The secret behind OpenCEL’s phenomenal success in reducing biosolids volume is its patented FP (Focused Pulsed) technology. Inside a black box the size of a phone booth, pulses of high voltage electricity bombard waste as it flows between two electrodes. Typically, the bombardment lasts 20 to 100 microseconds. The bombardment breaks down the cell’s membrane, which then becomes permeable to small molecules. As these molecules penetrate cells, they swell, and the membranes rupture. The process is known as “electroporation” or “lysis.” OpenCEL holds 8 issued U.S. patents and additional IP covering Focused Pulsed equipment and its application to enhance biological conversion processes (U.S. Patents Issued: 5,695,650, 5,893,979, 6,030,538, 6,395,176, 6,491,820, 6,540,919, 6,709,594, 7,001,520).