Multiple Batch System for Calcium Hydrogen Carbonate Remineralization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for remineralizing desalinated water, such as those using lime or limestone, are inefficient, require large equipment footprints, and can lead to pH shifts or corrosion issues, while also having high carbon footprints and requiring corrosive materials handling.
Innovation Solution
A multiple batch system comprising a master and slave batch line with dosing units, gas dosing inlets, mixing units, and tanks, allowing for the continuous preparation of a concentrated solution of calcium hydrogen carbonate, which is then used for remineralization, reducing equipment needs and environmental impact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If limestone bed filtration is used for remineralization, then calcium carbonate dissolution occurs, but the dissolution rate is slow and large equipment footprint is required
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the physical parameters of calcium carbonate from granular form to micronized powder form (particle size reduction). This parameter change dramatically increases the surface area to volume ratio, thereby accelerating the dissolution rate and allowing the process to occur rapidly in a compact mixing chamber rather than requiring large limestone beds
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses a slurry system where micronized calcium carbonate is suspended in water and pumped through the system. This hydraulic approach allows rapid transport and mixing of the reactants in a compact configuration, replacing the slow natural dissolution process of traditional limestone beds with a controlled slurry circulation system
2Quantity of substance
If lime process is used for remineralization, then calcium ions are produced, but high carbon dioxide footprint and corrosive material handling are required
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and removes the harmful byproduct (carbon dioxide emissions) from the remineralization process by replacing the lime-based chemistry with calcium carbonate-based chemistry. Calcium carbonate has a much lower carbon footprint when produced, and the process avoids the high CO2 emissions associated with lime production and the need to handle corrosive lime materials
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the chemical parameter from using lime (CaO) as the remineralization agent to using calcium carbonate (CaCO3). This chemical substitution fundamentally alters the carbon footprint of the process, as calcium carbonate production emits only 75 kg CO2 per tonne compared to 750 kg CO2 per tonne for lime production
3Productivity
If desalinated water is produced, then water recovery is achieved, but the water is highly reactive and causes corrosion due to low pH and lack of buffering salts
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces micronized calcium carbonate slurry as an intermediary substance that mediates between the aggressive desalinated water and the distribution system. The calcium carbonate dissolves to provide buffering capacity and raise pH, creating a protective effect that reduces corrosion without requiring extensive additional treatment
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the pH parameter and alkalinity parameter of the desalinated water through dissolution of calcium carbonate. This transforms the water from a highly corrosive state (low pH, no buffering) to a stable, non-corrosive state (elevated pH, adequate buffering capacity) suitable for distribution system compatibility
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient, economic, and ecological remineralization of desalinated or naturally soft water by preparing a solution of calcium hydrogen carbonate in a continuous process, improving water quality and reducing the carbon footprint and equipment requirements.
Implementation Method 1
injecting gaseous carbon dioxide and a slurry into the feed water, wherein the slurry comprises micronized calcium carbonate
Implementation Method 2
The water obtained by such processes is very soft and has a low pH value because of the lack of pH-buffering salts... it is necessary to remineralize the water
Implementation Method 3
at least one mixing unit provided with at least one inlet and at least one outlet
Implementation Method 4
a master batch line comprising in circular communication... at least one tank provided with at least one inlet and at least one outlet
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a multiple batch system for the preparation of a solution of calcium hydrogen carbonate and the use of such a dual batch system for the preparation of a solution of calcium hydrogen carbonate.