With Sensing, Detecting, Or Monitoring Patents (Class 588/260)
  • Patent number: 9974806
    Abstract: The present invention relates to the a bismuth-based composition, particularly involving the use of bismuth ions, particularly the Bi+3 ion, for prevention and/or treatment of the haemolytic uremic syndrome, with the invention also relating to the use of a bismuth ion in the manufacture of a medicament for the prevention and/or treatment of an infection caused by a Shiga-toxin producing Escherichia coli strain, as well as to a method for preventing and/or treating the haemolytic uremic syndrome comprising administering bismuth ions to a patient in need thereof, and a method for inhibiting dissemination of the gene encoding virulence factors of a Shiga-toxin producing Escherichia coli strain in animals and humans.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2018
    Inventor: Hector Manuel Fernandez
  • Patent number: 9016496
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a subsurface refuse collection system comprising an underground bunker (4), a refuse container (3), a deposit bin (1) and a cover (2) with automatic opening and closing which can be powered electrically using a solar system. The container (3) is collected by means of an automated crane (18) with automatic hitching to facilitate collection. The system is equipped with multiple devices to measure volume and weight of the refuse deposited in the deposit bin (1), for the purpose of system monitoring or improvements to the management of truck routes. It also includes a safety device to prevent accidental fails into the underground bunker during collection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: MBE Sotkon SL,-Contenedores Subterraneos Para R.S.U.
    Inventors: Nuno Filipe Cardoso Cabral Martins Da Silva, Fernando Manuel Martins Fernandes, Gerard Georges Raphael Amanrich
  • Patent number: 8747762
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for treating an exhaust gas in a foreline of a substrate processing system are provided herein. In some embodiments, an apparatus for treating an exhaust gas in a foreline of a substrate processing system includes a plasma source coupled to a foreline of a process chamber, a reagent source coupled to the foreline upstream of the plasma source, and a foreline gas injection kit coupled to the foreline to controllably deliver a gas to the foreline, wherein the foreline injection kit includes a pressure regulator to set a foreline gas delivery pressure setpoint, and a first pressure gauge coupled to monitor a delivery pressure of the gas upstream of the foreline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Applied Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Colin John Dickinson, Mehran Moalem, Daniel O. Clark
  • Patent number: 8577488
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of optimizing self-supporting film production. The method includes the steps of: determining at least one scrap factor which relates to a total amount of scrap in processing a film product; correlating the at least one scrap factor to at least one processing parameter; and adjusting the at least one processing parameter to reduce the total amount of scrap in processing the film product. The present invention also relates to a system for optimizing film production.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: MonoSol Rx, LLC
    Inventor: Beuford A. Bogue
  • Patent number: 8546514
    Abstract: Disclosed is a continuous process for manufacturing aliphatic polycarbonate by polymerizing carbon dioxide and one or more epoxide compound in the presence of catalyst, in which carbon dioxide, one or more epoxide compound, and the catalyst are continuously supplied to polymerization reactor to produce aliphatic polycarbonate, separate unreacted carbon dioxide and epoxide compound and recycle them as raw materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: SK Innovation Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Byoungmu Chang, Gwangbin Moon, Myungahn Ok, Jisu Jeong, Jieun Yoo, Sun Choi, Hongdae Kim, Sujith Sudevan, Daeho Shin, Jaeho Lee, Seongjun Lee, Gyungrok Kim, Mingyoo Park, Jangjae Lee
  • Publication number: 20130046126
    Abstract: A submerged hydrocarbon recovery apparatus fro the collection and conveyance of fluids from sub surface leaks to the water body surface. The apparatus comprises a hydrocarbon fluid collector having an opening for receiving and collecting fluids emanating from an underwater hydrocarbon leak; a floatation assembly located below the water surface at a depth not affected by surface disturbances; and a conduit extending between the fluid collector and floatation assembly. The apparatus includes components to prevent the formation of hydrates or accumulation of solids that would obstruct the conveyance of fluids.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2011
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Applicant: OXUS RECOVERY SOLUTIONS INC.
    Inventors: Brian Wilson Varney, Thomas Joseph Kuelker
  • Patent number: 8371996
    Abstract: Material spill remediation packages (16, 40) designed to counteract particular, different types of material releases or spills are provided having spill control assemblies (18, 41) within vacuumized casings (20) and including respective color-coordinated displays (22, 42) and detachable labels (26, 46) for particular spill or release materials. In use, possible locations of material spills are identified and the appropriate labels (26, 46) are applied at or near these locations, prior to the occurrence of any spill. In the event of a spill, the appropriate spill control assembly (18, 41) can be readily identified by matching the color of the label (26, 46) and the color-coded display (22, 42) associated with the appropriate package (16, 40). This allows rapid, error-free response to both hazardous and non-hazardous material releases or spills, even by relatively unskilled personnel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: Andax Industries LLC
    Inventor: Patrick F. McAtarian
  • Patent number: 8355994
    Abstract: A system for sorting composite waste is provided. In some embodiments, the composite waste comprises two or more drugs, or two or more components. Composite waste is sorted efficiently and effectively using information regarding the different components in said waste, thus enabling proper disposal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Assignee: Vesta Medical LLC
    Inventors: Scott R. Mallett, Randall C. Danta, Peter Regla, Alan D. Corey, Alan A. Davidner
  • Patent number: 8295916
    Abstract: The strontium-rubidium infusion system has a container with eluent, a strontium-rubidium generator with a filter and pressure sensor, an eluate infusion unit, which are connected via a transporting system having pipes and two three-way valves, radioactivity measuring means and a control and operating unit. An eluent container is connected to a syringe pump via the first and second ports of the first three-way valve, the first port of the second three-way valve is connected with pipes via the second filter to the eluate infusion unit, the second port is connected to a waste receptacle. The third and fourth three-way valves, the first and second air bubbles detectors are connected to the control and operating unit connected with a computer. The third three-way valve is connected with its first and second ports via pipes to the third port of the first three-way valve and the input of the generator, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: OOO ′Nauchno Proizvodstvennaya Firma “Pozitom-Pro”
    Inventors: Gennady Grigoryevich Shimchuk, Gennady Arkadyevich Pakhomov, Grigory Gennadyevich Shimchuk, Aleksei Borisovich Utenkov, Valery Timofeevich Galochkin, Aleksandr Vladislavovich Ogurtsov, Valery Ivanovich Kostuchenko
  • Patent number: 8252148
    Abstract: A mobile waste processing system and method is disclosed for processing materials in a tank, typically an underground storage tank. A mobile fluid processing module is disposed adjacent to or over the tank, and sealingly connected to the tank through a tank riser. Support equipment, which may include an electric power module, a chiller module, a heating module, and a control and monitor module, are disposed a distance from the processing module, and connected thereto. A pump and optionally a dispersal nozzle are deployed from the processing module into the tank, and effluent is extracted for processing. The processing trailer includes effluent processing equipment such as an evaporator and demister, condenser, vacuum pump, and interim storage tank. The effluent is processed, and at least a portion is removed. Some of the processed effluent may be returned to the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: Columbia Energy & Environmental Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen Wolfe, Brian Brendel
  • Patent number: 8206985
    Abstract: A method of determining the effect of a spill on a marine environment, in which physical and chemical sensors are arranged with living organisms (4, 6) fitted with instruments, at an appropriate distance and position from the object (1) which is to be monitored, wherein the response of the living organism (4, 6), measured online in real time, is compared with known patterns of response, and where upstream and downstream measurements are compared to determine whether a change in response may be caused by a spill from the object, the significance of the real time measurements being validated through sampling of the organisms on a regular basis or as required, in order to analyze the effects on the health of the organisms, biomarkers, for the purpose of assessing the significance of the environmental effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: Biota Guard AS
    Inventors: Odd Kjetil Andersen, Steinar Sanni
  • Publication number: 20100234665
    Abstract: A disposal unit can include a substantially air tight chamber, an insertion component, an air tight region of the air tight chamber containing a disposal container, an air holding region, an air extraction unit, an air sanitation component, a container sealant mechanism, and/or combinations thereof. The air holding region can be distinct from the air tight region and the remaining region of the substantially air tight chamber. The air extraction unit can be configured to capture air from the remaining region and place the captured air in the air holding region. Air can be optionally redirected from the air holding region into an airtight disposal container, which is thereafter sealed. The air sanitation component can be configured to sanitize the captured air to a predetermined air quality level. Harmful byproducts of the waste (e.g., toxic vapors) inserted in the disposal unit can be reduced and/or neutralized through sanitation and/or containment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2010
    Publication date: September 16, 2010
    Inventor: LOUIS M. SOTO
  • Publication number: 20080312489
    Abstract: Described herein is a method and instrumentation for cleaning up mercury spilled from broken fluorescent light bulbs. The method provides for the safe clean-up of the mercury spilled from four or fewer four-foot bulbs (or their equivalent) without the use of a respirator or other respiratory protection, while avoiding the expense associated with contracting an environmental remediation firm to perform the clean-up.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2008
    Publication date: December 18, 2008
    Inventors: Terry L. Grover, Charles A. Vidich, James J. Hennessey, John C. Freitas, M. Douglas Mueller
  • Publication number: 20080312488
    Abstract: A scale assembly for weighing potentially hazardous materials comprise a containment deck designed to support a container from which materials are dispensed. The containment deck is preferably provided with sufficient storage capacity to capture spillage or leaks from the container and is supported on a low-profile platform supported in turn by load cells which generate signals indicative of the weight of the contents of the container and of any spillage within the containment deck. The containment deck is further equipped with a level detector typically positioned near the bottom of the deck for generating signals indicating the presence of leakage or spillage from the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2008
    Publication date: December 18, 2008
    Inventors: Edward M. Dougherty, JR., Edward M. Dougherty, III
  • Patent number: 7456418
    Abstract: A cementitious container that has a low-frequency radio tag containing the container's pedigree and history. The container is used for storage of hazardous waste are disclosed having an inner layer of substantially unhydrated cement in contact with the hazardous waste and an outer layer of hydrated cement. Cementitious hazardous waste containers may be prepared by compressing powdered hydraulic cement around solid hazardous waste materials as well as the encapsulated radio tag that uses low frequency communication. This makes it possible to read and write information though the wall of the container as during transportation to a storage site. Once placed at the storage site, the pedigree, (history contents, Chain of Possession, Proof of delivery, weight), may be checked and verified by reading the tag on a regular basis, (once an hour), to confirm the vessel is intact and has not been moved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2008
    Assignee: Visible Assets, Inc
    Inventors: John K. Stevens, Paul Waterhouse, Jason August
  • Publication number: 20080188704
    Abstract: The method includes providing the volume of waste in a monitoring space; providing a support, the support being provided with a plurality of detectors for radioactive material; monitoring the volume of waste for radioactive material, in one or more parts, to give a monitoring results; and correcting the monitoring result for geometry and/or attenuation to give a corrected result using a correction factor. The correction factor is obtained by a method that includes providing a simulation of an equivalent volume of waste free of radioactive material in an equivalent monitoring space, with equivalent detectors; providing a known activity radioactive source at one or more positions in the volume of waste; determining the detector response to the source in a position, a comparison of the response and known activity contributing to a correction function for that equal volume, one or more such correction functions providing the correction factor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: BIL Solutions Limited
    Inventor: Christopher Henry Orr
  • Publication number: 20080086023
    Abstract: An installation for investigating objects (10a) using magnetic resonance comprising a safety room (1) which has gastight walls (1a-c) and having a magnet system (9) for producing a homogenous magnetic field in an investigational volume (13), the magnet system (9) comprising a gastight outer shell (19) which is penetrated in a shell region (29) by feed-throughs (39a-d) into the interior of the magnet system (9), is characterized in that the magnet system (9) is arranged in the safety room (1), and one of the gastight walls (1a-c) is penetrated in an access region (1e), wherein a gastight connecting element (14) is present between the access region (1e) and the shell region (29) which, at its ends, is connected in a gastight manner to the gastight wall and the gastight outer shell (19) respectively, so that access from outside the safety room (1) is available to the shell region (29) and the feed-throughs there (39a-d), that access being sealed in a gastight manner with respect to the safety room (1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2007
    Publication date: April 10, 2008
    Applicant: Bruker BioSpin MRI GmbH
    Inventor: Bernd Gewiese
  • Patent number: 6991593
    Abstract: A process for the stabilization of metal bearing waste is provided that is based upon the discovery that landfills have anaerobic environments. This process includes adjusting the pH of the waste and adding a sulfide containing reducing agent to the waste to achieve a reducing environment. In one embodiment, electric arc furnace dust is stabilized for landfill disposal. Also provided is a method for a determination of landfilled waste leachability. This method is performed under conditions that simulate the chemical characteristics of landfills. In one embodiment, stabilized metal bearing waste is deoxygenated and a simulated leachate is prepared under anaerobic conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Assignee: Heritage Environmental Services, LLC
    Inventors: Kenneth S. Price, Joe Kurek, Kurt Whitfield, Herbert I. Wissel
  • Patent number: 6962561
    Abstract: A method for the disposal of biosolids, the method comprising providing a supply of biosolids; selecting an introduction formation below a ground surface, the introduction formation comprising a natural gas formation in a gas accumulation zone; introducing the biosolids into the introduction formation at a pressure sufficient to create and maintain fractures within the selected introduction formation; and allowing degradation of the introduced biosolids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2005
    Assignees: Terralog Technologies USA, Inc., Terralog Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: Michael S. Bruno, Maurice B. Dusseault, Roman Bilak
  • Patent number: 6865937
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for increasing the safety of a clogged or failed exhaust system. In accordance with a first embodiment, an apparatus is provided that includes (1) a tank adapted to contain a processing fluid; (2) an exhaust system coupled to the tank and adapted to exhaust a gas from the tank, the gas including a hazardous vapor of the processing fluid; (3) a sensor coupled to the exhaust system and adapted to detect a rate at which gas is exhausted from the tank; and (4) a fluid supply mechanism adapted to supply a diluting fluid to the tank so as to dilute the processing fluid contained by the tank if the rate at which gas is exhausted from the tank is less than a predetermined rate. Systems, methods and computer program products are provided in accordance with this and other embodiments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2005
    Assignee: Applied Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Alexander N Lerner, Harshad M Borgaonkar
  • Patent number: 6796746
    Abstract: Systems and methods relating to subterranean drilling while maintaining containment of any contaminants released during the drilling. A thrust block installed over a zone of interest provides an overflow space for retaining any contaminants and excess sealant returns. Negative air pressure may be maintained in the overflow space by a ventilation system. Access ports in the thrust block seal the overflow space from the surrounding environment with a membrane seal. A flexible sack seal in the access port may be connected to a drill shroud prior to drilling, providing containment during drilling after the drill bit penetrates the membrane seal. The drill shroud may be adapted to any industry standard drilling rig and includes a connection conduit for connecting to the flexible sack seal and a flexible enclosure surrounding the drill shaft and of a length to accommodate full extension thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Assignee: Bachtel BWXT Idaho, LLC
    Inventors: James J. Jessmore, Guy G. Loomis, Mark C. Pettet, Melissa C. Flyckt
  • Patent number: 6491616
    Abstract: A method for the disposal of biosolids, the method comprising a) providing a supply of biosolids; creating a slurry of the biosolids suitable for injecting; selecting an injection formation below a ground surface, the injection formation comprising a natural gas formation in a gas accumulation zone; injecting the biosolids slurry into the injection formation at a pressure sufficient to create and maintain fractures within the selected injection formation; and allowing degradation of the injected biosolids slurry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Assignees: Terralog Technologies USA, Inc., Terralog Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: Michael S. Bruno, Maurice B. Dusseault, Roman Bilak
  • Publication number: 20020111527
    Abstract: A method for the disposal of biosolids, the method comprising a) providing a supply of biosolids; creating a slurry of the biosolids suitable for injecting; selecting an injection formation below a ground surface, the injection formation comprising a natural gas formation in a gas accumulation zone; injecting the biosolids slurry into the injection formation at a pressure sufficient to create and maintain fractures within the selected injection formation; and allowing degradation of the injected biosolids slurry.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2002
    Publication date: August 15, 2002
    Inventors: Michael S. Bruno, Maurice B. Dusseault, Roman Bilak
  • Patent number: 6422789
    Abstract: This specification discloses a method and apparatus for the remediation of soil contaminated by pollutants. The method utilizes a unitary mobile remediation apparatus in which the soil is impounded, metered, and transported to be sprayed with a treatment spray, pulverized, and mixed to blend the spray with the soil. The disclosed unitary mobile remediation apparatus utilizes mechanical, gravimetric, inertial methods, and enclosed conveyors to accomplish the flow of the soil through the apparatus and also includes adjustable and separately supplied spray nozzles to alter the amount and coverage area of the treatment spray to be ejected by the nozzles. The apparatus also utilizes a screen to prevent the entry of excessively large objects into the treatment apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Inventor: Jonathan H. Brewer
  • Patent number: 6409650
    Abstract: A method for the disposal of biosolids, such as municipal sewage waste, comprising injecting the biosolids into a subsurface injection formation. The method can include recovering methane generated from the degradation of the biosolids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2002
    Assignees: Terralog Technologies USA, Inc., Terralog Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: Michael S. Bruno, Maurice B. Dusseault, Roman Bilak
  • Patent number: 6383128
    Abstract: Improved methods and compositions for decreasing the bioavailability of metals in soil are provided. Broadly, the methods comprise mixing a source of phosphorus and an oxide of manganese with the contaminated soil so as to reduce the metal bioavailability in the soil. The phosphorus source and oxide of manganese can be individually mixed with the soil, or can be provided as a premix powder or granule to be mixed with the contaminated soil. Preferably, the pH of the soil is then adjusted to, and maintained at, a level of at least about 7.0. Preferred phosphorus sources include phosphate rock, alkali and alkaline earth metal phosphates, ammonium phosphates, ammonium orthophosphates, orthophosphoric acid, and superphosphates. Preferred oxides of manganese include MnO2, Mn3O4, birnessite, cryptomelane, and psilomelanes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Assignee: Kansas State University Research Foundation
    Inventors: Gary M. Pierzynski, Ganga M. Hettiarachchi
  • Patent number: 6359187
    Abstract: A system and method for filling, dewatering and sealing high integrity containers for storing high level radioactive debris has a support structure for receiving a container and a movable hood supported over the support structure. The movable hood is movable between a filling/dewatering position, an intermediate position, and a sealing position. Fill and dewatering lines extend through the hood and have flexible lower portions with connectors for interfacing with the container to be filled. The flexible lower portions are movable into and out of engagement with respective connectors on the container when the hood is in the filling/dewatering position. A plurality of valves are provided to isolate the fill and dewatering lines to minimize release of radioactive debris during connector mating and demating operations. A straw extends through the hood for removing water from an upper volume of the container when the hood is in the intermediate position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2002
    Assignee: Westinghouse Electric Company LLC
    Inventor: Edward F. Lamoureux
  • Patent number: 6338596
    Abstract: A waste collection device which comprises, inside a pit, a plate for supporting at least one container; the plate is provided with supports adapted to limit its downward motion to a minimum elevation which allows the container to lie fully within the pit; a monolithic structure, with a base and a lid provided with waste insertion pillars, the base and the lid being spaced so that when the lid is at the level of the paving that surrounds the pit the base lies at a lower level than the supporting plate; the structure is provided with movement device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2002
    Inventors: Carlo Galeazzi, Gianpietro Galeazzi
  • Patent number: 6287248
    Abstract: A method for the disposal of biosolids, such as municipal sewage waste, comprising injecting the biosolids into a subsurface injection formation. The method can include recovering methane generated from the degradation of the biosolids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2001
    Assignee: Terralog Technologies USA, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael S. Bruno, Maurice B. Dusseault, Roman Bilak
  • Patent number: 6276871
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a soil remediation method, and more particularly to a soil remediation method relying on the chemical oxidation of organic contaminants in saturated or unsaturated soil and aided by mechanical agitation of the soil. The method may be carried out in ex-situ or in-situ schemes per the devices disclosed herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2001
    Inventor: Bruce L. Bruso
  • Patent number: 6250846
    Abstract: An apparatus for soil remediation to remedy a soil contaminated with a pollutant less affecting the environment, which includes a soil borer having a rotatable drilling form or portion capable of agitating the soil, introducing into the soil at least one agent selected from the group consisting of a microorganism capable of degrading the pollutant, a nutrient for the microorganism and an inducer to make the microorganism express the pollutant-degrading activity, and measuring pollutant concentration in the soil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2001
    Assignees: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha, Raita Kogyo Co. Ltd.
    Inventors: Yuji Kawabata, Masatoshi Iio, Yuri Senshu, Takeshi Handa
  • Patent number: 6221002
    Abstract: The concentration of potentially toxic hexavalent chromium, {Cr(VI)}, in chromium-bearing soils/materials existing in the form of soils, sludges, sediments, fill, industrial wastes, or other materials is decreased by applying and mixing a single reducing agent, ascorbic acid, to effect chemical reduction of Cr(VI) to a less toxic valence state. Ascorbic acid is added at ambient temperature in aqueous solution or slurry form and mixed with Cr(VI)-bearing soils/materials in amounts based on test results of representative samples of the material to be treated. Ascorbic acid may also be added in a dry form if sufficient moisture is present in the soils/materials to allow for dissolution of the ascorbic acid and reaction with the Cr(VI) in the material. The percentage reduction of the Cr(VI) concentration is greater and is achieved more rapidly than previously reported using other organic chemical reducing agents.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Assignee: Chemical Land Holdings, Inc.
    Inventor: Bruce R. James
  • Patent number: 6139222
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for containing and protecting oblong and odd-sized objects with plastic sheeting that may form a cylindrical enclosure by pressure sealing extruded plastic profile fasteners located at opposing edges of the plastic sheet.The open ends of the cylindrical enclosure may closed by folding the sheeting at the ends and sealing it with duct tape, or the ends may be left open, thus allowing several sections of sheeting to be placed adjacent to each other to enclose an object that exceeds the width of the sheeting. The fasteners may be tinted with different colors to provide color coded pressure closable seals that provide information about the article or material enclosed. By using different color combinations, the color of pressure seal may indicate whether the plastic sheeting is protecting non-hazardous material or containing hazardous material, or indicate the type of contained hazardous material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Inventor: Joseph Edward Hains
  • Patent number: 6132356
    Abstract: The invention provides a portable apparatus and a method for quickly conting, suppressing and mitigating localized hazardous material spills. The hazardous material containment apparatus has a vapor, aerosol and particulate containment vessel having a cover and side walls attached around a perimeter of the cover to define an open central cavity. Each of the cover and side walls are composed of a material which resists penetration of a hazardous material therethrough. A tube extending through the vessel has a first end open at a point inside the cavity and a second end at a point outside the vessel. Vacuum and filtration systems are attached to the second end of the tube for extracting a hazardous material from inside the cavity to outside the vessel through the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Paul G. Schabdach, James A. Genovese
  • Patent number: 6056477
    Abstract: A waste disposal site according to the present invention is provided with water-impermeable properties by water-impermeable materials covering a bottom surface and a sloped side surface of the waste disposal site. The waste disposal site is provided with a water-impermeable material damage-detecting system comprising electrodes for feeding electricity disposed above and below the water-impermeable materials for forming an electric field, and electrodes for measurement disposed along the water-impermeable materials. The system allows for detection of damages to the water-impermeable materials based on a potential variation at a damaged portion thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2000
    Assignee: Taiyo Kogyo Corporation
    Inventors: Shigeo Ueda, Osamu Imabayashi
  • Patent number: 6048419
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a compacting process suitable particularly for the compacting of materials with a pyrophoric tendency and especially for the compacting of scrap metal generated in the nuclear industry; and compacting means (4), and a compacting device including said means (4), appropriate for the implementation of said process. In said process the blanketed materials are compacted with optimized complementary external blanketing. The inert gas used for said external blanketing is characteristically conveyed via the compacting means (4) and blown in through their lower end (15).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2000
    Assignee: Campagnie Generale des Matieres Nucleaires
    Inventors: Jean-Claude Guerin, deceased, by Robert Rene Guerin, legal representative, Philippe Kerrien, Gerard Limeuil
  • Patent number: 6024513
    Abstract: The present invention includes a method of decomposing municipal solid waste (MSW) within a landfill by converting the landfill to aerobic degradation in the following manner: (1) injecting air via the landfill leachate collection system (2) injecting air via vertical air injection wells installed within the waste mass; (3) applying leachate to the waste mass using a pressurized drip irrigation system; (4) allowing landfill gases to vent; and (5) adjusting air injection and recirculated leachate to achieve a 40% to 60% moisture level and a temperature between 120.degree. F. and 140.degree. F. in steady state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2000
    Assignee: American Technologies Inc
    Inventors: Mark P Hudgins, Bernard J Bessette, John March, Scott T. McComb
  • Patent number: 6016714
    Abstract: A sensor system is disclosed for a buried waste containment site having a bottom wall barrier and/or sidewall barriers, for containing hazardous waste. The sensor system includes one or more sensor devices disposed in one or more of the barriers for detecting a physical parameter either of the barrier itself or of the physical condition of the surrounding soils and buried waste, and for producing a signal representing the physical parameter detected. Also included is a signal processor for receiving signals produced by the sensor device and for developing information identifying the physical parameter detected, either for sounding an alarm, displaying a graphic representation of a physical parameter detected on a viewing screen and/or a hard copy printout.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2000
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Idaho Technologies Company
    Inventors: Ann Marie Smith, Bradley M. Gardner, Kevin M. Kostelnik, Judy K. Partin, Gregory D. Lancaster, May Catherine Pfeifer
  • Patent number: 6006588
    Abstract: A system, container, and methods are provided for containing and handling a toxic gas. The system preferably includes a first container having toxic gas stored therein and a second container including a base and a lid mounted to the base when in a closed position. The base has an inner chamber formed therein, and the first container is preferably mounted in the inner chamber so that an interstitial space is formed around at least portions of the first container. The system also preferably includes a toxic gas use remover connected to the first container and extending through the second container for removing toxic gas from the first container for use and a toxic gas detoxifying remover connected to the second container for removal of toxic gas when located within the interstitial space of the second container and for detoxifying the toxic gas thereafter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1999
    Assignee: The Dumont Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald H. Cartwright, Dennis Haylin
  • Patent number: 6004070
    Abstract: A new covered landfill or remediated waste containment cell having an excavated bottom surface, lined with a watertight liner and a leak detection system for determining whether or not leakage has occurred, either from the top, or from the bottom. The cover over the landfill containment cell substantially prevents rainwater from coming in the top, and the liner stops water from erupting up from the bottom. This containment cell allows a method of storing waste in an essentially non-contaminating manner, thereby providing an environmentally sound procedure and apparatus for storing toxic wastes. This containment cell is particularly suitable for remediating old leaking landfill sites within a short distance of the old site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1999
    Inventor: John W. Van Camp
  • Patent number: 6002063
    Abstract: Injection of slurried wastes is carried out within deeply buried strata. Appropriate target strata are identified in terms of sufficient porosity and permeability, and overburden that includes permeable and impermeable strata. Slurry is injected at sufficient pressure to establish fracturing within the target strata. The injection pressures and the resulting waste pod are monitored by a suite of monitoring procedures, including bottomhole pressure and surface uplift. The injection is carried out in a series of injection episodes separated by interinjection episodes. Apparatus for preparing and injection the slurry include a mixing chamber, a partly encased well and a bottomhole pressure gauge. Process monitoring apparatus controls the operation of the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Assignees: Terralog Technologies Inc., Terralog Technologies U.S.A., Inc.
    Inventors: Roman Anthony Bilak, Leo Rothenburg, Maurice Dusseault
  • Patent number: 5976270
    Abstract: A method is provided to render non-hazardous surface soil which is contaminated with lead compounds. The soil is treated by applying an aqueous composition comprising hydrogen peroxide, ammonium hydroxide, nitric acid and acetic acid and allowing said composition to migrate through the soil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Inventors: Joseph Zelez, Anthony Peter Balestrieri, Robert Howard
  • Patent number: 5951457
    Abstract: The concentration of potentially toxic hexavalent chromium, {Cr(VI)}, in chromium-bearing soils/materials existing in the form of soils, sludges, sediments, fill, industrial wastes, or other materials is decreased by applying and mixing a single reducing agent, ascorbic acid, to effect chemical reduction of Cr(VI) to a less toxic valence state. Ascorbic acid is added at ambient temperature in aqueous solution or slurry form and mixed with Cr(VI)-bearing soils/materials in amounts based on test results of representative samples of the material to be treated. Ascorbic acid may also be added in a dry form if sufficient moisture is present in the soils/materials to allow for dissolution of the ascorbic acid and reaction with the Cr(VI) in the material. The percentage reduction of the Cr(VI) concentration is greater and is achieved more rapidly than previously reported using other organic chemical reducing agents.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Assignee: Chemical Land Holdings. Inc.
    Inventor: Bruce R. James
  • Patent number: 5905184
    Abstract: A method is disclosed for constructing, verifying, and maintaining underground vaults that isolate and contain radioactive burial sites. The method employs a buoyant lift technique to isolate a block of soil containing the contaminates from the surrounding soil. An impermeable synthetic liner is embedded in the vault to enhance the integrity of the system. The integrity of the vault is monitored by a system of sensors placed both inside and outside of the sealed vault. The method eliminates the need to excavate or drill in the contaminated areas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 18, 1999
    Inventor: Ernest E. Carter, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5905036
    Abstract: Characterization of organic contaminants in subsurface formation is performed by methods for detecting the presence of nonaqueous phase liquid in a subsurface formation, and for determining the composition and for determining the volume of nonaqueous phase liquids. Generally the methods comprise introducing one or more partitioning tracers and one or more non-partitioning tracers at one or more injection points located in the subsurface formation and measuring separation between the one or more partitioning tracers and the one or more non-partitioning tracers from one or more sampling points located in the subsurface formation to determine presence, composition and/or volume of nonaqueous phase liquid in the subsurface formation. In addition, the methods can be used to assess the performance of an attempted remediation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 18, 1999
    Assignee: Board Of Regents, The University of Texas System
    Inventors: Gary A. Pope, Richard E. Jackson
  • Patent number: 5898003
    Abstract: An odor collection station for a waste water lagoon with a buoyant housing having a top, open bottom, and opposite side and end walls. The housing having a U-shaped duct with an upper and lower passageway connected by a vertical passageway. Buoyant elements secured to the housing maintain the lower passageway at a level higher than the water surface. Compressed air forced through an inlet port of the lower passageway combines with odors that rise from the lagoon surface and are pumped through the vertical and upper passageway to an outlet port where odor components are contained, measured, and analyzed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1999
    Assignee: Iowa State University Research Foundation, Inc.
    Inventors: Alan A. DiSpirito, James A. Zahn
  • Patent number: 5888022
    Abstract: A system and method are provided for treating biodegradable waste material in a landfill by aerobic degradation. Waste material is deposited in the landfill and covered. The moisture content in the landfill is increased from about 40% to about 70% and a source of oxygen is injected into the landfill to drive and maintain primarily aerobic degradation of the waste material. The temperature in the landfill is increased to substantially eliminate pathogens from the waste material. The temperature in the landfill is controlled within a range of about 130.degree. F. to about 150.degree. F. to sustain the primarily aerobic degradation. Any combination of oxygen content, moisture content, and temperature in the landfill is monitored and varied to sustain and maintain the primarily aerobic degradation in the landfill.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 30, 1999
    Assignee: Environmental Control Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Leon C. Green
  • Patent number: 5857810
    Abstract: A chemical barrier is formed by injecting a suspension of solid particles or colloids into the subsurface. First, a stable colloid suspension is made including a surfactant and a non-Newtonian fluid. This stable colloid suspension is characterized by colloid concentration, colloid size, colloid material, solution ionic strength, and chemical composition. A second step involves injecting the optimized stable colloid suspension at a sufficiently high flow rate to move the colloids through the subsurface sediment, but not at such a high rate so as to induce resuspending indigenous soil particles in the aquifer. While injecting the stable colloid suspension, a withdrawal well may be used to draw the injected colloids in a direction perpendicular to the flow path of a contaminant plume. The withdrawal well, may then be used as an injection well, and a third well, in line with the first two wells, may then be used as a withdrawal well, thereby increasing the length of the colloid barrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 12, 1999
    Assignee: Battelle Memorial Institute
    Inventors: Kirk J. Cantrell, Daniel I. Kaplan
  • Patent number: 5846178
    Abstract: A method is disclosed for reducing the leaching of lead from a lead bearing material or waste. The method includes contacting the material or waste with a water soluble phosphate and a complexing agent, wherein the complexing agent is at least slightly water soluble, whereby a lead product is formed which is less soluble than the lead originally in the material or waste, thereby reducing the leaching of lead from the material or waste as determined by a leach test performed on the material or waste.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1998
    Inventor: Keith E. Forrester
  • Patent number: 5819787
    Abstract: An apparatus for safely delivering a hazardous fluid substance to a receiving structure includes a supply cylinder containing a hazardous fluid substance and having a supply cylinder release port; a high pressure containment vessel having a vessel wall and a vessel receiving end, for receiving and safely enclosing the supply cylinder; a conduit structure in fluid communication with the supply cylinder and with the receiving structure for delivering the hazardous fluid substance from the supply cylinder into the receiving structure; and a supply cylinder loading structure for loading the supply cylinder into the containment vessel, including a containment vessel pivoting assembly having a structure for tilting the containment vessel into a substantially horizontal position and a supply cylinder pivoting assembly having a structure for tilting the supply cylinder into a substantially horizontal position for sliding the supply cylinder into the vessel receiving end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1998
    Inventor: Rudolph Caparros