Apparatus for preparing an aqueous solution comprising at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate

Abstract

The invention relates to an apparatus for the preparation of an aqueous solution comprising at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate, the use of the apparatus for the preparation of an aqueous solution comprising at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate and the use of the apparatus for the mineralization and / or stabilization of water.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of Chinese patent application filed on February 3, 2017, with application number 201780009711.7 and entitled "Apparatus for preparing an aqueous solution containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate". Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to an apparatus for preparing an aqueous solution containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate, the use of the apparatus for preparing an aqueous solution containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate, and the use of the apparatus for the mineralization and / or stabilization of water. Background Technology

[0003] Drinking water has become scarce. Even in water-rich countries, not all water sources and reservoirs are suitable for drinking water production, and many water sources are now threatened by rapidly deteriorating water quality. Initially, water supplies for drinking purposes were mainly surface water and groundwater. However, for environmental and economic reasons, the treatment of seawater, saline water, brackish water, wastewater, and polluted discharges has become increasingly important.

[0004] For the recovery of water from seawater or brackish water (for drinking), several devices and methods are known to be of considerable importance in arid regions, coastal areas, and islands. These devices and methods typically include distillation, electrolysis, and osmosis or reverse osmosis. Water obtained by these methods is very soft and has a low pH due to the lack of pH buffer salts, and therefore tends to be highly reactive. Without treatment, this water can cause severe corrosion difficulties during its distribution in conventional pipelines. Furthermore, untreated desalinated water cannot be used directly as a drinking water source. To prevent the dissolution of undesirable substances in the pipeline system, to avoid corrosion of water supply equipment such as pipes and valves, and to make the water palatable, it is necessary to increase the mineral and alkalinity content of the water.

[0005] Traditional methods and equipment primarily used for water mineralization involve the addition of lime through carbon dioxide and limestone bed filtration (also known as calcite contactors) and the dissolution of partially carbonated lime. Other less common mineralization methods include, for example, the addition of slaked lime and sodium carbonate, the addition of calcium sulfate and sodium bicarbonate, or the addition of calcium chloride and sodium bicarbonate.

[0006] This lime process involves treating a lime solution with water acidified with CO2, which involves the following reactions:

[0007] From the above reaction scheme, we can conclude that two equivalents of CO2 are needed to convert one equivalent of Ca(OH)2 into Ca. 2+ And bicarbonate ions are used for mineralization. This method depends on the addition of two equivalents of CO2 to convert the basic hydroxide ions into the buffer species HCO3-.- For water mineralization, a saturated calcium hydroxide solution, commonly known as limewater, is prepared from lime slurry (usually up to 5% by weight) at 0.1-0.2% by weight of the total weight. Therefore, a saturator for producing limewater must be used, and a large volume of limewater is required to achieve the target levels of mineral and alkalinity content. Another drawback of this method is that slaked lime is corrosive and requires proper treatment and specific equipment. Furthermore, improperly controlled addition of slaked lime to soft water can lead to undesirable pH changes due to the lack of buffering properties of lime.

[0008] The limestone bed filtration method involves passing soft water through a granular limestone bed to dissolve calcium carbonate in the water flow. Water is mineralized by contacting limestone with CO2-acidified water according to the following reaction:

[0009]

[0010] Unlike the lime method, only one equivalent of CO2 is needed stoichiometrically to convert one equivalent of CaCO3 into Ca. 2+ Limestone and bicarbonate are added for mineralization and alkalinity enhancement. Furthermore, limestone is non-corrosive, and the buffering properties of CaCO3 prevent large pH changes. However, the reaction slows down as pH increases, necessitating the addition of metered CO2 to ensure sufficient CaCO3 dissolves. Unreacted CO2 is then removed by stripping or neutralization with sodium hydroxide.

[0011] Methods and systems for water mineralization using lime slurry or lime paste are described in US 7,374,694 and EP0 520 826. US 5,914,046 describes a method for reducing the acidity of wastewater discharge using a pulsed limestone bed.

[0012] US 7,771,599 describes a method for mineralizing process water in a desalination system. This method separates carbon dioxide gas from seawater or a concentrate (brine) from a desalination process via a gas transfer membrane. The separated carbon dioxide gas is then used to produce soluble calcium bicarbonate (Ca(HCO3)2). WO 2012 / 020056 A1 addresses a method for mineralizing water, comprising the steps of supplying water and injecting gaseous carbon dioxide and a slurry into the supply water, wherein the slurry contains micronized calcium carbonate. WO 2010 / 023742 A2 describes a method and apparatus for producing drinking water from desalinated water obtained by desalination of seawater via distillation or reverse osmosis through post-processing (post-treatment). This method includes a carbon dioxide absorption process in which excess carbon dioxide is supplied to the desalinated water to absorb carbon dioxide, a mineralization process in which the carbon dioxide-adsorbed desalinated water is passed through a limestone filter (filled with limestone to form calcium and bicarbonate ions), and a carbon dioxide removal process in which air is supplied to the desalinated water that has passed through the mineralization process to remove carbon dioxide and air, thereby obtaining drinking water. WO 2012 / 113957 A1 relates to a method for remineralizing fluids, wherein the final turbidity is controlled. The method includes steps comprising reagent dosing, remineralization, and filtration. EP 2565165 A1 relates to a water mineralization method comprising the steps of: providing water; providing an aqueous solution of calcium carbonate, wherein the aqueous solution of calcium carbonate contains dissolved calcium carbonate and its reactive species; and combining the water and the aqueous solution of calcium carbonate. EP 2623466 A1 relates to a method for preparing an aqueous solution containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate and its use. The method can be carried out in a reactor system including a tank equipped with a stirrer, at least one filtration device, and a grinding device. EP 2623467 A1 relates to a method for preparing an aqueous solution containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate and its use. The method is carried out in a reactor system including a tank equipped with a stirrer and at least one filtration device. EP 2623564 A1 relates to an apparatus for purifying minerals, pigments and / or fillers and / or for preparing precipitated alkaline earth metal carbonates and / or for water mineralization, and the use of such apparatus for purifying minerals, pigments and / or fillers and / or for water mineralization and / or for preparing precipitated alkaline earth metal carbonates. WO 2013 / 132399 A1 relates to water mineralization carried out by mixing powdered carbonates into water in a rapid process, generating CO2 in the water but increasing its turbidity. The treated water is then conveyed via a reactor containing granular carbonates, wherein the CO2 in the water slowly dissolves the additional carbonates. The reactor simultaneously adds additional minerals and alkalinity to the water, and removes the turbidity of the water by dissolving residual powder and filtering insoluble particles.CN 102826689 A1 relates to a post-treatment process for desalinated seawater, comprising the following steps: (1) adding CO2 to the desalinated seawater and mixing thoroughly; and (2) mineralizing the desalinated seawater with added CO2 in a mineralization tank; setting up a calcium carbonate filter bed in the mineralization tank; and passing the desalinated seawater with added CO2 through the calcium carbonate filter bed to achieve sufficient contact and reaction with the calcium carbonate. WO 2013 / 014026 A1 relates to a method for treating water and the use of calcium carbonate in this method. In particular, it relates to a method for water remineralization, comprising the following steps: (a) providing feedwater having a carbon dioxide concentration of at least 20 mg / L, preferably in the range of 25 to 100 mg / L, and more preferably in the range of 30 to 60 mg / L; (b) providing an aqueous slurry comprising micronized calcium carbonate; and (c) combining the feedwater of step (a) with the aqueous slurry of step (b) to obtain remineralized water. WO 2014 / 187666 A1 relates to a multi-batch system for preparing calcium bicarbonate solution and the use of such a dual-batch system for preparing calcium bicarbonate solution. WO 2014 / 187613 A1 relates to an apparatus for preparing calcium bicarbonate solution and the use of such apparatus for the continuous preparation of calcium bicarbonate solution and for the remineralization of water.

[0013] US 2009 / 0101573 A1 relates to a wastewater treatment apparatus and method in which a mineral mixing tank receives biologically treated water, sludge produced by the biological treatment, and mineral sludge containing calcium and the like from a settling tank. A mineral pump returns the sludge and treated water from the mineral mixing tank to a raw water tank. An air lift pump circulates the treated water between a reaeration tank and a denitrification tank having a semi-anaerobic section. During the circulation of the treated water between the reaeration tank and the denitrification tank, the semi-anaerobic section mitigates environmental changes for microorganisms, thereby creating an environment conducive to microbial growth. The air lift pump enables agitation with low energy consumption, even when microorganisms are cultured to their high concentrations. WO 2006 / 128730 A1 describes a method for treating a feed stream of an aqueous medium of a given composition, the feed stream containing potentially fouling components dissolved in a reverse osmosis (RO) system under given process conditions, thereby providing a permeate stream and a concentrate stream containing potentially fouling components at a concentration sufficiently high to cause fouling in those portions of the RO system that come into contact with the concentrate in the absence of a fouling inhibitor. In this method, (a) the concentrate is continuously monitored to detect the presence of particles of the potentially fouling components in the concentrate, and readings of one or more physical parameters of the concentrate associated with the presence of these particles are continuously recorded; (b) the recorded readings are continuously compared with measurements of the one or more parameters of the concentrate obtained from an aqueous medium of the same composition under the same process conditions, the values ​​of which are empirically predetermined; and (c) once the recorded reading of the one or more parameters differs from the predetermined measurement, an amount of fouling inhibitor is added to the RO system upstream of the membrane, the amount of which has been empirically predetermined to prevent fouling under the conditions. WO 98 / 46533 A1 relates to a system for purifying water to remove at least one of natural organic matter, color, turbidity, bacteria, cysts and oocysts, viruses, arsenic compounds, and insoluble impurities. The system includes the steps of: providing a body of water to be purified; controlling the pH of the water body within a range of 5 to 8; and adding a coagulant to the water body to provide flocculants. The flocculants are maintained in the water body at a concentration of 1-6 to adsorb at least one of natural organic matter, color, turbidity, and bacteria to provide treated water. Subsequently, the first portion of the treated water and the flocculants are removed from the water body. US 6,027,649 A relates to a system for purifying water to remove at least one of natural organic matter, color, turbidity, bacteria, cysts and oocysts, viruses, arsenic compounds, and insoluble impurities. The system includes the steps of: providing a body of water to be purified; controlling the pH of the water body within a range of 5-8; and adding a coagulant to the water body to provide flocculants. The flocculants are maintained in the water at a concentration of 1-6, with the aim of adsorbing at least one of natural organic matter, color, turbidity, and bacteria to provide treated water.Subsequently, the treated water and flocculants from the first part are removed from the water body. A submerged semi-permeable membrane is provided in the water body for removing the treated water from the second part. This membrane has a pore size of 0.02-1 μm to provide a permeate consisting of purified water and a residue containing flocculants. The water body is treated by mixing to minimize membrane fouling and to ensure thorough mixing of the flocculants in the water body. US 2010 / 0224541 A1 describes a small bubble diffuser tube capable of uniformly and consistently generating small bubbles, even when the diffuser tube has a long length; small bubble diffuser devices and submerged membrane separation equipment using such tubes are manufactured. US 2013 / 0064741 A1 relates to a system for fixing carbon dioxide. The system includes a first reactor for extracting alkali metal components from slag and a second reactor for carbonating the extracted alkali metal components with carbon dioxide. Using this system, carbon dioxide can be fixed in a simpler and more cost-effective manner.

[0014] However, the devices described in the prior art have the following disadvantages: the preparation of water mineralization and / or stabilization, and especially of aqueous solutions containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate (for water mineralization), shows that CO2 efficiency can still be improved and / or excessive energy consumption.

[0015] In view of the above, improving the mineralization and / or stabilization of water remains of interest to those skilled in the art. In particular, it is desirable to provide an alternative or improved apparatus for preparing an aqueous solution containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate, which can be prepared in a more efficient, economical, and ecological manner, especially for improving the efficiency of CO2 consumption for the apparatus or the method implemented therein, and without excessive energy consumption for the apparatus and the corresponding method. Summary of the Invention

[0016] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus for preparing an aqueous solution containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate. Another object can be seen as providing an apparatus for preparing an aqueous solution containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate that improves the CO2 consumption efficiency of the apparatus or the method performed therein. Another object can be seen as providing an apparatus for preparing an aqueous solution containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate that reduces the total energy consumption of the apparatus and the corresponding method. Another object can be seen as providing an apparatus for preparing an aqueous solution containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate in which sludge production is reduced compared to typical lime systems of the prior art.

[0017] One or more of the foregoing and other problems are addressed by the subject matter defined herein in the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are defined in the corresponding dependent claims.

[0018] A first aspect of the invention relates to an apparatus for preparing an aqueous solution comprising at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate. The apparatus includes...

[0019] a) Provide the process flow path for water.

[0020] (b) At least one dosing unit adapted to dose at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material into at least a portion of the water provided in the process flow path to obtain an aqueous suspension containing at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material.

[0021] c) At least one suitable for converting CO2 or pK a A means for dispensing an acid with a pH < 5 into at least a portion of the water provided in the process flow or into an aqueous suspension containing at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material, to obtain an aqueous suspension S1 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate, and

[0022] d) A container connected to the at least one process flow line via an inlet, wherein the container

[0023] i) The container is configured such that at least one submerged membrane module is located within it for filtering at least a portion of the aqueous suspension S1 by passing it through the at least one submerged membrane module to obtain an aqueous solution S2 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate.

[0024] ii) Includes at least one outlet for releasing an aqueous solution S2 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate from the container.

[0025] According to another aspect of the invention, there is a use for preparing an aqueous solution comprising at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate, as defined herein.

[0026] According to another aspect of the invention, an apparatus as defined herein is provided for use in the mineralization and / or stabilization of water.

[0027] According to one embodiment of the device of the present invention, the at least one dispensing unit i) is connected to a storage container for solid materials, and / or ii) is configured such that the at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material is directly dispensed into water provided in the process flow line, or iii) is connected to a vessel suitable for preparing an aqueous suspension containing at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material, wherein the vessel is connected to the process flow line via an inlet for introducing water provided in the process flow line and an outlet for discharging the aqueous suspension containing at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material, or iv) is connected to the container.

[0028] In another embodiment of the device according to the invention, the container is a reactor tank, preferably a sealed reactor tank.

[0029] According to another embodiment of the device of the invention, the container includes a recirculation device configured such that air or process fluid is recirculated from the bottom to the top of the at least one submerged membrane module and / or the container through at least a portion of the surface of the at least one submerged membrane module.

[0030] According to one embodiment of the device of the present invention, the at least one device c)i) is configured to cause CO2 or pK a Acids with a value <5 are directly added to the water provided in the process flow line, or ii) connected to a container suitable for preparing an aqueous suspension S1 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate, wherein the container is connected to the process flow line by an inlet for introducing water provided in the process flow line and an outlet for discharging the aqueous suspension S1 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate, or iii) connected to the container, preferably connected to the recirculation device, which is adapted to recirculate air or process fluid through at least a portion of the surface of the at least one submerged membrane module and / or container in a bottom-to-top direction.

[0031] According to another embodiment of the invention, the at least one submerged membrane module a) has a pore size of <1 μm, and more preferably <0.1 μm, for example 0.04-0.9 μm, such as about 0.04 μm or 0.08 μm, and / or b) has a pore size of ≥10 l / (m 2 h), preferably 50-150 l / (m 2 h) and the optimal value is 80-150 l / (m 2 h) The flux, and / or c) is made of ceramic, polymer or other synthetic materials.

[0032] In another embodiment of the apparatus according to the invention, the at least one process flow line includes one or more main process flow lines.

[0033] According to one embodiment of the device of the present invention, the at least one process flow line includes two main process flow lines, preferably a main branch of the main process flow line and a side branch of the main process flow line.

[0034] According to another embodiment of the device of the present invention, the at least one dispensing unit is located in a side branch of the main process flow line.

[0035] According to another embodiment of the device of the invention, the main branch of the main process flow line and the side branch of the main process flow line are configured such that they merge together upstream of the container.

[0036] According to one embodiment of the device of the present invention, the at least one process flow line includes a main process flow line and one or more side process flow lines, preferably a main process flow line and one or two side process flow lines.

[0037] According to another embodiment of the device of the present invention, the at least one process flow line includes a main process flow line and two side process flow lines, preferably a main branch of the side process flow line and a side branch of the side process flow line.

[0038] According to another embodiment of the device of the present invention, the at least one dispensing unit is located in the process flow line on that side, or, if present, in the branch of the process flow line on that side.

[0039] According to one embodiment of the device of the present invention, the main branch of the side process flow line and the side branch of the side process flow line are configured such that they merge together upstream of the container.

[0040] According to another embodiment of the device of the invention, the main process flow line and the side process flow line are configured such that they are merged together downstream of the container.

[0041] According to another embodiment of the device of the present invention, the device includes an alkali dosing device downstream of the container for introducing alkali into an aqueous solution S2 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate.

[0042] According to one embodiment of the device of the present invention, the device includes an alkali dosing device for introducing alkali into the downstream main process flow line at the location where the side process flow line and the main process flow line are combined, preferably for introducing alkali into a mixture of an aqueous solution S2 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate and water in the main process flow line.

[0043] For the purposes of this invention, the following terms shall have the following meanings.

[0044] The term "alkaline earth metal carbonate material" can refer to a material containing at least 50.0% by weight of alkaline earth metal carbonate, based on the total dry weight of the alkaline earth metal carbonate material.

[0045] In the context of this invention, "calcium carbonate-containing material" refers to a material that serves as a source of calcium carbonate, preferably selected from ground calcium carbonate, precipitated calcium carbonate, surface-reacted calcium carbonate, dolomite, and mixtures thereof.

[0046] As used in this invention, "mineralization" refers to the addition of essential mineral ions and alkalinity to water that is completely devoid of minerals or contains insufficient amounts of minerals or alkalinity to obtain palatable water. Mineralization can be achieved by adding, at least as the sole ingredient, a specific alkaline earth metal carbonate such as calcium carbonate to the water to be treated. Optionally, for example, to obtain health-related benefits and ensure adequate intake of certain essential minerals and trace elements, additional substances such as magnesium salts may be mixed with or combined with alkaline earth metal carbonates such as calcium carbonate and subsequently added to the water during the mineralization process. According to national guidelines on human health and drinking water quality, the mineralized product may contain additional minerals selected from magnesium sulfate, potassium or sodium, potassium bicarbonate, sodium bicarbonate, or other minerals containing essential trace elements and mixtures thereof. Preferably, the mineralized product contains additional minerals selected from magnesium sulfate, potassium bicarbonate, sodium bicarbonate, and mixtures thereof.

[0047] As used in this invention, the term "stabilization" refers to increasing mineral content and alkalinity to neutralize or remove residual "corrosive" carbon dioxide and / or raising pH to achieve a stable and balanced final water quality. This stabilization is preferably achieved by stripping corrosive carbon dioxide, adding alkali to the mineralized water obtained by the apparatus of this invention, or a combination of both.

[0048] The expression "CO2 efficiency" in the context of this invention refers to the ratio of CO2 (in the feed water initially provided in the process flow line and additional CO2 provided by at least one device c) in the method carried out in the apparatus (measured in mmol / L) to the amount of alkaline earth metal carbonate (provided by the at least one dosing device) that is converted into alkaline earth metal bicarbonate as the alkaline earth metal carbonate from the feed water provided in the process flow line increases (to the aqueous solution S2 generated in the container of the apparatus of the invention)

[0049] The expression "acidified" or "acid" in the context of this invention relates to the Brønsted-Lowry theory and therefore to H3O. +Ion donor. Furthermore, the pH of the acid can be >7, for example, in the range >7 to 7.5, provided there is a suitable corresponding base to accept the H3O supplied by the acid. + ion.

[0050] For the purposes of this invention, "pK" a The pK value represents the acid dissociation constant associated with a given ionizable hydrogen atom in a given acid, and indicates the degree to which this hydrogen atom is naturally dissociated from this acid at equilibrium in water at a given temperature. a Values ​​can be found in reference materials such as: Harris, DC, "Quantitative Chemical Analysis: 3rd Edition", 1991, WH Freeman & Co. (USA), ISBN 0-7167-2170-8. pK a The pK value can be determined using existing technical methods well known to those skilled in the art. a The value depends on the temperature, unless otherwise expressly stated, according to the invention pK a The value involves 25 o The temperature of C.

[0051] In the context of this invention, the term "downstream" refers to a position following another unit of the device.

[0052] In the context of this invention, the term "upstream" refers to a position preceding another unit of the device.

[0053] When the term "comprising" is used in this specification and claims, it does not exclude other elements. For the purposes of this invention, the term "consisting of" is considered a preferred embodiment of the term "comprising of". If a group is defined below as including at least a certain number of embodiments, this is also understood to disclose a group that preferably consists only of these embodiments.

[0054] When discussing singular nouns, the use of indefinite or definite articles such as "a," "an," or "the" includes the plural form of the noun, unless otherwise specified in some cases.

[0055] Terms such as “obtainable” or “definable” and “obtained” or “defined” are used interchangeably. This means, for example, that unless the context explicitly indicates otherwise, the term “obtainable” does not imply that an embodiment must be obtained through a sequence of steps following the term “obtainable,” although the terms “obtainable” or “defined” always include such limiting understanding as a preferred embodiment.

[0056] The inventors of this invention have unexpectedly discovered that this apparatus enables those skilled in the art to prepare aqueous solutions containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate. The inventors have also unexpectedly discovered that this apparatus improves the CO2 consumption efficiency of the apparatus or the methods performed therein. Furthermore, this apparatus can reduce the total energy consumption of the apparatus and the corresponding methods. In addition, this apparatus can reduce sludge production, particularly compared to typical lime systems of the prior art.

[0057] The details and preferred embodiments of the apparatus of the present invention for preparing an aqueous solution comprising at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate will be described in more detail below. It should be understood that these technical details and embodiments are also applicable to the uses of the present invention, wherever applicable.

[0058] Therefore, the present invention provides an apparatus for preparing an aqueous solution containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate, the apparatus comprising:

[0059] a) Provide the process flow path for water.

[0060] (b) At least one dosing unit adapted to dose at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material into at least a portion of the water supplied in the process flow path to obtain an aqueous suspension containing at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material.

[0061] c) At least one suitable for converting CO2 or pK a An apparatus for dispensing an acid with a pH < 5 into at least a portion of the water supplied in the process flow path or into an aqueous suspension containing at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material, for obtaining an aqueous suspension S1 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate, and

[0062] d) A container connected to the at least one process flow line via an inlet, wherein the container

[0063] i) is configured such that at least one submerged membrane module is located in the container for filtering at least a portion of the aqueous suspension S1 by passing it through the at least one submerged membrane module to obtain an aqueous solution S2 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate, and

[0064] ii) Includes at least one outlet for releasing an aqueous solution S2 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate from the container.

[0065] The apparatus of the present invention is applicable to any method for preparing an aqueous solution containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate. For example, the apparatus is suitable for preparing an aqueous solution containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate suitable for mineralization and / or stabilization of water.

[0066] The term "aqueous" solution refers to a system in which the aqueous solvent comprises water or preferably is composed of water. However, this term does not exclude the inclusion of a small amount of at least one water-miscible organic solvent selected from methanol, ethanol, acetone, acetonitrile, tetrahydrofuran, and mixtures thereof in the aqueous solvent. Preferably, the aqueous solvent comprises at least 80.0% by weight, preferably at least 90.0% by weight, more preferably at least 95.0% by weight, and even more preferably at least 99.0% by weight of water based on the total weight of the aqueous solvent. For example, the aqueous solvent is composed of water.

[0067] In the context of this invention, the term "aqueous solution" refers to a system comprising an aqueous solvent and particles of alkaline earth metal carbonates and / or alkaline earth metal bicarbonates, wherein the particles of alkaline earth metal carbonates and / or alkaline earth metal bicarbonates are dissolved in the aqueous solvent. The term "dissolved" in the context of this invention refers to a system in which no discrete solid particles are observed in the aqueous solvent.

[0068] In the context of this invention, the term "at least one" alkaline earth metal bicarbonate means that the alkaline earth metal bicarbonate comprises one or more alkaline earth metal bicarbonates, preferably consisting of one or more alkaline earth metal bicarbonates.

[0069] In one embodiment of the invention, the at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate comprises one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate, preferably consisting of one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate. Alternatively, the at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate comprises two or more alkaline earth metal bicarbonates, preferably consisting of two or more alkaline earth metal bicarbonates. For example, the at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate comprises two alkaline earth metal bicarbonates, preferably consisting of two alkaline earth metal bicarbonates.

[0070] Preferably, the at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate comprises an alkaline earth metal bicarbonate, more preferably it is composed of an alkaline earth metal bicarbonate.

[0071] In one embodiment of the invention, the at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate is selected from calcium bicarbonate, magnesium bicarbonate, and mixtures thereof. Preferably, the at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate comprises calcium bicarbonate, and more preferably is composed of calcium bicarbonate.

[0072] a): Process flow line for providing water

[0073] According to device a) of the present invention, the device includes a process flow line for providing water.

[0074] It should be understood that the process flow path is preferably formed of pipes, conduits, and other such articles suitable for coupling other units of the apparatus (e.g., the at least one dosing unit, at least one device c, and the container) to achieve fluid communication between units, i.e., the flow of fluid, such as the flow of a suspension, from one unit of the apparatus of the present invention to another. The process flow path can be any type of pipe, conduit, and other such articles known to those skilled in the art, and is generally used for coupling units.

[0075] The water supplied in this process flow line can come from various sources, including distilled water, tap water, industrial water, desalinated water such as desalinated seawater, brackish water, treated wastewater, water treated by reverse osmosis, or natural soft water such as groundwater, surface water, or rainfall. It may also contain 10-2000 mg / L of NaCl. Preferably, the water supplied in this process flow line is desalinated water, such as permeate or distillate obtained from a desalination process.

[0076] In one embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention, the water provided in the process flow line is water to be mineralized. That is, the water provided in the process flow line is water that is completely free of minerals or contains insufficient amounts of alkalinity.

[0077] The water supplied in this process flow can be pretreated. Pretreatment may be necessary, for example, when the water originates from surface water, groundwater, or rainwater. For instance, to meet drinking water standards, water needs to be treated using chemical or physical techniques to remove contaminants such as organic matter or unwanted minerals. For example, ozonation can be used as a first pretreatment step, followed by coagulation, flocculation, or sedimentation as a second treatment step. For example, iron (III) salts such as FeClSO4 or FeCl3, or aluminum salts such as AlCl3, Al2(SO4)3, or polyaluminum can be used as flocculants. The flocculated material can be removed from the water, for example, through a sand filter or a multi-layer filter. Other water purification methods that can be used for pretreatment of water are described, for example, in EP 1 975 310, EP 1982 759, EP 1 974 807, or EP 1 974 806.

[0078] If seawater or brackish water is supplied in this process flow path, it is first pumped out of the sea via a subsurface intake such as a well or an open ocean intake, and then undergoes physical pretreatment such as screening, sedimentation, or desanding. Depending on the desired water quality, additional treatment steps such as coagulation and flocculation may be necessary to reduce potential fouling on the membrane. The pretreated seawater or brackish water can then be distilled, for example, by multi-stage flash distillation, multi-effect distillation, or membrane filtration such as nanofiltration or reverse osmosis, to remove residual particles and dissolved substances.

[0079] It should be noted that the water supplied in this process flow line is preferably supplied in a main process flow line (17) and one or more side process flow lines (15).

[0080] That is, a portion of the water supplied in this process flow line is supplied in the main process flow line (17), and the remainder of the water is supplied in one or more side process flow lines (15). Thus, the main process flow line (17) and the one or more side process flow lines (15) are connected to each other, preferably, the one or more side process flow lines (15) are connected to the main process flow line (17) (through its inlet and outlet).

[0081] The process flow path preferably includes a main process flow path (17) and one or more side process flow paths (15). More preferably, the at least one process flow path includes a main process flow path (17) and one or two side process flow paths (15). For example, the at least one process flow path includes a main process flow path (17) and a side process flow path (15).

[0082] If the main process flow line (17) and the one or more side process flow lines (15) are combined after the aqueous solution S2 is obtained in the container (preferably reactor tank (1)), the process flow line is considered to be the side process flow line (15).

[0083] Therefore, the main process flow line (17) and the side process flow line (15) are preferably configured such that they merge together downstream of the container.

[0084] If the process flow path includes two or more side process flow paths (15), then the two or more side process flow paths (15) may include a main branch (15a) of the side process flow path and one or more side branches (15b) of the side process flow path. For example, two side process flow paths (15) include a main branch (15a) of the side process flow path and a side branch (15b) of the side process flow path.

[0085] To understand, the two or more side process flow lines (15) can be branched into side branches (15b) of the side process flow line, which provide water for preparing an aqueous suspension or aqueous suspension S1 containing at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material, and a main branch (15a) of the side process flow line, which provides water for diluting the aqueous suspension or aqueous suspension S1 containing at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material prepared in the side branch (15b) of the side process flow line. In other words, the side branch (15b) of the side process flow line provides water for the aqueous suspension or aqueous suspension S1 containing alkaline earth metal carbonate material, while the main branch (15a) of the side process flow line provides water directly in the container (preferably the reactor tank (1)).

[0086] Therefore, if the main branch (15a) of the side process flow line and the one or more side branches are combined before the aqueous suspension or aqueous suspension S1 containing alkaline earth metal carbonate material is guided into the container (preferably reactor tank (1)), then the side branch is considered to be a side branch (15b) of the side process flow line. That is, the aqueous suspension or aqueous suspension S1 containing alkaline earth metal carbonate material is prepared in the side branch (15b) of the side process flow line and then guided into the main branch (15a) of the side process flow line, for example, to dilute the aqueous suspension or aqueous suspension S1 containing alkaline earth metal carbonate material, and then the diluted aqueous suspension or aqueous suspension S1 containing alkaline earth metal carbonate material is guided into the container (preferably reactor tank (1)) via the main branch (15a) of the side process flow line.

[0087] Therefore, the main branch (15a) and the side branch (15b) of the process flow line on this side are preferably configured such that they merge together upstream of the container.

[0088] Alternatively, the water supplied in the at least one process flow line is supplied only in the main process flow line (17). That is, the device does not include at least one side process flow line. Therefore, in one embodiment, the process flow line includes one or more main process flow lines (17). Preferably, the process flow line consists of one or more main process flow lines (17).

[0089] In one embodiment, the process flow path includes two or more main process flow paths (17). Preferably, the main process flow path (17) may include a main branch (17a) of the main process flow path and one or more side branches (17b) of the main process flow path.

[0090] For example, two main process flow lines (17) include a main branch (17a) of the main process flow line and a side branch (17b) of the main process flow line.

[0091] To understand, the process flow line (17) can be branched into a side branch (17b) of the main process flow line, which provides water for preparing an aqueous suspension or aqueous suspension S1 containing alkaline earth metal carbonate materials, and a main branch (17a) of the main process flow line, which provides water for diluting the aqueous suspension or aqueous suspension S1 containing alkaline earth metal carbonate materials prepared in the side branch (17b) of the main process flow line. In other words, the side branch (17b) of the main process flow line provides water for the aqueous suspension or aqueous suspension S1 containing alkaline earth metal carbonate materials, while the main branch (17a) of the main process flow line provides water directly in the container (preferably the reactor tank (1)).

[0092] It should be noted that if the main branch (17a) of the main process flow line and the one or more side branches are combined before the aqueous suspension or aqueous suspension S1 of the alkaline earth metal carbonate material is guided into the container (preferably reactor tank (1)), the side branch is considered to be a side branch (17b) of the main process flow line. That is, the aqueous suspension or aqueous suspension S1 of the alkaline earth metal carbonate material is prepared in the side branch (17b) of the main process flow line and then guided into the main branch (17a) of the main process flow line, for example, to dilute the aqueous suspension or aqueous suspension S1 of the alkaline earth metal carbonate material, and then the diluted aqueous suspension or aqueous suspension S1 of the alkaline earth metal carbonate material is guided into the container (preferably reactor tank (1)) via the main branch (17a) of the main process flow line.

[0093] Therefore, the main branch (17a) and the side branch (17b) of the main process flow line are preferably configured such that they merge together upstream of the container.

[0094] b): A dispensing unit for at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material

[0095] According to the device of the present invention (b), the device includes at least one dosing unit (25) adapted to dosing at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material into at least a portion of the water provided in the process flow path for obtaining an aqueous suspension containing at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material.

[0096] In the context of this invention, the term "at least one" dispensing unit means that the device includes one or more dispensing units. For example, the device includes one or two, more preferably one dispensing unit.

[0097] The at least one dosing unit can be any type of dosing unit known to those skilled in the art and typically used for dosing alkaline earth metal carbonate materials into water flow or directly into a tank.

[0098] The at least one dosing unit is configured to dispense at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material into at least a portion of the water provided in the process flow path. The at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material preferably comprises, more preferably, one or two such alkaline earth metal carbonate materials. For example, the at least one dosing unit is configured to dispense at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material into at least a portion of the water provided in the process flow path, the alkaline earth metal carbonate material comprising, more preferably, a calcium carbonate material.

[0099] According to one embodiment, the at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material, preferably a calcium carbonate material, is selected from precipitated calcium carbonate, modified calcium carbonate, ground calcium carbonate, and mixtures thereof. Preferably, the at least one dosing unit is configured to dose ground calcium carbonate into at least a portion of the water provided in the process flow path.

[0100] In the context of this invention, "ground calcium carbonate (GCC)" refers to calcium carbonate obtained from natural sources (including marble, chalk, or limestone) and processed through methods such as grinding, screening, and / or wet and / or dry fractionation (e.g., by a cyclone separator).

[0101] In the context of this invention, "precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC)" refers to a synthetic substance, typically obtained by precipitation in an aqueous environment following the reaction of carbon dioxide with lime, or by precipitating calcium and carbonate ions in water, or by precipitating calcium ions and carbonate ions (e.g., CaCl2 and Na2CO3) from solution. Precipitated calcium carbonate exists in three primary crystal forms: calcite, aragonite, and spheroidal aragonite, and for each of these forms, there are many different polymorphs (crystal inertia). Calcite has a triangular structure, which exhibits typical crystal inertia such as subtrigonal (S-PCC), orthorhombic (R-PCC), hexagonal prism, axial, colloidal (C-PCC), cubic, and prismatic (P-PCC). Aragonite has an orthorhombic structure, which exhibits typical crystal inertia of paired hexagonal prisms, as well as various classifications such as elongated prisms, curved leaf-like forms, steeply conical forms, chisel-shaped crystals, branched trees, and coral or worm-like forms.

[0102] In the context of this invention, "modified calcium carbonate" refers to surface-reacted natural calcium carbonate, which is obtained by the following method: In this method, natural calcium carbonate is reacted with pK at 25°C. a One or more H3O with a concentration of 2.5 or less. + The ion donor reacts with gaseous CO2 formed in situ and / or supplied from an external source, optionally in the presence of at least one aluminum silicate and / or at least one synthetic silicate and / or at least one calcium silicate and / or at least one monovalent salt silicate (such as sodium silicate and / or potassium silicate and / or lithium silicate) and / or at least one aluminum hydroxide and / or at least one sodium silicate and / or potassium silicate. Further details regarding the preparation of surface-reacted natural calcium carbonate are disclosed in WO 00 / 39222, WO 2004 / 083316 and US 2004 / 0020410 A1, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0103] The alkaline earth metal carbonate material (preferably calcium carbonate material) is preferably ground calcium carbonate (GCC).

[0104] For example, the at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material (preferably calcium carbonate material) is selected from marble, limestone, chalk, semi-burnt lime, calcined lime, dolomite-containing limestone, calcareous dolomite, semi-burnt dolomite, calcined dolomite, and precipitated alkaline earth metal carbonates such as precipitated calcium carbonate, for example having a calcite, aragonite, and / or spheroidal aragonite mineral crystal structure, for example from dehardening water by adding Ca(OH)2. The use of marble, limestone, and / or chalk is preferred because they are naturally occurring minerals and the turbidity of the final drinking water quality is ensured by using a clear aqueous solution containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate, which is produced by using these naturally occurring minerals. Natural marble deposits mostly contain acid-insoluble silicate impurities. However, when using the product prepared by the method of the present invention, such acid-insoluble substances (sometimes colored silicates) do not affect the final water quality in terms of turbidity.

[0105] Therefore, the at least one dosing unit is configured to dose ground calcium carbonate (GCC) selected from marble, limestone, chalk and mixtures thereof into at least a portion of the water provided in the process flow line.

[0106] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material comprises, preferably, the following particles: the particles are composed of alkaline earth metal carbonates in an amount of ≥40.0% by weight, preferably 90.0% by weight, more preferably ≥95.0% by weight, and most preferably ≥97.0% by weight, based on the total dry weight of the at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material.

[0107] For example, the at least one calcium carbonate-containing material comprises, preferably, the following particles: the particles are composed of calcium carbonate in an amount of ≥40.0% by weight, preferably 90.0% by weight, more preferably ≥95.0% by weight, and most preferably ≥97.0% by weight, based on the total dry weight of the at least one calcium carbonate-containing material.

[0108] More preferably, the at least one dosing unit is configured to dose micronized alkaline earth metal carbonate material (preferably calcium carbonate material) into at least a portion of the water provided in the process flow path.

[0109] For the purposes of this invention, the term "micronized" refers to particles with a size in the micrometer range, for example, particles with a size of 0.1-50.0 μm. Micronized particles can be obtained by techniques based on friction and / or impact (e.g., milling or grinding under wet or dry conditions). However, micronized particles can also be produced by any other suitable method, such as precipitation, rapid expansion of supercritical solutions, spray drying, sorting or differentiation of naturally occurring sand or mud, water filtration, sol-gel methods, spray reaction synthesis, flame synthesis, or liquid foaming synthesis.

[0110] For example, the at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material (preferably a calcium carbonate material) has a median weight particle size of 0.1-50.0 µm, preferably 0.2-25.0 µm, more preferably 0.3-10.0 µm, and most preferably 0.5-5.0 µm. d 50 .

[0111] Throughout this document, the “particle size” of alkaline earth metal carbonate materials and other materials is described by their particle size distribution.

[0112] Here, value d x This refers to a diameter such that, relative to this diameter, x% of the weight of particles have a smaller than [a certain value]. d x The diameter. This means, for example, d 20 The value is a particle size such that 20% of the weight of all particles is less than this particle size. d 50 The value is therefore the weight-median particle size, meaning that 50% of the weight of all particles is greater than this particle size, and the remaining 50% is less than this particle size. For the purposes of this invention, unless otherwise specified, the particle size is defined as the weight-median particle size. d 50 . d 98 The value is a particle size in which 98% of the weight of all particles is less than this particle size. The particle size is determined using a Sedigraph™ 5100 or 5120 from Micromeritics Instrument Corporation. The methods and instruments are known to those skilled in the art and are commonly used to determine the particle size of fillers and pigments. Measurements are performed in an aqueous solution of 0.1% by weight of Na₄P₂O₇. The sample is dispersed using a high-speed stirrer and ultrasonication.

[0113] In one embodiment of the invention, the alkaline earth metal carbonate material (preferably a calcium carbonate material) has a content of 0.01 to 200.0 m. 2 / g and preferably 1.0 to 100.0 m 2 The BET specific surface area per g was measured by nitrogen adsorption using the BET isotherm (ISO 9277:2010).

[0114] Additionally or optionally, the at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material (preferably a calcium carbonate material) may contain 0.02-50.0% by weight, 0.03-25.0% by weight, or 0.05-10.0% by weight of an HCl-insoluble inclusion based on the total weight of the at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material (preferably a calcium carbonate material). Preferably, the HCl-insoluble inclusion of the at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material does not exceed 1.0% by weight based on the total weight of calcium carbonate. The HCl-insoluble inclusion may be, for example, a mineral such as quartz, silicate, or mica.

[0115] In one embodiment, the at least one dosing unit is configured to add the alkaline earth metal carbonate material (preferably calcium carbonate material) in dry or aqueous form to at least a portion of the water supplied in the process flow line.

[0116] If the at least one dosing unit is configured to add the alkaline earth metal carbonate material (preferably calcium carbonate material) in a dry form to at least a portion of the water provided in the process flow line, then the at least one dosing unit is configured to dose the alkaline earth metal carbonate material (preferably calcium carbonate material) in powder or granule form to at least a portion of the water provided in the process flow line.

[0117] The term "dry" in relation to the at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material (preferably calcium carbonate material) is understood to mean a material having less than 0.3% water by weight relative to the weight of the at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material. The water percentage is determined according to a Coulometric Karl Fischer measurement method, wherein the at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material is heated to 220°C and the water content, released as steam and separated using a nitrogen flow (100 ml / min), is determined in a Coulometric Karl Fischer unit.

[0118] If the at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material is dispensed in dry form into at least a portion of the water provided in the process flow line using the at least one dispensing unit, the dried alkaline earth metal carbonate material can be dispensed into a slurry compressing (make-down) system, which is then combined with the water in the process flow line.

[0119] If the at least one dosing unit is configured to add the alkaline earth metal carbonate material (preferably calcium carbonate material) in an aqueous form to at least a portion of the water provided in the process flow line, then the at least one dosing unit is configured to dose the alkaline earth metal carbonate material (preferably calcium carbonate material) in the form of an aqueous suspension to at least a portion of the water provided in the process flow line. The aqueous suspension preferably has a solids content of 0.01-20.0% by weight, more preferably 1.0-15.0% by weight, and most preferably 2.0-10.0% by weight, based on the total weight of the suspension. In this embodiment, the at least one dosing unit is preferably configured such that the aqueous suspension is generated on-site by using a highly concentrated slurry without any dispersant, the slurry having a solids content of, for example, 30.0-60.0% by weight, for example, about 40% by weight, or by using, for example, a solid form such as powder or granules, of the alkaline earth metal carbonate material (preferably calcium carbonate material).

[0120] For the purposes of this invention, "suspension" or "slurry" refers to a system comprising a solvent (i.e., an aqueous solvent) and particles containing alkaline earth metal carbonate materials and / or alkaline earth metal bicarbonates, wherein at least a portion of the alkaline earth metal carbonate materials and / or alkaline earth metal bicarbonate particles are present in the aqueous solvent as insoluble solids. This terminology does not preclude the possibility that a portion of the alkaline earth metal carbonate materials and / or alkaline earth metal bicarbonate particles are dissolved in the aqueous solvent.

[0121] In addition to the at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material (preferably calcium carbonate material), the suspension containing at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material (preferably calcium carbonate material) may contain additional micronized minerals. According to one embodiment, the suspension containing at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material (preferably calcium carbonate material) may contain micronized calcium magnesium carbonate such as dolomitic limestone, calcareous dolomite or semi-burnt dolomite, magnesium oxide such as calcined dolomite, magnesium sulfate, potassium bicarbonate, sodium bicarbonate and / or other minerals containing necessary trace elements.

[0122] For example, the at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material (preferably calcium carbonate material) is dispensed into at least a portion of the water provided in the process flow line using the at least one dispensing unit (25) and provided in a storage container (13) for solid materials. Therefore, the at least one dispensing unit (25) is preferably connected to the storage container (13) for solid materials.

[0123] The storage container (13) can be any type of storage container known to those skilled in the art and typically used for storing alkaline earth metal carbonate materials.

[0124] Additionally or alternatively, the at least one dispensing unit (25) is connected to a container (14) suitable for preparing a suspension containing at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material. In one embodiment, the at least one dispensing unit (25) is preferably connected to a storage container (13) for solid materials, which is connected to the container (14) suitable for preparing a suspension containing at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material.

[0125] The container (14) can be any type of container known to those skilled in the art and typically used to prepare a suspension containing at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material.

[0126] Preferably, the container (14) is connected to the process flow line via an inlet for introducing water provided in the process flow line and an outlet for releasing an aqueous suspension containing at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material.

[0127] For example, the container (14) is connected to a side process flow line (15), or if the side process flow line includes a side branch, the container (14) is preferably connected to a side branch (15b) of the side process flow line, such that water supplied in the side process flow line (15) or the side branch (15b) of the side process flow line is used to prepare a suspension containing at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material (preferably calcium carbonate material). The suspension (16) containing at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material (preferably calcium carbonate material) is then preferably transferred to a container (preferably a reactor tank (1)). If the side process flow line (15) includes a side branch, the side branch (15b) of the side process flow line is preferably connected to the main branch (15a) of the side process flow line upstream of the container (preferably a reactor tank (1)). Therefore, for example, the at least one dispensing unit connected to the storage container (13) and the container (14) is located in the side process flow line (15), or if the side process flow line includes a side branch, for example, the at least one dispensing unit connected to the storage container (13) and the container (14) is located in the side branch (15b) of the side process flow line.

[0128] Alternatively, the alkaline earth metal carbonate material can be mixed with water from the process flow line (15) in a container (preferably reactor tank (1)). That is, the at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material (preferably calcium carbonate material) can be provided in a storage container (13) directly connected to the container, preferably connected to the reactor tank (1).

[0129] Therefore, the at least one dosing unit can be connected to a container (preferably a reactor tank (1)). In one embodiment, the at least one dosing unit (25) is connected to a storage container (13), which is directly connected to the container (preferably a reactor tank (1)).

[0130] In another alternative embodiment, the at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material (preferably calcium carbonate material) is directly added to the water supplied in the process flow line.

[0131] Therefore, the at least one dosing unit (25) can be configured to allow the at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material to be directly added to the water supplied in the process flow line. In one embodiment, the at least one dosing unit (25) is connected to a storage container (13), and the at least one dosing unit is configured to allow the at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material to be directly added to the water supplied in the process flow line.

[0132] For example, the at least one dosing unit (25) is configured such that the at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material is directly doped into the water provided in the side process flow line (15), or if the side process flow line includes a side branch, the at least one dosing unit is configured such that the at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material is directly doped into the water provided in the side branch (15b) of the side process flow line. It should be understood that the water provided in the side process flow line (15) or the side branch (15b) of the side process flow line is used to prepare a suspension containing at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material (preferably a calcium carbonate material).

[0133] Therefore, it can be understood that the at least one dispensing unit (25) is located in the side process flow line. If the side process flow line includes the main branch of the side process flow line and the side branch of the side process flow line, then the at least one dispensing unit is located in the side branch of the side process flow line.

[0134] If the at least one process flow line consists of the main process flow line (17), i.e. does not include one or more side process flow lines (15), then the at least one dosing unit (25) is preferably connected to a storage container (13) for solid materials, which is connected to a container (14) suitable for preparing a suspension containing at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material.

[0135] Preferably, the container (14) is connected to the main process flow line (17), or if the main process flow line includes a side branch, the container (14) is preferably connected to a side branch (17b) of the main process flow line, such that water supplied in the main process flow line (17) or the side branch (17b) of the main process flow line is used to prepare an aqueous suspension S1 containing at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material (preferably calcium carbonate material). The suspension (16) containing at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material (preferably calcium carbonate material) is then preferably transferred to a container (preferably reactor tank (1)). If the main process flow line (17) includes a side branch, the side branch (17b) of the main process flow line is preferably connected to the main branch (17a) of the main process flow line upstream of the container (preferably reactor tank (1)). Therefore, for example, the at least one dispensing unit connected to the storage container (13) and the container (14) is located in the main process flow line (17), or if the main process flow line includes a side branch, for example, the at least one dispensing unit connected to the storage container (13) and the container (14) is located in a side branch (17b) of the main process flow line.

[0136] Alternatively, the alkaline earth metal carbonate material can be mixed with water from the main process flow line (17) in a container (preferably a reactor tank (1)). That is, the at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material (preferably a calcium carbonate material) can be provided in a storage container (13) directly connected to the container, preferably connected to the reactor tank (1).

[0137] Therefore, the at least one dosing unit can be connected to a container (preferably a reactor tank (1)). In one embodiment, the at least one dosing unit (25) is connected to a storage container (13), which is directly connected to the container (preferably a reactor tank (1)).

[0138] In another alternative embodiment, the at least one dosing unit (25) is configured such that the at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material is directly doped into the water provided in the main process flow line (17), or if the main process flow line includes a side branch, the at least one dosing unit is configured such that the at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material is directly doped into the water provided in the side branch (17b) of the main process flow line. It should be understood that the water provided in the main process flow line (17) or the side branch (15b) of the main process flow line is used to prepare an aqueous suspension S1 containing at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material (preferably calcium carbonate material). In this embodiment, the main branch (17a) and the side branch (17b) of the main process flow line are configured such that they merge together upstream of the container.

[0139] Therefore, it can be understood that if the process flow line consists of the main process flow line (17), then the at least one dispensing unit (25) is located in the main process flow line. If the main process flow line includes a main branch (17a) and a side branch (17b) of the main process flow line, then the at least one dispensing unit is located in the side branch (17b) of the main process flow line.

[0140] Therefore, the at least one dosing unit is preferably located downstream of the source of water provided in the process flow line. If the process flow line includes the main process flow line (17) and the side process flow line (15), the at least one dosing unit is preferably located downstream of the side process flow line (15), that is, after the process flow line is branched to form the main process flow line (17) and the side process flow line (15).

[0141] If the main process flow line (17) or the side process flow line (15) includes branches, then the at least one dispensing unit (25) is preferably located downstream of the side branch (17b) of the main process flow line or the side branch (15b) of the side process flow line, that is, after the main process flow line (17) or the side process flow line (15) is branched to form the respective side branch. Additionally or alternatively, the at least one dispensing unit (25) is preferably located upstream of the point where the side branch (17b) and the main branch (17a) of the main process flow line or the side branch (15b) and the main branch (15a) of the side process flow line merge together.

[0142] Preferably, the at least one dosing unit (25) is located upstream of the container (more preferably the reactor tank (1)).

[0143] c): Devices used for dispensing CO2 or acid.

[0144] According to the invention, device c), the device includes at least one suitable for discharging CO2 or pK a An apparatus for dispensing an acid with a value <5 into at least a portion of the water provided in the process flow or into an aqueous suspension containing at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material, for obtaining an aqueous suspension S1 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate.

[0145] The term "at least one" in the context of this invention applies to the addition of CO2 or pK. a A device for acid with a pH value <5 refers to a device that includes one or more components suitable for dispensing CO2 or pK. a An apparatus for dispensing acids with a pH value < 5. For example, the apparatus includes one or two, more preferably one, suitable for dispensing CO2 or pK. a An apparatus for acids with a value < 5.

[0146] The at least one device c) can be a typical device known to those skilled in the art for discharging CO2 or pK. a Acids with a pH value < 5 can be added to water in any type of apparatus.

[0147] The at least one device is configured to dissolve CO2 or pK a An acid with a value <5 is added to at least a portion of the water supplied in the process flow path.

[0148] The at least one device is preferably suitable for dispensing carbon dioxide, selected from gaseous carbon dioxide, liquid carbon dioxide, solid carbon dioxide, and gaseous mixtures of carbon dioxide with other gases, such as flue gas containing carbon dioxide discharged from industrial processes (such as combustion processes, calcination processes, or similar processes). Preferably, the carbon dioxide is gaseous carbon dioxide. When using a gaseous mixture of carbon dioxide and other gases, the presence of carbon dioxide ranges from 90.0% to about 99.0% by volume, and preferably from 95.0% to 99.0% by volume, based on the total volume of the gaseous mixture. For example, carbon dioxide is present at least 97.0% by volume based on the total volume of the gaseous mixture.

[0149] Alternatively, the at least one device is suitable for dispensing at 25°C with pK a Acids with a pK value <5, preferably <4. For example, the at least one device is preferably suitable for dispensing acids selected from sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid, nitric acid, or citric acid, and mixtures thereof. In one embodiment, the at least one device is suitable for dispensing acids selected from: acids having a pK value of <5, preferably <4. a An acid with a pH value less than or equal to 0, and more particularly selected from sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid, or mixtures thereof. Alternatively, the at least one apparatus is suitable for dispensing acids that are salts having an acidic pH, such as alkali metal hydrogen salts, such as NaHSO4 and / or KHSO4.

[0150] Preferably, the at least one device is suitable for dispensing CO2.

[0151] In one implementation, CO2 or pK a Acid with a value <5 is added to container (1). Therefore, the at least one device c) is preferably connected to the container (more preferably reactor tank (1)).

[0152] In one embodiment, the container (preferably reactor tank (1)) is connected to a recirculation device containing a recirculated airflow (5). For example, the recirculation device is arranged such that the airflow recirculates from the bottom to the top of the container (preferably reactor tank (1)). In one embodiment, the at least one device c) is configured to allow CO2 or pK to be recirculated. aAcid with a value <5 is injected into the recirculation air stream (5) of the recirculation device. That is, at least one device c) is configured such that CO2 or pK a Acid with a value <5 is injected into the air or process fluid of the recirculation air stream (5) of the recirculation unit.

[0153] Therefore, the container (preferably reactor tank (1)) may include a recirculation device configured such that air or process fluid is recirculated from the bottom to the top of the at least one submerged membrane module and / or the container (preferably reactor tank (1)) through at least a portion of the surface of the at least one submerged membrane module.

[0154] Alternatively, the at least one device may be configured to cause CO2 or pK a Acids with a pH value < 5 are directly added to the water supplied in the process flow line.

[0155] For example, the at least one device can be configured to cause CO2 or pK a Acids with a value <5 are directly added to the water supplied in the process flow line (15) on this side, or if the process flow line includes a side branch, the at least one device may be configured to cause CO2 or pK to be added directly to the water supplied in the process flow line (15). a Acids with a value <5 are directly added to the water supplied in the main branch (15a) or side branch (15b) of the process flow line on this side.

[0156] Therefore, it can be understood that the at least one device may be located in the side process flow line (15). If the side process flow line (15) includes a main branch (15a) of the side process flow line and one or more side branches (15b) of the side process flow line, then the at least one device is preferably located in one of the side branches (15b) of the side process flow line.

[0157] In another alternative embodiment, the at least one device may be configured to cause CO2 or pK a Acids with a value <5 are directly added to the water supplied in the main process flow line (17), or if the main process flow line includes side branches, the at least one device may be configured to cause CO2 or pK to be added directly to the water supplied in the main process flow line (17). a Acids with a value <5 are directly added to the water supplied in the main branch (17a) of the main process flow line or to the water supplied in the side branch (17b) of the main process flow line.

[0158] Therefore, it can be understood that if the process flow line consists of the main process flow line (17), then the at least one device may be located in the main process flow line. If the main process flow line includes a main branch (17a) of the main process flow line and one or more side branches (17b) of the main process flow line, then the at least one device is preferably located in one of the side branches (17b) of the main process flow line.

[0159] In another alternative embodiment, the at least one device is connected to a container (14) suitable for preparing an aqueous suspension S1 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate. Preferably, the container (14) is connected to the process flow line via an inlet for introducing water provided in the process flow line and an outlet for discharging the aqueous suspension S1 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate.

[0160] In one embodiment, the container (14) is therefore preferably connected to the at least one dispensing unit (which is connected, for example, to the storage container (13) and the at least one device c). Alternatively, the at least one dispensing unit connected to the storage container (13) is connected to a container (14a), and the at least one device c) is connected to another container (14b). In this case, the at least one device c) is preferably located downstream of the at least one dispensing unit.

[0161] Therefore, the at least one device c) and the receiving vessel (14) are preferably located in the side process flow line (15), or if the side process flow line includes a side branch, the at least one device c) and the receiving vessel (14) are located in a side branch (15b) of the side process flow line.

[0162] If the at least one process flow line consists of the main process flow line (17), i.e. does not include one or more side process flow lines (15), then the at least one device c) and the receiving vessel (14) are connected to the main process flow line (17), or if the main process flow line includes side branches, then the at least one device c) and the receiving vessel (14) are preferably connected to a side branch (17b) of the main process flow line.

[0163] Therefore, the at least one device c) is preferably located downstream of the source of water provided in the process flow line. If the process flow line includes a main process flow line (17) and a side process flow line (15), the at least one device c) is preferably located downstream of the side process flow line (15), that is, after the process flow line is branched to form the main process flow line (17) and the side process flow line (15).

[0164] If the main process flow line (17) or the side process flow line (15) includes branches, then the at least one device c) is preferably located downstream of a side branch of the main process flow line (17) or a side branch of the side process flow line (15), i.e., after the main process flow line (17) or the side process flow line (15) is branched to form the corresponding side branch.

[0165] Preferably, the at least one device c) is located upstream of the container (more preferably the reactor tank (1)).

[0166] Alternatively, the at least one device c) is connected to the container, more preferably to the recirculation device, which is adapted to recirculate air or process fluid from the at least one submerged membrane module and / or the container through at least a portion of the surface of the at least one submerged membrane module in a bottom-to-top direction.

[0167] d): Containers connected to this process flow line

[0168] According to the device of the present invention (d), the device includes a container connected to the at least one process flow line via an inlet.

[0169] The container can be any known to those skilled in the art and is typically used to mix water with at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material and CO2 or pK. a Any type of container for merging and / or mixing acids with a value <5. Preferably, the container is configured such that merging and / or mixing can be carried out under mixing and / or homogenization conditions.

[0170] For example, the container is a reactor tank (1). Such tanks are well known to those skilled in the art and are available from a wide range of suppliers.

[0171] Specifically, the container (preferably reactor tank (1)) can be configured such that the water supplied in the process flow path contains the at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material and CO2 or pK a Acids with a value <5 are combined in any order to, for example, obtain an aqueous suspension S1 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate.

[0172] In one embodiment, the container (preferably reactor tank (1)) may be configured such that the filling level (11) in the container (preferably reactor tank (1)) and / or the pressure (8) in the container (preferably reactor tank (1)) can be measured.

[0173] To understand this, the dissolution rate of the alkaline earth metal carbonate in the liquid phase (i.e., water) of the aqueous suspension containing at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material used to obtain a solution S1 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate depends on the amount of carbon dioxide or pK added.a The amount of acid with a pH value <5, but also depends on temperature, pH, pressure, the initial concentration of alkaline earth metal carbonates in the suspension, and the amount of carbon dioxide or pK. a The dosing rate of an acid with a value <5 (at 25°C) introduced into an aqueous suspension containing at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material.

[0174] Preferably, the container (preferably reactor tank (1)) is configured such that the concentration of carbon dioxide in the aqueous suspension S1 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate obtained in the container is 10-1500 mg / l, more preferably 20-1000 mg / l and most preferably 50-400 mg / l.

[0175] Additionally or alternatively, the container (preferably reactor tank (1)) may be configured such that the amount of CO2 used to produce 1 mol of at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate in the aqueous suspension S1 obtained in the container is 1.0-6.0 mol, preferably 1.0-3.0 mol and most preferably 1.0-2.0 mol.

[0176] It should be understood that the aqueous suspension S1 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate obtained in the container preferably has an alkaline earth metal concentration of 20-1000 mg / L, more preferably 50-600 mg / L, and most preferably 80-400 mg / L, calculated as alkaline earth metal bicarbonate. In one embodiment, the aqueous suspension S1 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate (calcium bicarbonate) obtained in the container has a calcium metal concentration of 20-1000 mg / L, more preferably 50-600 mg / L, and most preferably 80-400 mg / L, calculated as calcium bicarbonate.

[0177] As described above, an aqueous suspension S1 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate is obtained in the container (preferably reactor tank (1)).

[0178] The aqueous suspension S1 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate obtained in the container (preferably reactor tank (1)) also contains undissolved solid particles of the at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material, and therefore the aqueous suspension S1 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate undergoes a filtration step.

[0179] In view of this, the aqueous suspension S1 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate obtained in the container (preferably reactor tank (1)) preferably has a turbidity value greater than 10 NTU, and more preferably, the aqueous suspension S1 contains visible solids, i.e., it is opaque.

[0180] In the context of this invention, "turbidity" describes the obscurity or turbidity of a fluid caused by individual particles (suspended solids) that are not normally visible to the naked eye. Turbidity measurement is a critical test for water quality and can be performed using a turbidimeter. The turbidity unit used in this invention from a calibrated turbidimeter is defined as nephelometric turbidity units (NTU).

[0181] In one embodiment of the invention, the aqueous suspension S1 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate obtained in the container (preferably reactor tank (1)) preferably has a solid content of 0.01-10.0% by weight, more preferably 0.5-10.0% by weight and most preferably 1.2-8.0% by weight, based on the total weight of the aqueous suspension S1.

[0182] Therefore, a specific requirement of the device of the present invention is that the container (preferably reactor tank (1)) is configured such that the at least one submerged membrane module is located in the container for filtering at least a portion of the aqueous suspension S1 by passing the aqueous suspension S1 through the at least one submerged membrane module to obtain an aqueous solution S2 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate.

[0183] In one embodiment, water is mixed with at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material and CO2 or pK. a The merging and / or mixing of acids with a value <5, and the filtration of at least a portion of the aqueous suspension S1, can be carried out in the same container (preferably reactor tank (1)). Alternatively, water can be mixed with at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material and CO2 or pK. a The merging and / or mixing of acids with a value <5 can be carried out in one container (preferably reactor tank (1)), and the filtration of at least a portion of the aqueous suspension S1 can be carried out in another container (preferably reactor tank (1a)). In this embodiment, the container (preferably reactor tank (1a) in which at least a portion of the aqueous suspension S1 is filtered is located in which water is reacted with at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material and CO2 or pK. a Downstream of a container (preferably a reactor tank (1)) for merging and / or mixing acids with a value <5.

[0184] Considering the reduced total energy consumption and higher cost efficiency, preferably, water is mixed with at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material and CO2 or pK a The merging and / or mixing of acids with a value <5 and the filtration of at least a portion of the aqueous suspension S1 can be carried out in the same container (preferably reactor tank (1)). Therefore, the apparatus preferably includes a container, preferably reactor tank (1).

[0185] A specific requirement of the method of the present invention is that at least a portion of the aqueous suspension S1 is filtered through at least one submerged membrane module (2). Preferably, the entire amount of the aqueous suspension S1 is filtered through at least one submerged membrane module (2).

[0186] The container is thus configured such that at least one submerged membrane module (2) is located in the container (preferably reactor tank (1)).

[0187] The at least one submerged membrane module can be any type of submerged membrane module known to those skilled in the art and typically used for filtering sludge and aqueous suspensions containing minerals, pigments, and / or fillers. For example, submerged membrane modules from Toray Industries, Inc. can be used.

[0188] The at least one submerged membrane module (2) (i.e., the membrane) preferably has a pore size of <1 μm, and more preferably <0.1 μm, for example 0.04-0.9 μm, such as about 0.04 μm or 0.08 μm. The at least one submerged membrane module (2) is preferably made of ceramic, polymer, or other synthetic materials. For example, the at least one submerged membrane module (2) includes a membrane made of a material selected from: sintered materials, porous ceramics, synthetic polymers such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polysulfone, polyethylene sulfone, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), or Teflon. ® and mixtures thereof. In one embodiment, the at least one submerged membrane module (2) further comprises fibers or nonwoven fabrics, such as fibers or nonwoven fabrics made of materials selected from: synthetic polymers such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polyester or mixtures thereof.

[0189] It should be understood that the number of the at least one submerged membrane module (2) depends on the size of the equipment. Those skilled in the art will adjust the number of submerged membrane modules according to the specific equipment size used.

[0190] The at least one submerged membrane module (2) preferably has a high flux, i.e., a high flow rate per unit membrane area and time (flux = l / (m²)). 2 h). For example, the at least one submerged membrane module (2) has ≥10 l / (m 2 h), preferably 50-150 l / (m 2 h) and the optimal value is 80-150 l / (m 2 The flux of h).

[0191] Preferably, the at least one submerged membrane module (2) is arranged such that air or process fluid is recirculated (5) through at least a portion of the surface of the at least one submerged membrane module. This has the advantage that CO2 can be effectively introduced into the container (preferably reactor tank (1)) to improve the formation efficiency of the aqueous suspension S1 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate. Furthermore, this arrangement results in the cleaning of the at least one submerged membrane module (2) through cross-flow aeration, which reduces fouling of the at least one submerged membrane module (2). Additionally, this arrangement has the benefit of maintaining a homogeneous suspension and preventing the settling of undissolved particles.

[0192] In one embodiment, air or process fluid is recirculated (5) from the bottom to the top of the at least one submerged membrane module (2) and / or the container (preferably reactor tank (1)), preferably the at least one submerged membrane module (2) and the container (preferably reactor tank (1)) through at least a portion of the surface of the at least one submerged membrane module (2).

[0193] Therefore, the container preferably includes a recirculation device configured such that air or process fluid is recirculated (5) from the bottom to the top of the at least one submerged membrane module (2) and / or the container (preferably reactor tank (1)) through at least a portion of the surface of the at least one submerged membrane module (2).

[0194] It should be understood that CO2 or acid (4) is preferably added to air or process fluid that is recycled (5) through at least a portion of the surface of the at least one submerged membrane module (2).

[0195] If air or process fluid is recirculated through at least a portion of the surface of the at least one submerged membrane module, the container (preferably reactor tank (1)) is preferably sealed and the air at the top of the container (preferably reactor tank (1)) is used as feed and reintroduced (5) at the bottom of the container (preferably reactor tank (1)). Therefore, the container is preferably a sealed reactor tank (1).

[0196] It should be understood that the recirculation device is preferably independent of the side process flow line (15) or the main process flow line (17), that is, the inlet and outlet of the recirculation device are connected to the container (preferably reactor tank (1)) at different locations from the inlet and outlet of the side process flow line (15) or the main branch (15a) or the side branch (15b) of the side process flow line or the main process flow line (17) or the main branch (17a) or the side branch (17b) of the main process flow line.

[0197] A further requirement is that the container (preferably reactor tank (1)) is connected to the at least one process flow line via an inlet. Alternatively, the container (preferably reactor tank (1)) includes at least one outlet for releasing an aqueous solution S2 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate from the container (preferably reactor tank (1)). Therefore, the inlet connected to the at least one process flow line and the outlet for releasing the aqueous solution S2, or the container (preferably reactor tank (1)), are preferably independent of the inlet and outlet of the recirculation device, i.e., they are connected at different locations from each other. Therefore, preferably, the container (preferably reactor tank (1)) is configured such that the outlet for releasing the aqueous solution S2 is connected to the permeate side of the at least one submerged membrane module (2).

[0198] In one embodiment, the container (preferably reactor tank (1)) is configured such that the at least one submerged membrane module (2) can be cleaned.

[0199] For example, the container (preferably reactor tank (1)) is configured to allow backwashing of the at least one submerged membrane module.

[0200] In the context of this invention, the term “backwash” refers to the addition of water and / or chemicals from the other side of the at least one submerged membrane module (2), i.e. from the permeate side, to the feed side of the at least one submerged membrane module and / or container, for the purpose of cleaning the at least one submerged membrane module (2).

[0201] For example, backwashing of the at least one submerged membrane module (2) can be performed using water. If the method of the present invention includes backwashing of the at least one submerged membrane (2) using water, backwashing can be performed every 5-60 minutes, such as 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, CO2 or pK can be used. a An acid with a pH value <5 (at 25°C) is added to the water. In this implementation, backwashing can be performed once or twice a week.

[0202] It should be understood that this equipment can operate in batch mode, semi-continuous mode, or continuous mode.

[0203] The term “semi-continuous method” as used in this application refers to a method that operates in a continuous mode but with intermittent interruptions, such as for backwashing the at least one submerged membrane module (2).

[0204] The aqueous solution S2 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate obtained by the apparatus of the present invention preferably has a carbon dioxide concentration of 0.001-300 mg / L, more preferably 0.1-150 mg / L, and most preferably 0.5-50 mg / L.

[0205] It should be understood that the aqueous solution S2 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate obtained by the apparatus of the present invention preferably has an alkaline earth metal concentration of 20-1000 mg / L, calculated as alkaline earth metal bicarbonate. Preferably, the aqueous solution S2 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate obtained by the apparatus of the present invention has an alkaline earth metal concentration of 50-500 mg / L, and more preferably 80-300 mg / L, calculated as alkaline earth metal bicarbonate.

[0206] In one embodiment, the aqueous solution S2 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate obtained by the apparatus of the present invention contains calcium bicarbonate, and the solution has a calcium metal concentration of 20-1000 mg / L, preferably 50-500 mg / L, and more preferably 80-300 mg / L, calculated as calcium bicarbonate.

[0207] In another alternative embodiment, the aqueous solution S2 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate obtained by the apparatus of the present invention contains magnesium bicarbonate, and the solution has a magnesium metal concentration of 20-1000 mg / L, preferably 50-400 mg / L and more preferably 80-300 mg / L, calculated as magnesium bicarbonate.

[0208] Alternatively, the aqueous solution S2 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate obtained by the apparatus of the present invention contains calcium bicarbonate and magnesium bicarbonate, and the solution has a total calcium and magnesium metal concentration, calculated as calcium and magnesium bicarbonate, of 20-1000 mg / l, preferably 50-500 mg / l and more preferably 80-300 mg / l.

[0209] In one embodiment of the present invention, the aqueous solution S2 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate obtained by the apparatus of the present invention has a dissolved content of the at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate of 0.001-2.0% by weight, more preferably 0.001-0.05% by weight, and most preferably 0.001-0.03% by weight, based on the total weight of the aqueous solution.

[0210] Additionally or alternatively, the aqueous solution S2 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate obtained by the apparatus of the present invention preferably has a turbidity value of less than 0.5 NTU, and more preferably less than 0.3 NTU. For example, the aqueous solution S2 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate obtained by the apparatus of the present invention has a turbidity value of less than 0.2 NTU or less than 0.1 NTU.

[0211] It should be understood that the aqueous solution S2 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate obtained by the apparatus of the present invention preferably has a pH value of 6.1-8.9 and more preferably 6.5-8.5.

[0212] According to one embodiment, the aqueous solution S2 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate obtained by the apparatus of the present invention has a German hardness of 1-55°dH, preferably 3-30°dH, and most preferably 4.5-17°dH.

[0213] For the purposes of this invention, German hardness is expressed as "degree German hardness, °dH". In this respect, German hardness refers to the total amount of alkaline earth metal ions in an aqueous solution containing alkaline earth metal bicarbonates.

[0214] Preferably, the aqueous solution containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate obtained by the apparatus of the present invention has a German hardness that is at least 3°dH higher than that of the water supplied in the process flow line, more preferably at least 5°dH higher.

[0215] In one embodiment, the aqueous solution S2 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate obtained by the apparatus of the present invention is suitable as mineralized water. This is preferred if the apparatus does not include one or more side process flow lines (15). That is, if the apparatus only includes the main process flow line (17), the aqueous solution S2 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate obtained by the apparatus of the present invention is mineralized water.

[0216] Alternatively, the aqueous solution S2 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate obtained by the apparatus of the present invention is suitable for water mineralization. For example, the aqueous solution S2 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate obtained by the apparatus of the present invention is suitable for desalination or mineralization and / or stabilization of natural soft water. This is preferred if the apparatus includes one or more side process flow lines (15).

[0217] For example, an aqueous solution S2 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate is transferred from the process flow line (15) (9) to the main process flow line (17) through the device of the present invention for water mineralization.

[0218] Water that can be mineralized and / or stabilized by using an aqueous solution S2 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate obtained by the apparatus of the present invention can come from a variety of sources and can be selected from distilled water, industrial water, tap water, desalinated water such as desalinated seawater, brackish water or brine, treated wastewater or natural soft water such as groundwater, surface water or rainfall. Preferably, the water mineralized and / or stabilized by using an aqueous solution S2 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate obtained by the apparatus of the present invention is desalinated water, such as permeate or distillate obtained from a desalination process.

[0219] To neutralize any remaining "corrosive" carbon dioxide and / or increase the pH to obtain a stable and balanced final water quality, it is preferable to strip the corrosive carbon dioxide, add alkali to the mineralized water obtained by the apparatus of the present invention, or a combination of both.

[0220] Therefore, the device preferably includes an alkali dosing device downstream of the container (preferably reactor tank (1)) for introducing alkali into an aqueous solution S2 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate.

[0221] In one embodiment, the alkali dosing device is configured to dose alkali (preferably provided in water) into the main process flow line (17) downstream of the container (preferably reactor tank (1)) to adjust the pH of the mineralized water to the range of 7.0 to 9.0 and to form mineralized water having an alkaline earth metal concentration of 10-300 mg / L based on alkaline earth metal bicarbonate.

[0222] For example, the device includes an alkali dosing device for introducing alkali into the downstream main process flow line (17) where the side process flow line (15) and the main process flow line (17) are combined, preferably for introducing alkali into a mixture of an aqueous solution S2 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate and water in the main process flow line (17).

[0223] The alkali dosing device for introducing alkali is preferably configured to introduce alkali metal hydroxides and / or alkaline earth metal hydroxides. More preferably, the alkali dosing device is configured to introduce alkali, which is an alkali metal hydroxide and / or alkaline earth metal hydroxide, selected from calcium hydroxide and / or magnesium hydroxide and / or sodium hydroxide, such as calcium hydroxide or magnesium hydroxide or sodium hydroxide, such as calcium hydroxide.

[0224] For example, the alkali dosing device for introducing alkali is preferably configured to introduce median weight particle size. d 50 Alkaline earth metal hydroxides with a micrometer size of 0.1-100.0 μm, preferably 0.2-50.0 μm, more preferably 0.3-25.0 μm, and most preferably 0.5-10.0 μm.

[0225] In one embodiment of the invention, the alkali, as an alkaline earth metal hydroxide, has a concentration of 0.01 to 200.0 m. 2 / g and preferably 1.0 to 100.0 m 2 The BET specific surface area per g was measured by nitrogen adsorption using the BET isotherm (ISO 9277:2010).

[0226] The alkali dosing device for introducing alkali is preferably configured to introduce alkali metal hydroxides and / or alkaline earth metal hydroxides, such that the concentration of alkali metal hydroxides and / or alkaline earth metal hydroxides added to the mineralized water is 0.1-100 mg / L, and preferably 0.5-10 mg / L.

[0227] The alkali is preferably provided in water. Therefore, the alkali dosing device for introducing the alkali is preferably configured to introduce the alkali in solution or suspension form. If the alkali, as an alkali metal hydroxide and / or alkaline earth metal hydroxide, is in solution or suspension form, the content of the alkali metal hydroxide and / or alkaline earth metal hydroxide is preferably from 0.5% by weight to 50% by weight, preferably about 20% by weight, based on the total weight of the solution or suspension.

[0228] The alkali metal hydroxide and / or alkaline earth metal hydroxide solution or suspension can be generated on-site or independently of the method of the present invention. If the alkali metal hydroxide and / or alkaline earth metal hydroxide solution or suspension is prepared independently of the equipment of the present invention, it is preferably not prepared by water supplied in the process flow line. Alternatively, the alkali metal hydroxide and / or alkaline earth metal hydroxide solution or suspension may be prepared using water supplied in the process flow line.

[0229] The pH of the mineralized water is adjusted to 7.0-9.0 by adding an alkali (preferably an alkali metal hydroxide and / or an alkaline earth metal hydroxide) to the main process stream (17). Preferably, the pH of the mineralized water is adjusted to 7.2-8.9, and more preferably 7.8-8.4. It should be understood that pH adjustment depends on the level of mineralization and the target final water quality.

[0230] In one embodiment, a portion of the water supplied in the process flow line forms the main process flow (17), and the remaining portion of the water forms one or more side process flow lines (15). Thus, the one or more side process flow lines (15) are connected to the main process flow line (17), preferably, the one or more side process flow lines (15) are connected to the main process flow line (17) via inlets and outlets.

[0231] In one embodiment, the outlet of the one or more side process flow lines (15) is preferably located at the main process flow (17) downstream of the inlet of the one or more side process flow lines (15).

[0232] A further aspect of the invention relates to the use of an apparatus as defined herein for preparing an aqueous solution comprising at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate.

[0233] Another aspect of the invention relates to the use of a device as defined herein for the mineralization and / or stabilization of water. The water is preferably desalinated water or natural soft water.

[0234] For a definition of the device and its preferred embodiments, please refer to the statements provided above in discussing the technical details of the device of the present invention for preparing an aqueous solution containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate. Attached Figure Description

[0235] List of reference symbols:

[0236] (1): Reactor tank

[0237] (2): Immersion membrane (module)

[0238] (3): Product storage tank

[0239] (4): Carbon dioxide injection

[0240] (5): Recirculated air

[0241] (6): Pressure measurement of recirculated air

[0242] (7): Pressure measurement in the reaction tank

[0243] (8): Pressure measurement in aqueous solution

[0244] (9): Aqueous solution S2

[0245] (10): Flow measurement of aqueous solution

[0246] (11): Level measurement in reactor tank

[0247] (12): Turbidity measurement in aqueous solution

[0248] (13): Storage containers for calcium carbonate

[0249] (14): Containers for preparing calcium carbonate suspensions

[0250] (15): Side process flow line, water supply to process

[0251] (16): Suspension of micronized calcium carbonate

[0252] (17): Main process flow path

[0253] (17a): Main branch of the main process flow path

[0254] (17b): Side branch of the main process flow path

[0255] (18): pH measurement of mixed water flow

[0256] (19): Measurement of conductivity of mixed water flow

[0257] (20): Storage tank for Ca(OH)2

[0258] (21): Ca(OH)2 dosing process flow

[0259] (22): pH measurement of the final water flow

[0260] (23): Measurement of the conductivity of the final water flow

[0261] (24): The final treated water flow

[0262] (25): Calcium carbonate feeding screw feeder

[0263] Figure 1 This relates to equipment suitable for performing the general method according to the invention.

[0264] Figure 2 This relates to equipment suitable for performing the mineralization method according to the invention.

[0265] Figure 3 This relates to equipment suitable for performing mineralization using a pH adjustment method according to the present invention.

[0266] Figure 4 The schematic diagram relates to an equipment that includes only the main process flow line (17) and in which a dosing unit for dosing calcium carbonate is connected to a container (1) including an immersion membrane module (2).

[0267] Figure 5 The schematic diagram of the equipment includes only the main process flow line (17) and the dosing unit is configured to allow calcium carbonate to be directly dosed into the main process flow line (17).

[0268] Figure 6 The schematic diagram relates to an equipment that includes only the main process flow line (17) and in which a dosing unit for dosing calcium carbonate is connected to a container (14) for preparing a calcium carbonate suspension.

[0269] Figure 7 The schematic diagram relates to an apparatus comprising a main branch (17a) of a main process flow line and a side branch (17b) of the main process flow line, wherein a dosing unit for dosing calcium carbonate is connected to a container (14) for preparing a calcium carbonate suspension, the container (14) being located in the side branch (17b) of the main process flow line.

[0270] Figure 8The schematic diagram relates to an equipment comprising a main branch (17a) of the main process flow line and a side branch (17b) of the main process flow line, wherein the dosing unit is configured to directly dose calcium carbonate into the side branch (17b) of the main process flow line.

[0271] Figure 9 The schematic diagram relates to an equipment that includes a main process flow line (17) and a side process flow line (15), wherein a dosing unit for dosing calcium carbonate is connected to a container (1) including an immersion membrane module (2) located in the side process flow line (15).

[0272] Figure 10 The schematic diagram relates to an equipment comprising a main process flow line (17) and a side process flow line (15), wherein a container (1) of an immersion membrane module (2) is located in the side process flow line (15) and a dosing unit is configured such that calcium carbonate is directly dosed into the side process flow line (15).

[0273] Figure 11 The diagram relates to an apparatus comprising a main process flow line (17) and a side process flow line (15), including a submerged membrane module (2) and a container (1) for recirculated air (5) located in the side process flow line (15), and a dosing unit for dosing calcium carbonate connected to a container (14) for preparing a calcium carbonate suspension located in the side process flow line (15). The diagram also shows an alkali dosing device (21) for dosing Ca(OH)2.

[0274] Figure 12 The diagram relates to an apparatus comprising a main process flow line (17), a main branch (15a) of a side process flow line, and a side branch (15b) of the side process flow line, wherein a dosing unit for dosing calcium carbonate is connected to a container (14) for preparing a calcium carbonate suspension, the container (14) being located in the side branch (15b) of the side process flow line. The diagram also shows a container (1) comprising an immersed membrane module (2) and recirculated air (5) located in the main branch (15a) of the side process flow line, and an alkali dosing device (21) for dosing Ca(OH)2.

[0275] Figure 13Schematic diagram of a device, the device including a main process flow line (17), a main branch (15a) of a side process flow line, and a side branch (15b) of the side process flow line, wherein the dosing unit is configured such that calcium carbonate is directly dosed into the side branch (15b) of the side process flow line. The figure also shows a container (1) including an immersion membrane module (2) and recirculated air (5) in the main branch (15a) of the side process flow line, and an alkali dosing device (21) for Ca(OH)2 dosing. Detailed implementation mode

[0276] The scope and benefits of the present invention will be better understood based on the following examples that are intended to illustrate certain embodiments of the present invention and are non-limiting.

[0277] Examples

[0278] 1. Measurement method

[0279] The measurement methods used in the examples are described below.

[0280] pH of an aqueous suspension or solution

[0281] The pH of the suspension or solution is measured using a WTW Multi 3420 pH meter with integrated temperature compensation and a WTW WTW SenTix 940 pH probe. The pH electrode is calibrated using standards with pH values of 4.01, 7.00, and 9.21. The reported pH value is the end point value detected by the instrument (when the measured signal differs from the average value within the previous 6 seconds by less than 0.1 mV, it is the end point).

[0282] Solid content of an aqueous suspension

[0283] Moisture Analyzer

[0284] The solid content (also referred to as "dry weight") is determined using a Moisture Analyser HR73 from Mettler-Toledo, Switzerland, under the following settings: a temperature of 120 °C, automatic cut-off 3, standard drying, and 5 - 20 g of the product.

[0285] Particle size distribution of particulate material (% mass of particles with diameter < X) and weight median diameter ( d 50 )

[0286] The weight particle diameter and particle diameter mass distribution of the particulate material are measured by sedimentation method, which is an analysis of the sedimentation behavior in a gravitational field. Using a Sedigraph from Micromeritics Instrument Corporation TM5120 or Sedigraph TM 5100 was measured.

[0287] The methods and instruments are known to those skilled in the art and are commonly used to determine the particle size of fillers and pigments. Measurements were performed in an aqueous solution of 0.1% by weight Na₄P₂O₇. The sample was dispersed using a high-speed stirrer and ultrasonication.

[0288] Turbidity of aqueous suspension

[0289] Turbidity was measured using a Hach Lange 2100AN IS laboratory turbidimeter and calibrated using StabCal turbidity standards (Formazine standards) with values ​​of < 0.1, 20, 200, 1000, 4000, and 7500 NTU.

[0290] electrical conductivity

[0291] Conductivity was measured at 25°C using a Mettler Toledo Seven Multi Instrumentation equipped with a corresponding Mettler Toledo conductivity expansion unit and a Mettler Toledo InLab® 741 conductivity probe.

[0292] The instrument was first calibrated within the relevant conductivity range using a commercially available conductivity calibration solution (from Mettler Toledo). The effect of temperature on conductivity was automatically corrected using a linear correction mode. Measured conductivity values ​​were recorded with a reference temperature of 20°C. The recorded conductivity value was the endpoint value detected by the instrument (the endpoint was defined as the measured conductivity differing from the average value over the last 6 seconds by less than 0.4%).

[0293] temperature

[0294] Use Xylem Analytics' handheld WTW probe to measure temperature.

[0295] hardness of aqueous solution

[0296] The ions involved in water hardness, namely Ca2+, were determined by titration with the chelating agent ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA-disodium salt 0.01M). 2+ (aq) and Mg 2+ (aq). To maintain a constant pH of 10, an NH3-NH4Cl buffer was used. Titration using Eriochrome Black T as an indicator determined the effect of Ca... 2+ (aq) and Mg 2+ (aq) Total hardness due to ions, until the solution changes from wine red to sky blue. The amount of total hardness is calculated using the following equation:

[0297] Hardness = EDTA volume (ml) x 0.01 x 100.08 x 1000 / (sample volume (ml))

[0298] alkalinity of aqueous solution

[0299] The alkalinity of the aqueous solution was determined by titrating the sample with 0.1M hydrochloric acid solution. The titration endpoint was reached at a constant pH of 4.3. The amount of alkalinity was calculated using the following equation:

[0300] Alkalinity = Acid volume (ml) x 0.1 x 100.08 x 1000 / (2 x Sample volume (ml))

[0301] Acidity of aqueous solution

[0302] The acidity of the aqueous solution was determined by titrating free CO2 with a 0.01M sodium hydroxide solution. The titration endpoint was reached at a constant pH of 8.3. The amount of free CO2 was calculated using the following equation:

[0303] Free CO2 = NaOH volume (ml) x 0.01 x 44.01 x 1000 / Sample volume (ml)

[0304] Langerile Saturation Index (LSI)

[0305] The Langerile saturation index (LSI) describes the tendency of an aqueous liquid to form scale or become corrosive. A positive LSI indicates a tendency to form scale, while a negative LSI indicates corrosive properties. A balanced Langerile saturation index (i.e., LSI = 0) therefore signifies that the aqueous liquid is in chemical equilibrium. The LSI is calculated as follows:

[0306] LSI = pH – pH s ,

[0307] Where pH is the actual pH value of the aqueous liquid, and pH s This represents the pH value of an aqueous liquid under CaCO3 saturation conditions. The pH can be estimated as follows: s :

[0308] pH s =(9.3+A+B) - (C+D),

[0309] Where A is the numerical index of total dissolved solids (TDS) in the aqueous liquid, B is the numerical index of the temperature of the aqueous liquid in K, C is the numerical index of the calcium concentration of the aqueous liquid in mg / L CaCO3, and D is the numerical index of the alkalinity of the aqueous liquid in mg / L CaCO3. Parameters A to D are determined using the following equations:

[0310] A=(log 10 (TDS)–1) / 10,

[0311] B = -13.12 × log 10 (T+273)+34.55,

[0312] C=log 10 [Ca 2+ –0.4,

[0313] D=log 10 (TAC),

[0314] Where TDS is the total dissolved solids in mg / L, T is the temperature in °C, and [Ca 2+ [ ] represents the calcium concentration of the aqueous liquid in mg / L CaCO3, and TAC represents the alkalinity of the aqueous liquid in mg / L CaCO3.

[0315] 2. Example

[0316] The apparatus of this invention - preparation of calcium bicarbonate aqueous solution

[0317] Figure 1 The diagram shows a general process flow chart of an apparatus according to the present invention. The apparatus includes an internal 50m³... 2 The reactor tank (1) of the submerged membrane (2), the calcium carbonate storage silo (13) with a feeding screw feeder, and the container (14) for preparing calcium carbonate suspension.

[0318] Calcium bicarbonate solution (9) is produced in the permeate stream, and this can be used to increase the mineral content and alkalinity of another stream.

[0319] Feed water is obtained from the reverse osmosis system, producing water with the following specifications:

[0320] Sodium: <1 mg / L

[0321] Chloride: <2 mg / l

[0322] Calcium: 8 mg / l

[0323] Magnesium: <1 mg / l

[0324] Alkalinity: 12 mg / L (as CaCO3)

[0325] o dH: 1.12

[0326] pH value: 6.9

[0327] Electrical conductivity: 24 μS / cm

[0328] A calcium bicarbonate solution can be produced using the above-described equipment in the following manner: A reactor tank (1) is initially filled with a 5.0% by weight calcium carbonate suspension to a defined volume determined by a level measurement (11) within the reactor tank, covering the surface of the submerged membrane. A blower initiates the recirculation of an air volume (5) from the top of the reactor tank (1) to a diffuser located at the bottom of the submerged membrane (2) to ensure a uniform suspension within the reactor tank (1) and to provide some cleaning effect to the submerged membrane (2). This air volume (5) is recirculated at a rate of approximately 200 times per hour. A controlled amount of carbon dioxide is added to the airflow at (4). The recirculated air, loaded with carbon dioxide, creates turbulence from the bottom to the top of the reactor tank (1) through the submerged membrane (2), and the carbon dioxide is transferred from the airflow to the calcium carbonate suspension, increasing the amount of carbon dioxide dissolved in the suspension. The reaction between the calcium carbonate and the dissolved carbon dioxide allows the formation of an alkaline calcium bicarbonate solution within the reactor tank (1). Simultaneously, calcium carbonate is added from the storage silo (13) to the container (14) for the preparation of a calcium carbonate suspension within the container (14). The amount of calcium carbonate added is precisely measured using a loss-in-weight screw feeder. Water is also added to the tank, and a mixer is used to produce a homogeneous suspension with a known solids content. The suspension (16) of micronized calcium carbonate is then transferred to the reactor tank (1) at a rate equal to the amount of calcium carbonate dissolved by reaction with carbon dioxide, such that the total amount of undissolved calcium carbonate in the reactor tank (1) remains constant. The aqueous solution S2 (9) of the filtered permeate is extracted from the reactor tank (1) through a submerged membrane (2).

[0329] Start-up pilot unit

[0330] Using natural calcium carbonate powder (Millicarb) ® , from Omya International AG, Orgon France, d 50 =3μm) was used as the starting material in the pilot plant of the device according to the present invention. 900 l of a 5% by weight calcium carbonate powder suspension prepared was filled into the reactor (1), which was carried out by level control (11). The recirculated air flow (5) fan was driven at 10 m 3 / h starts for membrane regeneration via turbulence. The overpressure of the airflow is measured by (6).

[0331] Example 1:

[0332] To produce a high-load concentrate (~250 mg / L alkalinity), 99 g of carbon dioxide (4) was fed into the recirculating air stream over 1 hour. Continuous production began at the end of the first hour of recirculation. During continuous production, a 250 mg / L calcium carbonate suspension (16) was added to the reactor (1) for continuous dissolution of calcium carbonate within the reactor tank (1). Simultaneously, a clear aqueous solution S2 (9) was extracted via a submerged membrane (2) at a concentration of 250 mg / L calcium bicarbonate (measured as calcium carbonate) using a two-way dosing pump. The two ratios (the suspension of micronized calcium carbonate (16) and the aqueous solution (9)) were controlled by a level measurement (11) in the reactor tank (1) and a flow meter measurement (10) of the aqueous solution S2 (9). The initial setting of the ratios depended on the achievable membrane flux and was also determined by a transmembrane pressure measurement (8). The mass of the aqueous solution S2 (9) was controlled by a turbidity measurement (12) and titration.

[0333] Operating conditions and water quality results are given in Tables 1 and 2 below.

[0334] Table 1: Process flow of Example 1.

[0335]

[0336] a Carbon dioxide is added to the reactor in an equivalent amount based on the flow rate of water through the reactor.

[0337] Table 2: Water quality of Example 1

[0338]

[0339] Compared to patent application EP 2 623 467 A1, the above-described method using the device according to the invention has significantly better energy efficiency. According to Table 4 of EP 2 623 467 A1, 35 l / h of permeate was generated in four different tests from a tubular membrane module (Microdyne-Module MD063 TP 2N). This permeate flow was generated by circulating the suspension through the tubular module at a rate of 3200 l / h and a pressure of 1.5 bar. The hydraulic energy required to generate this permeate is therefore:

[0340] Hydraulic energy (W) = V x ρ xp

[0341] in:

[0342] V = fluid velocity (m)3 / s)

[0343] ρ = fluid density (kg / m³) 3 )

[0344] p = Pump outlet static pressure (kPa)

[0345] For the embodiment from patent application EP 2 623 467 A1, the following inputs are provided:

[0346] V = 3200 l / h = 8.8e-04 m 3 / s

[0347] ρ = 1000 kg / m 3 (Regarding water, no other details)

[0348] p = 1.5 bar = 150 kPa

[0349] W= 8.888e-04 x 1 000 x 150 = 133 W.

[0350] This produces an average of 54 l / h of permeate, and the power consumption per cubic meter of permeate produced can be calculated as follows:

[0351] Power per cubic meter = 0.133 kW ÷ 0.035 m³ 3 / h = 3.8kW.h / m 3 .

[0352] Use according to the present invention and as follows Figure 1 The device shown generates 1250 l / h = 3.47e-04m under a pressure of 50 kPa. 3 / s of permeate.

[0353] The hydraulic energy is therefore calculated as follows:

[0354] Hydraulic energy (W) = V x ρ xp = 3.47e-04 x 1 000 x 50 = 17.4 W.

[0355] This produces an average of 1,250 l / h of permeate, and the power consumption per cubic meter of permeate produced can be calculated as follows:

[0356] Power per cubic meter = 0.0174 kW ÷ 1.25 m³ 3 / h = 0.014 kW.h / m 3

[0357] Therefore, compared to the case of patent application EP 2 623 467 A1, the specific power consumption (power consumption per cubic meter of permeate produced) of the present invention is more than 270 times smaller.

[0358] Based on the use of EP 2 623 467 A1 and in Figure 1 The CO2 efficiency of the device of the present invention shown is calculated as follows:

[0359] (Free CO2 in water + CO2 added) / CO2 molecular weight: (Final alkalinity - Initial alkalinity) / CaCO3 molecular weight

[0360] =(2+110) / 44.01g / mol: (220-12) / 100.08g / mol = 2.54:2.08 = 1.22:1.

[0361] The CO2 efficiency, as shown in the test conducted using the equipment according to patent application EP 2 623 467 A1, is as follows:

[0362] 110 / 44.01g / mol: 170 / 100.08g / mol = 2.5:1.7 = 1.47:1.

[0363] The equipment of this invention – prepares and dispenses calcium bicarbonate aqueous solution to increase the mineral and alkalinity content of desalinated water.

[0364] Figure 2 The diagram shows a general process flow chart of an apparatus according to the present invention. The apparatus includes an internal 50m³... 2 The submerged membrane (2) includes a reactor tank (1), a product storage tank (3), a calcium carbonate storage silo (13) with a feeding screw feeder, and a container (14) for preparing calcium carbonate suspension.

[0365] Calcium bicarbonate solution is generated in aqueous solution S2 (9) and added to the main process stream (17) to increase the mineral content and alkalinity of the main process stream.

[0366] Feed water is obtained from the reverse osmosis system, producing water with the following specifications:

[0367] Sodium: <1 mg / L

[0368] Chloride: <2 mg / l

[0369] Calcium: 8 mg / l

[0370] Magnesium: <1 mg / l

[0371] Alkalinity: 12 mg / L (as CaCO3)

[0372] o dH: 1.12

[0373] pH value: 6.9

[0374] Electrical conductivity: 24 μS / cm

[0375] The above-described equipment can be used to produce a calcium bicarbonate solution in a side process flow line as follows: A reactor tank (1) is initially filled with a 5.0% by weight calcium carbonate suspension to a defined volume measured by a level gauge (11) in the reactor tank (1), which covers the surface of the submerged membrane (2). A blower initiates the recirculation of an air volume (5) from the top of the reactor tank (1) to a diffuser located at the bottom of the submerged membrane (2) to ensure a uniform suspension within the reactor (1) and to provide some cleaning effect to the membrane. This air volume (5) is recirculated at a rate of approximately 200 times per hour. A controlled amount of carbon dioxide is added to the airflow at, for example, position (4). The recirculated air, loaded with carbon dioxide, creates turbulence as it flows from the bottom to the top of the reactor through the submerged membrane (2), and the carbon dioxide is transferred from the airflow to the calcium carbonate suspension, increasing the amount of carbon dioxide dissolved in the suspension. The reaction between the calcium carbonate and the dissolved carbon dioxide allows the formation of a calcium bicarbonate solution within the reactor tank. Simultaneously, calcium carbonate is added from the storage silo (13) to the container (14) for the preparation of a calcium carbonate suspension within the container (14). A loss-in-weight screw feeder is used to precisely measure the amount of calcium carbonate added. Water is also added to the container (14), and a mixer is used to produce a homogeneous suspension with a known solids content. The suspension (16) of micronized calcium carbonate is then transferred to the reactor tank (1) at a rate equal to the amount of calcium carbonate dissolved by reaction with carbon dioxide, such that the total amount of undissolved calcium carbonate in the reactor tank (1) remains constant. An aqueous solution S2 (9) of filtered permeate as a clarified concentrated calcium bicarbonate solution is used to add calcium and bicarbonate to the main process flow line (17) via a bidirectional dosing pump. The product storage tank (3) is used as a buffer, also for the backwash sequence every 10 minutes.

[0376] Pilot unit in trial operation

[0377] Using natural calcium carbonate powder (Millicarb) ® From Omya International, Orgon France d 50 =3μm) was used as the starting material in the pilot plant. 900 l of a 5% by weight calcium carbonate powder suspension was prepared and filled into the reactor tank (1), which was measured by leveling (11) in the reactor tank (1). The recirculated air flow (5) fan was driven at 10 m 3 / h starts for membrane regeneration via turbulence. The overpressure of the airflow is measured by (6).

[0378] Example 2:

[0379] To produce a high-load concentrate (~250 mg / L alkalinity), 99 g of carbon dioxide (4) was fed into the recirculating air stream over 1 hour. Continuous production began at the end of the first hour of recirculation. During continuous production, a 250 mg / L calcium carbonate suspension (16) was added to the reactor (1) for continuous dissolution of calcium carbonate within the reactor tank (1). Simultaneously, a clear aqueous solution S2 (9) was extracted via a submerged membrane at a concentration of 250 mg / L calcium bicarbonate (measured as calcium carbonate) and discharged into the main stream (17) via a two-way dosing pump through a product storage tank (3). The two ratios (the suspension (16) of micronized calcium carbonate and the aqueous solution S2 (9)) were controlled by level measurement (11) and flow measurement (10) in the reactor tank (1). The initial setting of the ratios depended on the achievable membrane flux and was also determined by transmembrane pressure measurement (8). The quality of the aqueous solution S2 (9) was controlled by turbidity measurement (12) and titration in the aqueous solution (9). The mass of the first blend was measured by pH (18), conductivity (19) and titration of the blended water stream.

[0380] Operating conditions and water quality results are given in Tables 3 and 4 below.

[0381] Table 3: Process flow of Example 2.

[0382]

[0383] a Carbon dioxide is added to the reactor in an equivalent amount based on the flow rate of water through the reactor.

[0384] Table 4: Water quality results of Example 2

[0385]

[0386] The apparatus of this invention prepares and dispenses an aqueous solution of calcium bicarbonate, followed by pH adjustment to increase the mineral and alkalinity content of the desalinated water and stabilize it in terms of its saturation index.

[0387] Figure 3 The diagram shows a general process flow chart of an apparatus according to the present invention. The apparatus includes an internal 50m³... 2 The submerged membrane (2) includes a reactor tank (1), a product storage tank (3), a calcium carbonate storage silo (13) with a dosing screw feeder, a container (14) for preparing calcium carbonate suspension, a calcium hydroxide storage tank (20), and a dosing system.

[0388] A calcium bicarbonate solution is generated in aqueous solution S2 (9) and added to the main process stream (17) to increase the mineral content and alkalinity of the main process stream (17). After the calcium bicarbonate solution is added, a 5.0% by weight high-purity calcium hydroxide suspension (21) is added to the main process stream (17) to produce the desired final water quality of the final treated water stream (24).

[0389] Feed water is provided in all process streams and is obtained from the reverse osmosis system, producing water with the following specifications:

[0390] Sodium: <1 mg / L

[0391] Chloride: <2 mg / l

[0392] Calcium: 8 mg / l

[0393] Magnesium: <1 mg / l

[0394] Alkalinity: 12 mg / L (as CaCO3)

[0395] o dH: 1.12

[0396] pH value: 6.9

[0397] Electrical conductivity: 24 μS / cm

[0398] The above-described equipment can be used to produce a calcium bicarbonate solution in a side process flow line as follows: A 5.0% by weight calcium carbonate suspension is initially filled into the reactor tank (1) to a defined volume measured by a level gauge (11) in the reactor tank (1), covering the surface of the submerged membrane (2). A blower initiates the recirculation of an air volume (5) from the top of the reactor tank (1) to a diffuser located at the bottom of the submerged membrane (2) to ensure a uniform suspension within the reactor tank (1) and to provide some cleaning effect to the submerged membrane (2). The volume is recirculated at a rate of approximately 200 times per hour. A controlled amount of carbon dioxide is added (4) to the air stream. The recirculated air, loaded with carbon dioxide, creates turbulence as it flows from the bottom to the top of the reactor tank (1) through the submerged membrane (2), and the carbon dioxide is transferred from the air stream to the calcium carbonate suspension, increasing the amount of carbon dioxide dissolved in the suspension. The reaction between the calcium carbonate and the dissolved carbon dioxide allows the formation of a calcium bicarbonate solution within the reactor tank (1). Simultaneously, calcium carbonate is added from the storage silo (13) to the container (14) for the preparation of a calcium carbonate suspension within the container (14). A loss-in-weight screw feeder is used to precisely measure the amount of calcium carbonate added. Water is also added to the tank, and a mixer is used to produce a homogeneous suspension with a known solids content. The suspension (16) of micronized calcium carbonate is then transferred to the reactor tank (1) at a rate equal to the amount of calcium carbonate dissolved by reaction with carbon dioxide, such that the total amount of undissolved calcium carbonate in the reactor tank (1) remains constant. An aqueous solution S2 (9) of filtered permeate as a clarified concentrated calcium bicarbonate solution is used to add calcium and bicarbonate to the main process stream (17) via a two-way dosing pump. The product storage tank (3) is used as a buffer, also for the backwash sequence every 10 minutes. A second dosing pump is used to add a calcium hydroxide suspension stored in the storage tank (20) to the main process stream (17), for example, at position (21).

[0399] Pilot unit in trial operation

[0400] Using natural calcium carbonate powder (Millicarb) ® From Omya International, Orgon France d 50=3μm) and calcium hydroxide suspension (Schäferkalk, Precal 72, 20% by weight in water) were used as starting materials in the pilot plant. Schäferkalk product (Precal 72) is a highly reactive 20% by weight calcium hydroxide suspension, which was diluted to 5% by weight (21) and directly added to the final treated water stream (24) for efficient pumping. 900 l of the prepared 5% by weight calcium carbonate powder suspension was filled into reactor tank (1), which was carried out by level measurement (11) in reactor tank 1. The recirculated air stream (5) was fanned at 10 m 3 / h starts for membrane regeneration via turbulence. The overpressure of the airflow is measured by (6).

[0401] Example 3:

[0402] To produce a high-load concentrate (~250 mg / L alkalinity), 99 g of carbon dioxide (4) was fed into the recirculating air stream over 1 hour. Continuous production began at the end of the first hour of recirculation. During continuous production, a 250 mg / L micronized calcium carbonate suspension (16) was added to the reactor tank (1) for continuous dissolution of calcium carbonate within the reactor tank (1). Simultaneously, a clarified aqueous solution (9) was extracted via a submerged membrane (2) at a concentration of 250 mg / L of calcium bicarbonate (measured as calcium carbonate) and discharged into the main process stream (17) via a bidirectional dosing pump through a product storage tank (3). Two ratios (the micronized calcium carbonate suspension (16) and the aqueous solution S2 (9)) were controlled by a level measurement (11) in the reactor tank (1) and a flow measurement (10) of the aqueous solution S2 (9). The initial setting of the ratios depended on the achievable membrane flux and was also determined by a transmembrane pressure measurement (8). The quality of the aqueous solution (9) was controlled by turbidity measurement (12) and titration. The quality of the first blend was measured by pH (18), conductivity (19) and titration. In order to achieve the desired final water quality with a Langerier saturation index of 0 for the final treated stream (24), a calcium hydroxide suspension (21) from tank (20) was also added to the final treated stream (24).

[0403] Operating conditions and water quality results are given in Tables 5 and 6 below.

[0404] Table 5: Process flow of Example 3.

[0405]

[0406] a Carbon dioxide is added to the reactor in an equivalent amount based on the flow rate of water through the reactor.

[0407] Table 6: Water quality results of Example 3

[0408]

[0409] Example 4: According to Figure 1 The use of ceramic membranes in membrane calcite reactors (MCR)

[0410] 4.1 Apparatus

[0411] The following device was used for testing:

[0412] The "Membrane Calcite Reactor" (MCR) consists of the following components:

[0413] A rectangular PVC reactor with a maximum volume of 75 liters and the required connections.

[0414] The Cembrane SiCFM-0828 silicon carbide immersion membrane module has a thickness of 0.828m. 2 The membrane area is installed inside the reactor.

[0415] Cembrane SiCFM-0828 silicon carbide is a ceramic membrane. Methods for preparing ceramic membranes suitable for this invention are described, for example, in EP 3 009 182 A1. The contents of patent application EP 3 009 182 A1 are hereby incorporated by reference.

[0416] Seal the reactor lid,

[0417] Instruments for horizontal position control

[0418] Instruments used for pressure (especially transmembrane pressure (TMP)) monitoring,

[0419] The blower system, configured to form a blower recirculation loop, consists of the following parts:

[0420] Blower operated by a variable speed drive,

[0421] The piping system for the blower connected from the top of the reactor (to the cover)

[0422] The discharge piping system connects to the diffuser manifold at the bottom of the submerged membrane unit.

[0423] An osmotic pump, used to extract concentrated solutions through a membrane, consists of the following components:

[0424] Pumps operated by variable speed drives,

[0425] Flow meters used to measure flow velocity

[0426] A carbon dioxide dosing system consists of the following parts:

[0427] carbon dioxide bottle

[0428] Pressure regulator to reduce the pressure on the bottle from 50 bar to 5 bar.

[0429] Mass flow meters and control valves for regulating and measuring carbon dioxide dosage.

[0430] Connect to the blower exhaust duct system.

[0431] The slurry compression (SMD) system consists of the following components:

[0432] Slurry compressing (SMD) tank, equipped with an electric agitator and tank leveling instrument.

[0433] The feed water supplied to the tank is controlled to maintain the water level within the tank.

[0434] The loss-in-weight feeding system precisely adds the required amount of micronized calcium carbonate into the SMD tank.

[0435] The hopper is used to supply micronized calcium carbonate to the loss-in-weight feeder.

[0436] A slurry feed pump is used to feed the calcium carbonate suspension generated in the SMD tank into a 75 L reactor.

[0437] Dosing hose for connecting the slurry feed pump and the 1800 L reactor.

[0438] Control systems that perform the following functions:

[0439] Control the osmotic pump to achieve the required flow rate.

[0440] Control the slurry feed pump to ensure the reactor level remains constant.

[0441] Run the blower at the required speed.

[0442] 4.2 Procedure:

[0443] Use the following procedure to conduct the experiment:

[0444] 1. The SMD tank is filled with water and calcium carbonate is added to the tank to produce suspension S1 (according to the settings provided below).

[0445] 2. Set the SMD control to automatic mode so that water is continuously added to the SMD tank as the suspension is removed from the tank, and calcium carbonate is continuously added to ensure a consistent suspension of the concentration provided in Section 4.3 is produced.

[0446] 3. A suspension S1 containing 1% micronized calcium carbonate is supplied to a 75-liter reactor (membrane calcite reactor). During this process, the suspension S1 of micronized calcium carbonate is replenished to the reactor to ensure a continuous process.

[0447] 4. Close the reactor lid and ensure a tight seal.

[0448] 5. Power on the blower to keep the micronized calcium carbonate in suspension S1.

[0449] 6. Dispense carbon dioxide into the blower recirculation loop according to the setup provided in Section 4.3.

[0450] 7. The osmotic pump operates at a set speed to provide the required flow rate and extract clarified solution S2 from the reactor tank. The pump speed is varied to achieve the flow rate range as provided in Section 4.3.

[0451] 8. The slurry feed pump operates at a set speed to ensure that the level in the reactor tank remains constant.

[0452] 9. Analyze the following water qualities of the concentrated solution S2 extracted by the osmotic pump using the method described above:

[0453] a. Alkalinity (mg / l)

[0454] b. Total hardness (mg / l)

[0455] c. Acidity (in mg / L CO2)

[0456] d. pH, conductivity, temperature & turbidity

[0457] Record the operating settings for each experiment, including flow rate, TMP, and temperature.

[0458] 4.3 Test Setup

[0459] The following test settings were used during the experiment:

[0460] Table 7: Test Settings

[0461]

[0462] 4.4 Measurement Results

[0463] Table 8: Measurement Results

[0464]

[0465]

[0466] The results provided in Table 8 demonstrate that high flux rates (up to 845 lmh) can be achieved by using a ceramic membrane as the at least one submerged membrane module, and these high flux rates are achieved through stable and nearly constant transmembrane pressure (TMP) values. The flux rates are normalized over TMP (along with temperature) to produce membrane permeability values. The permeability values ​​of the ceramic membrane as the at least one submerged membrane module are fairly constant throughout the flux range. As can be seen from Table 8, the permeability of the ceramic membrane as the at least one submerged membrane module in this method is in the range of 1100–1790 lmh / bar.

[0467] Furthermore, the use of this submerged membrane module results in lower specific energy consumption for blower operation.

[0468] 79 m 2 The ceramic membrane tower with a membrane area has a maximum blower air velocity of 150 Nm. 3 / hr. Using test results showing a stable flux rate of 800 lmh, such a column can produce 800 lmh × 79m 2 = 63.2m 3 The flow rate is / hr. Normalizing this flow rate to the maximum blower airflow rate will show the specific flow rate (per Nm³). 3 The air velocity of the blower ( / hr) is per Nm 3 / hr blower air volume is 0.421m 3 / hr of permeate.

[0469] In addition to the benefits mentioned above, the tests showed that very low contact times—as low as 4 minutes—can be achieved by using at least one immersion membrane module.

[0470] Conclusion: Experiments using ceramic membranes as at least one submerged membrane module in the remineralization process have demonstrated significantly higher flux rates during stable operation. The higher flux rates result in lower specific energy consumption of the blower and reduced contact time in the process, which reduces the overall footprint of the process, crucial for large-scale desalination. Furthermore, the increased permeability of the membrane module provides a reduced pressure drop across the module, and thus offers lower energy consumption for applications where energy costs are critical.

[0471] This application also involves the following items:

[0472] Project 1: An apparatus for preparing an aqueous solution containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate, the apparatus comprising...

[0473] a) Provide the process flow path for water.

[0474] (b) At least one dosing unit adapted to dose at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material into at least a portion of the water supplied in the process flow path to obtain an aqueous suspension containing at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material.

[0475] c) At least one suitable for converting CO2 or pK a An apparatus for dispensing an acid with a pH < 5 into at least a portion of the water supplied in the process flow path or into an aqueous suspension containing at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material, for obtaining an aqueous suspension S1 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate, and

[0476] d) A container connected to the at least one process flow line via an inlet, wherein the container

[0477] i) is configured such that at least one submerged membrane module is located in the container for filtering at least a portion of the aqueous suspension S1 by passing it through the at least one submerged membrane module to obtain an aqueous solution S2 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate, and

[0478] ii) Includes at least one outlet for releasing an aqueous solution S2 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate from the container.

[0479] Project 2. The equipment according to Project 1, wherein the at least one commissioning unit

[0480] i) Connected to a storage container for solid materials, and / or

[0481] ii) configured such that the at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material is directly added to the water supplied in the process flow path, or

[0482] iii) A container suitable for preparing an aqueous suspension containing at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material, wherein the container is connected to the process flow line via an inlet for introducing water provided in the process flow line and an outlet for discharging the aqueous suspension containing at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material, or

[0483] iv) Connect to the container.

[0484] Item 3, the equipment according to Item 1 or 2, wherein the container is a reactor tank, preferably a sealed reactor tank.

[0485] Item 4. The apparatus according to any one of Items 1-3, wherein the container includes a recirculation device configured such that air or process fluid is recirculated from the bottom to the top of the at least one submerged membrane module and / or the container through at least a portion of the surface of the at least one submerged membrane module.

[0486] Item 5. The device according to any one of Items 1-4, wherein the at least one device c)

[0487] i) is configured to make CO2 or pK a Acids with a pH value <5 are directly added to the water supplied in this process flow line, or

[0488] ii) A container suitable for preparing an aqueous suspension S1 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate, wherein the container is connected to the process flow line via an inlet for introducing water provided in the process flow line and an outlet for discharging the aqueous suspension S1 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate, or

[0489] iii) Connected to the container, preferably to the recirculation device, which is adapted to recirculate air or process fluid through at least a portion of the surface of the at least one submerged membrane module in a bottom-to-top direction from the bottom of the at least one submerged membrane module and / or the container.

[0490] Item 6. The apparatus according to any one of Items 1-5, wherein the at least one submerged membrane module

[0491] a) Having a pore size of <1 μm, and more preferably <0.1 μm, for example 0.04-0.9 μm such as about 0.04 μm or 0.08 μm, and / or

[0492] b) Having ≥10 l / (m 2 h), preferably 50-150 l / (m 2 h) and the optimal value is 80-150 l / (m 2 h) flux, and / or

[0493] c) is made of ceramic, polymer or other synthetic materials.

[0494] Item 7. The equipment according to any one of Items 1-6, wherein the at least one process flow line includes one or more main process flow lines.

[0495] Item 8. The equipment according to Item 7, wherein the at least one process flow line includes two main process flow lines, preferably a main branch of the main process flow line and a side branch of the main process flow line.

[0496] Item 9. The equipment according to Item 8, wherein the at least one dispensing unit is located in a side branch of the main process flow line.

[0497] Item 10, the apparatus according to Item 8 or 9, wherein the main branch of the main process flow line and the side branch of the main process flow line are configured such that they merge together upstream of the container.

[0498] Item 11. The equipment according to any one of items 1-6, wherein the at least one process flow line includes a main process flow line and one or more side process flow lines, preferably a main process flow line and one or two side process flow lines.

[0499] Item 12. The equipment according to Item 11, wherein the at least one process flow line includes a main process flow line and two side process flow lines, preferably a main branch of the side process flow line and a side branch of the side process flow line.

[0500] Item 13. The equipment according to Item 11 or 12, wherein the at least one dispensing unit is located in the process flow line on that side, or, if present, in the branch of the process flow line on that side.

[0501] Item 14. The apparatus according to any one of items 11-13, wherein the main branch of the side process flow line and the side branch of the side process flow line are configured such that they merge together upstream of the container.

[0502] Item 15. The apparatus according to any one of items 11-14, wherein the main process flow line and the side process flow line are configured such that they are merged together downstream of the container.

[0503] Item 16. The apparatus according to any one of items 1-15, wherein the apparatus includes an alkali dosing device downstream of the container for introducing alkali into an aqueous solution S2 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate.

[0504] Item 17. The apparatus according to any one of items 7-15, wherein the apparatus includes an alkali dosing device for introducing alkali into a downstream main process flow line at a location where the side process flow line and the main process flow line are combined, preferably for introducing alkali into a mixture of an aqueous solution S2 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate and water in the main process flow line.

[0505] Item 18. Use of the apparatus according to any one of Items 1-6 for preparing an aqueous solution containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate.

[0506] Item 19. The use of the equipment described in any one of Items 1-15 for the mineralization and / or stabilization of water.

Claims

1. An apparatus for preparing an aqueous solution comprising at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate, the apparatus comprising: a) Provide the process flow path for water. (b) At least one dosing unit adapted to dose at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material into at least a portion of the water supplied in the process flow path to obtain an aqueous suspension containing at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material. c) At least one apparatus suitable for dispensing CO2 into an aqueous suspension containing at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material, for obtaining an aqueous suspension S1 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate, and d) A container connected to the at least one process flow line via an inlet, the container being a sealed reactor tank, wherein the container i) is configured such that at least one submerged membrane module is located in the container for filtering at least a portion of the aqueous suspension S1 by passing it through the at least one submerged membrane module to obtain an aqueous solution S2 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate, and ii) Includes at least one outlet for releasing an aqueous solution S2 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate from the container. The container includes a recirculation device configured such that air at the top of the sealed reactor tank is used as feed and reintroduced at the bottom of the sealed reactor tank, such that the air is recirculated from the bottom to the top of the at least one submerged membrane module and / or the container, passing through at least a portion of the surface of the at least one submerged membrane module. The at least one device c) is connected to the recirculation device such that a controlled amount of CO2 is injected into the recirculation air flow (5) of the recirculation device, such that the CO2-loaded recirculation air passes over the at least one submerged membrane module from the bottom to the top of the sealed reactor tank. The container is configured to allow the merging of water with the at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material and CO2, as well as the filtration of at least a portion of the aqueous suspension S1, to take place in the same sealed reactor tank.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the at least one dispensing unit i) Connected to a storage container for solid materials, and / or ii) configured such that the at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material is directly added to the water supplied in the process flow path, or iii) A container suitable for preparing an aqueous suspension containing at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material, wherein the container is connected to the process flow line via an inlet for introducing water provided in the process flow line and an outlet for discharging the aqueous suspension containing at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate material, or iv) Connect to the container.

3. The device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one submersible membrane module a) Has a pore size of <1μm, and / or b) Having ≥10 l / (m 2 h) flux, and / or c) is made of ceramic, polymer or other synthetic materials.

4. The device according to claim 3, wherein the at least one submerged membrane module has a pore size of <0.1 μm.

5. The device according to claim 3, wherein the at least one submerged membrane module has a pore size of 0.04-0.9 μm.

6. The device according to claim 3, wherein the at least one submerged membrane module has a pore size of about 0.04 μm or 0.08 μm.

7. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the at least one submerged membrane module has a density of 50-150 l / (m²). 2 The flux of h).

8. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the at least one submerged membrane module has a density of 80-150 l / (m²). 2 The flux of h).

9. The apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one process flow line comprises one or more main process flow lines.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the at least one process flow line comprises two main process flow lines.

11. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the at least one process flow line includes a main branch of the main process flow line and a side branch of the main process flow line.

12. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the at least one dispensing unit is located in a side branch of the main process flow line.

13. The apparatus according to any one of claims 10-12, wherein the main branch of the main process flow line and the side branch of the main process flow line are configured such that they merge together upstream of the container.

14. The apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one process flow line comprises a main process flow line and one or more side process flow lines.

15. The apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one process flow line comprises a main process flow line and one or two side process flow lines.

16. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the at least one process flow path comprises a main process flow path and two side process flow paths.

17. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the two side process flow lines are a main branch of the side process flow line and a side branch of the side process flow line.

18. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the at least one dispensing unit is located in the process flow line on that side, or, if present, in a branch of the process flow line on that side.

19. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the main branch of the side process flow line and the side branch of the side process flow line are configured such that they merge together upstream of the container.

20. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the main process flow line and the side process flow line are configured such that they merge together downstream of the container.

21. The apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the apparatus includes an alkali dosing device downstream of the container for introducing alkali into an aqueous solution S2 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate.

22. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the apparatus includes an alkali dosing device for introducing alkali into the downstream main process flow line at the location where the side process flow line and the main process flow line are combined.

23. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the apparatus includes an alkali dosing device for introducing alkali into a mixture comprising an aqueous solution S2 containing at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate and water in the main process flow path.

24. Use of the apparatus according to any one of claims 1-8 for preparing an aqueous solution comprising at least one alkaline earth metal bicarbonate.

25. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1-20 is used for the mineralization and / or stabilization of water.

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