Systems and methods for using chemical processes to create carbon neutral cation carbonates, and other products from biogenic carbon dioxide sources

Abstract

The following relates generally to systems and methods for using chemical reactions, electrodialysis of cation-containing brines, such as NaCl and biogenic carbon dioxide sources, such as seawater, to create net-zero cation carbonates, such as soda ash, and / or carbon dioxide gas with an acid such as HC1 as byproduct for sales and / or further use.

Description

SYSTEM FOR USING CHEMICAL PROCESSES TO CREATE CARBON NEUTRAL CATION CARBONATES, AND OTHER PRODUCTS FROM CARBON DIOXIDE SOURCESCROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 622,865, entitled “SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR USING CHEMICAL PROCESSES TO CREATE CARBON NEUTRAL CATION CARBONATES, AND OTHER PRODUCTS FROM BIOGENIC CARBON DIOXIDE SOURCES” (filed January 19, 2024), the entirety of which is incorporated by reference herein.FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to systems and methods for using chemical reactions, including but not limited to, electrodialysis of cation-containing brines, such as NaCl and biogenic carbon dioxide sources, such as seawater, to create net-zero cation carbonates, such as soda ash, carbon dioxide gas and / or bicarbonate with an acid such as HO as byproduct for sales and / or further use.BACKGROUND

[0003] Existing processes for producing the cation carbonates and acids, including but not limited to (i) soda ash, (ii) bicarbonate, and / or (iii) hydrochloric acid may have drawbacks. Drawbacks include, but are not limited to:• the current source(s) for production are not renewable and are carbon intensive (e.g., mining of limestone to generate carbon dioxide).• reductions in oil refining will likely trigger sulfur shortages, and thus a lack of sulfuric acid for industrial purposes.• current processes are net acidifiers of the environment reducing the environment’s ability to absorb and store carbon dioxide, contributing to climate change.

[0004] The systems and methods disclosed herein provide solutions to these problems and may provide solutions to the ineffectiveness, insecurities, difficulties, inefficiencies, encumbrances, and / or other drawbacks of conventional techniques. Including, but not limited to, the ability to use biogenic carbon dioxide sources in place of limestone to produce cationcarbonates, e.g., carbon dioxide liberated from seawater, as well as the ability to utilise renewable sources for almost all energy requirements, e.g., electrodialysis to create acid and base solutions.SUMMARY

[0005] In some embodiments, a system for creating soda ash and / or bicarbonate may be provided. For example, in one instance, the system may comprise: an chemical reaction station, configured to initiate an electrochemical reaction using electricity to rearrange a first portion of seawater into an acidic solution and a basic solution; a pH manipulation station, downstream of the chemical reaction station, configured to mix a second portion of the seawater with a first portion of the acidic solution from the chemical reaction station, wherein mixing the seawater and the acidic solution produces acidified seawater and converts dissolved bicarbonate to carbon dioxide gas (or bicarbonate gas); an extraction station, downstream of the pH manipulation station, configured to capture the carbon dioxide gas by heating and / or mixing the carbon dioxide gas in a stripping column; a reaction station, downstream of the extraction station and the chemical reaction station, wherein the reaction station includes: a first reactor configured to combine the carbon dioxide gas from the extraction station with the basic solution from the chemical reaction station; and a calcinator, downstream of the first reactor, configured to heat the combined carbon dioxide gas and basic solution to produce soda ash, and route the soda ash to a reservoir.

[0006] In some embodiments, the reaction station may further include: a second reactor, downstream of the calcinator, configured to react a waste bicarbonate and water solution with soda ash to produce sodium bicarbonate, and route the sodium bicarbonate to the reservoir. Additionally or alternatively, the system may further comprise: a condenser, downstream of the reaction station, configured to separate excess waste bicarbonate and water solution from the calcinator into excess carbon dioxide gas and excess water; and an excess compressor, downstream of the condenser, configured to compress the excess carbon dioxide gas and route a first portion of the compressed excess carbon dioxide gas back to the extraction station. Additionally or alternatively, the excess compressor may be further configured to route a second portion of the excess carbon dioxide gas to the reservoir.

[0007] In some embodiments, the chemical reaction station may be configured to route a second portion of the acidic solution to the reservoir. In other embodiments, the system may further comprise: an alkalinization station, downstream of the chemical reaction station and the pH manipulation station, configured to combine excess basic solution from the chemical reaction station with the acidified seawater from the pH manipulation station to produce alkaline water. In other embodiments, the extraction station further includes: a purifier configured to purify the carbon dioxide gas to at least 99 percent purity; and a bicarbonate compressor configured to compress the carbon dioxide gas. The system may be configured to include additional, less, or alternate functionality, including that discussed elsewhere herein.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Advantages will become more apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description of the preferred embodiments which have been shown and described by way of illustration. As will be realized, the present embodiments may be capable of other and different embodiments, and their details are capable of modification in various respects. Accordingly, the drawings and description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not as restrictive.

[0009] The figures described below depict various aspects of the applications, methods, and systems disclosed herein. It should be understood that each figure depicts an embodiment of a particular aspect of the disclosed applications, systems and methods, and that each of the figures is intended to accord with a possible embodiment thereof. Furthermore, wherever possible, the following description refers to the reference numerals included in the following figures, in which features depicted in multiple figures are designated with consistent reference numerals.

[0010] Figure 1 depicts an exemplary system for using electrodialysis to create, inter alia, (i) soda ash, (ii) bicarbonate, and / or (iii) hydrochloric acid.

[0011] Figure 2A depicts an exemplary process for using electrodialysis to create soda ash and hydrochloric acid.

[0012] Figure 2B depicts an exemplary process for using electrodialysis to create soda ash, hydrochloric acid, and alkaline water.

[0013] Figure 2C depicts another exemplary process for using electrodialysis to create soda ash and sodium bicarbonate.

[0014] Figure 2D depicts an exemplary process for using electrodialysis to create soda ash, sodium bicarbonate, hydrochloric acid, and alkaline water.

[0015] Figure 2E depicts an exemplary process for using electrodialysis to create soda ash, sodium bicarbonate, carbon dioxide, and alkaline water.

[0016] Figure 3 depicts an exemplary method for using electrodialysis to create soda ash.

[0017] Figure 4 depicts example information of an example electrolysis process.

[0018] Figure 5 depicts example information of additional example electrolysis processes.

[0019] Figure 6 depicts example information of additional example electrolysis processes.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] Figure 1 depicts an exemplary system 100 for using electrodialysis to create, inter alia, (i) soda ash, (ii) bicarbonate, and / or (iii) hydrochloric acid. The exemplary system 100 may include seawater intake 110, a chemical reaction mechanism 120 (such as electrodialysis mechanism), a pH manipulation mechanism 130, a bicarbonate extraction mechanism 140, a reaction mechanism 150, a compressor 160, a reservoir 170, an alkalinization mechanism 180, and a water outtake 190.

[0021] In some embodiments, the seawater intake 110 may be configured to draw seawater in from the ocean either directly or by utilizing the pumping infrastructure of other industries (e.g., desalination, sewage, nuclear cooling water, etc.). The seawater intake 110 may be configured to route a portion of the seawater to the chemical reaction mechanism 120. The seawater intake 110 may additionally or alternatively, be configured to route a separate portion of the seawater to the pH manipulation mechanism 130.

[0022] In some embodiments, the chemical reaction mechanism 120 may be configured to initiate an electrochemical reaction to rearrange the water and salt molecules of the seawater from seawater intake 110 into an acidic (HCL) solution and a basic (NaOH) solution. The chemical reaction mechanism 120 may, additionally or alternatively, be configured to route the acidic solution to the pH manipulation mechanism 130, route the basic solution to the reaction mechanism 150, and route any excess basic solution to the alkalinization mechanism 180.

[0023] In some embodiments, the pH manipulation mechanism 130 may be configured to mix seawater from the seawater intake 110 with the basic solution from the chemical reaction mechanism 120 to produce acidified water (e.g., pH raised to ~4) which converts the bicarbonate (CO2) dissolved in the seawater to gas. The pH manipulation mechanism 130 may, additionally or alternatively, be configured to route the carbon dioxide gas to the bicarbonate extraction mechanism 140 and route any waste acidified seawater to the alkalinization mechanism 180 and / or the water outtake 190.

[0024] In some embodiments, the bicarbonate extraction mechanism 140 may be configured to capture the carbon dioxide gas by heating and / or mixing the carbon dioxide gas in a bicarbonate stripping column. The bicarbonate extraction mechanism 140 may, additionally or alternatively, include a purifying mechanism and an excess compressor. The purifying mechanism may be configured to purify the carbon dioxide gas to a preset level of purity (e.g., 99 percent, etc.). The excess compressor may be configured to compress the purified carbon dioxide gas and route the purified carbon dioxide gas to the reaction mechanism 150.

[0025] In some embodiments, the reaction mechanism 150 may include a first reactor, a calcinator, and a second reactor. The first reactor may be configured to combine the basic solution from the chemical reaction mechanism 120 with the carbon dioxide gas from the bicarbonate extraction mechanism 140. The calcinator may be configured to heat this combined solution of the basic solution and the carbon dioxide gas in order to produce soda ash (Na2CO3). The calcinator may, additionally or alternatively, be configured to route the soda ash to the reservoir 170. The second reactor may be configured to react a waste carbon dioxide gas and water (H2O) solution with soda ash to produce sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3). The second reactor may, additionally or alternatively, be configured to route the sodium bicarbonate to the reservoir 170.

[0026] In some embodiments, the compressor 160 may be configured to compress excess carbon dioxide gas from the reaction mechanism 150 and route the carbon dioxide gas back into the feed stream of the bicarbonate extraction mechanism 140.

[0027] In some embodiments, the reservoir 170 may be configured to store a plurality of substances simultaneously, and separately, including carbon dioxide gas, sodium bicarbonate,soda ash, hydrochloric acid, and / or any other substance related to the systems and methods disclosed herein.

[0028] In some embodiments, the alkalinization mechanism 180 may be configured to combine the waste acidified seawater from the pH manipulation mechanism 130 with the excess basic solution from the chemical reaction mechanism 120 to produce alkaline water (z.e., pH lowered to ~9). The alkalinization mechanism 180 may, additionally or alternatively, be configured to route the alkaline water to the water outtake 190.

[0029] In some embodiments, the water outtake 190 may be configured to return either the acidified seawater from the pH manipulation mechanism 130 and / or the alkaline water from the alkalinization mechanism 180 back to the ocean.

[0030] It should be appreciated that any of the elements of Figure 1 (and also Figures 2A-2E described below) may include any suitable components for, among other things, routing outputs. For example, pipes, valves, control mechanisms for the valves (e.g., one or more processors, one or more memories, etc.), etc. may be included in any of the include seawater intake 110, chemical reaction mechanism 120, pH manipulation mechanism 130, bicarbonate extraction mechanism 140, reaction mechanism 150, compressor 160, reservoir 170, alkalinization mechanism 180, and / or water outtake 190.

[0031] Figure 2A depicts an exemplary process 200a for using electrodialysis to create soda ash and hydrochloric acid. The exemplary process 200a may include seawater intake 212, a brine reservoir 214, a freshwater reservoir 216, a seawater reservoir 218a, a chemical reaction station 220, a pH manipulation station 222, a bicarbonate extraction station 224, a first reactor 226, outflow pipes 228, a calcinator 230, a condenser 232, a compressor 234, a reservoir 240a, and a desalination station 250.

[0032] In some embodiments, the seawater intake 212 e.g., seawater intake 110) may be configured to draw seawater in from the ocean either directly or by utilizing the pumping infrastructure of other industries (e.g., desalination, sewage, nuclear cooling water, etc.). The seawater intake 212 may, additionally or alternatively, be configured to route a portion of the seawater to the brine reservoir 214. The seawater intake 212 may, additionally or alternatively, be configured to route a separate portion of the seawater to the desalination station 250.

[0033] In some embodiments, the brine reservoir 214 may be configured to store seawater from seawater intake 212, and subsequently route a portion of the seawater to the chemical reaction station 220 and route a separate portion of the seawater to the pH manipulation station 222.

[0034] In some embodiments, the chemical reaction station 220 (e.g., the chemical reaction mechanism 120, such as an electrodialysis mechanism), such as an electrodialysis station, may be configured to initiate an electrochemical reaction in order to rearrange the salt and water molecules in the seawater from seawater intake 212 into a basic solution (NaOH) and an acidic solution (HCL). The chemical reaction station 220 may, additionally or alternatively, be configured to route the basic solution to the first reactor 226. The chemical reaction station 220 may, additionally or alternatively, be configured to route a portion of the acidic solution to the pH manipulation station 222 and route a separate portion of the acidic solution to the reservoir 240a.

[0035] In some embodiments, the pH manipulation station 222 (e.g., the pH manipulation mechanism 130) may be configured to combine the portion of seawater from the brine reservoir 214 and the acidic solution from the chemical reaction station 220 to produce acidified seawater (e.g., pH of the seawater is raised to about 4pH, etc.). In combining the seawater and the acidic solution the bicarbonate dissolved in the seawater is converted into a gas. The pH manipulation station 222 may, additionally or alternatively, be configured to route the combined solution to the bicarbonate extraction station 224.

[0036] In some embodiments, the bicarbonate extraction station 224 (e.g., the bicarbonate extraction mechanism 140) may be configured to capture the carbon dioxide gas by heating and / or mixing the carbon dioxide gas in a stripping column. Once separated, the bicarbonate extraction station 224 may be configured to route the carbon dioxide gas to the first reactor 226 and route the acidified wastewater to the outflow pipes 228.

[0037] In some embodiments, the outflow pipes 228 may be configured to route the acidified wastewater from the bicarbonate extraction station 224 to the seawater reservoir 218a.

[0038] In some embodiments, the first reactor 226 (e.g., the first reactor of the reaction mechanism 150) may be configured to combine the carbon dioxide gas from the bicarbonate extraction station 224 with the basic solution from the chemical reaction station 220.

[0039] In some embodiments, the calcinator 230 (e.g., the calcinator of the reaction mechanism 150) may be configured to heat the combined carbon dioxide gas and basic solution to produce soda ash (Na2CO3) and a byproduct solution of bicarbonate and water (H20). The calcinator 230 may, additionally or alternatively, be configured to route the soda ash to the reservoir 240a and route the bicarbonate and water solution to the condenser 232.

[0040] In some embodiments, the condenser 232 may be configured to separate the bicarbonate and water solution from the calcinator 230 into excess carbon dioxide gas and excess water. The condenser 232 may, additionally or alternatively, be configured to route the carbon dioxide gas to the compressor 234 and route the excess water to the seawater reservoir 218a.

[0041] In some embodiments, the compressor 234 e.g., the compressor 160) may be configured to compress the excess carbon dioxide gas from the condenser 232 and route the compressed excess carbon dioxide gas back to the bicarbonate extraction station 224.

[0042] In some embodiments, the reservoir 240a (e.g., the reservoir 170) may be configured to contain and store the soda ash from the calcinator 230 and the acidic solution from the chemical reaction station 220. The reservoir 240a contains the products of the process 200a that are for commercial use.

[0043] The desalination station 250 may be configured to desalinate seawater from the seawater intake 212 and route the desalinated water to the freshwater reservoir 216.

[0044] Figure 2B depicts an exemplary process 200b for using electrodialysis to create soda ash, hydrochloric acid, and alkaline water. The exemplary process 200b may include seawater intake 212, a brine reservoir 214, a freshwater reservoir 216, an alkaline reservoir 218b, an chemical reaction station 220, a pH manipulation station 222, a bicarbonate extraction station 224, a first reactor 226, outflow pipes 228, a calcinator 230, a condenser 232, a compressor 234, a reservoir 240b, and a desalination station 250.

[0045] In some embodiments, the chemical reaction station 220 (e.g., the electrodialysis mechanism 120) may be configured to initiate an electrochemical reaction in order to rearrange the salt and water molecules in the seawater from seawater intake 212 into a basic solution (NaOH) and an acidic solution (HCL). The chemical reaction station 220 may, additionally or alternatively, be configured to route a portion of the basic solution to the first reactor 226 androute a separate portion of the basic solution to the outflow pipes 228. The chemical reaction station 220 may, additionally or alternatively, be configured to route a portion of the acidic solution to the pH manipulation station 222 and route a separate portion of the acidic solution to the reservoir 240b.

[0046] In some embodiments, the outflow pipes 228 may be configured to combine the acidified wastewater from the bicarbonate extraction station 224 with the portion of the basic solution from the chemical reaction station 220 in order to raise the pH of the acidified seawater to about 9pH to produce alkaline water. The outflow pipes 228 may, additionally or alternatively, be configured to route the alkaline water to the alkaline reservoir 218b for commercial use.

[0047] In some embodiments, the reservoir 240b (e.g., the reservoir 170) may be configured to contain and store the soda ash from the calcinator 230 and the acidic solution from the chemical reaction station 220. The reservoir 240a contains the products of the process 200b that are for commercial use.

[0048] Figure 2C depicts an exemplary process 200c for using electrodialysis to create soda ash and sodium bicarbonate. The exemplary process 200c may include seawater intake 212, a brine reservoir 214, a freshwater reservoir 216, a seawater reservoir 218a, an chemical reaction station 220, a pH manipulation station 222, a bicarbonate extraction station 224, a first reactor 226, outflow pipes 228, a calcinator 230, a condenser 232, a compressor 234, a second reactor 236, a reservoir 240c, and a desalination station 250.

[0049] In some embodiments, the chemical reaction station 220 (e.g., the electrodialysis mechanism 120) may be configured to initiate an electrochemical reaction in order to rearrange the salt and water molecules in the seawater from seawater intake 212 into a basic solution (NaOH) and an acidic solution (HCL). The chemical reaction station 220 may, additionally or alternatively, be configured to route the basic solution to the first reactor 226. The chemical reaction station 220 may, additionally or alternatively, be configured to route the acidic solution to the pH manipulation station 222.

[0050] In some embodiments, the outflow pipes 228 may be configured to route the acidified wastewater from the bicarbonate extraction station 224 to the seawater reservoir 218a.

[0051] In some embodiments, the first reactor 226 (e.g., the first reactor of the reaction mechanism 150) may be configured to combine the carbon dioxide gas from the bicarbonate extraction station 224 with the basic solution from the chemical reaction station 220.

[0052] In some embodiments, the calcinator 230 (e.g., the calcinator of the reaction mechanism 150) may be configured to heat the combined carbon dioxide gas and basic solution to produce soda ash (Na2CO3) and a byproduct solution of bicarbonate and water (H20). The calcinator 230 may, additionally or alternatively, be configured to route a portion of the soda ash to the reservoir 240c and route a separate portion of the soda ash the second reactor 236. The calcinator 230 may, additionally or alternatively, be configured to route a portion of the bicarbonate and water solution to the condenser 232 and route a portion of the bicarbonate and water solution to the second reactor 236.

[0053] In some embodiments, the second reactor 236 may be configured to react the bicarbonate and water solution from the calcinator 230 with the soda ash from the calcinator 230 to produce sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3). The second reactor 236 may, additionally or alternatively, be configured to route the sodium bicarbonate to the reservoir 240c.

[0054] In some embodiments, the reservoir 240c (e.g., the reservoir 170) may be configured to contain and store the soda ash from the calcinator 230 and the sodium bicarbonate from the second reactor 236. The reservoir 240a contains the products of the process 200c that are for commercial use.

[0055] Figure 2D depicts an exemplary process 200d for using electrodialysis to create soda ash, sodium bicarbonate, hydrochloric acid, and alkaline water. The exemplary process 200d may include seawater intake 212, a brine reservoir 214, a freshwater reservoir 216, an alkaline reservoir 218b, an chemical reaction station 220, a pH manipulation station 222, a bicarbonate extraction station 224, a first reactor 226, outflow pipes 228, a calcinator 230, a condenser 232, a compressor 234, a second reactor 236, a reservoir 240d, and a desalination station 250.

[0056] In some embodiments, the chemical reaction station 220 (e.g., the chemical reaction mechanism 120) may be configured to initiate an electrochemical reaction in order to rearrange the salt and water molecules in the seawater from seawater intake 212 into a basic solution (NaOH) and an acidic solution (HCL). The chemical reaction station 220 may, additionally or alternatively, be configured to route a portion of the basic solution to the first reactor 226 androute a separate portion of the basic solution to the outflow pipes 228. The chemical reaction station 220 may, additionally or alternatively, be configured to route a portion of the acidic solution to the pH manipulation station 222 and route a separate portion of the acidic solution to the reservoir 240b.

[0057] In some embodiments, the outflow pipes 228 may be configured to combine the acidified wastewater from the bicarbonate extraction station 224 with the portion of the basic solution from the chemical reaction station 220 in order to raise the pH of the acidified seawater to about 9pH to accordingly produce alkaline water. The outflow pipes 228 may, additionally or alternatively, be configured to route the alkaline water to the alkaline reservoir 218b for commercial use.

[0058] In some embodiments, the calcinator 230 (e.g., the calcinator of the reaction mechanism 150) may be configured to heat the combined carbon dioxide gas and basic solution to produce soda ash (Na2CO3) and a byproduct solution of bicarbonate and water (H20). The calcinator 230 may, additionally or alternatively, be configured to route a portion of the soda ash to the reservoir 240d and route a separate portion of the soda ash the second reactor 236. The calcinator 230 may, additionally or alternatively, be configured to route a portion of the bicarbonate and water solution to the condenser 232 and route a portion of the bicarbonate and water solution to the second reactor 236.

[0059] In some embodiments, the second reactor 236 may be configured to react the bicarbonate and water solution from the calcinator 230 with the soda ash from the calcinator 230 to produce sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3). The second reactor 236 may, additionally or alternatively, be configured to route the sodium bicarbonate to the reservoir 240d.

[0060] In some embodiments, the reservoir 240d (e.g., the reservoir 170) may be configured to contain and store the soda ash from the calcinator 230, the sodium bicarbonate from the second reactor 236, and the acidic solution from the chemical reaction station 220. The reservoir 240d contains the products of the process 200d that are for commercial use.

[0061] Figure 2E depicts an exemplary process 200e for using electrodialysis to create soda ash, sodium bicarbonate, carbon dioxide, and alkaline water. The exemplary process 200e may include seawater intake 212, a brine reservoir 214, a freshwater reservoir 216, an alkaline reservoir 218b, an chemical reaction station 220, a pH manipulation station 222, a bicarbonateextraction station 224, a first reactor 226, outflow pipes 228, a calcinator 230, a condenser 232, a compressor 234, a second reactor 236, a reservoir 240c, and a desalination station 250.

[0062] In some embodiments, the chemical reaction station 220 (e.g., the electrodialysis mechanism 120) may be configured to initiate an electrochemical reaction in order to rearrange the salt and water molecules in the seawater from seawater intake 212 into a basic solution (NaOH) and an acidic solution (HCL). The chemical reaction station 220 may, additionally or alternatively, be configured to route a portion of the basic solution to the first reactor 226 and route a separate portion of the basic solution to the outflow pipes 228. The chemical reaction station 220 may, additionally or alternatively, be configured to route a portion of the acidic solution to the pH manipulation station 222 and route a separate portion of the acidic solution to the reservoir 240b.

[0063] In some embodiments, the outflow pipes 228 may be configured to combine the acidified wastewater from the bicarbonate extraction station 224 with the portion of the basic solution from the chemical reaction station 220 in order to raise the pH of the acidified seawater to about 9pH to accordingly produce alkaline water. The outflow pipes 228 may, additionally or alternatively, be configured to route the alkaline water to the alkaline reservoir 218b for commercial use.

[0064] In some embodiments, the calcinator 230 e.g., the calcinator of the reaction mechanism 150) may be configured to heat the combined carbon dioxide gas and basic solution to produce soda ash (Na2CO3) and a byproduct solution of bicarbonate and water (H20). The calcinator 230 may, additionally or alternatively, be configured to route a portion of the soda ash to the reservoir 240e and route a separate portion of the soda ash the second reactor 236. The calcinator 230 may, additionally or alternatively, be configured to route a portion of the bicarbonate and water solution to the condenser 232 and route a portion of the bicarbonate and water solution to the second reactor 236. The calcinator 230 may, additionally or alternatively, be configured to route any excess bicarbonate to the reservoir 240e.

[0065] In some embodiments, the condenser 232 may be configured to separate the bicarbonate and water solution from the calcinator 230 into excess carbon dioxide gas and excess water. The condenser 232 may, additionally or alternatively, be configured to route the carbon dioxide gas to the compressor 234 and route the excess water to the seawater reservoir 218a.The condenser 232 may, additionally or alternatively, be configured to route any excess bicarbonate to the reservoir 240c.

[0066] In some embodiments, the second reactor 236 may be configured to react the bicarbonate and water solution from the calcinator 230 with the soda ash from the calcinator 230 to produce sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3). The second reactor 236 may, additionally or alternatively, be configured to route the sodium bicarbonate to the reservoir 240d.

[0067] In some embodiments, the reservoir 240e (e.g., the reservoir 170) may be configured to contain and store the soda ash from the calcinator 230, the sodium bicarbonate from the second reactor 236, and the excess bicarbonate from the calcinator 230 and / or the condenser 232. The reservoir 240e contains the products of the process 200e that are for commercial use.

[0068] It should be appreciated that quantities depicted in Figures 2A-2E are simply examples, and any quantities are possible. For instance, the quantity of brine depicted in the brine reservoir 214 is simply an example, and any quantity of brine is possible to use in accordance with the techniques described herein.

[0069] Figure 3 depicts an exemplary method 300 for using electrodialysis to create soda ash.

[0070] The example method 300 may begin at block 305 when an chemical reaction station (e.g., chemical reaction mechanism 120, etc.) may initiate an electrochemical reaction using electricity to rearrange a first portion of seawater into an acidic solution and a basic solution.

[0071] At block 310 a pH manipulation station (e.g., pH manipulation mechanism 130, etc.) may mix a second portion of seawater with a first portion of the acidic solution from the chemical reaction station, wherein mixing the seawater and the acidic solution produces acidified seawater and converts dissolved bicarbonate to carbon dioxide gas.

[0072] At block 315, an extraction station (e.g., extraction mechanism 140, etc.) may capture the carbon dioxide gas by heating and / or mixing the carbon dioxide gas in a stripping column.

[0073] At block 320, a first reactor (e.g., of a reaction station) may combine the carbon dioxide gas from the extraction station with the basic solution from the chemical reaction station.

[0074] At block 325, a calcinator (e.g., of the reaction station) may heat the combined carbon dioxide gas and basic solution to produce soda ash and route the soda ash to a reservoir

[0075] It should be understood that not all blocks and / or events of the exemplary signal diagrams and / or flowcharts arc required to be performed. Moreover, the exemplary signal diagrams and / or flowcharts are not mutually exclusive (e.g., block(s) / events from each example signal diagram and / or flowchart may be performed in any other signal diagram and / or flowchart). The exemplary signal diagrams and / or flowcharts may include additional, less, or alternate functionality, including that discussed elsewhere herein.OTHER MATTERS

[0076] Although the text herein sets forth a detailed description of numerous different embodiments, it should be understood that the legal scope of the invention is defined by the words of the claims set forth at the end of this patent. The detailed description is to be construed as exemplary only and does not describe every possible embodiment, as describing every possible embodiment would be impractical, if not impossible. One could implement numerous alternate embodiments, using either current technology or technology developed after the filing date of this patent, which would still fall within the scope of the claims.

[0077] It should also be understood that, unless a term is expressly defined in this patent using the sentence “As used herein, the term ‘ ’ is hereby defined to mean...” or a similar’ sentence, there is no intent to limit the meaning of that term, either expressly or by implication, beyond its plain or ordinary meaning, and such term should not be interpreted to be limited in scope based upon any statement made in any section of this patent (other than the language of the claims). To the extent that any term recited in the claims at the end of this disclosure is referred to in this disclosure in a manner consistent with a single meaning, that is done for sake of clarity only so as to not confuse the reader, and it is not intended that such claim term be limited, by implication or otherwise, to that single meaning.

[0078] Throughout this specification, plural instances may implement components, operations, or structures described as a single instance. Although individual operations of one or more methods are illustrated and described as separate operations, one or more of the individual operations may be performed concurrently, and nothing requires that the operations be performed in the order illustrated. Structures and functionality presented as separate components in example configurations may be implemented as a combined structure or component. Similarly, structures and functionality presented as a single component may be implemented asseparate components. These and other variations, modifications, additions, and improvements fall within the scope of the subject matter herein.

[0079] Additionally, certain embodiments are described herein as including logic or a number of routines, subroutines, applications, or instructions. These may constitute either software (code embodied on a non-transitory, tangible machine-readable medium) or hardware. In hardware, the routines, etc., are tangible units capable of performing certain operations and may be configured or arranged in a certain manner. In example embodiments, one or more computer systems (e.g., a standalone, client or server computer system) or one or more hardware modules of a computer system (e.g., a processor or a group of processors) may be configured by software (e.g., an application or application portion) as a hardware module that operates to perform certain operations as described herein.

[0080] In various embodiments, a hardware module may be implemented mechanically or electronically. For example, a hardware module may comprise dedicated circuitry or logic that is permanently configured (e.g., as a special-purpose processor, such as a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or an application- specific integrated circuit (ASIC) to perform certain operations). A hardware module may also comprise programmable logic or circuitry (e.g., as encompassed within a general-purpose processor or other programmable processor) that is temporarily configured by software to perform certain operations. It will be appreciated that the decision to implement a hardware module mechanically, in dedicated and permanently configured circuitry, or in temporarily configured circuitry (e.g., configured by software) may be driven by cost and time considerations.

[0081] Accordingly, the term “hardware module” should be understood to encompass a tangible entity, be that an entity that is physically constructed, permanently configured (e.g., hardwired), or temporarily configured (e.g., programmed) to operate in a certain manner or to perform certain operations described herein. Considering embodiments in which hardware modules are temporarily configured (e.g., programmed), each of the hardware modules need not be configured or instantiated at any one instance in time. For example, where the hardware modules comprise a general-purpose processor configured using software, the general-purpose processor may be configured as respective different hardware modules at different times. Software may accordingly configure a processor, for example, to constitute a particular hardwaremodule at one instance of time and to constitute a different hardware module at a different instance of time.

[0082] Hardware modules can provide information to, and receive information from, other hardware modules. Accordingly, the described hardware modules may be regarded as being communicatively coupled. Where multiple of such hardware modules exist contemporaneously, communications may be achieved through signal transmission (e.g., over appropriate circuits and buses) that connect the hardware modules. In embodiments in which multiple hardware modules are configured or instantiated at different times, communications between such hardware modules may be achieved, for example, through the storage and retrieval of information in memory structures to which the multiple hardware modules have access. For example, one hardware module may perform an operation and store the output of that operation in a memory device to which it is communicatively coupled. A further hardware module may then, at a later time, access the memory device to retrieve and process the stored output. Hardware modules may also initiate communications with input or output devices, and can operate on a resource (e.g., a collection of information).

[0083] The various operations of example methods described herein may be performed, at least partially, by one or more processors that are temporarily configured (e.g., by software) or permanently configured to perform the relevant operations. Whether temporarily or permanently configured, such processors may constitute processor-implemented modules that operate to perform one or more operations or functions. The modules referred to herein may, in some example embodiments, comprise processor- implemented modules.

[0084] Similarly, the methods or routines described herein may be at least partially processor- implemented. For example, at least some of the operations of a method may be performed by one or more processors or processor-implemented hardware modules. The performance of certain of the operations may be distributed among the one or more processors, not only residing within a single machine, but deployed across a number of machines. In some example embodiments, the processor or processors may be located in a single location (e.g., within a home environment, an office environment or as a server farm), while in other embodiments the processors may be distributed across a number of geographic locations.

[0085] Unless specifically stated otherwise, discussions herein using words such as “processing,” “computing,” “calculating,” “determining,” “presenting,” “displaying,” or the like may refer to actions or processes of a machine (e.g., a computer) that manipulates or transforms data represented as physical (e.g., electronic, magnetic, or optical) quantities within one or more memories (e.g., volatile memory, non-volatile memory, or a combination thereof), registers, or other machine components that receive, store, transmit, or display information.

[0086] As used herein any reference to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular element, feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment. The appearances of the phrase “in one embodiment” in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.

[0087] Some embodiments may be described using the expression “coupled” and “connected” along with their derivatives. For example, some embodiments may be described using the term “coupled” to indicate that two or more elements are in direct physical or electrical contact. The term “coupled,” however, may also mean that two or more elements are not in direct contact with each other, but yet still co-operate or interact with each other. The embodiments are not limited in this context.

[0088] As used herein, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” “including,” “has,” “having” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements is not necessarily limited to only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. Further, unless expressly stated to the contrary, “or” refers to an inclusive or and not to an exclusive or. For example, a condition A or B is satisfied by any one of the following; A is true (or present) and B is false (or not present), A is false (or not present) and B is true (or present), and both A and B are true (or present).

[0089] In addition, use of the “a” or “an” are employed to describe elements and components of the embodiments herein. This is done merely for convenience and to give a general sense of the description. This description, and the claims that follow, should be read to include one or at least one and the singular also includes the plural unless it is obvious that it is meant otherwise.

[0090] Upon reading this disclosure, those of skill in the art will appreciate still additional alternative structural and functional designs for the approaches described herein. Thus, while particular embodiments and applications have been illustrated and described, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are not limited to the precise construction and components disclosed herein. Various modifications, changes and variations, which will be apparent to those skilled in the art, may be made in the arrangement, operation and details of the method and apparatus disclosed herein without departing from the spirit and scope defined in the appended claims.

[0091] The particular features, structures, or characteristics of any specific embodiment may be combined in any suitable manner and in any suitable combination with one or more other embodiments, including the use of selected features without corresponding use of other features. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular application, situation or material to the essential scope and spirit of the present invention. It is to be understood that other variations and modifications of the embodiments of the present invention described and illustrated herein are possible in light of the teachings herein and are to be considered part of the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0092] While the preferred embodiments of the invention have been described, it should be understood that the invention is not so limited and modifications may be made without departing from the invention. The scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims, and all devices that come within the meaning of the claims, either literally or by equivalence, are intended to be embraced therein.

[0093] It is therefore intended that the foregoing detailed description be regarded as illustrative rather than limiting, and that it be understood that it is the following claims, including all equivalents, that are intended to define the spirit and scope of this invention.

[0094] Furthermore, the patent claims at the end of this patent application are not intended to be construed under 35 U.S.C. § 112(f) unless traditional means-plus-function language is expressly recited, such as “means for” or “step for” language being explicitly recited in the claim(s). The systems and methods described herein are directed to an improvement to computer functionality, and improve the functioning of conventional computers.

Claims

What is Claimed:

1. A system that uses chemical reactions to generate biogenic carbon dioxide for creation of carbon neutral cation carbonates, including soda ash and / or bicarbonate, with acidic by-product for utilisation or sale, comprising: a chemical reaction station configured to initiate a chemical reaction including rearranging ions in a small portion of brine to create an acidic solution and a basic solution; a pH manipulation station, downstream of the chemical reaction station, configured to mix a second portion of seawater with a first portion of the acidic solution from the chemical reaction station, wherein mixing the seawater and the acidic solution produces acidified seawater and converts dissolved bicarbonate to carbon dioxide gas; an extraction station, downstream of the pH manipulation station, configured to capture and purify the carbon dioxide gas by heating and / or mixing the acidified seawater, with carbon dioxide gas, in a stripping column, or other similar equipment, to liberate and capture carbon dioxide from seawater; and a reaction station, downstream of the extraction station and the chemical reaction station, wherein the reaction station includes: a first reactor configured to combine the carbon dioxide gas from the extraction station with the basic solution from the chemical reaction station; and a calcinator, downstream of the first reactor, configured to heat the combined carbon dioxide gas and basic solution to produce soda ash, and route the soda ash to a reservoir.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the reaction station further includes: a second reactor, downstream of the calcinator, configured to react a waste bicarbonate and water solution with soda ash to produce sodium bicarbonate, and route the sodium bicarbonate to the reservoir.

3. The system of claim 2, further comprising: a condenser, downstream of the reaction station, configured to separate excess waste bicarbonate and water solution from the calcinator into excess carbon dioxide gas and excess water; andan excess compressor, downstream of the condenser, configured to compress the excess carbon dioxide gas and route a first portion of the compressed excess carbon dioxide gas back to the extraction station.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein the excess compressor is further configured to route a second portion of the excess carbon dioxide gas to the reservoir.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the chemical reaction station is configured to route a second portion of the acidic solution to the reservoir.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the chemical reaction station comprises an electrodialysis station, and the system further comprises: an alkalinization station, downstream of the chemical reaction station and the pH manipulation station, configured to combine excess basic solution from the electrodialysis station with the acidified seawater from the pH manipulation station to produce alkaline water.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the extraction station further includes: a purifier configured to purify the carbon dioxide gas to at least 99 percent purity; and a bicarbonate compressor configured to compress the carbon dioxide gas.

8. A system for creating soda ash and / or bicarbonate, comprising: an electrodialysis station, configured to initiate an electrochemical reaction to rearrange a first portion of seawater into an acidic solution and a basic solution; a pH manipulation station, downstream of the electrodialysis station, configured to mix a second portion of the seawater with a first portion of the acidic solution from the electrodialysis station, wherein mixing the seawater and the acidic solution produces acidified seawater and converts dissolved bicarbonate to carbon dioxide gas; an extraction station, downstream of the pH manipulation station, configured to capture the carbon dioxide gas by heating and / or mixing the carbon dioxide gas in a stripping column; anda reaction station, downstream of the extraction station and the electrodialysis station, wherein the reaction station includes: a first reactor configured to combine the carbon dioxide gas from the extraction station with the basic solution from the electrodialysis station; and a calcinator, downstream of the first reactor, configured to heat the combined carbon dioxide gas and basic solution to produce soda ash, and route the soda ash to a reservoir.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein the reaction station further includes: a second reactor, downstream of the calcinator, configured to react a waste bicarbonate and water solution with soda ash to produce sodium bicarbonate, and route the sodium bicarbonate to the reservoir.

10. The system of claim 9, further comprising: a condenser, downstream of the reaction station, configured to separate excess waste bicarbonate and water solution from the calcinator into excess carbon dioxide gas and excess water; and an excess compressor, downstream of the condenser, configured to compress the excess carbon dioxide gas and route a first portion of the compressed excess carbon dioxide gas back to the extraction station.

11. The system of claim 8, wherein the reaction station is configured to route a second portion of the acidic solution to the reservoir.

12. The system of claim 8, further comprising: an alkalinization station, downstream of the reaction station and the pH manipulation station, configured to combine excess basic solution from the electrodialysis station with the acidified seawater from the pH manipulation station to produce alkaline water.

13. The system of claim 8, wherein the extraction station further includes: a purifier configured to purify the carbon dioxide gas to at least 99 percent purity; anda bicarbonate compressor configured to compress the carbon dioxide gas.

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