With Treating Fluid Addition Patents (Class 210/177)
  • Publication number: 20090266772
    Abstract: The invention relates to a system and method for the hydrothermal oxidation of water-insoluble organic residues. The plant comprises two independent liquid phase feed lines, namely an aqueous phase (1) and a non-water-soluble phase (9). The supercritical conditions in the entrance to the first reactor (10) enable a homogeneous phase to be obtained, in which there are no solubilization problems, thereby enabling the treatment of industrial residues that cannot be treated with standard systems. The inventive system comprises two reactor sections (14 and 18) such that it is possible to inject streams of hydrogen peroxide (11 and 15) in the connections between sections (13 and 17), in order to potentiate the oxidation reaction. The plant is equipped with a heat exchange system (5) in order to make use of the energy generated during the oxidation process, such that the plant operates in autothermal conditions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2005
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventors: Enrique Martínez de la Ossa Fernández, Enrique Nebot Sanz, Juan Ramon Portela Miguelez, Jezabel Sanchez Oneto
  • Patent number: 7604732
    Abstract: Systems, methods and apparatus are provided for utilizing a substantially condensed phase cryogenic fluid for the purpose of remediation and retrieval of, e.g., spilled crude oil and other “oil spill”-related products from marine/aquatic and terrestrial environments. In some implementations, systems and apparatus are provided for applying a substantially condensed phase cryogenic fluid to a volume of spilled oil, and further having structure for collecting the spilled oil. Some implementations are environmentally-neutral. Substances other than oil may be remediated as well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2009
    Inventor: Ronald de Strulle
  • Patent number: 7601257
    Abstract: Systems, methods and apparatus are provided for utilizing a substantially condensed phase cryogenic fluid for the purpose of remediation and retrieval of, e.g., spilled crude oil and other “oil spill”-related products from marine/aquatic and terrestrial environments. In some implementations, systems and apparatus are provided for applying a substantially condensed phase cryogenic fluid to a volume of spilled oil, and further having structure for collecting the spilled oil. Some implementations are environmentally-neutral. Substances other than oil may be remediated as well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2009
    Inventor: Ronald de Strulle
  • Patent number: 7597799
    Abstract: Systems, methods and apparatus are provided for utilizing a substantially condensed phase cryogenic fluid for the purpose of remediation and retrieval of, e.g., spilled crude oil and other “oil spill”-related products from marine/aquatic and terrestrial environments. In some implementations, systems and apparatus are provided for applying a substantially condensed phase cryogenic fluid to a volume of spilled oil, and further having structure for collecting the spilled oil. Some implementations are environmentally-neutral. Substances other than oil may be remediated as well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Inventor: Ronald de Strulle
  • Patent number: 7597800
    Abstract: Systems, methods and apparatus are provided for utilizing a substantially condensed phase cryogenic fluid for the purpose of remediation and retrieval of, e.g., spilled crude oil and other “oil spill”-related products from marine/aquatic and terrestrial environments. In some implementations, systems and apparatus are provided for applying a substantially condensed phase cryogenic fluid to a volume of spilled oil, and further having structure for collecting the spilled oil. Some implementations are environmentally-neutral. Substances other than oil may be remediated as well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Inventor: Ronald de Strulle
  • Publication number: 20090223887
    Abstract: A system and method for oxidizing a feed material includes a reactor vessel that forms an enclosed chamber. The vessel includes a port for introducing the feed material into the chamber where it can be oxidized to create salts and particulates, together with a fluid effluent. After their creation, the salts and particulates flow into a brine pool maintained within the chamber. Thereafter, brine, including salts and particulates, can be removed from the chamber through a vessel outlet. Further, the vessel includes a fluid effluent discharge pipe extending from outside the vessel, through the brine pool, into the chamber. As a result of this structure, the fluid effluent can be separated from the salts and particulates and discharged from the chamber through the pipe, passing through the brine pool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2006
    Publication date: September 10, 2009
    Inventors: David A. Hazlebeck, John L. Perlman
  • Patent number: 7585410
    Abstract: Systems, methods and apparatus are provided for utilizing a substantially condensed phase cryogenic fluid for the purpose of remediation and retrieval of, e.g., spilled crude oil and other “oil spill”-related products from marine/aquatic and terrestrial environments. In some implementations, systems and apparatus are provided for applying a substantially condensed phase cryogenic fluid to a volume of spilled oil, and further having structure for collecting the spilled oil. Some implementations are environmentally-neutral. Substances other than oil may be remediated as well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Inventor: Ronald de Strulle
  • Publication number: 20090211960
    Abstract: A fluid treatment tank for use in a well fluid processing system. The tank is divided into at least three compartments, including an oil treatment compartment for receiving oil from a separator vessel of the well fluid processing system so as to allow stabilization and/or final separation and treatment of the oil, a reject treatment compartment for receiving reject fluid from one or more water treatment units of the well fluid processing system so as to allow gravitational separation of heavier and lighter components of the reject fluid, and a water treatment compartment for receiving de-oiled water from one or more water treatment units of the well fluid processing system so as to allow degassing and/or final separation of the water. Also, a well fluid processing system including such a fluid treatment tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2007
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Applicant: Aibel AS
    Inventors: Pal Jahre Nilsen, Matteo Chiesa, Peder Hansson, Helge L. Andersen
  • Publication number: 20090159534
    Abstract: A coalescing apparatus including a casing having an inner chamber for accommodating insulating fluid. At least one tube of electrically insulating material extends through the casing and the chamber. Each tube forms a flow channel for emulsion to be treated. A set of electrodes is mounted in the chamber. The tube is allotted at least one pair of electrodes of the set. A voltage set is configured to apply mutually different electric potentials to the electrodes of each electrode pair so as to form an electric field between them and thereby an electric field inside the respective tube. A heater is configured to heat the insulating fluid so as to allow the insulating fluid to transfer heat to emulsion flowing through at least one tube and thereby raise the temperature of the emulsion. An emulsion treatment system comprising such includes a coalescing apparatus. A coalescing method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2008
    Publication date: June 25, 2009
    Applicant: Aibel AS
    Inventors: Erik Bjorklund, Pai J. Nilsen
  • Publication number: 20090151355
    Abstract: A filtering apparatus having a vessel and a filter made from fluororesin and treated before filtering operation by at least one of adding thermal treatment in gas or liquid and penetrating with fluid composed of hot water or steam at a temperature of less than melting point of the fluororesin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2008
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Inventors: Makoto FUJIE, Hideki Nakamura, Kazuya Yamada, Shuji Seki, Manabu Sakurai, Tadashi Fukushima, Kenichiro Ide, Tetsuya Noda, Masaru Komatsubara
  • Publication number: 20090134101
    Abstract: A filter comprising a filter element with a filtering medium, mounted in a housing having a first end and a second end, and a passageway A removable generator to provide heated fluid for regenerating the filter element is to be connected to the housing adjacent the second end The second end of the filter element is constructed so as to permit a first portion of the heated fluid to flow toward the first end of the filter element, and the passageway is to allow a second portion of the heated fluid to flow from the second end to the first end, bypassing the filtering medium A flow director is positioned adjacent to the first end of the filter element for directing the second portion of the heated fluid discharged from the passageway toward the first end of the filter element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2008
    Publication date: May 28, 2009
    Inventor: Dae Sung Lee
  • Patent number: 7531144
    Abstract: This invention relates to a method for desalination of seawater (5, 30) and separation of CO2 from exhaust (77) from a gas turbine (7). LNG (4) is fed into a heat exchanger (6) in which it receives heat from seawater (5) and heat from steam (27) from an exhaust boiler, and heat from combustion air (3) via a line to an air inlet (33) of said gas turbine (7), for evaporating LNG (4) to gas which is fed to a gas export module (10) and to a fuel gas skid (8) for supplying said gas turbine (7) with fuel. Thus said combustion air (3, 28) at the air inlet to said gas turbine (7) obtains a lowered temperature and increases an efficiency of said gas turbine (7). Said CO2-rich exhaust gas (77) from said gas turbine (7) is fed into a process unit (17) having an inlet (35a) with a fan (35b) and an outlet for CO2-reduced exhaust (13). Said cooled seawater from said heat exchanger (6) is fed into said process unit (17) via a coaxial feed pipe (67) for seawater and NH4OH arranged in said process unit (17).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Assignee: Sargas AS
    Inventor: Knut Erik Borseth
  • Publication number: 20090107913
    Abstract: Provided herein are methods and system for the production of biogas, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency classified Class A Biosolids, and pathogen reduced organic liquid fertilizer. Through the digestion of waste materials using sequential phases in an efficient digestion process, enhanced biomass conversion efficiency and improved output of products (in quantity and/or quality) are obtained with a significant reduction in dwell time in each phase.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2008
    Publication date: April 30, 2009
    Inventor: Detlev K. Johnson
  • Publication number: 20090101593
    Abstract: A method for providing biological control to a flow of water in a recirculating potable hot water system. In such a system, water is subjected to an initial chemical treatment using an oxidizing biocide such as chlorine dioxide or peracetic acid that rapidly kills biofilm and Legionella bacteria. This treatment is continued until existing Legionella bacteria and biofilm are controlled. Once the bacteria and biofilm are controlled the chemical treatment is stopped. Starting concurrently with the chemical treatment or at the termination of the chemical treatment, non-chemical water treatment is provided. The non-chemical water treatment maintains the water system in a condition which is free of Legionella bacteria and biofilm. Chemical water treatment may be repeated intermittently should it prove desirable or necessary.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2008
    Publication date: April 23, 2009
    Inventors: John Dresty, David Alley
  • Publication number: 20090065442
    Abstract: A system and process for removing contaminants from wastewater where the wastewater is treated into a cleaned water that can be reused or discharged into the environment. The wastewater is transported through purification sections, depending on the system including several of the following: pre-treatment via screening and weirs to remove debris and certain heavy solids; a second pretreatment via a sump; strainer; conductivity solution injection system and electrolytic coagulation system; polymer injection system; inline mixers for mixing the polymer in the wastewater stream; retention tubes for providing residence time for the polymer to react in the wastewater stream; a multi-stage separation system comprised of a plurality of water separation compartments for consecutively separating contaminants from the wastewater stream by removing contaminants that float and heavy contaminants that settle to the bottom; and an ozone treatment system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2008
    Publication date: March 12, 2009
    Applicant: C-Tech Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Shannon L. Taylor, Richard W. Frederick, Bernie L. Larson, Paul W. Linton
  • Patent number: 7485222
    Abstract: Desalination apparatus based on porous restraint panels fabricated from a number of different layers of metal, thermoplastic, or other substances are used as sophisticated heat exchangers to control the growth of gas hydrate. The gas hydrate is produced after infusion of liquid hydrate-forming material into water to be treated, which liquid hydrate-forming material can also be used to carry out all the refrigeration necessary to cool seawater to near the point of hydrate formation and to cool the porous restraint panels. Hydrate forms on and dissociates through the porous restraints. The composite restraint panels can also be used in gaseous atmospheres where, for instance, it is desired to remove dissolved water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2009
    Assignee: Marine Desalination Systems, LLC
    Inventor: Michael David Max
  • Publication number: 20090008331
    Abstract: The present invention generally relates to hemodialysis and similar dialysis systems, including a variety of systems and methods that would make hemodialysis more efficient, easier, and/or more affordable. One aspect of the invention is generally directed to new fluid circuits for fluid flow. In one set of embodiments, a hemodialysis system may include a blood flow path and a dialysate flow path, where the dialysate flow path includes one or more of a balancing circuit, a mixing circuit, and/or a directing circuit. Preparation of dialysate by the preparation circuit, in some instances, may be decoupled from patient dialysis. In some cases, the circuits are defined, at least partially, within one or more cassettes, optionally interconnected with conduits, pumps, or the like. In one embodiment, the fluid circuit and/or the various fluid flow paths may be at least partially isolated, spatially and/or thermally, from electrical components of the hemodialysis system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2008
    Publication date: January 8, 2009
    Applicant: DEKA Products Limited Partnership
    Inventors: Michael J. Wilt, Jason A. Demers, Kevin L. Grant, Brian Tracey, James D. Dale
  • Publication number: 20080264872
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method and an apparatus for treating a chlorine-containing waste, which can separate and recover a chlorine component from a chlorine-containing waste, and also can achieve a high chlorine removal thereby obtaining a high purity chlorine compound, and can decrease the amount of water for recovering chlorine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2006
    Publication date: October 30, 2008
    Applicants: SUMITOMO OSAKA CEMENT CO., LTD, JAPAN WATER SYSTEMS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Masayoshi Konishi, Hideho Hayashi, Ikuko Watanabe, Takehiko Itoh, Takayuki Kuroiwa, Taichiro Fujimaki
  • Publication number: 20080242912
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for the purification and distribution of acetylene. Acetylene is removed from an acetylene storage device, and provided to a purifier where solvent is removed. The purified acetylene is then provided to a semiconductor processing tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2007
    Publication date: October 2, 2008
    Inventors: Olivier Letessier, Richard J. Udischas, James J.F. McAndrew, Regis Zils, Fabrice Delcorso, Rajat Agrawal
  • Patent number: 7390413
    Abstract: a water softening system includes a water softening resin tank, an anion resin tank in flow communication with the water softening resin tank, an in-line water heater in flow communication with the water softening resin tank and a heat exchanger in flow communication with the in-line heater. A water heater is in flow communication with the heat exchanger and the in-line heater. A plurality of flow control valves are operatively connected to the water heater heat exchanger, in-line water heater, anion resin tank, and water softening resin tank. The flow control valves are configured to control the flow of water through the water softening system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Martin M. Zentner, Scott Tarr, Jessica Schroeder, James Cosgrove
  • Patent number: 7326337
    Abstract: A method for starting up a system for oxidating organic bodies. The system includes a tubular body wherein an aqueous body is injected into the inlet thereof at a pressure P1, the tubular body having a first zone extending the inlet thereof, a second zone into which an oxidating compound can be injected into the output thereof. The inventive method includes the following steps: a first amount of thermal energy Q1 is provided in the first zone, the amount of thermal energy being able to raise the temperature of the liquid flowing through the tubular body from an initial temperature to a higher temperature T1; and a determined amount of a combustible mixture which can react at the intermediate temperature T1 in order to provide an amount of thermal energy Q2 bringing the temperature of the liquid to a reaction temperature T2 is injected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2008
    Assignee: Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (C.N.R.S.)
    Inventors: Francois Cansell, Manuel Bottreau
  • Publication number: 20080000846
    Abstract: An oil spill recovery system includes a first separator tank and a second separator tank. The first separator tank has a first volume and the second separator tank has a second volume that is different from the first volume. Each of the first separator tank and the second separator tank include an intake pipe having a plurality of branch outlets that receive an oil-water mixture and facilitate separation of the water from the oil.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2007
    Publication date: January 3, 2008
    Inventors: Jake Teichroeb, Juan S. Wiebe
  • Publication number: 20070284316
    Abstract: A cooling water reforming method of the invention includes making ozone micro/nanobubbles contained in cooling water in a cooling tower. A cooling apparatus of the invention includes an ozone micro/nanobubble generation section for generating ozone micro/nanobubbles in cooling water in a cooling tower so as to make ozone micro/nanobubbles contained in the cooling water. The ozone micro/nanobubble generation section includes an ozone generator for generating ozone, and a micro/nanobubble generator for generating ozone micro/nanobubbles in the cooling water by using the ozone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2007
    Publication date: December 13, 2007
    Applicant: SHARP KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Kazuyuki Yamasaki, Masaki Kataoka, Kazumi Chuhjoh, Shiroh Imazu
  • Patent number: 7226534
    Abstract: The present invention discloses an electric jar pot with ozone disinfection function. The device includes a jar pot with an ozone generator and an ozone conveying device. By the power source connected with the device, the ozone generator produce the ozone gas while the device boils water. Through the ozone conveying device, the ozone gas is delivered to the bottom of the jar pot and is released, dissolved in water to form ozone water. Thus the germs inside the water are eliminated, the water is sterilized and purified.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2007
    Inventors: Yu-Yueh Lin, Kun-Jung Yang, Hai-Yau Ho
  • Patent number: 7211194
    Abstract: A gravity pressure vessel (GPV) for processing a fluid stream containing organic materials provides several improvements to the art. In one embodiment, a GPV of the present invention sustains the heat energy requirements of a hydrolysis GPV by including therein, a first reaction chamber for conducting an exothermic reaction, and subsequently providing a second reaction chamber for hydrolysis of certain organic materials refractory to the exothermic reaction. Another embodiment provides for the perpetual cleaning of the heat transfer surfaces of the GPV. Still another embodiment provides for selective alteration of a hydrolysis reaction within a GPV independent of the flow of the fluid stream through the GPV.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2007
    Assignee: Eau-Viron, Inc.
    Inventor: James A. Titmas
  • Patent number: 7182859
    Abstract: An apparatus for treating organic waste. The apparatus includes a tank having an interior chamber. A weir having a lower opening is disposed in the tank and this weir divides the tank into an inlet chamber and an outlet chamber. The inlet chamber receives organic waste and an outlet discharges liquid to a waste disposal system from the outlet chamber. Microbes capable of biodegrading organic waste are introduced into the inlet chamber. A pump recirculates liquid from the bottom of the inlet chamber to the top of the inlet chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Assignee: PMC Environmental Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Jeffery L. Ostahowski, Ronald L. Panter
  • Patent number: 7094341
    Abstract: Processes and apparatus are disclosed for separating and purifying aqueous solutions such as seawater by causing a substantially impermeable mat of gas hydrate to form on a porous restraint. Once the mat of gas hydrate has formed on the porous restraint, the portion of the mat of gas hydrate adjacent to the restraint is caused to dissociate and flow through the restraint, e.g., by lowering the pressure in a collection region on the opposite side of the restraint. The purified or desalinated water may then be recovered from the collection region. The process may be used for marine desalination as well as for drying wet gas and hydrocarbon solutions. If conditions in the solution are not conductive to forming hydrate, a heated or refrigerated porous restraint may be used to create hydrate-forming conditions near the restraint, thereby causing gas hydrates to form directly on the surface of the restraint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2006
    Assignee: Marine Desalination Systems, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Michael David Max
  • Patent number: 7029578
    Abstract: A system suitable for the elimination of Cryptosporidium oocysts from water includes a filter bed comprising four layers of inert particulate material such that, from the top layer (first layer) to the bottom layer (fourth layer), the coarseness of the particles decreases while the density of the particulate material increases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Assignee: Spruce International Separations
    Inventor: Frederick Spruce
  • Patent number: 7001511
    Abstract: In the field of biomass extraction, there is a need for effective removal of solvent from spent biomass material. An apparatus for removing solvent residues includes a vessel (11) for containing biomass; a steam source (19) for supplying steam to contact the biomass; and a separator (24) for separating solvent from steam that has contacted the biomass. The disclosure also includes a method of use of the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Assignee: Ineous Fluor Holdings Limited
    Inventors: Stuart Corr, Paul A. Dowdle, Robert E. Low, James David Morrison, Frederick Thomas Murphy
  • Patent number: 6960293
    Abstract: A system and method for pre-treating grease and other similar wastes prior to introducing them into a waste water treatment facility so that the grease, etc., does not clog the waste water treatment facility equipment. The system includes a tank for receipt of the grease that has an inlet pipe equipped with water jets and emulsifying blades that emulsify and dilute the grease in hot water as it enters the tank. The dilute waste then can be drawn through a drain pipe by opening a valve to allow it to enter the waste water processing equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2005
    Inventor: Richard G. Middleton
  • Patent number: 6890444
    Abstract: Water to be desalinated or otherwise purified is enriched by having hydrate-forming substance dissolved into it, without causing hydrate to form. Hydrate kernels are brought into contact with the enriched water to be treated, and the hydrate kernels grow outwardly into the water to be treated by incorporating dissolved molecules of the hydrate-forming substance and water from the water to be treated. Thus, substantially solid, generally spherical hydrate masses, which are preferred for hydrate-based desalination or purification, can be formed. Hydrate-forming substances can be dissolved into the water to be treated under conditions not conducive to formation of hydrate, such that hydrate does not form, using vigorous means. Hydrate-forming substance is also preferably dissolved into the water to be treated under conditions suitable for hydrate to form, but without causing hydrate to form, e.g., by being infused into the water to be treated using infusion membranes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Assignee: Marine Desalination Systems, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Michael D. Max
  • Patent number: 6866750
    Abstract: The present invention provides a device and method for desalinating saltwater which utilizes a heatable vessel wherein is placed a sufficient quantity of a salt which will absorb water of crystallisation and which has a dissolution index of not higher than 10?24. Saltwater is then added to the vessel and brought into contact with the salt, so that the salt will bind water from the saltwater and form a crystal hydrate. The excess saltwater with salt concentrate is drained from the vessel. The salt which has absorbed water tom the saltwater and formed a crystal hydrate is then heated in the vessel, and the pure water from the crystal hydrate is released as water vapour, which is collected and cooled to obtain desalinated water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2005
    Assignee: Gougel Industri AB
    Inventors: Michail Gougel, Mark Novikov
  • Patent number: 6830682
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for desalination of salt water (and purification of polluted water) are disclosed. Saline (or otherwise polluted) water is pumped to a desalination installation and down to the base of a desalination fractionation column, where it is mixed with hydrate-forming gas or liquid to form either positively buoyant (also assisted buoyancy) or negatively buoyant hydrate. The hydrate rises or sinks or is carried into a lower pressure area and dissociates (melts) into the gas and pure water. In preferred embodiments, residual salt water which is heated by heat given off during formation of the hydrate is removed from the system to create a bias towards overall cooling as the hydrate dissociates endothermically at shallower depths, and input water is passed through regions of dissociation in heat-exchanging relationship therewith so as to be cooled sufficiently for hydrate to form at pressure-depth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: Marine Desalination Systems, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Michael D Max
  • Patent number: 6802965
    Abstract: The present invention provides a process for the removal of hydrogen peroxide from spent pickle liquor used in a steel strip pickling process. The process utilizes an enclosed decomposition tank which includes a pickle liquor inlet pipe, an outlet pipe, at least one vent pipe, an internal baffle, and a heat source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2004
    Assignee: AK Steel Corporation
    Inventors: Vijay N. Madi, Jerald W. Leeker
  • Publication number: 20040195160
    Abstract: Toxic waste waters polluted with high levels of chemical byproducts of various industrial processes (e.g., waste water held in industrial holding ponds) are treated using gas hydrate to extract and remove fresh water from the polluted water, thus reducing the volume of toxic waste water inventories. Extracting fresh water by forming and removing the hydrate raises the concentration of dissolved materials in the residual concentrated brines to levels at which the residual fluid is suitable for use as an industrial feedstock. Furthermore, so raising the concentration of the residual brine will cause certain mineral species to precipitate out of solution, which mineral species are separated from the fluid and may be put to other uses, as appropriate. Food products are also advantageously concentrated by means of gas hydrates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Applicant: Marine Desalination Systems, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Michael D. Max, John P. Osegovic
  • Patent number: 6800196
    Abstract: Radioactive laundry liquid wastes are supplied in a liquid waste heating vessel. Hydrogen peroxide and an alkali solution are supplied to the liquid waste heating vessel. The pH of the radioactive laundry liquid wastes is adjusted to 7 or higher by the alkali solution. The radioactive laundry liquid wastes are heated to 50° C. or higher by a heating device and introduced to first and second aeration vessels. The temperature is controlled by a device in accordance with the value measured by a thermometer. Ozone is supplied from an ozone generator by way of an ozone gas discharge port to the first aeration vessel. Ozone discharged from the first aeration vessel is introduced from the ozone gas discharge port to the second aeration vessel. Therefore, the amount of ozone dissolved into the radioactive laundry liquid wastes is increased so that the amount of hydroxy radicals formed for decomposing organic substances increases, since the laundry liquid wastes are heated to 50° C.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2004
    Inventors: Toshiaki Matsuo, Takashi Nishi, Takayuki Matsumoto, Masami Matsuda, Atsushi Yukita
  • Publication number: 20040168960
    Abstract: According to one embodiment of the invention, a system for processing biomass includes a water-impermeable bottom liner, a gravel layer supported by the bottom liner, a drain pipe disposed within the gravel layer, a biomass input device operable to deliver biomass over the gravel layer to form a biomass pile, a lime input device operable to deliver lime to the biomass for pretreating the biomass, a distribution pipe elevated above the gravel layer, and a pump operable to circulate water through the biomass pile by delivering water to the distribution pipe and receiving water from the drain pipe after it has traveled through the biomass pile.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Applicant: The Texas A&M University System
    Inventors: Mark Thomas Holtzapple, Richard Read Davison, Lee Leon Lowery, Cesar Benigno Granda
  • Patent number: 6783668
    Abstract: A system for pressurized liquid extraction and purification of solid samples includes a pressurized liquid extraction (PLE) module including a PLE cell, a heating element, a high-pressure source of an extraction solvent, a pressure regulator, and a cooling coil. The PLE module continuously performs high-pressure, high-temperature extraction on the solid sample to yield liquid sample. The liquid sample is concurrently provided to a purification module including one or more columns. The purification module yields a purified liquid sub-sample containing substantially all of a specific trace substance present in the solid sample. The sub-samples are transferred to a concentrator assembly through a collector inlet. The concentrated sub-sample can be used in subsequent analysis to determine the concentration of the trace substance in the original solid sample.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2004
    Assignee: Fluid Management Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Hamid Shirkhan
  • Patent number: 6767471
    Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed which allows the hydrate formed in the hydrate formation region of a desalination fractionation apparatus to be cooled as it rises in the apparatus. This has the beneficial effect of increasing its stability at lower pressures and reducing the depth at which the hydrate will begin to dissociate. The present invention provides for more efficient management of the distribution of thermal energy within the apparatus as a whole by controlling the flow of water through the system—particularly residual fluids remaining after hydrate forms—such that it is substantially downward through the fractionation column and out through a lower portion thereof. Hydrate thus separates from the residual fluid at or nearly at the point of formation, which helps keep the hydrate formation region of the apparatus at a temperature suitable for the formation of hydrate and improves efficiency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2004
    Assignee: Marine Desalination Systems, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Michael D. Max
  • Patent number: 6767464
    Abstract: Systems for treating water containing unwanted contaminants. More particularly, the present invention relates to waste water treatment systems including biological media used to aerobically or anaerobically treat solid and liquid waste in water for large and small-scale waste water systems in a way that minimizes the size of the system required to output high-quality, environmentally suitable water that is depleted of ammonia, nitrites, nitrates and other contaminants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2004
    Assignee: Environmental Operating Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven H. Boyd, Abdul R. M. Azad
  • Publication number: 20040124156
    Abstract: A system and method for processing waste material. A system according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises a grid system for separating waste material into a solid component, and a liquid and tissue component, and a centrifuge for separating the liquid and tissue component into a liquid component and a tissue component. The system further includes a mixer for mixing the solid component and the tissue component to form a solid and tissue mixture, and a hydrolizer for combining the solid and tissue mixture and superheated steam to form a cellulose material. The system further includes an extruder for extruding the cellulose material to form a construction material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2003
    Publication date: July 1, 2004
    Inventor: James G. Davidson
  • Patent number: 6733667
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for desalination of salt water (and purification of polluted water) are disclosed. Saline (or otherwise polluted) water is pumped to a desalination installation and down to the base of a desalination fractionation column, where it is mixed with hydrate-forming gas or liquid to form either positively buoyant (also assisted buoyancy) or negatively buoyant hydrate. The hydrate rises or sinks or is carried into a lower pressure area and dissociates (melts) into the gas and pure water. In preferred embodiments, residual salt water which is heated by heat given off during formation of the hydrate is removed from the system to create a bias towards overall cooling as the hydrate dissociates endothermically at shallower depths, and input water is passed through regions of dissociation in heat-exchanging relationship therewith so as to be cooled sufficiently for hydrate to form at pressure-depth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2004
    Assignee: Marine Desalination Systems L.L.C.
    Inventor: Michael David Max
  • Patent number: 6656436
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a system for the conversion of chemical structures where the system contains a reservoir reactor having a first lower zone where high solubility of at least one salt in a solvent is maintained under first conditions of pressure and temperature, a second upper zone for precipitating at least one salt under second conditions of pressure and temperature, means for maintaining the first and second conditions of temperature and pressure, means for generating ultrasound, and means for forming a solvent in the lower part of the reservoir reactor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Assignees: L'Electrolyse
    Inventors: Dominique Sentagnes, Cyril Aymonier, Bernard Berdeu, François Cansell
  • Patent number: 6562234
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for desalination of salt water (and purification of polluted water) are disclosed. Salt (or otherwise polluted) water is pumped to a desalination installation and down to the base of a desalination fractionation column, where it is mixed with hydrate-forming gas to form either positively buoyant or negatively buoyant (assisted buoyancy) hydrate. The hydrate rises or is carried upward and dissociates (melts) into the gas and pure water. In preferred embodiments, residual salt water which is heated by heat given off during formation of the hydrate is removed from the system to create a bias towards overall cooling as the hydrate dissociates endothermically at shallower depths. In preferred embodiments, the input water is passed through regions of dissociation in heat-exchanging relationship therewith so as to be cooled sufficiently for hydrate to form at pressure-depth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2003
    Assignee: Marine Desalination Systems L.L.C.
    Inventor: Michael D. Max
  • Patent number: 6555055
    Abstract: A system having a fluid source and a pasteurizer coupled with a disinfectant unit in flow communication with the fluid source for use in disinfecting dental or other water lines. The combination of pasteurizer and disinfectant unit is adapted to receive water from the fluid source. A fluid delivery unit is provided in flow communication with the pasteurizer and disinfectant unit combination. The disinfectant unit has a means for supplying hydrogen and oxygen and a means for generating hydrogen peroxide in flow communication with the means for supplying hydrogen and oxygen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Assignee: Lynntech, Inc.
    Inventors: Alan J. Cisar, Adrain Denvir, G. Duncan Hitchens, Thomas D. Rogers
  • Patent number: 6511601
    Abstract: A method and system for extraction of chemicals from an groundwater remediation aqueous effluent are provided. The extraction method utilizes a critical fluid for separation and recovery of chemicals employed in remediating groundwater contaminated with hazardous organic substances, and is particularly suited for separation and recovery of organic contaminants and process chemicals used in surfactant-based remediation technologies. The extraction method separates and recovers high-value chemicals from the remediation effluent and minimizes the volume of generated hazardous waste. The recovered chemicals can be recycled to the remediation process or stored for later use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2003
    Assignee: Bechtel BWXT Idaho, LLC
    Inventors: Ryan D. McMurtrey, Daniel M. Ginosar, Kenneth S. Moor, G. Michael Shook, Donna L. Barker
  • Patent number: 6471874
    Abstract: An effluent treating method, comprising the steps of: vaporizing effluent containing chlorine-based organic matter and producing vaporized gas containing chlorine-based organic gas; reacting said vaporized gas with photocatalytic material, with irradiating ultraviolet light, and decomposing the vaporized gas; and absorbing, adsorbing, or neutralizing the reacting step. The treatment is therefore efficiently conducted and discharge of secondary products such as chlorine-based gas can be suppressed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2002
    Assignee: Yamaha Corporation
    Inventors: Jun Yamamoto, Akira Osawa, Kunimasa Muroi, Yoichi Nagasaki
  • Patent number: 6464861
    Abstract: An arrangement for treating flora and fauna waste such as garbage under subcritical pressure and temperature. A slurry preparation unit (10) mixes the flora and fauna waste (11) with water (12) and sodium hydroxide (13) to prepare a slurry. A diaphragm pump (16) then pressurizes the slurry to subcritical pressure of water (20 Mpa). Subsequently, a hydrothermal reaction tube (25) heats the pressurized slurry to cause hydrothermal reaction in a subcritical condition thereby obtaining dissolved waste. The dissolved waste is depressurized and fed to an oxidization unit (22) for oxidation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Assignee: Ishikawajima-Harima Heavy Industries Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Makoto Kobayashi, Fumihiko Tamamushi, Sugihiro Konishi, Kouji Takewaki
  • Publication number: 20020102182
    Abstract: A self-cleaning system for delivering sanitized water to a workstation has a boiler which produces heat-sanitized water and steam. A diverter valve permits a fluid delivery line of the system to convey either sanitized water or steam to a workstation. The steam serves to sanitize the delivery line and workstation and removes biofilms therefrom.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2002
    Publication date: August 1, 2002
    Inventors: James N. Suddath, Wilhelm A. Piskorowski, Jerome J. Kasbrick
  • Patent number: 6409929
    Abstract: Apparatus and a method are presented for the mechanical removal of moisture from a filter cake. Differential pressure causes the flow of a treatment fluid through the filter cake. The treatment fluid displaces liquid originally present in the filter cake to prevent cracking of the filter cake.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2002
    Assignee: BOKELA Ingenieurgesellschaft fur Mechanische Verfahrenstechnik mbH
    Inventors: Reinhard Bott, Robert Kern, Thomas Langeloh