Abstract: A process for dry sterilization of medical devices and materials in which these materials are subjected to an electrical discharge in a gaseous atmosphere to produce an active plasma for surface sterilization of the devices and materials.

Abstract: The growth of algae and algae-like microorganisms on wood surfaces normally in contact with an aqueous system's water may be controlled by applying to the wood a solution of a certain biocidal agent and then flooding the wood with sufficient water to exceed the solubility limit of such agent in the solvent used.

Abstract: A system for treating articles, preferably with a sterilizing, gas is disclosed. The system includes a chamber into which the articles are received and valves for supplying the sterilizing gas to the chamber and for removing the gas from the chamber after a predetermined time period. The sterilizing gas is generated on site from at least two components, thus minimizing problems in the transportation of the gas to the location. The sterilizing gas generated on site is preferably chlorine dioxide and the two components may be chlorine gas and sodium chlorite. The system includes a programmed microprocessor controller for controlling the valves executing a predetermined sequence of instructions. The predetermined sequence of instructions define a state diagram for the system having a plurality of successive states. In order to provide for system safety, the controller preferably employs a plurality of abort states to which the system returns in the event of a failure.

Abstract: Each of a plurality of modules (A) have fitings (14) with automatically closed check valves (16) therein such that the interior of the module is sealed. The module is selectively interconnected with a sterilizer apparatus (B). Interconnecting tubing (60) selectively supplied liquid from a reservoir (30) to the module. A sterilant injection chamber (56) receives and punctures a sterilant ampule such that incoming water mixes with the sterilant concentrate forming a sterilant solution which is carried to the reservoir. A reservoir outlet valve (70) selectively permits the sterilant solution to pass from the reservoir through the interconnecting tubing into the module until the module and interconnecting tubing are completely filled. Thereafter, the reservoir outlet valve closes holding the sterilant in the interconnecting tubing as well as the module for sufficient duration to sterilize both. Concurrently, additional tap water is heated in the reservoir until it is sterile.

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 technique and receptacle for disinfecting biological fluids such as whole blood is described in which the disinfectant is prepositioned in a receptacle for biological fluids utilized for clinical evaluation in an amount which is sufficient to disinfect the fluid without interfering with subsequent clinical evaluation. The invention is specifically directed to disinfecting viral contaminants in blood by providing a closed container for the blood specimen which contains an amount of a disinfectant sufficient to destroy without otherwise affecting the integrity of the specimen for future evaluation. The amount of disinfectant positioned in the container is adjusted to provide an ultimate concentration in the blood specimen of aldehyde of about 0.001 to 5.0 weight percent and is buffered to a pH of about 7.2 to 8.5 percent preferably about 7.4.

Abstract: A composition and method of cleansing and regenerating contaminated filtration membranes is described together with the synergized antimicrobial aqueous solution of an inorganic peroxide and a polymeric solubilized iodine complex. The membrane to be regenerated is of the type used in ultrafiltration, reverse osmosis and microfiltration and the construction and composition of the member is per se known.

Abstract: A process and composition for use in the deacidification of cellulosic materials, such as books and printed papers, which comprises treating the materials under vacuum condition with a gaseous mixture of ammonia, and an organo epoxide reagent selected from the group consisting of alkyl compounds or mixtures thereof, and which produce in situ primary, secondary and tertiary amino compounds upon reaction with the ammonia.

Abstract: A virus-infected body fluid is decontaminated as it is being collected, before it has had an opportunity to clot or thicken and before attending personnel are exposed to it, by introducing a suitable viricidal into the tubing through which the fluid is transported from the fluid source to a collection receptacle in an amount and concentration sufficient to substantially reduce the virus population in the collected fluid. In applications where suction is used to pull the fluid through the tubing, a venturi is used to draw a metered amount of liquid viricidal from a container into the tubing, and in cases when the fluid is transported by gravity, an in-line filter containing a suitable viricidal is connected in line with the tubing, the viricidal being leached from the filter by the fluid flowing through it. In both cases, the viricidal is thoroughly mixed with the fluid and continues to act on the collected fluid until its disposal.

Abstract: A broad spectrum preservative composition which comprises (a) a formaldehyde donor and (b) a halopropynyl compound; formulations containing such compositions, particularly personal care and household products; and a method of inhibiting the growth of microorganisms which includes contacting said microorganisms with the preservative composition.

Abstract: The method and apparatus are designed to permit of sterilizing surgical instruments by inducing electrolysis in a water solution having pH-value of between 5 and 7.5 and a concentration of chloride ions between 0.45 and 0.85 g/l; the electrolyte is buffered with each sterilizing cycle, and its condition monitored continuously.

Abstract: A composition comprising 2-n-octyl isothiazolone 5-chloro-2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one and 2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one has been found to provide superior preservative performance as compared to the individual components.

Abstract: A composition characterized in that it comprises one or more interhalogens or sources thereof and one or more acids or sources thereof which are not appreciably oxidized by the interhalogen(s) is disclosed.When diluted with water to in-use solution strength, such may be used in an ambient cleaning and/or disinfecting process in accordance with the present invention particularly for milk- or food-handling equipment.

Abstract: The copper corrosion rate is minimized to a certain discharge limit by providing a chlorine-bromide treatment in which the chemical feed rate of bromide is increased to an amount required to decrease the copper corrosion rate to the rate required to meet the discharge limit. The inventors made the unexpected and surprising discovery that an increase in the chemical feed rate of bromide--even when the chlorine feed rate is constant--has the effect of reducing copper corrosion. Therefore, this effect is useful for adjusting the copper corrosion rate to an optimum rate to most economically achieve a certain discharge limit.

Abstract: A solubilizer for water-insoluble aliginates consisting essentially of a salt which releases fluorine ions when dissolved in water, an aqueous solution of the solubilizer and a dissolving method with use of the aqueous solution are described.

Abstract: A process for dry sterilization of medical devices and materials in which these materials are subjected to an electrical discharge in a gaseous atmosphere to produce an active plasma to produce electrically active neutral species for surface sterilization of the devices and materials.

Abstract: Contact lenses can be cleaned effectively in a short time, by using a kit for contact lens cleaning which comprises an oxidizing agent for removing stains adhering to contact lenses and a reducing agent for making nontoxic the oxidizing agent still remaining after stain removal and wherein the oxidizing agent and the reducing agent are each in such a form that when they are placed in water substantially simultaneously, the major portion of the oxidizing agent dissolves in the water more rapidly than the major portion of the reducing agent. Further, with this kit, the cleaned contact lenses can be made nontoxic without fail.

Abstract: N-chloro and N-bromo derivatives of 2-imidazolidinones having substituents at the 4 and 5 positions of the ring are described. More particularly, there are described dichloro, dibromo-, and chlorobromo- derivatives of 2-imidazolidinones having at least three substituents selected from alkyl, alkoxy, hydroxy and substituted phenyl, e.g., para-substituted phenyl, at the 4 and 5 positions on the ring. These N-halo compounds are biocides, e.g., bactericides, and are useful as disinfectants and sanitizers.

Abstract: A method of automatic brushless removal of existing soil and long term maintenance cleaning of flush toilet bowls with bromide activated hypochlorite salts. A solution which yields hypochlorite ions in a concentration of 30 to 100 ppm, and bromide ions in a concentration of 0.1 to 20 ppm is dispensed into the toilet bowl with each flush.

Abstract: A composition of calcium hypochlorite and from about 0.1 to about 3.0 percent by weight water soluble aluminum-containing inorganic salt is provided and can be used to disinfect a water body, e.g., a swimming pool, and enhance the water clarity.

Abstract: The present invention provides a solid bleaching block on the basis of an alkali metal monopersulphate for use in an in-cistern dispensing device, also comprising at least 5% by weight of an alkaline earth metal soap. By the use of these soaps, blocks are obtained which release the bleaching agent at an acceptable rate yet maintain their block structure.

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 pressure feeder for controlled addition of dissolvable agent into a flowing liquid has been designed which provides constant concentration of the agent in the treated liquid. This concentration is independent from the flow rate and the pressure of the liquid and also slugging of the agent at zero flow rate is avoided. A feeder according to the invention comprises a dissolution chamber connectable to a point of slightly increased pressure in the main circuit in which dissolution chamber the liquid is brought in controlled contact with stacked tablets of the agent. A linear weir controls the height of the liquid level in the dissolution chamber such that is proportional to the flow rate. The provision of a holding chamber for treated liquid which is connected to the dissolution chamber incorporates a gas volume that automatically adjusts for pressure differences and enables the liquid level in the dissolution chamber as well as the concentration of the agent in the treated liquid to be pressure independent.

Abstract: Each of a plurality of modules (A) have fittings (14) with automatically closed check valves (16) therein such that the interior of the module is hermetically sealed. The module is selectively interconnected with a sterilizer apparatus (B). Interconnecting tubing (60) selectively supplies liquid from a reservoir (30) to the module. A sterilant injection chamber (56) receives and punctures a sterilant ampule such that incoming water mixes with the sterilant concentrate forming a sterilant solution which is carried to the reservoir. A reservoir outlet valve (70) selectively permits the sterilant solution to pass from the reservoir through the interconnecting tubing into the module until the module and interconnecting tubing are completely filled. Thereafter, the reservoir outlet valve closes holding the sterilant in the interconnecting tubing as well as the module for sufficient duration to sterilize both. Concurrently, additional tap water is heated in the reservoir until it is sterile.

Abstract: A composition for the automatic cleaning of toilet bowls includes at least one amine oxide, at least one appropriate colorant and at least one pH regulating agent, the composition being such that the pH of the aqueous mixture in the toilet bowl is about 6.3.+-.0.5. The composition is applied by filling containers designed to be used especially in the reservoir or tank of the toilet bowl.

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: The use in the treatment of swimming pool water of trichloroisocyanuric acid, the mass median particle diameter of which is from 1 to 20 mm.

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: A sterilizing device includes a heating chamber having a reservoir containing a substantially inert, vaporizable liquid having a boiling point sufficiently high to kill microorganisms unsafe for humans. The sterilizing liquid is heated to boiling by a heater submerged therein. The articles to be sterilized are placed in a perforated tray located in the chamber above the reservoir and are contacted by a blanket of substantially saturated vapors of the sterilizing liquid. A temperature controller turns the heater off and on in response to the vapor blanket rising to and falling below a predetermined level above the tray. A counter counting the number of electrical impulses or cycles thereafter transmitted to the heater turns off the heater after a predetermined number of such cycles and a fan or similar cooling apparatus is energized to cool the chamber and condense the vapors.

Abstract: Organosilicon quaternary ammonias and other microbicidal compounds are bound to the surface of discrete inorganic particles such as glass spheres. Inorganic particles coated with the microbicidal compounds are used in hospital fluidized beds, air filters, and other products in which microbicidal qualities are desired.

Abstract: A method for sterilizing a substantially gas impermeable surface which is contaminated with spores comprises the steps of exposing the surface to a humid gaseous environment to enhance the susceptibility of the spores to subsequent chemosterilization, and then exposing the spores to an amount of gaseous chlorine dioxide in an inert carrier gas effective to sterilize the surface and a method for sterilizing an article contaminated with spores which comprises exposing the surface to a gaseous atmosphere comprised of chlorine dioxide gas and water vapor, wherein the amount of water vapor in said atmosphere is adapted to enhance the susceptibility of said spores to the sporicidal action of chlorine dioxide.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for sterilizing objects, particularly hands, is disclosed in which an object is immersed in an agitated bed of small, porous particles charged with a liquid disinfectant. The agitated particles strike the object and release a microscopic amount of disinfectant onto the surface of the object, thereby killing contaminating microorganisms on the object.

Abstract: A cleaning and disinfecting article of manufacture and method are provided wherein the cleaning and disinfecting article of manufacture comprises a cleaning and disinfecting ingredient which includes a cleaning and disinfecting agent, a solid color indicator composition which includes a color indicator agent and a matrix agent supporting the color indicator agent, wherein the matrix agent is a matrix salt; and a stabilizing salt. The cleaning and disinfecting ingredient has a bleaching tendency relative to the color indicator agent such that when the solid color indicator composition is in an aqueous solution of the cleaning and disinfecting ingredient, the presence of the cleaning and disinfecting ingredient in the solution minimizes the display of color in the solution for as long as significant amounts of the cleaning and disinfecting ingredient are present.

Abstract: Recirculating water used in closed cycle air-conditioning systems is treated with a 3-chloro-2-oxazolidinone derivative, e.g., 3-chloro-4,4-di(C.sub.1 -C.sub.4)alkyl-2-oxazolidinones such as 3-chloro-4,4-di-methyl-2-oxazolidinone, to prevent the growth of Legionella pneumophila therein.

Abstract: A pool chemical dispenser is provided that comprises a rotatably adjustable top, a container and a ballast disk cooperative with the top such that the specific gravity of the material of the top and the container is less than 1.0 and the specific gravity of the material of the ballast disk is greater than 1.0 thereby permitting the dispenser to float off the bottom of the skimmer in which it is immersed in water when less than about 10% of the pool chemical remains in the container and invert, remaining on the top of the surface of the water to indicate the pool chemical is exhausted.

Abstract: Method for clarifying bodies of water and removing staining from the containers therefor, particularly swimming pools, by the addition of chlorine and/or bromine ion and ammonium ion to the water.

Abstract: A dispenser for soluble pool chemicals is provided having a child-resistant rotatably openable top utilizing an angled detent and a deformable stop to resist rotation until a threshold amount of rotative force is applied, the top being adjustably openable to control the amount of pool chemicals dispensed via dispensing openings in a ballast disk that is fixed in place by the interlocking of interlocking recesses with locking tabs on the neck of the dispenser container to permit the top with its dispensing openings to rotate relative to the disk to uncover the dispensing openings in the disk to the desired amount.

Abstract: A process for detecting the depletion of a cleaning and disinfecting ingredient in a solution such as the water present in a toilet tank and bowl. A solid composition comprising a color indicator in a matrix is located in the solution along with the ingredient. The porosity of the solid composition is maintained within limits to provide a means for controlling the rate of release of the color indicator into the solution. The cleaning and disinfecting ingredient has a bleaching tendency relative to the color indicator so that a display of color is minimal or non-existent for as long as significant amounts of the ingredient are present. The color indicator is provided in sufficient amounts so that, when considering the controlled rate of release, there will be continued release of color indicator after depletion of the ingredient. This will then provide a substantial display of color whereby depletion of the ingredient can be detected.

Abstract: A patient-care system is disclosed comprising a container housing a device that delivers an agent for controlling the presence of pathogens. Also, the device and a method are disclosed using the device for preventing pathogenic infections.

Abstract: An article and method for disinfecting a toilet bowl and providing the bowl water with a blue tint or hue, which tint or hue resists oxidation by the disinfecting agent. The article comprises a first product chamber containing a first cleaning composition, said composition including the dye Color Index Dye No. 52,035, and a second product chamber containing a second cleaning composition including a disinfectant agent selected from the group consisting of 1,3-dibromo-5,5-dimethylhydantoin, 1,3-dichloro-5,5-dimethylhydantoin 1-bromo-3-chloro-5,5-dimethylhydantoin, dichloroisocyanuric acid and its sodium and potassium salts, and trichloroisocyanuric acid, the bowl water after the dispensing of the article having an available chlorine concentration of from about 0.1 to about 5.0 ppm, the weight ratio of available chlorine to dye being from about 1:1 to about 20:1. The Color Index Dye No.

Abstract: A process for producing a color display means of the type used for detecting the depletion of a cleaning and disinfecting ingredient in a solution such as the water present in a toilet tank and bowl. The display means comprises a solid composition which includes a color indicator in a matrix, and this composition is located in the solution along with the cleaning and disinfecting ingredient. The cleaning and disinfecting ingredient has a bleaching tendency relative to the color indicator so that a display of color is minimal or non-existent for as long as significant amounts of the ingredient are present. The color indicator will, however, provide a substantial display of color after depletion of the ingredient whereby depletion of the ingredient can be detected. The porosity of the solid composition is maintained within limits to provide a means for controlling the rate of release of the color indicator into the solution.

Abstract: A method of, and a device for, providing a disinfectant carried by a water supply flowing through a conduit, comprising introducing a predetermined portion of the water into a sealed container having a reservoir and a chamber below the reservoir in intercommunication therewith, the reservoir holding a quantity of iodine crystals and being of a predetermined size sufficient to hold a quantity of water proportional to the maximum flow rate attainable through the conduit and such that a minimum concentration of 120 parts per million (milligrams per liter) is obtainable as an outflow from the container when the supply of water is at least above freezing, the predetermined portion of the water being introduced into the chamber and outflowing from the reservoir above the iodine crystals whereby all said water portion passes between the iodine crystals. The device includes inlet means opening into the chamber and outlet means opening from the reservoir above the iodine crystals.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for cleansing and disinfecting a toilet tank and toilet bowl by treating the water discharged from the toilet tank each time the toilet is flushed. A passive dosing dispenser that automatically dispenses a disinfectant with each flush is provided in the tank to carry out the cleansing and disinfecting method. The dispenser comprises a series of chambers in fluid communication including a reservoir containing the source of disinfectant, a vented volume control chamber, a delivery tube provided with a dispensing orifice in dynamic fluid communication with liquid in the toilet tank, and a vented standpipe. The respective chambers have volumes selected to provide a controlled dispensing action, and the arrangement of chambers is such that the concentration of the aqueous disinfectant solution discharged remains substantially constant upon repetitive flushing, and/or during extended quiescent periods.

Abstract: Improved methods of disinfecting and/or preserving contact lenses comprises treating said lenses with an effective concentration of a solution comprising a biguanide or a water soluble salt of the formula: ##STR1## wherein R.sub.1 and R.sub.3 are selected hydrogen, halogen, alkyl, alkoxy, nitro, --SO.sub.2 R.sub.4, carboxyl or hydroxyl where R.sub.4 is --NH.sub.2, --NHR', --NR'R", --OR' or --O--aryl in which R' and R" are alkyl or alkoxy; R.sub.2 is hydrogen or halogen and X is hydrogen or alkyl, provided that when R.sub.2 is halogen then both R.sub.1 and R.sub.3 are hydrogen and X is alkyl. The method provides for disinfecting and/or preserving contact lenses wherein the monomeric biguanide-containing solutions offer a wide spectrum of antimicrobial activity with nominal binding and concentrating onto lens surfaces and low levels of eye tissue irritation or inflammation.

Abstract: A method for sanitizing flush toilets wherein a sanitizing agent and a triphenylmethane dyestuff are dispensed into the toilet flush water. The dyestuff is resistant to attack by the sanitizing and therefore provides an aesthetically pleasing color to the water remaining in the bowl during the time period between flushes.

Abstract: A method for sanitizing flush toilets wherein a sanitizing agent and a triphenylmethane dyestuff are dispensed separately from a dual dispensing means into the toilet flush water. The dyestuff is resistant to attack by the sanitizing agent and therefore provides an aesthetically pleasing color to the water remaining in the bowl during the time period between flushes.

Abstract: A germicidal solution effective for disinfection of solid surfaces to destroy or to inactivate bacteria, microorganisms, protozoa, molds and viruses and the like contaminating said surfaces which comprises a polyvinylpyrrolide-aqueous solution of elemental iodine, a water-soluble iodide, and potassium bromide, said solution containing a sufficiently high concentration of elemental iodine to effect said destruction or inactivation.

Abstract: An article of manufacture comprising a calcium hypochlorite cake composition in an improved particle retaining means which comprises a water-permeable polyvinyl chloride (PVC) bonded polyester (PET) filter sleeve which envelopes and supports the cake. The filter sleeve is designed to be rigid to avoid collapse in use, wicks water for improved cake contact, and is bleach resistant to insure a long product life.

Abstract: The use of gaseous chlorine dioxide to sterilize surfaces, especially the gas impermeable surfaces of implements commonly employed in the medical sciences, such as those formed from porcelain, ceramics, metal, plastics and glass. The contaminated surfaces are contacted with an effective amount of gaseous chlorine dioxide for a time sufficient to kill bacterial spores at a temperature which does not overly exceed ambient temperature.

Abstract: Liquid disinfectant and/or sanitizer cleaning compositions are provided in the form of homogeneous aqueous solutions which comprise water, a germicidal quaternary ammonium halide compound and a glycoside surfactant and in which the weight ratio of the quaternary ammonium halide compound to the glycoside surfactant is at least 0.65!1. Such compositions may also optionally include additional ingredients such as water soluble detergent builders, water miscible organic solvents, hydrotropes, perfumes, dyes, colorants, thickeners, soil suspending agents, deodorizers, ammonia, aerosol propellants and the like.