Biological (e.g., Sterilizing, Etc.) Patents (Class 205/701)
-
Patent number: 11603596Abstract: An electrolytic cell, including a plurality of electrodes arranged to define a plurality of channels between adjacent electrodes is disclosed. Each channel is in fluid communication adjacent a first end with a first adjacent channel and is in fluid communication adjacent to a second end with a second adjacent channel. The electrolytic cell may be optimized for high concentration output of hypochlorite. The electrolytic cell may be used in conjunction with a plurality of cells operated collectively to provide operational efficiencies as compared to traditional hypochlorite generators.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2020Date of Patent: March 14, 2023Assignee: Electrichlor, LLCInventors: Kent Douglas Henry, Malcolm Barrie Bentley
-
Patent number: 11267727Abstract: A water sterilization device includes: (1) a conduit; (2) a first porous electrode housed in the conduit; (3) a second porous electrode housed in the conduit and disposed adjacent to the first porous electrode; and (4) an electrical source coupled to the first porous electrode and the second porous electrode to apply a voltage difference between the first porous electrode and the second porous electrode. The conduit is configured to provide passage of a fluid stream through the first porous electrode and the second porous electrode, and an inactivation efficiency of pathogens in the fluid stream is at least about 99%, such as at least about 99.9% or at least about 99.95%.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2013Date of Patent: March 8, 2022Assignee: THE BD OF TRUSTEES OF THE LELAND STANFORD JR UNIVInventors: Yi Cui, Chong Liu, Sangmoo Jeong, Alexandria Boehm
-
Patent number: 11253044Abstract: The Pro Sponge Rejuvenator is sponge cleaner for cleaning a plurality of used sponges, comprising: a liquid-tight container in which stems which extend from a platform toward a bottom of the container are oscillate-able to rub the sponges against the bottom by an oscillation means connected to the platform and supported by the bottom. The Pro Sponge Rejuvenator cleans sponges using a cleaning solution that is filtered with every sponge cleaning oscillation up/down stroke of the apparatus through the use of one-way flow valves under the sponges and a central tube with filter media. The Pro Sponge Rejuvenator is ideal for cleaning sponges and especially cosmetics makeup sponges.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2020Date of Patent: February 22, 2022Inventor: Asia Royal Tubbs
-
Patent number: 11180381Abstract: A water treatment device, preferably a device used for treating waters intended for a domestic and/or industrial use, includes a filtration apparatus and an ionization apparatus accommodated together in a container.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2018Date of Patent: November 23, 2021Inventor: Walter Villa
-
Patent number: 11161115Abstract: Aspects of the present disclosure are directed to a pH control device. The device comprises a substrate, on which is defined a flow path adapted to receive a liquid. The device further comprises a set of electrodes, which includes a pH sensing electrode and pH generation electrodes. The electrodes are arranged along the flow path. The pH sensing electrode is arranged so as to be subjected to a change in pH of a portion of the liquid on the flow path, as caused by the pH generation electrodes. In addition, the device includes a controller, which is configured to apply a voltage across the pH generation electrodes, based on a signal obtained via the pH sensing electrode and a reference electrode. This enables local control a pH of the liquid portion. The device may further be embodied as a sensor, additionally comprising a detection electrode.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2019Date of Patent: November 2, 2021Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Neil Ebejer, Patrick Ruch
-
Patent number: 11161114Abstract: Aspects of the present disclosure are directed to a pH control device. The device comprises a substrate, on which is defined a flow path adapted to receive a liquid. The device further comprises a set of electrodes, which includes a pH sensing electrode and pH generation electrodes. The electrodes are arranged along the flow path. The pH sensing electrode is arranged so as to be subjected to a change in pH of a portion of the liquid on the flow path, as caused by the pH generation electrodes. In addition, the device includes a controller, which is configured to apply a voltage across the pH generation electrodes, based on a signal obtained via the pH sensing electrode and a reference electrode. This enables local control a pH of the liquid portion. The device may further be embodied as a sensor, additionally comprising a detection electrode.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2019Date of Patent: November 2, 2021Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Neil Ebejer, Patrick Ruch
-
Patent number: 10974975Abstract: An electrolytic zinc dosing device that regulates the amount of zinc delivered or dosed into a flowing stream of water as a function, in part, of the current applied to an electrolytic cell and the flow rate of the flowing water. A replaceable electrolytic cell having an anode and a cathode connected to a power supply, and at least one bipolar electrode in aqueous solution between the anode and cathode. Flow rate information and/or total current information are used to determine the dosing quantity of zinc delivered.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2020Date of Patent: April 13, 2021Assignee: Ecowater Systems LLCInventors: Robert Astle, George Dimotsis
-
Patent number: 10961133Abstract: The systems and methods described herein relate to use of a reverse diffusion system for removal of dissolved ions from a fluid, for example, salt ions. Specific embodiments include a system for desalinating salt water to produce potable water. The systems and methods can include pulsing low levels of electricity via electrodes in a scrolling pattern, so as to sweep the ions across a unit.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2019Date of Patent: March 30, 2021Assignee: Signal One International IP, LLCInventors: James Albert Coates, Charles R. Coates
-
Patent number: 10784092Abstract: A method and apparatus for sputter depositing an insulation layer onto a surface of a cavity formed in a substrate and having a high aspect ratio is provided. A target formed at least in part from a material to be included in the insulation layer and the substrate are provided in a substantially enclosed chamber defined by a housing. A plasma is ignited within the substantially enclosed chamber and a magnetic field is provided adjacent to a surface of the target to at least partially contain the plasma adjacent to the surface of the target. A voltage is rapidly increased to repeatedly establish high-power electric pulses between a cathode and an anode. An average power of the electric pulses is at least 0.1 kW, and can optionally be much greater. An operational parameter of the sputter deposition is controlled to promote sputter depositing of the insulation layer in a transition mode between a metallic mode and a reactive mode.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 2008Date of Patent: September 22, 2020Assignee: EVATEC AGInventors: Juergen Weichart, Stanislav Kadlec, Mohamed Elghazzali
-
Patent number: 10683578Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for producing electrolyzed water. In exemplary embodiments, a fluid container capable of storing a brine solution therein is used. An electrolytic cell is disposed within the fluid container and in communication with the brine solution. A power source is in electrical communication with the electrolytic cell, a pump is disposed in the fluid container; as is a chlorometer. A fluid container head is in removable mechanical communication with the fluid container, the fluid container head including a nozzle in fluid communication with the pump, a trigger in electrical communication with the pump, and a power switch in communication with the power source. A controller is in communication with the chlorometer and the electrolytic cell, the controller operating the electrolytic cell to convert the brine solution to a cleaning solution.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2018Date of Patent: June 16, 2020Assignee: EcoLogic Solutions Inc.Inventors: Anselm Karl Doering, Joshua George Knight, Edward Amoako
-
Patent number: 10683217Abstract: The systems and methods described herein relate to use of a reverse diffusion system for removal of dissolved ions from a fluid, for example, salt ions. Specific embodiments include a system for desalinating salt water to produce potable water. The systems and methods can include pulsing low levels of electricity via electrodes in a scrolling pattern, so as to sweep the ions across a unit.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2017Date of Patent: June 16, 2020Assignee: Signal One International IP, LLCInventors: James Albert Coates, Charles R. Coates
-
Patent number: 10532356Abstract: Aspects of the present disclosure are directed to a pH control device. The device comprises a substrate, on which is defined a flow path adapted to receive a liquid. The device further comprises a set of electrodes, which includes a pH sensing electrode and pH generation electrodes. The electrodes are arranged along the flow path. The pH sensing electrode is arranged so as to be subjected to a change in pH of a portion of the liquid on the flow path, as caused by the pH generation electrodes. In addition, the device includes a controller, which is configured to apply a voltage across the pH generation electrodes, based on a signal obtained via the pH sensing electrode and a reference electrode. This enables local control a pH of the liquid portion. The device may further be embodied as a sensor, additionally comprising a detection electrode.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2017Date of Patent: January 14, 2020Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Neil Ebejer, Patrick Ruch
-
Patent number: 10421956Abstract: In accordance with the present disclosure, exposure of a sample to one or more electric pulses via capacitive coupling is described. In certain embodiments, the sample may be a biological sample to be treated or modified using the pulsed electric fields. In certain embodiments, the electric pulses may be delivered to a load using capacitive coupling. In other embodiments, the electric pulses may be bipolar pulses.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2018Date of Patent: September 24, 2019Assignee: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANYInventors: Antonio Caiafa, Vasile Bogdan Neculaes, Allen Lawrence Garner, Andrew Soliz Torres
-
Patent number: 10414675Abstract: Process for capturing and cleaning up pollutants by the formation of cement or concrete by electrolysis, the creation of a rocky conglomerate, assembly of sediments linked together by a calcium-magnesium deposit acting as binder. This process is thus applicable to the decontamination of ports, by enabling the capture of pollutants and by containing them in a sediment matrix.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2014Date of Patent: September 17, 2019Assignee: GEOCORAILInventors: Brahim Benaissa, Nicolas Verjat, Marc Lansard
-
Patent number: 10329551Abstract: In accordance with the present disclosure, exposure of a sample to one or more electric pulses via capacitive coupling is described. In certain embodiments, the sample may be a biological sample to be treated or modified using the pulsed electric fields. In certain embodiments, the electric pulses may be delivered to a load using capacitive coupling. In other embodiments, the electric pulses may be bipolar pulses.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 2017Date of Patent: June 25, 2019Assignee: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANYInventors: Antonio Caiafa, Vasile Bogdan Neculaes, Allen Lawrence Garner, Andrew Soliz Torres
-
Patent number: 10287189Abstract: Electrocoagulation (EC) reactors having pellet flow circuits are disclosed. In one embodiment, the EC reactor includes a reactor vessel having a first inlet and an outlet through which a contaminated feed stream is received and discharged, respectively. An EC reaction chamber is located within the reactor vessel, fluidly coupled between the first inlet and the outlet, and configured to be loaded with consumable EC pellets. The EC reactor further includes an EC pellet flow circuit around which the consumable EC pellets circulate as the contaminated feed stream flows through the EC reaction chamber. First and second electrodes are coupled to the reactor vessel and positioned to generate an electrical field. The consumable EC pellets are exposed to (e.g., pass through or circulate within) the electrical field to induce coagulation of contaminants within the contaminated feed stream as the feed stream flows through the EC reaction chamber.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 2016Date of Patent: May 14, 2019Assignee: CARDEN Water Systems, LLCInventor: Marc Tedhams
-
Patent number: 10082477Abstract: The present invention is one that makes it possible to continuously measure the resistivity of a liquid sample with accuracy as well as preventing the deterioration of the liquid sample associated with measurement, such as change in quality, and relates to a resistivity-measuring circuit C that measures the resistivity in order to sense the deterioration of the liquid sample. The resistivity-measuring circuit C is one that calculates the resistivity of the liquid sample by detecting voltage generated between an outer electrode and an inner electrode, and between the outer electrode and the inner electrode, applies square wave AC voltage having an amplitude of 1 V to 42 V and a frequency of 0.5 Hz to 30 Hz.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2014Date of Patent: September 25, 2018Assignee: HORIBA ADVANCED TECHNO, CO., LTD.Inventors: Riichiro Suzuki, Tsunetoshi Sugawara, Tadashi Oshio
-
Patent number: 9962404Abstract: Described herein are systems, apparatus, and methods for electrolyzing liquids to create beneficial compositions, such as life enhancing compositions.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2012Date of Patent: May 8, 2018Assignee: Reoxcyn Innovation Group, LLCInventors: Daniel Robinson, James Pack
-
Patent number: 9895189Abstract: A method for treating an infection using irreversible electroporation is presented. The method includes providing an ablation device that has at least one electrode and inserting the ablation device into a target tissue of a patient. The tissue at least partially surrounds the implanted medical device. The outer surface of the medical device is at least partially covered by infectious cells. The method also involves positioning at least one electrode in or near the implanted medical device and delivering electrical pulses to or near the implanted medical device sufficient to irreversibly electroporate the infectious cells.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 2014Date of Patent: February 20, 2018Assignee: AngioDynamics, Inc.Inventor: Robert Pearson
-
Patent number: 9839708Abstract: Provided is a method for treating a used absorbent article, this method being hygienic and capable of recovering recyclable material with a high degree of safety. This method for treating a used absorbent article is characterized by including (a) an acidic electrolyzed water treatment step that treats the used absorbent article in a treatment tank that has acidic electrolyzed water serve as a treatment fluid. This method preferably further includes (b) an alkaline electrolyzed water treatment step that treats the used absorbent article in a treatment tank that has alkaline electrolyzed water as a treatment fluid.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 2013Date of Patent: December 12, 2017Assignee: Unicharm CorporationInventors: Masashi Yamaguchi, Takayoshi Konishi, Toru Oba
-
Patent number: 9579765Abstract: A sensor for detection and measurement of a particular substance present in a liquid is disclosed. The sensor includes a non-circular or non-symmetrically fixed electrode for detection and measurement of a particular substance present in a liquid in which said sensor is submersed. The sensor with non-circular or non-symmetrically fixed electrode and method of using the same reduces or eliminates electrode deformation upon residue removal therefrom thereby prolonging operating life.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 2013Date of Patent: February 28, 2017Assignee: General Electric Technology GmbHInventor: Rikard Håkansson
-
Patent number: 9512024Abstract: A system and process are provided for the disinfection of sewage sludge or solids without the addition of chemicals such as chlorine etc. or/and reverse osmosis. The treated sludge or solids can be deposited on landfills or used as fertilizer.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 2013Date of Patent: December 6, 2016Inventors: Alexander Blake, Hilary Boehme, Barbara Blake, Glen A. Menture, Jeffrey Goldberg, Andrea Monick
-
Patent number: 9493369Abstract: An oxidizer generating apparatus comprising a cylindrical housing and an electrode assembly attached at one end of the housing comprising at least three vertically disposed electrodes, the electrodes being spaced apart so as to define a water flow path between them, the electrodes comprising titanium outer electrodes and at least one inner diamond electrode.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2016Date of Patent: November 15, 2016Assignee: Watkins Manufacturing CorporationInventor: Michael McCague
-
Patent number: 9403700Abstract: An oxidizer generating apparatus comprising a cylindrical housing and an electrode assembly attached at one end of the housing comprising at least three vertically disposed electrodes, the electrodes being spaced apart so as to define a water flow path between them, the electrodes comprising titanium outer electrodes and at least one inner diamond electrode.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2015Date of Patent: August 2, 2016Assignee: Watkins Manufacturing CorporationInventor: Michael McCague
-
Patent number: 9271671Abstract: A technique is provided, wherein any influence, which would be otherwise exerted on a reaction of an objective substance caused by a reagent enzyme by an interfering substance contained in a specimen, is suppressed in relation to an electrochemical sensor for measuring the objective substance contained in the specimen. A sensor comprises a substrate; a detecting unit which is provided on the substrate and which detects an objective substance; a filter which covers the detecting unit, which permits permeation of the objective substance on one hand, and which regulates permeation of an interfering substance contained in a sample on the other hand; and removing unit which removes the interfering substance adhered to the filter.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2011Date of Patent: March 1, 2016Assignee: ARKRAY, Inc.Inventors: Yasunori Shiraki, Koji Katsuki, Kazuya Iketani
-
Patent number: 8940143Abstract: An embodiment of the invention relates to a biochip comprising at least two measurement electrodes, a synthesis electrode, a ground electrode, a gap between the at least two measurement electrodes, a porous dielectric isolation layer and a gel comprising a probe in the gap, wherein the porous dielectric isolation layer is between the synthesis electrode and the gel. Yet other embodiments relate to the method of manufacturing the biochip and using the biochip for electrical detection of bio-species.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2007Date of Patent: January 27, 2015Assignee: Intel CorporationInventors: Valery M. Dubin, Nikolay Suetin
-
Patent number: 8871146Abstract: An object of the present invention is to efficiently sterilize microorganisms present in or on a surface of a liquid. Plasma is generated in a vicinity of or in a manner to make contact with a liquid whose pH value is adjusted to become 4.8 or lower, more preferably 4.5 or lower. The plasma is generated in an atmospheric gas containing nitrogen, e.g., in the air. Superoxide anion radicals (O2?.) that are generated by the plasma react with protons (H+) in the liquid to form hydroperoxy radicals (HOO.). Further, nitrogen and oxygen included in the air are combined together by the action of plasma to form nitrogen oxide such as nitric oxide (NO.). The nitric oxide (NO.) combines with the hydroperoxy radicals (HOO.) to become peroxynitrite (ONOOH(ONOO?)) having a high microbiocidal activity.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2010Date of Patent: October 28, 2014Inventors: Satoshi Ikawa, Katsuhisa Kitano, Satoshi Hamaguchi
-
Patent number: 8808527Abstract: A method of sterilizing water that includes: immersing at least one electrode unit having a negative electrode within a container and a positive electrode within the container, the positive electrode separated from and facing the negative electrode, wherein the negative electrode has a plurality of negative electrode projections thereon, and the positive electrode has a plurality of positive electrode projections thereon, each positive electrode projection arranged to face and be aligned with each negative electrode projection one by one; and, supplying direct current by at least one power supply to the electrode unit immersed under the water.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2012Date of Patent: August 19, 2014Inventor: Chil-Young Kim
-
Patent number: 8709231Abstract: The invention relates to a method for enriching water with oxygen by an electrolytic process, that comprises the following series of steps: the electrolysis of Cl? Br? ion-free water in an electrolysis cell in which the anode and the cathode are separated by a gas-tight membrane that is pervious to electric charges; b) recovering the oxygen-enriched water from the anode compartment of the electrolysis cell.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2008Date of Patent: April 29, 2014Assignee: Compagnie Gervais DanoneInventors: Christophe Lascoste, Stéphane Brunner, Liliana Jimenez, Alexis Klein
-
Patent number: 8641886Abstract: An electrolytic method for treatment of water to increase the dissolved oxygen content, the method including: (a) contacting the water with at least one first electrode device; (b) providing at least one second electrode device in non-physical, electrical contact with the water; (c) introducing an oxidant to the water, and (d) passing an electric current between the second electrode device and the first electrode device, so as to establish an electric field in the water of sufficient strength and duration to effect the electrolytic dissociation of the water to produce dissolved oxygen and/or hydrogen species.Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 2009Date of Patent: February 4, 2014Inventor: Andrew Peter Musson
-
Patent number: 8603320Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for generating and applying a sanitizing liquid. The method includes moving a mobile floor cleaning device along a floor and electrochemically activating a liquid on the mobile floor cleaning device by passing the liquid through a functional generator having first and second electrode chambers that are separated by an ion exchange membrane such that the liquid activated in the first electrode chamber comprises O3 molecules. Substantially all of the liquid activated in the first and second electrode chambers are dispensed from the device within 5 seconds of the time at which the liquids are activated by the functional generator without an intermediate step of storing either of the liquids produced in the first or second electrode chambers. At least some of the dispensed liquid is recovered from the floor with a recovery device carried by the mobile floor cleaning device.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2011Date of Patent: December 10, 2013Assignee: Tennant CompanyInventor: Bruce F. Field
-
Patent number: 8518233Abstract: The present invention relates to a manufacturing method of medical sterilized normal saline, more specifically, to such a method for manufacturing sterilized normal saline for medical purpose with effective sterilizing efficacy comprising: a step of disposing at least one electrode set immersed in saline solution of pH 4.0 to pH 7.5 including a pair of electrodes with flat surface separated from each other by an interval between 1 mm and 3 mm, the flat surfaces of the electrodes facing each other; and a step of supplying 30 mA to 200 mA direct current to the electrodes by applying 2.4V to 3.3V DC power to the electrodes; wherein free chlorine is reliably and stably generated as having concentration range between 0.17 ppm and 6 ppm from electrolysis between electrodes.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2008Date of Patent: August 27, 2013Inventor: Chil-Young Kim
-
Publication number: 20130213821Abstract: A method for automated in situ determining an analyte content of a liquid sample by means of a bioanalyzer, wherein a measurement duct has at least one substrate, comprising a repeatedly performable sequence of steps as follows: (i) preparing a sensor matrix, which has a plurality of receptors, which bind the analyte and/or a further target molecule, or bring about a chemical conversion of the analyte or of the further target molecule, leading through the measurement duct a preparation solution of at least a first chemical species, wherein a plurality of the first chemical species are bound on the substrate via the functional group binding on the substrate, wherein the other functional group of the plurality of the first chemical species bound on the substrate serves as a receptor or for subsequent binding of a receptor; (ii) leading the liquid sample, through the measurement duct, wherein analyte contained in the liquid sample or in the liquid to be measured, and/or other target molecules contained in the liType: ApplicationFiled: August 26, 2011Publication date: August 22, 2013Inventors: Michael Hanko, Angela Eubisch, Axel Fikus
-
Publication number: 20130196441Abstract: Provided herein are the concept that “singularity-based configuration” electrodes design and method can produce in an ionic substance local high electric fields with low potential differences between electrodes. The singularity-based configuration described here includes: an anode electrode; a cathode electrode; and an insulator disposed between the anode electrode and the cathode electrode. The singularity-based electrode design concept refers to electrodes in which the anode and cathode are adjacent to each other, placed essentially co-planar and are separated by an insulator. The essentially co-planar anode/insulator/cathode configuration bound one surface of the volume of interest and produce desired electric fields locally, i.e., in the vicinity of the interface between the anode and cathode. In an ideal configuration, the interface dimension between the anode and the cathode tends to zero and becomes a point of singularity.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 31, 2011Publication date: August 1, 2013Applicant: THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIAInventors: Boris Rubinsky, Gregory D. Troszak
-
Patent number: 8491775Abstract: Water sanitizing apparatus is provided for pools, spas hot tubs and other similar bathing facilities that integrates an ozone generator and a chlorine generator in one unit, in addition to exposing a flow of water to be purified to ultraviolet radiation from the ozone generator for advanced oxidation reactions. In one embodiment, a mixing venturi allows for mixing various substances together prior to insertion into the motive flow. In another embodiment the venturi is constructed as inserts that allow tuning of the venturi for individual systems. In other embodiments, salt is added to a portion of the water flow as a concentrated brine from which chlorine is generated, or the salt may be simply be added to the water of the facility at a much lower concentration and chlorine generated from the flow of water through the apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2007Date of Patent: July 23, 2013Inventor: Ronald L. Barnes
-
Patent number: 8486252Abstract: A two-in-one copper chloride/copper bromide disinfector and a method of controlling the same. In operation, when copper is released, the positive and negative electrodes of a copper billet are periodically reversed, while the positive and negative electrodes of a titanium plate/graphite polar plate are in an uncharged state. When chlorine/bromine is released, the positive and negative electrodes of a titanium plate/graphite polar plate are periodically reversed, while the positive and negative electrodes of the copper billet are short-connected, then connected to the negative electrode of the titanium plate/graphite polar plate, or applied thereon with an electric voltage that is lower than the electric voltage of the negative electrode of the titanium plate/graphite polar plate. With this method, the copper billet out of operation is shorted-connected to the negative electrode of the titanium plate/graphite polar plate or connected to an electric voltage that is lower than that of the negative electrode.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2010Date of Patent: July 16, 2013Assignee: Intex Recreation Corp.Inventor: Hua Hsiang Lin
-
Patent number: 8470161Abstract: A self-contained system which promotes the multiplication of algae from either salt water or fresh water sources as a feedstock. This process inspires a direct output of lipids for bio-diesel fuel as well as a significant raw algae yield which can be further processed into additional bio-fuel as well as other valuable resources. In addition to inspiring a direct output of algal lipids for bio-diesel, the system generates massive raw algae biomass output that can be directly utilized as an agent for efficiently cleaning up oil spills.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2011Date of Patent: June 25, 2013Inventor: Stuart D. Cooper
-
Publication number: 20130134053Abstract: Electrodes for transferring a charge, the electrodes have a plurality of members for making electrical contact. The electrodes are suitable for treating aqueous, substantially aqueous and nonaqueous fluids including wastewater, solvents and gases. Water may be treated using the electrodes to provide higher dissolved oxygen or lower levels of contaminants after treatment. The electrodes may be useful in precipitation reactions such as electrowinning methods. The electrodes may also be capable of altering biological characteristics of organisms such as algae and bacteria.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 23, 2010Publication date: May 30, 2013Applicant: IOGENYX PTY LTDInventor: Andrew Peter Musson
-
Patent number: 8431008Abstract: Provided is an electrolytic disinfection system and method for purifying water. The electrolytic disinfection system includes; an electrolytic disinfection device which includes; a chamber, a first electrode disposed in the chamber, a second electrode disposed in the chamber and spaced apart from the first electrode, a water inlet part connected to the chamber, wherein the water inlet part allows influent water to be introduced to the chamber therethrough, and a water outlet part connected to the chamber, wherein the water outlet part allows the influent water to be discharged from the chamber therethrough, and an influent water heating device which is disposed upstream of the water inlet part and heats the influent water introduced to the chamber through the water inlet part.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 2010Date of Patent: April 30, 2013Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Jae-eun Kim, Joo-wook Lee, Chang-hyun Kim, Hyo-rang Kang, Mi-jeong Song, Jae-young Kim
-
Publication number: 20130087466Abstract: Various methods and systems are provided for electrochemical digestion of organic molecules. In one example, among others, a method includes providing an electrolyte fluid including organic molecules between the electrodes of a reaction vessel and applying a voltage wave shape to the electrodes of the reaction vessel to digest the organic molecules. No separator exists between the electrodes of the reaction vessel. In another example, a system for digesting organic molecules includes a reaction vessel, an electrolyte fluid including the organic molecules, and a power source. The reaction vessel includes a plurality of electrodes where no separator exists between the electrodes. The electrolyte fluid is provided between the plurality of electrodes of the reaction vessel and the power source can applies a voltage wave shape to the electrodes of the reaction vessel to digest the organic molecules.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 28, 2012Publication date: April 11, 2013Inventor: Robert Brian Dopp
-
Patent number: 8337690Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for reducing an oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) of an electrochemically activated liquid. The ORP is reduced by emitting ions from an ion generator into the electrochemically activated liquid, wherein the ions have a charge polarity that is opposite to the ORP of the liquid.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 2008Date of Patent: December 25, 2012Assignee: Tennant CompanyInventor: Bruce F. Field
-
Patent number: 8287702Abstract: The commercial unipolar activation of water to disinfect raw water supply from rivers or wells, seawater, or waste water from sewage, animal waste, processing plant waste, cooling tower water, swimming pool and spa water, ship ballast water and similar polluted waters. Disinfection is accomplished by hydrogen peroxide and ozone including biocides from chlorine and sulphur compounds in the water that are produced during the electrolytic unipolar activation of the water. Unipolar activation can also be used to perform chemical reactions such as in the activation of seawater. This invention can also produce alkaline water that is beneficial for health.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2008Date of Patent: October 16, 2012Inventor: Rodolfo Antonio M. Gomez
-
Publication number: 20120255871Abstract: A pH adjusting apparatus includes an electrolytic chip receiving a solution, an electrolytic chip loading station receiving the electrolytic chip, an input unit inputting electrolysis conditions, a control unit receiving the electrolysis conditions and controlling electrolysis performed in the electrolytic chip, and a display unit displaying the electrolysis conditions and a progress of the electrolysis. Thus, the pH of a solution can be adjusted easily and accurately, by precisely controlling a constant current, a constant voltage, and current and voltage application times, thereby enabling useful application in various biological assays such as cell lysis. Furthermore, the pH adjusting apparatus has small size and weight and can be operated for a long time after charging once due to low power consumption.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 13, 2012Publication date: October 11, 2012Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.Inventors: Hun-joo LEE, Jin-tae KIM, Sung-young JEONG, Joon-ho KIM, Hee-kyun LIM
-
Patent number: 8241484Abstract: [Problem] To provide a membrane treatment method and a membrane treatment apparatus for ballast water using a membrane module, which are capable of inhibiting the formation of scale on the membrane surface to reduce fouling, using a simple installation. [Means for Solving the Problem] The membrane treatment method and the membrane treatment apparatus for ballast water using a membrane module according to the invention, having a membrane treatment tank 2 and a membrane module 1 provided in the tank for continuously performing filtration while ballast water is being passed thereto as raw water; wherein a positive electrode and a negative electrode are provided in the membrane treatment tank 2 so as to come into contact with raw water in the tank, and a current passing means is provided in the tank for applying a voltage between the electrodes.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2007Date of Patent: August 14, 2012Assignee: Mitsui Engineering & Shipbuilding Co., Ltd.Inventors: Masahiro Saito, Gaku Taniguchi, Taishi Sato, Satoru Okada
-
Patent number: 8242026Abstract: Provided is a method for performing etching process or film forming process to a substrate W whereupon a prescribed pattern is formed with an opening. The method is provided with a step of mixing a liquid and a gas, at least one of which contains a component that contributes to the etching process or the film forming process, and generating charged nano-bubbles 85 having a diameter smaller than that of the opening formed on the semiconductor substrate W; a step of forming an electric field to attract the nano-bubbles onto the surface of the substrate W; and a step of performing the process by supplying the substrate with the liquid containing the nano-bubbles 85 while forming the electric field.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2007Date of Patent: August 14, 2012Assignee: Tokyo Electron LimitedInventor: Sumie Nagaseki
-
Patent number: 8226811Abstract: Disclosed is a system and method for generating time variant and invariant electric fields (E-fields) for various applications. Generating the E-field utilizes high impedance dielectric materials having a collection of three imperative material properties: high permittivity (?), high volume resistivity (?) and high maximum allowable E-field stress (?) and physical geometries that take advantage of the manner in which E-fields are divided or distributed in series capacitance networks. The generated E-field can act upon a subject material, including a gas, liquid or solid, wherein the material is stationary or in motion. The method allows an E-field of given intensity to be set up in the subject material with a significantly lower applied voltage ?a, or conversely, a significantly higher E-field intensity with a given applied voltage ?a.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2006Date of Patent: July 24, 2012Assignee: May-Ruben Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Wayne A. May, Peter Ruben
-
Patent number: 8216445Abstract: A nanoporous insulating oxide deionization device, method of manufacture and method of use thereof for deionizing a water supply (such as a hard water supply), for desalinating a salt water supply, and for treating a bacteria-containing water supply. The device contains two composite electrodes each constructed from a conductive backing electrode and a composite oxide layer being an insulating oxide or a non-insulating oxide and an intermediate porous layer. The composite layer being substantially free of mixed oxidation states and nanoporous and having a median pore diameter of 0.5-500 nanometers and average surface area of 300-600 m2/g. The composite layer made from a stable sol-gel suspension containing particles of the insulating oxide, the median primary particle diameter being 1-50 nanometers.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2007Date of Patent: July 10, 2012Assignee: Wisconsin Alumni Research FoundationInventors: Marc A. Anderson, Kevin C. Leonard
-
Patent number: 8211288Abstract: Feed water comprising an aqueous salt solution is supplied to an anode chamber and to a cathode chamber. The feed water is cathodically electrolyzed in the cathode chamber to produce alkaline electrolyzed water (catholyte) and is anodically electrolyzed in the anode chamber to produce electrolyzed water (anolyte) whose pH is modified. A portion of alkaline catholyte from the cathode chamber is recycled back to the feed water during continuous electrolysis to provide a blend of feed water and alkaline catholyte to the anode chamber to control pH of the anodically electrolyzed water therein to provide more stable bactericidal activity thereof over time.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 2004Date of Patent: July 3, 2012Assignee: University of Georgia Research Foundation, Inc.Inventors: Yen-Con Hung, Donghwan Chung
-
Publication number: 20120118759Abstract: The present invention discloses a system and a method to eliminate E. Coli bacteria from various food products. When DC current is applied to any pathogen that is gram negative, it overrides the internal governing electrostatic charge that controls and causes the hydrophilic nature of E. Coli to be activated and rushes in water instantaneously. This results in E. Coli blowing itself up. This is E. Coli's “Achilles heel”. Testing has shown when E. Coli is exposed to as little as 30 volts for approximately 30 seconds, 99.9% of ALL E. Coli were killed. 100% kill using 60 volts has been achieved through this invention.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 9, 2011Publication date: May 17, 2012Inventor: Lex Camany
-
Patent number: 8173006Abstract: An electrolyzed water production apparatus and method safely and simply produce electrolyzed water having a sterilizing action, having a physiologically neutral pH value, and, in addition, simultaneously with strong acidic electrolyzed water and strong alkaline electrolyzed water depending upon the structure. The electrolyzed water production apparatus has an electrolyzer tank with an end that receives or stores raw water, and a power supply. The interior portion of the electrolyzer tank is partitioned by a plurality of diaphragms into a plurality of regions. An anode and a cathode (constituting an electrode pair) are positioned on either side of the diaphragm. In a certain region of the electrolyzer tank, an anode and a cathode are arranged so as to face each other without a diaphragm sandwiched between them. When raw water for electrolysis is electrolyzed, electrolyzed water having a desired pH of a neutral range is produced during electrolysis.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2010Date of Patent: May 8, 2012Assignee: Osaka Electro-Communication UniversityInventors: Koichi Umimoto, Shunji Nagata