Electrolytic water production device and electrolytic water production method

Abstract

The present invention provides an electrolyzed water manufacturing apparatus and a method for manufacturing electrolyzed water, which can sufficiently suppress a decrease in pH of the obtained electrolyzed water. The electrolyzed water manufacturing apparatus includes a diaphragmless electrolytic cell that electrolyzes a chemical substance aqueous solution, a liquid feeding section that feeds the chemical substance aqueous solution to the diaphragmless electrolytic cell, a separation section that separates a component from a discharge discharged from the diaphragmless electrolytic cell, and a first dilution section that adds dilution water to the component to become electrolyzed water. The separation section has a space that accommodates the discharge, and in the space, the discharge is separated into a residual liquid containing an unreacted chemical substance and the component containing a gas generated by electrolysis and primary electrolyzed water, which is generated at a position on an upper side than a liquid surface of the residual liquid. With the electrolyzed water manufacturing apparatus, the discharge is separated into the residual liquid and the component after electrolysis of the chemical substance aqueous solution and is discharged, and the dilution water is added to the component to obtain the electrolyzed water.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of application number 202110428469.5, filed on April 21, 2021, entitled "Electrolysis Water Manufacturing Apparatus and Method for Manufacturing Electrolyzed Water". Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to an apparatus for producing electrolyzed water and a method for producing electrolyzed water. Background Technology

[0003] Electrolyzed water, obtained by electrolyzing chemical solutions containing chloride ions, has a bactericidal effect and is therefore widely used in various sterilization and disinfection processes. For example, by electrolyzing hydrochloric acid aqueous solution or a solution obtained by adding sodium chloride aqueous solution to hydrochloric acid aqueous solution using a diaphragm-free electrolyzer, slightly acidic electrolyzed water (slightly acidic hypochlorous acid water) with bactericidal effect can be obtained. Slightly acidic electrolyzed water was recognized as a food additive in 2002 (effective chlorine concentration: 10ppm~30ppm, pH=5~6.5), and in 2012, the effective chlorine concentration was expanded to 10ppm~80ppm (pH=5~6.5).

[0004] Conventional water electrolysis apparatuses suffer from the problem of hydrochloric acid contamination causing pH deviations in the resulting electrolyzed water. Patent Document 1 discloses an water electrolysis apparatus in which a hydrochloric acid removal section, allowing only gas to pass through but not hydrochloric acid, is located downstream of the electrolysis cell in order to suppress the contamination of hydrochloric acid and thus suppress pH deviations in the electrolyzed water.

[0005] Existing technical documents

[0006] Patent documents

[0007] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-226887 Summary of the Invention

[0008] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0009] However, even with the water electrolysis device of Patent Document 1, it is not possible to sufficiently suppress the decrease in pH of the electrolyzed water during long-term operation.

[0010] The purpose of this invention is to provide an apparatus and a method for producing electrolyzed water that can effectively suppress the decrease in pH of the resulting electrolyzed water.

[0011] Solution for solving the problem

[0012] The present invention has the following technical solution.

[0013] [1] An electrolyzed water manufacturing apparatus for electrolyzing an aqueous solution of a chemical substance containing a chemical substance to produce electrolyzed water containing an electrolysis product of the chemical substance, wherein the electrolyzed water manufacturing apparatus comprises: a diaphragmless electrolyzer for electrolyzing the aqueous solution of the chemical substance; a liquid delivery unit for supplying the aqueous solution of the chemical substance to the diaphragmless electrolyzer; a separation unit for separating gas and primary electrolyzed water from the discharge from the diaphragmless electrolyzer; and a first dilution unit for adding dilution water to the primary electrolyzed water to form electrolyzed water, wherein the separation unit has a space for containing the discharge, wherein the discharge is separated into a residual liquid containing unreacted chemical substance and a component containing gas generated by electrolysis and the primary electrolyzed water generated at a position above the liquid surface of the residual liquid.

[0014] [2] The electrolyzed water manufacturing apparatus according to [1] further includes: a first suction unit for suctioning the primary electrolyzed water; and a second suction unit for suctioning the residual liquid.

[0015] [3] The electrolyzed water manufacturing apparatus according to [1] or [2] further includes a second dilution unit that adds dilution water to the residual liquid for dilution.

[0016] [4] The electrolyzed water manufacturing apparatus according to [2] or [3] further includes a piping that allows at least a portion of the residual liquid to merge with the electrolyzed water at a position downstream of the confluence between the primary electrolyzed water and the dilution water, and the piping is provided with a flow adjustment section that adjusts the flow rate in the piping and causes it to merge with the electrolyzed water.

[0017] [5] An electrolyzed water manufacturing apparatus according to any one of [1] to [4], wherein the space is configured to be in contact with either the upper surface and the side surface of the diaphragmless electrolyzer or both the upper surface and the side surface.

[0018] [6] A method for manufacturing electrolyzed water, wherein the method comprises the following steps: an electrolysis step in which an aqueous solution of a chemical substance containing a chemical substance is electrolyzed to obtain primary electrolyzed water; a separation step in which an effluent discharged from the electrolysis step is separated into a residual liquid containing unreacted chemical substances and a component containing gas generated by electrolysis and the primary electrolyzed water generated at a position above the liquid surface of the residual liquid; and a dilution and dissolution step in which dilution water is added to the gas separated by the separation step and the primary electrolyzed water to form electrolyzed water.

[0019] [7] An electrolyzed water manufacturing apparatus for electrolyzing an aqueous solution of a chemical substance containing a chemical substance to produce electrolyzed water containing an electrolysis product of the chemical substance, wherein the electrolyzed water manufacturing apparatus comprises: a diaphragmless electrolyzer for electrolyzing the aqueous solution of the chemical substance; a liquid delivery unit for supplying the aqueous solution of the chemical substance to the diaphragmless electrolyzer; a separation unit for separating gas from the discharge from the discharge of the diaphragmless electrolyzer; a first dilution unit for adding dilution water to the gas to form electrolyzed water; and a second suction unit for suctioning the residual liquid after the gas is separated from the discharge, the separation unit having a space for containing the discharge, in which the discharge is separated into a residual liquid containing unreacted chemical substance and a gas generated by electrolysis at a position above the liquid surface of the residual liquid.

[0020] The effects of the invention

[0021] According to the present invention, the object is to provide an electrolyzed water manufacturing apparatus and a method for manufacturing electrolyzed water that can sufficiently suppress the decrease in pH of the resulting electrolyzed water. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1 This is a schematic structural diagram showing the water electrolysis manufacturing apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 2 It means Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the diaphragmless electrolyzer and separation section of an electrolyzed water production apparatus.

[0024] Figure 3 This is a schematic structural diagram showing the water electrolysis manufacturing apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 4 This is a schematic structural diagram showing the water electrolysis manufacturing apparatus according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 5 This is a schematic structural diagram showing the water electrolysis manufacturing apparatus according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 6 This is a schematic structural diagram illustrating the water electrolysis manufacturing apparatus according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of the diaphragmless electrolyzer and separation section of an electrolyzed water production apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 8 This is a schematic structural diagram of an electrolytic water production apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0031] 100, 100A~100E, Electrolytic water production apparatus; 10, Liquid delivery section; 12, Diaphragmless electrolytic cell; 12a, Upper surface; 12b, Side surface; 14, Separation section; 16, First dilution section; 18, Second dilution section; 20, First suction section; 22, Second suction section; 30, Electrolytic cell body; 32, Anode; 34, Cathode; 36, 36A, Shell; 38, Space; 40, Chemical solution supply section; 42, First discharge section; 44, First discharge pipe; 46, Second discharge section; 48, Second discharge pipe; 56, Flow rate adjustment section; 58, Residual liquid collection component; 62, Flow rate adjustment section. Detailed Implementation

[0032] Hereinafter, an example of an embodiment of the electrolyzed water manufacturing apparatus and method of the present invention will be shown and described based on the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, the dimensions, etc., of the drawings illustrated in the following description are merely examples, and the present invention is not necessarily limited thereto; appropriate modifications and implementations can be made without altering its spirit.

[0033] [First Implementation]

[0034] (Electrolysis water production equipment)

[0035] Figure 1 This is a schematic structural diagram showing the electrolyzed water manufacturing apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment. The electrolyzed water manufacturing apparatus 100 is an apparatus for continuously producing electrolyzed water containing electrolysis products of chemical substances by electrolyzing an aqueous solution of chemical substances containing chemical substances.

[0036] The water electrolysis manufacturing apparatus 100 includes a liquid delivery unit 10, a diaphragmless electrolyzer 12, a separation unit 14, a first dilution unit 16, a second dilution unit 18, a first suction unit 20, and a second suction unit 22.

[0037] The liquid delivery unit 10 supplies an aqueous solution of chemical substance A to the diaphragmless electrolyzer 12. The liquid delivery unit 10 includes: a chemical solution storage unit 24 for storing the aqueous solution of chemical substance A; a piping 26 connecting the chemical solution storage unit 24 to the lower part of the diaphragmless electrolyzer 12; and a pump 28 disposed on the piping 26. By operating the pump 28, the aqueous solution of chemical substance A stored in the chemical solution storage unit 24 is supplied to the diaphragmless electrolyzer 12.

[0038] The diaphragmless electrolyzer 12 is an electrolyzer for electrolyzing an aqueous solution A of a chemical substance supplied from the liquid delivery unit 10. For example... Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, the diaphragmless electrolytic cell 12 includes an electrolytic cell body 30, and plate-shaped anode 32 and cathode 34 disposed inside the electrolytic cell body 30. An opening 31 is formed in the upper part of the electrolytic cell body 30.

[0039] The anode 32 and cathode 34 are arranged facing each other. Wires (not shown) are connected to the anode 32 and cathode 34 respectively.

[0040] The structure and energizing method of the electrodes at the diaphragmless electrolyzer 12 are not particularly limited. For example, a multi-electrode electrode can be used, which has a structure insulated from and overlapped with multiple electrodes at certain intervals. Between the electrode plate connected to the anode of the same power source and the electrode plate connected to the cathode of the same power source, there is at least one electrode (intermediate electrode) that is not connected to either electrode. The number of electrode plates is not particularly limited; for example, it can be more than two and less than 25.

[0041] In this embodiment, the electrolytic cell body 30 is disposed within the housing 36. In this example, at least a portion of the sidewall 30a of the electrolytic cell body 30 is separated from the sidewall 36a of the housing 36 on the lower side inside the housing 36. Inside the housing 36, a series of spaces 38 are formed connecting the outer side of the sidewall 30a of the electrolytic cell body 30 to the upper side of the electrolytic cell body 30.

[0042] On the lower part of the side wall 36b of the housing 36 on the side where the electrolytic cell body 30 is located, there is a chemical solution supply section 40 that communicates with the lower side of the anode 32 and the lower side of the cathode 34 inside the electrolytic cell body 30. A pipe 26 of the liquid delivery section 10 is connected to the chemical solution supply section 40.

[0043] On the side wall 36b of the housing 36 on the side where the electrolytic cell body 30 is located, above the electrolytic cell body 30, a first discharge section 42 communicating with the space 38 is provided. A first discharge pipe 44 is connected to the first discharge section 42.

[0044] The lower part of the sidewall 36a of the housing 36, opposite to the side where the electrolytic cell body 30 is located, is provided with a second discharge section 46 that communicates with the space 38. A second discharge pipe 48 is connected to the second discharge section 46.

[0045] The separation section 14 separates gas and primary electrolyzed water from the effluent B that has been electrolyzed and discharged from the diaphragmless electrolyzer 12. In this embodiment, the space 38 inside the housing 36 becomes the space in the separation section 14 that contains the effluent B.

[0046] The space 38 of the separation section 14 is provided in contact with both the upper surface 12a and the side surface 12b of the diaphragmless electrolyzer 12. However, the upper surface 12a of the diaphragmless electrolyzer 12 is the upper surface of the electrolyzer body 30. The side surface 12b of the diaphragmless electrolyzer 12 is the outer surface of the side wall 30a of the electrolyzer body 30, which is separate from the side wall 36a of the shell 36. Thus, in this embodiment, the diaphragmless electrolyzer 12 and the separation section 14 are integrated into an electrolytic separation unit 13. Here, "the diaphragmless electrolyzer and the separation section are integrated" means that the diaphragmless electrolyzer and the separation section are not connected by piping or the like, and at least a portion of the outer surface of the diaphragmless electrolyzer faces the space of the separation section and serves as part of the boundary of that space.

[0047] The chemical solution A, supplied from the liquid delivery unit 10, is fed from the chemical solution supply unit 40 to the lower side of the anode 32 and the lower side of the cathode 34 within the diaphragmless electrolyzer 12, and is electrolyzed while passing from bottom to top between the anode 32 and the cathode 34. The electrolyzed chemical solution A, as discharge B, is discharged from the opening 31 of the upper surface 12a of the diaphragmless electrolyzer 12 into the space 38 of the separation unit 14. Within the space 38 of the separation unit 14, discharge B is separated into a residual liquid C containing unreacted chemical substances and a component D, which is generated above the liquid surface of the residual liquid C and contains gas produced by electrolysis and primary electrolyzed water. Component D in the space 38 of the separation unit 14 is in a state where particulate primary electrolyzed water is dispersed in the gas produced by electrolysis. Component D is discharged from the first discharge unit 42 to the first discharge pipe 44. The residual liquid C is discharged from the second discharge unit 46 to the second discharge pipe 48.

[0048] In the water electrolysis manufacturing apparatus 100, component D in the effluent B discharged from the opening 31 of the upper surface 12a of the diaphragmless electrolyzer 12 does not pass through the residual liquid C in the space 38 of the separation section 14, but instead reaches a position above the liquid surface of the residual liquid C. Specifically, the opening 31 of the upper surface 12a of the diaphragmless electrolyzer 12, which serves as the supply section for supplying effluent B from the diaphragmless electrolyzer 12 to the separation section 14, is located above the liquid surface of the residual liquid C in the space 38 of the separation section 14. This prevents unelectrolyzed hydrochloric acid from mixing with component D, resulting in electrolyzed water F with a more stable pH. Furthermore, by preventing component D from passing through the residual liquid C, it is also possible to suppress the situation where highly soluble chlorine gas dissolves in the residual liquid C and is captured, thereby reducing the effective chlorine concentration of the electrolyzed water F.

[0049] The first dilution section 16 is used to add dilution water E to component D to form electrolyzed water F. The first dilution section 16 includes a pipe 50 for supplying dilution water E. A first discharge pipe 44 is connected to the middle section of the pipe 50 of the first dilution section 16, and the pipe 50 and the separation section 14 are connected via the first discharge pipe 44. Thus, the dilution water E flowing in the pipe 50 and component D flowing in the first discharge pipe 44 merge.

[0050] In this example, a first suction section 20 is provided at the connection between the pipe 50 of the first dilution section 16 and the first discharge pipe 44, that is, at the junction between component D and dilution water E. The first suction section 20 suctions component D, which contains gas and primary electrolyzed water, discharged from the space 38 of the separation section 14 to the first discharge pipe 44.

[0051] The first suction unit 20 can be any component capable of suctioning component D from the space 38 of the separation unit 14. Examples include an ejector, a throttling device, and a suction pump that uses dilution water E flowing in the piping 50 as the driving fluid. From the viewpoint of excellent economy and ease of device miniaturization, an ejector that uses dilution water E as the driving fluid is preferred as the first suction unit 20. If an ejector is used, not only can the kinetic energy of the dilution water E be effectively utilized, but the mixing of component D and dilution water E can also be effectively carried out within the ejector.

[0052] The shape of the injector is not particularly limited; for example, the shape of the injector described in Japanese Patent No. 4676185 can be used as an example.

[0053] The second dilution section 18 is used to dilute the residual liquid C with dilution water E to form a diluted residual liquid G. The second dilution section 18 includes a pipe 52 that branches off upstream of the junction of the specific component D and the dilution water E in the pipe 50, for supplying dilution water E. A second discharge pipe 48 is connected midway through the pipe 52 in the second dilution section 18, and the pipe 52 and the separation section 14 are connected via the second discharge pipe 48. Thus, the dilution water E flowing in the pipe 52 and the residual liquid C flowing in the second discharge pipe 48 merge.

[0054] In this example, a second suction section 22 is provided at the connection between the pipe 52 of the second dilution section 18 and the second discharge pipe 48, that is, at the junction between the residual liquid C and the dilution water E. The second suction section 22 suctions the residual liquid C discharged from the space 38 of the separation section 14 to the second discharge pipe 48.

[0055] The second suction unit 22 can be any component capable of suctioning residual liquid C from the space 38 of the separation unit 14. Examples include an ejector, a throttling device, and a suction pump that uses dilution water E flowing in the piping 52 as the driving fluid. From the viewpoint of excellent economy and ease of device miniaturization, an ejector that uses dilution water E as the driving fluid is preferred as the second suction unit 22. If an ejector is used, not only can the kinetic energy of the dilution water E be effectively utilized, but the residual liquid C and the dilution water E can also be effectively mixed within the ejector.

[0056] (Method for manufacturing electrolyzed water)

[0057] The following describes a method for manufacturing electrolyzed water using the electrolyzed water manufacturing apparatus 100 of this embodiment. The method for manufacturing electrolyzed water of this embodiment includes the following steps: electrolysis, separation, dilution and dissolution, and residual liquid dilution.

[0058] Electrolysis process: Electrolysis of an aqueous solution A containing chemical substances to obtain gas and primary electrolyzed water.

[0059] Separation process: Separates the effluent B from the electrolysis process into a residual liquid C containing unreacted chemical substances and a component D, which is produced at a position above the liquid surface of the residual liquid C and contains gases generated by electrolysis and water from the first electrolysis.

[0060] Dilution and dissolution process: Diluent E is added to the gas separated by the separation process and the primary electrolyzed water to form electrolyzed water F.

[0061] Residual liquid dilution process: Dilute the residual liquid C separated by the separation process by adding dilution water E.

[0062] In the electrolysis process, the pump 28 of the liquid delivery unit 10 is operated to transport the chemical solution A stored in the chemical solution storage unit 24 to the diaphragmless electrolytic cell 12. Electrolysis of the chemical solution A is performed as it passes from bottom to top between the anode 32 and cathode 34 within the diaphragmless electrolytic cell 12. The electrolyzed chemical solution A, as discharge B, is discharged from the opening 31 of the upper surface 12a of the diaphragmless electrolytic cell 12 into the space 38 of the separation unit 14. Discharge B is supplied from the opening 31 of the upper surface 12a of the diaphragmless electrolytic cell 12 to a position in the space 38 of the separation unit 14 above the liquid level of the residual liquid C.

[0063] As the aqueous solution A containing the chemical substance, water containing chloride ions can be used. Examples include aqueous hydrochloric acid solution and a solution obtained by adding aqueous sodium chloride solution to aqueous hydrochloric acid solution. From the viewpoint of preventing the formation of residues from the electrolysis of water, aqueous hydrochloric acid solution is preferred.

[0064] Examples of chemical substances include either hydrogen chloride or sodium chloride, or both hydrogen chloride and sodium chloride, with hydrogen chloride being preferred. One chemical substance may be used alone, or two or more may be used in combination.

[0065] In the separation process, within the space 38 of the separation section 14, the discharge B is separated into a residual liquid C containing unreacted chemical substances and a component D containing gas generated by electrolysis and water from the first electrolysis. Component D in the discharge B discharged from the opening 31 of the upper surface 12a of the diaphragmless electrolyzer 12 does not pass through the residual liquid C in the space 38 of the separation section 14, but reaches a position above the liquid surface of the residual liquid C.

[0066] For component D, the gas produced by electrolysis contains particulate water, which is a product of electrolysis containing chemical substances, and serves as primary electrolysis water. As the amount of particulate water containing chemical substances in the gas increases, it becomes mist-like. For example, if the aqueous solution of the chemical substance A is hydrochloric acid, component D contains hydrogen gas, chlorine gas, and particulate hypochlorous acid water, which is the primary electrolysis water.

[0067] Component D separated from effluent B is discharged from space 38 of separation section 14 via first discharge section 42 to first discharge pipe 44. For the water electrolysis manufacturing apparatus 100, by using first suction section 20 for suction, component D can be discharged from space 38 of separation section 14 more efficiently.

[0068] The residual liquid C separated from the discharge B is discharged from the space 38 of the separation section 14 via the second discharge section 46 to the second discharge pipe 48. For the water electrolysis manufacturing apparatus 100, by using the second suction section 22 for suction, the residual liquid C can be discharged from the space 38 of the separation section 14 more efficiently.

[0069] In the dilution and dissolution process, component D flowing in the first discharge pipe 44 and dilution water E flowing in the piping 50 are combined. Component D, separated in the separation process, is diluted and dissolved by adding dilution water E to obtain electrolyzed water F, which contains the electrolysis product of the chemical substance. For example, if the aqueous solution of the chemical substance A is hydrochloric acid, slightly acidic electrolyzed water (slightly acidic hypochlorous acid water) is obtained as electrolyzed water F. Electrolyzed water F can be used for various sterilization and disinfection applications, for example.

[0070] The dilution and dissolution of component D using dilution water E is carried out, for example, in a manner that meets the conditions for food additives, within a range of 10 ppm to 80 ppm of available chlorine and pH 5 to 6.5 in electrolyzed water F.

[0071] Examples of dilution water E include tap water, groundwater, underground stream water, desalinated water, distilled water, and purified water. One type of dilution water E can be used alone, or two or more can be used together. Furthermore, when electrolyzed water F is used as a food additive, dilution water E is potable water that meets tap water quality standards.

[0072] In the residual liquid dilution process, the residual liquid C flowing in the second discharge pipe 48 and the dilution water E flowing in the piping 52 are combined. The residual liquid C separated in the separation process is diluted with the dilution water E to obtain diluted residual liquid G. For example, if the chemical aqueous solution A is a hydrochloric acid aqueous solution, diluted residual liquid G containing unreacted hydrochloric acid is obtained. Diluted residual liquid G can be discarded or used for sterilization and disinfection depending on the available chlorine concentration and pH.

[0073] The degree to which residual liquid C is diluted with dilution water E can be appropriately adjusted according to the purpose.

[0074] As explained above, in this embodiment, in the space 38 of the separation section 14, the discharge B is separated into a residual liquid C containing unreacted chemical substances and a component D containing gas generated by electrolysis and water from primary electrolysis. In conventional devices such as Patent Document 1, unelectrolyzed hydrochloric acid is stored in the hydrochloric acid removal section or returned to the electrolyzer; therefore, during continuous operation, hydrochloric acid sometimes overflows and mixes with the electrolyzed water. However, by electrolyzing the aqueous solution A of the chemical substances using the diaphragmless electrolyzer 12, the residual liquid C and component D are separated in the space 38 of the separation section 14 and discharged, thereby enabling the unelectrolyzed hydrochloric acid to be discarded in a state separated from the electrolyzed water F. Thus, even during continuous operation, the unintended mixing of hydrochloric acid into the electrolyzed water F can be suppressed, and therefore, electrolyzed water F with sufficiently suppressed pH decrease can be continuously and stably produced.

[0075] [Second Implementation]

[0076] Figure 3 This is a schematic structural diagram showing the water electrolysis manufacturing apparatus 100A according to the second embodiment. The water electrolysis manufacturing apparatus 100A includes a liquid delivery unit 10, a diaphragmless electrolytic cell 12, a separation unit 14, a first dilution unit 16, a first suction unit 20, and a second suction unit 22. The water electrolysis manufacturing apparatus 100A does not include the second dilution unit 18; otherwise, it is the same configuration as the water electrolysis manufacturing apparatus 100. Figure 3 In and Figure 1 The same parts are labeled with the same reference numerals and the descriptions are omitted.

[0077] In the process of producing electrolyzed water using the electrolyzed water manufacturing apparatus 100A, the aqueous solution of chemical substances A is electrolyzed in a diaphragmless electrolyzer 12 during the electrolysis step, and the resulting product B is discharged into the space 38 of the separation section 14. Then, in the separation step, the product B is separated into residual liquid C and component D, and both residual liquid C and component D are discharged separately from the separation section 14. For the separated component D, dilution water E is added in the dilution and dissolution step to form electrolyzed water F. Since the electrolyzed water manufacturing apparatus 100A does not have a second dilution section 18, the residual liquid C is not diluted.

[0078] In the second embodiment, the chemical aqueous solution A is continuously electrolyzed using a diaphragmless electrolyzer 12, and the discharge B is separated into residual liquid C and component D by the separation section 14 and discharged, thereby enabling the continuous production of electrolyzed water F in which the pH reduction is sufficiently suppressed.

[0079] Therefore, the electrolyzed water manufacturing apparatus of the present invention may also omit the second dilution unit. The electrolyzed water manufacturing method of the present invention may also omit the residual liquid dilution step.

[0080] [Third Implementation]

[0081] Figure 4 This is a schematic structural diagram showing the water electrolysis manufacturing apparatus 100B according to the third embodiment. The water electrolysis manufacturing apparatus 100B includes a liquid delivery unit 10, a diaphragmless electrolyzer 12, a separation unit 14, a first dilution unit 16, a second dilution unit 18B, a first suction unit 20, and a second suction unit 22. The water electrolysis manufacturing apparatus 100B includes a second dilution unit 18B instead of a second dilution unit 18, otherwise it is the same configuration as the water electrolysis manufacturing apparatus 100. Figure 4 In and Figure 1 The same parts are labeled with the same reference numerals and the descriptions are omitted.

[0082] The second dilution section 18B includes: a pipe 52; a pipe 54, one end of which branches off from the pipe 52 upstream of the second suction section 22, and the other end of which is connected to the downstream side of the second suction section 22; and a flow adjustment section 56 provided in the pipe 54. With the second dilution section 18B, the residual liquid C can be diluted at a higher ratio with dilution water E compared to the first embodiment. Therefore, even if the residual liquid C discharged from the separation section 14 contains a large amount of hydrochloric acid and has a low pH, the pH can be easily adjusted, for example, to the range of 5 to 6.5 specified by the slightly acidic electrolyzed water used as a food additive.

[0083] As the flow adjustment unit 56, it can be any component capable of adjusting the flow rate of the dilution water E flowing in the piping 54. For example, a pressure reducing valve can be exemplified, which adjusts the downstream pressure accordingly based on the pH of the residual liquid C and the pH of the dilution residual liquid G, thereby adjusting the flow rate of the dilution water E flowing in the piping 54.

[0084] In the process of producing electrolyzed water using the electrolyzed water manufacturing apparatus 100B, in the electrolysis step, an aqueous solution of chemical substances A is electrolyzed in a diaphragmless electrolyzer 12, and the resulting product B is discharged into the space 38 of the separation section 14. Then, in the separation step, the product B is separated into residual liquid C and component D, and both residual liquid C and component D are discharged separately from the separation section 14. For the separated component D, dilution water E is added in a dilution and dissolution step to become electrolyzed water F. Furthermore, for the residual liquid C, it is diluted by adding dilution water E flowing in pipes 52 and 54 using the second dilution section 18B to become diluted residual liquid G.

[0085] In the third embodiment, the chemical aqueous solution A is continuously electrolyzed using a diaphragmless electrolyzer 12, and the effluent B is separated into residual liquid C and component D by the separation section 14 and discharged, thereby enabling the continuous production of electrolyzed water F in which pH reduction is sufficiently suppressed. Furthermore, in the third embodiment, since the pH of the diluted residual liquid G can be suppressed from decreasing, not only the electrolyzed water F can be used for sterilization and disinfection, but also the diluted residual liquid G can be used for sterilization and disinfection.

[0086] [Fourth Implementation]

[0087] Figure 5 This is a schematic structural diagram showing the water electrolysis manufacturing apparatus 100C according to the fourth embodiment. The water electrolysis manufacturing apparatus 100C includes a liquid delivery unit 10, a diaphragmless electrolyzer 12, a separation unit 14, a first dilution unit 16, a second dilution unit 18, a first suction unit 20, a second suction unit 22, and a residual liquid collection component 58. The water electrolysis manufacturing apparatus 100C also includes the residual liquid collection component 58; otherwise, it has the same configuration as the water electrolysis manufacturing apparatus 100. Figure 5 In and Figure 1 The same parts are labeled with the same reference numerals and the descriptions are omitted.

[0088] The residual liquid confluence component 58 includes: a piping 60 that allows at least a portion of the residual liquid C to be confluenced with the electrolyzed water F at a downstream position of the confluence between component D and dilution water E; and a flow adjustment unit 62 disposed in the piping 60 that adjusts the flow rate within the piping 60 and allows it to be confluenced with the electrolyzed water F.

[0089] In this example, one end of pipe 60 is connected to the downstream portion of pipe 52 located in the second suction section 22, and the other end of pipe 60 is connected to the downstream portion of pipe 50 located in the first suction section 20. Therefore, after the residual liquid C discharged from the separation section 14 is diluted by the diluent E, at least a portion of the diluted residual liquid G merges with the electrolyzed water F.

[0090] The residual liquid C separated by separation section 14 after electrolysis also contains electrolysis products of the chemical substance. For example, if the aqueous solution of the chemical substance A is an aqueous solution of hydrochloric acid, the residual liquid C discharged from separation section 14 also contains hypochlorous acid. Therefore, for example, by ensuring that the pH of the electrolyzed water F is within the range of 5 to 6.5, at least a portion of the residual liquid C can be combined with the electrolyzed water F, and the hypochlorous acid contained in the residual liquid C can also be used for sterilization and disinfection.

[0091] As the flow adjustment unit 62, it can be any component capable of adjusting the flow rate of the diluted residual liquid G (residual liquid C) flowing in the piping 60. For example, a pressure reducing valve can be exemplified, which adjusts the pressure on the electrolyzed water F side according to the pH of the electrolyzed water F and the pH of the diluted residual liquid G (residual liquid C), thereby adjusting the flow rate of the diluted residual liquid G (residual liquid C) flowing in the piping 60.

[0092] In the process of producing electrolyzed water using the electrolyzed water manufacturing apparatus 100C, an aqueous solution of chemical substances A is electrolyzed in a diaphragmless electrolyzer 12 during the electrolysis step, and the resulting product B is discharged into the space 38 of the separation section 14. Then, in the separation step, the product B is separated into residual liquid C and component D, and both residual liquid C and component D are discharged separately from the separation section 14. For the primary electrolyzed water contained in the separated component D, dilution water E is added in a dilution and dissolution step to form electrolyzed water F. Additionally, for the residual liquid C, dilution water E is added in a residual liquid dilution step to form diluted residual liquid G. Then, at least a portion of the diluted residual liquid G (residual liquid C) is combined with the electrolyzed water F.

[0093] In the fourth embodiment, the chemical aqueous solution A is continuously electrolyzed using a diaphragmless electrolyzer 12, and the discharge B is separated into residual liquid C and component D by the separation section 14 and discharged, thereby enabling the continuous production of electrolyzed water F with sufficiently suppressed pH reduction. Furthermore, in the fourth embodiment, at least a portion of the residual liquid C can be combined with the electrolyzed water F for sterilization. Adjusting the pressure on the first suction section 20 side and the second suction section 22 side facilitates the adjustment of their respective suction balances, which is advantageous in terms of ease of adjustment of the effective chlorine concentration and pH. Additionally, by mixing and diluting at least a portion of the residual liquid G with the electrolyzed water F without impairing the effects of the invention, hypochlorous acid in the diluted residual liquid G can be recovered, and the amount of residual liquid C discharged (waste) can be reduced.

[0094] [Fifth Implementation]

[0095] Figure 6 This is a schematic structural diagram showing the water electrolysis manufacturing apparatus 100D according to the fifth embodiment. The water electrolysis manufacturing apparatus 100D includes a liquid delivery unit 10, a diaphragmless electrolyzer 12, a separation unit 14, a first dilution unit 16, and a second dilution unit 18. The water electrolysis manufacturing apparatus 100D does not include the first suction unit 20 and the second suction unit 22; otherwise, it is the same configuration as the water electrolysis manufacturing apparatus 100. Figure 6 In and Figure 1 The same parts are labeled with the same reference numerals and the descriptions are omitted.

[0096] In this embodiment, since gas is generated during electrolysis using the diaphragmless electrolyzer 12, the pressure on the downstream first dilution section 16 and second dilution section 18 is lower than that on the diaphragmless electrolyzer 12 side, resulting in a pressure difference. Therefore, under the action of this pressure difference, even without the first suction section 20 and the second suction section 22, component D and residual liquid C can naturally flow downstream from the separation section 14.

[0097] In the fifth embodiment, the chemical aqueous solution A is continuously electrolyzed using a diaphragmless electrolyzer 12, and the discharge B is separated into residual liquid C and component D by the separation section 14 and discharged, thereby enabling the continuous production of electrolyzed water F in which the pH reduction is sufficiently suppressed.

[0098] Thus, the electrolyzed water production apparatus of the present invention may also exclude either the first suction section and the second suction section, or both of the first suction section and the second suction section.

[0099] The water electrolysis manufacturing apparatus of the present invention is not limited to a configuration where the space of the separation section is in contact with both the upper surface and the side surface of the diaphragmless electrolyzer. The space of the separation section may also be configured to be in contact with only either the upper surface or the side surface of the diaphragmless electrolyzer.

[0100] For example, such as Figure 7 As shown, the electrolytic separation unit 13A can also be as follows: at least a portion of the sidewall 30a of the electrolytic cell body 30 is separated from the sidewall 36a of the shell 36A, and a space 38 for the separation portion 14 is formed only inside the shell 36A at a position outside the sidewall 30a of the electrolytic cell body 30. In this example, the space 38 of the separation portion 14 is configured to only be in contact with the sidewall 12b of the diaphragmless electrolytic cell 12.

[0101] In this configuration, inside the casing 36A, a supply section 33 is provided on the upper part of the side wall 30a of the electrolytic cell body 30, which is separate from the side wall 36a of the casing 36A, for supplying the electrolyzed effluent B to the space 38 of the separation section 14. The supply section 33 is located in the space 38 of the separation section 14 above the liquid level of the residual liquid C. In addition, a first discharge section 42 for discharging component D is provided on the upper part of the casing 36A.

[0102] In the electrolyzed water production apparatus of the present invention, the separation section may also be set independently relative to the diaphragmless electrolyzer in such a way that the space of the separation section does not contact the upper surface and side surface of the diaphragmless electrolyzer.

[0103] For example, the electrolytic water production apparatus of the present invention can also be Figure 8 The illustrated water electrolysis manufacturing apparatus 100E is identical in form to the water electrolysis manufacturing apparatus 100, except for the structure described below. Figure 8 In and Figure 1 The same reference numerals are used for the same parts, and descriptions are omitted. For the water electrolysis manufacturing apparatus 100E, the diaphragmless electrolyzer 12 and the separation section 14 are independently provided, and the discharge section 41 of the diaphragmless electrolyzer 12 and the supply section 43 of the separation section 14 are connected by a pipe 45. The supply section 43, which supplies the effluent B from the diaphragmless electrolyzer 12 to the separation section 14, is located in the space 38 of the separation section 14 above the liquid level of the residual liquid C.

[0104] In the water electrolysis production apparatus 100E, the effluent B is transported from the diaphragmless electrolyzer 12 to the separation unit 14 via piping 45. When using the water electrolysis production apparatus 100E, the chemical aqueous solution A is continuously electrolyzed using the diaphragmless electrolyzer 12, and the effluent B is separated into residual liquid C and component D by the separation unit 14 and discharged, thereby enabling the continuous production of electrolyzed water F with sufficiently suppressed pH decrease. Furthermore, when the separated residual liquid is returned to the electrolyzer, there is a risk of overflow, causing hydrochloric acid to mix into the electrolyzed water and thus lowering its pH. However, in the water electrolysis production apparatus 100E, since the hydrochloric acid separated by the separation unit 14 is discarded as residual liquid C, the pH decrease of the electrolyzed water F can be sufficiently suppressed.

[0105] Furthermore, in the water electrolysis production apparatus 100E, component D in the effluent B discharged from the diaphragmless electrolyzer 12 does not pass through the residual liquid C in the space 38 of the separation section 14, but instead reaches a position above the liquid surface of the residual liquid C. This prevents unelectrolyzed hydrochloric acid from contaminating component D, resulting in electrolyzed water F with a more stable pH. Additionally, by preventing component D from passing through the residual liquid C, it is also possible to suppress the possibility that highly soluble chlorine gas dissolves in the residual liquid C and is captured, thereby reducing the effective chlorine concentration of the electrolyzed water F.

[0106] Furthermore, the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0107] The electrolyzed water manufacturing apparatus of the present invention can also be an apparatus in which only gas is separated from the discharge in the separation section. Specifically, it can also be an electrolyzed water manufacturing apparatus comprising a diaphragmless electrolyzer, a liquid delivery section, a separation section, a first dilution section, and a second suction section, wherein the discharge is separated into residual liquid and gas in the space of the separation section, and the residual liquid after the gas is separated from the discharge is suctioned by the second suction section.

[0108] As a method for separating only gas from the discharge in the separation section, examples include installing a gas permeable filter, a cyclone separator, etc.

[0109] Such an electrolytic water production device, which separates only the gaseous form from the discharge after electrolysis, can easily produce high-concentration hypochlorous acid water. For example, it can produce electrolytic water that can be used for various purposes such as cleaning floors, and for specific pest control materials (specific pesticides).

[0110] Furthermore, without departing from the spirit of the present invention, the constituent elements in the described embodiments can be appropriately replaced with known constituent elements, and the above-described variations can also be appropriately combined.

[0111] The present invention will be specifically described below using examples, but the present invention is not limited to the following description.

[0112] [Measurement of available chlorine concentration]

[0113] The effective chlorine concentration was measured using a chlorine concentration meter (manufactured by Shibata Scientific Co., Ltd., product name: Handy Water Quality Meter (Japanese: ハンディ水質計) AQ-102) according to the following steps. For the sample cell, 10 mL of the electrolyzed water sample was collected. Next, the sample cell was set on the sample cell holder for measurement and zero adjustment was performed. Then, the sample cell was taken out and the color-developing reagent (manufactured by Shibata Scientific Co., Ltd., product name: Powder Reagent Residual Chlorine High Concentration (amount for 100 times)) was put in and mixed. The sample cell was set on the sample cell holder for measurement and the concentration was measured.

[0114] [Measurement of pH]

[0115] The pH was measured using a pH meter (manufactured by Horiba, Ltd., product name: pH METER D-51).

[0116] [Example 1]

[0117] Using Figure 1 and Figure 2 the electrolyzed water production apparatus 100 illustrated produced electrolyzed water.

[0118] As the diaphragm-free electrolytic cell 12, a 12-chamber multi-pole diaphragm-free electrolytic cell was used. An aqueous hydrochloric acid solution of 9 mass% was used as the chemical substance aqueous solution A. The electrolysis conditions of the diaphragm-free electrolytic cell 12 were set to a voltage of 24 V and a current of 6 A. As the first suction part 20 and the second suction part 22, ejectors using dilution water E as the driving fluid were used. As the dilution liquid E, water with a pH of 7.56 was used. The flow rate of the electrolyzed water F was set to 1074 L / h, and the flow rate of the diluted residual liquid G was set to 146 L / h.

[0119] The effective chlorine concentration and pH of the obtained electrolyzed water F and diluted residual liquid G are shown in Table 1.

[0120] [Comparative Example 1]

[0121] An electrolyzed water production apparatus that does not include a separation part and dilutes the discharged material after electrolysis in a diaphragm-free electrolytic cell with a dilution liquid to become electrolyzed water was used. The flow rate of the electrolyzed water was set to 1074 L / h, and except for this, electrolyzed water was produced under the same conditions as in Example 1. The effective chlorine concentration and pH of the obtained electrolyzed water are shown in Table 1.

[0122] Table 1

[0123]

[0124] In Example 1, where the discharge B from the diaphragmless electrolyzer 12 after electrolysis is separated into residual liquid C and component D by the separation section 14 and discharged, the resulting electrolyzed water F has a higher pH than that of Comparative Example 1, effectively suppressing the pH decrease caused by the mixing of hydrochloric acid. Furthermore, in Example 1, the hydrochloric acid is discarded as residual liquid C, separated from the electrolyzed water F; therefore, even with long-term operation, the pH decrease of the electrolyzed water F due to overflow can be suppressed.

[0125] [Example 2]

[0126] use Figure 4 The illustrated water electrolysis manufacturing apparatus 100B produces electrolyzed water.

[0127] A 12-chamber multi-electrode diaphragm-free electrolyzer 12 was used. A 21% by mass hydrochloric acid aqueous solution was used as the chemical solution A. The electrolysis conditions of the diaphragm-free electrolyzer 12 were set to a voltage of 24V and a current of 6A. Ejectors using dilution water E as the driving fluid were used as the first suction unit 20 and the second suction unit 22. Water with a pH of 7.65 was used as the diluent E. The dilution ratio of the dilution using the diluent E flowing in the piping 54 was adjusted to undiluted, 2x dilution, and 3x dilution by adjusting the flow rate adjustment unit 56. The flow rates of the electrolyzed water F and the dilution residue G are shown in Table 2.

[0128] The effective chlorine concentrations and pH values ​​of the resulting electrolyzed water F and diluted residual solution G are shown in Table 2.

[0129] Table 2

[0130]

[0131] As shown in Table 2, the effective chlorine concentration and pH of the diluted residual solution G obtained by diluting the diluent E flowing in the piping 54 by two or three times are high enough that not only can the electrolyzed water F be used as slightly acidic electrolyzed water, but the diluted residual solution G can also be used as slightly acidic electrolyzed water.

Claims

1. An electrolyzed water manufacturing apparatus, comprising electrolyzing an aqueous solution containing a chemical substance to produce electrolyzed water containing the electrolysis product of the chemical substance, wherein, The water electrolysis manufacturing apparatus includes: A diaphragm-free electrolyzer for electrolyzing the aqueous solution of the chemical substance; The liquid delivery unit supplies the aqueous solution of the chemical substance to the diaphragmless electrolyzer. A separation section separates gas and primary electrolyzed water from the effluent discharged from the diaphragmless electrolyzer; and The first dilution section adds dilution water to the primary electrolyzed water to form electrolyzed water. The separation section has a space to accommodate the discharged material. Within the space, the effluent is separated into a residual liquid containing unreacted chemical substances, and a component generated above the surface of the residual liquid, comprising gas produced by electrolysis and water from the primary electrolysis. The water electrolysis manufacturing apparatus also includes a second dilution unit, which adds dilution water to the residual liquid to dilute it into a diluted residual liquid. The second dilution section includes a flow adjustment section. The flow adjustment unit adjusts the dilution ratio of the dilution water to make the diluted residue slightly acidic electrolyzed water. The water electrolysis manufacturing apparatus also includes a first discharge pipe for discharging the components and a second discharge pipe for discharging the residual liquid.

2. The water electrolysis manufacturing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The water electrolysis production device also includes: A first suction unit, used for suctioning the primary electrolyzed water; and The second suction section is used to suction the residual liquid.

3. The water electrolysis manufacturing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The space is configured to be connected to either the upper surface and the side surface of the diaphragmless electrolyzer, or both the upper surface and the side surface.

4. A method for manufacturing electrolyzed water, wherein, The method for manufacturing electrolyzed water includes the following steps: The electrolysis process involves electrolyzing an aqueous solution of a chemical substance to obtain electrolyzed water. A separation process that separates the effluent from the electrolysis process into a residual liquid containing unreacted chemical substances and a component containing gas generated by electrolysis and water from the first electrolysis, produced at a position above the surface of the residual liquid. The discharge process involves discharging the component using a first discharge pipe and discharging the residual liquid using a second discharge pipe. The dilution and dissolution process involves adding dilution water to the gas separated by the separation process and the primary electrolyzed water to form electrolyzed water. as well as The residual liquid dilution process involves adding dilution water to the residual liquid to dilute it, and adjusting the dilution ratio of the dilution water to make it slightly acidic electrolyzed water.

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