Abstract: A modular reactor system comprises a backplane connected to a computer and a thermal control unit. The backplane includes a plurality of seats for releasably holding a plurality of modules. Each module holds a reactor vessel that may be used to conduct experiments. A plurality of laboratory instruments, such as motors, switches, sensors and pumps are included within the backplane and on the reactor modules. These laboratory instruments are utilized to perform work on the contents of the reactor vessels when the modules holding the reactor vessels are positioned in the backplane. A computer is connected to the backplane and controls the laboratory instruments within the backplane and on the reactor modules positioned within the backplane. A thermal control unit provides a thermal control fluid that is delivered to the reactors in the reactor modules when the modules are properly seated in the backplane.

Abstract: A heat treatment system comprises a plurality of feed lines for feeding a fluid, a plurality of treatment zones, leach treatment zone being fed by one of the plurality of feed lines, wherein each treatment zone includes at least one chamber for holding a material and flowing the fluid through the material, and a plurality of heating elements, wherein each heating element heats the material in at least one of the plurality of chambers. A method of treating a material comprises the steps of feeding a fluid to at least one treatment zone, wherein the treatment zone includes a plurality of chambers, each chamber holding a material to be treated, controlling flow rate of the fluid to the treatment zone, flowing the fluid through the material in each chamber, heating the material in at least one chamber and flowing the fluid out of the chambers.

Abstract: A heat treatment system comprises a plurality of feed lines for feeding a fluid, a plurality of treatment zones, each treatment zone is fed by one of the plurality of feed lines, and includes at least one chamber for holding a material and flowing the fluid through the material, a plurality of heating elements, wherein each heating element heats the material in at least one of the plurality of chambers, and a plurality of detection or sampling devices. A method of treating a material comprises the steps of feeding a fluid to at least one treatment zone, wherein the treatment zone includes a plurality of chambers, holding treatment materials, controlling flow rate of the fluid to the treatment zone, flowing the fluid through the material in each chamber, heating the material in chambers, flowing the fluid out of the chambers and analyzing the fluid flowing out of the chambers.

Abstract: A method for introducing at least one gaseous reducing agent for a nitrogen oxide into a gas mixture, and a device for carrying out the method. Thermal energy is supplied to a body made from a starting material of the reducing agent, so as to form the reducing agent. The starting material used is urea. The reducing agent formed is ammonia. This method is used in particular to reduce nitrogen oxides in the exhaust gas from internal-combustion engines.

Abstract: An electro-chemical analysis device and method for analyzing biomolecular samples, including a means for holding a sample on a substrate platform, a thermal sensor, a biosensor formed having a specific spatial resolution as related to the thermal sensor, and a means for providing radiation to the biomolecular sample. The means for holding the sample, the thermal sensor, the biosensor, and the means for providing radiation all three-dimensionally integrated with the substrate platform, thereby defining a compact biomolecular analysis device having a volume resolution of less than 50 micro liters. During operation, radiation is provided to the biomolecular sample to provide for a constant temperature at which hybridization of the biomolecules takes place. The temperature of the biomolecular sample is monitored and controlled by the integrated thermal sensor and the integrated heater. Once hybridization takes place, the change in electric condition (e.g.

Abstract: System for removal of targeted pollutants, such as oxides of sulfur, oxides of nitrogen, mercury compounds and ash, from combustion and other industrial process gases and processes utilizing the system. Metal oxides, such as oxides of manganese, are utilized as the primary sorbent in the system for removal or capture of pollutants. The metal oxides are introduced from feeders into reaction zones of the system where they are contacted with a gas from which pollutants are to be removed. With respect to pollutant removal, the sorbent may interact with a pollutant as a catalyst, reactant, adsorbent or absorbent. Removal may occur in single-stage, dual-stage, or multi-stage systems with a variety of different configurations and reaction zones, e.g., bag house, cyclones, fluidized beds, and the like. Process parameters, particularly system differential pressure, are controlled by electronic controls to maintain minimal system differential pressure, and to monitor and adjust pollutant removal efficiencies.

Abstract: A waste is dry-distilled in a gasification furnace and generated combustible gas is combusted in a combustion furnace. A temperature in the combustion furnace is set to be substantially constant at a first preset temperature or more. When the temperature in the combustion furnace is greater than the first preset temperature by combustion of other fuels, the combustible gas is introduced. When the temperature in the combustion furnace reaches a second preset temperature or more by the combustion of only the combustible gas, the combustion of the other fuels is finished. When the temperature in the combustion furnace falls below a third preset temperature the combustion of the other fuels is resumed. When the temperature in the gasification furnace falls below a fourth preset temperature, the combustion of the other fuels is finished.

Abstract: A particulate filter system for an internal combustion engine including a particulate trap, microwave-absorbing materials located in the particulate trap, and a NOx catalyst located in said particulate trap.

Abstract: Closed-loop feedback control of (continuous) catalytic polymerisation, by regulating the introduction of a Chain Transfer Agent (CTA) to a reactor, and so polymer chain length formation; through responsive (on-line) MFI determination, of a reactor polymer sample, using an MFI measurement viscometer (70) with dual measurement dies (91, 93), for extended measurement range.

Abstract: A method of reactivating a catalyst, such as a solid catalyst or a liquid catalyst. The method comprises providing a catalyst that is at least partially deactivated by fouling agents. The catalyst is contacted with a fluid reactivating agent that is at or above a critical point of the fluid reactivating agent and is of sufficient density to dissolve impurities. The fluid reactivating agent reacts with at least one fouling agent, releasing the at least one fouling agent from the catalyst. The at least one fouling agent becomes dissolved in the fluid reactivating agent and is subsequently separated or removed from the fluid reactivating agent so that the fluid reactivating agent may be reused. A system for reactivating a catalyst is also disclosed.

Abstract: A processing apparatus includes a sealed vacuum chamber which contains a processing portion; a pressure controlling system which keeps the internal pressure of the sealed vacuum chamber constant at a predetermined level by exhausting the ambient gas in the sealed vacuum chamber; and an ambient gas recirculating system which recirculates the ambient gas exhausted from the sealed vacuum chamber back into the sealed vacuum chamber; wherein the ambient as recirculated by the ambient gas recirculating system is blown into the sealed vacuum chamber so that a gas flow is generated in a predetermined direction along the processing portion.

Abstract: Apparatus for producing nano-particles according to the present invention may comprise a furnace defimng a vapor region therein. A precipitation conduit having an inlet end and an outlet end is positioned with respect to the furnace so that the inlet end is open to the vapor region. A quench fluid supply apparatus supplies quench fluid in a gas state and quench fluid in a liquid state. A quench fluid port positioned within the precipitation conduit is fluidically connected to the quench fluid supply apparatus so that an inlet to the quench fluid port receives quench fluid in the gas state and quench fluid in the liquid state. The quench fluid port provides a quench fluid stream to the precipitation conduit to precipitate nano-particles within the precipitation conduit. A product collection apparatus connected to the outlet end of the precipitation conduit collects the nano-particles produced within the precipitation conduit.

Abstract: The present invention is a method for predicting polymer latex properties for an emulsion polymer latex based on statistical relationships between the polymer latex properties and process parameters for the emulsion polymerization process.

Abstract: A method for measuring the temperature of fluid masses being treated in a tubular reactor apparatus which comprises carrying out the treatment in reactor apparatus comprises at least two same-type tubular reactors which are filled with solid particles, at least one tubular reactor containing a temperature measuring unit, the tubular reactors being designed such that both the ratio of the mass of the solid particles to the free cross-sectional area of the respective tubular reactor and the pressure drop measured by an inert gas being conducted transversely to the free cross-sectional area are each substantially identical across the respective tubular reactor. The apparatus is suitable for treating fluid masses while generating or consuming thermal energy, the temperature being measured.

Abstract: A gas detector for sensing the presence of at least one predetermined gas is operative in conjunction with a electrical power source and includes a detection circuit, a temperature controller, and a electrical current controller, wherein the detection circuit includes a sensing device having first and second electrodes, the first electrode being connected to the power source for heating the first electrode, the temperature controller is operatively connectable to the detection circuit for maintaining a temperature of the first electrode at a predetermined magnitude, and the current controller is operatively connectable to the detection circuit for maintaining a current in the second electrode at a predetermined magnitude.

Abstract: A thermal cycling device consisting of a plate containing a plurality of wells to hold liquid and a lid that covers the plate and contains a number of “pins” that insert into the wells of the plate to control the temperature of the sample in the well. Biological, chemical or other samples are placed into the wells of the plate and the lid is placed on the plate with the pins inserted into or in the proximity of the sample. The lid, the outer surface of which may be copper clad and in direct contract with the pins, is heated or cooled, rapidly and uniformly heating or cooling the biological samples. The temperature of the sample can be rapidly and uniformly cycled and is particularly useful for the amplification of DNA via the polymerase chain reaction.

Abstract: A temperature control system and method controls temperatures of front and back ends of a shift reactor. Front and back end temperature sensors sense temperatures of the front and back ends of the shift reactor and generate front and back end temperature signals. An actuator injects fluid into the front end of the shift reactor. A controller communicates with the front end temperature sensor, the back end temperature sensor and the actuator and controls the temperature of the front end and the back end. The controller includes primary and secondary control loops. The secondary control loop communicates with the back end temperature sensor. The primary control loop communicates with the front end temperature sensor. The secondary control loop generates a temperature setpoint for the primary control loop. The secondary control loop has a slower response time that the primary control loop.

Abstract: The present invention involves a sterilization system for running high amperage current through a dental or medical handpiece to be sterilized thereby heating the handpiece to a point of sterilization. The system includes a controller, a high amperage current source, and a handpiece receptacle. The handpiece receptacle includes clamps to hold the handpiece in place and a temperature sensor to measure the temperature of the handpiece. The controller controls the amount of current supplied by the high amperage current source to the handpiece according to the temperature of the handpiece. After the handpiece has been at or above the sterilization temperature for the required period of time, the controller stops the flow of current to the handpiece.

Abstract: A method of operation of a steam stripped fractionation column by using a computer to process the relevant operating parameters of the column to determine the undesirable approach to a possible flooding condition.

Abstract: A fuel evaporator 1 is provided in a fuel cell system FCS having an evaporating chamber that evaporates liquid fuel into fuel gas by heat medium gas. The fuel evaporator is provided with a liquid fuel injection apparatus 40 that injects liquid fuel into the evaporating chamber and an injection volume adjusting apparatus 42 that adjusts the injection volume of the liquid fuel injection apparatus. The injection volume adjusting apparatus 42 includes an injection volume adjusting portion that sets the fuel injection volume according to an injection volume target setting signal.

Abstract: An apparatus for treating waste gas from semiconductor manufacturing process includes a decomposition chamber having an inner wall and having a heater therein, a cleansing chamber and a waste water treating device; the inner wall of the decomposition chamber being mounted with a temperature sensor for servo control of the heater to operate at a constant temperature, and an aluminum foil layer to reflect heat to shorten decomposition time, the bottom end of the decomposition chamber being mounted with a detachable dust collector; the top section of the cleansing chamber being provided with a plurality of short metallic tubes to allow condensation of residual moisture of the discharged gas on the wall of the short metallic tubes, and the waste water treating device included a G-shaped tank mounted with a slurry removing device comprising a conveyor, a driving shaft, a driven shaft, a combing roller, a scrape board, and a speed-reducing motor, thereby precipitated slurries at the bottom of a storage tank is disc

Abstract: System for removal of targeted pollutants, such as oxides of sulfur, oxides of nitrogen, mercury compounds and ash, from combustion and other industrial process gases and processes utilizing the system. Oxides of manganese are utilized as the primary sorbent in the system for removal or capture of pollutants. The oxides of manganese are introduced from feeders into reaction zones of the system where they are contacted with a gas from which pollutants are to be removed. With respect to pollutant removal, the sorbent may interact with a pollutant as a catalyst, reactant, adsorbent or absorbent. Removal may occur in single-stage, dual-stage, or multi-stage systems with a variety of different configurations and reaction zones, e.g., bag house, cyclones, fluidized beds, and the like. Process parameters, particularly system differential pressure, are controlled by electronic controls to maintain minimal system differential pressure, and to monitor and adjust pollutant removal efficiencies.

Abstract: The present invention pertains to an apparatus for mixing mineral acid (e.g. sulfuric acid), and hydroxide bases (e.g. calcium hydroxide) to produce various useful mixtures (e.g. cleaning products, food production, etc.). The present invention provides an apparatus for reproducibly injecting an acid and a base to form a mixture in a controlled environment. In one aspect, the apparatus comprises a chamber having a distribution-blending-cooling dish suspended above the mixing chamber, an acid delivery system for introducing diluted acid into the chamber above the distribution-blending-cooling dish, and a base delivery system for introducing the base into the chamber by passing the base through the distribution-blending dish. The acid is injected preferentially and circumferenceially to provide, enhance, and cause thorough blending. The injectors or eductors are in the mixing chamber, and the blending dish is secondary to the initial introduction of acid.

Abstract: A processing apparatus includes a sealed vacuum chamber which contains a processing portion; a pressure controlling system which keeps the internal pressure of the sealed vacuum chamber constant at a predetermined level by exhausting the ambient gas in the sealed vacuum chamber; and an ambient gas recirculating system which recirculates the ambient gas exhausted from the sealed vacuum chamber back into the sealed vacuum chamber; wherein the ambient gas recirculated by the ambient gas recirculating system is blown into the sealed vacuum chamber so that a gas flow is generated in a predetermined direction along the processing portion.

Abstract: A reaction vessel system includes a reaction vessel, a cooling unit functionally connected to the vessel to impart controlled cooling thereto; a heating unit functionally connected to the vessel to impart controlled heating thereto; and control means connected to the cooling unit and the heating unit for programmable automatic control of the cooling unit to control at least one of on/off flow and rate of flow, and to control at least one of on/off heating and rate of heating, including a programmable device. The cooling unit includes a cooling element in proximity to the vessel with at least one inlet port for injection of a phase change coolant, a heat absorbent area and at least one outlet port for removal of the phase change coolant. This is an injector for injecting the coolant in liquid form via the inlet port to the cooling element.

Abstract: System for removal of targeted pollutants, such as oxides of sulfur, oxides of nitrogen, mercury compounds and ash, from combustion and other industrial process gases and processes utilizing the system. Oxides of manganese are utilized as the primary sorbent in the system for removal or capture of pollutants. The oxides of manganese are introduced from feeders into reaction zones of the system where they are contacted with a gas from which pollutants are to be removed. With respect to pollutant removal, the sorbent may interact with a pollutant as a catalyst, reactant, adsorbent or absorbent. Removal may occur in single-stage, dual-stage, or multi-stage systems with a variety of different configurations and reaction zones, e.g., bag house, cyclones, fluidized beds, and the like. Process parameters, particularly system differential pressure, are controlled by electronic controls to maintain minimal system differential pressure, and to monitor and adjust pollutant removal efficiencies.

Abstract: Systems and methods of archiving and retrieving storage elements are disclosed. In some embodiments, a fully automated sample storage and retrieval system may be operative to achieve both very high storage density as well as very high sample processing throughput rates, for example, supporting throughput rates greater than one hundred samples per day. In some embodiments, a system and method may archive and retrieve a plurality of storage elements supported in a two dimensional configuration in a storage receptacle.

Abstract: A method for monitoring and improving the performance of a chemical manufacturing process by monitoring transients associated with the operation of process equipment located dowstream of upstream equipment is disclosed. Transients on signals such as the motor current to downstream powder feeding equipment provide early indications of changes in chemical process performance which can then be corrected by altering chemical manufacturing process conditions.

Abstract: A device for preparing a sterile liquid includes structure for validating a sterilization treatment applied to the liquid. The validating structure includes structure for calculating, from at least one operating parameter of the device, a parameter representing a sterilizing value for the sterilization treatment, and structure for comparing the calculated parameter to a threshold value corresponding to the sterility of the liquid.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for accurately determining weight loss of a sample during heating in a furnace. The method includes the steps of placing a sample in a heated furnace, heating the sample while measurements of sample weight are made, determining rate function from the sample weight measurements, producing a weight loss correction factor using the rate function and using the weight loss correction factor to obtain a corrected weight loss for the sample.

Abstract: Since carbon monoxide is generated as subcomponent in a water vapor reforming reaction, in many cases, a shifter for conducting a shift reaction on water and carbon monoxide is used in combination. Generally, in the case of a stable operation, a concentration of carbon monoxide hardly increases. However, when using conditions of a catalyst are changed due to external factors in the shifter, a concentration of carbon monoxide increases.

Abstract: An apparatus for carrying out a process of converting hydrocarbon fuel to a hydrogen rich gas utilizes heat pipes to control the temperatures of the reactor beds, manage heat and integrate the heat management in a simple and efficient manner.

Abstract: Continuous flow heating system and a method of performing chemical reactions in a process fluid carried out in the system. The system includes fluid transporting and containing means and a number of sections adapted to control the temperature of the process fluid according to a predetermined temperature profile. The system comprises at least one heat-up section provided with a microwave heating means and at least one constant temperature section provided with a heating means, adapted to hold the temperature of the process fluid passing through it at a substantially constant temperature TC.

Abstract: A sanitizer which utilizes hot air to destroy bacteria upon household products such as nursery, bathroom and kitchen items. The sanitizer includes a base, heating element, fan, and a sanitizing chamber with spacers which allow optimal placement of the products being sanitized. The sanitizer includes a vented cover which allows operation within a set temperature range and fast cool down when the sanitizing process is complete.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for carrying out and monitoring the progress and properties of multiple reactions is disclosed. The method and apparatus are especially useful for synthesizing, screening, and characterizing combinatorial libraries, but also offer significant advantages over conventional experimental reactors as well. The apparatus generally includes multiple vessels for containing reaction mixtures, and systems for controlling the stirring rate and temperature of individual reaction mixtures or groups of reaction mixtures. In addition, the apparatus may include provisions for independently controlling pressure in each vessel. In situ monitoring of individual reaction mixtures provides feedback for process controllers, and also provides data for determining reaction rates, product yields, and various properties of the reaction products, including viscosity and molecular weight.

Abstract: A reactor includes a cylindrical chamber having an opening transverse to an axial direction of the cylindrical chamber, a cover movable along the axial direction between an open state in which the cover is away from the opening of the cylindrical chamber, and a closed state in which the cover seals the opening of the cylindrical chamber, and an actuator unit connected to said cover. An apparatus for producing aluminum nitride including the reactor is also disclosed.

Abstract: A system for determining the effectiveness of a catalytic coating on a catalytic converter in a motor vehicle. The system provides a driver or maintenance staff status of the catalytic function provided by the catalytic coating on the catalytic converter which is downstream from a heat exchanger connected to a cooling system in an engine in a motor vehicle. The catalytic converter is arranged to be heated by an air flow passing through the catalytic converter. The catalytic coating on the catalytic converter converts environmentally harmful substances in ambient air into substances which are not harmful to the environment. The motor vehicle also includes a control unit and a sensor. The sensor is connected to the control unit and is able to determine a degree of conversion of one or more environmentally harmful substances by the catalytic coating on the catalytic converter.

Abstract: Sterilization apparatus includes a monitoring system capable of continuously monitoring levels of a sterilant, such as hydrogen peroxide vapor. The monitoring system includes a sensor chamber joined in fluid communication with a sterilant supply conduit of the sterilization apparatus. A gas-detecting semiconductor sensing element, and associated temperature sensor, are provided within the sensor chamber to provide output signals corresponding to detected levels of sterilant. The sensor chamber isolates parametric influence, such as relative humidity, temperature and flow rate, to provide more accurate concentration level readings. A data collection circuit is operatively coupled to the sensors to provide an output corresponding to detected levels of sterilant within the apparatus.

Abstract: An automated in situ heat induced antigen recovery and staining method and apparatus for treating a plurality of microscope slides. The process of heat induced antigen recovery and the process of staining the biological sample on the microscope slide are conducted in the same apparatus, wherein the microscope slides do not need to by physically removed from one apparatus to another. Each treatment step occurs within the same reaction compartment. The reaction conditions of each reaction compartment for treating a slide can preferably be controlled independently, including the individualized application of reagents to each slide and the individualized treatment of each slide. The reagents are preferably held in a reagent dispensing strip similar to a “blister pack”.

Abstract: An annular heat-exchange reactor vessel allows for selectively controlled heat transfer between a first fluid and second fluid flowing through the vessel. Optionally, catalyst means may be added to further convert either fluid into a desired end product. In this regard, it is envisioned that the present invention will have particular utility in fuel processing systems. Additional, in-line upstream or downstream annular modules may also be incorporated to create a more complete, efficient and/or compact system. Various methods for constructing this reactor system are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method of sterilizing an instrument having an exterior and a proximal end in a chamber of a sterilizing apparatus, the method including the following steps: washing the instrument with a rinse fluid; removing bio-burden from the instrument with a bio-burden removing fluid; stabilizing a sterilization temperature at which sterilization of the instrument occurs; sterilizing the instrument; a first rinsing of the instrument with the rinse fluid; and a first drying of the instrument. The sterilizing step includes: applying to the instrument a first application of a sterilizing fluid at a first predetermined flow rate and applying to the instrument a second application of the sterilizing fluid at a second predetermined flow rate. The first application includes a first predetermined sequence of pulses of the sterilizing fluid and a driving fluid. The second application includes a plurality of pulses of the sterilizing fluid.

Abstract: The invention describes a thermal cycler which permits simultaneous treatment of multiple individual samples in independent thermal protocols, so as to implement large numbers of DNA experiments simultaneously in a short time. The chamber is thermally isolated from its surroundings, heat flow in and out of the unit being limited to one or two specific heat transfer areas. All heating elements are located within these transfer areas and at least one temperature sensor per heating element is positioned close by. Fluid bearing channels that facilitate sending fluid into, and removing fluid from, the chamber are provided. The chambers may be manufactured as integrated arrays to form units in which each cycler chamber has independent temperature and fluid flow control. Two embodiments of the invention are described together with a process for manufacturing them.

Abstract: Sterilant monitoring assembly includes an external housing defining an inlet and an outlet, and an internal flow path extending therethrough. An internal housing is located within the external housing and substantially surrounded by the internal flow path. The internal housing defines an interior sensor chamber therein, and includes a valve arrangement to join the interior sensor chamber selectively in fluid communication with the internal flow path. Preferably, the valve arrangement of the internal housing is defined by a base portion and a cover portion moveable relative to each other between an open position and a closed position. In one embodiment, the cover portion has an open end section configured for sealing engagement with an opposing surface of the base portion when moved axially to the closed position. In another preferred embodiment, the base portion and cover portion include mating peripheral walls.

Abstract: A thermocouple protection tube is designed such that it is capable of adjusting the length of thermocouple inside reactor after assembly. The design includes an outer casing, an inner casing and a means for fixing the relative position of the outer casing and the inner casing. The inner casing is positioned relative to, and within the outer casing. The fixing means temporarily fixes the relative position of inner casing and outer casing. The disclosed design permits the adjustment of the thermocouple length inside thermocouple protection tube according to the relative thickness the refractory lining inside reactor.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for abating F2 from byproducts generated during cleaning of a processing chamber. F2 abatement is efficiently performed by directly injecting H2 in line with a foreline exiting the processing chamber. A tube which is highly resistant to oxidation and corrosive gases, even at high temperature, is connected in line with the foreline as part of the exhaust line of the processing chamber. A cooling jacket may be provided for cooling the tube, since the reaction between F2 and H2 is exothermic. A pressure monitoring arrangement may also be employed to insure that pressure within a hydrogen line, that feed the injection of H2 into the tube, does not exceed a predetermined pressure value.

Abstract: The invention describes a thermal cycler which permits simultaneous treatment of multiple individual samples in independent thermal protocols, so as to implement large numbers of DNA experiments simultaneously in a short time. The chamber is thermally isolated from its surroundings, heat flow in and out of the unit being limited to one or two specific heat transfer areas. All heating elements are located within these transfer areas and at least one temperature sensor per heating element is positioned close by. Fluid bearing channels that facilitate sending fluid into, and removing fluid from, the chamber are provided. The chambers may be manufactured as integrated arrays to form units in which each cycler chamber has independent temperature and fluid flow control. Two embodiments of the invention are described together with a process for manufacturing them as well as two schemes for making connections to the outside world.

Abstract: The present invention includes an array of flow-through, temperature-controlled reactor tubes containing reagents or catalysts that are prepared using combinatorial techniques. Reactant gases are passed through the reactor tubes at a controlled rate and the effluent reaction products are collected for analysis using a variety of analytical techniques. Analysis may be done in real-time, or at a later time.

Abstract: System for removal of targeted pollutants, such as oxides of sulfur, oxides of nitrogen, mercury compounds and ash, from combustion and other industrial process gases and processes utilizing the system. Oxides of manganese are utilized as the primary sorbent in the system for removal or capture of pollutants. The oxides of manganese are introduced from feeders into reaction zones of the system where they are contacted with a gas from which pollutants are to be removed. With respect to pollutant removal, the sorbent may interact with a pollutant as a catalyst, reactant, adsorbent or absorbent. Removal may occur in single-stage, dual-stage, or multi-stage systems with a variety of different configurations and reaction zones, e.g., bag house, cyclones, fluidized beds, and the like. Process parameters, particularly system differential pressure, are controlled by electronic controls to maintain minimal system differential pressure, and to monitor and adjust pollutant removal efficiencies.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a batch sterilization system, a controller for use in the batch sterilization system, and a method performed by the controller. The system, controller, and method are used to administer and provide on-line correction of a batch sterilization process performed on a batch of containers. The controller compiles an actual retort time-temperature profile during the batch sterilization process from the actual retort temperatures sensed by a sensor. While this is occurring, the controller controls a batch sterilizer so as to administer an initial portion of the batch sterilization process before a temperature deviation has begun according to a scheduled time-temperature profile. This temperature deviation is between the actual retort time-temperature profile and the scheduled processing time-temperature profile.

Abstract: A particulate filter (22) is arranged in an exhaust passage of an engine. When an amount of discharged particulate discharged from a combustion chamber (5) per unit time exceeds an amount of particulate removable by oxidation which can be removed by oxidation on the particulate filter (22) per unit time without emitting a luminous flame, at least one of the amount of discharged particulate and the amount of particulate removable by oxidation is controlled so that the amount of discharged particulate becomes smaller than the amount of particulate removable by oxidation, whereby the particulate in the exhaust gas can be continuously removed by oxidation on the particulate filter (22) without emitting a luminous flame.