JP2010149071A - Apparatus and method for electrical discharge - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a discharge apparatus and a discharge method with high designing flexibility and without requiring size enlargement of an electric power source and capable of purifying or reforming gas phase and liquid phase. <P>SOLUTION: The discharge apparatus, comprising a pulse power source, a pair of electrodes connected to the pulse power source, and a dielectric which cover at least a portion of either one of the electrodes, keeps the distance of the pair of electrodes wider than 100 mm to make a liquid interpose between the dielectric and the other electrode in a manner that the liquid surface touches the dielectric, so that pulsed voltage is applied to the pair of electrodes. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a discharge device and a discharge method capable of purifying and modifying a gas phase and a liquid phase with a high degree of design freedom.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a technique is known in which a high voltage is applied between electrodes and water is reformed using a discharge generated in water (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 to 2).

  The water reforming apparatus described in Patent Document 1 treats an aqueous solution by an underwater discharge generated by generating a pulse electric field between two electrodes in the aqueous solution. Specifically, at least one electrode is coated with a dielectric material layer and the dielectric material completely isolates the aqueous solution from the aqueous solution during operation of the device. As a result, it is possible to use an electric field strength higher than that allowable in a conventional underwater discharge device, and to reform the water.

  The water reforming apparatus described in Patent Document 2 is designed to reform this water by discharge in water. As a specific configuration thereof, the water reforming apparatus is disposed so as to face the water in the discharge vessel in a non-contact state. An alternating pulse voltage having an asymmetrical waveform of positive and negative inversion is applied to the electrodes, and underwater discharge is performed by an electric field that is induced in the potential inversion and generated in the discharge vessel. And by this structure, water reforming is performed.

Special table 2001-507274 gazette JP 2001-9463 A

  In the water reforming apparatuses described in Patent Documents 1 and 2, it is necessary to strictly design and manage the distance between the pair of electrodes in order to perform discharge in water satisfactorily. For example, when changing the distance between the electrodes, it is necessary to change the voltage applied between the electrodes, or when the water reformer itself is enlarged, the distance between the electrodes increases. The degree of freedom in design was low, for example, because it was necessary to increase the size of the power supply for applying a voltage to the power supply, making it impractical.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a discharge device and a discharge method that enable purification and reforming of a gas phase and a liquid phase with a high degree of design freedom without requiring an increase in the size of a power source.

In order to solve the above-described problems, the discharge device of the present invention is:
Pulse power supply,
A pair of electrodes connected to the pulse power source;
A discharge device in which at least a part of one of the electrodes is covered with a dielectric,
The distance between the pair of electrodes is separated by more than 100 mm;
A liquid is interposed between the dielectric and the other electrode so that the liquid surface is in contact with the dielectric;
A pulse voltage is applied between the pair of electrodes.

In addition, the discharge method of the present invention,
Pulse power supply,
A pair of electrodes connected to the pulse power source;
A discharge device in which at least a part of one of the electrodes is covered with a dielectric,
The distance between the pair of electrodes is separated by more than 100 mm;
A liquid is interposed between the dielectric and the other electrode so that the liquid surface is in contact with the dielectric;
A pulse voltage is applied between the pair of electrodes.

Another aspect of the discharge device of the present invention is as follows.
Pulse power supply,
A pair of electrodes connected to the pulse power source;
A discharge device in which at least a part of both electrodes are covered with a dielectric,
The distance between the pair of electrodes is separated by more than 100 mm;
A liquid is interposed between the dielectric and the other electrode so that the liquid surface is in contact with the dielectric;
A pulse voltage is applied between the pair of electrodes.

Another aspect of the discharge method of the present invention is as follows:
Pulse power supply,
A pair of electrodes connected to the pulse power source;
A discharge device in which at least a part of both electrodes are covered with a dielectric,
The distance between the pair of electrodes is separated by more than 100 mm;
A liquid is interposed between the dielectric and the other electrode so that the liquid surface is in contact with the dielectric;
A pulse voltage is applied between the pair of electrodes.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the discharge apparatus and discharge method which enabled purification | cleaning and modification | reformation of a gaseous phase and a liquid phase with a high freedom degree of design, without requiring the enlargement of a power supply can be provided.

  DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, a discharge device and a discharge method according to each embodiment of the present invention and examples thereof will be described with reference to the drawings. Here, FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram showing a schematic configuration of the discharge device according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram for explaining the operation of the discharge device shown in FIG. It is. In these drawings, cross-sectional hatching is omitted in order to facilitate understanding of the configuration (hereinafter, the same applies to other drawings).

  The discharge device 100 according to the first embodiment of the present invention includes a pulse power source 101 and electrodes 102 and 103 connected to respective end portions of the pulse power source 101. The electrode 102 is covered with a dielectric 105, and water W is interposed as a liquid between the dielectric 105 and the other electrode 103. The interelectrode distance L means a linear distance connecting the surfaces of the electrodes 102 and 103 facing each other. Then, the voltage applied to each of the electrodes 102 and 103 via the pulse power source 101 causes the water W to have the same potential as the electrode 103 and a potential difference is generated between the electrode 102 and the water surface of the dielectric 105 and the water W. Is discharged between the dielectric 105 and the water W via the surrounding air A (see discharge AD (Atmospheric discharge) indicated by a dotted line in FIG. 1). Note that a high voltage pulse power supply is used as the pulse power supply 101.

  The electrode 103 not covered with the dielectric may be in any form as long as it is at least partially in contact with the water W.

  The water W is not limited to pure water, and may be any water such as tap water and sewage. Moreover, liquids other than water may be sufficient. Similarly, the air A is not limited to pure air but may be air containing odorous substances, pollutants, or water vapor, or may be a gas other than air. 1 and 2 are conceptual diagrams showing the essential configuration of the present invention, so that water W is interposed between the dielectric 105 covering one electrode 102 and the other electrode 103 as shown in the figure. Although a specific means is not shown, a mode that embodies this will be clarified in a later-described modification of the first embodiment.

  As described above, the technique of the present invention is a technique of discharging between the dielectric 105 and the water W through the surrounding air A at the portion where the dielectric 105 and the water surface of the water W are in contact with each other. This technology is completely different from the underwater discharge technology that discharges in water.

  In the prior art, in order to satisfactorily discharge in water, it is necessary to strictly design and manage the distance between a pair of electrodes. For example, when changing the distance between electrodes, the voltage applied between the electrodes Need to change. That is, when the size of the water reforming apparatus itself is increased, the distance between the electrodes is increased, so that it is necessary to increase the size of the power source for applying a voltage between the electrodes, which is not practical. Also, the degree of freedom in design is low, for example, the pair of electrodes needs to face each other or needs to be parallel.

  On the other hand, in the technique of the present invention, the dielectric 105 and the water W are discharged through the surrounding air A at the portion where the dielectric 105 and the water surface of the water W are in contact. For this reason, even if the distance between the pair of electrodes changes, it is not necessary to change the applied voltage, and even if the distance between the power sources becomes large, it is not necessary to increase the size of the power source for applying the voltage between the electrodes. Further, there is no need for the pair of electrodes to face each other or to be parallel, and the degree of freedom in design is very high. From this, the technology of the present invention can realize the enlargement of the water reforming apparatus without requiring the enlargement of the power source. In addition, since it is not necessary to strictly manage the arrangement of the electrodes facing each other in parallel or the like, the effects of the present invention such as purification and reforming of the gas phase and the liquid phase can be exhibited in various forms and fields.

  Since the apparatus of the present invention does not require an increase in the size of the power source, the effect can be exerted even in an apparatus having an inter-electrode distance that is not practical in the conventional underwater discharge apparatus. In addition, since the device of the present invention has a high degree of design freedom between electrodes, a device that cannot arrange electrodes in parallel and facing each other, such as a cylindrical pipe or a device around a water having various shapes, The present invention can be applied without complicating the apparatus even when the apparatus is complicated when it is arranged in parallel and facing each other.

As a large-sized device, for example, a “finger sterilization device” that generates sterilized water by discharging in a container filled with water and directly sterilizes attached bacteria and can be applied. In the case where a device having a certain size such as a “hand sterilizer” is inserted between the electrodes, the distance between the electrodes needs to be a certain size or more. For example, in the case of a “finger sterilization device”, in the case of general adults, when sterilizing bacteria adhering to the fingers, the distance between the electrodes should be adjusted so that hands can be inserted between the electrodes of the container containing the sterilizing water. It is necessary to have a sufficient degree (100 mm or more) for insertion. When applying the underwater discharge technology of the prior art to such a device, it is necessary to increase the applied voltage when the distance between the electrodes is increased in order to discharge between the electrodes. However, in that case, the power supply becomes extremely large in order to increase the applied voltage, and the size of the entire apparatus becomes very large. On the other hand, in the discharge device and discharge method according to the present invention, instead of discharging between the electrodes, the dielectric and water are discharged through the surrounding air at the portion where the dielectric and water are in contact with each other. Therefore, even if the distance between the electrodes is increased, it is not necessary to increase the voltage applied between the electrodes. Therefore, the apparatus can be enlarged without increasing the size of the power source. That is, the discharge device and the discharge method of the present invention can be applied even to a form that requires a wide opening between electrodes, such as a “finger sterilizer”.

Further, the discharge device and discharge method of applying the technology present invention, the mist containing the active species such as hydroxyl radicals (· OH) and hydrogen peroxide (H 2 _{O 2)} is generated. When these mists drift in the gas phase, the gas phase bacilli are sterilized. Further, since the mist contains active species, it is considered that the gas phase odor substance is also altered.
The underwater discharge as in the prior art is not intended to actively generate mist. Conventionally, there has been a technology for sterilizing spaces using mist containing oxidized species, but a discharge part for generating oxidized species and a part for application to fingers etc. for spraying as mist are provided separately. Moreover, since it was necessary to integrate them, the number of parts increased, and the device itself had to be enlarged. In addition, there is a problem that when the apparatus is enlarged for reasons such as increasing the application part, the power supply becomes large and is not realistic.
In addition, there has been a technology that sprays mist containing oxidizing species with a single device. However, since the electrode is exposed, the performance deteriorates due to electrode deterioration, and the electrode is porous, so the maintenance of the device Lack of cleanability.
In the discharge device and the discharge method of the present invention, since the discharge portion and the application portion to the fingers and the like can be integrally formed, the device can be reduced in size and simplified. In addition, as described above, since it is not necessary to increase the power supply even when the distance between the electrodes is increased, the size of the device becomes larger than necessary even when applied to a device that sterilizes fingers with mist. There is no.

Next, a discharge method using the discharge device 100 having such a configuration will be described. In carrying out this discharge method, a pulse voltage is first applied between the electrodes via the pulse power source 101 of the discharge device 100. As a result, at the portion where the dielectric 105 covering one electrode 102 is in contact with the water surface of the water W, a discharge occurs via the air A around the contact portion as shown in FIG. (See Discharge AD shown). By this discharge, for example, when the gas is air or oxygen, a part of the oxygen is a highly reactive substance such as ozone (O ₃ ), oxygen atom (O), superoxide anion (O ₂ ⁻ ) (called active species). )become. In addition, when the liquid is water, the active species react with water, or the water molecules are directly subjected to the action of discharge, and active species such as hydroxy radical (.OH) and hydrogen peroxide (H ₂ O ₂ ). Is also generated. When these active species drift in the gas phase or dissolve in the liquid phase, the gas phase and liquid phase substances can be oxidized (decomposed) or sterilized, and the gas phase and liquid phase can be purified and reformed. Conceivable. In particular, the dielectric (solid phase) is directly affected by the discharge, or the attached species (for example, dirt) is removed (purified) by the active species generated in the gas phase or liquid phase, or the surface is made hydrophilic. It is thought that such modification is made. In addition, odorous substances, pollutants, and bacilli contained in the gas phase and liquid phase are directly affected by the discharge and changed to other substances or sterilized to purify and modify the gas phase and liquid phase. It is thought that it may be performed.

In addition, this discharge generates mist containing active species such as hydroxy radicals (.OH) and hydrogen peroxide (H ₂ O ₂ ). When these mists drift in the gas phase, the gas phase bacilli are sterilized. Further, since the mist contains active species, it is considered that the gas phase odor substance is also altered.

In addition, when the gas is air, nitrogen oxides (NOx) are generated by discharge, and they dissolve in the liquid (water) to become nitric acid (HNO ₃ ), and the water becomes acidic water (the pH of water decreases). ) The effect can be expected.

  Even when the gas phase is other than air and the liquid phase is other than water, the molecules that form them are dissociated by discharge and become highly reactive substances (for example, radicals), enabling purification and reforming of the gas phase and liquid phase. Become.

  Further, since no discharge is caused from the electrode 103 immersed in water, corrosion and consumption of the electrode surface and accompanying dissolution in the liquid (contamination of the liquid) can be avoided.

  Then, the 1st modification of the discharge device 100 which concerns on 1st Embodiment mentioned above is demonstrated. FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram schematically showing a discharge device 110 according to a first modification of the discharge device 100 shown in FIG. In addition, about the structure equivalent to the above-mentioned 1st Embodiment, the code | symbol corresponding is attached | subjected and detailed description is abbreviate | omitted. Moreover, since the material of each component of the discharge device 110 according to this modification is the same as that of the discharge device 100 according to the first embodiment described above, detailed description thereof will be omitted.

  Unlike the discharge device 100 according to the first embodiment, the discharge device 110 according to the first modified example is not entirely covered with the dielectric 115 and is opposed to the other electrode 113. Only the region of the surface to be removed except for both ends thereof is covered with the dielectric 115. Water W is interposed between the dielectric 115 of the one electrode 112 and the other electrode 113. The interelectrode distance L means a linear distance connecting the surfaces of the electrodes 112 and 113 facing each other, and is greater than 100 mm. In the discharge device and discharge method according to the technique of the present invention, even if the distance between the electrodes is increased, the discharge can be satisfactorily performed without increasing the voltage applied between the electrodes. In this modified example as well, specific means for interposing the water W between the electrodes are not shown.

  Even with such a simple configuration in which the one electrode 112 is not entirely covered with the dielectric 115, the same effect as the discharge device 100 according to the first embodiment is produced.

  Specifically, by applying a pulse voltage to the electrodes 112 and 113 of the discharge device 110 via a pulse power supply 111 composed of a high-voltage pulse power supply, the dielectric 115 covering a part of one electrode 112 and the water W A discharge is generated via the air A between the dielectric 115 and the water W at the portion in contact with the water surface (see the discharge AD indicated by the dotted line in FIG. 3), and the same effect as in the first embodiment is obtained. Can do.

  Then, the 2nd modification of the 1st Embodiment of this invention is demonstrated. FIG. 4 is a side cross-sectional view schematically showing a discharge device 120 according to a second modification of the discharge device 100 shown in FIG. 1, and shows a configuration closer to an actual usage pattern as compared with FIG. Yes. In addition, about the structure equivalent to the discharge device 100,110 which concerns on the above-mentioned 1st Embodiment and its 1st modification, corresponding code | symbol is attached | subjected and detailed description is abbreviate | omitted.

  The discharge device 120 according to the second modified example is a modified example in which the discharge device 100 according to the first embodiment is embodied in a form more suitable for an actual usage mode. In the discharge device 120 according to the second modification, water W is stored in a container 124, and a part of one electrode 122 covered with a dielectric 125 and the other electrode whose periphery is not covered with a dielectric. A part of 123 is immersed in the water W. The interelectrode distance L means a linear distance connecting the surfaces of the electrodes 122 and 123 facing each other, and is greater than 100 mm. In the discharge device and discharge method according to the technique of the present invention, even if the distance between the electrodes is increased, the discharge can be satisfactorily performed without increasing the voltage applied between the electrodes. Even if the discharge device 120 according to the second modified example has such a configuration, it is possible to achieve the same effects as those of the first embodiment and the first modified example described above.

  Specifically, by applying a pulse voltage to each of the electrodes 122 and 123 via a pulse power source 121 composed of a high-voltage pulse power source, the dielectric 125 covering a part of one electrode 122 and the water surface of the water W are in contact with each other. In the portion, a discharge is generated between the dielectric 125 and the water W via the air A (see the discharge AD indicated by the dotted line in FIG. 4). By this discharge, the same effect as in the first embodiment can be obtained.

In addition to such effects, the inner wall 124a protruding from the water surface of the container 124 is oxidized or sterilized by the active species drifting in the air A in contact with the water surface, and the inner wall 124a is purified or modified. can do. In addition, it is expected that the container inner wall 124b is also purified or modified by oxidizing or sterilizing the container inner wall 124b with the active species or HNO ₃ dissolved in the water. As a result, by using the discharge device 120 according to this modified example, the water W, air A, and dielectric 125 in the container 124 are modified and purified, and the sterilization and modification of gas phase bacilli and odorous substances are performed. In addition, the purification of the container inner walls of the container inner walls 124a and 124b can be expected.

  Then, the 3rd modification of the 1st Embodiment of this invention is demonstrated. 5 is a discharge device 130 schematically showing a third modification of the discharge device shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 5 (a) is a top view of the device, and FIG. 5 (b) is a side sectional view of the device. A configuration closer to an actual usage pattern than that in FIG. 1 is shown. In addition, about the structure equivalent to the above-mentioned embodiment and its various modifications, corresponding code | symbol is attached | subjected and detailed description is abbreviate | omitted.

  The discharge device 130 according to the third modified example is similar to the discharge device 120 according to the second modified example described above, but the vessel 134 for storing the water W itself is made of a dielectric, and the pulse is made of a high-voltage pulse power source. A part of one electrode 132 connected to the power supply 131 is immersed in the water W accumulated in the container 130, and the other electrode 133 is provided on the outer periphery of the side wall of the container 134. The interelectrode distance L means a linear distance connecting the outer periphery of the electrode 132 and the inner surface of the electrode 133, and is greater than 100 mm. In the discharge device and discharge method according to the technique of the present invention, even if the distance between the electrodes is increased, the discharge can be satisfactorily performed without increasing the voltage applied between the electrodes. With the discharge device 130 according to the third modification having such a configuration, the container 134 serves as a dielectric that is in close contact with the electrode 133.

  With such a configuration, discharge is performed via the air A at the portion where the periphery of the container 134 and the water surface of the water W are in contact with each other. Quality and purification become possible.

  Subsequently, a discharge device according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram showing a schematic configuration of a discharge device 200 according to the second embodiment of the present invention. In addition, about the structure equivalent to the above-mentioned embodiment and each modification, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected and detailed description is abbreviate | omitted. The discharge device 200 according to the second embodiment has the same basic configuration as the discharge device 100 according to the first embodiment shown in FIG. 1, but is connected to both ends of a pulse power source 201 composed of a high-voltage pulse power source. Further, the configuration is different in that both electrodes 202 and 203 are completely covered with dielectrics 205 and 206. The interelectrode distance L means a linear distance connecting the surfaces of the electrodes 202 and 203 facing each other, and is greater than 100 mm. In the discharge device and discharge method according to the technique of the present invention, even if the distance between the electrodes is increased, the discharge can be satisfactorily performed without increasing the voltage applied between the electrodes. Note that FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram showing the essential configuration of the present invention. Therefore, specific means for interposing the water W between the dielectric 205 and the dielectric 206 as shown in the figure is not shown. A specific embodiment of the above will be clarified in a later-described modification of the second embodiment.

  Thus, by covering the electrodes 202 and 203 with the dielectrics 205 and 206, respectively, when a pulse voltage is applied to the electrodes 202 and 203 connected to both ends of the pulse power supply 201, the potential of the water W is changed between the electrodes 202 and 203. Between the electrode 202 and the water W and between the electrode 203 and the water W, the dielectrics 205 and 206 are in contact with each of the dielectrics 205 and 206 and the water surface of the water W. And water W are caused to discharge via air A (see discharge AD indicated by a dotted line in FIG. 6).

  Since the discharge device 200 according to the second embodiment has such a configuration, it is possible to further increase the number of places where discharge occurs between the water W and the dielectrics 205 and 206 through the air A, More active species can be generated by short-time discharge, and liquid phase, gas phase, solid phase can be purified or reformed by them or directly by discharge, and more efficient purification and reform can be promoted. be able to. In addition, more mist can be generated by short-time discharge, and the sterilization of gas phase bacilli and the modification of odorous substances can be promoted more efficiently.

  Subsequently, a discharge device according to a first modification of the second embodiment will be described. FIG. 7 is a conceptual diagram schematically showing a discharge device 210 according to a first modification of the discharge device 200 shown in FIG. In addition, about the structure equivalent to the discharge device which concerns on the above-mentioned 1st and 2nd embodiment and the various modifications of 1st Embodiment, corresponding code | symbol is attached | subjected and detailed description is abbreviate | omitted. Also in this modified example, specific means for interposing the water W between the electrodes are not shown.

  The discharge device 210 according to the first modification has a configuration corresponding to the discharge device 110 according to the first modification of the first embodiment shown in FIG. The structure is different from that of the first modification 110 of the first embodiment in that the dielectrics 215 and 216 are provided in close contact with each other, and the water W is interposed between the dielectrics. The interelectrode distance L means a linear distance connecting the surfaces of the electrodes 212 and 213 facing each other, and is greater than 100 mm. In the discharge device and discharge method according to the technique of the present invention, even if the distance between the electrodes is increased, the discharge can be satisfactorily performed without increasing the voltage applied between the electrodes. Similarly to the discharge device 200 according to the second embodiment described above, the discharge device 210 according to the first modification also uses the air A between the two dielectrics 215 and 216 and the water surface of the water W in contact with each other. Since discharge (see discharge AD shown by a dotted line in FIG. 7) can be generated in a wider area, the liquid phase, the gas phase, and the solid phase can be purified and reformed more efficiently. In addition, sterilization of gas phase bacilli and reforming of odorous substances can be carried out more efficiently.

  Subsequently, a discharge device according to a second modification of the second embodiment will be described. FIG. 8 is a side sectional view showing a discharge device 220 according to a second modification of the discharge device 200 shown in FIG. 6, and shows a configuration closer to an actual usage pattern as compared with FIG. In addition, since the discharge device 220 according to this modification has a configuration corresponding to the discharge device 120 according to the second modification of the first embodiment described above, a corresponding reference numeral is assigned to an equivalent configuration. Therefore, detailed description is omitted.

  Unlike the discharge device 120 according to the second modification example of the first embodiment, the discharge device 220 according to the second modification example of the second embodiment includes both electrodes 222 and 223 formed of dielectrics 225 and 226. A portion of both of the dielectrics 225 and 226 is soaked in the water W accumulated in the container 224. The interelectrode distance L means a linear distance connecting the surfaces of the electrodes 222 and 223 facing each other, and is greater than 100 mm. In the discharge device and discharge method according to the technique of the present invention, even if the distance between the electrodes is increased, the discharge can be satisfactorily performed without increasing the voltage applied between the electrodes. Since the discharge device 220 according to the second modification has such a configuration, the dielectrics 225 and 226 and the discharge devices 200 and 210 according to the second embodiment and the first modification described above can be used. A discharge region generated through the air A can be widened at a portion where the water surface of the water W comes into contact (see the discharge AD indicated by a dotted line in FIG. 8), and the discharge device according to the second modification of the first embodiment Compared to 120, liquid phase, gas phase, and solid phase purification and reforming can be carried out more efficiently. In addition, sterilization of gas phase bacilli and reforming of odorous substances can be carried out more efficiently.

  Subsequently, a discharge device according to a third modification of the second embodiment will be described. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a third modification 230 of the discharge device 200 shown in FIG. 6, and shows a configuration closer to an actual usage pattern as compared to FIG. 9A is a top view of the apparatus, and FIG. 9B is a side sectional view of the apparatus. In addition, about the structure equivalent to the above-mentioned 1st, 2nd embodiment and its various modifications, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected and detailed description is abbreviate | omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 9B, the discharge device 230 according to the third modification has electrodes 232 and 233 connected to both ends of a pulse power source 231 composed of a high-voltage pulse power source, outside the side wall of the container 234 composed of a dielectric. In the circumferential direction, the end portions 232a and 233a (see FIG. 9A) are attached in close contact with each other at slightly spaced positions. The inter-electrode distance L means a linear distance connecting the end 232a of the electrode 232 and the end 233a of the electrode 233, and is greater than 100 mm. In the discharge device and discharge method according to the technique of the present invention, even if the distance between the electrodes is increased, the discharge can be satisfactorily performed without increasing the voltage applied between the electrodes. The ends 232a and 233a are insulated by an insulator 236 in order to prevent creeping discharge from occurring between the electrodes 232 and 233. Note that the insulator 236 is not necessarily required when creeping discharge does not occur between the electrodes 232 and 233, such as when the ends 232a and 233a are sufficiently separated. Moreover, in order to prevent the danger that a person etc. will contact an electrode, you may cover the whole outer periphery of the electrodes 232 and 233 with an insulator.

  Since each of the electrodes 232 and 233 of the discharge device 230 according to the third modification has a configuration that covers approximately half of the circumferential direction of the container, the water W on the inner wall 234a of the container as shown in the discharge AD of FIG. It becomes possible to generate discharge over the entire portion in contact with the water surface. As a result, a discharge can be generated over a wide area in the vessel, so that purification and reforming of the liquid phase, gas phase, and solid phase, that is, the inside of the reaction vessel can be performed more efficiently. In addition, sterilization of gas phase bacilli and reforming of odorous substances can be carried out more efficiently.

  Then, the further modification of the 3rd modification of 2nd Embodiment mentioned above is demonstrated using FIG. 10A is a top view of the apparatus, and FIG. 10B is a side sectional view of the apparatus. In addition, about the structure equivalent to this 3rd modification, a corresponding code | symbol is attached | subjected and detailed description is abbreviate | omitted. The discharge device 230 ′ according to this further modification has the same basic configuration as the discharge device 230 of the third modification shown in FIG. 9 described above, but has a special tilt actuator not shown in detail here. As shown in FIG. 10B, the water contact area of the container inner wall corresponding to one electrode 232 ′ is made smaller than the water contact area of the container inner wall corresponding to the other electrode 233 ′. .

  In the present invention, the liquid phase can be regarded as an electrode, and the dielectric between the liquid phase and the electrode can be regarded as a capacitor. As shown in FIG. 10, by positively tilting the container 234 ′, the capacitance of the capacitor formed between the one electrode 232 ′ and the water W is reduced between the other electrode 233 ′ and the water W. It becomes smaller than the capacitance of the capacitor to be formed. As a result, the potential difference from the water W can be increased on the one electrode 232 ′ side having a small electrostatic capacity, and therefore, in the vicinity of the portion where the inner wall of the container and the water W are in contact with each other on the electrode 232 ′ side. A discharge can be generated through the air A at the portion in contact with the water surface (see the discharge AD in FIGS. 10A and 10B).

  As a result, the voltage of the pulse power source 231 ′ to which the electrodes 232 ′ and 233 ′ are connected does not have to be increased as in the second embodiment and the modifications described above. That is, the discharge can be generated by a pulse power source similar to the pulse power source of the discharge device according to the first embodiment and each modification thereof.

  Then, the 4th modification of 2nd Embodiment mentioned above is demonstrated. 11 shows a discharge device 240 according to a fourth modification of the discharge device 200 shown in FIG. 6. FIG. 11 (a) is an end view of the discharge device 240 as viewed from the longitudinal direction of the conduit, FIG. 11 (b). FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the discharge device 240. In addition, about the structure equivalent to each embodiment mentioned above and its various modifications, corresponding code | symbol is attached | subjected and detailed description is abbreviate | omitted.

  Unlike the above-described discharge devices, the discharge device 240 according to the fourth modification includes a duct 244 made of a dielectric material and a lateral outer peripheral wall 244a of the duct 244 that are opposed to each other in the radial direction of the duct. Thus, two electrodes 242 and 243 attached in close contact with each other and a pulse power source 241 including a high voltage pulse power source for applying a pulse voltage to the electrodes 242 and 243 are provided. The interelectrode distance L means a linear distance connecting the end portion of the electrode 242 and the end portion of the electrode 243, and is greater than 100 mm. In the discharge device and discharge method according to the technique of the present invention, even if the distance between the electrodes is increased, the discharge can be satisfactorily performed without increasing the voltage applied between the electrodes. Then, by applying a pulse voltage to the electrodes 242 and 243 via the pulse power source 241, as shown in FIG. 11A, the pipe 244 corresponding to each electrode 242 and 243 and the water surface of the flowing water W Is caused to discharge through the air A (see the discharge AD in FIG. 10A).

  In the conduit 244 made of a dielectric, as shown in FIG. 11B, the water W flows from one side and the water W flows out to the other side, so that depending on the active species generated by this discharge, or The flowing liquid phase, gas phase, solid phase, that is, the inner wall of the conduit 244 can be purified and reformed directly by the discharge. In addition, sterilization of gas phase bacilli and reforming of odorous substances can be carried out more efficiently.

  Next, a discharge device 240 'according to a further modification of the discharge device 240 according to the fourth modification of the second embodiment described above will be described. FIG. 12 is an end view corresponding to FIG. 11A showing a discharge device 240 ′ according to a further modification of the fourth modification shown in FIG. 11. The interelectrode distance L means a linear distance connecting the end portion of the electrode 242 'and the end portion of the electrode 243', and is greater than 100 mm. In the discharge device and discharge method according to the technique of the present invention, even if the distance between the electrodes is increased, the discharge can be satisfactorily performed without increasing the voltage applied between the electrodes. Regarding the discharge device 240 ′ according to this further modification, the same components as those of the discharge device 240 according to the fourth embodiment are denoted by the corresponding reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted.

  The discharge device 240 ′ according to this further modification has basically the same configuration as the discharge device 240 according to the third modification shown in FIG. 10, but is further modified from the third modification shown in FIG. Like the example, it has a special actuator. Although not shown in detail in FIG. 12, this actuator is a rotary actuator that rotates the pipe 244 ′ around the axis, and corresponds to one electrode 242 ′ that is in close contact with the outer peripheral wall of the pipe 244 ′ by this rotary actuator. The water contact area of the pipe 244 ′ to be made is made smaller than the water contact area of the pipe 244 ′ corresponding to the other electrode 243 ′.

  By the action of this rotary actuator, the capacitance of the capacitor formed between one electrode 242 ′ and the water W is larger than the capacitance of the capacitor formed between the other electrode 243 ′ and the water W. It becomes quite small. As a result, the potential difference between the one electrode 242 ′ and the water W can be increased, so that the discharge easily occurs via the air A at the portion where the pipe 244 ′ corresponding to the electrode 242 ′ and the water surface of the water W are in contact ( (See Discharge AD in FIG. 12).

  Since this further modified example has such a configuration, the pulse power source used in the first embodiment and the modified example is similar to the further modified example of the third modified example of the second embodiment described above. Discharge can be efficiently caused by a small pulse power source of the same level.

  In addition, as long as the material of the electrode used by each embodiment mentioned above and its modification may be a conductor, for example, if it is a metal, any of copper, silver, aluminum, titanium, those alloys, etc. can be used, Even non-metals can be used, for example, conductive ceramics and resins as long as they have lower electrical conductivity than the liquid used.

  In addition, as a material as a dielectric used in each of the above-described embodiments and modifications thereof, a non-conductive ceramic such as alumina, or a material such as glass or resin may be used.

  The thickness of the dielectric is preferably 0.1 μm to 10 mm, although it depends on the material used and the voltage of the pulse power supply.

  The liquid container or flow path may be entirely made of a dielectric, or at least a part of the container or flow path, that is, the vicinity of the liquid surface may be made of a dielectric.

  In addition, as an insulator material used in the above-described embodiments and modifications thereof to prevent discharge between safety surfaces and electrodes, it has insulating properties such as resin, insulating ceramics, and glass. Any material can be used.

  In addition, as the type of liquid in the present invention, water is used as the liquid in the above-described embodiment, but any liquid such as organic solvent or oil is used in addition to water such as pure water, tap water, and sewage. Also good.

  In each of the above-described embodiments and modifications thereof, normal air is used as the gas. However, the gas may be any air such as oxygen, nitrogen, water vapor, and helium, not limited to air or air containing impurities such as odor substances. .

  Further, without providing a special actuator as in the second modification of the second embodiment and a further modification of the third modification, the capacitance on one electrode side is simply changed to the electrostatic on the other electrode side. Even if it is smaller than the capacity, discharge can be generated only on one electrode side, and a discharge device having a simple configuration using a small pulse power source can be realized. In this case, the potential difference generated between the electrode and the liquid can be changed by making the contact area between the dielectric corresponding to each electrode and water constituting the two capacitors different from each other, It is possible to adopt any method such as making the dielectric constants different, or making the thicknesses of the respective dielectrics different.

The terms relating to the pulse voltage used in the present invention will be explained.
(Pulse voltage)
The voltage changes with a certain fixed pulse period, and its waveform includes a sine wave, a sawtooth wave, and a rectangular wave as shown in FIGS. The voltage may be a direct-current voltage that is biased to be positive or negative, or an alternating voltage in which the voltage goes back and forth between positive and negative. Further, there may be a time for holding a constant voltage, and the pulse rise time T1 and the pulse fall time T2 may be the same or different.
The pulse frequency is 50 Hz to 1 MHz, preferably 100 Hz to 500 kHz, more preferably 1 kHz to 100 kHz, although it depends on the voltage and the dielectric material and thickness.

(Pulse power supply)
Power supply that can generate pulse voltage.
(Pulse voltage value Vp-p)
This is the potential difference between the maximum potential and the minimum potential in the pulse voltage.
The pulse voltage value Vp-p applied to the electrode is preferably from 300 Vp-p to 300 kVp-p, preferably from 1 kVp-p to 100 kVp-p, more preferably 3 kVp-p, depending on the dielectric material and thickness. To 30 kVp-p is good.

(Pulse rise time T1)
This is the time during which the pulse voltage continuously increases, and is the time from the inflection point at which the voltage starts to increase to the maximum point.
The pulse rise time T1 depends on the voltage, dielectric material, and thickness.
3 to 10 milliseconds is good,
Preferably 4 microseconds to 5 milliseconds,
More preferably, 5 microseconds to 0.5 milliseconds is good.

(Pulse fall time T2)
This is the time during which the pulse voltage continuously decreases, and is the time from the inflection point at which the voltage starts to decrease to the next minimum point.
The pulse fall time T2 depends on the voltage, dielectric material, and thickness.
3 to 10 milliseconds is good,
Preferably 4 microseconds to 5 milliseconds,
More preferably, 5 microseconds to 0.5 milliseconds is good.

(Pulse cycle T3)
This is the time from the maximum value of the pulse voltage to the next maximum value.
(Pulse frequency)
It is the reciprocal of the pulse period T3.

  Subsequently, since an evaluation test for verifying the usefulness of the present invention was performed in relation to the above-described embodiment and various modifications thereof, the evaluation test result will be described.

  First, a first example whose evaluation test results are shown in FIG. 13 will be described. In this first example, an Escherichia coli IFO 3301 sterilization test was performed using a mist generating device corresponding to the mist generating device 110 (see FIG. 3) according to the first modification of the first embodiment described above in carrying out the present invention. It was.

As a condition for this evaluation test, a petri dish having a diameter of 10 cm, in which about 10 ² CFU of Escherichia coli IFO 3301 was placed, was placed vertically downward at a position 10 cm above the water surface. The number of bacteria was quantified by culturing the petri dish in a 37 ° C. incubator for 24 hours and counting the number of colonies after the culture. In addition, as a rough specification of the mist generating apparatus, silver is used as an electrode material, alumina having a thickness of 0.65 mm is used as a dielectric, the length of the electrode forming the mist generating part is set to 30 mm, and an applied pulse voltage The pulse frequency was a 1 kHz sine wave, the pulse rising speed and the pulse falling speed were 500 microseconds, and the pulse voltage value Vp-p was 21 kVp-p.

  As can be seen from the evaluation test results shown in FIG. 13, E. coli can be sterilized over time by applying a pulse voltage to the electrodes, and the mist-producing apparatus of the present invention can sterilize gas phase bacilli even in a rich state. I was able to prove it.

Next, a first embodiment showing another evaluation test result in FIG. 14 will be described. In the first example, the discharge device corresponding to the discharge device 220 (see FIG. 8) according to the second modification of the second embodiment described above in carrying out the present invention is used, and oxidation of potassium iodide (KI) is performed. Reaction was performed. When iodine ions (I ⁻ ) are oxidized, yellow I ₃ ⁻ is produced.

As conditions for this evaluation test, 200 ml of a 0.1 mol / L KI aqueous solution was put in a container corresponding to the container 224 in FIG. During the voltage application, the aqueous solution was stirred using a stirring bar. The amount of oxidation was determined by measuring the concentration of I ₃ ^{− in} the product with a visible ultraviolet spectrophotometer (measurement wavelength: 355 nm). In addition, as a rough specification of the discharge device, silver is used as an electrode material, glass having a thickness of 0.5 mm is used as a dielectric, the length of an electrode forming a discharge portion is 20 mm, and an applied pulse voltage is a pulse The frequency was a sine wave of 5 kHz, the pulse rising speed and the pulse falling speed were 100 microseconds, and the pulse voltage value Vp-p was 18.8 kVp-p.

  As can be seen from another evaluation test result shown in FIG. 14, the oxidation reaction of potassium iodide proceeds with time by applying a pulse voltage to the electrode, and the discharge device of the present invention enables the oxidation of the substance in the liquid phase. I was able to prove that.

  Further, in this evaluation test, it was confirmed that the water level (that is, the water line) at the portion where the surface of the dielectric and the liquid surface of the KI aqueous solution contacted each other increased by about 3 mm during the application of the pulse voltage. This is presumably because the wettability was improved by the generation of hydroxyl groups on the dielectric surface by the discharge to modify the dielectric surface and the removal of organic substances adhering to the dielectric surface. In this case as well, the effect of sterilization and reforming of the gas phase with the mist generated by the discharge also occurs.

  Next, a second example whose evaluation test results are shown in FIG. 15 will be described. In the second example, when the present invention is carried out, measurement data is taken using the discharge device 240 (see FIG. 11) according to the fourth modification of the second embodiment described above, and the water is allowed to flow in the iodine state. An oxidation reaction of potassium chloride (KI) was performed.

As conditions for this evaluation test, a 0.1 mol / L KI aqueous solution was passed through a discharge device corresponding to FIG. 11, and the I ₃ ⁻ concentration after the reaction was measured with a visible ultraviolet spectrophotometer. The general specifications of the discharge device are as follows: silver is used as the electrode material, glass with a thickness of 1 mm is used as the dielectric, the length of the electrode forming the discharge portion is 250 mm, and the applied pulse voltage is a sine with a pulse frequency of 28 kHz. In the wave, the pulse rising speed and the pulse falling speed were 18 microseconds, and the pulse voltage value Vp-p was 18 kVp-p.

  As can be seen from the evaluation test results shown in FIG. 15, by applying a pulse voltage to the electrode, the oxidation reaction of potassium iodide proceeds, and it is proved that the discharge device of the present invention can oxidize a substance in the liquid phase. did it.

  Next, a third example whose evaluation test results are shown in FIG. 16 will be described. In this third example, when carrying out the present invention, measurement data is taken using the discharge device 230 (see FIG. 9) according to the third modification of the second embodiment described above, and the organic chlorine compound is decomposed. It was.

As conditions for this evaluation test, 2.5 ml of a 2 mmol / L organochlorine compound (chlorobenzene) aqueous solution was put into a discharge device corresponding to FIG. 9 and a voltage was applied, and the chlorine ion (Cl ⁻ ) concentration of the decomposition product was set. Measured with an ion chromatography system. The general specifications of the discharge device are as follows. Silver is used as the electrode material, a glass container having a thickness of 1 mm and an inner diameter of 14 mm is used as the dielectric, and the applied pulse voltage is a sine wave with a pulse frequency of 28 kHz, the pulse rising speed and the pulse The descending speed was 18 microseconds, and the pulse voltage value Vp-p was 18 kVp-p.

  As can be seen from the evaluation test results shown in FIG. 16, chlorobenzene was decomposed by applying a pulse voltage to the electrodes, and it was proved that decomposition in the liquid phase was possible with the discharge device of the present invention.

  As can be seen from the above three evaluation test results, when the discharge method using the discharge device according to the present invention is carried out, the active species generated by the discharge in the gas phase and dissolved in the liquid phase, or the discharge directly into the liquid phase By acting, it can be proved that the oxidation and decomposition reaction in the liquid phase proceeds, and the discharge generated in the gas phase between the liquid phase and the dielectric (solid phase) causes not only the gas phase but also its surroundings ( Liquid phase and solid phase) were also shown to be affected. In this case as well, the effect of sterilization and reforming of the gas phase with the mist generated by the discharge also occurs.

  Subsequently, a fourth embodiment will be described. In the fourth example, in carrying out the present invention, measurement data is taken using the discharge device 240 (see FIG. 11) according to the fourth modification of the second embodiment described above, and water is allowed to flow. The amount of ozone gas produced was evaluated.

  As a condition for this evaluation test, tap water? Figure 11? The air was mixed at 3 L / min while flowing through the discharge device corresponding to, and the concentration of ozone gas discharged from the outlet side of the discharge device was measured with a detector tube. The general specifications of the discharge device are as follows: silver is used as the electrode material, glass with a thickness of 1 mm is used as the dielectric, the length of the electrode forming the discharge portion is 250 mm, and the applied pulse voltage is a sine with a pulse frequency of 28 kHz. In the wave, the pulse rising speed and the pulse falling speed were 18 microseconds, and the pulse voltage value Vp-p was 18 kVp-p.

  As a result of the evaluation test, the concentration of ozone gas discharged from the outlet side of the discharge device was 480 ppm. As can be seen from the evaluation test results, by applying a pulse voltage to the electrodes, oxygen in the air is ionized and combined, and ozone gas with strong oxidizing power is generated, and the discharge device of the present invention oxidizes the substance in the liquid phase. Was proved possible. In this case as well, the effect of sterilization and reforming of the gas phase with the mist generated by the discharge also occurs.

  As described above, according to the present invention, there is provided a discharge device and a discharge method capable of purifying and reforming a gas phase and a liquid phase with a high degree of design freedom without requiring an increase in the size of a power source. be able to.

  Further, it is possible to generate a mist by generating a mist in a gas phase between a liquid phase and a dielectric (solid phase) with a simple configuration, and to kill gonococci floating in the gas phase by the mist. Moreover, since mist contains active species, it is considered that the odor substance in the gas phase can be modified.

The present invention relates to various sterilizers, such as hand sterilizers, water treatment plants, water treatment devices, etc., water purification treatments, wastewater treatments, spaces where sterilization is prominent, and spaces (for example, toilets, hand dryers, etc.) that are to be sterilized. Used for sterilization, purification and reforming of the part where the inner surface of the pipe and drain outlet where dirt easily adheres, and the liquid surface, industrial production of liquid, deodorization and gas purifier, industrial production of gas, etc. can do.

It is a conceptual diagram which shows the schematic structure of the discharge device which concerns on the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a conceptual diagram explaining the effect | action of the discharge device shown in FIG. It is a conceptual diagram corresponding to FIG. 1 which shows the 1st modification of the discharge device shown in FIG. FIG. 10 is a side cross-sectional view corresponding to FIG. 1 showing a second modification of the discharge device shown in FIG. 1, and shows a configuration closer to an actual usage pattern as compared to FIG. 1. FIG. 5 is a plan view (FIG. 5A) and a side cross-sectional view (FIG. 5B) corresponding to FIG. 1 showing a third modification of the discharge device shown in FIG. The configuration close to the usage pattern is shown. It is a conceptual diagram which shows the schematic structure of the discharge device which concerns on the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a conceptual diagram which shows the 1st modification of the discharge device shown in FIG. FIG. 8 is a side sectional view showing a second modification of the discharge device shown in FIG. 6, and shows a configuration that is closer to an actual usage pattern than FIG. 6. FIG. 9 is a plan view (FIG. 9A) and a side cross-sectional view (FIG. 9B) showing a third modification of the discharge device shown in FIG. 6, which is closer to the actual usage than FIG. Shows the configuration. FIG. 10 (a) is a plan view corresponding to FIG. 9 (a) and FIG. 10 (b) is a side corresponding to FIG. 9 (b). FIG. FIG. 11A shows a fourth modification of the discharge device shown in FIG. 6, FIG. 11A is an end view seen from the longitudinal direction of the conduit, and FIG. 11B is a perspective view of the discharge device. It is an end elevation corresponding to Drawing 11 (a) showing the further modification of the 4th modification shown in Drawing 11. It is an evaluation test result of the 1st modification for proving the usefulness of the present invention. It is another evaluation test result of the 1st modification for proving the usefulness of the present invention. It is an evaluation test result of the 2nd modification for proving the usefulness of the present invention. It is an evaluation test result of the 3rd modification for proving the usefulness of the present invention. It is a figure which shows an example of a pulse voltage. It is a figure which shows another example of a pulse voltage. It is a figure which shows another example of a pulse voltage. It is a figure which shows another example of a pulse voltage. It is a figure which shows another example of a pulse voltage.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Discharge apparatus 101 Pulse power supply 102,103 Electrode 105 Dielectric 110 Discharge apparatus which concerns on 1st modification of 1st Embodiment 111 Pulse power supply 112,113 Electrode 115 Dielectric 120 In 2nd modification of 1st Embodiment Discharge device 121 Pulse power source 122, 123 Electrode 124 Container 124a, 124b Container inner wall 125 Dielectric 130 Discharge device according to the third modification of the first embodiment 131 Pulse power source 132, 133 Electrode 134 Container 200 Second embodiment Discharging device 201 Pulse power source 202, 203 Electrode 205, 206 Dielectric 210 Discharging device 212, 213 Electrode 215, 216 Dielectric 220 according to first modification of second embodiment Second modification of second embodiment Discharge device according to example 221 Pulse power supply 222, 223 Electrode 224 Electrode 225, 226 Dielectric 230 Discharge device according to third modification of second embodiment 231 Pulse power source 232, 233 Electrode 232a, 233a End 234 Container 234a Container inner wall 236 Insulator 230 ′ Second embodiment 231 'Pulse power supply 232', 233 'Electrode 234' Container 236 'Insulator 240 Discharge device according to the fourth modification of the second embodiment 241 Pulse power supply 242, 243 Electrode 244 Pipe line 244a Side outer peripheral wall 244b Pipe inner wall 240 'Discharge device according to a further modification of the fourth modification of the second embodiment 241' Pulse power supply 242 ', 243' Electrode 244 'Pipe A A Air W Water AD Air Discharge L Interelectrode distance T1 Pulse rise time T2 Pulse fall time T3 Pulse period Vp-p Pulse voltage value

Claims (4)

Pulse power supply,
A pair of electrodes connected to the pulse power source;
A discharge device in which at least a part of one of the electrodes is covered with a dielectric,
The distance between the pair of electrodes is separated by more than 100 mm;
A liquid is interposed between the dielectric and the other electrode so that the liquid surface is in contact with the dielectric;
A pulse voltage is applied between the pair of electrodes,
Discharge device. Pulse power supply,
A pair of electrodes connected to the pulse power source;
A discharge device in which at least a part of both electrodes are covered with a dielectric,
The distance between the pair of electrodes is separated by more than 100 mm;
A liquid is interposed between the dielectric and the other electrode so that the liquid surface is in contact with the dielectric;
A pulse voltage is applied between the pair of electrodes,
Discharge device. Pulse power supply,
A pair of electrodes connected to the pulse power source;
A discharge device in which at least a part of one of the electrodes is covered with a dielectric,
The distance between the pair of electrodes is separated by more than 100 mm;
A liquid is interposed between the dielectric and the other electrode so that the liquid surface is in contact with the dielectric;
A pulse voltage is applied between the pair of electrodes,
Discharge method. Pulse power supply,
A pair of electrodes connected to the pulse power source;
A discharge device in which at least a part of both electrodes are covered with a dielectric,
The distance between the pair of electrodes is separated by more than 100 mm;
A liquid is interposed between the dielectric and the other electrode so that the liquid surface is in contact with the dielectric;
A pulse voltage is applied between the pair of electrodes,
Discharge method.

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