Degassing module and method for degassing liquid

Abstract

This degassing module comprises: a plurality of degassing elements arranged in the direction of extension, with each having a liquid distribution pipe and a plurality of hollow fiber membranes; a housing accommodating the plurality of degassing elements; a pipe-connecting part that connects the liquid distribution pipes of adjacent degassing elements among the plurality of degassing elements; and a partitioning part that partitions the area inside the housing into an internal area and an external area, with the plurality of hollow fiber membranes acting as a boundary, wherein the housing has a plurality of tubular parts that respectively surround the plurality of degassing elements, a liquid supply port for supplying liquid to a hollow portion of the liquid distribution pipes, a gas port for discharging gas permeated through the plurality of hollow fiber membranes, and a liquid discharge port provided with respect to each of the plurality of tubular parts to discharge liquid from the liquid distribution pipes.

Description

Degassing module and liquid degassing method

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a degassing module and a method for degassing a liquid.

[0002] BACKGROUND ART Conventionally, degassing modules that degas a liquid using a degassing element (hollow fiber element) having a plurality of hollow fiber membranes have been known (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-038904

[0004] In recent years, there has been a demand to reduce the concentration of carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas, in the atmosphere in order to curb climate change. As one of the means to achieve this, methods of removing or capturing carbon dioxide from seawater are being considered. Because seawater contains a large amount of carbon dioxide, it is thought that reducing the carbon dioxide concentration in seawater can reduce the carbon dioxide concentration in the atmosphere.

[0005] Incidentally, degassing of liquids is often performed in sweep mode. Sweep mode is a method of degassing a liquid by supplying a liquid to the outside of a hollow fiber membrane and supplying a sweep gas into the hollow fiber membrane. However, in order to degas a gas from a liquid to a high concentration, it is effective to perform the degassing in vacuum mode. Vacuum mode is a method of degassing a liquid by supplying a liquid to the outside of a hollow fiber membrane and suctioning (vacuuming) the inside of the hollow fiber membrane. In vacuum mode, the pressure difference between the inside and outside of the hollow fiber membrane is larger than in sweep mode, so more gas permeates the hollow fiber membrane than in sweep mode.

[0006] Therefore, in order to degas a liquid at a high flow rate, it is conceivable to house multiple degassing elements connected to each other in a single housing in the degassing module described in Patent Document 1 and degas the liquid. However, the liquid degassed by contact with the multiple hollow fiber membranes is discharged from the liquid discharge port through the gap between the degassing elements and the housing. When multiple degassing elements connected to each other are housed in a single housing, the length of the liquid discharge path in the gap between the degassing elements and the housing becomes long. This increases the pressure loss of the liquid flowing through the gap, so it is necessary to increase the diameter of the housing around the multiple degassing elements and widen the gap between the multiple degassing elements and the housing.

[0007] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to provide a degassing module and a method for degassing a liquid that can increase the flow rate of the liquid to be degassed while preventing the module from becoming too large.

[0008] [1] A degassing module according to the present disclosure comprises a plurality of degassing elements arranged in the extension direction, each degassing element having a liquid flow pipe with a plurality of openings formed therein and extending in an extension direction, and a plurality of hollow fiber membranes arranged around the liquid flow pipe so as to cover the plurality of openings; a housing for accommodating the plurality of degassing elements; a pipe connection portion for connecting the liquid flow pipes of adjacent ones of the plurality of degassing elements; and a partition portion for dividing the area within the housing, with the plurality of hollow fiber membranes as a boundary, into an internal area including hollow portions of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes and an external area including hollow portions of the liquid flow pipe, and the housing has a plurality of tubular portions surrounding each of the plurality of degassing elements, a liquid supply port for supplying liquid to the hollow portions of the liquid flow pipe, a gas port for discharging gas that has permeated the plurality of hollow fiber membranes, and a plurality of liquid discharge ports provided in each of the plurality of tubular portions for discharging liquid that has left the liquid flow pipe.

[0009] In this degassing module, multiple degassing elements are arranged in the extension direction, and the liquid flow pipes of adjacent degassing elements are connected by pipe connectors. A partition divides the area within the housing, with the multiple hollow fiber membranes as the boundary, into an internal area including the hollow portions of the multiple hollow fiber membranes and an external area including the hollow portions of the liquid flow pipes. This allows the liquid to be degassed in the multiple degassing elements, enabling a large flow rate of the liquid to be degassed. In this degassing module, the housing has multiple tubular sections surrounding each of the multiple degassing elements and multiple liquid discharge ports provided in each of the multiple tubular sections for discharging the liquid exiting the liquid flow pipes. This shortens the length of the liquid discharge path in the gaps between the multiple degassing elements and the housing. This reduces the pressure loss of the liquid flowing through the gaps, allowing the diameters of the multiple tubular sections to be reduced. This prevents the module from becoming too large.

[0010] [2] In the degassing module described in [1], the multiple degassing elements may include a first-end degassing element located at an end in a first extension direction, which is one direction in the extension direction, and a second-end degassing element located at an end in a second extension direction, which is the opposite direction in the extension direction, wherein the end of the hollow portion of the liquid flow pipe of the first-end degassing element facing the first extension direction is blocked, and the liquid supply port may be connected to the end of the liquid flow pipe of the second-end degassing element facing the second extension direction. In this degassing module, the end of the hollow portion of the liquid flow pipe of the first-end degassing element facing the first extension direction is blocked, and the liquid supply port is connected to the end of the liquid flow pipe of the second-end degassing element facing the second extension direction. Therefore, when liquid is supplied to the liquid supply port, the liquid is supplied to the hollow portion of the liquid flow pipe in each degassing element, flows out of the liquid flow pipe through the multiple openings, and comes into contact with the multiple hollow fiber membranes to be degassed. The liquid that has been degassed by contacting the hollow fiber membranes is then discharged from the liquid outlet ports without returning to the hollow portion of the liquid distribution pipe. In other words, the liquid does not flow in a direction that presses the hollow fiber membranes against the liquid distribution pipe, but rather in a direction that moves the hollow fiber membranes away from the liquid distribution pipe. This prevents an increase in pressure loss when the liquid passes through the hollow fiber membranes, thereby preventing a decrease in the liquid flow rate. As a result, for example, a liquid supply device with a relatively low output can be used to supply the liquid to the degassing module.

[0011] [3] In the degassing module described in [2], a first end communication space communicating with the hollow portions of the hollow fiber membranes of the first end degassing element may be formed on the first extension direction side of the first end degassing element, and the gas port may have a first end gas port adjacent to the first end communication space and communicating with the first end communication space. In this degassing module, a first end communication space communicating with the hollow portions of the hollow fiber membranes of the first end degassing element is formed on the first extension direction side of the first end degassing element, and the first end gas port adjacent to the first end communication space and communicating with the first end communication space. This makes it possible to suction the hollow portions of the hollow fiber membranes or supply a sweep gas to the hollow portions of the hollow fiber membranes from the end of the first extension direction side of the first end degassing element. This further improves degassing efficiency.

[0012] [4] In the degassing module described in [2] or [3], a second end communication space communicating with the hollow portions of the hollow fiber membranes of the second end degassing element may be formed on the second extension direction side of the second end degassing element, and the gas port may have a second end gas port adjacent to the second end communication space and communicating with the second end communication space. In this degassing module, a second end communication space communicating with the hollow portions of the hollow fiber membranes of the second end degassing element is formed on the second extension direction side of the second end degassing element, and the second end gas port adjacent to the second end communication space and communicating with the second end communication space. This makes it possible to suction the hollow portions of the hollow fiber membranes or supply a sweep gas to the hollow portions of the hollow fiber membranes from the end of the second extension direction side of the second end degassing element. This further improves degassing efficiency.

[0013] [5] In the degassing module according to any one of [2] to [4], the plurality of degassing elements may include a first-side degassing element and a second-side degassing element adjacent to each other in the extension direction, an intermediate communication space is formed between the first-side degassing element and the second-side degassing element, the intermediate communication space communicating with the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes of the first-side degassing element and the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes of the second-side degassing element, and the gas port may have an intermediate gas port adjacent to the intermediate communication space and communicating with the intermediate communication space. In this degassing module, an intermediate communication space is formed between the first-side degassing element and the second-side degassing element, the intermediate communication space communicating with the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes of the first-side degassing element and the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes of the second-side degassing element, and the intermediate gas port is adjacent to the intermediate communication space and communicates with the intermediate communication space. This allows the hollow portions of the hollow fiber membranes to be suctioned or a sweep gas to be supplied to the hollow portions of the hollow fiber membranes from between the first degassing element and the second degassing element, thereby shortening the discharge path length for the gas that has permeated the hollow fiber membranes and reducing the imbalance between the gas discharge force acting on the first degassing element and the gas discharge force acting on the second hollow fiber membrane element, thereby further improving the degassing efficiency.

[0014] [6] In the degassing module described in [2], a first end communicating space communicating with hollow portions of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes of the first end degassing element is formed on the first extension direction side of the first end degassing element, and a second end communicating space communicating with hollow portions of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes of the second end degassing element is formed on the second extension direction side of the second end degassing element, the plurality of degassing elements include a first side degassing element and a second side degassing element adjacent to each other in the extension direction, and an intermediate communicating space communicating with the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes of the first side degassing element and the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes of the second side degassing element is formed between the first side degassing element and the second side degassing element, and the gas ports may have a first end gas port adjacent to the first end communicating space and communicating with the first end communicating space, a second end gas port adjacent to the second end communicating space and communicating with the second end communicating space, and an intermediate gas port adjacent to the intermediate communicating space and communicating with the intermediate communicating space. In this degassing module, a first end communicating space communicating with the hollow portions of the hollow fiber membranes of the first end degassing element is formed on the first extension direction side of the first end degassing element, and a first end gas port is adjacent to the first end communicating space and communicates with the first end communicating space. Also, a second end communicating space communicating with the hollow portions of the hollow fiber membranes of the second end degassing element is formed on the second extension direction side of the second end degassing element, and a second end gas port is adjacent to the second end communicating space and communicates with the second end communicating space. Also, an intermediate communicating space communicating with the hollow portions of the hollow fiber membranes of the first side degassing element and the hollow portions of the hollow fiber membranes of the second side degassing element is formed between the first side degassing element and the second side degassing element, which are adjacent to each other in the extension direction. An intermediate gas port is adjacent to the intermediate communicating space and communicates with the intermediate communicating space. This makes it possible to suction the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes or supply a sweep gas to the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes from the end of the first end degassing element in the first extension direction, the end of the second end degassing element in the second extension direction, and between the first end degassing element and the second end degassing element, thereby further improving the degassing efficiency.

[0015] [7] In the degassing module described in [5] or [6], the multiple cylindrical portions may include a first cylindrical portion surrounding the periphery of the first degassing element and a second cylindrical portion surrounding the periphery of the second degassing element, the housing has a housing connection portion connecting the first cylindrical portion and the second cylindrical portion, and the intermediate communication space may be formed between the housing connection portion and the pipe connection portion. In this degassing module, the multiple cylindrical portions include the first cylindrical portion surrounding the periphery of the first degassing element and the second cylindrical portion surrounding the periphery of the second degassing element, the housing has a housing connection portion connecting the first cylindrical portion and the second cylindrical portion, and the intermediate communication space is formed between the housing connection portion and the pipe connection portion. Therefore, the intermediate communication space can be formed between the first degassing element and the second degassing element with a simple configuration.

[0016] [8] In the degassing module according to [7], each of the plurality of degassing elements comprises: a first fixing part located at an end on a first extension direction side, which is one direction in the extension direction, and fixing the plurality of hollow fiber membranes to the liquid distribution pipe so as to seal the gap between the liquid distribution pipe and the plurality of hollow fiber membranes and leave the hollow portion of the liquid distribution pipe and the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes open; and a second fixing part located at an end on a second extension direction side, which is the opposite direction to the first extension direction, and fixing the plurality of hollow fiber membranes to the liquid distribution pipe so as to seal the gap between the liquid distribution pipe and the plurality of hollow fiber membranes and leave the hollow portion of the liquid distribution pipe and the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes open; the outer region may have a first outer space located between the first outer space and the second outer space, and a second outer space located between the third outer space and the fourth outer space, and the plurality of liquid discharge ports may include a first liquid discharge port adjacent to the first outer space and connected to the first outer space, and a second liquid discharge port adjacent to the second outer space and connected to the second outer space. In this degassing module, the external region has a first outer space located between the first sealed portion and the second sealed portion and a second outer space located between the third sealed portion and the fourth sealed portion, and the multiple liquid discharge ports include a first liquid discharge port adjacent to the first outer space and communicating with the first outer space, and a second liquid discharge port adjacent to the second outer space and communicating with the second outer space. Therefore, the liquid discharged from the multiple openings of the liquid distribution pipe of the first degassing element to the first outer space does not flow into the second outer space, but comes into contact with the multiple hollow fiber membranes of the first degassing element and is degassed, and then passes through the gap between the first degassing element and the first tubular portion and is discharged from the first liquid discharge port.Furthermore, the liquid discharged from the plurality of openings of the liquid flow pipe of the second-side degassing element into the second outer space does not flow into the first outer space, but comes into contact with the plurality of hollow fiber membranes of the second-side degassing element and is degassed, and then passes through the second gap between the second-side degassing element and the second tubular portion and is discharged from the second liquid discharge port. This further shortens the discharge path length of the liquid discharged from the plurality of openings of the liquid flow pipe of the first-side degassing element and the second-side degassing element, thereby further preventing the first tubular portion and the second tubular portion from becoming large.

[0017] [9] In the degassing module according to any one of [2] to [7], each of the plurality of degassing elements comprises: a first fixing portion located at an end portion in a first extension direction, which is one direction in the extension direction, and fixing the plurality of hollow fiber membranes to the liquid distribution pipe so as to seal between the liquid distribution pipe and the plurality of hollow fiber membranes and leave the hollow portion of the liquid distribution pipe and the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes open; and a second fixing portion located at an end portion in a second extension direction, which is the opposite direction to the first extension direction, and fixing the plurality of hollow fiber membranes to the liquid distribution pipe so as to seal between the liquid distribution pipe and the plurality of hollow fiber membranes and leave the hollow portion of the liquid distribution pipe and the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes open; and the partition portion may have a first sealing portion that seals between the first fixing portion of each of the plurality of degassing elements and the cylindrical portion, and a second sealing portion that seals between the second fixing portion of each of the plurality of degassing elements and the cylindrical portion. In this degassing module, the first and second fixing portions and the cylindrical portion of each of the degassing elements are sealed with the first and second sealing portions, so that the liquid that leaks out of the liquid circulation pipe from the multiple openings is discharged from the liquid discharge port without flowing into other degassing elements. This further shortens the length of the liquid discharge path, making it possible to further prevent the multiple cylindrical portions from becoming large.

[0018]

[10] A liquid degassing method according to the present disclosure is a method for degassing a liquid using the degassing module described in any one of [1] to [9], comprising suctioning a gas port of the degassing module and supplying liquid to a liquid supply port of the degassing module. In this liquid degassing method, when the gas port of any of the above degassing modules is suctioned and liquid is supplied to the liquid supply port, the liquid is degassed in multiple degassing elements, thereby enabling a large flow rate of the liquid to be degassed. In this degassing module, each of the multiple degassing elements has a liquid discharge port for discharging liquid exiting the liquid flow pipe. This shortens the length of the liquid discharge path in the gap between the multiple degassing elements and the housing. This reduces the pressure loss of the liquid flowing through the gap, allowing the diameter of the multiple cylindrical portions to be reduced. This prevents the module from becoming too large.

[0019]

[11] A liquid degassing method according to the present disclosure is a method for degassing a liquid using the degassing module described in [6], which includes supplying a sweep gas to at least one of the intermediate gas port, the first end gas port, and the second end gas port of the degassing module, and supplying liquid to the liquid supply port of the degassing module. In this liquid degassing method, the degassing module described in [6] is used. By supplying a sweep gas to at least one of the intermediate gas port, the first end gas port, and the second end gas port of the degassing module, and supplying liquid to the liquid supply port of the degassing module, the liquid is degassed in the multiple degassing elements, thereby enabling a large flow rate of the liquid to be degassed. In this degassing module, each of the multiple degassing elements has a liquid discharge port for discharging the liquid exiting the liquid flow pipe. This shortens the length of the liquid discharge path in the gaps between the multiple degassing elements and the housing. This reduces the pressure loss of the liquid flowing through the gaps, allowing the diameters of the multiple cylindrical portions to be reduced. This prevents the module from becoming too large.

[0020]

[12] In the liquid degassing method according to

[11] , a sweep gas may be supplied to an intermediate gas port of the degassing module. In this liquid degassing method, by supplying the sweep gas to the intermediate gas port of the degassing module, the gas that has permeated the plurality of hollow fiber membranes can be discharged from the first end gas port and the second end gas port.

[0021]

[13] In the method for degassing a liquid according to

[12] , the first end gas port and the second end gas port of the degassing module may be suctioned. In this method for degassing a liquid, suctioning the first end gas port and the second end gas port of the degassing module can improve the efficiency of discharging the gas that has permeated the plurality of hollow fiber membranes.

[0022]

[14] In the liquid degassing method according to

[11] , a sweep gas may be supplied to the first end gas port and the second end gas port of the degassing module. In this liquid degassing method, by supplying the sweep gas to the first end gas port and the second end gas port of the degassing module, the gas that has permeated the plurality of hollow fiber membranes can be discharged from the middle gas port.

[0023]

[15] In the method for degassing a liquid according to

[14] , the middle gas port of the degassing module may be suctioned. In this method for degassing a liquid, suctioning the middle gas port of the degassing module can improve the efficiency of discharging the gas that has permeated the plurality of hollow fiber membranes.

[0024] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to increase the flow rate of liquid to be degassed while suppressing an increase in size.

[0025] FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a degassing module according to an embodiment. FIG. 4 is a schematic front view of a degassing element. FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line III-III in FIG. 2. FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of the degassing element shown in FIG. 2. FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of the degassing element shown in FIG. 2. FIG. 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of the degassing module shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of the degassing module shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of the degassing module shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of the degassing module shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 12 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of the degassing module shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 13 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a degassing module according to another example. FIG. 14 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a degassing module according to another example. FIG. 15 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a degassing module for illustrating another example of a method for degassing a liquid. FIG. 16 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a degassing module for illustrating another example of a method for degassing a liquid.

[0026] Hereinafter, a degassing module and a liquid degassing method according to an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In all the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0027] [Degassing Module] Fig. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a degassing module according to an embodiment. As shown in Fig. 1, the degassing module 1 according to this embodiment is a module for degassing a liquid L. The liquid L is not particularly limited, but may be, for example, seawater, drinking water, pure water, ultrapure water, or other water; an aqueous solution containing ammonium sulfate, a surfactant, or the like; an organic solvent such as alcohol or hydrocarbon; or an ionic liquid. The degassing module 1 includes a plurality of degassing elements 2, a housing 3, a pipe connection 4, a baffle 5, and a partition 7. Note that Fig. 1 shows only the housing 3 in cross section.

[0028] Fig. 2 is a schematic front view of a degassing element. Fig. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line III-III in Fig. 2. Fig. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of the degassing element shown in Fig. 2. Fig. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of the degassing element shown in Fig. 2. As shown in Figs. 1 to 5, the degassing element 2 is for degassing a liquid L. The degassing element 2 includes a liquid circulation pipe 21, a plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22, a first fixing portion 24, and a second fixing portion 25.

[0029] The liquid flow pipe 21 is a cylindrical member extending in an extension direction D. One of the two extension directions D is referred to as a first extension direction D1, and the other is referred to as a second extension direction D2. In FIG. 2 , the upper side is the first extension direction D1, and the lower side is the second extension direction D2. The end of the degassing element 2 on the first extension direction D1 side is referred to as a first element end 2a, and the end of the degassing element 2 on the second extension direction D2 side is referred to as a second element end 2b.

[0030] The hollow portion 21a of the liquid circulation pipe 21 is a flow path (intra-pipe flow path) through which the liquid L can flow, and is formed by the inner circumferential surface of the liquid circulation pipe 21. The liquid circulation pipe 21 extends over the entire area in the extension direction D of the degassing element 2. That is, the liquid circulation pipe 21 extends from the end of the degassing element 2 in the first extension direction D1 to the end of the degassing element 2 in the second extension direction D2. The hollow portion 21a of the liquid circulation pipe 21 is open in the first extension direction D1 and the second extension direction D2. The opening of the hollow portion 21a of the liquid circulation pipe 21 on the first extension direction D1 side is referred to as the first end liquid circulation pipe opening 21b, and the opening of the hollow portion 21a of the liquid circulation pipe 21 on the second extension direction D2 side is referred to as the second end liquid circulation pipe opening 21c. Note that in the degassing element 2, no member such as a baffle that prevents the liquid L from moving in the extension direction D is provided in the hollow portion 21a of the liquid circulation pipe 21.

[0031] A plurality of openings 21d are formed in the liquid circulation pipe 21. The plurality of openings 21d are holes for allowing the liquid L to flow from the hollow portion 21a to the outside of the liquid circulation pipe 21, separate from the first end liquid circulation pipe opening 21b and the second end liquid circulation pipe opening 21c. In other words, the plurality of openings 21d are holes for allowing the liquid L to flow from the hollow portion 21a to the outside of the liquid circulation pipe 21 in the radial direction of the liquid circulation pipe 21. The plurality of openings 21d are formed in the peripheral wall of the liquid circulation pipe 21, and open the hollow portion 21a to the outside of the liquid circulation pipe 21.

[0032] The plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 extend along the liquid circulation pipe 21 and are arranged around the liquid circulation pipe 21 so as to cover the plurality of openings 21 d. The plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 extending along the liquid circulation pipe 21 means that in the initial state (unused state) of the degassing element 2, the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 extend along the extension direction D. The plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 form a membrane bundle having a substantially cylindrical shape as a whole.

[0033] The plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 are formed, for example, by a hollow fiber membrane fabric (not shown) woven in the shape of a bamboo blind. The hollow fiber membrane fabric is a fabric in which a plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 serving as weft yarns are woven with warp yarns (not shown). In the hollow fiber membrane fabric, the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 are arranged in the shape of a bamboo blind. The hollow fiber membrane fabric is wound around the liquid distribution pipe 21 so that the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 extend in the extension direction D and cover the plurality of openings 21 d.

[0034] The hollow portions 22a of the hollow fiber membranes 22 are flow paths (intra-membrane flow paths) through which gas G can flow, and are formed by the inner circumferential surfaces of the hollow fiber membranes 22. The plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 extend over the entire area in the extension direction D of the degassing element 2. That is, the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 extend from the end of the degassing element 2 in the first extension direction D1 to the end of the degassing element 2 in the second extension direction D2. The hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 are open in the first extension direction D1 and the second extension direction D2. Note that the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 refer to the hollow portions 22a of each of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22. The openings on the first extension direction D1 side of the hollow portions 22a of the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 are referred to as first end hollow fiber membrane openings 22b, and the openings on the second extension direction D2 side of the hollow portions 22a of the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 are referred to as second end hollow fiber membrane openings 22c.

[0035] The hollow fiber membrane 22 is a hollow fiber membrane that allows gas G to pass through but not liquid L to pass through. The material, shape, and form of the hollow fiber membrane 22 are not particularly limited. Examples of materials for the hollow fiber membrane 22 include polyolefin resins such as polypropylene, polyethylene, and polymethylpentene; silicone resins such as polydimethylsiloxane and its copolymers; and fluorine-based resins such as PTFE and vinylidene fluoride. Examples of the shape (sidewall shape) of the hollow fiber membrane 22 include porous membranes, microporous membranes, and homogeneous membranes (non-porous membranes) that do not have porosity. Examples of the form of the hollow fiber membrane 22 include symmetric membranes (homogeneous membranes) in which the entire membrane has a homogeneous chemical or physical structure, and asymmetric membranes (heterogeneous membranes) in which the chemical or physical structure of the membrane varies depending on the membrane. An asymmetric membrane (heterogeneous membrane) is a membrane that has a non-porous dense layer and a porous layer. In this case, the dense layer may be formed anywhere in the membrane, such as on the surface of the membrane or inside the porous membrane. Heterogeneous membranes also include composite membranes with different chemical structures and multilayer membranes such as three-layer structures. In particular, heterogeneous membranes using poly(4-methylpentene-1) resin are particularly preferred because they have a dense layer that blocks liquid L.

[0036] The outer diameter of the hollow fiber membrane 22 is not particularly limited. From the viewpoint of increasing the membrane area, the outer diameter of the hollow fiber membrane 22 can be, for example, 500 μm or less, preferably 350 μm or less, and more preferably 250 μm or less. On the other hand, from the viewpoint of suppressing breakage, the outer diameter of the hollow fiber membrane 22 can be, for example, 50 μm or more, preferably 150 μm or more, and more preferably 200 μm or more.

[0037] The first fixing portion 24 is located at the first element end portion 2a and fixes the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 to the liquid circulation pipe 21 so as to seal the gap between the liquid circulation pipe 21 and the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 and leave the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 open. In other words, the first fixing portion 24 fixes the end of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 on the first extension direction D1 side to the liquid circulation pipe 21. The first fixing portion 24 seals the gap between the liquid circulation pipe 21 and the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22. Furthermore, the first fixing portion 24 is not provided in the hollow portions 21a of the liquid circulation pipe 21 and the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22, leaving the hollow portions 21a of the liquid circulation pipe 21 and the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 open. The first fixing portion 24 is formed of, for example, resin.

[0038] The second fixing portion 25 is located at the second element end portion 2b and fixes the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 to the liquid circulation pipe 21 so as to seal the gap between the liquid circulation pipe 21 and the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 and leave the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 open. In other words, the second fixing portion 25 fixes the end of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 on the second extension direction D2 side to the liquid circulation pipe 21. The second fixing portion 25 seals the gap between the liquid circulation pipe 21 and the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22. Furthermore, the second fixing portion 25 is not provided in the hollow portions 21a of the liquid circulation pipe 21 and the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22, leaving the hollow portions 21a of the liquid circulation pipe 21 and the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 open. The second fixing portion 25 is formed of, for example, resin.

[0039] The plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 are not covered by a member such as a housing, and are exposed to the outside of the degassing element 2 between the first fixing part 24 and the second fixing part 25 .

[0040] The housing 3 accommodates the multiple degassing elements 2 such that the multiple degassing elements 2 are arranged in the extension direction D. In this embodiment, two degassing elements 2 are accommodated in the housing 3. The two degassing elements 2 are composed of a first degassing element 2α and a second degassing element 2β. The first degassing element 2α and the second degassing element 2β are degassing elements 2 adjacent to each other in the extension direction D. The first degassing element 2α is a first-side degassing element arranged on the first extension direction D1 side, and the second degassing element 2β is a second-side degassing element arranged on the second extension direction D2 side. The first degassing element 2α is also a first-end degassing element located at the end of the multiple degassing elements 2 in the first extension direction D1, and the second degassing element 2β is also a second-end degassing element located at the end of the multiple degassing elements 2 in the second extension direction D2.

[0041] The pipe connection portion 4 connects the liquid flow pipes 21 of adjacent degassing elements 2 among the multiple degassing elements 2. That is, the pipe connection portion 4 connects the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first degassing element 2α to the liquid flow pipe 21 of the second degassing element 2β. The pipe connection portion 4 is fitted into the end portion 21e of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first degassing element 2α on the second extension direction D2 side, thereby connecting to the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first degassing element 2α. The pipe connection portion 4 is also fitted into the end portion 21f of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the second degassing element 2β on the first extension direction D1 side, thereby connecting to the liquid flow pipe 21 of the second degassing element 2β. The pipe connection portion 4 forms an intermediate liquid flow passage S1 inside thereof, which communicates with the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first degassing element 2α and the liquid flow pipe 21 of the second degassing element 2β.

[0042] Fig. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of the degassing module shown in Fig. 1. Fig. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of the degassing module shown in Fig. 1. Fig. 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of the degassing module shown in Fig. 1. Fig. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of the degassing module shown in Fig. 1. Fig. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of the degassing module shown in Fig. 1. As shown in Figs. 1, 2, and 6 to 10, the housing 3 accommodates the first degassing element 2α and the second degassing element 2β so that a gap S2 is formed between the first degassing element 2α and the second degassing element 2β and the housing 3. This gap S2 is a space between the first degassing element 2α and the second degassing element 2β and through which the liquid L can flow.

[0043] The housing 3 comprises a plurality of cylindrical portions 31 surrounding the first degassing element 2α and the second degassing element 2β, a first cover portion 32 connected to one end of the plurality of cylindrical portions 31, a second cover portion 33 connected to the end of the plurality of cylindrical portions 31 opposite the first cover portion 32, and a housing connection portion 34 connecting the plurality of cylindrical portions 31.

[0044] The multiple cylindrical portions 31 are composed of a first cylindrical portion 31α that surrounds the periphery of the first degassing element 2α and a second cylindrical portion 31β that surrounds the periphery of the second degassing element 2β. The first degassing element 2α and the second degassing element 2β are housed in the first cylindrical portion 31α and the second cylindrical portion 31β so that the extending direction D of the first degassing element 2α and the second degassing element 2β is the extending direction of the first cylindrical portion 31α and the second cylindrical portion 31β, i.e., the opposing direction of the first cover portion 32 and the second cover portion 33. As a result, the extending direction D of the first degassing element 2α and the second degassing element 2β is the same as the extending direction of the first cylindrical portion 31α and the second cylindrical portion 31β, and therefore the extending direction of the first cylindrical portion 31α and the second cylindrical portion 31β is also referred to as the extending direction D.

[0045] The first cylindrical portion 31α is disposed on the first extension direction D1 side of the second cylindrical portion 31β, and the second cylindrical portion 31β is disposed on the second extension direction D2 side of the first cylindrical portion 31α. The first lid portion 32 is connected to the end of the first cylindrical portion 31α on the first extension direction D1 side so as to cover the opening of the first cylindrical portion 31α on the first extension direction D1 side. The second lid portion 33 is connected to the end of the second cylindrical portion 31β on the second extension direction D2 side so as to cover the opening of the second cylindrical portion 31β on the second extension direction D2 side.

[0046] The housing connection portion 34 connects the first cylindrical portion 31α and the second cylindrical portion 31β. The housing connection portion 34 is connected to an end portion of the first cylindrical portion 31α on the second extending direction D2 side and an end portion of the second cylindrical portion 31β on the first extending direction D1 side. Note that the housing connection portion 34 may be formed integrally with either or both of the first cylindrical portion 31α and the second cylindrical portion 31β.

[0047] The baffle 5 blocks the end 21f of the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first degassing element 2α on the first extension direction D1 side. That is, the baffle 5 blocks the hollow portion 21a at the end 21f of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first degassing element 2α on the first extension direction D1 side. The baffle 5 is fitted into the end of the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first degassing element 2α on the first extension direction D1 side. Note that the baffle 5 may be formed integrally with the first cover portion 32. The baffle 5 prevents the liquid L supplied to the hollow portions 21a of the liquid flow pipes 21 of the first degassing element 2α and the second degassing element 2β from being discharged from the first degassing element 2α in the first extension direction D1. The baffle 5 is attached only to the first degassing element 2α and does not block the hollow portion 22a of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the second degassing element 2β. Therefore, the liquid L is not discharged from the first degassing element 2α in the first extension direction D1, but is discharged radially outward from the liquid flow pipe 21 in the first degassing element 2α and the second degassing element 2β through multiple openings 21d formed in the liquid flow pipe 21.

[0048] In addition, no members other than the baffle 5 are provided in the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first degassing element 2α and the second degassing element 2β and the intermediate liquid flow passage S1 described later to prevent the movement of the liquid L in the extension direction D.

[0049] The partition 7 separates the interior of the housing 3 into an inner region R1 and an outer region R2, with the hollow fiber membranes 22 as the boundary. The inner region R1 is a region that includes the hollow portions 22a of the hollow fiber membranes 22. The outer region R2 is a region that includes the hollow portions 21a of the liquid distribution pipes 21. Therefore, the hollow fiber membranes 22 form the boundary between the inner region R1 and the outer region R2. In other words, the inside (hollow portions 22a) of the hollow fiber membranes 22 forms the inner region R1, and the outside of the hollow fiber membranes 22 forms the outer region R2. The hollow fiber membranes 22 prevent the liquid L from passing from the outer region R2 to the inner region R1, while allowing the gas G (such as dissolved gas in the liquid L or bubbles contained in the liquid L) to pass from the outer region R2 to the inner region R1. Since the hollow portion 21a of the liquid circulation pipe 21 is in communication with the outside of the liquid circulation pipe 21 by a plurality of openings 21d formed in the liquid circulation pipe 21, the external region R2 also includes a space S3 outside the liquid circulation pipe 21 that is in communication with the hollow portion 21a of the liquid circulation pipe 21. Furthermore, the space S3 outside the liquid circulation pipe 21 that is in communication with the hollow portion 21a of the liquid circulation pipe 21 also includes gaps S2 between the housing 3 and the first degassing element 2α and the second degassing element 2β.

[0050] The partition 7 has a first sealing portion 71α, a second sealing portion 72α, a third sealing portion 71β, and a fourth sealing portion 72β. The first sealing portion 71α seals between the first fixing portion 24 of the first degassing element 2α and the first cylindrical portion 31α. The second sealing portion 72α seals between the second fixing portion 25 of the first degassing element 2α and the first cylindrical portion 31α. The third sealing portion 71β seals between the first fixing portion 24 of the second degassing element 2β and the second cylindrical portion 31β. The fourth sealing portion 72β seals between the second fixing portion 25 of the second degassing element 2β and the second cylindrical portion 31β.

[0051] Therefore, an intermediate communication space S4 communicating with the hollow portions 22 a of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 of the first degassing element 2α and the hollow portions 22 a of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 of the second degassing element 2β is formed between the housing connection portion 34 and the pipe connection portion 4. The intermediate communication space S4 is a space formed between the first degassing element 2α and the second degassing element 2β. Furthermore, a first end communication space S5 communicating with the hollow portions 22 a of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 of the first degassing element 2α is formed on the side of the first degassing element 2α in the first extension direction D1. Furthermore, a second end communication space S6 communicating with the hollow portions 22 a of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 of the second degassing element 2β is formed on the side of the second degassing element 2β in the second extension direction D2. The intermediate communication space S4, the first end communication space S5, and the second end communication space S6 are in communication with the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22, and therefore also form part of the internal region R1.

[0052] The intermediate communication space S4 is a space surrounded by the pipe connection portion 4, the second fixing portion 25 of the first degassing element 2α, the first fixing portion 24 of the second degassing element 2β, the second sealing portion 72α, the third sealing portion 71β, and the housing connection portion 34. The intermediate communication space S4 is adjacent to the second element end portion 2b of the first degassing element 2α on the second extension direction D2 side and adjacent to the first element end portion 2a of the second degassing element 2β on the first extension direction D1 side. The intermediate communication space S4 is also adjacent to the second end hollow fiber membrane opening 22c of the first degassing element 2α and the first end hollow fiber membrane opening 22b of the second degassing element 2β.

[0053] The first end communication space S5 is a space surrounded by the first fixing portion 24, the first sealing portion 71α, and the first cover portion 32 of the first degassing element 2α. The first end communication space S5 is a space adjacent to the first element end portion 2a of the first degassing element 2α on the side in the first extending direction D1. The first end communication space S5 is also a space adjacent to the first end hollow fiber membrane opening 22b of the first degassing element 2α.

[0054] The second end communication space S6 is a space surrounded by the second fixing portion 25, the fourth sealing portion 72β, and the second lid portion 33 of the second degassing element 2β. The second end communication space S6 is a space adjacent to the second element end portion 2b of the second degassing element 2β on the side in the second extending direction D2. The second end communication space S6 is a space adjacent to the second end hollow fiber membrane opening 22c of the second degassing element 2β.

[0055] The space S3 outside the liquid flow pipe 21, which is in communication with the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21, is divided into two spaces: a first outer space S3α located between the first sealing portion 71α and the second sealing portion 72α, and a second outer space S3β located between the third sealing portion 71β and the fourth sealing portion 72β. Therefore, the gaps S2 between the first degassing element 2α and the second degassing element 2β and the housing 3 are also divided into two gaps: a first gap S2α between the first degassing element 2α and the first cylindrical portion 31α, and a second gap S2β between the second degassing element 2β and the second cylindrical portion 31β.

[0056] The first outer space S3α is a space surrounded by the liquid flow pipe 21, the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22, the first fixing portion 24, the second fixing portion 25, the first tubular portion 31α, the first sealing portion 71α, and the second sealing portion 72α of the first degassing element 2α. The first outer space S3α is a space adjacent to the first fixing portion 24 and the first sealing portion 71α of the first degassing element 2α on the side in the second extension direction D2, and adjacent to the second fixing portion 25 and the second sealing portion 72α of the first degassing element 2α on the side in the first extension direction D1.

[0057] The second outer space S3β is a space surrounded by the liquid flow pipe 21, the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22, the first fixing portion 24, the second fixing portion 25, the second tubular portion 31β, the third sealing portion 71β, and the fourth sealing portion 72β of the second degassing element 2β. The second outer space S3β is a space adjacent to the first fixing portion 24 and the third sealing portion 71β of the second degassing element 2β on the second extension direction D2 side and adjacent to the second fixing portion 25 and the fourth sealing portion 72β of the second degassing element 2β on the first extension direction D1 side.

[0058] The first sealing portion 71α seals between the first fixing portion 24 of the first degassing element 2α and the first cylindrical portion 31α, thereby fixing the first fixing portion 24 of the first degassing element 2α to the first cylindrical portion 31α. The second sealing portion 72α seals between the second fixing portion 25 of the first degassing element 2α and the first cylindrical portion 31α, thereby fixing the second fixing portion 25 of the first degassing element 2α to the first cylindrical portion 31α. The third sealing portion 71β seals between the first fixing portion 24 of the second degassing element 2β and the second cylindrical portion 31β, thereby fixing the first fixing portion 24 of the second degassing element 2β to the second cylindrical portion 31β. The fourth sealing portion 72β seals between the second fixing portion 25 of the second degassing element 2β and the second cylindrical portion 31β, thereby fixing the second fixing portion 25 of the second degassing element 2β to the second cylindrical portion 31β. The first sealing portion 71α, the second sealing portion 72α, the third sealing portion 71β, and the fourth sealing portion 72β are formed of, for example, resin.

[0059] The housing 3 has a liquid supply port 35 for supplying the liquid L to the hollow portion 21 a of the liquid circulation pipe 21, a plurality of liquid discharge ports 36 for discharging the liquid L from the liquid circulation pipe 21, and an intermediate gas port 37, a first-end gas port 38, and a second-end gas port 39, which are gas ports for discharging gas that has permeated the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22. When degassing the liquid L in vacuum mode, the intermediate gas port 37, the first-end gas port 38, and the second-end gas port 39 are also referred to as vacuum ports, etc. The liquid supply port 35, the plurality of liquid discharge ports 36, the intermediate gas port 37, the first-end gas port 38, and the second-end gas port 39 may be configured integrally with the housing 3 or may be separate members from the housing 3.

[0060] The liquid supply port 35 is provided in the second cover portion 33 and is a port that communicates between the inside and outside of the housing 3. The liquid supply port 35 extends in a pipe shape from the second cover portion 33 to the inside of the housing 3 and is connected to the end 21e of the liquid circulation pipe 21 of the second degassing element 2β on the second extension direction D2 side. The liquid supply port 35 is also in communication with the hollow portion 21a of the liquid circulation pipe 21 of the second degassing element 2β.

[0061] The plurality of liquid discharge ports 36 are configured by two liquid discharge ports 36: a first liquid discharge port 36α and a second liquid discharge port 36β.

[0062] The first liquid discharge port 36α is provided in the first cylindrical portion 31α and is a port that communicates between the inside and the outside of the housing 3. The first liquid discharge port 36α is adjacent to the first outer space S3α and is in communication with the first outer space S3α.

[0063] The second liquid discharge port 36β is a port that is provided in the second cylindrical portion 31β and that communicates between the inside and the outside of the housing 3. The second liquid discharge port 36β is adjacent to the second outer space S3β and is in communication with the second outer space S3β.

[0064] The intermediate gas port 37 is a port that is provided in the housing connecting portion 34 and that communicates between the inside and outside of the housing 3. The intermediate gas port 37 is adjacent to the intermediate communication space S4 and communicates with the intermediate communication space S4.

[0065] The first-end gas port 38 is a port that is provided in the first cover portion 32 and that communicates between the inside and the outside of the housing 3. The first-end gas port 38 is adjacent to the first-end communication space S5 and is in communication with the first-end communication space S5.

[0066] The second-end gas port 39 is a port that is provided in the second cover portion 33 and that communicates between the inside and the outside of the housing 3. The second-end gas port 39 is adjacent to the second-end communication space S6 and is in communication with the second-end communication space S6.

[0067] [Method of Degassing Liquid] Next, a method of degassing the liquid L using the degassing module 1 will be described. Here, as an example of a method of degassing the liquid L, a method of degassing the liquid L in a vacuum mode will be described.

[0068] In this degassing method, the intermediate gas port 37, the first end gas port 38, and the second end gas port 39 of the degassing module 1 are suctioned, and the liquid L is supplied to the liquid supply port 35 of the degassing module 1. The suction of the intermediate gas port 37, the first end gas port 38, and the second end gas port 39 can be performed, for example, by connecting a suction device (not shown) such as a vacuum pump to the intermediate gas port 37, the first end gas port 38, and the second end gas port 39 via piping or the like and activating this suction device. The supply of the liquid L to the liquid supply port 35 can be performed, for example, by connecting a liquid supply device (not shown) such as a liquid feed pump that sends out the liquid L via piping or the like to the liquid supply port 35 and activating this liquid supply device.

[0069] When the intermediate gas port 37, the first end gas port 38, and the second end gas port 39 are suctioned, the internal region R1 connected to the intermediate gas port 37, the first end gas port 38, and the second end gas port 39 is suctioned, and the internal region R1 is decompressed. Furthermore, when liquid L is supplied to the liquid supply port 35, the liquid L is supplied to the external region R2 connected to the liquid supply port 35. The liquid L supplied to the liquid supply port 35 is supplied to the hollow portions 21a of the liquid circulation pipes 21 of the first degassing element 2α and the second degassing element 2β. Some of the liquid L is then discharged from the multiple openings 21d of the liquid circulation pipe 21 of the first degassing element 2α into the first outer space S3α and comes into contact with the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 of the first degassing element 2α. The remaining liquid L is discharged from the multiple openings 21d of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the second degassing element 2β into the second outer space S3β and comes into contact with the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 of the second degassing element 2β. At this time, the hollow portions 22a of the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 in the first degassing element 2α and the second degassing element 2β are in a reduced pressure state, so that gas G, such as dissolved gas in the liquid L and bubbles contained in the liquid L, permeates the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22. This degasses the liquid L. The liquid L discharged and degassed into the first outer space S3α passes through the first gap S2α between the first degassing element 2α and the first cylindrical portion 31α and is discharged from the first liquid discharge port 36α. The liquid L discharged and degassed into the second outer space S3β passes through the second gap S2β between the second degassing element 2β and the second cylindrical portion 31β and is discharged from the second liquid discharge port 36β. The gas G that has permeated the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 of the first degassing element 2α and the second degassing element 2β passes through the hollow portions 22a, the intermediate communicating space S4, the first end communicating space S5, and the second end communicating space S6 of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 of the first degassing element 2α and the second degassing element 2β, and is discharged from the intermediate gas port 37, the first end gas port 38, and the second end gas port 39. More specifically, the gas G that has permeated the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 of the first degassing element 2α passes through the hollow portions 22a, the intermediate communicating space S4, and the first end communicating space S5 of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 of the first degassing element 2α, and is discharged from the intermediate gas port 37 and the first end gas port 38.The gas G that has permeated through the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 of the second degassing element 2β passes through the hollow portions 22a of the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 of the second degassing element 2β, the intermediate communicating space S4, and the second end communicating space S6, and is discharged from the intermediate gas port 37 and the second end gas port 39.

[0070] As described above, in the degassing module 1 according to this embodiment, the first degassing element 2α and the second degassing element 2β are arranged in the extension direction D, the liquid circulation pipe 21 of the first degassing element 2α and the liquid circulation pipe 21 of the second degassing element 2β are connected by the pipe connection 4, and the partition 7 divides the area within the housing 3, with the hollow fiber membranes 22 as the boundary, into an inner area R1 including the hollow portions 22a of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 and an outer area R2 including the hollow portions 21a of the liquid circulation pipe 21. Therefore, the liquid L can be degassed in the first degassing element 2α and the second degassing element 2β, making it possible to increase the flow rate of the liquid L to be degassed. In this degassing module 1, the housing 3 has a first cylindrical portion 31α that surrounds the first degassing element 2α, a second cylindrical portion 31β that surrounds the second degassing element 2β, a first liquid discharge port 36α provided in the first cylindrical portion 31α for discharging the liquid L that has left the liquid flow pipe 21, and a second liquid discharge port 36β provided in the second cylindrical portion 31β for discharging the liquid L that has left the liquid flow pipe 21. This shortens the discharge path length of the liquid L in the gap S2 between the first degassing element 2α and the second degassing element 2β and the housing 3. This reduces the pressure loss of the liquid L flowing through the gap S2, allowing the diameters of the first cylindrical portion 31α and the second cylindrical portion 31β to be reduced. This prevents the degassing module 1 from becoming larger.

[0071] Furthermore, in this degassing module 1, the end 21f of the hollow portion 21a of the liquid circulation pipe 21 of the first degassing element 2α on the side of the first extension direction D1 is blocked by the baffle 5, and a liquid supply port 35 is connected to the end 21e of the liquid circulation pipe 21 of the second degassing element 2β on the side of the second extension direction D2. Therefore, when liquid L is supplied to the liquid supply port 35, the liquid L is supplied to the hollow portion 21a of the liquid circulation pipe 21 in the first degassing element 2α and the second degassing element 2β, exits the liquid circulation pipe 21 through the multiple openings 21d, and is degassed by coming into contact with the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22. Thereafter, the liquid L that has been degassed by coming into contact with the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 is discharged from the first liquid discharge port 36α and the second liquid discharge port 36β without returning to the hollow portion 21a of the liquid circulation pipe 21. That is, the liquid L does not flow in a direction that presses the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 against the liquid circulation pipe 21, but rather in a direction that moves the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 away from the liquid circulation pipe 21. This makes it possible to suppress an increase in pressure loss when the liquid L passes through the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22, and therefore to suppress a decrease in the flow rate of the liquid L. As a result, for example, a liquid supply device with a relatively low output can be used to supply liquid to the first degassing element 2α and the second degassing element 2β.

[0072] Furthermore, in this degassing module 1, a first end communication space S5 that communicates with the hollow portions 22a of the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 of the first degassing element 2a is formed on the side of the first degassing element 2a in the first extension direction D1, and a first end gas port 38 is adjacent to the first end communication space S5 and communicates with the first end communication space S5. Therefore, it is possible to suction the hollow portions 22a of the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 or supply a sweep gas to the hollow portions 22a of the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 from the end of the first degassing element 2a on the side of the first extension direction D1. This further improves the degassing efficiency.

[0073] Furthermore, in this degassing module 1, a second end communication space S6 that communicates with the hollow portions 22a of the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 of the second degassing element 2β is formed on the side of the second degassing element 2β in the second extension direction D2, and a second end gas port 39 is adjacent to the second end communication space S6 and communicates with the second end communication space S6. Therefore, it is possible to suction the hollow portions 22a of the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 or supply a sweep gas to the hollow portions 22a of the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 from the end of the second degassing element 2β on the side of the second extension direction D2. This further improves the degassing efficiency.

[0074] Furthermore, in this degassing module 1, an intermediate communication space S4 is formed between the first degassing element 2α and the second degassing element 2β, which are adjacent to each other in the extending direction D. The intermediate communication space S4 is connected to the hollow portions 22 a of the hollow fiber membranes 22 of the first degassing element 2α and the hollow portions 22 a of the hollow fiber membranes 22 of the second degassing element 2β. An intermediate gas port 37 is adjacent to the intermediate communication space S4 and is connected to the intermediate communication space S4. This allows the hollow portions 22 a of the hollow fiber membranes 22 to be suctioned or a sweep gas to be supplied to the hollow portions 22 a of the hollow fiber membranes 22 from between the first degassing element 2α and the second degassing element 2β. This shortens the discharge path length of the gas G that has permeated the hollow fiber membranes 22 and reduces the imbalance between the discharge force of the gas G acting on the first degassing element 2α and the discharge force of the gas G acting on the second degassing element 2β, thereby further improving the degassing efficiency.

[0075] Furthermore, in this degassing module 1, the multiple cylindrical portions 31 include a first cylindrical portion 31α that surrounds the periphery of the first degassing element 1α and a second cylindrical portion 31β that surrounds the periphery of the second degassing element 1β, the housing 3 has a housing connection portion 34 that connects the first cylindrical portion 31α and the second cylindrical portion 31β, and the intermediate communication space S4 is formed between the housing connection portion 34 and the pipe connection portion 4. Therefore, the intermediate communication space S4 can be formed between the first degassing element 1α and the second degassing element 1β with a simple configuration.

[0076] In this degassing module 1, the outer region R2 has a first outer space S3α located between the first sealed portion 71α and the second sealed portion 72α and a second outer space S3β located between the third sealed portion 71β and the fourth sealed portion 72β, the first liquid discharge port 36α is adjacent to the first outer space S3α and communicates with the first outer space S3α, and the second liquid discharge port 36β is adjacent to the second outer space S3β and communicates with the second outer space S3β. Therefore, the liquid L discharged from the plurality of openings 21d of the liquid circulation pipe 21 of the first degassing element 2α to the first outer space S3α does not flow into the second outer space S3β, but comes into contact with the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 of the first degassing element 2α and is degassed, and then passes through the first gap S2α between the first degassing element 2α and the first tubular portion 31α and is discharged from the first liquid discharge port 36α. Furthermore, the liquid L discharged from the plurality of openings 21d of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the second degassing element 2β into the second outer space S3β does not flow into the first outer space S3α, but comes into contact with the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 of the second degassing element 2β and is degassed, and then passes through the second gap S2β between the second degassing element 2β and the second tubular portion 31β and is discharged from the second liquid discharge port 36β. This further shortens the discharge path length of the liquid L discharged from the plurality of openings 21d of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first degassing element 2α and the second degassing element 2β, thereby further preventing the first tubular portion 31α and the second tubular portion 31β from becoming larger.

[0077] Furthermore, in this degassing module 1, the hollow portions 21a and intermediate liquid flow passages S1 of the liquid flow pipes 21 of the first degassing element 2α and the second degassing element 2β are not provided with any members other than the baffles 5 that block the movement of the liquid L in the extension direction D. For this reason, the liquid L that comes out of the liquid flow pipes 21 of the first degassing element 2α and the second degassing element 2β is discharged from the first liquid discharge port 36α and the second liquid discharge port 36β without returning to the first degassing element 2α and the second degassing element 2β.

[0078] Consider a comparative example of a degassing module in which a baffle or other member is provided to block either the hollow portion or the intermediate communication space of the liquid flow pipe of the first end degassing element or the second end degassing element so that the liquid supplied to the liquid flow pipe exits the liquid flow pipe and returns to the liquid flow pipe. In this comparative example of a degassing module, the liquid exiting the liquid flow pipe presses the hollow fiber membranes against the liquid flow pipe as it returns to the liquid flow pipe, narrowing the liquid flow path and increasing the pressure loss of the liquid. This increase in liquid pressure loss becomes more pronounced as the flow rate of the liquid increases. This reduces the flow rate of the liquid, making it necessary to use a high-output liquid supply device (not shown), such as a liquid feed pump, to supply the liquid to the degassing module.

[0079] In contrast, in this degassing module 1, other than the baffle 5 that closes the end 21f of the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first degassing element 2α on the side in the first extension direction D1, no member that blocks the movement of the liquid L in the extension direction D is provided in the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first degassing element 2α and the second degassing element 2β and the intermediate liquid flow passage S1. Therefore, in the first degassing element 2α and the second degassing element 2β, the liquid L that comes out of the liquid flow pipe 21 is discharged from the first liquid discharge port 36α and the second liquid discharge port 36β without returning to the liquid flow pipe 21. Therefore, compared to the degassing module of the comparative example, the pressure loss of the liquid is reduced and the flow rate of the liquid is improved, so that a liquid supply device with a relatively low output can be used.

[0080] In the liquid degassing method according to the present embodiment, when the intermediate gas port 37, the first end gas port 38, and the second end gas port 39 are suctioned and the liquid L is supplied to the liquid supply port 35 in the degassing module 1, the liquid L is degassed in the first degassing element 2α and the second degassing element 2β, thereby enabling a large flow rate of the liquid L to be degassed. In the degassing module 1, the housing 3 includes a first cylindrical portion 31α surrounding the first degassing element 2α, a second cylindrical portion 31β surrounding the second degassing element 2β, a first liquid discharge port 36α provided in the first cylindrical portion 31α for discharging the liquid L exiting the liquid flow pipe 21, and a second liquid discharge port 36β provided in the second cylindrical portion 31β for discharging the liquid L exiting the liquid flow pipe 21. This shortens the discharge path length of the liquid L in the gap S2 between the housing 3 and the first degassing element 2α or the second degassing element 2β. This reduces the pressure loss of the liquid L flowing through the gap S2, allowing the diameters of the first cylindrical portion 31α and the second cylindrical portion 31β to be reduced, thereby preventing the degassing module 1 from becoming large.

[0081] By degassing seawater as the liquid L, the carbon dioxide concentration in the seawater can be reduced, and thus the carbon dioxide concentration in the atmosphere can be reduced.

[0082] Although the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, the present disclosure is not limited to the above embodiments.

[0083] For example, in the above embodiment, the gas port for discharging the gas G that has permeated the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 is described as including three gas ports: an intermediate gas port 37 adjacent to the intermediate communication space S4 and communicating with the intermediate communication space S4, a first end gas port 38 adjacent to the first end communication space S5 and communicating with the first end communication space S5, and a second end gas port 39 adjacent to the second end communication space S6 and communicating with the second end communication space S6. However, as long as at least one of these gas ports is provided, the other gas ports may not be provided.

[0084] Fig. 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another example of a degassing module. The degassing module 1A shown in Fig. 11 includes gas ports for discharging gas G that has permeated through the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22: a first-end gas port 38 adjacent to the first-end communication space S5 and communicating with the first-end communication space S5, and a second-end gas port 39 adjacent to the second-end communication space S6 and communicating with the second-end communication space S6. Furthermore, the housing connection portion 34A of the housing 3A, which corresponds to the housing connection portion 34 of the housing 3, does not include an intermediate gas port adjacent to the intermediate communication space S4 and communicating with the intermediate communication space S4.

[0085] In addition, in the above embodiment, the degassing module has been described as including two degassing elements, but the degassing module may include three or more degassing elements. When the degassing module includes three or more degassing elements, each cylindrical portion of the housing surrounding each degassing element may be provided with a liquid discharge port for discharging the liquid that has come out of the liquid circulation pipe.

[0086] Fig. 12 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another example of a degassing module. In the degassing module 1B shown in Fig. 12, three degassing elements 2 are housed in a housing 3B corresponding to the housing 3. The three degassing elements 2 are composed of a first degassing element 2α, a second degassing element 2β, and a third degassing element 2γ.

[0087] The first degassing element 2α and the second degassing element 2β are degassing elements 2 adjacent to each other in the extension direction D. In the relationship between the first degassing element 2α and the second degassing element 2β, the first degassing element 2α is a first-side degassing element arranged on the first extension direction D1 side of the second degassing element 2β, and the second degassing element 2β is a second-side degassing element arranged on the second extension direction D2 side of the first degassing element 2α.

[0088] The second degassing element 2β and the third degassing element 2γ are degassing elements 2 adjacent to each other in the extension direction D. In the relationship between the second degassing element 2β and the third degassing element 2γ, the second degassing element 2β is a first-side degassing element arranged on the first extension direction D1 side of the third degassing element 2γ, and the third degassing element 2γ is a second-side degassing element arranged on the second extension direction D2 side of the second degassing element 2β.

[0089] In addition, the first degassing element 2α is also the first end degassing element located at the end of the multiple degassing elements 2 in the first extension direction D1, and the third degassing element 2γ is also the second end degassing element located at the end of the multiple degassing elements 2 in the second extension direction D2.

[0090] The liquid circulation pipe 21 of the first degassing element 2α and the liquid circulation pipe 21 of the second degassing element 2β are connected by a pipe connection 4, and the liquid circulation pipe 21 of the second degassing element 2β and the liquid circulation pipe 21 of the third degassing element 2γ are also connected by a pipe connection 4. The pipe connection 4 connecting the liquid circulation pipe 21 of the first degassing element 2α and the liquid circulation pipe 21 of the second degassing element 2β is referred to as the first pipe connection 4α. The pipe connection 4 connecting the liquid circulation pipe 21 of the second degassing element 2β and the liquid circulation pipe 21 of the third degassing element 2γ is referred to as the second pipe connection 4β. The first pipe connection 4α and the second pipe connection 4β each form an intermediate liquid flow passage S1.

[0091] The housing 3B accommodates the first degassing element 2α, the second degassing element 2β, and the third degassing element 2γ so that the first degassing element 2α, the second degassing element 2β, and the third degassing element 2γ are arranged in the extension direction D and a gap S2 is formed between the first degassing element 2α, the second degassing element 2β, and the third degassing element 2γ and the housing 3B.

[0092] The housing 3B comprises a first cylindrical portion 31α surrounding the first degassing element 2α, a second cylindrical portion 31β surrounding the second degassing element 2β, a third cylindrical portion 31γ covering the third degassing element 2γ, a first lid portion 32 connected to the end of the first cylindrical portion 31α on the first extension direction D1 side, a second lid portion 33 connected to the end of the third cylindrical portion 31γ on the second extension direction D2 side, a first housing connection portion 34α connecting the first cylindrical portion 31α and the second cylindrical portion 31β, and a second housing connection portion 34β connecting the second cylindrical portion 31β and the third cylindrical portion 31γ.

[0093] The baffle 5 closes the end 21f of the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the first degassing element 2α on the first extension direction D1 side. The baffle 5 is attached only to the first degassing element 2α and does not close the hollow portion 22a of the liquid flow pipe 21 of the second degassing element 2β or the third degassing element 2γ. Note that, other than the baffle 5, no member for preventing the movement of the liquid L in the extension direction D is provided in the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21 or each intermediate liquid flow passage S1 of the first degassing element 2α, the second degassing element 2β, and the third degassing element 2γ.

[0094] The partition 7 has a first sealing portion 71α, a second sealing portion 72α, a third sealing portion 71β, a fourth sealing portion 72β, a fifth sealing portion 71γ, and a sixth sealing portion 72γ. The first sealing portion 71α seals between the first fixing portion 24 of the first degassing element 2α and the first cylindrical portion 31α. The second sealing portion 72α seals between the second fixing portion 25 of the first degassing element 2α and the first cylindrical portion 31α. The third sealing portion 71β seals between the first fixing portion 24 of the second degassing element 2β and the second cylindrical portion 31β. The fourth sealing portion 72β seals between the second fixing portion 25 of the second degassing element 2β and the second cylindrical portion 31β. The fifth sealing portion 71γ seals between the first fixing portion 24 of the third degassing element 2γ and the third cylindrical portion 31γ. The sixth sealing portion 72γ seals the gap between the second fixing portion 25 of the third degassing element 2γ and the third cylindrical portion 31γ.

[0095] Therefore, an intermediate communication space S4 is formed between the first housing connection portion 34α and the first pipe connection portion 4α and between the second housing connection portion 34β and the second pipe connection portion 4β. A first end communication space S5 is formed on the first extension direction D1 side of the first degassing element 2α. A second end communication space S6 is formed on the second extension direction D2 side of the third degassing element 2γ.

[0096] Furthermore, the space S3 outside the liquid flow pipe 21, which is in communication with the hollow portion 21a of the liquid flow pipe 21, is divided into three spaces: a first outer space S3α located between the first sealing portion 71α and the second sealing portion 72α, a second outer space S3β located between the third sealing portion 71β and the fourth sealing portion 72β, and a third outer space S3γ located between the fifth sealing portion 71γ and the sixth sealing portion 72γ. Therefore, the gaps S2 between the first degassing element 2α, the second degassing element 2β, and the third degassing element 2γ and the housing 3B are also divided into three gaps: a first gap S2α between the first degassing element 2α and the first cylindrical portion 31α, a second gap S2β between the second degassing element 2β and the second cylindrical portion 31β, and a third gap S2γ between the third degassing element 2γ and the third cylindrical portion 31γ.

[0097] The housing 3 has a liquid supply port 35 , three liquid discharge ports 36 , two middle gas ports 37 , a first end gas port 38 , and a second end gas port 39 .

[0098] The liquid supply port 35 extends in a pipe shape from the second lid portion 33 to the inside of the housing 3 and is connected to the end 21 e of the liquid circulation pipe 21 of the third degassing element 2γ on the second extension direction D2 side. The liquid supply port 35 is in communication with the hollow portion 21 a of the liquid circulation pipe 21 of the third degassing element 2γ.

[0099] The three liquid discharge ports 36 are composed of a first liquid discharge port 36α provided in the first cylindrical portion 31α, a second liquid discharge port 36β provided in the second cylindrical portion 31β, and a third liquid discharge port 36γ provided in the third cylindrical portion 31γ. The first liquid discharge port 36α is adjacent to the first outer space S3α and is connected to the first outer space S3α. The second liquid discharge port 36β is adjacent to the second outer space S3β and is connected to the second outer space S3β. The third liquid discharge port 36γ is adjacent to the third outer space S3γ and is connected to the third outer space S3γ.

[0100] The two intermediate gas ports 37 are composed of a first intermediate gas port 37α provided in the first housing connecting portion 34α and a second intermediate gas port 37β provided in the second housing connecting portion 34β. The first intermediate gas port 37α and the second intermediate gas port 37β are adjacent to the intermediate communication space S4 and are in communication with the intermediate communication space S4.

[0101] The first end gas port 38 is provided in the first cover portion 32. The first end gas port 38 is adjacent to the first end communicating space S5 and communicates with the first end communicating space S5.

[0102] The second end gas port 39 is provided in the second cover portion 33. The second end gas port 39 is adjacent to the second end communicating space S6 and communicates with the second end communicating space S6.

[0103] When degassing the liquid L in vacuum mode using the degassing module 1B, the first intermediate gas port 37α, the second intermediate gas port 37β, the first end gas port 38, and the second end gas port 39 of the degassing module 1B are suctioned, and the liquid L is supplied to the liquid supply port 35 of the degassing module 1B. As a result, the liquid L supplied to the liquid supply port 35 is degassed in the first degassing element 2α, the second degassing element 2β, and the third degassing element 2γ, and is discharged from the first liquid discharge port 36α, the second liquid discharge port 36β, and the third liquid discharge port 36γ. The gas G that has permeated the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 in the first degassing element 2α, the second degassing element 2β, and the third degassing element 2γ passes through the hollow portions 22a of the multiple hollow fiber membranes 22 of the first degassing element 2α, the second degassing element 2β, and the third degassing element 2γ, each intermediate communicating space S4, the first end communicating space S5, and the second end communicating space S6, and is discharged from the first intermediate gas port 37α, the second intermediate gas port 37β, the first end gas port 38, and the second end gas port 39.

[0104] As described above, in the degassing module 1B, the housing 3 includes a first cylindrical portion 31α surrounding the first degassing element 2α, a second cylindrical portion 31β surrounding the second degassing element 2β, a third cylindrical portion 31γ surrounding the third degassing element 2γ, a first liquid discharge port 36α provided in the first cylindrical portion 31α, a second liquid discharge port 36β provided in the second cylindrical portion 31β, and a third liquid discharge port 36γ provided in the third cylindrical portion 31γ. This shortens the discharge path length of the liquid L in the gaps S2 between the first degassing element 2α, the second degassing element 2β, and the third degassing element 2γ and the housing 3B. This reduces the pressure loss of the liquid L flowing through the gaps S2, allowing the diameters of the first cylindrical portion 31α, the second cylindrical portion 31β, and the third cylindrical portion 31γ to be reduced. This prevents the degassing module 1B from becoming too large.

[0105] In addition, in the above embodiment, the liquid L is described as being degassed using the vacuum mode, but the liquid L may also be degassed using the sweep mode, or the liquid L may be degassed using a combo mode that combines the sweep mode and the vacuum mode.

[0106] 13 and 14 are schematic cross-sectional views of a degassing module illustrating another example of a method for degassing a liquid. As illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 14 , when degassing a liquid L in vacuum mode using the degassing module 1 of the above embodiment, a sweep gas SG is supplied to at least one of the intermediate gas port 37, the first end gas port 38, and the second end gas port 39 of the degassing module 1, and the liquid L is supplied to the liquid supply port 35 of the degassing module 1. The sweep gas SG may be, for example, an inert gas such as air (dry air), nitrogen gas, or argon gas. This allows for a large flow rate of the liquid L to be degassed while minimizing the device's size, as in the above embodiment. Note that FIGS. 13 and 14 show only the housing 3 in cross section.

[0107] 13, the sweep gas SG is not supplied to the first end gas port 38 and the second end gas port 39, but the sweep gas GS is supplied to the intermediate gas port 37, and the liquid L is supplied to the liquid supply port 35 of the degassing module 1. The method shown in FIG. 13 can be performed in either the sweep mode or the combination mode.

[0108] 13 is performed in sweep mode, the middle gas port 37 serves as an air supply port, and the first and second end gas ports 38 and 39 serve as exhaust ports open to atmospheric pressure. A sweep gas GS is supplied to the middle gas port 37, and liquid L is supplied to the liquid supply port 35 of the degassing module 1. The supply of the sweep gas SG to the middle gas port 37 can be achieved, for example, by connecting the middle gas port 37 to a gas supply device (not shown), such as a gas cylinder and regulator, via piping or the like, and activating this gas supply device. The gas G that has permeated the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 is then scavenged (swept) by the sweep gas SG supplied to the middle gas port 37 and discharged (opened to the atmosphere) from the first and second end gas ports 38 and 39.

[0109] 13 is performed in the combo mode, the middle gas port 37 serves as an air supply port, and the first and second end gas ports 38 and 39 serve as suction ports. A sweep gas GS is supplied to the middle gas port 37, suction is applied to the first and second end gas ports 38 and 39, and liquid L is supplied to the liquid supply port 35 of the degassing module 1. The suction of the first and second end gas ports 38 and 39 can be performed, for example, in the same manner as in the above embodiment. Then, gas G that has permeated the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 is swept by the sweep gas SG supplied to the middle gas port 37, is sucked into the first and second end gas ports 38 and 39, and is discharged from the first and second end gas ports 38 and 39. This improves the discharge efficiency of gas G that has permeated the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22.

[0110] 14, the sweep gas SG is not supplied to the intermediate gas port 37, but the sweep gas GS is supplied to the first end gas port 38 and the second end gas port 39, and the liquid L is supplied to the liquid supply port 35 of the degassing module 1. The method shown in FIG. 14 can be performed in either the sweep mode or the combination mode.

[0111] 14 is performed in sweep mode, the first and second gas ports 38 and 39 are used as gas supply ports, and the middle gas port 37 is used as an exhaust port open to atmospheric pressure. A sweep gas GS is supplied to the first and second gas ports 38 and 39, and liquid L is supplied to the liquid supply port 35 of the degassing module 1. The supply of the sweep gas SG to the first and second gas ports 38 and 39 can be achieved, for example, by connecting a gas supply device (not shown) to the first and second gas ports 38 and 39 via piping or the like and activating the gas supply device. The gas G that has permeated the hollow fiber membranes 22 is then swept by the sweep gas SG supplied to the first and second gas ports 38 and 39 and discharged (opened to the atmosphere) from the middle gas port 37.

[0112] 14 is performed in the combo mode, the first end gas port 38 and the second end gas port 39 serve as gas supply ports, and the middle gas port 37 serves as a suction port. A sweep gas GS is supplied to the first end gas port 38 and the second end gas port 39, suction is applied to the middle gas port 37, and liquid L is supplied to the liquid supply port 35 of the degassing module 1. Suction through the middle gas port 37 can be performed, for example, in the same manner as in the above embodiment. Then, gas G that has permeated the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22 is swept by the sweep gas SG supplied to the first end gas port 38 and the second end gas port 39, and is sucked into and discharged from the middle gas port 37. This improves the discharge efficiency of gas G that has permeated the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 22.

[0113] DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1... degassing module, 1A... degassing module, 1B... degassing module, 2... degassing element, 2a... first element end, 2b... second element end, 2α... first degassing element, 2β... second degassing element, 2γ... third degassing element, 3... housing, 3A... housing, 3B... housing, 4... pipe connection part, 4α... first pipe connection part, 4β... second pipe connection part, 5... baffle, 7... partition part, 21... liquid flow pipe, 21a... hollow portion, 21b...first end liquid circulation pipe opening, 21c...second end liquid circulation pipe opening, 21d...opening, 21e...end portion, 21f...end portion, 22...hollow fiber membrane, 22a...hollow portion, 22b...first end hollow fiber membrane opening, 22c...second end hollow fiber membrane opening, 24...first fixing portion, 25...second fixing portion, 31...cylindrical portion, 31α...first cylindrical portion, 31β...second cylindrical portion, 31γ...third cylindrical portion, 32...first cover portion, 33...second cover portion, 34...housing connecting portion, 34A...housing connecting portion, 34α ...first housing connection portion, 34β...second housing connection portion, 35...liquid supply port, 36...liquid discharge port, 36α...first liquid discharge port, 36β...second liquid discharge port, 36γ...third liquid discharge port, 37...intermediate gas port, 37α...first intermediate gas port, 37β...second intermediate gas port, 38...first end gas port, 39...second end gas port, 71α...first sealing portion, 72α...second sealing portion, 71β...third sealing portion, 72β...fourth sealing portion, 71 γ... Fifth sealing part, 72γ... Sixth sealing part, D... Extending direction, D1... First extending direction, D2... Second extending direction, G... Gas, L... Liquid, R1... Internal region, R2... External region, S1... Intermediate liquid flow path, S2... Gap, S2α... First gap, S 2β...second gap, S2γ...third gap, S3...space, S3α...first outer space, S3β...second outer space, S3γ...third outer space, S4...intermediate communication space, S5...first end communication space, S6...second end communication space, SG...sweep gas.

Claims

1. A degassing module having a liquid flow pipe in which a plurality of openings are formed and extending in an extending direction, a plurality of hollow fiber membranes arranged around the liquid flow pipe so as to cover the plurality of openings, and a plurality of degassing elements arranged in the extending direction; a housing that houses the plurality of degassing elements; a pipe connection portion that connects the liquid flow pipes of the adjacent degassing elements among the plurality of degassing elements; and a partition portion that partitions a region in the housing into an internal region including the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes and an external region including the hollow portion of the liquid flow pipe, with the plurality of hollow fiber membranes as a boundary. The housing has a plurality of cylindrical portions surrounding each of the plurality of degassing elements, a liquid supply port for supplying liquid to the hollow portion of the liquid flow pipe, a gas port for discharging gas that has passed through the plurality of hollow fiber membranes, and a plurality of liquid discharge ports provided in each of the plurality of cylindrical portions for discharging the liquid that has exited the liquid flow pipe.

2. The degassing module according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of degassing elements include a first end degassing element located at an end in a first extending direction, which is one direction in the extending direction, and a second end degassing element located at an end in a second extending direction, which is the direction opposite to the first extending direction in the extending direction. The end portion of the hollow portion of the liquid flow pipe of the first end degassing element on the first extending direction side is blocked, and the liquid supply port is connected to the end portion of the liquid flow pipe of the second end degassing element on the second extending direction side.

3. The degassing module according to claim 2, wherein a first end communication space communicating with the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes of the first end degassing element is formed on the first extending direction side of the first end degassing element, and the gas port has a first end gas port adjacent to and communicating with the first end communication space.

4. The degassing module according to claim 2 or 3, wherein a second end communication space communicating with the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes of the second end degassing element is formed on the second extending direction side of the second end degassing element, and the gas port has a second end gas port adjacent to and communicating with the second end communication space.

5. The plurality of degassing elements includes a first-side degassing element and a second-side degassing element adjacent to each other in the extending direction. An intermediate communication space is formed between the first-side degassing element and the second-side degassing element and is in communication with the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes of the first-side degassing element and the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes of the second-side degassing element. The gas port has an intermediate gas port adjacent to and in communication with the intermediate communication space. The degassing module according to any one of claims 2 to 4.

6. A first-end communication space is formed on the first extending direction side of the first-end degassing element and is in communication with the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes of the first-end degassing element. A second-end communication space is formed on the second extending direction side of the second-end degassing element and is in communication with the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes of the second-end degassing element. The plurality of degassing elements includes a first-side degassing element and a second-side degassing element adjacent to each other in the extending direction. An intermediate communication space is formed between the first-side degassing element and the second-side degassing element and is in communication with the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes of the first-side degassing element and the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes of the second-side degassing element. The gas port has a first-end gas port adjacent to and in communication with the first-end communication space, a second-end gas port adjacent to and in communication with the second-end communication space, and an intermediate gas port adjacent to and in communication with the intermediate communication space. The degassing module according to claim 2.

7. The plurality of cylindrical portions includes a first cylindrical portion surrounding the first-side degassing element and a second cylindrical portion surrounding the second-side degassing element. The housing has a housing connection portion connecting the first cylindrical portion and the second cylindrical portion. The intermediate communication space is formed between the housing connection portion and the pipe connection portion. The degassing module according to claim 5 or 6.

8. Each of the plurality of degassing elements is located at an end on the first extending direction side, which is one direction in the extending direction, and seals between the liquid flow pipe and the plurality of hollow fiber membranes to open the hollow portion of the liquid flow pipe and the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes. A first fixing portion for fixing the plurality of hollow fiber membranes to the liquid flow pipe; Located at an end on the second extending direction side, which is the direction opposite to the first extending direction in the extending direction, and seals between the liquid flow pipe and the plurality of hollow fiber membranes to open the hollow portion of the liquid flow pipe and the plurality of hollow fiber membranes. A second fixing portion for fixing the plurality of hollow fiber membranes to the liquid flow pipe; The partition portion includes a first sealing portion that seals between the first fixing portion of the first side degassing element and the first cylindrical portion, a second sealing portion that seals between the second fixing portion of the first side degassing element and the first cylindrical portion, and a third sealing portion that seals between the first fixing portion of the second side degassing element and the second cylindrical portion. A fourth sealing portion that seals between the second fixing portion of the second side degassing element and the second cylindrical portion; The external region has a first outer space located between the first sealing portion and the second sealing portion, and a second outer space located between the third sealing portion and the fourth sealing portion; The plurality of liquid discharge ports include a first liquid discharge port adjacent to the first outer space and communicating with the first outer space, and a second liquid discharge port adjacent to the second outer space and communicating with the second outer space. The degassing module according to claim 7.

9. Each of the plurality of degassing elements is located at an end on the first extending direction side, which is one direction in the extending direction, and seals between the liquid flow pipe and the plurality of hollow fiber membranes to open the hollow portion of the liquid flow pipe and the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes. A first fixing portion for fixing the plurality of hollow fiber membranes to the liquid flow pipe; and a second extending direction side end portion in the extending direction, which is opposite to the first extending direction, and seals between the liquid flow pipe and the plurality of hollow fiber membranes. A second fixing portion for fixing the plurality of hollow fiber membranes to the liquid flow pipe so as to open the hollow portion of the liquid flow pipe and the hollow portions of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes; The partition portion includes a first sealing portion that seals between the first fixing portion of each of the plurality of degassing elements and the cylindrical portion, and a second sealing portion that seals between the second fixing portion of each of the plurality of degassing elements and the cylindrical portion. The degassing module according to any one of claims 2 to 7.

10. A method for degassing a liquid using the degassing module according to any one of claims 1 to 9, comprising sucking the gas port of the degassing module and supplying a liquid to the liquid supply port of the degassing module. A method for degassing a liquid.

11. A method for degassing a liquid using the degassing module according to claim 6, comprising supplying a sweep gas to at least one of the intermediate gas port, the first end gas port, and the second end gas port of the degassing module, and supplying a liquid to the liquid supply port of the degassing module. A method for degassing a liquid.

12. The method for degassing a liquid according to claim 11, wherein a sweep gas is supplied to the intermediate gas port of the degassing module.

13. The method for degassing a liquid according to claim 12, wherein the first end gas port and the second end gas port of the degassing module are sucked.

14. The method for degassing a liquid according to claim 11, wherein a sweep gas is supplied to the first end gas port and the second end gas port of the degassing module.

15. The method for degassing a liquid according to claim 14, wherein the intermediate gas port of the degassing module is sucked.

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