Abstract: A process for the preparation of a sputtering target which comprises sub-stoichiometric titanium dioxide, TiOx, where x is below 2, having an electrical resistivity of less than 0.5 ohm.cm, optionally together with niobium oxide, which process comprises plasma spraying titanium dioxide, TiO2, optionally together with niobium oxide, onto a target base in an atmosphere which is oxygen deficient and which does not contain oxygen-containing compounds, the target vase being coated with TiOx which is solidified by cooling under conditions which prevent the sub-stiochiometric titanium dioxide from combining with oxygen.

Abstract: The invention relates to a novel device for electrolytic disinfection of drinking water, service water and waste water using anodically generated disinfectants. The cathodic formation of hydrogen is prevented by using gas diffusion electrodes as the cathode. Atmospheric oxygen is reduced to hydroxyl ions and/or hydrogen peroxide at the gas diffusion electrodes. A permanent anode can be positioned between two gas diffusion electrodes. The latter then function alternately as a cathode or a second anode. This polarity change enables the removal of the deposits containing metal ions that form during the cathodic reaction from the gas diffusion electrodes. The substances with the disinfecting effect are produced through the use of different electrode materials for the anode and the diffusion electrode either at both anodes or at the anode and cathode.

Abstract: An electrochemical cell having co-axial inner and outer electrodes separated by an ion-permeable tube that defines inner and outer passageways for liquid flow lengthwise of the electrodes. The ion-permeable tube has elastomeric caps attached at each end. The elastomeric caps have rims that engage the inner walls of the electrochemical cell to separate the inner and outer passageways and the electrochemical products derived at the inner and outer electrodes.

Abstract: In certain example embodiments of this invention, there is provided an ion source including an anode and a cathode. In certain example embodiments, a multi-piece outer cathode is provided. The multi-piece outer cathode allows precision adjustments to be made, thereby permitting adjustment of the magnetic gap between the inner and outer cathodes. This allows improved performance to be realized, and/or prolonged operating life of certain components. This may also permit multiple types of gap adjustment to be performed with different sized outer cathode end pieces. In certain example embodiments, cathode fabrication costs may also be reduced.

Abstract: The invention relates to a container, in particular for electroplating baths, having a removal opening, characterized in that the container has a flexible jacket on which the removal opening is provided, and a metering valve is situated at the removal opening.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a process for the production of a gas diffusion electrode, in particular for the electrolysis of an aqueous solution of hydrogen chloride, in a first step a) a dispersion of a catalyst containing a noble metal and of a proton-conducting ionomer in an organic solvent being sprayed onto an electrically conductive support optionally provided with a coating material containing an acetylene black/polytetrafluoroethylene mixture and, in a second step b), the organic solvent being removed.

Abstract: This disclosure provides a joining area and method between copper and stainless steel or titanium, as well as the permanent cathode obtained, where said joining area is made of a first zone of a copper-nickel (Cu—Ni) alloy, an intermediate zone with a mostly nickel alloy or pure nickel and a second zone made of a stainless steel-nickel alloy, which is the result of the participating materials being cast in an arc welding process, for example TIG, MIG or manual arc using electrodes of nickel as welding contributor between said materials and their space arrangement, that is to say, leaving a separation between the materials when performing the welding process, thus ensuring as follows: a) greater tensile strength, b) a substantial improvement of corrosion resistance of the joint welding, and c) improvement of conductibility, which can be improved still further by modifying the straight design of the conducting bar by providing it with the “horn”-type shape.

Abstract: The invention describes an electrochemical cell for the electrolysis of an aqueous solution of hydrogen chloride, comprising at least an anode half-cell with an anode, a cathode half-cell with a gas diffusion electrode as cathode and an ion exchange membrane arranged between the anode half-cell and the cathode half-cell, the membrane consisting of at least a perfluorosulfonic acid polymer, wherein the gas diffusion electrode and the ion exchange membrane are adjacent to each other, characterised in that the gas diffusion electrode and the ion exchange membrane, under a pressure of 250 g/cm2 and at a temperature of 60° C., have a contact area of at least 50%, with respect to the geometric area.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to devices for measuring an analyte in a host. More particularly, the present invention relates to devices for measurement of glucose in a host that incorporate a cellulosic-based resistance domain.

Abstract: An electrochemical sensor with at least one ionic liquid (4) as the electrolyte, contains at least one electrode (1), whose active surface is substantially larger than the geometric area covered by said electrode (1). The electrolyte and at least one of the electrodes (1, 2, 3) are in direct contact with the ambient atmosphere.

Abstract: A gas sensor assembly comprising a trace oxygen sensor is disclosed. The sensor includes a sensor housing and a connecting portion attached to the sensor housing defining a passageway for introducing a gas stream to the sensor housing.

Abstract: Provided is a chemical sensor for detecting a gaseous chemical species including a sensing layer made of a crystalline metal oxide nanoparticle aggregate having an aspect ratio of not less than about 5, and a short side length of not more than about 2 nm, whereby it is possible to detect the chemical species even at a room temperature since electrical conductivity is varied depending on adsorption and desorption of the chemical species due to a large surface area of the crystalline metal oxide nanoparticle and an active adsorption site located at a surface thereof.

Abstract: In an improved amperometric gas sensor, the structure, composition, and electrode potential are adjusted so as to prevent or minimize any unwanted reactivity at the counter and/or reference electrode of any analyte or interfering component of the matrix that may cross over thereto. The sensor is preferably structured so that the product of the analyte reaction at a first working electrode can be reconverted to the original analyte at a counter electrode or at a second working electrode and then reacted again at the first working electrode, with such back-and-forth reactions repeating many times, so as to yield an amplification of the analyte signal.

Abstract: In an ionic-activity sensor, an osmotic pump drives a reference-cell electrolyte to flow through an interface with the solution to be measured. This minimizes contamination of the reference cell by that solution. The driving force results from expansion of an electrolytic-agent reservoir into which solvent from a solvent reservoir diffuses through a semi-permeable membrane. The electrolytic-agent reservoir contains an electrolytic-agent solution in which a quantity of undissolved is disposed to keep the electrolytic-agent solution saturated as solvent diffuses into it.

Abstract: A device and a process for manipulation of a liquid, the ability of a liquid to flow from a first channel section in a second channel section being temporarily stopped by means of a capillary stop before it flows from the first channel section into the second channel section. Control which is accurate in time is easily enabled by the two channel sections being moved relative to one another for bridging or cancelling the capillary stop, especially being brought into contact.

Abstract: The invention provides an electrophoretic deposition method of CNTs for a field emission device. It uses a triode structure having gates and a proper arrangement of applied voltages to improve the selectivity of the conventional EPD method. The electric field around the gates repels the charged or polarized nanostructure suspension in the electrophoresis bath and prevents the charged or polarized nanostructure materials from depositing in the neighborhood of the gates. Therefore, the nanostructure materials are selectively deposited on the cathode. An electrical short circuit between the gates and the cathodes can be avoided. It does not require a masked sacrificial layer, and therefore keeps the manufacturing process simple and the cost down.

Abstract: An electrodepositable coating composition comprising a cationic acrylic resin derived from an epoxy function acrylic resin and an IPDI trimer and coated substrates having improved sweat resistance are disclosed. Methods for using the coatings are also disclosed.

Abstract: A process is provided for separating, concentrating and recovery of boron compound from aqueous solution containing boron, strongly dissociated anions and some cations. The process specifically integrates electrodialysis with ion exchange to selectively separate boron from aqueous solution that contains a wide concentration range of boron, strongly ionised anions such as chloride, nitrate and sulfate, and cations like lithium. The process is adapted for controlling boron concentration in an industrial process, for the recovery or purification of boron and some cations like lithium form aqueous solutions, and for wastewater treatment.

Abstract: In accordance with the invention, a surface of a substrate is patterned by the steps of providing the substrate, covering the surface with electrolyte, and disposing at least one nanoscale electrode in the electrolyte adjacent the surface. A current is then applied between the electrode and the substrate to electrolyically deposit material on or remove material from the surface. The material is deposited or removed in a pattern dependent on the pattern, movement and shape of the nanoscale electrodes. Apparatus for this process and novel products therefrom are also described.

Abstract: A process for cathodically reducing unwanted Fe+3 ions to needed Fe+2 ions in an acidic ferrous based plating bath without reducing agents is disclosed. An auxiliary potential of 0.1 to 0.3 volts vs. SCE is applied between the working electrode and a reference electrode and can reduce the molar ratio [Fe+3]/[Fe+2] to 1 ppm without depositing Fe or other metals on the working electrode or causing hydrogen evolution. The process is applicable to electroplating soft magnetic films such as NiFe, FeCo, and CoNiFe and can be performed during plating or during cell idling. The process is cost effective by reducing the amount of hazardous waste and tool down time due to routine solution swap. Other benefits are improved uniformity in composition and thickness of plated films because issues associated with decomposed reducing agents are avoided.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system for generating hydrogen gas in an aqueous solution based electrolytic or galvanic cell wherein the cathode is made form aluminum or an aluminum alloy. In a preferred arrangement the cell is a galvanic cell and cathode is made from aluminum or aluminum alloy and the anode is made from magnesium or magnesium alloy.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for processing a substrate having a conductive material layer disposed thereon are provided. In one embodiment, a composition for processing a substrate having a conductive material layer disposed thereon is provided which composition includes an acid based electrolyte, a chelating agent, a corrosion inhibitor, a passivating polymeric material, a pH adjusting agent, a solvent, and a pH between about 3 and about 10. The composition is used in a method to form a passivation layer on the conductive material layer, abrading the passivation layer to expose a portion of the conductive material layer, applying a bias to the substrate, and removing the conductive material layer.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for processing a substrate having a conductive material layer disposed thereon are provided. In one embodiment, a composition for processing a substrate having a conductive material layer disposed thereon is provided which composition includes an acid based electrolyte, a chelating agent, a corrosion inhibitor, a passivating polymeric material, a pH adjusting agent, a leveler a solvent, and a pH between about 3 and about 10. The composition is used in a method to form a passivation layer on the conductive material layer, abrading the passivation layer to expose a portion of the conductive material layer, applying a bias to the substrate, and removing the conductive material layer.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for determining the position of a channel which has been electrochemically machined in a workpiece by an electrolyte and/or the wall thickness which is present between the electrochemically machined channel and the surface of the component, in which magnetic particles are added to the electrolyte used during the machining, the magnetic fields associated with the magnetic particles are detected, and the position of the electrochemically machined channel and/or the wall thickness which is present between the electrochemically machined channel and the surface of the component is determined on the basis of the detected magnetic fields.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for detecting characteristics of a microelectronic substrate. A method in accordance with an embodiment of the invention includes positioning the microelectronic substrate proximate to and spaced apart from the first and second spaced apart electrodes, contacting the microelectronic substrate with a polishing surface of a polishing medium, removing conductive material from the microelectronic substrate by moving the substrate and/or the electrodes relative to each other while passing a variable electrical signal through the electrodes and the substrate, and detecting a change in the variable electrical signal or a supplemental electrical signal passing through the microelectronic substrate. The rate at which material is removed from the microelectronic substrate can be changed based at least in part on the change in the electrical signal.

Abstract: The invention is an electrolytic microfinishing process which utilizes a conductive tool as a cathode and a conductive workpiece as an anode both connected to a power supply. Electrolytic fluid is pumped between the tool and workpiece, creating a decomposition of the workpiece surface allowing the surface of the workpiece to be removed or wiped away by the interaction of the flowing electrolyte and rotation of the tool without generating any heat at a rate significantly faster than any other known machining process. The tool has no contact with the workpiece and accordingly, requires very low clamping loads to hold the workpiece in the spindle during the finishing operation. Due to the low clamping loads, the distortion of the workpiece is completely eliminated. Modulating the power supply during the work cycle allows the use of a single tool for both roughing and finishing as a continuous cycle to significantly provide surface finishes previously unobtainable.

Abstract: A method for cleaning the electrochemical catalyst of fuel cell electrodes that is performed by applying a power pulse, using a low-power supply, across the fuel cell electrodes. The power pulse removes chemisorbed chemical species from the electrochemical catalyst of the electrodes.

Abstract: An electrically powered apparatus for generating a solute such as chlorine to sanitise a body of water such as a pool or spa, a by-product of such generation being an explosive gas such as hydrogen, said apparatus including: a) an electrolytic cell (1) adapted to operate in a substantially vertical orientation through a range of 45 degrees either side of the vertical; b) a water inlet (13) and outlet (14) both located at the lower end of said electrolytic cell (1); and c) a defined space (16) surrounding one or more electrodes (28) of said electrolytic cell (1), wherein, in, the event that water flow through said apparatus ceases and said electrolytic cell (1) continues to produce said explosive gas, said explosive gas will displace water in said defined space (16) until there is no water around said electrodes (28).

Abstract: Sensor for determining a chemical element and method for controlling such a sensor. The invention relates to a sensor (1) for determining a chemical element or a chemical compound (CO2) in a supplied gaseous medium with a reaction area (9), on and/or in which the element or the compound brings about a chemical reaction that changes a characteristic parameter (for example the work function), Version 3* of the reaction area (9), a sensor element (5) that is placed in the sensor (1) to detect the change in the characteristic parameter, a signal output (11) at which an output signal (UPS) corresponding to the chemical reaction detected by the sensor element can be detected as the measured variable, and a reaction control device (SC, 12) with an electrode system (10, 13) for applying a control voltage to affect a reaction in the reaction area (9).

Abstract: A sensing device having: a bottom electrode, a dielectric on the bottom electrode, a grid of nanoelectrodes on the dielectric, and a top electrode in electrical contact with the grid. A method of chemical or biological sensing comprising: providing a grid of nanoelectrodes; exposing the grid to fluid suspected of containing a chemical or biological analyte; and measuring a change in the capacitance and conductance of the grid.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a contact lens package containing a contact lens in a compressed state. In one exemplary embodiment, the overall internal depth of the package is less than the natural sagittal depth of the contact lens. Different single-use contact lens package shapes and configurations may be used. In some embodiments, a spring disc is included in the packages to help present the contact lens to the user when the package is opened. The contact lens packages may be adhered or clipped to a card or other carrier sheet, and may be housed in a number of different secondary packages.

Abstract: A transparent travel hatbox includes a substantially transparent lower portion, a substantially transparent upper portion, and at least one hinge connecting the substantially transparent upper and lower portions. The hatbox also includes a hat restraint for securing a hat within the hatbox. The hatbox also includes a lock for securing the interior of the hatbox. Beneficially, at least one of the substantially transparent upper and lower portions includes an air vent. Also beneficially, the hatbox includes a handle detachably attached to at least one of the substantially transparent upper and lower portions for transporting the hatbox. Also beneficially, the hatbox includes a pouch detachably attached to an interior surface of the hatbox.

Abstract: A package assembly and method for packaging sutures is provided. The package includes a substantially rectangular casing defining an internal area therein and including a container portion having a substantially flat bottom side defined by first, second, third and fourth edges, and first, second, third and fourth sides extending upwardly from the first, second, third and fourth edges respectively, and a lid portion removably secured to a top side of the container portion to thereby form an integral casing. The package further includes a plurality of suture packages each having a substantially planar shape, wherein the plurality of packages are positioned within the internal area of the rectangular casing substantially parallel to one another and substantially perpendicular to the bottom side of the container portion.

Abstract: The instant application relates to a fiber bale and a method for producing the same. The instant fiber bale includes a highly compressed hexahedral fibrous material substantially free of disrupting curvatures on a top side or a bottom side. The highly compressed hexahedral fibrous material has a packing density of at least 300 kg/m3. The method for producing a fiber bale according to instant invention includes the following steps: (1) providing a press for producing a highly compressed hexahedral fibrous material comprising at least one convex bale platen; (2) filling the press with the fibrous material; (3) pressing the fibrous material via the press; (4) thereby forming the highly compressed hexahedral fibrous material; (5) packaging the highly compressed hexahedral fibrous material with a wrapping material; and (6) securing the wrapping material thereby producing the fiber bale.

Abstract: A gel-pack for chilling bottled beverages comprising a flexible plastic envelope, sealed around its perimeter, provided with a spaced array of holes therethrough whereby the gel-pack can be draped over a plurality of beverage bottles, with the necks of the bottles protruding through the holes in the gel-pack.

Abstract: A hinge-lid type package for containing an inner pack (IP) of filter cigarettes has an outer body (10), a lid (12) for opening and closing an upper opening end (26) of the outer body (10), and a pair of connector tabs (36) connected to the upper opening end (26) through a breaking line (38). When the package is produced, the connector tabs (36) enter the lid (12) to be adhered to the inner surface of the lid (12). When the connector tabs (36) are broken along the breaking line (38), the connector tabs (36) leave breaking traces (X) in both the outer body (10) and the lid (12).

Abstract: A pallet having wooden boards secured together by nails which achieve approved operating characteristics. The nail is embodied in a package secured together by a pair of parallel wires welded to the shanks. Each nail having a shank diameter between 0.092 in. and 0.148 in., each nail is manufactured from steel wire and has a length between 1.625 in. and 3 in. The ratio of the head diameter to the shank diameter of each nail is between 2.70 and 3.37.

Abstract: A surgical clip dispenser arranged to hold a plurality of surgical clips for retrieval by a clip applier is provided. The dispenser in one aspect includes a clip housing with a plurality of slots each adapted to hold a plurality of surgical clips and is biased for rotational movement. A regulator substantially encompassed by the clip housing in one position prevents rotational movement of the clip housing and in another position permits rotation of the clip housing.

Abstract: The utility model discloses a toolbox, include a cover, a body, and rotatory locking devices arranged symmetrically on both sides of the toolbox which connect the body and the cover, said rotatory locking device include: an upper rabbet portion arranged on the cover of the toolbox, a lower rabbet portion arranged on the body of the toolbox, and a clasp plate connecting the upper rabbet portion and the lower rabbet portion. The cover of the toolbox can rotate by the upper rabbet portion rotating around the lower rabbet portion, and they will not disengage by the limitation of the locking plate, when the toolbox is to be open, the locking plate in one side was disengaged from the upper rabbet portion, the toobox was opened around the rotatory locking device arranged on another side, thus the toolbox can be opened rotatablely in two directions, when the locking plates on either sides was disengaged, the cover of the toolbox can be disassembled from the body, it is very convenient.

Abstract: A tool case including modular storage compartments. In one aspect, the tool case includes a translucent cover and the modular storage compartments can be removed from the tool case and displayed or mounted to a surface.

Abstract: A package and two part blank for forming a package for carrying one or more articles comprising a carton having a plurality of wall panels for forming a tubular structure wherein each end of the carton is closed by a first panel hingedly connected to one of the wall panels, an intermediate panel hingedly connected to another wall panel of the carton and adapted to be placed in face contacting relationship within the inner face of the first panel. There further comprises within the carton an insert structure for supporting the one or more articles including a second panel. An aperture or recess is provided in the intermediate panel such that glue applied to an outer face of the second panel and the intermediate panel secures together said first, second and intermediate panels when placed together in face contacting relationship to close the end of the carton.

Abstract: A carton for dispensing articles having a dispensing feature is adapted for restraining articles within the carton until the consumer desires to remove the endmost articles from the carton. To erect the carton, a plurality of panels are connected together to define an end of the carton. A first detachable portion at the end of the carton may be detached from the carton to define an opening for dispensing articles from an upper or lower row of articles within the carton. A second detachable portion at the end of the carton borders the first detachable portion and may also be detached from the carton to enlarge the opening in an alternative embodiment. The second detachable portion restrains articles in an upper row of articles prior to detaching the second detachable portion from the erected carton.

Abstract: The present invention provides a container for holding product therein during shipment and being returned for reuse that has a body, tracks attached to opposite sides of the body, and a plurality of support members supported by the tracks. Rollers are located at the ends of the support members which roll in the tracks to move the support members. The support members have product receptacles whereby products may be suspended between adjacent support members, portions of the products residing in the product receptacles.

Abstract: The present invention provides a collapsible container for holding product therein during shipment and being returned for reuse that has a collapsible body, tracks attached to opposite sides of the collapsible body, and a plurality of support members extending between the tracks. Sliders are located at the ends of flexible supports, the sliders being slidable in the tracks to move the support members. The support members support dunnage for supporting products for storage or shipment.

Abstract: Shoes and shoe package assemblies include a scent-generating material for emitting a scent unusual to footwear, e.g., for attracting consumers and/or creating an impact in marketing.

Abstract: A malodor transmission-resistant plastic finding employment in cassettes housing flexible tubular material.

Abstract: There is provided a container for a medicament powder formed from a material comprising a desiccant. In one embodiment the container is a medicament dispenser comprising a body defining a reservoir for medicament in powder form, and an outlet in communication with said reservoir. In another embodiment the container is a medicament dispenser comprising a body defining a chamber for receipt of a medicament carrier, and an outlet in communication with said chamber. Methods of controlling moisture flow are also described.

Abstract: The invention provides a substantially child resistant package. A gate panel (110) and a tab panel (130) are secured to an aperture panel (130). At least one aperture (123) is formed on the aperture panel. At least one gate (114) is formed on the gate panel and is aligned with the aperture when the gate panel is in contact with the aperture panel. At least one partially detachable tab (136) is formed on the tab panel and is aligned with the gate when the tab panel is in contact with the gate panel. In an exemplary package, a blister is aligned with and secured to the aperture panel. The gate panel is folded and secured to the aperture panel and blister package. The tab panel is folded and covers at least some portion of the gate panel.

Abstract: A child resistant drug package. The package includes a blister layer having at least one blister and a plurality of backing layers covering the blister layer. The backing layers include tabs that require sequential removal in order to gain access to the contents of the blister.

Abstract: A blister package for housing a medicament having a base layer and a blister layer, joined together in-part. Each layer has a tab creation separation line allowing a user to initiate a predetermined sequence of steps required to access the medicament. The tab creation separation lines are located interior to the perimeter of each associated layer. The tab creation separation lines selectively reduce the strength of the associated layer thereby allowing a user to “punch out,” or create, a tab for use in accessing the medicament. A number of predetermined manipulations must be completed to access the medicament. These manipulations include applying a force to create a tab, removing the tab thereby creating a sinistral wing and a dextral wing, and rotating the sinistral wing and the dextral wing in opposite directions to cause a tear that exposes the medicament.