Abstract: An aqueous solution, preferably an aqueous disinfectant solution, containing chlorine dioxide and which is capable of forming a foam, and methods for the preparation and use thereof. An aqueous disinfectant solution capable of forming a foam is prepared by adding a foaming agent, i.e., a suitable surfactant, to water. Chlorine dioxide may then be added to the solution or it may be generated in situ by reacting an oxidizing agent, a cationic exchange resin in the acidic form, or an acid with a metal chlorite dissolved therein. The resultant foam solution may subsequently be foamed by being mixed with air in a foam generator. The foam solutions of the instant invention are useful as cleaning and/or sanitizing agents.

Abstract: A method for inhibiting food-borne pathogen and spoilage microorganisms in processed foods using a Lactobacillus sp. which produces an antimicrobial substance at refrigeration temperatures is described. The method is particularly effective in inhibiting gas producing heterofermentative spoilage microorganisms, mold, food-borne pathogenic microorganisms, (Listeria and Salmonella) and phychrotrophic microorganisms which can occur in processed foods.

Abstract: A contact lens disinfecting composition in solid form for addition to water comprises a contact lens disinfecting agent which is a source of hydrogen peroxide when in water, such as sodium percarbonate; an inactivating agent in delayed-release form such as sodium thiosulphate; and a color change indicator.

Abstract: A water recirculating system is which (a) water is continuously re-circulated through the system for the prime purpose of causing evaporation from the circulating water: and (b) such water is caused during its flow through an open part of said system through which part atmospheric air may flow to impinge on one or more solid surfaces whereby to increase the free water surface area available for evaporation and at a speed sufficient to release small water droplets from the water flow into the surrounding atmosphere. The system includes in serial relation with the water flow path a decontamination means (64) which comprises a chamber through which the circulating water may flow and in which there is provided an ion releasing means (80.

Abstract: A method and apparatus according to the invention provide for the use of ultraviolet radiation in combination with a magnetic field, whereby improved purification of the aqueous medium is achieved.

Abstract: A method of disinfecting a contact lens using hydrogen peroxide, which method comprises conducting the hydrogen peroxide treatment of the lens in the presence of an immobilized enzyme which catalyses the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide. The invention also provides apparatus and a kit for treating contact lens. Preferably the enzyme is catalase, which may be immobilized by adsorption, by absorption, by covalent binding or by antibody complexing.

Abstract: A method of disinfecting premises from coccidial oocysts in which surface to be disinfected is thoroughly wetted with a first aqueous solution of ammonium salt containing approximately 0.5 to 1.5 molar of ammonium together with non-ionic surfactant and indicator having a color change in the region of pH 8 to pH 10 and the wetted surface is then covered with sufficient of a second aqueous solution of alkali metal hydroxide containing approximately 0.75 to 2.3 molar of hydroxide toether with phenolic bactericide to cause the indicator to change color on the treated surface. A preparation for use in such a method comprises a first package containing ammonium salt together with non-ionic surfactant and indicator and second package containing alkali metal hydroxide and phenolic bactericide, the molar amount of hydroxide in the second package being greater than the molar amount of ammonium in the first package.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for treating water, either potable water or a recirculated body of water, in which the water flows through a passage around and in direct contact with the surface of the germicidal ultraviolet lamp and in direct contact with at least one ozone producing ultraviolet lamp, whereby dissolved oxygen in the water is directly converted into ozone dispersed in said flowing water. The water, when part of a recirculated flow as in treatment of pool or spa water, also flows in contact with a predominantly copper element having an extended surface, whereby ions of the copper are taken up in the water. The copper element preferably is a pair of spaced apart copper electrodes across which is applied an electrical potential by a control which maintains a constant current and thus regulates release of copper ions into the water for inhibiting growth of algae. The UV lamps are subjected to ultrasonic energy which will loosen particles tending to cling deposit on the lamp surface.

Abstract: A chlorine generator for preserving fruits and vegetables includes a first layer of paper, a second layer of paper and a third layer of paper. The first and second layers of paper are made of a laja type paper having a weight of about 30 to 70 gr/m.sup.2. One surface of the first layer is coated with a plastic permeable film having a weight of about 5 to 25 gr/m.sup.2. Both surfaces of the second layer are coated with a plastic permeable film having a weight of about 5 to 25 gr/m.sup.2. The third layer is made of a kraft type paper weight about 40 to 80 gr/m.sup.2. The three layers are joined together by a thermal seal. Pockets are defined by the layers and the seals. Calcium hypochlorite is placed in the pockets. The kraft paper layer can be impregnated with a mixture including about 1 part calcium hypochlorite anhydrous, about 4 parts calcium sulphate, about 8 parts toluene and about 2 parts acrylic lacquer.

Abstract: Ozone is electrically generated by ionization in an ionizing tube (7). The ozone migrates across a hydrophobic semipermeable membrane (25), and diffuses into an isotonic solution for soaking contact lenses for a predetermined duration, preferably on the order of two hours.

Abstract: Pre- and post-operative dental and surgical procedures in and on structures and areas of the oral cavity are maintained sterile by the application thereto of an antimicrobially enhanced aqueous solution of an iodophor constituting a source of iodine and a peroxide as a source of oxygen, the aqueous solution ensuring sterility of the structures and areas in the oral cavity before, during and after the operating procedures therein and retarding or inhibiting microbial regrowth on and in the structures and areas in a dental or surgical environment. The iodophor is preferably a povidone iodine complex soluble in water and the peroxide is preferably hydrogen peroxide, the oxygen from the peroxide acting to enhance the antimicrobial activity of the iodine derived from the povidone iodine complex.

Abstract: A method for conditioning water includes the steps of subjecting the water to a magnetic field treatment by causing it to flow through at least one magnetic field; and subjecting the water, in combination with the magnetic field treatment, to an oligodynamic treatment. An apparatus for conditioning water includes a chamber defining a flow path through which the water to be conditioned flows; at least one magnet system disposed about the chamber for generating a magnetic field, which magnetic field extends transversely to and penetrates the flow path; and pieces of at least one oligodynamically active metal disposed in the flowing water within the chamber.

Abstract: An aqueous solution, preferably an aqueous disinfectant solution, containing chlorine dioxide and which is capable of forming a foam, and methods for the preparation and use thereof. An aqueous disinfectant solution capable of forming a foam is prepared adding a foaming agent, i.e., a suitable surfactant, to water. Chlorine dioxide may then be added to the solution or it may be generated in situ by reacting an oxidizing agent, a cationic exchange resin in the acidic form, or an acid with a metal chlorite dissolved therein. The resultant foam solution may subsequently be foamed by being mixed with air in a foam generator. The foam solutions of the instant invention are useful as cleaning and/or sanitizing agents.

Abstract: This invention concerns a process for disinfecting an article by placing the article in an aqueous environment comprising a device that dispenses a chlorine donor and a chlorine acceptor that generate a chlorine biocide for disinfecting the article.

Abstract: Biological compositions are decontaminated by treatment with furocoumarin derivatives and irradiation under particular conditions in which the proteins retain their original physiological activities and any pathogenic microorganisms and polynucleotide fragments thereof are rendered inactive. It has been found that reduction of the amount of dissolved oxygen in the treatment solution substantially inhibits denaturation of the proteins.

Abstract: Materials in a closed or semi-closed environment can be effectively disinfected by thermally depolymerizing solid polymeric aldehydes which are in equilibrium with gaseous monomer acting as the disinfecting agent. Glutaraldehyde is a particularly effective disinfectant, and polyglutaraldehyde maintains its effectiveness by releasing the gaseous monomer at a slow, controlled rate over many days.

Abstract: A chamber, in which an atmosphere comprising a toxic vapor is established, is pneumatically isolated from the ambient environment. The isolation technique permits objects to be sterilized to be conveyed into and removed from the chamber without leakage of vapor from the chamber or of air into the chamber.

Abstract: In a swimming pool, or other open-to-sunlight water system, algae is controlled, as disclosed, by ionisation from a single metal, i.e., zinc. The zinc is mounted in a jacket that is built into the pipework of the pool, as a plurality of metallic zinc discs mounted in a plastic jacket or sleeve which is inserted into one of the circulation pipes for the pool. The sleeve is mounted to the pipe by pipe-to-sleeve adapters at each end thereof.

Abstract: A method is provided for placement of selected quantities of gas-producing solid fumigant at selected locations within the depth of a bulk-stored commodity within a storage compartment, such as grain loaded into the hold of a ship. The invention comprises a fabric sleeve projecting downwardly into the grain with a closed lower end at a selected depth, and an open filler pipe received into the sleeve through which a selected quantity of fumigant is poured. The filler pipe is withdrawn to leave the fumigant at a selected depth within the sleeve, whereupon the grain compresses against and closes upper unfilled sleeve portions thereby isolating the fumigant at a selected depth within the grain where it produces penetrating toxic gases to exterminate pests. In one form, the sleeve and filler pipe are inserted as an assembly to a relatively shallow depth within the grain subsequent to loading of the hold.

Abstract: Food is preserved by placing it in an atmosphere which includes ethanol and one or more volatile aliphatic acids. Suitable volatile aliphatic acids include those aliphatic acids having from 2 to 6 carbon atoms. A liquid mixture consisting essentially of ethanol and from 0.01 to 20 volume percent aliphatic acid(s) is placed in a sealable container for evaporation to provide the preserving atmosphere. Contact between the liquid mixture and food placed within the sealable container is avoided by placing the liquid mixture of ethanol and aliphatic acid(s) on a suitable absorbent or within a suitable liquid impermeable-gas permeable container.

Abstract: A dry composition for the sustained, controlled production of gaseous chlorine dioxide comprising a dry, inert diluent; a metal chlorite selected from the group consisting of alkali metal chlorites and alkaline earth metal chlorites; and a dry agent capable of reacting with a metal chlorite in the dry state to produce chlorine dioxide, said agent being selected from the group consisting of dry oxidizing agents and dry acids. The composition of the invention is manufactured using solely dry constituents, thereby obviating an intensive drying step and resulting in substantial savings as well as simplifying the manufacturing process. The compositions of the invention find particular utility in applications involving the controlled generation of chlorine dioxide for a sustained period of time for the preservation of boxed fruits and vegetables during transportation or in deodorizing enclosed spaces such as refrigerators or lockers.

Abstract: Surfaces and articles or devices sterilized with an aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution are treated with an aqueous solution comprising a sufficient amount of sodium pyruvate to decompose the hydrogen peroxide. The invention includes a method and sterilization system which is particularly useful in medical applications. Hydrophilic contact lenses may be conveniently sterilized with a hydrogen peroxide solution and rendered non-irritating to the eyes by treating the sterilized lenses with a sterile, sodium pyruvate solution which decomposes any hydrogen peroxide remaining with the lenses.

Abstract: A sterilizing apparatus for packaging containers is equipped with a closable preparation apparatus for a mixture of hot air and sterilizing agent vapor and a sterilizing chamber, into which containers to be sterilized are introduced. The closure means for the sterilizing chamber includes means for suspending a container to be sterilized within the sterilizing chamber. In order to realize a reduced use of sterilizing agent and heating energy, the apparatus has a circulatory system of mixture supply. The sterilizing chamber, as well as a bypass parallel to it, forms a part of this circulatory system. The bypass and the sterilizing chamber are alternately connected with the circulatory system by means of a reversing valve during nonsterilizing and sterilizing periods. A circulating blower, an air heater, and a preparation apparatus are also part of the circulatory system.

Abstract: A water purification system for use with a pool or the like in which a small quantity of water can be continually withdrawn from the pool for recycling. The system involves the use of silver impregnated activated charcoal granules as a combination filter and antimicrobial agent such that the need for chlorine and other conventional chemical treatment of the pool is eliminated or vastly diminished. A small portion of the water being recycled is diverted and so treated with the silver impregnated activated charcoal such that small amounts of silver ions are released into the water such that the silver concentration in the pool is maintained at a level effective to kill essentially all bacteria present therein.

Abstract: Water sanitizing compositions are disclosed which are comprised of a mixture of trichloroisocyanuric acid and an alkaline earth metal solubility promoting additive selected from the group consisting of the bicarbonate, carbonate, hydroxide, oxide and mixtures thereof of said alkaline earth metal. The compositions have a molar ratio of said additive to trichloroisocyanuric acid of from about 0.3:1 to about 3:1 and a moisture content of less than about 0.2 percent by weight of the compositions.The novel compositions rapidly dissolve in water bodies such as those found in swimming pools, commodes, automatic dishwashers and the like to quickly provide a sanitizing amount of available chlorine for sanitizing the water.

Abstract: A composition which is capable of releasing sulphur dioxide in the presence of water over an extended period contains a sulphur dioxide-liberating compound and hydroquinone. The composition may also contain thio urea and/or a phosphate buffer. The compositions are used to sterilize soiled articles, such as surgical and sanitary dressings, which have been placed in temporary disposal units prior to permanent disposal.

Abstract: Containers used for storing and dispensing liquids for medical applications include a closure, and medical connection device include cooperating connector members. An article of manufacture and a method are provided where a plastic outer closure is applied over container closures or over connection devices. The application of the plastic outer closure exerts an antibacterial effect in the juncture area defined by the interface of the outer closure and the container inner closure and neck, or defined by the interface of the outer closure and the connection site of the connector members. The outer closure is of a type of plastic that releases an antibacterial agent, which exerts an antibacterial effect in the juncture area.

Abstract: The title complexes comprise (a) a poly-2-oxazoline or poly-2-oxazine, such as the homopolymers of polymerized 2-ethyl-2-oxazoline or 2-ethyl-2-oxazine, and (b) IBrCl.sup.- or polyhalide anion of the formula (XY.sub.2n).sup.- where X and Y are individually chloride, bromide or iodide, but not both chloride, and n is 1, 2 or 3, and an independently supplied cation selected from the group consisting of alkali metals, alkaline earth metals, hydrogen and mixtures thereof. These complexes are readily prepared in either an aqueous or anhydrous environment at room temperature and are significantly more stable than either complexes of polyoxazolines or polyoxazines and halogen or interhalogen; or complexes of polyvinylpyrrolidone and polyhalide anions.

Abstract: Water sanitizing compositions are disclosed which are comprised of a mixture of trichloroisocyanuric acid and an alkaline earth metal solubility promoting additive selected from the group consisting of the bicarbonate, carbonate, hydroxide, oxide and mixtures thereof of said alkaline earth metal. The compositions have a molar ratio of said additive to trichloroisocyanuric acid of from about 0.3:1 to about 3:1 and a moisture content of less than about 0.2 percent by weight of the compositions.The novel compositions rapidly dissolve in water bodies such as those found in swimming pools, commodes, automatic dishwashers and the like to quickly provide a sanitizing amount of available chlorine for sanitizing the water.

Abstract: The invention relates to a circuit for ventilating and filtering the medium contained in a confinement enclosure (10) and also a method for sterilizing such an enclosure and its supply and discharge filters.An emergency or standby circuit is associated with the circuit ensuring ventilation and filtration under normal operating conditions and which comprises a supply pipe (20) and a discharge pipe (12), equipped with a suction fan (14). The said emergency circuit comprises the same pipes used in the opposite direction under the action of a suction fan (28) located in supply pipe (20), whereby said fan (28) can be automatically controlled by a pressostat (30). Sterilization is performed chemically, using a sterilizer which is connected to the supply duct between a valve and the supply filters disposed downstream of the valve. The sterilizer delivers a sterilizing agent which passes successively through the supply filters, the enclosure and the discharge filters.

Abstract: A laundry washing machine includes a washing tube, a water supply an a decalcifier for receiving water from the water supply and for discharging softened water. A metering tank is at an upper position in the machine to receive softened water from the decalcifier. A brine tank at a lower position in the machine receives softened water from the metering tank and generates brine. An electrochemical cell is provided to generate chlorine gas. Valves are provided to selectively pass brine from the brine tank to the electrochemical cell or to the decalcifier. Chlorine gas generated in the cell is absorbed and then passed to the washing tube.

Abstract: The sterilization of open-topped containers is accomplished by vaporizing a sterilizing agent in the vicinity of the container. The vaporization is preferably achieved by spraying the sterilizing agent on to a heating element positioned either in or immediately above the open top of the container.

Abstract: A method for killing water borne microorganisms comprises reacting two electrolytically-reactive elemental metals in water to dissolve sufficient metal ions to kill algae and coliform bacteria, without making the water unsafe for human use. Lead, copper and zinc are examples of such metals. Apparatus for performing the method comprises a perforated container of chips of such metals. A small version of the device can be used in toilet reservoirs to prevent the growth of microorganisms within the toilet bowl. A larger version of the device, submerged in a swimming pool, effectively prevents the growth of algae or coliform bacteria, substantially reducing or eliminating the need for chlorine. One embodiment of the device has an elongated cylindrical container with perforated side and bottom walls and a hook at its upper end for suspending the device in a swimming pool or toilet reservoir.

Abstract: The gas generating device according to the invention comprises a basin-like main container containing a solid chemical reagent substance, and an auxiliary container, arranged at the interior of the main container, containing a liquid chemical reagent substance.The main container is closed at its top by a cover lid in such a manner as to permit the outflow of gas generated at its interior. The gas generating device is accomodated at the interior of a storage or transport receptacle formed by a stack of superposed crates of fruits or vegetables, enclosed in a gas-tight wrapping of suitable plastic sheet material.

Abstract: A method of killing and inhibiting the growth of microorganisms in industrial process streams comprises the addition of an enzymatically catalyzed biocide system utilizing a microbial or plant dehydrogenase enzyme such as peroxidase or laccase in the presence of an oxidant such as hydrogen peroxide or oxygen to oxidize halide salts, or phenolic compounds found in or added to the process streams to produce oxidation products that are toxic to microorganisms.

Abstract: A device for the sterilization of fluids wherein a sterilizing gas is chemically generated in-situ within a liquid-impermeable container, which container is in contact with the fluid to be sterilized. The container is constructed at least in part of a solid, non-porous, liquid-impermeable synthetic plastic barrier, which barrier permits controlled diffusion of the sterilizing gas therethrough while preventing passage therethrough of impurities and the residue of the gas generation reaction.

Abstract: Sterilizing apparatus preferably comprises an enclosure surrounding the top, bottom and sides of a central sterilizing enclosure space and adjacent inlet and outlet enclosure spaces opening horizontally to the exterior of the enclosure at the opposite ends thereof. A continuously moving conveyor carries open-topped containers to be sterilized horizontally through the inlet, sterilizing and outlet enclosure spaces of the enclosure. The sterilizing enclosure space is divided by partition walls into an upper compartment which opens at the bottom thereof into a lower compartment immediately above the path of travel of the open tops of the containers passing through the lower compartment of the sterilizing enclosure space.

Abstract: A servicing composition which is sprayed from a container on or into a medical instrument e.g. a dental handpiece. The servicing composition includes an oil and propellant mixture for lubrication purposes but, for improved sterlizing purposes during subsequent hot-air heating and sterilizing of a medical instrument, an alcohol-aldehyde active substance combination in a proportion of 5 to 15% by weight is added to the mixture which is sprayed on the instrument. The preferred alcohol is isopropanol and the preferred aldehyde is formaldehyde or a succinic acid dialdehyde complex, and the preferred ratio of alcohol to aldehyde is 1:1.

Abstract: A sterilization system preferably utilizing two baths in which articles to be sterilized are immersed into a first bath where the articles are conditioned and then into a second bath containing a sterilizing solution where they are sterilized. The ingredients for the sterilization system are stored in hermetically sealed pouches which are opened just prior to use to release and activate the system. The sterilization system utilizes a chlorine solution which is highly efficacious while being non-corrosive and having a reduced toxicity and prolonged shelf life, and may be utilized by relatively untrained personnel.

Abstract: Disinfection of aqueous media contaminated with microorganisms is effected by contacting said media with a gas phase in which a plasma is generated by focused laser radiation. Similarly, wastewaters containing organic susbstances are purified by contacting them with an oxygen-containing gas phase in which a plasma is generated by focused laser radiation which promotes oxidation of the organic substances to innocuous products.

Abstract: A disinfecting tissue comprising an absorbent material having incorporated therein a disinfecting agent selected from (a) organic percarboxylic acids; (b) mixtures of a hydrogen peroxide donor with an organic carboxylic acid anhydride or a acyloxy-benzoic or -benzenesulfonic acid; and (c) a carboxylic acid amide; as defined in the specification. The disinfectant tissues are useful for the disinfection of the skin, hands, and inanimate surfaces.

Abstract: A "cold" gas sterilization process that operates at temperatures below 80.degree. C. in a temperature range that is generally considered nonsporicidal. The process is capable of sterilizing with gaseous hydrogen peroxide at extremely low concentrations in a gas phase, such as 0.5 mg/L. The widely used process of "cold" sterilizing with ethylene oxide is typically run at a gas concentration of 630 mg/L and 55.degree. C. Apparatus is also disclosed for use of this process in "cold" sterilization of contact lenses.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the purification of water with ozone and ultraviolet radiation. Oxygen-containing gas, such as air, is directed to flow in a confined path past an untraviolet radiation source, such as a mercury vapor lamp. The absorption of ultraviolet radiation by oxygen produces ozone which is entrained in the flowing gas. The gas is next mixed with the contaminated water and the mixture of water and ozone is then directed past the same ultraviolet source in a path isolated from the confined path of gas alone. The ozone in the water acts directly to kill bacteria and viruses and to oxidize undersirable compounds in the water. The ultraviolet radiation also acts directly to kill bacteria and viruses in the water. Additionally the ultraviolet radiation acts as a catalyst for the disinfecting and oxidizing action of the ozone, so that water purification occurs much faster than would occur if the ozone were acting alone.

Abstract: A short length of copper pipe for being dropped into a water tank, so to retard against the growth of moss in the water; and means in a modified design of the device for forcing the water to circulate through the pipe in order to increase the efficiency thereof.

Abstract: A method of treating an agricultural product, including the steps of placing the product within a storage container; providing a forced air supply to the container; introducing a gaseous chemical into the container, the particular chemical being selected for minimal sorption of the chemical by the product; and circulating the air and chemical mixture within the container through the product at a low rate of flow, utilizing the forced air supply, for a time sufficient to evenly distribute the chemical throughout the product volume. The rate at which the air is circulated is less than approximately 0.006 cfm/bu and is preferably maintained approximately between 0.0015 cfm/bu and 0.0008 cmf/bu. Hydrogen phosphide (phosphine) gas generated from aluminum phosphide is preferred as the chemical when the process is used for fumigation, but other gaseous fumigants exhibiting a low rate of sorption by agricultural products may also be used.

Abstract: This invention relates to the physical/chemical relationship wherein ultraviolet light energy excites the oxygen molecules to an extent the normal molecular form of oxygen O.sub.2 becomes O.sub.3 the physical chemical reaction is caused to take place by dissolving oxygen in an inert liquid, such as a fully halogen saturated hydrocarbon liquid, then radiating the absorber liquid with ultraviolet light; thus not only converting the soluble oxygen to ozone but also retaining it in solution in the absorber liquid unit it is desired to be released for useful work of chemical oxidation and/or disinfection.

Abstract: A "cold" gas sterilization process that operates at temperatures below 80.degree. C. in a temperature range that is generally considered nonsporicidal. The process is capable of sterilizing with gaseous hydrogen peroxide at extremely low concentrations in a gas phase, such as 0.5 mg/L. The widely used process of "cold" sterilizing with ethylene oxide is typically run at a gas concentration of 630 mg/L and 55.degree. C. Apparatus is also disclosed for use of this process in "cold" sterilization of contact lenses.

Abstract: A method of sterilizing the surfaces of articles such as medical intruments and other products by exposing such surfaces to hydrogen peroxide gas at temperatures below 80.degree. C. in a temperature range that is generally considered nonsporicidal.

Abstract: Compositions capable of giving extended release of sulphur dioxide, for use as sterilizing compositions especially in the temporary disposal of soiled sanitary and surgical dressings, comprising a sulphur-dioxide-liberation compound, for example a metabisulphite or a dithionite, and a sulfur-dioxide-liberation moderator, especially a thiosulphate and/or a phosphate.

Abstract: A method of vaporizing a multicomponent liquid, such as a hydrogen peroxide and water solution, for injection into a vacuum chamber including the steps of metering successive predetermined increments of the liquid at a predetermined rate onto a heated surface in a vaporization chamber. Upon exposure to the heated surface, each liquid increment is substantially instantaneously vaporized before the next succeeding liquid increment is metered onto the heated surface to produce a multi-component vapor increment having substantially the same weight percent composition as the multicomponent liquid increment. Each vapor increment is passed into the vacuum chamber.