MXPA01006146A - Microorganism control of point-of-use potable water sources - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention provides for the electrochemical generation of ozone for use in"point-of-use"applications. The electrochemical ozone generators or systems of the present invention may be used to provide disinfected water, ozone-containing water, and/or ozone gas. Disinfected water may be produced by introducing ozone gas into a potable or purified water source for the purpose of disinfecting or controlling the microorganisms in the water source. Ozonated water or ozone gas may be produced and provided for various anti-microbial and cleansing applications of the consumer, such as washing food, clothing, dishes, countertops, toys, sinks, bathroom surfaces, and the like. Furthermore, the ozone generator may be used to deliver a stream of ozone-containing water for the purpose of commercial or residential point-of-use washing, disinfecting, and sterilizing medical instruments and medical equipment. For example, the ozone-containing water may be used directly or used as a concentrated sterilant for the washing, disinfecting, and sterilizing of medical instruments or equipment. Ozone gas may also be used in many of the foregoing examples, as well as in the deodorization of air or various other applications. The invention allows the electrochemical ozone generator to operate in a nearly or entirely passive manner with simplicity of design.

Description

CONTROL OF MICROORGANISMS OF POTABLE WATER SOURCES IN THE PLACE OF USE DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to an apparatus for treating water, and more particularly, it relates to an apparatus for treating water for a source of drinking water in the place of use, such as a sub-system of inverted osmosis, refrigerators, drinking fountains, etc. It has been proposed above to provide an apparatus for the treatment of water and a prior apparatus is disclosed in US-A-4978438. This specification describes an electrolytic cell for treating water with gases emanating from electrolysis. The cell comprises a separate anode compartment and a cathode compartment by a diagram. A gas-permeable and liquid-impermeable window is provided, which is located between the cell so that the gas from the anode compartment and / or the cathode compartment can pass through the window to make contact with the water that is going to be treated. In the case of the electrolytic cell, the liquid is present in the anode compartment of the cathode compartment and in this way the window has liquid on each side thereof. The present invention seeks to provide an improved apparatus.

Ref: 130935 In accordance with one aspect of this invention, there is provided an apparatus comprising (a) a water treatment system at the point of use for potable water having a water inlet 150 and a water outlet 158; (b) an electrochemical, ozone generator 155 having an anode 302 for ozone formation, a cathode 303, an ion exchange membrane 301 positioned between the anode and the cathode, and a water supply port 100; and (c) an ozone gas distribution channel 104, 101, 100 that provides ozone gas communication between the anode and the water treatment system, the ozone gas distribution channel having two membranes 102, 103 hydrophobic gas-liquid separators placed therein to form a gas-containing separation 101 to prevent mixing of the liquid water between the anode and the water treatment system .. Preferably, the water treatment system includes one or more water treatment devices and wherein the water treatment system further comprises a reagent water supply outlet that provides communication for fluids from a point downstream of at least one or more water treatment devices to the ozone generator , electrochemical. Conveniently, a second electrochemical cell having an anode in fluid communication with the reagent water supply outlet and a cathode fluid outlet in fluid communication with the anode of the ozone generator. Preferably, the second electrochemical cell provides cathode fluid to the anode of the electrochemical ozone generator at a pressure greater than the pressure in the water treatment system adjacent to the ozone gas distribution channel. Conveniently, at least one of one or more water treatment devices is an electrodeionization device or an electrodialysis device. Preferably, the water treatment system includes a water storage tank and wherein the ozone gas distribution channel communicates ozone gas to pressurize the water storage tank. The apparatus may additionally comprise a differential pressure sensor for detecting the pressure differential across the hydrophobic gas-liquid separating membrane. The apparatus may also further comprise a controller in electronic communication with the differential pressure sensor and the electrochemical, ozone generator, wherein the controller controls the operation of the electrochemical, ozone generator.

The apparatus may additionally comprise a liquid water sensor placed in the gas chamber; and a controller in communication with the liquid water sensor and the electrochemical, ozone generator. The apparatus may additionally comprise a dissolved ozone sensor placed in the water treatment system. Conveniently, the apparatus also comprises voltage probes positioned through the anode and the cathode. Advantageously, the apparatus also comprises an electronic current sensor in series with the electrochemical, ozone generator. Conveniently, the apparatus further comprises a catalytic destruction system in selective communication with the ozone output and the cathode to convert hydrogen and ozone to water vapor and oxygen. Preferably, the anode, cathode and the ion exchange membrane are secured in intimate contact with a pre-molded plastic framework. Conveniently, the anode, cathode and ion exchange membrane are secured in intimate contact by injection molding. Advantageously, the water treatment system has a water treatment device, wherein the water treatment device is a particulate filter, ultrafiltration unit, carbon filter, water softener, an exchange bed. ion, inverted osmosis membrane, electrodeionization device, electrodialysis device or combinations thereof. Conveniently, the apparatus further comprises a housing that replaceably secures the treatment device and the ozone generator therein. Preferably, the water treatment device and the electrochemical ozone generator form a unitary structure. Alternatively, the water treatment device and the electrochemical ozone generator are placed in a common housing having a water inlet and a water outlet. Preferably, the housing includes an outlet for removal, gases emitted at the anode and cathode. Advantageously, the water treatment device and the electrochemical ozone generator are placed in series. Conveniently, the housing has a first and second terminal removal plugs at the opposite ends of the housing and a shoulder placed intermediate between the opposite ends to define two opposite sections on either side thereof, wherein the water treatment device and the electrochemical ozone generator are placed inside the opposite sections. Preferably, the water inlet to the housing is in fluid communication with the cathode and the water treatment device. Conveniently, the ion exchange membrane is tabulated, and wherein the water inlet to the housing is in fluid communication with the tabulated ion exchange membrane and the water treatment device. Advantageously, the apparatus further comprises a device in communication for fluids with the water outlet, wherein the device is a refrigerator, freezer, iron forming apparatus, water vending machine, beverage vending machine, source of water, spill launcher, filtration tap, or an inverted osmosis unit. Preferably, the water treatment system in the place of use, is a system adapted to distribute water containing ozone. Conveniently, the apparatus further comprises a home appliance in fluid communication with the water outlet, wherein the home appliance is a dish washer, washing machine, toy washer, or contact lens washer. Preferably, the apparatus further comprises medical equipment in fluid communication with the water outlet. Conveniently, the apparatus further comprises a cabinet that cleans a medical instrument in fluid communication with the water outlet, wherein the medical instrument is a rigid endoscope, flexible endoscope, catheter, surgical instrument, dental accessory, prosthesis or combinations thereof. Conveniently, the water treatment system in the place of use is a system adopted to produce disinfected water. Advantageously, the water treatment system in the place of use is a system adapted to produce ozone gas. Conveniently, the water inlet is in communication for fluids with the cathode. Alternatively, the water inlet is in communication for fluids with the anode. Preferably, the ion exchange membrane is tabulated, and wherein the water supply orifice is in fluid communication with the tabulated membrane.

In one embodiment, the separation containing gas is maintained by a level control valve placed in the ozone gas distribution channel. Alternatively, in the separation containing gas is maintained by a flotation system placed in the ozone gas distribution channel. According to a further aspect of this invention, there is provided a method for manufacturing an electrochemical cell comprising: (a) securing an assembly that includes an anode, a cathode and a protein exchange membrane positioned between the anode and the cathode; (b) place the assembly in a mold; (c) maintaining the anode, "proton exchange" membrane and the cathode at a temperature below about 180 ° C, and (d) injection molding around the voltage.According to another aspect of this invention, a method for making an electrochemical cell, comprising: (a) securing an anode, a cathode and an ion exchange membrane positioned between the anode and the cathode, within a pre-molded thermoplastic shell, wherein the thermoplastic shell maintains intimate contact to the anode, cathode and membrane Preferably, the method additionally includes injection mold around the pre-molded thermoplastic shell.

Alternatively, the method additionally includes injection molding around a plurality of thermoplastic, pre-molded frames. In a preferred apparatus according to the invention, the water treatment system has a carbon filter and an inverted osmosis purifier in series; wherein the ozone gas distribution channel communicates ozone gas between the anode and a point upstream of the carbon filter so that its controls the microbacterial growth in the carbon filter and any residual ozone is removed from the water stream by a carbon filter to prevent oxidation of the inverted osmosis membrane. In order that the invention can be more easily understood, and so that additional features thereof can be appreciated, the invention will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings which are now briefly described. . Figure 9 is a diagram of an exemplary ozone generator that has been designed and manufactured to be directly connected to a water reservoir; Figure 1 is a schematic view of an electrochemical, ozone generator subsystem having an ozone generator, electrochemical with phase separation membranes, hydrophobic to prevent the anode water and the water to be treated from mix. A differential pressure sensing element is used to verify the integrity of the phase separation membranes. Figure 2 is a block diagram of a water treatment system having an electrochemical ozone generator operating at a pressure substantially greater than the ambient pressure. Water at a normal pressure and distribution, such as the house pressure, is distributed to the system. To an ozone-generating sub-system, electrochemical is directly linked to the distribution of water or to the distribution system. Figure 3 is a block diagram of a water treatment system having an ozone generation and distribution sub-system for distributing or coupling ozone on the input side to a process. Figure 4 is a block diagram of a water quality monitoring system that has an audible or visual indicator. Based on the information available, the controller can control the operation of the ozone generation sub-system and can provide one or more indicators for the state of the system. Figure "" 5 is a block diagram showing a possible waste gas instruction sub-system as a part of a complete water treatment sub-system. Figure 6A is a cross-sectional diagram of an electrochemical cell. This core assembly can be used as a single cell electrolyser or can be injection molded as an insert to form a complete electrolyser system. Figure 6B is a sectional diagram of another design of the electrochemical cell; Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of a water treatment, storage and distribution device containing a non-bladder reservoir to provide short-term water distribution when the rate of water generation is substantially less than the short-term demand. Through the management of system variables, the system designer ensures that a minimum average contact time is provided. Figure 8 is a system diagram of a water treatment unit having multiple electrochemical systems operating at various pressures where the operating pressure of an electrochemical gas generator may be equal to or substantially greater than the pressure in the water stream. principal. Figure 10 is a diagram showing the integration of the microorganism control device in the place of use in a refrigerator having a characteristic, through the door. In the embodiments of the invention that will be described later, hydrophobic membranes are used. There is no particular restriction on the nature of the hydrophobic membranes to be used in the apparatus and the hydrophobic membrane can be formed with, for example, PTFE (ethylene tetrafluoride resin), called TEFLON® a trademark of DuPont of Wilmington, Dela are), PFA (ethylene-perfluoroalkoxy ethylene tetrafluoride copolymer resin, PVDF (vinylidene fluoride resin), FEP (ethylene tetrafluoride copolymer-propylene hexafluoride copolymer resin), ETFE (ethylene tetrafluoride copolymer resin) -etileho), etc., and the pore size of the hydrophobic membrane can be selected such that water does not penetrate through the hydrophobic membrane used, and is preferably from about 0.1 to 10 μm and more preferably from 0.1 to 2 μm thick Two hydrophobic membranes in series serve to ensure the separation between waters of different quality, for example, the water to be treated may contain chlorine or io which must be left in contact with the water of the anode and the water of the anode may contain by-products or contaminants that should not be allowed to come into contact with the water of the anode and the water of the anode contains by-products or contaminants that should not be transferred to the water to be treated. The two types of water can be maintained at different pressures and the system can be equipped with a differential pressure sensor to detect the failure of the separation membranes. The volume closed between the two membranes can be maintained at a different pressure than either the source of "water" or the source of water to be disinfected.A pressure sensor or other means of monitoring the differential of Pressure through each hydrophobic membrane can be used to ensure the integrity of each of the membranes.The ozone, electrochemical generator can be operated at a pressure that is comparable to the pressure of the water to be disinfected. In this way, the ozone gas that is generated can be introduced directly into the water that will be disinfected without the requirement of a venturi or compressors.The ozone gas generated by the electrochemical, ozone generator can be introduced upstream of a system filtration and / or water treatment to prevent the growth of bio-films that are known to shorten the lifespan of filters, carbon blocks and other filtering media. The electrochemical, ozone generator can be introduced upstream of a membrane-based water treatment system, such as inverted osmosis (RO) or. ultrafiltration systems, to prevent the growth and accumulations of biofilms that are known to reduce the functionality of the membranes. The ozone can be introduced periodically or in a controlled manner to prevent the reaction of the membrane of the water treatment system or other components that have limited tolerance to ozone. A visual or audible indicator may be used to provide an indication to the user as to the performance of the ozone generator, electrochemical. In one embodiment, the indication is the result of a sensor designed and operated to quantify the amount of ozone dissolved in the water to be disinfected, the reservoir, or any other suitable monitoring location. In another embodiment, the indication is the result of measuring the voltage across, and the current through, the electrochemical cell that generates the ozone. The output of the electrochemical cell can be correlated to the parameters of the cell and can therefore be used to monitor the performance of the ozone generator. As an example, the voltage between the anode and the cathode of the electrochemical cell is indicative of the electrochemical process, and the voltage can be used to determine if the electrochemical cell is producing oxygen or ozone. In many situations in the system, waste hydrogen gas that is a by-product of the electrochemical ozone generator process can not be released or is not easily removed. Therefore, a hydrogen destruction system can be incorporated to combine hydrogen with oxygen from the air to form water vapor that is more easily removed. Optionally, the hydrogen can be combined with any excess gas stream originating from the anode of the electrochemical ozone generator. The source of this gas stream can be excess gas directly from the generator or it can be gas that is released from the water to be disinfected after the ozone has been coupled with the water to be disinfected. The electrochemical ozone generator can operate a sub-system to a complete water treatment system that includes an inverted osmosis system. The water from the inverted osmosis system can be used at the anode of the electrochemical ozone generator, directly or after further processing using, for example, a resin bed designed to remove ions from the water source. The resulting ozone can then be used to treat water of any quality, before and / or after various processes and sub-systems of the water treatment system. The preferred systems of the present invention lead themselves to applications at the "place of use", which for all purposes herein must take into account the applications at the "place of entry". The "place of entry" is generally accepted as a place where water enters the home or installation of the water source, while the "place of use" is in the vicinity of its consumption. The water treatment at the place of entry processes the water for the house or complete installation. In contrast, the water treatment in the place of use processes the water in the general location where the water is consumed for drinking, bathing, washing or the like. The cooling of the electrolytic cell to or below room temperature can be provided by the process being treated. Cooling in general is required to prevent the inefficiencies of electrochemical processes from increasing the anode temperature above about 35 ° C, to minimize the thermal decomposition of the ozone produced. The cooling of ozone or water containing ozone at temperatures between room temperature and the freezing point of water serve to extend the lifetime of ozone as well as to improve the solubility of ozone in water. As an example, if the ozone generator is used to treat water that enters or is distributed from a refrigerator or freezer, the ozone generator can be located inside the refrigerator or in partial thermal contact or communication with the freezer. Water containing high amounts of dissolved ozone can be provided at the place of use for use as a wash or disinfectant. An additional water tap near the kitchen sink can be used to provide an ozone-containing water stream for food washing, plates, toys, utensils, etc. The construction of the ozone generator can be such that it leads on its own to mass production in the form of direct injection molding of a thermoplastic around the electrodes, membrane, flow fields, etc. The proton exchange membrane (PEM) and the anode catalyst are both temperature sensitive and should be protected from excessive temperatures (above 180 ° C) during the manufacturing process. Additionally, the proton exchange membrane is not a solid, but takes properties similar to a gel when it is completely hydrated. Therefore, another aspect of the invention is a sealing ring that provides an elastomer score and groove or seal with the membrane around the active area of the electrolyser and extends outward to the thermoplastic where a seal is formed during the molding process by injection. During manufacture, the components are pre-assembled, and are held together with a thermoplastic clip, inserted into an injection mold and the thermoplastic is injected. The porous substrates of the cathode and anode are brought into direct contact with the process of molding the catalyst and the membrane. The quality of the water used in the electrochemical cell can be improved through an electrodeionization or electrodialysis process to provide a continuous stream of deionized water without the need for consumables. In spite of the quality or source of water, which may include a source of drinking water and / or filtered, water should be provided to the electrochemical cell in sufficient quantities to support the electrolysis reaction of water to form ozone and hydrate the ion exchange membrane. Traditionally, the water is supplied directly to the anode since this is where the ozone formation reaction takes place and the water is transferred from the anode to the cathode by electramosmosis. However, in the embodiments of the present invention, water can be provided to the cathode for retro diffusion to the anode and membrane, laterally to the membrane (qui'zá "a tabulated membrane as described 'in U.S. Patent No. 5,635,039, or by a wick provided for that specific purpose. When the ozone generator is used in conjunction with a refrigerator, a portion of the ozone gas from the generator or the ozone gas not consumed from the water to be treated may be deflated to the refrigerator or freezer chamber to provide treatment for this air In this way, you can maintain control of the odor and freshness of the food, in the refrigerator and the freezer compartments.When the ozone gas is being used to provide disinfection of drinking water, any residual ozone can be removed from the stream of drinking water by a block of activated carbon, granulate, ultraviolet lamp, microwave or heat.The electrochemical ozone generator can be optimized for placement within other components of the water treatment system.For example, the ozone generator can be contained completely inside the RO water tank with the necessary connections so that the electrical conductors and the vent drógeno, placed completely inside a filter housing, water graphite, etc. Additionally, the electrochemical ozone generator can be made disposable and integrated with the other disposable components such as inverted osmosis membranes, carbon filter and / or other filter elements, etc. Ozone gas not dissolved in the water to be disinfected may be removed by the use of a hydrophobic membrane placed in the upper portion of a water reservoir. The excess ozone gas can then be passed through a destruction subsystem such as a heated catalyst or ozone destruction catalyst before it is blown out. The electroosmotic cathode water can be used to pressurize portions of an ozone generation, electrochemical subsystem of the water treatment system. For example, the cathode, electroosmotic water of an electrochemical ozone gas generator cooperates with the pressure of an inverted osmosis reservoir that can be used to provide water to an electrochemical ozone generator that operates at the highest water pressure. of entry or pressure of a carbon block or other filter element. Therefore, the pressure of an electrochemical ozone generator can be matched to the pressure of the water to be treated with the generated, electroosmotic water that is used to develop the necessary pressure. In a related example, a secondary electrochemical cell, such as an oxygen generator, can be installed as a subsystem, for the sole purpose of distributing high pressure water for the use of an electrochemical ozone generator anywhere in the system. In one embodiment of the invention, proposed for the use of systems having a captive gas reservoir (space between the surface and the lid, or blade type) for the distribution of water under pressure, an electrolyzer can be used to pressurize the reservoir . Additionally, the size of the electrolyser, reservoir, etc., can be correlated such that the distribution of water from the reservoir at a rate that corresponds to the speed of generation of ozone, ensuring that the water has properly coupled with the ozone. The distribution of water at a speed greater than a sustainable rate of ozone generation will result in a pressure drop within the reservoir, eveptually decreasing and stopping the distribution of. Water. In other embodiments of the invention, the electrochemical, ozone generator is located in line (such as in a tree) between several subsystems in a water treatment system.

Figure 1 shows an electrochemical ozone generator subsystem 112 having an ozone, electrochemical generator 105 (examples of which are shown in Figures 6A and 6B) an anode reservoir 104, a cathode reservoir 106 and is attached to a source of water to be treated 100 with membranes 102, Phase separation, hydrophobic to prevent the water at the anode 104 from mixing with the water to be treated 100. An intermediate region 101 in the form of a gas space joined by the membranes 102, Hydrophobic gas permeable can maintain a significantly different pressure from any of the areas 100, 104 that contain water. The pressure of the intermediate region 101 and the anode reservoir can be controlled by an external means through the connections 111 and 110, respectively. A differential pressure sensing element 107 monitors the pressure differential between the chambers 100, 101, 104 and compares the pressure differential to a predetermined reference. If the pressure differential falls outside a preferred range, the control system 109 can remove dust from the electrolyser 105 or provide an indication to the user that such service is required. Alternatively, if the intermediate reservoir 101 is maintained at a lower pressure than either the water to be treated 100 or the anode reservoir 104, a flow monitor at the end of the connector 111 could be used to detect excessive flow. of water from either 100 or 104 through a failed membrane 102 or 103, respectively. ' Figure-2 is a block diagram of a water treatment system 161 having an electrochemical, ozone generator 155 operating at a pressure substantially greater than the ambient pressure. Water at a normal distribution pressure, such as house pressure, is distributed to the system through 150 and enters an initial treatment chamber (such as a sediment removal filter) 151 that provides a pressure drop to the system during the water flow so that the water leaving the filter 152 is at a lower pressure than that entering 150. A number of additional processing steps (such as an individual step 153 with connections 154 and 152) can reduce additionally the water pressure during the water flow. An ozone generating, electrochemical sub-system 155 and support system 159 (which together represents a system such as 112 of Figure 1) is directly attached to the water distribution system. The pressure of the ozone generating sub-system 155 is left to fluctuate with the water pressure in the water distribution system 156 depending on the flow rate, the initial inlet pressure to 150, etc. The ozone is generated and distributed to the distribution system 156 which may also include a water reservoir system 160, a flow control device 157 and a tap 158. Figure 3 is a block diagram of a water treatment system 186. water having a sub-system 179 for distribution and generation of ozone to distribute and couple ozone at the inlet side to a system where the water quality in the main stream 184, '176 is not compatible with the sub-system requirements 179. ozone generator; Destruction, the pressure regulating component, the pre-filter, or the proprocessing sub-system 185 can be used to provide a pressure load between the water inlet 184 and the inlet point 176 of ozone. This pressure difference will allow the water to flow as needed from the water inlet 184 to a water treatment sub-system 187 through a connection 175. The water can then flow from the conditioning sub-system 187 to the subsystem 179 ozone generator. The ozone generating sub-system may then operate at a pressure comparable to the pressure at the ozone introduction point in primary water stream 176. The generation or introduction of ozone can be used through any number of sub-systems 180, such as inverted osmosis, ultrafiltration, deionization, etc. and deposits 181.

Figure 4 is a block diagram of a water quality monitoring subsystem 200 having an audible or visual indicator 214. A sub-system 210 for coupling and generating ozone distributes ozone through a conduit -203 to the stream 202 of primary water entering from a water source 201. The oxygen concentration is monitored at points through the distribution system using the ozone monitors 204, 207 in connection to a control system 213. The control system 213 is also provided with the operation parameters of the ozone generating sub-system 210 through the connections 211. The information provided to the controller may include, among other parameters, the current, through the ozone generator, generator voltages, temperature, etc. Based on the information available, the controller 213 can control the operation of the ozone generating sub-system 210 through a connection 212 and can provide one or more indicators 214 regarding the state of the system. Figure 5 is a block diagram showing a possible sub-system 231 of waste gas destruction as a part of a complete sub-system 225 of water treatment. According to the stream 226 of primary water treating with ozone from a sub-system 227 of generation and coupling of ozone, the waste hydrogen is generated as a by-product of the electrochemical reaction. This hydrogen is distributed through conduit 229 to a waste gas destruction sub-system 231 where the hydrogen is combined using a noble metal catalyst with oxygen from the air distributed by the air pump 230. In the additional oxygen and possibly the excess ozone can be collected from another region of the treatment system such as a tank 233. The excess gas can be separated from the water by a phase separator 234 and the gas provided is provided to the container. destruction system 231 through a conduit 236. Primary water, free of undissolved gas, can be distributed to the distribution system that continues from conduit 235. An auxiliary heater 238 can be attached to the destruction sub-system to ensure that the catalyst within the destruction system 231 is dry and active. Gaseous and / or non-hazardous liquid products exit the waste gas destruction sub-system 231 via conduit 232. Figure 6A is a cross-sectional diagram of an electrochemical cell 300 including a proton exchange membrane (PEM). 301 in contact with a porous substrate 302 and anode catalyst and a porous substrate 303 and cathode catalyst. The anode and cathode substrates are returned by flow fields 304 and 305, respectively, such that they can optionally serve as a support medium for the anode and cathode. The electrical connection can be provided by the flow fields 304, 305 or through electrical conductors 306, 307 provided specifically for that purpose. A seal 309, such as an elastomer or bead and slot, is preferably provided to seal each side of the proton exchange membrane so that the anode and cathode operate as isolated systems. The complete core assembly 301, 302, 303, 304, 305 can be held together by molded plastic parts 315, 316 which can be configured to press fit together by a fastener 308 or otherwise secured to form a unit. individual.' This core assembly can then be used as a single cell electrolyser or can be injection molded as an insert to form a complete electrolyser assembly containing an anode reservoir 311, a cathode reservoir 312, a structural means of support 310 and means for securing an associated system by means of threads 313, 314 shown for anode and cathode deposits 311, 312, respectively. Figure 6B is a cross-sectional diagram of an electrochemical cell 325. The system includes a proton exchange membrane (PEM) 301 in contact with a porous substrate 302 and anode catalyst and a porous substrate 303 and cathode catalyst. The anode and cathode substrates recede through the flow fields at 304 and 305, respectively, which can also serve as a means for supporting the anode and cathode. The electrical connection can be provided by the flow fields 304, 305 or through electrical conductors 306, 307 provided specifically for this purpose. A seal 309, such as an elastomer or bead and slot, is preferably provided to seal each side of the ion exchange membrane so that the anode and cathode operate as stand-alone systems. The one-piece or two-piece ring 326 provides compression on the seal 309 against the proton exchange membrane 301 and prevents the molten thermoplastic from entering the flow fields 304, 305 during a subsequent injection molding process. The ring 326 also eliminates the requirement for direct sealing between the gel-like proton exchange membrane 301 and the thermoplastic housing or body formed in the subsequent injection molding processes. The complete core assembly 301, 302, 303, 304, 305 can be held together by a molded plastic clip 327 after assembly and can be removed prior to injection molding or can be integrated into the molding.

Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of a water treatment, storage and distribution system 350 containing a reservoir 353 without bladder to provide water distribution when the water generation speed is substantially lower wanted short-term water demand so what a water deposit is required. Water is supplied to the treatment sub-system 364 from a water source through an inlet 363. The outlet 351 of the treatment sub-system 364 is in communication with the water distribution system 362 and a water storage tank 353. The water storage tank 353 is provided with a space 354 between the surface and the lid that is compressed as the tank fills and expands as the water is taken from the tank. HE. places an ozone generator 356 in communication with the storage tank and the ozone gas 357 enters the tank and engages with the water 365. As the oxygen gas and ozone is added to the tank by the electrochemical generators 353, 359 , the pressure in the space 354 between the surface and the lid will increase and the pressure will go above a pre-set value, the water can leave the tank 353 through a conduit 361 with a backpressure controller 355, open. The discharge 367 of the back pressure controller 355 can be connected to a suitable drain, phase separator, etc. This retropressure controller can be adjusted, to open at a pressure that is greater than the final pressure generated by the water treatment sub-system 364 so that the water is not pumped continuously from the tank 353 and flushed. . As the gas is distributed to the tank 353, that gas that does not dissolve in the water will be collected in the space 354 between the surface and the lid and eventually increase the pressure in the storage tank 353 if the water is not removed from the system 350 through conduit 362. Retrofit controller 355 will maintain pressure and water level 366 within the reservoir at a predetermined maximum. As the water and space 354 is consumed between the surface and the lid expands the pressure within the reservoir 353 will be reduced and the process 364 will assume the operation. As water consumption continues and the space between the surface and the lid increases further, the pressure within the reservoir may fall below the point where water distribution is possible and the flow of water out of the discharge 362 will start or stop significantly. Therefore, the rate of water distribution from the reservoir 353 is related to the gas generation rate of the electrochemical generators 356, 359 and the water production rate of the treatment sub-system 364. Through the management of the system variables, the system designer can ensure that an average minimum contact time is provided. Figure 8 is a system diagram of a water treatment unit 400 'having multiple electrochemical systems operating at various pressures. Water enters a first processing sub-system 402 through a water inlet orifice 401. An electrochemical ozone generator 404 injects ozone into the 403-primary stream. However, if the water quality in the primary stream at that point in the water treatment unit is not suitable for use in the electrochemical system 404, water must be provided from another source at a pressure equal to or greater than the point pressure 403. Therefore, a second electrochemical generator can be attached to a point, in the main process stream having a higher quality water 408 that can be easily treated for use in the electrochemical cell 410 by a 415 pre-treatment system such as a bed of ion exchange resin. The hydrogen gas and electroosmotic water generated by the electrochemical gas generator 410 can be distributed via a conduit 414 to a phase separator 412 where the gas is released 413 and water is provided through the conduit 407 to the gas generator 404 electrochemical Thus, the operating pressure of the electrochemical, gas generator 404 may be equal to, or substantially greater than, the pressure in the main water stream 403. The water source located downstream after any number of processes 405, 406, where the water quality is higher but the pressure is lower than at the water inlet 401 or the gas inlet point 403, is purer. Figure 9 is a diagram of an ozone generator 500 that is designed to operate in direct fluid communication with a water treatment device, such as the water reservoir for an inverted osmosis system. The system is manufactured from a single housing 503 made of a material suitable for use with ozone. The system includes an anode reservoir 501 and an anode frit 504 made of porous titanium having a lead dioxide catalyst coating on the contact side with the first side of the ion exchange membrane 507. The second degree of the proton exchange membrane is in contact with a second frit 508 made of porous stainless steel. Each porous frit 504, 508, is provided with a conductor 505, 506 formed of the same material as 504 and 508, respectively, and is welded per point to each frit to provide electrical connection to the anode and cathode. Directly supporting the porous stainless steel frit 508 is a flow-through field 509 of stainless steel, which provides a fluid connection to the cathode reservoir 502 through a conduit 511. The assembly 504, 507, 508, 509 is maintained in its place with a threaded plug 510. The plastic housing 503 accepts the components 504, 507, 508, 509 and provides a seal between the anode and cathode by compressing the proton exchange membrane 507 between the cathode frit 508 in stainless steel and the plastic housing 503. In the present system, the cathode water is allowed to return directly to the anode reservoir 501 through a depression 512 in the divider 514 between the reservoir tank 501 and the cathode reservoir 502. Both the ozone gas and the hydrogen gas are allowed to enter the water in the tank or alternatively, the system can be adjusted with a hole to redirect the hydrogen to a different location of the anode tank 501. Figure 10 is a schematic diagram showing the integration of the microbial control system in the place of use in a refrigerator having a water distributor. In this system, the refrigerator 600 is provided with a pressurized water supply 601 that feeds a carbon filter 605 and an inverted osmosis purifier 604, in series. The water in the reverse osmosis unit 604 is provided through the conduit 617 and the backflow prevention device 613 to an ozone generator 602 that is in thermal contact with a side wall 610 of the refrigerator compartment 608 but separated by a layer 612 of temperature regulation to prevent the electrolyser from freezing. The ozone of the electrolyser 602 leaves the ozone generator and is distributed between the dividing points such as 611 leading to the inverted osmosis purifier and a chilled water storage tank 606. The ozone is removed from the water storage tank and the excess ozone is destroyed by a 616 system of off-gas treatment. The ozone-containing water in the storage tank 606 passes through a fluid dissemination system 614 before it is distributed to the user at the water distributor 607.

Example An ozone generator was designed and manufactured according to Figure 9 to produce 0.16 grams of ozone per 24 hours. An individual electrolyzer cell with an active area of approximately 0.08 cm2 was used to generate and distribute ozone gas directly to a storage tank containing water with inverted osmosis quality. The system was made of polyvinyl difluoride (PVDF) and was approximately 5.08 cm (2 inches) long. The system consisted of six individual pieces: (a plastic housing, a 0.31 cm2 (1/8 inch) diameter porous titanium anode frit lined with lead dioxide, a 0.635 cm Nafion proton exchange membrane (1 / 4 in.) In diameter, a 1/4-inch porous stainless steel frit, and a stainless steel, extended, and 1/2-inch diameter flow field with a stopper which is screwed into the bottom of the assembly to retain all the components in the housing.The proton exchange membrane is also used as a seal to provide sealing between the cathode and the anode.The frits of porous stainless steel and porous titanium fit with conductors extending out through the vessel wall to provide electrical connection to porous materials.These conductors are embedded with epoxy in the housing.The PEM was a 'sheet' of sulfo acid polymer. perfluorinated sole, NAFION 117. Cooling for the generator is provided by direct contact with the water reservoir, which is sufficient to dissipate the half-watt of thermal energy generated by the device. The system can be operated at any temperature between the points of freezing and boiling water, but more frequently from about freezing at room temperature to maximize the lifetime of the ozone gas that is generated. No water fix is necessary since the water is provided by the reverse osmosis system. A supply of CD power that has two output levels was manufactured. This power supply provides a nominal constant current of 167 mA in normal operation, and a single constant voltage output of 2 volts to standby operation. While the foregoing is directed to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, other and further embodiments of the invention may be contemplated without departing from the basic scope thereof, and the scope thereof is determined by the claims that follow .

It is noted that in relation to this date, the best method known to the applicant to carry out the aforementioned invention, is that which is clear from the present description of the invention.

Claims (41)

1. REIV-CNDICATIONS Having described the invention as above, the content of the following claims is claimed as property: 1. An apparatus characterized in that it comprises: (a) a water treatment system in the place of use for drinking water that has a water inlet and a water outlet; (b) an ozone, electrochemical generator having an ozone-forming anode, a cathode, an ion exchange membrane positioned between the anode and the cathode, and a water supply port; and (c) an ozone gas distribution channel that provides communication of the ozone gas between the anode and the water treatment system, the ozone gas distribution channel has two hydrophobic gas-liquid separator membranes placed therein. same to form a gas containing separation to prevent the mixing of liquid water between the anode and the water treatment system. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the water treatment system includes one or more water treatment devices, and wherein the water treatment system additionally comprises a reagent water supply outlet that provides communication for fluids from a point downstream of at least one of one or more water treatment devices to the electrochemical, ozone generator 3. The apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that it further comprises a secondary electrochemical cell having a anode in fluid communication with the reagent water supply outlet and a cathode t fluid outlet in fluid communication with the anode of the ozone generator. The apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that the secondary electrochemical cell provides a cathode fluid to the anode of the electrochemical ozone generator at a pressure greater than the pressure in the water treatment system adjacent to the gas distribution channel of ozone. 5. The compliance device > with claim 3 or 4, characterized in that at least one or more water treatment devices is an electrodeionization device or electrodialysis device. The apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the water treatment system includes a water storage tank, and wherein the ozone gas distribution channel communicates ozone gas to pressurize the storage tank of water. The apparatus according to any preceding claim, characterized in that it further comprises a differential pressure sensor for detecting the pressure differential across the hydrophobic gas-liquid separating membrane. 8. The apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that it further comprises an electronic communication controller with the differential pressure sensor and the electrochemical ozone generator, wherein the controller controls the operation of the electrochemical ozone generator. The apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that it further comprises: a liquid water sensor placed in the gas chamber; and a controller in communication with the liquid water sensor and the electrochemical ozone generator. The apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that it also comprises a dissolved ozone sensor placed in the water treatment system. 11. The device in accordance with. In addition, it comprises voltage probes placed through the anode and the cathode. 12. The apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that it also comprises a current sensor, electronic in • series with the ozone generator, electrochemical. The apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that it also comprises a catalytic destruction system in selective communication with the ozone output and, the cathode to convert hydrogen and ozone to water vapor and oxygen. The apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the anode, cathode and the ion exchange membrane are secured in intimate contact within a pre-molded plastic framework. 15. The apparatus according to any of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the anode, cathode and ion exchange membrane are secured in intimate contact by injection molding. 16. The apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the water treatment system has a water treatment device, wherein the water treatment device is a particulate filter, an ultrafiltration unit, filter of carbon, water softener, ion exchange bed, inverted osmosis membrane, electrodeionization device, electrodialysis device or combinations thereof. 17. The apparatus according to claim 16, characterized in that it further comprises a housing which "in a replaceable manner secures the treatment device and the ozone generator therein. The apparatus according to claim 16, characterized in that the water treatment device and the electrochemical, ozone generator form a unitary structure. The apparatus according to claim 16, characterized in that the water treatment device, and the electrochemical, ozone generator are placed in a common housing having a water inlet and a water outlet. The apparatus according to claim 19, characterized in that the housing includes an outlet for removing gases emitted at the anode and cathode. The apparatus according to claim 19, characterized in that the water treatment device and the electrochemical, ozone generator are placed in series. The apparatus according to claim 20, characterized in that the housing has a first and a second end plugs for removal at the opposite ends of the housing and a shoulder placed immediately between the exposed ends to define two opposite sections on either side thereof. , wherein the water treatment device and the electrochemical ozone generator are placed within the opposite sections. 23. The apparatus according to any of claims 16 or 22, characterized in that the water inlet to the housing is in communication for fluids with the cathode and the water treatment device. 24. The apparatus according to any of claims 16 to 22, characterized in that the ion exchange membrane is tabulated and where the water inlet to the housing is in fluid communication with the tabulated ion exchange membrane and the treatment device. of water. 25. The apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that it further comprises a device in communication for fluids with the water outlet, wherein the device is a freezer refrigerator, ice maker, water vending machine, beverage vending machine, water source, spill launcher, filtration tap, or an inverted osmosis unit. 26. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the water treatment system in the place of use is a system adapted to distribute water containing ozone. 27. The apparatus according to claim 26, characterized in that it further comprises a home appliance in communication for fluids with the water outlet, wherein the home appliance is a dishwasher, washing machine, toy washer, or contact lens washer. 28. The apparatus according to claim 26, characterized in that it also comprises medical equipment in fluid communication with the water outlet. 29. The apparatus according to claim 26, characterized in that it also comprises a cabinet that cleans a medical instrument in fluid communication with the water outlet, wherein the medical instrument is a rigid endoscope, flexible endoscope, catheter, surgical instrument, dental abutment, prosthesis or combinations thereof. 30. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the water treatment system in the place of use is a system adapted to produce disinfected water. 31. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the water system in the place of use is a system adapted to produce ozone gas. 32. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the water inlet is in communication for fluids with the cathode. 33. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the water inlet is in communication for fluids with the anode. 34. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the ion exchange membrane is tabulated, wherein the water supply orifice is in fluid communication with the tabulated membrane. 35. The apparatus according to any preceding claim, characterized in that the separation containing gas is maintained by a level control valve placed in the ozone gas distribution channel. 36. The apparatus according to any of claims 1 to 34, characterized in that the separation containing gas is maintained by a flotation system placed in the ozone gas distribution channel. 37. A method for manufacturing an electrochemical cell, comprising: (a) securing an assembly that includes an anode, a cathode and a protein exchange membrane placed between the anode and the cathode; (b) place the assembly in a mold; (c) maintaining the anode, proton exchange membrane and the cathode at a temperature below about 180 ° C, and (d) injection molding around the assembly. 38. A method for making an electrochemical cell, comprising: (a) securing an anode, a cathode and an ion exchange membrane positioned between the anode and the cathode within a pre-molded thermoplastic shell, wherein the thermoplastic shell maintains the anode, cathode and membrane in intimate contact. 39. The method according to claim 38, characterized in that it further comprises: injection molding around the pre-molded thermoplastic shell. 40. The method according to claim 38, characterized in that it further comprises: injection molding around a plurality of pre-molded thermoplastic frames. 41. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 or 36, characterized in that the water treatment system has a carbon filter and an inverted osmosis purifier in series; wherein the ozone gas distribution channel communicates ozone gas between the anode and a point upstream of the carbon filter so that the microbial growth in the carbon filter is controlled and any residual ozone is removed from the water stream by the carbon filter to prevent the oxidation of the inverted osmosis membrane. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention provides the electrochemical generation of ozone for the use of applications in "the place of use". The generators of ozone, electrochemical or. The system of the present invention can be used to provide disinfected water, water containing ozone and / or ozone gas. Disinfected water can be produced by introducing ozone gas into a source of purified or drinking water for the purpose of disinfecting or controlling microorganisms in the water source. Water with ozone or ozone gas can be produced and provided for various anti-microbial and consumer cleaning applications, such as food washing, clothes, plates, lenses, toys, sinks, bathroom surfaces, and the like. Additionally, the ozone generator can be used to distribute a stream of water containing ozone for the purpose of washing in the place of use, commercial or residential, disinfection and sterilization of medical instruments and medical equipment. For example, water containing ozone can be used directly or used as a concentrated sterilant for. the washing, disinfection and sterilization of instruments or medical equipment. Ozone gas can also be used in many of the above examples, as well as air deodorization or several different applications. The invention allows the electrochemical ozone generator to be operated almost or completely passively with a design simplicity.