Compact membrane electrolyser for production of alkaline ionized water for potable and therapeutic applications

Abstract

The present invention describes the design of low-cost ionizers operated in batch and continuous modes for the production of alkaline water for drinking and medical purposes. The device consists of a titanium-based cathode electrode and mixed metal oxide-coated titanium electrodes as an anode. The feed water of TDS ranging from 250-350 ppm is pre-filtered for removal of turbidity, color, and odor. The clarified water is passed through the anode and cathode chambers separated by high flux nanofiltration (NF) membrane / microporous polyethylene terephthalate for ion transfer. The supply of voltage of 9−36 V facilitates the splitting of the water molecule and the movement of cations across the barrier from anode to cathode.

Description

COMPACT MEMBRANE ELECTROLYSER FOR PRODUCTION OF ALKALINE IONIZED WATER FOR POTABLE AND THERAPEUTIC APPLICATIONSFIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] Present invention provides a compact membrane electrolyser for production of alkaline ionized water (AIW) for potable and therapeutic applications. Particularly, present invention describes the design of two types of batch and continuous electrolysers, which are affordable for the production of potable AIW with several health benefits.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Electrically powered water ionizers have been developed over a century ago for the production of alkaline water for drinking purposes. The device uses the process of electrolysis to separate water molecules for the production of alkaline water. In recent years, a significant rise has been found in the commercial value of alkaline water and electrolyte supplementation which take the form of water ionizer machines such as Enagic (Los Angeles, Calif.) and Chanson (Laguna Hills, Calif.). The limitations of conventional processes include design complexity that leads to high operational and capital costs. The main function of these machines is to separate the normal drinking water into an acidic portion that is disposed of and an alkaline portion that is consumed for better health benefits. Further examples of commercial value are demonstrated by patents and commercial products of alkaline electrolyte supplement water and beverages as well as tablets, capsules, and teas. The present invention of AIW devices categorizes as healthy and immunity-enhancing drinking water. Water produced from the electrolysis process has potential applications in the health field, plant tissue culture / horticulture, and other industrial fields. The invention can be configured in several different ways, to produce healthy alkaline ionized water through theelectrolyzing process using titanium perforated sheets and mixed metal oxide (ruthenium and iridium coated) titanium perforated plates. The resulted ionized alkaline water becomes impurities and pathogens free and rich in minerals and antioxidants. The reject water i.e. acidic water of pH range from 6-7 from the continuous system is collected in a reject tank for domestic cleaning and washing purposes whereas the 3-5 pH water generated from the batch device can be used for cleaning and sterilization applications.

[0003] References may be made to patent US3215626, wherein a potassium tripolyphosphate has been used as an additive to alkaline water enriched with electrolytes and minerals.

[0004] References may be made to patent US005306511, which discloses a process for the production of alkaline water. A highly concentrated alkaline solution of potassium hydroxide with sodium hydroxide was added to normal drinking water to formulate alkaline drinking water with increased oxygen content and pH to be in the range of 9 to 12.

[0005] References may be made to patent US005616221A, which discloses an apparatus for producing electrolytic ionized water (hereinafter referred to as EIW) which is applied for sterilization, anti-oxidation treatment for metal surfaces, and washing and removing various contaminants sticking onto surfaces of solid objects and so on.

[0006] References may be made to patent US005736027A, which discloses a method for producing electrolytic alkaline water and electrolytic acid water by electrolyzing water with the addition of Vitamin C (ascorbic acid 100 %).

[0007] References may be made to patent US005762779A, wherein the invention discloses a method for producing electrolyzed water for wet treatment of semiconductor devices. The method includes the step of applying a voltage to electrodes disposed of an electrolytic cell containing therein pure water including electrolyte therein to generate a strength of an electric field.

[0008] References may be made to patent US005938915A, which discloses a process for the production of water with oxidation-reduction potential value within the range of -150 mV to 0 mV for medical treatment. The produced water is used in dialysis applications for patients suffering from chronic kidney disease.

[0009] References may be made to patent WO 02 / 085794, which discloses an invention of a system for producing alkaline drinking water of pH ranging from 9 to 10 using an electrolysis process.References may be made to patent US005849346A, wherein a concentrated hydroxide solution was added to acidic and alcoholic beverages for acid neutralization. The pH of the final product was found to be between 7 to 11.

[0010] References may be made to patent US006572902B2, wherein the invention discloses a process for producing alkaline drinking water with a pH ranging from 9-10.

[0011] References may be made to patent US007090878 B2, which discloses a process for the production of water fortified with essential minerals for human consumption with a pH ranging between 2.5 and 9.5.

[0012] References may be made to patent US7,785,642B2, which discloses a method for the production of alkaline water with four different groups of elements. The pH of 6.6 to 8.0 was obtained with still water.

[0013] References may be made to patent application WO2008 / 138358 Al, which claimed that the bottled electrolyzed alkaline water was 100 % natural with a pH of 9.5 ± 1.5, being micro-clustered, and with an ORP in the range of -250 to -400 mV.

[0014] References may be made to patent US00561622A, which disclose set up for producing electrolytic ionized water with the help of both ionization as well as the introduction of electrolytes into the raw water. The disclosed apparatus is made up of three-chamber cells one anode, a cathode, and an intermediate chamber.

[0015] References may be made to patent EP 2 222 607 B 1 , wherein they designed an electrolyzer will without a membrane for producing alkaline and or acidic water,where the electric potential is applied to the electrodes for producing alkaline water and to remove the scales deposited on the electrodes reverse potential was applied.

[0016] References may be made to patent application WO 2016 / 133941 Al, where the invention discloses the production of alkaline ionized water by utilizing a combination of reducing metals and reducing minerals instead of electric potential. This process is mentioned in the ion dispersion method. In this method, the pH can be adjusted by varying the contact time with a solvent with a reducing material.

[0017] References may be made to patent application WO 2008 / 138358 Al, which claimed that the ability of this water to decrease free radicals and active oxygen and render them harmless is due to its negative ORP (-250 to -400 mV). As a result, many dangerous diseases such as cancer, renal disease, liver disease, and any disease caused by the oxidation of human cells are prevented.

[0018] References may be made to Journal “Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications, 234 (1), 1997, 269-274” wherein Shirahata et al. studied the properties of electrolyzed reduced water (ERW) named alkaline ionized water (AIW) and reported that it showed a superoxide dismutase-like activity in protecting against oxidative damage, alleviating oxidative damage of DNA molecules and other species in vitro.

[0019] References may be made to Journal “Applied Biochemistry and Biotechnology, 135 (2), 2006, 133-144”, wherein Lee et al. experimentally proved that the electrolyzed reduced water (ERW) prevented oxidative cleavage of proteins and also stimulated the activity of free radical scavenger and ascorbic acid.

[0020] References may be made to Journal “Bioscience, Biotechnology and Biochemistry, 69 (10), 2005, 1985-1987”, wherein Yanagihara et al. studied that rats drinking ERW for one week showed a significant reduction in amounts of peroxidized lipid in their urine, and reduced oxidative stress in the rats.

[0021] The present invention relates to the design of compact and low-cost devices for the production of alkaline water enriched with antioxidants for human consumption.Both the devices are cost-effective for the common man, unlike other ionizers that are highly expensive. The water molecule from the device has a micro-clustered structure that gets easily absorbed into the human body and increases cell hydration.OBJECTIVES OF THE INVENTION

[0022] The main objective of the present invention is to provides a compact membrane electrolyser for production of alkaline ionized water (AIW) for potable and therapeutic applications.

[0023] Another object of the present invention is to produce alkaline ionized water with a pH range of 8.5-10 from a customized-design membrane -based alkaline water cell.

[0024] Yet another objective of the present invention is to develop two types of ionizer devices such as batch and continuous with 8 L / batch and 12 L / h capacities respectively.

[0025] Yet another objective of the present invention is to synthesize the high-flux nanofiltration acid-resistant membrane (HF-NF-300 AR membrane) having a molecular weight of 300.

[0026] Yet another objective of the present invention is the development of non- corrosive Ruthenium and Iridium mixed metal oxide coated titanium-based electrodes for the prevention of oxidation and to improve the catalytic activity also stability.

[0027] Yet another objective of the present invention is to estimate the performance of the electrolyzers in terms of long-term operation.

[0028] Yet another objective of the present invention is to optimize the voltage to be applied for the electrolyzer in both batch and continuous devices.

[0029] Yet another objective of the present invention is to optimize the distance between the electrodes in the electrolyzers as it is the main factor in the design of electrolyzers.

[0030] Yet another object of the present invention is to produce alkaline ionized water which provides protective and therapeutic benefits against oxidative stress-related disorders such as diabetes, cancer, arteriosclerosis, neurological diseases, and hemodialysis-related adverse effects.

[0031] Yet another objective of the present invention is to test the quality of alkaline water for trace metal ions using an Inductive Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometer (ICP-OES) and the anti-oxidative nature found by the oxidationreduction potential (ORP) meter.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0032] Accordingly, present invention provides a device for the production of potable Alkaline Ionized Water (AIW) from tap water for therapeutic applications comprising: i. an anode chamber; ii. a cathode chamber; iii. barrier between the chambers; iv. titanium-based cathode electrode; v. mixed metal oxide (MMO) -coated titanium anode electrode; vi. a DC adapter for connecting the two electrodes.

[0033] In an embodiment of the present invention, barrier is two polymeric membrane is selected from indigenously synthesized nanofiltration (NF) and ultrafiltration (UF) polymeric membranes.

[0034] In another embodiment of the present invention, mixed metal oxide-coated titanium anode electrode used is a Ruthenium and Iridium mixed metal oxide coated on perforated titanium electrode.

[0035] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, titanium-based cathode electrode is titanium grade II sheet without any coating.

[0036] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, said device / electrolyzer is used for batch and continuous production of potable Alkaline Ionized Water (AIW).

[0037] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, total dissolved solids content of Alkaline Ionized Water (AIW) is <500 mg / L.

[0038] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, negative oxidative reduction potential of Alkaline Ionized Water (AIW) is in the range of -100 mV to - 600 mV.

[0039] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the device produces immunity boosting alkaline ionized water and provides protective and therapeutic benefits against oxidative stress-related disorders, including type I and II diabetes, cancer, acid reflux, renal failure, arteriosclerosis, neurological diseases, and hemodialysis-related adverse effects.

[0040] In yet another embodiment, present invention provides a process for the production of alkaline ionized water from tap water using the device as disclosed herein, comprising the steps of: i. pre-filtering the tap water using activated carbon, sediment, UF prefilter, and UV disinfection to obtain pre-filtered water; ii. filling the pre-filtered water as obtained in step (i) in the two chambers of the membrane- aided batch and continuous water electrolyzer device; iii. connecting the two electrodes to a DC adapter and applying potential gradient across the electrodes that facilitates the movement of ions; iv. cations which are essential for our body such as calcium (Ca), potassium (K), sodium (Na), and magnesium (Mg) move towards the cathode compartment; v. anions such as carbonates, bicarbonates, nitrates, and sulfates move towards the anode compartment; vi. water in the cathode compartment is enriched with minerals and rich in antioxidants and becomes alkaline ionized water with pH in the range of 8.5 to 10.5 for Batch mode and 9-9.5 for continuous mode.vii. water in the anode compartment is depleted of ions and becomes acidic water with pH in the range of 6 to 7 and can be used for domestic cleaning and washing purposes..

[0041] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the batch design provides alkaline ionized water @ 8 L / batch wherein each batch duration lasts 30 to 60 min to achieve alkaline ionized water of pH 8.5 to 9.0 whereas the continuous device works on a 12 L / h capacity alkaline ionized water that utilizes low-cost materials.

[0042] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present subject matter will be better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims. This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0043] The following drawings form a part of the present specification and are included to further illustrate aspects of the present disclosure. The disclosure may be better understood by reference to the drawings in combination with the detailed description of the specific embodiments presented herein.

[0044] Fig. 1 represents principle of alkaline water electrolyzer, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] Fig. 2 represents batch Alkaline Ionized Water Unit with Chemically Inert Nanofiltration Membrane and Ruthenium coated Titanium Anode, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] Fig. 3 is schematic representation of Nanofiltration membrane- aided water electrolyzer, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] Fig. 4 represents cylindrical Alkaline Ionized Water Unit with perforated electrodes mounted on skid with pre-filters operating at 12 L / h and producing 9.5 pHalkaline water with 12 V DC supply (a) Front View (b) and (c) Side views, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] Fig. 5 is schematic representation of membrane-aided water analyzer, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] Fig. 6 is schematic representation of membrane-aided water analyzer, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0050] Fig. 7 represents effect of time Vs pH @ 12 V of batch AIW, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] Fig. 8 represents effect of time Vs pH @ 24 V of batch AIW, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052] Fig. 9 represents effect of time Vs pH @ 36 V of batch AIW, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0053] Fig. 10 represents effect of time Vs ORP @ 36 V of batch AIW, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0054] Fig. 11 represents effect of time Vs pH @ 36 V of a continuous electrolyzer, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0055] Fig. 12 represents voltage Vs pH of alkaline water using membrane spacer, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0056] Fig. 13 represents effect of time Vs pH using spacer @ 12 V, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0057] Those skilled in the art will be aware that the present disclosure is subject to variations and modifications other than those specifically described. It is to be understood that the present disclosure includes all such variations and modifications. The disclosure also includes all such steps, features, compositions, and compounds referred to or indicated in this specification, individually or collectively, and any and all combinations of any or more of such steps or features.Definitions

[0058] For convenience, before further description of the present disclosure, certain terms employed in the specification, and examples are delineated here. These definitions should be read in the light of the remainder of the disclosure and understood as by a person of skill in the art. The terms used herein have the meanings recognized and known to those of skill in the art, however, for convenience and completeness, particular terms and their meanings are set forth below.

[0059] The articles “a”, “an” and “the” are used to refer to one or to more than one (i.e., to at least one) of the grammatical object of the article.

[0060] The terms “comprise” and “comprising” are used in the inclusive, open sense, meaning that additional elements may be included. It is not intended to be construed as “consists of only”.

[0061] Throughout this specification, unless the context requires otherwise the word “comprise”, and variations such as “comprises” and “comprising”, will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element or step or group of element or steps but not the exclusion of any other element or step or group of element or steps.

[0062] The term “including” is used to mean “including but not limited to”. “Including” and “including but not limited to” are used interchangeably.

[0063] The present invention comprises a device for producing healthy alkaline ionized water from tap water with a total dissolved solid content of <500 mg / L. The method for the production of alkaline ionized water from tap water comprises the following steps:

[0064] A membrane-aided batch and continuous water electrolyzer device work on the principle of electrolysis (Fig. 1). The cell consists of two chambers i.e., anode chamber and a cathode chamber separated by a membrane. The two chambers of the cell are filled with pre-filtered water. A Ruthenium and Iridium mixed metal oxide coated titanium perforated electrode served as an anode, whereas, a titanium electrode was used for measuring cathode potential. The two electrodes are connected to a DCadapter. The applied potential gradient across the electrodes facilitates the movement of ions. The cations which are essential for our body such as calcium (Ca), potassium (K), sodium (Na), and magnesium (Mg) move towards the cathode compartment, wherein anions such as carbonates, bicarbonates, nitrates, and sulfates move towards the anode compartment. Water in the cathode compartment is enriched with minerals and rich in anti-oxidants and becomes alkaline ionized water, while water in the anode compartment is depleted of ions and becomes acidic water. The oxidation-reduction reaction takes place at the anode and cathode, respectively. The OH- ions lose electrons to the positively charged anode to produce O2 gas which further leads to an increase in H+ion concentration in the anode chamber. Thus, the water pH in the anode chamber gradually decreases. The reduction reactions near the cathode generate H+ions and OH- ions. The H+ions take up the electrons from the negatively charged cathode to produce H2 and active hydrogen, which results in the accumulation of OH- ions in the cathode chamber. These ions cause alkalinity to the reduced water in the cathode chamber. The H2 gas and active hydrogen evolved near the cathode, and partially dissolve in alkaline water. The alkaline ionized water produced from the device has desired total dissolved solids (TDS) of 250 - 350 ppm and a pH of 8.5 to 10 for human consumption, whereas acidic water with a pH of 6 to 7 can be reused for domestic applications. a. Reaction at Anode: Oxidation• 4H2O + 4e- 4OH" + 4H++ 4e-• 4OH" 02 $ + 2H2O + 4e"• 2H2O — O2 $+ 4H++ 4e“ (Overall reactaion) b. Reaction at Cathode: Reduction• 2H2O + 2e" 2OH" + 2H++ 2e"• 2H++ 2e“ — ► H2 $• 2H++ 2e“ — 2H (Active Hydrogen)• 2H2O + 2e — H2 $ + 20H (Overall reaction)

[0065] The produced AIW water from both systems has a negative oxidationreduction potential (ORP) and pH alkaline. Consumption of this water can scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the body and reduce inflammation while also protecting deoxyribonucleic acid from oxidative damage. The alkaline water is thought to help neutralize the acid in the body's bloodstream. Drinking water with a higher pH is claimed to boost metabolism and improve the body's ability to absorb essential nutrients. Ionized alkaline water is intended to provide protective and therapeutic benefits against oxidative stress-related disorders such as cancer, diabetes, neurological diseases, arteriosclerosis, and hemodialysis-related adverse effects.

[0066] Both devices disclosed in the present invention are made up of an acrylic body with Ruthenium-Iridium mixed metal oxide coated titanium anode electrode and titanium grade II sheet without any coating as a cathode. The anode electrodes used in the present invention for both devices were coated with Ruthenium (Ru) and Iridium (Ir) oxides through the electrodeposition method on a titanium grade II sheet. Ru and Ir metals are the alloys of the platinum group, which help the electrode from its oxidation as well as improve the stability and long-term durability. In the batch device, a high flux nanofiltration acid-resistant (HF-NF 300 AR) membrane was used as a barrier for selective ion transfer between the acidic and alkaline chambers. In the continuous type of electrolyzer, an indigenously synthesized high flux ultrafiltration membrane was used as a barrier for the separation of two chambers. Several studies were carried out with continuous electrolyzer using different membranes such as HF- NF 300 AR, and microporous hydrophobic polyethylene terephthalate (PET) layer. The batch type of AIW device can produce / batch of alkaline water in an hour with a pH of 10.5 and ORP of -100 to -600 mV, which can be used for drinking applications. The cylindrical design of the AIW device produces 12 L / h of alkaline water continuously. To prevent leakages in both types of cells low-cost silicon gaskets and Anabond 666T were used. Anabond 666T is a non-corrosive and nontoxic silicone sealant that wasapplied to fix the AIW devices. The continuous mode electrolyzer device disclosed in the present invention is pump-free and requires a 12 Volts AC-DC power supply to generate a 9.5 pH of alkaline water. The acidic water generated from the continuous electrolyzer design has a pH in the range of 6-7 and can be used for gardening, and cleaning purposes in domestic applications. Similarly, the 3-6 pH of acidic water produced from the batch electrolyzer can be used for various applications like mouth care, antiseptic, medical sterilization, hair care, cleaning solutions, etc. This water is ideal for hand washing and is also used to wash vegetables and fruits for the removal of undesirable particles like pesticides and microorganisms present on its surface.

[0067] The devices included titanium and ruthenium and iridium-coated titanium perforated plates as electrodes with a membrane as a barrier for the production of toxin- free water enriched with essential minerals, ions, and antioxidant properties.

[0068] Drinking water with a higher pH will boost the body’s metabolism and improve the ability to absorb essential nutrients. The consumption of alkaline water with a pH of 9 to 9.5 with negative oxidative reduction potential can keep the body hydration, maintain the blood pH and also improve immunity.

[0069] The device of the present disclosure consists of a titanium-based cathode electrode and mixed metal oxide-coated titanium electrodes as an anode. The feed water of TDS ranging from 250-350 ppm is pre-filtered for removal of turbidity, color, and odor. The clarified water is passed through the anode and cathode chambers separated by high flux nanofiltration (NF) membrane / microporous polyethylene terephthalate for ion transfer. The supply of voltage of 9-36 V facilitates the splitting of the water molecule and the movement of cations across the barrier from anode to cathodeHydrogen gas gets eluted out at the cathode side that is thereby enriched in OH’ ions and the essential minerals. A negative oxidative reduction potential (ORP) of -100 mV to -600 mV is achieved which neutralizes reactive oxygen. The alkaline ionized water of pH 8-10 produced from the cathode side of the ionizer has been tested for toxic metals and pathogens, whereas the acidic water of pH less than 7 generated at theanode side can be utilized for cleaning and washing purpose. The alkaline ionizer costs just $ 100-150 as compared to the highly expensive alkaline water generators supplied by multinational companies. The operating cost is found to be only Rs 1.0 per L of alkaline ionized water produced.

[0070] The cost of the designed AWI is estimated and compared with commercially available designs in the market. The liquid obtained is therapeutic water at just <Rs.l per L, wherein the water which is available in the market with different brands is more than Rs. 1000 / - per Lit.Batch AIW Device

[0071] Batch Alkaline Ionized Water Unit has been developed as a low-cost alkaline ionized water generator for drinking purposes (Fig. 2). It is operated in batch mode producing 8 liters of alkaline water per operation at a pH ranging from 8.5 to 10.5 depending on the duration of the electrical ionization input provided. The unit is fabricated by customizing a pre-existing drinking water skid that is easily available in the commercial market. It is divided into two segments, a pre-filtration segment which comprises activated carbon, sediment, UF prefilter, and UV disinfection, and an alkaline ionization segment which comprises electrodes and a membrane separator operated with DC electrical input shown as a schematic form in Fig. 3. Raw water is initially purified and disinfected before pumping into the ionization chamber using a switch control and an optimized flow rate to simultaneously fill the 3L acidic chamber and 8L alkaline chambers up to the mark. Electrical input is provided through a 24V DC power supply unit operated using a switch located at the front of the unit. Based on the volumes of the acidic and alkaline chambers proportionate electrode dimensions have been chosen respectively and are placed at an optimal inter-electrode distance that provides efficient alkalization and electrode durability. Acidic and alkaline chambers are separated by an indigenously developed membrane that enables selective ion flow and pH retention in the respective chambers. Once the chambers are filled up to themark, the ionizer is switched on, based on the desired pH it can be turned off, alkaline water generated can be collected using the dispenser tap located at the front bottom of the alkaline chamber, and the acidic water can be discarded through a separate tubing at the back of the reactor. It is observed that the alkaline water has been retaining its pH for over 8 h in the reactor even after the ionizer is switched off, which is ideal for consumption throughout the day in a common household. The reactor has been also equipped with a self-cleaning mechanism through a voltage reversal switch that can clean the electrode depositions and perform periodic maintenance.Continuous AIW Device

[0072] A continuous mode of alkaline ionized water device made using a low-cost acrylic material with a desired output flow rate of 12 L / h (Fig. 4 a, b, c). The produced alkaline water from the device pH range is between 9-9.5 with an ORP range of -100 to -600 mV. The developed cylindrical AIW rector model reduced the inter-electrode distance thereby increasing the ionization and the reactor also houses a larger surface area electrode that enables higher water electrolysis. The reactor is configured to have an up-flow mechanism that increases the contact time even at a higher flow rate. Distinguished ports have been included for both the anodic and cathode chambers for raw water inlet, outlet product water, electrode connections, sampling, and flow-rate adjustment. The top of the reactor is provided with two separate openings apart from outlet ports to facilitate the incorporation of online monitoring probes (for pH, conductivity, etc), for the insertion of additional electrodes through a suspension mechanism, and for a digital flow-meter to monitor and regulate the output flow to obtain the desired alkaline water pH. The schematic diagram of the device is shown in Fig. 5 and Fig. 6.Electrode coating

[0073] Ruthenium-coated Titanium Anodes are mixed-metal oxide (MMO) anodes used in electroplating, water treatment, and other electronic applications. Ruthenium- coated Titanium Anodes are generally immediately available in most volumes. They can be fabricated in forms such as sheet, mesh, perforated plate, rod, or wire. Titanium anodes activated by noble metal oxides possess a wide range of advantages and applications. The coating of titanium anodes by highly conductive oxides of noble metals (Ru, Ir, Pt) dramatically increases the lifetime of these anodes.

[0074] RuC -coating on a titanium plate was synthesized by a conventional dipcoating method. A pre-determined concentration solution of (100 atoms) ruthenium chloride and (25 atoms) chloroplatinic acid was prepared in water and glycol. The titanium substrates were washed with deionized water before the dipping procedure. Calcination of the dip-coated salts was performed at 350 °C. The dip- drying / calculations procedure was repeated several times to obtain the required thickness. The thickness of the coating was measured using a screw gauge.

[0075] The detailed coating procedure of mixed metal oxides on a titanium plate is described as follows:

[0076] Ruthenium-iridium metal oxide coating on a titanium plate was synthesized by a conventional dip-coating method. A pre-determined concentration solution of ( 100 atoms) ruthenium chloride, (25 atoms) iridium chloride and (25 atoms) chloroplatinic acid was prepared in water and glycol. The titanium substrates were washed with deionized water before the dipping procedure. Calcination of the dip-coated salts was performed at 350°C. The dip-drying / calculations procedure was repeated several times to obtain the required thickness. The thickness of the coating was measured using a screw gauge.

[0077] EXAMPLES

[0078] The following examples have been given by the way of illustration and therefore should not be constructed to limit the present invention.Example 1: Batch alkaline water electrolyzer performance at 12 V power supply

[0079] The alkaline water pH with different time intervals is shown in Fig. 7. The graphs start with the reading after an operating time of 15 min, then the reading of alkaline and acidic water was found to be 8.66 and 6.77. On the same day, after 5 hrs of operation, the pH of alkaline water increased to 9.5, and acidic water pH reduced to 5.72. The process of ionization was stopped after 5hrs of operation by switching off the power supply and kept for overnight stagnation. Hence the values of alkaline and acidic water were observed as 8.94 and 5.72. The variation of pH over 162 hrs of operation with different time intervals was studied. The average pH observed for every 5 hrs of operation was found to be in the range of 9.5 to 10.

[0080] Average raw water pH: 7.52

[0081] Average raw water conductivity: 0.387 mS / cmExample 2: Batch alkaline water electrolyzer performance at 24 V power supply

[0082] In this study, the experiment was carried out at 24 V of AC-DC power supply with an overall operating time of 540 h. Fig. 8 represents the graph between the time pH, where blue indicates the alkaline water and the red line represents the acidic water. In each batch of the experiment, the alkaline water pH was increased from 7 to 8.5 in one hour. As pH of the alkaline water was increased to 10.5 and acidic water pH was 2 to 3 range with an operating time of 8 h during the ionization process. The pH of alkaline and acidic water was maintained consistently up to 540 h of operation.Operating conditions

[0083] Raw water pH: 7

[0084] Average raw water conductivity: 0.410 mS / cmExample 3: Batch alkaline water electrolyzer performance at 36 V power supply

[0085] The Batch AIW device was operated at different voltages and Fig. 9 represents the results at a 36 V power supply. Initially, the pH of raw water neutralized to7 pH by adding hydrochloric acid. As time increased from 30 min to 6.5 hrs the pH of alkaline water increases from 8.8 to 10.39, as well as the acidic water pH decreased from 6.12 to 2. After overnight stagnation, the alkaline and acidic water pH were found to be 10.11 and 2.25 respectively. The experiment was carried out at 36 V up to 79 hrs and readings were provided in Fig. 9 in different time intervals.Operating conditions

[0086] Average raw water pH: 7

[0087] Average raw water conductivity: 0.418 mS / cmExample 4: Effect of ORP Vs operating time for batch reactor 36 V power supply

[0088] Fig. 10 illustrates the results of oxidative reduction potential (ORP) results when the device operated at 36 V of operation. As time increased from 30 min to 3.5 hrs the ORP of alkaline water ORP was increased in the negative direction, whereas the ORP of acidic water increased in a positive direction. After 30 min of switching on the power supply, the ORP of alkaline water was reduced to -212 mV and acidic water's ORP was increased to 350 mV. During different intervals of time, the ORP values of alkaline and acidic water were observed and the graph showed that it was consistent in every batch.Operating conditions:

[0089] Average raw water pH: 7

[0090] Average raw water conductivity: 0.418 mS / cm.Example 5: Continuous alkaline water electrolyzer device using UF membrane at 36 V

[0091] The continuous AIW device operated at different voltages using a UF membrane as a barrier. Table 1 represents the one-day performance of the electrolyzer operated for up to 6 hrs by maintaining the alkaline and acidic flow rates of 26.2 and 28.2 / h respectively. The alkaline and acidic water pH at various time intervals are shown in Fig. 11. The average pH of the alkaline and acidic water after 6 h was found to be 10.2 and 6.9. The rate of increment in the pH was observed as 2.0. After 120 hrs of operation, the pH of alkaline water was observed as 9.8.Operating conditions:

[0092] Average raw water pH: 8.17

[0093] Average raw water conductivity: 0.40 mS / cm

[0094] Electrodes used: Ru and Ir Coated Ti electrodes

[0095] Table 1 : Alkaline and Acidic pH at different timeExample 6: Continuous alkaline water electrolyzer using membrane spacer as a barrier

[0096] The performance of the cylindrical type of ionizer was evaluated by varying the voltages of 9, 12, 16, 18, and 24 Volts. Fig. 12 is indicating that the pH of the alkaline water increases by increasing the applied voltage. The Maximum pH achieved i.e., 9.919 at the voltage of 24 and a minimum of 9.155 pH were observed at 9 Volts with a flow rate of 10 L / h of alkaline water. The alkaline water pH attained at various voltages was provided in Table 2.Operating Conditions:

[0097] Barrier: Micro porous hydrophobic polyethylene terephthalate (PETSpacer)

[0098] Electrodes used: Ruthenium Coated Ti electrode on the anode side andTitanium electrode on the cathode side

[0099] Average raw water pH: 7.83[000100] Average raw water conductivity: 0.437 mS / cm[000101] Table 2: Voltage Vs alkaline water pHExample 8: Effect of pH versus time at a reduced distance between the electrodes[000102] An experimental trial was conducted by reducing the distance between the electrodes by 6mm. Fig. 13 illustrates the acidic and alkaline water pH values at various time intervals. The average pH of alkaline and acidic water after 6 h was found to be 10.42 and 6.23. The corresponding ORP values were observed as -673.1 and 799 mV, which can be seen in table 3. Up to 62 h, the experiment was continued and the range of alkaline water was observed as 9.5 to 10, whereas the observed acidic water pH is in the range of 6-6.5.Operating Conditions:[000103] Barrier: Spacer[000104] Distance between electrodes: 6mm[000105] Average Feed water pH: 7.4[000106] Conductivity: 0.510 mS / cm[000107] ORP: 307.4 mV[000108] Applied Voltage: 12.0 VExample 9: Effect of time versus ORP using spacer at 12 V5 [000109] In this study, the effect of ORP as time increased was studied and it was shown in the Table. 3. The average ORP of alkaline water was found to be -673.1 mV up to 6 hrs, whereas the acidic water ORP was found to be 799 mV. ORP readings of both alkaline and acidic water were shown at different time intervals, and these readings were depending upon the raw water pH, conductivity, and flow rates of 0 alkaline and acidic water.[000110] Table 3 : The performance of the continuous electrolyzer operated at12 VExample 10: Cost estimation for Batch and Continuous Mode AIW devices 5 I) Batch AIW Electrolyzer[000111] Capacity: 8 L / h[000112] Operating hours per day: 2 h(a) Capital cost[000113] Table 4: List of equipment and cost details for batch electrolyzer(b) Operating cost[000114] Table 5: Operating cost details for batch electrolyserII) Continuous AIW Electrolyzer[000115] Capacity: 12 L / h[000116] Operating hours per day: 1 h [000117] Capital cost:[000118] Table 6: List of equipment and cost details for Continuous AIW Unit[000119] Table 7: Operating cost details for Continuous AIW UnitExample 11: Inductively coupled plasma - optical emission spectrometry (ICP- OES) analysis for feed, alkaline, and acidic water [000120] The heavy metals present in feed water (Tap water), alkaline water, and acidic water were analyzed by inductively coupled plasma - optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). Metal quantities present in the water were listed in table 4.Essential minerals like Na, Ca and Mg were high in the alkaline water compared to acidic water.[000121] Table 8: ICP-OES analysis for feed, alkaline, and acidic water along with their drinking water BIS permissible limitsADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION[000122] The advantages of the present invention are as follows:(a) The developed batch and continuous mode of alkaline water ionisers are eco- friendly and inexpensive compared to the conventional ionizers.(b) Consumption of mineral enriched alkaline water neutralizes the acidic nature in the body’s bloodstream and improves the absorption capacity of essential nutrients and makes the body hydrated at a faster rate.(c) The developed mixed metal oxide coated titanium electrode is highly stable even on a longer operational time and high voltage (24 - 48 VDC).(d) The designed ionisers are capable of producing alkaline water with a pH of 8-10 and ORP of -100 to -600 mV and water flow rate of 8-12 L / h.(e) Zero water wastage from the ioniser, since the produced alkaline water can be used for potable and therapeutic applications, whereas the acidic water can be used for cleaning applications, especially for the removal of waxes present on the fruits and vegetables.(f) The capital cost of the developed ionisers is nearly 10 times lower than the commercially available devices whereas the operating cost is around Rs. 1 / - per litre of alkaline ionized water produced.

Claims

We claim1. A device for the production of potable Alkaline Ionized Water (AIW) from tap water for therapeutic applications comprising: i. an anode chamber; ii. a cathode chamber; iii. barrier between the chambers; iv. titanium-based cathode electrode; v. mixed metal oxide (MMO) -coated titanium anode electrode; vi. a DC adapter for connecting the two electrodes.

2. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein barrier is two polymeric membrane selected from indigenously synthesized nanofiltration (NF) and ultrafiltration (UF) polymeric membranes.

3. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein mixed metal oxide-coated titanium anode electrode used is a Ruthenium and Iridium mixed metal oxide coated on perforated titanium electrode.

4. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein titanium-based cathode electrode is titanium grade II sheet without any coating.

5. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said device / electrolyzer is used for batch and continuous production of potable Alkaline Ionized Water (AIW).

6. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein total dissolved solids content of Alkaline Ionized Water (AIW) is <500 mg / L.

7. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein negative oxidative reduction potential of Alkaline Ionized Water (AIW) is in the range of -100 mV to -600 mV.

8. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the device produces immunity boosting alkaline ionized water and provides protective and therapeutic benefits against oxidative stress-related disorders, including type I and II diabetes, cancer, acid reflux, renal failure, arteriosclerosis, neurological diseases, and hemodialysis-related adverse effects.

9. A process for the production of alkaline ionized water from tap water using the device as claimed in claim 1 comprising the steps of: i. pre-filtering the tap water using activated carbon, sediment, UF prefilter, and UV disinfection to obtain pre-filtered water; ii. filling the pre-filtered water as obtained in step (i) in the two chambers of the membrane- aided batch and continuous water electrolyzer device; iii. connecting the two electrodes to a DC adapter and applying potential gradient across the electrodes that facilitates the movement of ions; iv. cations which are essential for our body such as calcium (Ca), potassium (K), sodium (Na), and magnesium (Mg) move towards the cathode compartment; v. anions such as carbonates, bicarbonates, nitrates, and sulfates move towards the anode compartment; vi. water in the cathode compartment is enriched with minerals and rich in antioxidants and becomes alkaline ionized water with pH in the range of 8.5 to 10.5 for Batch mode and 9-9.5 for continuous mode; and vii. water in the anode compartment is depleted of ions and becomes acidic water with pH in the range of 6 to 7 and can be used for domestic cleaning and washing purposes.

10. The process as claimed in claim 1, wherein the batch design provides alkaline ionized water @ 8 L / batch wherein each batch duration lasts 30 to 60 min to achieve alkaline ionized water of pH 8.5 to 9.0 whereas the continuous device works on a 12 L / h capacity alkaline ionized water that utilizes low-cost materials.

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