Rotary device, apparatus and methods of use

Abstract

A rotary device, apparatus and methods of use is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a chamber (15) configured to receive a first material (e.g. organic matter) and a rotary device (50) located in the chamber and configured to contact the first material. A drive mechanism (32) rotates the rotary device. The apparatus comprises a flow path for delivering a second material (e.g. ozone) to the first material, wherein at least part of the flow path passes through the rotary device. The apparatus is suitable for a wide range of industrial processes, particularly those which involve the mixing of two or more materials.

Description

[0001] ROTARY DEVICE, APPARATUS AND METHODS OF USE

[0002] The present invention relates to a rotary device, apparatus and methods of use. Some aspects of the invention have application to mixing and / or reaction processes, particularly involving a gaseous reactant and a liquid reactant, and some aspects of the invention relate to a reactor for carrying out chemical and / or physico-chemical reactions, and methods of use. Some aspects of the invention relate to an apparatus for sparging of a fluid, and methods of use.

[0003] Background to the Invention

[0004] Cavitation is the process of the formation of the vapour phase of a liquid within cavities or voids in the liquid phase, and occurs when the liquid is subjected to reduced pressures at constant ambient temperature. Hydrodynamic cavitation occurs when a device generates cavitation due to sudden changes in flow geometry, creating local reductions in pressure. Hydroacoustic cavitation is generated by the hydrodynamic generation of periodic changes in liquid pressure. The effects of cavitation are known to enhance yields or reduce reaction times of many chemical and / or physico-chemical reactions.

[0005] US 4,906,387 describes a method and apparatus for oxidising contaminants in water, in which cavitation is induced by passing the water through a cavitation nozzle prior to irradiating the water with ultraviolet radiation.

[0006] WO 2005 / 021050 describes an apparatus and method for liquid treatment by a combination of irradiation (for example UV irradiation) and cavitation. The apparatus comprises a rotary cavitation device in the chamber of a reactor. Cavitation of the liquid is said to introduce a greater surface area of fluid in the radiation treatment zone, thereby increasing the rate of exposure of fluid to the radiation.

[0007] WO 2016 / 075493 describes a reactor system for treating a liquid comprising a Venturi injector for an oxidation agent such as oxygen or ozone and a rotary device located downstream of the injector in the flow direction of the liquid and configured to induce cavitation in the liquid / gas mixture. However, in certain applications, particularly those which involve materials having high viscosity and / or high solid content, the fluid flow is not sufficient to entrain gases through the Venturi injector. Thus, there is a need in the art for an improved apparatus which can be used in a wider range of applications.

[0008] Summary of the Invention

[0009] It is amongst the aims and objectives of the invention to provide a reactor apparatus and / or method which obviates or mitigates one or more drawbacks or disadvantages of prior art reactor apparatus and methods.

[0010] It is an aim of at least one aspect of the invention to provide a rotary device, apparatus and method of use suitable for a wide range of industrial processes involving mixing fluids, particularly a gaseous reagent and a liquid reagent.

[0011] It is an aim of at least one aspect of the invention to provide a rotary device, apparatus and method of use suitable for the treatment and / or processing of high viscosity liquids or slurries.

[0012] It is an aim of at least one aspect of the invention to provide a rotary device, apparatus and method of use which improves the efficiency, effectiveness or capacity of a chemical and / or physico-chemical reaction, such as an advanced oxidation process reaction.

[0013] Additional aims and objects of the invention will become apparent from reading the following description.

[0014] According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a rotary device comprising: a main body portion defining an interior cavity; and one or more blades on the main body portion, wherein at least one of the one or more blades comprises one or more outlets in fluid communication with the interior cavity.

[0015] According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided an apparatus for mixing two or more materials, comprising: a chamber configured to receive a first material; a rotary device located in the chamber and configured to contact the first material; and a drive mechanism for rotating the rotary device, wherein the apparatus comprises a flow path for delivering a second material to the first material, wherein at least part of the flow path passes through the rotary device.

[0016] The rotary device may comprise one or more bores or conduits for the second material, and / or may comprise one or more outlets of the flow path.

[0017] One or more outlets of the flow path may be disposed in a contact surface or interface between the rotary device and the first material (the contact surface being a surface arranged to contact the first material in use).

[0018] The rotary device may preferably be a rotary cavitation device. In these embodiments, the drive mechanism is configured to rotate the rotary cavitation device at a speed sufficient to induce cavitation in the first material at a cavitation site. Any of the forthcoming features relating to the rotary cavitation device are also applicable more generally to the rotary device.

[0019] According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided an apparatus for mixing two or more materials, comprising: a chamber configured to receive a first material; a rotary cavitation device located in the chamber and configured to contact the first material; and a drive mechanism for rotating the rotary cavitation device at a speed sufficient to induce cavitation in the first material at a cavitation site, wherein the apparatus comprises a flow path for delivering a second material to the cavitation site, wherein at least part of the flow path passes through the rotary cavitation device.

[0020] The apparatus may be a reactor apparatus, and the chamber may be a reaction chamber.

[0021] Any of the features relating to the reactor apparatus and reaction chamber are also applicable more generally to the apparatus and chamber respectively. According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a reactor apparatus for a chemical and / or physico-chemical reaction, comprising: a reaction chamber configured to receive a first material; a rotary cavitation device located in the reaction chamber and configured to contact the first material; and a drive mechanism for rotating the rotary cavitation device at a speed sufficient to induce cavitation in the first material at a cavitation site, wherein the reactor apparatus comprises a flow path for delivering a second material to the cavitation site, wherein at least part of the flow path passes through the rotary cavitation device.

[0022] According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of carrying out a chemical and / or physico-chemical reaction between a first material and a second material in a reactor apparatus, the reactor apparatus comprising a reaction chamber and a rotary cavitation device located in the reaction chamber, the method comprising: contacting the rotary cavitation device with the first material in the reaction chamber; rotating the rotary cavitation device at a speed sufficient to induce cavitation in the first material; and introducing the second material into the reaction chamber via at least one flow path, wherein at least part of the flow path passes through the rotary cavitation device.

[0023] According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a use of a reactor apparatus according to the present invention for carrying out a chemical and / or physico-chemical reaction between a first material and a second material.

[0024] The first material may comprise a mixture of one or more solids and one or more liquids. Alternatively, or in addition, the first material may comprise one or more liquids.

[0025] The second material may comprise one or more fluids, which may comprise one or more liquids and / or one or more gases. The second material may comprise a reactive oxygen species, and may comprise ozone gas. The second material may comprise an inert gas. The second material may comprise a gaseous hydrocarbon, such as gaseous methane. The second material may comprise a solid suspension. In some embodiments, the first material comprises a liquid and the second material comprises a liquid. In some embodiments, the first material comprises a liquid and the second material comprises a gas. In some embodiments, the first material comprises organic matter and / or slurries, and the second material comprises a reactive oxygen species.

[0026] By introducing the second material through the rotary cavitation device, the reactor apparatus may induce cavitation in the immediate location of, or very close to, a reaction site at which reactants contained within the first material and the second material react. In some embodiments, the second material may be introduced directly to a contact surface or interface between the rotary cavitation device and the first material.

[0027] Such arrangements are beneficial to the efficiency and the effectiveness for many chemical and / or physico-chemical reactions, including but not limited to advanced oxidation process (AOP) reactions. For example, the use of cavitation aids pathogen destruction, the decomposition of organic compounds of low biodegradability or recalcitrant materials, reduces particle size of solids within materials, reduces material viscosity and also enhances the interactions between immiscible liquids resulting in an acceleration of chemical reactions or process intensification.

[0028] Where the second material comprises a gas, cavitation can have the effect of improving the dissolution of the gas into the first material. Where the gas comprises a reactive oxygen species, such as oxygen or ozone, this is beneficial to the efficiency and effectiveness of an AOP.

[0029] The inventors have surprisingly found that the present invention addresses particular challenges associated with treating or pre-treating materials with high viscosity and / or high solid content. These include treatment of organic matter and / or plant-based or animalbased biomass, including food waste, lignocellulosic biomass, and chitinous and keratinous-based matter. The treatment of such materials enables the production of a range of useful products from previously challenging biomass materials. Useful products include feedstocks for bacterial digestion processes, yeast fermentation processes, biofertilisers and organic end use products such as sugars, amino acids, fatty acids, and alcohols. The rotary cavitation device may be operable to induce hydrodynamic cavitation. Alternatively, or in addition, the rotary cavitation device may be operable to induce hydroacoustic cavitation. In some embodiments, the rotary cavitation device may be operable to induce supercavitation, which may have the effect of reducing drag of the mixture of fluids, solids and gasses through the reaction vessel. Furthermore, supercavitation, along with cavitation fields produced within the reactor, may prevent solids from depositing or building up on the internal surfaces of the reaction vessel and / or other components contained within the reaction vessel (such as UV emitting bulbs and / or catalytic material surfaces), creating a self-cleaning action.

[0030] The rotary cavitation device may comprise a main body portion and one or more vanes or blades on the main body portion. The one or more vanes or blades may comprise a leading edge and trailing edge in a normal direction of rotation of the rotary cavitation device. The flow path may pass through the main body portion and at least one of the vanes or blades.

[0031] The flow path may comprise at least one outlet from the device to the reaction chamber, and the at least one outlet may be located on at least one of the vanes or blades. The at least one outlet may be located on a trailing edge of at least one of the vanes or blades.

[0032] The drive mechanism may comprise a motor and a drive shaft. The motor may be an electric motor. The motor may be a high torque, high revolutions per minute (RPM) motor. The motor may have a variable speed drive which enables automatic RPM control for varying fluid properties or flow conditions. The motor may be operable to drive the rotary cavitation device at rotational speeds in excess of 5,000 rpm. The preferred operating range of the blades may be in the region of 10,000 to 30,000 rpm, and in some cases, may be in the excess of 30,000 rpm.

[0033] The reaction chamber may comprise at least one inlet and at least one outlet, and may be at least partially configured as a conduit having a longitudinal axis. At least a part of the drive mechanism may be oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis of the reaction chamber.

[0034] The flow path may comprise a drive shaft conduit, and the drive shaft conduit may extend at least partially along the drive shaft towards the rotary cavitation device. The drive shaft conduit may be internal to the drive shaft. Alternatively, the drive shaft conduit may be external to the drive shaft. The drive shaft conduit may be fluidly coupled to the body of the rotary cavitation device.

[0035] The drive shaft may comprise one or more apertures, which may connect an internal drive shaft conduit to the exterior of the drive shaft. The apertures may be radially oriented with respect to the drive shaft.

[0036] The rotary cavitation device may be coupled to the drive shaft, and may be mounted on the drive shaft so that the drive shaft is at least partially surrounded by the rotary cavitation device.

[0037] The main body portion may be located on the drive shaft over the apertures.

[0038] The main body may define an interior cavity, at least part of which may be shaped and positioned to be located over the apertures in the drive shaft. The cavity may comprise a first recessed portion, which may be open to the inner diameter of the main body.

[0039] The main body portion may be sealed against the drive shaft, and may comprise first and second seal assemblies on opposing sides of the apertures.

[0040] The main body portion may comprise a bore fluidly connecting the cavity to the one or more outlets. The bore may comprise a first bore portion extending axially in the main body, and the first bore portion may be an annular bore portion. The first bore portion may be formed radially outward of the cavity in the main body portion, and may be fluidly connected to the cavity via ports.

[0041] The rotary device may comprise one or more outlet conduits, which may be located between the annular bore portion and the outlets. The one or more outlet conduits may extend between the annular bore portion and the outlets, and may be located in the one or more blades or vanes. An outlet conduit may be provided for each of the one or more blades or vanes having outlets. Each of the one or more blades having outlets may comprise a plurality of outlets fluidly connected the respective outlet conduit. In an embodiment of the invention, the flow path comprises a drive shaft conduit, one or more apertures in the drive shaft, a cavity in the main body portion, inner apertures, a first bore portion in the main body portion, one or more second bore portions located in the one or more blades or vanes, and outlets to the reaction chamber.

[0042] The rotary cavitation device may comprise a main body portion and a plurality of blades extending radially and axially from the main body portion, and the blades may therefore be inclined at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the rotary cavitation device. Each of the blades may comprise a plurality of outlets, fluidly connected to an outlet conduit within the blade. Preferably each of the plurality of blades extends axially beyond the axial length of the main body portion.

[0043] The rotary cavitation device may comprise a securing mechanism for attaching the rotary cavitation device to the drive shaft, which may comprise a screw.

[0044] The rotary cavitation device may be of unitary construction, and may be formed by a 3D printing process from a polymer material, a metal, or a composite material.

[0045] The reactor apparatus may comprise a plurality of rotary cavitation devices, which may be spatially separated in the reaction chamber. In an embodiment, a single one of the plurality of rotary cavitation devices is a rotary cavitation device as described above (a primary rotary cavitation device), comprising a flow path for the introduction of the second material into the reaction chamber, and the remaining rotary cavitation devices are secondary rotary cavitation devices, operable to be driven to induce cavitation in the reaction chamber, but omitting the flow path for the introduction of the second material into the reaction chamber.

[0046] Alternatively, the reactor apparatus may comprise a plurality of rotary cavitation devices, each of which comprises a flow path for the second material. A further alternative is that a subset of the plurality of rotary cavitation devices are primary rotary cavitation devices comprising flow paths for the second material, and the remaining rotary cavitation devices are secondary rotary cavitation devices, operable to be driven to induce cavitation in the reaction chamber, but omitting the flow path for the introduction of the second material into the reaction chamber. The one more secondary rotary cavitation devices may be similar to the rotary cavitation device described above, and may comprise a body, which may have a main body portion and one or more vanes or blades on the main body portion.

[0047] The plurality of rotary cavitation devices may be axially separated in the reaction chamber, and may be axially separated on a single drive shaft of the drive mechanism (and may therefore be operable to be driven by a single motor).

[0048] The reactor apparatus may comprise a plurality of sub chambers, which may be arranged in series. The reaction chamber may be elongated, and may be configured as a conduit. The reaction chamber may comprise a primary inlet for the first material, and / or may comprise a primary outlet.

[0049] The reaction chamber may comprise a chamber housing. The chamber housing may comprise at least one housing module. Preferably, the chamber housing comprises a plurality of housing modules assembled together to form the reaction chamber. The plurality of housing modules may be assembled in series to form an elongated reaction chamber. The plurality of housing modules may comprise at least one inlet module and / or may comprise one or more reactor housing modules. The plurality of housing modules may comprise at least one outlet module. Each reactor housing module may be configured to be assembled with an inlet module or an adjacent reactor housing module at a first end, and an adjacent reactor housing module or an outlet module at a second end. Each reactor housing module may be configured to be assembled with an outlet module or an adjacent reactor housing module. The housing modules may comprise threaded connections to enable assembly with an adjacent housing module.

[0050] The reactor apparatus may comprise a plurality of rotary cavitation devices spatially separated along an elongated reaction chamber. Where the reaction chamber comprises sub chambers, each of the plurality of rotary cavitation devices may be located in a respective sub chamber.

[0051] The plurality of rotary cavitation devices may be coupled to a drive shaft that extends along the elongated reaction chamber. The reactor apparatus may comprise at least one support element disposed part way along the reaction chamber. The support element may support the drive shaft a partway along the length of the drive shaft. The support element assembly may comprise a bore through which the drive shaft extends. The support element may comprise a bearing for the drive shaft. The support element may comprise a support member attached to the chamber housing. Where the chamber housing comprises housing modules, the support member may be attached to the chamber housing by an attachment formation between two adjacent housing modules.

[0052] The support element may be configured to permit passage of materials in the reaction chamber. The support element may be configured as a static mixer, which may agitate the flow of materials within the reaction chamber.

[0053] The drive shaft may extend from a first end of the reaction chamber to a second end of the reaction chamber. The reactor apparatus may comprise an inlet for the second material at the first end of the drive shaft. The motor may be disposed at the second end of the drive shaft.

[0054] The reaction chamber may incorporate multiple drive shafts extending from the first end of the reaction chamber to the second end of the reaction chamber, as hereinbefore described.

[0055] The reaction chamber may comprise at least one source of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The reaction chamber may comprise one or more UV light emitting bulbs and / or surfaces extending from the first end of the reaction chamber to the second end of the reaction chamber. The one or more UV light emitting bulbs may be coaxially spaced longitudinally with the drive shafts, and / or may be incorporated into the inside surface of the reaction chamber walls.

[0056] The reaction chamber may comprise an ultraviolet lamp, preferably cylindrical in form. The ultraviolet lamp may extend through the reaction chamber in a longitudinal direction, and thus may be coaxial with a longitudinal axis of the reaction chamber. The reaction chamber may comprise a single ultraviolet lamp, preferably within the centre of the conduit. Alternatively, the reaction chamber may comprise a plurality of (longitudinally extending) ultraviolet lamps. The at least one source of UV radiation may be configured to emit UV radiation at a single UV wavelength, or may be configured to emit UV radiation at multiple UV wavelengths. The UV wavelengths may be discrete wavelengths, or the source may comprise a wideband UV source. The emitted UV radiation may comprise a wavelength or wavelengths in the range of 100 nm to 400 nm, and may comprise the UVC radiation range. Preferably the emitted UV radiation includes at least one wavelength selected from 185 nm, 253.7 nm and / or 254 nm.

[0057] In operation, the reaction chamber may be pressurised, heated, cooled, electrically charged, electrostatically charged, magnetically charged, and / or vibrated.

[0058] According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of treating organic matter using the apparatus of the present invention, wherein the first material is organic matter.

[0059] The first material may be selected from one or more of plant-based or animal-based biomass, including food waste, lignocellulosic biomass, and chitinous and keratinousbased matter. The first material may be selected from carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, nucleic acids, or combinations thereof.

[0060] The second material may comprise a reactive oxygen species, and may comprise ozone.

[0061] According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of producing a feedstock for an aerobic or anaerobic digestion process from organic matter using the apparatus of the present invention.

[0062] According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of producing a feedstock for a yeast or bacterial fermentation process from organic matter using the apparatus of the present invention.

[0063] According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of producing a feedstock for a thermal liquefaction process from organic matter using the apparatus of the present invention. According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of producing biofertilisers or organic end use soil products from organic matter using the apparatus of the present invention.

[0064] According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of creating nutrition products, supplements, and / or feed additives for animal or human consumption from organic matter using the apparatus of the present invention. The ability to increase bioavailability of organic matter that is ingested may improve animal or human health and has the potential to reduce ecological footprints or establish secure food supplies that are more sustainable.

[0065] According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of synthesising a chemical product using the apparatus of the present invention. The chemical product may be a chemical end use product. The chemical product may comprise a chemical having at least one organic functional group including, but not limited to, alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, alcohols, thiols, ethers, ethers, aldehydes, ketones or carboxylic acids.

[0066] As a non-limiting example, the method may comprise synthesising methanol. The first material may be liquid or aqueous hydrogen peroxide, and the second material may be gaseous methane.

[0067] According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of purifying a gas using the apparatus of the present invention. The gas may be raw biogas, or bio-hythane created in an anaerobic reactor. The gas purification may comprise converting methane to methanol.

[0068] According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of producing a biogas fuel, the method comprising producing a feedstock for a bacterial digestion process from organic matter using the apparatus of the present invention, and utilising the feedstock in a bacterial digestion process to generate biogas, such as bio-methane or bio-hydrogen.

[0069] The bacterial digestion process may be an anaerobic digestion process.

[0070] According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of producing a liquid bio-fuel, the method comprising producing a feedstock for a fermentation process from organic matter using the apparatus of the present invention, and utilising the feedstock in a fermentation process to generate a liquid biofuel.

[0071] The liquid biofuel may comprise bio-acetone, bio-butanol and / or bio-ethanol.

[0072] The fermentation process may be a yeast fermentation process. The fermentation process may be an aerobic or anaerobic bacteria process, such as an acetone-butanol-ethanol (ABE) fermentation, also known as the Weizman process.

[0073] According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of forming a nanoemulsion or nanobubbles using the apparatus of the present invention.

[0074] According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of converting petroleum or petrochemical feedstocks to graphene using the apparatus of the present invention.

[0075] According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of conducting a continuous flow polymerisation using the apparatus of the present invention.

[0076] According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of conducting a polymer chain scission using the apparatus of the present invention.

[0077] The polymer may comprise one or more of glucose, cellulose, chitin, keratin, and / or derivatives thereof. The polymer may be present in organic matter and / or plant-based or animal-based biomass. The polymer material may comprise one or more of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.

[0078] According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided an apparatus for sparging a fluid comprising: a chamber configured to receive a fluid; a rotary device located in the chamber and configured to contact the fluid; and a drive mechanism for rotating the rotary device, wherein the apparatus comprises a flow path for delivering a gas to the fluid, wherein at least part of the flow path passes through the rotary device. According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of sparging a fluid in an apparatus, the apparatus comprising a chamber and a rotary device located in the chamber, the method comprising: contacting the rotary device with the fluid in the chamber; rotating the rotary device; and introducing a gas into the chamber via at least one flow path, wherein at least part of the flow path passes through the rotary device.

[0079] According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a use of an apparatus according to the present invention for sparging a fluid.

[0080] The chamber is preferably a sparging vessel or sparging container.

[0081] The gas may be a single gas or may comprise a mixture of two or more gases.

[0082] Preferably the gas is an inert gas, and may be one or more of nitrogen, argon, and / or helium. Alternatively, the gas may be air.

[0083] For the avoidance of doubt, embodiments of an aspect of the invention may include one or more features of any of the other aspects of the invention or their embodiments, or vice versa.

[0084] Brief Description of the Drawings

[0085] There will now be described, by way of example only, various embodiments of the invention with reference to the drawings, of which:

[0086] Figure 1 A is a longitudinal sectional view of a reactor apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0087] Figure 1 B is a longitudinal sectional view of a sub-chamber of the reactor apparatus of Figure 1A;

[0088] Figure 2A is an isometric view of a rotary cavitation device of the reactor apparatus of Figures 1A and 1B; Figure 2B is a cutaway view of the rotary cavitation device of Figure 2A;

[0089] Figure 3 is a longitudinal sectional view of a part of a reactor apparatus in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the invention;

[0090] Figure 4 is a longitudinal sectional view of a part of a reactor apparatus in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the invention;

[0091] Figure 5 is a longitudinal sectional view of a reactor apparatus in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the invention; and

[0092] Figure 6 is a longitudinal sectional view of the reactor apparatus of Figure 5.

[0093] Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments

[0094] Rotary Device & Apparatus

[0095] While the rotary device will be referred to as a rotary cavitation device in the following detailed description, it will be appreciated that the rotary device can be used in applications where cavitation is not essential, but can benefit from other advantages of the present invention (e.g. improved delivery of a second material to a first material, and thus improved mixing / dissolution). Similarly, while the apparatus will be referred to as a reactor apparatus (having a reaction chamber) in the following detailed description, it will be appreciated that the apparatus can be used in applications where a chemical or physicochemical reaction is not essential (e.g. gas sparging).

[0096] Referring firstly to Figures 1A and 1B, there is shown a reactor apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Figure 1 A shows the reactor apparatus in longitudinal section, and Figure 1B is an enlarged view of a part of the reactor apparatus. The reactor, generally depicted at 10, is elongated along a longitudinal axis, and comprises a housing 11 defining a reaction chamber 15. A radially oriented inlet 12 is located towards one end of the reaction chamber, and a radially oriented outlet 14 is located at an opposing end. The reaction chamber forms a conduit for material to be treated between the inlet 12 and the outlet 14. The housing 11 is formed from a series of housing modules 20, 22, 24, each joined together by a threaded arrangement to form the housing 11. Reactor housing modules 20 are identical to one another, and are disposed between an inlet module 22 and an outlet module 24, each having respective end caps 26 and 28. Each module 20 defines a sub chamber of the reaction chamber 15, and accommodates a rotary cavitation device 100, 102. The modular nature of the housing structure makes the apparatus scalable to incorporate fewer or greater sub chambers depending on the application and processing resource required.

[0097] The reactor comprises a rotary assembly 50 comprising a primary rotary cavitation device 100 and a plurality of secondary rotary cavitation devices 102. The rotary cavitation devices 100, 102 are mounted on a drive shaft 30, which is connected to a motor 32 (and which together form a drive mechanism).

[0098] Each of the rotary cavitation devices 100, 102 comprises a main body 110, 120 and a plurality of (in this case two) blades 112, 122 extending from the main body. A bore through the main body accommodates the drive shaft so that the rotary devices can be mounted on the drive shaft and secured by, for example, grub screws. The motor is a high torque, high revolutions per minute (RPM) motor with a variable speed drive which enables automatic RPM control for varying fluid properties or flow conditions. The motor is operable to drive the rotary cavitation devices at rotational speeds in excess of 5,000 rpm.

[0099] The primary rotary cavitation device 100 (described in more detail below) is located in the first sub chamber formed by the inlet housing module 22, and is therefore closest to the inlet 12. The secondary rotary cavitation devices 102 are longitudinally spaced along the drive shaft 30 in respective sub chambers towards the outlet 14.

[0100] Support elements 27 are provided between adjacent housing modules, and provide structural support to the housing walls and drive shaft 30 while enabling passage of material through the reactor. Bearing assemblies 29 are provided in a central bore of the support elements 27, through which the drive shaft extends.

[0101] Figure 1 B shows the inlet housing module 22 and the primary rotary cavitation device 100.

[0102] The primary rotary cavitation device 100 is secured to the drive shaft 30, and a distal end 31 of the drive shaft is supported in a bearing assembly 34 mounted in the end cap 26. The drive shaft 30 has, at its distal end, a drive shaft conduit 35 which is coaxial with the drive shaft itself, and extends towards the proximal end of the drive shaft (in this context, distal and proximal are used in relation to the drive motor 32) and the primary rotary cavitation device 100. The conduit 35 is in communication with an inlet 33 of the reaction apparatus, which is located in the end cap 26. The primary rotary cavitation device 100 is mounted over apertures 36 in the drive shaft. The apertures 36 provide fluid communication between the conduit 35 and an interior of the main body of the device 100.

[0103] Figures 2A and 2B are respectively an isometric and an isometric cutaway view of the primary rotary cavitation device 100. The main body 110 is substantially cylindrical, and comprises a throughbore 114 coaxial with the body to enable the device to be mounted to a drive shaft 30. Blades 112 extend from the main body 110 at a first end, which in a typical set up will be oriented towards the upstream end of the reactor. The blades 112 extend radially and axially from the main body, and the blades are therefore inclined at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the rotary cavitation device. Each of the blades 112 extends axially beyond the axial length of the main body. In other embodiments, the device may comprise a single blade or multiple blades greater than two. Each blade 112 has a leading edge 113 and a trailing edge 115 taken in a normal direction of rotation R of the rotary cavitation device.

[0104] The main body defines an interior cavity 116, part of which is shaped and positioned to be located over the apertures 36 in the drive shaft 30. The cavity 116 is therefore in fluid communication with an inlet end of the drive shaft conduit 35 via the apertures. The cavity 116 comprises a first recessed portion 118, which is located substantially centrally along the longitudinal axis of the main body, and is open to the inner diameter of the main body around the drive shaft apertures 36. The main body 110 is sealed against the drive shaft 30 by first and second seal assemblies 128 on opposing sides of the apertures 36 and recessed portion 118.

[0105] The cavity also comprises an annular bore portion 124, which is located in the body portion radially outward of the first recessed portion 118. The annular bore portion 124 overlaps longitudinally with the first recessed portion 118, and extends longitudinally towards an end of the main body. Ports 126 are located between the first recessed portion 118 and the annular bore portion 124. In this case, four ports 126 are provided, arranged circumferentially around the main body.

[0106] The rotary cavitation device 100 also comprises outlets 140, which in this case are located on the blades 112, on the trailing edge 115. An outlet conduit 142 is formed in each blade 112, and provides fluid communication between the annular bore portion 124 and the outlets 140, and functions as a manifold for the multiple outlets 140 of each blade.

[0107] Figure 3 is a longitudinal sectional view of a part of a reactor apparatus in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the invention. The reactor apparatus, generally shown at 200, is similar to the reactor apparatus 10, and comprises like components represented by like reference numerals incremented by 200. The reactor, generally depicted at 200, is elongated along a longitudinal axis, and comprises a housing 211 defining a reaction chamber 215. A radially oriented inlet 212 is located towards one end of the reaction chamber, and a radially oriented outlet (not shown) is located at an opposing end. The reaction chamber forms a conduit for material to be treated between the inlet 212 and the outlet.

[0108] The reactor 200 comprises a rotary assembly 250 comprising rotary cavitation devices 100 mounted on a drive shaft 230. The rotary assembly 250 differs from the rotary assembly 50 of Figures 1A and 1B in that the rotary cavitation devices each define a part of a flow path for a material from an inlet 233 to the reaction chamber 215. Each cavitation device 100 is as shown and described with reference to Figures 2A and 2B, and contains an internal flow path between a main body of the device 100 and outlet located in the blades of the device. The drive shaft conduit 235 is continuous through the drive shaft 230 between a distal end (relative to the motor) and sets of apertures 236 axially displaced along the shaft and providing fluid communication to internal cavities defined by the respective devices 100. In use, the reactor 200 enables delivery of a second material (e.g. ozone gas) to the cavitation sites created by rotation of the assembly 50 at the location of each device.

[0109] Figure 4 is a longitudinal sectional view of a part of a reactor apparatus in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the invention. The reactor apparatus, generally shown at 300, is similar to the reactor apparatus 200, and comprises like components represented by like reference numerals incremented by 100. The reactor 300 comprises a rotary assembly 350 comprising rotary cavitation devices 100 and 102 mounted on a drive shaft 330. The rotary assembly 350 differs from the rotary assembly 250 of Figure 3 in that devices 100 alternate with devices 102, so that alternate rotary cavitation devices define a part of a flow path for a material from an inlet 333 to the reaction chamber 315. Cavitation devices 100 are as shown and described with reference to Figures 2A and 2B, and contain an internal flow path between a main body of the device 100 and outlet located in the blades of the device. Cavitation devices 102 are as shown and described with reference to Figures 1A and 1B, and omit an internal flow path through the device. Although the drive shaft conduit 335 is continuous through the drive shaft 330, sets of apertures 336 are provided at alternate device locations axially displaced along the shaft. In use, the reactor 200 enables delivery of a second material to the cavitation sites created by rotation of the assembly 50 at the location of alternate devices.

[0110] It will be appreciated from the foregoing disclosure that other arrangements of rotary devices are possible within the scope of the invention. Any subset of rotary devices on a rotary assembly may be configured as primary devices having a flow path for introducing a reactant material to the reaction chamber. For example, every third, fourth or other number of devices may be configured as a primary flow path for a reactant material. A single primary rotary device may be provided, or multiple primary rotary devices may be provided in groups, of the same or different numbers within the groups. In addition, although the shaft 330 of Figure 4 shows a continuous bore with apertures located at alternate device locations, apertures could alternatively be provided at each device location, but be effectively sealed off by the use of a secondary rotary device (with no flow path) covering the apertures. Other configurations are possible depending on the desired distribution of the second material in the reaction chamber.

[0111] Reactor housing modules 20, 22 and 24 may incorporate UV light modules in the form of light emitting diodes, bulbs or a combination of both inlaid within the module wall and preferably flush with the inside (reaction-side) surface of the module. These UV light emitting modules may be configured to emit UV light within the UVC spectrum, and may emit light within the 250-300nm range.

[0112] Reactor housing modules 20, 22 and 24 may contain or be surface coated with catalysts that react to UV light, and / or reactive oxygen species, and / or materials introduced within the reactor 10. The whole or selective parts of the rotary assembly 50 may contain or be surface coated with catalysts that react to UV light, and / or reactive oxygen species, and / or materials introduced within the reactor 10.

[0113] The whole or selective parts of the rotary assembly 50 may be heated, cooled, electrically charged, electrostatically charged, magnetically charged, or vibrated through the addition of an externally or internally mounted source.

[0114] Figure 5 is a longitudinal sectional view of a reactor apparatus in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the invention. The reactor apparatus, generally shown at 400, is similar to the reactor apparatus 10, and comprises like components represented by like reference numerals incremented by 400. The reactor, generally depicted at 400, is elongated along a longitudinal axis, and comprises a housing 411 defining a reaction chamber 415. A radially oriented inlet (not shown) is located towards one end of the reaction chamber, and a radially oriented outlet (not shown) is located at an opposing end. The reaction chamber forms a conduit for material to be treated between the inlet and the outlet.

[0115] The reactor 400 differs from the reactor apparatus 10 of Figures 1A and 1 B in that the reactor 400 comprises a plurality of rotary assemblies 450. In this embodiment, four rotary assemblies 450 are provided in the conduit (two are not shown), circumferentially positioned around the longitudinal axis at 90° spacing (although it will be understood that a lesser or greater number of rotary assemblies may be provided in alternative embodiments of the invention). Each rotary assembly 450 comprises rotary cavitation devices 500 mounted on a drive shaft 430.

[0116] Support elements 427 are provided within the housing 411 and between adjacent housing modules 420, and provide structural support to the housing walls and drive shaft 430 while enabling passage of material through the reactor. Bearing assemblies 429 are provided within the support elements 427, through which the drive shafts 430 extend. The support structure of the embodiment in Figure 5 is shown more clearly in Figure 6. The support structure comprises four longitudinal portions 460, which space out the support elements 427 and bearing assemblies 429 within the support structure. The rotary assemblies 450 are adjacent to, and surround, a cylindrical ultraviolet lamp 470. The ultraviolet lamp 470 extends through the reaction chamber 415 in a longitudinal direction, and is positioned within the centre of the conduit. The ultraviolet lamp 470 does not extend the entire longitudinal length of the reaction chamber 415, and it will be appreciated that the ultraviolet lamp 470 can have any suitable length and / or diameter.

[0117] The position of the ultraviolet lamp 470 may be substituted, or additionally include, a cylindrical source that provides a heating, cooling, electric charge, electrostatic charge, magnetic charge and / or vibration effect. The vibration effect may be induced through the use of an ultrasonic transducer configured to operate so that it causes an additional cavitation effect within the reactor 400. The ultrasonic transducer may be operating at vibration frequencies in the 20-120 kHz range.

[0118] Alternatively, or additionally, the reactor housing modules 420 may comprise UV light modules in the form of light emitting diodes, bulbs or a combination of both inlaid within the module wall and preferably flush with the inside (reaction-side) surface of the module.

[0119] Alternatively, or additionally, the reactor housing modules 420 may comprise photocatalyst coatings on the inside (reaction-side) surface of the module.

[0120] In alternative embodiments, instead of an ultraviolet lamp, the UV source may be any of the UV sources hereinbefore describes.

[0121] Uses

[0122] There are several uses of the apparatus of the present invention. While several will be discussed below, they are provided as examples and the present invention is not limited as such.

[0123] Treatment of Organic Matter

[0124] One of the applications of the present invention is for the treatment of materials with high viscosity and / or high solid content, such as slurries, and will be described in the context of treating organic matter containing a high proportion of solids in an advanced oxidation process reaction. It is known to use advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) to treat industrial effluents and wastewaters generated as a by-product from industrial operations such as chemical manufacturing or processing, food and beverage production, and the oil and gas industry. AOPs treat waste water through interactions with reactive oxygen species such as hydroxyl radicals (*OH), and are useful for a number of reasons, including the high reactivity of hydroxyl radicals and their applicability in oxidising a range of organic and inorganic contaminants; their ability to treat organic compounds directly when in an aqueous phase; and the absence of additional hazardous substances or waste streams. Injectors or bubble delivery systems have previously been used in the art to introduce the reactive oxygen species into the fluids being treated.

[0125] A principle of the present invention is to provide a flow path for a reactant to a cavitation zone. In one embodiment, a flow path to the reaction chamber is provided through the rotary cavitation device 100, via the drive shaft conduit 35 and apertures 36 in the drive shaft 30, a cavity 116 in the main body 110, one or more outlet conduits 142, and outlets 140 to the reaction chamber located in the blades 112. In use, a first material (in this case, organic matter containing a high proportion of solids) is pumped or otherwise conveyed into the reactor apparatus 10 via the inlet 12. The rotary assembly 50 including the rotary cavitation devices 100, 102 is driven to rotate at high rotational speed to induce cavitation in the first material within the reaction chamber.

[0126] In this embodiment, the rotary assembly is configured to induce cavitation. Cavitation effects may be optimised by design of the rotary elements, by operating the motor assembly in regimes which induce cavitation for a particular rotary element design or by a combination of the design and operational factors. With appropriate selection of a drive motor and gearbox, high rotational speeds can be imparted to the rotary elements. In preferred embodiments, the blade elements are rotated at a speed in excess of 5,000 rpm. The preferred operating range of the blades may be in the region of 10,000 to 30,000 rpm, and in some cases, may be in the excess of 30,000 rpm.

[0127] While the assembly is rotated, a second material (which in this case is ozone gas) is pumped or otherwise conveyed into the reaction chamber via the inlet 33 and the flow path, so that it is delivered to the cavitation zone. The inventors have surprisingly found that introducing and / or mixing two reactant materials in the presence of cavitation is beneficial to the efficiency and effectiveness of a range of reaction processes, including the treatment of organic matter. In particular, the use of cavitation aids pathogen destruction, the decomposition of organic compounds of low biodegradability or recalcitrant materials, reduces particle size of solids within materials, reduces material viscosity and also enhances the interactions between immiscible liquids resulting in an acceleration of chemical reactions or process intensification (including reactions resulting from other AOPs). There are particular advantages in advanced oxidation process reactions involving reactive oxygen species in bringing the reactive species together in a cavitation zone, close to or at a contact surface between a cavitation device and a reactant material. Cavitation can, for example, increase the dissolution of ozone in a material being treated, increasing its effective time in an ozone-based AOP reaction. Previous proposals to introduce gaseous reactants into liquids using Venturi injectors are not always effective where the material processed is highly viscous and / or has a high solid content, such as may be the case in the treatment of organic matter and / or plant-based or animal-based biomass, including food waste, lignocellulosic biomass, and chitinous and keratinous-based matter.

[0128] The inventors have determined that it is advantageous in some reaction processes to provide high intensity cavitation at axially separated locations. The secondary rotary devices 102 are of a similar external form to the primary rotary devices 100, having a main body 120 and a pair of blades 122 extending radially and axially from the main body. The devices 102 are rotated on the drive shaft 30 and are also designed to induce cavitation in the materials being treated. In the embodiment of Figures 1A and 1 B, only one primary rotary device, having a delivery flow path for a second material, is provided. However, high intensity cavitation induced by the rotary assembly can be used to create cloud cavitation at multiple axial locations in the reaction chamber.

[0129] Photocatalytic Reactions

[0130] The inventors have found that the apparatus of the present invention, particularly the embodiment depicted in Figure 5 which induces cavitation in a fluid in the presence of ultraviolet radiation, improves the efficiency and effectiveness of photocatalytic reactions (i.e. reactions which involve an interaction with a UV light source). Examples of such reactions are described in WO2016075493, which is incorporated herein by reference. Synthesis of Methanol

[0131] Methanol is an important chemical with several commercial uses, including as an energy carrier. This is because methanol, as a liquid, is easier and less costly to store and transport than hydrogen in a gaseous form, including compressed and cryogenic storage systems. Additionally, methanol has ready biodegradability and low environmental toxicity.

[0132] It is known that methanol can be synthesised from methane and hydrogen peroxide in a cavitation field (O.B. Tselishchev, Ayodeji Ijagbuji, M.H. Loriya, Vanadii Nosach. Chemistry & Chemical Technology. 2018, 12, 69-73). It is also known that biogas fuel (which comprises primarily methane and carbon dioxide) can be produced from a feedstock derived from a bacterial digestion process of organic matter. Therefore, by combining the two steps, a biological process for the production of methanol is obtained. Thus, methanol formed this way could be considered a biomass-derived fuel.

[0133] However, the degree of methane conversion in the above-mentioned paper by Tselishchev et al. is only approximately 10%. Thus, there is a need for a method having an improved yield. The apparatus of the present invention, with its associated benefits pertaining to cavitation, can be used for this reaction. The first material may be liquid or aqueous hydrogen peroxide, and the second material may be gaseous methane. It is envisaged that by delivering the second material (i.e. gaseous methane) directly to a cavitation site, the reaction efficiency would improve, and the methanol yield would increase.

[0134] Gas Purification

[0135] A related use, which preferably involves the above-mentioned conversion of methane to methanol, is that of a gas purification device.

[0136] When biogas is created in an anaerobic reactor it typically comprises 2 main gases: methane and carbon dioxide. Both these gases are produced by anaerobic bacteria from digestion of the organic matter introduced into the anaerobic reactor, and both gasses are produced in roughly equal parts. Once biogas is ready to be used it typically goes through a combined heat-power generator, where the raw biogas (containing carbon dioxide and methane) can be combusted to make electricity and heat. Alternatively, the raw biogas is purified using filtration and membrane processes to achieve 90-percentiles in methane purity. At this point, the purified methane can either be compressed and bottled to be used in (for example) transport vehicles, or injected into national gas grids.

[0137] It is envisaged that the apparatus of the present invention would be an effective gas purification device. Raw biogas could be introduced into the reactor (as the first material) while circulating hydrogen peroxide (as the second material). It is expected that some of the methane would be converted into methanol, thereby increasing the relative percentage of carbon dioxide to methane in an unreacted gas mixture post reactor.

[0138] By recirculating or re-introducing this unreacted gas mixture back through the reactor, the relative percentage of methane could be progressively reduced to near zero, resulting in a purified carbon dioxide stream.

[0139] A similar method could be used to increase the relative percentage of carbon dioxide, and decrease the relative percentage of methane, in raw bio-hythane (which comprises a blend of hydrogen, methane and carbon dioxide).

[0140] Polymer Scission

[0141] Polymer scission is the process by which polymer chains are broken at random points in the backbone to form two smaller fragments. This process can be promoted by thermal stress (heat) or ionising radiation (e.g. light, UV radiation or gamma radiation).

[0142] It is envisaged that the apparatus of the present invention would be effective at breaking down long chain polymers, such as glucose, cellulose, chitin, keratin, proteins, lipids and / or derivatives thereof. This process may occur during the above-mentioned treatment of organic matter and / or slurries. It is believed that the effects of cavitation would promote polymer scission.

[0143] Continuous Flow Polymerisation There are many known benefits associated with conducting a polymerisation in a flow reactor (compared to a batch reactor), including improved safety (due to better heat dissipation) and straightforward scalability. It is envisaged that the apparatus of the present invention could be used as a flow reactor for a polymerisation. For example, the first material could comprise an initiator and solvent, and the second material could comprise monomer. As such, the monomer could be delivered to the first material at various points along the length of the reactor, thus providing precise control over the polymerisation process.

[0144] Formation of Nanoemulsions & Nanobubbles

[0145] Nanoemulsions are heterogeneous dispersions of water-in-oil or oil-in-water, stabilised through a suitable emulsifier, commonly made from vegetable or animal oils.

[0146] Nanoemulsions are typically less than 200 nm in size.

[0147] Nanobubbles are nanometre-sized gas bubbles. Nanobubbles are thermodynamically metastable for many months or even longer, in contrast to micron-sized bubbles which have a considerably shorter lifetime. Thus, nanobubbles have enhanced gas-transfer properties and greater industrial potential.

[0148] It is envisaged that both nanoemulsions and nanobubbles could be formed using the apparatus of the present invention.

[0149] Precipitation of Nanoparticles

[0150] Precipitation from solution is one of the most widely used methods for preparing nanoparticles with monodisperse size distributions, at least partially due to the ease of use. The inventors have found that the apparatus of the present invention, and particularly those aspects which promote cavitation, is effective at preparing nanoparticles. For example, the inventors have surprisingly found that the apparatus of the present invention can be used to mix, and then precipitate out, carbon black and titanium dioxide to prepare nanoparticles of carbon-titanium dioxide photocatalyst. The inventors have also found that these photocatalytic nanoparticles can subsequently be blended with other materials, such as plastics. Conversion of Petroleum to Graphene

[0151] It is known, for example in WO 2019 / 150124, that petrochemical feedstocks can be converted into graphene using hydrodynamic cavitation techniques. Thus, in view of the above-mentioned benefits of the present invention, it is envisaged that the apparatus of the present invention would be particularly effective at preparing graphene using these techniques.

[0152] Gas Sparging

[0153] Sparging is a technique in which a gas is bubbled through a liquid in order to remove one or more other dissolved gases and / or dissolved volatile liquids from that liquid. In applications where solvent is to be removed from a liquid, air may be used as the sparing gas. In applications where oxygen is to be removed from a liquid, a chemically inert gas (such as nitrogen, argon, or helium) may be used. It is envisaged that the rotary device of the present invention would be particularly effective at introducing gas bubbles to a fluid, and thus would improve the process of sparging.

[0154] The invention relates to a rotary device, apparatus and methods of use. The apparatus comprises a chamber configured to receive a first material (e.g. organic matter) and a rotary device located in the chamber and configured to contact the first material. A drive mechanism rotates the rotary device. The apparatus comprises a flow path for delivering a second material (e.g. ozone) to the first material, wherein at least part of the flow path passes through the rotary device.

[0155] The invention provides an apparatus and / or method which obviates or mitigates one or more drawbacks or disadvantages of prior art apparatus and methods by providing a flow path through a rotary device, optionally to a cavitation site. There results a reactor and method of use suitable for a wide range of industrial processes, particularly those which involve the mixing of two or more materials. In one particular application, the apparatus and method of use are suitable for the treatment and / or processing of high viscosity liquids or slurries and improves the efficiency, effectiveness or capacity of an advanced oxidation process reaction.

[0156] Variations to the above-described embodiments are within the scope of the claims.

Claims

Claims:

1. A rotary device comprising: a main body portion defining an interior cavity; and one or more blades on the main body portion, wherein at least one of the one or more blades comprises one or more outlets in fluid communication with the interior cavity.

2. An apparatus for mixing two or more materials, comprising: a chamber configured to receive a first material; a rotary device according to Claim 1 located in the chamber and configured to contact the first material; and a drive mechanism for rotating the rotary device, wherein the apparatus comprises a flow path for delivering a second material to the first material, wherein at least part of the flow path passes through the rotary device.

3. The apparatus according to Claim 2, wherein the rotary device comprises one or more bores or conduits for the second material.

4. The apparatus according to Claim 2 or Claim 3, wherein the flow path passes through the main body portion and at least one of the blades.

5. The apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the one or more outlets of the flow path is disposed in a contact surface or interface between the rotary device and the first material.

6. The apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the chamber comprises at least one inlet and at least one outlet, and is at least partially configured as a conduit having a longitudinal axis, wherein at least a part of the drive mechanism is oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis of the chamber.

7. The apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the drive mechanism comprises a motor and a drive shaft.

8. The apparatus according to Claim 7, wherein the flow path comprises a drive shaft conduit, and the drive shaft conduit is fluidly coupled to the body of the rotary device.

9. The apparatus according to Claim 8, wherein the flow path comprises the drive shaft conduit, one or more apertures in the drive shaft, a cavity in the main body portion, inner apertures, a first bore portion in the main body portion, one or more second bore portions located in the one or more, and outlets to the chamber.

10. The apparatus according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the apparatus comprises at least one support element disposed part way along the chamber, wherein the support element supports the drive shaft a partway along the length of the drive shaft.

11. The apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 10, wherein the chamber comprises a chamber housing, wherein the chamber housing comprises at least one housing module.

12. The apparatus according to Claim 11 , wherein the chamber housing comprises a plurality of housing modules assembled together, optionally in series, to form the chamber.

13. The apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 12, wherein the apparatus comprises a plurality of rotary devices spatially separated along an elongated chamber.

14. The apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 13, wherein the rotary device is a rotary cavitation device, and the drive mechanism is configured to rotate the rotary cavitation device at a speed sufficient to induce cavitation in the first material at a cavitation site.

15. The apparatus according to Claim 14, wherein the apparatus is a reactor apparatus for a chemical and / or physico-chemical reaction, and the chamber is a reaction chamber.

16. The apparatus according to Claim 15, wherein the reaction chamber comprises at least one source of ultraviolet radiation.

17. The apparatus according to Claim 16, wherein the reaction chamber comprises an ultraviolet lamp which extends through the reaction chamber in a longitudinal direction.

18. The apparatus according to any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein the reaction chamber is pressurised, heated, cooled, electrically charged, electrostatically charged, magnetically charged, and / or vibrated.

19. A method of carrying out a chemical and / or physico-chemical reaction between a first material and a second material in a reactor apparatus according to any one of claims 15 to 18, the method comprising: contacting the rotary cavitation device with the first material in the reaction chamber; rotating the rotary cavitation device at a speed sufficient to induce cavitation in the first material; and introducing the second material into the reaction chamber via at least one flow path, wherein at least part of the flow path passes through the rotary cavitation device.

20. The method according to Claim 19, wherein the first material comprises a liquid and the second material comprises a gas.

21. Use of a reactor apparatus according to any one of claims 15 to 18 for carrying out a chemical and / or physico-chemical reaction between a first material and a second material.

22. A method of sparging a fluid in an apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 14, the method comprising: contacting the rotary device with the fluid in the chamber; rotating the rotary device; and introducing a gas into the chamber via at least one flow path, wherein at least part of the flow path passes through the rotary device.

23. Use of an apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 14 for sparging a fluid.

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