Device for continuously measuring TOC (Total Organic Carbon)

Abstract

The embodiment of the utility model discloses a device for continuously measuring TOC (total organic carbon), which comprises a control unit, and an automatic pretreatment unit, a sample introduction unit, an oxidation reaction unit and a detection unit which are connected in sequence, and the control unit is electrically connected with the automatic pretreatment unit, the sample introduction unit, the oxidation reaction unit and the detection unit respectively; the automatic pretreatment unit comprises a filter assembly, a homogeneous mixer and a pre-oxidation reactor which are connected in sequence, the liquid outlet end of the filter assembly is communicated with the liquid inlet end of the homogeneous mixer, and the liquid outlet end of the homogeneous mixer is communicated with the liquid inlet end of the pre-oxidation reactor; the liquid outlet end of the pre-oxidation reactor is communicated with the liquid inlet end of the sample introduction unit and is used for conveying the pretreated water sample to the sample introduction unit. The automatic pretreatment unit, the sample introduction unit, the oxidation reaction unit, the detection unit and the control unit are matched with one another, so that the whole process from the time when a water sample enters the device to the time when TOC determination is finally completed is realized, and automation and continuity are realized.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of TOC detection technology, specifically to an apparatus for continuous TOC measurement. Background Technology

[0002] Total Organic Carbon (TOC) analyzers are widely used in industries such as municipal water supply, pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, and microelectronics for the quantitative detection of organic pollutants in water. The principle of a TOC analyzer is to simultaneously detect the total organic carbon (TC) and inorganic carbon (IC, which is divided into carbonate, carbonate ions, and bicarbonate ions) content in a sample, and calculate the TOC content of the sample according to the following formula: TOC = TC - IC.

[0003] Traditional TOC measurement devices exhibit significant inconsistencies and inefficiencies across their processes, from sample introduction to oxidation and detection. For example, sample pretreatment before introduction is typically done manually, involving tedious operations such as filtration and reagent addition. This not only consumes considerable time and manpower but also makes it difficult to ensure consistency and accuracy across different batches. Consequently, subsequent steps like sample introduction, oxidation, and detection often experience delays, leading to discontinuous measurements and reduced efficiency. Utility Model Content

[0004] This application provides an apparatus for continuous TOC measurement to improve the problem of inconsistent TOC measurement and its impact on measurement efficiency.

[0005] This application provides an apparatus for continuous determination of TOC, including an automatic pretreatment unit, a sample injection unit, an oxidation reaction unit, a detection unit, and a control unit. The automatic pretreatment unit is connected to the sample injection unit, the sample injection unit is connected to the oxidation reaction unit, the oxidation reaction unit is connected to the detection unit, and the control unit is electrically connected to the automatic pretreatment unit, the sample injection unit, the oxidation reaction unit, and the detection unit, respectively.

[0006] The automatic pretreatment unit includes a filter assembly, a homogenizer, and a pre-oxidation reactor connected in sequence. The outlet of the filter assembly is connected to the inlet of the homogenizer, the outlet of the homogenizer is connected to the inlet of the pre-oxidation reactor, and the outlet of the pre-oxidation reactor is connected to the inlet of the sample feeding unit and is used to transport the pretreated water sample to the sample feeding unit.

[0007] In some embodiments of this application, the filtration assembly includes a housing and a filter structure. The filter structure is detachably disposed at one end of the housing and extends into the housing. The sidewall of the housing has a plurality of water passage holes circumferentially opened. The water passage holes are located above the part of the filter structure used for filtering water samples. The other end of the housing is connected to the homogenizer.

[0008] In some embodiments of this application, the filter structure includes a coarse filter layer, a medium filter layer, a fine filter layer, and a sleeve. The coarse filter layer, the medium filter layer, and the fine filter layer are detachably disposed on the sleeve from top to bottom. An end cap is provided at one end of the sleeve away from the interior of the outer shell, and the end cap is detachably and sealingly connected to the outer shell.

[0009] In some embodiments of this application, the coarse filter layer is a stainless steel wire mesh, and the pore size of the coarse filter layer is 100 μm.

[0010] In some embodiments of this application, the middle filter layer is a polypropylene fiber filter, and the pore size of the middle filter layer is 50 μm.

[0011] In some embodiments of this application, the fine filter layer is a polytetrafluoroethylene microporous membrane filter, and the pore size of the fine filter layer is 10 μm.

[0012] In some embodiments of this application, the inner wall of the housing is provided with a plurality of backwash nozzles, the backwash nozzles are located below the filter structure, and the spray direction of the backwash nozzles is towards the filter structure. The inner wall of the housing is provided with a plurality of pressure sensors, some of which are located between the water inlet and the part of the filter structure used for filtering water samples, and some of which are located below the filter structure.

[0013] In some embodiments of this application, the homogenizer includes a stainless steel tank, a stirring assembly, and water-blocking plates. One end of the stainless steel tank is connected to the filtration assembly and is used to receive water samples filtered by the filtration assembly. The stirring end of the stirring assembly is located inside the stainless steel tank, and multiple water-blocking plates are arranged circumferentially along the inner wall of the stainless steel tank.

[0014] In some embodiments of this application, the stirring assembly includes a motor and a stirring paddle. The motor is located outside the stainless steel tank, and the stirring paddle is located inside the stainless steel tank and extends to the outside of the stainless steel tank and is connected to the output end of the motor. The edge of the stirring paddle blade is provided with a serrated cutting edge.

[0015] In some embodiments of this application, the pre-oxidation reactor includes a cylindrical tube and an ultraviolet lamp. The ultraviolet lamp is disposed inside the cylindrical tube. The cylindrical tube is connected to the homogenizer. The inner wall of the cylindrical tube is provided with a reflector. The outer wall of the cylindrical tube is fitted with a cooling sleeve for the flow of coolant, so that the coolant can exchange heat with the cylindrical tube.

[0016] Therefore, the continuous TOC determination apparatus disclosed in the embodiments of this application utilizes an automatic pretreatment unit, a sample introduction unit, an oxidation reaction unit, a detection unit, and a control unit in cooperation to automate and ensure continuity of the entire process from water sample entry into the apparatus to final TOC determination. The automatic pretreatment unit consists of a filtration assembly, a homogenizer, and a pre-oxidation reactor connected sequentially to process the water sample step by step. The filtration assembly removes various impurities from the water sample, ensuring the purity of the water sample entering subsequent stages, thereby improving the accuracy and stability of the entire determination process and preventing impurities from interfering with the determination results. The homogenizer then uniformly mixes the filtered water sample, making the distribution of substances in the water sample more uniform. The uniformly mixed water sample can more stably undergo preliminary oxidation treatment in the pre-oxidation reactor, ensuring that the oxidation reaction proceeds uniformly throughout the water sample system, avoiding local over- or under-reaction, and further improving the reliability and repeatability of the determination results. The pre-oxidation reactor performs preliminary oxidation on the water sample, altering the structure and state of organic matter, making it easier to be completely oxidized after entering the oxidation reaction unit. This improves the efficiency of the oxidation reaction, reduces the processing time of a single sample in the oxidation reaction unit, and thus facilitates continuous measurement. The entire water sample pretreatment process is completed through the cooperation of the filtration assembly, homogenizer, and pre-oxidation reactor. Compared to relying on tedious manual operations such as filtration and reagent addition, this significantly reduces the required time and manpower, and eliminates the problem of inconsistent and accurate processing due to manual operations on different batches. Attached Figure Description

[0017] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0018] Figure 1 A structural block diagram of an apparatus for continuously measuring TOC provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0019] Figure 2 A structural block diagram of another device for continuously measuring TOC provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0020] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the structure of an automatic pretreatment unit in a device for continuous TOC measurement provided in this application embodiment;

[0021] Figure 4 for Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the filter components in the provided automatic pretreatment unit;

[0022] Figure 5 for Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the filter structure in the provided filter assembly;

[0023] Figure 6 for Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the homogenizer in the provided automatic pretreatment unit;

[0024] Figure 7 for Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the pre-oxidation reactor in the provided automated pretreatment unit.

[0025] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0026] 1. Automatic pretreatment unit; 11. Filter assembly; 111. Housing; 112. Coarse filter layer; 113. Medium filter layer; 114. Fine filter layer; 115. Sleeve; 116. End cap; 117. Backwash nozzle; 118. Pressure sensor; 119. Water inlet; 12. Homogenizer; 121. Stainless steel tank; 122. Agitator; 123. Motor; 124. Water baffle; 125. Shock absorber; 13. Pre-oxidation reactor; 131. Cylindrical tube; 132. Ultraviolet lamp; 133. Reflector; 134. Cooling sleeve; 2. Sample injection unit; 3. Oxidation reaction unit; 4. Detection unit; 5. Control unit. Detailed Implementation

[0027] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0028] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, features defined with "first" and "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more features. In the description of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0029] Please see Figures 1 to 3 The embodiments of this application provide an apparatus for continuous determination of TOC, including an automatic pretreatment unit 1, a sample injection unit 2, an oxidation reaction unit 3, a detection unit 4, and a control unit 5. The automatic pretreatment unit 1 is connected to the sample injection unit 2, the sample injection unit 2 is connected to the oxidation reaction unit 3, the oxidation reaction unit 3 is connected to the detection unit 4, and the control unit 5 is electrically connected to the automatic pretreatment unit 1, the sample injection unit 2, the oxidation reaction unit 3, and the detection unit 4 respectively.

[0030] The automatic pretreatment unit 1 includes a filter assembly 11, a homogenizer 12, and a pre-oxidation reactor 13 connected in sequence. The outlet end of the filter assembly 11 is connected to the inlet end of the homogenizer 12, the outlet end of the homogenizer 12 is connected to the inlet end of the pre-oxidation reactor 13, and the outlet end of the pre-oxidation reactor 13 is connected to the inlet end of the sample feeding unit 2 and is used to transport the pretreated water sample to the sample feeding unit 2.

[0031] The technical solution provided in this application mainly utilizes the coordinated operation of an automatic pretreatment unit 1, a sample introduction unit 2, an oxidation reaction unit 3, a detection unit 4, and a control unit 5 to automate and streamline the entire process of water sample determination from entry into the device to final TOC measurement. The automatic pretreatment unit 1 consists of a filter assembly 11, a homogenizer 12, and a pre-oxidation reactor 13 connected sequentially to process the water sample step by step. The filter assembly 11 removes various impurities from the water sample, ensuring the purity of the water sample entering subsequent stages, thereby improving the accuracy and stability of the entire measurement process and preventing impurities from interfering with the measurement results. The homogenizer 12 then uniformly mixes the filtered water sample, making the distribution of substances in the water sample more uniform. The uniformly mixed water sample can more stably undergo preliminary oxidation treatment in the pre-oxidation reactor 13, ensuring that the oxidation reaction proceeds uniformly throughout the water sample system, avoiding local over- or under-reaction, and further improving the reliability and repeatability of the measurement results. The pre-oxidation reactor 13 performs preliminary oxidation on the water sample, altering the structure and state of the organic matter, making it easier to be completely oxidized after entering the oxidation reaction unit 3. This improves the efficiency of the oxidation reaction, reduces the processing time of a single sample in the oxidation reaction unit 3, and thus facilitates continuous measurement. The entire water sample pretreatment process is completed through the cooperation of the filter assembly 11, the homogenizer 12, and the pre-oxidation reactor 13. Compared to relying on tedious manual operations such as filtration and reagent addition, this significantly reduces the required time and manpower, and also eliminates the problem of inconsistent and accurate processing due to manual operations on different batches.

[0032] In some embodiments, see Figures 3 to 5The filter assembly 11 includes a housing 111 and a filter structure. The filter structure is detachably disposed at one end of the housing 111 and extends into the housing 111. The side wall of the housing 111 has a plurality of water passage holes 119 circumferentially opened. The water passage holes 119 are located above the part of the filter structure used for filtering water samples. The other end of the housing 111 is connected to the homogenizer 12.

[0033] Furthermore, the filter structure includes a coarse filter layer 112, a medium filter layer 113, a fine filter layer 114, and a sleeve 115. The coarse filter layer 112, the medium filter layer 113, and the fine filter layer 114 are detachably mounted on the sleeve 115 from top to bottom. An end cap 116 is provided at the end of the sleeve 115 away from the interior of the outer casing 111, and the end cap 116 is detachably and sealingly connected to the outer casing 111. The coarse filter layer 112 first intercepts larger particulate impurities, such as larger suspended particles. Its 100µm pore size effectively blocks most large particles that may damage subsequent components or affect measurements. The medium filter layer 113 further filters smaller particles; the polypropylene fiber filter material ensures filtration effectiveness while possessing a certain degree of flexibility and chemical corrosion resistance. The fine filter layer 114 performs fine filtration of tiny particles; the 10µm pore size of the polytetrafluoroethylene microporous membrane filter ensures extremely high purity of the water sample entering subsequent stages. This multi-layered filter structure, with its coarse-to-fine filtration method, can remove impurities of different particle sizes from the water sample, ensuring that subsequent homogenization, oxidation, and other steps are not interfered with by impurities, thus improving the accuracy of the measurement results. For example, if large particles of impurities in the water sample enter oxidation reaction unit 3, they may adsorb organic matter or affect the uniformity of the oxidation reaction, leading to deviations in the measurement results. Furthermore, the coarse filter layer 112, the medium filter layer 113, and the fine filter layer 114 are all mounted on the sleeve 115. The end cap 116 of the sleeve 115 is detachably connected to the outer shell 111. When it is necessary to clean the filter structure or replace the filter layer, simply unscrew the end cap 116 from the outer shell 111 by disassembling the connection between the end cap 116 and the outer shell 111, such as a threaded connection similar to a bottle cap. Then, remove the end cap 116 together with the sleeve 115 from the outer shell 111. This allows for the simultaneous removal of the coarse filter layer 112, the medium filter layer 113, and the fine filter layer 114, facilitating regular cleaning or replacement and reducing maintenance costs.

[0034] For example, the outer shell 111 of the filter assembly 11 is made of stainless steel, which has good corrosion resistance and mechanical strength. Its sidewalls have water passage holes 119 evenly distributed circumferentially, with a moderate pore size, ensuring smooth water flow while preventing large particles from directly impacting the filter structure. The coarse filter layer 112, medium filter layer 113, and fine filter layer 114 in the filter structure are detachably mounted on the sleeve 115 from top to bottom. The coarse filter layer 112 is a stainless steel wire mesh with a pore size of 100 μm. The medium filter layer 113 is a polypropylene fiber filter with a pore size of 50 μm. The fine filter layer 114 is a polytetrafluoroethylene microporous membrane filter with a pore size of 10 μm. The end cap 116 at one end of the sleeve 115 is detachably and sealed to the outer shell 111 by means of threads or snaps, which facilitates the installation, removal and replacement of the filter screen.

[0035] In some embodiments, the inner wall of the housing 111 is provided with a plurality of backwash nozzles 117, which are located below the filter structure and spray in the direction of the backwash nozzles 117 toward the filter structure. The inner wall of the housing 111 is provided with a plurality of pressure sensors 118, some of which are located between the water inlet 119 and the portion of the filter structure used for filtering water samples, and some of which are located below the filter structure. Exemplarily, the plurality of backwash nozzles 117 are arranged on the inner wall of the housing 111 below the filter structure to effectively cover the entire filter surface as much as possible. Simultaneously, the plurality of pressure sensors 118 are distributed between the water inlet 119 and the portion of the filter structure used for filtering water samples, and below the filter structure. The pressure sensors 118 are stably connected to the control unit 5 via wired or wireless means to ensure accurate transmission of pressure data. The backwash nozzle 117 is designed to address filter clogging. When the pressure sensor 118 detects a pressure difference exceeding a set value (e.g., due to impurity accumulation), the control unit 5 initiates the backwashing procedure. High-pressure water is sprayed from the nozzle to backwash the filter, dislodging the attached impurities and discharging them through the drain port at the bottom of the housing 111. The drain port can be a separate opening on the housing 111 with a valve to control its opening and closing. Alternatively, it can be drained directly through the port connecting the housing 111 to the homogenizer 12. If draining through the port connected to the homogenizer 12, the filter assembly 11 and the homogenizer 12 must be disconnected before draining to prevent impurities from falling into the homogenizer 12. By using the backwash nozzle 117 and the pressure sensor 118, the continuous and stable operation of the filter assembly 11 is ensured, preventing interruptions to the water sample pretreatment process due to filter clogging and thus guaranteeing the continuity of the entire measuring device. Pressure sensor 118 monitors pressure changes in real time, providing a precise trigger signal for the backwashing process and helping to detect potential operational problems in the equipment in a timely manner, such as abnormal water pressure caused by pump failure.

[0036] In some embodiments, see Figure 6 The homogenizer 12 includes a stainless steel tank 121, a stirring assembly, and water-blocking plates 124. One end of the stainless steel tank 121 is connected to the filter assembly 11 to receive the water sample filtered by the filter assembly 11. The stirring end of the stirring assembly is located inside the stainless steel tank 121. Multiple water-blocking plates 124 are spaced apart along the circumferential inner wall of the stainless steel tank 121. The stainless steel tank 121 of the homogenizer 12 is made of food-grade 304 stainless steel, and the inner wall of the tank is smooth to reduce water flow resistance and wall adhesion.

[0037] Furthermore, the stirring assembly includes a motor 123 and a stirring paddle 122. The motor 123 is located on the outside of the stainless steel tank 121, and the stirring paddle 122 is located inside the stainless steel tank 121 and extends to the outside of the stainless steel tank 121, connecting to the output end of the motor 123. The edges of the stirring paddle 122 blades are provided with serrated cutting edges. The motor 123 of the stirring assembly is a variable frequency speed control motor 123, which is installed on the shock-absorbing pad 125 on the outside of the tank. It can both support the stainless steel tank 121 and the motor 123, and also reduce the vibration of the motor 123. For example, the shock-absorbing pad 125 is located at the bottom of the stainless steel tank 121, and a mounting groove is formed on the shock-absorbing pad 125. The motor 123 is located in the mounting groove. Shock-absorbing foam can also be provided on the inner wall of the mounting groove to wrap the motor 123, further reducing vibration. The stirring paddle 122 is made of stainless steel. The serrated cutting edges provided on the edges of the stirring paddle 122 blades are sharp and strong, and can effectively cut fibrous impurities in the water sample. Multiple water-blocking plates 124 are welded evenly and at intervals along the inner circumference of the tank body. The height and width of the water-blocking plates 124 are determined according to the tank size and the stirring effect requirements. In this embodiment, the height of the water-blocking plates 124 is in the range of one-third to one-half of the height of the stainless steel tank body 121.

[0038] After the filtered water sample enters the stainless steel tank 121, the stirring assembly begins operation. The variable frequency speed control function of the motor 123 can flexibly adjust the stirring speed according to the properties and flow rate of the water sample. For example, for water samples with high viscosity, the stirring speed can be increased to enhance the mixing effect. The stirring paddle 122 rotates within the tank, generating strong convection and shear forces in the water sample, achieving uniform mixing. Because the uniformly mixed water sample ensures that ultraviolet light can act evenly on the organic matter in the water sample in the pre-oxidation reactor 13, it avoids uneven oxidation caused by excessively high or low local organic matter concentrations. The water baffle 124 further enhances the mixing effect. When the water sample flows through the water baffle 124, the flow direction changes, forming a complex flow field, increasing the residence time and mixing path of the water sample within the tank, making the distribution of substances in the water sample more uniform. The serrated cutting edges of the stirring paddle 122 blades can handle any fibrous impurities that may be present in the water sample, preventing them from becoming entangled on the stirring paddle 122 and affecting the stirring effect or damaging the motor 123. If fibrous impurities become entangled in the stirring paddle 122, it will increase the load on the stirring paddle 122, increase the energy consumption of the motor 123, and may even damage the motor 123, affecting the normal operation of the device. By cutting off the fibrous impurities with the cutting blade, the stable operation of the stirring components is ensured, the reliability and service life of the homogenizer 12 are improved, and thus the stability and accuracy of the entire measurement process are guaranteed.

[0039] In some embodiments, see Figure 7 The oxidation reactor includes a cylindrical tube 131 and an ultraviolet lamp 132. The ultraviolet lamp 132 is located inside the cylindrical tube 131. The cylindrical tube 131 is connected to the homogenizer 12. The inner wall of the cylindrical tube 131 is provided with a reflector 133. The outer wall of the cylindrical tube 131 is fitted with a cooling sleeve 134 for the flow of coolant, so that the coolant can exchange heat with the cylindrical tube 131.

[0040] The cylindrical tube 131 of the pre-oxidation reactor 13 is made of high-purity quartz glass, which has good ultraviolet transmittance and chemical stability. The ultraviolet lamp 132 is a low-pressure mercury lamp; its power and wavelength are determined based on the characteristics of the organic matter in the water sample and the pre-oxidation requirements. It is installed in a quartz sleeve inside the cylindrical tube 131. The reflector 133 is made of aluminum, has a parabolic shape, and its inner wall is polished. It is installed on the inner wall of the cylindrical tube 131 around the ultraviolet lamp 132 to maximize ultraviolet reflection and improve light energy utilization. The cooling sleeve 134 is made of stainless steel and is fitted onto the outer wall of the cylindrical tube 131. A coolant circulation channel is provided inside the cooling sleeve 134. The coolant can be water or a special coolant. A circulation pump circulates the coolant within the channel, exchanging heat with the cylindrical tube 131 to control the internal temperature of the reactor. An ultraviolet intensity sensor is also installed inside the cylindrical tube 131. The ultraviolet intensity sensor is connected to the control unit 5 to monitor the ultraviolet intensity in real time. The coolant circulation channel can be spiral or meandering serpentine to ensure that the coolant circulation channel can cover the side wall of the cylindrical tube 131 as much as possible.

[0041] After the homogenized water sample enters the pre-oxidation reactor 13, it is irradiated with ultraviolet (UV) light emitted from a low-pressure mercury lamp. Due to the parabolic reflector 133 surrounding the UV lamp 132, the UV light is concentrated and reflected into the water sample, increasing the contact opportunity and intensity between the UV light and the water sample, thus improving the pre-oxidation efficiency. For example, for some water samples containing aromatic compounds, UV light can disrupt their benzene ring structure, making them easier to oxidize by the oxidant in the subsequent oxidation reaction unit 3. The cooling sleeve 134 controls the internal temperature of the reactor. During prolonged operation, the UV lamp 132 generates heat; excessively high temperatures may affect the lifespan of the UV lamp 132 and the oxidation effect of the water sample. Cooling liquid circulation removes heat, maintaining a stable internal temperature and ensuring the pre-oxidation reaction proceeds under suitable temperature conditions. A UV intensity sensor monitors the UV intensity in real time and feeds it back to the control unit 5. The control unit 5 adjusts the power of the UV lamp 132 based on the set program and sensor data to compensate for changes in UV intensity caused by lamp aging or changes in water sample properties, ensuring the stability and effectiveness of the pre-oxidation reaction. This pre-oxidation treatment can change the structure and state of some organic matter in the water sample, such as decomposing macromolecular organic matter into small molecular organic matter, increasing the reactivity of organic matter, so that it can be oxidized more quickly and thoroughly after entering the oxidation reaction unit 3, reducing the oxidation time of a single sample in the oxidation reaction unit 3, improving the measurement efficiency of the entire measuring device, and helping to achieve continuous measurement.

[0042] In some embodiments, the sampling pump of the sampling unit 2 is a high-precision peristaltic pump, and its pump tube is made of acid- and alkali-resistant and corrosion-resistant silicone tubing. The speed and flow rate of the peristaltic pump are precisely controlled by the control unit 5. One end of the sampling tube is tightly connected to the liquid outlet of the pre-oxidation reactor 13, and a sealing joint is used to ensure the sealing of the connection. The other end is connected to the liquid inlet of the oxidation reaction unit 3, and the connection method also ensures no leakage.

[0043] The combustion furnace of oxidation reaction unit 3 is made of high-temperature resistant ceramic or alloy materials and is equipped with internal heating elements, such as resistance wires or silicon carbide rods. The heating power is precisely controlled by control unit 5 to maintain the internal temperature of the combustion furnace stably at 900 to 950°C. The catalyst bed is located in a specific position inside the combustion furnace and is filled with a highly efficient platinum-cobalt trioxide catalyst. The particle size and packing density of the catalyst are optimized to ensure good catalytic effect.

[0044] When the water sample delivered by sample introduction unit 2 enters the combustion furnace of oxidation reaction unit 3, the organic matter in the water sample undergoes a vigorous oxidation reaction with oxygen under the combined action of high temperature and catalyst, and is completely oxidized into carbon dioxide. The high temperature of 900 to 950°C enables the decomposition and oxidation of most organic matter, while the platinum-cobalt trioxide catalyst lowers the activation energy of the oxidation reaction, accelerates the reaction process, and improves reaction efficiency and completeness. For example, some complex organic compounds, such as nitrogen-containing and sulfur-containing organics, can also be effectively oxidized into carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and sulfur oxides under these high-temperature catalytic oxidation conditions. The stable high-temperature environment and efficient catalyst ensure the consistency and accuracy of the oxidation reaction, making the measurement results more reliable. Furthermore, it allows for rapid processing of water samples, reducing the processing time for individual samples and facilitating continuous measurement throughout the entire device.

[0045] Detection unit 4 employs a non-dispersive infrared detector. Its internal infrared light source emits infrared light of a specific wavelength. This infrared light passes through the sample gas chamber. When carbon dioxide generated from the oxidation reaction enters the sample gas chamber, it absorbs this specific wavelength of infrared light. Detection unit 4 calculates the carbon dioxide concentration by detecting the degree of infrared light absorption and using Lambert-Beer's law. Detection unit 4 is connected to control unit 5 via a data cable, transmitting the detected carbon dioxide concentration data to control unit 5 in real time. Based on the absorption characteristics of carbon dioxide for specific wavelengths of infrared light, the non-dispersive infrared detector exhibits high sensitivity and selectivity, enabling accurate detection of the carbon dioxide content generated by the oxidation reaction.

[0046] The control unit 5 adopts a programmable logic controller, whose hardware includes a central processing unit, memory, input / output interfaces, etc. These hardware components are all existing technologies, and this part of the structure is not the core inventive point of this application, so it will not be described in detail here.

[0047] The working process of the device for continuously measuring TOC provided in this application is as follows:

[0048] First, the water sample to be tested is connected to the water inlet 119 of the filter assembly 11. The water sample flows in through the water inlet 119 on the side wall of the outer shell 111, first passing through the coarse filter layer 112, where large particles of impurities are intercepted, and then sequentially passing through the medium filter layer 113 and the fine filter layer 114 to obtain a preliminarily purified water sample. During this process, the pressure sensor 118 monitors the pressure changes in real time. The filtered water sample enters the stainless steel tank 121 of the homogenizer 12, the motor 123 of the stirring assembly is started, and the stirring paddle 122 begins to rotate. With the synergistic effect of the water baffle 124, the water sample is thoroughly mixed and homogeneous, while the cutting edge of the stirring paddle 122 blades removes any fibrous impurities that may be present. The homogenized water sample flows into the cylindrical tube 131 of the pre-oxidation reactor 13. The ultraviolet lamp 132 is turned on, and under the action of the reflector 133, ultraviolet light irradiates the water sample for preliminary oxidation. Simultaneously, the cooling liquid in the cooling sleeve 134 circulates to control the internal temperature of the reactor. The ultraviolet intensity sensor monitors the ultraviolet intensity and feeds it back to the control unit 5, which adjusts the power of the ultraviolet lamp 132 accordingly. The pre-oxidized water sample is then steadily delivered to the combustion furnace of the oxidation reaction unit 3 through the sample inlet tube of the sample inlet unit 2, under the action of a high-precision peristaltic pump, according to the set flow rate and time interval. Inside the combustion furnace, under high temperature and the action of a platinum-cobalt trioxide catalyst, the organic matter in the water sample is completely oxidized into carbon dioxide. The carbon dioxide generated by oxidation enters the sample gas chamber of the detection unit 4. The infrared light source of the detection unit 4 emits infrared light, and by detecting the degree to which the infrared light is absorbed by the carbon dioxide, the carbon dioxide concentration is calculated and the data is transmitted to the control unit 5. Based on the received carbon dioxide concentration data, control unit 5 calculates the TOC content of the water sample according to the formula TOC = TC - IC, and displays the measurement results on the operating interface in real time. Simultaneously, it can transmit data to external devices for storage and further analysis. Throughout the process, control unit 5 coordinates the operation of each unit based on feedback signals from various sensors and preset parameters, ensuring continuous and stable operation of the device.

[0049] The basic concepts have been described above. Obviously, for those skilled in the art, the detailed disclosure above is merely illustrative and does not constitute a limitation of this application. Although not explicitly stated herein, those skilled in the art may make various modifications, improvements, and corrections to this application. Such modifications, improvements, and corrections are suggested in this application, and therefore remain within the spirit and scope of the exemplary embodiments of this application.

[0050] Furthermore, this application uses specific terms to describe embodiments of the application. For example, "an embodiment," "one embodiment," and / or "some embodiments" refer to a particular feature, structure, or characteristic associated with at least one embodiment of the application. Therefore, it should be emphasized and noted that "an embodiment," "one embodiment," or "an alternative embodiment" mentioned twice or more in different locations in this specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. In addition, certain features, structures, or characteristics in one or more embodiments of the application can be appropriately combined.

[0051] Similarly, it should be noted that, in order to simplify the description of the present application and thus aid in the understanding of one or more embodiments, the foregoing description of the embodiments of the present application sometimes combines multiple features into a single embodiment, drawing, or description thereof. However, this disclosure method does not imply that the subject matter of the present application requires more features than those mentioned in the claims. In fact, the embodiments contain fewer features than all the features of the single embodiments disclosed above.

[0052] For each patent, patent application, patent application publication, and other material such as articles, books, specifications, publications, and documents referenced in this application, the entire contents of that patent application are incorporated herein by reference, except for historical application documents that are inconsistent with or conflict with the content of this application, and documents that limit the broadest scope of the claims of this application (currently or subsequently appended to this application). It should be noted that if there are any inconsistencies or conflicts between the descriptions, definitions, and / or terminology used in the supplementary materials of this application and the content of this application, the descriptions, definitions, and / or terminology used in this application shall prevail.

[0053] The above are merely preferred embodiments of this application and are not intended to limit this application. Various modifications and variations can be made to this application by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. An apparatus for continuously measuring TOC, characterized in that, It includes an automatic pretreatment unit, a sample injection unit, an oxidation reaction unit, a detection unit, and a control unit. The automatic pretreatment unit is connected to the sample injection unit, the sample injection unit is connected to the oxidation reaction unit, the oxidation reaction unit is connected to the detection unit, and the control unit is electrically connected to the automatic pretreatment unit, the sample injection unit, the oxidation reaction unit, and the detection unit, respectively. The automatic pretreatment unit includes a filter assembly, a homogenizer, and a pre-oxidation reactor connected in sequence. The outlet of the filter assembly is connected to the inlet of the homogenizer, the outlet of the homogenizer is connected to the inlet of the pre-oxidation reactor, and the outlet of the pre-oxidation reactor is connected to the inlet of the sample feeding unit and is used to transport the pretreated water sample to the sample feeding unit.

2. The apparatus for continuously measuring TOC according to claim 1, characterized in that, The filtration assembly includes a housing and a filter structure. The filter structure is detachably disposed at one end of the housing and extends into the housing. The sidewall of the housing has a plurality of water passage holes along the circumference. The water passage holes are located above the part of the filter structure used for filtering water samples. The other end of the housing is connected to the homogenizer.

3. The apparatus for continuously measuring TOC according to claim 2, characterized in that, The filter structure includes a coarse filter layer, a medium filter layer, a fine filter layer, and a sleeve. The coarse filter layer, the medium filter layer, and the fine filter layer are detachably mounted on the sleeve from top to bottom. An end cap is provided at one end of the sleeve away from the interior of the outer shell, and the end cap is detachably and sealingly connected to the outer shell.

4. The apparatus for continuously measuring TOC according to claim 3, characterized in that, The coarse filter layer is made of stainless steel wire mesh, and the pore size of the coarse filter layer is 100um.

5. The apparatus for continuously measuring TOC according to claim 3, characterized in that, The middle filter layer is a polypropylene fiber filter, and the pore size of the middle filter layer is 50 μm.

6. The apparatus for continuously measuring TOC according to claim 3, characterized in that, The fine filter layer is a polytetrafluoroethylene microporous membrane filter, and the pore size of the fine filter layer is 10 μm.

7. The apparatus for continuously measuring TOC according to claim 2, characterized in that, The inner wall of the housing is provided with a plurality of backwash nozzles, which are located below the filter structure and the spray direction of the backwash nozzles is towards the filter structure. The inner wall of the housing is provided with a plurality of pressure sensors, some of which are located between the water inlet and the part of the filter structure used for filtering water samples, and some of which are located below the filter structure.

8. The apparatus for continuously measuring TOC according to claim 1, characterized in that, The homogenizer includes a stainless steel tank, a stirring assembly, and water-blocking plates. One end of the stainless steel tank is connected to the filtration assembly and is used to receive the water sample after filtration by the filtration assembly. The stirring end of the stirring assembly is located inside the stainless steel tank, and multiple water-blocking plates are arranged circumferentially along the inner wall of the stainless steel tank.

9. The apparatus for continuously measuring TOC according to claim 8, characterized in that, The stirring assembly includes a motor and a stirring paddle. The motor is located outside the stainless steel tank, and the stirring paddle is located inside the stainless steel tank and extends to the outside of the stainless steel tank and is connected to the output end of the motor. The edge of the stirring paddle blade is provided with a serrated cutting edge.

10. The apparatus for continuously measuring TOC according to claim 1, characterized in that, The pre-oxidation reactor includes a cylindrical tube and an ultraviolet lamp. The ultraviolet lamp is located inside the cylindrical tube. The cylindrical tube is connected to the homogenizer. The inner wall of the cylindrical tube is provided with a reflector. The outer wall of the cylindrical tube is fitted with a cooling sleeve for the flow of coolant, so that the coolant can exchange heat with the cylindrical tube.

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