A zero waste water ionizer and a method for eliminating acidic water using the same

The zero waste water ionizer addresses the inefficiency of acidic water disposal by converting it into neutralized water using an alkalizer and neutralizer units, ensuring complete utilization and integration with existing filtration systems, thereby reducing waste and costs.

WO2026022837A1PCT designated stage Publication Date: 2026-01-29ION EXCHANGE INDIA
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Patent Information

Application Number
PCT/IN2025/050166
Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2024-07-26
Filing Date
2025-02-07
Publication Date
2026-01-29

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Current water ionizers generate significant amounts of acidic water, which is typically wasted, leading to environmental pollution, economic inefficiency, and operational challenges due to the lack of effective utilization or neutralization methods.

Method used

A zero waste water ionizer system that includes an alkalizer unit producing alkaline and acidic streams, and a neutralizer unit converting acidic water into neutralized water through electrochemical reactions, utilizing an anode and cathode chambers with an ion selective membrane, generating oxygen and hydrogen gases to achieve pH neutralization.

Benefits of technology

The system effectively converts all acidic water into neutralized water, reducing waste, enhancing efficiency, and integrating seamlessly with existing filtration systems, thus minimizing environmental impact and operational costs.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The present invention is directed to a zero waste water ionizer and a method of eliminating acidic water using the same. The ionizer includes an alkalizer unit having an inlet for receiving feed water, a first water outlet for discharging alkaline water having a pH ranging between 8.5 to 10.5, and a second water outlet for discharging acidic water having a pH ranging between 3.5 to 5.5; and a neutralizer unit coupled with the alkalizer unit, said neutralizer unit having a first inlet, a second inlet, at least one gas outlet and a water outlet. Acidic water is generated in an anode chamber of the alkalizer unit. The water outlet discharges neutralized water having a pH ranging between 6.0 to 7.5.
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Description

[0001] A ZERO WASTE WATER IONIZER AND A METHOD FOR ELIMINATING ACIDIC WATER USING THE SAME

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003]

[0001] The present invention relates to a zero waste water ionizer and a method of eliminating acidic water using the same.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005]

[0002] Water ionizers predominantly generate alkaline water which is widely used in households for wellness and therapeutic purposes. The demand for these devices is driven by various clinical studies that point towards significant health benefits associated with alkaline water. Specifically, alkaline water is believed to scavenge free radicals in the body, thereby preventing or mitigating various diseases.

[0006]

[0003] Various research in this field suggests that alkaline water, characterized by a higher pH level, may help neutralize acidity in the body. This neutralization process can help reduce oxidative stress, which is associated with a range of health conditions. By consuming alkaline water, individuals may experience improvements in hydration, detoxification, and overall wellness. It is also being extensively used in cooking to enhance the nutritional value and taste of food.

[0007]

[0004] Drinking water alkalizers operate by splitting the inlet feed water into two distinct streams: alkaline drinking water and acidic water. The alkaline stream, with a higher pH, is intended for direct consumption and culinary purposes. Whereas the acidic stream, a byproduct of the ionization process with a lower pH, is typically used for disinfection and as an astringent.

[0008]

[0005] A significant challenge with current water ionizers is the wastage of acidic water. Approximately 50% of the feed water is transformed into acidic water, which is often discarded. For a household that consumes 20 liters of alkaline water daily, an equivalent 20 liters of acidic water is produced and typically wasted. Given a typical flow discharge rate of 1 to 2 liters per minute (LPM) for acidic water, this wastage represents not only a loss of valuable water resources but also an inefficiency in the overall water ionization process.

[0006] Further, the routine disposal of acidic water raises environmental and economic concerns. Environmentally, acidic water can contribute to pollution if not disposed of properly. It has the potential to contaminate soil and water sources, which can harm local ecosystems and reduce the quality of natural water supplies. Economically, the wastage of acidic water represents an inefficient use of resources. Consumers and businesses are effectively discarding half of the processed water, leading to increased water consumption and higher utility costs.

[0009]

[0007] Furthermore, storing and managing the acidic water byproduct can be cumbersome. Many users are not equipped with the necessary infrastructure to store or utilize acidic water, leading to its routine disposal. This not only contributes to environmental pollution but also underscores the inefficiency of current water ionizer technology. Addressing these challenges is crucial for developing more sustainable and efficient water ionization solutions that minimize waste and environmental impact.

[0010]

[0008] Existing solutions for managing the byproduct of water ionizers often fall short in addressing these issues effectively. Many current models lack built-in systems for the proper utilization or neutralization of acidic water, leading to its routine disposal. Some ionizers attempt to mitigate this by offering secondary uses for the acidic water, such as cleaning or sanitizing. However, these secondary uses are limited and do not fully address the volume of acidic water generated, resulting in continued wastage.

[0011]

[0009] Additionally, the complexity and inefficiency of the current water ionizer designs present further challenges. These devices often require regular maintenance to ensure the proper functioning of the electrolysis plates and to prevent mineral buildup, which can reduce efficiency. The need for frequent cleaning and replacement of parts not only adds to the operational costs but also complicates the user experience. Moreover, the initial cost of purchasing a water ionizer can be high, which, combined with ongoing maintenance expenses, may deter potential users. Furthermore, integrating these devices with commonly used household water purifiers such as reverse osmosis unit, microfilter unit, nanofiltration unit, and the likes is more often a challenge.

[0010] Addressing these inefficiencies and complexities is crucial for the advancement of water ionizer technology. There is a need for innovative solutions that can effectively manage and utilize the acidic byproduct, reduce maintenance requirements, and enhance overall efficiency to make these devices more sustainable and user-friendly.

[0012] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013]

[0011] In an aspect, the present invention is directed to a zero waste water ionizer. The ionizer comprises at least one power source, an alkalizer unit, and a neutralizer unit. The alkalizer unit is coupled with at least one power source. The alkalizer unit has an inlet for receiving feed water, a first water outlet for discharging alkaline water having a pH ranging between 8.5 to 10.5, and a second water outlet for discharging acidic water having a pH ranging between 3.5 to 5.5. The neutralizer unit is coupled with at least one power source and the alkalizer unit. The neutralizer unit has a first inlet, a second inlet, at least one gas outlet, and a water outlet. The neutralizer unit comprises an anode chamber, an ion selective membrane, and a cathode chamber. The anode chamber has an anode in flowable communication with the second water outlet of the alkalizer unit, thereby receiving the acidic water at the first inlet and undergoing an anode side reaction to generate oxygen gas as follows: 2H2O —> 02 + 4H++ 4e". The cathode chamber has a cathode in flowable communication with the anode chamber, thereby receiving the acidic water at the second inlet and undergoing a cathode side reaction to generate hydrogen gas as follows: 4H++ 4e" — 2H2. The water outlet discharges neutralized water having a pH ranging between 6.0 to 7.5. The ion selective membrane in the neutralizer unit is sandwiched between the anode chamber and the cathode chamber, thereby allowing flow of the acidic water containing hydrogen ion from the anode chamber to the cathode chamber.

[0014]

[0012] In an embodiment, the neutralized water from the water outlet is blended with the alkaline water at the first water outlet.

[0015]

[0013] In another embodiment, the water ionizer comprises a pump coupled with the alkalizer unit, and the neutralizer unit. The pump is capable of passing the neutralized water from the water outlet of the neutralizer unit to the outlet of the alkalizer unit.

[0016]

[0014] In yet another embodiment, the water ionizer comprises a microfilter unit having an inlet and an outlet. The microfilter unit is coupled with the alkalizer unit, and is capable of pretreating raw water, thereby generating the feed water.

[0017]

[0015] In a further embodiment, the feed water generated at the outlet of the microfilter unit is received at the inlet of the alkalizer unit.

[0018]

[0016] In another embodiment, the water ionizer comprises a reverse osmosis unit coupled with the alkalizer unit. The reverse osmosis unit has an inlet, a permeate outlet, and a reject outlet. The permeate outlet is coupled with the inlet of the alkalizer unit.

[0019]

[0017] In yet another embodiment, the feed water generated at the permeate outlet of the reverse osmosis unit is received at the inlet of the alkalizer unit.

[0020]

[0018] In still another embodiment, the acidic water generated in the alkalizer unit is completely converted to the neutralized water in the neutralizer unit, thereby resulting in zero waste water.

[0021]

[0019] In another aspect, the present invention is directed to a method for eliminating acidic water in a zero waste water ionizer. The method comprises supplying feed water to an inlet of an alkalizer unit, the alkalizer unit generating alkaline water having a pH ranging between 8.5 to 10.5 and acidic water having a pH ranging between 3.5 to 5.5, whereby alkaline water is discharged from a first water outlet and acidic water is discharged from a second water outlet; supplying acidic water to a neutralizer unit at a first water inlet and a second water inlet thereof, the neutralizer unit coupled with the alkalizer unit and generating oxygen gas, hydrogen gas, and discharging neutralized water having pH ranging between 6.0 to 7.5, wherein the neutralizer unit comprises: an anode chamber for generating oxygen gas via anode side reaction as follows: 2H2O —> 02 + 4H++ 4e", and a cathode chamber for generating hydrogen gas via a cathode side reaction as follows: 4H++ 4e" — 2H2; and blending the neutralized water from a water outlet of the neutralizer unit with the alkaline water at the first water outlet.

[0020] In an embodiment, the method comprises pretreating raw water in a microfilter unit and / or a reverse osmosis unit for generating feed water, wherein the microfilter unit and / or the reverse osmosis unit is coupled with the alkalizer unit.

[0022]

[0021] In another embodiment, the method comprises a pump coupled with the alkalizer unit and the neutralizer unit. The pump is capable of passing the neutralized water from the water outlet of the neutralizer unit to the first water outlet of the alkalizer unit.

[0023] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024]

[0022] Reference will be made to embodiments of the invention, examples of which may be illustrated in accompanying figures. These figures are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. Although the invention is generally described in context of these embodiments, it should be understood that it is not intended to limit the scope of the invention to these particular embodiments.

[0025] Figure 1 illustrates an exploded view of a zero waste water ionizer in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 2 is a schematic illustration showing a zero waste water ionizer, a microfilter unit and a reverse osmosis unit in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 3 is a schematic illustration showing an alkalizer unit and a neutralizer unit of the zero waste water ionizer of Figure 1.

[0028] Figure 4 illustrates a cell assembly view of the neutralizer unit of Figure 3 showing anode side reaction and cathode side reaction.

[0029] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0030]

[0023] Various features and embodiments of the present invention here will be discernible from the following further description thereof, set out hereunder.

[0031]

[0024] Herein, “zero waste water ionizer” is interchangeably also referred as “ionizer”. As used herein, the term "zero waste water" refers to a configuration and operational methodology wherein the entirety of the feed water subjected to the zero waste water ionizer is utilized in a manner that prevents any portion of the feed water from being discarded as waste. This includes the full and beneficial use of both alkaline and acidic water streams produced in an alkalizer unit of the zero waste water ionizer. Particularly, any acidic water generated in the alkalizer unit is completely converted to neutralized water in a neutralizer unit of the ionizer, thereby resulting in zero waste water.

[0032]

[0025] In the present context, a “microfilter unit” is a device designed to remove impurities and contaminants from raw water which might clog or choke the ionizer. A typical microfilter unit operates by passing raw water through various filtration media, which can include activated carbon, ceramic, or membrane filters, each targeting specific types of contaminants such as chlorine, sediment, bacteria, and heavy metals. The filtering process can significantly improve water taste, odor, and safety, ensuring that harmful substances are minimized or eliminated.

[0033]

[0026] As used herein, a “reverse osmosis (RO) unit”, interchangeably referred as “RO unit”, is a highly effective purification system utilizing a semi-permeable membrane to remove a wide range of contaminants. In the RO unit, water is forced through the membrane under pressure, allowing only water molecules to pass through while blocking impurities such as dissolved salts, bacteria, viruses, and chemicals. This method significantly reduces contaminants, providing clean, safe, and great-tasting drinking water. A typical RO unit often includes additional prefilters and post-filters to enhance performance and lifespan, making them a popular choice for households seeking comprehensive water purification.

[0034]

[0027] The present invention is directed towards a zero waste water ionizer and a method of eliminating acidic water using the same. Acidic water generated in the zero waste water ionizer is converted into neutralized water which is safe for drinking and cooking purposes.

[0035]

[0028] An aspect of the present invention is directed to a zero waste water ionizer.

[0029] Referring to Figure 1, the ionizer (100) includes at least one power source (not shown), an alkalizer unit (200) coupled with the at least one power source, and a neutralizer unit (300) coupled with the at least one power source. In an embodiment, the alkalizer unit (200) and the neutralizer unit (300) are coupled with separate power sources. In another embodiment, the alkalizer unit (200) and the neutralizer unit (300) are coupled with the same power source.

[0036]

[0030] As used herein, the term "power source" refers to any device or system capable of supplying electrical energy to the ionizer and its ancillary components (such as pump, microfilter unit, RO unit, etc.). The power source provides the necessary electrical potential and current to drive the electrochemical reactions within the ionizer and its ancillary components. This power source may include, but is not limited to, direct current (DC) power supplies, switching mode power supply (SMPS), batteries, photovoltaic cells, fuel cells, or other suitable means of providing a steady and controllable flow of electrical energy. The power source may be designed to deliver a range of voltages and currents as required by the specific design and operational parameters of the ionizer and its ancillary components. Additionally, the power source may incorporate features such as voltage regulation, pulse width modulation (PWM), current limiting, and safety mechanisms to protect the ionizer and its ancillary components during operation.

[0037]

[0031] In an embodiment, the alkalizer unit (200) is a typical alkalizer known to a person skilled in the art. As shown in Figure 3, the alkalizer unit (200) has an inlet (210) for receiving feed water, a first water outlet (220) for discharging alkaline water (AW) having a pH ranging between 8.5 to 10.5, and a second water outlet (230) for discharging acidic water (ACW) having a pH ranging between 3.5 to 5.5.

[0032] In another embodiment, the alkalizer unit (200) comprises of an anode chamber (240) having an anode (242) and a cathode chamber (250) having a cathode (252). The anode chamber (240) and the cathode chamber (250) are separated by an ion exchange membrane. Suitable materials for anode and cathode are known to the person skilled in the art. For instance, the anode (242) and the cathode (252) of the alkalizer unit (200) are made of titanium or stainless-steel material. The anode (242) and the cathode (252) are independently coated with noble metals selected from rhenium, ruthenium, rhodium, palladium, silver, osmium, iridium, platinum, and gold.

[0038]

[0033] In an embodiment, the cathode chamber (250) receives the feed water (PW) from the inlet (210) and generates H+and OH" ions as a result of water splitting reaction. The H+ions are further reduced to form H2 gas. The OH" ions impart alkalinity to the feed water, thereby generating alkaline water (AW) having a pH ranging between 8.5 to 10.5. The alkaline water (AW) generated in the alkalizer unit (200) is discharged from the first water outlet (220) for its downstream application.

[0039]

[0034] In the anode chamber (240), O2 gas and H+are generated. Further, hydronium ions (H3O+) are also generated. The H+ions contribute to the formation of acidic water (ACW) which is discharged at the second water outlet (230). The acidic water (ACW) has a pH ranging between 3.5 to 5.5 and contains dissolved H+ions.

[0040]

[0035] Acidic water contributes to pollution if not disposed of properly. It has the potential to contaminate soil and water sources, which can harm local ecosystems and reduce the quality of natural water supplies. Consumers and businesses are effectively discarding half of the processed water, leading to increased water consumption and higher utility costs. The present invention mitigates the disposal of acidic water generated in the alkalizer unit (200) by treating the same in the neutralizer unit (300) of the ionizer (100).

[0041]

[0036] In an embodiment, the neutralizer unit (300) is coupled with the at least one power source and the alkalizer unit (200). The neutralizer unit (300) has a first inlet (302), a second inlet (304), at least one gas outlet (310) and a water outlet (320), as shown in Figures 2 and 3.

[0042]

[0037] Referring to Figure 4, the neutralizer unit (300) comprises an anode chamber (330) having an anode (332). The anode chamber (330) is in flowable communication with the second water outlet (230) of the alkalizer unit (200), thereby receiving the acidic water at the first inlet (302).

[0043]

[0038] The neutralizer unit (300) also includes a cathode chamber (340) having a cathode (342). The cathode chamber (340) is in flowable communication with the anode chamber (330), thereby receiving the acidic water at the second inlet (304).

[0044]

[0039] As shown in Figure 4, the acidic water discharged from the second water outlet (230) may be received separately in the anode chamber (330) via the first inlet (302) and cathode chamber (340) via the second inlet (304). Accordingly, the cathode chamber (340) is in flowable communication with the second water outlet (230) of the alkalizer unit (200) as well.

[0045]

[0040] In an embodiment, a small amount of acidic water is received at the first inlet (302), for instance 0.2 vol.% to 5.0 vol.% based on the total amount (volumes) of acidic water. The remaining acidic water is received at the second inlet (304).

[0046]

[0041] As shown in Figure 1, the second water outlet (230) of the alkalizer unit (200) is connected to each of the first inlet (302) and the second inlet (304) of the neutralizer unit (300) directly or via suitable connecting means such as a tube or a pipe.

[0047]

[0042] In an embodiment, the anode (332) and the cathode (342) of the neutralizer unit (300) are made of titanium, or stainless-steel material. The anode (332) and the cathode (342) are independently coated with noble metals selected from rhenium, ruthenium, rhodium, palladium, silver, osmium, iridium, platinum, and gold.

[0048]

[0043] The neutralizer unit (300) also includes an ion selective membrane (350) sandwiched between the anode chamber (330) and the cathode chamber (340), thereby allowing flow of the acidic water from the anode chamber (330) to the cathode chamber (340). In an embodiment, the ion selective membrane (350) is a proton exchange membrane (PEM). Suitable materials for making PEM are known to the person skilled in the art.

[0049]

[0044] In an embodiment, the following cell reactions occur in the neutralizer unit (300):

[0050] At anode:

[0051] 2H2O - O2+ 4H++ 4e

[0052] At cathode:

[0053] 4H++ 4e" 2H2

[0054]

[0045] The H+ions generated at the anode chamber (330) crossover to the cathode chamber (340) through the ion selective membrane (350). The H+ions in the cathode chamber (340) are reduced to generated neutralized water (NW), which is discharged at the water outlet (320). The neutralized water has a pH ranging between 6.0 to 7.5.

[0046] The O2 gas generated in the anode chamber is vented out of the neutralizer unit (300). Whereas, the H2 gas at the cathode chamber (340) is dissolved in the neutralized water (hydrogen enriched neutralized water).

[0055]

[0047] Thus, the present invention ionizer (100) ensures that the acidic water (ACW) generated in the alkalizer unit (200) is completely converted to the neutralized water (NW) in the neutralizer unit (300), thereby resulting in zero waste water.

[0056]

[0048] In an embodiment, the neutralized water (NW) from the water outlet (320) is blended with the alkaline water (AW) at the first water outlet (220), as shown in Figures 2 and 3. For this purpose, a pump (400) is installed between the alkalizer unit (200) and the neutralizer unit (300). The pump (400) is capable of passing the neutralized water (NW) from the water outlet (320) of the neutralizer unit (300) to the outlet (220) of the alkalizer unit (200). Suitable pumps for this purpose are known to the person skilled in the art.

[0057]

[0049] The ionizer (100) may also be coupled with the routinely used water filtration systems and / or units. As shown in Figure 2, a microfilter unit (500) is coupled with the ionizer (100), particularly the alkalizer unit (200). In such a scenario, raw water from a source (S) is supplied to an inlet (510) of the microfilter unit (500) to filter contaminants, bacteria, viruses and other suspended particles. The raw water is passed through the microfilter unit (500) and the feed water (PW) is discharged through an outlet (520). The feed water generated at the outlet (520) of the microfilter unit (500) may be directly received at the inlet (210) of the alkalizer unit (200).

[0058]

[0050] Suitable microfilter unit (500) is known to the person skilled in the art. In an embodiment, microfilter unit (500) includes various filtration media, such as activated carbon, ceramic, or membrane filters, each targeting specific types of contaminants such as chlorine, sediment, bacteria, and heavy metals. The filtering process can significantly improve water taste, odor, and safety, ensuring that harmful substances are minimized or eliminated.

[0059]

[0051] In another embodiment, the feed water (PW) generated at the outlet (520) of the microfilter unit (500) is subjected to a reverse osmosis (RO) unit (600). The RO unit (600) is coupled with the microfilter unit (500), particularly the outlet (520), as well as the ionizer (100), particularly the alkalizer unit (200).

[0060]

[0052] As shown in Figure 2, the feed water (PW) generated in the microfilter unit (500) is supplied to an inlet (610) of the RO unit (600). The RO unit (600) discharges purified feed water at a permeate outlet (620) thereof. A reject outlet (630) of the RO unit (600) discharges the impurities and unfiltered feed water. The permeate outlet (620) is coupled with the inlet (210) of the alkalizer unit (200) to receive the feed water (PW).

[0061]

[0053] Suitable RO units (600) are known to the person skilled in the art. In an embodiment, the RO unit (600) includes a high-pressure pump which pressurizes the feed water to a level sufficient to overcome the osmotic pressure and force water molecules through a membrane, typically operating between 50 to 300 psi. The membrane itself is a semi-permeable membrane that selectively allows water molecules to pass while rejecting dissolved salts, organic compounds, and other impurities. The RO unit (600) also includes a pressure vessel or housing that contains the membrane and supports the required pressure. The system may also incorporate flow restrictors or control valves to regulate pressure and flow rates, ensuring optimal operational conditions, all of which are known to the person skilled in the art.

[0062]

[0054] Thus, the present invention ionizer (100) not only results in complete conversion of the acidic water into neutralized water but can also be easily integrated with the existing or routinely used water filtration systems and / or units, such as microfilter unit and RO unit. Further, the ionizer (100) may also be configured, for example, for countertop or table top use but may additionally be configured for other free standing or plumbed installations or other uses as may be envisioned by the person skilled in the art. Further, the ionizer (100) may be configured to treat small volumes of water, for example for home usage. The ionizer (100) is also scalable, for example for high volume commercial applications. The hydrogen enriched neutralized water may be used for medical or non-medical applications.

[0055] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a method for eliminating acidic water in the zero waste water ionizer, as described above. Accordingly, the embodiments pertaining to the zero waste water ionizer (100) are applicable here as well.

[0063]

[0056] In an embodiment, the method comprises:

[0064] (A) supplying the feed water to the inlet of the alkalizer unit, the alkalizer unit generating alkaline water having a pH ranging between 8.5 to 10.5 and acidic water having a pH ranging between 3.5 to 5.5, whereby the alkaline water is discharged from the first water outlet and the acidic water is discharged from the second water outlet,

[0065] (B) supplying the acidic water to the neutralizer unit at the first water inlet and the second water inlet thereof, the neutralizer unit coupled with the alkalizer unit and generating oxygen gas, hydrogen gas, and discharging the neutralized water having pH ranging between 6.0 to 7.5, wherein the neutralizer unit comprises: the anode chamber for generating oxygen gas via the anode side reaction as follows:

[0066] 2H2O O2+ 4H++ 4e , and the cathode chamber for generating hydrogen gas via the cathode side reaction as follows:

[0067] 4H++ 4e" 2H2, and

[0068] (C) blending the neutralized water from the water outlet of the neutralizer unit with the alkaline water at the first water outlet.

[0069]

[0057] In an embodiment, the raw water is pretreated in the microfilter unit and / or the RO unit for generating the feed water, as described above. The microfilter unit and / or the RO unit are coupled with the alkalizer unit.

[0070]

[0058] In another embodiment, the pump is coupled with the alkalizer unit and the neutralizer unit. The pump is capable of passing the neutralized water from the water outlet of the neutralizer unit to the first water outlet of the alkalizer unit.

[0059] Referring generally to the figures described, the ionizer may also include suitable electronic controls and displays (not shown) to facilitate user adjustable optimization of system variables, such as power and water flow pressure, rate and output volume. An automatic water sensor or float switch or other manually activated switch may be included to start the ionizer upon receiving the feed water.

[0071] A sensor may also be included to terminate power to the ionizer upon process completion. A flow valve may be included to controllably open or close dispensing flow through various inlets and outlets in the ionizer. A flow valve may also be used to controllably restrict or temporarily close flow through the cathode and anode chambers, as useful to optimize dwell time for the water to pass between the electrodes. Sensors may also be included for the purpose of closing an outlet and to provide a visual or audible indication, should a glass not be present under the outlet during ionizer activation.

[0072]

[0060] Reference numerals

[0073]

[0061] While the present invention has been described with respect to certain embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modification may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the following claims.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A zero waste water ionizer (100) comprising: at least one power source, an alkalizer unit (200) coupled with the at least one power source, said alkalizer unit (200) having an inlet (210) for receiving feed water, a first water outlet (220) for discharging alkaline water having a pH ranging between 8.5 to 10.5, and a second water outlet (230) for discharging acidic water having a pH ranging between 3.5 to 5.5, and a neutralizer unit (300) coupled with the at least one power source and the alkalizer unit (200), said neutralizer unit (300) having a first inlet (302), a second inlet (304), at least one gas outlet (310) and a water outlet (320), the neutralizer unit (300) comprising: an anode chamber (330) having an anode (332), said anode chamber (330) in flowable communication with the second water outlet (230) of the alkalizer unit (200), thereby receiving the acidic water at the first inlet (302) and undergoing an anode side reaction to generate oxygen gas as follows:2H2O O2+ 4H++ 4e , a cathode chamber (340) having a cathode (342), said cathode chamber (340) in flowable communication with the anode chamber (330), thereby receiving the acidic water at the second inlet (304) and undergoing a cathode side reaction to generate hydrogen gas as follows:4H++ 4e" 2H2, wherein the acidic water is generated in an anode chamber (240) of the alkalizer unit (200), wherein the water outlet (320) discharges neutralized water having a pH ranging between 6.0 to 7.5, and an ion selective membrane (350) sandwiched between the anode chamber (330) and the cathode chamber (340), thereby allowingflow of the acidic water containing hydrogen ion from the anode chamber (330) to the cathode chamber (340).

2. The water ionizer (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the neutralized water from the water outlet (320) is blended with the alkaline water at the first water outlet (220).

3. The water ionizer (100) as claimed in claim 1 or 2 comprising a pump (400) coupled with the alkalizer unit (200), and the neutralizer unit (300), the pump (400) capable of passing the neutralized water from the water outlet (320) of the neutralizer unit (300) to the outlet (220) of the alkalizer unit (200).

4. The water ionizer (100) as claimed in claims 1 to 3 comprising a microfilter unit (500) having an inlet (510) and an outlet (520), the microfilter unit (500) coupled with the alkalizer unit (200), and capable of pretreating raw water, thereby generating the feed water.

5. The water ionizer (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the feed water generated at the outlet (520) of the microfilter unit (500) is received at the inlet (210) of the alkalizer unit (200).

6. The water ionizer (100) as claimed in claims 1 to 5 comprising a reverse osmosis unit (600) coupled with the alkalizer unit (200), said reverse osmosis unit (600) having an inlet (610), a permeate outlet (620), and a reject outlet (630), wherein the permeate outlet (620) is coupled with the inlet (210) of the alkalizer unit (200).

7. The water ionizer (100) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the feed water generated at the permeate outlet (620) of the reverse osmosis unit (600) is received at the inlet (210) of the alkalizer unit (200).

8. The water ionizer (100) as claimed in claims 1 to 7, wherein the acidic water generated in the alkalizer unit (200) is completely converted to the neutralized water in the neutralizer unit (300), thereby resulting in zero waste water.

9. A method for eliminating acidic water in a water ionizer, said method comprising:(A) supplying feed water to an inlet of an alkalizer unit, the alkalizer unit generating the alkaline water having a pH ranging between 8.5 to 10.5 and acidic water having a pH ranging between 3.5 to 5.5, whereby the alkaline water is discharged from a first water outlet and the acidic water is discharged from a second water outlet,(B) supplying the acidic water to a neutralizer unit at a first water inlet and a second water inlet thereof, the neutralizer unit coupled with the alkalizer unit and generating oxygen gas, hydrogen gas, and discharging neutralized water having pH ranging between 6.0 to 7.5, wherein the neutralizer unit comprises: an anode chamber for generating oxygen gas via anode side reaction as follows:2H2O O2+ 4H++ 4e , and a cathode chamber for generating hydrogen gas via a cathode side reaction as follows:4H++ 4e" 2H2, and(C) blending the neutralized water from a water outlet of the neutralizer unit with the alkaline water at the first water outlet.

10. The method as claimed in claim 9, comprising pretreating raw water in a microfilter unit and / or a reverse osmosis unit for generating feed water, wherein the microfilter unit and / or the reverse osmosis unit is coupled with the alkalizer unit.

Citation Information

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