Apparatus for producing aqueous solution and method for producing aqueous solution

Abstract

To provide a production device of an aqueous solution which can obtain a needed substance (for example, chlorine dioxide) and give improved usability of the obtained substance.SOLUTION: A production device 1 of an aqueous solution includes: a first utensil (a first tube) 3 which is composed of a material permeated by a predetermined substance (for example, chlorine dioxide) 15 and which contains the predetermined substance 15 and a substance (a by-product) 17 other than the predetermined substance; and a second utensil (a second tube) 5 which contains water 7 and the first utensil 3.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus for producing an aqueous solution and a method for producing an aqueous solution. [Background technology]

[0002] BACKGROUND ART Conventionally, a gas generator that generates chlorine dioxide by chemically reacting sodium chlorite with citric acid as an oxidizing agent has been known (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-256141 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in the above chemical reaction, in addition to chlorine dioxide, which is necessary for sterilization, etc., unwanted reactants such as sodium citrate are also produced. To prevent the unexpected effects of the production of unwanted substances, there is a demand for obtaining only the necessary chlorine dioxide by chemically reacting sodium chlorite with citric acid. Furthermore, since the chlorine dioxide produced is a gas, it quickly disperses in the air, making it difficult to use for sterilization, etc.

[0005] The above-mentioned demands also arise when chlorine dioxide is generated using citric acid or a substance other than citric acid, or when a substance other than chlorine dioxide is used.

[0006] The present invention aims to provide an apparatus for producing an aqueous solution and a method for producing an aqueous solution that can obtain a required substance (a substance containing no impurities) and can improve the usability of the obtained substance. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The invention described in claim 1 comprises a substance dissolving step in which, with a first container made of a material permeable to a predetermined substance and containing the predetermined substance and substances other than the predetermined substance inside, and water contained in a second container, the predetermined substance that has permeated the first container and emerged outside the first container is dissolved in the water, the first container being made of a first tube, the second container being made of a second tube, the first tube being contained within the second tube, the predetermined substance and substances other than the predetermined substance flow within the first tube, the water flowing within the second tube and outside the first tube, the predetermined substance being chlorine dioxide, the longitudinal direction of the first tube and the longitudinal direction of the second tube being aligned with each other, the first tube extending within the second tube, a cylindrical space being formed in a portion of the second tube excluding the first tube, and the water flowing through this cylindrical space. The first tube and the second tube are flexible. A method for producing an aqueous solution.

[0008] The invention described in claim 2 is The first container contains chlorine dioxide obtained by a chemical reaction between chlorous acid in the form of an aqueous solution and citric acid in the form of an aqueous solution, and by-products other than the chlorine dioxide. A method for producing the aqueous solution according to claim 1.

[0009] In the invention described in claim 3, the direction in which the predetermined substance and substances other than the predetermined substance flow in the first tube is opposite to the direction in which the water flows in the second tube outside the first tube. Claim 1 or A method for producing the aqueous solution according to claim 2.

[0010] The invention described in claim 4 comprises a first container made of a material that allows a predetermined substance to pass therethrough, the first container containing the predetermined substance and a substance other than the predetermined substance, and a second container containing water and the first container, the first container being made of a first tube, the second container being made of a second tube, the first tube being contained within the second tube, the predetermined substance and a substance other than the predetermined substance flowing within the first tube, the water flowing within the second tube on the outside of the first tube, the predetermined substance being chlorine dioxide, the longitudinal direction of the first tube and the longitudinal direction of the second tube being aligned with each other, the first tube extending within the second tube, a cylindrical space being formed in a portion of the second tube excluding the first tube, and water flowing through this cylindrical space. The first tube and the second tube are flexible. This is an apparatus for producing aqueous solutions. [Effects of the Invention]

[0014] According to the present invention, it is possible to obtain a required substance (a substance that does not contain impurities), and it is also possible to improve the usability of the obtained substance. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0015] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing an outline of an apparatus for producing an aqueous solution (aqueous chlorine dioxide solution) according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 1 is a diagram showing an outline of a main part of an apparatus for producing an aqueous solution (aqueous chlorine dioxide solution) according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] 3A and 3B are diagrams specifically showing the locations where the first tube and the second tube are used in FIG. 2, where (b) is an enlarged view of part IIIB in (a), and (c) is an enlarged view of part IIIC in (a). [Figure 4] FIG. 1(a) is a diagram showing an outline of an apparatus for producing an aqueous solution (aqueous chlorine dioxide solution) according to a second embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 1(b) is a perspective view of a vessel (container) and the like. [Figure 5]FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an outline of an apparatus for producing an aqueous solution (aqueous chlorine dioxide solution) according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing modified examples of a flow path forming member in an apparatus for producing an aqueous solution (aqueous chlorine dioxide solution) according to a third embodiment of the present invention, where (b) is a diagram showing a VIB-VIB cross section in (a), and (c) is a diagram showing a VIC-VIC cross section in (a). [Figure 7] 6(b) is a diagram showing a modified example of a flow path forming member in an apparatus for producing an aqueous solution (aqueous chlorine dioxide solution) according to a third embodiment of the present invention, and is a cross-sectional view taken along line VIIB-VIIB in FIG. [Figure 8] 8(b) is a diagram showing a modified example of a flow path forming member in an apparatus for producing an aqueous solution (aqueous chlorine dioxide solution) according to a third embodiment of the present invention, and is a cross-sectional view taken along line VIIIB-VIIIB in FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a modified example of a flow path forming member in the apparatus for producing an aqueous solution (aqueous chlorine dioxide solution) according to the third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] 10(b) is a diagram showing a modified example of a flow path forming member in an apparatus for producing an aqueous solution (aqueous chlorine dioxide solution) according to a third embodiment of the present invention, and is a diagram showing a cross section taken along the line XB-XB in FIG. [Figure 11] 10(b) is a diagram showing a modified example of a flow path forming member in an apparatus for producing an aqueous solution (aqueous chlorine dioxide solution) according to a third embodiment of the present invention, and is a cross-sectional view taken along line XIB-XIB in FIG. [Figure 12] 10(b) is a diagram showing a modified example of a flow path forming member and a vessel in an apparatus for producing an aqueous solution (aqueous chlorine dioxide solution) according to a third embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. [Figure 13] 10(b) is a diagram showing a modified example of a flow path forming member in an apparatus for producing an aqueous solution (aqueous chlorine dioxide solution) according to a third embodiment of the present invention, and is a cross-sectional view taken along the line XIIIB-XIIIB in FIG. [Figure 14]FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a modified example of a flow path forming member and a vessel in an apparatus for producing an aqueous solution (aqueous chlorine dioxide solution) according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a modified example of a flow path forming member and a vessel in an apparatus for producing an aqueous solution (aqueous chlorine dioxide solution) according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a modified example of a flow path forming member and a vessel in an apparatus for producing an aqueous solution (aqueous chlorine dioxide solution) according to a third embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] [First embodiment] The aqueous solution manufacturing apparatus 1 (for example, an apparatus for manufacturing a chlorine dioxide aqueous solution 2) according to the first embodiment of the present invention is configured to include a first container 3 and a second container 5, as shown in Figures 2 and 3.

[0017] The first container 3 is made of a material that is permeable to a predetermined substance (for example, chlorine dioxide 15), and contains chlorine dioxide 15 and a substance other than chlorine dioxide 17 inside. The second container 5 contains water 7 and the first container 3 inside. The chlorine dioxide 15 that permeates the first container 3 and comes out of the first container 3 dissolves (is dissolved) in the water 7 in the second container 5. Note that the water 7 can be, for example, pure water such as "purified water" as defined in the Japanese Pharmacopoeia.

[0018] 1 to 3, the aqueous solution manufacturing apparatus 1 is provided with a substance combining section 9. In the substance combining section 9, a first pre-reaction substance (for example, chlorous acid) 11 and a second pre-reaction substance (for example, citric acid) 13 are combined.

[0019] Chlorous acid 11 and citric acid 13 combined in substance combining section 9 undergo a chemical reaction to generate chlorine dioxide 15. Chlorous acid 11 and citric acid 13 exist in the form of an aqueous solution, for example.

[0020] The chemical reaction between chlorous acid 11 and citric acid 13 can be expressed as follows: 15NaClO2 + 4C(OH)(CH2COOH)2COOH → 12ClO2 + 4C6H5Na3O7 + 3NaCl + 2H2O. The C6H5Na3O7, NaCl, and H2O produced in the above reaction are by-products (unwanted substances) that make up the substance 17 other than chlorine dioxide.

[0021] The first container 3 is made of a chemical-resistant synthetic resin such as polypropylene, polyethylene, or silicone, which is permeable only to gases. This allows only the chlorine dioxide 15 produced by the chemical reaction to permeate through the first container 3 and dissolve in the water in the second container 5. On the other hand, the second container 5 is made of a material that is impermeable to water 7, chlorine dioxide 15, and by-products 17, such as glass or a synthetic resin with a specified coating.

[0022] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the first container 3 is made up of a first tube. The second container 5 is made up of a second tube. Furthermore, the second tube 5 is made up of a synthetic resin or the like that is appropriately coated as described above. This prevents the substances described in the above reaction formula from passing through the second tube 5. The first container 3 and the second tube 5 are, for example, flexible.

[0023] The first tube 3 is placed inside the second tube 5. Chlorine dioxide 15 and substances other than chlorine dioxide 17 are configured to flow inside the first tube 3. Water is also configured to flow through a space 19 inside the second tube 5 and outside the first tube 3.

[0024] The first tube 3 is formed in an elongated tubular shape such as a cylindrical shape, and the second tube 5 is also formed in an elongated tubular shape such as a cylindrical shape. The outer diameter of the first tube 3 is smaller than the inner diameter of the second tube 5.

[0025] The longitudinal direction of the first tube 3 and the longitudinal direction of the second tube 5 are aligned with each other, and the first tube 3 extends within the second tube 5. A cylindrical space 19 is formed in the area of ​​the second tube 5 excluding the first tube 3, and water 7 flows through this cylindrical space 19.

[0026] The direction in which chlorine dioxide 15 and substances other than chlorine dioxide 17 flow coincides with the longitudinal direction of first tube 3, and the direction in which water 7 flows coincides with the longitudinal direction of second tube 5.

[0027] The direction in which chlorine dioxide 15 and substances other than chlorine dioxide 17 flow in the first tube 3 is opposite to the direction in which water 7 flows in the second tube 5 but outside the first tube (see arrows in Figure 2).

[0028] The apparatus 1 for producing an aqueous chlorine dioxide solution will now be described in more detail.

[0029] As shown in FIG. 1, the chlorine dioxide aqueous solution manufacturing apparatus 1 is configured to include a stand 21, a first pre-reaction substance tank (e.g., a tank for chlorous acid) 23, a second pre-reaction substance tank (e.g., a tank for citric acid) 25, a water tank 27, a tank 29 for an aqueous solution of chlorine dioxide 15, and a by-product tank 31.

[0030] As shown in FIG. 1, the chlorine dioxide aqueous solution manufacturing apparatus 1 is provided with a first pre-reaction substance pump (e.g., a tube pump for chlorous acid) 33, a second pre-reaction substance pump (e.g., a tube pump for citric acid) 35, and a water pump 37.

[0031] Furthermore, the chlorine dioxide aqueous solution manufacturing apparatus 1 is provided with a predetermined substance permeation section (for example, a chlorine dioxide permeation section) 39, a temperature adjustment section 41, and a control section (a control section including a CPU and a memory, not shown) 43.

[0032] The tanks 23, 25, 27, 29, and 31 and the pumps 33, 35, and 37 are mounted on a stand 21. Each of the pumps 33, 35, and 37 is, for example, a variable discharge tube pump.

[0033] The chlorous acid tank 23 stores an aqueous solution of chlorous acid 11, the citric acid tank 25 stores an aqueous solution of citric acid 13, and the water tank 27 stores water 7. The chlorine dioxide 15 aqueous solution tank 29 stores an aqueous solution 2 of chlorine dioxide 15, and the by-product tank 31 stores by-product 17.

[0034] An intake tube 45 extends from the intake port of the chlorous acid tube pump 33. The tip of the intake tube 45 is inside the chlorous acid tank 23. A discharge tube 47 extends from the discharge port of the chlorous acid tube pump 33.

[0035] An intake tube 49 extends from the intake port of the citric acid tube pump 35. The tip of the intake tube 49 is inserted into the citric acid tank 25. A discharge tube 51 extends from the discharge port of the citric acid tube pump 35.

[0036] The tip of the discharge tube 47 and the tip of the discharge tube 51 are connected to each other, and this connection forms a material combining section 9. The first tube 3 extends from the material combining section 9 toward the by-product tank 31.

[0037] The substance combining section 9 causes the aqueous solution of chlorous acid 11 and the aqueous solution of citric acid 13 to mix together, causing a chemical reaction to occur, producing chlorine dioxide 15 and by-products 17. The chlorine dioxide 15 and by-products 17 flow through the first tube 3 toward the by-product tank 31.

[0038] An intake tube 53 extends from the intake port of the water pump 37. The tip of the intake tube 53 is inside the water tank 27. A discharge tube 55 extends from the discharge port of the water pump 37.

[0039] The tip of the discharge tube 55 is connected to the second tube 5, and the second tube 5 extends from this connection point toward the tank 29 for the aqueous solution of chlorine dioxide 15. In addition, a discharge tube 30 extends from the tip of the second tube 5.

[0040] The tip of the discharge tube 30 is inserted into the tank 29 for the aqueous solution of chlorine dioxide 15. This allows the water 7 and the aqueous solution 2 of chlorine dioxide 15 to flow from the water tank 27 toward the tank 29 for the aqueous solution of chlorine dioxide 15.

[0041] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, a portion of the first tube 3 in the longitudinal direction (for example, most of the middle portion) extends long inside the second tube 5. The portion of the first tube 3 that extends long inside the second tube 5 forms a chlorine dioxide permeable portion 39. In the chlorine dioxide permeable portion 39, chlorine dioxide 15 comes out of the first tube 3 and dissolves in the water 7 in the second tube 5.

[0042] The temperature adjustment unit 41 shown in FIG. 1 adjusts the temperatures of the first tube 3 and the second tube 5 in a portion of the chlorine dioxide permeation section 39 in the longitudinal direction (e.g., most of the middle portion). That is, the temperature adjustment unit 41 adjusts the temperatures of the aqueous solution of chlorous acid 11, the aqueous solution of citric acid 13, the chlorine dioxide 15, the by-product 17, and the water 7. The temperatures of the first tube 3 and the second tube 5 are appropriately adjusted within a range of, for example, −9°C to 60°C. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 1, the first tube 3 and the second tube 5 forming the chlorine dioxide permeation section 39 extend in a coiled (spiral) shape around the temperature adjustment unit 41. Note that the chlorine dioxide permeation section 39 may extend in a meandering or other curved shape in the temperature adjustment unit 41.

[0043] Temperature adjustment unit 41 will be further described with reference to Figure 1. Temperature adjustment unit 41 is configured to include container 42, a predetermined liquid 44 such as antifreeze liquid contained in container 42, and temperature regulator 46 that adjusts the temperature of the predetermined liquid. Coil-shaped chlorine dioxide permeation unit 39 is contained in predetermined liquid 44.

[0044] One longitudinal end of the second tube 5 (the end on the water pump 37 side) is connected to a first connection part 59 of the tee 57, as shown in Figure 3(b). A second connection part 61 of the tee 57 is connected to the discharge tube 55.

[0045] The other longitudinal end of the second tube 5 (the end on the tank 29 side for the aqueous solution of chlorine dioxide 15) is connected to a first connection 65 of a tee 63, as shown in Figure 3(c). A second connection 67 of the tee 63 is connected to the discharge tube 30.

[0046] As shown in Figure 3(b), a bushing 71 is installed at the third connection portion 69 of the tee 57. As shown in Figure 3(c), a bushing 75 is installed at the third connection portion 73 of the tee 63.

[0047] The first tube 3 passes through each of the bushings 71, 75 and into the second tube 5. Reference numeral 77 in Figures 3(b) and 3(c) denotes a deformation prevention member for preventing deformation of the first tube 3. The deformation prevention member 77 is formed in a cylindrical shape and has high rigidity.

[0048] In the state shown in Figure 3(b), the bushing 71 and the first tube 3 are sandwiched with a predetermined pressure between the third connection part 69 of the tee 57 and the deformation prevention member 77. In the state shown in Figure 3(c), the bushing 75 and the first tube 3 are also sandwiched with a predetermined pressure between the third connection part 73 of the tee 63 and the deformation prevention member 77.

[0049] 1 to 3, when each pump 33, 35, 37 is driven, chlorine dioxide 15, by-products 17, water 7, etc. flow without leaking out of first tube 3 or second tube 5. Note that, like second tube 5, the portion of first tube 3 that protrudes outside second tube 5 is preferably coated to prevent permeation of water 7, chlorine dioxide 15, and by-products 17.

[0050] Next, the operation of the apparatus 1 for producing an aqueous chlorine dioxide solution will be described.

[0051] In the initial state, the chlorous acid tank 23 contains an aqueous solution of chlorous acid 11, the citric acid tank 25 contains an aqueous solution of citric acid 13, the water tank 27 contains water 7, and the aqueous solution tank 29 and the by-product tank 31 are empty. Also, the pumps 33, 35, and 37 are stopped.

[0052] In the above initial state, the temperature is first adjusted by the temperature adjusting unit 41 under the control of the control unit 43. Then, the pumps 33, 35, and 37 are operated. The pumps 33 and 35 are operated, for example, intermittently, because only a small amount of chlorine dioxide 15 is required to be generated per given time. In contrast, the water pump 37 is operated, for example, continuously.

[0053] As a result, the aqueous solution 2 of chlorine dioxide 15 is stored in the tank 29 for the aqueous solution of chlorine dioxide 15, and the by-products 17 are stored in the tank 31 for the by-products.

[0054] In the apparatus 1 for producing an aqueous chlorine dioxide solution, the first tube 3 and water 7 are contained in the second tube 5, and chlorine dioxide 15 passes through the first tube 3 and comes out of the first tube 3. Furthermore, the chlorine dioxide 15 that comes out of the first tube 3 dissolves in the water 7 in the second tube 5. This makes it possible to obtain the required chlorine dioxide (chlorine dioxide that does not contain impurities such as by-products), and also makes the obtained chlorine dioxide easier to use.

[0055] For example, dissolving chlorine dioxide 15 in water 7 slows down the dispersion speed of chlorine dioxide 15, improving the usability of chlorine dioxide 15. For example, if water 7 containing only chlorine dioxide 15 dissolved therein is sprayed in mist form onto a table to be sterilized, chlorine dioxide 15 is gradually released from water 7, allowing the sterilizing action to be sustained.

[0056] In addition, in the chlorine dioxide aqueous solution manufacturing apparatus 1, chlorine dioxide 15 is generated by a chemical reaction when chlorous acid 11 and citric acid 13 are combined. This allows unstable chlorine dioxide 15 to be obtained timely as needed.

[0057] In addition, in the apparatus 1 for producing an aqueous chlorine dioxide solution, the first tube 3 is inserted into the second tube 5, and chlorine dioxide 15 and other substances 17 flow through the first tube 3, while water 7 flows through the second tube 5 outside the first tube 3. This allows the aqueous solution 2 of chlorine dioxide 15 to be efficiently obtained in a continuous manner.

[0058] In the apparatus 1 for producing an aqueous chlorine dioxide solution, the direction in which the chlorine dioxide 15 and other substances 17 flow in the first tube 3 is opposite to the direction in which the water 7 flows in the second tube 5, so that the aqueous solution 2 of chlorine dioxide 15 can be obtained more efficiently.

[0059] That is, the concentration of chlorine dioxide 15 is high upstream in the direction in which chlorine dioxide 15 and other substances 17 flow, and the concentration of chlorine dioxide 15 is low downstream in the direction in which chlorine dioxide 15 and other substances 17 flow. Also, the concentration of chlorine dioxide 15 is low upstream in the direction in which water 7 flows, and the concentration of chlorine dioxide 15 is high downstream in the direction in which water 7 flows.

[0060] Furthermore, on one side in the longitudinal direction between the first tube 3 and the second tube 5, the concentration of chlorine dioxide 15 in the first tube 3 and the second tube 5 is high. On the other side in the longitudinal direction between the first tube 3 and the second tube 5, the concentration of chlorine dioxide 15 in the first tube 3 and the second tube 5 is low.

[0061] This minimizes the unevenness in the amount of chlorine dioxide 15 that permeates the first tube 3 in the longitudinal direction of the first tube 3 and the second tube 5, making it possible to obtain the aqueous solution 2 of chlorine dioxide 15 more efficiently.

[0062] In the above description, an example has been given in which an aqueous solution 2 of chlorine dioxide 15 is obtained, but the aqueous solution manufacturing apparatus 1 can also be used as is or with appropriate modifications to obtain an aqueous solution of a substance other than chlorine dioxide. For example, an aqueous solution of a fragrance can be obtained from a mixture of a fragrance and a substance other than the fragrance.

[0063] The above may also be understood as a method invention.

[0064] That is, a first container is made of a material that allows a predetermined substance to pass therethrough, and the first container contains the predetermined substance and a substance other than the predetermined substance, and water is contained in a second container. In this state, the method may be understood as a method for producing an aqueous solution, which includes a substance dissolving step of dissolving the predetermined substance that has passed through the first container and emerged outside the first container in the water.

[0065] The substance generation process may also be a process of generating the specified substance through a chemical reaction when at least two types of substances (for example, a first pre-reaction substance such as chlorous acid and a second pre-reaction substance such as citric acid) are combined.

[0066] Second Embodiment 4, the apparatus 1a for producing an aqueous chlorine dioxide solution according to the second embodiment of the present invention differs from the apparatus 1 for producing an aqueous chlorine dioxide solution according to the first embodiment in that the inside of a vessel (container) 79 is divided into two chambers 83 and 85 by a partition member 81. The apparatus 1a for producing an aqueous chlorine dioxide solution can also provide the same effects as the apparatus 1 for producing an aqueous chlorine dioxide solution.

[0067] More specifically, the apparatus 1a for producing an aqueous chlorine dioxide solution includes a container 79 and a partition member 81. The partition member 81 is made of a material that is permeable to a predetermined substance (e.g., chlorine dioxide 15), similar to the first tube 3. The partition member 81 also divides the interior of the container 79 into a first chamber 83 and a second chamber 85. The container 79 is made of a material that is impermeable to water 7, chlorine dioxide 15, and by-products 17, such as glass or a synthetic resin with a predetermined coating.

[0068] The chlorine dioxide aqueous solution manufacturing apparatus 1a is configured so that a predetermined substance (e.g., chlorine dioxide) 15 and a substance other than the predetermined substance (e.g., a substance other than chlorine dioxide) 17 are placed in the first chamber 83, and water (pure water) 7 is placed in the second chamber 85.

[0069] Chlorine dioxide 15 that has passed through partition member 81 and emerged in second chamber 85 is dissolved in water 7 in second chamber 85.

[0070] In addition, in the apparatus 1a for producing an aqueous chlorine dioxide solution, a pressure adjusting unit 87 that makes the pressure in the first chamber 83 higher than the pressure in the second chamber 85 may be provided in order to promote permeation of chlorine dioxide 15 through the partition member 81.

[0071] The aqueous chlorine dioxide solution producing apparatus 1a will be described in more detail.

[0072] The container 79 is formed, for example, in the shape of a box (cylindrical shape with a bottom), and a lid 89 is placed on the opening at the top end of the container 79. In addition, the container 79 is provided with a first outlet 91 and a second outlet 93.

[0073] The first outlet 91 can be opened and closed freely, and when the first outlet 91 is open, the contents of the first chamber 83 can be taken out of the container 79. The second outlet 99 can also be opened and closed freely, and when the second outlet 93 is open, the contents of the second chamber 85 can be taken out of the container 79.

[0074] The apparatus 1a for producing an aqueous chlorine dioxide solution is also provided with tubes 95, 97, and 99. The tubes 95 and 97 extend outside the container 79, and their ends are connected to each other. One end of the tube 99 is connected to the tubes 95 and 97 at the point where the tubes 95 and 97 are connected to each other. The tube 99 penetrates the lid 89 and enters the first chamber 83 of the container 79.

[0075] The partition member 81 is formed in the shape of a thin flat plate, and divides the interior of the container 79 into a first chamber 83 having a semi-cylindrical shape and a second chamber 85 having a semi-cylindrical shape.

[0076] The aqueous chlorous acid solution flowing through tube 95 and the aqueous citric acid solution flowing through tube 97 are mixed together in tube 99, similar to the case of the apparatus 1 for producing an aqueous chlorine dioxide solution, and a chemical reaction occurs. As a result, chlorine dioxide 15 and by-product 17 are produced. The produced chlorine dioxide 15 and by-product 17 are accumulated in first chamber 83.

[0077] Then, in a state where the water 7 is contained in the second chamber 85, the chlorine dioxide 15 permeates the partition member 81 and dissolves in the water 7 in the second chamber 85.

[0078] The pressure adjusting section 87 is configured to increase the pressure in the first chamber 83 by, for example, sending air into the first chamber 83. The second chamber 85 is, for example, open to the atmosphere.

[0079] Here, the operation of the apparatus 1a for producing an aqueous chlorine dioxide solution will be described.

[0080] In the initial state, the first outlet 91 and the second outlet 93 are closed, the first chamber 83 is empty, and the second chamber 85 contains water 7.

[0081] In the above initial state, chlorine dioxide 15 and by-products 17 are stored in first chamber 83 using tubes 95, 97, and 99, and then the supply of the aqueous chlorous acid solution and the aqueous citric acid solution through tubes 95 and 97 is stopped.

[0082] Next, if pressure adjusting unit 87 is provided, pressure adjusting unit 87 increases the pressure in first chamber 83. As a result, chlorine dioxide 15 permeates partition member 81 and dissolves in water 7 in second chamber 85.

[0083] Subsequently, the second outlet 93 is opened to take out the water 7 in the second chamber 85 with the chlorine dioxide 15 dissolved therein from the container 79, and the first outlet 91 is opened to take out the by-products 17 in the first chamber 83 from the container 79.

[0084] Thereafter, the first outlet 91 and the second outlet 93 are closed, and water 7 is poured into the second chamber 85, thereby returning to the initial state.

[0085] In the apparatus 1a for producing an aqueous chlorine dioxide solution, chlorine dioxide 15 and other substances 17 are placed in the first chamber 83, water 7 is placed in the second chamber 85, and chlorine dioxide 15 that has passed through the partition member 81 and emerged in the second chamber 85 is dissolved in the water 7. This makes it possible to obtain the required chlorine dioxide 15 (chlorine dioxide that does not contain impurities such as by-products) and also makes the obtained chlorine dioxide 15 easier to use.

[0086] In addition, in the apparatus 1a for producing an aqueous chlorine dioxide solution, by making the pressure in the first chamber 83 higher than the pressure in the second chamber 83, the chlorine dioxide 15 can efficiently permeate through the partition member 81.

[0087] In the above description, an example has been given in which an aqueous solution 2 of chlorine dioxide 15 is obtained, but the aqueous solution producing apparatus 1a can also be used as is or with appropriate modifications when obtaining an aqueous solution of a substance other than chlorine dioxide. For example, an aqueous solution of a fragrance can be obtained from a mixture of a fragrance and a substance other than the fragrance.

[0088] The above may also be understood as a method invention.

[0089] That is, a vessel is used whose interior is divided into a first chamber and a second chamber by a partition member made of a material through which a predetermined substance (e.g., chlorine dioxide) permeates. The predetermined substance and a substance other than the predetermined substance are placed in the first chamber, and water is placed in the second chamber. This method may also be understood as a method for producing an aqueous solution (aqueous chlorine dioxide solution) that includes a substance dissolving step (chlorine dioxide dissolving step) in which the predetermined substance that has permeated the partition member and emerged in the second chamber is dissolved in the water.

[0090] The method may also be understood as a method for producing an aqueous solution (aqueous chlorine dioxide solution) in which the pressure in the first chamber is higher than the pressure in the second chamber in order to promote permeation of the predetermined substance through the partition member.

[0091] Third Embodiment 4, the apparatus 1b for producing an aqueous chlorine dioxide solution according to the third embodiment of the present invention is different from the apparatus 1 for producing an aqueous chlorine dioxide solution according to the first embodiment in that a flow path forming material 103 passes through a vessel (container) 101. The apparatus 1b for producing an aqueous chlorine dioxide solution can also obtain the same effects as the apparatus 1 for producing an aqueous chlorine dioxide solution.

[0092] That is, the chlorine dioxide aqueous solution manufacturing apparatus 1b is configured to include a flow path forming material (corresponding to the first vessel 3) 103 and a container (corresponding to the second vessel 5) 101. The flow path forming material 103 is made of a material (similar to the material of the first vessel 3) that is permeable to a predetermined substance (for example, gaseous chlorine dioxide 15), and is formed, for example, in a cylindrical shape. The chlorine dioxide 15 and by-products 17 flow through the inside of the flow path forming material 103. The container 101 is made of a material that is impermeable to the water 7, chlorine dioxide 15, and by-products 17, such as glass or a synthetic resin with a predetermined coating.

[0093] The container 101 contains water (pure water) 7 and a flow path forming material 103. Chlorine dioxide 15 that has passed through the flow path forming material 103 and exits the flow path forming material 103 is dissolved in the water 7 in the container 101.

[0094] The aqueous chlorine dioxide solution producing apparatus 1b will be described in more detail.

[0095] Container 101 is formed, for example, in the shape of a box (cylindrical shape with a bottom), and a lid 105 is placed on the opening at the top end of container 101. Container 101 is also provided with outlet 107. Outlet 107 can be opened and closed freely, and when outlet 107 is open, the contents of container 101 can be taken out of container 101.

[0096] Furthermore, the apparatus 1b for producing an aqueous chlorine dioxide solution is provided with tubes 109 and 111. The tubes 109 and 111 extend outside the container 101, and their ends are connected to each other. One end of a flow path forming member (tube) 103 is connected to the tubes 109 and 111 at the point where the tubes 109 and 111 are connected to each other. The flow path forming member 103 passes through the lid 105 and inside the container 101. The other end of the flow path forming member 103 is located outside the container 101.

[0097] Then, the aqueous solution of chlorous acid flowing through the tube 109 and the aqueous solution of citric acid flowing through the tube 111 are mixed at the flow path forming member 103, in the same manner as in the case of the apparatus 1 for producing an aqueous chlorine dioxide solution. This causes a chemical reaction, and chlorine dioxide 15 and by-product 17 are produced.

[0098] When water 7 is contained in container 101 , chlorine dioxide 15 permeates flow path forming member 103 and dissolves in water 7 in container 101 .

[0099] Here, the operation of the apparatus 1a for producing an aqueous chlorine dioxide solution will be described.

[0100] In the initial state, the outlet 107 is closed and the container 101 contains water 7. The supply of the aqueous solution of chlorous acid and the aqueous solution of citric acid through the tubes 109 and 111 is stopped.

[0101] In the above initial state, an aqueous solution of chlorous acid and an aqueous solution of citric acid are passed through tubes 109 and 111, and chlorine dioxide 15 and by-products 17 are passed through flow path forming material 103. As a result, chlorine dioxide 15 permeates flow path forming material 103 and dissolves in water 7 in container 103.

[0102] Next, the outlet 107 is opened and the water 7 in which the chlorine dioxide 15 is dissolved is taken out from the container 103 .

[0103] Thereafter, the supply of the aqueous solution of chlorous acid and the aqueous solution of citric acid through the tubes 109 and 111 is stopped, the outlet 107 is closed, and water 7 is supplied into the container 103, thereby returning to the initial state.

[0104] Here, a modified example of the apparatus 1b for producing an aqueous chlorine dioxide solution will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0105] In the apparatus 1b for producing an aqueous chlorine dioxide solution according to the third embodiment shown in Fig. 5, the flow path forming member 103 is formed in a thin cylindrical shape and extends linearly within the container 101. In contrast, in the apparatus 1b for producing an aqueous chlorine dioxide solution shown in Fig. 9, the flow path forming member 103 in a long, thin cylindrical shape extends spirally within the container 101 in order to more efficiently dissolve the chlorine dioxide 15 in the water 7. Note that the flow path forming member 103 may extend in another curved shape, such as serpentine, within the container 101 in order to more efficiently dissolve the chlorine dioxide 15 in the water 7.

[0106] In the apparatus 1b for producing an aqueous chlorine dioxide solution shown in FIGS. 6 to 8 and 11 to 13, the flow path forming member 103 extends in the container 101 in the following manner in order to dissolve the chlorine dioxide 15 in the water 7 more efficiently.

[0107] That is, a cross section of flow path forming member 107 is taken along a plane perpendicular to the direction in which chlorine dioxide 15 and by-products 17 flow within flow path forming member 103. A line connecting chlorine dioxide 15 and by-products 17 (a line indicating the boundary between flow path forming member 103 and chlorine dioxide 15 and by-products 17) at a portion of flow path forming member 103 inside container 101 (at least a part of the inner portion) is defined as a first line. A line connecting chlorine dioxide 15 and by-products 17 at a portion of flow path forming member 103 outside container 101 (an outer portion) is defined as a second line. The length of the first line is then sufficiently longer than the length of the second line.

[0108] Furthermore, the thickness of flow path forming member 103 is, for example, constant. A cross section of flow path forming member 107 is taken along a plane perpendicular to the direction in which chlorine dioxide 15 and by-products 17 flow within flow path forming member 103. A line in contact with water 7 at a portion of flow path forming member 103 inside container 101 (at least a part of the inner portion) is defined as a third line. A line in contact with water 7 at a portion of flow path forming member 103 outside container 101 (outer portion) is defined as a fourth line. The length of the third line is then sufficiently longer than the length of the fourth line.

[0109] With this configuration, chlorine dioxide 15 can easily permeate flow path forming material 103 in container 101, and aqueous solution 2 of chlorine dioxide 15 can be obtained efficiently in container 101.

[0110] The flow path forming member 103 shown in Fig. 6 will be described in detail. The outer shape of the portion of the flow path forming member 103 shown in Fig. 6 that is inside the container 101 is formed into a large rectangular parallelepiped. This rectangular parallelepiped has a plurality of small rectangular parallelepiped through holes 113 arranged in a matrix. The thickness of the wall of the portion of the flow path forming member 103 shown in Fig. 6 that is inside the container 101 is, for example, uniform.

[0111] The flow path forming member 103 shown in Fig. 7 will be described in detail. The portion of the flow path forming member 103 shown in Fig. 7 that is located inside the container 101 is configured to include a cylindrical central portion 115, a thick-walled cylindrical portion 117 that is concentric with the cylindrical central portion 115 and has a large diameter, and radial connecting portions 119. The radial connecting portions 119 connect the cylindrical central portion 115 and the thick-walled cylindrical portion 117. The thickness of the wall of the portion of the flow path forming member 103 shown in Fig. 7 that is located inside the container 101 is, for example, constant.

[0112] The flow path forming member 103 shown in Fig. 8 will be described in detail. The portion of the flow path forming member 103 shown in Fig. 8 that is inside the container 101 is configured to include a thick-walled cylindrical portion 121 with a large diameter. The thickness of the wall portion of the flow path forming member 103 shown in Fig. 8 that is inside the container 101 is, for example, constant.

[0113] The flow path forming member 103 shown in Fig. 10 will be described in detail. The portion of the flow path forming member 103 shown in Fig. 10 that is inside the container 101 has a configuration in which a plurality of truncated cone-shaped portions 131 with a uniform thickness are connected together.

[0114] The flow path forming member 103 shown in Fig. 11 will be described in detail. The portion of the flow path forming member 103 shown in Fig. 11 that is located inside the container 101 is configured to include a cylindrical central portion 125 and radial portions 127 that protrude radially from the central portion 125. The thickness of the wall of the portion of the flow path forming member 103 shown in Fig. 11 that is located inside the container 101 is, for example, constant.

[0115] The flow path forming member 103 shown in Fig. 12 will be described in detail. The portion of the flow path forming member 103 shown in Fig. 12 that is located inside the container 101 is configured to include a large rectangular portion 129 that is thin and has a roughly rectangular outer shape, a pair of cylindrical portions 131, and a connecting portion 133. The connecting portion 133 extends in a serpentine manner inside the rectangular portion 129 and connects the pair of cylindrical portions 131. This allows the relative positional relationship between the pair of cylindrical portions 131 to be maintained even if the rectangular portion 129 is thin and has almost no rigidity. The connecting portion 133 also has some elasticity.

[0116] The flow path forming member 103 shown in Fig. 13 will be described in detail. The portion of the flow path forming member 103 shown in Fig. 13 that is located inside the container 101 is configured to include a pair of thick-walled disk-shaped portions 135 and a plurality of cylindrical portions 137 that connect the pair of thick-walled disk-shaped portions 135. The thickness of the wall of the portion of the flow path forming member 103 shown in Fig. 13 that is located inside the container 101 is, for example, constant.

[0117] The configuration shown in Fig. 14(a) is the same as that shown in Fig. 5 and Fig. 9. The configuration shown in Fig. 14(b) is different from that shown in Fig. 14(a) in that a stirring unit 139 that stirs the water 7 inside the vessel 101 is provided. This allows the chlorine dioxide 15 coming out of the flow path forming material 103 to be efficiently dissolved in the water 7.

[0118] 15(a), the portion of the flow path forming material 103 that is inside the container 101 in the configuration shown in FIG. 14(a) is rotated or turned. This allows the chlorine dioxide 15 that has come out of the flow path forming material 103 to be efficiently dissolved in the water 7. In the configuration shown in FIG. 15(b), the container 101 in the configuration shown in FIG. 14(a) is rotated or turned. This allows the chlorine dioxide 15 that has come out of the flow path forming material 103 to be efficiently dissolved in the water 7.

[0119] 16(a), in the configuration shown in FIG. 14(a), at least one of the portion of the flow path forming material 103 that is inside the container 101 and the container 101 is reciprocated in the up and down direction. This allows the chlorine dioxide 15 coming out of the flow path forming material 103 to be efficiently dissolved in the water 7.

[0120] 16(b), in the configuration shown in FIG. 14(a), at least one of the portion of the flow path forming material 103 that is inside the container 101 and the container 101 is vibrated. This allows the chlorine dioxide 15 coming out of the flow path forming material 103 to be efficiently dissolved in the water 7.

[0121] The above may also be understood as a method invention.

[0122] That is, a (cylindrical) flow path forming material (first vessel) made of a material permeable to a predetermined substance (for example, gaseous chlorine dioxide 15), through which the predetermined substance and substances other than the predetermined substance flow, and water are contained in a vessel (second vessel). In this state, the method may be understood as a manufacturing method for an aqueous solution (aqueous chlorine dioxide solution) including a substance dissolving step (chlorine dioxide dissolving step) in which the predetermined substance that has permeated the flow path forming material and come out of the flow path forming material is dissolved in the water. [Explanation of symbols]

[0123] 1. 1a Aqueous solution manufacturing equipment 3. First vessel (first tube) 5 Second vessel (second tube) 7 water 15. Specified substances (chlorine dioxide) 17 Substances other than specified substances (by-products; unnecessary substances) 79, 101 Utensils (containers) 81 Partition member 83 Room 1 85 Second Room 103 Flow path forming material

Claims

1. a substance dissolving step in which, in a state in which a first container made of a material through which a predetermined substance is permeable and in which the predetermined substance and a substance other than the predetermined substance are contained inside, and water are contained in a second container, the predetermined substance that has permeated the first container and emerged outside the first container is dissolved in the water; the first object is a first tube; the second object is a second tube; the first tube is contained within the second tube; the predetermined substance and a substance other than the predetermined substance flow through the first tube, and the water flows through the second tube and outside the first tube; the predetermined substance is chlorine dioxide; a longitudinal direction of the first tube and a longitudinal direction of the second tube are aligned with each other, the first tube extends within the second tube, a cylindrical space is formed within the second tube excluding the first tube, and the water flows through this cylindrical space; The method for producing an aqueous solution, wherein the first tube and the second tube are flexible.

2. 2. The method for producing an aqueous solution according to claim 1, wherein the first container contains chlorine dioxide obtained by a chemical reaction between chlorous acid in the form of an aqueous solution and citric acid in the form of an aqueous solution, and by-products other than the chlorine dioxide.

3. 3. The method for producing an aqueous solution according to claim 1, wherein a direction in which the water flows in the second tube outside the first tube is opposite to a direction in which the predetermined substance and substances other than the predetermined substance flow in the first tube.

4. a first vessel made of a material that is permeable to a predetermined substance and that contains the predetermined substance and a substance other than the predetermined substance; a second vessel containing water and the first vessel; and the first object is a first tube; the second object is a second tube; the first tube is contained within the second tube; the predetermined substance and a substance other than the predetermined substance flow through the first tube, and the water flows through the second tube and outside the first tube; the predetermined substance is chlorine dioxide; a longitudinal direction of the first tube and a longitudinal direction of the second tube are aligned with each other, the first tube extends within the second tube, a cylindrical space is formed within the second tube excluding the first tube, and water flows through the cylindrical space; The apparatus for producing an aqueous solution, wherein the first tube and the second tube are flexible.

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