is used to aid in cleaning the kit components following use.

Abstract: An adjustable shipper display system includes a master shell having side walls with mounting positions. A plurality of tray-like shelves are supported at each end at the mounting positions. Fillers are insertable along the shelves to divide the shelves into compartment spaces and to provide dunnage where required. With minimum modification the shipper can be prepared for displaying articles to the consumer without requiring removal or other adjustment of the articles within the shipper.

Abstract: The amount of NOx formed during regeneration of a cracking catalyst in the presence of a metallic carbon monoxide combustion catalyst is decreased by utilizing as the carbon monoxide combustion catalyst rhodium and/or iridium on an oxide support such as alumina.

Abstract: A membrane is used in combination with fractionation and hydrodesulfurization to reduce the sulfur content of hydrocarbon feeds, preferably sulfur-containing naphtha feeds. A membrane separation zone is employed to treat a fraction of effluent from a fractionation zone containing sulfur-containing non-aromatic hydrocarbons to produce a sulfur rich permeate and sulfur deficient retentate. The sulfur rich permeate and a second fraction of the fractionation zone, which contains sulfur-containing aromatic hydrocarbons, are further treated in a hydrodesulfurization zone. The stream from the hydrodesulfurization zone and the sulfur deficient retentate from the membrane separation zone are then processed as low sulfur hydrocarbon streams, especially those streams being processed in the manufacture of gasoline when the initial hydrocarbon stream is naphtha from a fluidized catalytic cracking unit.

Abstract: A calcium-containing hydrocarbonaceous material is treated with an aqueous mixture, comprising acetate ion and an alkaline material and having a pH in the range of 3.0 to 5.0, in order to extract at least a portion of the calcium from the hydrocarbonaceous material into the aqueous phase. Acetic acid is a suitable source of acetate ion. Ammonium hydroxide, sodium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide are example alkaline materials.

Abstract: An object of the invention is to provide a method and an apparatus for recycling plastics which is improved with respect to operation efficiency, operation environment, lowering degradation of plastics, recycling cost and environment load including saving energy. The recycling is made as follows: coarse-crushing used-up plastic products, separating plastic materials from other foreign matters by air blow separation, fine-crushing the separated plastics, washing the fine-crushed plastics by the process using a circulation flow including a spiral flow in which interaction between crushed plastics helps themselves clean without washing agents, dewatering the washed plastics, drying them, removing metallic matters by using metal detector, then feeding them directly without pelletizing to an injection molding machine of which nozzle part is equipped with filter and flow-switching mechanism for cleaning the filter by backwash reverse filtration.

Abstract: The present invention provides various processes for selectively removing undesirably sized catalyst particles from a reaction system. In one embodiment, a plurality of catalyst particles, having a first median particle diameter, is withdrawn from the reaction system and is directed to a separation unit such as a counter flow cyclone separator. In the separation unit, the particles are separated into a small catalyst stream and a large catalyst stream, the small catalyst stream having a second median particle diameter less than the first median particle diameter, and the large catalyst stream having a third median particle diameter greater than the first median particle diameter. At least a portion of the small or large catalyst stream is then directed back to the reaction system in order to maintain a desirable particle size distribution therein.

Abstract: A screen assembly for releasable mounting to a mounting structure of a vibratory separator, the mounting structure having a body over which a screen assembly is positionable, part of fluid to be treated by the vibratory separator flowable through the body, at least one upwardly projecting member projecting upwardly from the body, said at least one upwardly projecting member sized and configured so it is receivable in a corresponding C-shaped channel part in the screen assembly, the screen assembly having a support, screening material on the support, at least one C-shaped channel part in the support, said at least one C-shaped channel part sized, configured, and located for receiving said at least one upwardly projecting member of the body of the mounting structure.

Abstract: Used articles of different types are sorted into individual types through a sorting line, and are feed to disassembling lines that are provided for the respective article types. The sorting line is provided with a type discriminating section and a sorting section. In the sorting section, a number of sorting mechanisms are provided for the respective article types, and are arranged sequentially along a conveying direction of the articles. The individual sorting mechanism sorts out articles of a designated type on the basis of discrimination data from the type discriminating section. A controller counts the number of discriminated articles separately from type to type, and controls the sorting mechanisms depending upon the count of each type, to feed the sorted articles either to a corresponding one of the disassembling lines through a respective supply line, or to a buffer section.

Abstract: Method according to which deliveries (3), which have been sorted with the aid of a sorting installation (1), are transferred from end locations (2) into delivery containers (5). Said installation comprises intermediate storage compartments (4) in the end locations (2) for a respective delivery container (5), which receives the deliveries (3) of the respective end location (2). An element confirming the presence of a delivery container (5) is provided for each intermediate storage compartment (4). After the removal of a full delivery container (5) from the respective intermediate storage compartment (4), an empty delivery container (5) is introduced into said compartment (4) and a signal triggered by the confirmation element causes the identification reference (9) of the delivery container (5), which has previously been read by a read device (12), to be assigned to the target address or the target address zone, which has been assigned to this end location (2) by the current sorting plan, and to be stored.

Abstract: An apparatus for sorting mail includes at least one tier of mail receiving receptacles (12) arranged in an arcuate configuration. The preferred embodiment utilizes an arm (16) supported by a support (14) for pivotal movement about a substantially vertical pivot axis (22). The arm sweeps in an arc in close proximity with and conforming to the arcuate configuration of the tier of mail receiving receptacles (12). A conveyor (24) conveys individual pieces of mail (26) sequentially along the arm. A controller (36) is provided which is adapted to monitor the positioning of the arm (16) relative to the tier of mail receiving receptacles (12), selectively activate a drive motor (30) to alter the positioning of the arm (16), and selectively activate the conveyor (24) to convey individual pieces of mail (26) sequentially along the conveyor to the second end of the arm and into selected mail receiving receptacles. The apparatus provides a significant sorting capacity within a relatively compact space.

Abstract: A mail sorting and sequencing system having a number of DPP units cooperating with one another to sort and sequence mail items of three different types of mail. Each DPP unit having: a conveyor system wherein a number of trucks travel along a path; at least three truck feed units communicating with the conveyor system and receiving mail items of a respective type of mail; at least one accumulating device cooperating with the conveyor system to receive mail items released individually by the trucks; and a buffer unit for housing groups of mail items from the accumulating device.

Abstract: A color sorting apparatus capable of displaying images of granules picked up by a CCD sensor on a panel and performing sensibility control of defective granules while observing the displayed images is provided. The color sorting apparatus comprises a contour processor for outputting contour binary data from the picked-up images and a contour threshold, a first defective determination circuit for outputting the defective part of the granule having a predetermined area or more of part exceeding a first threshold in the form of first defective pixel binary data, and a second defective determination circuit for outputting the defective part of the granule having a part exceeding a second threshold being greater than the first threshold in the form of second defective pixel binary data. The first defective pixel binary data are displayed on a monitor for thin coloration. The second defective pixel binary data are displayed on a monitor for partial coloration.

Abstract: An apparatus for detecting a cracked or broken case has a frame, a conveyor means mounted on the frame, and a ram affixed to the frame for applying a force onto a surface of a wall of the case. A sensor is cooperative with the ram for detecting when the surface of the wall of the case has deflected beyond a desired amount. An ejector is affixed to the frame for removing the case from the conveyor when the sensor has detected that the wall of the case has deflected beyond the desired amount.

Abstract: In a treatment liquid supply system that supplies treatment liquid used for coating industrial objects for film formation including a semiconductor substrate, a display substrate, a glass and the like, a nozzle connected to a treatment liquid tank vacuum-sucks and injects the treatment liquid from the treatment liquid tank due to a negative pressure occurring in the nozzle, wherein supply control of a small flow amount of the treatment liquid to the nozzle can be performed due to a difference pressure between pressure in the treatment liquid tank and the negative pressure occurring in the nozzle.

Abstract: A fuel filter sealing apparatus to improve a connector for connecting a fuel input pipe and a fuel return pipe to a fuel filter in order to prevent fuel leakage during a preliminary testing stage of an engine and backflow of fuel during engine operation. An oil chamber is provided between a first piston and a second piston accommodated at an inner circumferential side of a fuel filter side connecting part. Fuel flow holes are radially formed at an external side of the oil chamber and inlets thereof are opened and closed by the first piston to allow the fuel passing through outlets thereof to flow to the fuel filter. A barrier valve is provided at one side with a valve surface for opening and closing fuel through holes disposed between the fuel filter and the connector.

Abstract: A hydration apparatus for use with a hydration tank. The hydration apparatus disperses incoming gel into existing gel in the hydration tank to increase the hydration time of the incoming gel. The hydration apparatus includes flow conduits communicated with gel inlets in the hydration tank. The flow conduits redirect the flow of the incoming gel. The flow conduits preferably redirect the flow from a generally horizontal direction to generally vertically upwardly direction. The hydration apparatus has a plurality of deflectors positioned in the hydration tank. Flow exiting an end of the flow conduits is deflected by the deflectors and dispersed into existing gel in the hydration tank. The flow conduits are preferably perforated flow conduits so that a portion of incoming gel passes through openings in the sides of the flow conduits while a portion of the incoming gel passes through an exit of the flow conduits.

Abstract: This invention of a particle separator using laser optical pressure provides a device and method for the optical separation of microscopic particles (0.01-30 ?m diameter). Separation is accomplished through a balance of forces: light interaction (momentum transfer) with the particles of interest generating optical pressure and the viscous drag force of an opposing fluid flow. Particles of larger effective size or higher refractive index will experience a greater optical force and may thus be separated from particles with a smaller size or refractive index. Application of this new laser optical separator to biological particles including bacteria and viruses now provides a new avenue for biomedical sample evaluation. Separating based upon the intrinsic properties of the particle allows apriori identification of previously unknown or unexpected particle types. The light-induced separation of chemically different species opens important new avenues for biomedical/biochemical separation.

Abstract: The present invention is a filter insert inside a storm water inlet with a grate cover and including an inlet with a combination of curb inlet and grate, and holds the insert within the inlet by means of a support inserted within a sleeve that rests directly upon the basin covers' support.

Abstract: Systems and methods to filter water. A filtration device for a floodable compartment having a water inlet and a water outlet can include a removable filter for being positioned at or near the water outlet of the compartment, a strainer having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is configured to at least partially surround the filter near the water outlet, and wherein the second end is configured to contact the compartment at least partially around the filter at a point in the compartment between the water inlet and the water outlet. The filtration device can be implemented as a water filtration system for a pool or spa, where the water inlet can be from the pool or spa, and the water outlet can be to a pump.

Abstract: A filter module provided with a housing (3) having an inlet (6) for a liquid to be filtered and an outlet (10) for filtered liquid, with a first filter element (7-9, 12) accommodated in the housing (3), in the form of a porous mass provided with a central through-opening, to which the inlet (6) connects, and with a second filter element (1) accommodated in the housing (3) in the form of a number of lengths of tube-shaped filtering membrane (2), which together define a cylinder shape, which cylinder shape, at at least one extremity, between the open-ended filter membranes (2), is filled up with a sealing material, to which extremity the outlet (10) connects. The inlet (6) connects to the central through-opening of the first filter element (7-9, 12), which is surrounded by the second filter element (1), which has the form of a tubular casing obtained by winding from tube-shaped filtering membrane (2).

Abstract: A method is provided for the continuous production of treated waters using a staged, tapered array membrane plant by a process of process-logic-controlled (PLC) stage or stage increment isolation and removal from service, washing and return-to-service concurrent with the continued operation of all other stages and/or stage increments of the plant. Specifically, there are plant mounted input/output sensors that supply the PLC with the data required to identify the location and degree of “fouling” of the individual stages or stage increments of a tapered array membrane water treatment plant, where fouling is defined as a loss of water flow through a membrane surface at a given pressure when compared to a water flow standard for the surface.

Abstract: A valve assembly is disclosed for use in conjunction with a replaceable filter cartridge system. The valve assembly includes a head member having an interior valve chamber defining a central axis, and inlet and outlet passages extending parallel to and communicating with the interior valve chamber. The valve assembly further includes a valve member having an inlet path and an outlet path, adapted for rotation within the interior valve chamber of the head member between a filter position wherein the inlet path of the valve member is in communication with the inlet passage of the head member and a bypass position wherein the inlet path of the valve member is out of communication with the inlet passage of the head member. The valve assembly further includes a seal member seated in an upper surface of the valve member and positioned to seal against an opposing surface of the interior valve chamber.

Abstract: A spillage-control boot apparatus for use during removal of a spin-on fluid filter from an engine block or other substrate. The boot apparatus includes a boot with a substantially cylindrical boot body, including a flared bell portion for placement surrounding a filter, and a constricted portion integrally attached to and extending from the flared bell portion, for placement closely surrounding a portion of the filter. The flared bell portion of the boot body is adapted to form an annular pocket therein when the boot is placed surrounding a cylindrical filter. The apparatus also includes an absorbent member, for placement in the flared bell portion of the boot body, for absorbing spillage from the filter base when the filter is removed from the substrate.

Abstract: A zeolite membrane support for supporting a zeolite membrane includes a metal substrate having a metal oxide layer at its surface. Preferably, the metal oxide layer has a thickness in the range of 1 nm to 10 ?m and comprises chromia, silica, or alumina. Preferably, the metal substrate is porous, having a mean pore size in the range of 10 nm to 50 ?m, and comprises an iron-based metal. A zeolite composite membrane includes the zeolite membrane support and a zeolite membrane which includes an external zeolite layer lying over the surface at and/or an internal zeolite layer lying in the pores at the metal oxide layer side of the zeolite membrane support. The zeolite membrane preferably has a composition satisfying the relationship SiO2/Al2O3?10.

Abstract: A process for manufacturing a catalyst coated membrane is provided by applying at least one electrocatalyst coating composition to an element comprising a polymer membrane having a first and a second surface, and a first dimensionally stable temporary substrate, wherein the coating composition is applied to at least portions of the first surface of the polymer membrane; drying the electrocatalyst coating composition to form at least one first electrode on the polymer membrane of the element; applying a second dimensionally stable temporary substrate to the at least one first electrode; removing the first dimensionally stable temporary substrate from the polymer membrane; applying at least one electrocatalyst coating composition to at least a portion of the second surface of the polymer membrane: and drying the electrocatalyst coating composition on the polymer membrane to form a sandwich comprising the at least one second electrode, the polymer membrane, the at least one first electrode and the second dimensi

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for producing flexible and porous adsorbents based on oxidic and/or non-oxidic ceramic material containing carbon. The inventive method is characterized by the following steps: (a) producing a flat base matrix whose constituents are held together essentially by hydrogen bridge bonds, on a machine suited for producing paper; (b) applying and/or impregnating the surface of the base matrix, on one or both sides, with polymeric addition agents; (c) treating the base matrix under pyrolysis conditions at an increased temperature in an atmosphere containing essentially no oxygen. The invention also relates to membranes that can be produced according to the aforementioned method, to flexible material that can be produced by using these membranes, and to their use for separating and purifying fluids.

Abstract: A method for treatment of liquid waste is disclosed that includes the steps of (a) submitting the liquid waste to a pretreatment and (b) submitting the pretreated liquid waste to the action of fungi or active agents thereof. In particular, the described process is useful for the effective decoloration and detoxification of dye-containing liquid wastes using white rot fungi or active agents thereof.

Abstract: A method and system for treating at least bioorganic, organic, wastewater, and sewage sludge using recycle. The method of producing a treated sludge product comprises the following steps: (a) forming a sludge mixture by mixing untreated sludge with at least one alkaline material in an amount sufficient to raise pH of the sludge mixture to a level of at least about 12 and to increase percent solids in the sludge mixture to at least about 40% by weight; (b) forming a dried sludge mixture by drying the sludge mixture from step (a) in a direct or indirect dryer thereby increasing the percent solids thereof to at least about 50% by weight; (c) recycling a portion of the dried sludge mixture from step (b) to step (a); and (d) pasteurizing the dried sludge mixture from step (b) at a temperature at or above about 52° C. to form a treated sludge product. Exemplary applications for the treated sludge product include an agricultural liming agent, a soil conditioner, a fertilizer, a topsoil blend ingredient, and a fuel.

Abstract: A method for bulk separation of single-walled tubular fullerenes (100) based on helicity is provided wherein a solution or suspension of the single-walled tubular fullerenes (100) is flowed onto a crystalline or highly oriented substrate (30). The single-walled tubular fullerenes (100) that flow onto the substrate (30) have a respective longitudinal axis that is aligned with the flow direction (105). The direction of flow (105) is oriented at a predetermined angle with respect to a lattice axis (24) of the substrate (30) for energetically favoring adsorption of a respective plurality of single-walled fullerenes (100) having a tubular contour and a selected helicity. Subsequently, the adsorbed single-walled tubular fullerenes (100) of the selected chirality are removed from the substrate (30).