Small Company Category
Algal Turf Scrubber® (ATS™)
HydroMentia Inc.
Ocala, Florida
The Algal Turf Scrubber® (ATS™) is an algal production technology developed commercially as a water treatment system. The system offers unparalleled performance for low-level nutrient pollution control. At the ATS™ unit, polluted water is pulsed in waves across a sloped floway where the algal turf grows removing nutrient pollutants (nitrogen, phosphorus and carbon) from the water.
Algal biomass from the Algal Turf Scrubber® is harvested and processed into soil-enhancing compost, livestock feed, and soon biofuel. Regular recovery of the biomass maintains the algae in accelerated growth phase and provides sustainability. Today, algal biomass is seen as the most probable candidate for large-scale production of biofuels.
HydroMentia believes that the Algal Turf Scrubber® has the potential to change the way water is treated in the US. Combining water treatment services with biofuel production and carbon recovery, the Algal Turf Scrubber® contributes to the economy while protecting and restoring our natural environment.
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Medium Company Category
Heated Catalyst System for Control of Cooking Odors
Catalytic Combustion Corporation
Bloomer, Wisconsin
 The Heated Catalyst Device virtually eliminates the odors emitted to a room by a residential oven during the cooking process. A high surface area, low thermal mass catalyst breaks down the myriad of complex organic molecules that are released during the cooking of foods. The catalyst is comprised of a layered metallic foil coated with a high surface area aluminum oxide coating impregnated with precious metals. The precious metal selection and total loading were optimized to gain the best possible control of emissions from foods such as fish and greasy meats.
Infrared energy from an electric heating element is used to bring the catalyst to its operating temperature independently of the temperature set point for the appliance. All the internal components are contained in an assembly that is installed in the exhaust ducting from the cavity of a residential range, or oven. |
Large Company Category
Digital Precise Air Control System (D-PAC)
AAON
Tulsa, Oklahoma
"The Digital Precise Air Control (D-PAC) system combines a variable capacity scroll compressor, modulating humidity control, and return air bypass in a packaged rooftop unit to control both space temperature and space humidity with superior energy efficiency. The system can accurately control the temperature to +/- 1°F and the relative humidity to +/- 5%. The patented sequence of operation allows the unit to have reduced energy costs when compared to conventional temperature and humidity control systems."
 Mega Company Category
KOHLER Express™ Vanity
Kohler Co.
Kohler, Wisconsin
KOHLER Bathroom Vanities with Express installation system allows the vanity to be partially flat packed for easier transport and almost effortless assembly later in the bathroom. As the name implies, the Express installation system quickly and efficiently transforms a compact package into an elegant, stylish and durable vanity. This unique hinge design allows the vanity to be reduced significantly in size and conveniently flat packed. Efficient packaging enables the piece to fit easily into the trunk of a car and through a doorway, and the reduced size also provides retailers with a smaller box that eats up less stocking space and is easier for store clerks to handle. Assembly is remarkably straightforward and the vanity assembles relatively quickly without tools. The end result is a striking, sturdy piece that represents true design innovation. |
2008 NSPE New Product Award Winners >>
