Abstract: A method of sequestering carbon dioxide (CO2) in an ocean comprises testing an area of the surface of a deep open ocean in order to determine both the nutrients that are missing and the diffusion coefficient, applying to the area in a spiral pattern a first fertilizer that comprises a missing nutrient, and measuring the amount of carbon dioxide that has been sequestered. The fertilizer preferably comprises an iron chelate that prevents the iron from precipitating to any significant extent. The preferred chelates include lignin, and particularly lignin acid sulfonate. The method may further comprise applying additional fertilizers, and reporting the amount of carbon dioxide sequestered. The method preferably includes applying a fertilizer in pulses. Each fertilizer releases each nutrient over time in the photic zone and in a form that does not precipitate.

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: A method of preserving two or more separately packaged agents for forming a silicone composition which can be cured by mixing the separately packaged agents, which method can reduce the number of air bubbles contained in a cured product of the silicone composition and prevent a reduction in the strength of the cured product. The method of preserving the composition is characterized by keeping each packaged agent of the curable silicone composition under reduced pressure.

Abstract: Stable biocide formulations containing oxidizing bromine are provided for biofouling control in industrial water systems. The formulations contain at least one stable oxidizing bromine compound that is prepared from at least one oxidizing chemical reagent, at least one bromine source and at least one bromine or halogen stabilizer. The resulting products are a mixture of stable oxidizing bromine compounds that can be used as a biocide in an industrial water system.

Abstract: A method for fumigation perishables within an existing refrigerated cargo container that does not require the refrigerated cargo container to be tented. The method uses the inherent characteristics of the cargo container to form the fumigation chamber environment. The method insures that the cargo container is fit for fumigation purposes, more specifically, that the refrigerated cargo container does not allow the escape of fumigant beyond the reasonable level allowed by the agency monitoring the fumigation process.

Abstract: A fluid conveyor jet moves flexible containers or bags along a trough from one station to the next in the trough in a process which efficiently heats or cools the contents of the containers. Side fluid jets positioned along opposite sides of the trough direct heating or cooling fluid (water) on the flexible containers at the stations. They direct the fluid generally in spaced horizontal planes on the flexible containers therebetween causing (1) the central contents of the containers to move away from central areas of the container towards the sides to promote temperature transfer between the contents and cooling or heating fluid from the fluid jet conveyor and the fluid jets and (2) the containers to rotate generally about axes parallel to a longitudinal axis of the trough also helping in the cooling or heating process. The side fluid jets are operatively positioned below the waterline of the trough.

Abstract: A method of producing a packaging laminate for aseptic packages of the type which is produced in that a web of the packaging laminate is, for the purpose of sterilization, led through a bath of hydrogen peroxide prior to the reforming of the web into aseptic packages. The packaging material is produced in that a web of paper which has, on the one side of the web, an applied outer coating of plastic, is, for the purpose of promoting adhesion, subjected to a surface treatment changing polarity, where after the treated outer plastic coating is provided with a decor of water-based printing ink which is applied in the desired pattern on the outside of the outer plastic coating.

Abstract: Storage water used for storage of a silicon wafer in water is disclosed. The storage water contains Cu at a concentration of 0.01 ppb or less. A method of storing a silicon wafer in water is also disclosed. In the method, water containing Cu at a concentration of 0.01 ppb or less is used. In another method, a wafer is stored in water or a chemical solution, to which a chelating agent is added. The storage water and the storage methods can prevent degradation of oxide dielectric breakdown voltage which would otherwise occur due to Cu contamination from the storage water.

Abstract: A prefabricated medical implant made of polymeric material having increased wear resistance without substantially changing its ductility and other physical properties is described. The implant is formed by a method including the steps of heating a sealed, packaged, prefabricated implant, having a reduced oxygen atmosphere, to an elevated temperature below its annealing point at a predetermined rate and held at that temperature for a predetermined time. After this time the packaged implant, while being maintained in a predetermined temperature range, is irradiated with a predetermined amount of gamma radiation. After irradiation, the implant is permitted to cool at a predetermined rate. Thermal conductive and thermal insulation containers are also provided for holding the packaged implants during the process.

Abstract: A rotary sterilization system, a controller for use in the rotary sterilization system, and a method performed by the controller are disclosed. The system, controller, and method are used to administer a sterilization process performed on a line of containers and provide on-line handling of a deviation in a scheduled parameter during the process. The containers contain a shelf stable food product that is to be sterilized in the sterilization process. In addition to the controller, the rotary sterilization system includes a rotary sterilizer. The controller controls the rotary sterilizer in performing the sterilization process according to scheduled parameters. When a deviation in a specific one of the scheduled parameters occurs, the controller identifies those of the containers that will in response have a total lethality predicted to be delivered to them during the sterilization process that is less than a predefined target lethality.

Abstract: A sterilized chemical composition is stored in a sterile environment for a prolonged period of time, hermetically scaled in successive enclosures and a shipping enclosure. The third sealing layer is removed prior to entering a storage area. The second layer is removed prior to taking the container to the sterile environment. The storage area may also be sterile. The innermost container may be an aerosol container and the composition a disinfectant liquid such as alcohol. The entire shipping enclosure and contects is preferably sterilized with gamma radiation.

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

Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for deacidifying cellulose based materials, especially books, magazines, and other bound or folded cellulose materials having a spine. The method includes contacting the materials with a treating medium and producing relative movement at a predetermined velocity between the materials and the treating medium in a direction generally parallel to the spine of the materials and, preferably simultaneously, directing the treating medium by means of a spray toward the materials in a direction generally perpendicular to the spine of the material for a period of time effective for the treating medium to contact substantially all of the material. Following treatment, any excess treating medium is removed from the material and directing any such removed treating medium to a holding tank for reuse later. The movement in a parallel direction is achieved by reciprocating the materials through a tank filled with treating medium.

Abstract: A hydrostatic sterilization system, a controller for use in the hydrostatic sterilization system, and a method performed by the controller are disclosed. The system, controller, and method are used to administer a sterilization process performed on a line of carriers and to provide on-line handling of a deviation in a scheduled parameter during the process. The carriers carry containers of a shelf stable food product that is to be sterilized in the sterilization process. In addition to the controller, the hydrostatic sterilization system includes a hydrostatic sterilizer. The controller controls the hydrostatic sterilizer in performing the sterilization process according to scheduled parameters. When a deviation in a specific one of the scheduled parameters occurs, the controller identifies those of the carriers that will in response have a total lethality predicted to be delivered to them during the sterilization process that is less than a predefined target lethality.

Abstract: An improved method of maintaining the integrity of a wood structure over a period of years by forming a hole in the wood structure, inserting a container holding the treatment agent and a closure cap into the hole, with such closure cap undergoing an interaction with the vapors of the treatment agent so that the vapors dissolve the closure cap thereby providing an opening through which the treatment agent vapors are released into the internal structure of the wood object, and after the treatment agent vapors are no longer effective to treat the wood, retrieving the container and replacing it with a similar container, treatment agent and closure cap within the same hole to eliminate the necessity of drilling a new hole in the wood structure for such container.

Abstract: A method of and system for sterilizing the internal surfaces of one or more elongate relatively narrow passages of interest contained in a device of interest, said passages having end openings and being susceptible of sustaining flow there along by inducing a positive flow of sterilizing gas through each passage of interest in a selected direction. Gas flow through a device of interest is caused by a passive two-chamber device which generates a transient pressure gradient between the ends of the lumens of the device in response to externally imposed variations of pressure. Sterilant gas is provided from outside the two chamber systems.

Abstract: The present invention provides an effective oxygen generating materials, carbon dioxide absorbing materials, and transport system and transport method of live fishery products for use upon transporting live fishery products. An oxygen generating materials of the present invention is prepared by packaging solid peroxide and peroxide decomposition catalyst with a moisture-permeable material having a cup method moisture permeability (40° C., 90% RH) of more than 20 g/m2/24 hr and being impervious to water at normal pressure. Furthermore, a carbon dioxide absorbing materials are prepared by packaging alkaline earth metal hydroxide and/or oxide with a gas-permeable material having a Gurley method gas permeability (JIS P8117) of 0.1˜3000 sec./100 ml of gas and being impervious to water at normal pressure.

Abstract: Methods of aseptically transporting a bulk quantity of a sterile product such as an edible food product comprise sterilizing a transporting container by flooding the container with a chemical sterilant, pressurizing the sterilized container with a positive pressure inert gas atmosphere, and aseptically supplying a bulk quantity of the sterile product to the sterilized container. The pressurized container supplied with the sterile product is sealed to substantially maintain the positive pressure during transport of the container, and the container with the sterile product therein is then transported to a remote location. A transporting container for use in the present methods comprises an insulated transportable storage tank provided with a sealable atmospheric vent on an upper portion thereof, an inert gas valve provided with a microbial filter, and an aseptic inlet/outlet valve for supplying a sterile product therethrough.

Abstract: A door (18) for sealing the opening (14) to a walk-in steam sterilizer is formed from a stainless steel plate (50), sized to cover the opening, and a load-bearing framework (52), which is formed from a material having a different coefficient of thermal expansion to that of the plate, such as carbon steel. The framework includes a set of horizontally-spaced I beams (60) which are connected together at their ends by an outer frame (64). The framework is flexibly connected to an exterior surface of the plate by a number of flexible joints (56), such as carbon steel straps. The straps are welded at either end to the plate to form loops. The I beams are supported in the loops. As the temperature inside the sterilizer changes, causing the components of the door to expand or contract, the framework and the plate are able to expand or contract at different rates without resulting in bowing or other distortion of the door. Sets of rollers (22, 24) are rotatably mounted to upper and lower ends of the outer frame.

Abstract: Disclosed is CPG, a combination of a chlorhexidine salt (such as chlorhexidine digluconate, chlorhexidine diacetate, or chlorhexidine dichloride) and n-propyl gallate that can be used at ambient temperatures as a urine preservative.

Abstract: This invention relates to the synergistic wood preservative composition comprising of a quaternary ammonium compound and N-substituted isothiasolones having the properties of providing effective and broader control of microorganisms that produce stain, can cause the deterioration of wood, or may develop resistance to some of the active components.

Abstract: A method for long-term maintenance of intact nucleic acid is provided. The method comprises introducing a nucleic acid containing receptacle into a cavity of a storage device. The nucleic acid containing receptacle comprises an amount of isolated vertebrate nucleic acid in a cavity of the receptacle, wherein either the receptacle or storage device is formed of a natural material. The nucleic acid is retained in the cavity by a fastener. A sealant is introduced into the aperture of the cavity of the device to form a nucleic acid storage device.

Abstract: The present invention provides a means and a device to control relative humidity and airborne contaminants within a defined environment. The devices and methods of the present invention enable a user to regulate the relative humidity of a defined environment and insure that extreme conditions, e.g. less than 15% or greater than 90% relative humidity, do not exist. The air quality control system can also be used to control the relative humidity in and about a narrow range. Control over relative humidity and airborne contaminants is achieved by combining an appropriate salt and water solution, such as a saturated salt solution with a solid phase of that salt, with an isolation membrane and a getter system. The present invention is particularly useful for housing sensors, such as SIR sensors, which are sensitive to relative humidity extremes.

Abstract: A method of sequestering carbon dioxide (CO2) in an ocean comprises testing an area of the surface of a deep open ocean in order to determine both the nutrients that are missing and the diffusion coefficient, applying to the area in a spiral pattern a first fertilizer that comprises a missing nutrient, and measuring the amount of carbon dioxide that has been sequestered. The fertilizer preferably comprises an iron chelate that prevents the iron from precipitating to any significant extent. The preferred chelates include lignin, and particularly lignin acid sulfonate. The method may further comprise applying additional fertilizers, and reporting the amount of carbon dioxide sequestered. The method preferably includes applying a fertilizer in pulses. Each fertilizer releases each nutrient over time in the photic zone and in a form that does not precipitate.

Abstract: Use of a solution comprising glucose for peritoneal dialysis, in which the glucose portion is sterilised separately from the remaining components at a high glucose concentration above about 20% and mixed after sterilisation, substantially according to WO 93/09820. The solution has a reduced formation of advanced glycosylation end products and the use is indicated for diabetic uremic patients.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for removing pollutants from gas streams using a reactor assembly. The reactor assembly includes an inlet, an outlet, at least two electrodes, a catalyst bed, and plasma generated from the electrodes. Electrical energy is applied, and catalytic surfaces enhanced by the plasma results in the reduction of NOx to N2 and oxidation of particulates and hydrocarbons to CO2. Furthermore, the present invention removes NOx, particulate, and hydrocarbons from O2 rich pollutant streams without the need for supplemental additives.

Abstract: An apparatus for the catalytic decomposition of H2O2 in an aqueous solution which is a contact lens care agent, wherein the catalyst is formed by a shaped body which is roughened by sand blasting and which is coated by a platinum layer 1 which is produced by sputtering.

Abstract: Lignocellulosic materials such as paper are deacidified by exposure to acoustically agitated submicron alkaline particles which adhere to the materials being treated. The alkaline particles neutralize the acidity of the paper and counteract the effects of acid degradation. The alkaline deacidification process does not employ volatile compounds or liquids and does not damage the paper.

Abstract: A composition for absorbing oxygen and releasing carbon dioxide in a high moisture environment including by weight an iron-based component for absorbing oxygen in an amount of between about 15% and 60%, a carbon dioxide releasing component for releasing carbon dioxide in an amount of between about 8% and 50%, an acidifying component for providing acid for activating the carbon dioxide releasing component, and a dry water-attracting component for preventing premature activation of the iron-based component and carbon dioxide releasing component and for attracting water from a high moisture environment to thereby supply water for activating the acidifying component and the iron-based component.

Abstract: A method of sequestering carbon dioxide (CO2) in an ocean comprises testing an area of the surface of a deep open ocean in order to determine both the nutrients that are missing and the diffusion coefficient, applying to the area in a spiral pattern a first fertilizer that comprises a missing nutrient, and measuring the amount of carbon dioxide that has been sequestered. The application of the first fertilizer in a spiral pattern results in a patch of fertilizer where the concentration of the fertilizer does not vary by more than about 50% within two days of the local application. The concentration of the fertilizer at the center of the patch does not decrease through diffusion by more than about 5% during a time period of about 20 days after the application of the patch of fertilizer. The method may further comprise applying additional fertilizers, and reporting the amount of carbon dioxide sequestered. The method preferably includes applying a fertilizer in pulses.

Abstract: Wear resistance and oxidation resistance of polymer material or a polymer component for bioimplantation are improved by packaging a polymer object in a sealed gas impermeable package substantially free of oxygen, irradiating the package with penetrating radiation to an extent sufficient to effect a desired substantial level of cross-linking within the polymer, and warming the packaged object while maintaining an elevated hydrostatic pressure to cause gases released during irradiation to recombine, stabilizing the material against subsequent oxidative change. The pressure stabilization terminates active sites, substantially eliminating free radicals. When applied to finished parts, the process simultaneously hardens and sterilizes the parts without degrading mechanical properties or dimensions. When applied to bulk material or unfinished parts, the part may be subsequent machined or otherwise finished, and sterilized by any conventional means.

Abstract: A method for improving products such as toothpaste, shampoo, soap, detergent and lotions or creams by utilizing a water base for the product that is about 99% water, 0.68% cellulose and 0.32% emulsified food grade wax. Products produced with this water base will not decompose even though chemical preservatives is not included as an ingredient. The water base is formed by filtering hydrous cellulose pulp that is resistant to decomposition through a very fine filter. The hydrous cellulose pulp can be produced either by recycling waxed paper or thorough a process that begins with virgin vegetable constituents and wax. The filtrate, or water base can also be used in the horticultural field to prevent mold on plants and in physiology area to prevent the degradation of cells.

Abstract: A method of and system for sterilizing the internal surfaces of one or more elongate relatively narrow passages of interest contained in a device of interest, said passages having end openings and being susceptible of sustaining flow therealong by inducing a positive flow of sterilizing gas through each passage of interest in a selected direction. Gas flow through a device of interest is caused by a passive two-chamber device which generates a transient pressure gradient between the ends of the lumens of the device in response to externally imposed variations of pressure. Sterilant gas is provided from outside the two chamber systems.

Abstract: This invention provides for a method of sterilizing a chemical composition contained within a closed container (20). The chemical composition is initially mechanically filtered (12) and then the containers (20) are closed and hermetically sealed within a first sealing layer (24). The first sealing layer (24) and the chemical container (20) form a single layer sealed enclosure (26) which is then encased within a second sealing layer (30) and hermetically sealed to form a second layer sealed container enclosure (32). The second layer sealed container enclosure (32) is then inserted into a carton (36) having a third sealing layer (38) lining. The carton is closed and then irradiated with gamma radiation at a predetermined dosage level to sterilize the contents of the container (20). The closed cartons (36) are then transported to operational sites where the plurality of sealing layers (24, 30 and 38) provide for optimized contamination reduction.

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

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

Abstract: A method for preventing obstruction in aluminum brass pipes in a water flow path, including the steps of continuously supplying iron ions or an iron ion supply compound to water in the water flow path in such a manner that a concentration of iron ions in the water is 0.005 to 0.05 mg/liter, and supplying hydrogen peroxide or a hydrogen peroxide supply compound for a period of time sufficient for preventing adhesion of organisms to the aluminum brass pipes but not impeditive to formation of corrosion-resistant coating inside the pipes, in such a manner that a concentration of hydrogen peroxide in the water is 0.1 to 1.5 mg/liter, whereby corrosion of aluminum brass pipes and adhesion of organisms to the pipes are prevented.

Abstract: Evaporation devices and associated methods for introducing humidity into an atmosphere. The evaporation device includes a substantially rigid shell encasing an absorbent material and having a plurality of holes extending therethrough to permit air flow between the exterior and interior of the shell. The absorbent material can be a natural or synthetic sponge capable of absorbing and retaining water. After applying water to the evaporation device, it is placed in an environment to which humidity is to be introduced. Evaporation of water can be enhanced by placing a mixture of aspirin and sodium bicarbonate on the absorbent material. Examples of methods for using the evaporation device include placing the evaporation device in produce bins, produce refrigerators, cheese and meat refrigerators, and containers of dry foods, such as cookies and brown sugar.

Abstract: The present invention provides a compact-sized reservoir with small power consumption. It suppresses possible oxidation of articles and growths of putrefactious aerobic organisms such as bacteria, fungi and the like, by storing the articles under an atmosphere of reduced oxygen concentration created by an oxygen pump device which makes use of an oxygen ion-conductive film. In a case of storing foods, the disclosed reservoir makes their long-term storing possible. The reservoir in accordance with the present invention uses an oxygen pump device provided with an oxygen ion-conductive electrolyte film and a pair of electrodes formed on the both surfaces thereof.

Abstract: A process is disclosed for preserving paper involving the following steps:(a) a plurality of paper layers in contact with one another at least in regions is simultaneously brought into contact with a preservative fluid containing polycondensates based on one or more hydrolytic polycondensation-capable compounds of elements M of main groups III-V and sub-groups II-IV of the Periodic Table; in said polycondensates, at least one organic group (G) with at least two carbon atoms and for each carbon atom at least one atom selected from hydrogen or fluorine and without polar substituents is bound, either directly via one of the carbon atoms or via a connecting group A, to at least 0.1% of the central atoms M; and(b) the paper thus treated with the preservative fluid is dried and/or hardened.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for using ultrasonic energy in conjunction with an ultraviolet water sterilization system. An ultrasonic transducer assembly is placed in or around one end of the sterilization chamber for producing the ultrasonic energy. Ultrasonic vibrations are then applied automatically on a regular and intermittent basis to clean the components within the sterilization chamber and disrupt the chemical and physical action which causes scaling due to dissolved minerals and organic materials in the water. The ultrasonic vibrations cause a preventative cleaning action by the streaming and stirring of the water. Actual cleaning action is also created by cavitation and sweeping actions. The sweeping action is accomplished by frequency modulation which, by creating varying hot and cold spots within the sterilization chamber, allows for a uniform cleaning of a quartz sleeve encasing a UV lamp within the sterilization chamber. Ultrasonic vibrations also create a germicidal action.

Abstract: An electronic device (1), for example a test pack for use in determining the efficacy of a sterilization cycle in a sterilizer, is provided with a protective framework (10) comprising two impact-absorbing ring-like members (11, 12) located on opposed sides of the device and three impact-absorbing arms (13) spaced apart from the device and extending at equi-spaced locations between the ring-like members.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of disinfecting a foodstuff using a gaseous mixture containing ozone in an amount and for a time sufficient to effect disinfection.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for pasteurizing comminuted wood. A housing is substantially sealed over the hatch of a ship's cargo hold before it is opened. The hold contains comminuted wood for transport, which are typically contaminated with pathogens that it is desired to destroy. Hot water is provided to combine with the comminuted wood to form a slurry. The slurry is pumped to a pasteurization vessel where it is held for a predetermined pasteurization temperature and time. Subsequent to the predetermined pasteurization time, the slurry exits the pasteurization vessel and the water is reclaimed from the wood chips. The reclaimed water is preferentially reused to slurry more chips. The method and apparatus preferably include employing an air removal and cleaning system which maintains the environment within the cargo hold at conditions tolerable for a worker to work therein, the air removal and cleaning system purifying the air obtained therefrom before exhausting it into the atmosphere.

Abstract: Trichlorosilane for producing polycrystal silicon and tetrachlorosilane for producing trichlorosilane are storaged under hydrogen gas as a sealing gas. High-purity polycrystal silicon is provided.

Abstract: Treatment methods for glass medical adhesive applicators in which a glass applicator is exposed to ammonium sulfate, an acidic gas, a plasma or a silanizing agent in order to remove or coat alkalide materials trapped in the glass.

Abstract: A method of sequestering carbon dioxide (CO.sub.2) in an ocean comprises testing an area of the surface of a deep open ocean in order to determine the nutrients that are missing, applying to the area a first fertilizer that comprises an iron chelate, and measuring the amount of carbon dioxide that has been sequestered. The method may further comprise applying additional fertilizers, and reporting the amount of carbon dioxide sequestered. The method preferably includes applying a fertilizer in pulses. Each fertilizer releases each nutrient over time in the photic zone and in a form that does not precipitate.

Abstract: There is disclosed herein an oxygen absorbent composition comprising an organic oxygen absorbent (A) which neither absorbs nor releases moisture and in which an oxidizable main component is supported on a porous silicate having an average pore diameter of 200 to 5,000 .ANG., and a formaldehyde absorbent (B) which neither absorbs nor releases moisture and is at least one of an amine, a thiol and a sulfonic acid that is supported on a porous carrier. According to this invention cultural assets made of organic materials which are required to be kept in a medial humidity atmosphere can be preserved in an atmosphere of a medial humidity, a low oxygen concentration and a low formaldehyde concentration by the use of the disclosed oxygen absorbent composition.

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

Abstract: Methods of aseptically transporting a bulk quantity of a sterile product such as an edible food product comprise sterilizing a transporting container by flooding the container with a chemical sterilant, pressurizing the sterilized container with a positive pressure inert gas atmosphere, and aseptically supplying a bulk quantity of the sterile product to the sterilized container. The pressurized container supplied with the sterile product is sealed to substantially maintain the positive pressure during transport of the container, and the container with the sterile product therein is then transported to a remote location. A transporting container for use in the present methods comprises an insulated transportable storage tank provided with a sealable atmospheric vent on an upper portion thereof, an inert gas valve provided with a microbial filter, and an aseptic inlet/outlet valve for supplying a sterile product therethrough.