Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for sterilizing articles using an ozone-containing gas, where condensation of water from the sterilization atmosphere during the sterilization process is substantially prevented. The inventive sterilization method includes providing a sterilization chamber and placing an article into the sterilization chamber. The sterilization chamber is sealed prior to equalizing the temperature of the article and the atmosphere in the sterilization chamber. A vacuum is applied to achieve a preselected vacuum pressure in the sterilization chamber. Once the vacuum pressure is set, water vapour is supplied to the sterilization chamber. Ozone-containing gas is then supplied to the sterilization chamber and the sterilization chamber remains sealed for a preselected treatment period, where the sterilization chamber remains sealed throughout the whole process. Finally, vacuum in the sterilization chamber is released.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A process is provided for sterilizing brachytherapy devices with Ethylene Oxide gas and releasing the devices on a parametric release basis. Devices that can be sterilized with this process include interstitial radiation seed strand implants and the needles used for implantation. In order to be sterilized effectively by EtO gas, the devices are constructed such that surfaces not readily infused with EtO gas are made to be gas permeable, and will not retain the gas after the sterilization process. Performance qualification of the sterilization process is performed through physical and microbiological studies, and set of established physical process parameters. Maintaining the physical process parameters in subsequent sterilization cycles will consistently yield the desired sterility assurance level without having to test the devices for sterility.

Abstract: A stem fog generator (1) for vehicle aromatic components into a cabin and suitable for use in a vehicle, comprising a plug part (11) and a steam fog generator body (12) foldably connected to each other, wherein the plug part (11) is cylindrically formed so as to be attachable to and detachable from an accessory socket (14), a power supply from the plug part (11) is fed to a heater (71) through an operating switch (45), a loading/unloading.

Abstract: A method using vibration for conditioning, air-conditioning, cooling and decontaminating, disinfecting and sterilizing physical media. The method includes a first vibratory action (13) performed on a regulated incoming current of the physical medium (2) so that the flow of the physical medium (2) is formed and the necessary and adequate conditions for cooling are created; a refrigerating medium (3) and a cold-absorbing medium (6) interact in a heat exchanging system (1); and another vibratory action (10) is performed on a cold-absorbing medium in order that the physical medium is continuously and/or periodically decontaminated and the necessary and adequate conditions for the functioning of the decontamination system in its steady state are created.

Abstract: A controlled odor generator, comprising a central processing unit, at least one micropump unit, a sensor unit and a fan. The micropump unit is housed in a casing containing odorous fluid and has a micropump array for ejecting the odorous fluid in tiny droplets. The central processing unit regulates operation of the micropump unit, allowing to control timing quantity and mixture of spread odor. The sensor unit provides the central processing unit with environmental data, like temperature, air density and humidity, as well as human body states for controlling the micropump unit. Environmental changes are followed by a change of spraying of odor, and varying taste and demand are adapted to.

Abstract: Apparatus for protecting a feed injector and methods of assembly are provided. In one aspect, a method of assembling a feed injector cooling apparatus includes coupling a coolant source in flow communication with a mounting flange, coupling the mounting flange to a first end of a sheath, wherein the sheath circumscribes a feed injector barrel, and coupling a cap to a second end of the sheath, wherein the cap includes a center port through which a feed injector tip projects into a gasifier.

Abstract: Systems and processes for producing hydrogen using bacteria are described. One detailed process for producing hydrogen uses a system for producing hydrogen as described herein, the system including a reactor. Anodophilic bacteria are disposed within the interior of the reactor and an organic material oxidizable by an oxidizing activity of the anodophilic bacteria is introduced and incubated under oxidizing reactions conditions such that electrons are produced and transferred to the anode. A power source is activated to increase a potential between the anode and the cathode, such that electrons and protons combine to produce hydrogen gas. One system for producing hydrogen includes a reaction chamber having a wall defining an interior of the reactor and an exterior of the reaction chamber. An anode is provided which is at least partially contained within the interior of the reaction chamber and a cathode is also provided which is at least partially contained within the interior of the reaction chamber.

Abstract: A method and device for sterilizing containers in which a plasma treatment is executed through excitation of an electromagnetic oscillation so that the plasma is excited in a vacuum in the vicinity of the container regions to be sterilized. Between arrival and discharge, the container regions to be sterilized are moved closer to the oscillation-generating device in the chamber, with continuous movement of the container and/or of the oscillation-generating device for one or more predetermined time intervals in such a way that a plasma is excited in these regions inside and/or outside the container. The chamber is provided with a transport apparatus inside it, which produces an essentially rotating motion of the container during the transport from the arrival to the discharge in the chamber.

Abstract: The present invention provides a hydrogen peroxide indicator that includes a substrate on which is disposed an indicator composition that includes at least one of a select group of colorants. As a result of contact with hydrogen peroxide, the colorants change color, and even become colorless, thereby providing an indication of the presence of hydrogen peroxide.

Abstract: A sensor main unit 1 is axially split into three sub-segments. A light-emitting element 2 is attached to one end portion, and a light-receiving element 3 is attached to the other end portion. A respiratory flow path 4 is formed so as to penetrate through the center portion. The sensor main unit 1 is attached to a position on the face below the nostrils, and respiratory gas from the nostrils is guided into the respiratory flow path 4 and is caused to cross over the optical axis connected the light-emitting element 2 and the light-receiving element 3, thereby measuring a carbon dioxide gas in the respiratory gas.

Abstract: A scent lure is configured as a reusable container with two separate compartments, one for a scent wick and one for a disposable heating element. The compartments are separated by a common dividing wall and are independently accessible for ease of use. The separate compartments allow the heating element to be removed and/or replaced without contact with the scent wick and vice versa. Preferably, the heating compartment has vents to facilitate continued activation of a heating element during use. The vents are preferably configured to provide a chimney effect that creates a heated air flow over the sent wick for enhancing the lure's effectiveness.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method and apparatus for treating goods, such as, for example, fumigating and re-cooling perishable goods, such as fruit, using a tarp and floor seal. The apparatus encloses goods on a surface and includes a canopy that is substantially impermeable to flowable materials, such as gas, liquid, or a combination thereof; an upper perimeter for supporting an upper portion of the canopy; a lower perimeter for supporting a lower portion of the canopy, the lower perimeter to be placed in proximity to the surface; a support structure for supporting the upper perimeter and lower perimeters; and a gasket in communication with the lower perimeter, wherein the gasket is deformable to substantially seal the chamber by compressing the gasket against the surface. The apparatus may also include an intermediate support structure for providing support to the canopy and a conduit in communication with the chamber to supply cool air to the chamber.

Abstract: A hydrogen peroxide vapor generation unit (10) receives hydrogen peroxide and water solution at an interface (20) and interconnects with an air dryer (14) by way of nipples (72, 92). In one embodiment, the dryer includes a clamping assembly (42) which is latched (74, 94) with the nipples and which receives a disposable desiccant cartridge (40). In an alternate embodiment, a reusable desiccant cartridge (40?) is connected directly to the nipples (72, 92). When the desiccant cartridge (40?) is saturated, it is removed and placed in a regenerator unit (120). A regenerated cartridge is installed in its place.

Abstract: A device for introducing active substances, such as aromatic substances, insecticides and the like, into ambient air, comprises a holder for a carrier with a wick impressed thereon, which carrier can be placed in the holder and is replaceable. A mechanism to be operated by hand is provided for operating an ignition element, which can be placed in the holder and is replaceable, as for instance a gas lighter, to enable a wick to be ignited when a carrier with this wick has been placed in the holder.

Abstract: A lightweight, portable, reusable oxygen generator is provided. The oxygen generator comprises a reaction chamber, a humidifier, and a cap assembly. Once assembled, oxygen of medical purity can be generated in the reaction chamber via a chemical reaction. Then, the medically pure oxygen is separated from any of the aqueous reaction mixture and ported via a built-in humidifier to a CPR mask through a tube attached to the oxygen generator.

Abstract: The present invention pertains to methods utilizing ozone treatment for abating allergens, pathogens, odors, and volatile organic compounds. The methods can be employed to abate pollutants, bacteria, viruses, mold, dander, funguses, dust mites, animal and smoke odors, and the like. The methods employ specific combinations of ozone concentration, hydrogen peroxide concentration, temperature, and humidity delivered over a specified period of time to achieve satisfactory abatement of the allergen, pathogen, odor, or volatile organic compound.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of microbial reduction and/or sterilization of impression materials, specifically elastomeric impression materials, by means of steam sterilization.

Abstract: Refrigerated containers that contain continuously circulating air or oxygen-containing gas into which ozone is injected to preserve perishable food products that are susceptible to spoilage when stored for extended periods of time are disclosed. The ozone content of the circulating air is continuously monitored by an ozone sensor and adjustments to the amount and rate of ozone injection are continuously made by a controller on the basis of signals from the ozone sensor and other sensors.

Abstract: A hydrogen generator includes a housing, a solid hydrogen source disposed within the housing, and an inlet configured to guide a fluid to contact the solid hydrogen source. The inlet can contact a wicking region. The wicking region can include a wicking material that has an affinity for the fluid. The wieking material can include a hydrophilic material. The housing can include a hydrogen gas outlet. The hydrogen generator can include an end cap at one end of the housing including the inlet and the hydrogen gas outlet. The hydrogen gas outlet can include a gas permeable membrane. The inlet can be fluidly connected to a fluid control system configured to control fluid flow rate to the solid hydrogen source. The generator can be portable.

Abstract: A filter (10) and an inflator assembly (15) for use in an inflatable vehicle passenger restraint system. The inflator assembly (15) includes an inflator housing (70) having a wall (71), a combustion chamber (72) formed in an interior of the housing (70), and a gas generant composition positioned in the combustion chamber (72) and ignitable to provide inflation gas to the inflatable occupant restraint system. The filter (10) is positioned intermediate apertures (73) in the combustion chamber (72) and apertures (19) in the inflator housing wall (71). The filter (10) includes a filter body (11) spaced apart from the housing wall (71) and at least one continuous lip (12) extending from the filter body (11). The lip (12) has a peripheral edge (75) that abuts the housing wall (71) over substantially the entire perimeter of the peripheral edge (75).

Abstract: In the present invention, there is provided a process and an apparatus for hydrogenating hydrocarbon fuels. A receptacle is partly filled an aqueous solution containing sodium hydroxide. A hydrocarbon fuel is then introduced inside the receptacle atop the aqueous solution. Aluminum is introduced in the aqueous solution, thereby producing hydrogen gas. The hydrogen gas is bubbled through the hydrocarbon fuel for hydrogenating the fuel.

Abstract: According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for generating a gas. The apparatus includes a first reactant in liquid form and a second reactant capable of generating the gas upon being mixed with the first reactant. The apparatus further includes a feeding container for holding the first reactant, a reaction container for holding the second reactant and the gas generated from mixing the first reactant and the second reactant and an output regulator for releasing the gas from the reaction container to the surrounding. A feeding valve is configured to allow a flow of the first reactant from the feeding container into the reaction container when a feeding container valve pressure is greater than a reaction container valve pressure by a predetermined difference between the feeding container valve pressure and the reaction container valve pressure.

Abstract: A transport system for an evaporation device comprises a robot holding a substrate and a mask disposed on the robot. When the substrate is transported by the robot, the mask covers the substrate to prevent contamination. The robot has a fork holding the substrate, and the mask is disposed thereon. The mask is disposed under the substrate, specifically between the substrate and the fork.

Abstract: The invention provides a method, system, and device for producing a steady flow of carbon dioxide. In one embodiment, the invention may be used as an attractant for an insect species, particularly a hematophagous insect species.

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

Abstract: A gas generating system is provided including a first housing formed from a polymeric material, and a pyrotechnic gas generant material contained in the first housing. The first housing forms a combustion chamber for the gas generant. An airbag system and a vehicle occupant protection system, each incorporating a gas generating system as described herein, are also disclosed.

Abstract: A device and method for sanitizing and deodorizing including the selective transportation of a sanitizing composition by the capillary action of a wick to an acidic composition which may be held in a reservoir, or which also may be selectively transported through the capillary action of a wick to the reservoir.

Abstract: A chemical vapor sterilization process is enhanced by concentrating a germicide via condensation and re-vaporization thereof, exploiting the difference between the vapor pressures of the germicide and its solvent to extract some of the solvent during the condensation process. A heat pump coupled with the condensation surface enhances the speed and efficiency of condensing and revaporizing the germicide.

Abstract: A hydrogen generator of the present invention is provided with: a reformer for generating a reformed gas containing hydrogen from a feed material containing an organic compound at least containing carbon and hydrogen and water; a heater for heating the reformer to a temperature required for generating the reformed gas; a carbon monoxide reducing unit having a carbon monoxide reducing catalyst for reducing carbon monoxide contained in the reformed gas generated in the reformer; and a temperature detector for detecting at least one of a temperature of the reformed gas in the carbon monoxide reducing unit and a temperature of the carbon monoxide reducing catalyst, wherein an amount of the feed material to be supplied to the reformer is controlled based on a comparison between a detected temperature detected by the temperature detector and a reference temperature set in accordance with the amount of the feed material.

Abstract: A chemical vapor sterilization process is enhanced by concentrating a germicide via exploitation of the difference between the vapor pressures of the germicide and its solvent. A diffusion restriction can be placed into the diffusion path to assist this process and the path then opened to provide rapid diffusion of the thus concentrated germicide.

Abstract: An expandable housing generator configured to occupy a small volume in a primed or standby mode, and a larger volume after the commencement of a chemical reaction to generate a gas comprising oxygen. The expandable housing generator may comprise a base housing, a top housing, a first chamber, a second chamber, and a third chamber. The three chambers may separately store components of a catalytic reaction generating the gas. The three chambers may be joined together upon actuation of an activating device. The top housing and at least one of the three chambers may extend along a vertical direction. The extension may accommodate a foam head produced during the reaction. Additionally, the extension may provide a small form factor and consequently better portability and manageability, while also providing sufficient volume to perform the chemical reactions safely and effectively.

Abstract: Provided are a thermal siphon reactor and a hydrogen generator including the same. The hydrogen generator including the thermal siphon reactor includes: a housing; a reaction source container disposed in the housing; a reactor tube connected to the reaction source container in which a catalytic reaction of a reaction source provided from the reaction source container occurs; a catalyst layer which is porous, facilitates gas generation by being contacted with the reaction source, and is disposed in the reactor tube; and a product container which is connected to the reactor tube and collects a reaction product generated in the reactor tube, wherein in the reactor tube, a convection channel through which the reaction product is discharged passes through the reactor tube in the lengthwise direction of the reactor tube. The thermal siphon reactor and the hydrogen generator including the same have a self-operating ability, operate at low costs, and have small installment volume.

Abstract: A vapor decontamination system for decontaminating a defined region. The system is comprised of a chamber defining a region, and a generator for generating vaporized hydrogen peroxide from a solution of hydrogen peroxide and water. A closed loop circulating system is provided for supplying the vaporized hydrogen peroxide to the region. A destroyer within the closed loop circulating system breaks down the vaporized hydrogen peroxide. A bypass conduit is provided to bypass the destroyer. A controller causes vaporized hydrogen peroxide from the generator to bypass the destroyer during a predetermined phase of operation.

Abstract: A nitric oxide gas generator which includes a body having a dilution inlet chamber, a chemical mixing chamber, and a dilution outlet chamber. A dilution inlet for diluent gases is provided into the dilution inlet chamber. An inlet is provided to permit entry of the diluent gases into the chemical mixing chamber. An outlet is provided to permit the exit of diluted nitric oxide gas from the chemical mixing chamber to the dilution outlet chamber. A dilution outlet is provided for removal of diluted nitric oxide gas from the dilution outlet chamber. Supports are provided for supporting chemicals to be reacted to produce nitric oxide gas. A heat source is provided to heat the chemical mixing chamber in which chemicals are mixed to initiate a chemical reaction that produces nitric oxide gas.

Abstract: Chilled coolant is prepared by liquid coolant utilizing the latent heat generated by a gasification of liquefied propylene, for example, and this chilled coolant is used in heat exchangers which are used in a process for production of acrylic acid or acrolein. This method allows effective utilization of the latent heat which used to be discarded and permits a reduction of energy consumption of cooling required separately in the step for production. By recovering the chilled coolant with the liquid coolant, it makes possible to stabilize the gasification of propylene, etc. and consequently stabilize the production of acrylic acid. This invention consists of providing the method for the production of acrylic acid, etc. and the apparatus which make effective use of the latent heat generated in the steps of production.

Abstract: A device and method for cleaning and deodorizing a unit having an enclosed space not otherwise easily accessible for cleaning and deodorizing.

Abstract: A method of diffusing a volatile component comprising mixing a volatile component from a volatile substance with air having a relative humidity of 70% or higher and diffusing the mixed vapor. A device for diffusing a volatile component comprises a volatile component volatilizing part (6) for volatilizing a volatile component from a volatile substance and a high-humidity air generating part (1) for generating high-humidity air, wherein the volatile component (B) volatilized from the volatile component volatilizing part (6) and the high-humidity air (A) generated from the high-humidity air generating part are mixed and diffused outside.

Abstract: An apparatus for sterilizing a sealed enclosure (1) includes a fan (8) for circulating a gas through a preparation circuit (11) and through the enclosure. The preparation circuit includes an evaporation chamber (10) for dispensing a decontaminant gas and water vapor mixture into the circulating gas to flow therewith through the enclosure and to reach a concentration in the enclosure above the dew point for the ambient temperature in the enclosure and thereby to condense onto surfaces in the enclosure to sterilize such surfaces. A monitor (15) measures gas temperature and dew point/condensation are monitored (17, 18) in the enclosure. The resulting signals led to a control module (19) for controlling the rate of dispensing of the decontaminant gas and water vapor into the gas in the preparation circuit in response to the levels determined by said monitoring to provide a required level of condensation of the decontaminant gas and water vapor in the enclosure.

Abstract: A flash vapor generator (10) provides a constant flow of vaporized hydrogen peroxide for rapidly sterilizing a large decontamination tunnel (11) with a high container throughput. The vaporizer includes a heated block which defines an interior bore or bores. The conditions within the decontamination tunnel are carefully monitored to avoid condensation of the vapor while maintaining the vapor as close as possible to the saturation limit.

Abstract: Contaminated water is disinfected by admixture of a highly reactive gas stream containing ions of oxygen and nitrogen, formed by exposure of air to short-wavelength ultraviolet radiation, and of chlorine, formed by electrolysis of a brine solution. Solids removal can be accomplished by electrophoresis in the same unit employed for electrolysis of brine to release chlorine, or in a separate unit.

Abstract: A scent dispersion system, comprising a heating device having a top surface, and a container of scented wax disposed upon the top surface of the heating device. Upon heating, scent from the wax is caused to disperse into the surrounding environment. The system may further comprise an air circulating fan associated with the heating device, for circulating air around the container of scented wax, to help disperse the scent.

Abstract: A chemical generator having inlets for receiving multiple reactant and water streams; a dilution chamber; a reaction chamber operably connected to the inlets and to the dilution chamber; an eductor operably receiving the water stream from the one of the inlets and communicating with the reaction chamber for drawing first and second reactant streams into the reaction chamber for mixing. Float control valves interrupt the water stream to the eductor when desired amounts of the first and second reactant streams have entered the reaction chamber, the eductor drawing the activated solution of first and second reactant streams from the reaction chamber into the dilution chamber. The float control valves limit the residence time of the first and second reactants in the reaction chamber and selectively interrupt flow of the water stream into the dilution chamber.

Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for supplying liquid for use in a plasma disinfection system. The apparatus supplies liquid for generating plasma to a reaction chamber (1) to sterilize and disinfect an item wrapped in a packaging material (10) in the reaction chamber (1). The apparatus includes: an automatic feeder (20) for automatically feeding an extremely small fixed amount of liquid via a first discharging pipe (40) by controlling a rotational speed of a DC motor (31); a vaporizer (24) connected to the first discharging pipe (40) of the automatic feeder (20) and having a first heater (26) for vaporizing the fed liquid; a second heater (22) surrounding a second discharging pipe (23) connected between the vaporizer (24) and the reaction chamber (1) to prevent any condensation of the vaporized liquid in the second discharging pipe (23); and a temperature controller (25) electrically connected to the first and second heaters (26 and 22) to control temperatures thereof.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for testing one or more sterilization indicators (e.g., biological indicators or chemical indicators) or other articles by contacting them under controlled sterilization conditions with a flowing antimicrobial gas containing hydrogen peroxide vapor are disclosed. This invention also provides apparatus and method for testing sterilization processes that use a flowing antimicrobial gas containing hydrogen peroxide vapor under controlled sterilization conditions, or for testing materials for such processes under controlled sterilization conditions, or for testing both such processes and such materials under controlled sterilization conditions. There can be an essentially square-wave contact of the sterilization indicators or other articles with the antimicrobial gas (i.e.

Abstract: A humidifier which includes a reservoir of water in fluid communication with an evaporation chamber. Some of the water that enters the evaporation chamber vaporizes and enters the ambient environment. A remainder of the water does not evaporate and flows into a collection container in fluid communication with the reservoir. The unevaporated water is then exposed to a source of ultraviolet radiation which helps to inhibit the ability of various organisms contained therein to reproduce in the future. After irradiation, the unevaporated water travels from the collection container to the reservoir.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for generating plasma in a liquid. The apparatus includes an ultrasonic wave generator for generating bubbles in the liquid, and an electromagnetic wave generator for continuously irradiating electromagnetic waves to the liquid from within the liquid in order to generate plasma. The method of generating plasma in a liquid includes the steps of generating bubbles in the liquid by irradiating ultrasonic waves in the liquid, and generating plasma in the bubbles by continuously irradiating electromagnetic waves from within the liquid to the bubbles.

Abstract: The invention provides an apparatus, methods, and compositions for dispensing a fragrance onto laundry in a dryer without substantial loss of that fragrance during the drying process. The apparatus includes an electrostatic vapor generator capable of dispensing a fragrance composition into a dryer. The invention also provides electrostatically dispensable fragrance compositions containing glycols, vegetable oils, and perfumes. The invention further provides a kit and method for enhancing residual fragrance on laundry by adding a fabric conditioning composition and a fragrance composition in separate steps during the laundering process. The invention includes embodiments wherein the dispensation of the fragrance compositions is computer controlled.

Abstract: A fuel reforming system comprises a reforming catalyst section (4) performing reformate reactions on supplied fuel gas, a membrane hydrogen separator (5) extracting hydrogen from the reformate gas, a supply device (8–14) supplying combustion gas for heating the membrane reactor (2), a sensor (16) for detecting the temperature of the membrane hydrogen separator (5) and a controller. The supply device supplies combustion gas to the membrane reactor (2) before the reforming catalyst section starts reformate reactions during startup of the membrane reactor (2). Furthermore the supply device stops supply of combustion gas to the membrane reactor (2) when the temperature of the membrane hydrogen separator (5) is greater than or equal to a target temperature. Thereafter the fuel supply device supplies fuel to the fuel reforming catalyst section (4). In this manner, hydrogen embrittlement in the membrane hydrogen separator can be avoided.

Abstract: A sulphur dioxide generator (10) is disclosed which comprises two composite sheets (12, 14). First stage release of sulphur dioxide is from a coating (26) of the composite sheet (14). The coating (26) is between a paper sheet (22) and a weldable coating (24). The coating (26) incorporates a substance which, in the presence of moisture, generates sulphur dioxide. Second stage release is from sulphur dioxide generating powder which is in pockets (30). The composite sheet (12) comprises a paper layer (16) and a weldable layer (18). The layers (24, 18) are sealed together along a series of longitudinal and transverse lines to form the pockets (30).