Abstract: An electrolytically activated, microcidal aqueous solution is disclosed which is used in the elimination and control of biofilm in dental unit water lines. The solution has a pH between 6.75 and 10 with microcidal as well as anti-oxidising, dispersing and surfactant properties, rendering the solution bio-compatible and non-corrosive, as well as capable of eliminating biofilm in dental unit water lines, while simultaneously dispersing and dislodging the biofilm from the water lines so as reduce the micro-organisms in the dental water to a predetermined level.

Abstract: A method to treat ballast water comprises injecting ozone into water loading into a sea faring vessel prior to charging the water into a ballast tank; and charging the ozone injected water into the ballast tank. A system for treating ballast water comprises a sea faring vessel including at least one ballast tank; an ozone generator that generates ozone, a ballast water conduit that uptakes water through a loading port of a sea faring vessel and conducts the water to load the ballast tank; and an ozone feed line that injects ozone from the generator into water in the conduit at an injection point located upstream to an intersection of the conduit with the ballast tank.

Abstract: A method for treating a recirculating water system which comprises introducing into said water system a multifunctional, multilayer tablet, wherein the multilayer tablet comprises a fast dissolving layer and a slow dissolving layer, wherein said fast dissolving layer releases a combination of active ingredients including a member selected from the group consisting of lithium hypochlorite, calcium hypochlorite, trichloroisocyanuric acid (TCCA), anhydrous sodium dichloroisocyanurate, sodium persulfate, potassium persulfate, potassium monopersulfate, sodium monopersulfate, and mixtures thereof, and at least one of a clarifier, chelating agent, sequesterant, algaestat, water softener, algaecide, corrosion inhibitor, scale inhibitor, flocculent, disintegrant, dispersant, colorant, dissolution control agent, fragrance, or surfactant and, wherein said slow dissolving layer includes a member selected from the group consisting of trichloroisocyanuric acid (TCCA), calcium hypochlorite, 1,3-dichloro-5,5-dimethylhydantoi

Abstract: Animal waste such as fecal material from swine, chicken, turkey, and cattle is converted into useful forms such as fertilizer, other types of soil builders, and even nutrient feed additives. Devices, systems, and methods are provided that allow economical conversion and in many instances, alleviate the production and release of undesirable gases such as sulfide and ammonia. In one embodiment, undesirable anaerobic and facultative anaerobic bacteria are killed at a greater rate than desirable soil compatible aerobic bacteria. The use of low temperature killing diminishes off gassing commonly associated with other techniques, and the use of gas trapping additives such as zeolites provides enhanced soil building qualities such as slow release of nitrogen and slow release of moisture to soil. The methods allow convenient adjustment of composition, allowing conversion of waste into tailored designer fertilizer suited for particular soils.

Abstract: A water supply sub-system for connection to a main water supply system includes a storage tank having an inlet with a flow control valve for connection to the main water supply system. The sub-system may be disconnected from the main system and configured as a closed system for disinfecting the sub-system. An outlet line connects the storage tank to a pump that pumps water from the tank to a sub-system supply line. One or more branch connections may connect the sub-system supply line to high-demand water using devices, such as dialysis machines. The supply line may be a feedback loop. A shunt feedback loop parallel to the feedback loop of the supply line has a pressure control valve that regulates pressure in the supply line feedback loop. A filtration device may also be included to ensure the purity of the water circulating through the sub-system.

Abstract: In addition to health implications, trihalomethanes (THMs) poses a challenge to the electronic industry where such impurities cannot be tolerated. A process is provided for removing THMs from high-purity water used in the electronic industry. The method of the invention comprises contacting the high-purity water with a membrane degassifier, preferably operating at a temperature exceeding 45° C.

Abstract: By treating potable water at a temperature of at least 230° C. (446° F.) and at a pressure at least equal to the pressure of saturated steam at said temperature, can produce pyrogen-free water using treatment times of 0.05 to 5 seconds or less. The addition of an oxidant, in the form of a gas, a liquid, or a solid, further decreases the required treatment time to less than 0.05 second. The reduction n equipment size achieved with this rapid treatment time allows the utilization of treatment units small enough to be easily transported to remote locations or installed in the restricted space environment existing in ships and submarines.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for turbulently exposing water flowing through a water system to a plurality of electrodes of an ion generator and having a self-contained tank through which water flows is provided with an inlet pipe that directs water flow between the electrodes. A tank cover serves as a non-electrical conducting head for the plurality of electrodes that extend downwardly from the underside of the cover. The electrodes are functionally configured to maximize water flow between them. Following the flow of water between the electrodes, a double vortex of water flow is created along one wall of the tank. A sight glass allows for visualization of the container contents, and in particular electrode wastage or wear, during operation.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the use of deactivatable biocides in cooling water systems of industrial processes that require dissipation of heat. The present invention relates to methods of inhibiting growth and reproduction of microorganisms in the cooling water comprising adding the deactivatable biocides to the cooling water and irreversibly deactivating the deactivatable biocides before or upon disposal of the cooling water.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for recovering wastewater from laundry operations. A substantially closed loop series of tanks, conduits and pumps hold and transfer water output from a wash machine through a series of filters, including a lint pulloff filter, a multimedia pressure filter, a clay filter, and a carbon filter. The water is ozonated to coagulate suspended solids and to disinfect and is subjected to ultraviolet light to disinfect and to reduce residual ozone.

Abstract: An isocyanurate stabilizer to the chlorinated pool water includes a tablet of chemically pure isocyanuric acid soluble in the pool water before a chlorinated tablets are added into the pool water.

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.

Abstract: The present invention relates to gaseous discharge and applied biotechnology. In particularly, the present invention relates to a method for killing organisms in the course of conveying ballast water in ship, comprising applying a voltage with frequency of 400-40000 Hz between the anode electrode and the cathode electrode of the free radical generator, thereby forming strong ionization discharge of electric field strength of 250-600 Td between the anode electrode and the cathode electrode, ionizing, dissociating, and exciting O2 and H2O, or O2, processing into active particles comprising O3, OH+and HO2, dissolving excitately to obtain free radical solution mainly consisted of OH+, adding the free radical solution to conveying pipeline of ballast water, conveying for 2-20 s in the pipeline, thereby obtaining killing organisms of ballast water selected from the group consisted of bacteria, single cell alga, and protozoan.

Abstract: A filter medium capable of removing microorganisms from a fluid such as water. The filter medium includes particles of activated carbon, particles of a substantially insoluble inorganic material having an isoelectric point greater than the fluid being filtered. A low melt index binder, preferably with a melt index of less than about 1 gram per 10 minutes, binds the particles of activated carbon and particles of inorganic material, such that the binder will become tacky at elevated temperatures without becoming sufficiently liquid to substantially wet the particles of activated carbon and inorganic material. An antimicrobial material can be incorporated into the filter to prevent biofilm growth.

Abstract: A method and a device for the restriction of blooms of micro-organisms in an aqueous system are described. A smaller portion of the body of water in the system is subjected to a radiation treatment, preferably a UV-treatment, whereupon the treated quantity of water is returned to the aqueous system. The UV radiation will induce activation of latent viruses, and when these are returned to the water system, micro-organisms in this system will be killed or inactivated, and new micro-organisms will not be formed.

Abstract: Cationic phthalocyanine and/or porphyins salts are used as photosterilising agents for microbiologically contaminated waters, particularly for inactivating Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, yeasts, micoplasmas and parasites. Synergistic action for water photosterilisation by the simultaneous use of the cationic phthalocyanine salt and a porphyrin molecule, which performs its photosterilising action by a mechanism identical with that typical of phthalocyanines, and whose visible light absorption spectrum efficiently complements the absorption of phthalocyanines. The photosterilising salts can be added to the water as a solution, or as a powder or tablet.

Abstract: A water treatment agent and method of treating water to inhibit, reduce, or prevent the formation of algae and bacteria in a water body. The water treatment agent may include copper sulfate penta-hydrate and/or silver, di-sodium ethylene di-amine tetra-acetic acid dihydrate, a scale inhibitor, a shocking agent and a buffer agent. For instance, the treatment agent may include a composition of copper sulfate pentahydrate, di-sodium ethylene di-amine tetra-acetic acid, monopotassium phosphate or sulfuric acid, and potassium monopersulfate and 1-hydroxyethylidene-1,1-diphosphonic acid.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for the treatment of water pools, preferably fresh or salt water in basins of any size, waters in conduits for civil and industrial use, and ballast waters in the maritime practice. Aim of the invention is to remove biological contamination by plant and animal organisms. Particularly, this method exploits thebiocidal properties of some of the menadione derivatives.

Abstract: A continuous processing apparatus includes a dissolution section for dissolving liquid carbon dioxide into a continuously supplied liquid-form raw material, and a processing section for holding the liquid-form raw material with liquid carbon dioxide dissolved therein under predetermined temperature and pressure to thereby transform carbon dioxide into a supercritical or subcritical state. Thus, bacteria, enzyme and the like contained in the liquid-form raw material can be effectively killed or decreased.

Abstract: A method of killing aquatic species in water includes containing the water with the aquatic species therein within a conduit; pressurizing the water; and transferring gas to the water to thereby supersaturate the water with dissolved gas such that &Dgr;P is greater than zero.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method and apparatus that can extend the normal storage period of fluids that naturally support microbiological growth. The method and device uses a two-stage method whereby certain microorganisms of a predetermined size (0.45 microns) are initially filtered out whereas other, smaller, microorganisms pass through the selected filter and are inactivated using other methods such as mild heat, electromagnetic (non-ionizing) waves, or chemical methods. This method improves will allow more practical commercial production runtimes without any negative impact on the sterility of the fluid in question.

Abstract: Technology is provided for treating recirculating water in a system to control algae in, for example, a cooling water, an evaporative condenser, a heat exchanger, or a decorative fountain. A solid composition comprising terbuthylazine dispersed in polyethylene glycol is contacted with recirculating water. The polyethylene glycol slowly dissolves, and the terbuthylazine is delivered into the water. The composition is preferably prepared by dispersing the terbuthylazine in molten polyethylene glycol followed by molding and solidifying. A preferred polyethylene glycol has an average molecular weight of about 8,000. The system can accomplish addition of terbuthylazine to recirculated water without the need for a dosing pump and without exposure of operating personnel to terbuthylazine.

Abstract: A water purification system for a swimming pool, pond, aquatic mammal tank, spa or fountain, which is simple to operate, low in maintenance, and highly reliable. The system takes advantage of synergistic benefits derived from the combination of ozonation and electrolytic chlorination in the same system. Combining both of the technologies of Ozonation and Electrolysis allows as in-site production of at least one of chlorine dioxide that is used as a disinfectant agent for treating water reservoirs.

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.

Abstract: The invention includes methods of inhibiting microbial growth in a well. A packing material containing a mixture of a first material and an antimicrobial agent is provided to at least partially fill a well bore. One or more access tubes are provided in an annular space around a casing within the well bore. The access tubes have a first terminal opening located at or above a ground surface and have a length that extends from the first terminal opening at least part of the depth of the well bore. The access tubes have a second terminal opening located within the well bore. An antimicrobial material is supplied into the well bore through the first terminal opening of the access tubes. The invention also includes well constructs.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of inhibiting the growth of killing algae, bacteria, yeast and/or fungi in a recirculating water system which comprises adding to the water a polymeric biguanide and an adjuvant of the Formula (1) or a salt thereof: wherein: R1 is an optionally substituted C8 to C12 or C18 to C22 alkyl group; and R2 and R3 each independently is H or optionally substituted C1-4-alkyl.

Abstract: A method for monitoring and adjusting the level of free chlorine in an aqueous fluid is described. In the described method, first aqueous fluid (50) substantially free of free chlorine is introduced into a suitable mixing vessel (26) wherein it contacts a solid chemical material that is a source of free chlorine and chloride ion. Second aqueous fluid (58) containing free chlorine and chloride ion is removed from the mixing vessel and forwarded to a holding tank (10). The chloride ion concentration of second aqueous fluid in the holding tank is measured by a chloride ion specific sensor in probe housing (22), which sensor is in electrical contact with microprocessor (30). Microprocessor (30), in response to the chloride ion measurement, sends an output signal to valve control means 44, which if necessary increases or decreases the flow of first aqueous fluid into mixing vessel (26). Second aqueous fluid in holding tank (10) is forwarded by pump means (20) to the point of application.

Abstract: A method for suppressing the growth of mycobacteria associated with hypersensitivity pneumonitis, in particular Mycobacterium immunogenum, in metalworking fluids is described. The method uses antimicrobial or biocidal compositions which include a metal complex comprising disodium monocopper (II) citrate and an isothiazolone mixture preferably comprising 5-chloro-2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one 2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one. Also described are methods for detecting and identifying the mycobacteria.

Abstract: A method for reducing sludge viscosity of a sewage sludge having a solids concentration of at least 10% (w/w). The method comprises the steps of increasing the pH of the sludge to 9.5-12.5%, at least one step selected from subjecting the sludge to a holding step of at least one day and adding inorganic or organic chemicals to facilitate viscosity reduction, followed by incubating the sludge at temperature up to 100° C., and subjecting the sludge to a shearing or disintegration step. The method provides sludge, especially concentrated sludge, that is more readily pumped or transported.

Abstract: Contaminated water is disinfected by admixture of a highly reactive gas stream containing ions of oxygen and nitrogen, formed by exposure of air to short-wavelength ultraviolet radiation, and of chlorine, formed by electrolysis of a brine solution. Solids removal can be accomplished by electrophoresis in the same unit employed for electrolysis of brine to release chlorine, or in a separate unit.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for producing an essentially chlorite-free, stable, aqueous chlorine-oxygen solution. Said method comprises the following steps: (1) a hydrogen sulfate compound is dissolved in water, (2) an acid is added to the aqueous solution containing hydrogen sulfate in such a quantity that the pH value in the target final product in the form of the essentially chlorite-free, stable, aqueous chlorine-oxygen solution is maintained between approximately 3 and 5; (3) a peroxide compound is added; and (4) an aqueous chlorite solution is added dropwise in a quantity of between approximately 60 and 90 mole %, especially between 70 and 80 mole %, of chlorite, in relation to the concentration of peroxide compound. The invention also relates to the chlorine-oxygen solutions which can be obtained by means of said method.

Abstract: This invention is directed to processes designed to recover water used in certain aspects of the processing of poultry, treat the recovered water to remove solids, fats, oils and greases, animal proteins and pathogenic organisms and to reuse the treated water for poultry processing operations. Although the reuse points will vary from plant to plant depending upon specific water consumption volumes, type of processing operations conducted by the facility and regulatory requirements and approvals, there are a number of reuse points which are preferred based upon treated water quality requirements, material balances relating to the capacity to recover process streams and the consumption volumes at the identified reuse points, and source waters that have been shown to have the least total contaminant loading.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for turbulently exposing water flowing through a water system to a plurality of electrodes of an ion generator and having a self-contained tank through which water flows is provided with an inlet pipe that directs water flow between the electrodes. A tank cover serves as a non-electrical conducting head for the plurality of electrodes that extend downwardly from the underside of the cover. The electrodes are functionally configured to maximize water flow between them. Following the flow of water between the electrodes, a double vortex of water flow is created along one wall of the tank. A sight glass allows for visualization of the container contents, and in particular electrode wastage or wear, during operation.

Abstract: A dendrimer complex comprising a dendrimer and an antimicrobial agent with the dendrimer complex placeable directly into a fluid to inhibit growth of microbes or rid the fluid of microbes. In a further embodiment of the invention the dendrimer complex is secured to a carrier, which is placed in a body of fluid and allowed to dispense the antimicrobial agent into the fluid. Once the antimicrobial agent is dispensed, the dendrimer complex can be removed and recycled to add functional groups to the dendrimer so that the dendrimer can be reused.

Abstract: Water treatment systems or assemblies are normally tested after construction, at least for leaks, prior to shipping or storage. Pressure testing with a gas is hazardous, so testing with water is a standard method. After testing, the water is displaced from the system by draining or gas phase flushing. It is nearly impossible to remove all of the water from the system or assembly. This remaining water provides an environment for biological growth which contaminates the system or assembly over time. The purpose of this invention is to eliminate or minimize this biological contamination by adding a biocidal agent to the system or assembly before sealing it for shipment or storage.

Abstract: A composition for disinfecting contaminated drinking water. The composition can include a disinfecting agent for disinfecting or sanitizing the water and a masking agent for masking or minimizing undesired characteristics of the disinfecting agent, such as taste and odor. The disinfecting agent can be a halogen-based disinfecting agent, such as a chlorine-based disinfecting agent. The masking agent can be a chlorine-compatible masking agent or flavorant, such as a citrus fruit derived flavor. The composition can also include a substrate. The substrate can be a clay, zeolite, water-soluble carrier, water-insoluble carrier, or mixtures thereof. The flavorant can be loaded onto the substrate. The composition can include other components, such as a primary coagulant, a coagulant aid, a bridging flocculant, a polymeric material, an alkali agent, an autocatalytic oxidant, and mixtures thereof.

Abstract: A water treating system utilizes antimicrobial sand filter for killing bacteria and preventing microbial growth. Said antimicrobial sand filter consists of organic quaternary ammonium salt and inorganic metal compound.

Abstract: A desalination system for removing at least a substantial amount of salt from a saltwater. In at least one embodiment, the desalination system may inject the saltwater with one or more ionized gases for removing contaminants from the saltwater. The desalination system may include one or more ionized gas generators for generating one or more ionized gases to be mixed with the saltwater. The desalination system may inject a disinfectant into the saltwater to disinfect the saltwater. The desalination system may generate one or more disinfectants from saltwater using a disinfectant generator. In at least one embodiment, the disinfectant generator may separate disinfectants from saltwater using electrolysis.

Abstract: Installation for the removal and the deactivation of organisms in the ballast water, with the following characteristic features:

Abstract: A process for treating liquid septage and other biosolids having the steps of placing a known amount of liquid septage in a tank, mixing in a sufficient quantity of alkaline material to raise the pH to a desired level, flocculating the septage, storing the pH adjusted septage for a predetermined period of time, thickening the septage, de-watering the septage, and pasteurizing the resultant liquid effluent and de-watered solids cake. The process for treating liquid septage and biosolids disclosed by the current invention meets the Class A vector attractant reduction and pathogen reduction requirements mandated by the U.S. EPA. The end product of septage and other biosolids treated using the process disclosed by the current invention can be sold as fertilizer, and utilized without any additional permits.

Abstract: According to the present invention a new device is provided for preparing biocide solutions of constant concentrations. More specifically, solid biocide is dissolved, in a controlled and monitored way, to provide solutions, all having the same and constant dose of biocide per volume. The new device overcomes the main disadvantage of the existing solid-biocide feeders, namely the decrease in the biocide concentration with time due to the gradual depletion of solid biocide in the feed container.

Abstract: This invention is directed to a chlorinator system useful for disinfecting water. This invention is especially useful for controlling the addition of a chlorine source to disinfect a drinking water supply which is situated at a remote location wherein electricity is unavailable.

Abstract: A biocidal compsition includes, in combination, poly(texamethylene) biguanide, didecydimethylammonium chloride a homogenising agent and a flocculating agent. The biocidal composition is used to treat water to control microorganisms.

Abstract: A method for removing biofilm from, and/or for preventing biofilm from forming on, an interior surface of a conduit that receives a supply of water, is performed by disabling the supply of water to the conduit, and passing an ozone-containing gas to the conduit. The ozone-containing gas can be generated from an oxygen-containing gas that is exposed to either a corona discharge or ultraviolet radiation. In an alternate embodiment, the water is disinfected by the ultraviolet radiation. The invention is especially suited for use with dental equipment.

Abstract: Apparatuses and methods of a ballast water treatment system are disclosed. The ballast water treatment system includes a control system and a ballast tank system. The control system controls the concentration of a biocide in the ballast tank system. In addition, the ballast water treatment system can be implemented in a vessel. The ballast water treatment system includes a control system, a biocide generation system, and a ballast tank system. The control system is capable of controlling the concentration of a biocide in the ballast tank system by controlling the amount of the biocide feed into the ballast tank system from the biocide generation system. Further, the ballast water treatment system involves methods for controlling organisms in ballast water of a vessel. A representative method includes providing the ballast water, and treating the ballast water with chlorine dioxide.

Abstract: The invention relates to a system and a method of using an automated blood cell separator to prepare a high-quality hemoglobin solution as the raw material for manufacture of hemoglobin-based therapeutic oxygen carriers, so-called “blood substitutes”. The method of isolating stroma-free hemoglobin comprises the steps of: separating the red blood cells from the starting solution; washing the red blood cells in wash solution; contacting the red blood cells with a hypotonic solution to produce stromata and a hemolysate containing hemoglobin having an ionic strength and separating the hemolysate from the stromata. Further, the invention relates to a method for preparing a chemically modified hemoglobin solution.

Abstract: Systems and methods for effectively and economically annihilating non-indigenous marine species and pathogenic bacteria in ship ballast water. A preferred embodiment comprises adding a killing agent to ballast water tanks and subsequently adding a reducing agent to the container. Oxygen is subsequently introduced to the ballast water to eliminate any excess reducing agent, and to ensure compliance with the dissolved oxygen discharge requirements of the receiving water.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a composite filter medium having a pH altering material that can raise the pH of an influent such that microbiological contaminants in the influent remain substantially negatively charged such that a positively charged medium within the composite filter medium can more effectively capture the microbiological contaminants.

Abstract: The water purifying apparatus can purify water at a high speed without using a chlorine family chemical substance. A glass container 31 with the both ends formed in a conical shape, in which negatively charged metallic silicon and smaller glass containers containing negatively charged metallic silicon are contained, is disposed at an end portion of a cylindrical storing unit 14 in which a motor 12 is stored. An end portion of the glass container 31 protrudes from the storing unit 14. The outer circumferential surface of the glass container 31 is coated with two copper plates 35a and 35a and an aluminum plate 35b which are aligned in a circumferential direction. The protruding end portion of the glass container 31 is dipped in water and is then rotated.

Abstract: A liquid dispensing apparatus for dispensing a sterile liquid comprises a container for storing the sterile liquid, a dispenser engaged with the container for expressing the sterile liquid from the container and a substrate of a porous, three-dimensional matrix within the container, the substrate providing an anti-microbial coating. The coating provides at least 4 square centimeters of surface area for each cubic centimeter of the interior volume of the container.