Abstract: The present invention provides an indicator useful in confirming successful sterilisation and/or nucleic acid decontamination by ethylene oxide (EtO) treatment. The invention also provides a label comprising said indicator and methods for use of the indicator and label in a method of EtO treatment.

Abstract: A wearable pollutant indicator, methods of making and using same. The indicator includes a polymeric film substrate having a first side and a second side, an adhesive disposed on the first side of the substrate, and a readily understood user interface disposed on the second side of the substrate, wherein the user interface comprises a qualitative indicator of the accumulated exposure to incident airborne particulate pollution as sensed through the reaction of the transition metal oxides therein.

Abstract: A peracetic acid decontamination chemical indicator including a substrate and an indicator composition disposed thereon, where the indicator composition comprises a colorant that changes color when exposed to a peracetic acid solution but does not change color when exposed to a hydrogen peroxide solution, an acidified hydrogen peroxide solution, or an acetic acid solution, and where the indicator composition does not include a transition metal salt or a halogen source, and methods of using the chemical indicator.

Abstract: A surface coating for a medical instrument includes an interference filter having at least one dielectric layer and at least one metallic layer arranged one above another. At least one of the at least one metallic layer and the at least one dielectric layer is adapted to be structurally altered by action of a corrosive environment on the surface coating such that the surface coating is convertible from a first state to a second state. In the first state, the surface coating has a first spectral reflectivity. In the second state, the surface coating has a second spectral reflectivity that is different from the first spectral reflectivity.

Abstract: A sterile display for a sterile container includes a thermally actuatable display apparatus for the display of a first and a second sterility condition of the sterile container. The display apparatus includes an adjustment mechanism having an actuator element which can be transferred, by external heating, from a first stress state in which the first sterility condition can be displayed, to a second stress state in which the second sterility condition can be displayed. The adjustment mechanism includes a thermo-bimetal element wherein, by its actuation, the actuator element of the adjustment mechanism can be transferred from the first stress state to the second stress state.

Abstract: A method for analyzing molecular pollutants of a fluid. From a calibrated flow of fluid, a combination of a measurement of a total amount of molecular pollutants and a determination of chemical compositions and relative amounts of the molecular pollutants by adsorption on materials is carried out. The determination of the chemical compositions and relative amounts advantageously occur after a threshold value for the total measured amount is exceeded.

Abstract: In an input device, a controller for controlling an input portion and acquiring data is connected to a bus. The bus can be connected with an external expansion device via an expansion connector. The connection of the bus from the expansion connector to the controller is switched on and off by a switcher. Data acquired from a sensor having a function equivalent to that of the external expansion device is transmitted to the controller via the bus by a sensor controller which is connected to each of a side of the controller and a side of the expansion connector of the bus without interposing the switcher. The sensor controller switches the connection of the switcher off when an access to itself is made from the controller.

Abstract: An oxidative dye indicator composition comprising an indicator dye that has been pre-reacted with a reducing agent prior to use in an oxidizing or disinfectant sterilizing system. The pre-reacted dye, when subjected to an oxidizing disinfection or sterilization agent, such as peracetic acid or hydrogen peroxide, under goes a visible color change and thus can serve as a chemical, process, or chemical integrator, indicator. The dyes include various azines, thiazines, and oxazines compounds and the reducing agents include alkali metal alkoxides and alkaline earth metal alkoxide compounds.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for combustion analysing a sample comprising determining incomplete combustion in a combustion analyser having a combustion chamber. A sample is supplied to the combustion chamber and combusted to produce combustion products. A target gas characteristic of incomplete combustion of the sample is detected in the combustion products by a target gas sensor. The target gas may be carbon monoxide, methane, methanal and/or methanol, among others. Whether incomplete combustion of the sample has occurred may be determined. A signal indicative of incomplete combustion is output from the target gas sensor and the combustion products can be directed to waste using a valve disposed upstream of the target gas sensor.

Abstract: A gas analyzer system for analyzing samples of compressed or ambient gas such as breathing air within a scuba tank, SCBA or ambient air within an industrial plant and informing the user as to the results of the sample's gas purity without the gas sample having to be physically transported to an accredited laboratory. The system comprises a gas analyzer situated at a user facility for receiving the contents of a gas sample and detecting gas purity characteristics, and a server situated at a remote certified testing site and electrically coupled to the gas analysis module via data transmission, such as a wireless or a computer network connection, wherein the server, maintained by a qualified third party receives and stores the gas purity characteristics in the form of computer-readable data signals.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a spectrometer for measuring submillimeter absorption. The spectrometer may include a solid state exciter generating a submillimeter wave and sweeping a predetermined frequency band, a frequency marker generating unit electrically generating frequency markers, a sample cell to contain a gas, and a solid-state detector detecting a submillimeter absorption of the gas. A spectrometer energizes a solid-state oscillator to generate a submillimeter wave and to sweep a predetermined band of frequency. The submillimeter wave is introduced into a sample cell containing a gas and frequency markers that are electrically generated during the sweep. Outputs of a solid-state detector disposed in the sample cell are read and recorded as a function of time and with the frequency markers. The recorded outputs of the solid-state detector are converted into a function of frequency using the recorded frequency markers.

Abstract: A gas analyzer system for analyzing samples of compressed or ambient gas such as breathing air within a scuba tank, SCBA or ambient air within an industrial plant and informing the user as to the results of the sample's gas purity without the gas sample having to be physically transported to an accredited laboratory. The system comprises a gas analyzer situated at a user facility for receiving the contents of a gas sample and detecting gas purity characteristics, and a server situated at a remote certified testing site and electrically coupled to the gas analysis module via data transmission, such as a wireless or a computer network connection, wherein the server, maintained by a qualified third party receives and stores the gas purity characteristics in the form of computer-readable data signals.

Abstract: There is provided a device (10) for monitoring sterilization of a material with steam comprising at least one layer (20), having incorporated therein an isomeric indicator (22), capable of undergoing at least one color change and optionally a controller (23) for said indicator capable of influencing the time and temperature required for said color change when contact with steam. Composed of polymeric binder (21).

Abstract: An indicator system provides a visual indication of the cumulative level of an airborne contaminant. The indicator is a transparent sheath with support medium having an acidic surface and treated with a color pH indicator. As a basic contaminant is adsorbed by the medium, the medium color changes. As additional contaminant is adsorbed, the color front progresses the length of the indicator. The indicator system may be used with an adsorptive filter system to predict the life of adsorption bed assemblies. A sample flow is taken upstream of the adsorption beds and is passed through the indicator. Preferably, the flow rate is calibrated so that the rate of the color change in the indicator is proportional to the rate of depletion of the adsorption bed. By monitoring the indicator, an accurate prediction of adsorption bed life may be made.

Abstract: An indicator system provides a visual indication of the cumulative level of an airborne contaminant. An indicator has a transparent sheath with support medium treated with acid and a pH indicator, as the contaminant is adsorbed, the color changes along the medium. The indicator system may be used with an adsorptive filter system to predict the life of adsorption bed assemblies. A sample flow is taken upstream of the adsorption beds and is calibrated with a flow meter and valve. By monitoring the indicator, an accurate prediction of adsorption bed life may be made.

Abstract: The invention comprises a novel sample introduction system which incorporates a venturi pump to convey a sample gas to an analytical instrument at atmospheric pressure. An APCI, ICP or MIP mass spectrometer is preferred as the analytical instrument. Using such an inlet with an APCI mass spectrometer, the real-time analysis of trace materials present in breath is facilitated, enabling, for example, the release of compounds responsible for aroma and taste to be analysed during eating and drinking. The invention can also be used for headspace analysis and for monitoring the release of fragrances from skin or clothing.

Abstract: Steam quality is measured by mixing the steam with a small amount of surfactant to convert the steam to a stable foam, passing the stable foam through a capillary tube to determine foam quality (volume of vapor per volume of vapor and liquid) by measuring the streaming potential coupling coefficient of the foam passing through the tube, and converting foam quality (volume per volume) to steam quality (mass of vapor per mass of vapor and liquid) based upon the fluid density of the liquid-water and water-vapor phase of the steam.

Abstract: In a diagnostic method wherein steam condensate is evaluated, the proportion of condensate water from one steam source, versus other steam sources, is determined by adding at an addition point a tracer that is selectively carried over into the steam.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for practice in an over-the-road vehicle to determine whether effluent water released in an operating water treatment system (plant installation) can be adequately treated to remove contaminants so the effluent may be reused at the plant rather than discharged to the environment with inimical effect. The frame of the vehicle supporting a plurality of clean holding tanks, a plurality of functionally different water treating units, an analysis laboratory, a pilot cooling tower simulator, and a pilot boiler simulator. The effluent is transferred from one of the holding tanks to at least one of the water treating units to reduce the contaminant level. When the contaminant level has been reduced to a level appropriate for reuse at the plant, the effluent is transferred to one of the simulator apparatus for evaluation of the treated water in the corresponding plant process.

Abstract: A method for detecting the presence of sugars in the water of a steam generating system by using an indicator composition comprised of potassium permanganate and an acetate in an aqueous solution. After a period of time, depending upon the temperature of the sample tested, the color of the sample is observed to determine if sugars are present in the water.

Abstract: Water testing means for monitoring circulating water coolant in service within a water cooled nuclear reactor system is disclosed. The invention is an improvement in such water testing means and comprises a preconditioning of selected sample specimens of water with a pH adjustment for inhibiting unbalancing an equilibrium in solution of water coolant with ion solutes.

Abstract: Concentration cycles, percent life holding time for a component in the boiler and continuous treatment concentrations are monitored or determined in a boiler system by adding to the feedwater an inert tracer in a predetermined concentration C.sub.I, which reaches a final concentration C.sub.F at steady state in the boiler and which exhibits a blowdown concentration C.sub.t at different points in time. The component is an inert tracer having no significant carryover in the steam, nor significant degradation during boiler cycles. The tracer is monitored by continuously converting a characteristic of its concentration to an analog which may be recorded as a function of time.

Abstract: A corrosion product monitoring system and method are described using a recirculation loop including a sample line, a particulate collection vessel, a recirculating pump, a microporous membrane "cross-flow" filter, and valves to control the flow rate and pressure of a fluid sample taken from the secondary fluid system of a nuclear power plant. The liquid sample is processed at a constant flow rate and temperature. When a relatively short time has elapsed in a trial sample run to stabilize conditions in the sample line, an actual sample run is started by feeding sample into the loop. Non-soluble, particulate concentration increases in the filter and particulate collection vessel as the run progresses. The permeate of soluble contaminants is passed through an ion exchange column to concentrate soluble ions in the sample. The filter is backwashed on a timed cycle by filtered water pressurized by a pump, or gas pressure, by realigning the system valves.

Abstract: A process is disclosed for monitoring the quality of water, said process comprising a first heated zone, means for introducing at least a portion of said water into said first heated zone, means for gently evaporating at least part of the water in the first heated zone and passing the vapor into and through a second heated zone, means for maintaining the temperature of said second heated zone in the range of from about 450.degree. to about 1000.degree. C., means for collecting and condensing vapor from said second heated zone to condensed liquid water and means for measuring the electrical impedance of at least a portion of said condensed liquid water.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for monitoring the quality of water, said apparatus comprising a first heated zone, means for introducing at least a portion of said water into said first heated zone, means for gently evaporating at least part of the water in the first heated zone and passing the vapor into and through a second heated zone, means for maintaining the temperature of said second heated zone in the range of from about 450.degree. to about 1000.degree. C., means for collecting and condensing vapor from said second heated zone to condensed liquid water and means for measuring the electrical impedance of at least a portion of said condensed liquid water.

Abstract: Method for monitoring changes in contaminant concentration levels between a feedwater inlet and a steam outlet in a steam generating system and system for detecting sources of contaminants in a steam generating system. The method includes a reliable means for detecting organic contaminants, chlorides, sulfides and nitrides. The invention also includes a method for determining whether the organic compounds are chlorinated, sulfinated or nitrogenated. The method is based on monitoring of ion concentration levels and cation exchanged conductivities in samples of feedwater and steam.

Abstract: A continuous gas/steam ratio monitor is disclosed for use with a geothermal fluid source. A sample of the geothermal well steam flow is mechanically separated to eliminate condensate and treated with sulfuric acid to a pH between 3.0 and 5.0 to prevent H.sub.2 S and CO.sub.2 from dissolving into solution. Discharge of the steam occurs to a separating reservoir and then to a vertical condenser column having a lower condensate pool and an upper gas discharge outlet. The vertical condenser at its cooling fluid end is connected to an atmospheric heat exchanger to condense the steam close to the boiling temperature of water at the operating pressure (about 20-25 inches of mercury). Thus the condensate has the maximum tendency to liberate dissolved noncondensible gases. The upper discharge end of the column is cooled by a refrigeration unit and is kept close to the freezing point of water (about 33.degree. F.). Thus, most of the water vapor mixed in the gas is removed.

Abstract: Decomposable organic compounds can, at times, be contained in the feedwater for steam generators; these decomposable compounds can stem from the untreated water supply or from the recondensate if the steam is utilized as heating steam for chemical plants and the condensate is recycled into the steam generator. The decomposition products can lead to damage to the material in the steam generator during long-term exposure.A partial stream of the feedwater is continuously examined for such compounds; as soon as these occur, they are disintegrated in the partial stream by UV light. The decomposition products are detected by measuring conductivity and/or by means of ion-sensitive electrodes. This measuring process works very rapidly and is highly sensitive, making it possible to consistently recognize contaminated water quantities and then to remove same in a controlled fashion from the feedwater stream for the steam generator or to process same into unobjectionable feedwater.

Abstract: An on-line and continuous sampling system for monitoring the ionic content of steam-producing water in a steam-operated electrical power plant. The monitoring system comprises a plurality of sampling lines and associated apparatus for sampling the steam-producing water at a number of different points in the power plant, an ion chromatographic subsystem for analyzing the sampled water, a calibration subsystem for calibrating the ion chromatographic subsystem, and an automatic control subsystem for operating the monitoring system of the present invention.

Abstract: A liquid sample subject to inclusion of impurities is concentrated by a predetermined concentration factor selected by an operator, with the concentrated sample being thereafter provided to an analyzer so that a meaningful chemical analysis may be performed. A first pump delivers the sample to a liquid reservoir at a first rate and the liquid is boiled to provide a liquid-vapor mixture, with the liquid portion of the mixture being returned to the reservoir by means of a vapor separator. Another pump delivers the concentrated reservoir fluid to an analyzer at a second flowrate, with the ratio of the flowrate of the first pump to the second pump being equivalent to the desired concentration factor. In another embodiment, a faster response time is attained by first boiling the input sample and providing the liquid which is separated from the liquid-vapor mixture to a relatively small reservoir.

Abstract: A gaseous stream of steam is analyzed for hydrogen sulfide by keeping the gas stream above its dew point while withdrawing a representative sample, mixing the sample with a gas having a dew point lower than that of the gaseous stream to form a mixture with a dew point below that of the gaseous stream, and analyzing the mixture at a temperature above its dew point for hydrogen sulfide.