Photoreactor assembly

Abstract

The invention provides a photoreactor assembly (1000) comprising a reactor (200) and a light source arrangement (1010); wherein: the light source arrangement (1010) comprises a plurality of light sources (10) configured to generate light source radiation (11) selected from one or more of UV radiation, visible radiation and IR radiation, wherein each light source (10) comprises a light emitting surface (12); the reactor (200) is configured for containing a fluid (5) to be treated with the light source radiation (11), wherein the reactor (200) comprises one or more reactor walls (210), wherein at least one of the one or more reactor walls (210) defines a wall cavity (220) and is configured to be in a radiation receiving relationship with the plurality of light sources (10); wherein at least one of the one or more reactor walls (210) is transmissive for the light source radiation (11); wherein one or more of the light sources (10) is at least partially configured in the wall cavity (220), whereby the light emitting surface (12) is within the wall cavity (220), and at least one of the one or more reactor walls (210) at least partially encloses the light emitting surface (12).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a photoreactor assembly, comprising a reactor and a light source device. The invention also relates to a method for treating fluids using light source radiation. Background Technology

[0002] Photoreactor assemblies are known in the art. For example, US20100247401A1 describes an apparatus for performing radiation-assisted chemical processing, the apparatus including a fluid path and a gas discharge or plasma chamber, the fluid path being defined at least partially by a first surface of a wall that is transparent to radiation, the radiation being useful for performing radiation-assisted chemical processing, the gas discharge or plasma chamber being arranged to generate radiation, wherein the chamber is defined at least partially by a second surface of the transparent wall opposite the first surface. The patent also describes a related method for forming a photocatalytic reactor, which includes, among other steps, washing the fluid path to deposit a photocatalytic material therein, wherein the washing step includes depositing the photocatalytic material on or from a first portion of a non-circular cross-section of the path and not depositing or removing the photocatalytic material, the second portion comprising at least some of the first surface of the wall of transparent material. Summary of the Invention

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

[0004] One of the benefits of photochemistry is that reactions can be carried out at lower temperatures than conventional thermochemistry, and in part for this reason, thermal side reactions that generate unwanted byproducts are avoided.

[0005] Furthermore, commonly used light sources in photochemistry can include low- or medium-pressure mercury lamps or fluorescent lamps. In addition, some reactions may require very specific wavelength ranges, and they may even be impeded by light emitted from sources at other wavelengths. In these cases, portions of the spectrum may have to be filtered out, which can lead to inefficient and complex reactor designs.

[0006] In recent years, the output of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) has increased dramatically, making them promising candidates for light sources in photochemistry, including both direct LEDs with dominant wavelengths ranging from UVC to IR and phosphor-converted LEDs. High flux can be achieved from small surface areas, especially where LEDs can be kept at low temperatures.

[0007] In existing systems, a significant proportion of the light source radiation may go unused; that is, it does not interact with the reagents / fluids in the reactor but may instead leave the system, possibly lost due to Fresnel reflection and / or absorbed by other components in the system. In particular, the light source radiation can be absorbed, which may result in excessive heat generation in the photoreactor assembly, potentially leading to unwanted byproducts and / or reduced LED efficiency, and / or the light source radiation may be reflected at the reactor walls and may not enter the reactor at all, or only enter after (multiple) reflections, potentially resulting in (some) loss of efficiency.

[0008] Therefore, one aspect of the present invention is to provide an alternative photoreactor assembly that preferably also at least partially eliminates one or more of the aforementioned disadvantages. The object of the present invention may be to overcome or improve at least one of the disadvantages of the prior art, or to provide a useful alternative. The object of the present invention may be to improve the performance of the photochemical reactor by increasing the efficiency of light utilization, increasing intensity, and / or reducing unwanted heat generation.

[0009] Therefore, in a first aspect, the present invention can provide a photoreactor assembly (also referred to as a "reactor assembly" or "assembly") comprising a reactor and a light source device. The light source device may include a plurality of light sources configured to generate light source radiation (or "light source light"), particularly light source radiation selected from one or more of UV radiation, visible radiation, and IR radiation. In embodiments, the light source radiation may include UV radiation. In other embodiments, the light source radiation may also include visible radiation. In still some other embodiments, the light source radiation may also include IR radiation. In embodiments, each light source may include a corresponding luminescent surface. The reactor may be configured to contain a fluid (also referred to as a "reactor fluid") to be treated, particularly with light source radiation. In embodiments, the (reactor) fluid may include one or more liquids. The (reactor) fluid may particularly include one or more gases. In still some other embodiments, the fluid may include a mixture of (multiple) gases and (multiple) liquids. The reactor may include one or more reactor walls. In embodiments, at least one of the one or more reactor walls (at least a portion of a reactor wall) defines a wall cavity (or "cavity") and is configured to be in a radiation receiving relationship with (at least a portion of) a plurality of light sources. In another embodiment, at least one of the one or more reactor walls (or "first wall") is transmissive to light source radiation. In another embodiment, one or more of the plurality of light sources are at least partially disposed within the wall cavity, particularly such that the light-emitting surface is within the wall cavity and at least one of the one or more reactor walls at least partially surrounds the light-emitting surface.

[0010] Therefore, the reactor wall can have a cavity in which a light source can be arranged. This allows the light source to be closer to the reactor fluid during operation. Specifically, the reactor may include a reactor chamber configured to contain the reactor fluid, and the reactor chamber may be arranged to at least partially surround the cavity. Furthermore, the light source (especially the luminescent surface of the light source) may be arranged such that the vast majority (virtually all) of the emitted light radiation is directed towards the reactor chamber, particularly towards the reactor fluid within the reactor chamber. Additionally, the cavity may have a dome-shaped shape, which is arranged to reduce the loss of light radiation due to Fresnel reflection. In particular, the cavity and the light source may be arranged (relative to each other) to provide a small angle of incidence (relative to the surface normal) of the light radiation on the cavity. Therefore, the photoreactor system of the present invention can improve the efficiency of light utilization while reducing unwanted heat generation.

[0011] Specifically, the light source can be arranged within the cavity such that virtually all light (within ±90°) has an incident angle close to 0° on the cavity wall (thus minimizing Fresnel reflection). Furthermore, the reactor chamber through which the reactor fluid flows can extend over the complete bend of the cavity wall, so virtually all light passing through the reactor wall can interact with the reactor fluid.

[0012] In particular, the photoreactor assembly of the present invention can be relatively efficient in terms of the power input of the light source compared to the light source. Specifically, the photoreactor assembly can be highly efficient in terms of capturing radiation by the fluid (especially by reactants in the fluid). The reaction can be carried out more efficiently in the reactor compared to prior art solutions. Therefore, a higher yield (per unit of time and / or per unit of power) of the desired product can be obtained in the reactor assembly compared to prior art systems.

[0013] In a specific embodiment, the present invention may provide a photoreactor assembly comprising a reactor and a light source device; wherein: the light source device comprises a plurality of light sources configured to generate light source radiation selected from one or more of UV radiation, visible radiation, and IR radiation, wherein each light source includes a light-emitting surface; and the reactor is configured to contain a fluid to be treated with light source radiation, wherein the reactor comprises one or more reactor walls, wherein at least one of the one or more reactor walls defines a wall cavity and is configured to be in a radiation receiving relationship with the plurality of light sources; wherein the at least one of the one or more reactor walls is transmissive to the light source radiation; wherein the one or more light sources are at least partially disposed in the wall cavity, such that the light-emitting surface is within the wall cavity, and the at least one of the one or more reactor walls at least partially surrounds the light-emitting surface.

[0014] Therefore, the present invention can provide a photoreactor assembly. As in the methods of the present invention, the photoreactor assembly can be used to treat (reactor) fluids with light source radiation. The term "(reacting with light source radiation) fluids" and similar phrases can particularly refer to irradiating fluids with light source radiation. Fluids particularly include photosensitive reactants (including photocatalysts and / or photosensitizers) that are particularly sensitive to light source radiation (see below). The term "(reactor) fluid" can refer to a variety of fluids. Furthermore, the fluid can include liquids and / or gases. In addition, the fluid may enter the reactor as a liquid in embodiments and may, in specific embodiments, become (partially) gaseous when heated in the reactor. A variety of different fluids can be mixed and (configured) to provide a homogeneous flow in the reactor during operation. In another embodiment, a variety of different fluids can be selected to provide a segmented flow in the reactor during operation. A variety of fluids can also be selected to provide a slug flow in the reactor during operation.

[0015] Therefore, the fluid can have a liquid phase, a gas phase, or a combination of liquid and gas phases. The fluid can include a mixture of different fluids. In one embodiment, the fluid can include a homogeneous mixture of different fluids. In another embodiment, the fluid can include a heterogeneous mixture of fluids.

[0016] A photoreactor assembly may include a reactor and a light source device.

[0017] The term "reactor" can particularly refer to a (photo)chemical reactor. The term essentially refers to an enclosed (reactor) chamber in which a (photochemical) reaction can occur. The reactor chamber can particularly have a reactor volume. In embodiments, the reactor may include one or more reactor walls defining the reactor chamber (especially surrounding the reactor chamber).

[0018] The term "light source device" herein can refer to an arrangement of multiple light sources, i.e., a spatial arrangement (relative to the reactor, particularly relative to the reactor chamber). Therefore, a light source device may include multiple light sources. In one embodiment, the light sources may be arranged independently within the cavity. In another embodiment, the light sources may be connected to each other, for example, via a support element that houses the light sources. Therefore, in another embodiment, the light source device may include a support element, such as a plate-like support element, on which multiple light sources are arranged.

[0019] In embodiments, at least a portion of the multiple light sources comprise light-emitting diodes (LEDs), particularly arrays of LEDs. The term "array" can specifically refer to multiple (different) arrays. In another embodiment, at least a portion of the multiple light sources comprise on-board chip light sources (COBs). The term "COB" specifically refers to LED chips in the form of semiconductor chips that are neither encapsulated nor connected but directly mounted to a substrate such as a printed circuit board. In embodiments, the COB and / or LEDs can comprise direct LEDs (having a dominant wavelength ranging, for example, from UVC to IR wavelengths). In another embodiment, the COB and / or LEDs comprise one or more phosphor-converted LEDs. Using such light sources, high intensity radiation (light) can be provided for each light source or each light source (supporting) element (see below). In embodiments, for example, the light sources can provide 100 lumens to 25,000 lumens (visible light) per light source. In embodiments, the light sources can, for example, consume 0.5 to 500 watts per light source (input power).

[0020] In one embodiment, the multiple light sources may include (a single) on-board chip light source and / or (a single) light-emitting diode and / or (a single) laser diode. In another embodiment, the light sources may include an array of light-emitting diode and / or laser diode sources. Therefore, in one embodiment, the multiple light sources may include one or more of on-board chip light sources, light-emitting diodes, and laser diodes. In another embodiment, the multiple light sources include an array of light-emitting diodes and / or on-board chip light sources.

[0021] The light source can be configured to generate light source radiation, particularly light source radiation selected from one or more of UV radiation, visible radiation and IR radiation.

[0022] The term "UV radiation" is known to those skilled in the art and relates to "ultraviolet radiation," "ultraviolet emission," or "ultraviolet light," particularly having one or more wavelengths in the range of about 10 nm to 400 nm or 10 nm to 380 nm. In embodiments, UV radiation may particularly have one or more wavelengths in the range of about 100 nm to 400 nm or 100 nm to 380 nm. Furthermore, the term "UV radiation" and similar terms may also refer to one or more of UVA, UVB, and UVC radiation. UVA radiation may particularly refer to one or more wavelengths in the range of about 315 nm to 400 nm. UVB radiation may particularly refer to one or more wavelengths in the range of about 280 nm to 315 nm. UVC radiation may also particularly have one or more wavelengths in the range of about 100 nm to 280 nm. In embodiments, the light source may be configured to provide light source radiation with a wavelength greater than about 190 nm.

[0023] The terms “visible,” “visible light,” “visible emission,” or “visible radiation,” and similar terms refer to light having one or more wavelengths in the range of about 380 nm to 780 nm.

[0024] The term "IR radiation" specifically refers to "infrared radiation," "infrared emission," or "infrared light," particularly having one or more wavelengths in the range of 780 nm to 1 mm. Furthermore, the term "IR radiation" and similar terms can also refer to one or more of NIR, SWIR, MWIR, LWIR, and FIR radiation. NIR can specifically refer to near-infrared radiation having one or more wavelengths in the range of about 750 nm to 1400 nm. SWIR can specifically refer to short-wavelength infrared radiation having one or more wavelengths in the range of about 1400 nm to 3000 nm. MWIR can specifically refer to mid-wavelength infrared radiation having one or more wavelengths in the range of about 3000 nm to 8000 nm. LWIR can specifically refer to long-wavelength infrared radiation having one or more wavelengths in the range of about 8 μm to 15 μm. FIR can specifically refer to far-infrared radiation having one or more wavelengths in the range of about 15 μm to 1000 μm.

[0025] In embodiments, each light source may include a (corresponding) emitting surface. The term "emitting surface" herein may refer to the surface of a light source from which it emits light radiation. In particular, in embodiments, the emitting surface may be the (top) surface of a diode (such as an LED, laser, or superluminescent diode). In embodiments, the emitting surface may be planar. In other embodiments, the emitting surface may be curved, particularly convex, or particularly concave.

[0026] In an embodiment, each light source may have an optical axis, wherein the light source emits substantially all of the light source radiation at an angle of less than 120°, such as less than 100°, especially less than 90° with respect to the optical axis, such as at least 90% of the light source radiation, especially at least 95% of the light source radiation, such as at least 99% of the light source radiation, including 100%.

[0027] In an embodiment, each light source may have substantially Lambertian emission characteristics, that is, the light source emits substantially all light source radiation at an angle of less than 90° relative to the optical axis.

[0028] In particular, the optical axis can be defined as an imaginary line defining a (weighted average) path along which light propagates from the light-generating element (here, especially the light source) through the system. Therefore, the optical axis can, in particular, coincide with the weighted average path of the emitted light source radiation. Typically, the optical axis can coincide with the normal at the center of the emitting surface.

[0029] A reactor can be configured to contain a fluid to be treated by light source radiation. Specifically, the reactor may include a reactor chamber, particularly a reactor channel, configured to contain the fluid. The term "reactor channel" may refer herein, in particular, to a reactor chamber having an elongated shape, especially in which, during use, fluid flows from one end of the reactor chamber to the other. Therefore, the length of the reactor channel can be particularly greater than the (circular equivalent) (inner) diameter of the reactor channel. In embodiments, the ratio of the length of the reactor channel to the (circular equivalent) (inner) diameter of the reactor channel can be greater than 5, particularly greater than 10.

[0030] A reactor may include one or more reactor walls. One or more reactor walls may define a reactor chamber, or in particular a reactor passage.

[0031] In embodiments, the reactor chamber (especially reactor channels) may have flow paths, particularly where the flow paths are meandering. The flow paths may meander in a first dimension due to wall cavities that may penetrate the reactor chamber. The flow paths may also meander in a second dimension, which may be perpendicular to the first dimension. This meandering can particularly help to provide turbulence within the reactor chamber.

[0032] One or more reactor walls (especially at least one of the reactor walls) may have an average reactor wall thickness, particularly selected from the range of 0.4 mm to 12 mm, particularly selected from the range of 0.5 mm to 10 mm, such as selected from the range of 0.7 mm to 8 mm. The reactor wall thickness may be measured (at each location) particularly perpendicular to the surface of the reactor wall. Due to wall cavities, and optionally due to corrugations in the reactor wall (see below), and optionally due to the meandering flow path of the fluid, the reactor wall thickness may not be constant along the reactor. In another embodiment, at least 80%, such as at least 90%, particularly at least 95%, of at least one of the reactor walls may have a reactor wall thickness of at least 1 mm, particularly at least 2 mm, such as at least 5 mm.

[0033] In an embodiment, at least one of the one or more reactor walls may define a wall cavity. Specifically, at least one of the one or more reactor walls may include an inner side and an outer side, wherein the inner side points towards the reactor chamber, and the wall cavity is arranged in the outer side. Therefore, in an embodiment, the wall cavity may be fluid-separated from the reactor chamber. In particular, the wall cavity may be recessed relative to the outer side of at least one of the one or more reactor walls; that is, the wall cavity may be recessed relative to the minimum convex hull comprising at least one of the one or more reactor walls.

[0034] In another embodiment, one or more cavities within the wall cavity (especially each cavity) may have an independently selected dome shape, particularly a dome shape selected from the group consisting of geodesic dome shapes, elliptical dome shapes, oval dome shapes, and hemispherical dome shapes. In particular, the wall cavity may have a dome shape that is substantially conformal to the Lambertian emission profile (similar to a male-female configuration).

[0035] In another embodiment, one or more wall cavities (especially each wall cavity) may have at least partially the shape of a substantially spherical cap.

[0036] In another embodiment, one or more wall cavities (especially each wall cavity) may have a cross-sectional shape that at least partially conforms to a substantially Gaussian shape.

[0037] A wall cavity of this shape can provide the following benefits: virtually all the light radiation provided by a light source arranged (centrally) in the wall cavity can be incident on at least one of the reactor walls at an angle of ≤40°, such as ≤20°, especially on the dome section, which can reduce losses due to Fresnel reflection.

[0038] In another embodiment, at least 70%, such as at least 80%, and especially at least 90%, of the light radiation provided by the light source (centrally arranged) in the wall cavity may be incident on at least one reactor wall of one or more reactor walls at an angle of ≤40°, such as ≤20°. In another embodiment, at least 95%, such as at least 98%, and especially at least 99%, including 100%, of the light radiation provided by the light source (centrally arranged) in the wall cavity may be incident on at least one reactor wall of one or more reactor walls at an angle of ≤40°, such as ≤20°.

[0039] Regardless, some of the light source radiation can still be reflected by one or more reactor walls, particularly by at least one of the reactor walls. Therefore, in embodiments, the photoreactor assembly may further include a reflector element (or “reflective element”), specifically wherein the reflector element is configured to reflect the light source radiation. In particular, the luminescent surface of one or more of the light sources may be disposed between at least one of the reactor walls and the reflector element. Furthermore, the luminescent surface of one or more of the light sources may point towards at least one of the reactor walls, and particularly away from the reflector element. Thus, the reflector element may be configured to reflect the light source radiation reflected by the one or more reactor walls back to the one or more reactor walls.

[0040] The term "reflector element" specifically refers to an element capable of reflecting light source radiation. In particular, when provided with a reflector element, at least 50% of the light source radiation can be reflected. In embodiments, the reflector element can reflect at least 60%, such as at least 70%, and especially at least 80%, of the light source radiation incident on the reflector element. In other embodiments, the reflector element can reflect at least 90%, such as at least 95%, of the light source radiation incident on the reflector element. The reflector element may, for example, include a (reflective) coating or a reflective surface. In embodiments, an object including a reflector element may be (at least partially) made of a reflective material. For example, the object may be made of a reflective metal or another (non-metallic) material capable of reflecting light source radiation. In a specific embodiment, one or more of the thermally conductive elements are made of a thermally conductive material that also reflects light source radiation.

[0041] Additionally, the reflector element may also include an optical layer. At least a portion of the reflector element may also include, for example, one or more of boron nitride (BN), aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃), aluminum, a dichroic layer, a reflective polymer, and titanium dioxide (TiO₂). The optical layer may include a silver-containing layer (or "silver reflector") or a dichroic layer. This layer may include (microporous) polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). In embodiments, the reflector element includes one or more of aluminum, boron nitride, aluminum oxide, silver, a dichroic layer, and (microporous) PTFE.

[0042] In an embodiment, one or more of the light sources may be at least partially disposed within the wall cavity, particularly with the light-emitting surface located within the wall cavity. Specifically, one or more of the light sources may be centrally arranged within the wall cavity.

[0043] In an embodiment, at least one of the one or more reactor walls may at least partially surround the luminescent surface. Specifically, each wall cavity (especially each dome segment) may at least partially surround the luminescent surface of the (corresponding) light source. In an embodiment, the light source may be arranged within the wall cavity, wherein the light source has a luminescent surface, wherein the luminescent surface defines at least a portion of a plane, wherein the plane, together with at least one of the one or more reactor walls (especially with the (corresponding) dome segment), surrounds a space.

[0044] Specifically, the cavity can be covered by a virtual plane, wherein the virtual plane and at least one of one or more walls define the enclosed (virtual) (cavity) space. A light-emitting surface can be arranged in this space, that is, the light-emitting surface can be arranged between the virtual plane and at least one of one or more walls, and in particular, the light-emitting surface can point towards at least one of the one or more walls.

[0045] In an embodiment, the virtual plane can be bent, particularly along at most one axis.

[0046] In another embodiment, at least one of the one or more reactor walls may be configured to be in a radiation receiving relationship with at least a portion of a plurality of light sources. In particular, the light sources may be arranged in a wall cavity of at least one of the one or more reactor walls, especially wherein the light sources are configured to provide light source radiation to at least one of the one or more reactor walls.

[0047] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the phrase "configured to provide light source radiation to X" and similar phrases indicate that the light source radiation travels along a path intersecting X. Therefore, the light source can provide light source radiation to the reactor wall, where the light source radiation passes through the reactor wall into the reactor fluid (during operation).

[0048] In another embodiment, at least one of the reactor walls may include a dome segment having a (independently selected) dome shape, particularly selected from the group consisting of geodesic dome shapes, elliptical dome shapes, ovate dome shapes, and hemispherical dome shapes. The dome segment may particularly define a wall cavity. In such an embodiment, the dome segment may be configured to be in a radiation receiving relationship with at least a portion of a plurality of light sources. Specifically, the light sources may be arranged in the wall cavity of at least one of the reactor walls, particularly wherein the light sources are configured to provide light source radiation to the dome segment. In an embodiment, each light source may be configured to provide at least 60%, such as at least 70%, particularly at least 80%, of the emitted light source radiation to the (corresponding) dome segment. In another embodiment, each light source may be configured to provide at least 90%, such as at least 95%, particularly at least 99%, including 100%, of the emitted light source radiation to the (corresponding) dome segment.

[0049] In another embodiment, each light source may be configured to provide at least 60%, such as at least 70%, and especially at least 80%, of the emitted light source radiation to the fluid via the (corresponding) dome section. In another embodiment, each light source may be configured to provide at least 90%, such as at least 95%, and especially at least 99%, including 100%, of the emitted light source radiation to the fluid via the (corresponding) dome section. In embodiments, at least one of the one or more reactor walls may be (at least partially) transmissive to the light source radiation. In particular, the light source radiation provided to at least one of the one or more reactor walls may pass through the reactor wall (substantially) without obstruction.

[0050] In embodiments, one or more reactor walls (especially at least one of the reactor walls) may be made of glass. One or more reactor walls (especially at least one of the reactor walls) may be made, for example, of quartz, borosilicate glass, soda-lime (silicon), high-silicon high-temperature glass, aluminosilicate glass, or sodium-barium soft glass (or sodium-barium glass) (PH160 glass). The glass may be sold, for example, by Vycor, Corex, or Pyrex. One or more reactor walls (especially at least one of the reactor walls) in embodiments are (at least partially) made of amorphous silica (e.g., known as fused silica), fused quartz, quartz glass, or quartz. One or more reactor walls (especially at least one of the reactor walls) in other embodiments may be at least partially made of a (transmissive) polymer. Suitable polymers are, for example, poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), silicone / polysiloxane, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), perfluoroalkoxyalkanes (PFA), and fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP). One or more reactor walls (especially at least one of the reactor walls) may also comprise a transmission ceramic material. Examples of transmission ceramics are, for example, alumina (Al₂O₃), yttrium aluminum garnet (YAG), and spinels, such as magnesium aluminate spinel (MgAl₂O₄) and aluminum oxynitride spinel (Al₂O₃). 23 O 27 N5). In embodiments, for example, one or more reactor walls (especially at least one of the one or more reactor walls) are (at least partially) made of one of these ceramics. In still other embodiments, one or more reactor walls (especially at least one of the one or more reactor walls) may comprise a transmissive material (made of a transmissive material), such as BaF2, CaF2, and MgF2. The material of one or more reactor walls (especially at least one of the one or more reactor walls) may also be selected based on the fluid to be disposed of. In particular, materials that are inert to the fluid (of the compound) may be selected.

[0051] In another embodiment, one or more reactor walls (especially at least one of the one or more reactor walls) may comprise a material selected from the group consisting of polyfluoroalkoxy (PFA), FEP, ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE), and PMMA. In particular, these materials may be transparent to UV radiation.

[0052] Photochemical reactions can be carried out in a reactor by irradiating a fluid in the reactor with light source radiation. Therefore, one or more reactor walls (especially at least one of the one or more reactor walls) can be configured to transmit light source radiation. The term "transmission" in the phrase "transmit light source radiation" specifically refers to the property of allowing light source radiation to pass through (the wall). In embodiments, one or more reactor walls (especially at least one of the one or more reactor walls) may be translucent to light source radiation. However, in other embodiments, one or more reactor walls (especially at least one of the one or more reactor walls) are transparent to light source radiation. The term "transmission" does not necessarily imply that 100% of the light source radiation emitted toward the reactor wall can also pass through the wall. In embodiments, at least 50% of the light source radiation emitted toward the reactor wall can pass through the reactor wall, such as at least 70%, especially at least 90%. In other embodiments, at least 95% of the light source radiation emitted toward the reactor wall can pass through the reactor wall, such as at least 98%. The relative amount of light source radiation passing through the reactor wall can, for example, depend on the wavelength of the light source radiation.

[0053] In one embodiment, at least one of the one or more reactor walls may be configured to be transmissive to UV radiation. In another embodiment, at least one of the one or more reactor walls may, for example, also be configured to be transmissive to visible radiation. In still some other embodiments, at least one of the one or more reactor walls may be configured to be transmissive to IR radiation.

[0054] In an embodiment, one or more wall cavities may each contain a single light source. Therefore, each wall cavity may be arranged to at least partially surround the corresponding light source. Specifically, a single light source may be arranged in each wall cavity. Each light source may be arranged such that at least 80%, such as at least 90%, of the radiation emitted by the corresponding light source is incident on at least one reactor wall of one or more reactor walls at an angle of ≤40°, such as ≤20°, particularly on the corresponding dome section. This reduces losses due to Fresnel reflections.

[0055] The term "light source" can refer to semiconductor light-emitting devices, such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs), resonant cavity light-emitting diodes (RCLEDs), vertical cavity laser diodes (VCSELs), edge-emitting lasers, etc. The term "light source" can also refer to organic light-emitting diodes, such as passive matrix (PMOLED) or active matrix (AMOLED). In embodiments, multiple light sources can include solid-state light sources (such as LEDs or laser diodes). In other embodiments, multiple light sources can include one or more of on-board chip light sources, light-emitting diodes, laser diodes, and superluminescent diodes. In one embodiment, multiple light sources can include LEDs. The term LED can also refer to multiple LEDs. Furthermore, the term "light source" in embodiments can also refer to so-called chip-on-board (COB) light sources. The term "COB" specifically refers to LED chips in the form of semiconductor chips that are neither encapsulated nor connected but directly mounted to a substrate such as a PCB and / or heat sink. Therefore, multiple semiconductor light sources can be configured on the same substrate. In embodiments, a COB is a multi-LED chip configured together as a single lighting module. The term "light source" can also refer to multiple (substantially identical (or different)) light sources, such as 2 to 2000 solid-state light sources. In embodiments, the light source may include one or more micro-optical elements (arrays of microlenses) downstream of a single solid-state light source (such as an LED) or downstream of multiple solid-state light sources (i.e., shared by multiple LEDs). In embodiments, the light source may include an LED with on-chip optics. In embodiments, the light source includes pixelated individual LEDs (with or without optics) (providing on-chip beam manipulation in embodiments). In embodiments, the light source may include a laser module.

[0056] The phrases “different light sources” or “multiple different light sources” and similar phrases in the embodiments may refer to multiple solid-state light sources selected from at least two different bins. Similarly, the phrases “identical light sources” or “multiple identical light sources” and similar phrases in the embodiments may refer to multiple solid-state light sources selected from the same bin.

[0057] In embodiments, the wall cavities can be configured as a 2D array. Therefore, at least one of the one or more reactor walls can have a plate shape, particularly a curved (or “bent”) plate shape. The term “plate shape” can refer in particular herein to a shape having two dimensions that are much larger than a third dimension, such as at least 10 times, particularly at least 50 times, such as 100 times, the third dimension.

[0058] The term "plate shape" can also refer to a curved plate shape, such as a plate bent into a columnar shape. For example, at least one of one or more reactor walls may have a plate shape defining a tubular photoreactor chamber, and in particular a tubular photoreactor channel.

[0059] In another embodiment, the wall cavities may be arranged in at least one of one or more reactor walls according to a regular pattern. In particular, the regular pattern may be defined according to a tessellated grid of (regular) polygons, especially a tessellated grid of squares, or especially a tessellated grid of (regular) hexagons, wherein the wall cavities are arranged in each grid cell, such as at the center of each grid cell.

[0060] In one embodiment, the wall cavity may be arranged in a single reactor wall, particularly in at least one of one or more reactor walls, according to a regular pattern. In another embodiment, the wall cavity may be arranged in multiple reactor walls according to one or more regular patterns, particularly according to two or more (different) regular patterns, or particularly according to a single regular pattern.

[0061] In another embodiment, the cavity wall can have the largest possible circular equivalent diameter D, especially where the cavity wall has a pitch p. w , where 1≤p w / D≤3, especially 1≤p w / D≤2.

[0062] In another embodiment, the cavity wall can have the largest possible circular equivalent diameter D, especially where the light source has a pitch p. L , where 1≤p L / D≤3, especially 1≤p L / D≤2.

[0063] The equivalent circular diameter (or ECD) (or "circular equivalent diameter") of a two-dimensional shape (irregular shape) is the diameter of a circle with an equivalent area. For example, the equivalent circular diameter of a square with side length *a* is 2*a*SQRT(1 / π). For a circle, the diameter is the same as the equivalent circular diameter. If a circle with diameter D in the xy-plane is twisted into any other shape (in the xy-plane) without changing its area, the equivalent circular diameter of that shape will be D.

[0064] The term "pitch" in this document may specifically refer to the (shortest) (heart-to-heart) distance between repeating elements, such as, in the embodiments, the (shortest) (heart-to-heart) distance between light sources in a light source device, or the (shortest) (heart-to-heart) distance between the centers of the cavities in at least one of one or more reactor walls. Thus, if the cavities are arranged according to a regular pattern of tessellated squares, the pitch can be equal (in length) to the side (or "side length") of the square. Similarly, if the cavities are arranged according to a regular pattern of tessellated hexagons, the pitch can be equal (in length) to the side of the hexagon.

[0065] In an embodiment, at least a portion of the reactor may be defined by two parallel reactor walls. The two parallel reactor walls may, in particular, define (or “provide”) the reactor volume. In an embodiment, the two parallel reactor walls may define wall cavities and may be configured, in particular, to be in a radiation-receiving relationship with a plurality of light sources. As can be derived from the above, the reactor walls are particularly transmissive to the radiation from the light sources; and particularly wherein one or more of the light sources are at least partially disposed within the wall cavity of each reactor wall, and particularly wherein the luminescent surface is located within the wall cavity and the reactor wall at least partially surrounds the luminescent surface.

[0066] In another embodiment, the wall cavity may extend into the reactor volume. In particular, in another embodiment, the wall cavity may extend into the smallest bulge comprising the reactor chamber.

[0067] In another embodiment, the reactor wall may comprise two parallel reactor walls, particularly wherein each of the two parallel reactor walls has a plate shape, and particularly wherein each of the two parallel reactor walls defines a wall cavity, and particularly wherein each of the two parallel reactor walls is transmissive to light source radiation. In another embodiment, the two parallel reactor walls may be, in particular, two oppositely arranged reactor walls, i.e., the two parallel reactor walls may be arranged on opposite sides of the reactor, particularly on opposite sides of the reactor chamber.

[0068] In particular, in such embodiments, the reactor (especially the reactor chamber) can have a plate-like shape. Therefore, two parallel reactor walls can define at least a portion of the reactor, especially at least a portion of the reactor chamber.

[0069] In such an embodiment, two or more wall cavities in a first reactor wall of two parallel reactor walls can (substantially) define wall cavities in a second reactor wall of two parallel reactor walls. For example, if the wall cavities in the first reactor wall of two parallel reactor walls are arranged according to a square grid, then a set of four (2×2) wall cavities in the first reactor wall of two parallel reactor walls can define wall cavities arranged between them in the second reactor wall of two parallel reactor walls.

[0070] In such an embodiment, multiple light sources can be arranged within the wall cavities of two parallel reactor walls. Therefore, in another embodiment, the reactor fluid can be irradiated by the light sources via the two parallel reactor walls, particularly via two opposing reactor walls. Thus, in a specific embodiment, the two reactor walls (a) can define wall cavities, (b) can be configured to be in a radiation-receiving relationship with the multiple light sources (among others), and (c) can be transmissive to the radiation from the light sources.

[0071] In another embodiment, the wall cavities (and light source) can be arranged in two parallel reactor walls according to the same regular pattern. In this embodiment, the regular pattern can be mirrored, i.e., when the regular patterns of two oppositely arranged reactor walls are superimposed, the regular patterns overlap (substantially). Therefore, in such an embodiment, the wall cavities of the parallel reactor walls can be arranged in parallel. Thus, the reactor chambers can alternate between relatively narrow sections (arranged at the center of the grid cell, i.e., between two wall cavities of different reactor walls) and relatively wide sections (arranged at the edges of the grid cell, i.e., between two wall cavities of the same reactor wall).

[0072] In particular, in such embodiments, the surface area to volume ratio of the (wall) in the narrow section can be particularly high; that is, a relatively large surface area can exist in the narrow section relative to the volume of fluid within it, through which light source radiation is provided. Therefore, the intensity of the light source radiation can be locally increased. Alternatively, when the wall cavities of the parallel-arranged reactor walls are arranged in parallel, the parallel-arranged reactor walls can be further spaced apart, because the light sources in the opposing wall cavities can each irradiate a portion of the reactor fluid in the narrow section. This allows for a larger reactor chamber size, and in particular, allows for a larger circular equivalent diameter of the reactor channel.

[0073] Specifically, in an embodiment, the parallel reactor walls may be separated by a first distance d1 in narrow sections and a second distance d2 in wide sections. In an embodiment, d2 may be selected from the range of 0.1 mm to 10 mm, such as the range of 0.2 mm to 5 mm, especially the range of 0.5 mm to 5 mm, and particularly wherein d1 / d2 is selected from the range of 0.1 to 0.95, such as the range of 0.2 to 0.9, especially the range of 0.5 to 0.9. The first distance d1 and the second distance d2 may correspond in particular to the circular equivalent diameter of the reactor chamber, such as the circular equivalent diameter perpendicular to the flow path in the reactor chamber.

[0074] The term "node" refers to a grid point where multiple edges meet.

[0075] In another embodiment, for two parallel reactor walls, the regular pattern can be spatially shifted. Specifically, when the regular patterns of two parallel reactor walls are superimposed, the center of the grid cell of the first reactor wall can be aligned with the node of the grid cell of the second reactor wall. Therefore, the wall cavities on the parallel reactor walls can be spatially separated, allowing for efficient filling of the light source relative to the reactor chamber. In particular, in embodiments, the wall cavities of the parallel reactor walls can be arranged in a staggered configuration.

[0076] The intensity of the light source radiation can decrease rapidly with increasing distance into the reactor chamber (especially into the reactor fluid). Therefore, if the reactor fluid exhibits laminar flow, it may be unevenly exposed to the light source radiation. Consequently, in embodiments, the reactor wall (especially at least one of one or more reactor walls) may have a corrugated shape, particularly a corrugated shape at least partially defined by corrugations.

[0077] The corrugated shape can induce turbulence in the fluid flowing in the reactor, especially in the reactor chamber. Turbulence can disrupt laminar flow and thus result in a more uniform exposure of the reactor fluid to light source radiation.

[0078] In one embodiment, the corrugated portion may include a wall cavity. In another embodiment, the corrugated portion may define a wall cavity.

[0079] In an embodiment, the corrugation shape may be defined by a 1D corrugated portion. Thus, the reactor wall (in particular at least one of one or more reactor walls) may have a first dimension and a second dimension perpendicular to the first dimension, wherein the cross-section of the reactor wall is substantially straight along the first dimension and approximates a waveform, such as an approximate sine wave, along the second dimension.

[0080] In another embodiment, the corrugation shape may be defined by 2D corrugations. Thus, the reactor wall (in particular at least one of one or more reactor walls) may have a first dimension and a second dimension perpendicular to the first dimension, wherein the cross-section of the reactor wall along the first and second dimensions approximates a waveform, such as an approximate sine wave.

[0081] In another embodiment, the photoreactor assembly may include reactor walls, particularly two parallel reactor walls sandwiched between reflector elements.

[0082] In embodiments, the photoreactor assembly (especially the reactor chamber, or especially the reactor volume) may house flow-influencing elements. In particular, one or more reactor walls may include (or "define") flow-influencing elements. Flow-influencing elements may be configured, in particular, to increase turbulence in the reactor fluid.

[0083] In another embodiment, the flow-influencing element may be selected from the group consisting of protrusions, barriers, rods, thresholds, and narrow sections.

[0084] Flow-influencing elements can be configured, particularly within the reactor, especially within the reactor chamber, between adjacent wall cavities.

[0085] Therefore, in embodiments, the reactor wall may include an inner wall for contacting the reactor fluid, wherein the reactor wall includes flow-influencing elements disposed on the inner wall. Flow-influencing elements may particularly be disposed between adjacent wall cavities within the reactor wall.

[0086] In another embodiment, the inner wall may be shaped to facilitate the generation of turbulence, such as by inducing eddies.

[0087] In another embodiment, each wall cavity may define a reactor section surrounding the wall cavity. Specifically, the reactor chamber may be divided into multiple reactor sections corresponding to multiple wall cavities, wherein each reactor section includes the portion of the reactor closest to the corresponding wall cavity. Thus, each reactor section may be primarily irradiated by a light source arranged in the (corresponding) wall cavity.

[0088] The reactor chamber can be divided into multiple reactor sections and inter-reactor sections, wherein adjacent reactor sections can be fluidly connected via inter-reactor sections.

[0089] In another embodiment, the size of the inter-reactor channel can be selected such that the flow velocity [m / s] of the fluid in the inter-reactor channel is higher than the flow velocity of the fluid in the reactor sections, specifically at least 1.5 times, such as 2 times, the flow velocity of the fluid in the inter-reactor channel. In another embodiment, the flow velocity [m / s] of the fluid in the inter-reactor channel can be at least 3 times, such as at least 5 times, the flow velocity of the fluid in the reactor sections. Thus, the increased flow rate in the inter-reactor channel relative to the reactor sections can result in the fluid being exposed to light source radiation for a relatively large proportion of the time.

[0090] In this embodiment, the photoreactor assembly may include a temperature control element, particularly a temperature control channel. The temperature control element can be configured to control the temperature of the reactor, particularly the temperature of the reactor fluid.

[0091] Temperature control elements may include, in particular, cooling elements.

[0092] In embodiments, the temperature control element may include a temperature control channel. The term "temperature control channel" specifically refers to a channel / path configured in a photoreactor assembly that can hold a temperature-controlled (or cooling) fluid, particularly a fluid that can flow through the channel / path (e.g., by forced delivery or spontaneously). The term "temperature control channel" in embodiments may refer to multiple (different) temperature control channels. The temperature control fluid (especially the cooling fluid) may be a gas, such as air. The temperature control fluid may also be a liquid, such as water. The temperature control fluid may also be referred to as a "coolant." The temperature control channel is particularly configured to functionally contact (especially thermally contact) with the reactor, particularly with the reactor fluid. The temperature control fluid may be configured to cool the (reactor) fluid, particularly the reactor. In embodiments of the invention, temperature control may be interpreted particularly based on lowering the temperature, and therefore temperature control may be described herein primarily as cooling. However, in alternative embodiments, temperature control may include raising the temperature. Therefore, it will be understood that if the element is interpreted in relation to cooling, then the element may be used for heating in alternative embodiments. Therefore, in embodiments, the term "cooling" may be used interchangeably with the term "heating" (or "temperature control").

[0093] In a specific embodiment, the reactor (especially the reactor chamber, or especially the reactor volume) may be configured to be traversed by one or more temperature control channels.

[0094] In embodiments where the reactor includes reactor channels, the temperature control channels may be arranged (substantially) perpendicular to the reactor channels, particularly where the reactor includes multiple temperature control channels and multiple reactor channels arranged in a grid.

[0095] In an embodiment, the temperature control channel may be (at least partially) arranged in the reactor chamber, i.e., the reactor fluid may be in (direct) fluid contact with the outside of the temperature control channel.

[0096] In another embodiment, the temperature control channel can be positioned at a distance from the reactor chamber, i.e., the reactor fluid can be separated from the fluid in the temperature control channel. In such an embodiment, a thermally conductive material can be disposed between the reactor chamber and the temperature control channel. For example, a second reactor wall (in the reactor wall) may include a thermally conductive material, wherein the temperature control channel is disposed within the second reactor wall.

[0097] In another embodiment, the temperature control channel may be arranged at least partially parallel to the reactor channel and (via this at least partial portion) in thermal contact with the reactor channel. Thus, the area of ​​thermal contact between the temperature control channel and the reactor channel can be relatively large, which facilitates increased temperature control.

[0098] In this document, the term "thermal contact" may specifically refer to an arrangement of elements that can provide a thermal conductivity of at least about 10 W / m / K, such as at least 20 W / m / K, such as at least 50 W / m / K. In embodiments, the term "thermal contact" may specifically refer to an arrangement of elements that can provide a thermal conductivity of at least about 150 W / m / K, such as at least 170 W / m / K, and especially at least 200 W / m / K. In embodiments, the term "thermal contact" may specifically refer to an arrangement of elements that can provide a thermal conductivity of at least about 250 W / m / K, such as at least 300 W / m / K, and especially at least 400 W / m / K. For example, a metal support for a light source may provide a thermal conductivity of at least about 10 W / m / K between the light source and a fluid delivery channel, wherein the metal support is in physical contact with the light source and with the channel wall of the fluid delivery channel, wherein the light source is not in the fluid delivery channel. Suitable thermally conductive materials that can be used to provide thermal contact can be selected from the group consisting of copper, aluminum, silver, gold, silicon carbide, aluminum nitride, boron nitride, aluminum silicon carbide, beryllium oxide, silicon carbide composites, aluminum silicon carbide, copper-tungsten alloys, copper-molybdenum carbide, carbon, diamond, and graphite. Alternatively or additionally, the thermally conductive material may include or be composed of ceramic materials, such as alumina of the YAG type group (garnet), such as YAG. In particular, the thermally conductive material may include, for example, copper or aluminum.

[0099] Therefore, in the embodiments, one or more of the spectral power distribution of the light source radiation and the intensity of the light source radiation can be controllable, especially the spectral power distribution, or especially the intensity.

[0100] In specific embodiments, two or more of the multiple light sources can provide light source radiation with different spectral power distributions. For example, a first light source can be configured to generate UV radiation, and a second light source can be configured to generate visible radiation. In specific embodiments, the photoreactor assembly may include two or more light sources disposed at different locations along the reactor chamber, particularly along the flow path of the fluid.

[0101] The term "wavelength" may also refer to multiple wavelengths in this text. In particular, the term may refer to a wavelength distribution.

[0102] In another embodiment, the photoreactor assembly may further include a control system. The control system may be specifically configured to control the photoreactor assembly. For example, in one embodiment, the control system may be configured to control the flow of fluid through the reactor. In another embodiment, the control system may be configured to control the composition of the fluid. In another embodiment, the control system may be configured to control multiple light sources (independently). In another embodiment, the control system may be configured to control a temperature control element.

[0103] The term "control" and similar terms specifically refer to at least determining the behavior of an element or regulating the operation of an element. Therefore, "control" and similar terms as used herein can, for example, refer to applying behavior to an element (determining behavior or regulating the operation of the element), such as, for example, measuring, displaying, actuating, opening, shifting, changing temperature, etc. In addition, the term "control" and similar terms can additionally include monitoring. Thus, the term "control" and similar terms can include applying behavior to an element, as well as applying behavior to an element and monitoring the element. Control of the element can be accomplished using a control system, which can also be referred to as a "controller." The control system and the element can therefore be functionally coupled, at least temporarily or permanently. The element can include a control system. In embodiments, the control system and the element may not be physically coupled. Control can be accomplished via wired and / or wireless control. The term "control system" can also refer to multiple different control systems, which are particularly functionally coupled, and for example, one of the multiple different control systems can be a master control system, and one or more other control systems can be slave control systems. The control system can include or can be functionally coupled to a user interface.

[0104] The control system can also be configured to receive and execute commands from a remote controller. In one embodiment, the control system can be controlled via an application (App) on the device, such as a portable device like a smartphone or iPhone, tablet, etc. Therefore, the device does not necessarily need to be coupled to the lighting system, but can be (temporarily) functionally coupled to the lighting system.

[0105] A system, apparatus, or device may perform actions in a “mode,” “operating mode,” or “mode of operation.” Similarly, in a method, actions, stages, or steps may be performed in a “mode,” “operating mode,” “mode of operation,” or “operable mode.” The term “mode” may also be indicated as “control mode.” This does not preclude the system, apparatus, or device from being adapted to provide another control mode or multiple other control modes. Likewise, this does not preclude the possibility of performing one or more other modes before and / or after performing this mode.

[0106] However, in embodiments, the control system may be available, i.e., adapted to provide at least one control mode. If other modes are available, the selection of such modes can be performed, in particular, via a user interface, although other options (such as performing modes based on sensor signals or (time) schemes) may also be possible. In embodiments, an operating mode may also refer to a system, apparatus, or device that can only operate in a single operating mode (i.e., "on," without additional tunability).

[0107] Therefore, in this embodiment, the control system can perform control based on one or more of the following: input signals from the user interface, sensor signals (from sensors), and timers. The term "timer" can refer to a clock and / or a predetermined timing scheme.

[0108] During the use of photoreactor components, it can be beneficial to vary the spectral power distribution of the light source radiation temporally and / or spatially. For example, different spectral power distributions can be continuously supplied to the reactor, especially to the reactor chamber, and even more so to the fluid, for continuous chemical reactions or for controlling, for example, algal growth phenotypes. Similarly, it can be beneficial to vary the intensity of the light source radiation temporally and / or spatially.

[0109] Therefore, in embodiments, the control system can be configured to change one or more of the spectral power distribution and intensity of the light source radiation over time, especially the spectral power distribution, or especially the intensity.

[0110] In another embodiment, the control system may be configured to control one or more of the spectral power distribution and intensity of the light source radiation along one or more dimensions of the reactor, particularly the spectral power distribution, or particularly the intensity. In another embodiment, the one or more dimensions of the reactor may be selected from the group consisting of height, length, width, and (circular equivalent) diameter.

[0111] Those skilled in the art will understand that a combination of time and space control is also possible.

[0112] In embodiments, reactor fluid may flow along a fluid path through the reactor, particularly the reactor chamber, or particularly the reactor volume. Specifically, the reactor may include a reactor inlet and a reactor outlet, wherein during use of the reactor, reactor fluid flows along a fluid path from the reactor inlet to the reactor outlet, i.e., the fluid path may be a path from the reactor inlet to the reactor outlet through the reactor chamber.

[0113] In one embodiment, the fluid path may be arranged along at least 5 wall cavities, such as at least 10 wall cavities, and especially at least 20 wall cavities (or "encounter" at least 5 wall cavities, such as at least 10 wall cavities, and especially at least 20 wall cavities). In another embodiment, the fluid path may be arranged along at least 50 wall cavities, such as at least 100 wall cavities.

[0114] In another embodiment, at least five light sources, such as at least ten, and especially at least 20, can be arranged to irradiate the fluid path (fluid flowing along the fluid path). In another embodiment, at least 50 light sources, such as at least 100, can be arranged to irradiate the fluid path (fluid flowing along the fluid path). In particular, in embodiments, each wall cavity arranged along the fluid path may include a (single) light source configured to irradiate the fluid path (fluid flowing along the fluid path).

[0115] The reactor assembly can be used to dispose of fluids. As a result, (photosensitive) reactants in the fluid can react. Furthermore, the term "disposing of fluids by irradiation with a light source" in the embodiments can refer to performing a (photochemical) reaction on the fluid (reactants in it).

[0116] This document also uses the term "irradiated fluid," as in the phrase "irradiate fluid with light source radiation." This term can specifically refer to providing light source radiation to a fluid. Therefore, the terms "(provide light source radiation to a fluid)" and "irradiate (fluid) with light source radiation" are particularly interchangeable in this document. Furthermore, the terms "light" and "radiation" are interchangeable in this document, especially with respect to light source radiation.

[0117] In an embodiment, the light source device may include multiple light sources arranged on a (monolithic) support element. During use, the support element may be removably attached, in particular, to at least one of the one or more reactor walls. Thus, the light sources can be conveniently (appropriately) (all at once) arranged within the wall cavity, and the light source device can be easily detached from the reactor wall to access one or more of the multiple light sources. Furthermore, such a configuration allows for easy assembly of the photoreactor assembly and also allows for rapid changing of one or more of the light sources (e.g., when a different radiation wavelength is required).

[0118] In an embodiment, the support element may include a reflector element, particularly wherein the reflector element includes a reflective coating.

[0119] In another embodiment, the support element may be thermally conductive; that is, the support element may include a thermally conductive material. In another embodiment, the support element may be thermally coupled to a temperature control channel. In another embodiment, the support element may include or be thermally coupled to a heat sink.

[0120] The light source can be arranged on the support element in a manner compatible with the (regular) pattern of the cavity in at least one of the reactor walls. Specifically, one or more light sources can be arranged on a support member, which is positioned on the support element. This support member can be configured to improve and / or standardize the arrangement of the light source within the cavity. In one embodiment, the support member can be configured to elevate the light source relative to the support element (or "move the light source away from the support element"). In another embodiment, the support member can be configured to arrange the light source (its luminescent surface) at an angle to the support element.

[0121] In another aspect, the present invention can provide a method for treating a fluid with light source radiation. In particular, the method can be included in the reactor of a photoreactor assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, especially in a reactor chamber, providing the fluid (to be treated with light source radiation). The method may also include irradiating the fluid with light source radiation.

[0122] Therefore, in a specific embodiment, the present invention provides a method for treating a fluid by irradiation with a light source, wherein the method includes: providing the fluid to be treated by irradiation with a light source in a reactor of a photoreactor assembly according to the present invention; and irradiating the fluid with the light source.

[0123] In an embodiment, the method may include: conveying the fluid through a reactor, particularly while irradiating the fluid with a light source.

[0124] In another embodiment, the method may include controlling one or more of the spectral power distribution and intensity of the light source radiation along one or more dimensions of the reactor, particularly the spectral power distribution, or particularly the intensity. The one or more dimensions of the reactor may be selected, in particular, from the group consisting of height, length, width, and (circular equivalent) diameter.

[0125] Irradiating a fluid with a light source can induce a photochemical reaction. In embodiments, the (photochemical) reaction includes a photocatalytic reaction. In embodiments, the method further includes providing a photocatalyst and / or a photosensitizer to the (reactor) fluid before and / or during irradiation with a light source.

[0126] In one embodiment, the method includes batch processing. In other embodiments, the method includes a continuous process. Therefore, in a specific embodiment, the method includes conveying fluid through a reactor while simultaneously irradiating the fluid with a light source.

[0127] The photoreactor assembly may include, in particular, one or more temperature control elements (as described herein). The method may also include conveying a temperature-controlled fluid through and / or along one or more of the temperature control elements.

[0128] In some other embodiments, the method includes selecting a light source radiation from one or more of UV radiation, visible radiation, and IR radiation before irradiating the fluid with the light source radiation. The light source radiation can be selected, in particular, by selecting multiple light sources to generate the (selected) light source radiation. The light source radiation can also be selected based on the fluid to be treated, especially based on (photosensitive) reactants and / or photocatalysts and / or photosensitizers in the fluid.

[0129] In another embodiment, one or more light sources are controlled to irradiate with different intensities and / or wavelength distributions.

[0130] In another embodiment, the dome-shaped shape of the cavity may at least partially have the shape of a spherical cap.

[0131] Many photochemical reactions are known, such as dissociation reactions, isomerization or rearrangement reactions, addition reactions, substitution reactions, and, for example, redox reactions. In embodiments, the (photochemical) reactions include photocatalytic reactions. Photochemical reactions can, in particular, use the energy of light source radiation to change the quantum state of a system (atom or molecule) (which absorbs energy) to an excited state. In the excited state, the system can also continuously react with itself or other systems (atoms, molecules) and / or can initiate additional reactions. In specific embodiments, the rate of the photochemical reaction can be controlled by adding a (photo)catalyst or photosensitizer. The terms “treating,” “treated,” etc., as used herein (such as in the phrase “treating a fluid with a light source (light)”) can therefore refer, in particular, to performing a photochemical reaction on a relevant (especially photosensitive) system (atom or molecule) in a fluid, particularly thereby raising the system (atom, molecule) to a higher energy state and, in particular, inducing additional reactions. In embodiments, a photoactive compound can be provided to the fluid before and / or during irradiation. For example, a photocatalyst and / or photosensitizer can be added to initiate and / or promote / accelerate the photochemical reaction.

[0132] Furthermore, in this paper, such atoms or molecules can also be named "(photosensitive) reactants". Therefore, the reactor fluid may include (photosensitive) reactants.

[0133] When absorbing radiation (light) from a light source, the energy of photons can be absorbed. Photon energy can also be expressed as hν, where h is Planck's constant and ν is the frequency of the photon. Therefore, the amount of energy supplied to atoms or molecules can be provided in discrete quantities, and in particular as a function of the frequency of the light (photons). Furthermore, exciting atoms or molecules to higher states may also require a specific amount of energy, which preferably matches the amount of energy supplied by the photons. This also explains why different photochemical reactions may require light of different wavelengths. Therefore, in embodiments, the photoreactor assembly can be configured to control the wavelength of the light source radiation.

[0134] The embodiments described herein are not limited to any single aspect of the invention. For example, embodiments describing methods may also relate to systems, particularly to operating modes of systems, or particularly to control systems. Similarly, system embodiments describing system operation may also relate to method embodiments. In particular, method embodiments describing (system) operation may indicate that a system can be configured in an embodiment for and / or adapted to that operation. Similarly, embodiments describing (system) operation may indicate that a method can include that operation in an embodiment. Attached Figure Description

[0135] Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts, and in the accompanying drawings:

[0136] Figures 1A-1D An embodiment of the photoreactor assembly is schematically depicted.

[0137] Figures 2A-2B An embodiment of a photoreactor assembly is schematically depicted.

[0138] Figures 3A-3B An embodiment of a photoreactor assembly is illustrated schematically.

[0139] The diagram is not necessarily to scale. Detailed Implementation

[0140] Figure 1AAn embodiment of a photoreactor assembly 1000 is schematically depicted. The photoreactor assembly includes a reactor 200 and a light source device 1010. The light source device 1010 includes a plurality of light sources 10 configured to generate light source radiation 11, particularly light source radiation 11 selected from one or more of UV radiation, visible radiation, and IR radiation. Specifically, each light source 10 may include a light-emitting surface 12, wherein the light-emitting surface 12 emits light source radiation 11. The reactor 200 may be configured to contain a fluid 5 to be treated with the light source radiation 11. The reactor 200 may include one or more reactor walls 210, particularly wherein at least one of the one or more reactor walls 210 defines a wall cavity 220 and is configured to be in a radiation receiving relationship with the plurality of light sources 10. In an embodiment, at least one of the one or more reactor walls 210 may be transmissive to the light source radiation 11.

[0141] In the depicted embodiment, one or more of the light sources 10 are at least partially disposed within the wall cavity 220, particularly whereby the light-emitting surface 12 is located within the wall cavity 220. Specifically, at least one of the one or more reactor walls 210 at least partially surrounds the light-emitting surface 12. In the depicted embodiment, one or more wall cavities 220 each contain a single light source 10. The wall cavity 220 may, in particular, have a dome-shaped shape, such as... Figure 1A As depicted in [the text]. The dome-shaped shape can reduce (undesired) reflections of the light source radiation 11 from the light source 10 at one or more reactor walls 210. In embodiments, one or more of the wall cavities 220 may have at least partially a spherical cap shape, and / or one or more of the wall cavities 220 may have a cross-sectional shape that at least partially conforms to a Gaussian shape. In embodiments, each wall cavity 220 may define a reactor section 230 surrounding the wall cavity 220, wherein adjacent reactor sections 230 are fluidly connected via an inter-reactor section channel 231. Therefore, each wall cavity 220 may include a (corresponding) light source 10, which is configured to provide light source radiation 11 to the fluid 5 in the (corresponding) reactor section 230.

[0142] In one embodiment, the photoreactor assembly 1000 may further include a control system 300. The control system 300 may be configured to control the photoreactor assembly 1000, particularly the light source device 1010. In another embodiment, the control system 300 may be configured to control one or more of the spectral power distribution and intensity of the light source radiation 11 along one or more dimensions of the reactor 200, particularly wherein one or more dimensions of the reactor 200 are selected from the group consisting of height, length, width, and (circular equivalent) diameter.

[0143] Figures 1B-1C A further cross-section of an embodiment of the photoreactor assembly 1000 is schematically depicted. In the depicted embodiment, at least a portion of the reactor 200 is defined by two parallel reactor walls 210 that provide the reactor volume.

[0144] Figure 1C An embodiment in which the photoreactor assembly 1000 also includes a reflector element 400 is schematically depicted. The reflector element 400 may be configured to reflect the light source radiation 11. Thus, in an embodiment, the light-emitting surface 12 of one or more of the light sources 10 may be disposed between at least one of the reactor walls 210 and the reflector element 400.

[0145] In the depicted embodiment, the reactor wall 210 may be configured to be sandwiched between the reflector elements 400.

[0146] Specifically, two parallel reactor walls 210 can define a reactor chamber 250 configured to contain reactor fluid. Therefore, reactor 200 can include a reactor chamber 250 configured to contain reactor fluid 5. The reactor chamber 250 can, in particular, have a reactor volume. In the depicted cross-section, due to the presence of the wall cavity 220, the reactor chamber 250 can have a wavy pattern along the flow direction of the reactor fluid 5. Therefore, the wall cavity 220 can penetrate into the reactor chamber 250, and especially into the reactor volume.

[0147] In a specific embodiment, two parallel reactor walls 210 may define a wall cavity 220 and may be configured to be in a radiation receiving relationship with a plurality of light sources 10; in particular, the reactor walls 210 are transmissive to the light source radiation 11; and in particular, one or more of the light sources 10 are at least partially disposed in the wall cavity 220 of each reactor wall 210, and in particular, the light-emitting surface 12 is located within the wall cavity 220 and the reactor walls 210 at least partially surround the light-emitting surface 12.

[0148] In the depicted embodiment, the reactor wall 210 has a corrugated shape at least partially defined by corrugated portions 225. In particular, the corrugated portions 225 may include wall cavities 220.

[0149] The corrugated section 225 can increase the turbulence of the reactor fluid 5 in the reactor chamber 250, which can "refresh" the reactor fluid 5 exposed to the light source radiation 11.

[0150] In particular, in an embodiment, the reactor chamber 250 (in particular the reactor volume) may accommodate a flow-influencing element 245, wherein the flow-influencing element 245 is configured to increase turbulence, and wherein the flow-influencing element 245 is disposed within the reactor, between adjacent wall cavities 220.

[0151] The flow-influencing element 245 can also be configured to influence (especially slow down) the flow of the reactor fluid 5.

[0152] Although the arrangement of the light source 10 in the dome-shaped cavity 220 can reduce Fresnel reflection (which can reduce heat generation (see above)), it can still be beneficial to control the temperature of the reactor fluid 5 and / or the light source 10.

[0153] Therefore, in an embodiment, the reactor chamber 250 (in particular the reactor volume) can be configured to be traversed by one or more temperature control channels 7.

[0154] This configuration can provide additional benefits, namely that the temperature control channel 7 can be used as a flow modification element 245, and can in particular provide turbulence for the reactor fluid 5 in the reactor chamber 250.

[0155] Figure 1D Another embodiment of the photoreactor assembly 1000 is schematically depicted. In the depicted embodiment, the reactor 200 includes a reactor wall 210 having a wall cavity 220 for accommodating the light source 10, and a second reactor wall 210 including a thermally conductive material 30. In the depicted embodiment, a temperature control channel 7 is (substantially) disposed in the second reactor wall 210, and the temperature control channel 7 is configured parallel to the reactor chamber 250, i.e., the temperature control channel 7 is arranged along the reactor chamber 250, particularly along the reactor channel.

[0156] In another embodiment, reactor 200 may include a plurality of temperature control channels 7, particularly wherein at least a portion of the temperature control channels 7 is arranged laterally in reactor chamber 250, or particularly wherein at least a portion of the temperature control channels 7 is arranged parallel to reactor chamber 250.

[0157] Figures 1A-1D An embodiment of a method for treating fluid 5 with light source radiation 11 is also schematically depicted. The method may include: providing fluid 5 to be treated with light source radiation 11 in reactor 200 of photoreactor assembly 1000, particularly in reactor chamber 250; and irradiating fluid 5 with light source radiation 11.

[0158] In an embodiment, the method may include: irradiating the fluid 5 with a light source 11 while conveying the fluid 5 through a reactor 200.

[0159] In another embodiment, the method may include controlling one or more of the spectral power distribution and intensity of the light source radiation 11 along one or more dimensions of the reactor 200, particularly wherein one or more dimensions of the reactor 200 are selected from the group consisting of height, length, width and diameter.

[0160] Figure 2A A top view of a photoreactor assembly 1000 is schematically depicted. In the depicted embodiment, the photoreactor assembly 1000 includes a reactor wall 210 defining three reactor chambers 250, wherein each reactor chamber 250 includes a plurality of reactor segments 230 and inter-segment channels 231. Specifically, in the described embodiment, the size of the inter-segment channels 231 can be selected such that the flow velocity (in m / s) of the fluid 5 in the inter-segment channels 231 is higher than the flow velocity of the fluid 5 in the reactor segments 230.

[0161] Figure 2A A top view of a photoreactor assembly 1000 is also schematically depicted, which includes a single reactor chamber 250 divided into three (main) channels. In such an embodiment, the inter-reactor segment channels 231 can be fluidly coupled in particular and can be arranged in a straight line in particular (i.e., the middle channel can be shifted to the left to be vertically aligned with the inter-reactor segment channels 231).

[0162] Therefore, in one embodiment, the reactor chamber 250 may include a plurality of parallel-arranged pipes, each pipe including a plurality of reactor sections 230 and inter-reactor section channels 231, wherein at least two inter-reactor section channels 231 of different pipes are in (direct) fluid contact. In another embodiment, at least two adjacently arranged pipes may be aligned with respect to their reactor sections 230 and inter-reactor section channels 231.

[0163] In one embodiment, the inter-reactor section channel 231 can vary, particularly in length, width, and height. Therefore, the flow rate between adjacent reactor sections 230 can be adjusted. In another embodiment, the inter-reactor section channel 231 can have, in particular, (substantially) the same length, width, and height.

[0164] Figure 2BAn embodiment in which two opposing reactor walls 210 have wall cavities 220 arranged in parallel is schematically depicted. Specifically, two light sources 10 arranged in the opposing wall cavities 220 can share their optical axis O. In such a configuration, the reactor chamber 250 can have a (relatively) narrow section (along the optical axis O) arranged between the opposing light sources 10, and can have a (relatively) wide section arranged along the flow path between the light sources 10. Specifically, in the embodiment, the parallel reactor walls can be separated by a first distance d1 in the narrow section and by a second distance d2 in the wide section. In the embodiment, d2 can be selected from the range of 0.1 mm to 10 mm, such as from the range of 0.2 mm to 5 mm, especially from the range of 0.5 mm to 5 mm, and especially wherein d1 / d2 is selected from the range of 0.1 to 0.95, such as from the range of 0.2 to 0.9, especially from the range of 0.5 to 0.9.

[0165] Figures 3A-3B An embodiment of a photoreactor assembly 1000 is schematically depicted, wherein the wall cavity 220 is configured as a 2D array 1220.

[0166] Figure 3A A schematic cross-sectional view of the first reactor wall 210 is depicted, wherein the wall cavities 220 are configured as a square (regular) 2D array 1220, wherein each square comprises a wall cavity 220. In particular, the wall cavities 220 may have a maximum circular equivalent diameter D, wherein the light source 10 has a pitch p, where 1 ≤ p / D ≤ 2.

[0167] In an embodiment, the first reactor wall 210 may be arranged parallel to the second reactor wall 210 (not depicted), wherein the second reactor wall also includes wall cavities 220, specifically, these wall cavities 220 are also configured according to a square (regular) 2D array. In particular, in the depicted embodiment, the square 2D arrays of the first and second reactor walls 210 are displaced relative to each other, specifically such that the centers of the array of reactor walls 210 overlap the nodes of the array of second reactor walls 210. For visualization purposes, the two wall cavities 220 of the second wall are depicted as dashed circles.

[0168] Therefore, in an embodiment, two or more wall cavities 220 in the first reactor wall of two parallel reactor walls 210 may (substantially) define wall cavities 220 in the second reactor wall of the two parallel reactor walls 210. In the depicted embodiment, a set of four (2×2) wall cavities 220 in the first reactor wall of the two parallel reactor walls 210 defines wall cavities 220 arranged between them in the second reactor wall of the two parallel reactor walls 210.

[0169] Figure 3B A reactor 200 having a cylindrical shape is schematically depicted, particularly wherein the reactor wall 210 has a cylindrical shape. The depicted reactor wall 210 defines a wall cavity 220 according to a (regular) 2D array of (regular) hexagons, wherein each hexagon includes a wall cavity 220.

[0170] The term "plural" refers to two or more. Furthermore, the terms "a plurality of" and "a number of" are used interchangeably.

[0171] The terms “substantially” or “basically” and similar terms used herein will be understood by those skilled in the art. The term “substantially” or “basically” may also include embodiments with “all,” “completely,” “all,” etc. Therefore, in embodiments, the adjective “substantially” or “basically” may also be removed. Where applicable, the term “substantially” or “basically” may also refer to 90% or higher, such as 95% or higher, especially 99% or higher, even more especially 99.5% or higher, including 100%. Furthermore, the terms “about” and “approximately” may also refer to 90% or higher, such as 95% or higher, especially 99% or higher, even more especially 99.5% or higher, including 100%. For numerical values, it should be understood that the terms “substantially,” “basically,” “about,” and “approximately” may also refer to a range of 90%-110%, such as 95%-105%, especially 99%-101%, of the values ​​they refer to.

[0172] The term "comprising" also includes embodiments thereof, which are defined as "consisting of".

[0173] The term “and / or” specifically refers to one or more of the items mentioned before and after “and / or”. For example, the phrase “item 1 and / or item 2” and similar phrases may refer to one or more of items 1 and 2. The term “comprising” in one embodiment may mean “consisting of”, but in another embodiment it may also mean “containing at least the defined species and optional one or more other species”.

[0174] Furthermore, the terms first, second, third, etc., used in the specification and claims are used to distinguish similar elements and are not necessarily used to describe order or chronological sequence. It should be understood that such terms are interchangeable where appropriate, and the embodiments of the invention described herein can operate in orders other than those described or illustrated herein.

[0175] Among other things, the devices, apparatuses, or systems described herein may be used during operation. As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the invention is not limited to the method of operation, or the devices, apparatuses, or systems in operation.

[0176] The term "another embodiment" and similar terms may refer to an embodiment that includes features of the previously discussed embodiments, but may also refer to alternative embodiments.

[0177] It should be noted that the above embodiments are illustrative and not limiting of the invention, and those skilled in the art will be able to devise many alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

[0178] In the claims, any reference numerals placed in parentheses should not be construed as limiting the claims.

[0179] The use of the verb "comprise" and its variations does not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those described in the claims. Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the specification and claims, the terms "comprise," "comprising," "include," "including," "contain," "containing," etc., shall be interpreted in a inclusive sense, contrary to the meaning of exclusivity or exhaustiveness; that is, in the sense of "including but not limited to."

[0180] The article "one" or "a" preceding an element does not preclude the existence of multiple such elements.

[0181] This invention can be implemented by means of hardware comprising several different elements and by means of a suitably programmed computer. In an apparatus claim, device claim, or system claim that enumerates several means, several of these means may be embodied by the same hardware. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that combinations of these measures cannot be advantageously used.

[0182] The present invention also provides a control system that can control a device, apparatus, or system, or perform the methods or processes described herein. Furthermore, the present invention also provides a computer program product that, when functionally coupled to or executed on a computer included in a device, apparatus, or system, controls one or more controllable elements of such a device, apparatus, or system.

[0183] The present invention is also applicable to devices, apparatuses, or systems that include one or more of the characterizing features described in the specification and / or shown in the drawings. The present invention also relates to methods or processes that include one or more of the characterizing features described in the specification and / or shown in the drawings. Furthermore, if a method or an embodiment of that method is described for performance in a device, apparatus, or system, it will be understood that the device, apparatus, or system is adapted or configured to perform that method or an embodiment of that method.

[0184] The various aspects discussed in this patent can be combined to provide additional advantages. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that embodiments can be combined, and more than two embodiments can be combined. Additionally, some features of the design can form the basis of one or more divisional applications.

Claims

1. A photoreactor assembly (1000), comprising a reactor (200) and a light source device (1010); wherein: - The light source device (1010) includes a plurality of light sources (10) configured to generate light source radiation (11) selected from one or more of UV radiation, visible radiation and IR radiation, wherein each light source (10) includes a light-emitting surface (12). - The reactor (200) is configured to contain fluid (5) to be treated by the light source radiation (11), wherein the reactor (200) includes one or more reactor walls (210). - At least one of the one or more reactor walls (210): (a) defines a wall cavity (220), (b) is configured to be in a radiation receiving relationship with the plurality of light sources (10), and (c) is transmissive to radiation (11) from the light sources; - One or more of the light sources (10) are at least partially disposed in the wall cavity (220), whereby the light-emitting surface (12) is within the wall cavity (220), and at least one of the reactor walls (210) at least partially surrounds the light-emitting surface (12). -The plurality of light sources (10) include solid-state light sources; -The cavity (220) described herein has a dome-shaped shape; and -One or more of the following apply: (i) The reactor includes a reactor chamber having a reactor volume that accommodates a flow-influencing element (245), wherein the flow-influencing element (245) is configured to increase turbulence, and wherein the flow-influencing element (245) is disposed within the reactor, between adjacent wall cavities (220). (ii) Each wall cavity (220) defines a reactor section (230) surrounding the wall cavity (220), wherein adjacent reactor sections (230) are fluidly connected via an inter-reactor section channel (231), and wherein the size of the inter-reactor section channel (231) is selected such that the flow velocity of the fluid (5) in the inter-reactor section channel (231) is higher than the flow velocity of the fluid (5) in the reactor section (230); and - wherein the reactor chamber has a flow path that meanders in a first dimension due to the wall cavity.

2. The photoreactor assembly (1000) according to claim 1, wherein one or more cavities in the wall cavity (220) contain a single light source (10).

3. The photoreactor assembly (1000) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein one or more of the wall cavities (220) have at least partially the shape of a spherical cap.

4. The photoreactor assembly (1000) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein a plurality of the wall cavities (220) at least partially accommodate the light source (10), wherein the wall cavities (220) are configured as a 2D array (1220), wherein the wall cavities (220) have a maximum circular equivalent diameter D, wherein the light source (10) has a pitch p, wherein 1 ≤ p / D ≤ 2.

5. The photoreactor assembly (1000) according to claim 1 or 2 further includes a reflector element (400), wherein the reflector element (400) is configured to reflect light source radiation (11), and wherein the light-emitting surface (12) of one or more light sources in the light source (10) is disposed between at least one reactor wall in one or more reactor walls (210) and the reflector element (400).

6. The photoreactor assembly (1000) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein at least a portion of the reactor (200) is defined by two parallel reactor walls (210) providing the reactor volume.

7. The photoreactor assembly (1000) according to claim 6, wherein the wall cavity (220) extends into the reactor volume.

8. The photoreactor assembly (1000) according to claim 6, wherein the reactor wall (210) has a corrugated shape defined at least partially by a corrugated portion (225), wherein the corrugated portion (225) includes the wall cavity (220).

9. The photoreactor assembly (1000) of claim 6, wherein the two parallel reactor walls (210) define a wall cavity (220) and are configured to be in a radiation receiving relationship with the plurality of light sources (10); wherein the reactor wall (210) is transmissive to radiation (11) from the light sources; wherein one or more of the light sources (10) are at least partially disposed in the wall cavity (220) of each reactor wall in the reactor wall (210), whereby the light-emitting surface (12) is within the wall cavity (220) and the reactor wall (210) at least partially surrounds the light-emitting surface (12).

10. The photoreactor assembly (1000) of claim 9, wherein the reactor wall (210) is configured to be sandwiched between the reflector elements (400) as defined in claim 5.

11. The photoreactor assembly (1000) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the plurality of light sources (10) comprises one or more of on-board chip light sources (COB), light-emitting diodes (LEDs), laser diodes, and superluminescent diodes, and wherein one or more of the spectral power distribution of the light source radiation (11) and the intensity of the light source radiation (11) are controllable, wherein the photoreactor assembly (1000) further comprises a control system (300), wherein the control system (300) is configured to control one or more of the spectral power distribution and the intensity of the light source radiation (11) along one or more dimensions of the reactor (200), wherein the one or more dimensions of the reactor (200) are selected from the group consisting of height, length, width, and diameter.

12. A method for treating a fluid (5) by irradiation (11) with a light source, wherein the method comprises: - The fluid (5) to be treated with the light source radiation (11) is provided in the reactor (200) of the photoreactor assembly (1000) according to claim 1 or 2; and - Irradiate the fluid (5) with the light source radiation (11).

13. The method of claim 12, comprising: While irradiating the fluid (5) with the light source radiation (11), the fluid (5) is conveyed through the reactor (200), and one or more of the spectral power distribution and intensity of the light source radiation (11) along one or more dimensions of the reactor (200) are controlled, wherein the one or more dimensions of the reactor (200) are selected from the group consisting of height, length, width and diameter.

Images