Abstract: A fluid processing apparatus having a housing (2), which at least substantially seals a fluid chamber fluid chamber (18, 20) from the external environment. At least one sensor device (26, 40, 60) provides information regarding the state of the fluid located in the fluid chamber (18, 20), such as pressure, moisture level, temperature or viscosity and/or provides information regarding the motion of a separating element (16) that can be moved within the fluid chamber (18, 29). At least one component (40, 60) of the sensor device can be included as an interchangeable, modular component in a part (6) of the housing (2) such that the component (40, 60) has an inlet (42) to the fluid located in the fluid chamber (18, 20).

Abstract: A method of detecting hydrate formation includes monitoring a gas phase of interest. The gas phase is a mixture of gases comprising at least one hydrate forming gas. The monitoring includes determining the concentration of at least one component of the mixture of gases, or determining a ratio of concentration between two components of the mixture, at least one of which is the hydrate forming gas. When a change in the determined concentration or in the determined ratio of concentration is detected, relative to an earlier determination or relative to a pre-established base level concentration or base level range of concentration then formation of a hydrate is indicated. Apparatus for carrying out the method and methods for estimating the location of hydrate formation in a pipeline are also described.

Abstract: The safety and proper performance of jet aircraft engines requires that any contamination of jet fuel, for example by water or by improper contaminants, be filtered (removed) before delivery of the fuel, through hoses, to the fuel tanks of the aircraft. Coalescing devices and filters in the fuel delivery system are used to attain this result. A typical problem is that filter materials chemically react with surfactants, and this causes the filter subsequently to “disarm” or fail to perform its function of removing water, which can lead to delivery of fuel containing excessive water. A solution to this problem is to pre-test the fuel for such surfactants by feeding a small fuel sample that has been mixed with “challenge water” through a smaller ‘representative’ test filter and monitor the performance. Using a fluorescent dye in the “challenge water,” the amount of water that passes the test filter is detected, compared with a baseline data and fuel quality determination is made.

Abstract: A method of detecting hydrate formation includes monitoring a gas phase of interest. The gas phase is a mixture of gases comprising at least one hydrate forming gas. The monitoring includes determining the concentration of at least one component of the mixture of gases, or determining a ratio of concentration between two components of the mixture, at least one of which is the hydrate forming gas. When a change in the determined concentration or in the determined ratio of concentration is detected, relative to an earlier determination or relative to a pre-established base level concentration or base level range of concentration then formation of a hydrate is indicated. Apparatus for carrying out the method and methods for estimating the location of hydrate formation in a pipeline are also described.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are described for sampling and diluting concentrated emulsions, which may be oil-in-water emulsions, water-in-oil emulsions, or other concentrated emulsions. One method embodiment of the invention comprises obtaining a sample of a concentrated emulsion comprising a dispersed phase and a continuous phase fluid; measuring droplet concentration of the dispersed phase in the sample; and for droplet concentration of the sample greater than about 1000 ppm, diluting the sample with substantially pure continuous phase fluid, forming a first diluted emulsion. Methods of the invention include those wherein the obtaining of a sample comprises opening a fluid connection to a flowing stream comprising the concentrated emulsion, wherein the obtaining and diluting steps occur in real time.

Abstract: A gaming system including a central server linked to a plurality of gaming machines and a plurality of bonus awards. The central server monitors wagers on the gaming machines. Based at least in part on the wagers the central server determines when bonus events will occur and which gaming machine(s) will provide the bonus awards. In one embodiment, the central server determines which gaming machine will provide a primary bonus award and any secondary bonus awards, wherein at least one gaming machine may be provided a plurality of bonus awards.

Abstract: A television includes a device memory for storing a plurality of data files; an interface for connecting an external device to the television; and a detector used for detecting whether the external device is connected to the television and detecting whether the external device has files, and generating a file detected signal when the external device has files; a process module configured for detecting whether the files in the external device are the same as the files in the device memory, and outputting options for selection when the files in the external device is not the same as the files in the device memory; an input module for receiving operational inputs and generating optional selection signal when receiving the options from the process module; the process module is further configured for generating an add signal when detecting a voltage of the optional selection signal is high; an add module used for copying the files from the external device to the television based on the add signal.

Abstract: A small-scale dynamic simulator for crude oil refinery desalters has a pressurized oil deviblis configured to hold a supply of crude oil and a water deviblis configured to hold a supply of wash water. At least one chemical feed pump selectively adds emulsion breaker chemicals to the desalter simulator and a low shear metering pump is configured to pump crude oil and wash water through the desalter simulator. An emulsion forming device forms a crude oil-wash water emulsion that is then received in a desalter vessel. The desalting vessel is fitted with electric grids which simulate those found in electric desalters. The emulsion is resolved within the desalter vessel with the assistance of the emulsion breaker chemicals so the wash water and crude oil form distinct phases, with substantially desalted crude oil removed from an upper portion of the desalter vessel and substantially oil-free wash water removed from a bottom portion of the desalter vessel.

Abstract: A demand initiated method for regenerating a water softener which operates the softener ion exchange bed over a capacity range in which the resin is most efficiently restored by exposure to brine. The reserve capacity of the softener is adjusted in response to the amount of softening capacity used since the last regeneration, as is the quantity of saturated brine to be used for the next regeneration, which is scheduled when the reserve capacity is exceeded, or the remaining available capacity will not be adequate for expected usage on the next day of the week. The method schedules a regeneration when the amount of exchange capacity of the resin bed used since the last regeneration plus the variation of exchange capacity used on the next day plus the average exchange capacity of the resin bed used on the next day is greater than the selected design exchange capacity.

Abstract: Performance of equipment, such as a desalter, in a refinery is monitored in real-time and on-line to minimize fouling of downstream equipment. Using an instrument to measure particles and droplets in-process allows monitoring of the various operations to optimize performance. Such measurement can also be used during crude oil blending to detect asphaltene precipitates that can cause fouling and can be used for monitoring other fouling streams.

Abstract: Systems and methods for measuring the moisture and sediment content of a sample. In one embodiment, a sample to be tested is collected in a field bottle. The sample from the field bottle is then transferred from the field bottle, and into and through an analysis bottle containing a desiccant material. As the sample is being pulled through the analysis bottle, a microwave measurement system (or other scattering parameter measuring system) is used to measure the effects of the sample on the scattering parameters of the desiccant material. By measuring the effects of the sample on the scattering parameters of the desiccant material, the sample's moisture content can be determined. The sample's moisture can also be determined by measuring the expanded volume of the desiccant. A filter section having a sight glass with graduations is used to determine the sediment content of the sample.

Abstract: A semiconductor sensing field effect transistor uses an organic unimolecular film formed on a gate insulating layer. In the semiconductor sensing field effect transistor and a semiconductor sensing device, the gate insulating layer has a stack structure wherein a second silicon oxide layer is stacked on a first silicon oxide layer through a silicon nitride layer. A semiconductor sensor chip and the semiconductor sensing device are provided with a field effect transistor chip wherein the gate insulating layer, a source electrode and a drain electrode are integrated on a silicon board, a source electrode terminal wiring connected with the source electrode, and a drain electrode terminal wiring connected with the drain electrode.

Abstract: An gaming machine for and method of par-mutuel wagering that allows individuals to continuously place multiple casino and lottery styled pari-mutuel wagers on simulcast live and/or recorded pari-mutuel race events. The gaming machine includes a display screen to provide a graphic display of a plurality of pari-mutuel gaming options to a player, and a selection device operable by the player to select at least one of the pari-mutuel gaming options displayed on the screen, the selection device operable by the player to input a wager corresponding to the selected at least one pari-mutuel gaming option. The gaming machine has the ability to be linked to a network of gaming machines in pari-mutuel and/or other wagering venues.

Abstract: The present invention provides, a system and method for unobtrusively determining water content within a fuel cell. One embodiment of a system in accordance with the present invention includes a fuel cell body including an ionomeric membrane, water and a fluorophore contained therein. The system further includes a medium for permitting light transfer therein, such as an optical fiber, having opposing ends, wherein one end contacts or is disposed in a portion of the ionomeric membrane and the other end extends from the fuel cell body. The other end is preferably divided into at least two portions, one portion being operatively associated with a light source, and another portion being operatively associated with a spectrometer.

Abstract: Systems and methods for measuring the moisture and sediment content of a sample. In one embodiment, a sample to be tested is collected in a field bottle. The sample from the field bottle is then transferred from the field bottle, and into and through an analysis bottle containing a desiccant material. As the sample is being pulled through the analysis bottle, a microwave measurement system (or other scattering parameter measuring system) is used to measure the effects of the sample on the scattering parameters of the desiccant material. By measuring the effects of the sample on the scattering parameters of the desiccant material, the sample's moisture content can be determined. The sample's moisture can also be determined by measuring the expanded volume of the desiccant. A filter section having a sight glass with graduations is used to determine the sediment content of the sample.

Abstract: A process for producing lube basestocks involving solvent dewaxing a waxy feed to produce at least a partially dewaxed lube oil boiling range stream and then hydrodewaxing the partially dewaxed lube oil boiling range stream to produce a lube basestock.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for analyzing a lubricating oil for low temperature properties. The method utilizes 2-dimensional gas chromatography (2D GC) to determine the amounts of paraffins and isoparaffins in the oil. In particular, the method analyzes for a particular isoparaffin fraction which is correlated to low temperature performance. The compositional information thus obtained is correlated with formulated oil Mini Rotary Viscometer (MRV) properties.

Abstract: A method of measuring the amount of an analyte in a sample, comprises (a) passing the sample through a flow channel in or on a holographic sensor, wherein the analyte interacts with and is retained by the sensor and wherein the interaction of the analyte changes an optical property of the sensor, and (b) monitoring analyte interaction, wherein the distance along the flow channel at which analyte interaction occurs or the area of the channel over which analyte interaction occurs, indicates the amount of analyte in the sample. Further, a method of detecting an analyte in a sample, comprises (a) passing the sample through a flow channel in or on a holographic sensor, wherein the analyte interacts with the sensor, thereby changing an optical property of the sensor, and wherein the flow channel defines a symbol; and (b) detecting the analyte by observing the appearance, disappearance or change in appearance of the symbol.

Abstract: Systems and methods for measuring the moisture and sediment content of a petroleum sample. In one embodiment, a sample to be tested is collected in a field bottle. The sample from the field bottle is then transferred from the field bottle, and into and through a measurement column containing a high-uptake gelling agent, such as a superabsorbent polymer. The sample's moisture is determined by measuring the expanded volume of the high-uptake gelling agent. The measurement column also contains a sediment measurement section having a sediment filter and a sight glass with graduations to measure the sediment content of the sample.

Abstract: Performance of equipment, such as a desalter, in a refinery is monitored in real-time and on-line to minimize fouling of downstream equipment. Using an instrument to measure particles and droplets in-process allows monitoring of the various operations to optimize performance. Such measurement can also be used during crude oil blending to detect asphaltene precipitates that can cause fouling and can be used for monitoring other fouling streams.

Abstract: Systems and methods for measuring the moisture and sediment content of a petroleum sample. In one embodiment, a sample to be tested is collected in a field bottle. The sample from the field bottle is then transferred from the field bottle, and into and through a measurement column containing a high-uptake gelling agent, such as a superabsorbent polymer. The sample's moisture is determined by measuring the expanded volume of the high-uptake gelling agent. The measurement column also contains a sediment measurement section having a sediment filter and a sight glass with graduations to measure the sediment content of the sample.

Abstract: Karl Fischer reagent comprising iodide, sulphur dioxide with an initial concentration above 0.5 M, and imidazole/imidazole derivative dissolved in alcoholic solvent, whereby the molar ratio between the initial imidazole/imidazole derivative concentration and the initial sulphur dioxide concentration is above 10. The reagent contains a modifying substance that is an aliphatic hydrocarbon, or a primary or secondary alcohol, or a combination thereof. A method for the determination of water content by means of Karl Fischer coulometric titration in a diaphragm-free cell, whereby the Karl Fischer reagent is used, and the coulometric titration is carried out in a diaphragm-free cell. Use of the Karl Fischer reagent in a method for the determination of water content by means of coulometric titration.

Abstract: A method for evaluating concentration of metal impurities contained in a silicon wafer, which comprises dropping concentrated sulfuric acid onto a surface of the silicon wafer to extract metal impurities solid-solubilized in the inside of the silicon wafer into the concentrated sulfuric acid, and chemically analyzing metal impurities contained in the concentrated sulfuric acid. The problem imposed on high sensitivity evaluation of metals contained in silicon bulk is, in addition to increase of sensitivity of analysis apparatus itself, how to extract metals contained in a silicon wafer to a surface and recover them. This problem can be solved by the method of the present invention.

Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus and method for measuring the content of water in unrefined hydrocarbons through the application of a refractive index comprising a capacitance measuring device and a density measuring device. The capacitance measuring device may be calibrated according to linear data regarding the refractive index of an emulsion of oil and water to provide output. The output of the capacitance device may be used to obtain a refractive index of the emulsion. The density measuring device may be used to measure the density of the emulsion from which the actual density of oil may be obtained. The density oil may then be applied to a linear curve to find the value of the refractive index of the oil and from this measurement the water content of the emulsion may be obtained.

Abstract: An alkylation process that employs a refractive index analyzer to monitor, control, and/or determine acid catalyst strength before, during, or after the alkylation reaction. In a preferred embodiment, the invention relates to the alkylation of an olefinic feedstock with a sulfuric acid catalyst. The acid typically enters the alkylation reactor train at between from about 92 to about 98 weight percent strength. The concentration of acid is controlled and maintained by monitoring the refractive index of the acid in the product mixture comprising alkylate, mineral acid, water, and red oil. At least one online analyzer using a refractometer prism sensor producing real-time measurements of the refractive index of the solution may be compared to the results of manual laboratory tests on the acid strength of the catalyst using manual sample analyses or titration methods. Periodically, after calibration of the system, samples may be taken to verify the precision of the online analyzer, if desired.

Abstract: A visual indicating paste composition for detecting of aqueous solutions in hydrocarbons by changes in color. The paste is utilized by placing on a probe and inserting the probe in a storage device for fuel. Said paste comprising: a) a liquid carrier selected from high molecular weight polyols; b) a caustic powder selected from alkaline earth oxides; c) a gelling agent; d) a surfactant consisting of ethoxylated nonylphenol with 9 moles of ethylene oxide; e) a filler material. f) a water scavenger consisting of aluminum isopropoxide; g) an indicator dye; and h) a neutral dye; wherein the paste of the present invention will change color upon contact with an aqueous solution in the pH range of about between 7 and 11.

Abstract: In an HF alkylation process where an acid catalyst regeneration column separates HF acid from ASO and water to provide regenerated catalyst for a catalyst circulation stream, and where buildup of ASO in the catalyst circulation stream is encountered, an improved control scheme uses an on-line analyzer/controller to maintain desired concentrations of HF acid, or ASO or water in the catalyst circulation stream. In one embodoment, a continuously flowing catalyst slip stream is piped to the analyzer/controller for simultaneously determining concentration of HF acid, ASO and water, and in a preferred embodiment the ASO concentration is maintained at a desired low level by manipulating temperature of a stripping fluid charged to a lower section of the column. An alternate manipulated variable is temperature of the acid catalyst feed to the regenerator column. Alternate controlled variables are the HF acid, and water concentration in the catalyst circulation stream.

Abstract: The wetting-agent solution proposed contains of water and at least one organic solvent miscible with water. The speed of sound in the solution is measured and, from the value obtained, a control signal is generated to keep the composition of the solution constant.

Abstract: The presence of hydrocarbons in water is detected by contacting a water sample with an adsorbent material to extract hydrocarbons from the water sample and then contacting the adsorbent material with a solvent for the hydrocarbons. A developer such as a miscible nonsolvent liquid is mixed into the solvent to produce a test mixture. The turbidity of the test mixture is observed to determine the presence of hydrocarbons in the water sample. The nonsolvent may contain at least 0.5% salt, e.g., at least 1%, preferably 5% salt, and an emulsifier. Turbidity may be measured quantitatively by measuring light scattered at 90.degree. to a test light beam or by visual comparison to a reference scale.

Abstract: A computer implemented method for on-line determination of concentrations in an HF alkylation process catalyst stream containing HF acid, ASO, water and optionally an additive which suppresses the vapor pressure of HF acid. The method employs near-infrared spectroscopy coupled with chemometric data analysis. The data analysis uses a partial least squares regression technique which determines unknown concentrations based on spectral calibration data. In use, an absorbance spectrum of material is obtained, e.g., from a slipstream taken from the process alkylation catalyst stream, and the detected spectrum is mathematically analyzed with the aid of the computer to simultaneously predict concentration of HF acid, ASO, water and optionally the additive which suppresses the vapor pressure of HF acid.

Abstract: The presence of hydrocarbons in soil is detected by immersing a soil sample in a water-miscible solvent capable of dissolving the hydrocarbons to extract hydrocarbons from the soil into the solvent. An aqueous developer is mixed into the solvent to produce a test mixture. The turbidity of the test mixture is observed to determine the presence of hydrocarbons in the soil. The aqueous developer may contain at least 0.5% salt, e.g., at least 1%, preferably 5% salt, and an emulsifier. Turbidity may be measured quantitatively by measuring light scattered at 90.degree. to a test light beam or by visual comparison to a reference scale.

Abstract: The presence of hydrocarbons in soil is detected by immersing a soil sample in a water-miscible solvent capable of dissolving the hydrocarbons to extract hydrocarbons from the soil into the solvent. An aqueous developer is mixed into the solvent to produce a test mixture. The turbidity of the test mixture is observed to determine the presence of hydrocarbons in the soil. The aqueous developer may contain at least 0.5% salt, e.g., at least 1%, preferably 5% salt, and an emulsifier. Turbidity may be measured quantitatively by measuring light scattered at 90.degree. to a test light beam or by visual comparison to a reference scale.

Abstract: A method for the quantitative determination of oil in a soil matrix is provided, in which the method involves: extracting a soil sample with a solvent in the presence of a drying agent to provide an extract containing oil, if present in the soil sample, wherein the solvent is capable of complete solvation of oil and is completely miscible with water; filtering the extract; combining the filtered extract with water in the presence of an emulsifier to form an assay sample; and determining the amount of oil in the soil sample by measuring the turbidity of the assay sample to provide a turbidimetric response for the assay sample which correlates to concentration of oil present in the assay sample and comparing the turbidimetric response to a standard curve prepared from performing the methods on soil samples of known oil content. A kit for performing the method is also provided.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for differentiating white blood cells. The method uses at least one surfactant and at least one dilute acid which together selectively strip the cytoplasm from certain classes of white blood cells and not others. More particularly, the method causes lysis of lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils and neutrophils, but not basophils. Thus, basophils are differentiated from other PMN sub-classes by their appearance as intact cells. The method totally avoids the need for dye preparation and the vagaries of staining techniques and can be used either manually or with instrumentation.

Abstract: A device is provided comprising a piezoelectric material and at least one non-crystalline non-crystalline metal oxide, crystalline-non-zeolite metal oxide and mixtures thereof coating chemically reactive with trace quantities of water in chemically reactive and inert gases. The piezoelectric material is bonded to a conductor for delivering an alternating electric current and to a conductor for transmitting resonant vibration frequency of the crystal. The reactive metal oxide coating has an effective thickness which provides a serviceable life for the coating while not being so thick as to prevent vibration of the piezoelectric material.

Abstract: A method is described to evaluate the R.sub.wb parameter, which can be applied to the Dual Water log interpretation model by measuring the resistivity of initial brines and of filtrates from muds prepared with shales. The method allows a more precise evaluation of the R.sub.wb parameter and eventually the reservoir porosity as well as the hydrocarbon storage capacity of a given reservoir.

Abstract: A method for detecting low level of alkylbenzene or mineral oil impurity in polyol ester lubricants for compressors. This method comprises mixing a mixture of alcohol and water with a sample of the lubricant and then observe the presence or absence of turbidity.

Abstract: A moisture monitor for determining the amount of moisture in liquids which may include direct installation into a non-conductive liquid flow line or, a detection chamber having a continuous flow of contaminated non-conductive liquid therethrough, and a probe inserted in the detection chamber including means for determining both actual water vapor pressure and saturation vapor pressure of water at the temperature of the liquid. An analyzer monitor remote from the probe is connected thereto by cable for converting the information received by the probe into an analysis of the moisture content of the liquid. Analyzer may be a separate control box or incorporated into remote equipment panel.

Abstract: An environmentally compatible method for field testing gasoline, and other liquid hydrocarbons, for the presence of water and/or alcohol in the presence or absence of the other utilizing colorimetric reagents comprising methylene blue dye, anhydrous sodium borate and gentian violet dye in suspension with mineral oil. When alcohol is present a volumetric test using dilute nitric acid is further described to measure its percentage in the fuel.

Abstract: A water detection plug for use in a marine engine or the like having lubricants such as oil contained therein including an arrangement for indicating the presence of water in the lubricant when the water is in contact with the plug such that the indicator arrangement presents a first distinct visual appearance when not in contact with water and a second distinct visual appearance different from the first visual appearance when the plug is in contact with water, thereby generating a visual signal which is visible to an observer located outside the device when the lubricant in contact with the plug becomes mixed with water.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for determining the thickness of a layer of a first liquid above an interface formed by the first liquid and the second liquid underlying the first liquid in a subterranean formation. The apparatus includes an elongated metal rod having a sharpened distal end. An electrode is provided adjacent the sharpened distal end to indicate when the interface formed by the two liquids has been reached. A lengthwise running elongated slot is provided in the outer surface of the body of the metal rod and contains an indicator strip. The indicator strip is adapted to undergo a color change upon contact with the first liquid. By measuring the length of the indicator strip which has undergone a color change, the thickness of the layer of the first liquid can be determined.

Abstract: A sensitive method for the determination of water in the presence of common interferences is presented. The detection system is based on the effect of water on the equilibrium which results from the reaction aryl aldehydes, such as cinnamaldehyde and methanol in the eluent to form cinnamaldehyde dimethylacetal, plus water. This equilibrium is shifted in a catalytic atmosphere of a hydrogen ion form past column reactor. The extent of the shift and the resulting change in absorbance are proportional to the amount of water present.

Abstract: A method for determining the presence of water in an organic test fluid including the steps of admixing a portion of the organic test fluid with a liquid indicator system containing a non-polar solvent which is soluble in the organic test fluid, and comprises a petroleum distillate. The solvent also includes a non-hazardous water soluble dye which will evidence a color change upon direct contact with water. The mixture is agitated to permit intimate contact between the indicator system and the organic test fluid. The mixture is then allowed to stand for a period in which the dye will react with any water contained in the organic test fluid, and provide a color indication thereof.

Abstract: A visual indicating paste composition for producing a detectable color change upon contact with an aqueous solution comprising an indicator dye capable of changing color in the pH range between about 7 and about 11, an inorganic base in the form of a caustic powder dispersed in a liquid carrier capable of absorbing water which is not rapidly leached by water or hydrocarbon, and a minor amount of a boron-containing compound, is provided. When applied to a measuring probe, the paste composition is particularly adapted for detecting the water level in the bottom of tanks and delivery systems containing gasoline, and especially gasoline containing oxygenated blending components, by producing a clear detectable color change without bleeding or run-off upon contact with an aqueous solution. The paste composition exhibits long shelf life and improved water tolerance.

Abstract: A visual indicating paste composition for producing a detectable color change upon contact with an aqueous solution comprising an indicator dye capable of changing color in the pH range between about 7 and about 11, said base being dispersed in a liquid carrier capable of absorbing water but which is not rapidly leached by water or hydrocarbon, is provided. When applied to a measuring probe, the paste composition is particularly adapted for detecting the water level in the bottom of tanks and delivery systems containing gasoline, and especially gasoline containing oxygenated blending components, by producing a clear detectable color change without bleeding or run-off upon contact with an aqueous solution.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process for determining the composition of binary liquid mixtures. This process is characterized in that a solvatochromic compound is added to the sample to be analyzed, the solvatochromism band .lambda..sub.max is determined in the UV-spectrum, the E.sub.T -value (molar stimulation energy) of the solvatochromic substance is calculated and the concentration of the more polar component is determined in accordance with the following equationc.sub.P =c*exp(E.sub.T /E.sub.D -E.sub.T .degree./E.sub.D)-c* (1)in whichc.sub.P represents the concentration of the more polar component, the component having the greater E.sub.T 30-value being defined as the more polar component,E.sub.T represents the molar excitation energy of the solvatochromic compound,E.sub.T .degree. represents the E.sub.T -value of the pure, more apolar component,E.sub.T 30 is the E.sub.T -value using pyridinium phenol betaine andc* and E.sub.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process for determining water in samples containing water. This process is characterized in that a solvatochromic compound is added to a solution or dispersion of the sample in a solvent or directly to the liquid sample, the solvatochromism band .lambda..sub.max in the UV-vis-spectrum is determined, the E.sub.T -value (molar excitation energy) of the solvatochromic compound is calculated and the water concentration is determined in accordance with the following equation:c.sub.H.sbsb.2.sub.O =C*exp(E.sub.T /E.sub.D -E.sub.T.sup.o /E.sub.D)-c* (1)in whichE.sub.T is the molar excitation energy of the solvatochromic compound,E.sub.T.sup.o is the E.sub.T -value of the pure anhydrous solvent,c* and E.sub.D are empirical parameters which may be taken from Tables or empirically determined.

Abstract: A visual indicating paste composition for producing a detectable color change upon contact with an aqueous solution comprising an indicator dye capable of changing color in the pH range between about 7 and about 11, an inorganic base in the form of a caustic powder dispersed in a liquid carrier capable of absorbing water which is not rapidly leached by water or hydrocarbon, and a minor amount of a boron-containing compound, is provided. When applied to a measuring probe, the paste composition is particularly adapted for detecting the water level in the bottom of tanks and delivery systems containing gasoline, and especially gasoline containing oxygenated blending components, by producing a clear detectable color change without bleeding or run-off upon contact with an aqueous solution. The paste composition exhibits long shelf life and improved water tolerance.

Abstract: A semi-quantitative method for determining the amount of water in contaminated oil samples wherein a small sample of contaminated oil is placed in one or more compartments of a container. An equal size sample of reference oil of the same composition as the test oil, but containing a known quantity of water, is placed in one or more compartments of said container. The container is then heated rapidly and bubbles formed in the contaminated oil are compared with bubbles formed in the reference oil, thereby bracketing the water content rapidly (less than 5 minutes) with reasonable accuracy.

Abstract: A device is provided comprising a piezoelectric material and at least one non-crystalline .[.non-crystalline.]. metal oxide.[.,.]..Iadd.; .Iaddend.crystalline.[.-.]..Iadd.,.Iaddend.non-zeolite metal oxide and mixtures thereof coating chemically reactive with trace quantities of water in chemically reactive and inert gases. The piezoelectric material is bonded to a conductor for delivering an alternating electric current and to a conductor for transmitting resonant vibration frequency of the crystal. The reactive metal oxide coating has an effective thickness which provides a serviceable life for the coating while not being so thick as to prevent vibration of the piezoelectric material.