Microwave-assisted extraction and quantitative analysis of high-density polyethylene pellets fortified with flavors.

Microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) has been shown to be an easy, rapid, accurate, quantitative, and precise component of an overall method for the quantitative analysis of flavor components formulated into high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pellets. Under optimized extraction conditions, MAE can be perform extraction of flavors from pellets within 1/2 h with flavor recoveries ranging from approximately 90% to 100%. The variability in the data expressed as percent relative standard deviation from gas chromatographic-mass selective detector analysis of targeted flavor components is always less than 5%, indicating a precise method. In addition, the major components identified in the flavor formulation prior to formulation into the HDPE pellets are the major components detected in the extraction, indicating an accurate determination. Thus, MAE can be readily recommended as an essential component of a high-volume approach to the quantitative determination of flavors formulated into HDPE pellets.

Ancient impact and aqueous processes at Endeavour Crater, Mars.

The rover Opportunity has investigated the rim of Endeavour Crater, a large ancient impact crater on Mars. Basaltic breccias produced by the impact form the rim deposits, with stratigraphy similar to that observed at similar-sized craters on Earth. Highly localized zinc enrichments in some breccia materials suggest hydrothermal alteration of rim deposits. Gypsum-rich veins cut sedimentary rocks adjacent to the crater rim. The gypsum was precipitated from low-temperature aqueous fluids flowing upward from the ancient materials of the rim, leading temporarily to potentially habitable conditions and providing some of the waters involved in formation of the ubiquitous sulfate-rich sandstones of the Meridiani region.