Abstract: Embodiments of the invention generally provide a containment system having integrated bubble tight-dampers. In another embodiment, the containment system includes an integral auto-scan mechanism disposed in the housing of the containment system so that a filter element, disposed in the housing, may be leak tested without accessing the interior of the housing. In yet another embodiment, a method for testing a filter disposed in a containment system includes challenging an upstream side of a filter element disposed in a housing of the containment system with a test aerosol, and automatically moving a probe disposed within the housing to obtain samples for leak testing.

Abstract: The present invention provides a functional transition metal silicate (FTMS) effective as a decontaminant, a disinfectant, a detoxificant, a protectant, a microbicide or combination thereof, comprising a ratio of transition metal to silica in the transition metal silicate in a predetermined range and a structural composition for said effectiveness, said FTMS being capable of being immobilized on a suitable materials or incorporating into resins and/or coating along with resins on suitable materials.

Abstract: Antimicrobial compositions containing buffered propionic or acetic acid mixed with pelargonic acid.

Abstract: A composition for treating waters, e.g. ballast water or injection water for oil recovery, to kill in-situ aquatic invasive species comprises at least one biocide capable of killing both animal and plant micro-organisms. The at least one biocide preferably comprises Brilliant Green, Gentian Violet, and/or erythrosine, and a wetting agent or detergent-like compound such as CTAB or CTAC. The invention also relates to a system for treating ballast water in situ comprising means for injecting a composition for treating ballast water; means for measuring the flow rate or amount of ballast water to be treated; means for controlling the dosing of the composition; and means for storing or receiving the composition. The invention also relates to a method of detecting viable aquatic organisms in ballast water in situ comprising detecting metabolism in viable micro-organisms in ballast water and, therefore, measuring the efficacy of any treatment.

Abstract: A new, novel and useful disinfection and purification system comprised of organic compounds in synergistic action with selected metal ions and method of manufacture and use. One of the benefits that is derived from this system is the ability to quickly and easily treat a surface, fluid or medium for disinfection of bacteria, fungi, viruses, algae and protozoans, with a non-toxic, non-chlorinated mixture that effectively kills all such organisms in minutes or hours. The disinfection and purification system remains effective for long periods of time maintaining its disinfection capacity making it highly effective for stored or transported mediums such as potable drinking water. The disinfection and purification system may be incorporated with carbon block or membrane filters to disinfect filtered liquids such as water to render it potable.

Abstract: A apparatus for treating ballast water with acrolein which is to be connected to a main ballast water line of a ballast water unit, comprises a reactor device to which acrolein derivate and water is to be fed for generating an aqueous acrolein solution, a branch line which is connected to the main ballast water line for branching off a partial ballast water stream, and a mixing device which is connected to the branch line and an acrolein solution supply line from the reactor device and is designed for diluting the aqueous acrolein solution from the reactor device, and a feed device for supplying the aqueous acrolein solution from the mixing unit to the main ballast water line.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide liquid pump apparatus. The apparatus may comprise an immersion assembly comprising at least one immersion member having a liquid conduit provided therein along at least a portion of a length thereof, the immersion assembly being arranged whereby in use at least a portion of the immersion assembly is immersed in liquid to be pumped, the apparatus being arranged to provide a supply of gaseous fluid to liquid in the tank through the at least one immersion member at one of a plurality of vertically spaced apart locations of the assembly thereby to cause passage of liquid through the assembly from a liquid inlet aperture to a liquid outlet aperture of the assembly, the apparatus being configured whereby a location at which gaseous fluid is supplied to the immersion assembly is selected to be a location at which a head of pressure of liquid in the tank is within a prescribed range of values.

Abstract: Some embodiments provide a multi-stage water treatment and enrichment apparatus with an upper water reservoir, a lower water reservoir, a cartridge that is composed of a porous filter and multiple seep through chambers that treat and enrich water, a water dispensing tap valve, and a preservation cartridge. Collectively, these components function (1) to provide multiple levels of treatment including filtration and purification, (2) to provide enrichment of water via mineralization, magnetization, softening, and alkalinization, (3) to provide for customizability of the treatment and enrichment so that different consumers can adapt these processes to satisfy their own personal preferences, (4) to provide an apparatus that operates using gravitational forces and without the need for external power or pressure to perform the multi-stage treatment and enrichment of water, and (5) to provide an inexpensive apparatus that is suitable for primary usage in the home.

Abstract: A portable ozonation apparatus for storing and purifying liquids includes a container having an opening for receiving a liquid and a treatment cap. The treatment cap is preferably detachably mounted to the container at the opening. Preferably, the treatment cap includes a main body portion having provided therein an electricity generating device and an ozone generating device. With this arrangement, un-purified liquid, such as water, is introduced into the container. The container is then inverted to bring the un-purified liquid into contact with the ozone generating device. At this point, the electricity generating device is activated to deliver an electrical current to the ozone generating device. Once powered, the ozone generating device produces ozone which is introduced into the liquid container. The ozone gas transforms un-purified liquid into a purified liquid suitable for consumption.

Abstract: An interactive sanitizer controller/display pad and method for controlling and selecting a dispensing rate in a sanitizer dispensing system based on the time the system is in a periodic dispensing mode and for indicating when a sanitizing dispenser needs replacement.

Abstract: Provided are methods of modifying solid particles with functional agents to provide anti-microbial media. The anti-microbial media comprise a surface-modified inorganic component which is a reaction product of an anti-microbial component and an inorganic component. Methods of making the media include agitating inorganic base material in a processing tank substantially simultaneously with spraying the anti-microbial component into the processing tank to form a coated base material. Methods of making the media also include maintaining a ratio of the anti-microbial component to the inorganic component such that the coated base material is below its compaction point. Methods of use are also provided.

Abstract: A method for treating ship ballast water in which aquatic organisms in the ship ballast water are exterminated by adding hydrogen peroxide or a compound producing hydrogen peroxide in an amount such that a hydrogen peroxide concentration comes to be 10 to 500 mg/L to the ship ballast water, and then providing physical means for causing shear strength and/or cavitation to the ship ballast water.

Abstract: A sustainable method and system for treating and maintaining bodies of water at low cost for low density recreational use is disclosed. A system of the invention generally includes at least one containing means, at least one coordination means, at least one chemical application means, at least one non-intrusive mobile suction means, and at least one filtration means. The coordinating means can receive information regarding water quality parameters that are controlled, and can timely activate the processes necessary to adjust the water quality parameters within their respective limits. The disclosed methods and system filter only a small fraction of the total water volume, up to 200 times less per day than the flow filtered by conventional swimming pool filtration systems. The disclosed methods and system also use less chemicals, up to 100 times less than conventional swimming pool water treatment systems.

Abstract: A system for reducing or preventing the growth of organisms in the process water used to coat glass fibers with a formaldehyde-free binder composition. One or more biocides is added to the process water that mitigates the growth of microbes in the water. The biocides are added in an amount sufficient to minimize growth of organisms without adversely affecting the application of the binder composition to the glass fibers.

Abstract: A method of treating ballast water. The method consists of a step of using as a concentrated brine solution having such a high degree of salinity as to kill organisms in the ballast water treatment system. The source of the concentrated brine solution is, preferably, the concentrated hypertonic brine solution produced by a ship's desalination unit.

Abstract: A device for treating liquid medium has an ultrasound emitter located relative to a compartment of a container holding a liquid medium and a microbubble emitter located relative to the compartment. The ultrasound emitter emits high-frequency ultrasound between about 200 KHz and 10 MHz. The microbubble emitter emits bubbles with an average diameter of less than 1 mm.

Abstract: A water chlorinating device having a vessel (2) in turn having a bottom portion (6) for containing water; a grille (10) located over the bottom portion and for supporting a solid chemical chlorinating substance (11); a spray device (13) for directing at least one water jet on to the grille (10); and a mixing nozzle (29) located inside the bottom portion (6), at the bottom of the vessel (2), and for agitating the water in the bottom portion (6) by means of a water jet.

Abstract: An automatic, self-regulating method of water treatment for use in water circulating towers in which water is evaporated, and make up water is added, with components which synergistically function to cut chemical, energy, water, corrosion, pollution, and maintenance costs, by passing the water through a Water Conditioning unit to prevent adhering evaporation scale deposits along with their content of concentrated biofouling nutrients from forming on the flooded surfaces of the tower and its associated water flow circuit, adding a trace level of iodine to the input make-up water to enhance the further disinfection of nutrient-deprived surfaces from any residual biofilm and chance pathogen contaminations, and adding a trace level addition of zinc ions in the water such as by an assured treatment feeder to the input make-up flow for inhibiting residual iodine-resistant algal and bacterial organisms of hazard for restoring bionutrient tower conditions, such as within sun-lit environments, and apparatus for carryi

Abstract: Embodiments are provided for removing a variety of contaminants using both rare earth and non-rare earth-containing treatment elements.

Abstract: The present invention describes methods and kits for determining the concentration of free chlorine in water. To avoid false readings from other species present in the water, the free chlorine is reacted with ammonia to form monochloramine, which is then reacted to form an indophenol or an indonaphthol. The concentration of the indophenol or indonaphthol is proportional to the total monochloramine present. Subtracting the concentration of residual monochloramine from the total monochloramine yields the concentration of monochloramine formed from the free chlorine and ammonia, and is proportional to the concentration of free chlorine. Embodiments of the present invention will simplify and accelerate accurate measurements of free chlorine in water, without interference from compounds impacting present measurements of free chlorine.

Abstract: A portable device for filtering and purifying water comprised of an outer chamber and an inner chamber that is slidable within a section of the outer chamber, and a small pore size pre-filter, whereby water is drawn through the pre-filter into the first container section of the outer chamber where it is isolated and treated with a disinfectant agent, then is drawn out of the first container section and into the second container section, and then into the inner chamber, where it is passed across another filtering material such as an activated carbon bed, removing any remaining contaminants before the potable water exits through a mouthpiece.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods for chemical analysis, bacterial disinfection, oxidative destruction and/or mineralization of organic compounds comprising using zero-valent iron and/or zero-valent iron-containing bimetallic compounds, preferably in acidic solution and/or in the presence of oxygen.

Abstract: An object to be solved by the present invention is to provide a highly reliable hazardous substance removing material capable of efficiently capturing and quickly inactivating hazardous substances of microbe origin such as viruses and bacteria, so as to minimize influences on the human body, such material being unlikely to be influenced by, for example, dimensional changes derived from dynamical and physical properties or a use environment (particularly humidity). The present invention provides a hazardous substance removing material which comprises a support having antibodies supported thereon, wherein a support is composed of a fiber which comprises at least one polymer having a carbonyl group and/or an ether group and has a volume swelling degree of not less than 1.1% to less than 10% in a water at 20° C.

Abstract: An ablutionary installation including a mixing valve having respective inlets for hot and cold water and an outlet for temperature controlled water, a temperature sensor for monitoring outlet water temperature and providing a signal representative of the outlet water temperature to an electronic controller, a user interface permitting selection of outlet water temperature up to a pre-determined temperature, the electronic controller being operable to compare the selected and sensed outlet water temperatures for controlling the mixing valve to adjust the ratio of hot and cold water delivered to the outlet according to the selected outlet water temperature, and apparatus for initiating a disinfection cycle to deliver water to the outlet at a temperature higher than the pre-determined temperature, wherein the initiating apparatus includes an operating sequence with at least two inputs.

Abstract: A water purification method and devices, and in particular a purification method effective against microbes, that uses a silane-based antimicrobial, and in particular the AEGIS MICROBE SHIELD antimicrobial, where the antimicrobial is embedded, coated, or otherwise permanently applied to a substrate or carrier, such as a solid, a porous solid, fibers or the like. A volume of microbe contaminated water is exposed to the antimicrobial carrier for sufficient residence time such that sufficient quantities of microbes are eradicated and the water is made potable. The antimicrobial carrier may be an object suspended or placed into a container or reservoir for the water, or the antimicrobial carrier may comprise the container or reservoir itself. Particulate filters or the like may also be combined with the antimicrobial container to remove other undesirable contaminants.

Abstract: A processor for decontaminating devices is comprised of a chamber for holding devices and a circulation system to circulate a microbial decontamination fluid through the chamber. A water filtration system filters water used in the processor. The water filtration system has a water line connectable to a source of pressurized water. A water decontamination system fluidly communicates with the source of water and the processor. The water decontamination system has a water circulation path and a tank located within the water circulation path. Means are provided to circulate water along the water circulation path through the tank. A gas circulation path fluidly communicates with the tank. Conveying means is provided to convey gas along the gas circulation path through the tank. An ozone producing device is located along the gas circulation path to introduce ozone into gas flowing along the gas circulation path and through the tank.

Abstract: An electrochemically activated fluid is provided, which has an anolyte and a catholyte. For example, a sparged anolyte and a sparged catholyte are provided. In another example, a combined anolyte and catholyte is provided.

Abstract: Aeration pipe for diffusion of a gas into a liquid medium, the pipe having a flexible microporous tubular wall of thermoset polymer particles and a thermoplastic binder for melt bonding said thermoset polymer particles and dispersing an antimicrobial compound substantially uniformly throughout the wall. The aeration pipe is useful in various environments such as aquaculture and waste water treatment.

Abstract: A method for removing helminth egg and other suspended solids from a wastewater stream includes directing the wastewater to a ballasted flocculation system and adding a coagulation agent, flocculation agent and a ballast into the wastewater. Sludge is settled from the wastewater in a settling tank at a rate of at least 10 meters per hour. The method further includes removing helminth egg by filtering the effluent through a fine screen having a mesh diameter of approximately 5 micrometers to approximately 25 micrometers. After passing through the fine screen, the filtered effluent has less than one helminth egg per liter.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for treating a composition containing toxic materials or biosolids, wherein the apparatus has a hydraulically sealable top that can be opened to allow loading of the composition or closed to seal the apparatus. The apparatus also includes a reagent injection system for injecting a reagent into the apparatus, a mixing device for mixing the composition with the reagent, a heater system for heating the composition, or the mixture of the composition and the reagent, an internal vapor recovery system for recovering gases, vapors, and odors from the toxic materials or biosolids, or from the reagents, a reagent recovery system for recovering the reagent after it has been mixed with the composition, a discharge mechanism for discharging the treated composition, and a control panel comprising temperature and pressure measurements.

Abstract: A sulfurous acid treated wastewater disposal method employing soil aquifer treatment (SAT) for artificial recharge of groundwater through infiltration basins allowing fully or partially-treated sewage effluent to infiltrate into the soil and move down to the groundwater through a “vadose” zone, which acts as a natural filter to remove essentially all suspended solids, biodegradable materials, bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms.

Abstract: A personally portable water purification compound prepared in unit dosage form such as tablets, packages and the like and having titanium dioxide (TiO2) in the form of fine particles, and adsorbed chlorine held at the surface of the titanium dioxide particles; and a titanium based coagulant; the compound being prepared in a plurality of unit dose size packages, for personal use by individuals. Also disclosed is a method of preparing a personally portable water purification compound consisting of the steps of heating titanium dioxide particles up to a temperature between about 260-500° C., passing a cold dry gaseous chlorine flow around the titanium dioxide particles; and cooling the titanium dioxide during the treatment.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to filtration media for treating fluids, particularly water. In one aspect, the invention relates to the filtration media coated with nano-sized, zero-valent metals. In another aspect, this invention relates to the processes for making such nano-sized, zero-valent metal-coated filtration media. In yet another aspect, the invention relates to removing microbiological impurities such as microbial pathogens from water by treating the water with filtration media that include nano-sized zero-valent metals. In another aspect, the invention relates to a device comprising such nano-sized, zero-valent metal-coated filtration media for treating water.

Abstract: Aquatic nuisance species (ANS) in ship's ballast water are killed by permeating to equilibrium a gaseous mixture consisting essentially of, preferably, ?84% nitrogen, ?11% carbon dioxide and ?4% oxygen through ship's ballast water until the ballast water itself becomes (i) hypercapnic to ?20 ppm carbon dioxide, and, by association, (ii) acidic to pH ?7, while preferably further, and also, being rendered (iii) hypoxic to ?1 ppm oxygen. The permeating is preferably realized by bubbling the gaseous mixture preferably obtained from an inert gas generator through the ballast water over the course of 2+ days while the ballast water is continually maintained a pressure less than atmosphere, preferably ?2 p.s.i. or less.

Abstract: A submersible apparatus, having at least one aperture formed in the body of the apparatus and one or more sanitizing or disinfecting tablets being contained within the apparatus, is placed into a swimming pool or other body of water. Initially, the combined mass of the apparatus and the chlorine tablets contained within the body of the apparatus will have slightly negative buoyancy and, as the apparatus sinks into the water, the position of the apparatus will stabilize (e.g., reach neutral buoyancy) at a position at or near the bottom of the swimming pool. As the chlorine tablets interact with the water in the swimming pool and slowly dissolve, the buoyancy of the apparatus increases (becomes more positive) and the apparatus gradually rises vertically until it reaches the surface of the swimming pool.

Abstract: A method for controlling the microbial contamination of water. Impure water is passed through a container packed with a specially-treated antimicrobial zeolite material. Zinc ions incorporated into the framework of the zeolite provide the antimicrobial effect. The method is designed to control bacterial levels while preserving the taste and potability of the water.

Abstract: Provided are biocidal compositions comprising 2,2-dibromo-3-nitrilopropionamide and a compound selected from the group consisting of 1-(3-chloroallyl)-3,5,7-triaza-1-azoniaadamantane; tris(hydroxymethyl)-nitromethane; and a hexahydrotriazine compound. The compositions are useful for controlling microorganisms in aqueous or water containing systems.

Abstract: A container for releasing a microbiocide component into a liquid composition susceptible to unwanted microbial growth (LCMG) includes a LCMG-impermeable casing separate and apart from an internal combustion engine housing, and having a hollow interior and at least one opening. A microbiocide component, for example, at least one LCMG-soluble microbiocide, is located in the hollow interior. At least one LCMG-permeable element is provided at or near an opening in the casing and is effective to provide for release of microbiocide component into the LCMG. Methods of releasing microbiocide component into LCMGs are also provided.

Abstract: A sanitizing agent for maintaining a biocidal effective bacteria count in a body of water comprising a metal ion donor for donating a metal ion and a compound containing a hydantoin ring with the combination of the compound containing the hydantoin ring with the metal ion donor enhancing the effectiveness of the sanitizing agent to enable the sanitizing agent to maintain a biocidal effective bacteria count in the body of water.

Abstract: Water-based colorant traced formulations (products) containing one or more water treatment agents, such as phosphonates, polyacrylic acids and/or polymers, co-polymers, terpolymers thereof, azoles, molybdate, polysilicates, phosphates, zinc, polyphosphates, etc., are provided wherein the water-soluble colorant is detectable in the visible light range of about 580-640 nm and is chemically inert relative to the water treatment agent(s). Measurement of an optical property of the colorant in the treated coolant water permits the concentration of the product therein to be ascertained, and the level of the product containing can be adjusted for controlling scale, corrosion, deposition, and/or microbial activity in commercial and/or industrial cooling water systems. These products may be reliably monitored and dosed to maintain a product level in treated water of 5 to 500 mg/L.

Abstract: There is provided a method of inhibiting the development of a biofilm adjacent a surface, the method comprising intermittently applying a biofilm inhibiting substance to a collection of microorganisms having biofilm developing potential. Other embodiments are also described.

Abstract: Methods and systems for programmed dispensation of consumable compositions are provided. A method for sterilizing a beverage container may comprise: (a) detecting a sterilization status of a beverage container; and (b) controlling functionality of a controllable device according to the sterilization status. A system for sterilizing a beverage container may comprise: (a) detecting a sterilization status of a beverage container; and (b) controlling functionality of a controllable device according to the sterilization status. A method for sterilizing a beverage container may comprise: (a) detecting an identity of a consumable composition; and (b) controlling a sterilization of at least a portion of a beverage container according to the identity of the consumable composition.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a method and apparatus for separating particles and dissolved matter from a produced water fluid stream. Specifically, the present invention includes a first pressure source which transports untreated produced water or contaminated aqueous fluid into a separator annulus with a filter element disposed therein. The untreated fluid is placed under appropriate pressure sufficient to produce turbulent flow, increased particle kinetics and/or cavitation allowing the desired fluid to penetrate and pass into and through the filter media. The treated fluid is then transported to a collection tank. The contaminant matter retained by the filter media may be removed by the nearly instantaneous reverse pressurization of the separator annulus by a second pressure source thereby removing the contaminant particles away from contact with the filter media, and which may then be transported to a waste collection tank or a separator for further treatment.

Abstract: A method for reducing the deleterious effects of sulfate reducing bacteria in aqueous environments, particularly those in which metal materials are exposed to the microorganisms. A treatment solution containing rotenone is introduced into the aqueous environment. The rotenone is present in the treatment fluid in an amount which is sufficient to inhibit the growth of sulfate reducing bacteria on the metal material.

Abstract: A new, novel and useful disinfection and purification system comprised of organic compounds in synergistic action with selected metal ions and method of manufacture and use. One of the benefits that is derived from this system is the ability to quickly and easily treat a surface, fluid or medium for disinfection of bacteria, fungi, viruses, algae and protozoans, with a non-toxic, non-chlorinated mixture that effectively kills all such organisms in minutes or hours. The disinfection and purification system remains effective for long periods of time maintaining its disinfection capacity making it highly effective for stored or transported mediums such as potable drinking water. The disinfection and purification system may be incorporated with carbon block or membrane filters to disinfect filtered liquids such as water to render it potable.

Abstract: A system for collecting and disposing of liquid medical waste includes a fluid collection cart and a draining and cleaning station. The fluid collection cart includes a pair of containers, each of which includes a draining port and a cap. Each cap includes an outer portion having a flushing port and a bore formed therein and an inner portion having vacuum and patient ports formed therein. The inner cap portion is disposable and removably positioned within the bore of the outer cap portion. Liquid level detectors also communicate with each container. The cart also includes a regulator so a low vacuum level may be pulled on one of the containers while a full vacuum level is pulled on the other container. Fluids are collected in the containers via suction tubes connected to the patient ports. The flushing and drain ports of the containers are connected to corresponding flushing and drain connectors on the station when the containers are full so that they may be drained and flushed.

Abstract: A two part biocide composition containing metal ions and bromine donor for killing microorganisms in a body of water and a method of killing microorganisms in a body of water by placing both metal ions and a bromine in the body of water to allow use of lower concentrations of bromine than if bromine were used alone as a biocide.

Abstract: A water purification method and devices, and in particular a purification method effective against microbes, that uses a silane-based antimicrobial, and in particular the AEGIS MICROBE SHIELD antimicrobial, where the antimicrobial is embedded, coated, or otherwise permanently applied to a substrate or carrier, such as a solid, a porous solid, fibers or the like. A volume of microbe contaminated water is exposed to the antimicrobial carrier for sufficient residence time such that sufficient quantities of microbes are eradicated and the water is made potable. The antimicrobial carrier may be an object suspended or placed into a container or reservoir for the water, or the antimicrobial carrier may comprise the container or reservoir itself. Particulate filters or the like may also be combined with the antimicrobial container to remove other undesirable contaminants.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for reducing the footprint of chemical/mechanical/biological wastewater treatment facilities employing sulfur dioxide disinfection and chemical dewatering of solids in conjunction with an environmental biological systems for treating the separated treated wastewater.

Abstract: A water treatment system for producing a sodium hypochlorite solution to control bacteria levels in well water containing: a pH adjuster; a container containing solid calcium hypochlorite for producing a calcium hypochlorite solution; and a container containing solid sodium carbonate for producing the sodium hypochlorite solution and a method of controlling bacteria levels in well water by using intermittent injections of a sodium hypochlorite solution with alternating pH values.