Abstract: An isocyanurate stabilizer to the chlorinated pool water includes a tablet of chemically pure isocyanuric acid soluble in the pool water before a chlorinated tablets are added into the pool water.

Abstract: Methods of providing anti-infective activity to a medical device including the steps of exposing the medical device to an anti-infective oxidant, and transferring the anti-infective oxidant into a wall of the medical device. One embodiment includes the step of exposing a medical device that is at least in part within a patient to the anti-infective oxidant. Another embodiment includes the steps of exposing a medical device to an aqueous solution which produces the anti-infective oxidant and transferring a sufficient amount of the anti-infective oxidant into the medical device wall to provide the medical device with anti-infective activity. Also provided is an oxidant releasing member that has anti-infective oxidant releasably contained therein and that is configured to be disposed adjacent to the medical device.

Abstract: Method and system for decontaminating letters and packages deposited with, collected by and forwarded by, e.g. the US Postal Service. Letters and packages are collected in a substantially microorganism impermeable but gas permeable receptacle which can be sealed and placed in a sterilizing gas atmosphere consisting of chlorine dioxide a diluent, and optionally water vapor.

Abstract: The invention concerns a method for mechanically cleaning and sterilizing medical and surgical instruments and appliances, which consists in: (a) cleaning the instruments and appliances with an aqueous cleaning solution and (b) sterilizing the instruments and appliances with an aqueous sterilizing solution. The invention is characterized in that chlorine dioxide is released in situ, from chlorite and an acid activator, as disinfectant during the sterilizing step. The invention is based on the use of chlorine dioxide as efficient disinfectant, not requiring separate production of said substance in a chlorine dioxide generator. The inventive method can be implemented in a standard instrument washing machine.

Abstract: The present invention provides a new method for the in situ generation of chlorine dioxide from a solution of sodium chlorite and carbon dioxide. The present invention produces effective levels of chlorine dioxide without having to resort to the use of hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, hydrogen peroxide, chlorine, sulfur dioxide, or methanol. By eliminating the use of toxic and/or hazardous compounds, the present invention provides a safer means for generating and using chlorine dioxide in a wider variety of applications than previously possible. For instance, the present invention can easily be adapted for the treatment of combustion exhaust gases, flue gases, cooling towers, chilled water systems, contaminated groundwater, and agricultural produce or products.

Abstract: A disinfectant delivery system and method of providing alcohol-free disinfection to a body to be disinfected, as well as a method of infection reduction by preparation of a patient before an invasive procedure. A blended cloth comprising first fibers and second fibers is provided with the first fibers generally being greater in quantity by weight than the second fibers. A disinfectant solution impregnates the blended cloth, with the disinfectant solution having chlorhexidine gluconate as an active ingredient and having no alcohol. In the method according to the invention, at least one impregnated blended cloth is used to disinfect at least a portion of a body. A plurality of blended cloths can be provided for disinfecting discrete portions of the body.

Abstract: A sterilization system uses a sterilization process monitoring device which is capable of indicating the efficacy of the sterilization process. To enhance accuracy of the monitoring function, the monitoring device is located in such a fashion that an antimicrobial agent used in the process can only reach the monitor through an area containing the article to be sterilized.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to frozen biocidal compositions. Specifically, the biocidal compositions comprise a frozen aqueous solution of a plurality of ions selected from the group consisting of halide and oxyhalide ions. The frozen biocidal compositions are useful in preserving or extending the shelf-life of perishable articles.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for electrochemically generating and using an aqueous solution containing chlorine dichloride and a metal hypochlorite, such as sodium hypochlorite. The aqueous solution provides a mouth rinse for oral hygiene or a sterilizing solution for surgical or dental tools or for treating drinking water. The generator comprises a chamber, an anode and a cathode disposed for fluid communication with a reservoir, and an electrical power source for applying a voltage between the anode and the cathode. The reservoir contains an electrolyte having a metal chlorite and, optionally, a metal chloride, citric acid, sweeteners, flavorings and combinations thereof. The anode is preferably a dimensionally stable anode coated with RuO2, IrO2 or combinations thereof. The cathode may be made of titanium substrate coated with platinum. The apparatus and method generate an aqueous solution containing chlorine dioxide that may be used immediately for oral hygiene.

Abstract: The present invention is a method of decontaminating a structure contaminated by pathogenic microorganisms such as bacillus anthracis and its spores, B. subtilis var niger and its spores, and B. stearothermophilus and its spores, comprising the steps of sealing a contaminated structure sufficiently to enable retention of a gas, introducing methyl bromide gas into sealed contaminated structure to a concentration of methyl bromide in an amount sufficient to deactivate said pathogenic microorganisms and disable germination of pathogenic bacteria spores, and maintaining said sealed contaminated structure with said concentration of methyl bromide at a sufficient temperature for a sufficient period of time, and deactivating said pathogenic microorganisms and disabling germination of said pathogenic bacteria spores associated with said contaminated structure. The method is performed approximately in the range of 20° C. to 40° C.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for significantly reducing the biological load on consumer products such as food products, spices, produce, botanicals, cosmetic ingredients, barrels, pallets, crates, birdseed and medical products is disclosed. The method involves applying a continuous stream of saturated steam to a material in a sealed biological burden reduction chamber. The continuous stream of saturated steam is created in said chamber by correlating a desired temperature to pressure based on the use of Saturated Steam Tables. The apparatus includes: (a) a bioburden reduction chamber; (b) a temperature controller; (c) an air injection system; (d) a steam injection system; and (e) an evacuation system.

Abstract: The present invention provides a bactericide composition comprising hypochlorous acid or a salt thereof. In particular, the present invention provides a liquid bactericide composition comprising an aqueous solution comprising hypochlorous acid and/or a salt thereof, a surfactant (B) and a pH adjusting agent (C), and having a ph valve in the range of 3 to 8 at 25° C.

Abstract: A floating device for dispersing a solute-containing solution comprised of a floatation cap in communication with a telescoping assembly having a sleeve for controlling the dispersion of the solute-containing solution is herein provided, as well as associated methods of use.

Abstract: A water treating system utilizes antimicrobial sand filter for killing bacteria and preventing microbial growth. Said antimicrobial sand filter consists of organic quaternary ammonium salt and inorganic metal compound.

Abstract: An iodine complex concentrate containing (a) from about 0.5 to about 30% by weight of iodine; (b) from about 0.2 to about 14% by weight of an iodide component selected from the group consisting of iodide salt, iodide acid and mixtures thereof; and (c) from about 2% to about 85% by weight of a nonionic sugar surfactant selected from the group consisting of alkyl glucose esters, aldobionamides, gluconamides, glyceramides, glyceroglycolipids, polygydroxy fatty acid amides, alkyl polyglycosides having the general formula I: R1O(R2O)b(Z)a  I wherein R1 is a monovalent organic radical having from about 6 to about 30 carbon atoms; R2 is divalent alkylene radical having from 2 to 4 carbon atoms; Z is a saccharide residue having 5 or 6 carbon atoms; b is a number having a value from 0 to about 12; a is a number having a value from 1 to about 6, and mixtures thereof, all weights being based on the weight of the concentrate.

Abstract: Systems and methods for effectively and economically annihilating non-indigenous marine species and pathogenic bacteria in ship ballast water. A preferred embodiment comprises adding a killing agent to ballast water tanks and subsequently adding a reducing agent to the container. Oxygen is subsequently introduced to the ballast water to eliminate any excess reducing agent, and to ensure compliance with the dissolved oxygen discharge requirements of the receiving water.

Abstract: An agent for the treatment of medical instruments is provided which is obtainable by the artificial UV irradiation of an aqueous solution containing a chemical disinfectant, optionally together with corrosion inhibitors, buffer components, complexing agents, wetting agents and/or other auxiliary substances or active substances.

Abstract: A sterilization system and process is provided which is useful in the chemical sterilization of medical supplies and equipment. The system includes a container having an internal generator of a sterilant such as chlorine dioxide. An internal container activator, such as high humidity or manual manipulation, is provided and stimulates the formation and release of the sterilant. The package includes a first indicator responsive to the release of sterilant and a second indicator which records the passage of a predetermined time interval. The combination of the sterilant indicator and the time interval indicator signals that proper sterilization conditions have been met and that the objects have been suitably sterilized.

Abstract: A sodium chlorite solution is admixed with a second solution containing an acid to make a reacted mixture. The reacted mixture is introduced into a water system, viz. a conduit in which water flows or a tank containing water. The reacted mixture is added to the water system to inhibit and/or eliminate bacterial fouling in the system, and/or inhibiting and/or removing mineral deposits from the system, and/or for reducing or eliminating microorganisms from the system. The second component is acidic enough to convert the sodium chlorite into chlorine dioxide while remaining unaffected in the reacted mixture and at the same time being a mineral antiscalant. Optimum conversion of the sodium chlorite component into active chlorine dioxide requires at least several minutes reaction time and, preferably, the use of a suitable catalyst, such as sodium molybdate.

Abstract: A mobile self-contained apparatus and process for grinding, grating, macerating, chemically disinfecting, and drying infectious waste material. A trailer (10) contains a hopper (27), a grinder/grater (28), an enclosed conveyor system, drying and filter apparatus, and sources of power, chemical disinfectant, and fresh water. Bagged infectious waste material in a cart is lifted and dumped into the hopper, sprayed with a sodium hypochlorite disinfectant solution, fed to the grinder/grater, ground, grated, and macerated into small particles of confetti-like material, sprayed again, immersed in the disinfectant solution, conveyed by an upwardly inclined screw conveyor (34) and thoroughly mixed therein, dried, passed into a vertical screw conveyor (47), and passed to a discharge screw conveyor (50) which discharges the dry confetti-like material.

Abstract: The present invention provides a new method for the in situ generation of chlorine dioxide from a solution of sodium chlorite and carbon dioxide. The present invention produces effective levels of chlorine dioxide without having to resort to the use of hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, hydrogen peroxide, chlorine, sulfur dioxide, or methanol. By eliminating the use of toxic and/or hazardous compounds, the present invention provides a safer means for generating and using chlorine dioxide in a wider variety of applications than previously possible. For instance, the present invention can easily be adapted for the treatment of combustion exhaust gases, flue gases, cooling towers, chilled water systems, contaminated groundwater, and agricultural produce or products.

Abstract: The present invention provides a composition having biological activity. The composition includes from about 10 ppm to about 5000 parts iodonium salt. The composition also includes from about 100 ppm to about 300,000 ppm of a compound to act as a carrier of the iodonium compound. The carrier is selected from at least one of polyvinyl alcohols, polyvinyl acetates, polyethylene glycols, ethylene glycol and propylene glycol block copolymers, cellulosic polymers, polyesters, alkyd polymers. The composition also includes from about 50 ppm to about 50,000 ppm of a compound to render the composition compatible with a surface being treated. This component is selected from at least one of di-acids, acid anhydrides, polyfunctional acids, di-ethylene glycol, resorcinol and the like. The composition also includes an appropriate vehicle selected from at least one of water, acidified water, paint, primer, and petroleum distillates.

Abstract: The invention provides in a water injection system and in a water injection process for secondary oil and/or gas recovery, the presence and use of a biocidally-effective amount of a sulfamate-stabilized, bromine-based biocide with injection water that is to be used in the system or process such that bromine-based biocide is present in at least a portion of the system and/or in at least a portion of the water in the system. A composition especially adapted for use in secondary oil recovery operations, is comprised of seawater with which has been blended a biocidally-effective amount of a sulfamate-stabilized, bromine-based biocide.

Abstract: The present invention provides a mixture and method for remediating air dispersed biological particles. The mixture contains a carrier, an active biocidal ingredient, and a deliquescent which are mixed, heated and then grinded into biocidal particles approximately 1-50 microns in size. The biocidal particles are then dispersed into the air infected with biological particles using an aerosol generator and similar device. The biocidal particles may be charged to attract the biological particles and the carrier assists in attaching to the biological particles. Upon exposure to ambient humidity the deliquescent dissolves and allows the active biocidal ingredient to react creating a chemical byproduct which attacks and remediates the biological particles. The present invention may utilize two mixtures with two separate active biocidal ingredients which react with one another to create the desired chemical byproduct such as chlorine dioxide. The chemical byproduct may be hydrogen peroxide.

Abstract: Reduced stabilization time of oxidation-reduction potential is achieved in a recreational body of water by baseloading bromide ions and dialkylhydantoin prior to biocidal treatment of the water body with N,N′-dihalo-5,5-dialkylhydantoin.

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: The invention relates to a method for flushing particle-bearing filter beds which are located in circuit or linear water-treatment plants, to sterilise and decontaminate said beds. The method is characterised in that an aqueous solution containing chlorine oxide and/or halogen and/or peroxide is left to act on the deposits of the particle-type filter bed and said bed is subsequently flushed with water or an aqueous medium, to remove the reaction products caused by the aforementioned process and any residual chlorine oxides or halogens or peroxides.

Abstract: An electric submersible pump has one or more components coated with a biocide-incorporated coating for the purpose of controlling the activity of bacteria. The portions exposed to well fluid are coated for inhibiting bacteria from growing. Both centrifugal and progressing cavity pumps are applicable.

Abstract: An antimicrobial agent includes silver-chloro complex salts and chloride, and further oxidizing agents such as sodium hypochlorite or sodium chlorite. As a result, it is possible to provide the antimicrobial agent having immediate and residual disinfecting and antimicrobial effects on bacteria and molds of a wide variety of species and capable of demonstrating instantaneous deodorizing effect. The antimicrobial agent includes the silver-chloro complex salts and chloride, and further a compound, for example, such as alcohols or surfactants, which has compatibility with a solvent such as water which dissolves the chloride. As a result, it is possible to provide the antimicrobial agent which can be used conveniently at the stored concentration, and which has immediate effect and cleansing ability without causing rust or deposition of salts in use.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for inhibiting or eliminating the growth of microorganisms in pesticide suspensions. More particularly, the process of the present invention includes the addition of a combination of peracetic acid, hydrogen peroxide, and water to the pesticide suspension. Further, the process of the present invention includes the application of the peracetic acid, hydrogen peroxide, and water combination to the interior surface of the vessel in which the pesticide suspension is contained. Still further, the process of the present invention includes the application of the peracetic acid, hydrogen peroxide, and water combination to a surface in which the pesticide suspension is in contact.

Abstract: Raw water is treated with chlorine, chlorine dioxide and ammonia in various stages as it proceeds from raw water acquisition through clarification (e.g., coagulation, flocculation, sedimentation, and filtration) to storage of finished water from which the treated water can be introduced into a distribution system. Chlorine dioxide can be used as a pre-oxidant or disinfectant. Chlorine can be used as a disinfectant or to react with ammonia to produce monochloramine.

Abstract: Novel compositions are described for use in nitrate removal and treatment of water such as water and wastewater streams produced by processes in mining operations, agriculture industries operations, industrial operations, military operations, etc. These novel compositions are also useful for the treatment of water and wastewater streams associated with the running of industries and with the production and maintenance of livestock. Advantages of these novel compositions include use of them without need for pH adjustment and/or the presence of electropositive metals, inorganic acid, or alkaline compounds. One embodiment of these novel compositions comprises: (1) a sufficient amount of organic modified clay, (2) a highly crosslinked carbohydrate polymer with branched-chain structure containing sulfide and/or disulfide groups, or an alloy or blend of such a polymer with triazine-trithione sodium salt, (3) high swelling sodium bentonite or calcium bentonite, and (4) activated carbon.

Abstract: A pseudo-plastic or thixotropic carrier having anti-malodorous components dissolved or suspended therein is sprayed on the internal surfaces of an ostomy bag or pouch. The viscoelastic properties of the carrier allow the composition to be conveniently dispensed from a spray bottle into the ostomy bag and retained on the inner walls thereof without being displaced therefrom by incoming waste during use of the ostomy bag. This allows the composition to continue to deodorize the ostomy bag headspace even after waste material begins to fill the bag.

Abstract: A chlorine dioxide gas producing apparatus has a first reaction component contained therein and a second reaction component contained therein. The first and second reaction components are separated within the apparatus by at least one rupturable membrane. To activate the apparatus, the at least one rupturable membrane is ruptured to permit contact between the first and second reaction components to facilitate a chemical reaction therebetween which produces chlorine dioxide gas. The apparatus is adapted for releasing chlorine dioxide gas produced therein. The apparatus may be placed into an enclosure containing articles to be treated and the enclosure then closed to permit a concentration of chloride dioxide gas produced by the apparatus sufficient to treat the at least one article to fill the enclosure.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to new and improved solutions for packaging contact lenses and to methods for treating contact lenses with such solutions to improve the comfort of the lenses during wear. In particular, the present invention is directed to packing solutions comprising certain non-ionic surfactants containing a poly(oxyalkylene) copolymer and having a molecular weight of 4000 to 30,000. Such surfactants are retained on the surface of an unused lens for extended periods of time, resulting in surface modification that persists in the eye, thereby providing significant improvement in the wetting properties of fresh contact lenses used for the first time and, moreover, even several hours after lens insertion, preventing dryness and improving lubricity.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for disinfecting and/or sterilizing the hydraulic circuit within a dental unit by using active solutions.

Abstract: Disclosed are apparatus for delivery of a gas, e.g., carbon dioxide and/or chlorine dioxide, and methods of its use and manufacture. The apparatus includes a sachet constructed in part with a hydrophobic material. The sachet contains one or more reactants that generate a gas in the presence of an initiating agent, e.g., water. The apparatus can also include a barrier layer and/or a rigid frame. In another embodiment, the apparatus is combined with a reservoir that can be used to deliver a gas to the reservoir and, optionally, a conduit. In another embodiment, the apparatus is incorporated into a fluid dispersion system that includes a dispersion apparatus, e.g., a humidifier.

Abstract: A system and method for disinfecting and detoxifying an enclosed space includes a generator for producing ClO2 in aqueous solution via reactions of a hydroxy carboxylic acid, a companion acid that substantially does not react with an alkali metal salt of a chlorite ion, and an alkali metal salt of a chlorite ion. Substantially pure gaseous ClO2 is stripped through a packed column, the effluent air flow from the stripper containing pure ClO2. The gaseous ClO2 product is added to the enclosed space at a predetermined concentration for a predetermined period of time sufficient to substantially destroy airborne microbial contamination therein, after which the enclosed space is evacuated. A second aspect of the present invention is a system and method for disinfecting surfaces, including an apparatus for generating aqueous ClO2. The aqueous ClO2 is diluted to a predetermined concentration and applied to a surface desired to be disinfected.

Abstract: A method and apparatus or system for de-contaminating and/or sanitizing mail in which a quantity of mail is placed into a confined chamber and the atmosphere in the chamber is evacuated to provide a sub-atmospheric pressure. The chamber is filled with an active gas that deactivates or degrades targeted bio-hazardous materials, and, after a pre-selected perio of time, the gas is evacuated from the confined chamber.

Abstract: The present invention involves a system and method of treating a porous material of a vehicle wherein the porous material has microorganisms. The method includes providing first and second antimicrobial solutions. The method further includes applying the first antimicrobial solution to the porous material and scrubbing the first antimicrobial solution and the porous material so that the first solution contacts the microorganisms. The method further includes applying the second antimicrobial solution heated at a predetermined temperature to the porous material after a predetermined time upon applying the first solution. The method further includes removing the first and second antimicrobial solutions and the microorganisms from the porous material.

Abstract: The present invention discloses the use of an electrolysis cell (30,40,50-52) to provide for super chlorination of cooling tower water. Halogens naturally present in the water are concentrated by evaporation and provide the starting material for the production of oxyhalite compounds (typically to a level of superchlorination) as a biocide. The biocide is recycled thereby avoiding the cost of chemicals. The level of atmospheric polluants, and particulate matter especially, is thought to be the determining factor in biocide consumption.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for generating a homogeneous aqueous mist solution containing a solvent such as water and a biocide agent such as chlorine dioxide, which would otherwise be unstable. The unstable biocide agent or chlorine dioxide is quickly dissolved or mixed with a mist of solvent causing the biocide agent to co-exist or co-mist therewith. The mist microencapsulates the biocide gas so that it does not decompose in the fumigation volume or space. The resulting homogenous mist solution provides a mist for delivering the biocide agent in a chemically stable form.

Abstract: Method, composition and system for generating chlorine dioxide gas in a controlled release manner by combining at least one metal chlorite and a dry solid hydrophilic material that reacts with the metal chlorite in the presence of water vapor, but does not react with the metal chlorite in the substantial absence of liquid water or water vapor to produce chlorine dioxide gas in a sustained amount of from about 0.001 to 1,000 ppm.

Abstract: Provided herein are systems and methods associated therewith for killing molds and reducing other contaminating bioburden that may include bacteria and their spores, yeast, and viruses within various dwellings including homes, office buildings, institutions, and any other enclosed space in which humans reside, either temporarily or permanently. The technology of the present invention can be used to treat vehicles, airplanes, and ships. A process according to the invention includes the generation of a gaseous oxyhalogen species and distribution of the gaseous oxyhalogen species throughout a selected dwelling. It has been unexpectedly found that the concentration level of gaseous oxyhalogen species necessary to kill molds according to the inventive methods is far below that previously recognized in the art as being necessary for the killing of such molds. Thus, mold infestations may be killed in dwellings with minimal disruption to the usual business of the inhabitants.

Abstract: Stabilized bromine solutions are prepared by combining a bromine source and a stabilizer to form a mixture, and then adding an oxidizer to the mixture.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a biocidal composition, designed for the generation of chlorine dioxide, comprising at least one iodo-compound having at least one iodine atom and a source of chlorite ions. The molar ration of chlorite ions to iodine atoms is 2 or greater. The composition finds use in a variety of applications including methods of cleaning, sanitizing, deodorizing, and disinfecting various surfaces.

Abstract: Expanded amorphous aluminum silicate (EAAS) is used as a vehicle for a chlorite salt. This vehicle, when exposed to moisture, will release chlorine dioxide (ClO2) for purposes of deodorization or microbial suppression. Thus, where a particular area or volume is to be deodorized or made less microbially contaminated, the EAAS-chlorite salt (most preferably sodium chlorite) is placed in the area or volume to be treated and moisture is permitted to interact with the material. The result of the moisture is to permit the chemical reaction (presumably acidification) of the chlorite salt to yield dioxide gas. While normal EAAS has some inherent acidity, the inherent acidity is low enough so that, even when a chloride salt is encapsulated in the EAAS and the resultant mixture exposed to moisture, ClO2 release is very slow and over an extended period.

Abstract: A soil biocide formulation for aqueous delivery comprising from about 50 to 99% by weight of the formulation of a fumigant preferably selected from the group consisting of methyl bromide, chloropicrin, 1-3 dichloropropene (Telone), propargyl bromide, dimethyl disulphide methylisothiocyanate and mixtures of them; and from about 50 to 1% emulsifier with the emulsifier being comprised of non-ionic and anionic surfactants.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for providing a contact surface which is continuously sanitized with a sanitizing fluid. A reservoir contains the sanitizing fluid. A contact material has a porous contact surface in fluid communication with the reservoir. A moisture control and fluid distribution system determines the moisture level of the porous surface and, upon determining that the moisture level thereof has reached a predetermined level, causes a flow of the sanitizing fluid from the reservoir to the contact material. The contact material comprises a durable, porous outer layer configured for evenly distributing the sanitizing fluid to the contact surface and a backing layer bonded to the outer layer to provide a seal there between.

Abstract: A water soluble sanitising composition comprises a chlorinated isocyanurate and an effervescent alkali base, the effervescent base comprising sodium carbonate agent, adipic acid and sodium bicarbonate in a weight ratio of approximately 1:1:1 to provide a sanitising solution having a pH of from 6.8 to 7.4. A method for sanitising a product such as in-ovo injection equipment comprises the step of dissolving the composition in water to form a sanitising solution and flushing the in-ovo injection equipment with the sanitising solution prior to each in-ovo injection.