Portable system for oxygen generation

Abstract

A portable oxygen generation system is provided that includes a reaction chamber, a supply system for supplying and controlling a hydrogen peroxide solution to the reaction chamber, and a cooling / condensing system for cooling the hot oxygen and water vapor leaving the reactor and condensing away the water. The portable chemical oxygen generation system produces breathable, humidified oxygen that is substantially free of hydrogen peroxide and other contaminants at a controlled flow rate and temperature for extended periods of time.

Description

Technical Field

[0005] , , , , ,

[0004] ,

[0003] , , ,

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 828,475, filed on April 3, 2019.

[0002] This disclosure is in the field of oxygen generation, methods of generating oxygen, and chemical oxygen generators. More specifically, the present disclosure provides a portable chemical oxygen generator that supplies high - purity oxygen suitable for breathing. The present disclosure also provides an apparatus / system for performing low - energy condensation of (water) vapor, for example, when removing by - product water of oxygen generation.

Background Art

[0003] Oxygen is an essential element in medical treatments. These treatments can be chronic or acute. Oxygen supplementation can be life - saving in emergency situations, but the burden of supplying oxygen during transportation and in remote areas is significant in terms of cost, transportation, and materials.

[0004] Oxygen cylinders are heavy and pose many potential hazards such as combustion, explosion, and ejection risks. Liquid oxygen systems supply large amounts of gas in a smaller footprint, but are heavy, discharge gas over a long period of time, and pose a risk of burning if handled inappropriately. In addition, the output of both of these oxygen systems is limited and needs to be refilled. As a result, they present transportation problems in far - forward military operations. In many emergency situations such as military and mass - casualty operations, a simpler, lighter, and longer - lasting oxygen transportation system is needed.

[0005] As solutions, portable oxygen concentrators (POCs) and chemical oxygen generators (COGs) have been proposed. A POC (sometimes called an oxygen concentrator) draws air from the environment (which typically contains about 21% oxygen), extracts nitrogen, and supplies oxygen at a concentration of up to 90-95%. Portable units typically produce at a maximum rate of 6 liters / minute, while larger (non-portable) devices produce at a maximum rate of 25 liters / minute. All of these devices are electrically operated and require a constant power source. Therefore, a power failure will disrupt the oxygen supply and continue until a backup generator (or battery backup and power inverter) becomes available. In addition, the gas supplied by portable units is at a low flow rate and low pressure, which limits their use in many emergency situations.

[0006] Chemical oxygen generation was first proposed by Joseph Priestly, who discovered oxygen in his research using mercury oxide. Priestly published his discovery in 1775. In 1902, The Lancet reported on Kamm's invention of an oxygen generator for medical use. This device, using chlorate as the oxygen source and heated by an alcohol lamp, produced nearly four cubic feet of oxygen before the components needed to be replenished. Chlorate candles are used as an emergency oxygen source, for example, in submarines. However, the oxygen generation reaction of chlorate candles is extremely hot (about 700-800°C), and therefore can be very dangerous.

[0007] In long-range military operations, as well as in disaster and mass casualty scenarios, the use of POCs and COGs has been proposed as alternatives to liquid and pressurized gaseous oxygen systems due to the transportation problems, weight, and explosion risks associated with these systems. Evaluations of currently available technologies indicate that COGs can only operate for less than 30 minutes, depending on the manufacturer and design, and their output is not adjustable, making them unsuitable for continuous clinical care or long-term operation. Furthermore, COGs may have insufficient oxygen flow rates for many emergency uses.

[0008] Recently, there has been interest in using this technology in areas where supplying oxygen in cylinders or liquid form is difficult or very economically impractical (e.g., combat casualty care, during disaster situations, and in extreme rural environments in developing countries). Military and mass casualty operations require simpler, lighter, and longer-lasting oxygen delivery systems.

[0009] The FDA mandates that COGs must supply a minimum oxygen flow rate of 6 L / min for a minimum of 15 minutes (21 CFR Part 868.5440). However, the U.S. Army requires a higher output, with systems supplying 8 L / min for at least 20 minutes. This represents a 75% increase in total O2 output, a level unattainable with available COGs. Portable on-demand oxygen generators have long been needed. [Overview of the Initiative]

[0010] This disclosure provides a chemical oxygen generation system for producing breathable, humidified oxygen that is substantially free of hydrogen peroxide and other contaminants, at a controlled flow rate and temperature for extended periods. In one embodiment, the chemical oxygen generation system can generate oxygen at a constant flow rate of over 8 L / min and up to 15 L / min for more than 30 minutes at a temperature below 40°C.

[0011] In one embodiment, the portable oxygen generation system includes a reaction chamber, a supply system for supplying and controlling a hydrogen peroxide solution to the reaction chamber, and a cooling / condensing system for cooling the high-temperature oxygen and water vapor leaving the reactor and condensing and removing the water. The reaction chamber includes a catalyst that promotes the chemical decomposition of hydrogen peroxide into oxygen and water, an inlet for introducing a hydrogen peroxide solution into the reaction chamber, and an outlet for releasing oxygen and water vapor from the reaction chamber. The hydrogen peroxide supply system includes a hydrogen peroxide reservoir containing an aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution and a supply flow regulator for controlling the rate at which the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution is added to the reaction chamber. The cooling system includes a condenser with an inlet for receiving oxygen and water vapor, and two or more drain pipes, each drain pipe configured to drain water condensed from water vapor within the cooling system, and an outlet for releasing cooled oxygen gas with reduced water vapor.

[0012] One aspect of this disclosure is to provide a portable oxygen generating device, which is a. At least one storage container for holding a hydrogen peroxide solution, b. One or more reaction chambers containing catalysts for reacting a hydrogen solution to produce oxygen and water vapor, c. A supply system for supplying hydrogen peroxide from a storage container to a reactor(s), d. A system for cooling and condensing the reactor outlet while maintaining fluid contact, and for removing the condensed liquid water. e. Optionally, a dryer located between the reactor and the cooling system to remove some of the water from the oxygen stream, f. Optionally, a drive system for moving liquid water to a storage tank, g. Optionally, a hydrophobic membrane for removing water at the oxygen outlet of the cooling system, h. Optionally, an oxygen flow regulator for adjusting the oxygen flow rate at the hydrophobic membrane outlet.

[0013] The cooling system may be an open system operably positioned between the reactor outlet and the hydrophobic membrane (filter). The cooling system is configured to cool the oxygen gas flowing between the reactor and the filter.

[0014] Another embodiment is to provide a device, as described above, wherein the storage device is configured to hold hydrogen peroxide, a hydrogen peroxide complex, or a hydrogen peroxide solution.

[0015] Another embodiment provides a device as described above, wherein the hydrogen peroxide solution is at least 15% hydrogen peroxide or at least 20% hydrogen peroxide. The storage container may be a cartridge that is detachably connected to the supply system. The cartridge may be configured to be immediately replaceable when the hydrogen peroxide solution is depleted.

[0016] Another embodiment is the device described above, which provides a system that can be quickly attached to a supply system by a cartridge mounting system. The cartridge may be foldable, or may have a foldable liner, or may have a hard surface or a soft surface.

[0017] Another embodiment is the device described above, wherein the supply unit is configured to generate pressure on a cartridge having a soft surface. The pressure may be generated by a spring, a piston, or pneumatic pressure. In addition to or instead of thereto, the supply system may include a pump, for example, selected from positive displacement pumps, peristaltic pumps, syringe pumps, piston pumps, plunger pumps, screw pumps, and reciprocating pumps.

[0018] Another embodiment provides a device, as described above, wherein the reactor is configured to decompose hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen. The reactor contains a catalyst that facilitates the chemical decomposition of hydrogen peroxide into oxygen and water. The catalyst may contain one or more active compounds selected from metals, metalloids, metal alloys, metalloid alloys, metal compounds, and metalloid compounds. The catalyst may further contain electronegative elements.

[0019] Another embodiment is to provide a device as described above, wherein the device optionally further includes a catalytic filter. The catalytic filter, if present, may include at least one catalyst, the catalyst comprising one or more active compounds selected from the group consisting of metals, metalloids, alloys of metals, alloys of metalloids, compounds of metals, and compounds of metalloids. The catalytic filter may include the same catalyst(s) as a reactor, or it may include different catalysts.

[0020] Another embodiment is the device described above, wherein the cooling system includes a heatsink. The cooling system may further include at least one fan to facilitate the removal of heat from the cooling system. The fan may be a fan.

[0021] Another embodiment is a device described in any of the above, wherein the cooling system includes a condenser. The cooling system including the condenser is configured to facilitate the discharge of liquid water condensed by the cooling system. The discharge system may be configured to discharge the condensed water from at least one point along the cooling system.

[0022] Another embodiment provides a device as described above, wherein condensate is discharged immediately and continuously. The cooling system may further include a container for collecting condensate.

[0023] Another aspect is a device as shown in any of the foregoing, wherein the hydrophobic membrane is composed of a material selected from one or more of the group consisting of acrylic copolymers, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF), polysulfone, and polycarbonate.

[0024] Another aspect is a device as shown in any of the foregoing, wherein the oxygen flow regulator is a thermal / mass oxygen (O2) flow meter configured for real-time flow measurement.

[0025] Another aspect is a device as shown in any of the foregoing, wherein the device further includes an electronic control and display unit, and the electronic control and display unit includes one or more of the following. a. Unit sensor, b. Unit control, c. Unit alarm, d. Unit feedback circuit.

[0026] The control unit may be based on a specified printed circuit board.

[0027] Another aspect is a device as shown in any of the foregoing, wherein the unit sensor is configured to measure at least one parameter selected from the group consisting of user-set O2 flow rate, outlet O2 flow rate, outlet O2 temperature, battery capacity, H2O2 storage level, reaction chamber pressure, and / or water tank capacity (e.g., weight).

[0028] Another aspect is a device as shown in any of the foregoing, wherein the unit control is configured to control at least one parameter selected from the group consisting of peristaltic pump RPM, cooling fan speed, and water tank drain solenoid. The control unit may also include a feedback circuit for one or more of the parameters disclosed in any of the foregoing.

[0029] Another embodiment is to provide a device as described above, wherein the control unit is configured to issue an alarm in one or more of the following cases: a. Low H2O2 storage, b. Low battery, c. High water tank level, d. High device pressure, e. Oxygen purity, f. Device maintenance.

[0030] Another embodiment provides a device as described above, wherein the control unit further includes a data logger, and the data logger is configured to record the status of the device. The control unit may be configured to communicate with an external system, the chosen communication being characterized as follows: a. Transferring recorded data to an external system. b. Receiving treatment protocols from an external system.

[0031] Another embodiment is to provide a device powered by a battery unit, for example, the battery may be 12-18V / 4-5Ah and rechargeable.

[0032] Another embodiment is to provide a device as described above, wherein the device further includes a biofeedback sensor. The biofeedback sensor may be configured to detect the peripheral blood O2 saturation level in a patient. The sensor may be configured to communicate with a control unit disclosed above. For example, the sensor and control unit may be configured to issue an alarm in the event of a low or high patient O2 saturation level.

[0033] One aspect of this disclosure is to provide a method for generating oxygen, the method being: a. A step of mixing the hydrogen peroxide solution with the catalyst, b. A step of cooling oxygen and water vapor, c. A step of discharging liquid water, wherein the water has condensed from water vapor, d. Optionally, a step of filtering out oxygen and removing water, e. Optionally, the step of passing oxygen through a flow regulator.

[0034] Another embodiment is to provide a method which is any of the methods described above, the method further comprising the step of controlling the flow rate of hydrogen peroxide solution into the reactor.

[0035] Another embodiment is to provide a method which is any of the methods described above, the method further comprising passing oxygen and water vapor through an optional catalytic filter.

[0036] Another embodiment provides a method, as described in any of the preceding descriptions, which includes the step of cooling oxygen and water vapor using a cooling and / or condensing unit, wherein the cooling is provided at least in part by generating an airflow (the air is generated by a fan) over at least a portion of the cooling and / or condensing unit.

[0037] Another embodiment is to provide a method which is any of the methods described above, the method further comprising the step of analyzing the oxygen flow rate and oxygen temperature from the cooling system.

[0038] Another aspect is a method as described above, further comprising the step of alerting the user in the event of one or more of the following: low H2O2 storage, low battery, high system pressure, high water tank level, oxygen purity, and / or low patient O2 saturation level.

[0039] Another embodiment is the method described in any of the preceding descriptions, and this method further, a. The step of supplying oxygen to the patient, or b. To provide a method that includes the step of storing oxygen.

[0040] Another aspect is to provide a method that is one of the methods described above, the method further comprising the step of detecting the O2 saturation level in the patient.

[0041] Another aspect is to provide a method which is one of the methods described above, the method further comprising one or more of the following: a. Recording data from the device. b. Recording patient data, c. Transferring data to an external system.

[0042] Another aspect provides a method as described in any of the preceding descriptions, the method further comprising the step of adjusting the oxygen flow rate, the adjustment being controlled by adjusting at least one parameter selected from the group consisting of the flow rate of hydrogen peroxide solution into the reactor and the flow rate through a flow regulator, the flow rate adjustment being determined by at least one parameter selected from the group consisting of system pressure, reactor pressure, oxygen flow rate, and patient O2 saturation level. Another aspect provides a method as described in any of the preceding descriptions, the step of adjusting the oxygen flow rate comprising the step of measuring the oxygen flow rate. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0043] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram of the portable chemical oxygen generator described herein. [Figure 2] This figure shows an embodiment of a portable chemical oxygen generator according to the present disclosure. [Figure 3] This figure shows an embodiment of the cooling system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 4] This figure shows an embodiment of the heat sink system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 5]Figure A shows an embodiment of the cooling enclosure of the cooling system according to the present disclosure. Figure B shows an embodiment of the cooling enclosure of the cooling system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 6] This figure shows an embodiment of the cooling system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 7] This figure shows an embodiment of a portable chemical oxygen generator according to the present disclosure. [Figure 8] This diagram shows the effect of gas flow rate on the liquid discharged from each outlet. [Figure 9] This figure shows the effect of gas flow rate on the temperature of the discharged liquid. [Figure 10] This figure shows the effect of gas flow rate on the heat released by the cooling system. [Figure 11] This figure shows the effect of gas flow rate and catalyst amount on the discharged liquid. [Figure 12] This figure shows the effect of gas flow rate and catalyst amount on the temperature of the discharged liquid. [Figure 13] This figure shows the effect of gas flow rate and catalyst amount on heat release. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0044] The chemical oxygen generator described herein is a device that produces oxygen through a chemical reaction. Chemical oxygen generators are important for supplying emergency oxygen in situations where oxygen tanks or other methods such as electrolysis are not feasible.

[0045] Chemical oxygen generators are used to supplement the oxygen in a patient's inhaled air and increase its concentration. Such gaseous oxygen can indicate the need for oxygen supplementation in many cases, such as impaired blood circulation (e.g., due to illness or injury), respiratory distress, decreased lung function, and altitude sickness. Hypoxemia (insufficient oxygen in the blood) is a common complication of acute lower respiratory tract infections (e.g., pneumonia caused by bacteria (Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae) and viruses (Syntitis pneumoniae, influenza virus, coronavirus)) and is a strong risk factor for death.

[0046] Other potential applications include any location where a compact, portable oxygen generator is needed, such as in military operations and in Third World clinics. Chemical oxygen generators may also be used in submarines, aircraft, and by firefighters and mine rescue teams.

[0047] Advantageously, the chemical oxygen generator described herein is compact and portable, yet highly reliable and easy to operate. This chemical oxygen generator provides controlled oxygen flow and temperature over extended periods. The user can control the oxygen flow to distribute oxygen gas from 0 L / min to a maximum of approximately 8 L / min, or to a maximum of approximately 10 L / min, or to a maximum of approximately 15 L / min.

[0048] The device can generate a sustained, controllable flow rate of breathable oxygen that is substantially free of hydrogen peroxide and other contaminants. The term “substantially free,” as used herein, means that the concentration of hydrogen peroxide or other contaminants is below medically acceptable levels and therefore does not pose a risk of injury or discomfort to the patient. For example, the chemical oxygen generator disclosed herein supplies a patient with an oxygen stream containing less than approximately 1 ppm of hydrogen peroxide or less than approximately 0.5 ppm of hydrogen peroxide. In some embodiments, the device can generate a constant flow rate of oxygen at a maximum of approximately 8 L / min, or up to approximately 10 L / min, or up to approximately 15 L / min, at a temperature below approximately 40°C for more than approximately 30 minutes.

[0049] Importantly, the oxygen stream supplied by the chemical oxygen generators disclosed herein is humidified, eliminating the need for an external humidifier. Humidified oxygen improves patient comfort and safety. Increasing oxygen flow rates without proper humidification can dry out the nasal or oral mucosa, potentially leading to bleeding and, in some cases, airway obstruction. Humidifying the supplied oxygen is crucial for patients with nasopharyngeal catheters, endotracheal tubes, or tracheostomies to keep secretions thin and avoid mucus plugs. Endotracheal tube obstruction resulting from inadequate humidification of the supplied oxygen has been reported as a cause of many unnecessary deaths in hospitals. The chemical oxygen generators disclosed herein address these concerns by supplying a humidified oxygen stream.

[0050] Because the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide is highly exothermic, the oxygen produced in the reaction chamber can reach temperatures exceeding 90°C, sometimes as high as approximately 98°C, making it too hot to distribute to a patient. With the chemical oxygen generator described herein, oxygen is delivered from the device, typically via flexible tubing to the patient, at a temperature suitable for comfortable breathing (i.e., below approximately 40°C). Advantageously, the oxygen leaving the device is only about 10°C above ambient temperature (e.g., room temperature), or about 8°C above ambient temperature, or about 6°C above ambient temperature.

[0051] The portable oxygen generation system includes a reaction chamber, a supply system for supplying and controlling a hydrogen peroxide solution to the reaction chamber, and a cooling / condensing system for cooling the high-temperature oxygen and water vapor leaving the reactor and for condensing and removing water. The reaction chamber includes a catalyst that promotes the chemical decomposition of hydrogen peroxide into oxygen and water, an inlet for introducing a hydrogen peroxide solution into the reaction chamber, and an outlet for releasing oxygen and water vapor from the reaction chamber. The hydrogen peroxide supply system includes a hydrogen peroxide reservoir containing an aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution and a supply flow regulator for controlling the rate at which the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution is added into the reaction chamber. The cooling system includes an inlet for receiving oxygen and water vapor, a condenser including two or more drain pipes, each drain pipe configured to drain water condensed from water vapor within the cooling system, and an outlet for releasing cooled oxygen gas with reduced water vapor. oxygen source

[0052] The oxygen source for chemically generating oxygen is either hydrogen peroxide or an adduct or complex of hydrogen peroxide. For use as an oxygen source in the chemical reactions in the devices described herein, an aqueous solution of hydrogen peroxide is preferred.

[0053] The general reactions for the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide used in the reactor to form oxygen gas are as follows: 2H2O2 → O2 + 2H2O

[0054] Hydrogen peroxide is generally available as an aqueous solution, with concentrations ranging from 3% to a maximum of 70%. The concentration of H2O2 is preferably at least 20%, and may be about 30% to about 70%. catalyst

[0055] The reaction chamber contains a catalyst that promotes the exothermic decomposition of hydrogen peroxide. The catalyst may include metals, metalloids, metal alloys, metalloid alloys, metal compounds, such as metal oxides and metalloid compounds, or mixtures thereof. The catalyst may also include transition metal oxides, such as MnO2, PbO2, Co3O4, V2O5, KMnO4, silver-based catalysts, Ni-based catalysts, Fe-based catalysts, Pt-based catalysts, and Pd-based catalysts. The metal catalyst may include one or more of silver, gold, zinc, platinum, palladium, or other metal catalysts. Alternatively, an acid may be used to catalytically catalyze the reaction.

[0056] When a solid heterogeneous catalyst is used (i.e., a catalyst insoluble in water), oxygen is generated on the surface of the catalyst. The solid heterogeneous catalyst may be selected from the catalysts listed above that are not soluble in water. The advantage of a solid heterogeneous catalyst is that it can be reused many times with fresh hydrogen peroxide, thus maintaining high efficiency.

[0057] The catalyst may be in powder or granular form. Powdered catalysts may exhibit relatively faster kinetics due to their larger surface area. However, granular catalysts may be more convenient for handling and reuse. While the high surface area of ​​powdered catalysts helps ensure rapid decomposition of hydrogen peroxide, the fine powder can cause problems in retaining the catalyst within the reaction chamber.

[0058] The catalyst may be in the form of granular material, for example, with a diameter of about 0.5 mm to about 5 mm. The catalyst granules may contain one or more of the following: metals, metalloids, metal alloys, metalloid alloys, metal compounds, or metalloid compounds. The granules may further contain one or more binder materials.

[0059] The catalyst may be dispersed or coated onto the surface or matrix of a solid support material. Alternatively, the catalyst may be impregnated into an inert matrix material or binder.

[0060] The catalyst may include a porous matrix (for example, a porous scaffold structure for depositing catalyst nanoparticles). The porous matrix or scaffold structure can be formed from many suitable materials or combinations of materials. Non-limiting examples of suitable materials include organic or inorganic materials, such as resins, polymers, metals, glass, ceramics, activated carbon, textiles, or combinations thereof.

[0061] The porous matrix or scaffold structure may be formed from a polymer sponge. The polymer matrix / support should be selected from a material that can withstand high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide and high temperatures in the reactor, and may include, for example, polycarbonate, PVC, or high-density polyethylene. The porous scaffold structure may also be formed by synthesis using the poly-high internal phase emulsion (polyHIPE) method. Polymerization of the continuous phase of HIPE forms a porous polymer monolith (referred to as polyHIPE). PolyHIPE is highly porous, with void sizes of approximately 10-100 μm.

[0062] In some embodiments, the porous scaffold structure may be formed from particulate porous material. For example, the porous scaffold structure may be formed by bonding together granules of a porous material (representing the support for the porous scaffold structure). Various particulate porous materials may be used. For example, without limitation, activated carbon, polymer beads, silica sand, zirconia, alumina, anthracite, etc.

[0063] Several variable factors can affect the oxygen release rate. For example, these include the rate of hydrogen peroxide addition, the temperature of the reaction chamber, and the amount of catalyst in contact with the hydrogen peroxide solution. The catalyst may be eliminated as a variable factor by ensuring that an excess of catalyst is present in the reaction chamber relative to the hydrogen peroxide introduced into it. Once the reaction is carried out, the temperature of the reaction chamber is maintained at approximately 90°C or higher, and at a maximum of approximately 98°C, during which time oxygen is produced. With a sufficient amount of solid catalyst (e.g., manganese dioxide) present in the reaction chamber, the rate of oxygen production may be controlled by the rate at which aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution is added to the reaction chamber. Thus, one embodiment is to produce oxygen at a controllable and selective constant rate. H2O2 storage

[0064] The storage container holds the hydrogen peroxide solution. The storage container is made of an inert, non-reactive material (e.g., stainless steel or polymer / plastic). The storage container may be a single-use or disposable container, or it may be refillable. The storage container may be a cartridge that holds the hydrogen peroxide solution supplied into the reaction chamber by a supply flow regulator. In some embodiments, the storage container is part of the system and is refilled from another container.

[0065] The reservoir can have hard or soft surfaces. In some embodiments, the reservoir may be configured like a "syringe," that is, consisting of a barrel and a plunger (or piston).

[0066] In some embodiments, the storage container is a canister capable of holding enough aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution to maintain a steady flow of oxygen at an oxygen flow rate of about 8 L / min, or about 10 L / min, or about 15 L / min for at least about 20 minutes, or at least about 30 minutes. The concentration of hydrogen peroxide is at least about 15%, or at least about 20%. The concentration of hydrogen peroxide may be about 30% to about 70%. The hydrogen peroxide storage container may hold about 500 ml to about 4000 ml of hydrogen peroxide solution, or about 1000 ml to about 3000 ml of hydrogen peroxide solution. Supply flow regulator

[0067] To maintain a desired oxygen flow, the user may control the rate at which the hydrogen peroxide solution is supplied to the reaction chamber by the supply system. In some embodiments, the supply flow regulator includes a pump that controls the flow rate of the hydrogen peroxide solution into the reactor. The pump may be any suitable pumping unit known in the art, for example, a positive displacement pump, a peristaltic pump, a syringe pump, a piston pump, a plunger pump, a screw pump, or a reciprocating pump, without limitation. In some embodiments, the reservoir may be foldable, and the supply unit is configured to push the hydrogen peroxide solution into the reactor by applying pressure to the reservoir. In some embodiments, the supply unit acts as a reciprocating pump, with the reservoir forming part of the pump. reactor

[0068] The reaction chamber includes a pressure-resistant housing for the chemical decomposition of an oxygen source (typically hydrogen peroxide as an aqueous solution). The reaction chamber also includes a catalyst to facilitate the chemical decomposition of hydrogen peroxide into oxygen and water, an inlet for introducing the hydrogen peroxide solution into the reaction chamber, and an outlet for releasing oxygen and water vapor from the reaction chamber.

[0069] The reaction chamber may optionally include an overpressure valve to prevent housing rupture, for example, if the oxygen outlet is blocked. The pressure valve may be configured to regulate the pressure within the reaction chamber by releasing excess gas and / or by regulating the feed solution flow rate. The flow rate regulation by the pressure valve may be done directly or by a control unit.

[0070] The reactor outlet may optionally include a filter or mesh that serves to maintain the catalyst within the reaction chamber. Such a filter or mesh may be particularly useful when the catalyst is a powder with small particle size.

[0071] The reaction chamber is constructed of an inert, non-reactive material capable of withstanding temperatures of at least 100°C. The reactor may be constructed of an inert / non-reactive metal or metal alloy (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel, nickel alloy, such as Inconel). Alternatively, the reaction chamber may be constructed of an inert / non-reactive polymer material. In this context, an inert or non-reactive material is one that does not degrade under reaction conditions. However, in some embodiments, the material selected for the reaction chamber and in contact with hydrogen peroxide may catalytically catalyze the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide.

[0072] An aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution enters the reactor from the supply unit through at least one opening or inlet (e.g., a nozzle or spray nozzle). The solution mixes with the catalyst and rapidly decomposes H2O2 into H2O and O2. The reaction is exothermic and reaches a sustained temperature of over 90°C, up to about 98°C. Thus, water in the reactor evaporates into vapor. The gas produced by the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide flows out of the reactor through the reactor outlet. Optionally, the reaction chamber may include a drain pipe that can remove any accumulated liquid water. The flow rate of gaseous reaction products (O2, H2O) leaving the reaction chamber is directly proportional to the rate at which the hydrogen peroxide solution is pumped into the reactor. Catalytic filter

[0073] The reactions exit the reaction chamber consist of reaction products, oxygen, and water vapor, and in some embodiments, some unreacted liquid or gaseous hydrogen peroxide. If some hydrogen peroxide exits the reaction chamber, the oxygen generator may optionally include a secondary reactor (called a catalytic filter) to decompose the remaining hydrogen peroxide.

[0074] The catalytic filter is configured to decompose any hydrogen peroxide that has evaporated or distilled out of the reaction chamber by the decomposition reaction. The catalytic filter contains one or more catalysts that promote the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide into oxygen and water, as described above. The catalytic filter may contain the same catalyst as the reactor or a different catalyst. The gas stream exiting the catalytic filter may be substantially free of hydrogen peroxide, and therefore the amount of hydrogen peroxide in the exiting gas stream is below medically acceptable levels. Cooling unit / condenser

[0075] This disclosure provides a cooling unit or system for cooling and separating gas mixtures. While the cooling system is described as being used to cool and separate water from oxygen gas, the cooling system may be adapted to cool and separate other mixtures.

[0076] The high-temperature mixture entering the cooling unit contains a mixture of at least two components: a low-boiling point component and a high-boiling point component. In the case of an oxygen generator, the low-boiling point component is oxygen and the high-boiling point component is water. High-temperature vapor flows into the condensing / cooling unit. The condensing / cooling unit includes an enclosure. The enclosure is configured to convert the condensable vapor into a liquid by containing and cooling the gas / vapor mixture. In some embodiments, the enclosure is piping or tubing. The condensing enclosure includes at least one drain pipe, preferably multiple drain pipes, along the entire length of the unit, which can separate the condensed liquid from the gas flow and discharge it into a tank. In some embodiments, the cooling enclosure includes multiple drain pipes, which can discharge the condensed liquid along the entire length of the cooling unit, and the liquid can be separated by rapid and continuous discharge.

[0077] In the oxygen generators described herein, the hot gas exiting the reaction chamber or catalytic filter (if present) is sent into a cooling unit. The gas flow entering the cooling unit can be over 90°C and up to 98°C, making it too hot to distribute to the patient. The cooling unit cools the gas flow to a temperature suitable for comfortable breathing, i.e., below 40°C.

[0078] The cooling unit is configured to cool a gas flow, condense water vapor into liquid water, and remove the liquid water. The cooling unit can separate the liquid water from the gas flow and discharge it into a storage tank. In some embodiments, the cooling unit can rapidly and continuously discharge the liquid water by discharging it along the entire length of the cooling unit. This system rapidly removes the condensed water (which may be hot) when condensation occurs. By removing water from the system along the entire length of the cooling enclosure, the cooling capacity of the cooling system can be directed to efficiently cool the oxygen gas flow without needing to fully cool the condensed water. This arrangement increases cooling efficiency by directing the cooling capacity of the cooling system to cool a smaller amount of oxygen flow.

[0079] In one embodiment, the cooling enclosure is formed in the longitudinal section of pipes connected by U-bends. When the device is operating, the lower U-bend of the cooling system is positioned horizontally, with a drain at the lowest point along the pipe, so that gravity assists in the continuous discharge of condensed liquid water from the cooling system. Alternatively, the cooling enclosure may include pipes containing a gas flow in the form of horizontal coils, with drains located along the lowest point for each coil rotation. The cooling enclosure may be incorporated into a heat sink and / or have cooling fins along the outside of the enclosure. A cooling fluid may be directed through the cooling enclosure to help remove heat from it. The cooling fluid may be a liquid or a gas, and in some embodiments, it is a flow of cooling air.

[0080] In a preferred embodiment, the cooling system is an active air cooling system. A fan may be used as the active component of the cooling system. Cooling air is generated around the enclosure by the fan, cooling the body of the enclosure. The cooled oxygen exits the condensing enclosure through an exhaust / outlet pipe. Advantageously, the oxygen exiting the cooling system is no more than approximately 10°C above the ambient temperature, no more than approximately 8°C above the ambient temperature, or no more than approximately 6°C above the ambient temperature. Hydrophobic film

[0081] In this embodiment, moist oxygen gas exiting the cooling system passes through a hydrophobic membrane, filtering out trace amounts of water. The presence of liquid water can impair the accuracy of oxygen flow measurement. The hydrophobic membrane is a microporous membrane made of a polymer material. The hydrophobic membrane may be made of any material known in the art for this purpose, such as acrylic copolymers, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), polysulfone, and polycarbonate. Commercially available vents with hydrophobic membranes may also be used for this purpose.

[0082] In embodiments, the dryer may be positioned between the reaction chamber or catalytic filter (if present) and the cooling system. The dryer includes a hydrophobic membrane and works to remove some of the water from the gas flow before it enters the cooling system. The dryer may remove up to about 90% of the water from the gas flow or about 70% to about 90% of the water from the gas flow. By removing some of the water before the gas flow enters the cooling system, the efficiency of the cooling system can be increased. The hydrophobic membrane is a microporous membrane of a polymer material and may be composed of any material known in the art for this purpose. For example, acrylic copolymers, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF).

[0083] Figure 1 schematically shows the basic unit 10 of an embodiment of a chemical oxygen generator. The reservoir 11 holds a hydrogen peroxide solution. The reservoir can be discarded after one use or it can be refillable. In some embodiments, the reservoir is a cartridge that holds the solution supplied to the system. In some embodiments, the reservoir is part of the system and is refilled from another container. The reservoir can have a hard or soft surface. The reservoir is made of an inert, non-reactive, pharmaceutical-grade material. In some embodiments, the reservoir retracts like a "syringe," i.e., it consists of a barrel and a plunger (or piston). In some embodiments, the reservoir is a canister that can hold an aqueous solution of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). The hydrogen peroxide content is at least 20%, and in some embodiments, 30-70%.

[0084] The supply unit 12 controls the flow rate of hydrogen peroxide solution into the reactor. In some embodiments, the supply unit is a pump. The pump can be, for example, a positive displacement pump, a peristaltic pump, a syringe pump, a piston pump, a plunger pump, a screw pump, or a reciprocating pump. In some embodiments, a storage unit 11 The unit is foldable, and the supply unit is configured to push the hydrogen peroxide solution into the reactor by applying pressure to the reservoir. In some embodiments, the supply unit acts as a reciprocating pump, with the reservoir forming part of the pump.

[0085] The supply unit can be configured to control the flow rate according to various parameters, such as the flow rate of the hydrogen peroxide solution, the oxygen flow rate (at the device outlet), and the reaction chamber pressure. In some embodiments, the supply unit further includes a pressure sensor.

[0086] The reaction chamber 13 includes a catalyst that facilitates the chemical decomposition of hydrogen peroxide into oxygen and water, an inlet for introducing the hydrogen peroxide solution into the reaction chamber, and an outlet for releasing oxygen and water vapor from the reaction chamber. The reaction chamber is constructed of an inert, non-reactive material that can withstand temperatures of at least 100°C.

[0087] An aqueous solution of hydrogen peroxide enters the reactor from the supply unit through at least one opening or inlet (e.g., a nozzle or spray nozzle). The reactor contains a catalyst that catalytically decomposes hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen. The solution mixes with solid catalyst particles to decompose hydrogen peroxide into H2O and O2. The reaction is exothermic, reaching temperatures above 90°C and up to approximately 98°C. The gas produced by the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide exits the reactor and flows out through the catalyst filter 14.

[0088] The reaction chamber may further include a pressure valve. In some embodiments, the pressure valve is configured to regulate the pressure within the reaction chamber by releasing excess gas or by adjusting the solution flow rate. The flow rate adjustment by the pressure valve may be performed directly or by a control unit.

[0089] The catalytic filter 14 is configured to decompose any hydrogen peroxide that has evaporated or been distilled by the decomposition reaction. The filter can be made of the same catalyst as that present in the reactor or a different catalyst.

[0090] The gas that has passed through the filter 14 proceeds into the cooling unit 15. The cooling unit is configured to cool the gas and condense the water vapor into liquid water. The cooling unit can discharge the liquid into a tank. In some embodiments, the cooling unit discharges over its entire length. In some embodiments, the liquid is discharged immediately and continuously. A water tank can hold and discharge the water.

[0091] The gas that has passed through the cooling unit 15 passes through the hydrophobic membrane (or filter) 16, removing any water vapor that has not condensed throughout the cooling unit.

[0092] The oxygen flow regulator 17 includes a flow meter that measures the amount of oxygen passing through the filter 16. The flow meter may adjust the supply unit to ensure that the oxygen flow is continuous and at the required level. The flow regulator may also measure the temperature of the gas to ensure that the oxygen is not too hot for the patient. In some embodiments, the flow regulator further includes a valve for adjusting the oxygen flow. The valve may be manual, mechanical, or electromechanical. In some embodiments, the valve is controlled by the user, by a control unit, or directly by the flow meter.

[0093] The system includes a control and display unit and a power supply 18. The display unit can display all important device parameters (such as oxygen flow, oxygen temperature, water tank content level, storage level, system pressure, and battery power level). The control and display unit can also track the overall status of the system (e.g., usage status, catalyst status, maintenance, etc.).

[0094] In some embodiments, the system further includes a biosensor. In some embodiments, the biosensor is an O2 blood saturation sensor connected to the patient. The sensor can be connected to a control unit to track the patient's saturation level. In some embodiments, the control unit is configured to control the oxygen flow rate according to the patient's O2 saturation level. The control unit can control the oxygen rate by adjusting an outlet valve or a supply unit.

[0095] The system includes an outlet port 19. Through the outlet port 19, the final oxygen produced exits the device and can be delivered to the patient or stored for later use.

[0096] Next, refer to Figure 2. The figure shows a specific embodiment of the oxygen generation device.

[0097] The oxygen generation device 20 includes a hydrogen peroxide cartridge 21 containing a hydrogen peroxide solution (e.g., 50% to 60%). The hydrogen peroxide solution is the base material for the chemical reaction that produces H2O and O2. The cartridge volume may be 750 to 3000 ml, which is sufficient to generate an O2 flow rate of 10 L / min for 30 to 45 minutes. The cartridge is designed to be quickly replaced when empty, allowing for a continuous oxygen flow.

[0098] Pump 22 (for example, a peristaltic pump) moves the hydrogen peroxide solution from cartridge 21 to reaction chamber 23, where the chemical reaction takes place. The pump speed (RPM) is controlled through a control unit.

[0099] Hydrogen peroxide is supplied into reaction chamber 23 and mixed with solid catalyst particles, causing the hydrogen peroxide to decompose into water and oxygen. The reaction is exothermic, reaching a temperature of over 90°C and a maximum of 98°C, generating a constant power of up to 1,500W.

[0100] The reaction chamber is supplied with oxygen, water vapor, some liquid, and gaseous hydrogen peroxide. The flow rate of the reaction products (O2, H2O) is directly proportional to the pump RPM (the reaction is saturated by the catalyst). A pressure gauge 24a monitors the pressure in the reaction chamber. If the pressure is excessive, a pressure valve 24b can release the excess gas.

[0101] Once the mixture leaves the reaction chamber, it is sent into catalyst filter 25, which is packed with catalyst particles. These particles chemically decompose trace amounts of hydrogen peroxide (liquid or gaseous) into oxygen and water, preventing even small amounts of corrosive hydrogen peroxide from reaching the patient.

[0102] After exiting the catalytic filter 25, the high-temperature oxygen and vapor flow into an active air cooling system including a fan 26a and a cooling enclosure 26b. As they travel through the system, condensation occurs, and water flows down through ports at the bottom of each curve in the cooling enclosure. This arrangement efficiently directs the cooling capacity towards the condensation of small amounts of vapor rather than the cooling of large amounts of water. The fan 26 is an active component of the cooling system. a Use (60W).

[0103] Water is collected in the water tank 27 and discharged in a timely manner through a solenoid-controlled tap.

[0104] Once the moist oxygen leaves the cooling system, it flows through the hydrophobic membrane 28, where further water is filtered out. The presence of liquid in the O2 pipe can interfere with accurate measurement of the O2 flow rate.

[0105] The heat meter 29a and the mass oxygen flow meter 29b are used to measure the real-time flow rate of oxygen exiting the device through the outlet port 29c.

[0106] Next, refer to Figure 3. The figure shows a cross-sectional view of the cooling system 30. Cooling air is generated by the fan 31, passes through the funnel 32, and reaches the region 33 surrounding the pipe 34 that contains oxygen and water vapor generated by the reactor. The gas flow is then dehumidified by the hydrophobic membrane 35 before being supplied to the patient, before exiting the system through the port 36.

[0107] Next, refer to Figure 4. The figure illustrates the heat sink cooling system 40. A mixture of high-temperature oxygen and water vapor enters the sink through 41. As the gas cools and the water vapor turns into liquid, the liquid water is discharged through the drain port 42 located at the lowest point of the U-bend 44, reducing the water content in the oxygen exiting the system through 43. Figure 4 shows the cooling unit of Figure 3 rotated 90° on the y-axis (i.e., a side view).

[0108] Next, refer to Figure 5. The figure shows a typical embodiment of a cooling enclosure for a cooling system. Figure 5A shows a cooling enclosure including a series of U-bends. At the lowest part of each lower U-bend 51, there is a drain port 52 for draining condensed liquid (water) within the cooling enclosure. Figure 5B shows a cooling enclosure in the shape of a horizontal coil, with drain ports 52 located at the lowest part of each coil rotation.

[0109] Next, refer to Figure 6. The figure shows a typical embodiment of the cooling system. A high-temperature gas mixture (e.g., high-temperature oxygen and vapor) flows into an active air cooling system 60, which includes a fan 66a and a cooling enclosure 66b. As it travels through the system, condensation occurs, and the low-boiling-point component (e.g., water) condenses and is discharged downward through drain ports 66e at the bottom of each lower U-bend 66d in the cooling enclosure. This arrangement efficiently directs the cooling capacity to a reduced flow containing the low-boiling-point component (e.g., oxygen) rather than cooling a large amount of condensed high-boiling-point component (e.g., water). The fan 66b is used as the active component of the cooling system. The high-boiling-point component (e.g., water) is collected in a tank 67.

[0110] Next, refer to Figure 7. The figure shows a specific embodiment of the oxygen generation device. The oxygen generation device 70 includes a hydrogen peroxide cartridge 71 containing a hydrogen peroxide solution (for example, 50% to 60%). The hydrogen peroxide solution is the base material for the chemical reaction that produces H2O and O2. The cartridge volume may be 750 to 3000 ml, which is sufficient to generate a flow rate of 10 l / min or more of O2 for 30 to 45 minutes. The cartridge is designed to be replaced immediately when empty, allowing for a continuous flow of oxygen.

[0111] Pump 72 (for example, a peristaltic pump) moves the hydrogen peroxide solution from cartridge 71 to reaction chamber 73, where the chemical reaction takes place. The pump speed (RPM) is controlled via control unit 79d.

[0112] Hydrogen peroxide is supplied into reaction chamber 73 and mixed with solid catalyst particles, causing the hydrogen peroxide to decompose into water and oxygen. The reaction is exothermic, reaching temperatures exceeding approximately 90°C and reaching a maximum of 98°C.

[0113] The gases leaving the reaction chamber are oxygen, water (as vapor), some liquid, and gaseous hydrogen peroxide. The flow rate of the reaction products (O2, H2O) is directly proportional to the pump RPM (the reaction is saturated by the catalyst). A pressure gauge 74a tracks the pressure in the reaction chamber. If the pressure is excessive, a pressure valve 74b can release the excess gas.

[0114] Once the mixture leaves the reaction chamber, it is sent into catalyst filter 75, which is packed with catalyst particles. These particles chemically decompose trace amounts of hydrogen peroxide (liquid or gaseous) into oxygen and water, preventing even small amounts of corrosive hydrogen peroxide from reaching the patient.

[0115] After exiting the catalytic filter 75, the high-temperature oxygen and steam flow into the dryer 76c. The dryer 76c contains a hydrophobic membrane that removes some of the water from the gas flow before it enters the cooling system.

[0116] Partially dry, high-temperature oxygen and water vapor flow into the active air cooling system, which includes fan 76a and cooling enclosure 76b. As it travels through the system, condensation occurs, and the liquid water is discharged downward through drains at the bottom of each lower U-bend in the cooling enclosure. The water is collected in water tank 77 and discharged through solenoid-controlled taps.

[0117] The presence of liquid in the O2 pipe can interfere with the accurate measurement of the O2 flow rate. Once the moist oxygen leaves the cooling system, it flows through the hydrophobic membrane 78, where further water is filtered out. Any water may be discharged from the hydrophobic membrane through a discharge device 78a. Optionally, once the oxygen stream leaves the hydrophobic filter, it passes through a further drying filter 78b containing a desiccant (e.g., silica).

[0118] The thermometer 79a and the mass oxygen flowmeter 79 are used to measure the real-time flow rate of oxygen exiting the device through the outlet port 79c.

[0119] The device is powered by a battery unit 79e, which may include a rechargeable 12-18V / 4-5Ah battery. The device further includes an electronic control and display unit 79d. The control and display unit 79d may be configured to control parameters selected from pump RPM, cooling fan speed, and water tank discharge. The control unit may also include feedback circuits for one or more of the parameters disclosed above. The control unit may be configured to monitor and / or alarm in the event of one or more of the following: low H2O2 storage, low battery, high water tank level, high device pressure, oxygen purity, and device maintenance. Examples Materials and methods

[0120] The cooling system performance was tested using several parameters: the mass and volume of liquid discharged, the temperature of the discharged liquid, and the heat released from each outlet point.

[0121] Data was collected for 5 minutes during device operation using 50% hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and a hydrogen peroxide decomposition catalyst (HydrogenLinkOxyCatalyst). The gas flow was measured using a gas flow meter and indirectly controlled by controlling the hydrogen peroxide flow using a peristaltic pump.

[0122] The volume was measured using a measuring cylinder, and the mass was measured using an analytical balance. The temperature was measured using a thermometer (ExTech 4-channel thermometer, model SDL200). The heat was calculated using the following equation.

number

[0123] Table 1 shows the parameters measured in the cooling system of the oxygen generator. [Table 1]

[0124] 1.1 Effects of gas flow

[0125] Theoretically, increasing the gas flow rate necessitates increasing the hydrogen peroxide flow, which in turn increases its decomposition reaction rate within the reaction chamber. Adding more reactants (in this case, hydrogen peroxide) promotes the catalyst's catalytic action in the decomposition reaction. As a result, more oxygen and water are produced, and the temperature within the reaction chamber increases due to the heat generated from the exothermic reaction. Therefore, as the hydrogen peroxide flow increases and the amount of hydrogen peroxide entering the reaction chamber increases, it is expected that the mass and temperature of the liquids discharged will increase as more heat is released.

[0126] 1.1.1 Mass of liquid discharged

[0127] The products of the hydrogen peroxide decomposition reaction are water and oxygen. In high-flow experiments (7 and 10 LPM), trace amounts of hydrogen peroxide were found in the liquid discharged at the first and second outlet points. This indicates that not all H2O2 reacted in the reaction chamber, but condensed in the cooling system. It can be concluded that the amount of catalyst should be increased to compensate for the high flow rate of H2O2.

[0128] Figure 8 shows the mass of liquid discharged from outlet points 1-4 at flow rates of 5, 7, and 10 LPM. As can be seen from the figure, only at the high flow rate of 10 LPM did the fourth outlet point participate in the cooling process. In addition, the trend is the same for all three flow rates. As the outlet point number increases, the mass of liquid discharged decreases. This can be explained by the fact that most of the liquid condenses at the first outlet point due to the high temperature difference (the temperature when the gas flow leaves the reaction chamber is 92-96°C).

[0129] The graph for 10 LPM is considerably higher than the other two, but the difference between 5 and 7 LPM is small. However, in the case of 7 LPM, the total mass of liquid discharged from the cooling system is higher (though not significantly). Also, in the case of 7 LPM, a third outlet point was involved in the cooling process, whereas in the case of 5 LPM, only two outlet points were necessary.

[0130] 1.1.2 Discharged liquid temperature

[0131] The temperature of the discharged liquid indicates the efficiency of the cooling process at each outlet point. As shown in Figure 9, for all three flow rates, the temperature decreases as the outlet point number increases. Comparing between different flow rates, it can be seen that the temperature decreases with flow rate at each outlet point. The highest efficiency was obtained at 5 LPM, and the lowest efficiency at 10 LPM. At the highest flow rate, the largest amount of products (water and oxygen) were generated. Therefore, the required cooling is "more difficult." This is represented by the higher temperature of the discharged liquid and the number of outlet points required for cooling.

[0132] 1.1.3 Heat Dissipation

[0133] The heat released during the cooling process is calculated based on the mass of liquid released and the temperature difference between the inlet and outlet. This parameter, expressed as temperature, represents the cooling efficiency. Figure 10 shows the heat released from each outlet point at different flow rates. The heat released at each outlet point decreases as the point number increases. This is because the mass to be cooled decreases, the temperature delta becomes smaller, and therefore less heat needs to be released. This trend is present at all flow rates tested. The lowest flow rate of 5 LPM required the lowest hydrogen peroxide flow rate. At low reactant flow rates, the catalyst is able to catalyze the hydrogen peroxide more effectively than in other gas flow experiments, allowing the cooling system to release more heat at the beginning of the cooling process. At high hydrogen peroxide flow rates (as in the 7 and 10 LPM experiments), the cooling efficiency decreases because the amount of hot gas to be cooled increases. This is represented by higher liquid temperatures, as shown in Figure 9, and lower heat released, as shown in Figure 10.

[0134] 1.2 Effect of catalyst amount

[0135] Generally, chemical reactions proceed faster in the presence of a catalyst. This is because catalysts provide alternative reaction pathways with lower activation energies than those in the non-catalyst mechanism. Therefore, the amount of catalyst significantly affects the reaction rate. It is expected that the reaction rate will increase with increasing amounts of catalyst, up to the point where the catalyst is in sufficient excess.

[0136] 1.2.1 Mass of liquid discharged

[0137] Figure 11 shows the effect of catalyst amount on discharged liquid for different flow rates. Longer times were required in the low-catalyst experiments to obtain a specific gas flow rate for the same liquid flow rate (constant pump voltage) (30 seconds in all low-catalyst experiments). Since the total experiment time was constant (5 minutes), the amount of discharged liquid obtained from the first outlet decreased during that time. For the second and third outlets, the trend was reversed because there was less remaining liquid to condense (most of the liquid condensed at the first outlet). However, at the high flow rate of 10 LPM, with a low catalyst amount, a larger volume of liquid was discharged from all outlets compared to the high-catalyst case. This can be explained by the "overload phenomenon" observed in the high-flow experiments. As explained in Section 1.1.1, 10 LPM proved to be too high a flow rate for its reaction chamber design. As a result, hydrogen peroxide overloaded the reaction chamber, but the catalyst could not catalyze it at the same rate. As a result of the "overload phenomenon," an incomplete reaction occurs, and hydrogen peroxide is present in the discharged liquid. This phenomenon is stronger in high flow rate (10 LPM) and low catalyst experiments. This means that more hydrogen peroxide is discharged compared to high catalyst experiments. Since hydrogen peroxide is denser than water, the mass of liquid discharged is higher in the case of low catalyst amounts.

[0138] 1.2.2 Discharged liquid temperature

[0139] The results with respect to temperature are shown in Figure 12. The results show a dominant behavior. For a given flow rate, lower catalyst amounts result in higher temperatures. This is expected because the mass of the discharged liquid is lower. This means that less energy is released through the condensation process, resulting in higher temperatures. However, 10 LPM does not show consistent behavior. At the first outlet point, the low catalyst yields almost the same liquid discharge temperature, but at the second outlet, the low catalyst yields a higher liquid discharge temperature, and at the third outlet, the high catalyst yields a higher temperature. In this case as well, it is reasonable to assume that the overload is hindering some of the hydrogen peroxide reaction in the reaction chamber, and that some of the reaction is occurring in the cooling system, so conclusions cannot be drawn based solely on the temperature results.

[0140] By comparing different flow rates, we can see that as the flow rate decreases, the temperature at each outlet point decreases for each amount of catalyst. This is because more liquid condenses, and as a result, more of the released heat is consumed in the endothermic condensation process.

[0141] 1.2.3 Heat Dissipation

[0142] The heat release results shown in Figure 13 reveal the following: As the flow rate increases, the heat released from each outlet decreases for each amount of catalyst (except for the 10 LPM case, which was an overloaded state as explained). The high heat released by the cooling system represents the efficiency of the cooling process. The highest efficiency was obtained at lower flow rates for each amount of catalyst, because the delta between the inlet and outlet temperatures was the largest. Based on Equation 1, the heat calculation is performed based on this temperature difference. The trend is the same for all experiments. The heat released from each outlet point decreases dramatically between the first and second outlet points, and the gradient becomes gentler between the second and third outlets. As a result, it can be seen that most of the heat is released at the first outlet point, which is the most efficient cooling point. When comparing two catalyst amounts at the same flow rate (excluding 10 LPM), the following becomes clear: a larger catalyst amount results in greater heat release. This is because a larger amount leads to better catalytic action in the reaction, thus increasing the amount of product obtained during the experiment (while the pump voltage remains constant) and generating more heat in this exothermic reaction.

[0143] The results show that the mass of liquid discharged decreases as the outlet number increases. For each flow rate, the temperature of the discharged liquid decreases as the outlet number increases. At each outlet point, the temperature also decreases with flow rate. The heat released at each outlet point decreases as the point number increases. At the highest flow rate, the largest amount of products (water and oxygen) were produced.

[0144] The highest efficiency was achieved at 5 LPM, and the lowest efficiency at 10 LPM. Lower flow rates yielded the highest efficiency for each catalyst amount. The first outlet point is the most efficient cooling point. The following are embodiments of the present invention. [Aspect 1] A portable oxygen generation system, It is a reaction chamber, A catalyst that promotes the chemical decomposition of hydrogen peroxide into oxygen and water, An inlet for introducing hydrogen peroxide solution into the reaction chamber, The reaction chamber includes an outlet for releasing oxygen and water vapor from the reaction chamber, A hydrogen peroxide supply system that is in fluid communication with the inlet of the reaction chamber, A hydrogen peroxide storage container containing an aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution, The hydrogen peroxide supply system includes a supply flow regulator that controls the rate at which the hydrogen peroxide aqueous solution is added to the reaction chamber, A cooling system, The outlet of the reaction chamber and the inlet for receiving oxygen and water vapor are connected by fluid, A condenser comprising two or more drain pipes, each drain pipe configured to discharge water condensed from the water vapor within the cooling system, A portable oxygen generating system, comprising a cooling system including an outlet for releasing cooled oxygen gas with reduced water vapor. [Aspect 2] The device according to embodiment 1, wherein the oxygen flow from the device is directly proportional to the rate at which the hydrogen peroxide aqueous solution is introduced into the reaction chamber during device operation. [Aspect 3] The device according to embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the catalyst is selected from metals, metalloids, metal alloys, metalloid alloys, metal compounds, such as metal oxides and metalloid compounds, or mixtures thereof. [Aspect 4] The device according to any one of embodiments 1 to 3, wherein the catalyst contains manganese dioxide. [Aspect 5] The device according to any one of embodiments 1 to 4, wherein the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution is at least about 15% or at least about 20% hydrogen peroxide. [Aspect 6] The device according to any one of embodiments 1 to 5, wherein the hydrogen peroxide aqueous solution is approximately 30% to approximately 70% hydrogen peroxide. [Aspect 7] The device according to any one of embodiments 1 to 6, wherein the hydrogen peroxide storage device is a replaceable cartridge. [Aspect 8] The device according to any one of embodiments 1 to 7, wherein the supply flow regulator includes a user-controlled pump. [Aspect 9] The device according to embodiment 8, wherein the pump is selected from the group consisting of positive displacement pumps, peristaltic pumps, syringe pumps, piston pumps, plunger pumps, screw pumps, and reciprocating pumps. [Aspect 10] The device according to any one of embodiments 1 to 9, further comprising a catalytic filter located in a fluid communication between the outlet of the reaction chamber and the inlet of the cooling system, wherein the catalytic filter contains the catalyst for decomposing hydrogen peroxide into oxygen and water. [Aspect 11] The device according to any one of embodiments 1 to 10, wherein the condenser is configured to discharge liquid water over the entire length of the condenser. [Aspect 12] The device according to embodiment 11, wherein the liquid water is discharged immediately and continuously from the condenser. [Aspect 13] The cooling system further includes a container for collecting condensed water, according to any one of embodiments 1 to 12. [Aspect 14] The device according to any one of embodiments 1 to 13, wherein the cooling system includes a heat sink. [Aspect 15] The device according to any one of embodiments 1 to 14, wherein the cooling system includes one or more fans. [Aspect 16] The device according to any one of embodiments 1 to 15, further comprising a hydrophobic membrane for removing residual water at the outlet of the cooling system. [Aspect 17] The device according to embodiment 16, wherein the hydrophobic film includes a material selected from the group consisting of acrylic copolymer, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF). [Aspect 18] The device according to any one of embodiments 1 to 17, wherein the oxygen stream emitted from the device contains less than approximately 1 ppm of hydrogen peroxide, or less than approximately 0.5 ppm of hydrogen peroxide. [Aspect 19] The device according to any one of embodiments 1 to 18, which generates oxygen at a constant flow rate of up to approximately 8 L / min, or up to approximately 10 L / min, or up to approximately 15 L / min, at a temperature of less than approximately 40°C for more than approximately 30 minutes. [Aspect 20] The device according to any one of embodiments 1 to 19, wherein the oxygen emitted from the device is about 10°C or less above the ambient temperature, or about 8°C or less above the ambient temperature, or about 6°C or less above the ambient temperature. [Aspect 21] A device for cooling and separating gas mixtures, An inlet for receiving a gas mixture, wherein the mixture includes at least a high-boiling point component and a low-boiling point component, A condenser comprising two or more drain pipes, each drain pipe configured to continuously discharge the condensed liquid containing the high-boiling-point component from the cooling system by gravity, At least one source of cooling fluid, The device includes an outlet for releasing a cooled gas mixture in which the high-boiling-point component has been reduced. [Aspect 22] The device according to embodiment 21, wherein the condenser is formed in the longitudinal section of pipes connected by U-bends, and each lower U-bend of the condenser includes a drain at the lowest point along the U-bend, and gravity is assisted in the continuous discharge of the condensed liquid from the condenser through the drain. [Aspect 23] The device according to embodiment 21, wherein the condenser is in the form of a coil and has a drain port located at each lowest point relative to the rotation of each coil. [Aspect 24] The device according to any one of embodiments 21 to 23, wherein the condenser includes three or more drain outlets. [Pattern 25] The device according to any one of embodiments 21 to 24, wherein the condenser is incorporated into the heat sink. [Aspect 26] The device according to any one of embodiments 21 to 25, wherein the cooling fluid is air and the source of the cooling air is a fan. [Aspect 27] The device according to any one of embodiments 21 to 26, wherein the high-boiling-point component is water and the low-boiling-point component is oxygen.

Claims

1. A portable oxygen generating device, It is a reaction chamber, A catalyst that promotes the chemical decomposition of hydrogen peroxide into oxygen and water, An inlet for introducing an aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution into the reaction chamber, The reaction chamber includes an outlet for releasing oxygen and water vapor from the reaction chamber, A hydrogen peroxide supply system that is in fluid communication with the inlet of the reaction chamber, A hydrogen peroxide storage device containing the aforementioned hydrogen peroxide aqueous solution, The hydrogen peroxide supply system includes a supply flow regulator that controls the rate at which the hydrogen peroxide aqueous solution is added to the reaction chamber, A cooling system, The outlet of the reaction chamber and the inlet for receiving oxygen and water vapor are connected by fluid, A condenser comprising two or more drain pipes extending over the entire length of the condenser, each drain pipe configured to discharge water condensed from the water vapor within the cooling system, A portable oxygen generating device, comprising a cooling system including an outlet for releasing cooled oxygen gas with reduced water vapor content.

2. The portable oxygen generator according to claim 1, wherein the flow of cooled oxygen gas from the portable oxygen generator is directly proportional to the rate at which the hydrogen peroxide aqueous solution is introduced into the reaction chamber during operation of the portable oxygen generator.

3. The portable oxygen generating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the catalyst is selected from metals, metalloids, metal alloys, metalloid alloys, metal compounds, metal oxides, metalloid compounds, or mixtures thereof.

4. The portable oxygen generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the catalyst contains manganese dioxide.

5. The portable oxygen generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution is hydrogen peroxide with a concentration of at least 15% or at least 20%.

6. The portable oxygen generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the hydrogen peroxide aqueous solution is hydrogen peroxide with a concentration of 30% to 70%.

7. The portable oxygen generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the hydrogen peroxide storage device is a replaceable cartridge.

8. The portable oxygen generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the supply flow regulator includes a user-controlled pump.

9. The portable oxygen generating device according to claim 8, wherein the user-controlled pump is selected from the group consisting of positive displacement pumps, peristaltic pumps, syringe pumps, piston pumps, plunger pumps, screw pumps, and reciprocating pumps.

10. The portable oxygen generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising a catalytic filter located in a fluid communication between the outlet of the reaction chamber and the inlet of the cooling system, wherein the catalytic filter comprises the catalyst for decomposing the hydrogen peroxide into oxygen and water.

11. The portable oxygen generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the condenser is configured to discharge liquid water throughout the entire length of the condenser.

12. The portable oxygen generating device according to claim 11, wherein the liquid water is discharged immediately and continuously from the condenser.

13. The portable oxygen generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the cooling system further includes a container for collecting condensed water.

14. The portable oxygen generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the cooling system includes a heat sink.

15. The portable oxygen generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the cooling system includes one or more fans.

16. The portable oxygen generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, further comprising a hydrophobic membrane for removing residual water at the outlet of the cooling system.

17. The portable oxygen generating device according to claim 16, wherein the hydrophobic membrane includes a material selected from the group consisting of acrylic copolymer, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF).

18. The portable oxygen generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the cooled oxygen gas emitted from the portable oxygen generating device contains less than 1 ppm of hydrogen peroxide or less than 0.5 ppm of hydrogen peroxide.

19. The portable oxygen generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the portable oxygen generating device generates cooled oxygen gas at a constant flow rate of up to 8 L / min, or up to 10 L / min, or up to 15 L / min, at a temperature of less than 40°C for more than 30 minutes.

20. The portable oxygen generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the cooled oxygen gas emitted from the portable oxygen generating device is 10°C or less above the ambient temperature, or 8°C or less above the ambient temperature, or 6°C or less above the ambient temperature.

Images