Method for ionizing a fluid

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for ionizing a fluid, in which a first pair (18) of electrodes (20, 22) are arranged opposite each other and at a distance from each other within a container (4), and the method includes the steps of conveying a gaseous fluid within the container through the first pair of electrodes in a fluid flow, charging the electrodes (20, 22) at the first pair of electrodes so that a discharge occurs, and supplying the fluid flow to the inlet of the container in pulses.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for ionizing a fluid in a gaseous state.

Background Art

[0002] Ionization is the process by which an atom or molecule acquires a negative or positive charge by gaining or losing electrons, and is often associated with other chemical changes. The resulting electrically charged atom or molecule is called an ion.

[0003] The technical field of the present invention relates to the ionization of a fluid by exposing the fluid to an electric discharge.

[0004] The fluid in a gaseous state used as an input to the ionization method may be air. When the electric discharge is strong enough, conditions are created for the gas to be separated into positive ions and electrons, and the air is ionized.

[0005] One application field of the ionized gas is to purify fluids such as gases that can be air, industrial process liquids, all kinds of water, wastewater, and other liquids. The ionized gas can be used to remove organic and mineral impurities or contaminants. Such organic substances can be bacteria, viruses, other harmful microorganisms, and some organic chemicals. It is also for separation by precipitation of inorganic substances or minerals such as metals.

[0006] The disclosure of this chapter should not be regarded as any admission of the prior art.

[0007] WO2018 / 211309 discloses an electric arc ionization reactor and a method for generating ozone using air. The reactor is elongated and has a circular cross-section on the inside. An inlet for introducing air is provided at a first end of the elongated reactor, and an outlet is provided at a second end of the elongated reactor. A pair of needle electrodes face each other in the lateral direction of the elongated reactor and are arranged at a distance from each other. A high-voltage alternating current is supplied to the electrodes to generate an arc between the electrodes.

[0008] Buntat, Zokafle; Ozone generation using electrical discharges; A comparative study between Pulsed Streamer Discharge and Atmospheric Pressure Glow Discharge (2005). This paper deals with the investigation of ozone generation by atmospheric pressure glow discharge and pulsed streamer discharge technologies and attempts to compare their performance in high-concentration and high-yield ozone generation. This technology involves a comparison of different utilization methods of corona discharge under atmospheric pressure using dielectric plates with a maximum distance of 1 mm from each other.

[0009] US20020170817 discloses the generation of corona or other discharges and provides for passing a gas through the corona for ionization, ozone generation, etc. According to various methods of the present invention, a corona discharge (or other discharge) is created, the gas passes through the corona discharge, and gas mixing is provided by passive mixing techniques for one or more purposes, such as ensuring maximum exposure of the gas to the corona discharge, providing a uniform temperature of the gas, cooling the corona generator, etc.

[0010] JP0761801 discloses an ozonation unit that provides a high ozone concentration by connecting a high-frequency power source between predetermined electrodes, generating a corona discharge, flowing the generated ozone gas in a spiral shape while adjusting the current, and preventing the destruction of ozone.

[0011] US4960569A discloses a corona discharge ozone generator including a first electrode, a second electrode, and a dielectric material disposed between the electrodes. An ozonation chamber is formed between one of the electrodes and the dielectric material, defining a fluid flow path. There are a plurality of thermally conductive solids within the fluid flow path.

[0012] US6451208 discloses a device for applying an electrostatic field and a magnetic field to a fluid, including an outer conduit and an inner conduit that form a fluid passage therebetween. The inner conduit is connected to a DC power source, and the outer conduit is grounded together with an electrode needle in electrical communication. A baffle is disposed within the passage, imparting a spiral motion to the fluid flowing therethrough. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] A first object of the present invention is to achieve a method for ionizing a fluid flow that creates conditions for high ionization efficiency.

[0014] This object is achieved by the method according to claim 1. Thus, this is achieved by a method for ionizing a fluid, wherein a first pair of electrodes are arranged opposite to each other and spaced apart within a container, and the method includes the steps of conveying a gaseous fluid within the container through the first pair of electrodes as a fluid flow, charging the electrodes at the first pair of electrodes such that a discharge occurs, and supplying the fluid flow to the inlet of the container in a pulsed manner.

[0015] In applications for cleaning liquids such as industrial process liquids in a downstream tank, pulsing continues within the container and in the output flow, and in some applications, it prevents overflow of the liquid in the tank.

[0016] Furthermore, since some liquids (such as hardening liquids) are sensitive to the aeration process (such as AOP), undesirable bubbles may occur when continuously exposed to the diffusion of air or gas fluids. There is a risk that the components of the liquid product may change and some of the beneficial functions of the liquid may be lost.

[0017] According to one example, this method includes charging each of the electrodes in the first pair of electrodes such that the electrodes are charged negatively or positively simultaneously, a potential difference is generated between each of the electrodes and the environment of each electrode, and discharge occurs from each of the electrodes. This method includes, for the ionization of the fluid, during the charging, transporting the gaseous fluid in the container through the first pair of electrodes in the environment of each electrode.

[0018] More specifically, both electrodes exchange electrons / positrons with the environment of each electrode, and due to the interaction with the ultimately transported fluid, discharge occurs near each electrode. The discharge extends a certain distance into the container from each electrode, but no continuous arc extends between the first pair of electrodes.

[0019] One effect of pulsing is the pressure fluctuations in the container that result in the "hammer drill effect", which is the reduction of the intermolecular distance (thereby increasing the likelihood of ionization). Further, pulsing has an effect of giving a greater thickness to the discharge compared to the case without pulses. Thus, pulsing creates conditions that enhance the ionization efficiency. A further effect of pulsing is that less air is required as a supply to the container to produce the same amount of oxidant, which leads to cost efficiency.

[0020] For the sake of consistency in definition, the pause / pulse ratio is the pause time divided by the pulse time, which gives a feeling of effective exposure (an artificial increase in the dosage of the oxidant generated by ionization). The pulse time is the time during which air is fed into the input of the container / reactant and then sent from the output of the reactor to the downstream tank (in the case of liquid applications in the industry). The pause time is the duration during which the pump stops sending air to the container / reactant (the delay in liquid discharge to the downstream tank). Adding this delay is beneficial for increasing the contact / residence time in the container / reactant, but there is a limit to it.

[0021] Low-frequency pulses can be obtained by using pneumatic components or special valves.

[0022] According to one embodiment example, the method includes supplying a fluid flow in pulses to an inlet of a container via a pulse duration in the range of 0.25 to 3.0 seconds where the pause between consecutive pulses is from 0.25 to 10.0 seconds.

[0023] According to a more preferred embodiment example, the method includes supplying a fluid flow in pulses to an inlet of a container via a pulse duration in the range of 0.4 to 1.0 seconds where the pause between consecutive pulses is from 0.5 to 5.0 seconds.

[0024] According to one example, a 1.5 - second pause and a 0.5 - second pulsing delay result in a sweet spot because there is time for any bubbles to remain during the pause time (while the liquid is stationary and sufficient time is obtained to lower the original level in the main tank, the contact time for ionization increases, and thus the ionization efficiency improves).

[0025] According to a preferred example, the method includes providing a pause time of about 1.5 seconds between consecutive pulses and supplying a fluid flow in pulses to an inlet of a container via a pulse duration of about 0.5 seconds (which is approximately 1 Hz, 60 times lower than a known high - frequency diaphragm pump of about 60 Hz).

[0026] An exemplary sweet spot is defined above as a 0.5 - second pulse and a 1.5 - second pause, and the pause / pulse ratio is 1.5 / 0.5 = 3 (0.33 less for safety), just below 3.33, providing the highest possible ionization efficiency while avoiding reaching a limit of available ionization energy of 1500 KJ / mol (2 * 7.5 kV at a 20 kHz transformer). This is because by controlling the fluid flow by pulsing, the contact time during the pause becomes longer.

[0027] According to an alternative to the last - mentioned preferred example, the method includes supplying a fluid flow in pulses to an inlet of a container via a pulse duration of about 1.0 seconds where the pause between consecutive pulses is about 1.0 second.

[0028] According to a further embodiment, the method includes supplying a fluid flow to the container at a fluid flow rate in the range of 5 to 80 liters per minute in each pulse. The defined range of fluid flow rate creates conditions for the first set of discharges in the first discharge structure to be deflected downstream from the electrodes in the direction of the fluid flow. Thereby, conditions for increasing the ionization efficiency are created.

[0029] According to a more preferred embodiment, the method includes supplying a fluid flow to the container at a fluid flow rate in the range of 5 to 40 liters per minute in each pulse.

[0030] According to a more preferred embodiment, the method includes supplying a fluid flow to the container at a fluid flow rate in the range of 8 to 20 liters per minute in each pulse.

[0031] According to a further embodiment, the method includes supplying a voltage to the first pair of electrodes such that both electrodes are positively charged and thus emit electrons, and the fluid flow can be regarded as a negatively charged region between the electrodes due to interaction with the electrons emitted from the electrodes, whereby the first discharge structure is formed for ionization of the fluid.

[0032] This method creates conditions for creating a configuration of the discharge structure that is particularly effective for ionization of the fluid. This is achieved by supplying a voltage of a certain magnitude to the first pair of electrodes such that both electrodes are charged positively or negatively simultaneously, and supplying the fluid at a fluid flow rate that matches the magnitude of the voltage. More specifically, this method creates conditions for creating a configuration of the first discharge structure downstream of the electrodes that largely covers the cross-section of the container, more specifically a hemispherical space, and as a result, creates conditions for largely ionizing the fluid passing through the first discharge structure.

[0033] In other words, the first discharge structure may be configured to cover most of the container in cross-section, making it difficult for atoms to pass through without being ionized when the flow of atoms / molecules in the fluid stream is transported through the electrodes.

[0034] According to one example, the discharge from the electrodes affects the substances passing through the space between the two electrodes. According to one example, the discharge from the electrodes extends from each of the electrodes less than halfway or about halfway into the container with respect to the central axis of the container, and affects the substances passing through the space between the two electrodes.

[0035] According to one example, the first discharge structure includes a discharge having a zigzag shape like a sawtooth because electrons repel each other due to the same charge. At the tip of the sawtooth-shaped discharge portion, the electrons are more excited, so the availability of ionization energy is higher (ionization occurs relatively easily).

[0036] The expression "emitting" electrons from the electrodes can also be referred to as "discharging" electrons instead.

[0037] This method can be used for the generation of ROS (reactive oxygen species) and several other substances. The fluid used here may be air. After ionization, the fluid contains a mixture of ROS (reactive oxygen species) such as oxygen (O2), superoxide anion (O2-), peroxide (O2-2), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), hydroxyl radical (OH), and hydroxyl ion (OH-). This is a homogeneous mixture of ROS, and the mixture is substantially stable and contains radicals with a relatively long half-life. This can be stably maintained for downstream applications such as in a tank for cleaning industrial process fluids. According to one example, the process fluid is a cutting fluid resulting from industrial cutting operations.

[0038] According to one example, this method includes the step of supplying a voltage of a magnitude at which selective ionization is achieved to the first pair of electrodes. For example, oxygen ionizes at a lower energy than nitrogen. More specifically, an ionization energy of about 1400 kJ / mol ionizes oxygen and does not ionize nitrogen. The ionization energy is carefully controlled according to a specific application, and preferably, by ionizing all elements up to oxygen and not ionizing nitrogen and elements with an atomic number greater than that, the generation of NOx (NO3 - HNO3) and the accompanying odor generation are avoided.

[0039] According to one example, the electrodes in the first pair of electrodes are linear, rod-shaped with pointed ends (like needles), and are arranged in a straight line with each other. According to one example, the electrodes in the first pair of electrodes are identical.

[0040] According to one embodiment example, this method includes the step of supplying a voltage of a magnitude such that the first discharge structure includes a plurality of discharges between the electrodes to the electrodes.

[0041] According to one example, there are flows of a plurality of electrons from each of the electrodes along different paths, and they form different discharges.

[0042] According to a further embodiment example, the container is elongated, the inner wall of the elongated fluid container has a rounded / circular shape in a cross-section orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the elongated fluid container, the electrodes in the first pair of electrodes are arranged at a distance from each other in the lateral direction of the elongated fluid container, and the inner wall of the elongated fluid container has a diameter in the range of 10 - 50 mm, particularly in the range of 10 - 30 mm, preferably in the range of 15 - 25 mm.

[0043] According to a further embodiment example, the electrodes in the first pair of electrodes are arranged at a distance from each other in the range of 2 - 15 mm, particularly in the range of 2 - 10 mm, particularly in the range of 2 - 4 mm.

[0044] According to one example, in the case of a container with a diameter in the range of 15 - 25 mm, the distance between the electrodes is in the range of 2 - 4 mm. By this method, corrosion is minimized, thereby extending the life of the device and / or reducing the frequency of replacing the electrodes with new ones, which may result in high cost - effectiveness in low - maintenance use. Alternatively or additionally, the electrodes are chemically coated with titanium nano - oxide, nano - platinum, or other materials that enhance the corrosion resistance of the electrodes.

[0045] According to a further exemplary embodiment, each of the electrodes in the first pair has an elongated shape with a pointed end, and the electrodes are arranged such that the pointed ends face each other.

[0046] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the method includes the step of supplying a voltage to each electrode in the first pair of electrodes in the range of 2 - 15 kV, particularly in the range of 5 - 10 kV, preferably in the range of about 7.5 kV.

[0047] According to one example, to supply the voltage, the transformer has one of its output terminals connected to the first electrode of the first pair (and in some cases, another one of its terminals is connected to the first electrode of the second pair). According to one example, AC power from a power source such as a power grid is supplied to the transformer. Then, the transformer changes the charge (AC current) of the electrodes to convert an input voltage of 12 - 220 volts with a frequency of 50 - 60 Hz to about 2 * 7.5 kV for each pole (associated with one of the electrodes) at a frequency of about 20 kHz.

[0048] According to a further example, this method includes steps of affecting a fluid flow by a magnetic field near an electrode in a first pair of electrodes, interacting with a discharge from the electrode to affect a first discharge structure, and supporting ionization of the fluid. According to one example, this method includes steps of affecting a fluid flow by a magnetic field for interaction with a discharge from an electrode near and upstream of the electrode in a first pair of electrodes such that a second set of discharges is created in a first discharge structure to support ionization of the fluid, and the second set of discharges is created upstream of the first set of discharges in the direction of the fluid flow.

[0049] According to a further exemplary embodiment, this method includes a step of supplying a pressure exceeding 1.1 bar into the container while supplying a voltage to the electrode. According to a preferred example, this method includes a step of supplying a pressure exceeding 1.5 bar into the container while supplying a voltage to the electrode. According to one example, this method operates with the pressure in the container in the range of 1.5 to 2.0 bar. When the pressure level exceeds 1.1 bar, the collisions of substances increase and the ionization efficiency increases. The required pressure in the container further depends on the downstream applications, and the pressure level can be up to 10 bar at most.

[0050] According to a further exemplary embodiment, this method includes a step of irradiating the fluid in the container via a light source. The interaction between light and matter results in a pair production phenomenon. In the area where a discharge is formed, the interaction between photons from the light source and the matter passing through that area causes the light source to emit waves in different wavelength ranges. The generated waves increase the ionization efficiency. In addition, electrons and positrons are emitted and contribute to the ionization reaction. And the yield per power consumption increases.

[0051] The light source is preferably arranged outside the container. Thereby, since it is not exposed to the internal environment (friction and heat) of the container, the conditions for extending the life of the light source are met. The radiation by the light source can irradiate the fluid flow if the wall of the container is transparent such as made of glass.

[0052] The light source may be a light-emitting diode (LED) adapted to emit ultraviolet (UV) light. As an alternative, a xenon lamp can also be used. According to one example, the light source can be adapted to provide a light intensity in the range of 100 to 5600 lumens. The light intensity can be adapted to the magnitude of the voltage supplied to the electrodes, and for a specific ionization effect, a lower voltage can be compensated by a higher light intensity.

[0053] The light source may contribute to a significant improvement in ionization efficiency. Tests have shown that the ionization efficiency has increased by up to 40%.

[0054] According to a further example, the ionization device includes a second pair of electrodes disposed at a distance from the first pair of electrodes within the container. According to one example, the distance between adjacent electrode pairs is at least 30 mm.

[0055] According to a further example, the method includes the step of transporting at least a first portion of the fluid along a helical path within the container.

[0056] Such a fluid flow pattern allows the fluid to spend more time within the container, thereby creating conditions that increase the binding rate, the likelihood of collisions, and thus the ionization rate, leading to a higher ionization efficiency. Further, such a flow pattern causes the fluid flow to reach the first discharge structure in a direction angled with respect to the longitudinal direction of the container, as a result of which more molecules may be ionized by the first discharge structure. Further, such a flow pattern may cause turbulence in the fluid flow, as a result of which more molecules may be ionized by the first discharge structure.

[0057] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the method includes conveying at least a second portion of the fluid along a substantially linear path within the container towards a position between the first pair of electrodes. The second portion of the fluid thus significantly contributes to pushing the first discharge structure downstream, thereby creating conditions of high coverage of the cross-section of the container, and thereby increasing the ionization efficiency.

[0058] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the method then includes supplying the ionized fluid stream to a reservoir downstream of the container for treatment of the treatment liquid.

[0059] According to a further aspect of the present invention, regarding a device for ionizing a fluid, the device includes a container, a first pair of electrodes disposed opposite each other and spaced apart within the container, wherein the container is adapted to convey a fluid in a gaseous state through the first pair of electrodes as a fluid stream, a power source adapted to charge the first pair of electrodes so that a discharge occurs, and fluid flow pumping means for pulsatingly supplying a fluid stream to the inlet of the container.

[0060] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the device includes a second pair of electrodes disposed opposite each other and spaced apart within the container, the second pair of electrodes being disposed downstream of the first pair and at a distance from the first pair of electrodes in the direction of the fluid flow within the container, and the power source is adapted to charge each of the electrodes in the second pair of electrodes so that they have the same charge simultaneously, and to synchronize the charging of the first pair of electrodes with respect to the second pair of electrodes such that when the first pair of electrodes is positively charged, the second pair of electrodes is negatively charged and vice versa.

[0061] More specifically, the second pair of electrodes is disposed at a distance from the first pair of electrodes sufficient to avoid interference of the discharge structures of adjacent electrode pairs in frequency synchronization. Further, this distance is preferably sufficient to avoid a direct complete arc between two electrodes of opposite charges in order to avoid any increase in the ampere load.

[0062] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the first electrode in the first pair of electrodes and the first electrode in the second pair of electrodes are connected to the opposing terminals of the first power source, and the second electrode in the first pair of electrodes and the second electrode in the second pair of electrodes are connected to the opposing terminals of the second power source.

[0063] Further advantages and advantageous features of the present invention are disclosed in the following description and the dependent claims.

[0064] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, the exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described in more detail by way of example.

Brief Description of the Drawings

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Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0066] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a device 2 for ionizing a fluid in a gaseous state according to a first embodiment. Hereinafter, the fluid in a gaseous state will be referred to as a gas. According to one example, the gas is air. The ionization device 2 includes a container 4. The container 4 is shown in a cross-section in a horizontal plane passing through its central axis. The container 4 has an elongated shape. The container 4 has a rounded cross-sectional shape, more specifically a circular cross-sectional shape. Further, the cross-section of the container 4 is constant along most of the length of the container. Further, the ends 6, 8 of the container 4 in the longitudinal direction have a rounded, more specifically hemispherical shape. The wall 10 of the container 4 defines an inner chamber 12. The inner surface of the wall 10 of the elongated container 4 has a diameter of about 20 mm. Figure 2 is a perspective view from above the container 4 of Figure 1.

[0067] The container wall 10 is formed of glass. The container may be formed of two identical container parts separated by a plane passing through the central axis of the container 4. According to an alternative, the container 4 is formed integrally with a cap at one end.

[0068] Further, an inlet 14 is provided at a first end 6 in the longitudinal direction of the container 4, and an outlet 16 is provided at a second end 8 in the longitudinal direction of the container 4, and a gas flow is conveyed from the inlet 14 to the outlet 16. Each of the inlet 14 and the outlet 16 generally has a tube shape. The axis of the inlet 14 has a main direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the container 4 and is arranged in a straight line with the longitudinal central axis 17 of the container. Similarly, the axis of the outlet 16 has a main direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the container 4 and is arranged in a straight line with the longitudinal central axis 17 of the container. The length of the container 4, excluding the inlet 14 and the outlet 16, is in the range of 100 to 120 mm.

[0069] The ionization device 2 further includes a first pair 18 of electrodes 20, 22 that face each other and are spaced apart within the container 4. The electrodes 20, 22 are arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the container 4. Further, the container 4 is arranged such that its longitudinal direction is horizontal. More specifically, the electrodes 20, 22 are arranged to extend in the horizontal plane. The electrodes 20, 22 are shown in an enlarged view in FIG. 3. The electrodes 20, 22 are arranged at a distance γ in the range of 2 to 4 mm from each other. Further, each of the electrodes 20, 22 in the first pair 18 has an elongated shape with a circular cross-section and pointed ends 24, 26. The electrodes are arranged such that the pointed ends 24, 26 face each other. More specifically, each of the electrodes 20, 22 in the first pair 18 has an elongated shape with pointed ends 24, 26 that define an angle α in the range of 20 to 35°. In other words, each of the electrodes 20, 22 has a sharp tip. More specifically, the electrodes 20, 22 of the first pair 18 are linear and arranged in a straight line with each other. More specifically, the electrodes 20, 22 in the first pair 18 are rod-shaped. The electrodes 20, 22 in the first pair 18 can be called needle electrodes. The electrodes 20, 22 in the first pair 18 are formed of a metallic material, and more precisely, formed of a material of tungsten (also called wolfram) as an example.

[0070] According to the physical law, when an element is charged, the charged portion accumulates at any sharp edge of the element. Therefore, the charged portion accumulates highly at the sharp edges of the electrodes 20, 22. In other words, the charged portion has a very high density at the sharp edges, and the electric field becomes strong in the region of the sharp edges. Further, a highly charged electrode (positive or negative) has a very high potential with respect to the environment (adjacent to the electrode). The potential difference between the electrode and its adjacent environment / surroundings causes ionization of substances in the environment near each electrode, and causes exchange of electrons / positrons in a cycle from the high potential area to the low potential area, or vice versa, and various types of discharges may occur from the electrodes. This phenomenon may be similar to a Tesla coil.

[0071] Accordingly, the design of the electrodes 20, 22 with sharp tips 24, 26 creates good conditions for creating discharges from the surfaces of the tips that are inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction of the elongated electrodes. More specifically, a first set of discharges that extend downstream from the electrode tips can be created. Further, a second set of discharges that extend upstream from the electrode tips can be created. This will be described in more detail below in connection with FIGS. 14 and 15.

[0072] The ionization device 2 further includes power supplies 28, 50 adapted to charge each of the electrodes 20, 22 in the first pair 18 of electrodes so that they have the same charge at the same time. In this way, a potential difference can occur between each electrode 20, 22 and the environment of each electrode, and discharges occur from each electrode. Further, the gaseous fluid within the container is conveyed through the environment of each of the electrodes 20, 22 and through the first pair 18 of electrodes during said charging for ionization of the fluid.

[0073] More specifically, the power supplies 28, 50 include two transformers 28, 50 adapted to supply an alternating current of a certain frequency to the electrodes. Accordingly, the power supplies 28, 50 are adapted to supply the first pair of electrodes 18 with a voltage such that both electrodes 20, 22 are positively charged at the same time and thus emit electrons. This is schematically shown in the schematic top view of FIG. 4, and the arrows 30, 31 indicate the paths of the electrons emitted from the tips of the electrodes 20, 22. Further, the container 4 is adapted to convey gas in a flow passing through the first pair 18 of electrodes, and the gas flow can be regarded as a negatively charged region 32 between the electrodes 20, 22 and interacts with the electrons emitted from the electrodes to form a first discharge structure 34. More specifically, a plurality of discharges protrude from each of the electrodes 20, 22 for ionization of the gas. FIG. 5 is a schematic front view of the first discharge structure 34 formed within the container according to FIG. 4. Further, each discharge has a zigzag shape in the form of a sawtooth.

[0074] More specifically, each of the transformers 28, 50 includes a primary winding and a secondary winding. Each transformer changes the charge (AC current) of the electrodes to convert an input voltage of 12 to 220 volts at a frequency of 50 to 60 Hz into 2 * 7.5 kV for each pole (related to one of the electrodes) at a frequency of approximately 20 kHz. Therefore, each of the transformers 28, 50 includes a frequency converter 29, 51, and one of the functions of the ground wire is to reduce noise.

[0075] It should be noted that the zigzag discharge shapes shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 are only schematically shown. In particular, the discharge is enlarged relative to the size of the electrodes 20, 22 and is much larger than the actual size. In reality, the zigzag is on a microscopic scale. Also, the number is much larger than the number of discharges shown in the figure.

[0076] Each of the transformers 28, 50 is adapted to supply an output voltage of a magnitude of approximately 7.5 kV through each of its output terminals. Further, each of the transformers 28, 50 is adapted to supply the output voltage at a frequency of approximately 20 kHz, and the polarity of the electrodes connected to the two output terminals / poles of one transformer changes very quickly (every 0.00005 seconds).

[0077] More specifically, each of the electrodes 20, 22 is disposed in the openings 36, 38 that penetrate the container wall 10. More specifically, the container includes pipe-shaped portions 40, 42 that extend in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction of the container 4. More specifically, the pipe-shaped portions 40, 42 extend perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the container 4. The pipe-shaped portions 40, 42 define the openings 36, 38. More specifically, the pipe-shaped portions 40, 42 are integrally formed with the container 4. More specifically, the electrodes 20, 22 are hermetically disposed within the pipe-shaped portions 40, 42 to avoid leakage.

[0078] The ionization device 2 further includes a second pair 44 of electrodes 46, 48 disposed within the container 4 in a manner similar to that described above with respect to the first pair 18 of electrodes 20, 22. The second pair 44 of electrodes 46, 48 are disposed at a distance from the first pair 18 of electrodes 20, 22 in the longitudinal direction of the container 4. Each of the first pair 18 of electrodes 20, 22 and the second pair 44 of electrodes 46, 48 are disposed in a portion of the container 4 having a constant cross-section with a distance between adjacent electrode pairs of approximately 30 mm. The power supplies 28, 50 are adapted to charge each of the electrodes 46, 48 in the second pair 44 of electrodes such that they have the same charge simultaneously. In this way, a potential difference can occur between each electrode 46, 48 and the environment of each electrode, and discharge occurs from each electrode. Thus, the power supplies 28, 50 are adapted to supply the second pair 44 of electrodes with a voltage such that both electrodes 46, 48 are charged positively simultaneously and thus emit electrons.

[0079] This arrangement is adapted to synchronize the charging of the first pair 20 of electrodes 20, 22 with respect to the second pair 44 of electrodes 46, 48 such that when the first pair 20 of electrodes 20, 22 are charged positively, the second pair 44 of electrodes 46, 48 are charged negatively and vice versa.

[0080] The two transformers 28, 50 have the same natural frequency and are identical. By disposing the transformers 28, 50 relatively close to each other, their frequency cycles affect each other during operation according to the law of Hertz and frequency and thus ultimately synchronize in a steady state. Thus, they can operate at permanently synchronized frequencies. Thus, this synchronization occurs spontaneously as soon as the transformers are turned on. According to an alternative, means for actively controlling the synchronization can be provided, such as by disposing a one-way diode (a diode that synchronizes the direction of the current in the same direction, i.e., a sine wave or a cosine wave) in the path of each output terminal.

[0081] Accordingly, each transformer has two output terminals / poles, which are connected to electrodes 20, 22 and 46, 48 to charge the electrodes. When the potential reaches a sufficient amount for discharge, the aforementioned discharge phenomenon occurs. More specifically, the first electrode 22 in the first pair 18 of electrodes and the first electrode 46 in the second pair 44 of electrodes are connected to the opposing terminals of the first transformer 28. Further, the second electrode 20 in the first pair 18 of electrodes and the second electrode 48 in the second pair 44 of electrodes are connected to the opposing terminals of the second transformer 50.

[0082] The ionization device 2 further includes gas flow pump means 52 for supplying a gas flow from the compressed air tank 54 to the inlet 14 of the container 4. More specifically, the gas flow pump means 52 supplies the gas flow to the container 4 at a speed such that it is conveyed through the first pair 18 of electrodes 20, 22, and is adapted such that at least a part of the first discharge structure is deflected downstream in the direction of the gas flow from the electrodes 20, 22. More specifically, the gas flow pump means 52 is adapted to supply the gas flow to the container at a gas flow rate in the range of 10 to 12 liters per minute.

[0083] It should be noted that the present device is not limited to the use of a gas supply tank. This could be a compressor or an industrial blower that uses ambient air, for example.

[0084] Furthermore, the gas flow pump means 52 is adapted to supply the gas flow to the inlet 14 of the container 4 in a pulsed manner. This method includes providing a pause time of about 1.5 seconds between consecutive pulses and supplying the gas flow to the inlet 14 of the container 4 in a pulsed manner with a pulse duration of about 0.5 seconds. Refer to the graph in Figure 21.

[0085] The outlet 16 of the container 4 is in fluid communication with a tank 56 containing a treatment liquid such as industrial water or wastewater having strong aerobic or anaerobic bacteria. The line connecting the outlet 16 and the tank 56 ends in the lower region of the tank 56, and ionization gas can be supplied below the surface of the treatment liquid to separate inorganic substances or minerals such as metals by precipitation or to kill bacteria.

[0086] According to the alternative, the tank 56 is replaced by another device related to air purification. The ionized gas discharged from the outlet can be directly sprayed into the room in order to remove viruses, bacteria, odors, etc.

[0087] A further effect of the pulsing is that the amount of non-ionized air (O2) per output volume sent to the tank 56 is reduced. Non-ionized air has the risk of supporting the growth of aerobic bacteria and competes with the ionized air portion. The pulsing sends more ionized air into the mixture per volume of the output fluid compared to the untreated air (O2).

[0088] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a device 102 for ionizing a gas according to a second embodiment. The ionization device 102 according to the second embodiment has many common parts with the ionization device 2 according to the first embodiment. For the sake of simplicity of explanation, only the main differences will be described below.

[0089] The ionization device 102 includes a nozzle 104 disposed at the inlet 14 of the container 4. The nozzle 4 is adapted to rotate about an axis parallel to the axis of the inlet 14 so as to convey the gas along a helical path within the container 4. The nozzle 104 includes an end facing the internal chamber 12 of the container, having a radially outer surface defining a generally circular cross-sectional shape that matches the dimensions of the inner surface of the inlet 14. Further, the nozzle 104 includes a peripheral through-channel adapted to create a helical flow inside the container 4.

[0090] The ionization device 102 further includes a first fluid flow guiding unit 106 disposed within the container 4. The first fluid flow guiding unit 106 is disposed downstream of the first pair 18 of electrodes. More specifically, the first fluid flow guiding unit 106 is disposed downstream of the second pair 44 of electrodes.

[0091] The first fluid flow guiding unit 106 is adapted to compensate for the pressure drop across the length of the container 4 by providing an obstacle to the gas flow. In this way, the second discharge structure created by the second pair 44 of electrodes can be as strong and orderly as the first discharge structure created by the first pair 18 of electrodes. More specifically, the pressure within the container 4 is maintained, or at least not significantly reduced, thanks to the first fluid flow guiding unit 106. The intermolecular distance is reduced, the retention time within the container is lengthened, and as a result, the ionization efficiency is improved. Furthermore, maintaining the pressure at a relatively high level can be important for the supply of fluid to the tank 56, as it provides the backpressure that the liquid within the tank has to overcome.

[0092] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the first fluid flow guiding unit 106 provided within the container 4 of FIG. 6. FIG. 8 is a front view of the first fluid flow guiding unit 106 of FIG. 7. The first fluid flow guiding unit 106 includes at least one peripheral fluid flow guiding channel 108 having an outlet 110 circumferentially displaced with respect to an inlet 112 for redirecting a first portion of the incoming fluid flow. The first fluid flow guiding unit 106 further includes a central fluid flow guiding channel 114 extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the elongated container 4 in order to substantially guide a second portion of the incoming fluid flow in the longitudinal direction of the elongated container 4.

[0093] More specifically, the first fluid flow guiding unit 106 includes a plurality of peripheral fluid flow guiding channels 108, 118, 120 spaced circumferentially apart. Furthermore, at least one of the peripheral fluid flow guiding channels 108, 118, 120 has a substantially larger dimension than the central fluid flow guiding channel 114 in order to convey a substantially large portion of the incoming fluid flow.

[0094] Furthermore, the first fluid flow guiding unit 106 has a rounded peripheral surface 122 that substantially corresponds to the curvature of the rounded inner surface of the container 4, and the first fluid flow guiding unit 106 is disposed within the container 4 such that the rounded surfaces are in fluid-tight contact with each other.

[0095] More specifically, the first fluid flow guiding unit 106 is fixedly connected to the container 4 in the operating position, such as via a weld joint. The first fluid flow guiding unit 106 can be formed of a material having the same or a similar coefficient of expansion as the container wall 10. According to one example, the first fluid flow guiding unit 106 is formed of glass. This creates the conditions for firmly connecting the first fluid flow guiding unit 106 to the container 4 in the operating position via welding.

[0096] More specifically, the first fluid flow guiding unit 106 includes a body 124 that defines at least one peripheral fluid guiding channel 108, 118, 120 and a central fluid guiding channel 114. More specifically, the first fluid flow guiding unit 106 is formed by an integral body 124.

[0097] At least one peripheral fluid flow guiding channel 108, 118, 120 is radially open in the first fluid flow guiding unit 106. More specifically, at least one peripheral fluid flow guiding channel 108, 118, 120 is radially closed by the wall 10 of the container 4 in FIG. 6.

[0098] The first fluid flow guiding unit 106 includes circumferential sections 126, 128, 130 between adjacent peripheral fluid flow guiding channels 108, 118, 120. The radially outer surfaces of these sections 126, 128, 130 of the first fluid flow guiding unit 106 define a circular shape having substantially the same dimensions as the inner surface of the elongated container 4. Each wall of the sections 126, 128, 130 faces in the longitudinal direction of the container 4 in order to block a part of the fluid flow. The total area of the walls of the sections 126, 128, 130 is substantially the same as the cross-sectional area defined by the peripheral fluid flow guiding channels 108, 118, 120.

[0099] The first fluid flow guiding unit 106 is adapted to convey at least a first portion of the fluid along a helical path within the container 4 via at least one peripheral fluid flow guiding channel 108, 118, 120. Further, the first fluid flow guiding unit 106 is adapted to convey at least a second portion of the fluid along a substantially linear path within the container via the central fluid flow guiding channel 114.

[0100] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a device 202 for ionizing a gas according to a third embodiment. The ionization device 202 according to the third embodiment has many common parts with the ionization device 102 according to the second embodiment. For the sake of simplicity of explanation, only the main differences will be described below.

[0101] The ionization device 202 includes a second fluid flow guiding unit 206. The two fluid flow guiding units 106, 206 are arranged at intervals from each other in the longitudinal direction of the container 4. More specifically, the two fluid flow guiding units 106, 206 are arranged on the opposite sides of the first pair 18 of electrodes 20, 22. More specifically, the two fluid flow guiding units 106, 206 are arranged on the opposite sides of the first pair 18 of electrodes 20, 22 and the second pair 44 of electrodes 46, 48. More specifically, the second fluid flow guiding unit 206 has a design similar to the design of the first fluid flow guiding unit 106, but is different in that at least one peripheral fluid flow guiding channel rotates in the circumferential direction in the opposite direction. Therefore, the two fluid flow guiding units 106, 206 have the same dimensions but have a mirror-like design for changing the direction of the fluid flow. In other words, the first of the two fluid flow guiding units 106, 206 is adapted to rotate the fluid flow clockwise, and the other is adapted to rotate the fluid flow counterclockwise.

[0102] FIG. 10 is a schematic top view of an ionization device 202 showing a fluid flow path, similar to FIG. 9. The peripheral fluid flow guide channels 108, 118, 120 of the upstream first fluid flow guiding unit 206 are adapted to convey a first portion of the fluid flow in a helical path 208 within the container 4. Further, the central fluid flow guide channel 114 is adapted to convey a second portion of the fluid flow in a substantially linear path 210 within the container, parallel to the longitudinal direction of the container 4.

[0103] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a part of a device 302 for ionizing a gas according to a fourth embodiment. The ionization device 302 according to the fourth embodiment has many common parts with the ionization device 202 according to the third embodiment. For the sake of simplicity, only the main differences will be described below.

[0104] The ionization device 302 includes a magnetic field generating device 304, which is adapted to generate a magnetic field in the vicinity of the first pair of electrodes 18 to affect the discharge structure for supporting the ionization of the gas. The magnetic field generating device 304 is disposed outside the container 4. Thereby, since it is not exposed to the internal environment (friction and heat) of the container 4, the conditions for extending the service life of the magnetic field generating device 304 are met.

[0105] The magnetic field generating device 304 includes a first section 305 disposed upstream of the first pair of electrodes 18 in the longitudinal direction of the container. The first discharge structure 34 includes a first set of discharges 334 deflected downstream from the electrodes by the gas flow and a second set of discharges 336 extending upstream from the electrodes 20, 22 under the influence of the magnetic field of the first magnetic field generating section 305. The first set of discharges 334 and the second set of discharges 336 are shown in FIGS. 14 and 15. It should be noted that the second set of discharges 336 has fewer discharges than the first set of discharges 334, and the extension of the second set of discharges 336 in the longitudinal direction of the container with respect to the first set of discharges 334 is small.

[0106] More specifically, the magnetic field generated by the first magnetic field generation section 305 also creates a discharge bridge / passage upstream of the electrode pair 18. Refer to the arrows 330 and 331 indicating the electrons emitted from the electrodes 20 and 22. The second set of discharges 336 includes a plurality of discharges between the electrodes 20 and 22. Further, the magnetic field generated by the first magnetic field generation section 305 is adapted to deflect the second set of discharges 336 upstream in the direction of the gas flow from the electrodes 20 and 22. Further, the discharge has a zigzag / sawtooth shape.

[0107] The magnetic field generation device 304 includes at least one magnetic field generation unit 310. The magnetic field generation unit 310 is formed by an electromagnet 308. The electromagnet 308 includes a coil adapted to pass an electric current. The electromagnet 308 is arranged such that the axis of the coil extends radially with respect to the container 4. According to an alternative, the magnetic field generation unit 310 is formed by a permanent magnet. The magnetic field generation unit is adapted to provide a magnetic field strength in the range of 20 to 180, particularly in the range of 20 to 40 N.

[0108] More specifically, the first magnetic field generation section 305 includes a plurality of magnetic field generation units 310 arranged at circumferential intervals around the container. According to the illustrated example, the first magnetic field generation section 305 includes six magnetic field generation units 310 arranged at circumferential intervals around the container. Such an arrangement provides a more organized and symmetric discharge structure, evenly spreading the entire circumference of the electrode pair in all directions and covering the entire cross-section of the reaction chamber. Of course, the number of magnetic field generation units 310 can be changed according to the application. Further, each of the circumferentially spaced magnetic field generation units 310 is formed by an electromagnet. The magnet can be connected to a low-voltage circuit of, for example, 12 volts to 24 volts. According to an alternative, one or some or all of the circumferentially spaced magnetic field generation units 310 may be formed by permanent magnets.

[0109] Referring also to FIG. 12 here, this is a perspective view of the first magnetic field generation section 305. The first magnetic field generation section 305 includes a ring-shaped support 312 that extends around the container, and the ring-shaped support is adapted to hold the magnetic field generation units 310 arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction in the operating position. Each of the magnetic field generation units 310 arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction is arranged such that its axis extends radially outward from the ring-shaped support 312.

[0110] FIG. 13 is a front view with a part of the ionization device 302 in FIG. 11 cut away. The ring-shaped support 312 is arranged close to the outer wall surface of the container 4.

[0111] More specifically, the ring-shaped support 312 has an inner diameter that is substantially the same as or slightly larger than the outer diameter of the container 4. It should be noted that the magnets are arranged such that the core of each magnet contacts the outer surface of the glass container. The ring-shaped support 312 is made of graphite or a highly heat-resistant non-conductive material.

[0112] Referring to FIG. 11, the magnetic field generation device 304 includes a second section 307 that is arranged outside the container and downstream of the first pair 18 of electrodes in the longitudinal direction of the container 4. The second magnetic field generation section 307 is adapted to generate a magnetic field in the vicinity of the first pair of electrodes in order to stabilize the first discharge structure. More specifically, the magnetic field generated by the second magnetic field generation section 307 is adapted to order the first set of discharges and give a more consistent arrangement. In other words, ordering the discharges means that the discharges form a more symmetric pattern with a certain interval, etc. Also, the magnetic field generated by the second magnetic field generation section 307 acts on the first set of discharges to increase the number of discharges and increase the thickness of the discharges. The second magnetic field generation section 307 has the same structure and function as the first magnetic field generation section 305.

[0113] Furthermore, the magnetic field generating device 304 includes a third section 309 disposed outside the container and upstream of the second pair 44 of electrodes in the longitudinal direction of the container 4. The third magnetic field generating section 309 is adapted to generate a magnetic field in the vicinity of the second pair 44 of electrodes, similar to the way the first magnetic field generating section 305 is adapted to generate a magnetic field in the vicinity of the first pair 18 of electrodes, and thus further detailed description is omitted here.

[0114] FIG. 16 is a schematic top view of the magnetic field generating device 304 schematically showing a part 311 of the generated magnetic field. More specifically, FIG. 16 shows the magnetic field generated by two opposing magnetic field generating units 310. Similar magnetic fields are created by each of the other two pairs of opposing magnetic field generating units 310.

[0115] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a container 404 according to an alternative design for the container 4 of FIG. 2. The container 404 differs from the container 4 of FIG. 2 in that it has an additional outlet 416. The additional outlet 416 is disposed at an angle with respect to the longitudinal direction of the container 404. More specifically, the additional outlet 416 is arranged such that the angle of its axis with respect to the axis of the outlet 16 is in the range of 30 to 60°, preferably in the range of about 45°. Further, the additional outlet 416 extends from the hemispherical end 8 of the container 404. The arrangement of the two outlets 4, 404 creates conditions for splitting the ionized gas flow into two separate gas flows and sending them to different destinations. According to one example, one of the outlets 16, 416 may be in fluid communication with the inlet 14 to recirculate a part of the ionized fluid flow.

[0116] FIG. 18 shows an ionization device 402 according to a fifth embodiment including the container 404 of FIG. 17. This shows the fluid flow path within the container 404. More specifically, the design and position of the first fluid flow guiding unit 106 are designed to convey the first part of the fluid towards the axial outlet 16 and the second part of the fluid towards the additional second outlet 416.

[0117] The ionization device 402 can further include means for selectively guiding a portion of the fluid flow to the outlets 16, 416, as an alternative or supplement to the first fluid flow guiding unit 106. According to one example, the fluid flow selective guiding means is adapted to attract the negatively charged portion of the flow to a further outlet 416. This may be formed by a further electrode acting as a cathode. Since electrons have a negative charge and some of the ionized molecules / atoms are positively charged, the cathode can attract the negatively charged portion of the flow to a further outlet 416 and use it for another purpose (e.g., return to the inlet 14 or other purposes). In this way, the axial main output (target ionization) of the axial outlet 16 is more purified. Alternatively or in addition, depending on the purpose, an anode can be used to absorb the positively charged portion of the flow.

[0118] FIG. 19 is a schematic side view of a part of an ionization device 502 according to a sixth embodiment. The ionization device 502 according to the sixth embodiment has many common parts with the ionization device 2 according to the first embodiment. For the sake of simplicity of explanation, only the main differences will be described below.

[0119] The ionization device 502 includes at least one light source 504, 506 adapted to irradiate a gas flow in a container, thereby supporting the ionization of the gas. The interaction of light and matter results in a pair production phenomenon.

[0120] The light sources 504, 506 are in a strip shape extending in the longitudinal direction of the container 4. The strips of the light sources 504, 506 have a main extension along a straight line. More specifically, the two light sources 504, 506 are arranged opposite to each other with an interval of 180°. More specifically, the two light sources 504, 506 are arranged such that their longitudinal directions are parallel to each other. More specifically, the strip-shaped light sources extend along a substantial part of the container 4, substantially along its entire length in the illustrated example. The light sources 504, 506 are arranged outside the container 4. Thereby, since they are not exposed to the internal environment (friction and heat) of the container 4, the conditions for the long life of the light sources are met. Since the container wall is transparent, the radiation by the light source 504 can irradiate the fluid flow.

[0121] At least one of the light sources 504, 506 includes a plurality of light source units arranged at intervals in the longitudinal direction of their respective strips. The light sources 504, 506 may be light emitting diodes (LEDs) adapted to emit ultraviolet (UV) light. As an alternative, a xenon lamp can also be used. According to an example, the light sources 504, 506 can be adapted to provide a light intensity in the range of 100 to 5600 lumens. The light intensity can be adapted to the magnitude of the voltage supplied to the electrodes, and for a specific ionization effect, a lower voltage can be compensated by a higher light intensity.

[0122] As an alternative, the light source may be a light bulb instead of a strip. Also, other shapes and arrangements of the light sources are applicable.

[0123] FIG. 20 is a schematic side view in which a part of the ionization device 602 according to the seventh embodiment is cut away. The ionization device 602 according to the seventh embodiment has many common parts with the ionization device 502 according to the seventh embodiment. To simplify the description, only the main differences will be described below.

[0124] The ionization device 602 includes a magnetic field generating device 304 as shown in FIG. 11. The ionization device 602 further includes a support structure 604 for supporting the container 4, the light sources 504, 506, and the magnetic field generating device 304 in predetermined positions. More specifically, the support structure 604 includes two blocks 606, 608. The blocks 606, 608 are adapted to be arranged overlapping each other. Each of the blocks 606, 608 includes receptacles 610, 612 on surfaces adapted to face each other. The receptacles 610, 612 have elongated extensions defining a semi-circular cross-section for receiving the container 4. Further, each of the blocks 606, 608 is designed with internal chambers / receptacles for receiving the light sources 504, 506 and the magnetic field generating device 304. Further, each of the blocks 606, 608 is provided with through holes 614 of a specific configuration that match each other for receiving bolts for fixing the blocks 606, 608 to each other. Further, each of the blocks 606, 608 can be adapted to receive the transformers 28, 50 as well.

[0125] FIG. 22 is a graph showing the energy available for ionization at different duty / pulse ratios. As can be seen from the graph, any ratio less than 3.3 (more safely less than 3) is beneficial as a characteristic of the pulse. However, the optimum value is 3. This provides the highest possible ionization efficiency while avoiding reaching the limit of the available ionization energy of 1500 KJ / mol (for 2 * 7.5 kV at 20 kHz transformer). This is because by controlling the fluid flow by pulsing, the contact time during the pause becomes longer.

[0126] FIG. 23 is an exploded perspective view with a part of the arrangement 702 for ionizing a fluid cut away. The arrangement 702 includes the ionization device 302 of FIG. 11 and is disposed within a casing 714 having a generally cylindrical outer shape. The arrangement 702 includes a generally flat rectangular wall 718 and a wall 720 having a generally semi-circular cross-section, and the wall 720 is connected to the flat rectangular wall 718 in a manner that defines an internal space between the walls 718, 720. The ionization device 302 is disposed within the internal space between the walls 718, 720. The transformers 28, 50 are disposed on both sides in the longitudinal direction of the container 4 and are connected to the electrodes 20, 22, 46, 48 as described above. Further, the transformers are located within the internal space between the walls 718, 720.

[0127] FIG. 24 is a schematic view of a device 802 for ionizing a fluid according to an alternative of the first embodiment. The structure of the ionization device 802 has transformers 828, 850 that are different from those of the first embodiment. More specifically, the secondary midpoint of the secondary winding is connected to ground.

[0128] It should be understood that those skilled in the art will recognize that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above and illustrated in the drawings, but rather many changes and modifications can be made within the scope of the appended claims.

[0129] The present invention has been described above in terms of its use for cleaning industrial process fluids. According to an alternative, the present invention can be used for cleaning wastewater such as municipal sewage. According to an alternative, the present invention can also be used for cleaning air within a building, etc. The ionized gas can be used to remove organic and mineral impurities or contaminants. Such organic substances can be bacteria, viruses, other harmful microorganisms, and some organic chemicals, etc.

[0130] Furthermore, the present invention relates to an embodiment in which each of the electrodes in the first pair of electrodes is charged so as to be simultaneously charged negatively or positively, and is described for pulsing a fluid flow. In this way, a potential difference is generated between each electrode and the environment of each electrode, and discharge occurs from each electrode. Therefore, a plurality of discharge structures are simultaneously formed from each of the first pair of electrodes. Similarly, for the second pair of electrodes, each electrode is charged so that discharge occurs from each electrode. According to an alternative embodiment, the pulsing of the fluid flow may be used in a device in which the first electrode of a pair of electrodes is positively charged and the second electrode of the same pair of electrodes is negatively charged, and a continuous arc structure extending between each pair of electrodes can be realized.

Claims

1. A method for ionizing a fluid, wherein a first pair (18) of electrodes (20, 22) are arranged in a container (4, 404) facing each other and at a distance from each other, the method comprising the steps of transporting a gaseous fluid in the container by passing it through the first pair of electrodes in a fluid flow, charging the electrodes (20, 22) in the first pair of electrodes so that a discharge occurs, and supplying the fluid flow in pulses to an inlet (14) of the container (4, 404), the method comprising supplying the fluid flow in pulses to the inlet (14) of the container (4, 404) via pulse durations in the range of 0.25 to 3.0 seconds, with pauses between continuous pulses of 0.25 to 10.0 seconds.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the method includes the step of supplying the fluid flow in a pulsed manner to the inlet (14) of the container (4, 404) via pulse durations in the range of 0.4 to 1.0 seconds, with pauses between continuous pulses of 0.5 to 5.0 seconds.

3. The method according to claim 1, wherein the method includes the step of supplying the fluid flow in a pulsed manner to the inlet (14) of the container (4, 404) via a pulse duration of about 0.5 seconds, with a pause of about 1.5 seconds between consecutive pulses.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the method includes the step of supplying the fluid flow to the inlet (14) of the container (4, 404) at a fluid flow rate in the range of 5 to 80 liters / minute in each pulse.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the method includes the step of supplying the fluid flow to the inlet (14) of the container (4, 404) at a fluid flow rate in the range of 5 to 40 liters / minute in each pulse.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the method includes the step of supplying the fluid flow to the inlet (14) of the container (4, 404) at a fluid flow rate in the range of 8 to 20 liters / minute in each pulse.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the method includes the step of charging each of the electrodes (20, 22) in the first pair (18) electrodes such that the electrodes (20, 22) are simultaneously negatively or positively charged, a potential difference is generated between each of the electrodes (20, 22) and the environment of each electrode, and a discharge occurs from each of the electrodes, the method comprising the step of transporting a gaseous fluid in the container through the first pair (18) electrodes in the environment of each of the electrodes (20, 22) during the charging for the ionization of the fluid.

8. The method according to claim 7, wherein the method includes the step of supplying the electrodes (20, 22) with a voltage of such magnitude that the discharge includes a plurality of discharges formed simultaneously from each of the electrodes (20, 22).

9. The method according to claim 7, wherein the method includes the step of transporting the fluid through the first pair of electrodes (20, 22) at a fluid flow rate such that the discharge is deflected downstream from the electrodes in the direction of the fluid flow.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the container (4, 104) is elongated, the inner surface of the wall (10) of the elongated fluid container has a circular shape in a cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the elongated container (4, 104), the electrodes of the first pair (18) electrodes are spaced apart from each other in the lateral direction of the elongated fluid container, and the inner wall surface of the elongated fluid container has a diameter in the range of 10 to 50 mm, particularly in the range of 10 to 30 mm, preferably in the range of 15 to 25 mm.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the electrodes in the first pair (18) of electrodes are arranged at a distance from each other within a range of 2 to 15 mm, particularly within a range of 2 to 10 mm, preferably within a range of 2 to 4 mm.

12. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein each of the electrodes (20, 22) in the first pair (18) has an elongated shape with a pointed end, and the electrodes are arranged such that the pointed ends face each other.

13. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the method includes the step of supplying the voltage to each electrode (20, 22) of the first pair (18) in the range of 2 to 15 kV, particularly in the range of 5 to 10 kV, preferably about 7.5 kV.

14. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising the step of influencing the fluid flow by a magnetic field (311) near the electrodes in the first pair (18) electrodes in order to influence the discharge which forms a first independent semi-arc structure for supporting the ionization of the fluid by stabilizing and ordering the arc.

15. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the method includes the step of supplying a pressure exceeding 1.1 bar into the container while supplying voltage to the electrode.

16. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the method includes the step of radiating the fluid in the container via a light source (504, 506).

17. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the method subsequently includes the step of supplying the ionized fluid stream to a reservoir downstream of the container for processing the treatment liquid.

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