Photoelectrochemical process, container, modulation unit, and system for modulating the temperature of water containing liquid

Abstract

The invention relates to a photoelectrochemical process to modulate the temperature of water containing liquid, comprising the following steps: contacting water containing liquid with a support material (4) containing at least one light sensitive element; activation of the at least one light sensitive element by energy input of electromagnetic radiation by an electromagnetic source, dissociation and reassociation of water by the at least one light sensitive element, wherein the water is dissociating into hydrogen and oxygen and reassociating into water forming bubbles modulating the temperature of the water containing liquid.

Description

[0001] Photoelectrochemical process, container, modulation unit, and system for modulating the temperature of water containing liquid

[0002] D e s c r i p t i o n

[0003] The present invention relates to a photochemical process to modulate the temperature of a water containing liquid, a container for modulating the temperature of a water containing liquid, a modulation unit for modulating the temperature of a water containing liquid and a system for cooling a water containing liquid.

[0004] Various industrial processes that are carried out routinely require cooling in order to be carried out at maximum efficiency. Efficient cooling systems are crucial to maintaining the optimal performance and safety of these processes. However, these systems often suffer from inefficiencies that can lead to significant energy wastage. Additionally, the extensive use of water in these cooling systems can result in substantial water consumption, which is not sustainable in the long term. Cooling is generally carried out through water or water containing liquids, which are passed as close as possible to the reaction chamber of the process in Beils & Vogel

[0005] question without participating in the process, in order that the liquid is able to absorb the temperature. The close proximity required for effective cooling can sometimes pose safety risks, particularly in processes involving hazardous materials. Once the liquid has absorbed the excess temperature, it is made to flow through suitable pipes or ducts to the exterior, to cool it through cooling devices that rapidly nebulize or evaporate it so that the excess temperature is transformed into vapor, which decreases the temperature of the liquid. The maintenance and operational costs of cooling systems made up of various pipes or ducts can also be high, adding to the overall expenses of industrial operations. In addition, the generated vapor is simply discharged into the atmosphere, thus contributing to global warming. This release of vapor not only contributes to environmental pollution but also represents a loss of potentially recoverable energy, highlighting a critical inefficiency in the current cooling methods and systems. This practice raises significant environmental concerns, necessitating the development of more eco-friendly cooling solutions.

[0006] Current methods used simply shift the heat generated by intensive industrial processes, but require liquid in unsustainable quantities, in addition to an exorbitant amount of electricity, to be able to continuously move the liquid.

[0007] It is therefore the object of the present invention to at least partially overcome the aforementioned problems surrounding the use of water in cooling industrial processes. In particular, it is the task of the present invention to provide a process, container, modulation unit and system where the bubbles are passed through the hot water containing liquid, said bubbles being generated in situ by means of dissociation of water within the same hot water containing liquid that is intended on being cooled and provide a cheap and efficient cooling system for industrial processes.

[0008] The forgoing problems are solved by a process according to independent claim 1, a container according to independent claim 6, a modulation unit according to independent claim 12 and a system having the features of independent claim 15. Further features and details of the invention result from the respective subclaims, description and Figures. Features and details described in connection with the photochemical process of the invention also apply, of course, in connection with the system according to the invention and vice versa, so that reference is or can always be made mutually with respect to the disclosure of the individual aspects of the invention. Beils & Vogel

[0009] The photochemical process according to the invention comprises a process capable of modulating the temperature of water containing liquid.

[0010] The term “water containing liquid” is used to refer to any liquid that has a water component within the overall liquid composition. This water containing liquid can comprise up to 5 % water, up to 10 % water, up to 15 % water, up to 20 % water, up to 25 % water, up to 30 % water, up to 35 % water, up to 40 % water, up to 45 % water, up to 50 % water, up to 55 % water, up to 60 % water, up to 65 % water, up to 70 % water, up to 75 % water, up to 80 % water, up to 85 % water, up to 90 % water, up to 95 % water and up to and including 100 % water. The exact percentage of water can be adjusted based on the specific cooling requirements of the process in question. There can be a non-water component present within the water containing liquid, the only requirement of this non-water component being that it is fully soluble and miscable with water so as to allow the dissociation and reassociation of water to cool the water containing liquid as a whole. This non-water component may include various additives, such as antifreeze agents, corrosion inhibitors, or other chemicals or compounds that enhance the properties of the liquid. It is important that the non-water component does not react adversely with the materials of the cooling system or the process being cooled.

[0011] Thus, according to the invention, a photoelectrochemical process to modulate the temperature of water containing liquid, comprising the following steps: contacting water containing liquid with a support material containing at least one light sensitive element; activation of the at least one light sensitive element by energy input of electromagnetic radiation by an electromagnetic source; dissociation and reassociation of water by the at least one light sensitive element, wherein the water is dissociating into hydrogen and oxygen and reassociating into water, forming bubbles modulating the temperature of the water containing liquid.

[0012] Modulating the temperature of water containing liquid can be understood as changing the waters temperature within the water containing liquid, in particular cooling the temperature of water. The water containing liquid can be brought into contact with at least one light sensitive element by placing at least one light sensitive element inside the water containing liquid, or coating a surface of a container or tank with at least one light sensitive element. These light sensitive elements can respond to specific wavelengths of light, enabling precise control over Beils & Vogel

[0013] the cooling process. In some embodiments of the invention the support material can be contained inside a containers or pipe wall.

[0014] The at least one light sensitive element could be a photosensitive or photoreceptive element for example polyphenylene vinylene, polythiophene, cadmium selenide, lead sulfide, indium phosphide, lithium niobate, crystalline silicon, methylammonium lead halide or melanin. These materials are chosen for their specific light absorption properties and their ability to undergo reversible photochemical reactions. Dissociation and reassociation of water can be understood as a process, through various light sensitive elements, particularly photopigments, such as hemoglobin, cytochrome P450, myoglobin and / or melanin. These photopigments can absorb light and facilitate the temporary dissociation of water molecules, followed by their reassocation. The light sensitive elements dissociate and reform the water molecule, unlike other materials that only dissociate water irreversibly. This reversible dissociation process allows for repeated use of the same water molecules, enhancing the efficiency of the cooling system and reducing the need for continuous water replenishment. Melanin analogues refer to synthetic or modified forms of melanin that retain similar photochemical properties. Melanin precursors are compounds that can be converted into melanin, such as L-DOPA or tyrosine, which may offer advantages in terms of stability or ease of incorporation into the support material. Melanin derivatives are modified forms of melanin that may possess enhanced properties for specific applications, such as improved solubility or increased photochemical activity.

[0015] The at least one light sensitive element is incorporated into the at least one support material. The at least one support material for incorporating the at least one light sensitive element could be glass, silicone, indium tin oxide, perovskite materials, concrete or any other water-resistant material. These materials are selected for their durability and ability to maintain structural integrity in various environmental conditions. In some embodiments, the support material comprises various metal oxides, including, but not limited to, CaO, SiC>2, AI2O3, Fe2C>3, MgO, alkali-metal oxides such as K2O and Na2O and SO3. These materials can be mixed in any proportion in order to form the support material. These materials are inert to light and water and therefore the support materials themselves do not react with the water containing liquid. This inertness ensures that the structural and functional properties of the support material are preserved during the cooling process. Incorporating the at least one light sensitive element can mean that they are physically combined without a chemical bonding, with a chemical bonding and / or a biological integration. Physical combination Beils & Vogel

[0016] methods include embedding the light sensitive element into the matrix of the support material, while chemical bonding may involve covalent or ionic bonds between the elements and the support material. In other words, the at least one light sensitive element can be dissolved into the at least one support material, or the light sensitive element can be present as an extra chemical phase within the at least one support material. This ensures that the light sensitive element is only activated by light and thus cannot be inactivated or metabolized by the material of the support material, ensuring that the photoelectrochemical process remains efficient for the longest possible period of time.

[0017] The support material in this context refers to a substrate or matrix into which a photopigment is incorporated. The support material may be a solid, porous, or semi-porous substance capable of supporting the photopigment while allowing contact with the liquid for temperature modulation purposes. It can comprise several different materals. In one embodiment the support material may comprise 50 to 80 %, preferably 60 to 67 % of calcium oxide, 10 to 30 %, preferably 17 to 25 % of silicon dioxide, 1 to 10 %, preferably 3 to 8 %, of aluminium oxide, 0,1 to 10 %, preferably 0,5 to 6 % of iron oxide, 0,1 to 10 %, preferably 0,1 to 4 % magnesium oxide, 0,1 to 2 %, preferably 0,4 to 1 ,3 % of alkalies and 0,5 to 5 %, preferably 1 ,3 to 3 % of sulfur trioxide.

[0018] The at least one light sensitive element can be activated by a source of electromagnetic radiation. Activating a light sensitive element could mean that a process within the element is started, for example color changes, converting light into electricity, converting light into signals or dissociating and reassociating water. These processes enable the efficient modulation and control of the temperature within the water containing liquid. Sources of electromagnetic radiation can be natural sources, e.g. the sun, lightning, terrestrial background radiation, cosmic background radiation, or artificial sources such as incandescent bulbs, fluorescent lambs, LEDs, lasers, radio transmitters, X-ray sources, gamma-ray sources, or a combination of them. The selection of an appropriate source of electromagnetic radiation can be tailored to the specific requirements of the application, considering factors such as intensity, wavelength, and energy efficiency. For instance, using solar energy as a natural source can enhance the sustainability of the system, while artificial sources can provide consistent and controllable activation conditions. In addition, the system can include a light concentrating mechanism, such as lenses or mirrors, to focus the electromagnetic radiation onto the photopigments, enhancing their activation efficiency. Beils & Vogel

[0019] Dissociating and reassociating water and forming bubbles for modulating, particulary cooling, the temperature of water containing liquid can be a continuous process. The dissociation of water refers to the process by which water (H2O) molecules break apart into their constituent ions. The reassociation of water refers to the process by which the constituent ions recombine to form water molecules. These processes can be precisely controlled through the application of electromagnetic radiation, allowing for dynamic adjustments to the cooling rate. Bubbles, for example vapor bubbles, formed during that process modulate the temperature of the water, for example by absorbing the waters heat. This then modulates the temperature of the water containing liquid as a whole. The continuous generation and movement of bubbles can improve the mixing and thermal conductivity of the water containing liquid, leading to more efficient cooling. Furthermore, integrating advanced sensors (e.g. temperature, opical, pressur conductivity, flow, pH and / or gas sensors) can monitor the bubble formation and provide real-time data to optimize the cooling process. To ensure consistent performance, sensors for monitoring light intensity and temperature can be incorporated, providing feedback to adjust the light exposure or flow rate of the water containing liquid. The system could also feature a dynamic mixing apparatus that ensures uniform distribution of the photopigments and optimal exposure to light, preventing hotspots and improving overall cooling efficiency.

[0020] Compared to known processes, the process as claimed by the current invention is characterized by being capable of modulating the temperature without use of electrical energy, as the photochemical activity of light sensitive elements depends not on the application of an electrical current but on the presence of electromagnetic radiation. This innovation significantly reduces the overall energy consumption of the cooling system, making it more environmentally friendly and cost-effective. Therefore, this leads to more precise control of temperature modulation within the water containing liquid and reduces the amount of water containing liquid that is lost to evaporation and other loss leading processes. Furthermore, the system can operate independently of electrical power sources, providing greater flexibility and reliability in various industrial applications. By eliminating the need for electrical energy, the system also reduces the risk of electrical failures and enhances safety in environments where electricity may pose a hazard. Additionally, the use of natural sunlight as a source of electromagnetic radiation can further enhance the sustainability of the process, leveraging renewable energy to maintain the desired temperature. This method can be particularly advantageous in remote locations or in applications where access to a stable electrical grid is limited. Overall, the process enhances Beils & Vogel

[0021] operational efficiency, reduces operational costs, and supports sustainable industrial practices.

[0022] In some embodiments of the photoelectrochemical process, the light sensitive element can comprise at least one photopigment. The photopigment is chosen to allow for passive cooling of the water containing liquid. The photopigments could be rhodopsin, cone opsins, chlorophyll, carotenoids, phycobilins and / or melanin. These photopigments are selected for their high efficiency in capturing and converting light into energy required for the dissociation and reassociation of water molecules. This means that no energy input is given to the water containing liquid itself and the modulation of the temperature of the water containing liquid acts as a self-carrying out process, with no external need for energy outside of the electromagnetic radiation.

[0023] In some embodiments of the photoelectrochemical process, the light sensitive element can comprise melanin, melanin analogues, melanin precursors or melanin derivatives. Melanin, of which several types have been described, has the intrinsic property of absorbing a large part of the electromagnetic spectrum. Melanin and its derivatives have an ability to absorb and neutralize radiation, thus contributing to the invention. As a result, the use of melanin, melanin analogues, melanin precursors or melanin derivatives allows for several advantages, such as occurring naturally and thus lowers the overall costs required for the system. In addition, such compounds are completely bio-degradable and thus do not harm the natural environment. The integration of melanin-based materials can be enhanced with nanotechnology, creating nano-scale melanin particles that increase the surface area for light absorption and improve the efficiency of the cooling process. To further optimize the system, melanin can be combined with other light-absorbing materials, creating hybrid photopigments that maximize the spectrum of absorbed light. The system can also include self-healing polymers that incorporate melanin, allowing the cooling material to repair itself from minor damages and extend its operational life.

[0024] In some embodiments of the photoelectrochemical process, the weight-to-volume-ratio of the at least one light sensitive element and water containing liquid to be modulated can be between 1:1 and 1:25 g / ml, preferably 1 :5 to 1 :15 g / ml, particularly preferably 1 :10 g / ml. Additionally, incorporating a variable ratio mechanism can enable dynamic adjustments during operation, enhancing the system’s adaptability to fluctuating thermal loads. The ratio can be simply amended depending on the initial water containing liquid temperature, the Beils & Vogel

[0025] amount of water containing liquid whose temperature requires modulation and how quickly such modulation should take place. Adjustments to the ratio allow for fine-tuning of the system to match specific cooling demands and operational conditions. The higher the weight-to-volume-ratio, the faster the cooling occurs, and vice versa. A weight-to-volume-ratio between 1 :1 and 1:25 can lead to a faster and more efficient cooling.

[0026] In some embodiments of the photoelectrochemical process, the bubbles formed can be microbubbles, preferably of the diameter 10'6m. While the dissociation and reassociation of water into hydrogen and oxygen leads to the formation of bubbles, such bubbles usually take the form of microbubbles. The creation of microbubbles can be achieved through precise control of the photoelectrochemical reaction conditions, ensuring consistent bubble size and distribution. These microbubbles aid substantially in the temperature modulation of the water containing liquid, as they contain a higher surface area compared to a bubble of larger size. As such, the temperature modulation of the water containing liquid can be modulated quicker than would be possible with a system comprising normal bubbles. In addition, microbubble formation takes place in a constant manner and thus allows for the trapping of a significant amount of heat compared to the infrequent formation of larger bubbles. Advanced materials, such as hydrophobic coatings on the inner surfaces of the container, can prevent coalescence of microbubbles, ensuring they remain effective in heat transfer. Additionally, the integration of acoustic waves or ultrasonic fields can be employed to control and stabilize microbubble formation, further enhancing the cooling process.

[0027] It is also an object of the invention to further provide a container for modulating the temperature of water containing liquid. The container of the invention comprises at least one receptacle for receiving water containing liquid, an opening for filling and / or refilling the recepticle, and at least one support material containing at least one light sensitive element. The container of the invention is particularly suited for carrying out the photochemical process of the invention as previously described. Thus, the container according to the invention has the same advantages as have already been described in detail with respect to the photochemical process for modulating the temperature of water containing liquid.

[0028] The container can vary in size depending on the amount of water containing liquid required to be modulated in terms of temperature, thus there is a wide range of potential industrial processes that can be covered. For example, the system used can be a closed system such as that utilized by nuclear power plants in order to treat the water containing liquid Beils & Vogel

[0029] discharged to the environment, or it can be a more open system such as rivers, lakes, streams and other bodies of water containing liquid. In closed systems, the container can be equipped with pressure relief valves and monitoring systems to ensure safe operation under varying thermal loads. The container can be made of glass in order that the electromagnetic radioation is able to enter the system, while the lid of the system may have holes within it in order that electromagnetic radiation can enter in this way. Alternatively, the container can be constructed from transparent polymers or composite materials that offer higher strength and impact resistance while allowing electromagnetic radiation to pass through. For enhanced durability, the glass or polymer surfaces can be coated with anti-reflective layers to maximize the transmission of electromagnetic radiation into the container. The container design can also incorporate reflective or parabolic surfaces to focus and direct the radiation more efficiently onto the water containing liquid. Additionally, the system may include adjustable baffles or partitions within the container to optimize the flow and mixing of the water containing liquid, ensuring uniform temperature modulation throughout the volume. For applications in open systems, floating containers or modular units can be designed to deploy in large bodies of water containing liquid, allowing for scalable and flexible temperature modulation solutions.

[0030] In some embodiements, the containers wall and / or the pipe can at least partially be made of the support material, containing at least one light sensitive element. In this case, the support material containing at least one light sensitive element would be integrated directly into the container wall or pipe. In some designs, the container may incorporate multi-layered structures, with an outer layer providing structural strength containing the support material and an inner layer optimized for chemical resistance and thermal management. The inclusion of a thermal insulation layer between these two layers can help maintain stable internal temperatures, increasing the overall efficiency of the temperature modulation process.

[0031] In some embodiments of the container, the support material can be non-reactive towards the water containing liquid. This allows a particularly favorable and high durability of the system to be achieved. The use of non-reactive support materials, such as stainless steel, certain ceramics, or advanced polymers, ensures that the integrity of the container is maintained over prolonged periods of use, even in harsh conditions. Additionally, these materials can resist corrosion, scaling, and fouling, which are common issues in systems involving water and other water containing liquids. Beils & Vogel

[0032] In some embodiments of the container, the support material can be imbued with at least one light sensitive element. The support material should not react with the light sensitive element, but instead should simply allow water containing liquid to come into contact with the light sensitive element in order that the water within the water containing liquid is dissociated and reassociated, forming micorbubbles capable of modulating the overall temperature of the water containing liquid. The support material can be composed of a porous structure, maximizing the surface area available for contact between the water containing liquid and the light sensitive elements. This porous set-up ensures efficient interaction between the water containing liquid and light sensitive elements and enhances the rate of dissociation and reassociation of water molecules. In addition, the support material should not consume any energy and should thus remain only a passive support material for the light sensitive element. This allows an overall increase in the efficiency of the system as only one component can cause the water within the water containing liquid to dissaociate and reassociate, with this component not competing with the support material in terms of energy resources.

[0033] In some emboidments of the container, the container for modulating the temperature of water containing liquid can further comprise a lid for reversibly closing the opening of the receptacle, a tap for draining the water containing liquid and at least one transparent or translucent portion allowing electromagnetic radiation to reach the support material containing at least one light sensitive element. The lid can be equipped with a sealing mechanism to prevent contamination and evaporation of the water containing liquid during the process. This allows for the process to be carried out multiple times on different water containing liquids that can be refilled within the container, thus allowing a flow of water containing liquid whose temperature can be modulated before being used for an additional purpose. Additionally, the lid may feature built-in ports for sampling or injecting additives without the need to fully open the container, ensuring continuous operation. The tap for draining the water containing liquid can be composed of a valve system to control the flow rate precisely, enabling efficient draining and refilling cycles.

[0034] In some embodiments of the container, the light sensitive element which can be incorporated into the support material can be located at the bottom of the tank. By having the support material at the bottom of the tank, it is possible that the microbubbles formed through the dissociation and reassociation of water form at the bottom of the tank near the support Beils & Vogel

[0035] material, thus the bubbles journey upwards from the bottom to the top of the tank, moving through the water containing liquid whose temperature should be modulated. This allows the system to trap a significant amount of heat and thus have more effective temperature modulation, as the microbubbles spend the largest possible amount of time moving within the water containing liquid. Additionally, the container can feature an array of light sources positioned to maximize the activation of the light sensitive elements at the bottom of the tank. These light sources can be controlled to adjust the intensity and wavelength of the electromagnetic radiation based on real-time temperature data. Integrating a circulation pump can maintain a consistent flow of water containing liquid over the support material, ensuring that the entire volume of liquid is effectively cooled.

[0036] In some embodiments of the container, the support material which can comprise the light sensitive element can be cylindrical shaped and / or cubic shaped and / or ring-shaped. Each shape as described can have several advantages. For example, in embodiments where the support material is cylindrically shaped, a large amount of surface area can be present, which allows for the production of high levels of microbubbles. Even if stacked in close proximity, cylindrical shaped support materials will continue to have a large surface area for reaction. In embodiments where the support material is cubic shaped, the support materials can be easily stacked and transported to different containers for reaction, thus allowing the system to be easily adapted to the different circumstances of operation. In embodiments where the support material is ring-shaped, this allows for the support materials to be effectively stacked at the bottom of the tank against the wall, thus allowing for increased production of bubbles and thus more effective temperature modulation of the water containing liquid.

[0037] In some embodiments of the container, the receptacle can have a capacity of between 10 liters and 20,000 liters, preferably between 5,000 liters and 15,000 liters, particularly preferably 12,000 liters. Therefore, the receptacle can be utilized in many different situations depending on the amount of water containing liquid whose temperature is required to be modulated.

[0038] According to the invention, a modulation unit for modulating a temperature of water containing liquid comprises at least two containers as described, wherein the containers are interconnected via at least one pipe. In some embodiments, the containers can be connected from the tap of one container to the opening in another container. As such, the containers Beils & Vogel

[0039] can be arranged in any configuration that allows such an interconnection to be present. This interconnection allows for the continuous flow of water containing liquid from one container to another and thus means that temperature modulation can take place in a sequential manner, with warm water containing liquid entering the container only to be cooled by the system of the current invention and thus exiting the container cooler, all without the need to use electrical energy. In some embodiments, the pipes interconnecting the containers can be equipped with valves and flow control mechanisms to regulate the flow rate and ensure efficient temperature modulation throughout the system. These valves can be automated, allowing for precise control based on real-time temperature data, further optimizing the cooling process. The containers can be arranged in various configurations such as in series, in parallel, or in a combination of both, depending on the specific cooling requirements and spatial constraints of the application. For instance, a series configuration allows for a step-wise temperature reduction, with each container progressively lowering the temperature of the water containing liquid. In a parallel configuration, multiple containers can simultaneously cool separate streams of water containing liquid, increasing the overall throughput of the system.

[0040] In some embodiments of the modulation unit, the containers can be arranged at different heights for allowing water containing liquid to flow via gravity. This allows the water containing liquid to flow from container to container under the force of gravity and without any energy being expelled in the movement of the water containing liquid. In some embodiments of the modulation unit, pumps can be installed in between the containers for transporting the water containing liquid. In this case, containers can be set up in configuration where gravity is not needed to move the water containing liquid, and thus containers can be set up over longer distances on relatively flat ground. The pumps can be solar pumps or hydroelectrical pumps. With such pumps, no additional electrical energy is required in order to transport the water containing liquid from container to container, thus saving on the energy costs of the process. In embodiments where the pump is a hydroelectrical pump, such a pump requires only water containing liquid, thus giving the option of recycling the water containing liquid whose temperature modulation is being carried out in order to modulate the temperature of additional water containing liquid. In scenarios where the containers are arranged at different heights, check valves can be installed to prevent backflow and ensure unidirectional flow of the water containing liquid. These check valves can also help maintain system integrity and prevent potential contamination of the water containing liquid. Beils & Vogel

[0041] According to an embodiment of the invention, there is provided a system for cooling water containing liquid, the system comprising an industrial unit generating heated water containing liquid, a modulation unit according to the previously described examples connected to the industrial unit, where the modulation unit receives heated water containing liquid, a source of electromagnetic radiation and a means for circulating the water containing liquid through the modulation unit and back to the industrial unit. Therefore, industrial processes that require cooling can be cooled with water containing liquid that can have its temperature modulated according to the claimed system, allowing the cooled water containing liquid to be recycled and used for further cooling of the industrial process. This leads to a reduction in the amount of water containing liquid that is used, as well as reducing the energy requirements of the process. In some embodiments, the industrial process can be energy generation carried out by a nuclear power plant.

[0042] It is understood herein that individual, several or all of the obligatory and / or optional steps of the process according to the invention may be carried out in the proposed order, but also in a manner deviating from the proposed order. In this respect, individual, several or all obligatory and / or optional steps of the process according to the invention may in particular be carried out repeatedly, for example cyclically repeatedly.

[0043] It is further understood that individual, several or all of the obligatory and optional steps of the method according to the invention may also be objectively executed at least partially automatically or automated, in particular implemented by a computer.

[0044] Further advantages, features and details of the invention will be apparent from the following description, in which embodiments of the invention are described in detail with reference to the drawings. The features mentioned in the claims and in the description may be essential to the invention individually or in any combination.

[0045] It shows:

[0046] Fig. 1 a photoelectrochemical process according to an embodiement of the invention Fig. 2 a container for modulating the temperature of water containing liquid according to an embodiment of the invention

[0047] Fig. 3 different shapes of support materials according to an embodiment of the invention Beils & Vogel

[0048] Fig. 4 a modulation unit comprising a series of containers according to an embodiment of the invention

[0049] Fig. 5 a modulation unit comprosong a series of containers with a pump according to an embodiment of the invention

[0050] Fig. 6 a system according to an embodiment of the invention

[0051] Fig. 1 shows three steps of a process for modulating the temperature of water containing liquid. Step 1 comprises the contacting of water containing liquid with a support material 4 containing at least one light sensitive element. For example, a support material 4, e.g. concrete, containing at least one light sensitive element, e.g. melanin, is brought into contact with water containing liquid. The contacting could happen by placing the at least one support material 4 inside a container 10 filled with water containing liquid or by coating the container 10 walls with the support material 4. By coating the container 10 wall with the support material 4, a large surface area is reached, allowing a faster modulation of the temperature. Modulating the temperature could mean that the temperature is lowered or increased. The light sensitive element could comprise at least one photopigment. For example, the at least one light sensitive element could comprise melanin, its analogues, precursors or derivatives thereof. The weight-to-volume-ratio can be changed depending on the requirements of the process. The weight-to-volume-ratio of the at least one light sensitive element and water containing liqud to be modulated could be between 1 :1 and 1 :25 g / ml, preferably 1 :5 to 1 :15 g / ml, particularly preferably 1:10 g / ml.

[0052] Step 2 of Fig. 1 describes the activation of the at least one light sensitive element by energy input of electromagnetic radiation by an electromagnetic source. The radiation source can be artificial or natural. The advantage of a natural electromagnetic radiation source are the low costs, wheres the advantage of an artificial electromagnetic radiation source is the high availability.

[0053] Step 3 of Fig. 1 comprises the activation of the at least one light sensitive element by energy input of electromagnetic radiation by an electromagnetic source, wherein the water within the water containing liquid is dissociating into hydrogen and oxygen and reassociating into water, forming bubbles modulating the temperature of the water containing liquid. The dissociation of water refers to the process by which water (H2O) molecules break apart into their constituent ions. The reassociation of water refers to the process by which the constituent ions recombine to form water molecules. In one embodiment the at least one light Beils & Vogel

[0054] sensitive element can be incorporated into the support material 4. The bubbles formed could be microbubbles, preferably of the diameter 10'6m. Bubbles, for example vapor bubbles, formed during that process modulate the temperature of the water containing liquid, for example by absorbing the heat from the water containing liquid.

[0055] Fig. 2 shows an embodiment of a container 10 for modulating a temperature of water containing liqud accoding to the invention. The container 10 of Fig. 2 comprises a receptacle 1 for receiving the water containing liquid, an opening 2 for filling and / or refilling the receptacle 1 and at least one support material 4 containing at least one light sensitive element. In some embodiments of the container 10, the container 10 can comprise a lid 3 for reversibly closing the opening 2 of the container 10, a pipe 6 for transporting the water from a source into the container 10 via the opening 2 and a tap 5, for draining the water. The container 10 can have different shapes; in particular, the shape and size of the container 10 must be adapted to the process. The lid 3 of the container 10 can be resealable to allow water to enter and to open it for servicing. The pipe 6 can be designed through the opening 2 as shown in Fig. 2. However, the pipe 6 can also lead into the container 10 through another opening 2 on the side of the container 10. In particular, several pipes 6 can also be provided, for example to fill the container 10 particularly quickly. The support material 4 containing the light sensitive element can be placed on the bottom of the container 10. However, it can also be attached to the walls or in the middle of the container 10, for example by means of a structure. Furthermore, it may be possible to coat the inside of the container 10 at least partially with the support material 4. This allows the largest possible surface area to be achieved. In particular, the tap 5 can be located in the lower area, near the bottom of the container 10, so that the water, especially cooled water, can be drained. Several taps 5 can also be provided in order to distribute the water to different areas, for example.

[0056] Fig. 3 displays three different shapes of the support material 4. The support material 4 on the left-hand side is cylindrical shaped. The cylinder-shaped design can create a more uniform distribution of light, as the inner and outer surfaces of the rings can capture electromagnetic radiation from multiple angles. This would also facilitate the creation of a continuous flow path for the water containing liquid, enhancing the interaction between the liquid and the light sensitive elements. The support material 4 as seen on the right-hand side of Fig. 3 is cubic shaped. The cubic shape ensures stable and compact stacking, maximizing the use of available space within the tank and simplifying logistics during transport and installation. The support material 4 in the middle of Fig. 3 is ring shaped. Beils & Vogel

[0057] Fig. 4 displays a modulation unit 20 comprising three containers 10, wherein the containers 10 are interconnected via three pipes 6. The water containing liquid to be cooled flows into the first container 10 where the temperature is cooled for the first time. In a broad sense, for example, the temperature of the water containing liquid to be cooled can be between 5 and 100 °C. In this case the goal of the modulation unit 20 could be to reduce the temperature to a value between 0 and 95 °C. In a more specific example, the water containing liquid may have a temperature of about 80 °C before entering the first container 10 and the goal is to achieve a temperature of 20 °C. The temperature in each container 10 could be cooled evenly by 20 °C. However, it could also be possible for the containers 10 to have different cooling capacities. Fig. 4 shows a case in which the water containing liquid flows through the containers 10 by itself due to gravity.

[0058] Fig. 5 displays a modulation unit 20 comprising two containers 10, wherein the containers 10 are interconnected via a pipe 6 and the water containing liquid flows by help of a pump 11. In cases where it is not possible to arrange the containers 10 at different heights, the water containing liquid can be pumped between the containers 10.

[0059] Fig. 6 shows a system 30 for cooling water containing liquid, chracterized in that the system 30 comprises an industrial unit 31 (e.g. a nuclear plant) generating heated water containing liquid; a modulation unit 20 connected to the industrial unit 31 via pipes, wherein the modulation unit 20 receives heated water containing liquid; a source 32 of electromagnetic radiation; and means 33 for circulating the water containing liquid through the modulation unit 20 and back to the industrial unit 31.

[0060] The above explanation of the embodiments describes the present invention exclusively in the context of examples. Of course, individual features of the embodiments can be freely combined with each other, provided that this makes technical sense, without leaving the scope of the present invention. Beils & Vogel

[0061] Referen ce Si g ns

[0062] 1 receptacle

[0063] 2 opening

[0064] 3 lid

[0065] 4 support material

[0066] 5 tap

[0067] 6 Pipe

[0068] 10 container

[0069] 11 pump

[0070] 20 modulation unit

[0071] 30 system

[0072] 31 industrial unit

[0073] 32 source of electromagnetic radiation

[0074] 33 means for circulating

[0075] S1 step 1

[0076] S2 step 2

[0077] S3 step 3

Claims

Beils & VogelC l a i m s1. A photoelectrochemical process to modulate the temperature of water containing liquid, comprising the following steps:- (S1) contacting water containing liquid with a support material (4) containing at least one light sensitive element- (S2) activation of the at least one light sensitive element by energy input of electromagnetic radiation by an electromagnetic source,- (S3) dissociation and reassociation of water by the at least one light sensitive element,wherein the water is dissociating into hydrogen and oxygen and reassociating into water forming bubbles modulating the temperature of the water containing liquid.

2. The photoelectrochemical process according to claim 1 ,wherein the at least one light sensitive element comprises at least one photopigment.

3. The photoelectrochemical process according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one light sensitive element comprises melanin, its analogues, precursors or derivatives thereof.

4. The photoelectrochemical process according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the weight-to-volume-ratio of the at least one light sensitive element and water containing liquid to be modulated is between 1 :1 and 1 :25 g / ml, preferably 1 :5 to 1:15 g / ml, particularly preferably 1 :10 g / ml.

5. The photoelectrochemical process according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the bubbles formed are microbubbles, preferably of a diameter 10'6m.

6. A container (10) for modulating a temperature of water containing liquid, particularly for carrying out a process according to any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising:- at least one receptacle (1) for receiving water containing liquid,- an opening (2) for filling and / or refilling the receptacle (1),- at least one support material (4) containing at least one light sensitive element.Beils & Vogel7. The container (10) for modulating a temperature of water containing liquid according to claim 6,wherein the support material (4) is non-reactive towards the water containing liquid, wherein the support material (4) is imbued with at least one light sensitive element.

8. The container (10) for modulating a temperature of water containing liquid according to claim 6 or 7,further comprising:- a lid (3), for reversibly closing the opening of the receptacle (1), and / or- a tap (5), for draining the water, and / or- at least one transparent or translucent portion allowing electromagnetic radiation to reach the support material (4) containing at least one light sensitive element.

9. The container (10) for modulating a temperature of water containing liquid according to any one of claims 6 to 8,wherein the support material (4) containing the light sensitive element is located at the bottom of the container.

10. The container (10) for modulating a temperature of water containing liquid according to claims 6 to 9,wherein the at least one support material (4) comprising at least one light sensitive element is cylindrical shaped and / or cubic shaped and / or ring-shaped.

11. The container (10) for modulating a temperature of water containing liquid according to claims 6 to 10,wherein the receptacle has a capacity of 10 to 20.000 liters, preferably 5.000 to 15.000 liters, particulary preferred of 12.000 liters.

12. A modulation unit (20) for modulating a temperature of water containing liquid comprising at least two containers (10) according to any one of the claims 6 to 10,wherein the containers (10) are interconnected via at least one pipe (6).

13. The modulation unit (20) for modulating a temperature of water containing liquid according to claim 12,Beils & Vogelwherein the containers (10) are arranged at different heights for allowing water containing liquid to flow via gravity from one container (10) to another container (10).

14. The modulation unit (20) for modulating a temperature of water containing liquid according to claim 11 or 12,wherein pumps (11) are installed in between the containers (10) for transporting the water containing liquid.

15. A system (30) for cooling water containing liquid, chracterized in that the system comprises- an industrial unit (31) generating heated water containing liquid;- a modulation unit (20) according to any one of the claims 11 to 13 connected to the industrial unit (31), wherein the modulation unit (20) receives heated water containing liquid;- a source (32) of electromagnetic radiation; and- means (33) for circulating the water containing liquid through the modulation unit and back to the industrial unit.

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