Apparatus For Electrical (including Simultaneous Electrical And Magnetic) Separation Or Purification Of Liquid Or Magnetic Treatment Of Liquid (other Than Separation) Patents (Class 204/660)
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Patent number: 11820680Abstract: The present disclosure provides an energy-saving technology using switching of current of an electrode terminal, which is applied to a capacitive deionization (CDI) water purification apparatus, and control of switching of the current. The water purification apparatus includes a case 110 having an inlet 113 formed in one side thereof and an outlet 115 formed in the opposite side thereof, a plurality of electrode plates 120 accommodated in the case and stacked on one another, and an electrode terminal 130 selectively and electrically connected to the plurality of electrode plates and configured to allow direct current to flow therethrough.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2021Date of Patent: November 21, 2023Assignee: SIONTECH CO., LTD.Inventors: Kyung Seok Kang, Kyu Hong Lee, Ho Il Lee, Bo Hyung Ryoo, Nam Soo Park, Kyung Han Lee
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Patent number: 11795078Abstract: A water treatment system includes an ozone generator combined with an electrolytic chlorine generator in a compact, efficient and serviceable assembly. The system may include a modular and replaceable ozone generator, which allows a damaged or non-functional ozone generator to be quickly and efficiently replaced. In order to protect the ozone generator from damage, a fail-safe drain valve assembly may also be provided which will expel backflowing pool water before it is allowed to backflow into the ozone generator. The water treatment system may further include an insulated electrolytic chlorine generator that mitigates or eliminates current leakage for efficient operation.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2021Date of Patent: October 24, 2023Assignee: Intex Marketing Ltd.Inventors: Zhi Xiong Huang, Yonggui Chen, Yaw Yuan Hsu, Peilin Chen
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Patent number: 11454345Abstract: The proposed technology relates to a system (8) for preventing microbiological growth in a conduit conveying a liquid. The system (8) comprises a multi-layered pipe (10) constituting said conduit and having an inner layer (12) that covers the complete inside (16) of the pipe (10) and is formed of an electrically conductive polymer material. A liquid in the pipe (10) is in direct contact with the inner layer (12). The system further has a first electrical connector (18) and a second electrical connector (19) connecting to the inner layer (12) from outside the pipe (10), wherein the first electric connector (18) and the second electric connector (19) are spaced apart along the pipe (10). The system further has an electric power source (20) operationally connected to the first electrical connector (18) and the second electrical connector (19) and configured for supplying an electric current to the inner layer (12).Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2017Date of Patent: September 27, 2022Assignee: EPFF ELECTRICAL PIPE FOR FLUID TRANSPORT ABInventor: Thomas Andersson
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Patent number: 11427490Abstract: A water replicating system comprises a water analyzer for analyzing a target water to determine relative content of selected components. The system further comprises a water treatment apparatus for receiving source water, the water treatment apparatus having a first treatment portion for removing or reducing the relative content of selected components and a second treatment portion for adding components so that the source water will substantially replicate the target water.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2017Date of Patent: August 30, 2022Assignee: GREEN CROWN WATER SYSTEMS, LLCInventor: Emmanuel Moya
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Patent number: 11185862Abstract: The present disclosure relates to digital microfluidic systems having an electrode bus controlled by a single actuation input, and methods for droplet manipulation using the electrode bus. Particularly, aspects are directed to a digital microfluidic system including a first group of droplet actuation electrodes formed in a substrate, a first wiring bus formed in the substrate and connected to each electrode in the first group of droplet actuation electrodes, and a first single point of actuation connected to the first wiring bus; and a second group of droplet actuation electrodes formed in the substrate, a second wiring bus formed in the substrate and connected to each electrode in the second group of droplet actuation electrodes, and a second single point of actuation connected to the second wiring bus.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2018Date of Patent: November 30, 2021Assignee: National Technology & Engineering Solutions of Sandia, LLCInventors: Philip Gach, Anup Singh
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Patent number: 11078091Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for automatically operating a high voltage resonance circuit. An embodiment of the system includes one or more coils each coil can be an alternating current (AC) coil or a direct current (DC) coil. An embodiment of the system further includes a microprocessor that issues commands to control amplitude and frequency of pulses of the one or more coils to reach and maintain a resonant condition for water treatment. The microprocessor determines whether a coil is an AC coil or a DC coil by detecting whether a capacitor is connected in series with the coil. An embodiment of the system further includes one or more sensors that measure the quality of water and provide feedback to the microprocessor.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2019Date of Patent: August 3, 2021Assignee: General Water Systems LLCInventor: Andrew L. Smith
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Patent number: 10987640Abstract: Embodiments of the subject invention are directed to methods and apparatus for inducing mixing in a fluid using one or more plasma actuators. In an embodiment, a pair of electrodes is positioned near a fluid and a voltage potential is applied across the pair of electrodes such that a plasma discharge is produced in the fluid. In an embodiment, the plasma discharge creates turbulence in the fluid thereby mixing the fluid. In an embodiment, flow structures, such as vortices are generated in the fluid. In an embodiment, the fluid is mixed in three dimensions. In an embodiment, a plurality of fluids are mixed. In an embodiment, solids are dispersed in at least one fluid. In an embodiment, heat or other properties are dispersed within at least one fluid. In an embodiment, at least one of the pair of electrodes has a serpentine shape.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2019Date of Patent: April 27, 2021Assignee: University of Florida Research Foundation, Inc.Inventor: Subrata Roy
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Patent number: 10759682Abstract: A method to prepare a coated current collector electrode of a flow through capacitor. The method includes preparing a coating paste includes: 10-50 weight % of carbon having a specific surface area of at least 500 m2/g; 0.3-5 weight % of a binder; 10-50 weight % based on the total paste of a first solvent having a first boiling point; and 10-50 weight % based on the total paste of a second solvent having a second boiling point. The method further includes applying the coating paste on a current collector; and allowing the second solvent in the coating paste applied on the current collector to evaporate at a temperature lower than the first boiling point.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2015Date of Patent: September 1, 2020Assignee: Voltea LimitedInventors: Albert Van Der Wal, Raúl Cubedo Castelló, Freddie Kerpels, Hank Robert Reinhoudt
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Patent number: 10280926Abstract: Systems and methods for conditioning sewage having entrained solids which clog sewage pumps, are disclosed. Systems include a sewage pump, a chopper pump, and a mixing nozzle connected to the chopper pump. Specifically, the sewage pump is a non-clog centrifugal pump having an inlet for drawing fluid into the pump and an outlet for discharging the fluid into a pipe, while the chopper pump has an inlet for drawing fluid into the pump and an outlet for discharging the fluid into the wet-well. The chopper pump may be positioned either in or adjacent to the wet-well. The mixing nozzle fluidly coupled to the chopper pump discharge, is positioned in the wet-well. Methods include the steps of positioning a chopper pump within the wet-well, drawing in liquid sewage, including the entrained solids, reducing the size of entrained solids, and discharging the sewage and reduced size solids into the wet-well.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2016Date of Patent: May 7, 2019Assignee: VAUGHAN COMPANY, INC.Inventor: Glenn R. Dorsch
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Patent number: 10266431Abstract: Disclosed is a water treatment apparatus including a pipe. Elements disposed in the pipe are respectively made of lead-free brass and nontoxic ultra high molecular weight polyethylene instead of brass and plastic polyethylene that are conventionally used materials. Therefore, when the elements come into contact with water, neither heavy metals, such as lead (Pb), nor organic and inorganic substances harmful to the human body are produced.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2016Date of Patent: April 23, 2019Assignee: IOREX Co., Ltd.Inventors: Tai-hyun Jo, Hong-seok Kim, Jee-woon Kim
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Patent number: 9868654Abstract: A method and apparatus for the shearing and dispersion of an active flocculent that is discharged from an electrolytic reactor into a larger volume or flow of water are disclosed. The device is submerged in a natural body of water, tank, etc. and is connected to the reactor via a fluid conduit such that the effluent is discharged under pressure through the device into the body of water. The accelerator device uses available pressure to shear the active flocculent into smaller size particles by impingement and to mix the reactor discharge into a larger volume or flow of water by entrainment. The apparatus uses the available pressure present in the reactor discharge and therefore is recovering waste energy from the available hydraulic power for operation.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2015Date of Patent: January 16, 2018Assignee: The Vinson/Gavrel GroupInventors: Ira Vinson, Gus Gavrel
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Patent number: 9758389Abstract: A system for separating contaminants from fluids provides a modular mobile continuously operable site configurable multi-phase filtering system having an oil water separator 100, a dwell tank 220, a waste tank 250, an electrocoagulator 120 having plural concentrically aligned perforated tubular sacrificial electrodes, a first and a parallel second particulate filter 300A, 300B, a first and parallel second step-down membrane filter 400A, 400B, an optional ultra filtration filter 500, an optional reverse osmosis filter 600, a mixing station 700 and a totalizer and sensor array 900 to analyze, filter and treat fluids by separating contaminants and particulates and adjusting chemical content to meet specifications desired which will allow the use and re-use of the filtered fluid and the separated contaminants.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2015Date of Patent: September 12, 2017Assignee: Eco Squared Solutions, IncInventor: Charles B. Rau, III
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Patent number: 9724659Abstract: A stirring device and method for stirring a material using an applicator with an electrically controllable element placed on an outside surface of the applicator so that a controllable power source coupled to the electrically controllable element provides a controlled electrostatic charge to the element. The controlled electrostatic charge provided by the power source creates a variable electric field exterior to the outside surface of the applicator. The variable electric field induces a stirring movement to the material.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2014Date of Patent: August 8, 2017Assignee: Flextronics AP, LLCInventors: Susan Abraham, Dennis Willie
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Patent number: 9637399Abstract: A method of producing an apparatus to remove ions from water is disclosed, wherein the apparatus includes a first electrode having a first current collector, a second electrode having a second current collector, and a spacer between the first and second electrodes to allow water to flow in between the electrodes. The method includes flushing water through the spacer and subsequently exerting a force on the stack so as to compress the first and second electrodes and the spacer. Exerting a force on the stack may result in a pressure of less than 5 bar, less than 2 bar, or between 1 bar and 0.5 bar, between the electrodes and the spacer.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2012Date of Patent: May 2, 2017Assignee: VOLTEA B.V.Inventors: Albert Van Der Wal, Hank Robert Reinhoudt, Piotr Edward Dlugolecki, Thomas Richard Bednar, George Shoemaker Ellis, David Jeffrey Averbeck
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Patent number: 9360014Abstract: Systems and methods for conditioning sewage having entrained solids which clog sewage pumps, are disclosed. Systems include a sewage pump, a chopper pump, and a mixing nozzle connected to the chopper pump. Specifically, the sewage pump is a non-clog centrifugal pump having an inlet for drawing fluid into the pump and an outlet for discharging the fluid into a pipe, while the chopper pump has an inlet for drawing fluid into the pump and an outlet for discharging the fluid into the wet-well. The chopper pump may be positioned either in or adjacent to the wet-well. The mixing nozzle fluidly coupled to the chopper pump discharge, is positioned in the wet-well. Methods include the steps of positioning a chopper pump within the wet-well, drawing in liquid sewage, including the entrained solids, reducing the size of entrained solids, and discharging the sewage and reduced size solids into the wet-well.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2013Date of Patent: June 7, 2016Assignee: Vaughan Company, Inc.Inventor: Glenn R. Dorsch
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Patent number: 9040108Abstract: The invention proposes a device for decaffeinating a liquid. The device includes at least one cathode electrode and at least one anode electrode which are spaced apart and which are immersed in the liquid; a power supply coupled to the at least one cathode electrode and the at least one anode electrode and configured to apply power thereto, wherein the at least one cathode electrode and the at least one anode electrode are configured to generate an electric field in the liquid upon application of the power to attract caffeine molecules in the liquid to the at least one cathode electrode; wherein the at least one cathode electrode is made of or coated with an absorbing material configured to absorb at least part of the caffeine molecules that are attracted to the at least one cathode electrode.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2012Date of Patent: May 26, 2015Assignee: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.Inventors: Guangwei Wang, Declan Patrick Kelly
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Publication number: 20150114838Abstract: An electrostatic coalescer for coalescing of a dispersed phase from a continuous phase in an emulsion is presented. The electrostatic coalescer includes at least one inlet for receiving the emulsion; at least one outlet for discharging the emulsion after coalescing the dispersed phase; and at least one electrode disposed between the inlet and the outlet, wherein the electrode is configured to receive an AC voltage/current from a power source. The electrostatic coalescer further includes at least one article disposed between the inlet and the outlet, the article includes a plurality of regions disposed on a surface in a predefined pattern, wherein a portion of the plurality of regions is substantially wetting with respect to the dispersed phase, and a portion of the plurality of regions is substantially non-wetting with respect to the dispersed phase.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 31, 2013Publication date: April 30, 2015Applicant: General Electric CompanyInventors: Shyam Sivaramakrishnan, Roderick Mark Lusted
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Patent number: 9016198Abstract: Printers, methods, and apparatus to filter imaging oil are disclosed. An example apparatus to filter imaging oil, includes adjacent electrodes and a switching circuit. The example switching circuit selectively generates an electrostatic field between the adjacent electrodes to cause particles suspended in the imaging oil between the adjacent electrodes to adhere to at least one of the adjacent electrodes, and generates an alternating electric field between the adjacent electrodes to cause the particles to be detached from the adjacent electrodes.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 2010Date of Patent: April 28, 2015Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.Inventors: Quang P Lam, Michael H Lee, Omer Gila
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Publication number: 20150096901Abstract: There is a method of facilitating the consolidation of fine tailings through the application of an electrical current. The fine tailings include a combination of at least some water and some clay particles. Electrodes are placed into contact with the fine tailings. An AC voltage with a DC offset is applied to the electrodes to separate water from the clay particles and to induce movement of the separated water to a collection area. The separated clay particles can consolidate more readily than unseparated clay particles. In an embodiment, the fine tailings are mixed fine oil sands extraction tailings which include residual hydrocarbons. In an embodiment, the application of an AC voltage with a DC offset across the electrodes includes applying an AC voltage of about 1 V/cm and a DC offset of about ½ V/cm.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 7, 2013Publication date: April 9, 2015Applicant: DPRA CANADA INCORPORATEDInventors: Bruce S. Beattie, Paul Garcia, Doug Kimzey, Ben Harris, Robert C. Parrott, James Micak
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Patent number: 8999154Abstract: Disclosed is a water treatment apparatus for treating Lake Okeechobee water. The treatment apparatus operates on a continuous flow of water which is subjected to hydrodynamic waves, acoustic ultrasonic waves in combination with injected ozone and electrolysis. The treatment system provides a cost efficient and environmentally friendly process for cleaning contaminated water that is directed into estuaries, lagoons, intracoastal waterway, everglades, and the ocean. Treatment includes addressing various levels of contaminants such as aerobic bacteria, often called a green slime that produces a bio-film. The apparatus can be mounted on a vessel to permit targeting of algae blooms.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2013Date of Patent: April 7, 2015Assignee: Ecosphere Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Dennis McGuire
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Publication number: 20150090596Abstract: The present invention provides a system for solvent extraction utilizing a first electrode with a raised area formed on its surface, which defines a portion of a microfluidic channel; a second electrode with a flat surface, defining another portion of the microfluidic channel that opposes the raised area of the first electrode; a reversibly deformable substrate disposed between the first electrode and second electrode, adapted to accommodate the raised area of the first electrode and having a portion that extends beyond the raised area of the first electrode, that portion defining the remaining portions of the microfluidic channel; and an electrolyte of at least two immiscible liquids that flows through the microfluidic channel. Also provided is a system for performing multiple solvent extractions utilizing several microfluidic chips or unit operations connected in series.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 30, 2013Publication date: April 2, 2015Applicant: UCHICAGO ARGONNE, LLCInventors: Artem Gelis, Candido Pereira, Kevin Paul Flood Nichols
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Publication number: 20150090668Abstract: A mobile water treatment facility may include, in one example operation, receiving used, dirty and/or waste water from a well or other source. The water may then be prepared for a treatment cycle by modifying the water and applying a voltage to the water inside an electrode array in order to remove the sediment from the water to provide recycled water for continued use. The process may be performed by a full capacity device or via a mobile treatment and testing unit that operates by cycling the water at a smaller volume and rate for analysis and testing purposes prior to engaging a full flow-rate treatment device.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 26, 2014Publication date: April 2, 2015Inventor: HOWARD SCHACHTER
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Publication number: 20150060287Abstract: An apparatus includes an electrode body, and an electrically conductive fastener which includes titanium, wherein the electrically conductive fastener is threadingly engaged with the electrode body to form a titanium-metal interlace to conduct current. The apparatus includes an electrically conductive coil through which the electrode body and electrically conductive fastener extend, and a strainer basket fastened to the electrode body with an electrically insulative fastener.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 4, 2013Publication date: March 5, 2015Inventor: Mark Sherman
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Patent number: 8961770Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a method of operating a flow-through capacitor and a related controller for performing the method. The method includes establishing a summed-current capacity of the flow-through capacitor. In an operational cycle, the flow-through capacitor is operated to transfer ions between the pair of electrodes and water. A current is monitored during operation of the flow-through capacitor. This current is integrated over time to calculate a monitored-current value. To determine an end of the operational cycle, the monitored-current value is compared to the summed-current capacity.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2011Date of Patent: February 24, 2015Assignee: Pentair Residential Filtration, LLCInventors: David J. Averbeck, Rebecca M. Tallon, Brett A. Boedeker
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Publication number: 20150005479Abstract: Provided is a bioprocessing device including a hybrid of (1) a protein having a redox potential; and (b) a single strand DNA (ssDNA) conjugated to the protein. The bioprocessing device of the present invention has a function of information reinforcement, information regulation, or information amplification. This bioprocessing device of the present invention presents a new concept of biocomputing system enabling various functions.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 4, 2013Publication date: January 1, 2015Applicant: Industry-University Cooperation Foundation Sogang UniversityInventors: Jeong-Woo CHOI, Taek LEE, Jun Hong MIN
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Publication number: 20150001164Abstract: To remove a contaminant from a liquid, a pulsed electrical arc discharge is effected between two electrodes immersed in the liquid, thereby creating a plurality of particles within the liquid. One or both of the electrodes is metallic, for example iron or titanium. Before the pulsed electrical arc discharge is terminated, another step that promotes destruction of the contaminant by particles, such as removing the particles from the liquid or adding an oxidizer to the liquid, is performed. In the case of the extra step being adding an oxidizer to the liquid, preferably the termination of the pulsed electrical arc discharge is followed by allowing the liquid and the particles therein to age.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 3, 2012Publication date: January 1, 2015Applicant: Ramot at Tel-Aviv University Ltd.Inventors: Nahum Parkansky, Reuven Lev Boxman, Simon Evelina Faktorovich, Boris A. Alterkop, Olga Berkh, Adi Vegerhof
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Patent number: 8920647Abstract: A method and apparatus provide pulsed fluid treatment at a plurality of distinct points utilizing pulsed magnetic energy concentrated in a plurality of distinct areas along a fluid flow path. The instant invention prevents the formation and accumulation of contaminants within conduits and on equipment utilized in the transportation, delivery and processing of fluid columns. It may also be utilized to accelerate the separation of oil and water and increase the efficiency of oil/water separation equipment.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2011Date of Patent: December 30, 2014Assignee: Wilsa, Inc.Inventor: Herbert William Holland
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Publication number: 20140374258Abstract: A system and method of using a traveling electric wave generated by means of intertwined helically wound electrodes powered by a polyphase alternating current, such that the traveling electric wave attracts both anions and cations in alternating bands of anions and cations, providing an electromotive force for these ions along the direction of travel of the electric wave, thus moving a concentrated ionic flow for the purpose of propulsion or removal of ions from a fluid.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 19, 2014Publication date: December 25, 2014Inventor: Joseph Y. Hui
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Publication number: 20140367262Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a spacer structure that is configured to be disposed between a pair of electrodes in a capacitive deionization apparatus so as to provide a space for flowing a fluid therethrough. The spacer structure includes a copolymer prepared by copolymerizing a mixture of a polyurethane backbone including a carboxyl group or a sulfonic acid group, an ion conductive monomer including a carboxyl group and a cation exchange group, and a second polymer including a functional group that reacts with the carboxyl group or sulfonic acid group and forms a cross-linking bond with the polyurethane backbone.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 9, 2014Publication date: December 18, 2014Inventors: Myung Dong CHO, Joon Seon JEONG, Hyun Seok KIM, Hyo Rang KANG, Da Hye PARK
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Publication number: 20140360880Abstract: Embodiments discussed herein relate to systems and methods for separating two or more phases of an emulsion or other mixture. The methods include providing the mixture with a net and unipolar charge (e.g., such that adjacent droplets therein acquire net and unipolar charges), thereby enhancing coalescence of like-phase droplets therein and producing, or enhancing the production of, two or more consolidated phases; and collecting the two or more consolidated phases.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 16, 2014Publication date: December 11, 2014Applicant: Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyInventors: Seyed Reza Mahmoudi, Kripa K. Varanasi
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Patent number: 8906242Abstract: Disclosed is an improved water treatment apparatus. The treatment apparatus is pressurized and operates on a continuous flow of fluids which are subjected to hydrodynamic waves, acoustic ultrasonic waves in combination with injected ozone. The treatment tank includes a tangential inlet that induces a rotating flow into the tank thereby increasing the mixing of the ozone within the effluent. The ozonated fluid is further electro chemically treated with DC current. The treatment tank provides a cost efficient and environmentally friendly process and apparatus for cleaning and recycling fluids as contaminated as frac water, used to stimulate gas production from shale formations, as well as other types of fluids having various levels of contaminants such as aerobic and anaerobic bacteria and suspended solids.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2011Date of Patent: December 9, 2014Assignee: Ecosphere Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Dennis McGuire, Sanjeev Jakhete
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Publication number: 20140346046Abstract: The polarized electrode flow through capacitor comprises at least one each electrode material, with a pore volume that includes meso and micropores, with contained anionic or cationic groups. The polarized electrodes are in opposite polarity facing pairs, separated by a flow path or flow spacer. Both polarities of the particular attached ionic groups used are ionized at the working pH or composition of the particular feed solution supplied to inlet of the flow through capacitor. The contained groups cause the electrodes to be polarized so that they are selective to anions or cations. The polarized electrode flow through capacitor has better performance compared to identical flow through capacitors made from non-derivitized carbon. The capacitor electrode materials so derivitized provide this polarization function directly without need for a separate charge barrier material.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 23, 2012Publication date: November 27, 2014Applicant: Mespilus Inc.Inventor: Marc D. Andelman
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Publication number: 20140339089Abstract: The invention relates to a device for electrostatic coalescence of liquid particles in a flowing fluid mixture, comprising: a tube having an feed opening located at the front side of the tube and a discharge opening located on the opposite side of the tube and a least one arrangement with flow guide vanes arranged in the tube, positioned in between the opened infeed side and an opposite opened outfeed side, for reducing the turbulence or for imparting a rotating movement to the fluid mixture flowing through the tube. The invention also relates to a method for electrostatic coalescence of liquid particles in a flowing fluid mixture.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 2, 2013Publication date: November 20, 2014Inventors: Mika Kristian Sulevi Tienhaaraa, Frederik Albert Lammers
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Publication number: 20140326681Abstract: A system and method for treating flowing water systems with a plasma discharge to remove or control growth of microbiological species. The system and method protect other components of the water system from being damaged by excess energy from the electrohydraulic treatment. The system and method also recycle ozone gas generated by a high voltage generator that powers the plasma discharge to further treat the water. A gas infusion system upstream of or inside a plasma reaction chamber may be used to create fine bubbles of ozone, air, or other gases in the water being treated to aid in plasma generation.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 24, 2014Publication date: November 6, 2014Applicant: NCH CORPORATIONInventors: Adrian J. Denvir, David F. Vela, Matt M. Holloway
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Patent number: 8871074Abstract: A water desalination system and method in accordance with the principles of the present invention employs capacitive deionization to remove ions from source water to produce deionzed and waste water. The process employs charged electrodes to attract ions of opposite polarity from the source water. The process of discharging the electrodes employs solvent drag.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2007Date of Patent: October 28, 2014Assignee: Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyInventors: Nam P. Suh, Sang-Gook Kim, Taesik Lee, Ishan Barman, Gyunyoung Heo
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Patent number: 8858791Abstract: Electrocoagulation and sludge control apparatus and feed controller assembly for effluent treatment are disclosed, the apparatus including a primary reaction chamber having electrodes mounted therein and a treated effluent output. A sludge chamber is defined below and integrated with the primary reaction chamber and has a selectively openable outlet. The feed controller assembly is intermediate the primary reaction chamber and the sludge chamber and has a length selected for distribution of all effluent feed water across substantially an entire length of the primary reaction chamber.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2008Date of Patent: October 14, 2014Assignee: Rockwater Resource, LLCInventor: Reginald A. Wiemers
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Patent number: 8858790Abstract: Electrocoagulation effluent treatment apparatus and methods are disclosed, the apparatus including a primary electrocoagulation reactor chamber having treatment electrodes maintained therein and an effluent inlet and treated effluent outlet. An integrated flotation chamber is located above the reaction chamber, a vacuum device connectable with a vacuum source being received in the flotation chamber and including a foam intake and an output. A sludge chamber is defined below and integrated with the primary reaction chamber and has a settled sludge output.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2008Date of Patent: October 14, 2014Assignee: Rockwater Resource, LLCInventors: Reginald A. Wiemers, Robert Kohlheb
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Patent number: 8847335Abstract: A micro-electrochemical sensor contains magnetic compounds inserted within a substrate that exert a magnetic force of attraction on paramagnetic beads held in contact with an electrode. The magnetic compounds can be contained within a fluid that is introduced into a void in the substrate. The electrode can be spaced apart from the magnetic compounds by a dielectric multi-layer membrane. During the fabrication process, different layers within the membrane-electrode structure can be tuned to have compressive or tensile stress so as to maintain structural integrity of the membrane, which is thin compared with the size of the void beneath it. During a process of forming the structure of the sensor, the tensile stress in a TiW adhesion layer can be adjusted to offset a composite net compressive stress associated with the dielectric layers of the membrane. The membrane can also be used in forming both the electrode and the void.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2012Date of Patent: September 30, 2014Assignee: STMicroelectronics Pte Ltd.Inventors: Shian-Yeu Kam, Tien-Choy Loh, Ying Yu, Fery Riswan, Frederic Sala
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Patent number: 8845906Abstract: The current invention provides a novel process for the treatment and reclamation of drilling frac flowback and produced wastewater from the drilling industry. The wastewater is delivered to the EMC/F System from a frac tank or other reservoir. The wastewater is pumped into the system and is treated sequentially by passing through a mechanical hydrocavitation unit, an electromagnetic unit, an electrocoagulation unit and/or a hydrocyclone and a flocculation-sedimentation tank. Polishing of the final effluent is accomplished by passing the water through a mixed media tank.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2012Date of Patent: September 30, 2014Assignee: Don E. Henley and Associates, LLCInventor: Donald E. Henley
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Publication number: 20140262788Abstract: A method and apparatus for conditioning water is disclosed. Water is flowed past a probe, wherein the water may include impurities. The probe is energized to excite the water and a presence of electrons in the excited water is reduced to produce positively charged water downstream of the probe that causes the impurities to dissociate from the water. The excited water may be deposited on a soil for crop production. The excited water may be further deposited on the soil to flush impurities in the soil to a depth away from a root of a crop planted in the soil to reclaim the soil for crop production. The excited water may further be used to descale pipes, such as used in irrigation, heat exchangers, cooling systems, etc. In yet another embodiment, the probe may be energized at a frequency selected to destroy organism, thereby protecting ecosystems.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 18, 2013Publication date: September 18, 2014Applicant: TRANSGLOBAL H2O, LLC.Inventors: Roger E. Fearon, Jeffrey M. Carlitz, Seenappa Poola, Michael A. Champ, James Smallwood, Jessica Bobenrieth
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Publication number: 20140246364Abstract: A system for performing ozone water treatment comprises a voltage supply circuit and a plasma eductor reactor. The voltage supply circuit includes an H-bridge controller and driver, a transformer, and an output port. The H-bridge controller and driver are configured to switch the electrical polarity of a pair of terminals. A primary of the transformer is connected to the H-bridge driver and controller. A secondary of the transformer connects in parallel with a first capacitor and in series with an inductor and a second capacitor. The output port connects in parallel with the second capacitor. The plasma eductor reactor includes an electric field generator, a flow spreader, and a diffuser. The electric field generator includes a pair of electrodes that generate an electric field. The flow spreader supplies a stream of oxygen. The diffuser supplies a stream of water. The streams of water and oxygen pass through the electric field.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 1, 2013Publication date: September 4, 2014Applicant: Eon Labs LLCInventors: Chris Hruska, Walter Buchanan, David Forsee
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Publication number: 20140238861Abstract: The present invention provides various systems, methods and apparatuses for recovering mining fluids, providing enhanced oil recovery and treating produced water. Plasma arc torches and electrolysis cells are used in various combinations. The plasma arc torch includes a cylindrical vessel, a first tangential inlet/outlet connected to or proximate to a first end, a second tangential inlet/outlet connected to or proximate to a second end, an electrode housing connected to the first end such that a first electrode is (a) aligned with a longitudinal axis of the cylindrical vessel, and (b) extends into the cylindrical vessel, and a hollow electrode nozzle is connected to the second end such that the hollow electrode nozzle is aligned with the longitudinal axis, the hollow electrode nozzle is partially disposed within the cylindrical vessel and outside the cylindrical vessel.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 17, 2014Publication date: August 28, 2014Applicant: Foret Plasma Labs, LLCInventor: Todd Foret
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Patent number: 8807349Abstract: The invention concerns a device for generation of ion network for water treatment in tanks, especially for reduction of cloud and for stabilization of water surfaces, where the device is arranged on a floating body equipped with a drive for initiation of mutual motion of the floating body and water, whereas the floating body is equipped with an ejector and at least one source of electrolytically and/or photocatalytically treated water connected with an outlet (9) that leads into ejection and/or ejected water of an ejector. Eventually, an inlet of chemical agents (11) and/or an inlet of biological agents (12), an inlet of oxidation agent (13) or an inlet of air (14) lead into ejection and/or ejected water of the ejector.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2010Date of Patent: August 19, 2014Inventors: Josef Ková{hacek over (r)}, Petr Ková{hacek over (r)}
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Patent number: 8778177Abstract: A method and apparatus provide fluid treatment at a plurality of distinct points utilizing magnetic energy concentrated in a plurality of distinct areas along a fluid flow path and at least one region of pulsed fluid treatment within a fluid treatment chamber. The instant invention prevents the formation and accumulation of contaminants within conduits and on equipment utilized in the transportation, delivery and processing of fluid columns. It may also be utilized to accelerate the separation of oil and water and increase the efficiency of oil/water separation equipment.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2011Date of Patent: July 15, 2014Assignee: Wilsa, Inc.Inventor: Herbert William Holland
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Patent number: 8778159Abstract: A method of separating oil and water in a flow-stream through a gravity settling vessel (10) in which the flow-stream (12) separates into a lower water layer (22) and an upper oil layer (26), includes feeding an off-take stream (34) of the oil layer and/or an emulsion layer (20) that forms between the oil layer and the water layer through a compact electrostatic coalescer (CEC) (38) that has electrically isolated electrodes. The CEC coalesces water droplets in the off-take stream, and the coalesced off-take stream is then returned to the settling vessel. An associated separator apparatus for comprises: a gravity settling vessel (10); a CEC (38) including electrically isolated electrodes; a coalescer feed line (34) configured to provide an off-take stream of an oil phase and/or an emulsion layer from the settling vessel to the CEC; and a return line (40) from the CEC for returning the off-take stream to the settling vessel.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 2005Date of Patent: July 15, 2014Assignee: Marks & ClerkInventors: Jon Liverud, Arne Myrvang Gulbraar, Simon Davies
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Patent number: 8778161Abstract: The present invention provides an epoch-making fluid reforming device which requires a small installation site, avoids clogging of pipes, allows uniform on-site adjustment, does not use chemicals or minimizes chemicals ii any, enables germ treatment, and purifies and reforms every fluid including water. The fluid reforming device has (a) a container for fluid reforming having an inlet for introducing an unpurified fluid and an outlet for discharging a purified fluid; (b) a pair or a plurality of pairs of AC application electrodes stored in the container; (c) a cylindrical ground electrode surrounding the AC application electrodes; (d) a polarity switching circuit connected to the AC application electrodes for switching the polarities of the pair of electrodes; and (e) a constant current supply having a current detector for detecting current flowing between the AC application electrodes in fluid reforming, the constant current supply keeping a current value detected by the current detector constant.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2009Date of Patent: July 15, 2014Assignee: Sanko Kogyo Co., Ltd.Inventors: Masatake Chiba, Ikuo Chiba, Hisanori Takahashi
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Publication number: 20140183046Abstract: Disclosed are microfluidic devices and systems for the desalination of water. The devices and systems can include an electrode configured to generate an electric field gradient in proximity to an intersection formed by the divergence of two microfluidic channels from an inlet channel. Under an applied bias and in the presence of a pressure driven flow of saltwater, the electric field gradient can preferentially direct ions in saltwater into one of the diverging microfluidic channels, while desalted water flows into second diverging channel. Also provided are methods of using the devices and systems described herein to decrease the salinity of water.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 20, 2013Publication date: July 3, 2014Applicant: Board of Regents, The University of Texas SystemInventors: Richard A. Crooks, Kyle N. Knust, Robbyn K. Anand
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Publication number: 20140171632Abstract: An apparatus for separating fibrous materials includes: an introduction unit through which fibrous materials capable of performing Brownian motion are introduced; a moving path providing section prepared in a state in which at least one field causing movement of the fibrous materials in a predetermined direction is applied thereto, and providing a moving path for the fibrous materials; at least three capture zone-providing segments provided to the moving path providing section so as to at least temporarily capture the fibrous materials; and an collecting unit collecting the fibrous materials having passed through the moving path providing section. The apparatus and method have improved safety and improved purity of separated fibrous materials, enables separation of large amounts of fibrous materials through a simple separation process, and the apparatus and method have other various advantages inferred from the spirit of the invention. Therefore, the apparatus and method may significantly increase yield.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 12, 2013Publication date: June 19, 2014Applicant: GWANGJU INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGYInventor: Yong-Gu Lee
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Patent number: 8753499Abstract: A deionization apparatus for regenerating electrodes using vibration and a method of controlling the same. The deionization apparatus includes electrodes to which ions contained in a fluid are absorbed, and a piezoelectric element to separate the ions absorbed to the electrodes by vibration. Since the ions absorbed to the electrodes are separated using mechanical energy generated by the piezoelectric element, it may be possible to more rapidly perform regeneration of the electrodes.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2009Date of Patent: June 17, 2014Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Andrey Troshin, Dae Wook Park, Hideo Nojima, Seon Uk Na
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Patent number: 8740600Abstract: An apparatus for charging particles in non-conductive liquids, so they agglomerate and can be removed by filtering, is comprised of a housing which contains a non-conductive insert having a multiplicity of channels. The incoming stream is divided into two halves, each of which is flowed through a set of charging channels which contain electrodes, preferably metal brush-like electrodes. One set of electrodes is charged to a high positive voltage; the other set is charged to a high negative voltage. The liquid streams are then merged and flowed trough a set of mixing channels, along the path of which are one or more reversals in flow direction. The mixing channel path length is substantially longer than the charging channel path length.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2009Date of Patent: June 3, 2014Assignee: Isopur Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Raymond K. Gomes