Device for dissolving gases in complex liquid media

EP4803183A1Pending Publication Date: 2026-09-09GAMBIN MANZANO JOSÉ MIGUEL
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Patent Information

Application Number
EP2026382253
Authority / Receiving Office
EP · EP
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2025-02-27
Filing Date
2026-02-27
Publication Date
2026-09-09

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

The main technological need arises from the problems related to the equipment used thus far to dissolve gases, especially ozone, in complex liquid media such as vegetable oils, sludge with high concentrations of solids and slurry.

Benefits of technology

[0010]The device of the invention is designed to operate at high pressures and speeds of both gas and fluids, which allows its use with viscous liquids and/or with high concentrations of solids. These features make it possible to achieve an ozone dissolution rate higher than 95%, and in the range of 96-100% under optimum conditions.

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Abstract

A modular device for dissolving gases in complex liquid media, which comprises the following modules connected in fluid communication: i.) a Venturi module comprising the following modules: - an inlet module (10), with a gas inlet, a liquid inlet, and an interchangeable nozzle configured to reduce the diameter of the inlet; - a first depressurisation module (11) configured to receive the flow from the inlet module (10), with a flow inlet and a first depressurisation chamber having a diameter larger than the diameter of the interchangeable nozzle of the module (10); - a second depressurisation module (12) configured to receive the flow from the first depressurisation module (11), with a second depressurisation chamber having a diameter smaller than the diameter of the first depressurisation chamber; ii.) a cavitation module comprising the following modules: - a transition module (13) configured to receive the flow from the second depressurisation module (12) or from a gas inlet, with an interchangeable nozzle configured to adapt to the appropriate process conditions; - a cavitation module (14) configured to receive the flow from the transition module (13), with a complex liquid media inlet and a cavitation chamber configured to generate cavitation of the complex liquid media together with the flow from the transition module (13); and - a stabilisation module (15) configured to receive the liquid medium from the cavitation module (14), with an interchangeable nozzle configured to adapt to the appropriate process conditions.
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Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention belongs to the field of chemical engineering equipment, specifically to the mixing and dissolving of gas-liquid fluids. In particular, the invention consists of a device for dissolving gas in liquid media with high viscosity and / or high concentration of dissolved solids.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The main technological need arises from the problems related to the equipment used thus far to dissolve gases, especially ozone, in complex liquid media such as vegetable oils, sludge with high concentrations of solids and slurry. Various types of equipment are currently used to achieve this goal, including diffusers, Venturi systems and static mixers.

[0003] Diffusers face problems of clogging, low dissolution efficiency and high maintenance requirements. Although there are several types of diffusers, focus will be placed on those suitable for ozone application. Membrane diffusers, such as those made of EPDM and silicone, may not be exposed to ozone concentrations exceeding 10%. On the other hand, ceramic diffusers are compatible with ozone (provided they are exclusively ceramic or made of stainless steel) and offer good transfer in aqueous media. However, under conditions with a high quantity of solids, they tend to become soiled due to pore clogging, requiring frequent cleaning with acid and pressurised water to restore their performance. This results in high maintenance costs and a rapid decrease in efficiency.

[0004] In the case of Venturi equipment, these systems face significant challenges, such as blockage due to solids, and their performance suffers under high viscosity conditions due to their limited pitch diameters. Furthermore, they often require an additional system to optimise dissolution. Depending on the pitch diameter and, in particular, the working pressure, it is common to have clogging problems inside the Venturi, which makes it difficult to mix the gas with the liquid or viscous medium.

[0005] Lastly, in the case of static mixers, these systems face problems of erosion caused by solids in the inner pipes, as well as clogging. Furthermore, they require high flows to maintain a turbulent regime, which implies high maintenance.

[0006] As mentioned, each type of device has its own advantages and drawbacks. Under ideal conditions (liquids without solids and / or with low viscosity), gas dissolution rates for the three types of devices typically range between 85-90%, 60-75% and 90-95%. However, these dissolution rates drop rapidly in the presence of viscous liquids or liquids with a high solids content.

[0007] It is therefore essential to have equipment that facilitates the dissolution of gases, such as ozone, in complex liquid media, such as vegetable oils, sludge with high concentrations of solids and slurry, while maintaining an optimal dissolution rate and avoiding the drawbacks of conventional equipment.

[0008] The present invention offers a solution to this challenge.DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] The first aspect of the invention relates to a modular device for dissolving gases in complex liquid media, characterised in that it comprises the following interchangeable modules connected in fluid communication: i.) a Venturi module comprising the following modules: an inlet module (10), with a gas inlet, a liquid inlet, and an interchangeable nozzle configured to reduce the diameter of the inlets; a first depressurisation module (11) configured to receive the flow from the inlet module (10), with a flow inlet and a first depressurisation chamber having a diameter larger than the diameter of the interchangeable nozzle of the module (10); a second depressurisation module (12) configured to receive the flow from the first depressurisation module (11), with a second depressurisation chamber having a diameter smaller than the diameter of the first depressurisation chamber; ii.) a cavitation module comprising the following modules: a transition module (13) configured to receive the flow from the second depressurisation module (12) or from a gas inlet, with an interchangeable nozzle configured to adapt to the appropriate process conditions; a cavitation module (14) configured to receive the flow from the transition module (13), with a complex liquid media inlet and a cavitation chamber configured to generate cavitation of the complex liquid media together with the flow from the transition module (13); and a stabilisation module (15) configured to receive the liquid medium from the cavitation module (14), with an interchangeable nozzle configured to adapt to the appropriate process conditions.

[0010] The device of the invention is designed to operate at high pressures and speeds of both gas and fluids, which allows its use with viscous liquids and / or with high concentrations of solids. These features make it possible to achieve an ozone dissolution rate higher than 95%, and in the range of 96-100% under optimum conditions.

[0011] The second aspect of the invention relates to a method for dissolving gases in complex liquid media by using the device according to the first aspect of the invention.

[0012] The third aspect of the invention relates to a system for dissolving gases in complex liquid media, characterised in that it comprises the device according to the first aspect of the invention.

[0013] The fourth aspect of the invention relates to ozonised vegetable oil obtained by using the device according to the first aspect of the invention or by means of the system of the second aspect of the invention.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] To complement the description that is being made and in order to help make the features of the invention more readily understandable, a set of drawings is attached as an integral part of said description wherein, for illustrative and non-limiting purposes, the following has been represented: Figure 1 shows a detail of the modular device of the invention. Figure 2 shows a sectioned projection of the device of the invention. Figure 3 shows a diagram of a particular embodiment of the system using the device of the invention. List of references

[0015] 1.Device of the invention 10.Input module 11.First depressurisation module 12.Second depressurisation module 13.Transition module 14.Cavitation module 15.Stabilisation module 16.Clamping module 17.Mixing module 2.Oxygen generator 3.Ozone generator 4.Circuit cooling system 5.Water trap 6.Pressurisation pump 7.Sludge chamber 8.Ozone destructor 9.Pumping system PREFERRED EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION

[0016] The modular device for dissolving gases in complex liquid media of the first aspect is characterised in that it comprises the following modules connected in fluid communication: i.) a Venturi module comprising the following modules: an inlet module (10), with a gas inlet, a liquid inlet, and an interchangeable nozzle configured to reduce the diameter of the inlets. This module is designed to operate with inlet pressures of between 8 and 15 bar, with the aim of increasing the pressure drop capacity inside the Venturi and facilitating the aspiration of the ozone gas by generating a negative pressure and, on the other hand, facilitating the first dissolution phase of the ozone gas in the liquid medium to be treated. a first depressurisation module (11) configured to receive the flow from the inlet module (10), with a flow inlet, an interchangeable nozzle configured to reduce the diameter of the inlet and a first depressurisation chamber having a diameter larger than the diameter of the interchangeable nozzle. This is one of the critical points of the system, as its modular design and interchangeable nozzle facilitate disassembly and configuration according to the desired gas or liquid flow rate, thus providing flexibility in its operation depending on the liquid to be treated. a second depressurisation module (12) configured to receive the flow from the first depressurisation module (11), with a gas inlet and a second depressurisation chamber having a diameter smaller than the diameter of the first depressurisation chamber. This module is designed to operate with inlet gas pressures in a range of 2 to 3 bar. ii.) a cavitation module comprising the following modules: a transition module (13) configured to receive the flow from the second depressurisation module (12) or from a gas inlet, with an interchangeable nozzle configured to adapt to the appropriate process conditions; a cavitation module (14) configured to receive the flow from the transition module (13), with a complex liquid media inlet and a cavitation chamber configured to generate cavitation of the complex liquid media together with the flow from the transition module (13). Complex liquid media are injected at pressures between 8 and 12 bar. In this module, partial hydrolysis of the sludge or, in the case of oils, efficient premixing of all the components is carried out; and a stabilisation module (15) configured to receive the liquid medium from the cavitation module (14), with an interchangeable nozzle configured to adapt to the appropriate process conditions.

[0017] The modules of the device of the invention include a nozzle holder that facilitates the exchange of nozzles. These interchangeable nozzles allow the pressure in each module to be adjusted, thus adapting the operation of each stage to the specific conditions required depending on the type of complex liquid medium and the desired process.

[0018] In the context of the invention, the term "complex liquid media" refers to liquids containing additional components, such as solid particles, which alter their behaviour and properties compared to simple liquids. These media exhibit non-Newtonian characteristics, in other words, their viscosity can change under different flow or deformation conditions.

[0019] The term "liquids with high viscosity" refers to liquids that have high resistance to flow, in other words, they move and deform with greater difficulty under the application of a force. In general, the viscosity of these liquids is in the range of 100 to 1,000 centipoises (cp.).

[0020] The term "liquids with a concentration of high solids" refers to liquids with a concentration of solids of 1 to 6% by weight in the case of solids with a concentration of volatiles above 75%, and in the case of inorganic solids, a concentration of solids of 1 to 20% by weight.

[0021] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the device further comprises at least two clamping modules (16), said modules comprising clamping means configured to provide tightness to the set of modules of the device. In the preferred embodiment, said clamping modules consist of a system of flanges, threaded rods and nuts that allow the modules to be fixed and adjusted, ensuring their tightness.

[0022] In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the device comprises a configured mixing module (17) wherein said module consists of a chamber comprising a plurality of mixing elements. The mixing module operates at a high pressure in order to avoid problems of solids clogging inside the mixer and to facilitate optimal mixing.

[0023] The term "mixing elements" refers to fixed internal structures that direct and divide the flow of materials as they move through the mixing tube, allowing them to be mixed without the need for moving parts. These elements are designed to generate a turbulent flow of the liquid medium and facilitate the bursting of gas bubbles, decreasing the size of said bubbles and thus facilitating the dissolution of a gas in a liquid medium, achieving efficient mixing by manipulating the movement of the fluid.

[0024] In one embodiment of the device of the invention, fluid cooling systems are incorporated, used only in highly combustible liquids, such as oil, due to the exothermic reaction that occurs when ozone dissolves in the liquid medium. In another preferred embodiment, the device does not include means for regulating temperature. It operates with a pre-cooled gas flow, eliminating the need for additional cooling elements during dissolution of the gas in the liquid or fluid, despite the exothermic nature of the process.

[0025] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the device uses ozone as the gas to be dissolved in the fluid. Preferably, the ozone gas is generated from oxygen and its concentration is greater than 92%, preferably from 92-95%. Ozone is generated by electrical discharge from concentrated oxygen by means of PSA (Pressure Swing Adsorption).

[0026] In the preferred embodiment of the invention characterised in that the complex liquid media are liquids with high viscosity and / or a high concentration of dissolved solids, the complex liquid media are preferably selected from the group of vegetable oils, slurry, or sludge.

[0027] The second aspect of the invention relates to a system for dissolving gases in complex liquid media, characterised in that it comprises the device according to the first aspect of the invention.

[0028] In another embodiment of the system of the invention, the system further comprises a pressure transducer and a motorised system with linear stroke point.

[0029] In another embodiment of the system of the invention, the system incorporates various elements to carry out the dissolution process. Said elements include, inter alia, oxygen generators, ozone generators, cooling systems, water traps, pressurisation pumps, control systems, as well as pumping systems and / or ozone destructors.

[0030] In the most preferred embodiment of the system of the second aspect of the invention, the system comprises the device of the invention together with the following elements: an oxygen generator; an ozone generator; a circuit cooling system; a water trap; a pressurisation pump; a sludge chamber; an ozone destructor; a pumping system; and a control system.

[0031] This particular embodiment of the second aspect of the invention is described in figure 2 which shows the arrangement of the elements of the system.

[0032] The third aspect of the invention relates to a method for dissolving gases in complex liquid media, characterised in that it comprises a device according to any of the preceding claims.

[0033] The fourth aspect of the invention relates to ozonised vegetable oil obtained by using the device according to the first aspect of the invention or using the system according to the second aspect of the invention.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0016]The modular device for dissolving gases in complex liquid media of the first aspect is characterised in that it comprises the following modules connected in fluid communication:

i.) a Venturi module comprising the following modules: an inlet module (10), with a gas inlet, a liquid inlet, and an interchangeable nozzle configured to reduce the diameter of the inlets. This module is designed to operate with inlet pressures of between 8 and 15 bar, with the aim of increasing the pressure drop capacity inside the Venturi and facilitating the aspiration of the ozone gas by generating a negative pressure and, on the other hand, facilitating the first dissolution phase of the ozone gas in the liquid medium to be treated. a first depressurisation module (11) configured to receive the flow from the inlet module (10), with a flow inlet, an interchangeable nozzle configured to reduce the diameter of the inlet and a first depressurisation chamber having a diameter larger than the diameter...

Claims

1. A modular device for dissolving gases in complex liquid media, characterised in that it comprises the following modules connected in fluid communication: i.) a Venturi module comprising the following modules: - an inlet module (10), with a gas inlet, a liquid inlet, and an interchangeable nozzle configured to reduce the diameter of the inlet; - a first depressurisation module (11) configured to receive the flow from the inlet module (10), with a flow inlet and a first depressurisation chamber having a diameter larger than the diameter of the interchangeable nozzle of the module (10); - a second depressurisation module (12) configured to receive the flow from the first depressurisation module (11), with a second depressurisation chamber having a diameter smaller than the diameter of the first depressurisation chamber; ii.) a cavitation module comprising the following modules: - a transition module (13) configured to receive the flow from the second depressurisation module (12) or from a gas inlet, with an interchangeable nozzle configured to adapt to the appropriate process conditions; - a cavitation module (14) configured to receive the flow from the transition module (13), with a complex liquid media inlet and a cavitation chamber configured to generate cavitation of the complex liquid media together with the flow from the transition module (13); and - a stabilisation module (15) configured to receive the liquid medium from the cavitation module (14), with an interchangeable nozzle configured to adapt to the appropriate process conditions.

2. The device according to the preceding claim, characterised in that the device further comprises at least two clamping modules (16) with clamping means configured to provide tightness to the set of modules of the device.

3. The device according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the device comprises a mixing module (17) configured to act as a contact chamber, wherein said module consists of a chamber comprising a plurality of mixing elements.

4. The device according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the device does not comprise means for regulating temperature.

5. The device according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the gas used is ozone.

6. The device according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the complex liquid media are liquids with high viscosity and / or a high concentration of dissolved solids.

7. The device according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the complex liquid media are selected from the group of vegetable oils, slurry, or sludge.

8. A method for dissolving gases in complex liquid media, characterised in that it comprises a device according to any of the preceding claims.

9. A system for dissolving gases in complex liquid media, characterised in that it comprises a device according to any of claims 1-7.

10. The system according to the preceding claim, characterised in that the system further comprises a pressure transducer and a motorised system with linear stroke point.

11. The system according to the preceding claim, characterised in that the system further comprises oxygen generators, ozone generators, cooling systems, water traps, pressurisation pumps, control systems, pumping systems and / or ozone destructors.

12. An ozonised vegetable oil obtained by using the device according to claims 1 to 7 or using the system according to claims 9 to 11.

Citation Information

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