| abstract |
Method for processing an article with a dense processing fluid in a processing chamber while applying ultrasonic energy during processing. The dense fluid may be generated in a separate pressurization vessel and transferred to the processing chamber, or alternatively may be generated directly in the processing chamber. A processing agent may be added to the pressurization vessel, to the processing chamber, or to the dense fluid during transfer from the pressurization vessel to the processing chamber. The ultrasonic energy may be generated continuously at a constant frequency or at variable frequencies. Alternatively, the ultrasonic energy may be generated intermittently. |