Abstract: A water treatment apparatus including a mixing bath having an open portion where a carbonic acid gas intermixed with water to be treated by the water treatment apparatus and dissolved oxygen excluded from the water to be treated are discharged. The water treatment apparatus also includes water storage tank separate from the mixing bath and in which treated water from the mixing bath is stored.

Abstract: The invention relates to a carbonating device for charging a liquid with a pressurized gas. Carbonating devices of this type are generally used for adding carbon dioxide or CO2 to tap water or so-called still water. According to the invention, the pivotal filling device can be locked into a so-called pivotal position in a manner that makes the inventive carbonating device easier to handle than commercially available carbonating devices. The invention provides that the pivotal filling device can be firstly brought into the pivotal position and locked in place by using one hand. Afterwards, the water bottle can be clamped or screwed onto the filling device by using both hands. Together with the water bottle, the filling device is then released from its locked position and placed into the so-called filling position.

Abstract: The invention is a method and apparatus for generating vortex rings in a fluid medium. The apparatus is immersed in a body of water, and an air pump feeds gas in the form of air directly into the base of the apparatus through a gas inlet or the gas is provided from a container with a finite quantity of gas. A nozzle extends from the gas inlet to a pocket located on an underside of a lever. As air is pumped into the pocket, the air forms a single bubble, and when the force of the air mass exceeds the weight of the lever, the lever rises and the air mass travels as a cohesive unit to an exit nozzle. When the lever reaches the maximum height displacement defined by a resilient upper stop, the air exits the lever through a nozzle and forms a vortex ring.

Abstract: Retrofit apparatus for retrofitting an ozone generator to a spa, hot tub or similar facility is disclosed. Here, a fitting is threaded into an air inlet of a spa or hot tub, and covers provided for the water outlets to generally prevent outgassing. In another embodiment, an ozone-providing plug is provided to one water outlet of a spa or hot tub, with the air and other outlets being blocked. In addition, different configurations of ozone generator are disclosed. Particularly, one type ozone generator includes an inverted U-shaped apparatus so that heat from the ozone generator induces a chimney effect so as to cause the ozonated air to rise through a chimney and then settle into a selected area. Another ozone generator creates a low rate of airflow by “ion wind” in order to propel ozonated air into a system of piping in the absence of water flowing therethrough.

Abstract: An apparatus and method is described that allows for the production of gas-filled vortex rings in a host liquid. The device consists of a source of gas under pressure that is used to supply an accumulator by means of a regulation valve. The accumulator has an outlet that feeds the gas in the accumulator to an electrically operated solenoid valve that is normally closed. The outlet of this valve leads to a nozzle that protrudes into a vessel containing the liquid in which it is desired to form the rings. Upon receiving an electrical pulse of known duration, the solenoid valve opens for that duration and allows a momentary pulse of gas to flow from the accumulator into the nozzle. If the pulse duration is correctly set, a vortex bubble forms at the exit of the nozzle which self-organizes into a defined ring once the gas flow ceases.

Abstract: A method for supplying a source gas to a processing chamber for forming a film on a substrate in the processing chamber includes: heating a carrier gas; bubbling the heated carrier gas in a liquid source disposed in a container to form a vapor source; and supplying a source gas including the vapor source and the heated carrier gas into the processing chamber for forming the film.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the bulk delivery of a precursor, such as an organometallic compound, from a bulk container, such as a bubbler (1) to a plurality of reactor sites (12, 14, 16, 18, 20) wherein a carrier gas (2) is introduced into the container (1) of the precursor to pick up the precursor to form a gaseous mixture. The gaseous mixture is then selectively distributed to one or more of a plurality of reactor sites (12, 14, 16, 18, 20). The gaseous mixture may be stored in a reservoir (9) and be drawn by means of a pressure differential or under vacuum to each of the reactor sites, when required.

Abstract: An object of the present invention is to efficiently remove foam produced in water by the aeration. Further, another object of the present invention is to improve water and air. Said objects can be attained by providing a foam removing apparatus consisting of a core having a spiral groove on its surface and a cylinder in which said core is inserted, and an air-water treating apparatus consisting of an outer cylinder, an inner cylinder inserted in said outer cylinder, a block having gas permeability inserted in said inner cylinder, and a core inserted in said inner cylinder and disposed above said permeable block, to which block an air introducing pipe connecting from the outside, and on the surface of said core a spiral groove being formed.

Abstract: A collapsible sparger for insertion into a vessel through a flanged opening is disclosed having a central tubular conduit having a plurality of rotatable members along its length. The rotatable members may be rotated and secured into position after insertion.

Abstract: A method for increasing the quantity of a gas, e.g., ozone, dissolved in a liquid, e.g., ultrapure deionized water, is provided. The gas to be dissolved is introduced to the liquid under pressure and the resulting admixture delivered to the end-use station under pressure. Thus, the method and system of the present invention are able to provide, e.g., ozonated water, continuously, efficiently and without cooling, thus providing a simple, cost efficient method of producing high concentration ozonated water for application to an in-process semiconductor wafer.

Abstract: The Quick Connect Diffuser Assembly of the present invention includes a special saddle in fluid communication with an air distribution header pipe and a diffuser body connected to the special saddle. The saddle is connected to the air distribution header pipe with a two interlocking sections joined on one side with a hinge, and on the other with flanges. The flanges are connected with a wedge piece. The diffuser connects to the upper saddle section with a bayonet type Quick connection. Gas is forced from the air distribution header pipe through an orifice hole in the pipe, then through the saddle and exits the diffuser body through a diffusion membrane. The membrane forms the gas into fine bubbles that aerate liquid contained in a basin. A single saddle assembly is adaptable to mount on either US or Metric pipe, which have different outside diameters, by changing gaskets and an O-ring.

Abstract: The present invention recognizes that the build-up of residue in a metal alloy injection valve used to inject a liquid phosphorous precursor compound is due to the nickel in the alloy affecting the liquid phosphorous precursor compound. The invention thus provides components manufactured of an alloy having a low nickel content, preferably less than 5% nickel, and more preferably less than 1%. In an additional aspect of the invention, the alloy is provided with a higher chromium content, preferably at least 15% chromium, more preferably 16-27%.

Abstract: A microporous diffuser includes a first elongated member including at least one sidewall having a plurality of microscopic openings. The sidewall defines an interior hollow portion of the member. The diffuser has a second elongated member having a second sidewall having a plurality of microscopic openings, the second member being disposed through the hollow region of the first member. The diffuser includes an end cap to seal a first end of the microporous diffuser and an inlet cap disposed at a second end of microporous diffuser for receiving inlet fittings.

Abstract: A container for a sparkling beverage which includes, on its inside bottom portion or surface, a bubble generator having a bubble generating portion for generating bubbles in such a manner that an aggregation of bubbles forms substantially the same shape as a mark on the surface of a beverage.

Abstract: A diffuser for use in a pressurized feed system. The diffuser introduces a carbonic acid solution into water to be treated. The carbonic acid solution within the diffuser is maintained at an elevated pressure. As the carbonic acid solution passes to the exterior of the diffuser, the pressure drop causes an effective mixing of the carbonic acid solution and the water. The carbonic acid solution mixes with the water and the pH of the water is reduced.

Abstract: A portable air conditioner which has a container for holding an air cooling medium, a lid for the container and a plurality of outlets in the lid which permit flexible conduits to connected to the output from the lid. In addition, a cart is disclosed for transporting the air conditioner which will keep the top and bottom of the container parallel in order to keep any liquid from melting ice from spilling.

Abstract: The invention is a method and apparatus for generating vortex rings in a fluid medium. The apparatus is immersed in a body of water, and an air pump feeds gas in the form of air directly into the base of the apparatus through a gas inlet or the gas is provided from a container with a finite quantity of gas. A nozzle extends from the gas inlet to a pocket located on an underside of a lever. As air is pumped into the pocket, the air forms a single bubble, and when the force of the air mass exceeds the weight of the lever, the lever rises and the air mass travels as a cohesive unit to an exit nozzle. When the lever reaches the maximum height displacement defined by a resilient upper stop, the air exits the lever through a nozzle and forms a vortex ring.

Abstract: A mass transfer machine removes dissolved gases or volatile organic compounds from air or a liquid. The mass transfer machine includes a vessel capable of containing a liquid and having a liquid inlet and an air inlet at a near end. It further includes a liquid outlet at a far end. Two or more baffles are located transversely inside of the vessel. The baffle located nearest to the far end of the vessel has a window. Two or more diffusers are located near a bottom surface of the vessel. The diffusers are in communication with the air inlet and have two or more orifices through a wall. An adjustable plate is releasably mounted over the window of the baffle located closest to the far end of the vessel. The plate is adjustable in a vertical direction. In one embodiment, an air source supplies air to the air inlet located on the near end of the vessel. In another embodiment, an air source is connected to the an air exit located on the far side of the vessel.

Abstract: A bubbler for gaseous delivery comprises a receptacle for containing a liquid, a gas inlet conduit, and a gas outlet conduit. The gas inlet conduit includes a first end for receiving a carrier gas and a second end terminating in the receptacle for bubbling the carrier gas into the liquid. The gas outlet conduit includes a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion. The first portion includes an opening located within the receptacle but above the liquid. The opening has a first cross-sectional area. The second portion has a second cross-sectional area larger than the first cross-sectional area. The third portion has a third cross-sectional area smaller than the second cross sectional area. The second portion causes a burp of the liquid entering the opening to not enter the third portion as gas is bubbled through the liquid.

Abstract: A method and system for increasing the quantity of a gas, e.g., ozone, dissolved in a liquid, e.g., ultrapure deionized water, are provided. The gas to be dissolved is introduced to the liquid under pressure and the resulting admixture delivered to the end-use station under pressure Once at the end-use station, the admixture comprising the liquid and dissolved gas is subjected to controlled dispensing. Thus, the method and system of the present invention are able to provide, e.g., ozonated water, continuously, efficiently and without cooling, thus providing a simple, cost efficient method of producing high concentration ozonated water.

Abstract: A diffuser for use in a pressurized feed system. The diffuser introduces a carbonic acid solution into water to be treated. The carbonic acid solution within the diffuser is maintained at an elevated pressure. As the carbonic acid solution passes to the exterior of the diffuser, the pressure drop causes an effective mixing of the carbonic acid solution and the water. The carbonic acid solution mixes with the water and the pH of the water is reduced.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for reducing residual solvent levels in extracted biomass that is contaminated with HFC solvent that includes sparging the biomass extract with a solvent stripping gas such as air or nitrogen are disclosed. Apparatus for carrying out the method include a vessel (12;25) containing extract (26) and a source of the gas. The source may be in the form of a moveable, hollow wand (27) having a sparging gas outlet; or a fixed gas inlet (30) for bubbling the gas through the extract (26).

Abstract: A supply system for feeding a fluid to a vessel (1) is described, which is provided with a feedline (10), having a reservoir which is filled with the fluid and a compressed-gas store (14) which can be brought into communication with this reservoir (13), in which system the reservoir (13) and the compressed-gas store (14) are arranged in immediate proximity to one another, and wherein the reservoir (13) can, when required, be brought into communication with the feedline (10) via connection pieces (11, 12).

Abstract: A diffuser for use in a pressurized feed system. The diffuser introduces a carbonic acid solution into water to be treated. The carbonic acid solution within the diffuser is maintained at an elevated pressure. As the carbonic acid solution passes to the exterior of the diffuser, the pressure drop causes an effective mixing of the carbonic acid solution and the water. The carbonic acid solution mixes with the water and the pH of the water is reduced.

Abstract: A method for increasing the quantity of a gas, e.g., ozone, dissolved in a liquid, e.g., ultrapure deionized water, are provided. The gas to be dissolved is introduced to the liquid under pressure and the resulting admixture delivered to the end-use station under pressure. Once at the end-use station, the admixture including the liquid and dissolved gas is subjected to controlled dispensing to maintain a high concentration of gas in the dispensed admixture.

Abstract: The invention is a method and apparatus for generating vortex rings in a fluid medium. The apparatus is immersed in a body of water, and an air pump feeds gas in the form of air directly into the base of the apparatus through a gas inlet or the gas is provided from a container with a Finite quantity of gas. A nozzle extends from the gas inlet to a pocket located on an underside of a lever. As air is pumped into the pocket, the air forms a single bubble, and when the force of the air mass exceeds the weight of the lever, the lever rises and the air mass travels as a cohesive unit to an exit nozzle. When the lever reaches the maximum height displacement defined by a resilient upper stop, the air exits the lever through a nozzle and forms a vortex ring.

Abstract: Method and apparatus are provided for a non-invasive bubble measuring instrument operable for detecting, distinguishing, and counting gaseous embolisms such as bubbles over a selectable range of bubble sizes of interest. A selected measurement volume in which bubbles may be detected is insonified by two distinct frequencies from a pump transducer and an image transducer, respectively. The image transducer frequency is much higher than the pump transducer frequency. The relatively low-frequency pump signal is used to excite bubbles to resonate at a frequency related to their diameter. The image transducer is operated in a pulse-echo mode at a controllable repetition rate that transmits bursts of high-frequency ultrasonic signal to the measurement volume in which bubbles may be detected and then receives the echo. From the echo or received signal, a beat signal related to the repetition rate may be extracted and used to indicate the presence or absence of a resonant bubble.

Abstract: A bubbler for use in vapor generation systems that minimizes splashing and the formation of aerosol droplets of liquid, which are carried out of the bubbler in the vapor stream and result in erratic mass transfer of the process chemical. A closed stainless steel vessel contains a carrier gas distribution plenum that distributes the carrier gas to a plurality of small diameter generator tubes, which are submerged into the process chemical. The length, inside diameter and number of the generator tubes are designed to inject a high velocity, small diameter stream of carrier gas into the liquid such that a long small diameter cylinder of carrier gas is created in the liquid. The surface tension of the liquid-gas interface causes the cylinder of gas to be pinched off at intervals along the length of the cylinder to produce a plurality of small bubbles the diameter of which is largely independent of the carrier gas flow rate.

Abstract: A pressure container for batch gasification of liquid includes a container filling opening (9) in its upper part and has mounted therein a float arrangement (8) for closing the container filling opening when a certain liquid level (7) is reached, a beverage dispensing opening (3), and a gas nozzle (20) which discharges into the container. The container (5) is indivisible and includes a side-wall opening (27). The gas nozzle (20) is fixed in a mounting base (31) that can be inserted into the container through the side-wall opening (27) and secured firmly in a position in which the edges of the base (31) lie sealingly against the inner container surface surrounding the opening. That part of the mounting base (31) located on the inside of the container (5) is provided with a mechanism for pivotal attachment of the float arrangement.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for supplying humidified air to a terrarium include providing a chamber within which there is placed a reservoir of water and a humidifying member having a humidifying surface located adjacent the surface of the water in the reservoir so that air released below the surface of the water in the reservoir rises through the reservoir of water to burst from the surface of the water and thereby drive water droplets to the humidifying surface of the so as to wet the humidifying surface and expose air in the chamber to the wetted humidifying surface. The air thus exposed is humidified by exposure to the wetted humidifying surface, and the humidified air is delivered to the terrarium. The humidifying surface includes a reticulated configuration providing the humidifying surface with an extended surface area for enhanced humidification.

Abstract: Oxygen is mixed with waste water at an early stage in a water treatment facility, to reduce odor caused by anaerobic reactions of sulfur. Waste water is withdrawn from a collection basin, by a pump connected to a suction pipe, and is mixed with oxygen from an external source. The mixture, having been saturated with oxygen, is then returned to the collection basin through a discharge pipe. The end of the discharge pipe is positioned at a higher vertical level than the end of the suction pipe, to prevent gas from entering the pump which would cause cavitation. Also, the end of the discharge pipe has a blind flange, such that the oxygen-enriched water exiting the discharge pipe flows in a direction which is non-parallel to the axis of the pipe. This arrangement provides better mixing of the oxygen with the water in the basin, and prevents the oxygen-enriched water from flowing too soon to the suction pipe.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for dissolving an gas into a fluid which may contain at least one dissolved gas. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a first vertically oriented tube defining a first inner space therein and having open upper and bottom ends. The apparatus also includes a second vertically oriented tube of diameter larger than the first tube and concentrically oriented about the first tube. The space between the first and second tubes is referred to as the second inner space. For introduction of the gas, the apparatus includes an inlet into the second inner space. The appartus includes an acceleration device for accelerating the flow of fluid through the second inner space. The acceleration device is placed above the bubble swarm. Further, the apparatus includes a helix-shaped bubble harvester located below the bubble swarm.

Abstract: A water pressure-type aeration device including a water pump that generates powerful water pressure, with the water pumped through a water distribution head and a number of water distribution tubes which are placed throughout the water of a pond (or tank). The ends of the water distribution tubes are installed to cavitation housings, with the each of the cavitation housings connected at an angle of 90 degrees to the fresh air supply tubes which are directly conjoined to air filter and delivery devices floating on the surface of the water. When water is conveyed under pressure to the cavitation housings at the ends of the water distribution tubes, rear pressure constrictive openings in conjunction with a spray guide elements inside the housings generate powerful water pressure and the resulting friction across the tubular openings of fresh air supply tubes draw air in that is mixed with water in the cavitation housings and discharged from spray nozzles, thereby replenishing oxygen in the water.

Abstract: A monolithic, fired ceramic gas diffuser for injecting gas into a molten metal bath, including a first portion, a second portion integrated with the first portion, and a bore passing through the first portion and communicating with the second portion for supplying gas to the second portion, wherein at least the second portion has a network of interconnected pores that provides preferential gas flow from the bore through the second portion to inject gas into the molten metal bath.

Abstract: A jet reactor pump as used to circulate heated water into a swimming pool at near sonic velocity to heat the swimming pool water.

Abstract: A residential method for treating water with an oxidizing gas operates under elevated pressure. The elevated pressure is obtained by means of a pressurized oxidizing gas source (eg. an air pump) or a Prandtl layer turbine. The elevated pressure of the treated water is optionally used to dispense the treated water. The Prandtl layer turbine may be used to obtain particularly fine bubbles of a gas (eg. bubbles from about 1&mgr; to about 20&mgr; in diameter) in a liquid.

Abstract: This invention relates to a culture device of a domed shape, a conical shape, or a cylindrical shape of a closed type used for culture of microalgae, and a gas discharge device set so as to be movable in the culture device. The culture device is basically composed of a transparent inside member (a semispherical dome, a conical peripheral wall, or a cylindrical peripheral wall), a transparent outside member, and a bottom portion connecting the lower ends of the two members, a cylindrical opening portion is provided at the top part of the outside member, and a gas introducing member and a discharging member of a culture solution are provided in the bottom portion. The gas discharge device is basically composed of two opposed rectangular base plates, a bubble guide member, and a discharge nozzle. The culture solution can be agitated without mechanical agitation and the culture can be carried out in high concentrations.

Abstract: The present invention is a oxygen generating device which comprises: a container having a mouth and a neck surrounding the mouth; a tank which has an annual flange for establishing a gas tight seal between the tank and the neck; a dome assembly which is engageable with the neck and extends upwardly to define a dome chamber above the neck; and means for permitting oxygen generated in the tank to flow into the dome chamber by bubbling through a liquid contained in the dome base; the dome base having an outlet connection through which oxygen can leave the chamber and where at least part of the dome is transparent so as to render the inside thereof visible from the outside of the dome.

Abstract: Method and apparatus generate a mixture of the vapor of an organic liquid such as tetraethylorthosilicate (TEOS) and an inert gas such as helium. The ratio of organic vapor to inert gas in the mixture is accurately and continuously controlled as required in semiconductor manufacturing. The apparatus encloses a bubbler chamber which is filled with an organic liquid (e.g., TEOS) to a set level that is automatically maintained. The liquid is also maintained at an exact temperature (e.g., 75° C.). Inert gas (e.g., helium) flows into the bubbler chamber at a controlled rate and continuously evaporates some of the liquid therein. The flow of liquid into the bubbler chamber is monitored by a liquid control circuit, and flow of gas is controlled by a gas control circuit. A feedback signal from the liquid control circuit to the gas control circuit incrementally adjusts gas flow into the bubbler chamber to keep the liquid therein at the set level.

Abstract: The present invention provides aeration methods using spherical gas bubbles having a size on the order of 0.1 to 100 microns in size. A device of the invention for producing a monodispersion of bubbles includes a source of a stream of gas which is forced through a liquid held under pressure in a pressure chamber with an exit opening therein. The stream of gas surrounded by the liquid in the pressure chamber flows out of an exit orifice of the chamber into a liquid thereby creating a monodispersion of bubbles with substantially uniform diameter. The bubbles are small in size and produced with a relatively small amount of energy relative to comparable systems. Applications of the aeration technology range from oxygenating sewage with monodispersions of bubbles to oxygenation of water for fish maintenance.

Abstract: Apparatus for facilitating the mixing, absorption and/or retention of carbon dioxide ‘CO2’ in hydrocarbon fuel to economically produce a safety-enhanced and/or improved-combustion fuel. The apparatus includes at least one mixing receptacle having at least one coupling with a controllable inert gas supply; at least one coupling with a controllable hydrocarbon fuel supply; and at least one coupling with a CO2-enriched fuel fuel-line. The mixing receptacle(s) is configured to retain a volume of fuel and a volume of CO2 such that CO2-enriched fuel having a controllable gas-fuel ratio is the product of the mixing receptacle(s) and the gas of the ratio(s) exceeds 0.1 volume of CO2 per volume of fuel and is less than approximately 3 volumes per volume of fuel when conveyed from the receptacle(s). The apparatus controls the exposure of hydrocarbon fuel molecules to an optimal volume of CO2 within the receptacle(s).

Abstract: Oxygen is mixed with waste water at an early stage in a water treatment facility, to reduce odor caused by anaerobic reactions of sulfur. Waste water is withdrawn from a collection basin, by a pump connected to a suction pipe, and is mixed with oxygen from an external source. The mixture, having been saturated with oxygen, is then returned to the collection basin through a discharge pipe. The end of the discharge pipe is positioned at a higher vertical level than the end of the suction pipe, to prevent gas from entering the pump which would cause cavitation. Also, the end of the discharge pipe has a blind flange, such that the oxygen-enriched water exiting the discharge pipe flows in a direction which is non-parallel to the axis of the pipe. This arrangement provides better mixing of the oxygen with the water in the basin, and prevents the oxygen-enriched water from flowing too soon to the suction pipe.

Abstract: A method and apparatus of increasing the oxygen transfer rate, residence time, and circulation pathways within waste water is provided. The process uses cyclic bursts of compressed air to establish flow patterns within waste water. The flow patterns increase the residence time of air supplied by conventional aeration sources. The increased aeration facilitates the treatment of the waste water. Additional benefits which result from the process include increased mixing of the waste water along with additional aeration brought about from the cyclic air bursts.

Abstract: An aerator for a water treatment plant or water conditioning application, includes a draft tube for vertical positioning within a volume of water and an outlet structure overlying a top open end of the draft tube. Water is lifted or pumped through the draft tube out of the top open end. The outlet structure includes a stepped splash plate which deflects the water flowing out of the top open end in a cascading fashion which increases the oxygenation efficiency and spray pattern of the thus aerated water. Additionally, a blinder bracket is applied to the outlet structure to reduce flow from the outlet structure at a particular preselected arc. The draft tube and outlet structure can be molded as a unitary plastic piece, and flow windows and openings can be cut into the piece.

Abstract: A bubble humidifier for humidifying gas bubbled through water contained in a container member prior to this gas being sent to a patient is provided. The bubble humidifier includes a container member having a lid, a gas inlet member connected to a gas source, a member for transporting the gas from the gas inlet member into the liquid, and a gas outlet member which feeds the humidified gas to the patient. A valve inlet member is associated with the humidifier unit and allows for the addition of liquid, which humidifies the gas, into the humidifier unit without disassembling the humidifier unit.

Abstract: An improved disposable bubble oxygen humidifier is provided having a humidifying chamber included for the blending of oxygen and moisture. A slide switch on the top of the humidifier directs pure oxygen to the patient, or alternately, routes the oxygen through the humidifier and on to the patient. Hoses are attached at an inlet supply port and an outlet discharge port.