WO2003057631A1 - Systemes de traitement des eaux usees - Google Patents

Systemes de traitement des eaux usees Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2003057631A1
WO2003057631A1 PCT/IL2002/000911 IL0200911W WO03057631A1 WO 2003057631 A1 WO2003057631 A1 WO 2003057631A1 IL 0200911 W IL0200911 W IL 0200911W WO 03057631 A1 WO03057631 A1 WO 03057631A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
wastewater
envelope
flow
chamber
impurity
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/IL2002/000911
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
David Livshits
Original Assignee
Mei Rechavam Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from IL14752002A external-priority patent/IL147520A0/xx
Priority claimed from IL14751902A external-priority patent/IL147519A0/xx
Application filed by Mei Rechavam Ltd filed Critical Mei Rechavam Ltd
Priority to AU2002347584A priority Critical patent/AU2002347584A1/en
Publication of WO2003057631A1 publication Critical patent/WO2003057631A1/fr

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    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F1/00—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage
    • C02F1/46—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by electrochemical methods
    • C02F1/461—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by electrochemical methods by electrolysis
    • C02F1/467—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by electrochemical methods by electrolysis by electrochemical disinfection; by electrooxydation or by electroreduction
    • C02F1/4676—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by electrochemical methods by electrolysis by electrochemical disinfection; by electrooxydation or by electroreduction by electroreduction
    • C02F1/4678—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by electrochemical methods by electrolysis by electrochemical disinfection; by electrooxydation or by electroreduction by electroreduction of metals
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F1/00—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage
    • C02F1/46—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by electrochemical methods
    • C02F1/461—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by electrochemical methods by electrolysis
    • C02F1/463—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by electrochemical methods by electrolysis by electrocoagulation
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F1/00—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage
    • C02F1/001—Processes for the treatment of water whereby the filtration technique is of importance
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F1/00—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage
    • C02F1/28—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by sorption
    • C02F1/281—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by sorption using inorganic sorbents
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F1/00—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage
    • C02F1/28—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by sorption
    • C02F1/283—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by sorption using coal, charred products, or inorganic mixtures containing them
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F1/00—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage
    • C02F1/46—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by electrochemical methods
    • C02F1/461—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by electrochemical methods by electrolysis
    • C02F1/46104—Devices therefor; Their operating or servicing
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F1/00—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage
    • C02F1/46—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by electrochemical methods
    • C02F1/461—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by electrochemical methods by electrolysis
    • C02F1/467—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by electrochemical methods by electrolysis by electrochemical disinfection; by electrooxydation or by electroreduction
    • C02F1/4672—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by electrochemical methods by electrolysis by electrochemical disinfection; by electrooxydation or by electroreduction by electrooxydation
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F1/00—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage
    • C02F1/72—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by oxidation
    • C02F1/74—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by oxidation with air
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F1/00—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage
    • C02F2001/007—Processes including a sedimentation step
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F2101/00—Nature of the contaminant
    • C02F2101/10—Inorganic compounds
    • C02F2101/20—Heavy metals or heavy metal compounds
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F2201/00—Apparatus for treatment of water, waste water or sewage
    • C02F2201/46—Apparatus for electrochemical processes
    • C02F2201/461—Electrolysis apparatus
    • C02F2201/46105—Details relating to the electrolytic devices
    • C02F2201/4612—Controlling or monitoring
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F2201/00—Apparatus for treatment of water, waste water or sewage
    • C02F2201/46—Apparatus for electrochemical processes
    • C02F2201/461—Electrolysis apparatus
    • C02F2201/46105—Details relating to the electrolytic devices
    • C02F2201/4612—Controlling or monitoring
    • C02F2201/46145—Fluid flow
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F2209/00—Controlling or monitoring parameters in water treatment
    • C02F2209/02—Temperature
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F2209/00—Controlling or monitoring parameters in water treatment
    • C02F2209/05—Conductivity or salinity
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F2209/00—Controlling or monitoring parameters in water treatment
    • C02F2209/06—Controlling or monitoring parameters in water treatment pH
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F2209/00—Controlling or monitoring parameters in water treatment
    • C02F2209/42—Liquid level
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F2301/00—General aspects of water treatment
    • C02F2301/02—Fluid flow conditions
    • C02F2301/022—Laminar
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F2301/00—General aspects of water treatment
    • C02F2301/04—Flow arrangements
    • C02F2301/043—Treatment of partial or bypass streams
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F2303/00—Specific treatment goals
    • C02F2303/16—Regeneration of sorbents, filters
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F9/00—Multistage treatment of water, waste water or sewage

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a wastewater treatment system and, in particular, it concerns a wastewater treatment system using laminar flow through an electric field.
  • electrolysis of wastewater is performed as part of a water treatment process to remove metals and remove and/or neutralize organic and other impurities from a wastewater.
  • Electrolysis is a preferred method to remove metals from wastewater, as it does not require the use of hazardous chemicals, unstable bacteria treatment or expensive treatment by catalysts.
  • the electrolysis process normally involves passing the wastewater between at least one pair of electrodes to produce hydroxyl ions that precipitate metal ions from the wastewater as metal hydroxides.
  • the wastewater stream is then filtered to remove the metal ions and other impurities.
  • the electrodes need to pass sufficient energy to the water.
  • U.S. Patent No. 6.139.714 to Livshits which teaches an apparatus for adjusting the pH of an aqueous flowable fluid.
  • the apparatus includes two columns which are interconnected.
  • One column which contains a pair of electrodes has a smaller volume than the other column. Therefore, the addition of water to the column without the electrodes causes an acceleration of the water between the electrodes in the other column.
  • U.S. Patent No. 6,139,714 does not refer to whether the water flow is laminar or turbulent. However, it is evident from the square edges of the design of the columns (Fig. 3 and Fig. 4) that mamt ⁇ ining laminar flow was not considered important, as the square edges of the columns will generally set up turbulence within the water.
  • a shortcoming of the aforementioned systems is due to water flowing turbulently through an electric field to purify water.
  • the present invention is a wastewater treatment system and method of operation thereof.
  • a treatment system for wastewater comprising: (a) a first chamber; (b) a second chamber having a pair of electrodes configured to produce a first electric field; and (c) a conduit configured to connect the first chamber to the second chamber, wherein at least one of the first chamber, the second chamber and the conduit are formed such that a flow of the wastewater through the first electric field is substantially laminar.
  • a semi-permeable membrane which is disposed between the pair of electrodes.
  • the semi-permeable membrane substantially separates at least a part of the wastewater which is in the second chamber into a first flow and a second flow; and wherein the second chamber includes a first outlet and a second outlet such that the first flow exits from the second chamber via the first outlet and the second flow exits from the second chamber via the second outlet.
  • the wastewater is configured to flow first substantially parallel and then substantially perpendicular to the first electric field.
  • the wastewater is configured to flow first substantially perpendicular and then substantially parallel to the first electric field.
  • At least one of the pair of electrodes is configured so that upon at least one of entering and exiting the second chamber, the wastewater flows substantially parallel to the first electric field.
  • At least one of the pair of electrodes has two major surfaces and a hole extending between the two major surfaces so that upon at least one of entering and exiting the second chamber, at least part of the wastewater flows through the hole.
  • an edge protector having a length perpendicular to the major surfaces; the length being longer than a depth of the one electrode measured perpendicular to the major surfaces, the edge protector being configured to enhance an energy transfer between the one electrode and the wastewater which is flowing through the hole.
  • At least one of the first chamber, the second chamber and the conduit are formed such that separate flows of the wastewater through the first electric field are treated substantially identically.
  • a third chamber configured to connect the third chamber to the second chamber, wherein at least one of the first chamber, the second chamber, the third chamber, the conduit and the second conduit are formed such that a flow of the wastewater through the first electric field is substantially laminar and separate flows of the wastewater through the first electric field are treated substantially identically.
  • a fourth chamber having a second pair of electrodes configured to produce a second electric field; wherein the system is configured such that the wastewater is treated substantially identically by the first electric field and the second electric field.
  • a filtration apparatus which includes: (a) a plurality of filtration elements configured to cooperate to filter the wastewater of an impurity; and (b) an air pump configured to clean the filtration elements of at least a part of the impurity during a normal operation of the filtration apparatus.
  • each of the filtration elements includes a member having a plurality of grooves thereon.
  • a precious metal recovery apparatus which includes: (a) a first electrode formed from a material having a high surface area to volume ratio; and (b) a second electrode, the first electrode and the second electrode being configured for connection to a power supply to enable recovery of the precious metal from the wastewater by electroplating of the first electrode with at least part of the precious metal.
  • the material is an absorbent conducting material.
  • the material is a carbographite material.
  • a semi- permeable envelope for filtering an impurity from the wastewater
  • the envelope including: (a) an inlet configured to allow the wastewater to enter the envelope; and (b) a plurality of holes configured to: (i) allow exit of the wastewater from the envelope; (ii) trap at least part of the impurity inside the envelope; wherein the envelope is configured to stretch to maintain a substantially constant filtering throughput of the envelope when the at least part of the impurity adheres near the holes.
  • the envelope is substantially formed of a knitted fabric.
  • the knitted fabric includes a polyamide thread.
  • a wastewater sedimentation apparatus which includes: (a) a plurality of deflecting elements configured to cooperate to enhance sedimentation of impurities from the wastewater; and (b) a distribution member configured to distribute the wastewater among the deflecting elements.
  • each of the deflecting elements is shaped substantially as a truncated cone.
  • the truncated cone has at least one projection.
  • the projection is substantially radial.
  • the distribution member is a perforated pipe.
  • the deflecting elements and the distribution member are co-axially arranged.
  • a filtration apparatus to filter an impurity from the wastewater, the filtration apparatus including: (a) a first surface having a plurality of ridges and grooves; and (b) a second surface having a plurality of ridges and grooves wherein the first surface is disposed facing the second surface such that, the grooves of the first surface are nonparallel to the grooves of the second surface in order to cause at least part of the wastewater to take a non-linear path between the first surface and the second surface thereby filtering at least part of the impurity.
  • the grooves of the first surface are substantially cross-aligned with the grooves of the second surface.
  • a filtration apparatus for filtering an impurity from wastewater
  • the filtration apparatus including: (a) a granular catalyst configured to remove at least part of the impurity from the wastewater; and (b) a semi-permeable envelope having a plurality of holes, the envelope being configured to contain the granular catalyst, the plurality of holes being configured to allow exit of the wastewater from the envelope, wherein the envelope is configured to stretch to maintain a substantially constant filtering throughput of the envelope when at least part of the impurity adheres near the holes.
  • the envelope has an upper surface
  • the filtration apparatus further including: (c) a tank configured to hold the envelope; and (d) a water disperser configured to distribute the wastewater entering the tank over the upper surface of the envelope in order to maximize contact of the wastewater with the granular catalyst.
  • the water disperser includes an element having a plurality of holes therein, wherethrough the wastewater flows.
  • the filtration apparatus further includes: (c) a tank configured to hold the envelope, the tank having an outlet configured to allow a drainage of the wastewater from the tank; and (d) a water integrator configured to prevent the envelope from obstructing the drainage of the wastewater via the outlet.
  • the water integrator is an element having a plurality of holes therein, wherethrough the wastewater flows.
  • the envelope is substantially formed of a knitted fabric.
  • the knitted fabric includes a polyamide thread.
  • an apparatus for aerating the wastewater including: (a) a pipe configured for connection to a fluid supply; and (b) a discharge head operationally connected to the pipe, the discharge head including at least one channel having a cross-sectional area, at least part of the channel being configured for insertion into the wastewater, the cross-sectional area being small enough that when a flow of a fluid from the fluid supply is activated, a low pressure region is set up in the wastewater, thereby producing a plurality of micro-bubbles which aerate the wastewater.
  • the fluid is air. According to a further feature of the present invention, the fluid is recycled water.
  • an apparatus for aerating wastewater including: (a) a first pipe configured to introduce the wastewater to the apparatus; (b) a second pipe configured for connection to a fluid supply; and (c) a discharge head having at least one channel, the channel being configured to operationally connect the second pipe to the first pipe, the channel having a cross-sectional area that is small enough that when a flow of a fluid from the fluid supply is activated, a low pressure region is set up in the first pipe that: (i) produces a plurality of micro- bubbles which aerate the wastewater; and (ii) quickens a flow of the wastewater into the apparatus.
  • the second pipe is at least partially disposed within the first pipe.
  • the discharge head has a conical surface having an apex that points opposite to a direction of flow of the wastewater in the first pipe.
  • a filtration apparatus comprising: (a) a plurality of filtration elements configured to cooperate to filter wastewater of an impurity; and (b) an air pump configured to clean the filtration elements of at least a part of the impurity during a normal operation of the filtration apparatus.
  • each of the filtration elements includes a member having a plurality of grooves thereon.
  • a precious metal recovery system comprising: (a) a first electrode formed from a material having a high surface area to volume ratio; and (b) a second electrode, the first electrode and the second electrode being configured for connection to a power supply to enable recovery of the precious metal from wastewater by electroplating of the first electrode with at least part of the precious metal.
  • the material is an absorbent conducting material.
  • the material is a carbographite material.
  • a semi- permeable envelope for filtering an impurity from wastewater, comprising: (a) an inlet configured to allow the wastewater to enter the envelope; and (b) a plurality of holes configured to: (i) allow exit of the wastewater from the envelope; and (ii) trap at least part of the impurity inside the envelope; wherein the envelope is configured to stretch to maintain a substantially constant filtering throughput of the envelope when the at least part of the impurity adheres near the holes.
  • the envelope is substantially formed of a knitted fabric.
  • the knitted fabric includes a polyamide thread.
  • a wastewater sedimentation apparatus comprising: (a) a plurality of deflecting elements configured to cooperate to enhance sedimentation of impurities from the wastewater; the deflecting elements being shaped substantially as a truncated cone; the truncated cone having at least one projection; and (b) a distribution member configured to distribute the wastewater among the deflecting elements; the distribution member being a perforated pipe, wherein the deflecting elements and the distribution member are co-axially arranged.
  • the projection is substantially radial.
  • each of the spacer members being disposed between the distribution member and two of the deflecting elements, the spacer members configured to maintain a laminar flow of the wastewater in order to enhance sedimentation of impurities from the wastewater.
  • a filtration apparatus to filter an impurity from wastewater, comprising: (a) a first surface having a plurality of ridges and grooves; and (b) a second surface having a plurality of ridges and grooves wherein the first surface is disposed facing the second surface such that, the grooves of the first surface are nonparallel to the grooves of the second surface in order to cause at least part of the wastewater to take a non-linear path between the first surface and the second surface thereby filtering at least part of the impurity.
  • a filtration apparatus for filtering an impurity from wastewater comprising: (a) a granular catalyst configured to remove at least part of the impurity from the wastewater; and (b) a semi- permeable envelope having a plurality of holes, the envelope being configured to contain the granular catalyst, the plurality of holes being configured to allow exit of the wastewater from the envelope, wherein the envelope is configured to stretch to maintain a substantially constant filtering throughput of the envelope when at least part of the impurity adheres near the holes.
  • the envelope has an upper surface
  • the apparatus further comprising: (c) a tank configured to hold the envelope; and (d) a water disperser configured to distribute the wastewater entering the tank over the upper surface of the envelope in order to maximize contact of the wastewater with the granular catalyst.
  • the water disperser includes an element having a plurality of holes therein, wherethrough the wastewater flows.
  • a tank configured to hold the envelope, the tank having an outlet configured to allow a drainage of the wastewater from the tank; and (d) a water integrator configured to prevent the envelope from obstructing the drainage of the wastewater via the outlet.
  • the water integrator is an element having a plurality of holes therein, wherethrough the wastewater flows.
  • the envelope is substantially formed of a knitted fabric.
  • the knitted fabric includes a polyamide thread.
  • a apparatus for aerating wastewater comprising: (a) a pipe configured for connection to a fluid supply; and (b) a discharge head operationally connected to the pipe, the discharge head including at least one channel having a cross-sectional area, at least part of the channel being configured for insertion into the wastewater, the cross-sectional area being small enough that when a flow of a fluid from the fluid supply is activated, a low pressure region is set up in the wastewater, thereby producing a plurality of micro-bubbles which aerate the wastewater.
  • the fluid is air.
  • an apparatus for aerating wastewater comprising: (a) a first pipe configured to introduce the wastewater to the apparatus; (b) a second pipe configured for connection to a fluid supply; and (c) a discharge head having at least one channel, the channel being configured to operationally connect the second pipe to the first pipe, the channel having a cross-sectional area that is small enough that when a flow of a fluid from the fluid supply is activated, a low pressure region is set up in the first pipe that: (i) produces a plurality of micro-bubbles which aerate the wastewater; and (ii) quickens a flow of the wastewater into the apparatus.
  • the second pipe is at least partially disposed within the first pipe.
  • the discharge head has a conical surface having an apex that points opposite to a direction of flow of the wastewater in the first pipe.
  • a method for treating wastewater comprising the steps of: (a) providing an electric field; and (b) causing a substantially laminar flow of the wastewater through the electric field in order to precipitate a plurality of metal ions from the wastewater.
  • the step of causing the laminar flow of the wastewater includes causing the substantially laminar flow of the wastewater first substantially parallel and then substantially pe ⁇ endicular to the electric field. According to a further feature of the present invention, the step of causing the laminar flow of the wastewater includes causing the substantially laminar flow of the wastewater first substantially perpendicular and then substantially parallel to the electric field.
  • a method to filter an impurity from wastewater comprising the steps of: (a) filtering the wastewater of an impurity using a filter; and (b) cleaning at least part of the filter of the impurity using air pressure.
  • a method to recover a precious metal from wastewater comprising the steps of: (a) electroplating an electrode with at least part of the precious metal; and (b) destroying the electrode in a manner that leaves behind the precious metal that is electroplated thereon.
  • the material is a absorbent conducting material.
  • the material is a carbographite material.
  • a method to aerate wastewater comprising the steps of: (a) pro ⁇ 'iding a fluid; and (b) injecting the fluid into the wastewater such that a low-pressure region is set up in the wastewater producing a plurality of micro-bubbles which aerate the wastewater.
  • a method for treating wastewater comprising the steps of: (a) providing an electric field; (b) causing a flow of the wastewater through the electric field in order to precipitate metal ions from the wastewater; (c) substantially separating at least part of the wastewater prior to leaving the electric field into a first flow which includes the metal ions and a second flow; and (d) subsequent to the step of separating, performing at least one operation, selected from a group consisting of filtering of the wastewater and causing a sedimentation from the wastewater, the operation being performed separately and selected from the group separately, for the first flow and the second flow.
  • Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram of a wastewater treatment system that is constructed and operable in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention
  • Fig. la is a schematic diagram of a section of the wastewater system of Fig. 1 that is constructed and operable in accordance with an alternate embodiment of the present invention
  • Fig. 2 is an isometric view of a filtration apparatus for use with the wastewater treatment system of Fig. 1;
  • Fig. 3 is a top view of a filtration element of the filtration apparatus of Fig. 2;
  • Fig. 4 is an axial-sectional view of the filtration apparatus of Fig. 2 along line A-A;
  • Fig. 5 is an axial-sectional view of a wastewater sedimentation apparatus for use with the wastewater treatment system of Fig. 1 ;
  • FIG. 6 is a schematic illustration of laminar flow through an electric field for use with a wastewater treatment system that is constructed and operable in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention
  • Fig. 7 is an isometric view of an electrolytic reactor for use with the wastewater treatment system of Fig. 1;
  • Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the electrolytic reactor of Fig. 7 along line A-A;
  • Fig. 9 is an expanded cross-sectional view of an electrolytic cell of the electrolytic reactor of Fig. 8;
  • Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the electrolytic cell of Fig. 9 along line A-A;
  • Fig. 11 is an expanded view of the region labeled with a letter B in Fig. 9;
  • Fig. 12 is an expanded view of the region labeled with a letter C is Fig. 9;
  • Fig. 13 is front view of the electrolytic reactor of Fig. 7 with its front cover removed;
  • Fig. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the electrolytic reactor of Fig. 7 along line B-B not showing the cell contents in the central cells;
  • Fig. 15 is a top view of an electrolytic cell ready for insertion into the electrolytic reactor of Fig. 14;
  • Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the electrolytic reactor of Fig. 7 along line B-B only showing one electrolytic cell
  • Fig. 17 is an isometric view of a filtration apparatus for use with the wastewater treatment system of Fig. 1;
  • Fig. 18 is an exploded view of two plates of the filtration apparatus of Fig. 17;
  • Fig. 19 is a cross-sectional view of a plate of the filtration apparatus of Fig. 18 along line A-A;
  • Fig. 20 is a cross-sectional view of a wastewater aerator for use with the wastewater treatment system of Fig. la;
  • Fig. 21 is a cross-sectional view of catalytic filtration apparatus for use with the wastewater treatment system of Fig. 1; and Fig. 22 is a cross-sectional view of the catalytic filtration apparatus of Fig. 21 along line A-A.
  • the present invention is a wastewater treatment system and method of operation thereof.
  • Fig. 1 is a schematic view of a wastewater treatment system 10 that is constructed and operable in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention.
  • Wastewater typically produced by an industrial process is initially filtered by a filtration apparatus 12.
  • wastewater typically refers to water containing impurities due to an industrial process
  • wastewater as used herein implies any water which contains impurities independent of how the impurities became disposed therein, including a process stream.
  • Filtration apparatus 12 is configured to filter particles which are 100 microns or larger. Therefore, filtration apparatus 12 removes large particles, including grease particles which could damage other parts of wastewater treatment system 10, especially the electrolytic reactor 22 discussed below. Filtration apparatus 12 is discussed in more detail with reference to Fig. 2.
  • the wastewater filtered by filtration apparatus 12 is pumped through a one-way valve 14 by a pump 16.
  • One-way valve 14 prevents the wastewater from flowing back into filtration apparatus 12.
  • Pump 16 is typically a stainless steel centrifugal pump which is capable of pumping 5000 liters of liquid per hour. Pump 16 pumps the wastewater at a very low pressure of approximately 1.5 bars to ensure that the flow of the wastewater through wastewater treatment system 10 is kept laminar for the sections of wastewater treatment system 10 relating to electrolysis of the wastewater and sedimentation filters.
  • the flow rate of the wastewater is controlled by a regulation valve 18.
  • the flow rate of the wastewater at this stage is checked by a flow-meter 20.
  • the flow rate of the wastewater entering electrolytic reactor 22 is very important.
  • regulation valve 18 is operated automatically by a computerized control unit 24 which processes flow rate measurements taken in various parts of wastewater treatment system 10, for example by flow-meter 20, as well as temperatures in electrolytic reactor 22. In accordance with an alternate embodiment of the present invention, regulation valve 18 is operated manually based on flow rate and temperature measurements.
  • Electrolytic reactor 22 as well as all the other apparatus of wastewater treatment system 10 are powered by a central power unit 52.
  • the wastewater then enters a wastewater sedimentation apparatus 26. Particles in the wastewater settle to the bottom of wastewater sedimentation apparatus 26 into a sludge tank 28.
  • Sludge tank 28 has a outlet valve 30 to allow emptying of sludge tank 28 of sludge. Wastewater sedimentation apparatus 26 is discussed in more detail with reference to Fig. 5.
  • the wastewater is then pushed out of the top of sedimentation apparatus 26 due to water build therein.
  • the wastewater then enters a water divider 34 which divides the wastewater into four separate streams for processing by electrolytic reactor 22. It is important for the flow rates of each stream to be substantially identical so that all the wastewater undergoes the same amount and type of processing within electrolytic reactor 22.
  • the means for achieving substantially identical flow rates is described in more detail with respect to Fig. 8.
  • the wastewater is processed by electrolytic reactor 22 which first recovers any precious metal ions, such as gold, silver, cobalt and platinum from the wastewater and then performs an electrolysis process which produces hydroxyl ions which precipitate the positive base metal ions or cations from the wastewater as metal hydroxides.
  • Electrolytic reactor 22 is described in more detail with reference to Figs. 6 to 16.
  • the wastew r ater exits electrolytic reactor 22 in three streams.
  • One stream 36 contains mainly metals and the other two streams 38 contain non-metal substances such as organic substances.
  • Stream 36 is a high pH level (alkaline) and two streams 38 have a low pH level (acidic).
  • Stream 36 now enters a sedimentation apparatus 40 which is configured to cause the precipitated metals to sediment to the bottom of sedimentation apparatus 40.
  • Sedimentation apparatus 40 has a sludge tank 44.
  • Sedimentation apparatus 40 is substantially the same as wastewater sedimentation apparatus 26.
  • Stream 38 now enters a sedimentation apparatus 42 which is configured to cause the non-metal substances to sediment to the bottom of sedimentation apparatus 42.
  • Sedimentation apparatus 42 has a sludge tank 46.
  • Sedimentation apparatus 42 is substantially the same as wastewater sedimentation apparatus 26.
  • stream 36 is treated separately from stream 38.
  • the main reason for treating stream 36 and stream 38 separately is that stream 36 which contains the metals typically requires a more aggressive process which typically includes using catalysts for removing metals from the wastewater. These catalysts are very expensive and if they are used with stream 38, these catalysts are wasted on removing organic substances which do not require such an aggressive treatment.
  • the wastewater is generally processed to a higher degree of purity when stream 36 and streams 38 are treated separately. This is because the metal hydroxides in stream 36 may be dissolved back into the wastewater if mixed with the acidic wastewater of streams 38. Therefore, it is desirable according with this most preferred embodiment of the present invention to treat stream 36 and stream 38 separately.
  • the metal stream 36 and the non-metal stream 38 are now combined for the remainder of the wastewater treatment processing.
  • Semi-permeable balloon 50 is especially effective at filtering the metal hydroxide gels, but is also effective for filtering more crystalline structures.
  • Semi- permeable envelope 50 has an inlet 54 configured to allow the wastewater to enter semi- permeable envelope 50.
  • Semi-permeable envelope 50 has a plurality of holes 56. The diameter of the holes is within the range of 100 to 150 microns. When the impurities in the wastewater adhere near holes 56, the water pressure inside semi-permeable envelope 50 increases.
  • Semi-permeable envelope 50 is typically formed from a jersey knit fabric which uses polyamide thread. Polyamide is a preferred fiber as it has good stretching qualities.
  • the wastewater leaves tank 48 from the bottom thereof and enters a tank 58.
  • Tank 58 has a sedimentation apparatus 60 therein.
  • the wastewater is pumped up through tank 58 and tank 64 successively by a pump 62. Impurities within the wastewater are caused to sediment within sedimentation apparatus 60.
  • Sedimentation apparatus 60 is described in more detail with reference to Figs. 17, 18 and 19.
  • Pump 62 is typically a centrifugal pump. Pump 62 is substantially the same as pump 16. Pump 62 pumps the wastewater from the top of tank 58 into a tank 64.
  • a semi-permeable envelope 66 is used to filter the wastewater which is entering tank 64.
  • Semi-permeable envelope 66 is formed substantially the same way as semi-permeable envelope 50.
  • Aeration apparatus 68 includes a pipe 70 configured for connection to a fluid supply, such as water which is pumped back by pump 62 after this water has already left tank 64 or air via a central air compressor 32. It is important for the wastewater to be aerated at this stage in order to prepare the wastewater for later treatment by catalysts, in catalytic columns 88 as described below, which require oxygenated water for their effective performance at removing metals.
  • Aeration apparatus 68 also includes a discharge head 72 which has a plurality of very narrow channels disposed therein. The discharge head 72 is configured for insertion into the wastewater which is in tank 64.
  • Aeration apparatus 68 is operationally connected to pipe 70 such that, when the fluid supply is activated, the fluid from the fluid supply flows through pipe 70 and through the channels of discharge head 72 into the wastewater which is in tank 64.
  • the cross-sectional area of the channels of discharge head 72 is small enough that when the fluid supply is activated, a low pressure region is set up in the wastewater adjacent to the channels of discharge head 72 caused by the fast speed of the fluid exiting the channels of discharge head 72.
  • Each of these channels typically has a diameter of approximately 0.8mm. This low-pressure region causes the wastewater to enter this low-pressure region at high speed so that parts of the wastewater collide with other wastewater and/or the fluid supply producing a plurality of micro-bubbles which aerate the wastewater.
  • a wastewater level sensor 76 is disposed in tank 64.
  • Level sensor 76 is configured in conjunction with computerized control unit 24 to stop pump 62 when the wastewater level in tank 64 is down to the top of discharge head 72 of aeration apparatus 68.
  • level sensor 76 in conjunction with computerized control unit 24 activates pump 62.
  • level sensor 76 in conjunction with computerized control unit 24 stops pump 16 until the wastewater level within tank 64 drops to the half full level.
  • a filtration apparatus 262 which is substantially the same as filtration apparatus 12 filters the wastewater in tank 48 as it leaves tank 48. It should be noted that filtration apparatus 262 generally has a filtration specification of 50 micron. Sedimentation apparatus 60 removes impurities from the wastewater within tank 58. In this alternate embodiment, filtration apparatus 262 replaces semi-permeable balloons 50.
  • a wastewater aerator 78 is disposed between tank 58 and tank 64. Aerator 78 oxygenates the wastewater as well as quickening the flow of the wastewater from tank 58 to tank 64. Aerator 78 is described in more detail with reference to Fig. 20.
  • Tank 64 also includes aeration apparatus 68 with pipe 70 and discharge head 72. Tank 64 also includes level sensor 76.
  • Flow meter 82 measures the flow rate of the wastewater to ensure that the wastewater is not flowing too fast for processing by the next stages of wastewater treatment system 10 which include catalyst processing.
  • Flow meter 82 is configured in conjunction with computerized control unit 24 to regulate the flow of the wastewater by controlling pump 62. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art of water treatment by catalysts how the flow rate of the wastewater needs to be adjusted depending on the volume and type of catalyst as well as the number of impurities still within the wastewater.
  • the wastewater now enters a mechanical filter 84 having a filtering specification of 50 microns.
  • the wastewater then enters a second mechanical filter 86 having a filtering specification of 5 microns.
  • Mechanical filters meeting these specifications are known to those skilled in the art.
  • Catalytic columns 88 are either arranged in: (i) parallel, as illustrated, such that the wastewater exiting mechanical filter 86 is divided among catalytic columns 88 for processing; or (ii) in series, such that the wastewater exiting mechanical filter 86 flows through each of catalytic columns 88. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that appropriately placed bypass pipes and valves will enable switching between a serial and parallel set up of catalytic columns 88.
  • catalytic columns 88 are arranged in parallel it is important to ensure that each catalytic column 88 processes the same amount of the wastewater so that the catalysts within catalytic columns 88 are exhausted at the same time so that the catalysts can be replaced at the same time. This can be achieved by varying the quantity of the catalysts within catalytic columns 88 to adjust for the non-uniform flow of the wastewater among the catalytic columns 88, such that the catalysts are exhausted at the same time. It should be noted that between 80% to 90% of the impurities within the wastewater have been removed before the wastewater arrives at catalytic columns 88. Catalytic columns 88 are configured to remove the metals which still remain in the wastewater. Catalytic columns 88 are described in more detail with reference to Figs. 21 and 22.
  • the wastewater now flows through a series of diagnostic equipment including a flow rate meter 90 and a water analyzer 92, which is configured to analyze the conductivity and pH level of the exiting wastewater.
  • the information recorded by flow rate meter 90 and water analyzer 92 is typically sent by a modem 94, which is controlled by computerized control unit 24, to a service control center to monitor the performance of wastewater treatment system 10.
  • a filtration apparatus 96 is constructed in the same way as filtration apparatus 12, but filtration apparatus 96 is configured to filter particles which are 5 microns or larger.
  • Fig. 2 is an isometric view of filtration apparatus 12 for use with wastewater treatment system 10 of Fig. 1.
  • Fig. 3 which is a top view of a filtration element 98 for use with filtration apparatus 12.
  • Fig. 4 is an axial-sectional view of filtration apparatus 12 of Fig. 2 along line A-A.
  • Filtration apparatus 12 includes a plurality of filtration elements 98 which are configured to filter the wastewater of an impurity. Filtration elements 98 are generally formed from polypropylene.
  • Each filtration element 98 has two major surfaces 104 which are annular. There is a hole 102 in the center of each filtration element 98 which connects surfaces 104 of one filtration element 98.
  • Each of surfaces 104 has a plurality of grooves 100 thereon which connect the outer circumference of surface 104 to the inner circumference of surface 104. Grooves 100 typically have a depth and width of 100 microns. Filtration elements 98 are stacked so that grooves 100 of one surface 104 of one filtration elements 98 are non-aligned with grooves 100 of an adjacent surface 104 of an another filtration element 98. Filtration elements 98 are mechanically connected by four rods 106. Filtration apparatus 12 has a base 108 which is mechanically connected to the lowest filtration element 98 in the stack. At the top of the stack, a pipe 110 connects filtration apparatus 12 to pump 16. Pump 16 pumps the wastewater from a tank 11-2 via filtration apparatus 12.
  • the wastewater in tank 112 enters filtration apparatus 12 through the outer circumference of surfaces 104 via grooves 100, represented by arrows 113. Grooves 100 prevent large particles from passing through surfaces 104.
  • the wastewater then enters a central column 114 of filtration apparatus 12 and is then pumped out of central column 114 by pump 16 represented by an arrow 115.
  • Base 108 prevents the wastewater from entering central column 114 without first flowing through filtration elements 98. Any dirt or grease particles which are lodged in or near grooves 100 of filtration elements 98 are cleaned by compressed air which is blown in pulses, during normal operation of filtration apparatus 12, via an air tube 116 into central column 114 by central air compressor 32.
  • Sedimentation apparatus 26 includes a water tank 118 having an inlet 120 which is configured to allow entry of the wastewater into tank 118.
  • Sedimentation apparatus 26 also includes a plurality of deflecting elements 122 disposed within tank 118. Deflecting elements 122 are configured to enhance sedimentation of the wastewater within tank 118. Each of deflecting elements 122 is substantially a truncated cone which has one or more radial projections 124 configured to enhance the sedimentation process. There are typically thirty five deflecting elements 122 in tank 118. Deflecting elements 122 typically have a diameter of 170 mm.
  • Sedimentation apparatus 26 also includes a distribution member 126 disposed within tank 118. Distribution member 126 is configured to distribute the wastewater which enters tank 118 among deflecting elements 122. Distribution member 126 is a perforated pipe. The holes of distribution member 126 typically have a diameter of 4 mm. There are typically six holes in distribution member 126 for distributing the wastewater to each deflecting element 122. Deflecting elements 122 and distribution member 126 are co-axially arranged. Sedimentation apparatus 26 also includes a plurality of spacer members 128. Each spacer member 128 is disposed between distribution member 126 and two of deflecting elements 122.
  • Distribution member 126 has a group of one or more entry holes 125 for each spacer members 128, to allow the wastewater to enter each spacer members 128.
  • Each spacer member 128 has an equal number of exit holes 127 corresponding to entry holes 125. Exit holes 127 allow water to exit from each spacer member 128 to between two deflecting elements 122. Exit holes 127 have a larger cross-sectional area than entry holes 125 thereby preventing turbulent flow of the wastewater when it exits distribution member 126. Therefore, spacer members 128 maintain a laminar flow of the wastewater within tank 118 in order to enhance sedimentation of the wastewater. the wastewater exits tank 118 via a pipe 119. Any gas accumulating at the top of tank 118 is removable by opening a gas release valve 121. Release valve 121 is either manual or automatically operated by computerized control unit 24.
  • Fig. 6 is a schematic illustration of laminar flow through an electric field for use with a wastewater treatment system that is constructed and operable in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • a laminar flow of wastewater it is important to maintain a laminar flow of wastewater during electrolytic purification. It is also important that the wastewater comes into contact with the electrodes as much as possible. This is generally difficult with a laminar flow of wastewater. Additionally, for the process to be commercially viable it must allow for a high throughput of wastewater. A high velocity of water flowing between the electrodes enhances the electrolytic purification process. Therefore, it is important to maintain a fast laminar flow of wastewater where the wastewater comes into contact with the electrodes and all portions of the wastewater are travelling with the same speed between the electrodes.
  • wastewater enters a first vertical chamber 130.
  • a pair of electrodes 132 is disposed inside a second vertical chamber 134. Electrodes 132 are very close to each other and therefore the wastewater flowing through second vertical chamber 134 comes into close contact with electrodes 132.
  • the horizontal cross-sectional area of first vertical chamber 130 is much greater than the horizontal cross-sectional area of second vertical chamber 134. Therefore, even if water is added laminarly to first vertical chamber 130, this introduction causes a highspeed laminar flow of the wastewater in second vertical chamber 134 between electrodes 132.
  • first vertical chamber 130 The flow of wastewater from first vertical chamber 130 to second vertical chamber 134 is caused by air pressure in first vertical chamber 130 and second vertical chamber 134 equalizing the water levels of the wastewater in first vertical chamber 130 and second vertical chamber 134.
  • second vertical chamber 134 As the outlet of second vertical chamber 134 is lower than the inlet of first vertical chamber 130, an addition of water to second vertical chamber 134 causes the wastewater to flow through and out of second vertical chamber 134. Therefore, high speed, laminar flow of wastewater is achieved using the above principle.
  • first vertical chamber 130 should have contours which do not promote turbulent water flow. If first vertical chamber 130 has sharp corners, such as square corners, then these corners may set up a turbulent water flow within first vertical chamber 130 as is the case with prior art reactors such as that of U.S.
  • FIG. 7 is an exploded isometric view of electrolytic reactor 22 for use with wastewater treatment system 10 of Fig. 1.
  • Fig. 8. which is a cross-sectional view of electrolytic reactor 22 of Fig. 7 along line A-A.
  • the wastewater is divided by water divider 34 into four streams.
  • the first stream enters electrolytic reactor 22 through an inlet 136 into a vertical chamber 138 of electrolytic reactor 22.
  • Vertical chamber 138 as well as the other vertical chambers of electrolytic reactor 22 are typically 45 mm wide, up to 600 mm high and 110 mm deep.
  • the second stream enters electrolytic reactor 22 through an inlet 140 into a vertical chamber 142 of electrolytic reactor 22.
  • the third stream enters electrolytic reactor 22 through an inlet 144 into a vertical chamber 146 of electrolytic reactor 22.
  • the final stream enters electrolytic reactor 22 through an inlet 148 into a vertical chamber 150 electrolytic reactor 22.
  • Inlets 136, 140, 144, 148 are disposed within a front cover 162 of electrolytic reactor 22.
  • Gas release valve 131 is disposed in front cover 162 adjacent to vertical chamber 138. Likewise, gas accumulated within vertical chamber 138 exits through gas release valve 131.
  • Gas release valve 131 is either manually operated or automatically operated by computerized control unit 24. Additionally, air hole 123 ensures that the air pressure at the top of vertical chamber 138 and vertical chamber 142 are substantially identical. Similarly, there is an air hole 133 disposed between vertical chamber 146 and vertical chamber 150. Similarly, there is a gas release valve 135 disposed in front cover 162 adjacent to vertical chamber 150. Vertical chambers 138, 142, 146 and 150 are configured for accumulating the wastewater therein. The flow of the incoming wastewater is controlled by computerized control unit 24 such that the wastewater level within vertical chamber 138, 142, 146 and 150 does not exceed the level of air holes 123 and 133, shown by a line 143.
  • vertical chambers 138, 142, 146 and 150 do not have sharp corners which might induce turbulence within the wastewater. Moreover, the contours of vertical chambers 138, 142, 146 and 150 are shaped and rounded in order to maintain a laminar flow of the wastewater within vertical chambers 138, 142, 146 and 150 for the complete flow of the wastewater therein.
  • Electrolytic reactor 22 includes four precious metal recovery apparatuses 152, which recover precious metal ions -from the wastewater by electroplating before the electrolytic purification process begins.
  • Each precious metal recovery apparatus 152 includes an anode 154 and two cathodes 156.
  • One precious metal recovery apparatus 152 is disposed within each of vertical chamber 138, vertical chamber 142, vertical chamber 146 and vertical chamber 150.
  • Precious metal recovery apparatuses 152 are configured to electroplate cathodes 156 with any precious metal ions which are present in the wastewater.
  • Cathodes 156 are typically formed from a material having a high surface area to volume ratio which cannot be achieved with classic solid cathodes such as metals and other conducting materials.
  • the material is typically an absorbent and/or fibrous conducting material formed from a treated fabric or fibers such as a Carbographite material.
  • An absorbent and/or fibrous material increases the available electroplating surface area of cathodes 156.
  • Carbographite is chosen for its strength, long life. Moreover, Carbographite does not significantly decompose, which would add contaminants to the wastewater.
  • Cathodes 156 and anode 154 are typically formed by pyrolysis of discs of viscose fabric. The processed discs of viscose fabric are then stacked in groups of five and each group is then subjected to pyrolysis again.
  • the processed groups of discs are then stacked to form a cylinder 160 which extends to the depth of vertical chambers 138, 142, 146, 150 (see Fig. 14).
  • a conducting metal rod 158 generally formed of solid stainless steel or titanium, is then disposed along the axis of cylinder 160.
  • Precious metal recovery apparatus 152 is powered by connecting conducting metal rod 158 to central power unit 52.
  • Cathodes 156 and anode 154 are connected to central power unit 52 via a plurality of contacts 166 disposed in front cover 162. Cathodes 156 and anode 154 are removed from electrolytic reactor 22 through a plurality of openings 164 in front cover 162. Reference is additionally made to Fig. 9, which is an expanded cross-sectional view of an electrolytic cell of electrolytic reactor 22 of Fig. 8. Electrolytic reactor 22 includes a vertical chamber 168. A pair of electrodes 172 which are configured to produce an electric field are disposed within vertical chamber 168. Pair of electrodes 172 are powered by a DC voltage. Computerized control unit 24 (Fig. 1) in conjunction with central power unit 52 (Fig. 1) is configured to direct high voltage peaks of electricity to pair of electrodes 172.
  • the voltage peaks are typically up to 100 V and up to 50A.
  • the duration of the voltage peaks is typically one fiftieth of a second with a frequency of 50 Hz.
  • Pair of electrodes 172 includes two electrodes, a cathode 180 and. an anode 182. Negative voltage peaks can be applied to pair of electrodes 172 to prevent electroplating of cathode 180.
  • Cathode 180 and anode 182 are typically formed from stainless steel, titanium, carbon-carbon, stainless steel with titanium nitrate plating or stainless steel with a conducting polymer plating.
  • cathode 180 and anode 182 can be protected using a carbon-carbon fabric which also increases the conducting surface area of the electrodes with the wastewater.
  • Cathode 180 and anode 182 can also be protected with an aluminum or iron coating which also aids electrocoagulation.
  • the distance between cathode 180 and anode 182 is typically 6 mm.
  • a plurality of conduits 176 connect vertical chamber 138 with vertical chamber 168 via a plurality of holes 188 which connect the major surfaces of cathode 180.
  • Each hole 188 has a diameter of between 8 mm to 14 mm and a spacing between the centers of holes 188 of between 12 mm to 16 mm.
  • a plurality of conduits 178 connect vertical chamber 142 with vertical chamber 168 via a plurality of holes 200 which connect the major surfaces of anode 182.
  • Vertical chamber 168 includes a plurality of outlet conduits 192 configured to allow exit of the wastewater from vertical chamber 168 via a plurality of holes 196 which connect the major surfaces of cathode 180, after processing of the wastewater by the electric field.
  • Vertical chamber 168 also includes a plurality of outlet conduits 194 configured to allow exit of the wastewater from vertical chamber 168 via a plurality of holes 198 which connect the major surfaces of anode 182, after processing of the wastewater by the electric field.
  • Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view of anode 182 of Fig. 9 along line A-A showing the positioning of holes 200 and holes 198 in anode 182.
  • Vertical chamber 168 also includes a semi-permeable membrane 190 which is disposed half way between pair of electrodes 172. Semi-permeable membrane 190 substantially separates the wastewater which is in vertical chamber 168 into two flows as is discussed below.
  • Semi-permeable membrane 190 is described as "substantially separating" as there is a migration of ions on a micro level which is also discussed below.
  • Semi-permeable membrane 190 is generally formed of polypropylene. The thickness of semi- permeable membrane 190 depends on the current and voltage applied across pair of electrodes 172.
  • semi-permeable membrane 190 needs to be approximately 0.5 mm thick when a voltage of 20 V and a current of 20 A is applied across pair of electrodes 172; (ii) semi-permeable membrane 190 needs to be approximately 1.0mm thick when a voltage of 20 V and a current of 60 A is applied across pair of electrodes 172; and (iii) when a voltage of 20 V and a current of 20A is applied across pair of electrodes 172 two of semi-permeable membrane 190 are required, each having a thickness of 0.5 mm.
  • An addition of the wastewater in vertical chamber 138 causes a substantially laminar flow of a part of the wastewater through conduits 176 via holes 188 into and up through vertical chamber 168. This is due to air pressure causing an equalization of the water levels between vertical chamber 138 and vertical chamber 168.
  • the wastewater enters vertical chamber 168 via holes 188 the wastewater flows parallel to the electric field of pair of electrodes 172.
  • the wastewater flows perpendicular to the electric field of pair of electrodes 172.
  • the wastewater travels with a very low pressure and a high speed of approximately 2 meters per second.
  • the wastewater then exits vertical chamber 168 via holes 196 and outlet conduits 192 into a vertical chamber 202.
  • the wastewater then flows down vertical chamber 202 to exit electrolytic reactor 22 via an outlet 204 in front cover 162.
  • an addition of the wastewater in vertical chamber 142 causes a substantially laminar flow of a part of the wastewater through conduits 178 via holes 200 into and up through vertical chamber 168.
  • the wastewater enters vertical chamber 168 via holes 200 the wastewater flows parallel to the electric field of pair of electrodes 172.
  • the wastewater flows perpendicular to the electric field of pair of electrodes 172.
  • the wastewater then exits vertical chamber 168 via holes 198 and outlet conduits 194 into a vertical chamber 206.
  • the wastewater then flows down vertical chamber 206 to exit electrolytic reactor 22 via an outlet 208 in front cover 162.
  • the energy transferred by pair of electrodes 172 when the wastewater is flowing through holes 188, 200, 198, 196, parallel to the electric field, represents 80%) of the energy transfer by pair of electrodes 172 to the wastewater.
  • the electrolysis of the wastewater by pair of electrodes 172 initiates the precipitation metal ions from the wastewater. Oxidants of up to 150 mg per liter are produced by the electrolysis.
  • the second side of electrolytic reactor 22 includes a vertical chamber 170 having a pair of electrodes 174 which are configured to produce an electric field are disposed within vertical chamber 170. Pair of electrodes 174 includes two electrodes, a cathode 184 and an anode 186. An addition of the wastewater to vertical chamber 146 and vertical chamber 150 is processed in vertical chamber 170 by pair of electrodes 174 in the same way as described above.
  • the wastewater processed by pair of electrodes 174 includes a flow which contains positive metal ions which exits vertical chamber 170 into vertical chamber 202, and a flow which contains negative ions which exits vertical chamber 170 into a vertical chamber 210.
  • the wastewater in vertical chamber 210 flows downward to exit electrolytic reactor 22 via an outlet 212 in front cover 162.
  • Water holes 137, 139, 141 typically each have a diameter of between 20 mm and 40 mm.
  • Air holes 123, 133, water holes 137, 139, 141 as well as gas release valves 131, 135 ensure that separate flows of the wastewater entering electrolytic reactor 22 via vertical chamber 138, 142, 146 and 150 are treated substantially identically by pair of electrodes 174 and pair of electrodes 172 even if the wastewater enters vertical chamber 138, 142, 146 and 150 at different rates and even if gas accumulates at different rates within vertical chamber 138, 142, 146 and 150. This is because air holes 123, 133, water holes 137, 139, 141 as well as gas release valves 131, 135 ensure that the water level within vertical chamber 138, 142, 146 and 150 is kept at substantially the same level, shown by line 143.
  • inlet 136 and inlet 148 are not included. Instead, the wastewater enters via inlet 140 to vertical chamber 142.
  • the wastewater then enters vertical chamber 138 from vertical chamber 142 via water hole 137. Similarly, the wastewater enters via inlet 144 into vertical chamber 146. The wastewater then enters vertical chamber 150 from vertical chamber 146 via water hole 139.
  • Fig. 11 is an expanded view of the region labeled with a letter B in Fig. 9.
  • Fig. 12 is an expanded view of the region labeled with a letter C, which is Fig. 9.
  • an edge protector 214 typically formed from carbon
  • Edge protector 214 typically has a length which is longer that the depth of anode 182 measured perpendicular to the major surfaces of anode 182.
  • an edge protector 216 typically formed from carbon is disposed around holes 196 of cathode 180 when the wastewater exits vertical chamber 168. All entry and exit holes of all the electrodes of electrolytic reactor 22 are protected similarly with edge protectors.
  • Electrolytic reactor 22 includes a shell structure 218 which is typically formed from molded plastic. Shell structure 218 forms vertical chambers 138, 142, 146, 150, 168, 170, 202, 206 and 210. All the vertical chambers have slanted sides, as seen in Fig. 14. The slant angle of the sides is approximately 1.5 degrees.
  • Shell structure 218 also has a plurality of holes 224 at the back of shell structure 218. Holes 224 help electrolytic reactor 22 maintain a low temperature by dissipating heat.
  • Electrolytic cell 226 includes pair of electrodes 172, semi-permeable membrane 190, two flexible plastic outer walls 228, two inner plastic walls 230, and two spacer members 232.
  • Spacer members 232 are formed from a resilient material, such as polyurethane or other resilient plastics.
  • Electrolytic cell 226 is constructed such that when electrolytic cell 226 is inserted into shell structure 218 a pressure fit between flexible plastic outer walls 228, inner plastic walls 230, spacer members 232, pair of electrodes 172 and shell structure 218 ensures that all the wastewater which flows through vertical chamber 168 flows between pair of electrodes 172 and not bypassing pair of electrodes 172.
  • Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view of electrolytic reactor 22 of Fig. 7 along line B-B only showing electrolytic cell 226 inserted into vertical chamber 168 of shell structure 218.
  • the other electrolytic cell of electrolytic reactor 22 is formed and inserted in the same way as electrolytic cell 226.
  • Shell structure 218 has a plurality of threaded screw holes 220 disposed therein configured to enable front cover 162 to be fastened securely to shell structure 218 providing a watertight fit.
  • Front cover 162 has a plurality of holes 222 corresponding to threaded screw holes 220 of shell structure 218.
  • polyurethane glue is applied to all contact surfaces between front cover 162 and shell structure 218. The polyurethane glue forms a foam which provides a very good watertight protection.
  • Sedimentation apparatus 60 includes a plurality of plates 234 which are stacked to form sedimentation apparatus 60. Plates 234 are configured to cause the wastewater to take a non-linear path between the surfaces of plates 234 thereby causing impurities in the wastewater to sediment on the surfaces of plates 234. Plates 234 are typically formed from plastic sheeting with a thickness of approximately 0.2mm. Plates 234 are generally spaced between 8 mm to 20 mm between adjacent plates 234. Reference is now made to Fig. 18, which is an exploded view of two of plates 234 of sedimentation apparatus 60 of Fig. 17.
  • Each of plates 234 has a surface which has a plurality of ridges and grooves 236 thereon. Grooves 236 of one of the surfaces are nonparallel, preferably cross-aligned, with grooves 236 of an adjacent surface in order to cause the wastewater to take a non-linear path between the surfaces of plates 234 thereby causing impurities in the wastewater to sediment on the surfaces of plates 234.
  • Fig. 19 is a cross-sectional view of one of plates 234 of sedimentation apparatus 60 of Fig. 18 along line A-A.
  • Grooves 236 of plates 234 are generally formed by formed by vacuum forming of plastic.
  • the grooves typically have a width and depth of between 8 mm to 20 mm. It should be noted that the exact shape of the grooves is not important, various shapes can be used such as square and rounded shapes.
  • Aerator 78 includes a pipe 238 configured to carry the wastewater from tank 58 to tank 64.
  • Aerator 78 also includes a pipe 240 configured for connection to a fluid supply. Pipe 240 is partially disposed within pipe 238.
  • the fluid supply is either water which is pumped back by pump 62 (Fig. 1) after this water has already left tank 64, air via central air compressor 32 (Fig. 1)
  • Aerator 78 also includes a discharge head 242 having at least one. channel 244.
  • Discharge head 242 has a conical outer surface having an apex that points opposite to the direction of flow of the wastewater in pipe 238.
  • Discharge head 242 is mechanically connected to pipe 240.
  • Channel 244 is configured to operationally connect pipe 240 to pipe 238.
  • Channel 244 has a cross-sectional area which is small enough that when the fluid supply is activated, a low-pressure region is set up in pipe 238. This low-pressure region causes the wastewater to enter this low-pressure region at high speed so that parts of the wastewater collide with other wastewater and/or the fluid supply producing a plurality of micro-bubbles which aerate the wastewater. This low-pressure region also quickens the flow of the wastewater from tank 58 to tank 64.
  • Fig. 21 is a cross-sectional view of a catalytic column 88 for use with wastewater treatment system 10 of Fig. 1.
  • Catalytic column 88 includes a tank 250 and a granular catalyst 246 which is configured to remove impurities, specifically, metals, from the wastewater.
  • Granular catalyst 246 is generally activated carbon, titanium phosphate, circonium phosphate, cationite, or anionite.
  • Granular catalyst 246 is contained within a semi-permeable envelope 248. Semi-permeable envelope 248 prevents granular catalyst 246, as it becomes contaminated, leaking into the wastewater which leaves tank 250 after processing by catalytic column 88.
  • Semi-permeable envelope 248 is configured to stretch when impurities in the wastewater adhere near holes of semi-permeable envelope 248 thereby maintaining a substantially constant throughput of the wastewater through semi-permeable envelope 248.
  • Semi-permeable envelope 248 is formed in a similar manner to semi-permeable envelope 50 described with reference to Fig. 1.
  • Catalytic column 88 includes a water disperser 252 which is configured to distribute the wastewater entering tank 250 over the upper surface of semi-permeable envelope 248 in order to maximize the use of granular catalyst 246.
  • Water disperser 252 is a plate which has a plurality of holes 254 therein. Water disperser 252 is disposed horizontally below the inlet of tank 250. Catalytic column 88 also includes an outlet 258 at the base of tank 250 configured to allow drainage of the wastewater from tank 250. Catalytic column 88 also includes a water integrator 256 configured to prevent any part of semi-permeable envelope 248 from obstructing drainage of the wastewater via outlet 258. Water integrator 256 is a plate, similar to water disperser 252, which has a plurality of holes 260 therein. Water integrator 256 is disposed horizontally above outlet 258.

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Abstract

L'invention concerne un système de traitement d'eaux usées, lequel système comprend un réacteur électrolytique doté d'une première chambre, d'une seconde chambre et d'un conduit. La première chambre est destinée à l'accumulation des eaux usées entrantes. La seconde chambre présente une paire d'électrodes conçues pour produire un champ électrique. Le conduit est conçu pour relier la première chambre à la seconde chambre. Le système est conçu de telle sorte qu'un écoulement des eaux usées à travers le champ électrique soit essentiellement laminaire. Le système de traitement comprend également un système de récupération des métaux précieux ainsi que divers appareils de filtration et de sédimentation, y compris un filtre à enveloppe semi-perméable.
PCT/IL2002/000911 2002-01-08 2002-11-14 Systemes de traitement des eaux usees WO2003057631A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AU2002347584A AU2002347584A1 (en) 2002-01-08 2002-11-14 Wastewater treatment system

Applications Claiming Priority (6)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
IL147519 2002-01-08
IL14752002A IL147520A0 (en) 2002-01-08 2002-01-08 Method and apparatus for multi-stage purification of water
IL14751902A IL147519A0 (en) 2002-01-08 2002-01-08 Method and plant for purifying water by electrolysis
IL147520 2002-01-08
US38758502P 2002-06-12 2002-06-12
US60/387,585 2002-06-12

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2003057631A1 true WO2003057631A1 (fr) 2003-07-17

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PCT/IL2002/000911 WO2003057631A1 (fr) 2002-01-08 2002-11-14 Systemes de traitement des eaux usees

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AU (1) AU2002347584A1 (fr)
WO (1) WO2003057631A1 (fr)

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2009150646A2 (fr) 2008-06-09 2009-12-17 P2W Cy Limited Système pour éliminer par électrocoagulation les contaminants d'une eau contaminée
WO2010144582A1 (fr) * 2009-06-09 2010-12-16 Curt Johnson Système de traitement et de réutilisation de l'eau

Citations (5)

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US3650925A (en) * 1969-06-02 1972-03-21 Ppg Industries Inc Recovery of metals from solution
US5458747A (en) * 1994-01-21 1995-10-17 Electrokinetics, Inc. Insitu bio-electrokinetic remediation of contaminated soils containing hazardous mixed wastes
US5484536A (en) * 1991-09-17 1996-01-16 Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba Filter backwash control method and apparatus
US5885453A (en) * 1995-06-22 1999-03-23 Institut Textile De France And Bio Merieux Device for the physicochemical separation of constituents of a fluid
US6461525B2 (en) * 2000-08-01 2002-10-08 Tetra Process Technologies Method for backwashing granular media filters and bioreactors

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3650925A (en) * 1969-06-02 1972-03-21 Ppg Industries Inc Recovery of metals from solution
US5484536A (en) * 1991-09-17 1996-01-16 Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba Filter backwash control method and apparatus
US5458747A (en) * 1994-01-21 1995-10-17 Electrokinetics, Inc. Insitu bio-electrokinetic remediation of contaminated soils containing hazardous mixed wastes
US5885453A (en) * 1995-06-22 1999-03-23 Institut Textile De France And Bio Merieux Device for the physicochemical separation of constituents of a fluid
US6461525B2 (en) * 2000-08-01 2002-10-08 Tetra Process Technologies Method for backwashing granular media filters and bioreactors

Cited By (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2009150646A2 (fr) 2008-06-09 2009-12-17 P2W Cy Limited Système pour éliminer par électrocoagulation les contaminants d'une eau contaminée
WO2009150646A3 (fr) * 2008-06-09 2010-03-18 P2W Cy Limited Système pour éliminer par électrocoagulation les contaminants d'une eau contaminée
WO2010144582A1 (fr) * 2009-06-09 2010-12-16 Curt Johnson Système de traitement et de réutilisation de l'eau
US8906237B2 (en) 2009-06-09 2014-12-09 Curt Johnson Water treatment and reuse system

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