Compositions Patents (Class 588/901)
  • Patent number: 9040768
    Abstract: A method and device for limiting the degassing of tritiated waste issued from the nuclear industry are provided. The method reduces an amount of generated tritiated hydrogen (T2 or HT) and/or tritiated water (HTO or T2O) including at least one piece of tritiated waste from the nuclear industry. The method includes placing the package in contact with a mixture including manganese dioxide (MnO2) combined with a component that includes silver; and placing the package in contact with a molecular sieve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Inventors: Xavier Lefebvre, Karine Liger, Michele Troulay
  • Patent number: 9029623
    Abstract: A treatment process of persistent organic pollutants contained in particles is provided. Said process includes reacting persistent organic pollutant in particles under hydrothermal conditions in the presence of Fe2+ and Fe3+. Several beneficial effects can be achieved, including 1) no other additive is needed during the reaction process; 2) Fe2+ and Fe3+ are safe, cheap and extensive sources; 3) because Fe2+ and Fe3+ are dissolved, they can fully disperse into particles, and fully contact can be achieved, thus obtaining a decomposition rate no less than 70% of the persistent organic pollutants is under subcritical conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: Tonji University
    Inventors: Dezhen Chen, Yuyan Hu, Pengfei Zhang, Lijie Yin
  • Patent number: 9011789
    Abstract: A treatment system and a method for removal of at least one halogenated compound, such as PCBs, found in contaminated systems are provided. The treatment system includes a polymer blanket for receiving at least one non-polar solvent. The halogenated compound permeates into or through a wall of the polymer blanket where it is solubilized with at least one non-polar solvent received by said polymer blanket forming a halogenated solvent mixture. This treatment system and method provides for the in situ removal of halogenated compounds from the contaminated system. In one embodiment, the halogenated solvent mixture is subjected to subsequent processes which destroy and/or degrade the halogenated compound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: The United States of America as Represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
    Inventors: Jacqueline W. Quinn, Christian A. Clausen, Cherie L. Yestrebsky
  • Patent number: 8969646
    Abstract: A method of preparing a simple ceramic ingot of a spent filter having radioactive cesium trapped therein, and a ceramic ingot of a spent filter having improved properties such as leach resistance, thermal stability, and cesium content are provided. The method includes grinding and mixing a spent filter having cesium trapped therein, adding a solidifying agent, and sintering the spent filter. The method of preparing a ceramic ingot of a spent filter can be useful in preparing the ceramic ingot of the spent filter from only the spent filter by means of simple grinding and sintering, and in preparing the ceramic ingot of the spent filter by adding a small amount of a solidifying agent. The ceramic ingot of the spent filter has a high density and improved thermal stability, and shows improved leach resistance since a leach rate of a radioactive material is remarkably low. Therefore, the spent filter having radioactive cesium trapped therein can be effectively used to prepare a stable ceramic ingot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignees: Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute, Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jin-Myeong Shin, Jae Hwan Yang, Jang Jin Park, Youngja Kim, Geun-Il Park
  • Patent number: 8962907
    Abstract: The present invention intends to provide a method for removing radioactive cesium, or radioactive iodine and radioactive cesium that is simple and low-cost, further does not require an energy source such as electricity, moreover can take in and stably immobilize the removed radioactive substances within a solid, and can reduce the volume of radioactive waste as necessary, and to provide a hydrophilic resin composition using for the method for removing radioactive cesium, or radioactive iodine and radioactive cesium, and the object of the present invention is achieved by using a hydrophilic resin composition containing: at least one hydrophilic resin selected from the group consisting of a hydrophilic polyurethane resin, a hydrophilic polyurea resin, and a hydrophilic polyurethane-polyurea resin each having at least a hydrophilic segment; and a zeolite dispersed therein in a ratio of at least 1 to 200 mass parts relative to 100 mass parts of the hydrophilic resin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignees: Dainichiseika Color & Chemicals Mfg. Co., Ltd., Ukima Chemicals & Color Mfg. Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kazuyuki Hanada, Manabu Uruno, Kazuya Kimura, Kenichi Takahashi
  • Patent number: 8951182
    Abstract: A method for vitrification of waste to reduce the formation of persistent secondary phases comprising separating at least one glass frit constituent from an initial glass frit to form a modified glass frit. The waste, modified glass frit, and the at least one glass frit constituent are mixed together with the modified glass frit and the at least one glass frit constituent being added as separate components. The resulting mixture is vitrified.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: EnergySolutions, LLC
    Inventors: Akito Yamazaki, Yoshihiro Endo, Katsuyuki Shirato, Kunihiko Nakano, Ian L. Pegg, Hao Gan, Keith Matlack, Innocent Joseph, Bradley W. Bowan, II
  • Patent number: 8920824
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a treatment by pulmonary delivery of a bioscavenger to animals as an effective antidote to prevent toxicity produced by exposure of an animal to nerve agents and other toxic substances.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Inventor: Yvonne Rosenberg
  • Patent number: 8871674
    Abstract: By fibrillated cellulose fibrillated in fiber form and humidified as a water permeable polymeric substance of botanical origin and a radioactive-substance-absorbent obtained by mixing with zeolite as a granulated inorganic porous crystal, radioactive substances released and spilled in a accident etc. in a nuclear facility etc. may be efficiently and easily collected and removed at a low cost.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Seibu Newspaper Company
    Inventor: Masao Yamada
  • Patent number: 8829261
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a method of treating radioactive metal waste using melt decontamination, wherein radioactive metal waste, which is generated from nuclear fuel processing facilities or nuclear fuel production facilities, and which cannot be easily treated by surface decontamination because it has a complicated geometric shape, and the surface contamination of which cannot be measured, can be treated by melt decontamination. The method is advantageous in that radioactive metal waste, which cannot be treated by conventional surface decontamination, can be treated, so that radioactive metal waste can be recycled, thereby obtaining economic profits, and further in that a large storage space necessary for cutting and then storing radioactive metal waste is not required, and in that excessive manpower and cost are not required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Kepco Nuclear Fuel Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Suk Ju Cho, Young Bae Lee, Jeung Gun Seol, Yong Jae Kim, Wook Jin Han, Jae Bong Ryu, Hyun Gyu Kang
  • Patent number: 8796500
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method of disposing of radioactive metal waste using melting decontamination, including sorting radioactive metal waste generated in nuclear fuel processing or production facilities by predetermined sorting criteria, and charging sorted metal waste into a melting furnace so as to be melted; adding a impurity remover to the melt of the melting furnace to remove generated slag; pouring the melt having no slag into a mold to form an ingot; subjecting the ingot to gamma spectroscopy using a gamma spectrometer to measure gamma rays of U-235 (185.72 keV, 57.2%) among uranium isotopes, performing detector calibration using a certified reference material and self-absorption correction depending on the density of a medium using MCNP computer code, and calculating total radioactivity of the ingot from the quantified radioactivity and mass of U-235; and efficiently and rapidly determining whether the ingot subjected to radioactivity measurement satisfies a clearance limit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: Kepco Nuclear Fuel Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Suk Ju Cho, Young Bae Lee, Jeung Gun Seol, Yong Jae Kim
  • Patent number: 8785808
    Abstract: An apparatus for synergistically combining a plasma with a comminution means such as a fluid kinetic energy mill (jet mill), preferably in a single reactor and/or in a single process step is provided by the present invention. Within the apparatus of the invention potential energy is converted into kinetic energy and subsequently into angular momentum by means of wave energy, for comminuting, reacting and separation of feed materials. Methods of use of the apparatus in the practice of various processes are also provided by the present invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Foret Plasma Labs, LLC
    Inventor: Todd Foret
  • Patent number: 8766030
    Abstract: Accelerated dechlorination of soil and water contaminated with chlorinated solvents in situ is achieved by delivering ferric ammonium citrate into the soils and/or water. The induction of ferric ammonium citrate into sulfate-rich reducing conditions initiates a combined abiotic and biotic mechanism for the dechlorination of subsurface contaminants. Initial and rapid removal of chlorinated solvents is achieved by way of reductive transformation, a mechanism utilizing the creation of an iron-bound soil mineral (pyrite) followed by stimulating conditions for enhanced biological natural attenuation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: Innovative Environmental Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Scalzi
  • Patent number: 8669203
    Abstract: Compositions and methods for producing a manufactured product, a method for making a liquid absorbent, and processes for disposal of flammable liquids with a flue gas desulfurization by-product. The compositions for the manufactured products combine a binder and the by-product. The composition contains a greater percentage by weight of the by-product than the binder. The methods for producing manufactured products include dewatering the gypsum-depleted waste stream to reduce a water content, and forming the manufactured product. The method for making a liquid absorbent includes dewatering, granulating, drying, heating, and packaging a granulated gypsum-depleted composition as the liquid absorbent. The processes for disposal of flammable liquids include distributing a by-product into contact with flammable liquid, absorbing the liquid, transporting, and igniting the flammable liquid. The artificial soils are a combination of by-product and animal waste.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Assignee: Utter Technology LLC
    Inventor: Terry D. Utter
  • Patent number: 8636848
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a vacuumable gel and the gel use to decontaminate surfaces, for example, radioactive decontamination. The gel is composed of a colloidal solution comprising: from 5 to 25 wt % of an inorganic viscosity modifier; from 0.01 to 0.2 wt % of a surfactant, preferably, a surfactant in an amount strictly below 0.1 wt %, wt % relative to the total weight of the gel; from 0.5 to 7 mol, per liter of gel, of an inorganic acid or base; and optionally from 0.05 to 1 mol, per liter of gel, of an oxidizer having a standard redox potential Eo greater than 1.4 V in a strong acid medium or of the reduced form of this oxidizer; the remainder being water. The gel may be applied, by spraying, to a surface to be decontaminated, and removed in the form of dry residues by suction or brushing after drying.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignees: Commissariat a l'Energie Atomique, Areva NC
    Inventors: Sylvain Faure, Paul Fuentes, Yvan Lallot
  • Patent number: 8633133
    Abstract: A clay comprising a 2:1 aluminosilicate clay having negative charge sites, the 2:1 aluminosilicate clay containing subnano-sized zero valent iron (ZVI) particles distributed on clay surfaces is provided. In one embodiment, at least some or all of the particles have a cross-section of five (5) angstroms or less. Methods of synthesizing and the novel clays and the clay-templated subnano-scale ZVI particles themselves are also described. Such novel products are useful in a variety of remediation applications, including for reduction and dechlorination reactions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: Board of Trustees of Michigan State University
    Inventors: Hui Li, Cheng Gu, Stephen A. Boyd
  • Patent number: 8586817
    Abstract: A composition to control acid rock drainage is provided. The composition includes a slurry made from water and solids, the solids containing powders of limestone, clay and magnesium oxide or magnesium hydroxide. In some instances, the slurry is thixotropic and contains between 10 to 75 weight percent of solid powders. The solid powders can include between 40 to 75 weight percent limestone, 10 to 35 weight percent clay and 10 to 30 weight percent magnesium oxide or a proportional concentration of magnesium hydroxide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: The Penn State Research Foundation
    Inventor: Hubert L. Barnes
  • Patent number: 8481799
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for packaging radioactive wastes, in which the following successive steps are carried out: a/ radioactive wastes, the solids content of which comprises at least 90% of compounds selected from CaCO2, Fe2O3, SiO2, Al2O3 and B2O3, are supplemented, so as to achieve a target composition of said supplemented wastes after calcination, and b/ said supplemented radioactive wastes are melted and c/ said melt is poured into a container, so as to obtain, after cooling, a product comprising a vitreous or vitro-crystalline synthetic rock, having said target composition, characterized in that said target composition corresponds to the following definition, in a CaO, SiO2 and X2O3 ternary system, in which X2O3 is a trivalent oxide or a mixture of trivalent oxides selected from Al2O3, Fe2O3 or B2O3, PC and PS being the mass percentages of CaO and SiO2: PC is from 35 to 60%, and PS is from 10 to 45%.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Onectra
    Inventors: José Marrillet, Bernard Rottner
  • Patent number: 8410330
    Abstract: A composition to control acid rock drainage is provided. The composition includes a slurry made from water and solids, the solids containing powders of limestone, clay and magnesium oxide or magnesium hydroxide. In some instances, the slurry is thixotropic and contains between 10 to 75 weight percent of solid powders. The solid powders can include between 40 to 75 weight percent limestone, 10 to 35 weight percent clay and 10 to 30 weight percent magnesium oxide or a proportional concentration of magnesium hydroxide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: The Penn State Research Foundation
    Inventor: Hubert L. Barnes
  • Patent number: 8389439
    Abstract: Compositions and methods for producing a manufactured product, a method for making a liquid absorbent, and processes for disposal of flammable liquids with a flue gas desulfurization by-product. The compositions for the manufactured products combine a binder and the by-product. The composition contains a greater percentage by weight of the by-product than the binder. The methods for producing manufactured products include dewatering the gypsum-depleted waste stream to reduce a water content, and forming the manufactured product. The method for making a liquid absorbent includes dewatering, granulating, drying, heating, and packaging a granulated gypsum-depleted composition as the liquid absorbent. The processes for disposal of flammable liquids include distributing a by-product into contact with flammable liquid, absorbing the liquid, transporting, and igniting the flammable liquid. The artificial soils are a combination of by-product and animal waste.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Utter Technology, LLC
    Inventor: Terry D. Utter
  • Patent number: 8193115
    Abstract: A method for treating a high water content sludge is disclosed, where the method includes mixing into the high water content sludge, an effective amount of an ash composition. The effective amount of the ash composition is sufficient to convert a portion of the sludge and the ash composition into a treated sludge including an amount of a solidifying matrix to impart properties to a depth of the sludge sufficient to support commercial construction equipment. A treated sludge and sludge pits are also disclosed as is the ash composition used to form the treated sludge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Inventor: Steven Birdwell
  • Patent number: 8168175
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a treatment by pulmonary delivery of bioscavengers to animals as an effective antidote to prevent toxicity produced by exposure of an animal to nerve agents and other toxic substances.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Inventor: Yvonne Rosenberg
  • Patent number: 8163668
    Abstract: The invention provides an inorganic electrolyte setting agent capable of blocking hazardous heavy metals almost permanently and further usable as resources, based on the geological balance of elements, and a treating method for utilization as resources using the same. There is provided an inorganic electrolyte setting agent capable of rendering heavy metal ions nonhazardous, including an aqueous solution as a main agent mixed with A below and also at least one of B and C below: (A) sulfuric acid, (B) at least one of aluminum sulfate and polyaluminum sulfate, (C) at least one of polyferric sulfate and ferric chloride; and an aqueous solution as a concomitant agent mixed with D below: (D) at least one of potassium silicate and sodium silicate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Inventors: Yukio Yanagimoto, Kayohiko Tanimoto
  • Patent number: 8115046
    Abstract: A two-component, water based micro encapsulation composition and method for the cleanup of hydrocarbon spills or contaminates on various surfaces and media. The two-part formulation includes a first solution including water in a predetermined ratio of a water soluble alkaline silicate solution having at least one alkali metal and a predetermined ratio of at least one water soluble surfactant; and a second solution including water, a predetermined ratio of water soluble acid, a predetermined ratio of water dispersible polymer, a predetermined ratio of water soluble hydrotrope, and a predetermined ratio of at least one water soluble flocculating agent. A method of using the two-part formulation includes preparing the two-part formulation, allowing the first solution to contact the hydrocarbon or chemical contaminate; allowing the second solution to contact the first solution and contaminate to form a homogeneous mixture; and removing the homogeneous mixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: RTA Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Lyle D. Burns, Geoffrey O. Mitchell, Marcus S. Burns, Michael A. Burns
  • Patent number: 8057378
    Abstract: A method for the decontamination and solidification of dredged material is described. The method includes, in the following order, (a) adding a lime-based binder to dredged material to form a mixture; (b) letting the mixture cool to about ambient temperature; and (c) adding to the mixture a chelating agent. The order of the steps may not be reversed without affecting the effectiveness of the treatment of the dredged material. A method for producing filler containing decontaminated and solidified dredged material is also described. The method includes treating dredged material with a lime-based binder and a chelating agent and adding the resulting mixture to concrete.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: The Trustees of Columbia University in the City of New York
    Inventors: Sofiya Kozlova, Semyon A. Shimanovich, Christian Meyer
  • Patent number: 8026404
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a harmful material remediating agent comprising a metal oxide and a reducing material, and it can remediate environmental pollutants such as harmful organic compounds and nitrate or nitrite nitrogen-containing compounds efficiently and at low cost.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2011
    Assignee: Ishihara Sangyo Kaisha, Ltd.
    Inventors: Ken-ichi Sasaki, Kaoru Sakurai
  • Patent number: 8022265
    Abstract: A reduced weight decontamination formulation that utilizes a solid peracid compound (sodium borate peracetate) and a cationic surfactant (dodecyltrimethylammonium chloride) that can be packaged with all water removed. This reduces the packaged weight of the decontamination formulation by ˜80% (as compared to the “all-liquid” DF-200 formulation) and significantly lowers the logistics burden on the warfighter. Water (freshwater or saltwater) is added to the new decontamination formulation at the time of use from a local source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Sandia Corporation
    Inventor: Mark D. Tucker
  • Patent number: 7922644
    Abstract: A copolymer and water/ethanol solvent solution capable of binding with airborne contaminants or potential airborne contaminants, such as biological weapon agents or toxic particulates, coagulating as the solvent evaporates, and adhering the contaminants to a surface so as to inhibit the re-suspension of such contaminants. The solution uses a water or ethanol/water mixture for the solvent, and a copolymer having one of several functional group sets so as to have physical and chemical characteristics of high adhesion, low viscosity, low surface tension, negative electrostatic charge, substantially neutral pH, and a low pKa. Use of the copolymer solution prevents re-aerosolization and transport of unwanted, reactive species thus increasing health and safety for personnel charged with decontamination of contaminated buildings and areas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Lawrence Livermore National Security, LLC
    Inventors: Paula Krauter, David Zalk, D. Mark Hoffman
  • Patent number: 7915472
    Abstract: Clay-based compositions capable of absorbing contaminants from surfaces or objects having surface faces may be applied to a surface and later removed, the removed clay-based compositions absorbing at least a portion of the contaminant from the surface or object to which it was applied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Battelle Energy Alliance, LLC
    Inventors: Karen E. Wright, David C. Cooper, Dean R. Peterman, Ricky L. Demmer, Julia L. Tripp, Laurence C. Hull
  • Patent number: 7850865
    Abstract: A highly concentrated foam formulation for blast suppression and dispersion mitigation for use in responding to a terrorism incident involving a radiological dispersion device. The foam formulation is more concentrated and more stable than the current blast suppression foam (AFC-380), which reduces the logistics burden on the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: Sandia Corporation
    Inventors: Mark D. Tucker, Huizhen Gao
  • Patent number: 7750199
    Abstract: A decontamination formulation and method of making that neutralizes the adverse health effects of both chemical and biological compounds, especially chemical warfare (CW) and biological warfare (BW) agents, and toxic industrial chemicals. The formulation provides solubilizing compounds that serve to effectively render the chemical and biological compounds, particularly CW and BW compounds, susceptible to attack, and at least one reactive compound that serves to attack (and detoxify or kill) the compound. The formulation includes at least one solubilizing agent, a reactive compound, a sorbent additive, and water. A highly adsorbent sorbent additive (e.g., amorphous silica, sorbitol, mannitol, etc.) is used to “dry out” one or more liquid ingredients into a dry, free-flowing powder that has an extended shelf life, and is more convenient to handle and mix in the field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: Sandia Corporation
    Inventor: Mark D. Tucker
  • Patent number: 7737319
    Abstract: Methods of treating radioactive materials are disclosed. In one aspect, a method may include mixing a radioactive isotope diluted in a filler material with a radioactive material treatment composition to form a resulting material. The radioactive material treatment composition may include mostly salt, and from 0.5 to 15 wt % sorbent. The method may further include mixing the resulting material with one or more inorganic binding agents. Other methods of treating radioactive materials are also disclosed, as well as compositions for treating radioactive materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Assignee: Llyon Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Jack W. Matthews
  • Patent number: 7691289
    Abstract: Compositions, materials incorporating the compositions, and methods of use thereof, are disclosed. In one embodiment, the composition includes a metal nitrate selected from d-block metal nitrates and f-block metal nitrates and a metal salt having weakly bound counter anions. The metal of the metal salt having weakly bound counter anions is selected from a d-block metal and an f-block metal. Another embodiment of the composition includes a first polyoxometalate having a first metal selected from a d-block metal and an f-block metal and a second polyoxometalate having a second metal selected from a d-block metal and an f-block metal. The first metal being an open coordinate site of the first polyoxometalate. In addition, the first metal has a nitrate terminal ligand. The second metal being an open coordinate site of the second polyoxometalate. In addition, the second metal has a halide terminal ligand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: Emory University
    Inventors: Nelya Okun, Craig L. Hill
  • Patent number: 7662759
    Abstract: Decontamination formulations with an additive for enhancing mold remediation. The formulations include a solubilizing agent (e.g., a cationic surfactant), a reactive compound (e.g., hydrogen peroxide), a carbonate or bicarbonate salt, a water-soluble bleaching activator (e.g., propylene glycol diacetate or glycerol diacetate), a mold remediation enhancer containing Fe or Mn, and water. The concentration of Fe2+ or Mn2+ ions in the aqueous mixture is in the range of about 0.0001% to about 0.001%. The enhanced formulations can be delivered, for example, as a foam, spray, liquid, fog, mist, or aerosol for neutralization of chemical compounds, and for killing certain biological compounds or agents and mold spores, on contaminated surfaces and materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Assignee: Sandia Corporation
    Inventors: Mark D. Tucker, Kevin Irvine, Paul Berger, Robert Comstock
  • Patent number: 7655594
    Abstract: Briefly described, compositions, materials including the compositions, methods of using the compositions, and methods of degrading contaminants, are described herein. The composition can include a polyoxometalate/ cationic silica material. In addition, the compositions can be made of a polyoxometalate/cationic silica material, a copper (II) salt having a weakly bound anion, and a nitrate salts. Further, the compositions can be made of a polyoxometalate/cationic silica material, a copper (II) salt having a weakly bound anion, a compound selected from tetraethylammonium (TEA) nitrate, tetra-n-butylammonium (TBA) nitrate, and combinations thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Assignee: Emory University
    Inventors: Neyla Okun, Craig L. Hill
  • Patent number: 7501103
    Abstract: Tropospheric volume elements enriched with vital elements and/or protective substances as well as procedures for their production and application. The term “vital elements” applies to all matter supporting the development of life within the earth's biosphere and the term “protective substances” means all those substances which contribute directly or indirectly to the prevention of harmful effects on the earth's biosphere and in particular on man. Tropospheric volume elements in the form of clouds which contain contaminants and which can escape from industrial facilities due to damage or malfunction are enriched with protective substances which prevent the organism from taking in radioactive elements and minimize the extent of the area affected by the clouds and possess additional warning and identification properties.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2009
    Inventor: Franz-Dietrich Oeste
  • Patent number: 7390432
    Abstract: An enhanced formulation and method of making that neutralizes the adverse health effects of both chemical and biological compounds, especially chemical warfare (CW) and biological warfare (BW) agents, and toxic industrial chemicals. The enhanced formulation according to the present invention is non-toxic and non-corrosive and can be delivered by a variety of means and in different phases. The formulation provides solubilizing compounds that serve to effectively render the chemical and biological compounds, particularly CW and BW compounds, susceptible to attack, and at least one reactive compound that serves to attack (and detoxify or kill) the compound. The formulation includes at least one solubilizing agent, a reactive compound, a bleaching activator and water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Assignee: Sandia Corporation
    Inventor: Mark D. Tucker
  • Patent number: 7332529
    Abstract: Thermoreversible organogelator compositions comprising compounds of the formula: where X is C6 to C12 alkylene and R is C9 to C12 alkyl, and their methods of use, including forming a gel to immobilize a solvent using the compound. The method can be used to form gels that can be used for the transportation of volatile organic solvents like gasoline, cooking oil, and contaminated organic liquids to be incinerated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2008
    Inventor: Andrew J. Carr
  • Patent number: 7329399
    Abstract: A hydrogen-trapping compound is provided, along with a process for manufacturing the compound, and its uses, wherein the hydrogen-trapping compound is characterized in that it contains at least one metal salt of formula MX(OH), in which M represents a divalent transition element, for example Co or Ni; O represents an oxygen atom; X represents an atom of group 16 of the Periodic Table of the Elements, excluding O, for example a sulphur atom; and H represents a hydrogen atom, and wherein the hydrogen-trapping compound is effective for trapping hydrogen, hydrogen within a material and free hydrogen and is applicable in situations in which hydrogen is evolved and in which it has to be trapped, especially for safety reasons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2008
    Assignees: Commissariat a l'Energie Atomique, Compagnie Generale des Matieres Nucleaires
    Inventors: Sylvie Camaro, Quentin Ragetly, Chantal Riglet-Martial
  • Patent number: 7314512
    Abstract: A reactive coating composition and method for treating a surface including heavy metals by applying the reactive coating composition to the surface. The surface can be, for example, a paint layer containing heavy metals. The reactive coating composition includes a stabilizing agent to stabilize the heavy metal and a permeability enhancing agent to increase the permeability of the paint layer, facilitating the reaction of the heavy metal with the stabilizing agent. The structure including the treated paint layer can be left in place or can be disposed in a non-hazardous landfill.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2008
    Assignee: MT2, LLC
    Inventors: James Barthel, Mark A. Peters
  • Patent number: 7282470
    Abstract: A decontamination formulation and method of making that neutralizes the adverse health effects of both chemical and biological compounds, especially chemical warfare (CW) and biological warfare (BW) agents, and toxic industrial chemicals. The formulation provides solubilizing compounds that serve to effectively render the chemical and biological compounds, particularly CW and BW compounds, susceptible to attack, and at least one reactive compound that serves to attack (and detoxify or kill) the compound. The formulation includes at least one solubilizing agent, a reactive compound, a bleaching activator, a sorbent additive, and water. The highly adsorbent, water-soluble sorbent additive (e.g., sorbitol or mannitol) is used to “dry out” one or more liquid ingredients, such as the liquid bleaching activator (e.g., propylene glycol diacetate or glycerol diacetate) and convert the activator into a dry, free-flowing powder that has an extended shelf life, and is more convenient to handle and mix in the field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2007
    Assignee: Sandia Corporation
    Inventors: Mark D. Tucker, Robert H. Comstock
  • Patent number: 7276468
    Abstract: A decontamination formulation and method of making that neutralizes the adverse health effects of both chemical and biological compounds, especially chemical warfare (CW) and biological warfare (BW) agents, and toxic industrial chemicals. The formulation provides solubilizing compounds that serve to effectively render the chemical and biological compounds, particularly CW and BW compounds, susceptible to attack, and at least one reactive compound that serves to attack (and detoxify or kill) the compound. The formulation includes at least one solubilizing agent, a reactive compound, a sorbent additive, and water. A highly adsorbent sorbent additive (e.g., amorphous silica, sorbitol, mannitol, etc.) is used to “dry out” one or more liquid ingredients into a dry, free-flowing powder that has an extended shelf life, and is more convenient to handle and mix in the field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2007
    Assignee: Sandia Corporation
    Inventor: Mark D. Tucker
  • Patent number: 7271137
    Abstract: Aqueous decontamination formulations that neutralize biological pathogens for disinfection and sterilization applications. Examples of suitable applications include disinfection of food processing equipment, disinfection of areas containing livestock, mold remediation, sterilization of medical instruments and direct disinfection of food surfaces, such as beef carcasses. The formulations include at least one reactive compound, bleaching activator, inorganic base, and water. The formulations can be packaged as a two-part kit system, and can have a pH value in the range of 7-8.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2007
    Assignee: Sandia Corporation
    Inventors: Mark D. Tucker, Daniel E. Engler
  • Patent number: 7166758
    Abstract: Decontamination of nuclear facilities is necessary to reduce the radiation field during normal operations and decommissioning of complex equipment. In this invention, we discuss gel and foam based diphosphonic acid (HEDPA) chemical solutions that are unique in that these solutions can be applied at room temperature; provide protection to the base metal for continued applications of the equipment; and reduce the final waste form production to one step. The HEDPA gels and foams are formulated with benign chemicals, including various solvents, such as ionic liquids and reducing and complexing agents such as hydroxamic acids, and formaldehyde sulfoxylate. Gel and foam based HEDPA processes allow for decontamination of difficult to reach surfaces that are unmanageable with traditional aqueous process methods. Also, the gel and foam components are optimized to maximize the dissolution rate and assist in the chemical transformation of the gel and foam to a stable waste form.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2007
    Inventors: Luis Nunez, Michael Donald Kaminski
  • Patent number: 7166759
    Abstract: The invention provides a remediation method of soil, water and/or gases by prompt dehalogenation of halogenated hydrocarbons by allowing the halogenated hydrocarbons contained at least in one of the soil, water and/or gases to contact an iron powder containing about 0.03 to about 2% by mass of sulfur preferably on the surface, and an iron powder for use in the remediation method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2007
    Assignee: JFE Steel Corporation
    Inventors: Hiroki Nakamaru, Haruhiko Miyazawa, Yoshiei Kato
  • Patent number: 7128841
    Abstract: Stable dispersions of zero-valent iron particles are produced by milling of micro- and nano-scale iron particles (colloids) in the presence of a dispersant or dispersants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Assignee: Lehigh University
    Inventor: Wei-xian Zhang
  • Patent number: 7125497
    Abstract: Decontamination formulations for neutralization of toxic industrial chemicals, and methods of making and using same. The formulations are effective for neutralizing malathion, hydrogen cyanide, sodium cyanide, butyl isocyanate, carbon disulfide, phosgene gas, capsaicin in commercial pepper spray, chlorine gas, anhydrous ammonia gas; and may be effective at neutralizing hydrogen sulfide, sulfur dioxide, formaldehyde, ethylene oxide, methyl bromide, boron trichloride, fluorine, tetraethyl pyrophosphate, phosphorous trichloride, arsine, and tungsten hexafluoride.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Assignee: Sandia Corporation
    Inventors: Mark D. Tucker, Rita G. Betty
  • Patent number: 7034197
    Abstract: A liquid reactant metal alloy includes at least one chemically active metal for reacting with non-radioactive material in a mixed waste stream being treated. The reactant alloy also includes at least one radiation absorbing metal. Radioactive isotopes in the waste stream alloy with, or disperse in, the chemically active and radiation absorbing metals such that the radiation absorbing metals are able to absorb a significant portion of the radioactive emissions associated with the isotopes. Non-radioactive constituents in the waste material are broken down into harmless and useful constituents, leaving the alloyed radioactive isotopes in the liquid reactant alloy. The reactant alloy may then be cooled to form one or more ingots in which the radioactive isotopes are effectively isolated and surrounded by the radiation absorbing metals. These ingots comprise the storage products for the radioactive isotopes. The ingots may be encapsulated in one or more layers of radiation absorbing material and then stored.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Assignee: Clean Technologies International Corporation
    Inventor: Anthony S. Wagner
  • Patent number: 6984769
    Abstract: A reactive coating composition and method for treating a surface including heavy metals by applying the reactive coating composition to the surface. The surface can be, for example, a paint layer containing heavy metals. The reactive coating composition includes a stabilizing agent to stabilize the heavy metal and a permeability enhancing agent to increase the permeability of the paint layer, facilitating the reaction of the heavy metal with the stabilizing agent. The structure including the treated paint layer can be left in place or can be disposed in a non-hazardous landfill.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2006
    Assignee: MT2, LLC
    Inventors: James Barthel, Mark A. Peters
  • Patent number: 6841515
    Abstract: This invention relates to the production and use of encapsulated and/or concentrically-constructed fertilizer or bioremediation granules such as, for example, granules of 0.5 mm to 10 mm in diameter constructed so that there are at least two components to the granule including a core with a surrounding capsule or a core with one or more concentric layers that are distinguishable from the core with respect to nutrient content, density, hardness, solubility, composition, microbial content and permeability, as in permeability to odors or the permeability of nutrients that might volatize to the atmosphere or leach into the soil. The basic idea was to create a method for manufacturing and using fertilizer granules, which incorporate multiple concentric layers or a core plus an encapsulating outer layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Assignee: Unified Enviromental Services Group, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Jeffrey C. Burnham
  • Patent number: 6812174
    Abstract: The invention relates to methods of vitrifying waste and for lowering the melting point of glass forming systems by including lithia formers in the glass forming composition in significant amounts, typically from about 0.16 wt % to about 11 wt %, based on the total glass forming oxides. The lithia is typically included as a replacement for alkali oxide glass formers that would normally be present in a particular glass forming system. Replacement can occur on a mole percent or weight percent basis, and typically results in a composition wherein lithia forms about 10 wt % to about 100 wt % of the alkali oxide glass formers present in the composition. The present invention also relates to the high lithia glass compositions formed by these methods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Assignee: Westinghouse Savannah River Company
    Inventors: Carol M. Jantzen, John B. Pickett, Connie A. Cicero-Herman, James C. Marra