Vapor condensation

Abstract

An aerosol condensation system is provided that includes a source electrode electrically connected to a power source that applies a voltage to the source electrode, a condenser including a sink electrode for collecting aerosol contained in an airflow at the sink electrode, and a duct configured to direct the aerosol to the condenser, wherein the source and sink electrodes generate an electric field within the duct.

Description

Disclosed Content

[0001] [Cross - Reference to Related Applications] This application claims the benefit of priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 754,673, filed on November 2, 2018, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 779,847, filed on December 14, 2018, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 903,596, filed on September 20, 2019, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0002] [Technical Field] The present subject matter generally relates to the condensation of vapors, for example, water vapor condensation systems.

[0003] [Background] Water scavenging can be a sustainable solution to the water shortage problem in many regions of the world. Desalination is a form of purifying liquids, especially water, and refers to the process of removing salts and other minerals to some extent from saltwater. By desalination, saltwater can be converted into fresh water suitable for human consumption, irrigation, or other uses. Due to relatively high energy consumption, the cost of seawater desalination is generally higher than alternatives (e.g., fresh water from rivers or groundwater, water recycling, water conservation, etc.), but alternatives are not always available. Reverse osmosis is another process for purifying water. However, reverse osmosis uses expensive membranes and high pressure and requires a significant amount of energy.

[0004] [Summary] One aspect of the present disclosure provides an aerosol condensation system. The system can include a source electrode electrically connected to a power source that applies a voltage to the source electrode, a condenser including a sink electrode for collecting aerosols contained in an air stream, and a duct configured to direct the aerosol to the condenser. The source electrode and the sink electrode can generate an electric field within the duct.

[0005] One or more of the following features can be included in any executable combination. For example, the source electrode can include a source mesh, and the source mesh can include a first network of wires. For example, the source mesh can include a wire diameter of 0.5 mm to 5 mm, and the characteristic dimension of the opening of the source mesh can be 1 mm to 15 mm. The source mesh can include stainless steel, nickel, a conductive polymer, or a conductive silicone. The source mesh can include a plurality of layers, each including a network of wires. The sink electrode can include a condensation mesh, and the condensation mesh can include a second network of wires. The sink electrode can condense the aerosol on the condensation mesh to form droplets that settle at least by gravity.

[0006] The condenser can include an inlet configured to receive an air stream having a first relative humidity, an outlet configured to discharge an air stream having a second relative humidity lower than the first relative humidity, and a reservoir configured to collect droplets. The condensation mesh can include a wire diameter of 0.5 mm to 5 mm, and the characteristic dimension of the opening of the condensation mesh can be 1 mm to 15 mm. The condensation mesh can include stainless steel, nickel, a conductive polymer, or a conductive silicone. The condensation mesh can include a plurality of layers, each including a network of wires.

[0007] The power supply can include a direct current (DC) power supply that generates a voltage of 20 V to 10 kV. The sink electrode can be electrically grounded or connected to an opposing power supply that provides an opposing charge to the sink electrode.

[0008] This system can include a blower configured to drive an air stream containing an aerosol through a source electrode along a duct to the condenser. Also, the cross-sectional area of the duct can be increased along the flow direction of the air stream, and the sink electrode can be arranged in a convex shape that protrudes in the flow direction of the air stream.

[0009] In another aspect, a method of condensing an aerosol can include applying an electric field between a source electrode and a sink electrode, wherein the source electrode is electrically connected to a power source that applies a voltage to the source electrode, condensing the aerosol contained in an air stream into droplets at the sink electrode, and collecting the condensed droplets. This method can also include blowing an air stream along a duct with a blower. The electric field can be applied with a direct current (DC) power source that generates a voltage of 20 V to 10 kV. The sink electrode can be electrically grounded or connected to an opposing power source that provides an opposite charge to the sink electrode.

[0010] In yet another aspect, an aerosol condensation system can include a condenser including a source electrode that is electrically connected to a power source that applies a voltage to the source electrode, and a sink electrode for collecting the aerosol contained in an air stream. The source electrode and the sink electrode can generate an electric field, and the sink electrode can condense the aerosol on a condenser mesh to form droplets that settle at least by gravity.

[0011] One or more of the following features can be included in any practicable combination. For example, the condenser can include an inlet configured to receive an air stream having a first relative humidity, an outlet configured to discharge an air stream having a second relative humidity lower than the first relative humidity, and a reservoir configured to collect droplets. The system can include an electrostatic precipitator (ESP) disposed downstream of the condenser for capturing solid particles. The system can include a wind turbine disposed upstream or downstream of the condenser. The wind turbine can be configured to generate electrical power that can be supplied to a power source. The system can include a duct configured to direct the aerosol to the condenser, and the duct can include a converging portion, a diverging portion, or both.

[0012] In yet another aspect, a method of controlling humidity may include applying an electric field between a source electrode and a sink electrode, wherein the source electrode is electrically connected to a power source that applies a voltage to the source electrode, and controlling the humidity of an air flow by the sink electrode. Controlling the humidity of the air flow may include supplying water at the sink electrode when the humidity of the air flow is less than a preset target humidity. The water may be supplied from a water storage tank. Controlling the humidity of the air flow may also include condensing water at the sink electrode and collecting the condensed water when the humidity of the air flow is higher than the preset target humidity. The condensed water may be collected in the water storage tank. Controlling the humidity of the air flow may include adjusting the voltage applied to the source electrode. Controlling the humidity of the air flow may also include measuring the humidity of the air flow using a humidity sensor, generating a control signal based on the measured humidity of the air flow using a proportional integral derivative (PID) controller, and outputting the control signal to adjust the voltage applied to the source electrode.

[0013] In yet another aspect, a non-transitory computer-readable medium may include program instructions executable by a processor or a controller, and the computer-readable medium may include a memory configured to store the program instructions and a processor configured to execute the program instructions. When executed, the program instructions may receive a humidity value of an air flow from a humidity sensor, generate a control signal based on the received humidity value of the air flow, and cause a source electrode of a humidity control system to output a voltage corresponding to the control signal.

[0014] In yet another aspect, a method of monitoring and controlling a cooling tower may include measuring a first temperature of a cooling flow discharged from the cooling tower, measuring a second temperature of a high-temperature flow entering the cooling tower, calculating a temperature difference between the first temperature and the second temperature, and adjusting a first flow rate of the cooling flow such that the temperature difference corresponds to a predetermined target temperature difference between the first temperature and the second temperature.

[0015] One or more of the following features can be included in any practicable combination. For example, the method can include adding a makeup flow to the cooling flow. The mixing ratio of the makeup flow and the cooling flow can be determined based on the temperature difference between the first temperature and the second temperature. The method can include adjusting the rotational speed of a fan to adjust the flow rate of the cooling air. The method can include measuring the acidity of the cooling flow and adjusting the acidity by adjusting the mixing ratio of the makeup flow.

[0016] In yet another aspect, a system for monitoring and controlling a cooling tower can include a first temperature sensor for measuring a first temperature of a cooling flow discharged from the cooling tower, a second temperature sensor for measuring a second temperature of a high-temperature flow entering the cooling tower, a first valve for adjusting a first flow rate of the cooling flow, a second valve for adjusting a second flow rate of the high-temperature flow, a memory configured to store program instructions, and a processor configured to execute the program instructions. The program instructions, when executed, can cause the processor to collect data from the first temperature sensor and the second temperature sensor and to adjust the first valve or the second valve such that the temperature difference between the first temperature and the second temperature corresponds to a predetermined target temperature difference.

[0017] One or more of the following features can be included in any practicable combination. For example, the processor can be configured to adjust the fan speed. The processor can be configured to adjust the mixing ratio of the makeup flow and the cooling flow such that the temperature difference between the first temperature and the second temperature corresponds to a target temperature difference. The processor can be configured to adjust the mixing ratio of the makeup flow and the cooling flow to correspond the acidity of the cooling flow to a predetermined target acidity. The system can also include an acidity sensor for measuring the acidity of the cooling flow.

[0018] Details of one or more variations of the subject matter described in this specification are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the following description. Other features and advantages of the subject matter described in this specification will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0019]

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[0020] 〔Detailed Description〕 The present subject matter can provide a safe and energy-efficient technology for condensing and collecting atmospheric aerosols, such as water droplets, by applying an electric field between a source electrode and a sink electrode and driving the aerosol along the electric field. By generating an electric field and driving the aerosol without ionizing the aerosol with a high voltage power supply, the system can be implemented to be safer, more efficient, and produce water with fewer impurities compared to some conventional approaches. Exemplary applications include turbine cooling towers and combustion chimneys. Existing infrastructure can be retrofitted and integrated using the present subject matter.

[0021] Techniques for collecting water droplets or vapor from ambient air can include collectors in the form of wire meshes, and condensation depends on the inertial impingement of water droplets or vapor onto the collector mesh for droplet capture. These techniques can be limited by aerodynamic drag since the droplets may be required to collide with the wire mesh.

[0022] Problems associated with previous approaches to the condensation and collection of steam can be solved by utilizing electrical power. Water vapor in the ambient air can be charged and directed towards a collector by an applied electric field. When the water vapor is charged, it can be attracted to a collector with an opposite charge. As a result, the charged water vapor can collide with the surface of the collector mesh with a high probability. Upon collision, the droplets can adhere to the mesh and grow as they aggregate with other incoming droplets. When they grow large and heavy enough on the collector mesh, the droplets can precipitate by gravity, and the precipitating droplets can be collected in a reservoir.

[0023] There can be several different means for collecting atmospheric aerosols that mainly contain water. In some conventional approaches, a corona discharge can be used to introduce space charge into the water vapor to give a net charge to the incoming droplets. The corona discharge can be generated using a sharp metal needle connected to a high-voltage generator. Typically, the voltage for generating a stable corona discharge ranges from -10 kV to -24 kV.

[0024] However, when using corona discharge to charge the surrounding water vapor, problems can arise. For example, corona discharge can ionize the surrounding air and generate gases such as ozone (O3) and nitrogen monoxide (NO). Nitrogen monoxide can be further oxidized through photochemical reactions to produce nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and subsequently nitric acid (HNO3). These gases and liquids are toxic, corrosive, and harmful to the environment. When a water vapor condensation system is made with a corona discharge system, since what is collected by the collector is a corrosive and toxic acid, the collected liquid requires further treatment if it is desired to be used for useful purposes. Furthermore, a corona discharge system can be dangerous due to the high voltage associated with it when implemented for a water vapor condensation system, can waste a large amount of energy, and / or can interfere with adjacent electronic devices due to the high voltage discharge. Additionally, a corona discharge system poses an explosion risk if the system is surrounded by debris (e.g., dust particles) and / or loose articles having a high surface area.

[0025] In some embodiments, an electric field can be applied within a predetermined space to induce and collect atmospheric aerosols. In a system that uses an electric field to collect atmospheric aerosols, the system may not require a high voltage generator, and thus the surrounding air may not be ionized. Since the dielectric breakdown voltage of air is relatively high, at about 3 kV / mm, a substantial electric field can be applied within a predetermined space to drive the aerosol to a specific location (e.g., a sink electrode) where the aerosol can be coagulated and collected. As a result, no toxic and corrosive gases and liquids are generated. This system can be implemented to be safer than a corona discharge system, has good energy utilization efficiency, further produces water with fewer impurities, and enables the collected water to be directly used (e.g., without further treatment or purification). Since this system relies on the polar characteristics of water molecules, this system can distinguish polar aerosols (e.g., water) from non-polar aerosols (e.g., dust), thereby producing condensed water with fewer impurities.

[0026] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a system 100 for condensing steam according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 1, a system 100 for condensing steam can include a source electrode 110, a condenser 120, and a duct 140.

[0027] The source electrode 110 can be electrically connected to a power source 130 capable of applying a voltage to the source electrode 110. The source electrode 110 can apply an electric field within the duct 140 to drive atmospheric aerosols contained in the incoming air flow. The source electrode 110 can include a source mesh. An example of the source mesh is shown in FIG. 3. Referring to FIG. 3, the source mesh can include a plurality of layers 111, 112, and 113.

[0028] Each of the plurality of layers 111, 112, and 113 can have a plurality of openings. Each opening 114 formed in each of the plurality of layers 111, 112, and 113 can have a characteristic dimension of 1 mm to 15 mm depending on applications, flow rate requirements, applied voltage, etc. In some embodiments, the characteristic dimensions of each opening 114 may be the same or different among the plurality of openings. Further, the openings 114 of the plurality of layers 111, 112, and 113 may be aligned with each other or may be staggered. The source mesh of the source electrode 110 can be made of a conductive material. Examples of materials that can be used for the source mesh include stainless steel, nickel, conductive polymers, and conductive silicone. Further, the source mesh may be made of and / or coated with a hydrophobic material to prevent the uptake of water vapor. Also, the source electrode 110 may be realized by a liquid or a gas depending on applications and usage environments.

[0029] The source mesh may include a network of wires. The network of wires can include a plurality of wires that are intertwined or woven together. Each layer of the source mesh can include a plurality of wires that are intertwined or woven together and extend in a predetermined pattern at substantially regular intervals. In this exemplary embodiment of the source mesh, the characteristic dimension of the opening 114 can be defined by the regular interval of the pattern. Alternatively or additionally, the source mesh may be formed to include randomly woven wires. In this exemplary embodiment, the characteristic dimension of the opening 114 can be defined by the maximum diameter of the particles that can pass through without being filtered beyond a certain threshold transmission efficiency. For example, if a certain percentage of particles larger than 1 mm can be transmitted through the source mesh, the characteristic dimension of the opening 114 can be referred to as 1 mm. The threshold transmission efficiency may be set to 90%, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The wires forming the source mesh can have a diameter of 0.5 mm to 5 mm, depending on the application, flow rate requirements, applied voltage, etc. Although an example of a wire mesh including horizontal and vertical wires has been described, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The source mesh can consist of only horizontal wires or only vertical wires.

[0030] Water vapor is attracted to and collected in the condenser 120. As shown in FIG. 4, the condenser 120 can include an inlet 121, an outlet 122, and a reservoir 123. During operation, the inlet 121 can receive an incoming air stream having a first relative humidity value. The outlet 122 can discharge an outgoing air stream having a second relative humidity value. To achieve a net condensation of water vapor, the second relative humidity may be lower than the first relative humidity. The condensed water in the condenser 120 can be collected in the reservoir 123. As used herein, the relative humidity value refers to the ratio of the partial pressure of water vapor to the saturated vapor pressure of water at a given temperature.

[0031] The condenser 120 can include a sink electrode 125. The sink electrode 125 may be electrically grounded and / or connected to a power source 130 that provides a charge opposite to the charge applied to the source electrode 110. Although FIG. 1 shows an exemplary embodiment in which a common power source 130 supplies charge to both the source electrode 110 and the sink electrode 125, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The source electrode 110 and the sink electrode 125 may be connected to separate power sources.

[0032] The sink electrode 125 can include a condensation mesh. As shown in FIG. 3, the condensation mesh can include a plurality of layers 126, 127, and 128 to provide a surface area sufficient to allow water vapor to adhere to the surface of the condensation mesh and condense thereon. During operation, the condensed water vapor can aggregate with other condensed water vapor on the surface of the condensation mesh to form water droplets, which can further aggregate with each other until they grow large and heavy. When these become large and heavy enough, the water droplets can precipitate due to gravity. A reservoir 123 can be disposed under the sink electrode 125 to collect the precipitating water droplets.

[0033] In the condensation mesh, as shown in FIG. 3, the plurality of layers 126, 127, and 128 may each have a plurality of openings. Each opening 129 can have a characteristic dimension of 1 mm to 15 mm, depending on the application, flow rate requirements, neutralization efficiency, etc. The characteristic dimensions of the plurality of openings 129 may be the same or different among the plurality of openings. The openings 129 of the plurality of layers 126, 127, and 128 may be aligned with each other or may be staggered to increase the chance of the aerosol colliding with the surface of the source mesh. The condensation mesh of the sink electrode 125 can be made of a conductive material. Examples of materials used for the condensation mesh can include stainless steel, nickel, conductive polymers, and conductive silicone. Further, the condensation mesh may be made of and / or coated with a hydrophilic material to more easily promote the condensation of water vapor on the mesh surface. The sink electrode 125 may also be realized by a liquid or a gas, depending on the application and the use environment.

[0034] Similar to the source mesh, the condensation mesh can include a network of wires. The network of wires can include a plurality of wires that are woven or braided together. Each layer of the condensation mesh can include a plurality of wires that are woven or braided together and extend in a predetermined pattern at substantially regular intervals. In this exemplary embodiment of the condensation mesh, the characteristic dimension of the opening 129 can be defined by the regular interval of the pattern. Alternatively, the condensation mesh may be formed as randomly woven wires. In this exemplary embodiment, the characteristic dimension of the opening 129 can be defined by the maximum diameter of the particles that can pass through without being filtered beyond a certain threshold transmission efficiency. For example, if a certain percentage of particles of 1 mm can be transmitted through the condensation mesh, the characteristic dimension of the opening 129 can be referred to as 1 mm. The threshold transmission efficiency may be 90%, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The wires forming the condensation mesh can have a diameter of 0.5 mm to 5 mm depending on the application, flow rate requirements, applied voltage, etc. Although an example of a wire mesh including horizontal and vertical wires has been described, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The condensation mesh can consist of only horizontal or vertical wires.

[0035] Generally, the source mesh and the condensation mesh desirably have a minimum characteristic dimension to provide a more finely dispersed electric field. However, in order to ensure a sufficient air flow through the system, it may be necessary to keep the pressure drop across the mesh within a certain value. Therefore, the pressure drop requirement may determine the lower limit of the characteristic dimension of the mesh.

[0036] As described above, the power supply 130 can be electrically connected to the source electrode 110, the sink electrode 125, or both. In some embodiments, the power supply 130 may be implemented as a direct current (DC) power supply having a rated voltage of 20V to 10kV. For example, the applied voltage may be 7kV. The power or voltage can be determined based on the size of the system, the processing capacity of the system, and the like. In some embodiments, the power supply 130 may be implemented as a direct current (DC) power supply having a rated voltage of 20V to 9kV; 20V to 8kV; 20V to 7kV; 20V to 6kV; 20V to 5kV; 20V to 4kV; 20V to 3kV; 20V to 2kV; 20V to 1kV; 1kV to 9kV; 2kV to 8kV; 3kV to 7kV; or 4kV to 6kV.

[0037] As shown in FIG. 1, the duct 140 can guide and conduct water vapor from the source electrode 110 side toward the sink electrode 125 side. In some embodiments, it is not desirable for charged vapor to be attracted to the surface of the duct 140. To address this problem, the surface of the duct 140 can be made conductive. If the surface of the duct 140 is conductive, some charged particles can first be captured by the surface of the duct 140 and can charge the entire surface of the duct 140 with the same charge as the water vapor. Once the surface of the duct 140 is charged with the same charge as the water vapor, other charged vapor arriving later can be repelled from the surface of the duct 140, thereby enabling the charged vapor to be transmitted through the duct 140 with high transmission efficiency without being captured by the surface of the duct 140.

[0038] Accordingly, the duct 140 can include a conductive material. In some embodiments, the duct 140 can include (e.g., be made of) an electrically insulating material such as plastic, and its inner surface may be coated or painted with a conductive material. Depending on the application, the duct 140 can include a long flow path for placing the source electrode 110 and the condenser 120 in separate locations. In such a case, the duct 140 may include a flexible plastic material or polymer material, and its inner surface can be coated with a conductive material.

[0039] On the other hand, depending on the application, it may be desirable for charged water vapor to adhere to the surface of the duct 140 in order to increase the overall vapor removal efficiency. In such a case, the duct 140 can include an electrically insulating material. In some embodiments, the duct 140 can include (e.g., be made of) a conductive material, and its inner surface can be coated or painted with an electrically insulating material such as plastic or ceramic material. In some embodiments, the duct 140 may be installed at a predetermined angle from the proximal end to the distal end to allow the water droplets condensed on the surface of the duct 140 to flow and be collected at either the proximal end or the distal end.

[0040] When the duct 140 includes a conductive material, specific portions close to the source electrode 110 and the sink electrode 125 can include an electrically insulating material to prevent discharge between the electrode and the duct 140. Further, the duct 140 can also include one or more rectifying devices.

[0041] The air flow can be pushed (e.g., driven) from the source electrode 110 side through the duct 140 towards the sink electrode 125 side. To blow and guide the air flow through the duct 140, the system 100 can include a blower 150. The blower 150 can be implemented as an electric fan, an educter pump, etc. The system 100 can further include an aerosol monitoring device (not shown), e.g., an electrometer-based particle counter, a condensation particle counter (CPC), a scanning mobility particle sizer (SMPS), etc. The system 100 can also monitor the current flowing between the source electrode 110 and the sink electrode 125.

[0042] Figures 5A and 5B show process flowcharts of a method for condensing an aerosol according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to Figure 5A, the method can include a step S110 of applying an electric field, a step S120 of condensing the aerosol, and a step S130 of collecting the condensed droplets. The step S110 of applying an electric field can be performed by the source electrode 110, and the source electrode can be electrically connected to a power supply 130 that can supply a voltage to the source electrode 110. The step S120 of condensing the aerosol may be performed by the sink electrode 125, and the sink electrode may be electrically grounded or connected to a power supply 130 that provides a charge opposite to the charge applied to the source electrode. The source electrode 110 and the sink electrode 125 may be connected to a common power supply 130 or to separate power supplies. The step S130 of collecting the condensed droplets can be performed by the condenser 120 and the reservoir 123.

[0043] Referring to Figure 5B, the method can include a step S205 of blowing air by the blower 150 in addition to a step S210 of applying an electric field, a step S220 of condensing the aerosol, and a step S230 of collecting the condensed droplets. In some embodiments, the steps S110 and S210 of applying an electric field may be performed using a direct current (DC) power supply that generates a rated voltage of 20V to 10kV.

[0044] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a system for condensing water in a cooling tower according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The cooling tower to which the system 300 can be applied can include a cooling tower of a steam turbine exhaust device. Referring to FIG. 2, the system 300 can include a source electrode 310 and a condenser 320 disposed in a duct 340.

[0045] The source electrode 310 can be electrically connected to a power source 330 that can supply a voltage to the source electrode 310. Accordingly, the source electrode 310 can generate an electric field in the duct 340. The source electrode 310 can include a source mesh.

[0046] Water vapor can be attracted to the condenser 320 and collected in the condenser 320. The condenser 320 can be implemented substantially the same as the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 4. For example, the condenser 320 can include a sink electrode 325. The sink electrode 325 may be electrically grounded and / or connected to a power source 330 that provides a charge opposite to the charge applied to the source electrode 310. The source electrode 310 and the sink electrode 325 may be connected to a common power source 330 or to separate power sources. The sink electrode 325 may further include a condensation mesh.

[0047] The condensation mesh can cause water vapor to adhere to its surface and condense on the surface of the condensation mesh. During operation, the condensed water vapor can aggregate with other condensed water vapor on the surface of the condensation mesh to form water droplets. These water droplets can further aggregate with each other until they grow large and heavy. When they are large and heavy enough, the water droplets can precipitate due to gravity. A reservoir may be disposed under the sink electrode 325 to collect the precipitating water droplets.

[0048] As shown in FIG. 2, the duct 340 guides and conducts water vapor from the source electrode 310 side toward the sink electrode 325 side. Generally, a steam turbine cooling tower already includes an exhaust stream that is forced or naturally drafted. Thus, the system 300 can collect and utilize the remaining enthalpy of the exhaust stream, for example, to generate electricity. An example of extracting power from a steam turbine exhaust is to include a wind turbine 350 downstream of the condenser 320. The power collected from the exhaust stream may be directly supplied to the power source 330 for the operation of the system 300, or may be stored in a battery (not shown) for later use. By collecting the waste enthalpy in the exhaust of the cooling tower to generate electricity on-site and using the electricity locally, the overall efficiency of the system 300 can be improved. In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the wind turbine 350 may be disposed downstream of the condenser 320, but the present disclosure is not limited to such a configuration. The wind turbine 350 may also be disposed upstream of the condenser 320.

[0049] FIG. 9A shows an exemplary embodiment in which a wind turbine is disposed upstream of a condenser. Referring to FIGS. 9A and 9B, the exhaust stream from the cooling tower 910 can be guided by the duct 920 toward the condenser 930. The duct 920 can include a converging-diverging portion 925. The wind turbine 940 can be disposed in the converging-diverging portion 925 inside the duct 920. The remaining enthalpy of the exhaust stream can operate the wind turbine 940 to generate electricity, and the generated electricity can be used to operate the condenser 930. The converging-diverging portion can accelerate the exhaust stream to facilitate more effective collection of the kinetic energy in the exhaust stream by the wind turbine 940. Further, by extracting energy from the exhaust stream, the temperature of the exhaust stream can be reduced, thereby making it easier to condense the water vapor in the exhaust stream inside the condenser 930.

[0050] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 9C, the duct 920 can include a converging portion 925' without a diverging portion. For example, the diameter of the cooling tower can be about 9.144 m (about 30 feet), and the duct can gradually decrease in diameter to about 1.524 m (about 5 feet) in front of the wind turbine and the condenser. This configuration can accelerate the exhaust flow, enabling the wind turbine 940 to generate a greater power output and / or enabling the overall size of the condenser system to be smaller. Since the theoretical maximum power output from a wind turbine is generally proportional to the area of the blade disk and the cube of the wind speed, the converging portion 925' or the converging-diverging portion 925 can increase the power output of the wind turbine 940 by increasing the wind speed.

[0051] In some embodiments, the duct 920 can include a diverging-converging portion 925", as shown in FIG. 9D. In this configuration, the exhaust flow can be decelerated in the diverging-converging portion 925", and a wind turbine 940 with a larger diameter can be installed within the duct. The wind turbine 940 having a larger diameter can be rotated at a slower speed, thereby reducing noise, friction loss, system wear, etc. In some embodiments, multiple wind turbines can be arranged within the duct.

[0052] This system can also be applied to combustion exhaust devices. Combustion exhaust devices can include, for example, combustion-based power plants such as coal-fired power plants and natural gas power plants, and internal combustion engines such as diesel engines and gasoline engines. In a typical combustion exhaust device, non-volatile particles (e.g., solid-phase soot particles) and condensable gases (e.g., water vapor) exist as combustion products. In order to remove both non-volatile aerosols and volatile aerosols with high efficiency, this system can be arranged upstream of an electrostatic precipitator (ESP) so that water can be collected before the exhaust gas stream enters the ESP. By removing water and other condensable substances from the combustion exhaust prior to the ESP, the ESP can be protected from corrosion by water or other acidic liquids. In an embodiment of the combustion exhaust device, the system can also be arranged upstream of a filter such as, for example, a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter or a cyclone-type particle remover. Furthermore, in order to reuse the waste heat from the combustion exhaust, the system can be implemented using a heat exchanger arranged upstream of the system.

[0053] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a system for humidity control. FIG. 6 shows a system for humidity control according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 6, the system 500 can include a source electrode 510 and a humidity controller 520 disposed within a duct 540. The source electrode 510 can be electrically connected to a power supply 530 capable of applying a voltage to the source electrode 510. The source electrode 510 can generate an electric field within the duct 540. The source electrode 510 can further include a source mesh.

[0054] Water vapor can be attracted to the humidity controller 520 by the electric field. The humidity controller 520 may include a sink electrode 525, and the sink electrode 525 may be electrically grounded and / or connected to a power supply 530 that provides a charge opposite to the charge applied to the source electrode 510. The source electrode 510 and the sink electrode 525 may be connected to a common power supply 530 or to separate power supplies. The sink electrode 525 can include a humidifying mesh.

[0055] The humidification mesh can be wetted with water. During operation, water vapor can be attracted to the humidification mesh of the sink electrode 525. On the surface of the humidification mesh, the liquid water supplied to the humidification mesh can be transferred to the attracted vapor and can leave the surface of the humidification mesh. Through this process, the relative humidity of the air flow passing through the system 500 can be increased. The system 500 can include a water reservoir 550 for supplying liquid water to the humidity controller 520. In some embodiments, the liquid water can be supplied from the water reservoir 550 to the humidity controller 520 via gravity. To supply the liquid water by gravity, the water reservoir 550 can be disposed at a position higher than the humidity controller 520. In some embodiments, the liquid water can be supplied from the water reservoir 550 to the humidity controller 520 by a pump 560.

[0056] FIG. 7 shows a system for humidity control according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 7, the system 700 can include a source electrode 710 and a humidity controller 720 disposed within a duct 740. The system 700 for humidity control can be implemented in various environments where a constant humidity is required. The source electrode 710 can be electrically connected to a power supply 730 capable of applying a voltage to the source electrode 710. Accordingly, the source electrode 710 can generate an electric field within the duct 740. The source electrode 710 can further include a source mesh.

[0057] Water vapor can be attracted to the humidity controller 720 by the electric field. The humidity controller 720 can further include a sink electrode 725. The sink electrode 725 may be electrically grounded and / or connected to a power supply 730 that provides a charge opposite to the charge applied to the source electrode 710. The source electrode 710 and the sink electrode 725 may be connected to a common power supply 730 or to separate power supplies. The sink electrode 725 can further include a humidity control mesh.

[0058] During operation, water vapor can be attracted to the humidity control mesh of the sink electrode 725. On the surface of the humidity control mesh, the liquid water present on the humidity control mesh is transferred to the attracted vapor and can leave the surface of the humidity control mesh. Alternatively, the attracted water vapor may adhere to the surface of the humidity control mesh. If more water leaves the surface of the humidity control mesh than adheres to it, the relative humidity of the air flow after passing through the system 700 can be increased. Conversely, if more water adheres to the surface of the humidity control mesh than leaves it, the relative humidity of the air flow can decrease. Through this process, the relative humidity of the air flow can be controlled to a specific level.

[0059] The system 700 can be operated to maintain the relative humidity of the air flow passing through the system 700 at a preset target humidity. The preset target humidity can be adjusted by adjusting the applied voltage. The system 700 can include a water reservoir 750 for storing condensed water from the humidity control mesh and / or for supplying liquid water to the humidity controller 720. The liquid water can be supplied from the water reservoir 750 to the humidity controller 720 by a pump 760. To more accurately control the humidity, the system 700 may further include a feedback control system including a humidity sensor, a temperature sensor, and a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller that generates a control signal and outputs it to the voltage of the power supply 730.

[0060] Figures 8A and 8B compare the arrangements of source and sink electrodes for generating an electric field according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. In Figures 8A and 8B, the duct may be a diverging duct for obstructing (e.g., decelerating) the air flow. The diverging duct may increase the pressure and promote water condensation. Figure 8A is an example of a sink electrode configured convexly in the downstream direction of the air flow, and Figure 8B is an example of a sink electrode configured concavely in the downstream direction of the air flow. It can be seen that when the sink electrode is configured to be convex in the downstream direction of the air flow, a more smoothly varying electric field can be generated. Further, the applied voltage is one order of magnitude greater for Figure 8A (convex configuration) than for Figure 8B (concave configuration). Therefore, when the sink electrode is configured to be convex in the downstream direction of the air flow, water vapor can be more effectively directed towards the sink electrode. However, the above configuration is only an example, and the electrodes can be configured such that an electric field of a specific configuration can be formed based on the operating requirements.

[0061] The subject matter described herein provides many technical advantages. For example, using the present subject matter, the ambient air may not need to be ionized, thereby limiting or preventing the generation of gases such as ozone (O3), nitrogen monoxide (NO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and nitric acid (HNO3). To address these toxic, corrosive, and environmentally dangerous compounds, further processing or treatment of the collected liquid can be minimized or omitted. Further, the present subject matter can utilize a lower voltage compared to some conventional systems, so the present subject matter can be safer, does not waste large amounts of energy, and does not interfere with adjacent electronic devices. Further, unlike some conventional approaches, the present subject matter does not pose an explosion risk when the system is surrounded by debris (e.g., dust particles) and / or floating matter having a high surface area.

[0062] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a system and method for monitoring and controlling a cooling tower system. A cooling tower is a heat exchange system that dissipates heat by cooling a water stream (hot stream) to a cooler stream (cooling stream). Industrial cooling towers are typically used in power plants, oil refineries, petrochemical plants, natural gas processing plants, food processing plants, semiconductor plants, and cement manufacturing plants. A cooling tower monitoring system (CTMS) according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure can measure and analyze various parameters of a cooling tower and provide detailed monitoring of the performance of the cooling tower based on a comparison of the measured parameters with the specification parameters of the cooling tower. The CTMS of the present disclosure can monitor and control the operation of the cooling tower to improve overall cooling efficiency, extend the life of the system by controlling the acidity of the cooling water, and reduce the release of contaminants from the cooling tower, providing a single-package solution for doing so. The CTMS of the present disclosure may be installed when a new cooling tower is constructed or may be retrofitted to an existing cooling tower with minimal changes to the existing cooling tower.

[0063] In a wet cooling tower (or open-circuit cooling tower), if the ambient air is relatively dry, the warm water can be cooled to a temperature lower than the ambient air dry-bulb temperature. As the ambient air is drawn through the water stream, a small portion of the water evaporates, and the energy required to evaporate that portion of the water is obtained from the remaining body of water, causing its temperature to drop. Evaporation results in a saturated air state and reduces the temperature of the water being processed by the cooling tower to a value close to the wet-bulb temperature, which is lower than the ambient dry-bulb temperature, and the difference is determined by the initial humidity of the ambient air.

[0064] Figure 10 shows a schematic diagram of a CTMS according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to Figure 10, warm water stream 1020 can be supplied to cooling tower 1010. The warm water can be sprayed by spray head 1021. Fan 1011 provides an upward airflow of fresh air for cooling the water. The water cooled within cooling tower 1010 can be returned through cooling water stream 1030. Figure 11 lists various elements of a CTMS according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. There may be hardware elements and software elements, and the hardware elements can include sensors, processing units, and communication components.

[0065] The sensors and controller elements of the CTMS will be described below. A CTMS according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure can include a set of sensors for monitoring the soundness of the cooling tower. The set of sensors can include a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, a water level sensor, a tachometer, a voltage sensor, a current sensor, a pressure sensor, an anemometer, a water flow meter, and the like. The CTMS can further include a processor. A wired and / or wireless communication system can also be included in the CTMS.

[0066] The temperature sensor can include a resistance temperature detector (RTD), such as a Pt-100, or a thermocouple. A cold junction compensation thermocouple reader can be used to read temperature data from the temperature sensor. For example, the K-MAX6675 can provide temperature data from the signal of a type-K thermocouple. The temperature sensor may be combined with or packaged with a humidity sensor such as an SHT-20. An ultrasonic sensor such as an HC-SR04 can be used as a water level sensor. A tachometer can be used to measure the rotational speed (rpm) of the fan of the cooling tower system. Various types of tachometers, including contact and non-contact types, can be used. When retrofitting a CTMS to an existing cooling tower, a non-contact tachometer can be more convenient than a contact tachometer. Thus, an infrared-based tachometer can be used. To measure the power consumption of the cooling tower system, a voltmeter and / or an ammeter can be included in the set of sensors of the CTMS. A pressure sensor such as a BMP-180 can be used as a pressure sensor to measure the pressure within the cooling tower system.

[0067] A processor or a microcontroller can be included in the CTMS to collect data from the sensors, process the sensor data, and generate control signals to operate the CTMS. The CTMS can include a display device to display the sensor data and / or control parameters and provide a user interface. Further, the CTMS can wirelessly communicate with some or all of the sensors via an Internet of Things (IoT) platform. The sensor data and / or control parameters can be displayed, calculated, and input via a software interface. The software interface can be implemented as a native software package or using commercially available control software such as Matlab or Labview. The software interface can determine the control parameters based on algorithms to optimize the performance of the cooling tower. Parameter uncertainty analysis can be used when determining the control parameters from the sensor measurement data.

[0068] During operation, as shown in FIG. 12, the CTMS can measure the first temperature of the cooling flow 1110 and the second temperature of the hot flow 1120, and can calculate the temperature difference between the first temperature and the second temperature. The first temperature sensor 1111 can measure the first temperature, and the second temperature sensor 1121 can measure the second temperature. Subsequently, the CTMS may adjust the first flow rate of the cooling flow 1110 and / or the second flow rate of the hot flow 1120 so that the temperature difference between the cooling flow 1110 and the hot flow 1120 corresponds to the target temperature difference between the first temperature and the second temperature. To adjust the flow rates of the cooling flow 1110 and the hot flow 1120, the first valve 1112 and the second valve 1122 can be used respectively. The first valve 1112 and the second valve 1122 can be configured as ball valves. In the case of automated operation and computer control, the ball valve can be equipped with a solenoid actuator and be operated by a controller.

[0069] To adjust the first temperature of the cooling flow, the CTMS can add a makeup flow 1130 to the cooling flow 1110. The mixing ratio of the makeup flow 1130 and the cooling flow 1110 can be determined based on the temperature difference between the first temperature and the second temperature. As used herein, the makeup flow 1130 refers to a water supply for replenishing the water that evaporates and leaves the cooling tower, and the makeup flow 1130 may be supplied from any fresh water source. A third temperature sensor 1131 can provide temperature data of the makeup flow 1130, and a third valve 1132 can adjust the flow rate of the makeup flow 1130. To control the CTMS more accurately, a fourth temperature sensor 1136 can be included downstream of the heat exchanger 1140. In FIG. 12, both the second temperature sensor 1121 and the fourth temperature sensor 1136 are shown to be disposed downstream of the heat exchanger 1140. However, the positions of the temperature sensors are not limited thereto, and one or both of the second temperature sensor 1121 and the fourth temperature sensor 1136 may be disposed upstream of the heat exchanger 1140. Similarly, the second valve 1122 may be disposed upstream of the heat exchanger 1140. In some embodiments, the heat exchanger 1140 can be omitted.

[0070] Furthermore, to adjust the cooling flow temperature, the rotational speed of the fan 1150 of the cooling tower can be monitored and adjusted. To measure the rotational speed of the fan 1150, a tachometer 1190, such as an infrared-based tachometer, can be used. Changes in the fan speed can adjust the flow rate of the cooling air, thereby adjusting the first temperature of the cooling flow 1110. In addition, the relative humidity of the incoming air can be measured by a humidity sensor 1180.

[0071] The cooling water flow of the cooling tower can become alkaline due to the accumulation of minerals such as calcium carbonate. In some embodiments, the acidity / alkalinity (pH) of the cooling water can be monitored and controlled using a pH meter 1160. The acidity (or alkalinity) of the cooling water is an important factor that affects the overall performance, lifespan, and / or environmental impact of the cooling tower system. Thus, the CTMS can measure the acidity of the cooling flow 1110 and adjust the acidity by controlling the mixing ratio of the makeup flow 1130 and the cooling flow 1110. In addition to pH measurement, the water hardness can also be measured and controlled by the CTMS. In some embodiments, the CTMS may also include a water level sensor 1170.

[0072] In some embodiments, a wind turbine such as those described above can be added downstream of the fan 1150. The wind turbine can extract the enthalpy of a portion of the exhaust flow leaving the cooling tower and convert this into electricity. The captured electricity can be recovered to the CTMS system, thereby increasing the overall power efficiency of the system.

[0073] In the foregoing description and claims, phrases such as "at least one of the following" or "one or more of the following" may be followed by a conjunctive list of elements or features. The term "and / or" may also appear in a list of two or more elements or features. Such phrases are intended to mean any of the listed elements or features individually, or any of the listed elements or features in combination with any of the other listed elements or features, unless implicitly or explicitly disclaimed by the context in which they are used. For example, the phrases "at least one of A and B", "one or more of A and B", and "A and / or B" are each intended to mean "A alone, B alone, or A and B in combination". A similar interpretation is intended for lists containing three or more items. For example, the phrases "at least one of A, B, and C", "one or more of A, B, and C", and "A, B, and / or C" are each intended to mean "A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B in combination, A and C in combination, B and C in combination, or A, B, and C in combination". Further, the use of the term "based on" in the foregoing and the claims is intended to mean "at least partially based on" so as to allow features or elements not recited.

[0074] The subject matter described in this specification can be embodied in a system, apparatus, method, and / or article, depending on the desired configuration. The embodiments described in the foregoing description do not represent all embodiments that are consistent with the subject matter described in this specification. Rather, they are merely some examples that are consistent with aspects related to the described subject matter. Although several variations have been described in detail above, other modifications or additions are possible. In particular, additional features and / or variations can be provided in addition to those described in this specification. For example, the above-described embodiments can be directed to various combinations and sub-combinations of the disclosed features, and / or combinations and sub-combinations of some additional features disclosed above. Further, the logical flows depicted in the accompanying drawings and / or described in this specification do not necessarily require the particular order or sequence shown to achieve the desired results. Other embodiments can be within the scope of the following claims.

[0075] 〔Embodiments〕 (1) A system comprising: a source electrode electrically connected to a power source that applies a voltage to the source electrode; a condenser including a sink electrode for collecting aerosol contained in an air flow; a duct configured to guide the aerosol to the condenser; and the source electrode and the sink electrode are configured to generate an electric field within the duct. (2) The system according to Embodiment 1, wherein the source electrode includes a source mesh, and the source mesh includes a first network of wires. (3) The system according to Embodiment 2, wherein the source mesh includes a wire diameter of 0.5 mm to 5 mm. (4) The system according to Embodiment 2, wherein the characteristic dimension of the opening of the source mesh is 1 mm to 15 mm. (5) The source mesh is the system according to Embodiment 2, including stainless steel, nickel, a conductive polymer, or a conductive silicone.

[0076] (6) The source mesh is the system according to Embodiment 2, including a plurality of layers each including a network of wires. (7) The sink electrode includes a condensation mesh, and the condensation mesh includes a second network of wires, for the system according to Embodiment 1. (8) The sink electrode is configured to condense the aerosol on the condensation mesh to form droplets that settle at least by gravity, for the system according to Embodiment 7. (9) The condenser has an inlet configured to receive an air flow having a first relative humidity, has an outlet configured to discharge an air flow having a second relative humidity lower than the first relative humidity, and has a reservoir configured to collect the droplets, for the system according to Embodiment 8. (10) The condensation mesh includes a wire diameter of 0.5 mm to 5 mm, for the system according to Embodiment 7.

[0077] (11) The characteristic dimension of the openings of the condensation mesh is 1 mm to 15 mm, for the system according to Embodiment 7. (12) The condensation mesh includes stainless steel, nickel, a conductive polymer, or a conductive silicone, for the system according to Embodiment 7. (13) The condensation mesh includes a plurality of layers each including a network of wires, for the system according to Embodiment 7. (14) The power supply includes a direct current (DC) power supply, for the system according to Embodiment 1. (15) The power supply includes a direct current (DC) power supply that generates a voltage of 20 V to 10 kV, for the system according to Embodiment 1.

[0078] (16) The system according to Embodiment 1, wherein the sink electrode is electrically grounded. (17) The system according to Embodiment 1, wherein the sink electrode is connected to an opposing power source that applies an opposing charge to the sink electrode. (18) The system according to Embodiment 1, further comprising a blower configured to drive the airflow containing the aerosol along the duct through the source electrode to the condenser. (19) The system according to Embodiment 1, wherein the cross-sectional area of the duct increases along the flow direction of the airflow. (20) The system according to Embodiment 19, wherein the sink electrode includes a convex shape protruding in the flow direction of the airflow.

[0079] (21) A method comprising: applying an electric field between a source electrode and a sink electrode, wherein the source electrode is electrically connected to a power source that applies a voltage to the source electrode; condensing the aerosol contained in the airflow into droplets at the sink electrode; collecting the condensed droplets. The method includes the above steps. (22) The method according to Embodiment 21, further comprising blowing the airflow along the duct with a blower. (23) The method according to Embodiment 21, wherein the application of the electric field is performed using a direct current (DC) power source that generates a voltage of 20 V to 10 kV. (24) The method according to Embodiment 21, wherein the sink electrode is electrically grounded. (25) The method according to Embodiment 21, wherein the sink electrode is connected to an opposing power source that applies an opposing charge to the sink electrode.

[0080] (26) A system comprising: a source electrode electrically connected to a power source that applies a voltage to the source electrode; a condenser including a sink electrode for collecting the aerosol contained in the airflow. comprising, a system in which the source electrode and the sink electrode generate an electric field. (27) The system according to embodiment 26, wherein the sink electrode includes a condensation mesh configured to condense the aerosol to form droplets that settle at least by gravity. (28) The condenser has an inlet configured to receive an air flow having a first relative humidity, an outlet configured to discharge an air flow having a second relative humidity lower than the first relative humidity, and a reservoir configured to collect the droplets, The system according to embodiment 27. (29) The system according to embodiment 26, further comprising an electrostatic precipitator (ESP) disposed downstream of the condenser to capture solid particles. (30) The system according to embodiment 26, further comprising a wind turbine disposed upstream or downstream of the condenser.

[0081] (31) The system according to embodiment 30, wherein the wind turbine is configured to generate electricity. (32) The system according to embodiment 31, wherein the electricity generated by the wind turbine is supplied to the power source. (33) The system according to embodiment 26, further comprising a duct configured to direct the aerosol to the condenser. (34) The system according to embodiment 33, wherein the duct includes a converging portion, a diverging portion, or both. (35) A method comprising: applying an electric field between a source electrode and a sink electrode, wherein the source electrode is electrically connected to a power source that applies a voltage to the source electrode; controlling the humidity of an air flow by the sink electrode; The method.

[0082] (36) Controlling the humidity of the air flow includes supplying water to the sink electrode in response to determining that the humidity of the air flow is less than a preset target humidity, according to the method of embodiment 35. (37) The water is supplied from a water storage device, according to the method of embodiment 36. (38) Controlling the humidity of the air flow includes condensing an aerosol contained in the air flow into water at the sink electrode and collecting the condensed water in response to determining that the humidity of the air flow is higher than a preset target humidity, according to the method of embodiment 35. (39) The condensed water is collected in a water storage device, according to the method of embodiment 38. (40) Controlling the humidity of the air flow includes adjusting the voltage applied to the source electrode, according to the method of embodiment 35.

[0083] (41) Controlling the humidity of the air flow includes measuring the humidity of the air flow using a humidity sensor, generating a control signal based on the measured humidity of the air flow using a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller, and outputting the control signal to adjust the voltage applied to the source electrode, according to the method of embodiment 40. (42) A system comprising a memory configured to store program instructions, a processor configured to execute the program instructions, which when executed receive a humidity value of an air flow from a humidity sensor, generate a control signal based on the received humidity value of the air flow, output a voltage corresponding to the control signal to a source electrode of a humidity control system, and configure the processor to perform operations including the above, a system. (43) A method comprising measuring a first temperature of a cooling flow discharged from a cooling tower, measuring a second temperature of the high-temperature flow entering the cooling tower; calculating a temperature difference between the first temperature and the second temperature; adjusting a first flow rate of the cooling flow such that the temperature difference corresponds to a predetermined target temperature difference between the first temperature and the second temperature; A method, comprising: (44) further comprising adding a makeup flow to the cooling flow, wherein a mixing ratio of the makeup flow and the cooling flow is determined based on the temperature difference between the first temperature and the second temperature, the method according to embodiment 43. (45) The method according to embodiment 43, further comprising adjusting a rotational speed of a fan to adjust a flow rate of cooling air.

[0084] (46) measuring an acidity of the cooling flow; adjusting the acidity by adjusting the mixing ratio of the makeup flow; The method according to embodiment 44, further comprising: (47) A system, comprising: a first temperature sensor for measuring a first temperature of a cooling flow discharged from a cooling tower; a second temperature sensor for measuring a second temperature of a high-temperature flow entering the cooling tower; a first valve for adjusting a first flow rate of the cooling flow; a second valve for adjusting a second flow rate of the high-temperature flow; a memory configured to store program instructions; a processor configured to execute the program instructions; comprising: wherein when the program instructions are executed, collecting data from the first temperature sensor and the second temperature sensor; configuring the processor to adjust the first valve or the second valve such that a temperature difference between the first temperature and the second temperature corresponds to a predetermined target temperature difference. A system, comprising: (48) The system according to embodiment 47, wherein the processor is further configured to adjust a fan speed. (49) The system according to embodiment 47, wherein the processor is further configured to adjust a mixing ratio of the supply flow and the cooling flow such that the temperature difference between the first temperature and the second temperature corresponds to the target temperature difference. (50) The system according to embodiment 47, further comprising an acidity sensor for measuring an acidity of the cooling flow.

[0085] (51) The system according to embodiment 50, wherein the processor is further configured to adjust a mixing ratio of the supply flow and the cooling flow such that the acidity of the cooling flow corresponds to a predetermined target acidity. (52) Apparatus, systems, articles, and techniques described and / or illustrated herein.

Claims

1. A water vapor condensation system, comprising: A source electrode including a source mesh, electrically connected to a DC power supply that applies a voltage of 20 V to 1 kV to the source electrode; A condenser including a sink electrode including a condensation mesh for collecting aerosol contained in an air flow; comprising; The source electrode and the sink electrode generate an electric field smaller than 3 kV / mm; Further comprising a wind turbine disposed upstream or downstream of the condenser, the wind turbine being configured to generate electric power, and the electric power generated by the wind turbine being supplied to the DC power supply.

2. The source mesh includes a first network of wires, a) the source mesh includes a wire diameter of 0.5 mm to 5 mm, or b) the dimensions of the openings of the source mesh are 1 mm to 15 mm, or c) the source mesh includes stainless steel, nickel, a conductive polymer, or a conductive silicone, or d) the source mesh includes a plurality of layers each including a network of wires. The water vapor condensation system according to claim 1.

3. The condensation mesh includes a second network of wires, a) the sink electrode is configured to condense the aerosol on the condensation mesh to form droplets that settle at least by gravity, the condenser including an inlet configured to receive an air flow having a first relative humidity, an outlet configured to discharge an air flow having a second relative humidity lower than the first relative humidity, and a reservoir configured to collect the droplets, or b) the condensation mesh includes a wire diameter of 0.5 mm to 5 mm, or c) the dimensions of the openings of the condensation mesh are 1 mm to 15 mm, or d) The condensation mesh includes stainless steel, nickel, a conductive polymer, or a conductive silicone, or e) The water vapor condensation system according to claim 1, wherein the condensation mesh includes a plurality of layers each including a network of wires. **Claim 4** a) The sink electrode is electrically grounded, or b) The water vapor condensation system according to claim 1, wherein the sink electrode is connected to an opposing power source that applies an opposing charge to the sink electrode. **Claim 5** The water vapor condensation system according to claim 1, further comprising a duct configured to direct the aerosol to the condenser. **Claim 6** The water vapor condensation system according to claim 5, further comprising a blower configured to drive the air stream containing the aerosol along the duct through the source electrode to the condenser. **Claim 7** The water vapor condensation system according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the cross-sectional area of the duct increases along the flow direction of the air stream, and the sink electrode includes a convex shape protruding in the flow direction of the air stream. **Claim 8** A water vapor condensation method comprising: applying an electric field less than 3 kV / mm between a source electrode including a source mesh and a sink electrode including a condensation mesh, wherein the source electrode is electrically connected to a DC power source that applies a voltage of 20 V to 1 kV to the source electrode; controlling the humidity of the air stream by condensing the air stream containing the aerosol into droplets by the sink electrode; generating electric power by a wind turbine disposed upstream or downstream of the sink electrode, and directly supplying the electric power generated by the wind turbine to the DC power source; and. **Claim 9** a) The method of condensing water vapor further includes blowing the air flow along the duct with a blower, or, b) The sink electrode is electrically grounded, or, c) The sink electrode is connected to an opposite power source that provides an opposite charge to the sink electrode. The method of condensing water vapor according to claim 8.

10. a) The sink electrode is configured to condense the aerosol to form droplets that precipitate at least by gravity. The condenser has an inlet configured to receive an air flow having a first relative humidity, an outlet configured to discharge an air flow having a second relative humidity lower than the first relative humidity, and a reservoir configured to collect the droplets, or, b) The water vapor condensation system further includes an electrostatic precipitator (ESP) disposed downstream of the condenser to capture solid particles, or, c) The water vapor condensation system further includes a duct configured to direct the aerosol to the condenser. The duct includes a converging portion, a diverging portion, or both. The water vapor condensation system according to claim 1.

11. a) Controlling the humidity of the air flow includes supplying water to the sink electrode in response to determining that the humidity of the air flow is less than a preset target humidity. The water is supplied from a water storage tank, or, b) Controlling the humidity of the air flow includes condensing the aerosol contained in the air flow into water at the sink electrode and collecting the condensed water in response to determining that the humidity of the air flow is higher than the preset target humidity. The condensed water is collected in the water storage tank, or, (c) Controlling the humidity of the air stream includes adjusting the voltage applied to the source electrode, and controlling the humidity of the air stream includes measuring the humidity of the air stream using a humidity sensor, generating a control signal based on the measured humidity of the air stream using a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller, and outputting the control signal to adjust the voltage applied to the source electrode. The method for condensing water vapor according to claim 8.

12. The water vapor condensation system further includes a duct configured to direct the aerosol to the condenser, and the duct includes a converging portion, a diverging portion, or both. The wind turbine is disposed in the converging portion or the diverging portion. The water vapor condensation system according to claim 1.

13. The wind turbine is configured to direct the aerosol to the condenser and is disposed in the converging portion or the diverging portion of a duct that includes a converging portion, a diverging portion, or both. The method for condensing water vapor according to claim 8.

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