Method and device for ionizing a fluid

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for ionizing a fluid, wherein a first pair (18) of electrodes (20, 22) are arranged opposite to each other and at a distance from each other within a container (4, 404), the method comprising charging each of the electrodes (20, 22) of the first pair (18) such that the electrodes (20, 22) are simultaneously charged negatively or positively, a potential difference is generated between each of the electrodes (20, 22) and the environment of each respective electrode, and a discharge occurs from each of the electrodes (20, 22), the method comprising, for ionizing the fluid, during charging, conveying, in the environment of each respective electrode (20, 22), the gaseous fluid within the container through the first pair (18) of electrodes.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a method and a device 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 in many cases, it is 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-shaped 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 techniques and attempts to compare their performance in high-concentration and high-yield ozone generation. This technology involves a comparison of different ways of using 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, and the gas passes through the corona discharge. Gas mixing can be 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 ozonator 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 and defines 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 to impart a spiral movement 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, in which a first pair of electrodes are arranged opposite each other and spaced apart within a container, and the method includes the step of charging each of the electrodes in the first pair of electrodes such that the electrodes are simultaneously charged negatively or positively, a potential difference occurs between each of the electrodes and the environment of each electrode, and a discharge occurs from each of the electrodes, and the method includes the step of conveying, for the ionization of the fluid, a gaseous fluid within the container through the first pair of electrodes during the charging in the environment of each electrode.

[0015] More specifically, both electrodes exchange electrons / positrons with the environment of each electrode, and a discharge occurs in the vicinity of each electrode due to the interaction with the ultimately conveyed fluid. The discharge extends a certain distance into the container from each electrode, but no continuous arc extends between the first pair of electrodes.

[0016] This method creates conditions for generating a discharge that is particularly effective for ionizing a fluid. This can be achieved by supplying a voltage of a certain magnitude to the first pair of electrodes such that both electrodes have the same charge simultaneously at each instant, 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 discharge downstream of the electrodes that covers a large cross-section of the container, more specifically, a hemispherical space, and as a result, creates conditions for highly ionizing the fluid passing through the discharge.

[0017] In other words, the discharge can 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.

[0018] According to one example, the discharge extends from each of the electrodes less than halfway or approximately halfway into the container with respect to the central axis of the container and affects the substance passing through the space between the two electrodes.

[0019] According to one example, the discharge includes a discharge having a zigzag shape with a sawtooth pattern because electrons repel each other due to the same charge. At the tip of the sawtooth-shaped discharge portion, the electrons are more excited, resulting in a higher availability of ionization energy (ionization occurs relatively easily).

[0020] The expression "emitting electrons" from the electrodes can also be referred to as "discharging electrons" instead.

[0021] This method can be used for the generation of ROS (reactive oxygen species) and several other substances. The fluid used here can 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 tanks for cleaning industrial process fluids. According to one example, the process fluid is a cutting fluid resulting from industrial cutting operations.

[0022] According to one example, this method includes the step of supplying a voltage of a magnitude at which selective ionization is achieved to a 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 particular 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. The voltage range supplied to the electrodes is selected in such a way that the energy available for ionization of gaseous elements is high enough to ionize oxygen but not high enough to ionize nitrogen.

[0023] Even during long-term use of the device and deterioration of the power supply (such as a transformer), even if the desired oxidant is not generated, no undesirable by-products are generated. This is because the power still remains below the first ionization energy of nitrogen, so undesirable by-products are still avoided. This is one advantage of this technology, which ionizes nitrogen (first ionization) and oxygen (second ionization), differing from many prior arts such as UV and ozone generators that produce the aforementioned undesirable by-products. For example, when a UV lamp deteriorates, the wavelength of the emitted electromagnetic wave changes, and this change affects the availability of ionization energy.

[0024] 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.

[0025] According to one example, there are simultaneous flows of a plurality of electrons from each of the electrodes along different paths, and they form different discharges.

[0026] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the method includes conveying a fluid through a first pair of electrodes at a fluid flow rate such that the first set of discharges is deflected downstream from the electrodes in the direction of the fluid flow.

[0027] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the container is elongated, the inner surface of the wall of the elongated fluid container has a circular shape in a cross-section perpendicular 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 transverse direction of the elongated fluid container, and the inner wall 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.

[0028] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the electrodes in the first pair of electrodes are arranged at a distance from each other in the range of 2 to 15 mm, particularly in the range of 2 to 10 mm, preferably in the range of 2 to 4 mm.

[0029] According to one example, in the case of a container with a diameter in the range of 15 to 25 mm, the distance between the electrodes is in the range of 2 to 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 higher 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.

[0030] According to a further example 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. According to one example, the electrodes in the first pair of electrodes are arranged such that their longitudinal directions are parallel to each other, preferably in a straight line with each other.

[0031] According to a further example embodiment, each of the electrodes in the first pair has an elongated shape with a pointed end that defines an angle in the range of 20 to 35°. Such sharp tips of the electrodes create conditions for creating multiple paths of electrons emitted from the angled surfaces of the electrodes at longitudinally spaced positions. According to one example, the electrodes in the first pair of electrodes are identical.

[0032] According to a further example embodiment, the method includes supplying a voltage to the first pair of electrodes such that both electrodes have either a positive or negative charge simultaneously.

[0033] As a result, at a certain point in time, both electrodes in the first pair of electrodes are positively charged and thus emit electrons, and the fluid flow in the environment of each electrode can be considered to form a negatively charged region due to the interaction with the electrons emitted from the electrodes, and as a result, a discharge projecting from each of the electrodes is formed for the ionization of the fluid.

[0034] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the method includes supplying a voltage to each electrode in the first pair of electrodes in the range of 2 to 15 kV, particularly in the range of 5 to 10 kV, preferably in the range of about 7.5 kV. In order to enable the selective ionization defined above, it has been found that a maximum energy level of about 1500 kJ / mol can be achieved at 7.5 kV per electrode.

[0035] According to one example, in order to supply the voltage, the transformer has one of its output terminals connected to the first electrode of the first pair (and optionally another one of its terminals 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. The transformer then converts an input voltage of 12 to 220 volts at a frequency of 50 to 60 Hz to about 2 * 7.5 kV per pole (associated with one of the electrodes) at a frequency of about 20 kHz by changing the charge (AC current) of the electrodes.

[0036] According to one example, by supplying power to the electrodes at high frequency and high voltage, conditions are created for generating a discharge that is strong enough not to be adversely affected by the passing fluid flow (up to 80 liters per minute). The higher the frequency (of the transformer), the more discharges are formed and become visible.

[0037] According to a further exemplary 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, particularly in the range of 5 to 40 liters per minute, preferably in the range of 8 to 20 liters per minute. This creates discharge conditions characterized by a large number of discharges and a high geographical / spatial coverage rate of the discharges in the vicinity of each electrode environment per cross-section of the container, resulting in increased ionization probability (exposure of the fluid to the discharge) and ionization efficiency.

[0038] According to a further example, the method includes supplying the fluid flow to the inlet of the container in a pulsed manner via a pulse duration in the range of 0.25 to 3.0 seconds with a rest between consecutive pulses of 0.25 to 10.0 seconds, particularly a duration in the range of 0.4 to 1.0 seconds with a rest between consecutive pulses of 0.5 to 5.0 seconds.

[0039] One effect of pulsing is the pressure fluctuations within the container that result in a "hammer drill effect" where the distance between molecules is reduced (thereby increasing the likelihood of ionization). Further, pulsing has an effect of giving the discharge a greater thickness compared to the case without pulses. Thus, pulsing creates conditions that enhance ionization efficiency.

[0040] 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.

[0041] According to a further embodiment, the method includes transporting at least a first portion of the fluid along a helical path within the container.

[0042] 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 discharge in a direction angled with respect to the longitudinal direction of the container, and as a result, more molecules may be ionized by the discharge. Further, such a flow pattern may cause turbulence in the fluid flow, and as a result, more molecules may be ionized by the discharge.

[0043] According to a further embodiment, the method includes transporting at least a second portion of the fluid along a substantially linear path within the container towards a position between a first pair of electrodes. The second portion of the fluid thus significantly contributes to pushing the discharge downstream, thereby creating conditions of high coverage of the cross-section of the container, and thereby increasing the ionization efficiency.

[0044] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the method includes steps for affecting a fluid flow by a magnetic field in the vicinity of an electrode in a first pair of electrodes, interacting with electrons emitted from the electrode, affecting a discharge, and supporting ionization of the fluid. According to one example, the method includes, for supporting ionization of the fluid, affecting the fluid flow by a magnetic field for interaction with electrons emitted from the electrode in the vicinity of and upstream of the electrode in the first pair of electrodes such that a second set of discharges protruding from each of the electrodes is created, and the second set of discharges is created upstream of the first set of discharges in the direction of the fluid flow.

[0045] In other words, a magnetic bridge (a path created by a magnet for electrons) may be created within the container in the vicinity of the first pair of electrodes. The magnetic field affects electrons within the passing fluid flow, and the electrons are maintained for a further few seconds in the ionization area. This provides a better path for generating more discharges. Further, by applying a magnetic field, a similar yield can be achieved with lower power consumption.

[0046] By appropriately arranging the magnetic field, conditions are created for generating a plurality of spreading discharges, increasing the coverage of the cross-section of the container, and increasing the probability that the fluid being conveyed is effectively ionized according to the flow rate of the fluid and the cross-sectional area of the container.

[0047] The discharge can be regarded as a structure between a glow corona and a streamer corona of an arc structure of the prior art. However, since the discharge introduced by this technique does not have a ground electrode and / or a dielectric, it does not fall into the category of corona discharge, and thus has a specific shape due to a specific arrangement of the magnetic field (however, due to visual errors, it may appear like a complete arc extending between the electrodes).

[0048] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the method includes supplying a pressure exceeding 1.1 bar into the container while supplying a voltage to the electrodes. According to a preferred example, the method includes supplying a pressure exceeding 1.5 bar into the container while supplying a voltage to the electrodes. According to one example, the method is operated 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 application, and the pressure level can be up to 10 bar maximum.

[0049] Therefore, the pressure in the container becomes higher than the atmospheric pressure during the charging of the electrodes, and the increase in the pressure of a given volume in the vicinity of each electrode enhances the collisions (of molecules, ions, atoms, electrons, and positrons) and the possibility of ionization around each electrode.

[0050] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the method includes irradiating the fluid in the container via a light source. The interaction between light and matter results in pair production phenomena. In the area where the discharge is formed, the interaction between the photons from the light source and the matter passing through that area results in the emission of waves in different wavelength ranges by the light source. The generated waves enhance 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 the long 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 due to certain ionization effects, 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 arranged 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 embodiment, the second pair of electrodes are arranged opposite to each other and at a distance from each other within the container, and the second pair of electrodes are arranged 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 method includes charging each of the electrodes in the second pair of electrodes such that they are simultaneously charged positively or negatively, and synchronizing the charging of the first pair of electrodes with respect to the second pair of electrodes such that when the first pair of electrodes are charged positively, the second pair of electrodes are charged negatively and vice versa.

[0056] More specifically, the second pair of electrodes are arranged at a distance from the first pair of electrodes sufficient to avoid interference of the discharges 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.

[0057] According to a further development of the last-described embodiment example, the method includes connecting the first electrode in the first pair of electrodes and the first electrode in the second pair of electrodes to the opposing terminals of a first power source, and connecting the second electrode in the first pair of electrodes and the second electrode in the second pair of electrodes to the opposing terminals of a second power source.

[0058] According to a further aspect of the present invention, it relates to a device for ionizing a fluid. More specifically, the device includes a container, a first pair of electrodes disposed opposite and spaced apart from each other within the container, and a power source adapted to charge the first pair of electrodes such that the electrodes are simultaneously charged positively or negatively, a potential difference is generated between each of the electrodes and the environment of each electrode, and discharge occurs from each of the electrodes. The container is adapted to convey a gaseous fluid in a flow passing through the first pair of electrodes in the environment of each electrode during the charging for the ionization of the fluid.

[0059] According to a further embodiment example, the device includes a second pair of electrodes disposed opposite and spaced apart from each other within the container. The second pair of electrodes is disposed downstream of the first pair and at a distance from the first pair in the direction of the fluid flow within the container. The power source is adapted to charge each of the electrodes in the second pair of electrodes such that they simultaneously have the same charge, and to synchronize the charging of the second pair of electrodes with respect to the first pair of electrodes such that when the first pair of electrodes is charged positively, the second pair of electrodes is charged negatively, and vice versa.

[0060] According to a further embodiment example, 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 a 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 a second power source.

[0061] Further advantages and advantageous features of the present invention are disclosed in the following description and the dependent claims.

[0062] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, embodiments of the present invention given as examples will be described in more detail.

Brief Description of the Drawings

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Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0064] FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a device 2 for ionizing a fluid in a gaseous state according to the first embodiment. Hereinafter, the fluid in the gaseous state is referred to as gas. According to an 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. FIG. 2 is a perspective view from above the container 4 of FIG. 1.

[0065] The container wall 10 is formed of glass. The container may be formed of two identical container portions separated by a plane passing through the central axis of the container 4. According to an alternative, the container 4 is formed in one piece with a cap at one end.

[0066] Furthermore, an inlet 14 is provided at the first longitudinal end 6 of the container 4, an outlet 16 is provided at the second longitudinal end 8 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.

[0067] 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 referred to as 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.

[0068] According to physical laws, when an element is charged, the charged portion accumulates at any sharp edge of the element. Therefore, the charged portion highly accumulates 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.

[0069] Therefore, the design of the electrodes 20, 22 with sharp tips having acute angles 24, 26, especially from 20 degrees to 35 degrees (preferably 22 degrees to form more discharges and extend the life of the electrodes), creates good conditions for creating discharges from the surface of the tip having an inclination with respect to the longitudinal direction of the elongated electrode. More specifically, a first set of discharges extending downstream from the electrode tip can be created. Further, a second set of discharges extending upstream from the electrode tip can be created. This will be described in more detail below in connection with FIGS. 14 and 15.

[0070] 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 simultaneously. In this way, a potential difference can occur between each electrode 20, 22 and the environment of each electrode, and discharges can occur simultaneously from each electrode. Further, the gaseous fluid in the container is conveyed through the first pair 18 of electrodes in the environment of each electrode 20, 22 for ionization of the fluid during said charging.

[0071] 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. Therefore, the power supplies 28, 50 are adapted to supply a voltage to the first pair of electrodes 18 such that both electrodes 20, 22 are positively charged simultaneously and thus emit electrons. This is schematically shown in the 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 interact 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 in the container according to FIG. 4. Further, each discharge is in the shape of a zigzag with a sawtooth shape.

[0072] 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 a voltage of 2 * 7.5 kV for each pole (associated with 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.

[0073] 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 with respect 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.

[0074] 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 polarities of the electrodes connected to the two output terminals / poles of one transformer change very quickly (every 0.00005 seconds).

[0075] 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.

[0076] 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 is 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 is disposed in a portion of the container 4 having a constant cross-section with a distance of about 30 mm between adjacent electrode pairs. 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 can occur separately from each electrode. Accordingly, the power supplies 28, 50 are adapted to also supply the second pair 44 of electrodes with a voltage such that both electrodes 46, 48 are charged positively simultaneously and thus emit / exchange electrons / positrons.

[0077] 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 is charged positively, the second pair 44 of electrodes 46, 48 is charged negatively and vice versa.

[0078] 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 Hertz and frequency laws and will ultimately synchronize in a steady state. Accordingly, 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.

[0079] Therefore, 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 of electrodes 18 and the first electrode 46 in the second pair of electrodes 44 are connected to the opposing terminals of the first transformer 28. Further, the second electrode 20 in the first pair of electrodes 18 and the second electrode 48 in the second pair of electrodes 44 are connected to the opposing terminals of the second transformer 50.

[0080] The ionization device 2 further includes gas flow pump means 52 for supplying a gas flow from a 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 of electrodes 18, 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.

[0081] It should be noted that the present device is not limited to the use of a gas supply tank. This can be, for example, a compressor or an industrial blower that uses ambient air.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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 an ionized gas can be supplied below the surface of the treatment liquid in order to separate inorganic substances or minerals such as metals by precipitation or to kill bacteria.

[0084] 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.

[0085] 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. Due to the pulsing, more ionized air is sent into the mixture per volume of the output fluid compared to the untreated air (O2).

[0086] FIG. 6 is a schematic view 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.

[0087] 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.

[0088] 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.

[0089] 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 inside the container 4 is maintained, or at least does not significantly decrease, thanks to the first fluid flow guiding unit 106. The intermolecular distance is reduced, the retention time inside 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 in order to provide the backpressure that the liquid in the tank has to overcome.

[0090] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the first fluid flow guiding unit 106 provided inside 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 for substantially guiding a second portion of the incoming fluid flow in the longitudinal direction of the elongated container 4.

[0091] 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 for conveying a substantially large portion of the incoming fluid flow.

[0092] 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 inside the container 4 such that the rounded surfaces are in fluid-tight contact with each other.

[0093] More specifically, the first fluid flow guiding unit 106 is fixedly connected to the container 4 in the operating position, such as via a welded 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 an example, the first fluid flow guiding unit 106 is formed of glass. This provides the conditions for firmly connecting the first fluid flow guiding unit 106 to the container 4 in the operating position via welding.

[0094] 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.

[0095] At least one peripheral fluid flow guiding channel 108, 118, 120 is open radially of 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.

[0096] 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. The wall of each of the sections 126, 128, 130 faces in the longitudinal direction of the container 4 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.

[0097] 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.

[0098] 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, only the main differences will be described below.

[0099] The ionization device 202 includes a second fluid flow guiding unit 206. The two fluid flow guiding units 106, 206 are arranged at intervals along 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.

[0100] 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.

[0101] 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.

[0102] 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 18 of electrodes in order to affect the discharge structure for supporting the ionization of the gas. The magnetic field generating device 304 is arranged outside the container 4. Thereby, since it is not exposed to the internal environment (friction and heat) of the container 4, the conditions for the long life of the magnetic field generating device 304 are met.

[0103] The magnetic field generating device 304 includes a first section 305 arranged upstream of the first pair 18 of electrodes in the longitudinal direction of the container, and 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 discharges 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.

[0104] 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 protruding from each of 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.

[0105] 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.

[0106] More specifically, the first magnetic field generation section 305 includes a plurality of magnetic field generation units 310 arranged circumferentially spaced around the container. According to the illustrated example, the first magnetic field generation section 305 includes six magnetic field generation units 310 arranged circumferentially spaced around the container. Such an arrangement provides a more organized and symmetric discharge structure, spreads the entire circumference of the electrode pair evenly in all directions, and covers the entire cross-section of the reaction chamber in proportion to the controlled flow rate of the fluid being conveyed. 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.

[0107] Referring also to FIG. 12, 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 extending 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.

[0108] FIG. 13 is a front view with a part of the ionization device 302 of FIG. 11 cut away. The ring-shaped support 312 is arranged close to the outer wall surface of the container 4. 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.

[0109] Referring to FIG. 11, the magnetic field generation device 304 includes a second section 307 disposed 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 or the like. 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 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.

[0110] 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.

[0111] 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.

[0112] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a container 404 according to an alternative design to 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 disposed 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.

[0113] FIG. 18 shows an ionization device 402 according to a fifth embodiment including the container 404 according to 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.

[0114] 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 additionally, depending on the purpose, an anode can be used to absorb the positively charged portion of the flow.

[0115] Figure 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.

[0116] The ionization device 502 includes at least one light source 504, 506 adapted to irradiate the gas flow in the container, thereby supporting the ionization of the gas. The interaction of light and matter results in the pair production phenomenon.

[0117] The light sources 504 and 506 are in the form of strips extending in the longitudinal direction of the container 4. The strips of the light sources 504 and 506 have a main extension along a straight line. More specifically, the two light sources 504 and 506 are arranged opposite to each other with an interval of 180°. More specifically, the two light sources 504 and 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, and in the illustrated example, they extend substantially along its entire length. The light sources 504 and 506 are arranged outside the container 4. As a result, they are not exposed to the internal environment (friction and heat) of the container 4, thus providing conditions for the light sources to have a long lifespan. Since the container wall is transparent, the radiation from the light source 504 can irradiate the fluid flow.

[0118] At least one of the light sources 504 and 506 includes a plurality of light source units arranged at intervals in the longitudinal direction of their respective strips. The light sources 504 and 506 may be light-emitting diodes (LEDs) adapted to emit ultraviolet (UV) light. As an alternative, xenon lamps can also be used. According to one example, the light sources 504 and 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.

[0119] 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.

[0120] FIG. 20 is a schematic side view of a part of the ionization device 602 according to the seventh embodiment, with a part 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. For the sake of simplicity, only the main differences will be described below.

[0121] 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 also be adapted to receive the transformers 28, 50.

[0122] FIG. 22 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 arranged within a casing 714 having a generally cylindrical outer shape. The arrangement 702 includes a generally flat rectangular wall 718 and a wall 720 with a generally semi-circular cross-section, and the wall 720 is connected to the flat rectangular wall 718 in a form that defines an internal space between the walls 718, 720. The ionization device 302 is arranged in the internal space between the walls 718, 720. The transformers 28, 50 are arranged 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.

[0123] FIG. 23 is a schematic diagram of a device 802 for ionizing a fluid according to an alternative of the first embodiment. The structure of the transformers 828, 850 of the ionization device 802 is different from that of the first embodiment. More specifically, the secondary midpoint of the secondary winding is connected to ground.

[0124] It should be understood by those skilled in the art 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.

[0125] 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. The ionized gas can be used to remove organic and mineral impurities or contaminants. Such organic substances can be, for example, bacteria, viruses, other harmful microorganisms, and some organic chemicals.

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 step of charging each of the electrodes (20, 22) in the first pair (18) of electrodes such that the power supply (20, 22) is 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 charging each of the electrodes (20, 22) in the first pair (18) of electrodes such that the electrodes (20, 22) in the first pair (18) are simultaneously negatively or positively charged The method includes the step of connecting a first electrode at the electrodes (20, 22) of a first transformer to a first output terminal of a first power supply (28) in the form of a first transformer, and simultaneously connecting a second electrode at the electrodes (20, 22) of the first pair (18) to a first output terminal of a second power supply (50) in the form of a second transformer, wherein the first and second transformers are formed by two identical transformers, and the method includes the step of transporting a gaseous fluid in the container through the electrodes of the first pair (18) in the environment of each of the electrodes (20, 22) during charging for the ionization of the fluid.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the method includes the step of high-frequency charging the electrodes (20, 22) of the first pair (18) electrodes (20, 22) to such an extent that the discharge extends a distance within the container from each of the electrodes, but no continuous arc extends between the first pair of electrodes, and the discharge is formed simultaneously from each of the electrodes (20, 22).

3. The method according to claim 2, 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.

4. 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 (4, 104) has a circular shape in a cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the elongated fluid container, the electrodes (20, 22) 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 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.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the electrodes (20, 22) of the first pair (18) 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.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein each of the electrodes (20, 22) 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.

7. The method according to claim 6, wherein each of the electrodes (20, 22) in the first pair has an elongated shape with a pointed end defining an angle in the range of 20 to 35°.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the method includes the step of supplying a voltage to the first pair of electrodes (20, 22) such that both electrodes simultaneously have either a positive or negative charge.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein the method includes the step of supplying the voltage to each electrode (20, 22) of the first pair of electrodes in the range of 2 to 15 kV, particularly in the range of 5 to 10 kV, preferably about 7.5 kV.

10. The method according to claim 8, wherein the method includes the step of supplying the voltage to each electrode (20, 22) of the first pair of electrodes in a frequency range of 10 to 30 kHz, particularly about 20 kHz.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the method includes the step of supplying the fluid flow to the container (4) at a fluid flow rate in the range of 5 to 80 liters / min, particularly 5 to 40 liters / min, preferably 8 to 20 liters / min.

12. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the method includes the step of transporting at least a first portion of the fluid along a helical path within the container.

13. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the method includes the step of transporting at least a second portion of the fluid along a substantially linear path within the container toward a position between the first pair of electrodes.

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 (20, 22) in the first pair (18) electrodes in order to influence the structure of the discharge for supporting the ionization of the fluid by stabilizing and ordering the discharge.

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 the electrode is being charged.

16. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising the step of radiating the fluid in the container through a light source (504, 506) which results in an increase in ionization efficiency.

17. The electrodes (46, 48) of the second pair (44) are arranged in the container (4, 404) facing each other and at a distance from each other, and the electrodes (46, 48) of the second pair (44) are arranged downstream of the first pair (18) and at a distance from the electrodes (20, 22) of the first pair (18) in the direction of the fluid flow in the container, and the method is such that each of the electrodes (46, 48) of the second pair (44) is such that they The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising the steps of charging so that the electrodes (20, 22) of the first pair (20) are simultaneously negatively or positively charged, and synchronizing the charging of the electrodes (46, 48) of the first pair (20) with respect to the electrodes (46, 48) of the second pair (44), such that when the electrodes (20, 22) of the first pair (20) are positively charged, the electrodes (46, 48) of the second pair (44) are negatively charged, and vice versa.

18. The method according to claim 17, wherein the method includes the steps of connecting a first electrode in the first pair of electrodes (20, 22) of the first pair (18) and a first electrode in the second pair of electrodes (46, 48) of the second pair (44) to opposing terminals of a first power supply (28), and connecting a second electrode in the first pair of electrodes (20, 22) of the first pair (18) and a second electrode in the second pair of electrodes (46, 48) of the second pair (44) to opposing terminals of a second power supply (50).

19. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the magnitude of the voltage supplied to the electrode is selected in such a manner that the energy available for ionizing the gaseous element is sufficiently high to ionize oxygen, but not sufficiently high to ionize nitrogen.

20. A device for ionizing a fluid (2, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502), the device comprising a container (4, 404), a first pair (18) of electrodes (20, 22) arranged facing each other and at a distance from each other within the container, and a power supply (28, 50) adapted to charge the first pair (18) of electrodes such that they are simultaneously negatively or positively charged, creating a potential difference between each of the electrodes (20, 22) and the environment of each electrode, causing a discharge from each of the electrodes, wherein the first electrode in the first pair (18) of electrodes (20, 22) is first A device wherein the first power supply (28) in the form of a transformer is arranged to be connected to the first output terminal of the first power supply (50) in the form of a second transformer, and the second electrode of the first pair (18) electrodes (20, 22) is arranged to be connected to the first output terminal of the second power supply (50) in the form of a second transformer, and the first and second transformers are formed by two identical transformers, and the container (4, 404) is adapted to transport a gaseous fluid in a flow passing through the first pair (18) electrodes in the environment of the respective electrodes (20, 22) during charging for the ionization of the fluid.

21. The device includes a second pair (44) of electrodes (46, 48) arranged facing each other and at a distance from each other within the container (4, 404), wherein the second pair (44) of electrodes (46, 48) is arranged downstream of the first pair (18) and at a distance from the first pair (18) of electrodes (20, 22) in the direction of fluid flow within the container, and the power supply (28, 50) is connected to the electrodes (46) of the second pair (44). The device according to claim 20, wherein each of the electrodes (20, 22) of the first pair (20) is charged such that they are simultaneously negatively or positively charged, and the charging of the electrodes (46, 48) of the second pair (44) is synchronized with the charging of the electrodes (46, 48) of the second pair (44) such that when the electrodes (20, 22) of the first pair (20) are positively charged, the electrodes (46, 48) of the second pair (44) are negatively charged, and vice versa.

22. The device according to claim 21, wherein the first electrode of the first pair of electrodes (20, 22) of the first pair (18) and the first electrode of the second pair of electrodes (46, 48) of the second pair (44) are connected to opposing terminals of the first power supply (28), and the second electrode of the first pair of electrodes (20, 22) of the first pair (18) and the second electrode of the second pair of electrodes (46, 48) of the second pair (44) are connected to opposing terminals of the second power supply (50).

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