Systems, methods, and generators for generating nanobubbles or nanodroplets at ambient conditions

Abstract

1. A method and generator for generating nanobubbles or nanodroplets at ambient conditions, the method comprising: providing a volume for containing a liquid; dispersing a medium within the liquid, the medium being provided to the volume at ambient conditions; and generating an electric field using electrodes in the vicinity of the volume to promote generation of the nanobubbles or nanodroplets, the electrodes and the liquid not in direct electrical contact to prevent electrolysis from occurring within the volume.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for generating nanobubbles or nanodroplets. In particular, but not exclusively, the present disclosure relates to generating nanobubbles or nanodroplets at ambient conditions without the use of electrolysis. The present disclosure also relates to systems and methods for treating biogas and wastewater. In particular, but not exclusively, the present disclosure relates to the treatment of biogas and wastewater from anaerobic digestion via nanobubble and gas hydrate formation. The present disclosure also relates to the treatment of multi-component mixtures. [Background technology]

[0002] The value of nanobubbles to industry can be clearly seen in the vast variety of applications they have found. Their high metastability in liquids has seen nanobubbles find popular use in gas storage on the scale of several months. Furthermore, their high surface area-to-volume ratio means they are beneficial in surface cleaning applications, as they can adhere to insoluble soils on surfaces. Nanobubbles have also found widespread use in wastewater treatment by flotation, and even in biogas applications, including the control of methane emissions from agriculture.

[0003] These applications have motivated a considerable amount of research into the various physical properties of nanobubbles and the means of generating them. For example, the cavitation effect, in which a low-pressure cavity is formed when the pressure in a liquid is suddenly changed, has been used to generate nanobubbles.

[0004] These methods have proven costly in terms of the energy required and the physical equipment required. Additionally, some methods require additives in the process that contaminate the liquid, while also producing relatively low gas solubility.

[0005] U.S. Published Patent Application No. 2018 / 141837 relates to nanobubbles and hydroxyl radical generators (NBHRGs), as well as treatment systems using NBHRGs to decontaminate water without chemicals. Published PCT Patent Application No. WO2005 / 084786 relates to water containing oxygen nanobubbles and methods for generating them. U.S. Published Patent Application No. 2010 / 0147701 relates to methods and devices for applying an alternating electric field through a liquid to enhance disinfection properties. Published PCT Patent Application No. WO2017 / 156410 relates to methods and devices for generating nanobubbles, in which a gas is supplied to the device at a pressure such that the gas is forced through a porous sidewall and forms nanobubbles on the outer surface of a gas-permeable member. These technologies are based on the use of water electrolysis, a process that splits water into hydrogen and oxygen, and the generated gas forms nanobubbles. This process involves hydrodynamic cavitation, vaporization, bubble generation, and bubble implosion that occur in flowing liquids as a result of a local pressure decrease and subsequent increase. Methods involving electrolysis require direct liquid-electrical contact or discharge between water and an electrode, or the introduction of a separate ion source. Alternatively, methods that do not use electrolysis, such as hydrodynamic cavitation, are believed to be less efficient at generating sustainable nanobubbles and result in reduced solubility enhancement.

[0006] While various methods for preparing nanobubbles have been proposed, they typically involve electrolysis or the introduction of foreign substances (e.g., ions) into the water in which the nanobubbles are generated, potentially resulting in contamination. Published PCT Patent Application No. WO2014 / 148397 uses electrolysis to split water into hydrogen and oxygen, from which the resulting gas forms nanobubbles. Published PCT Patent Application No. WO2005 / 084786 uses ultrasonic irradiation and additional ions to stabilize the nanobubbles. U.S. Published Patent Application No. 2007 / 0189972 describes a method for forming nanobubbles by applying a physical stimulus to microbubbles contained in a liquid, causing the microbubbles to rapidly shrink and form nanobubbles. This method also includes the use of additional ions. Forming a relatively large amount of nanobubbles without microbubbles is easy to operate, energy-efficient, and results in higher gas solubility.

[0007] Published European Patent Application No. 2986975 relates to methods and systems for controlling the dynamics of nanobubbles and nanoparticles in conical nanopores.

[0008] Anaerobic digestion (AD) is the conversion of biodegradable feedstocks, such as animal waste, sewage, and food waste, into three primary products: biogas, digestate, and water. Biogas extraction is highly desirable due to its diverse applications in industry, particularly heat or electricity generation. However, because contaminants, including H2S, are highly corrosive and inhibit combustion, biogas must be significantly purified before it can be effectively utilized. Furthermore, disposing of waste products from anaerobic digestion without adequately extracting biogas, such as methane and carbon dioxide, is widely understood to have adverse environmental impacts, including contributing to greenhouse gas emissions on a global scale. Existing purification methods, such as pressure swing absorption, cryogenic separation, chemical scrubbing, and membrane technologies, typically incur significant capital and operating costs. Furthermore, existing purification methods are generally only cost-effective for large-scale biogas production; small-scale, localized solutions are not economically feasible.

[0009] The digestate, the precipitate remaining after biogas extraction, can be used as fertilizer, compost, etc. However, the wastewater remaining after biogas and digestate extraction usually contains pollutants or other undesirable contaminants that require treatment for water removal.

[0010] There is a need for methods, systems, and devices for generating nanobubbles or nanodroplets that address at least some of the shortcomings of the prior art. There is also a need for methods and systems for treating biogas and wastewater that address at least some of the shortcomings of the prior art. Additionally, there is a need for methods and systems for treating multi-component mixtures. Summary of the Invention

[0011] Accordingly, there is provided a method for generating nanobubbles or nanodroplets at ambient conditions, the method comprising: providing a volume for containing a liquid; Dispersing a medium within a liquid, the medium being provided to the volume at ambient conditions; generating an electric field using electrodes proximate the volume to promote the generation of nanobubbles or nanodroplets, the electrodes and the liquid not being in direct electrical contact to prevent electrolysis from occurring within the volume.

[0012] For example, ambient conditions include temperatures ranging from 0°C to 30°C.

[0013] For example, if the ambient conditions are 0 N / m 2 ~2×10 5 N / m 2 Includes pressures in the range of

[0014] Advantageously, the method may further comprise providing a magnetic field in the vicinity of the volume.

[0015] More advantageously, the magnetic field is less than 0.5 kg -2 A -1 ~2kg -2 A -1Includes magnetic flux densities in the range of

[0016] In one embodiment, the medium is a gaseous medium. Advantageously, the gaseous medium comprises a mixture of two or more gases. Preferably, at least one of the gases is concentrated.

[0017] In another embodiment, the medium is a liquid medium. Advantageously, the liquid medium is a mixture of two or more liquid components. Preferably, at least one of the liquid components is concentrated.

[0018] In one embodiment, the liquid is an aqueous liquid.

[0019] In a further aspect, the liquid comprises deionized water.

[0020] In an exemplary embodiment, the electric field is an electrostatic field.

[0021] In another aspect, cooling means are provided for cooling the contents of the volume. Advantageously, the cooling means circulates a coolant in the vicinity of the volume.

[0022] In one aspect, the method includes evacuating the volume.

[0023] In a further aspect, the method includes agitating the contents of the volume. Advantageously, the agitation is provided by a rocking motion.

[0024] In an exemplary arrangement, the method includes temperature sensing and / or pressure sensing.

[0025] In one example, the volume of the liquid is about 20 cm 3 Advantageously, a pressure of up to 100 bar is applied to the volume. Preferably, a DC voltage of about 30 V is applied to the electrodes.

[0026] In one aspect, an acoustic signal is applied to eject nanobubbles or nanodroplets from the liquid.

[0027] In another aspect, a magnetic signal is applied to eject nanobubbles or nanodroplets from a liquid.

[0028] In one aspect, the volume is cooled to a predetermined level to facilitate storage of nanobubbles or nanodroplets within the body of liquid. Advantageously, the body of liquid is frozen.

[0029] In an exemplary aspect, a method for generating nanobubbles or nanodroplets at ambient conditions is provided, the method comprising: providing a volume for containing a liquid; Dispersing a medium within a liquid, the medium being provided to the volume at ambient conditions; generating an electric field in the vicinity of the volume to promote generation of nanobubbles or nanodroplets, wherein electrolysis does not occur within the volume.

[0030] The present disclosure also relates to a generator for producing nanobubbles or nanodroplets at ambient conditions, the generator comprising: a volume for containing a liquid; a source for supplying a medium to the volume to be dispersed in the liquid, the source providing the medium to the volume at ambient conditions; and an electrode for generating an electric field in the vicinity of the volume to promote the generation of nanobubbles or nanodroplets, the electrode and the liquid not being in direct electrical contact to avoid electrolysis.

[0031] Advantageously, the electrodes may comprise foils operatively connected to a voltage supply, and the foils may be laminated such that there is no direct electrical contact between the foil and the liquid.

[0032] More advantageously, the foil is folded into a spirally wound configuration.

[0033] Advantageously, the generator may include a plurality of electrodes arranged in a cascade configuration, each electrode of the plurality of electrodes being disposed at an angle to the wall of the volume.

[0034] Advantageously, at least one magnet may be placed close to the generator.

[0035] More advantageously, the magnet weighs approximately 0.5 kg. -2 A -1 ~2kg -2 A -1 provides a magnetic flux density in the range of

[0036] In one aspect, the source includes a gas source for supplying a gas medium.

[0037] In another aspect, the source comprises a liquid source for supplying a liquid medium.

[0038] In a further aspect, the electrodes are configured to provide an electrostatic field.

[0039] In an exemplary arrangement, the generator further comprises cooling means for cooling the contents of the volume. Advantageously, the cooling means is configured to circulate a coolant in the vicinity of the volume. In one example, at least a portion of the generator defines a passageway for receiving the coolant therein.

[0040] In another aspect, vacuum means are provided for evacuating the volume.

[0041] In a further aspect, a stirring means is provided for stirring the contents of the volume.

[0042] Advantageously, the stirring means comprises a mechanical stirrer.

[0043] In one embodiment, the electrodes include a cathode and an anode.

[0044] In another aspect, the cathode and anode are prevented from direct electrical contact with the contents of the volume to prevent electrolysis from occurring within the volume.

[0045] In one embodiment, the cathode and anode are coated or covered with an electrically insulating coating or material.

[0046] In another embodiment, the cathode and anode are arranged in a parallel configuration to provide an electric field having a strength that is inversely proportional to the distance between the cathode and anode.

[0047] In a further aspect, the electrodes include a plurality of anodes and a plurality of cathodes.

[0048] In another aspect, the electrode comprises a mesh configuration. Advantageously, the electrode comprises a plurality of mesh elements.

[0049] In an exemplary arrangement, multiple anodes and multiple cathodes are arranged in a parallel configuration.

[0050] In one aspect, each mesh element includes an opening for receiving a portion of the delivery mechanism therein.

[0051] In another aspect, the delivery mechanism includes an elongate tubular member for extending through the openings in the mesh element. Advantageously, the tubular member is operably mounted on the base member.

[0052] In one aspect, the delivery mechanism includes a plurality of outlets for facilitating dispersion of the medium within the volume. Advantageously, the outlets are dimensioned to accommodate the medium therethrough but prevent the ingress of liquid from the volume.

[0053] In another aspect, the electrode is configured as a series of concentric elements.

[0054] In one aspect, the concentric elements can be configured such that each element comprises a contacting cathode and anode.

[0055] In a further embodiment, a concentrator is provided for concentrating the medium.

[0056] In one aspect, a storage volume is provided for storing nanobubbles or nanodroplets in a temperature-controlled environment.

[0057] In another embodiment, the nanobubbles or nanodroplets are frozen for ease of storage.

[0058] The present disclosure also relates to a system for generating nanobubbles or nanodroplets, the system comprising: A generator comprising: a volume for containing a liquid; a source for supplying a medium to the volume to be dispersed within the liquid; an electrode for generating an electric field in the vicinity of the volume to promote generation of nanobubbles or nanodroplets, the electrode and the liquid not being in direct electrical contact to avoid electrolysis; and a control circuit configured to control the generator.

[0059] According to one aspect, there is provided a method for treating wastewater, the method comprising: providing a vessel for receiving wastewater and a gas, the gas including one or more constituent gas components; directing the wastewater and a first gas component of the gas to a vessel; reducing the temperature of the contents of the vessel from a first temperature to a second temperature to promote the formation of a clathrate hydrate comprising the wastewater and the first gas component; increasing the temperature of the contents of the container to a second temperature to promote dissolution of the clathrate hydrate; and removing the purified water and / or the first gas component from the container.

[0060] In one embodiment, the method further comprises generating nanobubbles of the first gas component.

[0061] In another aspect, directing the first gas component into the container includes controllably releasing nanobubbles of the first gas component from the volume. Advantageously, the volume includes a nanobubble generator. Preferably, controllably releasing nanobubbles of the first gas component includes applying a signal to a liquid storing the nanobubbles. In an exemplary embodiment, the signal includes at least one of an acoustic signal or an electromagnetic signal.

[0062] In one embodiment, the method further comprises removing the residue from the container.

[0063] In another embodiment, the method further comprises removing a second gas component of the gas from the generator. In one example, the first gas component comprises carbon dioxide or carbon monoxide. In one example, the second gas component comprises methane.

[0064] According to another aspect, there is provided a system for treating wastewater, the system comprising: a vessel for receiving wastewater and gas, the gas comprising one or more constituent gas components; means for directing the wastewater and the first gas component of the gas into the vessel; A temperature control means, reducing the temperature of the contents of the vessel from a first temperature to a second temperature to promote the formation of a clathrate hydrate comprising the wastewater and the first gas component; and and temperature control means including means for increasing the temperature of the vessel to a second temperature to promote melting of the clathrate hydrate, and means for removing purified water and / or the first gas component from the vessel.

[0065] According to a further aspect, there is provided a system for processing a multi-component mixture, the system comprising: a container for receiving the first medium and the second medium; a source for supplying a first medium to the container and a source for supplying a second medium to the container; and temperature control means for controlling the temperature of the contents of the vessel, wherein the temperature control means is configured to control the temperature of the contents of the vessel to promote formation of a hydrate comprising the first medium and the second medium, and the temperature control means is configured to control the temperature to facilitate melting of the hydrate to provide the first treatment medium and the second treatment medium.

[0066] In one embodiment, the first medium comprises a gas, the gas comprising one or more constituent gas components. Advantageously, the hydrate formed in the vessel is a clathrate hydrate.

[0067] In another embodiment, the system further comprises a nanobubble generator for generating nanobubbles of a first gas component of the gas, and further comprises at least one conduit for connecting the volumes of the nanobubble generator and the container therebetween.

[0068] In one aspect, a method for processing a multi-component mixture is provided, the method comprising: Providing a first medium in a container; Providing a second medium in the container; controlling the temperature of the contents of the vessel to promote the formation of a hydrate comprising the first medium and the second medium; providing a first treatment medium and a second treatment medium and controlling the temperature of the contents of the vessel to promote melting of the hydrates.

[0069] In one embodiment, the first medium comprises a gas, the gas comprising one or more constituent gas components.

[0070] Additionally, the present disclosure relates to a method of releasing nanobubbles or nanodroplets from a liquid, the method comprising controllably releasing the nanobubbles or nanodroplets by applying a signal to a liquid storing the nanobubbles or nanodroplets, the signal comprising at least one of an acoustic signal or an electromagnetic signal. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0071] The present teachings will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0072] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows a process diagram detailing a system used in carrying out a method for generating nanobubbles or nanodroplets in accordance with the present disclosure. [Figure 2] 2 shows an embodiment of a generator, including a cross section thereof, forming part of the system of FIG. 1; [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of an electrode. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a perspective view illustrating another exemplary embodiment of an electrode. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a perspective view illustrating a further exemplary embodiment of an electrode. [Figure 6] 1 is a flowchart detailing exemplary steps for generating nanobubbles or nanodroplets. [Figure 7] 1 is a graph showing the relationship between the surface area of ​​nanobubbles and their enhanced stability at various applied electric field strengths. [Figure 8] 1 is a graph showing the relationship between nanobubble size and nanobubble lifetime. [Figure 9] 1 is a graph showing the change in current of a DC power supply over a 24 hour period. [Figure 10] Also provided is another system for generating nanobubbles or nanodroplets in accordance with the present teachings. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is a diagram of a system for treating biogas and wastewater according to one embodiment of the present teachings. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a flow diagram illustrating exemplary steps of a method for treating biogas and wastewater using the system of FIG. 11 in accordance with one embodiment of the present teachings. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 is a flow diagram illustrating exemplary steps of a method for treating wastewater. [Figure 14] FIG. 1 is a flow diagram illustrating exemplary steps of a method for processing a multi-component mixture. [Figure 15]FIG. 1 is a diagram of an apparatus for generating nanobubbles and nanodroplets consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] FIG. 1 is a diagram of an electrode according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17a] Figure 1 provides an illustration of a molecular dynamics simulation. [Figure 17b] Figure 1 provides an illustration of a molecular dynamics simulation. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0073] The present disclosure will now be described with reference to exemplary methods, generators, and systems for treating biogas and wastewater from anaerobic digestion via nanobubble and gas hydrate formation. It will be understood that the exemplary methods, generators, and systems are provided to aid in understanding the teachings and should not be construed as limiting in any manner. Furthermore, elements or components described with reference to any one figure may be interchanged with those of other figures or other equivalent elements without departing from the spirit of the present teachings. It will be understood that for simplicity and clarity of description, where considered appropriate, reference numerals may be repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or similar elements.

[0074] Referring now to the drawings, and initially to FIGS. 1 and 2, a system 100 for generating nanoelements, which may be nanobubbles or nanodroplets, according to the present disclosure is shown. The system 100 includes a generator 101 in which the nanoelements are generated. The generator 101 includes a hollow interior region defining a volume 102 containing a liquid 103 therein. In an exemplary embodiment, the liquid 103 may be deionized water or another aqueous solution. A medium in the form of a gas or liquid is supplied to the container 102 and dispersed within the liquid 103. An electrode 104, as best shown in FIG. 2, is provided to generate an electric field in the vicinity of the volume 102 to promote the generation of nanoelements therein. The electrode 104 and the liquid 103 are not in direct electrical contact to avoid electrolysis occurring within the volume 102. In an exemplary embodiment, the electrode 104 is covered or coated, such as with an insulating material or coating.

[0075] To cool the contents within volume 102, a cooling means, such as a freezer or isothermal bath 105, is provided. Isothermal bath 105 is configured to circulate a coolant through at least a portion of generator 101 proximate volume 102. In the exemplary embodiment, generator 101 is double-walled with passages 106 provided therein for accommodating the flow of coolant. The coolant is introduced into passages 106 via inlet pipe 107. The coolant is then returned to isothermal bath 105 via outlet pipe 108. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that there are multiple coolants that can be used as the coolant. For example, in the exemplary embodiment, the coolant is provided as a mixture of water and ethylene glycol. Alternatively, the coolant can be an antifreeze. Isothermal bath 105 is operable to provide a coolant in a temperature range of 263 to 343 K.

[0076] The generator 102 further comprises sealing means for sealing the volume 102. The sealing means may include a closure cap 109 for operatively engaging a sidewall of the generator 102 and a sealing gasket 110. In an exemplary embodiment, the sealing gasket 110 is formed from Teflon. Vacuum means may be provided for evacuating the volume 102, which may be provided, for example, by a vacuum pump 111. Agitation means may be provided for agitating the contents of the volume. In an exemplary embodiment, the agitation means includes a mechanical agitator (not shown), which may be configured to provide a rocking motion.

[0077] Parameters associated with the generator 102 may be monitored using a data acquisition system 112. A temperature sensor 113 is provided for sensing a temperature associated with the contents of the volume 102. In an exemplary arrangement, the temperature sensor includes a thermocouple. A pressure sensor 114 is provided for sensing a pressure associated with the generator 102. In one example, the temperature associated with the generator 102 is monitored using a platinum resistance temperature element (thermocouple). Both the temperature monitored by the temperature sensor 113 and the pressure monitored by the pressure sensor 114 were recorded at intervals using the data acquisition system 112.

[0078] The generator 102 further includes a source 115 of medium. In the exemplary embodiment, the source 115 includes three separate gas sources that are selectively controlled to provide the appropriate gas or combination of gases to the volume 102. While FIG. 1 illustrates the three gas sources as propane, methane, and hydrogen, those skilled in the art will appreciate that any suitable gas source may be used and is not intended to limit the disclosure to the exemplary gases described. The generator 102 is controlled via a control circuit 116. The control circuit 116 is in communication with the source 115, the vacuum pump 111, the temperature sensor 113, the pressure sensor 114, the data acquisition system 112, and the isothermal bath 105. A backpressure valve 117 facilitates the controlled introduction of the medium from the source 115 into the vessel 102 without losing the liquid 103 from the volume 102. An inlet conduit 118 facilitates routing the medium from the source 115 to the volume 102. A flow meter 119 is provided to meter the flow of medium into the volume 102 .

[0079] In use, the introduction of gas from gas source 115 into volume 102 is controlled via a series of ball valves 120, described in further detail below. Control of gas source 115 involves altering the series of ball valves 120 to route a gas or combination of gases to either vacuum pump 111 or dump 121, as the need arises. Backpressure cylinder 122 accommodates gas flow when backpressure valve 117 is closed.

[0080] 2 details a cross section of a double-walled generator 101 including a volume 102 filled with a liquid 103 and a medium. In an exemplary embodiment, the liquid 103 is deionized water and is 20 cm 3 3, the electrodes 104 include a cathode 123 and an anode 124, which in the exemplary embodiment are wired to the bottom of the volume 102 in a parallel arrangement to generate an electrostatic field that is applied to the contents of the volume 102. electrostatic fieldThe effect of this is to form and accumulate nanobubbles of the gaseous medium or nanodroplets of the liquid medium within the liquid 103. A DC current is applied to the electrodes 104 to generate a potential difference of up to 60 volts. Larger voltages are contemplated by the inventors in the present disclosure, scaled upward with other parameters used, e.g., the volume of the liquid 103 and the ratio of the medium introduced into the volume 102.

[0081] Importantly, an advantageous feature of the present disclosure is that none of the electrode 104 embodiments are coated or covered with an insulating coating or material, such as to be in direct electrical contact with the liquid-gas mixture. This insulating coating can be, for example, a dielectric paint or other suitable material. Thus, the present disclosure differs from previously known electrolysis-based methods. Easy, controlled, on-demand extraction of nanobubbles is achieved by applying an acoustic signal, such as an acoustic impulse, to the contents of the nanobubble-containing volume 102. After the acoustic signal is applied for a predetermined period of time, the nanobubbles or nanodroplets are completely extracted from the liquid 103, such that the volume 102 contains primarily liquid 103. This extraction method is not only easy and controllable enough, but also allows extraction over a period well prior to nanobubble metastability, which can extend to timescales of several months. Easy, controlled, on-demand release of nanobubbles can also be achieved using a magnetic field. The magnetic field can be provided by a permanent magnet, although other means, such as an electromagnetic pulse or series of pulses, are contemplated by the inventors. Furthermore, this method of extracting nanobubbles of gas or nanodroplets of liquid media is energy efficient, as will be explained below with reference to FIG.

[0082] 3 shows a first generation embodiment of electrodes 104A consisting of a cathode 123 and an anode 124 configured in parallel and positioned at the base 126 of volume 102. Finite element studies performed by the inventors found that in this embodiment, only 30% of the liquid 103 in volume 102 was exposed to the electric field. As a result, two further embodiments were developed.

[0083] 4 shows a second-generation embodiment of electrode 104B comprised of concentric elements 127, each of which further includes a cathode 123 and an anode 124 set in parallel contact at any given point on the concentric element 127. Both the cathode 123 and the anode 124 are routed to their respective electrical contacts through a central opening 128. This embodiment allows for a greater degree of exposure of the liquid 103 to the electric field, as compared to the first embodiment shown in FIG. 3, and the liquid 103 is routed to cavitation between the concentric elements 127.

[0084] FIG. 5 illustrates a third-generation embodiment of the electrode 104C, in which the electrode 104 includes multiple cathodes 123 and multiple anodes 124 arranged in a parallel configuration and connected to multiple mesh elements 129. Each mesh element 129 includes an opening 130 for receiving a portion of a delivery mechanism 131 used to deliver a gaseous or liquid medium to the volume 102. The delivery mechanism 131 includes an elongated tubular member 132 that is dimensioned to extend through the openings 130 of the mesh elements 129. In the exemplary embodiment, the elongated tubular member 132 is operably attached to a base member 133. Both the elongated tubular member 132 and the base member 133 can be fabricated from any suitable insulating material, such as a specific polymer. The delivery mechanism 131 includes multiple outlets 134 to facilitate distribution of the medium within the volume 102. These outlets 134 are dimensioned to contain the medium but prevent the liquid 103 from entering the interior volume defined by either the elongated tubular member 132 or the base member 133 .

[0085] The outlets 134 on the base member 133 are positioned relative to the mesh element 129 so that media introduced into the volume 102 from the source 115 is not trapped near the bottom of the volume 102 by the material wires of the mesh element 129. Cross section 136 illustrates the positioning of the outlets 134 relative to the mesh element 129. In the exemplary embodiment, the outlets 134 extend radially from the tubular member 132 on the base member 133. The cathode 123 and anode 124 are both separately connected to their own collector bus bars on opposite sides of the conductive mesh 31 to avoid undesired short circuits. This embodiment of the electrodes 104 increases both the level of liquid exposure to the electric field and the electric field strength by a factor of 10 compared to the previous embodiment; therefore, the inventors envision this embodiment being further scalable for industrial applications.

[0086] The metastable gas solubility levels achievable with this method are significantly higher than previously known levels, as shown in Table 1. For methane, the gas solubility level is found to be 22.5 times higher than the effective Henry's law for methane, while for oxygen, the gas solubility level is found to be 2.5 times higher with this method. For carbon dioxide, the defactor Henry's law coefficient is found to increase by a factor of 15. We envision this having clear applications in the gas storage industry. Furthermore, we envision this having important applications in reducing industrial carbon emissions. [Table 1]

[0087] Furthermore, this method can also be applied to phase mixtures (gases or liquids) in contact with a parent liquid phase, referred to in this disclosure as liquid 103. One possible implementation of this, although not intended to limit its scope, is a mixture of methane and carbon dioxide. The Henry's Law coefficient solubility of carbon dioxide in milligrams per liter is 30 times that of methane. Application of an electric field to the mixture, as in the disclosed method, results in a 12-fold increase in carbon dioxide solubility, thus causing a significantly larger fraction of carbon dioxide to diffuse into the liquid than methane, purifying the methane to levels in the 97-98% range. This has important applications, for example, in the biogas industry to control methane production in agriculture, or for treating biogas from anaerobic digesters (e.g., in the wastewater treatment industry). Corrosive contaminants such as H2S, which can inhibit combustion, can be removed, enabling the use of biogas in the generation of heat and / or electricity, for example, in combined heat and power cycles.

[0088] While methods of generating nanobubbles without using electrolysis have historically been understood to be energy inefficient, the present disclosure is significantly more energy efficient than prior art disclosures. In this regard, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present disclosure has significant value to industry.

[0089] Reference is now made to FIG. 6, which illustrates a flowchart 150 detailing exemplary steps for generating nanobubbles or nanodroplets in accordance with the present disclosure. In step 154, a liquid is filled into volume 102. In step 156, a medium, such as a gaseous medium or a liquid medium, is dispersed within liquid 103 within volume 102. In step 158, an electric field is generated in the vicinity of volume 102 to promote the generation of nanobubbles or nanodroplets using electrodes 104. In step 159, electrodes 104 and liquid 103 are not in direct electrical contact to prevent electrolysis from occurring within volume 102.

[0090] A schematic diagram of an exemplary configuration according to the present disclosure is shown in FIG. 1 that may be used to implement the steps of flowchart 150. It will be understood that the disclosure is not intended to be limited to the particular generator 101 described herein, which is provided by way of example only. The generator 101 is a 340 cm 3 A stainless steel (SS-316) isostatic volume 102 with a volume of 100 sq. m and a maximum design pressure of 24 MPa was used to conduct the experiments. The temperature of volume 102 was controlled by circulating a mixture of water and ethylene glycol as a coolant in isothermal bath 105. The temperature of isothermal bath 105 was adjustable between 263 and 343 K. A platinum resistance temperature detector (Pt-100) with an accuracy of 0.1 K was used to measure the temperature of volume 102. The use of a double-walled generator helped control the temperature while preventing the coolant from contaminating the water 103. The thermometer was calibrated against a reference platinum resistance temperature detector. The pressure associated with volume 102 was monitored by transducer 114 at an unsteady state of ±0.010 MPa. Mechanical agitation was applied to volume 102 using an adjustable-speed rocking device. System 100 also included a data acquisition program 112, which recorded the temperature and pressure at different time intervals. It will be understood that the exemplary values ​​set forth herein are provided by way of example only, and that alternative values ​​may be used.

[0091] The cathode 123 and anode 124 of the electrode 104 are operably connected to a DC power supply having a potential of 30 V. An electric field is applied to the water 103. The water 103 is filled in a first step, and then the volume 102 is sealed using a closure cap 109 and a sealing gasket 110. The generator 101 is filled with gas at 100 bar, and the pressure is recorded during the formation of nanobubbles or nanodroplets. Those skilled in the art will understand that the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the exemplary values ​​described. For example, it is contemplated that the voltage of the DC power supply can be set to any desired value.

[0092] Before starting the process, the volume 102 was sprayed with water, washed, and thoroughly dried using an airflow to clean the volume 102 where the liquid was filled and the medium was introduced to avoid contamination. The volume 102 was then checked for leaks by injecting nitrogen at a pressure of 1 MPa. The leak test was performed to verify the accuracy of the pressure measurements during nanobubble formation. In the next step, an inert gas was purged and the trapped gas was evacuated from the volume 102 using a vacuum pump 111 for approximately 30 minutes. This second cleaning step with inert gas and gas evacuation removes unwanted gas molecules within the volume defined by the volume 102. 20 cm 3 A volume of deionized water 3 was filled into volume 102; this amount of water 103 was found to provide a good level of reproducible performance. The pressure associated with volume 102 was increased by injecting a selected gas from source 115 until the desired pressure was reached. In an exemplary experiment, approximately 100 bar of gas was filled into volume 102. Water 103 became saturated after approximately two hours of gas-water contact in the presence of mechanical agitation. An adjustable speed rocking device (not shown) was used to increase the mechanical agitation of volume 102. This mechanical agitation creates turbulence in the water, improving water-gas contact and increasing the yield of bubble formation. Next, a DC current (0-60 V) was applied while pressure and temperature were recorded every second. It is understood that the exemplary values ​​described herein are provided by way of example only, and alternative values ​​may be used.

[0093] Molecular dynamics simulations were used to study the mechanism of nanobubble formation in an externally applied electric field and to characterize their stability conditions. Nanobubbles were observed from molecular dynamics of hydrate decomposition in an electric field. We studied the stability of nanobubbles under an applied electric field, and the results, shown in Figure 7, indicate greater stability of hydrates at higher electric field strengths.

[0094] After the formation of methane nanobubbles, the solution was stored at ambient conditions (pressure, temperature) for 3 months and characterized using dynamic light scattering. The results show that the nanobubbles coalesced during the aging period, increasing the bubble size, but this increase was not sufficient to force the nanobubbles out of the aqueous medium, as shown in Figure 8.

[0095] The energy of nanobubble formation during the 24-hour formation process can be calculated based on the energy stored in the volume 102, where the combination of the electrode 104 and water 103 can resemble a capacitor with a capacitance of approximately 3 nF. During nanobubble formation, the dielectric value of the water 103 changes, which can be thought of as leakage of the capacitor. To compensate for the leakage, extra energy must be added to the system 100. Therefore, to calculate the total energy, the applied current was recorded in the data acquisition system 112 during this formation process. The graph in Figure 9 shows the current fluctuations as a function of time. Although the observed current is very low, the average of this oscillation over 24 hours is 22 nAmp, which means that 1.9 millicoulombs would need to be added to the capacitor to maintain the same level of energy. Therefore, the total energy to form nanobubbles for 24 hours is:

number

[0096] This is a particularly small amount of energy delivered for only 20 ml of liquid 103, and represents a significant level of energy efficiency. This can be seen in comparison to systems currently available in the wastewater industry, for example. The energy consumption of the present system 100 is 0.3 Whr / m of water 103. 3 This is much lower than what is currently available in advanced systems in the wastewater industry (40 Whr / m 3). Furthermore, while aeration levels in the wastewater industry currently reach a limit of approximately 0.5 mg / L of dissolved oxygen, the methods of the present disclosure achieve levels of 25-30 mg / L. The aeration levels achieved with the present disclosure are furthermore metastable on timescales of several months. It will be understood that the exemplary values ​​set forth herein are provided by way of example only, and that alternative values ​​may be used.

[0097] The important parameters of the method according to the present teachings are as follows: Electric field strength (E=V / d for the electrode design in Figure 3) where V is the applied voltage. d is the distance between the cathode and anode in the electrode design.

[0098] When using the first-generation electrode 104A, 30 V was applied to generate a relatively high electric field strength. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that it is not intended to limit the applied voltage to 60 V, as other values ​​may be applied. The distance d between the cathode and anode was 5 mm. Therefore, the maximum applied electric field is 12,000 V / m. This d value may be different for the second-generation electrode 104B in FIG. 4 and the third-generation electrode 104C in FIG. 5, so the electric field strength will vary accordingly. Dispersion is primarily a function of electrode geometry and design.

[0099] In general, the nanobubbles became more relaxed due to the reduced kinetic energy of the molecules, resulting in a faster bubble formation process. On the other hand, extremely low temperatures can cause some undesirable reactions, such as the formation of hydrates in the case of methane or water freezing. As a result, we chose 15°C for methane (lower than 13°C at which methane hydrates are formed) and 2°C for oxygen.

[0100] To accelerate nanobubble formation, the inventors recognized that more gas molecules need to come into contact with the water 103. This is achieved by increasing the gas pressure in volume 102. In an exemplary configuration, volume 102 was filled with 100 bar of gas. The inventors recognized that this pressure could be significantly reduced by modifying the purge system or adding a pre-saturation step using a concentrator.

[0101] Referring to FIG. 10, another system 200 for generating nanobubbles or nanodroplets is shown, also in accordance with the present teachings. System 200 is substantially similar to system 100, with like elements being designated by like reference numerals. The primary difference between system 200 and system 100 is that system 200 includes a concentrator 205 for concentrating the gas medium. The inventors have recognized that increased gas uptake optimizes performance, resulting in a longer metastable gas capacity, exceeding several months, upon removal of the electric field and pressure reduction. This is because 2 3 T, P, and field strength in a DoX factorial design. For example, one might use (estimated) field strengths of 40 and 160 bar, 1 and 35° C., and approximately 5,000 V / m and 20,000 V / m in a series of eight experiments to develop a regression fit or the like for two dependent variables: dissolved gas level in the tank under field and P conditions, and second, dissolved gas level (mg / L) several hours after removal from pressure volume 102 and storage at ambient laboratory pressure.

[0102] Storage container 210 can be used to store the nanobubbles / nanodroplets. In system 200, storage container 210 is at 3-4°C, which delays the cavitation and aggregation of the inverse nanobubbles to micro-size (and escape into the gas phase). However, for longer-term storage (on the order of months) or transportation of liquids containing nanobubbles, the water containing the nanobubbles can be frozen immediately after removing it from volume 102 for long-term storage of the nanobubbles in water, which can then be thawed for later use.

[0103] In particular, freezing the liquid (containing nanobubbles) at high pressure while in volume 102 allows for time preservation of much higher levels of effective gas solubility. For example, it is possible to achieve high levels (thousands of mg / L) of O2 in ice (reaching 1,400 mg / L DO already at about 100 bar in the laboratory), which can then be stored in a freezer at ambient pressure for several days, with the gas slowly seeping out of the ice. If stored in inexpensive, commodity pressure vessel buckets (plastic, AI, etc.) up to 25 bar, commonly / routinely available in the process industry for intermediate pressurized storage during transport, this can be stored in a regular industrial / consumer freezer in a very economical manner for long-term storage and transport at significantly elevated gas levels, and then used elsewhere when thawed in a high-pressure-rated vessel.

[0104] Acoustic and / or magnetic field exposure can be used to extract nanobubbles or nanodroplets to provide controlled, on-demand release. By exposing the storage volume 210 to an acoustic impulse of approximately 10-50 N, gas nanobubbles or liquid nanodroplets are seen to largely leave the liquid, typically within hours, rather than the many weeks or months of metastable state that result. The inventors have also recognized that magnetic fields can be used to provide controlled release of nanobubbles or nanodroplets from water. The magnetic field can be provided using either a permanent magnet or an electromagnetic pulse, or a series of such pulses. The magnetic field strength can be on the order of millitesla or greater.

[0105] The differential incorporation of species into aqueous nanophase fluids (whether as droplets or gases, depending in part on the prevailing temperature and pressure relative to each species-specific critical point) is an important fundamental feature that needs to be manipulated to improve the utilization of nanophases as agents in species separation processes.

[0106] The development of nanophase-enhanced gas-liquid absorption operations has applications / interest in conventional liquid gas absorption in packed columns for various purposes and applications, such as air quality compliance for gas emissions, or indeed liquid-liquid extraction operations. Advantageously, the conventional vapor-liquid equilibrium constant, y, i =H i x i (H i is the Henry's law constant, HLC) is the i =H i * x i where H i * is effectively an HLC enhanced by the addition of nanophases. (Given that the timescale for this metastable state spans many months, much shorter than the residence time of unit operations, this is understood to be a practical and effective processing approximation.) Therefore, we rely on "equilibrium" conditions to preserve the corpus of process engineering design analysis for unit operations.

[0107] The significantly enhanced surface area-to-volume ratio evident in the nanophase, combined with the far more favorable virtual equilibrium conditions, may facilitate the devising and investigation of much more effective multicomponent gas separation / enrichment operations than are currently commercially available. While applicable to pure gas stripping, the concepts of this disclosure are even more valuable for differential uptake of multicomponent gas mixtures in both the gas and immiscible liquid phases (e.g., biogas purification and exhaust gas treatment, as discussed below). In certain embodiments, an in-line gas chromatography system can be used to confirm gas enrichment levels in near real time for process control purposes (i.e., gas composition ratio control). Related molecular dynamics simulations reveal the microscopic mechanisms of multicomponent gas mixture uptake into liquids, enabling further process optimization.

[0108] In certain embodiments, this principle can be further applied to distillation, whether single or multiple components. Again, for nanobubble-enhanced gas-liquid operation, the "NB-shifted equilibrium" y i =H i * x i may be used, where H i * is effectively an enhanced HLC with the addition of a nanophase. Preliminary process simulation results using this shifted equilibrium relationship show much lower energy consumption (approximately 40%) and substantially enhanced vapor-phase enrichment of the most volatile components (MVCs) compared to conventional distillation.

[0109] Here, depending on the exhaust gas composition, in preliminary "pre-NB" operation, pressure swing adsorption (PSA)-type methods can be applied to remove higher CO2 concentrations, especially when %CO2 is higher than about 10-12%, which are often included in exhaust gas emissions from steel and cement plants, as well as power plants or CHP facilities (whether biogas or any other sector). Here, if PSA is deployed for exhaust gas treatment of higher CO2 concentrations, i.e., "heavy lifting," "low hanging fruit" or "economically / operationally beneficial marginal CO2 removal treatment," NB-compatible differential exhaust gas stripping / removal holds promise.

[0110] In an advantageous embodiment of the present disclosure, the (residual) exhaust gas passes directly through the water, and some preliminary microbubble formation, for example, by an eductor or venturi-type nozzle, followed by active nanobubble / droplet formation as described above, can enable the exhaust gas to be concentrated. O2 and N2 are supercritical, non-condensable gases, and all are slightly in excess of HLC levels in terms of water concentration (approximately 2.5 times or more), but can disappear. This can leave other (pollutant) gases with significantly enhanced solubility limits.

[0111] In a further embodiment of the removal of gaseous components from exhaust gases, a bidirectional liquid / gas compartment separated by a plane containing carbon nanotubes (or other hydrophobic porous solid networks that prevent the passage of water from one side to the other) can be utilized. First, the "empty" side of the bidirectional box can contain a vacuum imposed by a vacuum pump so that the absolute pressure on that side is approximately 0.3-0.5 bar. Preferably, the pressure on this side of the bidirectional box is less than 1 bar. Liquid water (containing NB or nanodroplets) is located on the other side of the bidirectional box. Next, (pollutant, hydrophobic) gases (CO, CO, methane, ammonia, etc.) are driven by their chemical potential to pass through the gas phase and thus pass through the carbon nanotubes to the gas side, but the carbon nanotubes do not allow water to pass through to a significant extent.

[0112] In embodiments similar to those described above with respect to the removal of gaseous components from exhaust gases, direct air capture (DAC) may be achieved. The PSA-type method steps described above are not specifically required as preliminary steps, unless desired. It is envisioned that in addition to "ambient air," nanobubble generation and the use of hydrophobic or carbon nanotube filtering based on impeding / rejecting the passage of water may be used in further embodiments. More specifically, "ambient air" or DAC herein refers to air, whether indoors or outdoors, but crucially at or near ambient pressure. However, this is believed to be applicable to agricultural air (seasonal or year-round), such as indoor battery farming, where methane levels or ammonia, etc., are elevated, as well as DAC, particularly in and around cities, beyond the dedicated CCS-type systems for point emitters described above. Further applications of these embodiments may include, but are not limited to, crop growing, irrigation, hydroponics, fish farms, and aquaculture. It can be appreciated that DAC is further considered highly desirable in addressing pollution, particularly in urban and industrial environments, as part of climate change mitigation efforts. Accordingly, such improvements to DAC methods and systems are widely understood to be advantageous.

[0113] Advantageously, in the case of a mixture of immiscible liquids, the mixture has the formula x i,k =K i,j,k x i,j (where K i,j,k is the liquid-liquid distribution coefficient for species j of liquid phase i for K) The liquid-liquid equilibrium distribution relationship is x i,k =K i * ,j,k x i,j (K i * ,j,kis the enhanced effective partition coefficient, which may be replaced by (by additional preferential adjustment in one phase). Experiments with immiscible liquids have observed that generating nanodroplets to different degrees in each liquid phase achieves substantial species enrichment in one liquid phase. This is a highly advantageous aspect of the present disclosure and an important unit operation in the chemical industry. Advantageously, in certain embodiments, multi-component petroleum nanodroplets can be used as a method for enriching species concentrations in petroleum fractions in water using the nanodroplet formation method described above. x i,k =K i * ,j,k x i,j Substantial enrichment of oil nanodroplets in water has been observed in simulations using this technology. Such applications could potentially help revisit mature oil wells.

[0114] A further advantageous application of the exemplary generators, systems, and methods for generating nanobubbles is in agricultural settings. Specifically, but not exclusively, the exemplary generators, systems, and methods for generating nanobubbles or nanodroplets can be used to enhance seed germination. Enhanced seed germination can provide numerous benefits to crop growth productivity in agriculture, animal feed, and biofuel production. As discussed, various embodiments using the exemplary generators, systems, and methods can produce water that substantially incorporates a desired gas. In some embodiments, the gas can be oxygen. Advantageously, using the exemplary generators, systems, and methods, water can contain dissolved oxygen levels of up to 25-30 mg / L. As an example, experiments were conducted to test the usefulness of highly oxygenated water in enhancing the germination of watercress seeds. Five to six watercress seeds were placed in a 24-slot tray, with approximately 70 ml of peat moss in each slot. Approximately 15 ml of deionized water was provided in each slot of the first tray, and 15 ml of deionized water containing approximately 15 mg / L of dissolved oxygen (primarily in the form of nanobubbles) was provided in each slot of the second tray. After seven days, the two trays were compared, and seed germination and growth was found to be approximately 35% enhanced in the tray containing deionized water with nanobubbles compared to the tray containing deionized water without nanobubbles. Therefore, a further advantageous aspect of the present generator, system, and method for generating nanobubbles is its usefulness in enhancing crop growth. It will be understood that the example of watercress seed germination is provided by way of example only and should not be construed as limiting in any way, shape, or form. The use of liquid containing nanobubbles generated according to the present disclosure can be applied to various liquids and gases and at various scales depending on the user's needs. For example, it is envisioned that the amount of liquid and gas used for nanobubble generation therein can be adjusted for industrial scales in addition to personal use. Advantageously, the DO-enriched liquid water can be placed in direct contact with the atmosphere, and the nanobubble generation process can continue. This could potentially be achieved by retrofitting outdoor water (settling) tanks and reservoirs up to large "grid" scale.

[0115] Advantageously and similarly to the above embodiments relating to gas-liquid absorption and liquid-liquid extraction, the solid-liquid equilibrium distribution relationship equation z k =K j,k x j (where K j,k is the solid-liquid distribution coefficient of solid phase species j with respect to k) x k =K j * , k x j (where K j * , k is the enhanced effective partition coefficient and can be replaced by additional preferential adjustment in the liquid phase as nanobubbles or nanodroplets. Experiments have observed that different degrees of nanodroplet or nanobubble generation in the liquid phase achieve substantial species enrichment in the liquid phase. Solid-liquid leaching is a very important unit operation in the mining and extractive industries. The resulting wastewater, with enhanced mineral and dissolved ionic species, can be treated / cleaned by hydrate formation according to the system and method best described in Figures 11 and 12, respectively. As discussed above, the residual water can be further cleaned by O2 nanobubble-enhanced activated sludge, if desired.

[0116] In a further advantageous embodiment of the present disclosure, stoichiometric excess H can be introduced into the anaerobic digester in the form of nanobubbles, without the need for subsequent purification, resulting in "grid-quality" pure biogas, such as biomethane. As discussed below, nanobubble generation can be used for HS and CO capture, much like the AD step itself. Thus, the need for subsequent biogas purification is largely redundant, providing a further improvement over state-of-the-art anaerobic digesters. The extra hydrogen in the AD step allows for the production of much purer biogas / biomethane with less CO and HS. The use of H in nanobubble form means that much less biomethane enrichment (which can still be achieved according to the systems and methods described in Figures 11 and 12 below) is required, allowing for even higher levels of methane purity.

[0117] Referring now to FIG. 11 , a process diagram of an exemplary system 1100 for processing multi-component mixtures is shown. In an exemplary embodiment, system 1100 may include the exemplary generator 101 of the previous figure, although other sources of nanobubbles or nanodroplets are contemplated as viable, and on-site generation of nanophase components is optional and advantageous in various embodiments. In an exemplary embodiment, system 1100 may be used to treat biogas and wastewater produced by an anaerobic digester via nanobubble and gas hydrate formation. However, exemplary system 1100 is not limited to use in anaerobic digestion contexts, and other uses are contemplated.

[0118] The operation of system 1100 will now be described with respect to an exemplary method of treating wastewater from an anaerobic digester, with the understanding that wastewater is an example of a first medium and a gas, such as biogas, is an example of a second medium. Furthermore, the source of the first medium and / or second medium need not be an anaerobic digester, as will be understood in view of the various embodiments described above (for example).

[0119] Wastewater may be introduced into the generator 101 via a first inlet 1105, while biogas may be introduced into the generator 101 via a second inlet 1110. The wastewater may optionally be directed through a sand filter 1115 before reaching the generator 101 to minimize the amount of particulate matter or other undesirable material, other than the wastewater itself, reaching the generator 101. Once the biogas and / or wastewater are provided to the generator 101, a biogas purification process may be initiated. In an exemplary embodiment, the biogas purification process is a nanobubble generation process, such as that according to FIG. 6. Advantageously, a biogas purification process, such as the biogas purification process of FIG. 6, can be completed in a single pass, i.e., methane of up to about 98% purity is obtained, and as a result, repetition of the purification process may not be necessary. In an exemplary embodiment, microorganisms may convert HS to FeSO by adding iron, precipitating sulfur. CH purified from CO through the formation of CO nanobubbles can be sent from the generator 101 to the gas storage unit 1125 via the first outlet 1120. In an exemplary embodiment, the gas storage unit 1125 includes multiple gas storage vessels. Following biogas purification, wastewater and CO nanobubbles can be released from the generator 101. In an exemplary embodiment, CO can be controllably released from its solvated nanobubble form within the generator 101 by application of an acoustic or electromagnetic signal, as described above. The wastewater and CO can be directed to the secondary treatment vessel 1130 via the first outlet 1135. Instead of directing the wastewater to the generator 101, an outlet (not shown) can be provided to the generator 101 connected to a conduit that directs the wastewater to the secondary treatment vessel 1130. The outlet can be connected to the conduit via a controlled release mechanism, such as a tap or a valve mechanism (not shown).

[0120] While this figure shows three copies of secondary treatment vessel 1130, it can be understood that this is presented for illustrative purposes only in elucidating the three-step process that takes place in secondary treatment vessel 1130. This three-step process will now be described.

[0121] In the first stage, wastewater and CO2 are charged into the secondary treatment vessel 1130. In an exemplary embodiment, the wastewater and CO2 are charged into the treatment vessel 1130 at room temperature.

[0122] In the second stage, the secondary treatment vessel 1130 is cooled to a temperature lower than the load temperature of the first stage. In the second stage, clathrate hydrates are formed from the CO2 and wastewater. The formation of the clathrate hydrates significantly purifies the wastewater. Residual contaminants separated from the water can then be directed out of the secondary treatment vessel 1130, leaving behind the CO2 and purified water.

[0123] Next, in a third stage, the temperature of the secondary treatment vessel 1130 can be increased to promote dissolution of clathrate hydrates. The purified water can then be discharged from the secondary treatment vessel 1130 via a second outlet 1140. In one embodiment, the purified water can be directed to a water holding vessel (not shown), such as, but not limited to, a water tank or silo. The water holding vessel can be intended for temporary or long-term water storage. In another embodiment, the purified water can be directed to a public or private water supply. The CO can be directed to a gas storage vessel of the gas storage unit 1125 via a third outlet 1145.

[0124] Figure 12 is a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary method 1200 for processing a multi-component mixture using the exemplary system 1100 of Figure 11. Initially, at 1210, the steps of Figure 6 are performed. In one embodiment, the liquid provided to the generator 101 at step 1210 comprises entirely wastewater. In an alternative embodiment, the liquid provided to the generator 101 at step 1210 comprises partly wastewater and partly additional liquids other than wastewater. In another embodiment, the liquid provided to the generator 101 does not comprise wastewater, and wastewater is provided directly to the secondary treatment vessel 1130 from an anaerobic digester or another source. Typically, wastewater may be received from an anaerobic digester, although it may be understood that other wastewater sources, such as, but not limited to, sewage, are similarly feasible. For example, wastewater purified using the systems and / or methods of Figures 11 and 12 may include, but is not limited to, seawater, frack water, reverse osmosis wastewater, agricultural wastewater, slaughterhouse and tannery wastewater, and even mining water distribution and wastewater from cement and construction. Furthermore, the source of gas need not necessarily be from an anaerobic digester; by way of example only, gas may be sourced from landfills, mining, construction, industry, vehicles, or other settings. Indeed, the anaerobic digester embodiment is provided by way of example only. The use of nanobubbles or nanodroplets of guest species, such as gas, together with wastewater components to form hydrates and treat wastewater may be applied to a variety of wastewater treatment scenarios. Indeed, the integrated purification of multi-component gas and wastewater streams is believed to be broadly applicable beyond anaerobic digestion to a variety of settings at various scales, from small-scale agricultural or domestic use to large-scale industrial applications such as chemical processing or production plants. As discussed above, the medium supplied to the generator 101 may be a mixture of two or more gases. In an exemplary embodiment, the gas medium supplied to generator 101 in step 1210 includes at least methane and carbon dioxide. Additionally, as noted above, nanodroplets may also be formed using generator 101, and such nanodroplets may be used in the above-described process of FIG. 12 and system 1100 of FIG. 11.Gas components other than methane may include, but are not limited to, propane, ethane, butane, pentane, hexane, etc., and, if desired, isomers of the same, such as isobutane. In embodiments where the multi-component mixture includes multiple liquids, hydrates may be formed that include the liquids, but not necessarily the gases.

[0125] The formation of nanobubbles (or nanodroplets or some combination) of the second gas substantially purifies the first gas. In an exemplary embodiment, the formation of nanobubbles of the second gas may purify the first gas by up to about 98%. Upon completion of the purification of the first gas according to the exemplary steps present in step 1210, the purified first gas may be removed from the generator 101 in 1220. In an exemplary embodiment, the purified first gas may be directed to the gas storage unit 1125. In an exemplary embodiment, the first gas component is methane.

[0126] In the exemplary embodiment, the medium 156 supplied to the volume of the generator 101 is a multi-component gas. This multi-component gas may be separated in 1210 according to the steps of FIG. 6 , and the purified first gas component may optionally be directed out of the volume of the generator 101. Following removal of the purified first gas in 1220, the second gas component of the medium (now in solvated nanobubble form from step 1210) may be controllably released from the generator 101 in 1230. The second medium, which in the exemplary embodiment is wastewater, may be directed to the secondary treatment vessel 1130 in addition to the second gas component of the medium. The wastewater may be directed from the volume of the generator 101 or directly from a source. The source of the wastewater may be the same as or different from the source of the first medium. In the exemplary embodiment, the source of the wastewater and first medium is an anaerobic digester. In an exemplary embodiment, the controllable release of the second gas component from its nanobubble form may be performed according to the release method described above, in which an acoustic or electromagnetic signal is applied to the generator 101. In an exemplary embodiment, the second gas component from which nanobubbles are formed may be carbon dioxide, and the purified component directed out of the volume of the generator 101 may be methane.

[0127] Following step 1230, the nanobubbles of the second gas and the wastewater may then be directed to a secondary treatment vessel 1130 that is maintained at a first temperature T1 at 1240. In an exemplary embodiment, the first temperature T1 is room temperature or approximately

number

[0128] Next, at 1250, the temperature of the secondary treatment vessel 1130 can be reduced to temperature T2 < T1. In an exemplary embodiment, the temperature T2 is in the range of about 273K to 283K. Subsequently, at 1260, inclusion hydrates begin to form from the second gas and the wastewater, substantially purifying the wastewater. Inclusion hydrates are non-stoichiometric crystalline inclusion compounds in which a hydrogen-bonded water host lattice entraps small guest molecules within cavities. Hydrates are very important for the treatment of (heavily contaminated) water because they form stoichiometrically pure crystals with the introduced gas and are capable of being separated from residual sludge by flotation. Effective crystallization of hydrates requires intimate contact between the gas and water. Clearly, the use of the nano-phase (regardless of whether in the form of bubbles or droplets, or some combination) improves both the aqueous concentration and the contact area of the liquid nano-droplets in particular. For example, in previous studies using propane nano-droplets and about 4%wt (solid) wastewater, the hydrate formation rate was about twice that without using the nano-phase of the pressure vessel system, and for CO2 and methane, several-fold rate enhancements were seen. In molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of nano-droplets, the inventors also confirmed that the hydrate formation rate increases significantly due to supersaturation of the guest in the aqueous phase.

[0129] The residual dirt separated from the wastewater as a result of gas hydrate formation is removed from the secondary treatment vessel 1130 at 1270. In certain embodiments, the residual dirt can be relocated to a waste holding unit. The residual dirt can then be used, for example, as a raw material in an industry or other location.

[0130] After removing the residual dirt from the secondary treatment vessel 1130, the temperature of the secondary treatment vessel 1130 can be increased at 1280. In an exemplary embodiment, the temperature of the secondary treatment vessel 1130 is returned to room temperature or approximately

Number

[0131] The systems and / or methods of Figures 11 and 12, respectively, can have multiple uses, together or separately. Advantageously, there are a variety of small-scale applications that are significantly more economically feasible than the state of the art. By way of example only, the systems and / or methods of Figures 11 and 12, respectively, can be used in agricultural settings, including farms with small numbers of livestock or small-scale agricultural settings such as late-cut silage / beet. In such embodiments, purifying biomethane or other gases according to the above methods and systems can facilitate self-sufficient production of biomethane or other gases to support domestic and dairy operations, transportation (e.g., automobiles, tractors, etc.), in addition to wastewater treatment.

[0132]

[0013] Reference is made to flowchart 1300 in Figure 13, which illustrates exemplary steps of a method for treating wastewater in accordance with the present teachings. In step 1305, a vessel is provided for receiving wastewater and gas, where the gas includes one or more constituent gas components. In step 1310, the wastewater and a first gas component of the gas are directed into the vessel. In step 1315, the temperature of the contents of the vessel is reduced from a first temperature to a second temperature to promote the formation of clathrate hydrates including the wastewater and the first gas component. In step 1320, the temperature of the contents of the vessel is increased to the second temperature to promote the melting of the clathrate hydrates. In step 1325, the purified water and / or the first gas component are removed from the vessel.

[0133]

[0013] Reference is now made to flowchart 1400 in Figure 14, which illustrates exemplary steps of a method for processing a multi-component mixture. In step 1405, a first medium is provided to a vessel. In step 1410, a second medium is provided to the vessel. In step 1415, the temperature of the contents of the vessel is controlled to promote the formation of a hydrate comprising the first medium and the second medium. In step 1420, the temperature of the contents of the vessel is controlled to promote the melting of the hydrate to provide a first processed medium and a second processed medium.

[0134] In a further advantageous embodiment of the present disclosure, a method and apparatus for facilitating the generation of nanobubbles or nanodroplets at ambient conditions is provided. The method may include the steps of FIG. 6, but the container is at ambient conditions. In an exemplary embodiment, "ambient conditions" refers to the values ​​of environmental parameters immediately surrounding the device. While ambient condition parameters may refer to several different parameters, they specifically refer to temperature and pressure. For example, ambient conditions may include, but are not limited to, temperatures in the range of approximately 273.15 K (0° C.) and 303.15 K (30° C.). For example, ambient conditions may be temperatures in the range of approximately 0 N / m 2 (0 bar) ~ 2 × 10 5 N / m 2 (2 bar). The advantages of providing nanobubble / droplet generation at relatively low pressures and temperatures are numerous. In one respect, the costs associated with providing high temperatures and / or pressures are dramatically reduced. Furthermore, nanobubble / droplet generation becomes much more readily available.

[0135] 15, an exemplary electrode apparatus 1500 capable of promoting nanobubble / droplet generation at ambient conditions is provided. The electrode apparatus 1500 comprises a vessel 1510 having a first inlet 1520 configured to promote the inflow of air (or any other gas) at ambient pressure and a first outlet 1530 configured to promote the outflow of air / gas at ambient pressure. Advantageously, this prevents pressure buildup within the vessel 1510. The vessel 1510 further includes a second inlet 1540 configured to promote the entry of a liquid, such as, but not limited to, water. In the exemplary embodiment, the electrode apparatus 1500 comprises a series of electrodes 1550 arranged in a cascade arrangement within the vessel 1510. As water passes through the electrodes 1550 and cascades from the top of the vessel 1510 to the bottom of the vessel 1510, the electric field provided by the electrodes promotes the generation of nanobubbles. The vessel 1510 further comprises a second outlet 1560 located at or near the bottom of the vessel 1510 to facilitate release of the nanobubbles and liquid. Advantageously, this configuration facilitates a continuous flow of liquid through the vessel 1510, and thus a continuous generation of nanobubbles.

[0136] As in previous embodiments described in this disclosure, the electrodes 1550 and the liquid are not in direct contact to prevent electrolysis. For example, the electrodes 1550 may be coated or laminated with an electrically insulating coating. The electrodes 1550 may include the design of FIG. 3 or the design of FIG. 4, or another design. For example, the electrodes 1550 may include laminated tin foil. To support directional flow of the liquid in a cascading manner, each electrode 1550 may be disposed on a substrate 1570. Furthermore, each electrode / substrate arrangement may be tilted at a predefined angle as needed. The number of electrodes 1550 may also be selected as needed; eight electrodes is provided by way of example only.

[0137] It may be understood that the apparatus of Figure 15 is provided by way of example only. Other vessels of different volumes and / or shapes, as well as different electrode designs and configurations, may be provided for carrying out nanobubble / droplet generation at ambient conditions.

[0138] Regarding the optimal deployment mode of the waterproof (laminated by an insulator to eliminate direct electrical contact with polar liquids and the associated electrolysis) covered "tin foil," this can be straight and rigid, or it can be in a spirally wound pattern with (sub)millimeter spacing between the "folds," as shown in Figure 16. The insulating layer 1610 can be positioned between the anode 1620 and cathode 1630 in a spirally wound pattern configuration. This allows for close water channels between these "folds" and also higher electric field strengths in these inter-foil spaces. As before, the solvent (e.g., water) and gas (or minority liquid) can be either fluid or static, and nanobubbles and / or droplets are generated. Advantageously, this can be performed at any (partial) pressure (high (gauge), low (gauge), or ambient (zero gauge)) for either pure or multi-component minority phases (gas or liquid). It will be appreciated that the tin foil may be formed from aluminum and / or another conductive material.

[0139] In another substantially cheaper "implementation," laminated foil strips can be placed in static / flowing bodies of water, such as open-to-air aquariums, ponds, lakes, reservoirs, kitchen sinks, etc., and then a DC (or AC) electric field can be turned on. Air nanobubbles are then generated in the water. Spiral-type configurations can also be created and dropped into ponds, lakes, fish farms, (activated sludge) settling tanks for water treatment, (rain)water containers for plant irrigation, or fish farms, etc.

[0140] In certain embodiments, a magnetic field may be provided near a container, such as container 1500. The inventors have discovered that providing a magnetic field near a container may facilitate nanobubble generation. Magnets may facilitate molecular diffusion through weakening of hydrogen bonds, and thus facilitate easier water oxidation. Therefore, one or more magnets (not shown in the picture) may be provided near the nanobubble generator. In an exemplary embodiment, the magnets are approximately 0.5 kg -2 A -1(0.5T)~2kg -2 A -1 It provides magnetic flux densities in the range of (2T).

[0141] It will be appreciated that there are many applications for the disclosed method and apparatus for generating nanobubbles / droplets at ambient conditions. Gas separation (and other gas-NB) applications may include: (i) air enrichment (an alternative to very costly O2 / N2 separation by cryogenics); (ii) simply obtaining higher concentrations of air nanobubbles in water while reducing the viscosity of the solution (e.g., milk) to avoid biofouling in heat exchangers, particularly for more (heavily oxygenated or "nanobubble") water for crop growth, irrigation, water treatment with activated sludge, fish farms, phytoacoustics, and cell fermentation; (iii) biogas enrichment; (iv) increasing hydrogen-NB concentration for anaerobic digestion itself (to obtain purer biogas); (v) assisting in increasing hydrogen-NB levels in liquid-phase hydrogenation reactions; (vi) boosting dissolved O2 for algae / algal growth (by itself and / or for advanced photobioreactors); and (vii) carbonation and bottling of dissolved CO2 and N2 for the beverage industry (and dissolved O2 for the fermentation / brewing of alcoholic beverages, e.g., wine, beer).

[0142] The final NB concentration is a function of time and field exposure. In the disclosed embodiments for ambient and low-pressure NB generation, such as those shown in Figure 15 above for the continuous flow example, the number of circulation loops, number of electrodes, and electrode tilt can be varied to lead to 10 to 10 bubbles / ml (these are merely exemplary figures; the number of nanobubbles generated can also vary outside of this range). An additional advantage of the cascade configuration of Figure 15 is that it facilitates long-term field exposure of the medium in the vessel while facilitating continuous flow operation.

[0143] The electric field strength also affects the concentration and size of the bubbles. Higher electric field strength can result in the formation of smaller nanobubbles at a higher concentration per unit volume. The electric field strength is a function of the applied voltage and the design and assembly of the electrodes. When using AC voltage, the selected frequency can also be effective. Therefore, the use of AC electric fields is also an important option for generating nanobubbles (NBs).

[0144] As mentioned above, this ambient and low-pressure approach can also work for the formation of liquid nanodroplets in water. Using cyclopentane / water and oil / water mixtures at low and ambient pressures, liquid nanodroplets readily form. Therefore, Figure 15 above can similarly be used to demonstrate the mixing of non-aqueous liquids with water.

[0145] For multicomponent liquids at ambient pressure, this also allows for the separation of liquid species to form nanodroplets, as species have different propensities to form nanodroplets when mixed as nanodroplets in a mother solvent. This can be useful for oil recovery and gas hydrate formation.

[0146] In all of the above, water as the "mother liquor" solvent may be displaceable by another (bipolar) solvent in response to an electric field.

[0147] Referring now to Figure 17a, an image from a large-scale molecular dynamics simulation of (gas-phase) CO2 in contact with water is shown. In particular, Figure 17a provides an illustration of the entire system with two planar CO2-water interfaces 1710, 1720, with CO2 to the "north" and "south" of a central water "strip" 1730. A dense (liquid-like) CO2 adsorption film is clearly visible on the water surface. Within the water region (see the enlarged view shown in Figure 17b), the gray represents (water-water) hydrogen bonds; gas molecules in this region 1730 are (molecularly) dissolved in water via conventional Henry's law solvation.

[0148] The simulation box is 25x50x25nm and contains 259,200 water molecules and 95,333 CO2 molecules. The bulk gas pressure (away from the interface) due to the liquid water is about 100 bar.

[0149] Figure 17b provides a "zoomed" enlargement of one interface in Figure 17a, showing that the adsorbed film thickness of several molecular layers is nearly independent of pressure (100 bar or ambient). Ambient pressure simulations (1 bar abs.) also result in an accumulation of nearly the same interfacial thickness as in Figure 17b, which effectively explains the constant strengthening of Henry's law at ambient and low pressures. This slight level of pressure dependence on the adsorbed interfacial film thickness demonstrates that ambient pressure enhances the amount (mass) of gas adsorbed at that low (partial) pressure compared to what would be expected at higher pressures where more molecules reside in the bulk gas phase, away from the interface.

[0150] The inventors observe a consistent enhancement of the Henry's Law of CO2, approximately 12 times greater than pure CO2, making direct air capture (DAC) feasible while providing a highly advantageous method and system for CO2 management. For example, laminated tin foil, for example, can be provided in a spirally wound configuration, placed in an inexpensive "penny magnet," and dropped into shallow ponds and settling tanks. There, carbon from the air can be preferentially absorbed as nanobubbles (NBs), and of course, air itself can also be absorbed. This more oxygenated, carbon-rich water benefits plant growth and irrigation, while at the same time providing significant environmental benefits by removing carbon from the air.

[0151] Those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications can be made to the above-described embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the operation of the system is described with reference to specific values, such as pressure, temperature, voltage, and volume, which are provided by way of example only, and that alternative values ​​may be used. For example, values ​​may change when experimental equipment is scaled or modified within the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the lack of additives and / or electrolysis in the exemplary embodiments is merely exemplary in nature. Thus, it will be understood that the teachings should be limited only as deemed necessary in light of the appended claims.

[0152] Similarly, when used in this specification, the term comprises / comprising is used to specify the presence of stated formations, integers, steps, or components, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more additional formations, integers, steps, components, or groups thereof.

[0153] While exemplary features of an apparatus for generating nanobubbles / nanodroplets and treating biogas and wastewater are described, it will be understood that such configurations should not be construed as limiting the invention to such features. The method for generating nanobubbles / nanodroplets and treating biogas and wastewater can be implemented in software, firmware, hardware, or a combination thereof. In one mode, the method is implemented in software as an executable program and executed by one or more special or general-purpose digital computers, such as a personal computer (PC, IBM-compatible, Apple-compatible, or otherwise), personal digital assistant, workstation, minicomputer, or mainframe computer. Steps of the method may be implemented by a server or computer on which the software modules reside or partially reside.

[0154] Generally, in terms of hardware architecture, such a computer includes a processor, memory, and one or more input and / or output (I / O) devices (or peripherals) communicatively coupled via a local interface, as well understood by those skilled in the art. The local interface can be, for example, but not limited to, one or more buses or other wired or wireless connections, as known in the art. The local interface may comprise additional elements, such as controllers, buffers (caches), drivers, repeaters, and receivers, to enable communication. Furthermore, the local interface may include address, control, and / or data connections to enable appropriate communication between the aforementioned components.

[0155] The processor can be programmed to perform the functions of the method for controlling the nanobubble / nanodroplet generator, and more broadly, the system for treating biogas and wastewater. A processor is a hardware device for executing software, particularly software stored in a memory. The processor can be any custom-made or commercially available processor, a main processing unit (CPU), an auxiliary processor among several processors associated with a computer, a semiconductor-based microprocessor (in the form of a microchip or chipset), a microprocessor, or generally any device for executing software instructions.

[0156] The memory may include any one or combination of volatile memory elements (e.g., random access memory (RAM such as DRAM, SRAM, SDRAM, etc.)) and non-volatile memory elements (e.g., ROM, hard drive, tape, CD-ROM, etc.). The memory may also incorporate electronic, magnetic, optical, and / or other types of storage media. The memory may have a distributed architecture where various components are located remotely from each other, yet are still accessed by the processor.

[0157] The software in the memory may include one or more individual programs, each of which includes an ordered list of executable instructions for implementing logical functions to implement the functionality of a module. In the examples described above, the software in the memory includes one or more components of a method and is executable by a suitable operating system (O / S).

[0158] The present disclosure may include components provided as a source program, an executable program (object code), a script, or any other entity comprising a series of instructions to be executed. In the case of a source program, the program must be converted via a compiler, assembler, interpreter, etc., which may or may not be contained in memory, to operate properly in conjunction with an O / S. Furthermore, methodologies implemented in accordance with the teachings may be expressed as (a) an object-oriented programming language having classes for data and methods, or (b) a procedural programming language, such as, but not limited to, C, C++, Pascal, Basic, Fortran, Cobol, Perl, Java, and Ada, having routines, subroutines, and / or functions.

[0159] It should be noted that if the method is implemented in software, such software can be stored on any computer-readable medium for use by or in connection with a computer-related system or method. In the context of this teaching, a computer-readable medium is an electronic, magnetic, optical, or other physical device or means that can contain or store a computer program used by or in connection with a computer-related system or method. Such an arrangement can be embodied in any computer-readable medium for use in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device, such as a computer-based system, a processor-containing system, or other system that can fetch instructions from and execute the instructions from the instruction execution system, apparatus, or device. As used herein, a "computer-readable medium" can be any means that can store, convey, propagate, or transport a program used by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device. Such a computer-readable medium can be, for example, but not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, device, or propagation medium. Any process description or block in the figures should be understood as representing a module, segment, or portion of code that contains one or more executable instructions for implementing a particular logical function or step in the process, as understood by those skilled in the art.

[0160] The above detailed description of embodiments of the present disclosure is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise form disclosed. While specific examples of the present disclosure have been described above for illustrative purposes, those skilled in the relevant art will recognize that various modifications are possible within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, while processes and blocks are shown in a particular order, various implementations may perform routines or use systems having blocks in a different order, and some processes or blocks may be deleted, supplemented, added, moved, separated, combined, and / or modified to provide different combinations or subcombinations. Each of these processes or blocks may be implemented in a variety of alternative ways. Also, while processes or blocks may be shown as being performed sequentially, these processes or blocks may instead be performed or implemented in parallel or may be performed at different times. The results of a process or block may be persisted in a non-persistent store as a way to increase throughput and reduce processing requirements.

Claims

1. 1. A method for generating nanobubbles or nanodroplets at ambient conditions, said method comprising: providing a volume for containing a liquid; dispersing a medium within the liquid, the medium being provided to the volume at ambient conditions; generating an electrostatic field using an electrode proximate to the volume to promote the generation of the nanobubbles or nanodroplets; the nanobubbles or nanodroplets are generated as a result of applying the electrostatic field to the liquid and the medium; The method wherein the electrodes and the liquid are not in direct electrical contact to prevent electrolysis from occurring within the volume.

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the ambient conditions include a temperature in the range of 0° C. to 30° C.

3. Ambient conditions are 0 N / m ２ ~2 x 10 ５ N / m ２ 3. The method of claim 1 or 2, comprising a pressure in the range of

4. The method of any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising providing a magnetic field in the vicinity of the volume.

5. The magnetic field is 0.5 kg －２ A －１ ~2kg －２ A －１ 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the magnetic flux density is in the range of

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the medium is a gas medium.

7. The gas medium is a mixture of two or more gases, or The method of claim 6 , comprising a mixture of two or more gases, at least one of the gases being enriched.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the medium is a liquid medium.

9. The liquid medium is a mixture of two or more liquid components, or 10. The method of claim 8, comprising a mixture of two or more liquid components, at least one of the liquids being concentrated.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the liquid is an aqueous liquid.

11. The method of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the liquid comprises deionized water.

12. A method according to any preceding claim, further comprising applying cooling means to cool the contents of the volume.

13. The method of claim 12 , wherein the cooling means circulates a coolant in the vicinity of the volume.

14. The method of any one of claims 1 to 13, further comprising evacuating the volume.

15. 13. The method of claim 12, further comprising agitating the contents of the volume.

16. 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the agitation is provided by a rocking motion.

17. The method of any one of claims 1 to 16, further comprising sensing temperature and / or sensing pressure.

18. The volume of liquid is about 20 cm ３ The method according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein

19. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a pressure of up to 100 bar is applied to the volume.

20. 20. The method of any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein a DC voltage of about 30 V is applied to the electrodes.

21. 21. The method of any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein an acoustic signal is applied to eject the nanobubbles or nanodroplets from the liquid.

22. 21. The method of any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein a magnetic signal is applied to eject the nanobubbles or nanodroplets from the liquid.

23. 21. The method of any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the volume is cooled to a predetermined level to promote storage of the nanobubbles or nanodroplets within the body of liquid.

24. 1. A generator for generating nanobubbles or nanodroplets at ambient conditions, said generator comprising: a volume for containing a liquid; 1. A generator comprising: a source for supplying a medium to be dispersed in the liquid, the medium being provided to the volume at ambient conditions; and an electrode for generating an electrostatic field in the vicinity of the volume to promote generation of the nanobubbles or nanodroplets, the nanobubbles or nanodroplets being generated as a result of application of the electrostatic field to the liquid and the medium, the electrode and the liquid not being in direct electrical contact to avoid electrolysis.

25. 25. The generator of claim 24, wherein the source comprises a gas source for supplying a gas medium.

26. 25. The generator of claim 24, wherein the source comprises a liquid source for supplying a liquid medium.

27. A generator according to any one of claims 24 to 26, wherein the electrodes are configured to provide an electrostatic field.

28. 28. A generator as claimed in any one of claims 24 to 27, wherein the electrodes comprise foils operatively connected to a voltage supply, the foils being laminated such that the foil and the liquid are not in direct electrical contact.

29. 30. The generator of claim 28, wherein the foil is folded into a spirally wound configuration.

30. 28. The generator of any one of claims 24 to 27, comprising a plurality of electrodes arranged in a cascade configuration, each electrode of said plurality of electrodes being disposed at an angle to a wall of said volume.

31. A generator according to any one of claims 24 to 30, wherein at least one magnet is mounted proximate to the generator.

32. The magnet weighs 0.5 kg －２ A －１ ~2kg －２ A －１ 32. The generator of claim 31 , providing a magnetic flux density in the range of

33. A generator according to any one of claims 24 to 32, wherein the generator further comprises cooling means for cooling the contents of the volume.

34. 34. The generator of claim 33, wherein the cooling means is configured to circulate a coolant in the vicinity of the volume.

35. 35. The generator of claim 34, wherein at least a portion of the generator defines a passageway for containing the coolant therein.

36. A generator as claimed in any one of claims 24 to 35, further comprising vacuum means for evacuating the volume.

37. A generator as claimed in any one of claims 24 to 36, further comprising stirring means for stirring the contents of the volume.

38. 38. The generator of claim 37, wherein the agitating means comprises a mechanical agitator.

39. A generator according to any one of claims 24 to 38, wherein the electrodes comprise a cathode and an anode.

40. 40. The generator of claim 39, wherein said cathode and anode are prevented from direct electrical contact with said contents of said volume to prevent electrolysis from occurring within said volume.

41. 41. The generator of claim 40, wherein the cathode and anode are coated with an electrically insulating coating.

42. 41. The generator of claim 39 or 40, wherein the cathode and anode are arranged in a parallel configuration to provide an electrostatic field having a strength that is inversely proportional to the distance between the cathode and anode.

43. A generator according to any one of claims 24 to 42, wherein the electrodes comprise a plurality of anodes and a plurality of cathodes.

44. 44. The generator of claim 43, wherein the electrodes comprise a mesh configuration.

45. 45. The generator of claim 43 or 44, wherein the electrode comprises a plurality of mesh elements.

46. A generator according to any one of claims 43 to 45, wherein the plurality of anodes and the plurality of cathodes are arranged in a parallel configuration.

47. 47. The generator of claim 46, wherein each mesh element includes an opening for receiving a portion of the delivery mechanism therein.

48. 48. The generator of claim 47, wherein the delivery mechanism includes an elongated tubular member for extending through the opening in the mesh element.

49. 49. The generator of claim 48, wherein said tubular member is operably mounted on a base member.

50. A generator as claimed in any one of claims 47 to 49, wherein the delivery mechanism comprises a plurality of outlets for facilitating dispersion of the medium within the volume.

51. 51. The generator of claim 50, wherein the outlet is sized to receive the medium therethrough but to prevent ingress of the liquid from the volume.

52. 25. The generator of claim 24, wherein the electrode is configured as a series of concentric elements.

53. 53. The generator of claim 52, wherein the concentric elements can be configured such that each element comprises a contacting cathode and anode.

54. 54. The generator of any one of claims 24 to 53, further comprising a concentrator for concentrating the medium.

55. 55. The generator of any one of claims 24 to 54, further comprising a storage volume for storing the nanobubbles or nanodroplets in a temperature controlled environment.

56. 56. The generator of claim 55, wherein the nanobubbles or nanodroplets are frozen for ease of storage.

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