Desalination systems and methods

Abstract

A system for gravity-driven seawater intake and desalination includes a first turbine powered by elevated seawater and configured to drive rollers that rotate foam-sponge roller belts carrying foam-sponge rollers configured to absorb seawater; one or more fans configured to fan the seawater in the foam-sponge rollers to generate at least desalinated water vapor; a second turbine configured to be driven by the elevated seawater to generate electricity to power the one or more fans; and condensation collector tubes configured to condense the desalinated water vapor into desalinated water.

Description

Attorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01DESALINATION SYSTEMS AND METHODSTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure applies to eco-friendly solutions for offsetting climate change and solving problems related to Earth’ s resources, such as in the fields of carbon dioxide capture and desalination (e.g., to produce desalinated or fresh water).BACKGROUND

[0002] Desalination of seawater is currently expensive and not eco-friendly. Current methods of handling and disposing of resulting salt-brine by-products are typically tedious and costly. Simply dumping salt-brine in the ocean, whether diluted or not, is not a sustainable solution. Desalination plants in current production are typically heavily reliant on electrical power, generally using power obtained directly from the consumer power grid or from a limited-time backup generator (e.g., which may have a limited supply of fossil fuel before the facility becomes inoperative). Existing direct air capture (DAC) and other carbon-collection efforts are in need of viable ways to convert and sequester collected carbon through ecologically-friendly means while keeping the overall costs of carbon-collection low.SUMMARY

[0003] The present disclosure describes systems and techniques that can be used for carbon dioxide capture and the desalination of seawater. Use of the systems and techniques can produce cleaner air and fresh (or desalinated) water, and further result in the production of algae, salt, and calcium carbonate which can be sold for profit. The systems and techniques can be used in their entirely, for example, at mega facilities that perform all such operations. In other instances, subsets of the systems and techniques can be used alone or in combination to meet local needs (e.g., desalination to create fresh or desalinated water) or to process waste products (e.g., brine water) from industry. As such, the use of the systems and techniques can provide a less-expensive (compared to other systems) and ecologically-friendly waterdesalination and / or carbon-capture facility featuring collected-carbon conversion and capture.

[0004] In an example implementation, a system for gravity-driven seawater intake and desalination includes a first turbine powered by elevated seawater and configured to drive rollers that rotate foam-sponge roller belts carrying foam-sponge rollers configured to absorb seawater; one or more fans configured to fan the seawater in the foam-sponge rollers to generate at least desalinated water vapor; a second turbine configured to be driven by theAttorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01 elevated seawater to generate electricity to power the one or more fans; and condensation collector tubes configured to condense the desalinated water vapor into desalinated water.

[0005] An aspect combinable with the example implementation includes at least one pump configured to pump seawater from a seawater source to an elevation.

[0006] In another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects, the condensation collector tubes include rows of vertical hexagon-shaped collection tubes opened at tops and bottoms.

[0007] In another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects, the first turbine and the second turbine are in series or in parallel.

[0008] Another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects includes at least one centrifugal pump for pumping the desalinated water to another location.

[0009] Another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects includes at least one seawater return for returning the seawater to at least one seawater source.

[0010] In another example implementation, a system for wind-propelled seawater intake and evaporation includes at least one first turbine powered by at least one windmill and configured to drive roller belts that rotate foam-sponge rollers configured to absorb seawater; one or more fans configured to fan the seawater in the foam-sponge rollers to generate at least desalinated water vapor; at least one bottom roller configured to rotate the foam-sponge rollers and cause the foam-sponge rollers to pick up seawater and raise the seawater to an elevation above the one or more fans; and condensation collector tubes configured to condense the desalinated water vapor into desalinated water.

[0011] In an aspect combinable with the example implementation, the one or more fans is driven by one or more of the first turbine, stored power generated by the first turbine, or at least one second turbine.

[0012] Another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects includes at least one facility enclosure enclosing at least the one or more fans and the condensation collector tubes.

[0013] In another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects, the at least one facility enclosure is configured to protect at least the one or more fans and the condensation collector tubes from forces external to the at least one facility enclosure.

[0014] In another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects, the forces include at least humidity, wind, and temperature.

[0015] In another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects, the at least one facility enclosure includes at least a geodesic dome structure.Attorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01

[0016] Another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects includes at least one collector pan configured to collect the desalinated water that falls from the condensation collector tubes.

[0017] Another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects includes at least one centrifugal pump for pumping the desalinated water from the collector pan to at least one other location.

[0018] Another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects includes at least one pipe connected to the collector pan and configured to disperse the desalinated water to at least one other location.

[0019] In another example implementation, a system for seawater intake, evaporation, and collection-at-height includes at least one first turbine powered by falling seawater and configured to drive rollers that rotate foam-sponge roller belts carrying foam-sponge rollers configured to absorb some of the falling seawater; one or more fans configured to fan seawater in the foam-sponge rollers to generate at least desalinated water vapor; condensation collector tubes configured to condense the desalinated water vapor into desalinated water; and at least one collector pan configured to collect the desalinated water that falls from the condensation collector tubes.

[0020] In an aspect combinable with the example implementation, the one or more fans is driven by one or more of the first turbine, stored power generated by the first turbine, or at least one second turbine.

[0021] Another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects includes at least one facility enclosure enclosing at least the one or more fans and the condensation collector tubes.

[0022] In another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects, the at least one facility enclosure is configured to protect at least the one or more fans and the condensation collector tubes from forces external to the at least one facility enclosure.

[0023] In another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects, the forces include at least humidity, temperature, and wind.

[0024] In another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects, the at least one facility enclosure includes at least a geodesic dome structure.

[0025] Another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects includes at least one pipe connected to the collector pan and configured to disperse, using at least gravity, the desalinated water to at least one other location.Attorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01

[0026] In another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects, the condensation collector tubes are arranged in at least one substantially interlocking hexagon pattern.

[0027] Another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects includes at least one percussive vibrator configured to percussively vibrate the condensation collector tubes and accelerate a falling rate of the desalinated water.

[0028] In another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects, the foam-sponge rollers include at least one rotating group of sponge belt fan units.

[0029] In another example implementation, a brine management system for processing seawater includes an enclosed facility including at least one geodesic dome shape; one or more fans that is positioned inside the enclosed facility and arranged at least alongside regions and a top region of the enclosed facility and is configured to raise the seawater and generate, through evaporation of the seawater, desalinated water vapor and salt dust; one or more solar-powered heaters configured to heat the seawater to increase evaporation rates of the seawater below the top region; one or more condensation collector tubes configured to condense the desalinated water vapor into desalinated water; at least one salt vacuum positioned inside a subfloor of the enclosed facility and configured to vacuum the salt dust through holes of the subfloor; and at least one collector pan configured to collect the desalinated water that falls from the condensation collector tubes.

[0030] In an aspect combinable with the example implementation, the condensation collector tubes include micro-etched edges configured to reduce water adhesion of and increase droplet creation from the desalinated water vapor.

[0031] Another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects includes at least one percussive vibrator configured to percussively vibrate the condensation collector tubes and accelerate a falling rate of the desalinated water.

[0032] Another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects includes at least one pump configured to pump the seawater to the solar-powered heaters.

[0033] Another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects includes an air exhaust system positioned in the subfloor and configured to remove excess air from the brine management system; and a water removal system configured to remove the desalinated water from the brine management system.

[0034] In another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects, tunable variables of the brine management system configured to control angles, velocities, andAttorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01 temperature of a micron-sized seawater-mister / fan combination include at least nozzle micron size, water pressure, fan wind speed, fan angle, and vacuum force and size.

[0035] In another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects, the condensation collector tubes, misters, and the one or more fans is arranged in a stadium style arrangement.

[0036] In another example implementation, a brine management and carbon collection system includes an enclosed facility including a geodesic dome shape and configured to process brine and carbon in seawater; one or more fans that is positioned inside the enclosed facility and arranged at least alongside regions and a top region of the enclosed facility and is configured to raise the seawater and generate, through evaporation of the seawater, calcium carbonate, desalinated water vapor, and salt dust; condensation collector tubes configured to condense the desalinated water vapor into desalinated water; calcium carbonate vacuums configured to vacuum the calcium carbonate; at least one salt vacuums configured to vacuum the salt dust; and at least one collector pan configured to collect the desalinated water that falls from the condensation collector tubes.

[0037] An aspect combinable with the example implementation includes solar-powered heaters configured to heat the seawater to increase evaporation rates of the seawater below the top region.

[0038] Another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects includes at least one percussive vibrator configured to percussively vibrate the condensation collector tubes and accelerate a falling rate of the desalinated water.

[0039] Another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects includes Fresnel lenses arranged within triangles formed in hexagonal units of the enclosed facility.

[0040] In another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects, the Fresnel lenses are configured to heat seawater in black tubing underneath the Fresnel lenses.

[0041] In another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects, a quantity and a placement of the hexagonal units are based on available sunlight.

[0042] In another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects, some of the hexagonal units are enabled or disabled depending on season-based sunlight availability.

[0043] In another example implementation, a system for carbon direct air capture using algae includes an enclosed facility including a geodesic dome shape and configured to process seawater and atmospheric air that includes carbon dioxide. The enclosed facility includesAttorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01 components configured to control at least one of light, temperature, humidity, or seawater intake. The system includes seawater mister fans configured to fan falling seawater in to generate at least desalinated water vapor; and an algae farm and carbon dioxide capture unit hanging inside the enclosed facility and configured to grow algae and capture carbon from seawater vapor and air received in an air intake. The algae farm includes vertical hexagonshaped collection tubes that are open at tops and bottoms. The system includes one or more solar-powered heaters configured to heat the seawater; one or more clear polyvinyl chloride (PVC) roof panels configured to allow sunlight into the enclosed facility; at least one collector pan configured to collect the algae that falls from the algae farm and carbon dioxide capture unit; and at least one seawater drain configured to drain seawater from the enclosed facility.

[0044] An aspect combinable with the example implementation includes mirrors and prisms configured to reflect light into bottom openings of the vertical hexagon-shaped collection tubes.

[0045] In another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects, the solar-powered heaters includes magnifying lens and aerated concrete.

[0046] Another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects includes at least one percussive vibrator configured to percussively vibrate the vertical hexagon-shaped collection tubes and accelerate a falling rate of the algae.

[0047] In another example implementation, a heat-recovery evaporation apparatus includes a thermally conductive evaporation surface configured as a funnel-shaped griddle; a plurality of heat-transfer conduits disposed beneath and in thermal contact with the evaporation surface; a circulation loop configured to convey a heated working fluid selected from the group consisting of air, oil, water, molten salt, or mixtures thereof through the conduits; and an exhaust-gas heat exchanger configured to transfer heat from an industrial process to the working fluid. The heat from the working fluid maintains the evaporation surface at a temperature sufficient to evaporate saline feed introduced onto the surface.

[0048] An aspect combinable with the example implementation includes a convection chamber surrounding the evaporation surface and a condensing hood configured to collect vapor condensed from the chamber.

[0049] In another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects, the industrial process includes a rotary kiln or lime furnace exhaust.

[0050] In another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects, the circulation loop includes a pump, buffer tank, and bypass manifold to regulate flow and temperature.Attorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01

[0051] In another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects, solid salt is collected at a lower outlet of the funnel.

[0052] In another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects, the working fluid includes a thermal oil circulated at a temperature between about 350°F and 550°F.

[0053] In another example implementation, a method of evaporating saline water using industrial waste heat includes recovering heat from an exhaust-gas stream into a circulating working fluid; conveying the heated fluid through conduits in thermal contact with a funnel- shaped griddle; feeding saline water onto the griddle so that it flows toward a central outlet while evaporating; and collecting condensed vapor from above the griddle.

[0054] In an aspect combinable with the example implementation, the griddle is positioned within a convection chamber that enhances vapor flow toward a condenser.

[0055] In another example implementation, a system for carbon dioxide capture using desalination includes a first enclosed facility including a geodesic dome shape and configured to process brine and carbon in seawater. The first enclosed facility includes one or more fans positioned inside the first enclosed facility and arranged at least alongside regions and a top region of the first enclosed facility. The one or more fans is configured to raise the seawater and generate, through evaporation of the seawater, calcium carbonate, desalinated water vapor, and salt dust. The first enclosed facility includes condensation collector tubes configured to condense the desalinated water vapor into desalinated water; one or more calcium carbonate vacuums configured to vacuum the calcium carbonate; one or more salt vacuums configured to vacuum the salt dust; and at least one collector pan configured to collect the desalinated water that falls from the condensation collector tubes. The system includes a second enclosed facility including a geodesic dome shape and configured to process seawater and carbon- containing air. The second enclosed facility includes components configured to control light, temperature, humidity, and seawater intake and further includes seawater mister fans configured to fan falling seawater in to generate at least desalinated water vapor; an algae farm and carbon dioxide capture unit hanging inside the second enclosed facility and configured to grow algae and capture carbon from seawater vapor and air received in an air intake. The algae farm includes vertical hexagon-shaped collection tubes that are open at tops and bottoms; one or more solar-powered heaters configured to heat the seawater; clear PVC roof panels configured to allow sunlight into the second enclosed facility; at least one collector pan configured to collect the algae that falls from the algae farm and carbon dioxide capture unit; and at least one seawater drain configured to drain seawater from the second enclosed facility.Attorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01

[0056] In another example implementation, a system for using wind power to power desalination of sea / brackish water includes a first turbine powered by wind energy and configured to drive rollers that rotate foam-sponge roller belts carrying foam-sponge rollers configured to absorb seawater; one or more solar-powered heaters configured to heat the seawater; one or more fans configured to fan the seawater in the foam-sponge rollers to generate at least desalinated water vapor; and condensation collector tubes configured to condense the desalinated water vapor into desalinated water.

[0057] In another example implementation, a photobioreactor system includes a vertical array of cultivation tubes, with each cultivation tube including a volume configured to enclose a photosynthetic biofilm; a gantry system positioned above the vertical array of cultivation tubes, the gantry system including at least one a weighted plunger configured to move vertically through respective open inlets of the cultivation tubes and into the respective volumes of the cultivation tubes and to move horizontally above the respective open inlets of the cultivation tubes; a mesh screen conveyor belt positioned below respective open outlets of the cultivation tubes and configured to receive biomass grown from the photosynthetic biofilm and ejected from at least one volume by the at least one plunger; and a collection basin positioned under the mesh screen conveyor belt and configured to collect liquid extracted from the biomass through the mesh screen conveyor belt.

[0058] In an aspect combinable with the example implementation, the liquid includes water.

[0059] In another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects, the at least one plunger is shaped to conform to an internal cross-section of the respective volumes of the cultivation tubes.

[0060] In another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects, each of the cultivation tubes in the vertical array of cultivation tubes includes a clear cultivation tube having a hexagonal internal cross-section.

[0061] Another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects includes an illumination system that includes a plurality of light sources.

[0062] In another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects, each of the plurality of light sources includes a vertical LED light bar.

[0063] In another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects, each of the plurality of light sources is positioned at an interstitial vertex of a plurality of interstitial vertices of the clear cultivation tube.Attomey Docket No. : 58927-0002W01

[0064] In another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects, the interstitial vertex is formed at an intersection of two sides of a first clear cultivation tube in the vertical array of cultivation tubes; and one side of a second clear cultivation tube in the vertical array of cultivation tubes.

[0065] Another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects includes a gas exchange system that includes at least one air intake fan positioned to circulate ambient air from an ambient environment into an enclosure that houses the a vertical array of cultivation tubes; and at least one air exhaust fan positioned to circulate the ambient air from the enclosure to the ambient environment at a flow rate sufficient to generate a negative pressure in the enclosure and below the respective open inlets of the cultivation tubes.

[0066] The photobioreactor system of claim 55, including a water misting system configured to generate a nutrient water mist into the respective volumes of the cultivation tubes to enhance carbon dioxide contact with the photosynthetic biofilm.

[0067] In another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects, the circulation of ambient air at least partially causes the nutrient water mist to flow into the respective volumes of the cultivation tubes.

[0068] Another aspect combinable with one, some, or all of the previous aspects includes a closed-loop water management system that includes a collection pan positioned beneath the mesh screen conveyor belt and configured to capture a liquid growth medium passed through the mesh screen conveyor belt; at least one wastewater filter in fluid communication with the collection pan and configured to remove particulates from the captured liquid growth medium to produce filtered liquid; and at least one pump and filtration unit configured to recirculate the filtered liquid back to the water misting system.

[0069] The subject matter and solutions described in this specification can be implemented in particular implementations, so as to realize one or more of the following advantages. Solutions and techniques described in the present disclosure can reduce costs by maximizing output and efficiency, e.g., by combining hexagon collector grids with percussive vibrations to increase rates of droplet creation. Hexagon-tubed sponge belts can be used to maximize collection contact areas. Micron misters and one or more fans can be used to maximize evaporation rates. Solar-heated water sources can be used to optimize temperature differences between collectors and incoming water vapors to achieve maximum collection rates. Operating costs can be reduced by removing or reducing the reliance on external power, such as by using gravity or wind-driven evaporation and internal-power generation, solar-Attorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01 heating of incoming water for maximum collection rates, and pump-to or collect-at-height systems for gravity-assisted exportation.

[0070] Improvements can be made to ecological and fiscal management of resulting brine / salt by-products by using and adjusting micron misting, fans, distances, and vacuums for salt collection and sale. Solutions can include sequestration and monetization of previously collected carbon dioxide, e.g., by adding collected carbon dioxide to incoming seawater to create calcium carbonate in seawater. This can be done, for example, by using micron misters, fans, distance adjustments, and a second vacuum tube to create calcium carbonate that is collected for sale. Various versions of proposed desalination facilities that are without brine management or brackish- water can include a gravity-driven, wind-propelled, collect-at-height, and maximized output solution. Other versions can include a brine management and export solution can use geodesic dome housing, brine management, brine management and carbon collection and export, solar heating of incoming seawater, and DAC through a controlled- growth algae hex grid and geodesic dome.

[0071] The details of one or more implementations of the subject matter of this specification are set forth in the Detailed Description, the accompanying drawings, and the claims. Other features, aspects, and advantages of the subject matter will become apparent from the Detailed Description, the claims, and the accompanying drawings.DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0072] FIG. 1 is a diagram of a system for gravity-driven seawater intake and desalination according to example implementations of the present disclosure.

[0073] FIG. 2 is a diagram of a system for wind-propelled seawater intake and evaporation according to example implementations of the present disclosure.

[0074] FIG. 3 is a diagram of a system for seawater intake, evaporation, and collection- at-height according to example implementations of the present disclosure.

[0075] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing example details of the system of FIG. 1 according to example implementations of the present disclosure.

[0076] FIG. 5 is a diagram of a brine management for processing seawater according to example implementations of the present disclosure.

[0077] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing example tunable variables that can be used for the system of FIG. 5 according to example implementations of the present disclosure.

[0078] FIG. 7 is a diagram of a system for brine management and calcium carbonate production according to example implementations of the present disclosure.Attorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01

[0079] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing examples of magnifying (e.g., Fresnel) lenses used in the system of FIG. 7 according to example implementations of the present disclosure.

[0080] FIG. 9 is a diagram of a system for carbon direct air capture using algae according to example implementations of the present disclosure.

[0081] FIG. 10 is a diagram of a system for a mega facility providing carbon dioxide capture and desalination according to example implementations of the present disclosure.

[0082] FIG. 11 is a diagram of a system for using wind power to power desalination of sea / brackish water according to example implementations of the present disclosure.

[0083] FIG. 12 is a diagram of an expanded view of lenses and tubing of the system of FIG. 11 according to example implementations of the present disclosure.

[0084] FIG. 13 is a diagram of an example water filtering process according to example implementations of the present disclosure.

[0085] FIGS. 14A and 14B are diagrams of a waste heat recovery system according to example implementations of the present disclosure.

[0086] FIGS. 15A and 15B are diagrams of a carbon dioxide direct air capture system using biological material according to example implementations of the present disclosure.

[0087] FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram of a control system (or controller), which may be used for example with the system of FIG. 1 and other systems described herein.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0088] The following detailed description describes techniques used for carbon dioxide capture and the desalination of seawater. Various modifications, alterations, and permutations of the disclosed implementations can be made and will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, and the general principles defined may be applied to other implementations and applications, without departing from the scope of the disclosure. In some instances, details unnecessary to obtain an understanding of the described subject matter may be omitted so as to not obscure one or more described implementations with unnecessary details that are within the skill of one of ordinary skill in the art. The present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the described or illustrated implementations, but to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the described principles and features.

[0089] FIG. 1 is a diagram of a system 100 for gravity-driven seawater intake and desalination according to example implementations of the present disclosure. The system 100 includes at least one first turbine 102 powered through the use of elevated seawater (e.g., seawater 104a). For example, the system 100 can use falling seawater 104b (from a source ofAttorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01 the elevated seawater 104a) to drive rollers 106 that rotate foam-sponge roller belts 108 that can absorb and raise seawater 104c (e.g., into position for rapid evaporation). In example implementations, the seawater 104a and 104c can be obtained from a body of water, e.g., an ocean / sea 110, or delivered to the system 100 from an external source.

[0090] The system 100 includes one or more fans 112 (e.g., high-speed fans) that can fan seawater in the foam-sponge roller belts 108 to generate at least desalinated water vapor 114. In this example, a process of evaporation also produces salt (in the form of powder). The foam-sponge roller belts 108 can be made of a foam sponge material. The use of such a material can facilitate a high rate of evaporation of the seawater from the foam-sponge roller belts 108, e.g., when air is driven by the one or more fans 112 toward the foam-sponge roller belts 108. Condensation collector tubes 116 can condense (e.g., through a process of condensation 118) the desalinated water vapor 114 into desalinated water 120. In example implementations, the condensation collector tubes 116 can include rows of vertical collection tubes (e.g., round, hexagon-shaped, or otherwise) that are open at the tops and the bottoms. In some implementations, surfaces of the, e.g., hexagon-shaped collection tubes can be microtextured (e.g., laser-etched, like stainless steel pans). Micro-textures or other texturing can encourage droplets to adhere less strongly and fall sooner. In some implementations, surfaces can be coated with a hydrophobic coating to increase droplet rate. Depending on the texturing / coating that is used, frequencies of tapping the tubes to promote the falling of droplets can be tested and adjusted to determine which combination of texturing and tapping is most efficient.

[0091] The one or more fans 112 (and other fans that are used in the systems described in this disclosure) can have large diameters for fanning large areas. For example, the large areas can include areas above the hex sponge belt units, or areas encompassing wide mists produced by misters (e.g., if the misters are blowing out a six-foot wide mist). In the latter example, six-foot fans can be used. In some implementations, fan-speed settings can be set at 5-10 miles per hour (MPH), e.g., a speed that optimizes evaporation of seawater. Speeds can be varied, e.g., to optimize the production of falling salt and other products.

[0092] In example implementations, the system 100 includes a second turbine 122 that can be driven by the falling seawater 104b to generate electricity 124, e.g., to power the one or more fans 112 or other equipment. In example implementations, the first turbine 102 and the second turbine 122 can be arranged in series (or in parallel), e.g., so that the falling seawaterAttorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01104b engages both turbines in sequence (or simultaneously). The first turbine 102 and the second turbine 122 can include, for example, paddlewheels for engaging the falling seawater 104b.

[0093] In example implementations, the system 100 includes a pump that can be used to pump the desalinated seawater 104a from a seawater source (e.g., the ocean / sea 110) to an elevation, e.g., at a height greater than the height of components of the system 100 that rely on the falling seawater 104b. In example implementations, the system 100 includes a centrifugal pump 126 for pumping the desalinated water 120 to another location, such as to storage tanks (e.g., onsite or on a cargo ship or truck) or to pipes that provide desalinated water to another location (e.g., further inland from a shore-based desalination site). In example implementations, the seawater 104a can be provided through or over a seawall 128. In example implementations, the falling seawater 104b can fall into a seawater return 104c used for returning the seawater to a seawater source.

[0094] The system 100 includes a flow control system 199 that includes and connects, for example, fans, blowers, pumps, valves, processors, and other components. The flow control system 199 can control the flow, for example, of seawater, desalinated water, electricity, and control information. For example, the liquid process streams in the system 100, as well as process streams within any downstream processes with which the system 100 is fluidly coupled, can be flowed using one or more flow control systems (e.g., flow control system 199). A flow control system can include one or more turbines, one or more flow pumps (including or in addition to the pumps 126), fans, blowers, or solids conveyors to move the process streams, one or more flow pipes through which the process streams are flowed, and one or more valves to regulate the flow of streams through the pipes. Each of the configurations described herein can include at least one variable frequency drive (VFD) coupled to a respective pump that is capable of controlling at least one liquid flow rate. In example implementations, liquid flow rates are controlled by at least one flow control valve, such as to control multiple rates of flow that are combined and adjusted to increase the overall efficiency of the system 100.

[0095] In example implementations, a flow control system can be operated manually. For example, an operator can set a flow rate for each pump or transfer device and set valve open or close positions to regulate the flow of the process streams through the pipes in the flow control system. Once the operator has set the flow rates and the valve open or close positions for all flow control systems distributed across the system, the flow control system can flow the streams under constant flow conditions, for example, constant volumetric rate or other flowAttorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01 conditions. To change the flow conditions, the operator can manually operate the flow control system, for example, by changing the pump flow rate or the valve open or close position.

[0096] In example implementations, a flow control system can be operated automatically. For example, the flow control system can be connected to a computer or control system (e.g., flow control system 199) to operate the flow control system. The control system can include a computer-readable medium storing instructions (such as flow control instructions and other instructions) executable by one or more processors to perform operations (such as flow control operations). An operator can set the flow rates and the valve open or close positions for all flow control systems distributed across the facility using the control system. In such implementations, the operator can manually change the flow conditions by providing inputs through the control system. Also, in such implementations, the control system can automatically (that is, without manual intervention) control one or more of the flow control systems, for example, using feedback systems connected to the control system. For example, a sensor (such as a pressure sensor, temperature sensor, humidity sensor, or other sensor) can be connected to a pipe through which a process stream flows. The sensor can monitor and provide a flow condition (such as a pressure, temperature, or other flow conditions) of the process stream to the control system. In response to the flow condition exceeding a threshold (such as a threshold pressure value, a threshold temperature value, or other threshold value), the control system can automatically perform operations. For instance, if the pressure or temperature in the pipe exceeds the threshold pressure value or the threshold temperature value, respectively, the control system can provide a signal to the pump to decrease a flow rate, a signal to open a valve to relieve the pressure, a signal to shut down process stream flow, or other signals. In example implementations, flow rates can be automatically adjusted based on time-of-day, e.g., in daytime versus nighttime operations.

[0097] FIG. 2 is a diagram of a system 200 for wind-propelled seawater intake and evaporation according to example implementations of the present disclosure. The system 200 includes a first turbine (e.g., windmill-powered turbine 202) powered by a windmill. The first turbine can drive a top roller 204a and a bottom roller 204b that rotate foam-sponge roller belts 206 used to absorb seawater (e.g., ocean water 208). One or more fans 210 (e.g., relatively high-volume fans) can fan the seawater in the foam-sponge rollers belts 206 to generate at least desalinated water vapor 212, during which salt is also generated. A bottom roller 204b can rotate the foam-sponge roller belts 206 and cause the foam-sponge roller belts 206 to pick up the seawater and raise the seawater to an elevation above the one or more fans 210.Attorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01

[0098] Condensation collector tubes 214 can condense (through condensation 216) the desalinated water vapor 212 into desalinated water 217. The desalinated water 217 can be collected, for example, in a desalinated water collection pan 218, which can be positioned to collect the desalinated water 217 that drips the falls directly from the condensation collector tubes 214.

[0099] The one or more fans 210 can be driven by one or more of the first turbine (e.g., windmill-powered turbine 202), stored power (e.g., stored in batteries) generated by the first turbine, or a second turbine (e.g., dedicated to providing power to the one or more fans 210). In some implementations, the system 200 (and other systems described herein) can include mechanisms that support manual and automatic switching between power sources. For example, on a windy day, the windmill can also charge one or more batteries in addition to spinning the fans and sponge belt assembly. When there is little or no wind, the one or more batteries can be used to power turbines that run the fans and sponge belts. In some implementations, the system 200 can be a lean, less-costly, no-power, no-hassle version that is more passive in nature. In this example, the system may have no backup power source, and thus can simply sit idle during times of no wind.

[0100] In example implementations, the system 200 can include a facility enclosure 220 that encloses at least the one or more fans 210 and the condensation collector tubes 214. The facility enclosure 220 can protect at least the one or more fans 210 and the condensation collector tubes 214 from forces (e.g., humidity, wind, and temperature) that are external to the facility enclosure 220. In example implementations, the facility enclosure 220 can include at least a geodesic dome structure that is built on dry land 222. Some implementations of the system 200 can exist entirely offshore and can produce desalinated water to be piped onto cargo ships or trucks or piped to onshore locations.

[0101] In example implementations, the system 200 can include a centrifugal pump 224 for pumping the desalinated water (e.g., as desalinated water out 226) from the desalinated water collection pan 218 to at least one other location. In example implementations, one or more pipes can be connected to the desalinated water collection pan 218. The pipes can disperse (e.g., by gravity) the desalinated water to at least one other location. In example implementations, a controller (e.g., flow control system 199) can control the opening and closing of valves to direct the water to specific locations at specific rates. Desalinated water (e.g., after removal of salt and carbonate) can be further filtered as needed, e.g., as described with reference to FIG. 13. For example, various industry-known filtering techniques can beAttorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01 used, such as to produce drinkable water. Pre-filtering can also be used, e.g., on seawater that a facility uses to make desalinated water.

[0102] FIG. 3 is a diagram of a system 300 for seawater intake, evaporation, and collection-at-height according to example implementations of the present disclosure. The system 300 can be used in coastal areas, for example. The system 300 can include a pump that is configured to raise seawater to elevation. The system 300 can evaporate the seawater and collect desalinated water at the raised elevation in order to use gravity to export the desalinated water where needed.

[0103] The system 300 includes a first turbine 302 that is powered by falling seawater 304. In example implementations, the falling seawater 304 can be released from a source of seawater 305 that is pumped and raised to the top of a pump tower base 307, e.g., by a centrifugal pump 309.

[0104] The first turbine 302 can drive roller belts 306 that rotate foam-sponge rollers 308 that can absorb at least some of the falling seawater 304. One or more fans 310 (e.g., high- volume fans) can fan the seawater in the foam-sponge rollers to generate at least desalinated water vapor 312 which can be condensed 314 using condensation collector tubes 316 to produce desalinated water 318. A collector pan 320 can collect droplets of the desalinated water 318 that falls from the condensation collector tubes 316.

[0105] In example implementations, the one or more fans 310 can be driven by one or more of the first turbine 302, stored power generated by the first turbine 302, or a second turbine. In example implementations, control systems attached to switches can be used to switch between power sources (e.g., manually or by the flow control system 199) so that the most efficient power source can be used at a given time.

[0106] In example implementations, a facility enclosure 322 (e.g., a geodesic dome structure), can be used to enclose at least the one or more fans 310 and the condensation collector tubes 316. In this way, the facility enclosure 322 can protect at least the one or more fans 310 and the condensation collector tubes 316 from undesirable forces (e.g., humidity, wind, and temperature) that are external to the facility enclosure 322.

[0107] In example implementations, at least one pipe 324 connected to the collector pan 320 and can be used to transport (e.g., using at least gravity) the desalinated water 318 in the collector pan 320 to at least one other location. In example implementations, a controller (e.g., the flow control system 199) can be used to open and close valves to direct the desalinated water 318 to specific locations.Attorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01

[0108] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing example details of the system 400 according to example implementations of the present disclosure. Specifically, the example details include example configurations of condensation collector tubes and combinations of fans and foamsponge rollers.

[0109] In example implementations, condensation collector tubes 402 can be arranged in a substantially interlocking hexagon pattern. This arrangement or variations of this type of arrangement of the substantially interlocking hexagon pattern can be used for the condensation collector tubes that are used in any of the systems described in this disclosure. The condensation collector tubes 402 can be used to condense desalinated water vapor 406. In example implementations, a percussive vibrator 404 that is attached (or in proximity) the condensation collector tubes 402 can be used to percussively vibrate the condensation collector to the condensation collector tubes 402. Resulting vibrations can accelerate the falling rate of droplets 408 of the desalinated water. In some implementations, the percussive vibrator 404 can be programmed to run intermittently (e.g., using a timer). Interval timing can be programmed to automatically change based on a time-of-day (e.g., every second during the day, and every two seconds at night), depending on whether night collection is slower than day collection. In some implementations, the percussive vibrator 404 can be programmed to run based on readings from one or more sensors, e.g., that indicate a presence of accumulated droplets or based on other environmental factors (e.g., humidity, temperature).

[0110] In example implementations, fans and foam-sponge rollers that are used in systems described herein can be configured as a rotating group of sponge belt fan units. Such a grouping of rollers and fans can be used instead of, or in addition to, the configurations of the systems described in this disclosure. In example implementations, a fan and sponge belt grouping can include revolving evaporative sponge belt fan units 410. For example, a single revolving evaporative sponge belt fan unit 410a can include a fan 412 and a group of (e.g., six) sponge belt units 414 that are positioned around a roller 416 (e.g., driven by a turbine) that rotates the group of sponge belt units 414 through a seawater trough 418. In example implementations, each sponge belt can separately rotate so as to more fully absorb seawater in the seawater trough 418 before being rotated in front of the fan 412. As the fan 412 blows air through the group of sponge belt units 414, the desalinated water vapor 406 is produced.

[0111] FIG. 5 is a diagram of a brine management system 500 for processing seawater according to example implementations of the present disclosure. The brine management system 500 can be housed, for example, in an enclosed facility 502 having a geodesic dome shape. One or more fans 504 (e.g., high-volume fans) are positioned inside the enclosed facilityAttorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01502 and can be arranged at least alongside regions and a top region of the enclosed facility 502. The one or more fans 504 can circulate the seawater (e.g., in mist form) and generate, through evaporation of the seawater, desalinated water vapor 506 and salt dust 508. Solar-powered heaters can heat the seawater to increase evaporation rates of the seawater, e.g., below the top region of the enclosed facility 502. Condensation collector tubes 510 can condense the desalinated water vapor 506 into desalinated water. At least one salt vacuum 512, e.g., positioned inside a subfloor 514 of the enclosed facility 502, can vacuum the salt dust 508 through holes of the subfloor 514. At the same time, a collector pan 516 can collect the desalinated water that falls from the condensation collector tubes 510. Desalinated water in the collector pan 516 can be used to provide water out 518, e.g., to deliver desalinated water to a cargo ship, a truck, to piping, or to another destination. In example implementations, the brine management system 500 can include a water removal system that is used to remove the desalinated water from the brine management system 500, e.g., through the water out 518.

[0112] In example implementations, the condensation collector tubes 510 can include micro-etched edges that can reduce water adhesion of (and increase droplet creation from) the desalinated water vapor 506. In example implementations, the brine management system 500 can include a percussive vibrator 518 that can be used to percussively vibrate the condensation collector tubes 510 and accelerate a falling rate of the desalinated water.

[0113] In example implementations, the brine management system 500 can include at least one pump that can be used to pump the seawater to the solar-powered heaters 520. In example implementations, the brine management system 500 can include an air exhaust system 521 that is positioned in the subfloor and can remove excess air from the brine management system 500.

[0114] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing example tunable variables 602 that can be used for the brine management system 500 according to example implementations of the present disclosure. For example, the tunable variables 602 can be used for tuning the brine management system 500 to maximize efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and increase production of desalinated water and other products. In an example, individual tunable variables 602 can be used to control angles, velocities, and temperatures of seawater mist in a micronsized seawater-mi ster / fan combination, including tuning variables that control nozzle micron size, water pressure, fan wind speed, fan angle, and vacuum force and size.

[0115] In example implementations, the condensation collector tubes 510 and the one or more fans 504 of the brine management system 500 can be arranged in a stadium style arrangement 600. Referring to a side view 601a, for example, fan 504a can be positioned asAttorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01 one of the fans 504 that are closest to the condensation collector tubes 510, e.g., arranged in a circle around the condensation collector tubes 510 (e.g., shown as being 50 feet high). Continuing this example, an additional but slightly higher circular arrangement of fans 504b can be positioned further away from the condensation collector tubes 510. This circular pattern can continue with additional circular arrangements of fans 504, so that the circular arrangements of the fans 504 are substantially concentric, while increasing in height. In example implementations, the positioning and arrangement of the circles or other arrangement patterns can be used. Angles of the fans 504 can also vary, depending on the distances of the fans 504 from the condensation collector tubes 510. In this way, fans 504a and 504b can be angled differently relative to vertical. In example implementations, differences in the angles of the fans 504 can be used, e.g., to create a slight clockwise or counterclockwise air flow in the brine management system 500, or for other circulatory purposes.

[0116] Misters 612 can also be organized in the stadium style arrangement 600, so as to provide seawater mist in the vicinity of the fans 504. Operation of the fans 504 in the presence of the seawater mist produces desalinated water vapor 606 and salt dust 608. Vacuums 610 can be used to vacuum away the salt dust 608, such as to a salt collection container or a nearby cargo ship.

[0117] Referring to a front view 601b, for example, fans 504a are shown on a same level of the stadium style arrangement 600. Industrial misters / fans 612 illustrate example configurations of the fans 504a and the misters 604.

[0118] FIG. 7 is a diagram of a system 700 for brine management and calcium carbonate production according to example implementations of the present disclosure. The system 700 can be a different version of the system 500 but adding a feature of calcium carbonate production.

[0119] The system 700 includes an enclosed facility (e.g., enclosed facility 502) that has a geodesic dome shape and can process brine and carbon in seawater. One or more fans 504 are positioned inside the enclosed facility and are arranged at least alongside regions and a top region of the enclosed facility. The one or more fans 504 can raise the seawater and generate (through evaporation of the seawater) calcium carbonate 702, desalinated water vapor 606, and salt dust 608.

[0120] The system 700 includes condensation collector tubes 510 that can condense the desalinated water vapor 606 into desalinated water. The condensation further results in the creation of calcium carbonate 702 and salt 608. Vacuums that are used at different heights in the system 700 can include salt vacuums 610 (e.g., described with reference to FIG. 6) andAttorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01 calcium carbonate vacuums 704 (e.g., used to vacuum the calcium carbonate for mass collection). A collector pan can be used to collect the desalinated water that falls from the condensation collector tubes 510.

[0121] In example implementations, the system 700 includes solar-powered heaters that can be used to heat the seawater (e.g., above ocean water temperatures) closer to evaporation temperatures. In example implementations, the system 700 includes a percussive vibrator that is used to percussively vibrate the condensation collector tubes 510 to accelerate a falling rate of the desalinated water.

[0122] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing examples of magnifying (e.g., Fresnel) lenses 802 used in the system 700 according to example implementations of the present disclosure. For example, the Fresnel lenses 802 can be arranged within the six triangles 804 formed in hexagonal units 806 of an enclosed facility 808. Other arrangements of the magnifying lenses 802 are possible, including different frequencies (e.g., 3 or 4, represented by frequency, v) used in geodesic domes, where the frequency refers to how many times each edge of a base polygon (e.g., hexagon) is subdivided to create additional triangles. The enclosed facility 808 is depicted in FIG. 8 as a v4 frequency geodesic dome structure.

[0123] In example implementations, the magnifying lenses 802 can be used to heat seawater in black pipes 810 underneath (e.g., on the non-sunny side of) the magnifying lenses 802. The quantity and placement of the hexagon units 806 can be based on and take advantage of available sunlight. Some of the hexagonal units 806 can be enabled or disabled depending on season-based sunlight availability (e.g., sun height and sun angle relative to the magnifying lenses). In example implementations, the flow control system 199 can be used to enable and disable specific magnifying lenses 802. In example implementations, other lens systems can be used instead of (or in addition to) magnifying lenses 802 to concentrate sunlight for more efficient heating of a surface (e.g., black plastic pipe).

[0124] FIG. 9 is a diagram of a system 900 for carbon direct air capture using algae according to example implementations of the present disclosure. The system 900 can be housed in an enclosed facility 902 that has a geodesic dome shape and can be used to process seawater and atmospheric air (e.g., through an air intake 904) that includes carbon dioxide (e.g., a dilute source of carbon dioxide). The enclosed facility 902 can include control components (e.g., the flow control system 199) for controlling light, temperature, humidity, and seawater intake.

[0125] The system 900 includes seawater mister fans 906 that can be used to fan falling seawater to generate seawater vapor and air 908. An algae farm and carbon dioxide captureAttorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01 unit 908 hanging inside the enclosed facility 902 can be used to grow algae and capture carbon from the seawater vapor 908 and air received in the air intake 904. The algae farm and carbon dioxide capture unit 908 can include vertical hexagon-shaped collection tubes 910 that are open at the tops and the bottoms. Solar-powered heaters 912 can be used to heat the seawater, e.g., to raise the temperature of the seawater closer to evaporation temperatures. In example implementations, the solar-powered heaters 912 can include the use of one or both of Fresnel lens and aerated concrete. Seawater can be piped to the solar-powered heaters 912, e.g., from one or more prefiltering facilities.

[0126] Clear polyvinyl chloride (PVC) roof panels 914 can be used to allow sunlight 916 to pass into the enclosed facility 902. A collector pan 918 can be used to collect the algae that falls from the hexagon-shaped collection tubes 910 in the hexagon tube algae farm and carbon dioxide capture unit 908. A seawater drain 920 can be used to drain excess seawater from the enclosed facility 902, e.g., after the seawater has been processed. The drain excess seawater can be drained into a sea / brackish inlet 921, where a cargo ship 923 can be loaded with algae 925 produced by the algae farm and carbon dioxide capture unit 908.

[0127] In example implementations, a collection of mirrors and prisms 922 can be used to reflect light into bottom openings of the vertical hexagon- shaped collection tubes. As such, air and light 924 is present below the algae farm and carbon dioxide capture unit 908. In example implementations, the system 900 can include a percussive vibrator 926 that can percussively vibrate the hexagon-shaped collection tubes 910 and accelerate a falling rate of the algae. An air exhaust system 928 can exhaust air from the enclosed facility 902, e.g., after the air has been processed for carbon direct air capture. Images 930 show example of algae collection tubes, though the hexagon-shaped collection tubes 910 of system 900 are intended to be vertical.

[0128] FIG. 10 is a diagram of a system 1000 for a mega facility for providing carbon dioxide capture and desalination according to example implementations of the present disclosure. In example implementations, the system 1000 can be a combination of the system 700 for brine management and calcium carbonate production combined with the system 500 for carbon direct air capture using algae. The system 1000 can also incorporate one or more features of other systems described in this disclosure.

[0129] The system 1000 includes a first enclosed facility 1002 that has a geodesic dome shape that can be used to process brine and carbon in seawater. The first enclosed facility 1002 includes one or more fans 504 positioned inside the first enclosed facility 1002. The one or more fans 504 can be arranged at least alongside regions and a top region of the first enclosedAttorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01 facility 1002. The one or more fans 504 can be used to raise the seawater (e.g., mist) and generate, through evaporation of the seawater, calcium carbonate, desalinated water vapor, and salt dust.

[0130] The first enclosed facility 1002 includes condensation collector tubes (e.g., condensation collector tubes 510) that can be used to condense the desalinated water vapor into desalinated water. Calcium carbonate vacuums can be used to vacuum the calcium carbonate dust that is produced during the evaporation process. Vacuums 610 can be used to vacuum the salt dust that is also produced during the evaporation process. Vacuums 704 can be used to vacuum the calcium carbon dust that is also produced during the evaporation process. Refer to FIG. 7 for a detailed description of the different type of vacuums. As a result, referring to FIG. 10, calcium carbonate and salt out 1006 are produced by the first enclosed facility 1002. A collector pan 516 can be used to collect the desalinated water that falls from the condensation collector tubes. A direct air capture (DAC) carbon capture facility 1008 can provide carbondioxide 1010 to the first enclosed facility 1002 for processing.

[0131] The system 1000 includes a second enclosed facility 1004 that has a geodesic dome shape and can process seawater and atmospheric air that includes carbon dioxide (e.g., a dilute source of carbon dioxide). The second enclosed facility 1004 includes components that can be used to control light, temperature, humidity, and seawater intake. The second enclosed facility 1004 includes seawater mister fans 906 that can be used to fan falling seawater to generate at least seawater vapor 908. An algae farm and carbon dioxide capture unit 908 hanging inside the second enclosed facility 1004 can be used to grow algae and perform capture carbon from seawater vapor and air received in an air intake. The algae farm and carbon dioxide capture unit 908 includes vertical hexagon-shaped collection tubes 910 that are open at the tops and the bottoms. Solar-powered heaters 912 can heat the seawater. Clear PVC roof panels 914 can allow sunlight into the second enclosed facility 1004. A collector pan can collect the algae that falls from the hexagon tube algae farm and carbon dioxide capture unit 908. A seawater drain can drain seawater from the second enclosed facility.

[0132] The system 1000 includes a pumping system 1020 through which prefiltered seawater (e.g., with CO2 added / converted to calcium carbonate) is pumped up and into solar heating coils and then down to the misters.

[0133] FIG. 11 is a diagram of a system 1100 for using wind power to power desalination of sea / brackish water 1102 according to example implementations of the present disclosure. At a high level, the system 1100 can include an oval Ferris- wheel -type structure that rotates loofah-like sponges and is gear / shaft-driven by the windmill. For example, theAttorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01 sponges can dip into the ocean or other seawater source and absorb the seawater before the seawater-absorbed sponges are lifted in front of fans for desalination of the seawater by way of evaporation.

[0134] For example, the system 1100 can be powered by a windmill 1104 that drives fans 1106. The fans 1106 blow on sponges 1108 (e.g., loofah-like sponges, with an example cross-section 1109) that contain amounts of the sea / brackish water 1102. The fans 1106 can be mounted on a rotating sponge structure 1110, e.g., as shown in FIG. 11 as being partially submerged in a source of the sea / brackish water 1102. In some implementations, the rotating sponge structure 1110 can be a Ferris-wheel-like structure as shown in FIG. 11, that rotates the sponges 1108. The rotating sponge structure 1110 can dip the sponges 1108 into the sea / brackish water 1102, where the sponges 1108 become water-soaked as they pick up the sea / brackish water 1102.

[0135] A windmill shaft 1113 of the windmill 1104 can operate like a crankshaft and rear cogs / sprockets of a bicycle, e.g., with multiple gear ratios. The multiple gear ratios can allow torque to be delivered to rotating components of the system 1100, regardless of the speed of the rotating sponge structure 1110. The multiple gear ratios can also allow the fans and the rotating sponge structure 1110 to rotate at different speeds while operating in unison in an optimal manner, e.g., to process amounts of the sea / brackish water 1102 at a rate that facilitates efficient fanning and generation of desalinated water vapor 1112.

[0136] The system 1100 includes a matrix of hex tube collector tubes 1114 for collecting the desalinated water vapor 1112 and for creating the desalinated water 1116 (e.g., that can be collected in droplet collector pans). For example, the fans 1106 can blow the desalinated water vapor 1112 into an area above the hex tube collector tubes 1114, e.g., in an area in which solar heaters 1118 can heat the desalinated water vapor 1112. This can allow the desalinated water vapor 1112 to be blown into warmed air above the top of a honeycombshaped structure of the hex tube collector tubes 1114. Doing this can help to keep the humidity as high as possible at all times in order to maximize condensation collection (e.g., the formation of water droplets inside the hex tube collector tubes 1114).

[0137] In some implementations, the solar heaters 1118 can heat PVC tubing that is housed in a dark-colored (e.g., black), aerated, concrete sleeve 1121 as shown in detail 1118a. The solar heaters 1118 can be positioned below triangular cells of a geodesic dome frame holding Fresnel lenses and coiled tubing, e.g., as shown in detail 1118b.

[0138] In some implementations, the hex tube collector tubes 1114 can have a cellular honeycomb tube design that is similar to the honeycomb design of honeycomb cellular windowAttorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01 shades. This design can exploit any design advances in honeycomb cellular window shades yet include design modifications that meet the unique needs and properties of the hex tube collector tubes 1114. Further, individual tubes of the hex tube collector tubes 1114 are vertical (unlike honeycomb cellular window shades, which are horizontal). The vertical arrangement of the hex tube collector tubes 1114 can enable gravity to be used to assist in pulling water downward through the tubes.

[0139] The solar heaters 1118 can include magnifying lenses (e.g., Fresnal lenses) and black tubing, among other possible components to complete the construction of the lenses. The black tubing may have no water flowing through it, but can serve the purpose of magnifying solar energy, providing a black, lightweight heat mass. The black tubing can serve as a solar heater to maintain higher temperatures in humid air above and next to the hex tube collector tubes 1114. Doing this can help to achieve a maximum possible condensation rate. The thermal mass of the solar heaters 1118 is intended to store heat and maximize the number of hours during a day in which a temperature difference between the air and the hex tube collector tubes is ideal for promoting condensation. In some implementations, the outer perimeter of the hex tube collector tubes 1114 can be wrapped with insulating material. A desired temperature difference between air and hex tube collector tubes 1114 can be, for example, ten degrees for max collection.

[0140] In systems that include misters, water can be pumped by pumps through the black tubing in order to heat the water for quicker evaporation as the water is misted. In nonmisting systems (e.g., windmill systems), no water is pumped through the black tubing, but the black tubing can collect solar heat, thus heating the air above and surrounding the coils. In this way, the black tubing can act as a heat mass to continue to heat the air after nightfall for as long as possible, to maintain an optimal degree difference (e.g., ten degrees) between air and the hex tube collector tubes 1114.

[0141] In some implementations, a collector unit 1120 includes the hex tube collector tubes 1114 can be constructed using a thin, light, bio-resistant plastic, flexible aluminum, or some other flexible metal, alloy, or material. The resulting flexibility can allow the collector unit 1120 to be collapsible and expandable like honeycomb cellular window shades, at least during installation. The cubic (three-dimensional) size of the collector unit 1120 can be adjusted by adding more rows of hex tube collector tubes 1114. Desalinated water that is collected by the collector unit 1120 can be collected at height so that gravity can be used to export the desalinated water from the system 1100 without the use of electricity or other power source. The collector unit 1120 and other components of the system 1100 can be located in aAttorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01 position 1121 (e.g., on dry land or on a raised pier) and covered by a geodesic structure.

[0142] In some implementations, the collector unit 1120 can be hung, e.g., from the top of a geodesic dome of a facility that houses the system 1100. In some implementations, the collector unit 1120 can be fully or partially supported by a frame assembly 1122 and can be tensioned from the top and sides of frame assembly 1122 (e.g., that also collects and stores collected water). This design can allow for easy setup and disassembly, while maximizing a collection contact area within the volume of the collector units 1120. Example details of a few hex tubes 1124 of an expandable collector-grid are shown in an open state, in which the expandable collector-grid can be collapsed / expanded to meet quicker shipping and assembly needs.

[0143] The expandable collector-grid can include extruded aluminum or copper hex tubes that are flexible yet strong enough to handle one or two cycles of accordion-style open / close changes. This design can also provide improved assembly, disassembly, and shipping. In some implementations, rows of the hex tubes can be spot-welded together on-site as needed to construct an overall cubed-grid pattern.

[0144] FIG. 12 is a diagram of an expanded view of lenses and tubing of the system 1100 according to example implementations of the present disclosure. In this expanded view, lenses (e.g., Fresnel lenses 1202) are arranged over coiled black tubing 1204 which is housed in concrete sleeve 1121 (e.g., made of black, aerated concrete). In this case, the triangle cells of the geodesic dome frame are not shown in order to reveal the coiled black tubing 1204, which can hang under the geodesic dome frame. The coiled black tubing 1204 can increase the heating rate of water that is processed daily to support the sponge structure 1110. The coiled black tubing 1204 can also act as a thermal mass to keep the upper atmosphere of the geodesic dome warmer than the collector grid in cooler evenings, if needed. Some implementations can use both a solar water heater and a radiant space heater, with the Fresnel lenses amplifying the solar power available to heat water rapidly, thus allowing a greater flow rate. In a top view 1206, the coiled black tubing 1204 is shown as being surrounded by the concrete sleeve 1121. In some implementations, coiled black tubing 1204 and the concrete sleeve 1121 can be combined by forming a black aerated-concrete sleeve over PVC pipe. This creates a tubing system that is lighter than black steel piping but can provide a better heat mass than steel piping when placed under a Fresnel lens. The aerated concrete can store the heat and can also protect the PVC from excessive heat (e.g., potentially melting) provided by the Fresnel lenses. The coiled black tubing 1204 can heat and carry flowing water 1205, e.g., the seawater that is heated before being fanned by the fans 1106.Attorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01

[0145] FIG. 13 is a diagram of an example water filtering process 1300 according to example implementations of the present disclosure. The process 1300 incudes a pre-filtering screening operation 1302 that can remove coarse and fine particles and debris from seawater or brackish water. The filtered water can then be used in a desalination operation 1304, e.g., by any of the desalination facilities 1304 and other systems described in this disclosure, including the systems described with reference to FIGS. 1-12. A post-filtering micro / ultra filtration operation 1306 can be used to further process and refine desalinated water, e.g., that is produced by any of the systems described in this disclosure. In some implementations, a desalination facility can include both of the pre- and post-filtering operations to meet the needs of the facility, including calibrating the pre-filtering based on the quality of source water that is available in the geographic location of the facility (or received at the facility from a remote source).

[0146] In some implementations, incoming water (e.g., seawater) that is used for salt / carbon-collecting (including the systems described in this disclosure) can be pre-filtered before desalination (and optionally carbon capture) occurs. As an example, the filtration of the incoming water can remove particles that are as small as 50 microns (or smaller). In some implementations, incoming water can be filtered to a level below 100 microns to prevent particles from clogging the misting nozzles. Filtering the incoming water down to 50 microns or smaller can effectively capture most larger particles and reduce the risk of clogging.

[0147] Sediment Filtration can also be used. For example, a sediment filter with a rating of 50 microns or 10 microns can be used to remove larger particulates, such as sand, dirt, and rust, which can cause the nozzles to clog. For more thorough sediment filtration, a 5- micron filter can be used to provide more effective filtering to remove finer debris and prevent clogs in machinery.

[0148] In some implementations, pre-filtration can occur in stages. For example, in a first stage used as a course filtering stage, a coarse filter (e.g., a 100-micron mesh filter) can be used to remove larger debris. In a second stage following the first stage, a fine filter (e.g., 5 to 50 microns) can be used to prevent finer particles from reaching the misting nozzles. Other stages of pre-filtering can occur, and other orders can be used.

[0149] In some implementations, additional water improvement actions can be taken to improve the quality of the incoming water. For example, water softening can be used if the water is hard. Water softening may be used, for example, to remove minerals that can contribute to scaling, which may also clog nozzles over time. In another example of additional water improvement actions, activated carbon can be used if there are concerns about theAttorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01 presence of organic matter or chlorine in the incoming water. Using activated carbon filters can help protect the system and enhance water quality. In yet another example of additional water improvement actions, anti-scaling agents can be used, e.g., in geographical regions where the water contains a high mineral content. Using the anti-scaling or anti-fouling agents, e.g., added to the water supply may, also be beneficial in preventing deposits in the misters.

[0150] FIGS. 14A and 14B are diagrams of an example implementation of a waste heat recovery system 1400 (or portions thereof) according to example implementations of the present disclosure. Example embodiments of the present disclosure provide a funnel-shaped griddle evaporator 1448 heated by a closed-loop working-fluid circuit supplied with heat recovered from industrial exhaust gas 1452. The griddle 1448, in this example, forms the base of a convection chamber 1436 that accelerates evaporation and channels vapor 1456 into a condensing hood 1412 for collection of distilled water 1428. As a saline feed 1462 trickles or otherwise moves across the heated funnel 1448, water evaporates into a desalinated water vapor 1458 and salt solids 1450 crystallize near an outlet 1466 of the funnel-shaped griddle evaporator 1448.

[0151] Although the present disclosure uses the term “funnel” to describe an example shape of the griddle 1448, any structure having certain geometries and functionality can be used for the griddle 1448. For example, a structure having a larger upper opening, a smaller lower opening, at least one sloped or converging surface configured to direct material / fluid / solids downward can be considered a “funnel” in the present disclosure. Such a structure can include, for example, round, square, triangular, hexagonal, octagonal shapes; smooth, faceted, stepped, or segmented tapers; and truncated cones and pyramids.

[0152] In addition, structures that are equivalent to a funnel in the present disclosure can include hoppers. For example, a hopper can include a structure with these features: a container or chamber, sloped or converging walls, used to direct material toward a lower opening, and not limited to round geometry and can include square, rectangular, pyramidal, or polygonal shapes. Hoppers, therefore, are not necessarily circular in overall shape and can transport (like funnels) bulk solids, fluids, slurries, condensate, salt, etc. therethrough. Thus, in the present disclosure, the terms “funnel” and “hopper” may be used interchangeably, and reference to funnels also include hoppers and vice versa.

[0153] In example aspects, the system 1400 can operate as a retrofit module for existing kilns or as an integrated feature of a new kiln design. Example working fluids may include thermal oil, molten salt, pressurized air, or water / glycol mixtures.Attorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01

[0154] In example embodiments, exchanged heat (conductive heat from an external source) 1452 can be used to directly heat a hot plate 1449 (e.g., griddle) of the funnel 1448. This conductive heat 1452 (e.g., from a lime kiln heat exchanger) that heats the griddle 1449 can also be a source 1442 of convection heat 1444, because the griddle 1449 heats the air 1446 in the oven 1436. The heated air 1446 rises through a volume of the vortex oven 1436, through hot air vents 1454 and above the funnel-shaped griddle evaporator 1448. The source salt water is introduced into the funnel-shaped griddle evaporator 1448 by nozzles 1460 that spray or otherwise circulate source saltwater or brine to be desalinated to the griddle 1449.

[0155] Thus, example aspects include a vortex oven 1436 with a hotplate funnel 1448 (including the hotplate / griddle 1449). Other example aspects include the use of lime kiln heat exchange fluid (oil / air / water) as the conductive heat source 1452 for the hotplate 1449, and the hotplate 1449 in turn heats the air 1446 inside the vortex oven 1436. The sources of heat can act to evaporate liquids in order to separate the liquid from dissolved solids 1450 (e.g., salt etc.), which are collected as waste solids 1464 in a solids collection basin 1438. Salts or other solids can be removed from the collection basin 1438 as a solids stream 1440.

[0156] As further shown in FIG. 14A, desalinated water vapor 1458 is collected into a desalinated mist collector hood 1412 and circulated through one or more filters to further remove salt or other solids. For example, in this example, a cyclone filter 1402 draws the desalinated water vapor 1458 through a mesh filter 1404, where salt is removed (from both filters) and deposited into a filtered salt capture drain 1414.

[0157] The desalinated, filtered water vapor 1408 is introduced from the mesh filter 1404 into a condenser hood 1406 for condensation (as described in other portions of the present disclosure). For example, the desalinated, filtered water vapor 1408 circulates through a condenser 1410 that includes one or more condenser tubes 1411. In this example, an inlet cooling fan 1416 introduces a cooling airflow 1420 through or across the tubes 1411, while an outlet fan 1418 draws the cooling airflow 1420 from the condenser 1410 to the atmosphere.

[0158] In this example implementation, desalinated water droplets 1426 exits the condenser 1410 into a suction / air gap 1424 below the condenser 1410, where it is collected in a basin 1422. An oven air exhaust fan 1430 draws exhaust air 1434 through an oven air exhaust scrubber 1432 and into the atmosphere. A desalinated water stream 1428 can be removed from the basin 1422 for a variety of uses.

[0159] An example embodiment of the system 1400 can retrofit onto older lime kilns, while another example embodiment can be for newly designed / installed lime kilns and comes prebuilt with the heat exchanger installed, ready to hook up to the hot plate inputs on the vortexAttorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01 oven / desalination unit 1436. In some aspects, such embodiments can provide for a hybrid lime kiln / desal system to provide freshwater independence to cement factories, which currently waste millions of gallons of freshwater daily to produce cement.

[0160] In another example embodiment, system 1400 provides for a closed loop, desalination of toxic salt brine water from hydrocarbon wells. For example, as shown, the scrubber 1432 can be added to the exhaust port of the condenser 1410 to capture the produced salt water and scrub the exhaust. In such embodiments, the heat source can be heat generated by burning waste hydrocarbon (e.g., flare gas or oil).

[0161] FIG. 14B shows a cross-section of the funnel griddle 1448 in which embedded tubular conduits 1470 are arranged (e.g., in serpentine paths) beneath an upper surface 1451 of the griddle 1448. As shown in FIG. 14B, hot air can flow in the tubular conduits 1470 to convectively heat the griddle 1448, thereby evaporating liquid in the saltwater or brine introduced by the nozzles 1460. In example aspects, the funnel-shaped griddle evaporator 1448 is heated by a closed-loop working-fluid circuit through the tubular conduits 1470 that is supplied with heat recovered from industrial exhaust gas. In this example as shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B, the funnel griddle 1448 can form the base of a convection chamber that accelerates evaporation and channels vapor into the condenser 1410 for collection of, e.g., distilled water. As a saline feed trickles across the heated funnel 1448, water evaporates up into a condensing hood for collection of distilled water, while solids crystallize and fall down into a hole at the base of the funnel to be collected for sale / reuse.

[0162] In sum, the system 1400 of FIG. 14 A and 14B provide for a process of an exhaust-gas heat exchanger, working-fluid loop, pump, bypass manifold, heated funnel griddle, convection chamber, and condensing hood. System 1400 provides for exhaust heat capture in the form of exhaust gas from a rotary kiln or similar industrial process that passes through a gas-to-fluid heat exchanger, transferring heat into a circulating working fluid. The exchanger can be of shell-and-tube, finned-coil, or plate type constructed of high-temperature alloy or stainless steel. The working-fluid loop of system 1400 acts to flow a heated working fluid through insulated piping to the evaporator assembly. A pump maintains circulation; a bypass manifold or three-way valve regulates flow (e.g., of hot exhaust fluid from the heat source) to control surface temperature (e.g., between about 350°F and 550°F (175-290°C)) of the griddle. A buffer tank can be included to accommodate expansion and store thermal energy for steady operation. The funnel -griddle of system 1400 provides for an evaporator that includes a thermally conductive plate (e.g., cast iron, stainless steel, or coated copper alloy) shaped as a shallow funnel. Below the plate are embedded or attached tubular conduits in conductiveAttorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01 thermal contact with the plate. The conduits can carry the heated working fluid and distribute heat uniformly across the surface. Saline or brine feed is delivered at the perimeter and flows by gravity toward the central outlet, forming a thin film that evaporates during flow. Solid salt or other minerals crystallize and are periodically collected from the outlet. The convection chamber and condensing hood of system 1400 includes the funnel that resides inside an insulated chamber with an adjustable fan or vent system that directs warm air upward to promote vapor rise. Vapor enters a condensing hood or coil assembly, where the vapor cools and yields distilled water suitable for reuse. System 1400, in example implementations, provides for controls and safety in the form of temperature sensors that monitor griddle surface and fluid temperature. As another example, automatic valves modulate bypass flow to maintain uniform heating. In addition, double containment of the heat-transfer fluid can prevent contamination of the evaporation surface of the griddle. System 1400 can include one, some, or all of the following alternative embodiments. For example, the working fluid can be thermal oil, molten salt, compressed air, or water. The heat source can include rotary kilns, cement kilns, lime furnaces, or any industrial exhaust above 400°C. System 1400 can provide for the following applications: seawater desalination, brine concentration, mineral recovery, or foodgrade salt production.

[0163] FIGS. 15A and 15B are diagrams of a carbon dioxide direct air capture (DAC) system 1500 using biological material (e.g., algae) according to example implementations of the present disclosure. In example aspects, the DAC system 1500 includes a closed-loop system with artificial (e.g., LED) illumination collecting wastewater and carbon dioxide from biological matter to produce fresh water.

[0164] As shown in these figures, DAC system 1500 includes a geodesic dome unit housing 1502 that provides an enclosed volume for other components of the system 1500. One or more geodesic dome air intake fans 1504 are positioned to bring outside air into the dome 1502. A water source provides a flow of water 1506 (e.g., saltwater or brine) into the dome 1502. One or more solar panels 1508 are mounted to or formed within the dome 1502.

[0165] As further shown in FIG. 15 A, the flow of water 1506 is circulated up to one or more perimeter mister nozzles 1512 by a pump / filter assembly 1534 and through a piping assembly 1530. The perimeter mister nozzles 1512 are positioned at a top end of a tube grid support and enclosure 1528 that supports a plurality of clear tubes 1540 for biomaterial (e.g., algae) farming. The tubes 1540 include tubes (a) for harvest-ready algae, tubes (b) for algae harvesting work-in-progress (WIP), and just-harvested clean tubes (c). One or more light sources 1510, such as LED grow light tubes, can be installed between the tubes 1540 to provideAttorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01 light to the biomaterial growing in the tubes 1540. As further shown in FIG. 15 A, a water mist 1536 is introduced by the nozzles 1512 to the tubes 1540. The water mist 1536 is used to grow the biomaterial (algae) in the tubes 1540.

[0166] In this example, tubes (a) are full of biomaterial (algae), tubes (b) have biomaterial that is being harvested by operation of a plunger 1514 (operated by an overhead crane with two dimensional harvesting plunger control by cable connections to the plungers 1514) that pushes the biomaterial onto a collection screen conveyor assembly 1544, and tubes (c) are empty and ready for additional biomaterial to grow therein. The collected biomaterial 1546 is taken on the collection screen conveyor assembly 1544 to a biomaterial collection basin 1524.

[0167] As further shown in FIG. 15 A, an airflow is circulated through the tubes 1540 by one or more tube enclosure exhaust fans 1526. The fan(s) 1526 are positioned to circulate the exhausted air and water mist from the tube grid support and enclosure 1528 and into the volume of the geodesic dome unit housing 1502. Further, one or more exhaust fans 1516 are positioned at or in the housing 1502 to circulate an oxygen rich airflow from the housing 1502 to the atmosphere or ambient environment.

[0168] As further shown in FIG. 15 A, water from the collected biomaterial on the collection screen conveyor assembly 1544 is collected in a water / nutrient collection basin 1542. The water can drip from the collected biomaterial, through a screen of the conveyor assembly 1544, and to the basin 1542. A portion of the collected water can be circulated through a wastewater conduit 1522 and through a filtration assembly 1520 before it is output as wastewater 1518. Another portion of the collected water can be returned to the filter / pump assembly 1534 as recycled water 1532. This recycled water 1532 can then be provided through the conduit 1530 back to the misters 1512.

[0169] In example aspects of the DAC system 1500, the described components can be built on or otherwise supported by a foundation 1548. As shown, a control system 1558 can be operated (manually, automatically, through computer operation or otherwise) to control certain aspects of the system 1500, such as solar panels, energy storage, pumps, valves, fans, and other equipment).

[0170] Turning briefly to FIG. 15B, this shows a detailed top-view of the tubes 1540. In this example, the tubes 1540 can be hexagonal in cross-section; alternatively, the tubes 1540 can be circular or other cross-sectional shape. The light growth tubes 1510 are shown positioned at multiple (e.g., 2, 3, 4, or more) vertices of each hexagonal shaped tube 1540. In this example, with multiple (e.g., 3 in this example) vertices at each tube 1540 illuminated withAttorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01 light, each edge or wall of each tube 1540 is thereby illuminated to allow for the passing of light into the tube 1540 from each edge or wall.

[0171] In a specific example operation of the DAC system 1500 with specific components, outside air from the atmosphere passes through the Geodesic Dome Unit Housing 1502 by way of the Geodesic Dome Air Intake Fan(s) 1504 and the untreated air is pulled into the collection of Tubes 1540 for Algae Farming (which is sealed within and supported by the Tube Grid Support & Enclosure 1528) where algae is grown inside the tubes 1540 using fullspectrum light from LED Grow Lights placed inside the LED Grow Light Tubes 1510. The algae is fed water and nutrients (seawater / freshwater depending on the type of algae desired) via the Perimeter Mister Nozzles 1512, with Water Mist 1536 and incoming air being pulled into and through the collection of tubes 1540 by the Algae Tube Enclosure Exhaust Fan 1526. The growing algae absorbs Carbon Dioxide from the air as it grows.

[0172] Continuing, water (sea / fresh, depending on type of algae grown) enters into the housing 1502 at the Water In port 1506 and is filtered and pumped by the Water Filtration and Pumping station 1534 via the Water Pipe Up to Misters 1530 to the Perimeter Mister Nozzles 1512 for Water Mist 1536 creation to feed / wet the algae. Water not absorbed by algae drips down into the Water & Nutrient Recycling Collection Pan 1542 to be passed to the Water Filtration and Pumping station 1534 via the Recycled Water / Nutrient Content conduit 1532 and recycled back up to the Perimeter Mister Nozzles 1512 to conserve water.

[0173] As algae reaches maximum growth potential inside the tubes 1540, algae is removed using the Overhead Crane with X / Y Axis Harvesting Plunger System 1538 to drop the weighted Plunger 1514 into the tubes (a) (shown as tubes (b)) and causing the Plunged Algae 1546 to fall onto the Algae Collection Screen Conveyor Belt System 1544 where Plunged Algae 1546 then falls into the Algae Collection Bin 1524 resulting in a tube (c). Collected Algae Wastewater 1522 is passed for filtering by the Wastewater Filter 1520 before being expelled via the Wastewater Out conduit 1518. Oxygen-Rich Air is vented out of the housing 1502 by the Geodesic Dome Exhaust Fan(s) 1516. The system 1500 is self-powered via Solar Panels 1508 and the Solar Power Storage & System Controls 1558. The housing 1502 is supported by the Foundation 1548 (which can also house the plumbing / conduits / drains for the unit if desired).

[0174] The DAC system 1500 shown in FIG. 15A can provide several advantages. For example, the system 1500 can provide light and growth optimization. The internal LED and tube design creates an optimized, continuous biomaterial growth environment.Attorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01

[0175] The DAC system 1500 shown in FIG. 15A can provide continuous operation. By using internal light sources, the system can be completely independent of the sun and the day / night cycle. This allows for continuous, around-the-clock algae growth, dramatically increasing yield over time.

[0176] The DAC system 1500 shown in FIG. 15A can provide total light saturation. For example, placing the lights inside the tubes eliminates the problem of “self-shading” common in ponds, where algae on top block light from reaching algae below. Every cell can receive optimal, full-spectrum light, ensuring the entire biomaterial culture is highly productive.

[0177] The DAC system 1500 shown in FIG. 15A can provide maximized photosynthesis. For example, the combination of constant, optimized light and a constant supply of CO2 creates the ideal conditions for photosynthesis, pushing the biomaterial to its maximum growth potential.

[0178] The DAC system 1500 shown in FIG. 15A can provide environmental control and efficiency. For example, the enclosed, vertical tube grid provides a superior environment compared to open systems. The tube grid support and enclosure with dedicated exhaust ensures that air is constantly pulled through the tubes for maximum growing efficiency. Evaporation is drastically reduced, as unlike open ponds, the enclosed tubes and water-collection / recycling system help prevent water loss to the atmosphere, which increases efficiency. Further, the system has high land-use efficiency, as the vertical design of the clear tubes for biomaterial farming allows growth of a large amount of algae on a very small physical footprint, making it far more space-efficient than traditional agriculture or algae ponds.

[0179] FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram of a control system (or controller) 1600, which may be used, for example, with the system 100. The control system 1600 can be used for the operations described in association with any of the computer-implemented methods described previously, for example, as or as part of the flow control system 199 or other controllers described herein.

[0180] The control system 1600 is intended to include various forms of digital computers, such as laptops, desktops, workstations, personal digital assistants, servers, blade servers, mainframes, and other appropriate computers. The control system 1600 can also include mobile devices, such as personal digital assistants, cellular telephones, smartphones, and other similar computing devices. Additionally, the system can include portable storage media, such as, Universal Serial Bus (USB) flash drives. For example, the USB flash drives may store operating systems and other applications. The USB flash drives can includeAttorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01 input / output components, such as a wireless transmitter or USB connector that may be inserted into a USB port of another computing device.

[0181] The control system 1600 includes a processor 1610, a memory 1620, a storage device 1630, and an input / output device 1640. Each of the components 1610, 1620, 1630 and 1640 are interconnected using a system bus 1650. The processor 1610 is capable of processing instructions for execution within the control system 1600. The processor may be designed using any of a number of architectures. For example, the processor 1610 may be a CISC (Complex Instruction Set Computers) processor, a RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computer) processor, or a MISC (Minimal Instruction Set Computer) processor.

[0182] In example implementations, the processor 1610 is a single-threaded processor. In example implementations, the processor 1610 is a multi -threaded processor. The processor 1610 is capable of processing instructions stored in the memory 1620, or on the storage device 1630 to display graphical information for a user interface on the input / output device 1640.

[0183] The memory 1620 stores information within the control system 1600. In example implementations, the memory 1620 is a computer-readable medium. In other implementations, the memory 1620 is a volatile memory unit. In example implementations, the memory 1620 is a non-volatile memory unit.

[0184] The storage device 1630 is capable of providing mass storage for the control system 1600. In example implementations, the storage device 1630 is a computer-readable medium. In various different implementations, the storage device 1630 may be a floppy disk device, a hard disk device, an optical disk device, or a tape device.

[0185] The input / output device 1640 provides input / output operations for the control system 1600. In example implementations, the input / output device 1640 includes a keyboard and / or pointing device. In example implementations, the input / output device 1640 includes a display unit 1660 for displaying graphical user interfaces.

[0186] Certain features described can be implemented in digital electronic circuitry, or in computer hardware, firmware, software, or in combinations of them. The apparatus can be implemented in a computer program product tangibly embodied in an information carrier, e.g., in a machine-readable storage device for execution by a programmable processor; and method steps can be performed by a programmable processor executing a program of instructions to perform functions of the described implementations by operating on input data and generating output. The described features can be implemented advantageously in one or more computer programs that are executable on a programmable system including at least one programmable processor coupled to receive data and instructions from, and to transmit data and instructionsAttorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01 to, a data storage system, at least one input device, and at least one output device. A computer program is a set of instructions that can be used, directly or indirectly, in a computer to perform a certain activity or bring about a certain result. A computer program can be written in any form of programming language, including compiled or interpreted languages, and it can be deployed in any form, including as a stand-alone program or as a module, component, subroutine, or other unit suitable for use in a computing environment.

[0187] Suitable processors for the execution of a program of instructions include, by way of example, both general and special purpose microprocessors, and the sole processor or one of multiple processors of any kind of computer. Generally, a processor will receive instructions and data from a read-only memory, a random-access memory, or both. The essential elements of a computer are a processor for executing instructions and one or more memories for storing instructions and data. Generally, a computer will also include, or be operatively coupled to communicate with, one or more mass storage devices for storing data files; such devices include magnetic disks, such as internal hard disks and removable disks; magneto-optical disks; and optical disks. Storage devices suitable for tangibly embodying computer program instructions and data include all forms of non-volatile memory, including, by way of example, semiconductor memory devices such as EPROM, EEPROM, and flash memory devices; magnetic disks such as internal hard disks and removable disks; magnetooptical disks; and CD-ROM and DVD-ROM disks. The processor and the memory can be supplemented by, or incorporated in, ASICs (application-specific integrated circuits).

[0188] To provide for interaction with a user, the features can be implemented on a computer having a display device such as a CRT (cathode ray tube) or LCD (liquid crystal display) monitor for displaying information to the user and a keyboard and a pointing device such as a mouse or a trackball by which the user can provide input to the computer. Additionally, such activities can be implemented via touchscreen flat panel displays and other appropriate mechanisms.

[0189] The features can be implemented in a control system (such as flow control system 199) that includes a back-end component, such as a data server, or that includes a middleware component, such as an application server or an Internet server, or that includes a front-end component, such as a client computer having a graphical user interface or an Internet browser, or any combination of them. The components of the system can be connected by any form or medium of digital data communication, such as a communication network. Examples of communication networks include a local area network (“LAN”), a wide area networkAttorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01(“WAN”), peer-to-peer networks (having ad-hoc or static members), grid computing infrastructures, and the Internet.

[0190] The term “couple” and variants of it, such as “coupled,” “couples,” and “coupling” as used in this description, are intended to include indirect and direct connections unless otherwise indicated. For example, if a first device is coupled to a second device, that coupling may be through a direct connection or through an indirect connection via other devices and connections. Similarly, if the first device is communicatively coupled to the second device, communication may be through a direct connection or through an indirect connection via other devices and connections. In particular, a fluid coupling means that a direct or indirect pathway is provided for a fluid to flow between two fluidly coupled devices. Also, a thermal coupling means that a direct or indirect pathway is provided for heat energy to flow between the thermally coupled devices.

[0191] While this specification contains many specific implementation details, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of what may be claimed, but rather as descriptions of features specific to particular implementations. Certain features that are described in this specification in the context of separate implementations can also be implemented in combination in a single implementation. Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single implementation can also be implemented in multiple implementations separately or in any suitable sub-combination. Moreover, although features may be described above as acting in certain combinations and even initially claimed as such, one or more features from a claimed combination can in some cases be excised from the combination, and the claimed combination may be directed to a sub-combination or variation of a sub-combination.

[0192] Similarly, while operations are depicted in the drawings in a particular order, this should not be understood as requiring that such operations be performed in the particular order shown or in sequential order, or that all illustrated operations be performed, to achieve desirable results. In certain circumstances, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. Moreover, the separation of various system components in the implementations described above should not be understood as requiring such separation in all implementations, and it should be understood that the described program components and systems can generally be integrated together in a single software product or packaged into multiple software products.

[0193] A first example embodiment of the present disclosure describes a universal desalination architecture including a desalination system. The desalination system includes an evaporation module configured to receive saline liquid and generate water vapor, theAttorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01 evaporation module comprising at least one evaporative structure selected from a forced-air sponge roller assembly, a heated-air winnowing chamber, or a solar-heated evaporative surface; a vapor-induction subsystem configured to promote upward transport of the generated vapor; a condensation subsystem configured to condense the vapor into liquid fresh water; and a mineral-collection subsystem configured to remove salt or mineral particulates produced during evaporation.

[0194] Combinable aspects of the first example embodiment include:

[0195] -the vapor-induction subsystem comprises a rising thermal plume.

[0196] -the vapor-induction subsystem comprises one or more airflow generators.

[0197] -the condensation subsystem comprises vertically oriented condenser tubes arranged in a hexagonal array.

[0198] -the condenser tubes comprise an internal surface texture configured to reduce droplet adhesion.

[0199] -the condensation subsystem further comprises a vibratory actuator configured to dislodge droplets.

[0200] -the evaporation module resides within a geodesic enclosure.

[0201] -the enclosure comprises a plurality of Fresnel lens panels configured to focus sunlight toward an interior region.

[0202] -the evaporation module comprises a humidity-driven convection loop.

[0203] -the mineral-collection subsystem comprises a vacuum-driven dust collector.

[0204] -the mineral-collection subsystem comprises separate outlets for salt and calcium-carbonate particulates.

[0205] -the condensation subsystem comprises a cooling manifold.

[0206] -the condensation subsystem comprises a working-fluid cooling loop.

[0207] -the evaporation module comprises one or more nozzles configured to produce brine droplets between approximately 10 and 150 microns.

[0208] -the evaporation module comprises at least one heated-air inlet.

[0209] -the evaporation module comprises a forced-air sponge-belt evaporator.

[0210] -the evaporation module comprises a heated-air winnowing chamber.

[0211] -the evaporation module comprises a solar-heated plate.

[0212] -the system further comprises a recirculating brine loop.

[0213] -the condensation subsystem comprises stacked condenser modules.

[0214] -the evaporation module is modular and configured for parallel operation with additional evaporation modules.Attorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01

[0215] A second example embodiment of the present disclosure describes heated-air winnowing desalination embodied in a desalination apparatus that includes at least one heated airstream generator; at least one nozzle configured to atomize saline liquid into droplets suspended in the heated airstream; a winnowing chamber configured to evaporate water from the droplets while airborne; a particulate-collection subsystem; and a condensation subsystem positioned to receive vapor from the chamber.

[0216] Combinable aspects of the second example embodiment include:

[0217] -droplet size within an exemplary range, such as approximately 10-40 microns.

[0218] -airstream generator comprising a solar-heated duct.

[0219] -airstream generator comprising an electrically powered airflow assembly.

[0220] -winnowing chamber comprising staged thermal zones.

[0221] -winnowing chamber comprising a helical airflow pattern.

[0222] -particulate collection comprising a vacuum inlet.

[0223] -particulate collection comprising a cyclone separator.

[0224] -injection of CO2 to yield calcium-carbonate formation.

[0225] -airstream temperature maintained between 200-600°F.

[0226] -nozzle oriented to inhibit scale accumulation on chamber surfaces.

[0227] -heated airstream produced at least in part by concentrated solar energy.

[0228] -winnowing chamber comprising anti -turbulence baffles.

[0229] -multiple circumferentially arranged nozzles.

[0230] -residence time modulated by airflow rate.

[0231] -vapor delivered to vertical condenser tubes.

[0232] -condensed water gravity-fed to a reservoir.

[0233] -automated particulate extraction.

[0234] -use of industrial waste heat to warm the airstream.

[0235] -recirculation of heated airstream.

[0236] -continuous mineral harvesting.

[0237] A third example embodiment of the present disclosure describes solar Fresnel geodesic dome desalination embodied in a solar-assisted desalination system that includes a geodesic dome comprising polygonal openings; Fresnel lens panels disposed in at least some of the openings; heat-absorbing conduits or thermal-mass structures positioned to receive focused sunlight; an evaporation subsystem thermally coupled thereto; and a condensation subsystem.

[0238] Combinable aspects of the third example embodiment include:Attorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01

[0239] -conduits comprising a thermally conductive material.

[0240] -thermal mass comprising a high heat-capacity material.

[0241] -thermal mass sized to retain nighttime heat.

[0242] -dome comprising adjustable ventilation ports.

[0243] -evaporation via winnowing chamber.

[0244] -evaporation via sponge-belt assembly.

[0245] -evaporation via solar-heated surface.

[0246] -condenser located above dome interior.

[0247] -condenser cooled by ambient night air.

[0248] -conduits containing water, oil, or molten salt.

[0249] -lenses arranged in triangular or hexagonal openings.

[0250] -interior reflective lining.

[0251] -humidity-circulation loop.

[0252] -conduits forming spiral heat-transfer path.

[0253] -dome comprising translucent polymer panels.

[0254] A fourth example embodiment of the present disclosure describes a hex-tube condenser assembly embodied in a condensation apparatus that includes a plurality of vertical condenser tubes arranged in a hexagonal array; a surface treatment configured to reduce droplet adhesion; a vibratory actuator; and a collection basin.

[0255] Combinable aspects of the fourth example embodiment include:

[0256] -tubes comprising a material with adequate structural stability.

[0257] -surface treatment comprising micro-texturing.

[0258] -surface treatment comprising a hydrophobic coating.

[0259] -vibratory actuator comprising a piezoelectric element.

[0260] -actuator operating intermittently.

[0261] -tubes arranged in stacked modules.

[0262] -tubes including internal fins.

[0263] -cooling provided by external airflow.

[0264] -tubes taper toward lower ends.

[0265] -upward airflow through tubes.

[0266] -array replaceable as a unit.

[0267] -basin inclined toward an outlet.

[0268] A fifth example embodiment of the present disclosure describes a sponge-belt evaporator embodied in a desalination system that includes a continuous belt supporting spongeAttorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01 or foam rollers; a drive mechanism; one or more fans directing airflow across the rollers; condenser array; and a fresh-water collector.

[0269] Combinable aspects of the fifth example embodiment include:

[0270] -drive mechanism comprising a fluid-driven turbine.

[0271] -rollers comprising a porous material.

[0272] -staged airflow zones.

[0273] -condenser array comprising hexagonal tubes.

[0274] -vibratory release mechanism.

[0275] -gravity-fed water outlet.

[0276] -system located within a geodesic enclosure.

[0277] -solar preheating of inlet brine.

[0278] -variable belt speed.

[0279] -antimicrobial roller treatment.

[0280] -adjustable louvers for airflow.

[0281] -modular evaporator construction.

[0282] A sixth example embodiment of the present disclosure describes mineral recovery from aerosolized brine embodied in a mineral-recovery system that includes a chamber configured to aerosolize brine; an airflow subsystem; a particulate-collection subsystem; and a condensation subsystem.

[0283] Combinable aspects of the sixth example embodiment include:

[0284] -heated airflow.

[0285] -CO2 introduction to form calcium carbonate.

[0286] -particle separation by size.

[0287] -screw-type discharge.

[0288] -condenser comprising vertical tubes.

[0289] -internal airflow baffles.

[0290] -droplets sized within an exemplary range, such as approximately 10-80 microns.

[0291] -multi-stage fans.

[0292] -vacuum-based particle extraction.

[0293] -continuous mineral recovery.

[0294] A seventh example embodiment of the present disclosure describes a desalination method that includes evaporating saline liquid using an evaporation module according to any preceding system claim, transporting vapor to a condensation subsystem,Attorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01 condensing the vapor, and collecting fresh water.

[0295] Combinable aspects of the seventh example embodiment include:

[0296] -evaporation via heated-air winnowing.

[0297] -evaporation via sponge-belt assembly.

[0298] -evaporation via solar-heated conduit.

[0299] -using Fresnel-lens-focused solar energy.

[0300] -using a hex-tube condenser.

[0301] -collecting salt by vacuum extraction.

[0302] -forming calcium carbonate by CO2 injection.

[0303] -recirculating brine.

[0304] -modulating airflow to adjust evaporation rate.

[0305] -harvesting minerals continuously.

[0306] -operating within a geodesic enclosure.

[0307] -using thermal mass for nighttime operation.

[0308] Each of the example embodiments 1-7 can include one, some, or all of the following features:

[0309] -a material of construction is selected from polymers, metals, composites, ceramics, or combinations thereof.

[0310] -components are modular.

[0311] -airflow, thermal flow, and fluid flow are electronically controlled.

[0312] -mineral outputs include salt and calcium carbonate.

[0313] -a geodesic enclosure.

[0314] -solar and thermal inputs are combined.

[0315] -capable of off-grid operation.

[0316] -configured for continuous or batch mode.

[0317] -at least one process is enhanced by concentrated sunlight.

[0318] An eighth example embodiment of the present disclosure describes a desalination apparatus that includes a funnel-shaped evaporation surface comprising a thermally conductive structure; a plurality of heat-transfer conduits thermally coupled to the evaporation surface; a working-fluid circulation loop configured to transport thermal energy to the conduits; a heat exchanger configured to receive heat from an industrial exhaust source and transfer the heat to the working fluid; and a condensation subsystem positioned to receive vapor generated at the evaporation surface.

[0319] Combinable aspects of the eighth example embodiment include:Attorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01

[0320] -the working fluid comprises a thermally stable fluid.

[0321] -the working fluid is heated to a temperature between approximately 200°F and 700°F.

[0322] -the heat-transfer conduits comprise a material having thermal conductivity suitable for evaporation enhancement.

[0323] -the condensation subsystem comprises a cooled hood positioned above the evaporation surface.

[0324] -the funnel-shaped surface comprises a structurally rigid material.

[0325] -crystallized mineral solids accumulate at a lower region of the funnel.

[0326] -the condensation subsystem further comprises a heat-exchange fluid circulating through one or more cooling channels.

[0327] -the industrial exhaust source comprises a rotary kiln.

[0328] -the industrial exhaust source comprises a lime kiln.

[0329] -the industrial exhaust source comprises a furnace or combustion stack.

[0330] -the funnel comprises a removable mineral-collection outlet.

[0331] -the evaporation surface has a textured finish to promote thin-film spreading.

[0332] -the working-fluid loop comprises valves to regulate thermal delivery.

[0333] -the condensation subsystem comprises a vertical tube structure.

[0334] -the condensation subsystem comprises a hexagonal tube array.

[0335] -the evaporation surface is insulated beneath its conductive structure.

[0336] -the system is mounted on a support frame.

[0337] -the conduits are arranged in a serpentine or spiral configuration.

[0338] -brine is applied to the evaporation surface as a controlled thin film.

[0339] -the apparatus is modular and configured for parallel operation with additional funnel evaporators.

[0340] A ninth example embodiment of the present disclosure describes a desalination system that includes a heated evaporation funnel; a convection-enhancing chamber surrounding at least a portion of the funnel; a condensing hood positioned above the chamber; and a mineral outlet located at a lower region of the funnel.

[0341] Combinable aspects of the ninth example embodiment include:

[0342] -the chamber includes internal baffles configured to shape airflow.

[0343] -airflow through the chamber is induced by temperature gradients.

[0344] -airflow is enhanced by at least one fan.

[0345] -the condensing hood comprises cooling fins.Attorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01

[0346] -the hood is water-cooled or air-cooled.

[0347] -the chamber comprises insulation.

[0348] -the chamber includes at least one transparent inspection panel.

[0349] -airflow enters the chamber through a lower inlet.

[0350] -the hood is removable.

[0351] -the mineral outlet comprises a scraper assembly.

[0352] -the outlet further comprises a vibration element.

[0353] -the funnel is supported by a modular frame.

[0354] -the chamber geometry is configured to accelerate convection.

[0355] -the chamber is sealed except for controlled ventilation ports.

[0356] A tenth example embodiment of the present disclosure describes a desalination array that includes a plurality of funnel-shaped evaporators; a shared working-fluid loop configured to distribute industrial waste heat to the evaporators; and a shared or distributed condensation subsystem configured to receive vapor from the evaporators.

[0357] Combinable aspects of the tenth example embodiment include:

[0358] -funnels arranged radially.

[0359] -funnels arranged linearly.

[0360] -shared manifold delivering working fluid to each funnel.

[0361] -bypass valves configured to modulate heat flow.

[0362] -each funnel comprising an independent condenser.

[0363] -multiple condensers feeding a shared reservoir.

[0364] -thermal insulation surrounding the array.

[0365] -funnels configured as removable modules.

[0366] -funnels operating at different temperatures.

[0367] -an array mounted on a structural support frame.

[0368] -the array configured for expansion by adding additional funnels.

[0369] -shared control circuitry for thermal management.

[0370] -array comprising both evaporation and mineral-harvesting subsystems.

[0371] An eleventh example embodiment of the present disclosure describes a method of desalination that includes receiving industrial heat in a heat exchanger; transferring the heat to a working fluid; delivering the heated working fluid to one or more evaporation funnels; distributing a thin film of saline liquid across each funnel surface; evaporating water from the saline film; and condensing the resulting vapor.

[0372] Combinable aspects of the eleventh example embodiment include:Attorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01

[0373] -industrial heat received from a rotary kiln.

[0374] -industrial heat received from a lime kiln.

[0375] -industrial heat received from a furnace or combustion exhaust.

[0376] -saline liquid is applied to the evaporation surface using a spray nozzle, perforated distributor, gravity-fed outlet, or any liquid-dispersion structure configured to form thin film

[0377] -salt collected at a lower mineral outlet.

[0378] -condenser comprising a cooled hood.

[0379] -working-fluid flow controlled by valves to regulate heat delivery.

[0380] -multiple funnels operated simultaneously.

[0381] -minerals harvested continuously during operation.

[0382] A twelfth example embodiment of the present disclosure describes a carbon- capture system that includes a geodesic enclosure; a plurality of vertically oriented tubes having a polygonal cross-section; at least one mister fan configured to introduce CCh-bearing droplets or airflow into the tubes; a photosynthetic medium disposed within the tubes; and a collection subsystem configured to receive biomass or liquid effluent from the tubes.

[0383] Combinable aspects of the twelfth example embodiment include:

[0384] -tubes comprise a transparent or translucent structural material.

[0385] -tubes comprise removable modules.

[0386] -tubes comprise internal surfaces configured to promote droplet adhesion or flow.

[0387] -mister fan is configured to produce droplets within an exemplary range, such as approximately 20-200 microns.

[0388] -airflow through the tubes is directed downward.

[0389] -airflow through the tubes is directed upward.

[0390] -biomass settles by gravity toward the collection subsystem.

[0391] -biomass is removed via a valve or drainage port.

[0392] -CO2 concentration is actively sensed and adjusted.

[0393] -Fresnel lenses are mounted within the geodesic enclosure.

[0394] -reflective internal surfaces are provided on the tubes to enhance illumination.

[0395] -the geodesic enclosure regulates humidity.

[0396] -the tubes are arranged in multi-tier vertical arrays.

[0397] -supplemental nutrient injection is provided.

[0398] -airflow is pulsed to enhance gas-liquid exchange.Attorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01

[0399] -microbubble aeration is provided.

[0400] -droplet size is controlled by variable fan speed.

[0401] -the enclosure includes thermal-control features.

[0402] -the photosynthetic medium comprises algae selected from Chlorella, Spirulina, Nannochlor opsis, or combinations thereof.

[0403] A thirteenth example embodiment of the present disclosure describes an illumination subsystem for a photobioreactor that includes one or more optical elements selected from prisms, mirrors, reflective surfaces, or concentrator lenses; and a control subsystem configured to route sunlight or other light into vertical reactor tubes.

[0404] Combinable aspects of the thirteenth example embodiment include:

[0405] -prism orientation is adjusted by an actuator.

[0406] -sunlight is concentrated between approximately 1.5x and 4* ambient levels.

[0407] -optical elements distribute light to shaded interior regions.

[0408] -Fresnel lenses provide primary light concentration.

[0409] -reflective materials enhance light redirection.

[0410] -light distribution is sensor-responsive.

[0411] -distribution is adjusted throughout the day based on solar position.

[0412] -optical surfaces include anti -reflective coatings.

[0413] -redirected light enters lower portions of reactor tubes.

[0414] -reflective films line interior surfaces of the geodesic enclosure.

[0415] -optical components are modular.

[0416] A fourteenth example embodiment of the present disclosure describes solar- heated DAC systems with a Fresnel dome that are implemented as a carbon-capture system that includes a geodesic dome comprising Fresnel lens panels; thermal-mass conduits positioned to receive focused sunlight; a photosynthetic reactor vessel thermally coupled to the conduits; and an airflow subsystem configured to enhance absorption of CO2 by the reactor vessel.

[0417] Combinable aspects of the fourteenth example embodiment include:

[0418] -conduits comprising a thermally conductive structural material.

[0419] -thermal mass comprising a material having high heat capacity.

[0420] -thermal mass configured to retain heat during nighttime operation.

[0421] -airflow subsystem comprising one or more mister fans.

[0422] -Fresnel lenses arranged in triangular or polygonal dome openings.

[0423] -a reactor vessel comprising a removable structure.Attorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01

[0424] -optical routing enhancing photosynthetic activity.

[0425] -dome comprising adjustable ventilation openings.

[0426] -thermal mass sized to buffer diurnal temperature variations.

[0427] -airflow subsystem configured to regulate humidity.

[0428] -internal airflow following a convection loop.

[0429] -CO2 uptake monitored via sensors.

[0430] -biomass harvested continuously or in batches.

[0431] -a reactor vessel comprising UV-stabilized material.

[0432] - a nutrient-recycling subsystem.

[0433] A fifteenth example embodiment of the present disclosure describes CO2 microdroplet absorption column systems implemented in a carbon-absorption apparatus that includes at least one droplet-generation element configured to produce microdroplets of aqueous medium; an airflow generator configured to entrain CCh-bearing air into a droplet plume; a vertical reaction column configured to facilitate contact between droplets and CO2- bearing air; and a collection subsystem configured to recover biomass or processed liquid from the column.

[0434] Combinable aspects of the fifteenth example embodiment include:

[0435] -droplets comprising nutrient-enriched aqueous medium.

[0436] -droplet size within an exemplary range, such as approximately 10-120 microns.

[0437] -CO2 concentration measured at an inlet of the reaction column.

[0438] -reaction column comprising internal baffles.

[0439] -liquid recirculated after separation.

[0440] -biomass settling into a lower collection tank.

[0441] -airflow pulsed to improve absorption.

[0442] -column walls including anti-fouling surfaces.

[0443] -droplet generator comprising one or more ultrasonic transducers.

[0444] -temperature within column controlled.

[0445] -airflow generator positioned above the column.

[0446] -column configured as a modular component.

[0447] -droplet coalescence enhanced by vibration.

[0448] -biomass filtered from collected liquid.

[0449] -CO2 uptake efficiency monitored.

[0450] -airflow heated or warmed by solar input.Attorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01

[0451] -droplets introduced counter-flow relative to direction of air.

[0452] -droplets introduced co-flow.

[0453] -absorption column integrated within a geodesic enclosure.

[0454] -apparatus configured for continuous CO2 capture and biomass removal.

[0455] A sixteenth example embodiment of the present disclosure describes a DAC process implemented in a method of carbon capture that includes introducing CCh-bearing air into a photobioreactor or reaction column; exposing the air to a photosynthetic medium or microdroplet suspension; and collecting biomass or processed liquid.

[0456] Combinable aspects of the sixteenth example embodiment include:

[0457] -enhanced illumination using optical routing.

[0458] -CO2 absorption occurs within a geodesic dome.

[0459] -microdroplets are generated to increase gas-liquid interface area.

[0460] -convection enhances CO2 distribution.

[0461] Example embodiments 1-16 can also include one, some, or all of the following aspects:

[0462] -materials are selected from polymers, metals, composites, ceramics, or equivalents thereof.

[0463] -components are modular and replaceable.

[0464] -environmental conditions are electronically monitored.

[0465] -solar, thermal, and airflow inputs are combined.

[0466] -processes are configured for continuous or batch operation.

[0467] -operable in off-grid or hybrid-power environments.

[0468] -materials for conduits, tubes, vessel bodies, lenses, or optical components is exemplary and non-limiting, and may include polymers, metals, composites, ceramics, glasses, fluids, phase-change media, or combinations thereof.

[0469] A number of embodiments of the disclosure have been described. Nevertheless, it will be understood that various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, other embodiments are within the scope of the following claims. Further modifications and alternative embodiments of various aspects will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of this description. Accordingly, this description is to be construed as illustrative only. It is to be understood that the forms shown and described herein are to be taken as examples of embodiments. Elements and materials may be substituted for those illustrated and described herein, parts and processes may be reversed, and certainAttorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01 features may be utilized independently, all as would be apparent to one skilled in the art after having the benefit of this description. Changes may be made in the elements described herein without departing from the spirit and scope as described in the following claims.

Claims

Attorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W01WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A system for gravity-driven seawater intake and desalination, comprising: a first turbine powered by elevated seawater and configured to drive rollers that rotate foam-sponge roller belts carrying foam-sponge rollers configured to absorb seawater; one or more fans configured to fan the seawater in the foam-sponge rollers to generate at least desalinated water vapor; a second turbine configured to be driven by the elevated seawater to generate electricity to power the one or more fans; and condensation collector tubes configured to condense the desalinated water vapor into desalinated water.

2. The system of claim 1, comprising at least one pump configured to pump seawater from a seawater source to an elevation.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the condensation collector tubes comprise rows of vertical hexagon-shaped collection tubes opened at tops and bottoms.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the first turbine and the second turbine are in series or in parallel.

5. The system of claim 1, comprising at least one centrifugal pump for pumping the desalinated water to another location.

6. The system of claim 1, comprising at least one seawater return for returning the seawater to at least one seawater source.

7. A system for wind-propelled seawater intake and evaporation, comprising: at least one first turbine powered by at least one windmill and configured to drive roller belts that rotate foam-sponge rollers configured to absorb seawater; one or more fans configured to fan the seawater in the foam-sponge rollers to generate at least desalinated water vapor; at least one bottom roller configured to rotate the foam-sponge rollers and cause the foam-sponge rollers to pick up seawater and raise the seawater to an elevation above the one or more fans; and condensation collector tubes configured to condense the desalinated water vapor into desalinated water.Attorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W018. The system of claim 7, wherein the one or more fans is driven by one or more of the first turbine, stored power generated by the first turbine, or at least one second turbine.

9. The system of claim 7, comprising at least one facility enclosure enclosing at least the one or more fans and the condensation collector tubes, wherein the at least one facility enclosure is configured to protect at least the one or more fans and the condensation collector tubes from forces external to the at least one facility enclosure, wherein the forces include at least humidity, wind, and temperature.

10. The system of claim 9, wherein the at least one facility enclosure comprises at least a geodesic dome structure.

11. The system of claim 7, comprising at least one collector pan configured to collect the desalinated water that falls from the condensation collector tubes.

12. The system of claim 11, comprising at least one centrifugal pump for pumping the desalinated water from the collector pan to at least one other location.

13. The system of claim 11, comprising at least one pipe connected to the collector pan and configured to disperse the desalinated water to at least one other location.

14. A system for seawater intake, evaporation, and collection-at-height comprising: at least one first turbine powered by falling seawater and configured to drive rollers that rotate foam-sponge roller belts carrying foam-sponge rollers configured to absorb some of the falling seawater; one or more fans configured to fan seawater in the foam-sponge rollers to generate at least desalinated water vapor; condensation collector tubes configured to condense the desalinated water vapor into desalinated water; and at least one collector pan configured to collect the desalinated water that falls from the condensation collector tubes.

15. The system of claim 14, wherein the one or more fans is driven by one or more of the first turbine, stored power generated by the first turbine, or at least one second turbine.Attorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W0116. The system of claim 14, comprising at least one facility enclosure enclosing at least the one or more fans and the condensation collector tubes, wherein the at least one facility enclosure is configured to protect at least the one or more fans and the condensation collector tubes from forces external to the at least one facility enclosure, wherein the forces include at least humidity, temperature, and wind.

17. The system of claim 16, wherein the at least one facility enclosure comprises at least a geodesic dome structure.

18. The system of claim 14, comprising at least one pipe connected to the collector pan and configured to disperse, using at least gravity, the desalinated water to at least one other location.

19. The system of claim 14, wherein the condensation collector tubes are arranged in at least one substantially interlocking hexagon pattern.

20. The system of claim 19, comprising at least one percussive vibrator configured to percussively vibrate the condensation collector tubes and accelerate a falling rate of the desalinated water.

21. The system of claim 14, wherein the foam-sponge rollers comprise at least one rotating group of sponge belt fan units.Attorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W0122. A brine management system for processing seawater comprising: an enclosed facility comprising at least one geodesic dome shape; one or more fans positioned inside the enclosed facility and arranged at least alongside regions and a top region of the enclosed facility, wherein the one or more fans is configured to raise the seawater and generate, through evaporation of the seawater, desalinated water vapor and salt dust; one or more solar-powered heaters configured to heat the seawater to increase evaporation rates of the seawater below the top region; one or more condensation collector tubes configured to condense the desalinated water vapor into desalinated water; at least one salt vacuum positioned inside a subfloor of the enclosed facility and configured to vacuum the salt dust through holes of the subfloor; and at least one collector pan configured to collect the desalinated water that falls from the condensation collector tubes.

23. The brine management system of claim 22, wherein the condensation collector tubes include micro-etched edges configured to reduce water adhesion of and increase droplet creation from the desalinated water vapor.

24. The brine management system of claim 22, comprising at least one percussive vibrator configured to percussively vibrate the condensation collector tubes and accelerate a falling rate of the desalinated water.

25. The brine management system of claim 22, comprising at least one pump configured to pump the seawater to the solar-powered heaters.

26. The brine management system of claim 22, comprising: an air exhaust system positioned in the subfloor and configured to remove excess air from the brine management system; and a water removal system configured to remove the desalinated water from the brine management system.

27. The brine management system of claim 22, wherein tunable variables of the brine management system configured to control angles, velocities, and temperature of a micron-sized seawater-mister / fan combination include at least nozzle micron size, water pressure, fan wind speed, fan angle, and vacuum force and size.Attorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W0128. The brine management system of claim 22, wherein the condensation collector tubes, misters, and the one or more fans is arranged in a stadium style arrangement.

29. A brine management and carbon collection system, comprising: an enclosed facility comprising a geodesic dome shape and configured to process brine and carbon in seawater; one or more fans positioned inside the enclosed facility and arranged at least alongside regions and a top region of the enclosed facility, wherein the one or more fans is configured to raise the seawater and generate, through evaporation of the seawater, calcium carbonate, desalinated water vapor, and salt dust; condensation collector tubes configured to condense the desalinated water vapor into desalinated water; calcium carbonate vacuums configured to vacuum the calcium carbonate; at least one salt vacuums configured to vacuum the salt dust; and at least one collector pan configured to collect the desalinated water that falls from the condensation collector tubes.

30. The brine management and carbon collection system of claim 29, comprising solar-powered heaters configured to heat the seawater to increase evaporation rates of the seawater below the top region.

31. The brine management and carbon collection system of claim 29, comprising at least one percussive vibrator configured to percussively vibrate the condensation collector tubes and accelerate a falling rate of the desalinated water.

32. The brine management and carbon collection system of claim 29, comprising Fresnel lenses arranged within triangles formed in hexagonal units of the enclosed facility, wherein the Fresnel lenses are configured to heat seawater in black tubing underneath the Fresnel lenses, wherein a quantity and a placement of the hexagonal units are based on available sunlight, and wherein some of the hexagonal units are enabled or disabled depending on season-based sunlight availability.Attorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W0133. A system for carbon direct air capture using algae, comprising: an enclosed facility comprising a geodesic dome shape and configured to process seawater and atmospheric air that comprises carbon dioxide, wherein the enclosed facility includes components configured to control at least one of light, temperature, humidity, or seawater intake; seawater mister fans configured to fan falling seawater in to generate at least desalinated water vapor; an algae farm and carbon dioxide capture unit hanging inside the enclosed facility and configured to grow algae and capture carbon from seawater vapor and air received in an air intake, wherein the algae farm comprises vertical hexagon-shaped collection tubes that are open at tops and bottoms; one or more solar-powered heaters configured to heat the seawater; one or more clear polyvinyl chloride (PVC) roof panels configured to allow sunlight into the enclosed facility; at least one collector pan configured to collect the algae that falls from the algae farm and carbon dioxide capture unit; and at least one seawater drain configured to drain seawater from the enclosed facility.

34. The system of claim 33, comprising mirrors and prisms configured to reflect light into bottom openings of the vertical hexagon- shaped collection tubes.

35. The system of claim 33, wherein the solar-powered heaters comprises magnifying lens and aerated concrete.

36. The system of claim 33 comprising at least one percussive vibrator configured to percussively vibrate the vertical hexagon-shaped collection tubes and accelerate a falling rate of the algae.Attorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W0137. A heat-recovery evaporation apparatus, comprising: a thermally conductive evaporation surface configured as a funnel-shaped griddle; a plurality of heat-transfer conduits disposed beneath and in thermal contact with the evaporation surface; a circulation loop configured to convey a heated working fluid selected from the group consisting of air, oil, water, molten salt, or mixtures thereof through the conduits; and an exhaust-gas heat exchanger configured to transfer heat from an industrial process to the working fluid, wherein heat from the working fluid maintains the evaporation surface at a temperature sufficient to evaporate saline feed introduced onto the surface.

38. The apparatus of claim 37, comprising a convection chamber surrounding the evaporation surface and a condensing hood configured to collect vapor condensed from the chamber.

39. The apparatus of claim 37, wherein the industrial process comprises a rotary kiln or lime furnace exhaust.

40. The apparatus of claim 37, wherein the circulation loop includes a pump, buffer tank, and bypass manifold to regulate flow and temperature.

41. The apparatus of claim 37, wherein solid salt is collected at a lower outlet of the funnel.

42. The apparatus of claim 37, wherein the working fluid comprises a thermal oil circulated at a temperature between about 350°F and 550°F.

43. A method of evaporating saline water using industrial waste heat, comprising: recovering heat from an exhaust-gas stream into a circulating working fluid; conveying the heated fluid through conduits in thermal contact with a funnel-shaped griddle; feeding saline water onto the griddle so that it flows toward a central outlet while evaporating; and collecting condensed vapor from above the griddle.

44. The method of claim 43, wherein the griddle is positioned within a convection chamber that enhances vapor flow toward a condenser.Attorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W0145. A system for carbon dioxide capture using desalination, comprising: a first enclosed facility comprising a geodesic dome shape and configured to process brine and carbon in seawater, wherein the first enclosed facility comprises: one or more fans positioned inside the first enclosed facility and arranged at least alongside regions and a top region of the first enclosed facility, wherein the one or more fans is configured to raise the seawater and generate, through evaporation of the seawater, calcium carbonate, desalinated water vapor, and salt dust; condensation collector tubes configured to condense the desalinated water vapor into desalinated water; one or more calcium carbonate vacuums configured to vacuum the calcium carbonate; one or more salt vacuums configured to vacuum the salt dust; and at least one collector pan configured to collect the desalinated water that falls from the condensation collector tubes; and a second enclosed facility comprising a geodesic dome shape and configured to process seawater and carbon-containing air, wherein the second enclosed facility includes components configured to control light, temperature, humidity, and seawater intake, and wherein the second enclosed facility comprises: seawater mister fans configured to fan falling seawater in to generate at least desalinated water vapor; an algae farm and carbon dioxide capture unit hanging inside the second enclosed facility and configured to grow algae and capture carbon from seawater vapor and air received in an air intake, wherein the algae farm comprises vertical hexagon-shaped collection tubes that are open at tops and bottoms; one or more solar-powered heaters configured to heat the seawater; clear PVC roof panels configured to allow sunlight into the second enclosed facility; at least one collector pan configured to collect the algae that falls from the algae farm and carbon dioxide capture unit; and at least one seawater drain configured to drain seawater from the second enclosed facility.Attorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W0146. A system for using wind power to power desalination of sea / brackish water, comprising: a first turbine powered by wind energy and configured to drive rollers that rotate foamsponge roller belts carrying foam-sponge rollers configured to absorb seawater; one or more solar-powered heaters configured to heat the seawater; one or more fans configured to fan the seawater in the foam-sponge rollers to generate at least desalinated water vapor; and condensation collector tubes configured to condense the desalinated water vapor into desalinated water.

47. A photobioreactor system, comprising: a vertical array of cultivation tubes, each cultivation tube comprising a volume configured to enclose a photosynthetic biofilm; a gantry system positioned above the vertical array of cultivation tubes, the gantry system comprising at least one a weighted plunger configured to move vertically through respective open inlets of the cultivation tubes and into the respective volumes of the cultivation tubes and to move horizontally above the respective open inlets of the cultivation tubes; a mesh screen conveyor belt positioned below respective open outlets of the cultivation tubes, the mesh screen conveyor belt configured to receive biomass grown from the photosynthetic biofilm and ejected from at least one volume by the at least one plunger; and a collection basin positioned under the mesh screen conveyor belt and configured to collect liquid extracted from the biomass through the mesh screen conveyor belt.

48. The photobioreactor system of claim 47, wherein the liquid comprises water.

49. The photobioreactor system of claim 47, wherein the at least one plunger is shaped to conform to an internal cross-section of the respective volumes of the cultivation tubes.

50. The photobioreactor system of claim 47, wherein each of the cultivation tubes in the vertical array of cultivation tubes comprises a clear cultivation tube having a hexagonal internal cross-section.

51. The photobioreactor system of claim 50, comprising an illumination system that includes a plurality of light sources.Attorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W0152. The photobioreactor system of claim 51, wherein each of the plurality of light sources comprises a vertical LED light bar.

53. The photobioreactor system of claim 51, wherein each of the plurality of light sources is positioned at an interstitial vertex of a plurality of interstitial vertices of the clear cultivation tube.

54. The photobioreactor system of claim 53, wherein the interstitial vertex is formed at an intersection of: two sides of a first clear cultivation tube in the vertical array of cultivation tubes; and one side of a second clear cultivation tube in the vertical array of cultivation tubes.

55. The photobioreactor system of claim 47, comprising a gas exchange system that includes: at least one air intake fan positioned to circulate ambient air from an ambient environment into an enclosure that houses the a vertical array of cultivation tubes; and at least one air exhaust fan positioned to circulate the ambient air from the enclosure to the ambient environment at a flow rate sufficient to generate a negative pressure in the enclosure and below the respective open inlets of the cultivation tubes.

56. The photobioreactor system of claim 55, comprising a water misting system configured to generate a nutrient water mist into the respective volumes of the cultivation tubes to enhance carbon dioxide contact with the photosynthetic biofilm.

57. The photobioreactor system of claim 56, wherein the circulation of ambient air at least partially causes the nutrient water mist to flow into the respective volumes of the cultivation tubes.Attorney Docket No. : 58927-0002W0158. The photobioreactor system of claim 56, comprising a closed-loop water management system that includes: a collection pan positioned beneath the mesh screen conveyor belt and configured to capture a liquid growth medium passed through the mesh screen conveyor belt; at least one wastewater filter in fluid communication with the collection pan and configured to remove particulates from the captured liquid growth medium to produce filtered liquid; and at least one pump and filtration unit configured to recirculate the filtered liquid back to the water misting system.

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