Abstract: Disclosed herein are deodorizer systems and methods for making and using the same. In one embodiment, a deodorizer system comprises: a mesh, nanoparticle titania coating on the mesh, and a frame disposed around a periphery of the mesh such that the mesh is configured to be in optical communication with sunlight and for receiving contaminated gas to be deodorized. The mesh has an open area of greater than or equal to about 35%, and has greater than or equal to 6,400 openings/in2. In another embodiment, a deodorizer system comprises: a mesh disposed in a housing and for receiving contaminated gas to be deodorized, nanoparticle titania coating on the mesh, and a UV light source disposed to be in optical communication with the mesh. The mesh has an open area of greater than or equal to about 35%, and has greater than or equal to 6,400 openings/in2.

Abstract: The present invention relates to suspensions for odor reduction comprising a porous metal-organic framework material in a liquid, and also atomizer and methods for odor reduction using the suspensions. The invention likewise relates to the use of the suspensions for odor reduction.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an air filter assembly and a method of using the same on a register vent comprising: a mechanism to attach the filter to an inside perimeter of the register; a sleeve to allow for the insertion of register louvers; and a filter where said filter includes an anti-bacteria agent. The mechanism to attach may include an adhesive strip. The anti-bacteria agent disinfects and deodorizes airflow through the register. The anti-bacteria agent effectively removes bacteria and fungi from the airflow through the register.

Abstract: An inactivating device for inactivating virus, bacteria, etc. including a humidifying unit for humidifying flowing air, a humidifying water supply unit for supplying the humidifying unit with humidifying water containing active oxygen species achieved by electrolyzing tap water, and a concentration adjusting unit for adjusting the concentration of the active oxygen species in the humidifying water to a predetermined concentration.

Abstract: A multi-functional cabin air filter includes a dust collecting filter layer for collecting fine dust; an oxidation catalyst filter layer for oxidizing nitrogen monoxide into nitrogen dioxide; and an adsorption filter layer for adsorbing nitrogen dioxide and volatile organic compounds, wherein antimicrobial nanoparticles are applied to at least one of the dust collecting filter layer, the oxidation catalyst filter layer and the adsorption filter layer. This cabin air filter has dust collecting, denitrifying, deodorizing and antimicrobial functions, and it may be utilized in various ways for air purification in a limited space such as a vehicle.

Abstract: Biogenic sulfide production is synergistically inhibited by treating sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) with a biocide and a metabolic inhibitor. The biocide directly kills a first portion of the SRB. The metabolic inhibitor inhibits sulfate-reducing growth of a second portion of the SRB without directly killing the second portion of the SRB. The treatment of SRB with both a biocide and a metabolic inhibitor provides effective biogenic sulfide inhibition at significantly lower concentrations than would be required if the biocide or metabolic inhibitor was used alone.

Abstract: A sterile device immersed in a sterile buffer and a method for providing same. The sterile device may be a medical device such as a biosensor having a biomolecule as a sensing element such as, for example, a glucose oxidase enzyme. The buffer may be a bicarbonate solution. Both the device and the buffer may be packaged and stored over long term while maintaining sterilization. The sterilization method may comprise a combination of gaseous, liquid and light sterilization.

Abstract: Disclosed are a method and apparatus with several embodiments that use low output UV energy to create hydroxyl radicals on photocatalytic semiconductor coated surfaces in order to produce hydroxyl radicals to structurally eradicate contaminants impacting those surfaces. Low wattage UVA black-light white and black-light blue plasma lamps are used to activate photocatalytic semiconductor coatings on solid and mesh surfaces constructed of fluropolymers (Teflon®), of aluminum, of stainless steel, and coatings on the outer lamp wall of the UVA lamp itself. The embodiments show that sufficient UVA energy is being transmitted through solid lamp wall, through the photocatalytic semiconductor coating on the outer lamp wall (from beneath), and through multiple layers of coated fluropolymer, aluminum, and stainless steel mesh to create hydroxyl radicals on the surfaces of downstream layers.

Abstract: Superior hydroxyls are provided which have effects on organic and inorganic compounds and/or pollutants over substantial periods of time and/or at substantial distances from where the superior hydroxyls are generated. Also provided is a hydroxyl generator, in which UV-lamps are positioned such that the coronas which they produce when emitting UV-radiation fill substantially all of the interior space of the hydroxyl generator. The coronas overlap each other by a maximum amount of between 5% and 25% of the radius of each corona.

Abstract: The invention provides a fragrance delivery system comprising: a release mechanism for releasing at least one fragrance, and a control unit for controlling said release mechanism, said control unit comprising a selection unit for selecting said fragrance from at least two fragrances in response to turning on said fragrance delivery system. The invention further provides a kit of parts comprising said device and a at least two fragrance containers filled with a fragrance substance. In addition, the invention relates to the use of a release mechanism for releasing at least one fragrance and a control unit for controlling a release mechanism, said control unit comprising a selection unit for selecting said fragrance from at least two fragrances in response to turning on said fragrance delivery system.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses are described for contacting an oxidizing solution such as an aqueous hydrogen peroxide composition of hydrogen peroxide and at least one additive that catalyzes the decomposition of the hydrogen peroxide into hydroxyl radicals with an atmospheric effluent containing odorous and/or noxious components. These components are absorbed by the aqueous hydrogen peroxide composition to produce an atmospheric effluent having reduced amounts of the odorous and/or noxious components. Various methods are described for adding the hydrogen peroxide and the decomposition additive.

Abstract: The instant invention relates to a process for removing ethene from biological sources using iodine doped titaniumdioxide. Further aspects of the invention are polymer compositions containing this iodine doped titanium dioxide, its use as efficient ethene removing additive and the iodine doped titaniumdioxide itself.

Abstract: The multifunctional paint is based on a highly porous inorganic substance created by a reaction of at least two components. TiO2 nanoparticles are attached to the surface of this substance. The first component is a water insoluble calcium compound and the second component is a water soluble sulfate. The method of applying the multifunctional paint on the surface is that the first component containing the water suspension of the insoluble calcium compound is applied on the treated area first and subsequently a mixture of TiO2 nanoparticles suspended in the water solution of the second component is applied over the first layer. Another way is to apply a water suspension of the first component containing also TiO2 nanoparticles on the treated surface and then deposit the water solution of the second component on the layer. A mixture of all components can be also applied on the treated area at once.

Abstract: A modular ductwork assembly decontaminates an air stream circulating within a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system. The assembly includes one or more of (a) an ionizing module for removing particulates from the air stream, (b) a sterilization module for neutralizing airborne pathogens present in the air stream, (c) an ozone treatment module for neutralizing pathogens or odoriferous constituents or volatile organic compounds (VOCs) present in the air stream, optionally (d) baffles for slowing and disrupting the flow rate and promoting turbulence in the air stream traveling through the modules and optionally (e) a fan module for directing a treated air stream, (f) an ozone sensor, (g) a monitoring or ozone control means, (h) a means of delivering and repurposing generated ozone. Each of the modules is arranged substantially adjacent to at least one of the other modules.

Abstract: A chemical vapor sterilization process is enhanced by concentrating a germicide via condensation and re-vaporization thereof, exploiting the difference between the vapor pressures of the germicide and its solvent to extract some of the solvent during the condensation process.

Abstract: A chemical delivery system includes: a chemical storage device configured for emitting a volatilized chemical therefrom; a heating element which provides an exothermic chemical reaction; an at least substantially rigid housing element containing the heating element; a tray including a well, the well having an absence of a through-hole and defining a space which is slightly larger than the chemical storage device, the tray being attached to the housing element, the chemical storage device being mounted to the well, the heating element being in thermal communication with the chemical storage device via the well; a retainer attached to the well and including at least one hole configured for passing therethrough the volatilized chemical to an ambient environment, the retainer being configured for retaining the chemical storage device in the space; and a removable covering directly attached to the tray and covering the retainer and the well to thereby hermetically seal the chemical storage device within the space.

Abstract: An apparatus for providing pollution free air to an individual includes an enclosed or semi-enclosed space or compartment for surround or partially surrounding an individual's head or upper body to separate the individual from polluted air. A filter assembly and fan forcing polluted air through the filter assembly and into the enclosure. The filter assembly includes a first filter for removing relatively large particles such as sand or dust from the polluted air while a second HAPA filter removes airborne allergens before forcing non-polluted air into the enclosed or semi-enclosed space.

Abstract: A multiple-purpose deodorant dispenser unit is provided, comprising: (a) first apparatus adapted for alternatively receiving (i) an aerosol spray deodorant container, (ii) an open deodorant container having gel, liquid or solid deodorant therein, or (iii) a wick cylinder having deodorant therein; (b) second apparatus adjacent to the first apparatus adapted for alternatively containing (i) a spray actuating head device for activating a nozzle in the aerosol spray deodorant container to emit a spray of vaporized deodorant, or (ii) a fan head device for directing a movement of air in the vicinity of either the open container or the wick cylinder; and (c) a third apparatus having electrical means for alternatively operating the spray actuating head device or the fan head device.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for controlling fecal odors in an enclosed space, such as a pit latrine, include providing an oxidizer, such as a catalytic heater and an optional mechanical ventilation unit, such as an inline fan, both flow connected to a vault (pit) of the latrine. The heater is also connected to a source of fuel, for example, propane. Fresh air is drawn through vents in the latrine housing and thereafter through toilets in the latrine and through the vault, providing oxygen for the reaction. The fan and/or oxidation process draws both fresh air and accompanying odorous compounds directly from the latrine and into the oxidizer wherein the odorous components are substantially destroyed.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a kit for assembling a passive air freshener comprising fragranced sail crystals. In the preferred form, the kit minimally comprises: 1) a package containing a plurality of fragranced salt crystals; 2) a container with an opening for placing said crystals therein, said container defining an enclosed space having a height/width ratio of from about 0.5 to about 3; and, 3) a carton for containing both the package of crystals and the container, where the carton preferably has a viewing window that displays at least the decorative aspects of the container design to potential purchasers. The kit may also include instructional literature and optional lighting source.

Abstract: The invention provides a fragrance delivery system comprising: a control unit for controlling a release mechanism to release at least one selected fragrance, said control unit comprising a selection unit for selecting said selected fragrance from at least two fragrances and controlling said release mechanism to release said selected fragrance, and a switching element for switching said release mechanism between an first state and an second state or vice versa, in which first state said release mechanism releases said selected fragrance at a higher rate than in said second state. The invention further provides a kit of parts comprising said device and a at least two fragrance reservoirs filled with a fragrance chemical.

Abstract: The polymeric nanoparticles including olfactive components have a glass temperature of >50° C. They are obtainable by continuously adding a monomer component and an olfactive component to an aqueous solution. The aqueous solution comprises a first initiator and an emulsifier. The added components are distributed in the aqueous solution to obtain reaction mixture while the polymerization of the monomer component is started at the first temperature. The liquid monomer component and the olfactive component are added continuously while a second initiator is added dropwise to the reaction mixture and the first temperature is maintained. After terminating the addition of liquid monomer component and the olfactive component the temperature of the reaction mixture is increased to a second temperature and a third initiator is added dropwise.

Abstract: A liquid delivery device for use in conjunction with an air filter in a forced air circulation system. The device includes a liquid reservoir, a dispersion device connected to the reservoir, a compressor, and a mounting device configured to slidably retain an air filter. The device may be used in conjunction with an HVAC system.

Abstract: Provided is a method for reducing the amounts of fungal spores and small airborne particles in an enclosure, where the enclosure has or is in communication with an air handling system. The method comprises the steps of applying vacuum suction to the air handling system and contacting the air handling system with a first antimicrobial agent; applying a cleansing agent to the carpets and upholstery in the enclosure; fogging the enclosure with a second antimicrobial agent; releasing ozone within the enclosure for a period of time and terminating the release of ozone to allow the ozone concentration to return to normal levels; placing a reservoir containing tea tree oil into the air handling system, and initiating operation of an air purifier air in the enclosure, wherein for a period of at least 90 days, the airborne particles in the enclosure are fewer than 1.0 million airborne particles per cubic meter of air; the airborne fungal spores in the enclosure an amount at least 1.

Abstract: A liquid-absorbing core which is for use in suction type drug volatilizers which comprises hydrophilic fibers and/or water-absorbing fibers. The hydrophilic fibers have an affinity for water, and are rayon, cotton, etc. Especially preferred is rayon because it has a high affinity for water. Examples of the water-absorbing fibers include water-absorbing synthetic fibers made of a polymer such as polyvinyl alcohol or polysodium acrylate and other synthetic fibers treated by, e.g., adding and adhering polyvinyl alcohol or polysodium acrylate thereto or coating them with the polymer. In the liquid-absorbing core, the hydrophilic fibers and/or water-absorbing fibers may be disposed so as to have a porosity of 10 to 80%.

Abstract: A method is taught for capturing organoleptic odor. Where a functional additive has odors from a plurality of organolepic sources, and is blended with an odor control agent and a resin to produce a blend, where the blend exhibits at least a 5% reduction in odor based on a standardized odor test SAE-J1351.

Abstract: An air decontamination device comprising an air stream generator (20), a non-thermal plasma filter (22), an ultraviolet (UV) radiation emitting device (24), an ozone catalysing device (26), and a hydrocarbon emitter (28). The air stream generator (20) generates and directs an air stream through or across the non-thermal plasma filter (22), the UV radiation emitting device (24), the ozone catalysing device (26), and the hydrocarbon emitter (28). The plasma filter (22) produces free radicals by which contaminants in the air stream are nuetralised. The UV radiation emitting device (24) breaks down ozone in the air stream, catalysed by the ozone catalysing device (26). The hydrocarbon emitter (28) discharges an aromatic hydrocarbon into the air stream to preferentially react with residual ozone so that the air stream becomes suitable for human exposure. A method is also provided.

Abstract: Sterilisation of airflow in a duct may be achieved by irradiating the air with light in the ultraviolet spectrum. Electrodeless bulbs may be enclosed in part of a duct and fed with RF energy in order to energize the bulb. The RF energy may be contained using grids dimensioned to be opaque to the selected RF wavelength.

Abstract: A bio air sterilization system and method of use thereof is provided that can remove and render benign harmful contaminants and particulates, such as bacteria, viruses, and molds, from air within an enclosed area, as well as, in principle, from the exposed surfaces located within the enclosed area. In one aspect, the sterilization system includes a self contained, mobile sterilization unit that includes at least an ultraviolet array, an air flow control mechanism for diverting the air flow within the system through either a filter or through an ozone removal zone, an ozone generator, and a blower apparatus to pull the air through the system and out through ports, such as a nozzle system, to the surrounding environment.

Abstract: The invention relates to a protective device such as a face mask. The device protects the user from infection and may simultaneously immunise the user against future infection. The invention particularly relates to a protective device comprising a disinfection chamber wherein the chamber is arranged to disinfect and/or sterilize fluid in the chamber prior to discharge of the fluid from the chamber such that the fluid discharged from the chamber comprises inactive microorganisms, for example a device comprising a disinfection chamber in fluid communication with a face mask and wherein the chamber is arranged to disinfect and/or sterilize fluid in the chamber prior to discharge of the fluid from the chamber to the mask such that the fluid discharged from the chamber to the mask comprises inactive microorganisms. The invention also relates to a method of use of the device.

Abstract: A method for decontaminating bioaerosol with high concentrations of bacterial, viral, spore and other airborne microorganisms or biologic contaminants, in flight at high flow rates. A plasma screen created across the flow of air contaminated with airborne biologic agents renders contaminants non-culturable within millisecond. The technology may cooperate with heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. It may be particularly beneficial in preventing bioterrorism and the spread of toxic or infectious agents, containing airborne pandemic threats such as avian flu, sterilizing spaces such as hospitals, pharmaceutical plants and manufacturing facilities, treating exhaust ventilation streams, minimizing biological environmental pollutants in industrial settings, improving general air quality, and preventing sick building syndrome.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for treating a gaseous effluent loaded with odorant compounds, comprising a reactor (1) through which said effluent can pass in transit in the presence of a washing solution, characterized in that said reactor (1) integrates a three-dimensional mesh (14) capable of promoting interfacial exchanges between said effluent and said washing solution.

Abstract: An apparatus (101) for de-odorising a gas mixture, such as foul air, comprising means to provide interacting a supply of foul air (107) with a supply of oxidising liquid (106), such as ozonated water, by increasing the pressure on the foul air and increasing the surface area of the oxidising liquid.

Abstract: An assembly and method for treating or otherwise improving an atmosphere contained within an enclosed space. The enclosed space can be a container such as a bag or other housing for equipment, food and/or suitable material. Ozone is generated within an atmosphere that is exposed to the material. The generated ozone is mixed with the atmosphere. At least a portion of the generated ozone is then removed from the mixed atmosphere. The assembly and method can be used to treat contaminated sports equipment and the like, as well as to treat food storage atmospheres, such as those exposed to fresh fruits and vegetables.

Abstract: A breathing air purification device and method having a carbon-monoxide free sweep stream. Water vapor is removed from a compressed air stream using a membrane dryer, comprising, a membrane having a permeate portion and a non-permeate portion, a membrane housing which encases the membrane, a membrane feed inlet conduit connected to the membrane and a non-permeate gas outlet conduit fluidly connected to the non-permeate portion of the membrane. The sweep stream used to cleanse the outer permeate portion of the membrane dryer is taken from a catalyst filter. The catalyst filter includes a cartridge containing a bed of catalyst, two end pieces maintaining the cartridge within a catalyst bed housing and having outlet holes, a catalyst inlet conduit connected to the bed of catalyst and a product gas outlet conduit connected to the outlet holes. A sweep inlet tube provides a gas connection from the catalyst filter component to the permeate portion of the membrane.

Abstract: An ultrasonic humidifier includes a base that is formed with a recess, as well as a water tank and a mist spraying tube that are disposed on the base and that are in fluid communication with the recess. An ultrasonic oscillator is disposed in a bottom end of the recess for atomizing water in the recess. An ultraviolet light unit is disposed in said mist spraying tube.

Abstract: A dry disinfection device comprising at least a process chamber (1), through which air is introduced into the environment. The process chamber (1) comprises both an ultraviolet radiation source (2) for producing ozone and an ionizer means (3) for ionizing air.

Abstract: A system and method for controlling dust and/or odors comprises a blower unit and baffle member deployed downstream of the blower unit. The blower unit comprises a fan propelled mister with a discharge tube and a fan disposed in the discharge tube adapted for drawing air into the discharge tube and creating a high velocity air flow exiting therefrom. The discharge tube has a plurality of nozzles and a fluid source is placed in communication with the nozzles such that the nozzles discharge fluid particles that are entrained in a high velocity air flow exiting from the discharge tube distal end. A baffle member is deployed downstream of the blower unit at an elevation above the blower unit so as to alter a flow path of ambient air flowing through a discharge path of the blower unit.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device (1), particularly a child-safe device, for projecting and or directing a scent that includes a housing (10) having a drive mechanism (30) contained therein, a housing cap (20) to enclose the housing (10), an air projector removably connected to a drive shaft of the drive mechanism (30), and a scent-releasing substance in the vicinity of the air projector; as well as methods of using, refilling and marketing the device.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system for dispensing a volatizable material when needed. In an exemplary embodiment, the system includes a sensor to detect malodors, where the sensing of a malodor is used to activate fragrance emission when needed, and not, when not needed. In an exemplary embodiment, the sensor is able to distinguish between different malodors in different locations, such that a single system may be used in different locations. In an exemplary embodiment, the system includes an indicator configured to indicate to the sensor the type of malodor to detect to activate fragrance emission. In an exemplary embodiment, the indicator is included with the container of volatizable liquid, either mechanically or electrically.

Abstract: The invention relates to biological home defense systems for use by populations at risk of widespread biological attack via biological weapons of mass destruction, especially biological weapons involving aerosol attacks. The present invention is also related to methods for using such biological home defense systems wherein meteorological data is used to issue advisories with regard to the use of such biological home defense systems to a population at risk of exposure to biological weapons of mass destruction.

Abstract: A device for locally producing microwave plasma. The device comprises at least one microwave feed that is surrounded by at least one dielectric tube. At least one of the dielectric tubes, such as an outer dielectric tube, is partially surrounded by a metal jacket. A locally delimited plasma is produced by the device by shielding microwaves.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system for detecting a malodor and dispensing an air treatment when needed. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the system includes a selection mechanism which allows the user to choose how the system dispenses the air treatment, a sensor, a timing control circuit coupled with the sensor, and a delivery system coupled with the timing control circuit. Upon detection of a malodor by the sensor, the sensor communicates with the timing control circuit which, in turn, communicates with the delivery system to dispense the air treatment. In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, an air-freshening system is shown that combines a continuous dispensing system with a sensing dispensing system.

Abstract: The invention concerns a novel method for purifying air and gasses, consisting of an optimized air ventilation slab, with its air ventilation pipes, air ventilation pipettes and air diffusion plugs; optionally a complementary cellular material enabling the material to be supported providing biofiltration, purification or treatment of air, and optionally a device for diffusing liquids and/or bacteria and/or enzymes, allowing the biofilter to act as the equivalent of a gas scrubbing tower.

Abstract: A method of reducing the formation of malodors in a confined space. More specifically, it is provided a method of reducing the formation of malodors in a confined space, comprising the step of placing a moisture-permeable, water-insoluble sachet comprising a solid composition comprising a hypohalite bleach and/or a peroxygen bleach in close proximity of a source of humidity present within said confined space.

Abstract: An allergen trap is provided. The allergen trap includes a woven or nonwoven substrate having at least one strata. The trap is impregnated with or otherwise treated with a tacky adhesive by which allergens may be trapped. An example of an allergen is a dust mite. The tacky adhesive, in turn, may be treated with a miticide or activated carbon.

Abstract: An insert for sports gear and footwear has a compliant casing formed of fabric sheeting that incorporates regions of fused or otherwise integral regions of activated carbon. A desiccant such as silica gel in the form of spheroidal beads or other granules is loosely enclosed inside of the casing. The activated carbon has an affinity for odor-causing constituents such as organic compounds, and extracts airborne odor-causing constituents as air enters the casing. Inside the casing, the desiccant extracts airborne water vapor. The two-stage removal of odor-causing constituents and water vapor rapidly and effectively extracts moisture and odors. The silica gel and activated carbon are porous and have high surface areas available for adsorption, whereby the insert is adapted to maintain moisture and odors at low levels during long-term storage.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for sterilizing a contaminated object. The process comprises the insertion of the object in a sterilization chamber having at least one discharge tube in communication therewith. Then, the tube is fed with a liquid or gas stream, and the stream is subjected to an electric field so as to generate a plasma, thereby exposing the contaminated object to the action of sterilizing species that are present in a post-discharge zone or in a zone of excitation of the plasma. A device for carrying such a process is also provided.

Abstract: An onsite chemistry air filtration system to remove gaseous contaminants from air is disclosed. The onsite chemistry air filtration system of the present invention comprises: a conventional particulate filtration section, a photochemical filtration section, a static gas phase filtration section and a catalytic filtration section. The conventional particulate filtration section captures solids and condensables. In the photochemical filtration section, UV lamps generate bio-destruction and surface photochemical activity on a semiconductor catalyst material, provide a radiation source to irradiate airborne contaminant molecules and to energize their states to promote reactions and generate airborne ozone and radicals. In the static gas phase filtration section, gas phase filtration media is used to capture contaminants, concentrate them in a relatively confined space and allow airborne generated chemistries to concentrate and react in-situ, thereby creating a regeneration effect on the media.

Abstract: In a method for air treatment in a display cabinet for the storage and/or display of objects, whose walls, floor and roof structure more or less enclose the inside space of the display cabinet and in which a forced inflow of air from an air delivery system connected to the inside space (1) of the cabinet maintains a slight excess pressure compared with the air outside it, the said airflow passes through suitable dust or gas filtration means before entering the cabinet and its air humidity is adjusted and/or controlled by means of a cooling device. After filtration, the airflow passes through a catalyser (8) present in a liquid (7), the air picks up moisture from the liquid and is rendered completely free from germs. In this manner and in a simple way, a completely germ-free atmosphere is produced inside the display cabinet. A display cabinet for implementing the method has a corresponding structure.