Abstract: A product for controlling humidity in an environment is a composite of micro-galvanic couples with a desiccant. When the humidity in the environment rises above deliquescent's unique deliquescence relative humidity (DRH), the deliquescent substance dissolves into a solution in response to an increase in humidity in the environment above said (mutual) deliquescence relative humidity point of said deliquescent substance(s), and, the micro-galvanic couples react with said solution into a metallic compound and hydrogen. Whereby at least some to all of the dissolved deliquescent returns to solid phase, and the humidity in the environment is maintained at or near the DRH. The micro-galvanic couples can be produced in a molten salt electrolysis bath. Electro-catalytic hydrogenation achieved by reacting a reactant with said micro-galvanic couples into a metallic compound and hydrogen, whereby at least some to all of hydrogen hydrogenates the reactant into a hydrogenated product.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides an oxygen-generating composition comprising an oxygen source and mixed-metal oxide of formula: (Fe,Mg)O, wherein said mixed-metal oxide is in at least partially crystalline form.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides an oxygen-generating composition comprising an oxygen source and a mixed-metal oxide of formula: (Li,Fe,Mg)O.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a composition for generating oxygen, comprising at least one oxygen source selected from chlorates and perchlorates, to an oxygen generator comprising such a composition, and a method for generating oxygen by decomposing such a composition. The present invention further relates to the use of transition metal ortho-phosphate compounds ortho-vanadate compounds and mixed ortho-phosphate-vanadate compounds as multifunctional components in the oxygen generating compositions.

Abstract: A biocide is formed by mixing at least one of ammonium sulfamate and ammonium carbamate with an aqueous solution of a hypochlorite oxidant at a molar ratio of ammonium to hypochlorite of at least 1:1. The biocide is useful in treating microbial or biofilm growth, pulp and paper process water, cooling tower water, waste water, reclaimed waste water, sludge, colloidal suspensions, irrigation water or a medium having a reducing capacity.

Abstract: Emulsion polymer particles comprising from 25 to 45 wt % polymerized residues of at least one C3-C6 carboxylic acid monomer and from 0.1 to 3 wt % polymerized residues of at least one crosslinker, wherein percentage of crosslinker increases continuously from particle centers to particle surfaces.

Abstract: According to one aspect of the invention, a composition for a stable chlorine dioxide precursor comprising an oxy halide salt is provided.

Abstract: The present invention describes a new system and method, named “Antinfection”, to protect primarily healthcare workers (HCWs) and patients against communicable and nosocomial infections. It's based on new antiseptic sprays, non-alcoholic, that can be sprayed automatically on the hands. The base of the antiseptic action is the persistent part, preventing the colonization of tissue and non-living surfaces with microorganisms through the targeted, on-demand release of Fluorine ions. The system including new sprayers for fast and controlled application; new technologies to secure the long-term protection against wear in the daily work routines of HCWs; new measurement techniques for the quality of the Antinfection; new quality recording concepts for the promotion and verification of new strategies and campaigns in the “lost war against the germs”.

Abstract: A composition for generating chlorine dioxide comprises active ingredients, a suitable hydrophobic compound, and a suitable super absorbent compound. A suitable hydrophobic compound will, among other characteristics, repel the solvent for at least the initial 30 seconds of exposure thereto. A suitable super absorbent compound will, among other characteristics, absorb at least 75 times its weight in solvent and will not gel until the chlorine-dioxide generating reaction is substantially complete.

Abstract: This invention comprises a lightweight, portable chemical combination of reagents for sterilizing or disinfecting objects in the absence of electrical power or fire. The chemical combination includes a chemical oxidant with the capacity to liberate a biocidal intermediate, a chemical reductant of the oxidant with the capacity to react with the oxidant, and an effector to induce a reaction between the oxidant and reductant. In one embodiment, the oxidant comprises chlorite, the reductant comprises sulfite, and the effector comprises ascorbate. In another embodiment, the chemical combination comprises the oxidant, reductant, effector and iron-activated magnesium. When water or water solutions are added to either embodiment, the chemical combination generates heat, steam and a biocidal intermediate that can destroy contaminating microorganisms. In one embodiment, the biocidal intermediate is a halogen-based biocidal intermediate, such as chlorine dioxide.

Abstract: Disclosed is a stabilized chlorine dioxide generating composition containing an oxy-chlorine salt, an acid source, optionally a free halogen source, and an endothermic agent. The endothermic agent neutralizes heat evolved by exothermic reaction of the oxy-chlorine salt by the endothermic reaction of the endothermic agent. Since the endothermic reaction eliminates and/or mitigates propagation of the exothermic reaction of the oxy-chlorine salt from a localized area through the total mass of the material, the chlorine dioxide generating composition is thereby stabilized during making, storing, or shipping the composition.

Abstract: An efficient cyclic process and related compositions for the in-situ generation of chlorine dioxide from dilute solutions of chlorite anions at near neutral pH. The cyclic process provides a means of safe and effective use of chlorine dioxide with reduced concern of chlorite accumulation in the aqueous system. The disclosed chemistry used to support the cyclic process can be applied independently or in various combinations that are effectively inert. This dramatically reduces safety concerns since the chlorine dioxide is produced in-situ to the application and in dilute concentrations. Also, the process allows for regeneration of inert anions such as bromide and chlorite thereby reducing operating cost.

Abstract: An efficient cyclic process and related compositions for the in-situ generation of chlorine dioxide from dilute solutions of chlorite anions at near neutral pH. The cyclic process provides a means of safe and effective use of chlorine dioxide with reduced concern of chlorite accumulation in the aqueous system. The disclosed chemistry used to support the cyclic process can be applied independently or in various combinations that are effectively inert. This dramatically reduces safety concerns since the chlorine dioxide is produced in-situ to the application and in dilute concentrations. Also, the process allows for regeneration of inert anions such as bromide and chlorite thereby reducing operating cost.

Abstract: An efficient cyclic process and related compositions for the in-situ generation of oxyhalogens from anions of chloride, bromide and chlorite in an aqueous system using in-situ generated sulfate free radicals. The cyclic process and compositions enhance the rate of inactivation of microbiological organisms especially those resistant to inactivation from free halogen based sanitizers, and oxidation of oxidation resistant organic based compounds in aqueous solution. Aquatic facilities susceptible to accumulation of organic N-chloramines and other oxidation resistant compounds, as well as oxidation resistant parasitic organisms such as cryptosporidium and Giardia, obtain dramatic improvements in the rate of oxidation and subsequent inactivation of these undesirable contaminants.

Abstract: This invention relates to a method for enhanced sanitation and oxidation of aqueous solutions at aquatic facilities. The method provides a means for the in-situ generation of chlorine dioxide from dilute solutions of chlorite anions at near neutral pH, and enhanced inactivation rates of microbiological organisms including cryptosporidium.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for their use are presented that substantially increase the rate of inactivation of microbiological organisms, especially those resistant to inactivation from free halogen based sanitizers, and oxidation of oxidation resistant organic based compounds in aqueous solution. Aquatic facilities susceptible to accumulation of organic N-chloramines, cyanuric acid and other oxidation resistant compounds, as well as oxidation resistant parasitic organisms such as cryptosporidium and Giardia, obtain dramatic improvements in the rate of oxidation and subsequent inactivation of these undesirable contaminants.

Abstract: This invention comprises a lightweight, portable chemical combination of reagents for sterilizing or disinfecting objects in the absence of electrical power or fire. The chemical combination includes a chemical oxidant with the capacity to liberate a biocidal intermediate, a chemical reductant of the oxidant with the capacity to react with the oxidant, and an effector to induce a reaction between the oxidant and reductant. In one embodiment, the oxidant comprises chlorite, the reductant comprises sulfite, and the effector comprises ascorbate. In another embodiment, the chemical combination comprises the oxidant, reductant, effector and iron-activated magnesium. When water or water solutions are added to either embodiment, the chemical combination generates heat, steam and a biocidal intermediate that can destroy contaminating microorganisms. In one embodiment, the biocidal intermediate is a halogen-based biocidal intermediate, such as chlorine dioxide.

Abstract: A method and composition for reducing chemical oxygen demand is presented. The composition includes a persulfate donor and a transition metal catalyst in contact with the persulfate donor. When the composition is contacted by water, the transition metal catalyst reacts with persulfate and reduces the persulfate concentration in the water. The composition allows the use of persulfate, which is known to cause irritation to users of aquatic facilities (e.g., pools, spas) that come in contact with it. As the persulfate concentration is reduced rapidly in the water by the catalyzed reaction, the persulfate-containing cleaning product may even be used while the aquatic facilities are being used. Optionally, a free halogen donor may be incorporated into the composition. The composition may be in the form of powder, granules (coated or uncoated), or agglomerate.

Abstract: A composition comprising a cationically-polymerizable compound, an iodonium-based cationic initiator, a sensitizer for said cationic initiator and an antioxidant selected from the group consisting of phenol antioxidants, lactone antioxidants, and combinations of these antioxidants is provided. The addition of this antioxidant to this composition contributes to the reduction of potential run-away reaction when it is exposed in-bulk to actinic radiation.

Abstract: Microbiological control is achieved by continuously and inexpensively dosing water in contact with biofilm, or that comes into contact with biofilm, using a highly effective biocide that provides very effective microbiocidal control of planktonic microorganisms and of biofilm species, even where the biofilm infestations have been in existence for long periods of time and thus have encased themselves in a substantial quantity of slimy defensive polysaccharide layers or films. In addition, the biocide used makes possible significant reduction in copper and/or iron surfaces in contact with the water as compared to N,N?-bromochloro- 5,5-dimethyl hydantoin. Still other advantages are made possible by the described technology.

Abstract: A method and composition for reducing chemical oxygen demand is presented. The composition includes a persulfate donor and a transition metal catalyst in contact with the persulfate donor. When the composition is contacted by water, the transition metal catalyst reacts with persulfate and reduces the persulfate concentration in the water. The composition allows the use of persulfate, which is known to cause irritation to users of aquatic facilities (e.g., pools, spas) that come in contact with it. As the persulfate concentration is reduced rapidly in the water by the catalyzed reaction, the persulfate-containing cleaning product may even be used while the aquatic facilities are being used. Optionally, a free halogen donor may be incorporated into the composition. The composition may be in the form of powder, granules (coated or uncoated), or agglomerate.

Abstract: A method and composition for reducing chemical oxygen demand is presented. The composition includes a persulfate donor, a transition metal catalyst in contact with the persulfate donor, and a cationic electrolyte. When the composition is contacted by water, the transition metal catalyst reacts with persulfate and reduces the persulfate concentration in the water. The composition allows the use of persulfate, which is known to cause irritation to users of aquatic facilities (e.g., pools, spas) that come in contact with it. As the persulfate concentration is reduced rapidly in the water by the catalyzed reaction, the persulfate-containing product may be applied while the aquatic facilities are being used. A free halogen donor may be incorporated into the composition. The composition may be in the form of powder, granules (coated or uncoated), or agglomerate. The cationic electrolyte facilitates the removal of the catalyst from the water.

Abstract: This invention relates to packaging for dilute hypochlorite and hypochlorous acid compositions to produce stable compositions. Examples of suitable packaging containers are a bag-in-can device, a plastic aerosol container, a dual delivery container, a dual chambered device, an expandable chamber device, a precompression trigger sprayer, a mechanically pressurized device, and an ultrasonic sprayer.

Abstract: A method and composition for reducing chemical oxygen demand is presented. The composition includes a persulfate donor and a transition metal catalyst in contact with the persulfate donor. When the composition is contacted by water, the transition metal catalyst reacts with persulfate and reduces the persulfate concentration in the water. The composition allows the use of persulfate, which is known to cause irritation to users of aquatic facilities (e.g., pools, spas) that come in contact with it. As the persulfate concentration is reduced rapidly in the water by the catalyzed reaction, the persulfate-containing cleaning product may even be used while the aquatic facilities are being used. Optionally, a free halogen donor may be incorporated into the composition. The composition may be in the form of powder, granules (coated or uncoated), or agglomerate.

Abstract: A method and composition for reducing chemical oxygen demand is presented. The composition includes a persulfate donor and a transition metal catalyst in contact with the persulfate donor. When the composition is contacted by water, the transition metal catalyst reacts with persulfate and reduces the persulfate concentration in the water. The composition allows the use of persulfate, which is known to cause irritation to users of aquatic facilities (e.g., pools, spas) that come in contact with it. As the persulfate concentration is reduced rapidly in the water by the catalyzed reaction, the persulfate-containing cleaning product may even be used while the aquatic facilities are being used. Optionally, a free halogen donor may be incorporated into the composition. The composition may be in the form of powder, granules (coated or uncoated), or agglomerate.

Abstract: Calcium hypochlorite compositions that are classified as a Packing Group III Division 5.1 oxidizer material or as a non-Division 5.1 oxidizer material are described. In one embodiment, the compositions comprise an admixture of particulate calcium hypochlorite and particulate metaboric acid. The calcium hypochlorite is present in the composition in an amount and is of a concentration such that the composition would be classified as a Packing Group II Division 5.1 oxidizer in the absence of said particulate metaboric acid. Other embodiments described are solid shaped articles, e.g., tablets, comprising the described calcium hypochlorite-metaboric acid composition.

Abstract: Microbiological control in aqueous media and/or eradication or reduction of biofilm on a surface in contact with such media is achieved by introducing into the aqueous medium a microbiocidally effective quantity of one or more 1,3-dibromo-5,5-dialkylhydantoins where one of the alkyls is methyl and the other is a C1-4 alkyl, wherein (i) the molar quantity of 1,3-dibromo-5,5-dialkylhydantoin introduced is less than the molar quantity of N,N?-bromochloro-5,5-dimethylhydantoin that would be required to effect the same degree of microbiological control in that medium, (ii) the molar quantity of the 1,3-dibromo-5,5-dialkylhydantoin introduced releases an amount of “free chlorine” that is greater than the amount of “free chlorine” that would be released in that medium by an equimolar quantity of N,N?-bromochloro-5,5-dimethylhydantoin, and (iii) the amount of “free chlorine” released by the quantity of the 1,3-dibromo-5,5-dialkylhydantoin introduced is greater than the amount of “free chlorine” that could be predicte

Abstract: A chlorine gas generating candle in a vented container which serves as a portable means to generate heated chlorine gas for killing insects, bacteria, viruses and other dangerous biological agents. The device has application in sanitizing dwellings, swimming pools and the like, and is effective in case of accidental release and/or biological attack. The chlorine gas generating candle disinfects an enclosed space with a quantity of heated chlorine gas. The chlorine gas generator is a self contained unit including an igniter which can be activated to initiate a self propagating burn of the entire candle and a resultant distribution of toxic chlorine gas. The use of one or a plurality of chlorine generators described in this application can provide any desired concentration of the killing gas. The chlorine gas generating candle can be safely and easily transported and does not require a source of power to operate.

Abstract: A composition for energy-controlled generation and release of at least one gas, which includes an energy-activated catalyst capable of being activated by electromagnetic energy, and a solid or a liquid containing anions capable of being oxidized by the activated catalyst or reacted with species generated during activation of the catalyst to generate at least one gas. The composition, when exposed to electromagnetic energy, is capable of generating and releasing the gas after activation of the catalyst and oxidation or reaction of the anions.

Abstract: A new chromotropic compound, compositions containing such a compound and methods of using such compound, such as in a test method for identifying the presence of free radicals, are disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to novel water treatment compositions. More particularly, the invention relates to solid water treatment compositions in the form of a water soluble tablet containing at least one halogen source and at least a pH compensating source in a layered tablet wherein one layer comprises the halogen source and another layer comprises a pH compensating source. Methods for controlling water biofouling and disinfecting water systems, particularly swimming pools and spas, are disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to frozen biocidal compositions. Specifically, the biocidal compositions comprise a frozen aqueous solution of a plurality of ions selected from the group consisting of halide and oxyhalide ions. The frozen biocidal compositions are useful in preserving or extending the shelf-life of perishable articles.

Abstract: A non-Division 5.1 Oxidizer composition consisting essentially of a blend of hydrated calcium hypochlorite with magnesium sulfate heptahydrate, wherein the blend contains at least about 17% by weight of water based on the total weight of the blend.

Abstract: A dry disinfectant composition for the production of aqueous solutions of chlorine dioxide of predetermined concentration is formulated of a mixture of lithium hypochlorite, sodium bisulfate and sodium chlorite. Special liquid and dry formulations are also contemplated for convenience of use, for quality assurance and for safety.

Abstract: A new chromotropic compound, compositions containing such a compound and methods of using such compound, such as in a test method for identifying the presence of free radicals, are disclosed.

Abstract: A bleaching composition that contains a bleaching agent and a chromotrophic radical scavenging compound, and a test method for identifying the presence of free radicals is disclosed. Such compositions offer improved stability.

Abstract: A disinfecting deodorant comprising an aqueous solution containing 10 to 1000 ppm of a chlorine-containing oxidizing agent and having a pH adjusted to 8 to 13 with an inorganic salt or an organic salt, a disinfecting and deodorizing method comprising applying the disinfecting deodorant to air or an object, and a disinfecting and deodorizing tool comprising a container having the disinfecting deodorant, the container being equipped with a prescribed atomizing means designed to atomize the disinfecting deodorant into a mist comprising droplets having a particle size of 10 &mgr;m or smaller in a proportion of 2% or less in number in a particle frequency distribution.

Abstract: The oxygen generation compositions include about 0.5-15% by weight of a substantially carbon-free metal fuel, and about 0.1-20% by weight of alkali metal silicate, stannate, titanate or zirconate as a reaction rate and core rheology modifier and chlorine suppresser. The oxygen generating compositions also contain about 0.1-15% by weight of a transition metal oxide catalyst; and the remainder is substantially an alkali metal chlorate or perchlorate.

Abstract: The oxygen generation compositions include about 0.5-15% by weight of a substantially carbon-free metal fuel, and about 0.1-20% by weight of alkali metal silicate, stannate, titanate or zirconate as a reaction rate and core rheology modifier and chlorine suppresser. The oxygen generating compositions also contain about 0.1-15% by weight of a transition metal oxide catalyst; and the remainder is substantially an alkali metal chlorate or perchlorate.

Abstract: A solid lavatory cleansing composition comprises: (i) a halogen-release agent containing at least 30 mole % of active halogen; (ii) a substantially non-oxidizable, substantially anhydrous surfactant component; and (iii) a substantially non-oxidizable solubility retardant agent.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to both physical and chemical means for maintaining continuous high levels of chlorine dioxide in aqueous solutions for extended periods, with minimum loss through degradation in the solution and dissipation through the walls of the containing vessel within which the solution is stored. The ClO2 may be maintained even in the absence of very high levels of chlorite, from which supplemental, offsetting levels of ClO2 may be generated. The present invention relates to the discovery that certain types of plastic and glass containers have the ability to maintain relatively constant levels of ClO2 in their contained solutions over extended periods, particularly in aqueous compositions comprising chlorite/ClO2 ratios sufficient for a stabilizing complex of the two, presumably Cl204—, to suppress the ClO2 loss.

Abstract: The oxygen generation composition utilizes magnesium oxide to modify and smooth the oxygen generation rate, suppress chlorine formation, improve the rheology and uniformity of performance of an operating chemical oxygen candle, and to facilitate the mixing of the candle ingredients. The oxygen generation composition typically comprises a metal powder as a fuel; magnesium oxide; and an oxygen source selected from the group consisting of alkali metal chlorates, alkali metal perchlorates, and mixtures thereof. The composition can also include a transition metal oxide catalyst, and can include a binder.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a stable fragrant bleaching block which comprises (a) a bleaching agent having a reduction potential from about −0.7 v to about +0.4 v and (b) an organoleptic effective amount of a fragrant agent which (i) is stable to the bleaching agent, (ii) does not decompose the bleaching agent, and (iii) is not substantially hygroscopic. This invention also pertains to methods for making and employing the stable fragranced bleaching block.

Abstract: The oxygen generation compositions include about 0.5-15% by weight of a substantially carbon-free metal fuel, and about 0.1-20% by weight of alkali metal silicate, stannate, titanate or zirconate as a reaction rate and core rheology modifier and chlorine suppresser. The oxygen generating compositions also contain about 0.1-15% by weight of a transition metal oxide catalyst; and the remainder is substantially an alkali metal chlorate or perchlorate.

Abstract: A dry disinfectant composition for the production of aqueous solutions of chlorine dioxide is formulated of a mixture of lithium hypochlorite, sodium bisulfate and sodium chlorite.

Abstract: The chlorate/perchlorate based oxygen generating compositions contain about 0.5-15% by weight of metal powder for use as a fuel selected from the group consisting of iron, nickel, cobalt and mixtures thereof; about 0.1% to about 15% by weight of at least one transition metal oxide catalyst; greater than 5% to about 25% by weight of an alkali metal silicate as a reaction rate and core rheology modifier, binder and chlorine suppresser; and the remainder substantially comprising an oxygen source selected from the group consisting of alkali metal chlorates, alkali metal perchlorates, and mixtures thereof. The alkali metal silicate can be selected from the group consisting of sodium metasilicate, sodium orthosilicate, lithium metasilicate, potassium silicate, and mixtures thereof. The oxygen generating composition can also optionally contain a binder selected from the group consisting of glass powder, fiber glass and mixtures thereof.

Abstract: A controlled release bleach thickening composition comprising bleach, water, and 0.1 to 50 weight percent, based on the total weight of the controlled release bleach thickening composition, of at least one crosslinked carboxylated polymer which is prepared from 30 to 80 weight percent of at least one ethylenically unsaturated hydrophilic monomer, from 20 to 70 weight percent of at least one ethylenically unsaturated hydrophobic monomer, and from about 0.5 to about 10 weight percent of a degradable crosslinking monomer selected from the group consisting of a crosslinking monomer having at least two ethylenically unsaturated moieties, a crosslinking monomer having at least one ethylenically unsaturated moiety and at least one functional group capable of reacting with another functional group on a monomer to form a degradable crosslink, and combinations thereof. In the controlled release bleach thickening compositions, the solubility of the polymer is suppressed by crosslinking.