Diffuser-free nanobubble generator

Abstract

The nanobubble generator includes a conduit and an energy source. The conduit includes an outer surface, an inner surface, an interior cavity through which the liquid can flow, a liquid inlet, and a liquid outlet. The interior cavity is configured to create a reduced pressure zone between the liquid inlet and the liquid outlet. The nanobubble generator also includes an energy source. The energy source includes (a) a power source, a signal generator, and at least one electrical conductor configured to apply an oscillating magnetic field to the pipe, (b) a power source and a pair of electrical conductors configured to generate an arc between and apply an arc to the pipe, or (c) a combination of the above. The generator creates nanobubbles without an external gas source.

Description

[0001] Priority claim

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Application Serial No. 63 / 349,520, filed on June 6, 2022, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to the generation of nanobubbles in a liquid carrier. Background Art

[0004] Nanobubbles remain stable in liquid carriers for extended periods of time, allowing them to be transported without agglomerating in the liquid carrier. In addition, nanobubbles have an inherent charge due to their high internal pressure. These properties make nanobubbles useful in a variety of fields, including water treatment, plant growth, aquaculture, and sterilization. Summary of the invention

[0005] In a first aspect, a nanobubble generator is described, the nanobubble generator comprising: (a) a pipe and (b) an energy source. The pipe comprises an outer surface, an inner surface, an internal cavity, a liquid inlet, and a liquid outlet, and the liquid can flow through the internal cavity. The internal cavity is configured to create a reduced pressure zone between the liquid inlet and the liquid outlet. The energy source comprises a power supply, a signal generator, and at least one electrical conductor, the at least one electrical conductor configured to apply an oscillating magnetic field to the pipe. The generator creates nanobubbles without an external gas source.

[0006] In some embodiments, the electrical conductor is configured to apply an oscillating magnetic field to the reduced pressure zone. In some embodiments, the electrical conductor is configured to apply an oscillating magnetic field to a portion of a pipeline upstream of the reduced pressure zone, a portion of a pipeline downstream of the reduced pressure zone, or both. In some embodiments, the electrical conductor is positioned on the outer surface of the pipeline, and in other embodiments, the electrical conductor is positioned on the inner surface of the pipeline. The electrical conductor may include a magnetic coil, a stator, a wire, or a combination of the above. In a specific embodiment, the energy source includes at least one pair of magnetic coils (e.g., two, four, six, eight or more than ten magnetic coils), which are configured to generate an oscillating magnetic field that overlaps at the reduced pressure zone. In some embodiments, the magnetic coils are arranged so that the generated oscillating magnetic field converges at the pipeline (e.g., converges at the reduced pressure zone).

[0007] In a second aspect, a nanobubble generator is described, the nanobubble generator comprising: (a) a pipe and (b) an energy source. The pipe comprises an outer surface, an inner surface, an internal cavity, a liquid inlet and a liquid outlet, and the liquid can flow through the internal cavity. The internal cavity is configured to create a reduced pressure zone between the liquid inlet and the liquid outlet. The energy source comprises a power supply and a pair of electrical conductors, the pair of electrical conductors being configured to generate an arc between the two electrical conductors and apply the arc to the pipe. In some examples, the energy source further comprises a voltage amplifier. The generator creates nanobubbles without an external gas source.

[0008] In some embodiments of the second aspect, the electrical conductor is configured to apply an oscillating magnetic field to the reduced pressure zone. In some embodiments, the energy source is configured to apply an electric arc to a portion of the pipeline upstream of the reduced pressure zone, a portion of the pipeline downstream of the reduced pressure zone, or both. In some embodiments of the second aspect, the electrical conductor is a pipeline or is positioned on an outer surface of a pipeline, while in other embodiments, the electrical conductor is positioned on an inner surface of the pipeline.

[0009] In a third aspect, a nanobubble generator is described, the nanobubble generator comprising: (a) a pipe and (b) an energy source. The pipe comprises an outer surface, an inner surface, an internal cavity, a liquid inlet and a liquid outlet, and the liquid can flow through the internal cavity. The internal cavity is configured to create a reduced pressure zone between the liquid inlet and the liquid outlet. The nanobubble generator further comprises a first energy source and a second energy source. The first energy source comprises a power source, a signal generator, and at least one electrical conductor, the at least one electrical conductor configured to apply an oscillating magnetic field to the pipe. The second energy source comprises a power source and a pair of electrical conductors, the pair of electrical conductors configured to generate an arc between the two electrical conductors and apply the arc to the pipe. In some examples, the energy source further comprises a voltage amplifier. The generator creates nanobubbles without an external gas source.

[0010] In some embodiments of the third aspect, the first energy source is configured to apply an oscillating magnetic field to the reduced pressure zone, and the second energy source is configured to apply an electric arc to the reduced pressure zone. In some embodiments of the third aspect, the first energy source is configured to apply an oscillating magnetic field to a portion of the pipe upstream of the reduced pressure zone, a portion of the pipe downstream of the reduced pressure zone, or both, and the second energy source is configured to apply an electric arc to a portion of the pipe upstream of the reduced pressure zone, a portion of the pipe downstream of the reduced pressure zone, or both.

[0011] The nanobubble generator creates nanobubbles without an external gas source, thereby simplifying the device by eliminating the need for a separate gas source. By applying an oscillating magnetic field to the liquid as it flows through a reduced pressure zone, it is possible to create a high concentration of nanobubbles even if the pressure of the incoming liquid stream is low.

[0012] The above-described devices and methods can be used in a variety of applications. Examples include water treatment, such as wastewater treatment to remove pollutants from water bodies. Other examples include aquaculture and agriculture, where the compositions can be used to enhance the delivery of nutrients or remove biofilms from irrigation equipment and other surfaces. Yet another example is cleaning and disinfection, such as minimizing or eliminating the use of chemicals (such as chlorine) in hot tubs or spas.

[0013] The details of one or more embodiments of the invention are set forth in the following drawings and description. Other features, objects, and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the description, drawings, and claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] Figure 1A is a side view of an example apparatus for producing a composition including nanobubbles dispersed in a liquid carrier.

[0015] Figure 1B yes Figure 1A Cross-sectional side view of the device.

[0016] Figure 1C yes Figure 1A A perspective view of the device.

[0017] Figure 1D yes Figure 1A A cross-sectional perspective view of the device.

[0018] Figure 2A is a side view of an example apparatus for producing a composition including nanobubbles dispersed in a liquid carrier.

[0019] Figure 2B yes Figure 2A Cross-sectional side view of the device.

[0020] Figure 2C yes Figure 2A A perspective view of the device.

[0021] Figure 2D yes Figure 2A A cross-sectional perspective view of the device.

[0022] Figure 3A is a side view of an example apparatus for producing a composition including nanobubbles dispersed in a liquid carrier.

[0023] Figure 3B yes Figure 3A Cross-sectional side view of the device.

[0024] Figure 3C yes Figure 3A A perspective view of the device.

[0025] Figure 3D yes Figure 3A A cross-sectional perspective view of the device.

[0026] Figure 4 is a side view of an example apparatus for producing a composition including nanobubbles dispersed in a liquid carrier.

[0027] Figure 5 is a side view of an example apparatus for producing a composition including nanobubbles dispersed in a liquid carrier.

[0028] Figure 6 is a side view of an example apparatus for producing a composition including nanobubbles dispersed in a liquid carrier.

[0029] Figure 7 is a side view of an example apparatus for producing a composition including nanobubbles dispersed in a liquid carrier.

[0030] Figure 8 is a side view of an example apparatus for producing a composition including nanobubbles dispersed in a liquid carrier.

[0031] Fig. 9 is a side view of an example apparatus for producing a composition including nanobubbles dispersed in a liquid carrier.

[0032] Like reference numbers in the various drawings indicate like elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] The present disclosure describes an apparatus for generating nanobubbles in a liquid carrier. The nanobubbles have a diameter less than one micrometer (μm). In some embodiments, the nanobubbles have a diameter less than or equal to 500 nanometers (nm). In some embodiments, the nanobubbles have a diameter less than or equal to 200 nanometers (nm).

[0034] Figure 1A and Figure 1B 1 is a schematic diagram showing a side view and a cross-sectional view, respectively, of an exemplary apparatus 100 for creating a reduced pressure zone in a nanobubble generating apparatus (e.g., a nanobubble generator), which will be described in subsequent sections and figures (e.g., Figures 2A to 9 ) are discussed and shown in . Figure 1C and Figure 1Dare schematic diagrams showing a perspective view and a cross-sectional perspective view, respectively, of an exemplary device 100. The device 100 includes a housing 101 defined by a first end 101a, a second end 101b, and an internal cavity 102, and the internal cavity 102 is adapted to receive a liquid carrier from a liquid source. The housing 101 includes an outer surface 103 and an inner surface defining the internal cavity 102. The housing 101 has a liquid inlet 105 at the first end 101a and a liquid outlet 106 at the second end 101b. The housing 101 may be an elongated housing forming a conduit. The shape and size of the internal cavity 102 are formed to create a reduced pressure zone 107 between the liquid inlet 105 and the liquid outlet 106. As shown in FIG. Figure 1B and Figure 1D As shown, the inner surface of the inner cavity 102 has a constriction between the first end 101a and the pressure relief area 107. The inner surface 104 of the inner cavity 102 also includes a constriction between the pressure relief area 107 and the second end 101b.

[0035] The shape and size of the inner surface 104 of the internal cavity 102 in the housing 101 is formed to create a pressure relief zone 107 between the first end 101a and the second end 101b. The pressure relief zone 107 includes a gap 108 between the first housing portion 109 and the second housing portion 110. The gap 108 between the first housing portion 109 and the second housing portion 110 has a predetermined size. The gap is formed by the housing 101. In some embodiments, the gap can be selectively defined by a rod 112 connecting the first housing portion 109 to the second housing portion 110.

[0036] The rod 112 controls a predetermined distance of the gap 108 between the first housing portion 109 and the second housing portion 110, which helps to reduce the fluid pressure in the reduced pressure zone 107. In some embodiments, the device 100 does not include the rod 112 between the first housing portion 109 and the second housing portion 110. In this case, the first housing portion 109 and the second housing portion 110 can be positioned relative to each other by fixing the housing 101 to an outer tube, housing, or mounting. For example, the mounting can be used to couple the first housing portion 109 and the second housing portion 110 together in the device 100. In some embodiments, the housing includes one or more holes instead of the gap 108, and the one or more holes are formed as windows extending through the housing 101 from the inner surface 104 to the outer surface 103.

[0037] The narrowing or constriction of the interior cavity 102 between the first end 101a and the reduced pressure zone 107 and between the second end 101b and the reduced pressure zone 107 creates a venturi effect when liquid flows from the liquid inlet 105 through the narrowing in the interior cavity 102 to the reduced pressure zone 107. In some embodiments, the constriction between the first end 101a and the reduced pressure zone 107 in the first housing portion 109 forms a nozzle through which the fluid flows into the reduced pressure zone 107. The flow of fluid into the second housing portion 110 through the gap 108 at the reduced pressure zone 107 provides suction to the fluid in the gap 108, thereby generating a vacuum pressure configured to vaporize at least a portion of the fluid flowing through the gap 108. As will be described below, nanobubbles are formed when one or more electrical conductors proximate to the reduced pressure zone 107 generate an oscillating magnetic field above the reduced pressure zone 107, provide an electric arc in the reduced pressure zone 107, or both. In some examples, an oscillating magnetic field is generated or an electric arc is provided above the first shell portion 109 upstream of the reduced pressure zone 107, above the second shell portion 110 downstream of the reduced pressure zone 107, or above both. For example, the oscillating magnetic field, the electric arc, or both interact with gas that has been dissolved in the fluid to generate nanobubbles in the fluid.

[0038] In some embodiments, the device 100 is connected to a liquid source that provides a liquid carrier (e.g., water). In some embodiments, the liquid source is a container or body of water connected to a pump via a suction line. In some embodiments, the pump is a variable speed pump. In some embodiments, the pump is connected to the device 100 via a discharge line with a control valve. In some embodiments, the discharge line is in fluid communication with the housing 101. For example, the liquid carrier flows from the pump through the control valve, through the discharge line and flows to the first end 101a. The opening percentage of the control valve can be adjusted to control the pressure and flow rate of the liquid carrier flowing to the device 100.

[0039] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D 2 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary apparatus 200 for producing a composition comprising nanobubbles dispersed in a liquid carrier. Apparatus 200 includes a reduced pressure zone structure having the same reduced pressure zone structure as described above with respect to Figures 1A to 1D The device 200 includes an outer tube 220 surrounding the housing 201, and an electromagnetic coil 214.

[0040] The device 200 is further connected to an energy source, which includes a power supply, a signal generator, and at least one electrical conductor configured to apply an oscillating magnetic field to the housing 201, for example, to the reduced pressure zone 207, the first housing portion 209 upstream of the reduced pressure zone 207, or the second housing portion 210 downstream of the reduced pressure zone. The device 200 creates nanobubbles without an external gas source. As will be discussed in more detail below, the electrical conductor may include one or more electrode needles, concentric electrodes, wires, and spiral members (such as electromagnetic coils). The shape of the electrode can have a variety of forms, for example, the electrode can include a conductive surface that is flat, spiral, disc-shaped, spherical, trapezoidal, or a combination of the above. The electrical conductor is configured to generate an oscillating field in the reduced pressure zone so that the field is parallel and concentric with the flow of the fluid. The electrodes and electromagnetic coils can be used in combination or alone to provide an oscillating magnetic field and / or an arc at the reduced pressure zone.

[0041] In some embodiments, the liquid carrier containing nanobubbles formed by the device 200 flows out of the device 200 (e.g., flows out of the second end 201b) to a discharge line. In some embodiments, the liquid carrier containing nanobubbles formed by the device 200 flows out of the device 200 to a plurality of selectable discharge lines (e.g., in a container or body of water).

[0042] As described above, the device 200 can include an outer tube 220 to hold the first housing portion 209 at a distance from the second housing portion 210, thereby creating a gap 208 in the housing 201. The electromagnetic coil 214 is positioned on the outer tube 220 above the reduced pressure zone 207. The electromagnetic coil 214 is coupled to a power source and a signal generator 216. The electromagnetic coil 214 provides a magnetic flux parallel to the fluid flow at the reduced pressure zone 207. In some embodiments, the electromagnetic coil 214 provides an oscillating magnetic field to the reduced pressure zone 207. In some embodiments, the electromagnetic coil 214 is positioned to provide a magnetic flux at the second housing portion 210. Although the electromagnetic coil 214 is positioned on the outer tube 220, in some embodiments, the electromagnetic coil 214 is positioned within the outer tube 220. In some embodiments, the electromagnetic coil 214 is positioned around the outer surface of the housing 201 or within the housing 201.

[0043] FIG. 3A to FIG. 3D is a schematic diagram of an exemplary apparatus 300, the apparatus 300 comprising Figures 1A to 1D and FIG. 2A to FIG. 2DThe device 300 includes a first electromagnetic coil 314 and a second electromagnetic coil 318 positioned on an outer tube 320. The first electromagnetic coil 314 is positioned on a side of the reduced pressure zone 307 toward the fluid outlet 306, while the second electromagnetic coil 318 is positioned on the opposite side of the reduced pressure zone 307 toward the fluid inlet 305. The first electromagnetic coil 314 and the second electromagnetic coil 318 are coupled to a power supply and a signal generator 316. When power is supplied to the first electromagnetic coil 314 and the second electromagnetic coil 318, the first electromagnetic coil 314 and the second electromagnetic coil 318 provide oscillating magnetic fields that overlap on the housing 301 (e.g., on the reduced pressure zone 307, on the first housing portion 309 upstream of the reduced pressure zone 307, or on the second housing portion 310 downstream of the reduced pressure zone). For example, the first electromagnetic coil 314 and the second electromagnetic coil 318 are arranged so that the oscillating magnetic fields converge on the housing (e.g., on the reduced pressure zone 307). Although the first electromagnetic coil 314 and the second electromagnetic coil 318 are each positioned on the outer tube 320, in some embodiments, the first electromagnetic coil 314 and the second electromagnetic coil 318 are each positioned within the outer tube 320. In some embodiments, the first electromagnetic coil 314 and the second electromagnetic coil 138 are positioned around the outer surface of the housing 301 or within the housing 301. In some embodiments, a portion of one or both of the first electromagnetic coil 314 and the second electromagnetic coil 318 extends over a portion of the reduced pressure zone 307.

[0044] Figure 4Another exemplary device 400 is shown. While the device 400 includes some of the same features (e.g., outer tube 420, reduced pressure zone 407) of the previously discussed devices (e.g., devices 100, 200, 300), this section focuses on the differences that exist in the device 400. For example, the device 400 includes a first electrode 422 and a second electrode 424, which are positioned in the flow path through the cavity 402 on either side of the gap 408 that forms the reduced pressure zone 407. The first electrode 422 is adjacent to the gap 408 and is positioned toward the fluid inlet 405, while the second electrode 424 is adjacent to the gap 408 and is positioned toward the fluid outlet 406. The first electrode 422 and the second electrode 424 are coupled to a power supply and a voltage amplifier 416. In some examples, the first electrode 422 and the second electrode 424 are coupled to a power supply without an amplifier. The first electrode 422 and the second electrode 424 generate an arc and apply the arc across the gap 408 at the reduced pressure zone 407, at the first shell portion 409 upstream of the reduced pressure zone 407, or to the second shell portion 410 downstream of the reduced pressure zone. In some embodiments, the first electrode 422 and the second electrode 424 generate a plasma. The arc can move from the first electrode 422 to the second electrode 424 in a first direction, from the second electrode 424 to the first electrode 422 in a second direction, or have a directionality that alternates over time.

[0045] The first electrode 422 and the second electrode 424 may each have a length and a thickness. In some embodiments, the length and / or thickness of the first electrode 422 is different from the length and / or thickness of the second electrode 424. The first electrode 422 and the second electrode 424 are separated from each other by a distance d' in the direction of fluid flow. In some embodiments, the distance separating the first electrode 422 from the second electrode 424 is the same distance as the length of the gap 408 between the first shell portion 409 and the second shell portion 410. In some embodiments, the distance separating the first electrode 422 from the second electrode 424 is less than the length of the gap 408 between the first shell portion 409 and the second shell portion 410. In some embodiments, the distance separating the first electrode 422 from the second electrode 424 is greater than the length of the gap 408 between the first shell portion 409 and the second shell portion 410. In some embodiments, the first electrode 422 and the second electrode 424 are positioned at the center of the shell 401 along a longitudinal axis that is equidistant from all inner surfaces 404 of the internal cavity 402. In some embodiments, the first electrode 422 and the second electrode 424 are offset from the center of the housing 401. In some embodiments, the first electrode 422 and the second electrode 424 are formed as electrode needles pointing toward each other within or across the reduced pressure zone 407. In some embodiments, the first electrode 422 and the second electrode 424 are offset relative to the reduced pressure zone 407 so as to generate an arc within the first housing portion 409 or the second housing portion 410, rather than across or within the reduced pressure zone 407. In some embodiments, at least one of the first electrode 422 and the second electrode 424 is positioned on the outer surface 404 of the housing 401. In some embodiments, at least one of the first electrode 422 and the second electrode 424 is positioned on the inner surface 404 of the housing 401. In some examples, the housing 401 itself is the first electrode 422 or the second electrode 424.

[0046] Figure 5 Another exemplary device 500 is shown. Device 500 includes some of the same features of the previously discussed devices (e.g., device 400) (e.g., first electrode 522 and second electrode 524), and this section focuses on the differences that exist in device 500. For example, first electrode 522 and second electrode 524 are positioned transverse to the flow direction in device 500. First electrode 522 is positioned transverse to the flow direction and the longitudinal axis of housing 501, and extends into gap 508 at reduced pressure zone 507. Second electrode 524 is positioned opposite first electrode 522, transverse to the flow direction and the longitudinal axis of housing 501, and extends into gap 508 at reduced pressure zone 507. First electrode 522 and second electrode 524 are coupled to a power supply and voltage amplifier 516. In some examples, first electrode 522 and second electrode 524 are coupled to a power supply without an amplifier.

[0047] The first electrode 522 and the second electrode 524 may each have a length and a thickness. In some embodiments, the length and / or thickness of the first electrode 522 is different from the length and / or thickness of the second electrode 524. The first electrode 522 and the second electrode 524 are separated from each other by a certain distance measured transversely to the direction of fluid flow. In some embodiments, the first electrode 522 and the second electrode 524 are oriented to be 90 degrees to the direction of fluid flow. In some embodiments, the distance separating the first electrode 522 from the second electrode 524 is the same distance as the diameter of the shell 501 adjacent to the decompression zone 507. In some embodiments, the distance separating the first electrode 522 from the second electrode 524 is less than the diameter of the shell 501 adjacent to the decompression zone 507. In some embodiments, the first electrode 522 and the second electrode 524 are positioned at the midpoint of the gap 508 between the first shell portion 509 and the second shell portion 510. In some embodiments, the first electrode 522 and the second electrode 524 deviate from the midpoint of the gap 508 between the first shell portion 509 and the second shell portion 510.

[0048] Figure 6 Another exemplary device 600 is shown. Device 600 includes some of the same features of the previously discussed devices (e.g., devices 100, 200, 300, 400, 500) (e.g., outer tube 620, reduced pressure zone 607), and this section focuses on the differences that exist in device 600. For example, device 600 includes a first electrode 622 and a second electrode 624, and a first electromagnetic coil 614 and a second electromagnetic coil 618. The first electrode 622 and the second electrode 624 are oriented in the direction of fluid flow through the cavity 602 from the fluid inlet 605 to the fluid outlet 606. The first electrode 622 and the second electrode 624 are coupled to a first power supply and a voltage amplifier 616. In some examples, the first electrode 622 and the second electrode 624 are coupled to a power supply without an amplifier.

[0049] The first electromagnetic coil 614 and the second electromagnetic coil 618 are positioned around the outer tube 620 on either side of the gap 608 at the reduced pressure zone 607 and are coupled to a second power source and signal generator 626. Although the first electromagnetic coil 614 and the second electromagnetic coil 618 are each positioned on the outer tube 620, in some embodiments, the first electromagnetic coil 614 and the second electromagnetic coil 618 are each positioned within the outer tube 620, around the outer surface 603 of the housing 601. In some embodiments, portions of one or both of the first electromagnetic coil 614 and the second electromagnetic coil 618 extend over portions of the reduced pressure zone 607. In some embodiments, during use of the device 600, the first electrode 622 and the second electrode 624 generate an arc at the reduced pressure zone 607, and the first electromagnetic coil 614 and the second electromagnetic coil 618 generate oscillating magnetic fields that overlap and combine at the housing 601 (e.g., at the reduced pressure zone 607). In some examples, an electric arc is provided at one or both of the first housing portion 609 or the second housing portion 610, or the oscillating magnetic fields overlap and combine at one or both of the first housing portion 609 or the second housing portion 610. For example, the first electromagnetic coil 614 and the second electromagnetic coil 618 are arranged so that the oscillating magnetic field converges on the housing (e.g., on the reduced pressure zone 607). In some embodiments, the device 600 includes a switch (not shown) that allows selection of the first electrode 622 and the second electrode 624 or the first electromagnetic coil 614 and the second electromagnetic coil 618 as a mechanism for generating nanobubbles. In some embodiments, the device 600 may include the first electrode 622 and the second electrode 624 and a single electromagnetic coil, and these electrodes and electromagnetic coils may be used alone or in combination to generate nanobubbles.

[0050] Figure 7 Another exemplary device 700 is shown. Device 700 includes some of the same features of previously discussed devices (e.g., device 600) (e.g., first and second electrodes 722, 724, first and second electromagnetic coils 714, 718), and this section focuses on the differences that exist in device 700. For example, device 700 includes first and second electrodes 722, 724, each positioned transverse to the direction of flow through cavity 702 and transverse to the longitudinal axis of housing 701. Each of first and second electrodes 722, 724 extends into gap 708 at reduced pressure zone 707.

[0051] The device 700 also includes a first electromagnetic coil 714 and a second electromagnetic coil 718. The first electrode 722 and the second electrode 724 are coupled to the first power supply and the voltage amplifier 716, and the first electromagnetic coil 714 and the second electromagnetic coil 718 are coupled to the second power supply and the signal generator 726. In some examples, the first electrode 722 and the second electrode 724 are coupled to the first power supply without an amplifier. Although the first electromagnetic coil 714 and the second electromagnetic coil 718 are each positioned on the outer tube 720, in some embodiments, the first electromagnetic coil 714 and the second electromagnetic coil 718 are each positioned within the outer tube 720, around the outer surface 703 of the housing 701. In some embodiments, a portion of one or both of the first electromagnetic coil 714 and the second electromagnetic coil 718 extends over a portion of the reduced pressure zone 707. As described above, the first electrode 722 and the second electrode 724 can be used in combination with the first electromagnetic coil 714 and the second electromagnetic coil 718, or the device 700 can include a switch for selecting a mechanism for using an electrode or coil alone. In some embodiments, the device 700 can include a first electrode 722 and a second electrode 724 and a single electromagnetic coil, and these electrodes and electromagnetic coils can be used alone or in combination to generate nanobubbles.

[0052] Figure 8 Another exemplary device 800 is shown. Device 800 includes some of the same features of the previously discussed devices (e.g., devices 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700) (e.g., outer tube 820, reduced pressure zone 807), and this section focuses on the differences that exist in device 800. For example, device 800 includes a tubular outer concentric electrode 828 and an inner concentric electrode 830 positioned within housing 801. Inner concentric electrode 830 is positioned at the center of housing 801 and extends across gap 808 in reduced pressure zone 807. Outer concentric electrode 828 extends around inner concentric electrode 830 and is positioned within housing 801 and across gap 808 in reduced pressure zone 807. In some embodiments, at least one of inner concentric electrode 830 and outer concentric electrode 828 is positioned in contact with outer surface 804 of housing 801. In some embodiments, at least one of the inner concentric electrode 830 and the outer concentric electrode 828 is positioned in contact with the inner surface 804 of the housing 801 .

[0053] The inner concentric electrode 830 and the outer concentric electrode 828 are coupled to a power supply and a voltage amplifier 816. In some examples, the inner concentric electrode 830 and the outer concentric electrode 828 are coupled to a power supply without an amplifier. In use, the inner concentric electrode 830 and the outer concentric electrode 828 generate an arc at the reduced pressure zone 807, or at one or both of the first shell 809 portion or the second shell portion 810.

[0054] Fig. 9Another exemplary device 900 is shown. Device 900 includes some of the same features of the previously discussed devices (e.g., devices 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800) (e.g., outer tube 920, reduced pressure zone 907, inner concentric electrode 930, and outer concentric electrode 928), and this section focuses on the differences that exist in device 900. For example, device 900 includes a first electromagnetic coil 914 and a second electromagnetic coil 918 in combination with the inner concentric electrode 930 and the outer concentric electrode 928.

[0055] The inner concentric electrode 930 is positioned in the center of the shell 901 and extends across the gap 908 in the reduced pressure zone 907. The outer concentric electrode 928 extends around the inner concentric electrode 930 and is positioned within the shell 907 and across the gap 908 in the reduced pressure zone 907. The inner concentric electrode 930 and the outer concentric electrode 928 are coupled to a power supply and a voltage amplifier 916. In some examples, the inner concentric electrode 930 and the outer concentric electrode 928 are coupled to a power supply without an amplifier. In use, the inner concentric electrode 930 and the outer concentric electrode 928 generate an arc at the reduced pressure zone 907, or at one or both of the first shell 909 portion or the second shell portion 910.

[0056] The first electromagnetic coil 914 and the second electromagnetic coil 918 are coupled to a second power source and signal generator 926. In use, the first electromagnetic coil 914 and the second electromagnetic coil 918 each provide an oscillating magnetic field that overlaps and combines at the housing 901 (e.g., at the reduced pressure zone 907, or at one or both of the first housing portion 909 or the second housing portion 910). For example, the first electromagnetic coil 914 and the second electromagnetic coil 918 are arranged so that the oscillating magnetic field converges on the housing (e.g., on the reduced pressure zone 907). Although the first electromagnetic coil 914 and the second electromagnetic coil 918 are each positioned on the outer tube 920, in some embodiments, the first electromagnetic coil 914 and the second electromagnetic coil 918 are each positioned within the outer tube 920, around the outer surface 903 of the housing 901. In some embodiments, a portion of one or both of the first electromagnetic coil 914 and the second electromagnetic coil 918 extends over a portion of the reduced pressure zone 907. Inner concentric electrodes 930 and outer concentric electrodes 928 may be used in combination with first electromagnetic coil 914 and second electromagnetic coil 918, or device 900 may include a switch for selecting between electrodes and coils. In some embodiments, device 600 may include inner concentric electrodes 930 and outer concentric electrodes 928 and a single electromagnetic coil, and these electrodes and electromagnetic coils may be used alone or in combination to generate nanobubbles.

[0057] As above FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D and Figure 3 to Fig. 9The electrical conductor may include one or more electrode needles, concentric electrodes and electromagnetic coils. The electrodes and electromagnetic coils may be used in combination or alone to provide current and / or magnetic field at the reduced pressure zone. In some embodiments, the stator may be used as an electrical conductor as a substitute for or in combination with one or more electromagnetic coils. In some embodiments, one or more needle electrodes positioned in the housing or across the housing transverse to the flow direction may be replaced by one or more wires in the flow path.

[0058] A method for producing a composition including nanobubbles dispersed in a liquid carrier using any of the above-described apparatuses includes introducing the liquid carrier from a liquid source into an interior cavity of the housing through a liquid inlet of the housing, and applying an oscillating magnetic field or electric arc across a reduced pressure zone of the housing using one or more electrical conductors as the liquid flows from the liquid inlet of the housing to the liquid outlet of the housing. The oscillating magnetic field or electric arc applied across the reduced pressure zone as the liquid flows through the housing produces nanobubbles without an external gas source. Creating nanobubbles without an external gas source simplifies the apparatus by eliminating the need for a separate gas source. By applying an oscillating magnetic field and / or electric arc to the liquid as it flows through the reduced pressure zone, it is possible to create a high concentration of nanobubbles even if the pressure of the incoming liquid stream is low.

[0059] Several embodiments of the present invention have been described. However, it should be understood that various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, other embodiments are included within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A nano bubble generator, comprising: (a) a conduit comprising an outer surface, an inner surface, an interior cavity, a liquid inlet, and a liquid outlet, a liquid being able to flow through the interior cavity, the interior cavity being configured to create a reduced pressure zone between the liquid inlet and the liquid outlet; as well as (b) an energy source comprising a power source, a signal generator, and at least one electrical conductor configured to apply an oscillating magnetic field to the conduit, wherein the generator creates nanobubbles without an external gas source.

2. The nanobubble generator of claim 1, wherein the electrical conductor is configured to apply the oscillating magnetic field to the reduced pressure zone.

3. The nanobubble generator of claim 1 or 2, wherein the electrical conductor is configured to apply the oscillating magnetic field to a portion of the conduit upstream of the reduced pressure zone, a portion of the conduit downstream of the reduced pressure zone, or both.

4. The nanobubble generator of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the electrical conductor is positioned on the outer surface of the conduit.

5. The nanobubble generator of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the electrical conductor is positioned on the inner surface of the conduit.

6. The nanobubble generator of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the electrical conductor comprises a magnetic coil.

7. The nanobubble generator of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the electrical conductor comprises a stator.

8. The nanobubble generator of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the electrical conductor comprises a wire.

9. The nanobubble generator of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the energy source comprises a pair of magnetic coils configured to generate an oscillating magnetic field that overlaps at the conduit.

10. The nanobubble generator of claim 9, wherein the energy source comprises four magnetic coils.

11. The nanobubble generator of any of the preceding claims, wherein the energy source comprises a pair of magnetic coils configured to generate an oscillating magnetic field, wherein the magnetic field converges at the conduit.

12. A nano bubble generator, comprising: (a) a conduit comprising an outer surface, an inner surface, an interior cavity, a liquid inlet, and a liquid outlet, a liquid being able to flow through the interior cavity, the interior cavity being configured to create a reduced pressure zone between the liquid inlet and the liquid outlet; as well as (b) an energy source comprising a power source and a pair of electrical conductors configured to generate an electric arc between the two electrical conductors and apply the electric arc to the pipeline, The generator creates nanobubbles without an external gas source.

13. The nanobubble generator of claim 12, wherein the energy source is configured to apply the arc to the reduced pressure zone.

14. The nanobubble generator of claim 12 or 13, wherein the energy source is configured to apply the arc to a portion of the conduit upstream of the reduced pressure zone, a portion of the conduit downstream of the reduced pressure zone, or both.

15. The nanobubble generator of any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein at least one of the electrical conductors is positioned on an outer surface of the conduit.

16. The nanobubble generator of any one of claims 12 to 15, wherein at least one of the electrical conductors is the pipe.

17. The nanobubble generator of any one of claims 12 to 16, wherein at least one of the electrical conductors is positioned on the inner surface of the conduit.

18. The nanobubble generator of any one of claims 12 to 17, wherein at least one of the electrical conductors comprises a wire.

19. A nano bubble generator, comprising: (a) a conduit comprising an outer surface, an inner surface, an interior cavity, a liquid inlet, and a liquid outlet, a liquid being able to flow through the interior cavity, the interior cavity being configured to create a reduced pressure zone between the liquid inlet and the liquid outlet; as well as (b) a first energy source comprising a power source, a signal generator, and at least one electrical conductor configured to apply an oscillating magnetic field to the conduit; and (c) a second energy source comprising a power source and a pair of electrical conductors configured to generate an electric arc between the two electrical conductors and apply the electric arc to the pipeline, The generator creates nanobubbles without an external gas source.

20. The nanobubble generator of claim 19, wherein: The first energy source is configured to apply the oscillating magnetic field to the reduced pressure zone, and The second energy source is configured to apply the arc to the reduced pressure zone.

21. The nanobubble generator of claim 19 or 20, wherein: The first energy source is configured to apply the oscillating magnetic field to a portion of the conduit upstream of the reduced pressure zone, a portion of the conduit downstream of the reduced pressure zone, or both, and The second energy source is configured to apply the arc to the portion of the conduit upstream of the reduced pressure zone, the portion of the conduit downstream of the reduced pressure zone, or both.

22. The nanobubble generator of any one of claims 19 to 21, wherein the electrical conductor, the pair of electrical conductors, or both are positioned on the outer surface of the conduit.

23. The nanobubble generator of any one of claims 19 to 22, wherein the electrical conductor or one of the pair of electrical conductors is the pipe.

24. The nanobubble generator of any one of claims 19 to 23, wherein the electrical conductor, the pair of electrical conductors, or both are positioned on the inner surface of the conduit.

25. The nanobubble generator of any one of claims 19 to 24, wherein the electrical conductor comprises a magnetic coil.

26. The nanobubble generator of any one of claims 19 to 25, wherein the electrical conductor comprises a stator.

27. The nanobubble generator of any one of claims 19 to 26, wherein the electrical conductor, the pair of electrical conductors, or both comprise a wire.

28. The nanobubble generator of any one of claims 19 to 27, wherein the first energy source comprises a pair of magnetic coils configured to generate an oscillating magnetic field that overlaps at the conduit.

29. The nanobubble generator of any one of claims 19 to 28, wherein the first energy source comprises a pair of magnetic coils configured to generate an oscillating magnetic field, wherein the magnetic field converges at the conduit.

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