Devices, systems and methods of heating with electromagnetic waves

Abstract

Devices, systems and methods of heating with electromagnetic waves

Description

Devices, systems and methods of heating with electromagnetic waves Cross-reference to related statements This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 969,935 / 62 filed February 4, 2020, which is incorporated herein by reference. Field of invention This declaration concerns devices, systems and methods of heating with electromagnetic waves, including microwaves. Context Microwave energy can be used to process or heat a variety of materials in several industries, including the food and beverage industry and various chemical industries. For example, microwaves have been tested and used in plasma processes (e.g., powder processing, chemical vapor deposition, surface modification, etc.), chemical processing and synthesis, and waste material remediation. Although significant efforts have been made to expand the industrial use of microwave energy, little progress has been made. Disadvantages commonly associated with the deployment of microwave energy include: (i) difficulties encountered when designing a device or process, (ii) the need for expensive equipment, (iii) limited number of uses, (iv) changes in dielectric properties that can occur with increasing temperature, or (v) a combination of these. There is a need for devices, systems, and methods for heating with microwaves that overcome one or more of these disadvantages, including devices and methods for producing a heated fluid that may be used as a heat source, for example, in subsequent processes. A brief summary Provided herein are apparatuses, systems, and methods that overcome one or more of the above disadvantages, including methods for heating that do not rely solely on the dielectric properties of the fluid. Accordingly, embodiments of the methods provided herein are not material-specific and are applicable to a wide range of fluids, as described herein, including organic fluids, mineral fluids, aqueous fluids, etc., each of which may be polar or non-polar. The apparatuses and methods provided herein may include or rely on a fixed bed system, respectively, in which a flow of fluid is contacted with an absorbent material irradiated with electromagnetic waves, such as microwaves. The electromagnetic waves may be converted to heat by the absorbent material, thereby heating the fluid in a process that may be continuous. A fluid may be passed through the fixed bed system once, twice, or more times until the desired temperature of the fluid is reached.The devices and systems herein may also allow a pressure to be applied to at least a portion of the devices or systems, such as a pressure greater than the critical pressure of a fluid, which may maintain all or at least a portion of the fluid within the liquid phase and / or supercritical phase. In one aspect, devices are provided herein. In some embodiments, the devices include a tube; and an applicator, wherein (i) a first end of the tube is fixedly mounted or spring-mounted on the applicator, and (ii) at least a portion of the tube is disposed in the applicator. In some embodiments, the devices include a tube; an absorbent material is disposed in the tube; and an applicator, wherein (i) one end of the tube is fixedly mounted or spring-mounted on the applicator, and (ii) at least a portion of the tube and at least a portion of the absorbent material in the tube are disposed in the applicator. In some embodiments, a second end of the tube is fixedly mounted or spring-mounted on the applicator. The tube may include an inlet, an outlet, or an inlet and an outlet. These devices may also include one or more microwave generators, wherein the one or more microwave generators are positioned to deliver a plurality of microwaves to an applicator to irradiate at least a portion of the absorbent material with a plurality of microwaves. In some embodiments, the devices include a housing that defines an internal volume to receive adsorbent particles. At least one retaining device is disposed in or adjacent to the internal volume and configured to retain adsorbent particles in the internal volume while allowing fluid to exit the internal volume; and an electromagnetic wave propagation structure configured to introduce electromagnetic waves into the internal volume to radiate adsorbent particles contained in the internal volume. The electromagnetic wave propagation structure may include an electromagnetic wave transparent portion of the housing through which electromagnetic waves can pass from outside the housing into the internal volume. The housing may include a tubular portion formed of an electromagnetic wave transparent material that forms the electromagnetic wave transparent portion of the housing. The device may include an applicator for directing electromagnetic waves through the electromagnetic wave transparent portion and into the internal volume. In some embodiments, the electromagnetic wave emitting structure is at least partially contained within the enclosure. In another aspect, systems are provided herein. In some embodiments, the systems include a fluid source into which fluid is dispensed, wherein the fluid source is in fluid communication with the tube, and a pump configured to provide (i) fluid to the tube and / or (ii) pressure within the tube, wherein the pump is in fluid communication with the device and the fluid source. In another aspect, methods of heating a material, such as a fluid, are provided. In some embodiments, the methods include contacting a fluid with a heated absorbent material, such as absorbent particles, to heat the fluid at a rate of at least 100 °C / min, at least 200 °C / min, at least 300 °C / min, at least 400 °C / min, or at least 500 °C / min. In some embodiments, the methods include providing an apparatus or system as described herein; expelling fluid at the inlet of a tube at a flow rate; introducing a plurality of electromagnetic waves into the applicator to irradiate at least a portion of the absorbent material with a plurality of electromagnetic waves to generate heat while the fluid is in the tube to produce a heated fluid; and collecting the heated fluid at the outlet of the tube. In some embodiments, the methods also include (i) expelling at least a portion of the heated fluid at the inlet of the tube; (ii) introducing a plurality of electromagnetic waves into the applicator to irradiate at least a portion of the absorbent material with a plurality of electromagnetic waves to generate heat while the heated fluid is in the tube to produce more heated fluid; and (iii) collecting more heated fluid at the outlet of the tube. In some embodiments, the methods include providing an apparatus or system as described herein; arranging a material in proximity to the tube; introducing a plurality of electromagnetic waves into the applicator to irradiate at least a portion of the absorbent material with the plurality of electromagnetic waves to generate heat while the material is in proximity to the tube to produce a heated material. The material may include a fluid, a solid, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, arranging the material in proximity to the tube includes contacting the material with the tube. Additional aspects are set forth in part in the description that follows, and some of the description is obvious from, or may be learned by practice of the aspects described herein. The advantages described herein may be realized and attained by the use of the elements and compositions particularly pointed out in the appended claims. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are for purposes of example and illustration only and are not limiting. Brief description of the maps Figure 1A shows a side view of an embodiment of a tube. Figure 1B shows an end view of an embodiment of a tube. Figure 1C depicts an end view of an embodiment of a tube. Figure 1D shows a cross-sectional view of the tube in Figure 1A. Figure 1E shows a cross-sectional view of the tube in Figure 1A. Figure 1F shows an illustration of a tube. Figure 1G depicts an illustration of a tube with a monolithic structure. Figure 1H depicts an end view of an embodiment of a tube. Figure 1I depicts an illustration of a tube. Figure 1J shows a possible cross-sectional view of the pipe in Figure 1I. Figure 1K shows a possible cross-sectional view of the tube from Figure 1I. Figure 2A depicts an embodiment of a microwave jammer. Figure 2B depicts an embodiment of a microwave jammer. Figure 2C depicts an embodiment of a microwave jammer. Figure 2D depicts a visualization of a microwave jammer. Figure 3A shows a side view of an embodiment of an applicator. Figure 3B shows a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of an applicator. Figure 4A shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a modular actuator unit. Figure 4B shows a cross-sectional view of the modular actuator unit of Figure 4B. Figure 4C and Figure 4D depict side views of an embodiment of an applicator that includes an embodiment of modular applicator units. Fig. 5A shows an embodiment of a head unit. Figure 5B depicts a front view of an embodiment of a main unit. Figure 5C shows a cross-sectional view of the main unit of Figure 5B. Figure 5D depicts a side view of an embodiment of a main unit. Figure 5E shows a side view of the main unit of Figure 5D. Figure 6A shows a side view of an embodiment of a device. Figure 6B shows a side view of an embodiment of a device. Figure 6C depicts an end view of an embodiment of a device. Figure 7 depicts an embodiment of a device that includes an embodiment of a main unit capable of being permanently installed. Figure 8 depicts an embodiment of a device that includes an embodiment of a main unit capable of being permanently installed. Figure 9A depicts an embodiment of a device that includes an embodiment of a main unit with fixed installation capability. Figure 9B depicts an embodiment of a device that includes an embodiment of a main unit capable of being permanently mounted and an embodiment of a spacer block. Figure 10 depicts an embodiment of a device that includes an embodiment of a spring-mounted headunit. Figure 11 depicts a visualization of a system. Fig. 12A shows an embodiment of an applicator and an embodiment of a tube having a first end and a second end mounted to the applicator. Figure 12B shows an embodiment of an applicator and an embodiment of a tube having a first end and a second end mounted to the applicator. Figure 12C depicts an embodiment of an applicator and an embodiment of a tube with a first end mounted on the applicator. Figure 12D depicts an embodiment of an applicator and an embodiment of a tube with a first end mounted on the applicator. Figure 12E shows an embodiment of an applicator and an embodiment of a tube having a first end mounted to the applicator. Figure 12F shows a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the applicator shown in Figure 12A. Figure 12G depicts an embodiment of a tube positioned in an embodiment of an orifice defined by an applicator. Figure 12H shows an embodiment of a tube positioned in an embodiment of an orifice defined by an applicator. Figure 12I depicts an embodiment of a tube positioned in an embodiment of an orifice defined by an applicator. Description and description with details Provided herein are devices, systems, and methods for heating a fluid with electromagnetic energy, such as microwave energy. The devices include a tube in which an absorbent material is placed, and the tube may be at least partially contained within an applicator. Chambers / tubes The devices herein may include a chamber. The chamber may define an internal volume configured to receive an absorbent material, such as particles of an absorbent material. The chamber may have an inlet, an outlet, or an inlet and outlet. The inlet may be a fluid inlet for receiving fluid into the internal volume, and the outlet may be a fluid outlet for discharging fluid from the internal volume. A device may include one chamber (e.g., tube) or more than one (e.g., two) chambers (e.g., tubes). If a tube is described herein as a feature, then such a feature may be a feature of a chamber. Conversely, if a chamber is described herein as a feature, such a feature may be a feature of a tube. The chamber may be a tube. As used herein, the term "tube" refers to a chamber that is (i) elongated (e.g., having a length:width ratio of at least 1.1:1, at least 1.5:1, or at least 2:1) or includes an elongated section, (ii) defines an internal volume that at any point has a non-polygonal cross-sectional shape (e.g., circular, elliptical, etc.), or (iii) is a combination thereof. The inner container of a container, such as a pipe, when there are inlets and outlets, may be in fluid communication with the inlets and outlets. A container, such as a pipe, may be (i) straight, curved (e.g., having one or more coils), bent, or a combination thereof, (ii) of any external or internal cross-sectional shape (e.g., polygonal, non-polygonal, etc.) or area, or (iii) of external or internal dimensions. "Internal cross-sectional shape" and "internal dimensions" may refer to the cross-sectional shape, dimensions, and / or volumetric capacity of the inner container. "External or internal dimensions" are the external or internal diameters, respectively, when the pipe is substantially cylindrical or the inner container has a circular cross-sectional shape. A container, such as a tube, may have any external dimensions and any internal dimensions. Since the difference between the external dimensions and the internal dimensions determines the thickness of the container wall, the external dimensions and the internal dimensions may be selected such that the container wall can (i) withstand one or more of the parameters described herein, such as pressure; (ii) allow an absorbent material to be effectively or to a desired extent irradiated with microwaves (such as microwaves of a specific frequency and / or wavelength), (iii) retain at least a portion of an absorbent material at a desired location, or (iv) a combination thereof. A chamber, such as a tube, may have an outer dimension of about 5 mm to about 3 m, about 10 mm to about 3 m, about 20 mm to about 3 m, about 50 mm to about 3 m, about 100 mm to about 3 m, about 250 mm to about 3 m, about 500 mm to about 3 m, about 1 m to about 3 m, or about 2 m to about 3 m, and an inner dimension may be selected to provide a desired wall thickness of a chamber (e.g., tube). In some embodiments, the tube, or at least a portion thereof, is substantially cylindrical and has an internal reservoir with a circular cross-sectional shape. As used herein, the term "substantially cylindrical" refers to an object or portion thereof having a circular outer cross-sectional shape, wherein the smallest outer diameter of the object at any point along its length is less than its largest outer diameter at any point along its length by more than 20% (e.g., 100 and at least 80), 15% (e.g., 100 and at least 85), 10% (e.g., 100 and at least 90), 5% (e.g., 100 and 95), or 1% (e.g., 100 and at least 99). As used herein, the term "substantially circular" refers to a shape having a smallest diameter (e.g., outer diameter of the tube, inner diameter of the inner container) that is less than its largest diameter (e.g., outer diameter of the tube, inner diameter of the inner container) but not more than 20% (e.g., 10 and at least 8), 15% (e.g., 10 and at least 8.5), 10% (e.g., 10 and at least 9), 5% (e.g., 10 and at least 9.5), or 1% (e.g., 10 and at least 9.9). In some embodiments, a portion of a housing, such as a tube, formed from an electromagnetically transparent material is substantially cylindrical and has an outer diameter of about 3 mm to about 200 mm and an inner diameter of about 2 mm to about 150 mm. In some embodiments, a portion of a housing, such as a tube, formed from an electromagnetically transparent material is substantially cylindrical and has an outer diameter of about 3 mm to about 150 mm and an inner diameter of about 2 mm to about 100 mm. In some embodiments, a portion of a housing, such as a tube, formed from an electromagnetically transparent material is substantially cylindrical and has an outer diameter of about 3 mm to about 75 mm and an inner diameter of about 2 mm to about 60 mm. In some embodiments, a portion of a housing, such as a tube, formed from an electromagnetically transparent material is substantially cylindrical and has an outer diameter of about 15 mm to about 75 mm and an inner diameter of about 10 mm to about 60 mm. In some embodiments, a portion of a housing, such as a tube, formed from an electromagnetically transparent material is substantially cylindrical and has an outer diameter of about 45 mm to about 60 mm and an inner diameter of about 30 mm to about 44 mm. In some embodiments, a portion of a chamber, such as a tube, formed of an electromagnetically transparent material is substantially cylindrical and has an outer diameter of about 50 mm to about 54 mm and an inner diameter of about 40 mm to about 44 mm. However, other dimensions are contemplated, as devices provided herein, including chambers (e.g., tubes), may be scaled to accommodate any fluid flow. For example, a portion of a housing, such as a tube, formed of an electromagnetically transparent material may be substantially cylindrical and have an outer diameter of about 0.5 m to about 3 m, about 1 m to about 3 m, or about 2 m to about 3 m, and an inner diameter of about 0.4 m to about 2.9 m, about 0.9 m to about 2.9 m, or about 1.9 m to about 2.9 m. A chamber (e.g., tube) may be a pressurized chamber. A "pressure chamber" refers to a chamber configured to withstand a pressure of at least 1 bar, at least 5 bar, at least 10 bar, at least 15 bar, at least 20 bar, or at least 25 bar. The inlet and outlet, if present, may comprise a common opening or two openings of any size and at any location that allow fluid to enter and exit a housing (e.g., a pipe). For example, when the housing is a pipe, the pipe may have an inlet located at a first end or a second end of the pipe, and a pipe may have an outlet located at a second end or the first end of the pipe, respectively. Alternatively, a pipe may have an inlet and an outlet located at a first end of a pipe, or an inlet and an outlet located at a second end of a pipe. As used herein, the terms "first end," "at a first end," "second end," "at a second end," and the like refer to regions that begin at one end of a housing, such as a pipe, and extend less than or equal to 50% of the length of the housing (e.g., pipe) toward the opposite end of the housing (e.g., pipe). A housing, such as a tube, may be positioned in any orientation as found in the devices and systems described herein, or when used in the methods described herein. For example, a shelf housing, such as a tube, may be positioned such that a longitudinal axis of the housing (e.g., tube) is parallel (0 degrees) to a surface (e.g., ground, floor, ceiling, wall, etc.) that supports a device. As another example, a housing (e.g., tube) may be positioned such that its longitudinal axis is perpendicular (90 degrees) to a surface (e.g., ground, floor, ceiling, wall, etc.) that supports a device. In some embodiments, a housing (e.g., tube) is positioned at any angle from 0 to 90 degrees to a surface (e.g., ground, floor, ceiling, wall, etc.) that supports a device. For example, the angle between a longitudinal axis of a housing (e.g., pipe) and a surface (e.g., ground, floor, ceiling, wall, etc.) that supports the device may be 0 to 90 degrees, 10 to 90 degrees, 20 to 90 degrees, 30 to 90 degrees, 40 to 90 degrees, 50 to 90 degrees, 60 to 90 degrees, 70 to 90 degrees, or 80 to 90 degrees. Thus, when a housing (e.g., pipe) includes an inlet and an outlet, the inlet and outlet of the housing may be located at the same or different heights relative to the surface (e.g., ground, floor, ceiling, etc.) that supports the device. For example, an inlet of a pipe may be located closer to a supporting surface than the outlet of the housing, thereby allowing the housing (e.g., pipe) to operate in an "upflow" mode. Alternatively, the outlet of a chamber (e.g., tube) may be located closer to a retaining surface than the inlet of the chamber (e.g., tube), thereby allowing the chamber (e.g., tube) to operate in a "downflow" mode. A chamber (e.g., tube) may be any length, e.g., the distance in a straight line from the end point of the first end or, if present, the first cap to the second end or, if present, the second cap of the chamber (e.g., tube). For example, a chamber (e.g., tube) may have a length of about 0.1 m to about 5 m, about 0.1 m to about 4 m, about 0.1 m to about 3 m, about 0.5 m to about 3 m, about 0.5 m to about 2 m, about 0.5 m to about 1.5 m, or about 1 m to about 1.5 m. However, other lengths are contemplated, as the devices provided herein, including the chambers, may be scaled to accommodate any fluid flow. A chamber (e.g., tube) may include (e.g., consist of) any material that allows an absorbent material in the chamber to be irradiated with electromagnetic waves, such as microwaves. In some embodiments, a chamber is comprised, at least in part, of one or more materials that include an electromagnetically transparent material. As used herein, the term "electromagnetically transparent material" refers to a material that, when irradiated with one or more types of electromagnetic waves, such as those described herein, for a sufficient period of time increases the temperature of 1 liter of water (initially at ambient temperature) by at least 5% while remaining substantially unheated (i.e., a temperature increase of less than or equal to 5%). In other words, the electromagnetically transparent material is transparent to one or more types of electromagnetic waves selected for use, and not necessarily to all electromagnetic waves. In some embodiments, a container (e.g., tube) is formed, at least in part, of one or more materials that include a microwave transparent material. As used herein, the term "microwave transparent material" generally refers to a low-loss dielectric material that, when irradiated with microwaves for a sufficient period of time, increases the temperature of 1 liter of water (initially at ambient temperature) by at least 5% without remaining substantially unheated (i.e., a temperature increase of less than or equal to 5%). An electromagnetically transparent material, such as a microwave transparent material, may be selected from a ceramic, a polymer, a glass, a fiberglass, an inorganic composition (such as a mineral), or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the inorganic composition includes fused silica, which may be commonly known as quartz. In some embodiments, the electromagnetic wave transparent material, such as microwave transparent material, comprises silicon nitride.In some embodiments, the electromagnetically transparent material, such as a microwave transparent material, comprises a ceramic. In some embodiments, the ceramic comprises silicon, aluminum, nitrogen, and oxygen, which may be referred to as a SiAlON ceramic. In some embodiments, the ceramic comprises alumina. The alumina may be a commercially available alumina which may contain up to 10% by weight, up to 5% by weight, or up to 1% by weight, of impurities such as silica, calcium, magnesium, iron oxide, sodium oxide, titania, chromium oxide, potassium oxide, boron oxide, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the alumina is 99.8% alumina (McDaniel Advanced Ceramic Technologies, Pennsylvania, USA). A housing (e.g., a tube) may be formed from one or more materials. For example, at least a portion of the tube that is placed in an applicator may be formed from one or more electromagnetically transparent materials, while one or more other materials may be used to form the remainder of the housing. For example, a housing may be formed from a ceramic and a metal. In some embodiments, the housing (e.g., tube) is a monolithic structure formed from one or more electromagnetically transparent materials. As used herein, the term "monolithic structure" refers to a structure formed from a single piece of material (e.g., ceramic, metal, etc.). For example, a housing having a monolithic structure may be a tube comprising a single tubular piece formed entirely of ceramic. The monolithic ceramic structure may include an inlet and an outlet at a first end and a second end. In some embodiments, a monolithic structure includes one or more structural features (e.g., recesses, grooves, protrusions, flanges, etc.) for receiving another portion of the devices provided herein, such as a clamp or another portion of the main unit. However, a monolithic structure may lack one or more structural features configured to accommodate another portion of the devices provided herein. In some embodiments, the housing (e.g., tube) includes a first cap disposed at a first end of the housing (e.g., tube), a second cap disposed at a second end of the housing (e.g., tube), or a first cap and a second cap disposed at the first and second ends of the housing (e.g., tube), respectively. In some embodiments, the inlet to the housing (e.g., tube) is provided by the first cap. In some embodiments, the outlet to the housing (e.g., tube) is provided by the second cap. For example, the first cap and / or the second cap may define an orifice that allows fluid to enter or exit an internal reservoir of a housing (e.g., tube). The first cap and / or the second cap may be formed from any material. In some embodiments, the first cap and / or the second cap is formed from a material that has a coefficient of thermal expansion that is the same or similar (e.g., within 10%) to the coefficient of thermal expansion of a material that is transparent to electromagnetic waves, such as a microwave transparent material, of a housing (e.g., a tube). In some embodiments, the first cap and / or the second cap is formed from a metal. The metal may be an alloy, such as an alloy including iron, cobalt, and nickel (e.g., a KOVAR® alloy). In some embodiments, the first cap and / or the second cap comprises a metal, a portion of the tube comprises a ceramic, and the first cap, the second cap, or both the first cap and the second cap are connected together in any manner. Including a manner that creates a seal between the tube and the first cap, the second cap, or both the first cap and the second cap. For example, a housing (e.g., tube) may be attached to a first cap, a second cap, or a first cap and a second cap by (i) a ceramic-to-metal solder, (ii) an adhesive, (iii) attached to a threaded end of a tube in the first cap and / or the second cap, which may also be threaded, or (iv) a combination thereof. The soldering may result in a seal that may be sufficient to withstand one or more parameters of the methods described herein, such as pressure. In some embodiments, a portion of the housing (e.g., tube) comprises alumina, and the first cap, the second cap, or both the first and second caps comprise a KOVAR® alloy. The KOVAR® alloy may be attached to ceramics such as alumina by (i) a ceramic-to-metal solder, (ii) a threading onto one or both of the ceramic and the KOVAR® alloy, or (iii) a combination thereof. The adhesive may be a ceramic adhesive, such as those commercially available from Sauereisen, Inc. (PA, USA). The first and / or second caps may generally have any shape.For example, the first cap and / or the second cap may have a feature (e.g., a recess, groove, protrusion, flange, etc.) that is related to another part of the housing (e.g., a tube), system, or device. In some embodiments, a first cap and / or the second cap includes one or more features (e.g., a recess, groove, protrusion, flange, etc. of any polygonal or non-polygonal shape), which may be used by the first cap and / or the second cap to accommodate a clip or other device that may be used as or as part of a seal as described herein, such as sealing between the first and / or second cap to another part (e.g., a main unit) of the devices or systems herein. An embodiment of a tube is shown in FIG. 1A (side view), FIG. 1B (end view), and FIG. 1C (end view). The tube 100 of FIG. 1A is generally cylindrical and has a first end 101 and a second end 102. The tube 100 includes a middle section 110 formed of a microwave transparent material, a first cap 120 at the first end 101, and a second cap 130 at the second end 102. As shown in FIG. 1B, the first end 101 of the tube 100 has an inlet 121 that provides a first cap 120. As shown in FIG. 1C, the second end 102 of the tube 100 has an outlet 131 that provides a second cap 130. Although the inlet 121 of FIG. 1B and the outlet 131 of FIG. 1C are centered in the first and second caps 120 and 130, respectively, other embodiments are contemplated, such as embodiments in which at least one of the inlet 121 and the outlet 131 is not centered. Another embodiment of a tube is shown in Figure 1F (side view). The tube 160 of Figure 1F is generally cylindrical and has a first end 161 and a second end 162. The tube 160 includes a middle section 163 formed of a microwave transparent material, a first cap 164 at the first end 161 and a second cap 165 at the second end 162. The first cap 164 and the second cap 165 include flanges (166, 167). The flange (166, 167) may accommodate a clamp or other device. The end views of the tube 160 of FIG. 1F are the same as those shown in FIG. 1B and FIG. 1C, in that the first end 161 of the tube 160 has an inlet provided by a first cap 164 and the second end 162 of the tube 160 has an outlet provided by a second cap 165. In some embodiments, one or both of the first cap 164 and the second cap 165 may include a flange that is non-circular in shape, such as a square or rectangular flange, and such embodiments have different end views than those shown in FIG. 1B and FIG. 1C. However, another embodiment of a tube is shown in FIG. 1G (side view) and FIG. 1H (end view). The tube 170 of FIG. 1G is generally cylindrical and has a first end 171 and a second end 172. The integral structure includes a flange (173, 174) at the first end 171 and the second end 172. The flanges (173, 174) may accommodate a clamp or other device. An end view of the tube 170 of FIG. 1G is provided in FIG. 1H, showing the flange 173 and the inlet 175. In some embodiments (not shown), the inlet 175 is absent. The outer dimensions of a housing (e.g., tube) may be selected to match the dimensions of an applicator. For example, an applicator may include a structure defining one or more openings in which a tube is received. The housing (e.g., tube) may have an outer dimension that allows the housing (e.g., tube) to contact at least a portion of one or more openings of the applicator. The housing (e.g., tube) may have an outer dimension about 0.1 mm to about 10 mm, about 0.1 mm to about 5 mm, about 2 mm to about 4 mm, or about 3 mm to about 3.5 mm less than the corresponding dimensions of the applicator opening. An applicator may include one or more chambers defined by walls, where each of the walls defines an opening into which a tube is placed, and a relatively small difference between the outer dimension of the tube and the dimension of the opening may reduce or eliminate microwave leakage. A housing (e.g., tube) may also include a microwave disruptor. As used herein, the term "microwave disruptor" refers to a device configured to reduce or eliminate the ability of microwaves to heat at least a portion of one or more components of a device. For example, a microwave disruptor may be configured to disrupt the resonance of microwaves. In some embodiments, a microwave disruptor is disposed within a housing (e.g., a tube). A microwave disruptor may be mounted in any manner on any portion of the housing (e.g., a tube). For example, a microwave disruptor may be fixedly mounted to any portion of a housing (e.g., a tube). In some embodiments, a microwave disruptor is disposed at a first end of a housing (e.g., a tube), an inlet of a housing (e.g., a tube), a second end of a housing (e.g., a tube), an outlet of a housing (e.g., a tube), or a combination thereof. Disposing a microwave disruptor at a first end of a housing (e.g., a tube) and / or an inlet of a housing (e.g., a tube) at the first end of which a first cap is disposed may reduce or eliminate heating of the first cap by microwaves.Placing a microwave disruptor at the second end of the chamber (e.g., tube) and / or the outlet of a chamber (e.g., tube) having a second chamber at the second end may reduce or eliminate heating of the second cap by microwaves. As used herein, the terms "fixedly mounted," "fixedly connected," and the like describe a bonded or secured connection that is configured inelastically, including a connection that (i) is configured to be permanent (e.g., two objects are welded together, or an object, once formed, includes two features, such as a second cap that includes a microwave jammer), and / or (ii) includes one or more fasteners or features that (a) are not removable by hand (e.g., a threaded fastener that is tightened with a tool, some types of adhesive, a tight collar, a material that creates friction between two objects, etc.) or (b) are removable by hand without the aid of a loosening tool (e.g., objects that are joined by corresponding male and female features, such as a tongue and groove, a ridge and groove, some types of adhesive, a material that creates friction between objects). etc.), and / or (b) can withstand without failure one or more parameters of the existing methods, such as pressure, heat, force(s) imposed by thermal expansion, etc.Do. A microwave disruptor may generally comprise (e.g., consist of) any material and have any shape that can reduce or eliminate the heating ability of microwaves at or near the location of the microwave disruptor. In some embodiments, the microwave disruptor comprises a metal such as copper, stainless steel, etc. The microwave disruptor may comprise a wire (e.g., flexible and stretched) or rod (e.g., rigid and stretched) that may be straight, curved, or a combination thereof. When the microwave disruptor comprises a wire or rod, a flange, one or more protruding structures, or a combination thereof, may be located on any portion of the wire or rod. Several embodiments of microwave disruptors are shown in FIG. 2A-FIG. 2D. The microwave disruptor 200 of FIG. 2A includes a curved wire 202 having a first end 201 that may be mounted anywhere in a housing (e.g., pipe). The microwave disruptor 210 of FIG. 2B includes a cylindrical rod 212 having a first end 211 that may be mounted anywhere in a housing (e.g., pipe). The microwave disruptor 210 also includes a circular flange 213. The microwave disruptor 220 of FIG. 2C includes a rod 222 having a first end 221 that may be mounted anywhere in a housing (e.g., pipe). The microwave disruptor 220 also includes three protruding structures 223. The microwave disruptor 230 of FIG. 2D includes a wire 232 with a plurality of bends and a first end 231 that may be mounted anywhere in a housing (e.g., pipe). A device, system, or part thereof, such as a tube, may include one or more retaining devices to (i) prevent the escape of absorbent material from the inner container and / or the cap of the container (e.g., tube), (ii) control the location of an absorbent material within a device, system, or part thereof, such as the inner container, cap, main unit, etc., (iii) prevent the contact of an absorbent material with a liquid, or (iv) a combination thereof. One or more retaining devices may include materials that are permeable or impermeable to a liquid that is poured into the inlet of a container (e.g., tube). One or more retaining devices may be located in any position in a system or device. One or more retention devices may be (i) located within or adjacent to an internal volume defined by a chamber, such as a tube, and / or (ii) configured to retain adsorbent particles within an internal volume defined by a chamber while allowing fluid to exit the internal volume. In some embodiments, the retention device includes a membrane. In some embodiments, the retention device includes a plurality of pores through which a fluid can pass, but an adsorbent material, such as adsorbent particles, cannot pass. In some embodiments, the one or more retention devices include a screen. The retaining device (e.g., membrane, plate, etc.), which may include a frame, may be (e.g., fixedly mounted) (i) in or adjacent to a housing (e.g., tube), e.g., at one or both ends of an internal reservoir, in a cap, or adjacent to a cap, (ii) in or adjacent to the main unit (e.g., in the main unit, between the main unit and the cap, and / or in a pipe or other device through which a fluid exits the main unit), or (iii) a combination thereof. Any sieve designation may be selected for the retaining device. For example, the retaining device may have any suitable mesh number. In some embodiments, the retaining device is a plate having a mesh number of 4 to 400, 10 to 200, 20 to 100, or 20 to 50. In some embodiments, the retaining devices include a 30 mesh screen. In some embodiments, the average open area of ​​the openings in the retaining mechanism is less than 20 mm, 15 mm, 10 mm, 5 mm, or 2 mm.In some embodiments, the retaining device includes a plate attached to the housing, a perforated plate attached to the housing, or a perforated wall of the housing. In some embodiments, at least one holding device includes a first holding structure located proximate a fluid inlet of a chamber (e.g., tube) and a second holding structure located proximate a fluid outlet. In addition to being permeable to a fluid poured into the inlet of a chamber (e.g., tube), one or more holding devices may accommodate one or more other components of a chamber (e.g., tube), such as a microwave disruptor, through an aperture or other means. For example, a microwave disruptor may include a portion positioned within an opening defined by one or more holding devices. In some embodiments, one or more holding devices include one or more chambers formed at least in part from an electromagnetically transparent material, such as a microwave transparent material, which may be (i) impermeable to a fluid, and (ii) the same as or different from the electromagnetically transparent material of a tube. An absorbent material may be disposed in one or more chambers. A chamber may generally have any shape, and a chamber (e.g., a tube) may include one or more chambers in which an absorbent material is disposed. In some embodiments, the chamber in which the absorbent material is disposed is an elongated chamber having a length to width ratio of at least 3:1 (e.g., cylindrical in shape) thereby forming a “tube-in-a-tube” configuration. In which a fluid passes through an area defined at least in part by the outer surface of the elongated chamber and the inner surface of the tube. In some embodiments, two or more elongated compartments, in any shape, are disposed within a single compartment (e.g., a tube). In some embodiments, one or more compartments comprise one or more capsules with a length to width ratio of less than 3:1 (e.g., spherical, oval, square, rectangular) disposed within a single compartment (e.g., a tube). The material disposed within a single compartment may be in any shape, including those described herein, such as particulate form, monolithic form, or a combination thereof. A cross-sectional view of the tube of Figure 1A is shown in Figure 1D. The tube 100 includes an inner reservoir 151 and plates (141, 142) arranged at both ends of the inner reservoir 151, which retain an absorbent material 150 in the inner reservoir 151. The plate 142, located at a location closer to the second end 102 of the tube 100, defines an opening that houses the microwave disruptor 210 of Figure 2B. The first end 211 of the microwave disruptor 210 is fixedly mounted on the second cap 130 of the tube 100, and as shown in Figure 2B, the microwave disruptor 210 includes a rod 212 and a flange 213. The microwave disruptor 210 may reduce or eliminate the ability of the microwave to heat a portion of the tube, such as the second cap 130, which provides the outlet 131. In embodiments, the plate 142 may be located at a location closer to the first end 101 of the tube 100, such that the microwave disruptor 210 does not need to penetrate the plate 142. Another cross-sectional view of the tube of Figure 1A is shown in Figure 1E, which includes a material 150 located in an internal reservoir 151. Applicator The devices provided herein may include an applicator, such as a microwave applicator. Applicators may include any device in which a housing (e.g., tube) is mounted in any manner while an absorbent material is irradiated with a plurality of electromagnetic waves, such as a plurality of microwaves. The plurality of electromagnetic waves input to an applicator may include a plurality of radio waves, a plurality of microwaves, a plurality of infrared waves, gamma rays, any other type of electromagnetic waves, or a combination thereof. The plurality of electromagnetic waves may be generated, at least in part, by a laser. Any of the applicators provided herein - including those referred to (i) as a "microwave applicator", (ii) as a host microwave, or (iii) used with one or more microwave generators - may be used with any of the foregoing types of electromagnetic waves. One or more chambers (e.g., tubes) may be arranged at least partially in an applicator. At least a portion of a chamber (e.g., tubes) and / or at least a portion of an absorbent material is arranged in the applicator when positioned in a manner that allows at least a portion of the electromagnetic waves contained in the applicator to be in contact with, pass through, or radiate to at least a portion of the chamber and / or at least a portion of the absorbent material. In some embodiments, an applicator includes more than one component, and one or more chambers (and, if present, an absorbent material in one or more chambers) are arranged at least partially in a component of the applicator in which the electromagnetic waves are contained (e.g., a reservoir, modular unit, etc.). For example, one, two, three, four, or more chambers may be arranged at least partially in an applicator. Each chamber may be independently arranged in whole or in part in an applicator.For example, when a housing is a tube, the tube may be completely contained within the applicator (e.g., no portion of the tube extends from the applicator), or partially contained within the applicator (e.g., a first end or both the first and second ends of the tube extend from the applicator). An applicator may comprise a single piece having a housing (e.g., tube) mounted thereon into which electromagnetic waves, such as microwaves, are introduced (e.g., a tank, modular unit, etc.). Alternatively, an applicator may comprise two or more pieces, such as a tank or modular unit into which microwaves are introduced, and at least one separate piece, such as a mountable device, as described herein, that is mounted to the housing (e.g., tube) in any manner (e.g., a separate bracket and / or other structure, e.g., a stand, an elongate support (e.g., a hanger, a wire, rod, cable rope, chain, tubing (e.g., a tube that places components of a system in fluid communication, etc.). An applicator may include a reservoir and at least one separate piece, and the reservoir and at least one separate piece may be arranged in the same or different locations. For example, a reservoir may be placed on a floor, base, first support, etc., and at least one separate piece (to which the tube may be attached in any manner) may be placed on or extend from the floor, base, support, or other location, such as a ceiling, wall, second base, second support, etc. In addition to the examples shown in FIGS. 3A, 3B, 4C, 4D, 6A, 6B, 6C, 7, 8, 9A, 9B, 10, and 11, other non-limiting examples of how a first end (or a first end and a second end) of a housing (e.g., tube) may be fixedly or spring-loaded onto an applicator are shown in FIGS. 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D, and 12E. Other configurations are also contemplated. Figure 12A shows an embodiment of an applicator (1202A, 1202B) mounted on a support structure 1203. The applicator (1202A, 1202B) includes a reservoir into which microwaves 1202A are introduced and two legs 1202B. The first and second ends of a tube 1201 are mounted on the legs 1202B. The legs 1202B may be configured to allow one or both ends of the tube 1201 to be fixedly or spring-loaded onto the applicator (1202A, 1202B). In alternative embodiments, the applicator of Figure 12A has only one leg 1202B. One or both of the bases (1202B) may include wheels and / or other features to facilitate or ease removal of the tube 1201 from the reservoir 1202A. Although both ends of the tube 1201 of FIG. 12A protrude from the reservoir 1202A, it is not necessary for one or both ends to do so. A cross-sectional view of the reservoir 1202A of FIG. 12A is shown in FIG. 12F. FIG. 12F shows an opening 1210 defined by the reservoir 1202A, and the tube 1201 mounted on the applicator (1202A, 1202B) is located in the opening but the tube 1201 does not contact the reservoir 1202A, thereby allowing a “floating” tube. Alternatively, the base(s) 1202B of FIG. 12A may be configured to allow a portion of the tube 1201 to contact the reservoir 1202A at one or more locations. An example of such a configuration is shown in FIG. 12G. Additionally or alternatively, the applicator (1202A, 1202B), as shown for example in FIGS. 12H and 12I, may include a material 1220 disposed between and in contact with the reservoir 1202A and the tube 1201 disposed in the opening 1210. The material 1220 may completely or partially bypass a tube. For example, the material 1220 may be configured in the manner shown in FIG. 12H, or the material 1220 may comprise one or more discrete sections, as shown, for example, in FIG. 12I. The material 1220 may have one or more properties (e.g., rigid, flexible, adhesive, etc.) that allow the tube 1201 to be fixedly or springily mounted on the applicator (1202A, 1202B), as described herein, with or without the base(s) 1202B (see, e.g., FIG. 3A, FIG. 3B). For example, the material 1220 may be an elastic material that accommodates possible expansion and contraction of the tube 1201. In some embodiments, the material 1220 is positioned in one or more openings defined by the reservoir 1202A of the applicator (1202A, 1202B). Figure 12B shows an embodiment of an applicator (1202A, 1202B, 1202C) mounted on a support structure 1203. The applicator (1202A, 1202B, 1202C) includes a reservoir into which microwaves are introduced two brackets 1202B, 1201A and two brackets 1202C. Two elongate supports 1202C are connected to the brackets 1202B and extend from the brackets 1202B to the first and second ends of the tube 1201. The two elongate supports may comprise any material and may be rigid or flexible, thus allowing the tube to be spring-mounted or fixedly mounted on the applicator (1202A, 1202B, 1202C). The brackets 1202B may be attached to any structure or surface, or alternatively, the elongate supports 1202C may be directly attached to any structure or surface without the brackets 1202B. The first end and the second end of the tube 1201 may be attached to the elongate supports 1202C in any manner. The applicator (1202A, 1202B, 1202C), the support structure 1203, and / or an optional additional material 1220 may be configured to position the tube 1201 in any manner as shown in FIGS. 12F, 12G, 12H, 12I. Fig. 12C shows an embodiment of an applicator (1202A, 1202B, 1202C) mounted on a support structure 1203. The applicator (1202A, 1202B, 1202C) includes a reservoir in which microwaves are provided two brackets 1202B, 1202A and two elongated supports 1202C. The two elongated supports 1202C are connected to the brackets 1202B and extend from the brackets 1202B to the beginning of the tube 1201. The two elongated supports may comprise any material and may be rigid or flexible, thus allowing the tube to be spring-loaded or fixedly mounted on the applicator (1202A, 1202B, 1202C). The brackets 1202B may be attached to any structure or surface, or alternatively, the elongated supports 1202C may be attached directly to any structure of the surface without the brackets 1202B. The first end of the tube 1201 may be attached to the elongated supports 1202C in any manner, such as a collar or feature of the tube 1201. In alternative embodiments, the applicator (i) of FIG. 12C has only one bracket 1202B and only one elongated support 1202C, (ii) the applicator is not supported by the support structure 1203, but rather in the manner shown in FIG. 12D. The elongated supports 1202C may be used to partially or completely lift the tube 1201 from the reservoir 1202A, which may assist in cleaning, maintenance, removal / refilling of the contents of the tube 1201, etc. Although both ends of the tube 1201 of FIG. 12C protrude from the reservoir 1202A, it is not necessary for one or both ends to do so. The applicator (1202A, 1202B, 1202C), the holding structure 1203 and / or an optional additional material 1220 may be configured to position the tube 1201 in any of the configurations shown in FIGS. 12F, 12G, 12H, or 12I.Although brackets 1202B and extended support 1202C are shown in FIG. 12C at the "upper" end of tank 1202A, brackets 1202B and extended supports 1202C could be placed at the "lower" end of tank 1202A, especially if extended supports 1202C are rigid. FIG. 12D shows an embodiment of an applicator 1202 supported by brackets 1205 and elongate supports 1204 extending from brackets 1205 to applicator 1202. A first end of tube 1201 is fixedly mounted to applicator 1202 by a base unit 1206 and connector 1207 as described herein (see, e.g., FIGS. 7 and 8 ). In alternative embodiments, the first end of tube 1201 is spring-mounted to applicator 1202, e.g., as shown in FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, 9A, 9B, 10, and 11 . Although both ends of tube 1201 of FIG. 12D protrude from reservoir 1202, it is not necessary for one or both ends to do so. The applicator (1202), brackets 1205, elongated supports 1204, and / or an optional additional material 1220 may be configured to accommodate the tube 1201 in any of the configurations shown in FIGS. 12F, 12G, 12H, and 12I. Although the main unit 1206 is depicted “above” the applicator 1202, the main unit 1206 could be positioned below the applicator 1202. Figure 12E shows an embodiment of an applicator (1202A, 1202B) supported by brackets 1205 and elongate supports 1204 extending from brackets 1205 to applicator 1202. The applicator (1202A, 1202B) includes a reservoir into which microwaves are introduced 1202A and two legs 1202B. A first end of a tube 1201 is mounted to legs 1202B. In alternative embodiments, the applicator of Figure 12E has only one leg (1202B). The leg(s) of Figure 12E may include an opening or other feature that allows access to an opening at the first end of the tube. The base(s) 1202B of FIG. 12E may be configured to accommodate a container (e.g., tube) that includes or does not include a main unit, as described herein. The extended supports 1204 may be used to lift the container 1202A, thereby separating the tube 1201 and the container 1202A. Although both ends of the tube 1201 of FIG. 12E protrude from the container 1202A, it is not necessary for one or both ends to do so.The applicator (1202A, 1202B), brackets 1205, elongated supports 1204, and / or an optional additional material 1220 can be configured to position the tube 1201 in any of the configurations shown in FIGS. 12F, 12G, 12H, and / or 12I. In some embodiments, the applicator includes a reservoir having a first end and a second end and comprising one or more compartments defined by one or more outer walls of the reservoir, one or more inner walls of the reservoir, or a combination thereof. The first end and the second end of the reservoir may each comprise opposing outer walls of the reservoir. The first end of the reservoir, the second end of the reservoir, one or more walls within the reservoir, or a combination thereof may define an opening. The opening(s) may accommodate a tube. For example, a tube may be received in the openings defined by (a) the first end of the reservoir, (b) the second end of the reservoir, (c) one or more walls within the reservoir, or (d) a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the applicator includes one, one to thirty, one to twenty-five, one to fifteen, one to ten, two to ten, two to eight, four to eight, or four to six chambers. A microwave generator may be placed into a chamber to introduce a plurality of microwaves. The number of chambers may be greater than, equal to, or less than the number of microwave generators. Many electromagnetic waves, such as microwaves, may be introduced through an opening defined (i) by the outer wall of the container, (ii) by a component of a microwave generator located in a chamber, (iii) by a component of a microwave generator located in a waveguide, or (iv) a combination thereof. As used herein, the term "microwave generator" refers to devices that generate microwaves, including device components such as antennas, coaxial cables, transmission lines, etc. In some embodiments, an electromagnetic wave propagation structure includes one or more components of a microwave generator, such as antennas, coaxial cables, etc. When the methods described herein are performed with electromagnetic waves other than microwaves, "microwave generators" may be replaced with generators of other types of electromagnetic waves provided herein. As used herein, the phrase "introduced into a container chamber through an opening defined by an outer wall" refers to introducing microwaves with a microwave generator outside a container and introducing the microwaves into a container through an opening defined by the outer wall of the container. Before passing through the opening, the microwaves may pass through a waveguide, coaxial cable, or other transmission line. As used herein, the phrase "introduced into a housing by a microwave generator" refers to introducing microwaves into a housing with a microwave generator having at least one component, such as an antenna, arranged in a housing. Other components of such a microwave generator may be arranged outside the housing and may be connected via a cable to one or more components, such as an antenna, arranged in the housing. When microwaves are introduced into a housing with an antenna or the like, the microwaves may not pass through a waveguide arranged outside the housing and therefore the housing may not include a waveguide. As used herein, the phrase "by a microwave generator located in a waveguide" refers to the generation of microwaves by a microwave generator having at least one component, such as an antenna, arranged in a waveguide. Other components of such a microwave generator may be arranged outside the waveguide and may be connected by a cable to one or more components, such as an antenna, arranged in the waveguide. When microwaves are generated within a waveguide with an antenna or the like, the microwaves may, before entering the enclosure through an opening defined by the outer wall of the enclosure, travel through at least a portion of the waveguide, including a portion of the waveguide present between (i) the microwave generator component in the waveguide and (b) the enclosure or opening of the enclosure. In some embodiments, at least one of the one or more microwave generators is positioned to introduce a plurality of microwaves into at least one of the compartments. Each compartment may be associated with one or more microwave generators. In some embodiments, a first, second, third, etc. microwave generator is positioned to introduce a plurality of microwaves into the first, second, third, etc. compartments, respectively. In some embodiments, the number of compartments is greater than the number of microwave generators. Thus, a microwave generator may not be located in each chamber. In some embodiments, the device includes three to six microwave generators and four to six chambers. In some embodiments, the number of chambers is less than the number of microwave generators. Thus, two or more microwave generators may be located in one or more chambers. The chambers of the applicator may be single-mode chambers or multi-mode chambers. In some embodiments, the chambers of an applicator, including a foreskin, are multi-mode chambers. In some embodiments, an absorbent material is irradiated with a plurality of electromagnetic waves, including electromagnetic waves other than microwaves, and these non-microwave electromagnetic waves may be generated by one or more sources (e.g., a generator, an antenna, etc.), which may be located in any one or more locations described herein for a microwave generator. Applicators may also include one or more waveguides. As used herein, the term "waveguide" refers to a device that (i) is arranged between a microwave generator and a housing, and (ii) includes a passage through which microwaves pass before entering a housing, where the passage is constructed to reduce or eliminate microwave energy loss as it passes through the passage. Thus, a waveguide may have any external shape, and the shape and dimensions of the passage may be configured to reduce or eliminate microwave energy loss. When a waveguide is present, it may extend from and / or be connected to an opening of a housing. A microwave generator may be located and / or connected to the other end of the waveguide. The opening of the housing from which a waveguide extends and / or is connected may be at least partially covered with an electromagnetically transparent material (e.g., a microwave transparent material), such as an alumina coating, TEFLON® polytetrafluoroethylene, fused silica, etc. In some embodiments, a waveguide is located between each housing and the microwave generator. One or more waveguides may include at least one adjustment screw, which may be a feature that enables impedance matching. An embodiment of an applicator and a tube mounted on the applicator is shown in Figures 3A and 3B. Figure 3A is a side view and Figure 3B is a cross-sectional view of an applicator 300 including a first end 301 and a second end 302. The tube of Figure 1A is located in an opening 310 defined by the first end 301, an opening 311 defined by the second end 302, and an opening 321 defined by three walls 320 that divide the applicator 300 into four chambers (351, 352, 353). Although not illustrated, the applicator 300 of FIGS. 3A and 3B can include one or more additional tubes disposed in the openings (310, 311, 321). Alternatively or additionally, the applicator 300, although not illustrated, can feature a second set of openings in which one or more additional tubes are arranged. A waveguide 315 extends from each of the four housings (351, 352, 353, 354). The waveguides 315 of the illustrated embodiment appear on the other sides of the applicator 300, but other configurations are possible and conceivable. A microwave generator 316 is located in each of the waveguides 315. Although a microwave generator 316 is located in each of the waveguides of the illustrated embodiments, other configurations are possible. For example, a microwave generator may be located to introduce microwaves into any combination of four compartments, e.g., (i) 351-353, (ii) 352-354, (iii) 351, 353, (iv) 352, 354, etc. When a microwave generator is not located in a waveguide, the waveguide may be removed, and / or the opening to the compartment may be closed in any manner. In some embodiments (not shown), the tube 160 of FIG. 1F is positioned in an opening 310 defined by a first end 301, an opening 311 defined by a second end 302, and openings 321 defined by three walls 320 that divide the applicator 300 into four chambers (351, 352, 353). Although microwave generators 316 are provided in FIGS. 3A and 3B, other electromagnetic wave generators, such as those described herein, may be used in other embodiments of the apparatus shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B. The apparatus of FIGS. 3A and 3B may also be arranged at any angle, as described herein, from 0 degrees (as shown) to 90 degrees during operation, thus allowing the apparatus to operate in either an up-flow or down-flow mode. Although both ends (120, 130) of the tube extending from the applicator 300 in FIGS. 3A and 3B do not have to do so. The applicator 300 and the tube of FIGS. 3A and 3B may be arranged in any one or more of the configurations shown in FIGS. 12F and 12I. For example, the applicator and tube may be arranged in the manner shown in FIG. 12G. (i.e., the tube contacts the applicator at one or more openings defined by the applicator), and this arrangement may result in a spring tube, or in other words, the tube can expand or contract relative to the applicator when subjected to the force of the methods described herein. As another example, the applicator and tube may be arranged in the manner shown in FIGS. 12H or 12I, and this arrangement may result in a fixed or spring tube, for example, depending on the properties of the material and / or the relationship between the materials, tube, and applicator. For example, the material may be an adhesive or include an adhesive that results in a fixed tube. As another example, the material may be an elastic material that can accommodate movement (e.g., expansion / contraction) of the tube, thereby resulting in a springy tube. The applicator of Figures 3A and 3B may include any one or more features, such as one or more of those shown in Figures 12A and 12E. An applicator may include a solid-state microwave applicator. A solid-state microwave applicator may include at least one antenna, a power component, and a cable (e.g., a coaxial cable) connecting the power component and each of the at least one antenna. One or more antennas may be located in a housing of the applicators disclosed herein, and a wall at least partially defining each housing may define an opening through which a cable of a solid-state microwave applicator may be received. For example, an applicator may include six housings, and each of the six housings may include at least one antenna, and the antenna may be connected to one or more power components. One or more antennas may be located in a waveguide of the applicators disclosed herein, and each wall defining each waveguide may define an opening that may accommodate a cable of a solid-state microwave applicator. For example, an applicator may include six waveguides, and any of the six waveguides may have at least one antenna, and the antenna may be connected to one or more electrical components. As another example, an applicator may include six chambers and one to six waveguides, and any of the six chambers and one to six waveguides may have at least one antenna, and the antenna may be connected to one or more electrical components. An applicator may also be comprised of one modular applicator unit or at least two modular applicator units. In some embodiments, the applicator comprises one to thirty modular applicator units, one to twenty-five modular applicator units, one to twenty modular applicator units, one to fifteen modular applicator units, one to ten modular applicator units, two to ten modular applicator units. In some embodiments, the applicator comprises four to six modular applicator units. Each modular unit may include (i) a housing having a first side and a second side, (ii) a first opening defined by the first side, (iii) a second opening defined by the second side, and (iv) a waveguide extending from the third opening of the housing. Each modular applicator unit of an applicator may be identical, or at least two of the modular applicator units may differ in any way, such as the dimensions of a housing, the dimensions of a waveguide, the orientation of a housing, waveguide and / or opening, or a combination thereof. Whether identical or different, both modular units of an applicator may be oriented in the same manner. The housing of each modular unit may be a single-mode housing or a multi-mode housing. In some embodiments, the housing of each modular unit is a single-mode housing. An embodiment of a modular applicator unit is shown in FIG. 4A (perspective view) and FIG. 4B (sectional view). The modular applicator unit 400 includes a first side 401 and a second side 403 and a first opening 402 and a second opening 404, respectively, identified by the first side 401 and the second side 403. The modular applicator unit 400 also includes a waveguide 410 and a housing 420. The housing 420 of FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B is an example of a non-polygonal housing, but other housings are also contemplated. Although not depicted, the modular applicator unit 400 can define a second set of openings (e.g., a third opening defined by the first side 401 , and a fourth opening defined by the second side 403 ), thereby allowing two tubes to pass through the modular applicator unit 400 . In some embodiments, at least two of the modular applicator units are positioned adjacent to each other, and a tube is positioned in the first and second openings of the adjacent modular applicator units. In some embodiments, one to thirty modular applicator units, or two to ten modular applicator units, are positioned adjacent to each other, and the tube is positioned in the first and second openings of each modular applicator unit. When two modular applicator units are positioned adjacent to each other, the two modular applicator units may not be in contact with each other. When two modular applicator units are in contact with each other, the two modular applicator units may be connected to each other in any manner. For example, two modular applicator units may be fixedly connected to each other. In some embodiments, the modular applicator units include one or more structural features, such as corresponding male and female structural features, that may permit or facilitate the arrangement and / or adjacency of two modular applicator units. In some embodiments, at least one of the one or more microwave generators is arranged to deliver a plurality of microwaves to at least one of one to thirty modular applicator units. In some embodiments, the device includes three to six microwave generators, and the applicator is arranged to include four to six modular applicator units. An embodiment of an applicator and a tube mounted on the applicator is shown in FIG. 4C (side view) and FIG. 4D (side view). The applicator 490 includes 6 adjacent modular applicator units 400 shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B. The applicator units 400 are adjacent to each other and in contact with each other. A first side 401 of each modular applicator unit 401 is in contact with a second side 403 of each adjacent modular applicator unit 400. The tube 100 shown in FIG. 1A is positioned in a first opening 402 and a second opening 404 (see FIG. 4B) of each modular applicator unit 400. Although not depicted, the applicator 490 of FIGS. 4C and 4D can include one or more additional tubes positioned in the openings (402, 404). Alternatively or additionally, the applicator 490, although not depicted, can define additional openings (as described above with respect to FIG. 4A) into which one or more additional tubes are positioned. The modular applicator units 400 are oriented such that three waveguides 410 extend from one side of the device shown in FIG. 4C and three waveguides 410 extend from the other side of the device shown in FIG. 4D. However, other orientations are possible and contemplated. As shown, for example, in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the microwave generator may be located in one or more waveguides 410. In some embodiments (not shown), the tube 160 depicted in FIG. 1F is arranged in the first and second openings 402 and 404 (see FIG. 4B) of each modular applicator unit 400. The device of FIGS. 4C and 4D may also be adjusted at any angle, as described herein, from 0 degrees (as shown) to 90 degrees during operation, thus allowing the device to operate in either a high or low flow mode. Although both ends (120, 130) of the tube protrude from the applicator 490 in FIGS. 4C and 4D, it is not necessary for one or both ends to do so. The applicator 490 and tube of FIGS. 4C and 4D may be arranged in any one or more of the configurations shown in FIGS. 12F and 12I. For example, the applicator and tube may be arranged in the manner shown in FIG. 12G (e.g., the tube contacts the applicator at one or more openings defined by the applicator), and this arrangement results in a spring tube, as the tube is allowed to move relative to the applicator. As another example, the applicator and tube may be arranged in the manner shown in Figures 12H or 12I. This arrangement may result in a rigid or springy tube, for example, depending on the properties of the material and / or the relationship between the materials, tube, and applicator. The applicator of Figures 4C and 4D may include one or more features, such as one or more of those shown in Figures 12A and 12E. A tube may be attached to an applicator in any manner. As described herein, a tube may be attached to an applicator by attaching (i) a portion of the tube, such as a cap, to an applicator, and / or (ii) a separate device that contacts a tube, such as a headunit (see, e.g., FIGS. 12F and 12I). In some embodiments, a tube is spring-mounted to an applicator. In some embodiments, a tube is fixedly mounted to an applicator. In some embodiments, one portion of a tube, such as a first end, is fixedly or spring-mounted to an applicator, and another portion of the tube, such as a second end, is fixedly or spring-mounted to an applicator. When a tube is mounted, either fixedly or spring-loaded, to an applicator, a portion of the tube, such as a first cap or a second cap, or another part of the device, such as a first or second head unit, in contact with a tube, may be (i) mounted directly to the reservoir of an applicator or one of the modular applicator units of the applicator, or (ii) mounted to another part of the applicator, such as a mounting device. The mounting device may be a separate component (i.e., not attached to a reservoir or modular applicator unit) that allows a portion of a tube to be mounted to an applicator. Non-limiting examples of mounting devices include the bases, brackets, and elongated supports of FIGS. 12A and 12E (such as hangers, chains, cables, ropes, wires, pipes, hoses, etc.). Therefore, the installation devices may include pipes, hoses, or any connecting lines used in the systems provided herein. As used herein, the term "mounted in a state" describes a connection between two bodies that is configured to be elastic, and thus, allows one of the two bodies to (i) move relative to the second body by applying a force to the first body, and (ii) return to a position at or near its original position upon removal of the force. For example, a force may be applied by expansion of a part of a device, such as a pipe, which may occur during heating. When the end of a spring-loaded tube is connected to an applicator, the devices herein may include one or more devices for detecting (i) the force exerted by thermal expansion of the tube, (ii) the distance traveled by a spring-loaded object, or (iii) a combination thereof. For example, a distance-sensing laser may be fixedly mounted to a spring-loaded object (e.g., a headunit as described herein), and a change in distance determined by the laser and a spring constant may be used to calculate the force. As a further example, a load cell may be used to detect or determine one or more forces. In some embodiments, (i) a first end of a spring-mounted tube is connected to an applicator, (b) a second end of a spring-mounted tube is fixedly connected to an applicator, (iii) a first end of a spring-mounted tube is connected to an applicator and a second end of the spring-mounted tube is fixedly connected to the applicator, (iv) a first end of the spring-mounted tube is fixedly connected to the applicator, (v) a second end of the spring-mounted tube is fixedly connected to the applicator, (vi) a first end of a spring-mounted tube is fixedly connected to an applicator and a second end of a spring-mounted tube is fixedly connected to an applicator, or (vii) a first end of a spring-mounted tube is fixedly connected to an applicator and a second end of a spring-mounted tube is fixedly connected to the applicator. The devices herein may include at least one head unit configured to (i) contact a tube, such as the end of a tube, and (ii) be mounted in any manner to an applicator. For example, a head unit may be mounted on a tank, a modular applicator unit, or a mountable device. A head unit may be mounted with one or more fasteners, such as a threaded fastener (e.g., a threaded or semi-threaded screw, bolt, etc.). When a threaded or semi-threaded fastener is used to secure a component to an applicator, the applicator may have a corresponding feature to receive the threaded or semi-threaded connection, such as a threaded or semi-threaded recess, a threaded or semi-threaded socket protrusion of the applicator, an opening into which the fastener is located and secured with a nut, etc. In some embodiments, the head unit is mounted with one to thirty fasteners, one to twenty-five fasteners, one to twenty fasteners, one to fifteen fasteners, one to ten fasteners, one to eight fasteners, one to six fasteners, one to four fasteners, one to three fasteners, two fasteners, or one fastener. A head unit may be mounted by welding. A head unit may be an integral part of a reservoir or modular applicator unit of an applicator. A device may include one head unit, two head units, or more, and any feature described herein with respect to a “first head unit” or a “second head unit” may be a feature of a “second head unit” or a “first head unit” or any other head unit, respectively. In some embodiments, the devices provided herein include (i) a first head unit defining a first opening, (ii) a first fastener having a first end and a second end, wherein the first fastener is slidably disposed in the first opening, and the second end of the first fastener is fixedly mounted to the applicator, and (iii) a first elastic compressible device disposed between the first head unit and the first end and / or the second end of the first fastener. In some embodiments, the devices provided herein include (1) a first head unit defining a first opening and a second opening, (ii) a first clamp having a first end and a second end, wherein the first clamp is slidably disposed in the first opening and the second end of the first clamp is fixedly mounted to the applicator, (iii) a second clamp having a first end and a second end, wherein the second clamp is slidably disposed in the second opening and the second end of the first clamp is fixedly mounted to the applicator, (iv) a first elastically compressible device disposed between the first head unit and the first and / or second ends of the first clamp, and (v) a second elastically compressible device disposed between the first head unit and the first and / or second ends of the second clamp, wherein the first end of the tube and the first head unit are in contact with each other. In some embodiments, the device also includes (i) a third opening defined by the first head unit, (ii) a third fastener having a first end and a second end, wherein the third fastener is slidably disposed in the third opening, and the second end of the third fastener is fixedly mounted on the applicator, (iii) a third elastic compressible device disposed between the first head unit and the first and / or second ends of the third fastener. In some embodiments, the device also includes (i) a fourth opening defined by the first head unit, (ii) a fourth fastener having a first end and a second end, wherein the fourth fastener is slidably received in the fourth opening, and the second end of the fourth fastener is fixedly mounted on the applicator, and (iii) a fourth elastic compressible device disposed between the first head unit and the first and / or second ends of the fourth fastener. When more than four fasteners having a first end and a second end are used to mount the head unit, an elastic compressible device may be disposed between the first head unit and each of the first and / or second ends with more than four fasteners. As used herein, the terms "slidably mounted," "slidably positioned," and the like describe a connection between two bodies that facilitates movement of at least one of the bodies relative to the other, either freely or with the application of a force. As used herein, the term "elastically compressible device" refers to an active or passive device configured to deflect from an original shape and / or position and return to the original shape and / or position upon the application or removal of one or more forces. In general, elastically compressible devices may be positioned in any position in the devices provided herein (e.g., between a headunit and a reservoir, between a headunit and a spacer block, between a headunit and a first end of a fastener, between a headunit and a second end of a fastener, etc.). Elastically compressible devices may be positioned to accommodate expansion of any component of the devices provided herein, including, but not limited to, a tube, a headunit, a spacer block, etc. The elastic compressible devices (such as the first, second, third and fourth elastic compressible devices) may be the same or different. The elastic compressible devices (such as the first, second, third and fourth elastic compressible devices) may include a spring, a pneumatic device, such as a pneumatic piston, a hydraulic device, such as a hydraulic cylinder, etc. The spring may include a coil spring. The spring, in some embodiments, comprises one or more disc springs slidably mounted on one or more fasteners, such as a first fastener, a second fastener, a third fastener, or a fourth fastener. The spring, in some embodiments, comprises two or more disc springs slidably mounted on one or more fasteners, such as a first fastener, a second fastener, a third fastener, or a fourth fastener. In some embodiments, 1 to 1000, 1 to 750, 1 to 500, 1 to 250, 1 to 100, 1 to 50, 1 to 25, or 2 to 24 disc springs are slidably mounted on the first fastener, the second fastener, the third fastener, or the fourth fastener, respectively. In some embodiments, the head unit includes at least one plate and a portion configured to receive the end of a tube. In some embodiments, the device includes a first head unit including (i) a portion configured to receive the end of a tube, and (ii) a plate defining a first aperture, (iii) a first connector having a first end and a second end, wherein the first fastener is slidably received in the first aperture, and the second end of the first fastener is fixedly mounted to the applicator, and (iv) a first elastically compressible device disposed between the plate and the first / or second end of the first fastener, wherein the portion configured to receive the end of the tube is (a) located between the applicator and the plate, and (b) in contact with the plate and the tube. The portion configured to receive the end of a tube may include a non-planar surface (e.g., round, curved, tapered, etc.) that contacts the plate. The plate may have a completely flat surface that contacts the non-planar surface of the portion configured to receive the end of a tube. The non-planar surface may allow the portion configured to receive the end of a tube to move when a force is applied to the portion configured to receive the end of the tube, such as a force that may be applied during the methods described herein. The plate may include a non-planar surface (e.g., round, curved, tapered, etc.) that contacts the portion configured to receive the end of a tube. The portion configured to receive the end of a tube may have a substantially flat surface that contacts the non-planar surface of the plate. The non-planar surface of the plate may allow the portion configured to receive the end of a tube to move relative to the plate when a force is applied to the portion configured to receive the end of a tube, such as a force that may be applied during the methods described herein. In some embodiments, the portion configured to receive the end of a tube includes a flat surface that contacts the corresponding flat surface of the plate. In some embodiments, the device includes a first head unit comprising (i) a portion configured to receive an end of a tube, and (ii) a plate defining first and second openings, a first connector having first and second ends, wherein a first fastener is slidably disposed in the first opening, and a second end of the first fastener is fixedly attached to the applicator, a second fastener having first and second ends, wherein the second fastener is slidably disposed in the second opening, and the second end of the first fastener is fixedly mounted to the applicator, a first elastically compressible device is disposed between the plate and the first end and / or the second end of the first fastener and a second elastically compressible device is disposed between the plate and the first and / or second ends of the second fastener, wherein the portion configured to receive the end of a tube is (a) disposed between the applicator and the plate, and (b) in contact with the plate and the tube. In some embodiments, the device includes a third opening defined by the plate, a third fastener having a first end and a second end, wherein the third fastener is slidably disposed in the third opening, and the second end of the third fastener is fixedly mounted to the applicator, and a third elastic compressible device is disposed between the plate and the first end and / or the second end of the third fastener. In some embodiments, the device includes a fourth opening defined by the plate, a fourth fastener having a first and second end, wherein the fourth fastener is slidably disposed in the fourth opening, and the second end of the fourth fastener is fixedly mounted to the applicator, and a fourth elastic compressible device disposed between the plate and the first and / or second ends of the fourth fastener. The first, second, third, and fourth elastic compressible devices may be the same or different. In some embodiments, the first, second, third, or fourth elastic compressible devices include one or more disc springs slidably mounted on a first, second, third, or fourth bracket, respectively, on the head unit. In some embodiments, the device includes 1 to 1000, 1 to 750, 1 to 500, 1 to 250, 1 to 100, 1 to 50, 1 to 25, or 2 to 24 disc springs slidably mounted on a first, second, third, or fourth bracket, respectively, of the first head unit. In some embodiments, one or more disc springs of the devices herein include BELLEVILLES ®KEY disc springs (USA), commonly referred to as “BELLEVILLE ®washers”. A first head unit may contact a portion of a pipe, such as a first end of a pipe. The first head unit may include a first seal, wherein a portion of a pipe, such as a first end of a pipe, contacts the first seal. The first seal may include any known seal, and may be selected to prevent or eliminate the possibility of fluid leakage, and / or to resist one or more parameters of the method, such as pressure. The first seal may be positioned in any position that allows it to contact the first end of a pipe and a first head unit. For example, the first seal may (i) circumscribe an exterior surface of a pipe (e.g., the circumference of a cylindrical pipe), (ii) contact an end portion of a pipe (e.g., a surface defining an inlet), or (iii) be a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the first seal comprises rubber. For example, the first seal may comprise a rubber ring, which may be substantially circular when the portion of the tube, such as the first end (e.g., the first cap), contacts the headunit. In some embodiments, the first seal comprises metal, such as a metal ring. In some embodiments, the first head unit includes a recess configured to receive a portion of a tube, such as a first end of the tube (e.g., a first cap). The first sealant, if present, may be disposed in the recess. In some embodiments, the first head unit includes a recess configured to receive at least a portion of a sealant, and the sealant is disposed in the recess of the first head unit. In some embodiments, the tube (e.g., a cap) includes a recess configured to receive at least a portion of a sealant, and a sealant is disposed in the recess of the tube. The tube recess may be located in a cap or other portion of the tube and in some cases may surround the outer surface of the tube (e.g., the circumference of a cylindrical tube). In some embodiments, the first head unit includes a recess configured to receive a first portion of the sealant, and a tube (e.g., a cap) includes a recess configured to receive a second portion of the sealant, and the sealant is positioned in the recesses of the first head unit and the tube. The first head unit may generally have any shape that can accommodate openings and contact a tube. As used herein, the terms “sealant,” “primary seal,” “secondary seal,” and the like refer to a closure between two objects that eliminates or reduces the possibility of fluid leakage between the two objects. A seal may include (i) contact between the two objects (e.g., two objects that are welded, soldered, secured, clamped, bonded together with an adhesive, etc.), (ii) a means that is located between and in contact with both objects, or (iii) a combination thereof. The means that is located between and in contact with both objects may include a rubber seal (e.g., a VITON® rubber seal), a metal seal (e.g., a PARKER HANNIFIN® metal seal), a gasket, etc. A head unit may feature one or more openings configured to deliver fluid to a tube inlet or to allow fluid exiting a tube outlet to exit the head unit. The one or more openings may include one or more channels, such as those shown in FIG. 5C. A head unit may feature one or more openings in which a fastener is slidably disposed for securing a clamp or other device. An embodiment of a head unit is shown in FIG. 5A. The head unit 500 includes a recess 510 configured to receive a first end of a tube and an annular seal 520, which may be a metal or rubber seal, disposed in the recess 510. The head unit 500 also defines four apertures (530, 531, 532, 533) into which a fastener may be slidably disposed. The head unit 500 also defines an opening 534 that may allow a fluid to be provided to the inlet of a tube.A first hedunit, a second hedunit, or both the first and second hedunits may have the structure shown in Figure 5A. Another embodiment of a head unit is shown in Figure 5B (front view) and Figure 5C (sectional view). The head unit 540 defines a first circular recess 541 that is positioned in the first circular recess 541 to receive an annular seal, which may be a metal or rubber seal. The head unit 540 also defines four openings (542, 543, 544, 545) into which a fastener may be slidably positioned. The head unit 540 also defines a second circular recess 546 and includes a display 547 fixedly mounted in the second circular recess 546 by a screw 548, which may accommodate a portion of a clamp or other device. The head unit 540 includes two channels (555, 556), one or both of which may be used to direct fluid to the second circular recess 546 or to remove fluid from the second circular recess 546. Another embodiment of a head unit is shown in FIG. 5D (side view) and FIG. 5E (side view). The head unit 560 includes two parts: a portion 561 configured to receive the end of a tube and a plate 562. The portion 561 configured to receive the end of a tube includes a rounded surface 563 that contacts a flat surface 564 of the plate 562 when the head unit 560 is deployed, for example, as shown in FIG. 10. The head unit 560 defines a first circular recess 565 that is positioned in the first circular recess 565 to receive an annular seal, which may be a metal or rubber seal. The head unit 560 also features four openings (566, 567, 568, 569) into which a fastener may be tensionably inserted. The head unit 560 also features a second circular recess 570 that may receive the end of a tube and allow a fluid to be poured into a tube or removed from the head unit 560 through an opening 571 of FIG. 5D which is in fluid communication with the second circular recess 570.The headunit 560 also defines four openings (572, 573, 574, 575) which may accommodate a portion of a clamp or other device. In some embodiments, a pipe may include a cap, and the cap may be welded to, clamped to, or included in a headunit (e.g., a cap and a headunit are integral parts of a single object). Therefore, a sealant may not be included. In some embodiments, the device also includes a second head unit defining the first opening, the first fastener having a first end and a second end, wherein the first fastener is slidably disposed in the first opening and the second end of the first fastener is fixedly mounted on the applicator, and the first elastically compressible device is disposed between the second head unit and the first end and / or the second end of the first fastener. In some embodiments, the device also includes a second head unit defining a first and a second opening, the first attachment having a first and a second end, wherein the first attachment is slidably received in the first opening and a second end of the first attachment is fixedly connected to the applicator, the second attachment having a first end and a second end, wherein the second attachment is slidably received in the second opening, and a second end of the first attachment is fixedly connected to the applicator. A first elastically compressible device is disposed between the second head unit and the first and / or second ends of the first attachment, and a second elastically compressible device is disposed between the second head unit and the first and / or second ends of the second attachment, wherein the second ends of the tube and the second head unit are in contact with each other. In some embodiments, the device includes a third opening defined by a second head unit, a third fastener having a first end and a second end, wherein the third fastener is slidably disposed in the opening, and the second end of the third fastener is fixedly mounted on the applicator, and a third elastic compressible device is disposed between the second head unit and the first and / or second ends of the third fastener. In some embodiments, the device includes a fourth opening defined by the second head unit, a fourth fastener having first and second ends, wherein the fourth fastener is slidably disposed in the fourth opening, and the second end of the fourth fastener is fixedly mounted on the applicator, and a fourth elastically compressible device disposed between the second head unit and the first and / or second ends of the fourth fastener. The first, second, third, and fourth elastic compressible devices may be the same or different from those selected for the first head unit. In some embodiments, the first, second, third, or fourth elastic compressible devices include one or more disc springs slidably mounted on the first, second, third, or fourth bracket of the second head unit, respectively. In some embodiments, the device includes 1 to 1000, 1 to 750, 1 to 500, 1 to 250, 1 to 100, 1 to 50, 1 to 25, or 2 to 24 disc springs slidably mounted on a first, second, third, or fourth bracket of the second headunit, respectively. The second head unit may contact a portion of the tube, such as a second end of the tube. The second head unit may include a second seal, wherein a portion of a tube, such as a second end (e.g., a second cap) of a tube, contacts the second seal. The second seal may include any known seal and may be selected to prevent or eliminate the possibility of fluid leakage and / or to resist one or more parameters of the method, such as pressure. In some embodiments, the second seal includes rubber. For example, the second seal may include a rubber ring, which ring is circular, and is substantially cylindrical when a portion of the tube, such as a second end (e.g., a second cap), contacts the second head unit. In some embodiments, the second seal includes metal, such as a metal ring. In some embodiments, the second head unit includes a recess configured to receive a portion of a tube, such as a second end of the tube (e.g., a second cap). The second head unit, if present, may be positioned in the recess. In some embodiments, the second head unit includes a recess configured to receive at least a portion of a sealant, and a head unit is positioned in the recess of the second head unit. In some embodiments, the tube (e.g., a cap) includes a recess configured to receive at least a portion of a sealant, and the sealant is positioned in the recess of the tube. In some embodiments, the second head unit includes a recess configured to receive a first portion of the sealant, and a tube (e.g., a cap) includes a recess configured to receive a second portion of the sealant, and the sealant is positioned in the recesses of the second head unit and the tube. The second head unit may typically have any shape that can accommodate openings and contact a tube. The second head unit may typically have any shape that can accommodate openings and contact a tube. Views of opposite sides of an embodiment of a device are shown in Figs. 6A and 6B and an end view of the device is shown in Fig. 6C. The device 600 includes (i) a reservoir 610 of an eight-chamber microwave applicator, and (ii) eight microwave generators 620 positioned to introduce microwaves through a waveguide 621 and into each chamber of the reservoir 610. A tube 630 is located in the reservoir 610. Although not depicted, the reservoir 610 of Figs. 6A and 6B can include one or more additional tubes positioned in the reservoir 610. Alternatively or in addition, the reservoir 610, although not depicted, can define a second set of openings in which one or more additional tubes are arranged. The tube 630 is connected to the reservoir 610 by two headunits 500 shown in FIG. 5A. Eight fasteners 640 are used in this embodiment, and each of the eight fasteners 640 is slidably received in a separate opening (530, 531, 532, 533) of the headunits 500.The eight clamps 640 of this embodiment have bolts having a threaded end that is mounted on the tank, and a second end 641 that has a larger design to hold eight pairs of disc springs 650 that are slidably mounted on each of the clamps 640 between the head units 500 and the second ends 641 of the clamps 640. The device of Figures 6A and 6B may also, as described herein, be arranged at any angle from 0 degrees (as shown) to 90 degrees during operation, thus allowing the device to operate in either the up-flow or down-flow mode. In some embodiments, the device includes a head unit that is fixedly mounted to the applicator. In some embodiments, the device includes a first head unit and a second head unit, and one or both of the first and second head units are fixedly mounted to the applicator. For example, the embodiment of the head unit shown in FIG. 5A may be fixedly mounted on an applicator as shown in FIG. 7. FIG. 7 shows a right side view of the reservoir 610 of FIG. 6A, but with a fixed head unit 500 of FIG. 5A. The device 700 of FIG. 7 includes the reservoir 610 of FIG. 6A, and a second head unit 500 fixedly mounted to the reservoir by fasteners 740 slidably received in apertures (531, 533 (shown), 530, 532 (not shown)) of the head unit 500. The fasteners have a threaded end (not shown) connected to the reservoir 610 and a larger end that holds the head unit 500. The left side of the device of FIG. 7 is identical to the left side of FIG. 6A. The embodiment of the head unit shown in FIG. 5A may be fixedly mounted on an applicator as shown in FIG. 8. FIG. 8 shows a right side view of the reservoir 610 of FIG. 6A, but with a fixed head unit 500 of FIG. 5A. The device 800 of FIG. 8 includes a reservoir 610 of FIG. 6A, and a second head unit 500 fixedly mounted to a spool 800 by fasteners 740 that are flushly located in openings (531, 533 (shown), 530, 532 (not shown)) of the head unit 500. The spool 800 is instead mounted to the applicator by fasteners 801. The fasteners 740 have a threaded end (not shown) connected to the pulley 800 and an enlarged end that holds the head unit 500. The left side of the device of FIG. 7 is the same as the left side of FIG. 6A. In some embodiments (not shown), a resilient device (e.g., one or more disc springs) is mounted on each of the fasteners 740 at a position between the pulley 800 and the second head unit 500. The embodiment of the head unit shown in FIGS. 5B and 5C may be fixedly mounted on an applicator as shown in FIG. 9A. FIG. 9A shows a right side view of the reservoir 610 of FIG. 6A, but with (i) the tube 160 of FIG. 1F in the reservoir 610 and (ii) the head unit 540 of FIGS. 5B and 5C fixedly mounted on the reservoir 610. The device 810 of FIG. 9A includes the reservoir 610 of FIG. 6A, and a second head unit 540 fixedly mounted to the reservoir 610 by fasteners 740 slidably received in apertures (543, 545 (shown), 542, 544 (not shown)) of the head unit 540. The flange 167 of the cap 165 of the tube 160 contacts the head unit 540 and a circular seal (e.g., a metal ring (not shown)) located in a first circular recess 541 (not shown). The seal of Figure 9A also includes a clamp 811 that contacts the flange 167 of the cap 165. The clamp 811 is fixedly mounted to the head unit 540 by fasteners 812 slidably disposed in the openings (550, 552 (shown), 549, 551 (not shown)). A series of disc springs 813 are slidably disposed on the fasteners 812. The clamps (740, 812) have threaded ends (not shown) that are connected to the reservoir 610 and the clamp 811, respectively, and an enlarged end has dimensions larger than the corresponding openings of the head unit 54. The left side of the device of FIG. 9A is identical to the left side of FIG. 6A. In some embodiments, the device depicted in FIG. 9A includes one or more elastically compressible devices positioned between the head unit 540 and the enlarged ends of the clamps 740.In some embodiments, the device depicted in FIG. 9A includes a pulley, such as the pulley of FIG. 8, disposed between the head unit 540 and the reservoir 610. When a pulley is included, one or more elastically compressible devices may be slidably positioned on one or more fasteners 740 at a position between the pulley and the head unit 540. In some embodiments, the device depicted in FIG. 9A includes a shielding material, such as a microwave shielding material, disposed between the head unit 540 and the reservoir 610 (see, for example, FIG. 9B). In some embodiments, one or more enlarged ends of the fasteners 740 are welded or soldered to the head unit 540. Although the clamp 811 shown in FIG. 9A contacts only a portion of the flange 167, a clamp generally may contact one or all of a flange or other features of a cap. The embodiment of the headunit shown in FIGS. 5B and 5C may be fixedly mounted on an applicator as shown in FIG. 9B. FIG. 9B includes components similar to FIG. 9A, as well as a spacer block 743, which may act as a shielding material, such as a microwave shielding material. The spacer block 743 includes openings configured to receive the tube 163, the cap 165, and the fasteners 740, and in some embodiments, is a metal spacer block. The fasteners 740 include enlarged portions 741 that maintain a gap between the spacer block 743 and the reservoir 610. In some embodiments, a spacer block or other protective material may be connected to a reservoir, such as reservoir 610 of FIG. 9B. The apparatus depicted in FIG. 9B also includes a series of disc springs 742 slidably mounted on brackets 740 between the spacer block 743 and the second head unit 540. The disc springs 742 may accommodate expansion of the first head unit 540 and / or the spacer block 743, which may occur during the methods provided herein. The embodiment of the head unit shown in FIGS. 5D and 5E may be fixedly mounted on an applicator as shown in FIG. 10. FIG. 10 shows a left side view of the reservoir 610 of FIG. 6A but with (i) the tube 160 of FIG. 1F located in the reservoir 610 and (ii) the head unit 560 of FIGS. 5D and 5E spring-mounted on the reservoir 610. The device 820 of FIG. 10 includes the reservoir 610 of FIG. 6A, and a first head unit 560 spring-mounted to the reservoir 610 by means of fasteners 740 in openings (566, 568 (shown), 567, 569 (not shown)) slidably located in a plate 562 of the head unit 560. The flange 167 of the cap 165 of the tube 160 is connected to (i) a portion of the head unit 561 adapted to receive the tube 160 and (ii) an annular seal (e.g., a metal or rubber ring (not shown)) positioned within a first annular recess 565 (not shown). The seal of FIG. 10 also includes a clamp 821 that is connected to the flange 167 of the cap 165. The clamp 821 is fixedly mounted to the head unit 560 by fasteners 822 that are slidably arranged in the openings (572, 574 (shown), 573, 575 (not shown). The clamps (740, 822) have threaded ends (not shown) that are connected to the reservoir 610 and the clamp 821, respectively, and have enlarged ends with dimensions larger than the corresponding openings in the plate 562 of the head unit 560. The device 820 shown in FIG. 10 includes eight pairs of disc springs 823 that are slidably arranged on the clamps 740 between the plate 562 of the head unit 560 and the enlarged ends of the clamps 740. The right side of the device of FIG. 10 may be the same as that of FIG. 9A or 9B. In some embodiments, the device depicted in FIG. 10 includes a pulley, such as the pulley of FIG. 8, that is positioned between the head unit 560 and the reservoir 610. When a spool is included, one or more elastically compressible devices may be slidably positioned on one or more fasteners 740 at a position between the spool and the head unit 560. In some embodiments, the device shown in FIG. 10 includes a shielding material, such as a microwave shielding material, positioned between the head unit 560 and the reservoir 610. Although the clip 821 shown in FIG. 10 contacts only a portion of the flange 167, a clip generally may contact any or all of the flanges or other features of a cap. In some embodiments, a head unit is fixedly mounted on a pipe, for example, (i) a first head unit may be fixedly mounted to a first end of the pipe, (ii) a second head unit may be fixedly mounted to a second end of the pipe, or (iii) the first head unit may be fixedly mounted to the first end of the pipe and the second head unit may be fixedly mounted to the second end of the pipe. A head unit can be fixedly mounted on a pipe by welding at least a portion of a head unit to at least a portion of a pipe. For example, when a pipe includes a metal cap (e.g., a KOVAR® alloy metal cap), the metal cap may be welded to a head unit. In some embodiments, (i) a first hedonite is welded to the first end of the pipe, (ii) a second hedonite is welded to the second end of the pipe, or (iii) the first hedonite is welded to the first end of the pipe and the second hedonite is welded to the second end of the pipe. An applicator may generally be made of any material, including a material capable of holding microwaves. In some embodiments, the applicator is comprised of a metal, such as stainless steel. An applicator may have outer walls and / or inner walls (e.g., reservoir dividers) of any thickness. In some embodiments, the outer walls and / or inner walls have a thickness of about 0.0002 m to about 0.05 m, about 0.0005 m to about 0.05 m, about 0.001 m to about 0.04 m, about 0.002 m to about 0.03 m, about 0.0. m to about 0.02 m, about 0.002 m to about 0.01 m, about 0.002 m to about 0.05 m, about 0.002 m to about 0.005 m, about 0.003 m to about 0.004 m, or about 0.003 m to about 0.0032 m. A tank and the chamber(s) of a tank may generally be of any dimensions. If a tank includes two or more chambers, each chamber may have the same dimensions or different dimensions. The chamber of a tank or modular unit may be a polygonal chamber (e.g., a square, rectangular, triangular, etc. cross-section) or a non-polygonal chamber (e.g., a circular, elliptical, etc. cross-section). A tank and / or chamber in a tank or modular unit may be configured as a multi-mode chamber or a single-mode chamber (e.g., dimensions). A tank and / or chamber in a tank or modular unit may be configured such that at least a portion of the electromagnetic waves, such as a plurality of microwaves, are directed into a tube or an absorbent material in a tube, which may improve heating efficiency. In some embodiments, the applicators may include one or more sensors. The one or more sensors may include a temperature sensor, such as an infrared temperature sensor. A temperature sensor may be used to monitor or determine the temperature of a tube, such as the external temperature of a tube. One or more applicator housings may include a temperature sensor, which may allow for determining and / or monitoring a temperature gradient along the tube. As fluid passing through the tube is heated, the temperature of the tube may increase from the first end to the second end. By monitoring or determining this gradient, adjustments may be made to control the temperature gradient in any desired manner. One or more sensors may include a distance detection sensor. One or more sensors may be in communication with a controller that adjusts one or more parameters of a component, such as a microwave generator, a device or system in response to data collected by one or more sensors. For example, a controller may adjust one or more parameters (such as power, frequency, etc.) of a microwave generator in response to data collected from one or more sensors, such as a temperature sensor. Structure of electronic wave propagation In some embodiments, the devices provided herein include an electromagnetic wave emitting structure. The electromagnetic wave emitting structure may be configured to introduce electromagnetic waves into an interior volume of a container (e.g., a tube) to irradiate absorbent particles contained within the interior volume. In some embodiments, the electromagnetic wave propagation structure includes an electromagnetic wave transparent portion of the container (e.g., tube) through which electromagnetic waves can pass from the exterior of the container to the interior volume of the container (e.g., tube). In some embodiments, the reservoir, as described herein, includes a tubular section formed of an electromagnetic wave transparent material that forms the electromagnetic wave transparent portion of the reservoir. In some embodiments, the electromagnetic wave propagation structure includes an applicator for directing electromagnetic waves through the electromagnetic wave transparent portion into the internal volume. The vessel (e.g., pipe), as described herein, may include two metal end caps, one attached to each end of the tubular section. The tubular section may be a monolithic tubular section, such as described herein. In some embodiments, the electromagnetic wave emitting structure is at least partially contained within the reservoir (e.g., tube). Absorbent materials As used herein, the term "absorbent material" refers to a material that converts electromagnetic energy, such as microwaves, into heat. An absorbent material may include a metal, a semimetal, a dielectric, or a combination thereof. An absorbent material may include a metal oxide, such as iron oxide. In some embodiments, the absorbent material includes silicon carbide. In some embodiments, the absorbent material includes silicon carbide, magnetite, zeolite, quartz, ferrite, carbon black, graphite, granite, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the absorbent material includes magnetite. In some embodiments, the absorbent material includes magnetite in an amount of at least 25%, at least 50%, at least 75%, or 100% by weight, based on the weight of the absorbent material. For example, the absorbent material may include (i) magnetite in an amount of at least 25%, at least 50%, at least 75% by weight, based on the weight of the absorbent material, and (ii) a filler and / or second absorbent material, such as an iron oxide other than magnetite.In some embodiments, the absorbent material comprises a metal, a semi-metal, a dielectric, or a combination thereof in an amount of at least 5%, at least 10%, at least 15%, at least 20%, at least 25%, at least 50%, at least 75%, or 100% by weight, based on the weight of the absorbent material. An absorbent material may be in any form. For example, an absorbent material may be in the form of particles, a monolithic form, or a combination thereof. When the absorbent particles are in the form of microparticles, the particles may or may not be physically connected to each other. An absorbent material may include a porous material, such as a plurality of porous particles of an absorbent material. An absorbent material may include a porous material, such as porous particles of an absorbent material and / or a porous monolith of an absorbent material. In some embodiments, an absorbent material is in a form that allows a liquid to be poured into and / or passed through a tube. In some embodiments, an absorbent material is in a form that allows a liquid or other material outside the tube to be heated. For example, a fluid or material, such as a fabric, may contact the outer surface of a tube and thereby heat the fluid or material. When an adsorbent is in the form of particles, the particles may be of uniform size or non-uniform size; and the particles may be of any regular or irregular shape (e.g., spherical, branched, chipped, needle-shaped, etc.). When in the form of fine particles, the adsorbent material may have an average largest dimension of about 1 nm to about 10 mm, about 5 nm to about 10 mm, about 10 nm to about 10 mm, about 50 nm to about 10 mm, about 100 nm to about 10 mm, about 500 nm to about 10 mm, about 1 μm to about 10 mm, about 25 μm to about 10 mm, about 75 μm to about 10 mm, about 0.1 mm to about 10 mm, about 0.5 mm to about 10 mm, about 0.5 mm to about 8 mm, about 0.5 mm to about 7 mm, about 0.1 mm to about 5 mm, about 0.5 mm to about 5 mm, about 0.5 mm to about 10 about 4 mm, about 0.5 mm to about 3 mm, or about 0.5 mm to about 2 mm. In some embodiments, the adsorbent is in the form of particles and the adsorbent has an average largest dimension of about 1 nm to about 50 nm, about 3 nm to about 40 nm, or about 3 nm to about 35 nm. For example, the adsorbent may comprise Fe3O4 nanoparticles with an average diameter of about 3 nm to about 32 nm. The adsorbent may comprise nanoparticles synthesized by any known method, such as a seedless thermolysis method (see, e.g., Mohapatra, J. et al. Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys., 2018, 20, 12879-12887). When the particles of an adsorbent are substantially spherical, the average largest dimension is the average largest diameter. Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory, it is believed that the choice of particle size of an adsorbent material may alter one or more characteristics of the available methods, such as heating efficiency, pressure drop, etc., so the particle size may be chosen accordingly. An internal reservoir of a tube may contain any amount of absorbent material. In some embodiments, an absorbent material in an internal reservoir of a tube (or a portion of the internal reservoir tube if one or more retention devices are present and thus, defines the available portion) is present in an amount of about 30% to about 100% of the volume of the internal reservoir or accessible portion thereof, about 50 to 100% of the volume of the internal reservoir or accessible portion thereof, about 70% to about 100% of the volume of the internal reservoir or accessible portion thereof, about 90% to 100% of the volume of the internal reservoir or accessible portion thereof, or about 100% of the volume of the internal reservoir or accessible portion thereof. In some embodiments, an inner reservoir is a tube containing an amount of absorbent material that allows a liquid to be poured into the tube. In some embodiments, an absorbent material in an inner reservoir of a tube (or a portion of the inner reservoir tube if one or more retention devices are present and thus, defines the available portion) is in an amount of about 30% to about 90% of the volume of the inner reservoir or accessible portion thereof, about 30% to about 80% of the volume of the inner reservoir or accessible portion thereof, about 30% to about 70% of the volume of the inner reservoir or accessible portion thereof, about 40% to 60% of the volume of the inner reservoir or accessible portion thereof, or about 50% of the volume of the inner reservoir or accessible portion thereof. When an absorbent material is in the form of a monolith, the absorbent material monolith may generally be of any size or shape that (i) provides for its placement in a tube or chamber within a tube, (ii) a fluid to pass through the tube, or (iii) a combination thereof. In some embodiments, a monolith of an absorbent material comprises one or more elongated monoliths with a length:width ratio of at least 3:1 (e.g., cylindrical), thereby forming a “tube-in-a-tube” configuration, in which a fluid may pass through an area defined at least in part by an outer surface of the elongated monolith and an inner surface of the tube. In some embodiments, two or more elongated monoliths are arranged, in any shape, in a tube. In some embodiments, the absorbent monolith has a size or shape that matches the dimensions of an internal reservoir of a tube or existing section thereof, which may be desirable when a tube is configured to heat a fluid or material outside of a tube (e.g., a fluid or material in contact with the outer surface of a tube). In some embodiments, the one or more monoliths comprise one or more capsule-shaped monoliths with a length:width ratio of less than 3:1 (e.g., spherical, rectangular, square, or elliptical) arranged side by side in any configuration. A tube When two or more monoliths are present in a tube, the two or more monoliths may be arranged in a tube in any regular or irregular pattern. An embodiment of a tube is shown in FIG. 1I (side view). The tube 180 of FIG. 1I is generally cylindrical and has a first end 181 and a second end 182. The tube 180 includes a middle section 183 formed of a microwave transparent material, a first cap 184 at the first end 181, and a second cap 185 at the second end 182. The first cap 184 and the second cap 185 may optionally include an inlet and an outlet, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 1B and 1C. Alternative cross-sectional views of the tube 180 of FIG. 1I are shown in FIGS. IJ and IK. In some embodiments, the tube 180 has a cross-sectional view as shown in FIG. 1J. Figure 1J shows a chamber 186 in which particles of an absorbent material 187 are disposed, and a channel 188 between the chamber 186 and the interior surface of the tube 180 through which a fluid may flow when the tube 180 includes an inlet and an outlet. In some embodiments, the tube 180 has a cross-sectional view as shown in Figure 1K. Figure 1K shows an arrangement of cylindrical monoliths of material 189 arranged in the tube 180.When the tube 180 includes an inlet and an outlet, fluid may flow in the channel 190, which includes the spaces between and between the cylindrical monoliths of absorbent material 189 and the interior surface of the tube 180. In some embodiments (not shown), one or more monoliths of absorbent material 189 are placed in the chamber 186 of FIG. 1J. An absorbent material may include one or more additives. The one or more additives may include any material, such as a filler, that (i) is present in a tube of absorbent material (e.g., uniformly or nonuniformly dispersed in the absorbent material) and (ii) is not capable of converting a large number of microwaves into heat. A filler may be included for any reason, including to facilitate handling of an absorbent material, to reduce resistance to fluid flow in a tube, to achieve a differential dispersion of an absorbent material in a tube, etc. A filler may be used to achieve a concentration gradient of a sensitive material in a tube. For example, a filler may allow a liquid poured into a tube to be exposed to a concentration or amount of absorbent material that increases (or decreases) continuously or intermittently as the liquid passes through the tube. The one or more additives may be present in an absorbent material in a total amount not exceeding 50% by weight, based on the weight of the absorbent material. In other words, if an absorbent material contains two additives with a mass of 100 grams, the total mass of the two additives will not exceed 50 grams.In some embodiments, one or more additives are present in a receiving material in an amount of about 0.001% to 10% by weight, based on the weight of the receiving material. Microwave generators Any known microwave generator may be incorporated into the apparatus or used in the methods described herein. When an apparatus includes two or more microwave generators, the two or more microwave generators may be the same or different. When an apparatus includes two or more microwave generators, the two or more microwave generators may operate with the same or different parameters (e.g., power, frequency, wavelength, etc.) during the methods described herein. The one or more microwave generators may include magnetron continuous wave (CW) or pulsed microwave generators, solid state fixed frequency or variable frequency microwave generators, or combinations thereof. The one or more microwave generators may generally operate at any power (e.g., 200 W to 100 kW) and / or at any frequency (e.g., 915 MHz to 28 GHz) and / or wavelength (1 mm to 1 m). The one or more microwave generators may include commercially available microwave generators, such as SAIREM® microwave generators (Décines-Charpiue, France). The one or more microwave generators may include one or more microwave generators selected from the following table: Visualization number Power frequency type 1 Magnetron CW or Pulse 2.45 GHz 2 kW 2 Magnetron CW or Pulse 2.45 GHz 3 kW 3 Magnetron CW or Pulse 2.45 GHz 6 kW 4 Solid State Fixed or Variable Freq. 2.45 GHz 200 W 5 Solid State Fixed or Variable Freq. 2.45 GHz 450 W 6 Magnetron CW or Pulse 915 MHz 18 kW 7 Magnetron CW or Pulse 915 MHz 36 kW 8 Magnetron CW or Pulse 915 MHz 54 kW 9 Magnetron CW or Pulse 915 MHz 72 kW 10 Magnetron CW or Pulse 915 MHz 75 kW 11 Magnetron CW or Pulse 915 MHz 100 kW 12 Solid State Fixed or Variable Freq. 915 MHz 600 W In some embodiments, the one or more microwave generators include one to ten microwave generators independently selected from embodiments 1 to 12 of the table above. Materials and methods The devices provided herein may be used to perform a method of heating a material, such as a fluid, a solid, or a combination thereof. These methods may include passing a fluid through a tube containing an absorbent material that is irradiated with electromagnetic waves. These methods may include arranging a material, such as a solid or fluid, in proximity to a tube containing an absorbent material irradiated with electromagnetic waves. A fluid or a portion thereof may be passed through a tube one or more times to reach a desired temperature. The fluid heated by the apparatus and methods herein may be collected and used in any manner, such as to provide heat for a further process. In some embodiments, the methods include contacting a fluid with a heated adsorbent material, such as adsorbent particles, to heat the fluid at a rate of at least 100 °C / min, at least 200 °C / min, at least 300 °C / min, at least 400 °C / min, or at least 500 °C / min. The methods may involve a batch process or a continuous process. In some embodiments, step (b) includes flowing the fluid through a volume of heated adsorbent particles. In some embodiments, steps (a) and (b) are performed in a common chamber (e.g., tube) that receives the adsorbent particles and the fluid. In some embodiments, the methods include providing an apparatus as described herein; placing fluid at the inlet of a chamber (e.g., tube) at a flow rate; introducing a plurality of electromagnetic waves into the applicator to irradiate at least a portion of the receiving material with the plurality of electromagnetic waves to generate heat while the fluid is in the tube to produce a heated fluid; and collecting the heated fluid at the outlet of the tube. In some embodiments, the methods also include (i) placing at least a portion of the heated fluid at the inlet of the tube; (ii) introducing a plurality of electromagnetic waves into the applicator to irradiate at least a portion of the receiving material with the plurality of electromagnetic waves to generate heat while the heated fluid is in the tube to produce more heated fluid; and (iii) collecting more heated fluid at the outlet of the tube. Steps (i) through (iii) may be repeated one or more times to produce more heated fluid at an increased temperature. In some embodiments, the method also includes reducing the temperature of the heated fluid by at least 5% before the heated fluid is placed in the inlet. The steps of the methods described herein may be performed simultaneously, in full sequence, or in a combination thereof. A fluid may have any desired residence time in a chamber (e.g., tube). A fluid may have a residence time of no more than 10 minutes, 8 minutes, 5 minutes, 3 minutes, or 1 minute. In some embodiments, the fluid has a residence time of 0.1 to 5 minutes. As used herein, the term "residence time" refers to (i) the time a fluid spends in a chamber (e.g., tube) during the passage of the fluid through the chamber, when the process is continuous, or (ii) the time the fluid maintains contact with the heated adsorbent particles. A fluid may be placed in a tube or passed through a volume of absorbent material at any flow rate. The flow rate may be selected based on a number of parameters, such as the size of a tube, etc. In some embodiments, the flow rate is about 0.1 liters per minute to about 1000 liters per minute. In some embodiments, the flow rate is about 0.1 liters per minute to about 750 liters per minute. In some embodiments, the flow rate is about 0.1 liters per minute to about 500 liters per minute. In some embodiments, the flow rate is about 0.1 liters per minute to about 250 liters per minute. In some embodiments, the flow rate is about 0.1 liters per minute to about 100 liters per minute. In some embodiments, the flow rate is about 0.1 liters per minute to about 50 liters per minute. In some embodiments, the flow rate is about 0.1 liters per minute to about 25 liters per minute. In some embodiments, the flow rate is about 0.1 liters per minute to about 10 liters per minute. In some embodiments, the flow rate is about 0.1 liters per minute to about 5 liters per minute. In some embodiments, the flow rate is about 0.2 liters per minute to about 3 liters per minute. In some embodiments, the flow rate is about 0.2 liters per minute to about 1.2 liters per minute. In some embodiments, the flow rate is about 900 liters per minute to about 1000 liters per minute. In some embodiments, the flow rate is about 800 liters per minute to about 1000 liters per minute. In some embodiments, the flow rate is about 700 liters per minute to about 1000 liters per minute. In some embodiments, the flow rate is about 600 liters per minute to about 1000 liters per minute. In some embodiments, the flow rate is about 500 liters per minute to about 1000 liters per minute. In some embodiments, the flow rate is about 400 liters per minute to about 1000 liters per minute. In some embodiments, the flow rate is about 300 liters per minute to about 1000 liters per minute. In some embodiments, the flow rate is about 250 liters per minute to about 1000 liters per minute. In some embodiments, the flow rate is about 200 liters per minute to about 1000 liters per minute. In some embodiments, the flow rate is about 100 liters per minute to about 1000 liters per minute. In some embodiments, the flow rate is about 75 liters per minute to about 1000 liters per minute. In some embodiments, the flow rate is about 50 liters per minute to about 1000 liters per minute. In some embodiments, the flow rate is about 10 liters per minute to about 1000 liters per minute. In some embodiments, the flow rate is at least 5 liters per minute, at least 10 liters per minute, at least 15 liters per minute, or at least 20 liters per minute. As used herein, the term "flow rate" refers to the flow rate at which a fluid is placed at the inlet of a pipe. As the temperature of the fluid increases, the viscosity of the fluid may decrease, thereby increasing the likelihood of an increase in flow rate. An apparatus or method may include one or more features that accommodate this phenomenon and / or counteract the tendency for flow rate to increase. Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory, the mass flow rate of a fluid may remain constant even though the volumetric flow rate may change due to changes in viscosity and / or other reasons. A fluid may be provided to a chamber (e.g., a tube) by any known means. For example, a pump, such as a diaphragm pump or a centrifugal pump, may be used to place a fluid in a tube. In some embodiments, a pump, such as a positive displacement pump, is used to place a fluid in a tube at a flow rate. In some embodiments, a valve is used to provide a desired flow rate to the fluid in a tube. Any pressure may be present within a chamber (e.g., tube) in all or part of the methods provided herein. In some embodiments, the pressure within the chamber (e.g., tube) is less than or equal to the critical pressure of the fluid. In some embodiments, the pressure within the tube is greater than the critical pressure of the fluid. In some embodiments, the pressure within the tube is at least 1%, at least 5%, at least 10%, at least 25%, or at least 50% greater than the critical pressure of the fluid. In some cases, the pressure within the chamber (e.g., tube) is about 1% to about 50%, about 5% to about 50%, about 10% to about 50%, or about 25% to about 50% greater than the critical pressure of the fluid. This parameter may eliminate or reduce the likelihood of the liquid fluid converting to the gas phase. A fluid may be maintained at a pressure above its critical pressure before, during, and after being poured into a chamber (e.g., tube). In some embodiments, a fluid is pressurized (i) before being poured into a chamber (e.g., tube), (ii) during and / or after being collected at a second end of the chamber (e.g., tube), or (iii) a combination thereof. Thus, a heated fluid or a further heated fluid may be maintained at a pressure that is greater than its critical pressure after the fluid is collected for further use. For example, when a method involves flowing fluid through a volume of heated sorbent particles, the flow of fluid through the volume of heated sorbent particles can be carried out at an elevated pressure to prevent evaporation of the liquid. In some embodiments, the pressure within a chamber (e.g., tube) in all or part of the methods provided herein is about 1 bar to about 250 bar, about 1.1 bar to about 250 bar, about 5 bar to about 250 bar, about 5 bar to about 225 bar, about 5 bar to about 200 bar, about 5 bar to about 150 bar, about 5 bar to about 100 bar, or about 10 bar to about 100 bar. In some embodiments, the pressure within a chamber (e.g., tube) in all or part of the methods provided herein is at least 2 bar, at least 5 bar, at least 10 bar, at least 25 bar, at least 50 bar, at least 100 bar, at least 150 bar, or at least 200 bar. When a fluid is poured into a pipe, the ambient temperature may be greater than the freezing point of the fluid. In some embodiments, a fluid when first poured into a pipe has a temperature of about 15°C to about 35°C. In some embodiments, a fluid when first poured into a pipe has a temperature of about 20°C to about 30°C. In some embodiments, the heated fluid or further heated fluid has a temperature of about 50°C to about 1500°C, about 100°C to about 1250°C, about 100°C to about 1000°C, about 100°C to about 1000°C.up to about 900°C, about 100°C to about 800°C, about 100°C to about 700°C, about 100°C to about 600°C, about 100°C to about 500°C, about 200°C to about 500°C, about 300°C to about 500°C, or about 400°C to about 500°C. In some embodiments, the heated fluid or further heated fluid has a temperature of about 100°C to about 600°C, about 200°C to about 600°C, about 300°C to about 600°C, about 400°C to about 600°C, or about 500°C to about 600°C.In some embodiments, the heated fluid or further heated fluid has a temperature of about 100°C to about 700°C, about 200°C to about 700°C, about 300°C to about 700°C, about 400°C to about 700°C, about 500°C to about 700°C, about 600°C to about 700°C. In some embodiments, the methods provided herein heat the fluid to at least 200°C, at least 250°C, at least 300°C, at least 400°C, or at least 500°C. In some embodiments, an absorbent material irradiated with electromagnetic radiation, as described herein, has a temperature of about 50°C to about 1500°C, about 100°C to about 1250°C, about 100°C to about 1000°C, about 100°C to about 900°C, about 100°C to about 800°C, about 100°C to about 700°C, about 100°C to about 600°C, about 100°C to about 500°C, about 200°C to about 500°C, about 300°C to about 500°C, about 400°C to about 500°C, about 250°C to about 1500°C, about 350°C to about 1500°C, about 450°C to about 1500°C, about 300°C to about 1000°C, about 300°C to about 800°C, or about 300°CCelsius to about 700 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, the methods provided herein heat the fluid primarily by direct heat exchange with a heated absorbent material. In other words, the majority (greater than 50%) of the heat or temperature increase transferred to the fluid results from direct heat exchange with a heated absorbent material. In some embodiments, less than 25%, less than 20%, less than 15%, less than 10%, or less than 5% of the heating of the fluid results from direct absorption of electromagnetic energy. The ability of a fluid to directly absorb electromagnetic energy may decrease as its temperature increases. For example, increasing temperature may decrease the dielectric constant of the fluid, thereby increasing the percentage of heating achieved by a radiated absorbent material. In some embodiments, the methods include providing an apparatus or system as described herein; placing a material in proximity to the tube; introducing a plurality of electromagnetic waves into the applicator to irradiate at least a portion of the absorbent material with the plurality of electromagnetic waves to generate heat while the material is in proximity to the tube to produce a heated material. The material may include a fluid, a solid, or a combination thereof. The devices and systems provided herein may be configured to provide for the placement of materials adjacent to a tube. For example, a tube may extend from an applicator at a suitable distance to position a material adjacent to a tube. An applicator may include a gap (e.g., a gap between compartments or modular units, a gap between a tube and an opening, etc.) that allows a material to be positioned adjacent to a tube. An applicator may include a chamber with one or more openings that allow a material to be positioned adjacent to a tube, and such chamber may or may not be associated with an electromagnetic wave generator. In some embodiments, arranging the material adjacent the tube includes contacting the tube with the material. For example, a liquid or a solid, such as a fabric or other flexible material, may contact the outer surface of a tube. In some embodiments, all or a portion of a ribbon or strip of a solid, such as a fabric or other flexible material, may be placed in contact with a tube. For example, a solid, such as a fabric or other flexible material, may be placed in contact with a tube as the fabric or other flexible material is pulled by one or more rollers or the like. As another example, a liquid may be configured to pass through a location adjacent a tube. A flowing liquid, in some embodiments, may contact the outer surface of a tube. Systems Also provided herein are systems that include the devices described herein, including systems that may be used to perform the methods described herein. In some embodiments, the systems include a fluid source, a pump or compressor, a heat exchanger, or a combination thereof. An embodiment of a system is shown in FIG. 11. System 900 includes a device (901, 902) having a first end 901 shown in FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C and a second end 902 shown in FIG. 8. System 900 also includes a fluid source 910 in fluid communication with a pump 920. Pump 920 provides fluid 950 from fluid source 910 to device (901, 902) which is heated to produce heated fluid 951. Heated fluid 951 may be collected in a reservoir 930. In some embodiments, heated fluid 951 is sent to another process or system 960 to provide heat to the process or system. At least a portion of the heated fluid 951 may be sent to a heat exchanger 940 to reduce its temperature before being provided to the device (901, 902) for further heating. The pump 920 may be configured to pressurize at least a portion of the system. For example, the pressure within the pipe may or may not exceed the critical pressure of the fluid.System 900 may be configured such that device 901 is positioned at any angle from 0 degrees (as shown) to 90 degrees during operation, thus allowing the device to operate in either a high or low flow mode. In other embodiments, the system of FIG. 11 includes any one or combination of the devices, features, and / or configurations of FIGS. 1A-K, 2A-D, 3A-B, 4A-D, 5A-E, 7, 8, 9A-B, 10, and / or 12A-I. The systems provided herein may include one or more sensing devices such as a pressure gauge, a flow meter, or a combination thereof. For example, a pressure gauge may be used to ensure that the pressure in at least a portion of a system is greater than the critical pressure of a fluid. A flow meter may be used, for example, to ensure the desired flow of a fluid or to monitor changes in flow rate, which may occur when heating of the fluid results in a decrease in the corresponding viscosity. is too long to be saved Fluid Any fluid may be heated by the methods described herein. In some embodiments, the fluid comprises an organic liquid. In some embodiments, the fluid comprises an inorganic liquid. In some embodiments, the fluid comprises an aqueous liquid. As used herein, the term "aqueous fluid" refers to a liquid that comprises water in an amount greater than 50% by weight. In some embodiments, the fluid comprises an ionic liquid. In some embodiments, the fluid comprises water and at least one organic liquid. In some embodiments, the fluid comprises water, at least one organic fluid, at least one inorganic liquid, at least one ionic liquid, or a combination thereof. The fluid may be a polar fluid, a non-polar fluid, or a combination thereof. A fluid may comprise one or more solids that may be dispersed and / or dissolved in the fluid. The fluid may be of any phase, such as a liquid phase, a gas phase, or a combination thereof. For example, the fluid may be in the liquid phase when poured into a tube, and the resulting heated fluid may be in the liquid phase, the gas phase, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the fluid comprises carbon dioxide.The organic fluid may be a hydrocarbon. As used herein, the term "hydrocarbon" refers to compounds having structures of carbon and hydrogen, and, if substituted, optionally one or more substituents. In some embodiments, the hydrocarbon is a C1-C40 hydrocarbon. In some embodiments, the hydrocarbon is a C1-C30 hydrocarbon. In some embodiments, the hydrocarbon is a C1-C20 hydrocarbon. As used herein, the terms "C1-C40 hydrocarbon", "C1-C30 hydrocarbon", "C1-C20 hydrocarbon" and the like generally refer to aliphatic hydrocarbons and / or aromatic hydrocarbons containing 1 to 40 carbon atoms, 1 to 30 carbon atoms, or 1 to 20 carbon atoms, respectively. Examples of C1-C40 hydrocarbons include, but are not limited to, an alkane, a cycloalkane, an alkene, a cycloalkene, an alkyne, a cycloalkyne, and the like, and include all substituted, unsubstituted, branched, and linear analogs or derivatives thereof, each having from 1 to 40 carbon atoms.Examples of cyclic aliphatic or aromatic hydrocarbons include, but are not limited to, anthracene, azulene, biphenyl, fluorene, indane, indene, phenanthrene, benzene, naphthalene, toluene, xylene, mesitylene, and the like and / or heteroatom-substituted derivatives thereof. Unless otherwise indicated, the term "substituted" when used to describe a chemical structure or moiety refers to a derivative of that structure or moiety in which one or more of its hydrogen atoms are replaced by a chemical moiety or functional group such as alcohol, alkoxy, alkanoyloxy, alkoxycarbonyl, alkenyl, alkyl, cycloalkyl, alkenyl, cycloalkenyl, alkynyl, cycloalkynyl, alkylcarbonyloxy (-OC(O)alkyl), amide (-C(O)NH-alkyl- or -alkylNHC(O)alkyl), tertiary amine (such as alkylamine, arylamine, arylalkylamine), aryl, arylalkyl, aryloxy, azo, carbamoyl (-NHC(O)O-alkyl- or OC(O)NH-alkyl), carbamyl (i.e. CONH2, also CONH-alkyl,CONH-aryl and CONH-arylalkyl), carboxyl, carboxylic acid, cyano, ester, ether (e.g., methoxy, ethoxy), halo, haloalkyl (e.g., -CCl3, -CF3, -C(CF3)3), heteroalkyl, isocyanate, isothiocyanate, nitrile, nitro, phosphodiester, sulfide, sulfonamido (e.g., SO2NH2, SO2NR'R”), sulfone, sulfonyl (including alkylsulfonyl, arylsulfonyl and arylalkylsulfonyl), sulfoxide, thiol (e.g., sulfhydryl, thioether) or urea, substituted., When a halohydrocarbon is substituted, the hydrocarbon may be partially or fully substituted with a halogen selected from fluorine, chlorine, bromine, iodine, or a combination thereof. When completely substituted with one or more types of halogen atoms, the compound may be referred to as a "perhalocarbon". For example, a fluoro-substituted hydrocarbon may be partially substituted with fluorine atoms, or completely substituted with fluorine atoms, and when completely substituted with fluorine atoms, the compound may be referred to as a perfluorocarbon. is too long to be savedExamples of alkyl groups include, but are not limited to, methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, n-butyl, t-butyl, isobutyl, pentyl, hexyl, isohexyl, heptyl, 4,4-dimethylpentyl, octyl, 2,2,4-trimethylpentyl, nonyl, decyl, undecyl, and dodecyl. Cycloalkyl moieties may be monocyclic or polycyclic, and examples include cyclopropyl, cyclobutyl, cyclopentyl, cyclohexyl, and adamantyl. Additional examples of alkyl moieties include linear, branched, and / or cyclic moieties (e.g., 1-ethyl-4-methyl-cyclohexyl). Representative alkenyl moieties include vinyl, allyl, 1-butenyl, 2-butenyl, isobutylenyl, 1-pentenyl, 2-pentenyl, 3-methyl-1-butenyl, 2-methyl-2-butenyl, 2,3-dimethyl-2-butenyl, 1-hexenyl, 2-hexenyl, 3-hexenyl, 1-heptenyl, 2-heptenyl, 3-heptenyl, 1-octenyl, 2-octenyl, 3-octenyl, 1-nonenyl, 2-nonenyl, 3-nonenyl, 1-decenyl, 2-decenyl and 3-decenyl.Representative alkynyl moieties include acetylenyl, propynyl, 1-butynyl, 2-butynyl, 1-pentynyl, 2-pentynyl, 3-methyl-1-butynyl, 4-pentynyl, 1-hexynyl, 2-hexynyl, 5-hexynyl, 1-heptynyl, 2-heptynyl, 6-heptynyl, 1-octynyl, 2-octynyl, 7-octynyl, 1-nonynyl, 2-nonynyl, 8-nonynyl, 1-decynyl, 2-decynyl, and 9-decynyl. Examples of aryl or arylalkyl moieties include, but are not limited to, anthracenyl, azolenyl, biphenyl, fluorenyl, indane, indenyl, naphthyl, phenanthrenyl, phenyl 1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-naphthalene, tolyl, xylyl, mesityl, benzyl, and the like, including any heteroatom substituted derivatives thereof. A fluid may include one or more additives. In some embodiments, one or more additives include a tracer, such as a dye. One or more additives may be present in a fluid in a total amount that does not exceed 10% by weight, based on the weight of the fluid. In other words, if a fluid includes two additives having a mass of 100 grams, the combined mass of the two additives will not exceed 10 grams. In some embodiments, one or more additives are present in a fluid in an amount of about 0.001% to 5% by weight, based on the weight of the fluid. All advertisements referenced herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety. In addition, to the extent that the definition or use of a term in a reference, which is incorporated by reference herein, conflicts or is inconsistent with the definition of that term provided herein, the definition of that term provided herein shall apply and the definition of that term in the reference shall not apply. While certain aspects of conventional technology have been discussed to facilitate the disclosure of various embodiments, Applicants do not in any way deny these technical aspects and it is contemplated that the present disclosure may include one or more aspects of the conventional technical aspects discussed herein. The present disclosure may address one or more of the problems and shortcomings of known methods and processes. However, it is contemplated that various embodiments may be useful in addressing other problems and shortcomings in some technical fields. Therefore, the present disclosure should not necessarily be construed as limited to addressing any specific problems or shortcomings discussed herein. In this description, when a document, act or piece of knowledge is referred to or discussed, such reference or discussion does not constitute an admission that the document, act or knowledge, or any combination thereof, was publicly available, publicly known, part of the common public knowledge, or otherwise prior art under applicable law, or was known to be relevant to the solution of any problem to which this description relates, on the priority date. In the description and specification provided herein, the terms “comprise,” “is,” “contain,” “have,” and “consist” are used in an open manner and should therefore be interpreted to mean “including, but not limited to.” When methods or apparatuses are claimed or described in terms of “comprising” different steps or components, the methods or apparatuses can also be essentially “comprising” or “consisting of” different steps or components, unless otherwise noted. The terms "a", "an" and "another" are intended to include plural substitutes, e.g., at least one. For example, the disclosure of "a liquid", "an absorbent", "a tube" and the like is intended to include a mixture or combination of more than one liquid, absorbent, tube and the like, unless otherwise specified. Various numerical ranges may be disclosed herein. When Applicant discloses or claims a range of any kind, Applicant intends to disclose or claim every possible number that such range could reasonably encompass, including the endpoints of the range as well as any subranges and combinations of subranges included separately, unless otherwise specified. Furthermore, all numerical endpoints of the ranges disclosed herein are approximate. For example, Applicant discloses in some embodiments that a tube has an inner diameter of about 30 mm to about 44 mm. This range should be interpreted as about 30 mm and about 44 mm, and further includes "about" 31 mm, 32 mm, 33 mm, 34 mm, 35 mm, 36 mm, 37 mm, 38 mm, 39 mm, 40 mm, 41 mm, 42 mm, and 43 mm, including ranges and subranges between each of these values. As used herein, the term "about" means plus or minus 10% of the numerical value of the number with which it is used. Sample visualizations The following embodiments are non-limiting examples of the devices, systems, and methods described herein. Other embodiments are also contemplated. Visualization 1. A device – (A) comprising a tube formed at least in part of an electromagnetically transparent material and an applicator; wherein (i) a first end of the tube is fixedly mounted or spring-loaded on the applicator, (ii) at least a portion of the tube is positioned within the applicator, or (iii) a combination thereof; or (B) comprising a tube formed at least in part of an electromagnetically transparent material; an absorbent material disposed within the tube; and an applicator, wherein (i) one end of the tube is fixedly mounted or spring-mounted on the applicator, and (ii) at least a portion of the tube and at least a portion of the absorbent material in the tube are disposed within the applicator; or (C) comprising a tube formed at least in part of an electromagnetically transparent material; an absorbent material disposed in the tube; and an applicator, wherein (i) one end of the tube is fixedly mounted or spring-mounted on the applicator, (ii) a second end of the tube is fixedly mounted or spring-mounted on the applicator, and (iii) at least a portion of the tube and at least a portion of the absorbent material in the tube are disposed in the applicator; or (D) For heating fluids with a plurality of receptor particles irradiated by electromagnetic energy, the apparatus comprising: a chamber defining an internal volume for receiving receptor particles; at least one holding device disposed in or adjacent to the internal volume and configured to retain the receptor particles in the internal volume while allowing fluid to exit the internal volume; and an electromagnetic wave emitting structure configured to introduce electromagnetic waves into the internal volume to irradiate the receptor particles contained in the internal volume; or (E) comprises a tube formed at least in part from an electromagnetically transparent material; and an applicator; wherein (i) at least a first portion of the tube protrudes from the applicator and (ii) at least a second portion of the tube is received in the applicator. Embodiment 2. The device of embodiment 1, wherein the tube includes an inlet and an outlet. Embodiment 3. The device of embodiment 1 or 2, further comprising one or more microwave generators, wherein the one or more microwave generators are positioned to introduce a plurality of microwaves into the applicator to expose at least a portion of the absorbent material to the plurality of microwaves. Embodiment 4. The device of any one of embodiments 1 to 3, wherein the electromagnetic wave transparent material comprises a microwave transparent material. Embodiment 5. The device of embodiment 4, wherein the microwave transparent material comprises a ceramic, a polymer, a glass, or a combination thereof. Embodiment 6. The device of embodiment 4, wherein the microwave transparent material comprises (i) alumina, (ii) fused silica, (iii) silicon nitride, (iv) a ceramic comprising silicon, aluminum, nitrogen, oxygen, or a combination thereof, or (v) a combination thereof. Embodiment 7. The device of any one of embodiments 1 to 6, wherein the tube has a monolithic structure. Embodiment 8. The apparatus of any one of embodiments 1 to 6, wherein the tube includes a first cap disposed at a first end of the tube, a second cap disposed at a second end of the tube, or a first and second cap disposed at the first end and second end of the tube, respectively. Embodiment 9. The device of embodiment 8, wherein the first cap, the second cap, or both the first and second caps are formed of a metal. Embodiment 10. The device of embodiment 9, wherein the metal comprises an alloy consisting of iron, cobalt, and nickel (e.g., a KOVAR® alloy). Embodiment 11. The device of embodiment 9 or 10, wherein a portion of the tube comprises a ceramic, and the first cap, the second cap, or both the first and second caps are bonded by a ceramic with a ceramic-to-metal bonding, an adhesive, or a combination thereof. Embodiment 12. The device of any one of embodiments 1 to 11, wherein (A) the absorbent material comprises a metal, a semimetal, a dielectric, or a combination thereof, or (B) the absorbent material comprises a metal, a semimetal, a dielectric, or a combination thereof in an amount of at least 5%, at least 10%, at least 15%, at least 20%, at least 25%, at least 50%, at least 75%, or 100%, by weight, based on the weight of the absorbent material. Embodiment 13. The device of any one of embodiments 1 to 12, wherein the adsorbent material comprises a metal oxide, such as an iron oxide. Embodiment 14. The apparatus of any one of embodiments 1 to 13, wherein the adsorbent material comprises silicon carbide, magnetite, zeolite, quartz, ferrite, carbon black, graphite, granite, or a combination thereof. Embodiment 15. The device of any one of embodiments 1 to 14, wherein (i) the first end of the tube is spring-mounted on the applicator, (ii) the second end of the tube is fixedly mounted on the applicator, (iii) the first end of the tube is spring-mounted to the applicator and the second end of the tube is fixedly mounted to the applicator, (iv) the first end of the tube is fixedly mounted to the applicator, (v) the second end of the tube is spring-mounted to the applicator, or (vi) the first end of the tube is spring-mounted to the applicator and the second end of the tube is spring-mounted to the applicator. Embodiment 16. The apparatus of Embodiment 15, wherein the first end of the tube is spring-mounted to the applicator, and the apparatus further comprises (i) a first head unit defining a first opening, a first fastener having a first and second end, wherein the first fastener is slidably positioned in the first opening, and the second end of the first fastener is fixedly mounted to the applicator, and a first elastically compressible device is positioned between the first head unit and the first and / or second ends of the first fastener, wherein the first end of the tube and the first head unit are in contact with each other; or (ii) a first head unit defining a first and a second opening, a first fastener having a first end and a second end, wherein the first fastener is slidably disposed in the first opening and the second end of the first fastener is fixedly mounted on the applicator, a second fastener having a first end and a second end, wherein the second fastener is slidably disposed in the second opening, and the second end of the first fastener is fixedly mounted to the applicator, a first elastic compressible device disposed between the first head unit and the first and / or second ends of the first fastener, and a second compressible devicewhich is located between the first headunit and the first end and / or second end of the second clamp, wherein the first end of the tube and the first headunit are in contact with each other. Embodiment 17. The device of embodiment 16, further comprising: a third opening defined by the first head unit; a third fastener having a first end and a second end, wherein the third fastener is slidably disposed in the third opening, and the second end of the third fastener is fixedly mounted to the applicator; and a third elastic compressible device disposed between the first head unit and the first end and / or the second end of the third fastener. Embodiment 18. The device of embodiment 17, further comprising: a fourth opening defined by the first head unit; a fourth fastener having a first end and a second end, wherein the fourth fastener is slidably disposed in the fourth opening, and the second end of the fourth fastener is fixedly mounted to the applicator; and a fourth elastically compressible device disposed between the first head unit and the first end and / or the second end of the fourth fastener. Embodiment 19. The device of any one of embodiments 16 to 18, wherein the first elastically compressible device, the second elastically compressible device, the third elastically compressible device, the fourth elastically compressible device, or a combination thereof comprises one or more disc springs mounted on the first, second, third, or fourth clamps, respectively. Embodiment 20. The device of any one of embodiments 16 to 18, wherein the first elastically compressible device, the second elastically compressible device, the third elastically compressible device, the fourth elastically compressible device, or a combination thereof comprises 1 to 24 disc springs mounted on the first, second, third, or fourth bracket, respectively. Embodiment 21. The device of any of embodiments 16 to 20, further comprising a first seal that provides a seal between the first headunit and the first end of the tube. Embodiment 22. The apparatus of embodiment 21, wherein the first seal comprises (i) rubber disposed between and in contact with the first headunit and the first end of the tube, (ii) a clamp and / or fastener that maintains contact between the first headunit and the first end of the tube, or (iii) a combination thereof. Embodiment 23. The apparatus of any one of embodiments 16 to 22, wherein the first headunit includes a recess configured to receive the first end of the tube. Embodiment 24. The device of any one of embodiments 16 to 23, wherein the device further comprises a second head unit fixedly mounted to the applicator; wherein the second end of the tube and the second head unit are in contact with each other. Embodiment 25. The apparatus of embodiment 24, further comprising a second seal between the second headunit and the second end of the tube. Embodiment 26. The apparatus of embodiment 25, wherein the second seal comprises (i) metal disposed between and in contact with the second headunit and the second end of the tube, (ii) a clamp and / or fastener that maintains contact between the second headunit and the second end of the tube, or (iii) a combination thereof. Embodiment 27. The device of any one of embodiments 24 to 26, wherein the second headunit includes a recess configured to receive the second end of the tube. Embodiment 28. The device of any of embodiments 15 to 23, wherein the second end of the tube is spring-mounted on the applicator, and the device further comprises (i) a second head unit defining the first opening, a first clamp having a first end and a second end, wherein the first clamp is slidably disposed in the first opening, and the second end of the first clamp is fixedly attached to the applicator, and a first elastically compressible device is positioned between the second head unit and the first end and / or the second end of the first clamp, wherein the second end of the tube and the second head unit are connected to each other, or (ii) a second head unit defining a first opening and a second opening, a first clamp having a first end and a second end, wherein the first clamp is slidably disposed in the first opening and the second end of the first clamp is fixedly mounted on the applicator, a second clamp having a first end and a second end, wherein the second clamp is slidably disposed in the first opening The second opening is arranged, and the second end of the first fastener is fixedly mounted to the applicator, the first elastic compressible device is positioned between the second head unit and the first end and / orThe second end of the first clamp is located, and a second elastically compressible device is located between the second headunit and the first end and / or the second end of the second clamp, wherein the second end of the tube and the second headunit are connected to each other. Embodiment 29. The device of embodiment 28, further comprising a third opening defined by the second head unit; a third fastener having a first end and a second end, wherein the third fastener is slidably disposed in the third opening, and the second end of the third fastener is fixedly mounted to the applicator; and a third elastically compressible device disposed between the second head unit and the first end and / or the second end of the third fastener. Embodiment 30. The device of embodiment 29, further comprising a fourth opening defined by the second head unit; a fourth fastener having a first end and a second end, wherein the fourth fastener is slidably disposed in the fourth opening, and the second end of the fourth fastener is fixedly mounted to the applicator; and a fourth elastically compressible device disposed between the second head unit and the first end and / or the second end of the fourth fastener. Embodiment 31. The device of any one of embodiments 28 to 30, wherein the first elastic compressible device, the second elastic compressible device, the third elastic compressible device, the fourth elastic compressible device, or a combination thereof comprises one or more disc springs mounted on the first, second, third, or fourth clamps, respectively. Embodiment 32. The device of any one of embodiments 28 to 30, wherein the first elastically compressible device, the second elastically compressible device, the third elastically compressible device, the fourth elastically compressible device, or a combination thereof comprises 1 to 24 disc springs mounted on the first, second, third, or fourth bracket, respectively. Embodiment 33. The apparatus of any one of embodiments 28 to 32, further comprising a second seal between the second headunit and the second end of the tube. Embodiment 34. The apparatus of embodiment 33, wherein the second seal comprises (i) metal disposed between and in contact with the second headunit and the second end of the tube, (ii) a clamp and / or fastener that maintains contact between the second headunit and the second end of the tube, or (iii) a combination thereof. Embodiment 35. The apparatus of any one of embodiments 15 to 34, wherein (i) the first headunit is fixedly mounted to the first end of the tube, (ii) the second headunit is fixedly mounted to the second end of the tube, or (iii) the first headunit is fixedly mounted to the first end of the tube and the second headunit is fixedly mounted to the second end of the tube. Embodiment 36. The apparatus of embodiment 35, wherein (i) the first headunit is welded or soldered to the first end of the tube, (ii) the second headunit is welded or soldered to the second end of the tube, or (iii) the first headunit is welded or soldered to the first end of the tube and the second headunit is welded to the second end of the tube. Embodiment 37. The device of any preceding embodiment, wherein the applicator comprises a reservoir (i) having a first end and a second end, and (ii) comprising 1 to 30 chambers defined by (a) one or more outer walls of the reservoir, (b) one or more walls within the reservoir, or (c) a combination thereof, wherein the first end of the reservoir, the second end of the reservoir, one or more inner walls of the reservoir, or a combination thereof define an opening, and the tube is positioned in the openings defined by (a) the first end of the reservoir, (b) the second end of the reservoir, (c) one or more inner walls of the reservoir, or (d) a combination thereof. Embodiment 38. The apparatus of embodiment 37, wherein the reservoir further comprises at least one waveguide comprising a passage through which a plurality of microwaves pass before entering one of chambers 1 to 30. Embodiment 39. The device of embodiment 37 or 38, wherein the reservoir comprises four to six chambers. Embodiment 40. The device of embodiment 37 or 38, wherein the device comprises three to six microwave generators, and the applicator comprises four to six chambers. Embodiment 41. The apparatus of any one of embodiments 37 to 40, wherein at least one of the one or more microwave generators (i) is positioned to introduce a plurality of microwaves into at least one of one to thirty compartments through an opening defined by one or more outer walls of the container, (ii) is positioned within at least one of one to thirty compartments, or (iii) is a combination thereof. Embodiment 42. The apparatus of embodiment 41, wherein one or more microwave generators are positioned to introduce a plurality of microwaves into at least one of one to thirty chambers through an opening defined by one or more outer walls, and the one or more microwave generators are located in at least one waveguide. Embodiment 43. The apparatus of any one of embodiments 1 to 36, wherein the applicator comprises one to thirty modular applicator units, wherein each modular applicator unit comprises (i) a housing having a first side and a second side, (ii) a first opening defined by the first side, (iii) a second opening defined by the second side, and (iv) a waveguide extending from a third opening of the housing, wherein one to thirty modular applicator units are positioned adjacent to each other and the tube is positioned in the first and second openings of each modular applicator unit. Embodiment 44. The device of embodiment 43, wherein the applicator comprises four to six modular applicator units. Embodiment 45. The apparatus of embodiment 43 or 44, wherein at least one of the one or more microwave generators is positioned to input a plurality of microwaves to at least one of one to thirty modular applicator units. Embodiment 46. The device of any one of embodiments 43 to 45, wherein the device comprises three to six microwave generators, and the applicator comprises four to six modular applicator units. Embodiment 47. The apparatus according to any one of embodiments 1 to 46, wherein the portion of the tube formed of the electromagnetically transparent material is substantially cylindrical. Embodiment 48. The device of embodiment 47, wherein the tube has an outer diameter of about 45 mm to about 60 mm, and an inner diameter of about 30 mm to about 44 mm. Embodiment 49. The apparatus of embodiment 47, wherein the tube has an outer diameter of about 50 mm to about 54 mm, and an inner diameter of about 40 mm to about 44 mm. Embodiment 50. The apparatus of any one of embodiments 1 to 49, wherein the tube has a length of about 0.1 m to about 5 m, about 0.1 m to about 4 m, about 0.1 m to about 3 m, about 0.5 m to about 3 m, about 0.5 m to about 2 m, about 0.5 m to about 1.5 m, or about 1 m to about 1.5 m. Embodiment 51. The apparatus of any one of embodiments 1 to 50, wherein the tube further comprises a microwave disruptor. Embodiment 52. The apparatus of embodiment 51, wherein the microwave disruptor is fixedly mounted at the second end of the tube. Embodiment 53. The device of embodiment 51 or 52, wherein the microwave disruptor comprises a wire or a rod and optionally, (i) one or more protruding structures and / or (ii) a flange arranged on the wire or rod. Embodiment 54. The apparatus of any of embodiments 1 to 53, wherein the absorbent material is disposed in an internal reservoir of the tube, and the apparatus further comprises one or more retaining means positioned to (i) prevent the absorbent material from escaping from the internal reservoir of the tube, (ii) control the location of the absorbent material in the internal reservoir of the tube, (iii) prevent an absorbent material from contacting the liquid, or (iv) a combination thereof. Embodiment 55. The device of embodiment 54, wherein the one or more holding devices comprise a plate, a housing, or a combination thereof. Embodiment 56. The device of any one of embodiments 1 to 55, wherein the absorbent materials are in the form of a monolith, particulate, or a combination thereof. Embodiment 57. The device of any one of embodiments 1 to 56, wherein a longitudinal axis of the tube is parallel (0 degrees) or perpendicular (90 degrees) to a surface (e.g., ground, floor, ceiling, wall, etc.) that supports the device. Embodiment 58. The device of any one of embodiments 1 to 56, wherein the angle between a longitudinal axis of the tube and a surface (e.g., ground, floor, ceiling, wall, etc.) that supports the device is 0 to 90 degrees, 10 degrees to 90 degrees, 20 degrees to 90 degrees, 30 degrees to 90 degrees, 40 degrees to 90 degrees, 50 degrees to 90 degrees, 60 degrees to 90 degrees, 70 degrees to 90 degrees, or 80 degrees to 90 degrees. Embodiment 59. The device of any one of embodiments 1 to 58, wherein the electromagnetic wave propagation structure comprises an electromagnetic wave transparent portion of the enclosure through which electromagnetic waves can pass from the exterior of the enclosure to the interior volume. Embodiment 60. The apparatus of any one of embodiments 1 to 59, wherein the enclosure includes a tubular section formed of an electromagnetically transparent material that forms the electromagnetically transparent portion of the enclosure. Embodiment 61. The device of any one of embodiments 1 to 60, further comprising an applicator for directing electromagnetic waves through the electromagnetic wave transparent portion and into the internal volume. Embodiment 62. The device of embodiment 60 or 61, wherein (A) the housing includes two metal end caps, one attached to each end of the tubular section, or (B) the tubular section is monolithic. Embodiment 63. The device of any one of embodiments 1 to 62, wherein the electromagnetic wave emitting structure is at least partially contained within the housing. Embodiment 64. The device of any one of embodiments 1 to 63, wherein the holding device has a plurality of pores through which fluid can pass but adsorbent particles cannot pass. Embodiment 65. The device of embodiment 64, wherein the average open area of ​​the openings in the retaining mechanism is less than 20 square millimeters, 15 square millimeters, 10 square millimeters, 5 square millimeters, or 2 square millimeters. Embodiment 66. The device of any one of embodiments 1 to 65, wherein the retaining device comprises a plate attached to the housing, a perforated plate attached to the housing, or a perforated wall of the housing. Embodiment 67. The device of any one of embodiments 1 to 66, wherein the housing further comprises a fluid inlet for receiving fluid into the internal volume and a fluid outlet for discharging fluid from the internal volume. Embodiment 68. The apparatus of embodiment 67, wherein at least one retaining device includes a first retaining structure positioned proximate the fluid inlet and a second retaining structure positioned proximate the fluid outlet. Embodiment 69. The device of any one of embodiments 1 to 68, wherein the chamber is a pressurized chamber. Embodiment 70. The device of embodiment 69, wherein the pressurized chamber is configured to withstand a pressure of at least 1 bar, at least 5 bar, at least 10 bar, at least 15 bar, at least 20 bar, or at least 25 bar. Embodiment 71. The apparatus of any one of embodiments 1 to 70, further comprising a fluid source for supplying fluid to the internal volume and an electromagnetic wave generator for providing electromagnetic waves to the internal volume. Embodiment 72. The apparatus of embodiment 71, wherein the electromagnetic wave generator is a microwave wave generator. Embodiment 73. The apparatus of any one of embodiments 1 to 72, wherein the applicator comprises (i) a reservoir or a modular unit, and (ii) a separate mounting device, wherein the separate mounting device allows the first end of the tube to be fixedly or spring-loadedly mounted on the applicator. Embodiment 74. A system comprising the apparatus of any one of embodiments 1 to 73. A fluid source into which fluid is disposed, wherein the fluid source is in fluid communication with the tube, and a pump configured to provide (i) fluid from the fluid source to the tube, (ii) pressure in the tube, wherein the pump is in fluid communication with the apparatus and the fluid source, or (iii) a combination thereof. Embodiment 75. The system of embodiment 74, further comprising a heat exchanger in fluid communication with the second end of the pipe and the pump. Visualization 76. A method - (A) For heating a material, a method comprising providing (i) the apparatus of any one of embodiments 1 to 73, or (ii) the system of embodiment 74 or 75; placing fluid at the inlet of a tube with a flow rate; introducing a plurality of electromagnetic waves into an applicator to irradiate at least a portion of the absorbent material with the plurality of electromagnetic waves to generate heat while the fluid is in the tube to produce a heated fluid; and collecting the heated fluid at the outlet of the tube; or (B) Providing an apparatus comprising a chamber having an inlet and an outlet, an absorbent material in the chamber, and an applicator having at least a portion of the chamber and at least a portion of the applicator disposed therein; placing fluid at the inlet of the tube with a flow rate; introducing a plurality of electromagnetic waves into the applicator to irradiate at least a portion of the absorbent material with the plurality of electromagnetic waves to generate heat while the fluid is in the tube to produce a heated fluid; and collecting the heated fluid at the outlet of the tube; or (C) Heating fluids using electromagnetic energy, a process comprising (ii) irradiating a plurality of absorbent particles with electromagnetic energy to provide heated absorbent particles; and (ii) contacting the fluid with the heated absorbent particles to heat the fluid at a rate of at least 100°C per minute, at least 200°C per minute, at least 300°C per minute, at least 400°C per minute, or at least 500°C per minute. Embodiment 77. The method of embodiment 76, wherein step (b) comprises flowing fluid through the volume of heated adsorbent particles. Embodiment 78. The method of embodiment 76 or 77, wherein the flow rate of fluid through the volume of heated adsorbent particles is at least 5 liters per minute, at least 10 liters per minute, at least 15 liters per minute, or at least 20 liters per minute. Embodiment 79. The method of any one of embodiments 76 to 78, wherein the liquid maintains contact with the heated adsorbent particles for a maximum of 10 minutes, 8 minutes, 5 minutes, 3 minutes, or 1 minute. Embodiment 80. The method of any one of embodiments 76 to 79, wherein step (b) heats the fluid to at least 200°C, at least 250°C, at least 300°C, at least 400°C, or at least 500°C. is too long to be saved Embodiment 81. The method of any one of embodiments 76 to 80, wherein the fluid is a liquid and step (b) is performed at elevated pressure to prevent evaporation of the liquid. Embodiment 82. The method of any one of embodiments 76 to 81, wherein the adsorbent particles are not physically connected to each other. Embodiment 83. The method of any one of embodiments 76 to 82, wherein the average size of the adsorbent particles is in the range of 0.1 to 5 mm. Embodiment 84. The method of any one of embodiments 76 to 83, wherein steps (a) and (b) are performed in a common chamber (e.g., tube) that receives the adsorbent particles and the liquid. Embodiment 85. The method of any one of embodiments 76 to 84, wherein the chamber includes an electromagnetic wave transparent portion through which electromagnetic energy is passed to heat the recipient particles. Embodiment 86. The method of any one of embodiments 76 to 85, wherein the electromagnetic wave transparent portion is a tubular member made of an electromagnetic wave transparent material. Embodiment 87. The method of any one of embodiments 76 to 86, wherein during steps (a) and (b), the adsorbent particles are maintained in the chamber while fluid flows through the chamber. Embodiment 88. The method of any one of embodiments 76 to 87, wherein the fluid flow rate through the chamber is at least 10 liters per minute, wherein the fluid residence time in the chamber is in the range of 0.1 to 5 minutes, and wherein the fluid temperature is increased by at least 250 degrees Celsius in the chamber. Embodiment 89. The method of any one of embodiments 76 to 88, wherein steps (a) and (b) are performed simultaneously. Embodiment 90. The method of any one of embodiments 76 to 89, wherein steps (a) and (b) are performed substantially continuously. Embodiment 91. The method of any one of embodiments 76 to 90, wherein the fluid is heated primarily by direct heat exchange with heated adsorbent particles. Embodiment 92. The method of any one of embodiments 76 to 91, wherein less than 25%, less than 20%, less than 15%, less than 10%, or less than 5% of the fluid heating is generated by direct absorption of electromagnetic energy. Embodiment 93. The method of any one of embodiments 76 to 92, wherein the electromagnetic energy comprises microwave energy. Embodiment 94. The method of any one of embodiments 76 to 93, further comprising (i) placing at least a portion of the heated fluid at the inlet of the tube; (ii) introducing a plurality of electromagnetic waves into the applicator to irradiate at least a portion of the receiving material with the plurality of electromagnetic waves to generate heat while the heated fluid is in the tube to produce more heated fluid, and (iii) collecting more heated fluid at the outlet of the tube. Embodiment 95. The method of embodiment 94, further comprising repeating steps (i) through (iii) one or more times to produce a further heated fluid of increased temperature. Embodiment 96. A method for processing a fluid, the method comprising providing (i) the apparatus of any one of embodiments 1 to 73, (ii) the system of embodiment 74 or 75, or (iii) an apparatus comprising a chamber having an inlet and an outlet, an absorbent material in the chamber, and an applicator, wherein at least a portion of the absorbent material and at least a portion of the chamber are disposed in the applicator, wherein the absorbent material comprises magnetite and an iron oxide other than magnetite; placing the fluid at the inlet of a flow-through tube; wherein the fluid is water or an aqueous liquid and the fluid contacts the absorbent material; and introducing a plurality of electromagnetic waves into the applicator to irradiate at least a portion of the absorbent material with a plurality of electromagnetic waves to generate heat while the fluid is in the tube. Embodiment 98. The method of embodiment 96, further comprising collecting a heated fluid at the outlet of the tube, wherein the heated fluid is a gas. Embodiment 99. The method of any one of embodiments 75 to 98, wherein the fluid has a temperature of about 15°C to about 35°C or about 20°C to about 30°C. Embodiment 100. The method of any one of embodiments 75 to 99, wherein the heated fluid or further heated fluid has a temperature of about 400 degrees Celsius to about 600 degrees Celsius. Embodiment 101. The method of any one of embodiments 75 to 100, wherein the heated fluid or further heated fluid has a temperature of about 50°C to about 1500°C, about 100°C to about 1250°C, about 100°C to about 1000°C, about 100°C to about 900°C, about 100°C to about 800°C, about 100°C to about 700°C, about 100°C to about 600°C, about 100°C to about 500°C, about 200°C to about 500°C, about 300°C to about 500°C, or about 400°C to about 500°C. Embodiment 102. The method of any one of embodiments 75 to 101, wherein a heated absorbent material, or an absorbent material irradiated with electromagnetic radiation at a temperature of about 50°C to about 1500°C, about 100°C to about 1250°C, about 100°C to about 1000°C, about 100°C to about 900°C, about 100°C to about 800°C, about 100°C to about 700°C, about 100°C to about 600°C, about 100°C to about 500°C, about 200°C to about 500°C, about 300°C to about 500°C, about 400°C to about 500°C, about 250°C to about 1500°C, about 350°C to about 1500°C, about 450°C to about 1500°C, about 300°C to about 1000°C, about 300°C to about 800°C, or aboutIt has a temperature range of 300°C to about 700°C. Embodiment 103. The method of any one of embodiments 75 to 102, wherein (A) the fluid has a critical pressure and the pressure within the tube is greater than the critical pressure of the fluid, (B) the pressure within the chamber (e.g., tube) during all or part of the methods provided herein is about 1 bar to about 250 bar, about 1.1 bar to about 250 bar, about 5 bar to about 250 bar, about 5 bar to about 225 bar, about 5 bar to about 200 bar, about 5 bar to about 150 bar, about 5 bar to about 100 bar, or about 10 bar to about 100 bar, or (C) the pressure within the chamber (e.g., tube) during all or part of the methods provided herein is at least 2 bar, at least 5 bar, at least 10 bar, at least 25 bar, at least 50 bar, at least 100 bar, at least 150 bar, or at least 200 It is a bar. Embodiment 104. The method of any one of embodiments 75 to 103, wherein the flow rate is about 0.1 L / min to about 1000 L / min, about 0.1 L / min to about 750 L / min, about 0.1 L / min to about 500 L / min, about 0.1 L / min to about 250 L / min, about 0.1 L / min to about 100 L / min, about 0.1 L / min to about 50 L / min, about 0.1 L / min to about 25 L / min, about 0.1 L / min to about 10 L / min, about 0.1 L / min to about 50 L / min, about 0.1 L / min to about 25 L / min, about 0.1 L / min to about 10 L / min, about 0.1 L / min to about 5 L / min, about 0.2 L / min to about 3 L / min, about 0.2 L / min to about 1.2 liters per minute, about 900 liters per minute to about 1000 liters per minute, about 800 liters per minute to about 1000 liters per minute, about 700 liters per minute to about 1000 liters per minute, about 600 liters per minute to about 1000 liters per minute, about 500 liters per minute to about 1000 liters per minute, about 400 liters per minute to about 1000 liters per minute, about 300 liters per minute to about 1000 liters per minute, about 250 liters per minute to about 1000 liters per minute, about 200 liters per minute to about 1000 liters per minute, about 100 liters per minute to about 1000 liters per minute, about 75 liters per minute to about 1000 liters per minute, about 50 liters per minute to about 1000 liters per minute, about 10 liters per minute to about 1000 liters per minute, at least 5 liters per minute, at least 10 liters per minute, at least 15 liters per minute, or at least 20 liters per minute. Embodiment 105. The method of any one of embodiments 75 to 103, wherein the flow rate is about 0.2 liters per minute to about 3 liters per minute. Embodiment 106. The method of any one of embodiments 75 to 103, wherein the flow rate is about 0.2 liters per minute to about 1.2 liters per minute. Embodiment 107. The method of any one of embodiments 75 to 106, wherein the fluid comprises an organic fluid, aqueous liquid, ionic liquid, or a combination thereof. Embodiment 108. The method of embodiment 107, wherein the organic fluid is a C1-C40 hydrocarbon, a C1-C30 hydrocarbon, or a C1-C20 hydrocarbon. Embodiment 109. The method of embodiment 107 or 108, wherein the organic fluid is a halo-replacement organic fluid. Embodiment 110. The method of embodiment 109, wherein the halo-substituted organic fluid is a perhalocarbon, such as a perfluorocarbon. Embodiment 111. A method for heating a material, the method comprising providing (i) the apparatus of any one of embodiments 1 to 73, (ii) the system of embodiment 74 or 75, or (iii) an apparatus comprising a chamber, an absorbent material disposed in the chamber, and an applicator, wherein at least a portion of the absorbent material and at least a portion of the chamber are disposed in the applicator; disposing the material adjacent the tube; Embodiment 110. The method of embodiment 109, wherein the halo-substituted organic fluid is a perhalocarbon, such as a perfluorocarbon. introducing a plurality of electromagnetic waves into the applicator to irradiate at least a portion of the absorbent material with a plurality of electromagnetic waves to generate heat while the material is in proximity to the tube to produce a heated material. Embodiment 112. The method of embodiment 111, wherein the material comprises a solid. Embodiment 113. The method of embodiment 111 or 112, wherein arranging the materials adjacent the tube comprises contacting the tube with the materials. Embodiment 114. The method of any one of embodiments 76 to 113, wherein the adsorbent material comprises magnetite and an iron oxide other than magnetite. The fluid is water or an aqueous liquid, the fluid contacts the adsorbent material, and the heated fluid is a gas. Embodiment 115. The method of any one of embodiments 76 to 114, wherein the plurality of electromagnetic waves comprises a plurality of microwave waves. Embodiment 116. The method of embodiment 115, wherein the one or more microwave generators comprise a magnetron generator, a solid-state generator, or a combination thereof. Embodiment 117. The method of embodiment 115 or 116, wherein the one or more microwave generators have a power of about 200 watts to about 100 kilowatts or about 200 watts to about 54 kilowatts. Embodiment 118. The method of one of embodiments 115 to 117, wherein one or more of the plurality of microwaves has a frequency of 915 MHz, 2.45 GHz, 14 GHz, 18 GHz, or 28 GHz. Embodiment 119. The method of any one of embodiments 76 to 118, wherein the plurality of electromagnetic waves comprises a plurality of radio waves, a plurality of infrared waves, gamma rays, or a combination thereof.

Claims

1. An apparatus comprising: a tube formed at least in part of an electromagnetic wave-transparent material; a susceptor material disposed in the tube; and an applicator, wherein (i) a first end of the tube is fixably mounted or spring mounted to the applicator, and (ii) at least a portion of the tube and at least a portion the susceptor material in the tube is arranged in the applicator; wherein the susceptor material is disposed in an internal reservoir of the tube, and the apparatus further comprises one or more retention devices arranged at a position to (a) prevent the susceptor material from escaping the internal reservoir of the tube, (b) control a location of the susceptor material in the internal reservoir of the tube, (c) prevent the susceptor material from contacting fluid in the internal reservoir, or (d) a combination thereof.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the susceptor material is in a particulate form.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein a second end of the tube is fixably mounted or spring mounted to the applicator.

4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the first end of the tube is spring mounted to the applicator, the second end of the tube is spring mounted to the applicator, or both the first end of the tube and the second end of the tube are spring mounted to the applicator.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the applicator comprises (i) a vessel or one or more modular units, and (ii) a separate mounting apparatus, wherein the separate mounting apparatus permits the first end of the tube to be fixably or spring mounted to the applicator.

6. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising one or more microwave generators, wherein the one or more microwave generators are positioned to introduce a plurality of microwaves into the applicator to irradiate the at least a portion of the susceptor material with the plurality of microwaves.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the electromagnetic wave-transparent material comprises a microwave-transparent material.

8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the microwave-transparent material comprises a ceramic, a polymer, a glass, or a combination thereof.

9. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the microwave-transparent material comprises (i) alumina, (ii) fused silica, (iii) silicon nitride, (iv) a ceramic including silicon, aluminum, nitrogen, oxygen, or a combination thereof, or (v) a combination thereof.

10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the tube has a monolithic structure.

11. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the tube comprises a first cap arranged at the first end of the tube, a second cap arranged at the second end of the tube, or a first cap and a second cap arranged at the first end and the second end of the tube, respectively.

12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the first cap, the second cap, or both the first cap and the second cap comprises a metal.

13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the metal comprises (i) KOVAR® alloy, or (ii) an alloy comprising iron, cobalt, and nickel.

14. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein a portion of the tube comprises a ceramic, and the first cap, the second cap, or both the first cap and the second cap are adjoined to the ceramic by a ceramic-to-metal braze, an adhesive, or a combination thereof.

15. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein (i) the first end of the tube is spring mounted to the applicator, (ii) the second end of the tube is fixably mounted to the applicator, (iii) the first end of the tube is spring mounted to the applicator and the second end of the tube is fixably mounted to the applicator, (iv) the first end of the tube is fixably mounted to the applicator, (v) the second end of the tube is spring mounted to the applicator, or (vi) the first end of the tube is spring mounted to the applicator and the second end of the tube is spring mounted to the applicator.

16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the first end of the tube is spring mounted to the applicator, and the apparatus further comprises: (i) a first head unit defining a first aperture, a first fastener having a first end and a second end, wherein the first fastener is slidably arranged in the first aperture, and the second end of the first fastener is fixably mounted to the applicator, and a first elastically compressible apparatus arranged between the first head unit and the first end and / or the second end of the first fastener, wherein the first end of the tube and first head unit contact each other; or (ii) a first head unit defining a first aperture and a second aperture, a first fastener having a first end and a second end, wherein the first fastener is slidably arranged in the first aperture, and the second end of the first fastener is fixably mounted to the applicator, a second fastener having a first end and a second end, wherein the second fastener is slidably arranged in the second aperture, and the second end of the first fastener is fixably mounted to the applicator, a first elastically compressible apparatus arranged between the first head unit and the first end and / or the second end of the first fastener, and a second elastically compressible apparatus arranged between the first head unit and the first end and / or the second end of the second fastener; wherein the first end of the tube and first head unit contact each other.

17. The apparatus of claim 16, further comprising: a third aperture defined by the first head unit; a third fastener having a first end and a second end, wherein the third fastener is slidably arranged in the third aperture, and the second end of the third fastener is fixably mounted to the applicator; and a third elastically compressible apparatus arranged between the first head unit and the first end and / or the second end of the third fastener.

18. The apparatus of claim 17, further comprising: a fourth aperture defined by the first head unit; a fourth fastener having a first end and a second end, wherein the fourth fastener is slidably arranged in the fourth aperture, and the second end of the fourth fastener is fixably mounted to the applicator; and a fourth elastically compressible apparatus arranged between the first head unit and the first end and / or the second end of the fourth fastener.

19. The apparatus of any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein the first elastically compressible apparatus, the second elastically compressible apparatus, the third elastically compressive apparatus, the fourth elastically compressible apparatus, or a combination thereof comprises one or more disc springs slidably mounted on the first fastener, the second fastener, the third fastener, or the fourth fastener, respectively.

20. The apparatus of any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein the first elastically compressible apparatus, the second elastically compressible apparatus, the third elastically compressive apparatus, the fourth elastically compressible apparatus, or a combination thereof comprises 1 to 24 disc springs slidably mounted on the first fastener, the second fastener, the third fastener, or the fourth fastener, respectively.

21. The apparatus of any one of claims 16 to 18, further comprising a first seal that provides closure between the first head unit and the first end of the tube.

22. The apparatus of claim 21, wherein the first seal comprises (i) rubber arranged between and in contact with the first head unit and the first end of the tube, (ii) a clamp and / or fastener that maintains contact between the first head unit and the first end of the tube, or (iii) a combination thereof.

23. The apparatus of any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein the first head unit comprises a depression configured to receive the first end of the tube.

24. The apparatus of any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein the apparatus further comprises: a second head unit fixably mounted to the applicator; wherein the second end of the tube and second head unit contact each other.

25. The apparatus of claim 24, further comprising a second seal between the second head unit and the second end of the tube.

26. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein the second seal comprises (i) metal arranged between and in contact with the second head unit and the second end of the tube, (ii) a clamp and / or fastener that maintains contact between the second head unit and the second end of the tube, or (iii) a combination thereof.

27. The apparatus of claim 24, wherein the second head unit comprises a depression configured to receive the second end of the tube.

28. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the second end of the tube is spring mounted to the applicator, and the apparatus further comprises: (i) a second head unit defining a first aperture, a first fastener having a first end and a second end, wherein the first fastener is slidably arranged in the first aperture, and the second end of the first fastener is fixably mounted to the applicator, and a first elastically compressible apparatus arranged between the second head unit and the first end and / or the second end of the first fastener, wherein the second end of the tube and second head unit contact each other; or (ii) a second head unit defining a first aperture and a second aperture, a first fastener having a first end and a second end, wherein the first fastener is slidably arranged in the first aperture, and the second end of the first fastener is fixably mounted to the applicator, a second fastener having a first end and a second end, wherein the second fastener is slidably arranged in the second aperture, and the second end of the first fastener is fixably mounted to the applicator, a first elastically compressible apparatus arranged between the second head unit and the first end and / or the second end of the first fastener, and a second elastically compressible apparatus arranged between the second head unit and the first end and / or the second end of the second fastener, wherein the second end of the tube and second head unit contact each other.

29. The apparatus of claim 28, further comprising: a third aperture defined by the second head unit; a third fastener having a first end and a second end, wherein the third fastener is slidably arranged in the third aperture, and the second end of the third fastener is fixably mounted to the applicator; and a third elastically compressible apparatus arranged between the second head unit and the first end and / or the second end of the third fastener.

30. The apparatus of claim 29, further comprising: a fourth aperture defined by the second head unit; a fourth fastener having a first end and a second end, wherein the fourth fastener is slidably arranged in the fourth aperture, and the second end of the fourth fastener is fixably mounted to the applicator; and a fourth elastically compressible apparatus arranged between the second head unit and the first end and / or the second end of the fourth fastener.

31. The apparatus of any one of claims 28 to 30, wherein the first elastically compressible apparatus, the second elastically compressible apparatus, the third elastically compressive apparatus, the fourth elastically compressible apparatus, or a combination thereof comprises one or more disc springs slidably mounted on the first fastener, the second fastener, the third fastener, or the fourth fastener, respectively.

32. The apparatus of any one of claims 28 to 30, wherein the first elastically compressible apparatus, the second elastically compressible apparatus, the third elastically compressive apparatus, the fourth elastically compressible apparatus, or a combination thereof comprises 1 to 24 disc springs slidably mounted on the first fastener, the second fastener, the third fastener, or the fourth fastener, respectively.

33. The apparatus of any one of claims 28 to 30, further comprising a second seal between the second head unit and the second end of the tube.

34. The apparatus of claim 33, wherein the second seal comprises (i) metal arranged between and in contact with the second head unit and the second end of the tube, (ii) a clamp and / or fastener that maintains contact between the second head unit and the second end of the tube, or (iii) a combination thereof.

35. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein (i) the first head unit is fixably mounted to the first end of the tube, (ii) the second head unit is fixably mounted to the second end of the tube, or (iii) the first head unit is fixably mounted to first end of the tube and the second head unit is fixably mounted to the second end of the tube.

36. The apparatus of claim 35, wherein (i) the first head unit is welded or brazed to the first end of the tube, (ii) the second head unit is welded or brazed to the second end of the tube, or (iii) the first head unit is welded or brazed to the first end of the tube and the second head unit is welded to the second end of the tube.

37. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the applicator comprises: a vessel (i) having a first end and a second end, and (ii) comprising one to thirty chambers defined by (a) one or more outer walls of the vessel, (b) one or more walls inside the vessel, or (c) a combination thereof, wherein the first end of the vessel, the second end of the vessel, the one or more walls inside the vessel, or a combination thereof define an aperture, and the tube is arranged in the apertures defined by (a) the first end of the vessel, (b) the second end of the vessel, (c) the one or more walls inside the vessel, or (d) a combination thereof.

38. The apparatus of claim 37, wherein the vessel further comprises at least one waveguide comprising a passageway through which the plurality of microwaves pass prior to entering one of the one to thirty chambers.

39. The apparatus of claim 38, further comprising one or more microwave generators, wherein the one or more microwave generators are positioned to introduce the plurality of microwaves into at least one of the one to thirty chambers via the aperture defined by the one or more outer walls, and the one or more microwave generators is positioned in the at least one waveguide.

40. The apparatus of claim 37, wherein the vessel comprises four to six chambers.

41. The apparatus of claim 37, wherein the apparatus comprises three to six microwave generators, and the applicator comprises four to six chambers.

42. The apparatus of claim 37, further comprising one or more microwave generators, wherein at least one of the one or more microwave generators (i) is positioned to introduce the plurality of microwaves into at least one of the one to thirty chambers via an aperture defined by the one or more outer walls of the vessel, (ii) is positioned in at least one of the one to thirty chambers, or (iii) a combination thereof.

43. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the applicator comprises: one to thirty modular applicator units, wherein each modular applicator unit comprises (i) a chamber having a first side and a second side, (ii) a first aperture defined by the first side, (iii) a second aperture defined by the second side, and (iv) a waveguide extending from a third aperture of the chamber; wherein the one to thirty modular applicator units are arranged adjacent to each other, and the tube is arranged in the first aperture and the second aperture of each modular applicator unit.

44. The apparatus of claim 43, wherein the applicator comprises four to six of the modular applicator units.

45. The apparatus of claim 43, further comprising one or more microwave generators, wherein at least one of the one or more microwave generators is positioned to introduce a plurality of microwaves into at least one of the one to thirty modular applicator units.

46. The apparatus of claim 45, wherein the apparatus comprises three to six microwave generators, and the applicator comprises four to six of the modular applicator units.

47. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein a portion of the tube formed of the electromagnetic wave-transparent material is substantially cylindrical.

48. The apparatus of claim 47, wherein the tube has an outer diameter of about 45 mm to about 60 mm, and an inner diameter of about 30 mm to about 44 mm.

49. The apparatus of claim 47, wherein the tube has an outer diameter of about 50 mm to about 54 mm, and an inner diameter of about 40 mm to about 44 mm.

50. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the tube has a length of about 0.1 m to about 5 m.

51. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the tube further comprises a microwave disruptor.

52. The apparatus of claim 51, wherein the microwave disruptor is fixably mounted at the second end of the tube.

53. The apparatus of claim 51, wherein the microwave disruptor comprises a wire or a rod, and, optionally, (i) one or more protruding structures and / or (ii) a flange arranged on the wire or the rod.

54. The apparatus of claim 1, whether the one or more retention devices comprise a membrane, a screen, a housing, or a combination thereof.

55. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the susceptor material is in a monolithic form.

56. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the susceptor material comprises silicon carbide, magnetite, zeolite, quartz, ferrite, carbon black, graphite, granite, or a combination thereof.

57. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 18, 28 to 30, 35 to 53, or 54 to 56, wherein the tube comprises an inlet and an outlet.

58. An apparatus for heating fluids with a plurality of susceptor particles irradiated by electromagnetic energy, the apparatus comprising: a container defining an internal volume configured to receive the susceptor particles, wherein the container is a pressure container configured to withstand a pressure of at least 5 bar ; at least one retention device disposed in or adjacent to the internal volume and configured to retain the susceptor particles in the internal volume while allowing a fluid to flow out of the internal volume; and an electromagnetic wave emission structure configured to introduce electromagnetic waves into the internal volume for irradiation of the susceptor particles contained in the internal volume.

59. The apparatus of claim 58, wherein the electromagnetic wave emission structure comprises an electromagnetic wave-transparent section of the container through which electromagnetic waves can pass from outside the container into the internal volume.

60. The apparatus of claim 59, further comprising an applicator for directing electromagnetic waves through the electromagnetic wave-transparent section and into the internal volume.

61. The apparatus of claim 59, wherein the container comprises a tubular section formed of an electromagnetic wave-transparent material that makes up the electromagnetic wave-transparent section of the container.

62. The apparatus of claim 61, wherein the container further comprises two metallic end caps, one coupled to each end of the tubular section.

63. The apparatus of claim 58, wherein the electromagnetic wave emission structure is at least partially disposed in the container.

64. The apparatus of claim 58, wherein the retention device has a plurality of openings through which the fluid can pass but the susceptor particles cannot pass.

65. The apparatus of claim 64, wherein the average open area of the openings in the retention mechanism is less than 5 square millimeters.

66. The apparatus of claim 58, wherein the retention device comprises a screen coupled to the container, a perforated plate coupled to the container, or a perforated wall of the container.

67. The apparatus of claim 58, wherein the container further comprises a fluid inlet for receiving the fluid in the internal volume and a fluid outlet for discharging the fluid from the internal volume.

68. The apparatus of claim 58, wherein the at least one retention device comprises a first retention structure position proximate to the fluid inlet and a second retention structure position proximate to the fluid outlet.

69. The apparatus of claim 58, further comprising a fluid source for providing the fluid to the internal volume and an electromagnetic wave generator for providing the electromagnetic waves to the internal volume.

70. The apparatus of claim 69, wherein the electromagnetic wave generator is a microwave generator.

71. A system comprising: the apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 18, 28 to 30, 35 to 53, or 55 to 57; a fluid source in which a fluid is disposed, wherein the fluid source is in fluid communication with the tube; and a pump configured to provide (i) the fluid from the fluid source to the tube, and (ii) a pressure in the tube, wherein the pump is in fluid communication with the apparatus and the fluid source.

72. The system of claim 71, further comprising a heat exchanger in fluid communication with the tube and the pump.

73. A method for heating fluids using electromagnetic energy, the process comprising: (a) irradiating a plurality of susceptor particles with electromagnetic energy to thereby provide heated susceptor particles; and (b) contacting a fluid with the heated susceptor particles to thereby heat the fluid at a rate of at least 100 °C / min, wherein the fluid maintains contact with the heated susceptor particles for not more than 5 minutes.

74. The method of claim 73, wherein step (b) comprises flowing the fluid through a volume the heated susceptor particles.

75. The method of claim 73, wherein the flow rate of the fluid through the volume of heated susceptor particles is least 10 liters / minute.

76. The method of claim 73, wherein step (b) heats the fluid by at least 250 °C.

77. The method of claim 73, wherein the fluid is a liquid and step (b) is carried out at an elevated pressure to prevent vaporization of the liquid.78 The method of claim 73, wherein the susceptor particles are not physically bound to one another.

79. The method of claim 73, wherein the average particle size of the susceptor particles is in the range of 0.1 to 5 millimeters.

80. The method of claim 73, wherein steps (a) and (b) are carried out in a common container that receives the susceptor particles and the fluid.

81. The method of claim 73, wherein the container comprises an electromagnetic wave-transparent section through which the electromagnetic energy passes to heat the susceptor particles.

82. The method of claim 81, wherein the electromagnetic wave-transparent section is a tubular member made of an electromagnetic wave-transparent material.

83. The method of claim 82, wherein during steps (a) and (b), the susceptor particles are retained in the container while the fluid flows through the container.

84. The method of claim 73, wherein a flow rate of the fluid through the container is at least 10 liters / minute, wherein a residence time of the fluid in the container is in the range of 0.1 to 5 minutes, and wherein a temperature of the fluid is increased by at least 250°C in the container.

85. The method of claim 73, wherein steps (a) and (b) are carried out simultaneously.

86. The method of claim 73, wherein steps (a) and (b) are carried out in a substantially continuous fashion.

87. The method of claim 73, wherein the fluid is heated predominately by direct heat exchange with the heated susceptor particles.

88. The method of claim 73, wherein less than 25 percent of the heating of the fluid is caused by direct absorption of the electromagnetic energy.

89. The method of claim 73, wherein the electromagnetic energy comprises microwave energy.

90. A method for heating a material, the method comprising: providing (i) the apparatus of claim 58, or (ii) an apparatus comprising (a) a container having an inlet and an outlet, (b) a susceptor material disposed in the container, and (c) an applicator in which at least a portion of the container and at least a portion of the susceptor material are arranged; disposing a fluid in the inlet of the tube or container at a flow rate; introducing a plurality of electromagnetic waves into the applicator to irradiate at least a portion of the susceptor material with the plurality of electromagnetic waves to generate heat while the fluid is in the tube or container to produce a heated fluid; and collecting the heated fluid at the outlet of the tube or container.

91. The method of claim 90, wherein the fluid has a temperature of about 15 °C to about 35 °C.

92. The method of claim 90, wherein the heated fluid has a temperature of about 100 °C to about 1,000 °C.

93. The method of claim 90, wherein the heated fluid has a temperature of about 400 °C to about 600 °C.

94. The method of claim 90, wherein the fluid has a critical pressure, and a pressure inside the tube or container is greater than the critical pressure of the fluid.

95. The method of claim 90, wherein the flow rate is about 0.1 liters / minute to about 1,000 liters / minute.

96. The method of claim 90, wherein the fluid comprises an organic fluid, an aqueous fluid, an ionic liquid, or a combination thereof.

97. The method of claim 96, wherein the organic fluid is a C1 -C40 hydrocarbon.

98. The method of claim 96, wherein the organic fluid is a C1 -C30 hydrocarbon.

99. The method of claim 96, wherein the organic fluid is a C1 -C20 hydrocarbon.

100. The method of claim 90, wherein the plurality of electromagnetic waves comprises a plurality of microwaves, and the apparatus further comprises one or more microwave generators.

101. The method of claim 100, wherein the one or more microwave generators comprise a magnetron generator, a solid state generator, or a combination thereof.

102. The method of claim 100, wherein the one or more microwave generators has a power of about 200 W to about 100 kW.

103. The method of claim 100, wherein the one or more microwave generators has a power of about 200 W to about 54 kW.

104. The method of claim 100, wherein one or more microwaves of the plurality of microwaves has a frequency of 915 MHz, 2.45 GHz, 14 GHz, 18 GHz, or 28 GHz.

105. The method of claim 90, wherein the plurality of electromagnetic waves comprises a plurality of radio waves, a plurality of infrared waves, a plurality of gamma rays, or a combination thereof.

106. The method of claim 90, further comprising: (i) disposing at least a portion of the heated fluid in the inlet of the tube or container; (ii) introducing the plurality of electromagnetic waves into the applicator to irradiate at least a portion of the susceptor material with the plurality of electromagnetic waves to generate heat while the heated fluid is in the tube or container to produce a further heated fluid; and (iii) collecting the further heated fluid at the outlet of the tube or container.

107. The method of claim 106, further comprising repeating steps (i) to (iii) one or more times to produce a further heated fluid having an increased temperature.

108. A method for heating a material, the method comprising: providing the apparatus of claim 58, wherein the susceptor material comprises magnetite and an iron oxide other than magnetite; disposing a fluid in the inlet of the tube at a flow rate, wherein the fluid is water or an aqueous fluid, and the fluid contacts the susceptor material; introducing a plurality of electromagnetic waves into the applicator to irradiate at least a portion of the susceptor material with the plurality of electromagnetic waves to generate heat while the fluid is in the tube to produce a heated fluid; and collecting the heated fluid at the outlet of the tube, wherein the heated fluid is a gas.

109. The method of claim 108, wherein a temperature of the fluid is about 100 °C to about 500 °C after the introducing of the plurality of electromagnetic waves.

110. A method for heating a material, the method comprising: providing (i) the apparatus of claim 58, or (ii) an apparatus comprising (a) a container, (b) a susceptor material disposed in the container, and (c) an applicator in which at least a portion of the container and the susceptor material are arranged; arranging the material adjacent the tube; introducing a plurality of electromagnetic waves into the applicator to irradiate at least a portion of the susceptor material with the plurality of electromagnetic waves to generate heat while the material is adjacent the tube or container to produce a heated material.

111. The method of claim 110, wherein the material comprises a solid.

112. The method of claim 110, wherein the arranging of the material adjacent the tube or container comprises contacting the tube or container with the material.

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