Abstract: Method and apparatus for a continuous or intermittent supply of ozonated fluid, particularly water, from a closed loop system for sanitation, consumption, and other purposes. A preferred embodiment of the apparatus aspect of the invention comprises an ozone generator, an ozone entraining system, and a closed loop water circuit. The closed loop circuit permits continuous recirculation and ozonation of fluid not drawn from the system for use. Optionally the apparatus provides for the removal of an arbitrary fraction of ozonized or ozonated water to any arbitrary service application, such as food- or medical-equipment sterilization, with simultaneous addition of makeup water to maintain a relatively constant mass balance in the overall system, so that ozonized water is continuously available. Unused water is stored indefinitely in a reservior. Further options include venting of off gases and destruction of any ozone gas fraction thereof.

Abstract: Oxygen scavenging materials particularly for use in the food industry, are disclosed. The oxygen scavenging materials comprise at least one compound oxidizable by molecular oxygen, wherein the at least one compound is contained within an oxygen impermeable compartment(s) or microcapsule(s) which may, as required, be broken or otherwise rendered oxygen permeable by application of heat, electromagnetic radiation, mechanical pressure or stress, or by hydration.

Abstract: A stabilized two-part disinfecting system comprising a first part and a second part adapted to be mixed to yield an aqueous disinfecting composition. The first part contains a non-esterifying acid and an alcohol-containing humectant or antifreeze, while the second part contains a salt of an organic acid and an optional metal chlorite. Methods for making a disinfecting composition by mixing the two-part disinfecting system, as well as for disinfecting substrates by contact therewith, are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system for the decontamination of agricultural products by reacting the toxins and microorganisms, contaminating the product, with ozone. The ozone is generated on site and upon demand, thus eliminating ozone waste associated with long periods of ozone storage. The systems of the invention provide efficient, safe, and environmentally friendly use of ozone for product decontamination by optimizing the delivery of ozone to the contaminated product, monitoring and controlling the pressure in the treatment systems, monitoring and controlling the heat generated during the treatment of contaminated product with ozone, and controlling ozone release into the atmosphere.

Abstract: A frozen chlorine dioxide-containing composition comprising a metal chlorite and a protic acid in a frozen aqueous matrix made by freezing a substantially chlorine dioxide-free aqueous solution comprising a metal chlorite at a concentration ranging from about 0.0005% to about 0.5% by weight and a protic acid at a concentration sufficient to lower the pH of the aqueous solution to a value of about 1.8 to about 5.0. The frozen chlorine dioxide-containing composition has a chlorine dioxide concentration of more than about 3 ppm, while the aqueous solution prior to freezing has a chlorine dioxide concentration less than about 3 ppm. The frozen chlorine dioxide-containing composition is used to disinfect substrates by contacting the same with the frozen chlorine dioxide-containing composition. Suitable substrates include food intended for human or animal consumption, such as meat, fish and poultry.

Abstract: Process for controlling growth and/or removing parasites from pond water comprising adding to the pond water peracetic acid and hydrogen peroxide, simultaneously or separated in time, in amounts effective to control and/or remove said parasites.

Abstract: In a sterilizing and rinsing water generating method of generating sterilizing and rinsing water by increasing the electric conductivity of water by adding halide electrolytes to the water and creating hypohalogenous acid by electrolyzing the water using an anode plate and a cathode, the mole ratio of bromide ions and chloride ions supplied by the electrolytes is set to 57:43 or a value in the vicinity of it. The sterilizing and rinsing water generated by the method can sterilize even germs which form spores having a high tolerance. There is also provided a sterilizing and rinsing water generating apparatus for embodying the method.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to pathogen inactivating compositions that can be used to disinfect various biological fluids, such as blood, blood fractions, and the like. The compositions are suitable for disinfecting biological fluids containing valuable, but labile, components such as proteins without destroying the desired properties of such components. The pathogen inactivating compositions of the present invention are produced by contacting water or an aqueous solution with iodinated matrix material. The compositions can be pre-formulated and stored for subsequent use in disinfecting a wide range of biological fluids.

Abstract: A method for preventing microorganism multiplication, including using a gas containing a low concentration of ozone and a high concentration of ions, so that the multiplication of microorganisms can be safely and fully prevented by an additive effect of the ozone and ions. The generation of ozone is suppressed by reducing the discharge current in the ionization chamber using a pulse converter, which is provided to control the current flowing at the time of discharge, when generating the ions and ozone in the ionization chamber. Ions are produced in the ionization chamber in a high concentration to produce and supply ionized gas containing a low concentration of ozone and a high concentration of ions, which prevents microorganism multiplication on the objects.

Abstract: Microbial contaminated materials, such as medical instruments and waste from medical laboratories or hospitals, are disinfected and sterilized by using a combination of peracetic acid and ozone in a sterilization chamber. The peracetic acid is formed within the sterilization chamber by introducing liquid hydrogen peroxide and liquid acetic acid into the chamber.

Abstract: For sterilizing surfaces with hydrogen peroxide, a stream of hot air is fed through a tube which includes a porous section, and vaporized hydrogen peroxide is diffused from the porous section into the hot air stream to obtain a combined hot air and vaporized stream mixture for supplying the vaporized hydrogen peroxide to a surface for sterilizing the surface. Further for carrying out the process, liquid hydrogen peroxide is fed to the porous section for forming a film on the porous section, and the porous section is heated to a temperature to vaporize the hydrogen peroxide for diffusion via the porous section into the hot air stream.

Abstract: A low odor, aqueous, quick acting cold temperature disinfectant solution primarily useful for medical instruments to disinfect within a half hour or less. The composition comprises a reacting or synergistic combination of hydrogen peroxide and from about 1% to 30% by weight of a carboxylic acid/carboxylate salt buffered solution.

Abstract: A solution for generating chlorine dioxide comprises a chlorite, a chlorine donor, an alkali, and water. Substantially all of the chlorite is converted to chlorine dioxide upon acidification of the solution. Methods for preparing and using the solution are based on such solution.

Abstract: A method to disinfect a porous solid medium, such as soil, includes the steps of embedding a plurality of electrodes into the porous solid medium and applying a plurality of alternating current voltage pulses between the electrodes. The voltage pulses have a peak voltage of at least 10 kilovolts and are of an intensity and duration effective to generate a quantity of ozone. The ozone is produced in quantities sufficient to disinfect the porous solid medium.

Abstract: A multiple flashpoint vaporization system rapidly sterilizes large enclosures. A plurality of vaporizers (10) inject hydrogen peroxide vapor into streams of carrier gas supplied by a generator (20). Supply lines (30) transport the mixture of carrier gas and hydrogen peroxide vapor to a plurality of regions of an enclosure (32). Monitors (52) monitor hydrogen peroxide vapor concentration or other conditions in each region of the enclosure. A control system (50) adjusts the hydrogen peroxide vapor supply rate in response to the corresponding monitored conditions.

Abstract: A method for hydrogen peroxide vapor sterilization of medical devices and similar instruments having long narrow lumens or diffusion restricted areas includes the step of pretreating the article to be sterilized with a dilute solution of hydrogen peroxide prior to exposure to a vacuum or a vacuum followed by plasma. The method is such that, upon vaporization of the solution caused by the vacuum, the hydrogen peroxide remains in contact with the article for a time sufficient to achieve sterilization.

Abstract: A sterilant-disinfectant solution which may be used in the cleaning of metallic objects, particularly medical instruments. Medical instruments, which may included brass, copper, aluminium, stainless steel, carbon steel or plastic parts are sterilized or disinfected in an anti-microbial solution. The solution includes a triazole or other component for inhibiting the corrosion of copper or brass. Phosphates or other buffering agents adjust the solution pH in order to prevent the corrosion of steel. Molybdates or analogous compounds may be used to buffer the pH and have been found to inhibit the corrosion of aluminium by oxidizing agents. A sequestering agent is preferably provided for inhibiting hard water precipitation.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for sterilization of objects including the steps of placing the object that should be sterilized in a closed vessel; placing the closed vessel between two high voltage electrodes; applying a high voltage between the electrodes and converting the oxygen in the air inside the closed vessel into ozone; and keeping the sterilized object inside the closed vessel as long as needed. A "closed vessel" includes also any form of closed container or any closed plastic bag. The closed vessel may or may not have internal electric conductors. Furthermore, the invention provides a device for ozone sterilization of objects for use in the method.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a process for the treatment of a surface with a hygiene agent which can include the steps of: a) providing at the surface a non-photochemical catalyst (such as a transition metal compound) which catalyses the formation of the hygiene agent from one or more precursors, whereby the catalyst becomes deposited at the surface, and, b) subsequently treating the surface with a treatment agent (such as a solution of hydrogen peroxide) having the or each hygiene agent precursor, such that the hygiene agent is generated at the surface.

Abstract: An outer, first cup portion having a peripheral wall which has an opening at a first end and at a second end. An inner, second cup portion having a region which is formed from a first material which is impermeable to the powdered reagents but is permeable to water and to solutions containing dissolved reagents, the first and second cup portions being configured such that the second cup portion peripheral wall abuts and is connected to the first end of the outer first cup portion, the first and second being configured such that a first powdered reagent receiving chamber is defined in the first cup portion for receiving a first reagent and a second powdered reagent receiving chamber is defined in the second cup portion for receiving a second reagent, a closure secured to and closing the second end of the outer first cup portion, the closure being impermeable to the first reagent.

Abstract: A composition of matter and the method of making that provides a low pH acidic composition that is useful for destroying microorganisms that are undesirable and useful for destroying or reducing melanoma on human skin. The composition and method include sulfuric acid combined with distilled water and ammonium sulfate under at least 15 psi pressure in a pressurized container, all of which is heated to around 1200.degree. F. for at least 3 hours. The final cooled mixture is stabilized with 10 percent of the original mixture. The resultant composition is useful for preserving food, such as fresh fish, and for skin treatment of melanoma.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating a liquid to inhibit growth of living organisms therein by adding to the liquid an active biocidal ingredient formed by mixing an oxidant and an amine source, by: producing a predetermined dilution of the oxidant; producing a predetermined dilution of the amine source; synchronously metering the two dilutions into a conduit to continuously mix therein according to a predetermined ratio to produce the active biocidal ingredient having high reproducibility, stability and efficacy in situ in the conduit; and continuously injecting the active biocidal ingredient, as it is produced in situ in the conduit, directly from the conduit into the liquid being treated.

Abstract: The description relates to a process for the production of aqueous chlorine dioxide solutions through oxidation of chlorite with oxo acids and/or oxo acid anions having a suitable redox potential in a buffered aqueous medium, wherein an acidic aqueous solution A is produced which has a pH of about 5 or less and contains the oxo acids and/or oxo acid anions, and the acidic aqueous solution A is mixed with an aqueous chlorite solution B to form chlorine dioxide, wherein a pH of less than 6.95 is adjusted in the reaction mixture, this pH value being stabilized by a buffering system contained therein.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for treatment of fluids, the invention being characterized in that ozone is generated in the medium, which ozone is exposed to UV radiation at the same time as it is being generated, so that the ozone is broken down and free radicals are obtained. The invention also relates to an apparatus in accordance with the method, which apparatus comprises an enclosure (1) provided with at least one inlet (2) and at least one outlet (3). The apparatus is characterized in that an oxidizing member (4) is arranged in the enclosure (1) and generates ozone and at the same time breaks down the ozone to free radicals.

Abstract: A system to deliver gas/vapor from solid materials. Specifically, the delivery system for the use of gas or vapor released from a solid material, such as a non-aqueous/solid hydrogen peroxide complex. The system is comprised of a delivery system that is configured to receive a plurality of disks containing the solid material and provide these disks into an injector. The injector heats the disks to produce a gas or vapor that is then provided into a chamber. The sterilization process can be done by gas or vapor alone, or in combination with plasma or ultra violet radiation. In particular, a control system automatically induces the delivery system to provide the injector with a disk and then remove the disk once the injection sequence is complete.

Abstract: An apparatus (A) for sterilizing medical instruments and other articles includes a tray (12) with an article receiving area (14). An article to be microbially decontaminated is positioned in the receiving area (14) and a microbe blocking lid (10) is closed. A water electrolysis apparatus (30) receives water, splits the water into two separate streams that pass respectively through an anode chamber (34) and a cathode chamber (36), and exposes the streams to an electric field that results in the production of a catholyte solution for cleaning and an anolyte solution for sterilization. The anolyte and catholyte are selectively circulated through the article receiving area (14) by a pump (66) to clean and microbially decontaminate the external surfaces and internal passages of an article located therein. The anolyte or deactivated anolyte provides a sterile rinse solution. A reagent dispensing well (60) receives an ampule (80) or the like.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a method and an apparatus for sterilizing a container prior to filling the container with a pumpable food product such as milk, juice, water, soup or yogurt. The present invention uses UV radiation to transform oxygen into ozone at the filling station. The ozone flows into the container thereby sterilizing the container. Subsequently, the container is filled with a desired product and sealed. A preferred source of UV radiation is an excimer lamp.

Abstract: An aqueous acidic disinfecting and sterilizing composition for medical instruments, which may include brass, copper, aluminum, stainless steel, plastic and ceramic components. The composition contains hydrogen peroxide, peracetic acid, a corrosion inhibitor system, a surfactant and a stabilizer. These compositions have in use stability and are effective as a disinfectant and/or sterilant either at room or when heated. For other applications, surfactants, sequestering agents and stabilizers may be optional.

Abstract: A method for producing chlorine dioxide by activating zeolite crystals (which have been impregnated with metal chlorite such as sodium chlorite, and a water-retaining substance such as magnesium sulfate, potassium chloride, or potassium hydroxide, or calcium chloride) with an acid, or activating an aqueous solution of metal chlorite (preferably sodium chlorite) and such a water-retaining substance. Acids useful for performing the activation are acetic acid, phosphoric acid, and citric acid. The activation can be performed by causing fluid to flow through a bed of zeolite crystals impregnated with calcium chloride (or another water-retaining substance) and sodium chlorite, and a bed of zeolite crystals impregnated with the acid. The two beds can be physically mixed together, or the fluid can be caused to flow sequentially through distinct first and second beds (preferably first through the bed containing acid-impregnated zeolite).

Abstract: An apparatus and process for hydrogen peroxide vapor sterilization of medical instruments and similar devices make use of hydrogen peroxide vapor released from a substantially non-aqueous organic hydrogen peroxide complex, such as a urea-peroxide complex. Optionally, a plasma can be used in conjunction with the vapor. A method for preparing substantially non-aqueous hydrogen peroxide complexes is also provided. These complexes are useful as a source of peroxide vapor in hydrogen peroxide vapor sterilizers and as a component of self-sterilizing packaging materials.

Abstract: The invention concerns a hygienic agent for use in hemodialysis. This hygienic agent based on peracetic acid has an aqueous solution containing 6 to 8 weight % hydrogen peroxide, 0.1 to 1 weight % peracetic acid and 2 to 10 weight % acetic acid. Application to the disinfection, sterilization of dialysis generators, dialyzers, hemofilters and hemodialyzers and circuits of water treatment for hemodialysis.

Abstract: Compositions and methods useful for disinfecting a contact lens are disclosed. The present methods comprise contacting a contact lens with a liquid medium containing an effective amount of an oxidative disinfectant component at conditions to effectively disinfect the contact lens. The contacting occurs in the presence of a color indicator component which is soluble in the liquid medium and is adapted to provide a color indication of the presence of the oxidative disinfectant component in the liquid medium. The color indicator component comprises an effective amount of a transition metal component which is redox active, has an oxidized state of a first color and a reduced state of a different second color and a polyanionic component in an amount effective to inhibit the staining of the contact lens by the transition metal component.

Abstract: Provided is an anti-microbial composition containing an ester of formic acid, an oxidizer, performic acid and water. Also provided is a premix for making the anti-microbial composition having two parts. One part contains the ester of formic acid and a second part contains the oxidizer. Another method is provided for making the anti-microbial composition in which the ester of formic acid is combined with the oxidizer and water. A further method is provided for sterilizing medical devices, including dialyzer filter modules, wherein the anti-microbial composition is capable of a 1:1 to a 1:12 dilution with water.

Abstract: A substrate such as a woven or nonwoven fabric bound with a light-activated dye alone or in combination with additional conventional antimicrobial agents. The substrate is impregnated with a light-activated non-leachable dye having antimicrobial and/or antiviral characteristics which can be imparted to the substrate. The dye is bound by a cationic or anionic binder such as a water soluble polymer or carrageenan. Upon exposure to normal light, the dye generates singlet oxygen that kills microorganisms and viruses.

Abstract: A low odor, aqueous, quick acting room temperature disinfectant solution primarily useful for medical instruments to disinfect within a half hour or less. The composition comprises a reacting or synergistic combination of hydrogen peroxide and from about 1% to 30% by weight of a water soluble organic acid or salt form thereof with the acid preferably being selected from the group consisting of malonic and succinic acids.

Abstract: A tray and process for hydrogen peroxide vapor sterilization of medical articles. The tray includes a bottom surface and side walls defining a space to receive articles to be sterilized. The bottom surface of the tray includes a number of inlet passages and wells with a known volume. In the process of the present invention, articles to be sterilized are placed in the tray, and aqueous solutions of hydrogen peroxide is delivered into the tray. When the excess hydrogen peroxide is drained through the inlet passages, a known volume of peroxide remains in the wells. Such remaining hydrogen peroxide is then vaporized to achieve sterilization.

Abstract: An apparatus and process for hydrogen peroxide vapor sterilization of medical instruments and similar devices make use of hydrogen peroxide vapor released from a substantially non-aqueous organic hydrogen peroxide complex, such as a urea-peroxide complex. Optionally, a plasma can be used in conjunction with the vapor. A method for preparing substantially non-aqueous hydrogen peroxide complexes is also provided. These complexes are useful as a source of peroxide vapor in hydrogen peroxide vapor sterilizers and as a component of self-sterilizing packaging materials.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for disinfecting and cleaning contact lenses include a liquid medium containing hydrogen peroxide and a defined ethylene oxide/propylene oxide block copolymer. An advantageously reduced amount of foaming occurs when the hydrogen peroxide is destroyed, particularly by the action of catalase.

Abstract: A method for producing chlorine dioxide by moving fluid (such as air) relative to (e.g. flowing the fluid through) a first bed of zeolite crystals impregnated with at least one of the following: phosphoric acid, acetic acid and citric acid, and then moving the fluid relative to a second bed of zeolite crystals impregnated with sodium chlorite and/or zeolite crystals impregnated with chlorine. Optionally, at least some of the produced chlorine dioxide is absorbed by moving the fluid relative to (e.g., flowing the fluid through) a third bed of chemically impregnated zeolite crystals.

Abstract: A method is described for decontaminating or sterilizing a vacuum sealed container, particularly after a lyophilization cycle, wherein one or a plurality of containers containing microorganisms or dangerous products by introducing an aqueous gas or liquid into the container after dehydration. Also described is a device for performing the method.

Abstract: A system for disinfecting water streams comprises a source of ionized plasma, that is, a stream of air including ionized oxygen and nitrogen gas atoms and molecules, ozone, and singlet molecular oxygen, and an additional source of metal ions. The gas plasma is introduced into the water stream upstream of the metal ion stream to produce a variety of oxidizing, coagulating, and disinfecting reactions. Further, the metal ions combine with the gas ions to form additionally known disinfectant compounds. The source of ionized gas molecules is an ultraviolet lamp driven at very high frequency by a pulsated signal and optionally juxtaposed to a coil providing electric and/or magnetic fields, to excite and ionize oxygen and nitrogen molecules of the air. The metal ions are provided by sacrificial electrodes comprising alloy members of the metal elements to be provided to the water stream. A DC potential applied to the electrodes is uniformly reversed at intervals, to encourage sacrificial erosion thereof.

Abstract: The invention is a process for preventing microbial growth in aqueous streams by applying a C.sub.2 -C.sub.12 percarboxylic acid or mixture of such acids to the aqueous stream and to an automated dispensing system for the percarboxylic acids based on a correlation between oxidation-reduction-potential and anti-microbial levels of the aqueous stream. Generally, the process of the invention is applicable to aqueous streams used in any number of applications such as the application of streams for the transport of food products, e.g. fruits or vegetables, into the processing environment and through the various steps of processing.

Abstract: Formaldehyde-free tissue preservative compositions are useful in the fields of mortuary science and histology. The compositions disinfect and preserve animal (including human) tissues and remains, yet avoid the use of formaldehyde and formalin--potentially hazardous materials that are undergoing increasing regulatory review. A trio of compositions for use in embalming human bodies is disclosed, as is a composition for use in histological preservation.

Abstract: The invention is a process for preventing microbial growth in aqueous streams by applying a C.sub.2 -C.sub.12 percarboxylic acid such as, for example, peracetic, perpropionic, perbutyric, peroctanoic, perglycolic, perlactic, percitric; and the like to the aqueous stream. Generally, the process of the invention is applicable to aqueous streams used in any number of applications such as the application of streams for the transport of food products, e.g. fruits or vegetables, into the processing environment and through the various steps of processing.

Abstract: An apparatus and process for hydrogen peroxide vapor sterilization of medical instruments and similar devices make use of hydrogen peroxide vapor released from a substantially non-aqueous organic hydrogen peroxide complex, such as a urea-peroxide complex. Optionally, a plasma can be used in conjunction with the vapor. A method for preparing substantially non-aqueous hydrogen peroxide complexes is also provided. These complexes are useful as a source of peroxide vapor in hydrogen peroxide vapor sterilizers and as a component of self-sterilizing packaging materials.

Abstract: An apparatus and process for hydrogen peroxide vapor sterilization of medical instruments and similar devices make use of hydrogen peroxide vapor released from an inorganic hydrogen peroxide complex. The peroxide vapor can be released at room temperature and atmospheric pressure; however, the pressure used can be less than 50 torr and the temperature greater than 86.degree. C. to facilitate the release of hydrogen peroxide vapor. The heating rate can be greater than 5.degree. C. Optionally, a plasma can be used in conjunction with the vapor.

Abstract: A lid (10) of a countertop decontamination unit (A) is opened to gain access to a tray (12) for receiving items to be sterilized and a well (16) for receiving a two compartment powdered anti-microbial agent carrying cup (C). The cup includes an outer cup portion (50) and an inner cup portion (70) that have peripheral walls (52, 72) affixed together at flanges (54, 74). The outer cup portion (50) is closed at one end by a first detachable base (58). The inner cup portion (70) is closed by a second detachable base (78). The outer and inner cups (50, 70) define a first powdered reagent receiving chamber (56) therebetween. The inner cup defines a second chamber therein. A permeable sheet (100) is affixed to the inner cup portion flange (74) for ventedly sealing both chambers.

Abstract: The invention relates to a chamber for use in a fumigation method to produce a fumigant gas mixture and supply it to a circulatory loop gas flow system gas. The chamber is adapted to receive fumigant gas generation device and includes:an inlet port controlled by an inlet valve,an outlet port controlled by an outlet valve,a flushing gas inlet controlled by a flushing gas inlet valve for connection to a source of inert gas,a vent valve, andaccess means openable for access to its interior from a position outside of the fumigation space.The chamber forms part of the loop gas flow system when connected to ends of a gas duct. The invention further relates to a method of fumigating a bulk commodity in an enclosed fumigation space wherein the fumigant gas mixture is generated in the chamber as well as to use of the chamber in such a fumigation method.

Abstract: A process for color anodizing and sterilizing aluminum surfaces on medical instruments without fading the anodized color comprises the steps of: anodizing an aluminum surface on a medical instrument to form an oxide film; immersing the surface in a salt bath of a coloring metal and electrolytically depositing the coloring metal onto the oxide film; and repeatedly sterilizing the medical instrument and its surface by exposing it to an oxidizing sterilant, whereby the electrolytically deposited coloring metal remains adhered to the surface and the color of the surface is not adversely affected by the repeated exposure to the oxidizing sterilant. Preferably, the sterilant comprises hydrogen peroxide, the coloring metal comprises tin and the surface remains non-cytotoxic after the anodizing, coloring steps and sterilizing steps.

Abstract: A mixture of hydrogen peroxide and glycerol has been found to be a particularly effective composition as a preserving additive for raw materials, in particular foodstuffs. An organic acid, such as valeric acid, can be added to the mixture as stabiliser. By atomising the mixture, in combination with gentle shaking of the product to be treated in a device provided with means suitable for this purpose, an efficient treatment is effected with relatively low consumption of the preserving mixture. The shelf life of the products treated can be further increased by drying the surface thereof using sterile air.