Patents by Inventor Marilyn J. Niksa
Marilyn J. Niksa has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
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Patent number: 10183875Abstract: A point of use electrolysis system can be used to generate oxidizing species within liquid retained by a point of use discharge nozzle, helping to prevent pathogens from growing and multiplying in the nozzle. In one example, a system includes a point of use discharge nozzle having an inlet and an outlet and electrodes. The electrodes are configured to electrochemically generate an oxidizing species within the point of use discharge nozzle. According to the example, the point of use discharge nozzle is configured to trap liquid from a liquid source, when liquid ceases flowing through the point of use discharge nozzle, thereby providing a trapped liquid. Further, the electrodes are configured to generate the oxidizing species within the trapped liquid.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 2014Date of Patent: January 22, 2019Assignee: Water Star, Inc.Inventors: Marilyn J. Niksa, Andrew J. Niksa
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Patent number: 9365425Abstract: Dissolved oxygen may be generated by adding a peroxide to a fluid stream and then catalytically decomposing the peroxide to generate oxygen. As the peroxide is catalytically decomposed, the oxygen may solubilize in a surrounding fluid so as to provide dissolved oxygen. In some examples, the amount of peroxide added to the fluid stream is controlled such that substantially all of the hydrogen peroxide added to the fluid stream catalytically decomposes and yet the dissolved oxygen concentration of the fluid stream does not exceed a dissolved oxygen saturation limit for the fluid stream.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2013Date of Patent: June 14, 2016Assignee: WATER STAR, INC.Inventors: Marilyn J. Niksa, Andrew J. Niksa
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Publication number: 20150041410Abstract: A point of use electrolysis system can be used to generate oxidizing species within liquid retained by a point of use discharge nozzle, helping to prevent pathogens from growing and multiplying in the nozzle. In one example, a system includes a point of use discharge nozzle having an inlet and an outlet and electrodes. The electrodes are configured to electrochemically generate an oxidizing species within the point of use discharge nozzle. According to the example, the point of use discharge nozzle is configured to trap liquid from a liquid source, when liquid ceases flowing through the point of use discharge nozzle, thereby providing a trapped liquid. Further, the electrodes are configured to generate the oxidizing species within the trapped liquid.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 5, 2014Publication date: February 12, 2015Inventors: Marilyn J. NIKSA, Andrew J. NIKSA
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Patent number: 8580091Abstract: A composition and method of manufacture of electrodes having controlled electrochemical activity to allow the electrodes to be designed for a variety of electro-oxidation processes. The electrodes are comprised of a compact coating deposited onto a conductive substrate, the coating being formed as multiple layers of a mixture of one or more platinum group metal oxides and one or more valve metal oxides. The formation of multiple layers allows the concentrations of platinum group metal and valve metal to be varied for each layer as desired for an application. For example, an electrode structure can be manufactured for use as an anode in electroplating processes, such that the oxidation of the organic additives in the electrolyte is markedly inhibited. Another electrode can be manufactured to operate at high anodic potentials in aqueous electrolytes to generate strong oxidants, e.g., hydrogen peroxide or ozone.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2011Date of Patent: November 12, 2013Assignee: Water Star, Inc.Inventors: Marilyn J. Niksa, Andrew J. Niksa
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Publication number: 20120085571Abstract: A composition and method of manufacture of electrodes having controlled electrochemical activity to allow the electrodes to be designed for a variety of electro-oxidation processes. The electrodes are comprised of a compact coating deposited onto a conductive substrate, the coating being formed as multiple layers of a mixture of one or more platinum group metal oxides and one or more valve metal oxides. The formation of multiple layers allows the concentrations of platinum group metal and valve metal to be varied for each layer as desired for an application. For example, an electrode structure can be manufactured for use as an anode in electroplating processes, such that the oxidation of the organic additives in the electrolyte is markedly inhibited. Another electrode can be manufactured to operate at high anodic potentials in aqueous electrolytes to generate strong oxidants, e.g., hydrogen peroxide or ozone.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 27, 2011Publication date: April 12, 2012Inventors: Marilyn J. Niksa, Andrew J. Niksa
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Publication number: 20110135562Abstract: High concentrations of hypochlorous acid can be produced from, most typically, brine using an system of simple design with minimum residual salt production, reduced power consumption, and at high operating efficiencies. This is accomplished by separating the system into two operations, each of which is preferably optimized. This process employs at least two electrochemical cells, the first of which has no separator between the anode and cathode and generates a high-strength hypochlorite solution. The hypochlorite is then diluted to a desired chlorine concentration and/or pH and fed into the anode compartment of a second electrochemical cell wherein the electrodes are separated by a barrier, such as, for example, a membrane or diaphragm. The separated cell produces a solution containing predominantly hypochlorous acid.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 23, 2010Publication date: June 9, 2011Applicants: Terriss Consolidated Industries, Inc., Water Star, Inc.Inventors: Marilyn J. Niksa, Andrew J. Niksa, Marc J. Epstein, Steven Seiden
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Patent number: 5972181Abstract: An electrode, electrochemical cell, and electrochemical processes are disclosed. The electrode is a porous, multi-layered electrode which can have an element in flexible, strip form wound around a central, usually flat plate core, which core may serve as a current distributor. In any form, each layer can be represented by a very thin, highly flexible metal mesh. This can be a fine, as opposed to a coarse, mesh which has extremely thin strands and small voids. The electrode will have an active coating. For utilizing this electrode, the cell in one form will be a monopolar cell providing upward, parallel electrolyte flow through the porous, multi-layered electrode. A representative cell can have such electrode at least substantially filling an electrode chamber. The cells can be contained in a cell box that will provide the desired flow-through relationship for the electrolyte to the electrode.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 1998Date of Patent: October 26, 1999Assignee: Eltech Systems, Corp.Inventors: Richard J. Coin, Lynne M. Ernes, Andy W. Getsy, Kenneth L. Hardee, Marilyn J. Niksa
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Patent number: 5804055Abstract: An electrode, electrochemical cell, and electrochemical processes are disclosed. The electrode is a porous, multi-layered electrode which can have an element in flexible, strip form wound around a central, usually flat plate core, which core may serve as a current distributor. In any form, each layer can be represented by a very thin, highly flexible metal mesh. This can be a fine, as opposed to a coarse, mesh which has extremely thin strands and small voids. The electrode will have an active coating. For utilizing this electrode, the cell in one form will be a monopolar cell providing upward, parallel electrolyte flow through the porous, multi-layered electrode. A representative cell can have such electrode at least substantially filling an electrode chamber. The cells can be contained in a cell box that will provide the desired flow-through relationship for the electrolyte to the electrode.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 1997Date of Patent: September 8, 1998Assignee: Eltech Systems CorporationInventors: Richard J. Coin, Lynne M. Ernes, Andy W. Getsy, Edward M. Halko, Kenneth L. Hardee, Marilyn J. Niksa
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Patent number: 5783050Abstract: An electrode, electrochemical cell, and electrochemical processes are disclosed. The electrode is a porous, multi-layered electrode which can have an element in flexible, strip form wound around a central, usually flat plate core, which core may serve as a current distributor. In any form, each layer can be represented by a very thin, highly flexible metal mesh. This can be a fine, as opposed to a coarse, mesh which has extremely thin strands and small voids. The electrode will have an active coating. For utilizing this electrode, the cell in one form will be a monopolar cell providing upward, parallel electrolyte flow through the porous, multi-layered electrode. A representative cell can have such electrode at least substantially filling an electrode chamber. The cells can be contained in a cell box that will provide the desired flow-through relationship for the electrolyte to the electrode.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 1995Date of Patent: July 21, 1998Assignee: Eltech Systems CorporationInventors: Richard J. Coin, Lynne M. Ernes, Andy W. Getsy, Kenneth L. Hardee, Marilyn J. Niksa
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Patent number: 5705051Abstract: An electrode, electrochemical cell, and electrochemical processes are disclosed. The electrode is a porous, multi-layered electrode which can have an element in flexible, strip form wound around a central, usually flat plate core, which core may serve as a current distributor. In any form, each layer can be represented by a very thin, highly flexible metal mesh. This can be a fine, as opposed to a coarse, mesh which has extremely thin strands and small voids. The electrode will have an active coating. For utilizing this electrode, the cell in one form will be a monopolar cell providing upward, parallel electrolyte flow through the porous, multi-layered electrode. A representative cell can have such electrode at least substantially filling an electrode chamber. The cells can be contained in a cell box that will provide the desired flow-through relationship for the electrolyte to the electrode.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 1996Date of Patent: January 6, 1998Assignee: Dravo Lime CompanyInventors: Richard J. Coin, Lynne M. Ernes, Andy W. Getsy, Edward M. Halko, Kenneth L. Hardee, Marilyn J. Niksa
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Patent number: 5421977Abstract: The present invention relates to a filter press electrolyzer of the type having front and rear bulkheads. The electrolyzer comprises an electrolytic cell between the bulkheads. The cell comprises a pair of planar electrode assemblies, typically including a center compartment assembly therebetween, all in a stacked relationship. Separators are clamped between the electrode and center compartment assemblies. Each electrode assembly comprises an annular frame defining an electrolyte chamber, a planar electrode member having an electrode active area within said chamber, and a current distributing bus on the side of the electrode member which is opposite the side facing the separator. The current distributing bus has a planar surface area which is substantially co-extensive with the electrode active area. Each of the electrode assemblies comprises a plurality of spaced-apart separator strips affixed to the electrode member on the side opposite the current distributing bus.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 1993Date of Patent: June 6, 1995Assignee: Eltech Systems CorporationInventors: Andy W. Getsy, Marilyn J. Niksa
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Patent number: 5196276Abstract: A compact reserve battery is disclosed comprising a cell housing, an expandable cell stack contained within a first portion of the housing, and an electrolyte reservoir contained within a second portion of the housing. The cell stack is expandable into the housing second portion, expansion of the cell stack displacing electrolyte from the electrolyte reservoir into the cell stack, thereby activating the battery.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 1991Date of Patent: March 23, 1993Assignee: Eltech Systems CorporationInventors: Marilyn J. Niksa, Kenneth J. Gregg, Jay M. Noscal, Roger J. Chmura
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Patent number: 5164480Abstract: The present invention relates to the direct electrolysis of tall oil soap (TOS) to produce crude tall oil (CTO). An aqueous tall oil soap solution generated in a kraft wood-pulping process is placed in contact with an anode in an electrolytic cell, wherein the tall oil soap is dissassociated to form crude tall oil and free sodium ions. The sodium ions migrate through a membrane to associate with hydroxide ions formed in a cathode chamber to form NaOH, which may optionally be recycled to the kraft pulping process as a make-up chemical for lost sodium. The crude tall oil is recovered from the electrolyzed tall oil soap solution for further refinement. Optionally, the tall oil soap solution is treated prior to electrolysis to remove components which may interfere with the electrolysis.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 1991Date of Patent: November 17, 1992Assignee: Union Camp CorporationInventors: Derk T. A. Huibers, Roger W. Daniels, Marilyn J. Niksa, Richard J. Coin, Joseph Elliott
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Patent number: 5049457Abstract: An aqueous electrolyte aluminum-air battery comprises one or more cells, each cell comprising a frame which defines an electrolyte chamber. The frame is made of a rigid material inactive to the electrolyte. The cell has a consumable aluminum anode and an air cathode spaced from the anode by said electrolyte chamber. Means are provided for admitting electrolyte solution into the electrolyte chamber. A vent exposes the electrolyte chamber to atmosphere. A hydrophobic membrane which is impermeable to the passage of electrolyte but permeable to the passage of hydrogen closes the vent. A surface of each cell anode is exposed to the flow of air. The amount of surface exposed is effective to dissipate heat generated at the anode.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 1990Date of Patent: September 17, 1991Assignee: Eltech Systems CorporationInventors: Marilyn J. Niksa, Andrew J. Niksa, Jay M. Noscal
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Patent number: 4927717Abstract: A bipolar battery assembly of the consumable metal anode type is described. Contact between internal battery elements is now enhanced by air assisted, internally exerted compressive force. Battery elements are constructed in modular manner that assists in the ease of battery assembly and disassembly. Furthermore, ease of anode replenishment is maintained. A multitude of individual cells can now be joined together in an efficient bipolar assembly cell stack for augmented electrical energy generation. In addition to being bipolar, the battery is of rugged construction, providing for dependable, long-life operation that is desirably maintenance-free.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 1989Date of Patent: May 22, 1990Assignee: ELTECH Systems CorporationInventors: Homer L. Turley, Marilyn J. Niksa, Gerald R. Pohto, Andrew J. Niksa
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Patent number: 4925744Abstract: An aqueous electrolyte aluminum-air battery comprises one or more cells, each cell comprising a frame which defines an electrolyte chamber. The frame is made of a rigid material inactive to the electrolyte. The cell has a consumable aluminum anode and an air cathode spaced from the anode by said electrolyte chamber. Means are provided for admitting electrolyte solution into the electrolyte chamber. A vent exposes the electrolyte chamber to atmosphere. A hydrophobic membrane which is impermeable to the passage of the electrolyte but permeable to the passage of hydrogen closes the vent. A surface of each cell anode is exposed to the flow of air. The amount of surface exposed is effective to dissipate heat generated at the anode.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 1989Date of Patent: May 15, 1990Assignee: Eltech Systems CorporationInventors: Marilyn J. Niksa, Andrew J. Niksa, Jay M. Noscal
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Patent number: 4911993Abstract: A bipolar battery having a consumable metal anode and being of the filter-press type is described. Internal battery contact is obtained by pressure connection transmitted virtually all, to completely, by end bulkheads. A multitude of adjoning cells can be placed together in a bipolar assembly cell stack. Yet the battery is compact and lightweight.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 1988Date of Patent: March 27, 1990Assignee: ELTECH Systems CorporationInventors: Homer L. Turley, Marilyn J. Niksa, Richard J. Coin, Thomas J. Schue
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Patent number: 4828939Abstract: A bipolar battery assembly of the consumable metal anode type is described. Contact between internal battery elements is now enhanced by air assisted, internally exerted compressive force. Battery elements are constructed in modular manner that assists in the ease of battery assembly and disassembly. Furthermore, ease of anode replenishment is maintained. A multitude of individual cells can now be joined together in an efficient bipolar assembly cell stack for augmented electrical energy generation. In addition to being bipolar, the battery is of rugged construction, providing for dependable, long-life operation that is desirably maintenance-free.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 1987Date of Patent: May 9, 1989Assignee: ELTECH Systems CorporationInventors: Homer L. Turley, Marilyn J. Niksa, Gerald R. Pohto, Andrew J. Niksa
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Patent number: 4788764Abstract: A battery assembly of the consumable metal anode type has now been constructed for ready assembly as well as disassembly. In a non-conductive and at least substantially inert cell body, space is provided for receiving an open-structured, non-consumable anode cage. The cage has an open top for facilitating insertion of an anode. A modular cathode is used, comprising a peripheral current conductor frame clamped about a grid reinforced air cathode in sheet form. The air cathode may be double gridded. The cathode frame can be sealed, during assembly, with electrolyte-resistant-sealant as well as with adhesive. The resulting cathode module can be assembled outside the cell body and readily inserted therein, or can later be easily removed therefrom.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 1988Date of Patent: December 6, 1988Assignee: Eltech Systems CorporationInventors: Marilyn J. Niksa, Gerald R. Pohto, Leslie K. Lakatos, Douglas J. Wheeler, Frank Solomon, Andrew J. Niksa, Thomas J. Schue, Yury Genodman, Thomas R. Turk, Daniel P. Hagel
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Patent number: 4788111Abstract: Batteries comprising an anode and liquid electrolyte produce an electrolyte effluent which may contain a solid particulate discharge. This discharge product inhibits the efficient generation of electrical power by the battery. It has been discovered that this solid particulate discharge may be effectively and economically separated from the electrolyte on a continuous basis by a solids separation means comprising a container having an axis and an impeller. This system provides for the efficient generation of electrical power.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 1987Date of Patent: November 29, 1988Assignee: ELTECH Systems CorporationInventors: Marilyn J. Niksa, Kenneth J. Branchick, Thomas R. Turk