Decreasing Pollution Or Environmental Impact Patents (Class 422/900)
  • Patent number: 9034274
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a vehicular air cleaner. A DOR (Direct Ozone Reduction) system for suppressing deterioration of a purifying function of an ozone purifying material is provided. Active oxygen is produced by an ozone purifying function of activated carbon. The probability that the active oxygen contacts with a fin of a radiator on a rear surface side is higher than that on a front surface side of the radiator. Accordingly, the activated carbon on the rear surface side of the radiator is easily oxidized as compared with the activated carbon on the front surface side. Therefore, in the fin, a coating amount of the activated carbon on the front surface side of the radiator is adjusted to be larger than a coating amount of the activated carbon on the rear surface side. Thus, the probability that the active oxygen contacts with the activated carbon can be reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2015
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yoshihisa Shinoda, Kazuhiro Sugimoto, Hiroaki Katsumata
  • Patent number: 8765072
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: HGI Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Guy J. E. Morneault
  • Patent number: 8337763
    Abstract: A system for removing unwanted contaminates from fluid using a scrubber, which comprises a housing, a reaction chamber having a liquid level, and an inlet connected to a source containing fluid to be scrubbed with a contamination concentration greater than zero ppb to saturation. An exit port connected to the housing used for evacuating scrubbed fluid and a sintered permeable membrane disposed across the reaction chamber, which provides a reaction zone in the plurality of pores when fluid to be scrubbed is introduced to the membrane on a first side while the membrane is immersed in the biodiesel or biomass and a cleaned fluid on a second side wherein the clean fluid initially has a drop in contamination concentration of at least 99 percent and gradually decreasing to 70 percent as additional fluid to be scrubbed is introduced to the plurality of pores without replacing the biodiesel or biomass.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Vapor Point, LLC
    Inventors: Jefferey St. Amant, Kenneth R. Matheson, Keith Nathan
  • Patent number: 8303697
    Abstract: A method for purifying polluted air having particle phase pollutants and gaseous phase pollutants is provided. The method comprising: separately purifying and treating particle phase and gaseous phase pollutants present in the air; providing a dust cleaning apparatus, a catalytic filter core and a valve for controlling an airflow path within an air purification apparatus; controlling the airflow path for the air to bypass the catalytic filter core in a way that: if the amount of particle phase pollutants is above a predetermined value, the valve is moved to the open position to enable the air to bypass the catalyst filtering core; if the amount of particle phase pollutants is less than a predetermined value, the valve is moved to the closed position to force the air to pass through the catalyst filtering core.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: Akos Advanced Technology Ltd.
    Inventors: Yiu Wai Chan, Sui Chun Law
  • Patent number: 8241563
    Abstract: An air sanitization system including a housing having an inlet and an outlet, an ozone generator disposed in the housing and positioned between the inlet and outlet, at least one fiber optic cable positioned in visible proximity to the ozone generator, a visible light detector, and a controller. The housing is configured to receive a flow of an oxygen-containing gas through the inlet, and the ozone generator generates ozone from the flow of oxygen-containing gas. The at least one fiber optic cable is configured to receive and transmit visible light from the ozone generator. The visible light detector detects an amount of visible light transmitted by the at least one fiber optic cable. The controller is in communication with the visible light detector for determining whether the amount of visible light transmitted by the at least one fiber optic cable corresponds to a failure of the ozone generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Hussmann Corporation
    Inventors: Michael P. Kolve, Nathan W. Provance, Dennis L. Wagner
  • Patent number: 8236237
    Abstract: A device and method for inactivating infectious biological or chemical agents using microwave-activated diazoluminomelanin (DALM). The agents are typically vacuumed into a load cavity, which is at least partially filled with DALM. The load is irradiated with microwaves via a cylindrical waveguide disposed under the load cavity, thereby inactivating or destroying the agents. The system is preferably temperature controlled and operation is preferably automated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Fiore Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: John Todd Elson, David E. Lane
  • Patent number: 8236240
    Abstract: The invention provides a method and system for conducting a continuous operation, flowing vapor phase decontamination in either an open loop or a closed loop. Using the method, a multi-component liquid decontaminant is vaporized and delivered into, through and out of a sealable enclosure by means of a carrier gas that is flowing into, through and out of said sealable enclosure. After leaving the enclosure, the vapor is captured in a cold-water bath and decomposed. The invention humidifies the carrier gas by passing it through a temperature controlled water bath to warm, or to cool, the carrier gas as necessary in order to bring the carrier gas to the desired temperature and humidity before it is combined with the vaporized sterilant and allowed to flow into the sealable enclosure. The concentration of the vapor sterilant and the percent saturation of the vapor sterilant are simultaneously controlled by controlling the rate at which the carrier gas flows and the rate at which the liquid sterilant is vaporized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Inventors: James Arthur Childers, Robert Warren Childers
  • Patent number: 8211208
    Abstract: A method for purifying polluted air having particle phase pollutants and gaseous phase pollutants is provided. The method comprising: separately purifying and treating particle phase and gaseous phase pollutants present in the air; providing a dust cleaning apparatus, a catalytic filter core and a valve for controlling an airflow path within an air purification apparatus; controlling the airflow path for the air to bypass the catalytic filter core in a way that: if the amount of particle phase pollutants is above a predetermined value, the valve is moved to the open position to enable the air to bypass the catalyst filtering core; if the amount of particle phase pollutants is less than a predetermined value, the valve is moved to the closed position to force the air to pass through the catalyst filtering core.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: Akos Advanced Technology Ltd.
    Inventors: Yiu Wai Chan, Sui Chun Law
  • Patent number: 8173067
    Abstract: A new, novel and useful disinfection and purification system comprised of organic compounds in synergistic action with selected metal ions and method of manufacture and use. One of the benefits that is derived from this system is the ability to quickly and easily treat a surface, fluid or medium for disinfection of bacteria, fungi, viruses, algae and protozoans, with a non-toxic, non-chlorinated mixture that effectively kills all such organisms in minutes or hours. The disinfection and purification system remains effective for long periods of time maintaining its disinfection capacity making it highly effective for stored or transported mediums such as potable drinking water. The disinfection and purification system may be incorporated with carbon block or membrane filters to disinfect filtered liquids such as water to render it potable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Inventor: Bradley J. Eldred
  • Patent number: 8153411
    Abstract: The invention relates to haloalkane dehalogenases and to polynucleotides encoding the haloalkane dehalogenases. In addition methods of designing new dehalogenases and method of use thereof are also provided. The dehalogenases have increased activity and stability at increased pH and temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Verenium Corporation
    Inventors: Jay M. Short, Toby Richardson, Dan E. Robertson, Kevin Gray
  • Patent number: 8048379
    Abstract: An air freshener includes a housing having at least a first compartment and a second compartment, each of the first and second compartments having vents. The air freshener includes a first fan unit disposed within the first compartment and a second fan unit disposed within the second compartment. The air freshener also includes a first fragrance emitting substance disposed within the first compartment proximate the first fan unit and a second fragrance emitting substance disposed within the second compartment proximate the second fan unit. A programmable processor is operatively connected to a power source and the first and second fan units and configured to drive at least one of the first and second fan units so as to promote discharge of one of the first and second fragrance emitting substances from the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Hyso Technology LLC
    Inventor: Simon Sassoon
  • Patent number: 8038935
    Abstract: Methods of removing odors, particularly odors within enclosed environments are provided which employ nanocrystalline metal oxide and metal hydroxide particles. The nanocrystalline particles are dispersed within an enclosed space so as to contact exposed surfaces located within the space such as walls, floors, upholstery, and the like and adsorb odor-causing materials located within the enclosed space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: NanoScale Corporation
    Inventors: Olga Koper, HaiDoo Kwen, Scott Toerber, Kyle Knappenberger, David Jones, Debbie Basco, Ken Klabunde, Bill Sanford
  • Patent number: 8038778
    Abstract: An apparatus (10) for purifying polluted air consisting of particle phase pollutants and gaseous phase pollutants, the apparatus (10) comprising: a dust level sensor (23) to measure the amount of particle phase pollutants in the polluted air; a dust removal component (14) to remove the particle phase pollutants from the polluted air; a catalyst filtering core (17) to decompose the gaseous phase pollutants by chemical reaction; a valve (22) for selectively controlling a path of air flow within the apparatus (10) and is movable between an open position and closed position, the valve (22) being positioned downstream from the dust removal component (14); wherein if the amount of particle phase pollutants measured by the dust level sensor (23) is above a predetermined value, the valve (22) is moved to the open position to enable the air to bypass the catalyst filtering core (17); and if the amount of particle phase pollutants measured by the dust level sensor (23) is less than a predetermined value, the valve (22)
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Akos Advanced Technology Ltd.
    Inventors: Yiu Wai Chan, Sui Chun Law
  • Patent number: 8012412
    Abstract: Described is an air and surface purifying device having a purifying cell structured for maximizing the realized photocatalytic reaction at a photocatalytic surface without using an additional ultraviolet bulb. The purifying cell positions at least three photocatalytic surfaces about a single ultraviolet bulb such that the photocatalytic surfaces substantially encompass the ultraviolet bulb and are saturated by ultraviolet light radiating from the ultraviolet bulb. Because the photocatalytic surfaces are saturated, the potential photocatalytic reaction at the photocatalytic surfaces is fully realized. Stated differently, the realized photocatalytic reaction is maximized. Because the purifying cell maximizes the realized photocatalytic reaction, the purifying cell maximizes the purifying capacity of the photocatalytic surface and, thus, the purifying cell itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Assignee: Vollara, LLC
    Inventors: James Normark, Neal Morris, Allen Johnston
  • Patent number: 7998426
    Abstract: A pumping system comprising at least one pump unit (2) with a vacuum pump casing in which there are multiple pumping stages that includes at least one pumped gas treatment system is provided. The pumped gas treatment system compromises at least one plasma source located inside the vacuum pump casing of the pump unit, to generate a plasma that at least partially decomposes certain gases passing through the pump unit. This reduces the size of the pumped gas treatment system and improves its efficiency so that a gas pumping and treatment system can be created that is sufficiently small as to allow it to be placed in close proximity to the process chambers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: Alcatel
    Inventors: Philippe Maquin, Thierry Neel, Roland Bernard
  • Patent number: 7887749
    Abstract: A new, novel and useful disinfection and purification system comprised of organic compounds in synergistic action with selected metal ions and method of manufacture and use. One of the benefits that is derived from this system is the ability to quickly and easily treat a surface, fluid or medium for disinfection of bacteria, fungi, viruses, algae and protozoans, with a non-toxic, non-chlorinated mixture that effectively kills all such organisms in minutes or hours. The disinfection and purification system remains effective for long periods of time maintaining its disinfection capacity making it highly effective for stored or transported mediums such as potable drinking water. The disinfection and purification system may be incorporated with carbon block or membrane filters to disinfect filtered liquids such as water to render it potable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Inventor: Bradley J. Eldred
  • Patent number: 7845213
    Abstract: Dispensers and refills for volatile liquids, such as fragrances, are disclosed. Dispensers and refills in combination with dispensers according to the present invention may comprise a volatile liquid and a housing. In certain embodiments, the volatile liquid of the present invention has a predetermined evaporation rate, measured and calculated by the method described herein. In other embodiments, the volatile liquid exhibits a predefined relative evaporation rate. In addition to the housing, the present invention includes optional components, such as a motorized fan and/or a wick, to facilitate release of the volatile liquid into the atmosphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Padma Prabodh Varanasi, Joel E. Adair, Michael C. Liptrot, Qing Song
  • Patent number: 7744833
    Abstract: Dispensers and refills for volatile liquids, such as fragrances, are disclosed. Dispensers and refills in combination with dispensers according to the present invention may comprise a volatile liquid and a housing. In certain embodiments, the volatile liquid of the present invention has a predetermined evaporation rate, measured and calculated by the method described herein. In other embodiments, the volatile liquid exhibits a predefined relative evaporation rate. In addition to the housing, the present invention includes optional components, such as a motorized fan and/or a wick, to facilitate release of the volatile liquid into the atmosphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Padma Prabodh Varanasi, Joel E. Adair, Michael C. Liptrot, Qing Song
  • Patent number: 7632459
    Abstract: A system and method for controlling operation of an ultraviolet air treatment device including an ultraviolet lamp positioned to treat air within an air handling system that operates in either an on state or an off state. The method includes activating the ultraviolet lamp, and determining the operational state of the air handling system. The ultraviolet lamp is deactivated upon expiration of a predetermined time period during which the air handling system remains in the off state. The predetermined time period is preferably 30-60 minutes, preferably 40 minutes for residential applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Tracy L. Lentz, Timothy J. Kensok, Jeffrey M. Hammer, Mark E. Stout, Richard N. Metzger, Jon W. Orr
  • Patent number: 7611637
    Abstract: Zero valent iron particles (14) having enhanced surface area are used to treat contaminated groundwater in-situ or above ground. Hollow and/or porous zero valent iron particles (14) having a generally spherical shape and porous surface are produced using a sacrificial substrate (10) and thermal treatment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: Lehigh University
    Inventor: Wei-xian Zhang
  • Patent number: 7585460
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for inhibiting the biological acidification of water which is in contact with materials containing sulfur in reduced form or with elemental sulfur, susceptible to oxidation on the part of Thiobacilli, comprising putting said materials in contact with soluble inorganic salts at concentrations ranging from 0.4 normal to saturation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Assignees: ENI S.p.A., Enitecnologie S.p.A.
    Inventors: Francesco Crescenzi, Antonella Crisari, Cesare Achille Piatti
  • Patent number: 7521030
    Abstract: A material contaminated with a solvent is treated with a hydrofluorocarbon to remove the contaminant. A preferred hydrofluorocarbon is tetrafluoroethane. Apparatus for carrying out the process is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2009
    Assignee: Glaxo Group Limited
    Inventor: Mazin Nicola
  • Patent number: 7498004
    Abstract: Ultraviolet radiation is used to disinfect air (105) in a flow tube (110), where the flow tube (110) includes total internal reflecting features (120) on a portion of its external surface and said ultraviolet radiation propagates through a portion of the flow tube via total internal reflection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventor: Robert J. Saccomanno
  • Patent number: 7485259
    Abstract: A new, novel and useful disinfection and purification system comprised of organic compounds in synergistic action with selected metal ions and method of manufacture and use. One of the benefits that is derived from this system is the ability to quickly and easily treat a surface, fluid or medium for disinfection of bacteria, fungi, viruses, algae and protozoans, with a non-toxic, non-chlorinated mixture that effectively kills all such organisms in minutes or hours. The disinfection and purification system remains effective for long periods of time maintaining its disinfection capacity making it highly effective for stored or transported mediums such as potable drinking water. The disinfection and purification system may be incorporated with carbon block or membrane filters to disinfect filtered liquids such as water to render it potable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2009
    Inventor: Bradley J. Eldred
  • Patent number: 7410624
    Abstract: A device for introducing active substances, such as aromatic substances, insecticides and the like, into ambient air, comprises a holder for a carrier with a wick impressed thereon, which carrier can be placed in the holder and is replaceable. A mechanism to be operated by hand is provided for operating an ignition element, which can be placed in the holder and is replaceable, as for instance a gas lighter, to enable a wick to be ignited when a carrier with this wick has been placed in the holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2008
    Assignee: Sara Lee/DE N.V.
    Inventors: Pedro Gaset Vinaixa, Jorge Miró Amenós
  • Patent number: 7404934
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for treating exhaust gases, which can be arranged in the exhaust-gas stream from an internal combustion engine or in the exhaust-gas line from stationary combustion installations and which has a feed-line connection stub and a discharge-line connection stub. Feed-line connection stub (3) and discharge-line connection stub (4) are held on the housing (6) which contains a filter material which has at least one fabric layer made from metal wires or metal fibers. For diversion, for retention of particulates from the in the incoming exhaust-gas stream (1) and for muffling in the exhaust-gas stream and for purification of exhaust gases, in the housing (6) there are shaped bodies (8) which consist of metallic materials (19.1, 19.2) as composite material (19), the empty spaces (11, 16, 17) which are present in the housing (6) being filled with metallic fiber material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2008
    Assignee: Drafas GmbH
    Inventor: Klaus Haag
  • Publication number: 20080098769
    Abstract: A method for retarding a greenhouse effect includes a) collecting a carbon dioxide component contained in the air, b) making the carbon dioxide component into a dry ice, and c) storing the dry ice in a storage space. Thus, the carbon dioxide is collected successively to reduce the carbon dioxide in the atmospheric layer quickly so as to retard the greenhouse effect efficiently so that the surface temperature on earth is kept at a normal state without rise. In addition, the carbon dioxide that is disposed at a gas state is made into a dry ice that is disposed at a solid state, so that the dry ice is stored in the storage space permanently, stably and safely without incurring evaporation or leakage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2006
    Publication date: May 1, 2008
    Inventor: Min-Ching Huang
  • Patent number: 7077994
    Abstract: Films comprising a blend of polyhydroxyalkanoate copolymer and destructured starch are disclosed. Laminates having a first layer comprising a PHA copolymer and a second layer comprising a PHA copolymer/starch blend or thermoplastic starch are also disclosed. Disposable articles comprising the environmentally degradable films or laminates are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Eric Bryan Bond, Isao Noda
  • Patent number: 7001571
    Abstract: Methods and systems for establishing Taylor-Couette flow in a fluid are provide. Aspects of the disclosed methods and systems incorporate Taylor-Couette flow in combination with a source of radiation to provide more uniform radiation exposure to the fluid and its components. Common problems of non-uniform radiation levels and concentration boundary layer effects in UV reactors are largely eliminated using the methods and devices provided herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Assignee: Georgia Tech Research Corporation
    Inventors: Larry Forney, John Pierson
  • Patent number: 6953517
    Abstract: In order to make it possible for an inhomogeneous residue generated in a pyrolysis plant to be separated continuously and in as fully graded a way as possible, specially selected components are combined with one anther in an advantageous configuration. An essential element of the plant is the separation of a coarse residue in a coarse screen and the subsequent separation of the remaining residue in a zigzag separator into a light residue and a heavy residue. By use of the plant, in particular, the carbon-containing constituents are separated from the remaining residue. The individual components are mostly configured to be self-cleaning for fault-free operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2005
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Joachim Boretzky, Anton Ebert, Leonhard Teschers, Winfried Von Rhein, Helmut Werdinig
  • Patent number: 6908597
    Abstract: An air sanitizing device for vehicles includes a casing attached to an air vent of the vehicle and having a passage defined therethrough. An ultraviolet LCD is located in the passage and powered by a power supply device connected to the casing. The power supply device can be powered by batteries, AC or DC electric current.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2005
    Inventors: Chug-Ming Chen, Chen-Chen Liu
  • Patent number: 6884390
    Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for applying a corrosion inhibiting material to an article. The method includes the steps of depositing a layer of corrosion inhibiting material onto a carrier film, applying the corrosion inhibiting material to the article, and separating the carrier film from the at least a portion of the corrosion inhibiting material. In a preferred embodiment, the corrosion inhibiting material is applied to rotors of disc brakes in new automotive vehicles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Assignee: FLEXcon Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Frank McConville, Richard Skov, John R. Pennace
  • Patent number: 6849234
    Abstract: A system and method for controlling operation of an ultraviolet air treatment device including an ultraviolet lamp positioned to treat air within an air handling system that operates in either an on state or an off state. The method includes activating the ultraviolet lamp, and determining the operational state of the air handling system. The ultraviolet lamp is deactivated upon expiration of a predetermined time period during which the air handling system remains in the off state. The predetermined time period is preferably 30-60 minutes, preferably 40 minutes for residential applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2005
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Tracy L. Lentz, Timothy J. Kensok, Jeffrey M. Hammer, Mark E. Stout, Richard N. Metzger, Jon W. Orr
  • Publication number: 20040265196
    Abstract: Dispensers and refills for volatile liquids, such as fragrances, are disclosed. Dispensers and refills in combination with dispensers according to the present invention may comprise a volatile liquid and a housing. In certain embodiments, the volatile liquid of the present invention has a predetermined evaporation rate, measured and calculated by the method described herein. In other embodiments, the volatile liquid exhibits a predefined relative evaporation rate. In addition to the housing, the present invention includes optional components, such as a motorized fan and/or a wick, to facilitate release of the volatile liquid into the atmosphere.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: Padma Prabodh Varanasi, Joel E. Adair, Michael C. Liptrot, Qing Song
  • Patent number: 6589670
    Abstract: Metal foils are soldered using a soldering material. The metal foils are disposed in layers and/or are wound in layers to form a honeycomb body. An aluminum content of the foils amounts to at least 6 wt. %. The material is based upon nickel and contains 17 to 23 wt. % chromium, 5 to 10 wt. % silicon, 18 to 20 wt. % iron, and less than 0.5 wt. % boron.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignee: EMITEC Gesellschaft fuer Emissionstechnologie mbH
    Inventor: Andree Bergmann
  • Patent number: 6237368
    Abstract: A method for regulating or controlling the content of NOx in the exhaust gases of a glass-melting furnace having several burners operated in alternation, wherein both the beginning and the end of a combustion break (FP+, FP−) are supplied to a binary signal generator (8) which passes a signal to a regulator (4) with a time delay and upon receipt of the time-regulator (4), and the amount of NH3 supplied to the denitrating plant is adjusted to a lower constant fixed value F1 via a control, and by means of a memory element (7) a higher constant fixed value F2 is calculated as amount of NH3 and supplied to the regulator (4), whereupon as soon as the regulator (4) has received the signal of the time-delayed end of a combustion break, the fixed value F1 is adjusted to the fixed value F2 via a control, and subsequently the regulation is directly continued.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Assignee: Metallgesellschaft Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Hans Beisswenger, Klaus Hasselwander, Hansjörg Herden, Gernot Mayer-Schwinning, Gurudas Samant, Peter Ludwig
  • Patent number: 6200476
    Abstract: In a process for transferring oxygen or an oxygen-containing gas into water or aqueous solutions in the treatment of water or aqueous solutions, oxygen or an oxygen-containing gas is added to the water or aqueous solution continuously or at intervals through an injector and simultaneously through at least one tube sparger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2001
    Assignee: Messer Griesheim GmbH
    Inventors: Sabine Donath, Monica Hermans
  • Patent number: 6090350
    Abstract: A system for separating constituents from a base material using RF energy which is coupled to a reaction chamber by way of a windowless transmission line. By eliminating the need for a window, traditional limitations placed on the maximum power delivered to the resonating cavity are eliminated. Thus, the only practical limitation on the RF energy which can be delivered to a resonating cavity are the ability of RF energy source to produce that energy and the ability of the resonating cavity to manage that energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Assignee: Wave Separation Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Stephen M. Birken, Karl Birken
  • Patent number: 6054097
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for disinfecting material such as a fluid stream, (e.g., water) or various objects (e.g., packaging, fruits, vegetables) using a high temperature expanding plasma emission source (EPES lamp) to generate intense pulses of ultraviolet light primarily in the 200-400 nm range. The EPES lamp is preferably mounted axially in a pipe through which the fluid to be disinfected is flowed or perpendicular to the direction of a fluid flow or an object conveyor. Each pulse is terminated before the resulting plasma within the EPES lamp reaches the inside surface of the EPES lamp wall so that the EPES lamp operates in an expanding plasma emission source mode rather than in a wall stabilized mode. The EPES lamp is operated at a plasma temperature of at least about 15,000.degree. K. and an energy density (Q) of at least about 300.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2000
    Assignee: Innovatech
    Inventors: Barton Mass, Robert LaFrenz, David LaFrenz
  • Patent number: 6013232
    Abstract: A method for increasing the effectiveness of a permeable treatment wall is described. The method includes the introduction of ultrasonic radiation in or near the wall. A permeable treatment wall is also described which has an ultrasonic radiation generating transducer in or near the wall. Permeable treatment walls are described as having either a well vertically extending into the wall, or a rod vertically extending into the treatment wall. Additionally, a method for adapting a permeable treatment wall to allow for the introduction of ultrasonic radiation in or near the wall is described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2000
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
    Inventors: Jacqueline W. Quinn, Christian A. Clausen, Cherie L. Geiger, Debra R. Reinhart, Nancy Ruiz
  • Patent number: 6010444
    Abstract: A method for containing potentially infectious devices. The potentially infectious devices are deposited in a container which contains a monomer, a reducing agent and water. An oxidizing agent is later added to cause polymerization of the monomer to immobilize the devices, and to act as a disinfecting agent due in large part to the exothermic nature of the reaction. In an alternate embodiment, the composition contains a monomer, a thickener and water. Before use, this solution is admixed with an oxidizing and reducing agent and the thickened solution is poured into a container having disposed therein potentially infectious devices. Related methods, kits, devices, and compositions are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2000
    Assignee: Isolyser Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Travis W. Honeycutt, Baosheng Lee, Dong Dai, Robert S. Woody
  • Patent number: 5993749
    Abstract: A molecularly implanted stimulated emitter (MISE) device in which high levels of ultraviolet radiation are applied to contamination in a contained fluid environment. The MISE device is primarily for use in a system for reducing biological organisms, such as virions and spores, in a liquid effluent to non-viable organic molecules, but it also can be used to drive chemical reactions, especially those to reduce the toxicity of toxic materials. The MISE device includes at least one ultraviolet source, such as a mercury vapor UV lamp, and secondary ultraviolet sources that absorb the peak UV frequencies of the lamp and emitting UV at other frequencies to fill in areas of the spectrum that are only weakly produced by the lamp. In this way, ultraviolet radiation is supplied at frequencies that are readily absorbed and operate to disassociate any viable DNA and RNA strands in the fluid, to thereby cause "death".
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Assignee: Amphion International, Limited
    Inventor: Billy J. Adams
  • Patent number: 5993737
    Abstract: The invention provides for the treatment of raw water having a pH of 2.5 to 9, an alkalinity of at most 50 mg/l expressed as calcium carbonate, a calcium content of at most 100 mg/l expressed as calcium carbonate, and a positive calcium carbonate dissolution potential. The process comprises separating part of the water from the remainder thereof and acidifying the part to increase its calcium carbonate dissolution potential. The acidified water is then fed through a bed of particles comprising calcium carbonate where the water consumes part of the calcium carbonate thereby increasing the calcium content and the alkalinity of the water which issues from the bed. The water issuing from the bed is then mixed with the remainder of the raw water to obtain an at least partially treated product water having a positive calcium carbonate dissolution potential which is at least 2 mg/l calcium carbonate less than that of the raw water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Assignee: Implico B.V.
    Inventors: Grant S. Mackintosh, Hendrik A. De Villiers
  • Patent number: 5989497
    Abstract: A process and apparatus are provided for deodorizing malodorous solids, liquids, and/or gases by contacting them with a mist of an aqueous deodorizing solution consisting of an alkali metal or alkaline earth metal chlorite, buffering agent(s), water, and optionally an alkali metal or alkaline earth metal chlorate and/or an alkali metal alkaline earth metal chloride. The preferred alkali metal is sodium. The deodorizing solution contains available chlorine dioxide and has a pH of about 8.5-9.5. In the process a concentrated solution of the deodorizing solution is diluted and mixed with water and misted into or onto the substance(s) to be deodorized, for example, the sewer gases from a sewage lift station. The apparatus consists of a rotameter which measures the amount of the concentrated deodorizing solution introduced into an eductor for dilution in a passing water stream which is then transported to spray nozzles for misting the malodorous substance(s).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Inventor: Roland R. Labonte, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5980824
    Abstract: A microwave applicator chamber to effectively sterilize animal waste having a series of rotating chamber sectors carrying the waste under a source of intense radio frequency energy. The animal waste emerges free of pathogens and odor causing bacteria, ready for incorporation into plant fertilizers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Inventor: Henry H. Kartchner
  • Patent number: 5972291
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for rendering infectious and medical waste safe through heating and the disposal of said waste includes a body portion with a chamber to receive a container of medical waste. The chamber is connected with a filter for biological materials which escape from the waste container during heating. The contaminants are directed toward the filter by flowing out gas from the container in a predetermined direction as the waste container is heated to a temperature of preferably not less than 350.degree. F. and preferably not more than 385.degree. F. to render the waste biologically safe and unreusable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Assignee: Thermal Waste Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas Healy, Eric Schink, Jonathan Bricken
  • Patent number: 5965091
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a filled paper for gas filtration, with a high adsorption and absorption capacity. This paper, consisting of cellulose fibers, is filled with organic and/or inorganic powders adapted in quantity and in quality to the gas to be treated.It finds its application in the petroleum, chemical, agri-foodstuffs and papermaking industries, in apartment buildings and in office and hospital buildings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1999
    Assignees: Elf Antar France, Ahlstrom
    Inventors: Francois-Pierre Navarre, Bernard Bossand, Pierre Girard, Joseph Dussaud
  • Patent number: 5965093
    Abstract: A system for reducing biological organisms in a liquid effluent to no-viable organic molecules that includes: a stunning chamber (38) that applies a voltage potential across biological organisms to break cell membranes and disable the defense mechanisms of viral organisms to ultraviolet radiation; a cavitation chamber (86) to physically destroy any remaining membranes of biologicals in the effluent that may play host to viral organisms or allow such to hide therein, the action of the stunning and cavitation chambers releasing interferons; and a molecularly implanted stimulated emitter (MISE) chamber (108) in which high levels of ultraviolet radiation and electromagnetic energy are applied to virions and spores that remain at frequencies that are readily absorbed and operate to dissociate any viable DNA and RNA strands remaining, to thereby cause "death". The resulting effluent is pulsed through the stunning, cavitation, and MISE chambers to gain maximum effect thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1999
    Assignee: Amphion International, Limited
    Inventor: Billy J. Adams
  • Patent number: 5961919
    Abstract: A deodorizing and disinfecting apparatus having catalyst deterioration detection function of the present invention comprises: an air supply portion for inhaling air inside; an ozone generating portion for discharging ozone to the inhaled air: a catalyst for accelerating deodorizing and disinfecting actions and decomposition of the ozone disposed downstream from the ozone generating portion; an ozone sensor for detecting the concentration of remaining ozone disposed downstream from the catalyst; and means for repeating a cycle including stop of ozone discharge from the ozone generating portion for a predetermined time period when the concentration of the remaining ozone reaches a predetermined concentration or more, and for determining that the catalyst is deteriorated when a condition wherein an interval between times when the concentration of the remaining ozone is not less than a predetermined concentration becomes shorter than a predetermined time period is recognized at a predetermined frequency, and then
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1999
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hirokazu Tachibana, Akiyoshi Hattori, Nobuyuki Yoshiike, Akihiko Yoshida
  • Patent number: RE38130
    Abstract: A system for reducing biological organisms in a liquid effluent to non-viable organic molecules that includes: a stunning chamber that applies a voltage potential across biological organisms to break cell membranes and disable the defense mechanisms of vital organisms to ultraviolet radiation; a cavitation chamber to physically destroy any remaining membranes of biologicals in the effluent that may play host to vital organisms or allow such to hide therein, the action of the stunning and cavitation chambers releasing interferons; and a molecularly implanted stimulated emitter (MISE) chamber in which high levels of ultraviolet radiation are applied to virions and spores that remain at frequencies that are readily absorbed and operate to disassociate any viable DNA and RNA strands remaining, to thereby cause “death”. Prior to the stunning chamber, preferably the effluent has any large solids therein, settled, floated or filtered out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Assignee: Amphion International Limited
    Inventor: Billy Joe Adams