With Organic Treating Agent (e.g., Solvent, Surfactant, Or Reactant Yielding Soluble Product, Etc.) Patents (Class 134/22.19)
  • Patent number: 7367350
    Abstract: A film processing device using vaporized liquid source capable of confirming the flow control accuracy of flow control equipment such as a mass flow controller (15) controlling the flow of the liquid source without separating the flow control equipment from piping and disassembling the piping, comprising a bypass passage (41) for bypassing a part of a washing fluid feed passage (32) for feeding washing fluid to a liquid source feed passage (12) and a flowmeter such as an MFM (42), wherein the washing fluid is allowed to flow to the mass flow controller (15) through the MFM (42), and the flow of the washing fluid detected by the MFM (42) is compared with a target flow set in the mass flow controller (15) to check whether the mass flow controller (15) operates normally or not.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2008
    Assignee: Tokyo Electron Limited
    Inventors: Daisuke Toriya, Kenji Homma, Akihiko Tsukada, Kouji Shimomura
  • Patent number: 7354485
    Abstract: A method of cleaning a surface which comprises the step of applying an aqueous cleaning solution to the surface wherein the active cleaning ingredient of the aqueous solution consists essentially of a lignosulfonate. It has been found that lignosulfonate can function as a cleaning agent for a variety of cleaning materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2008
    Assignee: Earth Alive Resources Inc.
    Inventor: David H. Jones
  • Publication number: 20080078423
    Abstract: Holes having a variety of shapes exist on a surface of a substrate. When pure water is supplied on the substrate in a rinsing process, part of the pure water enters the holes. The pure water which have entered the holes can be hardly shaken off even though the substrate is rotated at a high speed. Therefore, HFE is held on the substrate so as to form an HFE layer after the rinsing process. In this case, the HFE enters the holes while the pure water emerges from the holes to the upper surface of the HFE due to a difference in specific gravity between the pure water and the HFE. Thus, the pure water is reliably prevented from remaining in the holes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2007
    Publication date: April 3, 2008
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Araki, Toyohide Hayashi
  • Patent number: 7337788
    Abstract: Uncured solvent-based paint may be flushed from a paint delivery installation using a substantially non-aqueous composition containing one or more organic solvents and a polymer having acid and/or amine functional groups.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2008
    Assignee: Henkel Kommanditgesellschaft auf Aktien
    Inventors: Neil R. Wilson, Bruce H. Goodreau
  • Patent number: 7334595
    Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus and process for storing and delivering a low vapor pressure process chemical to a process tool for semiconductor fabrication, comprising: a) a bulk container for storing the process chemical; b) a process container for delivering the process chemical to the process tool; c) a first manifold for delivering process chemical from the bulk container to the process container; d) a solvent container containing a quantity of solvent, e) a second manifold for delivering the process chemical from the process container to a process tool; f) a solvent recovery container for containing used solvent and removed process chemical, and, g) a solvent evaporator to differentially remove solvent from process chemical in the solvent recovery container by entrainment in a carrier gas, vacuum removal, heating or combinations thereof. The containers can be baffled on their inert gas inlets. The cabinet can be heated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2008
    Assignee: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles Michael Birtcher, Martin Castaneda Martinez, Thomas Andrew Steidl, Gil Vivanco, David James Silva
  • Patent number: 7293569
    Abstract: Compositions and methods for cleaning deposition systems utilizing alkylsilanes are described herein. In an embodiment, a method of cleaning a semiconductor fabrication system comprises flushing the system with a solvent comprising at least one alkylsilane. In another embodiment, a method of removing at least one chemical precursor from a semiconductor fabrication system comprises forcing a solvent containing at least one alkylsilane through the semiconductor fabrication system and dissolving the at least one chemical precursor in the solvent. The solvent may also contain mixtures of different alkylsilanes and other organic solvents.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2007
    Assignee: Air Liquide Electronics U.S. LP
    Inventors: Ravi Laxman, Ashutosh Misra, Jean-Marc Girard
  • Patent number: 7252096
    Abstract: On-Line and Off-Line methods of simultaneously cleaning and disinfecting an industrial water system are described and claimed. The methods involve the addition to the water of the industrial water system of a Compound selected from the group consisting of the alkali salts of chlorite and chlorate and mixtures thereof; and an acid, followed by allowing the water in the industrial water system to circulate for several hours. The reaction of the alkali salts of chlorite and chlorate and acid produces chlorine dioxide in-situ in the water of the industrial water system. The chlorine dioxide kills microorganisms and the acid acts to remove deposits upon the water-contact surfaces of the equipment. An alternative method involves the use of a chelating agent and a biocide. Other possible cleaning and disinfection reagents may be added as needed including corrosion inhibitors, chelating agents, biocides, surfactants and reducing agents.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Assignee: Nalco Company
    Inventors: Jasbir S. Gill, Amit Gupta
  • Patent number: 7252770
    Abstract: The present invention is directed a multifunctional polymer capable of inhibiting both calcium carbonate and calcium phosphate scale. The multifunctional polymer contains at least one monomer unit from each of four groups: dicarboxylic acids, mono-carboxylic acids, nonionic monomers, and sulfonated or sulfated monomers. The polymer also inhibits many other alkaline earth scales, such as calcium sulfate scale and provides stabilization of minerals such as iron, zinc and manganese. The polymer is especially effective in highly stressed systems that contain high electrolyte concentrations and have a high number of cycles of concentration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Assignee: National Starch and Chemical Investment Holding Corporation
    Inventors: Anne-Marie B. Austin, Eric C. Ward
  • Patent number: 7219675
    Abstract: A novel cleaning composition comprises a dilutant, a wetting agent, a chelating agent, an alkaline builder, and a chlorine provider. The dilutant is preferably water. The wetting agent is alkoxylated alcohol. The chelating agent is an acrylic/maleic acid copolymer. The alkaline builder is sodium hydroxide. The chlorine provider is sodium hypochlorite. A method comprises the steps of partially filling the whirlpool tub with water, activating the whirlpool pump to circulate the water, adding to the circulating water a cleaning composition comprising a dilutant, a wetting agent, a chelating agent, an alkaline builder, and a chlorine provider, running the whirlpool pump for a predetermined time to circulate the water and cleaning composition thoroughly through the internal plumbing, and draining the whirlpool tub completely.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2007
    Inventor: Robert Brust
  • Patent number: 7185663
    Abstract: Methods and compositions for on-line cleaning of internal surfaces of selected sections of a hydrocarbon fuel burning gas turbine and associated heat recovery equipment, during operation. Cleaning solutions containing graphite and/or molybdenum-based particles and oil soluble corrosion inhibitors, aromatic solvents, and surfactants are selectively introduced directly into the combustion chamber (combustor) of the gas turbine, into the fuel stream, water washing system, or the combustion air system (hot gas path). The cleaning process dislodges unwanted ash deposit buildup and, thereby restores the gas turbine to rated power. When introduced into the compressor section, the particles impinge on the metal surfaces, cleaning them prior to entering the hot gas section where the process may be repeated. They may also be carried through the exhaust to additionally clean attendant heat recovery equipment, if present.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Inventors: Kenneth W. Koch, Daniel T. Smith, Mark D. Hughes, Thomas Urbas
  • Patent number: 7172657
    Abstract: In a state of the inside of a treatment chamber of treatment equipment being evacuated, therein a cleaning gas containing trifluoroaceticacid (TFA) as a cleaning agent is supplied. Metal such as copper used in the formation of an interconnection or an electrode and stuck on an inner wall surface of the treatment chamber, when coming into contact with the cleaning agent (TFA) in the cleaning gas, without forming an oxide or a metallic salt, is directly complexed. The complex is sublimed due to the evacuation and is exhausted outside the treatment chamber. Accordingly, at less labor and low cost, the cleaning can be efficiently implemented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2007
    Assignee: Tokyo Electron Limited
    Inventors: Yasuhiko Kojima, Yasuhiro Oshima
  • Patent number: 7165561
    Abstract: Systems and methods for reducing biofilms are described. The systems and methods are particularly suitable for use with conventional aqueous crossflow filtration systems, such as reverse osmosis systems. The addition of the enzyme/surfactant compound has been found to enhance the effectiveness of conventional crossflow filtration processes by decreasing or inhibiting the growth of biofilms and other contaminants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2007
    Assignee: Advanced Biocatalytics Corp.
    Inventors: John W. Baldridge, Andrew Michalow
  • Patent number: 7124764
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a method for removing impurities from a porous material by flowing a supercritical fluid with or without a modifier therein over a to-be-cleaned porous material having pores at the nanometer level under suitable temperatures and pressures, so that the supercritical fluid migrates into the pores at the nanometer level and removes impurities entrapped therein. The method of the present invention uses the physical and chemical properties of the supercritical fluid and optionally the modifier to clean the porous material without using an acid or alkaline solvent. The method of the present invention conserves water, and is both a highly efficient and environmentally friendly cleaning technique.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Assignee: Industrial Technology Research Institute
    Inventors: Kon-Tsu Kin, Chiou-Mei Chen, Pei-Lin Chang, Hsiao-Fen Cheng
  • Patent number: 7121286
    Abstract: A method for cleaning a manufacturing apparatus, includes introducing a cleaning gas including fluorine so as to flow from upstream toward an outlet port in a reaction chamber; and flowing a protective gas which reacts with the fluorine from a vicinity of the outlet port of the reaction chamber as an introduction position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2006
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventor: Takashi Nakao
  • Patent number: 7122510
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for one-bath chemical cleaning and preservation of interior surfaces of hollow steel bodies, without any organic solvents, comprising controlled change of the liquid bath in that in a circuit of hoses running from a mobile tank equipped with a pump unit and steam generator there is circulated a liquid stream to a defined cavity of steel. The composition of the liquid is changed methodically by the addition of fresh chemical additives until the end of the process. Fresh water at 80° C. has added thereto an alkaline degreasing liquid A containing chlorine-free tensides, which is circulated, whereupon cleaning liquid B, consisting of citric acid with added cationic tensides, is added to a pH of 4.5 and is circulated. There is then added a complexing derusting liquid C, with active modified aminocarboxykate made biologically degradable, with adjustment of the pH to 4.5–5.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2006
    Inventor: Magnor Nordaa
  • Patent number: 7114507
    Abstract: The invention is to a process for removing contaminants from a compressor and/or compressor intercooler in a methanol to olefin separation system. The process comprises compressing an effluent in a compressor having an inlet and an outlet and a compressor surface, the compressing occurring under conditions effective to form a contaminant on the compressor surface. A contaminant-removal medium is injected into the compressor or intercooler and the contaminant-removal medium contacts the contaminant under conditions effective to remove the contaminant from the compressor or intercooler inner surface thereby forming a mobile contaminant. The mobile contaminant is then removed from the compressor or intercooler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Assignee: ExxonMobil Chemical Patents Inc.
    Inventors: Keith H. Kuechler, David R. Lumgair, Nicolas P. Coute, Paul N. Chisholm, Cor F. van Egmond
  • Patent number: 7115171
    Abstract: A method and cleaning composition for removing engine deposits from turbine components, in particular turbine disks and turbine shafts. This method comprises the following steps: (a) providing a turbine component having a surface with engine deposits thereon, wherein the turbine component comprises a nickel and/or cobalt-containing base metal; and (b) treating the surface of the turbine component with a cleaning composition to convert the engine deposits thereon to a removable smut without substantially etching the base metal of the turbine component. The cleaning composition comprises an aqueous solution that is substantially free of acetic acid and comprising: a nitrate ion source in an amount, by weight of the nitrate ion, of from about 470 to about 710 grams/liter; and a bifluoride ion source in an amount, by weight of the bifluoride ion, of from about 0.5 to about 15 grams/liter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: John Matthew Powers, William Clarke Brooks
  • Patent number: 7073519
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a facility parts cleaning solution for the processing of (meth)acrylic acid and/or (meth)acrylic esters and a cleaning method using the cleaning solution. An aqueous cleaning composition comprising 5 to 50 wt % of at least one alkali metal hydroxide selected from the group consisting of sodium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide, 0.01 to 1 wt % of a water-soluble amino acid, 0.001 to 0.05 wt % of N,N?-methylene bisacrylamide, and 0.001 to 0.05 wt % of azobisisobutyronitrile is used to clean facility parts for manufacturing (meth)acrylic acid and/or (meth)acrylic esters in order to easily remove polymers and deposits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Assignee: LG Chem, Ltd.
    Inventors: Seok-Hwan Choi, Seong-Pil Kang, Kyoung-Su Ha, Geon-Yong Kim, Boo-Gon Woo
  • Patent number: 7055534
    Abstract: Articles, solutions, and methods for enhancing the grasping of and cleaning athletic equipment grips, in particular a golf club grip. These articles, solutions, and methods preferably comprise a water miscible solvent, a cleaning agent, and water to removes dirt, perspiration, water, and dried skin oils that have accumulated on the grip during the normal course of participating in athletic activity, while cleaning, drying, and restoring the natural tackiness of the grip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Assignee: Grip Clean LLP
    Inventors: Scott R. Goode, Paul Rawl
  • Patent number: 7048803
    Abstract: A method of dissolving scale comprises contacting the scale with a solution of an alkali metal bisulfate. Another method of dissolving scale comprises contacting the scale with a solution of an alkali metal bisulfate and a strong mineral acid. A further method of dissolving scale comprises contacting the scale with a solution of an alkali metal bisulfate and an inorganic oxidizer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Assignee: Jones-Hamilton Co.
    Inventor: Benjamin D. Williams
  • Patent number: 7041176
    Abstract: A pipe renovating method and system in which a pipe is first cleaned and then coated with a suitable coating material. In the cleaning step, pressurized air and particles of abrasive material are pumped into a first end of a pipe while suction is applied to the second end of the pipe via a vacuum pump to improve flow along the entire length of the pipe. The coating material is subsequently pumped in at one end of the cleaned pipe while suction is applied at the other end. In each step, the suction flow rate is higher than the input flow rate, so as to steer the mixture towards the second end. This method can be used to coat and clean different sections of a pipe system, by connecting the input materials successively to different access ports in the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Inventor: Joerg Kruse
  • Patent number: 7037380
    Abstract: A compound such as Alq3 accumulated on the inner surface of a chamber at the time of organic EL device production and wasted is recovered and recycled, whereby the production cost is reduced. The inner surface of a chamber or the surface of components in the chamber to which a compound such as Alq3 has adhered is cleaned with a fluorinated alcohol such as 2,2,3,3,4,4,5,5-octafluoropentanol to recover Alq3.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Assignee: Asahi Glass Company, Limited
    Inventors: Nobuya Hayashi, Shinichiro Narui, Hidekazu Okamoto, Masaaki Tsuzaki
  • Patent number: 7037376
    Abstract: A processing chamber may be effectively cleaned by a remote plasma flowed through the chamber in a direction opposite to the direction of gas flowed during wafer processing. Specifically, the remotely generated plasma may be introduced directly into the chamber through a processing gas exhaust or other port, and then be exhausted from the chamber by traveling through the gas distribution shower head to the foreline. In one embodiment of the present invention, this reverse flow of remote cleaning plasma is maintained for the duration of the chamber cleaning step. In an alternative embodiment, the direction of flow of the remote cleaning plasma through the chamber is alternated between this reverse flow and a conventional forward flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Assignee: Applied Materials Inc.
    Inventors: Keith Harvey, Karthik Janakiraman, Kirby Floyd
  • Patent number: 7018965
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a gas turbine cleaner. The composition of the present invention includes a glycol alkyl ether compound, an alkoxylated surfactant with an alkyl chain length of from about 3 to 18 carbons and a metal corrosion inhibitor component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Laibin Yan, Bruce K. Fillipo
  • Patent number: 7011716
    Abstract: Drying of patterned wafers is achieved in a manner effecting removal of water from the patterned wafers without collapse or deterioration of the pattern structures thereof. The drying is carried out in one aspect of the invention with a composition containing supercritical fluid, and at least one water-reactive agent that chemically reacts with water to form reaction product(s) more soluble in the supercritical fluid than water. Various methodologies are described for use of supercritical fluids to dry patterned wafers, which avoid the (low water solubility) deficiency of supercritical fluids such as supercritical CO2.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2006
    Assignee: Advanced Technology Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Chongying Xu, Michael Korzenski, Thomas H. Baum, Alexander Borovik, Eliodor G. Ghenciu
  • Patent number: 7007701
    Abstract: The invention is to a process for removing contaminants from a compressor and/or compressor intercooler in a methanol to olefin separation system. The process comprises compressing an effluent in a compressor having an inlet and an outlet and a compressor surface, the compressing occurring under conditions effective to form a contaminant on the compressor surface. A contaminant-removal medium is injected into the compressor or intercooler and the contaminant-removal medium contacts the contaminant under conditions effective to remove the contaminant from the compressor or intercooler inner surface thereby forming a mobile contaminant. The mobile contaminant is then removed from the compressor or intercooler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Assignee: ExxonMobil Chemical Patents Inc.
    Inventors: Keith H. Kuechler, David R. Lumgair, Nicolas P. Coute, Paul N. Chisholm, Cor F. Van Egmond
  • Patent number: 6994823
    Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for removing fumes from an endoscope disinfecting apparatus configured for disinfecting an endoscope with a disinfecting solution. In architecture, the exhaust system includes a fan housing, a fan disposed within the fan housing, an exhaust hose connected to the fan housing, and wherein the exhaust system is connected to the endoscope disinfecting apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2006
    Assignee: Next Step Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: H. Thomas Hight, III
  • Patent number: 6991685
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method of low temperature cleaning and applying an antimicrobial treatment to food and beverage plant equipment. In addition, the method includes carbon dioxide compatible chemistry. The method may be achieved through a multi-step method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Assignee: Ecolab Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph I. Kravitz, Francis L. Richter, Duane J. Reinhardt, Gerald K. Wichmann
  • Patent number: 6986817
    Abstract: A method of automatic cleaning of cooking cavities of cooking equipment for food processing includes the introduction of steam at a temperature of at least 100.deg. C. from a supply line and nozzle into a cooking cavity for a time period depending on the degree of disinfection desired. The cooking cavity is rinsed with the steam condensate; and the supply line and nozzle are flushed with demineralized water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Convotherm Elektogerate GmbH
    Inventors: Lutz Riefenstein, Dario Manicardi
  • Patent number: 6982242
    Abstract: An aqueous detergent composition is provided containing phosphoric acid or salt thereof, an organic phosphate surfactant, a nonionic surfactant, and water. The aqueous detergent composition may be employed to improved the adhesion of a coating to a substrate. Also provided is a method of improving the adhesion of a coating to a substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2006
    Assignee: Rohm and Haas Company
    Inventors: Audrey Brenda Liss, Joseph Martin Rokowski, Thomas James Ennis
  • Patent number: 6953507
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method of low temperature cleaning and applying an antimicrobial treatment to food and beverage plant equipment. In addition, the method includes carbon dioxide compatible chemistry. The method may be achieved through a multi-step method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2005
    Assignee: Ecolab Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph I. Kravitz, Francis L. Richter, Duane J. Reinhardt, Gerald K. Wichmann
  • Patent number: 6953047
    Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus for storing and delivering a low vapor pressure process chemical to a process tool for semiconductor fabrication, comprising: a) a bulk container for storing the process chemical; b) a process container for delivering the process chemical to the process tool; c) a first manifold for delivering process chemical from the bulk container to the process container; d) a solvent container containing a quantity of solvent, and; e) a second manifold for delivering the process chemical from the process container to a process tool. A process for using the apparatus is also contemplated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2005
    Assignee: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles Michael Birtcher, Martin Castaneda Martinez, Thomas Andrew Steidl, Gil Vivanco, David James Silva
  • Patent number: 6936112
    Abstract: Disclosed is a novel process for cleaning and restoring the operating efficiency of organic liquid chemical exchangers in a safe and effective manner and in a very short period of time, without a need to disassemble the equipment and without the need to rinse contaminate from the equipment after cleaning. Used is a formulation of monocyclic saturated terpene mixed with a non-ionic surfactant package specifically suited to oil rinsing. The terpene-based chemical is injected into organically contaminated exchangers using a novel process involving high-pressure steam to form a very effective cleaning vapor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2005
    Assignee: Refined Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Bruce Robert Jansen, Sean Edward Sears
  • Patent number: 6916383
    Abstract: A coherent body (B) of wet crushed ice is pumped along a pipe (5). The crushed ice body can be used as a means of cleaning the pipe wall, as a means of driving a product liquid out of the pipe for recovery, or as a barrier for preventing mixing of two different bodies of liquid (1,2) in the pipe to either side of it. Being coherent but flowable and non-tensile, the mass of crushed ice can negotiate internal constrictions, obstructions and junctions of the pipe readily, unlike conventional solid or gelled pigs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2005
    Assignee: University of Bristol
    Inventor: Giuseppe L. Quarini
  • Patent number: 6905550
    Abstract: Removal of water-insoluble organic residues from inorganic surfaces can be accomplished in aqueous cleaning solutions containing an oxidant at a preselected temperature wherein the pH is adjusted with respect to the isoelectric point of the surface material to be removed so that the pH is above the pK, and the isoelectric point of the surface for acid materials, and below the PKa and the isoelectric point of the surface for basic materials. Surfactants can also be added to the cleaning solution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2005
    Assignee: Princeton Trade & Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Mohamed Emam Labib
  • Patent number: 6902627
    Abstract: In a method of cleaning metal-containing deposits such as tantalum from a surface of a process chamber component, such as a metal surface, the surface is immersed in a cleaning solution. In one version, the cleaning solution is a solution having HF and HNO3 in a ratio that removes deposits from the surface substantially without eroding the surface. In another version, the cleaning solution is a solution having KOH and H2O2. The solution can be treated after cleaning the surface to recover tantalum-containing materials and one or more of the cleaning solutions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: Applied Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Karl Brueckner, Hong Wang
  • Patent number: 6902628
    Abstract: In a method of cleaning and refurbishing a process chamber component having a metal coating having a surface thereon, the surface of the metal coating is immersed in an acidic solution to remove at least a portion of the process deposits from the surface. Thereafter, the surface of the metal coating is immersed in a basic solution to remove substantially all the metal coating. The component may optionally be bead blasting to roughen a surface of the component, and the metal coating may be re-formed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: Applied Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Hong Wang, Yongxiang He, Clifford C Stow
  • Patent number: 6893509
    Abstract: Disclosed is a novel process for interior cleaning and by cleaning, removing noxious gas and/or restoring the operating efficiency of organically contaminated hydrocarbon processing equipment in a safe and effective manner and in a very short period of time, without a need to manually enter an unsafe environment and mechanically remove organic contaminants. Used is a formulation of non-aqueous, monocyclic saturated terpene mixed with a non-ionic surfactant package. The terpene-based chemical is injected into organically contaminated equipment using a novel process involving high-pressure steam to form a very effective cleaning vapor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Assignee: Refined Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Sean E. Sears, Kevin L. Roberts
  • Patent number: 6887597
    Abstract: A cleaner-passivator composition and method for treating a fuel cell cooling system are described. The cleaner-passivator comprises a complexing agent, a surfactant, a corrosion inhibitor, and a solvent. The cleaner-passivator reduces the contaminants circulating in the fuel cell coolant system that contribute to increasing conductivity in the fuel cell coolant. In addition, the passivator reduces the surface corrosion in the fuel cell system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Assignee: Prestone Products Corporation
    Inventors: Bo Yang, Peter M. Woyciesjes, Filipe J. Marinho
  • Patent number: 6881244
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for preventing the deposition of contaminants in steam systems. In a method of this type, deposits are prevented in a simple and economic manner by metering an additive into the steam, which additive adheres to the steam-side surface of the steam system and has the effect of repelling moisture and contaminants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: Alstom Technology LTD
    Inventors: Erhard Liebig, Robert Svoboda
  • Patent number: 6872263
    Abstract: Disclosed is a novel process for interior cleaning and by cleaning, removing noxious gas and/or restoring the operating efficiency of organically contaminated hydrocarbon processing dynamic devices in a safe and effective manner and in a very short period of time, without a need to manually enter an unsafe environment and mechanically remove organic contaminants. Used is a formulation of non-aqueous, monocyclic saturated terpene mixed with a non-ionic surfactant package. The terpene-based chemical is injected into the organically contaminated device using a novel process involving high-pressure steam to form a very effective cleaning vapor. The device is activated during the process. The vapor may be optionally directed against the normal-flow direction of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2005
    Assignee: Refined Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Bruce Robert Jansen, Sean Edward Sears
  • Patent number: 6869486
    Abstract: In a method for cleaning for cleaning metallic ion contamination, and especially copper, from wafer containers, the containers are loaded into a cleaning apparatus. The containers are sprayed with a dilute chelating agent solution. The chelating agent solution removes metallic contamination from the containers. The containers are then rinsed with a rinsing liquid, such as deionized water and a surfactant. The containers are then dried, preferably by applying heat and/or hot air movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2005
    Assignee: Semitool, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald G. Breese, C. James Bryer, Eric J. Bergman, Dana R. Scranton
  • Patent number: 6863740
    Abstract: Disclosed is a cleaning method of a ceramic member, which permits removing with a high accuracy the contaminants from a ceramic member contaminated with the contaminant. The cleaning method comprises the steps of processing the contaminated ceramic member with an alkaline chemical liquid having a pH value not smaller than 10 in the presence of an ultrasonic wave, processing the ceramic member processed with the alkaline chemical liquid with a prescribed acidic chemical liquid in the presence of an ultrasonic wave, and heating the ceramic member processed with the acidic chemical liquid under temperatures not lower than 1,000° C.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Assignee: Nihon Ceratec Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shirou Moriyama, Hiroshi Hatakeyama, Hiromichi Ohtaki
  • Patent number: 6857436
    Abstract: A method of cleaning surfaces using a mixed phase cleaning mixture of an aqueous solution and a flow of gas sufficient to produce droplets of the liquid which are entrained by the gas for a time sufficient to clean tubing of various lengths and geometries and porous membranes to remove biofilm, debris and contaminants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Assignee: Princeton Trade & Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Mohamed Emam Labib, Ching-Yue Lai, Peter A. Materna, Geoffrey Lawrence Mahon
  • Patent number: 6840251
    Abstract: On-Line and Off-Line methods of simultaneously cleaning and disinfecting an industrial water system are described and claimed. The methods involve the addition to the water of the industrial water system of a Compound selected from the group consisting of the alkali salts of chlorite and chlorate and mixtures thereof; and an acid, followed by allowing the water in the industrial water system to circulate for several hours. The reaction of the alkali salts of chlorite and chlorate and acid produces chlorine dioxide in-situ in the water of the industrial water system. The chlorine dioxide kills microorganisms and the acid acts to remove deposits upon the water-contact surfaces of the equipment. An alternative method involves the use of a chelating agent and a biocide. Other possible cleaning and disinfection reagents may be added as needed including corrosion inhibitors, chelating agents, biocides, surfactants and reducing agents.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Assignee: Nalco Company
    Inventors: Jasbir S. Gill, Amit Gupta
  • Patent number: 6835121
    Abstract: A chemical-mechanical polishing (CMP) method includes applying a solid abrasive material to a substrate, polishing the substrate, flocculating at least a portion of the abrasive material, and removing at least a majority portion of the flocculated portion from the substrate. Applying solid abrasive material can include applying a CMP slurry or a polishing pad comprising abrasive material. Such a method can further include applying a surfactant comprising material to the substrate to assist in effectuating flocculation of the abrasive material. Such surfactant comprising material may be cationic which includes, for example, a quaternary ammonium substituted salt. Also, for example, the surfactant comprising material may be applied during polishing, brush scrubbing, pressure spraying, or buffing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2004
    Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael T. Andreas
  • Patent number: 6833032
    Abstract: An automatic deliming process for a steam oven cooker is described. The process initiates a deliming procedure after a predetermined time of normal operation, which period of time is determined by the hardness of the water in the local area. Upon the expiration of this period of time a microprocessor signals an operator to shut down normal operation of the oven, and initiate the deliming process. The microprocessor then activates a peristaltic pump which injects a predetermined quantity of deliming liquid from an external reservoir into the generator. After the deliming time has passed and the generator contents have cooled to 140° F. the microprocessor automatically activates a drain pump to drain the deliming solution from the generator. Subsequently the microprocessor activates a fill-solenoid opening and inlet from a reservoir of rinse water into the generator to rinse the same. The microprocessor then again opens the drain to drain the rinse water, and normal operation is resumed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2004
    Assignee: Blodgett Holdings, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott Douglas, John Bardeau
  • Patent number: 6830630
    Abstract: This invention provides fluid-dispensing devices attachable to an air-intake system of an internal combustion engine for introducing an engine cleaner composition into the air intake system. The invention also provides methods of cleaning internal combustion engines using the fluid-dispensing devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventor: Kenneth G. Gatzke
  • Patent number: 6830629
    Abstract: Brass articles having leachable lead are contacted with an aqueous caustic solution that contains a chelating agent. A brass article can optionally be post-treated by contacting it with an aqueous solution containing anazole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: The Ford Meter Box Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward L. Cote, Andrew D. Wenzel, Lance E. Agness
  • Publication number: 20040244821
    Abstract: To provide a pattern formation method capable of forming a pattern by cleaning a liquid droplet ejection head without causing problems during the liquid droplet ejection operation, when the liquid droplet ejection head stored with a storage solution is used again, a pattern formation method includes: filling a passage including a liquid droplet ejection head and a conduit to feed a functional solution to the liquid droplet ejection head with purified water; filling the passage with a solvent dissolving both the purified water and a solvent contained in the functional solution, filling the passage with the solvent contained in the functional solution, surface treating a substrate by forming a lyophobic film on a region surrounding a pattern formation region defined on the substrate; and disposing liquid droplets on the pattern formation region with the liquid droplet ejection head.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2004
    Publication date: December 9, 2004
    Applicant: SEIKO EPSON CORPORATION
    Inventor: Hidekazu Moriyama