Abstract:
A method for separating protein from plant or algae material is disclosed. The method comprises mixing the protein-containing material with a solvent, preferably water; extracting the protein-containing material at pH>7; and acidifying the mixture, thereby precipitating protein and fiber together. In some embodiments of the invention, the separation additionally comprises decanting the mixture to recover a protein/fiber solid; adding water to the protein/fiber solid; adding a predetermined quantity of base to the protein/fiber/water system, thereby precipitating fiber; separating the fiber from the protein in a decanter; and drying the protein solution. In other embodiments, the protein/fiber solid is processed directly, e.g. by being passed to an extruder. The use of the fiber as a carrier for the protein makes the inventive method more efficient than methods known in the art; in particular, the inventive method does not require the use of a high-g clarifier centrifuge.
Abstract:
A cement mix for preparation of a magnesium silico-phosphate cement (MSPC) with an altered hardening rate is provided. The cement mix comprises on the order of 1% of an [MF6]n− salt or acid. Upon addition of water, the mix produces a final set cement that has similar physical properties to those of a cement prepared from a mix lacking the additive, but with a significantly altered setting time. In some embodiments of the invention, the additive is provided in the form of a coating for the MgO component of the mix. In preferred embodiments, H2TiF6, Na2TiF6 and/or K2TiF6 are used as retarders, while K3AlF6 is used as an accelerant. Other embodiments use M′nMF6 compounds wherein M′ is an alkali metal, an alkaline earth metal, or H, and M is chosen from inter alia Ti (n=2), Zr (n=2), P (n=1), Al (n=3), and Sb (n=1).
Abstract:
A method for treating Moringa seeds is disclosed. A starting material comprising ground Moringa seeds, preferably seeds that have undergone a process to remove their oil, is contacted with water. The water is drained, and the Moringa seeds are then contacted with water a second time. The product may then be dried or passed to an extruder. The process almost completely removes the unpleasant bitter taste associated with Moringa seeds, but retains most of the protein content of the starting material. In contrast to methods known in the art, the method does not require adjustment of the pH or the use of any organic solvent. A composition comprising ground Moringa seeds that comprises at least 30% protein and has a glucosinolate concentration
Abstract:
A nontoxic antimicrobial chemical trap that comprises a film comprising an antimicrobial layer that comprises nanocrystalline cellulose (NCC) and an antimicrobial substance selected from the group consisting of MgO and Mg(OH)2. In some embodiments, the antimicrobial trap comprises at least one additional layer of NCC above or below said antimicrobial layer. Methods of preparation of the antimicrobial chemical trap and of articles coated thereby are disclosed, as well as methods of controlling microbial population by use of the antimicrobial chemical trap, are disclosed as well.
Abstract:
A water-soluble insert for use in joining pipes, made of a material comprising a salt selected from the group consisting of KCl, Na Cl, and mixtures thereof; and MgO. Upon addition of a small amount of water to the material, the MgO reacts with hygroscopic impurities in the chloride salt to provide a material with superior properties. The insert is cast from the material, in general by being placed on a form and compressed. Also disclosed is the use of the insert in joining the ends of two pipes, especially pipes made from thermoplastic. The insert is placed in the matching pipe ends, which are then welded. After the join is complete, water is flowed through the pipe, dissolving the insert.
Abstract:
A cement mix for preparation of a magnesium silico-phosphate cement (MSPC) with an altered hardening rate is provided. The cement mix comprises on the order of 1% of an [MF6]n− salt or acid. Upon addition of water, the mix produces a final set cement that has similar physical properties to those of a cement prepared from a mix lacking the additive, but with a significantly altered setting time. In some embodiments of the invention, the additive is provided in the form of a coating for the MgO component of the mix. In preferred embodiments, H2TiF6, Na2TiF6 and/or K2TiF6 are used as retarders, while K3AlF6 is used as an accelerant. Other embodiments use M′nMF6 compounds wherein M′ is an alkali metal, an alkaline earth metal, or H, and M is chosen from inter alia Ti (n=2), Zr (n=2), P (n=1), Al (n=3), and Sb (n=1).
Abstract:
A method for separating protein from plant or algae material is disclosed. The method comprises mixing the protein-containing material with a solvent, preferably water; extracting the protein-containing material at pH>7; and acidifying the mixture, thereby precipitating protein and fiber together. In some embodiments of the invention, the separation additionally comprises decanting the mixture to recover a protein/fiber solid; adding water to the protein/fiber solid; adding a predetermined quantity of base to the protein/fiber/water system, thereby precipitating fiber; separating the fiber from the protein in a decanter; and drying the protein solution. In other embodiments, the protein/fiber solid is processed directly, e.g. by being passed to an extruder. The use of the fiber as a carrier for the protein makes the inventive method more efficient than methods known in the art; in particular, the inventive method does not require the use of a high-g clarifier centrifuge.
Abstract:
A water-soluble insert for use in joining pipes, made of a material comprising a salt selected from the group consisting of KCl, Na Cl, and mixtures thereof; and MgO. Upon addition of a small amount of water to the material, the MgO reacts with hygroscopic impurities in the chloride salt to provide a material with superior properties. The insert is cast from the material, in general by being placed on a form and compressed. Also disclosed is the use of the insert in joining the ends of two pipes, especially pipes made from thermoplastic. The insert is placed in the matching pipe ends, which are then welded. After the join is complete, water is flowed through the pipe, dissolving the insert.