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).

  • Patent number: 10183875
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2019
    Assignee: Water Star, Inc.
    Inventors: Marilyn J. Niksa, Andrew J. Niksa
  • Patent number: 9365425
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Assignee: WATER STAR, INC.
    Inventors: Marilyn J. Niksa, Andrew J. Niksa
  • Publication number: 20150041410
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2014
    Publication date: February 12, 2015
    Inventors: Marilyn J. NIKSA, Andrew J. NIKSA
  • Patent number: 8580091
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Water Star, Inc.
    Inventors: Marilyn J. Niksa, Andrew J. Niksa
  • Publication number: 20120085571
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2011
    Publication date: April 12, 2012
    Inventors: Marilyn J. Niksa, Andrew J. Niksa
  • Publication number: 20110135562
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2010
    Publication date: June 9, 2011
    Applicants: Terriss Consolidated Industries, Inc., Water Star, Inc.
    Inventors: Marilyn J. Niksa, Andrew J. Niksa, Marc J. Epstein, Steven Seiden
  • Patent number: 5972181
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Assignee: Eltech Systems, Corp.
    Inventors: Richard J. Coin, Lynne M. Ernes, Andy W. Getsy, Kenneth L. Hardee, Marilyn J. Niksa
  • Patent number: 5804055
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1998
    Assignee: Eltech Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Richard J. Coin, Lynne M. Ernes, Andy W. Getsy, Edward M. Halko, Kenneth L. Hardee, Marilyn J. Niksa
  • Patent number: 5783050
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1998
    Assignee: Eltech Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Richard J. Coin, Lynne M. Ernes, Andy W. Getsy, Kenneth L. Hardee, Marilyn J. Niksa
  • Patent number: 5705051
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 6, 1998
    Assignee: Dravo Lime Company
    Inventors: Richard J. Coin, Lynne M. Ernes, Andy W. Getsy, Edward M. Halko, Kenneth L. Hardee, Marilyn J. Niksa
  • Patent number: 5421977
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 6, 1995
    Assignee: Eltech Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Andy W. Getsy, Marilyn J. Niksa
  • Patent number: 5196276
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 23, 1993
    Assignee: Eltech Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Marilyn J. Niksa, Kenneth J. Gregg, Jay M. Noscal, Roger J. Chmura
  • Patent number: 5164480
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1992
    Assignee: Union Camp Corporation
    Inventors: Derk T. A. Huibers, Roger W. Daniels, Marilyn J. Niksa, Richard J. Coin, Joseph Elliott
  • Patent number: 5049457
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1990
    Date of Patent: September 17, 1991
    Assignee: Eltech Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Marilyn J. Niksa, Andrew J. Niksa, Jay M. Noscal
  • Patent number: 4927717
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 1989
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1990
    Assignee: ELTECH Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Homer L. Turley, Marilyn J. Niksa, Gerald R. Pohto, Andrew J. Niksa
  • Patent number: 4925744
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1989
    Date of Patent: May 15, 1990
    Assignee: Eltech Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Marilyn J. Niksa, Andrew J. Niksa, Jay M. Noscal
  • Patent number: 4911993
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1988
    Date of Patent: March 27, 1990
    Assignee: ELTECH Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Homer L. Turley, Marilyn J. Niksa, Richard J. Coin, Thomas J. Schue
  • Patent number: 4828939
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 1987
    Date of Patent: May 9, 1989
    Assignee: ELTECH Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Homer L. Turley, Marilyn J. Niksa, Gerald R. Pohto, Andrew J. Niksa
  • Patent number: 4788764
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1988
    Date of Patent: December 6, 1988
    Assignee: Eltech Systems Corporation
    Inventors: 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
  • Patent number: 4788111
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 1987
    Date of Patent: November 29, 1988
    Assignee: ELTECH Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Marilyn J. Niksa, Kenneth J. Branchick, Thomas R. Turk