Abstract: The apparatus (1) for wet oxidation is pre-assembled with its individual units, namely a high-pressure pump (2), a heat exchanger (3), a reactor (4) for the actual wet oxidation and a compressor (5) for feeding an oxygen/gas mixture, in one or two supporting flames and is accommodated in such a manner that its dimensions and its overall weight allow it to be transported on a road and/or rail vehicle, there advantageously being provided two such supporting flames in the form of standard containers (8 and 9), of which one may contain the reactor (4), divided into individual tube sections (6), and the heat exchanger (3), and the other may contain the remaining units, so that the entire apparatus can be pre-assembled into virtually operational condition and the two containers simply have to be set up, joined together and connected on site. Wet oxidation can thus be carried out even where relatively small quantities of medium are to be purified.

Abstract: An improved apparatus and process for oxidizing industrial spent caustic streams, whereby oxidation of spent caustic occurs in a unitary processing tower with three chambers that cooperate simultaneously to oxidize the caustic in the first chamber; to separate the caustic from the oxidizing gas in the second chamber; and, in the third chamber, to pass gas and cooled caustic through a mass transfer apparatus that cools and cleans the gas and releases the caustic and gas into a gas-liquid separation zone of the upper chamber. An alternative embodiment of the invention involves spatially separating the upper chamber from the other two chambers.

Abstract: A process for depolymerizing polymers by selective, partial oxidation at supercritical or near supercritical conditions for water and wherein supercritical water or water near supercritical conditions is used as a solvent and reforming agent, is used to produce relatively high yields of the monomers originally used to produce the polymers. The invention provides an environmentally friendly process for recycling polymeric waste materials to generate valuable polymer feedstock in a closed oxidation process which is free of hazardous stack emissions. The polymers which can be recycled in accordance with the process can include typical amounts of conventional additive and other impurities without significantly affecting the overall conversion.

Abstract: The invention relates to an improved apparatus and method for initiating and sustaining an oxidation reaction. A fuel, such as natural gas or hazardous waste, is introduced into a reaction zone within a pressurized containment vessel. A permeable liner is placed within the containment vessel and around the reaction zone. An oxidizer, preferably oxygen, is mixed with a carrier fluid, such as water, and the mixture is heated and pressurized to supercritical conditions of temperature and pressure. The supercritical oxidizer-carrier mix is introduced to the reaction zone gradually and uniformly, over a comparatively large area, by forcing it radially inward through the permeable liner and toward the reaction zone. A means and method for cooling the exhausted by-products and using them as a cleansing rinse are disclosed.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to a processor comprising means for mixing a process material with a process liquid (such as water) and forming an emulsion or slurry. Means is provided for pressuring and heating the slurry, and the slurry is then fed to means for quickly reducing the pressure to a relatively low value and further increasing the temperature. The rapid drop in pressure and increase in temperature causes components of the slurry to convert to volatile gases and separate from the remainder of the slurry which is removed from the processor in the form of solids. The gas is fed to one or more condensers which separate the gas into useful liquids such as various grades of oil.

Abstract: An air conditioning system for a motor crane includes a heating circuit and a refrigerating circuit. The heating circuit comprises a hydraulic motor, a hydraulic pump, a radiator and a valve mechanism causing a pressure difference in the hydraulic oil flowing therethrough. The refrigerating circuit includes a compressor connected to the hydraulic motor and a condenser having a fan for forcing air thereover. The heating circuit is at least partially disposed in an air path in which the condenser is disposed. When the hydraulic oil bypasses the valve mechanism, a control device turns the fan on if the refrigerating circuit is not operating, and the temperature of the hydraulic oil sensed by the sensor reaches a predetermined temperature.

Abstract: A combination filter and evaporator unit for use in small engine applications includes a filter member that is screw threadedly engaged to the evaporator unit to facilitate replacement of filter media as needed. The design of the unit constrains incoming oil to flow first through the filter media and then to an evaporation chamber. A central hub and a bottom wall of the evaporation chamber are directly heated by a heating element, and the evaporation chamber is closed by an imperforate lid so that heat loss is inhibited.

Abstract: An apparatus removes water from a liquid mixture which has formed in a compressed gas system. The apparatus includes a gas compressor having an inlet port for receiving low pressure gas to be compressed and a discharge port through which a stream of compressed gas flows. An aftercooler is disposed in fluid communication with the discharge port for cooling the compressed gas stream. A vessel collects any entrained liquid water and lubricant from the compressed gas stream. The vessel has a sump portion and a vent to an atmosphere external to the compressed air system. A heat exchanger heats the liquid mixture within the vessel to a predetermined temperature to vaporize the water. The water vapor exits the vessel through the vent and the lubricant remains in the sump portion of the vessel. A valve permits the separated lubricant to be drained from the sump portion of the vessel to a location external to the compressed air system.

Abstract: A device for collecting evaporated matter from a vat which first collects the evaporated matter and then condense the evaporated matter into a liquid which is recovered and recycled.

Abstract: The subject invention relates generally to a novel method of recycling gelatin-based encapsulation waste material and, more specifically, to a process for the recovery and purification of gelatin and softening agents therefrom. In the preferred embodiment, deionized water is added to the waste material thereby forming an aqueous solution of gelatin and glycerine dispersed within the remaining oil and residual active-ingredient components of the waste material. Extraction methods are employed under specific conditions to effect separation of the bottom aqueous phase from the upper oil phase. The lower phase is hot filtered to remove any remaining traces of oil or other contaminants and the filtrate is then charged to a concentration vessel adapted for vacuum distillation. The water solvent is thus removed under specific thermal and atmospheric conditions until the desired concentration of gelatin and glycerine is achieved.

Abstract: A novel process and related apparatus for removing common contaminants from used motor oil. Propane, butane or a similar solvent is mixed with the contaminated oil to form a solution. This solution is agitated and then given time to settle thus allowing gravitational separation of asphaltic pollutants. The solution is then percolated through a columned filter to remove heavy metallic contaminants and the solvent recovered by heating the solution.

Abstract: The invention comprises an apparatus and method for high pressure treatment of wastes without the addition of excess oxygen and without interference by corrosive deposits. Waste materials are suspended or dissolved in a processing fluid. The pressure of the fluid is raised to a pressure in the range of from about 70 psig to about 5,000 psig. A boiler is then used to heat the high pressure fluid to temperatures above the critical temperature. Solids within the boiler participate in fluidized bed particle scrubbing technology in order to minimize the fouling and corrosion occurring within the boilers during heating. From at least a portion of the vapors produced by the heating in the boiler, net energy output is produced. Useful byproducts can be produced from the vapors.

Abstract: A process and apparatus for treating contaminated water involving passing water containing contaminants as a stream through a filter to remove the contaminants and form a purified water stream, directing the purified water stream to an effluent discharge outlet and accumulating a portion of the purified water in a reservoir under pressure, preferably through action of a trapped air pocket in the reservoir, and regenerating the filter by using the purified water in the reservoir to back-flush the filter.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to a processor comprising means for mixing a process material with a process liquid (such as water) and forming an emulsion or slurry. Means is provided for pressuring and heating the slurry, and the slurry is then fed to means for quickly reducing the pressure to a relatively low value and further increasing the temperature. The rapid drop in pressure and increase in temperature causes volatile components of the slurry to convert to a gas and separate from the remainder of the slurry which is removed from the processor in the form of solids. The gas is fed to one or more condensers which separate the gas into useful liquids such as various grades of oil.

Abstract: The local reclamation system includes an accumulation tank for a soiled solution. A tank outlet valve selectively allows a flow of the solid soiled solution into the remainder of the system. A blend conduit leads from the outlet valve. An oxidizing supply selectively provides an oxidizing agent to said soiled solution downstream of the outlet valve in the blend conduit. A blend pump receives the soiled solution with oxidizing agent to promote the flow of the soiled solution through the system and a more uniformed disposal of the oxidizing agent throughout the solution. A six stage filter section selectively removes particulate matter. A biologic stage promotes a sterile reclaimed solution and a solution accumulator accumulates and stores the solution. Repeated injections of oxidizing agents occur before filter stage sections and pumps. The reclaimed solution can be reused or discharged without penalty.

Abstract: A process for the production of a durable granular or pelletized sludge product is disclosed whereby a minimal amount of high calcium oxide material is utilized for pathogenic stabilization, the resulting material being further processed through an agglomeration stage. A portion of the agglomerated material is further processed in a moisture reduction or drying stage and recycled back to the agglomeration stage for percent solids adjustment and promotion of agglomeration. An apparatus for performing the process is also disclosed.

Abstract: A system and process are provided for treatment of cyanide-containing waste to form a substantially detoxified reaction product. The system comprises a reaction vessel, a heat exchange conduit extending through the reaction vessel to provide a flow path for heat exchange fluid, a heating loop for circulating heat exchange fluid through the heat exchange conduit at a temperature sufficient to initiate hydrolysis of cyanides in cyanide-containing waste to form the substantially detoxified reaction product, a cooling loop for circulating heat exchange fluid through the heat exchange conduit at a temperature sufficient to cool the substantially detoxified reaction product to a discharge temperature, and an apparatus for diverting flow of heat exchange fluid from the heating loop to the cooling loop.

Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for manufacturing ultra-pure water, characterized in that a decarbonator/degassor and a reverse osmosis equipment for pretreatment of supply water are installed in the upper stream of a multiple effect evaporator. The present invention also provides a method for manufacturing ultra-pure water, characterized in that most of the carbonic groups dissolved in the supply water is degassed by a decarbonating/degassing treatment prior to introducing the water to the multiple effect evaporator, and that most of the scale components such as Ca.sup.++, SO.sub.4.sup.-- and Mg.sup.++ are also eliminated by a reverse osmosis treatment.

Abstract: In a treatment or processing or sewage sludge in the sense of recycling, where the sewage sludge is to begin with dried (T), subsequently converted (K) under anaerobic conditions at approximately 250.degree. to 350.degree. C. and finally is sintered at at least 1250.degree. C. in successive steps, it is proposed to perform all process steps including the conveyance of the commodity to be processed between the individual processing steps successively in continuous passage in a closed system. Only the vapors are removed in this system in the drying stage (T) and the conversion gases in the conversion stage (K) and they are condensed; the heat quantity contained in the flue gas generated during the sintering process (S) is utilized for heating to begin with the conversion stage (K) and after that the drying stage (T).

Abstract: A method of removing water from lubricants, coolants and the like consisting of the following described steps. Firstly, pass lubricants through a heater at a predetermined flow rate to decrease its viscosity. Secondly, pass the heated lubricants through a vertical separation vessel which agitates the lubricants such that water entrained in the lubricants is released as steam. Thirdly, recirculate the heated lubricants repeatedly through the separation vessel at a recirculation flow rate that exceeds by many times the flow rate through the heater, thereby improving the degree of separation of water from the lubricants with each pass through the separation vessel. Fourthly, draw lubricants periodically from the separation vessel as the flow rate through the heater permits.

Abstract: Apparatus for controlling the temperature of a mobile phase in a fluid chromatographic system are provided which comprise both an ingoing capillary connected to an inlet of a column and an outgoing capillary connected an outlet of the column. A portion of the ingoing capillary and a portion of the outgoing capillary are arranged in thermal contact with each other to form a contact region wherein heat exchange can occur. In preferred embodiments, liquid leaving the column at an elevated temperature loses a portion of its heat, thus avoiding or at least substantially reducing the transfer of heat to the detector. At the same time, liquid flowing to the column is pre-heated by the liquid leaving the column so that the heating power required for bringing the mobile phase to the desired temperature is reduced as compared with prior art devices.

Abstract: A high pressure/vacuum operated apparatus for sewage and mud disposal includes a crossed duct having four terminals; and a movable tubular filter separably engaged with one terminal of the crossed duct with a flexible tube connected thereto; and an instant germicidal unit coupled to the flexible tube at one end and to a reservoir tank at the other which is associated with a vaccum pump and has an ultrasonic oscillator disposed therein for filtering heavy metal substance; and a reciprocally operated push stick which can detach the mud compressed into a solid block from the movable filter; a sewage discharge pipe connected to the upper terminal of the crossed duct via an inlet valve; one other terminal of the crossed duct being attached with a cylinder having a hydraulically operated piston reciprocally moved in the crossed duct, compressing the sewage mud against the movable tubular filter; a cleaning valve secured to the lower terminal; a filter plate made of high desity concrete or ceramics being secured to

Abstract: A catalyst for oxidizing aqueous organic contaminants includes about 5 wt % to about 20 wt % noble metal crystallites selected from the group consisting of platinum, palladium, ruthenium, iridium, and combinations thereof deposited on a high surface area catalyst support. The crystallites are about 100 .ANG. or smaller. A system for catalytically oxidizing aqueous organic contaminants has a catalyst bed containing such a catalyst, means for heating a reactor feed stream to a desired reaction temperature, means oxygenating the feed stream, and a phase separator for separating gaseous reaction products from a reactor effluent stream.

Abstract: The "PURIFIED COFFEE AND ICE WATER DISPENSER" replaces the standard kitchen sink taps. The tap water is directed to a flow director at the base of the spout which adjusts to allow the flow to either run trough a water filter or through the spout directly into the sink. When the tap water is directed through the water filter it fills a pre-heated water reservoir depending on the direction the spout is moved, and is drawn by opening the hot water or cold water spout. Coffee is drawn by adjusting a regulator valve which sends the hot water through a coffee filter and out the hot water spout. The reservoirs are cooled and heated elecrically with thermostats.

Abstract: Apparatus for composting biological waste material, comprising a screen for separating the waste material into solids and liquids, a sludge outlet for adding sludge to the solids to form a mixture therewith and a compacting section for compacting the mixture. Further sludge is mixed with the compacted mixture to form a further mixture therewith, which is composted in a composter. The liquid separated from the biological waste is screened to remove fine solids and the fine solids are added to the first-mentioned mixture prior to the compacting thereof, the liquid being added to the further mixture in the composting section.

Abstract: According to the process the sludge is homogenized and heated to 30.degree.-60.degree. C. temperature. The heated sludge is circulated under 2-4 bar overpressure, and its temperature is raised to about 130.degree.-150.degree. C. in 1-2 sec by conducting steam of 130.degree.-151.degree. C. and 2-4 bar pressure directly into the sludge, thus granulation is brought about in the sludge. The sludge of increased temperature--while its temperature and pressure maintained--is further circulated for about 60-300 sec. Then, the sludge is adiabatically expanded in 1-2 sec by reducing the pressure to about 0.01-0.02 bar. The expanded sludge is separated to water, fat containing water and solid impurity and wet solid phase containing protein.It is characteristic to the apparatus that it is provided with device for heating the sludge, and pipe (18) for passing on the heated sludge connected with the heating unit (5) where an expansion valve is built in.

Abstract: A device that reclaims industrial fluids. Solid contaminants are removed from the liquid being reclaimed by a series of increasingly fine filter elements positioned within a filter housing. The substantially solid contaminant-free fluid then enters an evaporation chamber having a design that constrains the fluid to form a thin film atop an evaporation plate at the bottom of the chamber to facilitate evaporation of volatile contaminants. Insert members are positioned within the evaporation chamber to increase the surface area of the thin film to further enhance the removal of the volatile contaminants. The temperature and pressure of the evaporation chamber is controlled by a heating element that is under the control of a temperature sensor. Evaporated volatile contaminants escape the evaporation chamber through a port formed in the head that closes the device. Latches are used to secure the head in the absence of conventional nuts and bolts, and the head screw threadedly engages the evaporation plate.

Abstract: Removing radioactive contaminants from liquid hazardous material such as oil, includes recirculating the material between a processing tank and a filter medium. The material is heated to increase viscosity during the circulation through the tank and filters. Chemicals including chelating agents are added to enhance the removal of the radioactive elements. Water is added to the processing tank or upstream, in a settling tank, to effect a water wash of the liquid hazardous material. A pre-filter stage upstream of the settling tank is followed by a mid-range filter stage in the recirculation loop with the main processing tank. A finishing filter stage is in the outlet from the main processing tank.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of removing metals from metal-charged waste sludges from industry, clarification plants, or the like, in which the sludges are treated with a solvent for the metals, the resulting solution is separated from the undissolved substances and worked up to yield the metals, and the remaining solids are dumped as safe waste materials or used as fertilizers. The invention also relates to an apparatus for carrying out this working-up method, characterized by a mixing apparatus for mixing the solvent and the sludge which is to be treated, a residence zone, an adjoining apparatus for separating the metal-charged solvent from the insoluble fraction, and optionally an apparatus for drying the insoluble fraction. Metal sludges can be continuously worked up, if desired, in the apparatus according to the invention.

Abstract: A system is disclosed for reducing the level of minor amounts of volatile organic contaminants, from contaminated water, which includes pump means to feed water from the body of contaminated water to the system, a plurality of heating means to raise the temperature of the water, a contact vessel to contact the heated water with gas to strip the volatile contaminants from the water, gas supply means to provide stripping gas to the vessel, and means to pass the removed volatile contaminants to a furnace for disposal by combustion.

Abstract: The invention is directed to an apparatus and method for transforming a sterile pyrogen-free liquid into a substitution liquid using an exchanger. The method includes the steps of flowing first and second liquids over opposite sides of a semipermeable membrane, the first liquid being sterile and pyrogen-free. Both liquids contain at least some electrolytes of blood including at least a buffer agent or a precursor of a buffer agent. At least some of the electrolytes have different concentrations in the two liquids. When purifying blood by hemodiafiltration, this method has the particular advantage that, rather than discarding the second liquid, it can be used for hemodiafiltration.

Abstract: An effluent recycling sanitation system. A first container forms a placid waste separator connected in series to a second container forming an effluent recycling chamber. Both containers are located below ground and are formed from reinforced concrete having a fiberglass liner separated by insulation preventing outward flow of heat energy. The first container is sealed relative to the atmosphere providing for biodegradation of incoming sewage with a vertically extending screen allowing only liquid sewage to flow outwardly into the second container. An air inlet tube extends into the second container allowing fresh air to move into the container with gases then being withdrawn via a second tube extending out of the second container and powered by an air turbine. A solar converter plus auxiliary heat coils located within the second container rinse the temperature within the second container. Liquid within the second container is evaporated via the outlet tube.

Abstract: The invention relates to an improved continuous countercurrent chromatography apparatus. The invention further relates to an improved method of countercurrent chromatography comprises filling a separation column with a first solvent, introducing into the column a sample solute to be separated, continuously pumping a second solvent into the column, the second solvent being substantially immiscible with the first solvent, maintaining the solvent flowing out of the column at a temperature effective to avoid clouding thereof, spectrophotometrically monitoring the temperature-maintained separating fractions flowing out of the column, and applying back-pressure to the solvent flowing into and out of the monitor.

Abstract: The self-cleaning filter particularly for high-viscosity pasty fluids has a fixed body having a substantially cylindrical elongated chamber in which a filtration drum is supported and defines a central region, at one end of which there is an inlet for the fluid to be filtered, and an outer annular region, at the other end of which there is a duct for the removal of the filtered fluid; a shaft is axially supported and rotationally actuated in the chamber and has a helical crest the profile whereof is suitable for grazing the inner surface of the drum to remove therefrom the impurities which are present and is suitable for pushing the fluid toward an impurity discharge duct arranged at the other end of the chamber, the constant cleaning of the drum being suitable for keeping constant the pressure drop on the filter.

Abstract: A filter for continuous filtration of a liquid includes conventionally a vessel having a center shaft on which is arranged at least one rotating filter element defining an inner space for liquid obtained at filtration. Further there is provided a washing device for washing of material deposited on the filter element, a connection between said inner space and outlet means from said vessel and a separator connected to said outlet and adapted for separating filtrate and gas. Means is provided outside said vessel for generating an overpressure in the gas space of the vessel and a lower pressure in the interior of the filter element at least corresponding to the evaporating temperature of the filtrated liquid for evaporation of the liquid in the separator. The separator is provided with a cooling device for cooling the separated gas and an outlet for condensate obtained at cooling.

Abstract: There is provided a method and apparatus for treating water used in heat exchange operations such as boilers wherein the water is subjected to a magnetic conditioning prior to being used in the heat exchange operation and is subsequently filtered to remove larger particles while permitting smaller particles to remain in suspension.

Abstract: A field-portable supercritical fluid extraction apparatus uses an SFE solvent delivery means, SFE solvent cooling means, and reciprocating high pressure liquid chromatography pump having a cooled pumphead. A solid matrix sample is contained within an extraction cell. The SFE solvent is preheated in the extraction cell oven before it is introduced into the extraction cell. After contact with the solid matrix the extraction effluent passes through a heated restriction tube before passing into a collection flask assembly having a collection solvent tube and a collection solvent condenser to condense collection solvent vapors entrained by escaping SFE solvent. The analytes are collected in the collection solvent. The SFE solvent cooling means, pumphead and collection solvent condenser are all cooled by the combination of a single stage thermoelectric device, liquid-cooled heat exchanger and convective heat sink.

Abstract: Improved techniques are provided for separating mixtures of materials having different densities. The apparatus of the present invention is well suited for separating oil from water, and includes a separation tank defining a cylindrical water storage chamber and a frustroconical separation chamber spaced above an adjoining the water storage chamber. Fluid is input to the separation tank at the level of the oil/water interface. An oil leg is spaced above the separation chamber, and an adjustable oil overflow unit is provided adjacent the oil outlet for selectively varying the head pressure of oil in the oil leg. A water leg is provided in parallel with the separation tank, and an adjustable water overflow unit is provided adjacent the water outlet for selectively varying the head pressure of water in the water leg. The adjustable overflow units allow the head pressure in the oil leg relative to the head pressure in the water leg to maintain the interface within the upper portion of the separation chamber.

Abstract: The invention relates to bacteriostatic water and to a method of producing bacteriostatic water, and is characterized by the steps: a) heating unprocessed water to produce primary water; b) filtering the primary water in order to remove bacteria and dust to produce secondary water; and c) exposing the secondary water to oxygen gas to produce bacteriostatic water. In this invention, oxygen gas is used not only as a biostatic treating agent, but also as an aerosol propellant. The container is filled with the product water, on the product water is bacteriostatically stable for an extended period.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for processing an influent liquid including at least a solvent and non-volatile impurities by combining the liquid with a vapor to produce a precipitated sludge is disclosed. The influent liquid is introduced into a wet well. A saturated, water containing reflux and a precipitated sludge are transferred to the well from a reactor. The saturated, water containing reflux precipitated sludge and influent liquid are mixed to form a mixture of saturated, water containing reflux and precipitated sludge. The saturated, water containing reflux is then transferred to the reactor and contacted with a vapor to form the precipitated sludge. The vapor is then discharged from the reactor, and the precipitated sludge is discharged from the wet well.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to an ultrapure water producing system having a primary ultrapure water system including a pretreatment process into which raw water is fed, and a primary ultrapure water device connected to the outlet of the pretreatment process. A reservoir is connected to the outlet of the primary ultrapure water device. A secondary ultrapure water system includes a pump having an inlet connected to the reservoir, a polisher connected to the outlet of the pump, and first use point connected to the outlet of the polisher and to the reservoir. A branch line is connected to the outlet of the polisher and has a heating and deaerating part connected thereto, and a high-temperature second use point is connected to the outlet of the heating and deaerating part.

Abstract: A fluid filter assembly comprises a heater and a filter in series fluid flow relationship. A means for bypassing a fluid around the heater and the filter is provided which comprises ducts and a relief valve interposed between them. In normal operation the relief valve is closed so all the fluid flows through the heater and the filter. The fluid and any liquid impurities entrained therein are heated by the heater prior to passing through the filter. At low temperatures the heater cannot normally provide sufficient heat to prevent solidification of the liquid impurities entrained within the fluid which block the filter. The relief valve then opens to allow a proportion of fluid to flow through the bypass so a reduced amount of fluid flows through the heater and the filter. The heater heats the reduced flow of fluid therethrough to a temperature sufficiently high to melt the solidified liquid impurities blocking the filter.

Abstract: A system for cleaning solids contaminated with solvent-soluble contaminants. The system comprises the use of at least two successive cleaning zones, each of which includes a slurry stage and a centrifuge separation stage, wherein the solids to be cleaned and the solvent used for cleaning flow in countercurrent relationship to each other between the successive zones.

Abstract: An apparatus for the treatment of diatomite, especially in a filtration sludge for disposal in a landfill or reuse as a filtration aid, having a flow dryer followed by a cyclone and filter separator. The dry product is then subjected to treatment in a high-temperature treatment chamber and a cyclonic separator separates 80% of the solids from the gas. These solids are quenched and then cooled. The balance of the solids in the gas stream are fed as the drying gas to the flow through dryer after water injection cooling to reduce the temperature of the hot gas to a temperature at below that which organics are volatilized in the dryer.

Abstract: A method for introducing pure hot-spring water directly transported from a spa into baths of a spa house and for maintaining the purity and the freshness of the introduced water. Pure hot-spring water directly transported from a spa by a transportation means is supplied into an underground reservoir. The supplied water is pumped by means of a primary pump, then warmed to a certain temperature by means of a first heat exchanger utilizing warm circulating water warmed by a boiler. The warmed hot-spring water is stored in a storage tank. When the water level in a hot-spring water bath has lowered, hot-spring water is pumped from the storage tank into the bath by means of a secondary pump. When the hot-spring water in the bath is contaminated, the hot-spring water is circulated in such a manner that the water is first passed through a filter for hot-spring water to have the contamination contained therein removed, then returned to the bath.

Abstract: A process and apparatus for reducing sludges, especially those sludges containing heavy metals and generated in electroplating, to a solid state where the toxic constituents of the waste are prevented from leaching. The process involves mixing a metallic soap with the sludge and then using low-temperature induction heating to form coacervate bonds that encapsulate the toxic waste particles in a pumice-like matrix. The apparatus allows a small amount of metallic soap to be thoroughly mixed through sludge and a continuous ribbon of the resulting putty-like waste to be fed into a series of microwave drying ovens and evacuation chambers. After the drying and dewatering sequences, the apparatus extrudes a pumice-like solid suitable for disposal in accordance with EPA regulations.

Abstract: A field-portable supercritical fluid extraction apparatus uses an SFE solvent delivery means, SFE solvent cooling means, and reciprocating high pressure liquid chromatography pump having a cooled pumphead. A solid matrix sample is contained within an extraction cell. The SFE solvent is preheated in the extraction cell oven before it is introduced into the extraction cell. After contact with the solid matrix the extraction effluent passes through a heated restriction tube before passing into a collection flask assembly having a collection solvent tube and a collection solvent condenser to condense collection solvent vapors entrained by escaping SFE solvent. The analytes are collected in the collection solvent. The SFE solvent cooling means, pumphead and collection solvent condenser are all cooled by the combination of a single stage thermoelectric device, liquid-cooled heat exchanger and convective heat sink.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for disposing of fecal matter from a toilet system in a fast moving vehicle during travel of the vehicle. The liquid components of the fecal matter are dehydrated to recover water. The water is disposed of by either discharging the water to the environment of the vehicle or by re-using the water in systems of the vehicle. The remainder of the fecal matter is introduced into a collection vessel of in the vehicle.

Abstract: A method for rapid and efficient cleaning of an internal combustion engine cooling system includes forcing the coolant liquid from the cooling system to the exterior of that system, driving the coolant liquid from the cooling system to the exterior of that system, treating the coolant liquid in a zone or zones outside the cooling system, such treating including effecting precipitation of anions and cations, in the coolant liquid to produce contaminant particulate and removing contaminant particule from the coolant liquid, and returning the treated coolant liquid to the cooling system.

Abstract: A water filtering, sterilizing and heating apparatus is provided. The apparatus includes filter tank provided with activated carbon therein, to filter bacteria, miscellaneous impurities and odor in water. The output of the filter is coupled to a microwave oscillator to vibrate and churn the water coming from the filter tank. The water from the microwave oscillator is coupled to an ultraviolet light sterilizing tank having an ultraviolet lamp disposed vertically in the center thereof. A storage tank is provided to receive and store the water coming from the ultraviolet light sterilzing tank. The fluid level in the storage tank is maintained by automatically controlling the passage of water thereto by means of an electromagnetic valve actuated by a micro switch responsive to displacement of a float. The temperature of the stored water being kept at a preset temperature by means of a heater and a temperature sensor.