(JP8045515-A)      Cooler assembly (2) used in fuel cell stack has tubular conduit (18) contg. a flowing stream of coolant fluid and a plate (20) formed from a graphite flake and polymer binder mixt.surrounding the conduit.    USE -   The cooler assembly is used in a phosphoric acid fuel cell stack.    ADVANTAGE -   The coolant plate has enhanced heat transfer characteristics, is non-porous, and is resistant to thermally-induced stresses i.e. it is not impaired by thermal expansion and contraction of stack components. It resists degradation and maintains optimum operating characteristics during extended stack operation.    (EP683536-B1)      Cooler assembly (2) used in fuel cell stack has tubular conduit (18) contg. a flowing stream of coolant fluid and a plate (20) formed from a graphite flake and polymer binder mixt.surrounding the conduit.    USE -   The cooler assembly is used in a phosphoric acid fuel cell stack.    ADVANTAGE -   The coolant plate has enhanced heat transfer characteristics, is non-porous, and is resistant to thermally-induced stresses i.e. it is not impaired by thermal expansion and contraction of stack components. It resists degradation and maintains optimum operating characteristics during extended stack operation.    (US6050331-A)      Cooler assembly (2) used in fuel cell stack has tubular conduit (18) contg. a flowing stream of coolant fluid and a plate (20) formed from a graphite flake and polymer binder mixt.surrounding the conduit.    USE -   The cooler assembly is used in a phosphoric acid fuel cell stack.    ADVANTAGE -   The coolant plate has enhanced heat transfer characteristics, is non-porous, and is resistant to thermally-induced stresses i.e. it is not impaired by thermal expansion and contraction of stack components. It resists degradation and maintains optimum operating characteristics during extended stack operation.
(EP671775-B1)      Mechanically rechargeable consumer battery has: a replaceable Zn anode; a housing contg. the anode with a sealable aperture for removing and replacing the anode; a cathode of MnO2, Ni(OH)2, Ag2O or an air reduction type; an electrode separator; and a non-spillable electrolyte. Pref. the aperture is large enough to permit removal and replacement of the anode and the cathode.    USE -   As a consumer battery ranging in size from AAA to D, pref. at least as large as C (claimed).    ADVANTAGE -   High energy density battery can be conveniently and repeatedly recharged by replacing electrode(s).
(JP3055596-B2)      Battery for memory back-up with shut-down property, has a composite positive electrode, an electrolyte, and a composite negative electrode or a negative electrode comprising mainly an alkaline metal.     The electrolyte consists of an ion conductive high molecular wt. cpd. contg. one dissolved ionic cpd.. The composite positive electrode and the composite negative electrode have the ion conductive high molecular wt. cpd. as a constituent material. The ion conductive high molecular wt. cpd. consists of one of (a) an organic cpd. of formula R1 -(CH2 CH2 O)m -(CH2 CH(R2 )O)n -C(O)-C(R3 )=CH2 (1) and/or formula CH2 =C(R4 )-C(O)-(CH2 CH2 O)s -(CH2 CH(R5 )O)t -C(O)-C(R6 )=CH2 (2) and/or formula (3) (where R1 , R2 , and R3 = H, or 1C or more lower alkyl gps.; m 1; n 0; n/m = 0-5. R4 , R5 and R6 = H, or 1C or more lower alkyl gps.; x 3; t 0; t/s = 0-5. R7 and R8= H, or 1C or more-lower alkyl gps.; p1 3; p2 3; p3 3; q1 0; q2 0; q3 0; q2/p1 = 0-5; q2/p2 = 0-5; q3/p3 = 0-5; p1+q1 10; p2+q2 10; p3+q3 10); (b) an ionic cpd.; (c) an organic cpd. dissolving the ionic cpd.; (d) polyolefin powder; or (e) an inorganic cpd. having a hydrophobic surface.    USE -   The battery finds its application in memory backup.    ADVANTAGE -   The battery has a shutdown property (interrupting an electric current to avoid fire, bursting) for assuring battery safety, ion conductivity, and mechanical properties. The resulting battery has no electrolyte leakage, providing continuous reliability, high safety on unusual electric current, high performance, high-energy density.
(JP3031156-B2)      The alkaline storage battery has a positive and negative elecctrode with separator between them. The separator consists of a divided type compound fibre of polyolefin system made up of ethylene vinyl alcoholic copolymer and polyolefin polymer. The non-woven fabrics from which the divided type compound fibre 80- 100 percent is made as separator and is fiberized by 0.5 deniers or less.    ADVANTAGE -   Provides superb polyolefin system separator in oxidation resistance during high temperature. Prolongs lifetime of battery. Provides high industrial value.
(JP8069817-A)      An electrolyte for use in electrochemical cells comprises at least one positively charged ionic species dissolved in a macromolecular material (I). (I) is a branched or dendritic oligomer or a (co)polymer with a (non)polymeric core and at least 3 linear or branched polymeric arms attached to the core. The ratio of the mean Mw of the arms to that of the cores is at least 1 and the no. of core repeat units per branch point on the core is less than 25.    Also claimed is a macromolecular material as described above. Furthermore the material may be crosslinked or incorporated into extended polymer structures as a copolymer. The core and arms are aliphatic and the arms have at least one polar entity capable of complexing or solvating the ionic species.    USE -   (I) is used in polymer electrolyte cells and other electrochemical devices e.g. energy storage devices (batteries, capacitors, etc.), ion sensors and display devices.    ADVANTAGE -   Electrolytes formulated using (I) have improved chemical and thermal stability, and reduced volatility. They are amorphous at room temp. and have higher room temp. ionic conductivity. Conductivity of (I) is good.
(US5489491-A)       A solid electrolyte polymer precursor represented by formula (I): Vk -Y-R2-k(I)     where k is 1 or 2; R is H or C1-C6 alkyl; and V represents formula (II): CH2 =C(R5 )S(O2)-(II)     where Y represents formula (III): -O(Zn D)q Zn- (III)     where Zn represents -(R2 OC(O)R3 C(O)O)n -; D represents -C(O)NHR4 NHC(O)O-; R1 is H or C1 -C3 alkyl; R2 is C1 -C12 hydrocarbylene or oxyhydrocarbylene; R3 and R4 are independently C1 -C12 hydrocarbylene groups; R5 is H or C1 -C7hydrocarbyl; n is an integer from 1 to about 50; and q is an integer from 1 to about 100.
(JP8045545-A)      Rechargeable electrochemical generator comprises a cathode, an anode contg. a carbonaceous material having a deg. of crystallinity of more than 0.8, and an electrolyte contg. a lithium salt and a mixt. of at least two aprotic, organic solvents, where the first has a high dielectric constant and the second has a low viscosity, and also a soluble cpd. capable of reducing on the anode to a potential of more than 1V w.r.t. the lithium to form a passivation layer.    ADVANTAGE -   The mass energy and vol. are increased and remain stable during use and the removal of carbon from the anode is minimised, cf. prior art generators.    (EP683537-B1)      Rechargeable electrochemical generator comprises a cathode, an anode contg. a carbonaceous material having a deg. of crystallinity of more than 0.8, and an electrolyte contg. a lithium salt and a mixt. of at least two aprotic, organic solvents, where the first has a high dielectric constant and the second has a low viscosity, and also a soluble cpd. capable of reducing on the anode to a potential of more than 1V w.r.t. the lithium to form a passivation layer.    ADVANTAGE -   The mass energy and vol. are increased and remain stable during use and the removal of carbon from the anode is minimised, cf. prior art generators.
(JP8255629-A)      A nickel hydrogen secondary battery comprising a case containing (a) paste-type positive electrode containing a nickel oxide and a polymeric binder; (b) paste-type negative electrode containing a hydrogen absorbing alloy and a polymeric binder; (c) separator between the electrodes formed of a sheet material containing polyolefin-based synthetic resin fibres and having a hydrophilic first surface and hydrophobic and hydrophilic second surface facing the negative electrode.    Also claimed is a method for mfg. the battery by embossing a first surface of the polyolefin sheet and dipping it into a solution containing a vinyl monomer having a hydrophilic group so as to coat all surfaces except for the embossed region, followed by irradiating with an energy beam to graft polymerise the vinyl to the sheet.    ADVANTAGE -   Improved self-discharge properties and long life in high temp. storage, and inhibition of pressure increase during over-charging.    (EP680107-B1)      A nickel hydrogen secondary battery comprising a case containing (a) paste-type positive electrode containing a nickel oxide and a polymeric binder; (b) paste-type negative electrode containing a hydrogen absorbing alloy and a polymeric binder; (c) separator between the electrodes formed of a sheet material containing polyolefin-based synthetic resin fibres and having a hydrophilic first surface and hydrophobic and hydrophilic second surface facing the negative electrode.    Also claimed is a method for mfg. the battery by embossing a first surface of the polyolefin sheet and dipping it into a solution containing a vinyl monomer having a hydrophilic group so as to coat all surfaces except for the embossed region, followed by irradiating with an energy beam to graft polymerise the vinyl to the sheet.    ADVANTAGE -   Improved self-discharge properties and long life in high temp. storage, and inhibition of pressure increase during over-charging.
(JP7302925-A)      A light-transmissive resin-sealed semiconductor comprises a photoelectric transducer with an incident light-side surface covering comprising a cross-linked multi-component copolymer comprising mainly vinylidene fluoride (VDF) and hexafluoropropylene (HFP).    Processes for producing the device are also claimed .    USE -   In prodn. of (flexible) solar cells.    ADVANTAGE -   Copolymer used filler layer cover device provides excellent weather and heat resistance and fire retardancy, and provides flexibility for protection of device and excellent adhesion between device and the outermost surface covering layer.
(JP7297439-A)      The solar cell module includes a photovoltaic element, a transparent resin filler layer, a transparent surface layer and a reinforcing member. The reinforcing member is positioned on the rear of the element. The surface layer includes a film composed of a fluororesin which has a high fluorine content. The resin contains an ultraviolet absorber.    The surface protective layer has a light transmittance of 0.8 or less in a relative value to a resin contg. no ultraviolet absorber. The film has a deformation temp. of 70 deg.C or above at a pressure of 4.6 kg/cm2.    ADVANTAGE -   Cell has improved ultraviolet screening due to coating, is weather resistant, has reduced degradation due to light and efficient conversion.
(JP8018086-A)      The module includes an electroconductive substrate and a photoactive semiconductor layer which acts as a photovoltaic element with a transparent surface coating on the light introducing side. The coating layer contains alkylated tertiary amine compound and also includes a filler and an outermost layer.    The surface layer is formed of a fluororesin and contains an inorganic or polymeric ultraviolet light absorber. The filler is made from an ethylene type copolymer. The photovoltaic element has a shunt resistance between 2000 and 200000 Ohms.cm2.    ADVANTAGE -   Has high weatherability and high heat resistance. Protected from external impact. Clean due to avoiding use of fossil fuel. Safe. Easy to handle. Improved conversion efficiency.
(JP7302926-A)      Transparent resin sealed semiconductor is sealed at a light-incident face of a photoelectric transducer with a resin layer of a copolymer of ethylene and an unsatd. fatty acid ester. A pref. transducer has a conductive substrate, active layer pref. amorphous Si, and a transparent electrode.    USE -   Esp. with solar cell (module).    ADVANTAGE -   Resin has high heat resistance and low hygroscopicity and does not liberate free acids or deform at high temp.
(JP3178222-B2)      The thermoelectric cell consists of a metal receptacle (10) with lithium negative electrode. An electric power generation part (10) is formed inside the receptacle. A heat insulating layer (9) is employed to heat the generation part warm. An ignition implement base (3) is sealed in the metal part suitably so that it lightens an ignition fluid (4). The base is fixed by a lid heat insulation part (2). The base is surrounded by an impulse absorption material (5). The base is resin moulded using the impulse power.    ADVANTAGE -   Cancels destroying of ignition fuel. Performs bearing upto 000G, in shock resistance. Supplies power to external circuit efficiently.
(JP2983135-B2)      The secondary battery consists of positive and negative electrodes isolated by a separator. The negative electrode consists of a conductive substrate into which negative electrode active material along with a macromolecular binder is filled up. Polytetra fluoroethylene contained in a binder and some in the range of 200000-1000000 molecules on an average are present in the binder.    ADVANTAGE -   Controls rise in inner pressure during over charging. Simplifies mfg process.
(JP2955177-B2)      The mfg method involves melting of an organic disulphide compound along with its derivative. Polyaniline is added to this molten compound and a uniform mixture is obtained. A metal oxide is distributed in this mixture. The mixture is thus solidified by removing a portion or the whole of the derivative of the disulphide compound.    ADVANTAGE -   Minimises polarization of compound mixture. Enables operativity at large current value.
(JP7296804-A)      An alkaline battery has a gel type negative electrode comprising a Zn alloy powder, a gelling agent and an alkaline electrolyte. The gelling agent comprises a combination of (a) a crosslinked polyacrylate water-absorbing polymer having a dispersion viscosity as a 0.5 wt.% aq. soln. at 25 deg.C of at least 15,000 cps and a particle size of 0.1-0.9 mm, (b) a branched polyacrylic acid or salt thereof having a dispersion viscosity as a 0.5 wt.% aq. soln. at 25 deg.C of at least 15,000 cps and a particle size of 0.1 mm or less, and (c) a granular crosslinked and branched polyacrylic acid or salt thereof having a dispersion viscosity as a 0.5 wt.% aq. soln. at 25 deg.C of at least 15,000 cps and a particle size of 0.1-0.9 mm.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   The alkaline battery is used for heavy duty purposes and can withstand strong vibration and shock applied for a long period while the battery is being discharged.    (EP678927-B1)      An alkaline battery has a gel type negative electrode comprising a zinc alloy powder, a gelling agent and an alkaline electrolyte. The gelling agent comprises a combination of (I) a crosslinked polyacrylate water-absorbing polymer having a dispersion viscosity as a 0.5 wt.% aq. soln. at 25C of at least 15000 cps and a particle size of 0.1-0.9 mm., (b) a branched polyacrylic acid or salt thereof having a dispersion viscosity as a 0.5 wt.% aqs. soln. at 25C of at least 15000 cps and a particle size of 0.1 mm or less, and (c) a granular crosslinked and branched polyacrylic acid or salt thereof having a dispersion viscosity as a 0.5 wt.% aq. soln. at 25C of at least 15000 cps and a particle size of 0.1-0.9 mm.    ADV&gt;    USE/ADVANTAGE -   The alkaline battery is used for heavy duty purposes and can withstand strong vibration and shock applied for a long period while the battery is being discharged.
(EP678714-B1)      Solar energy non-evacuated CPC type collector for heating fluids up to 120C comprises a rectangular box (1) of smaller height than the width and length. The top (2) is formed of a transparent sheet whose frame is formed by a rigid profile sealed by a gasket of resilient material. Inside the box is a plate (7) of rigid insulating material, pref. of polyurethane, contacting the inside of the bottom of the box, the bottom pref. being of PVC. The top surface of the material is covered by a reflecting material (7) having several troughs (8, 8') between two parallel planes spread apart by a distance of H or H' with the lower plane contained in the plate. The upper plane is defined by lines that form the top of the troughs, and the shape is such that the left part is a mirror image of the right part and the left part goes through one or more arcs or parabola and of circumference followed by an arc of circumference.    ADVANTAGE -   Losses by convection are reduced.
(JP9511101-W)      Photovoltaic devices are mfd. by: interconnecting an array of solar cells; placing the array on a transparent plastic sheet and thermally bonding it to the sheet without curing the sheet and at a sub-atmos. pressure; cooling and transporting (shipping) to a mfg. facility; placing the resulting subassembly on a substrate or superstrate support; and curing the plastic sheet while bonding it to the support.    Pref. plastic sheet is ethylene vinyl acetate, polyvinyl butyral, PMMA, ethylene methacrylic acid or silicone rubber. Thermal bonding is carried out at 90-120 deg. C and the curing is carried out at 135-140 deg. C. The sheet may be coated with a moisture resistant layer, pref. PVF or PE. The support is made of Al, Nb, Ti, Cr, Bi, Sb, Fe or steel. The solar cells are poly or mono-Si devices or may be amorphous Si junction devices with an i-layer of Si:H, Si:C or Si:H:C. The mfg. facility is a glass plant with the support made of glass; or an automobile plant with the support formed of curved glass.    USE -   Esp. as a solar panel for vehicles, buildings etc.    ADVANTAGE -   High quality array is mfd. in a low-cost and efficient manner.
(EP676818-B1)      The casing(1) is made from a polyurethane foam insulating material, and has a cover(2) also made from an insulating material which is fixed to the casing by two clips(3). The cover is fitted with two thermoplastic material plugs(4) which have holes in them to permit passage of the battery connections. The protective casing is place in a metal frame which can be fixed to the chassis of a vehicle.    USE/ADVANTAGES -   Designed to prevent protect batteries against temperature variations, cold, heat and humidity.
(JP3132281-B2)      The non-aq. electrolyte secondary battery has a number of plates (4) inside a battery case (1). The battery case is sealed with a sealing board (2) and insulated at the top. The battery is provided with a positive electrode which is made of lithium oxide and a negative electrode made of carbon material which carry out occlusion and discharge of lithium ion.    The battery is then filled with an organic non-aq. electrolyte. A mixt. of organic solvent and solid state macromolecule electrolyte is applied at the end of the negative electrode. The gas generated inside the carbon material during charging time is controlled by the transmission of lithium ion.    ADVANTAGE -   Controls gas generation during charging of battery. Prevents leakage of electrolyte and reduction in cycle lifetime. Enables to achieve high energy density and high capacitance.
(JP9510391-W)      Coating an ion-contg. polymer onto a selected substrate comprises (a) contacting the substrate with a colloidal dispersion or soln. of the polymer; and (b) contacting the dispersion or soln.-wetted the substrate, without an intermediate drying step, with a soln. of a salt or of a strongly ionising acid at sufficient concn. to cause an adherent coating of the polymer to form on the substrate.    USE -   The ionomeric coating is useful as a transition surface between the materials whose surfaces would otherwise form a high energy interface, e.g. as an alternative to corona discharge or corrosive chemical treatment and partic. for coating PTFE fibres and/or powders to make them water-wettable for use in non-asbestos diaphragms for chlor-alkali cells.    ADVANTAGE -   The converse coatings are thin, of uniform thickness and durable enough to be rinsed in water but removable by mechanical abrasion.    (CN1146168-A)      Coating an ion-contg. polymer onto a selected substrate comprises (a) contacting the substrate with a colloidal dispersion or soln. of the polymer; and (b) contacting the dispersion or soln.-wetted the substrate, without an intermediate drying step, with a soln. of a salt or of a strongly ionising acid at sufficient concn. to cause an adherent coating of the polymer to form on the substrate.    USE -   The ionomeric coating is useful as a transition surface between the materials whose surfaces would otherwise form a high energy interface, e.g. as an alternative to corona discharge or corrosive chemical treatment and partic. for coating PTFE fibres and/or powders to make them water-wettable for use in non-asbestos diaphragms for chlor-alkali cells.    ADVANTAGE -   The converse coatings are thin, of uniform thickness and durable enough to be rinsed in water but removable by mechanical abrasion.
(JP8512147-W)      A laser beam method of furnishing a substrate (1) with a patterned electrode film (5) comprises forming a stack by providing a layer of assistant material (3) and an overlaying layer of electrode material (5). The stack is locally laser-irradiated in a desired pattern to heat the assistant material to decomposition, when the locally overlying material is caused to detach.    Also claimed are: (i) a substrate furnished with a patterned film of electrode by the method above, and (ii) a liq. crystal display device comprising a substrate as above.    USE -   For forming patterned electrode film for L.C. and E.L. displays and solar panels.    ADVANTAGE -   A relatively low laser fluence is needed, etching definition is high, and there is a low risk of deposition of debris.
(DE4405863-C2)      A set of plates for a lead-acid accumulator includes positive (8) and negative plates (9) separated by a layer (1) folded in zigzag fashion. The whole set is compressed together. On the end plates of the set, the separator wraps around by 10 to 30 %, but preferably 15%. This amounts to about 20 mm. The depth of this overlap is at least twice the plate thickness.    Suitable material for the separator is polythene. The compression is done during manufacture by rollers.    ADVANTAGE -   Allows automated battery mfr. on a production line.
(US5977932-A)      A self-deploying helical structure comprises resilient helical strips (44) with a top and bottom ring (46,48) attached to opposite ends of each strip. There is pref. at least one intermediate ring (50) attached to the strips, and the structure is rolled into a coil. The strips are pref. made of S-glass/PEEK and a conductive copper layer (54) is bonded to one or more strips, each strip having a reflective part.    USE -   E.g. for space applications.    ADVANTAGE -   Provides a reliably self-deploying antenna using energy stored when the structure is collapsed.
(JP7237258-A)      Process for preparing an electrolyte film for lithium/polymeric electrolyte batteries, by extrusion for a polymer and a Li salt suitable for use in such electrolytes in the presence of ultrafine metal oxide powders with a particle size of 7-40 nm, which inhibit the formation of solid clumps in the powder mixt. to be extruded and thus facilitates the introduction of the mixt. into the extruder.    USE -   For prodn. of extruded polymeric electrolyte films for Li batteries.    ADVANTAGE -   The fine oxide powder inhibits the formation of solid clumps in the mixt., facilitates the feed of the mix into the extruder and gives very homogeneous extruded electrolyte films.
(JP7254431-A)      In a battery with an aq. alkaline electrolyte, one or more nickel hydroxide-contg. cathodes and an oxygen recombination system including at least one recombination electrode with (partially) hydrophobic large surface area opposite faces, of which the first face is joined to the anode(s), the novelty is that the recombination electrode is associated with a structure providing a thin incompressible space in contact with its second face to allow oxygen access throughout the battery service life.    ADVANTAGE -   The battery (esp. storage battery) has high energy density, operates at low pressure, is maintenance-free and maintains its performance throughout its service life.    (EP666608-B1)      In a battery with an aq. alkaline electrolyte, one or more nickel hydroxide-contg. cathodes and an oxygen recombination system including at least one recombination electrode with (partially) hydrophobic large surface area opposite faces, of which the first face is joined to the anode(s), the novelty is that the recombination electrode is associated with a structure providing a thin incompressible space in contact with its second face to allow oxygen access throughout the battery service life.    ADVANTAGE -   The battery (esp. storage battery) has high energy density, operates at low pressure, is maintenance-free and maintains its performance throughout its service life.
(JP7211932-A)      The solar cell module (101) comprises a surface cover of a waterproof transparent film (108) e.g. of PTFE over a flexible solar cell e.g. amorphous Si, formed on a stainless steel substrate. A lamination having a back reinforcement member (109) e.g. a Zn-coated steel plate, and a filler e.g. of Si resin is superposed on the non-light receiving side of the solar cell with an opening corresponding to a pierced portion for accommodating a fixing means of the solar cell module.    USE -   Passive conversion of solar energy to electrical energy.    ADVANTAGE -   Can be nailed to existing roof, stable over 20 years.    (US5849107-A)      The solar cell module (101) comprises a surface cover member e.g. a waterproof transparent film (108) e.g. of polyethylene tetrafluoroethylene, polyethylene trifluoride, polyvinyl trifluoride etc. over a flexible solar cell e.g. a non single crystal semiconductor e.g. amorphous silicon formed on a stainless steel substrate, a lamination having a back reinforcement member (109) e.g. a zinc coated steel plate and a filler e.g. of silicon resin, butyryl resin, acrylic resin etc. are larger than the solar cell and is superposed on the non light receiving side of the solar cell with an opening corresponding to a pierced portion for accommodating a fixing means of the solar cell module.    USE -   Passive conversion of solar energy to electrical energy.    ADVANTAGE -   Can be nailed to existing roof, stable over 20 years.
(WO9605624-A1)      An electrolytic cell (10) comprises an anode (12) having an interface, a cathode (14) and an electrolyte (16). A surface layer (18) is applied to the interface of the anode (12). The surface layer (18) has means for enabling transfer of ions from the anode (12) to the electrolyte (16) and back into contact with the anode. The surface layer (18) becomes electronically conductive upon formation of dendritic growth on the interface.    USE -   Used in a rechargeable battery. The electronic conductivity suppresses the dendritic growth, resulting in a substantially uniform distribution of metal ions back onto the anode during electrodeposition.    ADVANTAGE -   The suppression of dendritic growth substantially increases the cycle life of the cell (10).    (JP11503859-W)      An electrolytic cell (10) comprises an anode (12) having an interface, a cathode (14) and an electrolyte (16). A surface layer (18) is applied to the interface of the anode (12). The surface layer (18) has means for enabling transfer of ions from the anode (12) to the electrolyte (16) and back into contact with the anode. The surface layer (18) becomes electronically conductive upon formation of dendritic growth on the interface.    USE -   Used in a rechargeable battery. The electronic conductivity suppresses the dendritic growth, resulting in a substantially uniform distribution of metal ions back onto the anode during electrodeposition.    ADVANTAGE -   The suppression of dendritic growth substantially increases the cycle life of the cell (10).
(FR2715508-A1)      In a high capacity primary or secondary cell, the active material of at least one of the electrodes is selected from transition metal oxides or their (partially) lithiated forms, such as TiO2, Nb2O5, HfO2, MnO2, LiyNiO2, LiyCo2, Ldy(NiCo)O2, or LiyMn2O4, in the form of electrically interconnected nanocrystalline particles of 1-250 nm. size. Pref. the particles are mixed with graphite and a binder, e.g. ethylene-propylene-diene monomer or PTFE, and compressed to form the electrode.    ADVANTAGE -   The cell has high energy storage capacity.    (JP7254411-A)      In a high capacity primary or secondary cell, the active material of at least one of the electrodes is selected from transition metal oxides or their (partially) lithiated forms, such as TiO2, Nb2O5, HfO2, MnO2, LiyNiO2, LiyCo2, Ldy(NiCo)O2, or LiyMn2O4, in the form of electrically interconnected nanocrystalline particles of 1-250 nm. size. Pref. the particles are mixed with graphite and a binder, e.g. ethylene-propylene-diene monomer or PTFE, and compressed to form the electrode.    ADVANTAGE -   The cell has high energy storage capacity.    (EP664570-B1)      In a high capacity primary or secondary cell, the active material of at least one of the electrodes is selected from transition metal oxides or their (partially) lithiated forms, such as TiO2, Nb2O5, HfO2, MnO2, LiyNiO2, LiyCo2, Ldy(NiCo)O2, or LiyMn2O4, in the form of electrically interconnected nanocrystalline particles of 1-250 nm. size. Pref. the particles are mixed with graphite and a binder, e.g. ethylene-propylene-diene monomer or PTFE, and compressed to form the electrode.    ADVANTAGE -   The cell has high energy storage capacity.
(JP7201331-A)      A valve-regulated lead-acid battery comprises an electrolyte including sulphuric acid within a battery jar (4), a positive plate including collector filled with positive active material (1), and a negative plate (2) with collector and negative active material including a conductive additive. A theoretical capacity of the negative material is less than that of the positive, and the negative active material contains 0.5-7.5 wt.% of conductive additive.    USE -   As valve-regulated lead-acid batteries for electric vehicles.    ADVANTAGE -   Battery wt. is decreased, specific energy and power are enhanced, and life performance is increased.    (JP3185508-B2)      A valve-regulated lead-acid battery comprises an electrolyte including sulphuric acid within a battery jar (4), a positive plate including collector filled with positive active material (1), and a negative plate (2) with collector and negative active material including a conductive additive. A theoretical capacity of the negative material is less than that of the positive, and the negative active material contains 0.5-7.5 wt.% of conductive additive.    USE -   As valve-regulated lead-acid batteries for electric vehicles.    ADVANTAGE -   Battery wt. is decreased, specific energy and power are enhanced, and life performance is increased.
(JP2923424-B2)      The electrolyte battery includes a negative electrode which is fabricated by heating a resin board contg. aromatic system polymer, at 650 deg centigrade. The atomic ratio of hydrogen and carbon atoms present in the substrate is in the range of 0.05 - 0.5. The atomic ratio of fluorine and carbon atoms is between 0.75 - 1.5.    X-ray diffraction measurement is performed on the negative electrode material. The strength ratio between the first and second peak in the diffraction grating is 0.3 or less where the diffraction angle for the first peak lies in the range of 17.5 - 18.    ADVANTAGE -   Improves battery capacity and charge-discharge cycle characteristics. Reduces weight of battery. Increases energy density.
(US5463179-A)      A single phase, solid, solvent-contg. electrolyte comprises (a) solid polymeric matrix; (b) an inorganic ion salt; and (c) a solvent. The solid polymeric matrix is obtd. by polymerizing or copolymerizing an organic monomer of formula (I); X and Y = independently S, NH or NR where R = 1-6C alkyl and n = integer of 3 to 18.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   The electrolytes are useful as batteries. They have increased conductivity.
(JP7296822-A)      Copolymers of ethylene oxide and/or propylene oxide and a substd. oxirane of formula (I) (in which the chain consists of units -CH2-CH2-O and/or units -CH2-CH(CH3)-O- and units -CH2-CHR1-O- in which R1 (same or different in each unit) = a radical CH(R3)=(C(R2)-X-O-(CH2)n- where R2 = CH3 or H, R3 = H, F, C6H5 or C6H5-CH=CH, X = an electron attracting gp. and n = 0-4).    USE -   For prepn. of solid electrolytes for batteries functioning with alkali metals e.g. Li or Na; also in prodn. of ionically conductive membranes for use in electrochromic devices, light modulating systems, etc..    ADVANTAGE -   The copolymers are crosslinkable by radical means and give solid electrolytes having good mechanical properties, good cationic conductivity and good chemical compatibility with the electrodes of batteries functioning with alkali metals.
(JP7206936-A)      Copolymers having in the chain units of ethylene oxide, units -O-CH2-CHR- in which R (same or different from one unit to another) is a substituent comprising a reactive function that is crosslinkable by radical means, and opt. units -O-CH2-CHR'- in which R' (same or different from one unit to another) is a substituent having no reactive function that is crosslinkable by radical means, having an excellent index of polymolecularity I = Mw/Mn and a statistical distribution of the different monomer units.    USE -   The copolymers are useful for prepn. of solid electrolytes for batteries functioning with alkali metals such as Li or Na.    ADVANTAGE -   The copolymers give solid electrolytes having good mechanical properties, good cationic conductivity and good chemical compatibility with the electrodes of batteries functioning with alkali metals.
(WO9516283-A1)      Battery has a body (350) with at least one anode and at least one cathode layer with terminals connected to them, the cathode terminal (301) being located at one corner of the body of the battery and the anode terminal (303) at the diagonally opposite corner. The battery is in the shape of a rectangular polyhedron with two main faces, the cathode terminal being located at, on or adjacent to one of the main faces and the anode terminal at, on or adjacent to the other. Each terminal is in the form of three plates, positioned so that the cathode and anode layers make electrical contact with the third plate in each group. The battery also has at least one layer of Mylar (RTM) between at least a portion of its anode layer and a portion of its cathode layer.    ADVANTAGE -   Greater storage capacity and energy density and reduced risk of short-circuiting.
(US5455999-A)      An electrochemical device (1) is made by: (a) admixing electrically conductive carbon with a non-aq. liq. solvent, a powdered active metal anode material, a soluble salt, and a gel former; (b) sheeting the anode mixt. into a thin electrode layer (10); (c) applying to a first side of this electrode layer a metal current collector; (d) applying to a second side of this electrode a first side of an electrolyte layer (20); (e) admixing an electrically conductive carbon with a non-aq. liq. solvent, a powdered active cathode material, a soluble salt and a gel-former; (f) sheeting the cathode mixt. into a second electrode layer (25); and (g) applying the second electrode layer onto a second side of the electrolyte layer.    USE -   In the mfr. of electrochemical devices for pulsed discharge applications e.g. in implantable medical devices.    ADVANTAGE -   The cells have long useful life, by using their primary Faradaic capacity to maintain an internal double layer charge at the voltage dictated by the chemistry of the Faradaic cell that may be discharged as required.
(WO9516285-A1)      A cathode for an electrolytic cell comprises:    (a) a solid matrix forming monomer;    (b) a cathodic material;    (c) an electroconductive material comprising a conducting polymer;    (d) a solvent; and    (e) a viscosifier.    Also claimed are:    (1) a solid cathode comprising a cured reaction prod. of the above compsn.; and    (2) an electrolytic ell comprising: (i) an anode contg. anodic material; (ii) a cathode comprising the above; and (iii) a solid, solvent-contg. electrolyte interposed between (i) and (ii).    USE -   The cathode is used in "solid batteries" contg. a solid electrolyte.    ADVANTAGE -   The cathode contains a conductive polymer as a replacement for carbon and has improved conductivity. Cell mfr. is improved because the electrode material is lightweight and readily cast into a film, which improves the mechanical properties of the cell, and laminate construction is improved through improved adherence.
(JP7240208-A)      The fabrication process commences by extrusion of an electrolyte film on a polymeric ionic conductor base, and electrode films on either side of the electrolyte film. The electrolyte and electrode films are extruded simultaneously. The electrodes are accessible from the principal face of the extruded film.    The extruded strip is then rolled into a shape that allows access to both surfaces. Anode and cathode contacts are made to the electrodes on the two faces. The faces are then metallised.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   For rechargeable battery. Electrochemical cell formed of polymeric ionic conductor electrolyte. Allows fabrication on industrial scale of polymeric electrolyte cells.
(JP3105137-B2)      Complex solid electrolyte comprises an inorganic salt, a cyclic carbonate ester-based organic solvent and a block-graft copolymer (degree of polymerisation at least 310) comprising a block chain A (degree of polymerisation at least 10) of a repeat unit of formula (1) and a block chain B (degree of polymerisation at least 300) of a repeat unit of formula (2), wherein ratio of blocks A/B is 1/30-30/1. In (1), R1= H, methyl or ethyl; R2= H or methyl; R3=alkyl, aryl, acyl, silyl or cyanoalkyl; n= 1-100. No ave mol wt of the graft chain of formula (2) = 45.4,400. In (2), R1= H, methyl or ethyl; M= -CH-CH2, -C(CH3)=CH2, -COOCH3 or -COOOC2H5, phenyl or substd phenyl. The cyclic carbonate ester-based solvent is ethylenecarbonate, propylenecarbonate, -butyrolactone or 2-methyl--butyrolactone.    USE -   Used in primary and secondary cells and electrochromic display elements.    ADVANTAGE -   Product can hold a large amt of non-aqueous electrolyte. It excels in Tg and mechanical strength. Product enables to prepared a thin and compact cell.
(TW249816-A)      A plasticizer which can increase conductivity of polymer electrolytes, in which the plasticizer is a polyether oligomer with halogenated ends which has the following formula: X-R1-(O-R1)n-X in which X is selected from halogenated group of fluorine, chlorine, bromine; R1 is a straight alkyl with 2 to 4 carbon atoms, and the degree of polymerization n is less than 250.
(JP7142084-A)      Fabricating a modular, recombinant lead acid battery comprises: providing a plurality of thermoplastic frames, including 2 frames which support electrochemically active plates, the frames being adapted to be stacked and welded together such that the plates are spaced apart from each other a predetermined distance; providing one or more separators, the separators having an uncompressed state, in which uncompressed state they have a thickness equal to or greater than the predetermined distance between plates, and a compressed state, the separators being provided in their compressed state; successively stacking the frames and separators such that a separator is disposed between adjacent plates in its compressed state; successively vibration welding the frames together while the separator is in its compressed state; the separator having a predetermined thickness in its compressed state effective to reduce abrasion of the separators by the plates during vibration welding and tending to assume its uncompressed state in the presence of an electrolyte such that the separator contacts the plates.    USE -   For fabricating modular lead acid storage batteries.    ADVANTAGE -   Use of vibrational welding provides reliable, faster and more economical fabrication separator damage during fabrication is avoided.
(DE4327114-A1)      Photovoltaic cell with controllable semiconductor properties has semiconducting multilayer or gradient coatings of metal oxide (I) on electroconductive substrate. (I) comprises oxide(s) of Ti, Zr, Sn, Pb, Al, Zn, Cd, In, V, Nb, Ta, Cr, Mo, W, Ca, Sr, Ba, Fe, Ru, Os, Y, La, Ce, Pr, Df, Eu, Dy and/or Yb. In the case of mix oxides or oxide mixts., a component present in a concn. less than 1 mole-% is regarded as dopant.    USE -   The cell is used for generating electrical energy from light, esp. as solar cell (claimed).    ADVANTAGE -   Oxide coatings can be produced on suitable substrates (opt. electroconductive and/or optically transparent) to give an optimum match of their chemical, structural and morphological parameters to the desired function, with exact reproducibility.
(JP7122770-A)      The photoelectric conversion device includes a photoelectric conversion element (101). The photoelectric conversion element includes a substrate, a photoelectric conversion layer with at least a pair of electrodes on the substrate, a transparent resin layer (102) and a transparent surface layer (103). The transparent resin layer comprises a fluorine-containing polymer resin and is disposed between the photoelectric conversion element and the transparent surface layer. The fluorine-containing polymer resin has a fluorine content of 20 wt.% to 40 wt.% and is crosslinked with peroxide.    ADVANTAGE -   Has improved surface protective member which maintains photoelectric conversion element in desirable state, without deterioration due to moisture invasion even upon repeated use over long time.
NOVELTY - A non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery comprises an anode, negative electrode and a non-aqueous electrolyte. The anode has a mixture of positive electrode active material and 1-15 weight% (wt.%) of a positive electrode binder. The binder is cross-linked N-methoxy methylated nylon.    USE -   For portable and cordless electronic devices.    ADVANTAGE -   The non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery has excellent cycle characteristic.
(JP7022637-A)      A solar cell module wherein at least the light receiving surface of the photovoltaic element is coated with a filler contg. a vinyl fluoride copolymer and acrylic resin.    USE -   This solar cell module can be used outdoors for a prolonged period.    ADVANTAGE -   This module has excellent weatherability, heat-resistance, scratch-resistance and adhesivity to the photovoltaic element. It can maintain a desired photoelectric conversion for a prolonged period by minimising deterioration caused by moisture permeation.    (US5718772-A)      A solar cell module wherein at least the light receiving surface of the photovoltaic element is coated with a filler contg. a vinyl fluoride copolymer and acrylic resin.    USE -   This solar cell module can be used outdoors for a prolonged period.    ADVANTAGE -   This module has excellent weatherability, heat-resistance, scratch-resistance and adhesivity to the photovoltaic element. It can maintain a desired photoelectric conversion for a prolonged period by minimising deterioration caused by moisture permeation.
(JP3146758-B2)      The cell (1) consists of a fuel electrode (2A) and an oxidising agent electrode (2B) on either side of an electrolyte layer (7C). The electrolyte is made out of a polymeric membrane that has hydrogen ion conductivity. The electrodes are arranged in a rectangular shape, with the corners (74) rounded off to radius R. The electrolyte membrane extends over the electrode perimeter uniformly by a width W.    ADVANTAGE -   The stress concn. is reduces at the corners of the electrode over electrolyte membrane thereby helping to reduce damage to the electrolyte membrane.
(JP3125120-B2)      The device consists of an X-ray generating means (21). The X-rays generated are irradiated on a battery (20). The scanned X-ray is detected by an X-ray detector (23). The active material distribution in the battery is obtd. from the detection result. The X-ray generating means and X-ray detector are controlled by a control device (24). The detected signal from the X-ray detector is input into an image reproduction apparatus (25) which reproduces the tomogram for the battery. The quality of the battery is judged from the active material distribution by a judgment apparatus (26).    ADVANTAGE -   Obtains active material distribution of battery with disassembling battery. Distinguishes defective battery from good battery. Estimates battery characteristics such as charging and discharging characteristics.
(JP3141619-B2)      The electrical setting unit (1) for solid state polymer electrolyte type fuel cell (2) consists of an oxidising gas supply system which is composed of an air compressor (42), humidification equipment (43) and a cooler (44). The air (41A) from a source (41) is supplied to the humidification equipment and humidified by cooling water (51A). The air is pressurised in air compressor and cooled by cooler to operation temperature of fuel cell and supplied to an oxidising agent electrode (22) of the cell. The fuel cell generates the DC power in response to supply of fuel gas and oxidising agent gas.    ADVANTAGE -   High electrical characteristics.
(EP663701-B1)      A battery pack for an electric vehicle comprises individual batteries ganged together and nesting in an underlying support tray (8) having intersecting upstanding walls (16) and battery receiving defining pockets (20), interlock means engaging the ends of the batteries for preventing relative movement therebetween, a perimetrical flange (26) on the tray extending outboard of the walls, a housing (10) with a ceiling, side walls and a peripheral flange overlying the peripheral flange of the tray enclosing the battery pack to form a rigid structure immobilizing the batteries.    USE -   Housing batteries of an electric vehicle.    ADVANTAGE -   Seals and supports the batteries.
(US5384213-A)      In a method of mfr. of a solid electrolyte for batteries, etc., protective sheeting, pref. polyester sheeting is passed between spools (1,2) being directed by rollers (3,4) along a planar path, below which electrode sheeting passes, being coated by a roller (8) with solvate electrolyte precursor mixture. Comprising a solid matrix-forming monomer or partial polymer, pref. acrylate or methacrylate, in a solvent, with component with b.pt. not higher than 100 deg.C, pref dimethoxy ethane, 2-methyltetrafuran, methyl formula or 1,3-dioxolane. The precursor is cured by irradiation (5) and spooled.    ADVANTAGE -   Solvent does not affect low temp. performance of electrolyte.
(US5411820-A)      Solid, single phase, solvent contg. electrolyte comprises a solid polymeric matrix and a solvent comprising a 10:1-1:4 (w/w) mixt. of an organic carbonate and a glyme, and an ionically conducting ion salt deriv. comprising: (a) an alkylene glycol (ether) deriv. of formula RO(R10)pM (I) or MO(R10)pM (II); and (b) an ion sulphonate salt of formula RO(R10)p(CH2)lSO3M (III) or MSO3(CH2)sO(R10)p(CH2)rSO3M (IV) or (c) mixts. of (a) and (b).    In the formulae, R is 1-6C alkyl, 7-12C alkylphenyl or phenyl opt. substd. with 1-3 of 1-4C alkyl, 1-4C alkoxy, Cl or Br; R1 is (CR3R4)q; R3 and R4 are each H or 1-4C alkyl; q is 1-6; M is Li, Na, K or Mg ion; p is 2-6, and r and s are each 1-6.    Pref. the glyme is triglyme and the wt. ratio of organic carbonate to triglyme is 4:1.    USE -   Used in electrolytic cells to increase the cumulative capacity.
(JP7065843-A)      Galvanic cells comprise: a positive electrode; a negative electrode made of an alkali metal or an alkali metal cpd.; and an organic electrolytic soln. contg. an electrolyte (I) which is an organic metal salt comprising a Group IIIb-Vb atom forming an anion centre to which an electron-attracting organic gp. is bonded through an O atom. Also claimed is a cell as above in which the electrolyte (II) is a organic metal salt comprising a counter cation and an atom forming an anion centre, where the molar ratio of the counter cation to the anion centre atom is more than 1.    ADVANTAGE -   The cells have better storage stability than similar cells in which the electrolyte is LiB(Ph)4 or LiBF4.
(JP7142756-A)      The module manufacturing method is applied to a solar cell (102) surrounded by a filling material (105). Two covering films (106, 104) with one on the upper surface of filling material and another on its back side are formed. Both the covering films are thermally bonded.    ADVANTAGE -   Improves damp proof nature of module. Prevents reduction in conversion efficiency of battery. Improves reliability for long period.    (US5707459-A)      A solar cell module comprises a solar cell encapsulated through a filler between a surface protective layer and a back face protective layer. The surface protective layer is welded with the back face protective layer by way of heat fusion to provide a heat fused portion at at least a side end portion of the solar cell module.    USE -   For power generation.    ADVANTAGE -   Excellent moisture resistance; reliable and stable operation over long periods even in adverse conditions of temp. and humidity.    (EP631328-B1)      A solar cell module comprises a solar cell encapsulated through a filler between a surface protective layer and a back face protective layer. The surface protective layer is welded with the back face protective layer by way of heat fusion to provide a heat fused portion at at least a side end portion of the solar cell module.    USE -   For power generation.    ADVANTAGE -   Excellent moisture resistance; reliable and stable operation over long periods even in adverse conditions of temp. and humidity.
(JP6350117-A)      Battery formation includes deposition of filling material (102) over an insulation layer (101). A photovoltaic element layer (103), a 2nd filling material layer (104), a hard film (105) and a top layer formed using 3-fluorochloroethylene-vinyl copolymer (106) are layered one over the other and installed on the 1st filling material. Opto-electrical conversion is performed by the active layer and transparent electroconductive layer. The top face provides face for light incidence. A paste is used to fix the photovoltaic element to the filling materials to form the required layers.    ADVANTAGE -   Improved stress withstanding capacity of solar battery. Improves scratch-proof quality of battery and safety factor. Avoid deterioration of photovoltaic parts by UV rays.
NOVELTY - An oxidizing-agent supplying-flow board (40) comprises an oxidizing-agent flow path (39) whose width is decreased gradually along down-stream flow-path region, to emit water content produced by reaction of fuel and oxidizing agent, from cathode pole at favorable flow rate.    USE - Solid-polymer-electrolyte fuel cell (SPFC).    ADVANTAGE - Stable cell reaction is maintained.
(JP8045515-A)      Cooler assembly (2) used in fuel cell stack has tubular conduit (18) contg. a flowing stream of coolant fluid and a plate (20) formed from a graphite flake and polymer binder mixt.surrounding the conduit.    USE -   The cooler assembly is used in a phosphoric acid fuel cell stack.    ADVANTAGE -   The coolant plate has enhanced heat transfer characteristics, is non-porous, and is resistant to thermally-induced stresses i.e. it is not impaired by thermal expansion and contraction of stack components. It resists degradation and maintains optimum operating characteristics during extended stack operation.    (EP683536-B1)      Cooler assembly (2) used in fuel cell stack has tubular conduit (18) contg. a flowing stream of coolant fluid and a plate (20) formed from a graphite flake and polymer binder mixt.surrounding the conduit.    USE -   The cooler assembly is used in a phosphoric acid fuel cell stack.    ADVANTAGE -   The coolant plate has enhanced heat transfer characteristics, is non-porous, and is resistant to thermally-induced stresses i.e. it is not impaired by thermal expansion and contraction of stack components. It resists degradation and maintains optimum operating characteristics during extended stack operation.    (US6050331-A)      Cooler assembly (2) used in fuel cell stack has tubular conduit (18) contg. a flowing stream of coolant fluid and a plate (20) formed from a graphite flake and polymer binder mixt.surrounding the conduit.    USE -   The cooler assembly is used in a phosphoric acid fuel cell stack.    ADVANTAGE -   The coolant plate has enhanced heat transfer characteristics, is non-porous, and is resistant to thermally-induced stresses i.e. it is not impaired by thermal expansion and contraction of stack components. It resists degradation and maintains optimum operating characteristics during extended stack operation.
(JP2746108-B2)      Reformer comprises combustion appts. (7) of fuel gas, combustion space (8) provided at the flame release direction of the combustion appts., cylindrical radiation tube (21) placed around the combustion space and triple tube placed at the outside of radiation tube concentrically. The inner tube of triple tube and the end of combustion space side of its outer tube are connected with an end cap. The first ring-shaped space is formed between the inner tube and middle tube of triple tube to place catalyst and the second ring-shaped space is formed between the middle tube and outer tube and connected to the first ring-shaped space at the end cap connection part to form a reaction tube (3) by the first and second ring-shaped spaces. The third ring-shaped space connected to the combustion space is formed between the radiation tube and reaction tube.    USE -   To produce hydrogen-enriched gas used as fuel gas of fuel cells by adding steam to hydrocarbons.    ADVANTAGE -   To miniaturise the reformers to produce hydrogen-enriched gas.
(JP3042751-B2)      Start-up of heat-exchanger type reformers of fuel cells with heat-supplying appts. to feed gases for heating and combustion is claimed, in that air ratios higher than those at normal operations are employed in the heat-supplying appts. at the initial stage of the start-up process.    USE -   Used to rapidly heat heat-exchanger type reformers to given temps. in the start-up process.    ADVANTAGE -   The catalyst tubes and input and output systems of reformers can be quickly heated.
(JP2700047-B2)      The catalyser holder has a desulphurisation device which desulphurises original fuel containing carbon hydrogen system. A reaction pipe containing catalyser layer is heated with a heat medium object. A fuel modifier changes steam of original fuel into gas which is rich in hydrogen. A carbon-monoxide transformer transforms carbon-monoxide contained by the gas and is supplied to a fuel battery. The catalyser holder maintains the nature of the catalytic action of catalyser in the reaction pipe of the fuel battery. A recycling system supplies a part of the quality gas from the carbon-monoxide transformer to desulphurisation device, through an additional rates of flow control valve.    An entrance temperature detector detects the temperature of the catalyser layer at the entrance of the reaction pipe. A second temperature detector provided near the entrance detects catalyser layer temperature at predetermined position. A temperature difference calculator computes the temperature difference of both the temperature detectors. A controller controls flow valve of recycling system to secure minimum rates of flow of quality gas required for additional desulphurisation.    ADVANTAGE -   Prevents carbon deposition. Maintains nature of catalytic action effectively. Supplies good quality gas to fuel battery for long time.
(US6168772-B1)      Catalysts for oxidising reformed gases are characterised by consisting of catalysts loaded on supports which have pores on a molecular-size level. Also claimed is oxidation of carbon monoxide contained in reformed gases, in which a reformed gas containing mainly hydrogen and a small amount of carbon monoxide is brought into contact with a catalyst for oxidising reformed gases consisting of a catalyst loaded on a support which has pores on a molecular-size level while oxygen gas is being sent to the reformed gas, so as to oxidise selectively the carbon monoxide.    USE -   The catalysts obtained can be used to oxidise carbon monoxides contained in reformed gases which are used as fuels for fuel cells and mainly contain hydrogen.    ADVANTAGE -   Carbon monoxide contained in reformed gases in a small amount can be oxidised selectively. Poisoning of electrode catalysts can be prevented.
(JP2794081-B2)      The fuel gas supply makes the fuel to flow out from a pipe (1) of modifier in battery for generating power. The fuel gas is obtained by burning a liquid fuel. The burning process of the liquid fuel is carried out in the pipe by heating the pipe to a predetermined temperature. The temperature is maintained at the pipe until all the liquid fuel gets evaporated. The temperature is maintained by a heater wire (2) and a control device (7).    The heater is twisted around the outer circumference of the pipe. A temperature detector (6) is placed at the outer surface of the pipe. The predetermined temperature at which the fuel gas is extracted from the fuel is set previously in the detector. The control device (7) controls the heating process by controlling an ON/OFF switch of the heater element according to the output of the temperature detector.    ADVANTAGE -   Prevents liquefaction of fuel gas even when aperture area of flow control valve is increased.
(JP2837625-B2)      The fuel cell is provided with an anode (2) and a cathode (4). An electrolyte board (3) is placed inbetween the two electrodes. A separator (1) is placed at top and bottom portion of the unit cell. Fuel gas (7) is supplied through the fuel gas flow path (5). An oxidising agent gas (8) is supplied through the oxidising gas flow path. A rate of flow of regulating valve controls the flow rate by controlling the valve according to the temperature developed inside the battery.    The flow regulating valve is installed in both slots (50, 60). The regulating valve arranged in the fuel gas flow path closes the valve, when temperature rises to an abnormal value and flows in slot (50). Similarly, the flow regulating valve (69) installed in the oxidising agent gas flow path opens the valve for full flow, when temperature increases to an abnormal value. The oxidising agent gas flows into slot (60).    ADVANTAGE -   Maintains homogeneity in temperature distribution. Equalises current density distribution and temperature distribution. Controls thermal expansion of cell. Decreases corrosion of cell member. Decreases evaporation of electrolyte.
(JP2920903-B2)      Film contg. elements of gp. 1B, 3B and 6B is plated on surface of electroconductive film of a substrate. The film is converted to an alloy film of gp. 1B-3B-6B by heat treatment. Water and gas contained in the film are removed before the heat treatment.    USE -   The method is suitable for prodn. of cpd. semiconductor solar cells.    ADVANTAGE -   Improved prodn. yield and cost, since no exfoliation of the alloy film occurs.
(JP7297429-A)      The solar battery cell consists of a p type semiconductor substrate (1). A first n type layer (2a) when a p type layer, are formed on either main side surfaces of the substrate. The multiple second n type layers (2b-2d) are formed on the side connecting the first and the second main sides of the substrate. The p type layer has impurity density higher than that of substrate. The second n type layer has impurity density lower than that of first n type layer.    ADVANTAGE -   Prevents accidents such as short circuit destructions and fire by normal heat emission. Reduces mfg cost.
(JP7302925-A)      A light-transmissive resin-sealed semiconductor comprises a photoelectric transducer with an incident light-side surface covering comprising a cross-linked multi-component copolymer comprising mainly vinylidene fluoride (VDF) and hexafluoropropylene (HFP).    Processes for producing the device are also claimed .    USE -   In prodn. of (flexible) solar cells.    ADVANTAGE -   Copolymer used filler layer cover device provides excellent weather and heat resistance and fire retardancy, and provides flexibility for protection of device and excellent adhesion between device and the outermost surface covering layer.
(JP7297439-A)      The solar cell module includes a photovoltaic element, a transparent resin filler layer, a transparent surface layer and a reinforcing member. The reinforcing member is positioned on the rear of the element. The surface layer includes a film composed of a fluororesin which has a high fluorine content. The resin contains an ultraviolet absorber.    The surface protective layer has a light transmittance of 0.8 or less in a relative value to a resin contg. no ultraviolet absorber. The film has a deformation temp. of 70 deg.C or above at a pressure of 4.6 kg/cm2.    ADVANTAGE -   Cell has improved ultraviolet screening due to coating, is weather resistant, has reduced degradation due to light and efficient conversion.
(JP8018086-A)      The module includes an electroconductive substrate and a photoactive semiconductor layer which acts as a photovoltaic element with a transparent surface coating on the light introducing side. The coating layer contains alkylated tertiary amine compound and also includes a filler and an outermost layer.    The surface layer is formed of a fluororesin and contains an inorganic or polymeric ultraviolet light absorber. The filler is made from an ethylene type copolymer. The photovoltaic element has a shunt resistance between 2000 and 200000 Ohms.cm2.    ADVANTAGE -   Has high weatherability and high heat resistance. Protected from external impact. Clean due to avoiding use of fossil fuel. Safe. Easy to handle. Improved conversion efficiency.
(JP7302926-A)      Transparent resin sealed semiconductor is sealed at a light-incident face of a photoelectric transducer with a resin layer of a copolymer of ethylene and an unsatd. fatty acid ester. A pref. transducer has a conductive substrate, active layer pref. amorphous Si, and a transparent electrode.    USE -   Esp. with solar cell (module).    ADVANTAGE -   Resin has high heat resistance and low hygroscopicity and does not liberate free acids or deform at high temp.
(DE4413215-C2)      Solar module comprises: (a) an Al substrate (1); (b) an electrically insulating oxide layer (2); (c) a back electrode layer (3, 5, 6); (d) an active semiconductor layer (7) having a diode structure; and (e) a front electrode (8) made of a transparent conducting oxide (TCO). The module is structured into integrated single solar cells connected in series and is made as a facade element.    Also claimed is a process for producing electrode surfaces (6) electrically sepd. from each other on an electrically conducting substrate (1).    USE -   As a thin layer solar module.
(JP3108269-B2)      A system equipped with a reformer (A) and a convertor (B). (B) is installed so as to cover the outer surface of (A).    USE -   Used for producing fuel gas for fuel cells.    ADVANTAGE -   The system is able to decrease heat loss.
(JP3054533-B2)      Fuel cell system comprises a fuel cell having a hydrogen electrode and oxygen electrode, vaporiser to vaporise fuel gas, and reformer having a burner to heat the vaporiser and catalyst layer using liq. fuel and hydrogen electrode exhaust gas and catalyst layer to reform vaporised fuel gas, and the burner comprises a burner body to vaporise methanol supplied as liq. fuel, wing for dispersing methanol, heater and hydrogen electrode exhaust gas passage placed above the burner body to supply exhaust gas of hydrogen electrode. Vaporised methanol is combusted by the first air supplied from the outside to the inside of burner body and remaining methanol and hydrogen electrode exhaust gas are combusted by the second air supplied at the upper part of burner body.    USE -   Used to improve burners used in reformers of fuel cell system.    ADVANTAGE -   To combust liq. fuel nearly completely to discharge clean exhaust gas from the fuel cell system.
(JP3110237-B2)      The mfg method involves forming an interconnector (22) which connects the cells electrically. A pipe (21) subjected to metallization, is provided on which the interconnector is installed. On the same pipe, a fuel pole (23) and electrolyte (24) are provided.    Film formation on the fuel pole and the electrolyte part, is carried out. Finally, heat treatment of the above arrangement, is carried out.    ADVANTAGE -   Reduces number of steps involved in process.
(JP7312439-A)      Solar cell has a metal layer, metal oxide, polycrystalline semiconductor layers built successively on a substrate. Also claimed is a method of making the solar cell by depositing the layers in sequence followed by a cap layer and fusing the semiconductor layer by heating from above the cap layer to form a polycrystalline layer end then removing the cap layer.    ADVANTAGE -   Cheap solar cells with large crystal semiconductor for good energy conversion.
(JP62062193-A)      A catalyst layer is placed inside an inner pipe. Two outer annular pipes are provided. A mixt. of steam and hydrocarbon gas is circulated. A net-like object is a source of radiation heat transfer is placed between the pipes.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   Used in steam reforming of hydrocarbon gas. Heat-transfer efficiency is improved resulting in decreased prodn. costs.
(DE4408962-C2)       CO is removed from a methanol/water vapour reforming process gas by selective contact induced carbonisation. The CO is converted into C and CO2via the Boudouard Equilibrium. Also claimed is a suitable apparatus which has, in addition to the reforming reactor (1) at least 2 carbonisation reactors (2,3). Whilst one reactor is removing CO, the other which is in parallel, is disconnected, the catalyst being regenerated by removing carbon from it.    USE -    To remove the CO impurity from H2 produced by the CH3 OH/H2O reforming process.    ADVANTAGE -    Removal of CO impurities makes the H2suitable for feeding to the anode of a PEM fuel cell that could be used to power a vehicle.
(JP2732352-B2)      Prodn. of the thin film of the chalcopyrite cpd. CuInSe2, comprises: (a) providing raw materials of Cu, In, Se in a closed container having injection nozzles, respectively; (b) injecting each material from the respective nozzles in vacuum; (c) forming a lump atomic group in which the atmos of the raw materials are gently bound by supercooling action owing to adiabatic expansion in the vacuum; (d) ionising the lump atomic group for acceleration; (e) coating a CuInSe2 film on a substrate.    Also claimed is that the solar battery has a thin film of CuInSe2 on a substrate formed by the above mentioned method.    USE -   The method produces the thin film of the chalcopyrite cpd. used for the solar battery.    ADVANTAGE -   The method allows low-temp. film coating, ionisation provides the film with high adhesion. The method readily produces the thin film having good crystallinity and high adhesion. The resulting solar battery has high efficiency.
(JP7272742-A)      Fuel cell stack comprises: (a) solid oxide electrolyte members with anode and cathode on opposite surfaces defining anode and cathode chambers; (b) H2 supply passage to the anode chambers, the passages contg. a catalyst for steam reforming hydrocarbon fuel to H2, heat being supplied to the steam reforming reaction from the fuel cells; (c) oxidant supply to the cathode chambers; (d) an adiabatic prereformer for converting heavier hydrocarbons to CH4, H2 and COx for supply to the fuel gas passages; and (e) a hydrocarbon supply to the prereformer.    ADVANTAGE -   Fuel cell stack design facilitates indirect internal reforming.    (EP673074-B1)      Fuel cell stack comprises: (a) solid oxide electrolyte members with anode and cathode on opposite surfaces defining anode and cathode chambers; (b) H2 supply passage to the anode chambers, the passages contg. a catalyst for steam reforming hydrocarbon fuel to H2, heat being supplied to the steam reforming reaction from the fuel cells; (c) oxidant supply to the cathode chambers; (d) an adiabatic prereformer for converting heavier hydrocarbons to CH4, H2 and COx for supply to the fuel gas passages; and (e) a hydrocarbon supply to the prereformer.    ADVANTAGE -   Fuel cell stack design facilitates indirect internal reforming.
(WO9703922-A1)      Prodn. of highly pure silicon comprises: (a) deboronation, comprising melting and mixing crude silicon and calcium silicate at a temp. of at least the m.pt. of calcium silicate and moving boron in the silicon to a calcium silicate slug; (b) leaving the mixed soln. of (a) in an inactive gas atmos., sepg. to a lower layer of calcium silicate slug layer and an upper layer of molten silicon layer and altering the temp. be in the range of the m.pt. of crude silicon to the m.pt. of calcium silicate to solidify the calcium silicate slug and keep silicon in the melting state; (c) digesting cooling body in the molten silicon, crystallising and adhering highly pure silicon on the surface of the cooling body and taking out the crystallised silicon lump from the cooling body; and (d) melting highly pure silicon from (c) again, treating the molten silicon in vacuum and evaporating and removing phosphorus in the silicon.    ADVANTAGE -   High pure silicon for a solar cell can be produced cheaply and efficiently in a shorter time.
(JP3161663-B2)      Silicon ingot moulding mould has a lining of yttrium oxide, esp. a 0.1-0.5 mm thick lining of yttrium oxide particles of 0.8-15 microns dia..     Also claimed is a moulding having a lining consisting of an undercoating of SiO2 powder, an intermediate coating of a mixt. of SiO2 and Si3 N4 powder, and a top coating of Si3 N4powder.    The base of the mould is made of graphite.     A slurry contg. Y2 O3powder of 0.8 micron average dia. and 4% of polyvinyl alcohol was coated on the inside face of a graphite mould. The coating was dried at 80-120C. The mould was placed in a furnace with Ar gas atmos. and 15 kg of silicon were put in the mould. The silicon was fused at 1500C, left for 1 hr., and then solidified at a rate of 0.8 mm/min..    USE -   For producing solar cells.    ADVANTAGE -   A silicon ingot free of release material and other impurities can be obtd..
(JP96009717-B2)      The appts. comprises a heat recovery part having an exclusive cooler to recover heat from a gas prod. in a gasifier to gasify a combustible component of a solid dust coal.    USE -   In mfr. of fuel gases for fuel cells.
(JP2532030-B2)      A gasket is obtd. by moulding a mixt. composed of 1-12 wt.% of an organic binder, 5-40 wt.% of an inorganic filler, 5-40 wt.% of an inorganic fibre and 40-80 wt.% of a solidifying and sintering inorganic filler into a sheet.    USE -   In electric equipments, e.g. fuel cells, and joints of pipes for high temp. fluids.    ADVANTAGE -   The gasket has a high sealing property at high temp. use.
(JP2696664-B2)      Casting of silicon comprises: (a) placing a conductive bottomless crucible in an induction coil, where, in the crucible, at least part of its axial direction is split in the peripheral direction; (b) dissolving raw material silicon to be provided in the crucible with no silicon contacted the inner wall of the crucible by electromagnetic induction, and (c) gradually pulling down retaining the silicon in a layered shape on the molten metal in the crucible.    USE -   The method casts the silicon used for producing a polycrystal coagulated ingot for a solar battery.    ADVANTAGE -   The method dramatically increases dissolution power efficiency without decreasing crystal quality. The result saves power consumption and reduces casting costs.
(JP2940782-B2)      Prodn. of the solar battery absorbing layer comprises (a) using a copper selenide electrodeposition bath in which indium fine powder is dispersed and suspended; (b) forming a copper selenide electrodeposition layer contg. dispersed indium fine powder on a conductive substrate; (c) applying heat treatment to the electrodeposition layer to transform the electrodeposition layer into a copper-indium-selenium ternary alloy layer.    ADVANTAGE -   Dispersion electrodeposition method has easy operation condition control. Heat treatment transforms the electrodeposition layer into a copper-indium-selenium ternary alloy solar cell absorbing layer having superior crystallinity.
(JP3193992-B2)      The battery consists of several stacks (1-6). Each stack has a positive electrode chamber and a negative electrode chamber separated by a diaphragm. A pump circulates the electrolyte around the electrodes. The output of each battery stack is connected in series. An automatic control valve is provided at the entrance of each pipe that leads the electrolyte to the stack. The output terminal voltage is controlled by changing the state of the cable run switches (1f-6f) connected to the stacks.    ADVANTAGE -   Maintains high level current efficiency. Reduces pump power consumption. Increases battery utilisation efficiency.
(JP7226226-A)       The spillover-type battery comprises: (a) a generator element consisting of a catalyst layer formed by fixing a Pt gp. colloid on a metal plate, a powdery activated carbon applied on the catalyst layer and another metal plate clad on the activated carbon; (b) a closed vessel in which the generator element is placed; (c) a H2gas contained in the closed vessel; and (d) wiring for extracting a current connected to the metal plates.    USE -   Used, e.g., as captive power generators and electric vehicles.    ADVANTAGE -   The battery is maintenance-free, compact, light and free from environmental pollution causes and mass-produced at a low cost.
(JP9508747-W)      The fuel cell comprises: a module (10) for contg. components of the cell, and for attaching fuel cell component to, and a number of fuel cell stacks (12) in the housing, comprising interconnectors alternatively sandwiched between electrolyte plates. The plates have a fuel face with a cathode associated with it, and an air face with an anode near it. Interconnectors are planar and grooved and have a first surface with tunnel flow channels sealed to it and in fluid communication with the fuel face of an adjacent electrolyte. The interconnector second face has air flow channels transverse to the fuel flow channels. A number of hollow manifold (24) frames join the sealing the fuel cell stacks into columns, channelling fuel flow through the fuel cell stacks in a column with air flow channels through the fuel cell stack. A central air plenum (28) comprises the space between the columns in fluid communication with air flow channels. The plenum has two walls comprised of spaced columns and the walls of plenum plates (32) between and sealed to the columns. The plenum has open and sealed ends, receiving air through the open end. A fuel intake (48) is associated with the housing supplying fuel gas to the fuel flow channels in the columns and an air intake (38) is associated with the housing for supplying air to the open end of the air plenum. Also claimed is a fuel cell module with multiple spaced apart columns.    USE -   Used to produce solid oxide fuel cell systems converting reactant gas to electrical energy.
(GB2286717-B)      Power management appts. has a converter of electrical input producing one or more storable chemical cpds., means for storing the, or each cpd., and a reconverter for all, or each of the cpds. for reproducing electricity and, optionally, also producing heat, the appts. including means for controlling the level of reconversion.    USE -   Appts. can be used in association with a conventional large scale power system including an electricity grid and possibly an associated pipe grid. It is partic. to facilitate the operation and management of a combined heat-power system.    ADVANTAGE -   Appts. can provide CO2-free electricity at the point of use and a means of distributed energy storage and load management within the electricity distribution system. It can operate at low temp. and achieve good end use electricity-generation efficiencies, e.g. 88 percent, and provide an environmentally clean, high value fuel for combustion if desired.
(WO9522177-A1)      A semiconductor solar cell comprises an elongated substrate (10) having a curved surface coated with at least two semiconductor layers (30,40) with a conductive layer (20) between the substrate and the first semiconductor layer and a second conductive layer (50) on the second semiconductor layer. The semiconductor layers are selectively positioned about the substrate to form arcuate segments.    Also claimed is a solar cell module as above in which the cell above is fixed to a superstrate, a metallisation layer applied to cell and superstrate and selectively removed to form conduction paths, and electrical pads are connected to these paths.    USE -   For solar cells and solar cell arrays.    ADVANTAGE -   Material use and cost are reduced. Mfr. is simple, resistance losses and grid obscuration are reduced, and efficiency is high.
(EP666602-B1)      A solar cell having an active layer consisting of GaAs on a Si substrate comprises: a plurality of island-shaped buffer layers formed in one element region by dividing the GaAs buffer layer, to which an impurity of a first conductivity type of high concn. is applied and which is formed on a first main surface of the first conductivity type Si substrate, by checkered mesa grooves; active layers comprising a first conductivity type GaAs layer and a second conductivity type GaAs layer which are sequentially formed on each island-shaped buffer layer.    At least one second conductivity type collecting electrode connected to the common electrode is connected to the second conductivity type GaAs layer in each island.    Auxiliary layer (10) comprising a material having a thermal expansion coefft. smaller than that of Si, e.g. BN, is formed on the second main surface (1b) of n type Si substrate (1) of a (100) surface whose surface orientation is inclined by 2 in the (111) direction, at a room temp.. When the wafer is heated to 700C for GaAs formation, the Si substrate is warped into a convex shape. In this state, the n type GaAs layer (2) and the p type GaAs layer (3) are formed by MOCVD method. When the wafer is taken out of the crystal growing appts. at room temp., an epitaxial wafer which is not warped and has no residual stress in the GaAs layer can be provided.    USE -   GaAs solar cell on a Si substrate.    ADVANTAGE -   The occurrence of surface cracks on the substrate is reduced or prevented; even if cracks occur their effect is reduced.
(WO9606454-A1)      Process for making thin-film semiconductor devices comprises depositing thin-film precursors of Cu and (In,Ga) on a substrate (12) in a Cu-rich ratio with Cu:(In,Ga) being greater than 1:1, and annealing in the presence of Se at 400-500 deg.C to form a thin-film Cu(In,Ga)Se2(16)-CuxSe (18) phase-sepd. mixt. This is exposed to (In,Ga) and Se vapour (22,24,26) to deposit these while raising the temp. to a higher recrystallisation temp. of 500-600 deg.C., and held to form a Cu(In,Ga)Se2 thin film having a Cu-poor ratio of Cu:(In,Ga) being less than 1:1.    USE -   For photovoltaic and solar cell absorber applications.    ADVANTAGE -   Produces a higher quality thin film, which is consistent and homogeneous, does not need further smoothing, can be scaled up to large areas, and is cost-effective.    (JP9506475-W)      Process for making thin-film semiconductor devices comprises depositing thin-film precursors of Cu and (In,Ga) on a substrate (12) in a Cu-rich ratio with Cu:(In,Ga) being greater than 1:1, and annealing in the presence of Se at 400-500 deg.C to form a thin-film Cu(In,Ga)Se2(16)-CuxSe (18) phase-sepd. mixt. This is exposed to (In,Ga) and Se vapour (22,24,26) to deposit these while raising the temp. to a higher recrystallisation temp. of 500-600 deg.C., and held to form a Cu(In,Ga)Se2 thin film having a Cu-poor ratio of Cu:(In,Ga) being less than 1:1.    USE -   For photovoltaic and solar cell absorber applications.    ADVANTAGE -   Produces a higher quality thin film, which is consistent and homogeneous, does not need further smoothing, can be scaled up to large areas, and is cost-effective.
(JP3094767-B2)      The electrolyte supply method involves inserting a electrolyte board (1) having a cathode (2) and an anode (3) on either sides, in a cell (C). The anode and cathode are layered through a separator (4). Oxidation gas (OG) and fuel gas (FG) are supplied to cathode and anode respectively from the concerned oxidation gas supply line (8) and fuel gas supply line (9).    Hydroxides such as LiOH, KOH, NaOH containing Li,K,Na either of which is the main ingredient of carbonic acid salt. The carbonic acid is supplied to the anode side through the fuel gas supply line in the state of a gas. Carbon di oxide gas generated by the reaction in the anode is made to contact with the supply hydroxide, changing to carbonic acid salt.    ADVANTAGE -   Facilitates supply of carbonic acid salt during operation. Provides reliable supply of electrolyte without changing equipment. Controls quantity of carbon di oxide thereby adjusting quantity of carbonic acid salt, preventing supply-in large quantities.
(JP3128099-B2)       The air electrode consists of a mixt. of at least one of zirconia, alumina or lanthanide group refractories, and perovskite type copper oxide having structure of K2 NiF4.    ADVANTAGE -   The electric characteristics and fine structure stability are simultaneously obtained by the process of this invention.
(EP741916-A1)      Rechargeable zinc halide electrolyte electrochemical cell comprising a laminate of the sequence: (a) an electrically conducting chemically inert material; (b) a bi-layer membrane matrix of a pair of hydrophilic polymer matrices each contg. immobilised zinc electrolyte; (c) an electrically conducting layer adapted to adsorb and absorb halogen; and (d) a material capable of reversibly absorbing and releasing bromine in the form of at least one layer disposed between the membrane matrices for reducing self-discharge in the cell. Also claimed is a storage battery contg. the cells connected in series.    USE -   Used for rechargeable non-flow zinc halide storage batteries.    (JP9509522-W)      Rechargeable zinc halide electrolyte electrochemical cell comprising a laminate of the sequence: (a) an electrically conducting chemically inert material; (b) a bi-layer membrane matrix of a pair of hydrophilic polymer matrices each contg. immobilised zinc electrolyte; (c) an electrically conducting layer adapted to adsorb and absorb halogen; and (d) a material capable of reversibly absorbing and releasing bromine in the form of at least one layer disposed between the membrane matrices for reducing self-discharge in the cell. Also claimed is a storage battery contg. the cells connected in series.    USE -   Used for rechargeable non-flow zinc halide storage batteries.
(WO9602798-A1)      A radiation converter, for converting electromagnetic radiation into heat (absorber) or heat into electromagnetic radiation (emitter), includes quasi-crystalline material, pref. which is thermodynamically stable and comprises two or more of Al, B, Cr, Fe, Ga, Ge, Hf, C, Co, Cu, Li, Mg, Mn, Mo, Ni, Nb, Os, Pd, P, Re, Ru, S, Si, Ta, Ti, V, Bi, W, Y, Zn and Zr.    USE -   As an absorber for converting solar radiation into thermal energy in solar collectors and as an emitter in combination with a photocell for generating electric current from heat (claimed).    ADVANTAGE -   The converter completely satisfies thermal and chemical stability requirements and has adjustable spectral optical properties.
(US5441621-A)      A crossed-ridge sealing surface (1) for restricting leakage of fluids within a multilayered system (10) eg electrochemical cell device. Surface (10) comprises a sealing surface on a stacking side (35) of one of the layers of the system that defines through apertures (28A,B,C,D) passing through the surface. First aligned ridges (48) are defined on the sealing surface. Second aligned ridges (50) on the sealing surface crosses the first aligned ridges (48) to define sealing cells (52a,B,C,D,E,F) by the crossing of the first (48) and second (50) aligned ridges.    This is so that at least two sealing cells (52) are defined between any two of the through apertures.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   Cross ridge sealing surface for restricting leakage of fluids within a multilayered system such as electrochemical cell devices. The improved sealing surface overcomes the design flexibility, cost and reliability problems of the prior art. The sealing surface provides design modifications without the need to re-design the entire sealing surface. One sealing surface design can be used in a variety of distinct applications, thus limiting mfg. costs of the surface. Sealing surface tolerates minor scratches without resultant leakage of sealed fluids.
(JP7240206-A)      Manufacture of cathodes for molten carbonate fuel cells including Li cobaltite, comprises tape casting of a mixture containing powdered Co and bicarbonate.    USE -   Fuel cell cathodes.    ADVANTAGE -   Method produces cathodes with optimum porosity.    (EP661767-B1)      Manufacture of cathodes for molten carbonate fuel cells including Li cobaltite, comprises tape casting of a mixture containing powdered Co and bicarbonate.    USE -   Fuel cell cathodes.    ADVANTAGE -   Method produces cathodes with optimum porosity.
(JP3011387-B2)       Ceramics comprises lanthanum manganite having a (Ln(1-x) AEx )1-y MnO3, perovskite solid soln., where AE is Ca or Sr, Ln has up to 74 wt.% of La, up to 5 wt.% of Ce, up to 20 wt.% of Pr, and up to 1 wt.% of Nd, x is greater than zero and smaller than or equal to 0.4; and y is equal to or greater than zero and is smaller than 0.1.    USE -   For a solid electrolyte fuel cell.
(DE4343041-C2)      A corrosion-resistant, protective coating is applied to metal objects (1) or metallic coatings. The protective coating consists of a base layer (2) applied by sputtering in a vacuum, a corrosion-resistant barrier layer (3) applied by plasma-activated vapour deposition, and a surface layer (4) applied by sputtering. A concentration gradient occurs across the three layers, which are joined to form one continuous coating.    USE -   Corrosion-resistant metal is used in the construction industry and in equipment, domestic appliances, and car mfr.. Metal-coated surfaces requiring protection are e.g. mirrors and solar energy cells.    ADVANTAGE -   Improved corrosion-resistance and/or barrier properties compared to prior art coatings, together with relatively low mfg. costs.
(JP3182677-B2)      The battery has a heat accumulation type heat exchanger (12) which has a switching period of less than one minute. An electric power generator (14) with cells is heated. The heat exchanger introduces a cooling medium into the electric power generator to provide cooling effect.    ADVANTAGE -   The reduces size of battery and economical value. Improves installation nature of battery; and enables miniaturisation of battery.
(JP3040645-B2)      The cell consists of a fuel pole, a solid electrolyte and an oxygen pole as its electrolytic layers. A passage for the flow of gas is also formed in the cell. An electric junction material is deposited on both sides of the interconnector which connects the electrolytic layers electrically.    ADVANTAGE -   The cell reduces thickness of cell; forms uniform inter connector and electrolytic layers; reduces prodn. time and electrical resistance; and improves connection intensity and reliability.
(JP3131085-B2)       The method involves the deposition of a solid state metallic oxide electrolyte (3) on the surface of a cylindrical porous air pole (2). A porous fuel pole (4) consists of a compound metallic oxide layer formed over a metallic object. A collector member (5) is fixed to the air pole and is placed between the poles and the electrolyte layer. The compound oxide layer has a formula Z(La( 1-x-y)Ax By ) (Cr( 1-p)Cp ) O3delta,    where "A" is a third group element while B and C are alkaline earth elements like Mn, Ni, Fe, Ce and Zr. An interface layer (6) is formed between the corrosion resistant halogen gas layers. The values of x, y, z and p in the general formula are given by 0x0.4, 0.5y0.55, 90z1.050 and 0.1p0.9.    ADVANTAGE -   The method improves life time of cell and performance.
(JP2916070-B2)      In prepn. of a silicon semiconductor by pouring heated and melted silicon semiconductor material into a mould, solidifying, taking out the silicon from the mould, and cutting the solidified silicon into silicon ingots, partitions which fit the silicon ingots to be produced are placed in the mould in advance and the partitions are removed after the ingots are solidified.    The material of the partitions pref. has electric conductivity, poor wettability against the silicon material, and a high melting point. The material of the partitions is more pref. tantalum, molybdenum, or tungsten.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   The polycrystalline silicon semiconductors obtd. can be used as materials of solar cells. The number of cutting processes for obtaining silicon substrates can be reduced from two by the conventional method to one.
(FR2713018-A1)      Contacting thin layer solar modules comprises: (a) producing a thin film solar module on a substrate (1) and integrally structuring into strips and crossing in series, where at least one of the 1st or 2nd electrode layers (2,4) comprises a transparent conducting oxide; (b) placing a contact strip (5,6) over the 2nd electrode layer (4) along both sides of the substrate (1) parallel to the strip-like structure; and (c) laminating a cover on the structure using a melt adhesive foil (7) under elevated temp. and pressure.    USE -   The process is used to contact solar modules made of amorphous silicon or alloy contg. amorphous silicon, where 1st and 2nd electrode layers are made of zinc oxide; or to contact solar modules with a chalcopyrite deriv. as absorber layer.    ADVANTAGE -   Good electrically conducting contact is produced.    (DE4340402-C2)      Contacting thin layer solar modules comprises: (a) producing a thin film solar module on a substrate (1) and integrally structuring into strips and crossing in series, where at least one of the 1st or 2nd electrode layers (2,4) comprises a transparent conducting oxide; (b) placing a contact strip (5,6) over the 2nd electrode layer (4) along both sides of the substrate (1) parallel to the strip-like structure; and (c) laminating a cover on the structure using a melt adhesive foil (7) under elevated temp. and pressure.    USE -   The process is used to contact solar modules made of amorphous silicon or alloy contg. amorphous silicon, where 1st and 2nd electrode layers are made of zinc oxide; or to contact solar modules with a chalcopyrite deriv. as absorber layer.    ADVANTAGE -   Good electrically conducting contact is produced.
(WO9515011-A1)      Photovoltaic device comprises a semiconductor body in which moving charge carriers are produced by falling optical radiation. The semiconductor body contains a material having an energy band structure that makes addition carrier prodn. possible by bombarding ionisation (Auger Effect) in the spectral region of the falling radiation.    USE -   As solar cell, and device with heterostructure semiconductor body.    (DE4340221-C2)      Photovoltaic device comprises a semiconductor body in which moving charge carriers are produced by falling optical radiation. The semiconductor body contains a material having an energy band structure that makes addition carrier prodn. possible by bombarding ionisation (Auger Effect) in the spectral region of the falling radiation.    USE -   As solar cell, and device with heterostructure semiconductor body.    (JP9509282-W)      Photovoltaic device comprises a semiconductor body in which moving charge carriers are produced by falling optical radiation. The semiconductor body contains a material having an energy band structure that makes addition carrier prodn. possible by bombarding ionisation (Auger Effect) in the spectral region of the falling radiation.    USE -   As solar cell, and device with heterostructure semiconductor body.    (US5693151-A)      Photovoltaic device comprises a semiconductor body in which moving charge carriers are produced by falling optical radiation. The semiconductor body contains a material having an energy band structure that makes addition carrier prodn. possible by bombarding ionisation (Auger Effect) in the spectral region of the falling radiation.    USE -   As solar cell, and device with heterostructure semiconductor body.
(JP3191530-B2)      Air pole prodn. involves shaping a kneaded mixt. of activated carbon, conductive carbon and polytetrafluoroethylene in the form of a sheet. The soln. of redn. agent of a metal content ion are impregnated into the sheets separately. Then, sheets are carried to a holder containing a catalyser to return the metal content ion to the metal.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   For use in air cell mfr. for fuel cell, where zinc, iron, magnesium and aluminium are used as negative electrodes. Realises high catalyser ability by using small quantity of metal.
(JP3061342-B2)      Prodn. comprises: irradiating ZnO molecular beams and molecular beams of periodic gp. IA (H), IIIA (B, Al, Ga, or In), or VIIA (F, Cl, I, or Brr) atom at a substrate for forming a film. The result produces the transparent conductive film comprising ZnO doped with the above atom. Also claimed is the prodn. of the photoelectric transfer semiconductor device comprising (a) forming the ZnO transparent conductive film on transparent substrate; (b) forming a semiconductor film for forming a hetero bond or homo bond on the ZnO film.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   The methods produce the transparent conductive film and the photoelectric transfer semiconductor device. The transparent conductive film is used for a high-efficient solar battery, or a display. The transparent conductive film and the photoelectric transfer semiconductor device have low resistance. The method produces the ZnO film having less crystal defects.
(JP7221338-A)      Paste of raw material and thickener is applied on the glass substrate (1), vibrated, dried, burned and CdS sintered layer (2), CdTe sintered layer (3), and carbon electrode (4) are formed on it.    ADVANTAGE -   The characteristics of the solar battery are improved, by forming dense and uniform layer by the process of this invention.
(JP9503615-W)      The reformer (10) is located in the stack furnace (12) housing solid oxide fuel cells (16). Energy for endothermic reformation reaction converting hydrocarbon and water feedstock into hydrogen and carbon monoxide fuel is supplied from heat recovered from the stack oxidisation process.    Uses min. of catalyst but prevents carbonisation from reducing catalyst granule efficiency. Alternatively sufficient catalyst may be provided to give a heat-limited reaction with heat transfer direct to a surrounding reformer (110).    ADVANTAGE/USE -   Temp. gradients in the reformer may be controlled by radiation shielding (20) and by counterflow heat exchange to prevent premature reformer cracking.    (US5763114-A)      The reformer (10) is located in the stack furnace (12) housing solid oxide fuel cells (16). Energy for endothermic reformation reaction converting hydrocarbon and water feedstock into hydrogen and carbon monoxide fuel is supplied from heat recovered from the stack oxidisation process.    Uses min. of catalyst but prevents carbonisation from reducing catalyst granule efficiency. Alternatively sufficient catalyst may be provided to give a heat-limited reaction with heat transfer direct to a surrounding reformer (110).    ADVANTAGE/USE -   Temp. gradients in the reformer may be controlled by radiation shielding (20) and by counterflow heat exchange to prevent premature reformer cracking.
(WO9521462-A1)      A holder (28) is provided for receiving a solar cell and conveying it to a pasting station where solder paste is discharged under pressure through nozzles (125) onto selected areas of the cell, the holder (28) then moving the cell to an unloading station.    Also claimed is a method of applying solder paste to a solar cell by conveying the cell to a station where dabs of paste are deposited onto electrical contacts on the cell.    A detector registers failure to dispense paste. A control repeats operation of the solder paste feeder each time failure to dispense is detected. Paste is fed by a positive displacement pump. A paste-pump is provided for each nozzle. The holder may be moved around a turntable.    USE -   Automating the making of soldered electrical connections.    ADVANTAGE -   Paste may be applied to several areas simultaneously. Success of application may be tested for. Breakage of thin, brittle substrates is avoided.
(JP3166888-B2)      The stack contains a hollow substrate plate (11) covered with a cell gp. formed using a 1st electrode material equipped with an opening part (15) at the end, a 2nd electrode layer (2) and an electrode layer (1) formed with two or more single cells. A gas flow path is formed in the hollow plate. A gas introduction pipe is inserted into the gas flow part. To isolate the gas before passing to hollow layer and the gas after passage, a 1st partition board is introduced in the plate. A 2nd fixed board is arranged in the opening part of the plate to the isolate the gas flow at inside and outside of the plate.    ADVANTAGE -   Improves power generation efficiency. Reduces fuel consumption. Improves power density. Reduces vol..
(US5546004-A)      A sensor for determining a course of concentration of an adsorbent substance diffusing out of a flow medium through a surface of a sensor material into the sensor material as a function of a distance from the surface, the sensor comprising: a sensor material having an electrical conductivity depending on a local concentration of an adsorbent substance adsorbed at the sensor material; electric supply leads; and individual pairs of contacts connected to the supply leads and disposed in the sensor material for determining the electrical conductivity of the sensor material between the contacts of the individual pairs of contacts.
(WO9517021-A1)      Appts. for generating electricity comprises (a) a plasmatron for generating (i) a gaseous molecular species, or (ii) a hydrogen-rich gas from a hydrocarbon; and (b) a fuel cell connected to receive (i) the gaseous species, or (ii) the hydrogen-rich gas, from the plasmatron to generate electricity, a portion of the generated electricity being supplied to the plasmatron.    Also claimed are (i) a method of starting a plasmatron/fuel cell system for generating electricity; and (ii) a self propelled vehicle.    USE -   Plasmatron-fuel cell system for decentralised electricity generation.    ADVANTAGE -   The appts. is compact and simple, with low power for the plasmatron, and high efficiency of both the fuel cell, and conversion of hydrocarbon energy.
(EP650922-A1)       In the removal of CO in H2 rich gas by oxidising the CO with air on a selective oxidn. catalyst (I) contg. noble metal, oxidn. is carried out in at least two stages and the reactor length and dia. depth of the (I) bed and CO:O2stoichiometry are suited to the initial CO concentrations in each stage. (I) may be Pt-zeolite.    ADVANTAGE -   Very low residual CO concns. of under 40 ppm can be achieved under dynamic operating conditions, without controlling the air supply according to concn.
(DE4334981-C2)      Reactor, for catalytic removal of CO in H2-rich gas with a selective CO-oxidn. catalyst (I) contg. noble metal, has a structure (II) producing turbulent flow and favouring heat transport, which is coated with (I).    Pref. (II) is a metallic or ceramic support with cross-channel, sponge or fibrous structure or the reactor walls. Its surface is suited to the dimensions of the (I) powder. The thickness of the (I) layer is suited to the initial CO concn. (I) consists of Pt/Al2O3, in which the size of the Pt clusters pref. is 3-10 nm; Ru/Al2O3; or Pt-zeolite.    USE -   The reactor is used in conjunction with a fuel cell, esp. for mobile applications (claimed), e.g, in cars and good vehicles and for generating current with fuel cells.    ADVANTAGE -   This reactor increases the selectivity for CO oxidn. and prevents steep temp. gradients.
(WO9513626-A1)      A high efficiency solar cell comprises an n-Ge substrate (18) with a back metal contact (20) and a first cell comprising a p-n junction in GaAs (24) and a p-(AlGa)As window layer (30), a tunnel diode (32) comprising a p+-n+ GaAs junction and a second cell comprising a (GaIn)P p-n junction (42), a p-(AlIn)P layer (48), metal grid lines (50), and at least one antireflection coating. Also claimed are a three-junction solar cell as above comprising a p-Ge substrate bottom semiconductor cell, and a two junction solar cell as above with the front surface of the n-Ge substrate being passivated.    USE -   For high efficiency solar cells for space and terrestrial applications.    ADVANTAGE -   Cell efficiency may exceed 23%, mechanical strength is good, and the cell uses much of the solar spectrum.
(JP7169984-A)      The solar cell module of the includes a photovoltaic device (solar cell) (105) covered with a packing material (104), its light-receiving side being covered with a three-layer structure. The three-layer structure comprises a rigid resin layer (101) having a Shore hardness D of at least 50.    An adhesive layer (102) is included which absorbs UV rays of wavelengths capable of deteriorating the rigid resin layer but transmits UV rays necessary for power generation by the photovoltaic device. The outermost layer (103) has high weatherability (the property that the resin itself is stable against heat, light and moisture).    ADVANTAGE -   Maintains conversion efficiency for long period.
(JP3038401-B2)      High temp. combustion gas (G) is generated by burning fuel gas (F) by supplying oxygen (O). High speed jet (J) is formed by accelerating the combustion gas (G) with a nozzle (12). Al powder (A), placed near to the orifice of the nozzle (12), is sprayed on the processed surface by the high speed jet (J).    ADVANTAGE -   A coating with high adhesive force and low porosity is formed on the processed surface. Plugging of the spray nozzle is prevented.
(JP3056355-B2)      The battery uses a solid state macromolecule electrolyte film (126) which forms junction with an electrolyte film (124). The collector object (110) made of porous carbon supplies oxygen or hydrogen gas to the electrode. A partition (22) is provided in contact with the collector object. The partition is made of material of water transparency. Through this partition, water is supplied to a cooling chamber and to the collector object. From this collector object, the moisture is supplied uniformly to the solid state macromolecule electrolyte film.    ADVANTAGE -   Provides high response. Provides battery which humidifies electrolyte film uniformly.
(JP7086624-A)      The absorption layer manufacturing method involves formation of a electro coating type copper layer on an insulation substrate by using copper plating bath containing selenium particles. An electro coating type indium layer is then formed by using indium plating bath containing selenium particles. Two or more electrocoating layers containing copper, indium and selenium in a proportion 1:1:3 are thus formed. This electro coating layer are heated subsequently and converted to a copper- indium-selenium alloy layer.    ADVANTAGE -   Obtains solar battery of desired composition. Enables easy control of battery operation.    (DE4433097-C2)      Prodn. of a light-absorbing layer of a solar cell comprises: (a) using the following steps in combination: forming a galvanically deposited Cu layer with Se dispersed in it using a galvanic Cu both with Se particles dispersed in the form of a suspension, and forming a galvanically deposited In layer with Se dispersed in it using a galvanically In bath with small Se particles dispersed in a suspension, to produce a multilayered galvanically deposited layer having Cu, In and Se on an electrically conducting substrate; and (b) heat treating with a layer produced by galvanic deposited to convert it into a three material alloy layer contg. Cu, In and Se.    ADVANTAGE -   The layer has good crystalline properties.
(US5432021-A)      Carbon monoxide present in the feed gas stream for a fuel cell is oxidised by passing the gas through a catalytic reactor where additional oxygen containing gas is introduced. The feed gas stream is pref. obtained by water shift reaction.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   Used with fuel cells. The process allows fuel cells to be operated on relatively impure gases.    (EP720781-B1)      Oxidn. of CO to CO2 in the reactant stream (I) of an electrochemical fuel cell equipped with an inlet (A) and outlet (B) for (I) and where (I) also contains H2 and CO2 is effected by addn. of a first O2-contg. gas stream to (I) via a port (C) positioned between inlet (A) and outlet (B) then contacting the stream obtd. with a catalyst (II) in the fuel cell to promote oxidn. of CO to CO2. A further O2-contg. stream is added to (I) via a secondary port (D) located between port (C) and outlet (B) and the stream contacted with (II) to promote CO oxidn.. CO in (I) may be produced by the reverse H2O shift reaction in a H2 -contg. reformate gas mixt..    Port (D) is a plurality and is uniformly spaced with port (C) along the path of stream (I) between inlet (A) and outlet (B).    Stream (I) further contains O2 and O2 contg. streams are drawn from (I).    Appts. for the oxidn. comprises first and second fluid flow field plates or separator layers of electroconductive material with a membrane electrode assembly between these plates or layers. The first plate (or layer) is impermeable to the fuel stream, and the second is impermeable to the O2-contg. stream.    USE -   CO oxidn. in H2-contg. gas mixts. to render mixt. suitable for use as fuel stream in fuel cells. O2-contg. gas may be supplied into an active area of the cell to maintain a uniform temp. profile across this area.    ADVANTAGE -   Adsorption of CO from inlet fuel stream of cells onto surface of catalyst material, e.g. Pt, is avoided.
(JP9504901-W)      The fuel cell (10) has an electrochemically active section (26) and a humidification section (28) in a modular plate and frame design. A pneumatic piston (17) in a compression end plate (16) applies a pressure to promote sealing. The active section has a plurality of fuel cell repeating units (12) consisting of a membrane electrode and a cathode fluid flow field plate.    Carbon monoxide is fed to the assembly which contains a catalyst which oxidises the carbon monoxide to carbon dioxide. Carbon monoxide produced by the reverse water shift reaction is also oxidised.    ADVANTAGE -   Renders a mixture of carbon monoxide in hydrogen suitable for use as a fuel for an electrochemical fuel cell.
(JP7070764-A)      Stainless steel parts consists of base steel and corrosion resistance layer formed on its surface, which composed by alloy containing Al and at least one of component of base steel, and deposited spherical foreign phase grain.    ADVANTAGE -   Stainless steel parts having good corrosion resistance layer on its surface, is offered by this method.
(JP2603043-B2)      The plant comprises a series-parallel combination of fuel cells (1) as per the requirement of a life time management to suit a plant employment. These d.c voltages are converted into a.c voltages by an inverter (8). Fuel supply pipe (2), fuel rate- of-flow regulation value (4), air supply pipe (3) and air rate flow control value (5) are connected to each cell. By changing these fuel and air ratio, individual voltage and hence individual characteristic of each battery is altered.    Static characteristic of each battery is performed to access individual characteristic, by trial and error method. To suit the plan employment, voltages of individual batteries or group of batteries having similar characteristics are changed, without affecting control set point of parallel branch. To protect individual battery, a current limiter is also provided.    ADVANTAGE -   Increases operating efficiently. Facilitates easy maintenance management. Rationalises plant employment. Improves accuracy of control system of cell voltages.
(JP2766185-B2)      The molten-salt fuel-battery power generation plant has a piping (4) through which fuel gas is supplied to the anode. Air is supplied to the cathode of the fuel-battery main part (2) through another piping (8). The amount of reactive gas supplied is controlled by the amount of load current and reaction gas utilization factor. The cathode exit gas is introduced into a deheat recovery device (10) through a piping (9). After steam generation by heat switching, the supply water is discharged through an outer piping (11). The cathode exit gas cools the fuel-battery main part, and is used as compressor cycle gas.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   For use in turbine power generation. Attains highly efficient and stable output characteristics. Provides long time stability.
(US5445903-A)      A solid electrolyte is placed between an O2 electrode and a fuel electrode. At least one separator contacts the surface of one of the electrodes and opposite the electrolyte. A reactive micro-slip zone is formed between the electrolyte and at least one electrode, and has interconnected pores of a lesser average dia. than the pores of the adjacent electrode. Pref. the micro-slip zone is adjacent the O2 or fuel electrode and is of the same material, respectively. The electrolyte pref. has an O2- or fuel-electrode material coating on the surface proximate the O2. or fuel-electrode, respectively.    ADVANTAGE -   Enhanced electrical performance.    (JP9505684-W)      A solid electrolyte is between an oxygen electrode and a fuel electrode. At least one separator contacts the surface of one of the electrodes opposite the electrolyte.    A reactive microslip zone is between the electrolyte and at least one electrode. The zone has interconnected pores of smaller average diameter than the power of the adjacent electrode.    ADVANTAGE -   Easier fabrication, improved performance, improved economics of production.
(US5401331-A)      Photovoltaic device comprises a substrate with a layer of photoconductive semiconductor grown upon it. Substrate comprises 0.1-1.3 atom % of boron in an alloy contg. silicon, and has a lattice constant matched to that of the semiconductor. Substrate has resistivity less than 0.001 ohm.cm.    Lattice constant of the alloy is 5.4282-5.4330 Angstroms. Substrate forms the back contact of the device.    USE -   For converting solar energy into electrical signals.    (US5785769-A)      A photovoltaic device for converting solar energy into electrical signals comprises: (1) a substrate; (2) a layer of photoconductive semiconductor grown on the substrate; (3) the substrate comprises an alloy of silicon and boron; (4) the alloy comprises boron in range 0.1-1.3 atomic % of the alloy, the alloy having a lattice content that is matched to that of the photoconductive semiconductor and the substrate has a resisivity of less than 1x103 ohm-cm.    Also claimed is a substrate for a photovoltaic device where the substrate is the base of the photovoltaic device upon which photosensitive material is grown, comprising: (a) a top surface upon which the photosensitive material is grown, (b) a body material forming the substrate, (c) the body material comprises an alloy of metallurgical grade silicon and boron, the alloy comprising at least 0.1% boron.    Also claimed is a method of forming a photovoltaic device comprising: (i) providing metallurgical grade silicon, (ii) providing a source of boron, (iii) combining the metallurgical grade silicon with boron from the source to provide an alloy of silicon and boron wherein the alloy has more than 0.1% boron, (iv) solidifying the alloy of silicon and boron to form a substrate, (v) growing a photosensitive material on the substrate to form the photovoltaic device.    ADVANTAGE -   The substrate is provided at low cost, has good conductivity and can withstand high processing temps.
(JP3162881-B2)      The fuel battery consists of a cell (4) having a fuel pole (2) and an oxidising agent pole (3). Both poles counter each other through an electrolyte (1). Separators (5-9), which carry out isolation of the gas, are layered on either sides. Collector objects (6,7) are interposed between each electrode and the separator. The fuel pole side collector object (6) is interposed between the fuel pole and the first separator. The collector object is constituted from nickel 'felt' from which the electrolyte material adheres to the surface of a fibrous nickel.    ADVANTAGE -   Controls sintering of nickel 'felt' during long term operation at high temperature. Improves battery performance. Secures clearance between fibres. Increases number of three phase boundary faces in collector part.
(JP2979911-B2)      The quality catalyser is made up of cermet (4A). The composition of cermet is represented as Fe-AlO3. Alumina is also included in the catalyser. Both materials are of low catalyser activity. A metal is added partially, which possesses high catalysing activity.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   For use in solid state electrolyte type fuel battery for fuel change. Enables levelling of current density and temperature distribution inside cell. Eliminates cell puncture. Changes amount of quality reaction for every part of cell.
(JP2877666-B2)      The starting method performs power generation of a fuel battery by supplying a fuel gas. This generated power along with a heater heats up an internal load. As a result, temperature of fuel battery rises. When the temperature rises, a battery current increases upto maximum value.    According to this battery current increase, a voltage standard control step controls the internal load so that battery voltage is maintained at a minimum value. After the battery current reaches the maximum value, the battery voltage increases. A current standard control step controls an internal load depending on the battery voltage increase so that battery current is maintained at a constant value.    ADVANTAGE -   Enables starting of fuel battery even in state of maximum load. Shortens starting time of fuel battery.
(JP2994914-B2)      The structure of a single cell (10) is formed by an electrolyte board (2) having an anode (3) and a cathode (4) arranged on either side. Two collector boards (5, 6) are arranged above and below the electrolyte board and are connected electrically. Two terminal electrodes (11, 12) are provided at either side of the cell. The collector boards (5, 6) are extended and they are connected with the terminal electrodes (11, 12). The anode gas and the cathode gas are supplied through a pair of windows provided at the two main surfaces of the cell.    ADVANTAGE -   Provides easy assembly. Reduces size. Produces high voltage.
(DE4327114-A1)      Photovoltaic cell with controllable semiconductor properties has semiconducting multilayer or gradient coatings of metal oxide (I) on electroconductive substrate. (I) comprises oxide(s) of Ti, Zr, Sn, Pb, Al, Zn, Cd, In, V, Nb, Ta, Cr, Mo, W, Ca, Sr, Ba, Fe, Ru, Os, Y, La, Ce, Pr, Df, Eu, Dy and/or Yb. In the case of mix oxides or oxide mixts., a component present in a concn. less than 1 mole-% is regarded as dopant.    USE -   The cell is used for generating electrical energy from light, esp. as solar cell (claimed).    ADVANTAGE -   Oxide coatings can be produced on suitable substrates (opt. electroconductive and/or optically transparent) to give an optimum match of their chemical, structural and morphological parameters to the desired function, with exact reproducibility.
(JP2648733-B2)      The semiconductor device includes a first layer (50) of amorphous carbon into which boron is diffused. A second layer (51) also of amorphous silicon adjoins the first layer. A hydrogen is added to the second layer. The semiconductor junction is formed by these two layers.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   For use in optical electromotive junction object and rectification nature junction part. Finds use in solar battery. Obtains high optical electromotive force.
(JP3131077-B2)      A porous film (7) of metal oxide is formed by applying heat on slurry contg. metal oxide applied on one surface of a porous substrate (8). The substrate (8) is placed in a reaction furnace. A metal oxide film is formed on the surface of the porous film (7) by supplying gas of metal halide for forming metal oxide on the surface of the porous film (7) forming surface while supplying gas contg. oxygen on the surface opposite to the porous film forming surface simultaneously.    ADVANTAGE -   A finer interconnecting film of a fuel cell is formed in a shorter duration compared with conventional methods.
(JP96003087-B2)      The gasket for high temp. is formed by blending: 1-30 wt. % of an inorganic fibre having heat resistance at a temp. of at least working temp. as a fibre base material 0-70 wt. % of inorganic powder having heat resistance at a temp. of at least working temp. as an inorganic filler; 20-80 wt. % of an inorganic material having a softening pt. lower than working temp. as an inorganic softening material; and an organic binder. The inorganic fibre, inorganic powder, and inorganic matter have a bulk density of at least 1.0 g/cm3.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   The gasket for high temp. is used for a piping connecting section for a high temp. fluid or fuel cell. The use of the inorganic fibre and the inorganic powder assures high sealing at high temp. The use of the inorganic material buries the voids in the inorganic fibre with the inorganic matter at low temp. The results positively prevent leakage. The resulting gasket has high sealing.
(JP7045303-A)      The apparatus (10) comprises a supply unit including a pair of electrodes (30,30a) spaced apart from each other with a mixture of fired fine pellets (20) of an electron absorbing material and a mixture of fine particles (22) of a mixed electron absorbing material comprising V3Ga, Bi, CuO, Sr and FeO2. Fine particles of a catalyst are also provided along with fine particles of C and FeO2.    A plasticiser is provided and a casing for accommodating the pair of electrodes and the mixture so that the pair of electrodes are individually in intimate contact with the mixture. The fine pellets consist of Nb3Sn and V3be as a superconducting material. The fine pellets have a maximum size of 1.5 mm. The fine particles have a maximum size of thirty microns.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   The charge time is very short and when charge/discharge cycles are repeated little or no damage results giving a prolonged life.
(DE4327318-C2)      A Cr alloy sheet mfg. process involves melting the individual starting components (4,5,6) in an inert gas atmos., spraying the molten components together in the inert gas atmos. onto a receiving surface (22) and, after solidification, detaching from the receiving surface, compacting and/or flat rolling. Equipment for carrying out the above process consists of a melting device (12), a spray device (20), a receiving surface (22) for the sprayed melt, a detachment device (26,34,35) for the solidified melt (32), a shear (38) and a rolling mill stand (40), all installed in a gastight inert gas (43) filled housing (42).    USE -    E.g. for mfr. of sheets of Cr-based alloy contg. 3-10 at.% Fe and 0.5-5 at.% Y or Y2 O3, for use in high temp. fuel cells.    ADVANTAGE -    The process allows efficient mfr. of large sheets of a Cr alloy with limited flowability, avoids oxidn. and nitrogen embrittlement of the alloy, avoids formation of a sintered structure or coarse cast structure and provides uniform distribution of high melting components such as Y2 O3.
(JP3138118-B2)      The system uses an air blower (4) having a part cooling apparatus (20) connected at the discharge side of blower. An electrically equipped setting is connected to the discharge side of air blower. This is capable of changing the speed of the blower by using a speed control apparatus (13) of the blower. A branched air supply pipeline (21A) of the cooling apparatus forces cooling air to a region between a fuel modifier (3) and a fuel battery main part (2).    Another pipeline (21B) forces cooling air to left, outer part of the battery main part. Air is used through a lower part (7) to supply cooling air to right side of fuel modifier outer part. The air blower also supplies reaction air and combustion air to the fuel battery main part and the modifier. A ventilation fan (6) is used to force out the hot air from the system.    ADVANTAGE -   Allows increased hot air discharge. Allows simplified provision for the electrical setting without spoiling cooling function.
(JP2982559-B2)      The structure of a fuel battery is formed by arranging many cells (16) one above the other. Each cell is formed by a pair of fuel poles (12) and oxidising agent pole (14) formed by arranging division electrodes (13) in order. A matrix (15) is placed between the two types of poles.    The separation board forms the passage through which the oxidising agent gas and fuel gas are circulated between the oxidising agent pole and the fuel pole respectively.    ADVANTAGE -   Improves electrical capacity of battery. Reduces manufacturing cost.
(JP2645254-B2)      Appts. comprises a photosynthetic biological cell to take electrons directly out from a photosynthetic process using a life having a photosynthetic function and light-permeable solar cell combined with that cell.    USE -   Used for converting solar energy.
(JP3122283-B2)      Liq. phase growth comprises: (a) supplying a solute to a solvent in a solvent reservoir; (b) circulating the solvent through a pipe; and (c) at an opening provided at part of the pipe, keeping a substrate in contact with the solvent to form a crystal on the substrate.    A liq. phase growth device has: (a) solvent reservoir for supplying the solute to the solvent; (b) pipe for circulating the solvent, both the ends of the pipe being connected to the side wall of the solvent reservoir. An opening for keeping the solvent in contact with the substrate is provided at the midpoint of the pipe.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   The device is used for liq. phase growing. The device and the method continuously grow crystals with simple structure. The device and the method are suitable for mass prodn. for devices, partic. a solar battery requiring the thickness of the crystal.
NOVELTY - The laminate structure has anode pole, cathode pole and inter-connector. The gas collection-and-delivery section has branched gas-negotiation way to supply gas to the gas-manifold provided in the inter-connector of the laminate structure.    USE - For fuel cell applications.
(JP7183035-A)      The fuel cell has a solid polymer electrolyte membrane (58) with an anode (60) and a cathode (61) arranged on either side of the membrane. The reaction area of the electrode is increased by uniformly dispering and bonding a solid polymer electrolyte and a catalyst. The ability of gas feeding to the reaction site is improved by adding a fluoropolymer so that the catalyst is not excessively coated.    The electrode is formed by coating on one side of a gas-diffusible layer a mixed dispersion of a noble metal catalyst, a carbon fine powder and a colloidal dispersion of a solid polymer electrolyte. The colloidal dispersion is prepared using an organic solvent having a polar group other than hydroxyl and with a carbon chain of 1-8 carbon atmos which bonds to the polar group.    ADVANTAGE -   Simple manufacturing method which gives enhanced performance.    (EP637851-B1)      The fuel cell has a solid polymer electrolyte membrane (58) with an anode (60) and a cathode (61) arranged on either side of the membrane. The reaction area of the electrode is increased by uniformly dispering and bonding a solid polymer electrolyte and a catalyst. The ability of gas feeding to the reaction site is improved by adding a fluoropolymer so that the catalyst is not excessively coated.    The electrode is formed by coating on one side of a gas-diffusible layer a mixed dispersion of a noble metal catalyst, a carbon fine powder and a colloidal dispersion of a solid polymer electrolyte. The colloidal dispersion is prepared using an organic solvent having a polar group other than hydroxyl and with a carbon chain of 1-8 carbon atmos which bonds to the polar group.    ADVANTAGE -   Simple manufacturing method which gives enhanced performance.
(WO9504306-A1)      The use of tricycloquinazolines with liq. crystal (LC) properties (I) or LC mixts. contg. (I) as charge transfer cpds., and in organic solar cells, is claimed.    Also claimed are photoconductive layers, pref. 2-100 microns thick, contg. (I) as photoconductor, and electrophotographic recording materials contg. an electrically conductive base and a photoconductive layer as above, or an electrically conductive base, a charge carrier-producing sensitiser layer and a photoconductive layer as above.    Cpds. of formula (I) are preferred. In formula (I), R1-R12 = H, halo, -OCH=CH2, -SCH=CH2, -OCOCH=CH2, -OCOCMe=CH2, -SCOCH=CH2, -SCOCMe=CH2, alkyl, -O-alkyl, -S-alkyl, -NH-alkyl or -N(alkyl)2 contg. 1-20C alkyl gps.; these alkyl gps. are opt. substd. with functional gps., pref. COOH, OH, OR13, NCO, NH2, NHR13, N(R13)2, COR14, COR16 or oxiranyl (where R13 = alkyl, aryl, alkaryl, oxa-alkyl, thia-alkyl, vinyl, allyl or ethynyl; R14 = vinyl or CR15=CH2 (where R15 = alkyl); and R16 = alkyl, aryl or alkaryl).    Pref. (I) have electron-repelling substits. in the 2,3-position.    (I) are prepd. as described e.g. in J. Chem. Soc. 1964, 3670; J. Chem. Soc. 1968, 142; Yakhak Hoechi 30, 203 (1986); Indian J. Chem., Sect B 23B, 560 (1984); Chem; Pharm. Bull. 21, 1610 (1973).    USE -   In organic solar cells and as photoconductors in electrophotographic recording materials, e.g. for copiers, laser printers, offset printing plates, etc..    ADVANTAGE -   Provides new cpds. with improved charge transfer properties.
(JP7022637-A)      A solar cell module wherein at least the light receiving surface of the photovoltaic element is coated with a filler contg. a vinyl fluoride copolymer and acrylic resin.    USE -   This solar cell module can be used outdoors for a prolonged period.    ADVANTAGE -   This module has excellent weatherability, heat-resistance, scratch-resistance and adhesivity to the photovoltaic element. It can maintain a desired photoelectric conversion for a prolonged period by minimising deterioration caused by moisture permeation.    (US5718772-A)      A solar cell module wherein at least the light receiving surface of the photovoltaic element is coated with a filler contg. a vinyl fluoride copolymer and acrylic resin.    USE -   This solar cell module can be used outdoors for a prolonged period.    ADVANTAGE -   This module has excellent weatherability, heat-resistance, scratch-resistance and adhesivity to the photovoltaic element. It can maintain a desired photoelectric conversion for a prolonged period by minimising deterioration caused by moisture permeation.
(EP663701-B1)      A battery pack for an electric vehicle comprises individual batteries ganged together and nesting in an underlying support tray (8) having intersecting upstanding walls (16) and battery receiving defining pockets (20), interlock means engaging the ends of the batteries for preventing relative movement therebetween, a perimetrical flange (26) on the tray extending outboard of the walls, a housing (10) with a ceiling, side walls and a peripheral flange overlying the peripheral flange of the tray enclosing the battery pack to form a rigid structure immobilizing the batteries.    USE -   Housing batteries of an electric vehicle.    ADVANTAGE -   Seals and supports the batteries.
(JP3068365-B2)      The gas seal structure of a fuel battery is formed by a pair of sheet like gaskets (14a,14b) placed above and below a cell (11). The cell consists of a pair of gas diffusion electrodes (13a,13b) placed on either side of a solid state macro molecule electrolyte film (12). The sheet like gasket is stuck to the marginal part and the end face part of the cell.    ADVANTAGE -   Prevents leakage of gas from gas diffusion electrode. Improves productivity.
(JP2957844-B2)      The structure of a fuel battery is formed by a cell (4) which consists of an anode (2) and a cathode (3) with an electrolyte matrix (1) in between. A plate (5) having a pair of internal manifold (16, 17) is placed above the cathode. A plate (7) having the internal manifold is placed below the cathode. An anode shim (18) which carries out sealing of gas is placed between the electrolyte matrix and the plate (7). A cathode shim (19) is placed between the electrolyte matrix and the plate (5). A sheet member (20) whose thickness is larger than the thickness of electrolyte is placed inner side of cathode shim.    ADVANTAGE -   Improves performance of battery. Provides high electric power generation efficiency. Increases comprehensive energy efficiency. Reduces undesired sound and vibration.
(WO9509450-A1)      A high temp. fuel cell having two temp. zones for directly converting a carbon fuel to electrical energy. The fuel cell comprises:- (a) a housing including a non-porous section and a solid electrolyte; (b) a first heat source on the housing near the electrolyte and (c) a second heat source on the housing remote from the first heat source. The electrolyte has first and second surfaces to which respective electrodes are attached. A fuel compartment is formed from the non-porous section and the second surface of the electrolyte. The heat sources establish separate temp. zones in the fuel compartment. Current is electrochemically generated by the mass transport of oxygen across the electrolyte. Carbon is burnt in the fuel compartment when an oxygen-contg. gas is brought into contact with the outer surface of the electrolyte.    Also claimed is a method of directly converting carbon fuels to electrical energy using the above high temp. fuel cell. In this method the temp. in the first temp. zone is adjusted to minimise the impedance of the electrolyte and the temp. in the second zone it is adjusted to favour the oxidn. of carbon fuel to CO2 rather than CO. When oxygen is supplied to the second surface electric current can be withdrawn from the electrodes.    USE -   Fuel cells for the direct electrochemical conversion of carbon to electrochemical energy.    ADVANTAGE -   Solid fuel such as coal is directly converted into electricity avoiding the energy and efficiency costs of intermediate gasification.
(JP2665547-B2)      The carbonic acid salt solution based fuel battery system includes an anode exhaust gas piping structure. The anode exhaust gas from the main pipe is divided into three branches. First pipe is led to the modifier combustion part entrance. The second pipe is connected to the entry point of modifier reaction part. The third pipe goes to the catalyser combustion part. The flow control in each pipe are adjustable by a mechanism.    By changing the quality of anode exhaust gas, the control of the device is achieved. However, the modified also changes the combustion rate which also controls the device.    ADVANTAGE -    Controls CO2deficiency in cathode by supplying anode exhaust gas to cathode after combustion. Increases gas supplied to reaction part.
(JP2864928-B2)      The material is a perovskite type metallic oxide of compsn. BaCe1-xMxO3-y, where x=0-1 and y is no more than 1.5. By varying the amt. of M in the oxide compsn., the lattice constant ratios, e.g. b/c, c/a,etc., are suitably altered affecting the conductivity. The parameters for orthorhombics are alpha = beta = gamma = 90 degrees and a is not equal to b and b is not equal to c.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   Used in fuel cells as electrochemical sensors. The polycrystalline sintered body possesses high temp. ionic conductivity with good chemical stability.
(JP7142756-A)      The module manufacturing method is applied to a solar cell (102) surrounded by a filling material (105). Two covering films (106, 104) with one on the upper surface of filling material and another on its back side are formed. Both the covering films are thermally bonded.    ADVANTAGE -   Improves damp proof nature of module. Prevents reduction in conversion efficiency of battery. Improves reliability for long period.    (US5707459-A)      A solar cell module comprises a solar cell encapsulated through a filler between a surface protective layer and a back face protective layer. The surface protective layer is welded with the back face protective layer by way of heat fusion to provide a heat fused portion at at least a side end portion of the solar cell module.    USE -   For power generation.    ADVANTAGE -   Excellent moisture resistance; reliable and stable operation over long periods even in adverse conditions of temp. and humidity.    (EP631328-B1)      A solar cell module comprises a solar cell encapsulated through a filler between a surface protective layer and a back face protective layer. The surface protective layer is welded with the back face protective layer by way of heat fusion to provide a heat fused portion at at least a side end portion of the solar cell module.    USE -   For power generation.    ADVANTAGE -   Excellent moisture resistance; reliable and stable operation over long periods even in adverse conditions of temp. and humidity.
(JP3098135-B2)      The fuel battery protection method uses a protective device to protect multilayered fuel batteries. The device is connected to any one of the many cells of a battery. A voltage measuring device (7) measures the output voltage of the cell. When the output voltage detector drops below the predetermined level, it initiates a control device (8) to shut off the battery operation.    ADVANTAGE -   Prevents damage to fuel battery due to operation at low voltages. Enables connection to any cell of battery. Prevents dangerous reaction due to abnormal reaction of gas. Provides simple and economical composition.
(JP3102969-B2)      The fuel battery device has a multilayer body. An electrolyte layer (3) is provided which is sandwiched between a fuel gas electrode (1) and oxidisation gas electrode (2). A separator (9) isolates these individual sets of electrode and electrolyte structure from one another. A quality change catalyser (11) is provided in the cavity type structure which is by the side of separator.    Two gas circulation paths are provided in the separator structure. In the upper portion (6) of this structure, the oxidisation gas is circulated. In the lower portion (5), fuel gas is circulator. The gas enters through a vertical manifold along the sides.    ADVANTAGE -   Prolongs life of quality catalyser. Enables easy set-up. Controls low temperature operating portion. Increases reliability.
(JP3154028-B2)      The fuel cell separator consists of a primary blank (6) into which are machined (by milling) by fuel and oxidising agent manifold holes, gas flow paths using attachment jig and milling cutters (12,21). The separator is fabricated out of a high temperature metal alloy e.g. inconel 601, SUS 3103, SUS 316L, hastelloy X etc. Later the separation surface is given a conductive oxide coating compatible with high temperature operation e.g. La(Sr)CoO3. The separator now functions as a spacer electrical contact in a battery of fuel cells.    ADVANTAGE -   Minimizes stresses induced during machining because of optimum cutter geometry. Obviates need for further polishing. Improves long term high temperature reliability.
(JP7022039-A)      Matrix for a molten carbonate fuel cell comprises gamma-lithium aluminate particles of dia. 4-10 m as main component. Prodn. of the matrix is also claimed.    ADVANTAGE -   Large dia. gamma-lithium aluminate particles can be produced at a low temp.    (US5427590-A)      A matrix for molten carbonate fuel cells is prepd. by grinding gamma-lithium aluminate particles and adding a solvent to give a stirred mixture. The mixt. is then satd. with ammonia gas before adding sodium metal to produce a ppte. which is separated, dried and sintered.    Pref. the solvent used is 2-propanol and sintering is at 600-1100 deg. C for 3-5hrs.    USE -   Used to produce fuel cell electrodes.    ADVANTAGE -   The coat of providing electrodes of good intensity and quality is substantially reduced.    (GB2279494-B)      A method of manufacturing a matrix for a molten carbonate fuel cell, comprising the steps of: grinding gamma-lithium aluminate particles; stirring the gamma-lithium aluminate particles in a solvent; saturating the stirred mixt. with ammonia gas and stirring again; adding sodium metal to the re-stirred mixt.; obtaining precipitates from the sodium-metal-added mixt.; and drying and sintering the precipitates.    (JP2820886-B2)      Matrix for a molten carbonate fuel cell comprises gamma-lithium aluminate particles of dia. 4-10 m as main component. Prodn. of the matrix is also claimed.    ADVANTAGE -   Large dia. gamma-lithium aluminate particles can be produced at a low temp.
(NL9300870-A)      Molten carbonate fuel cell stack comprises a series of fuel cells, each with an electrolyte plate, an anode, which can have current collector and anode gas distribution arrangement, cathode gas distributor, cathode, which can have current collector, with surrounding spacer plate with a centre opening for at least one gas distributor. Spacer plate material is Li aluminate and corresp. to material of electrolyte plate.    ADVANTAGE -   Thickness redn. of cell stack components during use of elevated temp. is compensated for.
(JP9512790-W)      4,6-dinitroresorcinol prepn. comprises reacting resorcinol with conc. nitric acid in the absence of suboxides of nitric acid.    USE -   4,6-dinitroresorcinol is a precursor for polybisbenzoxazoles, which are used in the mfr. of insulators, solar arrays and cut-resistant gloves.    ADVANTAGE -   The one step reaction provides high prod. yields, eg. greater than 60%, at high concns. without using any intermediate protected species.    (EP750605-B1)      4,6-dinitroresorcinol prepn. comprises reacting resorcinol with conc. nitric acid in the absence of suboxides of nitric acid.    USE -   4,6-dinitroresorcinol is a precursor for polybisbenzoxazoles, which are used in the mfr. of insulators, solar arrays and cut-resistant gloves.    ADVANTAGE -   The one step reaction provides high prod. yields, eg. greater than 60%, at high concns. without using any intermediate protected species.
(JP6325769-A)      In the cell natural gas or naphtha may be reformed or the fuel is coal and partial oxidn. and gasification serve as a power-generating reaction of the cell. The solid electrolyte is pref. ZrO2:Y2O3.    Fuel electrode for a solid oxide fuel cell comprising V carbide is claimed.    ADVANTAGE -   Electrode material is not poisoned with C and cell efficiency is high. In an internal reforming type cell only a small amt. of steam is needed, or no steam may be needed.    (JP2560232-B2)      In the cell natural gas or naphtha may be reformed or the fuel is coal and partial oxidn. and gasification serve as a power-generating reaction of the cell. The solid electrolyte is pref. ZrO2:Y2O3.    Fuel electrode for a solid oxide fuel cell comprising V carbide is claimed.    ADVANTAGE -   Electrode material is not poisoned with C and cell efficiency is high. In an internal reforming type cell only a small amt. of steam is needed, or no steam may be needed.    (US6183896-B1)      In the cell natural gas or naphtha may be reformed or the fuel is coal and partial oxidn. and gasification serve as a power-generating reaction of the cell. The solid electrolyte is pref. ZrO2:Y2O3.    Fuel electrode for a solid oxide fuel cell comprising V carbide is claimed.    ADVANTAGE -   Electrode material is not poisoned with C and cell efficiency is high. In an internal reforming type cell only a small amt. of steam is needed, or no steam may be needed.
(JP6350117-A)      Battery formation includes deposition of filling material (102) over an insulation layer (101). A photovoltaic element layer (103), a 2nd filling material layer (104), a hard film (105) and a top layer formed using 3-fluorochloroethylene-vinyl copolymer (106) are layered one over the other and installed on the 1st filling material. Opto-electrical conversion is performed by the active layer and transparent electroconductive layer. The top face provides face for light incidence. A paste is used to fix the photovoltaic element to the filling materials to form the required layers.    ADVANTAGE -   Improved stress withstanding capacity of solar battery. Improves scratch-proof quality of battery and safety factor. Avoid deterioration of photovoltaic parts by UV rays.
(US5437734-A)      A solar cell comprises (a) a 1st conducting type 1st semiconductor layer with a 1st electrode, (b) a second type 2nd semiconductor layer on the 1st semiconductor layer, with a 2nd electrode, (c) a 3rd semiconductor layer with a pn junction between the layers and with a band gap narrower than the 1st and 2nd layers, (d) a 1st buffer layer between the 1st and 3rd semiconductor layers to relieve the lattice mismatch between them, and (e) a 2nd buffer layer between the 2nd and 3rd semiconductor layers to relieve the mismatch between them. The 1st and 2nd semiconductor layers are Si, the 3rd semiconductor layer is Ge, the 1st buffer layer is n-type Si1-xGex and the 2nd buffer layer is p-type SixGe1-x.    ADVANTAGE -   Low cost and high conversion efficiency.
(DE4415238-C2)      The appts. includes an object carrier (4) which uses a connector (5) in the form of a linear support attached to a tensioned base member. In the region of the linear support (6) stretchable material is used with a stress equalising section of material (8).    The holder attaches an object (3) to a tensioned base membrane (1), e.g. a membrane Hull (2). The linear support has a zip-fastener style attachment, where the elements are interconnecting teeth and sockets. The application is optimised for solar cell attachment to Airship hulls.    ADVANTAGE -   Ease of interchange of attached device. Stressing of membrane hull is unaffected. Object is safely and easily held.
(DE4413652-C2)      The ergometer has a drive crank which can be operated by the user with variable revolution rate, a braking device, control electronics connected to a revolution rate sensor and a display (9).    At least one symbol can be shown on the display. The symbol can be controlled by the control electronics so that different ranges of the revolution rate are associated with different directions of motion of the symbol on the display. One revolution rate range is associated with the stationary symbol. A pattern can be displayed whose position and/or shape is independent of the revolution rate.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   The ergometer is designed so that heart circulation training is not the sole motivation for using it, i.e. it can be used for other types of training.
(DE4413215-C2)      Solar module comprises: (a) an Al substrate (1); (b) an electrically insulating oxide layer (2); (c) a back electrode layer (3, 5, 6); (d) an active semiconductor layer (7) having a diode structure; and (e) a front electrode (8) made of a transparent conducting oxide (TCO). The module is structured into integrated single solar cells connected in series and is made as a facade element.    Also claimed is a process for producing electrode surfaces (6) electrically sepd. from each other on an electrically conducting substrate (1).    USE -   As a thin layer solar module.
(GB2302710-A)      The extractor (10) comprises a plurality of independent modular units (11) with inlet and outlet pipes connected to common supply and delivery pipes. Each modular unit and three main floats (12) in the form of cylindrical chambers which float on the water. The axes of the floats are parallel and are coaxial with the floats of their modules. Each flat is attached to one end of two main cables (14) which are spaced symmetrically either side of the float centres.    The cable pass through a guide and support (15) which is anchored to the sea bed (16) by guys (17). The cables pass to cable drums (18) of two pump modules (30) located on the sea bed and are then attached to an auxiliary support float (19). Each cable incorporates a sheet bolt device (20) which allows the main float to breakaway if the wave action is too strong.    ADVANTAGE -   Use robust equipment which can be incorporated into a pumped water supply or a power station.    (GB2302710-B)      The extractor (10) comprises a plurality of independent modular units (11) with inlet and outlet pipes connected to common supply and delivery pipes. Each modular unit and three main floats (12) in the form of cylindrical chambers which float on the water. The axes of the floats are parallel and are coaxial with the floats of their modules. Each flat is attached to one end of two main cables (14) which are spaced symmetrically either side of the float centres.    The cable pass through a guide and support (15) which is anchored to the sea bed (16) by guys (17). The cables pass to cable drums (18) of two pump modules (30) located on the sea bed and are then attached to an auxiliary support float (19). Each cable incorporates a sheet bolt device (20) which allows the main float to breakaway if the wave action is too strong.    ADVANTAGE -   Use robust equipment which can be incorporated into a pumped water supply or a power station.
(US5722937-A)      The exercise apparatus (1) comprises a motor and a cycloidal speed reducer (49) having a high speed shaft and a low speed shaft. The shafts are operated such that the high speed shaft rotates faster than the low speed shaft.    A dynamometer (10) input shaft (57) is mounted on the low speed shaft, with an input shaft which engages with the limb or body segment of the user of the apparatus. The motor (30) is operatively connected to the high speed shaft such that the motor controls the rotation of that shaft. The reducer has one or more cycloidal discs symmetrically positioned about the high speed shaft.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   E.g. for physical rehabilitation, extremity limb testing, fitness, excercise, sports medicine, etc. Does not require user to exert large force to begin movement of input arm. Creates concentric or eccentric motion or other desired modes.
(GB2288550-B)      The device comprises a base member (1) and a top member or platform (2). The base member has an outer wall (3) defining a recess (4) in the middle of which is a flat-topped pillar (5) of square shape in plan. The platform (2) is a flat board on the top surface of which are marked defined areas. The base floor incorporates separate microswitches (C) one above the other, one per area, and the downward movement of the board in that area urges the contacts of the switch together. Alternatively the switch contact (C1) is mounted on the underside of the platform (2), one per area and a complementary contact (C2) is mounted on the floor of the recess, one for each area. In both cases the switches are connected to PCB circuitry leading via a cable (6) to a VDU on which a computer game can be displayed and played.    When there is no pressure on the platform (2), the platform is horizontal so that all the switches are in the off position and will tend to revert to that condition at all times. When pressure is applied e.g. by a person standing on the board or moving away from an area of the board the platform will contact the base and send an electrical signal according to which the microswitch is depressed via the cable to the game to cause play.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   For children who suffer from body coordination as in mild cerebral palsy. Simple design and robust in use, so that patients themselves can use equipment without carers.
(JP7227439-A)      The stepper type fitness appts. has a frame, a crank pedal, a drive and a control. The drive comprises a shaft extending transversely along a pair of bearings in a base frame. The drive shaft has a sprocket and left and right freewheel sprockets and has an accelerator fixed to one side with a large pulley on the other side. A load device (1) is disposed below the accelerator.    The load device has a pair of thin rotary discs (2, 2), each half the size of the conventional rotary disc, arranged parallel on a shaft (3) which is supported by bearings (7) and frames (6). An electromagnet (4) on the side surface side of the discs generates magnetic flux to cause a brake torque to act on the discs. The electromagnet has a stator (4a) and a coil (4b) and is connected to the control.    ADVANTAGE -   Provides accurate control as the load varies.
(DE19581572-T)      The appts for connecting an exercise bicycle to a computer equipped with a game control device having a continuously variable resistance, e.g an IBM PC/AT equipped with a joystick adapter converts the two states of the exercise bicycle e.g pedalling and not pedalling into three states required by racing simulations e.g braking, coasting and accelerating, using a non- linear element.    Pedalling at speeds lower than a cross-over value is converted into various degrees of braking, while pedalling at speeds higher than the threshold value is converted into various degrees of acceleration. The cross-over pedalling speed which is converted to a resistance equal to that of a joystick in its middle position is lower than half the maximum speed.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   Maintaining motivation during fitness session by allowing user to play computer games and control speed of character in game, e.g car or aircraft, by varying rate of exercise e.g pedalling speed.    (US5839990-A)      The appts for connecting an exercise bicycle to a computer equipped with a game control device having a continuously variable resistance, e.g an IBM PC/AT equipped with a joystick adapter converts the two states of the exercise bicycle e.g pedalling and not pedalling into three states required by racing simulations e.g braking, coasting and accelerating, using a non- linear element.    Pedalling at speeds lower than a cross-over value is converted into various degrees of braking, while pedalling at speeds higher than the threshold value is converted into various degrees of acceleration. The cross-over pedalling speed which is converted to a resistance equal to that of a joystick in its middle position is lower than half the maximum speed.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   Maintaining motivation during fitness session by allowing user to play computer games and control speed of character in game, e.g car or aircraft, by varying rate of exercise e.g pedalling speed.
(US5717255-A)      The semiconductor device has a semiconductor element (10) provided with a couple of output terminals (130a,130c). A set of metal foils (150a,150c) are furnished over the output terminal. A couple of openings (21a,21c) are formed at the sides of the metal foils. A protection film (20) covers the semiconductor device surface including the peripherals top part of the metal foil.    ADVANTAGE -   Raises connection intensity of metal foil. Improves reliability. Prevents moisture entry into device.    (US5872050-A)      The semiconductor device has a semiconductor element (10) provided with a couple of output terminals (130a,130c). A set of metal foils (150a,150c) are furnished over the output terminal. A couple of openings (21a,21c) are formed at the sides of the metal foils. A protection film (20) covers the semiconductor device surface including the peripherals top part of the metal foil.    ADVANTAGE -   Raises connection intensity of metal foil. Improves reliability. Prevents moisture entry into device.
(US5872406-A)      The power generation system includes primary systems (100,200,300) which produce electrical energy. A hollow movable tank (10) suspended in a support structure (11) via telescopic cylinders (12) has valves (13) controlling air and water flow producing potential energy.    The enclosure system includes concrete barrier walls and a bottom (16,17) on the sea bed. Turbines (19) generate energy as gate valves (21) control flow. The bellows system uses a hollow stationary tank (22) and bellows tank (23) in conjunction with the enclosure system. A buoyant mass-actuated piston system in which the movement of floating objects, such as docked ships, relative to the tide my be used to generate electrical power.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   Is effective at wide range of installation sites and does not affect fragile seashore and estuary ecosystems and will produce electrical energy over entire tidal cycle.    (EP749529-B1)      The power generation system includes primary systems (100,200,300) which produce electrical energy. A hollow movable tank (10) suspended in a support structure (11) via telescopic cylinders (12) has valves (13) controlling air and water flow producing potential energy.    The enclosure system includes concrete barrier walls and a bottom (16,17) on the sea bed. Turbines (19) generate energy as gate valves (21) control flow. The bellows system uses a hollow stationary tank (22) and bellows tank (23) in conjunction with the enclosure system. A buoyant mass-actuated piston system in which the movement of floating objects, such as docked ships, relative to the tide my be used to generate electrical power.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   Is effective at wide range of installation sites and does not affect fragile seashore and estuary ecosystems and will produce electrical energy over entire tidal cycle.
(JP3106835-B2)      The device has a number of solar cells connected mutually and installed on a roof (22) by fixing the crosspiece material (23) in series with the plate like roofing material (21) incorporating the solar cell. The direction of crosspiece material and the connecting direction of the solar cell are to be made in parallel.    An output reduction of each element by the shadow of the crosspiece material becomes uniform to each connected element.    ADVANTAGE -   Shadow by crosspiece material fixed in roofing material is reduced to minimum value.
(JP3096751-B2)      The hydroelectric power generation equipment comprises a water turbine (1) installed at the exit side of a pen stock (3), and driven by a dynamo (4). The pen stock is connected to a water supply tank (2). A valve operating mechanism (7) is provided to open and close an inlet valve based on the pressure, in a pilot pipe (13).    The mechanism is located on the upstream side of the water turbine. A pilot pipe with a solenoid valve (15), is connected to the valve operating mechanism. The pilot pipe is connected to the downstream side of the valve operating mechanism and the water turbine. When the power supply is intercepted by the dynamo, the solenoid valve is closed.    ADVANTAGE -   Prevents water turbine from rotating at high speed when power supply is intercepted by dynamo. Reduces cost. Enables usage of standard goods such as dynamo.
(US5575587-A)      A tide-operated driving system comprising:    a variable air chamber having a broad bottom opening disposed under the water of the sea below the elevation of the ebb tide and a small top opening communicated with said broad bottom opening and disposed above the elevation of the flow tide, the inner diameter of said variable air chamber reducing gradually from said broad bottom opening toward said small top opening; and    a motor having a center shaft, a plurality of centrifugal type vanes spaced around said center shaft, a first air port and second said center shaft disposed tangent to the periphery of said vanes in reversed directions, said first air port communicating with said small top opening for allowing reciprocating currents of air, which are induced by the movement of the tide, to pass through said vanes in a fixed direction, causing said vanes to rotate said center shaft said vanes being of two different lengths alternatively arranged around said center shaft for guiding the reciprocating flow of air from one air port to the other through the center of said rotor.
(CN1120265-A)      The speed-variable pumped-storage electric generator comprises the first speed controller for controlling water pump and outputting excitation control signal to AC exciting unit of electric generatoraccording to power output instruction and the second speed controller for controlling AC excitation output from the AC exciting unit when rotational speed of shaft is deviated from upper or lower limit settings in electric generation mode.    (JP3144451-B2)      The generator has a reversible pump turbine with an attached rotor that rotates at variable speed. It has a first speed control device which passes a speed control command to the reversible pump turbine.    It has a second speed control device which regulates its power and performs a backup speed control when the rotational speed of the reversible pump turbine is below the minimum value of the normal turbine speed operation range or above the maximum value of the normal turbine speed operation range. A minimum set point lower than the minimum value of the normal operation range is made for starting the turbine operation.    ADVANTAGE -   Stabilises continuation operation of turbine without deviating from adjusted reference speed range.
(NL9500268-A)      A generator (10) of similar construction to a Tesla turbine has a rotor (12) whose working surfaces are formed by a number of interleaving conical laminas of plastic (16) on a central axis (13) free to rotate within a cylindrical housing (11) whose periphery is comprised of hinged vertical louvres (20a).    The rotor (12) is connected to a generator (24) by the shaft (13) and the conical laminas (16) as positioned by the torque transmission disc (14), coupling stems (26) and spacers (not shown).    Fluid inflow (33) which may be air or water enters via the appropriate louvres and viscous drag over the conical surfaces propels the rotor (12) as the fluid (33) turns through 90 deg. and exits via the centre (28).    USE/ADVANTAGE -   For e.g. wind power generator. Responds to limited air or water currents and operates with higher working efficiency than flat disc rotors. Action can be reversed by electric propulsion of rotor which promotes fluid pump action.    (DE4416560-C2)      A generator (10) of similar construction to a Tesla turbine has a rotor (12) whose working surfaces are formed by a number of interleaving conical laminas of plastic (16) on a central axis (13) free to rotate within a cylindrical housing (11) whose periphery is comprised of hinged vertical louvres (20a).    The rotor (12) is connected to a generator (24) by the shaft (13) and the conical laminas (16) as positioned by the torque transmission disc (14), coupling stems (26) and spacers (not shown).    Fluid inflow (33) which may be air or water enters via the appropriate louvres and viscous drag over the conical surfaces propels the rotor (12) as the fluid (33) turns through 90 deg. and exits via the centre (28).    USE/ADVANTAGE -   For e.g. wind power generator. Responds to limited air or water currents and operates with higher working efficiency than flat disc rotors. Action can be reversed by electric propulsion of rotor which promotes fluid pump action.
(WO9706366-A1)      The power-generating mechanism is mounted across a waterway adjacent a dam and comprises a vertically adjustable support including a platform sized extend across the waterway adjacent the downstream side of the dam. Support members extend from the platform in spaced-relationship in order to suspend a waterwheel unit. The waterwheel unit includes a waterwheel its length being greater than the diameter. The wheel is composed of an impervious cylinder and circular end plates respectively fixed to the opposite ends fo the cylinder in order to form a watertight enclosure.    Several buckets, are spaced evenly around the circumference of the cylinder and fixed at one edge. An electric generator unit is mounted axially within the cylinder and comprises a rotor disposed axially within a stator and drive operably connecting the waterwheel to the rotor.    ADVANTAGE -   Angle and depth of flow onto waterwheel can be varied with changes in rate of water discharge.
(JP8063090-A)      The human mobility simulator has a base located on a support surface, and a platform attached to the base and being rotatable about a vertical axis. A steering post extends upwardly from the platform, and has a seat attached at the upper end.    A torque sensor is located between the seat and the post, and senses a displacement about the vertical axis. A power source responds to the detected torque for rotating the platform relative to the base. The steering post is insertable into a tubular shaft, and a user wears a head mounted display for viewing different scenes in response to display signals.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   E.g. for simulating steepness of terrain to test user's reactions, stamina and behaviour in given environment.
(GB2286228-B)      The fluid powered electricity generator (20) comprises the housing (22) defining inlets (24a-24d) and an outlet (26). The rotor (28) is rotatably mounted in the housing (22) and defines radially extending blades (30) spaced around the circumference of the rotor, the housing inlets (24a-24d) being arranged such that the flow of fluid approaching the rotor (28) is substantially tangential to it.    The energy convertor, such as a dynamo is linked to the rotor (28) for converting the rotational energy of the rotor into electricity. The generator (20) may be placed in a stream or river in conjunction with a dam, weir or intake chute or may be mounted in the keel or rudder of a boat.    ADVANTAGE -   Can be mfd. with readily available low cost materials and can be installed or re-sited with minimal capital expense.
(DE4401782-C2)      The method for manufacturing flat emitter contacts between contact fingers formed by template stamp or screen process for solar cell contacts and using an antireflection layer contains the following steps: (a) the complete solar cell (10) with contacts and without antireflection layer is pre-warmed in demineralised water; (b) the surface (5) of the emitter layer (1) between contact fingers (4) is etched in a basic solution at a temperature of 50 deg.C to 80 deg.C.; (c) the surface is rinsed in demineralised water and then (d) dried. The etching solution is 1 to 10% KOH solution.    ADVANTAGE -   Improved conversion efficiency in blue light.
(BE1007840-A6)      The wheel comprises a frame (1) and a rotor (2). The rotor has a shaft (3) with a flywheel (4) in its middle and a number of rotor elements (5) on each side of the flywheel. Each element consists of a couple of vanes (6) evenly distributed around the shaft. Each couple has a pair of diametrically situated vanes each with two spokes (7) standing radially on the shaft. The ends of the spokes are backwards in relation to the direction of rotation (8) and are connected together by a connecting rod.    Each blade is hinged to the spokes with its side turned away from the shaft by two pins (11) which are bearing mounted in the spokes to form a hinge pin. Each blade has a stop (12) on the spokes. Each blade consists of several lamellas (13) hinged together with the outer lamella rotatably fixed to the spokes. The frame has a bottom piece (18) with two bulkheads (19,20) which extends under the rotor.    ADVANTAGE -   Has very solid frame which reduces the risk of damage to the rotor virtually nil.
(ZA9501971-A)      An apparatus for generating electrical energy from the tidal movements of water, comprises an enclosure is securely fixed to the floor of the body of water, and is formed by substantially vertical walls and a substantially horizontal bottom. The walls extend above the extreme high tide level and below the extreme low tide level of the body of water, and the walls are adapted with units for selectively directing water to flow in and out of the enclosure through turbines operatively associated with the walls. At least one substantially hollow moveable tank is adapted with units for selectively allowing water and air to flow in and out of the tank.    A support includes a rigid frame and a hydraulic cylinder operatively associated with the moveable tank to allow for vertical movement of the tank. The hydraulic cylinder is in fluid communication with hydraulic fluid that is pressurized in response to the upward and downward vertical movements of the tank. A device stores the pressurized hydraulic fluid, and a locking device is operatively associated with the support for selectively retaining the tank at specific positions in the vertical plane relative to the tide level of the body of water. A turbine associated with the device for storing pressurized hydraulic fluid that generates power as the pressurized hydraulic fluid is released into the turbine.    ADVANTAGE -   Is amendable to large-scale deployment and produces significant quantities of electrical energy. produces energy over entire 12 hour and 25 minute tidal cycle.
(US5433681-A)      The exercise stand includes a frame, a positioning device provided on the frame for supporting a first hub of the drive wheel to position the drive wheel. A holding device is provided opposite to the positioning device for supporting a second hub of the drive wheel.    The positioning device is moveable between contracted and extended positions. A pedal device is provided with the frame and connected with the holding device for pivoting the holding device. It is arranged such that actuating the pedal device causes the holding device to travel on an arcuate path towards and away from the second hub.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   For simulating actual cycling. Easy set up, reduced noise generated by contact between body and tyre, while enabled smooth pedalling operation.
(JP7221339-A)      The semiconductor device includes a rear contact metallisation on a rear surface of a substrate. A given number of semiconductor layers are placed on the front surface of the substrate. A front contact metallisation is placed on a front surface of a selected semiconductor layer. Given areas of the substrate are thinned to form a given structural pattern.    The pattern includes an external frame and several interconnected beams which support the thin substrate. Some of the semiconductor layers are photovoltaic layers with an anti-reflection coating layer. The substrate is gallium arsenide, germanium or silicon.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   For high power device fabrication wherein substrate thickness limits ability to dissipate, e.g. heat. Allows for mfr. of mechanically robust, high output solar cells e.g. for satellites. Robust due to resistance to crack propagation. High efficiency and light weight solar cells.
(JP7250916-A)      An extension arm (11, 34) can be attached to a column (2) at any height and with different angles. A foot holder (15, 16) is movable arranged on the extension arm (11, 34). The foot holder (15, 16) can be moved against the force of a tension cable (8) along the arm (11). A load unit (4) which is programmed by means of an operating device (21) acts on the cable (8) to preselect the load characteristics.    Another extension (34) for arm training can also be attached to the column (2). The foot or hand holders (15, 16) move against the force of the load on the cable (8) by muscle action. Different types of extension (11, 34) can be attached to the column for different types of training. Pref., a DC motor acts on the holder (15) via a traction rope (8).    USE/ADVANTAGE -   Provides number of different training possibilities on same basic apparatus without needing to change weights or mechanism.
(NL9301956-A)      The device converts the force exerted upon a support into an electrical signal, and has a bending bar (9) which is supported freely, but non-rotationally, in a bearing column (8) of box-like cross-section, and which is provided with at least two strain gauges (16) which are staggered relative to each other in the peripheral direction. A bracket (14) is mounted rotatably on the bending bar, and on which the support is fixed.    The strain gauges emit electrical signals, from which the magnitude of the exerted force and the angle at which the force is exerted upon the support can be derived.    ADVANTAGE -   Measurements can be carried out simply and with great accuracy.    (EP737044-A1)      The device converts the force exerted upon a support into an electrical signal, and has a bending bar (9) which is supported freely, but non-rotationally, in a bearing column (8) of box-like cross-section, and which is provided with at least two strain gauges (16) which are staggered relative to each other in the peripheral direction. A bracket (14) is mounted rotatably on the bending bar, and on which the support is fixed.    The strain gauges emit electrical signals, from which the magnitude of the exerted force and the angle at which the force is exerted upon the support can be derived.    ADVANTAGE -   Measurements can be carried out simply and with great accuracy.
(WO9512068-A1)      A body is attached to a carriage movable transverse to a flow on a guide bed (14). The carriage is coupled to a transducer which converts its movement into useful energy. The control head (10) forms the connection between the body (12) and the carriage (16).    The control head can set the angle of inclination of the body wrt. the flow direction according to the speed of the carriage. The angle of the body is adjustable within a range of angles whose upper limit is determined by the carriage speed and the useful energy e.g. electrical or pneumatic energy, to be produced.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   For controlling a body which can undergo reciprocal motion under the influence of a flow. The control head enables the angle of the body wrt. the flow to be optimised.    (DE4336894-C2)      A body is attached to a carriage movable transverse to a flow on a guide bed (14). The carriage is coupled to a transducer which converts its movement into useful energy. The control head (10) forms the connection between the body (12) and the carriage (16).    The control head can set the angle of inclination of the body wrt. the flow direction according to the speed of the carriage. The angle of the body is adjustable within a range of angles whose upper limit is determined by the carriage speed and the useful energy e.g. electrical or pneumatic energy, to be produced.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   For controlling a body which can undergo reciprocal motion under the influence of a flow. The control head enables the angle of the body wrt. the flow to be optimised.
(WO9512434-A1)      The variable resistance exercise device includes at least one rotating force transmitting unit for inputting a user applied force as a rotational force to be resisted, and at least one force transmission member for transmitting the user applied force. The user applied force is resisted by varying the viscosity of a viscosity variable fluid which surround plates rotated by the user applied force. Thus a braking force is applied to actively resist the user applied force.    A multi-configurable multi-programmable exercise device is provided which may be used in a variety of exercise modes to provide a resistive force to a user-applied force during a range of motion of a particular exercise. Pref. a variable resistor resists a user-supplied force in one rotational direction only. A gear and clutch system translates a reciprocating user-supplied force, corresponding to a reciprocating range of motion, into the one rotational direction.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   Provides variable resisting force in response to user applied force. Provides isometric, isotonic, isokinetic, and cardiovascular exercises selectively. Variable resistance can be used in machine control, robotics, vibration dampening, wire drawing, vehicle shock absorbers, and other applications where controlled rotational and linear force braking is desired.
(US5456262-A)      A method for measuring a heartbeat pulse of a person using an exercise device for physical performance, the method comprising the steps of:    programming the exercise device to provide an exercise program for a user of the device to perform;    detecting a heartbeat pulse during the performance of the exercise program and transmitting heartbeat pulse signals corresponding to said heartbeat pulse detected with a transmitter attached to the user;    receiving the transmitted heartbeat pulse signals with a receiver connected to the exercise device;    processing the received heartbeat pulse signals; and    calculating a mean heartbeat pulse value from all of the heartbeat pulse signals received during the performance of the program and displaying the calculated mean heartbeat pulse value to the user at the end of the program.    (EP650695-B1)      The method of measuring the heartbeat pulse of a person during exercise involves programming the exercise device to provide a sequence of exercise to the exerciser, and detecting and transmitting during the exercise, a heartbeat pulse signal with electrodes and a transmitter attached to the exerciser. The transmitted pulse signal is received by a receiver connected to the exercise machine.    The received pulse signal is processed, and a mean pulse value is calculated during the exercise, and the calculated value is presented to the user.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   Measurement of heartbeat of person during physical performance on exercise device e.g cycle ergometer, rowing machine or treadmill etc. Provides mean pulse value as index to allow interruption of exercise when index is reached.
(JP3141641-B2)      The primary operation device controls the water level of the large-scale machine (No.1). The small capacity machine (No.2) operates when the dam water-level is very low. The discharge limitation curvilinear component (16) memorises the curve of the water-level convection and outputs a discharge limitation rate-of-flow set points based on the input of outlet water-level detection value.    The comparison change-over device (25) switches the rate-of-flow set point inputted into the first bias ratio-control component (27) to a discharge system rate-of-flow set point.    ADVANTAGE -   Increases load to efficiently operate water wheel; generates power gradually to regulate downstream river water-level.
(JP3100805-B2)      The overvoltage protection device is provided with a DC power supply (3) to supply DC voltage to an inverter (2). A capacitor (18) is connected across the set of decoders in the inverter and smoothens the DC voltage. A chopper circuit (40) is equipped with a switching element and a resistance (31) connected in series. The circuit is connected to the secondary winding of a wrapping linear induction machine (1). A thyristor short circuit device (59) consists of a number of resistors (13-55) connected in series to set of thyristor pairs (50- 52).    A voltage detector (41) detects the inverter and power supply link circuit voltage. A number of voltage detectors (56- 58) are used to detect three phase line voltage in the secondary winding of the induction machine. The link circuit voltage detector sends a signal to control the ON/OFF operation of the switching element. A gate pulse generator (60) controls the ON/OFF operation of the thyristor element. The power generation system is protected against influence of overvoltage.    ADVANTAGE -   Reduces cost and size. Returns quickly to normal operation after fault clearance.
(JP2987733-B2)      The centring measuring method involves the setting of measuring conditions and position fixing of piano-wire by a fixation means. The result of the measurement is displayed using a display means. The attachment object is subjected to position control. The level measurement recording of each attachment object is fed to a measurement means. The survey data is subjected to correction and required conversion process. The amount of piano-wire movement depends on a minute vector along axial direction in the orthogonal plane of coordinates. The output of the measurement means appears in the pattern edited outline shape. The test results are documented on a record book and displayed on screen.    ADVANTAGE -   Increases measuring accuracy. Reduces measuring time. Standardises installation work. Enables piano-wire migration and automatic survey. Provides easy and spot measurement.
(EP712324-A1)      The exercise cycle has a drive wheel (40) which receives both user driving force and automatically controlled friction brake resistance in a single stage device. Freewheeling is pivoted between a user driven shaft and the periphery of the drive wheel, which is braked by a friction belt (60).    Automatic resistance control is provided by an electronic system which receives actual load information from a load cell and speed information from a speed sensor. The friction belt is tightened or loosened by a motor driven pulley in response to signals indicating an error between load command and the actual load.    ADVANTAGE -   Automatic adjustment. Does not require additional stages in cycle. Does not require heavy-duty transmission. Smooth functioning. High endurance.    (US5643146-A)      A stationary exercise cycle, comprising:    a rotor having an outer brake-engaging portion and a central hub portion;    a driving unit for the rotor which includes user-driven pedals, arms carrying the pedals, and a rotating element whose axis of rotation coincides with the axis of rotation of the rotor;    a one-way clutch between the rotating element and the hub of the rotor which permits the rotating element to drive the rotor but not to be driven by the rotor;    a braking device adapted to engage the outer portion of the rotor for the purpose of resisting its rotation in order to create a load opposing the user's effort;    a momentum-storing device; and    a connection between the momentum-storing device and the rotor which tends to maintain the rotating speed of the rotor.
(DE4325634-C2)      The solar cell consists of several, not necessarily identical sized individual bodies in the semiconductor body (1). They are made of gallium arsenide, and the body contains a pn-junction and is suitable for sun light absorption. The semiconductor material contains a grid-forming contact system (21) on its front side and an anti-reflex layer (3) on a support (4), pref. a cover glass. The contact system and the anti-reflex layer are interconnected in series and/or in parallel via metal connecting links (61, 62).    ADVANTAGE -   High stability and reliable coupling.
(US5462509-A)      An exercise device adapted to be fastened laterally around a body of a user at hip, waist or shoulder level comprising:    a elongated body portion adapted to contact the body of the user, said body portion including first and second ends that are spaced in a lateral direction;    means for fastening said body portion to a user at hip, waist or shoulder level, said fastening means extending laterally outwardly from the first and second ends of said body portion;    means to reduce or ease friction between the device and a floor or wall when the exercise device is in use, the friction reducing means being held by the body portion so that, in use, the friction reducing means is spaced from the body of the user, said friction reducing means including a plurality of laterally spaced rollers rotatably attached to said body portion for rotation about respective axes which are substantially perpendicular to said lateral direction.
(WO9502793-A1)      The hybrid solar panel includes a housing made from a sheet metal tank (1) and a radiation transparent plate (7) attached onto the sheet metal tank. The housing contains an absorber (9) for converting the solar radiation into heat.    Photovoltaic cells (20) in the housing convert the solar radiation onto electrical energy. The housing is evacuated. The photovoltaic cells are arranged in the region of the housing walls. In one embodiment the photovoltaic cells are mounted on the inner side of the plate.    ADVANTAGE -   Output of electrical energy is improved for steady heat output.
(WO9503628-A1)      The serial connection system uses a transparent front electrode (FE) applied over the full surface of a transparent substrate (S) and divided into electrode strips (FE1,..), before deposition of a photovoltaic thin-film semiconductor layer (HL) and a rear electrode (REE). The thin-film semiconductor layer is structured in accordance with the electrode strips to provide individual solar cells, via a laser, with a second laser wavelength used to provide low-ohmic regions in the semiconductor layer, for connecting the rear electrode of a first solar cell with the front electrode of the next solar cell.    ADVANTAGE -   Allows structuring and serial connection in single process via asymmetrical laser.    (JP9500236-W)      The serial connection system uses a transparent front electrode (FE) applied over the full surface of a transparent substrate (S) and divided into electrode strips (FE1,..), before deposition of a photovoltaic thin-film semiconductor layer (HL) and a rear electrode (REE). The thin-film semiconductor layer is structured in accordance with the electrode strips to provide individual solar cells, via a laser, with a second laser wavelength used to provide low-ohmic regions in the semiconductor layer, for connecting the rear electrode of a first solar cell with the front electrode of the next solar cell.    ADVANTAGE -   Allows structuring and serial connection in single process via asymmetrical laser.
(WO9615559-A1)      Solar power system includes a photovoltaic component for converting solar energy to another form of energy and    device for reflecting sunlight onto the photovoltaic component. The reflecting device comprises a number of elongated, rectangular, flat, individually rotatable primary mirrors, each of which has a longitudinal centreline and an axis of rotation which is coextensive with the centreline.    Primary mirrors are supported on a first device so that the longitudinal centrelines and the axes of rotation of all the primary mirrors are located in the same plane, and the second device supports each of the primary mirrors so that each can be rotated about its axis of rotation independently of the other such that the number of primary mirrors provides a concn. of sunlight beam width which can be varied by rotating one or more of the primary mirrors. An individually rotatable secondary mirror receives the concn. of sunlight from the primary mirrors.    ADVANTAGE -   Permits retrofitting of components having different sizes, permits use of single or dual axis sunlight tracker with relatively high tolerance to reflector misalignment with the sun's rays and allows system to be manufactured at low cost.
(EP702582-A1)      The apparatus comprises an electrical motor (10) which drives a worm gear box (1) with an output shaft (5). A force drum is (11) fixedly attached to the gear box. A first pulley is attached to a first spring and a second pulley is attached to a second spring. A length of cable (20) is reeved to each of the two pulleys, the intermediate length being partially wound about the force drum.    A speed control drum is mounted onto the output shaft. A return pulley is connected to a return spring and a second cable is tied to the return pulley and partially wound about the speed control drum. A second speed control drum is located on the output shaft with a length of the second cable wound on it. The drums are mounted to a shaft via a unidirectional clutch bearing.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   User does not have to perform any adaptive modification to perform multiple training methods including isotonic resistance.
(US5697869-A)      The exercise apparatus comprises a frame and a constant speed drive (10) mounted on the frame. An output shaft (20) rotates in a preselected direction at a constant speed independent of the torque loading. A user force application member has a point for exertion. A one-way clutch couples the user force to the output shaft. The member is turned from an initial position in a preselected direction.    A force spring (40) is operationally interposed between the application point for user force on the member and the one-way clutch to provide a spring biasing resistance to applied force to turn the member in the preselected direction. A rewind biasing arrangement is connected to the user member and biased to return the member to the initial position.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   Does not constrain user to respond to set load patterns, but creates demands based on varying strength and applied effort. Collects data on work out for feedback.    (US6050920-A)      The exercise apparatus comprises a frame and a constant speed drive (10) mounted on the frame. An output shaft (20) rotates in a preselected direction at a constant speed independent of the torque loading. A user force application member has a point for exertion. A one-way clutch couples the user force to the output shaft. The member is turned from an initial position in a preselected direction.    A force spring (40) is operationally interposed between the application point for user force on the member and the one-way clutch to provide a spring biasing resistance to applied force to turn the member in the preselected direction. A rewind biasing arrangement is connected to the user member and biased to return the member to the initial position.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   Does not constrain user to respond to set load patterns, but creates demands based on varying strength and applied effort. Collects data on work out for feedback.
(JP3143642-B2)      Discharge seawater is introduced into an overflow tank from a discharge pit. Turbine generator is driven by seawater dropped from the tank through a bubble prevention unit.    ADVANTAGE -   Seawater can be supplied to the generator without generating bubbles.
(DE19515786-C2)      A solar energy system has a device (mc) to ascertain the operating point of a solar generator, located between the generator and the load (l). There is a converter (D) attached to the device which controls the power to the load, deduced from the operating point.    The system comprises at least two solar-powered DC generators (pl,pr) connected in parallel with the same voltage/current characteristic, each in series with a current-limiting element (dl,dr). There are also two calculation units, the first one (ml,mr) using the output signals of the current limiters and the second one (not shown) using the difference between them.    ADVANTAGE -   Simple design with high efficiency without being influenced by environmental changes or aging of barrier layer photocell.
(DE4415238-C2)      The appts. includes an object carrier (4) which uses a connector (5) in the form of a linear support attached to a tensioned base member. In the region of the linear support (6) stretchable material is used with a stress equalising section of material (8).    The holder attaches an object (3) to a tensioned base membrane (1), e.g. a membrane Hull (2). The linear support has a zip-fastener style attachment, where the elements are interconnecting teeth and sockets. The application is optimised for solar cell attachment to Airship hulls.    ADVANTAGE -   Ease of interchange of attached device. Stressing of membrane hull is unaffected. Object is safely and easily held.
(WO9529212-A1)      Treatment plant for a combination of unsorted industrial and/or domestic and/or urban and/or hospital waste using two energy converters mounted in tandem is disclosed. One is an electrically heated fixed thermolyser and the other is a steam or electric generator. The two are driven by an expert system to optimise the combination of waste.    The molecules in the waste are cracked at 450-650 C in a first thermal electric converter without preliminary drying, after crushing the waste with the exception of tyres which remain whole. The installation produces two phases. The first is solid (metals are sorted magnetically for ferrous, by Foucault current for non-ferrous) and carbonated dehalogenated solids before they are put in a form for sale (briquettes or balls) or storage. The other is gaseous and is immediately useable for generating electricity or steam.    USE -   Treatment of waste in a system which is non-polluting, secure and affordable.
(JP7297429-A)      The solar battery cell consists of a p type semiconductor substrate (1). A first n type layer (2a) when a p type layer, are formed on either main side surfaces of the substrate. The multiple second n type layers (2b-2d) are formed on the side connecting the first and the second main sides of the substrate. The p type layer has impurity density higher than that of substrate. The second n type layer has impurity density lower than that of first n type layer.    ADVANTAGE -   Prevents accidents such as short circuit destructions and fire by normal heat emission. Reduces mfg cost.
(DE4413215-C2)      Solar module comprises: (a) an Al substrate (1); (b) an electrically insulating oxide layer (2); (c) a back electrode layer (3, 5, 6); (d) an active semiconductor layer (7) having a diode structure; and (e) a front electrode (8) made of a transparent conducting oxide (TCO). The module is structured into integrated single solar cells connected in series and is made as a facade element.    Also claimed is a process for producing electrode surfaces (6) electrically sepd. from each other on an electrically conducting substrate (1).    USE -   As a thin layer solar module.
(GB2302710-A)      The extractor (10) comprises a plurality of independent modular units (11) with inlet and outlet pipes connected to common supply and delivery pipes. Each modular unit and three main floats (12) in the form of cylindrical chambers which float on the water. The axes of the floats are parallel and are coaxial with the floats of their modules. Each flat is attached to one end of two main cables (14) which are spaced symmetrically either side of the float centres.    The cable pass through a guide and support (15) which is anchored to the sea bed (16) by guys (17). The cables pass to cable drums (18) of two pump modules (30) located on the sea bed and are then attached to an auxiliary support float (19). Each cable incorporates a sheet bolt device (20) which allows the main float to breakaway if the wave action is too strong.    ADVANTAGE -   Use robust equipment which can be incorporated into a pumped water supply or a power station.    (GB2302710-B)      The extractor (10) comprises a plurality of independent modular units (11) with inlet and outlet pipes connected to common supply and delivery pipes. Each modular unit and three main floats (12) in the form of cylindrical chambers which float on the water. The axes of the floats are parallel and are coaxial with the floats of their modules. Each flat is attached to one end of two main cables (14) which are spaced symmetrically either side of the float centres.    The cable pass through a guide and support (15) which is anchored to the sea bed (16) by guys (17). The cables pass to cable drums (18) of two pump modules (30) located on the sea bed and are then attached to an auxiliary support float (19). Each cable incorporates a sheet bolt device (20) which allows the main float to breakaway if the wave action is too strong.    ADVANTAGE -   Use robust equipment which can be incorporated into a pumped water supply or a power station.
(EP832354-A1)      The device comprises a rectifying (17) which is attached to the top of the a tube (13). The turbine rotor rotates in the same direction regardless of the air moving through it. The tube has a float (14) and a ballast (15) which are spaced apart along the length of the tube such that the tube floats upright in the water. The tube is long enough to extend into the calm water below the effective wave base (12).    As the tube rises on the crest of a wave, the lower end of the tube remains below the effective wave base and so if there were no fluid resistance in the tube the water level (16) in the tube would remain substantially at sea level (11). The results in a lengthening of the column of air between the water level and the upper free end of the tube.    USE -   Device which can be used offshore, in inland freshwater lakes or deep oceans.    (US5770893-A)      The device comprises a rectifying (17) which is attached to the top of the a tube (13). The turbine rotor rotates in the same direction regardless of the air moving through it. The tube has a float (14) and a ballast (15) which are spaced apart along the length of the tube such that the tube floats upright in the water. The tube is long enough to extend into the calm water below the effective wave base (12).    As the tube rises on the crest of a wave, the lower end of the tube remains below the effective wave base and so if there were no fluid resistance in the tube the water level (16) in the tube would remain substantially at sea level (11). The results in a lengthening of the column of air between the water level and the upper free end of the tube.    USE -   Device which can be used offshore, in inland freshwater lakes or deep oceans.
(EP678714-B1)      Solar energy non-evacuated CPC type collector for heating fluids up to 120C comprises a rectangular box (1) of smaller height than the width and length. The top (2) is formed of a transparent sheet whose frame is formed by a rigid profile sealed by a gasket of resilient material. Inside the box is a plate (7) of rigid insulating material, pref. of polyurethane, contacting the inside of the bottom of the box, the bottom pref. being of PVC. The top surface of the material is covered by a reflecting material (7) having several troughs (8, 8') between two parallel planes spread apart by a distance of H or H' with the lower plane contained in the plate. The upper plane is defined by lines that form the top of the troughs, and the shape is such that the left part is a mirror image of the right part and the left part goes through one or more arcs or parabola and of circumference followed by an arc of circumference.    ADVANTAGE -   Losses by convection are reduced.
(JP7334767-A)      The method compares the parameters of a number of solar cells using detection appts. which includes a power conversion unit (2) feeding a load (3). The power unit receives its input from a parallel connected set of solar panel arrays (11-14).    A measurement sensor (41-44) is connected to the solar panel array and measures the current, voltage or power. The signals from the sensors are fed to a comparator unit (5), to form a standard value which is used for detection of abnormalities in defective solar panels.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   For solar panel arrays. Provides standard value for detection which reflects actual site location and environmental conditions.
(US5717255-A)      The semiconductor device has a semiconductor element (10) provided with a couple of output terminals (130a,130c). A set of metal foils (150a,150c) are furnished over the output terminal. A couple of openings (21a,21c) are formed at the sides of the metal foils. A protection film (20) covers the semiconductor device surface including the peripherals top part of the metal foil.    ADVANTAGE -   Raises connection intensity of metal foil. Improves reliability. Prevents moisture entry into device.    (US5872050-A)      The semiconductor device has a semiconductor element (10) provided with a couple of output terminals (130a,130c). A set of metal foils (150a,150c) are furnished over the output terminal. A couple of openings (21a,21c) are formed at the sides of the metal foils. A protection film (20) covers the semiconductor device surface including the peripherals top part of the metal foil.    ADVANTAGE -   Raises connection intensity of metal foil. Improves reliability. Prevents moisture entry into device.
(JP3106835-B2)      The device has a number of solar cells connected mutually and installed on a roof (22) by fixing the crosspiece material (23) in series with the plate like roofing material (21) incorporating the solar cell. The direction of crosspiece material and the connecting direction of the solar cell are to be made in parallel.    An output reduction of each element by the shadow of the crosspiece material becomes uniform to each connected element.    ADVANTAGE -   Shadow by crosspiece material fixed in roofing material is reduced to minimum value.
(JP9509265-W)      The optical system has a lens system (1) with a diaphragm (2), an image field (3) containing detectors (6) and an object field. The radii of curvature of the lens system, the image field and the object field meet at the centre of the diaphragm.    Image field flattening lenses (7) can be used to flatten the curved image field, with the flattened image fields lying parallel to planestangential to the latter. The optical system may contain reflecting surfaces (4), with an aspherical corrector plate inserted in the plane of the diaphragm. The light from the curved or flattened image fields is fed to the detectors via relatively adjustable photoconductor elements (8). Pref. an afocal ancillary system is mounted infront of the lens system, with a variable magnification, for varying the overall focal length of the optical system.    ADVANTAGE -   High degree of symmetry with precise spherical zone error correction.
(JP3052111-B2)      The assembly has a main unit (9) where attachment piece (48) can be fixed securely by a screw (53). Several attachment metal parts (10) are provided on the solar panel, where an upper attachment piece and a lower attachment piece can be fastened so that the solar panel can form an angle with reference to axis of the maim unit.    The space (A) between the rear side of each solar panel and the outer wall of the main unit, while the space between solar panels forms the space (B). These spaces provide for the ventilation requirement of the solar panel and for access during maintenance and installation.    ADVANTAGE -   Better solar panel operation by allowing slanted mounting for receiving more radiant energy and for better cooling.
(US5575587-A)      A tide-operated driving system comprising:    a variable air chamber having a broad bottom opening disposed under the water of the sea below the elevation of the ebb tide and a small top opening communicated with said broad bottom opening and disposed above the elevation of the flow tide, the inner diameter of said variable air chamber reducing gradually from said broad bottom opening toward said small top opening; and    a motor having a center shaft, a plurality of centrifugal type vanes spaced around said center shaft, a first air port and second said center shaft disposed tangent to the periphery of said vanes in reversed directions, said first air port communicating with said small top opening for allowing reciprocating currents of air, which are induced by the movement of the tide, to pass through said vanes in a fixed direction, causing said vanes to rotate said center shaft said vanes being of two different lengths alternatively arranged around said center shaft for guiding the reciprocating flow of air from one air port to the other through the center of said rotor.
(EP669251-B1)      The satellite includes a disk-shaped shelf for mounting equipment. A perimeter wall is attached to and extends at an angle from the shelf. The wall has two opposing edges, an inner face defining an interior of the satellite and an outer face. The height of the perimeter wall is selected such that the satellite has a generally oblate configuration.    The satellite further includes two hinges to which two solar array panels are attached. The panels are movable between a closed configuration where the panels are parallel to the planar surface and an open configuration where the panels extend at an angle to the shelf. Finally a device moves the panels from the closed configuration to the open configuration.    ADVANTAGE -   Allows several satellites with same configuration to be stacked within fairing of launch vehicle.
(JP8002499-A)      The method determines the magnitude and direction of applied undesired torque. This is followed by electrically changing an optical property of a control surface (60) exposed to solar radiation and offset from the spacecraft's centre of mass. The change causes the control surface to interact with the solar radiation and create a compensating torque.    Pref. the control surface comprises two plates (60a,60b) located at the distal ends of solar panels (30a,30b) extending in opposite directions from the spacecraft centre of mass. Pref. the method changes its reflectance between primarily absorptive and reflective states.    ADVANTAGE -   Attitude control corrections effected without consuming fuel, or consuming or reducing power provided by solar panels. Easily incorporated into variety of spacecraft designs.
(RU2137054-C1)      The solar energy plant for the conversion of solar radiation into utilisable energy, comprises a Fresnel reflector consisting of several concentrating mirrors installed on a base plane and having a focal point above the base plane removed from the Fresnel reflector by a focal length. At least one solar receiver is placed close to the base plane and an additional reflector is mounted above the Fresnel reflector close to the focal point.    Concentrated solar radiation reflected by the Fresnel reflector is redirected onto the at least one solar receiver. The additional reflector is in the form of a dielectric mirror which is of the beam splitter type so that all the non-reflected radiation is transmitted. The Fresnel reflector is of the heliostats field type in which the concentrating mirrors track the sun.    ADVANTAGE -   Overheating of additional reflector is avoided. Highly efficient solar energy plant.    (CN1147296-A)      The solar energy plant for the conversion of solar radiation into utilisable energy, comprises a Fresnel reflector consisting of several concentrating mirrors installed on a base plane and having a focal point above the base plane removed from the Fresnel reflector by a focal length. At least one solar receiver is placed close to the base plane and an additional reflector is mounted above the Fresnel reflector close to the focal point.    Concentrated solar radiation reflected by the Fresnel reflector is redirected onto the at least one solar receiver. The additional reflector is in the form of a dielectric mirror which is of the beam splitter type so that all the non-reflected radiation is transmitted. The Fresnel reflector is of the heliostats field type in which the concentrating mirrors track the sun.    ADVANTAGE -   Overheating of additional reflector is avoided. Highly efficient solar energy plant.
(JP8210237-A)      The generating unit comprises four adjustable height tension legs disposed as the four corners of a square. A platform structure is supported on the tension legs several parallel lateral support structures extend across the platform structure. A combination turbine/generator is supported on each of the lateral support structures by a vertical column. A power jack raise each of the vertical columns.    ADVANTAGE -   Flexible subsea hydroelectric generating plant that takes advantage of ocean current with its mild movements over course of time.
(WO9522177-A1)      A semiconductor solar cell comprises an elongated substrate (10) having a curved surface coated with at least two semiconductor layers (30,40) with a conductive layer (20) between the substrate and the first semiconductor layer and a second conductive layer (50) on the second semiconductor layer. The semiconductor layers are selectively positioned about the substrate to form arcuate segments.    Also claimed is a solar cell module as above in which the cell above is fixed to a superstrate, a metallisation layer applied to cell and superstrate and selectively removed to form conduction paths, and electrical pads are connected to these paths.    USE -   For solar cells and solar cell arrays.    ADVANTAGE -   Material use and cost are reduced. Mfr. is simple, resistance losses and grid obscuration are reduced, and efficiency is high.
(EP666455-B1)      The collector incorporates, within the same housing, the collector (6) and an accumulator (5) in the shape of a parallelepipedon divided by walls. The remaining elements, such as the pump (1), differential thermostat, purges and valves are housed within a transparent cover. A heat exchanger (13) is connected to the pump and to the collector and at the other end to a valve (11) and a lip (10) of the housing. An insulating material (4,14) covers the heat exchanger.    Tap water enters the honeycombed accumulator through an inlet (18) and exits through an outlet (12) to fill the accumulator and, whenever it tries to pass through to the primary circuit (13), is retained by a solenoid valve (17). When sun falls on a photovoltaic cell (2) a current is supplied to a bistable electronic system (19) to control the solenoid valve. A level detector (9) detects the water level in the primary circuit so that the pump can be started. The pump speed varies with the current from the photovoltaic panel which varies with the sunlight thus controlling the rate of movement of the water.    ADVANTAGE -   Cheaper unit with improved efficiency and which is more aesthetically pleasing and easy to connect.
(FR2733305-A3)      The solar power system includes the thermal storage tank (90) and a number of solar collector units (10). Each solar collector unit (10) comprises a transparent cover plate (20) with photovoltaic cells (21) for converting the radiant energy of sunlight into electric power.    The units also include a rear mounting rail (71), a front mounting frame (70) for engagement with the rear mounting rail (71) of another solar collector unit, and a heat-absorber plate (61) having a collector tube (62) connected to the thermal-storage tank (90). A lateral mounting frame (60) is connected to another solar collector unit over its heat-absorber plate (61) by screws (69).    USE/ADVANTAGE -   For collecting heat energy of sun and converting radiant energy of sunlight into electric power.    (GB2299662-B)      The solar power system includes the thermal storage tank (90) and a number of solar collector units (10). Each solar collector unit (10) comprises a transparent cover plate (20) with photovoltaic cells (21) for converting the radiant energy of sunlight into electric power.    The units also include a rear mounting rail (71), a front mounting frame (70) for engagement with the rear mounting rail (71) of another solar collector unit, and a heat-absorber plate (61) having a collector tube (62) connected to the thermal-storage tank (90). A lateral mounting frame (60) is connected to another solar collector unit over its heat-absorber plate (61) by screws (69).    USE/ADVANTAGE -   For collecting heat energy of sun and converting radiant energy of sunlight into electric power.
(DE4401782-C2)      The method for manufacturing flat emitter contacts between contact fingers formed by template stamp or screen process for solar cell contacts and using an antireflection layer contains the following steps: (a) the complete solar cell (10) with contacts and without antireflection layer is pre-warmed in demineralised water; (b) the surface (5) of the emitter layer (1) between contact fingers (4) is etched in a basic solution at a temperature of 50 deg.C to 80 deg.C.; (c) the surface is rinsed in demineralised water and then (d) dried. The etching solution is 1 to 10% KOH solution.    ADVANTAGE -   Improved conversion efficiency in blue light.
(JP7211932-A)      The solar cell module (101) comprises a surface cover of a waterproof transparent film (108) e.g. of PTFE over a flexible solar cell e.g. amorphous Si, formed on a stainless steel substrate. A lamination having a back reinforcement member (109) e.g. a Zn-coated steel plate, and a filler e.g. of Si resin is superposed on the non-light receiving side of the solar cell with an opening corresponding to a pierced portion for accommodating a fixing means of the solar cell module.    USE -   Passive conversion of solar energy to electrical energy.    ADVANTAGE -   Can be nailed to existing roof, stable over 20 years.    (US5849107-A)      The solar cell module (101) comprises a surface cover member e.g. a waterproof transparent film (108) e.g. of polyethylene tetrafluoroethylene, polyethylene trifluoride, polyvinyl trifluoride etc. over a flexible solar cell e.g. a non single crystal semiconductor e.g. amorphous silicon formed on a stainless steel substrate, a lamination having a back reinforcement member (109) e.g. a zinc coated steel plate and a filler e.g. of silicon resin, butyryl resin, acrylic resin etc. are larger than the solar cell and is superposed on the non light receiving side of the solar cell with an opening corresponding to a pierced portion for accommodating a fixing means of the solar cell module.    USE -   Passive conversion of solar energy to electrical energy.    ADVANTAGE -   Can be nailed to existing roof, stable over 20 years.
(JP7202244-A)      The solar cell arrangement includes solar cell elements (3) each having a photovoltaic active layer (21,22) coaxially positioned around a linear electrode. A plate-like second electrode (4) has the solar cell elements mounted on one side surface (4a). This side of the second electrode is a light reflective surface, configured so that light reflected from the surface is gathered onto the outer edge surface of the solar cell elements.    Pref. the plate electrode side includes multiple concave surfaces, (4a), each formed associated with an individual linear solar cell element.    ADVANTAGE -   Improved space factor and photoelectric conversion efficiency; reduced shading depending on incident light direction; mfd. simply and more economically.
(ZA9408676-A)      The starter for a natural energy powered motor (2) comprises, an electricity storage device (8) connectable to be charged with electrical energy from a natural energy source (3) A voltage conversion device (7) is provided to step up the charging voltage to the electricity storage device (8).    An energy level sensor (9) is connected to the electricity storage device (8) to sense a predetermined maximum charging level and to thereupon in use trigger discharge from the storage device (8) of sufficient electrical energy to start a motor (2) to be driven by electrically from the natural energy source (3) in use.    USE -   For driving pumps in remote areas where electricity supply and other power sources are not readily available. Uses natural energy sources e,g solar panels or wind operated generators.
(US6044230-A)      The battery operated type electronic device is provided with an interruption unit which functions in an active mode and an inactive mode. The interruption unit is made to operate in the inactive mode when the power supply circuit is turned OFF. The power supply circuit supplies power to the main units (1,16,17).    An operation unit (18) maintains inactive mode of the interruption unit even when the normal operation of the device is carried out. The operation of the device is interrupted when it is under packing conditions and not under usage. When a start operation is triggered by an user, the OFF state of the device is cancelled off and the power is supplied from a power supply circuit.    ADVANTAGE -   Performs automatic supply power to device. Minimizes power wastage during usage.
(DE4345270-C2)      The generating system can also have the facility for altering the physical operating conditions of the system during the operation. A system (16) is arranged inside the chamber (5), the size of which can be altered, to alter the size of the chamber vol.    At least one further chamber (17) is arranged additional to the oscillation chamber (5), with which the size of the system vol. is altered. A part is separated off in one of the chambers in which the water level (14) can be altered, in order to alter the air vol. in the system.    ADVANTAGE -   Improved changeover of sea wave energy in to electrical power, so that esp. control of operating conditions of system can be attained.
(EP832355-A1)      The energy production method involves using a chimney (4) which resembles a condenser tower and draws in ambient air (3). The air is heated in a heat transfer siphon (5) and rises. Vanes (6) deflect the air flow and the power plant or the heat transfer siphon only, supported by the pontoon (2) is caused to rotate.    Air is removed from the siphon pipes by a low pressure compressor and the water flow is maintained by the forces generated during rotation.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   Appts. is vertical axis windmill and power may be recovered at low cost from energy of rotation.
(WO9630646-A1)      The wave power generating system comprises a platform positioned over a body of water exhibiting wave motion and a drive shaft mounted on the platform. A first float drives the draft shaft only during the rising portion of a wave, and a second float drives the drive shaft only during the falling portion of a wave. A flywheel is operatively connected to the drive shaft to be driven.    A generating device is operatively connected to the flywheel for generating electrical power when driven by the flywheel. The first and second floats are positioned side by side along a line perpendicular to the motion of the waves so as to drive the flywheel with maximum regularity and without overlap in order to achieve a constant operating speed for the generating device.    ADVANTAGE -   Provides highly effective system which affords maximum utilisation of statistically expected wave patterns at any given location. Constancy of speed necessary for commercially usable power generation is achieved with less massive flywheel.
(JP7221339-A)      The semiconductor device includes a rear contact metallisation on a rear surface of a substrate. A given number of semiconductor layers are placed on the front surface of the substrate. A front contact metallisation is placed on a front surface of a selected semiconductor layer. Given areas of the substrate are thinned to form a given structural pattern.    The pattern includes an external frame and several interconnected beams which support the thin substrate. Some of the semiconductor layers are photovoltaic layers with an anti-reflection coating layer. The substrate is gallium arsenide, germanium or silicon.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   For high power device fabrication wherein substrate thickness limits ability to dissipate, e.g. heat. Allows for mfr. of mechanically robust, high output solar cells e.g. for satellites. Robust due to resistance to crack propagation. High efficiency and light weight solar cells.
(NL9302091-A)      Photovoltaic solar panel includes a transparent bearing plate (11), which is typically made of glass. The bearing plate has a first surface (12) for receiving sunlight and a second surface (13) which is provided with one or more solar cells (2) so as to form a panel surface comprising active and inactive regions.    The solar panel surface includes a directing arrangement which is located relative to active and inactive regions of the panel surface, so as to direct at least part of the sunlight that otherwise would be incident on the inactive regions, to active regions of the panel surface. A reflective coating is applied to a sub-assembly with interposed second intermediate layer, and laminating the assembly at positions related to inactive regions of the panel surface.    ADVANTAGE -   Redirection of normally lost sunlight contributes to improved effectiveness of panel in highly cost efficient manner. Increases panel capacity, facilitates wider spacing of solar cells which leads to use of fewer solar cells per solar panel without reducing power density and total capacity.
(DE4340513-C2)      A pref. thermal conversion of product is carried out, in certain cases coupled with a working machine for the prodn. of electrical power, in the final step of the process. The product quality during the drying operation is regulated across the direct engagement in the residual material supply or the drying heat supply.    The energy needed necessary for the supply is produced within the boundaries of the system, and the excess energy is applied in the form of heat and/or electrical energy for separate use. A min. amount of residual material is thermally used with a material application e.g. as solid material pellets.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   For the car industry. Facilitates continuous preparation and thermal utilization of enamel or paint residues within closed system and can be introduced with residual material producer.
(FR2713018-A1)      Contacting thin layer solar modules comprises: (a) producing a thin film solar module on a substrate (1) and integrally structuring into strips and crossing in series, where at least one of the 1st or 2nd electrode layers (2,4) comprises a transparent conducting oxide; (b) placing a contact strip (5,6) over the 2nd electrode layer (4) along both sides of the substrate (1) parallel to the strip-like structure; and (c) laminating a cover on the structure using a melt adhesive foil (7) under elevated temp. and pressure.    USE -   The process is used to contact solar modules made of amorphous silicon or alloy contg. amorphous silicon, where 1st and 2nd electrode layers are made of zinc oxide; or to contact solar modules with a chalcopyrite deriv. as absorber layer.    ADVANTAGE -   Good electrically conducting contact is produced.    (DE4340402-C2)      Contacting thin layer solar modules comprises: (a) producing a thin film solar module on a substrate (1) and integrally structuring into strips and crossing in series, where at least one of the 1st or 2nd electrode layers (2,4) comprises a transparent conducting oxide; (b) placing a contact strip (5,6) over the 2nd electrode layer (4) along both sides of the substrate (1) parallel to the strip-like structure; and (c) laminating a cover on the structure using a melt adhesive foil (7) under elevated temp. and pressure.    USE -   The process is used to contact solar modules made of amorphous silicon or alloy contg. amorphous silicon, where 1st and 2nd electrode layers are made of zinc oxide; or to contact solar modules with a chalcopyrite deriv. as absorber layer.    ADVANTAGE -   Good electrically conducting contact is produced.
(JP8240174-A)      The device comprises a block (14) and two pulleys (15,16) provided with a ratchet gear. The block and the pulleys are mounted on a rotating shaft (13). Passed around the block (14) is a length of rope (17), one end of which is attached to a float (19) and the other end of which is attached to a counterweight (20).    The pulley (15) provided with a ratchet gear that transmits only a counter clockwise rotation of rotational movement of the block (14) resulting from vertical movements of the float (19). The motion is transmitted to a torque transmitting rod (21) through a belt (25) and a pulley (23). The pulley (16) provided with a ratchet gear transmits only a clockwise rotation of rotational movements of the block (14) to a torque transmitting rod (22) through a belt (26) and a pulley (24).    USE/ADVANTAGE -   Is capable of converting vertical movements of water surface into a rotational movement which is not changed in a direction of rotation.    (JP3159881-B2)      The device comprises a block (14) and two pulleys (15,16) provided with a ratchet gear. The block and the pulleys are mounted on a rotating shaft (13). Passed around the block (14) is a length of rope (17), one end of which is attached to a float (19) and the other end of which is attached to a counterweight (20).    The pulley (15) provided with a ratchet gear that transmits only a counter clockwise rotation of rotational movement of the block (14) resulting from vertical movements of the float (19). The motion is transmitted to a torque transmitting rod (21) through a belt (25) and a pulley (23). The pulley (16) provided with a ratchet gear transmits only a clockwise rotation of rotational movements of the block (14) to a torque transmitting rod (22) through a belt (26) and a pulley (24).    USE/ADVANTAGE -   Is capable of converting vertical movements of water surface into a rotational movement which is not changed in a direction of rotation.
(DE4442298-C2)      Two points (2,3) screwed (16-19) to the top of the barrier (1) support horizontal bars (4,5) to which further bars (e.g. 8) are secured at right angles of carrying the lower edge (7) of the solar cell module (6) held up at an angle by two supports (12).    A strut (11) is hinged (20,21) at its ends to the bars (e.g. 8) and to an inclined mirror (10) pivotable about a third hinge (15). The module and mirror can be rotated as a unit about a vertical axis, so that the appts. faces South (for application in the Northern Hemisphere), if the barrier is not so oriented.    ADVANTAGE -   The panel can be fitted to any barrier irrespective of its geographical orientation, and with a mirror adjustable at intervals can give double output.
(JP7513126-X)      The solar cell includes a shielding layer. The layer prevents reflected light from emerging to the viewer, so that the cell is unseen. An optical element on the front of the shielding layer has a specific transmittance in an arbitrary range of wavelengths of light incident from the front side.    There is a diffusing layer on the front of this element, which allows light to be incident on the front of the cell. The layer is inserted so that the reflected light is seen by the viewer without directivity.    ADVANTAGE -   Reduces quantity of reflected light emitted from front of solar cell, improved appearance.    (US5782995-A)      The solar cell (13) includes a shielding layer (14). The layer prevents reflected light from emerging to the viewer, so that the cell is unseen. An optical element (15) on the front of the shielding layer has a specific transmittance in an arbitrary range of wavelengths of light incident from the front side.    There is a diffusing layer (16) on the front of this element, which allows light to be incident on the front of the cell. The layer (16) is inserted so that the reflected light is seen by the viewer without directivity.    ADVANTAGE -   Reduces quantity of reflected light emitted from front of solar cell, improved appearance.    (CN1254190-A)      The solar cell (13) includes a shielding layer (14). The layer prevents reflected light from emerging to the viewer, so that the cell is unseen. An optical element (15) on the front of the shielding layer has a specific transmittance in an arbitrary range of wavelengths of light incident from the front side.    There is a diffusing layer (16) on the front of this element, which allows light to be incident on the front of the cell. The layer (16) is inserted so that the reflected light is seen by the viewer without directivity.    ADVANTAGE -   Reduces quantity of reflected light emitted from front of solar cell, improved appearance.
(WO9623973-A1)      Wave energy conversion system has a platform (20) mounted in a body of water above sea level, a shaft (30) anchored to the sea bottom (56) and extending up with a passage in the shaft connected to a manifold and a piston mounted on the shaft and surrounded by a sleeve (46) which is slidable on the shaft and forms with the piston a pumping chamber. The sleeve is connected to a buoyancy vessel (34) and to a ballast ram (36) such that wave motion causes the sleeve (46) to rise with the buoyancy vessel (34) and the ram pulls the sleeve down as each wave passes to cause the piston to pump water through the interior of the shaft to the manifold to create a volume of water under pressure.    USE -   Provides a pressurised water supply which can be used to drive turbines to generate electrical power, to force water through filtration systems to produce potable water, to extract hydrogen gas from an electrolyte by known hydrogen extraction procedures e.g. using the discharge from the turbine or the water in the manifold as the electrolyte or in any combination.    ADVANTAGE -   Provides a significant amt. of pressurised water, which can be used for a variety of purposes.
(US5461862-A)      A system for conversion of sea wave energy comprising:    (a) a breakwater structure;    (b) a wave energy collector integrally formed within said breakwater structure;    (c) an upwardly extending duct having hydraulic oil separated from seawater by a separator, said energy collector being arranged to collect and direct oncoming waves to said duct for converting the wave energy into oil pressure;    (d) a plurality of control valves electronically coupled through a computerized control system incorporated in said energy collector, said computerized control system regulating said control valves so that wave pressure is collected and transferred to said hydraulic oil;    (e) a pressure tank;    (f) a hydraulic motor mechanically coupled to an electric generator;    (g) a piping system coupling said hydraulic oil in said duct to said pressure tank and said pressure tank to said hydraulic motor.
(US5462668-A)      pH-adjusted steam condensate is combined with an additive for adding to a geothermal brine stream contg. dissolved components, naturally-occurring radioactive materials, and Si-contg. cpds. Process comprises (a) recovering part of the condensate from brine extracted from th earth after power generation; (b) adjusting it to pH4-6; (c) combining this with a crystal structure modifier and/or flocculant as additive(s); and (d) adding the additive to the brine steam to concn. less than 50ppm.    ADVANTAGE -   Thermal decomposition of the additive is prevented when dil. additive is added to the brine stream, pptn. of dissolved components reduced or pptn. of Si-cpds. accelerated from the brine stream.
(US5413718-A)      Power from geothermal brine is extracted (10), steam is generated at the well head (14), reducing the vol. of liq. brine flowing (16) to a flash crystallisation operation (18). Cleaned steam is used in the generation of electrical power.    Warm liq. brine is removed (28) and water is added (33) to bring the wt. rate of the water injected up to about the wt. of brine extracted. Silicon and silver extn. is possible.    ADVANTAGE -   Steam can be generated from geothermal sources and aquifers are replenished to prevent ground subsidence.
(JP3009566-B2)      Beta alumina contains Al2O3, Na2O and Li2O, and mol-content ratio of Al2O3/Na2O is 6-7, and Li2O content is 0.5-0.75 wt.%.    ADVANTAGE -   Beta alumina can be used for Na-S cell. Na-fused cell, and solid electrolyte for alkali metal thermoconversion cell.
(DE4331988-C2)      A wave generator has an air turbine (7) with a chamber (5) in which water (9) can oscillate as a result of waves (3) in the sea. The air (11) in the chamber above the water then oscillates in resonance with the wave frequency. Inside the chamber is a flexible balloon (16) whose volume can be changed by pumping in air or water, thus changing the effective chamber volume. A similar one (9) controls the entry cross-section for the water. There are other chambers (17) connected by valves (18) to give variation in air volume and others (13) with valves (15) to give variation in water volume. The water chambers will have different water levels (14).    ADVANTAGE -   Improved conversion efficiency.
(DE4411458-A1)      The roof tile has an earthenware, ceramics, cement, or plastics plate (1) acting as a base for a solar panel (6), supporting photovoltaic solar cells (7) on its upperside. The solar panel positively engages the inside edges (3) of a recess (2) formed in the surface of the plate on at least 2 opposing sides.    The solar panel has depending projections (5) along these opposing sides, which snap-fit into individual locating notches (4) formed in the inside edges of the recess, due to their intrinsic elasticity.    ADVANTAGE -   Increased mfg. tolerances and secure fixing of solar panel without damage to solar cells.    (US5768831-A)      The roof tile has an earthenware, ceramics, cement, or plastics plate (1) acting as a base for a solar panel (6), supporting photovoltaic solar cells (7) on its upperside. The solar panel positively engages the inside edges (3) of a recess (2) formed in the surface of the plate on at least 2 opposing sides.    The solar panel has depending projections (5) along these opposing sides, which snap-fit into individual locating notches (4) formed in the inside edges of the recess, due to their intrinsic elasticity.    ADVANTAGE -   Increased mfg. tolerances and secure fixing of solar panel without damage to solar cells.    (DE4411458-C2)      The roof tile has an earthenware, ceramics, cement, or plastics plate (1) acting as a base for a solar panel (6), supporting photovoltaic solar cells (7) on its upperside. The solar panel positively engages the inside edges (3) of a recess (2) formed in the surface of the plate on at least 2 opposing sides.    The solar panel has depending projections (5) along these opposing sides, which snap-fit into individual locating notches (4) formed in the inside edges of the recess, due to their intrinsic elasticity.    ADVANTAGE -   Increased mfg. tolerances and secure fixing of solar panel without damage to solar cells.
(US5776262-A)      The solar module has an array of photovoltaic solar cells (4) and an underlying carrier plate (8), embedded in plastics (1,3,5,7,9). The carrier plate has a number of spaced openings (25) across its surface, through which the plastics can penetrate.    Pref. the plastics is provided by a hot adhesive foil, or a synthetic resin, with the solar cells enclosed by the plastics on all sides, their top surface covered by a transparent plastics layer (1,3).    ADVANTAGE -   Good stability, robustness and sealing characteristics and easy matching to roof tiles etc.
(JP2975508-B2)      The solar battery installation mount, mounts solar battery module (12) on two channels (1) and appropriately secured to them. Each of these channels has a pair of corner holes (4) individually aligned to receive specially profiled angle pipes (2).    A wire (5) secured to the ends of angle pipes are appropriately anchored at selected roof top locations.    ADVANTAGE -   Uses minimum components. Keeps rope tension nearly uniform. Provides high reliability mounting that effectively withstands wind pressures.
(GB2282188-B)      A method of generating electricity from wave energy which comprises, locating a plurality of juxtaposed chambers along a gradient below sea level, connecting each chamber to its next adjacent chamber by a one-way valve and locating bellows or diaphragm members one above each of the chambers to enclose a volume therewith, whereby wave action, acting upon such members, provides a pressure differential between the two chambers most remote from each other, one at each end of the gradient which is utilised for generating electricity.
(US5408942-A)      Walls define a combustion chamber having a pneumatically suspended combustion zone, at least a portion of each wall comprising a number of tubes which are adjacent and spaced from each other. The tubes have tube interiors and tube walls including openings oriented towards the combustion zone.    At least one tube supply blower is connected to the tubes for pressurising the tube interiors with combustion-supporting gas such that the gas streams are directed out of the openings to at least partially define the combustion zone and to force the heat of combustion away from the walls.    An outer containment structure surrounds the walls, and at least one outer containment structure supply blower is connected for pressurising the outer containment structure with combustion-supporting gas such that the gas streams are directed between the tubes into the combustion chamber.    ADVANTAGE -   Minimised use of refractory materials in combustion chamber construction, and reduced landfill usage.
(ZA9405343-A)      The photovoltaic module includes panel supports (14) adjacent an upper panel (8) in the module (6) to absorb vertical forces exerted along an axis perpendicular to the upper panel. The energy converter is inside the panel, which is exposed to the external environment on the outside. The applied forces may be tensile or compressive.    Button-shaped channels (20) are used around the edges of the module absorbing forces applied parallel to the module. These direct moisture away. A spacer (16) between upper and lower (12) panels has a coefficient of thermal expansion equivalent to that of at least one panel. A frame (26) prevents temperature gradient from forming.    ADVANTAGE -   Protects against vertical and horizontal shocks, reduces moisture penetration.    (US5460660-A)      An apparatus for converting light into electricity in a terrestrial environments comprising;    an energy generating means to convert light into electricity;    a first panel that is sealed to a second panel, the first and second panels forming an interior space between the first and second panels that is shielded from the exterior environment, the energy generating means located within the interior space; and    a number of means, positioned in the interior space adjacent to the first panel, for resiliently absorbing a vertical force exerted on at least one of the first and second panels along an axis perpendicular to at least one of the first and second panels, where all of the number of means for absorbing a vertical force are separated from one another by a space to permit deformation of each of the number of means for resiliently absorbing a vertical force.
(JP7038205-A)      The drive method involves positioning multiple surface emission type laser diodes (101a-101l) on a N type InP substrate (10). Each LD is connected to a secondary diffraction grating (16). The setup is in the form of a circle, with LDs arranged at regular, predetermined pitch.    ADVANTAGE -   Ensures laser light of constant phase, stable in a predetermined direction. Inhibits thermal wave interference between LDs. Avoids requirement of reflective mirror, optical wave guide etc,. Detects light of predetermined wavelength with sufficient accuracy from multiple wave length light. Obtains multiple wavelength optical communication system of low cost and simple composition.    (DE4447656-A1)      NO FURTHER INFO.    (DE4447655-A1)      No further information.
(DE4325634-C2)      The solar cell consists of several, not necessarily identical sized individual bodies in the semiconductor body (1). They are made of gallium arsenide, and the body contains a pn-junction and is suitable for sun light absorption. The semiconductor material contains a grid-forming contact system (21) on its front side and an anti-reflex layer (3) on a support (4), pref. a cover glass. The contact system and the anti-reflex layer are interconnected in series and/or in parallel via metal connecting links (61, 62).    ADVANTAGE -   High stability and reliable coupling.
(DE4324110-C2)      The appts. (5) is submerged in shallow water (2) and pref. fixed to the bed (1). Electric current is generated by a turbine (7) driven by the reverse flow (8) of seawater guided (9) through a passage under the plate (6) above which the surface waves (3) are propagated in the opposite direction (4).    Alternatively the plate may be attached to the underside of a free float with the turbogenerator and flow guides secured to the plate, which pref. is mfd. of reinforced concrete and maintained at one-third of the total depth. Other components are mfd. pref. of stainless steel.    ADVANTAGE -   The process of renewable energy conversion is improved with min. impact on coastal scenery or navigation, and without exposing appts. to risk of atmos. corrosion.
(JP7167398-A)      The system has a fast acting, selectively adjustable pressure regulator or regulating valve apparatus (40 or 53) connected in parallel with the expander system. The apparatus has an operational state where the gas is throttled to a low pressure from the transmission pipeline to the consumer pipeline (18A or B). It also has a non-operational state in which no gas is transmitted.    A control system (47 or 58) responds to a reduction in gas flow through the expander system below a threshold for rapid switching that minimises the shock waves in both the transmission and consumer pipelines.    ADVANTAGE -   Has reduced downtime. Component failure is reduced as shock waves are minimised.
(WO9502793-A1)      The hybrid solar panel includes a housing made from a sheet metal tank (1) and a radiation transparent plate (7) attached onto the sheet metal tank. The housing contains an absorber (9) for converting the solar radiation into heat.    Photovoltaic cells (20) in the housing convert the solar radiation onto electrical energy. The housing is evacuated. The photovoltaic cells are arranged in the region of the housing walls. In one embodiment the photovoltaic cells are mounted on the inner side of the plate.    ADVANTAGE -   Output of electrical energy is improved for steady heat output.
(JP2976267-B2)      The thermoelectric cell electrolyte layer is typically a mixture of salts that possess ionic conductivity when in liquid state. To this mixture is added a high temperature particulate binder that serves as a gellant.    The mixture of salts and binder is melt processed, cooled, crushed and portion within 100-200 mesh size is isolated for conversion into separator layer material through moulding; fines above 200 mesh are segregated. These are blended into the separator composition in the range of 10-50% by weight, subsequently.    ADVANTAGE -   Effects faster, more uniform mixing. Improves initial quality of 100-200 mesh starting material. Serves to improve cell service performance.
(WO9503628-A1)      The serial connection system uses a transparent front electrode (FE) applied over the full surface of a transparent substrate (S) and divided into electrode strips (FE1,..), before deposition of a photovoltaic thin-film semiconductor layer (HL) and a rear electrode (REE). The thin-film semiconductor layer is structured in accordance with the electrode strips to provide individual solar cells, via a laser, with a second laser wavelength used to provide low-ohmic regions in the semiconductor layer, for connecting the rear electrode of a first solar cell with the front electrode of the next solar cell.    ADVANTAGE -   Allows structuring and serial connection in single process via asymmetrical laser.    (JP9500236-W)      The serial connection system uses a transparent front electrode (FE) applied over the full surface of a transparent substrate (S) and divided into electrode strips (FE1,..), before deposition of a photovoltaic thin-film semiconductor layer (HL) and a rear electrode (REE). The thin-film semiconductor layer is structured in accordance with the electrode strips to provide individual solar cells, via a laser, with a second laser wavelength used to provide low-ohmic regions in the semiconductor layer, for connecting the rear electrode of a first solar cell with the front electrode of the next solar cell.    ADVANTAGE -   Allows structuring and serial connection in single process via asymmetrical laser.
(GB2285859-B)      The solar collector assembly has a base frame shaped like a half-round tube, and two bilaterally extended side wings. A number of transverse mounting plates are affixed to the bottom of the channel body for mounting on a building, and the side wings have cover mounting grooves at the top. Two vertically spaced, transparent top covers are fastened to the cover grooves on the side wings and over the channel body of the base frame. A collector unit is covered within the channel body for collecting solar radiation, and includes two supports fastened to the inside of the body.    A collector tube, fastened to the centre of the collector panel, has one end connected to the water supply pipe of a solar heating system and an opposite end connected to the water return pipe. The collector tube has two opposite ends fastened to either support at the top by a respective clamp, each support comprised of a bottom frame vertically fastened to the inside of the channel body and having a series of vertically spaced through holes. A top frame has a series of vertically spaced through holes alternatively fastened to either through hole on the bottom frame to support the collector panel in any of a series of elevations. Two end covers are fastened to the base frame and the cover at either end by screws.    ADVANTAGE -   Easily installed.
(US5395070-A)      The solar energy concentrator assembly comprises a solar concentrator including a Fresnel lens integral with a sheet of flexible polymeric material for concentrating an amount of incoming solar radiation onto a surface of the earth. Wings are connected to the solar concentrator for providing aerodynamic lift to it, to thereby maintain the solar concentrator a predetermined distance above the surface of the earth to effectively concentrate incoming solar radiation onto the surface of the earth.    A propulsion device is connected to the solar concentrator for propelling the wings through the atmosphere to generate aerodynamic lift due to differential air flow along surfaces of the wings. A power plant is operatively connected to the propulsion sensor for supplying power. A solar collector is mounted to the solar concentrator and operatively connected to the power plant for energising same in response to solar radiation received by the solar collector.    ADVANTAGE -   Reduces portion of earth's surface required for collecting substantial amounts of solar energy.    (US5447147-A)      Solar energy is concentrated by using a pool of a homogenous fluidic substance. A mechanical energy is controllably imparted to the pool to generate a standing wave of the fluidic substance in the pool. Upon generation of the standing wave in the fluidic substance and by virtue of the generation of the standing wave, incoming solar radiation impinging on the pool is differentially redirected to concentrate the incoming solar radiation at a predetermined location spaced from the pool.    The mechanical energy is controllably imparted by providing a number of electromechanical transducers in operative contact with the wall, the transducers being spaced from one another along the wall. The transducers are periodically energised to generate the standing wave of the fluidic substance in the pool.
(US5385614-A)      The method comprises a step of providing a substrate, establishing a first electrode on top of the substrate; establishing a protective conductor having a first thickness on top of a portion of the first electrode, and establishing an active layer having a second thickness on top of the protective conductor. The first thickness of the protective conductor is greater that the second thickness of the active layer thus facilitating subsequent severing. A portion of the protective conductor covered by the active layer is exposed without severing the underlying portion of the first electrode.    A second electrode is established over the active layer. The second electrode contacts the exposed portion of the protective conductor to establish an electrical connection between the first electrode and the second electrode via the protective conductor. The two electrodes are severed to establish a first photovoltaic cell and a second photovoltaic cell.    ADVANTAGE -   Reduced or eliminated prodn. of waste products.    (ZA9409307-A)      The method of forming a series of cells involves establishing an electrode on top of a substrate, and establishing a protective conductor on top of the electrode. An active layer is established on top of the protective conductor. A portion of the protective conductor is exposed without severing the electrode. A second electrode is established over the active layer. The second electrode makes contact with the exposed portion.    This forms an electrical connection between the two electrodes via the protective conductor. The two electrodes are then severed to form two photovoltaic cells. The first electrode is established by applying a layer of conductive material on the substrate.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   For solar power module. Highly accurate layer cutting for improved current flow.
(JP8507353-W)      Each of two yokes (4) which are 90 deg. out of phase, are connected to beams (3) by bearings (10,15) having only one degree of freedom. An eccentric bearing (15) with one degree of freedom is fitted to the nutating shaft (16) and is connected to one end of each of the yokes.    All the axes of the bearings pass through a central pivot point (5) but the axes of the pistons (7) need not be straight nor need be parallel with the axis of the crankshaft.    ADVANTAGE -   Assembly is compact. Pistons need not be in parallel with drive shaft of machine. Machine achieves nearly complete dynamic balance.    (EP697076-B1)      Each of two yokes (4) which are 90 deg. out of phase, are connected to beams (3) by bearings (10,15) having only one degree of freedom. An eccentric bearing (15) with one degree of freedom is fitted to the nutating shaft (16) and is connected to one end of each of the yokes.    All the axes of the bearings pass through a central pivot point (5) but the axes of the pistons (7) need not be straight nor need be parallel with the axis of the crankshaft.    ADVANTAGE -   Assembly is compact. Pistons need not be in parallel with drive shaft of machine. Machine achieves nearly complete dynamic balance.
(ZA9403197-A)      A chimney has an up-run following the contour of a hill side (10). The chimney includes a lower air inlet and an upper air outlet, and a drive mechanism for effecting a flow of air from the inlet to the outlet. The drive mechanism for the engine which operates the air flow is an excavated length (2) of the hill side.    The chimney includes a segment which is flush with and opens out onto the hill side contour. The opening caused by this has fabricated closure members which cover the opening, which include a pivoted and hinged flap. This allows any impinging wind to enter the chimney.    ADVANTAGE -   Chimney once constructed can be largely concealed from distant viewing and so may be more acceptable in scenic locations.
(JP2746108-B2)      Reformer comprises combustion appts. (7) of fuel gas, combustion space (8) provided at the flame release direction of the combustion appts., cylindrical radiation tube (21) placed around the combustion space and triple tube placed at the outside of radiation tube concentrically. The inner tube of triple tube and the end of combustion space side of its outer tube are connected with an end cap. The first ring-shaped space is formed between the inner tube and middle tube of triple tube to place catalyst and the second ring-shaped space is formed between the middle tube and outer tube and connected to the first ring-shaped space at the end cap connection part to form a reaction tube (3) by the first and second ring-shaped spaces. The third ring-shaped space connected to the combustion space is formed between the radiation tube and reaction tube.    USE -   To produce hydrogen-enriched gas used as fuel gas of fuel cells by adding steam to hydrocarbons.    ADVANTAGE -   To miniaturise the reformers to produce hydrogen-enriched gas.
(JP3042751-B2)      Start-up of heat-exchanger type reformers of fuel cells with heat-supplying appts. to feed gases for heating and combustion is claimed, in that air ratios higher than those at normal operations are employed in the heat-supplying appts. at the initial stage of the start-up process.    USE -   Used to rapidly heat heat-exchanger type reformers to given temps. in the start-up process.    ADVANTAGE -   The catalyst tubes and input and output systems of reformers can be quickly heated.
(JP2700047-B2)      The catalyser holder has a desulphurisation device which desulphurises original fuel containing carbon hydrogen system. A reaction pipe containing catalyser layer is heated with a heat medium object. A fuel modifier changes steam of original fuel into gas which is rich in hydrogen. A carbon-monoxide transformer transforms carbon-monoxide contained by the gas and is supplied to a fuel battery. The catalyser holder maintains the nature of the catalytic action of catalyser in the reaction pipe of the fuel battery. A recycling system supplies a part of the quality gas from the carbon-monoxide transformer to desulphurisation device, through an additional rates of flow control valve.    An entrance temperature detector detects the temperature of the catalyser layer at the entrance of the reaction pipe. A second temperature detector provided near the entrance detects catalyser layer temperature at predetermined position. A temperature difference calculator computes the temperature difference of both the temperature detectors. A controller controls flow valve of recycling system to secure minimum rates of flow of quality gas required for additional desulphurisation.    ADVANTAGE -   Prevents carbon deposition. Maintains nature of catalytic action effectively. Supplies good quality gas to fuel battery for long time.
(JP2794081-B2)      The fuel gas supply makes the fuel to flow out from a pipe (1) of modifier in battery for generating power. The fuel gas is obtained by burning a liquid fuel. The burning process of the liquid fuel is carried out in the pipe by heating the pipe to a predetermined temperature. The temperature is maintained at the pipe until all the liquid fuel gets evaporated. The temperature is maintained by a heater wire (2) and a control device (7).    The heater is twisted around the outer circumference of the pipe. A temperature detector (6) is placed at the outer surface of the pipe. The predetermined temperature at which the fuel gas is extracted from the fuel is set previously in the detector. The control device (7) controls the heating process by controlling an ON/OFF switch of the heater element according to the output of the temperature detector.    ADVANTAGE -   Prevents liquefaction of fuel gas even when aperture area of flow control valve is increased.
(JP7240213-A)      The hybrid power supply has a secondary battery (1) which supplies power for motor drive. A fuel battery (3) supplies power to charge the secondary battery (1). From the input unit (12), the charging time is input. The fuel battery output computation device (7c) computes the power required to fully charge the secondary battery based on the output of the secondary battery charge detector (4). Based on the computed value, the secondary battery (1) is charged.    ADVANTAGE -   Charges secondary battery even when motor drive is disabled.
(JP3108269-B2)      A system equipped with a reformer (A) and a convertor (B). (B) is installed so as to cover the outer surface of (A).    USE -   Used for producing fuel gas for fuel cells.    ADVANTAGE -   The system is able to decrease heat loss.
(JP3054533-B2)      Fuel cell system comprises a fuel cell having a hydrogen electrode and oxygen electrode, vaporiser to vaporise fuel gas, and reformer having a burner to heat the vaporiser and catalyst layer using liq. fuel and hydrogen electrode exhaust gas and catalyst layer to reform vaporised fuel gas, and the burner comprises a burner body to vaporise methanol supplied as liq. fuel, wing for dispersing methanol, heater and hydrogen electrode exhaust gas passage placed above the burner body to supply exhaust gas of hydrogen electrode. Vaporised methanol is combusted by the first air supplied from the outside to the inside of burner body and remaining methanol and hydrogen electrode exhaust gas are combusted by the second air supplied at the upper part of burner body.    USE -   Used to improve burners used in reformers of fuel cell system.    ADVANTAGE -   To combust liq. fuel nearly completely to discharge clean exhaust gas from the fuel cell system.
(JP3126517-B2)      The appts. comprises a turbine unit to generate a power by expanding the hot coal gas to lower its temp. and impurity separator to separate impurities from the coal gas at the lowered temp.    USE -   For producing fuel for fuel cells.
(DE4408962-C2)       CO is removed from a methanol/water vapour reforming process gas by selective contact induced carbonisation. The CO is converted into C and CO2via the Boudouard Equilibrium. Also claimed is a suitable apparatus which has, in addition to the reforming reactor (1) at least 2 carbonisation reactors (2,3). Whilst one reactor is removing CO, the other which is in parallel, is disconnected, the catalyst being regenerated by removing carbon from it.    USE -    To remove the CO impurity from H2 produced by the CH3 OH/H2O reforming process.    ADVANTAGE -    Removal of CO impurities makes the H2suitable for feeding to the anode of a PEM fuel cell that could be used to power a vehicle.
(FR2717303-A1)      The inertia cut-out switch includes the metal ball (7) held under pressure on its seats (5A,5B). The ball is retained by a spring washer (25) which is calibrated to apply a given pressure to the ball. On impact, the ball is released from its seating by dynamic inertia.    The two seatings (5A,5B) mounted above and below the ball position are formed of lead alloy preformed to the required shape. The housing is incorporated into the battery at one of its normal terminals, with the casing being retained within the top wall of the battery casing. A rivet (42) on the lower side allows connection of a cable within the battery.    ADVANTAGE -   Inertial cut-out switch is simply formed directly within conventional battery housing.
(JP2996085-B2)      The device has a battery carrier (22) made of resin-composition material. An arm (40) that prolongs upward is attached in one side of the battery carrier. A battery clamp (55) connects a clamp bolt (50) positioned at the other side of the battery carrier as it fixes the battery to the carrier. An insertion hole is formed to one side of the bottom portion of the carrier.    A connection projection (38) is set up at the battery carrier periphery wall corresponding to the insertion hole and also forms a connection hole. A refraction unit (41) is inserted into the insertion hole. A through hole enables the fastening of the refraction unit and the battery carrier.    ADVANTAGE -   Enables easy assembly of arm by side of battery carrier that can withstand vibration of vehicle. Prevents battery draining that shortens battery life.
(JP3092428-B2)      The system has a fuel evaporation appts (6) in which an electric vaporizer (8) evaporates the liquified petroleum gas (4) for fuel battery. An electric heater (7) is used to heat the electric vaporizer. Then, the evaporated fuel is supplied to a fuel battery electrical power generating device (13) through a line. Between the vaporiser and the evaporated fuel supply line, a catalyser combustion type vaporizer (10) is provided.    ADVANTAGE -   Provides reliable fuel evaporation system. Evaporates liquid fuel continuously.
(JP96009717-B2)      The appts. comprises a heat recovery part having an exclusive cooler to recover heat from a gas prod. in a gasifier to gasify a combustible component of a solid dust coal.    USE -   In mfr. of fuel gases for fuel cells.
(JP2532030-B2)      A gasket is obtd. by moulding a mixt. composed of 1-12 wt.% of an organic binder, 5-40 wt.% of an inorganic filler, 5-40 wt.% of an inorganic fibre and 40-80 wt.% of a solidifying and sintering inorganic filler into a sheet.    USE -   In electric equipments, e.g. fuel cells, and joints of pipes for high temp. fluids.    ADVANTAGE -   The gasket has a high sealing property at high temp. use.
(JP3193992-B2)      The battery consists of several stacks (1-6). Each stack has a positive electrode chamber and a negative electrode chamber separated by a diaphragm. A pump circulates the electrolyte around the electrodes. The output of each battery stack is connected in series. An automatic control valve is provided at the entrance of each pipe that leads the electrolyte to the stack. The output terminal voltage is controlled by changing the state of the cable run switches (1f-6f) connected to the stacks.    ADVANTAGE -   Maintains high level current efficiency. Reduces pump power consumption. Increases battery utilisation efficiency.
(JP7226226-A)       The spillover-type battery comprises: (a) a generator element consisting of a catalyst layer formed by fixing a Pt gp. colloid on a metal plate, a powdery activated carbon applied on the catalyst layer and another metal plate clad on the activated carbon; (b) a closed vessel in which the generator element is placed; (c) a H2gas contained in the closed vessel; and (d) wiring for extracting a current connected to the metal plates.    USE -   Used, e.g., as captive power generators and electric vehicles.    ADVANTAGE -   The battery is maintenance-free, compact, light and free from environmental pollution causes and mass-produced at a low cost.
(JP2813132-B2)      Ceramic spring material is made by dispersing a fine carbide particle in a mullite matrix.    ADVANTAGE -   Improved rupture strength and bending strength.
(US6242128-B1)      The multicell battery (10) comprises cells (8) with copper sheet anode bussing tabs (4) and aluminium sheet cathode bussing tabs (6). The tabs have holding and alignment holes (12,14,16,18).    The anode and cathode tabs from individual cells are pref. connected through current collector layers and welded in gps. They are placed between a clamp plate (48) and terminal (42) and rivets (30), used as holding devices, are passed through the holes and the plain end is hammered down to form a second head (56).    USE/ADVANTAGE -   For regular cars with gasoline engines. Minimises electrical resistance of the multicell battery, allows rework and achieves high efficiency and small dimensions.
(JP3103471-B2)      The electrolytic impregnation method involves heat cycling which sets a holding temperature of two or more levels with proper time interval and with a proper temperature difference. A means is adapted for proper amount of impregnation of the electrolytic at short time.    ADVANTAGE -   Promotes impregnation speed. Simplifies assembly process. Enables extensive production. Shortens number of processes.
(EP657952-B1)      The amt. of alkali electrolyte in the container is 1.5-2.0 cc/l. Ah of battery capacity. The spacing (t1) between the electrodes and the container base is pref. 2-10 mm and the spacing (t2) between the electrodes and the container sidewall is pref. 1-5 mm.    A module battery formed of 2-40 of the cells connected in parallel and/or in series is claimed.    ADVANTAGE -   Deformation of the electrode assembly caused by charging and discharging is absorbed by the spacings so that life characteristics are improved. The battery may also be rapidly filled with the correct amt. of electrolyte.
(DE4432539-C2)      An anti-theft device for a car has a battery lock which can prevent current flow from the battery. It receives coded signals (from an infra-red transmitter, keyboard or card reader) to switch in the necessary circuits for starting. There is a codable signal generator (8) which sends a coded release signal over the bus (9) to the locking circuits (21, 22) for the starter and/or ignition and/or other circuits. The battery lock is contained in a compartment in the battery case, forming a mechanically sealed unit and it cannot be bridged without destroying the wall of the compartment.    ADVANTAGE -   Improved security.
(US5449571-A)      An encapsulation apparatus for a thermal management system for at least one electric battery, the apparatus comprising a housing including an inner wall defining a receptacle for the at least one battery, the inner wall being positioned in thermal contact with the at least one battery, an outer wall in spaced-apart relationship with the inner wall to define an enclosure therebetween for receiving a phase change material, and a plurality of fins extending from the inner wall into the enclosure to facilitate heat transfer between the inner wall and the phase change material in the enclosure.    (JP9505931-W)      The encapsulation appts. includes a housing comprising an inner wall defining a receptacle for at least one battery (412). The inner wall (418) is in thermal contact with the batteries. A separate outer wall (420) defines an enclosure for receiving a phase change material (426).    Fins extend from the inner wall into the enclosure facilitating heat transfer from the outer wall to the surrounding environment.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   Heat absorbed during vehicle operation, frequent cycling and rapid charge keeping temperature within acceptable range, keeps electrolyte temperature above critical range during inactivity or cold weather.
(EP690521-B1)      In a mechanically rechargeable electrochemical metal-air battery, each cell comprises: (a) a housing contg. a replaceable metal electrode which has an electrically conductive skeleton covered by an active metal component and which can be replaced by a freshly charged metal electrode through a housing opening opposite the housing base; (b) one or more planar air-permeable liq.-impermeable air electrode, each installed in a window-like opening in one or more major surfaces of the housing; and (c) an electrolyte in contact with the metal and air electrodes. A first woven mesh separator is attached to an inner, electrolyte-facing surface of the or each air electrode and a second woven mesh separator is attached to and covers a major metal electrode surface facing the or each air electrode, the separators being in sliding relationship to each other.    USE -   Used esp. as a zinc-air battery for electrically-powered vehicles.    ADVANTAGE -   The metal-air battery cells allow repeated insertion and removal of the metal electrodes for each charge/discharge cycle without causing wear and tear to the mechanically sensitive air electrode flanking each metal electrode.
(JP7161351-A)      The Pb alloy contains 0.02-0.05% Ca, 0.3-0.5% Sn and 0.02-0.45 % Ag. The strip is directly cast alloy strip of thickness 0.020-0.060 ins which is expanded and slit into a grid mesh. SLI Pb-acid positive plate and automotive SLI battery including the positive plate are claimed.    ADVANTAGE -   Positive plates which lead to a maintenance-free battery having good service life in high temp. environments and high corrosion resistance are obtd. in a continuous process. Pb dust formation is minimised and active material paste density can be reduced.    (US5434025-A)      SLI lead-acid positive plate comprises a grid with a lug connected to a top bar, and an expanded grid mesh made from a directly cast strip connected and positioned between top and bottom bars. The grid is formed from a lead-based alloy contg. (by wt.) Pb, 0.02-0.05% Ca, 0.3-0.5% Sn and 0.02-0.045% Ag. A positive active material paste is adhered to the mesh.    Pref. the active material includes lignosulphonate in an amt. sufficient to modulate crystal size of tetrabasic lead sulphate in material.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   Used for lead-acid batteries. The battery using the grid is maintenance-free and has a satisfactory life when operating in high temp. environments. Uses lower active material paste density and eliminates environmental concerns.
(EP655757-B1)      The switch assembly comprises an operating pushbutton (1) which can be displaced from an OFF to an ON position and vice-versa. It also includes a slider (10) having a lug (11) attached to it. Preferably the lug extends into the pushbutton through a slot (12).    The lug engages with a locking element (15), e.g. detent, to hold the pushbutton in an OFF position. The lug can be disengaged from the detent by moving the slider against a resilient member (20), e.g. spring. This allows the pushbutton to pass from the OFF to the ON position.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   Provides important safety element for vehicles transporting dangerous goods.
(JP7188870-A)      A stainless steel with good resistance to corrosion caused by molten salt contains (by wt.) 0.1% Cr, 2.0% Mn, 7.5-15% Ni, 14.0-20.0% Cr, 0.2-4.0% Si, 1.0-4.0% Al, with Si(%):Al(%) ratio of 1.0, inevitable impurities and balance Fe.    Also claimed is a process for making the above-mentioned steel in which (%)=1.57 Cr + 0.7 Si + 3.89 Al - 1.57 Ni - 0.16 Mn - 38.5C - 7.65, with (%) value ranging 0.5-4.0, by hot rolling to give steel tape at temp. 1000C.    USE -   The steel can be used as separator material in fuel cell which is cheap but longer lasting.    ADVANTAGE -   Steel has improved resistance to molten carbonate salts as compared with those with less Cr and Ni. Since the amt. of Al is optimally adjusted, hot rolling of such material can still provide high yield.    (DE4498699-T)      A stainless steel with good resistance to corrosion caused by molten salt contains (by wt.) 0.1% Cr, 2.0% Mn, 7.5-15% Ni, 14.0-20.0% Cr, 0.2-4.0% Si, 1.0-4.0% Al, with Si(%):Al(%) ratio of 1.0, inevitable impurities and balance Fe.    Also claimed is a process for making the above-mentioned steel in which (%)=1.57 Cr + 0.7 Si + 3.89 Al - 1.57 Ni - 0.16 Mn - 38.5C - 7.65, with (%) value ranging 0.5-4.0, by hot rolling to give steel tape at temp. 1000C.    USE -   The steel can be used as separator material in fuel cell which is cheap but longer lasting.    ADVANTAGE -   Steel has improved resistance to molten carbonate salts as compared with those with less Cr and Ni. Since the amt. of Al is optimally adjusted, hot rolling of such material can still provide high yield.
(JP7135013-A)      A protection circuit (11) against gas shortage in a fuel cell has the cell (1) connected to an inverter (2) for the load and a voltage regulator (3) working on the output of the inverter. The protection circuit is connected to the latter. There is a calculation stage (12) for a permitted excess current, based on a fuel coefficient and the output current of the cell, so that an earlier value can be updated. There is a response speed control stage 913) which eliminates fluctuations in this calculated excess current value. There is an overcurrent limiting stage (15) which gives a signal to reduce the voltage at the regulator when the output current from the cell exceeds the permitted value.    ADVANTAGE -   Prevents cell damage by gas shortage when excess current occurs.
(GB2284283-B)      The circuit contains a measurement stage (1) which detects a voltage corresp. to the current in the load circuit of a switching transistor (2). The voltage is detected across a resistor. The measurement stage is connected to the switching transistor's load circuit, measures the voltage drop at the transistor when turned on and derives the current from it.    The switching transistor can be a MOSFET. Its temp. coefficient can be used as the control parameter in the load circuit. The temp. coefficient forms an automatic current limiter in the load circuit.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   E.g. for switch mode power supply or NiCd battery charger circuits fed by 12 V or 23 V supply. Current measurement circuit eliminates need for additional resistor by using internal resistance of turned-on transistor.    (DE4338714-C2)      The circuit contains a measurement stage (1) which detects a voltage corresp. to the current in the load circuit of a switching transistor (2). The voltage is detected across a resistor. The measurement stage is connected to the switching transistor's load circuit, measures the voltage drop at the transistor when turned on and derives the current from it.    The switching transistor can be a MOSFET. Its temp. coefficient can be used as the control parameter in the load circuit. The temp. coefficient forms an automatic current limiter in the load circuit.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   E.g. for switch mode power supply or NiCd battery charger circuits fed by 12 V or 23 V supply. Current measurement circuit eliminates need for additional resistor by using internal resistance of turned-on transistor.
(WO9517021-A1)      Appts. for generating electricity comprises (a) a plasmatron for generating (i) a gaseous molecular species, or (ii) a hydrogen-rich gas from a hydrocarbon; and (b) a fuel cell connected to receive (i) the gaseous species, or (ii) the hydrogen-rich gas, from the plasmatron to generate electricity, a portion of the generated electricity being supplied to the plasmatron.    Also claimed are (i) a method of starting a plasmatron/fuel cell system for generating electricity; and (ii) a self propelled vehicle.    USE -   Plasmatron-fuel cell system for decentralised electricity generation.    ADVANTAGE -   The appts. is compact and simple, with low power for the plasmatron, and high efficiency of both the fuel cell, and conversion of hydrocarbon energy.
(FR2717622-A1)      An automobile battery has projecting circular cross section terminal posts that are engaged by ease to fit clamps (1). The clamp is formed by two main sections (3, 5) that are semi circular in cross section. One end has a terminal block (4) that receives any connecting wires and cables. The opposite end has a block (6) with a formed groove having tapers (19, 20). Clamping inserts (7, 8) are loaded by tightening a nut (17) on a threaded pillar (16). This has the effect of forcing the inserts against the clamps to secure the block onto the battery posts.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   Provides secure clamping of terminal connectors.
(JP7142084-A)      Fabricating a modular, recombinant lead acid battery comprises: providing a plurality of thermoplastic frames, including 2 frames which support electrochemically active plates, the frames being adapted to be stacked and welded together such that the plates are spaced apart from each other a predetermined distance; providing one or more separators, the separators having an uncompressed state, in which uncompressed state they have a thickness equal to or greater than the predetermined distance between plates, and a compressed state, the separators being provided in their compressed state; successively stacking the frames and separators such that a separator is disposed between adjacent plates in its compressed state; successively vibration welding the frames together while the separator is in its compressed state; the separator having a predetermined thickness in its compressed state effective to reduce abrasion of the separators by the plates during vibration welding and tending to assume its uncompressed state in the presence of an electrolyte such that the separator contacts the plates.    USE -   For fabricating modular lead acid storage batteries.    ADVANTAGE -   Use of vibrational welding provides reliable, faster and more economical fabrication separator damage during fabrication is avoided.
(DE4334981-C2)      Reactor, for catalytic removal of CO in H2-rich gas with a selective CO-oxidn. catalyst (I) contg. noble metal, has a structure (II) producing turbulent flow and favouring heat transport, which is coated with (I).    Pref. (II) is a metallic or ceramic support with cross-channel, sponge or fibrous structure or the reactor walls. Its surface is suited to the dimensions of the (I) powder. The thickness of the (I) layer is suited to the initial CO concn. (I) consists of Pt/Al2O3, in which the size of the Pt clusters pref. is 3-10 nm; Ru/Al2O3; or Pt-zeolite.    USE -   The reactor is used in conjunction with a fuel cell, esp. for mobile applications (claimed), e.g, in cars and good vehicles and for generating current with fuel cells.    ADVANTAGE -   This reactor increases the selectivity for CO oxidn. and prevents steep temp. gradients.
(EP649179-B1)      An accumulator having a housing of plastics material, whereof the casing is closed by means of a convey comprising one or a plurality of parts and which has carrying handles secured to the cover which, in the unused position, do not project above the outline of the cover, characterized in that two handles (2) are rotatably mounted on the cover (1), the pivot pin (3) integrally formed on the cover comprising a lower half-shell (4) and reinforcing ribs (5) completing the circle.
(DE4334438-C2)      Composite glass solder (1) consists of a glass component (2) and a composite component (3). At a solder temp. the glass component is liquid and the composite component is solid. The glass component reacts with the composite component at a high temp. partially to give a crystalline phase (6). Process for joining constructional elements (4, 5) using the solder (1) is also claimed. Further claimed is a joint connection made of the solder.    USE -   The solder can be used to join a metallic with a metallic, a metallic with a ceramic, or a ceramic with a ceramic construction element, pref. of high temp. fuel cells (claimed).    ADVANTAGE -   The join formed is temp.-resistant, long lasting, has good mechanical strength and good electrical insulation.
(DE4333504-C2)      In O2 recovery from life support systems by (a) concn. of CO2, (b) conversion of CO2 to CH4 and (c) electrolysis of H2O, a low temp. catalyst (I) is used in stage (b), esp. at 20-200C. Zeolite is used as adsorbent in stage (a).    (I) is a RuOx/TiO2 catalyst. Stage (a) involves gas permeation, pref. using a liquid membrane; or adsorption/desorption with solid amine, activated charcoal or hydrophobic zeolite as adsorbent, which can be regenerated with steam/purging gas or vacuum. The cell used in stage (c) may have a KOH electrolyte (mobile or immobile), electrolyte contg. H3PO4 or solid electrolyte; or proton-exchange membrane (PEM); or may be a molten carbonate cell (MCC).    USE -   The process is esp. useful for space travel applications.    ADVANTAGE -   (I) gives a higher CH4 yield than Ru/Al2O3 catalysts, e.g. in the Sabatier process at temps. below 100C, since equilibrium is established at lower temp.; requires less energy for the heat-up phase; has better O2 compatibility, i.e. there are fewer problems with the air in the CO2 from stage (a); and requires less appts..
(US5432021-A)      Carbon monoxide present in the feed gas stream for a fuel cell is oxidised by passing the gas through a catalytic reactor where additional oxygen containing gas is introduced. The feed gas stream is pref. obtained by water shift reaction.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   Used with fuel cells. The process allows fuel cells to be operated on relatively impure gases.    (EP720781-B1)      Oxidn. of CO to CO2 in the reactant stream (I) of an electrochemical fuel cell equipped with an inlet (A) and outlet (B) for (I) and where (I) also contains H2 and CO2 is effected by addn. of a first O2-contg. gas stream to (I) via a port (C) positioned between inlet (A) and outlet (B) then contacting the stream obtd. with a catalyst (II) in the fuel cell to promote oxidn. of CO to CO2. A further O2-contg. stream is added to (I) via a secondary port (D) located between port (C) and outlet (B) and the stream contacted with (II) to promote CO oxidn.. CO in (I) may be produced by the reverse H2O shift reaction in a H2 -contg. reformate gas mixt..    Port (D) is a plurality and is uniformly spaced with port (C) along the path of stream (I) between inlet (A) and outlet (B).    Stream (I) further contains O2 and O2 contg. streams are drawn from (I).    Appts. for the oxidn. comprises first and second fluid flow field plates or separator layers of electroconductive material with a membrane electrode assembly between these plates or layers. The first plate (or layer) is impermeable to the fuel stream, and the second is impermeable to the O2-contg. stream.    USE -   CO oxidn. in H2-contg. gas mixts. to render mixt. suitable for use as fuel stream in fuel cells. O2-contg. gas may be supplied into an active area of the cell to maintain a uniform temp. profile across this area.    ADVANTAGE -   Adsorption of CO from inlet fuel stream of cells onto surface of catalyst material, e.g. Pt, is avoided.
(JP9504901-W)      The fuel cell (10) has an electrochemically active section (26) and a humidification section (28) in a modular plate and frame design. A pneumatic piston (17) in a compression end plate (16) applies a pressure to promote sealing. The active section has a plurality of fuel cell repeating units (12) consisting of a membrane electrode and a cathode fluid flow field plate.    Carbon monoxide is fed to the assembly which contains a catalyst which oxidises the carbon monoxide to carbon dioxide. Carbon monoxide produced by the reverse water shift reaction is also oxidised.    ADVANTAGE -   Renders a mixture of carbon monoxide in hydrogen suitable for use as a fuel for an electrochemical fuel cell.
(JP2603043-B2)      The plant comprises a series-parallel combination of fuel cells (1) as per the requirement of a life time management to suit a plant employment. These d.c voltages are converted into a.c voltages by an inverter (8). Fuel supply pipe (2), fuel rate- of-flow regulation value (4), air supply pipe (3) and air rate flow control value (5) are connected to each cell. By changing these fuel and air ratio, individual voltage and hence individual characteristic of each battery is altered.    Static characteristic of each battery is performed to access individual characteristic, by trial and error method. To suit the plan employment, voltages of individual batteries or group of batteries having similar characteristics are changed, without affecting control set point of parallel branch. To protect individual battery, a current limiter is also provided.    ADVANTAGE -   Increases operating efficiently. Facilitates easy maintenance management. Rationalises plant employment. Improves accuracy of control system of cell voltages.
(FR2710451-A1)      The cut-out switch has a rotary handle (1) operating an actuator (3), driving a spring loaded cage (4) axially. This cage operates a transverse bridging contact (5) axially, to make or break with two fixed contacts (7). The bridging contact is compressed against the fixed contacts, by a main spring (13) in a diametrical opening in a cage support (9). It also maintains the bridging contact when not making contact.    The spring may be centred axially by projections (9a) on the support and on a bridging contact central boss (5a). The handle may be detached from the actuator, within the casing (2) cover (2a), when the switch is "on" or "off". An actuator diametrical rib (3a) may form an indicating arrow, pointing to the "on/off" indications on the cover.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   Battery cut-out for vehicle or battery operated boats used to safely transport inflammable materials or explosives. Avoids discharge when not in use.
(EP636520-B1)      An electronic protection device to counter excessive discharge of a car battery (B) by a feed node (N) for a number of electric loads (1-7), belonging to the electrical circuit of a motor vehicle, whereby a relay (X) is provided comprising a contact (X'), which is placed between said battery (B) and said feed node (N) to couple said feed node (N) to said car battery (B), characterised in that said relay (X) is suitable for being controlled by a first transistor (TR2) of said electronic protection device which also comprises: - a second transistor (TR1), which is placed between said battery (B) and said feed node (N) and connected in parallel to said contact (X'), said second transistor (TR1) being controlled by - a third transistor (TR3) which is activated, in its turn, according to the output level of - a first comparator (A1) capable of comparing a first voltage value (V'B), that is generated by - a first resistance divider (R1, R2) and that is proportional to the voltage value (VB) of said battery (B), whereby the first comparator (A1) compares the first voltage value (V'B) with a reference voltage value (VRef), upstream and downstream voltage levels of said second transistor (TR1) being detectable by means of - corresponding second and third resistance dividers (R6, R7; R8, R9), capable of generating voltage signals (V"B, V'N) directly proportional to said voltage levels of said second transistor (TR1) which can be compared by means of - a second comparator (A2) provided for the control of said first transistor (TR2).
(EP788665-A1)       A dry charged battery has a polyolefin container substantially or completely enclosed in a bag of higher oxygen diffusion resistance material than the container. Pref. the container is of polypropylene. The bag may be a metal foil plastic composite or laminate with a diffusion resistance 3-50 times higher than is less than 10-8 m2/s. Alternatively the bag is a metal box. Also claimed is the use of such a bag to enclose a battery.    USE -   A dry charged, pref. Pb battery.    ADVANTAGE -   Bag improves storage properties of the battery.
(JP10507817-W)      The equipment used for the power plant has a collector (1) with a calotte (2) at the bottom with a telescopic main support (4) connected to the calotte. The support is hydraulically operated by means of a ball-and-socket joint (3). The bottom of the main support is fixed to a base (5). Three supports (8), protrude towards the focus, lifting the receiver (7) in the focus.    The supports are connected to the orifice (6) of the collector. The equipment can, in areas rich in sunshine, be placed in a concrete (10) lined pit below ground (9). A frame structure (11) forms the external mantle of the collector. Three hydraulically operated telescopic elements (12) mounted on a turntable move the structure to follow the sun.    ADVANTAGE -   Equipment requires smallest possible area in unit which is cheap, can be used on land or water and has protection against wind and the rolling sea.
(JP2981963-B2)      The battery compartment is for a motorcycle or motor tricycle which has a seat (20) and a rear mudguard (18) as part of its after bodywork. An oil reservoir (30) and a battery (27) are located one above another in the space between the seat and the rear mudguard.    The battery compartment (26) manufactured as an integral part of the rear mudguard (18) houses the battery (27) which is of the sealed type so that it can be placed on it's side to minimise vertical height. The battery may be replaced by undoing a panel (28) in the baggage compartment (21).    USE/ADVANTAGE -   For scooter. Capacity of baggage compartment is not reduced by presence of battery.
(JP2877666-B2)      The starting method performs power generation of a fuel battery by supplying a fuel gas. This generated power along with a heater heats up an internal load. As a result, temperature of fuel battery rises. When the temperature rises, a battery current increases upto maximum value.    According to this battery current increase, a voltage standard control step controls the internal load so that battery voltage is maintained at a minimum value. After the battery current reaches the maximum value, the battery voltage increases. A current standard control step controls an internal load depending on the battery voltage increase so that battery current is maintained at a constant value.    ADVANTAGE -   Enables starting of fuel battery even in state of maximum load. Shortens starting time of fuel battery.
(JP2535760-B2)      A catalyst (A) consists mainly of copper oxide, zinc oxide, and aluminium oxide. A mixture made of at least one of basic copper carbonate (B), copper hydroxide (C), and copper oxide and at least one of basic zinc carbonate (D), zinc hydroxide (E), and zinc oxide is mixed with alumina hydrate and the mixt. is heated and reduced.    (B), (C), (D), and (E) are prepared as a ppte. which is generated by adding an aq. soln. contg. a water soluble copper compound and a water soluble zinc cpd. to an aq. soln. of alkali. The ppte. is rinsed, dried, and heated if necessary.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   Used for producing the catalyst for steam-reforming of methanol. Able to prepare catalyst with high activity and selectivity, it has high thermal resistance and high durability.    In an example, (F) = a 800 ml aqueous soln. contg. 181.2 g of (Cu(NO3)2-3(H20)) and 223.1 g of (Zn(NO3)2-6(H20)). (G) = a 300 ml of aq. soln. contg. 476.6 g of sodium carbonate anhydrate. A ppte. was formed by adding (F) to (G) dropwise while agitating (G) at 35 deg. C, which was rinsed to get a slurry. The slurry was mixed with 16.5 g of Boehmite gel (water content = 23%), dried, heated at 270 deg. C for 3 hours, and reduced at 300 deg. C for 2 hours. Methanol transformation (to H2, CO2, and CO) ratio was 99.2% (initial) and 82 % (after 2000 hours run).
(US5823831-A)      The battery terminal connector includes a body (14) having an element for receiving a battery terminal. A cam shaft (6) which is rotatable within the body engages the terminal to lock the connector to the terminal. In one embodiment the element for receiving the battery terminal in a hole (16) in the body. The cam shaft on rotation between an unlock and lock position pulls the body downwards onto the terminal and moves across the terminal to lock the connector to the terminal.    ADVANTAGE -   Can be removed and connected security without tool and is simple both in use and construction.
(JP3147322-B2)      The absorption type heat exchanger is designed to recover heat from fuel cell batteries functioning at higher temperature. Wafer is the heat absorption medium. A High temperature reproduction device (7) serving as heat exchanger recovers heat from wafer (C) or steam emerging out of individual fuel cells (2).    This condensed wafer is fed to a steam splitter (3) that serves as reservoir and recirculates wafer to the fuel cells in a closed loop fashion. Under certain altered conditions of temperature/pressure water flow direction in the loop is reversible.    ADVANTAGE -   Achieves 20% higher use efficiency in high temperature heat recovery from fuel cell waste heat.
(JP96003087-B2)      The gasket for high temp. is formed by blending: 1-30 wt. % of an inorganic fibre having heat resistance at a temp. of at least working temp. as a fibre base material 0-70 wt. % of inorganic powder having heat resistance at a temp. of at least working temp. as an inorganic filler; 20-80 wt. % of an inorganic material having a softening pt. lower than working temp. as an inorganic softening material; and an organic binder. The inorganic fibre, inorganic powder, and inorganic matter have a bulk density of at least 1.0 g/cm3.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   The gasket for high temp. is used for a piping connecting section for a high temp. fluid or fuel cell. The use of the inorganic fibre and the inorganic powder assures high sealing at high temp. The use of the inorganic material buries the voids in the inorganic fibre with the inorganic matter at low temp. The results positively prevent leakage. The resulting gasket has high sealing.
(EP639862-B1)      A multi-cell battery having a central gas venting means integrated in the battery cover and, downstream of the central gas venting means, a porous frit acting as a protection against explosion, characterised in that the gas collecting duct (2) is arranged in a line connecting the battery plugs or lying parallel thereto, and in that there is provided, laterally thereto in the side wall of the cover, a depression (8) which is connected by a side duct (3) to the collecting duct (2), and in that there is arranged in the depression an insert part (9) which contains the frit (5) closing the gas duct and which is connected to the cover in gas-tight manner.
(DE4327318-C2)      A Cr alloy sheet mfg. process involves melting the individual starting components (4,5,6) in an inert gas atmos., spraying the molten components together in the inert gas atmos. onto a receiving surface (22) and, after solidification, detaching from the receiving surface, compacting and/or flat rolling. Equipment for carrying out the above process consists of a melting device (12), a spray device (20), a receiving surface (22) for the sprayed melt, a detachment device (26,34,35) for the solidified melt (32), a shear (38) and a rolling mill stand (40), all installed in a gastight inert gas (43) filled housing (42).    USE -    E.g. for mfr. of sheets of Cr-based alloy contg. 3-10 at.% Fe and 0.5-5 at.% Y or Y2 O3, for use in high temp. fuel cells.    ADVANTAGE -    The process allows efficient mfr. of large sheets of a Cr alloy with limited flowability, avoids oxidn. and nitrogen embrittlement of the alloy, avoids formation of a sintered structure or coarse cast structure and provides uniform distribution of high melting components such as Y2 O3.
(JP7078612-A)      The pasting apparatus has a current collector and enlarged members having a top surface and a bottom surface and a thickness greater than the current collector is provided. The current collector has one predetermined area into which paste is to be filled. The apparatus comprises a paste-dispensing nozzle having an orifice located in a dispensing end of the nozzle. The nozzle is mounted to dispense paste in one paste area of the collector assembly. The nozzle dispensing end is adapted to size a first level of paste dispensed in the paste area on one side of the current collector, and a surface is provided opposite the dispensing end of the nozzle which is adapted to size a second level of paste dispensed in the paste area on the other side of the current collector.    The clearance between the nozzle dispensing end and opposing sizing surface is adjusted such that paste is dispensed from the nozzle, flows into the paste area of the collector assembly, and is sized such that the first level is intermediate the stop surface of the enlarged members and the current collector and the second level is intermediate the current collector and the bottom surface of the enlarged members. Thus, the enlarged portions of the collector assembly are left free of paste.    ADVANTAGE -   Reduces amount of downtime caused by clogging of nozzles.
(JP3138118-B2)      The system uses an air blower (4) having a part cooling apparatus (20) connected at the discharge side of blower. An electrically equipped setting is connected to the discharge side of air blower. This is capable of changing the speed of the blower by using a speed control apparatus (13) of the blower. A branched air supply pipeline (21A) of the cooling apparatus forces cooling air to a region between a fuel modifier (3) and a fuel battery main part (2).    Another pipeline (21B) forces cooling air to left, outer part of the battery main part. Air is used through a lower part (7) to supply cooling air to right side of fuel modifier outer part. The air blower also supplies reaction air and combustion air to the fuel battery main part and the modifier. A ventilation fan (6) is used to force out the hot air from the system.    ADVANTAGE -   Allows increased hot air discharge. Allows simplified provision for the electrical setting without spoiling cooling function.
(US5738773-A)      A sensor for the detection of oxidisable components in a gas or vapour comprises a pair of working electrodes (12) which face each other defining a sample receiving space. Also claimed is a fuel cell having a closed loop electrical contact (15,16) for 1 of its electrodes (12) the loop being circumjacent the operative surface of the electrode.    USE -   The appts is used e.g. in breath testing.    ADVANTAGE -   Facing working electrodes increase the surface area of the working electrode for a given cell volume providing a faster acting, more sensitive cell. The loop electrical contacts ensure a large contact area removing localised effects.    (EP712492-B1)      A sensor for the detection of oxidisable components in a gas or vapour comprises a pair of working electrodes (12) which face each other defining a sample receiving space. Also claimed is a fuel cell having a closed loop electrical contact (15,16) for 1 of its electrodes (12) the loop being circumjacent the operative surface of the electrode.    USE -   The appts is used e.g. in breath testing.    ADVANTAGE -   Facing working electrodes increase the surface area of the working electrode for a given cell volume providing a faster acting, more sensitive cell. The loop electrical contacts ensure a large contact area removing localised effects.
(WO9525357-A1)      The fuel cell stack has a humidification section located upstream from the electrochemically active section. The inlet fuel and oxidant streams are introduced into the humidification section without first being directed through the electrochemically active section.    The upstream location of the humidification section in the stack enables the number of manifold openings in the active section to be reduced.    ADVANTAGE -   Increases area available for electrochemical reaction.
(JP2957844-B2)      The structure of a fuel battery is formed by a cell (4) which consists of an anode (2) and a cathode (3) with an electrolyte matrix (1) in between. A plate (5) having a pair of internal manifold (16, 17) is placed above the cathode. A plate (7) having the internal manifold is placed below the cathode. An anode shim (18) which carries out sealing of gas is placed between the electrolyte matrix and the plate (7). A cathode shim (19) is placed between the electrolyte matrix and the plate (5). A sheet member (20) whose thickness is larger than the thickness of electrolyte is placed inner side of cathode shim.    ADVANTAGE -   Improves performance of battery. Provides high electric power generation efficiency. Increases comprehensive energy efficiency. Reduces undesired sound and vibration.
(WO9509450-A1)      A high temp. fuel cell having two temp. zones for directly converting a carbon fuel to electrical energy. The fuel cell comprises:- (a) a housing including a non-porous section and a solid electrolyte; (b) a first heat source on the housing near the electrolyte and (c) a second heat source on the housing remote from the first heat source. The electrolyte has first and second surfaces to which respective electrodes are attached. A fuel compartment is formed from the non-porous section and the second surface of the electrolyte. The heat sources establish separate temp. zones in the fuel compartment. Current is electrochemically generated by the mass transport of oxygen across the electrolyte. Carbon is burnt in the fuel compartment when an oxygen-contg. gas is brought into contact with the outer surface of the electrolyte.    Also claimed is a method of directly converting carbon fuels to electrical energy using the above high temp. fuel cell. In this method the temp. in the first temp. zone is adjusted to minimise the impedance of the electrolyte and the temp. in the second zone it is adjusted to favour the oxidn. of carbon fuel to CO2 rather than CO. When oxygen is supplied to the second surface electric current can be withdrawn from the electrodes.    USE -   Fuel cells for the direct electrochemical conversion of carbon to electrochemical energy.    ADVANTAGE -   Solid fuel such as coal is directly converted into electricity avoiding the energy and efficiency costs of intermediate gasification.
(JP3197108-B2)      A hydrogen generator has an outer cylinder whose bottom is closed and an intermediate cylinder and an inner cylinder positioned inside the outer cylinder. The outer and intermediate and inner cylinder are vertically shaped. A catalyst is filled in the second ring space between the intermediate and inner cylinder. Sweep gas pipes are positioned in the third space which is formed with an outer wall and an inner wall of a hydrogen permeable rectangular solid which has a metal film which selectively passes hydrogen.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   The generator separates and collects hydrogen generated with the vapour modification reaction, passing through a wall which with selective hydrogen permeability characteristics.    In an example, a hydrogen generator (10) had an outer cylinder (10), an intermediate cylinder (14), an inner cylinder (18), a catalyst layer (26), a hydrogen permeable rectangular solid (34), a second ring space (26), a third space (33) and sweep gas pipes (36).
(JP2952741-B2)      System for treating condensed water and/or battery cooling water, consists of pretreating appts. composed of distn. column and wet catalyst oxidn. appts., or gas phase catalyst oxidn. appts., and high temp. evapn. pure water mfg. appts..    ADVANTAGE -   System does not use ion exchange resin, and does not involve cooling treating water to under -40 deg.C..    In an example, the plant 1. is a decarboxylation column, 2. is a distn. column, 3. is a wet catalyser column, 4. is a gas-liq. sepn. column, 5. is an evaporator and 8. is a vacuum appts..
(JP2864928-B2)      The material is a perovskite type metallic oxide of compsn. BaCe1-xMxO3-y, where x=0-1 and y is no more than 1.5. By varying the amt. of M in the oxide compsn., the lattice constant ratios, e.g. b/c, c/a,etc., are suitably altered affecting the conductivity. The parameters for orthorhombics are alpha = beta = gamma = 90 degrees and a is not equal to b and b is not equal to c.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   Used in fuel cells as electrochemical sensors. The polycrystalline sintered body possesses high temp. ionic conductivity with good chemical stability.
(JP6333555-A)      The battery terminal (10) has a main part (11) in the shape of flat board to which an electrode press fit part (12a) of conductive material is connected. It has a press fit hole (12h) for a battery mail box (1). A wire joining part (12b) of the main part is attached with a bolt (14). The terminals (T1,T2) are connected with a nut (15). As the main part is lifted up with the cone like electrode press fit part, the bolt attached through wire joining part penetrates through the hole and is clamped with a nut. Thereby the arrangement connects the terminals with the battery mail box and it is pressure welded to the electrode press fit part.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   For use in terminal attachment battery mail box which carries battery for motor vehicles. Raises efficiency and fixes terminals without solder. Provides high degrees of freedom to battery terminal. Avoids interference of wires into main part of battery.    (JP2924561-B2)      A holed (11e) main conductive terminal (10) member (11)    having a stud bolt (14) is placed over a battery post (I). A    conductive ring member (12) is placed at an angle on top of it    and fits into a pressor member (11d) at its end.    A cable connection portion (12b) of the ring member fits over    the bolt and is angled w.r.t. a post fitting portion (12a)    having an extending hollow conical projection (12i). Cable    terminals (T1,T2) are then placed onto the bolt. As a nut (15)    is tightened down on them, the ring member is forced down and    its conical projection clamps to the battery post.    ADVANTAGE -   Can be secured to the battery post and cable terminal by a single thread tightening operation. Positions cable connector and battery cable in direction preventing interference with other components during assembly of battery terminal to battery post.
(DE4320993-C2)      A car driven by an IC engine and/or an electric motor, has a battery (and electric motor, in the latter case) which is easily detachable. The battery sits under the hood (bonnet) and is withdrawn by pulling it on a special trolley straight forwards from the front, or backwards from the rear, of the car. There are mating guide rails on both battery and car. The electrical connections are of the "quick" variety, like plug-socket connectors. The trolley is adjustable in height for different cars and may have a battery charger with mains lead.    ADVANTAGE -   Battery/electric motor can be removed to reduce weight on long-distance non-urban driving.
(JP3098135-B2)      The fuel battery protection method uses a protective device to protect multilayered fuel batteries. The device is connected to any one of the many cells of a battery. A voltage measuring device (7) measures the output voltage of the cell. When the output voltage detector drops below the predetermined level, it initiates a control device (8) to shut off the battery operation.    ADVANTAGE -   Prevents damage to fuel battery due to operation at low voltages. Enables connection to any cell of battery. Prevents dangerous reaction due to abnormal reaction of gas. Provides simple and economical composition.
(JP3102969-B2)      The fuel battery device has a multilayer body. An electrolyte layer (3) is provided which is sandwiched between a fuel gas electrode (1) and oxidisation gas electrode (2). A separator (9) isolates these individual sets of electrode and electrolyte structure from one another. A quality change catalyser (11) is provided in the cavity type structure which is by the side of separator.    Two gas circulation paths are provided in the separator structure. In the upper portion (6) of this structure, the oxidisation gas is circulated. In the lower portion (5), fuel gas is circulator. The gas enters through a vertical manifold along the sides.    ADVANTAGE -   Prolongs life of quality catalyser. Enables easy set-up. Controls low temperature operating portion. Increases reliability.
(WO9429922-A1)      A fuel cell stack includes several electrical solid electrolyte high temp (HT) fuel cells, connected in series lying fixed one above the other and between adjacent cells a polar plate is integrated. Cathode of one cell is connected to anode of another cell. The monoblock concept is used.    At least one place is provided in the compartment, at which the air (22) found in the air outlet chamber (16), can be cooled using the air (36) flowing into the air inlet chamber (28), which at least is partly recirculatable.    ADVANTAGE -   With small pressure loss, leads to higher use of combustion gas and oxygen carrier in HT cell systems.    (JP8506691-W)      A fuel cell stack includes several electrical solid electrolyte high temp (HT) fuel cells, connected in series lying fixed one above the other and between adjacent cells a polar plate is integrated. Cathode of one cell is connected to anode of another cell. The monoblock concept is used.    At least one place is provided in the compartment, at which the air (22) found in the air outlet chamber (16), can be cooled using the air (36) flowing into the air inlet chamber (28), which at least is partly recirculatable.    ADVANTAGE -   With small pressure loss, leads to higher use of combustion gas and oxygen carrier in HT cell systems.    (US5914200-A)      A fuel cell stack includes several electrical solid electrolyte high temp (HT) fuel cells, connected in series lying fixed one above the other and between adjacent cells a polar plate is integrated. Cathode of one cell is connected to anode of another cell. The monoblock concept is used.    At least one place is provided in the compartment, at which the air (22) found in the air outlet chamber (16), can be cooled using the air (36) flowing into the air inlet chamber (28), which at least is partly recirculatable.    ADVANTAGE -   With small pressure loss, leads to higher use of combustion gas and oxygen carrier in HT cell systems.
(US5459922-A)      Apparatus for loading groups of battery plates in adjacent cells having a common mid-plane in a holder, comprising guide means for defining adjacent spaces, each space having a greater cross-section than a cell, means for inserting the groups in respective spaces, means for contracting the guide means and for adjusting the spacing of the groups so that the spaces substantially corresponding in size and relative position with the cells, means for inserting the guide means in the cells with the group in the spaces and means for inserting the groups into respective cells.    (JP8500207-W)      The loading appts. includes the guide which defines adjacent spaces (40) each with a greater cross-section than a cell, for receiving battery groups. The guide can be contracted and the spacing of the group adjusted to suit.    The guide comprises of walls (37,38) which are collapsed around the groups until the positioning and spacing corresponds to that of a row of cells (1,3). At this point groups are pushed through the guide into respective cells.    ADVANTAGE -   Improved efficiency. Easier cell insertion.
(JP7184318-A)      The combination comprises a battery (11), a load (12) and a circuit (10) for protecting the load against the effects of a reverse connected battery. The circuit includes a second circuit for biasing the MOSFET into a conductive state, when the battery is properly connected.    A second circuit biases the MOSFET into a non-conductive state when the battery in reverse connected, and includes a circuit to short the gate of the MOSFET to the source of the MOSFET when the battery is reverse connected. Shorting is carried out by using depletion mode.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   E.g. suitable for loads commonly found contg. semiconductors likely to be damaged by reverse battery conditions. Neither gate driver nor control circuitry is susceptible to being reverse biased in event that battery is connected in reverse.    (EP626745-B1)      The combination comprises a battery (11), a load (12) and a circuit (10) for protecting the load against the effects of a reverse connected battery. The circuit includes a second circuit for biasing the MOSFET into a conductive state, when the battery is properly connected.    A second circuit biases the MOSFET into a non-conductive state when the battery in reverse connected, and includes a circuit to short the gate of the MOSFET to the source of the MOSFET when the battery is reverse connected. Shorting is carried out by using depletion mode.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   E.g. suitable for loads commonly found contg. semiconductors likely to be damaged by reverse battery conditions. Neither gate driver nor control circuitry is susceptible to being reverse biased in event that battery is connected in reverse.
(JP2747972-B2)      Culture comprises incubating a complex mixt. of aerobic and anaerobic microorganisms on a large scale. The culture is performed by filling sterilised water in fermentation tank; adding sterilised molasses at a rate of 0.05-0.2%; adjusting resulting culture medium to pH 2.8-3.5; adding complex mixt. at rate of 1/50-1/200 by vol.; and incubating at 25-30 deg.C while maintaining pH at 2.8-3.5 with an organic acid.    Incubation may be performed anaerobically in a water-filled tank, to which molasses is added, at 0.05-0.2% (pref. 0.09-0.11%). Culture medium is adjusted to pH 2.8-3.5 (pref. pH 3.0-3.1) with organic acid, e.g. lactic acid, citric acid, acetic acid. Incubation may be contained by standing for 7-10 days. Anaerobic microorganisms usually aggregate on the surface of medium, so that opt stirring to homogenise mixt. Cell mumber reaches max. after 7-10 day incubation, but incubation may be continued for approx. one month in order to cause maturity.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   Method is useful for large scale prodn. of useful microorganisms, concurrently in one fermentation vessel and can be applied to agriculture (soil improvement, prevention of injurious insects, prepn. of compost), stock farming (livestock feed, deodorisation, decomposition of livestock waste) and purification of water. Method can also be applied to bacteria. Actinomycetes, yeast, and photosynthesis bacteria. Complex mixt. of microorganisms can be multiplied easily in an inexpensive prodn. equipment.
(JP8033894-A)      Waste soln. contg. organic aminocarboxylic acids is biologically treated and biologically treated in the presence of active carbon. The biological treatment in the presence of active carbon is conducted under an aerobic condition. The active carbon used is a combination of active carbon made from pitch and that made from coal or that made from a coconut shell.    USE -   For stably and effectively making waste photographic soln. harmless at low cost.    (EP683138-B1)      The process comprises:    (a) a first biological treatment, and    (b) a second biological treatment in the presence of activated carbon.    Also claimed is a process for making a photoprocessing waste soln. harmless comprising opt. a third step of:    (c) biological nitrification and denitrification.    USE -   Used for making harmless a waste soln. contg. organic aminocarboxylic acids.    ADVANTAGE -   The invention provides a simple low-cost process which causes no environmental pollution.
(JP2587786-B2)      Process comprises dispersing the manure in purified, wood vinegar, fermentation, and culture of non-sporogenic Actinomycetes to degrade and remove uric acid.    Typically, chicken manure is dispersed with purified wood vinegar and fermented at below 90 deg.C. Then, non-sporogenic Actinomycetes is cultured at below 60 deg.C to degrade and remove uric acid and to prevent growth of nematodes.    In an example chicken manure is mixed with purified wood vinegar to given water content of 40% and fermented. The treated manure is than fermented to culture and proliferate non-sporogenic actinomycetes.
(JP3176503-B2)      Appts. comprises a treating vessel (8) having an inlet hole (12) of organic waste at the upper part of one end, liq. outlet (13) at the lower part of one end, outlet (14) of treated materials at the lower part of another end and having a circular section with an inclined surface so that the outlet of treated material is placed at a higher part than the liq. outlet, and a transporting screw (31) supported rotatably in the treating vessel to transport organic waste toward the outlet of treated materials by rotating it.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   Used to ferment, dewater and dry unnecessary organic waste, e.g. garbage in homes or restaurants, cut turf or weeds. Organic waste is reclaimed as liq. fertiliser or compost by continuously treating it without use of excess energy.
(EP757771-A1)      Pipelines (24) of 10-30 cm. dia. are treated by introducing a pack, which has been wound with UV-hardening sheet (19), positioning it at the damaged location, and pushing the sheet onto the inner wall of the pipeline (24), by means of air pressure. The sheet is then hardened using a UV light source (18). Finally, the pressure is released to remove the pack. Appts. to carry out the above procedure, is also claimed.    USE -   To repair or refurbish underground pipelines of about 10-30 cm. dia.    ADVANTAGE -   Leakage of gases and liquids from underground pipelines signifies waste and environmental pollution. Unfortunately many such pipelines are not large enough to allow internal manual working. Digging causes disruption and expense, hence a remotely operated automatic device is very attractive. Plenty of methods exist to re-line an entire pipeline, they do not make economic sense in a situation where there are only localised failures, in a length exceeding say 100 m. The subject pack can place the liner at the site of damage, in conjunction with a CCTV camera if necessary. The materials, method of placement and structure of the liner, are aimed at a relatively thin lining to minimise flow obstruction. The in-situ repair is fast, low-cost.
(DE4415861-A1)      The volatile organic compounds or VOCs, are abstracted in a cold scrubber (2) at very low temperatures, where the lighter components are present as fluid condensate. The condensate is removed, pressurised, and passed to heat exchange (10). The extraction stream is heated to ambient temperature, and freed of water in the receiver (21). Dry organic fluid condensate (9), is produced from the plant. The equilibrium between the produced fluid product (9) and the organic vapour quantity contained in the air (1), is compensated, after the adjustment of fluid levels.    USE -   The plant recovers VOCs from the air displaced from refinery tanks, or other organic fluid production and use centres, esp. where modern emission limits are prescribed.    ADVANTAGE -   Other processes using a cold fluid are generally not able to condense the lightest hydrocarbons at temperatures as low as -150 C. The significant achievement of the subject system is to use the cold medium not only as a condensing agent, but also as an absorbent. Hence it can absorb and remove very low boiling, and therefore highly volatile VOCs, at temps. too high for their condensation.    (US5507147-A)      A method of sepg. vaporous substances from a gaseous medium contg. a high proportion of at least one component having a low boiling point, comprising the steps of: cooling the gaseous medium in scrubber means; providing in the scrubber means a location having a temp. sufficiently low to reduce the component to a liq. condensate having an inherent coldness component; removing the liq. condensate from the location; raising the pressure of the liq. condensate; transferring the coldness component of the liq. condensate to a circulating refrigerant medium to reduce the temp. of it, thereby raising the temp. of the liq. condensate to ambient temp.; removing water from the liq. condensate; and recovering the liq. condensate.
(DE4415017-C2)      The digester, primarily for animal waste, has a lower, conical first stage (2) and a ring-shaped second stage (3), interconnected by transfer openings (12). At the top of the digester, the gas spaces (6,7) are for CH4 and CO2. Heaters (8) adjust the process temperature in the first stage (2). To prevent a floating mat accumulation, there are arrangements (9) for thorough mixing. In the second stage (3), between the first stage (2) and the reactor inner wall, there is an aerobic filter (4). This is glass fibre, mounted on a carrier frame in a star profile. The lower part of the second stage (3), is constructed as a sludge bed reactor (5).    USE -   To treat plant- and animal wastes, especially sludge, as well as inorganic waste products. To obtain an unusually high calorific value of bio-gas, enriched in methane.    ADVANTAGE -   Pollution from animal waste is on the increase; factory farming contributes to the problem. Undigested material is rich in nitrogen; leads to ammonia emissions. Chemical and membrane filtration technologies have been proposed to dispose of the sludge, but are costly. Bio-gas reactors are attractive, but a number of drawbacks in the prior art, are cited. This bio-reactor claims a higher working efficiency, with effective adaptation to differing working conditions, and security of function. The requirement for, and expense of additional equipment is minimal. CO2 produced predominantly in the first stage is separated. Higher calorific value methane, and a worthwhile reduction in plant volume results.
(WO9528238-A1)      The watertight container receives contaminated material, e.g. earth, for treatment. Water, and agents promoting breakdown of pollutants are supplied. Process water and air from the skip, are intercepted to be filtered or cleaned, and recirculated. The closure of the container is air- and water- vapour permeable. At the top, the fluid is distributed by the trickling irrigator; at the base, the interceptor collects the effluent air and process water. Reduced pressure is used to remove them. In addition to the plant described, the system for treatment, and the method of treatment, are also claimed.    USE -   To purify uplifted, contaminated earth. Suitable for crude, and other petroleum-based pollution.    ADVANTAGE -   Reconditioning of contaminated earth, is of ever increasing significance. Operators can no longer rely on tipping, since suitable sites become more and more scarce. Fixed facilities are known, where soil may be taken for treatment, with obvious transport penalties. Such plant is expensive to install and use. The outstanding advantage of the subject system, is that it may be delivered and set up on site. at the point of need. The capacity may be stacked to any required level, to balance, e.g. the quantity of contamination, and required rate of disposal. The system intercepts its own air and water, will not be a nuisance in its own right. Activated carbon or biological filters may be used for their treatment. Suitable nutrients, intended to stimulate the growth of microorganisms, to break down the contaminants, are already available commercially. A diet of ''BIOCRACK'' (RTM) may be employed, for example.
(US5460967-B1)      A solution of soluble collagen (I) is produced by (a) providing a ground slurry (II) of insoluble collagen; (b) adding a proteolytic enzyme (III) to (II); (c) reacting (II) with (III) to produce solution (I); and (d) withdrawing (I) as product.    USE -   Solubilised collagen is of use in prodn. of paper with higher strength from recycled fibres, and as a binder for cellulosic materials.    ADVANTAGE -   Cost of the present method is lower than that of prior enzymatic and non-enzymatic methods.
(WO9529885-A1)      A compost curing system has a bay with one sidewall and a V-shaped turning appts., one leg formed by a pair of counter-rotating augers and the other a conveyor, with an adjustment hinge at the V base. The appts. is pivotally connected to a support carriage movable along a bridge crane overlying the bay with one end supported on the sidewall and the other by a beam with a bottom foot.    The appts. is positioned in an off-loading area with the augers contacting the compost pile edge to fragment the compost and move it onto the conveyor for transporting into new piles and the crane is stepped along the sidewall after each traverse of the carriage. The bay is pref. enclosed and has an air circulation system with a heat regulator and deodorising biofilter.    USE -   For reducing pathogens in solid waste or sewage sludge compost after exiting a digester.    ADVANTAGE -   Permits automatic and highly flexible processing.    (EP706504-B1)      A compost curing system has a bay with one sidewall and a V-shaped turning appts., one leg formed by a pair of counter-rotating augers and the other a conveyor, with an adjustment hinge at the V base. The appts. is pivotally connected to a support carriage movable along a bridge crane overlying the bay with one end supported on the sidewall and the other by a beam with a bottom foot.    The appts. is positioned in an off-loading area with the augers contacting the compost pile edge to fragment the compost and move it onto the conveyor for transporting into new piles and the crane is stepped along the sidewall after each traverse of the carriage. The bay is pref. enclosed and has an air circulation system with a heat regulator and deodorising biofilter.    USE -   For reducing pathogens in solid waste or sewage sludge compost after exiting a digester.    ADVANTAGE -   Permits automatic and highly flexible processing.
(WO9529212-A1)      Treatment plant for a combination of unsorted industrial and/or domestic and/or urban and/or hospital waste using two energy converters mounted in tandem is disclosed. One is an electrically heated fixed thermolyser and the other is a steam or electric generator. The two are driven by an expert system to optimise the combination of waste.    The molecules in the waste are cracked at 450-650 C in a first thermal electric converter without preliminary drying, after crushing the waste with the exception of tyres which remain whole. The installation produces two phases. The first is solid (metals are sorted magnetically for ferrous, by Foucault current for non-ferrous) and carbonated dehalogenated solids before they are put in a form for sale (briquettes or balls) or storage. The other is gaseous and is immediately useable for generating electricity or steam.    USE -   Treatment of waste in a system which is non-polluting, secure and affordable.
(DE4414459-A1)      Biological treatment of wastes (such as household wastes, etc). which contain organic materials, in a multi-step degradation process, comprises: (a) communication and conditioning of the wastes to a pumpable and stirrable suspension; and (b) rendering the wastes inert by subjecting them to anaerobic conditions. Step (b) is carried out in continuous passage through at least two sequential reaction areas. It is carried out such that the suspension entering the individual reaction areas has a substantially constant solids content.    ADVANTAGE -   The process allows complete degradation of the wastes, even when these contain organic substances which are difficult to break down.
(EP755455-A1)       The biodegradability of a sample is determined by placing it in an aerated culture solution, and measuring the amt. of carbon dioxide liberated, biodegradability being determined on the basis of this amt. The amt. is measured by passing the CO2 into a non-precipitating alkali solution, and measuring the conductivity of the solution; the amt. of CO2absorbed is determined on the basis of the conductivity.    USE -   For plastics.    ADVANTAGE -   Simpler and faster than the standard Sturm test, time-consuming titrations are avoided, and the method is automatic.    (JP9511402-W)       The biodegradability of a sample is determined by placing it in an aerated culture solution, and measuring the amt. of carbon dioxide liberated, biodegradability being determined on the basis of this amt. The amt. is measured by passing the CO2 into a non-precipitating alkali solution, and measuring the conductivity of the solution; the amt. of CO2absorbed is determined on the basis of the conductivity.    USE -   For plastics.    ADVANTAGE -   Simpler and faster than the standard Sturm test, time-consuming titrations are avoided, and the method is automatic.
(WO9612564-A1)      The constituent (C) contained in an organic liq. (L) is converted into a prod. (P) by (a) introducing (L) into a vessel; (b) introducing an aq. liq. (A) in droplet form into the vessel into contact with (L), the droplets contg. biocatalyst (B); (c) subjecting the droplets on entry into (L) to an electric field, to cause the droplets to rupture forming microdroplets; (d) opt. subjecting the droplets during flow through (L) to a second electric field to cause re-coalesced droplets to continuously recoalesce and rupture to microdroplets; (e) reacting (B) with (C) to form (P); (f) recovering (L) depleted in (C); and (g) recovering (A).    An appts. for the process is also claimed.    USE -   Used for desulphurisation of petroleum using sulphate-reducing bacteria. Another application is reaction of phenols by oxidn. catalysed by horseradish peroxidase.
(DE4443828-A1)      A barrier for preventing the spread of pollutants in the soil or ground water, based on humic substances, is claimed.    Also claimed is a process for producing a barrier as above, comprising introducing a humate soln. into the soil and then precipitating humic substances.    ADVANTAGE -   The barrier becomes colonised with microorganisms that accelerate pollutant degradation, and is effective even under anaerobic conditions (cf. DE4242682).
(JP7285890-A)       Hydrodechlorination of a chlorinated alkane (I) to give reaction prods. including its corresp. less-chlorinated alkane and HCl, is effected by reacting (I) with H2in the gas phase in the presence of a catalyst comprising a supported mixt. of active Gp.VIII hydrogenating metals in elemental or cpd. form on a support.     The Gp. VIII metals are pref. Pt and Ru. The catalyst is a bimetallic catalyst of Pt and Ru on a support. The support is an inert support and is pref. Si or more pref. high surface area C. The reaction conditions include pressures of 1 atmos.-1000 psig at 25-400C, a residence time of 0.1-7200s and a H2 /(I) feed molar ratio of 0.2:1-100:1. Owing to the highly exothermic nature of the reaction a high heat capacity inert (e.g. CH4) may be incorporated in the feed (addn. of which may be staged) to moderate reaction rate.    USE -   The process may be used to convert 1,2-dichloropropane to predominantly propane and HCl.    ADVANTAGE -   Chlorinated alkanes are converted into a less-chlorinated, and esp. non-chlorinated alkanes and HCl. Esp. 30% (and 93%) of 1,2-dichloropropane is converted to prods. including propane.    (US5476984-A)      A process for the hydrodechlorination of a chlorinated alkane containing two or more carbons to reaction products including its corresponding, less-chlorinated alkane and hydrogen chloride, comprising reacting the chlorinated alkane with hydrogen in the presence of a bimetallic catalyst of a) platinum and b) ruthenium, iridium or iron in elemental or compound form on a support, under conditions effective to carry out such hydrodechlorination.
(JP2704829-B2)      The frame portion is formed by fusing a number of adjoining synthetic fibre frames composing filaments to each other, which are woven in peripheral portions of a cloth.    USE -   Used as a flat filter attached to an inlet of air conditioner, a microorganism breeding bed in a microorganism contact type water purifying plant, etc..    ADVANTAGE -   The framed cloth works for different fields for weaving of cloth and forming of frame portions can be performed by single process.
(JP2673488-B2)      The waste water-contg. region (7-1) is kept in aerobic state by aeration with air (30a) in the presence of solid particles (8) carrying aerobic microorganisms and anaerobic microorganisms, and then (7-1) is kept in almost anaerobic state by aeration with N2 rich air (30b). These treatments are repeated to remove organic material and nitrogen cpds..    USE -   Process to remove organic material and nitrogen material from organic waste water.
(BE1010197-A3)      An organic material composting bin (1) has a liq. draining valve (7) mounted near the base of the bin (1). Pref. the bin (1) is a standard wheeled dustbin or waste bin and the draining valve (7) is fitted in the lower part of the bin. The bin has a grille (4) mounted above its base to support compost material; ventilation orifices (6) below the level of the grille and in the lid (10).    ADVANTAGE -   The valve allows liq. to be drained off when desired.
(EP751923-B1)      Novel method of degrading material contg. organic components comprises treating the material with one or more enzymes (I) capable of degrading the organic components, and with microorganisms (II) capable of growth on the components and on the prods. of the enzymatic degradation, thus generating additional enzymatic activity.    USE -   The method is esp. applicable to the composting of grass cuttings.    ADVANTAGE -   The method overcomes the problem of prodn. of high levels of methane which is seen when grass cuttings are placed in landfill sites.
(JP2627481-B2)      Composting organic waste comprises a step to inoculate organic waste with seed bacteria contg. actinomycetes and acclimatise them for necessary time, step to return a part of organic waste contg. 2 x 10 power 5 - 1 x 10 power 10 of actinomycetes in an activation state after acclimatisation to the inlet side of treating tank and step to mix the returned organic waste with replenished organic waste and transport them to the discharging side stirring them with a stirrer.    Also claimed is the composting appts. comprising running and stirring appts. (2), having a main stirrer (22) and substirrer (23), and shifting along a rail provided along the side wall (10) of treating tank.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   To compost organic waste having high water content, e.g. livestock excreta, blood from slaughterhouse or distillation waste from distilleries. Organic waste can be rapidly composted and a part of organic waste can automatically be returned to increase the working environment.
(JP2916742-B2)      In the fermentation treatment of organic waste, where organic waste having its moisture adjusted has fermentation bacteria and a fermentation accelerating agent added, is agitated, and, finally, dried to obtain a fermentation treated material; the organic waste to which the fermentation bacteria has been added is mixed and kneaded giving heat shocks by heating at a temp. higher than the optimum fermentation temp.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   Used to ferment organic waste including animal waste such as fish, cattle faeces, etc. or plant waste such as kitchen refuse, organic waste discharged from food factories, etc. Since the heat shocks are applied to the fermentation bacteria, the functions of life-maintenance and self-conservation are applied to the fermentation bacteria. Thus, it is activated, and fermentation treatment is carried out quickly.
(JP2528618-B2)      Fermented organic fertilisers are produced by fermentation of green algae, opt. activated sludge, and nutrients (e.g. rice bran, partic. rapeseed meal), with fermentative microorganisms, partic. with a water content of 50-70%, esp. 63%, then with Trichoderma lignorum under acidic conditions. Mixts. of green algae, activated sludge, rice bran, rapeseed meal and other nutrients are pref. fermented with fermentative microorganism(s), then the mixt. is acidified and further fermented with Trichoderma lignorum.    USE -   Used for improving soil with slow release of fertiliser to improve microflora.
(US5753003-A)      Contaminant decomposition microorganism and soil aggregate forming agent are added to contaminated soil.    Also claimed is a process for restoring contaminated soil, in which contaminant decomposition microorganism and soil aggregate forming agent are added to the contaminated soil followed by application of physical turbulence, pref. heating, stirring, application of vibration, application of supersonic waves, or freezing followed by drying.    The soil aggregate forming agent pref. contains particles and natural origin adhesive agent, esp. protein type, starch type, cellulose type or heteropolysaccharide type. The particle is inorganic material or organic material, having a particle size of up to 10 microns, esp. up to 6 microns.    ADVANTAGE -   Aggregate formation in the soil may be accelerated and the contaminated soil may be well restored under stabilised conditions.    In an example, Pseudomonas cepacia KK01 (BP-4235) was cultured in M9 culture medium. When OD (600 nm) reached 0.7, montmorillonite (average particle size of 2 microns) was added to the soln. to give a concn. of 0.01%. Sugar and flour were added as adhesive agent to the soln. where the montmorillonite adsorbing the bacteria was suspending, to give a soil aggregate forming agent.
(ZA9505224-A)      Precious metal-contg. ore is leached with a bisulphide lixiviant (I) and precious metal(s) are recovered therefrom. (I) is obtd. by biologically reducing a dissolved sulphate under anaerobic conditions to obtain (I) of neutral pH. Appts. for carrying out the leaching is also claimed.    USE -   Ore may be mined mineral, waste, or damaged electronic components. Precious metals for recovery are Au, Ag and/or Pt, Pd, Ru, Rh, Os and Ir. Process may be in form of heap leaching.    ADVANTAGE -   Lixiviant can be obtd. biologically instead of purchasing, leading to lower costs. Use of cyanide is avoided and process is more environmentally acceptable.
(JP2652511-B2)      Compost prodn. accelerator is prepd. from dehydrated cake of pptd. activated sludge, partic. with added cured animal faeces, rice straw and husks, esp. 25-45 v/v% each of animal faeces and dehydrated cake of pptd. activated sludge, opt. with added water-absorbing polymer resin.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   Used as fertiliser. Prodn. of compost without bad odour or maggots.    Claimed raw materials are mixed and fermented.    In an example, compost accelerator prepd. by the process was placed on kitchen waste with unendurable bad odour and allowed to stand for 7 days; the bad odour remained a little. After 30 days no bad odour was detected and the vol. of waste became 1/3.
(JP7272742-A)      Fuel cell stack comprises: (a) solid oxide electrolyte members with anode and cathode on opposite surfaces defining anode and cathode chambers; (b) H2 supply passage to the anode chambers, the passages contg. a catalyst for steam reforming hydrocarbon fuel to H2, heat being supplied to the steam reforming reaction from the fuel cells; (c) oxidant supply to the cathode chambers; (d) an adiabatic prereformer for converting heavier hydrocarbons to CH4, H2 and COx for supply to the fuel gas passages; and (e) a hydrocarbon supply to the prereformer.    ADVANTAGE -   Fuel cell stack design facilitates indirect internal reforming.    (EP673074-B1)      Fuel cell stack comprises: (a) solid oxide electrolyte members with anode and cathode on opposite surfaces defining anode and cathode chambers; (b) H2 supply passage to the anode chambers, the passages contg. a catalyst for steam reforming hydrocarbon fuel to H2, heat being supplied to the steam reforming reaction from the fuel cells; (c) oxidant supply to the cathode chambers; (d) an adiabatic prereformer for converting heavier hydrocarbons to CH4, H2 and COx for supply to the fuel gas passages; and (e) a hydrocarbon supply to the prereformer.    ADVANTAGE -   Fuel cell stack design facilitates indirect internal reforming.
(EP673886-A2)      Reducing slime- and film-formation in appts. in which water from paper- or cellulose-machines is circulated, comprises addn. of nutrients, which favour growth of non-sessile microorganisms rather than sessile microorganisms, to the circulating water.    USE -   The process may be used in water-circulation systems in general.    ADVANTAGE -   The process is more environmentally friendly than prior art processes.    (US5618429-A)      A method for reducing slime and film formation in a plant which circulates water from paper and pulp machines or a plant which circulates cooling water, said method comprising the steps of: (a) adding nutrients which favour the growth of non-sessile microorganisms to the circulating water; and (b) adjusting the addition of the nutrients to favour the growth of non-sessile microorganisms over the growth of sessile microorganisms.    (DE4410271-C2)      Reducing slime- and film-formation in appts. in which water from paper- or cellulose-machines is circulated, comprises addn. of nutrients, which favour growth of non-sessile microorganisms rather than sessile microorganisms, to the circulating water.    USE -   The process may be used in water-circulation systems in general.    ADVANTAGE -   The process is more environmentally friendly than prior art processes.
(DE4407680-A1)      The mobile assembly to turn over and mix compost has a motor-driven screw, along each projecting guide shield, to gather up the compost from the floor along the movement path.    ADVANTAGE -   The machine layout gives an improved collection of the compost for turning over and mixing through.    (EP671374-B1)      The mobile assembly to turn over and mix compost has a motor-driven screw, along each projecting guide shield, to gather up the compost from the floor along the movement path.    ADVANTAGE -   The machine layout gives an improved collection of the compost for turning over and mixing through.
(EP671224-B1)       Treatment of waste comprises initial crushing of the waste followed by drainage and drying stages before compressing the waste to reach a waste density of 1.4-1.5 tons/m3, with final drainage of percolate. The compressed waste is then thermally pasteurised without combustion to stabilise organic materials and destroy microorganisms, The pasteurised mass is then dispatched to a landfill in block form.    The crushing unit is of a sealed design and it is kept under slight negative pressure (2). A first drainage of percolate occurs through discharge duct (3). The crushed material is conveyed by enclosed belts to a storage and pre-drying unit (4) which is provided by a series of hoppers in a closed building. The hoppers are kept under a slight negative pressure by means of duct (5) which changes the air 3 to 4 times per hour. The hoppers are provided with means for a second drainage of percolate through duct (6).    USE -   For the treatment of urban solid waste.    ADVANTAGE -   The process is efficient and significantly reduces the volume of the waste and inactivates organic material in the waste, avoiding fermentation and the formation of biogas and noxious fumes.
(DE4406460-C2)       The purificn. of gas from the gasification of waste materials, comprising H2 , CO, CO2 , CH4 , H2 O, and impurities such as dust, H2 S, COS, NH3, HCl, HF and/or heavy metals, is effected by cooling the gas and scrubbing with water to remove condensable and water-soluble components. The resulting waste water is treated to remove impurities, which are at least partly recycled to the gasification step.    USE -    The purified gas may be used for combustion in gas engines, for H2recovery, for methanol synthesis, etc..    ADVANTAGE -   Waste disposal problems are minimised.
(DE4405303-C1)      The cutting and turning tool has individual angled blades (3a-o). These are located at relative distances in longitudinal and circumferential direction of the hollow shaft (1), so that the blade end (28) of the forward blade is located above or on the same level as, the cutting edge (27) of the following blade. There is at least one discharge aperture under the associated blade. The apertures are each located in an area, which is defined by the lower edge of the blade, a horizontal line through the cutting edge of the blade, and a vertical line through the blade end.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   Implement to loosen and mix contaminated grounds. Continuous homogenous mixing of ground, and good introduction of micro organisms, nutrients, etc.
(NL9400273-A)      A gas stream (I) is treated to remove volatile pollutants therefrom, using a combination of a biofilter BF and a trickling filter TF; TF comprises one or more microorganisms of the genus Hyphomicrobium which is suitable for decomposing organic sulphur cpds., on a support material.    USE -   The method is suitable for removing sulphur cpds. from gas streams from the chemical, petrochemical, dairy or paper industry, from waste water treatment, sludge processing, garbage dumps, composting and compost prepn. for mushroom cultures.    ADVANTAGE -   The method is simple, and suitable for purifying gas streams contg. a complex mixture of pollutants without giving rise to acidification or other adverse effects. water from the two filters can be recycled over TF, reducing need for waste water purification. TF humidifies the gas, eliminating need for a separate humidifier.    (EP669155-B1)      A gas stream (I) is treated to remove volatile pollutants therefrom, using a combination of a biofilter BF and a trickling filter TF; TF comprises one or more microorganisms of the genus Hyphomicrobium which is suitable for decomposing organic sulphur cpds., on a support material.    USE -   The method is suitable for removing sulphur cpds. from gas streams from the chemical, petrochemical, dairy or paper industry, from waste water treatment, sludge processing, garbage dumps, composting and compost prepn. for mushroom cultures.    ADVANTAGE -   The method is simple, and suitable for purifying gas streams contg. a complex mixture of pollutants without giving rise to acidification or other adverse effects. water from the two filters can be recycled over TF, reducing need for waste water purification. TF humidifies the gas, eliminating need for a separate humidifier.
(JP2646990-B2)       Appts. (I) includes a hydrogen redn. membrane comprising a hydrogen transmission membrane (II) and hydrogen redn. catalyst membrane (III). Materials to be reduced are supplied from (III) side in (I). H2is supplied from (II) side or both sides of the hydrogen redn. membrane.    Also claimed are hydrogen redn. materials comprising at least hydrogen redn. catalyst and hydrogen occlusion materials.    ADVANTAGE -   Hydrogen redn. is carried out efficiently at low temp.. Reduced materials are obtd. in a high conversion ratio (88-100%) and in a high reaction ratio (77-98%).
(JP2826947-B2)      Treatment of yeast extract composite waste where a yeast extract composite waste (YCW) is formed into a soluble soln. using a cultural soln. of a bacteria producing yeast-soluble enzyme (YLase). The soluble soln. is post-treated using anaerobic waste-water processes.    Also claimed is the use of bacteria producing YLase as Oerskovia sp. E 24 registered as No. FERM P-13692.    USE -   COD of YCW (e.g. beer yeast composite waste) can be removed in high quality, using the bacteria.    In an example, YCW was post-treated at 37 deg.C with opt. addn. of ultrasonic wave, or 42 deg.C in pH 6.5 or 5.0, using cultural solns. of E 24. The decomposition rate (%) (I) and solubilisation rate (%) (II) were Blank (I) 12.3 and (II) 25.4; 37 deg.C pH 6.5, (I) 75.3, and (II) 72.1; 37 deg.C pH 5.0, (I) 72.3, and 63.8; at 42 deg.C pH 6.5, (I) 75.4 and 69.5; pH 5.0, (I) 74.0, and (II) 62.2; and at 37 deg.C with ultrasonic wave treatment, (I) 75.3 and (II) 64.3. The YCW was water-treated in a methane fermentation tank at 35 deg.C. COD removal rate was 0.198 l/g DOD, and 66.5% with 13.9 kg COD/m3/day and CH4 was 0.246 l/g COD.
(JP2932921-B2)      Aerobic fermentation of organic waste is effected in a fermentation tank having a fixed bottom plate. Gas contg. O2 is alternately subjected to ventilation where the gas is ventilated from the bottom plate to the top and ventilation where gas contg. oxygen is ventilated form the top to the bottom plate on which the organic waste is accumulated.    The bottom plate (2) of the fermentation tank (1) pref. has perforated holes. A ventilation chamber (3) is positioned below the bottom plate (2). At the suction side (4a) of an air supply pump (4), is connected an air suction duct having an automatic valve (V4). The discharge side (4b) of the air supply pump (4) is connected with the ventilation chamber (3) of the fermentation tank (1) through a duct having an automatic valve (V2), and connected with a deodorising device (5) through a duct having an automatic valve (V3).    USE/ADVANTAGE -   Used to aerobically ferment organic waste e.g. a faeces of livestock, sludge, kitchen waste, etc. By repeating the upward and downward ventilation alternately, or wet conditions may be prevented efficiently.
(JP2756907-B2)      Yeast, partic. Torula or Saccharo yeast, esp. cultured in sulphite pulp waste liquor, extract compsn. having aperitive and immunostimulant activities and contg. 5'-nucleotides, partic. 1-5% each of 5'-inosinic acid and 5'-guanylic acid, free amino acids, partic. at concns. of 12-40%, beta-glucan, partic. at concns. of 1-25%, and mannan, partic. at concns. of 1-25%, prepd. by autolysis, partic. at 45-65 deg.C and pH 5.5-8.5, heating to inactivate intracellular enzymes, partic. at 80-120 deg.C, successively followed by action of cell wall degrading enzyme, 5'-phosphodiesterase and 5'-adenylic acid deaminase to enrich the essential components and used for feed, partic. at concns. of 0.1-20 wt.% in the feed.    Yeast including Torula and Saccharo spp are starting materials. Yeasts (e.g. Saccharomyces cerevisiae IFO 1954, 0309, IAM 4274, Candida utilis IFO 0619, Torulopsis sterata IFO 1953, Hansenula anomala IFO 1150) are cultured in sulphite pulp waste liquor and suspended at concns. of 10-15% to cause autolysis at 45-65 deg.C and pH 5.5-8.5 for 10-20 hrs. The autolysed mixt. is heated to 80-120, pref. 90-100 deg.C to inactivate the intracellular enzyme and mixed with 0.3-3% of cell wall degrading enzyme (e.g. glucanase and mannase) and incubated for 1-5 hrs. The incubated mixt. is heated at 90 deg.C, centrifuged to give a supernatant and added to feeds at concns. of 0.1-20, pref. 0.2-5%.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   Animal feed including fish and fowls. Feeds contg. 0.1-20 wt.% of the yeast extract. Improved aperitive and immunostimulant activities.    In an example, artificial milk for piglet was mixed with the supernatant or commercial feed additives at a concn. of 0.2% and gave 10 piglets for 14 days. The ratio of consumed feed for control gp., the supernatant, commercial yeast extract and grape juice was 100, 117-119, 101 and 103, respectively.
(JP7255462-A)      Prodn. of microorganisms that are resistant to organic solvents comprises subjecting a parent strain to mutagenesis and selectively culturing the mutants in the presence of an organic solvent. Also claimed are: (1) an organic-solvent-resistant microorganism obtainable by the above method; and (2) a method for biological desulphurisation of organic S cpds. using the microorganism of (1).    USE -    The microorganisms can be used, e.g., to desulphurise petroleum fractions under microaerobic conditions (i.e. at O2concns. below the explosion limit) in the presence of organic solvents, thus avoiding the need for large vols. of water.    (US5804435-A)      Prodn. of microorganisms that are resistant to organic solvents comprises subjecting a parent strain to mutagenesis and selectively culturing the mutants in the presence of an organic solvent. Also claimed are: (1) an organic-solvent-resistant microorganism obtainable by the above method; and (2) a method for biological desulphurisation of organic S cpds. using the microorganism of (1).    USE -    The microorganisms can be used, e.g., to desulphurise petroleum fractions under microaerobic conditions (i.e. at O2concns. below the explosion limit) in the presence of organic solvents, thus avoiding the need for large vols. of water.
(EP673902-A1)      Agent for treating bio-waste comprises a combination of organic gel former(s) and lime.    USE -   The agent is useful for treating domestic organic waste.    ADVANTAGE -   The agent inhibits the growth of micro-organisms, such as moulds, yeasts and bacteria, by binding moisture in the waste and thus greatly reduces odours before the waste is collected. The effect is temporary and does not affect decomposition in large composting plants.    (EP673902-B1)      Agent for treating bio-waste comprises a combination of organic gel former(s) and lime.    USE -   The agent is useful for treating domestic organic waste.    ADVANTAGE -   The agent inhibits the growth of micro-organisms, such as moulds, yeasts and bacteria, by binding moisture in the waste and thus greatly reduces odours before the waste is collected. The effect is temporary and does not affect decomposition in large composting plants.
(JP8508516-W)      Methane is converted to ethylene and/or ethane by successive and repeated passage of methane- and oxygen-contg. gas over: 1) a catalyst capable of promoting the oxidative conversion; and 2) an adsorbent or absorbent for the ethylene and/or ethane produced which is held at a lower temperature than the catalyst and which will release the retained gas(es) on heating. Also claimed is the use of this process to produce ethylene and/or ethane from methane.    ADVANTAGE -   Process allows high conversion of methane with high yield of the required (but more reactive) 2C products.    (EP701544-B1)      Methane is converted to ethylene and/or ethane by successive and repeated passage of methane- and oxygen-contg. gas over: 1) a catalyst capable of promoting the oxidative conversion; and 2) an adsorbent or absorbent for the ethylene and/or ethane produced which is held at a lower temperature than the catalyst and which will release the retained gas(es) on heating. Also claimed is the use of this process to produce ethylene and/or ethane from methane.    ADVANTAGE -   Process allows high conversion of methane with high yield of the required (but more reactive) 2C products.
(JP2652114-B2)      Sludge or other organic waste is mixed with high temp. wood burned ash so that the temp. of the mixt. is kept at 40-80 deg. C; immediately after adjustments of moisture content and deodorisation, the mixt. is packed in bags having breathability and deposited for a comparatively short time for natura fermentation.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   Used to accelerate fermentation of organic sludge. The natural fermentation of organic sludge can be accelerated without the use of fermentation machines or fermentation bath. Furthermore, no aeration is necessary in fermentation.    As the organic sludge, sewage sludge is used. As the high-temp. burned wood ash, burned pulp ash produced in paper making factories is used.
(DE4404782-A1)      Water-soluble surfactant mixts. produced by any of the following methods are new:    (a) partial hydrolysis of microbial biomass with alkaline earth metal hydroxide, sepn. of insolubles, and reaction with fatty acid chloride or fat;     (b) partial hydrolysis of microbial biomass with NH4OH followed by reaction with fatty acid chloride or fat;    (c) partial hydrolysis of microbial biomass with alkali metal hydroxide followed by reaction with fat and propylene oxide, each in an alkaline medium.    Also claimed are surfactant mixts. as above where the prod. of (a) or (b) is further reacted with propylene oxide.    USE -   The prods. are useful as foaming agents, detergents or emulsifiers.    ADVANTAGE -   The surfactants are made from waste materials, e.g. baker's or brewer's yeast or activated sludge, and have good water-solubility and biodegradability.
(FR2715931-A1)      Conversion of n-paraffins to isoparaffins in a C4 hydrocarbon feed or a C5 and/or C6 hydrocarbon feed comprises passing the feed through at least one reactor contg. a fixed bed of a catalyst comprising 0.1-0.25 wt.% Pt-group metal and 2-10 wt.% Cl on a refractory inorganic oxide support, in which isomerisation is effected at 100-200 deg.C, 7-60 bar and 0.5-12 LHSV.    The isomerisation rate (IR), or a parameter directly related to the IR, is monitored by analysing the reactor effluents, pref. continuously. When the IR has decreased by 10-30%, an upstream portion of the catalyst, corresp. to 1/3-2/3 of the total catalyst wt., is replaced by fresh or regenerated catalyst, after which the feed supply is resumed. Also claimed is an isoparaffin-enriched prod. obtained by a process as above.    Advantage - Catalyst consumption is reduced while maintaining a maximum IR.    (US5763732-A)      Conversion of n-paraffins to isoparaffins in a C4 hydrocarbon feed or a C5 and/or C6 hydrocarbon feed comprises passing the feed through at least one reactor contg. a fixed bed of a catalyst comprising 0.1-0.25 wt.% Pt-group metal and 2-10 wt.% Cl on a refractory inorganic oxide support, in which isomerisation is effected at 100-200 deg.C, 7-60 bar and 0.5-12 LHSV.    The isomerisation rate (IR), or a parameter directly related to the IR, is monitored by analysing the reactor effluents, pref. continuously. When the IR has decreased by 10-30%, an upstream portion of the catalyst, corresp. to 1/3-2/3 of the total catalyst wt., is replaced by fresh or regenerated catalyst, after which the feed supply is resumed. Also claimed is an isoparaffin-enriched prod. obtained by a process as above.    Advantage - Catalyst consumption is reduced while maintaining a maximum IR.
(WO9521228-A1)      Bioremediation of hydrocarbon-contaminated soils with indigenous microorganisms is improved by application of a hydrocarbon (I) soln. of a surfactant (II) comprising: (a) a mixt. of a sorbitan ester (III) of a 7-22C monocarboxylic acid and a polyoxyalkylene adduct (IV) of (III) (6-50 polyoxyalkylene units); and/or (b) (8-18C) alkyl mono- or di-glycosides.    ADVANTAGE -   The method effectively stimulates the growth and activity of naturally occurring, hydrocarbon-assimilating microflora, rendering the hydrocarbon (esp. petroleum) contaminant in the soil more accessible to the organisms.    (EP741769-A1)      Bioremediation of hydrocarbon-contaminated soils with indigenous microorganisms is improved by application of a hydrocarbon (I) soln. of a surfactant (II) comprising: (a) a mixt. of a sorbitan ester (III) of a 7-22C monocarboxylic acid and a polyoxyalkylene adduct (IV) of (III) (6-50 polyoxyalkylene units); and/or (b) (8-18C) alkyl mono- or di-glycosides.    ADVANTAGE -   The method effectively stimulates the growth and activity of naturally occurring, hydrocarbon-assimilating microflora, rendering the hydrocarbon (esp. petroleum) contaminant in the soil more accessible to the organisms.    (JP9511437-W)      Bioremediation of hydrocarbon-contaminated soils with indigenous microorganisms is improved by application of a hydrocarbon (I) soln. of a surfactant (II) comprising: (a) a mixt. of a sorbitan ester (III) of a 7-22C monocarboxylic acid and a polyoxyalkylene adduct (IV) of (III) (6-50 polyoxyalkylene units); and/or (b) (8-18C) alkyl mono- or di-glycosides.    ADVANTAGE -   The method effectively stimulates the growth and activity of naturally occurring, hydrocarbon-assimilating microflora, rendering the hydrocarbon (esp. petroleum) contaminant in the soil more accessible to the organisms.
(US5702499-A)      A batch process for the conversion of organic solid waste material by liquid thermophilic aerobic digestion comprises comminuting a batch of the organic solid waste material, adjusting the moisture content to at least 90% pts.wt. water, mixing with a thermophilic aerobic micro-organism, adjusting the pH of the mixt. to 5.5-7.5, supplying heat and O2 to effect thermophilic aerobic digestion and monitoring the mixt. during digestion to detect when the mixt. has stabilised. The pH level, the phosphate content, the sulphate content and the C/N ratio of the mixt. are monitored and th process is terminated when the stabilisation is detected and the stabilised mixt. is dried.    USE -   The process is esp. useful for the treatment of fruit and vegetable components, grass clippings and other succulent materials and fibre from th pulp and paper industry. The process produces fertiliser or animal feed.    ADVANTAGE -   The process substantially reduces the time required for digestion, compared with prior art processes, by interrupting the digestion process prior to the redn. of cellulose and lignin in the material being processed.
(US5750393-A)      A process for preparing biomass to improve the kinetics of solid-state oxidative biotransformations of the type in which a solid substrate is shredded, mixed with an inoculum contg. microorganisms used for the biotransformation, and if necessary moistened, possibly with liq. substrates, comprises: (a) a shredding stage including a pulverisation stage to produce a solid substrate in pulverised form; (b) a mixing stage at ambient temp; and (c) agglomeration of the biomass obtd. into small granules During stage (b) or (c) or between the two stages, the biomass is satd. with air or O2.    USE -   The biomass is useful for biodegrading and biotransforming natural polymers such as lignin, celluloses etc. into high added value metabolites and are also useful in industry. The technique can be used to prepare organic acids, alcohols, polysaccharides, biopolymers and enzymes to stabilise fruit juices and wines. The biotransformations are also of interest in the medical field (for prepn. of antibiotics, antitumour and antiviral agents and enzymes for medical applications), environmental protection (for prepn. of enzymes for the detoxification of pesticides and toxic and noxious wastes, organic substances for the removal of heavy metals from effluent), and in agriculture (for the prodn. of biological pesticides, biofertilisers and humic acids).    ADVANTAGE -   The method of prepn. of biomass eliminates and/or drastically reduces the technical problems of prior art such as poor, uneven aeration of biomass, fluctuation of the temp during biomass oxidn., unsuitability of the system to use mycelial microorganisms, lack of protection of enzymes/microorganisms from external agents and limited use of the capacity of the bioreactors. The kinetics of the solid state bioreactions are improved and optimal development of mycelial microorganisms is permitted. The process enables the full potential of the biotechnology to be exploited economically.
(WO9519330-A1)      To turn over composting material, it is distributed by tipping and delivering to an ejection surface below the ejection point. The height of the ejection point over the surface is adjusted to keep the dropping distance within a max. level.    Also claimed is an assembly with a bridge conveyor belt (5) to give a lateral movement to the material. A moving trolley moves along the bridge (3), with a take-up and delivery unit with a reversible conveyor belt (11) with height adjustment. A chopping roller (12) is at the conveyor belt (11) in a swing mounting on a cross beam (13) with a variable length. A scraper at the trolley swings at the bridge conveyor belt (5) when the material is being turned over.    ADVANTAGE -   The operation chops and turns over the material to give a good mixing action, without material compression as it is being turned.    (EP739328-B1)      To turn over composting material, it is distributed by tipping and delivering to an ejection surface below the ejection point. The height of the ejection point over the surface is adjusted to keep the dropping distance within a max. level.    Also claimed is an assembly with a bridge conveyor belt (5) to give a lateral movement to the material. A moving trolley moves along the bridge (3), with a take-up and delivery unit with a reversible conveyor belt (11) with height adjustment. A chopping roller (12) is at the conveyor belt (11) in a swing mounting on a cross beam (13) with a variable length. A scraper at the trolley swings at the bridge conveyor belt (5) when the material is being turned over.    ADVANTAGE -   The operation chops and turns over the material to give a good mixing action, without material compression as it is being turned.
(CN1103392-A)      Method comprises fermenting, while deodorising, organic waste by using a fermenting device which contains a fermenter (provided with a heater and a stirrer) to form pellets and drying the pellets to form a fertiliser.    Typically, the device (1) comprises a fermenter (4) which has a material input port (2) and a disposal output port (3) at the upper and lower parts, respectively, fermentation stirring vanes (6) driven by a motor (5) and a heating element (7) and an insulator (8) on the outer periphery.    ADVANTAGE -   The method offers clean working environments and reduces energy loss.
(DE4445702-C2)      Process for incineration of sewage sludge comprises (a) dewatering the sludge by mixing with a predetermined amt. of absorptive cellulose fibre material (I) until the content of dry matter is at least 55%; (b) mixing with another material (II) to utilise the energy content of the mixt., so that the mixed prod. has a calorific value of at least 11000 kJ/kg; and (c) incineration at a temp. of a least 800 C.    USE -   The coarse and fine ash obtd. is used as fertiliser or for spreading on agricultural and/or forestry land for growing raw materials used in the process or green parkland (claimed). The mixed prod. can be used as solid fuel for commercial heating systems.    ADVANTAGE -   The process is simple, does not necessitate the use of costly filter presses and can be carried out with conventional heating systems.
(JP2865541-B2)      Combustible collection comprises removing magnetic metal from wastes; cracking waste; sorting out combustible material; and compressing material.    ADVANTAGE -   Solid fuel can be formed from collected combustible material.
(JP7232327-A)      Appts. comprises a trough (3) having an injection hole (1) at its front end and discharge hole (21) at its back end, helical ribbon without a shaft or spiral (4) without a shaft, driving appts. (5) to rotate the helical ribbon ro spiral and hot air generator (6) to send hot air to the trough.    USE -   To reduce the vol. of bulky waste plastics, e.g. polystyrene foam, influenced by the static electricity easily by heating.    ADVANTAGE -   Capable of reducing the vol. of waste plastics continuously and also disinfecting dirty waste plastics.    PREFERRED APPARATUS - The vol. reduction appts. comprises the trough having the injection hole at its front end and discharge hole at its back end, screw (7) with a shaft placed in the trough, driving appts. to rotate the screw and hot air generator to send hot air to the trough.    (EP662379-B1)      Waste plastic is collected as separated by crushing it, reducing the vol. of any expanded polystyrene in it by heating it at a predetermined temp. then finely dividing it, separating the finely divided waste in liquid utilisation differences in specific gravity, and collecting the separated fractions. Also claimed is appts. for collecting waste plastic as separated including a device (2) for crushing it, a device (3) for heating it to reduce the vol. of expanded polystyrene, a device (4) for finely dividing it, and separating-collecting device (6) for separating the finely divided plastic in liquid utilising specific gravity differences.    USE -   Process and appts. are suitable for the collection and separation of waste plastic separated from municipal waste, the polyolefin fractions being suitable for conversion to fuel oil.    ADVANTAGE -   The problem of handling bulky expanded polystyrene is eliminated. Any polyvinyl chloride fraction can be removed so that it does not contaminate the conversion appts. or impair the safety of its operation.
(WO9532278-A1)      A process for biodegrading polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) contaminants comprises contacting a mixed bacteria culture comprised of Achromobacter (AB) sp. and Mycobacterium (MB) sp. with a material contg. PAH contaminants in the presence of N and P contg. nutrients and oxygen, H2O2 or both, the ratio of AB sp. to MB sp. on a biomass basis being 10:1 to 1:10, the ratio of elemental N to P in the nutrients being 5:1 to 15:1. Also claimed is a method for in situ bioremediation of soil which has been contaminated with PAHs comprising introducing into the contaminated soil an inoculum comprised of a mixed bacteria culture of AB sp. and MB sp. which have been acclimated to PAHs by contacting a growing mixed culture of the bacteria with PAHs along with a nutrient system contg. a N source and a P source for sustaining growth of the bacteria, the ratio of AB sp. to MB sp. being 10:1 to 1:10 on a biomass basis, the ratio of elemental N to P in the nutrient system being 5:1 to 15:1.    USE -   The method can be used for the bioremediation of soil, groundwater and waste effluents contg. PAHs.    ADVANTAGE -   The mixed cultures of AB sp. and MB sp. achieve a synergistic effect, whereby they achieve higher rates of biodegradation of PAHs than would be anticipated based on their individual capacities for metabolising such cpds. The PAH contaminants are completely mineralised by the mixed bacteria culture yielding harmless prods.
(DE4343569-C2)      A base material for plant compost comprises inertised chaff, esp. of wheat, rye, barley, oats and corn, flax waste, legume shells and/or cocoa husks.    ADVANTAGE -   The inertised cereal grain chaff etc. can be used directly after inertisation as a plant soil base without the necessity for fiberisation as is required with wood residues such as wood chips and bark. The material is used as a replacement for peat and therefore serves to protect the environment.
(US5457031-A)      A composter has a spherical body which can be rolled and has a sealable loading/unloading opening, an internal aeration tube perforated along its length and open to the exterior at its ends, and an additive tube sealed at one end and perforated at the opposite end. When the composter is rolled to a first position the additive remains in the tube closed end, and when to a second position the additive moves to the perforated end to leak out. The additive may be liquid or granular, and there may be a second aeration tube perpendicualr to the first. The body is e.g. of optionally recycled polyethylene and has a closure of the same material or fibreglass-reinforced polypropylene, ABS or PVC.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   For composting garden or domestic waste. Operates efficiently and can be rolled for mixing and easy transport.
(US5942022-A)      A composting plant consists of a sealed compartment with an inlet zone and a feeder to advance the waste from a receiving and pre-processing plant through an airtight sluice, a process zone and a discharger with a second sluice. The process zone contains a perforated tube ventilation system (26) linked to a fresh air intake with oxygen and temperature control. The plant also has a heat exchange system for extracting heat generated from the process air and condensing the water from it to dry the compost. The waste material is fed through the process zone by a driven texturing agitator (14) suspended in a travelling trolley above the zone. The agitator, comprising a rotary drum with a drive motor inside it, has a series of spikes in one or more spirals to life the waste material as it rotates. The process temp. in the plant is kept at 55-62C and the waste is composted in 5-25 days.    USE -   The appts. is used for the composting of household waste, organic sludge, wood chippings, straw and farmyard manure.    ADVANTAGE -   The appts. makes use of heat generated during composting process.
(JP3156894-B2)      In waste treatment, organic waste is supplied into a vertical hollow treatment barrel in which a cooling jacket is placed above a heating jacket, and a feed screw is placed between the jackets.    ADVANTAGE -   Waste can be heated and cooled efficiently.
(JP2961293-B2)      Appts. used comprises a sepn. tank(1) to separate the mixt. of plastics to low specific wt. plastics and high specific wt. plastics, injection passage(2) connected to the bottom of sepn. tank, slurry controlling tank(4) to form the slurry of crushed plastic products and pump(6) to send the slurry of crushed plastic products from the slurry controlling tank to the injection passage.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   Recovers only plastics suitable for producing oil from waste plastics. Polystyrene foam does not float and stay at the injection passage to separate low specific wt. plastics suitable for producing oil and high specific wt. plastics, e.g. PVC resin, unsuitable for producing oil accurately.
(DE4404393-A1)       Treatment of sewage sludge (esp. excess sewage sludge) comprises injecting O2 and simultaneously adding a surfactant (esp. biodegradable) in an amt. sufficient to reduce the solids content of the sludge by 50% by lysis. Both the O2and the surfactant are uniformly dispersed throughout the sludge. Also claimed are: (1) appts. for carrying out the above process; and (2) use of an intermediate and/or end prod. of the above process as a fertiliser, animal feed or the like or as a starting material for or component of such a prod.    ADVANTAGE -   The solids content is reduced substantially in a short time by lysis of microbial cells.    (EP659695-B1)       Treatment of sewage sludge (esp. excess sewage sludge) comprises injecting O2 and simultaneously adding a surfactant (esp. biodegradable) in an amt. sufficient to reduce the solids content of the sludge by 50% by lysis. Both the O2and the surfactant are uniformly dispersed throughout the sludge. Also claimed are: (1) appts. for carrying out the above process; and (2) use of an intermediate and/or end prod. of the above process as a fertiliser, animal feed or the like or as a starting material for or component of such a prod.    ADVANTAGE -   The solids content is reduced substantially in a short time by lysis of microbial cells.
(JP7171547-A)      An assembly for the disposal of organic wastes incorporates: (a) a mechanical shredder-mill (2); (b) a pre-fermenter (4) with mixer paddles (22); (c) a pump (3) linked to the shredder-mill (2) and a pre-fermenter (4); (d) a fermenter (5) with heater (42) and mixer paddles (30) joined to the pre-fermenter (4) and pump (3); (e) a cyclone (35) which draws fermented material from the fermenter (5) by means of a suction inlet (36). (f) a discharge unit (6) linked to the fermenter (5); and (f) a de-odorant assembly (52) linked to the shredder-mill, pre-fermenter (4), fermenter (5) and discharge unit (6).    USE -   The arrangement provides for the disposal of organic residues such as domestic rubbish, clear sludge and animal wastes.    ADVANTAGE -   The process provides a means by which organic residues may be disposed of in a continual process, making use of the heat resulting from the process, and preventing the release of unpleasant smells.    (JP2908223-B2)      An assembly for the disposal of organic wastes incorporates: (a) a mechanical shredder-mill (2); (b) a pre-fermenter (4) with mixer paddles (22); (c) a pump (3) linked to the shredder-mill (2) and a pre-fermenter (4); (d) a fermenter (5) with heater (42) and mixer paddles (30) joined to the pre-fermenter (4) and pump (3); (e) a cyclone (35) which draws fermented material from the fermenter (5) by means of a suction inlet (36). (f) a discharge unit (6) linked to the fermenter (5); and (f) a de-odorant assembly (52) linked to the shredder-mill, pre-fermenter (4), fermenter (5) and discharge unit (6).    USE -   The arrangement provides for the disposal of organic residues such as domestic rubbish, clear sludge and animal wastes.    ADVANTAGE -   The process provides a means by which organic residues may be disposed of in a continual process, making use of the heat resulting from the process, and preventing the release of unpleasant smells.
(EP671222-A2)      The sieve assembly, for compost, has a dosing unit as a vertical filling shaft (6,6a) leading downwards with an angled continuous drag conveyor (7) fitted with bars or ribs (7a). The passage gap (6b) is between the end of the drag conveyor and the neighbouring filing shaft wall (6a). The recirculating mesh belt (8) is below the drag conveyor (7,7a), at a horizontal gap (H) from it, together with its drive (10), deflection (9,11) and tensioning (12) rollers. A beating/vibrating system is directly below the mesh belt area (8a), with eccentric beaters (14) on a powered rod (13). Two removal conveyors (15,16) are below the mesh belt (8a) and beating unit (13,14) to collect (15) the material falling through the belt (8a) and carry it off (16) outwards to the side at right angles.    ADVANTAGE -   The assembly turns over the compost material and removes sieved compost at suitable intervals.    (EP671222-B1)      The sieve assembly, for compost, has a dosing unit as a vertical filling shaft (6,6a) leading downwards with an angled continuous drag conveyor (7) fitted with bars or ribs (7a). The passage gap (6b) is between the end of the drag conveyor and the neighbouring filing shaft wall (6a). The recirculating mesh belt (8) is below the drag conveyor (7,7a), at a horizontal gap (H) from it, together with its drive (10), deflection (9,11) and tensioning (12) rollers. A beating/vibrating system is directly below the mesh belt area (8a), with eccentric beaters (14) on a powered rod (13). Two removal conveyors (15,16) are below the mesh belt (8a) and beating unit (13,14) to collect (15) the material falling through the belt (8a) and carry it off (16) outwards to the side at right angles.    ADVANTAGE -   The assembly turns over the compost material and removes sieved compost at suitable intervals.
(DE4343156-A1)      In oil pollution removal from liq., esp. water, by addn. of bacteria which convert oil particles into environmentally compatible prods., the novelty is that the contaminated liq. is subjected to high energy ultrasound to achieve fine colloidal dispersion of the oil.    An oil layer (12) on a water surface (11) is treated by: (a) skimming off the oil-water mixt.; (b) passing, through the mixt., a pipe section contg. electro-acoustic transducers for ultrasound emission; and (c) adding oil-consuming bacteria into or behind the pipe section.    ADVANTAGE -   The process provides more thorough mixing of the oil and bacteria, and thus increases the effectiveness of bacterial degradation of the oil.
(DE4342514-C2)      Recyclable or biodegradable extrudates based on waste paper comprise: (i) 10-60 wt.% waste paper fibres; (ii) 10-70% proteins and/or polysaccharides, esp. animal and/or plant proteins and/or starches or starch carriers and/or glucans and mannans; and/or (iii) 10-20 wt.% pref. plastifiable biotechnical residual material such as fermenter effluent, separation residues, brewers yeast, and extraction grist with a dry solids content of ca. 20 wt.%; (iv) 0-10 wt.% hydrophobic agents such as Na- or K water glass; (v) 0-10 wt.% mineral earths such as marl or air-slaked lime; (vi) 0-0.03 wt.% spore preparations of microorganisms with antagonistic activity; and (vii) 0-10 wt.% (in)organic fertilizers.    USE -   The extrudate is useful in the building industry e.g. as insulating material; in agriculture and horticulture e.g. as a mulch, for encapsulating seeds, a controlled release fertilizer, for release of spores of microorganisms with antifungal, antibacterial or antiviral activity, etc.; and in packaging applications.    ADVANTAGE -   The combination of ingredients gives a compsn. that can be extruded using conventional plastics processing equipment. The extrudate has a controllable degradation time so that mulches etc. can be made which retain their structure for longer periods than previous materials of this type.
(JP3112141-B2)      The apparatus (1) for disposing organic wastes (2) includes (1) No. 1 and No.2 disposing tanks (3,4) for storing and fermenting organic wastes, (2) openings (3a,4a) for allowing the organic wastes to move from the No.1 tank to No.2 tank and then to the No.3 tank. (3) agitating members (17) for agitating the organic wastes (2) within the tanks, and (4) No.2 and No.2 shifters (26,27) for shifting the wastes from the No.1 tank through the No.2 tank to the No.3 tank.    ADVANTAGE -   Prevents the wastes from being piled up higher than the opening (3a), lowering the height of the inlet (6), ensuring the installation of larger size No.1 tank.
(JP2765459-B2)      The apparatus (1) for disposing organic wastes (2) includes (1). Wastes disposing tanks (6.7.8 etc.) for storing and fermenting organic wastes (2). (2) Agitating members (19) for agitating the wastes within the tanks, (3) An inlet (9) in the No. 1 tank (6), through which the wastes enter the No. 1 tank, (4) As outlet (14) in the No. 3 tank (8), through which the wastes are discharged from the tank (8), and (5) As adjusting member (37) for adjusting the height of the opening of the outlet (14) in the No.3 tank (8) through the repositioning of the adjusting member (37).    ADVANTAGE -   Capable of changing the time of storing the wastes within the last tank, changing the extent of drying the wastes to be discharged through the outlet.
(WO9515788-A1)      Process for decontaminating organic harmful materials contg. in solid or liq. substrates by means of microorganism comprises treating the substrate one or more times with a biocomplex comprising (a) 3-26 wt.% pancreatic degraded protein, (b) 3-20 wt.% P2O5-contg. water soluble phosphate and (c) a balance of desugared molasses soln. with less than 50 g/l. sugar (invert sugar) and more than 30 g/l. nitrogen as well as vitamins and trace elements.    USE -   For decontamination of soils and waste waters, removal of oil contamination from the surface of water, etc., using microorganisms available on site.    ADVANTAGE -   Allows decontamination of easily and difficultly-degradable organic substances such as short chain alkanes, phenols, aromatic cpds., polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, nitrophenols, chlorophenols, polychlorinated biphenyls, polychlorinated dibenzodioxines and -furnaces etc., using locally available microorganism, by adding a nutrient medium low in carbon so that the microorganisms utilise the organic material as carbon source.
(DE4341467-C2)      Biological purification of effluent gas and outlet air is effected by passing the gas mixt. through a biofilter and a subsequent adsorption stage, and recycling the harmful substances separated in the adsorption stage to the biofilter.    ADVANTAGE -   The process gives effective removal of a wide range of impurities and odours from effluent gases and air, has a high loading flexibility, has a low energy input requirement due to low loss of press. over the filter bed, and does not give rise to emissions of bacteria, actinomycetes and fungi or their spores or viruses.
(EP657406-A1)      Propylene-propane mixts. are sepd. by selective absorption, using water as absorbent.    Pref. absorption is at between -5 and 90 (10-50) deg.C and up to 5 MPa (4-5 MPa), using deionised water contg. a phase transfer agent, esp. a trimethyl tetradecylammonium salt or dodecyl sulphonate.    ADVANTAGE -   The process is simple and cheap. The hydrocarbons are obtd. in purity suitable for most uses, and loss by chemical conversion is avoided.
(JP2979281-B2)      Raw water is treated by fixed bed bioreactor packed with saddle and/or ring shape porous ceramics packing, and malodour from bioreactor is removed by deodorising tower packed saddle and/or ring shape porous ceramics packing.    ADVANTAGE -   COD material and malodour are removed efficiently and stably.
(EP643026-A2)      The composting assembly is in a variety of suitable geometric shapes made of steel, reinforced concrete, polymer concrete, plastics, wood and the like, to give columns, retention basins, ventilation, passages for the movement of micro life and/or earth bacteria. The composting systems are opened and closed by mechanical drives together with electronic process control. The base grid can be mechanically raised or lowered for fermentation during winter or using solar energy in summer, and can be lowered below the level of the retention basis to increase the rotating process.    USE -   The assembly is for composting organic waste material from homes and gardens.    ADVANTAGE -   The system can be used in large, medium or small installations, to convert organic waste into compost effectively and cheaply.
(DE4340612-C1)      The appts. to turn over compost material, as a mobile assembly with a rotating roller across the direction of travel to pick up and turn the material on the ground, has a swing shield behind the roller in the direction of travel. The shield is aligned at an acute angle to the ground, to scoop up the compost and pass it to the roller to be turned over. The shield covers the length of the roller.    ADVANTAGE -   The compost material is wholly picked up from the ground and turned over for through composting.    (EP655428-B1)      The appts. to turn over piles of compost, has a rotating roller across the direction of travel along the pile, with a swing shield over the roller length and behind it. The shield gathers up the compost material from the floor to be passed to the roller.    ADVANTAGE -   The system ensures that all the compost material is gathered up to be turned over.
(US5441658-A)      Mixed gas cryogenic refrigerant consists of 30-50 mol% N2; upto 20 mol% CH4; at least 30 mol% C3H8; and the balance C2H6 or C2H4. Pref. total amt. of N2 + CH4 is 40-55%.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   In a throttle refrigerator having an oil-lubricated compressor, providing high pressure upto 30 atmos. at 80-100 K (claimed). Greater efficiency and temp. stability. Increased value of refrigeration per unit vol. of gas entering compressor.    (JP10507211-W)      Mixed gas cryogenic refrigerants, useful in throttle refrigerators having oil-lubricated compressors which provide high pressures up to 30 atmos at 80-100 deg K comprise: (a) 30-50 mole% N2; (b) less than 20 mole% methane; (c) more than 30 mole% propane; (d) a balance of ethane or ethylene.    USE -   The refrigerant is useful in refrigerators using Joule-Thompson (JT) cycles.    ADVANTAGE -   Improved temp stability and efficiency are obtd, compared to prior refrigerants.
(WO9514792-A1)      Treatment comprises: (a) establishing a contained area of soil with horizontal and vertical boundaries; (b) pulverising the soil in the contained area to a uniform depth, to distribute the contaminant evenly and to break up large particles; (c) covering the soil with a layer of an anhydrous carbonate salt; (d) applying a layer of dilute ammonium hydroxide to the soil, to dissolve the carbonate salt in the ammonium hydroxide and form a soln.; (e) leaving the soln. to sit on the soil for a period sufficient to let the soln. mix with the soil; (f) applying a layer of dilute organic acid to the soil mixed with the soln.; and (g) drying the soil by evapn. for a period sufficient to let the soil harden.    USE -   Used to treat soil contaminated by petroleum prods..    ADVANTAGE -   The process is carried out on site and renders the soil harmless to plant life within hours of treatment.
(EP691287-A1)      Appts. for spreading compost covering material comprises a supply container (3) at the cover (1) of the waste composting silo or pile. The base (13) of the container (3) towards the material has sieve openings ( at least partially), and a number of perforations (17). A rotating system (4) is within the supply container (3), with 2 radial walls (7,10) to rotate round the longitudinal axis (5) of the container (3). The material is shifted and distributed over the composting waste as the system (4) rotates.    USE -   The system is useful for spreading covering material, e.g. lime, over compositing material from domestic waste.    ADVANTAGE -   The spreading action of the appts. is simple.    (EP691287-B1)      Appts. for spreading compost covering material comprises a supply container (3) at the cover (1) of the waste composting silo or pile. The base (13) of the container (3) towards the material has sieve openings ( at least partially), and a number of perforations (17). A rotating system (4) is within the supply container (3), with 2 radial walls (7,10) to rotate round the longitudinal axis (5) of the container (3). The material is shifted and distributed over the composting waste as the system (4) rotates.    USE -   The system is useful for spreading covering material, e.g. lime, over compositing material from domestic waste.    ADVANTAGE -   The spreading action of the appts. is simple.
(RU2050342-C1)      The plant consists of a leaching tank for the initial product, a unit for removing dissolved salts from the leached mixture, and connecting pipes. It has a system for forming a pulp in the leaching tank from the initial product and the leaching liquid, and the resulting mixture is cleaned in a sorption ion-exchange apparatus with constant circulation of the sorbent, while the outlet for the purified product is at the bottom of the leaching tank. The ion-exchange apparatus is in the form of a plate column, equipped with a pulsator for the mixture being cleaned. The pipes taking the mixture from the leaching tank to the column and the sorbent from the column are connected to the bottom of the column, while the pipes for returning the cleaned mixture to the leaching tank and the sorbent to the column are located at the top.    ADVANTAGE -   Improved distribution of sorbent and higher efficiency.
(JP7233098-A)      A method of alkylating isoparaffins and olefins is claimed. It comprises contacting a feedstock comprising isoparaffins and olefins with a solid superacid catalyst contg. HPA (heteropolyacid components) or POA (polyoxoanion components) under conditions to maintain the feedstock in liq. phase. The conditions include a temp. of -40 to 200 deg.C and a pressure of 1-200 atmos.    Also claimed is a method of alkylating paraffins and olefins.    USE -   High octane components for motor fuel and other valuable products are obtd.    ADVANTAGE -   The method minimises the processing problems of existing commercial methods using sulphuric acid or hydrofluoric acid. The solid catalyst used is superior to previously used catalysts in terms of environment safety and safety concerns, and, when spent, it can be regenerated in the same reactor or reprocessed off-site. The reaction can be carried out at room temp. to provide good yields of alkylated products.
(DE4338220-C2)      Regulating the respiratory activity of micro-organisms in a fermentation process, esp. an activated sludge process for the purificn. of effluent, comprises rendering part of the nutrient supply (i.e. substrate or effluent contents) inaccessible to the micro-organisms, or degrading part of the supply, by adding substances adsorptive and/or absorptive w.r.t. the nutrient supply, e.g. fine-particle silica derivs., hydrophobic and/or hydrophilic activated carbon, and metal salts.    USE -   The method is useful for removing carbon -, nitrogen- or phosphorus-contg. cpds. from industrial or domestic effluent.    ADVANTAGE -   The accumulation of rapidly growing micro-organisms which convert most C, N and P cpds. into carbon dioxide, ammonium- and phosphate ions rather than incorporating them into their cell structures, is avoided.    (EP1112969-A1)      Regulating the respiratory activity of micro-organisms in a fermentation process, esp. an activated sludge process for the purificn. of effluent, comprises rendering part of the nutrient supply (i.e. substrate or effluent contents) inaccessible to the micro-organisms, or degrading part of the supply, by adding substances adsorptive and/or absorptive w.r.t. the nutrient supply, e.g. fine-particle silica derivs., hydrophobic and/or hydrophilic activated carbon, and metal salts.    USE -   The method is useful for removing carbon -, nitrogen- or phosphorus-contg. cpds. from industrial or domestic effluent.    ADVANTAGE -   The accumulation of rapidly growing micro-organisms which convert most C, N and P cpds. into carbon dioxide, ammonium- and phosphate ions rather than incorporating them into their cell structures, is avoided.
(US5859070-A)      Catalytic process for reaction of a primary reagent, or contaminants in it, comprises (a) preconditioning the catalyst by previous use, as in (c), for the desired reaction; (b) passivating, or maintaining in the preconditioned state, until needed for the reaction; and (c) contacting a carrier gas contg. the reagent in a very minor proportion, together with any other reagents needed for the reaction, with the catalyst under conditions favourable to the reaction.    USE -   The process is of partic. value for prodn. of small quantities of material., esp. radio-labelled prods. and intermediates, most of all those with short life; or to remove contaminants, often themselves radio-labelled. Examples of prodn. of C-11 isotopic prods. are MeOH, CO, or methane from isotopic CO2; HCN from methane; phosgene from CO, or HCHO, Mel and methyl triflate from MeOH; O2-15 from bombardment of N2 can be freed from N oxides and ozone, and the isotopic oxygen converted to O-isotopic water.    ADVANTAGE -   In contrast to conventional small scale chemical reaction techniques, which often require separate stages and work-ups of prods., and a skilled radio-chemist, catalytic reactions are simple and can be automated. Although in catalytic chemistry there is usually a delay between start of contact of reagents and catalyst and appearance of desired prod., which would be unacceptable with limited reagent, this is overcome by preconditioning the catalyst with unlabelled reagents. The conditioned catalyst can be dispensed conveniently as a ready to use kit, contg. a cartridge of suitable size to fit the reactor, and which has been preconditioned and passivated, then sealed under an inert atmosphere to keep in the passive state.
(EP723582-A1)      Biodegradable organic waste is mixed with a liquid to form a suspension having a dry solids content of 40% v/v. The suspension is placed in a pit lined with an impermeable liner (1) and sealed by a cover (3) to form a gas-tight bioreactor cell. Heat is applied from an external source to raise the temp. above ambient so that a microbial decomposition reaction can commence and continue at an enhanced rate. Gas is drawn off and, on completion of decomposition, the material is removed from the cell.    USE -   The process can be used to treat domestic, commercial and non-hazardous industrial refuse, e.g. containing garden cuttings, paper, food, wood, etc. Manures, agricultural slurries or sewage may be added to accelerate the decomposition.    ADVANTAGE -   The decomposition is accelerated by the provision of additional energy. This enables evolution of biogas to be managed more effectively, esp. at start-up.
(WO9511739-A1)      Gas feed-stream contg. H2S and methane is sepd. by treating with a membrane having a H2S/CH4 selectivity of at least 35 at 500psi feed pressure, to produce a H2S depleted residue and a H2S enriched permeate and subjecting the permeate and/or residue to further non-membrane-based treatment(s).    USE -   Process can be used to treat sour natural gas to give pipeline-specification levels of H2S, CO2 and water (as claimed) with minimal loss of methane.
(JP2708087-B2)      Treatment comprises (a) directing crushed kitchen waste to an anaerobic tank having a support made of glass fibre in which high-temp. microorganisms are adhered and (b) keeping the kitchen waste at 54-56 deg. C. The kitchen waste is crushed into a slurry in a disposer. The support made of the glass fibre is held by a frame made of a resin to form a hollow and cylindrical peripheral wall made of the glass fibre. The anaerobic tank is used for acid fermentation and methane fermentation.    ADVANTAGE -   The kitchen waste having a high solid concn. is directly treated in a small anaerobic tank, reducing its heat insulating cost and facility cost compared to conventional treatment requiring diluted water. Treatment by a one-phase system readily adjusts the pH compared to the two-phase system and allows the use of one anaerobic tank. The disposer requires no expensive crusher. The use of cheap glass fibre for the support reduces costs. The method has a high organic matter removing rate and generates a reduced amt. of residue. Generated methane gas is recovered for use as energy.
(US5464539-A)      H2 gas is microbially produced from a sludge compost contg. H2-generating anaerobic bacteria and deactivated CH4-producing bacterial prepd. by forcing aeration into a sewage treatment sludge.    Process comprises: (a) contacting a liq. waste contg. organic matter with the compost in an anaerobic atmos. by adding 0.01-20% (w/v) compost to waste; and (b) collecting the generated H2 gas.    USE -   For treating waste water at higher efficiency for a longer period of time.    (JP2657763-B2)      Prodn. of hydrogen comprises treatment of organic waste water with microorganisms in sludge compost by anaerobic culture.    Pref. waste water contg. organic cpds. is treated with sludge compost at initial concns. of 0.01-20 (pref. 0.5-5) w/v% at 40-70 O C with stirring, if necessary.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   Used for waste water treatment and prodn. of hydrogen. Methods prevents pollution.    In an example, 1 l of an artificial waste water contg. 1.5 g KH2PO4, 4.2 g Na2HPO4.H2O, 0.5 g NH4Cl, 0.18 g MgC12.6H2O, 5 g yeast extract and 10 g cellulose powder treated with sludge compost in an amt. of 1 w/v% and cultured at 60 O C in N2 atmos. for 96 hrs. 73% of cellulose was 1.89 mole H2 per mole cellulose.
(EP648525-B1)       Biofiltration media comprise peat nodules formed from high density fuel peat. The nodules have bulk density, at 50% moisture content, at least 400 kg/m3and at least 50 wt.% of the nodules have an average size of 10-20 mm.    Prodn. of the biofiltration medium is also claimed.    USE -   Biofiltration of waste gases removes odour in the most environment friendly way known. It uses microorganisms to convert odorous gases to odourless cpds. As the action takes place in a moisture layer, the medium used is a major factor.
(DE4409487-C2)      Fermentation of biogenic organic raw waste is carried out using several drainage water-discharging bioreactors which are sequentially charged with the waste, the charged waste in each bioreactor being subjected to an initial aerobic phase, then an anaerobic running-in phase with acidic drainage water formation and finally a methane prodn. phase with basic drainage water formation. The process involves the steps of: (a) withdrawing the acidic drainage water from a bioreactor undergoing the anaerobic running-in phase and transferring it for percolation in a bioreactor undergoing the methane prodn. phase; (b) withdrawing the basic drainage water from a bioreactor undergoing the methane prodn. phase and transferring it for percolation in a bioreactor undergoing the anaerobic running-in phase; and opt. (c) delivering water to at least the bioreactor undergoing the anaerobic running-in phase. Also claimed are (i) a similar process in which bio-gas is metered from the bioreactor undergoing the methane prodn. phase in accordance with the methane and/or oxygen content in the bio-gas; and (ii) a plant for carrying out the process.    USE -   Fermentation of e.g. biological waste, garden and park waste, clarification and faecal waste, market waste, food processing waste and the residual garbage left after valuable material sepn.    ADVANTAGE -   The methane prodn. process and yield are improved.
(WO9603569-A1)      Methane is recovered from a coal bed by: (a) recovering an exhaust gas (I) containing carbon dioxide from a hydrocarbon-fuelled internal combustion engine; (b) continuously injecting (I) into injection well(s) extending into the bed; and (c) continuously recovering produced gas including methane, from production well(s) spaced apart from the injection well(s).    USE -   The method is suitable for use when a pattern of wells drilled into a coal bed has been used to produce water and associated gas from the bed; after initial water removal, a portion of the wells can be converted for gas injection.    ADVANTAGE -   An inexpensive source of carbon dioxide is used to displace the methane; as the injected gas is hot (3500 F or above), adsorption of carbon dioxide in the critical area around the injection well is minimised.
(JP2655298-B2)      Appts. to ferment and dry organic waste in one fermentation tank continuously, comprises a fermentation tank (1) having stirring blades (8) supported by a horizontal rotation shaft (4) rotatably, panel heater (20) at a given region of its outer surface and jacket (25) placed at the other region of its outer surface to form a high temp. fluid passage to heat the fermentation tank. During the fermentation and drying the fermentation tank is heated by using both direct heating by the panel heater and indirect heating by high temp. fluid or selecting one from both.    ADVANTAGE -   To increase an amt. of fermentation treatment of organic waste at one batch in the fermentation tank.
(GB2282828-B)      A method for extracting peat fibre comprising the steps of:- preparing milled peat; blending the milled peat to provide a feedstock milled peat; breaking up the blended feedstock milled peat; and screening the broken up milled peat to extract peat fibres having an average length of from 2 cm to 10 cm and at least 60% of the fibres having an average dimension greater than 5 mm.
(EP647482-B1)       Solid waste is compressed by the application of high pressure into blocks giving a volume reduction of 9:1. The blocks are stackable in a sanitary landfill. Leachate can percolate through the waste and biogas can escape. Recyclable material is separated from the waste prior to compression. The waste is compressed in an appts. which has V-shaped hopper which guides the waste into screw feeders (HSP1) of underlying compression units. These include two hydraulic presses, one horizontal (HHP3) and one vertical (VHP2). The pressure exerted is regulated to produce blocks of dimensions 1.0 x 0.5 x 0.5 m and density 1400 kg/m3. The generation of biogas can be regulated with the use of a suitable catalyst. The processed products are also claimed, suitable for transfer by truck, rail or vessel.    USE -   The process is used to treat domestic refuse in urban or rural areas, giving storage for future use if technology advances permit it, and the controlled generation of biogas (both claimed) allowing better exploitation.    ADVANTAGE -   The blocks are of optimum size for handling. Transportation costs are reduced and landfill operations are optimised with control over biogas generation and collection.
(DE4333504-C2)      In O2 recovery from life support systems by (a) concn. of CO2, (b) conversion of CO2 to CH4 and (c) electrolysis of H2O, a low temp. catalyst (I) is used in stage (b), esp. at 20-200C. Zeolite is used as adsorbent in stage (a).    (I) is a RuOx/TiO2 catalyst. Stage (a) involves gas permeation, pref. using a liquid membrane; or adsorption/desorption with solid amine, activated charcoal or hydrophobic zeolite as adsorbent, which can be regenerated with steam/purging gas or vacuum. The cell used in stage (c) may have a KOH electrolyte (mobile or immobile), electrolyte contg. H3PO4 or solid electrolyte; or proton-exchange membrane (PEM); or may be a molten carbonate cell (MCC).    USE -   The process is esp. useful for space travel applications.    ADVANTAGE -   (I) gives a higher CH4 yield than Ru/Al2O3 catalysts, e.g. in the Sabatier process at temps. below 100C, since equilibrium is established at lower temp.; requires less energy for the heat-up phase; has better O2 compatibility, i.e. there are fewer problems with the air in the CO2 from stage (a); and requires less appts..
(JP9503800-W)      Refrigerant comprises pentafluoroethane; tetrafluoroethane; and isobutane and/or propane.    ADVANTAGE -   All components are non-toxic and ozone-friendly. The compsn. is compatible with conventional lubricants.    (US5688432-A)      Refrigerant comprises pentafluoroethane; tetrafluoroethane; and isobutane and/or propane.    ADVANTAGE -   All components are non-toxic and ozone-friendly. The compsn. is compatible with conventional lubricants.
(EP669903-B1)      Organic waste treatment appts. includes a treatment chamber assembly in which a compost bed may be formed. Organic waste may be added to the compost bed and ventilation is provided to promote aerobic digestion of the compost bed. Drainage is provided to prevent waste material in the treatment chamber from becoming anaerobic. Provision is made for access and removal of compost formed in the treatment chamber assembly.    USE -   The appts. is used for disposal and treatment of waste organic material.    ADVANTAGE -   The invention provides an efficient and reliable treatment of organic waste without a requirement for high energy input and without environment health problems.
(EP668847-A1)      Purificn. plant for the removal of organics and nutrients from sewage has a process tank divided into aerobic and anaerobic chambers by a partition plate. Mixers are located in each chamber and aeration equipment is installed in the aerobic chamber. Recirculation between the aerobic and anaerobic chambers is carried out by turbulence in a hydraulic boundary layer in 1 openings in the partition plate.    USE -   The plant is used for purificn. of sewage sludge.    ADVANTAGE -   The process according to the invention requires one process tank only and pumps are not necessary. A high degree of recirculation is attained and capital and operational costs are small.
(WO9511737-A1)      A membrane process for treating a gas stream (I) comprising hydrogen sulphide and methane and having relative humidity at least 70%, comprises (a) passing (I) across the feed side of a membrane; (b) withdrawing from the feed side a reside stream (II) having relative humidity not greater than 10%; and (c) withdrawing from the permeate side a permeate stream (III) enriched in hydrogen sulphide and water vapour compared with (I). The membrane has a selectivity for hydrogen sulphide over methane of at least 35, measured with a stream containing at least hydrogen sulphide, methane and water vapour at a feed pressure of at least 500 psi.    Relative humidity of (I) is at least 90%. (I) additionally contains CO2. (II) contains less than 500 (less than 80 or 20) ppm water vapour, and less than 20 (less than 4) ppm H2S. (II) meets pipeline specification for H2S and H2O, and opt. also for CO2. (II) may be submitted to an additional membrane separation, using a membrane as specified above, or a membrane having H2S/CH4 selectivity below 35. (II) and/or (III) may be submitted to non-membrane treatment steps.    USE -   The method is of use for removal of hydrogen sulphide, together with water vapour and/or carbon dioxide, from gas streams, esp. natural gas.    ADVANTAGE -   Membranes here used have a higher H2S/CH4 selectivity. The use of a combination of the two types of membrane is in many cases esp. advantageous.
(DE4333468-A1)      In treating biogenic residues, esp. sludge forming in biological purification of waste water, liq. manure and other microbiological and renewable biomasses as well as biogenic residual waste fractions, (a) the mass, esp. sewage sludge, is subjected to anaerobic fermentation and recovery of biogas, (b) the decomposing slime is subjected to temp.-pressure hydrolysis (TPH), and (c) after withdrawal of hydrolysis gas, disposable residue and a pptd. heavy metal fraction, the remaining hydrolysate is recycled to the anaerobic fermentation.    ADVANTAGE -   The highest possible amt. of utilisable gas is obtd., and the amt. of residue for disposal is small.    (DE4333468-C2)      In treating biogenic residues, esp. sludge forming in biological purification of waste water, liq. manure and other microbiological and renewable biomasses as well as biogenic residual waste fractions, (a) the mass, esp. sewage sludge, is subjected to anaerobic rotting and recovery of biogas, (b) the decomposing slime is subjected to temp.-pressure hydrolysis (TPH), and (c) after withdrawal of hydrolysis gas, disposable residue and a pptd. heavy metal fraction, the remaining hydrolysate is recycled to the anaerobic rotting.    ADVANTAGE -   The highest possible amt. of utilisable gas is obtd., and the amt. of residue for disposal is small.
(WO9528367-A1)      An appts. for turning compost in a tunnel pit has a vehicle, which runs on the floor at both sides of the pit, and a horizontal turnover device, which is arranged transversely to the travel direction and which extends into the pit. The novelty is that the turnover device is mounted on a support element located in the longitudinal central plane of the vehicle (5); and the support element can be withdrawn, together with the turnover device, out of the pit to above the floor (3).    ADVANTAGE -   The appts. allows turning of the compost over the entire width of the pit, can reverse freely without affecting compost turning and can be transported without hindrance by the turnover device.    (EP755368-B1)      An appts. for turning compost in a tunnel pit has a vehicle, which runs on the floor at both sides of the pit, and a horizontal turnover device, which is arranged transversely to the travel direction and which extends into the pit. The novelty is that the turnover device is mounted on a support element located in the longitudinal central plane of the vehicle (5); and the support element can be withdrawn, together with the turnover device, out of the pit to above the floor (3).    ADVANTAGE -   The appts. allows turning of the compost over the entire width of the pit, can reverse freely without affecting compost turning and can be transported without hindrance by the turnover device.
(EP647605-A1)      Treatment of discontinuously occurring biodegradable substrates, esp. bio-waste, involving fermentation in a putrefaction stage in the presence of anaerobic biomass, comprises: (a) a putrefaction stage (6) preceded by a conditioning stage (2), into which at least part of the anaerobic biomass is returned from the putrefaction stage (6); (b) a conditioning stage (2) where aerobic conditions are maintained at least intermittently and/or locally; (c) homogenisation of the substrates; and (d) the production of hydraulic equilibrium in the conditioning stage (2), between the discontinuous charging of the conditioning stage with fresh substrates and the continuous charging of the putrefaction stage (6) with conditioned substrates.    ADVANTAGE -   The process ensures stable continuous operation of the putrefaction stage in an efficient manner.    (EP647605-B1)      Process for treating biodegradable substrates produced batchwise, in particular biowastes, which, if appropriate after a pretreatment are subjected to a fermentation in a digestion stage (6) in the presence of an anaerobic biomass, a conditioning stage (2) being connected upstream of the digestion stage (6), into which conditioning stage at least a part of the anaerobic biomass is recycled from the digestion stage (6) and in which the substrates are homogenised, characterised in that (a) aerobic conditions are maintained at least at times and/or in places in the conditioning stage (2), and (b) a hydraulic balance is produced in the conditioning stage (2) between batchwise charging of the conditioning stage (2) with fresh substrate and continuous charging of the digestion stage (6) with conditioned substrate.
(JP7149670-A)      H2 energy storage process comprises converting a mixt. of H2 and CO2 into CH4 and/or MeOH in a reactor.    ADVANTAGE -   CH4 and esp. MeOH are easily stored and handled, in contrast to H2, and the energy content/unit vol. of MeOH is about twice that of liq. H2. The process also reduced CO2 emissions.
(JP3184944-B2)      A handling lift is assembled for a carbonising furnace integrated with a smoke exhaust unit.    ADVANTAGE -   The carbonising furnace can be transferred to a ground work site.
(GB2282337-B)      Anaerobic digester apparatus for the treatment of organic waste material, which apparatus comprises: a) a reception hopper into which waste material to be treated can be fed; b) a vessel within which anaerobic digestion can be carried out; c) a conduit connecting the vessel and the hopper, to enable fluid to be fed from the vessel to the hopper; d) a perforate member located within the vessel; e) a conduit connecting the reception hopper and the perforate member; f) means for advancing the waste material from the reception hopper along the perforate member; g) means by which a back pressure to the advance of material along the perforate member can be generated whereby fluid is expressed from material within the perforate member and can escape from the perforate member into the vessel; and h) an exit pipe which is connected to the perforate member, through which the treated waste material may be expelled.
(JP7163879-A)      A Ti-Cu based alloy catalyst material comprises at least one of V, Ni, Zr, Cr, Mn, Fe or Co as a partial substitute element for Ti and/or Cu in Ti100-aCua where 30a50. 0.1-20 at.% is substituted with at least one element, in which a fine Ti-Cu intermetallic cpd. of mean particle size 10nm is uniformly precipitated in an amorphous phase and/or -Ti matrix. Also claimed is a process for producing the Ti-Cu based alloy catalyst material.    USE -   Used as a catalyst material for the hydrogenation of CO.    ADVANTAGE -   Catalytic activity is increased and the mechanical properties improved by refining the size of the microcrystalline structure and stabilising the presence of Ti-Cu based alloy.    (EP645466-B1)      A Ti-Cu based alloy catalyst material comprises at least one of V, Ni, Zr, Cr, Mn, Fe or Co as a partial substitute element for Ti and/or Cu in Ti100-aCua where 30a50. 0.1-20 at.% is substituted with at least one element, in which a fine Ti-Cu intermetallic cpd. of mean particle size 10nm is uniformly precipitated in an amorphous phase and/or -Ti matrix. Also claimed is a process for producing the Ti-Cu based alloy catalyst material.    USE -   Used as a catalyst material for the hydrogenation of CO.    ADVANTAGE -   Catalytic activity is increased and the mechanical properties improved by refining the size of the microcrystalline structure and stabilising the presence of Ti-Cu based alloy.
(JP7163877-A)      A new catalyst used to treat waste gas contg. dioxin consists of a support of silica-boria-alumina double oxide or zeolite with a SiO2/Al203 mol ratio of at least 30 and catalyst metal selected from Pt, Pd, Ir or their oxide. The amt. of the catalyst metal loaded is 0.1-10 g/litre-support. The second catalyst metal selected from Au, Ag, Cu, Fe, Sb, Se, Te or Ta is also loaded in 0.01-5 g/litre-support.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   For removing dioxin from waste gas which is discharged from city garbage incinerators, steel mfg. factories, or metal refining factories. Polychlorodibenzo-para-dioxin can be removed below 10(0.1) ng/m3 at a lower temp. below 280 deg.C over a long time. Polybromodibenzo-para-dioxin, polybromobenzofuran, polychlorobiphenyl, trichloroethylene, trichloroethane, dichloromethane, chlorophenol, or methylbromide can be oxidised and decomposed.    (US5783515-A)      Catalyst (I) for treating exhaust gases contg. dioxins comprises Pt, Pd and/or Ir or their oxides on a support (II) of a SiO2/boria/alumina composite oxide or zeolite with a SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio of above 30. 0.1-10 g of the active component is supported per litre of (II). (I) is obtd. by spraying or dripping a soln. or dispersion of the active components onto a powder of (II).    USE -   Exhaust gas (III) contg. dioxins at concns. below 10 ng/m3 is contacted with (I) at 150-280C to eliminate the dioxins (claimed). Dioxins are typically polychloro or polybromo dioxins or benzofurans. PB's, chloroethanes, phenols and methanes, MeBr, etc. are also eliminated from (III). Source of (III) is waste incinerators, metal refining or steel mfr.    ADVANTAGE -   (I) has long life and reduces dioxin concn. in (III) to below 0.1 ng/m3 thus alleviating atmos. pollution. (I) also suppresses additional dioxin formation in (III) by precursors. Process can be retrofitted, gives higher removal ratios and lower running costs.
(EP658372-A2)      In a membrane module for gaseous substance removal from a gas stream, having membrane pockets of gas-permeable liq.-tight material arranged parallel to one another and to the gas steam flow direction, the novelty is that (a) each membrane pocket (11) is edge-sealed to the bottom (8) of a prefabricated support plate (1) with liq. supply and discharge openings (7), the top (16) of the support plate (1) having a series of adjacent parallel flow channels (12) for the gas stream, the channel walls being formed as spacer elements by parallel ribs (5) in a region of the top (16) of the plate (1); (b) common feed and discharge bores (6), for all the membrane pockets (11), are provided in the plate side regions adjacent the ribbed region; (c) the support plates (1) are stacked such that the membrane(s) (9) of each membrane pocket (11) are supported on the free edges (17) of the ribs (5) of an adjacent support plate (1) and such that the open tops of the flow channels (12) are covered; and (d) the feed and discharge bores (6) of the plates (1) are aligned to form channels passing completely through the stack. Pref. each membrane (9) consists of a first hydrophobic layer of micro-porous stretched PTFE foil, joined to a second hydrophilic layer which may be a polyurethane coating, a polyether-polyurethane layer on a perfluorosulphonic acid membrane.    USE -   E.g. for cleaning waste gas (or possible liqs.) using microorganisms.    ADVANTAGE -   The membrane module has a simple construction and has mass exchange properties providing increased efficiency over extended operating times.
(DE4331636-C2)      Prodn. of a storage-stable and biologically active soil improving agent from organic materials, e.g. bio and green waste and opt. also liq. components such as clarification sludge, involves press-moulding the materials and composting the mouldings by storage in compost heaps in air.    Composting is carried out in one or more cells (1-9) which are isolated from one another as regards heat and aeration; and the temp. in the cells (1-9) or heaps is regulated at a certain value by corresp. control of the air supply (11) and air withdrawal (21) during air circulation and addn. of fresh air (collection line, (10)).    ADVANTAGE -   The process provides optimally and uniformly reproducible composting and ensures good utilisation of the available space in the composting shed.
(US5443656-A)      Fibrous material degradation of toilet tissue and other cellulose prods. is increased using a compsn. contg. 0.01-1g per l cellulose, 0.02-0.4g per l. NaHCO3, and 0.02-0.4g per l citric acid, which is added to the material. Process takes place in a waste holding tank. Opt. drying agents, surfactants, deodorisers, dyes and fillers are added to the compsn.    ADVANTAGE -   Is cost effective, with enhanced cellulose activity.
(US5496490-A)      A particulate laundry detergent compsn. having significantly improved oily soil removal activity comprising, by wt.: (a) 1-50% of one or more detergent cpds. selected from the gp. consisting of anionic sulphated or sulphonated detergents and 10-18C alcohol ethylene oxide condensate nonionic detergents and mixts of it; (b) 0.1-1.0% of a lipase enzyme in an amt. effective for oily soil removal from stained fabric; (c) 0.5-10% of a soil release copolymer of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyoxyethylene terephthalate (POET) having a mol. wt. in the range of about 15,000 to 50,000 where the polyoxyethylene (POET) is of a mol. wt. in the range of about 1,000 to 10,000 and the molar ratio of PET to POET units is from 2:1 to 6:1, in an amt. effective for oily soil removal from stained fabric; and (d) 10-75% of a water soluble or water insoluble, inorganic or organic builder for the detergent cpd., the laundry detergent compsn. being capable of removing a variety of oily soils from fabric to an extent greater than the additive soil removing effects measured with comparative compsns. contg. components (a), (b) and (d) or (a), (c) and (d) respectively, each of the comparative compsns. being devoid of any combination of the lipase enzyme and the soil release copolymer.    (ZA9406446-A)      A particulate detergent laundry compsn. contains (a) 1-50 wt.% of anionic and/or nonionic detergent(s), (b) a lipase in amt. sufficient to remove fatty soil from a stained fabric, and (c) a polymer which removes soil, in amt. sufficient to remove fatty soil from a stained fabric. The compsn. may also contain zeolite A.    Washing and re-washing tissues stained with fatty soil, in an aq. soln. contg. the compsn. is claimed.    The capacity for removing dirt is better, and is greater than that of compsns. contg. components (a) and (b), or (a) and (c).
(DE4329833-A1)      To compost a mixt. of organic and non-degradable matter, esp. organic waste and rubbish, it is degraded biologically in a closed vessel with forced ventilation. It is then passed to a separator where the heavy matter sinks. The material which has not sunk, in the separator, is further degraded in a closed vessel with forced ventilation. Also claimed is an assembly with a closed vessel and a separator to separate heavy matter by sinking (4-6).    ADVANTAGE -   The method gives a process for organic matter mixed with stones, glass or ceramic fragments, to compost the organic content by biological degrading.(PHP).    (DE4329833-C2)      Composting organic material, esp. waste, includes biologically breaking down the waste under forced ventilation in a closed container. After the material is broken down it is removed from a fermentation chamber and sieved. The sieve overflow and the heavy material is passed over a separator unit. The floating material is mixed with the material that has passed through the filter. The mixt. is then fed to an intensive rolling section.    ADVANTAGE -   The process enables the foreign material to be removed easily, and is efficient and reliable.    (EP644166-B1)      To compost a mixt. of organic and non-degradable matter, esp. organic waste and rubbish, it is degraded biologically in a closed vessel with forced ventilation. It is then passed to a separator where the heavy matter sinks. The material which has not sunk, in the separator, is further degraded in a closed vessel with forced ventilation. Also claimed is an assembly with a closed vessel and a separator to separate heavy matter by sinking (4-6).    ADVANTAGE -   The method gives a process for organic matter mixed with stones, glass or ceramic fragments, to compost the organic content by biological degrading.(PHP).
(EP643987-B1)      Flue-gas desulphurisation process comprises (a) passing flue gas (12), absorbent (204) and water (52) to an absorber (202); (b) passing spent absorbent (208) to a digester (210) containing sulphur-reducing bacteria to regenerate the absorbent; and (c) returning regenerated absorbent (224) to the absorber.    Also claimed is a set of apparatus for carrying out the process.    ADVANTAGE -   Process replaces complicated and expensive equipment currently used with cheap and simple reactors.
(EP661367-A1)      For the disposal of rubbish, after biologically degradable material has been separated, it is processed at a temp. of about 1600C as a heavy rubbish fraction.    USE -   The method is for the disposal from communal and industrial sites, after the biologically degradable material has been sepd. to leave a heavy fraction contg. little biological matter but significant quantities of plastic and the like.    ADVANTAGE -   The usable material has been recovered and the remainder has a reduced bulk which requires less energy for disposal. The heated material is reduced to a molten mass with a glassy character, for disposal without problems.    (EP661367-B1)      For the disposal of rubbish, after biologically degradable material has been separated, it is processed at a temp. of about 1600C as a heavy rubbish fraction.    USE -   The method is for the disposal from communal and industrial sites, after the biologically degradable material has been sepd. to leave a heavy fraction contg. little biological matter but significant quantities of plastic and the like.    ADVANTAGE -   The usable material has been recovered and the remainder has a reduced bulk which requires less energy for disposal. The heated material is reduced to a molten mass with a glassy character, for disposal without problems.
(JP3066225-B2)      Composting of organic waste comprises controlling feed rate of air into a fermenting tank w.r.t. measured temp. in the tank or measured CO2 in an exhaust gas exhausted from the fermenting tank, so as to ferment and compost the waste effectively. The heat of the exhaust gas at 60-70 deg. C is rendered thereby obtaining warm water or warm air at 50-60 deg. C.    ADVANTAGE -   Waste is fermented and composted at a high rate, since CO2 concn. is measured to control air feed rate.
(JP3008969-B2)      Circulation water is sprinkled intermittently over the layer in which a carrier of microorganisms is filled. Ammonium nitrate and ammonium nitrite which are produced by reacting ammonia with microorganisms is cleaned.    In the bio-deodorising tower, water sprinkling is carried out as inflow ammonia amts. to the filled layer does not exceed 200g-N/m3 between the water sprinkling at one time and the next sprinkling.    Ammonia is removed by microorganisms which glows in the carrier of the filled later 2. When ammonia compsn. in the raw material gas was 200 ppm, the optimum water sprinkling frequency was about 12 times per a day.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   Ammonia smell of a sewage disposal plant is deodorised. Degeneration of bio-activity is prevented. Lowering of deodorising effect is inhibited.
(DE4330884-A1)      In utilisation of municipal or industrial sewage sludge with a high water, by briquetting, the wet sludge, from a preceding mechanical drying, is mixed with dried lignite with residual water content 10-30% and/or lignite coke, in a ratio by wt. of sludge: lignite or lignite/coke mixt. of 1:3 - 3:1 (1:2.5 - 2.5:1), followed by compression to dimensionally stable mouldings at above 50 (100-150) bars.    USE -   The moulded bodies are used as combustion aid in a power station boiler, or are pyrolysed or gasified to obtain heat or synthesis gas.    ADVANTAGE -   The dimensionally stable prod. is an additional fuel, of low heating value, for use, e.g. in power stations. Extensive drying of the sludge, and use of additives and high pressure are avoided, as is the risk of explosion and self-ignition when dealing with dry sewage sludge. Microorganisms in the sludge are killed.    (US5645614-A)      A process for the preparation of fuel briquettes from/ municipal or industrial sewage sludges comprising the steps of: (a) forming a mixture consisting essentially of (i) wet sewage sludge having a water content of 30% to 80%, and (ii) dried brown coal having a water content of 10% to 30%, either alone or together with brown coal coke, wherein the ratio of (i) to (ii) is from 1:3 to 3:1; and (b) compacting the mixture, at a compaction pressure above 50 bar, to form a dimensionally stable fuel briquette.
(FR2709760-A1)      Fermentation of bio waste comprises (a) sorting, mixing and grinding; (b) applying heated fluid; and (c) passing to the fermenter. Step (b) enables fermentation to start before step(c). Also claimed is an assembly with a liquid feed channel between a basin (3) and a heat exchanger (4). After the heat exchanger (4), a distributor connection leads to the feed shaft. The basin (3) is divided by an intermediate wall. Hydraulic piston pumps with automatic suction are at the feed and take-off units.    ADVANTAGE -   The method reduces the time before fermentation begins which ensures fermentation stability. The fermentation process is improved and energy consumption at the fermenter is reduced.    (BE1010519-A5)      Fermentation of bio waste comprises (a) sorting, mixing and grinding; (b) applying heated fluid; and (c) passing to the fermenter. Step (b) enables fermentation to start before step(c). Also claimed is an assembly with a liquid feed channel between a basin (3) and a heat exchanger (4). After the heat exchanger (4), a distributor connection leads to the feed shaft. The basin (3) is divided by an intermediate wall. Hydraulic piston pumps with automatic suction are at the feed and take-off units.    ADVANTAGE -   The method reduces the time before fermentation begins which ensures fermentation stability. The fermentation process is improved and energy consumption at the fermenter is reduced.
(US5840220-A)      Cpd. comprises (A) silicone oil by 70-99.9 wt.%; (B) thermoplastic organic resin hollow fine powder by 0.1-10 wt.%; and (C) thickener by 0-20 wt.%.    Prepn. of the cpd. comprises heating a compsn. composed of: (A) silicone oil by 70-99.9 wt.%; (D) thermoplastic organic resin fine powder expanding irreversibly by heat so as to become hollow granule by 0.1-10 wt.%; and (C) thickener by 0-20 wt.% and then heating the compsn. so as that the component (D) expands to form plastic balloon.    ADVANTAGE -   The cpd. has superior vibration isolating characteristics.    In an example, 86 pts. wt. of dimethylpolysiloxane, whose both terminals are blocked with trimethylsiloxy gp., having a viscosity of 5000 centistokes and 4 pts. wt. of vinylidenechloride/acrylonitrile copolymer fine powder contg. isobutane as expander and having particle dia. of 16-32 microns were heated at 145 deg. C and agitated together for 10 min., so that aimed cpd. was obtd..
(EP641754-B1)      The fitting, to link the walls of a compost silo together in a multi-part assembly, is a slitted and rigid and one-piece clamping sleeve (6). The sleeve (6) is fitted over the two joint flanges (4) of adjacent wall sections (2) to give a shaped fit grip on them by rotation or sliding on the sleeve longitudinal axis, so that both flanges (4) are clamped together.    ADVANTAGE -   The fitting allows the compost silo walls to be erected and dismantled as required, with a long life and a simple action.
(JP7068239-A)      A rapid fermentation appts. has a main vessel body with an inlet and outlet. Organic material to be treated is stirred and agitated within the vessel which is heated to a controlled fermentation temp.. A blower unit discharges gas from the main body of the vessel and air is admitted.    The main body (1) of the appts. is formed by connecting a first container (T1) with a second container (T2). Hot water circulates through a rotary shaft (3) which carries a paddle assembly (4). The appts. has inlets (5) and lower outlets (6). Motors (7) drive the appts. A blower (11) is fixed to the main body (1) to discharge gas from the main body (1) and take air through openings (29) into the main body (1). A sheath heater is provided on the exterior surface of each of the containers (T1) and (T2) and a control system maintains the surface temp. of the main body at 60-80C.. A hot water jacket in the form of a U-shape is also provided for the containers (T1, T2).    USE -   For the rapid fermentation of organic industrial waste.    ADVANTAGE -   The appts. provides a rapid and efficient process for the fermentation of industrial waste. Running costs are low and fermented manure can be produced every day.    (US5439823-A)      Organic industrial waste is fermented by putting it into a container (T1) via inlet (5), in which a main shaft (3) rotates a paddle (4) for a period, stopping, and reversing, while a blower (11) injects (II) air through an opening (2g). A sheath heater and hot water jacket heats the charge. After a period of e.g. 24 hrs., fermented prod. is collected, while second container (T2) can be charged. A controller is provided to obtain a specific treatment temp..    ADVANTAGE -   Fermented manure is produced rapidly.
(DE4329458-C2)       Processing scrap plastics or mixts. thereof for raw material recycling comprises removing metals and coarse impurities, melting in an extruder and heating at more than 4000 C over the whole length of the extruder, transferring to a stirred reactor and continuing the decompsn. at above 4000C opt. with injection of reactive gas. Gaseous cleavage prods. and harmful prods. are removed via degassing devices on the extruder and/or the stirred reactor, and appropriate additives are added directly to the extruder and/or the stirred reactor when processing halogen-contg. material and/or where there is an increased tendency to charring.    USE -   Used for recycling raw materials from industrial or domestic plastic waste.    ADVANTAGE -   Provides a simple, economical process for the decompsn. of plastic waste to give useful raw materials. The process is very flexible and adaptable, so that changes in the compsn. of the feedstock are readily countered by changing process temp. residence time or quantities.
(EP713423-A1)      The composite material (A) for extracting target biological cpds. (I) from aq. soln. comprises one component (C7) with binding affinity for proteins and peptides and a second (C2) with binding affinity for nucleic acids. The material can be formed as a body through which the soln. is passed to remove (I) and bind them in such a way that passage of further soln. will not cause them to be released.    Also claimed is a filter for removing (I) comprising a filter matrix of 2 components (the second being a water-soluble high mol.wt. substance) with a charge-carrier component distributed throughout it to provide numerous charged sites to which (I) bind.    USE -   (A), formed as one or more filter beds, is used to remove (I), including those with radioactive or fluorescent labels from particular laboratory waste solns..    ADVANTAGE -   (A) has a relatively long working life and is easily disposed of when spent.    (JP9509920-W)      The composite material (A) for extracting target biological cpds. (I) from aq. soln. comprises one component (C7) with binding affinity for proteins and peptides and a second (C2) with binding affinity for nucleic acids. The material can be formed as a body through which the soln. is passed to remove (I) and bind them in such a way that passage of further soln. will not cause them to be released.    Also claimed is a filter for removing (I) comprising a filter matrix of 2 components (the second being a water-soluble high mol.wt. substance) with a charge-carrier component distributed throughout it to provide numerous charged sites to which (I) bind.    USE -   (A), formed as one or more filter beds, is used to remove (I), including those with radioactive or fluorescent labels from particular laboratory waste solns..    ADVANTAGE -   (A) has a relatively long working life and is easily disposed of when spent.
(JP2531439-B2)      Composite catalyst is composed of noble metal layer or transition metal layer and metal oxide layer mutually laminated and equipped with several trenches.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   The catalyst amount is controlled precisely in this composite catalyst.    In an example Si wafer substrate is coated Pt and Fe oxide mutually laminated (film thickness of each layer is 10 nm) and equipped with trenches by photolithography method to form composite catalyst to convert CO2 to CO, CH4 and C.
(WO9505158-A1)       Aerosol foam compsns. comprise water, a water-soluble surfactant (I), a water-soluble polymer (II) and a propellant gas. (I) is an alkyl glycoside of formula R1 O(C6 H10 O5 )x H, where R1= 8-22C alkyl and x = 1-10.    USE -   When provided with appropriate ingredients, the compsns. may be used for cosmetic, pharmaceutical or cleaning purposes, e.g. as hair styling or conditioning mousses, shaving foams, shampoos, or foams for delivery of topical medicaments (e.g. antiseptics).    ADVANTAGE -   The compsns. generate rich, creamy, stable foams.
(WO9512745-A1)      Recovering methane from a solid carbonaceous subterranean formation having both prodn. and injection wells in fluid communication with the formation, comprises (a) passing a gaseous fluid contg. at least 60 vol.% nitrogen and at least 15 vol.% oxygen through a membrane separator to produce an oxygen-depleted effluent; (b) injecting the oxygen-depleted effluent into the formation through the injection well; (c) recovering a fluid contg. methane through the production well; and (d) operating the prodn. well so that a pressure in the prodn. well at a wellbore location adjacent to the formation is less than an initial reservoir pressure of the formation.    USE -   Recovering coal-bed methane from a solid carbonaceous formation.    ADVANTAGE -   Coal-bed methane is recovered by membrane sepn. of oxygen enriched nitrogen, withdrawing the oxygen depleted effluent and injecting it into the formation, and recovering methane.    (ZA9408599-A)      Method for recovering methane from a solid carbonaceous subterranean formation having both prodn. and injection wells in fluid communication with the formation, comprises: (a) passing a gaseous fluid contg. at least 60 vol.% nitrogen and at least 15 vol.% oxygen through a membrane separator to produce an oxygen-depleted effluent; (b) injecting the oxygen-depleted effluent into the formation through the injection well; (c) recovering a fluid contg. methane through the production well; and (d) operating the prodn. well so that a pressure in the prodn. well at a wellbore location adjacent to the formation is less than an initial reservoir pressure of the formation.    USE -   Recovering coalbed methane from a solid carbonaceous formation.    ADVANTAGE -   Coalbed methane is recovered by membrane sepn. of oxygen enriched nitrogen, withdrawing the oxygen depleted effluent and injecting it into the formation, and recovering methane.
(NL9301341-A)      Waste to be treated is hydrolysed and the hydrolysed material stream is screened into relatively coarse organic material which is processed separately, or discharged and a slurry stream from which dissolved organic material is converted into biogas by anaerobic fermentation. The slurry stream has the sand fraction between 2 and 1000 removed from it.    USE -   For the biological treatment of waste material.    ADVANTAGE -   The invention is advantageous in providing sand removal and not relying on the use of unpleasant chemicals. Also the waste is separated into fractions which each have different concentrations of heavy metals and micro-contaminants and may immediately comply with standards for reuse.    (DE4495582-T)      Waste to be treated is hydrolysed and the hydrolysed material stream is screened into relatively coarse organic material which is processed separately, or discharged and a slurry stream from which dissolved organic material is converted into biogas by anaerobic fermentation. The slurry stream has the sand fraction between 2 and 1000 removed from it.    USE -   For the biological treatment of waste material.    ADVANTAGE -   The invention is advantageous in providing sand removal and not relying on the use of unpleasant chemicals. Also the waste is separated into fractions which each have different concentrations of heavy metals and micro-contaminants and may immediately comply with standards for reuse.
(JP95116449-B2)      Crystalline silicate, such as zeolite, used for converting low grade hydrocarbon of ethane, ethylene, propane, or propylene to liq. hydrocarbon is prepd. by mixing (A) a silicon cpd., (B) a cpd. of alkali metal and/or alkali earth metal, (C) a cpd. of at least one of the IV, V, VIB or VIII gp. metals, and (D) water to obtain a mixt. The mixt. in the presence of a catalyst is maintained at a temp. for prodn. of a crystalline silicate and for a period therefor to obtain a crystalline silicate.    The catalyst consists of an oxide cpd. of formula aM2/mO.bZ2/mO.SiO2 where M is at least one of H, alkali metal, or alkali earth metal. Z is at least one of the III, IV, V, VIB, or VIII gp. metal. m is atomic value of M. n is atomic value of Z, a is up to 0.1. b is up to 0.1.
(JP2530994-B2)      Material comprising chitin, an organic substance contg. a chitinous substance or chitosan and zeolite and/or shell, and Streptomyces cyanogenus or Streptomyces olivaceus.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   The material is useful for controlling and preventing soil borne disease. Streptomyces cyanogenus or Streptomyces olivaceus may be fixed stably in soil for a long period to prevent soil borne diseases. The material is cheap, has no odours due to fermentation and prevents environmental pollution caused by conventionally used chemical agents etc..    In an example, Streptomyces cyanogenus, and Streptomyces olivaceus were grown with a mixt. of chitin, chitosan (0.5% or higher), organic substance contg. chitinous substance (shell etc., 5-80%) and zeolite (99.5-20%). The prepd. seed bacterium (10%) was mixed with zeolite (25%) and chitin, chitosan, crab shell, shellfish shell (50-0%) to prepare 2 types of material for controlling soil borne disease.
(JP2673641-B2)      Also claimed is the associated appts. including raw material throwing chamber, prod. discharging chamber with an outlet supported rotating drums driven by a motor and a through chamber supported by both chambers which has I-shaped pipes to take in and send out the heated air and which has deodorant near the exhaust pipe. The hot air is brought into the rotating drum with a burner and a fan placed at the discharging chamber which is exhausted by a blower through I-shaped pipes and the deodorant while raw materials are sent forward with screw blades in the rotating drums.    ADVANTAGE -   Effectively promotes drying and fermentation of raw materials for compost without the need of a separate deodorising device.
(DE4326677-A1)      A membrane module (10) removes gaseous materials from a flow of gas, esp. the cleaning of gas with the help of micro-organisms. The novelty is that the bag (12) is made of an endless flexible material which is arranged folded together or wrapped, together with a flexible supporting spacing structure (14) within a housing and largely fills the inner space within the housing. Further that the winding or stack of membrane material is fixed within the housing, and that the membrane bag (12) is charged with a liquid reactant through a single inlet (18) and discharges through a single outlet (20). Further that the flow of gas flows through the housing and supporting structure arranged between the individual membrane bag layers.    The module assembly removes gaseous substances from a gas flow esp. gas effluent discharge.    The module is of simple construction and therefore cheap to fabricate by virtue of the fact that there is a single wound bag in lieu of a multitude of single bags. Further claimed is that arrangement provides defined operating conditions over a long period of time.
(EP659696-B1)      Method for reducing pollutant and ammonium contents, also chemical oxygen demand (COD) and 5-day biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5), of waste water from composting comprises:(a) sepg. solids and sludge from the water;(b) allowing the water to trickle down, at least once, under gravity, through a heap of biomass( from composting) of particle size &gt;25mm; (c) collecting the water at the bottom of the heap and freeing it of solids and sludge; and (d) discharging part of the water; (e) passing the off- air from the composting operation upwards through the heap to provide conditions for aerobic fermentation and to keep the water at 25-35C; (f) purifying the gas in a biofertiliser before discharging it into the environment.    USE -   The method is used to reduce contamination of waste water to levels allowing its further treatment in activated sludge systems.    ADVANTAGE -   The method is economical with low consumption of energy and auxiliary chemicals; all materials used are derived from the composting operation and, when spent, can be recycled to it. Because of the relatively large particle size in the heap, the pressure drop of the air stream is low, obviating the need for high compression. The heap retains its shape well, does not become contaminated as quickly as layers of other materials, and the system requires only weekly inspection of the pressure drop and biofilter.
(US5728447-A)      A process and assembly converts vegetable matter such as ripe cereals into solid pressings (1) for fuel in the presence of changing harvesting conditions, where the nature of the solid mass is independent of the degree of moisture in the raw material. The novelty is that the raw material is compressed (1) using a corrugated (3, 4) structure (6). Further that the outer surface of the pressing (1), determined by extrusion, is more firmly compressed than the central cross-section region, in which longer fibred mass components lie in slightly corrugated array (21), conferring elasticity on the pressings (1).    USE -   The process and assembly convert vegetable matter such as ripe cereals into solid pressings for fuel.    ADVANTAGE -   The quality esp. elasticity of the resulting pressings is largely independent of the moisture content of the raw vegetable matter, and changing harvesting conditions.    (RU2114738-C1)      A process and assembly converts vegetable matter such as ripe cereals into solid pressings (1) for fuel in the presence of changing harvesting conditions, where the nature of the solid mass is independent of the degree of moisture in the raw material. The novelty is that the raw material is compressed (1) using a corrugated (3, 4) structure (6). Further that the outer surface of the pressing (1), determined by extrusion, is more firmly compressed than the central cross-section region, in which longer fibred mass components lie in slightly corrugated array (21), conferring elasticity on the pressings (1).    USE -   The process and assembly convert vegetable matter such as ripe cereals into solid pressings for fuel.    ADVANTAGE -   The quality esp. elasticity of the resulting pressings is largely independent of the moisture content of the raw vegetable matter, and changing harvesting conditions.
NOVELTY - The laminate structure has anode pole, cathode pole and inter-connector. The gas collection-and-delivery section has branched gas-negotiation way to supply gas to the gas-manifold provided in the inter-connector of the laminate structure.    USE - For fuel cell applications.
(JP2500357-B2)      Methane (I) is prepd. by reaction of CO2 with H2 in the presence of a metal cpd. (II) including rare earth metal, as a catalyst. (II) are, e.g. LaNi5, LaNi4Cr or LaNi4Cu etc. The reaction is carried out at 0-600 deg.C pref. 150-400 deg.C, 1-100 (10-60) atmos. and SV = 1000-10 power 5 ml/g-cat.h, pref. 2000-20000 ml/g-cat.h.    ADVANTAGE -   (I) is obtd. in high yield (58-94%) under mild conditions, with high selectivity (95-98%) and high conversion ratio (78-90%) under high speed reaction conditions due to long activity of the catalyst.    In an example, a mixed gas of CO2 and H2(H2/CO2=4) was supplied to a reactor contg. LaNi5 (1g) (SV=3000 ml/g-cat.h). The mixt. was reacted at 300 deg.C and at 50 atmos. pressure. (I) was obtd. in 93% yield.
(DE4324932-C2)       Rendering reaction gases from the prepn. of aluminium molten salts harmless by grinding the molten salts then sieving and dissolving at approx. 100C and releasing the gases NH3 , AsH3 , HCN, CO2 , CH4 , PH3 H2 S and H2 comprises (a) cooling the gases to below 50C; (b) reacting the gases in a 1st scrubbing step with H2 SO4 , so that the NH3 is bound, and discharging the soln.; (c) reacting the remaining gases in a 2nd subsequent scrubbing step with NaOH to bound H2 S and HCN and remove as Na-salt soln.; (d) reacting the residual gases in a 3rd subsequent step with a H2 SO4 -contg. NaBrO3 soln. to convert PH3 and AsH3 to Na-phosphate and -arsenate and producing small amts. of free Br2 ; (e) reacting the Br-contg. residual gases with KOH soln. to bound the Br2 and remove it; (f) injecting the remaining gases CH4 and H2into a conventional combustion plant, e.g. power station.    ADVANTAGE -   Each individual gas is chemically converted and bound in a scrubbing soln.
(DE4324910-C2)      The following are claimed: (A) microbial removal of NO comprising: (a) contacting NO or an NO-contg. gas with microorganisms; and (b) supplying the microorganisms with a mono- or polyhydric alcohol. (B) appts. for carrying out the above process, comprising a reactor (through which NO or an NO-contg. gas is passed) which contains microorganisms (in suspension or fixed to a carrier) and a mono- or polyhydric alcohol.    USE -   The process is esp. useful for purifcn. of air, e.g. tunnel exhausts.    ADVANTAGE -   The process is easy to carry out and gives non-toxic nitrogen cpds.
(EP635465-B1)      Panel system for forming panel floors for the storage of pourable material, in particular for compost preparation, ventilation, and/or draining organic matters, and/or for the treatment of gases by means of a filter material bottom positioned at the panel floor, wherein a) in each case several bottom panels (17) to be positioned at a floor, several upper support panels (16) comprising apertures (6), and several spacers (10, 11, 13) arranged in a regular grid are provided between the bottom panels (17), and the support panels (16) to create a hollow space (18) in between, b) the bottom panels (17), the support panels (16), and the spacers (10, 11, 13) are injection moulding parts made of plastic material, c) the bottom panels (17), and/or the support panels (16) are formed with at least one expansion gap stop (19) at at least two adjacent edges with the expansion gap stop having elastic spring deflection properties and protruding from the edge line when unstressed, d) the spacers (10,11,13) are connectible with the bottom panels (17), and/or the support panels (16), and/or with each other by means of inter-engaging plug-in connections (1, 2, 3), and e) the bottom panels (17) forming the panel bottom, and the support panels (16) are arranged in an overlapping fashion in at least one direction of the surface.
(US5414188-A)      4C-hydrocarbons are sepd. from a gaseous mixt. also contg. lower hydrocarbons and H2, by (a) cooling to -60 to +32 deg F to condense part of the 4C-hydrocarbons; (b) phase sepg. mixt. produced; (c) withdrawing liq. as a 4C-hydrocarbons prod., d) withdrawing gas; and (e) further cooling until all the remaining 4C-hydrocarbons are condensed but not H2.    Process further comprises (f) subjecting condensate obtd. to another phase sepn.; (g) withdrawing liq. as 4C-hydrocarbon prod.; (h) withdrawing the vapour and expanding it isoentropically to form a mixt. of liq. and vapour; (i) subjecting this to a third phase sepn. (j) withdrawing the liq. as 4C-hydrocarbons prod.; (k) expanding part of the sepd. vapour isentropically in a second expansion engine; and (l) recovering refrigeration from vapour in the second expansion engine by indirect heat exchange with the original mixt.    USE -   In prodn. of isobutene for prep. of methyl tert. butyl ether as replacement for tetraethyl lead in gasoline.
(US5443845-A)      Composite material for promoting growth of hydrocarbon degrading microorganisms comprises (a) a core contg. water soluble microbial available nutrients; and (b) a sacrificial oleophilic, lipophilic, partially oil-soluble and biodegradable coating having a satd. fatty acid and an unsatd. fatty acid, encapsulating the core.    Nutrients comprises an NH4-cpd. as N-source, phosphate as a P-source, and a Fe-cpd. Satd. fatty acid comprises stearic- and/or palmitic acid, and the unsatd. fatty acid is oleic- and/or linoleic acid. Wt. ratio satd.:unsatd. acids is 70:30-30:70.    USE -   For bio-remediation of oil spills on water and in wetlands.    (EP809612-A1)      A coating compsn. for a bi-remediation nutrient contains (a) a satd. fatty acid and (b) an unsatd. fatty acid, in ratio of 70:30-30:70 by wt.    USE -   A compsn. encapsulated in the coating is used to treat oil spills.    ADVANTAGE -   The compsn. provides slow release of nutrients to microorganisms, e.g. bacteria, yeasts and fungi which degrade oil.    (EP809612-B1)      A coating compsn. for a bi-remediation nutrient contains (a) a satd. fatty acid and (b) an unsatd. fatty acid, in ratio of 70:30-30:70 by wt.    USE -   A compsn. encapsulated in the coating is used to treat oil spills.    ADVANTAGE -   The compsn. provides slow release of nutrients to microorganisms, e.g. bacteria, yeasts and fungi which degrade oil.
(US5695618-A)      The oxidative coupling of methane onto a Mn molecular sieve comprises (a) passing methane through a microwave plasma activation flow reaction zone onto a Mn oxide molecular sieve catalyst to produce polymer-free methane coupled prods. and (b) recovering the prods.    USE -   For oxidative coupling of methane to hydrocarbons esp. ethylene, ethane, propane, acetylene and 4-5C hydrocarbons.    ADVANTAGE -   High selectivity and good control of the coupling reaction. The catalyst has high thermal stability and resistance to coking under microwave conditions. Polymer-free prods. are obtd.
(DE4345195-C2)      Continuous decomposition of chlorinated hydrocarbons (A) in a gas comprise passing this through a biofilter in which methylotrophic bacterial have been deposited on a carrier, with the help of air contg. EtOH or other C2 cpds.    USE -   The method is used to treat waste gas or air contaminated by (A) that are only poorly absorbed by active charcoal, specifically vinyl chloride.    ADVANTAGE -    The bacteria convert vinyl chloride to Hcl and CO2and do not require adaptation to chlorinated hydrocarbons.
(FR2707280-A1)      A thickened aq. sulphamic acid compsn. contains, as thickener, a succino-glycan-type hetero-polysaccharide stabilised by potassium sulphamate.    Pref., the hetero-polysaccharide is obtained from fermentation of a carbohydrate by a strain of microorganisms belonging to the Agrobacterium genus, esp,. the Agrobacterium radiobacter, Agrobacterium rhizogenes and Agrobacterium tumefaciens species.    USE -   For treatment of surface covered with mineral and/or organic deposits (claimed), e.g., for descaling sanitary ware.    ADVANTAGE -   The thickener has long term effectiveness.    (US5431839-A)      Cleaning/stripping compsn. comprises (a) a contaminant-removing amt. of sulphamic acid; (b) a succinoglycan heteropolysaccharide as thickener; and (c) potassium sulphamate as stabiliser.    (b) Is obtd. via microbial fermentation of carbohydrate using a strain of Agrobacterium radiobacter, A. rhizogenes or A. tumefaciens. Compsn. has pH 0.5-1.5 and viscosity 200-6000 mPa.sec.    ADVANTAGE -   Can be formulated as a thickened aq. compsn., gel or sprayable liq..    (EP633221-B1)      Thickened aq. sulphamic acid compsn., characterised in that it contains a hydrocolloid of succinoglycan type as thickening agent, the thickening agent being stabilised therein by an effective amt. of potassium sulphamate.    (JP2599695-B2)      A thickened aq. sulphamic acid compsn. contains, as thickener, a succino-glycan-type hetero-polysaccharide stabilised by potassium sulphamate.    Pref., the hetero-polysaccharide is obtained from fermentation of a carbohydrate by a strain of microorganisms belonging to the Agrobacterium genus, esp,. the Agrobacterium radiobacter, Agrobacterium rhizogenes and Agrobacterium tumefaciens species.    USE -   For treatment of surface covered with mineral and/or organic deposits (claimed), e.g., for descaling sanitary ware.    ADVANTAGE -   The thickener has long term effectiveness.
(DE4321349-C2)      The continuous process for the elimination of hydrocarbons in a gas recirculates the laden washing soln. in a washer (1) and a bioreactor to degrade the hazardous matter. Ethanol and ether as used as the washing soln..    USE -   The process is for the processing of active carbon soiled with hydrocarbons in cleaning exhaust gas or air, and for processing exhaust gas laden with monochlorethene.    ADVANTAGE -   The technique removes the light volatile hydrocarbons from the stripping, or generally from all exhaust gases, with immediate degrading of the hazardous matter.
(EP630957-B1)      A furnace, for reduced pressure pyrolytic destruction of organic industrial waste, has a sealed tubular chamber (1), a pump assembly (4) connected to the chamber via a condenser (2), a waste charging system (11,18) and a heating system (15).    The novelty is that the heating system consists of bare electrical resistances (15) extending rectilinearly parallel to the main axis within the chamber (1), the resistances (15) being heated to at least 1200C by passage of current supplied by an external source (19).    ADVANTAGE -   The furnace produces practically complete pyrolysis of the waste at reduced pressure and at a mean chamber temp. of 400-600C, any molecules which are stable at this temp. being dissociated by the radiation emitted by the resistances.
(FR2706482-A1)      In a horizontal fermenter with a stirrer fixed on a shaft, the shaft is divided and supported, the centre-bearings (2,3) of the divided shaft being located in a bearing shaft (4) of the fermenter, the bearing shaft (4) being perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the stirrer shaft.    USE -   Esp. in large capacity fermenters, pref. for fermenting bio-waste such as biogenic organic kitchen and garden waste.    ADVANTAGE -   The centre-bearings are accessible and opt. replaceable in the operating state of the fermenter.    (BE1010222-A3)      In a horizontal fermenter with a stirrer fixed on a shaft, the shaft is divided and supported, the centre-bearings (2,3) of the divided shaft being located in a bearing shaft (4) of the fermenter, the bearing shaft (4) being perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the stirrer shaft.    USE -   Esp. in large capacity fermenters, pref. for fermenting bio-waste such as biogenic organic kitchen and garden waste.    ADVANTAGE -   The centre-bearings are accessible and opt. replaceable in the operating state of the fermenter.
(JP9503427-W)      Liquids, esp. contg. dispersed particles, are treated by an improved acoustical method which gives good sepn. of particles from the liq. The method involves the application of a resonant ultrasonic sound field in a multilayer composite resonator. The layers of the resonator are acoustically-coupled, and comprise at least a piezoelectric transducer to produce the sound field, the liq. suspension contained in a vessel, and an acoustic mirror. The acoustic velocity amplitude varies across the layers of the resonator, and is much higher in the liq. than in the other two layers. The transducer is electrically-driven at a frequency (fe) within the range of the half-value bandwidths of a high overtone quasi-harmonic composite resonance frequency (fcj). Pref. the driving frequency is chosen to be outside of the half-value bandwidths of the electrically-excitable Eigen-frequencies (fri) of the transducer. The derivation of upper and lower limit-valves of the driving frequency (fe) is claimed: the limits are given by fe = fTi (fTi/10i), where FTi is the electrically-excitable quasi-harmonic Eigen-frequency of the transducer and i is the quasi-harmonic number. Pref. the acoustic velocity amplitude at the transducer/liq. interface is small compared with that in the transducer (most pref., zero).    USE -   Liq. treatment method, esp. useful for sepn. of particles from liqs. esp. useful for sepns. in biotechnology.    ADVANTAGE -   Can be used in biotechnology, also to sterilise equipment, deactivate microorganisms, accelerate chemical reactions in soln., etc. gives good ultrasonic treatment with reduced power consumption and minimises heating of the liq.
(JP2750792-B2)      In an oil extracting device, a thermal decomposition device (1) comprises a heating oven (5); an agitating member (10) to agitate synthetic resin in the heating oven (5); and a heating furnace (6) to heat the heating oven (5). The thermal decomposition device (1) is coupled to a discharge device (30) having a forced delivery member (30B) to forcibly discharge scales in the discharge cylinder (30A). The discharge cylinder (30) has a gap closing member (30) or is provided with a piston (3D). Scales accumulated on the bottom of the heating oven (5) are agitated by the agitating member (10) and transferred to the feed side of the discharge cylinder (30A) and discharged by the forced delivery member (30B).    ADVANTAGE -   Scales thermally decomposed to produce residues are efficiently discharged by a discharging device. The thermal decomposition device is continuously operated and waste plastic is efficiently treated to extract oil through very simple maintenance.
(JP8510204-W)      A plant for composting material, which is introduced into a number of initial zones (4) and conveyed through intermediate zones (5,6) to final zones (7) from where it is removed, has: fresh air conveyed (22,23) through the intermediate zones (5,6), and part of the discharged air conveyed (25) through at least one initial zone (4) to heat it. Air discharged from the initial and intermediate zones (5,6) is passed through the final zones (7) for odour purification before discharge from the plant.    Also claimed is a process for composting material by conveying it through successive zones and recirculating air discharged from intermediate zones to initial zones, and passing air through final zones for odour purificn. before discharge.    USE -   Organic waste is composted, with discharged air being deodorised.    ADVANTAGE -   Rapid and efficient heating of waste to process temp. is obtd. Process rate and efficiency are significantly increased. An external odour-purificn. plant is unnecessary, reducing down-time.
(FR2706128-A1)      Deodorisation of animal excreta comprises contacting the faeces with an aq. compsn. contg. (a) H2O2; (b) an organic peroxide; and (c) a mineral acid.    USE/ADVANTAGE -   The deodorised excreta is used as agricultural fertiliser (claimed).The process is simple and harmless. The compsn. is stable, needs no pretreatment before application, and does not harm the environment.
(DE4318824-C2)      To decompose the organic components of a material, held within an enclosed container for composting, the amount of air fed is used as a setting value to bring it close to the composting temp. (19). During the temp. increase phase (14), the ventilation is set to come to a temp. level with max. increase rate to reduce the heating time. The decomposition rate of the product is set through the given decomposition time within a decomposition phase (17).    ADVANTAGE -   The decomposition temp. is achieved with a min. time delay, and the composition of the rotted material can be structured.
(DE4318819-C2)      Container for composting the organic components of the contained material comprises an air guide channel (14) along at least part of 1 side wall (15) of the container (6), near an inner surface (36). It is linked to an opening within the container (6) for an air feed.    ADVANTAGE -   The container assembly can be fed with heated air during the winter and thus can continue with intensive decomposition of material into a compost.
(NL9300834-A)      A cooling device is equipped with a system contg. a compressor, a damper and connecting pipes and is filled with a cooling medium. The cooling medium comprises a mixt. of a Cl-free cooling agent, a mineral lubricating oil and one or more of propane, isobutane, cyclopropane or dimethyl ether.    A method for the fabrication of the cooling device is also claimed, in which the above cooling agent replaces a Cl-based cooling material.    USE -   A cooling device which utilises a Cl-free cooling agent e.g. R-134a.    ADVANTAGE -   Cl-free cooling agents e.g. R-134a are more environmentally acceptable and can replace chlorofluorocarbons.
(NL9420025-A)      An emptying device for the mixing container of a waste treatment biogas plant is arranged at the lower end of the mixing container and comprises a lock with inclined valves at the inlet and outlet ends. The valves are inclined to prevent the discharged material from jamming them.    USE -   For the controlled, periodic discharge of the mixing container in a biogas plant.    ADVANTAGE -   The invention provides a means for the removal of undesired components from the biogas plant mixing container continually and periodically without interrupting the actual process.    (DE4493063-T)      An emptying device for the mixing container of a waste treatment biogas plant is arranged at the lower end of the mixing container and comprises a lock with inclined valves at the inlet and outlet ends. The valves are inclined to prevent the discharged material from jamming them.    USE -   For the controlled, periodic discharge of the mixing container in a biogas plant.    ADVANTAGE -   The invention provides a means for the removal of undesired components from the biogas plant mixing container continually and periodically without interrupting the actual process.
(NL9300800-A)      Moving floor conveyor has a conveying surface formed by longitudinally movable planks arranged side by side and supported on guides (2). Several planks are moved forward as a unit and then moved back one by one or successively a small number at a time. Air passages (3) have knives or scrapers (7) to remove material infiltrating them as the planks move.    Pref., the passages are recesses in the upper surfaces of the guide with cover wings (6) on at least one edge of the planks to close them off. The knives or scrapers (7) protrude into the recesses.    USE -   Used for composting manure or waste.    ADVANTAGE -   Air passages in floor do not become blocked.    (DE4493155-T)      Moving floor conveyor has a conveying surface formed by longitudinally movable planks arranged side by side and supported on guides (2). Several planks are moved forward as a unit and then moved back one by one or successively a small number at a time. Air passages (3) have knives or scrapers (7) to remove material infiltrating them as the planks move.    Pref., the passages are recesses in the upper surfaces of the guide with cover wings (6) on at least one edge of the planks to close them off. The knives or scrapers (7) protrude into the recesses.    USE -   Used for composting manure or waste.    ADVANTAGE -   Air passages in floor do not become blocked.
NOVELTY - An oxidizing-agent supplying-flow board (40) comprises an oxidizing-agent flow path (39) whose width is decreased gradually along down-stream flow-path region, to emit water content produced by reaction of fuel and oxidizing agent, from cathode pole at favorable flow rate.    USE - Solid-polymer-electrolyte fuel cell (SPFC).    ADVANTAGE - Stable cell reaction is maintained.