Abstract (US 5647480, US5765341):
The technology describes a flexible pressure vessel useful for the shipment of hazardous samples. The pressure vessel is conformable and capable of withstanding high internal pressures of at least 75 kPa. Exceeding pressure differentials of 95 kPa as required in federal regulation 49 CFR 173.196 may be also be possible but additional testing is required. The package is especially cost-effective for the shipment of small quantities of hazardous samples and may meet the new Federal regulations for shipping of diagnostic and infectious samples.

Technology Benefits:
The technology has a number of advantages for shipping hazardous materials. First, the flexible pressure vessel and method of the invention create economic efficiencies that can allow samples to be shipped in small numbers. Using relatively inexpensive materials such as plastic films or plastic-coated woven and nonwoven materials, and adhesives, while employing conventional manufacturing practices, cost effective pressure vessels can be produced as supplemental packaging components. The pressure vessel can be stored flat until used and is less bulky than some other containers used for shipping hazardous samples. Further, absorbent material or cushioning foams may be placed in the vessel to provide an additional level of security. The technology also meets international transport requirements. The flexible pressure vessel is capable of withstanding an internal pressure load caused by the vessel's transport to an environment of lower pressure. When the vessel is transported by air, external pressure decreases as altitude increases and thus the pressure differential increases. The flexible pressure vessel was developed to withstand the pressure differentials encountered during air transport and set forth by regulations in 1996. It is expected that new air transport regulations set forth in 49 CFR 173.196 will also be met, but additional testing is required. Additionally, the flexible vessel normally is transparent to enable the sample to be visually inspected for tracking or safety purposes. The flexible pressure vessel therefore can enable indicia on the samples to be scanned by, for example, a bar-code reader. And after the flexible pressure vessel has served its purpose, only a minimum amount of packaging material requires disposal.

Technology Uniqueness:
The uniqueness of the flexible pressure vessel lies in the ability to withstand high internal pressures similar to a rigid pressure vessel but at a much lower cost, especially when shipping a small number of samples.

Intellectual Property Summary:
Patent No. US 5647480
Patent No. US 5765341