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SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D. C. 20549
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FORM 10-KSB
ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
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For the fiscal year ended Commission file number 0-16416
OCTOBER 31, 1998
ELECTROPURE, INC.
(FORMERLY, HOH WATER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION)
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
CALIFORNIA 33-0056212
(State or Other Jurisdiction (IRS Employer Identification No.)
of Incorporation or Organization)
23456 South Pointe Drive, Laguna Hills, California 92653
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (949) 770-9187
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: None
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share
(Title of Class)
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant (1) has filed all reports required
to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during
the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the Registrant was
required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing
requirements for the past 90 days. Yes [ ] No [X].
Indicate by check mark whether any director, officer, beneficial owner of more
than 10 percent of any class of equity securities of the Registrant failed to
file any reports required by Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934 on a timely basis during the most recent fiscal year. Yes [ X ] No [ ].
The aggregate market value of the voting stock held by non-affiliates of the
Registrant at April 16, 1999 was $3,593,963.
At April 16, 1999, 8,618,925 shares of the Registrant's stock were outstanding.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
NONE
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PART I
ITEM 1. BUSINESS
BUSINESS
Electropure, Inc. ("Electropure" or the "Company" - formerly, HOH Water
Technology Corporation) was organized in 1979 to design, develop, manufacture
and market the "EDI" series of patented electrodeionization water treatment
devices for commercial, residential, municipal, industrial and agricultural
applications. The original EDI was designed as a point-of-entry system to treat
the entire house or facility. However, lack of funds and high production costs
delayed development of this model. The Company subsequently developed a smaller
point-of-use model of the EDI technology aimed at the high purity water
treatment segment of the commercial and industrial water treatment markets. The
Company's current EDI product is marketed to original equipment manufacturers
("OEM's) as a specialized component for water treatment systems designed to
provide ultrapure water to market segments whose major customers include, but
are not limited to, semiconductor, pharmaceutical and cosmetic companies, as
well as laboratories and petrochemical companies.
The Company's current EDI design is able to desalt pre-treated (water filtered
and softened generally by reverse osmosis) tap water to a purity level exceeding
one megohm-cm (roughly less than 0.5 parts per million ("ppm") of total
dissolved solids ("TDS")) at a rate of 3 to 6 gallons per minute on demand.
Modularized designs (connecting additional modules in parallel formations)
increase a system's capacity exponentially to service installations requiring up
to hundreds of gallons per minute. In addition to its cost-effective operation,
a major environmental and competitive benefit of the EDI technology is that it
does not require the addition of salts or other chemicals for regeneration. Most
other competitive processes require the addition of these elements.
The Company began sales of light commercial/industrial water and waste water
treatment equipment in May, 1998. Included in the product line, which the
Company offers as its Hydro Components line of products, are high quality
sanitary heat exchangers, sample coolers for sterile steam and water, ion
exchange membranes for electrodialysis, electrodeposition, and electrochemical
separations.
In February, 1998, the Company acquired the rights to certain proprietary
membrane technology from Pennsylvania-based Hydro Components, Inc. See "Item 1 -
BUSINESS Acquisition of Intellectual Properties - Ion Exchange Membrane
Technology". The Company has begun a research project utilizing the acquired
technology to develop ion permeable membranes for use with its EDI product.
Successful development efforts regarding these membranes would allow the Company
to offer more cost-sensitive models of its EDI product to a broader range of
users for a wider range of uses.
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In October, 1997, the Company acquired an exclusive license to certain patent
and intellectual property rights involving laser light scattering techniques to
be utilized in the detection and monitoring of toxicants in drinking water. This
acquisition provides the basis for Electropure's proposed development of near
"real-time" drinking water monitoring systems primarily for municipal
applications. This technology and the EDI technology are not intended to be
integrated into one product. See "Item 1 - BUSINESS - Acquisition of
Intellectual Property - Multi-Angle Laser Light Scattering Instrumentation
Technology" and "BUSINESS - Laser Monitoring Division." See also "Item 3 - LEGAL
PROCEEDINGS."
ACQUISITION OF INTELLECTUAL PROPERTIES
EDI COMPONENTS
Effective August 5, 1997, the Company entered into a License Termination
Agreement with EDI Components ("EDI Components") terminating the July, 1992
agreements which granted EDI Components a security interest in and exclusive
manufacturing and marketing rights to the Company's patented water purification
technology. Pursuant to the termination agreement, 362,500 shares of the
Company's Common Stock, with an agreed value by the parties of $2.00 per share,
were issued to the investors of EDI Components in amounts commensurate with
their capital investment in such entity. The Company has agreed to issue
Additional Shares upon the Common Stock of the Company first having a per share
value for thirty consecutive trading days equal to or in excess each of $3.00,
$4.00 and $5.50 per share (each a "Trigger Value"). The aggregate value of such
Additional Shares shall equal $675,006, $675,012 and $674,982, respectively, for
a total additional value of $2,025,000. If all of the Additional Shares are
issued pursuant to the License Termination Agreement, the investors of EDI
Components will have received a total of 878,979 shares of the Company's Common
Stock, with an aggregate value equal to $2,750,000. The fair market value of the
Company's restricted Common Stock was $0.3136 per share on August 14, 1997, the
date on which the 362,500 shares were issued to the investors of EDI Components.
The Company issued an additional 566,409 shares of Common Stock, at $0.375 per
share, upon conversion of $200,000 in indebtedness, plus $12,404 in related
interest, on notes payable assumed by the Company from EDI Components. An
additional $10,000 principal loan, plus $1,620 in accrued interest, was assumed
by the Company and was paid in September, 1997 with the proceeds realized from
the sale of an additional 30,988 shares of Common Stock at $0.375 per share.
The License Termination Agreement provided for an extension, until October 1,
1997, on 95,400 warrants to purchase common stock granted to various investors
of EDI Components pursuant to the July, 1992 license agreement. As of October 1,
1997, all of such warrants were exercised at $0.50 per share, including 44,000
warrants which had been assigned to William Farnam, a Director of the Company,
and 40,000 warrants held by Floyd Panning, president of EDI. Mr. Panning also
exercised 10,000 warrants to purchase common stock previously issued to him in
February, 1993 at $0.50 per share as a bonus for services rendered. See "Item 10
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION - Employment Agreement."
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ION EXCHANGE MEMBRANE TECHNOLOGY
On February 17, 1998, the Company paid Hydro Components, Inc. ("HCI")
the sum of $200,000 under the terms of an Assignment Agreement to acquire the
rights to certain proprietary ion exchange membrane technology for use with its
EDI water treatment technology. Pursuant to the agreement HCI, a
Pennsylvania-based supplier of light commercial water and wastewater treatment
products, is to provide the Company with the know-how and technical support to
develop extruded membranes with ion exchange materials. A September 15, 1998
addendum to such agreement grants HCI a $65,000 bonus in the event efforts to
develop such membrane technology are successful.
MULTI-ANGLE LASER LIGHT SCATTERING INSTRUMENTATION TECHNOLOGY
On October 25, 1997, the Company issued 2,100,000 shares of its Common Stock to
Wyatt Technology Corporation ("Wyatt") as consideration for the transfer by
Wyatt of an exclusive worldwide license to certain intellectual property related
to drinking water monitoring technology. The agreement encompasses exclusive
patent rights, software, technical support, manufacturing services and other
know-how based on Wyatt's proprietary multi-angle laser light scattering
instrumentation and techniques to detect and monitor the presence of toxicants
(mutagens, carcinogens, and metabolic toxins) in fluid. The Company agreed to
register up to 630,000 of the shares issued to Wyatt to the end that a
sufficient number of shares may be sold by Wyatt to pay federal and state income
taxes on the transaction. Wyatt sold 150,000 of such shares in private
transactions in May, 1998 ostensibly for this purpose. Consequently, and in
accordance with the terms of the 1997 agreement, all remaining shares issued to
Wyatt must be held for a period of one year from the transaction date before
they may be sold.
The value of the 2,100,000 shares issued to Wyatt is reflected in the Company's
financial statements for the fiscal year ended October 31, 1997 as a $447,146
increase in acquired technology to be amortized over a five year period - the
remaining life of the primary patent covering the technology. The Company has
recorded amortization expense of $1,470 and $89,429 on the technology acquired
for the fiscal years ended October 31, 1997 and 1998, respectively. The
technology valuation, which was established through an independent appraisal,
utilized a weighted average calculation using the last trade prior to and
subsequent to the transaction date (October 25, 1997, a Saturday), resulting in
a $1.175 value per share. A 28% discount to such value was then applied to
115,000 of the shares the estimated number of shares which must be sold by Wyatt
to pay income taxes on the transaction. An 85% discount was applied to the
balance of the shares issued (1,985,000), which must be held for one year from
the date of the transaction. In summary, the appraisal concluded that the
115,000 and 1,985,000 shares were worth $97,290 and $349,856, respectively, for
a total value of $447,146.
Pursuant to the transfer agreement, the Company focused its initial research
efforts on applying the Wyatt technology in developing the instrumentation and
software to detect, in near "real-time," particulate materials (parasites and
other organisms such as bacteria, viruses, spores, etc.) in drinking water. In
May, 1998, the initial research phase proved, in a laboratory environment, a
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capability of the technology for identification and measurement of
Cryptosporidium and Giardia cysts. The Company has initiated further research
efforts based on these successful results. Under the agreement, Wyatt is to
provide technical support as well as various laboratory equipment and supplies
required for the research program. (See Item 3 - "Legal Proceedings.")
For a period of three years from the date of the transfer agreement, Wyatt will
manufacture and sell to the Company (at a price to be agreed upon) the
components required for any product developed by Electropure utilizing the
transferred technology. Thereafter, the Company may, at its option, manufacture
all such components (except an optical component to which Wyatt will retain all
rights), purchase them from others, or continue to purchase said components from
Wyatt under terms to be agreed upon. Pricing of the component parts, as well as
the optical product proprietary to Wyatt, will be dependent upon their design
and features.
Wyatt Technology Corporation owns 16.8% of the currently outstanding common
stock of the Company, with 10.3% of the voting control as of April 16, 1999.
THE MARKET FOR WATER PURIFICATION
Water is essential to life and potable water, that which is fit for human
consumption, is a necessity for which a market will always exist. Growing
population has increased demand for potable water just as the waste and
pollution created by the enlarging population has reduced nature's ability to
supply potable water. The United Nations focused attention on the world's water
problem in 1980 and allocated $300 billion to the development of solutions to
the problem. Beyond the need for water which is merely fit for human consumption
is the demand for "high purity" water which is usable for purposes other than
drinking, such as cleaning or industrial processing. Such water requires the
removal of contaminants which interfere with the intended use. In fact,
examination of municipal water use reveals that less than one percent is
actually used for human consumption. The remainder is used by industry,
irrigation, bathing, laundry, etc.. Enhanced treatment of such water at the
point of use, therefore, is an economically viable solution for compliance with
stringent standards imposed by users of high purity water. The EPA has studied
and is in favor of the point-of-use approach, provided that treatment equipment
meets its Generally Available Technology (GAT) criteria. According to a 1996
report by Environmental Business International, Inc., the San Diego-based market
research and consulting firm, the water/wastewater environmental services sector
in the United States will grow from its then annual level of $75 billion to $96
billion by the year 2000. The report projects this growth on the basis of two
expanding areas of the business: the expansion in the use of outsourcing for
industrial water and wastewater treatment activities, and the trend toward
privatization of municipal treatment facilities. The firm also sees an annual
growth of about five percent in the water treatment equipment and chemicals
market, which is currently around $18 billion a year and wherein the EDI
technology finds its market segment.
The market is currently growing at a steady annual rate annually and given the
general deterioration of the world's water supplies this growth is likely to
continue and expand as the cost of treatment falls. Advanced manufacturing
technologies and the tremendous expansion seen in electronics, pharmaceuticals
and bio-tech firms in the last decade alone, have been the precursors
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of an increased need for high purity process water and for water purification
equipment. The industry is in a major growth cycle and there are about 40 major
companies in the world active in supplying goods and services with an estimated
13,500 customers in the United States. Besides the U.S. patent, the Company
holds patents for the EDI technology in Austria, Belgium, France, Great Britain,
Luxembourg, Switzerland and West Germany.
CURRENT TECHNOLOGIES IN WATER PURIFICATION
Water purification is a relative term referring to removing selected, but not
all, of a limited number of contaminants depending on the expected use to be
made of the water. There are three general types of water purification
processes:
1. Physical processes which depend simply on physical properties of the
impurities, such as particle size, specific gravity and viscosity.
Examples of this type of process are reverse osmosis, distillation,
screening, sedimentation, filtration and gas transfer.
2. Chemical processes which depend on the chemical properties of an
impurity or utilize the chemical properties of added reagents.
Examples are ion exchange, electrodialysis, chlorination, coagulation
and precipitation.
3. Biological processes which utilize biochemical reactions to remove
soluble or colloidal organic impurities. Examples are biological
filtration and the activated sludge process.
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THE EDI TECHNOLOGY
The need to satisfy the increasing demand for high purity water in a variety of
industries can now be achieved through the Company's patented
electrodeionization process (EDI). The EDI design combines two well-established
water desalination technologies -- electrodialysis and ion exchange
deionization. Through this technique, dissolved salts can be removed at low
energy costs, and without the need for chemical regeneration; the result is high
quality water of multi-megohm/cm resistivity which can be produced continuously
at substantial flow rates.
The EDI module has been proved to be an effective new electrodeionization
process and can be used for a broad range of process applications, including the
supply of high water quality for the food and beverage industry, for
micro-electronics production, biomedical and laboratory use, pharmaceutical
compounders and for general industry. The advantages of having a dependable and
high quality water source which requires no chemical regeneration, coupled with
low operation and maintenance costs, makes the EDI process an attractive and
environmentally-safe alternative compared with other deionization processes.
The initial point-of-use module of the EDI technology is approximately 8 inches
wide, 11 inches deep and 20 inches in height. The product has no moving parts
and is capable of processing five (5) gallons of ultrapure water per minute. The
module is marketed to original equipment manufacturers (OEM's) of water
treatment equipment for incorporation into a point-of-use system complete with
pre-treatment components (such as reverse osmosis, filters, softeners, etc.),
power supply, and desired gauges and monitors. This system would then be
connected to the incoming water line at the point-of-use, to a drain line and to
an electrical source. This system is designed to service the small industry
users . For higher flow rate requirements, the existing EDI module has been
successfully combined in parallel formations to provide 5 - 25 gallons per
minute (GPM) of multi-megohm quality water. Larger systems, which produce 25 -
100 GPM, would be marketed to medium scale users. The Company plans to design a
higher capacity version of the EDI module which will be intended to provide
volumes of high purity water at 15 GPM or more from a single module. The Company
believes that this model, if it can be developed, will become the primary
product line for desired high purity flow rates in the 25-100 GPM market
segment.
EDI 5 GPM MODULE
[GRAPHIC]
The Company believes that the major advantage of the EDI technology over systems
utilizing ion exchange only is the efficient recharging of the ion exchange
resins without the extensive use of costly caustic or acid chemicals which add
excessive contamination to the system's waste water.
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The Company believes that the primary advantage of the EDI technology over
products using distillation and reverse osmosis is its ability to utilize
electrical and chemical properties of the water molecule and of naturally
occurring salts, instead of merely physical properties, in separating water from
the dissolved mineral ions. The EDI can operate without booster pumps or holding
tanks and the EDI module achieves a high flow rate with relatively smaller sized
and less expensive equipment.
The advantage of the EDI technology over conventional electrodialysis is the
combination of various technologies, all of which are individually workable, but
which reinforce each other in the EDI technology. EDI technology requires less
maintenance than existing systems but requires more stringent pretreatment of
entry water. Maintenance is a major problem with conventional electrodialysis
and reverse osmosis units, particularly the clogging of membranes. Thus, the
advantages of the EDI technology system, as compared to some conventional water
treatment systems, include the following:
- the EDI technology system operates with variable local water
pressure and no booster pumps are required.
- lower maintenance since nothing is consumed except small amounts of
electricity. If at all necessary, chemicals are added less
frequently than existing equipment.
- large flow rate relative to its size, as compared to conventional
systems that purport to treat the same flow rates.
The Company's belief as to the expected advantages of the EDI technology are
based upon its experience with prototypes, pilot production units, products sold
by its former licensee, EDI Components, and the approximately 90 EDI products
sold by the Company through October 31, 1998. The point-of-use EDI technology
incorporates a number of design improvements to the original EDI patent. In
October 1990, U.S. Patent No. 4,964,970, was granted on certain of these
developments. The Company intends to conduct continued product development on
the EDI technology, with an eye toward improving the technology while reducing
manufacturing costs, and allowing the Company to expand its market reach.
Development of new technologies for manufacture, such as the EDI technology, is
frequently subject to unforeseen expenses, difficulties and complications and in
some cases such development cannot be accomplished. In the opinion of
management, the EDI technology has demonstrated positive attributes, but any
such attributes must be balanced against the lack of any substantial operating
experience, the existence of established companies in the water purification
field with greater financial resources, experience and developed products, and
unknown technological difficulties. Consequently, no assurances can be given as
to if and when the product discussed above will be successfully marketed and
sold.
Similar risks will apply to the use of any product which may be developed using
the technology acquired from Wyatt and/or Hydro Components.
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THE HYDRO COMPONENTS LINE
The Company began offering for sale its Hydro Components line of products in
May, 1998. The Hydro Components line includes water and wastewater treatment
products for light commercial/industrial markets such as optical and lens
manufacturers; sterile steam samplers for pharmaceutical and biotechnical firms;
industrial steam samplers for power plants, pulp and paper mills and refineries;
high-flow deionizers sold through catalog houses for humidification, rinse
water, cooling water and small laboratories. The Hydro Components line also
offers solvent-based coated membranes which are sold to original equipment
manufacturers of stabilizing equipment for automotive and appliance painting.
MARKETING
The EDI point-of-use module was developed for the ultrapure light industrial
segment of the water treatment market, i.e., pharmaceuticals, electronics,
cosmetics, medical and research laboratories. The Company intends to sell these
products through manufacturers of commercial water treatment equipment in the
United States and in foreign countries where the Company's patent is in force or
which have reciprocal patent treaties. The Company (and EDI Components) entered
into certain licensing arrangements with two water treatment equipment companies
(see Item 1 - "BUSINESS - Acquisition of Intellectual Properties - EDI
Components"). The Company has patents for its EDI technology in the following
foreign countries: Austria, Belgium, France, Great Britain, Luxembourg,
Switzerland and West Germany.
ULTRAPURE MARKET. The Company believes that a substantial market
currently exists for EDI technology in the commercial and light industrial
market sector where ultrapure water is a necessity in manufacturing and where
chemically pure water is demanded for laboratory uses. The electro-regeneration
feature of the EDI technology is considered a significant advantage over
existing demineralization technology. The existing EDI module will provide
ultrapure water at a rate of 1/2 to 5 gallons per minute (and higher volumes in
parallel formations), which is generally ample for the needs of the OEM
marketing to these various end users. This model and the proposed larger scale
version of the EDI will access a market segment of approximately $340 million of
which $170 million is immediately accessible.
The Company's marketing strategy is to identify and target independent operating
water equipment manufacturers where the EDI technology can either be
incorporated into or replace certain components in the water treatment systems
currently offered by such manufacturers. The Company has initiated its marketing
strategy both in the U.S. market and overseas, but has no current intentions of
entering into formal supply agreements with any such potential customers.
GOVERNMENT REGULATION
Pursuant to a statute in the State of California, effective in July, 1991,
certain commercial/residential water treatment products must be certified
(tested) by the California Department of Health Services or certain approved
private facilities that each performs according
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to the claims made by the seller in order to be able to sell such proposed
product in California. In addition, another California statute makes it illegal
to make any false claims in connection with the sale of any water treatment
product. Other states have similar laws.
The Company believes that the EDI ultrapure industrial technology is not subject
to the above statute; however, some industrial applications of the EDI
point-of-use technology, i.e., hospitals, will require approval by Underwriter's
Laboratory or equivalent organization. The Company will seek all necessary
approvals or certifications.
PRODUCTION METHODS
EDI TECHNOLOGY - The EDI module is composed of various components. All
internal parts are made of engineered thermoplastics, except the membranes,
electrodes and electronics. The Company has previously purchased certain tooling
and molds required for component plastic parts and intends to contract for the
production of the plastic parts and electrodes for the EDI product. The
membranes utilized in the EDI product are currently purchased from outside
sources. The Company has acquired rights to proprietary membrane technology
which it intends to develop for the EDI product. However, no assurances can be
given that an efficient membrane can be developed for use with the EDI product.
All final assembly is completed by the Company at its Laguna Hills, California
manufacturing facility. Production and assembly functions have been designed
with the flexibility to produce customized variations of the EDI for specialized
usage.
HYDRO COMPONENTS LINE - Except for the membranes offered by the Company,
the Hydro Components line of products consist of component parts purchased from
unaffiliated third party suppliers or sub-contractors and assembled by the
Company into the finished product. The membranes sold under the Hydro Components
line are specially treated by the Company and currently are fabricated by a
sub-contractor pursuant to the Company's design specifications.
WARRANTY
The Company offers a one year limited parts and labor warranty for the EDI
module and may, in the future, contract with others to provide warranty service.
However, it has not made any arrangements with any persons to provide such
service and it may not be able to locate competent persons to perform the
services at an acceptable price. The Company has not experienced any warranty
returns to date; however, no assurances can be given that future warranty
expenses will not be significant.
Suppliers of components utilized in the Hydro Components line of products
provide certain limited parts and labor warranties which the Company passes on
to its customers. No additional warranties are offered by the Company at this
time.
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SOURCES OF SUPPLY
The Company believes that material to build the products which it currently
offers are readily available from at least two sources and the Company currently
has two sources for all such material. The Company is not dependent upon any one
or more principal supplier, except as described under Item 1 - "BUSINESS -
Acquisition of Intellectual Property - Multi-Angle Laser Light Scattering
Instrumentation Technology."
PATENTS AND LICENSE AGREEMENT
Certain technology used by the EDI technology is covered by U.S. Patent No.
4,465,573, issued on August 14, 1984, to Harry M. O'Hare, Sr. Corresponding
patent applications have been filed in certain limited foreign countries. A new
patent application was filed in September, 1988 and in connection therewith U.S.
Patent No. 4,964,970 was granted on October 23, 1990 on design improvement
features of the basic technology patented in 1984. These improvements involve
upgrades of various components, including ion permeable membranes, manifolds
(front and rear), and product water and waste water compartments. Such
improvements will increase performance quality and decrease production costs.
The existence of patents for the EDI technology may not provide any meaningful
protection for the Company because of technological changes, the decision of
courts not to uphold all or part of a patent, or because of the limited
financial resources which may be available to the Company to enforce its patent
rights. The patent does not cover the technology used to make the ion permeable
membranes or the anodes. The Company regards such technologies as trade secrets.
However, since such technologies are not patented, others could attempt to copy
such technologies to the potential detriment of the Company.
The Company has not secured a registered trademark or trade name for the "EDI".
In addition, the membrane technology which the Company acquired from HCI in
February, 1998 is not patented.
Harry M. O'Hare, Sr., the inventor of the EDI technology, entered into a License
Agreement with the Company and HOH, Inc., dated October 30, 1986. The License
Agreement grants to the Company an exclusive worldwide license to manufacture,
use and sell the EDI technology and other water purification products covered by
the current patent and any improvements thereon or under corresponding foreign
patents for the life of such patents. Under the terms of the License Agreement,
the Company is obligated to pay to the individuals who have royalty rights in
the EDI technology, a royalty of approximately $42.00 for each EDI technology
system, which has a capacity of from six to twenty gallons per minute, sold or
placed in service by the Company and its licensees during the life of the
patent. Royalties of approximately $9.00 per such EDI technology are also
payable until a maximum of approximately $525,600 is paid at which time such
additional royalties will terminate. Royalties of approximately 2.05% of the net
sales price are also payable on EDI products of other flow rates. In May, 1987,
Mr. O'Hare assigned all of his interest, including rights to future royalties,
in the patent covering certain parts of the EDI technology to the Company.
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On January 21, 1988, the Company and Harry M. O'Hare, Sr. entered into an
Invention Assignment Agreement for certain payments wherein Mr. O'Hare assigned
to the Company his entire right, title and interest in and to an Improved
Compact Water Purification System and an Improved Compact Low Volume Water
Purification System, both of which are point-of-use products designed to remove
certain contaminants from solution on demand at flow rates under 1 gallon per
minute. In September, 1988, an application for a U.S. patent was filed on the
Compact Low Volume Water Purification System and in October, 1990, U.S. Patent
No. 4,964,970 was granted thereon. The Company's point-of-use EDI technology
incorporates claims covered in both the original U.S. Patent No. 4,465,573 and
the patent for the Improved Compact Low Volume Water Purification System (Patent
No. 4,964,970).
In July, 1992, the Company granted an exclusive worldwide license to EDI
Components for the manufacture and sale of EDI products. Such license was
terminated in August, 1997. See Item 1 - "BUSINESS - Acquisition of Intellectual
Properties - EDI Components."
NON-EXCLUSIVE LICENSE AGREEMENTS
GLEGG WATER CONDITIONING, INC.
On July 1, 1994, the Company and its former licensee (EDI Components) granted
Canadian-based Glegg Water Conditioning, Inc. a non-exclusive license to use and
commercially exploit the EDI technology for an initial term of ten (10) years
for which Glegg paid the non-refundable sum of $50,000. The license provided
that Glegg pay a continuing royalty of 5% on the net sale price of all licensed
products having a total system design flow rate of 100 gallons per minute and
above and a 10% royalty on flow rates less than 100 gallons per minute.
In May, 1997, the Company and its former licensee entered into an Amended and
Restated Technology Licence Agreement providing Glegg with a paid-up license for
a lump sum payment of $125,000 to EDI Components. The amended agreement provides
Glegg the right to sublicense its subsidiaries and affiliates as well as Asahi
Glass Co., LTD, with which Glegg has an on-going working relationship. The
license provided to Glegg relates to sales throughout the world.
POLYMETRICS
On May 3, 1995, the Company and its former licensee granted a non-exclusive EDI
license to Polymetrics of San Jose, California. The terms of such license, for
which Polymetrics paid the sum of $200,000, are similar to those contained in
the July, 1994 Glegg agreement, with the exception that Polymetrics may sell the
licensed product to its end-user customers only.
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RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
During fiscal 1997, the Company recognized a net expense of $338,825 upon the
issuance of shares of common stock in connection with the termination of the
license agreement with EDI Components. Such amount was recorded as research and
development expense for the period.
The Company expended $445,110 during fiscal 1998 on a research program to
develop a drinking water monitoring system derived from the Wyatt technology
acquired in October, 1997. The Company concluded its Phase 1 research on this
proposed technology and has initiated phase two of its program. Consequently,
the Company expects to incur additional research and development costs on the
Wyatt technology. Further, in November, 1998, the Company initiated research and
development activities regarding the proprietary membrane technology acquired
from Hydro Components, Inc. for use with the EDI product. As a result,
additional research and development costs will be incurred for the 1999 fiscal
year. See Item 6 "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition
and Results of Operations Liquidity and Capital Resources."
For a description of the technologies referenced above see headings entitled
"Multi-Angle Laser Light Scattering Instrumentation Technology" and "Ion
Exchange Membrane Technology" under Item 1 - "BUSINESS - Acquisition of
Intellectual Properties."
LASER MONITORING DIVISION
The technology transferred under the October 25, 1997 agreement with Wyatt
Technology Corporation has (at inception) two main areas for exploitation:
(1) Detection and early warning of dangerous particulate materials such as
parasites and other organisms such as bacteria, viruses, spores, etc. If
the initial efforts are successful, future efforts will be directed to
include detection and early warning of asbestos fibers and similar
materials which pose a health hazard to the consumer.
(2) Detection and early warning of dangerous soluble substances such as
mutagens, carcinogens and metabolic poisons.
The latter technology area had already been confirmed, although never
commercialized, during a study by Wyatt for the U. S. Army through a Small
Business Innovative Research program conducted approximately a decade ago. To
make the latter area into a viable product line will require the development of
specialized instrumentation for the implementation of the methods developed (and
patented) under that program, market studies, and the establishment of a
marketing plan to target water consumer delivery agencies (municipalities).
Although this market may well represent a major opportunity (on a worldwide
basis) for future growth of the Company's consumer market products, the current
instrumentation and software available from the Wyatt transfer appears to
provide a more immediate path to developing the parasite detection concept for
the technology. It is for this reason that the Company's initial emphasis will
be to conduct a feasibility study for the detection and monitoring of parasites,
primarily
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<PAGE> 14
Cryptosporidium and Giardia(1), in drinking water sources. Since these parasites
form cysts that have a protective shell, they are particularly dangerous and
difficult to remove as they are resistant to normal treatment levels of
chlorine.
The Center for Disease Control ("CDC") and the Environmental Protection Agency
("EPA") have developed a national "surveillance system" to monitor and track the
incidences of water borne diseases, including those associated with
Cryptosporidium and Giardia contamination. However, this system relies upon
standard water sample gathering and analysis and recognition of outbreaks after
they occur. The CDC documents an average of 15 to 20 waterborne outbreaks
throughout the country each year. Experts speculate, however, that the numbers
are much higher since illnesses caused by waterborne diseases are often mistaken
for the stomach flu or intestinal disorders. In 1997, the CDC reported 1,770(2)
cumulative Cryptosporidiosis cases in the U.S. alone. Cryptosporidiosis was
brought to national attention in 1993 in a Milwaukee incident, when over 400,000
people (more than half of the total population of the City) became ill, with
more than 4,000 hospitalized and 100 deaths. Particularly susceptible were
immunocompromised persons.
The current method for water quality sampling is labor intensive, expensive,
sporadic, time consuming, and results are untimely for corrective action. In the
monitoring for bacteria or parasite detection, for example, workers will collect
samples at distribution points, influent points or effluent points. These
samples will then be transported to laboratories that are equipped to provide
detection and identification of the contaminants in question. Samples are then
either incubated on various media or physically separated to allow for
microscopic visual identification by trained technicians. Standard turn-around
time for information is one to two days, although some tests can often be run in
as little as a few hours. Expenses increase dramatically if quick (few hour)
turn-around is requested or required.
This method of "surveillance" is recognized as woefully inadequate by the water
industry. While it serves to provide incidence statistics, it is operationally
ineffective since problems are detected after dangerous levels of contamination
have already been reached. By the time positive detection is made, it is not
possible to take corrective action to prevent exposure. Corrective actions are
limited to gross and often overblown solutions such as general boil orders or a
total water system shut-down. These actions serve to only limit the initial
outbreaks, rather than to prevent them.
A system that would provide for "real-time" contaminant detection and monitoring
could prevent or limit outbreaks, saving lives and money in the process. The
availability of this technology would clearly represent a leap forward in water
delivery and monitoring. Using the instrumentation and (some) software acquired
through the Wyatt transfer, the Company will seek to develop software and
analytical packages to confirm that the multiangle light scattering ("MALS")
measurements of individual Cryptosporidium and Giardia cysts can be identified
with a
- ----------
(1) Cryptosporidium (Cryptosporidium parvum) and Giardia (Giardia lamblia)
are waterborne protozoan parasites which contaminate water sources such
as wells, rivers, streams, and lakes, generally through animal and fowl
fecal deposits.
(2) CDC Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report 46(47):1121, 1997 (week ending
November 22, 1997).
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<PAGE> 15
certainty greater than 90% in the presence of various background algal species.
The proposed system would monitor the MALS properties of each particle passing
through the detector region and the software program would examine the
measurements and decide whether or not the particle was one of the two test
parasites.
Potential customers for the proposed system would include local water utilities,
both private and municipal; state water utilities and water quality and health
agencies; Federal government agencies such as EPA, DoD, DoE, CDC; wastewater
treatment plants; ground water and well users; and potentially, as the cost of
the sensors and system decrease, homeowners.
Based on a very preliminary evaluation of market needs and the size and number
of potential customers, the market size is estimated to be greater than $200
million per year. Detailed market validation has not been completed; however,
management believes that this estimate is conservative. Concurrent with
conducting the initial research program, the Company intends to conduct a more
comprehensive market study for this proposed drinking water monitoring system.
See Item 1 - "BUSINESS - Acquisition of Intellectual Property - Multi-Angle
Laser Light Scattering Instrumentation Technology."
COMPETITION
The Company's EDI technology competes with only three principal competitors:
on-site regeneration, service deionization and electrodeionization. U.S. Filter
licensed electro-deionization technology from Millipore Corporation of New
Bedford, Mass. in 1989 and continues to work closely with its technical staff.
U.S. Filter manufactures and markets electrodeionization systems for the high
purity industrial segment with capacities ranging from 20 liters/hours to 25
gallons/minutes. Compared to the Company's point-of-use EDI technology, the U.S.
Filter (Ionpure) equipment is more expensive, but still offers substantial
operating cost savings over service deionization. Comparison tests have shown
that the EDI technology is also more efficient than the Ionpure product,
resulting in a lower operating cost.
The technology directly competitive with electro-deionization is service
deionization. The service deionization industry is composed of a few larger
companies such as Arrowhead Industrial Water, Polymetrics, and Continental
Water, as well as hundreds of smaller entities, some of which are dealerships of
Culligan and other water conditioning companies. The EDI unit can reduce
operating costs of producing high purity water by up to 40% in comparison to
service deionization. The marketing challenge for the Company will be to
convince water equipment manufacturers to utilize the EDI technology rather than
conventional ion exchange resin deionization. With service deionization, the
customer does not have to purchase capital equipment as he does with EDI, so the
service deionization system can be upgraded or down-sized with no substantial
cost to the customer. The customer pays for the water on either a
cost-per-gallon basis, or a cost-per-regeneration basis. Regeneration is done at
the service company's facility so that the customer does not have to handle or
dispose of chemical waste.
Many companies in the water treatment market are established in the field,
including the well-known firms mentioned above and others. All of such companies
are larger and better financed than the Company, have established products and
an established customer base and can
15
<PAGE> 16
accordingly devote more resources to research and development, production and
marketing activities. In addition, it is possible that the water purification
industry may be the subject of technological innovation or other factors which
may attract additional competition in the future. The Company believes, however,
that the patents for the EDI technology and its technical know-how may be
significant in its ability to compete.
With regard to the Company's proposed drinking water monitoring product, there
are established methods of water quality testing currently employed by local and
state water utilities, both private and municipal. However, these methods are
labor intensive, expensive and time consuming and do not provide the near "real
time" monitoring capabilities which the Company's product, if it can be
developed, would purport to offer.
The membrane technology is intended to reduce the Company's dependence on
outside suppliers for this component of the EDI product as well as to
significantly reduce the cost of such component. If the Company is successful in
developing an efficient membrane, the expected cost reduction in the membrane
component of the EDI product should result in a substantial increase in the cost
competitiveness of the Company's product. See "Item 6 - "Management's Discussion
and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Liquidity and
Capital Resources."
EMPLOYEES
As of April 16, 1999, the Company employed fourteen full-time employees, of
which seven were engaged in development, production and design; four in
administrative, marketing and clerical functions; and three are engaged in
research and development of the Company's proposed drinking water monitoring
product based on the Wyatt technology acquired in October, 1997 (see Item 1 -
"BUSINESS - Laser Monitoring Division"). In order to implement its proposed
business, the Company will have to hire additional employees in 1999,
particularly manufacturing and marketing employees. Additional employees may be
required if the Company successfully develops the membrane technology. However,
the Company cannot predict with any certainty when it will hire such personnel.
The Company believes that its relationship with its employees is good and it is
not a party to any collective bargaining agreement. The future success of the
Company will be dependent upon its ability to attract and retain qualified
personnel.
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
The Company currently leases, with an option to purchase, a 30,201 sq. ft.
facility in Laguna Hills, California and pays a gross (including taxes,
insurance and major repairs) lease payment of $16,000 per month. In March, 1998,
the Company sub-leased approximately 10,000 sq. ft. of such facility to an
unaffiliated third party which utilizes such space to warehouse and distribute
heating and cooling parts and equipment. Under the terms of the two-year
agreement, the sub-lessee pays the Company $6,500 per month. Management believes
that its present facilities are adequate for all of its current operations, and
those contemplated for the foreseeable future.
The Company has the option, until January 31, 2001, to purchase the above
building. If the option is exercised prior to month 18 of the lease term (August
1, 1999), the purchase price will
16
<PAGE> 17
be $2,300,000. If the option is exercised between month 19 and month 36, the
purchase price will be $2,300,000, plus the cumulative change in the Consumer
Price Index (all Urban Consumers for Los Angeles area) from month 1 to the date
the option is exercised. If the Company should exercise its option to purchase
the building after month 18, and the closing date of escrow extends beyond month
36, the Company will continue to pay rent as set forth in the lease with
applicable increases.
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
In June, 1998, the Company entered into an agreement to settle a 1993 default
judgment rendered in the Los Angeles County Municipal Court against the Company
for unpaid credit card charges. The Company paid a total of $22,000 to
extinguish the debt accrued at $30,744, resulting in a gain on the settlement in
the sum of $8,744 for the fiscal year ended October 31, 1998.
In January, 1998, the Company satisfied the principal and interest due on a
$12,000 promissory note issued to the Economic Development Bank for Puerto Rico
(the "Bank") under the terms of a settlement reached in May, 1997 on a $3
million default judgment rendered against the Company in June, 1996. The
settlement also provided for the issuance by the Company of 100,000 shares of
Common Stock and 100,000 five-year warrants to purchase common stock at $1.00
per share. The lawsuit, which was brought by the Bank in February, 1993 in the
San Juan (Puerto Rico) Superior Court, alleged that the Company, its bankrupt
Puerto Rico subsidiary (HOH International, Inc.), and the officers and directors
of both, breached their fiduciary duty in entering into a distribution agreement
with HOH/CNM2 Enterprises which ultimately led to the dissolution of the
subsidiary. With payment of the referenced promissory note, the Company has
satisfied all of its obligations under the settlement.
On or about February 15, 1999, the Company filed a complaint against Wyatt
Technology Corporation ("Wyatt Technology") in the Orange County Superior Court
of California, Case No. 805529. The Complaint alleges a cause of action for
breach of contract, specific performance, and reformation, as well as a
temporary restraining order and further injunctive and declaratory relief. The
lawsuit alleges that Wyatt Technology breached the October, 1997 Technology
Transfer Agreement (the "Agreement") by which the Company obtained a license to
use and develop certain laser-based technology and patents held by Wyatt
Technology.
On February 23, 1999, Orange County Superior Court Judge Randell Wilkinson
granted the Company's application for ex parte relief and issued a temporary
order restraining Wyatt Technology, and its officers, agents, and
representatives, from breaching the Technology Transfer Agreement; from taking
any action to rescind the Agreement, or any of the Company's rights thereunder;
and from negotiating with any of the Company's competitors, or any third party,
regarding the licensing, use, dissemination, sale or transfer of any of the
technology which is the subject of the Agreement.
On or about March 9, 1999, Judge Wilkinson vacated the temporary restraining
order and confirmed a stipulation entered into between the parties that, among
other things, pending the final resolution of the Company's lawsuit against
Wyatt Technology, neither Wyatt Technology,
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<PAGE> 18
nor any of its agents, servants, employees, representatives or other persons
acting in concert or participating with them, will engage in negotiations with
any third party regarding the licensing, use, dissemination, sale or transfer of
any of the technology which is the subject of the Technology Transfer Agreement;
nor provide the use of or disseminate in any way, any of that technology to any
third party.
On or about February 23, 1999, Wyatt Technology filed a cross-complaint against
the Company, Anthony M. Frank, individually; and 25 unnamed "Doe" defendants for
relief based on alleged (1) breach of contract; (2) rescission of contract; (3)
fraud; (4) declaratory relief; and (5) intentional interference with economic
relationship. The Company was unaware of the filing of this cross-complaint
until it was served on the Company on or about March 11, 1999.
The Company and its counsel believe that it will prevail on the merits if this
matter should go to trial and the Company intends to vigorously prosecute this
lawsuit and defend this cross-complaint.
On April 14, 1999, Clifford D. Wyatt, who is an officer and shareholder of Wyatt
Technology, resigned from the Board of Directors of Electropure, Inc.
Currently, Wyatt Technology Corporation has 10.3% of the outstanding voting
power of all classes of the Company's stock.
ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
No matters were submitted to a vote of security holders during the fiscal year
ended October 31, 1998.
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<PAGE> 19
PART II
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDERS MATTERS.
The Company's common stock is currently quoted in the OTC Electronic Bulletin
Board market as a "penny stock" under the symbol "ELTP". The following table
sets forth the high and low bid prices for the Company's Common Stock, as
reported on the Bulletin Board or "pink sheets", for the quarters that the
securities were traded. The quotations reflect inter-dealer prices, without
retail mark-up or mark-down or commissions and may not represent actual
transactions.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
-----------------
COMMON STOCK
BID PRICES
-----------------
HIGH LOW
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
FISCAL 1997 First Quarter 3/8 1/4
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Second Quarter 1/4 1/8
------------------------------------------------------------
Third Quarter 1/2 1/8
------------------------------------------------------------
Fourth Quarter 1-3/4 5/16
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FISCAL 1998 First Quarter 2-1/8 1/2
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Second Quarter 3-3/4 7/8
------------------------------------------------------------
Third Quarter 3 1-3/8
------------------------------------------------------------
Fourth Quarter 1-3/4 13/16
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FISCAL 1999 First Quarter 1-1/2 1/2
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Second Quarter (through April 16, 1999) 1-1/2 7/8
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
The market for the Company's securities is sporadic and quoted prices may not
represent the true value of such securities.
As of April 16, 1999, the Company had approximately 760 holders of record of its
Common Stock.
Between September 3, 1998 and October 31, 1998, the Company issued 155,928
shares of Common Stock upon the exercise of warrants pursuant to a private
placement offering to reduce, to $1.00, the exercise price of such warrants
which were originally exercisable at prices ranging from $2.00 to $15.00 per
share.
Between August 14, 1998 and October 31, 1998, the Company granted 465,000
warrants to purchase Common Stock at exercise prices ranging from $0.8125 to
$1.38 per share. In November, 1998, an additional 75,000 warrants were granted
at $1.00 per share. Of such warrants, 10,000 ten-year warrants were granted to
each of the Company's five (5) Board members as an annual stipend for service to
the Board of Directors. The remaining warrants, expiring through October, 2004,
were granted to employees of the Company and vest in varying annual increments.
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<PAGE> 20
On January 15, 1999, the Company issued 1,000,000 shares of its Series B
Convertible Preferred Stock ("Series B") out of the 1,000,000 shares of
authorized Preferred Stock, $1.00 par value. Series B provides for a $1.00 per
share liquidation preference over the Common Stock, Class B Common Stock and
Redeemable Convertible Preferred Stock and each share of Series B entitles the
holder thereof to four (4) votes per share and is to vote as a class along with
holders of the Common Stock, Class B Common Stock and Redeemable Convertible
Preferred Stock. The shares of Series B are convertible, in whole or in part,
into Common Stock on a share for share basis at any time at the option of the
holder, Mr. Anthony M. Frank. Each share of Series B is automatically
convertible into one share of Common Stock upon five days' written notice from
the Corporation if either of the following events shall occur:
(1) The Corporation shall make a public offering of any of its
securities under the terms of an Underwriting Agreement with a
securities dealer or underwriter; or
(2) The Corporation's securities shall be admitted for listing on a
national securities exchange market system or the NASDAQ System
where its Common Stock may then be traded.
In February, 1999, the Company issued an aggregate of 125,000 warrants to
purchase Common Stock at $0.90 per share to two employees. All of such warrants
vest over a five year period commencing one year from the date of grant. An
additional 25,000 warrants, at a $0.90 exercise price, were granted to an
employee as a bonus. The latter warrants are fully exercisable as of the date of
grant.
In March, 1999, the Company granted 175,000 warrants to purchase Common Stock to
a consultant in partial consideration of services to be rendered. Such warrants,
exercisable at $1.00 per share, vest over a five-year period commencing one year
from the date of grant.
All of these warrant issuances were in private direct transactions, exempt under
Section 4(2) of the Securities Act of 1933 or Regulation D promulgated
thereunder.
The Company has not paid any dividends on its Common Stock since its
incorporation. Electropure anticipates that, in the foreseeable future,
earnings, if any, will be retained for use in the business or for other
corporate purposes and it is not anticipated that cash dividends will be paid.
Payment of dividends is at the discretion of the Board of Directors and may be
limited by future loan agreements or California law. Under California law, if a
corporation does not have retained earnings, it may pay dividends provided that
after giving effect thereto, (a) the sum of the assets of the corporation
(exclusive of good will, capitalized research and development expenses or
deferred charges) would be at least equal to one and one-quarter times its
liabilities (not including deferred taxes, deferred income and other deferred
credits) and (b) the current assets of the corporation would be at least equal
to the current liabilities or, if the average of the earnings of the corporation
before taxes on income and for interest expense for the two preceding fiscal
years was less than the average of interest expense of the corporation for such
fiscal years, the current assets would be at least equal to one and one-quarter
times its current liabilities.
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<PAGE> 21
ITEM 6. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS
OF OPERATIONS.
CERTAIN RECLASSIFICATIONS HAVE BEEN MADE TO PRIOR YEAR FINANCIAL INFORMATION TO
CONFORM TO THE CURRENT YEAR PRESENTATION.
FISCAL YEARS ENDED OCTOBER 31, 1997 AND 1998
Sales increased for the fiscal year ended October 31, 1998 by $779,524 as
compared to fiscal 1997, since the Company only initiated EDI module sales in
the last three months of fiscal 1997 and had no sales of its Hydro Components
line of products during the 1997 fiscal year.
Research and development expenses for fiscal 1998 increased by $106,285 compared
to fiscal 1997. The expenses incurred in fiscal 1997 primarily reflect the costs
associated with the issuance of common stock pursuant to the termination during
the year of the license relationship with EDI Components, offset by $78,437 in
license fees received by the Company from EDI Components prior to such
termination. In fiscal 1998, research and development expenses arise from the
program which the Company initiated in December, 1997 to develop the drinking
water monitoring technology acquired from Wyatt Technology Corporation in late
October, 1997.
General and administrative expenses for fiscal 1998 increased by $555,137 as
compared to fiscal 1997. The primary components of this increase include:
- - Additional expenses, totaling $240,593, due to increases in the Company's
administrative and consulting staff;
- - Increases in rent and utilities, aggregating $117,602, resulting from the
Company's March, 1998 relocation to its current facility;
- - An increase of $97,403 in stock based compensation costs. This expense
represents the fair value of warrants issued as partial consideration for
goods and services rendered by employees and consultants to the Company. The
increased cost for fiscal 1998, is commensurate with the increase in
employees and use of consulting services by the Company.
- - An expense during fiscal 1998 upon writing off $7,278 in uncollectible
accounts.
The increase in general and administrative expenses for fiscal 1998 were
partially offset by the $58,500 in income realized by the Company on the
sub-lease of approximately 10,000 square feet of the facility which it current
occupies. The Company will continue to sub-lease such premises until it requires
the use of the area involved.
Interest income and expense activity is reflected as a net figure and represents
an increase of $393,868 in interest expense for the fiscal year ended 1998 as
compared to the prior year. Interest income for fiscal 1998, in the sum of
$7,556, arose from a short-term loan. The primary
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<PAGE> 22
component of interest expense in fiscal 1998, is represented by a $400,175
expense realized pursuant to the issuance of convertible debt of $400,000 in
loans by a principal shareholder.
The Company realized a net loss before income taxes and extraordinary item of
$1,532,194 for fiscal 1998, representing an increase of $920,997 from the prior
year level. The increase was primarily due, as noted above, to increased
overhead expenses, the costs of issuing compensatory stock warrants and the
recognition of the beneficial conversion features of debt incurred during fiscal
1998.
During fiscal 1998, the Company realized an extraordinary gain of $26,051
resulting from writing off the principal and accrued interest on a 1980 loan
made to the Company for which no collection efforts have been made. In addition,
$8,744 of this gain represents the difference between the amount carried by the
Company for payables and the amount paid by the Company during fiscal 1998 to
settle the debt in full.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
At October 31, 1998, the Company had net working capital (total current assets
less total current liabilities) of $284,957, representing a decrease of $11,549
from the prior year end. The Company accrued $100,000 pursuant to the prepayment
in that amount by a customer for EDI products to be delivered at a later date.
Such products were delivered and the sales revenue was recorded in November,
1998.
Between January and March, 1998, $409,847 of indebtedness incurred during the
current period was converted into 342,659 shares of the Company's Common Stock.
During fiscal 1997, the Company funded its working capital requirements with
$78,437 received from EDI Components. Thereafter, the Company funded its
operations with $511,620 in net proceeds (including a $25,000 note receivable)
from the private placement issuance of 530,988 shares of Common Stock and
250,000 three-year warrants to purchase Common Stock at $2.00 per share. The
Company issued 4,706 shares of Common Stock to an individual as a commission in
connection with such private placement. The Company received an additional
$28,700 in cash and a $25,000 note during fiscal 1997 upon the exercise of
107,400 warrants to purchase Common Stock.
The Company had limited sales of its EDI products during the 1998 fiscal year
and initiated sales of its Hydro Components line of products in May, 1998.
Although the Company incurred a loss of $1,136,324 from such operations for
fiscal 1998, cost-cutting efforts and increased marketing activities are
expected to generate higher sales revenues during the latter part of fiscal
1999. The Company funded its working capital and other cash needs during fiscal
1998 from the sale of securities. The Company received net proceeds of $550,000
pursuant to a private placement offering whereby the Company issued 278,363
shares of Common Stock and 137,500 three-year warrants to purchase Common Stock.
Of such common shares, 3,363 shares were issued as a commission to one
individual. The Company received an additional $155,928 on the exercise of
warrants to purchase Common Stock pursuant to a private offering by the Company
to
22
<PAGE> 23
temporarily reduce, to $1.00, the exercise prices of such warrants originally
granted at prices ranging from $2.00 to $15.00. The Company also received notes
in the amount of $6,000 and $29,750 on the exercise of 12,000 and 25,000
warrants during fiscal 1998.
On January 15, 1999, the Company received $1 million in net proceeds upon the
sale to Anthony M. Frank of one million shares of Series B Convertible Preferred
Shares. See Item 5 for a description of the Series B Convertible Preferred
Stock. See also Item 12 - "Certain Relationships and Related Transactions - Mr.
Anthony Frank."
PLAN OF OPERATION
In the opinion of management, available funds will satisfy the Company's working
capital requirements through October, 1999. The Company intends to fund its
working capital requirements by establishing strategic alliances with potential
joint venture partners for specific products under development or now being
produced by the Company. The Company is currently in the preliminary stage of
discussions with a potential strategic partner regarding further development and
use of the membrane technology acquired by the Company from Hydro Components in
February, 1998. The Company further believes that similar opportunities will
become available for other potential products, i.e., the Laserpure monitoring
technology, as successful development efforts are achieved. In an effort to
conserve available working capital, the Company intends to also utilize leasing
arrangements and/or debt financing where available in order to continue its
development programs. This approach will also permit the Company to acquire
capital equipment which will allow for lower production costs of various EDI
module components, particularly, the membranes utilized therein. The Company's
management believes that, if necessary, the Company will be able to raise
additional working capital by the private sale of its securities.
No assurances can be given that currently available funds will satisfy the
working capital needs of the Company for the period estimated, or; that the
Company can obtain additional working capital through the sale of Common Stock
or other securities, the issuance of indebtedness or otherwise or on terms
acceptable to the Company. Further, no assurances can be given that any such
equity financing will not result in a further substantial dilution to the
existing shareholders or will be on terms satisfactory to the Company.
The Company will be required to raise substantial amounts of new financing, in
the form of additional equity investments, loan financing, or from strategic
partnerships, in order to carry out its business objectives. There can be no
assurance that the Company will be able to obtain such additional financing on
terms that are acceptable to the Company and at the time required by the
Company, or at all. Further, any such financing may cause dilution of the
interests of the current shareholders in the Company. If the Company is unable
to obtain such additional equity or loan financing, the Company's financial
condition and results of operations will be materially adversely affected.
Moreover, the Company's estimates of its cash requirements to carry out its
current business objectives are based upon certain assumptions, including
certain assumptions as to the Company's revenues, net income (loss) and other
factors, and there can be no assurance that such assumptions will prove to be
accurate or that unbudgeted costs will not be incurred. Future
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<PAGE> 24
events, including the problems, delays, expenses and difficulties frequently
encountered by similarly situated companies, as well as changes in economic,
regulatory or competitive conditions, may lead to cost increases that could have
a material adverse effect on the Company and its plans. If the Company is not
successful in obtaining loans or equity financing for future developments, it is
unlikely that the Company will have sufficient cash to continue to conduct
operations, particularly research and development programs, as currently
planned. The Company believes that in order to raise needed capital, it may be
required to issue debt or equity securities that are significantly lower than
the current market price of the Company's Common Stock.
ITEM 7. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
See Item 13 (a)
ITEM 8. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND
FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
CHANGE IN CERTIFYING ACCOUNTANTS
On June 16, 1998, the Company retained the independent accounting firm of Kelly
& Company to conduct an audit of its financial statements for the fiscal years
ended October 31, 1997 and 1998. For the Company's fiscal years ended October
31, 1996 and 1997, the financial statements were subject to going concern
qualifications and an uncertainty as to the outcome of certain litigation and
claims, but were not otherwise qualified or modified as to audit scope, or
accounting principles by Alex N. Chaplan & Associates. During the two fiscal
years ended October 31, 1996 and 1997, and since October 31, 1997, there were
not any disagreements with Alex N. Chaplan & Associates on any matter of
accounting principles or practices, financial statement disclosure, or auditing
scope or procedure, which disagreements, if not resolved to the satisfaction of
Alex N. Chaplan & Associates, would have caused it to make a reference to the
subject matter of the disagreements in connection with its report, nor were
there any "reportable events" as defined in Item 304(a)(1)(v) of Regulation S-K.
During the two fiscal years ended October 31, 1996 and 1997, and between October
31, 1997 and June 16, 1998, Registrant did not consult with Kelly & Company on
the application of accounting principles to a specified transaction, or the type
of audit opinion that might be rendered on the Registrant's financial statements
or any disagreements (as defined in Item 304(a)(1)(iv) of Regulation S-K) or a
reportable event (as defined above).
24
<PAGE> 25
PART III
ITEM 9. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT
DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
The directors and executive officers of Electropure, Inc. are as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
-------------------------------------------------------------------
NAME AGE POSITION
-------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
William F. Farnam 78 Director
Randall P. Frank 36 Director
Randolph S. Heidmann 48 Director
Floyd H. Panning 70 Director, President and
Chief Executive Officer
Catherine Patterson 46 Chief Financial Officer
and Secretary
</TABLE>
WILLIAM F. FARNAM, 78, was named to the Board of Directors on August 5, 1997.
Mr. Farnam spent 1967 through 1968 as General Manager on construction of The
Forum (Los Angeles) for sports entrepreneur Jack Kent Cooke. He served the City
of Inglewood, California for 20 (cumulative) years, as Public Works Director and
City Engineer and went on to become the Assistant City Manager there from 1980
to 1982. Between 1983 and 1984, he served as Project Engineer for the Park Place
Associates Poker Casino in Southern California. He provided engineering
consulting services for various municipalities from 1985 through 1990 when he
retired. Mr. Farnam is a Registered Professional Civil Engineer in the State of
California and received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering
from the University of Southern California and is a Management Studies Graduate
from the University of California at Los Angeles.
RANDALL P. FRANK, 36, joined the Board of Directors on October 25, 1997. Mr.
Frank, is the son of Anthony M. Frank, who is the former Postmaster General of
the United States and is a substantial shareholder in the Company. Between 1992
and 1995, he worked in sales and marketing for Sonnet Systems, a Northern
California firm which offers computerized currency exchange services. Randall
Frank has been engaged since 1995 as an insurance underwriter with Five Star
Managers, LLC in San Francisco, California, an insurance firm whose primary
business is underwriting trustees for union and corporate employee benefit
plans. Mr. Frank received a B.A. degree from the University of California at
Berkeley and a Masters degree in International Management from the American
Graduate School of International Management ("Thunderbird").
25
<PAGE> 26
RANDOLPH S. HEIDMANN, 48, was employed by the Company between September, 1990
and November, 1991 as an electronics instrumentation design engineer to continue
development work on innovative electronic components which the Company planned
to engineer into its product line. He was named to the Company's Board of
Directors in September, 1991. Prior to joining the Company, he spent nine years
with Teledyne Electronics where he was responsible for data acquisition
subsystems design for telemetry products. He has participated in the development
of a variety of consumer electronics products and custom production test
equipment. Since 1991, Mr. Heidmann has served as an electrical engineer for
Photonic Detectors, Inc. in Simi Valley, California. He holds a BS degree in
Physics from the University of California at Davis.
FLOYD H. PANNING, 70, joined the Board of Directors and was engaged by the
Company as President and Chief Executive Officer in August, 1997. Mr. Panning
came out of retirement in April, 1992 to establish EDI Components and form a
license relationship with the Company to manufacture and market the EDI
technology. He has been the president of EDI Components since 1992. Prior to
forming EDI Components, Mr. Panning had founded two million-dollar businesses
which were sold in 1982. In 1972, he founded Formatron, Inc., a manufacturer of
rotational molded plastic products such as plating and chemical storage tanks,
and many other polyethylene and polypropylene containers. In 1963, he acquired
Mills Engineering Co., a manufacturer of high quality aluminum products. As
owner/operator he expanded the firm from a limited local sales organization by
establishing major national and international accounts with Fortune 100
companies and major municipalities.
CATHERINE PATTERSON, 46, became Secretary of the Company in May, 1989, was
Assistant Secretary from May, 1986 to May, 1988, held the position of Treasurer
from August, 1984 to February, 1986, and was a director for a short time in
1984. In June, 1990, she became Chief Financial Officer of the Company. From
1971 until joining the Company in 1981, she was a legal secretary for various
Michigan law offices, including General Motors Corporation, where she dealt
closely with various corporate sectors and counsels throughout the United States
and Puerto Rico and portions of Canada and South America.
Directors serve until the next Annual Meeting of Shareholders when their
successors are elected and qualified. Mr. Panning has a right to nominate one
director of the Company. See Item 10 - "Executive Compensation - Employment
Agreement." Officers, subject to any employment agreements, serve at the
pleasure of the Board of Directors.
Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance
As of the date of this report, all directors, officers and beneficial owners of
more than 10 percent of any class of equity securities of the Company have filed
all reports required by Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
The following table provides information regarding any of such reports which
were filed on a delinquent basis:
26
<PAGE> 27
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NAME OF TYPE OF NO. OF TRANSACTIONS
REPORTING PERSON REPORT FILED LATE REPORTED LATE
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Form 4 - Statement of Changes in
Anthony M. Frank Beneficial Ownership 1
Form 4 - Statement of Changes in
Randall P. Frank Beneficial Ownership 2
Form 4 - Statement of Changes in
Randolph S. Heidmann Beneficial Ownership 1
Form 4 - Statement of Changes in
Floyd H. Panning Beneficial Ownership 2
Form 4 - Statement of Changes in
Catherine Patterson Beneficial Ownership 1
Form 3 - Initial Statement of
Clifford D. Wyatt (1) Beneficial Ownership 1
</TABLE>
(1) Clifford D. Wyatt resigned from the Company's Board of Directors on April
14, 1999.
ITEM 10. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The Company had no executive officer whose annual compensation was more than
$100,000 per year for the fiscal years ended October 31, 1998 and 1997. Floyd
Panning, who joined the Company as Chief Executive Officer in August, 1997, is
being compensated at the rate set forth in his Employment Agreement with the
Company that is described below under "Executive Compensation - Employment
Agreement." The Company has no stock option or other forms of compensation
plans.
The following table sets forth summary information regarding compensation paid
by the Company for the years ended October 31, 1998 and 1997 to the chief
executive officer of the Company.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
OTHER ANNUAL AWARDS
NAME AND COMPENSATION
PRINCIPAL POSITION YEAR SALARY($) ($) (1) OPTIONS (#)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
FLOYD H. PANNING
President and 1998 87,346 - 250,000 (2)
Chief Executive Officer
1997 12,000 - 125,000 (3)
</TABLE>
(1) The Company is not required to report the value of personal benefits unless
the aggregate dollar value for 1998 was at least 10 percent of the executive
officer's salary and bonus or $50,000.
(2) In March, 1998, the Company granted Mr. Panning 250,000 options to purchase
Common stock at an exercise price of $1.125 per share. The options, which expire
in March, 2008, vest in increments of 50,000 over a five-year period commencing
on the grant date.
(3) See "Item 10 - Executive Compensation - Employment Agreement".
27
<PAGE> 28
COMPENSATION COMMITTEE INTERLOCKS AND INSIDER PARTICIPATION
The Company does not have a compensation committee or other committees of the
Board of Directors performing similar functions. Compensation of executive
officers is determined by the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors
negotiated Mr. Floyd Panning's Employment Agreement, whereby he became President
and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, in connection with the License
Termination Agreement with EDI Components and Mr. Panning assuming such
positions with the Company.
EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT
On August 14, 1997, the Company entered into a five-year Employment Agreement
(effective August 5, 1997) with Floyd Panning whereby he became the Company's
President and Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Panning has the unilateral option to
extend such employment for a period of two (2) years. The Agreement provides Mr.
Panning with five weeks' vacation, the use of a Company car and cellular
telephone and participation in any benefit programs offered by the Company (none
at this time). Pursuant to the terms of the Employment Agreement, Mr. Panning
was granted 125,000 warrants to purchase Common Stock at $0.28125 per share.
Such warrants are exercisable in increments of 25,000 annually commencing with
the date of the agreement. The Employment Agreement also provides for the
following:
(a) A base monthly salary of $6,500 increasing to $8,000 per month once
the Company has realized a minimum of $1 million in financing. Each
year thereafter, the base salary shall automatically increase by an
amount equal to five (5%) percent. Mr. Panning's base salary
increased to $8,000 per month effective in April, 1998 pursuant to
meeting the minimum financing requirement.
(b) Upon realizing the above minimum financing, the Company has agreed to
reimburse Mr. Panning for certain wages deferred while he was
employed at EDI Components (a total of $63,700 was deferred). A
$25,000 promissory note issued by Mr. Panning, in consideration for
his exercise of 50,000 warrants to purchase Common Stock at $0.50 per
share, will be satisfied (including accrued interest) with such
deferred wages, net of normal federal, state and local income and
payroll taxes. Mr. Panning agreed to waive any remaining balance of
deferred wages after payment of such promissory note.
(c) Mr. Panning has the right to nominate, subject to shareholder
approval, one person to the Company's Board of Directors during the
term of his employment. In the meantime, Mr. Panning has been named
to the Company's Board of Directors as his nominee.
(d) Mr. Panning may, without cause, terminate his employment and retain
the right to the following percentage of his base monthly salary:
28
<PAGE> 29
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
---------------------------------------------------------
YEAR OF PERCENT
TERMINATION OF SALARY
---------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C>
1 60%
2 70%
3 80%
4 90%
5 100%
6 0%
7 0%
</TABLE>
(e) Any termination of employment by the Company shall immediately vest
all 125,000 warrants granted to Mr. Panning under the employment
agreement. In addition, termination by the Company of Mr. Panning's
employment without cause, shall automatically accelerate the issuance
of Additional Shares due EDI's investors under the License
Termination Agreement at the then fair market value; provided,
however, Mr. Panning's successor has not been approved by simple
majority vote of such EDI Components' investors (excluding Mr.
Panning).
COMPENSATION OF DIRECTORS
In August, 1997, the Company authorized an annual issuance of 10,000 ten-year
warrants to purchase Common Stock to each Director for service to the Company at
a 25% discount to the fair market value of the Common Stock as of the date of
grant. In August, 1997, 10,000 warrants to purchase Common Stock were issued to
each of the then five (5) Directors of the Company (including Mr. Floyd Panning,
who joined the Board in August) at an exercise price of $0.375 per share. An
additional 10,000 ten-year warrants were issued, at an exercise price of $0.68
per share, to Randall P. Frank, who joined the Board of Directors in October,
1997.
In August, 1998, pursuant to the above resolution, the Company issued 10,000
ten-year warrants to purchase Common Stock to each of the Company's five
Directors at an exercise price of $1.375 per share.
29
<PAGE> 30
ITEM 11. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT.
PRINCIPAL SHAREHOLDERS
The following table sets forth information as of April 16, 1999 with respect to
the Common Stock, Class B Common Stock, and Convertible Preferred Stock owned by
the only persons known by the Company to own beneficially 5% or more of any such
classes of stock, by each director and by all directors and officers as a group.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
COMMON CLASS B SERIES B CONVERTIBLE % OF
STOCK % OF COMMON % OF PREFERRED % OF PREFERRED % OF VOTING
NAME (1)(2) CLASS STOCK CLASS STOCK(3) CLASS STOCK(4) CLASS POWER(5)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
William F. Farnam 116,918 1.0% -- -- -- -- -- -- (*)
Anthony M. Frank
320 Meadowood Court
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523 2,479,742 21.3% -- -- 1,000,000 100% -- -- 34.3%
Randall P. Frank 403,898 3.5% -- -- -- -- -- -- 2.1%
Randolph S. Heidmann 20,000 (*) -- -- -- -- -- -- (*)
Harry M. O'Hare, Sr
2035 Huntington Dr. #1
S. Pasadena, CA 91030 2,500 (*) 83,983 100% -- -- 931,629 35.8% 8.5%
Floyd H. Panning
23456 South Pointe Drive
Laguna Hills, CA 92653 826,792 7.1% -- -- -- -- 7,500 (*) 4.4%
Catherine Patterson 210,112 1.8% -- -- -- -- 2,906 (*) 1.1%
Clifford D. Wyatt 10,000 (*) -- -- -- -- -- -- (*)
Wyatt Technology Corporation
30 S. La Patera Lane, Suite B-7
Santa Barbara, CA 93117 1,950,000 16.8% -- -- -- -- -- -- 10.3%
All officers and directors
as a group (6 persons) 1,587,720 13.7% -- -- -- -- 10,406 (*) 8.5%
- ----------
(*) Less than 1%
(**) Includes address of five percent or more shareholders of any class.
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
(1) Excludes shares of Common Stock issuable upon conversion of Class B
Common Stock, which carry eight (8) votes per share. If such shares of
Common Stock were included, Mr. O'Hare and all officers and directors,
as a group would own 86,483 shares (1.0%) and 1,587,720 shares (13.6%)
of Common Stock, respectively.
(2) Includes currently exercisable warrants or options to purchase an
aggregate of 3,004,834 shares of Common Stock.
(3) The Series B Convertible Preferred Stock is convertible into Common
Stock, on a share-for-share basis, at the option of the holder or
automatically if (a) the Company shall make a public
30
<PAGE> 31
offering of its securities, or (2) if the Company's securities are
listed on NASDAQ or a national securities exchange market system.
(4) The Convertible Preferred Stock was convertible into Common Stock only
if certain earnings or market prices of the Common Stock were achieved
prior to October 31, 1990. Such earnings and market prices were not
achieved and commencing January 31, 1991, the Company was required to
redeem such shares at $0.01 per share. The Company intends to redeem the
Convertible Preferred Stock during fiscal 1999.
(5) Reflects the voting rights of the Common Stock and Convertible Preferred
Stock, each of which carries one (1) vote per share; Class B Common
Stock, which carries eight (8) votes per share; and Series B Convertible
Preferred Stock, which carries four (4) votes per share.
In order to comply with conditions imposed by the Commissioner of Corporations
of the State of California (the "Commissioner"), in connection with the public
offering of Units in June, 1987, Harry M. O'Hare, Sr. and Sandra O'Hare (Mr.
O'Hare's former late wife) have agreed that until such conditions are lifted by
order of the Commissioner, all the shares of Class B Common Stock and
Convertible Preferred Stock held by them (except for 107,848 shares of
Convertible Preferred Stock issued in July, 1988 to Harry M. O'Hare, Sr.) and
any Common Stock received upon conversion of the Class B Common Stock and
Convertible Preferred Stock, will be subject to the following conditions (which
shall be referenced in a legend on the certificates for such shares):
(1) such shares will not participate in dividends, other than stock
dividends;
(2) such shares will not participate in any distribution of assets in the
event of liquidation; and
(3) such shares may not be transferred without prior written consent of the
Commissioner except for transfer pursuant to order or process of any
court.
The issuance of an order lifting such conditions is in the sole discretion of
the Commissioner. However, under the Commissioner's Rules, such an order will
generally be issued when the Company has demonstrated a satisfactory earnings
record, as defined in such Rules, and the Company understands that in practice
such an order will also be issued in the event of a merger, consolidation, or
liquidation in which the holders of the Common Stock have received a
satisfactory return on such shares.
In October, 1998, the Company agreed to seek the approval of its shareholders
(at the next annual meeting of shareholders) to enter into an agreement with Mr.
O'Hare and two of his creditors which would support a petition to the
Commissioner for removal of the above restrictions. If such petition is
approved, the agreement provides for the transfer of all Electropure, Inc.
securities held by Mr. O'Hare's to such creditors, including the Company, in
exchange for certain monthly cash payments and extinguishment of debt owed by
Mr. O'Hare. The Company intends to call an annual meeting of its shareholders as
soon as practicable.
31
<PAGE> 32
ITEM 12. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS.
MR. WILLIAM FARNAM
On October 1, 1997, Mr. Farnam exercised 44,000 warrants to purchase Common
Stock at $0.50 per share. Such warrants, which were scheduled to expire at 5:00
P.M. on October 1, 1997, had been assigned to Mr. Farnam by various investors of
EDI Components.
On October 8, 1998, Mr. Farnam exercised 1,250 and 1,668 warrants to purchase
Common Stock which had been assigned to him by the original holder of such
warrants on October 2, 1998. Pursuant to a private placement offering authorized
by the Company in September, 1998, the original exercise price of such warrants
($9.00 and $15.00, respectively) had been reduced to $1.00 per share.
MR. ANTHONY FRANK
In February, 1996, Mr. Frank loaned EDI Components $500,000 and received, as
partial consideration therefor, a security interest in the Company's patents and
300,000 warrants to purchase the Company's common stock at $2.25. Such warrants
are exercisable until February, 2001. Mr. Frank had the right and elected on
June 2, 1997 to convert such loan, plus $38,056 in accrued but unpaid interest,
into the common stock of the Company at a 25% discount to Fair Market Value for
the thirty consecutive trading days prior to conversion. Such conversion
resulted in the issuance of 1,717,484 shares of the Company's common stock,
319,202 of which shares were sold by Mr. Frank to Floyd Panning, President of
EDI Components, at his cost of $100,000. An additional 319,202 of such shares
were sold by Mr. Frank to his son, Randall Frank, a Director of the Company, at
cost.
Between December, 1996 and April, 1997, Mr. Frank loaned EDI Components an
additional $150,000 at 10% interest. Mr. Frank had the right to convert said
loans into common stock of the Company and in August, 1997 converted such loans,
plus $7,110 in accrued interest, into 418,960 shares of the Company's Common
Stock at the rate of $0.375 per share. On October 7, 1997, Mr. Frank sold, at
his cost, 200,000 of such shares to his adult daughter, Tracy F. Frank (100,000
shares), and to Ronald J. O'Hare (50,000 shares) and Catherine Patterson (50,000
shares). Mr. O'Hare is currently employed by the Company and formerly served as
a Director until August 14, 1997. Ms. Patterson currently serves as Corporate
Secretary and Chief Financial Officer of the Company.
On August 14, 1997, Mr. Frank received 25,000 shares of Common Stock, valued at
$2.00 per share, as part of an initial issuance of shares to the investors of
EDI Components in accordance with the terms of the License Termination Agreement
entered into between Electropure and that company.
On October 1, 1997, Mr. Frank assigned, at no cost, warrants to purchase 4,000
shares of the Company's Common Stock at $0.50 per share to Mr. William Farnam, a
Director of the Company, who subsequently exercised same. Such warrants were
scheduled to expire at 5:00 P.M. on October 1, 1997.
On January 26, 1998, Mr. Frank loaned the Company, at 10% annual interest, the
sum of $200,000 and on January 29, 1998, he converted such loan into 206,186
shares of the Company's Common
32
<PAGE> 33
Stock at $0.97 per share. Conversion of such debt to equity resulted in an
expense to the Company as of October 31, 1998 in the sum of $7,217. On February
4, 1998, Mr. Frank loaned the Company an additional $200,000 under a two-year
note which also carried the right to convert the principal and interest accrued
thereon into Common Stock at a 25% discount to the fair market value. On March
25, 1998, Mr. Frank converted the additional $200,000 loan, together with $2,630
in accrued interest, into 136,473 shares of Common Stock. Under the loan
agreements with Mr. Frank, fair market value is determined as the mean of the
bid and asked prices of the Common Stock for the thirty (30) consecutive trading
days prior to the conversion date.
On January 15, 1999, Mr. Frank purchased 1,000,000 shares of the Company's
Series B Convertible Preferred Stock, $1 par value, and paid therefor the sum of
$1 million. Each share of Series B Stock carried four (4) votes per share and is
convertible into Common Stock, on a share-for-share basis, at any time at Mr.
Frank's option. Such Series B shares are also automatically convertible,
however, if either of the following events occur:
(1) Electropure shall make a public offering of any of its securities
under the terms of an Underwriting Agreement with a securities
dealer or underwriter; or
(2) Electropure's securities shall be admitted for listing on a
national securities exchange market system or the NASDAQ System
where its Common Stock may then be traded.
MR. RANDALL FRANK
On August 14, 1997, Mr. Frank received 25,000 shares of Common Stock, valued at
$2.00 per share, as part of an initial issuance of shares to the investors of
EDI Components in accordance with the terms of the License Termination Agreement
entered into between Electropure and that company.
On September 21, 1998, Mr. Frank exercised 1,250 and 1,112 warrants to purchase
Common Stock at $1.00 per share pursuant to the Company's private placement
offering to temporarily reduce the exercise price (originally $9,00 and $15.00,
respectively) of such warrants.
MR. RANDOLPH S. HEIDMANN
On August 12, 1998, the Company loaned Mr. Heidmann the sum of $3,500. The loan,
which bears interest at the lowest rate permitted, matured on October 1, 1998
and currently remains outstanding. If the parties mutually agree in the future,
the loan may be utilized as partial payment to acquire certain proprietary
technology under development by Mr. Heidmann. The technology in question relates
to a new design of a power supply which may be used with the Company's EDI water
treatment product.
In January, 1999, the Company loaned Mr. Heidmann an additional $5,000 for the
purposes set forth above and is in the process of negotiating a more definitive
arrangement relating to the referenced acquisition.
33
<PAGE> 34
MR. PANNING
On August 14, 1997, Mr. Panning received 50,000 shares of Common Stock, valued
at $2.00 per share, as part of an initial issuance of shares to the investors of
EDI Components, in accordance with the terms of the License Termination
Agreement between the Company and EDI Components. Mr. Panning was the founder,
the President and a principal shareholder of EDI Components.
Also on August 14, 1997, pursuant to the terms of a five-year Employment
Agreement entered into with the Company, Mr. Panning was granted 125,000
ten-years warrants to purchase Common Stock at the below fair market value of
$0.28125 per share. See Item 10 - "Executive Compensation - Employment
Agreement." The warrants are exercisable in increments of 25,000 each year on a
cumulative basis.
Concurrent with the execution of the above employment agreement, Mr. Panning was
named to the Company's Board of Directors.
On August 22, 1997, Mr. Panning exercised his right to purchase 50,000 shares of
the Company's Common Stock at $0.50 per share. Mr. Panning issued a Full
Recourse Promissory Note for the $25,000 purchase price, secured by the shares,
payable once the Company has reimbursed Mr. Panning for wages he deferred while
employed by EDI Components. Of the warrants exercised, 40,000 had been issued
pursuant to the July, 1992 license arrangement between the Company and EDI
Components whereby the Company issued warrants to all investors in EDI
Components in conjunction with their capital investment in that entity. The
balance of 10,000 warrants exercised had been issued to Mr. Panning in February,
1993 as a bonus for services rendered to the Company.
On March 25, 1998, Mr. Panning was granted 250,000 ten-year warrants to purchase
Common Stock at $1.125 per share. Such warrants are exercisable in annual
increments of 50,000, commencing on the grant date, to vest over a five-year
period; provided, however, that Mr. Panning is employed by the Company on the
exercise date.
WYATT TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
The Company issued 2,100,000 shares of Common Stock to Wyatt Technology
Corporation pursuant to a Technology Transfer Agreement entered into on October
25, 1997. See Item 1 - "BUSINESS - Acquisition of Intellectual Properties -
Multi-Angle Laser Light Scattering Instrumentation Technology." See also Item 3
- - "Legal Proceedings." On March 5, 1998, Wyatt Technology Corporation sold, in
private transactions at $1.00 per share, 100,000 shares of such Common Stock to
Mr. Anthony Frank and 50,000 to Mr. William F. Farnam, a principal shareholder
and a Director of the Company, respectively.
34
<PAGE> 35
MISCELLANEOUS
The Company's Board of Directors has adopted a policy that no transaction
between the Company and any officer, director, employee or members of their
family shall be entered into without the full disclosure of such transaction to
and the approval of such transaction by the non-interested members of the Board
of Directors. Furthermore, no agreements will be entered into regarding
royalties, distributorships, supply agreements, sales agreements, the borrowing
of money or the sale or granting of securities or options or the leasing or
buying of property by the Company (exclusive of routine supply or sales
agreements not exceeding $25,000), or any other type of contract over three
months or $50,000 without the approval of the Board of Directors.
35
<PAGE> 36
PART IV
ITEM 13. EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K.
(a) The following documents are filed as part of this report:
1. Financial Statements
Independent Auditor's Report
Balance Sheets as of October 31, 1998 and 1997
Statements of Operations for the years ended October 31, 1998 and
1997
Statements of Shareholders' Equity for the years ended October
31, 1998 and 1997
Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended October 31, 1998 and
1997
Notes to Financial Statements
2. Financial Statement Schedules.
No financial statement schedules have been included because they
are not applicable or not required under Regulation S-X.
(b) Reports on Form 8-K
A report on Form 8-K was filed on April 20, 1999 to report (1) a change
in the Registrant's independent accountants; (2) the sale of Series B
preferred stock of the Company; and (3) the Resignation of a Director of
the Registrant.
(c) Exhibits
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
3.1 Articles of Incorporation of the Registrant, as amended. ***
3.2 By-Laws of the Registrant, as amended. *
10.19 Form of Indemnity Agreement with each current Officer and
Director. **
10.47.8 License Termination Agreement with EDI Components dated August
14, 1997 (effective 08/05/97). ******
10.47.9 Employment Agreement with Floyd H. Panning dated August 14, 1997
(effective 08/05/97). ******
</TABLE>
36
<PAGE> 37
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
10.48 Technology License Agreement with Glegg Water Conditioning, Inc.
dated July 2, 1994. ****
10.48.1 Amended and Restated Technology Licence Agreement with Glegg
Water Conditioning, Inc. dated May 22, 1997. *****
10.51 Settlement Agreement with Economic Development Bank for Puerto
Rico dated May 16, 1997. *****
10.52 Technology Transfer Agreement with Wyatt Technology Corporation
dated October 25, 1997. *******
10.53 Assignment Agreement with Hydro Components, Inc. dated February
17, 1998.********
27. Financial Data Schedule.
</TABLE>
- ----------
* Previously filed on December 15, 1986 in connection with
Registration Statement of Registrant on Form S-1, File No.
33-10669.
** Incorporated by reference to Exhibit "B" to Registrant's
Definitive Proxy Statement, dated April 20, 1988, for the Annual
Meeting held May 18, 1988, as filed on May 4, 1988.
*** Previously filed on February 28, 1989 in connection with
Registrant's Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 31,
1988.
**** Previously filed on October 11, 1995 in connection with
Registrant's Form 10-KSB for the fiscal year ended October 31,
1994.
***** Previously filed on July 16, 1997 in connection with Registrant's
Form 10-KSB for the fiscal year ended October 31, 1996.
****** Previously filed on September 11, 1997 in connection with
Registrant's Form 10-QSB for the fiscal quarter ended July 31,
1997.
******* Previously filed on November 14, 1997 in connection with Schedule
13-D filed by Wyatt Technology Corporation.
******** Previously filed on March 5, 1998 in connection with Registrant's
Form 10-QSB for the fiscal quarter ended January 31, 1998.
37
<PAGE> 38
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1934, as amended, the
Registrant has duly caused this Report to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned thereunto.
Dated: April 16, 1999
ELECTROPURE, INC.
BY /S/ CATHERINE PATTERSON
-------------------------------------
CATHERINE PATTERSON
Chief Financial Officer
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1934, as amended, this
Report has been signed below by the following persons in the capacities and on
the dates indicated.
SIGNATURES
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
/S/ WILLIAM F. FARNAM Director April 16, 1999
- -----------------------------------
WILLIAM F. FARNAM
/S/ RANDALL P. FRANK Director April 16, 1999
- -----------------------------------
RANDALL P. FRANK
Director
- -----------------------------------
RANDOLPH S. HEIDMANN
/S/ FLOYD H. PANNING Chief Executive Officer April 16, 1999
- ----------------------------------- and Director
FLOYD H. PANNING
Chief Financial Officer
/S/ CATHERINE PATTERSON (Principal Financial and April 16, 1999
- ----------------------------------- Accounting Officer)
CATHERINE PATTERSON
</TABLE>
38
<PAGE> 39
ELECTROPURE, INC.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
As of October 31, 1998 and 1997 and
For the Years Ended
October 31, 1998 and 1997
<PAGE> 40
ELECTROPURE, INC.
Index to the Financial Statements
For the Years Ended October 31, 1998 and 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Financial Statements of Electropure, Inc.:
Report of Independent Auditors ............................. 1
Balance Sheets,
October 31, 1998 and 1997 ............................... 2
Statements of Operations
For the Years Ended October 31, 1998 and 1997 ........... 4
Statements of Shareholders' Equity
For the Years Ended October 31, 1998 and 1997 ........... 5
Statements of Cash Flows
For the Years Ended October 31, 1998 and 1997 ........... 7
Notes to the Financial Statements ................................. 10
</TABLE>
<PAGE> 41
KELLY & COMPANY
---------------------------------
Certified Public Accountants
3931 MacArthur Boulevard, Suite 205
Newport Beach, California 92660
(949) 474-7440
FAX (949) 474-7554
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
To the Board of Directors
Electropure, Inc.
We have audited the accompanying balance sheets of Electropure, Inc. as of
October 31, 1998 and 1997, and the related statements of operations,
shareholders' equity and cash flows for the years then ended. These financial
statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our
responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on
our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material
misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting
the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes
assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by
management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.
We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in
all material respects, the financial position of Electropure, Inc. as of October
31, 1998 and 1997, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the
years then ended, in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.
The accompanying financial statements have been prepared assuming that the
Company will continue as a going concern. As discussed in Note 2, the Company
has suffered recurring losses from operations, has negative cash flow from
operations and an accumulated deficit. In addition, the Company has relied
primarily on the sale of its securities and borrowings to provide the cash
needed for operations. These conditions raise substantial doubt about its
ability to continue as a going concern. Management's plan in regard to these
matters is discussed in Note 2. The financial statements do not include any
adjustments that might result from the outcome of this uncertainty.
Kelly & Company
Newport Beach, California
March 31, 1999
<PAGE> 42
ELECTROPURE, INC.
Balance Sheets
October 31, 1998 and 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASSETS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1998 1997
---------- ----------
<S> <C> <C>
Current assets:
Cash and equivalents $ 57,440 $ 367,680
Trade accounts receivable 161,225 10,459
Account receivable - related party -- 36,329
Notes receivable - related party 70,627 --
Inventory 320,532 19,085
Other current assets 24,505 4,900
---------- ----------
Total current assets 634,329 438,453
Property and equipment, net 134,045 3,412
Intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization 528,192 445,676
Other assets 90,000 --
---------- ----------
TOTAL ASSETS $1,386,566 $ 887,541
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
2
<PAGE> 43
ELECTROPURE, INC.
Balance Sheets
October 31, 1998 and 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1998 1997
------------ ------------
<S> <C> <C>
Current liabilities:
Trade accounts payable $ 126,843 $ 64,919
Notes payable to shareholders -- 29,737
Note payable to officer 6,216 --
Customer deposit 100,000 --
Other current liabilities 116,313 47,291
------------ ------------
Total current liabilities 349,372 141,947
Note payable to officer, net of
current portion 12,315 --
------------ ------------
Total liabilities 361,687 141,947
Commitments and contingencies
Redeemable convertible preferred stock; $0.01
par value; 2,600,000 shares authorized,
issued and outstanding 26,000 26,000
Shareholders' equity:
Series B convertible preferred stock; $1.00 par
value; 1,000,000 shares authorized; none issued
and outstanding (Notes 2 and 26) -- --
Common stock; $0.01 par value; 20,000,000
shares authorized; 8,618,925 and 7,734,293
shares issued and outstanding 86,189 77,343
Class B common stock; $0.01 par value; 83,983
shares authorized, issued and outstanding 840 840
Additional paid-in capital 20,032,205 18,244,073
Accumulated deficit (19,059,605) (17,552,662)
Notes receivable on common stock (60,750) (50,000)
------------ ------------
Total shareholders' equity 998,879 719,594
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY $ 1,386,566 $ 887,541
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
3
<PAGE> 44
ELECTROPURE, INC.
Statements of Operations
For the Years Ended October 31, 1998 and 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1998 1997
----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C>
Net sales $ 805,513 $ 25,989
Cost of sales 704,365 59,134
----------- -----------
Gross profit (loss) 101,148 (33,145)
----------- -----------
Operating costs and expenses:
Research and development 445,110 338,825
General and administrative 792,362 237,225
----------- -----------
1,237,472 576,050
----------- -----------
Loss from operations (1,136,324) (609,195)
Interest expense, net (395,870) (2,002)
----------- -----------
Loss before provision for income taxes and
extraordinary item (1,532,194) (611,197)
Provision for income tax (800) (800)
Extraordinary gain 26,051 --
----------- -----------
NET LOSS $(1,506,943) $ (611,997)
NET LOSS PER SHARE, BASIC AND DILUTED $ 0.19 $ 0.19
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
4
<PAGE> 45
ELECTROPURE, INC.
STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
FOR THE YEARS ENDED OCTOBER 31, 1998 AND 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Series B Class B Series B Class B
Convertible Common Common Convertible Common Common
Preferred Shares Shares Shares Preferred Stock Stock Stock
---------------- ------------ ------------ --------------- ------------ ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
BALANCE, OCTOBER 31, 1996,
AS PREVIOUSLY REPORTED -- 2,224,806 83,983 -- $ 22,248 $ 840
Prior period adjustments
(Note 23) -- -- -- -- -- --
BALANCE, OCTOBER 31, 1996,
AS RESTATED -- 2,224,806 83,983 -- 22,248 840
Common shares and warrants
issued in settlement of
litigation -- 100,000 -- -- 1,000 --
Common shares issued for
legal and consulting
services -- 20,000 -- -- 200 --
Common shares issued on
exercise of conversion
features granted in
prior years -- 1,864,933 -- -- 18,649 --
Issuance of conversion
features for contract
research and development -- -- -- -- -- --
Common shares issued on
exercise of conversion
features granted during
the year -- 418,960 -- -- 4,190 --
Common shares issued on
termination of EDI
Components agreement -- 362,500 -- -- 3,625 --
Common shares issued for
the purchase of
intellectual property
from Wyatt Technology -- 2,100,000 -- -- 21,000 --
Common shares issued to
private investors for cash -- 30,988 -- -- 310 --
Common shares issued upon
exercise of warrants -- 107,400 -- -- 1,074 --
Common shares and warrants
issued in private
placement offering -- 504,706 -- -- 5,047 --
Warrants granted on common
stock to employees
and consultants for
services -- -- -- -- -- --
Net loss -- -- -- -- -- --
BALANCE, OCTOBER 31, 1997 -- 7,734,293 83,983 -- $ 77,343 $ 840
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Additional
Paid-in Accumulated Note Receivable
Capital Deficit Common Stock Total
------------ ------------ --------------- ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
BALANCE, OCTOBER 31, 1996,
AS PREVIOUSLY REPORTED $ 16,080,709 $(16,025,246) $ (152,766) $ (74,215)
Prior period adjustments
(Note 23) 627,153 (915,419) 152,766 (135,500)
BALANCE, OCTOBER 31, 1996,
AS RESTATED 16,707,862 (16,940,665) -- (209,715)
Common shares and warrants
issued in settlement of
litigation 122,500 -- -- 123,500
Common shares issued for
legal and consulting
services 21,575 -- -- 21,775
Common shares issued on
exercise of conversion
features granted in
prior years (18,649) -- -- --
Issuance of conversion
features for contract
research and development 130,909 -- -- 130,909
Common shares issued on
exercise of conversion
features granted during
the year (4,190) -- -- --
Common shares issued on
termination of EDI
Components agreement 271,056 -- -- 274,681
Common shares issued for
the purchase of
intellectual property
from Wyatt Technology 426,146 -- -- 447,146
Common shares issued to
private investors for cash 11,310 -- -- 11,620
Common shares issued upon
exercise of warrants 52,626 -- (25,000) 28,700
Common shares and warrants
issued in private
placement offering 494,953 -- (25,000) 475,000
Warrants granted on common
stock to employees
and consultants for
services 27,975 -- -- 27,975
Net loss -- (611,997) -- (611,997)
BALANCE, OCTOBER 31, 1997 $ 18,244,073 $(17,552,662) $ (50,000) $ 719,594
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
5
<PAGE> 46
ELECTROPURE, INC.
STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
FOR THE YEARS ENDED OCTOBER 31, 1998 AND 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Series B Class B Series B Class B
Convertible Common Common Convertible Common Common
Preferred Shares Shares Shares Preferred Stock Stock Stock
---------------- ------------ ------------ --------------- ------------ ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
BALANCE, OCTOBER 31, 1997,
AS PREVIOUSLY REPORTED -- 7,734,293 83,983 -- $ 77,343 $ 840
Prior period adjustments
(Note 23) -- -- -- -- -- --
BALANCE, OCTOBER 31, 1997,
AS RESTATED -- 7,734,293 83,983 -- 77,343 840
Common shares issued for
option to purchase
building -- 60,000 -- -- 600 --
Common shares issued for
real estate broker
commission -- 6,579 -- -- 66 --
Paid in capital arising
from beneficial conversion
features on convertible
debt issued -- -- -- -- -- --
Common shares issued for
convertible debt -- 342,659 -- -- 3,427 --
Common shares issued on
exercise of options -- 12,000 -- -- 120 --
Common shares issued for
consulting and public
relations services -- 4,103 -- -- 40 --
Common shares and warrants
issued in private
placement offering -- 278,363 -- -- 2,784 --
Common shares issued on
exercise of warrants -- 180,928 -- -- 1,809 --
Payment of receivable
arising from issuance
of common stock -- -- -- -- -- --
Warrants granted on common
stock to employees and
consultants for services -- -- -- -- -- --
Net loss -- -- -- -- -- --
BALANCE, OCTOBER 31, 1998 -- 8,618,925 83,983 -- $ 86,189 $ 840
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Additional
Paid-in Accumulated Note Receivable
Capital Deficit Common Stock Total
------------ ------------ ---------------- ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
BALANCE, OCTOBER 31, 1997,
AS PREVIOUSLY REPORTED $ 17,999,946 $(17,121,280) $ (202,766) $ 754,083
Prior period adjustments
(Note 23) 244,127 (431,382) 152,766 (34,489)
BALANCE, OCTOBER 31, 1997,
AS RESTATED 18,244,073 (17,552,662) (50,000) 719,594
Common shares issued for
option to purchase
building 89,400 -- -- 90,000
Common shares issued for
real estate broker
commission 9,934 -- -- 10,000
Paid in capital arising
from beneficial conversion
features on convertible
debt issued 400,175 -- -- 400,175
Common shares issued for
convertible debt 406,420 -- -- 409,847
Common shares issued on
exercise of options 5,880 -- (6,000) --
Common shares issued for
consulting and public
relations services 7,460 -- -- 7,500
Common shares and warrants
issued in private
placement offering 547,216 -- -- 550,000
Common shares issued on
exercise of warrants 183,869 -- (29,750) 155,928
Payment of receivable
arising from issuance
of common stock -- -- 25,000 25,000
Warrants granted on common
stock to employees and
consultants for services 137,778 -- -- 137,778
Net loss -- (1,506,943) -- (1,506,943)
BALANCE, OCTOBER 31, 1998 $ 20,032,205 $(19,059,605) $ (60,750) $ 998,879
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
6
<PAGE> 47
ELECTROPURE, INC.
Statements of Cash Flows
For the Years Ended October 31, 1998 and 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1998 1997
----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C>
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net loss $(1,506,943) $ (611,997)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash
provided by operating activities:
Depreciation 11,937 123
Amortization 117,484 1,470
Uncollectible accounts receivable (7,278) --
Obsolete inventory -- 4,189
Issuance of warrants for services 137,778 40,375
Issuance of common stock for contract
research and development -- 405,590
Interest expense arising from issuance of
convertible debt 400,175 --
Services provided in payment of note
receivable - related party 69,627 --
Issuance of common stock for services 17,500 9,375
Extraordinary gain on settlement of debt (26,051) --
Increase (decrease) in assets:
Trade accounts receivable (145,965) (7,710)
Accounts receivable - related party 19,500 (36,329)
Inventories (216,239) (7,498)
Other current assets (19,606) 15,100
Increase (decrease) in liabilities:
Trade accounts payable 70,668 18,399
Customer deposit 100,000 --
Other current liabilities 70,884 25,745
CASH USED IN OPERATING ACTIVITIES (906,529) (143,168)
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
7
<PAGE> 48
ELECTROPURE, INC.
Statements of Cash Flows
For the Years Ended October 31, 1998 and 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1998 1997
----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C>
Cash flows used in investing activities
Purchase of property and equipment (117,670) (3,045)
Purchase of intangible assets (200,000) --
Increase in notes receivable, related parties (203,500) (2,101)
----------- -----------
CASH USED IN INVESTING ACTIVITIES (521,170) (5,146)
Cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities:
Principal payments on notes payable (13,469) --
Proceeds from the issuance of notes payable -
related parties 400,000 --
Payments on notes receivable for common stock 25,000 --
Proceeds from exercise of warrants 155,928 28,700
Proceeds from issuance of stock - private
placement 550,000 486,620
CASH PROVIDED BY FINANCING ACTIVITIES 1,117,459 515,320
Net increase (decrease) in cash (310,240) 367,006
CASH AT BEGINNING OF PERIOD 367,680 674
CASH AT END OF PERIOD $ 57,440 $ 367,680
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
8
<PAGE> 49
ELECTROPURE, INC.
Statements of Cash Flows
For the Years Ended October 31, 1998 and 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1998 1997
--------- ---------
<S> <C> <C>
Interest paid $ 3,251 $ 2,002
Income taxes paid $ 800 $ 800
Supplemental Schedule of Non-Cash Investing and Financing Activities
Acquisition of assets in non-cash transactions:
Assets acquired $ 200,108 $ 447,146
Accounts receivable, related party $ (19,306) --
Notes receivable satisfied $ (70,802) --
Issuance of note payable to officer $ (20,000) --
Issuance of common stock $ (90,000) $(447,146)
Satisfaction of settlement liability:
Issuance of note payable -- $ (12,000)
Issuance of common stock -- $(123,500)
Reduction of accrued liability -- $ 135,500
Reduction of notes receivable for issuances of
common stock considered uncollectible:
Reduction of notes receivable -- $(152,766)
Reduction of additional paid-in capital -- $ 152,766
Issuance of common stock for note receivable:
Notes receivable received $ 35,750 --
Issuance of common stock $ (35,750) --
Convertible debt retired by issuances of common stock:
Reduction of liabilities $ 409,847 --
Common stock $(409,847) --
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
9
<PAGE> 50
ELECTROPURE, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
For the Years Ended October 31, 1998 and 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS
Electropure, Inc. (the "Company") manufactures and markets
electrodeionization ("EDI") water treatment devices for commercial and
industrial high purity water applications. The Company holds patents on
its EDI product and markets it to original equipment manufacturers as a
specialized component for water treatment systems, whose major customers
include semiconductor, pharmaceutical and cosmetic companies, as well as
laboratories and petrochemical companies. The Company's Hydro Components
products are sanitary heat exchangers, sample coolers for sterile steam
and water, ion exchange membranes for electrodialysis,
electrodeposition, and electrochemical separations.
2. FINANCIAL RESULTS AND LIQUIDITY
The Company has incurred net losses of $1,506,943 and $611,997 in fiscal
years 1998 and 1997, respectively, and at October 31, 1998 has an
accumulated deficit of $19,059,605. Despite its negative cash flows from
operations of $906,529 and $143,168 in fiscal years 1998 and 1997,
respectively, the Company has been able to secure additional operating
capital through private funding sources. Subsequent to year end, the
Company issued 1,000,000 shares of its Series B Convertible Preferred
stock for $1,000,000. No assurances can be given that the Company can or
will continue to obtain sufficient working capital through borrowing,
the sale of the Company's securities, or that the sale of products will
generate sufficient revenues in the future to sustain ongoing
operations. The Company's ability to continue as a going concern will be
reliant upon its ability to do so. The Company believes, however, that
the current market interest in its products is strong and will enhance
its ability to generate sufficient revenues from the sale of the
Company's products.
3. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Revenue Recognition
Revenues on the sale of the Company's products are recognized when the
products are shipped.
Research and Development
Research and development expenditures are charged to expense as they are
incurred. The Company's research and development activities include its
proposed drinking water monitoring system utilizing the multi-angle
laser light scattering technology. Additionally, it includes efforts to
develop ion permeable membranes for application in its EDI product.
Contract research and development is expensed in relation to development
effort by the development contractor.
10
<PAGE> 51
ELECTROPURE, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
For the Years Ended October 31, 1998 and 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES, CONTINUED
Inventory
Inventory is stated at the lower of cost using the first in, first out
method, or market, and consists of components for both water
purification and ion exchange membrane products.
Property and Equipment
The Company records property and equipment at cost. Significant
improvements, which extend the life of the underlying asset, are
capitalized, and expenditures for normal maintenance and repairs are
charged to operations. Depreciation is provided for property and
equipment using the straight-line method over the expected useful lives
noted below. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the shorter of
the estimated useful life of the assets or the term of the lease.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Years
-----
<S> <C>
Automobiles 5
Furniture and fixtures 5
Leasehold improvements 3
</TABLE>
Intangible Assets
Intangible assets are the cost of intellectual properties described as
acquired patented technology and unpatentable process technology that
are amortized on a straight-line method over the shorter of the
estimated useful life of the technology or the patent term.
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets
The Company annually evaluates its long-lived assets, including
identifiable intangible assets, such as intellectual properties, for
potential impairment. When circumstances indicate that the carrying
amount of an asset is not recoverable, as demonstrated by the projected
undiscounted cash flows, an impairment loss is recognized. The Company's
management has determined that there was no such impairment present at
October 31, 1998 and 1997.
11
<PAGE> 52
ELECTROPURE, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
For the Years Ended October 31, 1998 and 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES, CONTINUED
Income Taxes
The Company accounts for deferred income taxes using the liability
method. Deferred income taxes are computed based on the tax liability or
benefit in future years of the reversal of temporary differences in the
recognition of income or deduction of expenses between financial and tax
reporting. Deferred tax assets and/or liabilities are classified as
current and noncurrent based on the classification of the related asset
or liability for financial reporting purposes, or based on the expected
reversal date for deferred taxes that are not related to an asset or
liability.
Stock Based Compensation
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 123,
"Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation," established accounting and
disclosure requirements using a fair value based method of accounting
for stock-based employee compensation plans.
As permitted by SFAS No. 123, the Company continues to account for
stock-based compensation using the intrinsic value method prescribed in
Accounting Principles Board Opinion ("APB") No. 25, "Accounting for
Stock Issued to Employees". Compensation cost for warrants and stock
options, if any, is measured as the excess of the quoted market price of
the Company's stock at the date of grant over the amount an employee
must pay to acquire the stock. Compensation cost is amortized over the
requisite vesting periods.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash equivalents include short term, highly liquid instruments with
original maturities of three months or less.
Earnings per Common Share
In 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued SFAS No. 128,
"Earnings Per Share". This pronouncement replaced the previously
reported primary and fully diluted earnings per share with basic and
diluted earnings per share ("EPS"), respectively. Earnings for the years
ended October 31, 1998 and 1997 have been calculated in accordance with
this pronouncement.
Basic EPS is computed by dividing income or loss available to common
shareholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding
for the year. Diluted EPS is similar to Basic EPS except that the
weighted average of common shares outstanding is increased to include
the number of additional common shares that would have been outstanding
if potentially dilutive common shares had been issued.
12
<PAGE> 53
ELECTROPURE, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
For the Years Ended October 31, 1998 and 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES, CONTINUED
Product Warranty Cost
Provision for estimated warranty cost is recorded at the time of sale
and periodically adjusted to reflect actual experience.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and
assumptions that affect amounts and disclosures reported in the
financial statements. Accordingly, actual amounts could differ from
these estimates.
Reclassifications
Certain reclassifications have been made to prior years financial
statements to conform with the 1998 presentation.
4. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
Notes Receivable
At October 31, 1998 and 1997, notes receivable from related parties
consisted of:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1998 1997
------- -------
<S> <C> <C>
Note receivable from a director, without
collateral, issued in August 1998, with
interest at 5.58% per annum, due
October 1, 1998. The Company extended the
due date to May 15, 1999 $ 3,500 --
Note receivable from a related party,
issued in February 1998, with interest
at 8% per annum, due in April 1998
The note is collateralized by all the assets
of the entity. The Company extended the due
date to April 30, 1999 67,127 --
-------
TOTAL NOTES RECEIVABLE RELATED PARTY $70,627 --
</TABLE>
13
<PAGE> 54
ELECTROPURE, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
For the Years Ended October 31, 1998 and 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS, CONTINUED
Purchase of a Vehicle
The Company purchased an automobile from an officer of the Company for
$23,000. The Company paid $3,000 in cash and issued a note payable for
the balance.
EDI Components Development and Marketing Agreement
In 1992, the Company entered into an agreement with EDI Components for
the development and marketing of its patented EDI technology. The
Company issued warrants and conversion features (the "securities") to
EDI Components for these development activities. The value of securities
granted, net of cash received by the Company, has been recorded as
research and development costs.
In August 1997, the agreement was terminated. Under the terms of the
termination, the Company obtained certain assets, assumed notes payable
and other obligations of EDI Components, and entered into an employment
agreement with EDI Component's president to become the president of the
Company (Note 10). In addition, the expiration date of warrants to
purchase 95,400 common shares was extended to October 1, 1997 and were
subsequently converted.
The termination agreement provided for the Company to issue 362,500
shares of its common stock. An additional 516,479 shares will be issued
if the market price of the Company's stock reaches certain levels
("contingent shares") as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Share Number of
Price Shares
----- ------
<S> <C>
$ 3.00 225,002
$ 4.00 168,753
$ 5.50 122,724
----------
516,479
</TABLE>
The value of the shares issued and the contingent shares has been
recorded as research and development costs.
14
<PAGE> 55
ELECTROPURE, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
For the Years Ended October 31, 1998 and 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS, CONTINUED
EDI Components Development and Marketing Agreement, Continued
The number of shares issuable upon exercise of the securities and the
value ascribed to the securities follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Number of
Shares
Issuable Value
---------- ----------
<S> <C> <C>
For the year ended October 31, 1997:
Conversion features 418,960 $ 130,909
Termination shares issued 362,500 113,281
Contingent shares 516,479 161,400
---------- ----------
1,297,939 405,590
For the years prior to November 1, 1996:
Conversion features and warrants 1,156,908 1,068,206
---------- ----------
2,454,847 $1,473,796
</TABLE>
15
<PAGE> 56
ELECTROPURE, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
For the Years Ended October 31, 1998 and 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5. NOTES RECEIVABLE FOR ISSUANCE OF COMMON STOCK
On various dates during the periods being reported upon, the Company
allowed certain individuals, including current and former officers and
directors, to purchase shares and to exercise options or warrants held
by them in exchange for notes receivable. The year end balances of notes
receivable related to the issuance of common stock is reflected as a
reduction of equity in the accompanying Statement of Shareholders'
Equity and is summarized as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
October 31,
--------------------
1998 1997
------- -------
<S> <C> <C>
Note receivable from an officer and director for the
issuance of 50,000 shares of common stock in August
1997, with interest at 5.49% per annum, due in July
2002. The note receivable is collateralized by the
shares issued for the note receivable (Note 10) $25,000 $25,000
Note receivable from a third party for the issuance of
25,000 shares of common stock in October 1997, with
interest at 5.61% per annum, due in October 1999. The
note is collateralized by the shares issued for the
note receivable. This note receivable was retired in
the year ended October 31, 1998 -- 25,000
Note receivable from a former director for the
issuance of 12,000 shares of common stock in July
1998, with interest at 5.51% per annum, due in July
1999. The note receivable is collateralized by the
shares issued for the note 6,000 --
Note receivable from a former director for the
issuance of 25,000 shares of common stock in July
1998, with interest at 5.63% per annum, due in July
1999. The note receivable is collateralized by the
shares issued for the note $29,750 --
------- -------
TOTAL $60,750 $50,000
=======
</TABLE>
Notes receivable arising from the issuance of 34,108 shares of common
stock from 1989 through 1993 to then officers, directors, and others
totalling $152,766 were determined not to
16
<PAGE> 57
ELECTROPURE, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
For the Years Ended October 31, 1998 and 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
be realizable and have been retroactively reclassified as
a permanent reduction of additional paid-in capital as of
November 1, 1996 (Note 23).
6. PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
Property and equipment consist of the following:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1998 1997
--------- ---------
<S> <C> <C>
Automobiles $ 23,000 --
Furniture and fixtures 94,711 $ 3,584
Leasehold improvements 28,443 --
--------- ---------
146,154 3,584
Less: accumulated depreciation (12,109) (172)
--------- ---------
TOTAL PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET $ 134,045 $ 3,412
</TABLE>
Depreciation expense for the years ended October 31, 1998
and 1997 was $11,937 and $123, respectively.
7. INTANGIBLE ASSETS
The Company, in two separate transactions, acquired certain intangible
assets described as intellectual properties. The assets are stated at
cost as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1998 1997
--------- ---------
<S> <C> <C>
Multi-angle laser light scattering
instrumentation (Note 21) $ 447,146 $ 447,146
Ion exchange membrane technology (Note 21) 200,000 --
--------- ---------
Total intangible assets 647,146 447,146
Less: accumulated amortization (118,954) (1,470)
--------- ---------
TOTAL INTANGIBLE ASSETS, NET $ 528,192 $ 445,676
</TABLE>
In addition, the Company holds two patents on certain
electrodeionization water treatment ("EDI") technology. The original
patent was issued in August 1984 and will expire in 2001. A patent on
design improvements was granted in October 1990 and will expire in 2007.
17
<PAGE> 58
ELECTROPURE, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
For the Years Ended October 31, 1998 and 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
8. NOTES PAYABLE TO OFFICER AND SHAREHOLDERS
Notes payable to officer and shareholders consist of the following:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1998 1997
-------- --------
<S> <C> <C>
Note payable to shareholder, without collateral,
with an interest rate of 10% per annum, originally
due October 1981 (Note 11) -- $ 17,308
Note payable to shareholder, without collateral,
with interest at 8% per annum. This note was paid
in full January 1998 -- 12,429
Note payable to officer, collateralized by an
automobile, with interest at 9% per annum,
payable in monthly installments of $636 through
July 15, 2001 $ 18,531 --
-------- --------
Total notes payable to officer and shareholders 18,531 29,737
Less: Current portion (6,216) (29,737)
-------- --------
LONG TERM PORTION OF NOTES PAYABLE TO OFFICER
AND SHAREHOLDERS $ 12,315 --
</TABLE>
Maturities of notes payable for the years ending October 31:
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
1999 $ 6,216
2000 6,800
2001 5,515
</TABLE>
Interest expense for the years ended October 31, 1998 and 1997 was
$403,863 and $2,002, respectively.
18
<PAGE> 59
ELECTROPURE, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
For the Years Ended October 31, 1998 and 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
9. DEFERRED INCOME TAXES
The components of the provision for income taxes are as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1998 1997
---- ----
<S> <C> <C>
Current tax expense:
Federal -- --
State $800 $800
---- ----
800 800
---- ----
Deferred tax expense (benefit):
Federal -- --
State -- --
---- ----
---- ----
---- ----
Total provision $800 $800
==== ====
</TABLE>
Significant components of the Company's deferred income tax assets and
liabilities at October 31, 1998 and 1997 are as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
October 31
-----------------------------
1998 1997
----------- -----------
Deferred income tax assets:
<S> <C> <C>
Net operating loss carryforward $ 4,557,259 $ 3,945,156
Allowance for doubtful accounts 10,009 37,034
Amortization 36,375 --
Other 7,658 3,150
----------- -----------
Total deferred income tax asset 4,611,301 3,985,340
Valuation allowance (4,611,301) (3,985,340)
----------- -----------
Net deferred income tax asset -- --
=========== ===========
</TABLE>
Reconciliation of the effective income tax rate to the U.S. statutory
income tax rate is as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1998 1997
------ ------
<S> <C> <C>
Tax expense at U.S. statutory income tax rate (34.0)% (34.0)%
State tax provision 0.1 0.1
Change in valuation allowance 34.0 34.0
------ ------
EFFECTIVE INCOME TAX RATE 0.1% 0.1%
</TABLE>
The Company also has federal and state net operating loss carryforwards
of $12,174,759 and $4,492,912, respectively, available to offset future
taxable income through 2018.
19
<PAGE> 60
ELECTROPURE, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
For the Years Ended October 31, 1998 and 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
10. COMMITMENTS
Lease
In November 1997, the Company entered into a three-year lease agreement
commencing on February 1, 1998 on a facility located in Laguna Hills,
California, that houses the corporate offices, research and development,
and products facilities. Monthly lease payments are $16,000 through
January 1999, $16,480 through January 2000 and $16,974 through January
2001. The Company has an option to extend the lease for two (2)
three-year terms at pre-determined lease rates. Also, the Company issued
60,000 shares of its common stock for an option to purchase the building
at any time prior to January 31, 2001 for $2,300,000, or $2,300,000 plus
the cumulative change in the Consumer Price Index from inception of the
lease to the date of exercise if exercised after August 1999. The value
of the shares issued for the facility purchase option was $90,000.
Effective March 1, 1998, the Company entered into a two-year sub-lease
agreement for a portion of the facility to a third party at the rate of
$6,500 per month.
At October 31, 1998, the future minimum lease payments and sublease
rental income are as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Minimum Minimum
Lease Sublease
Payments Rental Income
---------- ---------------
<S> <C> <C>
1999 $196,320 $ 78,000
2000 202,206 26,000
2001 50,922 --
-------- --------
Total $449,448 $104,000
</TABLE>
Rent expense was $151,956 and $9,392 for the years ended October 31,
1998 and 1997, respectively. Sublease rental income was $58,500 for the
year ended October 31, 1998.
Bonus
As an incentive, the Company has agreed to pay a one-time performance
bonus of $65,000 to the former owner of the ion exchange membrane
technology when the Company successfully meets a certain level of
quality in treated water for a specific minimum period of time as a
result of the utilization of ion exchange membrane technology purchased
in February 1998 (Note 21). The Company has not as yet met the criteria
described in the acquisition agreement.
20
<PAGE> 61
ELECTROPURE, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
For the Years Ended October 31, 1998 and 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
10. COMMITMENTS, CONTINUED
Employment Contract
Effective in August 1997, in connection with the EDI Components
development and marketing agreement termination, the Company entered
into a five-year employment agreement with Mr. Floyd Panning, now the
Company's President and Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Panning has an
option to extend the agreement for two years and was granted 125,000
warrants to purchase common stock at $0.28125 per share. The employment
agreement also provides for the following:
a. A base monthly salary of $6,500 that increased to $8,000 per
month once the Company realized a minimum of $1 million in
additional financing. Mr. Panning's base monthly salary increased
pursuant to this provision effective in April 1998. Annually, the
base salary automatically increases by five (5%) percent.
b. The Company agreed it would, upon realizing the above minimum
financing, pay Mr. Panning an additional compensation of
approximately $28,000, which has been accrued.
c. The right to nominate one person for a seat on the Company's
Board of Directors during the term of his employment. Under the
terms of this provision, Mr. Panning was nominated and was voted
onto the Company's Board of Directors.
d. Mr. Panning may terminate his employment contract at any time,
and he retains the rights to the following percentages of his
base salary for the period covered by this agreement:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year of Salary Percentage
Employment Contract Retained
------------------- --------
<S> <C>
1 60%
2 70%
3 80%
4 90%
5 100%
</TABLE>
e. Termination of the employment contract by the Company shall
immediately vest all 125,000 warrants granted to Mr. Panning. In
addition, if the termination by the Company of Mr. Panning's
employment is without cause, the 516,479 contingent shares
issuable in connection with the termination agreement (Note 4)
shall be issued unless Mr. Panning's successor is approved by a
majority vote of certain EDI Components' shareholders (excluding
Mr. Panning).
21
<PAGE> 62
ELECTROPURE, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
For the Years Ended October 31, 1998 and 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
11. GAIN ON THE EXTINGUISHMENT OF DEBT
Lapse in Statutory Collection Period
In the year ended October 31, 1998, the Company received a legal
determination that state statutes with regard to enforcement of the
collectability of a $17,308 note payable had lapsed and the Company was
no longer required to recognize the debt. Accordingly, the resulting
gain on the lapsing of the state statutes on the debt has been
recognized as an extraordinary item. There is no income tax effect on
this extraordinary item.
Settlement of Judgment
On October 31, 1998, the Company settled a $30,744 liability recorded as
an account payable resulting from a 1993 default judgment rendered
against the Company for unpaid corporate credit card charges. The
Company paid a total of $22,000 to satisfy the judgment. The resulting
gain on settlement of $8,744 has been recognized as an extraordinary
item. There is no income tax effect on this extraordinary item.
12. ROYALTIES
In 1986, the former owner of the EDI patents, who was an original
officer of the Company, entered into agreements to pay two separate
royalties of $42.00 and $9.00 for each EDI water purification unit sold
by the Company or any sublicensees to a group of individuals. The
royalty at $42.00 per unit continues until the last patent related to
these products expires. These patents expire through August 14, 2001.
The royalty at $9.00 per unit is payable until a maximum of $525,600 is
paid.
The Company sold 81 and 12 EDI water purification units in fiscal years
1998 and 1997, respectively. No units affected by these royalty
agreements were sold prior to fiscal year 1997. The amounts due under
the $42.00 per unit royalty totalled $3,402 and $504 in fiscal years
1998 and 1997, respectively. Under the $9.00 per unit royalty the
amounts totalled $729 and $108 in fiscal years 1998 and 1997,
respectively. These royalties have been accrued and have not been paid.
22
<PAGE> 63
ELECTROPURE, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
For the Years Ended October 31, 1998 and 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
13. LICENSED TECHNOLOGY AGREEMENTS
During the period that EDI Components held the rights to license the EDI
technology, nonexclusive licenses for the worldwide use of the
technology were issued to Glegg Water Consulting, Inc. ("Glegg") and to
Polymetrics, Inc. ("Polymetrics"). The Glegg license is a paid up
license with no continuing royalty requirements. The license provides
Glegg the right to sublicense the technology to its subsidiaries and
affiliates and to a Japanese entity. The Polymetrics license has
continuing royalty requirements with royalty fee percentages of five (5)
percent of net sales of greater than 100 gallon per minute ("gpm")
systems and ten (10) percent of the less than 100 gpm systems.
Polymetrics has not sold any units subject to the license since
inception of the agreements.
While the licenses were issued by EDI Technology, the termination of the
marketing and development agreement transferred the license agreement to
the Company.
14. CONTINGENCIES
Concentrations of Risk
During fiscal year 1998, $362,480 of the Company's sales of water and
wastewater treatment products were from EDI products, and $443,033 was
generated from the sale of ion membrane exchange products. The Company
had $25,989 in sales of its EDI products and no sales of its ion
exchange membrane products during fiscal year 1997.
One customer represents 67% of the Company's sales of its ion exchange
membrane products for the year ended October 31, 1998, and at October
31, 1998 accounts receivable included $137,000 due from this customer,
which represents approximately 85% of total trade accounts receivable at
that date. For the year ended October 31, 1997, sales to a different
customer represented 62% of sales. Management believes the trade
accounts receivable are fully collectible, and therefore no provision
has been recorded for uncollectable trade accounts receivable.
Approximately 80% of the Company's sales of EDI products during fiscal
year 1998 were made to foreign customers. Two of such foreign customers
account for 23% and 10% of EDI product sales, respectively. The Company
makes all sales and receives all payments in U.S. dollars on all foreign
sales.
23
<PAGE> 64
ELECTROPURE, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
For the Years Ended October 31, 1998 and 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
15. STOCK BASED COMPENSATION PLANS
Employees
The Company does not currently have a formal stock option plan that
provides for the granting of options to officers, key employees, and
vendors. From time-to-time the Company has granted warrants in order to
attract and retain personnel, provide for performance incentives, and
promote the success of the Company by providing warrant holders the
opportunity to acquire an equity interest.
The following table summarizes information about warrants granted to
employees by the Company. Unless otherwise noted, warrants vest on an
annual pro rata basis over various periods of time and are exercisable,
upon proper notice, in whole or in part at any time upon vesting.
Generally, unvested warrants terminate when an employee leaves the
Company. The warrants granted have contractual lives ranging from 3 to
10 years. The weighted average fair value of the warrants granted during
the years ended October 31, 1998 and 1997 were $1.07 and $0.36,
respectively.
In addition, the Company from time to time grants warrants to
nonemployees in consideration for goods or services.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Weighted
Average
Number of Exercise
Warrants Price
---------- ----------
<S> <C> <C>
Balance at October 31, 1996 37,093 $ 0.50
Granted 180,000 0.36
Exercised -- --
Canceled (1,615) 0.50
---------- ----------
Outstanding at October 31, 1997 215,478 0.39
Granted 1,255,000 1.07
Exercised (12,000) 0.50
Canceled (4,978) 2.59
---------- ----------
OUTSTANDING AT OCTOBER 31, 1998 1,453,500 $ 0.97
</TABLE>
Issuances by the Company of warrants at exercise prices below fair
market value at the date of grant resulted in an expense to the Company
of $116,920 and $7,475 for the years ended October 31, 1998 and 1997,
respectively.
24
<PAGE> 65
ELECTROPURE, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
For the Years Ended October 31, 1998 and 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
15. STOCK BASED COMPENSATION PLANS, CONTINUED
Employees, Continued
The Company continues to account for stock-based compensation to
employees using the intrinsic value method prescribed in APB No. 25,
"Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees," under which no compensation
cost for warrants is recognized for warrant awards granted at or above
fair market value. Had compensation expense for warrant awards been
determined based upon fair values at the grant dates in accordance with
SFAS No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation," the Company's
pro forma net loss and net loss per share would have been the amounts
indicated below. For purposes of pro forma disclosures, the estimated
fair value of the warrants is amortized over the vesting periods of the
warrants. The pro forma effects of applying SFAS No. 123 are not
indicative of future results because this statement does not apply to
awards granted prior to fiscal year 1997.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
October 31
-----------------------------------
1998 1997
------------- -------------
<S> <C> <C>
Net loss:
As reported $ (1,506,943) $ (611,997)
Pro forma $ (1,764,770) $ (633,717)
Loss per share:
As reported $ (0.19) $ (0.19)
Pro forma $ (0.21) $ (0.19)
</TABLE>
For purposes of the above pro forma calculation, the fair value of
warrants granted by the Company in fiscal year 1998 and 1997, is
estimated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the weighted
average assumptions listed below:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Years ended October 31
-------------------------
1998 1997
-------- --------
<S> <C> <C>
Risk-free interest rate 4.83% 5.25%
Expected dividend yield 0 0
Expected stock price volatility 2.106 2.148
Expected life in years 10 10
</TABLE>
Summary information about the Company's warrants outstanding at October
31, 1998:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Weighted
Average Weighted Weighted
Range of Warrants Remaining Average Warrants Average
Exercise Outstanding Contractual Exercise Exercisable Exercise
Prices October 31, 1998 Life Price October 31, 1998 Price
------------ ---------------- ----------- --------- ---------------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
$.28 - $.58 163,500 8.3 $ 0.31 88,500 $ 0.36
$.58 -$.88 355,000 9.1 $ 0.80 28,000 $ 0.72
$.88 - $1.78 935,000 9.5 $ 1.15 425,000 $ 1.16
--------- ---------
1,453,500 541,500
========= =========
</TABLE>
25
<PAGE> 66
ELECTROPURE, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
For the Years Ended October 31, 1998 and 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
15. STOCK BASED COMPENSATION PLANS, CONTINUED
Nonemployees
Issued to Directors and Officers for Services
On August 14, 1997, the Board of Directors authorized the granting of
10,000 warrants to purchase common stock to each Director as
consideration for their services. Accordingly, 50,000 warrants with a
ten year term were issued to five (5) Directors in August 1997 at an
exercise price of $0.375 per share. An additional 10,000 warrants with a
ten year term at an exercise price of $0.68 per share were issued to a
director, who joined the Board in October 1997. Two of the Directors,
one of whom is the Company's President, are employees of the Company.
Warrants issued to Directors who were also employed by the Company were
accounted for under Accounting Principles Board Opinion ("APB") No. 25,
"Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees,". The warrants were granted
at prices which equaled or exceeded the fair value of the Company's
common stock at the date of grant. Consequently, no expense was
recognized in connection with the issuance of these 20,000 warrants.
However, the fair value of the warrants to purchase 40,000 shares of
common stock granted to the nonemployee directors of $20,500 was
recognized as expense for the fiscal year ended October 31, 1997.
In August 1998, the Board of Directors granted each of the five
Directors of the Company 10,000 warrants with a ten year term to
purchase common stock at $1.375 per share. Of such warrants, 10,000 were
issued to the President of the Company, and accounted for under APB No.
25. The issuance of these warrants for services resulted in an aggregate
expense of $6,000 in fiscal year 1998.
Issued for Consulting Services
In May 1997, the Company issued 20,000 warrants to purchase common stock
exercisable at $1.00 per share until May 2007 to an individual who
assisted the Company in the Economic Development Bank of Puerto Rico
settlement. The fair value of the warrants of $12,400 was included in
the settlement cost.
In March 1998, the Company granted 20,000 warrants to purchase common
stock at $1.125 per share for consulting services. The warrants expire
on March 31, 2002. The fair value of the services provided was $2,000
and is recorded as a consulting expense in fiscal year 1998.
26
<PAGE> 67
ELECTROPURE, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
For the Years Ended October 31, 1998 and 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
15. STOCK BASED COMPENSATION PLANS, CONTINUED
Nonemployees, Continued
Issued for Consulting Services, Continued
In May 1998, the Company entered into a three-year agreement for
financial consulting services for which it paid $2,500 per month and
also granted five-year warrants to purchase 175,000 shares of common
stock at $1.06 per share. The fair value of the consulting services was
$90,000 and is being charged to expense over the life of the consulting
agreement. Consulting expense of $12,857 was recognized for the fiscal
year ended October 31, 1998.
The Company accounts for stock-based compensation awards to nonemployees
based upon fair values at the grant dates in accordance with SFAS No.
123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation". The consideration
received for the issuance of stock purchase warrants is based on the
fair value of the goods or services received or the warrants issued,
whichever is more reliably measurable. When the value of the services is
based on the fair value of the warrants that is based on the
Black-Scholes Option Pricing Model. The fair value of the warrants is
amortized over the period the Company received the goods or services.
A summary of the activity relating to warrants granted to nonemployees
as of October 31, 1998 and 1997 and changes during the years then ended
are presented below:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Weighted
Warrants Average
Outstanding Price Exercise
----------- ---------- ----------
<S> <C> <C>
BALANCE AT OCTOBER 31, 1996 688,762 $ 2.88
Granted 410,000 1.56
Exercised (107,400) 1.50
Canceled -- --
---------- ----------
OUTSTANDING AT OCTOBER 31, 1997 991,362 2.60
Granted 382,500 1.80
Exercised (180,928) 2.80
Canceled (51,600) 1.50
---------- ----------
OUTSTANDING AT OCTOBER 31, 1998 1,141,334 $ 2.35
</TABLE>
27
<PAGE> 68
ELECTROPURE, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
For the Years Ended October 31, 1998 and 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
15. STOCK BASED COMPENSATION PLANS, CONTINUED
Nonemployees, Continued
Issued for Consulting Services, Continued
Summary information about the Company's warrants outstanding at October
31, 1998 is as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Weighted
Average Weighted Weighted
Range of Warrants Remaining Average Warrants Average
Exercise Outstanding Contractual Exercise Exercisable Exercise
Prices October 31, 1998 Life in Years Price October 31, 1998 Price
------------ ---------------- ------------- --------- ---------------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
$.28 - $.50 51,010 7.46 $ 0.22 51,010 $ 0.22
$.50 - $1.00 130,000 8.70 $ 0.92 130,000 $ 0.92
$1.00 - $1.50 281,744 8.93 $ 1.14 131,744 $ 1.24
$1.50 - $3.00 607,500 8.16 $ 2.00 457,500 $ 2.00
$3.00 - $10.00 24,514 3.20 $ 9.06 24,514 $ 9.06
$10.00 - $15.00 46,566 1.65 $ 15.00 46,566 $ 15.00
--------- ---------
1,141,334 841,334
</TABLE>
The values of the consideration received for stock purchase warrants
that were based on the values of the warrants granted were estimated
using the Black-Scholes Option Pricing Model with the following weighted
average assumptions for grants made in 1998 and 1997:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Years ended October 31
-------------------------
1998 1997
-------- --------
<S> <C> <C>
Risk-free interest rate 4.83% 5.25%
Expected dividend yield 0 0
Expected stock price volatility 2.106 2.148
Expected life in years 10 10
</TABLE>
28
<PAGE> 69
ELECTROPURE, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
For the Years Ended October 31, 1998 and 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
16. DISCLOSURES ABOUT FAIR VALUES OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
The estimated fair value amounts of all financial instruments on the
Company's October 31, 1998 and 1997 balance sheets have been determined
by using available market information and appropriate valuation
methodologies. Fair value is described as the amount at which the
instrument could be exchanged in a current transaction between informed
willing parties, other than in a forced liquidation. However,
considerable judgment is necessarily required in interpreting market
data to develop the estimates of fair value. Accordingly, the estimates
presented herein are not necessarily indicative of the amounts that the
Company could realize in a current market exchange. The use of different
market assumptions and/or estimation methodologies may have a material
effect on the estimated fair value amounts. The Company does not have
any off balance sheet financial instruments.
The following methods and assumptions were used by the Company in
estimating fair value disclosures for financial statements:
Cash and equivalents, accounts receivable, inventory, other
current assets, accounts payable, current portion of notes
payable, and certain other current liability amounts are reported
in the balance sheet at approximate fair value due to the short
term maturities of these instruments.
The fair value of noncurrent notes payable is estimated by
determining the net present value of future payments. The
carrying amount on the balance sheet approximates the fair value
as the interest rates approximate current market rates.
29
<PAGE> 70
ELECTROPURE, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
For the Years Ended October 31, 1998 and 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
17. LOSS PER COMMON SHARE
In the year ended October 31, 1997, the Company adopted SFAS No. 128,
"Earnings per Share". Loss per common share has been calculated in
accordance with this statement.
The computations of net loss per common share for the years ended
October 31, 1998 and 1997, are as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1998 1997
----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C>
Net loss available to common shareholders:
Loss before extraordinary gain $(1,532,194) $ (611,977)
Extraordinary gain 26,051 --
----------- -----------
NET LOSS AVAILABLE TO COMMON STOCKHOLDERS $(1,506,143) $ (611,977)
WEIGHTED AVERAGE SHARES OUTSTANDING 8,240,951 3,268,722
=========== ===========
Basic and diluted loss per common share:
Loss before extraordinary gain $ (0.19) $ (0.19)
Extraordinary gain -- --
----------- -----------
NET LOSS $ (0.19) $ (0.19)
=========== ===========
</TABLE>
The effect of potentially dilutive securities were not considered in the
computation of diluted earnings per share because to do so would have
been antidilutive for the periods presented.
During the year ended October 31, 1998, 433,019 warrants/options were
excluded from the computation of diluted loss per share because the
exercise price of such warrants/options, ranging from $2.00 to $15.00
per share, was greater than the average market price of the common
stock. Warrants and options to purchase 869,525 shares of common stock
at exercise prices ranging from $.68 to $16.25 were outstanding during
fiscal year 1997, but were not included in the computation of diluted
earnings (loss) per share because the exercise price of such warrants
and options was greater than the market price of the common stock.
30
<PAGE> 71
ELECTROPURE, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
For the Years Ended October 31, 1998 and 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
18. COMMON STOCK TRANSACTIONS
Shares Issued in Connection with Legal Settlement
In the year ended October 31, 1997, the Company issued 100,000 shares of
its common stock with a fair market value of $62,500 in settlement of a
judgment against the Company and various officers and former directors
in fiscal year 1996. The settlement also provided for the issuance of
100,000 five-year warrants to purchase common stock at $1.00 per share
with a fair value of $61,000 and a $12,000 promissory note to cover
certain costs and attorneys fees. The warrants are exercisable at any
time until June 13, 2002.
In 1997, the Company also issued 20,000 shares of common stock with a
fair market value of $9,375 and 20,000 ten-year warrants to purchase
common stock at $1.00 per share with a fair value of $12,400 to an
individual who provided consulting and legal services in connection with
the legal settlement.
Common Stock Issued in Exchange for Debt
In fiscal year 1998, the Company borrowed $400,000 from a major
shareholder. The terms of the notes provided for conversion into shares
of the Company's common stock at any time. The intrinsic value of the
beneficial conversion features was determined, and additional paid-in
capital and interest expense of $400,000 was recognized. The Company
issued 342,659 shares of common stock to the major shareholder of the
Company at fair market value of $672,897 in connection with the
conversion of convertible notes payable and accrued interest totalling
$409,847.
In fiscal year 1997, the Company issued 1,864,933 shares of common stock
in connection with conversion features granted in prior years. Of these
shares, 1,717,484 were issued to an individual who thereby became a
major shareholder of the Company. The Company recognized research and
development expense and an increase to additional paid-in capital of
$1,068,206 upon grant of the conversion features in prior years. Upon
conversion, the Company recorded an increase in common stock and a
corresponding decrease in additional paid-in capital for the par value
of the shares issued.
In fiscal year 1997, the Company issued 418,960 shares of common stock
to a major shareholder of the Company in connection with the exercise
conversion features issued during the year. The Company recognized
research and development expense and an increase to additional paid-in
capital of $130,909 upon grant of the conversion features. Upon
conversion to common stock, the Company recorded an increase in common
stock and corresponding decrease in additional paid-in capital for the
par value of the shares issued.
31
<PAGE> 72
ELECTROPURE, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
For the Years Ended October 31, 1998 and 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
18. COMMON STOCK TRANSACTIONS, CONTINUED
Common Shares Issued to EDI Shareholders
In connection with the License Termination Agreement with EDI Components
(Note 4), the Company issued 362,500 shares of common stock to the
investors of EDI Components. Of these shares, 25,000 were issued to a
major shareholder of the Company. The Company also agreed to issue these
individuals additional shares as described in Note 4. The 362,500 shares
issued and the additional 516,479 contingently issuable shares were
valued at $.3125, the market price per share at the date of termination
of the agreement, which totals $274,681. This amount has been recorded
as research and development expense.
Common Shares Issued for the Acquisition of Technology
On October 25, 1997, the Company issued 2,100,000 shares of its common
stock at market value of $447,146 to Wyatt Technology Corporation to
acquire exclusive rights to certain proprietary intellectual property
(Notes 22 and 26).
Common Shares Issued to Private Investors
The Company in fiscal year 1997 issued 30,988 shares of common stock, at
$0.375 per share to private investors.
Common Shares Issued for Warrants Exercised
During fiscal years 1998 and 1997, warrants were exercised resulting in
the purchase of 25,000 shares for $29,750 and 107,400 shares of common
stock for $53,700, respectively. Notes receivable for $35,750 for 1998
and $25,000 for 1997, were issued as partial payment of the shares
issued. These receivables are recorded as a reduction of shareholders'
equity.
In fiscal year 1998, the Company offered to reduce the exercise price to
$1.00 per share on any warrants exercised with original exercise prices
greater than $2.00 per share. As a result, warrants were exercised for
the purchase of 155,928 shares of common stock for $155,928.
32
<PAGE> 73
ELECTROPURE, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
For the Years Ended October 31, 1998 and 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
18. COMMON STOCK TRANSACTIONS, CONTINUED
During fiscal year 1998, options were exercised resulting in the
purchase of 12,000 shares of common stock for $6,000. A note receivable
for $6,000 was issued as payment of the shares issued. This receivable
is recorded s a reduction of shareholders' equity.
Private Placement Offering
In fiscal year 1997, the Company in a private placement offering sold
units consisting of 25,000 shares of common stock and 12,500 redeemable
three-year warrants to purchase common stock at an exercise price of
$2.00 per share. The warrants are redeemable at $.05 per warrant if the
price of common stock equals or exceeds $4.00 per share for 30
consecutive business days. The Company issued units representing 500,000
shares of common stock for net proceeds of $475,000. A note receivable
was also issued in the amount of $25,000 for common stock units in
regards to the private placement. The receivable is recorded as a
reduction of shareholders' equity. This receivable was collected in
fiscal year 1998. In connection with the private placement, the Company
issued 4,706 shares of common stock, as a finders' fees.
In April 1998, in conjunction with a private placement offering, the
Company issued 275,000 shares of common stock and 137,500 warrants to
purchase common stock at $3.00 per share, and received net proceeds of
$550,000. The warrants are redeemable by the Company at $.05 per warrant
if the price of common stock equals or exceeds $4.00 per share for 30
consecutive business days. In connection with the private placement, the
Company issued 3,363 shares of common stock as a finder's fee.
Common Shares Issued in Consideration of an Option to Purchase Real
Estate
In November 1997, the Company issued 60,000 shares of common stock with
a fair market value of $90,000 at the date of issue to the lessors of
the Company's new facility in exchange for a three-year option to
purchase the building. The $90,000 value attributable to the option to
purchase the building has been recorded as an other asset.
On April 1, 1998, the Company issued 6,579 shares of common stock to the
real estate broker who negotiated the lease on the Company's current
facility in satisfaction of his $10,000 commission.
In May 1998, the Company issued 4,103 shares of common stock, valued at
$7,500, or $1.48 per share, to a consulting firm in partial payment for
public relations services to be rendered. The value of the transaction
has been expensed and added to common stock and additional paid-in
capital.
33
<PAGE> 74
ELECTROPURE, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
For the Years Ended October 31, 1998 and 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
19. STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Voting Rights
Each share of the Company's common stock is entitled to one vote per
share, and the Class B common stock of the Company is entitled to eight
votes per share. The holders of the outstanding Convertible Preferred
Stock of the Company are entitled to one vote per share. Each share of
Series B Convertible Preferred Stock, which was issued in January 1999,
is entitled to four votes per share.
Liquidation Preferences
In the event of liquidation or dissolution of the Company, the holders
of the common stock, Class B common stock and redeemable convertible
preferred stock, subject to the rights of the holders of preferred
stock, shall be entitled to receive an equal amount per share, provided,
however, in no case shall each share of redeemable convertible preferred
stock receive more than an amount equal to $0.01 per share and in no
case shall each share of Class B common stock receive an amount greater
than 80% of the amount each share of common stock receives, subject to
the restrictions imposed by the Commissioner of Corporations of the
State of California as described in the following paragraph. See Note 25
for subsequently issued preferred stock with preferences in liquidation.
Class B Common Stock
The Class B Common Stock is entitled to non-stock dividends and
liquidation payments equal to 80% of those paid to the common stock. All
of the Class B Common Stock is held by one individual and may not be
transferred or assigned by the owner. These shares automatically convert
on a share for share basis into common stock upon the death of the
owner. However, in connection with an order imposed by the Commissioner
of Corporations of the State of California, all shares held by this
individual will not participate in dividends, other than for stock in
distribution of assets in the event of liquidation and may not be
transferred without prior consent of the Commissioner or pursuant to
court order.
20. REDEEMABLE CONVERTIBLE PREFERRED STOCK
The redeemable convertible preferred stock was issued in 1987 to the
then holders of the common and Class B common stock.
In 1991, the shares must be redeemable by the Company for $0.01 per
share at any time the Company has the funds legally available for the
redemption and also became nonconvertible.
34
<PAGE> 75
ELECTROPURE, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
For the Years Ended October 31, 1998 and 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
20. REDEEMABLE CONVERTIBLE PREFERRED STOCK, CONTINUED
The redeemable convertible preferred stock is not assignable or
transferable, except upon death or upon approval of a majority of the
members of the Board of Directors not holding such shares and are not
entitled to receive any dividends. In the event of liquidation,
dissolution, or winding up of the Company, each share is entitled to
share ratably in all assets available for distribution equal to that of
a share of common stock up to a maximum of $.01 per share.
21. ACQUISITIONS OF INTELLECTUAL PROPERTIES
On October 25, 1997, the Company completed the acquisition of certain
intellectual property described in seven patents from Wyatt Technology
Corporation ("Wyatt"). The intellectual property acquired relates to
potable water monitoring through the utilization of multi-angle laser
light scattering instrumentation. The patents are valid until October
2002. The cost of the intellectual property acquired was 2,100,000
shares of the Company's common stock valued at $447,146. The acquisition
value was based upon an appraisal of the block of the Company's common
shares issued for this transaction. As part of the agreement, Wyatt is
to manufacture and sell at prices including a reasonable profit all
components involving the intellectual property that the Company requires
for a period of three years from October 25, 1997. Wyatt Technology
Corporation owns 16.8% of the common stock of the Company, with 10.3% of
the voting control as of March 15, 1999.
On February 15, 1999, a dispute arose between the Company and Wyatt
(Note 25).
During the period from February though April 1998 the Company acquired
the Hydro Components, Inc. ("HCI") ion exchange membrane technology for
$200,000. In addition, the Company acquired related inventory ($67,429)
and equipment ($4,900).
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Equipment $ 4,900
Inventory 67,429
Unpatentable process technology 200,000
--------
TOTAL $272,329
</TABLE>
The unpatentable process technology is comprised of certain production
processes, intellectual properties, and know-how described as ion
exchange membrane technology. None of the production processes or
intellectual properties are protected by patent, copyright or trademark.
35
<PAGE> 76
ELECTROPURE, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
For the Years Ended October 31, 1998 and 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
22. BUSINESS SEGMENTS
In June 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued SFAS No.
131, "Disclosures about Segments of an Enterprise and Related
Information". The pronouncement requires implementation for fiscal years
beginning after December 15, 1997. While not required to, the Company
has elected early implementation.
The Company has three reportable segments: water purification ("EDI"),
sludge filtration ("SF"), and clean water monitoring (Laserpure ["LP"] a
start up operation). The water purification segment produces water
purification modules for sale to manufacturers. The sludge filtration
segment sells water and wastewater treatment products to the light
commercial/industrial markets. The clean water monitoring segment is
developing certain laser technology enabling real time identification of
contamination in water.
The Company's reportable segments are strategic business units that
offer different products; are managed separately; and each business
requires different technology and marketing strategies. The accounting
policies of the segments are those described in the summary of
significant accounting policies. The Company evaluates performance based
on results from operations before income taxes not including
nonrecurring gains and losses.
Business Segment Information:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1998 1997
----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C>
Revenue
EDI $ 372,742 $ 25,989
SF 432,771 --
LP -- --
----------- -----------
Total revenue $ 805,513 $ 25,989
=========== ===========
Operating Income (Loss)
EDI $ 7,883 $ (33,145)
SF 93,265 --
LP (445,110) (338,825)
Other operating income (loss) (792,362) (237,225)
----------- -----------
Total operating income (loss) $(1,136,324) $ (609,195)
=========== ===========
</TABLE>
36
<PAGE> 77
ELECTROPURE, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
For the Years Ended October 31, 1998 and 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
22. BUSINESS SEGMENTS, CONTINUED
Business Segment Information, Continued:
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
Depreciation and Amortization
EDI $ 8,952 $ 123
SF 31,040 --
LP 89,429 1,470
---------- ----------
Total depreciation and amortization $ 129,421 $ 1,593
========== ==========
Identifiable Assets
EDI $ 292,806 $ 175,157
SF 522,734 --
LP 356,247 445,676
Other assets 214,779 266,708
---------- ----------
Total identifiable assets $1,386,566 $ 887,541
========== ==========
Expenditures for Long Lived Assets
EDI $ 86,227 $ 3,045
SF 200,000 --
LP -- 447,174
---------- ----------
Total expenditures for long lived assets $ 286,227 $ 450,219
========== ==========
Geographic Information:
Revenues
United States $ 506,996 $ 5,260
Japan 183,117 15,729
Ireland 83,600 --
Other foreign countries 31,800 5,000
---------- ----------
Total revenues $ 805,513 $ 25,989
========== ==========
</TABLE>
37
<PAGE> 78
ELECTROPURE, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
For the Years Ended October 31, 1998 and 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
23. PRIOR PERIOD ADJUSTMENTS
The Company's financial statements as of October 31, 1997 have been
restated for the following matters, the effects of which are summarized
below:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Increase (Decrease) Increase (Decrease)
Increase as of October 31, 1997 as of November 1, 1996
(Decrease) to ------------------------------------- --------------------------------------
Net Loss
for the Notes
Year Ended Additional Receivable Additional Notes
October 31, Accumulated Paid-in On Accumulated Paid-in Receivable On
1997 Deficit Capital Common Stock Deficit Capital Common Stock
----------- ----------- ---------- ------------ ----------- ---------- -------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
In connection with the
development agreement with EDI
Components described in Note 4,
costs of marketing and
development were not recorded in
the proper periods. Accordingly,
the financial statements have
been retroactively adjusted to
record these expenses in the
proper periods. $(480,807) $(299,112) $ 299,112 -- $ 779,919 $ 779,919 --
Notes receivable arising from
the issuance of 34,108 shares of
common stock during the period
from 1989 through 1993, that
would not be realized, were
reflected as a reduction of
equity. These amounts have been
retroactively adjusted as of
November 1, 1996 to more
appropriately reflect the
permanent nature of these
reductions of additional paid-in
capital. -- -- (152,766) $(152,766) -- (152,766) $(152,766)
In fiscal 1996 a judgment was
rendered against the Company
resulting from legal action
taken by the Economic
Development Bank of Puerto Rico.
However, the Company did not
appropriately recognize the
unfavorable result of this
litigation in its fiscal 1996
financial statements.
Accordingly, the financial
statements have been
retroactively adjusted to
properly reflect these costs in
fiscal 1996. (58,875) (76,625) 76,625 -- 135,500 -- --
</TABLE>
38
<PAGE> 79
ELECTROPURE, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
For the Years Ended October 31, 1998 and 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
23. PRIOR PERIOD ADJUSTMENTS, CONTINUED
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Increase Increase (Decrease) Increase (Decrease)
(Decrease) to as of October 31, 1997 as of November 1, 1996
Net Loss ----------------------------------- -----------------------------------
for the Notes Notes
Year Ended Additional Receivable Additional Receivable
October 31, Accumulated Paid-in On Common Accumulated Paid-in On Common
1997 Deficit Capital Stock Deficit Capital Stock
------------- ----------- ---------- --------- ----------- ---------- ----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
The Company in fiscal 1997
incorrectly recorded the value
of warrants issued for
consulting services received and
charged costs incurred in the
private placement of equity
securities to expense.
Accordingly, the financial
statements have been
retroactively adjusted to
properly reflect these
transactions. $ 21,156 $ (21,156) $ 21,156 -- -- -- --
Due to cut off errors, the
Company incorrectly recorded
certain sales and expenses.
Accordingly, the financial
statements have been
retroactively adjusted to
reflect these transactions in
the proper period. 34,489 (34,489) -- -- -- -- --
$(484,037) $(431,382) $ 244,127 $(152,766) $ 915,419 $ 627,153 $(152,766)
</TABLE>
The effect of these retroactive adjustments on fiscal year 1997 was to
decrease net loss by $484,037 or $0.15 per share.
39
<PAGE> 80
ELECTROPURE, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
For the Years Ended October 31, 1998 and 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
24. YEAR 2000 DISCLOSURE
The Company has conducted a comprehensive review of its computer
operations to identify the systems that could have been adversely
affected by the Year 2000 Issue and has developed and implemented a plan
that it believes has resolved the issue. The Year 2000 Issue is the
result of computer programs being written using two digits rather than
four to define the applicable year. Any of the Company's programs that
have time-sensitive software might have recognized a date using "00" as
the year 1900 rather than the year 2000. This could have resulted in a
major system failure or miscalculations. The Company presently believes
that, with modifications already made to existing software and
conversions to new software, the Year 2000 problem will not pose
significant operational problems for the Company's computer systems as
so modified and converted.
25. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
Series B Convertible Preferred Stock
On January 15, 1999, the Company sold one million shares of its Series B
Convertible Preferred Stock ("Series B Preferred Stock") to a single
individual who is a major shareholder of the Company in a private
transaction for $1,000,000. The Series B Preferred Stock is convertible
into one million shares of the Company's common stock in whole or in
part at any time by its holder. The Series B Preferred Stock is
automatically convertible on the same basis if either of two events
occur: a) the company makes a public offering of any of its securities,
or b) the Company's securities are admitted for listing on a national
securities exchange market system or the NASDAQ system. In the event the
number of shares of the Company's common stock is increased or decreased
as a result of a stock split, stock dividend, reverse stock split, or
otherwise, the number of shares of common stock into which each share of
Series B Preferred Stock may be converted shall concurrently be
proportionately issued or decreased. The Series B Preferred Stock has no
rights for participation in any new or additional issuances of any
Company equity instruments.
Each share of Series B Preferred Stock is entitled to four votes on all
matters, including the election of directors and shall vote as a single
class along with the Common Stock, Class B Common Stock and Convertible
Preferred Stock.
In any liquidation or dissolution of the Company, the holders of the
Series B Preferred Stock will be entitled to a liquidation preference of
$1 per share.
40
<PAGE> 81
ELECTROPURE, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
For the Years Ended October 31, 1998 and 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
25. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS, CONTINUED
Warrants Granted
In February 1999, 125,000 warrants were granted to two employees
exercisable at $.90 per share. The options vest over five years
commencing one year after the date of grant.
In March 1999, 175,000 warrants were granted at $1.00 per share for
future consulting services, which vest over five years.
Litigation and Claims
On or about February 15, 1999, the Company filed a complaint against
Wyatt Technology Corporation ("Wyatt") in the Orange County Superior
Court of California, Case No. 805529. The Complaint alleges a cause of
action for breach of contract, specific performance, and reformation, as
well as a temporary restraining order and further injunctive and
declaratory relief. The lawsuit alleges that Wyatt breached the October
1997, Technology Transfer Agreement (the "Agreement") (Note 21) by which
the Company obtained a license to use and develop certain laser-based
technology and patents held by Wyatt.
On February 23, 1999, Orange County Superior Court granted the Company's
application for ex parte relief and issued a temporary order restraining
Wyatt, and its officers, agents, and representatives, from breaching the
Technology Transfer Agreement; from taking any action to rescind the
Agreement, or any of the Company's rights thereunder; and from
negotiating with any of the Company's competitors, or any third party,
regarding the licensing, use, dissemination, sale or transfer of any of
the technology which is the subject of the Agreement.
On or about March 9, 1999, the Court vacated the temporary restraining
order and confirmed a stipulation entered into between the parties that,
among other things, pending the final resolution of the Company's
lawsuit against Wyatt, neither Wyatt, nor any of its agents, servants,
employees, representatives or other persons acting in concert or
participating with them, will engage in negotiations with any third
party regarding the licensing, use, dissemination, sale or transfer of
any of the technology which is the subject of the Technology Transfer
Agreement; nor provide the use of or disseminate in any way, any of that
technology to any third party.
41
<PAGE> 82
ELECTROPURE, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
For the Years Ended October 31, 1998 and 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
25. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS, CONTINUED
On or about February 23, 1999, Wyatt filed a cross-complaint against the
Company, Mr. Anthony E. Frank, individually; and 25 unnamed "Doe"
defendants for relief based on alleged (1) breach of contract; (2)
rescission of contract; (3) fraud; (4) declaratory relief; and (5)
intentional interference with economic relationship. The Company was
unaware of the filing of this cross-complaint until it was served on the
Company on or about March 11, 1999.
The Company and its counsel believe that it will prevail if this matter
should go to trial and the Company intends to vigorously prosecute its
lawsuit and defend this cross-complaint.
42
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 5
<CURRENCY> U.S. DOLLARS
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> 12-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> OCT-31-1998
<PERIOD-START> NOV-01-1997
<PERIOD-END> OCT-31-1998
<EXCHANGE-RATE> 1
<CASH> 57,440
<SECURITIES> 0
<RECEIVABLES> 231,852
<ALLOWANCES> 0
<INVENTORY> 320,532
<CURRENT-ASSETS> 634,329
<PP&E> 146,154
<DEPRECIATION> 12,109
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 1,386,566
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES> 349,372
<BONDS> 0
0
26,000
<COMMON> 86,189
<OTHER-SE> 0
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY> 1,386,566
<SALES> 805,513
<TOTAL-REVENUES> 805,513
<CGS> 704,365
<TOTAL-COSTS> 1,237,472
<OTHER-EXPENSES> 0
<LOSS-PROVISION> 0
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 395,870
<INCOME-PRETAX> (1,531,394)
<INCOME-TAX> (800)
<INCOME-CONTINUING> (1,532,194)
<DISCONTINUED> 0
<EXTRAORDINARY> 26,051
<CHANGES> 0
<NET-INCOME> (1,506,943)
<EPS-PRIMARY> (0.19)
<EPS-DILUTED> (0.19)
</TABLE>
