Polygonal continuous flow reactor for photochemical processes

Abstract

The present invention provides a photoreactor assembly (1) comprising a reactor (30), wherein the reactor (30) is configured for containing a fluid (100) to be treated using light source radiation (11), the light source radiation (11) being selected from one or more of UV radiation, visible radiation and IR radiation, wherein the reactor (30) comprises a reactor wall (35) that transmits the light source radiation (11), wherein (i) the reactor (30) is a tubular reactor (130), and wherein the reactor wall (35) defines the tubular reactor (130); (ii) the tubular reactor (130) is configured to be in a tubular arrangement (1130); (iii) the photoreactor assembly (1) further comprises a light source arrangement (1010), the light source arrangement (1010) comprising a plurality of light sources (10) configured to generate the light source radiation (11), wherein the reactor wall (35) is configured to be in a radiation receiving relationship with the plurality of light sources (10); and (iv) one or more of the tubular arrangement (1130) and the light source arrangement (1010) define a polygon (50).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a photoreactor assembly and a method for treating a fluid using radiation from a light source. Background Art

[0002] Reactor systems for photo(chemical) treatment of fluids are known in the art. For example, US2016 / 0017266 describes a photobioreactor for treating polluted air and producing biomass. The photobioreactor may at least partially include a generally vertical pipe or fluid passage, a generally vertical spiral pipe or fluid passage with a light source partially located within the spiral fluid passage, a head cap assembly, and a base assembly. In one example, the light source may be a light emitting diode (LED) or multiple light emitting diodes (LEDs). Summary of the Invention

[0003] Photochemical treatments or photochemical processes involve the chemical effects of light. More generally, photochemistry refers to (chemical) reactions caused by the absorption of light, in particular ultraviolet (radiation), visible (radiation) and / or infrared (radiation). For example, photochemistry can be used to synthesize specific products. For example, isomerization reactions or free radical reactions can be initiated by light. Other naturally occurring processes that are induced by light are, for example, photosynthesis or the formation of vitamin D using sunlight. Photochemistry can also be used, for example, to degrade / oxidize pollutants in water or, for example, in the air. Photochemical reactions can be carried out in photochemical reactors or "photoreactors."

[0004] However, in most photochemical reactions, the reaction rate is limited by the penetration of light into the fluid containing the reactants. Light is absorbed in the fluid and travels through it essentially according to the Beer-Lambert law. The intensity of light decreases logarithmically relative to the length traveled. Therefore, reactants farther from the light source cannot receive the required amount of light (energy), and the process may take longer or, for example, result in lower yields or efficiencies.

[0005] Furthermore, the light sources commonly used in photochemistry are low-pressure mercury lamps, medium-pressure mercury lamps, or fluorescent lamps. Furthermore, some reactions require very specific wavelength regions and can even be hindered by light from sources emitting at other wavelengths. In these cases, part of the spectrum must be filtered out, leading to low efficiency and complex reactor design.

[0006] In recent years, the output of light-emitting diodes (LEDs), such as direct LEDs with dominant wavelengths ranging from UVC wavelengths to IR wavelengths and phosphor-converted LEDs, has increased dramatically, making them interesting candidates for photochemical light sources. High flux can be obtained from a small surface, especially if the LEDs can be kept at low temperatures. The size and shape of the LEDs, their specific wavelengths, and cooling requirements can impose additional constraints on the design of photochemical reactor vessels.

[0007] Therefore, one aspect of the present invention provides an alternative photoreactor assembly that preferably further at least partially eliminates one or more of the above-mentioned disadvantages. Another aspect of the present invention provides an alternative (photochemical) method for treating a fluid using light that preferably further at least partially eliminates one or more of the above-mentioned disadvantages. It is an object of the present invention to overcome or ameliorate at least one of the disadvantages of the prior art or to provide a useful alternative.

[0008] Therefore, in a first aspect, the present invention provides a photoreactor assembly comprising a reactor, wherein the reactor is configured to accommodate a fluid to be treated using light source radiation. In various embodiments, the light source radiation comprises UV radiation. In other embodiments, the light source radiation (also) comprises visible radiation (or visible light). In other specific embodiments, the light source radiation (also) comprises IR radiation. In specific embodiments, the light source radiation is selected from one or more of the following: UV radiation, visible radiation, and IR radiation. The reactor comprises a reactor wall that in particular (at least partially) transmits the light source radiation. In other specific embodiments, the reactor is a tubular reactor. In particular, the reactor wall defines the reactor, in particular, the tubular reactor. In other embodiments, the tubular reactor is configured to be arranged in a tubular configuration. In other embodiments, the photoreactor assembly further comprises a light source arrangement. The light source arrangement in particular comprises (one light source, or in particular) a plurality of light sources. The one or more light sources are in particular configured to generate light source radiation. In other embodiments, the reactor wall is configured to be in a radiation-receiving relationship with the light source(s). In specific embodiments, one or more of the tubular arrangement and the light source arrangement have rotational symmetry. In other specific embodiments, one or more of the tubular arrangement and the light source arrangement define a polygon.

[0009] In a particular embodiment, the present invention provides a photoreactor assembly ("assembly") comprising a reactor, wherein the reactor is configured to contain a fluid to be treated using light source radiation selected from one or more of the following: UV radiation, visible radiation, and IR radiation, wherein the reactor includes a reactor wall that transmits the light source radiation, wherein (i) the reactor is a tubular reactor and wherein the reactor wall defines the tubular reactor; (ii) the tubular reactor is configured in a tubular arrangement; (iii) the photoreactor assembly further comprises a light source arrangement comprising a plurality of light sources configured to generate the light source radiation, wherein the reactor wall is configured in a radiation receiving relationship with the plurality of light sources; and in particular (iv) one or more of the tubular arrangement and the light source arrangement define a polygon.

[0010] In this photoreactor assembly, with regard to the relationship between the light output of the light source and the power input and the capture of light by the reactants, operation can be performed under high efficiency. In various embodiments, the photoreactor assembly can be easily configured for the type of treatment to be implemented, and for example the light source can be (easily) replaced by other light sources, such as, for changing the wavelength of the light source radiation. In other specific embodiments, the heat generated by the light source can be easily dissipated, thereby allowing high energy input.

[0011] Photoreactor can be used for treating fluid (or mixture of fluid, comprising mixture including gaseous fluid and liquid fluid) using light source radiation according to the method described herein. As mentioned above, many photochemical reactions are known, such as dissociation reaction, isomerization or rearrangement reaction, addition reaction and substitution reaction and, for example, redox reaction. In various embodiments, (photochemical) reaction includes photocatalytic reaction. These photochemical reactions can especially use the energy of light source radiation to change the quantum state (atom or molecule) (its absorption energy) of the system to an excited state. In the excited state, the system can continuously further react with itself or other systems (atoms, molecules) and / or can induce other reactions. In a specific embodiment, the rate of the photochemical reaction can be controlled by the added (photo) catalyst or photosensitizer. The term "treatment" used herein, such as the "treatment" in the phrase "treating fluid using light source (light)", "treated" etc., can especially relate to performing photochemical reaction on the relevant (especially photosensitive) system (atom or molecule) in the fluid, especially thereby raising the system (atom, molecule) to a state of higher energy, and especially causing other reactions. In various embodiments, a photoactive compound may be provided to the fluid before and / or during irradiation of the fluid. For example, a photocatalyst and / or a photosensitizer may be added to initiate and / or promote / accelerate a photochemical reaction.

[0012] In this document, such atoms or molecules may also be named as "(photosensitive) reactants". Therefore, the term "treating a fluid (using light)" and similar terms may particularly relate to irradiating a fluid with radiation from a light source (and causing reactants in the fluid to react). Terms such as "irradiating a fluid" in the phrase "irradiating a fluid with radiation from a light source" particularly relate to (emitting / radiating light source radiation and) providing light source radiation (in this respect, providing light source radiation towards the fluid). Therefore, the terms "providing light source radiation (to the fluid)" and the like and "irradiating (a fluid) with radiation from a light source" herein may particularly be used interchangeably. Moreover, the terms "light" and "radiation" may be used interchangeably herein, particularly with respect to light source radiation.

[0013] The term "fluid" may relate to a variety of (different) fluids. Further, the fluid may include a liquid and / or a gas. The fluid may in particular include a photosensitive reactant (including a photocatalyst and / or a photosensitizer), in particular be sensitive to light source radiation.

[0014] When absorbing (light source) radiation (light), the energy of the photon can be absorbed. Photon energy can also be indicated as hν, where h is Planck's constant and ν is the frequency of the photon. Therefore, the amount of energy provided to an atom or molecule can be provided in discrete quantities, and in particular a function of the frequency of the light (photon). Furthermore, exciting an atom or molecule to a higher state may also require a specific amount of energy, which is preferably matched to the amount of energy provided by the photon. This can also explain why different photochemical reactions may require light with different wavelengths. Therefore, in each embodiment, the component can be configured to control the wavelength of the light source radiation.

[0015] By irradiating the fluid in the reactor with light source radiation, a photochemical reaction can be implemented in the reactor. Therefore, the wall of the reactor can be configured to transmit light source radiation. The term "transmission" in the phrase "transmission light source radiation" especially refers to the property of allowing light source radiation to pass through (wall). In various embodiments, the reactor wall may be translucent for light source radiation. However, in other embodiments, the reactor wall is transparent for light source radiation. The term "transmission" does not necessarily mean that 100% of the light source radiation emitted to the reactor wall can also pass through the wall. In various embodiments, at least 50% of the light source radiation emitted to the reactor wall can pass through the reactor wall. The relative amount of light source radiation passing through the reactor wall can, for example, depend on the wavelength of the light source radiation.

[0016] In various embodiments, the reactor wall is configured to transmit UV radiation. In other embodiments, the reactor wall (also) can, for example, be configured to transmit visible radiation. In yet other embodiments, the reactor wall (also) is configured to transmit IR radiation. The reactor wall is especially configured to be in a radiation receiving relationship with a plurality of light sources. The term "radiation receiving relationship" relates to being configured so that the radiation (light) emitted by the light source can be provided directly or indirectly to the reactor wall. The radiation (light) can substantially travel directly from the light source to the wall along a straight line, and / or the radiation (light) can travel from the light source to the wall via a (light / radiation) reflective element (reflecting light source radiation). Additionally or alternatively, the radiation (light) can travel to the wall via scattering, diffusion, etc.

[0017] The term "reactor" relates in particular to a (photo)chemical reactor. The term generally relates to an enclosed (reactor) volume in which a (photochemical) reaction can take place. A reactor comprises, in particular, a reactor wall which encloses the (enclosed) volume. The reactor wall can define the reactor, in particular the type of reactor. Basic types of reactors are known to those skilled in the art and include (stirred) tank reactors and tubular reactors. Reactors include, in particular, tubular reactors. Tubular reactors may comprise one or more pipes or tubes. The pipes may comprise many different shapes and sizes.

[0018] The pipeline can, for example, include an (inner) circular cross section. However, in other embodiments, the pipeline can include a rectangular cross section or, for example, a hexagonal cross section and / or a polygonal cross section. In a specific embodiment, the pipeline includes a polygonal cross section. In other embodiments, the pipeline can include a cylindrical shape, which includes an annular cross section (annulus). Therefore, in various embodiments, the pipeline can include a double-walled pipeline, in particular a double-walled pipeline including an outer wall and an inner wall, wherein the outer wall and the inner wall (together) enclose the reactor volume. During operation, fluid can flow between the inner wall and the outer wall. The inner wall and the outer wall can especially be configured to be similar and coaxial relative to each other. In this way, the annulus (combined with the length of the pipeline and optionally the length of all pipelines) can limit the reactor volume. In various embodiments, the inner wall and the outer wall can define a polygon. In other embodiments, the pipeline includes a single wall that encloses the reactor volume. The latter may also be referred to as a single-walled pipeline in this article.

[0019] The term "(reactor) wall" may relate to a plurality of (different) reactor walls. The term may, for example, refer to the aforementioned inner reactor wall and outer reactor wall. The term may also, for example, refer to the walls of a plurality of pipes.

[0020] The term "similar" in relation to the shapes of elements especially means geometrically similar, ie one of the shapes may be identical to the other after resizing, flipping, sliding or rotating. Similar shapes may be conformal.

[0021] The pipe may be elongated. The length of the pipe may in particular be greater than the (inner) width of the pipe. In various embodiments, the ratio of the length of the pipe to the (inner) width of the pipe may be greater than 5, in particular greater than 10. The pipe may include a (slender) pipe axis. In various embodiments, the term "(pipe) width" may relate to the characteristic (inner) distance (or dimension) between two opposite sides of the wall of the pipe / the width of the annulus (of a double-walled pipe). However, in other embodiments (including single-walled pipes), the term may relate to the (inner) width or (inner) height of the pipe (in particular the (longest) distance between two relative positions at the single wall of the pipe, in particular only a line perpendicular to the pipe axis). The term may, for example, refer to the inner diameter (of a circular cross-section) of the pipe.

[0022] The term "annulus" may relate to a circular annulus as well as a polygonal annulus, such as a square annulus (or any other geometric shape defining a cross-sectional area between an inner wall and an outer wall).

[0023] Further, the pipeline in particular includes an inlet opening and an outlet opening arranged at the end of the pipeline (and defining the length of the pipeline). The fluid flow arranged at the inlet opening can in particular leave the pipeline at the outlet opening. During operation, the fluid can flow from the inlet opening to the outlet opening along the "flow direction" or "direction of flow". The pipeline axis is in particular (partially) configured to be parallel to the flow direction. Further, the pipeline in particular does not include a fluid flow restriction component in the pipeline. In various embodiments, the pipeline is configured to allow a constant fluid velocity along the length of the pipeline. In various embodiments, the pipeline can include a (substantially) constant inner cross-sectional area (or flow-through cross-sectional area).

[0024] The term "pipeline" refers in particular to a "pipe," "channel," "elongated (open) container," "piping system," "pipe system," etc., which can hold a fluid and, in particular, can transport a fluid therethrough. Thus, terms such as "piping system," "pipe," "pipe system," "channel," etc., can also be used to refer to a pipe. Furthermore, in various embodiments, the term "pipeline" can refer to a plurality of pipes.

[0025] In a particular embodiment, the tubular reactor includes a plurality of pipes. These pipes are particularly arranged parallel to each other. Therefore, in various embodiments, the tubular arrangement may include a plurality of pipes. In various embodiments, the tubular arrangement axis is particularly configured to be parallel to the pipe axis (such as the pipe axis of one or more pipes). In other embodiments, the tubular arrangement may particularly have rotational symmetry (especially around the tubular arrangement axis). In various embodiments, the tubular arrangement may define a circle or, for example, an ellipse. In other embodiments, the tubular arrangement may define a polygon (see also below). The double-walled pipe may, for example, be configured to define one or more of the above-mentioned polygons or circles (or ellipses). In a particular embodiment, the pipe may include a plurality of (rectangular) plates or wall elements defining the wall. For example, in one embodiment, the inner wall includes four plates or wall elements (defining the inner wall), and the outer wall includes four plates / wall elements. These wall elements / plates may be arranged to provide a double-walled rectangular (square) pipe, in particular, with a rectangular (square) annulus between the inner wall and the outer wall. Therefore, these (eight) wall elements / plates may define the pipe together, wherein the tubular arrangement defines a rectangle (square). Should be understood that cylindrical pipe and the pipe with other (polygonal) shapes can be configured equally.In an alternative embodiment, double-walled pipe can be replaced by a plurality of (parallel arrangements) pipes.In the following embodiment and in the embodiment comprising double-walled pipe, the tubular arrangement axis is especially configured to be parallel to the pipe axis.In other embodiments (especially comprising a plurality of pipes), these pipes can be arranged transversely relative to the tubular arrangement axis.Pipeline can be partially bent around the tubular arrangement axis (also see below).In particular, (it) is arranged to be parallel to the pipe axis of the tubular arrangement axis (generally) component greater than (it) is arranged to be perpendicular to the pipe axis of the tubular arrangement component.

[0026] Thus, in various embodiments, the tubular arrangement axis may be arranged parallel to the pipe axis (but in particular aligned with the direction of flow through the pipe). The tubular arrangement may be configured as a straight tubular arrangement. In various embodiments, the tubular arrangement comprises a straight tubular arrangement, in particular wherein a first component of the pipe axis, which is arranged parallel to the tubular arrangement axis, is greater than a second component of the pipe axis, which is arranged perpendicular to the tubular arrangement axis.

[0027] In certain embodiments, the tubular reactor comprises an inner reactor wall and an outer reactor wall that together define a tubular reactor, wherein one or more transmissive light sources in the inner reactor wall and the outer reactor wall radiate, and wherein the tubular arrangement comprises a straight tubular arrangement.

[0028] In other embodiments, the conduit can be bent, flexed, or, for example, folded. Furthermore, the direction of the (elongated) conduit axis can change along the length of the conduit. The flow direction along the conduit can change accordingly. The conduit can, for example, be coiled. Such bends, flexures, or folds can, in particular, be configured to (locally) not (substantially) obstruct any possible fluid flow through the conduit.

[0029] The tubular reactor can be spiral. The tubular shape can resemble a corkscrew. In other embodiments, the tubular reactor has a shape corresponding to a circular helix (having a constant radius relative to the tubular arrangement axis). The tubular can be coiled. A coiled tubing can include a single turn or a single winding. In various embodiments, the coil can include less than a single turn. However, a coiled tubing can include multiple turns or multiple windings.

[0030] The pipeline can, for example, include at least 10 windings or turns, in particular at least 20 windings, such as at least 50 windings. In various embodiments, the pipeline includes 2 to 200 windings or turns, in particular 5 to 100 windings or turns, and even more particularly 10 to 75 windings or turns. The windings or turns are particularly (all) configured to be aligned with each other. In this way, the coil or coil can include a single layer of windings or turns (in particular with respect to the tubular arrangement axis). In other embodiments, the windings or turns can define a face of the (coiled) tubular reactor (or tubular arrangement). In other embodiments, the windings or turns can define two opposing faces of the tubular reactor. These faces are particularly configured to be in a radiation receiving relationship with the light source.

[0031] It should be understood that intermediate configurations between substantially straight tubing and coiled tubing are also part of the present invention. In various embodiments, for example, a tubular reactor includes (a plurality of) coiled tubing comprising less than one turn, such as half a turn or only a quarter turn. This configuration can be composed of a coiled tubing configuration and / or a straight tubing configuration.

[0032] In other characteristic embodiments, the distance between consecutive windings or turns of the coil can be minimized. In various embodiments, the consecutive windings (turns) of the coil can be arranged to contact each other substantially along the entire winding (turn). In various embodiments, the pitch of the coil can be substantially equal to the characteristic outer dimension of the pipe. In other embodiments, the pitch can be equal to or less than 10 times the outer dimension of the pipe, such as equal to or less than 5 times the outer dimension of the pipe. In various embodiments, the pitch can be, for example, approximately 2 times the characteristic outer dimension (in particular to leave space for another (in particular parallel arranged) pipe). However, in various embodiments, the pitch can be greater than 10 times the characteristic outer dimension, such as 50 times or 100 times. The term "pitch" is known to those skilled in the art and refers in particular to the shortest distance between the centers (pipe axis) of two adjacent windings or turns.

[0033] The term "characteristic outer dimension" particularly relates to the maximum distance from a first location on the pipe (reactor) wall to a second location on the pipe (reactor) wall along a line perpendicular to the pipe axis. For circular pipes, the outer dimension is equal to the outer diameter. For square or rectangular pipes, the outer dimension may refer to the outer height or outer width of the pipe.

[0034] Therefore, in various embodiments, the tubular arrangement comprises a coiled arrangement. In a particular embodiment, the tubular reactor is configured as a coiled tubular arrangement. In a coiled tubular arrangement, the tubular arrangement axis can in particular be configured not to be parallel to the pipe axis. In various embodiments, the tubular arrangement axis can be configured to be substantially transverse to the (elongated) pipe axis. The (elongated) pipe axis and the tubular arrangement axis can, for example, define an angle in the range of 45° to 135°, such as an angle in the range of 60° to 120°, in particular an angle in the range of 80° to 100°, even more in particular 90°±5°. The tubular reactor in particular comprises a (coiled) pipe. In a particular embodiment, the tubular reactor is coiled in a spiral manner.

[0035] In a particular embodiment, the present invention provides a photoreactor assembly ("assembly") comprising a reactor, wherein the reactor is configured for containing a fluid to be treated using light source radiation selected from one or more of UV radiation, visible radiation and IR radiation, wherein the reactor comprises a reactor wall that transmits the light source radiation, wherein (i) the reactor is a tubular reactor and wherein the reactor wall defines the tubular reactor; (ii) the tubular reactor is configured in a coiled tubular arrangement (in particular having a tubular arrangement axis (A1)), in particular wherein the tubular reactor is coiled in a spiral manner; (iii) the photoreactor assembly further comprises a light source arrangement comprising a plurality of light sources configured to generate light source radiation, wherein the reactor wall is configured in a radiation receiving relationship with the plurality of light sources; and in particular (iv) one or more of the coiled tubular arrangement and the light source arrangement define a polygon.

[0036] The conduit (at least partially) transmits radiation from the light source, in particular the radiation provided to the conduit can pass unimpeded through the conduit wall. In various embodiments, the conduit is made of glass. The conduit can be made, for example, of quartz, borosilicate glass, soda lime (silicon), high-silicon high-temperature glass, aluminosilicate glass or soda barium soft glass (or soda barium glass) (PH160 glass). Glass can be sold, for example, as Vycor, Corex or Pyrex. In various embodiments, the conduit is (at least partially) made of amorphous silica (such as known as fused silica, fused quartz, quartz glass or quartz). In other embodiments, the conduit can be made, at least partially, of a (transmissive) polymer. Suitable polymers are, for example, poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), silicone / polysiloxane, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), perfluoroalkoxyalkane (PFA) and fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP). The conduit can also include a transmissive ceramic material. Examples of transmissive ceramics are, for example, aluminum oxide Al2O3, yttrium aluminum garnet (YAG), and spinels such as magnesium aluminate spinel (MgAl2O4) and aluminum oxynitride spinel (Al2O3). 23 O 27 N5). In various embodiments, for example, the conduit is (at least partially) made of one of these ceramics. In yet another embodiment, the conduit may comprise (or be made of) a transmissive material such as BaF2, CaF2, and MgF2. The conduit material may also be selected based on the fluid to be processed. In particular, a material that is inert to (the compounds in) the fluid may be selected.

[0037] Preferably, the light provided to the conduit can substantially penetrate all the fluid in the conduit, and the conduit can in particular have an inner characteristic dimension, such as a diameter or inner width or height of less than 10 mm, in particular less than 8 mm, such as less than 5 mm. In various embodiments, the characteristic dimension can be at least 0.1 mm, such as 0.2 mm, in particular at least 0.5 mm. Thus, in various embodiments, the conduit comprises a diameter selected from 0.01 mm. 2 Up to 80mm 2 , especially 0.45mm 2 Up to 2mm 2 inner cross-sectional area.

[0038] In this document, the term polygon is used, in particular with respect to polygons of different arrangements and shapes. A polygon is generally a two-dimensional figure described by a finite number of straight line segments, called edges or sides. In this document, the term "polygon" may in particular refer to a convex polygon. Further, polygons include in particular regular polygons. The polygons may be, for example, squares, pentagons, hexagons, heptagons, octagons, enneagons, decagons, etc. In various embodiments, the polygons may include n polygons, in particular wherein n is at least 3, such as at least 4. In various embodiments, n is equal to or less than 50, in particular equal to or less than 20, such as equal to or less than 12, in particular equal to or less than 10, such as 4≤n≤10. The n polygon comprises n edges or sides. Therefore, one or more polygons described herein may also in particular comprise a number of edges equal to n.

[0039] Furthermore, phrases such as "one or more of the elements define a polygon" may specifically indicate that the outline, perimeter, contour, or periphery of a cross-section of the element defines a polygon. The outline, perimeter, contour, or periphery need not include all straight edges. In particular, a polygon substantially corresponding to the outline may be depicted around the element (defining the polygon). For example, at least 90% of the area of ​​the polygon may correspond to the corresponding cross-section of the element. Furthermore, in various embodiments, the edges of the polygon may be straight, however, the corners of the element may be rounded. However, in other embodiments, the edges may be slightly curved.

[0040] In various embodiments, the reactor (especially the pipeline) can be configured as a self-supporting structure. Additionally or alternatively, the reactor (especially the pipeline) can be configured between (other) structural elements of the photoreactor assembly. The photoreactor assembly can also include a reactor support element ("support element"), which is configured to support the reactor. In various embodiments, the reactor support element can include a plurality of (light source) light-transmitting plates that enclose the reactor (pipeline). The pipeline (bent, flexed, folded, etc.) can be configured between a group of such plates. The light-transmitting plate can, for example, include the material described for the transmission pipeline. In such embodiments, the cross-section of the pipeline can have a more or less embossed or flat shape. In other embodiments, the reactor support element can include a support frame. The reactor support element can include one or more pillars (configured to support the reactor). In various embodiments, the tubular reactor can be connected to one or more pillars. In other embodiments, the tubular reactor can be coiled around one or more pillars (see below).

[0041] The reactor support element may, in particular, comprise a support body. The term "support body" may relate to a plurality of (different) support bodies. The term may also relate to a plurality of (different) support elements that together define a support body. For example, a plurality of support struts may define a support body. In other specific embodiments, the support body has rotational symmetry. The support body may, for example, comprise a cylindrical shape or define an elongated body having a polygonal shape (or cross-section). In various embodiments, the tubular reactor is wound around the support body (see also below). Additionally or alternatively, the tubular reactor may be enclosed by the support body. The reactor may, in particular, be supported and contacted by the support body. In particular, at least a portion of the tubular reactor is configured to be in contact with the support body, in particular in thermal contact. The support body may be configured to dissipate heat from the reactor / cool at least a portion of the assembly (see also below). In other embodiments, the support body may comprise one or more heat-conducting elements and / or be in thermal contact with one or more heat-conducting elements (see also below). The reactor support element (in particular the support body) may be substantially solid and may, for example, comprise a radiator. Additionally or alternatively, the reactor support element (in particular the support body) can be a (hollow) body (see below) comprising one or more (cooling) fluid conveying channels. The support body can in particular comprise a support body axis, in particular configured to be parallel to the tubular arrangement axis. In various embodiments, the one or more (cooling) channels are configured to be parallel to the support body axis. In various embodiments, the one or more fluid conveying channels can extend from a first end of the support body axis (along the support body axis) to an opposite end of the support body. In other embodiments, the ends of the one or more fluid conveying channels can be arranged at the same end or the same side of the support body. Additionally or alternatively, the support element (in particular the support body) can comprise, for example, a cavity for accommodating a cooling fluid.

[0042] Therefore, in each embodiment, the photoreactor assembly further comprises a reactor support element configured to support the reactor, wherein the reactor support element comprises a support body, wherein at least a portion of the tubular reactor is configured to be in thermal contact with the support body, and wherein one or more heat conductive elements are constituted by the support body or are in thermal contact with the support body.

[0043] The term "thermal conductive element" may particularly relate to any element that can conduct heat. The thermal conductive element particularly comprises a thermally conductive material or is made of a thermally conductive material. The thermal conductivity of the thermally conductive material can, for example, be at least 10W / mK, such as at least 50W / mK, particularly at least 100W / mK. The thermally conductive material can comprise a metal, such as an alloy of copper, aluminum, steel, iron, silver, lead, or one or more (these) metals. In various embodiments, the thermally conductive element may comprise a layer or coating, which is arranged to be configured at an element comprising the thermally conductive element or as a part of an element comprising the thermally conductive element. In other embodiments, the element comprising the thermally conductive element may be configured to have thermal conductivity, and in particular may be made of a thermally conductive material. In other embodiments, the element comprising the thermally conductive element may be used as a radiator or heat spreader. In yet other embodiments, the thermally conductive element comprises a (dedicated) radiator, for example, the (dedicated) radiator comprises fins or other elements to increase the contact area between the radiator and the cooling medium. The heat-conducting element can facilitate the heat generated in the reactor assembly to be transported from a relatively hot position to a relatively cold position, in particular to a position outside the reactor assembly. In the reactor assembly, heat can be generated by a light source, for example, and provided to the reactor, in particular via irradiation. Heat can in particular be transported to a cooling fluid (see below) away from the light source and the reactor via the heat-conducting element.

[0044] In various embodiments, the reactor support element (especially the support body) at least partially comprises (or is made of) a thermally conductive material.In other embodiments, (at least a portion of) the reactor support element (especially the support body) is transmissive to the light source radiation.

[0045] As used herein, the term "reactor support element" may refer to a plurality of (different) reactor support elements. Similarly, the term "support body" may refer to more than one support body. The reactor support element generally supports the (tubular) reactor and can prevent the reactor from collapsing. In certain embodiments, a plurality of tubing windings or turns are arranged around the tubing support element. In particular, the tubing can be wound in a spiral around (or within) the reactor support element.

[0046] The reactor support element may include a cylindrical support body. Such a cylinder can facilitate the winding of the pipe around the support element. In other embodiments, the support body includes an elongated body having a polygonal shape. The tubular reactor can be wound around the elongated body having a polygonal shape. In various embodiments, the elongated body having a polygonal shape (support body) can have rounded corners (see also above regarding polygons). In other embodiments, the pipe is loosely arranged around the corners to prevent pipe deformation and / or breakage.

[0047] In various embodiments, the support element, in particular the support body, may define a (coiled) tubular arrangement.

[0048] The plurality of light sources may in particular be configured for providing high intensity light source radiation.In the light source, the radiation may also be configured for irradiating (emitting) one or more of UV radiation, visible radiation and IR radiation.

[0049] The term "UV radiation" is known to those skilled in the art and relates to "ultraviolet radiation" or "ultraviolet emission" or "ultraviolet light", in particular having one or more wavelengths in the range of about 10 nm to 400 nm or 10 nm to 380 nm. In various embodiments, UV radiation may in particular have one or more wavelengths in the range of about 100 nm to 400 nm or 100 nm to 380 nm. Furthermore, the term "UV radiation" and similar terms may also refer to one or more of UVA radiation, UVB radiation, and UVC radiation. UVA radiation in particular refers to radiation having one or more wavelengths in the range of about 315 nm to 400 nm. UVB radiation in particular refers to radiation having one or more wavelengths in the range of about 280 nm to 315 nm. UVC radiation may also in particular have one or more wavelengths in the range of about 100 nm to 280 nm.

[0050] The terms "visible," "visible light," "visible emission," or "visible radiation," and similar terms refer to light having one or more wavelengths in the range of approximately 380 nm to 780 nm.

[0051] The term "IR radiation" particularly relates to "infrared radiation," "infrared emission," or "infrared light," particularly having one or more wavelengths in the range of 780 nm to 1 mm. Furthermore, the term "IR radiation" and similar terms may also refer to one or more of NIR radiation, SWIR radiation, MWIR radiation, LWIR radiation, and FIR radiation. NIR particularly relates to near-infrared radiation having one or more wavelengths in the range of approximately 750 nm to 1400 nm. SWIR particularly relates to short-wavelength infrared radiation having one or more wavelengths in the range of approximately 1400 nm to 3000 nm. MWIR may particularly relate to medium-wavelength infrared radiation having one or more wavelengths in the range of approximately 3000 nm to 8000 nm. LWIR may particularly relate to long-wavelength infrared radiation having one or more wavelengths in the range of approximately 8 μm to 15 μm. FIR may particularly relate to far-infrared radiation having one or more wavelengths in the range of approximately 15 μm to 1000 μm.

[0052] In various embodiments, (at least a portion of) the plurality of light sources comprises a light emitting diode (LED), in particular an array of light emitting diodes. The term "array" refers in particular to a plurality of (different) arrays. In other embodiments, (at least a portion of) the plurality of light sources comprises a chip-on-board (COB) light source. The term "COB" refers in particular to an LED chip in the form of a semiconductor chip that is neither packaged nor connected but is directly mounted on a substrate such as a printed circuit board. In various embodiments, the COB and / or LED may comprise a direct LED (with a dominant wavelength range, such as from UVC to IR wavelengths). In other embodiments, the COB and / or LED comprise one or more phosphor-converted LEDs. Using such a light source, high-intensity radiation (light) can be provided for each light source or each light source element (see below). In various embodiments, for example, the light source can provide 100 lumens to 25,000 lumens (visible light) per light source. In various embodiments, the light source can, for example, apply (consume) 0.5 (electrical) watts to 500 (electrical) watts per light source (input power).

[0053] Thus, in various embodiments, the plurality of light sources include chip-on-board (COB) light sources and / or light emitting diode (LED) arrays.

[0054] A plurality of light sources are configured to provide light source radiation to the fluid in the reactor during operation. In a specific embodiment, the light source arrangement is configured to correspond to the tubular arrangement. The light source arrangement can (also) have rotational symmetry. In various embodiments, the light source arrangement can define a circle, or for example an ellipse. In other embodiments, the light source arrangement can define a polygon. In other embodiments, the (coiled) tubular arrangement and the light source arrangement both define polygons, especially polygonal edges with mutually parallel configurations. In various embodiments, each polygon can include 3 to 16 polygonal edges, especially 4 to 10 polygonal edges (see also below). Therefore, in other embodiments, the tubular arrangement and the light source arrangement both define polygons, and the polygons have mutually parallel polygonal edges. Therefore, in various embodiments, each polygon can include 3 to 16 polygonal sides, especially 4 to 10 polygonal sides. In various embodiments, the polygonal sides (of the tubular arrangement and / or the light source arrangement) can have preferably at least 10 cm 2 , more preferably at least 50 cm 2 , most preferably at least 100 cm 2surface area (or face). In each embodiment, the face of tubular arrangement and light source arrangement is preferably arranged to be parallel. In multiple embodiments, these faces of tubular arrangement and light source arrangement are preferably arranged to be conformal. In each embodiment, the face of tubular arrangement and light source arrangement has (approximately) identical size and / or shape. For example, tubular arrangement can include N faces, and light source arrangement includes M faces. Preferably, N is in the range of 4 to 10, and M is in the range of 4 to 10. Preferably (adjacent M faces and N faces are parallel and / or conformally arranged). By using the above-mentioned embodiment, with regard to the relationship between the light output of light source and power input and the capture of light by reactants, operation can be performed under high efficiency. In each embodiment, the photoreactor assembly can be easily configured for the treatment type to be implemented, and for example, light source can be (easily) replaced by other light sources, such as, for changing the wavelength of light source radiation. In other specific embodiments, the heat generated by the light source can be easily dissipated, thereby allowing high energy input. If both the tubular arrangement and the light source arrangement define a polygon with mutually parallel sides (or faces), the tubular arrangement can better match the light source arrangement. This is especially true if solid-state light sources (arrays) such as LEDs are used, as these types of light sources (i.e., solid-state light sources (arrays)) are typically flat. Light from such a light source arrangement can be better coupled into / more efficiently used in the photochemical reaction.

[0055] The light source arrangement can in particular have a light arrangement axis which is arranged parallel to the tubular arrangement axis.

[0056] The plurality of light sources can be configured to enclose a tubular arrangement (and, as such, can all face in the direction of the tubular arrangement axis). In other embodiments, the plurality of light sources are enclosed by the tubular arrangement (and can all face away from the tubular arrangement axis). However, in other embodiments, a portion of the light sources enclose the tubular arrangement, while another portion is enclosed by the tubular arrangement. Thus, in various embodiments, at least a first subset of the plurality of light sources encloses the (coiled) tubular arrangement. Additionally or alternatively, at least a second subset of the plurality of light sources is enclosed by the (coiled) tubular arrangement.

[0057] In a particular embodiment, a first subset of the plurality of light sources encloses a (coiled) tubular arrangement defining an outer light source polygon, and in particular a second subset of the plurality of light sources is enclosed by the (coiled) tubular arrangement defining an inner light source polygon.

[0058] In certain embodiments, the photoreactor assembly further comprises a light escape surface arrangement comprising light escape surfaces of a plurality of light sources, in particular wherein each light escape surface is perpendicular to the optical axis of the respective light source. In other embodiments, the (coiled) tubular arrangement defines a first polygon, and the light escape surface arrangement defines a second polygon, in particular wherein each polygon edge of the first polygon is configured to be parallel to a corresponding polygon edge of the second polygon. In particular, the first polygon and the second polygon are (substantially) similar.

[0059] In yet other embodiments, the light escape surface arrangement defines (i) an inner second polygon enclosed by the first polygon and (ii) an outer second polygon enclosing the first polygon, and in particular, each polygonal edge of the first polygon is configured to be parallel to the corresponding polygonal edge of the inner second polygon and (configured to be parallel to) the corresponding polygonal edge of the outer second polygon.

[0060] During operation, multiple light sources can generate radiation. The light sources can also generate heat. The photoreactor assembly can, in particular, be configured to conduct / guide the heat generated by the light sources away from the light sources. In various embodiments, the photoreactor assembly includes one or more heat conducting elements configured to be in thermal contact with the one or more light sources.

[0061] In other embodiments, the light source can be composed of multiple light source elements, and in particular, the light source elements are configured to move / conduct heat away from the light source. In various embodiments, the light source elements can include one or more heat conducting elements that are configured to be in thermal contact with at least one light source in the light source composed of the light source elements.

[0062] Therefore, in various embodiments, the photoreactor assembly includes a plurality of light source elements, wherein each light source element includes one or more light sources of a plurality of light sources, and in particular, wherein each of the light source elements includes at least one heat-conducting element, and the at least one heat-conducting element is configured to be in thermal contact with the light source (composed of the light source element). The heat-conducting element can in particular at least partially include (or be made of) a heat-conducting material such as a heat-conducting material as described herein. In other embodiments, the light source element is a heat-conducting element.

[0063] The light source element may further comprise a reflective element located on a surface of the light source element that faces the reactor wall (in the direction of the reactor wall). The reflective element particularly reflects the radiation from the light source. The reflective element may comprise a (reflective) coating. In other embodiments, the surface of the light source element is reflective. The (surface) of the reflective element may, for example, comprise a metal that reflects the radiation from the light source. In various embodiments, the thermally conductive element comprises a reflective element. In other embodiments, the surface of the thermally conductive element is mostly reflective.

[0064] Additionally or alternatively, the photoreactor assembly may further comprise a wall enclosing the tubular reactor and the light source element, in particular wherein the wall (also) comprises a reflective element as described with respect to the light source element. The wall may, for example, comprise a reflective coating and / or a reflective surface facing the tubular reactor, wherein the reflective surface reflects the light source radiation.

[0065] In various embodiments, the number of edges of the polygon is equal to the (total) number of light source elements. However, in other embodiments, the number of edges may be equal to twice the (total) number of edges. For example, in embodiments in which the light source is configured to generate light source radiation in a single direction selected from a direction toward the axis of the tubular arrangement and a direction away from the axis of the tubular arrangement, the number of edges may be equal to the number of light source elements. In embodiments in which the light source is configured to generate light source radiation in a direction toward the axis of the tubular arrangement and in a direction away from the tubular arrangement, the number of edges multiplied by two may in particular be equal to the number of light source elements.

[0066] The light source element may in particular comprise a flat (reflective) surface. However, in other embodiments, the surface may be curved. The light source element may in particular be rectangular. In other embodiments, the light source elements are arranged at an angle to one another. In various embodiments, (at least a portion of) the light source elements are physically connected to one another, such as in a light source unit. However, in other embodiments, the light source elements are individual elements and, in particular when configured in a photoreactor assembly, together define a light source unit.

[0067] In certain embodiments, the light source elements (together) define a polygon having the same symmetry as a polygon defined by one or more of the tubular arrangement and the light source arrangement.

[0068] In certain embodiments, light source elements and / or light source units may be configured to be interchangeable with other light source elements / light source units, for example if light source radiation of another wavelength is desired (or, for example, a replacement light source).

[0069] Therefore, in other embodiments, the light reactor assembly further comprises a light source element receiving element, wherein the light source element receiving element is configured to removably accommodate the light source element. Similarly, the light reactor assembly (also) may comprise a light source unit receiving unit, wherein the light source unit receiving unit is configured to removably accommodate the light source unit.

[0070] As discussed above, during operation, heat can be generated by the light source, and heat can be provided to the reactor. In order to improve efficiency, at least the portion of the photoreactor assembly can be cooled. Herein, the term "cooling" can relate to passive cooling and / or active cooling. The photoreactor assembly (also) may include a cooling element (for active and / or passive cooling). In various embodiments, the cooling element may include (cooling) fluid transport channels. In other embodiments, the cooling element may (also) include a heat conducting element. The cooling element may especially be configured to cool the reactor and / or light source. Therefore, the cooling element may especially be configured to contact the heat of one or more light sources in the reactor and / or a plurality of light sources.

[0071] The term "(cooling) fluid transport channel" particularly relates to a channel / path configured in a photoreactor assembly that can accommodate a (cooling) fluid, particularly a fluid that can flow through the channel / path (such as by forced transport or spontaneously). The cooling fluid can be a gaseous cooling fluid, such as air. The cooling fluid can also be a (cooling) liquid. The cooling fluid can also be referred to as a "coolant." The cooling fluid can be water.

[0072] The terms “cooling element”, “fluid conveying channel” and “heat conducting element” may relate in particular to a plurality of cooling elements, fluid conveying channels and heat conducting elements, respectively.

[0073] Thus, in other embodiments, the photoreactor assembly includes one or more cooling elements, wherein the one or more cooling elements include one or more of the following: (i) one or more (cooling) fluid delivery channels and (ii) one or more thermally conductive elements, wherein the one or more cooling elements are in thermal contact with one or more of the following: (a) the reactor and (b) one or more of the light sources. In various embodiments, the one or more fluid delivery channels are configured in one or more of the thermally conductive elements.

[0074] In other embodiments, the tubular reactor and the light source element define one or more (cooling) fluid delivery channels between the tubular reactor and the light source element (the surface). In this embodiment, in particular, the fluid delivery channel width (d) can be limited by the minimum distance between the tubular reactor and the light source element. The width of the fluid delivery channel can generally be less than 4 cm, in particular less than 2 cm, such as less than 1 cm, such as equal to or less than 5 mm. The delivery channel width can be at least 0.2 mm, such as at least 0.5 mm, in particular at least 1 mm, or even at least 2 mm. In various embodiments, the fluid delivery channel width (d) is selected from the range of 0.2 mm to 40 mm, such as 0.5 mm to 20 mm, in particular 0.5 mm to 10 mm or 1 mm to 5 mm. In other embodiments, (see above) the support body may include one or more (cooling) fluid delivery channels. In this embodiment, in particular, the fluid delivery channel width (d) can be limited by the (inner) diameter or width of the channel. Thus, in various embodiments, the fluid delivery channel width may (also) be in the range of 0.5 cm to 10 cm, such as 5 cm to 10 cm or, for example, 0.5 cm to 2 cm.

[0075] In various embodiments, the heat-conducting element comprises a radiator, in particular comprising one or more fins (or ribs). In various embodiments, the reactor support element (in particular the reactor support body) comprises fins. Among other specific elements, the light source element may comprise a radiator. In various embodiments, the light source may be connected to (in particular mounted on) a radiator. The radiator may have a reflective surface that provides the surface of the light source element. Heat-conducting elements such as radiators may be passively cooled. However, in various embodiments, a cooling fluid may be forced along the heat-conducting element to actively cool it. Additionally or alternatively, a cooling fluid may be forced to flow through a cooling fluid delivery channel (to actively cool it) configured in the heat-conducting element.

[0076] In each embodiment, the photoreactor assembly also comprises an air conveying device, such as a fan. This air conveying device especially can be configured to face the heat conducting element. In each embodiment, the air conveying device is configured to carry air along (and / or by) one or more heat conducting elements in the heat conducting element (such as along (and / or by) one or more radiators in these radiators). The air conveying device can also be configured to carry air by one or more cooling fluid delivery channels in the cooling fluid delivery channel. The term "air conveying device" can especially relate to a plurality of air conveying devices.

[0077] In another embodiment, the photoreactor assembly further comprises a cooling system, which is configured to carry cooling fluids along one or more cooling elements in the one or more cooling elements. The cooling system can for example comprise an air delivery device (wherein cooling fluid comprises air). Additionally or alternatively, the cooling system can comprise a liquid delivery device, such as a pump configured to pump liquid (wherein cooling fluid comprises liquid). In various embodiments, the liquid delivery device is configured to provide liquid cooling fluids to one or more (cooling) fluid delivery channels in the (cooling) fluid delivery channel.

[0078] In another aspect, the present invention provides a method for treating a fluid using light source radiation. The method comprises, inter alia: (i) providing a photoreactor assembly as described herein; (ii) providing a fluid to be treated using light source radiation in the reactor; and (iii) (providing the light source radiation to the reactor and) irradiating the fluid using the light source radiation.

[0079] Irradiating the fluid with radiation from the light source may induce a photochemical reaction. In various embodiments, the (photochemical) reaction comprises a photocatalytic reaction. In various embodiments, the method further comprises providing a photocatalyst and / or a photosensitizer to the fluid before and / or during irradiating the fluid with radiation from the light source.

[0080] In various embodiments, the method comprises a batch process. In other embodiments, the method comprises a continuous process. Thus, in certain embodiments, the method comprises: conveying the fluid through the reactor while irradiating the fluid with radiation from a light source.

[0081] In other embodiments where the photoreactor assembly includes one or more cooling elements (as described herein), the method further comprises conveying a cooling fluid through and / or along the one or more cooling elements.

[0082] In yet other embodiments, the method includes, prior to irradiating the fluid with the light source radiation, selecting the light source radiation from one or more of UV radiation, visible radiation, and IR radiation. In particular, the light source radiation can be selected by selecting a plurality of light sources to generate the (selected) light source radiation. The light source radiation can also be selected based on the fluid to be treated (in particular, the (photosensitive) reactant and / or photocatalyst and / or photosensitizer in the fluid).

[0083] The terms "upstream" and "downstream" relate to the arrangement of items or features relative to the propagation of light from a light generating device (here in particular a light source), wherein, relative to a first position in a light beam from the light generating device, a second position in the light beam that is closer to the light generating device is "upstream" and a third position in the light beam that is further away from the light generating device is "downstream".

[0084] The term "light source" may refer to a semiconductor light-emitting device, such as a light-emitting diode (LED), a resonant cavity light-emitting diode (RCLED), a vertical cavity laser diode (VCSEL), an edge-emitting laser, or the like. The term "light source" may also refer to an organic light-emitting diode, such as a passive matrix organic light-emitting diode (PMOLED) or an active matrix organic light-emitting diode (AMOLED). In certain embodiments, the light source comprises a solid-state light source (such as an LED or a laser diode). In one embodiment, the light source comprises an LED (light-emitting diode). The term LED may also refer to a plurality of LEDs. Furthermore, in various embodiments, the term "light source" may also refer to a so-called chip-on-board (COB) light source. The term "COB" refers in particular to an LED chip in the form of a semiconductor chip that is neither packaged nor connected, but is directly mounted on a substrate such as a PCB and / or a heat sink. Thus, multiple semiconductor light sources may be configured on the same substrate. In various embodiments, a COB is a plurality of LED chips configured together as a single lighting module. The term "light source" may also refer to a plurality of (substantially identical (or different)) light sources, such as 2-2000 solid-state light sources. In various embodiments, the light source may include one or more micro-optical elements (micro-lens arrays) downstream of a single solid-state light source (such as an LED) or downstream of multiple solid-state light sources (i.e., for example, shared by multiple LEDs). In various embodiments, the light source may include an LED with on-chip optics. In various embodiments, the light source includes a single pixelated LED (with or without optics) (in various embodiments, providing on-chip beam steering).

[0085] In various embodiments, the phrases "different light sources" or "plurality of different light sources" and similar phrases may refer to multiple solid-state light sources selected from at least two different statistical groups. Similarly, in various embodiments, the phrases "same light source" or "plurality of the same light sources" and similar phrases may refer to multiple solid-state light sources selected from the same statistical group. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0086] Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts, and in which

[0087] Figures 1A to 2B Some embodiments of photoreactor assemblies are depicted;

[0088] Figure 3A 、 Figure 3B and Figure 4 Some other aspects of the photoreactor assembly are depicted;

[0089] Figure 5 Describes various aspects of the cooling system; and

[0090] Figure 6Other aspects of the photoreactor assembly are described.

[0091] The schematic diagrams are not necessarily drawn to scale. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0092] Figure 1A and Figure 1B Schematically depicts an embodiment of a photoreactor assembly 1. The photoreactor assembly 1 includes a reactor 30 for accommodating a fluid 100 to be treated using a light source radiation 11. The light source radiation 11 can be selected from the group consisting of UV radiation, visible radiation, and IR radiation. In various embodiments, the light source 10 can include a chip-on-board light source (COB) and / or a light-emitting diode (LED) array. The reactor 30 includes a reactor wall 35 that is at least partially transmissive to the light source radiation 11. The reactor wall 35 can define the reactor 30. In the embodiment shown, the reactor 30 includes a tubular reactor 130, in particular configured to be arranged in a tubular configuration 1130.

[0093] In an embodiment, the tubular arrangement 1130 is depicted as a coiled tubular arrangement 1131 (see also FIG. 2 , which shows a top view of the tubular reactor 130 configured in the coiled tubular arrangement 1131). The coiled tubular arrangement 1131 is schematically depicted by seven windings or turns 36 of the tubular reactor 130 (the turns continuing from the left-hand side to the right-hand side). FIG. 1 also illustrates that the tubular reactor 130 is coiled in a spiral manner.

[0094] The photoreactor assembly 1 further comprises a light source arrangement 1010 comprising a plurality of light sources 10 for generating light source radiation 11. The reactor wall 35 is in particular configured to be in a radiation receiving relationship with the plurality of light sources 10.

[0095] In particular, one or more of the tubular arrangement 1130 and the light source arrangement 1010 define a polygon 50. Figure 2A and Figure 2B Further described in Figure 2A In the embodiment of the invention, the light source arrangement 1010 defines a polygon 50, in particular a hexagon, and Figure 2B In the embodiment of FIG. 5 , both the light source arrangement 1010 and the tubular arrangement 1130 define a polygon 50 . Figure 2B The embodiment of FIG. 1 is an example of an embodiment in which both the tubular arrangement 1130 and the light source arrangement 1010 define polygons 50 having polygonal sides 59 arranged parallel to each other. The polygons 50 are hexagonal and each polygon 50 includes six polygonal sides 59.

[0096] exist Figure 1A In the embodiment shown, (all) the plurality of light sources 10 are arranged in a tubular arrangement 1130. Figure 1BIn the embodiment shown, (all) the plurality of light sources 10 are enclosed by the tubular arrangement 1130. However, in other embodiments, a first subset of the plurality of light sources 10 are enclosed by the tubular arrangement 1130, and a second subset of the plurality of light sources 10 are enclosed by the tubular arrangement 1130. Figure 3B 1 is shown very schematically in FIG, although the light source 10 is not shown in the figure. However, the light source radiation 11 is indicated.

[0097] The embodiment depicted in Figures 1 and 2 also includes a reactor support element 40 to support the reactor 30. The reactor support element 40 includes a support body 45, and for the four embodiments depicted, the support body 45 is rotationally symmetrical around the tubular reactor arrangement axis A1. In each embodiment, a portion of the tubular reactor 130 contacts the support body 45 and is in thermal contact with the support body 45. This configuration can facilitate heat dissipation from the tubular reactor 130 to the support body 45, especially if the support body 45 includes a heat conducting element 2 or is thermally connected to such a heat conducting element 2. The heat conducting element 2 can include a radiator, optionally, including fins. Such a radiator (heat conducting element 2) is, for example, schematically indicated in Figure 2 to be in thermal contact with the light source 10.

[0098] 1 and 2 also depict that the tubular arrangement axis A1 and the conduit axis A2 are arranged almost perpendicular to each other.

[0099] exist Figure 3A and Figure 3B In the drawings, some further aspects of an embodiment of the reactor assembly 1 are depicted. The drawings schematically depict a photoreactor assembly 1 comprising several light source elements 19. Figure 3A In FIG, the photoreactor assembly 1 includes six light source elements 19. Figure 3B In the embodiment, the photoreactor assembly 1 includes twelve light source elements 19. Each light source element 19 includes one or more light sources 10. The light source element 19 may also include at least one heat conducting element 2 configured to be in thermal contact with the light source 10 (e.g., Figure 2B ). The light source element 19 may further comprise a reflective element 1011 (reflective for the light source radiation 11 ) located at a surface 190 of the light source element 19 facing the reactor wall 35 .

[0100] exist Figure 3A In the embodiment of the invention, the light source 10 is enclosed by a tubular arrangement 1130. In this figure, the light source 10 is not shown, but it can be understood from the arrows depicting the light source radiation 11. In order to prevent the light source radiation 11 from escaping from the photoreactor assembly 1, Figure 3AThe embodiment (also) includes a wall 4 having a reflective element 1011, in particular a reflective surface 5 (facing the tubular reactor 130) that encloses the tubular reactor 130 and the light source 10. The reflective element 1011 / reflective surface 5 is particularly reflective with respect to the light source radiation 11. The reflective element 1010 / reflective surface 5 can reflect back any radiation that is not absorbed by the fluid. This can further improve the light uniformity across the fluid 100.

[0101] exist Figure 3B In an embodiment, a first subset of light sources 10 (as indicated by the arrows depicting light sources 11) encloses a tubular arrangement 1130, while a second subset of light sources 10 is enclosed by the tubular arrangement 1130. In an embodiment, the first subset of the plurality of light sources 10 defines outer light source polygons 50, 55, while the second subset of the plurality of light sources 10 defines inner light source polygons 50, 54. The tubular arrangement 1130 defines further polygons 50, 51. Furthermore, in this embodiment, both the tubular arrangement 1130 and the light source arrangement 1010 (including both subsets of light sources 10) define polygons 50, 51, 54, 55 having polygon sides 59 arranged parallel to one another.

[0102] The photoreactor assembly 1 may in particular comprise one or more cooling elements 95, for example, one or more fluid transport channels 7 and / or one or more heat conducting elements 2. Figure 3A and Figure 3B In the embodiment, the fluid transport channel 7 between the tubular reactor 130 and the light source element 19 is defined by the tubular reactor 130 and the light source element 19. Furthermore, the fluid transport channel 7 may also be defined between the wall 4 and the tubular reactor 130. Similar fluid transport channels 7 are depicted in the embodiments of Figures 1 and 2. The width d of the fluid transport channel may be, for example, in the range of 1 mm to 5 mm. However, in various embodiments, see, for example, Figure 2A , wherein the (straight) fluid transport channel 7 is (also) configured as (in particular as) a through opening in the support body 45, the width d of which may be greater than 5 cm. In other embodiments, the fluid channel 7 may be defined in any heat-conducting element 2, in particular in a heat-conducting element whose width d may be less than 5 cm and, for example, greater than 0.5 cm. For example, in various embodiments, the fluid transport channel 7 may be defined in the support body 45, starting from a first side of the body and ending on the same side of the body 45. The fluid transport channel 7 may be used for cooling. In Figures 1 to 3, the channels 7 are all in thermal contact with the reactor 30, and most of them are also in thermal contact with the light source 10.

[0103] Thus, the reactor support element 40 (and in particular the support body 45) can be, in particular, solid or hollow, and in particular include a cavity and / or fluid delivery channels 7. The reactor support element 40 (and in particular the support body 45) can also include a heat sink, in particular including fins. In various embodiments, the reactor support element 40 (and in particular the support body 45) is finned. Thus, the reactor support element 40 (and in particular the support body 45) can be configured to facilitate the flow of a cooling fluid 91 (e.g., air 92 and / or water 9 or another cooling liquid 93) through and / or along the reactor support element 40.

[0104] exist Figure 5 Also depicted are elements of a cooling system 90. The cooling system may comprise a cooling element 95. The cooling system 90 is in particular configured for conveying a cooling fluid 91 through and / or along one or more cooling elements 95, in particular the fluid conveying channels 7 and / or the heat-conducting elements 2. The cooling system may, for example, comprise an air conveying device for conveying a gaseous fluid, in particular air 92, through one or more of the fluid conveying channels 7 and along one or more heat-conducting elements 2. Additionally or alternatively, a liquid (cooling) fluid may be used, and the cooling system may comprise a pump for conveying the liquid cooling fluid. In Figure 5 In an embodiment, for example, the photoreactor assembly 1 includes an air delivery device, such as a fan, which is configured to deliver air along a heat-conducting element 2 (such as a heat sink of the light source element 19) that is thermally connected to the light source 10. Further, the pump can be arranged to pump the liquid cooling fluid through, for example, some of the fluid delivery channels 7. In this embodiment, air 92 is also delivered through one or more fluid delivery channels 7 via a fan arranged at the top of the photoreactor assembly 1.

[0105] In various embodiments, the light source element 19 is removably received in the photoreactor assembly 1. The photoreactor assembly 1 may, for example, include a light source element receiving element 80 configured to removably receive the light source element 19. Figure 4 1 and 2. The light source element 19 is depicted very schematically. In various embodiments, each individual light source element 19 can be removed individually. However, in other embodiments, (at least a portion of) the light source elements 19 together form a light source unit, and one or more light source units can be removably received in the light source element receiving element 80. Thus, the light source element receiving element 80 can also define a light source unit receiving unit (for removably receiving a light source unit).

[0106] exist Figure 6, aspects of another embodiment of a photoreactor assembly 1 are depicted. In this embodiment, the reactor wall 35 of the tubular reactor 130 actually includes an inner reactor wall 351 and an outer reactor wall 352, which together define the tubular reactor 130. Therefore, in various embodiments, the tubular reactor 32 may also have an inner wall 351 and an outer wall 352. This configuration is also referred to herein as a double-walled tubular reactor 32. Depending on the configuration of the light source arrangement 1010 (not depicted), the inner reactor wall 351, the outer reactor wall 352, or both walls 351, 352 are configured to at least partially transmit the light source radiation 11. In this embodiment, the tubular configuration defines a polygon 50 (a square). In this embodiment, the fluid 100 can flow in a channel arranged between the inner wall 351 and the outer wall 352. This channel is also referred to herein as a (square) annulus 137. As an alternative to the depicted embodiment, the tubular reactor 130 may also be defined by multiple parallel tubular reactors 32 (not depicted) that together define the reactor 30. The pipe axis A2 of the plurality of pipes 32 (and the pipe axis of the double-walled pipes 32) can also be arranged parallel to the tubular arrangement axis A1. However, in various embodiments, the plurality of pipes 32 in this embodiment can be arranged at an angle relative to the tubular arrangement axis A1. This angle can be an acute angle. Herein, the tubular arrangement 1130 of double-walled pipes 32, or the aforementioned (alternative) tubular arrangement including the plurality of pipes 32, is also referred to as a straight tubular arrangement 1132.

[0107] The photoreactor assembly 1 described herein can be used to treat a fluid 100 using radiation from a light source 11. During use, the fluid 100 is placed in a reactor 30 and irradiated with radiation from the light source 11. The method can include a batch process. However, the method can particularly include a continuous process. During the continuous process, the fluid 100 is conveyed through the reactor 30 while being irradiated with radiation from the light source 11. Simultaneously, a cooling fluid 91 can be conveyed through and / or along one or more cooling elements 95, such as Figure 5 Depicted schematically in.

[0108] Therefore, the present invention provides an embodiment of a reactor 30 with a light source 10, which can be easily replaced (e.g., when a specific reaction requires a specific wavelength range) and can be very efficient in terms of the light / radiation output of the light source to the power input and in terms of the capture of radiation by reactants. In various embodiments, the reactor assembly 1 includes a hexagonal enclosure formed by six or eight light source elements 19, which include heat sinks, each of which carries one or more COBs. The heat sink is particularly useful for cooling the light source 10 and maintaining the COB 10 at low temperatures (thereby achieving maximum efficiency).

[0109] In various embodiments, an array of COBs 10 (with or without phosphors) and / or LEDs 10 (not necessarily of the same type) is arranged on a heat sink that is large enough to keep the COBs 10 or LEDs 10 at low temperatures. For example, three to ten such heat sinks (configured as light source elements 19) are arranged in strips into the light source element receiving element 80 so that they form a polygonal structure / encapsulation. A fluid 100 containing a (photosensitive) reactant can flow through a tiny pipe 32 coiled around a core that includes a body support 45 having the same polygonal shape (in an embodiment, having a rounded edge to prevent damage to the pipe 32 while coiling according to the pipe diameter (taking the minimum bending radius of the pipe into account)). In various embodiments, the core and the pipe 32 can be placed in the enclosure from the top or bottom side. The coiled duct 32 extends in particular over the entire height of the enclosure, so that all light source radiation 11 emitted by the light source 10 can impinge on the coiled duct 32 and in particular no light source radiation 11 escapes from the top or bottom or impinges on other parts of the enclosure.

[0110] Optical simulations have shown that the hexagonal core and the hexagonal light source arrangement 1010 have a 10% improvement in efficiency compared to a hexagonal light source arrangement 1010 and a circular core with a diameter equal to the smallest dimension of the hexagon. In particular, efficiency can be improved when the core has the same polygonal shape as the enclosure. The increase in efficiency gradually decreases with increasing number of sides 59 of the polygonal shape, and for eight or more sides 59, the increase in efficiency is a few percent or less. In various embodiments, efficiency can also be improved by minimizing the distance between the tubular arrangement 1130 and the light source arrangement 1010. The heat sink with the LEDs 10 can be easily replaced, for example, to change the wavelength range.

[0111] The tubular reactor can be configured in a tubular arrangement. For example, the tubular arrangement can include a coiled tubular arrangement, wherein the tubular reactor is coiled in a spiral. Another example is that the tubular reactor can include an inner reactor wall and an outer reactor wall that together define the tubular reactor, wherein one or more of the inner reactor wall and the outer reactor wall are transmissive to radiation from the light source, and wherein the tubular arrangement includes a straight tubular arrangement.

[0112] In the embodiments described above, the expression "thermal contact" may (primarily) refer to conduction and / or convection. The expression "thermal contact" may refer to direct thermal contact and / or indirect thermal contact. Preferably, the thermal contact is at least or primarily via conduction, as it provides the best thermal management, i.e., cooling. Preferably, the thermal contact is direct thermal contact.

[0113] The term "plurality" means two or more.

[0114] The terms "substantially" or "approximately" and similar terms herein will be understood by those skilled in the art. The terms "substantially" or "approximately" may also include embodiments with "entirely," "completely," "all," and the like. Therefore, in various embodiments, the adjective "substantially" or "approximately" may also be removed. Where applicable, the terms "substantially" or "approximately" may also relate to 90% or higher, such as 95% or higher, in particular 99% or higher, even more in particular 99.5% or higher, including 100%.

[0115] The term "comprising" also includes embodiments wherein the term "comprising" means "consisting of.

[0116] The term "and / or" specifically relates to one or more of the items mentioned before and after "and / or". For example, the phrase "item 1 and / or item 2" and similar phrases may relate to one or more of item 1 and item 2. The term "comprising" may mean "consisting of" in one embodiment, but may also mean "containing at least the defined substances and optionally one or more further substances" in another embodiment.

[0117] Furthermore, the terms first, second, third, etc. in the description and claims are used to distinguish similar elements and not necessarily to describe a sequential order or chronological order. It should be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances, and that the embodiments of the invention described herein are capable of operation in other sequences than described or illustrated herein.

[0118] These devices, apparatuses or systems may be described herein during operation. It will be clear to those skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to methods of operation, or devices, apparatuses or systems in operation.

[0119] It should be noted that the above-mentioned embodiments illustrate rather than limit the invention, and that those skilled in the art will be able to design many alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

[0120] In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim.

[0121] Use of the verb "comprise" and its conjugations does not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those stated in a claim. Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the specification and claims, the words "comprises," "comprising," etc. should be interpreted in an inclusive sense rather than an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is, in the sense of "including but not limited to."

[0122] The article "a" or "an" preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements.

[0123] The invention can be implemented by means of hardware comprising several distinct elements and by means of a suitably programmed computer. In a device claim, an apparatus claim, or a system claim enumerating several means, several of these means may be embodied by the same item of hardware. The fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage.

[0124] The present invention also provides a control system that can control a device, apparatus, or system, or can perform the methods or processes described herein. Still further, the present invention provides a computer program product that, when functionally coupled to or included in a device, apparatus, or system, controls one or more controllable elements of such a device, apparatus, or system.

[0125] The present invention also applies to an apparatus, device or system comprising one or more of the characterizing features described in the specification and / or shown in the accompanying drawings. The present invention also relates to a method or process comprising one or more of the characterizing features described in the specification and / or shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0126] The various aspects discussed in this patent may be combined to provide additional advantages. Further, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the embodiments may be combined, and more than two embodiments may be combined. Still further, some of the features may form the basis of one or more divisional applications.

Claims

1. A photoreactor assembly (1) comprising a reactor (30), wherein the reactor (30) is configured for containing a fluid (100) to be treated using light source radiation (11), the light source radiation (11) being selected from one or more of UV radiation, visible radiation and IR radiation, wherein the reactor (30) comprises a reactor wall (35) that is transmissive to the light source radiation (11), wherein - the reactor (30) is a tubular reactor (130), and wherein the reactor wall (35) defines the tubular reactor (130); - the tubular reactor (130) is configured in a coiled tubular arrangement; - the photoreactor assembly (1) further comprising a light source arrangement (1010), the light source arrangement (1010) comprising a plurality of light sources (10) configured to generate the light source radiation (11), wherein the reactor wall (35) is configured in a radiation receiving relationship with the plurality of light sources (10); and - wherein the coiled tubular arrangement and the light source arrangement (1010) each define a polygon (50) having polygonal sides (59) arranged parallel to one another; - wherein the plurality of light sources (10) include chip-on-board (COB) light sources and / or light emitting diode (LED) arrays.

2. The photoreactor assembly (1) according to claim 1, wherein the tubular reactor (130) is wound in a spiral manner.

3. The photoreactor assembly (1) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the coiled tubular arrangement and the light source arrangement (1010) each define a polygon (50) having polygonal sides (59) arranged parallel to one another, and wherein the polygon (50) each comprises 4 to 10 polygonal sides (59).

4. The photoreactor assembly (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein at least a first subset of the plurality of light sources (10) encloses the coiled tubular arrangement.

5. The photoreactor assembly (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein at least a second subset of the plurality of light sources (10) is enclosed by the coiled tubular arrangement.

6. A photoreactor assembly (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the photoreactor assembly (1) includes one or more cooling elements (95), wherein the one or more cooling elements (95) include one or more of the following: (i) one or more fluid transport channels (7) and (ii) one or more thermally conductive elements (2), wherein the one or more cooling elements (95) are in thermal contact with one or more of the following: (a) the reactor (30) and (b) one or more light sources of the light source (10).

7. The photoreactor assembly (1) according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a reactor support element (40), wherein the reactor support element (40) is configured to support the reactor (30), wherein the reactor support element (40) comprises a support body (45), wherein the support body (45) is rotationally symmetric, wherein at least a portion of the tubular reactor (130) is configured to be in thermal contact with the support body (45), and wherein one or more thermally conductive elements (2) are constituted by the support body (45) or are in thermal contact with the support body (45).

8. A photoreactor assembly (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the photoreactor assembly (1) comprises a plurality of light source elements (19); wherein each light source element (19) comprises one or more light sources (10) of the plurality of light sources (10), wherein each of the light source elements (19) comprises at least one heat conducting element (2) configured to be in heat conducting contact with the light source (10), wherein the light source element (19) comprises a reflective element (1011) located at a surface (190) of the light source element (19) facing the reactor wall (35), wherein the reflective element (1011) reflects the light source radiation (11), wherein the tubular reactor (130) and the light source element (19) define one or more fluid transport channels (7) between the tubular reactor (130) and the light source element (19), wherein a minimum distance between the tubular reactor (130) and the light source element (19) defines a fluid transport channel width (d), wherein the fluid transport channel width (d) is selected from the range of 1 mm to 5 mm.

9. The photoreactor assembly (1) according to claim 8, wherein the photoreactor assembly (1) further comprises a light source element receiving element (80), wherein the light source element receiving element (80) is configured to removably accommodate the light source element (19).

10. The photoreactor assembly (1) according to claim 9, wherein the photoreactor assembly (1) further comprises a wall (4) enclosing the tubular reactor (130) and the light source element (19), wherein the wall (4) has a reflective surface (5) facing the tubular reactor (130), wherein the reflective surface (5) reflects the light source radiation (11).

11. A photoreactor assembly (1) according to claim 1, 2 or 9, wherein the photoreactor assembly (1) includes one or more cooling elements (95) according to claim 6, wherein the photoreactor assembly (1) further includes a cooling system (90), the cooling system (90) being configured to convey a cooling fluid (91) through and / or along one or more of the one or more cooling elements (95), wherein (i) the cooling system (90) includes an air conveying device, and / or (ii) the cooling system (90) includes a pump configured to pump a liquid (93).

12. A method of treating a fluid (100) using radiation from a light source (11), wherein the method comprises: - providing a photoreactor assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims; - providing a fluid (100) to be treated using radiation from a light source (11) in a reactor (30); and - irradiating the fluid (100) with radiation (11) from the light source.

13. The method of claim 12, comprising conveying the fluid (100) through the reactor (30) while irradiating the fluid (100) with radiation (11) from the light source; and conveying a cooling fluid (91) through and / or along one or more cooling elements (95) according to claim 6.

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