Supercritical fluid extraction vs conventional extraction of myrtle leaves and berries: Comparison of antioxidant activity and identification of bioactive compoundsOriginal Research Article
Abstract
   In this work, the antioxidant capacity of extracts of Portuguese myrtle (Myrtus communis L.) is being studied over a period of three years. The samples were leaves of myrtle collected at the flowering stage and berries sampled at an early ripened stage. Supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) extracts were obtained at 23 MPa, 45 °C and a CO2 flow of 0.3 kg h−1 using ethanol as co-solvent with a flow rate of 0.09 kg h−1. Hydrodistillation was carried out in a Clevenger type apparatus and the aqueous phase was extracted with diisopropylether having obtained what is hereby designated as liquid phase extract (LPE).

Supercritical CO2 selective extraction inducing wettability alteration of oil reservoirOriginal Research Article/
Abstract
   Supercritical CO2 (scCO2) flooding, a promising and economical technique, can greatly improve water injectivity and enhance oil recovery. In this work, molecular dynamics simulation was performed to investigate the mechanism of scCO2 selective extraction inducing the wettability alteration of an oil reservoir. The results indicate that scCO2 could disrupt the structure of crude oil, and a clear selectivity of scCO2 for extracting apolar components from the crude oil is observed. As a result, the polar components of crude oil remained on the oil reservoir rock surface. Next, the wettability of the rock surface was further investigated, and the results indicate that the wettability of the rock surface is altered from hydrophobic to hydrophilic after scCO2 flooding. Our study provides a comprehensive understanding of the wettability alteration of the oil reservoir rock surface and the improvement of the water injectivity rate after scCO2 injection.

Synthesis of indium tin oxide (ITO) nanoparticles in supercritical methanolOriginal Research Article
Abstract
   Indium oxide (In2O3) and indium tin oxide (ITO; Sn-doped In2O3) nanoparticles are synthesized via a solvothermal method using surfactant-free supercritical methanol. X-ray diffraction analysis of the products indicates that crystalline indium oxide is formed within 2 min at temperatures as low as 250 °C. Transmission electron microscopy shows that the particles are single crystals and have a cubic shape with an edge length of about 20 nm. The crystallite size of the particles calculated from X-ray diffraction is consistent with the particle size. The electrical resistivity and lattice parameters of the synthesized ITO nanoparticles vary as a function of tin content.

Study of the fatty acid profile and the aroma composition of oil obtained from roasted Colombian coffee beans by supercritical fluid extractionOriginal Research Article/
Abstract
   In the present work, the extraction of oil from roasted coffee beans using supercritical carbon dioxide (SCCO2) under different conditions of pressure (15–30 MPa) and temperature (40–60 °C) was studied. A central composite experimental design was employed in order to establish the effect of these parameters on the yield and fatty acids composition that was determined by gas chromatography with flame ionization detector (GC-FID). The aroma was analyzed by headspace solid phase microextraction (HS-SPME). The optimum oil yield was 8.9%, obtained at 33.1 MPa and 35.9 °C. The main fatty acids identified were palmitic (46.1%), linoleic (32.9%), oleic (8.0%), stearic (6.6%) and arachidic (1.9%). The volatile compounds of the coffee oil belong mainly to the family of furans and pyrazines, which maintain the particular features of the roasted coffee. This fact makes the coffee oil attractive to be used in the food and/or cosmetic industry.

Optimization of periodic static-dynamic supercritical CO2 extraction of taxifolin from pinus nigra bark with ethanol as entrainerOriginal Research Article
Abstract
   A study of the formation of poly(phenylquinoxaline)s in supercritical carbon dioxide was performed. It was found that the reaction conditions of cyclopolycondensation had a significant impact on the formation of polymers. When using certain catalysts, soluble polymers were obtained which were cast into thin films and some of their properties were then studied.

Methylation of toluene with methanol in sub/supercritical toluene using H-beta zeolite as catalystOriginal Research Article
Abstract
   Production of xylene isomers and other alkylbenzene products in normal, near and supercritical toluene using unmodified beta zeolite catalyst and methanol were investigated. The effect of different parameters such as toluene/methanol ratio, temperature, pressure, and flow rate of the reacting materials were investigated. The production optimum conditions for alkylbenzenes are temperature of 623 K, pressure of 55 bar and flow rate of 0.2 mL min−1 using 1 g beta zeolite as catalyst with Si/Al = 38. The selectivity of 47% was achieved for p-xylene production, conversion of methanol and toluene were 100 and 65%, and the production yield and liquid selectivity of xylenes were 72 and 97%, respectively. The catalyst's activity was investigated in a 20 h period and the catalyst were characterized by XRD, TGA, and FT-IR methods.

Highly selective separation and adsorption-induced phase transition of SF6-N2 fluid mixtures in three-dimensional carbon nanotube networksOriginal Research Article
Abstract
   The separation of an equimolar SF6-N2 fluid mixture in a three-dimension porous carbon nanotube network has been investigated by means of classical molecular dynamics simulations at ambient conditions. The calculations performed have shown that the SF6 molecules are preferentially adsorbed over the nitrogen ones, yielding a high selectivity for sulfur hexafluoride. The adsorbed mixture is much denser than the bulk supercritical fluid, exhibiting a liquid-like behavior, which is reflected on the static structural, transport and dynamic properties of the confined mixture.

Synthesis of nano-crystalline NiFe2O4 powders in subcritical and supercritical ethanolOriginal Research Article
Abstract
   Nano-crystalline nickel ferrite has a broad range of applications due to its favourable magnetic properties. Those characteristics can be significantly influenced by the synthesis pathway including methods conducted in the presence of supercritical alcohols. Nano-crystalline NiFe2O4 powders were obtained in the reaction under subcritical and supercritical conditions of ethanol. Both high pressure synthesis routes resulted in powders with smaller primary particles and higher mesoporosity than co-precipitation method. Upon the annealing treatment the average crystallite size increased while material structure remained uniform, resulting in significantly enhanced magnetic properties, such as coercivity and remanence. It was found that synthesis under supercritical conditions provides higher conversion but also material with larger average crystallite size upon annealing. The time and temperature of annealing stage significantly influenced the morphology and magnetic properties of the obtained powders.

Counter-current carbon dioxide extraction of fat from soy skimOriginal Research Article
Abstract
   This research aims to investigate the use of counter-current carbon dioxide extraction method as a means to reduce residual fat in soy skim after the enzyme-assisted aqueous extraction of soybeans. Extractions with liquid CO2 at 25 °C and 10.34 MPa and supercritical CO2 at 50 °C and 25.16 MPa are compared. The effects of solvent-to-feed ratio (2.5–10), addition of ethanol as a modifier (5% w/w) and introductions of packing in the column are also analyzed. Results show that the highest reduction of fat content is obtained without modifier and with packing in the column at 50 °C and 25.16 MPa. At these conditions, the total fat content present in soy skim was reduced from 4.4 to 0.7%, with the protein content practically unaffected. ANOVA was applied to determine effects on fat and protein in soy skim, being the addition of packing in the column the most significant one. The fatty acid profile was also analyzed, with C18:2 being the predominant fatty acid present in all the soy skim samples. Gel electrophoresis indicated that supercritical CO2 settings did not affect the polypeptide band patterns; however, higher pressure, temperature, and CO2 flow significantly increased protein solubility in aqueous media (pH 2–10) compared with un-treated samples.

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon formation from gasification of sewage sludge in supercritical water: The concentration distribution and effect of sludge propertiesOriginal Research Article
Abstract
   The changes in the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) concentration and distribution in 10 different types of raw sewage sludge and gasified residues were investigated, and the effects of the sludge properties and the organic matter composition were determined. The results showed that the concentrations of 2-ring and 6-ring PAHs increased significantly during the gasification process. The PAHs in raw sludge were dominated by 3-ring and 4-ring PAHs, and those after gasification were dominated by 2-ring and 3-ring PAHs. The total PAH concentration increased with the increasing volatile matter content and decreased with the increasing pH value. Phenols have been considered to be important precursors for PAH synthesis. The crude fat and carbohydrate content can promote lower-molecular-weight PAH formation, while lignin and humic substance content can promote higher-molecular-weight PAH formation, which indicates that the organic matter composition in raw sludge has a high impact on the PAH distribution.

Volumetric and phase behaviour of mixtures of tetracyanoborate-based ionic liquids with high pressure carbon dioxideOriginal Research Article
Abstract
   The high-pressure solubility of carbon dioxide in ionic liquids based on tetracyanoborate anion, 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium tetracyanoborate ([emim][B(CN)4]) and 1-hexyl-3-methylimidazolium tetracyanoborate ([hmim][B(CN)4]), was determined experimentally at the temperature of 313.15 K and pressures up to 19 MPa. Additionally, measurements of volume expansion of a liquid phase, based on a change in total or molar volume of a liquid upon carbon dioxide addition, are reported. The obtained results show that CO2 has a high solubility in tetracyanoborate-based ionic liquids, comparable, or even slightly higher, to the CO2 solubility in fluorinated CO2-philic ionic liquids. Approximately 60% CO2-induced volume expansion of the liquid was observed at the highest pressures, an unprecedented result for ionic liquid+ CO2 systems.

Volumetric and phase behaviour of mixtures of fluoroalkylphosphate-based ionic liquids with high pressure carbon dioxideOriginal Research Article
Abstract
   The high-pressure solubility of carbon dioxide in ionic liquids based on tris(pentafluoroethyl)trifluorophosphate ([eFAP]) anion, combined with 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium ([emim]), 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium ([bmim]) and 1-hexyl-3-methylimidazolium ([hmim]) cation, was determined experimentally at the temperature of 313.15 K and pressures up to 10 MPa. Measurements of the volume expansion of the liquid phase upon carbon dioxide dissolution are also reported. The obtained results show that the solubility of CO2 in ionic liquids with the fluoroalkylphosphate anion, as well as the CO2-induced volume expansion of the liquid, are among the highest so far reported for ionic liquids where CO2 dissolves through “physical” mechanisms.

Measuring and modeling adsorption equilibria of non-volatile compounds dissolved in supercritical carbon dioxide on nanoparticles using dynamic methodsOriginal Research Article
Abstract
   Adsorption equilibria of benzoic acid and ibuprofen on AlO(OH) nanoparticles were measured for the first time using a dynamic method, frontal analysis. Possible techniques for creating packed beds of nanoparticles are presented and their suitability for different chromatographic adsorption measurement methods is discussed. Benzoic acid adsorption was measured at 40 °C and 16 MPa on AlO(OH) solid and hollow spheres, ibuprofen adsorption was measured at 40 °C and varying pressures of 10, 15 and 20 MPa on AlO(OH) hollow spheres. A dry packing method was used to create packed beds for the adsorption experiments. The experimental data was modeled with a Peng-Robinson EoS/RAST/BET approach, which shows excellent agreement with the data. The model is discussed as a way to model adsorption in high pressure drop packed beds.

In-depth study of the transesterification reaction of Pongamia pinnata oil for biodiesel production using catalyst-free supercritical methanol processOriginal Research Article
Abstract
   Non-edible vegetable oils are promising substitutes for traditional edible food crops used in the synthesis of biodiesel. Among them, Pongamia pinnata oil, also known as Karanja oil, is considered as a good candidate with potential availability of more than 135 Mtpa. The present work offers an in-depth study of the transesterification reaction of Karanja oil in supercritical methanol in one-step catalyst-free process. Triglyceride (TG) conversion and the yield of fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) are analyzed in the temperature and reaction time ranges of 250–350 °C (12–43 MPa) and 15–90 min, respectively, at an alcohol-to-oil molar ratio of 43:1. This study also covers the evolution of intermediate products such as monoglycerides (MG) and diglycerides (DG) and the thermal decomposition of fatty acid chains for the stated reaction conditions. Optimal reactions conditions were found at 300 °C and 90 min reaction with almost complete triglyceride conversion. Significant thermal decomposition was observed from 325 °C, mainly caused by the degradation of polyunsaturated fatty acid methyl esters. Maximum degree of thermal decomposition of 38% was determined at 350 °C after 90 min reaction time. 

Adsorbent-assisted supercritical CO2 extraction of carotenoids from Neochloris oleoabundans pasteOriginal Research Article
Abstract
   Neochloris oleoabundans emerges as alternative source of bioactives that complies with the algae-based biorefinery concept, which consists of a platform that offers a multitude of algae bioproducts. The development of an integrated extractive processes in line with the green chemistry principles have motivated the use of Supercritical CO2 (scCO2), as an alternative to toxic organic solvents, for the extraction of bioactives. However, process integration and optimization is challenging because microalgae are grown in liquid cultures, therefore is often necessary a drying step prior to scCO2 extraction. Moreover, this step is usually energy intensive and risks damaging the compound's bioactivity. An alternative is the simultaneous extraction process of the microalgae paste (containing around 70–80% water), nevertheless little information is available that explores this type of extraction. This work aims to explore the direct extraction of microalgae paste and to evaluate the effect of water on carotenoid extractions of N. oleoabundans. To study the extraction under a batch-wise system, an indirect extraction system was developed by mixing the microalgae paste with low cost adsorbents as support medium. Two types of silica gels, two different chitosans and active carbon were tested as adsorbents; sea sand was used as inert control. All of the materials showed different adsorbent capacity, being chitosan adsorbents those with higher capacity. However, oleoresin yield and recovery was negligible in a system with only scCO2 as a solvent and ethanol as co-solvent was required to improve the extraction yield. Although the overall oleoresin recoveries were low for all adsorbents (ranging from 2 to 10%), chitosan-assisted extraction showed the highest carotenoid recoveries (60–140% g/g) surpassing acetone benchmark extraction in case of chitosan microspheres. These results are interesting for the development of low energy consumption processes, since there is no need to dry the microalgal paste.

Extraction of oil and bioactive compounds from Araucaria angustifolia (Bertol.) Kuntze using subcritical n-propane and organic solventsOriginal Research Article
Abstract
   Araucaria angustifolia is a conifer belonging to the Araucariaceae family, whose seeds, which are known as “pinhão”, are consumed as food. We evaluated the proximal composition of these seeds endosperms (in natura). The values of moisture, ash, crude protein, total lipids, total fibers, and other carbohydrates were 43.70%, 1.50%, 3.42%, 1.67%, 1.29%, and 48.42%, respectively. The total lipids were extracted using subcritical n-propane and the yields and chemical composition of oils were compared to Soxhlet method. The extraction yields showed no statistical difference (p < 0.05). The main fatty acids were linoleic, oleic, and palmitic acid. High concentrations of the essential fatty acids, total tocopherol, and total phytosterol were obtained in the extracts by subcritical fluid extraction at 40 °C and 8 MPa. Furthermore, it was determined that the oil extracted by Soxhlet was less resistant to lipid oxidation. The Sovová model was fitted to the experimental data with good agreement.

Extraction of bioactive compounds from palm (Elaeis guineensis) pressed fiber using different compressed fluidsOriginal Research Article
Abstract
   Compressed liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and CO2 were used for the extraction of bioactive compounds from palm pressed fiber (Elaeis guineensis). The influence of temperature and pressure on extraction yield, chemical composition, antioxidant activities towards superoxide and hydroxyl radicals and the sun protection factor were studied for each solvent. Maximum extraction yield was 4.55 wt% using supercritical CO2 at 60 °C and 25 MPa, which was about three times higher than the yield using compressed LPG. The highest antioxidant activities and sun protection factor were also obtained at this condition. The chemical profiles were similar for both solvents, where lauric, palmitic and oleic acids corresponded to 80% of the total fatty acids determined in the extract. Antioxidant compounds such as α-tocopherol, squalene, β-carotene and β-sitosterol were also determined. CO2 was the best solvent for extraction of bioactive compounds from pressed fiber palm, due to the highest extraction yield, antioxidant activities and sun protection factor.

Quercetin extraction from Rosa damascena Mill via supercritical CO2: Neural network and adaptive neuro fuzzy interface system modeling and response surface optimizationOriginal Research Article
Abstract
   In this study, the extraction of quercetin from Rosa damascena Mill was carried out by modified supercritical CO2 with ethanol an entrainer and Soxhlet extraction. Design of experiment was carried out with response surface methodology (RSM) using Mini Tab software 17. The operating temperature (35–55 °C), pressure (10–30 MPa), dynamic extraction time (40–120 min) and CO2 flow rate (0.3–1.5 ml/min) were considered as the range of operating variables. Response surface analysis verified that R2 and modified R2 of the model were 93.1% and 87.1%, respectively. Optimal operating conditions was predicted using RSM modeling to be the pressure of 25.5 MPa, temperature of 46.3 °C, CO2 flow rate of 0.7 ml/min and dynamic extraction time of 120 min in which the maximum recovery of 32.0% was obtained. Moreover, the recovery of extraction was modeled by adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) and artificial neural network (ANN). Levenberg–Marquardt backpropagation training function with six neurons in hidden layer was found to be the most suitable network and the coefficient of determination (R2) was 99.5%. Gaussian curve built-in membership function using 2 membership functions to each input was obtained to be optimum ANFIS architecture with mean square error (MSE) of 0.19, 0.69 and 0.49 for training, testing and checking data, respectively.

Valorization of chia (Salvia hispanica) seed cake by means of supercritical fluid extractionOriginal Research Article
Abstract
   Chia (Salvia hispanica) seed is a source of natural antioxidants and essential fatty acids. The present study evaluated the oil extraction from chia seed cake, a residue from chia seed oil extraction by cold pressing. Extraction conditions (pressure, temperature, solvent) and its effects in the quality of the extracts were studied. The re-use of an agroindustrial residue (chia seed cake) for obtaining extracts rich in bioactive compounds (high added value), mainly using the supercritical technology, is a novelty. Published studies on this subject have not been found. Supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) was performed at pressures from 150 to 300 bar and temperatures of 40–50 °C, using CO2 as solvent or CO2 added to ethanol (EtOH) or ethyl acetate (EtOAc) as cosolvents at 2.5–7.5% w/w of the total CO2 mass. Extracts obtained by SFE were compared to extracts obtained by low-pressure techniques (LPE), using hexane, EtOH, and EtOAc as solvents. All extracts were evaluated as antioxidant content (ABTS and DPPH methods), total phenolics content (TPC), fatty acids profile (GC-FID) and in vitro antimicrobial activity analysis. SFE assays using pure CO2 reached yields up to 10.6 ± 0.2% at 300 bar and 50 °C. SFE with 7.5% of EtOH increased the process yield and TPC of the extract. LPE techniques using EtOH and EtOAc produced extracts with the best TPC values (50 ± 3 and 79 ±

Supercritical carbon dioxide extraction of flaxseed oil: Effect of extraction parameters and mass transfer modelingOriginal Research Article
Abstract
   Supercritical carbon dioxide (SC-CO2) extraction of flaxseed oil was performed and effects of process parameters including particle size (mean particle diameter <0.85–0.92 mm), solvent flow rate (2–4 g/min), pressure (40–60 MPa) and temperature (50–70 °C) were investigated. The broken and intact cells (BIC) model was used for mass transfer modeling of the extraction of flaxseed oil with SC-CO2 successfully. Extraction of flaxseed oil was divided into two periods as first (fast) and second (slow) extraction periods. Great part of the flaxseed oil was extracted in the first period and a very small amount was extracted in the second period. Decreasing the particle size increased the amount of released (free) oil. Increasing the pressure, temperature and flow rate also caused slight increases in the released oil amounts. Increase in the solvent flow rate, pressure and temperature increased the extraction rate in the first period within the range of experiments. The fluid phase mass transfer coefficient (kfa) varied between 0.38 and 2.32 min−1 and the solid phase mass transfer coefficient (ksa) varied between 0.5 × 10−3 and 6.7 × 10−3 min−1.

Supercritical fluid extraction of Drimys angustifolia Miers: Experimental data and identification of the dynamic behavior of extraction curves using neural networks based on waveletsOriginal Research Article
Abstract
   Drimys angustifolia Miers is a tree species native to and found in southern Brazil. The extract of this plant is rich with active compounds that show medicinal potential, its uses being prospected as phytotherapy. In this study, yield data from supercritical extraction of D. angustifolia Miers are provided at different pressure and temperature conditions, and for various process operation times. Additionally, with the view to allowing a scale-up process, a methodology for identifying the extraction curves using neural networks based on wavelets was proposed. This showed good prediction performance provided that a sufficient number of extraction curves are used during training. The identification method proposed is robust, fast and optimal, in the sense that the best neural network structure and respective associated weights can be determined, thus optimizing a quadratic approximation criterion. 

Visual and in situ Raman spectroscopic observations of the liquid–liquid immiscibility in aqueous uranyl sulfate solutions at temperatures up to 420 °COriginal Research Article
Abstract
The phase behaviors of aqueous UO2SO4 solutions were investigated in situ with a microscope and a Raman spectrometer at temperatures from 25 to 420 °C. Results show that aqueous UO2SO4 solution separated into UO2SO4-rich (Urich) and UO2SO4-poor (Upoor) liquid phases coexisted with a vapor phase at ≥285.8 ± 0.5 °C. Both visual and Raman spectroscopic investigations suggest that a reversible strong UO22+–SO42− association was responsible for the liquid–liquid immiscibility in aqueous UO2SO4 solutions. Main evidences were summarized as: (1) the liquid–liquid phase separation temperature decreases with increasing UO2SO4 concentration up to 0.54 mol/kg, and then increased at greater concentrations, characterizing a lower critical solution temperature (LCST) at 285.8 °C ± 0.5 °C. LCST is commonly accepted as a diagnostic feature of polymer solutions; (2) analyses of the shapes of the Raman spectra of v1(UO22+) and v1(SO42−) bands show that the UO22+–SO42− association becomes stronger at elevated temperatures, especially in the immiscible Urich phase; and (3) with increasing temperature, the Urich phase becomes more concentrated, whereas the Upoor phase becomes more dilute, indicating that the hydration of UO22+ and SO42− cannot be maintained in the Urich phase. Destruction of the hydration spheres of UO22+ and SO42− further favors the ion association in the Urich phase. These results are important for describing similar sulfate solutions at elevated temperatures, especially under supercritical conditions. 

Molecular dynamics simulation study: The reactivation of NaX zeolite contaminated by bi and tri aromatics using supercritical fluid extractionOriginal Research Article
Abstract
   In the present work, the supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) process was utilized to reactivate deactivated NaX zeolite with bi and tri aromatic contaminants (naphthalene and anthracene). In this direction, different parameters including extraction static time (30–120 min), extraction pressure (80–350 bar), extraction temperature (323.15–373.15 K) and using two common and polar modifiers, methanol and dichloromethane, were investigated. The obtained results show that the optimum parameters were extraction pressure and temperature of 350 bar and 373.15, respectively as well as static time of 90 min to have the highest extraction value. However, modifiers did not display any significant influence on extraction efficiency. In addition, molecular dynamics simulations have been carried out to provide an atomic description of the supercritical carbon dioxide behavior with contaminants trapped inside NaX zeolite. The force field parameters were chosen carefully to examine self-diffusion coefficient of sorbates over a wide range of loading, temperature, and pressure. The simulated self-diffusivity was found to be in a reasonable agreement with the corresponding experimental data which evaluate the effectiveness of proposed calculation method and force field accuracy. All involved calculations were performed in time period 6 ns and repeated calculations have been done at least two times to confirm the results and applied average values, which made the results being reliable.

Synthesis of manganese oxide microparticles using supercritical waterOriginal Research Article
Abstract
Manganese compounds of different oxidation states such as MnO2, MnCO3 Mn2O3, and a mixture of MnO + Mn3O4 were synthesized using supercritical water (SCW) and calcination process. The X-ray Diffraction (XRD) patterns confirmed that the use of glycerol as a reducing agent in SCW process was successful in preventing oxidation of manganese products. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images of the manganese products showed micro-sized particles with different morphology depending on the product. The simple two step synthesis procedure described in this paper allows easy control of manganese oxidation states with direct applicability in large scale production on an industrial level.

Effects of supercritical carbon dioxide processing on the properties of chitosan–alginate membranesOriginal Research Article
Abstract
   Chitosan–alginate membranes with different porosities designed to be used as wound dressings or scaffolds were processed in supercritical CO2 (scCO2) with the aim of improving their physicochemical properties. The membranes were characterized before and after processing at 100 or 300 bar and 45 °C for 2 h with a depressurization rate of 5 bar/min. The results show that after processing, thickness, real density and porosity increased up to 68%, 100% and 167%, respectively, and surface area decreased up to 47%. Because of changes in structure, water vapor sorption and permeability increased up to 53% and 84%, respectively. Stabilization of the chitosan–alginate complex was noticed after processing with scCO2 according to thermal analysis. The results indicate that supercritical CO2 processing made the membranes more adequate for use as wound dressings.

Decomposition and decoloration of dyeing wastewater by hydrothermal oxidationOriginal Research Article
Abstract
   The objective of this research was to investigate the decomposition and decoloration of textile wastewater by hydrothermal treatment. We studied the hydrothermal oxidation of methyl orange aqueous solution using a flow-type reactor packed with MnO2 catalyst. Hot steam (vapor) and subcritical water (liquid) were used in the reactor as the decomposition media at the reaction temperature and pressure of 200–300 °C and 1 or 10 MPa, respectively. When methyl orange solution with 300 mg/L of total organic carbon (TOC) was used, nearly complete decomposition of methyl orange was realized in hot steam at 300 °C, 1 MPa, 10 s, and 1.5 oxygen supply ratio, i.e., a much higher TOC decomposition rate was obtained at a lower reaction pressure and shorter residence time than those obtained with subcritical water oxidation. The kinetic modeling of hydrothermal oxidation of the model wastewater containing methyl orange was also investigated. The kinetic model to calculate TOC conversion at a given residence time was proposed based on the regression from the complete set of data. In the case of hot steam oxidation, a second-order kinetic model was used to describe the TOC conversion. However, a two-step first-order kinetic model (a rapid first reaction followed by a slow second reaction) was needed to describe the kinetics of subcritical water oxidation. Both reaction rate expressions were successfully used to estimate the TOC concentrations at any residence time at 90% confidence level.

The effect of pressurized and fast stabilization on one step batch foaming process for the investigation of cell structure formationOriginal Research Article
Abstract
   Control of cell structure during pressure drop is essential for the investigation of cell formation mechanism. In this work, a one step batch foaming setup was totally redesigned to stabilize foam structure at initial stages of cell forming during and after depressurization as a novel idea. The saturation pressure, duration of pressure drop and foaming temperatures were 18.5 MPa, 100 ms and 70, 90, 110 °C, respectively. The shortest stabilized foaming time was 5 ms and the longest was 5000 ms. For comparison purposes non-stabilized samples were also produced. It was concluded that the effect of stabilization on foam morphology is dependent on the foaming temperature. Foam structure at foaming temperatures of 70 °C did not change with change of foaming time significantly. Foam structure at foaming temperatures of 110 °C for the shortest and the longest foaming times changed from 90 μm to 170 μm and 7E + 06 cell/cm3 to 8E + 06 cell/cm3.

Soave alpha function at supercritical temperaturesOriginal Research Article
Abstract
Soave–Redlich–Kwong (SRK) cubic equations of state (CEoS), Peng–Robinson (PR) and four modifications of these equations with Soave type alpha functions at supercritical temperatures are investigated. For pure compounds two different typical behaviors of Soave type alpha function at supercritical temperature are introduced. Then criteria for occurring of these two kinds of behavior for each one of compounds are established. It is exhibited that CEoSs with Soave type alpha function after temperatures that alpha function has minimum are reasonably precise. Furthermore theoretical reason for accuracy of these equations after the abnormal behaviors of alpha functions is presented. Derivatives of soave type alpha functions are calculated and their behaviors at supercritical temperatures are explained. Finally, accuracy of CEoSs with Soave alpha function in prediction of compressibility factor, fugacity coefficient, enthalpy and constant volume heat capacity of 25 pure compounds at supercritical region are studied.

Solubility of protocatechuic acid, sinapic acid and chrysin in supercritical carbon dioxideOriginal Research Article
Abstract
   Solubility data of some phenolic compounds of industrial interest, such as protocatechuic acid (3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid), chrysin (5,7-dihydroxyflavone) and sinapic acid (3,5-dimethoxy-4-hydroxycinnamic acid) in supercritical carbon dioxide were determined at pressures of 200, 300 and 400 bar and temperatures of 40, 50 and 60 °C. Experimental data were correlated with semi-empirical Chrastil model and thermodynamic modeling using the Peng–Robinson equation of state with classical mixing rule. The critical properties, acentric factor, and vapor pressure of these compounds were estimated by group contribution methods. The solubility values followed a similar tendency, with higher solubility with increasing temperature and pressure, and no crossover pressure in the range studied. However, a crossover pressure around 150 bar was observed when extrapolating the solubility data by the Chrastil equation, which is in agreement with values reported in the literature for phenolic compounds, thereby indicating the consistency of the solubility experimental data. 

Encapsulation of pepper oleoresin by supercritical fluid extraction of emulsionsOriginal Research Article
Abstract
   Capsaicinoids, which are the responsible for the pungency of peppers, have strong pharmacological effects. The encapsulation of capsaicinoids can be an alternative for its industrial application. The aim of this work was to evaluate the effect of various ultrasound emulsification conditions, such as surfactant concentration, oil/water ratio, and ultrasound power on the emulsion droplet size. Emulsions formed by Hi-Cap 100 and oleoresin of Capsicum frutescens pepper were then applied in a SFEE process. Ultrasound emulsification resulted in high emulsification efficiency and stability. The selected time for emulsion injection into the SFEE system was 10 min after its preparation, based on the coalescence kinetics. The SFEE process resulted in a considerable loss of oleoresin by dissolution in the supercritical CO2 and promoted a droplet volume expansion, reflected by the increase in the diameter of the droplets in suspension. The formation of emulsions by ultrasound emulsification in the evaluated conditions showed promising results, but more studies are required to improve the SFEE process.

Mangiferin nanoparticles precipitation by supercritical antisolvent processOriginal Research Article
Abstract
   Nano- and microparticles of mangiferin were precipitated by a supercritical antisolvent (SAS) process. A preliminary study of typical solvents used in SAS processes was carried out in order to select a solvent (or solvent mixture) that had good miscibility with supercritical CO2. Mixtures of acetone with dimethyl sulfoxide or 1-methyl-2-pyrrolidone led to submicron particles with a spherical morphology. The main parameters that could affect the nano- or micro-precipitation were studied using mixtures of acetone and dimethyl sulfoxide rather than 1-methyl-2-pyrrolidone due to the low toxicity of DMSO. Higher CO2 and liquid solution flow rates, higher pressures, lower temperatures and lower nozzle diameter are recommended for the formation of nanoparticles. The morphologies of the precipitates were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) were carried out in an effort to assess the possible loss of crystallinity and activity of the precipitates. The dissolution profiles of mangiferin were obtained in simulated fluids and processed mangiferin dissolved faster and had a higher solubility than the raw material. This situation would enable the use of mangiferin in pharmaceutical, cosmetic or nutraceutical applications.

The facile synthesis of Ni–Cu catalysts stabilized in SiO2 framework via a supercritical antisolvent approachOriginal Research Article
Abstract
   Ni–Cu catalysts with different SiO2 compositions were prepared via supercritical antisolvent (SAS) precipitation. The calcination and reduction of the SAS Ni–Cu catalysts were investigated by X-ray diffraction, SEM and TEM to determine the influence of various SiO2 contents on the Ni–Cu catalyst morphology. SiO2 addition (≥30 wt.%) prevents the sintering of metal particles and increases dispersion, specific surface area and accessibility of Ni–Cu particles. These Ni–Cu catalysts can be used for various processes, such as fast oil pyrolysis, aqueous-phase hydrodeoxygenation, and methane decomposition. The facile approach suggested opens unique opportunities for the synthesis of multicomponent metal supported catalysts with high active phase content (> 50 wt.%) of nanosized (< 10 nm) metal particles.

Analysis of optimal conditions for biodiesel production from Jatropha oil in supercritical methanol: Quantification of thermal decomposition degree and analysis of FAMEsOriginal Research Article
Abstract
   Recent years have seen great efforts made to optimise the production of biodiesel as an alternative to fossil fuel. This study looks at the optimal conditions for producing second generation biodiesel in supercritical methanol from Jatropha oil. Triglyceride conversion and the yield of monoglycerides, diglycerides and fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) are analysed for different ranges of temperature and time. The maximum conversion of triglycerides (100 wt%) and maximum yield of FAMEs (99.5 mol%) were achieved at 325 °C with a reaction time of 90 min. The thermal decomposition of the biodiesel produced was greatest (24.16%) at 350 °C and 90 min. Quantification of individual methyl esters showed that the fatty acid chains affected by temperature were those of oleic and linoleic acids. Finally, a lineal regression model was applied to predict the effect of temperature on the biodiesel produced.


     10th International Symposium on

Approximately 5,059 results found in the Worldwide database for:
supercritical fluid in the title or abstract
Only the first 500 results are displayed

Process for extracting active ingredients of traditional Chinese medicine in unit and combined type and device thereof  

　 Bibliographic data 　 　 Description 　 　 Claims 　 　
Publication number: CN101530674 (A)
Publication date: 2009-09-16
Inventor(s): YIJIN WANG [CN]; ZHENKUN WANG [CN] +
Applicant(s): YIJIN WANG [CN] +
Classification: 　
- international: B01D11/00; B01D11/00
- European: 　
Application number: CN20091094225 20090316 
Priority number(s): CN20091094225 20090316
　
　
Abstract of CN 101530674  (A)
Translate this tex
The invention belongs to highly effective extraction and separation of the active ingredients in field of modernization of Chinese medicine and is characterized in that on the basis of an extraction process and a device consisting of the combination of 3 novel chemical engineering unit operations of water percolation distillation, extractive distillation, and highly efficient az dist azeotropic distilation, the traditional and advanced techniques and devices for water distillation extraction, extraction by semi-bionic method, extraction by ultrasonic waves, extraction by enzyme process, extraction by microbial fermentation and extraction by microwave are preferably selected to constitute the unit and combined type extraction process and the device thereof; the process and the device of the invention is especially suitable for extracting the majority of single Chinese medicine or compound Chinese medicine with both volatile and non-volatile components; in addition the device operates stably with stable parameters; compared with the traditional multifunctional traditional Chinese medicine extracting tank, the tank of the invention features an extraction rate above 95% and energy conservation by over 50%, contraction of the production period by over 50%, reduction of production cost per unit product by 50% and stable content of active ingredients and product quality.
　
　

Technique and industrial device for refining rice by supercritical polybasic fluid  

　 Bibliographic data 　 　 Description 　 　 Claims 　 　 　
Publication number: CN101554211 (A)
Publication date: 2009-10-14
Inventor(s): ZHENKUN WANG [CN]; YIJIN WANG [CN] +
Applicant(s): YIJIN WANG [CN] +
Classification: 　
- international: A23L1/015; A23L1/015
- European: 　
Application number: CN20091060413 20090105 
Priority number(s): CN20091060413 20090105
　
　
Abstract of CN 101554211  (A)
Translate this text
The invention relates to a technique and an industrial device for refining rice by supercritical polybasic fluid, belonging to the field of refining rice by supercritical polybasic fluid. The invention is characterized in that the supercritical polybasic fluid industrial device with carbon-dioxide zero emission, with pressure less than 22 MPa and temperature less than 40 DEG C, pre-breaks wall of brown rice layer to be directly prepared as high-nutrient rice; meanwhile, harmful bacteria, mould and ova are killed, so that freshness date is prolonged and storage loss is reduced; impurities in the brown rice such as pesticide residue, heavy metal and dust are removed via ultrasonic and microwave extraction; the brown rice becomes good-looking and delicious by colouring and aromatizing; besides, anti-free-radical, anti-aging, anti-radiation and immunity-improving natural bioactive substances are uniformly added so as to improve health-care function and added value of the rice, further; thus, fresh and delicious rice with advantages of high nutrient, water saving, washing prevention and rapid cooking is produced, with yield being increased by more than 25%; the invention is executed and popularized widely in rice planting regions, thereby ensuring national food safety and international food safety.
　

Supercritical multicomponent fluid extraction rectifiers  

　 Bibliographic data 　 　 Description 　 　 Claims 　 　 Mosaics 　 　 　
Publication number: CN2561483 (Y)
Publication date: 2003-07-23
Inventor(s): WANG ZHENKUN [CN] +
Applicant(s): WANG ZHENKUN [CN] +
Classification: 　
- international: B01D3/40; B01D3/34; (IPC1-7): B01D3/40
- European: 　
Application number: CN20012004600U 20010228 
Priority number(s): CN20012004600U 20010228
　
　
Abstract of CN 2561483  (Y)
Translate this text
The utility model relates to a supercritical multi-component fluid extraction and distillation device for separating and refining multi-component organic compounds. The technology is characterized in that a rectification column (4) is arranged in a supercritical multi-component fluid extraction separator (2); part of the rectification column is in the supercritical multi-component fluid extraction separator and part is over the supercritical multi-component fluid extraction separator; a cyclone separator is arranged at the top of the rectification column. A series connection scheme is adopted. Main solvent carbon dioxide or nitrogen iodine is added with methanol, ethanol, acetone, acetic ether, heptane and other liquid of auxiliary solvent to carry out supercritical multi-component fluid extraction and distillation or the main solvent carbon dioxide or nitrogen iodine is added with ethylene, ethane, propane, propylene, butane, F# -[13] and other gas of auxiliary solvent to carry out supercritical multi-component fluid extraction and distillation.
　
　
　
　

Process and equipment for rectifying tobacco by supercritical multi-element fluid extraction  

　 Bibliographic data 　 　 Description 　 　 Claims 　 　 Mosaics 　 　 　
Publication number: CN1302568 (A)
Publication date: 2001-07-11
Inventor(s): WANG ZHENKUN [CN] +
Applicant(s): WANG ZHENKUN [CN] +
Classification: 　
- international: A24B15/00; A24B15/00; (IPC1-7): A24B15/00
- European: 　
Application number: CN20011004215 20010226 
Priority number(s): CN20011004215 20010226
Also published as:
　 CN1141044  (C) 　
　
　
Abstract of CN 1302568  (A)
Translate this text
A process and its equipment for supercritical polyatomic fluid of extractive rectification for the tobacco is to use the variation of the temperature and the pressure of the supercritical main solvent fluid with adding the different varieties of sub-solvents in different quantities to expand the volume of the tobacco by 5-20%, and then extractive rectification of aromatic pure oil, nicotine, solanesol, tobacco F-1-P, crystal protein, tobacco superoxide dismutase (SOD) selectively in steps to make the assence for the high-quality cigarette and plant high feed protein.
　

Overcritical multiple fluid tea-processing method and product thereof  

　 Bibliographic data 　 　 Description 　 　 Claims 　 　 Mosaics 　 　 　
Publication number: CN1141727 (A)
Publication date: 1997-02-05
Inventor(s): ZHENKUN WANG [CN] +
Applicant(s): WANG ZHENKUN [CN] +
Classification: 　
- international: A23F3/16; A23F3/30; A23F3/40; A23K1/16; A23L1/30; A23F3/00; A23F3/40; A23K1/16; A23L1/30; (IPC1-7): A23F3/16; A23F3/30; A23F3/40; A23K1/16; A23L1/30
- European: 　
Application number: CN19961005251 19960524 
Priority number(s): CN19961005251 19960524
Also published as:
　 CN1072446  (C) 　
　
　
Abstract of CN 1141727  (A)
Translate this text
The method for processing tea is characterized by that a set of super-critical CO2 extraction apparatus is used for such processes of changing pressure (8-32 MPa) and temp. (20-60 deg.C) for CO2; adding various fluids (N2, Ar, ethyl alcohol, methyl alcohol, acetone, ethyl alcohol acetate, etc. aqueous solutions with 40-90% concentrations or 1-50% (wt%) of betaine is added to the above-mentioned solutions) and its added quantity is 5-120% of circulating CO2 weight; firstly the tea leaf volume is swelled by 5-20%, then respectively the tea leaf is made into refined tea, tea liquor, caffeine, decaffeinated tea, scented tea, health-care tea, tea polyphenol, and additive for food or feed stuff.
　

DEODORIZATION AND FRESH-KEEPING OF POLLEN WITH SUPERCRITICAL CO2  

　 Bibliographic data 　 　 Description 　 　 Claims 　 　 　

Publication number: CN1052417 (A)
Publication date: 1991-06-26
Inventor(s): FUCHU LIU [CN]; ZHENKUN WANG [CN]; SHAOYU LI [CN] +
Applicant(s): CHEMICAL DEPARTMENT YUNNAN UNI [CN] +
Classification: 　
- international: A23B7/14; A23L1/015; A23L1/076; A23L3/34; A23B7/14; A23L1/015; A23L1/076; A23L3/34; (IPC1-7): A23L1/015; A23L1/076; A23L3/34
- European: 　
Application number: CN19891009382 19891214 
Priority number(s): CN19891009382 19891214
Also published as:
　 CN1031778  (C) 　
　
　
Abstract of CN 1052417  (A)
Translate this text
This invention relates to the technology for obtaining a deodorized fresh pollen with original bioactivity of enzyme and nutritive value, in which a high-effect adsorbent is used and CO2 flows through a supercritical flow extracting apparatus under the conditions of a temp less than 40 deg.C and a pressure of 6-22 MPa for continuous extraction and adsorption of pollen. The product can be stored for 6 months without obvious change and used for making a pollen food (pollen molasses).
　


Deutsch     Zusammenfassung von Patent

ca. 5.063 Treffer wurden in der Worldwide Datenbank gefunden für:
supercritical fluid im Titel oder Zusammenfassung
Nur die ersten 500 Treffer werden angezeigt.

Process for extracting active ingredients of traditional Chinese medicine in unit and combined type and device thereof  

　 Bibliographische Daten 　 　 Beschreibung 　 　 Patentansprüche 　 　 　
Veröffentlichungsnummer CN101530674 (A)
Veröffentlichungsdatum: 2009-09-16
Erfinder: YIJIN WANG [CN]; ZHENKUN WANG [CN] +
Anmelder: YIJIN WANG [CN] +
Klassifikation:  
- Internationale: B01D11/00; B01D11/00
- Europäische: 　
Anmeldenummer: CN20091094225 20090316 
Prioritätsnummer(n): CN20091094225 20090316
　
　
Zusammenfassung von CN 101530674  (A)

Technique and industrial device for refining rice by supercritical polybasic fluid  

　 Bibliographische Daten 　 　 Beschreibung 　 　 Patentansprüche 　 　 　
Veröffentlichungsnummer CN101554211 (A)
Veröffentlichungsdatum: 2009-10-14
Erfinder: ZHENKUN WANG [CN]; YIJIN WANG [CN] +
Anmelder: YIJIN WANG [CN] +
Klassifikation:  
- Internationale: A23L1/015; A23L1/015
- Europäische: 　
Anmeldenummer: CN20091060413 20090105 
Prioritätsnummer(n): CN20091060413 20090105
   
 
　
Zusammenfassung von CN 101554211  (A)

Supercritical multicomponent fluid extraction rectifiers  

　 Bibliographische Daten 　 　 Beschreibung 　 　 Patentansprüche 　 　 Mosaik 　 　 　
Veröffentlichungsnummer CN2561483 (Y)
Veröffentlichungsdatum: 2003-07-23
Erfinder: WANG ZHENKUN [CN] +
Anmelder: WANG ZHENKUN [CN] +
Klassifikation:  
- Internationale: B01D3/40; B01D3/34; (IPC1-7): B01D3/40
- Europäische: 　
Anmeldenummer: CN20012004600U 20010228 
Prioritätsnummer(n): CN20012004600U 20010228
 
　
Zusammenfassung von CN 2561483  (Y)

Process and equipment for rectifying tobacco by supercritical multi-element fluid extraction  

　 Bibliographische Daten 　 　 Beschreibung 　 　 Patentansprüche 　 　 Mosaik 　 　 　
Veröffentlichungsnummer CN1302568 (A)
Veröffentlichungsdatum: 2001-07-11
Erfinder: WANG ZHENKUN [CN] +
Anmelder: WANG ZHENKUN [CN] +
Klassifikation:  
- Internationale: A24B15/00; A24B15/00; (IPC1-7): A24B15/00
- Europäische: 　
Anmeldenummer: CN20011004215 20010226 
Prioritätsnummer(n): CN20011004215 20010226
Auch veröffentlicht als
　 CN1141044  (C) 　
　
　
Zusammenfassung von CN 1302568  (A)

Overcritical multiple fluid tea-processing method and product thereof  

　 Bibliographische Daten 　 　 Beschreibung 　 　 Patentansprüche 　 　 Mosaik 　 　
Veröffentlichungsnummer CN1141727 (A)
Veröffentlichungsdatum: 1997-02-05
Erfinder: ZHENKUN WANG [CN] +
Anmelder: WANG ZHENKUN [CN] +
Klassifikation:  
- Internationale: A23F3/16; A23F3/30; A23F3/40; A23K1/16; A23L1/30; A23F3/00; A23F3/40; A23K1/16; A23L1/30; (IPC1-7): A23F3/16; A23F3/30; A23F3/40; A23K1/16; A23L1/30
- Europäische: 　
Anmeldenummer: CN19961005251 19960524 
Prioritätsnummer(n): CN19961005251 19960524
Auch veröffentlicht als
　 CN1072446  (C) 　
　
　
Zusammenfassung von CN 1141727  (A)

DEODORIZATION AND FRESH-KEEPING OF POLLEN WITH SUPERCRITICAL CO2  

　 Bibliographische Daten 　 　 Beschreibung 　 　 Patentansprüche 　 　 　
Veröffentlichungsnummer CN1052417 (A)
Veröffentlichungsdatum: 1991-06-26
Erfinder: FUCHU LIU [CN]; ZHENKUN WANG [CN]; SHAOYU LI [CN] +
Anmelder: CHEMICAL DEPARTMENT YUNNAN UNI [CN] +
Klassifikation:  
- Internationale: A23B7/14; A23L1/015; A23L1/076; A23L3/34; A23B7/14; A23L1/015; A23L1/076; A23L3/34; (IPC1-7): A23L1/015; A23L1/076; A23L3/34
- Europäische: 　
Anmeldenummer: CN19891009382 19891214 
Prioritätsnummer(n): CN19891009382 19891214
Auch veröffentlicht als
  CN1031778  (C)  
 
　
Zusammenfassung von CN 1052417  (A)

 François       Approximativement 5 063 résultats ont été trouvés dans la base de données Worldwide pour:
supercritical fluid dans le titre ou abrégé
Seuls les 500 premiers résultats sont affichés

Process for extracting active ingredients of traditional Chinese medicine in unit and combined type and device thereof  

  Données bibliographiques     Description     Revendications     　
Numéro de publication: CN101530674 (A)
Date de publication: 2009-09-16
Inventeur(s) YIJIN WANG [CN]; ZHENKUN WANG [CN] +
Demandeur(s) YIJIN WANG [CN] +
Classification:  
- internationale B01D11/00; B01D11/00
- européenne 　
Numéro de demande CN20091094225 20090316 
Numéro(s) de priorité: CN20091094225 20090316
　
　
Abrégé pour CN 101530674  (A)

Technique and industrial device for refining rice by supercritical polybasic fluid  

　 Données bibliographiques 　 　 Description 　 　 Revendications 　 　
Numéro de publication: CN101554211 (A)
Date de publication: 2009-10-14
Inventeur(s) ZHENKUN WANG [CN]; YIJIN WANG [CN] +
Demandeur(s) YIJIN WANG [CN] +
Classification:  
- internationale A23L1/015; A23L1/015
- européenne 　
Numéro de demande CN20091060413 20090105 
Numéro(s) de priorité: CN20091060413 20090105
 
　
Abrégé pour CN 101554211  (A)

Supercritical multicomponent fluid extraction rectifiers  

　 Données bibliographiques 　 　 Description 　 　 Revendications 　 　 Mosaïque 　 　 Document original 　 　 Situation juridique INPADOC 　
Numéro de publication: CN2561483 (Y)
Date de publication: 2003-07-23
Inventeur(s) WANG ZHENKUN [CN] +
Demandeur(s) WANG ZHENKUN [CN] +
Classification:  
- internationale B01D3/40; B01D3/34; (IPC1-7): B01D3/40
- européenne 　
Numéro de demande CN20012004600U 20010228 
Numéro(s) de priorité: CN20012004600U 20010228
　
　
Abrégé pour CN 2561483  (Y)

Process and equipment for rectifying tobacco by supercritical multi-element fluid extraction  

　 Données bibliographiques     Description     Revendications     Mosaïque    
Numéro de publication: CN1302568 (A)
Date de publication: 2001-07-11
Inventeur(s) WANG ZHENKUN [CN] +
Demandeur(s) WANG ZHENKUN [CN] +
Classification:  
- internationale A24B15/00; A24B15/00; (IPC1-7): A24B15/00
- européenne 　
Numéro de demande CN20011004215 20010226 
Numéro(s) de priorité: CN20011004215 20010226
Également publié en tant que:
  CN1141044  (C)  
　
　
Abrégé pour CN 1302568  (A)

Overcritical multiple fluid tea-processing method and product thereof  

　 Données bibliographiques 　 　 Description 　 　 Revendications 　 　 Mosaïque 　 　 　

Numéro de publication: CN1141727 (A)
Date de publication: 1997-02-05
Inventeur(s) ZHENKUN WANG [CN] +
Demandeur(s) WANG ZHENKUN [CN] +
Classification:  
- internationale A23F3/16; A23F3/30; A23F3/40; A23K1/16; A23L1/30; A23F3/00; A23F3/40; A23K1/16; A23L1/30; (IPC1-7): A23F3/16; A23F3/30; A23F3/40; A23K1/16; A23L1/30
- européenne 　
Numéro de demande CN19961005251 19960524 
Numéro(s) de priorité: CN19961005251 19960524
Également publié en tant que:
  CN1072446  (C)  
 
　
Abrégé pour CN 1141727  (A)

DEODORIZATION AND FRESH-KEEPING OF POLLEN WITH SUPERCRITICAL CO2  

  Données bibliographiques     Description     Revendications     　
Numéro de publication: CN1052417 (A)
Date de publication: 1991-06-26
Inventeur(s) FUCHU LIU [CN]; ZHENKUN WANG [CN]; SHAOYU LI [CN] +
Demandeur(s) CHEMICAL DEPARTMENT YUNNAN UNI [CN] +
Classification:  
- internationale A23B7/14; A23L1/015; A23L1/076; A23L3/34; A23B7/14; A23L1/015; A23L1/076; A23L3/34; (IPC1-7): A23L1/015; A23L1/076; A23L3/34
- européenne 　
Numéro de demande CN19891009382 19891214 
Numéro(s) de priorité: CN19891009382 19891214
Également publié en tant que:
  CN1031778  (C)  
 
　
Abrégé pour CN 1052417  (A)

===========================================================================
▲Meet the Industrial Revolution of 21st Century New Technology of Supercritical
(Wang Zhen kun. Chemical Industry and Engineering Progress,2001,(3),21～23)
Abstract  In this paper the new technological developments which took place at home and abroad in the field of supercritical fluid were objectively introduced, and the paper laid particular stress on the commercial utilization of supercritical fluid technology in wasted development.
Key words  supercritical fluid, new technology, industrial revolution
(Yunnan Asia-Pacific ZhiXing Bio-Engineering Institute.Kunming650032)  
 ▲ Technology of Supercritical Fluid Separation for Refining Bee Products (Wang Zhen-kun ) 1992/11/10
 Supercritical Fluid Separation Technique — a kind of separation engineer method of high science and technology widely adopted in biotechnology nowadays and in the future, is used in bee product processing. Its characteristics is that the stink and fishy smell of the bee products can be removed, the sterilization rate reaches 80-98%, the rate of biochemical remains 95-105%, and it also can selectively get biochemical products with extra high value including Flavones. Steroids, Sex hormones, Lipoid and natural Barssinolides. Bee products processed by this technique are ideal health care food and medicine.  So, the technology is the best method used in comprehensively developing and utilizing bee products, and the pioneer in the world. It has been applied for China Patent Protection. (The Patent Application N0.89109382.6, The Invention Patent Public No.CN1052417A)
  ▲ Supercritical fluids refined bee products (wang Zhen-kun)1993/05/10
Abstract: The technology of supercritical CO2 fluid refining of bee pollen. It is the first approach according to the international computer looking up. This inventive patent has pushed the bee pollen's development to a high level. Now it has been listed in Torch Project of high technology in 1993. The  Supercritical CO2  means CO2 exceeds its critical temperature (31°C) and its critical pressure (7.3MPA). It appears as a fluid of neither liquid nor gas phase. The advantage of using this technology in processing bee pollen is capable of selective remove the stinking smell and sex hormones; It has also the function of preliminary breaking of cell wall, it may kill 85-98% pathogenic bacteria and in the mean-while, it may keep pollen's bioactivity at 85-105%(part of enzyme activity is elevated). Particularly, the enzymatic activities of the bee products processing with supercritical fluid technique below 40°C is much higher than that ones produced both domestic and abroad. Bee pollen contains more enzymes. It is known that the deficiency of any enzyme may affect normal physiological activity, thus this series of products have miraculous effect to human body. Its biological effects are: to promote the immune capability of the body, ant fatigue, to improve brain function, to strengthen memory, to prevent the plateau, to regulate endocrines, prophylaxis of influenza. In addition, it may prevent cardio cerebral vascular diseases. There are also some auxiliary therapeutic action to chronic gastric intestinal disorders, prostate gland diseases, diabetes, occupational diseases, and neurasthenia, injury due to chemotherapy and irradiation and leucopoenia.[Apimondia 33rd International congress of Apiculture P-365]
   ▲ Isolation of sex-hormones in the hive products (Wang Zhen-kun, Lu Ming-yi, Tian kun)1993/5/11 [Apimondia 33rd International congress of Apiculture P-364]
 Abstract: Pollen Royal jelly, Larva of queen bee, and drone pupa etc.  They are bee products. A series of nutritional, health protection, facial protection and to improve women's looking, to promise longevity, brain tonic and to promote intelligence and to sexual functions, prevention of cancer and many other diseases products have been developed both domestic and abroad. Owing to these products go on markets, some clinical cases of children's sex premature were reported. Analysis shows that trace amount of sex hormones are contained in bee products. Animal tests confirmed this fact; Mice in testing group show earlier growth of sex organs. People consider that, for the women during the age period of fertility, it may cause the activation of ontogeny after administration for a long time. This attracts attention of the society, because no ideal techniques to remove sex-hormones at present, the press circle of the society consider that it is more safe to remove sex-hormones at present, the press circle of the society consider that it is more safe to remove sex-hormones from the bee products. If the traditional method of extract on of them by organic solvents to remove steroids, quinines, coumarone and lactones is adapted, it may damage above 80% enzyme activity. In order to   protect the enzyme activity above 80%, we used the technique of supercritical fluid extraction and RIA(radio-immune- assay) to remove testosterone one. Estrada and progesterone. The results show 85-105% enzymatic activities are removed. In combination with other drugs, the bee products promote memory and to increase the capacity of anti-anoxia, to regulate endocrine secretion, to promote sexual functions, to promise longevity. RIA is an ultra-micro, simple and specific assay method, which is necessary in this technique.
      Latest Abstract

★Food Control, Volume 16, Issue 1, January 2005, Pages 59-64
Supercritical fluid  extraction and high-performance liquid chromatography-fluorescence detection method for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons investigation in vegetable oil
Abstract:In spite of the fact that food processes, that involve drying and smoking, may cause polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon contamination, an extraction clean/up procedure carried out by SFE was developed in order to isolate polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons from oil vegetable samples for subsequent HPLC-FL determination. The detection and quantification limits obtained were <1.55 small mu, Greekg kg −1 oil and <2.55 small mu, Greekg kg−1 oil, respectively, allowed to check the presence of seven of the eight PAHs with legal limit in olive-pomace oil: benzo[a]anthracene, benzo[e]pyrene, benzo[b]fluoranthene, benzo[k]fluoranthene, benzo[a]pyrene, dibenzo[ah]anthracene and benzo[ghi]perilene. In brief, the method permits the evaluation of edible oil safety and, therefore, consumers protection.
★Talanta, Volume 64, Issue 2, 8 October 2004, Pages 491-495
Comparison of supercritical fluid and Soxhlet extractions for the quantification of hydrocarbons from Euphorbia macroclada
Abstract:This study compares conventional Soxhlet extraction and analytical scale  supercritical fluid  extraction (SFE) for their yields in extracting of hydrocarbons from arid-land plant Euphorbia macroclada. The plant material was firstly sequentially extracted with  supercritical  carbon dioxide, modified with 10% methanol (v/v) in the optimum conditions that is a pressure of 400 atm and a temperature of 50 °C and then it was sonicated in methylene chloride for an additional 4 h. E. macroclada was secondly extracted by using a Soxhlet apparatus at 30 °C for 8 h in methylene chloride. The validated SFE was then compared to the extraction yield of E. macroclada with a Soxhlet extraction by using the Student's t-test at the 95% confidence level. All of extracts were fractionated with silica-gel in a glass column to get better hydrocarbon yields. Thus, the highest hydrocarbons yield from E. macroclada was achieved with SFE (5.8%) when it compared with Soxhlet extractions (1.1%). Gas chromatography (GC) analysis was performed to determine the quantitative hydrocarbons from plant material. The greatest quantitative hydrocarbon recovery from GC was obtained by  supercritical  carbon dioxide extract (0.6 mg g?1).
★Journal of Chromatography B
Volume 809, Issue 2 , 5 October 2004, Pages 231-235
Rapid, automated screening method for enzymatic transformations using a robotic system and supercritical fluid chromatography
Abstract:An automated screening method was developed for enzymatic transformations using a robotic system and rapid chiral  supercritical fluid  chromatography (SFC) analysis with a run time of 1.5 min. The method accelerates the enzyme selection process for screening biocatalysts, where a large number of enzymes are evaluated for activity and enantioselectivity. Kinetic resolution of secondary alcohols by enzymatic transesterification was used as a prototype for method development. The rapid automated method can be used effectively for screening enzymes and optimizing reaction conditions in biocatalysis.
★Dyes and Pigments
Volume 63, Issue 1 , October 2004, Pages 77-81
Evaluation of the dyeing mechanism of an acid dye on protein fibers in supercritical CO2
Abstract:The dyeing mechanism of an acid dye on protein fibers in  supercritical  CO2 has been investigated. The reverse micellar system comprising pentaethylene glycol n-octyl ether (C8E5)/1-pentanol has been applied for the solubilization of an acid dye and the subsequent dyeing of protein fibers in  supercritical  CO2. Quantitative measurements of the concentrated dye  fluid  in  supercritical  CO2 could be achieved by the application of integrated Lambert-Beer method. It has been found that the differences of the pressure in the system have great influence on the molar extinction coefficient ( ) of an acid dye solubilized in the interior of the reverse micelle in  supercritical  CO2. Adsorption manner of an acid dye on protein fibers in  supercritical  CO2 was similar to that in an aqueous system and followed a Langmuir manne
★Fuel
Volume 83, Issues 14-15 , October 2004, Pages 1881-1887
East Meets West on Heavy Oil Technology Symposium
A study of asphaltene solubility and precipitation
Abstract:The effects of diluent composition on asphaltene precipitation from Cold Lake vacuum residue and Athabasca atmospheric tower bottoms were determined using the hot filtration method at 60-85 °C. For selected mixtures the temperature range was extended to 300 °C. The diluents include pure n-alkanes, a lube oil base-stock, a heavy vacuum gas oil and a resin-enriched fraction recovered from Cold Lake vacuum residue by supercritical fluid  extraction and fractionation. The latter three complex diluents were tested alone and in blends, in order to cover a range of saturates from 56 to 99.4 wt%, aromatics from 0.6 to 25 wt%, and resins from 0 to 19 wt%. The scaling equation proposed by Rassamdana et al. [1] in which the weight percent of asphaltenes precipitated is expressed as a function of alkane to feed ratio, and the alkane molecular mass, gave good agreement with the data for the pure alkane diluents. For the more complex diluents, an extension to the scaling equation was developed with two additional variables (the density and saturate content of the diluents). This equation provided good agreement with the data over a wide range of diluent to feed ratios. By the addition of the colloidal instability index of the feed oil into the variables of the scaling equation, the precipitation data from the two different feed oils could be correlated.
★Fuel
Volume 83, Issues 14-15 , October 2004, Pages 2029-2033
East Meets West on Heavy Oil Technology Symposium
Synthesis of biodiesel in supercritical fluids
Abstract:Biodiesel, an alternative biodegradable diesel fuel, is derived from triglycerides by transesterification with alcohols. In this work, the transesterification of sunflower oil was investigated in  supercritical  methanol and  supercritical  ethanol at various temperatures (200-400 °C) at 200 bar. The rate coefficients and the activation energies of the reaction were also determined. Biodiesel was also enzymatically synthesized in  supercritical  carbon dioxide. The effect of enzyme loading, oil to alcohol ratio, reaction time and temperature was investigated. While nearly complete conversions were obtained for the thermal reactions in  supercritical  methanol and ethanol, only 30% conversions were obtained in the enzyme-catalyzed reactions in  supercritical  carbon dioxide.
★Journal of Catalysis
Volume 226, Issue 2 , 10 September 2004, Pages 435-442
Partial aerial oxidation of nonpolar alcohols over Teflon-modified noble metal catalysts in supercritical  carbon dioxide
Abstract:We have reported earlier that modification of commercial graphite Pt-supported catalysts with Teflon fluorinated polymeric coating of a very strong hydrophobic nature can significantly improve catalytic activity for aerial oxidation of water-insoluble alcohols such as anthracene methanol in  supercritical  carbon dioxide (scCO2). Thus, this paper presents some further characterization of these new catalyst materials and the working  fluid  phase during the catalysis. Using the same Teflon-modified metal catalysts, this paper addresses the oxidation of another water-insoluble alcohol molecule, m-hydrobenzoin in scCO2. It is found that conversion and product distribution of this diol oxidation critically depend on the temperature and pressure of the scCO2 used, which suggest the remarkable solvent properties of the scCO2 under these unconventional oxidation conditions
★Journal of Membrane Science
Volume 240, Issues 1-2 , 1 September 2004, Pages 187-195
Formation of cellulose acetate membranes using a supercritical fluid  assisted process
Abstract:Microporous cellulose acetate membranes have been prepared from polymer-acetone solutions using a  supercritical fluid  phase inversion process in which CO2 acts as the non-solvent. Series of experiments were performed at various polymer concentrations, temperatures and pressures. The structure of the resulting membranes was analysed using scanning electron microscopy. We operated with polymer concentrations ranging between 5 and 40% (w/w) in acetone obtaining different pore dimensions and membrane structures. Increasing the percentage of polymer in the solution, the structure of the membranes changed from beads-like structure to cellular structure. Polymer concentration also influenced the mean diameter of the pores that ranged from 2 to 50  m for polymer concentrations from 40 to 5% (w/w). We also tested membrane formation pressures between 100 and 200 bar and at temperature between 45 and 65 °C. Pressure influences the change in membrane structure from cellular to beads-like, whereas temperature has a minor influence on pore size: both the effects can be partially related to CO2 density. Cellulose acetate membrane formation mechanisms have also been discussed.
★Geochimica et Cosmochimica Acta
Volume 68, Issue 17 , 1 September 2004, Pages 3557-3567
Experimental determination of the activity-composition relations and phase equilibria of H2O-CO2-NaCl fluids  at 500°C, 500 bars 1
Abstract:An understanding of the activity-composition (a-X) relations and phase equilibria of halite-bearing, mixed-species  supercritical fluids  is critically important in many geological and industrial applications. We have performed experiments on H2O-CO2-NaCl  fluids  at 500°C, 500 bar, to obtain accurate and precise data on their a-X relations and phase equilibria. Two kinds of experiments were performed. First, H2O-CO2-NaCl samples were reacted at fixed activities of H2O = 0.078, 0.350, 0.425, 0.448, 0.553, 0.560, 0.606, 0.678, 0.798, 0.841, and 0.935 to define the tie lines of known H2O activity in the halite-vapor and vapor-brine fields. Results indicate that  fluids  with all but the last of these H2O activities lie in the vapor-halite two-phase region and that a  fluid  with aH2O = 0.841 has a composition close to the three-phase (vapor + brine + halite) field. A second set of experiments was performed to determine the solubility of NaCl in parts of the system in equilibrium with halite. Data from these experiments suggest that the vapor corner of the three-phase field lies at H2O contents above XH2O = 0.58 and XNaCl = 0.06, and below XH2O = 0.75 and XNaCl = 0.06, which is a significantly more H2O-rich composition than indicated by existing thermodynamic models.
★Food and Chemical Toxicology, In Press, Corrected Proof, Available online 23 August 2004,
Safety evaluation of a triterpenoid-rich extract from bamboo shavings
Abstract:Triterpenoids, which may have significant application to the development of natural medicines and functional foods as biological active components, are widely distributed throughout the plant kingdom. This paper evaluated the safety of a triterpenoid-rich extract of bamboo shavings (EBS) systematically. (i) Acute toxicity test: The oral maximum tolerated dose of EBS was more than 10 g/kg body weight both in rats and in mice, due to the absence of toxicity according to the criteria of acute toxic classifications. (ii) Mutagenicity test: It had no mutagenicity judged by negative experimental results of Ames test, mouse bone marrow cell micronucleus test and mouse sperm abnormality test. (iii) 30 days feeding study: No abnormal symptoms and clinical signs or deaths had been found in rats in each group during the test. No significant difference had been found in body weight, food consumption and food availability of rats in each test group (P > 0.05). In addition, no significant differences were found in each hematology value, clinical chemistry value and organ/body weight ratio, either (P > 0.05). No abnormality of any organ was found during histopathological examination. It can be concluded that the extract of bamboo shavings is of low toxicity and support the use of EBS for various foods.★Applied Numerical Mathematics, In Press, Corrected Proof, Available online 23 August 2004,
Abstract:Supercritical fluids  represent an active field of research, interesting from the theoretical point of view, and for industrial applications. We describe a numerical method for the simulation of  supercritical fluid  flow phenomena, valid for a general real gas equation of state. Three state equations (van der Waals, Carnahan-Starling-De Santis, Redlich-Kwong), describing the thermodynamic behavior of a gas near its critical point are implemented. Numerical tests in the case of the flow through a nozzle and the shock tube problem, show the reliability of the numerical scheme. The response of a  supercritical fluid  confined into a slab with closed ends, initially at rest in thermodynamic equilibrium, when one boundary is heated, termed Piston effect, is also investigated.
★International Journal of Pharmaceutics
Volume 281, Issues 1-2 , 20 August 2004, Pages 55-66
Evaluation of SCF-engineered particle-based lactose blends in passive dry powder inhalers
Abstract:The objective of this study was to assess the performance of SCF-engineered budesonide and albuterol sulfate powder blends in passive dry powder inhalers (DPI) relative to micronized drug blends. A number of lactose grades for inhalation were screened and the appropriate carrier and drug-to-lactose blending ratio were selected based on drug content and emitted dose uniformity. Aerosol performance was characterized by Andersen cascade impaction. Blend formulations of SEDS (solution enhanced dispersion by supercritical fluids)  budesonide and albuterol exhibited a significant drug content uniformity (7-9% RSD) improvement over micronized drug blends (16-20% RSD). Further, the SEDS formulations demonstrated higher emitted dose and reduced emitted dose variability (10-12% RSD) compared to micronized powders (21-25% RSD) in the Turbospin, albeit without significant enhancement of the fine particle fraction. In contrast, SEDS powders exhibited increased fine particle fractions over micronized blends in the Clickhaler; improvements were more pronounced with albuterol sulfate. The performance enhancements observed with the SEDS powders are attributed to their increased surface smoothness and reduced surface energy that are presumed to minimize irreversible drug-carrier particle interactions, thus resulting in more efficient drug detachment from the carrier particle surface during aerosolization. As demonstrated for budesonide and albuterol, SEDS may enhance performance of lactose blends and thus provide an attractive particle engineering option for the development of blend formulations for inhalation delivery.
★Journal of Controlled Release, In Press, Corrected Proof, Available online 20 August 2004,
The production of protein-loaded microparticles by supercritical fluid enhanced mixing and spraying
Abstract:In this study, we use  supercritical  carbon dioxide as a processing medium for the fabrication of poly(DL-lactic acid) P(DLLA) microparticles that encapsulate a protein material. We have previously demonstrated that this polymer and a dry powder of a protein can be mixed under  supercritical  carbon dioxide conditions (above 31.1 °C and 73.8 bar) and that the protein component retains its biological activity. In this paper, we progress the work to demonstrate that the plasticized polymer and dry powder protein mixture can be sprayed to form solid polymer particles that encapsulate the protein. Particle size range is between 10 and 300 μm after spraying. Ribonuclease A and lysozyme were encapsulated in the polymer without significant loss of enzymatic activity. Biological assays of insulin and calcitonin confirm retention of activity after fabrication of the microparticles and release of the peptides/proteins.
★Journal of Chromatography A, In Press, Corrected Proof, Available online 19 August 2004,
Supercritical fluid  extraction for pesticide multiresidue analysis in honey: determination by gas chromatography with electron-capture and mass spectrometry detection
Abstract:An analytical procedure using  supercritical fluid  extraction (SFE) and capillary gas chromatography with electron-capture detection was developed to determine simultaneously residues of different pesticides (organochlorine, organophosphorus, organonitrogen and pyrethroid) in honey samples. Fortification experiments were conducted to test conventional extraction (liquid-liquid) and optimize the extraction procedure in SFE by varying the CO2-modifier, temperature, extraction time and pressure. Best efficiency was achieved at 400 bar using acetonitrile as modifier at 90 °C. For the clean-up step, Florisil cartridges were used for both methods LLE and SFE. Recoveries for majority of pesticides from fortified samples of honey at fortification level of 0.01-0.10 mg/kg ranged 75-94% from both methods. Limits of detection found were less than 0.01 mg/kg for ECD and confirmation of pesticide identity was performed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry in selected-ion monitoring mode. The multiresidue methods in real honey samples were applied and the results of developed methods were compared.
★Surface and Coatings Technology, In Press, Corrected Proof, Available online 17 August 2004,
Supercritical fluid  immersion deposition: a new process for selective deposition of metal films on silicon substrates
Abstract:Supercritical  CO2 is used as a new solvent for immersion deposition, a galvanic displacement process traditionally carried out in aqueous HF solutions containing metal ions, to selectively develop metal films on silicon substrates. Components of  supercritical fluid  immersion deposition (SFID) solutions for fabricating Cu and Pd films on silicon substrates are described along with the corresponding experimental setup and procedures. Through this method, only silicon surfaces exposed to SFID solutions can be coated. The highly pressurized and gas-like  supercritical  CO2, combined with the galvanic displacement property of immersion deposition, enables the SFID technique to deposit metal films selectively in small features. Annealing of thin palladium films deposited by SFID can lead to the formation of palladium silicide in small features on silicon substrates.
★The Journal of Supercritical Fluids, In Press, Corrected Proof, Available online 17 August 2004,
Morphological changes of polycaprolactone with high-pressure CO2 treatment
Abstract:Morphological changes of semicrystalline polycaprolactone (PCL), induced by melting under high-pressure CO2 and recrystallization during depressurization, were investigated by DSC and SAXS. Isothermal CO2 condition at 35 °C and nonisothermal condition at a cooling rate of 0.5 °C/min from 90 to 30 °C were both studied at pressures of 36, 84, and 304 atm. At 35 °C, the semicrystalline PCL having melting temperature of about 60 °C was found to melt under CO2 at 84 and 304 atm, except at 36 atm. The CO2-assisted melting of PCL recrystallized during depressurization of CO2, resulting in a varied thickness of crystal layers. The thickness of the formed crystal layers decreased with increasing CO2 pressures. Moreover, heterogeneity, with a size larger than the thickness of the crystalline and amorphous layers, was found to form in the PCL sample after CO2 treatments as observed by SAXS and supported by DSC data. This heterogeneous morphology of PCL formed during CO2 depressurization might arise from the segregated amorphous domains that were located between bundles of the lamellar stacks and/or arise from lamellar stacks that had considerably different sizes, possibly as a result of the molecular dragging and/or molecular fractionation on PCL during depressurization of the PCL-interacted CO2.
★Fluid Phase Equilibria
Volumes 222-223 , 15 August 2004, Pages 119-125
Influence of co-solvent on dye solubility in supercritical  carbon dioxide
Abstract:It is experimentally evident that the solubility of non-volatile solid such as disperse dye in  supercritical fluid  is significantly increased by adding a small amount of co-solvent into the  fluid.  The phase equilibrium calculation for the ternary system composed of  supercritical fluid,  solute and co-solvent is established by using the expanded liquid model based on regular solution coupled with Flory-Huggins theory. The solubility of non-volatile solid in mixed  fluid  including co-solvent is correlated with the liquid model with good accuracy. The model needs only the melting point and heat of fusion for non-volatile solid such as disperse dye that can be measured or be available in literature. But the critical properties and the vapor pressure of the solid that are necessary to estimate the phase equilibrium at high pressure by using an equation of state are not required in this model.
★Fluid Phase Equilibria
Volumes 222-223 , 15 August 2004, Pages 247-254
Conformations of homopolymer chains and their phase behavior in a simple supercritical  solvent
Abstract:Using a simple molecular model and the configurational-bias Monte Carlo method combined with the parallel tempering technique, solvent driven changes in conformations of a homopolymer chain in a simple  supercritical  solvent are systematically investigated. The solvent is modelled as a square-well  fluid,  and two types of chain are considered: the flexible chain of tangentially touching (i) hard spheres (purely repulsive chain) and (ii) square-well spheres (purely attractive chain). The mean square end-to-end distance and radius of gyration are the main quantities computed and used to characterize the changes in conformations in dependence on the temperature and density of the solvent. It is found that the attractive chain exhibits both the upper and lower critical solution temperatures, whereas the repulsive chain exhibits only the upper critical solution temperature.
★Cryogenics, In Press, Corrected Proof, Available online 14 August 2004,
Numerical simulation for the Piston effect and thermal diffusion observed in supercritical  nitrogen
Abstract:Heat transport mechanism in  supercritical  nitrogen near the pseudo-critical line is investigated using a two-dimensional calculation model that is a rectangular cavity with a horizontal heated wall located at the top. The thermo- fluid  dynamics equations are solved directly using the finite difference method. The calculation results qualitatively agree with the experimental results, which were obtained using a laser holography interferometer. It is verified that thermal energy is propagated by the Piston effect around the pseudo-critical line.
★Journal of Chromatography A
Volume 1046, Issues 1-2 , 13 August 2004, Pages 249-253
Chiral separation of some triazole pesticides by supercritical fluid  chromatography
Abstract:The enantiomeric separation of six triazole pesticides: cyproconazole, propiconazole, diniconazole, hexaconazole, tebuconazole and tetraconazole, using  supercritical fluid  chromatography and the Chiralpak AD column, is presented in this work. The effect of different organic modifiers such as methanol, ethanol and 2-propanol on the retention and resolution was studied as well as the presence of additives in the mobile phase. The results obtained were highly successful, all the compounds were enantiomerically separated and in most of the cases the analysis time was close to 10 min. The type of organic modifier that provided the best results depended on the compound.
★Journal of Controlled Release, In Press, Corrected Proof, Available online 10 August 2004,
Evaluation of drug delivery characteristics of microspheres of PMMA-PCL-cholesterol obtained by supercritical -CO2 impregnation and by dissolution-evaporation techniques
Abstract:Poly(methyl methacrylate), PMMA, and of PMMA/Poly( -caprolactone), PCL, microspheres were loaded with different amounts of cholesterol by using a  supercritical  carbon dioxide (SC-CO2) impregnation process in order to use a clean technique with the absence of organic solvents, and to provide information for the infusion of additives into nonporous polymeric substrates. A conventional dissolution-evaporation method was also used to obtain PMMA and PMMA-PCL microparticles loaded with cholesterol. The obtained microspheres were characterized by environmental scanning electronic microscope, ESEM, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, NMR, and differential scanning calorimetry, DSC, thermal analysis. A comparison of drug release from particles obtained using both methods, the  supercritical  and the conventional, is presented
★Journal of Chromatography B, In Press, Corrected Proof, Available online 9 August 2004,
Separation methods for antibacterial and antirheumatism agents in plant medicines
Abstract:Traditional oriental medicines (TOM), with a very long history and many remarkable features, are very popular in Asian countries, especially in China, Japan and Korea. With the development of advanced analytical techniques, the modernization of traditional medicine has become a hot area in recent years and some herbal medicines have been increasingly accepted in western countries. Separation and determination of active components in various herbal medicines are considered to be critical for the modernization process. Antibacterial and antirheumatism agents are widely distributed in many medical plants and commonly used in clinical treatment. Therefore, the development of effective separation methods for the quality control of herbal medicines is absolutely important. In this article, the separation methods for the analysis of antibacterial and antirheumatism compounds in TOM were reviewed, including thin layer chromatography (TLC), gas chromatography (GC), supercritical fluid  chromatography (SFC), high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), capillary electrophoresis (CE) and related hyphenation techniques. Sample preparation procedures and further development of these methods were also discussed.
★Talanta
Volume 63, Issue 5 , 8 August 2004, Pages 1101-1113
Automated sample preparation-fractionation for the measurement of dioxins and related compounds in biological matrices: a review
Abstract:This article reviews some of the recent developments in the extraction and clean-up areas of biological samples dedicated to dioxin and related compound analysis. A brief introduction on the major dioxin contamination events, which have occurred in the food chain, is given to illustrate the need of fast high throughput methods in case of crises. The emphasis of this paper is the method development based upon reliable instrumental extraction techniques for rapid sample processing and automation such as; supercritical fluid  extraction (SFE), microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), pressurized liquid extraction (PLE) and, solid-phase extraction (SPE). The PLE and SPE are also discussed in conjunction with the use of a multi-column automated clean-up system that can accommodate up to 5 g of extracted lipids. The fractionation in sub-groups of analytes during the clean-up process allows the isolation of various types of toxicants from a single sample and illustrates the versatility of the system. An integrated extraction and clean-up instrument is finally presented in terms of feasibility and attainable sample turnover for the parallel processing of liquid and solid biological samples.
☆Polymer Degradation and Stability, In Press, Corrected Proof, Available online 4 August 2004,
Study on depolymerisation of poly(trimethylene terephthalate) in supercritical  methanol by GPC-HPLC-IR
Abstract:The degradation behaviour of poly(trimethylene terephthalate) (PTT) in  supercritical  methanol was investigated to develop a chemical recycling process for waste plastics. GPC and HPLC combined with FTIR spectrometry were applied to qualitative and quantitative analysis of products. DMT, MHPT, BHPT, MHET, BHET and HEHPT were found to be the main reaction products. The yields of monomer components are strongly consistent with the bond energy differences in the repeat unit. The detailed reaction process was discussed based on the experimental data. Further investigation indicates that the complex characteristic of  supercritical fluids  and impurities in raw materials can result complication in products.
★Chemical Geology, In Press, Corrected Proof, Available online 3 August 2004,
Compositions of magmatic hydrothermal fluids  determined by LA-ICP-MS of  fluid  inclusions from the porphyry copper-molybdenum deposit at Butte, MT
Abstract:We analyzed 85  fluid  inclusions from seven samples from the porphyry Cu-Mo deposit in Butte, MT, using laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS). The Butte deposit formed at unusually great depth relative to most porphyry deposits, and  fluid  inclusions in deep veins trapped a low-salinity, CO2-bearing, magmatically derived,  supercritical fluid  as a single aqueous phase. This  fluid  is interpreted to be the parent  fluid  that cooled, decompressed, unmixed, and reacted with wall rock to form the gigantic porphyry Cu deposit at Butte. Few previous analyses of such  fluids  exist.
Low-salinity, aqueous  fluids  from the earliest veins at Butte are trapped in deep veins with biotite-rich alteration envelopes (EDM veins). These veins, and the Butte quartz monzonite surrounding them, host much of the Butte porphyry Cu mineralization. Twenty  fluid  inclusions in one EDM quartz vein are dominated by Na, K, Fe (from ~0.1 to ~1 wt.%) and contain up to 1.3 wt.% Cu. These inclusions contain only small amounts (tens of ppm) of Pb, Zn, and Mn, and typically contain Li, B, Ca, As, Mo, Ag, Sn, Sb, Ba, and W in less than detectable quantities. The abundance of Cu in early  fluids  indicates that a low-salinity, Cu-rich, aqueous ore  fluid  can be directly produced by aqueous  fluid  separation from a granitic magma. Similar inclusions (eight) in an early deep quartz-molybdenite vein with a K-feldspar selvage have similar compositions but contain significantly less Cu than most inclusions in the biotite-altered vein. Analyzed inclusions in both veins contain less than detectable concentrations of Mo even though one is molybdenite-bearing.
Low-salinity, CO2-bearing aqueous  fluids  are also trapped in pyrite-quartz veins with sericitic selvages. These veins cut both of the above vein types and contain inclusions that were trapped at lower pressure and temperature. Thirty-nine inclusions in two such veins have compositions similar to early  fluids,  but are enriched by up to a factor of 10 in Mn, Pb, and Zn relative to early  fluids,  and are slightly depleted in Fe. Many of these inclusions contain as much or more Cu than early  fluids,  although little chalcopyrite is found in or around pyrite-quartz veins.
Eighteen halite-bearing inclusions from three veins from both chalcopyrite-bearing and barren veins with both K-silicate and sericitic selvages were analyzed as well. Halite-saturated inclusions are dominated by Na, K, Fe, and in some inclusions Ca. Whereas these inclusions are significantly enriched in Ca, Mn, Fe, Zn, and Pb,  fluids  in all three veins contain significantly less Cu than early, high temperature, low-salinity inclusions.
Analyses of all inclusion types show that whereas bulk-salinity of the hydrothermal  fluid  must be largely controlled by the magma,  fluid -rock interactions have a significant role in controlling  fluid  compositions and metal ratios. Cu concentrations range over an order of magnitude, more than any other element, in all four samples containing low-salinity inclusions. We infer that variations are the result of  fluid  trapping after different amounts of  fluid -rock reaction and chalcopyrite precipitation. Enrichment, relative to early  fluids,  of Mn, Pb, and Zn in  fluids  related to sericitic alteration is also likely the result of  fluid -rock reaction, whereby these elements are released from biotite and feldspars as they alter to sericite. In halite-bearing inclusions, concentrations of Sr, Ca, Pb, and Ba are elevated in inclusions from the pyrite-quartz vein with sericitic alteration relative to halite-bearing inclusions from unaltered and potassically altered samples. Such enrichment is likely caused by the breakdown of plagioclase and K-feldspar in the alteration envelope, releasing Sr, Ca, Pb, and Ba.
★Analytica Chimica Acta, Volume 518, Issues 1-2, 2 August 2004, Pages 151-156
Supercritical fluid immunoextraction: a new approach for immunoassay automation
Abstract:The formation of antigen-antibody immunocomplexes and their extraction into  supercritical  CO2 is proposed as a method for minimizing sample preparation and raising selectivity in the analysis of complex samples. To this end, a flow manifold including a commercially available  supercritical fluid  extractor is used. The extractor allows the continuous elution and turbidimetric monitoring of immunocomplexes formed and extracted in a thimble prior to retention in a solid-phase sorption trap. This assembly for synchronous immunoreaction-extraction-sorption/elution-detection was successfully used in the automatic determination of human immunoglobulin G in serum samples, using antibody human immunoglobulin G as reagent. The proposed method was validated against a standard clinical method implemented by an external laboratory and supported by a certified reference material.
★Food Chemistry, Volume 87, Issue 1, August 2004, Pages 51-58
Extraction of chilli pepper (var. Byedige) with supercritical  CO2: Effect of pressure and temperature on capsaicinoid and colour extraction efficiency
Abstract:The influence of operating parameters (pressure from 100 to 400 bar and temperature of 40, 60 and 80 °C) on the extraction efficiency of capsaicinoids and colour components from chilli pepper (variety Byedige) was studied. Capsaicinoid content and colour value were determined in raw material and residue material after extraction. The colour intensities of residue material and obtained extracts were given by ASTA (American Spice Trade Association) and CU (Colour Unit) value, respectively. Total extraction yield and extraction efficiency of capsaicinoids increased with increasing pressure at constant temperature as well as with increasing temperature at constant pressure. The highest extraction yield for total solids of 12.8% was obtained at 400 bar and 40 °C, where almost 96% of capsaicinoids and 80% of colour components were removed from the raw material. The highest CU value of chilli pepper extract, obtained by a single step extraction at 40 °C and 400 bar, was approximately 15,000 CU. Calculated mass transfer coefficients of chilli pepper extract from solid material varied from 2 × 10?7 to 11 × 10?7 m s?1in the pressure range of 100-400 bar and temperature range 40-80 °C. It was observed that the mass transfer coefficient is a linear function of the density of carbon dioxide in the range of applied operating conditions.
★Journal of Food Engineering, Volume 63, Issue 3, August 2004, Pages 247-252
Extraction of antioxidants from sweet Thai tamarind seed coat--preliminary experiments
Abstract:The aim of this preliminary experimental study was to investigate the extraction yield and activity of antioxidants from the seed coat of sweet Thai tamarind, (Tamarindus indica L.). Extractions with supercritical  CO2,  supercritical  CO2 with a 10% ethanol co-solvent as well as with solvent extraction with ethanol and ethyl acetate were carried out.  Supercritical fluid  extractions were performed over the range 35-80 °C and 10-30 MPa. Shake flask solvent extractions were performed using ethanol and ethyl acetate. It was found that the extraction of (?)-epicatechin with pure CO2 was very low, (≈22  g of (?)-epicatechin per 100 g of seed coat). The use of a 10% ethanol co-solvent resulted in a much higher yield of (?)-epicatechin, (≈13 mg/100 g), under the best conditions which were found to be 40 °C and 10 MPa. Solvent extraction experiments showed that ethanol has a higher selectivity than ethyl acetate for extraction of (?)-epicatechin; yields of (?)-epicatechin using ethanol were about 150 m100 g. The antioxidant mixture extracted from sweet Thai tamarind seed coat using solvent extraction with ethanol was found to be the most active in terms of peroxide value (PV).
★Food Chemistry, Volume 86, Issue 4, August 2004, Pages 587-591
Comparison of essential oil composition of Carum copticum obtained by supercritical  carbon dioxide extraction and hydrodistillation methods
Abstract:Essential oil of Carum copticum cultivated in Iran was obtained by hydrodistillation and  supercritical  (CO2) extraction (SFE) methods. The oils were analysed by capillary gas chromatography, using flame ionization and mass spectrometric detection. The compounds were identified according to their retention indices and mass spectra (EI, 70 eV). The effects of different parameters, such as pressure, temperature, modifier volume and extraction time, on the  supercritical fluid  extraction of C. copticum oil were investigated. The results showed that, under pressure of 30.4 MPa, temperature 35 °C, methanol 0% and dynamic extraction time of 30 min, the method was most selective for the extraction of thymol. Eight compounds were identified in the hydrodistilled oil. The major components of C. copticum were thymol (49.0%),  -terpinene (30.8%), p-cymene (15.7),  -pinene (2.1%), myrcene (0.8%) and limonene (0.7%). However, by using  supercritical  carbon dioxide under optimum conditions, only three components constituted more than 99% of the oil. The extraction yield, based on hydrodistillation was 2.8% (v/w). Extraction yield based on the SFE varied in the range of 1.0-5.8% (w/w) under different conditions. The results show that, in Iranian C. copticum oil, thymol is a major component.
★Journal of Colloid and Interface Science, Volume 275, Issue 2, 15 July 2004, Pages 376-385
Multicomponent adsorption on activated carbons under supercritical  conditions
Abstract:Adsorption of binary mixtures onto activated carbon Norit R1 for the system nitrogen-methane-carbon dioxide was investigated over the pressure range up to 15 MPa. A new model is proposed to describe the experimental data. It is based on the assumption that an activated carbon can be characterized by the distribution function of elements of adsorption volume (EAV) over the solid- fluid  potential. This function may be evaluated from pure component isotherms using the equality of the chemical potentials in the adsorbed phase and in the bulk phase for each EAV. In the case of mixture adsorption a simple combining rule is proposed, which allows determining the adsorbed phase density and its composition in the EAV at given pressure and compositions of the bulk phase. The adsorbed concentration of each adsorbate is the integral of its density over the set of EAV. The comparison with experimental data on binary mixtures has shown that the approach works reasonably well. In the case of high-pressure binary mixture adsorption, when only total amount adsorbed was measured, the proposed
★Food Chemistry, Volume 86, Issue 2, June 2004, Pages 237-243
Supercritical fluid  extractive fractionation - study of the antioxidant activities of propolis
Abstract:Propolis was mixed with ethanol at a ratio of 1:10 (v/w) for 24 h to yield propolis ethanol extract (E). Extract E was further fractionated with  supercritical  carbon dioxide (SC-CO2) into four fractions (R, F1, F2 and F3). To evaluate the selectivity of the fractionation, extracts corresponding to four fractions were characterized in terms of total flavonoid contents, antioxidant abilities and antioxidant mechanisms. Experimental results indicated that fractionation altered the composition distributions of fractions, e.g., by reducing total flavonoid contents. The antioxidant ability, metal chelating capacity, reducing power, and scavenging capacity of DPPH, O2·?or ·OH radicals of propolis extract and fractions increased with propolis concentrations. The effects of scavenging on DPPH of propolis extract and fractions, at 2 mg/ml were R (93%), E (75%), F1 (56%), F2 (47%), and F3 (27%). At a concentration of 1 mg/ml, propolis fractions scavenged O2·? by over 73% and all the fractions trapped around 65% of the ·OH groups. This in vitro study of antioxidant effects showed that R and F1 were the best fractions, followed by F2.
★Comptes Rendus Chimie, Volume 7, Issues 6-7, June-July 2004, Pages 629-633
Identification and characterization of supercritical fluid  extracts from herbs
Abstract: Supercritical  carbon dioxide extraction is used to obtain extracts from the herbs: sage (Salvia officinalis), basil (Ocimum basilicum), oregano (Origanum vulgare), and lovage (Levisticum officinale). The influence of pressure and modifiers on the oil yield and content was studied. The extraction pressure ranged from 17.2 to 25.5 MPa at 45 °C. Ethanol was used as a modifier. Components in the extracts were analysed by gas-liquid chromatography and identified using an existing retention index database. Both extraction pressure and  fluid  modifier alter the extraction yield and its composition. The antimicrobial activity test by the Agar Well Diffusion method of the sage extract showed substantial difference between the essential oil and extract from  supercritical fluid  extraction. To cite this article: A. Menaker et al., C. R. Chimie 7 (2004).
★The Journal of Supercritical Fluids, In Press, Corrected Proof, Available online 14 May 2004,
Solubilities of disperse dyes of blue 79:1, red 82 and modified yellow 119 in supercritical  carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide
Abstract:Dissolution of disperse blue 79:1, red 82, and modified yellow 119 with  supercritical  carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide was studied at 393.2 K and 30 MPa over a wide range of contact times. Equilibrium solubilities of the dyestuffs in the  supercritical fluids  were also measured at temperatures from 353.2 to 393.2 K and pressures up to 30 MPa. The solubilities were enhanced generally about 100-fold as pressure increasing from 15 to 30 MPa. Under the same equilibrium condition, the solubilities of the dyes in carbon dioxide followed the order of red 82>blue 79:1>modified yellow 119, and modified yellow 119 is more soluble in nitrous oxide than in carbon dioxide. The solubility data were correlated with the Chrastil, the Sung-Shim, and the Mendez-Santiago-Teja models. The Chrastil model correlated the solubility data to about within the experimental uncertainty. The correlated results of the Mendez-Santiago-Teja model endorsed the consistency of the solubility data over the entire experimental conditions.
★Journal of Food Engineering, In Press, Corrected Proof, Available online 10 May 2004,
Supercritical fluid  extraction of carotenoids and chlorophyll a from Nannochloropsis gaditana
Abstract:Traditional methods for the extraction of carotenoids and chlorophylls from microalgae frequently require more than one extraction step with organic solvents, which are forbidden in the processing of food additives. In addition, further process steps are necessary for the separation of carotenoids from chlorophylls. Consequently, faster processing methods that are compatible with food production are extremely important.
The aim of this study was to ascertain the influence of pressure and temperature on the  supercritical fluid  extraction of carotene and chlorophyll from a freeze-dried powder of the marine microalgae Nannochloropsis gaditana. The operating conditions were as follows: pressures of 100, 200, 300, 400 and 500 bar and temperatures of 40, 50 and 60 °C. The extracts were analysed by measuring the absorbance at 665 and 480 nm. Empirical correlations were also developed.
The results demonstrate that it is necessary to work at a pressure of 400 bar and a temperature of 60 °C to obtain a significant yield in the extraction of the pigments. The best Carot/Chlor ratio was obtained at 200 bar and 60 °C. It was also found that excellent selectivity can be obtained under these operating conditions and this could enable the separation and purification of these kinds of extracted pigments.
★The Journal of Supercritical Fluids, Volume 28, Issues 2-3, March 2004, Pages 201-206
Solubility of coenzyme Q10 in supercritical  carbon dioxide
Abstract:The equilibrium solubility of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) in  supercritical  carbon dioxide (scCO2) was measured by a static analytical method in the pressure range from 9 to 26 MPa, at temperatures of 305, 313 and 323 K. The cosolvent effect of ethanol in the solubility of the bioactive compound in scCO2 has been investigated, at 15 MPa and 313 K. A preliminary study of the viability of extracting CoQ10 with scCO2 has been investigated at 15 MPa and 313 K, using the content of commercial pharmaceutical capsules as the solid matrix feed. The solubility data results were correlated by use of the empirical density-based Chrastil model.

Patent Abstracts of Japan
METHOD OF FORMING FINE WIRING PATTERN USING DISPERSED NANO-SIZED PARTICLES IN SUPERCRITICAL FLUID
Abstract of JP2004119790
PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a method of forming an ultrafine sintered wiring pattern by baking nano-sized metal particles contained in a drawn ultrafine pattern at a relatively low temperature after drawing the pattern, by using a dispersion prepared by dispersing the nano-sized metal particles in a dispersion medium that can be removed easily by evaporating.
SOLUTION: In a step of drawing the ultrafine wiring pattern, an applied layer is formed on a substrate by jetting dispersed nano-sized metal particles in the dispersion medium composed of a supercritical fluid under a pressurized and heated condition from a nozzle. Consequently, the dispersion medium composed of the supercritical fluid can be removed by evaporating, because the medium quickly changes to a gaseou state under the atmospheric pressure.
APPARATUS FOR WASHING FILTER BY USING SUPERCRITICAL OR SUBCRITICAL FLUID
Abstract of JP2004113979
PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an apparatus for washing filter by using a supercritical or subcritical fluid, by which a filter is washed efficiently without being damaged so that the released stain is not stuck to the filter again.
SOLUTION: This apparatus is characterized by being provided with a washing tank 50 for washing an air filter 25 by making the supercritical or subcritical fluid pass through there and a main body 41 of the tank 50 and a cap 47 between which the filter 25 is held in the tank 50 so that the supercritical or subcritical fluid is made to pass through the filter medium of the filter 25 and which are arranged for forming flow passages of prescribed lengths on the upstream and downstream sides of the filter 25.
SUPERCRITICAL FLUID COMPOSITION AND ITS USE
Abstract of JP2004059837
PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a method for cleaning a semiconductor substrate by removing hardly removable noble metals without damaging the substrate and apparatuses.
SOLUTION: The method for the cleaning of a semiconductor substrate comprises the washing with a supercritical fluid composition containing carbon dioxide and a hydrocarbon expressed by general formula (1) (R1 to R5 are each independently H, a 1-5C alkyl, an alkenyl or an alkynyl).
ULTRASONICALLY ENHANCED PROCESS FOR EXTRACTION OF METAL SPECIES IN SUPERCRITICAL FLUID
Abstract of JP2004036000
PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To efficiently dissolve or extract metals, such as uranium, platinum and palladium, metalloids or their oxides while reducing environmental load.
SOLUTION: The metals, metalloids or their oxides are dissolved or extracted by using a supercritical fluid, such as carbon dioxide, containing a chelating reagent such as alkyl phosphate and a Lewis acid such as mineral acid and applying ultrasonic vibrations at about 300 to 350 K under about 10 to 25 MPa pressure.
PREPARATION OF FOAMED BODY USING SUPERCRITICAL FLUID
Abstract of JP2004035835
PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a method of preparing a formed body under a mild condition using a supercritical fluid for recovering and recycling plastics contained in waste.
SOLUTION: Preparation of the formed body of crosslinked polyolefin such as crosslinked polyethylene through the process of contacting solid plastics with supercritical carbon dioxide in the presence of an oxidizing agent and the process of reducing the pressure.
CLEANING APPARATUS USING SUPERCRITICAL OR SUBCRITICAL FLUID
Abstract of JP2004025029
PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a cleaning apparatus using a supercritical or subcritical fluid for cleaning a minute glass fiber efficiently by using the supercritical fluid without damage so that released stains are not stuck again.
SOLUTION: This cleaning apparatus is provided with a cleaning tank 16 for cleaning the object to be cleaned by using the supercritical or subcritical fluid and a controller 26 for controlling so that the fluid to be made to flow into the tank 16 is made to keep the supercritical or subcritical state by raising the temperature and pressure gradually, the fluid keeping the supercritical or subcritical state is circulated in the tank 16 and the fluid is discharged from the tank 16 while reducing the pressure of the fluid circulated in the tank 16 and/or lowering the temperature gradually.
TREATMENT OF CONTACT LENS WITH SUPERCRITICAL FLUID
Abstract of JP2004004814
PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a method for treating a lens capable of improving the optical transparency of the lens without adversely affecting the wetting property or other physical properties of the lens and to provide a lens treatment capable of improving the hydrophilicity of a lens, thereby eliminating or at least reducing the necessity of an additive or an aftertreatment.
SOLUTION: A method for producing an optically transparent contact lens is provided which includes a step for molding the lens from a monomer mixture and includes a step for treating the molded contact lens with a supercritical fluid as an improvement.
SUPERCRITICAL FLUID INJECTING APPARATUS
Abstract of JP2003251672
PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To obtain a supercritical fluid injecting apparatus by which safety of the supercritical fluid injecting apparatus such as an injector can be improved, the injector can be prevented from being broken and molding can be prevented from becoming inferior caused by injection pressure of the supercritical fluid.
SOLUTION: A supercritical fluid pressure control valve 7 is fitted with a pressure detector 8A with an external signal outputting function and the outputting signal is taken in a controller 10A to always monitor the injection pressure of the supercritical fluid, and when an abnormal pressure is generated, an alarm signal is outputted to an alarm unit 20 and a stop command is outputted to a screw driving device 3 to stop driving.
TECHNOLOGY FOR HYDROLYSIS OF IMPACT-LOADED BAMBOO, TIMBER AND OTHER PLANT BIOMASS USING SUBCRITICAL FLUID OR SUPERCRITICAL FLUID
Abstract of JP2003238969
PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an efficient method, permitting a treatment in a shorter time and at a lower cost, for a hydrolysis treatment of bamboo, wood, and other plant biomass using a subcritical fluid or a supercritical fluid.
SOLUTION: Bamboo, wood and other plant biomass are subjected to a hydrolysis treatment using a subcritical fluid or a supercritical fluid in a solid shape as it is without finely dividing by chipping, crushing or other methods by employing a pretreatment technology where an impact wave is sent to the biomass to selectively destroy a blocked cellular pore with a rim or a cell membrane in the material thereby permitting ready penetration of the subcritical fluid or the supercritical fluid such as an alcohol, water, carbon dioxide gas and the like.
MOLDING METHOD USING SUPERCRITICAL FLUID
Abstract of JP2003205537
PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a molding method using a supercritical fluid capable of accurately transferring an ultrafine structure incapable of being satisfactorily transferred by a conventional molding method and capable of duplicating a replica in large quantities.
SOLUTION: The supercritical fluid is held in a resin material until the material is cured or solidified to make it possible to improve the coating properties or penetration properties to the ultrafine structure. Therefore, high transfer properties incapable of being obtained by the conventional molding method can be obtained and the replica of the ultrafine structure can be duplicated in large quantities.
PLASMA STATE IN SUPERCRITICAL FLUID ATMOSPHERE
Abstract of JP2003178900
PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To realize a plasma state in high-pressure/high particle density atmosphere more efficiently.
SOLUTION: An electrode for generating electric discharge is installed in the inside or the exterior of a supercritical fluid cell. The plasma state is created in the supercritical fluid atmosphere, which is the high-pressure/high particle density atmosphere, by using direct-current/alternate-current voltage or the cell using an window, by using laser beam, and the like.
APPARATUS FOR CASTING SUPERCRITICAL FLUID AND INJECTION MOLDING MACHINE USING THE SAME
Abstract of JP2003154547
PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an apparatus for casting a supercritical fluid capable of uniformly dissolving the fluid in a molten resin by a screw to suppress the unevenness in the quality of a molding, and to provide an injection molding machine using the same.
SOLUTION: The apparatus for casting the supercritical fluid in the injection molding machine plasticizes a material by the screw 21 provided in a cylinder 22, injects the material from the nozzle (11) of the cylinder 22, melts the material at the front stage part 31 of the cylinder 22, charges the fluid between the front stage part 31 and the rear stage part 32, and kneads, disperses and mixes the material with the fluid. The apparatus comprises a timer 16 for measuring a time from the start of the plasticization, a waiting time setter 17 for setting the waiting time from the start of the plasticization, and a charging controller 23 for starting the charging of the fluid after the time set by the setter 17 is elapsed by the timer 16.
METHOD AND EQUIPMENT FOR INJECTING SUPERCRITICAL FLUID AND INJECTION HOLDING MACHINE HAVING THE EQUIPMENT
Abstract of JP2003154526
PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To make constant the quantity (solubility) of a supercritical fluid to be injected into and dissolved in a molten material, irrespective of a set value of a rotational speed of a screw.
SOLUTION: The equipment has a flow rate resetting part 21 which determines setting of a flow rate of the supercritical fluid by multiplying a set value of the rotational speed of the screw obtained by a screw rotational speed extracting part 23 extracting the set value from a setting part 24 of molding conditions of an injection molding machine, by a coefficient set by a coefficient setting part 22 setting the coefficient corresponding to the kind of the material, that of the supercritical fluid, etc., and resets the same in a flow rate setting part 22. According to this constitution, the solubility of the supercritical fluid in the plasticized molten material can always made constant irrespective of the setting of the rotational speed of the screw, in contrast to usual equipment.
OIL ELIMINATOR USING SUPERCRITICAL FLUID
Abstract of JP2003112035

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To efficiently separate an oil-component from fine solids, to reduce clogging of a filter and to easily recover the oil-component removed solids.
SOLUTION: The oil-component eliminator using supercritical fluid has a first vessel 21 which holds the supercritical fluid and its pressure, a second vessel 22 which is arranged within this first vessel 21 and houses the treating object a stuck with the oil, the filter 23 which is disposed to cover the aperture of the upper part of the second vessel 22 and filters the treating object (a), a supercritical fluid feeding source which feeds the supercritical fluid into the second vessel 22, means which agitates the treating object a stuck with the oil in the first vessel 21 and a vaporization separator 36 which vaporizes the supercritical fluid recovered through the filter 23 from the second vessel 22 then through the first vessel 21 and separates the fluid to gas and the oil- component.

 

METHOD FOR EXTRACTING SUPERCRITICAL FLUID
Abstract of JP2003090833
PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a method for extracting supercritical fluid allowing improving extraction rate of an object component by effectively restraining extraction of interfering components.
SOLUTION: Spinach is used as a test sample and isofenphos is added to it as the object component. Using graphite 4 as a carrier, the spinach as the test sample is added and mixed with the graphite 4 by an appropriate quantity for making the graphite 4 intensely absorb fat and oil as the interferential components and thereby the extraction of the interfering components is prevented. After absorbing, isofenphos as the object component is extracted by this method for extracting supercritical fluid. In this case, a body formed in a cylindrical disk made by mixing the graphite 4 with pulp can be placed on the exist side of an extraction pipe 10.
SUPERCRITICAL FLUID EXTRACTION METHOD FOR LIQUID SAMPLE
Abstract of JP2003088705
PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a supercritical fluid extraction method for a liquid sample enabling the uniform mixing with oil without increasing the mixing amount of a carrier and capable of enhancing the extraction ratio.
SOLUTION: Respective agricultural chemicals of captan, dimethoate and fenitrothion are added to a tomato in a concentration of 1 ppm. This tomato is ground to obtain a liquid sample 1 while pulp 2 being vegetable fibers is used as the carrier to mix the pulp 2 and the liquid tomato 1 in a weight ratio of 1:1 to fix the liquid tomato 1 and the pulp 2 is mounted in an extraction tube 10. In this case, the extraction tube 10 is densely filled with the pulp 2 in the vicinity of the inlet and outlet of the extraction tube 10. After filling, the respective agricultural chemicals in the liquid tomato 1 are extracted according to the predetermined supercritical fluid extraction method.
METHOD FOR MICROWAVE ACIDOLYSIS, AND METHOD FOR HIGHLY CONCENTRATING METAL WITH USE OF SUPERCRITICAL FLUID EXTRACTION
Abstract of JP2003073751
PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a technology which enables an enriching recovery for concentrating metals after separating it from a metal-containing substance, and for utilizing the metals existing in trace amount, or enables preparation of a solution containing concentrated metals for high-accuracy analysis of the trace amount of metals.
SOLUTION: The method for concentrating the metals comprises treating a metal-containing solid by microwave acidolysis, to make a solution including the metals which are contained in the solid, adding an extracting agent in the solution to form metal complexes, and then extracting metals from the solution by supercritical fluid extraction.
METHOD FOR CALCULATING HEAT TRANSFER BY PISTON EFFECT AT SUPERCRITICAL FLUID
Abstract of JP2003028819
PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a method for calculating a heat transfer by a piston effect at a supercritical fluid in which the heat transfer can be highly accurately and easily calculated with the use of an information processing device such as a computer while a change of physical properties values by a temperature and a pressure is taken into account.
SOLUTION: The method for calculating the heat transfer of the supercritical fluid consists of a first step of inputting an analysis region, an initial condition and a criticality, a second step of obtaining physical properties values on the basis of an initial temperature and an initial pressure, a third step of calculating a temperature T with the use of physical properties values obtained in the second step, a fourth step of calculating a pressure p with the use of physical properties values obtained in the second or a sixth step, a fifth step of calculating a heating value Q with the use of physical properties values obtained in the second or the sixth step, and a seventh step of calculating the temperature T with the piston effect taken into account with the use of the heating value Q and physical properties values obtained in the sixth step.
REACTION VESSEL FOR SUPERCRITICAL FLUID

Abstract of JP2003010673

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a reaction vessel for a supercritical fluid where the reaction of a sample in the supercritical fluid can be precisely observed at a low cost.
SOLUTION: This reaction vessel 10 for the supercritical fluid is provided with reactor bodies 12, 14 tightly enclosing a fluid and a sample, and in the bodies 12, 14, a reaction field 15 where the sample 58 is made to react in the above fluid and a not-reaction field 19 where the sample 58 is made not to react in the fluid substantially in succession are formed. The reaction vessel 10 is characterized in that the reaction vessel 10 is provided with a supercritical- condition generating means 22 forming a supercritical fluid phase 15 by putting the reaction field 15 under a supercritical condition of the field, cooling means 34, 42 forming a low temperature fluid phase 19 by putting the not-reaction field 19 under a low-temperature condition of a temperature lower than the subcritical temperature of the fluid, and sample moving means 44, 50 moving the sample 58 between the supercritical fluid phase 15 and the low temperature- fluid phase 19.

 

KNEADING/DEVOLATILIZING EXTRUSION MOLDING APPARATUS UTILIZING SUPERCRITICAL FLUID

 

Abstract of JP2002355880

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To gasify a supercritical fluid from a molten molding compound impregnated with the supercritical fluid while suppressing the deterioration of a polymer and the re-flocculation of a filler to certainly devolatilize the same.
SOLUTION: The kneading/devolatilizing extrusion molding apparatus is equipped with a devolatilizing twin-screw extrusion molding machine E for gasifying the supercritical fluid in the molten molding compound impregnated with the supercritical fluid discharge from a discharge pipeline 25 to separate and remove the same and subsequently extruding the molding compound. The devolatilizing twin-screw extrusion molding machine E is constituted so that a supply port 3 provided with a pressure control means 11 is provided to a cylinder 1 on the upstream side thereof, and a downstream open vent port 6a, a first forcible exhaust vent port 7a and a second forcible exhaust vent port 7b are successively provided between the supply port 3 and a die 4 from an upstream side and an upstream open vent port 6b is provided to the upstream region of the supply port 3. A first weir part 5a is provided to the screw 2 in the vicinity of the upstream region of the first forcible exhaust vent port 7a and a second weir part 5b is provided in the vicinity of the upstream region of the second forcible exhaust vent port 7b.

 

Patent Abstracts of Worldwide
METHOD OF IMMOBILISING HYDROCARBONS INSIDE SUBMERGED CONTAINERS OR OF TRANSPORTING SAID HYDROCARBON TO THE SURFACE, USING THE PROPERTIES OF SUPERCRITICAL FLUIDS AT A GREAT DEPTH

Abstract of WO2004065526

The invention relates to a method of immobilising a hydrocarbon contained inside a container submerged in the sea floor or of transporting said hydrocarbon to the surface using the pressure gradient between the pressure in the sea floor and the pressure generated at the lower opening of a hydrostatic column in which the fluid used as the supercritical fluid is gasified when same moves to non-extreme pressure conditions.

 

 

METHOD FOR PRODUCING POLYMER ALLOY, POLYMER ALLOY, FORMED ARTICLE, TRANSPARENT FORMED ARTICLE AND OPTICAL FILM

Abstract of EP1445274

This invention provides a method for producing a polymer alloy, a polymer alloy as well as a molded article, a transparent molded article and an optical film, which is obtainable by using the polymer alloy. The invention is a method for producing a polymer alloy, which comprises at least: a step 1 of mixing two or more resins incompatible with each other at ambient temperature and pressure with a solvent being in a liquid or gas state at ambient temperature and pressure; a step 2 of heating and applying pressure to said solvent into a high-temperature and high-pressure fluid or a supercritical fluid and mixing the solvent in this state; and, a step 3 of cooling the mixture obtained in said step 2 rapidly to the glass transition temperature or less without releasing the pressure of the mixture.

 

 

ADDING ENERGY TO A CLEANING PROCESS FLUID FOR REMOVING PHOTO RESIST, RESIDUES AND PARTICLES FROM SEMICONDUCTOR SUBSTRATES, PHOTO MASKS, RETICULES, DISKS AND FLAT-PANEL DISPLAYS

Abstract of WO2004064121

A supercritical fluid cleaning system and method comprising mainly a pressure chamber, a closable lid, a substrate support for holding at least one substrate, a rotable shaft extending outward from within the chamber, an external rotary power source coupled magnetically or otherwise to the shaft, and a rotable component or impeller attached to the chamber end of the shaft in close proximity to the substrate holding position, and baffles located close to the rotable component. The rotable component is configured for rotation within the supercritical phase fluid in the chamber close to the surface of the wafer for causing agitation and turbulent fluid flow against the surface of the substrate, and increased intra-chamber fluid circulation.

 

 

CATALYSED REACTION SYSTEM USING SUPERCRITICAL FLUID

Abstract of WO2004062786

A reaction system is provided wherein a catalyst for the reaction is dissolved or suspended in a reaction product or in a reactant/product mixture, but is preferably substantially insoluble in a supercritical fluid present to facilitate removal of the reaction product or transport of both a substrate and a reaction product. The supercritical fluid is preferably carbon dioxide, and the reaction may be hydroformylation.

 

 

Method for producing nano-carbon materials

Abstract of EP1440932

A method for producing nano-carbon materials, having a step wherein a starting material comprising one or more kinds of compounds selected from the group consisting saturated hydrocarbons, unsaturated hydrocarbons, saturated cyclic hydrocarbons, and alcohols whose atomic ratio of the component carbon to the component oxygen is more than 2.0 and a catalyst are together treated at a temperature in a range of from 100 to 800 DEG C while being compressed at a pressure in a range of from 0.2 to 60 MPa, where said starting material is converted into a supercritical fluid or a subcritical fluid while said supercritical fluid or said subcritical fluid being contacted with said catalyst, or a step wherein said starting material, said catalyst and a supplementary material capable of functioning as a reaction promotion medium are together treated at a temperature in a range of from 100 to 800 DEG C while being compressed at a pressure in a range of from 0.2 to 60 MPa, where at least said supplementary material is converted into a supercritical fluid or a subcritical fluid and said starting material is contacted with said supercritical fluid or said subcritical fluid formed from said supplementary material while being contacted with said catalyst.

 

 

HEAT EXCHANGER FOR PROVIDING SUPERCRITICAL COOLING OF A WORKING FLUID IN A TRANSCRITICAL COOLING CYCLE

Abstract of CA2467137

Heat exchanger (10) for providing supercritical cooling to the refrigerant o f a transcritical cooling system (12) including a pair of elongated headers (2 0, 22) plurality of elongated tubes (28) spaced in side-by-side relation along the longitudinal axes (24, 26) of the headers (20, 22), and serpentine fins (30) extending between adjacent pairs of the tubes. Each of the tubes (28) i s folded upon itself to define at least two parallel legs (36) of the tubes (2 8) and has a flattened cross-section. The parallel legs (36) of the tubes (28) are preferably spaced from each other, with the major dimension D of each of the parallel legs lying in a common plane. Each of the fins (30) includes alternating tabs (40) and elongated separations (42) extending parallel to t he parallel legs (36) and located between the parallel legs (36) of the adjacen t tubes (28) to divide the width (W) of each fin (30) into discrete fin elemen ts (44) that are connected to each other by the tabs (40). Each of the fin elements (44) extends along one of the parallel legs (36) of the adjacent tubes (28).

 

 

FLUORIDE IN SUPERCRITICAL FLUID FOR PHOTORESIST AND RESIDUE REMOVAL

Abstract of WO2004059383

A method and system for removing a residue from a substrate material is disclosed. The method and system utilize a supercritical cleaning solution with an fluoride source to control the concentration of fluoride ions and/or hydrogen fluoride within the supercritical cleaning solution. Preferably, the method and the system utilize a supercritical cleaning solution with supercritical CO2 and an ammonium fluoride salt and/or an organo-ammonium fluoride and/or amine adduct. The supercritical cleaning solution, in accordance with further embodiments, includes one or more acids and one or more carrier solvents. The supercritical cleaning solution of the present invention is capable of removing a residue, such a post-etch photo polymer residue from a semiconductor substrate material by dissolution of the reside, etching a portion of the residue, etching a portion of the substrate material or any combination thereof.

 

 

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR THE ISOLATION OF PRODUCED PARTICLES AS A SUSPENSION INA NON-SUPERCRITICAL FLUID

Abstract of WO2004056443

An apparatus and process for the transport and isolation of particulate products to and from high pressure, for example supercritical, environments is described.

 

 

PROCESS FOR PREPARING COMBINATION PHARMACEUTICAL FORMULATIONS USING SUPERCRITICAL FLUIDS

Abstract of WO2004056342

The invention is directed to a process for preparing a pharmaceutical formulation containing two or more active pharmaceutical ingredients comprising: (a) contacting two or more active pharmaceutical ingredients with a supercritical fluid to form a supercritical fluid solution; and (b) separating the active ingredients from the supercritical solution to yield a powder precipitate. Preferably, the pharmaceutical formulation prepared according to the invention contains a combination of two anti-infective agents or two anticancer agents. The invention is further directed to a process for preparing a pharmaceutical formulation containing two or more active pharmaceutical ingredients comprising: (a) combining two or more active ingredients with a cosolvent to form a solution; (b) contacting the solution with a supercritical fluid; and (c) recovering the precipitate in a powder form.

 

 

SUPERCRITICAL FLUIDS PROCESSING: PREPARATION OF PROTEIN MICROPARTICLES AND THEIR STABILISATION

 

Abstract of CA2464308

A process for the co-precipitation of a substance with a stabiliser therefor , by a gas anti solvent process comprising introducing into a particle formati on vessel a supercritical fluid pure or mixed with a modifier; and a solution comprising said substance and said stabiliser dissolved in a solvent; so as said solvent is extracted from the solution by said supercritical fluid and co- precipitation of the substance and stabiliser occurs. The process may be carried out using an apparatus comprising a particle formation vessel (22) a nd a nozzle (27) having a central orifice (39) serving to introduce a solution of the substance and a plurality of outer orifices (41) serving to carry a flow of supercritical fluid into the particle formation vessel (22), such that th e solvent is extracted from the solution by the supercritical fluid and precipitation of micron sized particles of the substance/stabilizer occurs. The substance is preferably a protein of pharmaceutical interest, which is highly stabilized for storage by this process.

 

 

METHOD FOR PRODUCING FINE-CRYSTALLINE CORUNDUM

Abstract of WO2004054930

The invention relates to abrasives production and can be used for producing pure and alloyed fine-crystalline corundum whose crystal sizes range from 0.3 to 400 mkm and which are well faceted and have a regular habit. Synthesis of the fine-crystalline corundum is carried out by progressive heat treatment of aluminium hydroxide (hydrargillite) or aluminium oxyhydroxide (boehmite) in air and/or in a hydrothermal medium and, afterwards in a supercritical aqueous fluid. In order to produced alloyed corundum, an alloy-containing substance can be added in a reaction medium during a synthetic process. The inventive method makes it possible to produce corundum having a narrow crystal size distribution.

 

 

Apparatus and method for micron and submicron particle formation

Abstract of NZ528082

An apparatus is described for micron and submicron particles formation of a substance using the GAS process, comprising a particles formation vessel and means for introducing a solution of the substance and a supercritical fluid into the particles formation vessel, wherein said means comprise a nozzle having a central orifice (39) serving to carry a flow of solution, and a plurality of separate outer orifices (41) serving to carry a flow of pure supercritical fluid or a flow of supercritical fluid mixed with a modifier, such that the solvent is extracted from the solution by the supercritical fluid and precipitation of micron and submicron particles occurs. Also a process is described, carried out with such an apparatus.

 

 

Methods for extraction and reaction using supercritical fluids

Abstract of NZ521725

Methods are disclosed for removing soluble material from confined spaces within substrates such as containers, capsules and porous powders comprising extraction with supercritical fluids, the pressure of which is preferably modulated between an upper level and a lower level within a relatively narrow range of fluid pressure and density. The method permits enhanced extraction efficiency, catalytic reaction rates and ability to maintain catalyst activity.

 

 

METHOD FOR PREPARING A COMPOUND FOR INTERACTION OF ACTIVE SUBSTANCES WITH A POROUS SUPPORT USING SUPERCRITICAL FLUID

Abstract not available for EP1434567
Abstract of correspondent: FR2830760

Process for the preparation of compounds formed by interaction of an active substance that is sparingly soluble in water with a porous support. Process for the preparation of compounds formed by interaction of an active substance that is sparingly soluble in water with a porous support, the process comprising: (1) mixing the active substance that has been generated using a supercritical fluid with the desired amount of porous support; (2) contacting the mixture in a static mode with a supercritical fluid and allowing molecular diffusion to take place for the time that is necessary to improve dissolution in an aqueous medium; (3) washing the compound formed with a flow of supercritical fluid, and; (4) recovering the interaction product thus formed.

 

 

RECYCLE FOR SUPERCRITICAL CARBON DIOXIDE

 

Abstract of CA2463941

A method and a system for supplying a carbon dioxide fluid feed from a carbo n dioxide purifying means to one or more applications. The feed is combined wi th contaminants at the applications to form an effluent, and at least one effluent is returned to the purifying means for recycling the carbon dioxide . Carbon dioxide from a carbon dioxide source is combined with the carbon dioxide of the system so that the purity of the carbon dioxide from the sour ce is upgraded prior to the applications.

 

 

AN COMPOSITION CONTAINING TRITERPENOID SAPONINS EXTRACTED FROM BAMBOO, AND THE PREPARATION METHOD AND USE THEREOF

Abstract of WO2004052383

The present invention relates to an composition containing triterpenoid saponins extracted from Bamboo, and the preparation method and use thereof. The triterpenoid saponins are extracted from various parts of bamboo belonging to Gramineae, such as Bamboo Shavings and the like, using supercritical C02 fluid extraction technology. The content of triterpenoid saponins in the composition is 10-90%. The contents of friedelin and lupenone are 5-35% and 1-10% respectively. The extract has good anti-free radical, anti-oxidation, antitumor, hypotensive activities and the like. The extract of the present invention can be useful as therapeutic drugs or functional foods for the treatment or prevention of cardiovascular and cerebral vascular deaseases, as well as for the treatment of tumor, and useful in cosmetic field.

 

 

PROCESS FOR PRODUCING MODIFIED POLYMER, APPARATUS FOR PRODUCING MODIFIED POLYMER, AND MODIFIED POLYMER

Abstract of CA2462949

A process for modified-polymer production by which a high-purity modified polymer can be obtained in a short time. The process comprises chemically modifying a polymer in a supercritical fluid or high-temperature high-pressu re fluid to give a modified polymer in which part or all of the monomer units constituting the unmodified polymer have been chemically modified.

 

 

ABSORBENT ARTICLES COMPRISING SUPERCRITICAL FLUID POLYMERIZED POLYMER

Abstract of WO2004050752

The present invention comprises compositions and methods of making high internal phase emulsion foam (HIPE) and inverse high internal phase emulsion foam (I-HIPE) using super critical fluids. Such foams may be used in a wide variety of articles such as absorbent articles.

 

 

PROCESS FOR CONVERSION AND SIZE REDUCTION OF SOLID PARTICLES

Abstract of WO2004050251

A combined process for the conversion of solid starting particles into solid intermediate particles and reducing the median diameter of the intermediate particles to obtain product particles. This process involves flowing a suspension of starting particles through a series of at least two conversion vessels, thereby converting at least part of the starting particles into intermediate particles, adding a supercritical fluid to one or more of the conversion vessels, thereby forming a supercritical suspension, and releasing pressure from the supercritical suspension, thereby expanding the suspension and converting the intermediate particles into product particles.

 

 

HIGH-PRESSURE DEVICE FOR CLOSING A CONTAINER IN A CLEAN ROOM

Abstract of WO2004048783

The invention relates to a very compact device and to a method for closing a container by means of a rotational symmetric lifting system, which contains a working piston and a guide cylinder and is operated essentially using the same fluid that is placed inside the container while serving as a process medium. The front face of the working piston forms, at least in part, the closure part of the container or is joined to the closure part in a fixed manner. Ideally, a supercritical fluid is used both as a working medium for driving the piston and as the process medium.

 

 

FREE RADICAL CURED COATING POWDERS FOR SMOOTH, LOW GLOSS FINISH POWDER COATINGS

Abstract of CA2444305

The present invention provides ultraviolet (UV) curable powders for powder coatings comprising one or more than one free radical curable epoxy resin and one or more than one second free radical curable resin, or, alternatively, one or more than one free radical curable unsaturated polyest er resin in combination with one or more than wax, and one or more than one fre e radical photoinitiator, wherein the coating powder ha.s an average particle size of to 25 microns. Further, the present invention provides a method for making a powder for thin (1.0 to 4.0 mil), smooth coatings having an average particle size of from 5 to 25 microns, the method preferably comprising jet milling dry powder or spray drying an aqueous emulsion, fluid mixture, or a supercritical suspension of a powder or of the composition for making the powder. Still further, the present invention provides a method of making a powder coating comprising applying the powder to a substrate, preferably hardwood, heat fusing the applied powder, and UV curing at a temperature and for an amount of time sufficient to form a powder coating having a low gloss finish.

 

 

SUPERCRITICAL FLUID DELIVERY AND RECOVERY SYSTEM FOR SEMICONDUCTOR WAFER PROCESSING

Abstract not available for EP1425115
Abstract of correspondent: WO0178911

A continuous flow, steady state fluid delivery and recovery system for a process chamber and processes requiring supercritical fluid and desired additives including co-solvents, for conducting repetitive batch processing operations in an automated environment, for such processes as supercritical carbon dioxide cleaning and processing of semiconductor wafers. The system provides for steady-state operation of fluid flow and byproducts recovery while the process chamber is brought rapidly and repeatedly on and off line as in batch operations and for various process steps.

 

 

METHOD FOR THE PREPARATION OF PACLITAXEL SOLID DISPERSION BY USING THE SUPERCRITICAL FLUID PROCESS AND PACLITAXEL SOLID DISPERSION PREPARED THEREBY

Abstract of WO2004043437

The present invention relates to a method for the preparation of paclitaxel solid dispersion by using the supercritical fluid process and paclitaxel solid dispersion prepared thereby, the paclitaxel solid dispersion being highly homogeneous and showing an improved solubility, thereby being effectively used for the preparation of paclitaxel injection and oral preparation having a high bioavailability.

 

 

METHOD FOR STAINING MATERIALS IN COMPRESSED CARBON DIOXIDE

Abstract of WO2004040057

The invention relates to a method and device for staining partially finished or finished textile products consisting of at least one elastic substrate and/or at least one semirigid substrate and/or at least one rigid substrate. The inventive method consists in covering mixed fabrics consisted of hydrophilic and hydrophobic materials and combinations of materials and/or fabrics with aqueous dispersion of self-crosslinking polymers, drying said dispersion, hardening self-crosslinking polymers and in staining thus provided with polymer textile products in a dispersible dye in the form of a supercritical fluid bath.

 

 

Dissolving device and method for dissolving a particulate solid in a supercritical or almost critical fluid, and dyeing device

Abstract of TW555917

According to the invention, a dissolving device for dissolving a particulate solid in a supercritical or almost critical fluid comprises a circulation loop, in which there is a feed (14) for feeding a feed stream of the supercritical or almost critical fluid, a cyclone (7), which is in communication with the feed (14) and has a principal discharge (9) for discharging a principal discharge stream of a solution of the particulate solid in the supercritical or almost critical fluid and has an auxiliary discharge (11) for discharging an auxiliary stream of the supercritical or almost critical fluid with solid particles dispersed therein, the auxiliary discharge (11) being in communication with the said feed (14). A dissolving device of this type has a low pressure drop and a high dissolving rate compared to the prior art. The invention also relates to a dyeing device which is provided with a dissolving device according to the invention, and to a method which uses the latter.

 

 

METHOD OF ENCAPSULATING AN ACTIVE SUBSTANCE

Abstract of CA2455208

The invention provides a method of encapsulating an active substance in an interpolymer complex, to make an encapsulated product in particulate form. T he method comprises forming a mixture of a supercritical fluid, an interpolymer complex and an active substance and then causing or allowing the interpolyme r complex to encapsulate the active substance. The encapsulated product is the n separated from the supercritical fluid and, if necessary, the product is subjected to size reduction to ontain particles in which the active substanc e is encapsulated by the interpolymer complex.

 

 

METHOD OF PREPARING SMOKING FLUID

Abstract of RU2223654

FIELD: food industry. SUBSTANCE: smoking fluid suitable for manufacture of hot- and cold-smoking meet and fish products is prepared by pyrolysis of wood, extraction for 60-80 min with liquid extractant (1:2 to 1:3 argon/butane mixture) under supercritical conditions (pressure at least 4 MPa and temperature at 20 C), and isolation of desired product by dropping pressure to atmospheric value. EFFECT: increased yield of extractive substances, extended their spectrum, and increased biological value of product due to extracted fatty acids, and enlarged choice of suitable extractants. 2 cl, 1 tbl, 6 ex

 

 

A MICROCELLULAR FOAMED FIBER, AND A PROCESS OF PREPARING FOR THE SAME

Abstract of WO2004035884

The present invention discloses microcellular fibers, in which microcells are formed with a density of more than 10<7>cells/cm<3> with a supercritical fluid introduced into fiber forming polymers and have a rate of volume expansion of 1.2 to 50, a ratio of microcell length to microcell diameter of more than 2 and a monofilament diameter of more than 5 m. The microcellular fibers provide high and uniform cell densities and are good in the rate of volume expansion and the ratio of cell length to cell diameter, thus they are very excellent in lightweight feeling and touch. The microcellular fibers are made by a method for making microcellular fibers, wherein a supercritical fluid is introduced into an extruder upon melting and mixing fiber forming polymers in the extruder, to thus prepare a single-phase solution of molten polymer and gas, then the single-phase solution of molten polymer and gas is extruded (spun) through spinneret of spinning pack by subjecting the single-phase solution to a rapid pressure drop, to thus make microcellular extrusion materials, the microcellular extrusion materials are rapidly cooled by a cooling medium, and then they are wound at a winding speed of 10 to 6,000m/min so that a spinning draft can be 2 to 300.

 

 

HYDROTHERMAL MINERAL EXTRACTION

Abstract of WO2004033733

Described herein is a system and method for hydrothermal mineral extraction wherein the conditions surrounding hydrothermal systems are used advantageously to extract a mineral-rich brine. Specifically, hydrothermal fluid from ocean based or saline based hydrothermal systems contain a variety of minerals suspended in supercritical water and can be drawn up a well. As long as the water remains a supercritical fluid, the minerals remain largely in solution; however, as the hydrothermal fluid moves away from the this state, the water can cool and exit the supercritical state, causing the depositing or scaling of minerals along the walls of the well pipe. In the instant invention, non-supercritical conditions are rapidly induced onto the hydrothermal fluid such that the brine containing the minerals rapidly precipitates and forms a slurry which is then isolated from the water. Another aspect regards altering the chemistry of the fluid to precipitate the minerals. Another aspect of the invention is related to mineral-rich slurries isolated by this method and to specific minerals isolated therefrom.

 

 

TREATMENT OF POROUS ARTICLE

Abstract of WO2004026575

The present invention is a method for modifying at least one property of a porous membrane (16). The method comprises the steps of providing a porous membrane. The method also includes exposing the membrane to a fluid at supercritical conditions. At least one property of the membrane (16) is modified while the membrane is exposed to the fluid at supercritical conditions. The condition of the fluid is changed in such a manner that the porous membrane retains the modified property. The present invention is also sheet material that is water-resistant, moisture vapor transmissive and air permeable. The sheet material comprises a membrane having an open pore structure including surfaces defining a plurality of interconnecting pores (26) extending through the membrane and between major sides of said membrane in which the pores have an average pore size. The membrane is made from a material tending to absorb oils and contaminating agents. A uniform coating of precipitated fluorinated urethane polymer material (28) on at least portions of the surfaces of the nodes (22) and fibrils (24) defining the pores (26). The precipitated fluorinated urethane polymer material provides oil and contaminating agent resistance of at least a number 6 by AATCC 118 testing and an air permeability of at least 0.20 CFM per square foot by ASTM D737 testing.

 

 

METHOD OF COMBINING MATERIALS

Abstract of WO2004024802

A method for combining materials (such as impregnating materials with functional materials) uses a combination of supercritical fluid technology and polymer melt processing technology. The functional material is soluble in a near supercritical or supercritical fluid, which dissolves in the matrix/bulk material during melt processing. Controlling the processing conditions facilitates a change of state for the fluid, which results in the precipitation of the functional material in the bulk material. The impregnated bulk material may be shaped using conventional polymer based processing techniques such as extrusion and injection moulding.

 

 

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MEASURING PARTICLE DIAMETER DISTRIBUTION OF POWDER

Abstract of WO2004023109

A method for measuring the particle diameter distribution of a powder, which comprises suspending a powder prone to agglomeration in a supercritical fluid to form a supercritical suspension fluid, releasing the fluid under such a condition to vaporize the fluid to prepare an aerosol in which the powder prone to agglomeration is dispersed in a gas formed by vaporizing the supercritical fluid from the supercritical suspension fluid, and measuring the particle diameter distribution of aerosol particles in the aerosol; and an apparatus for practicing the method. The method allows highly precise measurement of the particle diameter distribution of a powder prone to agglomeration, through the measurement of the particle diameter distribution of the above novel aerosol particles.

 

 

AEROZOL PARTICLE, METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PREPARATION THEREOF, AND PSEUDO SPRAYED DROPLETS COMPRISING AEROZOL PARTICLES

Abstract of WO2004022218

A novel aerozol particle, characterized in that it is prepared by a method comprising suspending an aerosol forming material in a supercritical fluid to form a supercritical suspending fluid, and releasing the supercritical fluid under a circumstance condition sufficient to vaporize the fluid, to thereby generate aerosol particles from the aerosol forming material and disperse them in the gas formed from the supercritical fluid; and a method for preparing the novel aerosol particle. The novel aerozol particle allows the preparation of pseudo sprayed droplets comprising aerosol particles.

 

 

A method for the purification of marigold oleoresin

Abstract of EP1400509

Marigold oleoresin having a low viscosity and a high lutein content which can be filled in soft capsules can be obtained according to the method of the present invention, which is characterized by combining a step of subjecting oleoresin to supercritical fluid extraction and a step of dissolving oleoresin in a ketone solvent, cooling the solution and removing the ingredient which precipitated in solution.

 

 

PROCESS FOR PRODUCING POLYMERIC COMPOSITE MATERIAL

Abstract of WO2004016659

A process for producing a polymeric composite material excelling in the impregnation of a substrate with monomers and a polymerization initiator and accordingly containing a satisfactory amount of polymer. The process for producing a polymeric composite material comprises immersing a substrate in a supercritical fluid containing monomers and a polymerization initiator to thereby impregnate the substrate with the monomers and polymerization initiator and thereafter polymerizing the monomers.

 

 

Method for dyeing textile materials in a supercritical fluid

Abstract of TW552335

In a method for dyeing textile material with one or more fibre-reactive disperse dyestuffs in a supercritical or almost critical fluid, such as CO2, which textile material is selected from the group consisting of silk, wool and cellulose, combinations thereof and combinations of one or more thereof with synthetic fibres, such as polyester and/or polyamide, the relative humidity of the fluid is in the range from 10-100% during dyeing. Textile materials which have been dyed with the aid of this method have properties which are at least equal to those of textile materials of the same type which have been dyed in the traditional manner using water-soluble dyestuffs. A device for carrying out the dyeing method is also disclosed.

 

 

METHOD OF ENZYMATIC DEPOLYMERIZATION OF POLYLACTIC ACID AND PROCESS FOR PRODUCING POLYLACTIC ACID FROM DEPOLYMERIZATION PRODUCT

Abstract of WO2004013217

A method of polylactic acid depolymerization which comprises depolymerizing polylactic acid in an organic solvent or supercritical fluid in the presence of a hydrolase to yield a repolymerizable oligomer; and a process for producing polylactic acid in which the repolymerizable oligomer obtained by the depolymerization method is polymerized in the presence of a hydrolase or polymerization catalyst.

 

 

ADSORBENTS FOR SMOKING ARTICLES COMPRISING A NON-VOLATILE ORGANIC COMPOUND APPLIED USING A SUPERCRITICAL FLUID

Abstract of WO2004010802

A surface-modified adsorbent and a process for making a surface- modified adsorbent are provided. The process involves providing an adsorbent and a non-volatile organic compound to a vessel, adjusting the temperature and/or pressure to provide supercritical conditions for a supercritical fluid, and introducing the supercritical fluid into the vessel. The supercritical fluid dissolves the non-volatile organic compound, and impregnates the adsorbent with the non- volatile organic compound. The surface-modified adsorbent can be used, for example, in cut filler compositions, cigarette filters, and smoking articles. Methods for making cigarette filters, cigarettes and for smoking a cigarette comprising the surface-modified adsorbent are also provided. The surface- modified adsorbents can be used to remove one or more selected components from mainstream smoke, without removing other components, such as those that contribute to flavor.

 

 

Supercritical Refrigeration System

Abstract of EP1389720

A method for providing refrigeration to a refrigeration load which enables the use of environmentally friendly refrigerants with lower power consumption than with conventional refrigerants wherein the low side pressure of the circuit exceeds the critical pressure of the refrigerant fluid and the refrigerant fluid is compressed to a higher supercritical pressure prior to expansion.

 

  United States Patent and Trademark Office
                   US Patent Abstrac
Results of Search in 1976 to present db for:
"Supercritical Fluid": 2619patents.  
Compositions comprising tetramantanes and processes for their separation [November 9, 2004]
Disclosed are compositions comprising one or more tetramantanes. Specifically disclosed are compositions comprising 10 to 100 weight percent of one or more tetramantanes. Also disclosed are novel processes for the separation and isolation of tetramantane components into recoverable fractions from a feedstock containing at least a higher diamondoid component which contains one or more tetramantane components.
Birch bark processing and the isolation of natural products from birch bark [November 9, 2004]
The invention provides methods for separating outer birch bark from inner birch bark. The invention also provides methods for isolating betulin; lupeol; betulinic acid; 9,10-epoxy-18-hydroxyoctadecanoic acid; 9,10,18-trihydroxyoctadecanoic acid; polyphenolic polymers and fatty acids from birch bark.
Delivery of physiologically active compounds through an inhalation route [November 9, 2004]
The present invention relates to the delivery of physiologically active compounds through an inhalation route. Specifically, it relates to aerosols containing physiologically active compounds that are used in inhalation therapy. In a composition aspect of the present invention, the aerosol comprises particles comprising at least 5 percent by weight of chlordiazepoxide, betahistine, clonidine, testosterone, conjugated estrogens, estrogen esters, estradiol, estradiol esters, ethinyl estradiol, ethinyl estradiol esters, or hyoscyamine. In a method aspect of the present invention, chlordiazepoxide, betahistine, clonidine, testosterone, conjugated estrogens, estrogen esters, estradiol, estradiol esters, ethinyl estradiol, ethinyl estradiol esters, or hyoscyamine is delivered to a mammal through an inhalation route. The method comprises: a) heating a composition, wherein the composition comprises at least 5 percent by weight of chlordiazepoxide, betahistine, clonidine, testosterone, conjugated estrogens, estrogen esters, estradiol, estradiol esters, ethinyl estradiol, ethinyl estradiol esters, or hyoscyamine, to form a vapor; and, b) allowing the vapor to cool, thereby forming a condensation aerosol comprising particles, which is inhaled by the mammal. In a kit aspect of the present invention, a kit for delivering chlordiazepoxide, betahistine, clonidine, testosterone, conjugated estrogens, estrogen esters, estradiol, estradiol esters, ethinyl estradiol, ethinyl estradiol esters, or hyoscyamine through an inhalation route to a mammal is provided which comprises: a) a composition comprising at least 5 percent by weight of chlordiazepoxide, betahistine, clonidine, testosterone, conjugated estrogens, estrogen esters, estradiol, estradiol esters, ethinyl estradiol, ethinyl estradiol esters, or hyoscyamine; and, b) a device that forms a chlordiazepoxide, betahistine, clonidine, testosterone, conjugated estrogens, estrogen esters, estradiol, estradiol esters, ethinyl estradiol, ethinyl estradiol esters, or hyoscyamine containing aerosol from the composition, for inhalation by the mammal.
Delivery of compounds for the treatment of Parkinsons through an inhalation route  [November 9, 2004]
The present invention relates to the delivery of compounds for the treatment of Parkinsons through an inhalation route. Specifically, it relates to aerosols containing antiparkinsonian drugs that are used in inhalation therapy. In a composition aspect of the present invention, the aerosol comprises particles comprising at least 5 percent by weight of an antiparkinsonian drug. In a method aspect of the present invention, an antiparkinsonian drug is delivered to a mammal through an inhalation route. The method comprises: a) heating a composition, wherein the composition comprises at least 5 percent by weight of an antiparkinsonian drug to form a vapor; and, b) allowing the vapor to cool, thereby forming a condensation aerosol comprising particles, which is inhaled by the mammal. In a kit aspect of the present invention, a kit for delivering an antiparkinsonian drug through an inhalation route to a mammal is provided which comprises: a) a composition comprising at least 5 percent by weight of an antiparkinsonian drug; and, b) a device that forms an antiparkinsonian drug containing aerosol from the composition, for inhalation by the mammal.
Frit material and bonding method for microfluidic separation devices [November 9, 2004]
A frit for use in multi-layer microfluidic separation devices is provided. The frit comprises a polymeric membrane that may be securely bonded within the device and minimizes lateral wicking. A secure bond is ensured by treating the polymer to match its surface energy to that of the materials to which it is bound. Treatments include plasma treatment, irradiation and the application of acids.
Methods for separation/purification utilizing rapidly cycled thermal swing sorption [November 9, 2004]
The present invention provides apparatus and methods for separating fluid components. In preferred embodiments, the apparatus and methods utilize microchannel devices with small distances for heat and mass transfer to achieve rapid cycle times and surprisingly large volumes of fluid components separated in short times using relatively compact hardware.
(6,812,371) Compositions comprising nonamantanes and processes for their separation[November 2, 2004]
Disclosed are compositions comprising one or more nonamantanes. Specifically disclosed are compositions comprising 25 to 100 weight percent of one or more nonamantanes. Also disclosed are novel processes for the separation and isolation of nonamantane components into recoverable fractions from a feedstock containing at least a higher diamondoid component which contains one or more nonamantane components.
(6,812,370) Compositions comprising hexamantanes and processes for their separation[November 2, 2004]  
Disclosed are compositions comprising one or more hexamantanes. Specifically disclosed are compositions comprising 25 to 100 weight percent of one or more hexamantanes. Also disclosed are novel processes for the separation and isolation of hexamantane components into recoverable fractions from a feedstock containing at least a higher diamondoid component which contains one or more hexamantane components.
Hydroetching of high surface area ceramics using moist supercritical fluids[November 2, 2004]  
Aerogels having a high density of hydroxyl groups and a more uniform pore size with fewer bottlenecks are described. The aerogel is exposed to a mixture of a supercritical fluid and water, whereupon the aerogel forms a high density of hydroxyl groups. The process also relaxes the aerogel into a more open uniform internal structure, in a process referred to as hydroetching. The hydroetching process removes bottlenecks from the aerogels, and forms the hydrogels into more standard pore sizes while preserving their high surface area.
Methods for determining oil in seeds [October 26, 2004]
The present invention relates to methods for analyzing agricultural products. More particularly, the present invention relates to methods for analysis of the oil content of one or more seeds.
Method of using carbide and/or oxycarbide containing compositions[October 26, 2004]
Compositions including carbide-containing nanorods and/or oxycarbide-containing nanorods and/or carbon nanotubes bearing carbides and oxycarbides and methods of making the same are provided. Rigid porous structures including oxycarbide-containing nanorods and/or carbide containing nanorods and/or carbon nanotubes bearing carbides and oxycarbides and methods of making the same are also provided. The compositions and rigid porous structures of the invention can be used either as catalyst and/or catalyst supports in fluid phase catalytic chemical reactions. Processes for making supported catalyst for selected fluid phase catalytic reactions are also provided.
Method for producing organometallic compounds [October 26, 2004]
This invention relates to liquid cyclopentadienyltrimethylplatinum compounds selected from (isopropylcyclopentadienyl)trimethylplatinum and (tert-butylcyclopentadienyl)trimethylplatinum. This invention also relates to a process for producing a film, coating or powder by decomposing a cyclopentadienyltrimethylplatinum compound precursor selected from (isopropylcyclopentadienyl)trimethylplatinum and (tert-butylcyclopentadienyl)-trimethylplatinum, thereby producing the film, coating or powder. This invention further relates to a one pot method for producing an organometallic compound comprising reacting a metal source compound, an alkylating agent and a cyclopentadienyl compound under reaction conditions sufficient to produce said organometallic compound.
Nitrogen-containing group-13 anionic compounds for olefin polymerization[October 26, 2004]
The invention addresses an composition of matter comprising a cation [Ct].sup.+ and an anion [A].sup.-, the anion comprises a core Group-13 element bound to partially or completely fluorinated fluoroaryl ligands, at least one of the fluoroaryl ligands is substituted with a Group-15 element that has been rendered essentially inert for subsequent chemical reaction through its unbonded electron pair by substituting an electron-withdrawing group on it. [Ct].sup.+ may be selected from anilinium and ammonium cations, trityl carbenium cations, Group-11 metal cations, silylium cations, the cations of the hydrated salts of Group-1 or -2 metals, and derivatives of the foregoing anilinium, ammonium, trityl carbenium, and silylium cations containing C.sub.1 -C.sub.20 hydrocarbyl, hydrocarbylsilyl, or hydrocarbylamine substituents for one or more hydrogen atoms of said cations. The compositions can be used to activate olefin polymerization catalysts, and can be prepared to dissolve in aliphatic solvents. Syntheses and polymerization are illustrated.
Aerogel type platinum-tuthenium-carbon catalyst, method for manufacturing the same and direct methanol fuel cell comprising the same[October 26, 2004] 
An aerogel type platinum-ruthenium-carbon catalyst of microporous structure maintaining long-term high catalytic activity, suitable for a direct methanol fuel cell, is manufactured by a sol-gel process, and supercritical drying while maintaining a microporous structure. The catalyst contains 5 to 70% by weight of platinum and ruthenium, remainder carbon, the platinum and ruthenium atomic ratio being of 1/4 to 4/1. Metal salts and base catalyst are added to a solution of organic gel materials, a solution of basic amine is added to the first solution, and the pH of the resulting solution is adjusted forming a sol, the sol is aged at 40 to 90 for 1 to 20 days forming and stabilizing the gel, solvent is removed from the gel by supercritical drying, and finally the aerogel is carbonized in an inert atmosphere, followed by hydrogen reduction.
Chromium compounds and olefin polymerization processes utilizing them [October 26, 2004]
An olefin polymerization catalyst system, comprising a catalyst represented by the general formula CrR.sub.4, wherein each R is independently a hydrocarbyl or substituted hydrocarbyl, with the proviso that R may not be a cyclopentadienyl group, an activator represented by the general formula, MQ.sub.2, where M is a Group II metal, where each Q is independently an alkyl, or substituted alkyl; and a support. The support may be organic or inorganic. Ethylene and one or more olefins may be polymerized by the catalyst system.
Device and method for physiochemical measurements [October 26, 2004]
The invention relates to a microfabricated device for use in measuring the physical properties of compounds, where the properties measured using such devices are those which involve partitioning of the compound between two phases, measuring partition coefficients, distribution coefficients, acid-base dissociation constants, solubility and vapour pressure. The device comprises a microfabricated conduit, in which two fluids flow creating at least two phases between which the compound may partition, and a detector for measuring the amount of compound in each or both fluids.
Porous, fine inorganic particles [October 26, 2004]
The present invention provides an amorphous porous inorganic substance having small particle sizes and uniform pores, a process for synthesizing the same, and use of the same. The invention provides an amorphous porous inorganic substance having pores of a uniform pore diameter, which has an average particle size D.sub.L of 10 to 400 nm as measured by a dynamic light scattering method and a specific surface area difference, S.sub.B -S.sub.L, between a conversion specific surface area S.sub.L calculated from D.sub.L and a nitrogen adsorption specific surface area S.sub.B obtained by the BET method, of 250 m.sup.2 /g or more. A process for synthesizing the same and use of the same are also disclosed. Methods and apparatus for processing temperature sensitive materials [October 26, 2004]
A method and system (10) for selectively removing one component of a material thereby concentrating other components of the material are disclosed. The material is cooled to below the melting temperature of the material to form a supercooled liquid phase with heat transfer plate with cooling channels (20). Ultrasonic energy from ultrasonic drivers (42) is applied to the material to form solid phase crystals of the component to be removed. These crystals are removed to leave the concentrated products. The ultrasonic energy prevents the growth of dendrites on the crystals, resulting in the formation and removal of small crystals of the component to be removed without damage to or removal of the remaining components. Methods and apparatuses for cryoprecipilation and chromatography are also disclosed.
Expanded porous thermoplastic polymer membranes and device for the production thereof [October 26, 2004]
Open celled membranes from thermoplastic polymers are prepared from foamed polymer melts by extrusion through a die.
Method for lubricating MEMS components [October 19, 2004]
The present invention provides, in one aspect, a method of manufacturing a MEMS assembly. In one embodiment, the method includes mounting a MEMS device, such as a MEMS mirror array, on an assembly substrate. The method further includes coupling an assembly lid to the assembly substrate and over the MEMS device to create an interior of the MEMS assembly housing the MEMS device, whereby the coupling maintains an opening to the interior of the MEMS assembly. Furthermore, the method includes lubricating/passivating the MEMS device through the opening. In addition, a MEMS assembly constructed according to a process of the present invention is also disclosed.
Continuous method and apparatus for separating polymer from a high pressure carbon dioxide fluid stream [October 19, 2004]
A method for continuously separating polymer from a high pressure fluid stream comprises subjecting the high pressure fluid stream comprising polymer particles to a filter, wherein the filter segregates the high pressure fluid stream from the polymer particles; subjecting the polymer particles to a rotating device which transports the polymer particles away from the filter, wherein the polymer particles are exposed to thermal conditions sufficient to melt the polymer particles and form a seal surrounding at least a portion of the rotating device; and separating the molten polymer from the rotating device. The method is carried out such that the separation of polymer from the high pressure fluid stream occurs under steady-state.
Branched substituted amino derivatives of 3-amino-1-phenyl-1h-[1,2,4]triazol, methods for producing them and pharmaceutical compositions containing them [October 19, 2004]
The present invention relates to novel branched substituted amino derivatives of 3-amino-1-phenyl-1H-[1,2,4]triazole, processes for their preparation and pharmaceutical compositions comprising them.
High activity carbenium-activated polymerization catalysts [October 19, 2004]
 This application discloses triphenyl carbenium NCA's as catalyst activators for a class of asymmetrically bridged hafnocene catalyst precursors. These catalyst precursors are activated into olefin polymerization catalysts and are suitable for gas, solution, and slurry-phase polymerization reactions. The disclosed bridge is methylenyl- or silanylenyl-based and is optionally, alkyl or aryl substituted. The catalytic activity of the disclosed hafnocene catalyst precursors is substantially enhanced over identical catalysts that are activated with other activators.
Stiction-free microstructure releasing method for fabricating MEMS device [October 19, 2004]
 Disclosed is a a method of fabricating a MEMS device by means of surface micromachining without leaving any stiction or residues by etching silicon oxide of a sacrificial layer, which is an intermediate layer between a substrate and a microstructure, rather than by etching silicon oxide of a semiconductor device. The method according to the invention includes the steps of supplying alcohol vapor bubbled with anhydrous HF, maintaining a temperature of the supplying device and a moving path of the anhydrous HF and the alcohol to be higher than a boiling point of the alcohol, performing a vapor etching by controlling a temperature and a pressure to be within the vapor region of a phase equilibrium diagram of water, and removing silicon oxide of a sacrificial layer on a lower portion of the microstructure.
Delivery of sumatriptan, frovatriptan or naratriptan through an inhalation route [October 19, 2004]
The present invention relates to the delivery of anti-migraine compounds through an inhalation route. Specifically, it relates to aerosols containing sumatriptan, frovatriptan, or naratriptan that are used in inhalation therapy. In a composition aspect of the present invention, the aerosol comprises particles comprising at least 5 percent by weight of sumatriptan, frovatriptan, or naratriptan. In a method aspect of the present invention, one of sumatriptan, frovatriptan, or naratriptan is delivered to a mammal through an inhalation route. The method comprises: a) heating a composition, wherein the composition comprises at least 5 percent by weight of sumatriptan, frovatriptan, or naratriptan, to form a vapor; and, b) allowing the vapor to cool, thereby forming a condensation aerosol comprising particles, which is inhaled by the mammal. In a kit aspect of the present invention, a kit for delivering sumatriptan, frovatriptan, or naratriptan through an inhalation route to a mammal is provided which comprises: a) a composition comprising at least 5 percent by weight of sumatriptan, frovatriptan, or naratriptan; and, b) a device that forms a sumatriptan, frovatriptan, or naratriptan aerosol from the composition, for inhalation by the mammal.
Built-in purifier for horizontal liquefied gas cylinders [October 19, 2004]
An apparatus for purifying a gaseous product delivered from a horizontal container containing a supply of a fluid includes an elongated hollow tube inside the container and a purifying medium inside the tube. The tube has a first opening, a second opening spaced apart from the first opening, and an internal axis between the first and second openings. The first opening is in fluid communication with a port and the second opening is in fluid communication with a vapor space in the container. A portion of the internal axis adjacent the second opening is at an angle greater than zero degrees relative to the horizontal longitudinal axis of the container.
Method and apparatus to remove additives and contaminants from a supercritical processing solution  [October 19, 2004]
The present invention pertains to methods and apparatus for removal of one or more solutes from a supercritical process solution. Solute additives and contaminants are removed from supercritical processing solutions via a contaminant removal system that is either part of the process vessel itself or is part of a local recirculation loop in fluid communication with the process vessel. This invention provides supercritical processing methods and apparatus for the removal of additives and contaminants during circulation so that depressurization and substrate removal can occur without contamination. The removal in some cases, for example cleaning residue, can be done continuously during a process to improve its efficiency. Removal mechanisms may include separation, destruction, conversion of the contaminant to acceptable species, or combinations thereof.
Process for the production of polysiloxane-based polymeric compositions for use in medical devices [October 19, 2004]
A process for producing polysiloxane prepolymers of improved homogeneity for use in the production of relatively high refractive index polymeric compositions is described herein. Polymeric compositions so produced are useful in the production of ophthalmic devices such as for example intraocular lenses and corneal inlays. The preferred polymeric compositions are produced through the copolymerization of one or more polysiloxane prepolymers with hydrosilane-containing polysiloxanes.
In situ thermal processing of a hydrocarbon containing formation to produce hydrocarbon fluids and synthesis gas [October 19, 2004]

A hydrocarbon containing formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. A mixture of hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a pyrolysis temperature. After pyrolysis, the portion may be heated to a synthesis gas production temperature. A synthesis gas producing fluid may be introduced into the portion to generate synthesis gas. Synthesis gas may be produced from the formation in a batch manner or in a substantially continuous manner.
Method for drying microstructure member [October 19, 2004]
Method for drying a microstructure member having many micro concavities in a surface, the micro concavities containing water, includes adjusting the temperature of liquid inside the micro concavities to a temperature in the range of the cloud point of a surfactant .+-.1.degree. C., and supplying a mixture of the surfactant and a hydrophobic solvent adjusted to a temperature in the range of the cloud point .+-.1.degree. C. into the micro concavities to remove part or all of the water; heating the liquid inside the micro concavities to a temperature exceeding the cloud point +1.degree. C., and supplying the hydrophobic solvent controlled to a temperature exceeding the cloud point +1.degree. C. into the micro concavities to replace the liquid in the concavities with the hydrophobic solvent; and placing the resulting microstructure member with the concavities into contact with liquid or supercritical carbon dioxide to replace the hydrophobic solvent with the liquid or supercritical carbon dioxide.
Additives based on components present in petroleum for improving the cold flow properties of crude and distillate oils[October 12, 2004]
The invention relates to an additive for improving the cold-flow properties of crude and distillate oils, where the additive is obtainable by extraction of crude oil with supercritical gas.
Delivery of erectile dysfunction drugs through an inhalation route[October 12, 2004]
The present invention relates to the delivery of erectile dysfunction drugs through an inhalation route. Specifically, it relates to aerosols containing erectile dysfunction drugs that are used in inhalation therapy. In a composition aspect of the present invention, the aerosol comprises particles comprising at least 5 percent by weight of an erectile dysfunction drug. In a method aspect of the present invention, an erectile dysfunction drug is delivered to a mammal through an inhalation route. The method comprises: a) heating a composition, wherein the composition comprises at least 5 percent by weight of an erectile dysfunction drug, to form a vapor; and, b) allowing the vapor to cool, thereby forming a condensation aerosol comprising particles, which is inhaled by the mammal. In a kit aspect of the present invention, a kit for delivering an erectile dysfunction drug through an inhalation route to a mammal is provided which comprises: a) a composition comprising at least 5 percent by weight of an erectile dysfunction drug; and, b) a device that forms an erectile dysfunction drug aerosol from the composition, for inhalation by the mammal.
Dense fluid cleaning centrifugal phase shifting separation process and apparatus [October 12, 2004]
The present invention is an apparatus and process for cleaning substrates using dense fluids under the influence of centrifugal force and dense fluid phase changes. A perforated centrifuge drum operates within a pressure vessel having drains and fill ports. System controls include a high optical sensor, a low optical sensor, a pressure transducer, and a thermocouple. An external dense fluid cleaning and management system exchanges dense fluid and gas with the pressure vessel via the drain and fill ports. Dense fluid centrifugal separations prevent pooling and supercooling of liquid carbon dioxide avoiding recontamination of the substrate. The present invention can perform solvent-aided separation processes including liquid-liquid, liquid-supercritical-fluid, froth flotation and centrifugal phase-shift separations.
Chemical process [October 5, 2004]
The invention is directed to a process for carrying out a chemical reaction in a reactor, comprising passing a reaction mixture in liquid phase through at least one structured reactor element present in said reactor, the internal surface of said reactor element that comes into contact with the reaction mixture being catalytically active, the improvement comprising passing said reaction mixture through the said at least one reactor element, said reaction mixture comprising at least one liquid and at least one gas in liquid phase.
Catalyst regeneration [October 5, 2004]
There is provided a process for regenerating the activity of used metal catalysts for the hydrogenation of carbon monoxide comprising decreasing the hydrocarbon content thereof, calcining under an oxidant-containing atmosphere, impregnating with a solution of at least one of a metal compound, calcining under an oxidant-containing atmosphere and activating by contacting with a hydrogen-contacting gas at elevated temperatures to form an active catalyst. The process regenerates and enhances both supported and dispersed active metal (DAM) catalysts. Used catalysts enhanced by the process are initially treated to decrease their hydrocarbon content. The treatment may be carried out in a single reactor, or by carrying out up to all steps after catalyst may be withdrawn from a reactor and returned to at least one reactor, both preferably during operation thereof. Up to all steps may be effected in a subsequent reactor, or in specialized apparatus.
Method for fractionating cooking oil [October 5, 2004]
The invention concerns a method for fractionating cooking oil, in particular frying oil, using a solvent with supercritical pressure. The method is characterized in that it comprises steps which consist in: contacting, in a mixer, the cooking oil with the solvent with supercritical pressure; separating the resulting mixture into two phases in a decanter, namely a light phase and a heavy phase; decompressing the light phase and the heavy phase so as to recuperate the solvent, and the treated oil and the treatment residues respectively.
Process for preparing starch coated potato products  [October 5, 2004]
The present invention provides a process for preparing a potato product with a film-like coating on the outer surface according to the steps of: cutting the potatoes; blanching the potatoes; and coating the potatoes with a dry coating composition comprising at least 50% by weight dextrin and from 5% to 25% by weight of a hydrolyzed starch characterized by a DE of from 0.2 to 5. The method provides coated potato products (french fries) characterized by desirable textural properties at low coating weights.
Method for removing photoresist and post-etch residue using activated peroxide followed by supercritical fluid treatment [October 5, 2004]
Methods for cleaning semiconductor wafers are presented. Contaminants, particularly photoresist and post-etch residue, are removed from semiconductor wafers. A wafer or wafers is first treated with a peroxide-containing medium, for example, to oxidatively cleave bond structures of contaminants on the wafer work surface. Excitation energy is used to activate the peroxide-containing medium toward the formation of radical species. After treatment with the peroxide-containing medium, a supercritical fluid treatment is used to remove any remaining contaminants as well as to condition the wafer for subsequent processing.
Apparatus for contaminant removal using natural convection flow and changes in solubility concentrations by temperature[October 5, 2004]
An apparatus comprising multiple heating, cooling, and/or cleaning zones. The apparatus produces a jet flow of solvent/cleaning fluid onto an article to be cleaned without the need for a pump or compressor. The jet flow provides more effective contaminant removal. The multiple zones result in increased residence time for increased efficiency in separating the solubilized contaminant from the solvent/cleaning fluid.
Compressor and refrigerant system device using the same[September 28, 2004]  The present specification discloses a compressor characterized in that a nonpolar solvent is used as a working fluid and an insulation part of a rotating section is formed from a low dielectric constant plastic film having a specific dielectric constant of 1.2 to 3.0. This compressor has been reduced in leakage current and improved in safety and reliability, and therefore can realize energy savings for devices such as a refrigerant system device.
Deflocculation apparatus and methods thereof[September 28, 2004] 
A method including: sonicating a stream containing a dispersion comprised of agglomerated primary particles; and filtering the resulting sonicated stream containing a dispersion comprised of de-agglomerated primary particles. An apparatus including: an ultrasonic adapter to ultrasonicate a stream of a liquid dispersion of agglomerated primary particles; and a filter member adapted to filter the resulting ultrasonicated stream containing a dispersion of de-agglomerated primary particles; and optionally a coater adapted to coat the resulting filtered stream containing a dispersion of de-agglomerated primary particles onto a receiver.
Delivery of muscle relaxants through an inhalation route[September 28, 2004]  The present invention relates to the delivery of muscle relaxants through an inhalation route. Specifically, it relates to aerosols containing a muscle relaxant that is used in inhalation therapy. In a composition aspect of the present invention, the aerosol comprises particles comprising at least 5 percent by weight of muscle relaxant. In a method aspect of the present invention, a muscle relaxant is delivered to a mammal through an inhalation route. The method comprises: a) heating a composition, wherein the composition comprises at least 5 percent by weight of a muscle relaxant, to form a vapor; and, b) allowing the vapor to cool, thereby forming a condensation aerosol comprising particles, which is inhaled by the mammal. In a kit aspect of the present invention, a kit for delivering a muscle relaxant through an inhalation route to a mammal is provided which comprises: a) a composition comprising at least 5 percent by weight of a muscle relaxant; and, b) a device that forms a muscle relaxant containing aerosol from the composition, for inhalation by the mammal.
Closure for containers, in particular plug for bottles[September 28, 2004] 
A closure for containers having an opening, comprising substantially rigid supporting and sealing means for insertion in a container opening, and a covering body made of flexible and resilient plastic material which covers at least a portion of and is connected to the supporting and sealing means, and is adapted to close the container opening. The supporting and sealing means comprise an upper and lower support and sealing element operatively joined together to support the covering body in a longitudinal direction to prevent elongation of the plastic material of the covering body.
Method of dyeing a textile substrate in at least one supercritical fluid and a dyeing device[September 28, 2004] 
A method and a device for dyeing a textile substrate in at least one supercritical fluid, are described, whereby the textile substrate is arranged in an autoclave, where at least one supercritical fluid loaded with a dyestuff flows over and/or through the textile substrate, and the at least one powdered dyestuff is brought in contact with the supercritical fluid, forming a stable solution and/or dispersion of the dyestuff in the supercritical fluid. The quantity of dyestuff required for dyeing is divided into a plurality of dyestuff partial quantities, and each partial quantity of dyestuff is separately brought in contact with the supercritical fluid until this partial quantity of dyestuff is dissolved or dispersed. Hereafter the next partial quantity of dyestuff is introduced into the supercritical fluid, and this process is repeated several times until the total quantity of dyestuff has been introduced into the supercritical fluid.
Air conditioning system comprising an electronic control device[September 28, 2004]
The invention proposes an air conditioning system for motor vehicles which is fitted with an injection computer and an electronic control device. The system comprises a first measuring member suitable for supplying a value relating to the pressure of the fluid at a first point in the air conditioning circuit which is situated between the outlet of the expansion member and the outlet of the evaporator, and a second measuring member suitable for supplying a value relating to the pressure of the fluid at a second point in the air conditioning circuit which is situated at the inlet to the compressor. The electronic control device makes use of the solution of an equation which relates the mass flow rate of the refrigerant fluid to the difference in pressure between the first point and the second point in order to calculate an estimate of a magnitude relating to the refrigerant fluid.
Apparatus for conserving vapor in a carbon dioxide dry cleaning system[September 28, 2004] 
A method for conserving carbon dioxide vapor in a carbon dioxide dry cleaning system employing a liquid carbon dioxide cleaning solution to clean articles, where the method includes removing carbon dioxide vapor from a wash tank to a vapor tank, storing the carbon dioxide vapor in the vapor tank; and charging the wash tank with carbon dioxide vapor from the vapor tank. The method may be performed as part of a wash cycle that includes filling the wash tank with cleaning solution, washing articles to be cleaned in the wash tank, and emptying the cleaning solution out of the wash tank. An apparatus may also be employed for conserving carbon dioxide vapor in a carbon dioxide dry cleaning system employing a liquid carbon dioxide cleaning solution to clean articles, where the apparatus includes a wash tank for contacting the articles to be cleaned with the liquid carbon dioxide cleaning solution, a working tank for storing liquid carbon dioxide cleaning solution, a vapor tank for storing carbon dioxide vapor, a first piping system providing fluid communication between the wash tank and the vapor tank, where the first piping system includes a first line and a first valve residing in the first line, and a second piping system providing fluid communication between the working tank and the wash tank. Methods and apparatus for collecting liquid carbon dioxide in a collecting tank are also provided.
Method for the preparation of tetrahydrobenzothiepines[September 21, 2004] Among its several embodiments, the present invention provides an improved process for the preparation of tetrahydrobenzothiepine-1,1-dioxide compounds; the provision of a process for preparing a diastereomeric mixture of tetrahydrobenzothiepine-1,1-dioxide compounds from a single diastereomer of such compounds; the provision of a process for the preparation of 3-bromo-2-substituted propionaldehyde compounds; and the provision of a process for the preparation of 3-thio-2-substituted propionaldehyde compounds. ##STR1## ##STR2##
Method for purification of vinyl polymers [September 21, 2004]
This invention provides a method for purification of a vinyl polymer which comprises the atom transfer radical polymerization of a vinyl monomer using a transition metal complex as the polymerization catalyst, said vinyl polymer being brought into contact with an oxidizing agent or a reducing agent.
Chromatographic packing materials and methods of making and using such packing materials[September 21, 2004]
Increased stability of derivitization agents on the surfaces of packing material used in choromatography is described. In particular, the stability of the organosilanes on silicia surfaces used in chromatography is increased, thereby creating a more durable coating of organosilanes. By increasing its stability, the organosilane entity becomes more resistant to de-bonding and the durability of the underlying surface is enhanced against dissolution. Thus, chromatographic separations are able to be performed at higher and lower pH ranges and higher temperatures. The stability can be increased through attachment of polydentate silanes which are either pre-polymerized and then surface bonded or can be bonded first and then cross-polymerized afterward, yielding a polymerized polycarbosilane backbone that is very stable against hydrolytic cleavage conditions.
Methods of chemical vapor deposition and powder formation[September 21, 2004]
A method for chemical vapor deposition using a very fine atomization or vaporization of a reagent containing liquid or liquid-like fluid near its supercritical temperature, where the resulting atomized or vaporized solution is entered into a flame or a plasma torch, and a powder is formed or a coating is deposited onto a substrate. The combustion flame can be stable from 10 torr to multiple atmospheres, and provides the energetic environment in which the reagent contained within the fluid can be reacted to form the desired powder or coating material on a substrate. The plasma torch likewise produces the required energy environment, but, unlike the flame, no oxidizer is needed so materials stable in only very low oxygen partial pressures can be formed. Using either the plasma torch or the combustion plasma, coatings can be deposited and powders formed in the open atmosphere without the necessity of a reaction chamber, but a chamber may be used for various reasons including process separation from the environment and pressure regulation.
Electrochemical treating method such as electroplating and electrochemical reaction device therefor[September 21, 2004]
A novel method of electrochemical treatment such as electroplating, etc. and an electrochemical reaction apparatus thereof which is high in reactability and able to be electrochemically reacted efficiently, which is small or zero in amount of generation of liquid waste such as electrolytic solution and cleaning liquid and therefore, amicable to the environment, and in which it is no more required to clean the electrode, etc. with cleaning liquid after reaction. Electrochemical reaction is executed in a reaction vessel (6) containing matter (5) which is in a supercritical or subcritical state and an electrolytic solution (1), and after reaction, the supercritical or subcritical matter (5) is shifted into a state of the matter (5) before being shifted into a critical state.
Method for protection of stone with fluorinated urethane [September 14, 2004]
This invention relates to the application of fluorinated urethane compositions to stone in order to protect the stone from the deleterious effects of water and pollution.
Methods of making foamed materials of blended thermoplastic polymers using carbon dioxide [September 14, 2004]
A method of producing a foamed material comprises contacting a mixture comprising a first thermoplastic polymer and a second thermoplastic polymer with a blowing agent, wherein the first thermoplastic polymer has a higher percent crystallinity that the second thermoplastic polymer; and subjecting the mixture to conditions sufficient to create a thermodynamic instability in the blend foam the mixture, wherein the mixture comprising the first and second thermoplastic polymers has a percent crystallinity lower than the first thermoplastic polymer.
High modulus filler for low k materials [September 14, 2004]
Disclosed are methods for processing a low k material involving providing a low k material layer comprising one or more low k polymer materials and one or more high modulus fillers on a semiconductor substrate, and chemical mechanical polishing the low k material layer so as to remove a portion of the low k material layer from the semiconductor substrate without substantially damaging unremoved portions of the low k material layer. In this connection, low k material layers for a semiconductor structure containing one or more low k polymer materials and one or more high modulus fillers are disclosed, as well as methods of making the low k material layers.
Three-dimensional multichip module [September 14, 2004]
A three-dimensional multichip module having a base structure formed by a plurality of chips secured together in a stack and a plurality of exterior chips mounted to the exterior faces of the base structure. The multichip module may incorporate memory chips, processor chips, logic chips, A to D converter chips, and other chips in a compact package. The module permits chips that require extensive cooling to be positioned within the structure in a manner such that a large surface area of the chip is not in contact with other chips. The module also permits extensive interconnection between chips within the module.
Method for chemical analysis of biological material [September 14, 2004]
A chemical analysis method for determining chemically related differences between subject biological material such as genetically modified plant material and control biological material such as genetically unmodified plant material, which method includes at least the following six steps. The first step is to contact the subject biological material with a fluid extractant, such as a mixture of water, isopropanol and potassium hydroxide, to produce a fluid extract of the subject biological material. The second step is to contact the control biological material with the fluid extractant to produce a fluid extract of the control biological material. The third step is to chromatograph the fluid extract of the subject biological material, for example, gas or fluid chromatography, to produce a chromatogram of the fluid extract of the subject biological material. The fourth step is to chromatograph the fluid extract of the control biological material to produce a chromatogram of the fluid extract of the control biological material. The fifth step is to determine the differences between the chromatograms, for example, by using the method of U.S. Pat. No. 5,592,402, to identify at least one outlier peak. The sixth step is to determine the chemical identity of the outlier peak, for example, using gas chromatography/mass spectroscopy analysis of the outlier peak.
Method for producing patterned deposition from compressed fluid [September 14, 2004]
A method produces patterned deposition on a substrate (14) from compressed fluid. A delivery system (12) cooperates with a controlled environment (30, 100, 200) retaining a substrate (14) for receiving precipitated functional material 44 along a fluid delivery path (13) from the delivery system (12). A mask (22) is arranged in close proximity to the substrate (14) for forming the patterned deposition on the substrate (14).
In situ thermal processing of a hydrocarbon containing formation using exposed metal heat sources [September 14, 2004]
A hydrocarbon containing formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. Hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation from heat sources to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a desired temperature. Some of the heat sources may include heater elements. The heater elements may be lengths of bare metal disposed within wellbores within the formation. Organo-titanate catalysts for preparing pure macrocyclic oligoesters[September 7, 2004]
Organo-titanate catalysts are prepared that are useful to catalyze depolymerization of a polyester to produce macrocyclic oligoesters substantially free from macrocyclic co-oligoesters. Supported catalyst treatment [September 7, 2004]
There is provided a process for renewing the activity of supported metal catalysts for the hydrogenation of carbon monoxide to form a mixture of hydrocarbons comprising decreasing the hydrocarbon content of the catalyst, preferably by contact with hydrogen-containing gas at elevated temperatures, impregnating under a non-oxidizing atmosphere with a solution of at least one of an ammonium salt and an alkyl ammonium salt, optionally in combination with up to five moles of ammonia per liter of solution to the point where it has absorbed a volume of solution equal to at least about 10% of its calculated pore volume; oxidizing the catalyst with a gaseous oxidant in the presence of the impregnating solution and activating the catalyst by reduction with hydrogen at elevated temperatures. Optionally, the catalyst is calcined after the oxidation step, and passivated after the activation step.
Composition comprising extracts of flos lonicerae, fructus forsythiae and radix scutellariae, uses and preparation thereof[September 7, 2004]  
The invention provides a new formulation of the composition comprising Flos Lonicerae Fructus Forsythiae and Radix Scutellariae. This invention also provides a method for identification with HPLC and the characteristic peaks of the compositions of said composition. The composition possesses antiviral effective, namely, inhibition of influenza virus, parainfluenza virus, herpes I virus and herpes II virus. The invention refers to a method for preparation and control of the active components of Flos Lonicerae Fructus Forsythiae and Radix Scutellariae for its biological activity. The invention also provides a unique raw materials and intermediate formulation.
Method and system for assay and removal of harmful toxins during processing of tobacco products [September 7, 2004]
A process and system for continuous assay and removal of toxins from tobacco. Products such as tobacco contaminated with mycotoxins, particularly aflatoxins, and benzpyrene and its precursors, are subjected to treatment, generally in a solvent medium, to decontaminate the tobacco of the toxin. Continuous monitoring of all harmful toxins eluted from the cleaning solvent is performed by immunoantibody ultraviolet fluorescence, for example. A quality-control process ensures removal of harmful toxins from tobacco before further processing. Decontamination of extracted solvent streams and re-additives ensures safe reuse or disposal of the solvents and re-additives
Delivery of antidepressants through an inhalation route [August 31, 2004]
The present invention relates to the delivery of antidepressants through an inhalation route. Specifically, it relates to aerosols containing an antidepressant that are used in inhalation therapy. In a composition aspect of the present invention, the aerosol comprises particles comprising at least 5 percent by weight of an antidepressant. In a method aspect of the present invention, an antidepressant is delivered to a mammal through an inhalation route. The method comprises: a) heating a composition, wherein the composition comprises at least 5 percent by weight of an antidepressant to form a vapor; and, b) allowing the vapor to cool, thereby forming a condensation aerosol comprising particles, which is inhaled by the mammal. In a kit aspect of the present invention, a kit for delivering an antidepressant through an inhalation route to a mammal is provided which comprises: a) a composition comprising at least 5 percent by weight of an antidepressant; and, b) a device that forms an antidepressant containing aerosol from the composition, for inhalation by the mammal.
Sample preconcentration tubes with sol-gel surface coatings and/or sol-gel monolithic beds  [August 31, 2004]
A method of preconcentrating trace analytes is accomplished by extracting polar and non-polar analytes through a sol-gel coating. The sol-gel coating is either disposed on the inner surface of a capillary tube or disposed within the tube as a monolithic bed.
In situ thermal processing of a relatively impermeable formation to increase permeability of the formation [August 31, 2004]
A method for treating a relatively low permeability formation containing heavy hydrocarbons in situ may include providing heat from one or more heat sources to a portion of the formation. The heat may be allowed to transfer from the heat sources to a selected section of the formation. The transferred heat may pyrolyze at least some hydrocarbons within the selected section. A mixture of hydrocarbons may be produced from the selected section. In some embodiments, the permeability of a portion of the formation may be increased relative to an initial permeability of the portion.
In situ thermal processing of a relatively impermeable formation to increase permeability of the formation [August 31, 2004]
A method for treating a relatively low permeability formation containing heavy hydrocarbons in situ may include providing heat from one or more heat sources to a portion of the formation. The heat may be allowed to transfer from the heat sources to a selected section of the formation. The transferred heat may pyrolyze at least some hydrocarbons within the selected section. A mixture of hydrocarbons may be produced from the selected section. In some embodiments, the permeability of a portion of the formation may be increased relative to an initial permeability of the portion.
Low dielectric constant shallow trench isolation [August 24, 2004]
Techniques of shallow trench isolation and devices produced therefrom. The techniques of shallow trench isolation utilize foamed polymers, cured aerogels or air gaps as the insulation medium. Such techniques facilitate lower dielectric constants than the standard silicon dioxide due to the cells of gaseous components inherent in foamed polymers, cured aerogels or air gaps. Lower dielectric constants reduce capacitive coupling concerns and thus permit higher device density in an integrated circuit device.
Quantitative organic vapor-particle sampler [August 24, 2004]
The present invention concerns a quantitative organic vapor-particle sampler which can efficiently sample both semi-volatile organic gases and particulate components through the use of a unique sorbent resin coating and process. The sampler of the present invention comprises in its broadest aspect a tubular device having an inlet at one end through which organic vapor/particles are introduced, an outlet at the other end through which gases exit, at least one annular denuder interposed there between which is coated on the inside surface of the annulus with a specially prepared resin absorbent, which selectively absorbs organic vapors contained in the gases introduced into the inlet, and a filter which traps and collects particles. The invention further concerns a semi-volatile organic reversible gas sorbent for use in an integrated diffusion vapor-particle sampler comprising macroreticular resin agglomerates of randomly packed microspheres with the continuous porous structure of particles ranging in size between 0.05-10 .mu.m.
Integrated circuit trenched features and method of producing same[August 24, 2004]
A metal processing method is provided for growing a polycrystalline film by preferably chemical vapor deposition (CVD) from a suitable precursor gas or gases on a substrate which has been coated with seeds, preferably of nanocrystal size, of the metal material. The nanocrystal seeds serve as a template for the structure of the final polycrystalline film. The density of the seeds and the thickness of the grown polycrystalline film determine the grain size of the polycrystalline film at the surface of said film. CVD onto the seeds to produce the polycrystalline film avoids the recrystallization step generally necessary for the formation of a polycrystalline film, and thus allows for the growth of polycrystalline films at reduced temperatures.
Low dielectric constant shallow trench isolation[August 24, 2004]
Techniques of shallow trench isolation and devices produced therefrom are provided. The techniques of shallow trench isolation utilize foamed polymers, cured aerogels or air gaps as the insulation medium. Such techniques facilitate lower dielectric constants than the standard silicon dioxide due to the cells of gaseous components inherent in foamed polymers, cured aerogels or air gaps. Lower dielectric constants reduce capacitive coupling concerns and thus permit higher device density in an integrated circuit device.
Post-development treatment of patterned photoresist to promote cross-linking of polymer chains [August 24, 2004]
A method for creating semiconductor devices is provided. A photoresist layer is provided on a wafer. The photoresist layer is patterned. Polymers in the patterned photoresist layer are chemically cross-linked by exposure to at least one reactive chemical. The pattern in the photoresist layer is transferred to the wafer. A reaction chamber for processing a wafer with a patterned layer of photoresist material, wherein the photoresist material was patterned by exposing the photoresist material using light of a wavelength less than 248 nm is provided. A chamber is provided with a central cavity. A wafer support for supporting the wafer in the central cavity is provided. A cross-linking reactive chemical source in fluid contact with the chamber and which provides a reactive chemical which causes cross-linking of the photoresist is provided.
Electrostatic deposition of particles generated from rapid expansion of supercritical fluid solutions[August 24, 2004]
A method for depositing a substance on a substrate that involves forming a supercritical fluid solution of at least one supercritical fluid solvent and at least one solute, discharging the supercritical fluid solution through an orifice under conditions sufficient to form solid particles of the solute that are substantially free of the supercritical fluid solvent, and electrostatically depositing the solid solute particles onto the substrate. The solid solute particles may be charged to a first electric potential and then deposited onto the substrate to form a film. The solute particles may have a mean particle size of less than 1 micron.
Delivery of antiemetics through an inhalation route [August 24, 2004]
The present invention relates to the delivery of antiemetics through an inhalation route. Specifically, it relates to aerosols containing antiemetics that are used in inhalation therapy. In a composition aspect of the present invention, the aerosol comprises particles comprising at least 5 percent by weight of an antiemetic. In a method aspect of the present invention, an antiemetic is delivered to a mammal through an inhalation route. The method comprises: a) heating a composition, wherein the composition comprises at least 5 percent by weight of an antiemetic, to form a vapor; and, b) allowing the vapor to cool, thereby forming a condensation aerosol comprising particles, which is inhaled by the mammal. In a kit aspect of the present invention, a kit for delivering an antiemetic through an inhalation route to a mammal is provided which comprises: a) a composition comprising at least 5 percent by weight of an antiemetic; and, b) a device that forms an antiemetic aerosol from the composition, for inhalation by the mammal.
Delivery of stimulants through an inhalation route [August 24, 2004]
The present invention relates to the delivery of stimulants through an inhalation route. Specifically, it relates to aerosols containing ephedrine or fenfluramine that are used in inhalation therapy. In a composition aspect of the present invention, the aerosol comprises particles comprising at least 5 percent by weight of ephedrine or fenfluramine. In a method aspect of the present invention, one of ephedrine or fenfluramine is delivered to a mammal through an inhalation route. The method comprises: a) heating a composition, wherein the composition comprises at least 5 percent by weight of ephedrine or fenfluramine, to form a vapor; and, b) allowing the vapor to cool, thereby forming a condensation aerosol comprising particles, which is inhaled by the mammal. In a kit aspect of the present invention, a kit for delivering ephedrine or fenfluramine through an inhalation route to a mammal is provided which comprises: a) a composition comprising at least 5 percent by weight of ephedrine or fenfluramine; and, b) a device that forms an ephedrine or fenfluramine containing aerosol from the composition, for inhalation by the mammal.
System for producing patterned deposition from compressed fluid in a partially opened deposition chamber  [August 24, 2004]
A system (10) produces patterned deposition on a substrate (14) from supercritical fluids. A delivery system (12) cooperates with a partial enclosure environment (30, 100, 200) retaining a movable substrate (14) for receiving precipitated functional material (44) along a fluid delivery path (13) from the delivery system (12). A shadow mask (22) is arranged in close proximity to the movable substrate (14) for forming the patterned deposition on the movable substrate (14)
.Flexural plate wave systems [August 17, 2004]
An exemplary system and me bstractthod for providing an acoustic plate wave apparatus is disclosed as comprising inter alia: a monocrystalline silicon substrate (200); an amorphous oxide material (220); a monocrystalline perovskite oxide material (230); a monocrystalline piezoelectric material (240); and a flexural plate wave component (250, 270) having an input interdigitated transducer (270), an output interdigitated transducer (250) and an optional support layer (260). Deposition or removal of material on or from an absorptive thin film sensor surface (210), or changes in the mechanical properties of the thin film (210) in contact with various chemical species, or changes in the electrical characteristics of a solvent solution exposed to the thin film (210) generally operate to produce measurable perturbations in the vector quantities (e.g., velocity, etc.) and scalar quantities (e.g., attenuation, etc.) of the acoustic plate modes.
Heat, moisture, and chemical resistant polyimide compositions and methods for making and using them  [August 17, 2004]
Polyimides having a desired combination of high thermo-oxidative stability, low moisture absorption and excellent chemical and corrosion resistance are prepared by reacting a mixture of compounds including (a) 3,3',4,4'-benzophenonetetracarboxylic dianhydride (BTDA), (b) 3,4'-oxydianiline (3,4'-ODA), and (c) 5-norbornene-2,3-dicarboxylic anhydride (NA) in a high boiling, aprotic solvent to give 5 to 35% by weight of polyamic acid solution. The ratio of (a), (b), and (c) is selected to afford a family of polyimides having different molecular weights and properties. The mixture first forms a polyamic acid precursor. Upon heating at or above 300.degree. C., the polyamic acids form polyimides, which are particularly suitable for use as a high temperature coating, adhesive, thin film, or composite matrix resin.
Catalyst enhancement  [August 17, 2004]
A process for enhancing metal catalysts for carbon monoxide hydrogenation comprising reducing the catalyst so that at least a portion is in the metallic state, impregnating under a non-oxidative atmosphere with a solution of a salt of at least one metal, optionally in combination with at least one of an ammonium salt, an alkyl ammonium salt, a weak organic acid and ammonia, oxidizing with a gaseous oxidant in the presence of the impregnating solution, and reducing to form an active catalyst. Used catalysts enhanced by the process are initially treated to decrease their hydrocarbon content. The treatment may be carried out in a single reactor, or by carrying out up to all steps after catalyst may be withdrawn from a reactor and returned to at least one reactor, both preferably during operations. Up to all steps may be effected in a subsequent reactor, or in specialized apparatus.
Method of forming buried wiring  [August 17, 2004]
A method of forming a buried wiring comprising the steps of: (A) forming a wiring and a first insulating layer filled between the wirings on a substratum, (B) immersing the first insulating layer in a fluid which can dissolve the first insulating layer, to dissolve the first insulating layer into the fluid, (C) substituting, for the fluid, a raw material solution containing a raw material for forming a second insulating layer, without bringing the wiring into contact with a gas, and (D) filling a second insulating layer formed by gelation in the raw material solution at least between the wirings, and then, drying off the raw material solution, thereby to form the second insulating layer at least between the wirings.
Process for microencapsulation of water soluble substances [August 17, 2004]
The present invention relates to a process for the preparation of microparticles, with an extremely high encapsulation rate, comprising a water-soluble substance in a biodegradable polymer, said water-soluble substance and said biodegradable polymer being first incorporated in an organic liquid phase comprising at least one organic non-water miscible solvent. The organic phase is poured into an aqueous liquid phase having a volume which is sufficient to dissolve said organic solvent, said aqueous phase containing a surfactant, the resulting organic-aqueous phase being homogenised in order to perform in one single step the microparticle formation and the organic solvent removal. The thus obtained microparticles show surprisingly good agent retention qualities.
Method of novel noncatalytic organic synthesis[August 10, 2004]
The invention provides a method of increasing the reaction rate of an organic synthesis reaction by utilizing supply of OH.sup.- from water in the absence of catalyst without adding a basic catalyst in supercritical water or subcritical water of at least 350 .degree. C., and a method of generating alcohol and carboxylic acid with high reaction rate by performing a Cannizzaro reaction in the absence of catalyst without adding a basic catalyst in supercritical water, and to a method of synthesis of alcohol and carboxylic acid from an aldehyde in the absence of catalyst without adding a basic catalyst near the critical point (375 to 380 .degree. C., 22.5 to 25 MPa) of supercritical water.
Propylene polymers incorporating polyethylene macromers[August 10, 2004]
A polyolefin product is provided which comprises a branched olefin copolymer having an syndiotactic polypropylene backbone, polyethylene branches and, optionally, one or more comonomers. The total comonomer content of the branched olefin copolymer is from 0 to 20 mole percent. Also, the mass ratio of the syndiotactic polypropylene to the polyethylene ranges from 99.9:0.1 to 50:50. Additionally, a process is provided for preparing a branched olefin copolymer which comprises: a) copolymerizing ethylene, optionally with one or more copolymerizable monomers, in a polymerization reaction under conditions sufficient to form copolymer having greater than 40% chain end-group unsaturation; b) copolymerizing the product of a) with propylene and, optionally, one or more copolymerizable monomers, in a polymerization reactor under suitable polypropylene polymerization conditions using a chiral, stereorigid transition metal catalyst capable of producing syndiotactic polypropylene; and c) recovering a branched olefin copolymer.
Method for protection of stone with substantially amorphous fluoropolymers [August 10, 2004] This invention concerns the application of substantially amorphous fluoropolymer compositions to stone so as to protect the stone from the deleterious effects of water and pollution.
Supercritical fluid extraction [August 10, 2004]
A method is provided for fabricating an abrasive article having porosity. The method includes blending a mixture of abrasive grain, bond material, and pore inducer, in which the pore inducer is soluble in a supercritical fluid, and the abrasive grain and bond material are substantially insoluble in the supercritical fluid. The mixture is pressed into an abrasive laden composite and exposed to the supercritical fluid for a period of time suitable to dissolve at least a portion of the pore inducer. The composite is thermally processed.
Method for making electro-fluidic connections in microfluidic devices [August 10, 2004]
A method for forming electro-fluidic interconnections in microfluidic devices comprises forming an electrical connection between matching bond pads on a die containing an active electrical element and a microfluidic substrate and forming a fluidic seal ring that circumscribes the active electrical element and a fluidic feedthrough. Preferably, the electrical connection and the seal ring are formed in a single bonding step. The simple method is particularly useful for chemical microanalytical systems wherein a plurality of microanalytical components, such as a chemical preconcentrator, a gas chromatography column, and a surface acoustic wave detector, are fluidically interconnected on a hybrid microfluidic substrate having electrical connection to external support electronics.
Polymer compositions containing bioactive agents and methods for their use [August 3, 2004]
Embodiments of the invention provide polymer coated implantable medical devices having a bioactive material posited in or on at least a portion of the coating layer, wherein the coating layer provides for the controlled release of the bioactive material from the coating layer. Preferably, the medical device is an intravascular stent.
Process for preparing ocular lens with urethane compound and process for preparing urethane compound for medical instruments [August 3, 2004]
 A process for preparing an ocular lens with a urethane compound comprising the steps of a) preparing a urethane compound by reacting at least one hydroxyl compound and at least one isocyanate compound in the presence of an organic iron compound, b) removing the organic iron compound from the urethane compound obtained in the step a) c) mixing the urethane compound obtained in the step b) with at least one compound selected from the group consisting of another copolymerizable compound, a crosslinking agent, a UV absorbent, a dye, a polymerization initiator, a photosensitizer, and an organic solvent to obtain a mixture, and d) curing the mixture obtained in the step c) to prepare a lens.
Process for preparing urethane compound for medical instruments [August 3, 2004]
 A process for preparing an urethane compound for medical instruments, characterized by reacting a hydroxyl compound (A) with an isocyanate compound (B) in the absence of a catalyst or in the presence of a reaction catalyst other than an organic tin compound to give an urethane compound (I). According to the process, the urethane compound showing high safety can be easily prepared, in particular, while molecular weight of the compound is controlled.
Low dielectric constant shallow trench isolation [August 3, 2004]
 Techniques of shallow trench isolation and devices produced therefrom are provided. The techniques of shallow trench isolation utilize foamed polymers, cured aerogels or air gaps as the insulation medium. Such techniques facilitate lower dielectric constants than the standard silicon dioxide due to the cells of gaseous components inherent in foamed polymers, cured aerogels or air gaps. Lower dielectric constants reduce capacitive coupling concerns and thus permit higher device density in an integrated circuit device.
Supercritical compositions for removal of organic material and methods of using same  [August 3, 2004]
A method for removing organic material in the fabrication of structures includes providing a substrate assembly having an exposed organic material and removing at least a portion of the exposed organic material using a composition including sulfur trioxide (SO.sub.3) in a supercritical state. For example, the exposed organic material may be selected from the group of resist material, photoresist residue, UV-hardened resist, X-ray hardened resist, carbon-fluorine containing polymers, plasma etch residues, and organic impurities from other processes. Further, organic material removal compositions for performing such methods are provided.
Copper deposition using copper formate complexes [August 3, 2004]
 The present invention relates to novel copper formate complexes and the deposition of metallic copper on substrates or in or on porous solids using these novel copper complexes.
In situ production of synthesis gas from a coal formation through a heat source wellbore [August 3, 2004]
 A coal formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. Hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a synthesis gas production temperature. A synthesis gas producing fluid may be introduced into the formation to generate synthesis gas. Production wells may be operated at selected temperatures to obtain a desired synthesis gas composition.
In situ thermal processing of a hydrocarbon containing formation using conductor in conduit heat sources [August 3, 2004]
 A hydrocarbon containing formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. Hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation from heat sources to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a desired temperature. Some of the heat sources may be conductors placed within conduits. The conductors may be resistively heated so that the conductors radiantly heat the conduits. The conduits may transfer heat to the formation.
Isolation of natural products from birch bark[July 27, 2004]
The invention provides methods for isolating 9,10-epoxy-18-hydroxyoctadecanoic acid; 9,10,18-trihydroxyoctadecanoic acid; polyphenolic polymers, fatty acids; and mixtures thereof from birch bark.
Polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane polyimide composites [July 27, 2004]
Performance additives in high performance polymers using polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (POSS) and polyhedral oligomeric silicates (POS) as nanoscopic reinforcements, porosity control agents, thermal and oxidative stability aids to improve the properties of the polymers. Microencapsulation using ultrasonic atomizers[July 27, 2004]
A method for generating a plurality of drug-containing microcapsules employs one or more atomizers to form the microcapsules by the phenomenon of solvent exchange. A plurality of microdroplets of an aqueous solution is contacted with a plurality of microdroplets containing a polymer dissolved in a hydrophilic solvent under conditions whereby the polymer solution envelops the aqueous microdroplet. Exchange of solvent molecules between the aqueous core and its polymer-containing shell deposits the polymer as a membrane around the aqueous core. A preferred atomizer is a coaxial ultrasonic atomizer. Microcapsules can be generated in air as well as when submersed in a collection bath. Desired properties of the microcapsules, e.g., controlled release, can be achieved by providing protective excipients within the aqueous core, providing a hydrophilic polymer capable of undergoing a sol-to-gel transition within the aqueous core, optimizing selection of the polymer solvent, adjusting relative flow rates, and the like.
Method for protection of stone with substantially amorphous fluoropolymers [July 27, 2004]
This invention concerns the application of substantially amorphous fluoropolymer compositions to stone so as to protect the stone from the deleterious effects of water and pollution.
Polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane polyimide composites[July 27, 2004]  Performance additives in high performance polymers using polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (POSS) and polyhedral oligomeric silicates (POS) as nanoscopic reinforcements, porosity control agents, thermal and oxidative stability aids to improve the properties of the polymers.
Method and apparatus for optical acoustic molding [July 27, 2004]
Acoustic energy is used to control the shape of a particle or particle cluster for the purpose of inducing a phase and hence density change as a result of exposure to radiation. This process, known as optical acoustic molding, employs an acoustic transducer and reflector positioned around a particle or particle cluster to generate standing waves. These standing waves apply forces to points on the particle's surface. The locus of such points represents a three-dimensional pressure function, which will ultimately cause the particle or particle cluster to acquire a predefined shape. Once the particle or particle cluster has attained the desired shape or density, a radiation source induces rapid melting or solidification (i.e. rapid change in density) of the particles.
Production of aromatic carboxylic acids [July 20, 2004]
A process for the production of an aromatic carboxylic acid comprising contacting in the presence of a catalyst, within a continuous flow reactor, one or more precursors of the aromatic carboxylic acid with an oxidant, such contact being effected with said precursor(s) and the oxidant in an aqueous solvent comprising water under supercritical conditions or near supercritical conditions close to the supercritical point such that said one or more precursors, oxidant and aqueous solvent constitute a substantially single homogeneous phase in the reaction zone, wherein the contact of at least part of said precursor with said oxidant is contemporaneous with contact of said catalyst with at least part of said oxidant.
Methods of forming polymeric structures using carbon dioxide and polymeric structures formed therapy [July 20, 2004]
 Methods of forming a polymeric structure having a plurality of cells therein that include contacting a polymeric material that includes a first phase and a second phase with a composition comprising carbon dioxide to form the polymeric structure having a plurality of cells therein are described. Polymeric materials and microelectronic devices formed by such methods are also described.
CO2-processes photoresists, polymers, and photoactive compounds for microlithography [July 20, 2004]
 A process of forming a resist image in a microelectronic substrate comprises the steps of contacting the substrate with a composition first comprising carbon dioxide and a component selected from the group consisting of at least one polymeric precursor, at least one monomer, at least one polymeric material, and mixtures thereof to deposit the component on the substrate and form a coating thereon; then imagewise exposing the coating to radiation such that exposed and unexposed coating portions are formed; then subjecting the coating to a second composition comprising carbon dioxide having such that either one of the exposed or the unexposed coating portions are removed from the substrate and the other coating portion is developed and remains on the coating to form an image thereon.
Supercritical solutions for cleaning photoresist and post-etch residue from low-k materials [July 20, 2004]Disclosed formulations of supercritical solutions are useful in wafer cleaning processes. Supercritical solutions of the invention may be categorized by their chemistry, for example, basic, acidic, oxidative, and fluoride chemistries are used. Such solutions may include supercritical carbon dioxide and at least one reagent dissolved therein to facilitate removal of waste material from wafers, particularly for removing photoresist and post-etch residues from low-k materials. This reagent may include an ammonium carbonate or bicarbonate, and combinations of such reagents. The solution may include one or more co-solvents, chelating agents, surfactants, and anti-corrosion agents as well.In situ thermal processing of a coal formation with carbon dioxide sequestration [July 20, 2004]
A coal formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. Hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a pyrolysis temperature. The portion may be allowed or forced to cool after mixture production is ended. Carbon dioxide may be stored within the portion.
Method and apparatus for cleaning substrates using liquid carbon dioxide [July 20, 2004]
 Methods for cleaning a microelectronic substrate in a cluster tool are described that include placing the substrate in a pressure chamber of a module in a cluster tool; pressurizing the pressure chamber; introducing liquid CO.sub.2 into the pressure chamber; cleaning the substrate in the pressure chamber; removing the liquid CO.sub.2 from the pressure chamber, depressurizing the pressure chamber, and removing the substrate from the pressure chamber. Apparatus for processing a microelectronic substrate are also disclosed that that include a transfer module, a first processing module that employs liquid carbon dioxide as a cleaning fluid coupled to the transfer module, a second processing module coupled to the transfer module, and a transfer mechanism coupled to the transfer module. The transfer mechanism is configured to move the substrate between the first processing module and the second processing module. Polyoxypropylene/polyoxyethylene copolymers with improved biological activity  [July 20, 2004]
The present invention comprises novel preparations of polyoxypropylene/polyoxyethylene copolymers which retain the therapeutic activity of the commercial preparations, but are substantially free from the undesirable effects which are inherent in the prior art preparations. Because the preparations of polyoxypropylene/polyoxyethylene copolymers which comprise the present invention are a less polydisperse population of molecules than the prior art polyoxypropylene/polyoxyethylene copolymers, the biological activity of the copolymers is better defined and more predictable.
Polymeric lubricants with improved stability and thin film recording media comprising same  [July 13, 2004]
A data/information storage and retrieval medium, comprising: (a) a substrate including a layer stack thereon, the layer stack including a surface and at least one magnetic or magneto-optical ("MO") recording layer; and (b) a thin film or layer of a lubricant formed on the surface of the layer stack, comprised of a derivatized perfluoropolyether compound comprising a generally linear perfluoropolyethcr chain and at least one Hindered Amine Light Stabilizer ("HALS") moiety at at least one end of the chain.
Extracts of celery seed for the prevention and treatment of pain, inflammation and gastrointestinal irritation [July 13, 2004]
Biologically active extracts of celery seed are produced by controlled ethanolic extraction, distillation and drying, and further processing by supercritical fluid extractions (SFE), and may be further fractionated by column fractionation, distillation, LiAlH reduction and the like. These extracts possess activity for the treatment and prevention of acute and chronic pain, inflammation and gastrointestinal irritation.
Particulate insulin-containing products and method of manufacture [July 13, 2004]
Provided is a compressed anti-solvent technique for manufacture of insulin-containing powders for pulmonary delivery. The insulin is processed in a cosolvent system including two or more mutually soluble organic solvents. Also provided are powders manufacturable by the manufacture method, including powders of substantially pure insulin and powders including a biocompatible polymer for pulmonary sustained insulin release applications. Also provided are packaged products including insulin-containing powder in a container that is receivable by and operable with a dry powder inhaler to produce an aerosol including dispersed insulin-containing particles when the inhaler is actuated.
Process for the fractionation of polymers [July 13, 2004]
A process for the purification or fractionation of aqueous soluble polymers using an aqueous two-phase system is described. The concentrations of the polymer to be fractionated and of an aqueous soluble salt, and the temperature of the aqueous fractionation medium are adjusted so that two phases form, the lower molecular weight polymer molecules partition into the high salt concentration phase, and the higher molecular weight polymer molecules partition into the low salt concentration phase. The resulting high molecular weight polymers are characterized by a higher average molecular weight and a narrower molecular weight distribution and decreased unsaturation than the unfractionated polymers. After being subjected to the fractionation process, polyol polymers that form hydrogels in aqueous solution exhibited higher viscosities and a liquid to gel transition over a narrower temperature range than the unfractionated polyol polymers.
Preparation and metering of components mixed with Co2 [July 13, 2004]
A method is described for preparing mixtures of salts and/or other substances in general, including calcium and magnesium salts with carbon dioxide in pressurized containers, for the purpose of producing systems for the delivery of said mixtures in soluble form and at a predetermined and constant saline concentration, for a wide variety of applications. The mixtures containing the substances are prepared in a stirred reactor under a pressure of carbon dioxide, and from there are brought into use after they have been transferred into containers that are suitable for maintaining the internal pressure generated by the carbon dioxide in the form of vapor, in the form of a liquid/vapor mixture or under supercritical conditions.
 In situ thermal processing of a coal formation to produce hydrocarbon fluids and synthesis gas [July 13, 2004]
A coal formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. A mixture of hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a pyrolysis temperature. After pyrolysis, the portion may be heated to a synthesis gas production temperature. A synthesis gas producing fluid may be introduced into the portion to generate synthesis gas. Synthesis gas may be produced from the formation in a batch manner or in a substantially continuous manner.Brightness enhancement film [July 6, 2004]
 An optical film is provided which comprises a disperse phase of polymeric particles disposed within a continuous birefringent matrix in combination with light directing materials to enable control of light emitted from a lighting fixture or display. The film is oriented, typically by stretching, in one or more directions. The size and shape of the disperse phase particles, the volume fraction of the disperse phase, the film thickness, and the amount of orientation are chosen to attain a desired degree of diffuse reflection and total transmission of electromagnetic radiation of a desired wavelength in the resulting film, and the light directing materials are chosen to control the direction of polarized light reflected from or transmitted by the optical film.
Polymer nanocomposite foams [July 6, 2004]
 Nano-sized particles such as nano-clays can be mixed with polymers through either melt compounding or in-situ polymerization. By modifying the particle surface with various surfactants and controlling processing conditions, we are able to achieve either intercalated (partial dispersion) or exfoliated (full dispersion) nano-clay distribution in polymers with the clay content up to 35% by weight. When a blowing agent is injected into the nanocomposite in an extruder (a continuous mixer) or a batch mixer, polymeric foam can be produced. Supercritical carbon dioxide, an environmentally friendly, low-cost, non-flammable, chemically benign gas is used as the blowing agent. This process forms a microcellular foam with very high cell density (>10.sup.9 cells/cc) and small cell size (<5 microns) can be achieved by controlling the CO.sub.2 content, melt and die temperature, and pressure drop rate.
Solid phase microextraction fiber structure and method of making [July 6, 2004]
 A solid phase microextraction (SPME) fiber including a fiber and a deactivated surface-bonded sol-gel coating on a portion of the fiber to form a solid phase microextraction coating on the portion of the fiber, wherein the solid-phase microextraction coating is capable of preconcentrating trace organic compounds in various matrices. A sol-gel method of preparing SPME fibers with chemically bonded stationary phase coatings that serve as solvent-free extraction media including the step of chemically bonding the sol-gel stationary phase with the SPME fiber surface during its creation through sol-gel reactions.
Delivery of rizatriptan and zolmitriptan through an inhalation route [July 6, 2004]
The present invention relates to the delivery of rizatriptan or zolmitriptan through an inhalation route. Specifically, it relates to aerosols containing rizatriptan or zolmitriptan that are used in inhalation therapy. In a composition aspect of the present invention, the aerosol comprises particles comprising at least 5 percent by weight of rizatriptan or zolmitriptan. In a method aspect of the present invention, either rizatriptan or zolmitriptan is delivered to a mammal through an inhalation route. The method comprises: a) heating a composition, wherein the composition comprises at least 5 percent by weight of rizatriptan or zolmitriptan, to form a vapor; and, b) allowing the vapor to cool, thereby forming a condensation aerosol comprising particles, which is inhaled by the mammal. In a kit aspect of the present invention, a kit for delivering rizatriptan or zolmitriptan through an inhalation route to a mammal is provided which comprises: a) a composition comprising at least 5 percent by weight of rizatriptan or zolmitriptan; and, b) a device that forms a rizatriptan or zolmitriptan containing aerosol from the composition, for inhalation by the mammal.
Process for forming microporous metal parts [July 6, 2004]
 A metal injection-molding feedstock is heated and plasticized. Supercritical carbon dioxide is injected into the feedstock to form micropores when the pressure is reduced and a parts mold is filled. The micropores are retained when the green parts are debindered and sintered.
In situ thermal processing of a hydrocarbon containing formation using a relatively slow heating rate [July 6, 2004]
A hydrocarbon containing formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. A mixture of hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a pyrolysis temperature. Heat input into the formation may be controlled to raise the temperature of portion at a selected rate.
Low dielectric constant shallow trench isolation[June 29, 2004]
Techniques of shallow trench isolation and devices produced therefrom. The techniques of shallow trench isolation utilize foamed polymers, cured aerogels or air gaps as the insulation medium. Such techniques facilitate lower dielectric constants than the standard silicon dioxide due to the cells of gaseous components inherent in foamed polymers, cured aerogels or air gaps. Lower dielectric constants reduce capacitive coupling concerns and thus permit higher device density in an integrated circuit device.
Electrostatic deposition of particles generated from rapid expansion of supercritical fluid solutions [June 29, 2004]
A method for depositing a substance on a substrate that involves forming a supercritical fluid solution of at least one supercritical fluid solvent and at least one solute, discharging the supercritical fluid solution through an orifice under conditions sufficient to form solid particles of the solute that are substantially free of the supercritical fluid solvent, and electrostatically depositing the solid solute particles onto the substrate. The solid solute particles may be charged to a first electric potential and then deposited onto the substrate to form a film. The solute particles may have a mean particle size of less than 1 micron.
Preparation of drug particles using evaporation precipitation into aqueous solutions [June 29, 2004]
A method for preparing poorly water soluble drug particles is disclosed. The method comprises dissolving a drug in at least one organic solvent to form a drug/organic mixture, spraying the drug/organic mixture into an aqueous solution, and concurrently evaporating the organic solvent in the presence of the aqueous solution to form an aqueous dispersion of the drug particles. The resulting drug particles are in the nanometer to micrometer size range and show enhanced dissolution rates and reduced crystallinity when compared to the unprocessed drug.
Cleaning system utilizing an organic cleaning solvent and a pressurized fluid solvent [June 29, 2004]
A cleaning system that utilizes an organic cleaning solvent and pressurized fluid solvent is disclosed. The system has no conventional evaporative hot air drying cycle. Instead, the system utilizes the solubility of the organic solvent in pressurized fluid solvent as well as the physical properties of pressurized fluid solvent. After an organic solvent cleaning cycle, the solvent is extracted from the textiles at high speed in a rotating drum in the same way conventional solvents are extracted from textiles in conventional evaporative hot air dry cleaning machines. Instead of proceeding to a conventional drying cycle, the extracted textiles are then immersed in pressurized fluid solvent to extract the residual organic solvent from the textiles. This is possible because the organic solvent is soluble in pressurized fluid solvent. After the textiles are immersed in pressurized fluid solvent, pressurized fluid solvent is pumped from the drum. Finally, the drum is de-pressurized to atmospheric pressure to evaporate any remaining pressurized fluid solvent, yielding clean, solvent free textiles. The organic solvent is preferably selected from terpenes, halohydrocarbons, certain glycol ethers, polyols, ethers, esters of glycol ethers, esters of fatty acids and other long chain carboxylic acids, fatty alcohols and other long-chain alcohols, short-chain alcohols, polar aprotic solvents, siloxanes, hydrofluoroethers, dibasic esters, and aliphatic hydrocarbons solvents or similar solvents or mixtures of such solvents and the pressurized fluid solvent is preferably densified carbon dioxide.
System and method of preparing a reinforced polymer by supercritical fluid treatment [June 22, 2004]
The present invention involves a method of preparing a reinforced polymer providing improved mechanical properties. The method includes providing particles of the layered silicate and a supercritical fluid. The method further includes mixing the layered silicate with a polymer to form a treatable silicate-polymer mixture and contacting the treatable mixture with the supercritical fluid to exfoliate the silicate particles so that the particles disperse within the polymer. The method further includes depressurizing the contacted mixture to exfoliate the layered silicate so that the layers are substantially dispersed within the polymer to define a reinforced polymer. Fischer-tropsch catalyst enhancement [June 22, 2004]
There is provided a process for hydrocarbon synthesis wherein a supported metal catalyst for hydrogenating carbon monoxide to form a mixture of hydrocarbons is regenerated by decreasing its hydrocarbon content, impregnating under a non-oxidative atmosphere with a solution of at least one member selected from the group consisting of ammonium salts, alkyl ammonium salts and weak organic acids, optionally including ammonia, oxidizing with a gaseous oxidant in the presence of the impregnating solution, activating the catalyst by reduction with hydrogen at elevated temperatures and reusing the catalyst. The treatment may be carried out in a single reactor, or by carrying out up to all steps after catalyst has been withdrawn therefrom and returned to at least one reactor. Up to all steps subsequent to decreasing the hydrocarbon content may be effected in a subsequent reactor, or in specialized apparatus.
Supported catalyst regeneration [June 22, 2004]
There is provided a process for renewing the activity of used, supported metal catalysts for the hydrogenation of carbon monoxide to form a mixture of hydrocarbons comprising decreasing the hydrocarbon content of the catalyst, impregnating said catalyst under an non-oxidative atmosphere with a solution at least one weak organic acid, preferably a mono- or di-carboxylic acid, to the point where it has absorbed a volume of said solution equal to at least about 10% of its calculated pore volume, oxidizing the catalyst with a gaseous oxidant in the presence of the impregnating solution and activating the catalyst by reduction with hydrogen at elevated temperatures. Optionally, the catalyst is calcined after the oxidation step, and passivated after the activation step. A preferred means of decreasing the hydrocarbon content of the catalyst is contacting it with a hydrogen-containing gas at elevated temperatures.
Self-assembled monolayer and method of making [June 22, 2004]
According to the present invention, the previously known functional material having a self-assembled monolayer on a substrate has a plurality of assembly molecules each with an assembly atom with a plurality of bonding sites (four sites when silicon is the assembly molecule) wherein a bonding fraction (or fraction) of fully bonded assembly atoms (the plurality of bonding sites bonded to an oxygen atom) has a maximum when made by liquid solution deposition, for example a maximum of 40% when silicon is the assembly molecule, and maximum surface density of assembly molecules was 5 silanes per square nanometer. Note that bonding fraction and surface population are independent parameters. The method of the present invention is an improvement to the known method for making a siloxane layer on a substrate, wherein instead of a liquid phase solution chemistry, the improvement is a supercritical phase chemistry. The present invention has the advantages of greater fraction of oxygen bonds, greater surface density of assembly molecules and reduced time for reaction of about 5 minutes to about 24 hours.
Color fading/discoloration preventive agent [June 22, 2004]
Disclosed are a color fading/discoloration preventive agent containing as its active ingredient a coumarin analog represented by general formula (1) below, a glycoside of that analog, or a plant extract containing the coumarin analog or its glycoside: ##STR1## (wherein R.sup.1 represents a hydrogen atom, a hydroxyl group or a methoxy group, R.sup.2 represents a hydrogen atom or a hydroxyl group, and R.sup.1 and R.sup.2 are not both hydrogen atoms); and a color fading/discoloration preventive agent containing as its active ingredient a coumarin analog mixture obtained from the rind of citrus fruit, and particularly a coumarin analog mixture obtained from citrus cold press oil.
Apparatus and method of delivering a beam of a functional material to a receiver [June 22, 2004]
An apparatus and method of delivering a functional material is provided. The apparatus includes a pressurized source of fluid in a thermodynamically stable mixture with a functional material. A discharge device having an inlet and an outlet is connected to the pressurized source at the inlet. The discharge device is shaped to produce a collimated beam of functional material, where the fluid is in a gaseous state at a location before or beyond the outlet of the discharge device. A beam control device is positioned proximate to the outlet of the discharge device such that the collimated beam of functional material is controlled after the collimated beam of functional material moves through the outlet of the discharge device.
In situ thermal processing of a coal formation using heat sources positioned within open wellbores [June 22, 2004]
A coal formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. Hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a pyrolysis temperature. Heat sources may be positioned within open wellbores in the formation.
Process for producing a pressurized liquefied gas product by cooling and expansion of a gas stream in the supercritical state [June 22, 2004]
This invention is a method and apparatus for production of pressurized liquefied gas. First, a gas stream is cooled and expanded to liquefy the gas stream. The liquefied gas stream is then withdrawn as pressurized gas product and a portion is recycled through the heat exchanger to provide at least part of the cooling and is returned to the stream. Recycling the pressurized liquefied gas product helps keep the cooling and compression of the gas stream in the supercritcal region of the phase diagram. J-T valves in parallel with the expander permits running the system until the stream is in the supercritical region of its phase diagram and the hydraulic expander can operate. This process is suitable for natural gas streams containing methane to form a pressurized liquefied natural gas (PLNG) product.
Propylene polymers incorporating polyethylene macromers[June 15, 2004]
A polyolefin product is provided which comprises a branched olefin copolymer having an isotactic polypropylene backbone, polyethylene branches and, optionally, one or more comonomers. The total comonomer content of the branched olefin copolymer is from 0 to 20 mole percent. Also, the mass ratio of the isotactic polypropylene to the polyethylene ranges from 99.9:0.1 to 50:50. Additionally, a process is provided for preparing a branched olefin copolymer which comprises: a) copolymerizing ethylene, optionally with one or more copolymerizable monomers, in a polymerization reaction under conditions sufficient to form copolymer having greater than 40% chain end-group unsaturation; b) copolymerizing the product of a) with propylene and, optionally, one or more copolymerizable monomers, in a polymerization reactor under suitable polypropylene polymerization conditions using a chiral, stereorigid transition metal catalyst capable of producing isotactic polypropylene; and c) recovering a branched olefin copolymer.
Method and device for studying the effect of a supercritical fluid on the transition of a material from one condensed phase to the other and their application in the case of a polymer material [June 15, 2004]
The invention concerns the study of the effect of a supercritical fluid on the transitions of a material, which consists in varying continuously or by stages according to a predetermined programme, a first parameter value selected among the super-critical fluid pressure, the temperature of a cell containing the material sample and said sample volume, while maintaining a second of said parameters at a value selected, so as to induce the transition; and in recording the variation of the first parameter, that of the third parameter and the heat flow rate in the cell; in comparing said recordings with those obtained by replacing the supercritical fluid with a neutral fluid. The figure shows a diagram of the device for carrying out said study. The invention is in particular useful for studying a polymer material transitions.
Methods for producing films using supercritical fluid [June 15, 2004]
A method for forming a continuous film on a substrate surface that involves depositing particles onto a substrate surface and contacting the particle-deposited substrate surface with a supercritical fluid under conditions sufficient for forming a continuous film from the deposited particles. The particles may have a mean particle size of less 1 micron. The method may be performed by providing a pressure vessel that can contain a compressible fluid. A particle-deposited substrate is provided in the pressure vessel and the compressible fluid is maintained at a supercritical or sub-critical state sufficient for forming a film from the deposited particles. The T.sub.g of particles may be reduced by subjecting the particles to the methods detailed in the present disclosure. Method for producing arachidonic acid [June 15, 2004]
The present invention relates to a process for producing arachidonic acid. In one embodiment, Mortierella sect. schmuckeri microorganisms are cultured in fermentation medium, preferably containing a component of a complex nitrogen source. Further disclosed is a food product which includes Mortierella sect. schmuckeri microorganisms or lipid isolated from such microorganisms to enhance the arachidonic acid content of the food product.
Modulated release particles for lung delivery [June 15, 2004]
A polymeric construct is disclosed. The construct comprises a polysaccharide polymer having a selected medicament associated therewith. The medicament thus present is provided in a slow release form.
High-pressure treatment apparatus, feeding method thereto and protection method thereof [June 15, 2004]
A high-pressure treatment apparatus comprises a first solid reservoir, a second solid reservoir connected to the first solid reservoir through a first connecting pipe, a high-pressure reactor connected to the second solid reservoir through a second connecting pipe, means for feeding reaction medium into the high-pressure reactor, a first sealing unit and a second sealing unit intervened respectively in the first connecting pipe and second connecting pipe, a first fluid feed unit for feeding a first fluid between the first sealing unit and the second sealing unit, a second fluid feed unit for feeding a second fluid between the second sealing unit and the high-pressure reactor, and means for opening the second sealing unit at the time of shut-off of the first sealing unit and controlling the first fluid and the second fluid to form a pressure-gradient so that pressure between the first sealing unit and the second sealing unit and pressure between the second sealing unit and the high-pressure reactor decrease gradually toward the high-pressure reactor.
System for removing oil from foodstuffs using a membrane filter[June 15, 2004]
A process and system for extracting a solute from a solid material, such as oil from oil-bearing foodstuffs, utilize a substantially tubular membrane filter to separate a mass of the extracting medium and the foodstuffs into a miscella and foodstuffs of reduced oil content. In a batch or continuous process, after each extracting stage, the mass from the extraction vessel is conveyed to a membrane filter, which has pores along its cylindrical walls suitably sized to allow a miscella to pass as the permeate, while causing the foodstuffs of reduced oil content to be conveyed axially along the tubes and out of its ends as the retentate. In a continuous process, extractor cells, or stages, consisting of an extraction vessel, pump, and membrane filter, are used in sequential stages, preferably using a miscella from the subsequent stage as the extracting medium. In a batch process, miscella storage tanks may be used to store miscella from the final stage for use in the next batch. In either case, only miscella having the highest oil content, namely the miscella from the first stage, is conveyed to a separator for recovery of the oil. Of particular value is the use of this process or system in extracting oil from foodstuffs which are in the form of powders, have high oil content, or are sensitive to heat.
Separation system, components of a separation system and methods of making and using them[June 15, 2004]
Permeable polymeric monolithic materials are prepared in a column casing. In one embodiment, the permeable polymeric monolithic materials are polymerized while pressure is applied through a piston having a smooth piston head in contact with the polymerization mixture. The pressure eliminates wall effect and changes the structure in the column. Similarly, some columns that have a tendency to swell in the presence of aqueous solutions and pressurized while the solution is applied to prevent swelling and wall effect. This procedure also changes the structure in the column. The size of the separation effective openings can be controlled by the amount of the pressure and pores eliminated.
Apparatus for supercritical processing of multiple workpieces[June 15, 2004]
An apparatus for supercritical processing of multiple workpieces comprises a transfer m
     The first and second supercritical processing modules are coupled to the transfer module. The robot is preferably located with the transfer module. In operation, the robot transfers a first workpiece from the entrance of the transfer module to the first supercritical processing module. The robot then transfers a second workpiece from the entrance to the second supercritical processing module. After the workpieces have been processed, the robot returns the first and second workpieces to the entrance of the transfer module. Alternatively, the apparatus includes additional supercritical processing modules coupled to the transfer module.
Apparatus for supercritical processing of multiple workpieces[June 15, 2004]
An apparatus for supercritical processing of multiple workpieces comprises a transfer module, first and second supercritical processing modules, and a robot. The transfer module includes an entrance. The first and second supercritical processing modules are coupled to the transfer module. The robot is preferably located with the transfer module. In operation, the robot transfers a first workpiece from the entrance of the transfer module to the first supercritical processing module. The robot then transfers a second workpiece from the entrance to the second supercritical processing module. After the workpieces have been processed, the robot returns the first and second workpieces to the entrance of the transfer module. Alternatively, the apparatus includes additional supercritical processing modules coupled to the transfer module.
Spot cleaning of particles after inspection [June 8, 2004]
A method and cluster tool for selectively removing contaminating particles from a substrate surface using a laser. An inspection tool scans the substrate surface to detect and identify any defects on the substrate surface, and then suitable software analyzes the scanned data to determine characteristics of the defect including the type of defect, the number of defects, sizes of each defect and the planar x, y coordinates of each defect. This data is used to command a laser tool to remove only those defects identified as contaminants that are capable of being removed from the surface of the substrate and may be detrimental to subsequent substrate processing techniques. The laser contacts this identified contaminant at its x, y coordinates to remove only such contaminant while not substantially treating or directly contacting the area surrounding the contaminant, thereby preventing damaging or altering the substrate surface.
Carbon dioxide-soluble polymers and swellable polymers for carbon dioxide applications[June 8, 2004]
A method for carrying out a catalysis reaction in carbon dioxide comprising contacting a fluid mixture with a catalyst bound to a polymer, the fluid mixture comprising at least one reactant and carbon dioxide, wherein the reactant interacts with the catalyst to form a reaction product. A composition of matter comprises carbon dioxide and a polymer and a reactant present in the carbon dioxide. The polymer has bound thereto a catalyst at a plurality of chains along the length of the polymer, and wherein the reactant interacts with the catalyst to form a reaction product. Method of performing a chemical reaction[June 8, 2004]
According to the present invention there is provided a method of carrying out a chemical reaction between at least two fluids, the method comprising providing respective flow paths for the at least two fluids, said flow paths communicating with each other in a region in which the at least two fluids may contact each other, and flowing the at least two fluids along said flow paths such that in said region the at least two fluids contact each other and a chemical reaction occurs between them, said region having a width perpendicular to the direction of flow in the range 10-10,000 micrometers. It has been found that using a so-called "microreactor", that is a reactor having dimensions perpendicular to the flow direction of less than 10,000 micrometers, according to the present method, improved control over a fluid chemical reaction can be achieved, which can result in significant improvements in reaction product yield and/or purity, as well as other benefits. The present method has been found to be particularly beneficial for fluorination reactions. 
Polyoxypropylene/polyoxyethylene copolymers with improved biological activity[June 8, 2004]
The present invention comprises novel preparations of polyoxypropylene/polyoxyethylene copolymers which retain the therapeutic activity of the commercial preparations, but are substantially free from the undesirable effects which are inherent in the prior art preparations. Because the preparations of polyoxypropylene/polyoxyethylene copolymers which comprise the present invention are a less polydisperse population of molecules than the prior art polyoxypropylene/polyoxyethylene copolymers, the biological activity of the copolymers is better defined and more predictable.
Pharmaceutical preparations of bioactive substances extracted from natural sources [June 8, 2004]
This invention relates to methods of extracting and purifying bioactive substances from various plants and herbs. More specifically the invention relates to methods of extracting and separating bioactive substances from various plants and herbs, such as Kava root, Byrsonima species, Aesculus californica, Crataegus mexicana, Simmondsia chinensis, Pfaffia species, Alternanthera repens, Bursera species, Turnera species, Perezia species, Heimia salicifolia, Psidium species, Enterlobium species, Ptychopetalum olacoides, Liriosma ovata, and Chaunochiton kappleri, using supercritical fluid extraction and/or fluorocarbon solvent extract. The present invention further relates to separation of bioactive substances contained in extracts using packed column supercritical fluid chromatography or HPLC where dense gas with or without modifiers is the mobile phase. The present invention also relates to pharmaceutical preparations and dietary supplements which may be prepared with the extracted bioactive substances and use of such pharmaceutical preparations and dietary supplements to treat various human ailments.
In situ thermal processing of a hydrocarbon containing formation using a controlled heating rate [June 8, 2004]A hydrocarbon containing formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. A mixture of hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a pyrolysis temperature. A heating rate to a selected volume of the formation may be controlled by altering an amount of heating energy per day that is provided to the selected volume.
Situ thermal processing of a hydrocarbon containing formation to control product composition [June 8, 2004]
A hydrocarbon containing formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. A mixture of hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a pyrolysis temperature. Heat and pressure applied to the formation may be controlled so that a majority of the hydrocarbons produced from the formation have carbon numbers less than 25. Conditions may be controlled to produce low quantities of olefins in non-condensable hydrocarbons produced from the formation.
In situ thermal processing of a hydrocarbon containing formation by controlling a pressure of the formation [June 8, 2004]
A hydrocarbon containing formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. A mixture of hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a pyrolysis temperature. A pressure within a majority of the portion may be controlled and/or maintained to alter a composition of the produced mixture. Process for the preparation of xanthophyll crystals[June 1, 2004]
The invention disclosed in this application relates to a process for the preparation of xanthophyll crystals containing at least 85% total xanthophylls with at least 90% trans-lutein and/or zeaxanthin, trace amounts of cis-lutein and other carotenoids which comprises admixing and heating xanthophyll ester concentrate using excess alcoholic alkali solution, maintaining the resulting mixture at a temperature in the range of 65.degree.C. to about 80.degree C., for a period sufficient to saponify the xanthophyll esters; removing the aliphatic alcohol from the mixture under reduced pressure to get saponified crude concentrate; admixing the saponified crude concentrate obtained with water at room temperature to form a diluted oily mixture; extracting the diluted oily mixture obtained with ethyl acetate to get xanthophyll extract which is processed by conventional methods to get xanthophyll crystals containing high amounts of trans-lutein and/or zeaxanthin along with trace amounts of cis-lutein and other carotenoids. The xanthophyll crystals prepared by the process of the present invention are useful as antioxidant, prevention of cataract and macular degeneration, lung cancer preventive agent, as agents for the absorption of harmful ultra-violet light from sun rays and quencher of photo-induced free radical and reactive oxygen species. Kernel oil from plant kernel, process for extracting same, pharmaceutical composition and thereof [June 1, 2004]
The invention provides a kernel oil extracted from plant kernels, comprising triglyceride 90-99.9%, diglyceride 0.01-5%, monoglycerides 0.01-3%, sitosterol 0.1-2.5% and cyclolanosterol 0.01-1%. The invention also provides two methods for the extraction of said kernel oil, the pharmaceutical compositions and the uses thereof.
Synthesis of siloxane resins[June 1, 2004]
Novel processes for preparing hydridosiloxane and organohydridosiloxane resins are disclosed. The processes of the invention broadly provide for the steps of contacting a silane monomer with a phase transfer catalyst in the presence of a reaction mixture that includes a nonpolar, e.g., hydrocarbon, solvent, and a polar solvent, e.g., alcohol and water. The process is conducted under conditions effective to catalytically convert said silane monomer into hydridosiloxane and organohydridosiloxane resins. Recovery of the products is advantageously aided by the ease of separating the phase transfer catalyst from the dual phase reaction mixture by separating the immiscible polar solvent carrying the catalyst from the nonpolar solvent, that carries the product. Hydridosiloxane and organohydridosiloxane resins produced by the processes of the invention are also provided.
Extraction of sterols from cocoa hulls [June 1, 2004]
Cocoa oils containing phytosterols and tocols are prepared by extracting the cocoa hulls from dried unfermented or fermented cocoa beans, micronized cocoa beans, or roasted beans with a solvent such as petroleum ether and then removing the solvent. The cocoa oils are useful in foods, dietary supplements, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.
Delivery of anti-migraine compounds through an inhalation route[June 1, 2004]
The present invention relates to the delivery of anti-migraine compounds through an inhalation route. Specifically, it relates to aerosols containing lidocaine, verapamil, diltiazem, isometheptene, or lisuride that are used in inhalation therapy. In a composition aspect of the present invention, the aerosol comprises particles comprising at least 5 percent by weight of lidocaine, verapamil, diltiazem, isometheptene, or lisuride. In a method aspect of the present invention, one of lidocaine, verapamil, diltiazem, isometheptene, or lisuride is delivered to a mammal through an inhalation route. The method comprises: a) heating a composition, wherein the composition comprises at least 5 percent by weight of lidocaine, verapamil, diltiazem, isometheptene, or lisuride, to form a vapor; and, b) allowing the vapor to cool, thereby forming a condensation aerosol comprising particles, which is inhaled by the mammal. In a kit aspect of the present invention, a kit for delivering lidocaine, verapamil, diltiazem, isometheptene, or lisuride through an inhalation route to a mammal is provided which comprises: a) a composition comprising at least 5 percent by weight of lidocaine, verapamil, diltiazem, isometheptene, or lisuride; and, b) a device that forms a lidocaine, verapamil, diltiazem, isometheptene, or lisuride containing aerosol from the composition, for inhalation by the mammal.
High throughput high performance chromatography system[June 1, 2004]
A high throughput high performance chromatography system operating at a high mixing pressure including a plurality of pressurized solvent reservoirs, e.g. pumps, each maintaining an associated solvent at a substantially constant pressure. A plurality of flow control valves are connected downstream or upstream of the reservoirs for controlling the flow rate of the solvent into the respective columns. The number of reservoirs equals the number of solvents. Accordingly, the system reduces the number of pumps required thereby saving money and space. Furthermore, the system increases sample throughput, accelerates method development and minimizes organic waste.
High throughput high performance chromatography system[June 1, 2004]
A high throughput high performance chromatography system operating at a high mixing pressure including a plurality of pressurized solvent reservoirs, e.g. pumps, each maintaining an associated solvent at a substantially constant pressure. A plurality of flow control valves are connected downstream or upstream of the reservoirs for controlling the flow rate of the solvent into the respective columns. The number of reservoirs equals the number of solvents. Accordingly, the system reduces the number of pumps required thereby saving money and space. Furthermore, the system increases sample throughput, accelerates method development and minimizes organic waste.
Compositions comprising undecamantanes and processes for their separation[June 1, 2004]
Disclosed are compositions comprising one or more undecamantanes. Specifically disclosed are compositions comprising 25 to 100 weight percent of one or more undecamantanes. Also disclosed are novel processes for the separation and isolation of undecamantane components into recoverable fractions from a feedstock containing at least a higher diamondoid component which contains one or more undecamantane components.
In situ thermal processing of a hydrocarbon containing formation using heat transfer from a heat transfer fluid to heat the formation[June 1, 2004]
A hydrocarbon containing formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. Hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation from heat sources to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a desired temperature. A heat transfer fluid may be circulated within wellbores of some heat sources to heat the formation. The heat transfer fluid may be combustion gas from burners.
In situ thermal processing of a coal formation using repeating triangular patterns of heat sources[June 1, 2004]
A coal formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. A mixture of hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a pyrolysis temperature. Heat sources may be used to heat the formation. The heat sources may be positioned within the formation in a pattern. The pattern may be a repeating pattern of triangles.
In situ thermal processing of a hydrocarbon containing formation to produce formation fluids having a relatively low olefin content[June 1, 2004]
A hydrocarbon containing formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. A mixture of hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a pyrolysis temperature. A hydrocarbon condensate produced from the formation may be a high quality oil that has a low olefin content.
In situ thermal processing of a coal formation to form a substantially uniform, relatively high permeable formation[June 1, 2004]
A coal formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. Hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a pyrolysis temperature. After production of the mixture is ended, the portion may be cooled to produce a spent portion of the formation.
Catalytic oxidation of organic substrates by transition metal complexes in organic solvent media expanded by supercritical or subcritical carbon dioxide [May 25, 2004]
Improved oxidation methods are provided wherein a reaction mixture comprising a substrate to be oxidized (e.g., phenols, alkenes) and an oxidation catalyst (typically dispersed in an organic solvent system) is supplemented with a compressed gas which expands the reaction mixture, thus accelerating the oxidation reaction. In preferred practice pressurized subcritical or supercritical carbon dioxide is used as the expanding gas, which is introduced into the reaction mixture together with an oxidizing agent. The inventive methods improve the substrate conversion and product selectivity by increasing the solubility of the oxidizing agent in the reaction mixture.
Methods of treating benzodiazepine site (BZD-S) associated syndromes using 2' hydroxyflavonoids [May 25, 2004]
Methods for preventing or for treating benzodiazepine site (BZD-S) associated syndromes comprising administering 2' hydroxyflavone and flavone derivatives thereof which contain a hydroxyl group at the 2' position to a patient in need thereof in an effective dose. Methods for extracting certain of the compounds from plant material are also described.
Magnetic recording media and magnetic recording apparatus used thereof [May 25, 2004]
The disclosed invention provides a high-reliability magnetic recording apparatus, magnetic recording medium, and a method of manufacturing such a medium in a high-density magnetic recording apparatus which comprises a magnetic disk revolving at a high speed and a magnetic head which flies as low as possible over the magnetic disk. A lubricant layer formed on the outermost surface of a magnetic recording medium is constituted by a lubricant which comprises fluoropolyether as the principal ingredient. The fluoropolyether lubricant is characterized in that alcohol hydration distribution which corresponds to difference between the greatest and smallest alcohol valences among the component molecules of the fluoropolyether is adjusted to 0.48 or less and an average alcohol valence among the component molecules is adjusted to fall within a range of 3.00 to 3.91.
Delivery of compounds for the treatment of migraine through an inhalation route [May 25, 2004]
The present invention relates to the delivery of a migraine headache drug through an inhalation route. Specifically, it relates to aerosols containing a migraine headache drug that are used in inhalation therapy. In a composition aspect of the present invention, the aerosol comprises particles comprising at least 5 percent by weight of a migraine headache drug. In a method aspect of the present invention, a migraine headache drug is delivered to a mammal through an inhalation route. The method comprises: a) heating a composition, wherein the composition comprises at least 5 percent by weight of a migraine headache drug, to form a vapor; and, b) allowing the vapor to cool, thereby forming a condensation aerosol comprising particles, which is inhaled by the mammal. In a kit aspect of the present invention, a kit for delivering a migraine headache drug through an inhalation route to a mammal is provided which comprises: a) a composition comprising at least 5 percent by weight of a migraine headache drug; and, b) a device that forms a migraine headache drug containing aerosol from the composition, for inhalation by the mammal. 
Delivery of antihistamines through an inhalation route [May 25, 2004]
 The present invention relates to the delivery of antihistamines through an inhalation route. Specifically, it relates to aerosols containing antihistamines that are used in inhalation therapy. In a composition aspect of the present invention, the aerosol comprises particles comprising at least 5 percent by weight of an antihistamine. In a method aspect of the present invention, an antihistamine is delivered to a mammal through an inhalation route. The method comprises: a) heating a composition, wherein the composition comprises at least 5 percent by weight of an antihistamine, to form a vapor; and, b) allowing the vapor to cool, thereby forming a condensation aerosol comprising particles, which is inhaled by the mammal. In a kit aspect of the present invention, a kit for delivering an antihistamine through an inhalation route to a mammal is provided which comprises: a) a composition comprising at least 5 percent by weight of an antihistamine; and, b) a device that forms an antihistamine containing aerosol from the composition, for inhalation by the mammal.
Delivery of .beta.-blockers through an inhalation route [May 25, 2004]
 The present invention relates to the delivery of beta-blockers through an inhalation route. Specifically, it relates to aerosols containing atenolol, pindolol, esmolol, propranolol, or metoprolol that are used in inhalation therapy. In a composition aspect of the present invention, the aerosol comprises particles comprising at least 5 percent by weight of atenolol, pindolol, esmolol, propranolol, or metoprolol. In a method aspect of the present invention, one of atenolol, pindolol, esmolol, propranolol, or metoprolol is delivered to a mammal through an inhalation route. The method comprises: a) heating a composition, wherein the composition comprises at least 5 percent by weight of atenolol, pindolol, esmolol, propranolol, or metoprolol, to form a vapor; and, b) allowing the vapor to cool, thereby forming a condensation aerosol comprising particles, which is inhaled by the mammal. In a kit aspect of the present invention, a kit for delivering atenolol, pindolol, esmolol, propranolol, or metoprolol through an inhalation route to a mammal is provided which comprises: a) a composition comprising at least 5 percent by weight of atenolol, pindolol, esmolol, propranolol, or metoprolol; and, b) a device that forms a atenolol, pindolol, esmolol, propranolol, or metoprolol containing aerosol from the composition, for inhalation by the mammal.
Production of synthesis gas from a hydrocarbon containing formation [May 25, 2004]
A hydrocarbon containing formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. A mixture of hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a synthesis gas production temperature. A synthesis gas producing fluid may be introduced into the formation to generate synthesis gas. Synthesis gas may be produced from the formation in a batch manner or in a substantially continuous manner.
In situ thermal processing of a coal formation and tuning production [May 25, 2004]
A coal formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. A mixture of hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a pyrolysis temperature. The mixture may be produced from the formation through production wells. A spacing between production wells, and operating conditions of production wells and heat injection wells, may allow the produced mixture to have a desired ratio of condensable hydrocarbons to non-condensable hydrocarbons.
Apparatus for cleaning filters  [May 25, 2004]
A process and apparatus for cleaning filters prior to recycling or disposal. In this process and apparatus liquid or supercritical carbon dioxide contacts the plugged pores of a filter under conditions in which carbon dioxide remains in the liquid or supercritical state.
Multilevel interconnect structure containing air gaps and method for making [May 18, 2004]
A method for forming a multilayer interconnect structure on a substrate that include interconnected conductive wiring and vias spaced apart by a combination of solid or gaseous dielectrics. The inventive method includes the steps of: (a) forming a first planar via plus line level pair embedded in a dielectric matrix formed from one or more solid dielectrics and comprising a via level dielectric and a line level dielectric on a substrate, wherein, at least one of said solid dielectrics is at least partially sacrificial; (b) etching back sacrificial portions of said at least partially sacrificial dielectrics are removed to leave cavities extending into and through said via level, while leaving, at least some of the original via level dielectric as a permanent dielectric under said lines; (c) partially filling or overfilling said cavities with a place-holder material which may or may not be sacrificial; (d) planarizing the structure by removing overfill of said place-holder material; (e) repeating, as necessary, steps (a)-(d); (f) forming a dielectric bridge layer over the planar structure; and (g) forming air gaps by at least partially extracting said place-holder material.
Low dielectric constant shallow trench isolation [May 18, 2004]
Techniques of shallow trench isolation and devices produced therefrom. The techniques of shallow trench isolation utilize foamed polymers, cured aerogels or air gaps as the insulation medium. Such techniques facilitate lower dielectric constants than the standard silicon dioxide due to the cells of gaseous components inherent in foamed polymers, cured aerogels or air gaps. Lower dielectric constants reduce capacitive coupling concerns and thus permit higher device density in an integrated circuit device.
Method for extracting lutein from green plant materials [May 18, 2004]
The present invention provides a method for extracting carotenoids from green plant materials using supercritical fluid extraction. A first and second supercritical fluid extraction is performed on the green plant composition at two different pressures to obtain two extracts. The first extract includes substantial amounts of .beta.-carotene. The second extract is substantially free of .beta.-carotene, and includes substantial amounts of lutein.
Mesoporous carbons and polymers [May 18, 2004]
A polymer is prepared by polymerizing a polymerizable component from a mixture containing the polymerizable component and a surfactant, the surfactant and the polymerizable component being present in the mixture in a molar ratio of at least 0.2:1, having an average pore size greater than 4 nm and a density greater than 0.1 g/cc. The polymerizable component can comprise a resorcinol/formaldehyde system and the mixture can comprise an aqueous solution or the polymerizable component can comprise a divinylbenzene/styrene system and the mixture can comprise an organic solution. Alternatively, the polymerizable component can comprise vinylidene chloride or a vinylidene chloride/divinylbenzene system. The polymer may be monolithic, have a BET surface area of at least about 50 m.sup.2 /g., include a quantity of at least one metal powder, or have an electrical conductivity greater than 10 Scm.sup.-1.
Supercritical extraction of taxanes [May 18, 2004]
A method for extracting taxanes such as taxol, including the use of supercritical fluids.
Method for producing microcomponents[May 18, 2004]
Micro-components having at least one individual layer are produced according to the method, which have functional layers 3 on the walls of inner structures, for example of flow channels. The micro-components are intended to be suitable for a large number of different applications in chemical reaction technology, for heat exchanging, for mixing substances or for evaporating liquids. In particular, the micro-components are intended to have no problems in respect of leaks in the flow channels. The method has the following method steps: A. producing the at least one individual layer by: a. producing a first metal layer or a metal foil 1; b. forming the inner structures in and/or on the first metal layer or metal foil 1 by suitable etching methods and/or metal deposition methods; and c. forming the functional layers 3 solely on the walls of the inner structures and thereafter B. stacking up and joining the one individual layer to a segment terminating the inner structures, or a plurality of individual layers to one another and to the terminating segment.
Delivery of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam through an inhalation route[May 18, 2004]
The present invention relates to the delivery of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam through an inhalation route. Specifically, it relates to aerosols containing alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam that are used in inhalation therapy. In a composition aspect of the present invention, the aerosol comprises particles comprising at least 5 percent by weight of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam. In a method aspect of the present invention, alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam is delivered to a mammal through an inhalation route. The method comprises: a) heating a composition, wherein the composition comprises at least 5 percent by weight of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam, to form a vapor; and, b) allowing the vapor to cool, thereby forming a condensation aerosol comprising particles, which is inhaled by the mammal. In a kit aspect of the present invention, a kit for delivering alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam through an inhalation route to a mammal is provided which comprises: a) a composition comprising at least 5 percent by weight of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam; and, b) a device that forms an alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam containing aerosol from the composition, for inhalation by the mammal.
Compositions for protecting civil infrastructure[May 18, 2004]
A method of protecting a civil infrastructure substrate from the damaging effects of pollution, noxious fumes, weather, and the like. The method comprises (a) providing a composition comprising carbon dioxide and a fluorocarbon such as a fluoropolyether (preferably a perfluoropolyether) or a fluorocarbon elastomer, optionally having at least one anchoring group such as an amide covalently joined thereto, and then (b) applying that composition to the civil infrastructure substrate to form a protective coating thereon. The applying step is preferably carried out by spraying. Compositions useful for carrying out the process of the invention are also disclosed.
Method for producing microcomponents[May 18, 2004]
Micro-components having at least one individual layer are produced according to the method, which have functional layers 3 on the walls of inner structures, for example of flow channels. The micro-components are intended to be suitable for a large number of different applications in chemical reaction technology, for heat exchanging, for mixing substances or for evaporating liquids. In particular, the micro-components are intended to have no problems in respect of leaks in the flow channels. The method has the following method steps: A. producing the at least one individual layer by: a. producing a first metal layer or a metal foil 1; b. forming the inner structures in and/or on the first metal layer or metal foil 1 by suitable etching methods and/or metal deposition methods; and c. forming the functional layers 3 solely on the walls of the inner structures and thereafter B. stacking up and joining the one individual layer to a segment terminating the inner structures, or a plurality of individual layers to one another and to the terminating segment.
Turbine part mount for supercritical fluid processor[May 18, 2004]
A workpiece holder for processing a workpiece in a chamber of a liquified fluid. In one embodiment, the workpiece holder includes a cylindrically shaped rotator having an exterior wall and at least one fluid guide on the exterior wall. The rotator is adapted to rotate and provide fluid flow across a first end of the rotator, and is adapted to provide fluid flow and mixing perpendicular to a surface of the first end of the rotator. A fixture is coupled to the first end of the rotator for securing the workpiece to the first end of the rotator.
Cleaning system utilizing an organic cleaning solvent and a pressurized fluid solvent[May 18, 2004]
A cleaning system that utilizes an organic cleaning solvent and pressurized fluid solvent is disclosed. The system has no conventional evaporative hot air drying cycle. Instead, the system utilizes the solubility of the organic solvent in pressurized fluid solvent as well as the physical properties of pressurized fluid solvent. After an organic solvent cleaning cycle, the solvent is extracted from the textiles at high speed in a rotating drum in the same way conventional solvents are extracted from textiles in conventional evaporative hot air dry cleaning machines. Instead of proceeding to a conventional drying cycle, the extracted textiles are then immersed in pressurized fluid solvent to extract the residual organic solvent from the textiles. This is possible because the organic solvent is soluble in pressurized fluid solvent. After the textiles are immersed in pressurized fluid solvent, pressurized fluid solvent is pumped from the drum. Finally, the drum is de-pressurized to atmospheric pressure to evaporate any remaining pressurized fluid solvent, yielding clean, solvent free textiles. The organic solvent is preferably dipropylene glycol n-butyl ether, tripropylene glycol n-butyl ether or tripropylene glycol methyl ether, a mixture thereof, or a similar solvent and the pressurized fluid solvent is preferably densified carbon dioxide. Drinking straw prepared from flattened polymeric tubular conduit, method of making same and dispenser therefor[May 18, 2004]
A drinking straw for consuming a beverage is prepared by: a) melt-extruding a polymeric material in the shape of a continuous tubular conduit suitable for preparing a plurality of drinking straws; b) cooling said continuous tubular conduit to a temperature below the softening point of the polymer; c) flattening the tubular conduit so as to collapse its structure into a substantially planar form, thereby constricting the central longitudinal cavity and reducing the volume of the continuous tubular conduit; d) cutting a length from the continuous conduit of suitable length for making the straw; and e) dilating the length cut from the conduit so as to restore the cross-sectional area of the central cavity and reconstitute the tubular structure of the straw. Advantages of the invention include minimizing storage space and shipping bulk, as well as reducing the need for packaging materials. In further aspects of the invention, there are provided particular processes for making the drinking straw and a drinking straw dispenser.
In situ thermal processing of a hydrocarbon containing formation, in situ production of synthesis gas, and carbon dioxide sequestration[May 18, 2004]  A hydrocarbon containing formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. Hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a pyrolysis temperature. Pyrolysis products may be produced from the formation. After pyrolysis, the temperature of the portion may be raised to a synthesis gas production temperature. A synthesis gas producing fluid may be introduced into the formation to generate synthesis gas. After synthesis gas production, the portion may be cooled and used to store carbon dioxide or other fluids.
Method and apparatus for supercritical processing of multiple workpieces[May 18, 2004]
An apparatus for supercritical processing of multiple workpieces comprises a transfer module, first and second supercritical processing modules, and a robot. The transfer module includes an entrance. The first and second supercritical processing modules are coupled to the transfer module. The robot is preferably located with the transfer module. In operation, the robot transfers a first workpiece from the entrance of the transfer module to the first supercritical processing module. The robot then transfers a second workpiece from the entrance to the second supercritical processing module. After the workpieces have been processed, the robot returns the first and second workpieces to the entrance of the transfer module. Alternatively, the apparatus includes additional supercritical processing modules coupled to the transfer module.
Treatment of supercritical fluid utilized in semiconductor manufacturing applications[May 18, 2004]
A system and process for utilization and disposition of a supercritical fluid composition, in which a supercritical fluid (SCF) composition is used in an SCF-using process facility such as a semiconductor manufacturing plant. The supercritical fluid composition is withdrawn from the process facility containing at least one component that is extraneous with respect to the further disposition of the supercritical fluid composition. The withdrawn supercritical fluid composition is converted to a pressurized liquid, which is treated to at least partially remove the extraneous component(s) therefrom. The extraneous component(s)-depleted pressurized liquid in its further disposition can be reconverted to a supercritical state for recycle to the SCF-using process facility, or it can be gasified and discharged to the atmosphere in the case of supercritical fluids such as CO.sub.2.
Integrated circuit device structure including foamed polymeric material[May 11, 2004]
A method of forming an insulating material for use in an integrated circuit includes providing a substrate of the integrated circuit and forming a polymeric material on the substrate. At least a portion of the polymeric material is converted to a foamed polymeric material. The converting of the polymeric material includes exposing at least a portion of the polymeric material to a supercritical fluid. Further, an integrated circuit includes a substrate of the integrated circuit and a foamed polymeric material on at least a portion of the substrate. The integrated circuit may further include a conductive layer adjacent the foamed polymeric material. The conductive layer may be a metal line on the foamed polymeric material, or the conductive layer may be an interconnect, e.g., a contact or a via, adjacent the foamed polymeric material.
Divided pressure vessel apparatus for carbon dioxide based systems and methods of using same [May 11, 2004]
A method of utilizing a divided pressure vessel in a processing system employing a carbon dioxide based solvent includes transferring a first carbon dioxide based treating solution from a first liquid chamber in a divided pressure vessel having a plurality of liquid chambers to a processing vessel, returning the first treating solution from the processing vessel to the divided pressure vessel, transferring a second carbon dioxide based treating solution having a composition different from the first treating solution from a second liquid chamber in the divided pressure vessel to a processing vessel, and returning the second treating solution from the processing vessel to the divided pressure vessel. A divided pressure vessel may allow multiple solvent baths each having a different chemical composition to be stored and/or processed in a single pressure vessel while maintaining the different chemical compositions of the multiple solvent baths. Thus, such divided pressure vessels may provide the improved operational efficiency of a carbon dioxide based system having multiple solvent baths while decreasing the capital costs that may be associated with such systems.
Self-assembled monolayer and method of making[May 11, 2004]
According to the present invention, the previously known functional material having a self-assembled monolayer on a substrate has a plurality of assembly molecules each with an assembly atom with a plurality of bonding sites (four sites when silicon is the assembly molecule) wherein a bonding fraction (or fraction) of fully bonded assembly atoms (the plurality of bonding sites bonded to an oxygen atom) has a maximum when made by liquid solution deposition, for example a maximum of 40% when silicon is the assembly molecule, and maximum surface density of assembly molecules was 5 silanes per square nanometer. Note that bonding fraction and surface population are independent parameters. The method of the present invention is an improvement to the known method for making a siloxane layer on a substrate, wherein instead of a liquid phase solution chemistry, the improvement is a supercritical phase chemistry. The present invention has the advantages of greater fraction of oxygen bonds, greater surface density of assembly molecules and reduced time for reaction of about 5 minutes to about 24 hours.
In situ production of synthesis gas from a hydrocarbon containing formation, the synthesis gas having a selected H2 to CO ratio [May 11, 2004]
A hydrocarbon containing formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. A mixture of hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a pyrolysis temperature. A portion of a formation may be heated from a plurality of heat sources to a temperature sufficient to allow generation of a first synthesis gas having a low H.sub.2 to CO ratio. A second portion of a formation may generate synthesis gas having a H.sub.2 to CO ratio greater than the first synthesis gas. A portion of the first synthesis gas may be blended with a portion of the second synthesis gas to produce a blend synthesis gas having a desired H.sub.2 to CO ratio.
In situ thermal processing of a hydrocarbon containing formation to pyrolyze a selected percentage of hydrocarbon material [May 11, 2004]
A hydrocarbon containing formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. A mixture of hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a pyrolysis temperature. Heat may be allowed to transfer from one or more heat sources to a selected section of the formation such that superimposed heat from the one or more heat sources pyrolyzes a relatively large portion of hydrocarbon material within the selected section of the formation.
In situ thermal processing of a hydrocarbon containing formation to produce a mixture with a selected hydrogen content [May 11, 2004]
A hydrocarbon containing formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. A mixture of hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a pyrolysis temperature. The mixture produced from the formation may have a relatively high hydrogen partial pressure, and a large portion of the pressure within the formation may be attributable to hydrogen partial pressure.
  Linear copolymers of fluorocarbon-hydrocarbon monomers synthesized in carbon dioxide[May ,4 2004]
Linear copolymers of fluorocarbon and hydrocarbon monomers. The present invention provides linear copolymers and terpolymers of fluorocarbon and hydrocarbon monomers, and particularly the invention provides a linear copolymers, of fluoromonomers, such as tetrafluoroethylene, chlorotrifluoroethylene, or vinylidene fluoride, with hydrocarbon monomers, such as vinyl acetate, acrylic acid ethyl acetate or tertiary butyl acrylate. The copolymers were synthesized by polymerization by a free radical mechanism in supercritical carbon dioxide and they are linear because of synthesis in carbon dioxide. The copolymer composition was controlled by the monomer feed concentration to have between 7 and 71 mol % TFE. Additionally, new and predominantly linear co- and terpolymers were prepared by hydrolysis and trans-esterification of the latter copolymers. Furthermore, neither surfactants nor dispersing agents are required to produce the linear copolymers, but may be used.
Catalyst and process for olefin polymerization[May 4, 2004]
Olefin polymerization may be catalysed by a wide range of catalytic materials. Described herein is a heterogeneous olefin polymerization catalyst comprising a porous paniculate support material having impregnated therein a metallocene catalyst the metal atom whereof is bound to an amide group which is not bound to an .eta.-ligand of the metallocene, or the reaction product of a said metallocene catalyst and a co-catalyst.
Spray member and method for using the same[May 4, 2004]
A process chamber assembly for use with a substrate and a flow of process fluid includes a vessel and a spray member. The vessel defines a chamber. The spray member includes at least one spray port formed therein adapted to distribute the flow of process fluid onto the substrate in the chamber. The spray member is operative to rotate about a rotational axis relative to the vessel responsive to a flow of the process fluid out of the spray member through the at least one spray port.
Pharmaceutical formulations[May 4, 2004]
The invention relates to pharmaceutical formulations for use in the administration of medicaments, in particular lipophilic medicaments, via mucosal surfaces.
In situ thermal processing of a hydrocarbon containing formation and ammonia production[May 4, 2004]
A hydrocarbon containing formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. A mixture of hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a synthesis gas production temperature. A synthesis gas generating fluid may be introduced into the portion. Synthesis gas may be produced from the formation. Synthesis gas may be used as a feed stream in an ammonia synthesis process. Ammonia may be used as a feed stream in a urea synthesis process. In situ thermal processing of a hydrocarbon containing formation with a selected vitrinite reflectance[May 4, 2004]
A hydrocarbon containing formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. A mixture of hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a pyrolysis temperature. The formation to be treated may be chosen so that the mixture produced from the formation will have a desired amount of condensable hydrocarbons and non-condensable hydrocarbons. The formation to be treated may be chosen based on an initial vitrinite reflectance of the formation.
In situ thermal processing of a coal formation to produce hydrocarbons having a selected carbon number range[May 4, 2004]
A coal formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. A mixture of hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a pyrolysis temperature. An average temperature and/or pressure within the formation may be controlled to inhibit production of hydrocarbons that have carbon numbers greater than 25. A small amount of hydrocarbons having carbon numbers greater than 25 may be entrained in vapor produced from the formation. In situ thermal processing of a hydrocarbon containing formation with a selected ratio of heat sources to production wells[May 4, 2004]
A hydrocarbon containing formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. A mixture of hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a pyrolysis temperature. The mixture may be produced from the formation through a plurality of production wells. A selected number of heat sources may be positioned in the formation for each production well.
Photoacoustic sample vessel and method of elevated pressure operation[May 4, 2004]
An improved photoacoustic vessel and method of photoacoustic analysis. The photoacoustic sample vessel comprises an acoustic detector, an acoustic couplant, and an acoustic coupler having a chamber for holding the acoustic couplant and a sample. The acoustic couplant is selected from the group consisting of liquid, solid, and combinations thereof. Passing electromagnetic energy through the sample generates an acoustic signal within the sample, whereby the acoustic signal propagates through the sample to and through the acoustic couplant to the acoustic detector.
Enhancement of fluid replacement in porous media through pressure
modulation[May 4, 2004]
A method is described for enhancing mass and heat transport of fluids in a fine pore structure through an appropriate modulation of the fluid pressure. For example, in an air drying process for a porous material that contains liquid, the air pressure is modulated throughout the volume of the drying chamber. Alternatively, the fluid pressure is modulated in a process stream. As an example, this method can be used for rapid drying of any open porous substances ranging from small pored materials such as aerogels and xerogels, to larger pored substances or articles such as industrial articles, agricultural articles (e.g., densely stacked vegetables, coffee beans, hops and other grains), paper-based products, thin films, pharmaceuticals, cloth, and clothing.
Formation of thin film capacitors[April 27, 2004]
Thin layer capacitors are formed from a first flexible metal layer, a dielectric layer between about 0.03 and about 2 microns deposited thereon, and a second flexible metal layer deposited on the dielectric layer. The first flexible metal layer may either be a metal foil, such as a copper, aluminum, or nickel foil, or a metal layer deposited on a polymeric support sheet. Depositions of the layers is by or is facilitate by combustion chemical vapor deposition or controlled atmosphere chemical vapor deposition.
Preparation of microbial polyunsaturated fatty acid containing oil from pasteurised biomass[April 27, 2004]
The present invention discloses a microbial polyunsaturated fatty acid(PUFA)-containing oil with a high triglyceride content and a high oxidative stability. In addition, a method is described for the recovery of such oil from a microbial biomass deriverd from a pasteurized fermentation broth, wherein the microbial biomass is subjected to extrusion to form granular particles, dried and the oil then extracted from the dried granules using an appropriate solvent.
In situ thermal processing of a coal formation using a distributed combustor [April 27, 2004]
A coal formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process.A mixture of hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a pyrolysis temperature. Heat may be supplied to the formation by reacting an oxidant with hydrocarbons adjacent to heater wellbores to generate heat. Generated heat may be transferred to the portion substantially by conduction to pyrolyze at least a portion of the hydrocarbons within the portion.
In situ thermal processing of a coal formation by controlling a pressure of the formation[April 27, 2004]
A coal formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. A mixture of hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a pyrolysis temperature. A pressure within a majority of a selected section of the formation may be controlled and/or maintained to alter a composition of the produced mixture.
In situ thermal processing of a hydrocarbon containing formation to convert a selected amount of total organic carbon into hydrocarbon products[April 27, 2004]
A hydrocarbon containing formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. A mixture of hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a pyrolysis temperature. Heating may be controlled such that at least a selected amount of a total organic carbon content of the hydrocarbon material in the formation may be converted into formation fluids. 
Novolac polymer planarization films with high temperature stability [April 20, 2004]
A process for forming a planarization film on a substrate that does not smoke or fume on heating includes applying a polymeric solution including a novolac resin having a weight average molecular weight between about 1000 and 3000 amu, which has been fractionated to remove molecules with molecular weight below about 350 amu, a surfactant selected from a group consisting of a non-fluorinated hydrocarbon, a fluorinated hydrocarbon and combinations thereof, and an optional organic solvent to a substrate, followed by heating the substrate.
Method and apparatus for continuous flow reduction of microbial and/or enzymatic activity in a liquid product using carbon dioxide [April 20, 2004]
 A continuous method using gaseous carbon dioxide or a pressurized flow of liquefied carbon dioxide is described to reduce microbial and/or enzymatic activity in a liquid product. The carbon dioxide is combined with a pressurized flow of the liquid product, or the mixture is pressurized after the mixture is formed. The pressure and temperature in the flow regions are maintained at a level which is sufficient to keep the carbon dioxide in a continuous liquid state, but which does not freeze the liquid product. The pressurized mixture of the carbon dioxide and liquid product flows through a reaction zone for a sufficient time to reduce harmful microorganisms and/or inactivate enzymes and then enters one or more expansion stages wherein the pressure of the mixture flow is sufficiently decreased to vaporize the carbon dioxide for separation from the liquid product. If necessary, heat is applied in at least one of the expansion stages to prevent a freezing of the mixture.
Coating foods and pharmaceuticals with an edible polymer using carbon dioxide [April 20, 2004]
 A sprayable liquid coating composition, particularly for application to foodstuffs and pharmaceuticals, utilizes gaseous carbon dioxide to reduce the viscosity of a concentrated solution comprising an edible polymer and a solvent, such as ethyl alcohol or isopropyl alcohol. The addition of the gaseous carbon dioxide in the concentrated solution permits a sprayable composition to be produced using a significantly reduced level of solvent in the edible polymer/solvent solution. By reducing the amount of solvent used in the solution, the level of VOCs emission during the coating process also is reduced. Either supercritical carbon dioxide or subcritical carbon dioxide can be used as the gaseous carbon dioxide in the present invention.
In situ thermal processing of hydrocarbons within a relatively permeable formation [April 20, 2004]
A hydrocarbon containing formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. Hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to a first portion of the formation to mobilize hydrocarbons within the formation. Heat may be applied to a second portion of the formation to raise a temperature of the second portion to a pyrolysis temperature. Vaporized hydrocarbons and pyrolysis fluids may be produced from the formation.
In situ thermal processing of a coal formation with a selected oxygen content and/or selected O/C ratio [April 20, 2004]
A coal formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. A mixture of hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a pyrolysis temperature. A formation may be selected that will produce a relatively large amount of condensable hydrocarbons and/or a relatively large amount of non-condensable hydrocarbons. Hydrocarbons within the formation may have a relatively low initial elemental oxygen weight percentage. The formation to be treated may be selected based on initial elemental oxygen to carbon ratio of the formation.
In situ thermal processing of a hydrocarbon containing formation leaving one or more selected unprocessed areas[April 20, 2004]
A hydrocarbon containing formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. A mixture of hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a pyrolysis temperature. An unpyrolyzed section may be left between two substantially pyrolyzed sections to inhibit subsidence of the formation.
Rotational exchange gradient imager for in situ magnetic resonance analyses in ultracentrifuge sedimentation of biological materials and rheology investigations[April 13, 2004]
A detecting method and detector expands the capabilities of Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) analysis. A Rotational Exchange Gradient Imager (REGI) allows for real-time, in situ investigation of materials subjected to the effects of centrifugal force by NMR analysis. The REGI comprises a cylindrical stator formed of an electrically conductive, non-magnetic material, a rotor contained in the cylindrical stator formed of an electrically non-conductive, non-magnetic material, and a conductor located along a central axis of the cylindrical stator. A sample is contained within the rotor. The stator and central conductor serve to generate the RF magnetic field for NMR analysis. The rotor containing the sample is rotated within a stable air bearing formed between the cylindrical stator and rotor.
Micropump [April 13, 2004]
A microsized pump is set forth. It comprises a substrate which at least partially defines one or more walls of a longitudinally extending tunnel. The tunnel has a vibratable wall portion. A sonic energy generator is positioned in sonic energy transmitting relation to the vibratable wall portion. The sonic energy generator is adapted to generate elastic waves which travel along the longitudinal extension of the tunnel. The pump is useful for moving material along the tunnel whereby chemical and biological analysis and reactions can be carried out on a micro scale.
In situ thermal processing of a hydrocarbon containing formation in a hydrogen-rich environment  [April 13, 2004]
A hydrocarbon containing formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. A mixture of hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a pyrolysis temperature. A high hydrogen partial pressure within the formation may allow for hydrogenation of formation fluid within the formation. In addition, hydrogen, from produced formation fluid or from another source, may be used to hydrogenate produced fluid in a surface hydrogenation unit.
Multimodal fluoropolymers and methods of making the same[April 6, 2004]
A method for forming a fluoropolymer comprises providing a reaction mixture comprising carbon dioxide, at least one fluoromonomer, and an initiator; and reacting the at least one fluoromonomer in the reaction mixture to form a fluoropolymer. The fluoropolymer has a multimodal molecular weight distribution.
Process for producing fluoropolymer[April 6, 2004]
A process for preparing a fluoropolymer by polymerizing one or more radically polymerizable monomers comprising at least one fluoroolefin monomer in the presence of a radical polymerization initiator and as case demands, an inactive fluorocarbon and chain transfer agent in a reaction field where at least one of components forming the reaction field is in a supercritical state. According to the preparation process, generation of unstable end groups of the polymer, a decrease in a purity and complicated post-treatment can be eliminated.
Method for removing foreign matter, method for forming film, semiconductor device and film forming apparatus[April 6, 2004]
A semiconductor substrate is placed within a housing. By supplying organometallic complexes and carbon dioxide in a supercritical state into the housing, a BST thin film is formed on a platinum thin film, while at the same time, carbon compounds, which are produced when the BST thin film is formed, are removed. The solubility of carbon compounds in the supercritical carbon dioxide is very high, and yet the viscosity of the supercritical carbon dioxide is low. Accordingly, the carbon compounds are removable efficiently from the BST thin film. An oxide or nitride film may also be formed by performing oxidation or nitriding at a low temperature using water in a supercritical or subcritical state, for example.
Use of nanoscalar antimicrobial active ingredients in body deodorants[April 6, 2004]
A deodorant composition and method of making and using a deodorant composition are provided. The deodorant composition contains nanoscale antimicrobial particles where the nanoscale antimicrobial particles contain one or more antimicrobial agents and have a particle diameter in the range of from 5 nanometers to 500 nanometers.
Delivery of antipsychotics through an inhalation route[April 6, 2004]
The present invention relates to the delivery of antipsychotics through an inhalation route. Specifically, it relates to aerosols containing antipsychotics that are used in inhalation therapy. In a composition aspect of the present invention, the aerosol comprises particles comprising at least 5 percent by weight of an antipsychotic. In a method aspect of the present invention, an antipsychotic is delivered to a mammal through an inhalation route. The method comprises: a) heating a composition, wherein the composition comprises at least 5 percent by weight of an antipsychotic, to form a vapor; and, b) allowing the vapor to cool, thereby forming a condensation aerosol comprising particles, which is inhaled by the mammal. In a kit aspect of the present invention, a kit for delivering an antipsychotic through an inhalation route to a mammal is provided which comprises: a) a composition comprising at least 5 percent by weight of an antipsychotic; and, b) a device that forms an antipsychotic containing aerosol from the composition, for inhalation by the mammal.
Delivery of sedative-hypnotics through an inhalation route[April 6, 2004]
The present invention relates to the delivery of sedative-hypnotics through an inhalation route. Specifically, it relates to aerosols containing sedative-hypnotics that are used in inhalation therapy. In a composition aspect of the present invention, the aerosol comprises particles comprising at least 5 percent by weight of a sedative-hypnotic. In a method aspect of the present invention, a sedative-hypnotic is delivered to a mammal through an inhalation route. The method comprises: a) heating a composition, wherein the composition comprises at least 5 percent by weight of a sedative-hypnotic, to form a vapor; and, b) allowing the vapor to cool, thereby forming a condensation aerosol comprising particles, which is inhaled by the mammal. In a kit aspect of the present invention, a kit for delivering a sedative-hypnotic through an inhalation route to a mammal is provided which comprises: a) a composition comprising at least 5 percent by weight of a sedative-hypnotic; and, b) a device that forms a sedative-hypnotic containing aerosol from the composition, for inhalation by the mammal.
In situ thermal processing of a hydrocarbon containing formation with a selected atomic oxygen to carbon ratio[April 6, 2004]
A hydrocarbon containing formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. A mixture of hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a pyrolysis temperature. The formation to be treated may be selected based on initial elemental oxygen to carbon ratio of the formation.
In situ thermal processing of a hydrocarbon containing formation to produce nitrogen containing formation fluids[April 6, 2004]
A hydrocarbon containing formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. A mixture of hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a pyrolysis temperature. The mixture produced from the formation may contain condensable hydrocarbons fluids with some nitrogen containing hydrocarbons.
In situ thermal processing of a hydrocarbon containing formation to form a substantially uniform, high permeability formation[April 6, 2004]
A hydrocarbon containing formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. Hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a pyrolysis temperature. After production of the mixture is ended, the portion may be cooled to produce a spent portion of the formation.
In situ production of synthesis gas from a hydrocarbon containing formation through a heat source wellbore[April 6, 2004]
A hydrocarbon containing formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. Hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a synthesis gas production temperature. A synthesis gas producing fluid may be introduced into the formation to generate synthesis gas. Production wells may be operated at selected temperatures to obtain a desired synthesis gas composition.
Method and apparatus for radiation enhanced supercritical fluid processing[April 6, 2004]
A supercritical process vessel with an interior for holding a supercritical fluid is provided. A wafer support for supporting a wafer within the interior of a supercritical process vessel to expose the wafer to the supercritical fluid is provided. A lamp, which is able to operate at supercritical fluid pressures within the interior of the supercritical process vessel is provided.
Species modification in macrocyclic polyester oligomers, and compositions prepared thereby[March 30, 2004]
Physical properties, such as melting temperature of MPO compositions may be significantly modified by modifying the weight percentage of one or more of the constituent MPOs. For example, removal of a significant portion of the tetramer can afford low melting MPO compositions. In one aspect, the invention is related to a method for modifying a physical property of a MPO composition that includes the steps of (a) providing a composition that has at least two species of MPOs, and (b) changing the weight percentage of at least one species of the MPOs in the composition. In another aspect, the invention is related to a MPO composition that includes at least two species of MPOs where a species of the MPOs having the highest melting temperature is present in an amount less than or equal to 5%. In yet another aspect, the invention is related to a MPO composition comprising 30-40% macrocyclic polyester dimers, 30-45% macrocyclic polyester trimers, 0-5% macrocyclic polyester tetramers, and 5-20% macrocyclic polyester pentamers.
Uses of kombic acid as an anticancer and cholesterol-lowering agent[March 30, 2004] 
This invention provides a novel antioxidant, kombic acid or a derivative thereof, obtained from crude kombo butter suitable for preventing oxidation of various organic materials. In particular, the invention relates to the use of kombic acid as an antioxidant in the treatment of cancer, the inhibition of proliferation of cells, and in lowering levels of cholesterol both in vivo and in vitro. Method for removing foreign matter, method for forming film, semiconductor device and film forming apparatus[March 30, 2004] 
A semiconductor substrate is placed within a housing. By supplying organometallic complexes and carbon dioxide in a supercritical state into the housing, a BST thin film is formed on a platinum thin film, while at the same time, carbon compounds, which are produced when the BST thin film is formed, are removed. The solubility of carbon compounds in the supercritical carbon dioxide is very high, and yet the viscosity of the supercritical carbon dioxide is low. Accordingly, the carbon compounds are removable efficiently from the BST thin film. An oxide or nitride film may also be formed by performing oxidation or nitriding at a low temperature using water in a supercritical or subcritical state, for example.
Process and device for separation with variable-length chromatographic zones[March 30, 2004] 
A process for separating at least one component of a mixture in a set of closed-loop chromatographic columns is described, whereby the loop comprises at least one feedstock injection point, a raffinate draw-off point, an eluant injection point, and an extract draw-off point, in which a determination is made between an injection point and a draw-off point or vice-versa a chromatographic zone, and at the end of a given period of time, all of the injection points and draw-off points are shifted by the same number of columns or column sections and advantageously by one column or column section in a given direction that is defined relative to that of the flow of a main fluid that circulates through the loop. During the period, the shifting of different injection points and draw-off points of at least one column or column section is done at different times in such a way that the lengths of the zones that are defined by said different points are variable. The process is useful for the separation particularly of stereoisomers for pharmaceuticals.
In situ thermal processing of a coal formation to pyrolyze a selected percentage of hydrocarbon material[March 30, 2004] 
A coal formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. A mixture of hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a pyrolysis temperature. Heat may be allowed to transfer from one or more heat sources to a selected section of the formation such that superimposed heat from the one or more heat sources pyrolyzes a relatively large portion of hydrocarbon material within the selected section of the formation.
In situ thermal processing of a hydrocarbon containing formation using a selected production well spacing[March 30, 2004] 
A hydrocarbon containing formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. A mixture of hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a pyrolysis temperature. The mixture may be produced from the formation through production wells. A spacing between production wells, and operating conditions of production wells and heat injection wells, may allow the produced mixture to have a desired ratio of condensable hydrocarbons to non-condensable hydrocarbons.
In situ thermal processing of a coal formation in reducing
environment[March 30, 2004] 
A coal formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. A mixture of hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a pyrolysis temperature. A high hydrogen partial pressure within the formation may allow for hydrogenation of formation fluid within the formation. In addition, hydrogen, from produced formation fluid or from another source, may be used to hydrogenate produced fluid in a surface hydrogenation unit. The mixture produced from the formation may have a relatively high hydrogen partial pressure, and a large portion of the pressure within the formation may be attributable to hydrogen partial pressure.
Pressure processing device[March 30, 2004] 
A pressure processing device including a vessel having a body and an opening/closing member. A seal member is provided on a joining surface between the body and the opening/closing member, and a non-sliding joining surface is provided which is not slidably moved when the member is opened and closed. A device is provided including a diaphragm for housing an object to be processed, and a fluid introducing passage to the vessel provided so that a greater part of a fluid flowing into the vessel flows into the diaphragm. The diaphragm can be formed of heat insulating material, and a filter can be provided for removing particles installed on the side of the diaphragm into which a fluid flows. A plate having a labyrinth construction can be provided for trapping particles by parts on a surface thereof. A pressure processing device in which an object may be washed is also provided.
Methods for isolating polyhydroxyalkanoates from plants[March 23, 2004]
Methods are provided for separating polyhydroxyalkanoates ("PHAs") from plants, such as transgenic oil crop plants. The methods advantageously permit both the oil and the PHAs to be recovered from the plant biomass. To isolate the PHAs, in one embodiment, a biomass derived from an oil crop plant is pre-processed, for example by grinding, crushing or rolling. The oil then is extracted from the biomass with a first solvent in which the oil is soluble and in which the PHAs are not highly soluble to remove the oil. The biomass then can be extracted with a second solvent in which the PHA is soluble, to separate the PHA from the biomass. Alternatively, the PHA-containing biomass is treated with a chemical or biochemical agent, such as an enzyme, to chemically transform the PHA into a PHA derivative. The PHA derivative then is separated from the mixture using, for example, a physical separation process such as distillation, extraction or chromatography. Advantageously, using the method, the plant oils, the PHAs and PHA derivatives can be recovered and purified on a large scale from oil containing plants such as transgenic oil crop plants.
Methods and compositions for detection of disease[March 23, 2004]
The present invention is directed to methods and compositions for detection of target analytes, comprising proteins and nucleic acids, in multiple cellular compartments. Preferred embodiments comprise the use of complement-mediated assays. Methods and compositions for monitoring multiple stages of disease and infection are presented.
Reducing concentration of organic materials with substituted cyclodextrin compound in polyester packaging materials[March 23, 2004]
Volatile organic compound or other materials are produced in the thermoplastic manufacture of thermoplastic polyester beverage containers. Such materials can be eluted into beverages such as carbonated beverages, sparkling or still water from the polyester. Such thermoplastic polyester resins can be manufactured with a substituted cyclodextrin material that can prevent the formation of, or react with, and absorb volatile by-products during the formation of thermoplastic preforms or containers from the thermoplastic pellet or chip. Further, as the preform is blown into a polyester container, the active materials of the invention prevent the generation of additional undesirable volatile materials. Lastly, the scavenger material can act as a barrier that prevents transport of materials from the exterior of the container into the container contents. Hydrothermal treatment system and method[March 23, 2004]
In addition to the contactor and reactor arrangement (10, 83), a hydrothermal treatment system (60) includes an effluent stream splitting arrangement (86) for receiving hydrothermal reaction effluent and splitting this effluent to produce two separate effluent streams. These separated effluent streams are used to heat at least a water stream and first reactant material stream before these streams are injected into the contactor and reactor arrangement (10, 83). A first split effluent heat exchange arrangement (81) places one split effluent stream in a heat exchange relationship with the water input to the contactor and reactor arrangement (10, 83). A second split effluent heat exchange arrangement (79, 80) places the other split effluent stream in a heat exchange relationship with both the first reactant material and the water input to the contactor and reactor arrangement (10, 83).
Method and installation for setting in adsorbed state on a porous support active compounds contained in a product[March 23, 2004]
The invention concerns a method and an installation for setting in adsorbed state, on a porous support, compounds contained in a product comprising a first step which consists in extracting the compounds by contacting the product with at least a solvent at supercritical pressure to obtain a mixture of extracts and solvent. The method is characterized in that it comprises a second step which consists in eliminating the water contained in the mixture of extracts and solvent, adjusting the temperature and pressure conditions so as to obtain, a first phase consisting of solvent in gaseous state and a second phase consisting of a mixture of liquids formed of solvent and extracts of the products; causing said two phases to trickle through a porous support adapted to adsorb the extracts; vaporizing the solvent contained in the second phase.
Capillary column sealing technique[March 23, 2004]
A method and apparatus for creating a fluid tight seal between a capillary column and a connector. The method and apparatus are easy to employ and do not require the use of screws, ferrules, or additional tools. The method can be used for any capillary tubing as well as for megabore and microbore columns and tubing. In the method, a length of auxiliary tubing is placed over the outside of tubing requiring a fluid tight seal, such as a capillary column. After the capillary column is inserted into the connector, the length of auxiliary tubing is press-fit into the connector creating a secondary fluid tight seal. The auxiliary tubing provides additional mechanical stability during mechanical vibration and dramatically increases the tensile force required to compromise the fluid seal. This method can be used for many types of chromatography including gas chromatography and liquid chromatography. A connector assembly and fluid tight seal assembly are also disclosed.
In situ thermal processing of a coal formation leaving one or more selected unprocessed areas[March 23, 2004]
A coal formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. A mixture of hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a pyrolysis temperature. An unpyrolyzed section may be left between two substantially pyrolyzed sections to inhibit subsidence of the formation.
Buffer tube design for easy and reliable access in mid-span[March 16, 2004] 
The present invention is directed to a novel construction of buffer tubes for fiber optic cables which offers a way to access the optical fibers inside a buffer tube while reducing the risk of damaging the fibers, as sometimes occurs when cutting the outer layer of the buffer tube. A buffer tube for use in a fiber optic cable of the present invention comprises a tube having a tube wall, the wall having an inside and outside surface, wherein an inner portion of tube wall, nearest the inside surface, is made of a material having a higher notch-sensitivity than an outer portion of the tube wall nearest the outside surface.
Non-contact electroactive polymer electrodes[March 16, 2004]
The invention relates to systems and methods for electrically communicating with an electroactive polymer using one or more electrodes that do not contact the polymer. A non-contact electrode communicates charge to or from a portion of the polymer, typically through a medium. For example, the medium may include air, a vacuum, or a specialized gas that facilitates transfer of charge between the electrode and the polymer. The charge may include positive or negative ions or electrodes and may act to actuate the polymer, or diminish actuation applied to polymer in one or more specific polymer portions.
Spray member and method for using the same[March 16, 2004]
A process chamber assembly for use with a substrate and a flow of process fluid includes a vessel and a spray member. The vessel defines a chamber. The spray member includes at least one spray port formed therein adapted to distribute the flow of process fluid onto the substrate in the chamber. The spray member is operative to rotate about a rotational axis relative to the vessel responsive to a flow of the process fluid out of the spray member through the at least one spray port.
Spray member and method for using the same[March 16, 2004]
A process chamber assembly for use with a substrate and a flow of process fluid includes a vessel and a spray member. The vessel defines a chamber. The spray member includes at least one spray port formed therein adapted to distribute the flow of process fluid onto the substrate in the chamber. The spray member is operative to rotate about a rotational axis relative to the vessel responsive to a flow of the process fluid out of the spray member through the at least one spray port.
Electrospray ionization device[March 9, 2004]
An electrospray ionization device is provided that includes one or more electrospray needles and an ion sampling device. Each needle has a distal end for receiving a sample, a tip for spraying the sample in fluid communication with the distal end, and an electrical contact for contacting at least some portion of sample therein. The ion sampling device has an entrance, an exit, and an interior in fluid communication with the entrance and the exit, and is located in proximity to the tip or tips of the one or more electrospray needles. The entrance defines an opening that has a larger area than an opening defined by the exit. The ion sampling device also has a counter-electrical contact. The electrospray ionization device further comprises means for generating an electrical potential difference between the counter-electrical contact and the electrical contact(s) of the one or more electrospray needles.
Dispersible compositions containing L-DOPA ethyl ester[March 9, 2004]
The present invention relates to a dispersible pharmaceutical composition comprising a therapeutically effective amount of L-DOPA ethyl ester, a therapeutically effective amount of a decarboxylase inhibitor, a filler, a disintegrant, and a lubricant. The present invention also provides a method of preparing the pharmaceutical composition described herein.
Vitreoretinal tamponades based on fluorosilicone fluids[March 9, 2004]  Fluorosilicone fluids useful as high-density fluid ocular tamponades and methods of producing, purifying and using the fluorosilicone fluids in an ocular surgical procedure for retinal treatment.
Mechanically reinforced highly porous low dielectric constant films[March 9, 2004]
A porous medium, such as a low dielectric constant film, can be made into an aggregate material to provide increased mechanical strength on a temporary basis. This can be achieved by, for example, a permeable modification treatment of the porous medium. By introduction of a secondary component into the void fraction of the porous medium, the mechanical properties are temporarily improved such that a porous film has mechanical characteristics similar to those of a much stiffer film. Methods in accordance with the present invention permit effective processing of highly porous interlayer dielectric (ILD) materials in a Cu damascene interconnect technology. Once a process operation such as a Cu chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) process, which requires greater mechanical strength than that provided by the porous film alone, is completed, the secondary component can be removed by methods such as displacement or dissolution.
Method and system for processing substrate[March 9, 2004]
A method and system for processing a substrate includes performing a wet process by supplying a working liquid to a substrate in a wet processing apparatus, transferring the substrate in a non-dry state from the wet processing apparatus to a drying apparatus, and subjecting the substrate to a supercritical drying by a supercritical fluid in the drying apparatus.
Thermal method and apparatus[March 9, 2004]
A thermal method for studying chemical responses, such as catalyzed polymerization reactions that includes the following three steps. The first step is to flow a chemical substance through a conduit, the conduit being in thermal communication with an electrical conductor, the electrical conductor being co-linear with the conduit, the electrical resistance of the electrical conductor being a function of the temperature of the electrical conductor. A length of stainless steel tubing can be used as both the conduit and the conductor. The second step is to flow electricity through the electrical conductor during the first step. The third step is to measure the electrical resistance of the electrical conductor during the second step to determine any change in the temperature of the conduit caused by a response of the chemical substance. An apparatus for studying chemical reactions that includes: a first conduit, the first conduit being an electrical conductor, the first conduit having a first end and a second end, the electrical resistance of the first conduit being a function of the temperature of the first conduit; a source of electricity, the source of electricity in electrical communication with the first conduit so that electricity can be flowed through the first conduit; a volt meter in electrical communication with the first conduit so that the voltage measured by the volt meter is an indication of the temperature of the first conduit.
Absorbent articles[March 9, 2004]
An absorbent article containing a composite mixture of absorbent macroporous particles and binder particles. Preferably, the absorbent macroporous particles are those having a macroporous structure which allow for the rapid flow of liquid therein, e.g., aerogels, xerogels, cryogels, or mixtures thereof. The absorbent articles produced thereby are preferably thin and lightweight, but maintain an ample rate of absorption allowing for a more rapid uptake of higher volumes of liquids.
Electrochemiluminescent reaction utilizing amine-derived reductant [March 9, 2004]
The present invention relates to a composition suitable for use in an ECL assay wherein electromagnetic radiation emitted by the composition is detected. The composition includes an amine or amine moiety which, when oxidized by exposure to an effective amount of electrochemical energy, forms a strong reducing agent in the composition; and an electrolyte capable of functioning as a medium in which an ECL moiety and the amine or amine moiety can be oxidized by exposure to electrochemical energy.
In situ thermal processing of a hydrocarbon containing formation with heat sources located at an edge of a formation layer[March 9, 2004]
A hydrocarbon containing formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. A mixture of hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a pyrolysis temperature. Heat sources within a relatively thin layer of hydrocarbon material may be positioned in a staggered pattern near to edges of the layer so that superposition of heat from the heat sources allows a large percentage of the layer to reach a desired temperature
Process for extracting oleanolic acid from plant material [March 2, 2004]
A process for extracting oleanolic acid from plant material is disclosed. Dried plant material is provided and an extraction process is carried out with a non-halogenated polar to medium polar solvent. The resulting solution that contains oleanolic acid is separated from the plant material and the solvent is removed using cooling, vacuum-evaporation or other techniques. A precipitate is formed that contains mostly oleanolic acid. Subsequent purification steps to provide highly purified oleanolic acid include washing techniques, re-crystallization techniques or the use of chromatography.
Process for blending fluids of widely differing viscosities [March 2, 2004] 
A process is provided for blending two fluids having widely differing viscosities, such that the ratio of the two viscosities is at least 10,000:1. The low viscosity fluid is injected into the high viscosity fluid as it flows through a conduit, such that the low viscosity fluid is at least 30% by weight of the total weight of the low viscosity fluid and the high viscosity fluid. The two fluids are then forwarded to a second conduit containing a first set of static mixing elements providing a fluid shear rate in excess of 0.57 sec.sup.-1. The two fluids are then further forwarded to a third conduit containing a second set of static mixing elements of a larger diameter than the first set, providing a fluid shear rate in excess of 0.20 sec.sup.-1. Within the third conduit the two fluids form a homogeneous blend.
In situ thermal processing of a coal formation using a relatively slow heating rate [March 2, 2004]  A coal formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. A mixture of hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a pyrolysis temperature. Heat input into the formation may be controlled to raise a temperature of the formation at a selected rate.
Method of refrigeration with enhanced cooling capacity and efficiency [March 2, 2004] 
This invention relates to a refrigeration method and processes that employ a nontoxic and environmentally benign, oil-free refrigerant in a novel vapor-compression thermodynamic cycle that includes a means for enhancing cooling capacity and efficiency. A means of controlling of the process conditions and flow of the refrigerant are provided. The refrigerant in the invention in used in a transcritical cycle.
Nuclear magnetic resonance analysis of multiple samples[February 24, 2004]
A Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) probe device (20) is disclosed. NMR probe device (20) includes a plurality of detection coils (30, 40) each operable to detect a signal from a corresponding one of a plurality of samples (34, 44) undergoing NMR analysis. Also included is a plurality of tuning circuits (31, 41, 38, 48) each coupled to one of detection coils (30, 40) to tune the one of the detection coils (30, 40) to a corresponding resonant frequency for the NMR analysis of the corresponding one of the samples. An electromagnetic shield (22) is positioned between a first one of the detection coils (30, 40) and a second one of the detection coils (30, 40) to isolate the first one of the detection coils (30, 40) and the second one of the detection coils (30, 40) from each other.
Antibacterial composition having xanthorrizol [February 24, 2004]
An antibacterial composition having xanthorrizol is provided. The xanthorrizol is prepared by obtaining crude extract having antibacterial activity from Curcuma xanthorriza Roxb. lysate by the aid of solvent extraction, supercritical fluid extraction, microwave extraction or ultrasonic extraction; applying the crude extract to chromatography to obtain active fraction; acetylation of the active fraction to change its polarity and applying to chromatography to isolate an acetylated single compound; and, deacetylation of the acetylated single compound to give xanthorrizol having antibacterial activity. Since xanthorrizol has potential antibacterial activity over a broad spectrum of microorganisms under a wide range of temperature, it can be practically applied to antibacterial agent, tooth paste, oral cleanser, chewing gum, soap and cosmetics which require the antibacterial activity.
Gel catalysts and process for preparing thereof[February 24, 2004]
A gel composition substantially contained within the pores of a solid material for use as a catalyst or as a catalyst support in dehydrogenation and dehydrocyclization processes.
Electrocatalytic enhancement with catalyst-modified carbon-silica composite aerogels[February 24, 2004]
An electrically conductive composite is provided having a mesoporous architecture that improves the accessibility of a nanoscopic catalyst, supported on conductive carbon, to a mass-transported reactant, or substrate, thereby leading to enhanced catalytic activity. In particular, the composite is useful for a new class of fuel-cell electrode architectures based on a composite aerogel that improves the accessibility of a carbon-supported Pt electrocatalyst to methanol (MeOH), leading to higher MeOH oxidation activities than observed at the native carbon supported Pt electrocatalyst. The composite comprises a nanoscopic Pt electrocatalyst, a carbon black electron-conducting support, and a silica aerogeCompressed fluid formulation containing electroluminescent material[February 24, 2004]
An imaging composition comprises a mixture of a fluid and a functional material; wherein the fluid is compressed and the functional material is an electroluminescent material which is dissolved, dispersed and/or solubilized in the compressed fluid; and wherein the mixture is thermodynamically stable or thermodynamically metastable or both.
Apparatus for permitting transfer of organic material from a donor web to form a layer in an OLED device[February 24, 2004]
Apparatus for transferring organic material from a donor web onto a substrate to form a layer of organic material on one or more OLED devices including a web of donor material; first and second fixtures and a structure for applying fluid to a chamber to containing the fixtures to apply pressure to the non-transfer surface of the donor web so as to ensure the position of the donor web relative to the substrate; the first fixture including a transparent portion located in relationship to the non-transfer surface of the donor web to permit transmission of radiation through such transparent portion to the non-transfer surface of the donor web so that heat will be produced and the organic material will transfer from the donor web to the substrate.
Apparatus for permitting transfer of organic material from a donor to form a layer in an OLED device[February 24, 2004]
Apparatus for permitting the transfer of organic material from a donor onto a substrate to form a layer of organic material on one or more OLED devices, comprising a first fixture arranged to support the donor and substrate in a relationship relative to one another whereby there will be either a separation between portions of the substrate and the donor, or the substrate and donor will be in contact, and wherein organic material will be transferred onto portions of the substrate; a second fixture aligned with and engaging the first fixture to clamp the donor and substrate and forming a chamber relative to a non-transfer surface of the donor; means for supplying a fluid to the chamber to apply pressure to the non-transfer surface of the donor so as to ensure the position of the donor relative to the substrate; and the first fixture including a transparent portion located in relationship to the non-transfer surface of the donor to permit transmission of radiation through such transparent portion to the non-transfer surface of the donor so that heat will be produced and the organic material will transfer from the donor to the substrate.
Manufacturing porous cross-linked polymer monoliths[February 17, 2004] Highly cross-linked, maroporous/mesoporous polymer monoliths are prepard using supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO.sub.2) as the solvent and porogen for the polymerisation of monomers having more than one polymerisable group, at a monomer concentration in CO.sub.2 of more than 40 vol %. The procedure allows the direct formation of dry, solvent-free, macroporous/mesoporous cross-linked monoliths with large surface area and well-controlled pore size distribution.
Drug delivery systems for photodynamic therapy[February 17, 2004]
The invention is generally related to the field of photodynamic therapy by use of photosensitizers and stabilized formulations of the photosensitizers. These formulations may be used to deliver a photosensitizer as a pharmaceutical, agricultural, or industrial agent. The photosensitizer containing formulations and compositions of the invention comprise one or more block copolymers. Furthermore, the invention relates to processes for the production of, and application of, said formulations and compositions as photosensitizer drug delivery systems.
Synthetic fiber nonwoven web and method [February 17, 2004]
A nonwoven web and method of preparing a novel nonwoven web of synthetic fiber are disclosed. An aqueous solution amide crosslinked synthetic precursor polymer is extruded under defined conditions through a plurality of die orifices to form a plurality of threadlines. The threadlines are attenuated with a defined primary gaseous source to form fiber under conditions of controlled macro scale turbulence and under conditions sufficient to permit the viscosity of each threadline, as it leaves a die orifice and for a distance of no more than about 8 cm, to increase incrementally with increasing distance from the die, while substantially maintaining uniformity of viscosity in the radial direction, at a rate sufficient to provide fiber having the desired attenuation and mean fiber diameter without significant fiber breakage. The attenuated threadlines are dried with a defined secondary gaseous source. The resulting fibers are deposited randomly on a moving foraminous surface to form a substantially uniform web. The moving foraminous surface is positioned about 10 to about 100 cm from the last gaseous source to contact the threadlines. The fibers have a mean fiber diameter in the range of about 0.1 to 30 .mu.m and are substantially free of shot. The attenuating and drying steps are carried out under conditions of controlled macro scale turbulence.
Microfibrillated articles comprising hydrophillic component[February 17, 2004]
Described are hydrophilic fibrillated articles that include melt-processable polymer and hydrophilic component such as hydrophilic surfactant or hydrophilic polymer, as well as methods of preparing such articles.
Apparatus and method of material deposition using compressed fluids[February 17, 2004]
A system and method of depositing a functional material on a receiver is provided. The system includes a chamber containing fluid in a compressed state. The fluid includes a solvent and suspension of the functional material to be deposited on the receiver. The chamber has a controllable nozzle for the ejection of a stream of the fluid toward the receiver. The system also includes a controllable platform for locating and orienting the receiver with respect to the controllable nozzle and a controller operably connected to the controllable nozzle and the controllable platform that controls the ejection of the compressed fluid through the controllable nozzle and the location of the receiver with respect to the controllable nozzle. The functional material becomes free of the solvent prior to the functional material contacting the receiver. High-pressure drying apparatus, high-pressure drying method and substrate processing apparatus [February 17, 2004]
Liquid for prevention of substrate drying is supplied into a processing chamber so that a pool of the liquid is created as an anti-drying atmosphere in advance inside a processing chamber, and substrates, as they are dipped in the pool, are kept on stand-by in a substrate board. In this manner, air drying of the substrates which are kept on stand-by is prevented. When the number of the substrates in the substrate board reaches a certain number, the anti-drying atmosphere is removed from the processing chamber, which is followed by introduction of an SCF into the processing chamber and supercritical drying (high pressure drying) of all of the plurality of substrates inside the processing chamber, namely, batch supercritical drying.
Chemical fluid deposition method for the formation of metal and metal alloy films on patterned and unpatterned substrates[February 10, 2004]
Methods are described for depositing a film or discontinuous layer of discrete clusters, of material (e.g., metals, metal mixtures or alloys, metal oxides, or semiconductors) on the surface of a substrate, e.g., a patterned silicon wafer, by i) dissolving a precursor of the material into a supercritical or near-supercritical solvent to form a supercritical or near-supercritical solution; ii) exposing the substrate to the solution, under conditions at which the precursor is stable in the solution; and iii) mixing a reaction reagent into the solution under conditions that initiate a chemical reaction involving the precursor, thereby depositing the material onto the solid substrate, while maintaining supercritical or near-supercritical conditions. The invention also includes similar methods for depositing material particles into porous solids, and films of materials on substrates or porous solids having material particles deposited in them. The invention also covers methods of preparing a plated substrate by depositing a catalytic layer followed by a plating layer. Microencapsulated delivery system for high viscosity fluids[February 10, 2004]
 Disclosed is a process for producing powders from high viscosity fluids including mixing a mixture comprising a high viscosity fluid and at least one absorbing agent until a dry dispersion is produced; combining, under shear, a combination of the dry dispersion with a naturally derived oil having a melting point at least about 110.degree. F.; and granulating the combination into a powder. Also disclosed are pharmaceutical compositions that include a high viscosity fluid, at least one absorbing agent; and a naturally derived oil with a melting point at least about 110.degree. F., together with sustained-release embodiments of such compositions.
Method and apparatus for manufacturing sinter, method for measuring concentration of plasticizer, evaluation method, and evaluation apparatus[February 10, 2004]
 A method for selectively and rapidly extracting/removing a plasticizer from a compact such as a green laminate that is produced at a certain point in the process of manufacturing a multilayer ceramic capacitor. Carbon dioxide is introduced into a pressure chamber in which the green laminate has been placed, and the temperature and the pressure of the pressure chamber are set to 40.degree. C. and 10 MPa, respectively, so that the pressure chamber is filled with a supercritical carbon dioxide. The plasticizer is extracted/removed from the green laminate by using the supercritical carbon dioxide. Then, a de-binder step and a baking step are performed in an ordinary manner. By performing the de-plasticizer process of selectively extracting/removing the plasticizer before the de-binder step, it is possible to suppress the formation of a graphite-like substance even if the temperature is increased rapidly in the subsequent de-binder step and the baking step. Therefore, the manufacturing yield or the performance of the product from will not be reduced.
In situ thermal processing of a hydrocarbon containing formation to produce a hydrocarbon condensate[February 10, 2004]
 A hydrocarbon containing formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. Hydrocarbons, H.sub.2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Heat may be applied to the formation to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a pyrolysis temperature. Heat input into the formation may be controlled to raise a temperature of the formation at a selected rate.
Twin screw extruder with conical non-parallel converging screws [February 10, 2004]
An improved twin screw extruder device (14) is provided which is capable of producing a wide variety of high quality extrudates having greatly varying final properties, without the need for extensive machine modifications. The extruder (14) includes a barrel (16) together with a co-rotating twin screw assembly (22). The assembly (22) is made up of a pair of screws (50, 52) having central, tapered shafts (54, 56) equipped with outwardly extending helical flighting (58, 60); the screws (50, 52) are non-parallel and are positioned so that the flighting (58, 60) thereof is intercalated along the length of the screws (50, 52). The fighting is of specialized configuration and tapers along the length of the screws (50, 52) preferably at an angle of taper different than that of the shafts (54, 56); moreover, the width of the outer flighting surfaces (70, 72) increases along the length of the shafts (54, 56). This screw geometry defines a series of alternating upper and lower close-clearance high-pressure nip areas (78) defined by the flighting (58, 60) which serves to propel an extrudable mixture forwardly towards the outlet end (20) of the barrel (16). However, passageways (80) and kneading zones (82) are also defined between the screws (50, 52), which assures full mixing, shearing and cooking of the material. The extruder device (14) is capable of producing high density sinking aquatic feeds as well as expanded, low density products merely by changing the rotational speed of the screws (50, 52) together with appropriate temperature control. In another embodiment, a fluid extraction extruder (138) is provided having a specialized extruder head (140) including an outer shell (144) and an inner, elongated, slotted sleeve (152).
High-pressure delivery system for ultra high purity liquid carbon dioxide[February 10, 2004]
 This invention relates to an improvement in a process and apparatus for delivering ultra high purity liquid carbon dioxide to a point of use at pressures above ambient without pumping. In the process a high purity carbon dioxide feed in gaseous or liquid form is charged to a vessel and at least partially solidified, i.e., converted to a solid phase. As the liquid is converted to a solid phase, additional liquid is added until the vessel is at least substantially filled with slush. Once filled, the slush or solid is isochorically heated, i.e., heated at constant volume whereby the solid phase carbon dioxide is converted to a liquid. Liquid, then, is withdrawn from the vessel at a desired pressure at a rate at which the solid phase carbon dioxide is converted to a liquid.
High surface area sol-gel route prepared hydrogenation catalysts[February 3, 2004]
This invention concerns novel compositions, useful as hydrogenation catalyst, said compositions comprising metals and metal ions such as ruthenium (Ru) or palladium (Pd) dispersed in and distributed throughout a matrix comprising an inorganic or silicon oxide network. The catalyst may be prepared by the sol-gel method; a solution of at least one catalytic metal compound is added to a solution of at least one metal alkoxide selected from Al, Ti, Nb, Zr, Ta, Si and other inorganic alkoxides, and then gelling the mixture. Promotors such as rhenium (Re), molybdenum (Mo) and tin (Sn) may be added. The catalyst may be used in the reduction of metallic acid or gamma-butyrolactone to tetrahydrofuran (THF) and 1,4-butanediol (BDO).
Automated sample collection in supercritical
fluidchromatography[February3, 2004]
A system for collection of liquid phase sample fractions from a supercritical fluid chromatography system is disclosed. The system has different ways of gathering the liquid phase into a collection chamber and provides for automated removal of liquid phase from a collection chamber into separate collection container. A separate pressure scheme is invoked upon the collection chambers to move liquid phase out of a chamber and into the separate collection container. In addition, the invention provides a renewal system for the collection chambers where each chamber returns to an uncontaminated stated by washing with a cleaning solution after removal of collected liquid phase. Spent cleaner from a chamber is purged using the pressure system into a waste stream for disposal.
Measuring the surface properties of polishing pads using ultrasonic reflectance[February 3, 2004]
The present invention provides a system and method for measuring the surface properties of polishing pads using noncontact ultrasonic reflectance. An ultrasonic probe is located over the polishing surface and configured to both transmit an ultrasonic signal to the polishing surface and receive a modified ultrasonic signal from the polishing surface without contacting the polishing surface. A subsystem coupled to the ultrasonic probe is configured to determine a surface property of the polishing pad from the modified signal.
Phosphate fluorosurfactants for use in carbon dioxide[February 3, 2004]
A method of removing water from a composition of matter comprises contacting a first composition of matter comprising water with a second composition of matter comprising: (1) at least one surfactant comprising at least one phosphate group and (2) a solvent comprising carbon dioxide, wherein at least a portion of the surfactant is soluble in the solvent, such that the at least one surfactant removes at least a portion of the water from the first composition
Process for the preparation of optically pure or enriched racemic tetralone[January 27, 2004] 
A process for producing substantially optically pure sertraline utilizes chromatographic separation on a solid stationary chiral phase of spherical clay particles having an interlayer containing an optically pure metal-organic complex, and a liquid mobile phase preferably containing at least methyl acetate. The liquid mobile phase is preferably free of acetonitrile. The process is operable at temperatures above 40.degree. C.
Polycosanols from Ericerus pela wax [January 27, 2004]
The present invention provides a novel method for the preparation of a unique profile of primary aliphatic alcohols, having 24 to 30 carbon atoms, from the wax secreted by the insect Ericerus pela. Included in the present invention is the composition of matter, referred to herein as "polycosanol" produced by the method of this invention. The polycosanol composition is comprised primarily of the four primary aliphatic alcohols, tetracosanol, hexacosanol, octacosanol and triacontanol. Further included in this invention is the use of said composition of matter for the prevention and treatment of obesity, syndrome X, diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, atherosclerotic complications, ischemia and thrombosis.
Powder formulation disintegrating system and method for dry powder inhalers[January 27, 2004] 
A disperser for dry powders which can be used with different dose systems, dose weights ranging from 2 to 25 mg and different types of powder formulation. In one embodiment, the disperser acts both as a de-agglomeration (disintegration; aerosolization) means and as an air classifier for especially adhesive mixtures. Only fine drug particles are emitted whereas the larger agglomerates and carrier crystals are retained by the disperser. Another embodiment enables time controlled release of carrier crystals in these mixtures. Yet another embodiment has optimized performance with spherical pellets, containing no carrier crystals. Other possible embodiments of the invention make it possible to control the total inhaler resistance and the powder deposition in the upper respiratory tract by means of the addition of a so-called sheath flow of clean air. Modifications also enable carrier retainment in the mouthpiece and elimination of the tangential flow component of the discharge cloud.
Fourier transform mass spectrometry of complex biological samples[January 20, 2004]
The present invention relates to methods for high information content (HIC) analysis or screening of complex biological systems using Fourier transform mass spectrometry (FTMS). The present methods are useful for analyzing complex biological mixtures containing both high molecular weight molecules (e.g., polynucleotides, proteins, polysaccharides) and low molecular weight molecules (e.g., oligonucleotides, peptides, lipids, oligosaccharides, steroid hormones, catabolic and metabolic intermediates) permit the elucidation of molecular differences between complex biological samples, and permit the identification of biologically active molecules (e.g. therapeutically active drugs, etc.).
Particle size reduction using supercritical materials[January 20, 2004] 
The present invention relates to a method of reducing particle size by the use of a supercritical gas, such as carbon dioxide or a refrigerant. The material is swollen by the supercritical gas at a high pressure. After the material has been allowed to swell under a high pressure, the pressure is rapidly dropped. When the external pressure is rapidly dropped, the material explodes as the supercritical gas absorbed into the material rapidly expands outward.
  Supercritical fluid fractionation process for phytosterol ester enrichment vegetable oils [January 13, 2004]
A two-step (two-stage) columnar supercritical fluid fractionation process enriches phytosterols and phytosterol esters in vegetable oils, particularly vegetable oils containing oryzanol and/or fatty acid or ferulic esters of phytosterols. The first stage is a deacidification and the second stage is a phytosterol enrichment. The method may be conducted in a continuous or semi-continuous mode of column operation and yields a product that is essentially free of residual objectionable or organic solvent.
Low dielectric constant STI with SOI devices [January 13, 2004]
Techniques of shallow trench isolation and devices produced therefrom are shown. The techniques of shallow trench isolation utilize foamed polymers, cured aerogels or air gaps as the insulation medium. Such techniques facilitate lower dielectric constants than the standard silicon dioxide due to the cells of gaseous components inherent in foamed polymers, cured aerogels or air gaps. Lower dielectric constants reduce capacitive coupling concerns and thus permit higher device density in an integrated circuit device. The shallow trench isolation structures are used on a variety of substrates including silicon-on-insulator (SOI) substrates and silicon-on-nothing (SON) substrates.
Golf ball compositions including microcellular materials and methods for making same [January 13, 2004]
This invention is directed to golf balls including one or more foamed, microcellular materials. The invention also encompasses methods of controlling or adjusting one or more material properties or the weight distribution of a golf ball, and methods of forming golf balls including such microcellular materials.
Process for treating textile substrates [January 13, 2004]
A process for treating a textile substrate, the process including the steps of providing a textile substrate; providing a treatment bath; entraining a transport material in the treatment bath wherein the transport material further comprises a treatment material dissolved or suspended therein and wherein the transport material is substantially immiscible with the treatment bath; and contacting the textile substrate with the transport material in the treatment bath to thereby treat the textile substrate with the treatment material in the transport material.
Work-up of distillation residues from the synthesis of toluene diisocyanate[January 6, 2004]
A process for working up distillation residues from the synthesis of tolylene diisocyanate by reaction of the distillation residues with water comprises reacting the TDI distillation residues with water in a continuous or semicontinuous process in a backmixed reactor in the presence of hydrolysate.
Supercritical fluid(SCF) silylation process[January 6, 2004]
A process of silylation of object surfaces using a mixture of a silylation agent in admixture with an inert liquified gas, such as carbon dioxide.
Use of non-alkalized cocoa solids in a drink [January 6, 2004]
The present invention is directed to a method of processing a fat-containing bean, e.g., cocoa beans, for producing solids comprising active polyphenols and/or fat-containing products, comprising extracting the fat to produce solids and fat-containing products. Additionally, the inventive method also provides cocoa compositions comprising at least one active polyphenol, wherein the concentration of the polyphenol(s) with respect to the nonfat solids is conserved with respect to the concentration of the active polyphenol(s) in the bean from which the compositions are derived.
Method of making porous biodegradable polymers [January 6, 20034
A method of making a porous biodegradable polymer is disclosed, which comprises (a) placing a biodegradable polymer and a solvent in a chamber; (b) adding a supercritical fluid to the chamber and maintaining the chamber at a predetermined temperature for a sufficient period of time to allow the supercritical fluid to dissolve into the biodegradable polymer with the help of the solvent; and (c) venting the supercritical fluid and the solvent by reducing the pressure in the chamber, thereby obtaining a porous biodegradable polymer.
Method and apparatus for printing, cleaning, and calibrating[January 6, 2004]
A method and apparatus for delivering solvent free marking material to a receiver is provided. A printhead includes a discharge device having an inlet and an outlet with a portion of the discharge device defining a delivery path. An actuating mechanism is moveably positioned along the delivery path. A material selection device has an inlet and an outlet with the outlet of the material selection device being connected in fluid communication to the inlet of the discharge device. The inlet of the material selection device is adapted to be connected to a pressurized source of a thermodynamically stable mixture of a fluid and a marking material, wherein the fluid is in a gaseous state at a location beyond the outlet of the discharge device. A calibration station is positioned relative to the printhead. Additionally, or alternatively, a cleaning station is positioned relative to the printhead.
 also provides a particulate product formed using the method.








　

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