Abstract: Methane gas produced according to an anaerobic digestion of organic wastes is introduced into digested separated water which is alkalized by a photo-culture of algae, whereby impurity carbon dioxide gas is removed by absorption. Accordingly, methane of high concentration is recovered and at the same time, by-product algae is recycled as feedstock, and thereby improving the yield of methane.

Abstract: The invention is an improved weir means for use in algae growing reactors in a controlled natural purification system for advanced waste water treatment and algae farming. The invention is a pneumatic device that eliminates the need for a mechanically operated lift-type rigid weir for controlling the level of liquids and increasing the algal concentration in an algae growing reactor and separation of suspended solids in the effluent therefrom. The pneumatic toroidal weir consists of a toroid or doughnut shaped means that can be inflated and deflated. The device rests in and is affixed to a circular ring-like base. The interior periphery of the toroid or doughnut configuration is convoluted to improve controlled inflation and deflation; to reduce interior overhang, and to increase toroidal height without increasing volume.

Abstract: Purification of liquid agricultural wastes, such as, in particular, liquid anure, by means of an algae/bacteria mixture culture and a subsequent rotifer culture in a separate stage. The pH-value of the algae/bacteria mixture culture is controlled, especially by the waste water charging thereof, in such a way that a multiplication of rotifers in this stage is inhibited or precluded. The algae/bacteria mixture culture preferably occurs in shallow open air ponds for a period of time which depends upon the temperature and can amount to three to six days at a mean temperature of approximately 18.degree. C. The hold time of the algae/bacteria suspension which is in the rotifer container and is adjusted to a pH of 6 to 8 can range from two to four days at a temperature of approximately 20.degree. C. A waste water treatment plant or system for the foregoing includes at least one algae/bacteria mixture culture reservoir and at least one rotifer reactor.

Abstract: Oil products and a high nitrogen content residue are obtained by growing halophilic algae in saline solution, harvesting an algae-salt water slurry, solvent extracting said slurry, and recovering the product and residue. Use of a growth promoting enzyme, salt concentration gradients for harvesting, and water insoluble solvents at elevated temperatures are preferred.

Abstract: A method of producing an algal turf for use as a scrubber of carbon dioxide, nutrients and pollutants as well as biomass production is disclosed. A growing surface for spores or benthic microalgae is provided on a water surface. The growing surface is subjected to periodic water surge action to promote metabolite cellular-ambient water exchange and light is provided, natural or artificial to promote growth. The growing turf is harvested before being overgrown by larger macroalgae.

Abstract: A low-cost, self-contained and compact sprouting device and a simple method of use of the same. The device comprises a container having a perforated top inset tray, perforated bottom whereon the seeds are washed and sprouted, and a top cover serving as a water storage receptacle when inverted and placed under the container. A disposable cover or wash-away coating seals the openings through the bottom until plant growth is desired.

Abstract: Algae yield in a body of aqueous nutrient solution is increased by means of a nutrient thin-film surface culture substrate cycling between an illumination area and a non-illuminated refractory area in a closed system while feeding on the nutrient solution and CO.sub.2. Illumination includes both light and/or electric ionic reduction.

Abstract: The present invention relates to systems, processes and apparatus for harvesting microorganisms, especially free swimming unicellular algae, such as algal cells of the Dunaliella variety.In accordance with one aspect of the invention, a material mass made up of fibrous or inert inorganic material in interposed between the liquid containing reservoir in which the algal cells are disposed for multiplication by cell division and the cell harvest zone to provide a preferred travel path for the migration of the cells from the reservoir to the harvest zone. This mass not only enhances cell travel from the reservoir to the harvest zone, but also acts as a cell collision mass to enhance cell division, thereby to decrease the time lag of cell division build-up in the early stages of generating an algal cell culture in the reservoir.

Abstract: An apparatus and process for the culture of algae in a liquid medium is disclosed. The medium circulates through an open trough and is exposed to an atmosphere which is temperature regulated. The nutrient content of the liquid medium is regulated to control the chemical composition growth and reproduction characteristics of the cultured algae. Before it is allowed to strike the medium, sunlight is passed through a filter to remove wavelengths which are not photosynthetically active. Heat energy can be recovered from the filter.

Abstract: This invention relates to a soilless culture device comprising a culture solution tank and a cultivation vessel having a flow path for the solution fed from the solution tank. Where the solution flow path, or cultivation vessel is substantially long, the flow path is arranged to turn at an intermediate point so that it is divided into two portions, forward and return, disposed in parallel relation and allowed to communicate with each other at any desired point by means of a short-circuiting path. Equalization of the culture solution between the supply side and the discharge side can be thus attained. A level regulating pipe adapted to regulate the solution level in the cultivation vessel is provided between the solution tank and the cultivation vessel. A cup for adjusting the solution level is removably mounted in the opening of the level regulating pipe.

Abstract: Seeds are sprouted within a cup-shaped container to confine and entangle them in a packable group. The seeds are uniformly spread across the bottom of the container with the aid of an upwardly directed light source. The bottom of the container is porous and a flow of air maintained through it during sprouting. The sprouts are entangled by growing in a porous hydrophobic foam or tilting the bottom of the container to several angles for the sprouts to mature. After maturing, the entangled sprouts are dumped from the container and wrapped under tension to provide a strong compact resilient package in a wrapper sheet which is folded over itself and sealed by heat sealing, twisting or crimping.

Abstract: A pad (16) of open celled fully reticulated polyurethane foam which is substantially hydrophobic serves as a bed for growing sprouts (14) from seeds (12). A high percentage of interconnected voids in the pad (16) provide a high degree of permeability to air flow and the material has surface properties, which retain adhered droplets of moisture providing humid environment without holding localized moisture which might prevent the free flow of air through the pad. The bulk of any applied water or mist is drained through or away from the pad, thus flushing impurities from it. A loose cover sheet of film (15) helps retain a humid atmosphere and pad (16) may be wrapped in such a sheet (18) to package the sprouts (14). The pad (16) may be transferred to a shipping tray (34) after the seeds are sprouted or may be originally placed in it. The pad (16) and tray (34) may have an extended lip (38) for collecting moisture when the package is inclined on end to provide optimum conditions during storage.

Abstract: A sprouting apparatus (10) is disclosed which is suitable for the merchandising of seeds to be sprouted, the actual sprouting of the seeds, and the storage of the resulting sprouts. The sprouting apparatus (10) includes an outer container (12) which receives therein an inner container (14) in which the seeds are actually sprouted. The assembly is covered by a dome member (16). Nesting structure (24, 28) is provided on the inner and outer containers (14 and 12) so that an air passage is maintained between the inner and outer containers (14 and 12) at all times.

Abstract: A plant watering system including a tray having a platform thereon in which a water absorbent mat is located. The mat extends into the tray in which water is located and water is absorbed from the tray into the mat by capillary action. The plants are located on the mat and are provided with water directly to the plant bottom and water is available to provide humidity to the leaves. A stackable arrangement is provided so that one tray can be stacked on top of another one.

Abstract: The invention is an improved controlled natural purification system for an advanced wastewater treatment and protein conversion and recovery. The system provides for treating municipal wastewater and associated organic industrial discharges anaerobically and aerobically. The system consists of such treatments in a tank complex where the waste organics are reduced to inorganic forms available for microalgae culture in tanks uniquely designed for rapid growth. The system includes a recovery mechanism to recover the algae for food purposes. Utilizing organic wastewater as the renewable resource, the system has the potential to develop from a wastewater treatment process that removes excess nutrients, producing reusable water and a commercially valuable algal by-product, to large scale algae farming cost-effectively producing millions of tons per year of sterile, stable, high protein algal foodstuff.

Abstract: A method of producing a matrix of micro-organisms for extracting and gaining uranium from sea water, according to which the matrix is made of micro-organisms occurring in nature that are exposed to x-ray irradiations. These predetermined micro-organisms accordingly form colonies or threads and are filtered easily and cultivated. These micro-organisms accordingly form colonies or threads and are filtered easily and cultivated. These micro-organisms have a ratio of surface to volume that is relatively high. Subsequently, the thus irradiated micro-organisms are placed on a nutrient medium rich in uranium and are left there until colonies are formed. Thereupon, the surviving colonies of mutants are inoculated in a nutrient solution, and are then cultivated to produce the matrix.

Abstract: A process and system for reducing the biochemical oxygen demand and suspended solids levels of impure water and creating a wild life habitat. A number of containers are arranged in series with interconnecting lines through which the water flows. The containers include openings with clusters of bark fibers projecting through the same. The fibers serve to attract and hold nutrient deposition in the form of colloidal wastes and the like and as a safe habitat for microorganisms which feed on such wastes and as a capillary system for the passage of clarified water formed in the bark fibers. The containers are disposed underground. Roots from neighboring plants are attracted to the bark clusters and grow into the containers.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the field rearing of planktonic larvae of marine animals involving suspending a field culture enclosure in oceanic tidal waters, stocking the enclosure with larvae of a preselected species of marine animal, permitting the enclosure to orient in response to the tidal flow of water, screening out larger plankton from entry into the enclosure and filtering water leaving the enclosure to impede the escape of the larvae and food plankton. The culture enclosure is suspended from floatation means and is equipped with a drop-rudder supported horizontally outwardly and spaced form the enclosure side The entry port has a plurality of deflection vanes to direct incoming water towards the enclosure periphery so that a substantially circular flow of water within the enclosure is achieved. By withdrawing water from the enclosure bottom a down-welling combines with the circular flow to cause food plankton and larvae to accumulate near the center and top of the enclosure.

Abstract: An apparatus and process for the culture of algae in a liquid medium is disclosed. The medium circulates through an open trough and is exposed to an atmosphere which is temperature regulated. The nutrient content of the liquid medium is regulated to control the chemical composition growth and reproduction characteristics of the cultured algae. Before it is allowed to strike the medium, sunlight is passed through a filter to remove wavelengths which are not photosynthetically active. Heat energy can be recovered from the filter.

Abstract: A tank for use in the culturing of marine and aquatic organisms that undergo larval settlement upon submerged surfaces and metamorphose thereon to become benthic motile animals that crawl upon said surfaces and graze food found thereon, such as abalone (phylum Mollusca, class Gastropoda, family Haliotidae), other gastropod molluscs including, but not limited to conch (class Gastropoda, genera Strombus, Cassis, Charonia, and others), Chilean "loco" (Choncholepas, choncholepas), sea urchins (phylum Echinodermata, class Echinoidea, order Cidaroidea), and other marine and aquatic motile benthic organisms of economic and scientific importance. The tank is provided with means for circulation of seawater through the tank and means are provided in the tank forming solid surfaces on which the larvae of abalone or other motile benthic organisms settle, feed and rest.

Abstract: A container for sprouting seeds hydroponically without water build-up causing root rot. The container includes a bottom portion joined to side walls, a bendable seed-holding tray and a conventional cover. The bottom portion has ribs for supporting the tray for limited free angulation to different nonhorizontal positions, and the side walls have channels to allow water run-off.

Abstract: Electrochemical process and apparatus to control the chemical state of a material, that is, to cause said material to retain desired characteristics in an environment that normally would cause a change in those characteristics or to cause a material that has deteriorated from a desired chemical state to revert to the desired state.

Abstract: A new hydroponically oriented apparatus for the sprouting of legume plants such as alfalfa, green beans, wheat and the like is disclosed. A unique process for sprouting of the legumes from seed, which includes the step of mineralizing the sprouts is also disclosed.

Abstract: Process and apparatus for the production of algae biopolymer employing a first stage for the growth of algae and a second stage for biopolymer production. In the first stage, growth of algae biomass in a culture medium is accomplished by operating the first stage in a continuous mode in which fresh nitrogen-containing nutrient medium is supplied to the culture. Concomitantly with the supply of fresh nutrient medium to the culture in the first stage, a portion of the culture medium is transferred from the first stage to the second stage in which the supply of nitrogen is limited. A nitrogen deficiency is created in the second stage to shift the culture to a senescent phase to enhance biopolymer production. The growth phase is carried out in a first stage reaction chamber which is connected to a plurality of second stage reaction chambers in parallel with one another.

Abstract: A method for cultivating an alga, which comprises growing the alga in a light field substantially free from light of wavelengths of not more than 340 nm; and a covering material for use in the cultivation of algae, said covering material substantially inhibiting the transmission of light of wavelengths of not more than 340 nm.

Abstract: A building construction formed as a dome has a transparent outer shell and an inner shell of flat cassettes which are turnable for regulating incident light radiation and light escaping from the dome. Air is circulated through a heat accumulator, arranged beneath the dome, and a collecting space in the peak of the dome through the cassettes, which have a shiny and a black side surface for maximum reflection or absorption of sunlight. The adjustment of the cassettes for greatest efficiency is automatically controlled. The dome has double or multiple transparent walls between which biomass is cultivated, e.g. green microorganisms in an outer and red microorganisms in an inner layer for maximum energy utilization. Light-absorbing salt solutions can be circulated through a layer, or parts thereof, when screening-off is desired to steer light radiation for optimum biological production.

Abstract: A flow rectifying device is provided in a cultivation basin used in the cultivation of algae of the type in which there is a horizontal circulating flow of the cultivation water. The flow rectifying device avoids the formation of puddles or stagnant water and provides for uniform flow of the circulating water as the direction of flow changes at corners of the basin. The flow rectifying means includes a plurality of curved parallel fins for smoothly deflecting the flow of the circulating cultivation water and thereby prevents contamination of the cultivation liquid by preventing algae from being destroyed. The apparatus is particularly useful in cultivating blue-green algae of the genus Spirulina and other aquatic lower algae.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to the propagation and cultivation of freshwater and marine plants. These freshwater or marine plants are found naturally in underwater, floating or air-water interface habitats where sufficient illumination, nutrients and moisture are available to sustain life. A process is disclosed in which freshwater and marine macrophytes are cultivated in a water charged atmosphere, rather than in their native freshwater or marine environments, under precise control of such critical growing conditions as light, temperature, nutrient supply and disease control. Carbon dioxide, a plant nutrient is introduced into the atmosphere or into the water while other nutrients are provided through the use of controlled mists or sprays arranged to maintain a film of nutrient containing freshwater or seawater on the growing plants. Natural waters may be periodically enriched with organic or inorganic nutrients.

Abstract: Steps are disclosed in a method for the complete treatment of sanitary sewage comprising water containing suspended or dissolved organic matter, the concentration of which is measured by biochemical oxygen demand (BOD). A part of the method relies upon a waste stabilization pond containing algae for aerobic decomposition of the organic matter, followed by removal of algae in a second algae removal pond. Another aspect of the invention is provision of a polishing pond constructed with a circumferential weir for maximizing exposure to sunlight and for aeration. A further aspect of the method of the invention involves optional provision of a facultative pond of increased capacity for reduction of BOD by use of combined aerobic and anaerobic treatment which avoids the drawbacks commonly associated with entirely anaerobic treatment processes.

Abstract: According to the invention there is provided a process for the simultaneous production of glycerol, carotenes(.beta.-carotene, its isomers and carotene-like substances) and protein rich material which comprises cultivating algae of the Dunaliella bardawil species under high-intensity illumination in a growth medium containing a high concentration of sodium chloride (at least 1,5 M in the final stage of the cultivation), providing an adequate supply of carbon, in a depth of not exceeding 20 cm of the aqueous medium, in a diurnal cycle of illumination, until algae of high content of the above three components are obtained, harvesting the algae and recovering from same the three constituents.

Abstract: Process for growing sprouts from seeds comprises circulating the water in which the seeds are germinated continuously for 8 hours so that the seeds are continually germinating in fresh water. The germinated sprouts are then repeatedly allowed to drain and stand for approximately 4-8 hours and then soaked for approximately 15 minutes. For the first 48 hours the sprouts are lightly worked during the soakings by being separated by the user's fingers. Between 48 and 72 hours the sprouts are heavily worked and are submerged during the soaking cycle, and the floating husks are removed from the container in which the sprouts are soaked by skimming the container while the sprouts are submerged. Between 72 and 144 hours, in addition to the skimming, after each soaking the sprouts are removed from the container and the container cleaned. Also after 72 hours and 96 hours the sprouts in each container are split in approximately equal portions and each of the portions are placed in separate containers.

Abstract: A bean sprouter for convenient sprouting of beans, seeds, and the like for food preparation, the sprouter is constructed with a cannister having a water collection area in the bottom; a perforated container for beans to be sprouted that is supportable in the cannister above the water collector area, the container including a disposable filter paper casing for the beans; a top with a water inlet dish perforated to distribute water poured into the inlet dish over the bean container; a ventilation system; and an indicator device with a support base that rests on the beans in the bean container, and a vertical flag which is projectable through the top and is elevated as the beans in the container expand.

Abstract: A toy which can be used to instruct people and preferably children, on how to grow seeds and care for the same after they germinate as well as a device which can be used as a novelty item, such as a greeting card whose image will change upon the germination of the seed associated therewith.

Abstract: In a composite horticultural system, a lower worm culture container contains a worm culture medium for growing worms and converting manure to worm casting type top soil. The top soil is used in a plant growing container mounted above the worm culture container. The environment over the plant growing medium is controlled by an environmental control means comprising a frame with replaceable panels. One set of panels comprises a sheet of translucent material for permitting sun light to pass therethrough and for retaining the heat within the plant growing container, whereas a second set of replacement panels comprises a slat arrangement for shading the plants and for passage therethrough of air for controlling the temperature within the plant growing container.

Abstract: Method for continuous production of H.sub.2 via the biophotolysis of water in a two step process using a reversibly reduceable cofactor and synergistic photometabolically active microorganisms. The rate of H.sub.2 production can be increased utilizing transition metal ions as catalysts.

Abstract: A self watering apparatus for home growing bean sprouts includes a housing divided into an upper compartment and a lower compartment by a horizontally positioned divider plate provided with orifices. An open top sprout container tray is placed within the lower compartment of the housing, the bottom of the sprout containing tray is provided with a drainage opening. A tilting water container is pivotally mounted in the upper compartment of the housing, the tilting water container has an established capacity and collects water from a water supply line at a controlled rate. Each time the volume of water collected in the tilting water container reaches the established capacity, the tilting water container discharges the collected water on the divider plate and drains through the orifices into the open top sprout container tray.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for growing seafood in commercially significant quantities on land, comprising a means for and the steps of transporting water from a source of water to a plurality of algal reservoirs, each having a volume equal to or exceeding 21/2 feet .times. 1/8 acre; inoculating the reservoirs with phytoplankton from a source of phytoplankton having a minimum density of 10.sup.1 to 10.sup.3 organisms/liter; adding fertilizer to the water in the reservoir daily for providing a mixture and subjecting the mixture to sunlight for increasing the density of the phytoplankton in the water to a density exceeding 10.sup.

Abstract: A transparent seedling container has disposed therein a dry mass of material which is capable of absorbing water and a sproutable seed. Water is added to the mass and the germination of the seed is visible through the container walls. Means are provided for the suspension of the container which may be worn as an article of jewelry.

Abstract: A process for the production of glycerol and proteinous substances of nutritive value which comprises cultivating algae of the Dunaliella species in a nutrient medium containing the mineral requirements of growth of the algae, said nutrient medium having a sodium chloride content of at least 1.5 M, the cultivation being effected while an adequate supply of carbon dioxide is provided and continued until a maximum concentration of algae is obtained, and continuing the cultivation of the algae in a nutrient medium having a content of sodium chloride of at least 3 M, cultivating the algae in this second nutrient medium until a high glycerol content is established, harvesting the algae, recovering from same the glycerol, and recovering the residue having a high protein content.

Abstract: A sprouter having a wall or walls defining the lateral extent of a growing chamber, and a base connected to the wall or walls for forming a bottom of the chamber. The base includes proturbances that form indentations on the base for retaining a quantity of water which supplies sprouts growing in the growing chamber with water for a predetermined length of time. The proturbances also prevent seeds in the growing chamber from sliding when the base is tilted slightly during movement.

Abstract: This specification discloses a process for the production of alga biopolymer and alga biomass. The first step of the process is carried out in a seed reactor. In this step, an aqueous culture containing an inoculum of alga and nutrients required for the growth of the alga is subjected to artificial illumination of an intensity and for such a time as to initiate growth of the alga. The aqueous culture is also subjected to the action of a mixture of carbon dioxide and air during this first step. After growth of the alga is initiated, at least a portion of the alga biomass is transferred to a main reactor where the second step of the process is carried out. In this step, the alga biomass in an aqueous culture is subjected to artificial illumination of an intensity and duration to effect growth of alga biomass and, concomitantly, synthesis of alga biopolymer. It is also subjected to the action of a mixture of carbon dioxide and air.

Abstract: Apparatus for sprouting plant seeds and growing the sprouts to a desired size is disclosed comprising a container having an open top and perforated bottom and side wall, a flexible screen means adapted to upwardly extend the horizontal restraint of the sidewall on the sprouts and, optionally, a heat reflective gas and moisture impermeable means adapted to surround and cover the top and side wall of the container. An improved method of growing plant sprouts is disclosed which comprises growing the sprouted plants in the above described container with the flexible screen means arranged to exert a constant pressure radially inward against the growing sprouts. In a preferred embodiment the open top of the container is covered by the flexible screen means and the screen-covered container is covered with the heat reflective means.

Abstract: An ecological system and method for counteracting the effects of excessive nutrient deposition (eutrophication) in bodies of water such as marshlands, inland ponds and lakes. The system makes use of clusters of substantially individualized bark fibers positioned in upper, relatively oxygen-rich zones of such bodies of water. The bark clusters function to attract and hold excessive nutrient deposition in the form of colloidal wastes (e.g., colloidal solids of various types, single cell bacteria, etc.) and aquatic algae produced thereby, while at the same time providing a safe habitat for algae predators and feeders in the form of minute animal organisms (e.g., crustacea, rotifers, snails, zooplankton, etc).

Abstract: A method is provided for optimally supplying autotrophic organisms with CO.sub.2 nutrient, the requirement for the nutrient fluctuating in dependence on growth and thus on the incident light, temperature and the density of the organisms. The pH in a culture channel containing the organisms is continuously measured and the introduction of CO.sub.2 into the culture channel is regulated in response to the measured pH. An arrangement is provided for practicing the method and comprises a channel in which a suspension of the organisms can be moved in one direction, at least one discharge means in the channel for introducing the CO.sub.2 gas into suspension, at least one control member connected to the discharge means for controlling the operation of the discharge means, at least one pH measuring means in the channel for immersion into the suspension, and a circuit connecting the pH measuring means and the control member to actuate the control member for introducing the CO.sub.

Abstract: This specification discloses a process for the production of petroleum from a petroleum-containing subterranean reservoir employing an aqueous driving fluid containing, as a thickening agent, a biopolymer. The biopolymer is an extracellular heteropolysaccharide synthesized by an alga. A particular bipolymer is one synthesized by the alga Porphyridium aerugineum. The biopolymer may be employed in the aqueous driving fluid as an in-vivo solution or in a reconstituted form. There is also disclosed a process for the growth of, and synthesis of, biopolymer by an alga such as Porphyridium aerugineum.

Abstract: This specification discloses a process and a culture composition for growth of an alga and synthesis of biopolymer by the alga. The process involves growth of the alga and concomitant synthesis of the biopolymer in an aqueous culture containing as a source of phosphate for said alga dibasic sodium or dibasic potassium phosphate. The nitrogen source can be sodium nitrate or urea. Control of the pH of the culture is effected by injecting a mixture of carbon dioxide and air into the culture during growth of the alga and synthesis of the biopolymer. The carbon dioxide also serves as a source of carbon for growth of the alga and synthesis of the biopolymer and provides agitation/mixing within the culture chamber. Preferably, the mixture of carbon dioxide and air is injected continuously into the culture during the entire growth period of the alga.

Abstract: This specification discloses a method and apparatus for the synthesis of alga biopolymer. The method is comprised of two stages and involves subjecting an aqueous culture containing alga cells and nutrients required for the growth of the alga cells to a first stage of artificial illumination for a period of time such that growth of the alga and synthesis of biopolymer begins followed by a second stage of natural illumination provided by successive cycles of diurnal solar radiation and darkness. During the cycles of diurnal solar radiation and darkness in the second stage, the aqueous culture is continuously contacted with a mixture of carbon dioxide and air. Furthermore, during these cycles of diurnal solar radiation and darkness, the temperature of the aqueous culture is maintained at a level conducive to the growth of the alga cells. The apparatus is employed in the second stage and contains a lower chamber adapted to contain an aqueous thickening culture from a stage-one reactor.

Abstract: A process is described for the selective destruction of Phaeodactylum cells in the presence of Thallasiosira cells by subjecting algae culture liquid containing these species to ultrasonic waves.

Abstract: Apparatus and method are described for using ultrasonic waves for removing microscopic particles from a liquid medium, such as algae from a solar or refuse pond, or blood cells from blood. The described apparatus includes an ultrasonic generator propagating ultrasonic waves of over one megacycle per second through the liquid medium to cause the flocculation of the microscopic particles at spaced points. In two described embodiments, the ultrasonic waves are propagated in the horizontal direction through the liquid medium, and baffle plates are disposed below the level of propagation of the ultrasonic waves. The baffles are oriented to provide a high resistance to the horizontal propagation therethrough of the ultrasonic waves and a low-resistance to the vertical settling therethrough of the flocculated particles.

Abstract: A seed starter apparatus includes:A. a container having a lower portion and a water outlet from said lower portion, andB. a resiliently or flexibly self-supporting and water retaining mass of permeable and porous material defining interstices, the material located in the container to support a seed above said outlet, whereby water received in the container will wet said material before slowly draining through said outlet and some of the water will be retained in the interstices of said material to continuously wet the supported surface of the seed and roots will penetrate said interstices to be wetted by water retained in said interstices and to be supported by said material.