Liquid-liquid Contact Means Patents (Class 422/256)
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Patent number: 6830737Abstract: Method and apparatus for preparing microparticles using liquid-liquid extraction. A first phase and a second phase are combined to form an emulsion. A portion of the second phase is separated from the emulsion (solvent rich), and the solvent is extracted from the separated second phase, which is then returned (solvent poor) to the emulsion. This process of separation of a solvent rich phase, extraction of solvent, and return of a solvent poor phase, is carried out until a selected level of solvent in the emulsion is achieved. Alternatively, the separated solvent rich phase is not returned to the emulsion, but replaced with another solution, such as an aqueous solution, that is free from solvent. The solvent is preferably extracted into an extraction liquid that functions as a “solvent sink” for the solvent.Type: GrantFiled: September 6, 2002Date of Patent: December 14, 2004Assignee: Alkermes Controlled Therapeutics Inc. IIInventor: J. Michael Ramstack
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Patent number: 6824750Abstract: A vertical extending liquid/liquid contacting column is disclosed, which column will, when in use, contain a dispersed and a continuous liquid phase, the column having a first liquid feed inlet in the top, a first liquid outlet in the top, a second liquid feed inlet in the bottom, a second liquid outlet in the bottom and a plurality of internal trays axially spaced from each other in the column, each tray provided with a plurality of perforations for the passage of the dispersed phase and more than one downcomer or upcomer for the transport of the continuous phase, wherein the downcomer or upcomer extends respectively below or above the tray and wherein the walls of the downcomer or upcomer are inclined towards each other in the flow direction of the continuous phase. A method of use within the column is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2001Date of Patent: November 30, 2004Assignee: Shell Oil CompanyInventor: Jose Luis Bravo
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Publication number: 20040228757Abstract: Phosphine gas is generated by agitating a reaction mixture of a metal phosphide and water with agitation air in a reaction pot of a phosphine gas generator. The resulting phosphine gas is then diluted with dilution air to produce a fumigant phosphine gas which is directly delivered to a commodity for fumigation. The reaction pot does not have any rotating means such as agitators, rotors, or stirrers. The generator provides on-site generation of phosphine gas in a rapid manner improving the fumigation efficiency for a commodity, such as grain, preferably contained within a storage structures, such as a grain silo. The generator has a built in deactivation system for the unused metal phosphide and phosphine gas.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 12, 2003Publication date: November 18, 2004Inventors: Shroff Rajnikant Devidas, Pushpaksen P. Asher
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Publication number: 20040228758Abstract: A disinfectant delivery system and method of providing alcohol-free disinfection to a body to be disinfected, as well as a method of infection reduction by preparation of a patient before an invasive procedure. A blended cloth comprising first fibers and second fibers is provided with the first fibers generally being greater in quantity by weight than the second fibers. A disinfectant solution impregnates the blended cloth, with the disinfectant solution having chlorhexidine gluconate as an active ingredient and having no alcohol. In the method according to the invention, at least one impregnated blended cloth is used to disinfect at least a portion of a body. A plurality of blended cloths can be provided for disinfecting discrete portions of the body.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 12, 2003Publication date: November 18, 2004Inventors: Thomas Keaty, Robert J. Panek, Paul H Hanifl
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Publication number: 20040136864Abstract: An apparatus and methods for treating dentures at elevated pressured to enhance the effectiveness of the treatment employs a sealed pressure containment vessel. Denture cleaning, disinfecting, deorderizing, brightening, bleaching can be performed using this apparatus and method and the effectiveness of conventional active agents in removing plaque or the biolayer on the surface of the denture can be improved. Active agents can be forced into pores, fissures and microscopic openings in dentures to remove pathogens or contaminants that cannot be reached by conventional processes. The effectiveness of conventional effervescent denture treatment tablets can also be increased.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 10, 2003Publication date: July 15, 2004Inventor: William L. Barham
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Patent number: 6758964Abstract: A device for separating and renewing phases of a diphasic liquid—liquid mixture, in which a first liquid phase and a second liquid phase are circulated in counter current in a liquid—liquid extraction device. The device is in the form of a straight hollow cylinder with one of the bases being either the wall of the device or being in contact with the wall of the device. The device also includes an input orifice for the phase the user wishes to trap, an output orifice that is smaller than the input orifice for the phase that the user wishes to trap, separated, and a third orifice of an intermediate size when compared to the size of the input and output orifices for evacuating a non-desired phase.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2002Date of Patent: July 6, 2004Assignee: Commissariat a l'Energie AtomiqueInventors: Danielle Roudil, Francis Malzieu
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Patent number: 6749818Abstract: A cost effective solution preparing apparatus includes a chamber which is divided into two compartments by a movable partition; a dissolving solution supply line for supplying a dissolving solution to the first compartment of the chamber; a solution tank connected with the first compartment and the second compartment through a first solution preparing line and through a second solution preparing line, respectively; a transporting pump provided in the second solution preparing line; a concentration meter; a solution transporting line for transporting the solution prepared and filled in the second compartment to a point of use; and a circulating line, in which the solution tank is exemplified as a U-shape tank constructed of a relatively small-diameter upstream tank portion and a relatively large-diameter downstream tank portion, and at least one filter is provided in a downstream portion of the downstream tank portion.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2001Date of Patent: June 15, 2004Assignee: Nipro CorporationInventors: Yoshihiko Sano, Hidetoshi Saio
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Patent number: 6709595Abstract: The invention concerns a method and an installation for setting in adsorbed state, on a porous support, compounds contained in a product comprising a first step which consists in extracting the compounds by contacting the product with at least a solvent at supercritical pressure to obtain a mixture of extracts and solvent. The method is characterized in that it comprises a second step which consists in eliminating the water contained in the mixture of extracts and solvent, adjusting the temperature and pressure conditions so as to obtain, a first phase consisting of solvent in gaseous state and a second phase consisting of a mixture of liquids formed of solvent and extracts of the products; causing said two phases to trickle through a porous support adapted to adsorb the extracts; vaporizing the solvent contained in the second phase.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2002Date of Patent: March 23, 2004Assignee: Separex (Societe Anonyme)Inventors: Michel Perrut, Wieslaw Majewski
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Publication number: 20040050782Abstract: This invention provides a process for purifying a cyclosporin, e.g. cyclosporin A, or a macrolide, to a high degree of purity on a large scale. In another aspect this invention provides a bulk quantity of cyclosporin A with an impurity level of less than about 0.7%, e.g. about 0.5%, and compositions thereof.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 23, 2003Publication date: March 18, 2004Inventors: Peter Fuenfschilling, Berthold Schenkel
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Patent number: 6706186Abstract: The invention relates to a method for extracting copper in liquid-liquid solvent extraction from aqueous solutions with a high sulphate content, by raising the viscosity of the extraction solution and by dispersing the aqueous solution into drops, achieving a dense drop aggregation. The viscosity of the extraction solution may be raised either by increasing the content of the actual extractant, the extraction reagent, in the extraction solution or by using a diluting agent with a higher viscosity than that of the diluting agent normally used. By raising the viscosity of the extraction solution the mixing durability of the extraction dispersion can be increased and resulting of that the amount of residual drops is decreased. Other advantages are that the extraction solution flow of the extraction process decreases in relation to the flow of the aqueous solution acting as the copper source and that the size of the extraction equipment needed is reduced.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2002Date of Patent: March 16, 2004Assignee: Outokumpu OyjInventors: Bror Nyman, Stig-Erik Hultholm, Launo Lilja, Esa Lindell, Eero Ekman, Juhani Lyyra, Raimo Kuusisto, Pertti Pekkala
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Patent number: 6699445Abstract: The present invention provides a system for, and method of, performing various liquid-liquid contacting operations such as solvent extraction, stripping, scrubbing, washing, re-extraction and reacting in a single, integrated column. The ability of the integrated column, which is based on the intermediate decanter, of the present invention, to perform the entire operation of solvent extraction plant in a single column has many technical, economical, ecological and operational safety advantages. Investment costs significantly decrease due to the decrease in the number of columns, decanters, and auxiliary equipment, spare parts, materials inventories and the requisite area for the plant relative to a standard prior art plant. Operating and maintenance costs also decrease due to less pumping between columns and less equipment in operation.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 2001Date of Patent: March 2, 2004Assignee: Bateman Advanced Technologies Ltd.Inventor: Rafael Kleinberger
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Publication number: 20040005241Abstract: A dispenser (10) for a volatilizable material has a first member (14) that is substantially cup-shaped with a given diameter (X) and with a given depth (Z) and having a first peripheral flange (16) having a first diameter (D). A second member (18) has a second peripheral flange (20) with a second diameter (D2) greater than the given diameter (X). The first peripheral flange (16) and the second peripheral flange (20) are in intimate contact thereby defining a volatilizable material chamber (22) between the bottom (24) of the second member (18) and the bottom (26) of the first cup-shaped member (14). A volatilizable material (12) such as liquid mercury is placed in the chamber; and a hermetic seal (28) is formed between the first and second flanges. When installed in a fluorescent lamp the volatilizable material is released by heating the dispenser with RF current. The material is released when the vapor pressure within the dispenser reaches about 20 atmospheres.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 5, 2002Publication date: January 8, 2004Inventors: Mark W. Grossman, William A. George, Alfred H. Bellows, Eric Keup
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Publication number: 20040001776Abstract: A chemical vapor sterilization process is enhanced by flowing a portion of the sterilant vapor through an instrument container using a normal portion of the exhaust process. Preferably, an exhaust conduit which draws a vacuum on a sterilization chamber is oriented so that the container is adjacent an inlet to the conduit.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 20, 2002Publication date: January 1, 2004Inventors: Ben Fryer, Szu Min Lin, Robert Lukasik, Todd Morrison
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Publication number: 20040001774Abstract: A chemical vapor sterilization process is enhanced by controlling the temperature of a diffusion path between a vaporizer and a sterilization chamber so as to condense and then re-vaporize at least a portion of the vapor.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 28, 2002Publication date: January 1, 2004Inventors: Harold R. Williams, Szu-Min Lin, Robert Lukasik
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Publication number: 20030211022Abstract: Photolytic and photo-catalytic reactions have the potential to passivate water- or air-borne bio-hazardous materials. This invention describes a device to be used as a means for disinfecting water contaminated with organic compounds or biological agents such as bacteria, or viruses. The present invention relates to a device utilizing an inert substrate matrix to support a photoactive catalyst and a means for transmitting high energy light, especially ultraviolet light. The matrix presents a large surface area in direct contact with the contaminated water or air. The matrix transmits or is transparent to light emanating from a source such as a UV lamp. The substrate matrix provides a means for light to interact in close proximity with the photoactive catalysts and organic matter in the water or air.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 10, 2002Publication date: November 13, 2003Inventors: Karl J. Gross, Arlyn Antolak
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Patent number: 6632397Abstract: The present invention relates to a two-part or multi-part concentrate system for preparing an activated solution which can be diluted with water to a use-dilution solution having improved anti-corrosive properties at room temperature. The concentrate system contains a first component containing at least one oxidizing agent, preferably hydrogen peroxide and a second component containing at least formic acid in a concentration of about 25 wt %. At least one corrosion inhibitor and at least one surfactant are also included in the concentrate system. When mixed and diluted, the resulting solution is excellent in its sterilization and anti-corrosive properties.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 1999Date of Patent: October 14, 2003Assignee: Minntech CorporationInventors: Mary Beth Henderson, Patricia M. Stanley, Bradley K. Onstad
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Publication number: 20030180204Abstract: A material contaminated with a solvent is treated with a hydrofluorocarbon to remove the contaminant. A preferred hydrofluorocarbon is tetrafluoroethane. Apparatus for carrying out the process is also described.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 24, 2003Publication date: September 25, 2003Inventor: Mazin Nicola
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Publication number: 20030165402Abstract: The invention relates to a shelf stable liquid disinfectant concentrate composition containing at least 1% by weight of a quat biocide (biocidally active quaternary ammonium compounds) and capable of dilution with 20 parts of water to 1 part of concentrate to produce a diluted solution, the diluted solution exhibiting a MIC after 24 hours in the presence of up to 2% tryptone (or the protein equivalent thereof) which is less than the MIC of a simple solution of the same concentration of the same quat biocide in water in the presence of the same concentration of the protein. The biocidal efficacy of the quat biocide may be protected by an “activity protector” selected from the group consisting of “enzyme stabilisers”, “enzyme stabilising systems”, micelle formation modifiers and inhibitors, and combinations thereof. The invention also relates to a disinfectant working solution prepared from the concentrate, and to a method of protecting a quat biocide from deactivation.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 19, 2003Publication date: September 4, 2003Inventors: Alex Sava, Steven Kritzler
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Publication number: 20030150804Abstract: The present invention relates to a process and an apparatus for separating solids from a first liquid phase, wherein the solid in a first liquid phase is brought into contact with a second liquid phase and the solid is transferred into the second liquid phase. The solid is washed in countercurrent and at least partial displacement washing takes place during the washing of the solid.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 1, 2002Publication date: August 14, 2003Inventors: Michael Haubs, Reinhard Wagener
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Publication number: 20030133831Abstract: A method of impregnating a polymeric medical device with an antimicrobial agent is disclosed. The method involves forming a solution by dissolving triclosan in a compressed fluid and contacting the polymeric medical device with the solution. After the solution has been infused into the polymeric medical device, the solution and the medical device are separated.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 30, 2003Publication date: July 17, 2003Inventors: Christopher J. Knors, Yelena Tropsha, Noel G. Harvey, Richard P. Clarke
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Publication number: 20030124025Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided to protect the mail carrier and mail recipient from exposure to mail contaminated with biological agents. A bio-safe device is user programmed and loaded with an inexpensive decontaminant to automatically perform a treatment cycle on deposited mail to eliminate anthrax and other infectious agents from within an enclosed mail receptacle. This provides the delivery mail carrier or an individual mail recipient the means to destroy infectious agents before physical contact with the mail.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 3, 2002Publication date: July 3, 2003Inventors: Gary W. Mize, Brandy O. Mize
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Patent number: 6572831Abstract: A material contaminated with a solvent is treated with a hydrofluorocarbon to remove the contaminant. The hydrofluorocarbon can be tetrafluoroethane.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 1999Date of Patent: June 3, 2003Assignee: Advanced Phytonics LimitedInventor: Mazin Nicola
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Patent number: 6569390Abstract: Cartridge type extraction trays for use in a small diameter liquid-liquid extraction column comprise a novel vertical wall which surrounds the active (perforated) area of the tray. This wall extends upward to a sufficient height to retain the heavy liquid on the active area of the tray preventing the heavy liquid from reaching the edge of the tray when it may possibly leak downward due to a gap between the edge of the tray and the inner surface of the column wall.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2000Date of Patent: May 27, 2003Assignee: UOP LLCInventor: Lawrence E. Sullivan
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Patent number: 6562307Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for the simultaneous analysis of at least two samples by the field-flow fractionation method, where the apparatus has at least the following elements: a) a source of a defined liquid stream, preferably a pump, b) at least two separation channels, each with at least one inlet and each with at least one outlet for passing the at least two samples through in each case one of the at least two separation channels, c) at least one controllable unit which is connected to the at least two separation channels via their at least one outlet each, and which can pass on the at least two samples, which can be passed through in each case one of the at least two separation channels, separately from one another to at least one unit downstream of the controllable unit.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2000Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: BASF AktiengesellschaftInventors: Horst Schuch, Wolfgang Schrof
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Publication number: 20030086815Abstract: A liquid fuel candle apparatus with a polymeric element impregnated with a fragrant volatile medium includes a wick with an ignitable end and an absorbent end, a receptacle for holding a quantity of fuel, with the absorbent end of the wick in contact with the fuel, a receptacle having at least a first wall which forms a perimeter, with the ignitable end of the wick extending through the receptacle, and a polymeric element impregnated with a volatile medium disposed within the receptacle perimeter, and in substantially continuous contact with the perimeter wall.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 7, 2001Publication date: May 8, 2003Inventor: John N. Wesley
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Publication number: 20030050522Abstract: A method for operating a dimerization reactor that receives a hydrocarbon feed and produces an output stream comprising a light hydrocarbon component, a dimer and an alcohol component comprises: (a) separating the first output stream into a top stream containing the light hydrocarbon and a bottom stream containing the dimer, with the alcohol being present in the top stream or the bottom stream or both; (b) contacting at least one of the bottom and top streams with a water stream so as to extract at least a major portion of the alcohol therefrom, thereby forming an water/alcohol stream; (c) contacting the water/alcohol stream with a hydrocarbon stream so as to extract at least a major portion of the alcohol present in the water/alcohol stream into the hydrocarbon stream, thereby forming an alcohol-enriched hydrocarbon stream; and (d) feeding the alcohol-enriched hydrocarbon stream into the dimerization reactor.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 5, 2002Publication date: March 13, 2003Applicant: Fortum OyjInventors: Matti Nurminen, Ronald Birkhoff, Anand Subramanian
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Publication number: 20030035767Abstract: The present invention provides a system for, and method of, performing various liquid-liquid contacting operations such as solvent extraction, stripping, scrubbing, washing, re-extraction and reacting in a single, integrated column. The ability of the integrated column, which is based on the intermediate decanter, of the present invention, to perform the entire operation of solvent extraction plant in a single column has many technical, economical, ecological and operational safety advantages. Investment costs significantly decrease due to the decrease in the number of columns, decanters, and auxiliary equipment, spare parts, materials inventories and the requisite area for the plant relative to a standard prior art plant. Operating and maintenance costs also decrease due to less pumping between columns and less equipment in operation.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 16, 2001Publication date: February 20, 2003Applicant: BATEMAN ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES LTD.Inventor: Rafael Kleinberger
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Patent number: 6521195Abstract: Multi-phase extraction apparatus comprising two chambers forming a partition stage. Said chambers are connected by connection channels in their upper and lower portions. The upper portion of the first chamber is connected to the lower portion of the second chamber, while the upper portion of the second chamber is connected to the lower portion of the first chamber.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 1999Date of Patent: February 18, 2003Assignee: Bayer AktiengesellschaftInventor: Artak Eranosovich Kostanian
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Publication number: 20030029795Abstract: Apparatus for dispersing a first fluid in a second fluid includes a permeable body with a recess for receiving the first fluid. The second fluid can flow from the recess through the permeable body to the exterior of the body. A housing surrounding and spaced from the permeable body has an inlet for a second fluid and an outlet for a mixture of the first and second fluids. A baffle in the space between the permeable body and the housing defines a winding mixing channel through the space between the body and the housing.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 7, 2001Publication date: February 13, 2003Inventor: George M. Galik
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Patent number: 6454103Abstract: Multi phase extractor, comprising an extraction chamber, a washing chamber and a re-extraction chamber, said chambers each having inlets adapted to disperse and discharge a phase therein, and connecting channels adapted to convey a continuous phase from said extraction chamber to said washing chamber, from said washing chamber to said re-extraction chamber from said re-extraction chamber to said extraction chamber, and each of said chambers having drains for removing the phase discharged into it by said inlets.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 1999Date of Patent: September 24, 2002Assignee: Bayer AktiengesellschaftInventors: Werner Bäcker, Artak Eranosovich Kostanian
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Patent number: 6451265Abstract: An assembly for mixing a polymer with water and activating the polymer includes a water/polymer mixing chamber immediately preceding a high shear nozzle formed by a spring loaded plug seated against an outlet orifice of the mixing chamber.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 1997Date of Patent: September 17, 2002Inventor: Alfonso M. Misuraca
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Patent number: 6446815Abstract: The multi-phase extractor comprises at least two chambers 1, 1a, 2, 2a which are connected at their upper and lower parts by connection ducts 4. Moreover, the chambers are equipped with dispersing devices 3, 4a, in order to produce a swarm of drops in a first and second dispersed phase. Furthermore, ports 8, 9, 10, 11, 8a, 9a, 10a, 11a are attached to the multi-phase extractor for the supply and removal of the first and second dispersed phases. The improvement resides substantially in the fact that the chambers 1, 2 comprise separation zones 6,7 located in the area of the inlet openings of the connecting ducts 4.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 1998Date of Patent: September 10, 2002Assignee: Bayer AktiengesellschaftInventor: Artak Eranosovich Kostanian
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Patent number: 6436722Abstract: Invention performs an assay to determine presence or quantity of specific analyte in fluid sample. Representative device has two separate flow paths established sequentially in device with a single user activation step. First flow path delivers sample, and conjugate soluble binding reagents to solid phase. If analyte is present, an analyte:conjugate complex is formed and immobilized. Sample volume delivered by first path determined by absorbent capacity of solid phase, and not by amount of sample added to device. User need not measure sample volume. Sample/conjugate mixture is prevented from entering second flow path because capillary and surface energy of second flow path prevent it from being wetted by this mixture. Second flow path allows wash reagent to remove unbound conjugate and sample from solid phase to the absorbant, and optionally deliver detection reagents.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2000Date of Patent: August 20, 2002Assignee: Idexx Laboratories, Inc.Inventors: Scott M. Clark, Robert H. Suva, Michael R. Kepron, Stanislaw Barski, Jr., Erwin F. Workman, Jr.
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Patent number: 6432370Abstract: In a method according to the invention, a dispersion coming from a mixer part is conducted from downwards to the liquid part of the settler, into the middle part of the feed end, wherefrom it is set to be distributed to inside the settler part, in a closed channel-like space located in the immediate vicinity of the settler along the whole width of the settler and the flow therefrom mainly above the channel-like part towards the rear end of the settler. The method according to the invention is realized by means of an apparatus where an uptake shaft extending from the dispersion mixing tank to the settler opens into the feed end of the settler, from where there are further directed distribution channels towards the settler side edges. The distribution channels are placed in the bottom part of the settler.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2000Date of Patent: August 13, 2002Assignee: Outokumpu OyjInventors: Bror Nyman, Launo Lilja, Stig-Erik Hultholm, Juhani Lyyra, Raimo Kuusisto, Petri Taipale, Timo Saarenpää
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Publication number: 20020106319Abstract: Apparatus and method for sequential injection liquid-liquid extraction analysis. Under the control of a bidirectional precision pump, a stream-selection valve, and a microprocessor, a series of liquid zones is built up in a holding/mixing coil. The liquid zones are transferred from the holding/mixing coil to a separation cell. After phase separation into an extract and a raffinate, the extract is withdrawn from the separation cell and sent to a detector, which determines the amount of a component which was extracted from a sample by an extraction solvent. The principal advantages of this automated technology are elimination of the need for dynamic phase separation; on-line pre-extraction chemical conditioning; a substantial reduction in solvent, reagent, and sample usage; and a similar substantial reduction in waste generation.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 2, 2001Publication date: August 8, 2002Inventor: Duane K. Wolcott
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Patent number: 6426055Abstract: Described is a fragrance control release system which is an emulsifier-free, single phase, nonporous, continuous, permeable polymeric film having a substantially uniform thickness of from about 1 up to about 150 microns, having entrapped and dissolved therein molecules of at least one fragrance substance capable of evolving from said film into the environment proximate said film by means of molecular diffusion at a permeation rate of from about 1×10−7 up to about 0.1 mg-mm/cm2-min in a sustained and controlled release manner. Also described is a process for using the aforementioned system for imparting a fragrance into the environment above the unobstructed outer surface of the aforementioned polymer film which is coated on the surface of a solid or semi-solid support, e.g., a solid surface or human epidermis.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2000Date of Patent: July 30, 2002Assignee: International Flavors & Fragrances Inc.Inventors: Adi Shefer, Shmuel David Shefer, John M. Teffenhart
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Publication number: 20020098137Abstract: A method for separating a two-phase mixture of two immiscible fluids into a first fluid and a second fluid and simultaneously separating at least one of the first and second fluid in a fraction with high density and a fraction with low density where the fractions are miscible comprising the steps of a separation trayType: ApplicationFiled: January 24, 2002Publication date: July 25, 2002Inventor: Sven Ivan Hommeltoft
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Patent number: 6402952Abstract: An apparatus and method for extraction of chemicals from an aquifer remediation aqueous effluent are provided. The extraction method utilizes a critical fluid for separation and recovery of chemicals employed in remediating aquifers contaminated with hazardous organic substances, and is particularly suited for separation and recovery of organic contaminants and process chemicals used in surfactant-based remediation technologies. The extraction method separates and recovers high-value chemicals from the remediation effluent and minimizes the volume of generated hazardous waste. The recovered chemicals can be recycled to the remediation process or stored for later use.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2001Date of Patent: June 11, 2002Assignee: Bechtel BWXT Idaho, LLCInventors: Ryan D. McMurtrey, Daniel M. Ginosar, Kenneth S. Moor, G. Michael Shook, John M. Moses, Donna L. Barker
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Patent number: 6368498Abstract: A liquid separator (10) for separating two immiscible liquids having different specific gravities, for example, a first liquid comprising water and a second liquid comprising oil. The liquid separator (10) has a housing (12) that defines a separation chamber (14) and liquid inlet (16), a first liquid outlet (18) and a second liquid outlet (20) mounted above the first liquid outlet (18). A float 26 is positioned within separation chamber 14 to translate in the vertical direction and has a specific gravity between that of the first and second liquids so that it floats at approximately the interface (28) between the two liquid phases (30 and 32). Valve closure devices (38 and 40) contact valve seats in the valves 46 and 56 of first and second liquid outlets (18 and 20) to control the flow of separated liquids from separation chamber 14 as determined by the level of the interface (28) and the length of the valve rods (34 and 36).Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2000Date of Patent: April 9, 2002Inventor: Paul Guilmette
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Publication number: 20020012622Abstract: A method for removing residual VOC components from a fluid stream used in the sweetening of sour gas at gas processing plants. In a retrofit configuration, the method includes interposing a supplemental VOC removal station after a primary VOC removal station in an absorbent fluid stream. The absorbent fluid stream incorporates fluid into which sour gas components and VOC have been absorbed from a treated gas stream such as produced natural gas. The primary VOC removal station is configured to remove an initial portion of the absorbed VOC from the absorbent fluid stream. The supplemental VOC removal station is configured to liberate a portion of residual absorbed VOC remaining in the absorbent fluid stream downstream from the primary VOC removal station. Further, the supplemental VOC removal station is configured to avoid liberating absorbed sour gas components from the absorbent fluid stream.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 21, 1999Publication date: January 31, 2002Inventor: MATTHEW T. FRONDORF
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Patent number: 6331272Abstract: Microorganisms are destroyed and enzymes can be inactivated in liquids, such as juices for example, by continuously flowing the liquid and continuously flowing pressurized dense CO2 along flow paths which are separated by membrane having minute pores at which the flows contact each other in a nondispersive manner. Pressures in the two flow paths are equalized and the dense CO2 flow is continuously recirculated without depressurization. Contact between the flows can be maximized by using a plurality of parallel hollow fiber porous membranes with one of the flows being directed into the hollow fibers and the other of the flows being directed along exterior surfaces of the fibers. The process does not adversely affect properties of the liquid, such as taste, aroma and nutritional content, as heating of the liquid to a high temperature is unnecessary.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 1999Date of Patent: December 18, 2001Assignee: Porocrit, L.L.C.Inventor: Marc Sims
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Patent number: 6296769Abstract: A multiple chamber sample holding cartridge is used with a supercritical fluid extractor that causes membranes dividing the cartridge into chambers to rupture upon the pressurization of the sample cartridge, thereby allowing the intermixing of materials contained in the chambers. The neutral oil and loss determination of soybean and other oilseed oils by supercritical fluid extraction is efficient with this two-chambered sample cartridge.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 1999Date of Patent: October 2, 2001Assignee: Isco, Inc.Inventors: Henry Walters, Dale Messer, Dale Clay, Robert W. Allington
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Patent number: 6294088Abstract: A variable-orifice fluid restrictor for use with a supercritical extractor or chromatograph includes an inlet line for fluid at a pressure above its critical pressure, an extended tubular probe having an inner and an outer surface and a proximal and a distal end. The proximal end of the probe is disposed toward the inlet line. The distal end of the probe includes an adjustable orifice means adapted for metering the fluid and having first and second orifice members and an adjusting stem having first and second ends. The adjustable orifice means is adjacent to the outer surface of the probe and the orifice means is adjustable with the adjusting stem. The end of the adjusting stem is located at the distal end of the probe and is adapted for moving the first orifice member with respect to the second orifice member to control the adjustable orifice for varying the restriction of fluid passing through the adjustable orifice.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 2000Date of Patent: September 25, 2001Assignee: Isco, Inc.Inventors: Robert W. Allington, Henry LeRoy Walters, Daniel Gene Jameson, Yoossef Tehrani
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Patent number: 6251267Abstract: An apparatus for supercritical extraction is disclosed herein. The apparatus includes a plurality of containers adapted to hold a different one of a corresponding plurality of samples, a first transport means for carrying the plurality of sample containers, and a second transport means for transporting a selected container from the first transport means to a supercritical extractor. The supercritical extractor includes a heating means having a recess for receiving the selected container, means for passing fluid at a supercritical condition through the selected container, and a receiving means for receiving extractant from the selected container. A programming means is provided to control the first and second transport means.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 1994Date of Patent: June 26, 2001Assignee: Isco, Inc.Inventors: Robert William Allington, Daniel Gene Jameson, Robin Randall Winter, Dale Lee Clay
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Patent number: 6241943Abstract: Use of a solution comprising glucose for peritoneal dialysis, in which the glucose portion is sterilised separately from the remaining components at a high glucose concentration above about 20% and mixed after sterilisation, substantially according to WO 93/09820. The solution has a reduced formation of advanced glycosylation end products and the use is indicated for diabetic uremic patients.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 1998Date of Patent: June 5, 2001Assignee: Gambro ABInventors: Anders Wieslander, Gunita Forsbäck, Torbjörn Linden, Reinhold Deppisch, Thomas Henle, Anne Dawnay
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Cleaning system and method for cleaning a flow restrictor in a supercritical fluid extraction system
Patent number: 6180069Abstract: A source of oxidizing gas is coupled to a flow restrictor during a cleaning cycle in which the flow restrictor is heated to a temperature for a period of time sufficient to oxidize and remove built up residue from prior analysis. In one embodiment compressed air is supplied at a pressure of from 20 to 40 psi into the flow path for supercritical fluid, while at the same time the flow restrictor is heated to a temperature of from 300° to 400° C. to oxidize and remove built up residue. A heater assembly employs a resistance heater positioned to heat the restrictor for a period of approximately 12 hours, such that the system can be cleaned overnight when analyses are not normally performed.Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 1999Date of Patent: January 30, 2001Assignee: Leco CorporationInventor: James L. French -
Patent number: 6177018Abstract: Dosing mechanism to feed germicide or disinfectant into a water supplied supply device in order to provide disinfected water for consumers. Said dosing mechanism comprises a disinfectant storage tank (12), pathway for water flow (20) leading to at least one junction point (30), a remote-controlled feeder (22) enabling germicide to be added, a control device (52) working together with a flow metro which detects flow volume of water supplied and transmitting it as a signal to the control device (52) which actuates the feeder (22) according to a predefinable concentration of germicide in water. The storage tank (12) is pressurized with compressed air and the feeder is designed as a proportional valve (22) which can be actuated by the control device.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 2000Date of Patent: January 23, 2001Assignee: Alpro-Dental Produkte GmbHInventor: Mathias Ruppenthal
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Patent number: 6165415Abstract: A system for disinfecting a contact lens includes a first container section holding a first liquid medium containing hydrogen peroxide. A second container section is provided and holds a second liquid medium containing a hydrogen peroxide destroying component. The first and second container sections are configured to substantially simultaneously provide the first liquid medium and the second liquid medium to form a combined liquid medium containing an amount of hydrogen peroxide from the first liquid medium effective to disinfect a contact lens contacted with the combined liquid medium and an amount of hydrogen peroxide destroying component from the second liquid medium effective to destroy at least a major amount of the hydrogen peroxide in the combined liquid medium.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 1998Date of Patent: December 26, 2000Assignee: AllerganInventors: Terrence J. Hunt, Peter G. Bakhit
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Patent number: 6143178Abstract: A process for multi-phase extraction is carried out in an extraction apparatus comprising a multiplicity of stages connected in series, wherein each stage comprises an extraction and a reextraction chamber. In the extraction chamber, a raffinate phase is brought into contract with an extractant, which is reextracted in contact with an extract phase in a reextraction chamber. In the course of the process, the extractant is conveyed in cross-flow to the extract and raffinate phases within the same stage in each case, while the raffinated and extract phases are conveyed through some or all of the stages in counter-current flow. The extractant is a continuous phase and the raffinate and extract are dispersed phases. The circulating flow of the extractant is maintained between the extraction and reextraction chambers solely due to the density differences of the dispersed phases in relation to the continuous phase.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 1998Date of Patent: November 7, 2000Assignee: Bayer AktiengesellschaftInventor: Artak Eranosovich Kostanian
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Patent number: 6071483Abstract: A reactor vessel and an associated process for preparing a controlled-dosage chlorine dioxide solution. The vessel according to the invention comprises a hollow body inside which there are provided two chambers which have different volumes, each chamber having, in an upper region, an opening which is closed by a removable plug and the chambers are mutually connected by a substantially horizontal duct with openings located in a region which is spaced upward with respect to the bottom of the two cited chambers. The vessel according to the present invention is particularly suitable for preparing a disinfectant and highly pure chlorine dioxide solution, minimizing the risk of developing noxious gases.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 1997Date of Patent: June 6, 2000Inventor: Mauro Pastore