TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Reformer: When the burner is fixed to the top of the reformer, each distillation plate is installed on the lower end of the outer tube and inner tube. When the burner is fixed to the bottom of the reformer, the distillation plates are installed on the top end of the outer tube and inner tube. The reformer also has a steam generator in the inner or outer part of the reformer. The reformer can be combined with a fuel cell.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Method: To improve the adhesion, the surfaces of the separator, the anode and/or the cathode are subjected to an oxidation treatment (preferably plasma oxidation, solution oxidation or radical oxidation). These treated surfaces are modified using reactive (preferably acrylate, vinylether, epoxide or thiolene) groups.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Adhesive: The adhesive used for bonding the separator and the electrode is either a thermal adhesive or a polymerizable adhesive and provided in a dotted manner. EXAMPLE - An anode plate (manufactured from meso-carbon micro-grains, decalin and ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) and a cathode plate (manufactured from LiCoO2, decalin, UHMWPE, soot) were fitted with current collectors. Both the plates were provided with a special dotted pattern of thermal adhesive. A porous polypropylene was placed between the cathode and anode plates and bonded by exposure to heat and pressure. The dry battery construction so formed was immersed in an electrolyte of LiPF6 in 1:1 EC:DEC.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Process: The surface water contact angle of the material is 0-90 degrees by surface treatment, by corona discharge or plasma irradiation. EXAMPLE - A laminated film (A) was obtained by laminating a film having exchange capacity of 0.97 m eq/g and 75 microns thickness, with a copolymer film having exchange capacity of 0.85 m eq/g and 20 microns thickness containing a perfluoro carbon monomer with sulfonyl fluoride groups and tetrafluoro ethylene. The first film was a copolymer of perfluoro carbon monomer with a carboxylic acid methyl ester group and tetrafluoro ethylene. A film B was also formed (exchange capacity 1.05 m eq/g, 25 microns thickness) containing copolymer of perfluoro carbon monomer which has sulfonyl fluoride group and TFE. Polyethylene terephthalate fiber (35 denier, 23 microns size) and PTFE (150 denier, 110 microns size) were used as reinforcing member, and a support web was created. The web of support body was subjected to vacuum in a glass chamber, at 0.1 or less torrs and then argon gas at 0.3 torrs. 14 MHz radiowave was impressed for 5 minutes for plasma treatment. After surface treatment, the water contact angle of web was 85 degrees. The web was laminated with film (B) and laminate film (A) at 220 degrees C. The obtained laminate was soaked in 16.8 g potassium hydroxide, 30 g DMSO, and 70 g pure water. Reaction was carried out for 1 hour at 90 degrees C. The sulfonyl fluoride functional groups were transformed into potassium sulfonate. The material was then soaked in 0.5 N NaOH solution at 85 degrees C for 30 minutes. DC resistance of material was measured and found to be 22.4 mOMEGA/cm2. Fracture strength of medium at tension at 45 degrees vertical and horizontal stretch, was 1.2 kg.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Method: A second thin layer of a degassed liquid from monomer, oligomer, and/or resin is deposited to the first solid polymer layer under vacuum, and cured. Preferred Component: The material is oligomer, and/or resin. It includes a filler.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Material: The porous material is a hydrophilic resin, metal or ceramic material. The resin is preferably polyolefin group resin. Preferred Properties: The polyolefin group resin has melt index of 0.01-100 g/10 minutes, density of 0.85-0.97 g/cc and mean particle diameter of 5-2000 micron.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - A photo-electro-chemical battery uses the opto-electric conversion element.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Examples of the positive electrode binder: include a polytetrafluoroethylene, polyvinlidene fluoride, fluorocarbon rubber, polypropylene, polyethylene. Preferred negative electrode binder: consists of a composite binder of a water-soluble macromolecule and a synthetic rubber-based latex adhesive.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The production of the battery comprises:(a) copolymerizing the ethylene glycol methacrylate compound with the alkyl methacrylate in the battery; and(b) producing the polymer electrolyte.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The amount of the amine-based antioxidant is 0.05-1 part by weight per 100 parts by weight of the hydrocarbon-based side chain. The copolymer of the fluorocarbon-based vinyl monomer to the hydrocarbon-based vinyl monomer of formula (I) is new.R1 = F or 1-3C fluoroalkyl;R2 = H or 1-3C alkyl;m = integer of 1 or higher;n = integer of 1 or higher.The hydrocarbon-based side chain of formula (II) is new.R3, R4, R5 = H, or 1-3C alkyl;s = integer of 1 or higher;t = integer of 1 or higher.A fuel cell is formed of a jointing body sandwiched by separators. The jointing body is formed of the solid polyelectrolyte film sandwiched by electrodes and the electrodes.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - The electrolyte contains the following: (a) a compound having an ether bond and a crosslinking group. Where, the compound is crosslinked by the crosslinking group; (b) a high-molecular compound; and (c) an electrolytic salt, including a lithium salt. The production of the electrolyte comprises: (a) mixing the compound capable of crosslinking and having the ether bond and the functional group capable of crosslinking with the high-molecular compound, and the electrolyte; (b) crosslinking the compound. Where, the compound is crosslinked by irradiation with an ultraviolet ray, electron beam, X-ray, gamma ray, microwave, or high frequency, or by heating. A battery has a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and the electrolyte.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Ionic Group: The ionic, conductive functional group is sulfonic acid group or carboxylic acid group.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Process: After irradiation of the electrolytic film with ionizing radiation, the film is subjected to heat treatment for 2 minutes - 1 hour.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Battery: The outer diameter of the flange is the same as that of the filter. The gasket is made from fluorine resin, blown asphalt or silicone resin. The flange and the filter are laser or resistance welded.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The coating can be applied, for instance, to a polycarbonate mask.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Electrolyte: The organic solvent contained in polyelectrolyte is preferably carbonate ester and contains lithium salt of molecular weight 1000 or less dissolved in it. The content of the lithium salt solution in the polyelectrolyte is preferably 30-80 weight%. EXAMPLE - Vinylidene fluoride copolymer was prepared and 10 weight part (wt.pt) of the copolymer was dissolved in argon atmosphere with 32 wt.pt of tetrahydrofuran (THF). Lithium phosphofluoride (LiPF6) was dissolved in a mixed solvent containing ethylene carbonate and propylene carbonate and this solution was mixed with vinylidene fluoride copolymer solution and heated at 60degreesC. The solution was then cooled and applied as a coating on a glass substrate and dried at 40degreesC. THF was removed and a transparent polyelectrolyte film of thickness 100 mum was produced. The film was inserted between a lithium anode and carbon cathode. The coating of the outer side was carried out with outer cladding film and lithium ion secondary battery was produced. Charging and discharging cycle tests were performed. The cell was found have excellent charging and discharging properties and the capacitive retention after 1000 cycles was found to be 92%.
EXAMPLE - A typical fluorine resin sheet of which a solar cell module consists includes polytetrafluoro ethylene (PTFE), belfluoroalkoxyl resin (PFA) consisting of a copolymer of tetrafluoro ethylene and perfluoro alkyl vinyl ether, a tetra fluoroethylene and hexafluoropropylene copolymer (PEP), tetrafluoroethylene-ethylene or propylene copolymer (ETFE), and polychloro trifuloro ethylene resin (PCTFE).
EXAMPLE - Example 1: Mixture of trimethylolpropane (1 mol) ethyleneoxide (3 mol) adduct 32.0g, diethyleneglycol 114.6g, dimethylcarbonate 124.3g, catalyst 28% sodium methoxide solution in methanol 0.23g was held at 95degreesC for 2 hours, then heated at 150degreesC for 4 hours. Then polymerized at 5mmHg and 150-155degreesC. Viscous oily polycarbonate polyol 145g was obtained by treating with chloroform and activated clay. Mw = 4,200. This was treated (42.0g) with triethylamine 8.9g, dichloromethane 100ml and acryloylchloride 3.6g and agitated at 5degreesC. Then added with 3.7g of chloropropionic acid and agitated at 5degreesC for 1 hour. Product polycarbonateacrylate = viscous oil 43.1g, showing that polyol OH-group converted partly to acrylates and rest to propionates. Uniform solution was prepared by mixing this polymer 1.0g with an electrolytic solution (1mol/liter) 3.0g prepared by dissolving LiPF6 in a mixture of ethylenecarbonate and propylenecarbonate (1:1). This solution 150 microliter was coated on a glass plate, heated at 70degreesC and irradiated with UV beam at 300 mW/cm2 for 30 minutes to obtain a cured polymer electrolyte film of 423 micron thickness. Ion conductivity = 2.88 (mS/cm). Comparative Example 1: In the esterification of polycarbonatepolyols in Example 1, amount of acryloylchloride was changed to 7.1g and chloropropionic acid none, all others similar, obtaining a product viscous oil 42.8g. OH-group of polyols were converted to acrylates. A 465 micron thick electrolyte film was prepared, giving 2.12 mS/cm of ion conductivity.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Process: The concentration of the electrolyte solution is 0.2-0.5 mole/liter. The applied voltage is 1-8 V, preferably 2-5 V. The electrolyte is a Cu or Ni solution with a small addition of H2SO4. The molecular weight of the polyethylene glycol used in post-treatment is 1000-10000, and post-treatment is carried out in a melt at 70-90 degrees C. In waste disposal of the foil, the foil is treated with alcohol, and the insoluble polymer part is separated, recycled, incinerated, or deposited, the metal in the starch/alkali acetate solution is electrolytically deposited, and the residual solution is fermented to methane. EXAMPLE - Starch acetate (500 g) was mixed with polyethylene glycol (100 g) (molecular weight 400) to give a dry blend, and polyethylene carbonate powder (400 g) was added. This mixture was processed at 180 degrees C to give a granulate, from which a 20 micron film was obtained by extrusion of electrical conductivity 10-3 to 10-5 Scm-1, tensile strength 16.5 N/mm2, E-modulus 580 N/mm2.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Materials: The compound (I), (III), and (IV) is of the following formula.R18-19 = 1-6C alkyl or 2-6C alkenyl;l, m and n are integers 0-12 and cannot all be 0.R20-23 = 1-6C alkyl or 2-6C alkenyl;o, p, q, r and s = 0-12 and cannot all be 0.R24-27 = 1-6C alkyl or 2-6C alkenyl;t, u, v and w = 0-12 and cannot all be 0.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Composition: The methacrylonitrile polymer contain 30 mol percent or more of methacrylonitrile unit and, acrylonitrile polymer contains 90 mol.% or more of acrylonitrile unit. The mixed weight ratio of methacrylonitrile polymer and acrylonitrile polymer is 10:90-80:20. The polymeric electrolytic gel contains 5-50 wt.% of polymer. The acrylonitrile polymer is a short fiber made from pulp of fibrous trunk, having branched fibril. Preferred Properties: The short fiber has diameter of 1-20 mum and length of 2-5 mm. A mixed solvent comprising non-aqueous solvent (B) having viscosity greater than 1cPs is used as non-aqueous solvent (A). The non-aqueous solvent (B) is cyclic carbonate having dielectric constant greater than 20 and viscosity greater than 1cPs. EXAMPLE - Copolymer (A) contains methacrylonitrile and acrylonitrile in weight ratio of 80/20. Copolymer (B) is a mixture of acrylonitrile and vinyl acetate in weight ratio of 98/2. Copolymer (A) and copolymer (B) were mixed in weight ratio of 40/60 and an aqueous dispersion was prepared. A wet paper was formed by JISP-8209 and the sheet was impregnated with prepared dispersion. A solution having LiPF6 concentration of 1 mol/kg, polymer concentration of 10 wt.% and comprising, propylene carbonate/dimethyl carbonate was prepared. The sheet was immersed in the solution, dissolved at 100degreesC, left at room temperature for a day and gelled. The gel was piled into sample bottles to form sheet of thickness 2 cm and left at 80degreesC for 8 days. The gelled shape was found to be retained and the ion conductivity of the obtained gel was found to be 6.5 mS/cm.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Membrane: The cloth is a fluorine reinforced fiber. Preferred Properties: The pressure applications which is isotropic performs heating in a press board. The temporary reinforcing material performs elution by hydrolysis.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The weight ratio of the monomer unit consisting of the vinylidene fluoride to the monomer unit consisting of the alpha-fluoroacrylate: 95/5-5/95. Preferred solvent contained in the macromolecular electrolyte: ester carbonate. The macromolecular electrolyte: contains the lithium salt-dissolved solution, 30-80 percent by weight.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Resin: Seal and photovoltaic cell consists of tetrafluoroethylene ethylene(ETFE) copolymer poly fluoride vinyl resin (PVF), polyvinylidene, fluoride resin (PVDF), poly tetrafluoro ethylene resin (TFE), tetrafluoro ethylene hexafluoride propylene copolymer (FEP), polytrifluoro chloroethylene resin (CTFE). Also polyolefin type resins like ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA), ethylene unsaturated fatty acid copolymers, butyral resin, urethane resin, silicone resin etc.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - Preferred Metallic Foil: Metallic foil is made of oxygen free copper like C1020P. EXAMPLE - The metallic foil with thickness of 100-120 mum and vickers hardness of 60, 80, 120 was used during manufacture of solar battery. Specific resin was coated on the photovoltaic cells to thickness of 50 mum using vacuum lamination apparatus. The module is inspected under dynamic load for usual cycles, which indicates the resistance improvement of photovoltaic cells against bending, even under installation in outdoors.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Process: The process further comprises treating with dilute acid. The organic monomer is an acid precursor. The plasma is a capacitive or inductively coupled RF plasma or microwave plasma with or without an ECR arrangement. The organic monomer is butadiene, toluene, methylmethacrylate, pentafluorostyrene, octafluorocyclobutane or vinylsulfonic acid. An organic or inorganic comonomer is added to the organic monomer. The comonomer is CO2, SO2, hexamethyldisiloxane, divinyltetramethyldisiloxane, hexamethylcyclotrisiloxane or octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Method: The spacer is previously arranged on and fixed to the back plate.Preferred Battery: The set of photoelectric conversion cells are formed in a region within the deposited metal electrode layer's region.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - Preferred Materials: The spacer is formed of aluminum foil. The back electrode of the thin-film photoelectric conversion cell is formed substantially of silver.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Material: The spacer is formed of Teflon.A back sealing resin filler or an organic back protection film of a dark color selected from black, brown and wine red protects the transparent electrode layer, the semiconductor layer and the metal electrode layer of the solar battery.A sealing resin layer and an organic protection film are successively stacked on the inorganic protection film of the thin-film photoelectric conversion cell.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: The semiconductor layer of the solar battery contains silicon as a main component. The inorganic protection film of the thin-film photoelectric conversion cell contains one of gold, platinum, aluminum, titanium, silicon dioxide, aluminum oxide and zinc oxide preferably titanium.The photoelectric conversion unit of semiconductor includes a photoelectric conversion layer formed of hydrogenated amorphous silicon or an alloy thereof, or crystalline silicon.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - A solar battery is formed by sealing a cell for the solar battery, using the sealing film between a clear protective member at its top surface side and a protective member at its bottom surface side.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Materials: The water-resistant layer is ethylene-propylene diene monomer (EPDM). EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the invention, bearing(s) is associated with the second side and an electrical connection unit is arranged between the first and second sides. A clamp is used for clamping solar panels to the bearing having lath(s) (L) extending across the second side. A water resistant layer (17) is arranged over the second side and the laths of the system.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Method: The gasket is molded to the PEM. A molten material is injected into a mold cavity containing a portion of PEM. The molten material is maintained at a temperature that does not damage the PEM. The molten material is injected onto the opposite sides of the PEM by passing through the other side. An index is formed with the gasket by molding a bead (42). The bead is aligned with a channel in one of the plates. A first catalytic layer is placed between each of the plates and PEM. The portion of upper and lower surfaces is encapsulated with the gasket about the periphery of the PEM.Preferred Cell: The plates have a gasket groove (26) and the gasket is dimensioned to be sealingly received in the gasket groove. The gasket further comprises a structural support having multiple openings. The assembly further comprises a seal strip positioned on the other anode and cathode plates opposite to the gasket channel when the fuel cell is assembled so that the portion of the gasket will contact the PEM and urges the PEM to contact with the seal strip. The gasket has multiple lobes extending from the gasket to contact the membrane when fuel cell is assembled. The membrane has gas diffusion fabric layer (GDL) between the PEM and at inner surface(s).    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Material: The molten material is silicone rubber. The seal strip is a layer of silicone elastomer in 0.005 inches thick.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Materials: The polymer electrolyte contains the non aqueous electrolytic solution, 50 percent by weight or more. A non aqueous battery has a positive electrode consisting of a positive electrode material absorbing and releasing lithium, a negative electrode consisting of a negative electrode material absorbing and releasing the lithium, or consisting of metal lithium, and the polymer electrolyte between the positive electrode and the negative electrode.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The peroxy ester has formula (II).R11 = alkyl or aryl group having at least 2 carbon atoms;R41 to R61 = alkyl or aryl groupThe monomer has formula (III), especially diethyleneglycol diacrylate, triethyleneglycol diacrylate, tetraethylene glycol diacrylate, or tripropylene glycol diacrylate.R', R'' = H or lower alkyl group;n = integer of 1-50The lithium salt is LiPF6, LiBF4, LiClO4, CF3Li, or (CF3SO2)2NLi. The solvent is carbonates or lactones.The monomer, solvent, and peroxy ester are mixed and aged for at least 3 min., than the mixture is heated to be cured. The mixture is cured at 50-150 degrees C.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Electrolyte: A polymer electrolyte consists of an electrolytic matrix resin and a nonaqueous electrolytic solution impregnated into the electrolytic matrix resin. The electrolytic matrix resin is obtained by reacting the vinyl group of the polymer composition.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - A photo-electric transducer comprises the new electrolyte, a conductive support, a semiconductor containing layer formed on the conductive support, and a counter electrode. The semiconductor is dye-sensitized semiconductor fine particles. A photo-electrochemical cell comprises the photo-electric transducer. SPECIFIC COMPOUNDS - The polymer is poly(metha)acrylate which is given by radically polymerizing the compound of formula (1) and (metha)acrylate in a weight ratio of 1:99 to 30:70. Radical polymerization is carried out at 40-150 degreesC.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Compound: The strongly acidic cross-linking group is chosen from bis sulfonyl imide, sulfonyl carbonyl imide, bis carbonyl imide and bis sulfonyl methylene. EXAMPLE - The perfluoro group sulfonyl fluoride film was cross-linked using 20 mol% of acidic cross-linking agent to form polymer electrolyte film. The equivalent weight of the electrolyte film was 1100 g/eq, electric conductivity was 0.070 S/cm and creep resistance at 200degreesC was greater than 24.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: Ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA) contains vinyl acetate of 50 mass% or less preferably 26-30 mass%. Silane coupling agents preferably vinyl trimethoxy silane or gamma-chloro propyl trimethoxy silane at a ratio of below 5 mass parts, preferably below 0.0001-0.02 mass parts, is also added to 100 mass parts of EVA. Photosensitizers like benzoin or benzoin isopropyl ether in the amount below 10 mass parts, is also added to 100 mass parts of EVA.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Components: Solar battery sealing material contains 10-26 mass% preferably 10-20 mass% of ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA) with a crosslinked structure.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Coupling Agent: The ratio of silane coupling agent is below 5 mass part, preferably 0.0001-0.02 mass part, for 100 mass parts of EVA.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Component: The semiconductor layer contains silicon. The first electrode layer comprises a transparent conductive oxide. The second electrode layer comprises a metal, a laminate comprising metal layers, or a laminate comprising a conductive oxide layer and a metal layer. Heat treatment is done in air at 150degreesC for at least 20 minutes. Parts of the semiconductor and electrode layers are removed by laser beam irradiation at room temperature.
Preferred Definitions:    n = at least2.    EXAMPLE - None given.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Concentration: The impurities concentration in the sealant is less than 1%. The concentration of chlorine, sulfur and phosphorus in the sealant is 300 ppm or less.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Composition: 10-25 mol % of polymer unit B and polymer unit C is contained in the copolymer when compared to total amount of polymer unit A. The copolymer contains 5 mol % of polymer unit B when compared to total amount of polymer units A and C and 2 mol% or more of polymer unit C when compared to total amounts of polymer units A and B.
EXAMPLE - Mixture of metals, whose composition was La0.7Mg0.3(Ni0.8Co0.16Cr0.01Mn0.02Al0.01)(3.1), was molten in Ar gas then quenched to form ingots, which were thermally treated then ground in the inert gas. 100 weight parts of the powdered alloy was added with 0.2 weight part of carboxy-methyl-cellulose and 50 weight parts of water then their mixture was kneaded to form paste.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Arrangement: A catalyst layer (7, 9) is arranged between the braiding (3) and the layer (5) of ion-conducting material. The catalyst layer (9) is covered by a further braiding (11) made of bundles and/or wires of an electron-conducting material. The catalyst layer (7, 9) is made of a group VIII element, optionally together with activated charcoal or graphite powder. The catalyst layer has hydrophobic additions and/or proton conducting material.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Materials: The ion-conducting material is made of a sulfonated aromatic polyetheretherketone, Nafion, or other polyarylether.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Process: Stages (1) and (2) last for 0.5-10 hours and 1-5 hours respectively and the salt solution used in stage 2 has a concentration of 0.1-0.5 mol/l. Stage 3 involves treatment with PEG in aqueous solution or with PEG in a melt at 70-90degreesC.Preferred Substance: PEG has a mol. wt. of 2000-10000.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Salt: The solution used in stage 2 contains cations of alkali metals (preferably lithium or sodium), alkaline earth metals (preferably calcium or magnesium), copper(II), zinc, nickel(II) or cobalt(III), or ammonium, alkylammonium or arylammonium cations, with anions such as perchlorate, bromide, thiocyanate or tetrafluoroborate. EXAMPLE - A mixture of 500 g starch acetate (DS = 2.3) and 100 g polyethylene glycol (mol. wt. 400) was processed in a high-speed mixer to form a dry blend. 400 g polyethylene carbonate powder was added and the mixture was compounded at 180degreesC in a twin screw extruder. The granules obtained were processed to an extruded film (A) with a thickness of 20 microns. Film (A) was kept in water for 5 hours and then in 0.5-M copper(II) sulfate solution, after which it was treated for 1 hour at 70-90degreesC in a polyethylene glycol melt (mol. wt. 2000).    The treated film showed a conductivity of 3.8 x 10 to the power - 6 (5.3 x 10 to the power -11) S/cm, a tensile strength of 13.1 (14.8) N/mm2, a tensile modulus of 495 (445) N/mm2 and an elongation at break of 389 (418) %. Values in brackets are for the untreated film (A).
EXAMPLE - Mixture of metals, whose composition was La0.7Mg0.3(Ni0.8Co0.16Cr0.01Mn0.02Al0.01)3.1, was melted in Ar gas then quenched to form ingots, which were thermally treated then ground in the inert gas. 100 parts weight of the powdered alloy was added with 0.2 part weight of carboxymethyl-cellulose and 50 parts weight of water then their mixture was kneaded to form paste.
SPECIFIC COMPOUNDS - The monomer (A) comprises a monomer represented by formula (III).    R',R = hydrogen atom or lower alkyl;    n = 0 - 150.    The monomer (A) is selected from diethylene glycol diacrylate, triethylene glycol diacrylate, tetraethylene glycol diacrylate, tripropylene glycol diacrylate. The lithium salt is one of LiPF6, LiBF4, LiClO4, SO3Li and (CF3SO2)2NLi. The solvent is carbonates or lactones.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Method: The conductive composite sheet comprises a metal which tends to form a carbide. EXAMPLE - (In weight percent) Slurry comprising ground graphite powder (70) having average particle diameter conductive composite sheet which comprises laminate integration of non-baked paper making sheet with electrically conductive molding board containing metal sheet or graphite, and has very low electrical resistance and permeability; and (iii) of 5mum, wood pulp (17), phenol resin (bell pearl S-895) having weight average molecular weight of 10000 (13) and water, was used in paper making. Subsequently, a calendering roll was performed to obtain a paper sheet with fabric weight of 115 g/m2 and thickness of 0.2 mm. The paper sheet was laminated to graphite board and pressed for 60 minutes followed by pinching with pressure application of 5 kg/cm2 and baked for 30 minutes at 250degreesC to obtain graphite sheet. The graphite sheet is used as collector sheet or as an inter connector for solid polymeric type fuel batteries. Electric specific resistance and permeability of the graphite sheet was 10 mOMEGAcm and 1x107 cc/cm2/sec/atm respectively.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred film: The clear flexible resin: consists of an ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer resin. The depth is a difference between the topmost portion of the projected portion and the deep most portion of the recessed portion.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The housing preferably has glass fibre reinforced polyester or epoxy resin channels.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The clear flexible resin composition: consists of an ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer resin. Preferred clear filler: one or two or more selected from the group consisting of glass beads, a milled fiber, crosslinked polystyrene particles, crosslinked methyl polymethacrylate, and crosslinked silicone particles. A solar battery is formed by sealing a cell for the solar battery, using the sealing film between a clear protective member at its top surface side and a protective member at its bottom surface side. The sealing film is provided between the cell and the protective member at its bottom surface side.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The ethylene-alpha-olefin copolymer is obtained using a metallocene catalyst. The battery case is injection-molded from the resin composition, and has transparency of 86-94%, as haze value measured by JIS-K7105.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The adhesive to retain the batteries may be urethane- or silicon-based with high elasticity even when cured
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred Process: The first plate has a conducting layer (3). It is oriented to contact the coated wires, thus electrically contacting the wires after compression. The plates are fired to improve the adhesion to the coated wires. The coated wires are then precompressed to provide the coating with a locally flat surface.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Materials: The insulating metal wire coating is a fluoroplastic material from fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP), perfluoroalkoxy (PFA), ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE), or polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). The plastic material is Surlyn (RTM: ethylene-acrylic copolymer).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Sealing Material: The sealing material comprises an ionomer or a blend of copolymer and ionomer of ethylene and unsaturated carboxylic acid. The sealing material of solar battery has mean degree of neutralization of 1-30% and optical line transmittance of 90% or more. The storage modulus of the battery is 103 Pa at 150degreesC. EXAMPLE - Ethylene acrylic acid and (ethylene methacrylic acid copolymer) ionomer were extruded into a sheet of width 350 mm and thickness of 0.5 mm. A sealing material for solar battery was produced. The melting point, freezing point and optical wire transmittance of sealing material containing ethylene methacrylic acid copolymer were 92degreesC, 61degreesC and 93%, respectively. The sealing material had good adhesive property. Ts/T
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Property: The composite powder has a specific surface area of 1 - 100 m2/g.Preferred Materials: The metal particles or metal oxide particles contain at least one metal selected from lead, antimony, boron, indium, gallium, thallium, phosphorus, arsenic, palladium and platinum and their metal oxides. The metal oxide particles have a composition of formula (I) and are crystalline or amorphous:A = one element selected from silicon, tin, germanium, aluminum, zinc, bismuth and magnesium;B = at least one element selected from silicon, tin, germanium, aluminum, zinc, bismuth, magnesium, phosphorus, boron, calcium, sodium, lithium and fluorine;x = 0 - 1.5; andy = 1.0 - 5.5.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INSTRUMENTATION AND TESTING - Preferred Properties: The carbonaceous material or the graphite has a (002) interplanar spacing of 0.3350 - 0.3650 nm by X-ray diffraction. The carbonaceous material or the graphite has a peak intensity ratio of 1360 cm-1 to 1580 cm-1 being a 15 to 2.0 by argon laser Raman spectroscopy.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Battery: The battery is used as a power source in an electrical appliance. The battery has a protective means against overcharging and overdischarging.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: The lithium material is a lithium metal , a lithium alloy, and a lithium insertion compound.Preferred Cell: The battery cell further comprising an electrolyte separator.Preferred Method: The method further comprising interposing an electrolyte separator between the positive and negative electrodes.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Compound: The dioxolane co-solvent comprises 5-15, preferably 10, vol.% of the electrolyte solvent mixture. The second co-solvent is hexamethylphosphoramide, pyridine, N,N-diethylacetamide, N,N-diethylformamide, dimethylsulfoxide, tetramethylurea, N,N-dimethylacetamide, N,N-dimethylformamide, tributylphosphate, trimethylphosphate N,N,N',N'-tetraethylsulfamide, tetramethylenediamine, tetramethylpropylenediamine, and pentamethyldiethylenetriamine.Preferred Electrolyte: The electrolyte further comprises a second co-solvent having a donor number of 13, and an electrolyte salt such as LiN(CF3SO2)2, LiCF3SO3, LiClO4, LiPF6, LiBF4, LiAsF6. The electrolyte is in a liquid or a gel or a solid state. The electrolyte is also a catholyte comprising a dissolved lithium polysulfide.Preferred Material: The electrochemically active material comprises sulfur in the form of elemental sulfur, a metal sulfide, a metal polysulfide, an organosulfur material, and their combinations. The metal is alkali (ne earth)metals, and their mixtures. The electrochemically active material preferably comprises Li2S8. SPECIFIC COMPOUNDS - The main solvent is dimethoxyethane.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Components: One elastic seal (17) consists of silicone rubber or a cured hot melt adhesive and the other elastic seal (16) consists of butyl rubber.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Modifier: Alternately, a distributed hole catalyst sheet having corrugated fins on both sides is arranged between combustion catalyst sheets. Each combustion catalyst sheet has porous thin film containing platinum. A flat plate for supplying combustion air and combustion off gas flat plate are configured below and above the distributed hole catalyst sheet. A heat recovery flat plate is configured to exhaust the heat generated due to catalytic combustion. Alternately, a corrugated fin is arranged between carbon monoxide oxidation catalyst sheets containing platinum and ruthenium. The CO oxidation part is divided into two partitions by a heat insulation flat plate which has projection. Many modifying parts are laminated such that modifying catalyst sheet and corrugated fin are alternately arranged. Preferred Constructor: The constructor for performing modification, combustion, CO oxidation and vaporization are laminated. A soft polytetrafluoro ethylene sheet or expanded graphite sheet is placed between each constructor. A gas seal sheet is formed so that the reaction is not impaired.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The electrolyte layer is a gel containing: an electrolyte salt such as LiPF6, LiAsF6, LiBF4, LiClO4, LiCF3SO3, Li(CF3SO2)2N and/or LiC4F9SO3; a matrix polymer such as polyacrylonitrile, polyvinylidene fluoride, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyhexafluoropropylene, polyethylene oxide, polypropylene oxide, polyphosphagen, polysiloxane, polyvinyl acetate, polyvinyl alcohol, polymethyl methacrylate, polyacrylic acid, polymethacrylic acid, styrene-butadiene rubber, nitrile-butadiene rubber, polystyrene or polycarbonate; and a swelling solvent such as ethylene carbonate, propylene carbonate, butylene carbonate, gamma-butylactone, gamma-valerolactone, diethoxyethane, tetrahydrofuran, 2-methyltetrahydrofuran, 1,3-dioaxne, methyl acetate, dimethylcarbonate, diethyl carbonate and/or ethyl methyl carbonate.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Component: A sunlight -absorbing layer is applied over the liquid impermeable layer. This absorbing layer preferably consists of CrON or TiON and may be applied by a sputtering or vapor deposition process.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Component: The fluid-impermeable layer is made of a polymer, preferably epoxy or polyester resin.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Process: The active layer is made of cadmium telluride. The plasma is produced by a laser.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: The spacer and the frame (32) are made from aluminum.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - Preferred Material: The spacer and the frame are made from steel.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Material: The spacer and the sealant are made of butyl rubber. The sealant is made of polycarbonate.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: The spacer and the frame are made from vinyl, wood or vinyl-clad wood.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred method: The tape is made of plastic polymer containing polypropylene.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - Preferred method: The tape is made of metal, the adhesive layer contains nickel powder, nickel-coated carbon fiber material. The base sheet may be a metal foil, woven or non-woven material.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Component: The plates preferably comprise a polyethylene piping system.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The electrode contacts are formed of metallized polyethylene terephthalate. SPECIFIC COMPOUNDS - The polymer is a modified polysulfone.    EXAMPLE - A battery was prepared using a thermoplastic polymer electrolyte-separator of UDEL P1700 (RTM) chemically modified to obtain an anionic ionomer by grafting of a propyl trimethyl ammonium group and propyl mercaptan side chains at the anodic side and trimethyl ammonium groups and sulfonamide side chains at the cathodic side. The cathodic material was prepared by anodic oxidation of a hot molar acid solution of manganese sulfate with an ammonium or sodium persulfate solution under stoichiometric conditions at 95degreesC, followed by filtering, washing and fluidized bed drying at 100degreesC for 4 hr. A zinc anode was prepared from a mixture of flakes of zinc and a sulfur derivative of zinc in a polymer electrolyte matrix of polysulfone modified by trimethyl ammonium and propyl mercaptan side chains. The battery compartments were formed separately by assembly of the metallized polymer film supporting the composite electrode film and the polymer electrolyte film and then the anodic and cathodic sandwich assemblies were joined to form a thin film battery of at most 100 mu thickness. The anodic compartment was formed on a PET film covered with Cu and the cathodic compartment used a film covered with Ni.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Electrolyte: The electrolyte comprises polyvinyl alcohol and phosphoric acid or poly benzimidazole and phosphoric acid and the organic material comprises polyaniline.Preferred Cell: The capacitor cell comprises anode containing titanium with surface(s) coated with titanium oxide, a cathode comprising organic material of carbon or polyaniline and the electrolyte containing polyvinyl alcohol and phosphoric acid or polybenzimidazole and phosphoric acid. EXAMPLE - Tantalum anode is extracted from the commercial 30 mF, 8V liquid electrolyte capacitor and employed as a anode in a hybrid capacitor. A 30 nm thick layer of tantalum oxide serves as a dielectric layer. The cathode comprised activated carbon extracted from carbon double layer and was soaked in 5M aqueous sulfuric acid on its side facing the anode. The electrodes were held in a close proximity and separated by 200 mu thick Celgard membrane. The capacitance of the assembled capacitor was 55 mF when measured at 0.1 Hz. The capacitor had high power output, energy density and the cost of fabrication was minimized.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Electrolyte: The polyolefins contained are 0.1-20 wt.% of fluorinated polyolefin such as polytetrafluoro ethylene and an aliphatic polyolefin containing 6-24C of saturated hydrocarbons. The concentration of aliphatic polyolefin is lesser than the concentration of halogenated polyolefin in the electrolyte.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Process: A selective layer is applied to the semiconductor layer of the cell through which solar radiation reflects in a photovoltaic region, the amount of heat radiation however being absorbed. Preferred Materials: The cell is made of Si, CdTe, CuInSe2 or GaAs, or a polycrystalline silicon film. A heat conducting device is located below the cell and is made of Al, galvanized steel sheet or Al-coated steel sheet.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Materials: The upper cover is made of acrylic, Plexiglass, Makrolon or polycarbonate.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Fuel Cell: The solvent-containing fluoropolymer is a polymer with fluorine-containing alicyclic structure having polymer units of formula (I), (II), (III) or (V), or (V)-(XIII).R1, R2, R3 = F, or trifluoromethylp = 0-5q = 0-4r = 0 or 1s, t, u = independently 0-5, p+q+r = 1-6, and s+t+u = 1-6.Amount of the fluoropolymer in the collector is 0.001-60%, with respect to the total collector weight. The porous sheet is particularly made from a carbonaceous material, in a thickness of 0.1-1 mm and with porosity of 30-90%.Preferred Process: The treated porous sheet is particularly heated at 100-250degreesC. EXAMPLE - A 2% polymer with polymer units of formula (XI), molecular weight of 100,000 in perfluoro(2-butyltetrahydrofuran)/perfluoro(tributylamine) in 1:1 ratio was used to impregnate a carbon paper at unit area equivalent to 0.6 mg/cm2 before drying at 25degreesC to give a collector. A 40% platinum-on-carbon black catalyst was mixed with a dispersion of resin of CF2=CF2/CF2-CF-O-CF2CF(CF3)-OOCF2CF2SO3H copolymer with ion-exchange capacity of 1.1 meq./g in ethanol/1,3-dichloro-1,1,2,2,3-pentafluoropropane (1:1), with catalyst and ion-exchange weight ratio of 0.75:0.25 (dispersion A). A similar dispersion (B) was also obtained by using a dry resin with ion-exchange capacity of 0.91 meq./g. An electrolytic membrane of perfluorosulfonic acid-type ion-exchange membrane Fremion R membrane (RTM; ion-exchange capacity = 1 meq./g dry resin; dry membrane thickness = 50 mum), with the dispersion (A) applied to the hydrogen electrode side and dispersion (B) to the air electrode side to give catalyst layers (platinum content = 0.5 mg/cm2) on both faces of the membrane, which was assembled into a single cell. Results of the evaluation study were: output voltage, after 10 hrs. = 0.59 V, after 500 hrs. = 0.57 V, and after 1000 hrs. = 0.55 V.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - TEXTILES AND PAPER - Preferred Composition: The nickel-coated graphite fibers comprise 10-40 wt.% of the total composition. The nickel-coating represents 45-60% or total weight percent of nickel-coated graphite fibers. At least 50%, preferably 75% of the bonds to ester or amide groups are to carbon atoms which are part of aromatic rings. The binder resin comprises 5-15 wt.% of graphite. 5-80 wt.% of graphite filler comprising graphite fiber is present in the total mixture.Preferred Fiber: The graphite fiber further comprises metal coating, preferably nickel coating. The nickel-coated graphite fiber further comprises non-liquid-crystalline thermoplastic binder resin.Preferred Properties: The nickel-coated graphite fibers has diameter of 5-15 microm. The TLCPR particles has mean particle size of less than 1500 microm, preferably less than 1000 microm. The graphite filler having fiber of length less than 2 cm.Preferred Polymer: The aromatic thermoplastic liquid crystalline polymer is polyester or poly(ester-amide).Preferred Article: The shaped article comprises a form of bipolar plate having thickness of 0.1-10 mm, preferably 1-3 mm and fluid distribution channels inscribed upon their surface.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Method: TiC is powder blended with a binder material and hot pressed at 175-190degreesC and at 10,000-40,000 psi, preferably at 190degreesC and 30000 psi. Preferred Binder: The binder is polysulfone, polyvinylidene fluoride resin, polyethylene, polypropylene, fluoroethylenepropylene, polyimide, polyetheretherketone, polyetherketone, polyphenylene sulfide or polybenzyimidazole.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Apparatus: The bipolar plate is a flat plate having integral ribs that define gas flow passages between adjacent single fuel cells.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Fuel Cell: The single fuel cells are phosphoric acid fuel cells (PAFC). Preferred Property: The single fuel cells are regenerative proton exchange membrane fuel cells. EXAMPLE - No suitable example.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Tile: The tile, which corresponds in size to several standard tiles, has not less than 2 spaced and partly over-lapping water channels in different planes and overlaps.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Catalytic Material: The catalytic material comprises platinum (Pt) and/or ruthenium (Ru) and ionomer.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Ionomer: The ionomer comprises a liquid copolymer of tetrafluoroethylene and perfluorovinylethersulfonic acid.Preferred Substrate: The substrate is membrane, preferably PSSA-PVDF (polystyrene sulfonic acid and poly(vinylidene difluoride)) membrane or a backing, preferably carbon paper.Preferred Condition: The membrane is bonded to the electrode at more than 180degreesC.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Process: The process further involves adding a membrane plasticizer which is a high boiling solvent, preferably N,N dimethyl acetamide, to the mixture. The surface of the membrane is roughened before applying the catalyst ink.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Electrodes: Voltage applying electrode(s) includes material such as aluminum, copper, silver, iron, palladium, conductive metal oxides of above metals, tin oxide, zinc oxide and/or indium thin oxide. Electrode(s) (I) and (II) includes groove(s) comprising conductive metal such as nickel, copper and/or silver, in the front and back surface of the semiconductor substrate respectively.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Module: The module of solar cell further comprises metal plate between dielectric plate and second copolymer plate. The semiconductor layer of conductivity type (B) is electrically connected to electrode(s) (II) formed on the surface (II) of the semiconductor substrate.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Organic Filler: OGF is formed by (emulsion or soap free) polymerization method. The OGF is a core shell emulsion with core part consisting of a cross linked polymer and shell part consisting of polymer containing epoxy, acryl or methacrylic group. The OGF is olefin, nylon or aramid group fiber. OGF is a spherical polymer particle with mean particle diameter 0.02-1.0 mum, containing a polar group like nitro, carboxy or sulfone on its surface. The OGF is an organic synthesis short fiber of length 0.5-2 mm. 1-20 weight percent (wt.%), preferably 3-25 wt.% of OGF is present in the electrolyte. EXAMPLE - An anode formed by mixing manganese dioxide, graphite powder, polytetrafluoroethylene, carboxymethylcellulose, polyacrylonitrile and water in a weight ratio of 65:5:7:5:3:15. was coated on aluminum foil, dried, pressed and heat treated. A cathode was formed by using foil-like lithium-aluminum alloy. Polymeric spherical particle of 0.1 mum mean particle diameter used sulfonic acid on soap free polymer surface like styrene and divinylbenzene and coated the sulfone group on OGF surface. (Ethylene and propylene) carbonate, polyacrylonitrile-methyl acrylate copolymer (95:5 weight ratios) and LiPF6 were mixed in a weight ratio of 5:15:8:45:27 at 80degreesC and casted on a glass plate and hardened to form 65 mm thick polymeric gel electrolyte. The laminate and lead wire were externally pulled out of the polymeric gel electrolyte having cathode on both sides of anode. A battery was formed using the electrolyte. A comparative sample was taken without mixing organic filler polymer spherical particle. Charging and discharging test were performed. Exterior changes in the battery were observed leaving for 3 days after 100 cycles at 95degreesC which showed improved heat resistance, no short circuit and no change in the battery shape when compared with battery without filler.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Adhesive: The adhesive is an acrylic type adhesive. EXAMPLE - No suitable example.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The porous film contains a polymer, at least part of which is gelled by immersion in the liquid electrolyte into a solid electrolyte.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Components: The transparent material is glass, clear plastic or plexiglass.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Device: The transparent material which is opaque to infrared energy is a multilayer structure comprising layer(s) of wire mesh. It is equal in surface area to the base. The product of the height and the distance from the base's center remains constant. The directing vanes are located at the outside periphery of the base and at any distance from the inside periphery of the transparent material's circular aperture. The power plant further comprises a centrally located rigid support with a wind driven turbine(s) above the transparent material's aperture.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Components: The base is asphalt, crushed coal, new/used automobile tires, or other light absorbing material.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CERAMICS AND GLASS - Preferred Components: The transparent material is glass, clear plastic or plexiglass.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Properties: The pressure pad of electrochemical cell has gradient of porosity and is compatible with electrochemical cell. The pressure pad maintains uniform pressure on high pressure flow field and functions under pressure exceeding 2000 psi, preferable 5000 psi. Preferred Structure: The pad comprises porous layer(s) of conductive material interwoven with elastomers.Preferred Process: A high pressure electrochemical cell is operated by introducing HPF having pressure greater than 100 psi into a high pressure flow field which is in contact with pressure pad. The HPF is subsequently reacted on HPE to form ions. The HPE is adjacent to and in fluid communication with the high pressure flow field. The ions formed are migrated to LPE through membrane and a LPF is formed at LPE. The LPF formed is then passed through a low pressure flow field. The high pressure electrochemical cell is operated at pressure greater than 500 psi, preferably 5000 psi. Alternatively, a HPF(I) is introduced to high pressure flow field and a portion of the fluid is migrated to LPE through a membrane. The HPF is reacted on LPE and ions are formed. The ions formed are migrated to HPE through the membrane and HPF(II) is formed on HPE which is passed through high pressure flow field.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Compounds: The electrically conductive material is steel, nickel, cobalt, carbon, refractory metal, precious metal and/or carbon. The elastomers is fluorosilicon and/or fluoroelastomer.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Solvent: The solvent contains ethylene carbonate, diethyl carbonate and vinylene carbonate in a concentration = 0.1-3 vol %.Preferred Solute: The solute is a fluorine containing compound.Preferred Electrolyte: The polymer electrolyte has a polyethylene oxide chain.Preferred Electrodes: The battery contains a carbon or metal oxide electrode. EXAMPLE - A positive electrode was made from LiCoO2, carbon and polyvinylidene fluoride mixed with 5 wt.% of polystyrene polyethylene oxide copolymer based on the electrode. This was mixed with N-methyl- 2-pyrrolidone to form a slurry, which was applied to aluminium foil and compressed and vacuum heat treated to form a disk like positive electrode. A negative electrode was fabricated from graphite powder and polyvinylidene fluoride (95:5) and 5 wt.% of polystyrene polyethylene oxide copolymer This was mixed with N-methyl- 2-pyrrolidone to form a slurry, which was applied to aluminium foil and compressed and vacuum heat treated to form a disk like negative electrode. A polymer electrolyte was formed by forming a sheet of polystyrene polyethylene oxide copolymer and an electrolyte solution of 1 mol/liter LiPF6 in 4:6 v/v vinylene carbonate to diethyl carbonate ratio.    The electrolyte was impregnated into the sheet of polymer in a weight ratio = 1:1 so that the sheet was gelated. When stored at 60 degrees C for 20 days. The battery had retained 88.1% of its capacity prior to treatment. In a comparative example in which the vinylene carbonate was replaced with ethylene carbonate only 68.3% of capacity was retained after storage at 60 degrees C for 20 days.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Material: The insulating material is a hard foam, preferably a polyurethane foam.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - The fluorine-based non-ionic surface active agent has a concentration of 0.001-0.1 wt.%.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The silicone oil has a concentration of 0.002-2 wt.%.
Preferred Carrier: The plate shaped carrier comprises polyethylene or polyvinyl chloride (PVC). It is made by vacuum moldi
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Component: The absorbent also consists of particles of porous polymer(s) comprising polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyurethane, pulp, cellulose, cork and/or wood powder. The mesoporous molecular sieves can also be made of polymers. The polymer binder includes copolymer(s) of polyvinylidene fluoride, vinylidene fluoride and hexafluoropropylene, copolymer(s) of vinylidene fluoride and maleic anhydride, polyvinylchloride, polymethyl(meth)acrylate, cellulose triacetate, polyurethane, polysulfone, polyether, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyethylene oxide, polyisobutylene, polybutylidene, polyvinylalcohol, polyacrylonitrile, polyimide, polyvinyl formal, acrylonitrilebutyldiene rubber, ethylene-propylene-diene monomer, tetraethyleneglycol diacrylate, polydimethylsiloxane, polycarbonate, silicon polymer and/or their copolymer.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Component: The liquid electrolyte comprises lithium salt(s), preferably LiClO4 (lithium perchlorate), LiBF4, LiPF6, LiAsF6, LiSCN, LiCF3SO3, LiN(CF3SO2)2 and/or LiC(CF3SO2)3. The absorbent comprises particles of mineral(s) comprising clay, paragonite, montmorillonite and/or mica; particles of synthetic oxide compound(s) comprising zeolite, porous silica and/or porous alumina; and/or mesoporous molecular sieves with 2-30 nm pore diameter made of oxide compounds.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Component: The liquid electrolyte also includes solvent(s) comprising 0.5-2M ethylene carbonate, propylene carbonate, dimethylcarbonate, diethylcarbonate, ethylmethyl carbonate, gamma-butyrolactone, 1,3-dioxane, tetrahydrofuran, 2-methyltetrahydrofuran, dimethylsulfoxide, sulfolane, N,N-dimethylformamide, diglyme, triglyme and/or tetraglyme
EXAMPLE - Glycidol (100 pts. wt.) in methylene chloride (1000 pts. wt.) was stirred with sodium hydroxide (20 pts. wt.) at 20 degrees C for 22 hours before adding methanol to terminate the reaction and evaporation. The product was dissolved in water for passing through an ion exchange resin IRC-76 (RTM) column for purification. The polymer had weight average molecular weight (Mw) = 1100.    A polyelectrolyte was obtained by dissolving the polyglycidol and lithium perchlorate in tetrahydrofuran prior to evaporation, addition of polyethylene glycol dimethacrylate (number of oxyethylene units = 9; 0.2 kg) and methoxy polyethylene glycol monomethacrylate (number of oxyethylene units = 9; 0.2 kg) and azobisisobutyronitrile to a total weight of 1 kg and 1 M lithium perchlorate, and finally crosslinking by heating at 100 degrees C. Conductivity = 0.00015 S/cm; crystallinity = non-crystalline; state at room temperature = solid; and weight reduction accompanying evaporation not more than 0.1%.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The refractive optical element comprises transparent silicone rubber or a fluoropolymer.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred electrolyte: The electrolyte is a lithium salt.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Method: After treatment, the semiconductor material, especially a silicon semiconductor, is heated from ambient temperature to dry the passivation solution, especially to 80-90degreesC. It is then provided with a moisture- and/or gas-tight layer, especially a film and/or glass coating.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: The polyfluorinated compound has side group(s) are derived from a sulfur acid and e.g. is perfluorooctanesulfonic acid.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Composition: A solution containing Nafion (RTM) and 20-50, especially 20-35 vol.% water is suitable. Composition: (disclosed) Nafion (RTM) is a perfluorosulfonic acid polymer with the structure (I); SPECIFIC COMPOUNDS - Specific examples of the polyfluorinated compound are perfluorooctanesulfonic acid and . A specific example of the semiconductor material is silicon.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - The polyelectrolyte is for lithium secondary cells.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - In the polymeric compound, the monovalent group is preferably monovalent hydrocarbyl, or a cyano-substituted monovalent hydrocarbyl and R13Si- group. EXAMPLE - Glycidol (100 pts.wt.) in methylene chloride (10,000 pts.wt.) was stirred with sodium hydroxide (20 pts.wt.) at 20degreesC for 22 hours before adding methanol to terminate the reaction and evaporation. The product was dissolved in water for passing through an ion-exchange resin IRC-76 (RTM) column for purification. Properties of the polymer: weight-average molecular weight = 1100. The polyglycidol (3 pts.wt.) and acrylonitrile (14 pts.wt.) in dioxane (20 pts.wt.) were reacted in the presence of sodium hydroxide (0.16 pt.wt) in water (1 pt.wt.) for 10 hours at 25 degreesC. The reaction mixture was diluted with water (20 pts.wt.) for clean-up by ion-exchange chromatography before further purification by fractionation with acetone and water to give a cyanoethylated polyglycidol (no hydroxyl signal in IR; non-crystalline; highly viscous liquid at room temperature). A composition for polyelectrolytes was obtained by dissolving the above cyanoethylated polyglycidol and lithium perchlorate (1 kg in total) in tetrahydrofuran to contain 1 M lithium perchlorate. A polyelectrolyte was formed after solvent evaporation. Results of the evaluation study were: ion conductivity = 8 x 10-4 S/cm; non-crystalline; liquid at room temperature; and weight reduction accompanying evaporation no more than 0.1%.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Filling: The filling comprises a transparent silicone gel.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Material: The face portion is sealed to the base portion with rubber, which is silicone.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CERAMICS AND GLASS - Preferred Material: The face portion is sealed to the base portion with glass fritting. EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the invention, a flexible mounting strip is attached to the tile. It is configured to receive a fastener for coupling the tile to the roof substructure. The plate assembly includes hole(s) (250) for receiving a fastener to couple the tile to the roof substructure. The cell is flexible to conform and/or coupled to at least one of the inner and interior surfaces. It has electrical lead(s). The tile is configured to allow the lead (248) to extend from the compartment and project from the tile. A bottom surface of the assembly has a downward projection to engage a complementary mounting projection on the structure to retain the tile on the substructure. The base and face portions are separate portions, and the face portion is sealingly attached to the base portion. The inner surface has a recess sized to receive the cell.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Compounds: The polymer contained in the electrolyte, is homopolymer (A) of polyvinylidene fluoride or a mixture of (A) and copolymer (B) of polyvinylidene fluoride polyethylene oxide, polyvinylidene fluoride hexafluoropropylene and/or polyvinylidene fluoride polypropylene oxide. The electrolyte salt is LiPF6 and/or LiN(CF3SO2)2. The negative electrode contains graphite, non-graphitized carbon, lithium or its alloy. The positive electrode contains a material which can carry out doping and dedoping of lithium. Preferred Composition: The concentration of lithium ion in the electrolyte, is 0.7-1.3 mol/kg with respect to non-aqueous solvent. The polymeric mixture contains less than 8 wt.% of polymer (A) having molecular weight of 500000-800000, and (B) having molecular weight of 300000-550000. The amount of polymeric mixture (A+B) in the electrolyte, is 0-40 wt.%.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Compound: The high molecular compound contains copolymer of terminal transformation polyacrylonitrile or triisocyanate having terminal of hydroxyl group, isocyanate, triol compound or (tri)amino group, and compound having isocyanate group. Preferred Solvent: The solvent is ethylene carbonate, propylene carbonate or gamma-butyl lactones. Preferred Salt: The electrolyte salt contains LiPF6.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Examples of preferred multifunctional monomer: diethylene glycol diacrylate, triethylene glycol diacrylate, tetraethylene glycol diacrylate, tripropylene glycol diacrylate. Preferred lithium salt: at least one selected from the group consisting of LiPF6, LiBF4, LiCIO4, CF3SO3Li, and (CF3SO2)2NLi. Preferred solvent: contains carbonates. A lithium secondary battery uses the macromolecular solid electrolyte.
EXAMPLE - Typical fluorine resin contains poly tetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), berfluoroalcoxy resin (PFA) consisting of tetrafluoroethylene-berfluoroalkylvinylether copolymer, and a tetrafluoroethylene-berfluoroalkylvinyl-ether-hexafluoropropylene copolymer (EPE).
EXAMPLE - Poly tetrafluoroethylene, berfluoroalkoxy resin formed of a copolymer of tetrafluoroethylene and berfluoroalkylvinylether, tetrafluoroehtyleneethylene-berfluoroalkylvynilether-hexafluoropropylene copolymer, and a tetrafluoroethylene-ethylene or propylene copolymer are used in a fluorine resin sheet.
EXAMPLE - A surface protection sheet (A) has a fundamental structure, as shown in Fig. 1, wherein a coating resin (1) formed of a resin composition where fluorine resin forms a main component of a vehicle, and a resin film (3) with one surface having a deposited film (2) of an inorganic oxide are laminated together.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - The positive collector comprises a punching or lath metal of Al or Al coating material which is 25-60 mum thick.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Metal: The transition metal is gold, platinum, palladium or nickel. EXAMPLE - 6 mm of hexachloro platinate, 1.55 g of Nafion 112 (RTM: perfluoro carbon sulfonic acid), 2.5 g of water, 2.5 ml of ethanol and 13 ml of pentanol were mixed and heated to a temperature below 127 degrees C. Pt4+ was reduced to Pt0 and platinum ultrafine particle included solid polymer electrolyte film was obtained. The electrical conductivity of the obtained solid polymer electrolyte film was 0.138 S/cm.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Component: The aromatic ring is heteroaromatic bonded with at least one hydrocarbon group or halohydrocarbon group. The metal ion carrier portion contains an alkeneoxyether, preferably ethyleneoxy ethers or propyleneoxy ethers, or a thioether. The hydrophobic portion contains at least 7 carbon atoms, at least one terminal hydrocarbon or halohydrocarbon groups.Preferred Method: The metal ion carrier portion is bonded to an aromatic ring of the hydrophobic portion or void of any aromatic ring.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Component: The metal ion carrier portion may also contain a polyether, preferably an alkeneoxy ether polymer. EXAMPLE - 110 ml Triton-X-114 was combined in a vessel with 300 ml anhydrous tetrahydrofuran (THF). 6 g sodium was washed with hexane, dried, and added to the mixture which was then heated under argon atmosphere. 10 g dichloropolyphosphazene was dissolved in 300 ml solvent containing diglyme and THF, and then added to the mixture. The mixture was heated under argon atmosphere for 2 days. The salts were precipitated by multiple water addition and polymer washings. The polymer was centrifuged and dried in vacuum to remove all water. 1 g of the polymer was dissolved in 10 g THF, and provided with 4.6 wt.% lithium boron tetrafluoride (LiBF4) in solution. Lithium metal anode was immersed in the solution to dip coat the anode. It was then dried in vacuum to remove the casting solvent and form a lithium anode coated with a solid polymer electrolyte.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred Method: The module is heated to 480-540degreesC to thermally decompose the polymeric material. An inert atmosphere is provided by providing a housing (62) with a chamber (64) for containing the inert atmosphere. The method further comprises providing a cooling chamber after the heating step; and providing two holders, the first holder (80) supports the module during the heating step and a second (90) supports the solar cell(s) after the cell falls as a result of the heating step. The heating step lasts for at least 15 minutes or at least 1 h. Preferred Component: The module comprises: (i) a metallic frame that separates from the module before the step of removing the backing layer (40); (ii) solar cells interconnected by metallic ribbon that falls to the floor after the heating step. The solar cell comprises a crystalline silicon wafer (44) with two sides, both having electrical contact grids.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: The module further comprises lead. The metallic ribbon is made of copper and is coated with lead or tin. The first holder is made of aluminum. Preferred Method: The method further includes combusting the gaseous decomposition products in a pyrolytic afterburner (78) to give carbon dioxide and water vapor.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Material: The polymeric material comprises ethylene-vinyl-acetate. Preferred Components: The module comprises two polymeric layers (36, 38).    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CERAMICS AND GLASS - Preferred Substrate: The substrate is glass (34) adhered to the polymeric layer where after heating is free of the polymeric material.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Cell: The solar cells are free or polymeric material, metallic ribbon, and lead solder after the heating step.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred encapsulant: The encapsulant is selected from ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, polyisobutylene, polyvinylbutyral and silicone.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Tile: The tile is glass, glass composite, polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polycarbonate (PC) or polyethylene terephthalate (PT).    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Coatings: Coatings comprise metals, oxides or nitrides, titanium dioxide and/or coloring.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred Component: Nanocrystalline injection solar cells are included.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Device: The metal-air cell further includes a gasket (190) separating the anode can and the air cathode; a mask (200) enclosing the anode can and having an open area of 1-5 % and a gas mixing area; and thin film (130) covering the anode can.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Component: The anode can consist of zinc metal or zinc alloy metal. The electrolyte consists of potassium hydroxide. The mask comprises a nickel-plated steel plate.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Component: The absorbent layer and the gasket consist of nylon. The mask also comprises a plastic. The thin film comprises polyester.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Conditions: The predetermined temperature is greater than 210degreesF or less than 150degreesF. The vacuum is greater than 27 in Hg.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred thermosetting resin composition: has blocked carboxylic acid and a blocked epoxy group. The thermosetting resin composition, 1-30 wt.%, is contained in the organic electrolytic solution.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred Dielectric Materials: The dielectric materials include a first dielectric material that is exposed to the discharge space and a second dielectric material that is not. There is a gap between them. The fist dielectric material is Al2O3, and the second is a composite of BN and polytetrafluoroethylene formed side by side. An INDEPENDENT CLAIM is also included for a method of depositing a film using the above apparatus.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred System: The separator and the mixer are unified and heat generated by the separator is provided to the mixer. An alternative system has parts (a) - (c), (d') a mixed liquid generator which generates a mixed liquid of water in pre-reacted gas emitted from the exchanger and a medium whose solidifying point is up to freezing point and boiling point is higher than water, and (e') a generator which generates water vapor from the mixed liquid of the mixed liquid generator.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Fibers: The electrically conductive plate further includes short (less than 1 mm) reinforcement fibers selected from graphite/carbon or cotton. It is graphite powder with particle sizes of 80-325 mesh.Preferred Composition: The material composition further includes 0-5 wt.% carbon black.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Fibers: The reinforcement fibers are polymer.Preferred Binder: The resin binder is vinyl ester.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CERAMICS AND GLASS - Preferred Fibers: The reinforcement fibers are glass.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Plate: The bipolar plate further includes fluorochemical intermediates forming perfluoroalkyl groups on surfaces of the conductive plate.Preferred Composition: The material composition further includes fluorochemical intermediates selected from fluoroalkylacrylates or fluoroalkylolefins.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Property: The density of the electrode is, preferably, 1.4-1.5 g/cm3.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Materials: The fibrous insolubles are contained in a quantity of 0.1 - 50 wt.%. The fibrous insolubles have a structure that a ratio of the length of fiber and the diameter of the fiber satisfies a value 10 - 3000. The fibrous insolubles have a fiber length of 10 microns - 1 cm and a fiber diameter of 0.05 microns - 50 microns.The fibrous insolubles are made of an organic polymer material. The fibrous insolubles are made of a polymer material having a crosslinked structure. The fibrous insolubles swell when immersed in an electrolytic solution. At least one type of matrix polymer is fluorine polymer e.g., vinylidene fluoride or vinylidene fluoride-hexafluoropropylene copolymer.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Battery: The negative electrode contains a material e.g., carbon material to which lithium can be doped and from which lithium can be dedoped. The positive electrode is mainly composed of a composite oxide of lithium and transition metal.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Resin: The olefin-type resin is a high molecular weight polyethylene having a viscosity average molecular weight of 1000000 or more. The gas is carbon dioxide.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Film: The polyester film is polyethylene-2,6-naphthalate film or polyethylene terephthalate film. EXAMPLE - Poly dimethyl siloxane of formula (I) and hydrogenated silane of formula (II) having m,b of 10, a of 100 and n of 2000 were mixed. The mixture was added with 200 ppm of platinum catalyst comprising 0.75 moles of platinum metal in 0.8% toluene solution and a coating liquid was prepared. A biaxially oriented polyethylene terephthalate film having central line average of roughness height of 0.03 microns was coated by coating composition to a thickness of 38 microns at an amount of 6 g/m2. The film was dried and polymerized at 40degreesC. It was found that there was no transfer of silicon from the release layer and the silicone release layer of the model film was found to have central line average of roughness height of 0.029 microns.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The leads may consist of an electrically conductive polymer such as polyaniline.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Layer: The photoactive channel layer includes a conjugated polymer, preferably poly(p-phenylene vinylene) material having a thickness of one to two times the average diameter of nanoparticles, and a dyestuff material. The second photoactive channel layer is poly(2-methoxy-5-(2'-ethyl-hexyloxy)-1,4- phenylene vinylene).    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: The photoactive channel layer includes a semiconductor particulate material that has nanoparticles, preferably titanium dioxide with an average diameter. The two electrode materials are transparent conducting oxides.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CERAMICS AND GLASS - Preferred Material: The substrate material is glass. EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the device, the substrate and the two electrodes are formed from a material which transmits at least a portion of incident light to the photoactive channel layer, preferably from mechanically flexible materials. The device also includes an electrical insulating layer formed on the second electrode (108), third and fourth electrode, and a second photoactive channel layer.
EXAMPLE - In an embodiment of the device, the first contact element is electrically connected to the upper electrode by the first annular contact seat (36). The first annular seat forms a conductive path through the polymer PTC layer and the upper and lower electrodes.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - A porous polymer is a divinyl benzene polymer, a styrene-divinyl benzene copolymer, an alkylstyrene-divinyl benzene copolymer, or a styrene fluoride-divinyl benzene copolymer. EXAMPLE - A catalyst layer is manufactured so a given amount of porous polymer beads, a carbon-platinum catalyst, and a small amount of isopropanol are mixed and kneaded together. A given amount of PTFE suspension slurry is added in the slurry and mixed and dispersed. The paste is applied on a porous electrode substrate and after it is dried and pressed, heat treatment is applied.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Composition: Cyclic olefin type ring-opening polymer is a ring-opening polymer of norbornene group monomer in which the norbornane structure has at least one norbornene group monomer. EXAMPLE - Pellets of hydrogenated 8-methyl tetracyclo dodecene (MTCD) opening homopolymer was extruded from a extruder of 37 mm diameter at a screw rotation speed of 25 rpm, extrusion rate of 50 cm/second, cylinder temperature of 250degreesC and adaptor temperature of 240degreesC, to obtain a sheet of 30 mum thickness containing hydrogenated cyclic olefin type ring-opening polymer. Fluororesin sheet (102) was laminated on the protective sheet to form a multilayered structure. The obtained protective sheet had a Du Pont strength of -4%, all-optical line transmittance change of -1% and dimensional change of -1% which shows that the sheet had excellent weather resistance. The moisture-permeable degree of protective sheet before and after atmospheric exposure test was 0.30 g.mm/24 hrs.m2.atm. The variation rate of moisture-permeable degree in atmospheric exposure test was +20% which shows that the protective sheet had excellent damp proofing property.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Binder: The binder contains preferably regenerated cellulose. The carbon containing layer contains 0.1-10 weight parts of binder for 100 weight part carbon powder. EXAMPLE - (In weight parts) Lithium cobalt dioxide (LiCoO2) (90) as electrode active material and artificial graphite (5) as electrically conductive agent were mixed with N-methyl pyrrolidone solution (5 weight %) containing polyvinylidene fluoride (5) as binder, to form a slurry. It was coated on an aluminum foil to form anode collector and vacuum dried for 2 hours at 150degreesC to produce anode. Regenerated cellulose (average degree of polymerization of 200) was added to lithium chloride/dimethyl acetamide (DMAC) mixed liquor (8 wt.% LiCl) and maintained at 100degreesC for 3 hours to form a solution containing 3.5 wt.% cellulose. Graphite powder (95) mixed with cellulose solution (140) formed a slurry, which was coated to both sides of a copper foil as cathode collector. LiCl and DMAC were removed from collector and vacuum dried to produce cathode. Electrolyte was prepared by mixing lithium phosphorus hexafluoride to ethylene carbonate and dimethyl carbonate and assembled to produce a battery. A porous polypropylene film was used as separator. The battery which was tested for cycle characteristics showed increased durability with only minimal decrease (600 mAh to 595 mAh) in capacitance even after 500 cycles.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred exterior packaging material: The exterior packaging material is formed from a heat-sealing type sheet-like laminated film comprising three layer, viz. an exterior protective layer, an aluminum layer and an innermost laminated heat fused layer. The innermost laminated heat fused layer is formed from any suitable thermoplastic synthetic material, such as, e.g., polyethylene, polypropylene or polyethylene terephthalate.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - IMAGING AND COMMUNICATION - Preferred Powder: The powders have different rates of cure from one another. The higher cure-rate powder is laid down as a first layer, and the lower cure-rate powder as a second layer. One or both powders include pigmentation, and one of the powders is transparent when fused.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Method: The treated copper mesh current collector is further immersed in an aqueous chromic acid solution containing 1-10 g/l of chromate ion for 0.5-1.0 minutes. The copper mesh current collector is subsequently removed and rinsed with water. Preferred Condition: The electrolyte solution is agitated and maintained at or above room temperature.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Compound: The organosulfur compound comprises thiolate(s) or mercaptan functional group(s). It can be 2,5-dimercapto-1,3,4-thiadiazole, or trithiocyanuric acid.Preferred Component: The electrically conductive ingredient(s) can be acetylene black.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Component: The electrically conductive ingredient(s) can be conductive polymer, preferably polyaniline, polythiophene, or polypyrrole having nitrogen, oxygen or sulfur on its repeating units.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Component: The electrically conductive ingredient(s) can be graphite.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Resin: The polyolefin group resin is a polypropylene obtained by graft copolymerization of maleic anhydride and a polyolefin. Preferred Outer Covering: The adhesive layer has thickness of 1/2 or more of the terminal thickness and the water vapor non-permeability layer has a thickness of 20 microns or more. The bag is a gusset bag.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: One mole of Py, one mole of Bpy or one mole of Tri is present for one mole of PEO-CA. The amount of lithium perchlorate added is 0.03 mols/oxyethylene unit of PEO-CA. Preferred Mineral Salt: The mineral salt is lithium perchlorate.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Compounds: The sulfonic acid group is perfluoro carbon sulfonic acid group resin. Preferred Process: A sulfonated agent is used in excess amount to introduce sulfonyl chloride group which is converted into sulfonic acid group by reacting with cross-linking agent containing sulfur. The sulfonated agent is chlorosulfonic acid or flurosulfonic acid.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Solvent: The non-aqueous solvent is a mixture containing 50 wt.% or more, preferably 10-80 wt.% of a non-aqueous solvent of viscosity 1.0 cP or less and a non-aqueous solvent of viscosity above 1.0 cP. The solvent with viscosity 1.0 cP or less is a chain-like carbonate. The non-aqueous solvent whose viscosity is above 1.0 cPs is a cyclic carbonate having dielectric constant of 20 or more.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Composition: The polymer contains 60 mol% or more of methacrylonitrile (MAN) units. The polymeric gel electrolyte comprises 5-50 wt.% of polymeric components. EXAMPLE - Polymethacrylonitrile comprising 100 mol% MAN was obtained by water-based suspension polymerization. 1.5 mols/kg of lithium phosphate (LiPF6) was dissolved in a mixture containing propylene carbonate (PC)/ethylene carbonate (EC)/Dimethyl carbonate (DMC) in the weight ratio of 28/0.0/72.0. To the resulting electrolyte polymethacrylonitrile was added to form a slurry. EC, PC and DMC had a dielectric constant of 90, 65 and 2.8 respectively and a viscosity of 1.9 cP, 2.5 cP and 0.75 cP at 40degreesC respectively. To the slurry was added DMC and 1.0 mols/kg of LiPF6. The resulting mixture containing 10 wt.% of polymeric components was gelled at room temperature for 1 day. A gel like solid electrolyte was obtained whose ionic conductivity was 7.2 mS/cm.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Materials: The electrolyte of the unit cell is a gel-like electrolyte or a solid electrolyte containing a matrix high polymer and lithium salts.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Materials: The negative electrode of the cell is capable of doping and undoping lithium and is preferably a carbon material. The positive electrode of the unit cell contains a compound oxide of lithium and transition metals.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Cell: The electrode terminals are bent on one end face of the wound assembly so as to be flush with a lateral side of the wound assembly. The wound assembly is flat-shaped. The current collectors of the positive and negative electrodes are exposed to the innermost turn of the wound assembly for attachment of the electrode terminal leads to it and the current collectors and electrode terminal leads are covered with the gel like electrolyte or solid electrolyte.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred heat fused layer: The heat fused layer comprises polypropylene or its copolymer containing propylene as monomeric unit. The propylene copolymer preferably contains ethylene as copolymer unit.Preferred electrolyte: The electrolyte is a solid or gel-like electrolyte containing lithium salts and at least 2-30 wt.% high matrix polymer, preferably poly(vinylidene fluoride) or poly(vinylidene -co- hexafluoropropylene).    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred electrolyte: The electrolyte includes a lithium salt, preferably LiPF6 or LiBF4.Preferred negative electrode: The negative electrode of the unit cell contains a carbon material, e.g. pyrocarbon, cokes and graphite, capable of doping/undoping lithium.Preferred positive electrode: The positive electrode of the unit cell contains a compound oxide of lithium and a transition metal, e.g. LiCoO2.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Base Film: The base film consists of resin having melting point higher than thermoplastic resin. Preferred Thermoplastic Resin Film: The thermoplastic resin film is ethylene vinyl acetate resin film containing cross-linking agent. Preferred Method: Another thermoplastic resin film is laminated on non-laminating surface of bilayered base film.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred embodiment: The fuel comprises hydrogen gas. The fuel cell assembly further comprises at least one membrane hydration enhancement zone comprising an uncatalyzed area of the membrane interposed between hydrophilic gas diffusion layers. The membrane hydration enhancement zone comprises deionized water and gas reactant streams directed over opposite sides of the ion-exchange membrane. At least one surface of the membrane is directly adjacent to a flow field plate surface. The reactant stream flows are strategically directed through the enhancement zone to maximize water vapor transfer between the reactant stream flows.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Solvent: The glycol solvent used can be preferably ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, or a polypropylene glycol.Preferred Coolant: The glycol solvent to water ratio in the liquid coolant is 1:1. The liquid coolant has a conductivity of less than 5 microS/cm.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Unit: The ion exchange unit comprises an acidic cation resin or an alkaline anion resin (preferably hydroxyl type 2 strong base anion resin).
Preferred Compound: In (1) and (2) when X = CF3 and R = CH3, C2H5 or CH(CH3)2, A = 3-4C alkylene. The content of the fluorinated ether compound in the non-aqueous solvent is 0.1-70 wt.%. The carbonate ester is 2-5C cyclic carbonate ester and/or 1-5C straight carbonate ester. The electrolyte is at least one compound selected from LiPF6, LiBF4, LiOSO2R1, LiN(SO2R2)(SO2R3), LiC(SO2R4)(SO2R5)SO2)R6 and LiN(SO2OCH2R7)(SO2OCH2R8).R1- R8 = 1-6C perfluoroalkyl group.In (1) and (2) R = 1-3C hydrocarbon, X = 1-3C fluorinated hydrocarbon and n = 1 are most preferable.Preferred Battery: The secondary battery comprises one of the above mentioned non-aqueous electrolytic liquids, a cathode and an anode. The cathode contains a cathode active substance containing Li, an Li-alloy, or one substance selected from carbon material, Sn-oxide, silicon and Ti-oxide which are capable of doping or de-doping Li+. The anode contains an anode active substance containing a complex oxide of Li and a transition metWIDER DISCLOSURE - A secondary battery containing the invented non-aqueous electrolytic liquid.    EXAMPLE - A non-aqueous electrolytic liquid was prepared by dissolving LiPF6 (1 mol) in a non-aqueous solvent (1 liter) obtained by mixing propylene carbonate, dimethyl carbonate and F-containing ether compound (3), in a weight ratio of 15:15:70.    CH3O CH2CH2O CH2CH2F (3).    An anode was prepared by mixing LiCoO2, F-vinylidene and graphite (91:3:6), coating the obtained slurry on an Al-foil, drying and pressing. A secondary battery prepared by using the anode, an Li-cathode and the non-aqueous electrolytic liquid generated 4.4 V. The maximum heat generated at the anode was less than 1 degreesC.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Material: The compressible elastomeric material is foamed butyl rubber, foamed neoprene, silicone foam, silicone sponge rubber or urethane foam.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Cathode: The cathode comprises graphite and the species (A) is a halogen, preferably bromine. The heating source is connected only to the cathode.Preferred Anode: The anode is capable of supplying species (B) to the electrolyte during the intercalation of species (A) and the species (B) is intercalated into graphite during charging of the cell. Species (B) is a group I, group II or group III metal. The species (B) is lithium, Zn++, Cd(OH)2, FeOOH or ZnO. Preferred Electrolyte: The electrolyte is non-aqueous or aqueous electrolyte and contains Li+Br-.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Membrane: The membrane comprises sulfonic acid polymeric ion exchange material which is impermeable to Br3-. The membrane is perfluorotetraethyl perfluoroalkoxysulfonic acid, polyhydrocarbon sulfonic acid, poly aryloxysulfonic acid and polyarylsulfone sulfonic acid.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The solid electrolyte layer is formed using a gel electrolyte of e.g. polyvinylidene fluoride and either a copolymer of polyvinylidene fluoride or hexafluoro polypropylene.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Material: The heat exchanger is of plastics and metal, steel, copper or aluminum coated with plastics.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Polymer: The organic polymer having an alkyl quarternary ammonium salt structure is of formulae (A) and (C).R = a direct bond, -C(O)O- or -C(O)NH-;m = 1-3;n = 1-4;X = counter anion;R2 = a direct bond or CH2;R3 and R4 = each is lower alkyl group.Preferred Composition: The polymer-based electrolyte composition comprises 1 mole of poly(diallyl-dimethyl-ammonium)chloride, 0.2-0.6 mole of butylpyridinium iodide and 0.3-0.5 mole of aluminum hydroxide. The composition further includes a binder.Preferred Method: Step (ii) is cast into a polyester mesh.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Compounds: The nitrogen-containing heterocyclic quarternary ammonium salt is alkylimidazolium salts or alkylpyridinium, preferably methyl or butyl pyridinium salt.Preferred Solvent: The organic solvent is water, nitromethane, or lower alcohol. Preferred Definitions:    X = Cl, Br, or I.    SPECIFIC COMPOUNDS - The butylpyridinium salt is butylpyridinium iodide. The metal hydroxide salt is aluminum hydroxide.    EXAMPLE - A polymer-based electrolyte composition was formed by mixing poly(diallyl-dimethyl-ammonium)chloride, butylpyridinium iodide and of aluminum hydroxide in a solvent. After mixing, the solvent was removed to obtain a solid-like off-white mixture that was then cast into a thin off-white membrane having a thickness of 0.2 mm.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Component: The battery case is provided with electrolyte solution. The battery also includes:(A) a conductive adhesive material filled with the carbon foam electrode and the plate and(B) an insulating layer.Preferred Condition: The porosity of the carbon foam electrode = 10-100 ppi.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Material: The insulating layer comprises an organic material, especially polycarbonate.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: The carbon foam electrode is silicon carbide foam.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The inserter may be of PETG.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - TEXTILES AND PAPER - Preferred Process: The porous viscose thin film is formed on a non-woven fabric containing water repellent polyolefin fiber by impregnating viscose solution into the non-woven fabric or by forming viscose thin film on one surface of the fabric. EXAMPLE - Non-woven fabric of basic weight 40 g/m2 and thickness 150 microns made of core-sheath water repellent polypropylene fiber of fiber diameter 12 microns was immersed in 3% viscose stock solution, impregnated, neutralized in 10% sulfuric acid, washed and dried to obtain viscose thin film of thickness 140 microns. The air permeability and porosity of the film were found to be 15 seconds and 48%, respectively. Viscose thin film was found to excel in alkali resistance as there was no reduction in tensile strength and air permeability when treated with 5% caustic potash aqueous solution.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Condenser: The condenser has a fresnel or prism shape. The condenser is obtained by injection molding or press forming.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CERAMICS AND GLASS - Preferred components: The ceramic object is in the form of a self-supporting unsintered or green strip. The ceramic powder is ZrO2-Y2O3, of particle size 0.01-5 micron. The binder is agarose, the dispersing agent is PVP, and the plasticizer is glycerol, sorbitol, or a mixture of these. A rotary mixer or ball mill is used for homogenization. If the concentration of the slip is so high that it is difficult to mix, the final mixture is homogenized by kneading. The water part of the ceramic slip is heated so that after evaporation of the water on heating the water part is within the range 10 - 60 wt.% as in (2) above. EXAMPLE - A typical ceramic slip for casting contained (wt.%): ceramic powder (30-53), distilled water (30-60), agarose (0.1-8), PVP (0-10), glycerol (0-20), and sorbite (0-2).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Solvent: The organic complexing solvent can be dimethyl ether, ethylmethyl ether, methylpropyl ether, dipropyl ether, methylisopropyl ether, diisopropyl ether, methylbutyl ether, dibutyl ether, methyl t-butyl ether, methylhexyl ether, methyloctyl ether, di-(2-ethylhexyl) ether, or preferably diethyl ether; or tetrahydrofuran, 3-methyltetrahydrofuran, dihydropyran, oxepane, furan, 1,4-dioxepane, oxocane, 1,4-dioxocane, or preferably 1,4-dioxane. The organic complexing solvent can also be a mixture of two organic complexing solvents having a volume ratio of 1:10-10:1, or 1:3-3:1. The lithium salt can be alkylcarboxylates, arylcarboxylates, alkylsulfonates, arylsulfonates, phenolates, amides, fluoroalkylsulfonyl imides, fluoroalkylsulfonyl methides, fluoroalkylsulfonates, formula (i), (ii), or (iii), or preferably lithium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide. Preferred Method: The method further comprises filtering out the un-dissolved solids before crystallizing the lithium salt and the organic complexing agent from the solution. EXAMPLE - Impure lithium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide (59 g) was dissolved in 120 ml diethyl ether. After filtration, the solution was added to dry o-xylene (200 ml) in a round bottom flask heated in an oil bath. As the internal temperature increased from 85-108 degreesC, the distillate was removed and the flasks contents became turbid. With continued heating, the internal temperature was gradually increased to 140 degreesC and, as distillation continued, crystals were formed. Heating was stopped until 135 degreesC. After cooling, the flask was transferred to a glove box and the crystals, the diethyl ether solvate complex of lithium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide, were filtered and washed with hexane. The solvate was dissociated by heating under vacuum at 125 degreesC for 4 hours. 52.9 g lithium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide was obtained ( approximately 90% pure).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred System: The exchange part has a gas supply passage which brings reacted gas and non-reacted gas in opposed flow via the porous material. A cooling mean cools the porous material. The exchange part is arranged in contact with the cell stack. Specifically the single cells are laminated via a separator and a cooling plate where the separator has a gas supply means which opposedly passes the two reaction gases.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Material: The packing material contains ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer, polypropylene or a polyamide.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Arrangement: Separate inlets are provided for supplying aqueous solution containing hydrocarbon and water, and hydrocarbon fuel . A spraying nozzle mixes the aqueous solution and the fuel and is connected selectively. An evaporator is configured in which water vapor is mixed with the fuel to be modified and combustor supplies heat of combustion to the evaporator for evaporation. The fuel to be modified is supplied to the evaporator through an injector (48).
SPECIFIC MATERIALS - The heat carrier comprises e.g. used oil or a silicone oil mixed with graphite.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred System: The second zone has a reflective coating of silver and has a pyramidal configuration. The first zone has a square shape. The solar cells in the immersion medium are coupled together, preferably via gold or gold plated leads or an aluminium bus bar.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred System: The immersion medium is a silicone such as Dow Corning Silicone No.93-500 (RTM).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Components: The epoxy terminated silane comprises a glycidoxy methoxy silane, preferably a glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane, and is present in the curable adhesive composition at most 2 (preferably 1) wt.%. The thin profile battery comprises an outer nickel clad stainless steel surface over which the curable adhesive composition is received. The thin profile battery is a button type battery having a terminal housing member comprising an outer nickel clad stainless steel surface over which the curable adhesive composition is received, and the substrate comprises conductive printed thick film ink over which the curable adhesive composition is received. The epoxy has an effective metal surface wetting concentration of silane to form a cured electrical interconnection having a resistance through metal surface of at most 0. 16 (preferably 0.032) Ohm-cm2. The metal surface wetting concentration of silane in the curable adhesive composition is at most 2 (preferably 1) wt.%.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: The matrix (A) contains a plasticizer, a solvent or a swelling agent. The ionic conductor (C) is soluble in the plasticizer, solvent or swelling agent. (C) is a hygroscopic compound or is a hydrolysis resistant lithium salt. (A) is a crosslinkable addition polymer or condensation resin, preferably an aminoplast, phenoplast, epoxy resin, polyester, polycarbonate or methylmethacrylate resin. (A) is a natural and/or synthetic polymer, preferably a polysaccharide, protein, resin, wax or rubber, optionally halogenated, thermoplastic or thermo elastomer. (B) may be a material that is suitable as a positive or negative electrode material, as an electrochromic material, as a solid electrolyte or as an ionic or electronic semiconductor. (B) is an electrode material and contains 20-80 wt.% carbon black and/or graphite (wrt solid material (B)). (B) is a metal that does not react with lithium and contains a lithium salt. The layer (II) is flexible. (B) is a solid electrolyte and the layer has a thickness, d defined by (1). 200 OMEGA is less than d divide (Sigma ion. A) The laminate (III) contains upper and lower feeder electrodes optionally having a thin plastic layer containing conductive metallic elements or mixture of these elements. The laminate (III) is rolled up. The layer of (I) are pressed onto a substrate. EXAMPLE - A positive electrode was prepared by mixing 0.8 g PVC, 1.2 g dibutylphthalate, 8 g acetone, 3-6 g LiMn2O4 and 0.5-0.75 g carbon. The resulting paste was applied to a substrate and dried.
The number-average molecular weights of compounds (I) and (II) are 160 approximately 100000 and 228 approximately 100000, respectively. The polymeric compound is a copolymer or a polymer alloy of at least one of the compounds represented by (I) and (II), and other monomers, in which the total content of compound (I) and/or (II) is 50 wt% or more. The electrolyte contains at least a polymer of a compound represented by general formula (XX).R1, R2 = H or CH3 ;n = integer between 1 and 10WIDER DISCLOSURE - An electrolyte material, a dimethacrylate ester and a dimethacrylate polymer are compounds represented by general formula (XX).    EXAMPLE - LiBF4 was dissolved in a mixture comprising a macro-monomer represented by general formula (XVIII) having a number-average molecular wt of 1600, ethylene carbonate and gamma-butyrolactone , of which the wt ratio was 21.2 : 34.8 : 44.0, so as to obtain a 1 mol/l LiBF4 solution. A cloth impregnated with this solution was sandwiched with two polyethylene terephthalate films and irradiated with an electric beam so as to obtain a gel electrolyte having a thickness of 150 mum. This gel electrolyte had high Li+ ion mobility. An Li-battery comprising this gel electrolyte could charge/discharge at higher electric current densities.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Composition: The molar ratio of vinylidene fluoride to perfluoro methyl vinyl ether is 98/2-92/8. Preferred Properties: The peeling strength of the complex-type polymer electrolyte film is 0.4 MPa or more and its ionic conductivity at 25degreesC is 2x10-3 S/cm or more, preferably 5x10-4 S/cm. The strength of the complex-type polymer electrolyte film is 300 g or more. The Macmillan number of the porous film is 5 or less.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Electrolyte: The non-aqueous electrolyte is obtained by dissolving lithium salts in a non-aqueous solvent. EXAMPLE - Lithium tetrafluoro borate was dissolved in propylene carbonate-ethylene carbonate solvent to form a non-aqueous electrolyte. 100 weight parts of vinylidene fluoride-perfluoro methyl vinyl ether copolymer was dissolved in the non-aqueous electrolyte. The obtained electrolyte was impregnated into a polyethylene terephthalate film and the film was dried to form electrolyte film. The tensile strength and ionic conductivity of the electrolyte film were 0.92 MPa and 3.3 mS/cm, respectively.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Electrolyte Film: The fluororesin is a polyvinylidene fluoride (PVdF) copolymer containing vinylidene fluoride (VdF). The PVdF copolymer copolymerizes 3-9 mol% of monomers such as perfluoro alkyl vinyl ether, hexafluoro propylene, ethylene trifluoro chloride, tetrafluoro ethylene and/or ethylene. The glass transition temperature of the heat resistant resin is 150degreesC or more. The fluororesin layer with the porous fibril-like resin is provided as a network. The composite thin film is insoluble in the fluororesin. EXAMPLE - 5.3 mol% of perfluoro methyl vinyl ether is copolymerized in dimethyl acetamide (water soluble solvent). 20 wt.% of polyethylene glycol dimethyl ether of molecular weight 500, was added as a water soluble phase separating medium. The fluororesin and the copolymer were added to the mixed solvent, at a weight ratio 5:5. The obtained mixture was coated on a PET film. The coating film was supplied to a water-base coagulation bath with an organic solvent containing 50 wt.% of membranous coagulate. Drying was performed to obtain a bipolar membrane. The membrane was immersed in a non-aqueous electrolyte containing propylene carbonate, ethylene carbonate and 1M LiBF4 and was impregnated, to obtain complex type polymer electrolyte film. Electrolyte impregnation, elasticity, dynamic heat resistance temperature and ionic conductivity of the electrolyte film were evaluated and found to be good.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Properties: The contraction percentage is preferably 5-35%. The rate of opening and mean pore size of the porous film before contraction are 35-60% and 0.02-1 mum, respectively.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Resin: Thermoplastic resin is polyolefin.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Materials: The gasket and the sub-gasket are support structures impregnated with an ion-exchange material, and are made up of thermoplastic polymers e.g., polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or expanded PTFE.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred Apparatus: The electrode is an electrocatalytic element comprising a conductive material, preferably carbon; a catalyst, preferably platinum; and a binder, preferably ion-exchange material. The apparatus further comprises a spacer frame disposed around an outer perimeter of the polymer exchange membrane; and a gas diffusion media disposed over each electrode.
WIDER DISCLOSURE - The sensing node of the CCD stage comprises a floating node selected from a floating diffusion and a floating gate, and further comprises a transfer gate between the floating node and the photogate. An apparatus for periodically resetting a potential of the sensing node to a predetermined potential includes a drain diffusion connected to a drain bias voltage and a reset gate between the floating diffusion and the drain diffusion, the reset gate is connected to a reset control signal. The output transistor is a field effect source follower transistor, the floating diffusion being connected to a gate of the transistor. The readout circuit further includes a double correlated sampling circuit, having an input node connected to the output transistor, which samples the floating diffusion immediately after it has been reset at one capacitor and later at the end of the integration period at another capacitor. The difference between the two capacitors is the signal output, which may be corrected for fixed pattern noise by subtracting from it another difference sensed between the two capacitors while they are temporarily shorted.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The refracting elements are made of acrylic.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Component: An acrylic plastic panel is included.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Ultraviolet Film: The ultraviolet absorbing film is an acrylic polymer.Preferred Substrate: The substrate polymer is polycarbonate, polyester, polyethylene, polynaphthalene or a fluoro polymer. It is adhered to the exposed surface of the protective layer by an adhesive, solvent weld, thermal weld or ultrasonic weld.Preferred Method: The step of adhering comprises gluing or welding.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Stack: The stack further comprises:(a) a pair of end plates on opposite sides of the cell laminate, which apply a compressive force to the respective unit cells of the laminate in a laminating direction;(b) a pair of current collectors that collect electricity of the respective unit cells, each collector having a specific part that pierces the end plate; and(c) a pair of insulating members, each member being interposed between the current collector and the end plate.The inlet manifold has a cross section gradually decreasing towards a downstream. The outlet manifold has a cross section gradually increasing towards a downstream. The inlet and outlet manifolds are respectively arranged on side faces of cell laminate and in parallel to a laminating direction of the respective unit cells. The manifolds are arranged around periphery of cell laminate, so as to bind the respective unit cells and reduce a contact resistance between adjoining unit cells.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred components: The metal substrate is a lead alloy and the bipolar battery is a lead-acid bipolar battery.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred components: The plastic comprises polypropylene having a glass fiber filler.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Materials: The anode element is embedded in a carrier made of inorganic materials, e.g. cement mortar or concrete replacement material. Preferred Arrangement: Channels and/or slots or recesses are embedded in the carrier material or are present in the structure of the carrier, via which electrolytic contact between the anode material and cathode is produced. The channels act as paths for the electrolyte, especially chlorides.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Materials: The anode element is embedded in a carrier made of organic materials, e.g. EP resin or Styrodur.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred Condition: The thickness of the supporting material is at least 60 microns and that of the photovoltaic layer is 30 microns.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Material: The supporting material is polyethylene terephthalate or polyethylene naphthalate.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Component: The photovoltaic layer comprises cadmium telluride.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Cell: The average particle size of the active material and the graphite in the positive electrode is 1-15 microns. The active material is a lithium-containing cobalt oxide.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Process: The solvent is N-methylpyrrolidone. The positive electrode is dried in a tunnel oven at a temperature of 90-120 degrees C.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Materials: The polymer plate material is selected from polysulfone, polyphenylene sulfide, polycarbonate, acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene, glass fiber-filled cross-linked acrylic polyester or a glass fiber-filled aromatic polyester such as polyethylene terephthalate or polybutylene terephthalate.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Panel: The insulation material chemically bonded to the inner surface of the organic coated layer of the core structure is polyurethane foam, mineral or spun rock fiber or polystyrene.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Component: The current collectors and the separator are provided with a pattern of holes which overlaps the holes in the electrode materials. The holes of both patterns are filled with polymeric material. The battery comprises a multilayer stack of layers of the negative electrode, separator and the positive electrode. The surface of the negative electrode facing away from the separator is provided with a resilient foam layer.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Material: The polymeric material is an adhesive, preferably polyethylene.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred material: The cell is metal or aluminum. The heat transfer fluid is water.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred material: The cell is plastic, heat resistant polymer material or chlorinated polyvinylchloride.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred material: The nonexpanding phase change material is paraffin. It has a functional temperature of 33-180degreesF (preferably 80-180degreesF) at 1 atm. The walls of the container comprise divinylcell.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred embodiment: A radiator in communication with the port is provided. The fluid is allowed to flow through the port and to the radiator for the heat to transfer to the fluid.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred device: The photovoltaic device substrate is selected from concrete, wood, treated metal, road pavement, roofing material, and plastic. Preferred method: The materials (ii), (iii) and (iv) are formed by screen printing.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred device: The electroconductive paint contains nickel, silver, copper or mixtures, and the metal strips are silver, copper, or nickel. EXAMPLE - No examples given.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Cover: The cover layer is made form polyvinyl chloride (PVC), thermoplastic polyolefin (especially polyethylene or ethene propene copolymer), especially Eprotop (RTM) or Mechafol (RTM). The cover layer contains reinforcement and has an outer surface (16) with spectrum selective properties, e.g., matte black.Preferred Carrier: The carrier layer comprises polyurethane, polystyrene or mineral wool, and has a fibrous cover, especially made form glass fibres.Preferred Tubes: The tubes are polypropylene.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Recess Formation: The recesses are formed in the carrier layer by milling, injection moulding, or moulding in a mould containing the cover layer. The curable, preferably foaming polyurethane is placed on the tray supporting the cover layer, before a cover is placed over the tray and the plastic is cured, then the finished product is removed.Preferred Welding: The welding head (especially hot air blowing device) is moved along the contact surface, heating the contact surfaces and pressing them together, pressing, fusing and cooling.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The heat exchanger can be molded from polypropylene or glass fiber reinforced polypropylene.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - The heat exchanger terminal can be made from die cast aluminum.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Materials: The membranes are fluorinated membranes (e.g. of Nafion (RTM)), membranes of sulfonated polymers with (partially) aromatic backbones such as polysulfone, polyethersulfone, polyetherketone or polybenzimidazole, or membranes of sulfonated polymers such as polystyrenes. The inert coating of the interconnection structure consists of a polysulfone, polyethersulfone, polyetherketone, polybenzimidazole, partially or perfluorinated polymer (e.g. polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)), polyethylene, polypropylene or polystyrene.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Method: The diacetylene is formed on a (semi) conductor carrier of formula X(N)-L-CC-H (II) or from X(O) with H2N-L-CC-CC-L-NH2.X(O) = oxygen containing planar aromatic;X(N) = formula (IV) or (III) preferably of a phthalocyanine derivative of formula V;X = (fused) benzene;R = OCmH2m+1;m = 1-20 preferably 8-18, especially 12;M = 2H, Mg, Zn, Co, Fe, AlCl, TiO or SnO.The polymerization is 1,4 or 1,2 and done by heating photochemically and/or by ionizing radiation. It is in a closed system and prior to it a top layer is applied to the diacetylene's top. EXAMPLE - Monomer diacetylene A in chloroform was dripped onto a TiO2 substrate at 500 revolutions per minute(5 sec) and at 2000 revolutions per minute(5 sec). The solution was spread and the solvent evaporated. This monomer was then polymerized at 254 nm UV light (0.5-5 hours). The film was 100-1000 nm usually 200-500 nm. It was electrically contacted with a mercury droplet. Under conditions of positive bias no current flowed while under negative bias -0.8 V anodic current of 10-6 Ampere flowed to the TiO2 electrode.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Electrochemical Cell: The concentration of the organic redox shuttle additive in the cell is sufficient to permit the redox shuttle additive to carry all of the charging current when the cell is being overcharged. The organic redox shuttle additive has a diffusion coefficient of at least 2.1x10-8, and has an onset voltage of at least 2.5 volts. The positive and negative electrodes, the electrolyte and additive are each capable of functioning in the cell at an elevated temperature of at least 85degreesC. The negative electrode contains lithium, and the solid polymer electrolyte includes a lithium compound. EXAMPLE - Six test cells were constructed, each having a lithium electrode comprising lithium metal on a stainless steel mesh current collector, a solid polymer electrolyte/separator of approximately 200 psim thickness comprising a 16:1 ratio of polyethylene oxide and lithium trifluoromethane sulphonamide on a tetrafluoroethylene plate, and a positive electrode comprising a mixture of 30 wt % Li2Mn4O9, 10 wt % carbon, 2 wt % Brij dispersant and 58 wt % of a mixture of a 16:1 ratio of PEO and LiTFS. Organic redox shuttle additives of the invention were added to four of the test cells by respectively adding to the solid electrolyte/separators of the cells: 0.2 M 1,3,5-tricyano-benzene, 0.3 M tetracyanodimethane, 0.3 M sodium salt of imidazole and 0.3 M sodium salt of 1,2,4-triazole. The 6 cells were then heated to 85degreesC and cycled at 0.1 mA/cm2 to a 4.0 v charge limit and then discharged down to 2.5 v for 5 cycles, after which five of the six cells were overcharged to 150 % of the normal initial capacity on each subsequent cycle. The redox shuttle additives provided significant and lasting overcharge protection even under extremely adverse conditions.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred oil: The amount of oil in the negative active material = 0.05-1 wt.% and is at least one of a paraffinic, naphthenic, olefinic, aromatic or silicon-based oil. EXAMPLE - A mixture of lead oxide, barium sulfate (1-2% final content), lignin sulfonic acid (0.05-1%) and carbon black (0.05-2%) was dry-mixed and water/sulfuric acid (specific gravity = 1.4) added. To the mixture was added oil and the mixture kneaded to form a paste containing 0.05% oil. This was cured and dried to form a negative plate, which was combined with a positive plate and dilute H2SO4 added and formed in a battery case. This battery has a thermal runaway temperature = 77.5 degrees C compared with a similar battery which contained no added oil, which had a runaway temperature = 67.5 degrees C
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Components: The polymer has a structure in which hydrogen at a polymer terminal of formula (VI) is substituted by a polymerizable double bond, where k1-k3, m2-m3, etc. are as above. The polymer is crosslinked, and is obtained by crosslinking a polymer of formula (VI), e.g. with a urethane bond, or where the crosslinked structure is derived from a (meth)acryloyl group and k1 etc are as above. The ammonium salt is selected from tetraalkylammonium salt having CF3SO3, ClO4, BF4, or PF6 as an anion, ammonium carboxylate, and tetraalkylammonium carboxylate, or ammonium adipate, azelate, or benzoate, gamma-resorcylate, tetramethyl-, ethyl-, or propyl ammonium tetrafluoroborate, hexafluorophosphate, tetraethylammonium hexafluorophosphate, and tetrapropylammonium hexafluorophosphate. EXAMPLE - A mixture containing (g): base polymer (100), obtained by substituting a H atom at a molecular terminal of a polymer VI with an acryloyl group, C4H9O(C2H4O)3C4H9 (500) plasticizer, and LiBF4 as salt (24) was in a 0.5 mm layer on stainless steel. The mixture was cured by electron beam irradiation in a nitrogen atmosphere at an accelerating voltage of 750 keV, exposure 1 Mrad, to give an ion conductive polymer electrolyte sheet of conductivity (mS/cm) 3.0 at 20degreesC and 0.7 at -10degreesC.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Component: Layer (7) consists of an aluminum oxide or silicon oxide layer with a thickness of 30-200 nm, transparent in the visible and near-UV range but absorbing shorter-wavelength UV light. Preferred layer (7) is a layer of SiOx in which the Si/O ratio (x) = 1.3-1.7.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Composition: Sealing layer (4') lies between cell system (2) and barrier layer 6 and preferably consists of ethylene/vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymer. The oxide layer (7) faces the cell system (2). Layer (7) may be in direct contact with the adjacent sealing layer (4') or there may be a primer layer (12) between them, or layer (7) may be enclosed between two layers of plastic film or compound foil (6, 11), at least one of which acts as the barrier layer (6); in this case there may be a layer of adhesive (10) between layers (7) and (11). Suitable materials for the plastic film base for the barrier layer (6) are, e.g. polyethylene terephthalate (PETP), polyvinyl fluoride/PETP compound foil and ethylene/tetrafluoroethylene copolymer. EXAMPLE - A barrier layer (6) was formed by coating ethylene/tetrafluoro-ethylene copolymer (ETFE) film (20 microns thick) with a layer of silicon oxide (SiOx) by vapor-phase deposition, using electron beam irradiation at 10 kV and 220 mA. ETFE film with an oxide coating 320 nm thick showed practically no transparency to UV light with a wavelength of less than 350 nm, combined with significant transmission from 450 nm upwards, rising to 80-95% in the range 550-800 nm. In film of this type, the water vapor permeability was reduced by a factor of about 100 compared with uncoated ETFE film.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The capillary tubes are of polypropylene, polyethylene or polybuten.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Components: The composite heat-absorbing/faceskin laminate comprises a laminate of at least one graphite fiber/resin prepreg layer and the outer heat-dissipating layer comprising a resinous layer containing powdered carbon. The layers contain epoxy or cyanate ester resins. The outer layer contains 1-5 wt.% (preferably 3 wt.%) of powdered carbon and has a textured surface which provides a dull, flat black appearance. The upper laminate (a) comprises an upper insulating film of a heat-resistant polymer (preferably polyimide) and at least one heat-curable prepreg layer comprising graphite fiber and a heat-curable resin.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Components: The honeycomb structure comprises aluminium. EXAMPLE - The preferred method for producing the lower heat dissipation/faceskin laminates comprises placing a textured-surface release layer of fabric coated with Teflon (RTM: polytetrafluoroethylene) of thickness 1-2 mils, e.g. Peel Ply (RTM) on the upper, heated surface of a conventional cure fixture, which can provide a curing temperature of 250-350 degrees F, applying a heat-dissipating base layer of a heat-curable epoxy resin containing 3 wt.% of powdered carbon and then applying prepreg layers, e.g. four layers, comprising semi-cured, self-supporting, thin, tacky prepregs comprising 60% graphite fibers and 40% epoxy resin. The cured laminate is removed from the release surface, which has provided it with a textured, dull, flat-black outer surface, and bonded to the underside of a honeycomb core via an adhesive layer. The upper laminate is formed by placing a high heat-resistant layer or preformed insulation film, e.g. of Kapton (RTM: polyimide) on the cure fixture and applying one or more layers of the above prepregs. The cured upper laminate is then bonded to the upper surface of the honeycomb with an adhesive layer.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred gelling agents: The reversible gelling agent is an oil gelling agent especially 12-hydroxystearic acid and the irreversible gelling agent is a polyalkylene glycol di(meth)acrylate. EXAMPLE - An electrolyte solution was prepared from 36.6 g of ethylene carbonate; 55.6 g of ethylmethyl carbonate; 7.8 g lithium tetrafluoroborate as an electrolyte salt; 0.81 g of 12-hydroxystearic acid (reversible gelling agent); 5.00 g of polyethylene propylene glycol diacrylate (irreversible gelling agent). 0.05 g of 2,2'-azobis-isobutylonitrile (initiator) were mixed with 14.06 g of the resulting electrolyte solution, followed by stirring under heating to 50 degrees C, whereby a uniform transparent solution was obtained. Cooling a thin film of this caused a white gel to be formed, which returned to the transparent solution by heating to 50 degrees C (reversible gelation) The first-stage gel composition was then heated to 90 degrees C for 2 hours and lost its fluidity and became a transparent gel. Cooling to room temperature caused the gel to change to a white gel (second-stage gel composition). When the resulting white second-stage gel composition was heated to 50 degrees C or to 90 degrees C it became transparent again but was not transformed into a solution and still remained in the form of a gel (irreversible gel). At 25 degrees C the final gel had an electrical conductivity = 1.0 x 10 power -3 Scm-1 (2.5 x 10 power -3    Scm-1 without the gelling agents).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Label: The heat-adhesive layer is formed from ethylene-(meth)acrylic acid copolymer, or ethylene-(meth)acrylate copolymer. The label base film is particularly produced with a heat-shrinkable synthetic resin film. Preferred Process: After activation, the label is wound around the object to a full circle until both ends overlap for attachment. EXAMPLE - A label was produced as shown in Figure, with a 30-60 mum polyethylene-terephthalate film as substrate, ink layer of epoxy acrylate with pigment dispersed, and heat-adhesive resin layer of ethylene-acrylic acid copolymer.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Battery: The battery has at least one assembly that is wound about another or stacked on another. The cells, except for any serial connection, are insulated from one another by an insulating layer (45) wound between the electrode layers. The cells are concentric electrochemical cells that are electrically connected in series. Each of the cells has wound layers of a positive electrode, a negative electrode and a polymer electrolyte between the electrode layers. The cells are electrically connected in series by an electrical connector strip between the positive electrode of one cell and the negative electrode of another cell. The battery is preferably rechargeable and primary. The housing is cylindrical or prismatic while the spiral-wound electrode assembly is (non) cylindrical. Preferred Method: The second cell is wound around wound layers of the first cell.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - Preferred Electrodes: The negative electrode includes a lithium intercalatable carbonaceous active material while the positive electrodes include lithiated metal oxide active material. The negative electrodes include a lithium metal or lithium alloy while the positive electrodes include a metal oxide or metal sulfide. At least one of the positive electrodes and the negative electrodes or each of them includes an elongated conductive strip coated on both sides with an active material.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Cell: The support is acicular carbon fibers. A layer of conductive particles is formed between catalyst reaction layer and gas diffusion layer. A part of the layer which consists of the conductive particles penetrates into the gas diffusion layer. The material of the conductive particles is the same or different of the high polymer electrolyte thin film. Specifically the conductive particles are PTFE coated carbon particles. A hydrogen ion diffusion layer is formed on at least either of the catalyst particles in the catalyst reaction layer and the support. Specifically the hydrogen ion diffusion layer is formed by chemically bonding a silane compound to the above surfaces.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - The support is carbon particles having pores of up to 60 Angstroms diameter in an amount of up to 20% based on all pores whose specific area is 600-1200 m2/g. The platinum and ruthenium are supported on the support in an alloyed form. The ruthenium compound is a ruthenium salt.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Alcohol: The alcohol is methyl alcohol or ethyl alcohol. The heating temperature is near the boiling point of the mixed solution to which the alcohol is added.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Component: The metal foil (23) of the photovoltaic element is zinc foil or titanium foil. The layer of semiconductor material (14) comprises a layer of photo-sensitization material (15), particularly a photosensitive dye. The transparent substrate contains a foil of flexible plastic material.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: The semiconductor material (14) is zinc oxide or tin oxide and preferably titanium dioxide.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Material: The plastic material is polyethylene terephthalate (PET).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred method: The substrate is selected from integrated circuits, solar cells, ceramic substrates, and flat panel displays. The reflective layer comprises conductor, semiconductor, or reflector layers. The method further comprises forming a patterned photoresist layer, and etching the reflective layer using the photoresist as an etch mask.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred method: The polyorthoaminophenol is not susceptible to hydrolysis. EXAMPLE - No examples given
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - Preferred Alloy: The alloying element is ruthenium, iron, rhodium, cobalt, molybdenum, nickel or manganese.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Materials: At least 98% of carbon short fibers excepting those of length (Y + 0.1) mm or below satisfy W at least 5X. The fibers also satisfy the relationship Z at least 5X where Z is the average length (mm) of the fibers. The carbon fiber paper is arranged in secondary or random direction.The relationship of diameter D (mum) of the carbon short fibers, tensile strength sigma (MPa) and tensile elasticity ratio E (MPa) satisfy the formula sigma/(E x D) - 0.0005.The carbon short fibers are short fibers of polyacrylonitrile carbon fibers.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The first layer is PTFE or polysulphone. It is filled with perfluorinated ionomer. This is a polytetrafluoroethylene with sulphonated perfluorovinylether side chains. Electrodes comprise carbonized fibers of polymer materials INORGANIC CHEMICALS - The fleece is saturated with 5 molar aqueous sulfuric acid or with concentrated phosphoric acid. The fleece is alternatively saturated with hydrated zirconium phosphate and ammonium hydrogen phosphate.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Component: The cylindrical former (2) acts as the anode current collector. The fuel cell system (1) also includes an outer porous hydrophobic layer to optimize the rate loss of water from the membrane electrode assembly. The hydrogen fuel source comprises one hydrogen store or hydrogen generator. The hydrogen source is provided in a replaceable cartridge. It comprises a metal hydride containing 2 wt.% H2, primary hydride, compressed hydrogen and hydrogen stored in carbon nanofibers. The membrane electrode assembly of the system comprises a catalyst of platinum deposited on a carbon support. The catalyst contains 0.2-1.0 mg of platinum per cm2. The current electrode and the former (2) comprise stainless steel. A fine wire mesh is provided in contact with the interior surface of the cathode current collector.The fuel cell system (1) further comprises an outer shell and a means for ensuring air flow to the fuel cell elements (4).Preferred Method: The method includes capping the ends of the fuel cell for connection to the equipment and coupling the fuel cell to the fuel source (3). It also includes applying the porous hydrophobic layer over the cathode current collector.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Component: The outer layer is chosen from perforated cellulose wrapping, expanded polystyrene or polyamide foam. EXAMPLE - No relevant example given.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The film is made of polyethylene containing 30-40 wt.% silicic acid as hygroscopic material additive.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Cell: Total heat exchange is provided between fuel gas supplied to cathode side and exhausted gas from cathode side. Total heat exchange is provided via high polymer electrolyte thin film having a thin film thickness at most 25 micrometers.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Component: The plenum stabilization material comprises a hydrocarbon compound containing long-chain saturated hydrocarbon molecules. The plenum stabilization material is a compound of waxes (preferably petroleum wax) and thermoplastics. The electrode plates include monopolar and bipolar lead-pasted grids. The bipolar plates include positive and negative electrodes arranged in the same plane. At least one conductor connects the positive and negative electrodes.Preferred Method: The plenum stabilization material fills all free space within the battery case.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: The solvent can be methanol, isopropyl alcohol, or their mixtures. The polyether used can be polyethylene glycol or polypropylene glycol, or their mixtures. The inhibitors used can be alcoholamines, glycols, amides, diketones or their combinations. The solution contains 5-20 wt.% titanium alkoxide, and 0.1-2 wt.% of polyethers, based on the total weight of the solution. The molar ratio of the reaction inhibitor to the titanium alkoxide is 1:1.Preferred Method: Calcining temperature is at 450-500degreesC. The pores in the titanium oxide layer must have an average diameter of 10-400 nanometers. SPECIFIC COMPOUNDS - The titanium alkoxide can be titanium tetraisopropoxide, titanium tetrabutoxide, titanium tetraethoxide, or their combinations.    The inhibitors used can be monoethanolamine, diethanolamine, triethanolamine, ethylene glycols, diethylene glycols, formamide, dimethylamide, acetylamide or acetylacetone.    EXAMPLE - Titanium tetraisopropoxide (15 g) was added to 100 mL of ethanol, followed by the addition of 5 g triethanolamine (a reaction inhibitor) and 0.5 g polyethylene glycol. The resulting solution was coated onto a soda-glass substrate having an indium tin oxide (ITO) coating using a conventional spin coating technique to provide a layer having a thickness of 0.08 microns. The layer-coated substrate was placed in an oven, heated to 450degreesC, and calcined at that temperature for 60 minutes to provide a titanium oxide layer on the substrate. The surface of the resulting layer was examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and the size of the pores was measured using an inter-atomic force microscope (AFM). Various examples were also produced using varying amounts of polyethylene glycols and likewise, examined using AFM. Results showed that the average pore size increased as the molecular weight of polyethylene glycol increased.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Composition: The preferred imidazole ring-containing polymer is a polybenzimdazole (PBI), preferably poly(2,2'-(m-phenylene)- 5-5'-bibenzimidazole) or poly (2,5-benzimidazole). The inorganic acid is preferably phosphoric acid. The polymer is doped with the substituted acid (1 to 10 molecules of acid per repeat unit of the molecular chain of the imidazole ring-containing polymer). The polymer electrolyte is made using a solution blend method in a trifluoroacetic acid solvent. SPECIFIC COMPOUNDS - A preferred acid is diphenyl phosphoric acid.    EXAMPLE - Diphenylphosphoric acid was added (3.24g) to a solution of PBI powder (2g) dissolved in trifluoroacetic acid (20 ml). After standing overnight the solution was cast onto a PTFE sheet and dried, producing a doped PBI membrane. The dopant was stable, not being eliminated under extraction in 1M aqueous methanol at 95 degrees C.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred Substrate: The substrate on which the protective layer is formed is a releasable web carrier (262) such as layer of copper, tin, zinc, aluminum, iron or their combinations or an electrolyte preferably polymeric electrolyte. Preferred Process: The protective layer is formed on the substrate by a physical deposition process or a chemical vapor deposition process. Active metal which is lithium is deposited by evaporation. Another layer of the active metal is formed on the current collector, which is then provided on the first active metal layer of the protective layer, thereby bonding the second active metal layer to the first active metal layer. Preferred Protective Layer: The protective layer has a thickness of about 50 Angstrom to 5 mum preferably 500-2000 Angstrom and has a conductivity of 10-8 to 10-2 (ohm-cm)-1. The protective layer is conductive to lithium ions and it includes one or more of a lithium silicate, lithium borate, lithium aluminate, lithium phosphate, lithium phosphorus oxynitride, lithium silicosulfide, lithium borosulfide, lithium aluminosulfide and lithium phosphosulfide. Preferred Current Collector: The current collector of the partially fabricated battery cell is a metal layer or metallized plastic sheet. The metal is selected from copper, nickel, stainless steel and zinc. The battery comprising the active metal electrode is a lithium-sulfur battery and the battery cell is a lithium-sulfur battery cell.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Gel: The gel or solid electrolyte is selected from polyethers, polyimines, polythioethers, polyphosphazenes and polymer blends, mixtures and their copolymers, preferably a polyalkylene oxide.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Component: The dopant metal is one or more group III or group IV transition metals. The dopant metal is scandium, yttrium, lanthanum, zirconium (preferably), hafnium and/or titanium. It comprises zirconium present as zirconium oxide and/or zirconium nitride. At least a portion of the dopant metal is present as an oxide and as zirconia. A portion of the oxide is at least present as a nanodispersed phase disposed in the remainder of the material.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Component: The cathode of the battery comprises a pressed body of particles of ceramic material together with particles of carbon. The particles of ceramic material have a size of not more than 25 microns. The carbon comprises acetylenic carbon. The electrode comprises a transition metal based ceramic material of formula (I).    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Component: The battery also includes fluoropolymer. Preferred Definition:    M = vanadium;    beta = 0.06;    delta = less than or equal to 2.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Composition: The composition comprises a silicon prepolymer, reactive trimethoxy silyl group-containing monomer, graft initiator (preferably zirconium propionate), and peroxide (preferably benzoyl peroxide or methyl ethyl ketone peroxide).Preferred Monomers: The monomer used can be a methacrylate reactive, amino reactive, or an epoxy reactive monomer. EXAMPLE - No relevant example given.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Method: The catalytic activity of the electrode is enhanced by compulsively decreasing the output voltage of the fuel cell from 0-0.3 V per unit cell. The voltage is intermittently decreased in succession. The wetting condition is given to the electrolyte is given by immersing and boiling the fuel cell in a deionized water or a weakly acidic aqueous solution (especially H2O2-water) and boiling. Alternatively the wetting is given by introducing deionized water or a weakly acidic aqueous solution having a temperature higher than the operating temperature of the fuel cell into the gas supplying path. An alcohol is introduced into a gas supplying path before the deionized water or weakly acidic aqueous solution. Alternatively ion exchange group in the electrolyte is SO3H and the weakly acidic aqueous solution is dilute H2SO4. EXAMPLE - An investigation was conducted on the cell performance obtained by varying the duration of time when output voltage of the cell was compulsively decreased. When a range of compulsively decreased voltage was 0-0.3 V per unit cell, the cell demonstrated almost equivalent performance to the case of using pure hydrogen.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred materials: The label may include a metallized layer deposited on a surface of the film, preferably vapor deposited aluminum.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred materials: The film is a polyvinyl chloride. The label may further comprise an adhesive layer applied to the inner surface of the film. The varnish layer is 0.1 - 2.0 mil thick. The graphics is an ink applied at discrete locations on the outer surface of the film. The edges of the ink contain geometric patterns that complement the varnish patterned edges associated with the rims of the battery. The patterned edges form a saw tooth pattern or a number of dots, lines or crosses form the patterned edges. In (b), the film includes 2 linear ends that extend beyond the rims of the battery, the pattern of varnish overlying these linear ends defining a predetermined area of the linear ends coated with the varnish.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The header pipe can be made of polypropylene.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Oxidant: The oxidant is an oxygen-containing gas. The oxidant is preferably air, nitrous oxide, nitrogen dioxide, nitric oxide, carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, sulfur trioxide or steam and is especially air.Preferred Core: The monolithic ionically conductive core is an oxygen ion conductive ceramic core, a proton conductive polymer core or a proton conductive ceramic core. The oxygen conductive ceramic core is prepared from yttria-doped zirconia, rare earth-doped cerium oxide or rare earth-doped bismuth oxide. The proton conductive ceramic core is prepared from barium cerate, strontium cerate or rare earth cerate. The proton conductive polymer core is prepared from a perfluorinated ionomer. Preferred Composition: Both the electrically conductive coating (serving as the cathode) and the electrically conductive material (55) comprise lanthanum manganite, strontium-doped lanthanum manganite, dispersed noble metal, dispersed noble alloy, carbon or ruthenium oxide. Both the electrically conductive material (serving as the anode) and the electrically conductive material (60) comprise nickel-dispersed doped zirconia, nickel-dispersed yttria-doped zirconia, dispersed noble metal, dispersed noble alloy, carbon or ruthenium oxide.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Fuel: The fuel is hydrogen or a 1-20C hydrocarbyl compound.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Conditions: The monolithic mass and energy transfer cell is heated at 25-90 degreesC.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Components: The compartment(s) fed with the reactants and water coming from the injection point comprises an electrically and thermally conductive reticulated element interposed between the electrodes and the bipolar plates, which distributes the water flow through the whole volume occupied by the gaseous reactants. The cathodic compartment is the only compartment fed with water.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Element: The reticulated element that is deformable by cold-pressing is a metal foam. The metal foam contains nickel.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Reformer: When the burner is fixed to the top of the reformer, each distillation plate is installed on the lower end of the outer tube and inner tube. When the burner is fixed to the bottom of the reformer, the distillation plates are installed on the top end of the outer tube and inner tube. The reformer also has a steam generator in the inner or outer part of the reformer. The reformer can be combined with a fuel cell.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Process: The surface water contact angle of the material is 0-90 degrees by surface treatment, by corona discharge or plasma irradiation. EXAMPLE - A laminated film (A) was obtained by laminating a film having exchange capacity of 0.97 m eq/g and 75 microns thickness, with a copolymer film having exchange capacity of 0.85 m eq/g and 20 microns thickness containing a perfluoro carbon monomer with sulfonyl fluoride groups and tetrafluoro ethylene. The first film was a copolymer of perfluoro carbon monomer with a carboxylic acid methyl ester group and tetrafluoro ethylene. A film B was also formed (exchange capacity 1.05 m eq/g, 25 microns thickness) containing copolymer of perfluoro carbon monomer which has sulfonyl fluoride group and TFE. Polyethylene terephthalate fiber (35 denier, 23 microns size) and PTFE (150 denier, 110 microns size) were used as reinforcing member, and a support web was created. The web of support body was subjected to vacuum in a glass chamber, at 0.1 or less torrs and then argon gas at 0.3 torrs. 14 MHz radiowave was impressed for 5 minutes for plasma treatment. After surface treatment, the water contact angle of web was 85 degrees. The web was laminated with film (B) and laminate film (A) at 220 degrees C. The obtained laminate was soaked in 16.8 g potassium hydroxide, 30 g DMSO, and 70 g pure water. Reaction was carried out for 1 hour at 90 degrees C. The sulfonyl fluoride functional groups were transformed into potassium sulfonate. The material was then soaked in 0.5 N NaOH solution at 85 degrees C for 30 minutes. DC resistance of material was measured and found to be 22.4 mOMEGA/cm2. Fracture strength of medium at tension at 45 degrees vertical and horizontal stretch, was 1.2 kg.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: The alloy preferably comprises 30% or 60% hafnium, 25% or 75% zirconium or 25% or 70% yttrium. The alloy is processed into a thin wire having diameter of 20-100 mum.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Material: The porous material is a hydrophilic resin, metal or ceramic material. The resin is preferably polyolefin group resin. Preferred Properties: The polyolefin group resin has melt index of 0.01-100 g/10 minutes, density of 0.85-0.97 g/cc and mean particle diameter of 5-2000 micron.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Size: The mean particle diameter of graphite in the composite is 10-30 mum. Preferred Process: A raw material comprising (in weight parts) thermosetting resin powder (20-40) having degree of graphitization (P1) of 0.5-0.7, graphite powder (20-40) having mean particle diameter of 10-30 mum and thermosetting resin liquid (50) was molded, hardened and baked under inert atmosphere. Preferred Composition: The glassy carbon graphite composite contains baked organic compound formed in liquid carbonized process.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Process: Trivalent vanadium compound and inorganic acid are reacted at 150-250degreesC. Trivalent vanadium sulfate is solubilized at 80-100degreesC in the presence of sulfuric acid. Vanadium pentaoxide is obtained by combustion of fossil fuel at 420-520degreesC, baking and washing the ashes obtained during combustion during which V2O5 sets as solid compound. SPECIFIC COMPOUNDS - The trivalent vanadium compound obtained by washing the baked ashes in water is ammonium vanadium sulfate.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Conditions: Calcination of baked product, is carried out in the first step of manufacture process, at 300-400degreesC and the obtained trivalent vanadium compound is ammonium vanadium sulfate. The second step of the process is performed at 150-250degreesC. The hydration of vanadium sulfate is carried out at 80-100degreesC in presence of sulfuric acid.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The amount of the amine-based antioxidant is 0.05-1 part by weight per 100 parts by weight of the hydrocarbon-based side chain. The copolymer of the fluorocarbon-based vinyl monomer to the hydrocarbon-based vinyl monomer of formula (I) is new.R1 = F or 1-3C fluoroalkyl;R2 = H or 1-3C alkyl;m = integer of 1 or higher;n = integer of 1 or higher.The hydrocarbon-based side chain of formula (II) is new.R3, R4, R5 = H, or 1-3C alkyl;s = integer of 1 or higher;t = integer of 1 or higher.A fuel cell is formed of a jointing body sandwiched by separators. The jointing body is formed of the solid polyelectrolyte film sandwiched by electrodes and the electrodes.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - The buffer layer material is preferably selected from MgO, ZrO2, Y2O3, CaO, Ce2O3, SrTiO3, BaTiO3, LaAlO3 and NdGaO3.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Process: Current is produced by conversion of mechanical energy from step (i) using a generator and/or by supplying hydrogen from step (ii) to a fuel cell. The environment containing organic material is a thermochemical reactor containing biomass, coal or similar; and is heated using the waste gas from step (i). Heat produced in the process stages is supplied to a heat accumulator. Methanol produced in stage (iii) (b) is supplied to a methanol tank or a fuel cell. Preferred Apparatus: Apparatus (A) or (B) includes a current producing generator driven by the IC engine and a heat accumulator for storing the heat produced in the apparatus. Apparatus (B) additionally includes a methanol storage tank and a fuel cell for producing current from the methanol.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Materials: The reflective sheet is formed of a thin-film polymer (preferably polyimide or polyester). The tether comprises a metal-impregnated polyamide fiber.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Materials: The reflective sheet carries a reflective coating comprising aluminum. The elongate structure is formed of a graphite and fiber composite. EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the invention, the inner spring is a resilient, electrically-conductive, and elongate structure which forms a conduction path away from the reflective sheet. The inner spring is a helical spring which forms a conduction path away from the reflective sheet. The tether is coupled between the panel perimeter and the outer part and the angle is 120 degrees.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Ionic Group: The ionic, conductive functional group is sulfonic acid group or carboxylic acid group.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Process: After irradiation of the electrolytic film with ionizing radiation, the film is subjected to heat treatment for 2 minutes - 1 hour.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The polymer membrane is preferably formed by copolymerization of fluorocarbon-based precursors and ion conductive groups, especially fluoroethene and vinylphosphonic acid.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Process: The water recovered from unreacted air and unreacted hydrogen is supplied to a water tank (3) for circulation.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Process: Water is recovered from unreacted air and unreacted hydrogen and supplied to water tank for circulation.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Apparatus: The apparatus has some cylinders filled with heating gas, the gas is passed to desulfurizer through each heating gas supply path and then to modifier through desulfurization gas supply path. The sulfur concentration in the heating gas along each heating gas supply path or desulfurization supply path is detected. The heating gas is circulated from the heating gas supply path distributed by some cylinders. When the concentration of sulfur group component is beyond a fixed value, supply of the heating gas from the first cylinder to modifier side is stopped by controller and then the heating gas is supplied to second cylinder through heating gas supply path. The sulfur group component detection sensor is a heat ray type semiconductor sensor provided into a gas piping along a supply path. The apparatus has a temperature rise burner (30) below the modifier. The control part controls the heating gas of the cylinder which stopped the supply to the modifier and to circulate through the burner. The cylinder is a cassette cylinder filled with commercial butane as a principal component. The hydrogen manufacturing apparatus is provided in a fuel battery system (40). The hydrogen rich reformed gas produced from the hydrogen manufacturing apparatus, reacts with the fuel battery main body using oxygen in air to generate electricity.
EXAMPLE - A typical fluorine resin sheet of which a solar cell module consists includes polytetrafluoro ethylene (PTFE), belfluoroalkoxyl resin (PFA) consisting of a copolymer of tetrafluoro ethylene and perfluoro alkyl vinyl ether, a tetra fluoroethylene and hexafluoropropylene copolymer (PEP), tetrafluoroethylene-ethylene or propylene copolymer (ETFE), and polychloro trifuloro ethylene resin (PCTFE).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The electrically conductive polymeric materials may be polyaniline, polycations, polyanions or polyzwitterions.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CERAMICS AND GLASS - Preferred Materials: The modifier material changes the water management properties of the structure. The modifier material is spherical or fibrous material based on carbon, glass, silica or ceramics. The gas diffusion substrate comprises two or more modifier materials.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Materials: The porous structure is a woven or non-woven material or is formed from an extruded polymer. The base filler material comprises a mixture of particulate carbon and one or more polymers. The base material comprises a catalyst, other than an electrocatalyst.The electrocatalyst comprises one or more electrocatalytic components and a polymer. SPECIFIC MATERIALS - The modifier material is selected from carbon wool, carbon micro-spheres, glass micro-spheres, quartz wool, silica micro-fibers, colloidal or fumed silica, blown ceramic fibers and zeolites.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred Battery: At least one electrode comprises an electrically conductive substrate (14) which is in electrical contact with the electrically conductive sponge material. The substrate is in the form of a foil, wire, ribbon, cast structure or sheet.The sponge material is in the form of particles attached to the substrate. The sponge material is in the form of a layer of sponge grown on the substrate. At least one of the anode and cathode comprises a set of layers of the electrically conductive sponge material. The electrically conductive sponge material defines dendrites (18).    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Materials: The electrically conductive sponge material includes an element selected from copper, silver, gold, aluminum and combinations of these. The substrate and the electrically conductive sponge are formed of the same material. The substrate includes a metal selected from silver, copper and aluminum.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Properties: The carbon-resin hardened compact has a curvature of 0.5 mm, Shore hardness of 100 or less, flexural elasticity modulus of 20 GPa or less and thickness accuracy of (+/-) 0.05 mm. Preferred Condition: The temperature difference in the metallic mold during molding is controlled within 10degreesC. The hardening is carried out under a pressure of 70 Pa or more.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Compounds: The fluoropolymer (B) is tetrafluoro ethylene polymer.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Silicone Resin: The silicon resin preferably has a viscosity of ten to the part of 3 to ten to the part of 4 poises (25degreesC) and has a thickness of 0.05-1.0 mm.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred Components: The first member has the non-porous layer on the substrate through a separation layer. The first and second members are bonded to each other with positioning the non-porous layer inside to form a multilayer structure, which are then separated. The separation layer is a porous layer (4) formed by anodization of a non-porous region or an ion implantation to form ion implantation layers at 100 nm to 20 microns away from the semiconductor substrate side inside the first epitaxial semiconductor layer.Preferred Materials: The semiconductor substrate is of CZ, MCZ, FZ, epitaxial wafer, a wafer treated with hydrogen annealing or intrinsic gettering wafer with an epitaxial layer on its surface. It can also be a high concentration p-type silicon wafer having a resistivity of 0.001-0.5 Ohms with a boron concentration of 1x1017-1x1020 cm-3. The non-porous layer is a single-crystalline silicon layer.Preferred Process: The first member is prepared by forming the non-porous layer on the porous layer to form a protective film on a pore wall of the porous layer, which is heat treated at 400-600degreesC, to grow the non-porous layer at most20 nm/min containing hydrogen. The members are then bonded to each other to form an insulating layer (6). The porous layer is formed so that a thickness not made porous in the first epitaxial p-type semiconductor layer is 100 nm to 20 microns. Inspection, e.g. surface particle, thickness distribution, defect density, surface shape, or edge inspection, is conducted after surface flattening and/or smoothing treatment of the semiconductor substrate so that the value of n is determined, which is defined by the number of ordered sheets of epitaxial wafer, which is recorded in the computer.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - The fuel cell can operate at above 80degreesC and the membrane can withstand temperatures of 100-120degreesC. The membrane is a BPO4/PEEK composite.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Materials: The compound (I), (III), and (IV) is of the following formula.R18-19 = 1-6C alkyl or 2-6C alkenyl;l, m and n are integers 0-12 and cannot all be 0.R20-23 = 1-6C alkyl or 2-6C alkenyl;o, p, q, r and s = 0-12 and cannot all be 0.R24-27 = 1-6C alkyl or 2-6C alkenyl;t, u, v and w = 0-12 and cannot all be 0.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred Method: The plasma is produced at atmospheric or near-atmospheric pressure by creating first and second gas streams that converge towards one another. An electric discharge is created through the streams to create the plasma. An ionized halogen-containing compound is introduced into the plasma to react with the wafers and etch away the edge portion. The wafers have rectangular shape. Conversion of the wafer into solar cells involves forming a photovoltaic p-n junction and applying contacts to opposite faces of the wafer. The stack of wafers is directed at right angle, and further rotated to expose the edge of the wafers directly and repeatedly to the plasma.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Compounds: The halogen-containing compound is carbon tetrafluoride (CF4), and the plasma comprises fluorine ions.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Method: The mixture is monitored and controlled to maintain 1 vol. % hydrogen. The method further comprises monitoring the concentration of hydrogen in the mixture and adjusting the concentration to provide an adiabatic temperature rise of gas stream of 85 degrees C.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - Preferred Component: The catalyst is a noble metal or metal alloy.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Component: Rear and front contacts are positioned between and connected to at least a portion of the two semiconductors, respectively. The monolithic solar cell comprises a monolithic triple junction solar cell, which includes a third semiconductor.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: The rear contact (16) is molybdenum, aluminum, silver, platinum, zinc oxide or tin oxide. The front contact (30) has a transparent conductive oxide consisting of zinc oxide and tin oxide. The n-i-p or p-i-n amorphous silicon-containing thin film conductor is hydrogenated amorphous silicon, hydrogenated amorphous silicon carbon, or hydrogenated amorphous silicon germanium. The second semiconductor comprises a n-i-p semiconductor having hydrogenated amorphous silicon germanium. The third semiconductor comprises a hydrogenated amorphous silicon germanium.
EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the invention, the evaporator creates a heat exchange relationship between the coolant stream. A second compressor (48) increases the pressure of the steam exiting the compressor. The selective oxidizer includes at least two oxidizer stages (26, 28). The fuel cell power plant further comprises first and second heat exchangers (50, 52) and a reformer burner (106). The first heat exchanger creates a heat exchange relationship between the exhaust of the reformer burner and the steam. The second heat exchanger creates a heat exchange relationship between the exhaust of the reformer burner and the oxidant gas. The water transfer device is a condenser, contact condenser, a contact saturator, or an enthalpy wheel.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Membrane: The cloth is a fluorine reinforced fiber. Preferred Properties: The pressure applications which is isotropic performs heating in a press board. The temporary reinforcing material performs elution by hydrolysis.
EXAMPLE - Terms: 3IPBP = 4,4'-bis(isocyanatophenoxybiphenyl). MPPO = 3-methyl-1-phenyl-3-phosphorene-1-oxide (5% solution in toluene). MDI = 2,4'-methylene diphenyldiisocyanate. Example 1: Solution of 3IPBP 15g, phenylisocyanate 1.29g in toluene 134g and 5% MPPO solution in toluene (0.5g) were polymerized at 120degreesC for 6 hours. Product white polycarbodiimide powder = 12.59g (yield 93.7%). M.pt. = 311degreesC. Peak temperature of crosslinking heat generation = 420degreesC. 5% weight loss temperature in air = 513degreesC. Comparative Example: Solution of MDI 15g and phenylisocyanate 2.14g in toluene 135g was polymerized at 120degreesC for 6 hours. Yield = 12.14g (98.3%). 5% weight loss temperature in air = 448degreesC.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Resin: Seal and photovoltaic cell consists of tetrafluoroethylene ethylene(ETFE) copolymer poly fluoride vinyl resin (PVF), polyvinylidene, fluoride resin (PVDF), poly tetrafluoro ethylene resin (TFE), tetrafluoro ethylene hexafluoride propylene copolymer (FEP), polytrifluoro chloroethylene resin (CTFE). Also polyolefin type resins like ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA), ethylene unsaturated fatty acid copolymers, butyral resin, urethane resin, silicone resin etc.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - Preferred Metallic Foil: Metallic foil is made of oxygen free copper like C1020P. EXAMPLE - The metallic foil with thickness of 100-120 mum and vickers hardness of 60, 80, 120 was used during manufacture of solar battery. Specific resin was coated on the photovoltaic cells to thickness of 50 mum using vacuum lamination apparatus. The module is inspected under dynamic load for usual cycles, which indicates the resistance improvement of photovoltaic cells against bending, even under installation in outdoors.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - Preferred Material: The connector is plate-like stainless steel.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Apparatus: The support comprises a hollow body, a rib (41) arranged within the hollow body, flanges joined to both ends of the hollow body, and a pushing force controller arranged within the hollow body. The connector consists of a music wire where both ends are fixed to the flange of the support. The music wire is alternately wound about hooks formed integral with the upper and lower flanges of the support, and both end portions of the music wire are finally joined to each other.The fastening tool is a bolt (48) joined by a screw to the flange of the support. The pushing force adjuster consists of a dish plate, a leaf spring, or a spiral spring.
EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT the clusters have a diameter of less than 10 nm and the layer has a maximum thickness of 50 nm. The substrate has a surface roughness equal to the thickness of the layer. .
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Process: The process further comprises treating with dilute acid. The organic monomer is an acid precursor. The plasma is a capacitive or inductively coupled RF plasma or microwave plasma with or without an ECR arrangement. The organic monomer is butadiene, toluene, methylmethacrylate, pentafluorostyrene, octafluorocyclobutane or vinylsulfonic acid. An organic or inorganic comonomer is added to the organic monomer. The comonomer is CO2, SO2, hexamethyldisiloxane, divinyltetramethyldisiloxane, hexamethylcyclotrisiloxane or octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CERAMICS AND GLASS - The semiconductor ceramic preferably consists of ZnO, TiO2 or Al2O3.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - The compound semiconductor preferably consists of CdTe, ZnTe, CuI, CuSCN or CdS.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Matrix: The acid polymer matrix is polysulfone, polystyrene, polyether imide, polyphenylene, poly alpha olefin, polycarbonate or a mixture. The polymer may be sufonated polyether ether ketone (SPEEK).    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Acid: The solid acid is heteropolyacid (HPA), tungsophoric acid, molybdophosphoric acid, molybdosilicic acid, zirconium or titanium oxophosphate and sulphate, grafted silica or a mixture. The acid may also be boron phosphate which has been modified to enhance its inert qualities towards water.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Method: The spacer is previously arranged on and fixed to the back plate.Preferred Battery: The set of photoelectric conversion cells are formed in a region within the deposited metal electrode layer's region.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - Preferred Materials: The spacer is formed of aluminum foil. The back electrode of the thin-film photoelectric conversion cell is formed substantially of silver.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Material: The spacer is formed of Teflon.A back sealing resin filler or an organic back protection film of a dark color selected from black, brown and wine red protects the transparent electrode layer, the semiconductor layer and the metal electrode layer of the solar battery.A sealing resin layer and an organic protection film are successively stacked on the inorganic protection film of the thin-film photoelectric conversion cell.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: The semiconductor layer of the solar battery contains silicon as a main component. The inorganic protection film of the thin-film photoelectric conversion cell contains one of gold, platinum, aluminum, titanium, silicon dioxide, aluminum oxide and zinc oxide preferably titanium.The photoelectric conversion unit of semiconductor includes a photoelectric conversion layer formed of hydrogenated amorphous silicon or an alloy thereof, or crystalline silicon.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred Method: The gas maintained with the substrate produces preferably 45 mTorr-cm. The filament is preferably at 2000 degrees C. The substrate is at 425 degrees C and positioned at 0.5-1.5 (preferably) cm in a deposition chamber. The chamber is maintained at 30 mTorr. The gas is maintained to produce 3-50 atomic collisions among the silicon and hydrogen species in a distance to react the free silicon atomic species with free hydrogen species to produce less reactive silicon hydride molecular species before to impact on the substrate.
POLYMER - Preferred Materials: (I) is 4,4'-bis(3-isocyanatophenoxy)biphenyl. A preparation of the polycarbodiimide film comprises molding (I) at a temperature of 140-420degreeEXAMPLE - A solution of 4,4'-bis(3-isocyanatophenoxy)biphenyl (15g, 35.7 mmol), phenyl isocyanate (1.29g, 10.8 mmol) and toluene (134g) at 70degreesC was added with a 5% 3-methyl-1-phenyl-3-phosphorene-1-oxide toluene solution (0.6g).The mixture was polymerized at 120degreesC for 6hr, cooled and filtered. The solid was washed with toluene (300ml) and dried at 80degrees under 13.3kPa and N2 flow overnight to give a polycarbodiimide (12.59g, 93.7% yield) as a white powder. A thermo-resisting resin film was laid on a SUS plate mirror plane finished, an Al spacer (50micron thickness) and the polycarbodiimide (3g) were put on the film and then the resin film and the SUS plate were laid. The assembly was pressed under 20MPa at 320degreesC for 10 minutes to give a polycarbodiimide film (50 plus or minus 4 micron) (yield strength: 243 MPa; breaking strength: 270 MPa; elongation: 43%, JIS K7127).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - A solar battery is formed by sealing a cell for the solar battery, using the sealing film between a clear protective member at its top surface side and a protective member at its bottom surface side.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Method: The gasket is molded to the PEM. A molten material is injected into a mold cavity containing a portion of PEM. The molten material is maintained at a temperature that does not damage the PEM. The molten material is injected onto the opposite sides of the PEM by passing through the other side. An index is formed with the gasket by molding a bead (42). The bead is aligned with a channel in one of the plates. A first catalytic layer is placed between each of the plates and PEM. The portion of upper and lower surfaces is encapsulated with the gasket about the periphery of the PEM.Preferred Cell: The plates have a gasket groove (26) and the gasket is dimensioned to be sealingly received in the gasket groove. The gasket further comprises a structural support having multiple openings. The assembly further comprises a seal strip positioned on the other anode and cathode plates opposite to the gasket channel when the fuel cell is assembled so that the portion of the gasket will contact the PEM and urges the PEM to contact with the seal strip. The gasket has multiple lobes extending from the gasket to contact the membrane when fuel cell is assembled. The membrane has gas diffusion fabric layer (GDL) between the PEM and at inner surface(s).    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Material: The molten material is silicone rubber. The seal strip is a layer of silicone elastomer in 0.005 inches thick.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Aqueous Solution: The acid aqueous solution is sulfuric acid aqueous solution.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Properties: The silica nano tube has average diameter of 1-5 nm and mean length of 10-50 nm.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Compound: The strongly acidic cross-linking group is chosen from bis sulfonyl imide, sulfonyl carbonyl imide, bis carbonyl imide and bis sulfonyl methylene. EXAMPLE - The perfluoro group sulfonyl fluoride film was cross-linked using 20 mol% of acidic cross-linking agent to form polymer electrolyte film. The equivalent weight of the electrolyte film was 1100 g/eq, electric conductivity was 0.070 S/cm and creep resistance at 200degreesC was greater than 24.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: Ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA) contains vinyl acetate of 50 mass% or less preferably 26-30 mass%. Silane coupling agents preferably vinyl trimethoxy silane or gamma-chloro propyl trimethoxy silane at a ratio of below 5 mass parts, preferably below 0.0001-0.02 mass parts, is also added to 100 mass parts of EVA. Photosensitizers like benzoin or benzoin isopropyl ether in the amount below 10 mass parts, is also added to 100 mass parts of EVA.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Components: Solar battery sealing material contains 10-26 mass% preferably 10-20 mass% of ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA) with a crosslinked structure.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Coupling Agent: The ratio of silane coupling agent is below 5 mass part, preferably 0.0001-0.02 mass part, for 100 mass parts of EVA.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Coating Layer: The coating layer (a) can be a heat-expansional graphite seat.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Coating Layer: The coating layer (a) can be a porous resin film permeated by carbon powder.Preferred adhesive layer: The adhesive layer comprises epoxy resin or phenol resin.Preferred Tight Coating Membrane Material: The tight coating membrane material is a chelate resin, preferably Schiff basic chelate resin or oxine chelate resin.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Concentration: The impurities concentration in the sealant is less than 1%. The concentration of chlorine, sulfur and phosphorus in the sealant is 300 ppm or less.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Method: A cross-linking agent is added to graft raw material to carry out three-dimensional cross-linking between graft side chains. SPECIFIC COMPOUNDS - The chain transfer agent is xylene, toluene, benzene, ethyl benzene, isopropyl benzene, cyclohexane, carbon tetrachloride (or) dodecyl mercaptan.    EXAMPLE - (In volume parts) The ethylene-tetrafluoro ethylene copolymer film containing copolymer of carbonized fluorine group vinyl monomer and hydrocarbon group vinyl monomer was irradiated with gamma irradiation at normal temperature in the presence of nitrogen. Divinyl benzene (10) and xylene (30) (chain transfer agents) were added to the irradiated film and mixed to form graft raw material. The mixed raw material was then subjected to graft polymerization for 15 hours and washed using xylene to obtain graft polymerized film. The film was then dried, immersed in a mixed liquor containing chlorosulfonic acid (5) and 1,5-dichloroethane (100) for 1 hour and sulfonated introducing sulfonyl chloride group into the benzene group of grafted styrene side chain. The film was hydrolyzed, treated with 1N hydrochloric acid at 90degreesC and 1N caustic potash, dried and washed with water maintained at 90degreesC to obtain solid polymer electrolyte film. The viscosity of graft raw material before and after formation of polymer film was found to be nearly constant (i.e., 5.80 poise and 6 poise, respectively). The ion exchange capacity and tensile fracture strength of the polymeric film obtained were found to be 1.93 meq/g and 3.1 kg/cm, respectively.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Layer: The conductive adhesive layer is composed of carbon-containing conductive adhesive comprising a carbon powder acting as a conductive filler. The conductive skin part is composed of a carbon-containing composite material comprising a carbon powder acting as conductive filler.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Component: The conductive adhesive and the conductive skin part comprise a resin, which acts as a binder.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Compounds: The group Q1 is preferably of formula (II) or (III).Q21 = a divalent linking group other than methylene;R21-R24 = H or a substituent (optionally connecting to Q21); andm = 0 or 1.(II) is not polymethylene without containing a heteroatom.p = 1-30.The group R2 is preferably of formula (IB).R12 = optionally substituted alkyl or alkenyl.Preparation: The compounds may be prepared by the process described in Liquid Crystals, vol. 21, No. 10, p. 923 (1996).Preferred Liquid Crystal Mixture: The two (or more) compounds (I-1) or (I-2) have Q1 of formula (III) with different p values.Preferred Electrolyte: The electrolyte contains iodine.Preferred Photo-Electrochemical Cell: The semiconductor is particulate and is sensitized with a dye. SPECIFIC COMPOUNDS - 55 compounds are disclosed e.g. (F-2).    EXAMPLE - A mixture of (M-4) (1 g, 3.28 mmol) and M-52 (0.42 g, 1.13 mmol) was refluxed in acetonitrile (10 ml) for 8 hours. The reaction mixture was concentrated and the residue purified by silica gel column chromatography (developing solvent methylene chloride/methanol 20/1). Recrystallization from ethyl acetate gave 1.31 g of (F-2).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Arrangement: A catalyst layer (7, 9) is arranged between the braiding (3) and the layer (5) of ion-conducting material. The catalyst layer (9) is covered by a further braiding (11) made of bundles and/or wires of an electron-conducting material. The catalyst layer (7, 9) is made of a group VIII element, optionally together with activated charcoal or graphite powder. The catalyst layer has hydrophobic additions and/or proton conducting material.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Materials: The ion-conducting material is made of a sulfonated aromatic polyetheretherketone, Nafion, or other polyarylether.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Amount: The amount of platinum supported on the metal oxide carrier is 0.1-10 wt.%. The carrier may also support rhenium as the other metal, particularly in an amount of 0.1-10 wt.%.Preferred Compound: In addition to platinum and rhenium, at least 1 other metal can be applied as well which is chosen from yttrium, calcium, chromium, samarium, cerium, tungsten, niobium, praseodymium, magnesium, molybdenum and lanthanum, in an amount of 0.1-10 wt.%. After supporting the platinum and optionally other metals on the metal oxide carrier, hot-water treatment is performed. SPECIFIC MATERIALS - The metal oxide carrier is zirconia, alumina, titania, silica, silica-magnesia, zeolite, magnesia, niobium oxide, zinc oxide and chromium oxide.    EXAMPLE - Zirconium hydroxide n hydrate (ZrO2.nH2O) was sintered in a stream of 60 l/min air while raising temperature to 500 degrees C over 1 hr. with maintenance at the temperature for a further 1 hr. to give a zirconium oxide carrier for adding aqueous platinum chloride hexahydrate and some water while evaporation over 1 hr. The resulting product was heated at 100 degrees    C for not less than 15 hrs. before pulverization and sintering in an air stream as above. The power was prepared into pellets to support 0.5, 1, 3, 5 and 8 wt.% platinum for use as catalysts in removing carbon monoxide in water gas shift reaction.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Size: The droplet size in the dispersion is less than or equal to 5 (preferably less than or equal to 0.5) microns.Preferred Monomer: The primary monomer is TFE (tetrafluoroethylene) or VF-2 (vinylidene fluoride).Preferred Process: The copolymer is melt processed into a film or sheet form and hydrolyzed using a basic solution to provide the alkali metal cationic form of the ionomer.Preferred Comonomer: The comonomer is PSEPVE (prefluorosulfonate ethoxy propyl vinyl ether). EXAMPLE - Micro Fluidizer (reservoir) was charged with a solution of C-8 (10 g) in demineralized water (100 ml). The fluids were allowed to recycle to mix the surfactant solution with pure demineralized water (50 ml). PSEPVE (perfluoro-sulfonate ethoxy propyl vinyl ether) (75 g) was added to the reservoir and recycled to produce a dispersed PSEPVE emulsions. The PSEPVE emulsion droplet was 238 nm. A white emulsion was obtained. After aging for 2 days the PSEPVE emulsion droplet was 331 nm. After aging for 16 days the emulsion droplet was 410 nm.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Method: The substrate is heated to 120 - 220degreesC when the indium layer is formed under heating or when the formed indium layer is heat-treated. The p-type semiconductor layer (14) is thicker before KCN treatment The metallic film formed by laminating is constituted in such a manner that the thickness of the p-type semiconductor layer (14) after KCN treatment or chemical etching becomes 2 - 10 microns.Preferred Materials: The thin film metal layer (22) is formed of at least one of gold, platinum and palladium.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Fuel Cell: The fuel cell is a proton exchange membrane or solid polymer electrolyte fuel cell, phosphoric acid fuel cell, alkaline fuel cell, solid oxide fuel cell or molten carbonate fuel cell.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Apparatus: The power plant comprises a burner (260) for exhausting and burning excess hydrogen evolved from autothermal reformer (ATR). A fuel supply unit (1) responsive to the burner, supplies hydrocarbon fuel to ATR. A steam producing unit (33) is connected to air supply unit (4) which supplies mixture of air and steam to ATR. A first heat exchanger is provided between the burner and steam producing unit. A second heat exchanger comprises units for increasing and decreasing temperature of the mixture of hydrogen and carrier gas circulated from fuel cell anode section to reformer anode supply region (first path) and vice versa (second path), respectively. A third heat exchanger is provided between the burner and the first path, and a fourth heat exchanger is provided between the burner and air supply unit. A fifth heat exchanger is provided between the second path and a point outside the power plant. A control unit responsive to the burner, which controls the fuel supply unit, is provided in the power plant.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Apparatus: The concentration of carbon monoxide in the gas is reduced by CO transformer (5) after which the gas is supplied to the fuel battery
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Catalyst: Palladium group catalyst is provided in the upstream side of the modifier and rhodium group catalyst is provided in the downstream side. The catalyst shows high activity to the combustion of modified raw material. Preferred Method: At the time of initiation, only air is supplied to the modification catalyst, followed by supply of water vapor and modified raw material, when the temperature of catalyst is beyond a predetermined value, after oxidation. The rise in temperature is caused by the heat generated by oxidizing Pd and Rh catalysts. The catalyst is heated by an electric heater at the time of initiation. The supply of raw material is based on the temperature of the modification catalyst. The exhaust gas from the hydrogen pole of fuel battery (18), is sealed and is circulated, followed by sealing the modified raw material.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Properties: The silicone resin layer has a hardness of 40-70 according to spring formula hardness test JISK 6301 and thickness of 0.05-1 mm.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Method: The conductive composite sheet comprises a metal which tends to form a carbide. EXAMPLE - (In weight percent) Slurry comprising ground graphite powder (70) having average particle diameter conductive composite sheet which comprises laminate integration of non-baked paper making sheet with electrically conductive molding board containing metal sheet or graphite, and has very low electrical resistance and permeability; and (iii) of 5mum, wood pulp (17), phenol resin (bell pearl S-895) having weight average molecular weight of 10000 (13) and water, was used in paper making. Subsequently, a calendering roll was performed to obtain a paper sheet with fabric weight of 115 g/m2 and thickness of 0.2 mm. The paper sheet was laminated to graphite board and pressed for 60 minutes followed by pinching with pressure application of 5 kg/cm2 and baked for 30 minutes at 250degreesC to obtain graphite sheet. The graphite sheet is used as collector sheet or as an inter connector for solid polymeric type fuel batteries. Electric specific resistance and permeability of the graphite sheet was 10 mOMEGAcm and 1x107 cc/cm2/sec/atm respectively.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Composition: The sulfonated aromatic polymer (I) also contains units of formula (2) and/or (3). X=-CO-, Ar1, Ar2=phenylene, naphthalene and/or biphenylene, preferably 1,3- and/or 1,4- phenylene. (I) contains 10-50 mol. % units of formula (1) and (2) and 50-90 mol. % units of formula (3). (I) predominantly comprises units of formula (4). (I) has an ion exchange capacity of 0.5-3.0 (1.0-2.0) meq (-SO3H)/g polymer. The membrane (II) has a protonic conductivity in thepresence of liquid water of 120-350 mS/cm at 80 degreesC (as determined by impedance spectroscopy) (II) also contains a sulfonated, aminated or non-derivatized aromatic polymer, preferably a polyether sulfone, polysulfone, polybenzimidazole or polyetherketone. (II) is 10-150 (20-60) microns thick. -O-Ar1(SO3R)n-C(CH3)2-Ar1-(SO3R)n-O-Ar2-(Y-Ar2) (2)-O-Ar3(SO3R)n-O-Ar2-(Z-Ar2)m- (3)Y,Z = X;Ar3 = Ar1Preferred Process: The solvent is DMF, DMAC, NMP or DMSO and the polymer concentration is 3-30 wt.%. The polymer salt form contains ammonium, Na-, Li-, Na- or K-salts. Residual solvent or salt is removed from the membrane by washing with a suitable medium, preferably a 5% aqueous mineral acid. EXAMPLE - A mixture of poly-(4,4'-hexafluoroisopropylidenedibenzoether-1,4-phenylenecarbonyl-1,4-phenylene) (30.47 g) and concentrated sulfuric acid (600 ml) was heated to 40 degreesC to dissolve the polymer followed by heating to 60 degreesC for 2 hours. The resulting sulfonated polymer was precipitated by the addition of deionized water (1000 ml) followed by comminution, washing with water and drying under vacuum at 100 degreesC. The resulting poly-(2-sulfonic acid -4,4'-hexafluoroisopropylidene-dibenzoether-1,4-phenylenecarbonyl-1,4-phenylene) was stable up to 500 degreesC.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Insoluble Liquid: The water insoluble wax is present on the liquid level of the aqueous solution.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Method: An unit prevents the mixing of water insoluble liquid in the site of introduction of linear conductive base material into the aqueous solution and moves it out of the aqueous solution.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: The silicon powder is the abrasive powder ejected during silicon wafer manufacture or silicon semiconductor element manufacture. The mean particle diameter of silicon powder is 1-50 microns or more.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred film: The clear flexible resin: consists of an ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer resin. The depth is a difference between the topmost portion of the projected portion and the deep most portion of the recessed portion.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred Device: The solar cell further comprises a strongly doped n-type layer which is disposed adjacent to the illuminated surface of the base layer. An anti-reflective coating (114) is disposed adjacent to the strongly doped n-type layer.The solar cell further comprises metal contacts that fire through the anti-reflective coating to reach the strongly doped n-type layer. The metal contacts have a thickness of 1 - 20 microns. A diffusion length of the hole through the base layer is equal to or greater than the thickness of the base layer.The n-type base layer has a resistivity of 5 - 100 Ohm-cm preferably 20 Ohm-cm. The thickness of the n-type base layer is 30 - 200 microns preferably 100 microns.The aluminum alloy layer acts as a self-aligned contact for the non-illuminated surface of the emitter layer.Preferred Method: The n-type base layer is formed using a technique selected from the group consisting of cast silicon crystallized by directional solidification, edge-defined film-fed growth, string ribbon growth, Czochralski, Float-zone, Bridgman and dendritic web growth.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Materials: The strongly doped n-type layer includes phosphorus atoms. The metal contacts include silver and serve as ohmic contacts to the base layer. The aluminum alloy layer is an aluminum-silicon eutectic metal layer.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Reagent: The sulfonation reagent is a sulfur compound preferably, chlorosulfonic acid, oleum, sulfur di- or tri-oxide, which is in the gas phase at the sulfonation temperature. The sulfonation reagent can also be a solution of chlorosulfonic acid and chlorinated hydrocarbon when the sulfonation is carried out in a solution phase.Preferred Concentration: The chlorosulfonic acid in the solution is 0.1-1.5 vol.%. The total concentration of the sulfonic acid groups in the membrane is 0.5-1.5 meq/g.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Compound: The chlorinated hydrocarbon is dichloroethane.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Material: The membrane material is polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyhexafluoropropylene, polychlorotrifluoroethylene, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyvinyl fluoride (PVF), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), and/or their copolymers. It comprises at least two films made of compatible material and placed one on top of the other.Preferred Properties: The membrane material is self-supporting and non-aromatic. The membrane has 0.1-5 meq/g ion exchange capacity and has 5-200 (preferably 30-60) microns thickness. EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the method, irradiation is carried out as ion or gamma radiation with 50-1500 kGy radiation dose. The sulfonation is carried out in a gas or solution phase. Excess sulfonation reagent is removed from the sulfonated polymer membrane by evaporation under reduced or normal atmospheric pressure and/or by washing with one or more solvents under (normal) pressure.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CERAMICS AND GLASS - The metal oxide ceramic material is alumina, chromia or alumina-rich or chromia-rich ceramic.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The clear flexible resin composition: consists of an ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer resin. Preferred clear filler: one or two or more selected from the group consisting of glass beads, a milled fiber, crosslinked polystyrene particles, crosslinked methyl polymethacrylate, and crosslinked silicone particles. A solar battery is formed by sealing a cell for the solar battery, using the sealing film between a clear protective member at its top surface side and a protective member at its bottom surface side. The sealing film is provided between the cell and the protective member at its bottom surface side.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Catalyst: The alkali metal is potassium, cesium, rubidium, sodium or lithium. The alkaline earth metal is barium, calcium, magnesium or strontium. Preferred Carrier Composition: The fire-proof inorganic oxide carrier is alumina, titania, silica or zirconia. The weight ratio of titania and alumina is 0.1/99.9-90/10. Preferred Method: The hydrogen containing gas is obtained by modification reaction or partial oxidation of raw material.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Components: The modifier and modification reaction component contains niobium (Nb) (0.1-3) and/or molybdenum (Mo) (0.1-5) or copper (Cu) (0.1-5).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Layer: The electrolyte layer having a thickness of 10-50 mum is made of doped zirconia (ZrO2), doped ceria (CeO2), doped bismuth oxide (Bi2O3), and/or doped perovskite. The electrolyte is formed as an electrolyte plate made of granule powder, having a size of 20-30 mum. The plate has a thickness of 150-1000 mum and is shaped while being bent downwardly at its opposite two or four sides. EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the invention, the electrode substrate is bent downwardly, and a dense electrolyte layer is coated on the substrate prior to being heat-treated. The cathode and the anode are coated on upper or lower surfaces of the electrolyte, thus forming an electrode support type single cell having an at least triple-layered structure. The single cells are held on separating plate by planar plates or foot bridge plates while removing the gas channels of the same width as those of planar plates or foot bridge plates, forming fuel gas channels. The sealant plate and the insulating plate are sealed at their junction by a sealant at positions around gas manifolds while removing a cross-shaped central portion or the whole of insulating plate, and so oxidizing gas channels between single cells are not individually sealed.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Device: The catalyst for a partial oxidation reaction and the catalyst for a steam reforming reaction are copper-zinc catalysts. The monolith support is made up of 600-1340, preferably 900-3000 cells per 6.45 square centimeters. The ratio of the length of the flow path to the diameter of the cross-section of the flow path is 8-15. The cross-section of the monolith support is made up of a number of hexagons. The monolith support is made of a material having a low thermal conductivity for the region of 2-20% from the supply end and the remainder is made of a material of higher thermal conductivity.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Arrangement: The remover further comprises a cooling unit to cool the catalyst bed upstream of the gas mixing unit, the cooling unit having a channel next to an outer surface of the flow-through pipe through which the cooling medium flows and a heat sink also next to the outer surface of the flow-through pipe. The gas mixing unit is formed of an element that partially blocks the flow-through pipe and juts inwardly from the inner surface of the pipe. The element is a shim annular element.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - TEXTILES AND PAPER - Preferred Fabric: The fabric has at least 70 kgf/cm2 compressive strength. The fabric has at most 50 mOhmcm2 electrical resistance in the thickness direction when held between two copper sheets under 4 kgf/cm2 load. The fabric contains an oriented component with at least 4/9 orientation degree. The average degree of orientation is at least 1/3. The fabric is ordinary woven fabric. The fabric is water-repellent.Preferred Method: A solution of phosphoric acid or phosphate is impregnated into the cellulose fabric. The baking is at 900-3000 degreesC. After baking, the carbon fiber fabric is coated with a water-repellent resin. EXAMPLE - A 0.3 mm thick cotton fabric (made by normal weaving from 200 microns spun yarn of 20 microns fibers) was cut into ten 400 mm square sheets and immersed in a 15 wt.% Al phosphate aqueous solution, to give 5 wt.% impregnation, then placed between black lead sheets, buried in packing corks and baked for 1 week at 900 degreesC in a non-oxidizing atmosphere. Five of the sheets were further baked at 1800 degreesC. The 900 degreesC baked sheets were 0.28 mm thick and 352 mm square, the 1800 degreesC baked sheets were 0.26 mm thick and 348 mm square, and in both cases had the appearance of a green woven fabric. The respective properties were 0.42 and 0.44 g/cm3 density, 73-78 and 92-97 kgf/cm2 compressive strength, 21-23 and 18-20 mOhm.cm layer resistance, 7700-8100 and 4100-4500 cc/cm2/h/mmAq gas permeability, and 0.13-0.15, 0.12-0.14 Ohmcm edgewise resistivity, and at least 1/3 degree or orientation.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Method: The carbon film is obtained by plasma CVD, preferably ECR plasma CVD method. The hydrocarbon gas is methane. Preferred Property: 2theta is determined in the copper potassium alpha X-ray diffraction, by comparing the peak strength of (110) plane which is orientated perpendicular to c axis of graphite layer surface (100) with the peak strength which is orientated to c axial direction (002).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Phenol Resin:The impurity content of the carbon-containing reducer based on liquid phenol resins does not exceed 80 ppm.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Silica: The impurity content of the silicon dioxide is not more than 190 ppm.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred Process: The first plate has a conducting layer (3). It is oriented to contact the coated wires, thus electrically contacting the wires after compression. The plates are fired to improve the adhesion to the coated wires. The coated wires are then precompressed to provide the coating with a locally flat surface.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Materials: The insulating metal wire coating is a fluoroplastic material from fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP), perfluoroalkoxy (PFA), ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE), or polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). The plastic material is Surlyn (RTM: ethylene-acrylic copolymer).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Sealing Material: The sealing material comprises an ionomer or a blend of copolymer and ionomer of ethylene and unsaturated carboxylic acid. The sealing material of solar battery has mean degree of neutralization of 1-30% and optical line transmittance of 90% or more. The storage modulus of the battery is 103 Pa at 150degreesC. EXAMPLE - Ethylene acrylic acid and (ethylene methacrylic acid copolymer) ionomer were extruded into a sheet of width 350 mm and thickness of 0.5 mm. A sealing material for solar battery was produced. The melting point, freezing point and optical wire transmittance of sealing material containing ethylene methacrylic acid copolymer were 92degreesC, 61degreesC and 93%, respectively. The sealing material had good adhesive property. Ts/T
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Process: Lower portion of high temperature part is insulated by a heat insulation layer (I). The side and upper portions of high temperature part is surrounded by the heat insulation layer (II).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Apparatus: The temperature of the reforming catalyst is monitored and is controlled by altering the amount of oxidant gas mixed with the fuel and water. The water feed for fuel reforming feeds air and optionally also steam. The shifting catalyst comprises a platinum group-type catalyst. The temperature of the shifting catalyst is monitored and is controlled by altering the amount of oxidant gas mixed with the reformed gas. The temperature of the purification catalyst is similarly controlled by altering the amount of oxidant gas mixed with the shifted gas. Each of the three catalyst bodies comprises a carrier having a honeycomb, foamed body or corrugated structure carrying the catalyst. Scatter preventing means are located between the different catalysts. They comprise a filter and pressure detectors located upstream and downstream of the filter. A temperature detector may also be located at the filter. EXAMPLE - A mixture of methane (1 mole) and water (2 or more moles) was fed to reforming zone (2) containing platinum-group metal catalyst (2a). The zone was operated at 700 degreesC. The reformed gas was fed, with air (13a), to shifting zone (6) also containing a platinum-group metal catalyst (6a). This zone operated at 200-350 degreesC and reduced the CO level by shift reaction with water. The shifted gas was mixed with more air (13b) and fed to purification zone (10), containing a platinum-group metal oxidizing catalyst (10a), where CO was oxidized and removed. This zone operated at 100-200 degreesC.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Components: The electrolyte tape has manifold regions with openings corresponding to fuel cell internal manifolds. The higher melting temperature carbonate extends to the edges of the electrolyte tape, and has a higher solid content than the lower melting temperature carbonate. It is a physical mixture of carbonates which is not pre-melted to form eutectic composition. It can be formed by increasing an amount of non-eutectic carbonate which remains as powder after a eutectic melting point is achieved and dissolves into a melt with increasing temperature.The lower melting temperature carbonate comprises at least two powders or pre-melt mixture of carbonates of lithium (Li), sodium (Na), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), barium (Ba), magnesium (Mg) or strontium (Sr). Preferred Composition: The physical mixture of carbonates comprises greater than 45 mol% lithium carbonate, with the balance which is carbonates of Na, K, Ca, Ba, Mg or Sr. The higher melting temperature carbonate is a Li/Na carbonate system comprising an amount of Li greater than Na. It preferably comprises 80 mol% lithium carbonate and 20 mol% sodium carbonate.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Components: One elastic seal (17) consists of silicone rubber or a cured hot melt adhesive and the other elastic seal (16) consists of butyl rubber.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Groups: The bridging agent has at least 2 epoxy group or isocyanate group in the molecule. Preferred Concentration: The liquid medium contains 0.001-0.8 mol of bridging unit per unit of basic polymer. Preferred Polymer: The polymer is selected from group containing polybenzimidazoles, polyimidazoles, polyvinylimidazoles, and polybenzbisimidazoles. Preferred Method: The basic polymer is impregnated with strong acid to provide proton conductivity. The basic polymer has a strong acidic repeating unit. EXAMPLE - Polybenzimidazole with intrinsic viscosity 1.1 was dissolved in N,N-dimethylacetamide to yield a resin concentration of 10 weight% (wt.%). Subsequently, 10 mol% of ethylene glycol diglycidylether was added. 65 g of the solution was introduced into stainless cylinder and rotated at 90degreesC for 2 hours to obtain a bridged membrane of polybenzimidazole with cylindrical configuration. The bridged membrane was immersed in 85 wt.% phosphoric acid to yield polymer electrolyte membrane. The membrane was cut into circular pieces and sandwiched by 2 sheets of carbon electrode to form a polymer electrolyte type fuel cell. The electrolyte was hot pressed at 140degreesC with the pressure of 50 kgf/cm2 to yield a single cell for fuel battery. The output of the fuel cell when hydrogen and air was introduced for electricity generation was 300 mW/cm2 at 160degreesC and 0.5 V under 1 atmospheric pressure, and 475 mW/cm2 at 160degreesC and 0.5 V under 3 atmospheric pressure, respectively.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Materials: The H material is hafnia having an index of refraction of 2.10. The L material is silica having an index of refraction of 1.46 measured at 500 nm. The indices of refraction of the three materials H, M, and L are nH, nM, and nL, respectively and the relationship between indices of refraction is defined by the equation, 0.94722 = ((nL)(nM)-(nH2))((nM2)-(nL)(nH2/NM)). EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the invention, the coating comprises a multilayer bandpass filter exhibiting high reflectance at 1250 nm, high transmission from 400-1100 nm, and high reflectance at wavelengths shorter than 400 nm in the near ultraviolet region of the spectrum.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Components: The weight ratio of Pt/C:glycerol:water in the electrocatalyst ink is 1:3:5-1:10:5.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Method: The pre-forming and the embedding steps are performed in stainless steel frame of a predetermined dimension. The hydrolization is carried out in a mixture of 20% sodium hydroxide (NaOH)/methanol solution to convert the perfluorosulfonyl fluoride membrane of the pre-formed sheet into a sodium ion (Na+) form of perfluorosulfonate membrane. The Na+ form of perfluorosulfonate membrane is further converted to a hydrogen ion (H+) by hydrolysis with 0.5 M sulfuric acid (H2SO4) solution. The electrocatalyst is embedded into the sheet at a temperature in which the sheet is partially melted. EXAMPLE - A 20-200 mum particle size distribution of perfluorosulfonyl fluoride copolymer powder was prepared, filled in a stainless steel frame, and hot pressed at 20-250degreesC to give a pre-formed precursor sheet. The catalyst ink was prepared by mixing 1:3:5-1:10:5 Pt/C:gylcerol:water. The catalyst ink was coated to both sides of the sheet, and drying was carried for 1 hour at 100degreesC. The electrocatalyst-coated sheet was hot pressed at 200-250degreesC for 30 minutes to embed the electrocatalyst into the sheet. The electrocatalyst-embedded membrane was boiled in 20% NaOH and methanol at 90degreesC for 7 hours, and washed with deionized water. The perfluorosulfonyl fluoride membrane was transformed into Na+ form, and further converted to H+ form. The MEA fabricated was analyzed. Results showed that the electrocatalyst layers, porous Pt/C agglomerates were uniformly distributed with close contact with each other.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Catalyst: The high activity catalyst is platinum and low activity catalyst is ruthenium. Preferred Apparatus: CO transformer comprises an oxygen sensor for detecting the concentration of oxygen in the gas sent out from transfer line and control part for controlling transformation reaction of CO transformation part A based on the oxygen concentration detected in the oxygen sensor. Oxygen is supplied to CO transformation part A with modified hydrogen from modified hydrogen introduction line. Amount of oxygen supplied to CO transformation part B is detected based on the temperature of that part. The CO transformer further comprises an oxygen consumption regulation unit for adjusting the oxygen contained in CO transformation part A and part of oxygen is supplied to CO transformation part B from modified hydrogen introduction line. The hydrogen generator comprises an outlet for blowing off a part of air to CO transformation part A or B.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Modifier: Alternately, a distributed hole catalyst sheet having corrugated fins on both sides is arranged between combustion catalyst sheets. Each combustion catalyst sheet has porous thin film containing platinum. A flat plate for supplying combustion air and combustion off gas flat plate are configured below and above the distributed hole catalyst sheet. A heat recovery flat plate is configured to exhaust the heat generated due to catalytic combustion. Alternately, a corrugated fin is arranged between carbon monoxide oxidation catalyst sheets containing platinum and ruthenium. The CO oxidation part is divided into two partitions by a heat insulation flat plate which has projection. Many modifying parts are laminated such that modifying catalyst sheet and corrugated fin are alternately arranged. Preferred Constructor: The constructor for performing modification, combustion, CO oxidation and vaporization are laminated. A soft polytetrafluoro ethylene sheet or expanded graphite sheet is placed between each constructor. A gas seal sheet is formed so that the reaction is not impaired.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Resin: Component (A) is either 5-99 wt.% epoxy resin and 1-95 wt.% polyimide resin or 100% polyimide. The epoxy resin is based on a compound having an epoxy equivalent of at least 400. The polyimide is an addition type thermosetting resin, especially a bismaleimide type polyimide.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Filler: The filler is expanded, granular or flaky graphite, preferably in amount 100-600 parts.Preferred Composition: The composition further contains 1-100 parts of carbon and/or glass fibers.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: The resin composition further comprises 0.1-5 parts (per 100 parts of polyimide resin) of p-toluenesulfonic acid, p-xylenesulfonic acid, methyl toluenesulfonate, pyridinium p-toluenesulfonate, pyridinium m-nitrobenzenesulfonate and/or methylhydrazinium sulfate EXAMPLE - 25 Weight parts molten polyimide resin (BANI-X (RTM) an addition-type thermosetting polyimide derived from a nadic acid-type imide monomer having an allylnorbornene skeleton; m. pt. = 40 degreesC; volume resistivity = 9.41 x 1016 ohm.cm; specific gravity = 1.21) were kneaded for 15 minutes with 75 parts of expanded graphite and 1 part of p-toluene sulfonic acid. The kneaded mass was hot pressed (200 degreesC, 30 minutes) into a sheet 100 x 100 x 2 mm. A test piece of the product had volume resistivity = 3 megaohm.cm and bending strength = 307 kgf/cm2. In contrast, when the polyimide was replaced with Novamid 1012C2 (polyamide 6; volume resistivity = 1 x 1015 ohm.cm) the test piece had volume resistivity = 70 megaohm.cm and bending strength = 187 kgf/cm2.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred System: The steam reformer includes an oxidizing section in which carbon monoxide is converted to carbon dioxide with pressurized oxidizing gas supplied from the second compressor by way of a flow control system, especially comprising a three-way valve or two flow-controlling valves. The system can also include a third compressor for supplying pressurized oxidizing gas to the reforming section of the steam reformer. The system can also include a device for measuring the pressure difference between the fuel gas and oxidizing gas supplied to the fuel cell.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Features: The hydrogen generating unit comprises a conversion reactor unit (6) followed by a water gas shift reactor unit (7) and the water supply system comprises respective water feed lines (10a, b, c) for these units and/or the fuel cell cathodes (4). The hydrogen generating unit also has a hydrogen separation membrane (7b) for selective separation of the hydrogen product gas from residual gas, the water recovery system having a condenser (13) for condensing water from this residual gas and the conversion reactor water feed line (10a) being heated by passage through this condenser (13). The water recovery system also has a second condenser (15) for condensing water from the cathode off-gas, a common cooling circuit being provided for both condensers (13, 15). A first heat exchanger (20) is provided for heat exchange between the separated hydrogen product gas and the residual gas downstream of the first condenser (13) and/or a second heat exchanger (23) is provided for heat exchange between the separated hydrogen product gas and the cathode off-gas downstream of the second condenser (15). A residual gas expansion unit (21) is mechanically coupled to a product gas pump unit (22). A mixer unit (24) is provided for dosing anode off-gas into the product gas and/or an anode off-gas line is used to supply anode off-gas into the hydrogen generating unit. A catalytic combustion unit (27) is supplied with the residual gas and the cathode off-gas and is followed by a combustion exhaust gas expansion unit (28) which is mechanically coupled to a pump unit (29, 30) used for air supply to the fuel cell cathodes (4) and/or to the hydrogen generating unit.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Composition: The reaction is carried out at temperatures greater than 80 degreesC, in a temperature range higher than typically acceptable for such reactions. The preferred monomers are 2,2-bis(3,4-dicarboxyphenyl) hexafluoropropane dianhydride (I), bis(4-aminophenyl) sulfone (II), and bis(4-(3-aminophenoxy)phenol) sulfone (III). The preferred ratio of (II):(III) = 85:15 to 65:35 by weight. The preferred organic polar solvents are dimethylacetamide (IV), dimethylformamide, tetrahydrofuran, dioxolane, or mixtures of them. The coating or film demonstrates at least 70% transmittance at 440 nm for a film or coating thickness of 10-30nm, and a yellowness index of less than 40. EXAMPLE - Diamines (II) and (III) at a ratio of 70:30 were charged into a reactor along with solvent (IV). The mix was agitated under a nitrogen atmosphere at a reflux temperature of 30degreesC until the diamine fully dissolved. (I) was added at approximately 1:1 molar ratio with (II) and (III) and the reaction was heated to 90degreesC and maintained there for 60 minutes forming a polyamic solution, which was cooled and stored at about 0degreesC. The solution was degassed and then coated onto a release coated glass plate to a thickness of 30 mum. The plate was placed in an oven at 120degreesC for 60 minutes, then 200degreesC for 10 minutes, 250degreesC for 60 minutes, and finally 300degreesC for 30 minutes. Once the process was complete the plate was cooled and the film peeled off. The film had 94% transmittance, a yellowness index of 4, and passed the toughness test.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CERAMICS AND GLASS - Preferred Material: The porous wash coat layer is alumina, silica, silica-alumina, ceria, silicon carbide, or other high surface area ceramic material. The monolithic member is made from ceramic (preferably silicon carbide).    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - Preferred Material: The monolithic member can be made of aluminum-steel alloy, nickel alloy, or stainless steel.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: The monolithic member can also be made of aluminum, carbon, or graphite. The catalyst is copper, zinc, nickel, platinum, rhodium, palladium, or a noble metal). EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the invention, the bed is bonded to an adjacent heat transfer member, which can be a plate or a coolant conduit, to establish a high heat transfer between the bed and the heat transfer member.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Materials: The catalyst has a support comprising titanium oxide which has basic spots on the surface and has composition where platinum is supported on the support. A rare earth metal selected from lanthanum and/or cerium may be added to the platinum. The platinum and rare earth metal are present in amount of 0.1-3 weight% and 0.3-3 weight% respectively, on the titanium oxide support. Alternatively, palladium is used instead of platinum and its use amount is 0.5-5 weight%. A cooling coil for cooling the catalyst is disposed in the reaction vessel. The reaction vessel has many compartments opposing to gas inlet to gas outlet with many gas permeable plates. The catalyst and cooling coil are arranged in the compartment spaces.Preferred System: A desulfurizer is arranged on the upstream side of the reformer. A carbon monoxide selective oxidizing unit for selectively oxidizing carbon monoxide in the reformed gas is arranged between the reformer and fuel cell.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Materials: The conducting pathways are made of silver, silver alloy, copper or copper alloy. The insulating coating consists of a glass coating containing bismuth and/or zinc. The insulating coating is provided with an electrically conducting layer (11, 12). The glass plates have a thickness of not more than 3.5, preferably 1.8-2.2 mm, and are made of silicate glass, especially soft glass. The electrically conducting layers are made of tin dioxide.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Seal: The seal (13) is made of silicone rubber or hot-setting adhesive.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - Preferred Components: The metallic foil interconnect comprises a superalloy. The superalloy is a metal alloy made of nickel, iron, chromium, and manganese. An end plate (11) is disposed at each end of the stack. Each plate serves as a current collector. The fuel gas channels are perpendicular to the oxidant gas channels. Preferred Properties: The interconnect is 1-10 mils thick. The anode layer has a thickness greater than the cathode layer.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Materials: The metal oxide undercoat is a chemical vapor deposition (CVD) film consisting of tin oxide (SnO2), indium oxide (In2O), titanium dioxide (TiO2) and zinc oxide (ZnO).The metal oxide undercoat has a thickness of 150 - 500 Angstrom. The continuous alkali barrier film has a thickness of 250 - 350 Angstrom. The transparent conductive film has a thickness of 5000 - 10000 Angstrom.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Structure: The film for a functional element is an amorphous silicon film for a solar cell.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Materials: The substrate material is made of sintered metal, conducting ceramic, or titanium oxide modification. The active coating is applied by galvanic deposition, CVD or currentless chemical plating onto the surface of the substrate. Preferred Arrangement: The module has a channel bundle structure with several channels spaced apart in the substrate. The substrate body is cylindrical in shape and has channels extending along it in the longitudinal direction.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred plant: A first reactor stage (1) of the converter reactor provides at least partial conversion of starting material in a hydrogen- and carbon monoxide-containing intermediate product gas. A second reactor stage (2) i.e. membrane reactor provides a water gas balance reaction.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Process: A selective layer is applied to the semiconductor layer of the cell through which solar radiation reflects in a photovoltaic region, the amount of heat radiation however being absorbed. Preferred Materials: The cell is made of Si, CdTe, CuInSe2 or GaAs, or a polycrystalline silicon film. A heat conducting device is located below the cell and is made of Al, galvanized steel sheet or Al-coated steel sheet.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Materials: The upper cover is made of acrylic, Plexiglass, Makrolon or polycarbonate.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred plasma: The plasma is preferably obtained by high-frequency inert gas spattering of a mono-, di-, oligo- or polymer target (4), especially of a tetrafluoroethylene mono-, di-, oligo- or polymer or of hexamethyldisiloxane (HMDSO) or a silicone target to give a deposited layer (3) 100nm -1mum thick. The plasma preferably contains azide or sulfonic acid (-SO2-OH) groups generated by the presence of halosulfonic acids, solid azide group-producing compounds or (preferably alkali) metal sulfates or disulfates. When the metal (di)sulfates are used layer (3) can be treated with dilute acid to convert the -SO2-Me groups to sulfonic acid groups.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred plasma: The plasma is preferably obtained by high-frequency inert gas spattering of a mono-, di-, oligo- or polymer target (4), especially of a tetrafluoroethylene mono-, di-, oligo- or polymer or of hexamethyldisiloxane (HMDSO) or a silicone target to give a deposited layer (3) 100 nm-1 mum thick.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - The plasma preferably contains azide or sulfonic acid (-SO2-OH) groups generated by the presence of halosulfonic acids, solid azide group-producing compounds or (preferably alkali) metal sulfates or disulfates. When the metal (di)sulfates are used layer (3) can be treated with dilute acid to convert the -SO2-Me groups to sulfonic acid groups. EXAMPLE - A 100 mum thick sulfonated PTFE membrane had its MeOH diffusion coefficient reduced 8.5-fold from 1.20.10-6 to 1.42.10-7 cm2s-1 by giving it a 370 nm coating by ionized argon-induced plasma polymerization using a PTFE disc-shaped target backed by K disulfate as per the system shown in the drawing below but with KSO3 in the plasma.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Device: The probe is placed in the cathode exhaust line and measures the oxygen partial pressure. The partial pressure of a reaction gas in the process gas line of the stack is used as reference parameter for adjusting the process gas stream.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Fuel Cell: The solvent-containing fluoropolymer is a polymer with fluorine-containing alicyclic structure having polymer units of formula (I), (II), (III) or (V), or (V)-(XIII).R1, R2, R3 = F, or trifluoromethylp = 0-5q = 0-4r = 0 or 1s, t, u = independently 0-5, p+q+r = 1-6, and s+t+u = 1-6.Amount of the fluoropolymer in the collector is 0.001-60%, with respect to the total collector weight. The porous sheet is particularly made from a carbonaceous material, in a thickness of 0.1-1 mm and with porosity of 30-90%.Preferred Process: The treated porous sheet is particularly heated at 100-250degreesC. EXAMPLE - A 2% polymer with polymer units of formula (XI), molecular weight of 100,000 in perfluoro(2-butyltetrahydrofuran)/perfluoro(tributylamine) in 1:1 ratio was used to impregnate a carbon paper at unit area equivalent to 0.6 mg/cm2 before drying at 25degreesC to give a collector. A 40% platinum-on-carbon black catalyst was mixed with a dispersion of resin of CF2=CF2/CF2-CF-O-CF2CF(CF3)-OOCF2CF2SO3H copolymer with ion-exchange capacity of 1.1 meq./g in ethanol/1,3-dichloro-1,1,2,2,3-pentafluoropropane (1:1), with catalyst and ion-exchange weight ratio of 0.75:0.25 (dispersion A). A similar dispersion (B) was also obtained by using a dry resin with ion-exchange capacity of 0.91 meq./g. An electrolytic membrane of perfluorosulfonic acid-type ion-exchange membrane Fremion R membrane (RTM; ion-exchange capacity = 1 meq./g dry resin; dry membrane thickness = 50 mum), with the dispersion (A) applied to the hydrogen electrode side and dispersion (B) to the air electrode side to give catalyst layers (platinum content = 0.5 mg/cm2) on both faces of the membrane, which was assembled into a single cell. Results of the evaluation study were: output voltage, after 10 hrs. = 0.59 V, after 500 hrs. = 0.57 V, and after 1000 hrs. = 0.55 V.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Polymer: The specific surface area of the microparticles are 5-10 m2/g. The fluorocarbon polymer is selected from polytetrafluoroethylene polymers and fluorinated ethylene-propylene polymers. The catalyst ink further comprises a liquid tetrafluoroethylene-perfluorovinyl ether sulfonic acid copolymer as ionomer.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Method: The catalytic material is platinum. The substrate in the electrode is membrane. The surface of the membrane is roughened prior to the application of the catalyst ink. The membrane is roughened by contacting the membrane with an abrasive selected from silicon nitride, boron nitride, silicon carbide, silica and boron carbide. The abrasive has a grit size of 300-400. After applying catalyst ink, the membrane is bonded to at least one electrode. EXAMPLE - 0.032 g of MP-1100 TEFLON (RTM: tetrafluoroethylene), 0.18 g of supported platinum catalyst were combined with 0.4 g of deionized water. 0.72 g of 5% NAFION (RTM: tetrafluoroethylene-perfluorovinyl ether sulfonic acid copolymer) solution was added to water and catalyst mix. The catalyst mix was sonicated in a water bath for 5 minutes to form catalyst ink. The NAFION membrane was roughened on both sides with a 300-400 grit abrasive. The membrane was dried and the catalyst ink was painted on the surface at room temperature. The electrode and obtained membrane were bonded with heat and pressure to form a methanol electrode assembly (MEA). The performance of MEA were tested and the results showed that MEA had improved performance at low air flow rate. The performance of MEA was excellent even at high current density.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - TEXTILES AND PAPER - Preferred Composition: The nickel-coated graphite fibers comprise 10-40 wt.% of the total composition. The nickel-coating represents 45-60% or total weight percent of nickel-coated graphite fibers. At least 50%, preferably 75% of the bonds to ester or amide groups are to carbon atoms which are part of aromatic rings. The binder resin comprises 5-15 wt.% of graphite. 5-80 wt.% of graphite filler comprising graphite fiber is present in the total mixture.Preferred Fiber: The graphite fiber further comprises metal coating, preferably nickel coating. The nickel-coated graphite fiber further comprises non-liquid-crystalline thermoplastic binder resin.Preferred Properties: The nickel-coated graphite fibers has diameter of 5-15 microm. The TLCPR particles has mean particle size of less than 1500 microm, preferably less than 1000 microm. The graphite filler having fiber of length less than 2 cm.Preferred Polymer: The aromatic thermoplastic liquid crystalline polymer is polyester or poly(ester-amide).Preferred Article: The shaped article comprises a form of bipolar plate having thickness of 0.1-10 mm, preferably 1-3 mm and fluid distribution channels inscribed upon their surface.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Layer: The surface layer passivated is layer containing oxide and hydroxide.Preferred Process: The coated layer is subjected to evaporation to remove hexane from the reaction mixture and the unreacted Na(hfa) is removed by sublimation.Preferred Condition: The sublimation temperature is 200 degrees C with a pressure of 10-3 torr and the particle size of the metallic particle is 1-10 nm. SPECIFIC MATERIALS - The metallic particle is aluminum.    EXAMPLE - Aluminum particle was prepared by dispersing 0.12 g of aluminum into a mixture comprising hexafluoro acetyl acetonate (11.0) in 150 ml hexane. An aliquot of NaH was added to the mixture and allowed to react for 12 hours with stirring in presence of N gas. During mixing the oxide and/or hydroxide groups from the aluminum particles is removed and a passivation layer was formed. Hexane was decanted and the remaining suspension was separated by centrifugation. The solid obtained was placed in Dailey Sublimer and the oil bath was employed by heating at 200 degrees C. Unreacted Na(hfa) sublimed leaving Na(hfa)-treated aluminum particles at the bottom. Na(hfa)-treated aluminum powder was applied to p-type silica to check ohmic contact. A control sample was prepared using untreated aluminum powder on p-type silica. In both cases an aliquot of aluminum was slurried with hexane and dropped onto Si wafer. The samples were transferred to tube furnace and heated at 645-649 degrees C. The passivated Al sample had favorable current-voltage characteristics.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: The substrate contains nickel. The article has superconducting layer made of compound of formula, (I), (II) or (III) on the epitaxial buffer layer.The final layer made of:(a) insulator which can be made of SrTiO3, LaAlO3, SrLaAlO4, yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ), or compound of formula RE2O3 (where RE is rare earth metal); or(b) conductor which can be silver (Ag) or LaNiO3.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Method: TiC is powder blended with a binder material and hot pressed at 175-190degreesC and at 10,000-40,000 psi, preferably at 190degreesC and 30000 psi. Preferred Binder: The binder is polysulfone, polyvinylidene fluoride resin, polyethylene, polypropylene, fluoroethylenepropylene, polyimide, polyetheretherketone, polyetherketone, polyphenylene sulfide or polybenzyimidazole.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Apparatus: The bipolar plate is a flat plate having integral ribs that define gas flow passages between adjacent single fuel cells.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Fuel Cell: The single fuel cells are phosphoric acid fuel cells (PAFC). Preferred Property: The single fuel cells are regenerative proton exchange membrane fuel cells. EXAMPLE - No suitable example.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Assembly: The metallic edging material comprises a metal selected from silver, silver alloys, gold, platinum and palladium or comprises nickel or nickel-based alloy, coated with any of the metals.
SPECIFIC COMPOUNDS - The hydrocarbon is methanol.    EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT, a heat exchanger (1) is supplied, at its medium side (1a), with a liquid methanol/water mixture by a dosing device (2) and. at its heat carrier side (1b), with the combustion waste gas from a catalytic burner (3). The burner (3) is supplied with fuel cell anode and cathode off-gases and optionally methanol from a mixer unit (4).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Catalytic Material: The catalytic material comprises platinum (Pt) and/or ruthenium (Ru) and ionomer.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Ionomer: The ionomer comprises a liquid copolymer of tetrafluoroethylene and perfluorovinylethersulfonic acid.Preferred Substrate: The substrate is membrane, preferably PSSA-PVDF (polystyrene sulfonic acid and poly(vinylidene difluoride)) membrane or a backing, preferably carbon paper.Preferred Condition: The membrane is bonded to the electrode at more than 180degreesC.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Process: The process further involves adding a membrane plasticizer which is a high boiling solvent, preferably N,N dimethyl acetamide, to the mixture. The surface of the membrane is roughened before applying the catalyst ink.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - Preferred Composition: The first conductive fibers comprise metal including stainless steel.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Material: The rigidifying material includes plastic resin. The fuel cell comprises a polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell.
EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the method, a catalyst is used to enhance reactivity of the iron-water reaction.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Material: The fuel cell is selected to be a phosphoric acid fuel cell or a proton exchange membrane fuel cell. Preferred Method: The step of applying the idle load includes applying the idle load that consumes 5-60%, preferably 10-40% of the maximum power that the fuel cell system is rated to produce. The idle load is applied when the temperature of the fuel cell is between the normal operating temperature of 350-425degreesF and the transition temperature is at 290-310degreesF.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Electrodes: Voltage applying electrode(s) includes material such as aluminum, copper, silver, iron, palladium, conductive metal oxides of above metals, tin oxide, zinc oxide and/or indium thin oxide. Electrode(s) (I) and (II) includes groove(s) comprising conductive metal such as nickel, copper and/or silver, in the front and back surface of the semiconductor substrate respectively.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Module: The module of solar cell further comprises metal plate between dielectric plate and second copolymer plate. The semiconductor layer of conductivity type (B) is electrically connected to electrode(s) (II) formed on the surface (II) of the semiconductor substrate.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Battery System: The connecting pipe is equipped with control unit (40) for controlling water vapor or oxygen supplied to the modifier, thereby controlling the reformation of hydrocarbon raw material in the modifier.The fuel battery system comprises an oxygen utilization factor controlling element (42) for controlling utilization of oxygen in the fuel battery, thereby controlling the amount of oxygen sent to the modifier through connecting pipe.Battery system also comprises water vapor formation unit (44) which forms water vapor using water formed in the fuel battery. The unreacted hydrogen ejected from a fuel battery is burnt and used for heating water.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Properties: The average particle diameter (C2) of alpha-lithium aluminate determined by laser method is 0.5-2 microns and the ratio (D) of average particle diameter to particle diameter (C1) determined by ball conversion method is 2-4. The average particle diameter of gamma-alumina determined by laser method is 0.7-2 microns.During manufacture of alpha-lithium aluminate, the molar ratio of lithium to aluminum is adjusted to 0.95-1.05.The ratio (Y) of average particle diameter (X2) of alpha-lithium aluminate and average particle diameter (X1) of gamma-alumina is 0.7-1.Preferred Compound: The lithium compound is selected from lithium carbonate, lithium hydroxide and lithium nitrate.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Process: The scale-like natural or expanded graphite powder is subjected to surface treatment. The blow hole rate of the granulated pellet is 5% or more. EXAMPLE - Graphite powder (80 weight%) was mixed in methanol solution of phenol resin (20 wt.%) containing 67% non-volatile matter. The kneaded material was mixed with water and granulated using a pin mold granulator and pellet of 150-1000 mum particle size was obtained. The granulated pellets were dried and volatile components were removed. Aliquot of granulated pellet (with blow hole rate of 7%) was taken in a rubber die and molding was subsequently performed at 2 ton/cm2 and a mold was obtained which was hardened at 180degreesC. The mold was cut and processed to thickness of 2.6 mm and recessing was performed to both sides and 50 grooves were formed. The manufactured separator had electric specific resistance of 0.0100 OMEGA (along X-Y), 0.0130 OMEGA (along Z) and 1.3 OMEGA (Z/X-Y), bending strength of 480 Kgf/cm2 min and corrosion current of 0.8 muA/cm2.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Apparatus: A hydrogen separation membrane (6, 15) is integrated into one and/or both reactors. A water vaporizer (11) is provided which is heated by a burner unit (18a) and/or from the heat from the shift reactor.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Material: The electrolyte A and electrolyte B are made of a perfluorosulfonic acid resin.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Materials: The first electrode substrate has a coating comprising an ion-conducting polymer. EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the invention, the structure of the electrode varies symmetrically as the active area, which is rectangular. The assembly further comprises a second reactant flow path which extends linearly across the second active area. The fluid transport properties and material composition of the first substrate vary symmetrically, while its density, porosity and pore size increase as the active area is traversed in-plane in the direction of the first reactant flow path. The material composition and loading of the electrocatalyst vary symmetrically as the electrode is traversed in the direction of the first reactant flow path.
EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the apparatus, an activating device also included for activating the pulsator when the fuel cell is operating at a high density, resulting to enhanced power density. The pulsator is in fluid communication with a reactant fluid exit manifold. The pulsator comprises a displacement lamp and a solenoid that is in fluid communication with multiple flow regulators.
EXAMPLE - (In weight parts) Graphite powder (98) having average particle diameter of 10 microns, phenol resin particle (2) S-899 having average particle diameter of 15 microns and 99% methanol (100 volume parts) were stirred well to obtain a mixture. The obtained mixture was supplied to a molding machine and heat-pressed at a molding pressure of 1000 kgf/cm2 and die temperature of 200 degreesC for 10 minutes, to obtain a three-dimensional intermediate molded article. The obtained molded article was baked at 900 degreesC for 5 hours in a nitrogen atmosphere. Then, the molded article was cooled under normal temperature for 15 hours to obtain an electro-conductive molded article. The density, bending strength, intrinsic electrical resistance and shrinkage percentage of the electro-conductive molded article were measured and found to be 2.04 g/cm3, 8 kgf/mm2, 850 micro Ohm x cm and 0.10%, respectively.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Arrangement: The oxidation gas feed unit is regulated so that the mole ratio of the carbon monoxide contained in the hydrogen-rich gas to the oxygen is the same as the predetermined mole ratio. The mole ratio is more than 0.05, preferably more than 0.2. The reformer further comprises a gas flow determining unit for determining the amount of hydrogen-rich gas fed to the shift reaction region. The shift reaction comprises using a copper-zinc catalyst.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Substrate: The substrate is silicon. Preferred Components: The pair of electrodes of the fuel cell stack includes a first electrode composed of hydrogen catalyzing conducting material which is nickel, carbon, platinum, or palladium (preferably nickel), and a second electrode composed of oxygen catalyzing conducting material which is silver, carbon, platinum, or lanthanum strontium manganate (LSM) (preferably silver). The electrolyte is composed of solid oxide, or proton exchange membrane materials and an yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ).    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Materials: The substrate is plastic. The electrolyte is composed of solid polymer.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CERAMICS AND GLASS - Preferred Substrate: The substrate is glass or ceramic. EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the invention, the channels additionally includes a second substrate having a manifold for directing an oxidant to an opposite side of the fuel cell stack. The fuel cell stack includes a catalyst adjacent the electrolyte. The second substrate bonded to the substrate(s), and having fuel inlet(s) extending and in open communication with the manifold. The resistive heater is located in the fuel cell stack. The second substrate additionally includes a cutaway open communication with the manifold and the fuel inlet. The fuel cell includes a porous membrane located intermediate the fuel cell stack and the manifold, a third substrate which is secured to the first substrate, a porous electrode formed by photolithographically patterning and etching a continuous metal electrode layer, or by deposition on a porous membrane. A membrane electrode assembly laminate structure is attached, bonded or mechanically sealed to a micromachined manifold host structure. The fuel cell modules is directly stacked on top of each other to scale voltage and power. Fuel inlets deliver fuel from a common reservoir.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Material: The electrically conductive material is a thermosetting or a thermoplastic resin.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Device: The fuel cell is a solid polymer fuel cell.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: The fluid flow field plate is made of expanded graphite.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Process: The solid or semi-solid matrix is formed by solidifying and evaporating an ion conductive liquid.Preferred Composition: The matrix contains aprotic liquid(s) and salt(s). The aprotic liquid contains butylene carbonate, propylene carbonate, ethylene carbonate, ester(s), dimethyl carbonate or diethyl carbonate.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Salt: The salt is lithium hexafluoro phosphate salt. EXAMPLE - (In grams) A mixture comprising dimethyl carbonate (27), ethylene carbonate (13), lithium perchlorate (5), polyethylene oxide (PEO) (10) and polyvinylidenefluoride (PVDF) hexafluoropropylene copolymer (6.5) was heated to 90degreesC and mixed by magnetic stirrer to dissolve PVDF and PEO. A length of glass fiber net was coated with the hot mixture and was subsequently applied to lithiated cobalt oxide electrode layer. The composite electrolyte was cooled to 27degreesC and dimethyl carbonate was partially evaporated to obtain a solid or semi-solid ion conductive composite layer of desired thickness, strength and adherence. The composite was combined with carbon electrode and the resultant cell was sealed in a moisture proof bag. The polymeric electrolyte obtained was found to have favorable properties and cell was found to be rechargeable.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Arrangement: The membrane electrode assembly is a tubular assembly comprising a laminate of solid polymer electrolyte, noble metal catalysts disposed on opposite sides of polymer electrolyte, cathode in contact with noble metal catalyst on one side of polymer electrolyte and anode in contact with noble metal catalyst on other side of polymer electrolyte. The laminate is disposed on porous cylindrical central core. The solid fuel storage medium being electrically conductive encloses tubular membrane electrode. The tubular membrane and storage medium are arranged in a housing such that end portions of porous central core are exposed to air, to provide oxygen to fuel cell. Several central cores are configured within the storage medium. The electrode assembly is disposed coaxially along the length of each central core cylinder, such that ends of the cylinder are exposed.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: The solid polymer electrolyte comprises polybenzimidazole or perfluorinated sulfonic acid derived from fluorinated styrene. Preferred Process: The oxidant preferably air passes through the central core and fuel is generated. Air is supplied to the central core when hydrogen gas is desorbed from fuel storage medium. The fuel cell has no external fuel source.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: The storage medium comprises a metal hydride or a metal that chemisorbs hydrogen which is chosen from activated carbon, carbon nano-fiber and graphite. The porous central core is reticulated vitreous metal or carbon.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred assembly: The anode and cathode porous substrates are impregnated at their periphery with a thermoplastic polymer, preferably a THERMOBOND, TEDLAR or KYLAR (all RTMs) film.A bonding and sealing layer of foam tape disposed between the anode substrate and the anode water transport plate at respective peripheral areas.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Structure: The screen layers are bound together by the frame bonds. The first screen layer has elongated, diamond or oval shaped perforations with a size of about 0.077 inches (1.96 mm) or less by about 0.033 inches (0.838 mm) or less and a thickness of less than 0.005 inches (0.127 mm), preferably 0.089 mm or less. The size and thickness are interrelated such that the passage of water and gas through perforation is enabled. The perforations in one screen layer is provided orthogonal to the perforations in subsequent screen layer. Subsequent screen layer is arranged parallel to and in contact with the first screen layer. The size of at least a portion of perforations in second screen layer is larger than the size of perforation in first screen layer. At least one woven layer is provided between and in intimate contact with two screen layers. The woven layer has the mesh size of about 300 mesh (preferably about 200 mesh, most preferably 20-80 mesh).Preferred Condition: The screen/frame assembly provides structural integrity to the electrolyte membrane with a pressure difference of greater than 400 psi (preferably greater than 1000 psig) across electrolyte membrane.Preferred Material: The frame is made of polyetherimide, polysulfone, polyethersulfone, polyarylether ketone, ethylenepropylenediene monomer, ethylene propylene rubber or their mixtures.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Properties: The pressure pad of electrochemical cell has gradient of porosity and is compatible with electrochemical cell. The pressure pad maintains uniform pressure on high pressure flow field and functions under pressure exceeding 2000 psi, preferable 5000 psi. Preferred Structure: The pad comprises porous layer(s) of conductive material interwoven with elastomers.Preferred Process: A high pressure electrochemical cell is operated by introducing HPF having pressure greater than 100 psi into a high pressure flow field which is in contact with pressure pad. The HPF is subsequently reacted on HPE to form ions. The HPE is adjacent to and in fluid communication with the high pressure flow field. The ions formed are migrated to LPE through membrane and a LPF is formed at LPE. The LPF formed is then passed through a low pressure flow field. The high pressure electrochemical cell is operated at pressure greater than 500 psi, preferably 5000 psi. Alternatively, a HPF(I) is introduced to high pressure flow field and a portion of the fluid is migrated to LPE through a membrane. The HPF is reacted on LPE and ions are formed. The ions formed are migrated to HPE through the membrane and HPF(II) is formed on HPE which is passed through high pressure flow field.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Compounds: The electrically conductive material is steel, nickel, cobalt, carbon, refractory metal, precious metal and/or carbon. The elastomers is fluorosilicon and/or fluoroelastomer.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Condition: The immersion time of the basic polymer in strong acid is at most 1 hour.Preferred Acid: The strong acid is phosphoric acid or sulfuric acid, preferably phosphoric acid having concentration at least 80 wt.%.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Basic Polymer: The basic polymer comprises polypyridine, polypyrimidine polyimidazole, polybenzthiazole, polybenzoxazole, polyoxadiazole, polyquinoline, polyquinoxaline, polythiadiazole, polytetrazapyrenes, polyoxazole, polythiazole, polyvinyl pyridine, polyvinyl imidazole or polybenzimidazole. EXAMPLE - Polybenzimidazole (PBI) dissolved in N,N-dimethylacetamide was rotated at 1100 rpm in a tubular cylinder at 90 degrees C for 2 hours to yield 30 micrometers thick membrane. The PBI membrane was impregnated with orthophosphoric acid and the film was washed in water and dried. The dried PBI films (weight = 0.0692 g) were immersed in 30 ml of 85 wt.% aqueous orthophosphoric acid at 50 degrees C for 5 minutes. The PBI films were removed from phosphoric acid and wiped off to remove excess phosphoric acid. The amount of phosphoric acid impregnated = 0.2017 g, number of phosphoric acid molecules impregnated per polymer repeating unit = 9.58 and number of adsorbed water molecules per polymer repeating unit = 21.69.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Components: The dopant comprises phosphorus. The electrical contacts comprise grid(s) of silver, which is formed by screen printing. The silicon is multicrystalline silicon (mc-Si). Plasma hydrogenation uses ammonia (NH3). Etching uses plasma comprising sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) and oxygen gas (O2). The pervious polycrystalline coating is silicon dioxide (SiO2) or metal.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred Process: The process further includes plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) which comprises a first nitride deposition followed by plasma hydrogenation, and a second nitride deposition resulting in a nitride layer which functions as an anti-reflection coating. It further comprises depositing on the surface a pervious polycrystalline coating prior to etching.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Materials: The granular source material comprises silicon and a dopant. The crucible comprises graphite, quartz, silicon carbide, or silicon nitride. EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the invention, the feeder comprises a hopper (12). The translationally moving belt delivers the granular source material from the feeder to the crucible at a rate further based on a speed of the belt and a size of an opening (8, 10) of the hopper. The granular source material comprises a semiconductor material and has non-uniform sized particles.    The system further comprises a funnel for directing the granular source material disposed on the moving belt into the melt, and a motor for moving the belt. The moving belt has raised lip(s) disposed near an edge of the belt, and a stopper disposed above the belt behind the feeder.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - The acid can be hydrochloric acid or nitric acid. The electrolyte fluid is prepared by adding lithium iodide to a solvent containing iodine tincture.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - The acid may be acetic acid. The solvent comprises butane diol and/or glycerol.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Process: The substrate is rotated after pulling it from the solution. The substrate is also rotated in the solution during growth of the semiconductor thin film.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: The large semiconductor layer formed between buffer layers has energy gap of AlxGa1-xAs, where x is at least 0.6.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Materials: An adhesion layer made of epoxy resin or phenol resin is used to bind the stationary coating membrane to the metal plate.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Apparatus: The auxiliary fuel supply is H2 supply. The supply also includes desulfurized HC fuel and H2. The sulfur free hydrocarbon fuel is methanol. A sulfur scrubbing bed removes sulfur from hydrocarbon fuel to form HC fuel free from sulfur. The bed comprises a monolithic open cell sponge substrate with interstices provided with high surface area washcoat. The washcoat of the interstices is coated with nickel.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Method: The metal oxide is V2O5, LiV5O13, MnO2, V6O13, LiV3O7.9, especially a lithium vanadium oxide or vanadium oxide, and the organic solvent consists of acetonitrile, tetrahydrofuran, ethylene glycol dimethyl ether, diethylene glycol dimethyl ether, diethyleneglycol diethylether, triethyleneglycol dimethyl ether, tetraethylene glycol dimethyl ether or poly(ethylene glycol)dimethyl ether. Contacting is carried out at 60-100 degreesC. Conversion of LiV3O7.9 results in lithiated LiV3O7.9. EXAMPLE - LiV5O13 (3.0 g), dried under vacuum, and lithium sulfide (0.86 g) were mixed in THF (50 ml) and refluxed under argon for 19 hours, then filtered and the black solid obtained washed in THF and dried. The product was ground to particle size of 1-10 microns and used to form a coating emulsion, and showed discharge capacity of 242 mAh/g.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CERAMICS AND GLASS - Preferred Materials: The sodium oxide:potassium oxide ratio in wt% is at least 1:1 and up to 6:1. The cerium oxide content is less than 2 wt.%. The cerium oxide + titanium dioxide content is not more than 2 wt.%.The borosilicate glass has a composition of (wt.%): silica 59 - 69 (preferably 64.45); boron trioxide 8.5 - 12 (preferably 11.10); alumina 2 - 2.5 (preferably 2.25); sodium oxide 6.5 - 12 (preferably 7.15); potassium oxide 2 - 8 (preferably 6.65); zinc oxide 6.5 - 7.5 (preferably 7.0); cerium oxide 0.25 - less than 2 (preferably 0.50); titanium dioxide 0.25 - 1 (preferably 0.75); and antimony oxide 0 - 0.5 (preferably 0.25).Preferred Properties: The borosilicate glass has a liquidus temperature less than 900degreesC and a viscosity at the liquidus temperature more than 50 kilopoises. The microsheet can be drawn over an extended period of time without crystal build up.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred Properties: The sodium oxide:potassium oxide ratio in wt% is more than 2:1 and the log DC of resistivity is less than 15.5 at 25degreesC.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - The screen portion and the protector edge are formed by photochemically etching the protector ring to the screen portion, or by laser cutting the protector edge and the screen portion together. In the sub-assembly, the first screen layer is tack welded to the subsequent screen layer.
SPECIFIC COMPOUNDS - The glass-ceramic preferably comprises 70-95 wt.% of a glass component, having the composition (by wt.) 30-60% SiO2, 15-30% BaO, 10-20% B2O3 and 8-15% Al2O3, and 0.5-10 wt.% of a metallic nucleating agent selected from Mg, Cr, Ti, Zr and Al.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Materials: The catalyst material is mainly applied on proton-conducting passageways. The catalyst material contains Pt and Ru, or contains a Pt-group element and Ni, Fe, Co, Mo, Cr, V, Ti, W or Al. The amount of catalyst material, with which the surface of the carbon particles in contact with the proton-conducting passageways is charged, exceeds 50 wt.% of the total charge amount of the catalyst. The catalyst material comprises two or more layers each containing different metal elements.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Tracer: The tracer is methane, helium, argon or sulfur hexafluoride.Preferred Fluid: The fluid containing the tracer is a fuel.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred polymers: CEM may include a third comonomer (modifier), especially ethylene, perfluoro-2-methylene-4-methyl-1,3-dioxolan or a 1-3C perfluoroalkyl-vinyl ether.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred assembly: The membrane coating contains (by weight) (1) 20-85% (A), 10-60% (B), 2-8% cation-exchange fluoropolymer (C) identical to that used for CEM and 3-15% poly(tetrafluoroethylene) or (2) 65-95% (A), 1-35% (B) and 1-9% (C). Preparation: CEM is treated, on both sides, with a mixture of (A), (B) and 1-5% fluorocopolymer, dissolved in a mixture of organic solvents having different boiling points. The coated membrane is then heated in several stages from 20-35degreesC to 80-100degreesC.Preferred materials: (A) is e.g. platinum, iridium or iridium dioxide (optionally mixed with other metal oxides) for anodic surfaces, or platinum (optionally mixed with ruthenium) or palladium for cathodic surfaces. (B) is e.g. carbon, lead or lead dioxide. EXAMPLE - An electrode material was made from (i) 0.24 g platinum deposited on 0.58 g acetylene black of particle size 0.01 micron, (ii) 0.1 g poly(tetrafluoroethylene) and 0.08 g copolymer of formula CPL-1 -(CF2-CF2)-m-(CF-CF2)n- O-CF2-CF(CF3)-O-CF2CF-2-SO3H where m = 89.6 and n = 10.4, as percentages, as a 3% solution in a mixture of ethanol, Freon-113 and 2-butanone. The resulting viscous mixture was applied to one surface of a CPL-1 cation-exchange membrane (150 micron thick), having degree of crystallinity 8% and weight equivalent 1200. The catalyst concentration was 0.3 mug/square cm, and the coated membrane was dried in stages. It was then treated similarly on the other side. When tested in a hydrogen/oxygen fuel cell, this assembly produced 0.77-0.78 V with current density 0.5 A/square cm. The cell operated stably for 3000 hr without any peeling of the coating layers from the membrane.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Reactor: The catalytic reaction zone has selective oxidation catalyst deposited upon the metal support. The metal support is mounted in good heat exchange contact with the central jacket. The reactor consists of 2-10 (preferably 4) stages, and is connected to the reformer output such that CO is removed from the output gas to a level where the output from the reactor may be fed to a fuel cell. The selective oxidation zone is maintained at 100-250 degreesC. The fuel cell is provided with hydrogen fuel.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Method: After treatment, the semiconductor material, especially a silicon semiconductor, is heated from ambient temperature to dry the passivation solution, especially to 80-90degreesC. It is then provided with a moisture- and/or gas-tight layer, especially a film and/or glass coating.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: The polyfluorinated compound has side group(s) are derived from a sulfur acid and e.g. is perfluorooctanesulfonic acid.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Composition: A solution containing Nafion (RTM) and 20-50, especially 20-35 vol.% water is suitable. Composition: (disclosed) Nafion (RTM) is a perfluorosulfonic acid polymer with the structure (I); SPECIFIC COMPOUNDS - Specific examples of the polyfluorinated compound are perfluorooctanesulfonic acid and . A specific example of the semiconductor material is silicon.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred system: The anode flow field exhaust line preferably connects the anode exhaust to the cathode flow field inlet and the hydrogen/oxidant catalytic surface comprises a surface of the cathode substrate of the fuel cell, exhaust from the cathode flow field being vented to ambient.Alternatively, the hydrogen/oxidant catalytic surface comprises a catalytic converter (69) having an oxidant inlet separate from the fuel call, the anode field exhaust line connecting the anode flow field to the catalytic converter and the exhaust of the catalytic converter being vented to ambient. The exhaust of the cathode flow field is connected to the oxidant inlet of the catalytic converter.The hydrogen/oxidant catalytic surface comprises a catalytic converter having an oxidant inlet formed within an anode exit flow field manifold on the fuel cell, the anode flow field exhaust line comprising the manifold. The exhaust of the converter is vented to ambient. The exhaust of the cathode flow field is connected to the oxidant inlet of the catalytic converter.The oxidant is preferably air.The fuel cell system has a flow control valve in the anode flow field exhaust line which is controlled to provide intermittent flow, preferably in response to a predetermined time schedule. Alternatively, the valve meters flow in response to the amount of hydrogen in the mixture of the anode exhaust and the inlet oxidant at the inlet to the cathode flow field, in response to the composition of gas in the anode flow field exhaust, or in response to the current output of the fuel cell.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred fuel manifold: Each fuel manifold comprises a porous plastic fuel bag which is sealed around the edges.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Apparatus: Each fuel manifold comprises a dielectric serpentine fuel flow path, fuel supply channel block, plug-in fuel and electrical connections, conductive positive and negative electrical compression contacts, dielectric module handle, mounting and compression holes. The bus structure has a hollow fuel and compression bolt that make both the fuel supply and electrical connections. Each fuel valve connector comprises an o-ring seal, an inner valve assembly, an inner and outer seal cone, air pressure springs, sliding shaft, fuel apertures and an aperture cadge. EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the apparatus, each fuel cell module has two individual fuel cell arrays. The fuel cell arrays is sandwiched between the fuel manifold module and the end cap air manifolds. A fuel gasket seals between the fuel cell arrays and the fuel manifold module. The end cap air manifolds are coupled to the air side of the fuel cell arrays. The fuel manifold module is coupled to the fuel side of the fuel arrays through serpentine air flow channels from side-to-side of the assembly. A protection diode is provided for preventing backward current from flowing through the fuel cell assembly in the event of catastrophic failure. The fuel cell module has a fail safe start-up device and automatic shut-down feature.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Catalyst: The electrocatalyst and oxidation catalyst are platinum (preferably) or platinum/ruthenium alloy and both have a total loading of less than 0.75 mg/cm2.Preferred Composition: The fuel stream contains 1-6 vol.% air. The carbon monoxide has a concentration of 250 ppm CO in neat H.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Elastomer: The elastomer is silicone rubber foam or closed cell sponge with a compressibility of 2-20 psi at 25% deflection, compressive set of less than 35% at 25% deflection at 190degreesF and thickness of 1/16-3/16 inch.Preferred Method: The manifold can be alternatively sealed to fuel cell by adhering elastomer layer to entire contact perimeter surface of manifold. The exposed surface of the adhered elastomer layer is applied with a low temperature curing silicone rubber adhesive of required thickness to fill any void resulting from ends of fuel cell layers with adjacent elastomer layer being non-coplanar with the surfaces of end plates facing the elastomer layer. The manifold is then positioned on fuel cell while allowing adhesive to cure under a low force applied to manifold. SPECIFIC COMPOUNDS - The elastomer is Rogers BF-1000 Poron silicone or Ja-Bar JB 0202 silicone sponge. The silicone rubber adhesive is GE RTV 108 or Dow 732.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Cell: The fuel cell is a solid polymer electrolyte fuel cell.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Reactants: HTL is aprotic, dielectric or preferably a non-aqueous liquid, which is mixed with a gaseous reactant introduced to the fuel cell as two-phase fluid. Aprotic HTL are immiscible with water e.g. paraffin oils, hydrocarbons or fluorocarbons. The fluorocarbon is a perfluorocarbon of perfluorooctane, perfluorotributylamine, 1-decene, perfluoroether, perfluorocyclic ether, perfluorotripropylamine, cis-perfluorodecalin, transperfluorodecalin, perfluoro-1-methyl decalin, perfluoroisopentyltetrahydropyran, perfluoro-N,N-dimethylcyclohexylamine, perfluoroperhydrophenanthrene, perfluorotriamylamine or perfluorotributylamine. The reactant is a gaseous fuel reactant containing hydrogen and the HTL may also be protic methanol liquid. EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the invention, the reactant fluid stream is introduced to the first electrode as a two-phase fluid stream. The HTL is chemically unreactive towards fuel cell components that directly contact the reactant fluid stream. The temperature of the fuel cell is monitored and controlled to keep the temperature within the pre-set temperature range. The reactants are dissolved in the HTL to produce a fluid stream. The reactant and HTL are controlled in the reactant fluid stream. The reactant fluid exhaust stream further comprises surplus reactant and a portion of it is recirculated to the first electrode by introducing it into the pressurized reactant fluid stream. The surplus reactant from the HTL is separated in the reactant fluid exhaust stream. The HTL purge reaction product water and excess hydration water from the fuel cell are introduced to the first electrode.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Reformer: The oxygen supply includes a blowout tube that extends into the central area, where the oxygen is supplied from the center of the internal chamber through outlets in the blowout tube toward the inner surface of the outer wall. The steam supplied to the vicinity of the inner surface of the outer wall has a high partial pressure.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Oxide: The alkaline earth metal oxide is substituted with an alkali metal oxide, e.g. NaxCa1-xO, where x = 0-0.2. The rare metal oxide is cerium (IV) oxide (CeO2), lanthanum oxide (La2O3), or GdxCe1-x, where x = 0.2. The rare metal oxide that is substituted with an alkaline earth metal oxide is (CaO)xLa2O3, where x = 0-1. The Group VIII transition metal-substituted rare earth metal oxide is (NiO)xLa2O3, where x = 0-1.Preferred Material: The supports are alumina pellets provided with pure alkaline earth metal oxide, a mixed alkaline earth metal oxide, or an alkaline earth metal oxide substituted with an alkali metal oxide coating to limit carbon build-up on the pellets.Preferred Suspension: The suspension is formed from a solution of soluble salts containing alkaline earth, rare earth, alkali, or Group VIII metal ions. It is formed to maintain a percentage of the soluble salts in solution.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - Preferred Component: The gas passages include an outer steel or steel alloy component. EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT, the metal oxide coating penetrates pores in the porous alumina coating. The reformer further comprises a packed bed (12) in certain portions of the gas passages, formed from conventional catalyst supports such as alumina.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - The interconnector plate (2) consists of CrFe5Y2O31.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - A solar battery element has the thin film of the group Ib-IIIb-VIb2 compound semiconductor as its constituent.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Property: The surface roughness (ARa) of layer A is greater than surface roughness (ARb) of layer B. ARa is greater than 20 nm. Preferred Foreign Material: The foreign material contains cross-linking polyester group resin, acrylic type resin, urethane group resin, styrene resin, non-crosslinked material, cellulose resin, polyvinyl group resin, vinylidene chloride group resin, vinyl chloride group resin, gelatin, silicone-base resin or fluorine group resin. Preferred Arrangement: A compound layer B is provided on both sides of the layer A. A coating layer containing silicone resin, with thickness of 1 mm or less is provided to the surface layer of layer B.
EXAMPLE - Typical fluorine resin contains poly tetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), berfluoroalcoxy resin (PFA) consisting of tetrafluoroethylene-berfluoroalkylvinylether copolymer, and a tetrafluoroethylene-berfluoroalkylvinyl-ether-hexafluoropropylene copolymer (EPE).
EXAMPLE - Poly tetrafluoroethylene, berfluoroalkoxy resin formed of a copolymer of tetrafluoroethylene and berfluoroalkylvinylether, tetrafluoroehtyleneethylene-berfluoroalkylvynilether-hexafluoropropylene copolymer, and a tetrafluoroethylene-ethylene or propylene copolymer are used in a fluorine resin sheet.
EXAMPLE - A surface protection sheet (A) has a fundamental structure, as shown in Fig. 1, wherein a coating resin (1) formed of a resin composition where fluorine resin forms a main component of a vehicle, and a resin film (3) with one surface having a deposited film (2) of an inorganic oxide are laminated together.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Conditions: The polymer binder has a melt viscosity of less than 200 Nasterisks/m2 over a shear rate as above. It comprises a thermoplastic having a thermal index of at least 45degreesC and a melting temperature of at least 90degreesC.Preferred Binder: The polymer binder is of thermoplastic polymers consisting of polyphenylene sulfides, modified polyphenylene oxides, liquid crystal polymers, polyamides, polyimides, polyesters, phenolics or epoxy-containing resins vinyl esters.Preferred Composite: The polymer composite comprises a current collector plate for a PEM fuel cell.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: The conductive particles comprise carbon or graphite particles, or at least 45 wt.% of the composition.Preferred Properties: The conductive particles have an average particle size of 0.1-200, preferably 23-26 microns. They have a Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET)-measured average surface area of 1-100, preferably 7-10 m2/g.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Metal: The transition metal is gold, platinum, palladium or nickel. EXAMPLE - 6 mm of hexachloro platinate, 1.55 g of Nafion 112 (RTM: perfluoro carbon sulfonic acid), 2.5 g of water, 2.5 ml of ethanol and 13 ml of pentanol were mixed and heated to a temperature below 127 degrees C. Pt4+ was reduced to Pt0 and platinum ultrafine particle included solid polymer electrolyte film was obtained. The electrical conductivity of the obtained solid polymer electrolyte film was 0.138 S/cm.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INSTRUMENTATION AND TESTING - The heater comprises a burner (6) which oxidizes fuel for burning with air, and a vaporizer (7) for vaporizing the raw fuel.The controller further comprises an air quantity controller, a detector for detecting a physical value indicating the quantity of raw fuel heated by the heater, a correcting device for correcting the target temperature, and a heat value correcting device.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred Materials: The first and second materials are organic semiconductors of different conductivity type. The colloidal material comprises TiO2 or SnO2 semiconductor, an organic semiconductor, a fullerene, a substituted fullerene, a fullerene derivative or a graphitic carbon modification.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred Method: The module is heated to 480-540degreesC to thermally decompose the polymeric material. An inert atmosphere is provided by providing a housing (62) with a chamber (64) for containing the inert atmosphere. The method further comprises providing a cooling chamber after the heating step; and providing two holders, the first holder (80) supports the module during the heating step and a second (90) supports the solar cell(s) after the cell falls as a result of the heating step. The heating step lasts for at least 15 minutes or at least 1 h. Preferred Component: The module comprises: (i) a metallic frame that separates from the module before the step of removing the backing layer (40); (ii) solar cells interconnected by metallic ribbon that falls to the floor after the heating step. The solar cell comprises a crystalline silicon wafer (44) with two sides, both having electrical contact grids.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: The module further comprises lead. The metallic ribbon is made of copper and is coated with lead or tin. The first holder is made of aluminum. Preferred Method: The method further includes combusting the gaseous decomposition products in a pyrolytic afterburner (78) to give carbon dioxide and water vapor.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Material: The polymeric material comprises ethylene-vinyl-acetate. Preferred Components: The module comprises two polymeric layers (36, 38).    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CERAMICS AND GLASS - Preferred Substrate: The substrate is glass (34) adhered to the polymeric layer where after heating is free of the polymeric material.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Cell: The solar cells are free or polymeric material, metallic ribbon, and lead solder after the heating step.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Bipolar Plate: The conductive particles are selected from silver, gold, nickel, platinum, graphite, carbon, nickel plated graphite and nickel plated carbon.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Bipolar Plate: The polymer matrix is selected from epoxies, acrylics, phenolics, silicones, polyvinyl acetate and acetals.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred encapsulant: The encapsulant is selected from ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, polyisobutylene, polyvinylbutyral and silicone.
SPECIFIC COMPOUNDS - The light metal alloy is an aluminum alloy of composition (by weight)    (i) 0.3-0.4% Cu, 12.0-12.2% Si, 0.08-0.11% Mg, 0.23-0.24% Mn, 0.64-0.74% Fe, 0.09-0.10% Zn and balance Al;    (ii) 2.8-3.0% Cu, 8.4-8.6% Si, 0.08-0.10% Mg, 0.32-0.37% Mn, 0.70-0.71% Fe, 0.13-0.14% Zn and balance Al;    (iii) 1.9-2.5% Cu, 9.4-10.4% Si, 0.21-0.25% Mg, 0.16-0.38% Mn, 0.72-0.93% Fe, 0.42-0.93% Zn and balance Al;    (iv) 0.01% Cu, 0.1% Si, 0.80% Mn, 0.09% Fe, 0.01% Ni, 0.01% Ti and balance Al;    (v) 1.4-4.3% Mn, 0.5-1.0% Fe and balance Al;    (vi) 0.05% Cu, 1.0% Co and balance Al; or    (vii) 2.0% Mn, 3.0% Zn, 1.0% Fe, 0.5% Mg and balance Al.    Alternatively, the light metal alloy is a magnesium alloy of composition (by weight):    (i) 5.3-6.1% Al, 2.5-3.5% Zn, 0.15-0.6% Mn, less than 0.3% Si, less than 0.1% Cu, less than 0.01% Ni and balance Mg;    (ii) 8.1-9.3% Al, 0.4-1.0% Zn, 0.13-0.5% Mn, less than 0.3% Si, less than 0.1% Cu, less than 0.01% Ni and balance Mg;    (iii) 8.3-9.7% Al, 1.6-2.4% Zn, 0.1-0.5% Mn, less than 0.3% Si, less than 0.1% Cu, less than 0.01% Ni and balance Mg;    (iv) 9.3-10.7% Al, 0.3% Zn, 0.1-0.5% Mn, less than 0.3% Si, less than 0.1% Cu, less than 0.01% Ni and balance Mg;    (v) 3.6-5.5% Zn, 0.5-1.0% Zr, less than 0.1% Cu, less than 0.1% Ni and balance Mg;    (vi) 5.5-6.5% Zn, 0.6-1.0% Zr, less than 0.1% Cu, less than 0.01% Ni and balance Mg;    (vii) 2.0-3.1% Zn, 2.5-4.0% Re, 0.5-1.0% Zr, less than 0.1% Cu, less than 0.01% Ni and balance Mg;    (viii) 2.5-4.0% Th, 0.5-1.0% Zr and balance Mg;    (ix) 2.5-4.0% Th, 1.7-2.5% Zn, 0.5-1.0% Zr and balance Mg;    (x) 1.4-2.2% Th, 5.2-6.2% Zn, 0.5-1.0% Zr and balance Mg;    (xi) 2.0-3.5% Zn, less than 0.5% Zr and balance Mg; or    (xii) 3.6-5.5% Zn, 0.5-1% Zr and balance Mg.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Process: The catalyst, kt, contains Co, Ni or Li or a Group VIII metal.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Compound: The organoacid is orthophosphoric acid, sulfuric acid, perchloric acid, or their mixtures.Preferred Component: The organic compound comprises acetonitrile (preferably), acrylonitrile, low molecular weight ether, low molecular weight alcohol, or their mixtures. The organophosphoric compound comprises an orthophosphoric acid derivative containing at least 3 hydrogen atoms which are replaced with an organic group.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Component: The polymer electrolyte contains a compound in admixture with polyether, polyamide, polyacrylate, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinylacetate, polyvinylpyridine, polyacrylamide, polyimide, polybenzimidazole, polyvinylpyrolidone, polyaromatic pyrazole, perfluoronated sulfonic acid polymer, polyarylenesulfone, sulfonic acid derivatives of trifluorostyrene, styrene/ethylene/butylene copolymers, fluorinated ethylene propylene polymer, or polyvinylidene fluoride. The molar ratio of polymer to organoacid compound is 0.2-10.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Material: The cell is a rechargeable battery. EXAMPLE - 50 g anhydrous orthophosphoric acid and 120 ml acetonitrile are heated at 70 degreesC for 24 hours. The unreacted acetonitrile was evaporated and the organophosphoric adduct was dried under vacuum. 32 g dried adduct was placed in 35 ml tetrahydrofuran (THF), and 29 g poloxyethylene and 3 g Aerosil were added. A polymer electrolyte film was prepared by coating the solution of a fluorinated ethylene propylene polymer substrate. The resulting electrolyte film was perfectly clear and can be peeled off from the substrate even after weeks of storage. The mechanical strength was retained after extended period of times in ambient moist air or after it was treated at 90 degreesC under nitrogen for one day. The results indicated that no significant polymer degradation had occurred.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: The carbonaceous feedstock is coal, hydrocarbon oil, natural gas, petroleum coke, oil shale, waste oil, hazardous waste, municipal garbage and/or medical waste.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: The greenhouse gas stream is carbon dioxide. The oxygen-containing gas is air. Preferred Component: The first and second half cells contain an electrolyte and an air electrolyte, respectively.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Process: The gasification step is done at 400-700degreesC. A portion of the synthesis gas is converted into useful hydrocarbon products in a Fischer-Tropsch reactor. A major portion of the water is condensed. The hydrogen and at least a portion of the condensed water are used to adjust the hydrogen to carbon ratio (preferably 1.75-2.25) in the combined feedstock and the greenhouse gas stream. The process further includes converting at least a portion of the synthesis gas into methanol and removing sulfur before the electrochemical oxidizing step.
EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the invention, at least one of the first and second hydrogen inlets comprises a rigid hydrogen injection tube (22,24). The anode is sandwiched between the first and second layers (16,18) comprising the noble metal catalyst. The sleeve further comprises third and fourth edges, in which at least one of the edges is heat-sealed. The cylindrical fuel cell comprises an anode, in which at least one surface is in ionic communication with a first noble metal catalyst effective to produce an open circuit voltage of at least 0.5 volts.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CERAMICS AND GLASS - Preferred Features: The needle-shaped ceramic fiber particles are non-reactive and non-adhering to graphite. Suitable particles can be formed of macerated quartz fibers, carbon and graphite fibers, zirconia, boron nitride, silicon carbide or magnesia fibers.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Sheet: The thin flat flexible graphite sheet is resin impregnated. EXAMPLE - 80 wt.% natural graphite was treated with a mixture of 90 wt.% sulfuric acid and 10 wt.% nitric acid. The intercalated graphite was washed with water and dried to 1 wt.% water. One pound (lb) of the flake was mixed with 0.15 lb of needle-shaped ceramic fiber available as calcium metasilicate with a 15:1 l/w aspect ratio. The mixture was introduced into a furnace of 2500degreesF to obtain rapid expansion into particles having a volume of 325 times that of unexpanded flake. The particles surrounded the admixed fibers and the mixture was rolled into a flexible graphite in which admixed fibers containing 12 wt.% calcium metasilicate fiber extended from a sheet's surface into the sheet's body. A square foot sample of the sheet containing 5 wt.% fiber was immersed in the diluted resin solution for 15 s such that the sheet contained a uniform distribution of 15 wt.% resin. The sheet was dried to 100degreesC and was deformed by stamping into a shape useful as a flow plate.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CERAMICS AND GLASS - Preferred Process: Educts with an average grain size of 0.01-0.05 microns are used. Sintering is carried out at 800-1200, especially 850-1100o C at a rate of 0.5-20, preferably 1-10o C. The educts in the form of oxides are dried, wet ground and calcined.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred Method: The thin film Si device is formed in a crystalline Si thin film, or in an amorphous Si thin film formed on a Transparent Conductive Oxide (TCO) layer. The texturing layer is applied by applying a Sol-Gel glass containing texturing particles to the substrate/superstrate so that the thickness of the glass film is less than the average diameter of the texturing particles, and heating the glass to sinter it to become a dielectric layer or a TCO layer. After the application of texturing material is complete, a thin conformal barrier layer is formed before forming the Si film. After the Si film is formed, a reflective material layer is formed over a surface of the Si film remote from the substrate/superstrate. An insulating layer is formed over the Si film before the formation of the reflective layer that forms a metallization structure to contact the active regions of the cell. Preferred Properties: The textured surface includes surface features having dimensions of 0.05-2 times the thickness of the Si film. The SiO2 particles are 0.2-1.5 microns, preferably 0.65-0.75 microns in diameter. The crashed quartz are 0.5-0.3 microns, preferably 1.0-2.0 microns in diameter. The binding matrix has a thickness of 0.2-0.8, preferably 0.35-0.5 times the average diameter of the texturing particles. The barrier layer is applied at a thickness of 70 nm +/- 20 %, or equal to one quarter wavelength of light in the barrier material +/- 20 %. The Si film has a thickness of 1-2 microns, or 1-10, preferably 2-3 times the average of the features of the surface texturing.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Components: The dielectric layer is a silicon oxide (SiO2) layer. The texturing particles are monospheric SiO2 particles, or crushed quartz.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred System: The separator and the mixer are unified and heat generated by the separator is provided to the mixer. An alternative system has parts (a) - (c), (d') a mixed liquid generator which generates a mixed liquid of water in pre-reacted gas emitted from the exchanger and a medium whose solidifying point is up to freezing point and boiling point is higher than water, and (e') a generator which generates water vapor from the mixed liquid of the mixed liquid generator.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Fibers: The electrically conductive plate further includes short (less than 1 mm) reinforcement fibers selected from graphite/carbon or cotton. It is graphite powder with particle sizes of 80-325 mesh.Preferred Composition: The material composition further includes 0-5 wt.% carbon black.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Fibers: The reinforcement fibers are polymer.Preferred Binder: The resin binder is vinyl ester.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CERAMICS AND GLASS - Preferred Fibers: The reinforcement fibers are glass.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Plate: The bipolar plate further includes fluorochemical intermediates forming perfluoroalkyl groups on surfaces of the conductive plate.Preferred Composition: The material composition further includes fluorochemical intermediates selected from fluoroalkylacrylates or fluoroalkylolefins.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: The silica comprises a colloidal aqueous solution or a silica powder dispersed in water. The fibers comprise silica.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Composition: The fluorinated hydrocarbon polymer comprises a non-ion-conducting polymer(s). The non-ion-conducting polymer is made up of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), fluorinated ethylene-propylene (FEP), tetrafluoroethylene-ethylene (ETFE) copolymers, poly(vinylfluoride) (PVF) or poly(vinylidenefluoride) (PDVF).Preferred Ratio: The substrate comprises a colloidal silica to PTFE mixed binder. The ratio of silica to polymer is 95:5-5:95 %, preferably 70:30-30:70 % or 50:50 % based on w/w solid materials in the binder mixture.Preferred Binder: The mixed binder is in the form of a dilute aqueous dispersion of about 10 wt.% solids in the aqueous solution.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CERAMICS AND GLASS - Preferred Composition: The fibers comprise glass and having a diameter of 0.1-50 mum. EXAMPLE - A mixture of chopped silica fibers (Type QC9/33-20 mm) and silica microfiber (Q fiber, type 106) were dispersed with mixing in water (3000 ml). A non-woven matrix was fabricated from the resulting mixture in a single-step process, based on the principles of paper-making technology. The fiber sheet, as formed on the wire and while still wet, was sprayed with the mixed binder solution to give a loading of Teflon/silica mixture (0.68 g). The sheet was removed from the wire and the air was dried at 150 degreesC, then fired in air at 280 degreesC. The results showed a dimensional changes (x, y and z in %) of +15.8, +20.5, +39.0.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Property: The carbonaceous substrate in the electrochemical cell is greater than 1.2 V versus a Normal Hydrogen Electrode. Preferred Fuel Cell: The liquid feed solid polymer electrolyte fuel cell is a direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC).    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - IMAGING AND COMMUNICATION - Preferred Electro catalyst: The electro catalyst is an aqueous ink.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: The acidic aqueous solution comprises 0.5 M sulfuric acid (H2SO4).    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Composition: The proton conducting ionomer is a poly(perfluorosulfonic acid).    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - TEXTILES AND PAPER - Preferred Composition: The carbonaceous substrate comprises carbon fiber paper or carbon fiber non-woven.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - Preferred Electro catalyst: The electro catalyst is a platinum-ruthenium alloy. EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the method, the method further comprising impregnating the treated carbonaceous substrate with a proton conducting ionomer prior to incorporation of the electro catalyst into the electrode; and subsequently applying the electro catalyst to the treated impregnated substrate. The oxidation comprises immersing the substrate and a counter electrode in the acidic aqueous solution; connecting the substrate and the electrode to the positive and negative terminals of a power supply, respectively, thus forming an electrochemical cell; and directing electric current through the electrochemical cell. The oxidation of the substrate is performed electrochemically in an aqueous solution. The treated substrate is impregnated to produce an ionomer loading greater than 0.2 mg/cm2 of the poly(perfluorosulfonic acid). The electrochemical oxidative treatment comprises directing greater than 20 Coulombs/cm2 of the substrate.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Electrode: The electrode is an anode.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Reactant Stream: The reactant stream is a liquid fuel which is a methanol. Preferred Composition: The solution comprises 1 weight % of the first proton conducting ionomer in a solvent comprising an alcohol.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - TEXTILES AND PAPER - Preferred Substrate: The substrate is a carbonaceous which comprises a carbon fiber paper.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Ionomer: The first proton conducting ionomer is a poly(perfluorosulfonic acid).    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - IMAGING AND COMMUNICATION - Preferred Composition: The electro catalyst is an aqueous ink, which comprises a third proton conducting ionomer.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: The electro catalyst comprises platinum and ruthenium. EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the method, the method further comprising applying a second proton conducting ionomer to the impregnated substrate after applying the electro catalyst. The impregnating comprises dipping the substrate in a solution comprising the first proton conducting ionomer. The sum of the loading of the first proton conducting ionomer in the impregnated substrate and the loading of the second proton conducting ionomer applied to the substrate is from 0.4-0.6 mg/cm2. Loading of the third proton conducting ionomer in the impregnated substrate is less than 0.5 mg/cm2.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Adhesive: The elastomeric adhesive is a fluorolast, and both the adhesive and the sealant coating comprise a fluoroelastomer. Preferred Material: The fluid flow-field plate and the catalyst support plates are fabricated from a graphite material. EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the invention, the separator plate is provided adjacent to the flow-field plate to define coolant flow passageways in between and the separator plate being sealed in the areas of their peripheries by the elastomeric adhesive. The catalyst support plates have pervious peripheral portions impregnated with a fluoroelastomer. The fluoroelastomer is provided externally of the membrane electrode assembly and flow-field plates or water transport plates in a fuel cell stack.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: The mixed amorphous silica fibers comprise micro-fine amorphous silica fibers, chopped strand(s) of amorphous silica or a mixture of both microfibers and chopped fibers at 95:5-5:95, preferably 70:30-30:70 wt.% of the mixture respectively.Preferred Binder: The binder comprises a solution or dispersion of inorganic materials.Preferred Property: The fibers have a diameter of 0.1-50, preferably 0.4-9 microns.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Binder: The binder comprises a solution or dispersion of ion-exchange polymeric materials, non-ion-conducting polymers or their mixtures.Preferred Property: The total thickness of the membrane is less than 200 microns.Preferred Method: Step (ii) for manufacturing a membrane is carried out by a nip roller coating the substrate to fill it with a solution of ion-conducting polymeric material, and further compaction and drying of the membrane. EXAMPLE - A mixture of chopped silica fibers (type QC9/33-20 mm) (0.18g) and silica microfiber (Q fiber, type 106) were dispersed with mixing in water (3000 ml). A non-woven matrix was fabricated by the resulting mixture in a single-step process, based on the principles of paper-making technology, as a sheet size of 855 cm2 in a sheet former. The fiber sheet, as formed on the wire and while still wet, was sprayed with a binder solution comprising a 20 wt.% solution of colloidal silica (Syton T40AS) to give a loading of 0.1 g of silica. The sheet was removed from the wire and the air was dried at 150 degrees C.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The polymer layer is formed of carbon and fluorine. The fluorocarbon based conductive polymer is electrically conductive with a conductivity in the range of 10-4-10-8 (ohm.cm)-1.Preferred substrate: The substrate is glass, organic polymers, semiconductors, dielectric materials, metals, and metal alloys.Preferred fluorocarbon single gas: it is C3F8, C4F10, CHF3, C2F4, or C4F8. Preferably, the fluorocarbon gases are selected from dual gas sources which include a fluorocarbon gas having a high F/C ratio and one hydrogen or hydrocarbon gas.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - The material has a porosity of below 0.5 and comprises mutually bonded particles of size below 100nm, preferably as aggregates of size below 1mm, preferably below the wavelength of the visible spectrum and especially below 300nm. The oxygen can be stoichiometric or non-stoichiometric and the semiconductor is dosed and the optical properties, especially the RI, can be set by differential dosing. The material is in the form of a filler in a carrier, especially in an adhesive or a polymer. Production of the gas phase is by vaporizing the metal of the semiconductor in an oxygen atmosphere or when the compound contains oxygen the evaporation is in an inert gas, the evaporation being by heating, combustion, sputtering or electron irradiation. The partial pressure of the elements of the semiconductor in the gas phase and atmosphere is set in accordance with the desired particle size, the total pressure being between 1 bar and 10-2 mbar. The condensed material is mechanically comminuted to form the aggregates, preferably after dispersing it in a liquid or pasty matrix.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The material is in the form of a filler in a carrier, especially in an adhesive or a polymer, typical polymers being epoxy resins or polycarbonates. EXAMPLE - An electrode for use in an electrochromic device was obtained by (1) optionally mixing a compound such as InCl3, SnCl4, In-acetylacetonate or Sn-acetylacetonate with oxygen and decomposing the compound in a continuous gas stream in a flame such that the particles or agglomerates are collected on a filter prior to being mixed with a liquid or paste; and (2) dispersing the dried material in an optically transparent Araldite 2020 (RTM : epoxy resin) system and applying as a 5 mum layer onto a glass disc.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Material: The fuel cell is a polymer membrane fuel cell.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Process: The desorbed water is recycled as a vapor or liquid. The adsorbed water is desorbed by means of heated feed air for the fuel cell. An adsorbent is used for the adsorption present in a homogeneous charge applied on a carrier or as a homogeneous material in an ordered structure. The adsorbent is cooled after the desorption.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Components: The fuel cell stack (FCS) is a fuel cell of solid oxide, solid state, molten carbonate, phosphoric acid, alkaline or proton exchange member. The solid state or solid oxide fuel cell stack includes yttria-stabilized zirconia, a lanthanum gallate, a ceria based oxide, a bismuth based oxides and/or their composite.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred System: The power system has an assembly of FCSs with sequentially increasing operating temperatures of 20-2000degreesC. The stack has a cylindrical or rectangular cross-sectional shape or an array of tubular shaped fuel cells arranged from upper down to lower fuel cell, composed of a materials suitable for operation and disposed within the thermal enclosure of the outer fuel cell with spaced closer to the inner wall. The assembly has FCS adapted to generate exhaust from one FCS to the other. EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the apparatus, the FCS has electrolyte plates (20), interconnector plates (30), and manifolds axial (222, 224). The fuel manifolds (222) and air manifolds (224) introduces the reactants to the FCS. The electrolytes plates has an oxidizer electrode material and a fuel electrode on opposites sides. The interconnector plates for providing electrical contact is coupled to one or more fuel cell stacks in series to a reactant flow direction. The lip structure receives the reactants to electrochemically produce an electricity. Manifold(s) is disposed externally or internally to the FCSs for carrying fluid. The gas-tight enclosure includes thermal enclosure or a pressure vessel to collect exhaust from the FCS. A fluid blocking element (234) is disposed in FCS and positioned near to a manifolds to prevent the passage of reactant. A fuel and an oxidizer are supplied to the FCS.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred Method: A standoff is made on the substrate before the first positioning and the mask is placed into the standoff. A first charge is applied to the standoff and a second charge of same or opposite polarity is applied to the mask during the processes to facilitate contact between them or the moving of the mask. A lubrication layer is applied between the standoff and mask. The two processes are deposition or etching processes. The material deposited during the second process at least partially covers material deposited during the first process. The first position is measured relative to features on the substrate. The second position is displaced from the first position approximately parallel or perpendicular to the substrate. The x-y translator motors or piezo electric materials are used to move the mask. An organic layer is deposited on the first process and an electrode on the second process. The method is repeated until the deposition of a third electrode.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Component: The fluorite-type structure is PrO2-approximatelyd, Pr0.25Tb0.25O2-approximatelyd, Ce0.2Pr0.8O2-approximatelyd, Ce0.05Pr0.9Tb0.05O2-approximatelyd, Ce0.05Pr0.8Tb0.15O2-approximatelyd, Ce0.05Pr0.7Tb0.25O2 - approximatelyd, Ce0.05Pr0.6Tb0.35O2- approximatelyd, Ce0.04Pr0.7Tb0.25O2-approximatelyd, Ce0.03Pr0.6Tb0.35Zr0.02O2-approximatelyd, Ce0.01Pr0.5Tb0.35Zr0.05O2-approximatelyd, Ce0.05Pr0.15Tb0.75Bi0.05O2-approximatelyd, Ce0.09Pr0.1Tb0.8Mn0.01O2-approximatelyd, Ce0.2Pr0.05Tb0.74Cu0.01O2-approximatelyd, Ce0.1Pr0.09Tb0.8Nb0.01O2-approximatelyd, Ce0.15Pr0.03Tb0.8Fe0.01Ta0.01O2-approximatelyd, Ce0.2Pr0.2Tb0.55Zr0.04Ta0.01O2-approximatelyd, Ce0.2Pr0.05Tb0.65Zr0.08Nb0.02O2-approximatelyd, Ce0.2Pr0.17Tb0.6V0.01Ag0.01Mn0.01O2-approximatelyd, Ce0.1Pr0.1Tb0.75Zr0.02Nb0.01Mn0.02O2-approximatelyd, Ce0.3Pr0.15Tb0.5Pd0.02Cu0.02Y0.01O2-approximatelyd, Ce0.2Pr0.1Tb0.65Zr0.02Fe0.01Ag0.01Nb0.01O2 -approximatelyd, and/or Ce0.7Pr0.05Tb0.2Sm0.01Cu0.01Pd0.02Ag0.01O2 -approximatelyd. Preferred Process: The oxidation-reduction is repeated at least once. The gas impermeable barrier is heated at 500-750 degreesC. EXAMPLE - Oxygen release of several quaternary fluorite-type oxides, in their oxidized state were tested. These oxides were reduced in a flow of argon at 700 degreesC. The weight loss was associated with the release of oxygen. The oxides, Pr0.75Tb0.20Ce0.05O2-approximatelyd, Pr0.5Tb0.45Ce0.05O2-approximatelyd and Pr0.15Tb0.15Ce0.7O2-approximatelyd, has an oxygen yield of 2.8 wt. %, 2.8 wt. % and 2.0 wt. %, respectively, of the oxide per cycle.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The leads may consist of an electrically conductive polymer such as polyaniline.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Compound: The storage compound is 1-8C (alcohol, acid, aldehyde, ether, or hydrocarbon), a Fischer-Tropsch liquid, or Mobile gasoline. Preferably, the storage compound is methanol.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred System: The system further includes a regenerator comprising a fuel cell or a generator for the generation of electrical energy directly from the storage compound. The regenerator further includes a reactor to convert the storage compound back into hydrogen. The system may comprise an internal combustion engine attached to the storage compound store.Preferred Method: The storage compound or storage compound/water mixture in step (a4) is converted back to hydrogen and is used to generate electricity. EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the system, sunlight falling on solar panels is used to generate electricity to electrolyzed water forming hydrogen and oxygen. The hydrogen is reacted with carbon dioxide to form methanol or methanol/water mixture. The methanol or methanol/water mixture is stored in a tank, and then used as required, either directly in methanol fuel cell to produce electricity or dissociating into hydrogen and carbon dioxide, with hydrogen used in fuel cells.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Molded Articles: Particularly, the F/C in the low-temperature heat-sealable surface layer portion is 0.3-0.8, especially 0.4-0.8, while that of O/C is 0.14-.3, especially 0.14-0.25. The low-temperature heat-sealability appears at a temperature lower that the melting point of the non-perfluoro fluororesin molded article. Such non-perfluoro fluororesin is an ethylene-tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE) copolymer or polyvinylidene fluoride, which can be molded into articles particularly films.Preferred Cover Film: One surface of the film is formed with the low-temperature heat-sealable surface layer portion which particularly has a heat-sealing strength of not less than 360 gf/cm.Preferred Cover Laminate: The cover film is directly heat-sealed onto an ethylene-vinyl acetate film or sheet at a temperature below melting point of the non-perfluoro fluororesin. EXAMPLE - A 100 microns ETFE film (F/C = 1.1) was corona discharge-treated with 0.3 vol.% vinyl acetate or glycidyl methacrylate in nitrogen, at charge density of 0.3-8.3 Wsec./cm2 to give F/C being 1-0.1 and O/C being 0.1-0.42 while heat-sealing strength being 24-132 gf/cm, respectively, (optimum at 0.8 Wsec./cm2, with vinyl acetate, F/C at 0.8 and O/C at 0.17 to give heat-sealing strength of 539 g/cm). Further studies on the optimization are presented.
EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the process, the microelectronics fabrication is an integrated circuit, solar cell, ceramic substrate, or flat panel display microelectronics fabrication. The structures are formed from (semi)conductors or insulators. They comprise patterned conductive layers (42a, 42b, 42c) and the microelectronics layer is a low dielectric constant dielectric layer (34).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred apparatus: The gas stream direction (4,6) is in the same direction in the reforming device (1) and carbon monoxide removing device (2). The reforming device (1) and the carbon monoxide removing device (2) are each composed of two stages.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - The hydrogen absorbing alloy powder contains at least 10 weight % of at least one selected from rare earth elements, Ti, Zr, V, Mg, Ca, Y, Hf, Nb, Ta, Ni, Fe, Mn, Cu, Co, Cr, Al, B, C, Si, P, S, N, Pd, Pt.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - Preferred Method: The suspension of particles are applied by dip-coating, spin-coating or by flowing into the metal sublayer filled with a liquid which has a greater density and is immiscible with the liquid of the suspension. The pores of the metal sublayer are filled with a waxy material having a m.pt. below 120degreesC. Insoluble complex cyanides are applied to a support as precursor for alloy particles. A thin layer of enamel-forming oxide such as silicon dioxide, titanium dioxide or zirconium dioxide, or silver or oxygen-permeable silver alloy, palladium or hydrogen-permeable palladium alloy is applied to the wall of the pore mouths. After drying of the layer, the organic constituents are removed by oxidation at 400-700degreesC.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Method: A thin layer of silicon rubber or its titanium equivalent is applied to the walls of the pore mouths which is then pyrolyzed.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Method: The Fischer-Tropsch synthesis a low temperature Fischer-Tropsch synthesis, conducted at 210-275degreesC, preferably 230degreesC and pressure of 20 bar, using a catalyst selected from Fe, Co, Ni and Ru, preferably Co or precipitated Fe. The hydrocracked diesel and naphtha products are produced by selectively hydrocracking the wax. The straight-run diesel and naphtha products are produced by hydrotreating the condensate. The synthesis gas is obtained by coal gasification or by reforming natural gas.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - A porous polymer is a divinyl benzene polymer, a styrene-divinyl benzene copolymer, an alkylstyrene-divinyl benzene copolymer, or a styrene fluoride-divinyl benzene copolymer. EXAMPLE - A catalyst layer is manufactured so a given amount of porous polymer beads, a carbon-platinum catalyst, and a small amount of isopropanol are mixed and kneaded together. A given amount of PTFE suspension slurry is added in the slurry and mixed and dispersed. The paste is applied on a porous electrode substrate and after it is dried and pressed, heat treatment is applied.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Composition: Cyclic olefin type ring-opening polymer is a ring-opening polymer of norbornene group monomer in which the norbornane structure has at least one norbornene group monomer. EXAMPLE - Pellets of hydrogenated 8-methyl tetracyclo dodecene (MTCD) opening homopolymer was extruded from a extruder of 37 mm diameter at a screw rotation speed of 25 rpm, extrusion rate of 50 cm/second, cylinder temperature of 250degreesC and adaptor temperature of 240degreesC, to obtain a sheet of 30 mum thickness containing hydrogenated cyclic olefin type ring-opening polymer. Fluororesin sheet (102) was laminated on the protective sheet to form a multilayered structure. The obtained protective sheet had a Du Pont strength of -4%, all-optical line transmittance change of -1% and dimensional change of -1% which shows that the sheet had excellent weather resistance. The moisture-permeable degree of protective sheet before and after atmospheric exposure test was 0.30 g.mm/24 hrs.m2.atm. The variation rate of moisture-permeable degree in atmospheric exposure test was +20% which shows that the protective sheet had excellent damp proofing property.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred Materials: One of the materials is an organic semiconductor, which contains methyl-substituted perylene pigments or an organometallic complex compound, and the other material is a semiconductor oxide, especially indium-tin oxide or fluorine-doped zinc oxide.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Materials: One of the materials comprises perylene-3,4,9,10-tetracarboxylic acid-N,N'-dimethylimide or a phthalocyanine compound, especially zinc phthalocyanine. EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT, a photovoltaic double cell comprises a silicate glass substrate (10) bearing a layer system which comprises:    (a) a 10-200 nm thick transparent conductive oxide contact layer (20);    (b) a 10-200 nm thick perylene-3,4,9,10-tetracarboxylic acid-N,N'-dimethylimide semiconductor layer (30);    (c) a zinc phthalocyanine semiconductor layer (40); and    (d) a gold contact layer (50).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Member: The member is B, C, Si, P, S, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Mo, Zn, Ga, In, Sn, Be, Mg, Ca, Ti, V, Y, Zr, La, BeH2, MgH2, CaH2, TiH2, VH2, YH2 or LaH2.Preferred Complex: The AlH3 based complex is of formula (I):M = metal;X = 1 - 3;y = 1 or 2; andz = x or 2x.Preferred Composition: The composition has a molar ratio of hydride:member of 10:1 - 1:3. The member is alloyed with the hydride complex by ball milling.Preferred Method: The composition liberates hydrogen at a temperature of 80 - 180 degreesC. Step (c) is carried out at 80 - 150 degreesC and a hydrogen pressure of 20 - 100 atmospheres. Preferred Definitions:    M = Li, Na, Be, Mg, and Ca; and    X = 1 or 3.    SPECIFIC COMPOUNDS - AlH3-based complex hydride is LiAlH4, NaAlH4, Mg(AlH4)2, Be(AlH4)2, Zr(AlH4)2, Ca(AlH4)2, Li3AlH6 or Na3AlH6.    EXAMPLE - Sodium aluminum hydride (NaAlH4) was ball milled with an addition of carbon (C) in a high-energy ball mill SPEX 8000. The molar ratio of the hydride to C was 3:1. After ball milling the mixture was placed in a automated gas titration system and subjected to hydrogenation/dehydrogenation cycles. The material was able to desorb about 3 wt.% at 90 - 150 degreesC with an additional 1.5 wt. % released at about 160 degreesC. Rehydrogenation was performed at 80 atmospheres and 130 degreesC within 2 - 3 hours.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Process: The fuel cell comprises an electrolyte membrane between the anode and cathode. The cathode has a hydrophobic layer. The layer on the cathode side in the surface bordering the cathode has a lower pore size than the layer on the anode side. The layer on the cathode side is made of an aerogel or xerogel of carbon. The layer on the anode side is made of porous carbon paper.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: The metal is manganese, magnesium, zinc, copper, iron, nickel, silver, gold, platinum, palladium, iridium or rhodium. The superalloy is austenitic stainless steel, alloys of nickel and chromium, nickel-based alloys, and cobalt-based alloys. The metal layer is thick to prevent metallic interdiffusion under cell operating conditions having a thickness of 5 Angstrom -10 mum. The interconnect structure comprises a second metal layer between metal layer and superalloy metallic layer. The second metal layer comprising an additional metal, preferably nickel or copper which does not oxidize in a fuel atmosphere and having thickness of 25-125 mum.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Film: The semiconductor thin film is cadmium telluride (CdTe) thin film. Preferred Space: The space between source substrate and substrate (A) is 2-10mm. Preferred Substrate: The substrate (A) is substrate for film formation. Preferred Source Material: The source material is mixture of CdTe or cadmium and tellurium.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Compounds: The sulfonic acid group is perfluoro carbon sulfonic acid group resin. Preferred Process: A sulfonated agent is used in excess amount to introduce sulfonyl chloride group which is converted into sulfonic acid group by reacting with cross-linking agent containing sulfur. The sulfonated agent is chlorosulfonic acid or flurosulfonic acid.
EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT, the heating portion (3) generates the vapor mixture of methanol and water by heating reformate fuel. Heating portion is composed of a combustion portion (6) for generating heat for heating reformate fuel and a vaporizing portion (7) for vaporizing the reformate fuel using the heat generated by the combustion portion. The combustion portion may be configured so that a burner causes a heating fuel to burn or such that a catalyst oxidizes the heating fuel. A pump (8) feeds methanol and is connected to the combustion portion via an injector (9). An air feed portion (10) comprises an air pump. Further, a second pump (11) serving as a reformate fuel feed portion, for feeding the liquid mixture of methanol and water, is connected to the vaporizing portion. Vaporizing portion is coupled to the combustion portion such that heat can be transmitted in-between through a heat exchanger (12). The reforming portion (4) generates gas mainly composed of hydrogen, mainly by reforming reactions of methanol. The reforming reactions are a water vapor reforming reaction and a so-called partial oxidation reaction. In order to cause these reactions, a copper-based catalyst with an activation temperature of, for example, 280-300 degreesC is employed. The vaporizing portion supplies the catalyst with the vapor mixture of methanol and water. An air pump (13), for feeding oxygen for the partial oxidation reaction, is connected to the catalyst.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Components: Polymer B is a polyethersulfone of formula -Ar-O-Ar'-SO2-, a polyimide or a polyimide derivative. A membrane which after boiling in water for at least 50 minutes remains stable, i.e. its mechanical properties are hardly altered is preferred. The E-modulus of the membrane in the dry state at 23degreesC and 50% relative moisture content is at least 600. The E-modulus of the membrane (as determined from the increase in tangent at 1.2 MPa) in water at 60degreesC is at least 90 MPa and the breaking elongation is at least 200%. EXAMPLE - Sulfuric acid (3.49 kg) was added to a double mantel reactor,Vitrex(RTM: polyether ketone) was added to the solution, and the temperature was raised to 50degreesC, whereupon a clear red solution was obtained, to which was added oleum (20% free SO3)(2.40 g). As soon as the required degree of sulfonation was obtained the solution was cooled to 20degreesC and the polymer was deposited in distilled water. This was filtered off, washed to neutral, and dried at 60-120degreesC.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: The substrate is a metallic substrate. The electrocatalytically-active material is derived from platinum, cerium, ruthenium, non-noble group metals and/or its oxides. The material may also comprise mixtures of ruthenium oxide with at least one of titanium dioxide (TiO2), tin dioxide (SnO2), iridium dioxide (IrO2), antimony (III) oxide (Sb2O3), tantalum (V) oxide, palladium oxide, cerium dioxide (CeO2), cobalt (II, III) oxide (Ce3O4).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Battery: The battery, e.g. fuel cell (10), has compartments, barrier having a proton transporting moiety and which separates the compartments, electrodes, redox enzyme in the first compartment (1) to receive electrons from the first electrode (4), electron carrier in the first compartment in chemical communication with the redox enzyme, and an electron receiving composition in the second compartment (2) in chemical communication with the second electrode (5). In operation, electrical current flows along a conductive pathway formed between the electrodes.Preferred Method: The method further comprises monitoring the pH of the first compartment and controlling the amount of light directed to the light-driven proton pump such that more light is directed at lower pH values.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Protein: The proton transporting protein comprises a portion of the redox enzyme.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Method: The method involves crushing of a controllable amount of precipitated carbon and the return of this to the reaction chamber in a continuous process for maintenance of an optimum balance with regard to the amount and size distribution of carbon particles.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - Preferred Method: An adhesion layer is applied to the support plate before titanium oxide is applied. At least one of the layers is applied by high velocity oxygen flame spraying. Preferred Property: At least one of the applied layers has a thickness of at least 25 mum.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Layer: The adhesion layer comprises nickel/chromium/aluminum/yttrium.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: The hydrided composition comprises lithium and a metal, lithium and an element E or lithium and a metal and an element. It is represented by formula (I):LixMyHz (I)x = 1-5;y = 1-3;z = x+2yIt is preferably represented by formula (II);Li5Be3H11 (II)The molar ratio of Li to element E is 7:1-1:2. The hydrided composition is a hydrided mechanically alloyed composition of lithium and E which is in particulate form having been ball milled to a fine particulate size below 100 nm.Preferred Metal: The metal does not form an intermetallic compound or solid-state solution with lithium. It is Be, Mg, Ti, V or Zr.Preferred Element: The element E is C, B, Si, P, Zn, Mn, Ni, Fe, Cr, Cu, Al, Ca, Na or K.Preferred Method: The elevated temperature is 100-300 degreesC. Exposing is carried out at 100-350 degreesC under a hydrogen pressure of 5-60 atm. The method comprises ball milling a lithium component selected from elemental lithium or lithium hydride with a metal, an element E or both to form a lithium-based composition and, when necessary or desired, hydrogenating the lithium-based composition. EXAMPLE - Li5Be3H11 hydride was fabricated by ball milling lithium hydride and beryllium which were sealed under argon atmosphere in a vial of hardened steel with steel balls. The system was evacuated and kept under vacuum for 10 minutes. It was heated to 270 degreesC and hydrogen was admitted reaching a pressure of 30 atmospheres. A hydrogen capacity of 8 wt.% was achieved. The x-ray diffraction pattern of the material after hydrogenation has no traces of free lithium hydride, beryllium or beryllium hydride, which confirms formation of a different, complex structure. After releasing 8 wt. % hydrogen, i.e., decomposition, the material again consisted of lithium hydride and beryllium. X-ray diffraction patterns are obtained reversibly for the hydrogenated and dehydrogenated states of the material.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred embodiment: the laminate comprises at least one gas-tight conductive plate A and at least two conductive plates B. The gas-tight conductive plate A is on both outer-most layers of the fuel cell stack. The slit has an end that is open to outside on a plane of the conductive plate B. The fuel cell stack has an external manifold on a side, for gas to be fed to and discharged from each of the unit cells. A lug, formed by an end of the slit, is inside the external manifold. The electrolyte is a proton-conductive polymer electrolyte. The separator has a laminating surface sealed with a gas-tight material. The conductive plate B is a punched metal plate.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Base Film: The base film consists of resin having melting point higher than thermoplastic resin. Preferred Thermoplastic Resin Film: The thermoplastic resin film is ethylene vinyl acetate resin film containing cross-linking agent. Preferred Method: Another thermoplastic resin film is laminated on non-laminating surface of bilayered base film.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Method: A passivation oxide film (5) is formed on the front surface of the phosphorus-containing junction layer and the back surface of the P type silicon substrate. After the passivation oxide film is formed on the back surface of the P type silicon substrate, a p+ part (4) in a dot pattern in which aluminum is doped is formed on the back surface of the substrate by printing an aluminum paste in a dot pattern on the passivation oxide film, and firing so that aluminum may pass through the passivation oxide film and may be diffused in silicon of the P type silicon substrate.After the p+ part in a dot pattern is formed, a silver paste is printed on the entire back surface of the P type silicon substrate, and fired to form the back surface electrode which also serves as the back surface reflection layer.After the passivation oxide film is formed on the front surface of the phosphorus-containing junction layer, a front surface reflection preventing film (8) is formed on the passivation oxide film, and a silver paste is printed at the position corresponding to the n++ part of the phosphorus junction layer and fired so that silver may pass through the surface reflection preventing film and the passivation oxide film and may be brought into contact with the phosphorus-=containing junction layer, to form the front surface electrode of the n++ part.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Condition: The temperature and pressure in the reforming reactor is 400-600degreesC and 200-500 bar, respectively.Preferred Method: The CO2-rich gas stream is present at a pressure within 20-200 bar. The mixture in the reforming reactor is passed over a catalyst bed. The reaction in the reforming reactor is carried out without a catalyst. EXAMPLE - No relevant example given.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred embodiment: The fuel comprises hydrogen gas. The fuel cell assembly further comprises at least one membrane hydration enhancement zone comprising an uncatalyzed area of the membrane interposed between hydrophilic gas diffusion layers. The membrane hydration enhancement zone comprises deionized water and gas reactant streams directed over opposite sides of the ion-exchange membrane. At least one surface of the membrane is directly adjacent to a flow field plate surface. The reactant stream flows are strategically directed through the enhancement zone to maximize water vapor transfer between the reactant stream flows.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Solvent: The glycol solvent used can be preferably ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, or a polypropylene glycol.Preferred Coolant: The glycol solvent to water ratio in the liquid coolant is 1:1. The liquid coolant has a conductivity of less than 5 microS/cm.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Unit: The ion exchange unit comprises an acidic cation resin or an alkaline anion resin (preferably hydroxyl type 2 strong base anion resin).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Method: The shifting step is carried out in one step. The natural gas is supplied with an oxygen rich gas, preferably air/oxygen enriched air. The gas stream from a combustion chamber in an autothermal reformer is contacted with a catalyst bed. The reforming is carried out without a catalyst. At least part of nitrogen (N2) follows the CO2-rich gas stream.Preferred Composition: The ratio of water (H2O) to CO in the shifting step is 1:9, preferably 1.5-4. The carbon part in the H2-rich gas stream is 1-20, preferably 5-15 vol.%.Preferred Condition: The pressure in the CO2-rich gas stream after the separation is 5-50 bar. The gas stream out of the reformer has an interval of 800-1200degreesC.Preferred Reformer Reactor: The reformer reactor is particularly an autothermal reformer. EXAMPLE - No relevant example given.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - The intermediate plating layer is mainly composed of zinc, copper, tin or some combination of the three, using more than one plating reduces the ionization tendency from the aluminum based substrate. The noble metal layer can be silver.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Process: The amount of vapor produced is between 100 to 300 % of the amount required by the reformer to produce enough hydrogen for the fuel cell to produce the predetermined amount of energy. The maximum amount of the vapor produced is equal to the amount of vapor required by the reformer to produce enough hydrogen for the fuel cell when the vehicle is driven with maximum load.The heat source generates heat by burning fuel.Preferred Apparatus: The heat source is a carbon monoxide selective oxidizer (14).Preferred Controller: The controller controls the amount of CO and O2 supplied to the oxidizer. It also controls the amount of vapor introduced into the reformer. The controller (33, 43) further controls a water pump that supplies water to the vapor tank (32, 42) and controls a pressure valve (46) that adjusts a pressure of the tank. EXAMPLE - None given.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: The bifunctional material comprises an active component selected from noble metals or transition metals at 0.5-15 wt. %. It comprises a support selected from alumina, titania, silica, ceria or their mixtures with a surface area of 20-300 m2/g. It comprises a substrate selected from cordierite, alumina, zirconia or silicon carbide.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Method: The method preferably comprises sequentially channeling an initial amount of reformate into reactors comprising bifunctional material, chemisorbing carbon monoxide such that chemisorption capacity of material is reduced, passing a pre-heated oxidizing gas sequentially through the reactors, converting carbon monoxide to carbon dioxide, and regenerating the chemisorption capacity of the material in the reactor.Preferred System: The CO removal system further comprises a management system that controls fuel and catalytic processors. EXAMPLE - Adsorbent/catalyst with 6 wt. % Pt over Al2O3 was prepared as described in Heterogeneous Catalysis in Industrial Practice, by Charles N. Satterfield, McGraw-Hill, New York, 1991. It was calcined at 250-500 degreesC and reduced in hydrogen at 200-450 degreesC. 3.22 g adsorbent was packed into an adsorption-catalytic oxidation (ACO) bed. Synthetic reformate mixture having 123 ppm CO, 19.59% carbon dioxide (CO2), 37.06% hydrogen, 20% water and balance nitrogen were channeled through the ACO reactor at 80 degreesC at 2 L/min. During adsorption cycle, CO in reformate was completely removed until reactor was saturated. The level profile of CO from 100-750 s showed a thorough adsorption of CO by Pt/Al2O3 catalyst. Steady rise in CO levels from 750-1200 s revealed that bifunctional material's adsorption capacity was reduced. Hot air was introduced at 1200 s after near complete breakthrough of CO. Robust formation of CO2 at 1450 s indicated instantaneous CO oxidation.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Materials: The two catalytic materials comprise a metal component from noble metals and/or transitional metals.Preferred Support: The support is carbon black, titanium nitride, titanium aluminum nitride or tungsten carbide.Preferred Composition: The metal component is 0.1-5 mg/cm2 and the support is 2-70 wt.%.Preferred Properties: The support has a surface area of 5-100 m2/g and dispersion coefficient of 5-100%.Preferred Process: The step of producing an electrical current occurs before the electrode catalytic material saturated with CO. The step of producing an electrical current occurs galvanically or electrolytically. The processors are electrically connected in series and parallel pattern. The processors are stacked in modules and electrically connected in series in one of the modules, which is flow connected in parallel. The first portion comprises an anode cell and the second portion comprises a cathode cell.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Method: The crystalline photoelectric conversion layer is a crystalline silicon film with a crystallized volume fraction of more than 80% capable of being formed with the underlying layer at a temperature of 100 - 400 degreesC, containing hydrogen at 0.1 - 20 at.% and having a film thickness of 0.5 - 10 microns. A plasma discharging power density of more than 100 mW/cm2 is applied when the crystalline photoelectric conversion layer is deposited.At least one amorphous-type photoelectric conversion unit is stacked over at least one polycrystalline type photoelectric conversion unit. The amorphous-type photoelectric conversion unit includes a semiconductor layer of a first conductivity type, an amorphous silicon-based photoelectric conversion layer, and a semiconductor layer of an opposite conductivity type successfully deposited by plasma CVD.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Particles: The metal is preferably a noble metal or a Pt Group metal, especially platinum, silver, palladium, ruthenium or osmium or alloys of these. Depending on the application, the carbon content may be at least 50 wt.%, preferably at least 90 wt.%; or the metal content may be at least 70 wt.%, preferably at least 80 wt.%. The metal may be in the form of a disperse phase of size 5-50 nm in a carbon matrix. The carbon phase may be crystalline or amorphous. The impurity content of the particles is preferably no more than 0.1 atom%. No more than 1 wt.% of the particles are in the form of hard agglomerates.Preferred Particles Production: The carrier gas for the aerosol is nitrogen. The metal is Pt and the precursor is chloroplatinic acid, Pt nitrate, Pt sulfate or Pt oxalate. Alternatively the precursor may be Ag nitrate or Ag carboxylate or ruthenium nitrosyl nitrate. The carbon precursor is a C particle suspension where the C is semi-crystalline, graphitic or amorphous, or the precursor may be a C-containing solution. The aerosol is generated ultrasonically to form droplets of average size no more than 10 micron, or is generated through a nozzle atomizer to form droplets of average size no more than 50 microns. A typical apparatus comprises an aerosol generator, a furnace and a particle collector. EXAMPLE - A mixture was formed of 0.47 g Ag nitrate in 20 ml water and 20 ml of water containing 20 wt.% nano-size C black particles, to give an Ag/C ratio of about 9/91. The mixture was converted to an aerosol in N2 gas and heated to 500 degreesC. A black powder of average particle size 2-3 micron suitable for use in an electrochemical cell was recovered.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Condition: The pressure of the recombined hydrogen is greater than both of the ambient and feed pressures. Preferred Method: The method also includes (i) reversing the voltage across the membrane assembly so that carbon compounds are desorbed from the anode; (ii) removing the contaminated stream from the cell as effluent stream and introducing it to the anode of a second cell; and (iii) repeating steps (c) and (d) to form additional hydrogen. The two electrochemical cells, which are operated at different current densities, form a bipolar cell stack.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Condition: The voltage is 1.5 volts or less.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: Pt is present in an amount of 5-50, preferably 10-20 wt.%.Preferred Process: The addition of aqueous solutions of hexachloroplatinic acid and rhodium chloride and iron nitrate is carried out by initially adding a common solution of hexachloroplatinic acid and rhodium chloride to the suspension and precipitating out Pt and Rh by caustic soda, before iron nitrate is added to the suspension and precipitating by further addition of caustic soda. Step (e) is carried out directly after precipitating out Pt and Rh.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred System: The exchange part has a gas supply passage which brings reacted gas and non-reacted gas in opposed flow via the porous material. A cooling mean cools the porous material. The exchange part is arranged in contact with the cell stack. Specifically the single cells are laminated via a separator and a cooling plate where the separator has a gas supply means which opposedly passes the two reaction gases.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Catalyst: The catalyst is an oxide support of a mixture of zirconium oxide (ZrO2) and cerium oxide (CeO2) containing gold. The oxide support present in the catalyst is at least 50 %, preferably 60 % by mass of the catalyst. The ratio of CeO2:ZrO2 is 5:1-2:1. The gold is associated with the transition metal oxide. The catalyst also includes an oxide of titanium or molybdenum.Preferred Metal Oxides: The metal oxide is cobalt oxide or ferric oxide. EXAMPLE - A gold-based catalyst in a total or partial oxidation of methane as the fuel comprises (i) an active component of 1 % gold and 1 % cobalt; and (ii) a support of 44 % CeO2, 38 % CeO2/ZrO2, 15 % titanium oxide and 3 % other oxides. Test result showed that the activity of the gold-based catalyst of the invention for methanol reformation is superior as compared to platinum catalyst. The methanol conversion was 100 % at 50 degreesC having no residual products of carbon monoxide.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - The metals are sputtered on in Ar/O2, the bulk metal ratio of Pt:Ru is 2-10:1 and the surface oxygen % is 30-48%.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Material: The packing material contains ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer, polypropylene or a polyamide.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Substances: The conductive resin is thermosetting resin or thermoplastic resin containing carbon fiber, carbon particles, metal fiber and 5-50 volume percent of conductive metal powder. The thermosetting resin is phenol resin, epoxy resin or di-allyl phthalate resin. The thermoplastic resin is acrylonitrile butadiene styrene resin, polycarbonate resin, modified poly propylene oxide resin, polyacetal resin, polyphenylene sulfide resin or liquid crystal polymer resin.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Conditions: The solution is heated at 500-1400degreesC and the pressurized at 1 kgfdividemm2. Calcination is at 1000-1400degreesC.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Arrangement: Separate inlets are provided for supplying aqueous solution containing hydrocarbon and water, and hydrocarbon fuel . A spraying nozzle mixes the aqueous solution and the fuel and is connected selectively. An evaporator is configured in which water vapor is mixed with the fuel to be modified and combustor supplies heat of combustion to the evaporator for evaporation. The fuel to be modified is supplied to the evaporator through an injector (48).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Arrangement: Dough-nut shaped modification catalyst layers are arranged adjacent to each other in the direction orthogonal to the flow direction of the heating gas. A gas passage way formation means (86) is configured between the catalyst layers. The distributor functions based on the flow state of the heating gas. The gas introduction holes are provided in the inner wall which communicates with the modifying chamber along the periphery. The double layered wall in the flow path chamber has an aperture which communicates with the gas introduction hole. A feed hopper (60) for supplying the heating gas into the aperture from the exterior of the flow path chamber is provided in the outer wall. The modifying chamber is a horizontal structure which supplies heating gas in the horizontal direction.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - : Preferred Design: The adjacent arrangement of the catalyst layer is performed along the flow direction of the gas. Gas passage bypasses the catalyst layers. Gas supply flow path (68) is formed along the diameter of the modification catalyst and cone like cover portion (86) is formed at the center of the bifurcated modification catalyst layer. The modification catalyst layer and combustion mechanism (44) are placed concentric to each other. The combustion mechanism gas injects the supplying fuel to the combustion chamber (46) and air nozzle (52) for deriving air from the surrounding to the injector.
NUCLEAR POWER - Preferred reactor: The reactor includes an injector communicating the chamber to inject at least a portion of the O2 into the chamber for mixing with the streams exiting from the upstream segme
SPECIFIC MATERIALS - The oxide mixture preferably comprises (a) 40-50% SiO2, 30-40% MgO, 0-10% CaO, 0-10% SrO, 0-10% BaO, 5-15% B2O3, 2-6% Al2O3 and 2-8% ZnO; or (b) 40-50% SiO2, 25-35% MgO, 3-10% CaO, 0-10% SrO, 3-10% BaO, 5-15% B2O3, 2-6% Al2O3 and 2-8% Y2O3.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CERAMICS AND GLASS - Preferred Substrate: The substrate is transparent and made from silica and glass. The substrate is transparent to a light between 400-1000 nm.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Materials: The film of TCO is stannous oxide (SnO2) or cadmium stannate (Cd2SnO4). The film of semiconductor material is cadmium sulfide (CdS) or cadmium telluride (CdTe). The two films are transparent to a light between 400-1000 nm. The film of Zn2SnO4 has a thickness of 200-3000 Angstrom, preferably 1000 Angstrom. It has a sheet resistivity of greater than 1000 ohm/square.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Method: The film of Zn2SnO4 is deposited on the substrate using a radio frequency (RF) sputter coating of an amorphous Zn2SnO4 layer onto the film of TCO and heating the Zn2SnO4 layer and semiconductor materials to 400-700 degreesC, preferably 600 degreesC to induce crystallization of Zn2SnO4 layer into a uniform single phase spinel structure. SPECIFIC MATERIALS - The zinc stannate (Zn2SnO4) layer is a spinel crystalline of Zn2SnO4.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: The activated material is an electrochemical hydrogen storage alloy.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Method: The method further includes dehydriding the hydrogen storage alloy after hydrogenation. Hydrogen is introduced at 15-36, preferably 25 psi. The alloy is cooled to a hydrogenation temperature of less than 30 degreesC, so that 90 % of the particles are less than 75 microns. It may be cooled to a hydrogenation temperature to achieve a particle size of 1-100 microns having an average particle size of 35 microns. In the method for controlling powder formation of an electrochemical hydrogen storage alloy, the factor of loading is 0.95 representing a mass to volume ratio of 2/9 Kg/l and a powder layer thickness of 2.5 cm. The factor of pressure is 1, representing a hydrogen pressure of at least 36 psi; and the factor of hydrogenation temperature is 1, representing a hydrogenation temperature of at most 15 degrees C.
EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the system, each one of the bipolar plates has a flow field (12) defined by parallel grooves on the cathode side of the bipolar plate to uniformly distribute the air over the second surface of one of the MEAs and minimize pressure drops across the flow field. The hydrogen fuel gas supply includes a pump for generating a circulating flow of the hydrogen gas through a flow field in the anode side of each one of the bipolar plates. The recirculating system includes a water trap to separate water from the unused hydrogen gas. The blower includes a controller for controlling the air flowing through the fuel cell stack to provide temperature control for the fuel cell stack by evaporative cooling from the water adjacent the cathode sides of the bipolar plates. The system further includes a condenser for removing water in air exhausted from the fuel cell stack after reaction with hydrogen fuel gas.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - Preferred Materials: The plate is a nickel aluminum clad such that the first surface is nickel and the second surface is stainless steel. EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of this invention, the opposing sides of each base wall of each trough area and each trough member extend beyond the second and third walls. The first and second trough members are secured to the third and fourth sides of the central area by welding.
EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the method, a mesa etch process is used to form the recess down to a solar cell (102) substrate. A photoresist patterning process is used to form the first solar cell contact. A ceria-doped coverglass is bonded over the solar cell. The coverglass define a notch having an area at least the size of an area of the recess. A first interconnect is physically bonded to the first solar cell contact and to the first diode (104) contact. A second interconnect is welded to the second solar cell contact and to the second diode contact.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Method: The atomizing section is operable to produce a fuel steam mixture in which atomized fuel droplets form from an annular film which surrounds a core of steam. The fuel film moves at a velocity of about one half that of the steam core, the respective velocities of each being 15-153 m/s. The fuel droplets have a diameter of less than 10 microns. The superheated vaporizing stream is steam or steam and air and is preferably at a temperature of about 540 degreesC. The fuel reformer is an autothermal reformer.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Membrane: The homogeneously sulfonated poly(phenylene oxide) polymer has an ion exchange capacity of 2-3.5 meq/g. The weight ratio is greater than 1/9 and less than 7/13.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred System: The second zone has a reflective coating of silver and has a pyramidal configuration. The first zone has a square shape. The solar cells in the immersion medium are coupled together, preferably via gold or gold plated leads or an aluminium bus bar.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred System: The immersion medium is a silicone such as Dow Corning Silicone No.93-500 (RTM).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Steps: The step of designing each fuel cell stage to operate within a desired temperature range comprises (a) determining the temperatures of the process streams entering the process stream inlets of the stage; (b) containing within the stage a desired number of fuel cells; and (c) depositing a reforming catalyst within the fuel cell stage for absorbing heat. The step of under utilizing the fuel process stream in each fuel cell stage comprises utilizing less than 85% of the fuel contained in the fuel process. Preferred Method: The operating temperature range of an upstream fuel cell stage is at 345-800 (preferably 470-600)degreesC and the operating temperature of any downstream fuel cell stage is at 800-1100 (preferably 600-720)degreesC. The method further comprises the step of containing the system in a pressure vessel having fuel and oxidant stream inlets in fluid communication with the fuel and oxidant stream inlets of the first fuel cell stage, and fuel and oxidant stream outlets in fluid communication with the fuel and oxidant stream outlets of the last fuel cell stage. The first fuel cell stage has an operating temperature of 400-600degreesC, second fuel cell stage at 600-800degreesC, and third fuel cell stage at 800-1000degreesC. The total fuel utilization for the multi-stage fuel cell system is less than 85%, preferably greater than 90%.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Fuel Cells: The fuel cells contained within the fuel cell stages are solid oxide fuel cells.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - The fuel cells contained within the fuel cell stages could also be molten carbonate fuel cells.
EXAMPLE - A gas permeability gradient structure was produced from a 0.1-1.5 mm thick PTFE impregnated carbon fiber paper (4) of more than 50 (especially more than 70)% pore volume by hot pressing a 0.01-0.2 mm thick fluorinated thermoplastic film (3) onto the carbon fiber paper for partial blocking of its near-surface pores. Hot pressing was carried out at just below to just above the melting range of the thermoplastic and at 10-100 (especially 30-80) bars pressure. The modified paper surface was then coated with an electrode of catalyst-containing material (5) or applied directly onto an already catalyzed membrane.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: The organic noble metal complex is in an organic solvent. The ionomer is a tetrafluoroethylene-fluorovinyl ether copolymer having sulfonic acid groups. The noble metal is platinum, palladium, iridium, rhodium or ruthenium, preferably in the form of a Pt(0) complex that is decomposed at less than 200 degreesC. The Pt(0) complex is prepared by reaction of hexachloroplatinic acid with 1,3-divinyl-1,1,3,3-tetramethyldisiloxane. The carbon particles are carbon black, graphite or active carbon. The weight ratio of carbon particles to ionomer is 5:1-1:1 in the completed electrode. The noble metal has a loading of 0.01-5 mg/cm2. The weight ratio of noble metal to carbon particles is 1:10-4:1. The electrode is 1-100 microns thick. The polymer electrolyte membrane is coated on both faces to form a membrane-catalyst unit. EXAMPLE - A catalytic ink comprising 181.1 g of a 3.75 % solution of Nafion (RTM; ion exchange material) in propylene glycol, 16.0 g Vulcan XC-72 (RTM; carbon black), 22.1 g of a Pt-1,3-divinyl-1,1,3,3-tetramethyldisiloxane complex (Pt content 18.1 %, prepared according to US3,775,452 and US3,715,334) and 4.1 g sodium hydroxide solution was applied to both faces of a Nafion 115 (RTM; ion exchange membrane) by screen printing and dried at 110 degreesC. The resulting membrane-electrode unit had a platinum loading of 0.48 mg/cm2 and cell voltage of 598 mV for a current density of 500 mA/cm2. In comparison a membrane-electrode unit (prepared according to US5,234,777) had a platinum loading of 0.5 mg/cm2 and cell voltage of 436 mV.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: The electrolyte comprises a salt of formula (I), R-(Q-X-(CN)n)y y/mMm+ (I)and a matrix material.y = 1 or 2;X = C or N where n is 2 when X is C and n is 1 when X is N;R = fluorine, hydrocarbon or fluorinated hydrocarbon group;Q = linking group, preferably -SO2 or -C(O)-;Mm+ = cation with valence mIt further comprises conductive salt(s). The salt is of formula (II), preferably of formula (III):Rf = 1-12C perfluoroalkyl, preferably perfluoromethyl or perfluorobutyl;    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Group: The polymerizable group is optionally halogenated and selected from vinyl, allyl, vinylbenzyl or (meth)acryloyl. The halogenated polymerizable group is a perfluorinated polymerizable group. Preferred Definitions:    R = monovalent or divalent optionally fluorinated, optionally saturated 1-18C aliphatic, 3-12C cycloaliphatic-aliphatic where the aliphatic has 1-4C, the carbon chain of the (cyclo)aliphatic are optionally interrupted by a heteroatom (preferably nitrogen, oxygen or sulfur) and the (cyclo)aliphatic is optionally substituted by halogen atom or reactive group, aryl or arylaliphatic group with aliphatic group having 1-4C, or reactive group, preferably 1-12C perfluorinated alkyl, especially 1-4C perfluorinated alkyl;    SPECIFIC COMPOUNDS - The compound (IV) is preferably of formulae (V) or (VI):
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Nanocrystalline Material: (N) is indium tin oxide (1-25 wt.%) or antimony tin oxide (1-35 wt.%).Preferred Process: The process additionally comprises adding a film forming agent up to about 25 wt.% of (N) (preferably 5-15 wt.%). The film forming agent is soluble in organic and aqueous phases. The process additionally comprises of adding a diluent to the aqueous solution. The process of forming a transparent film additionally comprises of heating the substrate to remove water and diluent. The heating is done between about 300degreesC and 800degreesC to cure the nanocrystalline particles within the film. The film is additionally heated in a reducing environment to reduce the sheet resistance of the film. The film is additionally coated with silane monomers or oligomers.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred composition: The film forming agent contains at least one hydroxyl group, and comprises a cellulose-based polymer in an amount up to about 25 (preferably 5)wt.%. EXAMPLE - Doped indium oxide (100 g) was added to de-ionized water (400 g) to make a slurry (20 wt.%). This dispersion was mixed and centrifuged to obtain a concentrated aqueous doped indium oxide dispersion. This dispersion was formulated for coating by dilution to an appropriate weight percent with a diluent. These formulations were applied to substrates and dried at 120degreesC for 30 minutes or were heated between 350 - 800degreesC to cure the particles within the deposited film. The deposited films were coated with a silane oligomer and heated to 150degreesC in reducing environment for at least 25 minutes. Transparency results obtained showed a high degree of transmittance providing an optical transparency of 95%. The conductivity results were approximately 1x104 OMEGA/unit, 2x103 OMEGA/unit and 1x103 OMEGA/unit for films deposited and dried at 150degreesC, 300degreesC and 800degreesC respectively.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Catalyst: The average valence state of the iridium is less than 6. The iridium is supported on a carrier comprising alumina (Al2O3) or a mixture of alumina and sodium borosilicate (NaBSiO4). At least 2/3 of the iridium is present with a valence state less than +6. The average valence state of the iridium is less than 2 and greater than -1. At least three quarters of the iridium is present in a metallic iridium state.Preferred Reaction: The reaction is conducted isothermally on the catalyst maintained at a constant temperature, preferably 80-300 degrees C, more preferably 210-260 degrees C.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Medium: The gaseous medium comprises 5 vol.% methanol, 50 vol.% H2 and balance of one or more gases selected from oxygen, nitrogen, CO, carbon dioxide and water. Methanol is present in an amount of 0.5-2.0 vol.%. The temperature is at least 180 degrees C, preferably 180-260 degrees C. Heating is conducted for up to 2 hours.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - The hydrophobic phase includes hydrophobic gas passages composed of 35-65 wt.% of a high structure carbon black and 65-35 wt.% of a hydrophobic polymer. The hydrophilic phase includes liquid passages composed of 30-70 wt.% of a low structure high surface area carbon black and 70-30 wt.% of a proton exchange resin. The bilayer consists of 50-80 volume% of the hydrophobic phase and 50-20 volume% of the hydrophilic phase, both regions being discrete.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Materials: The gasket and the sub-gasket are support structures impregnated with an ion-exchange material, and are made up of thermoplastic polymers e.g., polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or expanded PTFE.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred Apparatus: The electrode is an electrocatalytic element comprising a conductive material, preferably carbon; a catalyst, preferably platinum; and a binder, preferably ion-exchange material. The apparatus further comprises a spacer frame disposed around an outer perimeter of the polymer exchange membrane; and a gas diffusion media disposed over each electrode.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Catalyst: The catalyst further contains a Fe2O3 sintering inhibitor selected from Al2O3, Cr2O3 and MgO. An Al, Cr or Mg water-soluble salt is used in step (a). The catalyst contains 2-8 wt.% Au. The catalyst has a BET specific surface area of 50 m2/g. The Au clusters have a diameter of less than 4, preferably 1-3 nm.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The refracting elements are made of acrylic.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred process: The reaction passage is separated from the air passage by the oxygen selective ion transport membrane element with the cathode side being adjacent to the air passage and the anode side being adjacent to the reaction passage. The reaction passage further includes flowing gas through the reaction passage and exothermically reacting the permeate portion with a constituent of the process gas in the reaction passage.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - The semiconductor material is GaAs.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: The melt includes at least one material selected from silicon, germanium and tin. The silicon pellets are delivered to the melt at a rate that is at least 0.4 g/min. SPECIFIC MATERIALS - The dendritic web crystal is a silicon crystal.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The sealant is a fluorocarbon and/or silicone based elastomer.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - All the layers and substrates are bonded together to form the assembly.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The frame gasket is made form PTFE
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred Device: The semiconductor is a dye-sensitized particulate semiconductor.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred bipolar plate: The canal (62) within the inner part of the bipolar plate (10) has at least the width other surface of the canal width contacting the canal edges on the surface of the bipolar plate (10) or preferably, the second surface width of the canal width contacting the canal surface on the surface of the bipolar plate (10).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Stack: The stack further comprises:(a) a pair of end plates on opposite sides of the cell laminate, which apply a compressive force to the respective unit cells of the laminate in a laminating direction;(b) a pair of current collectors that collect electricity of the respective unit cells, each collector having a specific part that pierces the end plate; and(c) a pair of insulating members, each member being interposed between the current collector and the end plate.The inlet manifold has a cross section gradually decreasing towards a downstream. The outlet manifold has a cross section gradually increasing towards a downstream. The inlet and outlet manifolds are respectively arranged on side faces of cell laminate and in parallel to a laminating direction of the respective unit cells. The manifolds are arranged around periphery of cell laminate, so as to bind the respective unit cells and reduce a contact resistance between adjoining unit cells.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CERAMICS AND GLASS - Preferred Materials: The oxygen-permeable layer (5) is made of perovskite. The reaction space comprises porous ceramic, glass, metal, carbon, a polymer, or their combinations; with similar materials or their combinations being used for the hydrogen-permeable layer (3).    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Materials: A polymer passes oxygen selectively. The reaction space may comprise a porous polymer.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - Preferred Materials: Catalyst-coating and hydrogen-permeable metal layers are required.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Feedstock: The feedstock is especially methanol.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - Preferred Component: The foam material is fabricated from a reticulated/interconnected web precursor coated with one of a metal and a ceramic material that is heated to remove the web precursor. The foam material comprises one of a metal and metal alloy from nickel, type 316 stainless, type 304 stainless steel, type 316 titanium stainless steel, nickel-chromium, copper, superalloys and/or oxide-dispersion-strengthened alloys. It is strengthened by solid metal wire(s), solid metal strips and ceramic fibers embedded in the foam material.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Component: The electrode support having a porosity of 15-97 % (preferably 50-97 %) has density gradient(s) and catalyst material disposed on the foam material.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Component: A tape comprising a mixture of lithium cobaltite (LiCoO2) and carbonate is provided. The cathode comprises at least two layers, a layer based on LiCoO2 and a layer containing (semi-)noble metal particles having nickel. Preferred Method: The part obtained is cooled to room temperature before combining with the other components of the cell. The layer containing (semi-)noble metal particles is directed towards the separator plate and the electrolyte is melted into the LiCoO2 under reducing atmosphere. EXAMPLE - Nickel powder, methylcellulose, Tween, tributyl phosphate and ethanol were mixed and demineralized water was added and stirred for half an hour to obtain a nickel suspension. The suspension was cast on top of LiCoO2 tape using a tape casting technique. After a green double tape has been obtained, an electrolyte tape having a mixture of LiCoO3, sodium carbonate and potassium carbonate was then applied on the LiCoO2 part. The electrolyte was melted under a reducing gas atmosphere above its m. pt. for 30 min. Cooling to room temperature then took place. The green LiCoO2/Ni tape was placed with the nickel side against a current collector when applying the electrolyte tape. The collector gave the package strength during subsequent transport and contact between the nickel layer, and the current collector was optimized.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - The anode seal power density is maintained at less than ca. 1.5 microW/cm2 by one or more regulating electrodes. The electrode(s) is/are an extended portion of the anode, or is separate from the anode, or is between the anode and the anode seal. The pressure of oxygen generated at the second surface of the solid electrolyte is greater than the pressure of the oxygen-containing gas at the first surface of the solid electrolyte. The oxygen-containing gas is air. The oxygen is withdrawn as a high purity pressurized product at a pressure at least 5 kPa greater than the pressure of the oxygen-containing gas. The oxygen-containing gas is a gas containing less than 20.9 vol.% oxygen. The oxygen-containing gas comprises argon and an argon product depleted in oxygen, withdrawn after contacting the oxygen-containing gas with the first surface of the solid electrolyte after the oxygen is removed by reduction and transport across the solid electrolyte. The argon product is obtained at a pressure equal to or greater than the pressure of the oxygen in the cavity of (h).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Reactor: The catalytically active layer (1) of the burner is made of porous material, the catalyst affecting oxidation being enclosed in pores of the burner. Layer (1) forms a support for the catalytic bed of the reformer.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred Condition: The thickness of the supporting material is at least 60 microns and that of the photovoltaic layer is 30 microns.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Material: The supporting material is polyethylene terephthalate or polyethylene naphthalate.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Component: The photovoltaic layer comprises cadmium telluride.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Sheet: The pressed flexible graphite sheet has a thickness of 0.075-0.2 mm. The channels of the flexible graphite sheet are partially filled with resin coke residue. The flexible graphite sheet includes a catalyst which promotes electrochemical activity of gases in the electrochemical fuel cell operation.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Fuel Cell: The fuel cell further comprises a fuel gas supply and a valve for controlling the flow of fuel gas supply. The fuel cell is serially connected to another fuel cell. The controller further comprises voltage and current sensors and an electrical switch. Upon sensing a given voltage and current output of the fuel cell, the controller adjusts the valve of the fuel gas supply. When the electrical switch is in the closed electrical position, the controller shunts current between the anode and cathode of the fuel cell and simultaneously causes the valve to stop the fuel gas supply. When the electrical switch is in the open electrical condition, the controller causes the valve to allow the continuous supply of fuel gas to the fuel cell. In another condition, the fuel cell has a duty and an operating cycle. The controller periodically shunts electrical current between the anode and cathode during the duty cycle to cause a resulting increase in the fuel cell 's power output. The electrical switch further comprises a field effect transistor (FET) and the controller further comprises a passive by-pass electrical circuit (preferably comprises a diode) that operates upon failure of the FET to shunt current between the anode and cathode of each fuel cell.Preferred Cycle: The duty and the operating cycles are 0.01 s - 4 min. Shunting is less than 20 % of operating cycle.Preferred Electrical Output: Electrical output of serially connected fuel cells increase by at least 5 %.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: The conducting component consists of the preformed layer material is made of graphite and/or carbon black. The preformed layer material contains fibers.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Resin: The resin is a phenol or epoxy resin.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Materials: The polymer plate material is selected from polysulfone, polyphenylene sulfide, polycarbonate, acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene, glass fiber-filled cross-linked acrylic polyester or a glass fiber-filled aromatic polyester such as polyethylene terephthalate or polybutylene terephthalate.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - The gas-impermeable body comprises a metal, a carbon material or a conductive resin, and can be surface-coated by a corrosion-resistant conductive material selected from at least one of gold, platinum, carbon, titanium, metal oxide, metal nitride and metal nitridePreferably, both the separator and the gas-permeable body are made of metal, and they are constructed by welding.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Substances: The first and second substances are each metal salt.Preferred Indicator: The ion concentration indicator is Phloxine B, a fluorescent pH indicator that is base sensitive.Preferred Medium: The medium is oxygen or reformate gas.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - Preferred Mixture: The mixture comprises a metal alloy.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INSTRUMENTATION AND TESTING - Preferred Method: The test composition is deposited on the substrate using an ink jet printer and emission radiation is measured optically.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Substrate: The substrate is Toray carbon.Preferred Medium: The medium is methanol.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Radiation: The excitation radiation is ultraviolet light.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Materials: The membranes are fluorinated membranes (e.g. of Nafion (RTM)), membranes of sulfonated polymers with (partially) aromatic backbones such as polysulfone, polyethersulfone, polyetherketone or polybenzimidazole, or membranes of sulfonated polymers such as polystyrenes. The inert coating of the interconnection structure consists of a polysulfone, polyethersulfone, polyetherketone, polybenzimidazole, partially or perfluorinated polymer (e.g. polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)), polyethylene, polypropylene or polystyrene.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred Material: The source material also acts as a reflective coating. It is a single layer of dielectric material carrying a dopant source. The dielectric material acts as a dopant source, a passivation layer and a metallization mask.Preferred Method: A source material acts as a surface passivation layer or is modifiable in situ to act as a surface passivation layer. Before step (b), a metallization pattern mask over the layer of dopant source material is formed. A doped passivation layer is provided with a dielectric layer formed over it to act as a metallization mask and the localized heating step disrupts both the doped passivation layer and the dielectric layer.The first heating step is performed with parameters chosen to result in a surface region doping level of 50-800 ohms per square (especially 80-200 ohms per square).The second localized heating step is performed by scanning a laser beam over the area of the device where metallization is to be applied.Preferred Laser: The laser is a continuous wave laser or a pulsed (Q-switched laser) laser. It is defocused or operated at a wavelength at which laser energy will be absorbed close to the surface of the substrate to prevent excessive ablation during the heating step.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Properties: The thru-plane resistivity of the water transport plate is approximately 0.02 ohm-cm. Its compressive yield strength is approximately 1050 psi. Its pore size is approximately 1.9 microns while its open porosity is approximately 40 volume percent. It has a bubble pressure of approximately 10.5 psig. The water permeability through the transport plate is approximately 200 x 10-17 m2. WIDER DISCLOSURE - A preferred method of manufacturing the water transport plate comprises mixing graphite powder, reinforcing fibers, cellulosic fibers and a thermosetting resin with a liquid to form a slurry. This slurry is showered onto a screen to form a planar sheet that is dried to form paper. This paper is cut into the desired dimensions and laid-up. The lay-up is laminated with pressure and heat, carbonized and then graphitized to form a water transport plate.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Apparatus: A heat exchanger (7) is attached to the post-combustion chamber (6), in which waste heat (Q) transported with the waste gas (60) from the post-combustion chamber is transferred to a heat carrier, especially water. At least one part of the return line (61) is connected to the heat exchanger. A ventilator (62) is located in the return line (61) between the heat exchanger and feed site. A minimal amount of waste gas is returned to the reforming process, where the hydrocarbons are not completely converted, especially 10-90%.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Apparatus: The gas-permeable structure (40) is a porous pipe made of metallic or ceramic material. The pipe has an open pore structure. The reformer is joined together by stacking elements, which are holders containing catalyst support granules.Preferred Catalyst: The catalyst is Pt, Pd, Ru, Rh, and/or Ni.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Reactor: One or both temperature chambers form sections of a temperature cycle for a temperature medium. A catalyst material is contained in the temperature chambers, where adjustment of the temperature level can be affected by a chemical reaction on the catalyst material. The catalyst material is present for CO oxidation. The catalyst material present in the reaction chamber serves for reforming hydrocarbons and H2O gas-shift reaction.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Apparatus: The reformer stage (12) forms a current-upstream part of a reaction chamber (1), in which the CO shift stage (10) is integrated as current-downstream part. The catalytic burner unit (3, 8, 9, 11) is formed as a stage for the selective CO oxidation of the reformate product.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Process: Sintering is carried out under a predetermined pressure (P), which is maintained during the whole of the sintering process, preferably at 2-20 N/mm2, especially 5-15 N/mm2. The reactor consists of at least two catalyst plates (10) produced by pressing catalyst material and sintered in a stacked state. The plates have projections in the region of neighboring plates. A device (16, 17) for supporting hollow chambers has hollow chambers formed in the catalyst plates or formed by two neighboring plates. The support device is a copper lattice (16) covered with a metal sheet (17).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Composition: The proportion of the rubber-modified phenolic resin is 5-50 pts.wt. per 100 pts.wt. of the conductive powder. The rubber modification degree of the phenolic resin is 10-90 %. The average particle diameter of the conductive powder is 10-100 micro m. The fuel cell separator has an elastic modulus in bending of 40-1 GPa and a deflection at rupture in bending test of 0.1-3 mm. EXAMPLE - A scaly graphite powder (100 pts.) having an average particle diameter of 30 micro m and an acrylic rubber-modified phenolic resin (30 pts.) having a rubber modification degree of 20 were mixed for 10 minutes using a mixer. The resulting mixture was placed in a mold of 200 x 200 mm and molded into a separator shape under a mold temperature of 160 degrees C, molding pressure = 150 kg/cm2 and a molding time = 5 minutes. The molding obtained showed the following properties: Bulk density = 1.78 g/cm3, resistivity = 30 mOhm/cm3; elastic modulus in bending = 8 GPa; deflection at rupture in bending test = 0.40 mm; Shore hardness = 25. Separately, a fuel cell separator having a thickness of 1.0 mm was produced in the same manner and used in a fuel cell, and the condition of this was good.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Silicon Grains: The silicon grains are columnar in shape and extend perpendicular to the plane of the film. They have a diameter of 90 microns to 3 mm and a thickness of 30-50 microns.Preferred Material: The first ohmic contact layer comprises silicides or carbides. It preferably comprises silicon (Si), silicon carbide (SiC), boron carbide (B4C) or graphite. The barrier layer comprises silicon oxide, silicon dioxide, sialon, silicon nitride, silicon oxynitride, silicon carbide or silicon oxycarbide.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred Method: The treatment comprises heating the layer of polycrystalline silicon to melt and regrow the silicon crystals.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Product: The nanotubes extend perpendicularly to, non-perpendicular to or parallel to the substrate, and have a diameter of 50-500 nm. The substrate is glass, silica, quartz, iron (alloy), cobalt (alloy), nickel (alloy), platinum or ceramic, preferably a glass plate or silicon wafer. All the nanotubes have a cap distal form the substrate made of iron (alloy), cobalt (alloy) or preferably nickel (alloy). The nanotubes are filled with hydrogen, lithium ions, bismuth, lead telluride or bismuth telluride.Preferred Method: The plasma treatment is applied at a pressure of 1-20 Torr. The carbon source gas is an (un)saturated linear, branched or cyclic hydrocarbon with up to six carbon atoms, preferably acetylene, ethylene or benzene. The catalyst gas is ammonia or nitrogen. The volume ratio of carbon source gas to catalyst gas is 1:2 to 1:10, and the substrate is exposed to the plasma at 300-700 degrees C. Prior to exposure to the plasma, the substrate may be coated with:(a) a catalyst film of iron (alloy), cobalt (alloy) or preferably nickel (alloy) by RF magnetron sputtering to a thickness of at least 15 nm; or(b) catalyst nano-dots of iron (alloy), cobalt (alloy) or preferably nickel (alloy) by electron beam evaporation, thermal evaporation or magnetron sputtering, each nano-dot allowing the formation of one nanotube.The nanotube diameter is directly related to the catalyst film thickness and the nanotube length varies in direct or inverse proportion to the plasma intensity. The cap is removed from the nanotube ends by nitric acid etching or argon ion sputtering. The nanotubes are enclosed after filling with a desired material by electrochemical deposition or magnetron sputtering of a metal.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOLOGY - The nanotubes may be filled with a pharmacological agent.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Components: The composite heat-absorbing/faceskin laminate comprises a laminate of at least one graphite fiber/resin prepreg layer and the outer heat-dissipating layer comprising a resinous layer containing powdered carbon. The layers contain epoxy or cyanate ester resins. The outer layer contains 1-5 wt.% (preferably 3 wt.%) of powdered carbon and has a textured surface which provides a dull, flat black appearance. The upper laminate (a) comprises an upper insulating film of a heat-resistant polymer (preferably polyimide) and at least one heat-curable prepreg layer comprising graphite fiber and a heat-curable resin.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Components: The honeycomb structure comprises aluminium. EXAMPLE - The preferred method for producing the lower heat dissipation/faceskin laminates comprises placing a textured-surface release layer of fabric coated with Teflon (RTM: polytetrafluoroethylene) of thickness 1-2 mils, e.g. Peel Ply (RTM) on the upper, heated surface of a conventional cure fixture, which can provide a curing temperature of 250-350 degrees F, applying a heat-dissipating base layer of a heat-curable epoxy resin containing 3 wt.% of powdered carbon and then applying prepreg layers, e.g. four layers, comprising semi-cured, self-supporting, thin, tacky prepregs comprising 60% graphite fibers and 40% epoxy resin. The cured laminate is removed from the release surface, which has provided it with a textured, dull, flat-black outer surface, and bonded to the underside of a honeycomb core via an adhesive layer. The upper laminate is formed by placing a high heat-resistant layer or preformed insulation film, e.g. of Kapton (RTM: polyimide) on the cure fixture and applying one or more layers of the above prepregs. The cured upper laminate is then bonded to the upper surface of the honeycomb with an adhesive layer.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred structure: The mounting location consists of a roof, wall, rack, beam or other surface structure.
EXAMPLE - 1,10-Phenanthroline-4,7-dicarboxylic acid was used as L1. To a solution obtained by dissolving ruthenium chloride (52 mg) in dimethylformamide (30 ml) was added the phenanthroline compound (103 mg). The mixture was then refluxed to form RuL12Cl2. The reaction mixture was then purified and dried to obtain RuL12Cl2 in the solid form.    a mixture containing Ru12Cl2 (200 mg), ammonium thiocyanate (500 mg) and dimethylformamide (30 ml) was refluxed for 4 hours to obtain RuL12(NCS)2 (150 mg). This was further treated with tetrabutylammonium hydroxide to obtain a compound of formula (IV):    RuL12(NCS)2 (IV)    L1 = 1,10-Phenanthroline-4,7-dicarboxylic acid in which one of the two R radicals is a hydrogen and the other R is tetrabutylammonium ion.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Component: The surface and core layers are integral part of the plate. The plate defines multiple coplanar flow fields. The core layer comprises multiple layers that are formed to provide passages in the second set. The passages of each first set are concentric and circular, single or multiple start helices. The set of first passages is provided to carry hydrogen and adjacent passages on the other side of the plate carry oxygen and water. At least one of the surface and core layers is formed of a metal resistant to corrosion under the operating conditions of a fuel cell. It is rendered conductive by metallizing with the corrosion resistant metal. The flow field plate (1) includes ports or permeation paths connecting the alternate and remaining passages of the first set. The passages receiving water of reaction during operation of the plate contain wicks. At least one passages of the second set contains heat pipe to conduct thermal energy.Preferred Method: The second set of passages is formed by drilling in the plane of the core layer. The plate is of sandwich construction and the surface and core layers are formed separately. The first and second sets of passages are also formed separately in the layers and the second set of passage is formed by slots or recesses in the core layer. The core layer is formed from compressible conductive material and the passages are pressed into the material. Each first set of passages is machined in the material of its respective surface layer.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Component: At least one of the surface and core layers is formed of graphite.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Screen: The thickness of the first layer is 0.089 mm or less. The openings and thickness of the second screen is larger than that of the first layer screen. The openings of the first and second screen layer can be elongated, diamond or oval-shaped.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Composition: The electrolyte (3) contains up to 99% salt and it comprises ceria-based oxide-salt compounds like gadolinium doped ceria (GCO-MClx) containing 1-50% salt. The electrode comprises binary oxides like AxByOz, LiM'O2, Ce1-xBxO2-y and La1-xSrxMnO3. It also contains halide and hydro-halide-based composite. The electrolyte (3) is sulfate-based for sulfur containing fuels. It is intended to operate as a high sulfate tolerant chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) device, acting as a pre-gas treatment station and combined with molten carbonate fuel cells (MCFC) power plants.M = lithium, sodium, barium or strontium; M' = nickel, cobalt or manganesex = 1-2    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Component: The oxide in the electrolyte (3) is any suitable salt like alumina or silicon dioxide. The salts are selected from salts that can make the salt oxide composite (SOC) material to function as a specific conductor for an ions and/or salts of various natural salts like sodium chloride and synthesized compounds having similar properties. The ions are particularly ions of hydrogen, oxygen or other ionic charge like cationic lithium, sodium, potassium or anionic carbonate, chlorine and fluorine.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred Component: The holes having a diameter of 25-125 microns are spaced apart by a distance of 1-5 mm. The substrate (22) has a thickness of 3-10 mils. The device (10) also includes: (a) a first electrical terminal communicating with the substrate member; (b) a second electric terminal communicating with the bottom electrode; and (c) an encapsulant (32) layer disposed on the transparent conductive layer. The semiconductor body includes: (i) at least two triad which are disposed in a stacked relationship and comprised of a layer of intrinsic semiconductor material and (ii) at least one layer of hydrogenated Group IV semiconductor alloy material. The electrical resistivity of the semiconductor body is at least of two orders of magnitude greater than the resistivity of the channels (38a, 38b). The insulating layer (24) comprises a layer of inorganic or organic material and the bottom electrode layer comprises a layer having a textured light reflective surface. Preferred Method: The channels are formed by directing a beam of light onto regions of the semiconductor body. The beam of light is directed by generating a coherent beam of light with a laser. The laser is a neodymium (Nd) yttrium-aluminum-garnet (YAG) laser and the coherent beam of light has a wave length of 1.06 nm. The channels are formed after the layer of transparent electrically conductive material (30) is disposed on the surface of the semiconductor body.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - The inorganic material is silicon dioxide, silicon nitride and/or aluminum oxide.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Cell: The support is acicular carbon fibers. A layer of conductive particles is formed between catalyst reaction layer and gas diffusion layer. A part of the layer which consists of the conductive particles penetrates into the gas diffusion layer. The material of the conductive particles is the same or different of the high polymer electrolyte thin film. Specifically the conductive particles are PTFE coated carbon particles. A hydrogen ion diffusion layer is formed on at least either of the catalyst particles in the catalyst reaction layer and the support. Specifically the hydrogen ion diffusion layer is formed by chemically bonding a silane compound to the above surfaces.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - The support is carbon particles having pores of up to 60 Angstroms diameter in an amount of up to 20% based on all pores whose specific area is 600-1200 m2/g. The platinum and ruthenium are supported on the support in an alloyed form. The ruthenium compound is a ruthenium salt.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Alcohol: The alcohol is methyl alcohol or ethyl alcohol. The heating temperature is near the boiling point of the mixed solution to which the alcohol is added.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Component: The metal foil (23) of the photovoltaic element is zinc foil or titanium foil. The layer of semiconductor material (14) comprises a layer of photo-sensitization material (15), particularly a photosensitive dye. The transparent substrate contains a foil of flexible plastic material.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: The semiconductor material (14) is zinc oxide or tin oxide and preferably titanium dioxide.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Material: The plastic material is polyethylene terephthalate (PET).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Process: Oxidation is performed in the presence of an oxidation catalyst. The purified hydrogen stream and air is passed to a fuel cell to produce electrical energy. Air devoid of oxygen is separated from water vapor present in the fuel exhaust. The reformate stream and purified hydrogen are cooled before passing to a separator and the fuel cells respectively. The exhaust gas is cooled before passing through the combustor. Heat released during the cooling of the reformate stream, purified H2 and/or exhaust stream is used to heat air devoid of oxygen, water vapor and/or fuel cell exhaust stream. Combustion gas and/or exhaust gas is expanded to release energy and the energy released is used to operate turbines and/or pumps.Preferred Catalyst: The catalyst is selected from noble metals.Preferred Arrangement: The combustor has a combustion zone for oxidizing exhaust gas and the combustion zones present in the reforming zone are separated from each other by surfaces.Preferred Combustor: The combustor comprises conduits located in the reforming zone for combusting the exhaust gas stream.Preferred Function: A cooler cools the reformate stream, purified hydrogen and/or exhaust gas. A condenser condenses water in the exhaust gas and back pressure device to maintain the pressure in the condenser from 100 kPa to operating pressure. A recycler directs the water vapor to a reforming zone from the fuel cell exhaust stream and/or water vapor stream.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - PREFERRED METHOD : The hydrogen-rich gas can be delivered to a carbon monoxide shift reactor (7) for further enrichment with hydrogen, and subjected to treatment steps to remove carbon dioxide and hydrocarbon. A molten carbonate or solid oxide fuel cell is used. A mixture of oxygen and nitrogen (preferably air) is supplied to the cathode, and the hydrogen-rich flow of gas is combined with a nitrogen-containing, low oxygen content flow of gas from the cathode, the resulting gas mixture being brought into contact with a catalyst for selective oxidation of any remaining hydrocarbon to deliver a flow of gas with a significantly reduced oxygen content which is then subjected to a carbon monoxide shift reaction. The flow of oxygen/nitrogen mixture and nitrogen-containing, low oxygen content gas is chosen to allow all the oxygen present to react with the hydrocarbon and carbon monoxide from the anode, and to provide a hydrogen/nitrogen molar ratio of 1:3 in the nitrogen and hydrogen-rich gas stream. Electrical loading of the fuel cell is used to control reaction conditions. EXAMPLE - None given.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - COMPUTING AND CONTROL - Preferred Apparatus: The apparatus further comprises a temperature detector for detecting the temperature of the heater (3), and a (S15) device for changing the amount of heat fuel (Qm) and the amount of the oxidizer (Qa) based on the detected temperature.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - COMPUTING AND CONTROL - Preferred Apparatus: The apparatus further comprises: a device for detecting a shortage in an amount of heat sufficient for heating the reformate fuel by the heat value when burning the emission containing unreacted flammable gas in the combustion portion; a device for supplying a heating fuel into the combustion portion when the shortage of the heat value is detected; a device for detecting the temperature of the combustion portion; and a device for stopping supply of the heating fuel to the combustion portion when the detected temperature of the reformate fuel exceeds a predetermined temperature.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - Preferred Alloy: The alloying element is ruthenium, iron, rhodium, cobalt, molybdenum, nickel or manganese.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - The zinc oxygen cell uses zinc as its another electrolyte selected from lithium hydroxide, sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide and cesium hydroxide.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The first layer is PTFE or polysulphone. It is filled with perfluorinated ionomer. This is a polytetrafluoroethylene with sulphonated perfluorovinylether side chains. Electrodes comprise carbonized fibers of polymer materials INORGANIC CHEMICALS - The fleece is saturated with 5 molar aqueous sulfuric acid or with concentrated phosphoric acid. The fleece is alternatively saturated with hydrated zirconium phosphate and ammonium hydrogen phosphate.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Component: The cylindrical former (2) acts as the anode current collector. The fuel cell system (1) also includes an outer porous hydrophobic layer to optimize the rate loss of water from the membrane electrode assembly. The hydrogen fuel source comprises one hydrogen store or hydrogen generator. The hydrogen source is provided in a replaceable cartridge. It comprises a metal hydride containing 2 wt.% H2, primary hydride, compressed hydrogen and hydrogen stored in carbon nanofibers. The membrane electrode assembly of the system comprises a catalyst of platinum deposited on a carbon support. The catalyst contains 0.2-1.0 mg of platinum per cm2. The current electrode and the former (2) comprise stainless steel. A fine wire mesh is provided in contact with the interior surface of the cathode current collector.The fuel cell system (1) further comprises an outer shell and a means for ensuring air flow to the fuel cell elements (4).Preferred Method: The method includes capping the ends of the fuel cell for connection to the equipment and coupling the fuel cell to the fuel source (3). It also includes applying the porous hydrophobic layer over the cathode current collector.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Component: The outer layer is chosen from perforated cellulose wrapping, expanded polystyrene or polyamide foam. EXAMPLE - No relevant example given.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Cell: The collector current has an open area of 55-65%. The collector screens are flexible and made of metal, slit or expanded titanium sheets. The slit and titanium metal sheets has a coating of titanium nitride. The collector screens contains layer(s) reinforced with the separator to at least 93% of the collector area. The pressing process is performed at 200-260 degreesC and hydrolyzing is performed before the electrodes are formed to unitary structure. The screens has an open region of 55-65 %. The collector screen is sole electrical conductor between adjacent cells. The collector screen is partially embedded in ion exchange polymer at anode contact region and cathode contact region such that the ion exchange polymer partially fills the pores of the polymer screen. The ion exchange polymer inter penetrates the feed through region to prevent the bulk flow of material between anode and cathode compartment. The ion exchange polymer is fluorinated sulfonic acid polymer. The pressing causes current collector screen to partially embed in thermoplastic ion exchange polymer at the overlapped region such that the polymer precursor partially fills the pores of the screen. The screens and sheets which are elongated are overlapped along the length direction and pressed to form unitary structure. Subsequently, the unitary structure is cut to predetermined length. The sheets and screens are positioned and pressed continuously. The polyurethane adhesive film is formed on the surface of the separator and pressed by heat and contacting to the periphery of the separator.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Cell: Total heat exchange is provided between fuel gas supplied to cathode side and exhausted gas from cathode side. Total heat exchange is provided via high polymer electrolyte thin film having a thin film thickness at most 25 micrometers.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Process: The porous semiconductor is formed by subjecting the surface of a (111) silicon wafer to anodizing. The crystal growth process is carried out by liquid-phase epitaxy. The deviation of the principal plane from the strict (111) plane is within 24'.Preferred Device: An angle formed by any arbitrary two cutting lines not coming into coincidence is represented by theta, the active layer having a cutting angle of Icosthetal = 1/2 or 31/2/2.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Composition: The preferred imidazole ring-containing polymer is a polybenzimdazole (PBI), preferably poly(2,2'-(m-phenylene)- 5-5'-bibenzimidazole) or poly (2,5-benzimidazole). The inorganic acid is preferably phosphoric acid. The polymer is doped with the substituted acid (1 to 10 molecules of acid per repeat unit of the molecular chain of the imidazole ring-containing polymer). The polymer electrolyte is made using a solution blend method in a trifluoroacetic acid solvent. SPECIFIC COMPOUNDS - A preferred acid is diphenyl phosphoric acid.    EXAMPLE - Diphenylphosphoric acid was added (3.24g) to a solution of PBI powder (2g) dissolved in trifluoroacetic acid (20 ml). After standing overnight the solution was cast onto a PTFE sheet and dried, producing a doped PBI membrane. The dopant was stable, not being eliminated under extraction in 1M aqueous methanol at 95 degrees C.
EXAMPLE - A pre-reformer (1) was supplied with 1 mol/mol CO2/CH4 and 0.7 mol/mol H2O/CH4 to provide a C:H:O ratio of 1:2.3:1.1. The resulting gas mixture was fed from the pre-reformer to high temperature fuel cells (2) and depleted fuel gas was fed from the high temperature fuel cells to a unit (3) in which part of its water content was separated by condensation. Part of the treated fuel gas was fed to a post-combustion chamber, while the remainder was injected, together with methane, by a return line (5) into the pre-reformer supply line (6). The heat, from the post-combustion chamber (4), was delivered to the pre-reformer (1) and to heat exchangers (8, 9). Air was supplied to and heated in the first heat exchanger (8) before supply to the high temperature fuel cells (2).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Metal Halides: The vaporized metal halides are chlorides.Preferred Ion Conducting Layer: The oxygen ion conducting layer consists of one of: (a) zirconium oxide stabilized with at least one oxide of scandium, ytterbium, samarium, gadolinium and/or praseodymium or is a solid state solution of rare earth oxides in hafnium oxide; (b) yttria-stabilised zirconia where the free halide is reacted with yttrium and zirconium; (c) complex oxides of formula ABO3, where A is calcium, strontium, yttrium, lanthanum or other lanthanide elements, and B is chromium, manganese, iron, cobalt, nickel, aluminium, gallium or indium.Preferred Oxygen Reactant: The oxygen reactant is derived from O2 gas, water vapor, carbon dioxide CO2 or oxide of praseodymium, copper, nickel, cobalt, iron, tin, zinc, manganese, lanthanum manganite, strontium ferrite, praseodymium cobaltite, lanthanum cobaltite or lanthanum nickelate.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Equipment: Each of the catalyst units has a honeycomb structure. The cell density of the upstream side unit is equal to or less than that of the downstream unit or higher that that of the downstream unit. The catalyst unit contains components for steam reforming, partial oxidation or decomposition, CO shift reaction and/or selective CO oxidation, preferably is heat-resistant oxide, especially alumina, silica, titania, zirconia, magnesia, zeolite, SAPO or ALPO, and at least one metal from Groups VB to VIII, IB and/or IIB, preferably CR, Co, Mo, W, Re, Zn or metals of Groups VIII, V or IB. EXAMPLE - A reformer with two or more catalyst units meeting the defined heat capacity relationship gave 68% conversion of methanol compared with 52% for a conventional reformer.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CERAMICS AND GLASS - Preferred Apparatus: Oxygen is supplied through a hollow ceramic fiber matrix, possibly having catalytic activity. High temperature-resistant materials permeable to and non-permeable to hydrogen are present.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Material: The non woven micro fiber material may be filled with a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) having sulfonated perfluorovinyl ether side chains.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Transition Metal Compound: The group 6-11 transition metal compound is a salt, halide, pseudo-halide, alcoholate, carboxylate or acetylacetonate. The transition metal is especially chromium, iron, cobalt, nickel, rhodium, palladium or platinum and the preferred alloy is iron/cobalt, iron/gold, platinum/ruthenium or platinum/tin.Preferred Organometallic Compound: The organometallic compound is derived from a group 1, 2 or 12-14 metal.Preferred Pre-synthezised Colloid: This colloid is based on iron, cobalt or nickel or their alloys and is protected from corrosion with a noble metal.Preferred Modifier: The modifier is an alcohol, carboxylic acid, polymer, polyether, polyol, polysaccharide, sugar, tenside, silanol, active carbon or inorganic oxide or hydroxide. Especially suitable modifiers are those which confer dispersibility to the colloids not only in aromatics, ethers, alcohols, ketones and pumping oils, but also in water and aqueous solutions.Preferred Colloids: Preferred colloids which are produced have a dispersibility of at least 20 mg atom, especially above 100 mg atom, per liter as well as a particle diameter below 2 nm. EXAMPLE - Pt(acac)2 (3.83 g) was dissolved in toluene (250 ml) under argon and treated drop-wise over 24 hours with AlMe3 (2.2 g) in toluene (50 ml) at 40degreesC. Volatiles were removed in a vacuum to give a Pt colloid (6.1 g) as a black powder containing 30.9 wt.% Pt and 13.4 wt.% Al. The Pt colloid was protolyzed with 1N HCl (200 ml), giving 1342 Nml of gas (95.9 mol.% CH4; 4.1 vol.% C2-C3 gases.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Equipment: The chamber of the heat exchanger comprises an upper and lower circular tubes being connected by a vertical tube (24) having a passage. A pump is included for facilitating circulation of a water-vapor medium in passages of the side arm tube and the inner circular tubes located within the passage of both of the upper and lower circular tubes. The heat exchanger further comprises a water conduit for allowing the flow of water. The conduit further comprises a hydrophobic layer for permitting free flow of water vapor. The reactor/exchanger system further comprises a shear mixer and a recirculator in the chamber (14) through which product gas enters the chamber and is thoroughly mixed with water before reaching the catalyst in the chamber; and a reservoir at the lower end of the chamber for receiving and holding water through which the product gas passes.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Materials: The ceramic material is chosen from zirconia, alumina, silicon nitride, silicon carbide, titanium carbide, tungsten carbide, titanium nitride, silicon-aluminum oxynitride, graphite, titanium diboride, boron carbide and molybdenum disilicide. The ceramic material preferably comprises zirconia stabilized with yttria, ceria, calcia or magnesia or their mixtures. The metallic material comprises intermetallic materials chosen from titanium-niobium alloy containing 45% or 35% titanium, copper containing alloy, chromium-copper alloy, beryllium-copper alloy and dispersion strengthened copper. The braze material additionally comprises at least 3% niobium and is preferably chosen from 50-50 Ti-Ni material.Preferred Conditions: The braze material is heated preferably at 1000-1100 degreesC for about 2-30 min and then gradually cooled. A pressure of 2000-5000 psi is applied on at least one of the interface surfaces when the braze material is heated.Preferred Component Assembly: The ceramic and metallic materials are hermetically sealed through an intermediate layer comprising 50-50 Ti-Ni alloy. The assembly has an interface zone comprising the braze material and granular structures dispersed in the sealing alloy material. The granular structures have high niobium content.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Method: The catalytic activity of the electrode is enhanced by compulsively decreasing the output voltage of the fuel cell from 0-0.3 V per unit cell. The voltage is intermittently decreased in succession. The wetting condition is given to the electrolyte is given by immersing and boiling the fuel cell in a deionized water or a weakly acidic aqueous solution (especially H2O2-water) and boiling. Alternatively the wetting is given by introducing deionized water or a weakly acidic aqueous solution having a temperature higher than the operating temperature of the fuel cell into the gas supplying path. An alcohol is introduced into a gas supplying path before the deionized water or weakly acidic aqueous solution. Alternatively ion exchange group in the electrolyte is SO3H and the weakly acidic aqueous solution is dilute H2SO4. EXAMPLE - An investigation was conducted on the cell performance obtained by varying the duration of time when output voltage of the cell was compulsively decreased. When a range of compulsively decreased voltage was 0-0.3 V per unit cell, the cell demonstrated almost equivalent performance to the case of using pure hydrogen.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Apparatus: The reforming unit (18) has a mixer (20) for the raw material (28) and an oxygen-containing material, especially water and/or air. The raw material is methanol or gasoline.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Cell: The amounts of nickel and stabilized zirconium oxide deviate by less than 5 vol.%.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Process: Hydrogen is fed as fuel to a fuel cell to produce electrical energy and heat.Preferred Fuel Cell: The fuel cell is preferably of the phosphoric acid type, proton exchange membrane, solid polymer or any other suitable type.Preferred Reactor: The partial oxidation/reforming or partial oxidation/reforming/shift reactor is a fixed bed reactor or any other type which consists of tubes in the internal wall where the catalyst is deposited and in the external wall the same or another catalyst is deposited or more than one catalyst in series.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Catalyst: The catalyst contains a group VIII metal or a transition metal oxide, either supported or not.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Materials: The carbon fiber substrate includes 0.01-0.15 grams of wettability preserving compound chosen from oxides or hydroxides of aluminum, silicon, tin, niobium, ruthenium, tantalum, tungsten or their mixtures.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Method: To produce films that conduct both ions and electronics, the film is bombarded with acceptors or donors by a second ion source and these are implanted between the implanted elements from the first source. The donors and acceptors may be passed over the substrate surface, rather than directly to the second ion source. It is also possible to pass a mixture of elements with donors and acceptors directly to the first ion source; and to bombard the film with elements, acceptors and donors in a composition varying with time.Conditions: Implantation is carried out in vacuo at 10-6-10-2 mbar (disclosed). SPECIFIC COMPOUNDS - Specific examples of the acceptors are trichloroferrate (FeCl3), fluoride (F), pentafluoroarsenate (AsF5), tetrafluoroborate (BF4) and perchlorate (ClO4). Specific examples of the donors are alkali metals.    EXAMPLE - Bombardment of polysulphone film with sulphur S+ and oxygen (O+) ions at an extraction potential of 60 keV and pressure of 10-4 mbar gave a proton conducting film. Bombardment with carbon ions gave an electron conducting film. The dose of implanted particles = 1016-1022 particles/cm2, according to the properties required.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - The compound film is stable at a temperature upto about 500 degreesC, and has work function in the range of 1.7-3.5 eV.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Structure: The microstructured surface preferably has connected grooves or channels e.g. as a net. This is achieved in an underlying semiconductor substrate or in an underlying insulating layer. Masking, lithography and etching techniques, deposition techniques such as sputtering, or electrochemical or photo-electrochemical etching are preferably used to obtain the micro structure. Sputtering gives a natural microstructured and uneven surface. Preferred Method: The underlying layer is treated by fast drying or heating until it cracks so that it becomes uneven. The sensor is preaged or initiated by heat to restructure the outer conductive layer to a stable configuration with essentially only conductive material in the trenches or groves in the structure in continuous contact over the sensor area. Structural changes are prevented by working away the metal layer on the protrusions or ridges of the microstructure using a polishing step like mechanical or sputtering polishing with oblique angle of incidence. The conductive layer is deposited onto a surface that has been given a surface morphology that forces the final conductive layer into a well-defined structure and prevents the final conductive layer from restructuring. Preferred Sensor: The conductive layer is shaped into an interconnected net of conductive material that is recessed into the underlying layer by polishing away the outer conductive layer on the tops or protrusions of the microstructure.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Oxidant: The oxidant is an oxygen-containing gas. The oxidant is preferably air, nitrous oxide, nitrogen dioxide, nitric oxide, carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, sulfur trioxide or steam and is especially air.Preferred Core: The monolithic ionically conductive core is an oxygen ion conductive ceramic core, a proton conductive polymer core or a proton conductive ceramic core. The oxygen conductive ceramic core is prepared from yttria-doped zirconia, rare earth-doped cerium oxide or rare earth-doped bismuth oxide. The proton conductive ceramic core is prepared from barium cerate, strontium cerate or rare earth cerate. The proton conductive polymer core is prepared from a perfluorinated ionomer. Preferred Composition: Both the electrically conductive coating (serving as the cathode) and the electrically conductive material (55) comprise lanthanum manganite, strontium-doped lanthanum manganite, dispersed noble metal, dispersed noble alloy, carbon or ruthenium oxide. Both the electrically conductive material (serving as the anode) and the electrically conductive material (60) comprise nickel-dispersed doped zirconia, nickel-dispersed yttria-doped zirconia, dispersed noble metal, dispersed noble alloy, carbon or ruthenium oxide.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Fuel: The fuel is hydrogen or a 1-20C hydrocarbyl compound.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Conditions: The monolithic mass and energy transfer cell is heated at 25-90 degreesC.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred features: The solvent is DMSO, N,N'-dimethylformamide or ethylene glycol added at 80-98 wt% of the PFSI solution and the slurry has a viscosity exceeding 1000 cp. The PFSI polymer comprises 15-35 wt% of the total slurry solids, the electrode backing layer is wet-proof carbon paper of teflonized carbon-loaded cloth, coating is by doctor blade, spray, screen printing or brush, drying is at 140-180degreesC and hot-presssing is at 100-135degreesC.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Process: Hydrogen is formed in the cathode chamber in the presence of an inert gas atmosphere. An electric current is withdrawn from the anode and cathode.Preferred Cell: The anode is formed from compressed carbon powder containing a metal catalyst, preferably at least one of molybdenum (Mo), cobalt (Co), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), copper (Cu), chromium (Cr), tungsten (W), nickel (Ni), iron (Fe) or manganese (Mn), by the sol-gel technique. The conducting membrane is perfluorosulfonic acid or polybenzimidazole. The cathode is also formed from pressed carbon powder loaded with catalyst (preferably platinum).Preferred Conditions: The anode and cathode chambers are maintained 125-165 degreesC, 20 psi. EXAMPLE - An GDE 21 anode comprising MoCoSx/C (5.8 mg/cm2) and a cathode comprising Pt/C (4 mg/cm2) were bonded to a conductive electrolyte to form Membrane Electrode Assembly (MEA). 99.8% of pure H2S and 99.8% oxygen were passed at 3 atmospheres pressure and 130 degreesC into a fuel cell containing the electrodes. The cell had an open circuit potential EOC of 713 mV, an electric current (J) of 200mA/cm2 and maximum power (Wmax) of 40mW/cm2.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Alloying is in H2 at 500-900 degreesC or in Ar at 900-1200 degreesC.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - This method can be used on the following materials(1) Aluminum(2) Stainless steel(3) Titanium(4) Inconel (TM)(5) Nickel-chromium
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - The first electroconductive material is thermal expansion graphite, a base metal or an electroconductive ceramic and remains conductive when oxidized. The coating or the base material may have a rough surface.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The second coating material contains an acid resistant resin consisting of at least one of acryl resin, polyester resin, urethane resin, phenol resin and phenol-epoxy resin.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: The additional element is included in the composition at 1-15 atomic%. The additional element is preferably Al, Ca, Ce, Cu, Dy, Fe, La, Mn or Nd but most preferably carbon added at 3-15 atomic%.Preferred Material: The hydrogen storage material is a multiphase material having at least one amorphous phase. The storage material is obtained by mechanical alloying in a milling apparatus in the presence of an inert atmosphere such as argon or a mixed atmosphere such as argon and hydrogen (disclosed).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Materials: The reflective sheet is formed of a thin-film polymer (preferably polyimide or polyester). The tether comprises a metal-impregnated polyamide fiber.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Materials: The reflective sheet carries a reflective coating comprising aluminum. The elongate structure is formed of a graphite and fiber composite. EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the invention, the inner spring is a resilient, electrically-conductive, and elongate structure which forms a conduction path away from the reflective sheet. The inner spring is a helical spring which forms a conduction path away from the reflective sheet. The tether is coupled between the panel perimeter and the outer part and the angle is 120 degrees.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Method: The spacer is previously arranged on and fixed to the back plate.Preferred Battery: The set of photoelectric conversion cells are formed in a region within the deposited metal electrode layer's region.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - Preferred Materials: The spacer is formed of aluminum foil. The back electrode of the thin-film photoelectric conversion cell is formed substantially of silver.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Material: The spacer is formed of Teflon.A back sealing resin filler or an organic back protection film of a dark color selected from black, brown and wine red protects the transparent electrode layer, the semiconductor layer and the metal electrode layer of the solar battery.A sealing resin layer and an organic protection film are successively stacked on the inorganic protection film of the thin-film photoelectric conversion cell.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: The semiconductor layer of the solar battery contains silicon as a main component. The inorganic protection film of the thin-film photoelectric conversion cell contains one of gold, platinum, aluminum, titanium, silicon dioxide, aluminum oxide and zinc oxide preferably titanium.The photoelectric conversion unit of semiconductor includes a photoelectric conversion layer formed of hydrogenated amorphous silicon or an alloy thereof, or crystalline silicon.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - A solar battery is formed by sealing a cell for the solar battery, using the sealing film between a clear protective member at its top surface side and a protective member at its bottom surface side.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Materials: The water-resistant layer is ethylene-propylene diene monomer (EPDM). EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the invention, bearing(s) is associated with the second side and an electrical connection unit is arranged between the first and second sides. A clamp is used for clamping solar panels to the bearing having lath(s) (L) extending across the second side. A water resistant layer (17) is arranged over the second side and the laths of the system.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred film: The clear flexible resin: consists of an ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer resin. The depth is a difference between the topmost portion of the projected portion and the deep most portion of the recessed portion.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The clear flexible resin composition: consists of an ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer resin. Preferred clear filler: one or two or more selected from the group consisting of glass beads, a milled fiber, crosslinked polystyrene particles, crosslinked methyl polymethacrylate, and crosslinked silicone particles. A solar battery is formed by sealing a cell for the solar battery, using the sealing film between a clear protective member at its top surface side and a protective member at its bottom surface side. The sealing film is provided between the cell and the protective member at its bottom surface side.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - The power generation plant converts variations in water level into electrical energy.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Power cables are brought to the dry chamber at top of bouyant part, where switchgear and transformer could be located. Site connection could be run as armored cable taken off to shore or next installation.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Tile: The tile, which corresponds in size to several standard tiles, has not less than 2 spaced and partly over-lapping water channels in different planes and overlaps.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - The circuit provides photovoltaic conversion of incident solar energy into electrical energy.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - The waste heat collector may be coupled in series with solar collectors for providing thermal energy from incident solar radiation.
EXAMPLE - Typical fluorine resin contains poly tetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), berfluoroalcoxy resin (PFA) consisting of tetrafluoroethylene-berfluoroalkylvinylether copolymer, and a tetrafluoroethylene-berfluoroalkylvinyl-ether-hexafluoropropylene copolymer (EPE).
EXAMPLE - Poly tetrafluoroethylene, berfluoroalkoxy resin formed of a copolymer of tetrafluoroethylene and berfluoroalkylvinylether, tetrafluoroehtyleneethylene-berfluoroalkylvynilether-hexafluoropropylene copolymer, and a tetrafluoroethylene-ethylene or propylene copolymer are used in a fluorine resin sheet.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - The frames are steel or aluminum.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred Components: The first and the second region is a drain or a source. The third region is a gate. The transparent conductive material is a conductive film. The field-effect transistor is built upon an insulation substrate. The transistor further comprises a sixth region, made of transparent conductive material, connected between the second region and the insulation substrate. The n+ region is interposed between the second and the fifth region.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Materials: The transparent conductive material is an indium-tin-oxide (ITO) film and the opaque conductive material is chrome or aluminum.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CERAMICS AND GLASS - Preferred Material: The insulation substrate is made of glass.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: The substrate is silicon. The Schottky barrier layer is a silicide.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred encapsulant: The encapsulant is selected from ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, polyisobutylene, polyvinylbutyral and silicone.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Tile: The tile is glass, glass composite, polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polycarbonate (PC) or polyethylene terephthalate (PT).    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Coatings: Coatings comprise metals, oxides or nitrides, titanium dioxide and/or coloring.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred Component: Nanocrystalline injection solar cells are included.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Production: The production of the photosemiconductor product comprises:(a) applying mold hardening to the hardening composition to encapsulate the photosemiconductor element and part or the whole of the photosemiconductor-mounted electrode; and(b) applying mold hardening to the epoxy resin on the photosemiconductor encapsulating material.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Layer: The insulating layer comprises oxide.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Molded Articles: Particularly, the F/C in the low-temperature heat-sealable surface layer portion is 0.3-0.8, especially 0.4-0.8, while that of O/C is 0.14-.3, especially 0.14-0.25. The low-temperature heat-sealability appears at a temperature lower that the melting point of the non-perfluoro fluororesin molded article. Such non-perfluoro fluororesin is an ethylene-tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE) copolymer or polyvinylidene fluoride, which can be molded into articles particularly films.Preferred Cover Film: One surface of the film is formed with the low-temperature heat-sealable surface layer portion which particularly has a heat-sealing strength of not less than 360 gf/cm.Preferred Cover Laminate: The cover film is directly heat-sealed onto an ethylene-vinyl acetate film or sheet at a temperature below melting point of the non-perfluoro fluororesin. EXAMPLE - A 100 microns ETFE film (F/C = 1.1) was corona discharge-treated with 0.3 vol.% vinyl acetate or glycidyl methacrylate in nitrogen, at charge density of 0.3-8.3 Wsec./cm2 to give F/C being 1-0.1 and O/C being 0.1-0.42 while heat-sealing strength being 24-132 gf/cm, respectively, (optimum at 0.8 Wsec./cm2, with vinyl acetate, F/C at 0.8 and O/C at 0.17 to give heat-sealing strength of 539 g/cm). Further studies on the optimization are presented.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: The gate-insulating layer is an oxide layer (115). The gate electrode is tungsten, titanium, or polysilicon. The first silicide layer is tungsten silicide, titanium silicide, platinum silicide, or cobalt silicide. EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the device, the device further comprises a lightly doped drain (LDD) region; first sidewall spacers (123); second sidewall spacers (125) defined adjacent to the first sidewall spacer; a second silicide layer (127) overlying the gate electrode and the lightly doped drain region (117) or source/drain regions (107); and source/drain regions. The LLD, first sidewall spacers and source/drain regions are defined adjacent to the gate electrode. The length ratio between the first silicide layer and the gate electrode is 5:4.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred Device: The first and second doped regions are delta-doped regions. The channel layer is uniformly doped and is delta-doped. The delta-doped regions are equally spaced apart from the channel layer. The doping densities of the three layers have a ratio of approximately 2:3:1. The first delta-doped region is about 3 nm away from the third. The first layer has a thickness of about 17 nm. The second silicon delta-doped layer is about 3x1012 atoms/cm2. The doping density of the first silicon delta-doped layer is 2x1012 atoms/cm2. The doping density of the indium gallium arsenide epitaxial layer is about 1012 atoms/cm2.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Substrate: The detector has substrate of aluminum oxide, silicon carbide, gallium arsenide, silicon, magnesium oxide, zinc oxide, lithium gallium dioxide, magnesium aluminum oxide, gallium nitride, indium antimony, indium arsenide, gallium antimony or indium phosphide. Preferred Layer: The buffer layer is indium antimony and is doped with magnesium, zinc, berrylium, silicon, germanium, or tin.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Base Film: The base film consists of resin having melting point higher than thermoplastic resin. Preferred Thermoplastic Resin Film: The thermoplastic resin film is ethylene vinyl acetate resin film containing cross-linking agent. Preferred Method: Another thermoplastic resin film is laminated on non-laminating surface of bilayered base film.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Generator: The indoor heat and electricity generator further comprises a control for regulating fuel flow from source to converter assembly. It further comprises supply channels connecting the mixing and combustion chambers of supplying fuel-air mixture to the combustion chamber. It further comprises infrared radiation from the infrared emitter being incident on the thermophotovoltaic cells for producing electricity. It further comprises a furnace or stove for receiving the thermophotovoltaic generator insert. Preferred Cells: The thermophotovoltaic cells are GaSb cells.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Material: The packing material contains ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer, polypropylene or a polyamide.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred Component: The optoelectronic component is a diode-type semiconductor device. The component comprises an optical component situated (preferably lens or optical fiber) on the optical operating surface of the pixel. The component is protected through encapsulation with an optoelectronically inactive sol-gel material.Preferred Material: The hybrid material has a polymer that is sensitive to optical radiation chemically attached to harden and pattern the sol-gel by optical radiation.The material affecting the optoelectronic properties is an organic semiconductor and is, e.g., tris-(8-hydroxyquinolinato) aluminum or N,N'-diphenyl- N,N'-bis(3-methylphenyl) 1,1'-biphenyl-4,4-diamine.Preferred Method: The hybrid sol-gel is spread on the electrode as a thin film by spinning, spraying or dipping. The second electrode is formed by a liquid phase, a gas phase, a contact weight, a conductive paint or printing of electrodes.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred Component: The organic photo-imageable insulating layer (33) is a negative resist layer. It is transparent to all visible wavelengths and its dielectric constant is less than 3 (preferably 2.7). The photo-imageable insulating layer has a thickness of 0.9-2.7 mum and the intermediate insulating layer is 100-1000 Angstrom thick. The overlap distance is 0-2 mum and the address line-electrode capacitance (CPL) is less than 12 fF (preferably less than 9).The LCD also comprises:(a) a contact vias (35) photo-imaged in the photo-imageable insulating layer and etched in the intermediate insulating layer (32);(b) a second group of contact vias; and(c) a second substrate.The gate and drain lines crisscross on the first substrate and the pixel aperture ratio of the LCD is at least 68%. The TFT array structure also includes means that permits the insulating means to be photo-imaged.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Component: The organic photo-imageable insulating layer includes 2-ethoxyethyl acetate, benzocyclobutane (BCB) or mixture of 2-Ethoxyethyl acetate, methacrylate derivative copolymer and polyfunctional acrylate.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Component: The intermediate insulating means includes silicon nitride, silicon oxide or SiOxNy.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred Condition: The thickness of the supporting material is at least 60 microns and that of the photovoltaic layer is 30 microns.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Material: The supporting material is polyethylene terephthalate or polyethylene naphthalate.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Component: The photovoltaic layer comprises cadmium telluride.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Component: Layer (7) consists of an aluminum oxide or silicon oxide layer with a thickness of 30-200 nm, transparent in the visible and near-UV range but absorbing shorter-wavelength UV light. Preferred layer (7) is a layer of SiOx in which the Si/O ratio (x) = 1.3-1.7.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Composition: Sealing layer (4') lies between cell system (2) and barrier layer 6 and preferably consists of ethylene/vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymer. The oxide layer (7) faces the cell system (2). Layer (7) may be in direct contact with the adjacent sealing layer (4') or there may be a primer layer (12) between them, or layer (7) may be enclosed between two layers of plastic film or compound foil (6, 11), at least one of which acts as the barrier layer (6); in this case there may be a layer of adhesive (10) between layers (7) and (11). Suitable materials for the plastic film base for the barrier layer (6) are, e.g. polyethylene terephthalate (PETP), polyvinyl fluoride/PETP compound foil and ethylene/tetrafluoroethylene copolymer. EXAMPLE - A barrier layer (6) was formed by coating ethylene/tetrafluoro-ethylene copolymer (ETFE) film (20 microns thick) with a layer of silicon oxide (SiOx) by vapor-phase deposition, using electron beam irradiation at 10 kV and 220 mA. ETFE film with an oxide coating 320 nm thick showed practically no transparency to UV light with a wavelength of less than 350 nm, combined with significant transmission from 450 nm upwards, rising to 80-95% in the range 550-800 nm. In film of this type, the water vapor permeability was reduced by a factor of about 100 compared with uncoated ETFE film.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preparation: (IC) are prepared by allowing cyclopentaquinolinone, in isolated form or prepared in situ, to react with substituted 1,2-phenylenediamines (III) in solution or in substance in an acid solvent (claimed). In the case of asymmetric (IC), cyclopentendihydroxyquinoxalinone (IV) is oxidized to cyclopentaquinoxalintrione (V), as described by B. Eistert, H. Fink, H.-K. Werner, Liebigs Ann. 1962, 657, 131-141; scheme 2, then condensed with (III) as shown in scheme (A):Symmetric or asymmetric (IA) and (IB) are prepared by reacting (symmetric or asymmetric) (IC) with a methylene compound or amine of formula (II):in organic solvent, e.g. ethanol, glacial acetic acid and toluene, optionally in the presence of a catalyst, e.g. triethylamine, piperidine, titanium tetrachloride, p-toluenesulfonic acid, alkali alcoholate and sodium hydride (all claimed). Examples of organic solvents used in the preparation of (IA) and (IB) are ethanol, glacial acetic acid and toluene. EXAMPLE - 2 g (5.44 mmol) (2,3,8,9-isomeric)-diisopropyl-12H-cyclopenta(1,2-b:3,4-b')-diquinoxalin-12-one were heated to 90degreesC in 60 ml glacial acetic acid. 0.42 g (6.36 mmol) malonitrile was added and the mixture was stirred at this temperature for 36 hours. A precipitate formed after about 6 hours. After cooling, the product was filtered off and washed with 20 ml glacial acetic acid and 25 ml methanol. 1.7 g pure 12-dicyanomethylene-(2,3,8,9-isomeric)-diisopropyl-12H-cyclopenta(1,2-b:3,4-b')-diquinoxaline (IA with X = C, Y, Z = CN) were obtained.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - The semiconducting material for the substrate is gallium arsenide (GaAs). The materials for the layers are alloys with aluminum or indium of the type AlxGa1-xAs and InyGa1-yAs.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The encapsulant is ethylene vinyl acetate and a backsheet may be polyvinyl fluoride    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - The contacts may be copper, the conductive adhesive either lead tin solder or epoxy filled with silver, gold, or carbon particles    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - The conductive adhesive may contain particles of carbon Glass is used to cover the solar cell array.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Materials: The reflective sheet is formed of a thin-film polymer (preferably polyimide or polyester). The tether comprises a metal-impregnated polyamide fiber.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Materials: The reflective sheet carries a reflective coating comprising aluminum. The elongate structure is formed of a graphite and fiber composite. EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the invention, the inner spring is a resilient, electrically-conductive, and elongate structure which forms a conduction path away from the reflective sheet. The inner spring is a helical spring which forms a conduction path away from the reflective sheet. The tether is coupled between the panel perimeter and the outer part and the angle is 120 degrees.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred Component: The device includes a heat sink (2), a low thermal conductivity material plate between the high thermal conductivity plates, and a middle plate having a low thermal conductivity zone. The electrical connections have non-cosinterable materials. The thermal conductivity of the lower and upper plates is enhanced by including isolated features formed in the bottom and top surfaces. The isolated features are formed by punching or embossing vias in the plates such that voids are generated during sintering. They consist of high thermal conductivity metal paste or metal paste yielding a low theoretical density during sintering which is etched out and backfilled with a high thermal conductivity metal. The blocks comprise alternating blocks of n- and p-type semi-conducting materials, or two different metals, or metal alloys having different Seebeck coefficients.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: The high thermal conductivity plates comprise an aluminum nitride material. The high thermal conductivity metal can be a copper, gold or silver.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CERAMICS AND GLASS - Preferred Composition: The low thermal conductivity zone comprises a low thermal conductivity green sheet having different material compositions selected from aluminum oxide ceramic, zirconia based ceramic, fugitive phase materials, carbon, high starting oxygen content aluminum nitride, large particle size aluminum nitride, aluminum nitride without sintering aids, and small hollow glass spheres.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Component: Rear and front contacts are positioned between and connected to at least a portion of the two semiconductors, respectively. The monolithic solar cell comprises a monolithic triple junction solar cell, which includes a third semiconductor.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: The rear contact (16) is molybdenum, aluminum, silver, platinum, zinc oxide or tin oxide. The front contact (30) has a transparent conductive oxide consisting of zinc oxide and tin oxide. The n-i-p or p-i-n amorphous silicon-containing thin film conductor is hydrogenated amorphous silicon, hydrogenated amorphous silicon carbon, or hydrogenated amorphous silicon germanium. The second semiconductor comprises a n-i-p semiconductor having hydrogenated amorphous silicon germanium. The third semiconductor comprises a hydrogenated amorphous silicon germanium.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Resin: Seal and photovoltaic cell consists of tetrafluoroethylene ethylene(ETFE) copolymer poly fluoride vinyl resin (PVF), polyvinylidene, fluoride resin (PVDF), poly tetrafluoro ethylene resin (TFE), tetrafluoro ethylene hexafluoride propylene copolymer (FEP), polytrifluoro chloroethylene resin (CTFE). Also polyolefin type resins like ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA), ethylene unsaturated fatty acid copolymers, butyral resin, urethane resin, silicone resin etc.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - Preferred Metallic Foil: Metallic foil is made of oxygen free copper like C1020P. EXAMPLE - The metallic foil with thickness of 100-120 mum and vickers hardness of 60, 80, 120 was used during manufacture of solar battery. Specific resin was coated on the photovoltaic cells to thickness of 50 mum using vacuum lamination apparatus. The module is inspected under dynamic load for usual cycles, which indicates the resistance improvement of photovoltaic cells against bending, even under installation in outdoors.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Method: The spacer is previously arranged on and fixed to the back plate.Preferred Battery: The set of photoelectric conversion cells are formed in a region within the deposited metal electrode layer's region.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - Preferred Materials: The spacer is formed of aluminum foil. The back electrode of the thin-film photoelectric conversion cell is formed substantially of silver.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Material: The spacer is formed of Teflon.A back sealing resin filler or an organic back protection film of a dark color selected from black, brown and wine red protects the transparent electrode layer, the semiconductor layer and the metal electrode layer of the solar battery.A sealing resin layer and an organic protection film are successively stacked on the inorganic protection film of the thin-film photoelectric conversion cell.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: The semiconductor layer of the solar battery contains silicon as a main component. The inorganic protection film of the thin-film photoelectric conversion cell contains one of gold, platinum, aluminum, titanium, silicon dioxide, aluminum oxide and zinc oxide preferably titanium.The photoelectric conversion unit of semiconductor includes a photoelectric conversion layer formed of hydrogenated amorphous silicon or an alloy thereof, or crystalline silicon.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - A solar battery is formed by sealing a cell for the solar battery, using the sealing film between a clear protective member at its top surface side and a protective member at its bottom surface side.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - The emitter comprises TiHx, VHx, ZrHx, NbHx, TaHx, ScHx, YHx, ThHx, UHx, rare earth hydride or mixture thereof, and has high phonon energy spectra.The collector comprises metal, metal alloy, semiconductor, or doped semiconductor material.The barrier comprises Si, n-Ge, p-Ge, n-GaAs, n-InAs, n-GaSb, n-InSb, Sb, n-PbS, n-PbSe, p-Cu2O, p-Se, n-CDs, DySi2, IrSi3, HgxCdx-1Te, p-Ge, amorphous B, LaB6, YbB6, Pd2Si, n-PdTe, p-GaAs, InP or mixture thereof.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Component: The semiconductor layer contains silicon. The first electrode layer comprises a transparent conductive oxide. The second electrode layer comprises a metal, a laminate comprising metal layers, or a laminate comprising a conductive oxide layer and a metal layer. Heat treatment is done in air at 150degreesC for at least 20 minutes. Parts of the semiconductor and electrode layers are removed by laser beam irradiation at room temperature.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred film: The clear flexible resin: consists of an ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer resin. The depth is a difference between the topmost portion of the projected portion and the deep most portion of the recessed portion.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The clear flexible resin composition: consists of an ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer resin. Preferred clear filler: one or two or more selected from the group consisting of glass beads, a milled fiber, crosslinked polystyrene particles, crosslinked methyl polymethacrylate, and crosslinked silicone particles. A solar battery is formed by sealing a cell for the solar battery, using the sealing film between a clear protective member at its top surface side and a protective member at its bottom surface side. The sealing film is provided between the cell and the protective member at its bottom surface side.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Compound: The diamine compound is preferably (Ia), (Ib) or (Ic):X = Br or I.Preferred Method: Compounds (IV),(V) or (VI) are coupled with (IIIa) or (IIIb). Alternatively compounds (VII) or (VIII) is coupled with (IIIb). EXAMPLE - 7.023 g of carbazole, 8.12 g of diiodide biphenyl, 35.528 g of potassium carbonate and 10.396 g of copper chloride were added to 20 ml dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) under nitrogen atmosphere and heated at 140-170degreesC for 3 hrs. The reaction mixture was subsequently cooled to room temperature, 100 ml of water was added and filtrated. The filtrate obtained was dissolved in 100 ml methanol. 98% of light gray solid filtrate (111c) was obtained. 4.855 g of (IIIc) and 2.31 g of 60% nitric acid were added to acetic acid. The mixture was heated at 65degreesC for 2 hours and cooled to room temperature. The solid formed is separated, washed with water and dried. 95% of pale yellow solid 111c was obtained.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Power cables are brought to the dry chamber at top of bouyant part, where switchgear and transformer could be located. Site connection could be run as armored cable taken off to shore or next installation.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Components: One elastic seal (17) consists of silicone rubber or a cured hot melt adhesive and the other elastic seal (16) consists of butyl rubber.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Composition: The reaction is carried out at temperatures greater than 80 degreesC, in a temperature range higher than typically acceptable for such reactions. The preferred monomers are 2,2-bis(3,4-dicarboxyphenyl) hexafluoropropane dianhydride (I), bis(4-aminophenyl) sulfone (II), and bis(4-(3-aminophenoxy)phenol) sulfone (III). The preferred ratio of (II):(III) = 85:15 to 65:35 by weight. The preferred organic polar solvents are dimethylacetamide (IV), dimethylformamide, tetrahydrofuran, dioxolane, or mixtures of them. The coating or film demonstrates at least 70% transmittance at 440 nm for a film or coating thickness of 10-30nm, and a yellowness index of less than 40. EXAMPLE - Diamines (II) and (III) at a ratio of 70:30 were charged into a reactor along with solvent (IV). The mix was agitated under a nitrogen atmosphere at a reflux temperature of 30degreesC until the diamine fully dissolved. (I) was added at approximately 1:1 molar ratio with (II) and (III) and the reaction was heated to 90degreesC and maintained there for 60 minutes forming a polyamic solution, which was cooled and stored at about 0degreesC. The solution was degassed and then coated onto a release coated glass plate to a thickness of 30 mum. The plate was placed in an oven at 120degreesC for 60 minutes, then 200degreesC for 10 minutes, 250degreesC for 60 minutes, and finally 300degreesC for 30 minutes. Once the process was complete the plate was cooled and the film peeled off. The film had 94% transmittance, a yellowness index of 4, and passed the toughness test.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Materials: The conducting pathways are made of silver, silver alloy, copper or copper alloy. The insulating coating consists of a glass coating containing bismuth and/or zinc. The insulating coating is provided with an electrically conducting layer (11, 12). The glass plates have a thickness of not more than 3.5, preferably 1.8-2.2 mm, and are made of silicate glass, especially soft glass. The electrically conducting layers are made of tin dioxide.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Seal: The seal (13) is made of silicone rubber or hot-setting adhesive.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Components: The substrate is silicon carbide (SiC) or tantalum (Ta) (preferably SiC). The metal emitter layer is tungsten (W), Ta, niobium (Nb) or molybdenum (Mo) (preferably W), having a thickness of 1-6 microns (preferably 4 microns). The metal silicide emitter is tantalum silicide (TaSi2), niobium silicide (NbSi2), titanium silicide (TiSi2) or vanadium silicide (VSi2) (preferably TaSi2). The antireflective refractory oxide is zirconium oxide (ZrO2), aluminum oxide (Al2O3), tantalum oxide (Ta2O5) or titanium oxide (TiO2), having a thickness of 0.14 microns and an antireflective wavelength of 1.4 microns.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - Preferred Component: The substrate can be Nichrome, Kanthal or stainless steel.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Components: The generator further comprises a chemically isolating layer between the substrate and the emitter layer. The photovoltaic receiver comprises gallium antimonide (GaSb) cells which convert to electricity infrared energy at wavelength below 1.8 microns.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - Preferred Materials: The emitter and the collector contain refractory metal or refractory metal alloy. The emitter can also be a tungsten on a molybdenum substrate and the collector could be molybdenum. The refractory or metal alloy could also be a molybdenum, tungsten, niobium, rhenium, or tantalum. The porous solid is formed by oxidizing 23.5% dense porous nickel pellet with interconnected pores of 50-100 mum in diameter.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Tile: The tile, which corresponds in size to several standard tiles, has not less than 2 spaced and partly over-lapping water channels in different planes and overlaps.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - The circuit provides photovoltaic conversion of incident solar energy into electrical energy.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: The core layer is of solid fiber reinforced undoped refractory oxide material. The black layer is of silicon carbide (SiC) which acts as near black body emitter/radiator. The outer layer is an emitter material which is cobalt doped material or a combination of nickel or cobalt doped refractory oxides with erbia (preferably erbia selective emitter layer).    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred Device: The emitter further comprises a thermophotovoltaic generator having a combustion chamber for receiving the infrared emitter, and a radiator in the combustion chamber for radiating heat, in which the radiator is concentric with and spaced from the emitter. The core forming the diffuse reflector layer stops a shine-through of long wavelength radiation from the inner layer which preserves spectral selectivity in the outer layer. The shine-through is absent in 2-6 mum infrared region. The emitter further comprises openings for radial flow of combustion gases. It is a solid emitter having a window for axial flow of combustion gases. EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the invention, the generator further comprises an upstream flow of combustion gases in the inside tube towards a top of the inner tube and a downstream flow of combustion gases over the top of the inner tube and downwards between the inner and outer tubes towards a bottom of the outer tube. A resultant heat input to the inner tube during the upstream flow and a heat input to the inner and outer tubes during the downstream flow are adjustable. The heat inputs are adjusted so that the solar energy to the outer tube is constant along lengths of the outer tube, and in which the outer infrared emitter is maintained at a constant temperature. The generator further comprises a radial flow of combustion heat between the radiator or mantle and the emitter. The radiator is an emitter radiant tube burner.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Property: The relative density of the tabular casting is 45% or more.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CERAMICS AND GLASS - The burner body is made of ceramic material, preferably comprising a rare earth oxide, especially Yb2O3 or Er2O3 at its combustion chamber side.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - The frames are steel or aluminum.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred Method: The module is heated to 480-540degreesC to thermally decompose the polymeric material. An inert atmosphere is provided by providing a housing (62) with a chamber (64) for containing the inert atmosphere. The method further comprises providing a cooling chamber after the heating step; and providing two holders, the first holder (80) supports the module during the heating step and a second (90) supports the solar cell(s) after the cell falls as a result of the heating step. The heating step lasts for at least 15 minutes or at least 1 h. Preferred Component: The module comprises: (i) a metallic frame that separates from the module before the step of removing the backing layer (40); (ii) solar cells interconnected by metallic ribbon that falls to the floor after the heating step. The solar cell comprises a crystalline silicon wafer (44) with two sides, both having electrical contact grids.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: The module further comprises lead. The metallic ribbon is made of copper and is coated with lead or tin. The first holder is made of aluminum. Preferred Method: The method further includes combusting the gaseous decomposition products in a pyrolytic afterburner (78) to give carbon dioxide and water vapor.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Material: The polymeric material comprises ethylene-vinyl-acetate. Preferred Components: The module comprises two polymeric layers (36, 38).    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CERAMICS AND GLASS - Preferred Substrate: The substrate is glass (34) adhered to the polymeric layer where after heating is free of the polymeric material.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Cell: The solar cells are free or polymeric material, metallic ribbon, and lead solder after the heating step.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The plates preferably consist of polymethylmethacrylate, polyester, polystyrol or a PVC.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Tile: The tile is glass, glass composite, polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polycarbonate (PC) or polyethylene terephthalate (PT).    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Coatings: Coatings comprise metals, oxides or nitrides, titanium dioxide and/or coloring.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred Component: Nanocrystalline injection solar cells are included.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - The material has a porosity of below 0.5 and comprises mutually bonded particles of size below 100nm, preferably as aggregates of size below 1mm, preferably below the wavelength of the visible spectrum and especially below 300nm. The oxygen can be stoichiometric or non-stoichiometric and the semiconductor is dosed and the optical properties, especially the RI, can be set by differential dosing. The material is in the form of a filler in a carrier, especially in an adhesive or a polymer. Production of the gas phase is by vaporizing the metal of the semiconductor in an oxygen atmosphere or when the compound contains oxygen the evaporation is in an inert gas, the evaporation being by heating, combustion, sputtering or electron irradiation. The partial pressure of the elements of the semiconductor in the gas phase and atmosphere is set in accordance with the desired particle size, the total pressure being between 1 bar and 10-2 mbar. The condensed material is mechanically comminuted to form the aggregates, preferably after dispersing it in a liquid or pasty matrix.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The material is in the form of a filler in a carrier, especially in an adhesive or a polymer, typical polymers being epoxy resins or polycarbonates. EXAMPLE - An electrode for use in an electrochromic device was obtained by (1) optionally mixing a compound such as InCl3, SnCl4, In-acetylacetonate or Sn-acetylacetonate with oxygen and decomposing the compound in a continuous gas stream in a flame such that the particles or agglomerates are collected on a filter prior to being mixed with a liquid or paste; and (2) dispersing the dried material in an optically transparent Araldite 2020 (RTM : epoxy resin) system and applying as a 5 mum layer onto a glass disc.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: The first set of layers are formed by tellurium (Te), and at least one of second and third set of layers is formed by lead-telluride (PbTe) or lead-selenide (PbSe). At least one of the second and third set of layers are uniformly doped with bismuth. Each of first set of layers has a thickness of 0.5-1.5, and each of second and third set of layers has a thickness of 10-50nm.Preferred Process: The first, second and third set of layers of superlattice structure are provided adjacent to surface (B) of substrate comprising barium fluoride. The first, second and third set of layers are formed by molecular beam epitaxy. The third set of layers are alternately provided between first and second set of layers. Superlattice structure has a three-dimensional thermoelectric figure of merit (Z3DT) in the order of 0.92 at 400degreesK and number of periods of 50-10000.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: The compound preferably comprises a transition metal or a binary metal compound dopant, preferably SnTe, SbI3, BiI3 or In3Te3.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The leads may consist of an electrically conductive polymer such as polyaniline.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Molded Articles: Particularly, the F/C in the low-temperature heat-sealable surface layer portion is 0.3-0.8, especially 0.4-0.8, while that of O/C is 0.14-.3, especially 0.14-0.25. The low-temperature heat-sealability appears at a temperature lower that the melting point of the non-perfluoro fluororesin molded article. Such non-perfluoro fluororesin is an ethylene-tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE) copolymer or polyvinylidene fluoride, which can be molded into articles particularly films.Preferred Cover Film: One surface of the film is formed with the low-temperature heat-sealable surface layer portion which particularly has a heat-sealing strength of not less than 360 gf/cm.Preferred Cover Laminate: The cover film is directly heat-sealed onto an ethylene-vinyl acetate film or sheet at a temperature below melting point of the non-perfluoro fluororesin. EXAMPLE - A 100 microns ETFE film (F/C = 1.1) was corona discharge-treated with 0.3 vol.% vinyl acetate or glycidyl methacrylate in nitrogen, at charge density of 0.3-8.3 Wsec./cm2 to give F/C being 1-0.1 and O/C being 0.1-0.42 while heat-sealing strength being 24-132 gf/cm, respectively, (optimum at 0.8 Wsec./cm2, with vinyl acetate, F/C at 0.8 and O/C at 0.17 to give heat-sealing strength of 539 g/cm). Further studies on the optimization are presented.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Layer: The photoactive channel layer includes a conjugated polymer, preferably poly(p-phenylene vinylene) material having a thickness of one to two times the average diameter of nanoparticles, and a dyestuff material. The second photoactive channel layer is poly(2-methoxy-5-(2'-ethyl-hexyloxy)-1,4- phenylene vinylene).    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: The photoactive channel layer includes a semiconductor particulate material that has nanoparticles, preferably titanium dioxide with an average diameter. The two electrode materials are transparent conducting oxides.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CERAMICS AND GLASS - Preferred Material: The substrate material is glass. EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the device, the substrate and the two electrodes are formed from a material which transmits at least a portion of incident light to the photoactive channel layer, preferably from mechanically flexible materials. The device also includes an electrical insulating layer formed on the second electrode (108), third and fourth electrode, and a second photoactive channel layer.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - The metal for concentrator is aluminum.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Method: The crystal is grown from the solution containing cadmium or tellurium. The crystal is cadmium-tellurium (CdTe)structure or mixed crystal containing cadmium and tellurium. The raw material is supplied continuously to the solution.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Crystals: The GaSb crystals comprise tellurium doped N-type GaSb. Preferred Surface Region: The surface region comprises zinc doped P-type GaSb. EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the apparatus, the GaSb crystals are joined at grain boundaries (4). The GaSb crystals are of varying orientation. The regions include a surface region. The surface region is on at least one region of GaSb crystals. At least one region is a base region. The surface region faces an infrared source. A metal grid (6) is connected to a bus region (8). The metal grid is in contact with the surface region of the cell. A continuous metal layer is in contact with at least one region of the GaSb crystals. A multilayer coating is on a front side of the cell. The multilayer coating forms an infrared filter for transmitting convertible infrared energy to the cell and for reflecting non-convertible infrared energy back to the infrared source. A generator receives the TPV cell.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - The refractory metal oxide is the oxide of one among scandia, hafnia, zirconia or alumina. The emitters and collectors are composed of a refractory metal selected from group consisting of tungsten, niobium, tantalum, rhenium, molybdenum and their alloys.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - The generator allows water wave movement to be converted into electrical energy.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred System: The second zone has a reflective coating of silver and has a pyramidal configuration. The first zone has a square shape. The solar cells in the immersion medium are coupled together, preferably via gold or gold plated leads or an aluminium bus bar.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred System: The immersion medium is a silicone such as Dow Corning Silicone No.93-500 (RTM).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Legs: The legs comprise a series of alternating p- and n-doped regions with a thickness of 5-200 microns which are electrically connected in groups of legs to match a predetermined circuit.Preferred Structure: The stack structure has (in sequence) a metallic layer attached directly to the diamond or high thermal conductivity substrate; an outer diffusion barrier layer; an electrically conducting layer formed of a material having a high solid state solubility; an inner diffusion barrier layer; and a contact layer.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: The electrically insulating, high thermal conductivity material is made from diamond, silicon carbide, boron nitride, alumina, aluminum nitride, high resistivity silicon or beryllium oxide. SPECIFIC MATERIALS - The thermoelectric material is bismuth-tellurium (Bi2Te3) or a Bi2Te3 -based alloy.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The refracting elements are made of acrylic.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The reflector may be made from polyimide or polyester. The lower springs may be made from a graphite fiber/epoxy resin composite    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - The reflector may be coated in aluminum or silver
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred Method: The electric potential of electrode (108) to which bias power is supplied is controlled to the same level as that of the substrate (107) or positive potential against the substrate. The potential difference between electrode (113) and substrate (107) is controlled to 0 - 500 V. The substrate (107) and inner wall surface of chamber (102) are controlled to earth potential. Bias power is supplied to an electrode (113) independent of the electrode (106) to which high-frequency of RF is supplied. Direct current power is used as bias power.A band-like substrate or conductive substrate is used. The substrate is used as part of the inner wall of the chamber.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Materials: A raw gas comprising a silicon atom-containing molecule is used as the raw gas to form a silicon-type non-monocrystalline semiconductor layer on the substrate. The semiconductor layer is formed in accordance with a plasma chemical vapor deposition method.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred Material: The source material also acts as a reflective coating. It is a single layer of dielectric material carrying a dopant source. The dielectric material acts as a dopant source, a passivation layer and a metallization mask.Preferred Method: A source material acts as a surface passivation layer or is modifiable in situ to act as a surface passivation layer. Before step (b), a metallization pattern mask over the layer of dopant source material is formed. A doped passivation layer is provided with a dielectric layer formed over it to act as a metallization mask and the localized heating step disrupts both the doped passivation layer and the dielectric layer.The first heating step is performed with parameters chosen to result in a surface region doping level of 50-800 ohms per square (especially 80-200 ohms per square).The second localized heating step is performed by scanning a laser beam over the area of the device where metallization is to be applied.Preferred Laser: The laser is a continuous wave laser or a pulsed (Q-switched laser) laser. It is defocused or operated at a wavelength at which laser energy will be absorbed close to the surface of the substrate to prevent excessive ablation during the heating step.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CERAMICS AND GLASS - Preferred Materials: The other contact is also a wide band gap semiconductor as above. An interconnect (40) extends between the outer layers of the contacts and connects them. Part of the solar cell includes hydrogenated amorphous silicon, hydrogenated amorphous silicon carbon or hydrogenated amorphous silicon germanium. The substrate is glass, steel or another metal.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Component: Layer (7) consists of an aluminum oxide or silicon oxide layer with a thickness of 30-200 nm, transparent in the visible and near-UV range but absorbing shorter-wavelength UV light. Preferred layer (7) is a layer of SiOx in which the Si/O ratio (x) = 1.3-1.7.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Composition: Sealing layer (4') lies between cell system (2) and barrier layer 6 and preferably consists of ethylene/vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymer. The oxide layer (7) faces the cell system (2). Layer (7) may be in direct contact with the adjacent sealing layer (4') or there may be a primer layer (12) between them, or layer (7) may be enclosed between two layers of plastic film or compound foil (6, 11), at least one of which acts as the barrier layer (6); in this case there may be a layer of adhesive (10) between layers (7) and (11). Suitable materials for the plastic film base for the barrier layer (6) are, e.g. polyethylene terephthalate (PETP), polyvinyl fluoride/PETP compound foil and ethylene/tetrafluoroethylene copolymer. EXAMPLE - A barrier layer (6) was formed by coating ethylene/tetrafluoro-ethylene copolymer (ETFE) film (20 microns thick) with a layer of silicon oxide (SiOx) by vapor-phase deposition, using electron beam irradiation at 10 kV and 220 mA. ETFE film with an oxide coating 320 nm thick showed practically no transparency to UV light with a wavelength of less than 350 nm, combined with significant transmission from 450 nm upwards, rising to 80-95% in the range 550-800 nm. In film of this type, the water vapor permeability was reduced by a factor of about 100 compared with uncoated ETFE film.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Cell: The titanium dioxide particles comprise particles having an open pore structure where the average pore volume is at least 0.005 cc/g for any 0.5x10-9 meter pore diameter size increment within pore size range of 2-10x10-9 meter.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CERAMICS AND GLASS - Preferred Materials: The bottom layer comprises fluorine-doped tin oxide glass and the top layer comprises platinum coated indium-tin oxide glass.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The foaming is effected in a heated mold using polyurethane foam. A protective polymer gelcoat layer is applied before the foaming. TEXTILES - The lightning conductor is a conductive fabric strip of carbon fibers.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - An alternative conductor comprises a copper wire fabric strip. EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the rotor blade a lightning conductor(19) is integrated in the rotor blade(3) from the free end(20) to the metal holder(16). The holder is a cage, preferably a metal grid cage, in which the plastic insert(17) is a precise fit. The connector(6) is a tube with circular cross-section and a radial enlargement at the hub end.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The bottom plate (7) of the apparatus, is of TEFLON (RTM; polytetrafluoroethylene) coated aluminium, and a base plate of the thermoelectric device is of deformable, electrically insulating heat resistant, mica, capton, TEFLON, or heat resistant PVC. EXAMPLE - In the EMBODIMENTS the thermoelectric devices outer parts (4) are mounted on aluminium or copper plates on the outer side faces of the container, and the inner parts are attached to a bottom plate (7) of the apparatus, which is of TEFLON coated aluminium. The Peltier devices are fastened between the bottom plate (7) and a radiating plate (8) of molded aluminium. A base plate of the thermoelectric device is of deformable, electrically insulating, heat resistant, mica, capton, TEFLON, or heat resistant PVC, with anode and cathodes of the devices formed on respective faces of the base plate.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - The device is solar powered and used with a solar energy converter, e.g. a photovoltaic solar collector.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - The effect uses direct conversion of heat energy into mechanical energy.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The encapsulant is ethylene vinyl acetate and a backsheet may be polyvinyl fluoride    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - The contacts may be copper, the conductive adhesive either lead tin solder or epoxy filled with silver, gold, or carbon particles    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - The conductive adhesive may contain particles of carbon Glass is used to cover the solar cell array.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Composition: A thermally insulating PTFE, polycarbonate, polyurethane, silicone or carbon fiber containing polymer element is preferably located between the two poles.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Process: Trivalent vanadium compound and inorganic acid are reacted at 150-250degreesC. Trivalent vanadium sulfate is solubilized at 80-100degreesC in the presence of sulfuric acid. Vanadium pentaoxide is obtained by combustion of fossil fuel at 420-520degreesC, baking and washing the ashes obtained during combustion during which V2O5 sets as solid compound. SPECIFIC COMPOUNDS - The trivalent vanadium compound obtained by washing the baked ashes in water is ammonium vanadium sulfate.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Conditions: Calcination of baked product, is carried out in the first step of manufacture process, at 300-400degreesC and the obtained trivalent vanadium compound is ammonium vanadium sulfate. The second step of the process is performed at 150-250degreesC. The hydration of vanadium sulfate is carried out at 80-100degreesC in presence of sulfuric acid.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Examples of the other binder: include a polytetrafuloroethylene, polyvinylidene fluoride, fluorocarbon rubber, polypropylene, polyethylene.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Process: Current is produced by conversion of mechanical energy from step (i) using a generator and/or by supplying hydrogen from step (ii) to a fuel cell. The environment containing organic material is a thermochemical reactor containing biomass, coal or similar; and is heated using the waste gas from step (i). Heat produced in the process stages is supplied to a heat accumulator. Methanol produced in stage (iii) (b) is supplied to a methanol tank or a fuel cell. Preferred Apparatus: Apparatus (A) or (B) includes a current producing generator driven by the IC engine and a heat accumulator for storing the heat produced in the apparatus. Apparatus (B) additionally includes a methanol storage tank and a fuel cell for producing current from the methanol.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferably, the electrolyte membrane and the proton conductive material consist of a tetrafluoroethylene/perfluorinated monomer copolymer containing sulfonic acid groups.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Pressure: The gas stream is introduced into gas-liquid contactor at a pressure slightly above atmospheric pressure, preferably at about 100 psig, more preferably below 4000 psig. Water is introduced into the contactor at a pressure between 50-6000 psig.Preferred Flow Rate: Gas is introduced into the contactor at a flow rate of 1000-10000 ft3/hour. The gas liquid contactor is constructed such that gas can be introduced into the contactor at a velocity above 40 ft/second, preferably 200 ft/sec.Preferred Moisture Content: The humidified gas stream has moisture content of less than 2000 ppm, preferably less than 1000 ppm and more preferably less than 215 ppm.Preferred Temperature: The gas stream is pre-heated at 60-100degreesF before introducing into the gas liquid contactor. EXAMPLE - 0.166 cc/minute of distilled water and a gaseous stream containing 2000 SCFH of nitrogen were introduced into a gas-liquid contactor. Linear velocity of a gas introduced into gas inlet pipe was approximately 103 ft/sec which was above the minimum value required to effectively shear the liquid stream. The contactor was operated at pressure of 58 psig. Flow rate of water supplied into gas-liquid contactor was calculated to provide moisture content close to 215 ppm or about -31degreesF. dew point. A sample of the humidified nitrogen stream was withdrawn and analyzed for moisture content which was measured to be close to -35degreesF. dew point. Further, the moisture content was found to vary within a narrow range of -30 to -32.5degreesF. It was found that the gas stream was effectively humidified as the liquid stream was effectively sheared and vaporized by the gas stream.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Condition: The activation process is performed at 20-80degreesC, preferably at 70degreesC or at 300degreesC using an alkali proof pressure container. Preferred Solution: The aqueous alkaline solution is aqueous solution of sodium or potassium hydroxide. Preferred Concentration: The concentration of aqueous alkaline solution is more than 5 M, preferably more than 6 M and the quantity of alkali present the aqueous alkaline solution is 0.005 mols, preferably 7 mols or more per g of carbon.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Carbon: The carbon used in activation process is carbon powder or carbon sheet.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Process: The water recovered from unreacted air and unreacted hydrogen is supplied to a water tank (3) for circulation.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Process: Water is recovered from unreacted air and unreacted hydrogen and supplied to water tank for circulation.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Apparatus: The apparatus has some cylinders filled with heating gas, the gas is passed to desulfurizer through each heating gas supply path and then to modifier through desulfurization gas supply path. The sulfur concentration in the heating gas along each heating gas supply path or desulfurization supply path is detected. The heating gas is circulated from the heating gas supply path distributed by some cylinders. When the concentration of sulfur group component is beyond a fixed value, supply of the heating gas from the first cylinder to modifier side is stopped by controller and then the heating gas is supplied to second cylinder through heating gas supply path. The sulfur group component detection sensor is a heat ray type semiconductor sensor provided into a gas piping along a supply path. The apparatus has a temperature rise burner (30) below the modifier. The control part controls the heating gas of the cylinder which stopped the supply to the modifier and to circulate through the burner. The cylinder is a cassette cylinder filled with commercial butane as a principal component. The hydrogen manufacturing apparatus is provided in a fuel battery system (40). The hydrogen rich reformed gas produced from the hydrogen manufacturing apparatus, reacts with the fuel battery main body using oxygen in air to generate electricity.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The electrically conductive polymeric materials may be polyaniline, polycations, polyanions or polyzwitterions.
Preferred Definitions:    M1, M2 = aluminum, boron, vanadium, titanium, silicon, zirconium, copper, germanium, tin, yttrium, zinc, gallium, niobium, tantalum, bismuth, phosphorus, arsenic, scandium, hafnium or antimony;    X = F;    R1 = methylene;    R2 = F, CF3 or phenyl;    R3 = F, phenyl, methyl or CF3;    R4 = F, phenyl, methyl, CF3 or pentafluorophenyl;    R5 = pentafluorophenyl, 2-trifluoromethylphenoxide, 3-trifluoromethylphenoxide or pentafluorophenoxide;    R12, R13 = fluorinated 1-4C alkyl, preferably CF3;    d + e = 2 or 4;    the group -Z1-R8-R9-R10-Z2- = e.g. a group of formula (i)-(v).    SPECIFIC COMPOUNDS - Five compounds are disclosed e.g. (IIa)    LiB(HFTPOP)2.    EXAMPLE - A 0.0100 M solution of Li(B(OC(CF3)2C6HF3O)2) in 1,2-dimethoxyethane had the following properties (values for a concentration of lithium trifluoromethylsulfonate are given in parentheses):    Conductivity = 0.218 (0.0039) mS/cm; Eq. Conductivity = 21.8 (0.390) S cm2/mol.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Apparatus: An outlet for liquid component and/or solid component is provided to the fermentation reactor. The conveyor conveys liquid component and a solid component along with carbon dioxide to the plant growth area. The collected plant is adhered with microorganism. The decomposition of carbohydrate contained in the plant in the plant grown area is carried out and supplied to the reactor.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Properties: The specific surface area of the solid shape activity coal property electrode is 1000-1800 m2/g.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - The lithium ion secondary battery has LiPF6 as an electrolyte. The trialkyl silyl compound has a group of formula (1).-N(H)-Si(R)(R)(R) (1)R = lower alkyl.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Properties: Two kinds of UHPE powder have mean particle diameters of 10-50 mum and 60-200 mum, respectively. The molecular weight of UHPE powder is 500000-16000000. EXAMPLE - 1 kg of each UHPE powder (A) (having molecular weight of 4500000, melting point of 135degreesC and mean particle diameter of 106mum) and UHPE powder (B) (having molecular weight of 2000000, melting point of 135degreesC and mean particle diameter of 30 mum) were blended. The mixture was filled inside a fixed type molding machine attached with polytetrafluoroethylene porous film and sintered under pressure of 1.3 kPa in an atmosphere of water vapor for 1 hour. The porous cylindrical compact was then cooled and cut to a thickness of 200 mum to obtain UHPE porous sheet having porosity of 65%. The porous sheet separator was subjected to hydrophilization by impressing 0.5 W/cm2 for 30 seconds. The pore size distribution (V1divideV2), porosity, air permeability and alkaline solution permeation velocity of the separator obtained were found to be 0.26, 55%, 148x10-3 cm3.cm/cm2.Pa.second and 15 mm/30 minutes, respectively.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - Preferred Material: The connector is plate-like stainless steel.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Apparatus: The support comprises a hollow body, a rib (41) arranged within the hollow body, flanges joined to both ends of the hollow body, and a pushing force controller arranged within the hollow body. The connector consists of a music wire where both ends are fixed to the flange of the support. The music wire is alternately wound about hooks formed integral with the upper and lower flanges of the support, and both end portions of the music wire are finally joined to each other.The fastening tool is a bolt (48) joined by a screw to the flange of the support. The pushing force adjuster consists of a dish plate, a leaf spring, or a spiral spring.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: (B) is liquid paraffin.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INDUSTRIAL STANDARDS - The value of air permeability conforms to JIS L1096.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - The fuel cell device is used for providing electrical energy from a chemical reaction.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Coating Layer: The coating layer (a) can be a heat-expansional graphite seat.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Coating Layer: The coating layer (a) can be a porous resin film permeated by carbon powder.Preferred adhesive layer: The adhesive layer comprises epoxy resin or phenol resin.Preferred Tight Coating Membrane Material: The tight coating membrane material is a chelate resin, preferably Schiff basic chelate resin or oxine chelate resin.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Salt: The salt comprises a cation and anion, the anion selected from (meth)acrylate, vinyl sulfonate, 4-styrenesulfonate, methyl-4-oxybenzoate and/or acetylide.The cation is selected from N-methyl-4-viylpyridinium, alpha,alpha'-bis-(tetrahydrothiophenio)-xylene and/or allyl trimethylammonium.The salt preferably comprises sodium acrylate.Preferred Method: The method comprises adding a polymerization initiator (0.001 - 5.0 wt.%) to the lignin and salt mixture.The initiator comprises dialkyl peroxide and/or azobis-isobutyronitrile.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Aprotic Liquid: The aprotic liquid is a linear or cyclic carbonate, ester, diester, lactone, amide, sulfoxide, sulfone or ether. The aprotic liquid of a mobile lithium salt such as LiPF6, LiPFxRfy, LiBF4, LiAsF6, LiClO4, LiSO3Rf, LiN(SO2Rf)2 and/or LiC(SO2Rf)3 is preferably combined with an ionomer (15 wt.%).Preferred Process: Mixing is preferably carried out by a continuous plasticating extruder at a temperature above the melting point of the composition. The shaped article may be formed by calendering, thermoforming, injection molding or compression molding the plastically formable composition.Preferred Composition: The composition preferably comprises (wt.%) ionomer (5-20), aprotic liquid (10-60), electrode active material (45-80) such as carbon, metal oxide, lithium-alloy-forming compound, transition metal oxide, sulfur compound or electronically conductive polymer and conductive particle (1-12) such as carbon, metal, conductive metal oxide or electronically conductive polymer.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Polymer: The polymer further comprises monomer units (20 mol%) such as tetrafluoroethylene, trifluoroethylene, chlorotrifluoroethylene, vinyl fluoride, hexafluoropropylene, perfluoromethyl vinyl ether, perfluoroethyl vinyl ether, ethylene, propylene, 1-octene, isobutylene, ethyl vinyl ether, (meth)acrylic acid and/or (meth)acrylic alkyl esters. EXAMPLE - Lithium ionomer (0.5g) was mixed with 1:1 volume mixture of ethylene carbonate and propylene carbonate (1.5g). The mixture was heated to 100 degreesC and then cooled to form a gel. The mixture was then placed between two thick sheets of Kapton (RTM: polyimide film). The resulting mixture was pressed with a ram force of 1,000 lbs. The resulting film was clear and had a uniform thickness.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Process: The positive electrode Fe2(MO4)3 is baked and made into powder at more than 450degreesC. Alternatively, the powder is baked and pulverized at 350-400degreesC. Still alternatively, a part of the complex oxide may be baked and pulverized at more than 450degreesC, and another part is baked and powdered at 350-400degreesC, and the two parts may be mixed to form the electrode material.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Properties: The silicone resin layer has a hardness of 40-70 according to spring formula hardness test JISK 6301 and thickness of 0.05-1 mm.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The ethylene-alpha-olefin copolymer is obtained using a metallocene catalyst. The battery case is injection-molded from the resin composition, and has transparency of 86-94%, as haze value measured by JIS-K7105.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The adhesive to retain the batteries may be urethane- or silicon-based with high elasticity even when cured
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Apparatus: The temperature of the reforming catalyst is monitored and is controlled by altering the amount of oxidant gas mixed with the fuel and water. The water feed for fuel reforming feeds air and optionally also steam. The shifting catalyst comprises a platinum group-type catalyst. The temperature of the shifting catalyst is monitored and is controlled by altering the amount of oxidant gas mixed with the reformed gas. The temperature of the purification catalyst is similarly controlled by altering the amount of oxidant gas mixed with the shifted gas. Each of the three catalyst bodies comprises a carrier having a honeycomb, foamed body or corrugated structure carrying the catalyst. Scatter preventing means are located between the different catalysts. They comprise a filter and pressure detectors located upstream and downstream of the filter. A temperature detector may also be located at the filter. EXAMPLE - A mixture of methane (1 mole) and water (2 or more moles) was fed to reforming zone (2) containing platinum-group metal catalyst (2a). The zone was operated at 700 degreesC. The reformed gas was fed, with air (13a), to shifting zone (6) also containing a platinum-group metal catalyst (6a). This zone operated at 200-350 degreesC and reduced the CO level by shift reaction with water. The shifted gas was mixed with more air (13b) and fed to purification zone (10), containing a platinum-group metal oxidizing catalyst (10a), where CO was oxidized and removed. This zone operated at 100-200 degreesC.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred system: The turbine system is arranged to be rotable about the longitudinal axis of the column. The column is of a tubular construction and where an axially displaceable element for supporting a turbine is displaceable internally of the sleeve. The arrangement is so that displacement of the element lengthways of the sleeve correspondingly displaces the turbine length ways of the column.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Modifier: Alternately, a distributed hole catalyst sheet having corrugated fins on both sides is arranged between combustion catalyst sheets. Each combustion catalyst sheet has porous thin film containing platinum. A flat plate for supplying combustion air and combustion off gas flat plate are configured below and above the distributed hole catalyst sheet. A heat recovery flat plate is configured to exhaust the heat generated due to catalytic combustion. Alternately, a corrugated fin is arranged between carbon monoxide oxidation catalyst sheets containing platinum and ruthenium. The CO oxidation part is divided into two partitions by a heat insulation flat plate which has projection. Many modifying parts are laminated such that modifying catalyst sheet and corrugated fin are alternately arranged. Preferred Constructor: The constructor for performing modification, combustion, CO oxidation and vaporization are laminated. A soft polytetrafluoro ethylene sheet or expanded graphite sheet is placed between each constructor. A gas seal sheet is formed so that the reaction is not impaired.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Adhesive: The adhesive to retain the batteries may be urethane- or silicon-based with high elasticity even when cured
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Features: The hydrogen generating unit comprises a conversion reactor unit (6) followed by a water gas shift reactor unit (7) and the water supply system comprises respective water feed lines (10a, b, c) for these units and/or the fuel cell cathodes (4). The hydrogen generating unit also has a hydrogen separation membrane (7b) for selective separation of the hydrogen product gas from residual gas, the water recovery system having a condenser (13) for condensing water from this residual gas and the conversion reactor water feed line (10a) being heated by passage through this condenser (13). The water recovery system also has a second condenser (15) for condensing water from the cathode off-gas, a common cooling circuit being provided for both condensers (13, 15). A first heat exchanger (20) is provided for heat exchange between the separated hydrogen product gas and the residual gas downstream of the first condenser (13) and/or a second heat exchanger (23) is provided for heat exchange between the separated hydrogen product gas and the cathode off-gas downstream of the second condenser (15). A residual gas expansion unit (21) is mechanically coupled to a product gas pump unit (22). A mixer unit (24) is provided for dosing anode off-gas into the product gas and/or an anode off-gas line is used to supply anode off-gas into the hydrogen generating unit. A catalytic combustion unit (27) is supplied with the residual gas and the cathode off-gas and is followed by a combustion exhaust gas expansion unit (28) which is mechanically coupled to a pump unit (29, 30) used for air supply to the fuel cell cathodes (4) and/or to the hydrogen generating unit.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CERAMICS AND GLASS - Preferred Material: The porous wash coat layer is alumina, silica, silica-alumina, ceria, silicon carbide, or other high surface area ceramic material. The monolithic member is made from ceramic (preferably silicon carbide).    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - Preferred Material: The monolithic member can be made of aluminum-steel alloy, nickel alloy, or stainless steel.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: The monolithic member can also be made of aluminum, carbon, or graphite. The catalyst is copper, zinc, nickel, platinum, rhodium, palladium, or a noble metal). EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the invention, the bed is bonded to an adjacent heat transfer member, which can be a plate or a coolant conduit, to establish a high heat transfer between the bed and the heat transfer member.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Materials: The catalyst has a support comprising titanium oxide which has basic spots on the surface and has composition where platinum is supported on the support. A rare earth metal selected from lanthanum and/or cerium may be added to the platinum. The platinum and rare earth metal are present in amount of 0.1-3 weight% and 0.3-3 weight% respectively, on the titanium oxide support. Alternatively, palladium is used instead of platinum and its use amount is 0.5-5 weight%. A cooling coil for cooling the catalyst is disposed in the reaction vessel. The reaction vessel has many compartments opposing to gas inlet to gas outlet with many gas permeable plates. The catalyst and cooling coil are arranged in the compartment spaces.Preferred System: A desulfurizer is arranged on the upstream side of the reformer. A carbon monoxide selective oxidizing unit for selectively oxidizing carbon monoxide in the reformed gas is arranged between the reformer and fuel cell.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - There is also a preheater (115) in fluid communication with the fuel supply and the SOFC fuel side intake, comprising at least one of a burner, heat exchanger, plasmatron, vaporizer or fuel reformer.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - The energy converter is an engine (125) and/or a turbine (130).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred plasma: The plasma is preferably obtained by high-frequency inert gas spattering of a mono-, di-, oligo- or polymer target (4), especially of a tetrafluoroethylene mono-, di-, oligo- or polymer or of hexamethyldisiloxane (HMDSO) or a silicone target to give a deposited layer (3) 100nm -1mum thick. The plasma preferably contains azide or sulfonic acid (-SO2-OH) groups generated by the presence of halosulfonic acids, solid azide group-producing compounds or (preferably alkali) metal sulfates or disulfates. When the metal (di)sulfates are used layer (3) can be treated with dilute acid to convert the -SO2-Me groups to sulfonic acid groups.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred plasma: The plasma is preferably obtained by high-frequency inert gas spattering of a mono-, di-, oligo- or polymer target (4), especially of a tetrafluoroethylene mono-, di-, oligo- or polymer or of hexamethyldisiloxane (HMDSO) or a silicone target to give a deposited layer (3) 100 nm-1 mum thick.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - The plasma preferably contains azide or sulfonic acid (-SO2-OH) groups generated by the presence of halosulfonic acids, solid azide group-producing compounds or (preferably alkali) metal sulfates or disulfates. When the metal (di)sulfates are used layer (3) can be treated with dilute acid to convert the -SO2-Me groups to sulfonic acid groups. EXAMPLE - A 100 mum thick sulfonated PTFE membrane had its MeOH diffusion coefficient reduced 8.5-fold from 1.20.10-6 to 1.42.10-7 cm2s-1 by giving it a 370 nm coating by ionized argon-induced plasma polymerization using a PTFE disc-shaped target backed by K disulfate as per the system shown in the drawing below but with KSO3 in the plasma.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Device: The probe is placed in the cathode exhaust line and measures the oxygen partial pressure. The partial pressure of a reaction gas in the process gas line of the stack is used as reference parameter for adjusting the process gas stream.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - TEXTILES AND PAPER - Preferred Composition: The nickel-coated graphite fibers comprise 10-40 wt.% of the total composition. The nickel-coating represents 45-60% or total weight percent of nickel-coated graphite fibers. At least 50%, preferably 75% of the bonds to ester or amide groups are to carbon atoms which are part of aromatic rings. The binder resin comprises 5-15 wt.% of graphite. 5-80 wt.% of graphite filler comprising graphite fiber is present in the total mixture.Preferred Fiber: The graphite fiber further comprises metal coating, preferably nickel coating. The nickel-coated graphite fiber further comprises non-liquid-crystalline thermoplastic binder resin.Preferred Properties: The nickel-coated graphite fibers has diameter of 5-15 microm. The TLCPR particles has mean particle size of less than 1500 microm, preferably less than 1000 microm. The graphite filler having fiber of length less than 2 cm.Preferred Polymer: The aromatic thermoplastic liquid crystalline polymer is polyester or poly(ester-amide).Preferred Article: The shaped article comprises a form of bipolar plate having thickness of 0.1-10 mm, preferably 1-3 mm and fluid distribution channels inscribed upon their surface.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - Metals such as zinc, aluminum, manganese or beryllium are used as metal fuel.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CERAMICS AND GLASS - Preferred Material: The coating is an oxide of Si, Mg, Ti or Al, that is 1-100 nm thick, and contains 0.1-10 wt.% metal component.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INSTRUMENTATION AND TESTING - Preferred Process: The measuring medium flows through the anode chamber (1) of the cell, and an oxidant or inert gas as fluid is fed to the cathode chamber (5) to produce a voltage or current through the cell.
SPECIFIC COMPOUNDS - The hydrocarbon is methanol.    EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT, a heat exchanger (1) is supplied, at its medium side (1a), with a liquid methanol/water mixture by a dosing device (2) and. at its heat carrier side (1b), with the combustion waste gas from a catalytic burner (3). The burner (3) is supplied with fuel cell anode and cathode off-gases and optionally methanol from a mixer unit (4).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred battery system: The preferred battery system is a wet chloride cell with an iron anode, and initially ammonium chloride as a wet paste in the anode compartment, and ammoniacal copper chloride and copper chloride excess as a wet paste in cathode compartment.Each half cell is sealed with a rubber washer. The cap and cell enclosure is made of castable or machinable plastic.Leads from anode are soldered to base metal plate and leads from cathode are soldered to top metal plate, so that the metal plates of the two half cells, one on top of the other, form an electrical series to give double half cell voltage with two half cell assemblies in two stainless steel halves that form the protective casing.The casing is isolated from the electrically active base and top plate of the two half cells by plastic bushes.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Active Material: Average particle diameter is 3-20 microns.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Properties: The pressure pad of electrochemical cell has gradient of porosity and is compatible with electrochemical cell. The pressure pad maintains uniform pressure on high pressure flow field and functions under pressure exceeding 2000 psi, preferable 5000 psi. Preferred Structure: The pad comprises porous layer(s) of conductive material interwoven with elastomers.Preferred Process: A high pressure electrochemical cell is operated by introducing HPF having pressure greater than 100 psi into a high pressure flow field which is in contact with pressure pad. The HPF is subsequently reacted on HPE to form ions. The HPE is adjacent to and in fluid communication with the high pressure flow field. The ions formed are migrated to LPE through membrane and a LPF is formed at LPE. The LPF formed is then passed through a low pressure flow field. The high pressure electrochemical cell is operated at pressure greater than 500 psi, preferably 5000 psi. Alternatively, a HPF(I) is introduced to high pressure flow field and a portion of the fluid is migrated to LPE through a membrane. The HPF is reacted on LPE and ions are formed. The ions formed are migrated to HPE through the membrane and HPF(II) is formed on HPE which is passed through high pressure flow field.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Compounds: The electrically conductive material is steel, nickel, cobalt, carbon, refractory metal, precious metal and/or carbon. The elastomers is fluorosilicon and/or fluoroelastomer.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Materials: An adhesion layer made of epoxy resin or phenol resin is used to bind the stationary coating membrane to the metal plate.
SPECIFIC COMPOUNDS - The glass-ceramic preferably comprises 70-95 wt.% of a glass component, having the composition (by wt.) 30-60% SiO2, 15-30% BaO, 10-20% B2O3 and 8-15% Al2O3, and 0.5-10 wt.% of a metallic nucleating agent selected from Mg, Cr, Ti, Zr and Al.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Tracer: The tracer is methane, helium, argon or sulfur hexafluoride.Preferred Fluid: The fluid containing the tracer is a fuel.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: The alloy comprises (atomic %) titanium (Ti) 0.1-60, zirconium (Zr) 0.1-40, vanadium (V) 0-60, nickel (Ni) 0.1-57, chromium (Cr) 0-56, manganese (Mn) 0-20 and palladium (Pd) 0.1-4, (preferably Ti, Zr, V, Ni, Cr and Mn total is at least 80). The transition metal is palladium, which increases the discharge capacity of the alloy by at least 20% and having atomically unfilled d-orbitals. Preferred Substrate: The substrate is a porous metal substrate formed from nickel, copper, nickel-plated copper, copper-plated nickel or a copper-nickel alloy.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Solvent: The solvent comprises:(i) 5-60 vol.% propylene carbonate, butylene carbonate or especially ethylene carbonate;(ii) at most 60 (0.5-10) vol.% propylidene carbonate, ethylidene ethylene carbonate, isopropylidene ethylene carbonate or especially vinylene carbonate;(iii) 20-85 (50-85) vol.% acetate, butyrate and/or propionate ester, especially ethyl acetate or methyl butyrate; and optionally(iv) at most 40 vol.% saturated straight chain carbonate, preferably diethyl carbonate, methyl ethyl carbonate, methyl propyl carbonate or especially dimethyl carbonate.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Binder: The binder comprises:(I) an elastomer, preferably an acrylonitrile butadiene copolymer or especially a styrene butadiene copolymer; and(II) another polymer.The binder comprises:(i) 30-70 (50-70) wt.% elastomer, and(ii) 30-70 (30-50) wt.% a cellulose derivative, especially carboxy methyl cellulose with a molecular weight more than 200000; or(iii) 40-80 wt.% elastomer, and(iv) 20-60 wt.% acrylic polymer, especially acrylic acid homopolymer. EXAMPLE - A battery based on a solvent comprising ethylene carbonate, dimethyl carbonate, ethyl acetate and vinylene carbonate (14:24:57:5), and a binder comprising styrene butadiene rubber and carboxymethyl cellulose retained 68% of its capacity at -30 degrees C.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - The solar cell element incorporated in the roof region of the windscreen converts incident solar radiation into electrical energy.
EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the invention, the grid is a directly cast or a cold-rolled grid having a root mean square deviation of surface height and depth (Rq) value of at least 50 (preferably 75) greater than that of the unmodified grid. Surface modification of the grid is carried out by media blasting, which utilizes glass beads or black diamond grit, steam curing techniques and chemical etching, and by using knurled rolls or a water jet.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Process: The biomass thermolysis of gas treatment is mixed with hydrogen utilization methanation microbe to form methane. Methane and obtained gas from thermolizing are supplied to a fuel battery used as electricity generator.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INSTRUMENTATION AND TESTING - The heater comprises a burner (6) which oxidizes fuel for burning with air, and a vaporizer (7) for vaporizing the raw fuel.The controller further comprises an air quantity controller, a detector for detecting a physical value indicating the quantity of raw fuel heated by the heater, a correcting device for correcting the target temperature, and a heat value correcting device.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: Both the electrode and the zone comprise platinum. The electrode further comprises carbon.Preferred Properties: The zone has a thickness of 3-475, preferably 5-50 Angstrom. The second catalytically active metal is in a form, which includes spherical nodules, having a width of 30-70 nm. The first catalytically active metal has a particle size of 20-50 Angstrom. The electrode has loadings of first catalytically active metal of less than 0.3 mg/cm2 and of second catalytically active metal of 0.0007-0.09 or 0.001-0.02 mg/cm2 before deposition.Preferred Ratio: The assembly provides an R ratio greater than 1, where R is the percent increase, preferably greater than 20 when the zone is present in current density at 0.6 V divided by the zone thickness in angstroms.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Component: The ionically conductive membrane comprises at least one fluorinated polymer support and at least one ionically conductive fluorinated polymer, or a porous polymer impregnated with a fluoroionomer which is an expanded polytetrafluoroethylene support. The fluoroionomer is a sulfonated perfluoroionomer.Preferred Properties: The membrane has a thickness of 3-75, preferably less than 30 microns, a Gurley number greater than 10000s and an ionic conductance of at least 8.5 or 22 mhos/cm2. The support has a maximum pore size of 0.05-0.5 kg/cm2 and a pore volume of 60-90%. EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the invention, the vacuum deposited zone is deposited by chemical, physical, jet vapor depositions, thermal, cathodic arc, ion sputtering or ion beam assisted depositions, preferably an electron beam physical vapor deposition. The vacuum deposited zone is deposited with movement of a deposition substrate to provide zone uniformity to the vacuum deposited zone.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Components: The foam is polyurethane (PUR). The sections may be plastic, painted or surface-treated sheet steel.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred Sections: The sections include solar cells (16).    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CERAMICS AND GLASS - Preferred Sections: The sections are clear glass.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Oxidant: The oxidant is dichromate ions (Cr2O72-) or permanganate ions (MnO42-).Preferred Apparatus: The oxidant is placed in a container, preferably made from transparent material. It is used with a pH meter.Preferred Method: The fuel or a side stream is passed through the apparatus and the change in the marking property of the oxidant is determined and displayed. The oxidant is replaced on reaching a limiting value for the change in the marking property. SPECIFIC COMPOUNDS - Specific examples of the oxidant are dichromate ions (Cr2O72-) or permanganate ions (MnO42-).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The polymer layer is formed of carbon and fluorine. The fluorocarbon based conductive polymer is electrically conductive with a conductivity in the range of 10-4-10-8 (ohm.cm)-1.Preferred substrate: The substrate is glass, organic polymers, semiconductors, dielectric materials, metals, and metal alloys.Preferred fluorocarbon single gas: it is C3F8, C4F10, CHF3, C2F4, or C4F8. Preferably, the fluorocarbon gases are selected from dual gas sources which include a fluorocarbon gas having a high F/C ratio and one hydrogen or hydrocarbon gas.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Solvent: The solvent is liquid paraffin. EXAMPLE - A slurry like mixture of 15 wt.% ultra high molecular weight polyethylene with weight average molecular weight of 2 x 10 6 and 85 wt.% liquid paraffin with freezing point of -15 degreesC was kneading at 160 degreesC for 50 min. The blend was held between steel plates cooled at -98 degreesC to form a sheet. The sheet was pressed and drawn at 125 degreesC and drawn simultaneously in biaxial direction and dipped in hexane to remove the paraffin to obtain porous film.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Compound: The storage compound is 1-8C (alcohol, acid, aldehyde, ether, or hydrocarbon), a Fischer-Tropsch liquid, or Mobile gasoline. Preferably, the storage compound is methanol.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred System: The system further includes a regenerator comprising a fuel cell or a generator for the generation of electrical energy directly from the storage compound. The regenerator further includes a reactor to convert the storage compound back into hydrogen. The system may comprise an internal combustion engine attached to the storage compound store.Preferred Method: The storage compound or storage compound/water mixture in step (a4) is converted back to hydrogen and is used to generate electricity. EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the system, sunlight falling on solar panels is used to generate electricity to electrolyzed water forming hydrogen and oxygen. The hydrogen is reacted with carbon dioxide to form methanol or methanol/water mixture. The methanol or methanol/water mixture is stored in a tank, and then used as required, either directly in methanol fuel cell to produce electricity or dissociating into hydrogen and carbon dioxide, with hydrogen used in fuel cells.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - The hydrogen absorbing alloy powder contains at least 10 weight % of at least one selected from rare earth elements, Ti, Zr, V, Mg, Ca, Y, Hf, Nb, Ta, Ni, Fe, Mn, Cu, Co, Cr, Al, B, C, Si, P, S, N, Pd, Pt.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Member: The member is B, C, Si, P, S, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Mo, Zn, Ga, In, Sn, Be, Mg, Ca, Ti, V, Y, Zr, La, BeH2, MgH2, CaH2, TiH2, VH2, YH2 or LaH2.Preferred Complex: The AlH3 based complex is of formula (I):M = metal;X = 1 - 3;y = 1 or 2; andz = x or 2x.Preferred Composition: The composition has a molar ratio of hydride:member of 10:1 - 1:3. The member is alloyed with the hydride complex by ball milling.Preferred Method: The composition liberates hydrogen at a temperature of 80 - 180 degreesC. Step (c) is carried out at 80 - 150 degreesC and a hydrogen pressure of 20 - 100 atmospheres. Preferred Definitions:    M = Li, Na, Be, Mg, and Ca; and    X = 1 or 3.    SPECIFIC COMPOUNDS - AlH3-based complex hydride is LiAlH4, NaAlH4, Mg(AlH4)2, Be(AlH4)2, Zr(AlH4)2, Ca(AlH4)2, Li3AlH6 or Na3AlH6.    EXAMPLE - Sodium aluminum hydride (NaAlH4) was ball milled with an addition of carbon (C) in a high-energy ball mill SPEX 8000. The molar ratio of the hydride to C was 3:1. After ball milling the mixture was placed in a automated gas titration system and subjected to hydrogenation/dehydrogenation cycles. The material was able to desorb about 3 wt.% at 90 - 150 degreesC with an additional 1.5 wt. % released at about 160 degreesC. Rehydrogenation was performed at 80 atmospheres and 130 degreesC within 2 - 3 hours.
A negative electrode active material is a lithium titanium composite oxide represented by a general formula of Li (Li1/3 Ti5/3)
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: The substrate is a metallic substrate. The electrocatalytically-active material is derived from platinum, cerium, ruthenium, non-noble group metals and/or its oxides. The material may also comprise mixtures of ruthenium oxide with at least one of titanium dioxide (TiO2), tin dioxide (SnO2), iridium dioxide (IrO2), antimony (III) oxide (Sb2O3), tantalum (V) oxide, palladium oxide, cerium dioxide (CeO2), cobalt (II, III) oxide (Ce3O4).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Battery: The battery, e.g. fuel cell (10), has compartments, barrier having a proton transporting moiety and which separates the compartments, electrodes, redox enzyme in the first compartment (1) to receive electrons from the first electrode (4), electron carrier in the first compartment in chemical communication with the redox enzyme, and an electron receiving composition in the second compartment (2) in chemical communication with the second electrode (5). In operation, electrical current flows along a conductive pathway formed between the electrodes.Preferred Method: The method further comprises monitoring the pH of the first compartment and controlling the amount of light directed to the light-driven proton pump such that more light is directed at lower pH values.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Protein: The proton transporting protein comprises a portion of the redox enzyme.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred embodiment: the laminate comprises at least one gas-tight conductive plate A and at least two conductive plates B. The gas-tight conductive plate A is on both outer-most layers of the fuel cell stack. The slit has an end that is open to outside on a plane of the conductive plate B. The fuel cell stack has an external manifold on a side, for gas to be fed to and discharged from each of the unit cells. A lug, formed by an end of the slit, is inside the external manifold. The electrolyte is a proton-conductive polymer electrolyte. The separator has a laminating surface sealed with a gas-tight material. The conductive plate B is a punched metal plate.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: The metal hydride further comprises water vapor absorbing particles. The ratio of the water vapor absorbing particles to metal hydride particles is approximately 1:20. The water vapor absorbing particles comprise a desiccant.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Electrochemical Device: The electrochemical device comprises an electrolyzer and fuel cell or regeneration fuel cell. The electrochemical device is a hydrogen-metal oxide battery.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Check Valve: The dual one way check valve comprises two frusto-conical shaped. Each chamber has a constricted end (40) and a divergent end (42) and a ball (44) which is axially movable between the two ends. A biasing component such as a spring (46) biases the ball towards the constricted end such that the bias provides a predefined threshold pressure required to open the one way check valve. Alternatively the dual check valve arrangement has a nested configuration with one of the check valves being disposed radially outward of another check valve. Each check valve comprises a cylindrical surface having dent(s) into which radially extending through-hole(s) open. The through-hole(s) communicate between the hydrogen storage chamber and the containment can. Each cylindrical surface supports an elastic resilient band covering the through-hole and dent to establish a pressure differential between the chamber and the can. The band deforms to permit fluid communication in one direction across the valves when the pressure is greater in the chamber. When the pressure is greater in the can, the fluid communication is permitted in the other directions across the check valves.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Solvent: The glycol solvent used can be preferably ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, or a polypropylene glycol.Preferred Coolant: The glycol solvent to water ratio in the liquid coolant is 1:1. The liquid coolant has a conductivity of less than 5 microS/cm.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Unit: The ion exchange unit comprises an acidic cation resin or an alkaline anion resin (preferably hydroxyl type 2 strong base anion resin).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The grids and spacers are made from a polymer which is resistant to sulfuric acid e.g. polypropylene, polyethylene, PVC or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), and the fiber material can be of polypropylene.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Component: The battery case is provided with electrolyte solution. The battery also includes:(A) a conductive adhesive material filled with the carbon foam electrode and the plate and(B) an insulating layer.Preferred Condition: The porosity of the carbon foam electrode = 10-100 ppi.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Material: The insulating layer comprises an organic material, especially polycarbonate.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: The carbon foam electrode is silicon carbide foam.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - A polymer membrane module may be used
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Solvent: The organic complexing solvent can be dimethyl ether, ethylmethyl ether, methylpropyl ether, dipropyl ether, methylisopropyl ether, diisopropyl ether, methylbutyl ether, dibutyl ether, methyl t-butyl ether, methylhexyl ether, methyloctyl ether, di-(2-ethylhexyl) ether, or preferably diethyl ether; or tetrahydrofuran, 3-methyltetrahydrofuran, dihydropyran, oxepane, furan, 1,4-dioxepane, oxocane, 1,4-dioxocane, or preferably 1,4-dioxane. The organic complexing solvent can also be a mixture of two organic complexing solvents having a volume ratio of 1:10-10:1, or 1:3-3:1. The lithium salt can be alkylcarboxylates, arylcarboxylates, alkylsulfonates, arylsulfonates, phenolates, amides, fluoroalkylsulfonyl imides, fluoroalkylsulfonyl methides, fluoroalkylsulfonates, formula (i), (ii), or (iii), or preferably lithium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide. Preferred Method: The method further comprises filtering out the un-dissolved solids before crystallizing the lithium salt and the organic complexing agent from the solution. EXAMPLE - Impure lithium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide (59 g) was dissolved in 120 ml diethyl ether. After filtration, the solution was added to dry o-xylene (200 ml) in a round bottom flask heated in an oil bath. As the internal temperature increased from 85-108 degreesC, the distillate was removed and the flasks contents became turbid. With continued heating, the internal temperature was gradually increased to 140 degreesC and, as distillation continued, crystals were formed. Heating was stopped until 135 degreesC. After cooling, the flask was transferred to a glove box and the crystals, the diethyl ether solvate complex of lithium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide, were filtered and washed with hexane. The solvate was dissociated by heating under vacuum at 125 degreesC for 4 hours. 52.9 g lithium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide was obtained ( approximately 90% pure).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Process: The hydrogen generated from burning of sludge fuel is stored in a hydrogen absorbing alloy. The aluminum oxide generated is used as ceramic material.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Catalyst: The catalyst is an oxide support of a mixture of zirconium oxide (ZrO2) and cerium oxide (CeO2) containing gold. The oxide support present in the catalyst is at least 50 %, preferably 60 % by mass of the catalyst. The ratio of CeO2:ZrO2 is 5:1-2:1. The gold is associated with the transition metal oxide. The catalyst also includes an oxide of titanium or molybdenum.Preferred Metal Oxides: The metal oxide is cobalt oxide or ferric oxide. EXAMPLE - A gold-based catalyst in a total or partial oxidation of methane as the fuel comprises (i) an active component of 1 % gold and 1 % cobalt; and (ii) a support of 44 % CeO2, 38 % CeO2/ZrO2, 15 % titanium oxide and 3 % other oxides. Test result showed that the activity of the gold-based catalyst of the invention for methanol reformation is superior as compared to platinum catalyst. The methanol conversion was 100 % at 50 degreesC having no residual products of carbon monoxide.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Compound: The oxidizer and reducer is a metal containing compound. The metal can be copper, iron, cobalt, tin, gold, silver, palladium, platinum, nickel, lithium, aluminum, or titanium.Preferred Redox Couple: The redox couple includes a material selected from nitrate, alkoxide nitrate, alkoxide perchlorate, acetate nitrate, or acrylate nitrate. Preferred Solution: The first solution applied to the surface containing at most 5 wt.%, preferably at most 2 wt.% of particulate.Preferred Layer: The first layer consists of mixed metal oxide. The additional layer comprises an electrolyte.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: The redox couple is a formate.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred Method: Step (d) is carried out using a stamp a rotating plate, or a jet. The pattern has a lateral resolution below 10 micron. Step (e) includes radiating the applied solution with microwave radiation. The redox reaction result in the first layer consists of pure metal.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Substances: The conductive resin is thermosetting resin or thermoplastic resin containing carbon fiber, carbon particles, metal fiber and 5-50 volume percent of conductive metal powder. The thermosetting resin is phenol resin, epoxy resin or di-allyl phthalate resin. The thermoplastic resin is acrylonitrile butadiene styrene resin, polycarbonate resin, modified poly propylene oxide resin, polyacetal resin, polyphenylene sulfide resin or liquid crystal polymer resin.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - The current generation rotor converts the flow energy of the travel wind during movement of the vehicle into electrical energy for charging an electric storage battery.
SPECIFIC MATERIALS - The oxide mixture preferably comprises (a) 40-50% SiO2, 30-40% MgO, 0-10% CaO, 0-10% SrO, 0-10% BaO, 5-15% B2O3, 2-6% Al2O3 and 2-8% ZnO; or (b) 40-50% SiO2, 25-35% MgO, 3-10% CaO, 0-10% SrO, 3-10% BaO, 5-15% B2O3, 2-6% Al2O3 and 2-8% Y2O3.
EXAMPLE - A gas permeability gradient structure was produced from a 0.1-1.5 mm thick PTFE impregnated carbon fiber paper (4) of more than 50 (especially more than 70)% pore volume by hot pressing a 0.01-0.2 mm thick fluorinated thermoplastic film (3) onto the carbon fiber paper for partial blocking of its near-surface pores. Hot pressing was carried out at just below to just above the melting range of the thermoplastic and at 10-100 (especially 30-80) bars pressure. The modified paper surface was then coated with an electrode of catalyst-containing material (5) or applied directly onto an already catalyzed membrane.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Catalyst: The average valence state of the iridium is less than 6. The iridium is supported on a carrier comprising alumina (Al2O3) or a mixture of alumina and sodium borosilicate (NaBSiO4). At least 2/3 of the iridium is present with a valence state less than +6. The average valence state of the iridium is less than 2 and greater than -1. At least three quarters of the iridium is present in a metallic iridium state.Preferred Reaction: The reaction is conducted isothermally on the catalyst maintained at a constant temperature, preferably 80-300 degrees C, more preferably 210-260 degrees C.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Medium: The gaseous medium comprises 5 vol.% methanol, 50 vol.% H2 and balance of one or more gases selected from oxygen, nitrogen, CO, carbon dioxide and water. Methanol is present in an amount of 0.5-2.0 vol.%. The temperature is at least 180 degrees C, preferably 180-260 degrees C. Heating is conducted for up to 2 hours.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - The hydrophobic phase includes hydrophobic gas passages composed of 35-65 wt.% of a high structure carbon black and 65-35 wt.% of a hydrophobic polymer. The hydrophilic phase includes liquid passages composed of 30-70 wt.% of a low structure high surface area carbon black and 70-30 wt.% of a proton exchange resin. The bilayer consists of 50-80 volume% of the hydrophobic phase and 50-20 volume% of the hydrophilic phase, both regions being discrete.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred apparatus and process. The process chamber contains an absorbent (4), especially a charcoal or zeolite, that removes the impurities in the gas prior to cleaning. There may be more than one purification chamber so that one allows passage of purified hydrogen gas while the other one is closed off for removal of impurities. The detector may be an infrared, semiconductor, catalytic, electrochemical or a voltmeter. The cleaning of the absorbed impurities may be by a heterogeneous catalytic reaction, more preferably a catalytic oxidation process in which air or oxygen are introduced (8) to the chamber while it is isolated from the hydrogen gas stream by the control valves; an electrochemical reaction or a physical process, especially a vacuum system so the absorbed impurities may be released by a drop in pressure and removed via an exhaust. Valves (2,6) on the inlet (1) and outlet (5) regulate the flow of gas through the chamber(s). The purification chamber may be a single layer catalyst bed or may be incorporated into an electrochemical cell containing an anode, cathode and an electrolyte.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - The cell is a lithium ion cell, nickel hydride cell or nickel cadmium cell. The bore is cylindrical and the thermal conductor is a heat pipe with an anodized outer surface coated with a thermally conductive adhesive. The thermally conductive adhesive can be thermally conductive iron oxide or barium oxide. An electrically insulating sleeve of polysulphone is situated between the outer surface of the thermal conductor and the thermal adhesive.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The thermally conductive adhesive can be thermally conductive epoxy resins, room temperature vulcanizing rubbers or silicone rubbers.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred bipolar plate: The canal (62) within the inner part of the bipolar plate (10) has at least the width other surface of the canal width contacting the canal edges on the surface of the bipolar plate (10) or preferably, the second surface width of the canal width contacting the canal surface on the surface of the bipolar plate (10).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Stack: The stack further comprises:(a) a pair of end plates on opposite sides of the cell laminate, which apply a compressive force to the respective unit cells of the laminate in a laminating direction;(b) a pair of current collectors that collect electricity of the respective unit cells, each collector having a specific part that pierces the end plate; and(c) a pair of insulating members, each member being interposed between the current collector and the end plate.The inlet manifold has a cross section gradually decreasing towards a downstream. The outlet manifold has a cross section gradually increasing towards a downstream. The inlet and outlet manifolds are respectively arranged on side faces of cell laminate and in parallel to a laminating direction of the respective unit cells. The manifolds are arranged around periphery of cell laminate, so as to bind the respective unit cells and reduce a contact resistance between adjoining unit cells.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CERAMICS AND GLASS - Preferred Materials: The oxygen-permeable layer (5) is made of perovskite. The reaction space comprises porous ceramic, glass, metal, carbon, a polymer, or their combinations; with similar materials or their combinations being used for the hydrogen-permeable layer (3).    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Materials: A polymer passes oxygen selectively. The reaction space may comprise a porous polymer.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - Preferred Materials: Catalyst-coating and hydrogen-permeable metal layers are required.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Feedstock: The feedstock is especially methanol.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - Preferred Apparatus: An active control circuitry is coupled to high voltage DC output and is isolated from the vehicle ground. The circuitry comprises a controller which receives a sampled input responsive to the high voltage DC output and generates a pulse width modulated output to control the current input to rotors.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Materials: The positive active material used in electrode (2) is lithium manganese oxide (LnMn2O4) spinel. The Li/Mn ratio in the LiMn2O4 spinel exceeds 0.5. The negative active material to be used in electrode (3) is highly graphitized carbon material preferably in the form of fiber quality.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Battery: The total thickness ratio is not less than 0.05 and not more than 0.25. The battery capacity is not less than 5 Ah.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Materials: The membranes are fluorinated membranes (e.g. of Nafion (RTM)), membranes of sulfonated polymers with (partially) aromatic backbones such as polysulfone, polyethersulfone, polyetherketone or polybenzimidazole, or membranes of sulfonated polymers such as polystyrenes. The inert coating of the interconnection structure consists of a polysulfone, polyethersulfone, polyetherketone, polybenzimidazole, partially or perfluorinated polymer (e.g. polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)), polyethylene, polypropylene or polystyrene.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Properties: The thru-plane resistivity of the water transport plate is approximately 0.02 ohm-cm. Its compressive yield strength is approximately 1050 psi. Its pore size is approximately 1.9 microns while its open porosity is approximately 40 volume percent. It has a bubble pressure of approximately 10.5 psig. The water permeability through the transport plate is approximately 200 x 10-17 m2. WIDER DISCLOSURE - A preferred method of manufacturing the water transport plate comprises mixing graphite powder, reinforcing fibers, cellulosic fibers and a thermosetting resin with a liquid to form a slurry. This slurry is showered onto a screen to form a planar sheet that is dried to form paper. This paper is cut into the desired dimensions and laid-up. The lay-up is laminated with pressure and heat, carbonized and then graphitized to form a water transport plate.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Apparatus: The reformer stage (12) forms a current-upstream part of a reaction chamber (1), in which the CO shift stage (10) is integrated as current-downstream part. The catalytic burner unit (3, 8, 9, 11) is formed as a stage for the selective CO oxidation of the reformate product.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Composition: The proportion of the rubber-modified phenolic resin is 5-50 pts.wt. per 100 pts.wt. of the conductive powder. The rubber modification degree of the phenolic resin is 10-90 %. The average particle diameter of the conductive powder is 10-100 micro m. The fuel cell separator has an elastic modulus in bending of 40-1 GPa and a deflection at rupture in bending test of 0.1-3 mm. EXAMPLE - A scaly graphite powder (100 pts.) having an average particle diameter of 30 micro m and an acrylic rubber-modified phenolic resin (30 pts.) having a rubber modification degree of 20 were mixed for 10 minutes using a mixer. The resulting mixture was placed in a mold of 200 x 200 mm and molded into a separator shape under a mold temperature of 160 degrees C, molding pressure = 150 kg/cm2 and a molding time = 5 minutes. The molding obtained showed the following properties: Bulk density = 1.78 g/cm3, resistivity = 30 mOhm/cm3; elastic modulus in bending = 8 GPa; deflection at rupture in bending test = 0.40 mm; Shore hardness = 25. Separately, a fuel cell separator having a thickness of 1.0 mm was produced in the same manner and used in a fuel cell, and the condition of this was good.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Method: A phenolic resin powder layer of thickness 0.01 inches, is melted by increasing the temperature at a rate of approximately 0.1-4 degreesC/minute to a temperature between 80-160 degreesC, such that the powdered particles stick to themselves to form a porous network. The porous network is carbonized in presence of hydrogen to form a carbonized network. The carbonized network is hydrogenated by heating in a hydrogen atmosphere at greater than 650 degreesC. The carbonized network is oxidized by treating with nitric acid, immediately prior to hydrogenating step. The carbonized network is then sulfonated by heating it in fuming sulfuric acid, concentrated H2SO4, SO3 or chlorosulfonic acid, preferably fuming H2SO4. EXAMPLE - 4 g of blend containing powdered phenolic resin (80%) and powdered high surface area carbon (20%) in a disk was carbonized in nitrogen by raising the temperature to 140 C at a rate of 0.1 degreesC/minute and held for 5 hours. It was then heated to 832 C at a rate of 0.4 degreesC/minute and held for two hours. After cooling, the disk was removed and the wafers were sawed. The wafers were heated in concentrated nitric acid at 80 degreesC for 1 hour, rinsed, dried and then heated in pure hydrogen at a rate of 1 degreesC/minute to 730 degreesC and held for 5 hours. After cooling, the wafer was immersed in fuming H2SO4 and the vessel was heated to 125 degreesC under argon atmosphere. The excess sulfuric acid was drained and the wafers were immersed in ice-water mixture. The density, electrical conductivity and BET surface area of the carbon were 0.75 g/cm3, 20 S/cm and 750 m2/g respectively.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Method: At first heating step, the polymer film material is heated at room temperature to 100 degreesC at the rate of 2-3 degreesC/min for one hour. The temperature of polymer film material is increased to 130 degreesC for 2-3 hours and again increased to 150 degreesC for 2 hours. The temperature of polymer film material is increased to 160 degreesC for 14-28 hours. The polymer film is soaked in water, methanol or ethanol before performing the first heating step. The oxidizing atmosphere for forming the carbon film is carbon dioxide and the microporous carbon film having density of 0.7-1 g/cm2 is obtained.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Silicone rubber or epoxy resin gap-filling adhesive is employed.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Cell: The fuel cell stack used in the claimed method has at least two fuel cell structures. In a first fuel cell structure, anode gas is passed in a first direction along an anode. The anode gas is then passed in an opposite direction through a second fuel cell structure. The degree of utilization in both structures is less than 45%. The fuel cell structures are electrically connected in series. The claimed fuel cell comprises a solid, negatively charged oxygen species-permeable matrix. A cathode is on a side of the matrix that is adapted for passing of an oxygen-comprising gas along the cathode while its other side is in contact with a liquid corrosive salt. The anode is an electricity conducting, solid carbon-comprising material.Preferred Method: The fuel cell is supplied with additional heat. Solid carbon-comprising material particles are brought into contact with molten carbonate and due to flow the particles come into contact with the anode. Conversion is performed at higher than 1000 K, particularly higher than 1100 K. The method is preferably performed in the presence of a catalyst that is a metal ion having two positive valencies. The carbon monoxide-comprising gas in a second fuel cell is used for generating electricity. Heating occurs by heat developed by the second fuel cell or by utilizing solar energy.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: The carbon comprising material is preferably solid. It is from carbon products, biomass or thermically treated biomass.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Component: The surface and core layers are integral part of the plate. The plate defines multiple coplanar flow fields. The core layer comprises multiple layers that are formed to provide passages in the second set. The passages of each first set are concentric and circular, single or multiple start helices. The set of first passages is provided to carry hydrogen and adjacent passages on the other side of the plate carry oxygen and water. At least one of the surface and core layers is formed of a metal resistant to corrosion under the operating conditions of a fuel cell. It is rendered conductive by metallizing with the corrosion resistant metal. The flow field plate (1) includes ports or permeation paths connecting the alternate and remaining passages of the first set. The passages receiving water of reaction during operation of the plate contain wicks. At least one passages of the second set contains heat pipe to conduct thermal energy.Preferred Method: The second set of passages is formed by drilling in the plane of the core layer. The plate is of sandwich construction and the surface and core layers are formed separately. The first and second sets of passages are also formed separately in the layers and the second set of passage is formed by slots or recesses in the core layer. The core layer is formed from compressible conductive material and the passages are pressed into the material. Each first set of passages is machined in the material of its respective surface layer.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Component: At least one of the surface and core layers is formed of graphite.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Cell: The support is acicular carbon fibers. A layer of conductive particles is formed between catalyst reaction layer and gas diffusion layer. A part of the layer which consists of the conductive particles penetrates into the gas diffusion layer. The material of the conductive particles is the same or different of the high polymer electrolyte thin film. Specifically the conductive particles are PTFE coated carbon particles. A hydrogen ion diffusion layer is formed on at least either of the catalyst particles in the catalyst reaction layer and the support. Specifically the hydrogen ion diffusion layer is formed by chemically bonding a silane compound to the above surfaces.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Process: Oxidation is performed in the presence of an oxidation catalyst. The purified hydrogen stream and air is passed to a fuel cell to produce electrical energy. Air devoid of oxygen is separated from water vapor present in the fuel exhaust. The reformate stream and purified hydrogen are cooled before passing to a separator and the fuel cells respectively. The exhaust gas is cooled before passing through the combustor. Heat released during the cooling of the reformate stream, purified H2 and/or exhaust stream is used to heat air devoid of oxygen, water vapor and/or fuel cell exhaust stream. Combustion gas and/or exhaust gas is expanded to release energy and the energy released is used to operate turbines and/or pumps.Preferred Catalyst: The catalyst is selected from noble metals.Preferred Arrangement: The combustor has a combustion zone for oxidizing exhaust gas and the combustion zones present in the reforming zone are separated from each other by surfaces.Preferred Combustor: The combustor comprises conduits located in the reforming zone for combusting the exhaust gas stream.Preferred Function: A cooler cools the reformate stream, purified hydrogen and/or exhaust gas. A condenser condenses water in the exhaust gas and back pressure device to maintain the pressure in the condenser from 100 kPa to operating pressure. A recycler directs the water vapor to a reforming zone from the fuel cell exhaust stream and/or water vapor stream.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - PREFERRED METHOD : The hydrogen-rich gas can be delivered to a carbon monoxide shift reactor (7) for further enrichment with hydrogen, and subjected to treatment steps to remove carbon dioxide and hydrocarbon. A molten carbonate or solid oxide fuel cell is used. A mixture of oxygen and nitrogen (preferably air) is supplied to the cathode, and the hydrogen-rich flow of gas is combined with a nitrogen-containing, low oxygen content flow of gas from the cathode, the resulting gas mixture being brought into contact with a catalyst for selective oxidation of any remaining hydrocarbon to deliver a flow of gas with a significantly reduced oxygen content which is then subjected to a carbon monoxide shift reaction. The flow of oxygen/nitrogen mixture and nitrogen-containing, low oxygen content gas is chosen to allow all the oxygen present to react with the hydrocarbon and carbon monoxide from the anode, and to provide a hydrogen/nitrogen molar ratio of 1:3 in the nitrogen and hydrogen-rich gas stream. Electrical loading of the fuel cell is used to control reaction conditions. EXAMPLE - None given.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - COMPUTING AND CONTROL - Preferred Apparatus: The apparatus further comprises a temperature detector for detecting the temperature of the heater (3), and a (S15) device for changing the amount of heat fuel (Qm) and the amount of the oxidizer (Qa) based on the detected temperature.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - COMPUTING AND CONTROL - Preferred Apparatus: The apparatus further comprises: a device for detecting a shortage in an amount of heat sufficient for heating the reformate fuel by the heat value when burning the emission containing unreacted flammable gas in the combustion portion; a device for supplying a heating fuel into the combustion portion when the shortage of the heat value is detected; a device for detecting the temperature of the combustion portion; and a device for stopping supply of the heating fuel to the combustion portion when the detected temperature of the reformate fuel exceeds a predetermined temperature.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - The zinc oxygen cell uses zinc as its another electrolyte selected from lithium hydroxide, sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide and cesium hydroxide.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - The retention device is used for a battery providing the onboard electrical power for a vehicle.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - The liquid electrolyte battery employing thermal convection circulation of the electrolyte provides the onboard electrical power for a vehicle.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Separator: The film has a pore volume of 0.3-5.2 cc/g film.Preferred Process: During formation of the conductive coating film, microcracks are formed at the surface during shrinkage of the film.Preferred Embodiment: The conductive coating may be formed from a conductive powder and a binder as above, plus a perishable additive (0.1-100 pts.wt. per 100 pts.wt. of powder), which is allowed to perish when the film has been formed. EXAMPLE - A carbon composite separator base with a roughened surface (by blasting) was spray coated with a composition comprising carbon black of average particle diameter 22 nm (100 pts.wt.), a phenolic resin (150 pts.wt.) and polyvinyl alcohol (5 pts.wt.) as a perishable additive, then heated to 120degreesC at 40degreesC/hour to dry the coating. The separator was immersed in hot water to elute the perishable additive and dried. The film produced had a thickness of 60 microns. The contact angle, measured by the sessile drop method, was 43degrees after 30 seconds and unmeasurable after 5 minutes as the water droplets had sunk completely into the film. The film had a water-holding capacity of 1.8 g/g, a pore volume of 2.0 cc/g, an adhesion rating of A by the cross-cut method of JIS K5400 and there was no plugging of the separator grooves caused by the water formed during electricity generation.
EXAMPLE - A pre-reformer (1) was supplied with 1 mol/mol CO2/CH4 and 0.7 mol/mol H2O/CH4 to provide a C:H:O ratio of 1:2.3:1.1. The resulting gas mixture was fed from the pre-reformer to high temperature fuel cells (2) and depleted fuel gas was fed from the high temperature fuel cells to a unit (3) in which part of its water content was separated by condensation. Part of the treated fuel gas was fed to a post-combustion chamber, while the remainder was injected, together with methane, by a return line (5) into the pre-reformer supply line (6). The heat, from the post-combustion chamber (4), was delivered to the pre-reformer (1) and to heat exchangers (8, 9). Air was supplied to and heated in the first heat exchanger (8) before supply to the high temperature fuel cells (2).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Electrolyte: The dicarboxylic acid is a straight chain acid, preferably dimer acid salt. At least one hydrotropic agent agent is a long chain alcohol or a long chain monocarboxylic acid. The solution further comprises a glycol type solvent. SPECIFIC COMPOUNDS - The dicarboxylic acid is 1,10 dodecanedioic acid. The hydrotropic agent is lauric acid, n-octanol, pelargonic acid, N,N-diethyldodecanamide and N,N-(2-hydroxyethyl)-laurarnide.    EXAMPLE - An electrolyte was made by adding the following constituents (in wt%) and in the order indicated while stirring. Ethylene glycol (90.00), lauric acid (0.75), boric acid (0.75), dimer acid (0.50), di water (1.00), ammonium hydroxide (1.00), mannitol (2.50), 1-octanol (2.50), o-nitroanisole (1.00). Before the 1-octanol was added, it was first mixed and heated to 75 degreesC. The resistivity of the electrolyte was measured as 1500 Ohm.cm at 25 degreesC, and 1256 Ohm.cm at 30 degreesC, and the apparent pH was 7.51. The electrolyte had good solubility at low temperature: It did not separate into different phases on standing at room temperature and, in fact, remained clear and without separation of phases when cooled to -30 degreesC. At approximately -35 degreesC, a small amount of 1-octanol was observed to separate as a solid phase. However, if the 1-octanol and lauric acid were omitted and the ammonium hydroxide concentration were adjusted to the same pH, the electrolyte would separate into an oil, dimer acid and glycol phases on standing at room temperature. It is also noted that the electrolye was life tested in a number of capacitors. 600 WV capacitors were made having a 840 W anode and using this electrolyte. Ale capacitors were aged to a final voltage of 625 V at 75 degreesC. Life tests of 12 such elcaps demonstrated that the electrolyte was suitable for a 105degrees C.1550 V rated capacitor operation and had a superior lifetime.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CERAMICS AND GLASS - Preferred Apparatus: Oxygen is supplied through a hollow ceramic fiber matrix, possibly having catalytic activity. High temperature-resistant materials permeable to and non-permeable to hydrogen are present.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRONICS - The total cross-sectional area for aluminum, copper and nickel is not less than 0.009 cm2, preferably 0.014 cm2, not less than 0.005 cm2, preferably 0.008 cm2, and not less than 0.004 cm2, preferably 0,008 cm2, respectively. The sum of tab resistances is preferably not more than 1 milli ohm.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Materials: The ceramic material is chosen from zirconia, alumina, silicon nitride, silicon carbide, titanium carbide, tungsten carbide, titanium nitride, silicon-aluminum oxynitride, graphite, titanium diboride, boron carbide and molybdenum disilicide. The ceramic material preferably comprises zirconia stabilized with yttria, ceria, calcia or magnesia or their mixtures. The metallic material comprises intermetallic materials chosen from titanium-niobium alloy containing 45% or 35% titanium, copper containing alloy, chromium-copper alloy, beryllium-copper alloy and dispersion strengthened copper. The braze material additionally comprises at least 3% niobium and is preferably chosen from 50-50 Ti-Ni material.Preferred Conditions: The braze material is heated preferably at 1000-1100 degreesC for about 2-30 min and then gradually cooled. A pressure of 2000-5000 psi is applied on at least one of the interface surfaces when the braze material is heated.Preferred Component Assembly: The ceramic and metallic materials are hermetically sealed through an intermediate layer comprising 50-50 Ti-Ni alloy. The assembly has an interface zone comprising the braze material and granular structures dispersed in the sealing alloy material. The granular structures have high niobium content.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Materials: The ceramic coating is a binary oxide and/or ternary oxide, especially aluminum oxide.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Apparatus: The reforming unit (18) has a mixer (20) for the raw material (28) and an oxygen-containing material, especially water and/or air. The raw material is methanol or gasoline.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - The electrical heating element is powered by an alternator (10) that is driven by a diesel engine (11) with a fuel tank fixed on a platform (12).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Process: Hydrogen is fed as fuel to a fuel cell to produce electrical energy and heat.Preferred Fuel Cell: The fuel cell is preferably of the phosphoric acid type, proton exchange membrane, solid polymer or any other suitable type.Preferred Reactor: The partial oxidation/reforming or partial oxidation/reforming/shift reactor is a fixed bed reactor or any other type which consists of tubes in the internal wall where the catalyst is deposited and in the external wall the same or another catalyst is deposited or more than one catalyst in series.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Catalyst: The catalyst contains a group VIII metal or a transition metal oxide, either supported or not.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - The battery plug closes an electric storage battery cell and collects the condensed battery gases.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Method: To produce films that conduct both ions and electronics, the film is bombarded with acceptors or donors by a second ion source and these are implanted between the implanted elements from the first source. The donors and acceptors may be passed over the substrate surface, rather than directly to the second ion source. It is also possible to pass a mixture of elements with donors and acceptors directly to the first ion source; and to bombard the film with elements, acceptors and donors in a composition varying with time.Conditions: Implantation is carried out in vacuo at 10-6-10-2 mbar (disclosed). SPECIFIC COMPOUNDS - Specific examples of the acceptors are trichloroferrate (FeCl3), fluoride (F), pentafluoroarsenate (AsF5), tetrafluoroborate (BF4) and perchlorate (ClO4). Specific examples of the donors are alkali metals.    EXAMPLE - Bombardment of polysulphone film with sulphur S+ and oxygen (O+) ions at an extraction potential of 60 keV and pressure of 10-4 mbar gave a proton conducting film. Bombardment with carbon ions gave an electron conducting film. The dose of implanted particles = 1016-1022 particles/cm2, according to the properties required.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Oxidant: The oxidant is an oxygen-containing gas. The oxidant is preferably air, nitrous oxide, nitrogen dioxide, nitric oxide, carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, sulfur trioxide or steam and is especially air.Preferred Core: The monolithic ionically conductive core is an oxygen ion conductive ceramic core, a proton conductive polymer core or a proton conductive ceramic core. The oxygen conductive ceramic core is prepared from yttria-doped zirconia, rare earth-doped cerium oxide or rare earth-doped bismuth oxide. The proton conductive ceramic core is prepared from barium cerate, strontium cerate or rare earth cerate. The proton conductive polymer core is prepared from a perfluorinated ionomer. Preferred Composition: Both the electrically conductive coating (serving as the cathode) and the electrically conductive material (55) comprise lanthanum manganite, strontium-doped lanthanum manganite, dispersed noble metal, dispersed noble alloy, carbon or ruthenium oxide. Both the electrically conductive material (serving as the anode) and the electrically conductive material (60) comprise nickel-dispersed doped zirconia, nickel-dispersed yttria-doped zirconia, dispersed noble metal, dispersed noble alloy, carbon or ruthenium oxide.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Fuel: The fuel is hydrogen or a 1-20C hydrocarbyl compound.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Conditions: The monolithic mass and energy transfer cell is heated at 25-90 degreesC.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The body is made of a solid silicone based material or fluorinated silicone elastomer.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Process: Hydrogen is formed in the cathode chamber in the presence of an inert gas atmosphere. An electric current is withdrawn from the anode and cathode.Preferred Cell: The anode is formed from compressed carbon powder containing a metal catalyst, preferably at least one of molybdenum (Mo), cobalt (Co), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), copper (Cu), chromium (Cr), tungsten (W), nickel (Ni), iron (Fe) or manganese (Mn), by the sol-gel technique. The conducting membrane is perfluorosulfonic acid or polybenzimidazole. The cathode is also formed from pressed carbon powder loaded with catalyst (preferably platinum).Preferred Conditions: The anode and cathode chambers are maintained 125-165 degreesC, 20 psi. EXAMPLE - An GDE 21 anode comprising MoCoSx/C (5.8 mg/cm2) and a cathode comprising Pt/C (4 mg/cm2) were bonded to a conductive electrolyte to form Membrane Electrode Assembly (MEA). 99.8% of pure H2S and 99.8% oxygen were passed at 3 atmospheres pressure and 130 degreesC into a fuel cell containing the electrodes. The cell had an open circuit potential EOC of 713 mV, an electric current (J) of 200mA/cm2 and maximum power (Wmax) of 40mW/cm2.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Alloying is in H2 at 500-900 degreesC or in Ar at 900-1200 degreesC.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - This method can be used on the following materials(1) Aluminum(2) Stainless steel(3) Titanium(4) Inconel (TM)(5) Nickel-chromium
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Reformer: When the burner is fixed to the top of the reformer, each distillation plate is installed on the lower end of the outer tube and inner tube. When the burner is fixed to the bottom of the reformer, the distillation plates are installed on the top end of the outer tube and inner tube. The reformer also has a steam generator in the inner or outer part of the reformer. The reformer can be combined with a fuel cell.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Apparatus: Downstream the apparatus has:(i) a larger number of oxygen supplying pipes with a smaller diameter to reduce the amount of oxygen introduced;(ii) a larger diameter casing with a larger cross section having a smaller resistance for the hydrogen-rich gas stream;(iii) a carrier for the catalyst of larger diameter; and(iv) a smaller number of cooling pipes.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOTECHNOLOGY - Preferred Process: The strains of bacteria are co-cultured on thio-sulfides. Preferred Microorganism: The strains of bacteria are from Thiobacillus denitrificans.Preferred Composition: At least 20% (preferably 40-60) of the improved co-cultural blend comprises the co-cultures of the strains of Thiobacillus.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Process: Sulfide is converted to sulfate in an aerobic reaction by oxygen-consuming bacteria cultures, or in an anoxic reaction.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Additives: Magnesium oxide and caustic are used to control pH of the sulfides during application of the improved co-cultural blend to the wastewater. Ammonia is provided to the strains of the bacteria by the breakdown of total Kjeldahl nitrogen. Phosphate (preferably mono-calcium phosphate) is added to the wastewater. Nitrate salts are used to provide an electron donor source for the strains of bacteria.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Method: The oxidizing agent is ambient air. The noble metal is platinum. The metal oxide consists of tin oxide in association with 1-12 atom%, preferably 3 atom% of a promoter selected from metal oxide of transition series elements in the periodic table. The catalyst comprises 15 wt.% of platinum with the remaining unpromoted tin oxide.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Compound: The volatile organic compound is an oxygen containing compound such as methanol, ethanol, propanol, isopropyl alcohol, ketone, ether, epoxide, aldehyde or carboxylic acid. SPECIFIC COMPOUNDS - The volatile organic compound is methane, ethane, propane, butane, and pentane.    EXAMPLE - 0.4-0.5 g of a sample was introduced into a reactor provided with 90-100 mg of catalyst. The catalyst was exposed to nitrogen or air at 35 degreesC. The air stream was switched to the hydrocarbon (HC) test gas and the temperature was increased at a rate of 2 degreesC/minute for 5 minutes. After 15 minutes, the temperature was raised for complete oxidation of HC. The system was cooled to 35 degreesC. The light-off temperature ranged from 150 degreesC (for hexane) to 220 degreesC (for methane). The greater the number of carbon atoms per molecule, the more easily the hydrocarbon oxidized. The complete oxidation occurred at temperatures below the auto-ignition temperature of each hydrocarbon (309 degreesC for pentane to 537 degreesC for methane). 100 mg or less of catalyst oxidized 6500 ppm of methanol to carbon dioxide at 29 +/- 1 degreesC, over an oxygen concentration range of 20% down to near stoichiometry at which the catalyst activity decreased. For ethanol, propanol and isopropyl alcohol, oxidation began at catalyst temperatures 30-125 degreesC, 50-120 degreesC and 100 degreesC, respectively.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: The amount of activator is 0.125-5.0 wt.%. The activator is copper oxide. The amount of glycol is 8 wt.pts.Preferred Method: A metallic oxide particles, carrier, hygroscopic moistening agent of 5-35 wt.% are mixed and placed in a reactor vessel to form dehydrated gas. SPECIFIC MATERIALS - The metal oxide is iron oxide.    The glycol present in the metal oxide composition is triethylene glycol, polypropylene glycol and propylene glycol.    EXAMPLE - (In lbs) Triethylene glycol (1.62), inert carrier (5.92), water (0.22), iron oxide powder (2.17) and copper oxide powder (0.07) were mixed. The composition was taken in a sealed glass test column and maintained at 70 degreesF. Nitrogen gas containing 450-500 ppm of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) was passed to the column. The amount of hydrogen sulfide remaining in the nitrogen was calculated. The amount of H2S was 165 ppm which showed the removal of sulfur was effective.
EXAMPLE - Pseudomonas TI-E was added to a medium containing 250 mg/l tallow, 40 mg/l meat extract, 60 mg/l peptone, 10 mg/l urea, 60 mg/l NaCl, 37 mg/l Ca chloride dihydrate, 41 ng/l Mg sulfate heptahydrate and 504 mg/l disodium phosphate dodecahydrate to 50 mg/l and cultured at 15 degrees Celsius for 24 hours. The culture was extracted with n-hexane to determine the rate of oil decomposition. The decomposition rate was 57.9 % compared to 5.0 % for activated sludge.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Process: A carrier of organic or inorganic substance is allowed to mix with the microorganism. The decomposition target object is mixed and treatment is carried out. The decomposability and growth of the microorganism is increased by separation of minerals by addition, stirring, air passage and combined means. The organic or inorganic substances are sand and stone.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Chamber: Several partition plates (51) are installed into the reaction chamber vertically. The reaction chamber is formed between cylinder (12) of large diameter and cylinder (11) of small diameter which are arranged coaxially. The cross section of the partition plate is in curved shape. The granular catalyst is supplied through the holes in the partition plate. An edge connecting a partition to concave part is formed on the surrounding wall of reaction chamber. A cyclic object is provided into the cylindrical space by forming cross-sectional cyclic cylindrical space. A disk-shaped object is provided into the cylindrical space. Preferred Board: The bottom board has many small holes with small diameter. Both bottom board and partition plate are formed from stainless steel, inconel, incoloy or steel.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Metals: 0.5 or 5 weight percent (wt.%), preferably 0.5 or 1.0 wt % of alkali or alkaline earth metals such as magnesium, calcium or barium is contained in the catalyst. The noble metals are platinum, palladium provided on at least one side of the catalyst. SPECIFIC COMPOUNDS - The alkali metal is sodium, potassium or caesium. The basic metallic oxide is cerium dioxide (CeO2) or zirconium dioxide (ZrO2).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOLOGY - Preferred Method: Filamentous fungi cleaves the beta-allylether bond in lignin. SPECIFIC MICROORGANISMS - The fungi is Trichoderma (f5053 strain) (FERM P-17251), Arthrinium (f5518 strain) (FERM P-17253), Humicola (f5342 strain) (FERM P-17252), filamentous fungi (f5520 strain) (FERM P-17254), or strain 2BW-1 (FERM P-17266).    EXAMPLE - Filamentous fungi which had the ability to cut the beta-allylether bond in lignin was cultured in a solution containing glucose, yeast, trace metals and biotin aqueous solution and isolated.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Apparatus: The apparatus is further configured with a combustion furnace for burning thermolyzed gas.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Apparatus: The apparatus has a vapor recovery unit connected to the vapor recovery duct which is arranged among the cooling unit. The cold water tank is connected to a condenser which is connected to the vapor recovery unit. The temperature sensor arranged among the cooling unit detects the temperature of the carbon material. Spraying control units are arranged among the cooling part so that the cold water spraying state of the nozzles, is controlled based on the signal obtained from temperature sensor.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: The alloy preferably comprises 30% or 60% hafnium, 25% or 75% zirconium or 25% or 70% yttrium. The alloy is processed into a thin wire having diameter of 20-100 mum.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOTECHNOLOGY - Preferred Composition: The proteolytic enzyme is DeterzymeTM in amount 5-20wt%, the cellulolytic enzyme is cellulase in amount 5-20wt%, and the odor blocker is OrdenoneTM in amount 0-5wt%, each relative to the composition.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - The effervescent system preferably comprises 10-40wt% sodium bicarbonate, 0-15wt% sodium carbonate, and 5-20wt% of acid (e.g. citric acid).    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: the composition further comprises a fragrance, a binder, and/or a color. Preferably, the binder is sorbitol used in amount 5-25wt%. ADMINISTRATION - The product can also be provided in a liquid, granular or tablet form.    EXAMPLE - The composition was prepared from 5-20wt% fine granular citric acid, 10-40wt% sodium bicarbonate, 5-20wt% sorbitol, 5-20wt% DeterzymeTM, 0-15wt% sodium bicarbonate, 0-5wt% Atlanta fragrance No. 21544, 0-2wt% FDandC Blue No. 1.5-20wt% cellulase, and 0-5wt% Ordenone TM.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Treatment: The horse dung bacteria include bacteria for primary metabolism to decompose organic waste by digesting with water, carbon dioxide and carbohydrates to give a primary metabolite, bacteria for secondary metabolism by providing vitamins and amino-acids to the first metabolite to generate a second metabolite, and bacteria for photosynthesis to control the growth and activity of the first and second metabolism bacteria. Activity of the biosynthesis bacteria is promoted by infra-red irradiation.Preferred Facility: An air supply device is provided to send air to the stable floor waste in the treatment tank. The treatment layer is installed outside the house with a transparent or semi-transparent roof for sunlight to penetrate into such treatment layer. Inside the treatment layer, a infra-red lamp is provided for irradiation with infra-red light. EXAMPLE - A facility was constructed for treating organic waste as specified.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred support: The support is a foam of cellulose group. The cellulose group foam carries an activated carbon.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Method: Electric current of a motor of slurry feed pump (4) is measured and the input of waste plastic to mixed tank is controlled depending on the electric current charge. The slurry feed pump is used for supplying slurry to the apparatus.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Apparatus: The bottom of the cage has series of parallel rotors with radial projections. The cage also includes a switch mounted in the frame for operating the conveyor and/or rotors. The frame has a hook (18) to lift the cage on a vehicle for transportation. EXAMPLE - No example given.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOLOGY - Preferred Compositions: The NC used contain 40-90% by weight (wt%) ammonium nitrate, 1-50 wt% potassium phosphate dibasic, 2-50 wt% magnesium sulfate, 1-20 wt% iron (III) chloride, 0.2-15 wt% calcium chloride, and 0.1-10 wt% yeast extract as effective components. The formulations contains these as well as the bacterial strain(s). EXAMPLE - A nutrient salt culture medium was prepared containing 1.0 g ammonium nitrate, 0.1 g potassium phosphate dibasic, 0.2 g magnesium sulfate heptahydrate, 0.05 g iron (III) chloride hexahydrate, 0.02 g calcium chloride, 0.01 g yeast extract, 20.0 g sodium chloride, and 1000 ml distilled water to pH 6.5-7.0. TFBOL-1 bacteria were planted in the culture prepared by shaking at 120 strokes per minute at 25 degreesC for 4 days. Bacteria were collected from the solution by centrifugation at 3500 rpm (revolutions per minute) for 20 minutes, washed twice, and suspended in 1 ml of preparatory culture medium to a bacterial count of 109 per ml.    A main culture solution was prepared by adding crude oil to a nutritive salt culture medium in quantity of 1 wt%, which then underwent autoclave sterilization at 121 degreesC for 20 minutes. 1 ml of the bacterial suspension was inoculated into 100 ml of the main culture solution, and was cultured by shaking at 120 strokes per minute at 30 degreesC for 10 days, so that the bacterial count after 10 days was 6.5 x 109. After culturing for 10 days, the main culture solution was extracted twice using 100 ml of chloroform per 100 ml of culture solution each time. The extract obtained was sent through a column filled with anhydrous sodium nitrate to perform dehydration and cell-body elimination, yielding a chloroform extract fraction. This extract was dried at 60 degreesC in the presence of an air flow until it reached a constant weight, which was treated as a quantity of crude oil remaining.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Process: The method further comprises, after the gas cleaning process, a selective oxidation process for selectively oxidizing CO by bringing the CO contained in the washed gas into contact with an oxygen-containing gas in the presence of a catalyst. The method also comprises, after the cleaning process or before the selective oxidation, a modification process for producing H2 and CO2 from CO and water vapor contained in the gas in the presence of a catalyst. The method also comprises a chemical absorption process for CO2 comprising bringing CO2 into contact with an alkaline solution so as to remove CO2, or a CO2 adsorption process for bringing CO2 into contact with an adsorber, before the CO-adsorption process. The method comprises a H2-purification process for separating the N2 and Ar contained in the formed gas and for increasing the H2 pressure using a H2-adsorbing alloy.Preferred Power Generation: In the fuel cell the heat obtained by cooling the fuel cell is used as a heating source for discharging H2 from the H2-adsorbing alloy.Preferred Cell: The fuel cell is a solid polymer type or phosphoric acid type. WIDER DISCLOSURE - An electric power generation method comprises supplying the H2 obtained by this process to a fuel cell.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOLOGY - Preferred Method: The microorganisms are isolated from the intestines of termites (Coptotermes) and the degreasing wood meal is treated by organic solvent method. Preferred Microorganism: The microorganism is Actinomyces or Streptomyces such as Streptomyces eurythermus CA 1 (FERM P-17249) or CA 2 (FERM P-17250).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Structure: The apparatus includes a hopper (10), a loosening device (11) and a blade (12). The hopper reliably moves waste which falls onto the conveyer. The loosening device loosens organic waste and is arranged inside the hopper. The blade removes organic waste adhering to the conveyance surface and drops it into the hopper. The conveyer is inclined towards the conveyance direction. The conveyer is a belt in the shape of mesh or bamboo curtains and is water permeable. The upper portion of the conveyer is air permeable and the water vapor generated during fermentation collides with the mesh like panel, forms dew on an inclined dew formation panel (8) and is removed by the dew formation panel. An inclined pipe is arranged below the conveyer for removing waste water from the organic waste.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOLOGY - Preferred Method: Mowed grass or weeds are added along with the rice bran and fermentation microbes. Crab shell is added whilst performing fermentation at 60-70degreesC. During the three steps of fermentation the moisture content is adjusted to 50-55%, 55-65% and 50-60% respectively.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Metal: The metal is preferably a group 2A, 6A, 7A, 8, 1B, 2B or 3B metal.Preferred Activated carbon: The activated carbon is preferably in the form of a powder, granules or a formed product. It preferably has a BET specific surface area of at least 750 m2/g.Preferred Proportion Of Metal (Compound): The amount of the metal or metal compound supported on the activated carbon is preferably 0.1-30 weight percent (as percentage of the activated carbon).Preferred Method: The metal is preferably deposited using a gas-phase reaction method.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Process: A stage-cut is provided between ethylene-rich permeate stream and non-product stream of at least 30%, preferably at least 50%. The membrane comprises a rubbery polymer preferably, silicone rubber. The membrane has an ethylene or argon selectivity of at least 4. The ethylene-rich permeate stream contains at least 90% of the ethylene that was present in the non-product stream. The non-product stream contains carbon-dioxide, and is treated to remove carbon-dioxide and then recirculated to reactor. The non-product stream is compressed before passing through membrane for separation. A portion of the ethylene-rich permeate stream is recirculated to the compressed non-product stream.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Microorganism: At least 1 kind of filamentous fungi which belongs to Rhizoctonia, Helicomyces, Phoma, Chaetomium, Dactylaria or Gonytrichum genus is used additionally for decomposing wood. The basidiomycetes microbes are Pycnoporus coccineus, enokitake mushroom such as Flammulina velutipes or an oyster mushroom such as Pleurotus ostreatus. Preferred Microbial Composite: The Oyster mushroom and filamentous fungi of Rhizoctonia genus, or enokitate mushroom and filamentous fungi of Gonytrichum genus are decomposing wood.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Metal: The metal is preferably a group 2A, 6A, 7A, 8, 1B, 2B or 3B metal.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Process: The period of pulse voltage of cell 1 is controlled so that the period of impression of pulse voltage to cell 2 is set to predetermined range.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOLOGY - Preferred Components: The aerobic and facultative bacteria are Aerobacter, Bacillus, Pseudomonas, Cellulomonas, Rhodopseudomonas, Nitrosomonas, and/or Nitrobacter.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: The sterile dry carriers are sawdust, rice bran, peat, wood chips, and/or ceramic balls.
EXAMPLE - In an example of the device, each container base is disposed horizontally, and is square, rectangular, circular, oval or polygonal. Each side extends upwardly from the base at an internal angle greater than 90 degrees, preferably 100 degrees. It has the same open structure as the base. It comprises a sheet without any openings of thermally-insulating material. The device also comprises lid (3) and housing which is capable of being dismantled and reassembled.
EXAMPLE - A multistage packed column was charged with cattle hair (1 kg), which was impregnated with Y medium (1 g/L yeast extract, 0.5 g/L monopotassium phsophate, 0.5 g/L dipotassium phosphate, 0.2 g/L magnesium phosphate, 5 g/L sodium chloride, pH 5.0, 4 L) and inoculated with a seed culture of Chrysosporium keratinophilum (FERM BP-7099). Humidified air was circulated through the column at 20-28 degrees C and waste air was discharged into dilute acid to neutralize ammonia. The degree of decomposition was 54% after 25 days and 61% after 28 days.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Method: The hydrophobic grains are circulated 5-10 times to the first phase. The sludge particles are attached to the surface of the hydrophobic grains by filtering water including the sludge, mixing the grains with the sludge, and extruding the mixture. The hydrophobize grains are circulated back to filtering and mixing steps. The grains attached or grown up in the circulation are split to smaller ones, and composted between the first and second phases. The composts are extruded to pieces in a continuously operating process in which the temperature of the pieces are raised rapidly to the thermophilic range. Substances affecting the properties of the grains are added to the sludge, the mixture of the sludge and hydrophobic grains, or the mixture of the sludge-coated grains and hydrophobic grains. They affect the nutrient content, solubility of nutrients, or pH.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Component: The grains taken off from the circulation are coated with lime, ash, nutrient solution, clay, gypsum, and/or silicon carbonate between cycles of circulation, thus forming a layer of the materials inside the grains. The material is a solution or a mass with nutrients.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Blowing Agent: The blowing agent includes at least one high volatility compound and at least one low permeability compound selected from isopentane and/or isobutane, at least one high volatility compound is selected from carbon dioxide, nitrogen, hydrofluorocarbons and/or ethane. At least one low permeability compound is selected from cyclopentane, isopentane, isobutane, 2,2-dimethylbutane and/or cyclohexane. The blowing agent comprises less than 60 wt.% of the low permeability compound preferably less than 50 wt.% The low permeability compound is classified as a volatile organic compound (VOC) by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). At least one high volatility VOC and at least one high VOC is not classified as a VOC by the EPA. The blowing agent comprises at least 10 wt.%, preferably at least 20 wt.% of the low volatility compound. The extrudate comprises 2 - 10 wt.%, preferably 3 - 8 wt.%, more preferably 4 - 6 wt.% of a blowing agent. The extrudate comprises 0.5 - 1.88 wt.%, preferably 1 - 3 wt.% of the low permeability compound. The extrudate comprises 0.25 - 5 wt.%, preferably 0.5 - 3 wt.% of the low volatility compound. The extrudate comprises 0.25 - 5 wt.%, preferably 0.5 - 3 wt.% of the high volatility compound. EXAMPLE - An inventive foam comprised (wt.%) isopentane 1.88 (4.2), acetone 1.88 (0), CO2 0.73 (0.50). The foam gave rate (lb/hour) of 146 (139), Part Density 3.13 (2.22), VOC blowing agent loss (wt.% in 28-30 days): 0.18% (1.22%). The values in parenthesis indicate the amounts used and the results obtained for a comparative example which included no acetone.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Composition: The composition further comprises carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus-containing compound, sulfur containing compound in a slow and sustained release formulation and is supplied with oxygen. SPECIFIC MICROORGANISMS - The microorganism is selected from Bacillus sp. OYK-01-600 (FERM BP-6394), Bacillus sp. OYK-03-600 (FERM BP-6395) and Bacillus sp. OYK-03-600 (FERM BP-6396) (claimed).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - FOOD - Preferred Process: The fermentation process is provided to the water-soluble portion of soy sauce lee by adding a spawn of marine deposit sludge and the beneficial substance are collected. EXAMPLE - Soy sauce lees (1% of drying solid substances) was suspended in an anaerobic fermentation liquid and added with marine deposit sludge. The liquid was placed in a culture container. The pH of the liquid was adjusted to 7.5-8.5 and cultivated at 30 degrees C. An anaerobic zymosis was added to the culture to produce methane and organic acids such as acetic and propionic acid.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Carrier: The carrier is formed from a biodegradable plastic derived from starch.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Process: Waste water containing selenic acid is treated by contacting Azoarucus.sp MA-23 (FERM BP-6549) in the presence of activated sludge.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOLOGY - Preferred Material: The microorganism raw materials is a mixture of 2 or more microorganism and/or their culture. SPECIFIC MICROORGANISMS - The microorganism is especially Penicillium sp No.3 (FERM P-17208), Aspergillus sp No.8 (FERM P-17205), Paecilomyces sp No.35 (FERM P-17207), Streptomyces sp AC 5400 (FERM P-17202), Streptomyces sp AC 5005 (FERM P-17203), Streptomyces sp AC 5431 (FERM P-17204) and/or Xanthomonas maltophilia N-(FERM P-17206) (claimed).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: The composition contains HFC-32 (1-50 wt.%) (preferably 1-9 wt.%), HFC-125 (30-50 wt.%), HFC-134a (30-5- wt.%) and hydrocarbon (1-4 wt.%).Preferred Conditions: If the hydrocarbon is n-butane, isobutane, n-butane and 2-methyl butane, n-butane and n-pentane, isobutane and 2-methyl butane or isobutane and n-pentane then the composition has a vapor pressure of 979-1348, 985-1351, 974-1342, 973-1341, 976-1345 or 975-1344 kPa respectively at 25 degreesC.After 50 wt.% of the composition has evaporated, the vapor pressure of the remaining composition has changed by 10% or less.Preferred Process: A refrigeration and heating process is obtained by condensing and evaporating the composition by cooling and heating the vicinity of the body respectively. EXAMPLE - A vessel was charged with 90 volume % of an initial composition containing HFC-32 (difluoromethane), HFC-125 (pentafluoroethane), HFC-134a (1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane), n-butane and 2-methylbutane or n-pentane at 25 degreesC. The initial liquid and vapor composition were measured by gas chromatography. The composition was allowed to leak from the vessel until 50 wt.% of its initial weight was reduced. The liquid and the vapor composition present in the vessel was measured again. The vessel was allowed to continue leaking until all the liquid was removed. The result showed that the composition has a non-inflammable even at initial and leaking condition of the content from the container.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Method: The mixture is monitored and controlled to maintain 1 vol. % hydrogen. The method further comprises monitoring the concentration of hydrogen in the mixture and adjusting the concentration to provide an adiabatic temperature rise of gas stream of 85 degrees C.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - Preferred Component: The catalyst is a noble metal or metal alloy.
EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the invention, the evaporator creates a heat exchange relationship between the coolant stream. A second compressor (48) increases the pressure of the steam exiting the compressor. The selective oxidizer includes at least two oxidizer stages (26, 28). The fuel cell power plant further comprises first and second heat exchangers (50, 52) and a reformer burner (106). The first heat exchanger creates a heat exchange relationship between the exhaust of the reformer burner and the steam. The second heat exchanger creates a heat exchange relationship between the exhaust of the reformer burner and the oxidant gas. The water transfer device is a condenser, contact condenser, a contact saturator, or an enthalpy wheel.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Apparatus: The fermenter has a concave portion and the heat conduction material and heater are fixed to the concave portion. The heat conduction material is stainless steel.Preferred Method: The fermenter is casted in a mold and shaped. The heat conduction material and heater are casted in such a way that the heating surface of the heat conduction material is exposed.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Process: The golf course waste material is the raw material for manufacturing methane. Hydrogen and/or methane are manufactured under anaerobic conditions. The waste material is processed in an air-tight container with or without adding water to the material and is maintained under dark or dawn conditions to manufacture hydrogen and methane from the subsequent solution at neutral pH. The formed hydrogen and/or methane are collected, an electricity generation is supplied and carried out to an electrical power generating device to supply an electric power for the golf course plant. EXAMPLE - Vent green of golf course was collected and grass for three holes were mixed with water (50 l) in a waste treatment reactor under anaerobic conditions (formed by argon gas) was maintained for 10 days. pH of the remaining liquid was adjusted to 7.5 and maintained for 50 more days at the same condition to form a methane containing of gas. The fine gas was removed by washing the gas with water. The absorption-removal of gas other than carbon dioxide was carried out to separate methane and hydrogen. The carbon dioxide was dissolved, and methane (1440 l) and hydrogen (4.5 l) of high purity were collected. The electricity generation of methane supplied and carried out to the fuel battery, and two batteries for one electromagnetic induction type golf (12 V and 5 times of rate capacitance was 50 Ah) were charged. The dried sand accumulated at the bottom part of a waste treatment reactor was collected and scattered to green. The liquid and the solid components remained were used as fertilizer for ornamental plant of flower bed.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Process: Hydrogen and methane is manufactured by sealing plants in a container with water and supplying the remaining liquid to photosynthetic bacteria by irradiating light. Hydrogen is manufactured under anaerobic conditions. A compound which inhibits plant oxygen formation is added to the container. The internal pressure of the container is increased to manufacture methane and hydrogen. EXAMPLE - Zoysia matrella (20 g) was collected and 1000 ml of water was added. A barometric pressure was applied and the container was sealed. 97 ml of H2 was formed at 69 hours in reaction system. The internal pressure was increased and hydrogen content was increased. 51 g of vent glasses was added with 10 l of water and sealed. Argon gas was passed to make anaerobic condition and kept under dark condition. 40 ml of hydrogen was formed at 10 days, the pH was adjusted to 7.1 by NaOH and maintained the same. After 77 days, 16000 ml of methane was formed.
ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Examples of the treatment agent: include high molecular alkane, a polyolefinic res
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Process: The oil recovered from the waste plastic is, preferably 60-80 wt.% . The chlorine compound in cracked gas is removed by a catalyst filled in thermolysis tower which contains iron oxide or iron hydroxide at void tower top.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Process: Polypropylene, polyethylene, polystyrene, fluorine or vinyl chloride resin is mixed with foam material, barium, zeolite aggregate, ion-exchange resin, copper-sodium chlorophylline, calcium carbonate, slaked lime, gypsum, carbon black, ferrous sulfate or water absorbing organic substance and molded to hollow polygonal cylindrical, hollow multiple cylindrical, porous spherical or any random shape to form decomposition material.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Apparatus: (R) is rotated by rotation shaft connected to gear wheel and driver gear wheel via a chain. Similarly, pulley and driver pulley are connected to the shaft via a belt. (R) has spiral stir blade with stir axis. A cleaning brush contacts outer surface of (R). The lower portion of (R) is installed with decomposition material take-off unit and upper portion is configured with an air feeder and exhaust port. The apparatus is further configured with a heat insulating material, air heating system and hot air supply apparatus.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Method: The synthetic resin material is separated from a slurry which comprises a sewage sludge. The resin is heated in a waste oil and powdered through a fine grinding process or a fine crushing process. The cake formed by adding the powdered resin material to the sludge is subjected to dry distillation process.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred sulfate-reducing microorganism: has capability to reduce sulfate and includes Desulfovibrio, Desulfuricans, for example. Example of the water having the sulfate-reducing microorganism: include sewage, sludge in a sewage-treatment plant, and drainage from various factories. Examples of the anthraquinone compound: include anthraquinone, anthrahydroquinone, their substitution products, or their hydrides.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Plant: The chambers are arranged in at least one row. The covering system comprises a cover that can be raised, folded or rolled back, or pushed aside, and where it can be lifted it can be moved to a height that allows filling of the chamber and optionally to a second position that permits mixing and aeration of the waste. Alternatively, the covers may be moved by wheels or rollers and preferably at least the first cover in the series is driven by a motor, or they are pushed by a hydraulic or pressure cylinder, preferably along tracks, and the covers for a series of chambers can be linked together so that movement of one cover will cause movement of the others. The series of chambers include, particularly at one end, an empty chamber that functions as a deviation space for the covers, temporary store for compostable material and/or for containing a mixing device. The plant may also include a filling system, particularly a main conveyor belt that delivers material to a secondary conveyor which can be moved along a bridge, positioned above the chambers and a mixer that can be moved between the chambers, through openings in the chamber walls. The covering system includes a channel for removing off gases from the chambers and for transporting them to a filter. The channel passes through the chamber wall but in a way that will not interfere with movement of the cover and at least partly prevents release of off gas when the cover is moved.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Process: The water and (A) are formed into a slurry using a cutting device and the slurry passes through a screen before disposal, while (B) are separated from the top of the container via a fat separator provided with a filter. The (B)-free slurry may be rotated to separate solid and liquid components before discharge. Preferred apparatus: This comprises a tank with, at the top, an inlet for water and a system for recovery of (B). At the base it has a comminuting device, positioned above the outlet. The water inlet and/or waste outlet has a closure device and a screen is placed above the outlet. The comminuting device is a system of blades, driven by an electric motor, and at the base of the container there may be a similarly driven rotatable conical section. Optionally between the outlet and container there is an intermediate tank from which the liquid part of the slurry may be recovered.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - The fuel cell provides electrical energy using an electrochemical reaction.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Arrangement: The opening of the filter is provided in a concave part (3). Nutriments for microorganisms are contained in the partition part which dissolution retards through the inner surface of the concave part. The nutriments are retarded from a fiber support which is formed by immersing the support in a liquid nutriment and drying or a liquid or a paste like nutriment coated on the support and dried.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOLOGY - Preferred Microorganism: The microorganism is Aspergillus fumigatus FERM P-17121, Aspergillus radiobacter FERM P-17123, a microorganism of Penicillium genus such as Penicillium janthinellum FERM P-17122 or a microorganism of Pseudomonas genus such as Pseudomonas putida FERM P-17124 or Pseudomonas CDC group 1 FERM P-17125.Preferred Method: The microorganism can grow in a medium which contains the reactive dye or a vat dye. The dyestuff is separated by destroying the isolated microorganism and adsorbing the dyestuff from the microorganism.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Arrangement: The organic refuse processing apparatus consists of direct exhaust tube (20), which evacuates the steam generated within the primary fermentation tank to the exterior. The secondary tank is provided with a steam introducing pipe (22) which is provided with an electro-magnetic selector valve (21). The electro-magnetic selector valve can be opened or closed by a controller (35). A viscometer is also provided in the tank (5). Based on the measurement result of the viscometer and the moisture meter, the controller controls the amount of water supplied to the secondary fermentation tank.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - AGRICULTURE - Preferred Method: By adding vegetable oil, the specific gravity of the fertilizer is increased and it dissolves readily in water. The fat content of the fertilizer is also increased.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Unit: The output gas was introduced in the catalyst at high temperature through an circulating pump of a reactor. The high temperature gas is passed through the center section of the heat exchanger. The condenser is equipped with a cooling system of inverted U tube. The apparatus has pressure indicator, gas analyzer, mixed gas supply unit and loop system so that the pressure in the circulation system is controlled to 0.1 MPas or less.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - The cyclic hydrocarbon is of formula (1) or formula (2):X, Y, Z1 = H, halo, hydroxyl, ester, phenyl, or substituted phenyl.Preferred components: The transition metal ion is a copper ion. The organic metal complex: isophthalic acid copper.Preparation: The production of the gas adsorbing material comprises:(1) dissolving the cyclic hydrocarbon in a mixed solvent of a lower alcohol (preferably methanol) and an organic acid;(2) adding a transition metal salt to the cyclic hydrocarbon;(3) reacting the cyclic hydrocarbon with the transition metal salt at 50-100 degreesC; and(4) recovering the resulting precipitate.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Arrangements: The apparatus consists of a baffle plate (15) which seals the fin and tank (12,13), and a deformation permissible part which is provided in the contact part of baffle plate and heat exchanger. Each element of apparatus is brazed using aluminum board. The tank and baffle plate are integrally made of extrusion material. The upperstream side of purification part of catalyst apparatus is provided with oxygen feed zone (frame) along hydrogen rich gas flow direction. The oxygen feed zone is connected to the oxygen supply pipe which has a pair of manifold. The purification part and oxygen feed zone are divided into several portions. Each divided portion of oxygen feed zone and purification part are serially connected along the flow direction of hydrogen rich gas. The catalyst of the divided purification part differs mutually. The coolant flow path between the divided purification parts are connected by a flexible pipe. The apparatus uses a mixed liquor of water and methanol as coolant.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Compounds: The low boiling aliphatic hydrocarbon has a boiling point of -20-70degreesC. SPECIFIC COMPOUNDS - 1-2C iodocarbon is chosen from iodomethane, fluoro iodomethane, difluoro iodomethane, trifluoro iodomethane and tetra and penta fluoro iodomethanes. The aliphatic hydrocarbon is selected from propane, propylene, butane, butene, isobutane, 2-methyl butane, 2,2-dimethyl butane, 2,3-dimethyl butane, n-pentane, cyclopentane and 2-methyl pentane.    EXAMPLE - (In weight parts) Talc (0.5) having mean particle diameter of 6 mum was mixed with styrene resin (100). Foaming agent comprising trifluoro iodomethane (CF3I) (3.5) and butane (7.1), was added under pressure to the resin mixture. The foaming agent-resin mixture was extruded under atmospheric pressure from a slit having diameter of 1.8 mm and molded to form tabular polystyrene foam having thickness of 50 mm. The density, mean diameter and heat conductivity (after 7 hours and 100 hours) of the obtained foam tablet were found to be 0.035 g/cm3, 0.4 mm and 0.0223 Kcal/m.hourdegreesC and 0.0240 Kcal/m.hourdegreesC, respectively. The foam had surface exterior and was found to maintain adiabatic property for a long period of time.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOTECHNOLOGY - Preferred Method: The generator is a concrete tank, possibly 8 m in diameter and 13 m high. The generator is closed by a dome that acts as a gas storage vessel with an internal pressure sufficient to distribute the gas to its point of usage. The generator is lined with plastic sheeting both to make the vessel airtight and corrosion resistant. Fluid in the generator is circulated through a heat exchanger to maintain optimum reaction conditions. Extra fluid is also added from time to time to maintain a given liquid level. Changes in level due to increased gas pressure must also be compensated. The dome is preferably constructed of fiberglass reinforced plastic material and is dimensioned so that its lower edges dip well below the liquid level. In addition it is securely connected to the sides of the generator. EXAMPLE - None given.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - AGRICULTURE - Preferred Component: The fermentation promotion material further comprises a fermentation auxiliary containing a heat resistant microbe which utilizes wheat and/or wheat bran by adjusting the pH to 6-8.5. The amount of wheat powder and/or wheat bran present in the composition is 60 weight% of the total weight of fermentation auxiliary. The heat resistant microbe will survive at 55 degreesC after processing during 10 minutes at 80 degreesC. 1 g of fermentation auxiliaries contains 105 or more of CFU of microbes. The fermentation auxiliary further comprises 2.5 weight% of humic acid or its derivative. The amount of wheat bran and/or wheat powder in the fermentation promotion material are 1:0.1-1:60 weight ratio. The amount of fermentation growth promotion is 100 weight parts to 3.5-90 weight parts of plant generation material.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Concentration: The impurities concentration in the sealant is less than 1%. The concentration of chlorine, sulfur and phosphorus in the sealant is 300 ppm or less.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Method: 100-1000 weight part of sake alcoholic drink lees, preferably spirit lees is mixed with 100 weight part of porous charcoal particles and hardening the kneaded material is carried out at 60-150 degreesC.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOTECHNOLOGY - Preferred Microorganisms: The algae are e.g. one or more algae selected from blue-green algae such as Ocillatoria, diatoms such as Navicula and green algae such as Ulothrix. The Mn-oxidizing bacteria are preferably selected from Cedecea bacterium GSJ/MITA24A/ASHO-RO/1, the strain Aeromonas bacterium GSJ/MITA24B/ASHO-RO/2 and the strain Shewanella bacterium GSJ/MITA24C/ASHO-RO/3. SPECIFIC MICROORGANISMS - The Mn-oxidizing bacteria are preferably selected from Cedecea bacterium GSJ/MITA24A/ASHO-RO/1, the strain Aeromonas baterium GSJ/MITA24B/ASHO-RO/2 and the strain Shewanella bacterium GSJ/MITA24C/ASHO-RO/3.    EXAMPLE - No suitable example is given.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Composition: The coating is applied at a rate of 1-15 (1-10) g/m2. The product (I) is extruded or injection molded to form molded articles or preferably a film, (especially an optionally stretched, pretreated, multi-layer blown or sheet film). (I) is at least partially coated, preferably by printing or painting. The ester (A) is a cellulose acetate, cellulose acetobutyrate or propionate or preferably cellulose nitrate. The coating composition comprises upto 30 (25) wt.% or an organic solvent and optionally conventional paint resins. The biodegradable polymer is an aliphatic- or partially aromatic polyester having an aromatic acid content of no greater than 60 wt.% (total acid), or is a polyester derivative in the form of a polyester urethane having an ester content of at least 75 wt.% or polyester carbonate having an ester content of at 70 wt.% and/or a polyester amide having an ester content of at least 20 wt.% and/or copolymers of these monomers. The biodegradable polymer is preferably a polyester amide and is mixed with a polycaprolactone or polylactide or a blend of thermoplastic starch and polycaprolactone. EXAMPLE - A blown polyester amide film (40 microns thick) was printed and coated on one side with a composition comprising 6.6 pts.wt. cellulose nitrate (plasticised with 18 % epoxidized soya bean oil), 53.7 pts.wt. ethyl acetate and 39.7 pts.wt. ethanol and dried. The film was then used to produce bags having the coated surface on the inside, which were filled with fresh organic household waste and stored at an external temperature of 13 degrees C. After 12 days the bags had degraded to an extent that holes of greater than 2 cm diameter had formed. In comparison bags prepared from uncoated polyester amide had a lifetime of 5 days.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - This fuel cell system contains polymer electrolyte fuel cells.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Amount: The amount of platinum supported on the metal oxide carrier is 0.1-10 wt.%. The carrier may also support rhenium as the other metal, particularly in an amount of 0.1-10 wt.%.Preferred Compound: In addition to platinum and rhenium, at least 1 other metal can be applied as well which is chosen from yttrium, calcium, chromium, samarium, cerium, tungsten, niobium, praseodymium, magnesium, molybdenum and lanthanum, in an amount of 0.1-10 wt.%. After supporting the platinum and optionally other metals on the metal oxide carrier, hot-water treatment is performed. SPECIFIC MATERIALS - The metal oxide carrier is zirconia, alumina, titania, silica, silica-magnesia, zeolite, magnesia, niobium oxide, zinc oxide and chromium oxide.    EXAMPLE - Zirconium hydroxide n hydrate (ZrO2.nH2O) was sintered in a stream of 60 l/min air while raising temperature to 500 degrees C over 1 hr. with maintenance at the temperature for a further 1 hr. to give a zirconium oxide carrier for adding aqueous platinum chloride hexahydrate and some water while evaporation over 1 hr. The resulting product was heated at 100 degrees    C for not less than 15 hrs. before pulverization and sintering in an air stream as above. The power was prepared into pellets to support 0.5, 1, 3, 5 and 8 wt.% platinum for use as catalysts in removing carbon monoxide in water gas shift reaction.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Arrangement: The mixer comprises a pair of auger screw shafts arranged in parallel which are operated symmetrically. Preferred Material: The inclined surface of the injection part is made of water and an air permeable material.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Method: The pulse discharge is performed by injecting a gas such as hydrogen peroxide or a photocatalytic microparticle, into the treated water.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Apparatus: The process tank is provided with a membrane separation unit. The counter electrode faces the surrounding wall of the process tank, at the side of concentrated water of the membrane separation unit. The process tank is ellipse-shaped and the counter electrode faces one focus of the ellipse. A process pipe is arranged at another focus such that treated water flows through, without filling the tank.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Apparatus: The bioreactor in the purifier has an internal diameter of 10mm or less. The linear velocity of the gas moving inside the reactor is more than 10m/minute. The volume ratio of the microbial culture solution (21) in the reactor is 10% or less than the capacity of the reactor. The gaseous phase containing the pollutant is made to flow near the boundary surface of the liquid phase containing the microbial culture solution in an airtight tank. The gaseous phase is discharge through a discharge pipe (18) by applying an inflow pressure. The filler in the bioreactor is a porous object and the pollutant is trichloroethylene.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Process: The decomposition of organic or inorganic substance using a microorganism by culturing in a medium. The medium is added with soil or activated sludge and a specific carrier having volatile organic compound or inorganic substance as a main carbon source. The carrier after completion of culture is collected and allowed to increase selectively. The method is repeated for several times. SPECIFIC COMPOUNDS - The microorganism is Acinetobacter genospecies 10 Tol-5 of a strain FERM P-17188 or Rhodococcus erythropolis Tol-3 FERM P-17187.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Method: The compost raw material used in the method is processed as a drop, extrusion or a roll.Preferred Apparatus: The compost manufacturing apparatus contains a dehydration tank (3) which removes the excess water component in the raw material from the fermentation tank. The fermentation tank is supplied with air from an air supply unit and has a catchment mechanism of a leachate at the base of the tank.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Method: The manufacture of feed fertilizer involves stirring livestock excrement along with the mixture of soy sauce lees and rice bran which is subsequently processed.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Support: The support used in the purification tank is polypropylene resin with a rough surface.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Method: The porous material mixed with organic waste is 1-10% of the organic waste to be converted. Water is added to the waste mixture to maintain a 60-70% moisture level. The mixture is agitated with heat in an aerobic condition and an odor produced during fermentation is sucked into a deodorizer before emitting to the atmosphere.The mixing digester comprises(a) a mixing apparatus (A) with multiple blenders driven by a motor, preferably within a rotary tank and rotors;(b) a heat source is stored below (A);(c) a receiving hole on the topside cover of the mixing apparatus;(d) a discharge hole and door are provided at a corner of the bottom;(e) an air pump to suck a hot fume through a pipe, supplying air for aerobic fermentation, recovering and recycling heat and maintaining the temperature within the mixing apparatus between 45-1000degreesC,(preferably 45-100degreesC); and(f) a deodorizer connected to an outside wall, odors are treated before emitting to atmosphere. EXAMPLE - No suitable example is given.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Fuel Cell: The fuel cell is a proton exchange membrane or solid polymer electrolyte fuel cell, phosphoric acid fuel cell, alkaline fuel cell, solid oxide fuel cell or molten carbonate fuel cell.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Apparatus: The power plant comprises a burner (260) for exhausting and burning excess hydrogen evolved from autothermal reformer (ATR). A fuel supply unit (1) responsive to the burner, supplies hydrocarbon fuel to ATR. A steam producing unit (33) is connected to air supply unit (4) which supplies mixture of air and steam to ATR. A first heat exchanger is provided between the burner and steam producing unit. A second heat exchanger comprises units for increasing and decreasing temperature of the mixture of hydrogen and carrier gas circulated from fuel cell anode section to reformer anode supply region (first path) and vice versa (second path), respectively. A third heat exchanger is provided between the burner and the first path, and a fourth heat exchanger is provided between the burner and air supply unit. A fifth heat exchanger is provided between the second path and a point outside the power plant. A control unit responsive to the burner, which controls the fuel supply unit, is provided in the power plant.
EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT, the processes for measuring CO and CO2 over the decoke range include a multi-component spectrometer and gas chromatography using a thermal conductivity detector. A multi-component infrared spectrometer can be configured to analyze two different wavelengths for the carbon dioxide absorbance. Using the difference in absorbance at these two wavelengths the dynamic range of the analyzer is extended to allow accurate analysis over the concentration range 200 ppm to 20 volume percent with a continuous update. Typical applications monitoring a single wavelength limit the linear dynamic additional wavelength available the carbon monoxide absorbance can also be monitored and the ratio of carbon dioxide absorbance to carbon monoxide absorbance can be used as a diagnostic of combustion efficiency. A gas chromotograph with a detector that has a linear dynamic range of at least three orders of magnitude is configured with a column containing a stationary phase t hat resolves carbon monoxide or carbon dioxide from the balance of the decoke matrix. Typical cycle times are on the order of 15-45 seconds, suitable for feedback control of the decoke operation. Depending on the choice of stationary phase, it is possible to also obtain concentration information on other diagnostically significant components, such as hydrogen, methane, and ethane.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Properties: The hard material has a negative surface potential.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: Degradation promotion material contains 50-85 wt.% of silicon dioxide and 50-15 wt.% of magnesium oxide, aluminum oxide and sodium oxide.Preferred Apparatus: The processing container in the biodegradable waste treatment equipment is alterable. The lower portion of the processing container has a semi-circular shape. The processing container is altered by turning it laterally, such that the semi-circle portion is on the top and the opening is at the bottom. The sieve is formed by arranging many wires in parallel such that it does not allow degradation promotion material to pass through. The sieve is inclined between the processing container and residue container. The residue container is placed below the sieve. The sieve is optionally connected to a vibrator. A heater is arranged for heating waste material in the processing container.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Method: The method involves heating the organic substance at normal pressure and adding water or aqueous solution and a pH regulator to the organic substance. The organic substance undergoes primary fermentation and can be easily disassembled. The remaining substance which is less than half of the substance that has undergone primary fermentation is compressed and secondary fermentation takes place.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Apparatus: The concentration of carbon monoxide in the gas is reduced by CO transformer (5) after which the gas is supplied to the fuel battery
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOLOGY - Preferred Sugar Liquid: The natural sugar liquid is concentration liquid or brown sugar liquid of sugar millet.Preferred Fungi: The fungi is lactic acid bacteria.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Additive: A substance containing transition element or trace of transition element is added during fermentation.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Method: The pH of the breeding liquid to which the pH regulator containing alkali chemicals and an organic compound containing organo sulfur compound is added, is 6-8. EXAMPLE - No relevant example is given.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Gas: The transformation gas is a halogenated hydrocarbon or carbon dioxide. The hydrocarbon removes methane and a part of hydrogen from main gaseous fuel.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Catalyst: Palladium group catalyst is provided in the upstream side of the modifier and rhodium group catalyst is provided in the downstream side. The catalyst shows high activity to the combustion of modified raw material. Preferred Method: At the time of initiation, only air is supplied to the modification catalyst, followed by supply of water vapor and modified raw material, when the temperature of catalyst is beyond a predetermined value, after oxidation. The rise in temperature is caused by the heat generated by oxidizing Pd and Rh catalysts. The catalyst is heated by an electric heater at the time of initiation. The supply of raw material is based on the temperature of the modification catalyst. The exhaust gas from the hydrogen pole of fuel battery (18), is sealed and is circulated, followed by sealing the modified raw material.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - The waste is preferably agitated during steam exposure, at a temperature of 510-900degreesC. The carbonized waste is then exposed to a low-temperature steam, particularly at 100-120degreesC, before removing in the atmosphere. After carbonization, water in the cooled gas which contains water and oil is recovered and returned to the boiler for use as starting material in generating the high-temperature steam. The used high-temperature steam is generated from a heating furnace and supplied with deodorization at not less than 800degreesC. When the organic waste with high moisture content is exposed to the high-temperature steam, such moisture is evaporated then carbonization starts. Organic sludge or/and human and animal feces are similarly carbonized. EXAMPLE - Waste was treated by using the method as specified.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Method: The wet organic waste is prepared, treated and processed by accepting the wet organic waste from the transportation and preparation subsystem. Fluid is added to form a mixture and the size is reduced. The mixture is filtered and mixed with additional fluid containing supplements. The above mixture is treated by chemical or biological means and aerobic or anaerobic methods. The organic solids are settled leaving a fluid for reuse and storage or disposal and solids are removed and conditioned before usage in landfill application. The wet organic waste is initially prepared using a feeder section, size is reduced and fluid is added to form a mixture. Biological and chemical supplements are added for mass reduction, grease and oil from the mixture are skimmed using an adjustable skimmer section and removed using a grease trap section. The processed mixture is stored for transportation. The subsystem for processing dry waste comprises combining dry waste in transportation container, producing botanical waste using a section and separating the dry waste by adjustable multiple subsections and processing. The dry waste is accepted from the subsystem and separating the combined dry waste such as aggregate waste, plastic waste, metal waste, glass, white goods for reuse. The elastic waste such as tires are separated by elastic waste separation and processing subsystem. The botanical waste such as yard, wood waste are separated by botanical waste separation and processing subsystem. The elastic and botanical waste are decontaminated and stored for reuse.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Arrangement: I and II are vertically arranged with I arranged in the upper part of II. I is filled with a ferment microbe of a mesophile or a thermophilic bacteria and II is filled with mesophile. The microorganisms filled in I and II differ to each other. An exhaust outlet with a door is between I and II. The fermentation is performed by conveying an organic substance from I to II through an opening in the door. A water component adjusting unit controls uniformly the organic waste water component in I. Two temperature control units each in I and II controls inside to an optimal temperature. Another treatment tank is arranged vertically between I and II with a temperature control unit to control temperature approximately same as II.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Method: The residue which is decomposed in the reaction area (II), is made to react with an alkali catalyst to obtain the gas which essentially consists of hydrogen. The water insoluble oil which essentially consists of hydrogen and water are separated using a separator (17). The separated water insoluble oil is reacted in a hydrogenation reactor (20) at 10-30 MPa and 400-500degreesC, in the presence of a catalyst, to obtain a light oil. Solvent extraction is performed to extract the water-soluble oil from water, using an extractor (22). The temperature rise booster of water which removed the soluble oil at 500-900degreesC and 25-40 MPa, is used for the reaction in the reaction area (II).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - AGRICULTURE - Preferred Method: The building is preferably a greenhouse. The waste is biomass from the greenhouse, the treated waste is used as compost and the biogas is used to heat the greenhouse. The building is over the cell. The apparatus comprises a number of cells. The roofs of the cells form the foundation of the building. The building has areas for receiving waste from the cells. There is additional processing equipment. Waste conveying means also causes gas flow from the cells and fresh air flow into the cells. Gas is vented to outside the building. The cell is below ground and there is an opening at ground level in the wall and a ramp extends from the opening to the floor. The roof is concrete. The process can be observed visually through windows. Two passageways, one above the other run between the wall of a greenhouse and the walls of the cells. Gas is ducted from cells, leachate is piped to cells. The base of the passageway forms a channel collecting leachate. The leachate is heated to 50 - 60 degrees Celsius, preferably 55 degrees Celsius, before returning to cells. At any time in the processing cycle, biogas is being produced in more than half the cells. Cells are loaded and unloaded in sequence, when one cell is being emptied, the preceding cell is being filled. The treated waste is used as compost. The waste is biomass from the greenhouse. Carbon dioxide from the process is fed into the greenhouse. EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT rainwater is collected and stored. The waste is municipal solid waste, delivered to the site. Sewage sludge is added to hasten reactions. The fermentation period is up to three years. The rate of the process is controlled by adding water or leachate and by adjusting temperature. The waste is optionally shredded.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Method: The nitrifying microorganisms are bacteria of the genus Nitrosomonas, Nitrosospira, Nitrosovibrio, Nitrobacter and/or Nitrospira. Nitrogen dioxide is added in an amount of 1-500 ppm by volume. Spent medium is continuously removed by tangential filtration and replaced with fresh medium. EXAMPLE - A medium comprising 50 ml/l of a stock solution (0.98 g/l magnesium sulfate, 1.08 g/l potassium dihydrogen phosphate, 1.48 g/l potassium chloride, 2.94 g/l calcium chloride, 11.68 g/l sodium chloride), 1 ml/l trace element solution, 0.535 gl ammonium chloride and 19.8 g/l Hepes buffer was inoculated with Nitrosomonas eutropha (10 to the power 7 cells/ml) and aerated in the presence of 25 ppm nitrogen dioxide for 14 days. The final cell count was 2 x 10 to the power 9 (compared with 10 to the power 8 without nitrogen dioxide addition).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - AGRICULTURE - Preferred Apparatus: (I) preferably includes a means for suspension either by ropes or cords or preferably a tripod which suspends the flexible body above the ground. The body is dome-shaped or hemispherical and is preferably collapsible. The inlet is formed by a reinforced circular edge to the body which is covered by a removable fabric mesh cover which is air-permeable. The outlet is closed by a drawstring.Preferred Method: Organic waste matter is introduced into the apparatus (I) and maintained for 12-16 weeks under ambient conditions. The converted nutrient material is collected from the outlet. Worms are preferably introduced with the organic waste and the product is worm casting. EXAMPLE - None given.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - The metal hydrides stored in the fuel tank consists of LiH, LiAlH4, NaBH4, FeTiH2, LaNi5H6.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - The liquid organic hydrides in the tank consists of decalin, methylcyclohexane.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: The solvent comprises (substituted) hydrocarbon gas (preferably dimethyl ether; (iso)butane; pentafluoroethane; 1,1-difluoroethane; 1,1,1,2- or 1,1,2,2- tetrafluoroethane; 1,1,1-trifluoroethane; 2-chloro-1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane; 1-chloro-1,1-difluoroethane; 1,1,2 trifluoroethane; 1,1-dichloro-1-fluoroethane; chlorodifluoromethane; trichloroethylene, perchloroethylene, trichloroethane or chloroethane).Preferred Composition: The oil following the collection of the volatile compounds, contains less than 1 wt.% flammable, volatile components.Preferred Condition: The solvent is at standard temperature and pressure.Preferred Property: The oil following the collection of the volatile compounds, has a flash point of above 142degreesF.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CERAMICS AND GLASS - Preferred Component: The tank used in removing the volatile components from the oil comprises a high surface area fiberglass. EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the method, the sorbent material is contained within a non-conducting basket (182) having electrodes (184) in the vessel. Radiation is applied until the vessel contains at most 1 wt.% solvent.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOTECHNOLOGY - Preparation: CYKS1 Was identified by screening microorganisms collected from dye factory waste water for ability to desulfurize dibenzothiophene and selecting the strain with the highest activity. EXAMPLE - No suitable example given.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Catalyst: The alkali metal is potassium, cesium, rubidium, sodium or lithium. The alkaline earth metal is barium, calcium, magnesium or strontium. Preferred Carrier Composition: The fire-proof inorganic oxide carrier is alumina, titania, silica or zirconia. The weight ratio of titania and alumina is 0.1/99.9-90/10. Preferred Method: The hydrogen containing gas is obtained by modification reaction or partial oxidation of raw material.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Components: The modifier and modification reaction component contains niobium (Nb) (0.1-3) and/or molybdenum (Mo) (0.1-5) or copper (Cu) (0.1-5).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Arrangement: The apparatus has a spiral protrusion (14) which guides heat carrier provided to the outer surface of the container. A partition wall (13) carrying out partition of inside of outer container to outer container and container side, is provided in the outer container. A stirring apparatus (20) of heat carrier is provided in the outer container. The apparatus is arranged in such a way that the heat carrier carries out nearly orthogonal crossing of inlet of outer container and contacts it for the container. The outer container is filled up with a heat transfer promoter. A rod-shaped heater winding beam is provided to the outer surface of the container. A circulation duct (17) of heat carrier is provided between outlet and inlet of outer container. A cooling system (22) which cools inside of the container is provided to the upper part of the outer container.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred method: Water derived from the aqueous phase in the vessel is supercooled and sprayed into the gaseous phase.Preferred device: A water circulating device is used to recover water from the aqueous phase in the hydrate producing vessel, the water then being passed through a heat exchanger for supercooling and then to a spray nozzle (9), preferably an ultrasonically vibrated spray nozzle.
EXAMPLE - Biogas from an anaerobic digester, comprising (vol.%) methane (79.8), nitrogen (15.3), carbon dioxide (4.5), oxygen (0.1) and ethylene (0.3), was contacted with Molsievon 3K Type M-183 (RTM) carbon. The product gas comprised (vol.%) methane (98.2), nitrogen (1.3), carbon dioxide (0.2), oxygen (0) and ethylene (0.3).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Magnetizable Particle Binder: The magnetizable particle binder preferably comprises magnetizable particles entrapped in a matrix or solid phase adsorbent particles entrapped in a magnetizable polymer. Preferred binders comprise either iron oxide as the magnetizable particle entrapped in a matrix selected from glass, latex, agarose, nylon, polystyrene, polyacrylamide, polyacrolein, cellulose or copolymers thereof or adsorbent particles selected from talc, glass wool, Fuller's earth, charcoal or activated charcoal entrapped in a magnetizable polymer selected from magnetizable polyacrylamide gel, magnetizable polyacrolein gel or magnetizable cellulose. Organic molecule to be removed may be either a single organic molecule or more than one organic molecule examples of molecules to be removed include MTBE (methyl tertiary butyl ether) and viral or bacterial agents. EXAMPLE - To remove MTBE from a liquid solution, to an aqueous solution of 1.14 mM in a 15 ml screw cap test tube was added 5 mg of magnetizable charcoal polyacrylamide particles. This was mixed well for 2 minutes and the magnetizable particles sedimented using a magnetic field. Greater than 99% of MTBE was adsorbed by the magnetizable charcoal polyacrylamide particles.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Mixture: The plant residue originates from palm fruit, avocado or especially olives. The mixture also conveniently contains a natural and/or modified polysaccharide, especially cellulose, starch, a cellulose ether, preferably carboxymethylcellulose, ethylcellulose, ethylhydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose or carboxymethylhydroxyethylcellulose and/or an oxidized anionic starch or anionic starch ether.Production: The mixture is produced by treating the plant residue and optionally water with the polymerisate(s). Suitably, the polymerisate is added during comminution of the plant residue or before, during and/or preferably after separation of the oil. The polymerisate is used in an amount of 0.1-10% by weight (wt.%), especially 0.2-5 wt.%, particularly 0.25-2.5 wt.%, based on the plant residue and optionally water. Also, it is used in the form of a powder having a particle size distribution of 10-10,000 micrometers, especially 10-5,000 micrometers, particularly 10-3,500 micrometers, and/or a water-in-oil dispersion.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Polymerisate: The polymerisate is synthesis ed from:(1) 55-99.5 wt.% ethylenically unsaturated polymerizable monomer(s) containing acid groups (present to at least 25 mol% as a salt);(2) 0.01-5 wt.% cross-linking agent; and optionally(3) up to 40 wt.% of a further ethylenically unsaturated monomer which is copolymerisable with a);(4) up to 30 wt.% water-soluble polymers. EXAMPLE - Stockosorb 410 (polymerisate) (10 g) was stirred into a fresh plant residue (200 g) which resulted after separation of the oil phase in the 2-phase process for the production of olive oil. The mixture formed a friable solid after 2 minutes.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - AGRICULTURE - Preferred Method: The utilization amount of soil process microbe S5 is 10 kg per soil area 200 meters squared. The use amount of process microbe S6 for paddy fields is scattered over 1500 meters squared at the ratio of 5 kg per 100 kg particulate organic substance fertilizer. A biobase is manufactured by mixing rice bran with fowl droppings fermented by Actinomyces and rice bran, mixing with material in which fish meat is fermented with waste fresh meat process microbe, and this material is used as a base material for planter cultivation for home horticulture. After dispersing bio-base green which is a nutrition agent for microorganisms used in insect pest microbe process of grass soil, greenkeeper S5 is dispersed after adding a water component. The dispersion of bio-base green and greenkeeper S5 is 15 kg per 200-300 meters squared grass. Soil process microbe S5, process microbe S6 for paddy fields, bio-base, bio-base green and greenkeeper S5 use Micromonospora genus which is resistant to mutation by high temperature resistant mutation operation and chemical resistant mutation operation. The high temperature resistant mutation operation of Micromonospora is at least 30 minutes at 100 degrees Celsius or more. The chemical resistant mutation operation is at least 30 minutes in fixed concentration phenolic microbicide such as cresol 1% aqueous solution.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Process: Lower portion of high temperature part is insulated by a heat insulation layer (I). The side and upper portions of high temperature part is surrounded by the heat insulation layer (II).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Components: The porous substance of hydrocarbon gas adsorption agent has a metal atom preferably copper or nickel in the pores of the mesoporous substance and the organic and/or functional groups on pore surface contains a thiol group. The silica group mesoporous substance has a silicate structure and by heat processing at 50-200degreesC in water, the porous substance is prepared.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Species: The Phanerochaete chrysosporium is ATCC-34541.Preferred Components: The malt extract is the second carbon source is 0.1 - 5 % of the malt extract, preferably of the animal protein, preferably an inorganic containing salt.The soil in step (b) contains upto 5 wt.% malt extract as the second carbon source and more than 56 mM glucose as the third carbon source.The first carbon source is a simple sugar and first nitrogen source is an ammonium ion. EXAMPLE - Degradation of relatively high concentrations of Aroclors (TM) 1242, 1254 and 1260 by P. chrysosporium under varied culture conditions was performed using congener-specific gas chromatographic analysis.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Catalyst: The high activity catalyst is platinum and low activity catalyst is ruthenium. Preferred Apparatus: CO transformer comprises an oxygen sensor for detecting the concentration of oxygen in the gas sent out from transfer line and control part for controlling transformation reaction of CO transformation part A based on the oxygen concentration detected in the oxygen sensor. Oxygen is supplied to CO transformation part A with modified hydrogen from modified hydrogen introduction line. Amount of oxygen supplied to CO transformation part B is detected based on the temperature of that part. The CO transformer further comprises an oxygen consumption regulation unit for adjusting the oxygen contained in CO transformation part A and part of oxygen is supplied to CO transformation part B from modified hydrogen introduction line. The hydrogen generator comprises an outlet for blowing off a part of air to CO transformation part A or B.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Modifier: Alternately, a distributed hole catalyst sheet having corrugated fins on both sides is arranged between combustion catalyst sheets. Each combustion catalyst sheet has porous thin film containing platinum. A flat plate for supplying combustion air and combustion off gas flat plate are configured below and above the distributed hole catalyst sheet. A heat recovery flat plate is configured to exhaust the heat generated due to catalytic combustion. Alternately, a corrugated fin is arranged between carbon monoxide oxidation catalyst sheets containing platinum and ruthenium. The CO oxidation part is divided into two partitions by a heat insulation flat plate which has projection. Many modifying parts are laminated such that modifying catalyst sheet and corrugated fin are alternately arranged. Preferred Constructor: The constructor for performing modification, combustion, CO oxidation and vaporization are laminated. A soft polytetrafluoro ethylene sheet or expanded graphite sheet is placed between each constructor. A gas seal sheet is formed so that the reaction is not impaired.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOLOGY - Preferred Process: The passage of air into the sludge, facilitated by the tubes, replenishes the oxygen supply required for composting to be completed. The tubes are made of natural or synthetic material which have long, hollow cylinders with open ends. The walls of the tubes may be curved, tapered or parallel and may be solid, perforated or porous. The tubes dimensions are 20-100 mm in length and 5-20 mm in outer diameter. They are mixed with the sludge at 5-50 vol.%. The size of the tubes and the volume added to the sludge are chosen according to the characteristics of the sludge to be composted. EXAMPLE - None given.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred System: The steam reformer includes an oxidizing section in which carbon monoxide is converted to carbon dioxide with pressurized oxidizing gas supplied from the second compressor by way of a flow control system, especially comprising a three-way valve or two flow-controlling valves. The system can also include a third compressor for supplying pressurized oxidizing gas to the reforming section of the steam reformer. The system can also include a device for measuring the pressure difference between the fuel gas and oxidizing gas supplied to the fuel cell.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - The heating chamber is provided with a means to produce an oxygen-free atmosphere, and the light emitting heating bodies are also installed at a state without oxygen. Such heating chamber can be provided with a pressure-reducing means for similar operation under vacuum. The light emitting heating body is made from charcoal, graphite or/and carbonaceous composite material, which is particularly spherical with impenetrability. A pressing device is also installed in the heating chamber to force the waste to contact with the light emitting heating bodies, together with an active carbon or/and charcoal filter for the cleaning the decomposition gas, a pressure gauge, and a pressure-adjusting means. The light emitting heating bodies are in contact with at least a part of the inner chamber wall, and in between a carbonaceous material is placed. The contacting part of the inner wall is made from an amorphous substance chosen from 1 or more of boron nitride, niobium, silicon carbide, boron carbide, magnesium oxide, hafnium oxide, hafnium dioxide, and beryllium aluminum oxide. At least a part of the electrode is of rod or angular shape. The waste is introduced into the heating chamber in a liquid form through the piping. A detoxification chamber is provided as well to make the decomposition gas harmless which comprises a heating chamber and the devices applicable in the heating chamber of thermal decomposer. EXAMPLE - The light emitting heating bodies were prepared e.g. from a phenol resin and synthetic and natural fibers. A thermal decomposer thus equipped was used to decompose waste according to the specified conditions.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Materials: The oxidative coupling catalyst is calcium- and lithium-promoted barium oxide, calcium-and lithium-supported lanthanum oxide, or calcium-and lithium-promoted magnesium oxide. The methanation catalyst is zirconium-supported ruthenium, rhodium, or nickel, or aluminum-supported rhodium, nickel, or nickel-tungsten.Preferred Adsorbent: The adsorbent is a mixture of:(a) lanthanum oxide and alkali metal hydroxide of oxide; and(b) alkali and alkaline earth exchanged zeolite X and zeolite Y.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Conditions: The oxidative coupling conditions are at 400-1,200degreesC and 14-400 psig. The stream containing methane, ethane, and ethylene is separated into a stream containing methane and a stream containing methane to the oxidative coupling reactor. The methanation reactor is operated at 50-500degreesC and 14-500 psig, in a fixed bed, swing bed, moving bed, or simulated moving bed mode.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOTECHNOLOGY - Preferred method: (A) Comprises a polychlorinated biphenyl. Screening comprises monitoring pH levels or breakdown product levels. The combination of populations of microorganisms referred to in step (i) is achieved through addition in graded ratios. The accumulating intermediates comprise chlorobenzoates, chlorocatechols, gentisate and protocatchuate. EXAMPLE - No relevant example given.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOLOGY - Preferred Device: The flow water head of the filtration water-purifying flow part is larger than the maximum filtering head of the organism contact filtration part. The oxidation treatment air supply installation has pond circulation piping piped so that it might circulate through all domains between the filter mediums and the catchment means, multiple block circulation piping piped so that it might circulate through the division region which has a predetermined space for this pond circulation piping, was respectively connected to it, and divided the whole domain, and an oxidation air-injection machine which includes multiple oxidation air nozzles which have a predetermined space for the block circulation piping, is respectively connected to it, and injects oxidation air. The multiple oxidation air nozzles include at least one waste-water and oxidation air nozzle which has a waste-water function which can emit the water which collected on the block circulation pipe interior using pressure at the time of injection of oxidation air. The waste-water and oxidation air nozzle has a nozzle body screwed together by the block circulation piping side, a nozzle orifice which penetrates this nozzle body and injects oxidation air, and an exhaust tube which it is integrally extended by the nozzle body and is positioned near the internal base of the block circulation piping.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - AGRICULTURE - Preferred Composition: The organic substance added to the manure is preferably, bean curd lees, beer dregs, spirit dregs, sake-cake, coffee dregs, wine dregs, excreta of hen, cattle, pig or an organic refuse.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - AGRICULTURE - Preferred Source: The soil conditioner containing charcoal is manufactured from rafter charcoal. The rafter charcoal is obtained by purifying Japanese apricot seasoning waste liquid, plum vinegar waste liquid or its process liquid obtained from a spindly growing branch, waste material and/or rafter husk of Japanese apricot varieties. Preferred Method: The process liquid of Japanese apricot seasoning waste liquid is used for cultivation after yeast desalination. A polyglutamic acid producing microbe is cultivated in culture supernatant liquid, preferably the process liquid of plum vinegar waste liquid. Preferred Property: The soil conditioner containing Japanese apricot charcoal powder passes through a 1 - 10 millimeter sieve.Preferred Soil: Amber soil, Kanuma soil, humus soil and/or compost river-sand are mixed with 1 - 15 percent by volume of vermiculite.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Features: The hydrogen generating unit comprises a conversion reactor unit (6) followed by a water gas shift reactor unit (7) and the water supply system comprises respective water feed lines (10a, b, c) for these units and/or the fuel cell cathodes (4). The hydrogen generating unit also has a hydrogen separation membrane (7b) for selective separation of the hydrogen product gas from residual gas, the water recovery system having a condenser (13) for condensing water from this residual gas and the conversion reactor water feed line (10a) being heated by passage through this condenser (13). The water recovery system also has a second condenser (15) for condensing water from the cathode off-gas, a common cooling circuit being provided for both condensers (13, 15). A first heat exchanger (20) is provided for heat exchange between the separated hydrogen product gas and the residual gas downstream of the first condenser (13) and/or a second heat exchanger (23) is provided for heat exchange between the separated hydrogen product gas and the cathode off-gas downstream of the second condenser (15). A residual gas expansion unit (21) is mechanically coupled to a product gas pump unit (22). A mixer unit (24) is provided for dosing anode off-gas into the product gas and/or an anode off-gas line is used to supply anode off-gas into the hydrogen generating unit. A catalytic combustion unit (27) is supplied with the residual gas and the cathode off-gas and is followed by a combustion exhaust gas expansion unit (28) which is mechanically coupled to a pump unit (29, 30) used for air supply to the fuel cell cathodes (4) and/or to the hydrogen generating unit.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - AGRICULTURE - Preferred Method: The binder used contains a natural product which contributes beneficially to the physiology of plants e.g. by acting as a fertilizer or a growth stimulant. The product is preferably sterilized by mechanical, thermal or chemical means to avoid germination of any seeds present. Trace elements and additives may be incorporated into the fertilizer depending on the requirements of the plants with which it is to be used. Suitable natural binders are e.g. molasses, starch solution, milk of lime or mixtures of these. The products may be further compacted by extrusion, pelleting, etc. to give materials which are easy to apply and incorporate into the soil. EXAMPLE - No suitable example is given.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Process: The purified natural gas is from a natural gas liquefaction unit in which crude natural gas is purified by adsorption to reduce the carbon dioxide and water vapor content to less than 1 ppm (molar) and the natural gas is liquefied and, if necessary, rectified to remove C2+ components.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Apparatus: A heat exchanger is placed on the inlet line to preheat the air to 600-800 degrees C. The burner is also supplied with propane or natural gas. The combustion gases entering the thermolysis chamber are held at 450-750 degrees C, preferably ca. 650 degrees C, and the thermolysis chamber is held at a pressure of 100 mbars to 1.2 bars. The post-combustion chamber feeds a steam generator (36). The solid residues are sorted and the carbonated fractions are sent to another combustion chamber (58) to be burned, with the other combustion chamber also feeding a steam generator (59). The steam from the various generators is used to generate electricity. The thermolysis chamber is horizontal, with waste carried on trolleys (11) which move through the chamber by mechanical means. The means of receiving the waste are mounted to move between a position for receiving the waste and a position of disposing of the residue and have means of allowing passage of the hot gases through the waste. The gas inlet provides the gas under these means. Means of cooling are provided under the furnace to cool the solid residues.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Materials: The catalyst has a support comprising titanium oxide which has basic spots on the surface and has composition where platinum is supported on the support. A rare earth metal selected from lanthanum and/or cerium may be added to the platinum. The platinum and rare earth metal are present in amount of 0.1-3 weight% and 0.3-3 weight% respectively, on the titanium oxide support. Alternatively, palladium is used instead of platinum and its use amount is 0.5-5 weight%. A cooling coil for cooling the catalyst is disposed in the reaction vessel. The reaction vessel has many compartments opposing to gas inlet to gas outlet with many gas permeable plates. The catalyst and cooling coil are arranged in the compartment spaces.Preferred System: A desulfurizer is arranged on the upstream side of the reformer. A carbon monoxide selective oxidizing unit for selectively oxidizing carbon monoxide in the reformed gas is arranged between the reformer and fuel cell.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Solvent: (I) is dissolved in an organic solvent(preferably water, dimethyl sulfoxide, dimethyl formamide, sulfolane, glycol derivatives, hydrocarbons, halogenated hydrocarbons, and oxygenated hydrocarbons.Preferred Gas Stream: The gas stream comprises 40 - 90% of CO2. Preferred Complex: Two compounds of formula(1) comprise a spherical dimer with the methane gas enclosed within it. Preferred Definitions:    R = phenyl.    EXAMPLE - No relevant example is given.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Composition: The composition comprises a terpolymer including an ammonium derivative monomer preferably dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Fiber Assembly: The fiber assembly consisting of a fiber aggregate has a magnitude of 5-30 mm diameter, 5-90 mg/cm3 density and 0.01-100 deniers size. The outer diameter shape of the fiber assembly are sphere body, polygonal pair, columnar body, pyramid object, cone object or the unusual shape object which changed these shapes. The fiber assembly is injected with microorganisms and adhered with an organic nutriment and a deodorizer. The fiber assembly is sawdust, chaff, charcoal, zeolite, ceramic and/or coffee residue.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INSTRUMENTATION AND TESTING - The mixed gas is argon-helium mixed gas.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Materials: The polymers in layer (C) contain at least 10 monomer units and layer (C) consists of at least two superimposed layers of polymer. Membrane (A) consists of polymer or ceramic material.Preferred Process: Layer (C) is formed on the gas-permeable layer (B).    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Process: The membrane is used for the separation of mixtures of nitrogen and oxygen, hydrogen and carbon monoxide, hydrogen and nitrogen, carbon dioxide and methane, helium and methane, helium and nitrogen, or hydrogen and methane. EXAMPLE - A cylindrical base membrane consisting of non-woven polyether-imide supporting fabric coated with a non-porous, 1-micron layer of poly-dimethylsiloxane was coated by the Langmuir-Blodgett technique with a perm-selective layer of poly-(gamma-methyl-L-glutamate)0.7-co-(gamma-octadecyl-L-glutamate)0.3. This involved spreading a solution of the polymer (20 mg in 10 ml chloroform) on water at room temperature, adjusting the thrust to 20 mN/m by reducing the monofilm-coated surface, immersing the base membrane at 40 mm/s, holding for 34 seconds, withdrawing the membrane at 40 mm/s and repeating the process after a further 34 seconds, with transfer ratios of 1 +/- 0.05. The final membrane showed selectivities (against nitrogen) of 1.56 (1.30), 2.56 (3.27), 3.01 (2.67), 8.29 (1.54), 12.30 (2.21) and 27.83 (14.25) for carbon monoxide/N2, methane/N2, oxygen/N2, helium/N2, hydrogen/N2 and carbon dioxide/N2 respectively, with permeability coefficients (10-10 cm3 (STP).cm/cm2/s/cmHg) of 1.48 (193.4), 2.31 (251.3), 3.80 (536.8), 4.45 (517.1), 12.26 (298.7), 18.19 (427.6) and 41.14 (2756) for N2, CO, CH4, O2, He, H2 and CO2 respectively. Values in brackets are for the base membrane without the perm-selective layer.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Method: The method also comprises monitoring and maintaining the temperature and oxygen content of the pile, preventing the pile from compaction by generating a positive air flow during stacking, reducing noxious odors through aerobic mineralization while drawing the negative air flow through the pile, ensuring that the air entering the conduit has an ammonia content of not more than 30 mg/m3, passing the conduit through a greenhouse (54) to collect heat radiated from the conduit, collecting water from the conduit upstream of and below the biofilter, irrigating the porous pile with the collected water and ensuring that the air entering the biofilter is 100% saturated and at not more than 100 degrees F.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Shape: The elastic core material is in the shape of an S or approximately a solid star.Preferred Arrangement: A slit (3) for ejecting shells of egg and fine undecomposed residue is provided to the lower side wall of the treatment tank, along the rotation direction of stirring blade. The ejected refuse is removed by a receptacle tool (4) which is arranged downward to the slit.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Arrangement: The treatment tank of the apparatus has a dew condensation water guide means (5) to guide the condensed water adhered inside the lid (2a) to the downstream side of the exhaust port. The water supply unit supplies water from vane unit. The base material is made of buck wheat husk (1). An air supply unit (6) supplies air from the vane unit to the base material in the treatment tank. The apparatus also has an organic refuse grinding unit (8) to grind in 3-30 mm of organic refuse before supplying into the base material. The treatment tank is also used as a triangular corner (9) in which the organic refuse is supplied from a sink and other organic refuse insertions. The apparatus has a water type conversion means (7) which converts the treated water carried out from the exhaust port into fresh water.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOTECHNOLOGY - Preferred Apparatus: The filler used in the ventilator of the organic waste fermenter is a seed incrustaion of a ginkgo. EXAMPLE - No relevant example given.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Process: Three kg of actinomyces A1 is added to 5 tons of livestock dung. Five kg of lignin decomposing microbe A2 is added and allowed to stand for several weeks to disassemble the cellulose and mini-cellulose, and to reduce the carbon content. An unpleasant odor processing microbe T4 (1 kg/10 square feet) is uniformly dispersed to the waste to eliminate the bad smell of ammonia, hydrogen sulfide and methyl sulfide gas. The livestock waste is screened in a predetermined mesh for a predetermined time and the obtained waste water (30 tons) is treated with microbe S2 (2 kg). Waste water fresh meat (30 tons) is processed by adding microbe T5 (2 kg/10 square feet). During chick breeding microbe T3 (1 kg) is mixed uniformly in saw dust bed containing excrements of hen and fermented and bio K2 (0.1-0.5 %) is mixed in the livestock feed and unpleasant smell produced in the cattle shed is eliminated. All the above microbes used consistently the micromonospora of single genus by which resistant mutation was performed by high temperature resistant operations, for 30 minutes or more at above 100 degrees C and chemical resistant mutation operation is carried out for 30 minutes in phenol type microbicide such as cresol 1 % aqueous solution.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Process: The solid liquid separation means is a centrifuge and the organic acid is concentrated by heat or by ion exchange resin. The pH is adjusted in souring by adding calcium carbonate.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Apparatus: The water storage tank in the apparatus contains a flow type or a non floating type carrier, a water sprinkling line (11) to circulate the waste water from a storage tank to the filled layer of the packed column, a blower and diffusion tube (6) for aeration, a strainer and a stirrer (16). The strainer (14) placed between a drainage pipe (15) and the water tank prevents the outflow of the flow type carrier.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Process: The temperature, moisture level and volume of air in the decomposition vessel are controlled as a function of the decomposition rate. The microorganisms are added in the form of Bio Giga Powder (RTM). The temperature in the vessel is maintained at 50-65 degrees Celsius for several hours.Preferred Apparatus: Air is withdrawn from the container by means of a fan, heated by means of a heat exchanger, and partly recycled to the container. The agitator has spiral blades mounted on a common axis so that their action is directed axially inwards, preferably where the outer blades have a greater diameter than the inner blades.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Composition: The copolymer has number average molecular weight of 200 - 1000, CO incorporation of 2 - 50 mol.%, and is branched with 80 - 300 branches per 1000 carbon atoms. The copolymer further comprises acetyl unsaturated monomer units of formula (I).-HC=CH- (I).Preferred Method: The feed is reacted at 50 - 230 degreesC, and 100 - 30,000 psi and includes a free radical initiator having appropriate half life. The initiator is selected from ditertiary-butyl peroxide, 2,5-dimethyl-2,5-ditertiary-butyl-peroxyhexane, di-cumyl peroxide, tertiary-butyl hydroperoxide, tertiary-octyl hydroperoxide, cumene hydroperoxide, benzoyl peroxide, tertiary-butyl peroxy pivalate, tertiary-butyl-perbenzoate and/or azo-bis-isobutyronitrile. The feed further comprises at most 10 mole% acetylene and is derived from a hydrocarbon conversion process. The copolymerization is conducted in presence of a solvent selected from toluene, benzene, dioxane, pentane, heptane, hexane, propylene oxide and/or cyclohexane. SPECIFIC COMPOUNDS - The olefin is ethylene.    EXAMPLE - Pure n-hexane (150 ml) and 75% t-butyl peroxypivalate (0.611 g) in mineral spirits were charged to a reactor and pressurized with multicomponent syngas-type feed comprising (mole%) acetylene (8.3), ethylene (9.5), carbon monoxide (21.3), carbon dioxide (3.29), methane (4) and hydrogen (53.65) to 200 psig. Reaction was carried out at 66 degreesC while stirring and the pressure maintained for 24 hours. The mixture was cooled and then depressurized to obtain carbon monoxide-containing polymer (1.5 g) which was soluble in hexane and had 202 total number of branches per 1000 carbon atoms.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Method: TiC is powder blended with a binder material and hot pressed at 175-190degreesC and at 10,000-40,000 psi, preferably at 190degreesC and 30000 psi. Preferred Binder: The binder is polysulfone, polyvinylidene fluoride resin, polyethylene, polypropylene, fluoroethylenepropylene, polyimide, polyetheretherketone, polyetherketone, polyphenylene sulfide or polybenzyimidazole.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Apparatus: The bipolar plate is a flat plate having integral ribs that define gas flow passages between adjacent single fuel cells.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Fuel Cell: The single fuel cells are phosphoric acid fuel cells (PAFC). Preferred Property: The single fuel cells are regenerative proton exchange membrane fuel cells. EXAMPLE - No suitable example.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Arrangement: The rotor makes the periphery of rotation axis and protrudes a raking unit radially in shape of a flat board in the rotation direction and the disconnects the compost raw material. The free end of the cover is equipped with the aperture edge of the bucket by a nail such that the opening and closing operation is carried out in a cylinder. The rotor is provided in a direction in which the opening of bucket is parallel such that the direction is mutual.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Process: After the heat treatment, air is passed over for a predetermined time. The carbide carbonizes sludges obtained from organic refuse. Preferred Amount: The amount of carbide added during fermentation is 1/5 weight of the organic waste.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Components: The compost additionally comprises a porous material such as fine granules of porous mineral and/or plant charcoal. The organic waste comprises livestock waste, mushroom waste medium and/or food processing residues.Preferred Method: The porous material is added to the composition, mixed and fermented.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Apparatus: A separating base, for dripping water is distributed in the organic refuse injection site. A heater is provided to the tank and a warm air blowing unit is provided to the stirring blade.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Process: Vegetable waste is ground and dried to contain 60 weight% (wt.%) or less, preferably 50 wt.% or less of water component. The dried waste is ground and 20-40% (by dry weight ratio) of clay mineral is added for granulation. The grain-like carbide formed is dry distilled in an externally heated rotary kiln.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - Preferred Composition: The first conductive fibers comprise metal including stainless steel.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Material: The rigidifying material includes plastic resin. The fuel cell comprises a polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell.
EXAMPLE - The analyzer sends signals for delivering at least part of the hot atoms stream to the starved air burner when the oxygen concentration rises above a predetermined value. The facility also includes heating the incoming products with the gaseous feedstock stream for vaporizing volatile carbon compounds in the products prior to combustion. The facility further comprises a hopper (40) for receiving products, a metal removing facility (16) and a recombination facility for combining hydrogen and carbon monoxide. A low carbon dioxide level signal from the analyzer will introduce an oxygen rich material (preferably water) into the generator. The molecular stream is received by a separation facility (30) having a first outlet delivering carbon monoxide, a second outlet delivering an inert gas, and a third outlet delivering hydrogen. The plasma arc generator is an inert gas plasma arc generator. The recombination facility is a methanol synthesis plant.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Battery System: The connecting pipe is equipped with control unit (40) for controlling water vapor or oxygen supplied to the modifier, thereby controlling the reformation of hydrocarbon raw material in the modifier.The fuel battery system comprises an oxygen utilization factor controlling element (42) for controlling utilization of oxygen in the fuel battery, thereby controlling the amount of oxygen sent to the modifier through connecting pipe.Battery system also comprises water vapor formation unit (44) which forms water vapor using water formed in the fuel battery. The unreacted hydrogen ejected from a fuel battery is burnt and used for heating water.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Microorganism: The culture solution contains the metabolite of microorganism of Pseudomonas putida and/or Pseudomonas fluorescence.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Apparatus: A hydrogen separation membrane (6, 15) is integrated into one and/or both reactors. A water vaporizer (11) is provided which is heated by a burner unit (18a) and/or from the heat from the shift reactor.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Materials: The first electrode substrate has a coating comprising an ion-conducting polymer. EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the invention, the structure of the electrode varies symmetrically as the active area, which is rectangular. The assembly further comprises a second reactant flow path which extends linearly across the second active area. The fluid transport properties and material composition of the first substrate vary symmetrically, while its density, porosity and pore size increase as the active area is traversed in-plane in the direction of the first reactant flow path. The material composition and loading of the electrocatalyst vary symmetrically as the electrode is traversed in the direction of the first reactant flow path.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Arrangement: The oxidation gas feed unit is regulated so that the mole ratio of the carbon monoxide contained in the hydrogen-rich gas to the oxygen is the same as the predetermined mole ratio. The mole ratio is more than 0.05, preferably more than 0.2. The reformer further comprises a gas flow determining unit for determining the amount of hydrogen-rich gas fed to the shift reaction region. The shift reaction comprises using a copper-zinc catalyst.
EXAMPLE - The apertures are situated within a confined area midway of the sidewalls offset inwardly from upwardly extending edges of the sidewalls. The two control discs are aligned side-by-side with the containers for rotary movement about the center of the apertures. Each disc has an operating member that extends between the containers to an outer portion. The apparatus also includes a support in the form of a tray (6) for receiving the containers, an operating member to define stop positions for the rotation of the disc, and a tap-controlled drain device (8) to permit periodic drainage of liquid. The containers (2, 4), which are removable for emptying, have perforated bottoms to permit drainage of liquid.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Material: The electrically conductive material is a thermosetting or a thermoplastic resin.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Device: The fuel cell is a solid polymer fuel cell.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: The fluid flow field plate is made of expanded graphite.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Apparatus: The apparatus further comprises a valve system for selecting active heat exchanger, between the heat exchangers (216, 221).The heat exchangers comprise a heat exchange coil which has an input end for receiving the refrigerant and output end for discharging the refrigerant.The heat exchange coil has an outer surface which is in thermal contact with the refrigerant passing through the heat exchange coil.A chamber is provided in the heat exchanger for contacting a gas with outer surface of heat exchange coil. The chamber has an input and output port for receiving and discharging gas to be cooled. The valve system comprises valve (I) for connecting the output port of the compressor to input end of heat exchange coil in the regenerating heat exchanger and for connecting the output end of heat exchange coil in active heat exchanger to input port of compressor and valve (II) for passing mixture of gases to input port of active heat exchanger.The apparatus also comprises an input gas precooling heat exchanger for precooling the mixture of gases by thermally contacting mixture of gases with carbon dioxide discharged from regenerating heat exchanger.A refrigerant precooling heat exchanger is also provided for cooling the compressed refrigerant by thermally contacting the compressed refrigerant with refrigerant discharging from the active heat exchanger, before passing into regenerating heat exchanger.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Method: The prepared compost from the matured process is taken as seed compost. The mixture from the rough kneading process is mixed with a predetermined ratio of organic waste and the fermentation process is repeated. The ratio of prepared compost and organic waste or setup arbitrarily at 1:10-1:2. An activity liquid which stimulates the physical properties of raw materials is added during mixing or grinding process. The prepared compost is sieved to a final uniform particulate material after maturing process. Preferred Arrangement: The mixing unit has two sets of screw feeder and mixers. The screw feeder is covered by cylindrical housing throughout the length. A spiral object is supported rotatably and each mixer has a cylindrical housing. A hopper is established at the upper end side of the housing having an outlet. The hopper supplies raw material to the housing and sent out the completed raw material. A shaft is prolonged in the direction of axial center inside the housing and a vane unit for stirring spirally prolonged along the housing in the peripheral wall fixed to the shaft integrally through the support unit. The grinding unit has a grinding machine containing a housing which provides an opening through which raw materials are thrown. The housing has lower exhaust outlet through which the process compost or ejected. The machine style mounts the chain of predetermined length in the axial direction so that the gap may not be formed on a dropped route. The sieved machine has the hopper connected to one end of the main body of a tube. The whole circumference of the tube shifts and forming a network material. The shaft prolonged in the direction of axial center which can be rotated by the reverse direction is located in the tube. A brush which is spirally prolonged along the internal circumference of the main body of a tube which is integrally fixed through the support unit.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Arrangements: The culture tank in plant recycle apparatus is connected to a cutting machine and a packing machine.Preferred Material: The fermentation material used in the plant recycle apparatus is coffee germ.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Process: The content of various products obtained by fermenting the sludge are nitrogen (2%), phosphorus pentaoxide (8%) and potassium oxide (1%). (In mg/l) Dissolution test of the processed sludge shows presence of lead (0.02), cadmium (0.005), arsenic (0.06), hexavalent chromium (0.02), mercury (0.005), organic phosphorus (0.1), cyanide (0.1), trichloroethylene (0.005), tetrachloroethylene (0.0002), PCB content (0.001) and water (30-40% preferably 80-85%). The processing of sludge involves mixing timber chip (volume is 1.5 times greater than the sludge), and microbial cell solution (70 liters containing 1010 solids per g diluted with 150 times of water). The aeration is performed using a blower of 2-2.5 Kws for primary fermentation, 4-4.5 Kws for secondary fermentation and 0.5-1 Kws for final fermentation. The product before fermentation is passed through the filter medium containing activated carbon, passed through a deodorizing tank and into an aerated water tank which removes hydrogen sulfide compound. The atmosphere during the primary fermentation contains ozone 1 (ppm).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - AGRICULTURE - Preferred Composition: Humic acid (2.5 wt.% or less) and 60 wt.% or more of wheat powder and/or wheat bran (based on the total weight) is contained in the FPM. 105 colony forming units (CFU) or more of heat resistant microbe are contained in 1 g of FPM.Preferred Property: The heat resistant microbe survive at 55 degreesC after mixing the components for 10 minutes at 80 degreesC.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Process: The adsorptive or permeative separation stage (A1) is connected to a further adsorptive or permeative separating stage (A2), in which a C2 component-rich fraction (10) is removed.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Materials: The adsorbent used is silica gel, alumina gel, activated charcoal or zeolite, preferably doped with Cu+ ions or Cd2+ ions.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Method: The pressure application acceleration part turns the raw material delivery cross section of first and second screw vane in each raw material direction, to reduce the contents in the treatment tank gradually.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOTECHNOLOGY - Preferred Microorganism: The microorganism is Bacillus subtilis takemi (FERM BP-6589), isolated from a Siberian soil sample. The strain has antibacterial activity and neutralizes unpleasant odors and bitter tastes. Bacillus subtilis takemi (FERM BP-6589) contains 0.044% (wt) chitin and 0.035% chitosan. ACTIVITY - Fertilizer.    MECHANISM OF ACTION - None given.    EXAMPLE - A mixture of glucose (120 g), yeast extract (60 g) and inorganic multiporous ceramic granules (3 kg) in water (1200 ml) was stirred and Bacillus subtilis takemi (FERM BP-6589) (108 cells/ml) added at 25-45 degreesC. The ceramic was separated and mixed with rapeseed waste (200 kg), bone meal (200 kg), fish waste (150 kg), rice bran (150 kg), soya powder (150 kg), chicken manure (100 kg) and seaweed compost (100 kg) as organic substrates and digested for 30 minutes to give a soil improvement composition.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Compound: The alkali metal solution is a salt solution of potassium or cesium or its mixture. The clay is bentonite clay and is present in amount of 2-40 wt.%. The binder is sodium lignosulfate, starch and polyvinyl alcohol.Preferred Process: The zeolite mixture is subjected to ball milling to produce powders of particle size of less than 60 microns. The adsorbent bodies are dried at room temperature for 6-12 hours, followed by oven drying at 110 degreesC for 6-18 hours. The calcination is carried out at 500 -750 degreesC for 2-12 hours. The cation exchange is carried out at a concentration of 1-10 wt.% of the cation in an aqueous solution at 30-100 degreesC for 4-48 hours. The cation exchanged adsorbent bodies are thoroughly washed with hot water. EXAMPLE - Pentasil type zeolite powder having chemical composition (Na8Al8Si40O96nH2O) prepared by the method described in U.S.Pat.No 3,574,539 was further repeatedly treated with 10 % wt / wt aqueous solution of potassium chloride at 90 degreesC. The solution was thereafter decanted and the adsorbent was washed with hot distilled water until the wash solution showed the absence of chloride. The adsorbent was then dried at 110 degreesC in an air oven. The zeolite structure was intact after potassium chloride treatment as all the x-ray diffractions present in pure zeolite were present.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Properties: The EM microbe accelerates organic refuse composting. Preferred Malt: The Koji malt is formed by cultivating rice bran by Aspergillus.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOLOGY - Preferred Method: The processed material is circulated many times in the processing apparatus. The heat evolved during the circulating process is utilized for heating another part.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Apparatus: The sort sending unit is equipped with a reclosing pipe (76) which returns the processed material of a rough grain to TT. The sort sending unit attaches to a tube surface facing the elimination pipe of the sort sending pipe (71) equipped internally with an inlet (72) for processed material. A screw conveyer (73) equipped with a cutting blade, is at the bottom part of TT, transfers the processed material upward from the inlet. Reclosing pipe returns the process material of an elimination hole (74) equipped with a slide board adjusting the opening area sends the fine granule processed material to the elimination pipe and the rough grain is transferred to the upper part of the sort sending pipe. The reclosing pipe transfers less quantity of processed material than by the sort sending pipe.Preferred Process: Biodegradation process of organic refuse is performed by fermentation method.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Apparatus: The apparatus is equipped with a slide board (22) which opens or closes the opening of the treatment tank. The board is sliding to a horizontal direction. A blade (23) is installed at the top of the slide board which is movable. The switch is equipped with the stopper which regulates the movement of slide board. The apparatus is equipped with the re claimer (40). The organic refuse is biodegraded by fermentation method.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Apparatus: Input regulation unit adjusts the quantity of regulator supplied by the regulator injection unit whenever the lid of TT is opened once. The apparatus is equipped with a storage chamber (15) to which the quantity of regulator supplied to regulator injection units is stored temporarily. The storage chamber is interlocked with opening-closing (12) of the lid. The apparatus is equipped with a storage chamber opening-closing unit (16) to switch and close the storage chamber and equipped with a valve to which storage chamber opening-closing unit switches and closes an elimination hole (15b) opened on a base (15a) of the storage chamber. The valve control unit of the opening-closing of the lid which is interlocked operate the valve. The apparatus is equipped with a guide plate with which a regulator store room carries the regulator to the storage chamber when the lid is opened. Multiples of regulator store room are provided, a different regulator is stored in each chamber and the opening-closing of each chamber is controlled. The apparatus is equipped with a regulator selection unit to choose the regulator supplied to the TT. The regulator stored in the regulator store room is the microorganism which decomposes an oxygen generating agent, pH regulator or an organic refuse. The biodegradation process of an organic refuse is by fermentation method.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOTECHNOLOGY - Preferred Method: The processing method of the organic refuse by adding Bacillus subtilis kubota having many mycological characters such as aerobic, gram positive and small rod shaped 1.2-1.4 x 3.6-3.8 micrometers. The cell structure has cytoplasmic membrane, nucleus, spore and characteristic septum, (non) motility flagella, asperogenous spores. The bacteria is acid fast bacteria with ziehl-neelsen strain. The growth state of the bacteria is measured by inoculating into a broth agar flat plate at 37 degrees Celsius for 24 hours. The obtained cells are opaque and pale yellow color. The color is same for sheep blood liquid agar culture, heart infusion agar culture and trypto-soya agar culture. The microorganisms can hydrolyzed starch and can decompose cellulose and also has oxidase and catalase properties.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Method: The organic refuse processing method involves mixing organic refuse to solution containing microbial cells of 104-108 cells/ml of Bacillus subtilis kubota. The solution is supplied to the process for 30-40 days by continuous or intermittent supply.Preferred Arrangement: The apparatus has a recovery tank connected with a air tight chamber through a pipe communicating atmospheric air through a deodorization apparatus.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Method: The original heating gas is passed to desulfurization unit (1) through original heating gas flow path (7). The desulfurized gas from unit (1) is passed through desulfurization gas flow path (9) to modifying unit (MU), where the desulfurized gas is heated. The gas ejected from MU is passed through an upstream MU gas flow path (10f) for heating the gas. The gas after passing through path (10f) is passed to downstream MU gas flow path (10b). The modified gas is heated by heating unit comprising combustion unit (CU) (4) for burning gas. The combustion exhaust gas is passed through a waste gas flow path (12) from CU (4). The waste gas is passed to an upstream side cooling unit (13f) and then to downstream side cooling unit (13b). The cooled gas is passed to transformation unit (5) where transformation of carbon monoxide gas is performed. The transformed gas is selectively oxidized in a selective oxidation unit (6) and cooled. Preferred Apparatus: The water vapor formation unit, MU, CU and waste gas flow path for heating are contained in a flat tabular shape unit. MU and CU are provided on one unit. The thickness of tabular shaped unit is dependent on the thickness of CU. A heat insulation unit, waste gas flow path and water vapor formation unit are arranged in a parallel direction such that the thickness of each tabular shape is dependent on the thickness of CU.
EXAMPLE - In EMBODIMENTS of the gas detector the gas cell container (5) has windows (6) and (7) for entry and emergence of light with an air tight structure between. When the target gas is a non-corrosive gas such as carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4) or nitrous oxide (N2O), a metal container is used for the container (5). When the target gas is a corrosive gas such as ammonia (NH3) or hydrogen chloride (HCI), a glass container is used. The light diffuser may be an acrylate resin plate or glass plate or metal particles blended into a transparent plastic plate or glass plate having a surface polished into frosted glass. In some embodiments the light diffuser may be a reflection type light diffuser of glass or metal having frosting finished surfaces, or aluminum or gold vapor deposited on the frosting finished surfaces, or a powder of a large reflectance (polytetrafluoroethylene, barium sulfate, sulfur) applied to the frosting finished surfaces. The reflection type light diffuser as the light diffuser may be provided on an entire inner surface of the gas cell container in which the inner wall of the container has no corners or the container may be spherical with the photodetector (3) located at any position where light does not enter directly. The laser source and the photodetector may be installed on a wall of the spherical container. The laser source includes a laser having an oscillation wavelength matching with an absorption spectrum of the target gas and an optical spectral line width narrower than an absorption spectral line width of the target gas. The light diffuser may be arranged between the laser source and the first window. The first window may be replaced with a transmission type light diffuser as the light diffuser.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INSTRUMENTATION AND TESTING - Preferred Apparatus: The apparatus preferably further comprises an operator station (310), a controller (320), and an insulated apparatus enclosure. The chambers comprise an interior structure for tumbling the contents during rotation. The structure is oriented parallel to the axis of the drum.Preferred Methods: The continuous process further comprises permitting low pressure outgassing from the drum, measuring the temperature in the second chamber, incrementally rotating the drum about its axis, and periodically exchanging air in the drum for outside air. The process takes place within an insulated enclosure and optionally comprises using a controller to integrate and automate steps.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOLOGY - Preferred Fungi: The preferred edible mushroom is shiitake, bunashimeji, enokitake or maitake mushroom, preferably hen of wood Grifola frondos, white maitake mushroom Grifola albicans, Polyporus umbellatus Grifola umbellatus, Meripilus giganteus or Grifola gigantea.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Method: Prior to or after adding mushrooms to the contaminated soil or water a sulfonic acid compound comprising a ligno sulfonic acid or lignin containing material is added. After cultivation of the edible mushrooms, the waste microbial bed in a powder or block form is dispersed in the contaminated soil. EXAMPLE - The fruit portion of maitake mushroom was harvested and mixed with waste microbial bed. A 25 g of hyphal lump was cultured in inorganic medium containing KH2PO4 (20 g), NaH2PO4 (0.2 g), MgSO4 (0.5 g), CaCl2 (100 microg), FeSO4 (100microg), ZnSO4 (10 microg), CuSO4 (20 microg), ammonium tartrate (0.2 g) and thiamine hydrochloride (100 microg). The concentration of polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) in the culture solution was analyzed by gas chromatography and the hyphal culture solution was mixed with a mixture of polytron. After 7 days the PCB concentration was measured again. The result showed that the PCB was efficiently decomposed by maitake mushroom.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - AGRICULTURE - Preferred Device: In the second open position, the lid rises to the vertical hinged at the rear, and simultaneously partially lowers behind the bin rear wall where it is held in a stable and supported condition.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOTECHNOLOGY - Preferred Substrate: Inert inorganic colloidal substrate (16) used as support to biomass in equal detox tank (5) are bentonite, dolomite, diatoms, biochelated and non-biochelated oligo elements and additional nutrients in which phosphorus, nitrogen and carbon are balanced in a ratio of 1:16:100 and 5:15:100.Preferred System: An air lift biopump (13) named BLUP circulates an exact constant amount of sludge from sedimentation tank to biocavitation tank (7). At least 10 cm (or inches) of granular substrate (8) of marine origin is included on the bottom of the biocavitation tank, to act as a pH buffer. The pH in the tank must be closed to 7.7. Photosynthetic and chemosynthetic hyperbaric biocolumns (15) are provided to generate liquid biocatalyst (from anhydrous biocatalyst) with a para enzymatic oxygenating and osmotic action on the membranes of saline tolerant microorganism.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Arrangement: The vessel is located on, below or above the sea floor, partially below the sea surface or substantially on the sea floor. Preferred Vessel: The vessel is substantially formed from a complaint material. The vessel substantially comprises complaint structure. The complaint structure comprised of sheet(s) of high density polyethylene. The vessel is generally dome shaped.Preferred Method: The advanced treatment method is biological treatment(s) performed by exposing produced water to microorganisms which are capable of reducing the impurities in the produced water. The produced water containing impurities is treated using primary treatment(s) technique. The produced water is generated from offshore.Preferred Apparatus: The apparatus further comprises a device to control the outflow from the vessel and recirculation of water within the vessel, and a device to anchor the vessel offshore.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOLOGY - Preferred Microorganism: The microorganisms are microorganisms collected from waste water treatment facilities, sea floor or mutant microorganisms with enhanced capacity to reduce impurities in produced water, especially Pseudomonas spp. and Arthrobacter spp.. The microorganisms are obtained from sediments dredged from the sea floor.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Process: By varying the recirculation rate of liquid between the reactor, the amount of fatty acids in the reactor is controlled. pH in the reactors and conductivity of liquid in the reactors are monitored and used for calculating and controlling the amount of volatile fatty acids and therefore the pH in the reactors is allowed to vary within pre-set values. Any parameters that indicate variations of volatile fatty acid concentration and/or pH in respective reactors are monitored to calculate and control the amount of fatty acid in the reactors. Over 90% of methane is generated in methanogenic step and more than 80% of easily degradable organic waste is converted to biogas in less than 5 days.Preferred Compounds: In acidification reactor hydrolysis and dissolution of organic material, preferably carbohydrates, oligopeptides and fatty acids takes place. EXAMPLE - Cattle manure containing 30.6 g/COD/l of suspended organic matter and 5.4 g/COD/l of soluble organic matter were fed into a reactor with 20 m3/day of reactor volumes at a constant volumetric loading rate of 2.42 m3/day. About 30 m3/day of reactor liquid was recirculated in 8 minutes, pulses every 2.5 hours between the two reactors. By this process the manure converted to 44 kg methane/day was obtained. The process was monitored and oscillations of parameters were controlled to give a better yield.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Method: The methane microbe is obtained from the integrated culture of spawn. The methane produced is used to generate electricity by driving the generator motor.Preferred Apparatus: The apparatus also comprises is spawn supply means to supply methanation microbe obtained by carry out the integrated culture of spawn to methane fermentation means. Warm water heated by thermolysis means is supplied to the methane fermentation means.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Process: The other components are particularly carbon dioxide, methane and water. At least part of the hydrogen form the permeation unit is used to regenerate the adsorber. During the PSA cycle, each adsorber passes through a partial decompression stage with forward flow, during which the outlet gas is re-compressed to the cycle high pressure and sent to the purifier. At least part of the residual gas from the adsorber is recycled to the adsorber feed after compressing (in 6). The feed gas is steam from a hydrocarbon load, rich in CO2 or hydrogen. The feed gas is from a reformer or reformer's burners.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred system: The anode flow field exhaust line preferably connects the anode exhaust to the cathode flow field inlet and the hydrogen/oxidant catalytic surface comprises a surface of the cathode substrate of the fuel cell, exhaust from the cathode flow field being vented to ambient.Alternatively, the hydrogen/oxidant catalytic surface comprises a catalytic converter (69) having an oxidant inlet separate from the fuel call, the anode field exhaust line connecting the anode flow field to the catalytic converter and the exhaust of the catalytic converter being vented to ambient. The exhaust of the cathode flow field is connected to the oxidant inlet of the catalytic converter.The hydrogen/oxidant catalytic surface comprises a catalytic converter having an oxidant inlet formed within an anode exit flow field manifold on the fuel cell, the anode flow field exhaust line comprising the manifold. The exhaust of the converter is vented to ambient. The exhaust of the cathode flow field is connected to the oxidant inlet of the catalytic converter.The oxidant is preferably air.The fuel cell system has a flow control valve in the anode flow field exhaust line which is controlled to provide intermittent flow, preferably in response to a predetermined time schedule. Alternatively, the valve meters flow in response to the amount of hydrogen in the mixture of the anode exhaust and the inlet oxidant at the inlet to the cathode flow field, in response to the composition of gas in the anode flow field exhaust, or in response to the current output of the fuel cell.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Method: OWF is obtained by removing metals from waste, particularly domestic waste and by removing coarse fractions. OWF is at least partially dried by composting. The fractions are separated by screening, gas separation or by using ballistic system. The processing of sub-fractions involves pelletizing.Preferred Properties: The predefined cut-off point used for separating OWF, is 10 mm. The fractions having dimensions above and below cut-off point, consist of materials of size 10-40 mm and less than 10 mm, respectively.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Catalyst: The electrocatalyst and oxidation catalyst are platinum (preferably) or platinum/ruthenium alloy and both have a total loading of less than 0.75 mg/cm2.Preferred Composition: The fuel stream contains 1-6 vol.% air. The carbon monoxide has a concentration of 250 ppm CO in neat H.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Elastomer: The elastomer is silicone rubber foam or closed cell sponge with a compressibility of 2-20 psi at 25% deflection, compressive set of less than 35% at 25% deflection at 190degreesF and thickness of 1/16-3/16 inch.Preferred Method: The manifold can be alternatively sealed to fuel cell by adhering elastomer layer to entire contact perimeter surface of manifold. The exposed surface of the adhered elastomer layer is applied with a low temperature curing silicone rubber adhesive of required thickness to fill any void resulting from ends of fuel cell layers with adjacent elastomer layer being non-coplanar with the surfaces of end plates facing the elastomer layer. The manifold is then positioned on fuel cell while allowing adhesive to cure under a low force applied to manifold. SPECIFIC COMPOUNDS - The elastomer is Rogers BF-1000 Poron silicone or Ja-Bar JB 0202 silicone sponge. The silicone rubber adhesive is GE RTV 108 or Dow 732.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Process: The liquid distillation stream is pumped after being withdrawn from the fractionation tower. The pumped liquid distillation stream is divided into two portions where a first portion is heated and returned to a lower point on the fractionation tower that is separated from the withdrawal point by a theoretical stage. The (pumped) liquid distillation stream is directed in heat exchange relation with a portion of the gas stream or feed streams to cool and heat the (pumped) liquid distillation stream. The quantity and temperature of the heated distillation stream and heat supplied to the fractionation tower must be effective to maintain the bottom temperature of the tower to reduce the quantity of carbon dioxide contained in the relatively less volatile fraction. EXAMPLE - Inlet gas containing (lb.moles/h) 1216383 methane, 5218 ethane, 1384 propane, 619 butane and 1054 carbon dioxide entered at 86 degreesF and 613 psia. It was cooled with cool residue gas at -99 degreesF, demethanizer reboiler liquids at 30 degreesF, demethanizer side reboiler liquids at -4 degreesF and a portion of the liquids from the bottom of absorber column at -128 degreesF. The cooled stream entered a separator and vapor stream was divided into two gaseous streams. The first stream combined with a condensed stream to form a stream which was then flash expanded. The second stream was expanded isentropically. The expanded stream was supplied to absorber tower at a lower column feed point. A liquid product exited the bottom at 42 degreesF, pumped and re-compressed. The residue gas product flowed to the sales pipeline at 631 psia. The present process improved ethane recovery from 84.89 - 86.12 %, propane recovery from 96.9 - 97.1 % and butane recovery from 99.33 - 99.41 %.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOLOGY - Preparation: The Bacillus strains were isolated from soil samples following standard microbiological techniques as outlined in Bergey's Manual of Systematic Bacteriology Vol. 2 pages 1104 - 1139. WIDER DISCLOSURE - Also disclosed are novel bacterial strains producing lipase enzymes.    SPECIFIC MICROORGANISMS - The bacteria is Bacillus pumilus GC subgroup B.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Column: The deethanizer section comprises from 20 - 60 trays. The upper and lower portions have the same cross-sectional diameter. The integrated column further includes:(a) a reboiler for the deethanizer section heated with high pressure depropanizer gross overhead;(b) a reboiler for the ethylene stripper section heated by ethylene condensed at a relatively higher pressure than the integrated column;(c) a line for refluxing the upper portion of the column with the ethylene condensed in the ethylene stripper section reboiler;(d) a compressor for compressing overhead vapor from the upper portion of the column to the pressure of the ethylene stripper section reboiler;(e) liquid lines from the distribution pan to the tops of the deethanizer section and the ethylene stripper section.The line from the distribution pan to the top of the deethanizer section includes a valve for controlling the amount of liquid supplied to the deethanizer section. The column has an operating pressure of 2 - 20 bars (30 - 290 psia).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Compounds: The volatile organic compounds are methanol, methylene chloride, toluene or acetone. The non-volatile organic compounds is aliphatic hydrocarbons, ketones, esters, halogenated hydrocarbons or nitrated organic compounds.Preferred Method: Elimination of volatile organic compounds in HW is conducted within a sparging bioreactor. Volume reduction of bulk materials involves pretreating bulk materials to reduce size, followed by contacting bulk materials with an extracellular fungal enzyme. Metals are chelated by treating with extracellular fungal enzyme so as to solubilize and separate metals.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Apparatus: The crushing unit is connected to a discharge pipe which guides processed material to a processed material reclaimer of a recovery part installed in lower part of treatment tank of process unit. The processed material reclaimer is installed directly below the discharge pipe. The discharge pipe is installed in a direction perpendicular from the lower part of treatment tank to the processed material reclaimer. The crushing unit has a tube type net which opens in upward direction and the rotary cutter is installed inside the lower part of the net. The processed material is finely cut by the rotary cutter.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Apparatus: The treatment tank consists of an exhaust outlet at the sidewall which serves as a downstream end of the processed material transfer route in the treatment tank. A lid having a switch for closing exhaust outlet is fixed to the treatment tank. The treatment tank is equipped with a rotating stirring claw which can be rotated to eject the processed material. The processed material is ejected out only when the lid of the treatment tank is opened. A sensor alarm is attached to the treatment tank to check the quantity of the processed material exceeds the predetermined height of the tank. The biodegradation of the organic refuse is done by fermentation.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - AGRICULTURE - Preferred Components: Nutrients are added to the culture medium containing waste culture bed. The plant derived waste material is beer lees. EXAMPLE - Wheat bran (1 kg) was added to preprocessed beer lees (1 kg) and used as culture bed for cultivating oyster mushroom. Mycorrhiza fungi was mixed with the above culture bed, mixed with soil and marigold was cultivated. A sampling was carried out on 29th day after seeding. The result showed an increase in growth due to the presence of nutrients in the waste material.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Reformer: The oxygen supply includes a blowout tube that extends into the central area, where the oxygen is supplied from the center of the internal chamber through outlets in the blowout tube toward the inner surface of the outer wall. The steam supplied to the vicinity of the inner surface of the outer wall has a high partial pressure.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred apparatus: The measuring instruments are respectively provided with gas sensors and the calculating unit calculates the concentration of the formed gas by comparing the output values of the gas sensor taken by a preliminary measurement of gases whose kinds and concentrations are know, with the output values of the gas sensors taken by a measurement of the formed gas.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Apparatus: The apparatus includes a container which has an openable lid which closes with its surrounding perimeter by a resilient seal to provide an airtight closure with the container. Across the bottom of the container in a series of conduits having holes passing through the walls which are collectively fed to a single exiting conduit which feeds into a pump and through a filter back into a supply conduit. The conduits (4) are attached to the container which are also coupled to an air pump (7) for extracting the air and introducing back into the container. A biofilter (8) includes compost through which the air to be filtered is passed. A mechanism effects a cyclic operation of a pump for switching on and off over a decomposing period.Preferred Method: Packing of the container includes effecting a first covering of woodchips then a layer of bodies of the material to be composted and a layer of absorbing woodchips. Placing the materials to be composted into a container, sealing the container and blowing in a recycling manner only the air and gases contained within the container through the composting materials for a period of time to collect and distribute ammonia sufficient to allow for a buildup in concentration to a pathogen killing level of ammonia derived from the composting materials, and maintaining such circulation for a sufficient period of time to effect a pathogen kill in the material. The composting materials are placed in layers with materials separating the respective layers which are porous. The process is arranged at greater than 50 ppm ammonia (preferably 50-500 ppm) of total gaseous materials including air in the container for building up ammonia and maintaining it during composting.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Oxide: The alkaline earth metal oxide is substituted with an alkali metal oxide, e.g. NaxCa1-xO, where x = 0-0.2. The rare metal oxide is cerium (IV) oxide (CeO2), lanthanum oxide (La2O3), or GdxCe1-x, where x = 0.2. The rare metal oxide that is substituted with an alkaline earth metal oxide is (CaO)xLa2O3, where x = 0-1. The Group VIII transition metal-substituted rare earth metal oxide is (NiO)xLa2O3, where x = 0-1.Preferred Material: The supports are alumina pellets provided with pure alkaline earth metal oxide, a mixed alkaline earth metal oxide, or an alkaline earth metal oxide substituted with an alkali metal oxide coating to limit carbon build-up on the pellets.Preferred Suspension: The suspension is formed from a solution of soluble salts containing alkaline earth, rare earth, alkali, or Group VIII metal ions. It is formed to maintain a percentage of the soluble salts in solution.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - Preferred Component: The gas passages include an outer steel or steel alloy component. EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT, the metal oxide coating penetrates pores in the porous alumina coating. The reformer further comprises a packed bed (12) in certain portions of the gas passages, formed from conventional catalyst supports such as alumina.
EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the invention, a drain tank (170) discharges the waste water incoming from the sedimentation tank. It further comprises an agitator (114) for the waste water incoming into the equalization tank, the first anaerobic/anoxic tank, and the second anoxic tank. A temperature control means maintains the waste water coming into the first anaerobic/anoxic tank at an appropriate temperature for microbial incubation. The temperature maintaining mechanism comprises a temperature controller internally installed in the first anaerobic/anoxic tank; and a heater installed in the first anoxic tank and controlled by the temperature controller. It further comprises a mechanism for controlling the pH of the waste water coming into the first oxic tank and the second anoxic tank. The pH controlling mechanism comprises a pH controller (134), an pH control tank (134a) for storing pH controlling solution, and a driving pump (134b) controlled by the pH controller. The sedimentation tank comprises a scraper (230) rotably installed for gathering up the activated sludge adhered on the bottom of the chamber.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Compound: The petroleum product is preferably light oil or desulfurized light oil.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: The organic fertilizer contains 3.5% or more of nitrogen and 1% or more of phosphoric acid.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Organic Waste: The organic waste raw material is preferably, beer lees.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: The compost contains 3-70 weight percent of plasters (Calcium sulfate-2 water).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Conditions: The coating contains fluorine and is 0.1-3 microns thick.Preferred Method: The coating is applied by:(a) preparing a surface of the component to create an adherent surface; and(b) plasma assisted chemical vapor deposition of a fluorine containing amorphous hydrogenated carbon film.Preferred Materials: The coating is formed from gaseous precursors including methane and tetramethylsilicon and trifluoromethyltrimethylsilane. EXAMPLE - Trifluoromethyltrimethylsilane (TFMTMS, CF3Si(CH3)3) was introduced to a vacuum chamber as a precursor gas. Methane was used as an additional precursor gas to increase the carbon atom percentage in the combined precursor gases. The methane flow was 30 sccm and the TFMTMS flow was 1-4 sccm (20 millitorr). An RF electric field (bias potential = 500V) was applied between a fuel injector substrate and a support structure to create a reactive plasma. The appearance of the resulting coating and other physical properties (e.g. hardness) were nominally identical to non fluorine containing amorphous hydrogenated carbon (see US5771873). The fluorine was estimated to be present at 10 wt.% in coatings which were most effective for adhesion resistance. The coating was studied for its ability to reduce deposits in a one cylinder test engine adapted to accept a fuel injector which could spray fuel directly into the combustion chamber. A commercial injector was tested with and without the F-AHC coating on the injector face plate by running the engine at a fixed operating point widely used for engine comparison studies (1500 r.p.m., intermediate load, near stoichiometric air to fuel ratio). It was found that the F-AHC coatings were effective for reducing deposits on fuel injectors.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred First Adsorbent: The first adsorbent is selected from molecular sieves with FAU or LTA structures, zeolite X and zeolite A.Preferred Second Adsorbent: The silver-exchanged molecular sieve with an FAU structure comprises silver-exchanged zeolite X.Preferred Third Adsorbent: The third adsorbent bed is selected from silicalite and ZSM-5.Preferred Proportions: The weight ratio of the first, second, third, and fourth adsorbent beds is 1:2:2:1.Preferred Gas Stream: The gas stream entering the inlet is selected from nitrogen, argon, helium, carbon dioxide, air, natural gas, methane, hydrogen and oxygen. EXAMPLE - No examples given.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Process: The biomass thermolysis of gas treatment is mixed with hydrogen utilization methanation microbe to form methane. Methane and obtained gas from thermolizing are supplied to a fuel battery used as electricity generator.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Composition: The composition of the raw material comprises entangling fiber, e.g. used paper, at 3-30 weight part (wt.pts) preferably 5-15 wt.pts, phenol resin 50-95 wt.pts, preferably 70-90 wt.pts and polyethylene fiber 2-20 wt.pts, preferably 5-15 wt.pts. EXAMPLE - Water was mixed with raw material consisting of entangled pulp type fiber, phenol resin and polyethylene fiber to form a mold by heat treatment at 600-1000degreesC in a reducing atmosphere. The phenol carbonized in the reducing atmosphere formed the microorganism carrier having a large mechanical strength. Polyethylene fiber decomposed and volatilized to form many holes, leading to required porosization for maintaining the microorganism. The obtained microorganism carrier was filled in a packed column to disintegrate in which the pressure loss was not increased. Thus the obtained microorganism carrier for deodorizing apparatus was excellent in durability and dependability.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred process: Dehydration in (iv) is by centrifuging or filter pressing. The sludge is granulated during the drying stage and gasification is done under a controlled atmosphere. The CO produced is particularly used as the main reactant for chemical synthesis of methanol.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred process: Dehydration in (iv) is by centrifuging or filter pressing. The sludge is granulated during the drying stage and gasification is done under a controlled atmosphere. The CO produced is particularly used as the main reactant for chemical synthesis of methanol.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOTECHNOLOGY - Preferred System: The system includes a complexing agent capable of complexing Mn ions, preferably a nitrogen-free complexing agent that is readily biodegradable and toxicologically acceptable. The mediator comprises Mn2+ or Mn3+ ions. The oxidizing agent is gaseous or liquid oxygen or an oxygen-containing gas.Preferred Process: The substrate is in the form of an aqueous solution, mixture or suspension. The concentration of Mn ions is 0.005-50 mM and the concentration of complexing agent is 1-500 mM. The oxygen partial pressure is 0.05-5 bar. EXAMPLE - A mixture of a 50 mM formate solution (pH 7.5, 22.23 ml) containing 0.05 mM manganese sulfate and a solution of veratryl alcohol (0.25 g/ml) in ethanol (0.268 ml) was equilibrated at 45 degrees Celsius for 10 minutes, treated with a Leptothrix discophora manganese oxidase solution (10 U/ml, 2.5 ml), and reacted at 45 degrees Celsius for 8 hours. Conversion to veratraldehyde was 7.24%.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Coating: The coating can be applied in 2 layers, first a photocatalytic layer using e.g. a TiCl4-methane/oxidant flame, and then a SiF4-methane/oxidant flame. EXAMPLE - A burner was supplied with natural gas containing 10% SiF4 and oxygen as oxidant. The flame was directed onto a ceramic or glass panel to give a uniform thin coating, then the panel was cooled slowly. The coating had typical water-repellent properties. If 2-5% TiCl4 vapor were also added to the natural gas, the coating also had photocatalytic properties.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Wastes: The organic wastes comprise carbon sources, or animal wastes.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Wastes: The inorganic wastes comprise nitrogen sources, oxygen sources, and/or phosphorus sources.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOLOGY - Preferred Organisms: The photosynthesis prokaryotic organisms can be purple non-sulfur bacteria. The purple non-sulfur bacteria can be Rhodospirillum, Rhodopseudomonas, Rhodobacter, Chromatium, and/or Rubrivivax. The algae can be Phyrrhophyta, Heterokontophyta, Chlorophyta, Euglenophyta, and/or cyanobacteria (blue-green algae). Chlorophyta can be Chlorella, Scenedesmus, Oocystis, and/or Euglena. The cyanobacteria can be Spirulina, Oscillatoria, and/or Phormidium.Preferred Method: The removal steps further comprise adding a polymer coagulant to the partially purified waste stream. The removal is accomplished by gravity sedimentation, or centrifugation. The isolated first mixture of microorganisms are further processed into animal feed. The isolated second mixture of microorganisms is further processed into animal feed. The purified effluent is recycled to the first reaction vessel. The first and second reaction vessels are photobioreactors.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Apparatus: The stirrer driven is by a motor (9) and a liquid sensor (14) provided in the system detects the presence of liquid at predetermined position with an indicator. The liquid sensor can be an infra-red detector mounted to one end of the chamber, and detecting light from an infra-red emitter mounted on the opposing end wall. A display unit coupled to the detector and mounted on the outside of the chamber informs the operator when the chamber is full. The motor and sensor can be removed from the chamber. The housing has a saddle (2) for supporting the chamber, and a plug (16) and socket (17). One of the plug or socket is mounted on the chamber and the other is mounted on the housing or saddle, the plug and socket are engaged when the chamber is placed within the housing. The heater comprises a heat exchanger containing a fluid which is heated by an electrical heat source (electrical filament). The heat exchanger is connected to a work performing system which generates heat, dissipates it to fluid and then transfers hot fluid to the heat exchanger by a transfer unit. A thermosensor (50) provided in thermal contact with the chamber is connected to a control processor which controls the temperature in the chamber. A manually operated control processor (25) controls the heater and/or stirrer.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Apparatus: The outlet is provided to the lower portion of fermenter of organic refuse processing apparatus. The outlet is opened by the shutter. A support seat (33) has a opening (33a) for inserting the inner side of shutter receptacle in the outer rear side of outlet. Bolt holes are provided in the shutter receptacle for fixing it to the fermenter by bolts. A protrusion (30c) formed on the inner side of shutter is clamped in an inlet (31c). A handle is provided in the front surface of the fermenter. A collection tray (29) is provided below outlet. The length of shutter and shutter receptacle are made smaller than the upper opening of tray.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOLOGY - Preferred Method: The concentration of the nitrate nitrogen, nitrite nitrogen and ammoniacal nitrogen are subsequently measured in the circulating water. EXAMPLE - 50 parts per million (ppm) of ammonia gas was continuously supplied to an original gas feed. The ratio of (nitrate and nitrite) nitrogen and ammoniacal nitrogen concentration was measured under water at pH 7.5 or less in the stored water part. The ammoniacal nitrogen concentration in circulating water was 2000-3000 mg/L, 3000-4000 mg/L and 4000-5000 mg/L. The result obtained for the ammoniacal nitrogen concentration of 2000-3000 mg/L with the ratio of nitrogen concentration 1.0 or more showed the rate of ammonia removal to be 100%. Thus the deodorizing was carried out efficiently.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INSTRUMENTATION AND TESTING - The heater comprises a burner (6) which oxidizes fuel for burning with air, and a vaporizer (7) for vaporizing the raw fuel.The controller further comprises an air quantity controller, a detector for detecting a physical value indicating the quantity of raw fuel heated by the heater, a correcting device for correcting the target temperature, and a heat value correcting device.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Filter: The depth filter is composed of segments separated by annular spacers, each segment comprising a wound depth filter made of nonwoven fibers or comprising a stack of sheets, each sheet made of nonwoven fibers. secured together by mechanical entanglement. The slurry is selected from silica, alumina, ceria, diamond or magnesium dioxide-based slurry, cell broth, photoresist chemical, fermentation products, blood, blood fractions or transgenic liquid, preferably transgenic milk. The ratio of depth filter segment thickness to spacer thickness is between 1:1:1 - 5:1, preferably 1:5:1 - 3:1. The depth filter is precompressed into its final length before it is fitted into the housing and the end caps (14,16) are fixed to the housing by a mechanical device. The inner walls of the housing have one or more slots formed, the end caps containing one or more C-rings which secure the end caps to the housing by fitting into the slots. The outer walls have a flange formed with the end caps secured to them by C-rings. The filter medium is surface-treated so it is either hydrophobic, hydrophilic, has a positive electrical charge, or has a negative electrical charge.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Materials: The weight ratio of titania to alumina is 0.1/99.9 to 90/10. The alkali metal is potassium, cesium, rubidium, sodium and/or lithium. The alkaline earth metal is barium, calcium, magnesium and/or strontium.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Processing: Garbage is decomposed by microorganisms to obtain compost by drying and humus by mixing and leaving sawdust inside the container. The internal temperature of the container is maintained at 32-38degreesC. An oil with air permeable property is mixed in the container and a hole is drilled on the container's main body for ventilation . EXAMPLE - None given.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: The propellant is a liquefied gas selected from propane, butane, and n-pentane, especially 40-60 wt.% propane or butane, and 15-40 wt.% n-pentane. The oil is present in an amount of 1-45, preferably 5-30 wt.%.
EXAMPLE - The waste is received in a feed box which has lids (2) and a sucking out (3) connected with a scrubber (4). The sucked out air is cleaned before being led out into the surroundings. The feed box is at the bottom provided with a double helical conveyor (5) which, at one end, is wound counter-clockwise and at the other end, is wound clockwise. It is rotated in such a way that the material, which has been unloaded into the feed box, is conveyed towards the middle of molehill (6). Steam is supplied below this molehill through nozzle tubes and nozzles (8). The steam condenses in the material, which is mixed by helical conveyors (5), until a sanitizing of the content of the feed box is obtained. Above the double helical conveyor, but immersed in the molehill, a worm conveyor (9) conveys the material to the press (10). The worm conveyor has two operating positions, a first one, where the worm, which is at the bottom provided with a cutter designed as a palette worm, runs backwards, cutting or shredding the material during mixing. A part (11) of tube surrounding the worm is displaceable such that the compacted material may get in contact with the worm in first operating position. After pasteurization, the worm conveyor is readjusted to second operating condition where displaceable tube is displaced downwards to surround the worm, following which, the direction of rotation is changed such that the material in feed box is conveyed to the press.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Microbial Bed: Even if the microbial bed temperature reaches 40 degrees C and is operated for 6 hours continuously after applying the organic refuse, less than 1% of the microbial bed stops functioning. EXAMPLE - None given.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INSTRUMENTATION AND TESTING - Preferred gas sensor: The mixture is obtained by using a sol-gel process produced macromolecule with raised outer surface. The gas sensitive layer has a thickness of 5 to 50 micrometers. NO, NO2, NH3 or CHx are detected. An oxidation catalyst is used in the gas sensor for detection of NO2.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: The carbonaceous feedstock is coal, hydrocarbon oil, natural gas, petroleum coke, oil shale, waste oil, hazardous waste, municipal garbage and/or medical waste.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: The greenhouse gas stream is carbon dioxide. The oxygen-containing gas is air. Preferred Component: The first and second half cells contain an electrolyte and an air electrolyte, respectively.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Process: The gasification step is done at 400-700degreesC. A portion of the synthesis gas is converted into useful hydrocarbon products in a Fischer-Tropsch reactor. A major portion of the water is condensed. The hydrogen and at least a portion of the condensed water are used to adjust the hydrogen to carbon ratio (preferably 1.75-2.25) in the combined feedstock and the greenhouse gas stream. The process further includes converting at least a portion of the synthesis gas into methanol and removing sulfur before the electrochemical oxidizing step.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Apparatus: The separator further comprises a flash unit that regenerates the solvent and produces a stream of concentrated second component and a liquefaction unit (preferably an auto refrigeration system) for liquefying the second component stream.Preferred Component: The feed gas is taken from a steam reformer and further includes carbon monoxide. The first and second components recovered from the offgas are hydrogen and carbon dioxide respectively.Preferred Condition: The compressed offgas has a pressure of 300-500 psig.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Component: The feed gas further includes methane.Preferred Material: The solvent is Selexol (RTM) or Fluor Solvent (RTM: propylene carbonate).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Materials: The first desorbent consists of 4-5C alkanes, especially 2-methyl butane (at least 85%), isobutane, and/or butane, and the second desorbent consists of 4-5C alkanes and especially pentane (at least 60%).Preferred Process: The first and second extract streams are recycled to combine with the initial feed stock (II) and the separated 2-methyl butane feed stream (i) and pentane stream (ii) are recycled. Feed stream (i) comprises at least 85% 2-methyl butane, and (ii) comprises at least 60% pentane. EXAMPLE - A fixed column packed with silicalite absorbent held at 200 degreesC/700 psig was flowed through with 2-methyl butane desorbent and feedstock containing different alkane isomers. 2,2-dimethyl butane; 2,3-dimethyl butane; 2-methylpentane and hexane retention was 0(0) 1(0) 8(4) and 20(13) cc; where values in brackets represent use of pentane desorbent in combination with silicalite.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Method: The excess sludge obtained by waste water treatment is dehydrated within one hour.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Condition: The fat and oil is preferably separated from the waste, by utilizing warm water of temperature from 60-100 degrees C for 20 minutes to 2 hours.
EXAMPLE - The following steps were carried out: (1) preparation of chromosomal DNA of Bacillus sp. KSM-P15, (2) cleavage of the chromosomal DNA with EcoRI and preparation of a recombinant plasmid, (3) determination of base sequence of the pectinic acid liase of Bacillus sp. KSM-P15, (4) cloning of KSM-P15 pectinic acid liase in a plasmid vector, pHSP64, (5) preparation of transformant of Bacillus subtilis using plasmid vector, pHSP-P15E, and (6) mass production of the pectinic acid liase with transformed Bacillus subtilisat a rate of 26 U/ml.
The mixture of 30-70% of (A), 70-30% of (B) and 5-50% of (C). (A) is obtained from waste water, feces of animals or kitchen wastes. (B) is the waste of microorganisms of mushroom culture medium. (C) is obtained from treatment of clay with an acid and alkaline waste in zeolite production and/or lime, or active bentonite used for pet and (C) contains Zn aluminoferrosilicate or its complex with non-crystalline siliEXAMPLE - A mixture of 2800 kg each of waste water sludge and waste of mushroom culture medium, and 210 kg of aluminosilicate activator was fermented for 20 days with turnover twice daily. The resultant compost showed no bad odor and was used for culture of a leafy vegetable and satisfactory growth was obtained.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INSTRUMENTATION AND TESTING - Preferred sensor: The third gas passage 915,16) is in communication with the second processing chamber and an oxygen source having the partial pressure of oxygen higher than that of the second processing chamber.
Preferred Definitions:    R1 = methyl or butyl;    R3 = H, methyl or butyl;    x = 2-8;    R4 = methyl; and    R5 = methylene or ethylene.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Catalyst: Catalyst includes mixture of oxides of rare-earth elements of europium-yttrium or samarium terbium groups resulting from industrial nitrate solutions of rare-earth elements.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Process: The compost method for manure involves removal of the half sludged refuse from the electrolytic tank. It also involves a batuki process in the electrolytic tank. Chlorine gas evolved in the positive electrode of the electrolytic tank is collected in a collection apparatus. The degree of electro-conductivity of the electrode is measured by the amount of electricity required for electrolysis and the temperature of the batuki tank is measured. The control apparatus controls the amount of air supplied to the batuki process for removal of the refuse. The garbage refuse in the tank is not segregated.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Method: (I) carried on inorganic, organic or plastic support is stirred with inorganic substance such as ceramic and used for processing organic refuse in an aerobic condition at 27-32 degrees Centigrade. EXAMPLE - Vegetable wastes were piled up in a plastic bag and inoculated with culture solution of Alcaligenes latus and left for 2-3 days. The organic wastes were completely degraded without producing any odor.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Method: The method further comprises sensing and adjusting the temperature of (III) by aerating it, sensing and adjusting the moisture content of (III), transporting the sealable container to a site remote from the mixer, and moving (IV) from the container to a curing bin (120). Generating the incubated material further comprises mixing (I) with an inoculant and conveying the mixture through a top and into the sealable container. The temperature and moisture content are maintained to at least partially decompose at least one source material. At least one source material is inoculated with one or two inoculants.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - AGRICULTURE - Preferred apparatus: The apparatus further comprises conduits to direct the gas to and from the sealable container, and at least one damper in the conduits to allow restriction of the gas transport. Gas can be made to flow either way through the gas ports, due to the configuration of the dampers. The apparatus also contains a sensor for sensing a condition in the apparatus and a controller to control the dampers in response to the sensor signal. The sensor comprises an air sensor with several inputs along the conduit, spaced to be unaffected by common turbulence. The sealable container is insulated to maintain an even temperature throughout the cavity. The base of the apparatus has a planar region and further comprises a gravity well for collecting leachate at a lower level than the planar region. A lid is present on top of the apparatus opposite the base, to allow material to be loaded and unloaded. The apparatus may have means for engaging a forklift truck or a roll-off truck. Alternatively, the apparatus may be an intermodal container, which can be handled and tipped using commercially available equipment.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - AGRICULTURE - Preferred Process: The dung is transported to a dung processing area comprising one or more composting spaces and dung transporting means. The process further comprises mixing the dung in a predetermined ratio with a structure improving agent for increasing the pore volume of the dung for processing and causing the mixture to compost for a predetermined time period under composting conditions in the composting spaces in order to obtain compost. A predetermined quantity of this compost is fed back into the process and the structure improving agent (especially comprising wood chippings) is separated from the compost. The composting agent, e.g. bacteria is added and the mixture is left undisturbed for a maximum of about 20 hours before being fed back into the process. The mixture is permitted to compost for a maximum of about 10 (especially 3) days. The compost has a dry substance content of at least 25 (especially 90) %
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOLOGY - Preferred Method: Iron ore is contacted with the microorganism in the presence of process liquid containing at least carbon, nitrogen, potassium, magnesium, hydrogen and oxygen source. EXAMPLE - A process liquid containing 10 g of glucose, 5 g of ammonium nitrate, 4 g of potassium nitrate and 0.5 g of magnesium sulfate heptahydride in 1 l of water, was prepared and pH was adjusted to 3 using formic acid. A buchner funnel was filled with 200 g of iron ore having particle size of 4.75 mm or less and contacted with microorganism Aspergillus sp (KSC-1004) and 400 ml of processed liquid was circulated at a rate of 0.5 ml/minute under 23degreesC. Dephosphorization rate after 28 days was found to be 37 weight percent (wt.%).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - AGRICULTURE - Preferred Bag: The bag contains a belt (4) with a sag (5). The belt when pulled in vertical direction acts as a handle. The trunk of the bag is coated with vinyl chloride.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Method: The organic waste is decomposed by treating with filamentous fungi at 40-70 degrees centigrade in an anaerobic atmosphere. The mixture containing carbon (5 preferably 2 volume %), carbondioxide (10-35 preferably 5-14 vol %) and moisture content (45-70 preferably 25-40 weight % (wt.%)) is kept for 5-10 days in 70-90% preferably 50-70 % of humidity . The treated organic waste is fermented with bacteria (facultative anaerobe and aerobe) at 50 degrees centigrade for 14-30 days. The fermented waste is treated with actinomyces for 30-90 days which produces antibiotic in an atmosphere of carbon dioxide concentration (18-20 %), oxygen gas concentration (less than 2%) and humidity (50-70 %). The treated organic waste with water content (30 wt.% or more).Preferred Evaluation Method: The degree of rotting down is high when the absorbance is near infrared spectrum and low when the reflection is large. From the discriminant function data of the near infrared spectrum the degree of rotting down of the organic waste is calculated.
SPECIFIC MICROORGANISMS - The amylolysis yeast is Trichosporon cutaneum strain FERMP-17004 and Candida hydrocarbamylic    EXAMPLE - No relevant example.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Process: The fermenter is heated by combustion process. Carbide gas is supplied to the fermenter obtained from carbonization.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOLOGY - Preferred Water: The organic waste water is the grinding juice of rice. SPECIFIC MICROORGANISMS - The microorganism having decomposing capacity is Flavobacterium indologenes K-K-6 (FERMP-16801).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOLOGY - Preferred Process: Ammonia gas is generated by reacting aluminum slag and water. The metal and metal oxide present in the aluminum slag is utilized as a metal amino acid and a plant alloying element. EXAMPLE - None given.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - METALLURGY - Carbon monoxide and hydrogen in the mixture is used as a fuel and reducing agent in a blast furnace. It is introduced together with coke into at least one tuyere of the blast furnace at a temperature of around 1200 degrees C.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CERAMICS AND GLASS - At least part of the gas mixture of carbon monoxide and hydrogen is introduced, preferably together with oxygen, as a fuel by a dedicated injection device into the main combustion zone, the post combustion zone and the 'Lepol' grid zone of a cement furnace. The gas mixture is injected in a main burner flame.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Reactor: Several metal plates are joined vertically to a metal plate packet forming free chambers into which catalyst particles are charged.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Agent: The antifoaming agent contains an organopolysiloxane (A) made up of units of formula (I) - (VII)R = 1-18C hydrocarbyl optionally substituted by halogen or by CN, amino, alkylamino, quat. ammonium, mercapto, epoxy, anhydrido, carboxylato, sulfonato, sulfato, phosphonato, isocyanato or polyoxyalkylene groups; andR/ = H or 1-30C hydrocarbyl optionally substituted as per R abovePolysiloxane (A) preferably contains at least 50 wt.% of an organopolysiloxane (A1) which consists of up to 90 mol.% of units of formula (II). EXAMPLE - The productivity of a bioreactor processing daily 12m3 liquid pig manure containing 300-500l fish-oil waste (which causes foaming) was increased by up to 43% by adding 0.5-1l per 150m3 biomass per day of an emulsion comprising 9.5% organopolysiloxane containing a polydimethylsiloxaneof viscosity 350 mPa.s, a resin consisting of Me3SiO1/2 and SiO4/2 units and an alpha,omega-alkoxy-functional silicon oil; 0.5% highly-dispersed silica of BET surface area above 50m2/g; 7% nonionic surfactant comprising 4% mixture of esters of a monohydric alcohol with a fatty acid and 3% ethoxylated fatty alcohols; and 83% water.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Process: Steps (i)-(iv) or (ii)-(iv) are repeated. The compost mixture initially contains at least 10 (preferably 30-70) % by weight (wt. %) amendment material, which preferably comprises agricultural waste or municipal waste sludge (specifically containing horse, cow, sheep, fish, turkey or chicken manure or activated sludge as nutrient material), optionally including a bulking material (specifically straw, peat, alfalfa, hay, sawdust or grass). A surfactant (preferably nonionic or anionic) is optionally added to the compost mixture. The composting temperature is 30-55degreesC. The redox potential is -300 to -500 mV in step (ii) and +200 to +300 mV in step (iv). EXAMPLE - Soil contaminated with methoxychlor (I) was mixed with 40 % v/v manure and 5 % v/v straw to give 175 g of a mixture containing water at 50% WHC. After anaerobic flushing with a mixture of 5% hydrogen, 5% carbon dioxide and 90% nitrogen, the mixture was incubated at 45degreesC for 4 weeks in an anaerobic chamber, with weekly mixing. The redox potential decreased rapidly during this stage, and remained below -200 mV throughout. The sample was then uncapped and thoroughly mixed weekly for aeration with atmospheric air at 80% relative humidity and 34degreesC for 4 weeks, the moisture level being maintained at 60-70% WHC by adding water twice weekly and mixing. The redox potential increased rapidly during this stage, and remained above +100 mV throughout. After two cycles of this treatment 99% of (I) was removed.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Apparatus: The apparatus has pipelines (7-9) which returns a part of gas exhausted from packed column-type biological slime reaction vessel to the inflow side of the gaseous phase reaction vessel. A fan (6) is installed in the pipeline. The apparatus has an unit to add sodium thiosulfate to the circulating water.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred apparatus: The gas stream direction (4,6) is in the same direction in the reforming device (1) and carbon monoxide removing device (2). The reforming device (1) and the carbon monoxide removing device (2) are each composed of two stages.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Materials: The Group IVB element is zirconium. The catalyst comprises 0.5-5 mass % sulfur on an elemental basis. The atomic ratio of the intermediate metal to top metal is at least 3. The core sulfated support further comprises 2-25 mass % of a refractory inorganic oxide binder. The platinum group metal is platinum. The intermediate layer comprises manganese or a compound of manganese, and the top layer is platinum or a compound of platinum. Alternatively, the intermediate layer comprises nickel or a compound of nickel, and the top layer is platinum or a compound of platinum.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Process: Free hydrogen is present in the isomerization process in an amount of 0.01-20 moles per mole of 5+ C hydrocarbons present in the zone.Preferred Conditions: The temperature is 100-200 degrees C, the pressure is 300 kPa to 4 MPa, and the LHSV is 0.5-15 hr-1, and free hydrogen is present in the isomerization zone, in an amount of 0.05-5 moles per mole of 5+ C hydrocarbons present in the zone.
Preferred Organic Compounds: The 5-7C alicyclic alcohol is selected from cyclopentanol, cyclohexanol, cycloheptanol and derivatives of these. The 5-8C monocarboxylic acid is a carboxylic acid selected from valeric acids, capronic acids, caprilic acids and caprynic acids. The organic halogen compound is trichloroethylene and the environmental circumstance is the soil.Preferred process: The activator is added to soil contaminated with organic halogen compounEXAMPLE - Cyclohexanol (0.1 % v/v ) was added to soil containing 10 ppm trichloroethylene and left for 3 weeks. The degradation coefficient of the activator depended on the type of the soil, and was 5-100%.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Component: The inverted section can be manufactured from any non-corroding material such as a plastic.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Component: The inverted section can also be manufactured from zinc-plated, aluminum or stainless steel sheeting or open mesh.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOLOGY - Preferred Components: The solid form composition contains a water soluble or water dispersible binder, at least 1 source of carbon and/or nitrogen (such as dextrose, sucrose or molasses, soy proteins, milk amino acids or yeast extract), at least one vitamin or trace element with a total weight of at least 170g .Preferred Microorganisms: The solid form composition contains 1x10power4-1x10power8 microorganisms (A) such as Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus coagulans, Bacillus sphericus, Bacillus megaterium, Baccilus licheniformis, Bacillus thurirgensis, Bacillus steareothermophilus, Bacillus poymyxa, Bacillus cereus, Bacillus globigi, Bacillus halodurans, Bacillus azotofixans, Bacillus azotoformans, Pseudomonas flourescens, Pseudomonas aureofaciens, Sacxharomyces cerevisiae, Arthrobacter species, flavobacterium species, aspergillus species or tridoderma species.Preferred Shape: (I) is preferably made in the shape of a golf ball, brick, donut, fish or a large golf tee.Preferred Natural Water: The natural waters are a moving water source, still water having a large surface area, deep water and/or a deep water with a large surface area containing organic pollutant such as organic plant residue or particles. EXAMPLE - A solid form composition was prepared as follows: 1x10power5 spores/g of each Bacillus such as Bacillus Licheniformis, Sutilis, Sphericus, Megasterium and Thurorgensis were taken and mixed with microcrystalline amylose (90), leucine, sodium starch glycolate (3%), glucose (1%), yeast extract (1%) and starch (0.5%), and were compressed in a golf ball shaped mold and dried. The golf ball shaped solid composition had a weight of 250g.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - AGRICULTURE - Preferred Method: The base may be concrete, graded soil or is in the form of a concrete slab. The mixture is in the form of alternating layers of aerobic and anaerobic materials, which may be in a range of 3:1 - 1:3, preferably 2:1. The method also involves confining a portion of the peripheral sides with a solid wall, preferably a vertically standing concrete wall, which may be concave or arcuate. Additional heaps can be further formed adjacent to the original heap, and serially forming a cavity in each of the heaps. Steps (b-g) of the process are then repeated on the added heap. The method further comprises admixing the anaerobic material with a bulking agent of an organic material to create air spaces and passages within the aerobic material to promote aeration and enhance aerobic composition. The bulking agent may comprise straw, wood chips or similar organic materials effective for promoting aeration. The aerobic and anaerobic materials may be particulated prior to forming the mixture. EXAMPLE - No example given.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Method: The Fischer-Tropsch synthesis a low temperature Fischer-Tropsch synthesis, conducted at 210-275degreesC, preferably 230degreesC and pressure of 20 bar, using a catalyst selected from Fe, Co, Ni and Ru, preferably Co or precipitated Fe. The hydrocracked diesel and naphtha products are produced by selectively hydrocracking the wax. The straight-run diesel and naphtha products are produced by hydrotreating the condensate. The synthesis gas is obtained by coal gasification or by reforming natural gas.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Apparatus: (II) has three fermentation chambers in which each chamber includes an inlet for supplying the provided sludge, an outlet for discharging the sludge, and a barrier for controlling overflow when a semi-fermented sludge achieves a certain height. Each of (II) are arranged one chamber above another. The inlet of the uppermost chamber of (II) is for receiving the mixed sewage, sludge and fermented barnyard manure from (IV) and the outlet is arranged to align with the inlet of the second fermentation chamber which is below the first chamber. The outlet of the second chamber is again arranged to align with the inlet of a third fermentation chamber immediately below the second chamber to transfer the sludge mixture to the third chamber. Finally, the outlet of the third chamber is for discharging the manufactured barnyard manure. (I) is provided with a heat exchanger connected to the discharging hole by a nose for an cooling air exiting from (I) by air and water. The first sucking member sends the air to the inhalation hole through another connecting nose and a condensing water chamber. The heat exchanger also supplies fresh air to each inlet of (II). (II) is provided with a second sucking member for sucking air from each outlet and sending the air to an air homogenizer and a biological deodorization tower to deodorize the air.Preferred Process: The drying step changes the moisture content of sludge and sewage from 75 - 85 to 65%. During the mixing step the barnyard manure and dry sludge are in a ratio of 6:4 and the moisture content is 57% of the sewage and sludge. The fermenting step occurs at 45 - 65 degrees Celsius. The method further includes a step of operating a heater if the temperature drops below 40 degrees Celsius in order to maintain the temperature between 45 - 65 degrees Celsius. EXAMPLE - None given.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Method: The conversion of tetrachloroethylene to trichloroethylene is followed by inoculation of another microorganism under aerobic conditions so that decomposition (Ib) of trichloroethylene is carried out. The anaerobic condition is changed to aerobic condition by adding hydrogen-peroxide (HP) (30 volume %) so that ratio of HP to water or soil is made up to 0.5 volume %.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOLOGY - The microorganism used for (Ia) is a long or short bacillus or a coccus of the microorganism group PCE-KS-001 (FERMP-16986) and for (Ib) is Ralstonia eutropha. SPECIFIC MICROORGANISMS - In (Ia) PCE-KS-001 (FERMP-16986) is used (claimed).    EXAMPLE - PCE-KS-001 is cultured on an inorganic medium under anaerobic conditions and tetrachloroethylene added to the culture solution so that final concentration was 1-160 mg/l. The gaseous phase was analyzed by a gas chromatography apparatus with an ECD (not defined) detector. The dechlorination of tetrachloroethylene was carried out in about 6 days. The gas chromatogram showed conversion of tetrachloroethylene to trichloroethylene.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Process: The temperature of the water during aerobic decomposition is set to 18-35degreesC and phosphoric acid compound as nutrition agent is added during decomposition.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Apparatus: The temperature controller (8) to maintain the temperature and nutrition agent supplier (18) in the reaction vessel are provided. EXAMPLE - A waste liquid containing 15 weight% (wt.%) of caustic soda, 20 wt.% of triethanolamine, 50 wt.% of water and 15 wt.% of additives was supplied to reaction vessel. pH was adjusted to 7 using sulfuric acid and 40 liters of activated sludge was supplied. The mixture was aerated and 20 cm3 of phosphoric acid was added as nutrition agent. The chemical oxygen demand (COD) of the processed waste liquid was determined. COD values of the initial liquid was 6000 mg/l and after 1 day reduced to 50% and after 11 days reduced to 245 mg/l.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - TEXTILES AND PAPER - The bin may be formed from corrugated card material or fiber board material.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The bin is preferably formed from a biodegradable plastics material.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Components: The fluorinated oil includes compounds of the formula CF3CF2CF2O-(CF(CF3)CF2-O-)nCF2CF3, CF3O-(CF(CF3)CF2-O-)y-(CF2-O)mCF3, CF3O-(CF2CF2-O-)z-(CF2-O-)pCF3, or CF3CF2CF2-O-(CF2CF2CF2-O-)qCF2CF3; halocarbons containing the -(CF2CFCl)r- repeating group; or their combinations.n = 0-60;y, z, p, q = 0-60;r = 2-10The fluorinated oil may be of formula F(CF(CF3)CF2O)nCF2CF3.n = 10-60The fluorinated component is methoxy-nonafluorobutane or decafluoropentane. It may also include 4-10C fluorinated alkanes, fluorinated ether of formula R1OR2, or their combinations.R1 and R2 = 1-4C fluorinated alkylThe propellant includes isobutane, dimethylether, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, carbon dioxide, or their combinations. Preferred Composition: The ratio of fluorinated oil to fluorinated component is 1:2-1:2.8. The composition further comprises an oil additive including thermal stabilizers, lubricity modifiers, corrosion inhibitors, anti-wear and extreme pressure agents, oxidation inhibitors, viscosity modifiers, stabilizers, or their combinations. It is preferably non-flammable or non-combustible, and is in a stable single phase. EXAMPLE - A composition comprising 19 g KRYTOX GPL-101 fluorinated oil, 150 g VERTREL XF decafluoropentane, and 58 g A031 propellant was prepared and packaged in conventional aerosol containers, and sprayed onto a metal substrate from a distance of 12 at room temperature. Experiments were conducted to measure the temperature drop for the composition. The results showed that the composition was extremely effective, exhibiting excellent flowability, no icing, and good film. Temperature drop of the metal substrate before and after spray was significantly reduced.
EXAMPLE - Polylactic acid (100 pts.) and epoxidised 1,4-polyisoprene (10 pts.) were kneaded to prepare a biodegradable material composition. It had (1)breaking extension of 291 % and (2) Izod impact strength of 3.4 kg cm/cm. On the other hand, the polylactic acid had (1) 6 % and (2) 2.9 kg cm/cm.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOTECHNOLOGY - Preferred Composition: (I) comprises a synergistic mixture of the two bacterial strains present in equal proportions.Preferred Method: (II) further involves storing the pellet obtained in (l) at 1-4 degrees C. The medium used in (d) is TSB modified by removal of papaic digest of soybean meal or nutrient broth modified by addition of K2HPO4 and changing the amount of ingredients. The acid producing bacterial strains identified in (i) are Bacillus alkalophilus and Bacillus sp.. EXAMPLE - Acclimatized and lyophilized mixed bacterial powder of Bacillus alkalophilus and Bacillus sp. were reconstituted in 50 ml triple distilled water and used for neutralization of alkaline waste-water of textile industry. 10% of mixed reconstituted bacterial suspension was added in waste-water containing 1% glucose and incubated at 37 degrees C for 7 days. Acid production by the microbial composition was observed after 7 days of incubation period. The results showed that the original pH of the waste-water was significantly decreased at regular time intervals.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Method: The product gas is injected into a natural-gas pipeline system and is delivered to consumers. The hydrogasification reactor is operated at 500-1500, preferably 750-850degreesC and at 15-200, preferably 20-40 bar. Carbon dioxide is introduced as a carrier gas into the biomass or the fossil fuels to inject these into the hydrogasification reactor. The amount of hydrogen fed to the hydrogasification reactor is controlled in such a way that the hydrogasificatiion in the hydrogasification reactor proceeds at least autothermally. The hydrogasification reactor is fed with 50-125 mol.% of hydrogen per kg of moisture-free biomass. The heat produced in the methanation reactor is supplied to a steam generator. The hydrogen is formed from natural gas by pyrolysis in a plasma reactor.Preferred Property: The product gas (SNG) has a calorific value, which matches than that of the natural gas. EXAMPLE - None given.
EXAMPLE - The shaft of the mixing worm comprises a hollow shaft (5) having bottom portion with hole for supplying air into the bottom portion of the composting mass. Fan(s) is/are provided for supplying air into the shaft and through the air hole into a composting mass. The bottom end of the mixing worms has a replaceable durable element (6) which travel along the surface of a bed for a flat bed compost mattress. The apparatus can be towable by a vehicle, e.g. tractor, or self-propelled.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Materials: The first component comprises a 4-10C fluorinated alkane and/or a fluorinated ether of formula (I):R1, R2 = 1-4C alkyl; most preferably methoxy-nonafluorobutane.The second component comprises a fluorinated benzene compound, preferably benzotrifluoride, p-chlorobenzotrifluoride, dichlorobenzotrifluoride, trifluorotoluene or a combination of these.The third component is an alkane of formula (II):n = 2-50.The composition may further comprise: an aerosol propellant; and a fluorinated oil, preferably a perfluoropolyether oil.Preferred Composition: The composition comprises: at least 25 wt.% preferably 25-60 wt.% of the first fluorinated component; 5-50 wt.%, preferably 5-30 wt.% of the second fluorinated component; and at least 2 wt.% alkane. EXAMPLE - A solvent delivery vehicle for fluorinated oils comprised: 45 wt.% methoxy-nonafluorobutane; 25 wt.% benzotrifluoride; and 35 wt.% hexane (95-99% n-hexane).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Blowing Agent: The blowing agent is ethylene or ethane.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Blowing Agent: The blowing agent is carbon dioxide (CO2), argon, nitrogen gas, or sulfur hexafluoride.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Component: The microcellular foams has a cell size of 0.1-100 microns. The polymer is a thermoplastic amorphous or thermoplastic semicrystalline polymer. It is preferably poly methylmethacrylate (PMMA), polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG) or polycarbonate.Preferred Method: A selected portion of the surface layer is foamed and the remainder is left unfoamed.Preferred Condition: The polymer is exposed at the blowing agent at 22-58 atm and at -0.2 to 24 degrees C for 24-48 h. The compressive stress is 130-320 atm at 20-24 degrees C for 30 s. Preferred Property: The solubility of CO2 in PMMA is 22.4 wt.%, in PETG is 12 wt.% and in polycarbonate is 6 wt.%. EXAMPLE - PMMA sheets (2.72 mm thick) were placed in a pressure vessel and exposed to CO2 under 34 atm at -0.2 degrees C for 24 h. The solubility of CO2 in the polymer was measured to be 22.4 wt.%. After slowly depressurizing, the vessel was opened and the polymer sheets containing dissolved CO2 was taken out. A portion of the sheet was then compressed at 20-350 atm in the press at room temperature. When the applied stress was in 130-270 atm, nucleation, followed by foaming, occurred within one to a few seconds throughout the stressed portion while the unstressed portion remained unfoamed for 1.5 min.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Process: The OW is supplied in a fixed direction and the waste is fermented in a piston flow type fermenter.
EXAMPLE - None given.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Waste: Waste nitric acid is the waste liquid generated during nitric acid surface treatment of substrate. Waste organic substance is the waste gas of organic solvent generated during coating of substrate. The waste organic solvent generated during cleaning of coated layer and residual liquor are subjected to denitrification process. EXAMPLE - Waste nitric acid on an aluminum support was subjected to neutralization by caustic soda in a neutralization treatment tank. Supernatent liquid after neutralization was fed to denitrification tank, where nitrate ion concentration after reduction was 10 ppm. Coating layer formed by coating 10% of coating liquid and 50% each of methyl ethyl ketone and methanol (organic solvents) on the substrate was dried at 100 degrees C. Waste gas (containing 2500 ppm of methanol and MEK) generated during drying was fed to the denitrification tank, where the concentration of waste gas after denitrification was 56 ppm.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Method: The gas is warmed or cooled gas.Preferred Device: (II) has a mechanism for the conversion process and a device for removing the unconverted organic material.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOTECHNOLOGY - Preferred Composition: The enzyme mixture preferably provides 10 - 30 % cellulase activity, 5 - 30 % protease activity and 50 - 80 % hemicellulase (beta-glucanase and endo-xyalanase) activity. The surfactants are biodegradable. The degradation promoters are iron, cobalt or nickel salts, or methanol. The cellulase is preferably a Trichoderma viride product with relative cellulase, beta-glucanase, endo-xyalanase, protease and amyloglucosidase activities of 15,000, 70,000, 11,000, 3500 and 1000 U/ml, respectively. EXAMPLE - No relevant example is given.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred embodiment: The fuel comprises hydrogen gas. The fuel cell assembly further comprises at least one membrane hydration enhancement zone comprising an uncatalyzed area of the membrane interposed between hydrophilic gas diffusion layers. The membrane hydration enhancement zone comprises deionized water and gas reactant streams directed over opposite sides of the ion-exchange membrane. At least one surface of the membrane is directly adjacent to a flow field plate surface. The reactant stream flows are strategically directed through the enhancement zone to maximize water vapor transfer between the reactant stream flows.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Solid Material: The solid material in the decomposition promoter is ball shape ceramic having small perforations on its surface, to accommodate the decomposing bacteria. The ceramic material is preferably composed of the chemical substance.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Apparatus: The reaction vessel decomposes the introduced process medium by a microorganism. The reaction vessel also contains a moisture content meter (9) to measure the moisture content and a stirrer (7). The stirrer is connected to a drive motor through a stirring torque detector (8), and with a stirring control apparatus which controls the drive motor based on the signal from (D), a stirring torque detector or a moisture content meter. The APC controls the quantity of the air flow from the blower provided to any one of the intake or exhaust gas line, based on the signal from moisture content meter.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Starting Material: The fermentation residues contain at least 40% inorganic substances (dry solids basis), including heavy metals and alkaline earth metal halides, especially lead, cadmium, chromium, copper, nickel, mercury, zinc, sodium chloride and/or potassium chloride, as well as inorganic phosphates and nitrogen compounds.Preferred Process: The starting material is first conditioned (preferably pasteurized at 50 - 90degreesC, especially 70degreesC, for 0.5 - 3 hours, especially 1 hour) and then fermented with Basidiomycete or Ascomycete fungi, especially Chaetomium cellulolyticum, while stirring and aerating (preferably at a rate of 5 - 90, especially 40, fermenter volumes per hour) at 35 - 60degreesC and pH 5.0 - 8.5. The solids content of the fermentation mixture is 5 - 30 weight%, especially 10 - 20 weight%. EXAMPLE - A residue remaining after treating hotel kitchen waste with sewage sludge and processing the product in a methane digester was inoculated with 1-2 g/l Chaetomium cellulolyticum (ATCC 32319) and stirred and aerated for 28 days. This reduced low-molecular water-soluble substances by 33%, lipids by 44%, pectins, hemicellulose and phosphate by 22%, cellulose by 43%, lignin and sodium humate by 45%, and insoluble organic substances by 28%.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: The bifunctional material comprises an active component selected from noble metals or transition metals at 0.5-15 wt. %. It comprises a support selected from alumina, titania, silica, ceria or their mixtures with a surface area of 20-300 m2/g. It comprises a substrate selected from cordierite, alumina, zirconia or silicon carbide.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Method: The method preferably comprises sequentially channeling an initial amount of reformate into reactors comprising bifunctional material, chemisorbing carbon monoxide such that chemisorption capacity of material is reduced, passing a pre-heated oxidizing gas sequentially through the reactors, converting carbon monoxide to carbon dioxide, and regenerating the chemisorption capacity of the material in the reactor.Preferred System: The CO removal system further comprises a management system that controls fuel and catalytic processors. EXAMPLE - Adsorbent/catalyst with 6 wt. % Pt over Al2O3 was prepared as described in Heterogeneous Catalysis in Industrial Practice, by Charles N. Satterfield, McGraw-Hill, New York, 1991. It was calcined at 250-500 degreesC and reduced in hydrogen at 200-450 degreesC. 3.22 g adsorbent was packed into an adsorption-catalytic oxidation (ACO) bed. Synthetic reformate mixture having 123 ppm CO, 19.59% carbon dioxide (CO2), 37.06% hydrogen, 20% water and balance nitrogen were channeled through the ACO reactor at 80 degreesC at 2 L/min. During adsorption cycle, CO in reformate was completely removed until reactor was saturated. The level profile of CO from 100-750 s showed a thorough adsorption of CO by Pt/Al2O3 catalyst. Steady rise in CO levels from 750-1200 s revealed that bifunctional material's adsorption capacity was reduced. Hot air was introduced at 1200 s after near complete breakthrough of CO. Robust formation of CO2 at 1450 s indicated instantaneous CO oxidation.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Materials: The two catalytic materials comprise a metal component from noble metals and/or transitional metals.Preferred Support: The support is carbon black, titanium nitride, titanium aluminum nitride or tungsten carbide.Preferred Composition: The metal component is 0.1-5 mg/cm2 and the support is 2-70 wt.%.Preferred Properties: The support has a surface area of 5-100 m2/g and dispersion coefficient of 5-100%.Preferred Process: The step of producing an electrical current occurs before the electrode catalytic material saturated with CO. The step of producing an electrical current occurs galvanically or electrolytically. The processors are electrically connected in series and parallel pattern. The processors are stacked in modules and electrically connected in series in one of the modules, which is flow connected in parallel. The first portion comprises an anode cell and the second portion comprises a cathode cell.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOTECHNOLOGY - Preferred Method: The preferred bacteria in the tank can be the same or different to those in the organic matter. The minor element is manganese and the bacterial activator is especially a sugar, sulfate, phosphate or urea, and can be added manually or mechanically. The agitation in the tank can be by mechanical or hydraulic means. The system can be installed up- or downstream of existing treatment equipment. EXAMPLE - No example given.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INSTRUMENTATION AND TESTING - Preferred Device: (II) is integral with (I) and includes a recess which depends downwardly from (I) and into which worm juice may flow under the influence of gravity. (I) is provided with legs and is a unitary molding of plastic material. Apparatus also includes device for preventing the entry of soil or other solid material into (II) and device for drawing worm juice off from (II). The device for drawing is tapping unit which is in communication with the recess. Apparatus further includes an open-bottomed bin mountable on (I) so that (I) forms a bottom to the bin. Apparatus is described with reference to figure 1 to 6 as given in the specification.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - The shredder comprises a multi-toothed rotary shredding mechanism configured to produce shreds 1 x 1 x 3 inches size. The infeed section (100), drum section and the process control system are mounted on a base frame (10) which is leveled by adjustable legs (12). The closed compost container is closedly coupled to the back end of the drum section, while providing limited venting capability at the point of coupling (410).The apparatus also includes a carbon dioxide sensor located near the input end and communicating with the controller. The first and second chambers include a structure for tumbling materials in process without contributing to forward advancement of materials towards the discharge end. The operator station has a temperature indicator, a switch for engaging shredder, and a switch for engaging the rotation.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Condition: The pressure of the recombined hydrogen is greater than both of the ambient and feed pressures. Preferred Method: The method also includes (i) reversing the voltage across the membrane assembly so that carbon compounds are desorbed from the anode; (ii) removing the contaminated stream from the cell as effluent stream and introducing it to the anode of a second cell; and (iii) repeating steps (c) and (d) to form additional hydrogen. The two electrochemical cells, which are operated at different current densities, form a bipolar cell stack.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Condition: The voltage is 1.5 volts or less.
EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT, the raw feed gas in stream (1201) is run countercurrent to the permeate stream (1217), in heat exchanger (1202). Cooled stream (1203) is further chilled by the expanded residue stream (1219), in heat exchanger (1204). Chilled stream, (1205), passes to separator (1206), from which condensed liquid bottoms stream (1207), enriched in C3+ hydrocarbons is withdrawn. The pressure of stream (1207) is let down from 1,000 psia to 100 psia through expansion valve (1208) and expanded stream (1209) is passed into flash tank (1211). The light gases flashed from this tank as overhead stream are fed into compressor (1222) and form part of the fuel gas product.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred pH: During fermentation the optimum of pH 2-4, suitable for enzyme (the enzyme is produced by the acid-resistant protein utilization microorganism) activity is maintained. Preferred Organism: The organism is an acid-resistant protein utilizing microorganism. SPECIFIC MICROORGANISMS - The acid-resistant protein utilization microorganism is X-Proteobacteria strain MB8 (FERMP-16948) and Burkholderia strain MB11 (FERMP-16949).    EXAMPLE - The decomposition promotion effect was studied on garbage comprising 77.6% moisture with carbon to nitrogen ratio of 12.4 and pH 4.76. Two test samples were prepared by inoculating X-Proteobacteria strain MB8 or Burkholderia strain MB11 to 200g (moist weight) of kitchen garbage and was transferred to 150 g (dry weight) reaction medium (Japanese cedar sawdust) in a 3 liter capacity fermenter. The water content was adjusted to 55%. Aeration was adjusted to 0.5 liters/minute. The temperature and carbon dioxide concentration of exhaust gas were monitored continuously. The decomposition effect was compared with Bacillus subtilis (BN 1001). A clear decomposition promotion effect with increased carbon dioxide concentration and heat of decomposition was observed in the test.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Device: A central chamber is positioned at the upper end and at the edge of the compost bin. The air holes connecting the chambers are closable. The bin is in a circular or rectangular form. Flower tubs are positioned around the bin to conceal it.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred waste disposal. The carbonized waste is cooled (22) using an inert gas stream comprising nitrogen (68). The kiln is a rotatably mounted spiral feed kiln. It has three sections; a preheater (16), an intermediate heating section (20) and a primary heating section (18). The temperature of the intermediate section is at least 1000 degrees F and the primary heater is at a temperature of at least 1250 degrees F. The helium and hydrogen are recovered in a recirculation unit (66).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Apparatus: The dual stream valve includes a housing having first and second side and an interior cavity between them. The first side has a single inlet, the second side having the outlets. A slide gate (13), with a flow aperture, is positioned in the cavity, such that all flow through the housing must pass through it to adjust the relative flow of exhaust gases through the outlets. When the slide gate is slid in a first direction all the flow through the aperture is directed through the first outlet, when the slide gate is slid in a second direction all the flow through the aperture is directed through the second outlet, and when the slide gate is maintained in a central position the flow through the flow aperture is directed through both outlets. Alternatively, a rotary gate is positioned within the housing.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - AGRICULTURE - Humification uses olive kernel (85-95 wt.%), ground leaves and small olive branches (3-13 wt.%) and urea (2 wt.%). Stabilization of moisture levels to 32-40% and of temperature to 60-65degreesC completes the process in 6 days. The composted material is matured in bags with a humidity level of 23-32% for 6 weeks. The amount of olive kernel is greater than 10 % of the total weight of the compost. EXAMPLE - Olive kernels (900 kg), ground leaves (80 kg) and small olive branches (upto 1 mm thick) and urea (20 kg) were placed in a bioreactor. The humidity level was stabilized by adding chlorine-free water to 36%. The mixture was homogenized by rotating the bioreactor at a rate of 10 revolutions/minute for 10 minutes and then it was left. Within 20 hours, the temperature had risen to 65degreesC. Every 12 hours for the first 72 hours, humidity was measured to maintain it at 36%. Within 5 days, composting was complete and the product was placed in 40 l plastic bags. After 40 days, the material was completely humified and the final product was a stabilized soil-improving organic humic fertilizer completely deprived of phenols which are present in olive kernels.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - The media pellet (38) has a specific gravity of 0.91- 0.95 with at least one surface having ridges and grooves. The grooves are 1 mm in width and 1 mm in depth. The ridges are greater than 1 mm to prevent interlocking with other pellets. The pellet has a unit weight of 0.05-0.07 g.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOLOGY - Preferred Microorganism - The microorganism which degrades the sludge is a bacteria Actinomyces or a wood-rotting fungi.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - 5-15% of ammonium sulfate and rice bran are added for the proliferation of microorganism and for processing the fermentation process.    PAPER - Preferred Sludge: The sludge of paper manufacturing process contains raw material rich in nitrogen and carbon such as lignin, cellulose and foundry ash of vegetable fiber along with 65-70% water conte
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Compounds: Along with resins carbon black and/or barium, zeolite, calcium carbonate slaked lime or gypsum are added. Preferred Characteristics: The porous microparticle resin is hollow and cylindrical. The obtained material is made in the form of a polygon, sphere or multiple cylinders. An ion-exchange resin may be used along with the synthetic degradable resin material.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Arrangement: Separate inlets are provided for supplying aqueous solution containing hydrocarbon and water, and hydrocarbon fuel . A spraying nozzle mixes the aqueous solution and the fuel and is connected selectively. An evaporator is configured in which water vapor is mixed with the fuel to be modified and combustor supplies heat of combustion to the evaporator for evaporation. The fuel to be modified is supplied to the evaporator through an injector (48).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Arrangement: Dough-nut shaped modification catalyst layers are arranged adjacent to each other in the direction orthogonal to the flow direction of the heating gas. A gas passage way formation means (86) is configured between the catalyst layers. The distributor functions based on the flow state of the heating gas. The gas introduction holes are provided in the inner wall which communicates with the modifying chamber along the periphery. The double layered wall in the flow path chamber has an aperture which communicates with the gas introduction hole. A feed hopper (60) for supplying the heating gas into the aperture from the exterior of the flow path chamber is provided in the outer wall. The modifying chamber is a horizontal structure which supplies heating gas in the horizontal direction.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - : Preferred Design: The adjacent arrangement of the catalyst layer is performed along the flow direction of the gas. Gas passage bypasses the catalyst layers. Gas supply flow path (68) is formed along the diameter of the modification catalyst and cone like cover portion (86) is formed at the center of the bifurcated modification catalyst layer. The modification catalyst layer and combustion mechanism (44) are placed concentric to each other. The combustion mechanism gas injects the supplying fuel to the combustion chamber (46) and air nozzle (52) for deriving air from the surrounding to the injector.
NUCLEAR POWER - Preferred reactor: The reactor includes an injector communicating the chamber to inject at least a portion of the O2 into the chamber for mixing with the streams exiting from the upstream segme
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Apparatus: The composting container has a frame (3) with pick-up points (4) at the top. The pick-up points (4) interlock with a frame suspended by an overhead hoist (15). The overhead control mechanism works under a vertical force.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Process: The fermented suspension is passed to a second closed reactor, where intensive mixing and airing occurs for 2 - 7 days. Air released from the second reactor is subjected to biological or chemical cleaning which frees it from ammonia and other unpleasant smells. Water drained from the second reactor is returned to the first-stage for re-use.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Process: The landfill gases are processed e.g. by physical separation methods and the biogases are subjected by physical or physical-chemical treatments to give a methane-containing main product resembling natural gas which can be used for energy generation or as synthesis gas in catalytic chemical synthesis operations, polymerisation, esterification, etherification or partial halogenation, and a CO2-rich by-product which may also contain some methane. Methane in the by-product may be utilised as an energy source, e.g. by combustion on hot metal wires or converted microbially into methanol useful as a fuel. Methane contents of less than 35 % may be burned off on a hot surface such as a sandbed. The heat generated may be used e.g. to heat greenhouses and for heated stores with a controlled atmosphere. EXAMPLE - No relevant example given.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOTECHNOLOGY - Preferred Materials: The cells are human leukocytes derived from haematopoietic stem cells and subsequent differentiation. The cell surface receptors are growth factor or cytokine receptors, e.g. gamma-interferon receptor, interleukin-6 or 2 receptor, tumour necrosis factor-alpha or beta receptor. Alternatively, the cells are hepatocytes which release acute-phase proteins or adsorb immuno-modulating molecules. Alternatively, the cells are endothelial cells, which release or adsorb immuno-modulating molecules. Alternatively, a combination of the three cells types can be used. The immuno-modulatory molecules are growth factors or cytokines, especially interleukins or interferons. Alternatively, the molecules are endotoxins, especially lipopolysaccharides from Gram negative bacteria.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Method: The batches are processed in a tunnel composting plant as above where both of the principal phases of the processing of each batch, i.e. composting and separate drying, are carried out in the same composting tunnel, by directing either fresh air and/or circulation air in an optional ratio into the composting tunnel according to the process being carried out at the time. The fresh air is heated using the heat available from the scrubber. The first principal phase (mechanical composting) is divided into a short start-up phase and a process phase, with the batch temperature in the start-up phase being raised for a short time to 60-70degreesC, by feeding the batch with only with the plant's warm circulation air, and the batch being fed in the process phase with both fresh air and circulation air, to maintain a level temperature of 50degreesC. The second principal phase (mechanical drying) takes place by leading only heated fresh air to the batch. The mixed sludge, comprising (% total solids): fiber sludge (35-70), bio-sludge (15-45) from a biological treatment plant and possibly other sludges, is composted with a support material (less than 10% total solids). The thermal drying in the second phase is carried out mainly by using a separate air dryer.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Plant: The circulation air duct (19) is connected to the main exhaust duct (18) leading to the gas scrubber and that the plant includes an auxiliary exhaust duct (18') bypassing the gas scrubber and duct dampers (14) for connecting the air exhaust of each composting tunnel to the main and the auxiliary exhaust duct in an optional ratio.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Method: The content of organic sulfur is less than 10 ppm based on the sulfur amount by weight. The support has a component comprising zirconia and/or hydrated zirconia, and a component comprising alumina and/or hydrated alumina. The acid catalyst contains at least one metal component selected from Groups 8, 9 and 10.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Method: The atomizing section is operable to produce a fuel steam mixture in which atomized fuel droplets form from an annular film which surrounds a core of steam. The fuel film moves at a velocity of about one half that of the steam core, the respective velocities of each being 15-153 m/s. The fuel droplets have a diameter of less than 10 microns. The superheated vaporizing stream is steam or steam and air and is preferably at a temperature of about 540 degreesC. The fuel reformer is an autothermal reformer.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Apparatus: The ISBR includes means for introducing a solution containing contaminant, means for introducing a microbial nutrient solution, means for introducing oxygen and means for introducing a co-metabolism compound into the ISBR and means for removing aqueous phase from the ISBR. The apparatus also comprises a biofilter operatively connected to the gas phase in the top portion of the ISBR and including immobilized biomass for biodegradation of pollutant within the gas phase. The immobilized soil contains a microbial culture adapted for the biodegradation of trichloroethylene (TCE). Preferred Process: The gas phase collected from the top portion of the ISBR is recirculated to the bottom portion of the aeration side to effect fluid circulation around the soil matrix. The gas phase collected from the top portion is subjected to a downstream biofiltration process. The ISBR is operated in series with other ISBRs. EXAMPLE - Trichloroethylene demineralization experiments were performed using either biomass from ISBR or samples of biofilter bed. Depending on conditions both produced more than 50% of theoretical CO2 production showing that complete mineralization is possible with either ISBR or biofilter mass, singularly or in combination.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The covering dome is made preferably made of polyethylene, polypropylene or polyvinyl chloride.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Process: The contact is carried out at 40-200 degrees C and at a pressure to retain the petroleum gas stream in the liquid state. The calixarene complexing agent, preferably solid, is immobilzed on an inert support.Preferred Gas: The LPG comprises propane, (iso)butane, ethane, propylene, butene and/or pentane.Preferred Agent: The calixarene complexing agent is preferably a para-substituted calix(4)arene, or a compound of formula (I).R1-3+n = H, prim. 1-20C alkyl, sec. 3-20C alkyl, tert. 4-20C alkyl, 1-20C alkoxy, 1-20C thioalkyl, 6-20C aryl(oxy), nitro, halo or CH2NR3 where R1= 1-20C alkyl;X1-3+n = H, OH, SH, 1-20C alkoxy, 1-20C thioalkyl, 6-20C aryloxy, OC(O) 1-20C alkyl, or 2-20C alkenyloxy; andn = 1-5, preferably 4. SPECIFIC COMPOUNDS - The calixarene complexing agent is para-tert.-butyl-calix(4)arene.    EXAMPLE - Para-tert.-butylcalix(4)arene (76.914 mg) was weighed in a boat and exposed to carbonyl sulfide at 165 psi for 1 hour. The boat was removed and placed on an analytical balance to measure the weight loss as a function of time. Initially, the mass of the exposed p-t-butylcalix(4)arene was 109 mg, indicating that the capacity for carbonyl sulfide uptake was significant. The carbonyl sulfide has an uptake factor of 0.41 meant that for every gram of p-t-butylcalix(4)arene that was exposed, 0.4 1g of carbonyl sulfide was complexed. Over 130 minutes, the uptake factor fell to 0.12, corresponding to the formation of a 1:1 complex of carbonyl sulfide/p-t-butylcalix(4)arene.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Method: The separation is carried out in a vibrating shaker with two inclined screens, with mesh sizes of 400 and 100 microns, one above the other.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INSTRUMENTATION AND TESTING - Preferred Features: The biologically active substance (5) comprises moist waste paper granules activated by a biological agent.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INSTRUMENTATION AND TESTING - Preferred Components: The gas sensitive material has at least two electrodes, a temperature sensor and a heater. Preferred Method: The measuring step comprises measuring the resistance, capacitance and impedance of the sensor.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Gas: The gas is hydrogen, ammonia, carbon monoxide or hydrogen sulfide.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Gas: The gas is ethene, propane or methane. EXAMPLE - None given.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Matter: The organic matter includes sewage sludge or petroleum hydrocarbon. Preferred Composition: The inner core of the tablets further contains binder including paraffin, gelatin, or dextrose. The outer layer of the tablets further contains at least one additive including enzymes preferably protein kinases, buffering agents, sugars preferably dextrose, or oxidation catalysts.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Agents: The buffering agents include magnesium carbonate, acetates, borates, phosphates, citric acid, or sulfamic acid. Preferred Catalyst: The oxidation catalyst is manganese dioxide. Preferred Composition: The tablets further contain a weak acid, preferably acetic acid, to achieve the desired pH level. The colorant in the outer layer of the tablets is a mixture of acid blue and acid yellow.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOLOGY - Preferred Microorganism: The live microorganism strain in the inner-core of the tablets includes bacterial genera Bacillus, Sporolactobacillus, Sporosarcina, Sphaerotilus, Beggiatoa, or Micrococcas; or yeast genera Saccharomyces, Arthobacter, Flavobacterium, Pseudomonas, Nitrosomas, nitrobacter, Rhizomas, Rhizobium, Rhizobacter, Azoarcus, or Ralstonia.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Catalyst: The oxide of the other element or oxides of the other elements in the mixed oxide of which they are formed ranges from 0.5-30 wt.%t. The element of group 13 is aluminum. The alumina in the mixed oxide is 0.5-8 wt.%.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - Preferred Stack: The stack further comprises:(a) a pair of end plates on opposite sides of the cell laminate, which apply a compressive force to the respective unit cells of the laminate in a laminating direction;(b) a pair of current collectors that collect electricity of the respective unit cells, each collector having a specific part that pierces the end plate; and(c) a pair of insulating members, each member being interposed between the current collector and the end plate.The inlet manifold has a cross section gradually decreasing towards a downstream. The outlet manifold has a cross section gradually increasing towards a downstream. The inlet and outlet manifolds are respectively arranged on side faces of cell laminate and in parallel to a laminating direction of the respective unit cells. The manifolds are arranged around periphery of cell laminate, so as to bind the respective unit cells and reduce a contact resistance between adjoining unit cells.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CERAMICS AND GLASS - The walls of the trough are concrete.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Components: The tube and the dividing walls that form the honeycomb structure are made from plastics.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Digester: The digester has a digester tank that is uninsulated or partially insulated. The greenhouse has a side wall (14) defined by uprights (13); a roof (17) defined by beams (16); a glazing skin made of glass or plastics; and an internal lagoon for receiving liquid having an inlet and outlet. The beams supported by a gantry (11) extend between the upright and the digester.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Process: The organic material is separated by thickening, settling, pressing or centrifuging prior to or following digestion of the organic material to obtain an aqueous liquor. This aqueous liquor is placed in the lagoon for purification by cultivating an organism (aquatic plants) e.g. water hyacinths) in or on the liquor or liquid in the lagoon.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Greenhouse: The glazing skin (45) in the greenhouse comprises glass, or plastic, especially polyethylene, glass reinforced polyester or polyvinyl chloride.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: The azeotropic composition preferably consists of 70-99 wt. % of difluoromethane and 1-30 wt. % of propylene or 60-99 wt. % of difluoromethane and 1-40 wt. % of cyclopropane.The composition, essentially containing 93.8 wt. % of difluoromethane and 6.2 wt. % of isobutane, 81 wt. % of difluoromethane and 19 wt. % of propylene or 85.2 wt. % of difluoromethane and 14.8 wt. % of cyclopropane, has a vapor pressure of 249.6 psia (1721 kPa), 261.5 psia (1803 kPa) or 260.6 psia (1797 kPa), respectively at 25 degreesC. EXAMPLE - An azeotrope-like composition containing 93.8 wt. % of difluoromethane (HFC-32) and 6.2 wt. % of isobutane, having vapor pressure of 249.6 psia (1721 kPa) was charged in a vessel at 25 degreesC. The vapor pressure in the vessel was measured when an equilibrium between the liquid and the vapor above the liquid was attained. The vapor was leaked from the vessel at 25 degreesC until 50 wt. % of the initial charge was evaporated. The vapor pressure of the composition remaining in the vessel was then measured. The vapor pressure of the remaining azeotrope-like composition was found to be the same even after evaporation of 50 wt. % of original composition. The refrigerating capacity of the azeotrope-like composition was also found to be high and was found to be azeotropic.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Reactor: The catalytically active layer (1) of the burner is made of porous material, the catalyst affecting oxidation being enclosed in pores of the burner. Layer (1) forms a support for the catalytic bed of the reformer.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Process: Harvesting the biomass includes harvesting the bacteria as a whole without separating the poly-hydroxy-butyrate or its copolymers from the bacteria following polymerization. Therefore, (II) contains both the bacteria and the polymers and copolymers.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOLOGY - Preferred Bacteria: The bacteria are preferably hydrogentrophs, particularly autotrophic Alcaligenes (especially A. carboxydus, A. hydrogenphilus, A. eutrophus and/or A. ruhlandii).    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Process: In (I), the inorganic carbon oxygen compound is carbon dioxide or carbon monoxide. EXAMPLE - No example given.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Tanks: The tank assembly comprises tanks which share common walls. The tanks are connected in a honeycomb-type configuration.Preferred Biological Oxidation Plant: The tanks in the plant are interconnected using gates or valves (16) to provide several flow paths through the tanks. The tanks are positioned in at least two interconnected side by side rows (12 and 14) with superstructure (18) above the rows of tanks. The plant includes an agitator mechanism (20) secured to the superstructure. The tanks are lined or treated to resist harmful side effects of a medium which is contained in the tanks. The tanks are lined with an acid resisting polymer material. The plant includes a device (22) for feeding a slurry to at least two primary tanks and a device for merging slurry flows from the primary tanks and for directing the merged flow to a further tank for subsequent treatment. EXAMPLE - No example is given.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Process: Prior to step (1), the waste is compressed and crashed into small pieces. Step (1) is carried out at -230 to -270degreesF while the liquefied nitrogen is sprayed for 4-6 minutes evenly around the waste inside the sealed cooling chamber. After step (1), all types of gas formed around the frozen waste is exhausted to the filter unit for ensuring no harmful gas is produced. Step (2) is maintained at 160-190degreesF for at least 2.5 minutes.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - A gas outlet valve is positioned on the cooling chamber that is open for at least one time for 15-30 seconds to automatically suck the gas out from the cooling chamber. The heater source is an ultraviolet (UV) or irradiation (IR) lamp mounted within a lamp box with ventilating holes to transfer heat into the heated chamber.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Support: The polymer support comprises a cleavable linker, a leaving group or an amino group and has 0.5-3.5 meq of the free hydroxy groups per gram of polymer. The cleavable linker, which is attached via an amide, is 4-hydroxymethylphenoxy or 4-(4-methoxyphenyl(hydroxy)methyl)phenoxy. The hydroxy groups are protected by acetyl, benzyl, benzoyl, tri(alkyl)silyl or tetrahydropyranyl. The hydroxypoly(2-4C) alkyleneoxy chain, preferably having 3-5 2-4C alkyleneoxy groups, is hydroxytetraethyleneoxy.Preferred Polymer: The cross-linked polymer is a copolymer of (i) phenylethylene and 4-hydroxyphenylethylene or (ii) phenylethylene and 4-chloromethylphenylethylene. EXAMPLE - 4-Hydroxy polystyrene-mono ether with tetraethylene glycol resin-p-(hydroxymethyl)phenyl ether (PSTEG-Wang resin) (368 mg) was shaken with dichloromethane (20 ml). Fluorenylmethoxycarbonyl (FMOC) isoleucine (1.412 g) was added and the mixture was allowed to stand for 10 minutes. Pyridine (0.33 ml) and 2,6-dichlorobenzoyl chloride (0.57 ml) were added. The mixture was shaken for 24 hours and then filtered. The product was washed with dichloromethane (20 ml), with aqueous tetrahydrofuran (THF) (1:1, 3 X 20 ml), then with THF (3 X 20 ml) and finally with methanol (3 x 20 ml) prior to drying to afford PSTEG-Wang resin coupled to FMOC isoleucine (482 g). The 13C and 1H NMRs for the resin were superior to commercial FMOC isoleucine Wang resin in terms of the clarity of spectra and particularly in the resolution of fine detail.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Components: The dispersant is polymeric, and is a graft copolymer of a poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) and a poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG), with a molar ratio of PAA/PEG units between 50:1 and 3:1.Preferred Process: The change of condition is a change of pH. WIDER DISCLOSURE - Also disclosed is a method for forming and coalescing liquid aphrons.    ACTIVITY - None given.    MECHANISM OF ACTION - Mass transfer increases with increase of interfacial area, for which the dispersant in its surface active form, i.e., hydrophilic groups extended, provides a fine dispersion. On changing the structure of the dispersant to a closed, hydrogen bonded, inactive form, e.g., by change of pH, subsequent separation of the phases is accomplished rapidly.    EXAMPLE - The emulsifier was a 10:1 graft copolymer of methacrylic acid and PEG prepared with H2O2 initiator. A 0.089% solution of copolymer in water was adjusted to pH 3 and placed in a microbubble generator. A foam volume fraction of 64% was achieved, losing only half its volume over 20 minutes. When pH was changed to 7; the foam disappeared completely within 20 seconds.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Method: The hydrolyzing agent is water and hydrolysis is carried out 80-99 degrees Centigrade, preferably about 90 degrees Centigrade, for 1-3 hours. Water is added in an amount sufficient to provide a mixture containing 0.01-40 (preferably 2-6) weight % HT. Optionally, a second hydrolyzing step, preferably employing an acid of formula HX is conducted prior to neutralization.X = I, Br or Cl.Neutralization is carried out by adding a strong base, preferably sodium hydroxide (NaOH), calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2) or potassium hydroxide (KOH), and the TDG and T-OH mixture is neutralized to a pH of at least 7, preferably at least 10.The biodegrading is carried out in a sequencing batch reactor and comprises:(1) mixing activated sludge with the neutralized TDG and T-OH mixture;(2) aerating and agitating the resulting mixture, preferably using a flat blade turbine impeller at 100-150 revolutions per minute, to form a biomass and(3) removing the clarified biodegraded effluent.The biodegrading step is carried out at pH 6-8. EXAMPLE - HT which comprises a mixture of 2,2'-dichlorodiethyl sulfide and bis-(2-(2-chloroethylthio)ethyl)ether, (3.8 wt.%) was reacted with water at 90 degrees Centigrade for 2 hours with vigorous agitation. Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) was added to the product to pH 12, followed by threefold dilution to a total organic carbon (TOC) value of 3727 ppm. The neutralized product was fed to a sequencing batch bioreactor seeded with activated sludge; after equilibration, the bioreactor was operated on 20 day, 15 day and 10 day residence time cycles. Overall TOC removal efficiency was 86.1%.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - The selective membrane used to remove sulfate ions from the liquid stream may be made from a polyamide or a polyimide material.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Process: The reactivation temperature is at least 30 degrees C preferably at least 50 degrees C lower than the isomerization temperature, and reactivation conditions include temperature of 20-200 degrees C, pressure of 300 kPa to 4 MPa and LHSV of 0.5-15 hr-1. Free hydrogen is associated with the hydrogen stream in an amount 0.01 moles per mole of 5+C hydrocarbons to the hydrogen saturation limit. The liquid-phase hydrocarbon comprises 4-7C alkanes and cycloalkanes. The deactivated catalyst comprises less than 0.5 preferably less than 0.1 wt.% carbon. The isomerization conditions include pressure of 100 kPa to 10 MPa and LHSV of 0.2-25 hr-1. The catalyst comprises sulfated support containing oxide(s) and/or hydroxide(s) of Group IVB, preferably of zirconium, and further contains 2.25 wt.% refractory inorganic oxide binder. The platinum group metal is platinum. EXAMPLE - Using pentane in the reactivation of a deactivated isomerization catalyst, a catalyst with initial activity of 2.79 was reactivated to an activity of 2.69 compared with 2.49 for prior art processes.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ELECTRICAL POWER AND ENERGY - The gas-impermeable body comprises a metal, a carbon material or a conductive resin, and can be surface-coated by a corrosion-resistant conductive material selected from at least one of gold, platinum, carbon, titanium, metal oxide, metal nitride and metal nitridePreferably, both the separator and the gas-permeable body are made of metal, and they are constructed by welding.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Compositions: The composition consisting essentially of, by weight, 87 - 41%, preferably 83 -39, more preferably 90 - 50,% of 1,1,2,2,3,3-hexafluoropropane (HFC 236ca) and 13 - 59%, preferably 39 -61, more preferably 10 -50,% of n-butane (R 600). The vapor pressure of the composition at 25 degreesC is 50.1-52.4 psia, preferably 52.7 - 54.0, more preferably 56.0 - 57.9, psia.
EXAMPLE - Fedlot waste from a cattle feedlot was collected in an ordinary waste water treating tank and JSB 98.0 was inoculated to determine the presence of microbial activity. The aeration time was maintained 18 hours/day and dissolved oxygen concentration maintained as high as 2 pp,. It was seen that JSB 98.0 was highluy effective to decrease BOD levels.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - AGRICULTURE - Preferred materials: The peat is wet black peat, wet sphagnum peat, deep dug black peat, dry milled sphagnum peat. Peat having a moisture content of above 85% by weight constitutes at least 10% by weight of the peat blend. Peat having a moisture above 70% by weight constitutes at least 50% by weight of the peat blend
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Apparatus: The means for providing the flow of air comprises a pressure fan for supplying air under pressure to the nozzles and a suction fan for evacuating air from the interior of the vessel. The air supplied is preheated through the pressure fan. There is a balanced flap at the discharge opening of the discharge pipe. The flap is biased to its open position to be maintained in its closed position by the negative pressure in the vessel. The stationary agitators comprise cylindrical rods, which are threaded. The fins are rotatably mounted on the rods and extend along them projecting radially. On one or more wings present on the shaft, there is a baffle having the leading end close to the inside surface of the sidewall of the vessel at the outer end. There is further an inlet in the sidewall, covered by the baffle, when passing by at the rotation of the agitator. WIDER DISCLOSURE - The method for the decomposition of the waste is also disclosed. It comprises shredding of the waste, which is supplied to a space at the bottom. The waste is agitated and mixed in it. Air is passed through the waste and decomposed waste is discharged from the space at the top of the machine.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Filter elements (especially filter baskets and especially filled with gravel) are placed in the openings.The canals are joined, one below the other and are closed at at least 1 end of the decking with removable covers.
EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT, a reformer reforms reformate fuel, which is a mixture of methanol and water, into reformate gas substantially comprising hydrogen and carbon dioxide. The reformer is connected to an anode (15) side of a fuel cell (1), which is used as an energy converter. The reformer comprises a heating portion (3) for heating the reformate fuel, a reforming portion (4) and a carbon monoxide oxidation portion (5). The heating portion generates vapor of the mixture of methanol and water by heating reformate fuel. The heating portion comprises a combustion portion (6) for generating heat for heating reformate fuel, and a vaporizing portion (7) for vaporizing the reformate fuel using the heat generated by the combustion portion. Combustion portion may comprise a burner that causes heat fuel to burn or a catalyst that oxidizes heat fuel. A pump (8) for feeding heat fuel, such as methanol, is connected to the combustion portion via an injector (9). An air feed portion (10) feeds a combustion support gas, such as air, and comprises an air pump. A pump (11) serving as a reformate fuel feed portion for feeding the liquid mixture of methanol and water, is connected to vaporizing portion. Vaporizing portion is coupled to combustion portion so that heat can be transmitted in-between through a heat exchanger (12).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Apparatus: A heat exchanger (7) is attached to the post-combustion chamber (6), in which waste heat (Q) transported with the waste gas (60) from the post-combustion chamber is transferred to a heat carrier, especially water. At least one part of the return line (61) is connected to the heat exchanger. A ventilator (62) is located in the return line (61) between the heat exchanger and feed site. A minimal amount of waste gas is returned to the reforming process, where the hydrocarbons are not completely converted, especially 10-90%.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Apparatus: The gas-permeable structure (40) is a porous pipe made of metallic or ceramic material. The pipe has an open pore structure. The reformer is joined together by stacking elements, which are holders containing catalyst support granules.Preferred Catalyst: The catalyst is Pt, Pd, Ru, Rh, and/or Ni.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Apparatus: The reformer stage (12) forms a current-upstream part of a reaction chamber (1), in which the CO shift stage (10) is integrated as current-downstream part. The catalytic burner unit (3, 8, 9, 11) is formed as a stage for the selective CO oxidation of the reformate product.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOTECHNOLOGY - The narrow upper and lower sides (2a,2b) of the reactor are curved, within upper and lower ends formed by straight sections. A dividing wall (3) is within the reactor, positioned at a gap from all the sides. The reactor has three inlets (4-6) for the fluid phase, and to circulate the contents of the reactor. Each inflow has a control valve (13) to set the volume and to determine whether the carrier materials for the microorganisms in the suspension should be directed more to settling or floating.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Method: The surface is obscured by an object which is part of it, between it and the device. The droplets avoid the object and impinges on the obscured surface. The material of the actuator, its orifice size and shape, diameter of the dip tube and the characteristics of the valve and the formulation in the device are chosen to achieve the droplet charge to mass ratio. This unipolar charge is achieved during actual spraying from the orifice solely from the liquid spray interaction. No internal or external charge induced device is used.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Spray: The aerosol spray device contains an emulsion and the liquid droplets are 5-100 microns in diameter. The device contains an oil phase, an aqueous phase, a surfactant and a propellant. The oil phase is a 9-12C hydrocarbon in amount 2-10% w/w. The surfactant is (poly)glyceryl oleate in amount 0.1-1% w/w. The propellant is 30-40% w/w liquefied petroleum gas. EXAMPLE - Dettox Antibacterial Spray aerosol spray device was charged using high voltage during actuation. This device, containing -1 x 10-4 C/kg charged particles, was sprayed on a transparent plastic containing Serratia marcescens at its center. The film was then placed onto an agar medium and allowed to grow. The growth was photographed and compared to that obtained using an aerosol without the charge. The films obtained with the charged device showed that the bacteria were not present in either the center or the edges and that the spray reached areas not directly in its path. The prior art spray showed dark areas on the edges.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Material: The fermentation, displacement, and gas storage tanks are all made of reinforced plastic sheeting, e.g. polyvinyl chloride sheeting.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - AGRICULTURE - Preferred Method: In (I), the nonpathogenic bacteria used is either Bacillus cereus, B. lentimorbius and/or B. stearothermophilus. The enzyme used is either a protease, amylase and/or lipase. The carrier is perlite formed as granules (which are at least 2 mm in size in each dimension). The concentration of nonpathogenic bacteria is at least 1 x 108 viable bacteria per square foot of litter on the floor of the poultry house. The composition is applied before beginning a poultry growout cycle, and is only applied once per cycle. EXAMPLE - No example given.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Process: The adsorption method used is preferably pressure swing adsorption (PSA). At least 80%, preferably at least 90%, of the 5-8C hydrocarbons are removed from the feed stream using the membrane.Preferred Membrane: The membrane material is selected from silicone rubber, polyamide-polyether block copolymer or a superglassy membrane.Preferred Conditions: The feed stream has a first dew point of 10 degrees C or more at 200 psia. The second dew point at least 20 degrees C lower than the first, preferably at least 40 degrees C lower than the first.Preferred Source of Feed Stream: The feed stream is an off-gas from a hydrotreater, a hydrocracker, a catalytic reformer, an isomerization process, a dealkylation process, a catalytic cracker and/or a coker. EXAMPLE - A feed stream comprising hydrogen (80 vol.%), methane (10 vol.%), 2-4C hydrocarbons (8.5 vol.%) and 5-8C hydrocarbons (1.5 vol.%) had a dew point of 21 degrees C at 50 psia, increased to 48 degrees C at 200 psia. The stream was passed through a silicone rubber membrane to give a residue stream with a 5-8C hydrocarbon content of only 0.29 vol.% This represented a 5-8C hydrocarbon removal of 86% with a hydrogen loss into the permeate stream of about 20%.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Catalyst: The catalyst is sulfated zirconia.Preferred Absorbent: The Adsorbent is a zeolitic molecular sieve.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Process: The controlled variable-heat providing stream is selected from steam and a hot oil. The process further comprises heat exchanging the hydrocarbon-enriched stream, the hydrogen-enriched stream or both, with the reactor effluent. Flashing in a separator drum performs the separation of the reactor effluent in step (c). WIDER DISCLOSURE - Suitable catalysts include solid strong acid catalysts where sulfate and at least one Group VIII metal are supported on a Group III and/or Group IV metal oxide and/or hydroxide. The catalyst is calcined and stabilized.    EXAMPLE - None given.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Mat: The constructed microbial mat is preferably resistant to toxic concentrations of one or more contaminants and is annealed to a support structure, especially a mesh made of shredded coconut hulls or ground corn cobs, a plastic mesh, limestone, glass wool, concrete, wood fiber, corn cob particles, activated charcoal, green filamentous algae, baffles, slowly turning paddles in a waterway and/or bioreactor structures.The organic nutrient substrate is preferably selected from ensiled and non-ensiled vegetation, grass clippings or other flora. The clay is preferably bentonite. EXAMPLE - A constructed microbial mat was produced from ensiled grass clippings (7 g/l) made from fresh cut grass clippings packed into 1 liter jars and allowed to process anaerobically for 20 days at room temperature to the surface of a water column. A microbial mixture (0.1-0.5 g/l each) of Oscillatoria and purple autotrophic bacteria was added. The finished silage was used to enrich the water column to stimulate the microbial bloom and provide a substrate for cyanobacteria attachment at the surface of the water column. The system was illuminated with incandescent lights (60 watt at 25 cm from surface) and partially covered with clear plastic to minimize evaporation. Cyanobacteria spontaneously established dominance in 4-7 days and the microbial mat was allowed 10-15 days to mature. The evaporated water was replaced with tap water. Slime annealed the cyanobacteria layer and the purple autotrophic layers along with the organic nutrient substrate dispersed throughout the layers. Slime was also used to anneal the mat to any support structures present such as coconut mesh or bioreactor materials.
EXAMPLE - In an EMBODIMENT of the process the temperature of the surface is maintained at a temperature which is below the equilibrium vapor pressure temperature of the gas at the chamber pressure for a period of time sufficient for the ice to grow to a desired size against the surface of the compartment and the temperature of the surface of the compartment is raised at the end of the period of time. The gas being introduced into the chamber is carbon dioxide with the internal pressure of the chamber maintained within a range of between 0 and 60 psig during the introduction and the temperature of the surface of the compartment lowered to a temperature of between -120 and -70degreesF.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOTECHNOLOGY - Preferred Composition: (I) is a Bacillus and the composition has a bacterial count of less than 105 cfu/g. (II) is a powder. The composition contains 0.1-3, especially 0.3-2 % Mn++ ions by weight. The composition also comprises a weak acid such as citric, tartaric or lactic acid and when present in a 10% water suspension, generates a pH value between 5 and 6. (I) produces enzymes which hydrolyze fats, proteins, starches and cellulose. SPECIFIC MICROORGANISMS - (I) is Bacillus thuringiensis, Bacillus sphaericus, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus lentus, Bacillus megaterium, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, or mixtures of these.    (II) comprises aluminosilicates, carbonates of alkaline earth metals, minerals from calcerous rocks or vegetable extracts.    EXAMPLE - No relevant example given in the specification.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Process: The worms are selected from Eiseniella tetraedra, Eisenia foetida and Eisenia andrei. The biodegradable solids are wood shavings, sawdust, leaves (especially from fruit trees) and/or cattle litter, all in dried form, and are added in an amount of 0.5-2 kg per liter of liquid effluent. The mixture is prefermented for 12-30 (preferably 24) hours.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOLOGY - Preferred Component: The cell comprises a nucleus of anaerobic and aerobic material. The microorganisms comprise bacterium from the genus vibrio, micrococcus, bacillus, arthrobacter, nocardis, corynebacterium, vibrio desulficans, Arthrobacter spp, Bacillus (B.) subtilis, B. licheniformis, B. megaterium, B. cereus, B. polymyxa, Aspergillus (A.) simplex, A. oryzae, A. niger, Trichodermas ressel, Saccharomyces spp, Pseudomonas mycobacteria, achrombacter, Geotrichum marinum, Thirumalachar sp nov. or other hydrocarbon degradation bacterium.Preferred Method: The method further comprises encapsulating nutrients for the microorganism into the pod or nucleus. The pod is coated with time release material (15) of varying densities, thickness, weights and sizes. A fluid (17) is installed into the envelopes which are introduced into the petroleum. The step of installing synergistic material enhances the effectiveness of microorganism released into the non-hydrocarbon environment. A liner is provided in the vessel and the pod is installed in the liner. The pod is exposed into the installed magnetic material (18) for its removal from the body of petroleum by filtration or centrifugation.Preferred Pod: The pod further comprises recovery means. A wall (12) separates the microorganism cell from the encapsulation that dissolves when exposed to water. The envelopes of varying weights and densities are contained in the encapsulation. The activation means releases microorganism discharged into an aqueous environment when the pod is exposed to water, air or non-fluid environment.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - PREFERRED METHOD : The hydrogen-rich gas can be delivered to a carbon monoxide shift reactor (7) for further enrichment with hydrogen, and subjected to treatment steps to remove carbon dioxide and hydrocarbon. A molten carbonate or solid oxide fuel cell is used. A mixture of oxygen and nitrogen (preferably air) is supplied to the cathode, and the hydrogen-rich flow of gas is combined with a nitrogen-containing, low oxygen content flow of gas from the cathode, the resulting gas mixture being brought into contact with a catalyst for selective oxidation of any remaining hydrocarbon to deliver a flow of gas with a significantly reduced oxygen content which is then subjected to a carbon monoxide shift reaction. The flow of oxygen/nitrogen mixture and nitrogen-containing, low oxygen content gas is chosen to allow all the oxygen present to react with the hydrocarbon and carbon monoxide from the anode, and to provide a hydrogen/nitrogen molar ratio of 1:3 in the nitrogen and hydrogen-rich gas stream. Electrical loading of the fuel cell is used to control reaction conditions. EXAMPLE - None given.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Process: The reaction is carried out by activation using electric discharges and/or activation by electromagnetic radiation. The catalyst is supported rhodium, palladium, platinum or nickel. The reactions are conducted in a membrane reactor and the separation of products and reactants is carried out in a membrane separator. EXAMPLE - Using the above process as above in a membrane reactor, a methane conversion of 67% was obtained with ethylene selectivity of 75%.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Pollution Control: The compost starter also contains a carbonaceous substance, e.g. molasses, potato residual fruit juice concentrate or sugar solution.Preferred Composition: The liquid compost starter is diluted with water before use. A biodegradable emulsifier is used.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INSTRUMENTATION AND TESTING - The substrate is a diamond, silicon, glass, metal or plastics. Particularly, the reactor is a flow-cell type reactor, or a dismantling and transforming structure. A group of the reactors can be set up in a flow-cell holder. EXAMPLE - A system was assembled as specified. The reactor formed with a diamond chip as substrate was used, with which an immobolized DNA library was constructed from chromosomal DNA after enzyme digestion. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) gene amplification with the immobilized DNA library was performed in the gene amplification apparatus after which the amplified gene products were analyzed by electrophoresis for gene diagnosis.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred receptacle: The bin is formed of high density plastic material. The filter material includes a lightweight, coarse particulate material, e.g. polystyrene, beneath a fine filter cloth.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred receptacle: The aeration pipe includes an inlet located at one end of the pipe, and is arranged to be disposed outside the composting material. The liquid discharge means includes at least one aperture extending through the receptacle and a valve to control the liquid flow. The coarse particulate material may be gravel.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - The zinc oxygen cell uses zinc as its another electrolyte selected from lithium hydroxide, sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide and cesium hydroxide.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Method: The method also includes recycling the activated sludge from the clarifier to the aeration basin through a Return Activated Sludge (RAS) line. The polymer is injected or added, in doses of 0.01 - 10 parts per million (ppm), into the wastewater coming out of the aeration basin, in the aeration basin or in the RAS line and before entering the clarifier through the RAS line. The polymer is added or injected by means of an addition system comprising a polymer tank for storing the polymer, a mixing pump for pumping the polymer out, a mixing tank for mixing and storing the polymer and a dosing pump for making 0.01 - 10 ppm doses of polymer for injection. EXAMPLE - No example given.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOTECHNOLOGY - Preferred Features: Before treatment, the organic wastewater, plus a portion of recycled treated water, is subjected to a biological denitrification process. Wastewater obtained by washing submerged biofilters is fed to and treated in lagoon. EXAMPLE - Organic wastewater obtained by subjecting manure-washing wastewater discharged from a pig pen to solid-liquid separation with a screen was used as the starting water to carry out experiments in accordance with the invention. A submerged biofilter unit using cylindrical plastic mesh tubes as packing media as disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 168.79011997 was used for the aerobic biological treatment of the wastewater. The capacity of a starting water tank was 1 m3 The capacity of the submerged biofilter was 1 m3. The capacity of a lagoon was 5 m3. The flow rate of the starting water was 5 m3/day. Almost all of CODCr (COD measured using potassium dichromate), BOD and ammonium nitrogen (NH4-N) were removed by the treatment with the submerged biofilter alone. The resulting treated water, when fed to and treated in the lagoon, was further purified with removal therefrom of nitric nitrogen (NO3-N) in particular. Additionally stated, it was believed that CODCr remaining in the final treated water in the lagoon was due to substances devoid of biodegradability.
EXAMPLE - A stainless steel cylinder was evacuated, and a weighed amount of HFC-254ca was added to the cylinder. The cylinder was cooled to reduce the vapor pressure of HFC-254ca, and then a weighed amount of HFC-263fb was added to the cylinder. The cylinder was agitated to mix the HFC-254ca and HFC-26-3fb, and then the cylinder was placed in a constant temperature bath until the temperature comes to equilibrium at 25 degreesC, at which time the vapor pressure of the HFC-254ca and HFC-26-3fb in the cylinder is measured. Additional samples of liquid were measured the same way. The results show at 25 degreesC , there are ranges of compositions that have vapor pressures higher than the vapor pressures of the pure components of the compositions at the same temperature.
EXAMPLE - Crops such as corn, potatoes, etc. are harvested and stored in silos or other suitable means until required for use. The crop material is fed by mechanical or hydraulic means (conveyor belt, pump, etc.) into a conventional biogas process operating with clarifier sludge, liquid manure (slurry) etc. The methane-producing bacteria in the liquid manure etc. convert the crop material into biogas which is used to drive a gas-burning engine which drives a generator producing electricity which is fed into the grid. Exhaust heat from the engine is recovered for use e.g. in district heating. Composted material from the gas generator is used as fertilizer for growing further crops. The CO2 produced is bound by photosynthesis during growth of the crops.
EXAMPLE - A pre-reformer (1) was supplied with 1 mol/mol CO2/CH4 and 0.7 mol/mol H2O/CH4 to provide a C:H:O ratio of 1:2.3:1.1. The resulting gas mixture was fed from the pre-reformer to high temperature fuel cells (2) and depleted fuel gas was fed from the high temperature fuel cells to a unit (3) in which part of its water content was separated by condensation. Part of the treated fuel gas was fed to a post-combustion chamber, while the remainder was injected, together with methane, by a return line (5) into the pre-reformer supply line (6). The heat, from the post-combustion chamber (4), was delivered to the pre-reformer (1) and to heat exchangers (8, 9). Air was supplied to and heated in the first heat exchanger (8) before supply to the high temperature fuel cells (2).
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Coolant: The contents of trifluoromethane and perfluoroethane are 70 approximately 15 wt. % and 30 approximately 85 wt. %, respectively. The contents of propane, butane, and the mixture of propane and butane are 55 approximately 95 wt. %, 50 approximately 90 wt. % and 35 approximately 70 wt. %, respectively. One coolant comprises trifluoromethane (CHF3: R-23) (60 approximately 15 wt. %), propane (16 approximately 34 wt. %) and butane (24 approximately 51 wt. %). Another coolant comprises trifluoromethane (CHF3: R-23) (50 approximately 15 wt. %) and butane (50 approximately 85 wt. %). Another coolant comprises perfluoroethane (C2F6: R-23) (60 approximately 20 wt. %), propane (16 approximately 32 wt. %) and butane (24 approximately 48 wt. %). Another coolant comprises perfluoroethane (C2F6: R-23) ( 55 approximately 20 wt. %) and butane ( 45 approximately 80 wt. %). EXAMPLE - A coolant comprising (wt. %) R-116 (60 approximately 20), propane (16 approximately 32), butane (24 approximately 48) maintained the temperature of a freezer at 60 degrees C or lower with a pressure of 12.0 approximately 25.0 kgf/cm2.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Process: The steps (b) and (c) in the process are repeated and the amendment material can be one or more agricultural or municipal waste. A surfactant can be optionally added to (I). (I) contains 10% or 30-70% weight of amendment material and during composting, the redox potential level can be maintained at negative 300-500 mV. The initial composting is continued until 30-70% of contaminant is partially dechlorinated. EXAMPLE - Inoculant is prepared for decontamination of Tampa landsite soil by mixing contaminated soil sample, 125 m dilute heterotrophic medium, 625 muL of 2 mg/mL methanol solution of AROCHLOR (RTM) 1260 PCB and 50 g of uncontaminated soil. The inoculant is stored under anaerobic conditions for 6 weeks at 22 degreesC. 1 Kg (60 ml) of soil containing 25 ppm of AROCHLOR (RTM) 1260, 400 mL of cattle manure and 50 mL of the inoculant is mixed to form the compost mixture. Duplicate samples of mixture with water holding capacity of 70% are composted anaerobically for 6 weeks at redox potential level below 250 mV and at 22 0C for significant degradation of PCB.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Method: The compost mixture contains 10 wt.%, preferably 30-70 wt.% of the amendment material, which comprises agricultural waste and/or municipal waste. A surfactant is added to the compost mixture and the contaminated soil supplies the organic nutrients. Composting is carried out at 30-55 degreesC and redox potential level is maintained below -200 mV, preferably -300 to -500 mV and oxygenation is carried out above +100 mV, preferably +200 to +300 mV. EXAMPLE - Wet soil contaminated with 57 mg/kg of pentachlorophenol (PCP) was mixed with 40% v/v and 5% straw. 175 g samples of this mixture, containing water at about 60-70% water holding capacity were mixed thoroughly with an anaerobic mixture containing 5% hydrogen, 5% CO2 and 9% nitrogen and seated in an airtight chamber for one month at 45 degreesC. During this anaerobic treatment, the redox potential decreases rapidly and remains below -200 mV. The samples are then aerated and the redox potential during this aerobic treatment remains above +100 mV. By repeating the anaerobic and aerobic process, excellent decontamination of PCP was achieved.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Method: The anaerobic/aerobic treatment process is repeated after mixing the soil with amendment material to inoculant at the start of each cycle. The first anaerobic step is continued until 30-70% of the contaminant is partially dechlorinated. The compost mixture initially contains 10% (preferably 30-70%) by weight of amendment material (i.e.) organic nutrient material such as agricultural of municipal waste and also a surfactant. The preferred temperature to carry out the process is in the range 30-55 degreesC and the negative redox potential is below -200 mV and is maintained in the range of -300 to 500 mV and positive redox potential level is about 100 mV and it is maintained in the range of about 200-300 mV. EXAMPLE - An inoculant is prepared by mixing 25 mL of heterotrophic medium, 625 microliters of 2 mg/mL methanol solution of hexachlorobenzene (HCB) and 50% of uncontaminated soil. The inoculant is stored for 6 weeks at 22 degreesC in an anaerobic chamber. 50 ml of the inoculant is mixed with 1 kg contaminated soil added with compost mixture containing 400 ml of cattle manure and 50 ml straw. The soil is composted anaerobically for 6 weeks. The water holding capacity (WHC), redox potential and temperature of the anaerobic compost mixture during this time averages about 70% below 250 mV and 22 degreesC. The mixture is then oxygenated for 2 weeks at WHC, redox potential and temperature ranges of 70%, above 200 mV and 34 degreesC. Significant degradation of the contaminant occurs. The process is repeated once to produce more contaminant degradation.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Arrangement: Air heated by a burner (6) is introduced into the hollow body through one end and removed through the other end. Volatile components evolved from the materials are passed through a stack (12) provided at the outlet and is subsequently used to fire the burner. The pretreater (hollow body) is heated for a sufficient temperature to remove the moisture from the material which is then introduced into pyrolization reactor (20) provided with inlet (24) and outlet (26). A number of pyrolization tubes are provided inside the reactor (20) with their axis parallel to the reactor axis and the tubes are not in connection with each other and with the reactor. Pyrolization augers equal in number to the pyrolization tubes are provided inside the pyrolization tubes for pushing the materials inside the tubes when they are rotated by unit (gears) (62). The reactor is heated by burner (22) to a temperature such that the material is pyrolyzed and char or charcoal formed is recovered from the reactor by the recovering unit provided. Volatile components from the pretreater and pyrolysis reactor are ejected out at their corresponding outlets and at least part of it is used to heat the materials present in them.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Catalyst: The Group IA metal is lithium, sodium or potassium. The Group IIA metal is magnesium or calcium. In process (2) the solid preferably comprises a sodium component. EXAMPLE - A gaseous feedstream comprising 50 volume% each of methane and air was contacted at 900 degreesC and methane GHSV 4800 with a solid consisting of 0.36 wt.% Li on MgO. The % conversion of methane was 23.6% and of oxygen was 83%. The product selectivities were: 42% C2=, 19% C2, 65% C2+, 17% CO and 18% CO2. In contrast, when no Li was used the methane conversion was only 19.9% and the C2+ selectivity was 55.2%.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Foam Sheet: The foam has a density of at least 32 kg/m3. The sheet has a width of at least 1.1 m (preferably at least 1.2 m) and a thickness of at least 5 mm (preferably at least 8 mm). The foam has average cell size of 0.1-6 mm (preferably 0.75-1 mm). The foam has an open cell content of less than 50%.Preferred Polymer: The polypropylene has a melt flow rate of less than 10 dg/minute.Preferred Process: The foamable composition is co-extruded with a non-foamable molten polymer under conditions to form a sheet having foamed and non-foamed portions. The pressure of the foamable composition prior to extrusion is at least 3 MPa.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Blowing Agent: The organic blowing agent is n-butane, isobutane (especially), propane or ethanol.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Blowing Agent: The inorganic blowing agent is carbon dioxide, argon, water or nitrogen. EXAMPLE - Polypropylene polymer PF-814 was fed to an extruder at 449 pounds per hour (lb/h) along with 0.42 lb/h talc, 0.3 lb/h Ultranox 815P stabilizer and 0.3 lb/h calcium stearate. The plasticized gel mixture was mixed with 3.9 lb/h of isobutane under pressure, cooled to 161 degreesC and conveyed to an annular die where it was allowed to expand into a region of lower pressure and stretched over a 16 inch diameter cooling mandrel to form a tubular foam sheet product. The tube was split to form a flat sheet. The foam had a thickness of 7 mm, a width of 1290 mm, an open cell content of 20.4%, a density of 3.3 lbs/cubic foot, and an average cell size of 3.6 mm. The foam was rigid, did not sag when supporting its own weight and was thermoformable. The foam had a flexural strength at failure value of 175 pounds per square inch (psi) or 1.21 MPa as tested by the method in SAE J949. Its Foamability Factor was 13.6.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Process: At least 50 or 75% of the hydrocarbyl metal alkoxide is introduced into the solvent after 70 or 80%, respectively, of the metal alkoxide has been hydrolyzed. Hydrolysis is carried out from 40C to the boiling point of the solvent. The metal (hydr)oxide is precipitated onto a porous inorganic support. Dried precipitate is calcined at 100-8000C, preferably 300-6000C in an inert atmosphere. Preferred Composition: Molar ratio of metal alkoxide to hydrocarbyl metal alkoxide is 5:95-95:5, preferably 20:80-80:20.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Alkoxide: The metal alkoxide is preferably tetraalkoxysilane, tetraalkoxytitanium, tetraalkoxyzirconium, or their mixture; and/or the hydrocarbyl metal alkoxide is an alkyltrialkoxysilane. It may be tetraethoxysilane, and the hydrocarbyl metal alkoxide is methyl triethoxysilane. EXAMPLE - Tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) was mixed with ethanol. A mixture of catalyst and water was added under vigorous stirring. After addition was completed, the reaction mixture having a molar ratio TEOS/ethanol/water/acid of a/3.8/6.4/0.085 was heated for 2.75 hours at 60degreesC under continuous stirring. Methyl-tri-ethoxy-silane (MTES) was mixed with ethanol in the ration of 1/1.38 and the mixture was added to the TEOS reaction mixture after 2.75 h heating. The MTES/TEOS reaction mixture obtained having a molar ratio MTES/TEOS/ethanol/water /acid of 1/1/7.6/6.4/0.085 was heated for 15 min at 60degreesC. The reacted mixture was cooled and diluted 19-fold with ethanol to obtain the final dip solution. After dipping, the membranes were calcined at 400degreesC for 3 hours in pure nitrogen with a heating and cooling rate of 0.5degreesC/min to obtain MeSi(400) membranes.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Method: Supplemental nutrients are provided as needed to maintain the biomass to metabolize the contaminant. The liquid is buffered to maintain pH suitable for the biomass. The stream of bubbles have average diameter of less than 1/8 inch. The gas contaminants are fed into the dispersal unit in the range of 0.2-8 SCFM/ft asteriskasterisk 2 (not defined). The biomass is derived from activated sludge.Air containing oxygen is mixed with the gas contaminants before the stream of bubbles sparges through and exits the top of the column. The oxygen has an O2 Kla determined in the volume of the liquid above the gas dispersal unit, the unit being sized so that O2 Kla is greater than 0.3/minute. The biomass has a solids retention time of 0.5-30 days, large enough so a 10% increase in the SRT results in less than or equal to a 5% decrease in the concentration of the contaminant in the liquid.The liquid in the chamber is water.The input stream is filtered of gas contaminants before it is fed into the dispersal unit creating a stream of bubbles.Preferred Apparatus: The chamber has no other food source for the biomass to metabolize. The Henry's coefficient is 1 or less and the column has a height less than 10 (preferably less than 6) feet. The dispersal unit is located near the bottom of the chamber. The chamber has an oxygen line connected to it for supplying oxygen to the liquid to maintain an adequate oxygen source for metabolism by the biomass. The reactor chamber has a second gas dispersal device fluidly connected to the oxygen line. The chamber has a floor and the dispersal unit is positioned near the floor and covers more than 60% of the floor area. EXAMPLE - No relevant example is given.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Apparatus: The first and second introduction channels are connected together by an air purge (88). Each introduction channel has one end connected to the inlet to the cavity via a guillotine which is closed on command, and the other end contains a bidirectional pushing mechanism moving the waste to the guillotine. The means of control the means of pushing and the guillotines in each channel. The upper part of each channel comprise a trap to receive the waste. The outlet from the incinerator has first and second outlet shafts, each with one end connected to the cavity and the other ends connected to a common point in turn connected to the burner. Each outlet shaft has a valve and a dust extraction unit, with the valve in one shaft closed whilst the valve in the other is open. The dust extraction unit comprises a blowing mechanism using a neutral gas or means of providing a vibratory shock to the shaft or a hollow screw fixed in the shaft. Installation for burning waste comprising an incinerator as above and a station for recovering solid carbon materials from the incinerator cavity, comprising an outlet pipe forming a siphon with a receiving vessel connected to the cavity in which the solid material settles and a recovery mechanism to carry the solid materials to a separation and washing station. The separation and washing station comprises a perforated drum turning in a decantation and scrubbing vessel to deliver solid burnable materials. It is connected to two means of treating the water comprising a number of decanting vessels connected together and each containing a scrubbing solution at a different desired concentration, decreasing from one vessel to the next. Pumps and control valves transfer the solution from vessel to vessel. Use of the solid material obtained as above in a glass furnace.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Apparatus: The reforming unit (18) has a mixer (20) for the raw material (28) and an oxygen-containing material, especially water and/or air. The raw material is methanol or gasoline.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Process: The reducing gas is introduced into the furnace chamber perpendicular to the surface of the smelt via single-jet burners. Its velocity is more than 100 m/s to produce a depression in the surface. The steam and/or oxygen-rich gas are introduced into the chamber tangentially via one or more feeders just above the smelt surface. The oxygen-rich gas is almost pure oxygen. The entire furnace chamber is maintained at a lambda value of 0.3 - 0.9, preferably 0.5. The process is carried out in an externally cooled smelting reactor.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOTECHNOLOGY - Preferred features: The heat exchanger is located in an air shaft parallel to the stack, and connects the top of the stack to the fermenter. The lower end of the stack opens into the highest point of the greenhouse. In the connection between stack top and the heat exchanger shaft, there is an air humidifier (8). The stack is exposed to the sun, and comprises metal pipes in a chamber with glass walls facing the sun. Actuators open windows when required. An air/liquid heat exchanger is installed, the liquid being aqueous ammonia. A solar energy collector (6) is connected to one end of the heat exchanger, and is located in the same space as the stack. There is a thermal storage unit (9) connected to one end of the heat exchanger directly or via the solar collector. The other end connects to the other end of the heat exchanger. In a development of this arrangement, a water/ammonia thermal storage system is described.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Materials: The inorganic component is preferably a descended pyroclastic material, especially volcanic glass, or an incineration ash. The incineration ash may be derived from combustible municipal waste, sludge (especially sludge from wastewater treatment or from dust removal in waste paper recycling processes), refuse-derived fuel, or coal ash (especially fly ash).Preferred Method: The reaction mixture may also contain one or more of glass, diatomaceous earth and aluminum dross. The glass is glass cullet. The alkali is an 2-4N aqueous solution of NaOH or KOH. The treatment temperature is greater than 100 degreesC, preferably 120-230 degreesC, or may be below 100 degreesC if no coal ash is used. EXAMPLE - Crushed volcanic glass (SiO2/Al2O3 = 3.2) (20 g) was autoclaved in 2N aqueous NaOH (200 ml) for 24 hours at 90 degreesC. The product was phillipsite having a cation exchange capacity of 420 cmol/kg.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - An oil emulsion, each phase of which is charged with differing significant pollutants, is incinerated in an engine, producing useful work. A vegetable oil methyl ester may be used. Extension to any carbonization or pyrolysis system suggests itself.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Compositions: These contain 5-95 wt% HFC-365mfc. Suitable compositions contain (a) HFC-365mfc and HFC-152a, (b) HFC-365mfc and HFC-32, (c) HFC-365mfc, HF-152a and carbon dioxide, (d) HFC-365mfc, HFC-32 and CO2, (e) HFC-365mfc, HFC-152a and butane, HFC-365mfc, HFC-32 and butane, (f) HFC-365mfc, HFC-152a and HFC134a, (g) HFC-365mfc, HFC-32 and HFC-134a, (h) HFC-365mfc and dimethyl ether, (i) HFC-365mfc and pentane, (j) HFC-365mfc and propane, (k) HFC-365mfc and ethane, (l) HFC-365mfc, pentane and CO2, (m) HFC-365mfc, butane and CO2, (n) HFC-365mfc, propane and CO2 or (o) HFC-365mfc, ethane and CO2, preferably 10-70 wt% HFC-365mfc and 90-30 wt% other components, especially HFC-32 and/or HFC-152a. The composition may also contain 2-50 wt% CO2 and/or up to 30 wt% additives which modify the properties of the plastic, especially fire retardants or plasticisers. The amount of blowing agent is 1-50 wt% based on the total wt. of PU and blowing agent. EXAMPLE - A polyol mixture comprising 40 parts by weight (pts. wt.) ethylenediamine/propylene oxide-polyether (OH number 480), 60 pts. wt. sorbitol/glycerol-propylene oxide-polyether (OH number 490), 1 pt. wt. foam stabilizer and 1.5 pts. wt. dimethylcyclohexylamine was mixed with 30 pts. wt. of a blowing agent comprising 70 wt% 1,1,1,3,3-pentafluorobutane and 30 wt% 1,1-difluoroethane, and also with 1 pt. wt. water as chemical blowing agent. This mixture was then combined with diphenylmethanedi-isocyanate (10% excess) and processed in a low-pressure system with a throughput of 8 kg/min. The product was a rigid polyurethane foam with a fine cell structure, a density of 32 kg/m3 and low shrinkage.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - AGRICULTURE - Preferred Process: Manufacture of fertilizer involves fermenting alcohol lees and treacle (waste product from cane sugar manufacture) with yeast. The water content of the obtained fermented product is 50-60% weight and the water content of the dried organic fertilizer is 40% weight or less.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOLOGY - Preferred Bacteria: A P. fluorescens deposited as NRRL-B-21658 is provided in the mixture of P. putida.    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Composition: The alkali metal is sodium. The monoammonium phosphate is included in a weight ratio of 1:1-125:1 alklai metal nitrate to monoammonium phosphate. The biodegradable material is an organic waste in the environment. EXAMPLE - Sodium nitrate was admixed with water in an amount of 0.26 g/100 g and bacteria Pseudomonas putida NRRL-18118 and NRRL 15078 and Pseudomonas fluorescens in equal volumes were added to bottles containing above and control only containing water. The control culture had significant drop off of cells after 28 days whereas the culture with sodium nitrate experienced much smaller drop off. This culture can be used for bioremediation.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred process: The conversion of the carbon dioxide to methane as well as the storage of both gases takes place in the porous or crevice structure (13,14). The material (11,12) is present so that the conversion favored substance in the porous or crevice structure (13,14) can be injected. The porous or crevice structure (13,14) is an aquifer, a natural gas deposit or a natural gas generating crude oil parent rock formation.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: The dioxin depressant contains a calcined dolomite obtained by calcining a dolomite at 700 - 800 degreesC or 900 - 1200 degreesC (1000 - 1100 degreesC). The average diameter of the depressant is 5-30 mm. EXAMPLE - A sample (1) was produced by mixing (1) 7.5 pts wt dioxin depressant (A) having a particle size of 5-30 mm, a sample (2) by mixing (2) 7.5 pts wt dioxin depressant (B) having a particle size of 5-30 microns and a sample (3) by mixing (3) 7.5 pts wt of the dioxin depressant (c) having a particle size of 5-30 mm respectively with 100 pts wt solid urban waste. Each of the samples was thrown into an urban waste incineration furnace and incinerated at 300 - 400 degreesC. The waste gas emanating from the furnace was sampled at intervals after start of the combustion and the samples of waste gas were assayed to determine concentrations of dioxins (PCDD's and PCDF's) and the chlorine components. The samples 1 - 3 did not contain either dioxins or chlorine components. In a control when no depressant was included, dioxins and chlorine components were detected (50 ng TEQ/m3 N and 80 ppm respectively.    Dioxin depressant A = 20 wt% dolomite, 20 wt% calcined dolomite A, 50 wt% calcined dolomite B, 5 wt% titanium and 5 wt% zinc.    Dioxin depressant (B) = 35 wt% dolomite, 35 wt% calcined dolomite (A) , 25 wt% calcined dolomite (B) and 5 wt% titanium.    Dioxin depressant (C) = 15 wt% dolomite, 15 wt% calcined dolomite (A), 65 wt% calcined dolomite (B) and 5 wt% zinc.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Mixture: The nitrogen content (ZN) is in the range from 1.07 ZP + (0.022 Ph - 0.14) to 1.23 ZP + (0.022 Ph - 0.14) mol/mol, the propane content (ZP) is 0.27 - Ph/100 +/- 0.02 (high pressure in bar) and the methane content (ZM) is from (2.2 - 0.07 Ph) ZP + (Ph - 2)/100 mol/mol to (2.8 - 0.1 Ph) ZP + (Ph - 1)/100 mol/mol. The mixture is at a temperature of 233-243 degreesK before it enters the Joule-Thomson heat exchanger; it is at a pressure of 1-3 (preferably 1.5-2.5, most preferably 1.6-1.8) bar before compression and 10-28 (preferably 12-18, most preferably 14-16) bar after compression. EXAMPLE - A suitable composition for a mixture used in a cooling system operated at low and high pressures of 1.6 and 14 bar respectively, with a precooling temperature of 243 degreesK, comprises 0.1 mol/mol propane, 0.295 mol/mol nitrogen, 0.245 mol/mol methane and 0.36 mol/mol ethane. The specific refrigerating capacity (q) of the cooling cycle, for a cooling temperature of 100 degreesK, is 1.092 kJ/mol. If the proportions of the above components are changed to 0.16, 0.337, 0.359 and 0.144 mol/mol respectively, the value of q is increased to 1.393.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - Preferred Composition: The fractions (Z) of N2, C3H8 and CH4 are:ZN2 = from (1.07 ZC3H8 + (0.022 Ph - 0.14)) to (1.23 ZC3H8 + (0.022 Ph -0.14)) mol/molZC3H8 = from 0.27 - Ph/100 +/- 0.02ZCH4 = from ((2.2 - 0.07 Ph) ZC3H8 + (Ph - 2)/100) to ((2.8 - 0.1 Ph) ZC3H8 + (Ph - 1)/100) mol/molPh = high pressure in barProcess: (Claimed) The mixture is compressed in an oil-lubricated compressor, then cooled to ambient temperature. The mixture is freed from oil and cooled further and transferred to a Joule-Thomson heat exchanger.Preferred Process: Further cooling is carried out before or after the oil is separated. In particular, liquid oil is separated after cooling to ambient temperature, then oil vapor is separated.Preferred Conditions: The mixture has a temperature of 233-243 degreesK before entering the Joule-Thomson heat exchanger; a pressure of 1-3, especially 1.5-2.5, more especially 1.6-1.8 bar before and 10-28, especially 12-18, more especially 14-16 bar after compression. EXAMPLE - A mixture of 0.14 mole C3H8, 0.289 mole N2, 0.293 mole CH4 and 0.278 mole C2H6 per mole was used in the throttle process, with a precooling temperature of about 243 degreesK (-30 degreesC) at a low pressure of 1.6 bar and high pressure of 12 bar. The specific cold capacity was 1.084 kJ/mole at 100 degreesK.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Apparatus: The reactor can be made of plastic (preferably PVC).    TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - COMPUTING AND CONTROL - Preferred Apparatus: Offsite monitoring and control is provided by a computer (110) through a modem (112). EXAMPLE - No example given.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOTECHNOLOGY - Preferred Apparatus: Film material is preferably located in the tip with holes for stand pipes.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - INORGANIC CHEMISTRY - Preferred Material: The gas occluding material contains a metal salt and/or a metal e.g. iron, cobalt, nickel, copper, platinum, palladium, rubidium, strontium, cesium, vanadium, manganese, aluminum, silver, lithium, sodium, magnesium, hydrogen occlusion alloy or a metal complex. The occluded gas is hydrogen, methane, helium, neon, xenon, krypton or carbon dioxide.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - BIOLOGY - Preferred Ingredients: The substrate consists of plastic, metals or wood. The packing medium particles consist of activated carbon, charcoal, anthracite, sand or glass beads, and are in the form of a flat sheet, ballast ring or honeycomb. The exterior surface is preferably smooth and impervious. EXAMPLE - A medium was first coated with a thin layer of epoxide resin as adhesive material by brushing or spraying. Before being dried and hardened, the particles were sprinkled onto the surface, part of which become immersed in the adhesive layer. After hardening, the manufacture of the composite medium is completed, and applied in the horizontal, vertical or other position.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - PHARMACEUTICALS - Preferred Composition: Other components that may be present include 2-6C alcohols or polyols (especially ethanol, propanol, propylene glycol, butylene glycol, glycerol or sorbitol) (0.1-15 %), a waxy hydrophobic substance (especially a hydrocarbon microcrystalline wax, beeswax or a sterol) (0.1-10 %), preservatives (0.1-1 %), bactericides (0.1-1 %) and fungicides (0.1-1 %), UV filters (1-5 %), perfumes (0.1-5 %), solid particles (pigments, micropigments, mineral fillers) (1-10 %), and a hydrophilic or lipophilic cosmetic or dermatologically-active material (0.001-5 %). Active materials are cosmetic or dermatological agents including vitamins and their derivatives, trace elements, amino acids, ceramides, sterols, retinoic acid, ecdysteroids, beta-glycyrrhetinic acid, ammonium glycyrrhizinate, hydroquinone and its derivatives, kojic acid, urea, sodium pyroglutamate, triterpenes, ginsenosides, asiatic and madecassic acid derivatives, derivatives of sericoside, visnadine, caffeine, and mono- or dimethyl xanthines, vegetable, algal, yeast, bacterial, and fungal extracts, melatonin, DHEA, proteins, fatty alcohols, sugars, alpha-hydroxy acids, essential oils, panthenol, and salicylic acid. ACTIVITY - Dermatological, antiseborrheic.    MECHANISM OF ACTION - None given.    ADMINISTRATION - Administration is topical.    SPECIFIC COMPOUNDS - (I) is preferably hexamethyltetracosane (perhydrosqualene). The phospholipid (II) is preferably a lecithin, especially soya or egg lecithin.    EXAMPLE - An oily phase was prepared containing (wt. %): perhydrosqualene (20), trans retinoic acid (0.02), soya lecithin (5). Separately, an aqueous phase was prepared containing ammonium glycyrrhizinate (0.1), butylene glycol (2), p-hydroxy benzoate preservatives (0.5), and water (to 100). The two phases were mixed to form a product for the treatment of acne.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - ENVIRONMENT - Preferred Process: The treatment comprises separation, biological treatment, filtration, disinfection and algae culture, which gives green matter (algae) smell and taste to the liquid appreciated by and nutritive for the pigs (claimed). First, the manure is centrifuged to give a liquid fraction (70 %, solid content: 4.5 %) and a solid fraction (30 %, solid content: 30 %). The animal feed is prepared from the liquid fraction by:(1) nitrification / denitrification of the liquid fraction;(2) treatment by UV light (disinfection);(3) culture of algae from the disinfected water;(4) concentration of algae and dilution to 50 % with fresh water.The solid fraction is treated to obtained fertilizer or bio-combustible by:(1) adding calcium oxide (CaO) (10-12 %) to obtain 50 % solids and composting (the air released is filtered air a biofilter); and(2) composting to obtain 80 % solids.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - AGRICULTURE - Preferred Apparatus: (I) further comprises a support member that allows the container to be rotated around the axis of rotation. The support has a ratchet mechanism that prevents counter-rotation of the container. The container has a long dimension and a short dimension and the axis of rotation may be along either dimension. The steps may be formed by either pockets which project radially inward towards the rotational axis and/or by protrusions which project radially outwards from the axis of rotation. (I) has indicators (associated with the steps) on the outside of the container which display the rotational state of the composter. The indicators may be days of the week or 5 - 10 symbols. The container has a polygonal cross section and a number of vertices and the steps are positioned at the vertices. EXAMPLE - No example given.