WO2014136063A2

WO2014136063A2 - Systems and methods for generating and collecting reactive species

Info

Publication number: WO2014136063A2
Application number: PCT/IB2014/059461
Authority: WO
Inventors: Krupakar Murali Subramanian
Original assignee: Krupakar Murali Subramanian
Priority date: 2013-03-06
Filing date: 2014-03-05
Publication date: 2014-09-12
Also published as: WO2014136063A3

Abstract

Systems and methods for generating and collecting reactive species, wherein a system comprises, at least a pair of electrodes; and at least a dielectric component, wherein the pair of electrodes along with the dielectric component forms an enclosed system with a hollow core through which a process gas is allowed to pass and a reactive species may be collected by various means.

Description

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR GENERATING AND COLLECTING REACTIVE

SPECIES

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:

Reactive species such as but not limited to ozone is generated through active modification of injected process gas. Several reactive, transient or metastable species that are generally unstable may be produced by this method. Other reactive species either charged or neutral, such as but not limited to NOx (where x = 1, 2, 3), OH, O, etc can also be produced. But due to the transient nature of these gases the radicals quickly recombine within the fluid. If gases were introduced into the reaction chamber then the transient species could produce reactions within the chamber. However, if the reactive species half life (time duration before half of the original concentration of the reactive species recombine) is longer than the transit time of the generation system then such reactive species may be used to produce many useful reactions.

For example ozone which is an efficient oxidizing agent having clear blue color and pungent odor that is more soluble in water than oxygen, and has many applications mainly in sanitation, textiles, air purification, etc. is one of the desired reactive species. This gas is useful in many different applications, is not only a type reactive species that is difficult to generate but also extremely difficult to store due to its instability at room temperature.

Over the years ozone is traditionally generated by - UV treatment and Corona discharge. UV treatment deemed to be very energy intensive, inefficient and expensive process (through frequent loss of UV lamps). Corona discharges are usually one dimensional in nature and are generated using pointed electrodes that enhance the E-fields at the tip. The Corona discharges consists of many streamers and are also efficient 'N' (nitrogen radicals) species generator. The corona discharges consume excess power, generate high heat that generally requires cooling and results in electrode erosion as well.

Dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) is a third kind of technology that produces relatively uniform discharge. A DBD is a two dimensional discharge and is generated between two plates separated by a dielectric. Further, when the reactive species is generated it is collected by dispersing the reactive species in a fluid, which may form bubbles in the fluid. Since it is generally difficult to reduce the size of the bubbles formed in a fluid without the bubbles coalescing, the present invention describes a new technique to react, absorb or adsorb the reactive species directly into a fluid by reducing the size of the fluid droplets and allowing the droplets to disperse through the gases.

FIELD OF INVENTION:

The present invention relates to systems and methods for generating and collecting reactive species using dielectric-barrier discharge (DBD) devices.

The present invention also relates to systems and methods for collecting reactive species by decreasing the size of the fluid droplets and suspend within or allowing the fluid droplets to pass through the reactive species as this increases the surface area of fluid available to the reactive species thus resulting in an increased concentration of the reactive species within the fluid. The present invention further explains the applications of the reactive species generated using the described techniques for sterilization and disinfection applications.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS:

FIGURE 1, is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an exemplary system for generating and collecting reactive species.

FIGURE 2, is the longitudinal cross-sectional view of an exemplary system for generating and collecting reactive species.

FIGURE 3 and FIGURE 4, are isometric view of an exemplary system for generating and collecting reactive species.

FIGURE 5 and FIGURE 6, are transverse cross-sectional view of an exemplary system for generating and collecting reactive species.

FIGURE 7, shows a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an alternate configuration of an exemplary system for generating and collecting reactive species.

FIGURE 8, shows the external isometric view of the system as shown in FIGURE 7. FIGURE 9, represents a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an exemplary system for generating and collecting reactive species.

FIGURE 10, represents a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an exemplary system for generating and collecting reactive species.

FIGURE 11, represents a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an exemplary system for generating and collecting reactive species.

FIGURE 12, represents two views of longitudinal cross-section of an exemplary system for generating and collecting reactive species.

FIGURE 13, represents longitudinal cross-sectional view of an exemplary system for generating and collecting reactive species.

FIGURE 14, represents external isometric view of an exemplary system for generating and collecting reactive species.

FIGURE 15, represents isometric view of an exemplary system for generating and collecting reactive species.

FIGURE 16 and FIGURE 17 represents examples of collecting system for reactive species generated by the systems and methods of the present invention.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:

In various aspects, the present invention involves systems and methods for generating and collecting reactive species, wherein a system comprises,

at least a pair of electrodes; and

at least a dielectric component,

wherein the pair of electrodes along with the dielectric component forms an enclosure system to with a hollow core through which a process gas is allowed to pass and a reactive species may be collected by various means.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION:

In one aspect, the present invention involves systems and methods for generating and collecting reactive species, wherein a system comprises,

at least a pair of electrodes; and

at least a dielectric component, wherein the pair of electrodes together forms an enclosure with a hollow core, and wherein the pair of electrodes comprises at least one inner electrode component, wherein the inner electrode component is extended transversely into the hollow core of the enclosure, and wherein the inner electrode component is fragmented, and

wherein the differentially charged fragments of inner electrode component are alternately placed, and/or optionally are staggered with respect to each other, and

wherein the dielectric component substantially covers the surface of the electrodes within the hollow core to substantially reduce or eliminate direct discharge paths between differentially charged electrodes.

In another aspect, the present invention involves systems and methods for generating and collecting reactive species, wherein a system comprises,

at least a pair of electrodes; and

at least a dielectric component,

wherein the pair of electrodes are fragmented, wherein one or more fragments have at least one portion of the surface ending in a cone or point or a convergent tip, and

wherein the differentially charged electrodes have at least portion of their surface ending in a cone or point or a convergent tip, and

wherein the dielectric component forms a cylindrical enclosure with a hollow core, and wherein the dielectric component optionally extends over the surface of the electrode fragments separating the electrodes or electrically isolating the pathway of a fluid flowing through the hollow core.

Alternatively, the pair of electrodes are fragmented, wherein one or more fragments may be of a shape such as but not limited to flat plate, flat conical plate, pointed, contoured plate, hemispheres, hyperboloids, ellipsoids, pointed shapes with exposed surfaces having contour(s), cylinders, or any combination thereof.

at least a pair of electrodes; and at least a dielectric component,

wherein one of the electrodes of the pair of electrodes is fragmented and the fragments are separated by the dielectric component, and

wherein the electrode which is fragmented, along with the dielectric component forms a cylindrical enclosure with a hollow core, and

wherein one of the electrodes of the pair of electrodes is held in a suspended position within the hollow core, and

wherein the electrode held is the suspended position within the hollow core is suspended by means of an insulating material, and

wherein the electrode held in the suspended position may optionally be at a floating potential that is not driven by an external voltage source.

Typically, the electrode which is held in the suspended position may be hollow or solid and may vary in shapes such as but not limited to pointed, flat, cylindrical, conical, parallelepiped, spheres, hemispheres, hyperboloids, or any combination thereof.

at least a pair of electrodes; and

at least a dielectric component,

wherein the one of the electrodes of the pair of electrodes is held in place by a perforated component, and

wherein the perforated component also serves the purpose of mixing process gases,

wherein the other electrode of the pair of electrodes is optionally placed opposite to the electrode held in place by the perforated component that may or may not be a conductor, and

wherein the electrode is held in place by the perforated component may extend into or out of a region within the surrounding outer electrode,

wherein the electrode held in place by the perforated component is separated from the other electrode by the dielectric component, and

wherein the pair electrodes, the dielectric component and the perforated components together forms an enclosure with a hollow core. In another aspect, the present invention involves systems and methods for generating and collecting reactive species, wherein a system comprises,

at least a pair of electrodes; and

at least a dielectric component,

wherein the pair of electrodes are in the form of mesh of wires optionally encapsulated by insulator, wherein the wires are mounted on a wire-holder, and

wherein the dielectric component encapsulates the wire-holder, wherein differentially charged electrodes are encapsulated by the dielectric component such that there is substantial reduction or elimination of direct discharge paths between differentially charged electrodes.

In an embodiment of the invention, the wire may be a solid or hollow of a suitable length, width, cross-sectional diameter, flexibility, ductility, malleability, elasticity, or the like.

at least a pair of electrodes; and

at least a dielectric component,

wherein each of the at least a pair of electrodes is covered on all sides by the dielectric component, and

wherein each of such said at least a pair of electrodes that is covered on all sides by the dielectric component is place in staggered orientation as opposed to eclipsed orientation with respect to each another.

In another aspect, the present invention involves systems and methods for generating and collecting reactive species, wherein the method comprises the steps of,

a) generating a potential difference between at least a pair of electrodes, wherein the pair of electrodes together forms an enclosure with a hollow core;

b) developing a high density of reactive species around at least one inner electrode component formed by the pair of electrodes, wherein the inner electrode component is extended transversely into the hollow core of the enclosure, and wherein the inner electrode component is fragmented; and

c) collecting high density reactive species from the hollow core of the enclosure;

wherein the differentially charged fragments of inner electrode component are alternately placed with respect to each other, and

wherein a dielectric component substantially covers the surface of the electrodes within the hollow core to substantially reduce or eliminate direct discharge paths between differentially charged electrodes.

In another aspect, the present invention involves systems and methods for generating and collecting reactive species, wherein method of assembling the system comprise the steps of,

(a) forming an enclosure with a hollow core with at least a pair of electrodes and at least a dielectric component together, wherein the pair of electrodes comprises at least one inner electrode component;

(b) extending the inner electrode component transversely into the hollow core of the enclosure, wherein the inner electrode component is fragmented; and

(c) placing differentially charged fragments of inner electrode component alternately with respect to each other;

In an embodiment of the invention, the systems of the present invention individually or aggregately may be enclosed with an insulation material which may include but is not limited to conductors, metals, non-metals, alloys, insulators, semiconductors, glass, quartz, ceramic, fibre glass, mica, graphite, carbon fibres, carbon nanotubes, or any other nano materials or any combination thereof.

In an embodiment of the invention, the systems and methods of the present invention may generate various types of charged particles or mediums such as but not limited to reactive species, plasma, and the likes. In an embodiment of the invention, the reactive species generated by the systems and methods of the present invention or by a method available and known to person skilled in the art may be dissolved or adsorbed in a fluid such as but not limited to water, oil, waste discharges, or surface of solids or the like.

In an embodiment of the invention, the reactive species generated by the systems and methods of the present invention or by a method available and known to person skilled in the art may be dissolved or adsorbed in a fluid, wherein the fluid could be passing through the system simultaneously as the reactive species are being generated.

In an embodiment of the invention, the reactive species generated by the systems and methods of the present invention or by a method available and known to person skilled in the art may be collected by dissolving or adsorbing the reactive species in a fluid, wherein the reactive species is diffused in the fluid, wherein ultrasonic waves may be induced to the diffusing reactive species.

In an embodiment of the invention, the reactive species generated by the systems and methods of the present invention or by a method available and known to person skilled in the art may be collected by dissolving or adsorbing the reactive species in a fluid, wherein the fluid may be dispersed into droplets and introduced into the reactive species.

In an embodiment of the invention, the reactive species generated by the systems and methods of the present invention may be collected by dissolving or adsorbing the reactive species in a fluid, wherein the source of fluid and reactive species may be placed at any suitable distance from one another.

In an embodiment of the invention, the reactive species generated by the systems and methods of the present invention may be collected and stored in an enclosure in the presence or absence of a fluid. In an embodiment of the invention, the reactive species generated by the systems and methods of the present invention may be directly used for various applications such as but not limited to cleaning, bleaching, disinfecting, sterilization, wound treatment, oxidation, and the like.

In an embodiment of the invention, the reactive species generated treat wound, wherein the wound is healed through single or multiple exposure to reactive species.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of this invention, FIGURE 1, is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a system for generating and collecting reactive species, wherein the system comprises, a pair of electrodes 20 and 20'; and a dielectric component 10', wherein the pair of electrodes together forms an enclosure with a hollow core, and wherein the pair of electrodes comprises an inner electrode component 20", wherein the inner electrode component 20" is extended transversely into the hollow core of the enclosure, and wherein the inner electrode component 20" is fragmented, and wherein the differentially charged fragments of inner electrode component 20" are alternately placed, and/or optionally are staggered with respect to each other, and wherein the dielectric component 10' substantially covers the surface of the electrodes within the hollow core to substantially reduce or eliminate direct discharge paths between differentially charged electrodes. The system is further covered by an insulating material 10 and the inner electrode component 20" is insulated from the pair of electrodes 20 and 20' with the insulating material 10" and 10"' to substantially reduce or eliminate direct discharge paths between differentially charged electrodes. The cylindrical system as visible in the FIGURE 1, is further insulated with insulating lid 100. If the system described herein above is placed one after another in a series manner, the insulating lid 100 substantially reduce or eliminate direct discharge paths between two adjacently placed systems.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of this invention, FIGURE 2, is the longitudinal cross-sectional view of a system for generating and collecting reactive species, wherein the system comprises, a pair of electrodes 20 and 20', and a dielectric component 10', wherein the pair of electrodes together forms an enclosure with a hollow core, and wherein the pair of electrodes comprises an inner electrode component 20", wherein the inner electrode component 20" is extended transversely into the hollow core of the enclosure, and wherein the inner electrode component 20" is fragmented, and wherein the differentially charged fragments of inner electrode component 20" are alternately placed, and/or optionally are staggered with respect to each other, and wherein the dielectric component 10' substantially covers the surface of the electrodes within the hollow core to substantially reduce or eliminate direct discharge paths between differentially charged electrodes. The system is further covered by an insulating material 10 and the inner electrode component 20" is insulated from the pair of electrodes 20 and 20' with the insulating material 10" and 10"' to substantially reduce or eliminate direct discharge paths between differentially charged electrodes. The system is connected to a power source 30, which allows the system to operate.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of this invention, FIGURE 3 and FIGURE 4, are isometric view of a system for generating and collecting reactive species, wherein the system comprises a pair of electrodes 40 and 40', and a dielectric component 30', wherein the pair of electrodes together forms an enclosure with a hollow core, and wherein the pair of electrodes comprises an inner electrode component covered by an insulating material 30"' and held between the pair of electrodes 40 and 40' within an insulating material 30". If the system described herein above is placed one after another in a series manner, the insulating lid 30 substantially reduce or eliminate direct discharge paths between two adjacently placed systems.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of this invention, FIGURE 5 and FIGURE 6, are transverse cross-sectional view of a system placed inside the enclosure 10 of FIGURE 1, for generating and collecting reactive species, wherein only one electrode 40 of the pair of electrodes 40 and 40' of FIGURE 3 and FIGURE 4 is visible. Insulating material 30" covering an inner electrode component, the insulating material 30" and the dielectric component 30' is also visible in the figures. The plasma generation is highest in the zone around the inner electrode component.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of this invention, FIGURE 7, shows a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an alternate configuration of the system for generating and collecting reactive species, wherein the system comprises a pair of electrodes 60 and 60' which is only connected to the inner electrode component 60" covered by an insulating material 50"', and a dielectric component 50' forms an enclosure with a hollow core, and wherein, and insulating material 50" holds the inner electrode component 60" covered by the insulating material 50"' within the hollow core formed by the dielectric component 50'. The entire system in enclosed within an insulating material 50.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of this invention, FIGURE 8, shows the external isometric view of the system as explained in FIGURE 7, wherein the insulating material 50"' covering the inner electrode component 60" of FIGURE 7 is visible and the insulating material 50" holding the inner electrode component 60" of FIGURE 7 is also visible. The insulating material 50 covering the entire system as shown in FIGURE 7 is absent thus visibly exposing the dielectric component 50' forming an enclosure with a hollow core.

Typically, several for such systems can be place together to create highly efficient ozone generators.

Typically, these configurations reduce or eliminate direct arc breakdown between the pair of electrodes.

Alternatively, electrodes of the system may be replaced by ceramic or insulating tubes, wherein only power source may be connected to the system via a conducting material.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of this invention, FIGURE 9, represents a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a system for generating and collecting reactive species, wherein the system comprises, at least a pair of electrodes 80 and 80', wherein the pair of electrodes are fragmented, wherein one or more fragments have at least one portion of the surface ending in a cone or point or a convergent tip; and at least a dielectric component 90, wherein the dielectric component 90 forms a cylindrical enclosure with a hollow core 90', and wherein the differentially charged electrodes 80 and 80' have at least portion of their surface ending in a cone or point or a convergent tip, and wherein the dielectric component 90 extends over the surface of the electrode fragments separating the electrodes or electrically isolating the pathway of a fluid flowing through the hollow core. The entire system in enclosed within an insulating material 70 and the hollow core has an insulating lid 70' with a hole to provide an inlet 101 ', wherein an outlet 101 is at the other opening of the hollow core. The working fluid may pass into the system through inlet 101 ' and the reactive species may be collected at the outlet 101.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of this invention, FIGURE 10, represents a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a system for generating and collecting reactive species, wherein the system comprises, at least a pair of electrodes 102 and 103; and at least a dielectric component 105, wherein one of the electrodes of the pair of electrodes 102 is fragmented and the fragments are separated by the dielectric component 105, and wherein the electrode which is fragmented, along with the dielectric component forms a cylindrical enclosure with a hollow core with an inlet 106 and an outlet 106', and wherein one of the electrodes 103 of the pair of electrodes is held in a suspended position within the hollow core, and wherein the electrode held is the suspended position within the hollow core is suspended by means of an insulating material 104.

Typically, the electrode held in the suspended position 103 is at a floating potential that is not driven by an external voltage source.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of this invention, FIGURE 11, represents a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a system for generating and collecting reactive species, wherein the system comprises, at least a pair of electrodes 108 and 111; and at least a dielectric component 110, 110', wherein one of the electrodes of the pair of electrodes 108 is fragmented and the fragments are separated by the dielectric component 110 and 110', and wherein the dielectric component is divided into fragments 110 and 110', and wherein the electrode which is fragmented 108, along with the dielectric component which is fragmented 110 and 110' forms a cylindrical enclosure, and wherein one of the electrodes 111 of the pair of electrodes is held in a suspended position within the hollow core, and wherein the electrode held is the suspended position within the hollow core is suspended by means of an insulating material 109. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of this invention, FIGURE 12, represents two views of longitudinal cross-section of a system for generating and collecting reactive species, wherein the system comprises, at least a pair of electrodes 113 and 113'; and at least a dielectric component 114, wherein the one of the electrodes 113' of the pair of electrodes is held in place by a perforated component 115, and wherein the perforated component 115 also serves the purpose of mixing process gases, wherein the other electrode of the pair of electrodes 113 is placed opposite to the electrode 113' held in place by the perforated component 115 that may or may not be a conductor, wherein the electrode 113' held in place by the perforated component 115 is separated from the other electrode 113 by the dielectric component 114, and wherein the pair electrodes 113 and 113', the dielectric component 114 and the perforated components 115 together forms an enclosure with a hollow core.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of this invention, FIGURE 13 and FIGURE 14, represents two views, longitudinal cross-sectional and external isometric respectively, of a system for generating and collecting reactive species, wherein a system comprises, at least a pair of electrodes 117 and 117' wherein the pair of electrodes 117 and 117' are in the form of mesh of wires optionally encapsulated by insulator, wherein the wires 117 and 117' are mounted on a wire-holder 116; and at least a dielectric component 118, wherein the dielectric component 118 encapsulates the wire-holder 116, wherein differentially charged electrodes 117 and 117' are encapsulated by the dielectric component 118 such that there is substantial reduction or elimination of direct discharge paths between differentially charged electrodes. FIGURE 14 shows the external isometric view of the system for generating and collecting reactive species of FIGURE 13, wherein the system is enclosed by and insulating material 118'.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of this invention, FIGURE 15, represents isometric view of a system for generating and collecting reactive species, wherein system comprises, at least a pair of electrodes 119; and at least a dielectric component 120, wherein each of the at least a pair of electrodes 119 is covered on all sides by the dielectric component 120, and wherein each of such said at least a pair of electrodes 119 that is covered on all sides by the dielectric component 120 is place in staggered orientation as opposed to eclipsed orientation with respect to each another. EXAMPLE

In one example the reactive species generated is ozone, which in combination with other is oxygen, and nitric oxide may treat wounds. Other gases may also be used for the purpose of treating wound. The following step may be conducted for treating wound:

The infected portion of body of the subject is cleared of any debris and preliminary cleaning is performed. Ozonated water may be used for this purpose. Ozonated water with sufficient amount of dissolved/adsorbed ozone will also help disinfect the wound.

Alternatively, atmospheric pressure plasma may be used for disinfection.

Alternatively, antiseptic cream or bio-compatible disinfecting liquids may be used for disinfection.

The infected portion or the wound is enclosed in a chamber.

The chamber is preferably air tight and some air constricting mechanism is used to keep the gases from escaping. The chamber is optional, and is meant only to help contain the process gases. The gases can be directly applied to the wound in the absence of such a chamber. However, uncontained process gas has the disadvantage of being inhaled by the patient and the healthcare providers, but exposure and thus inhalation may be minimized by wearing a mask. Any escaping gases may be directed away from a subject using an external fan.

First Ozone is used to disinfect the wound. This is accomplished by allowing ozone to flow into the chamber. Any unused ozone and processed gases coming out of the chamber is collected at the other end is disposed off using any of the methods known or obvious to person skilled in the art.

Second the chamber is filled with oxygen and the wound is exposed to oxygen so that the cells could benefit from the direct exposure to the oxygen.

Third the chamber is filled with nitric oxide and this would dilate the blood vessels and veins and improves the blood circulation in the wound area, thus aiding in faster recovery.

Steps one through three is repeated for extended time at various intervals. The sequence can also be interchanged to accomplish the same task. The exact steps and the associated lengths of time can be determined empirically and could vary depending on the kind of wound and the amount of infection. If more gases are to be used, then a similar sequence can be followed, wherein the gases are individually or collectively pumped into the chamber.

The gases could be used independently or simultaneously or in combination with each other.

In an embodiment of the invention, the reactive species generated to treat wound, may be generated by exposure of air to reactive plasma at atmospheric pressure and send the reactive gases thus formed into the chamber. The gases generated in this method will comprise ozone, oxygen, NOx (where x = 1, 2, 3) in various combinations. An optional air filter may be used to prevent airborne particles to enter the process chamber.

In an embodiment of the invention, the chamber may be made of material resistant to corrosion due to ozone such as but not limited to silicone, glass, quartz, stainless steel etc., or could be made of disposable material such as wireframe held plastic material, where the wire frame could be made of stainless steel or the like. Such a wire frame could be collapsible for easy shipment or could be made expandable to fit various sizes or could be a fixed structure of standard size big enough to house various wounds.

In an embodiment of the invention, the chamber may be sealed with the limb or body part of the subject which is inside, is by an inflatable tube that will constrict the gas flow to the chamber and prevent any leaks.

Typically, the chamber may be sealed when reactive gases are being used.

In an example, to prevent the gases from flowing towards a subject who might inhale the reactive gases is to use flaps and fans to blow away the gases leaking away from the patient.

In an example, if an outpatient procedure is to be performed then the wound would have to be closed using some kind of dressing (preferably Ozonated olive oil), antibiotics can be used if so desired. In an example, if a patient can afford it, said device can be installed at the residence and the patient could spend better part of the recovery time with these three gases flowing around the wound as stated earlier.

In an embodiment of the invention, the reactive species generated by the systems and methods of the present invention can be directly mixed with a fluid during the time of its application or may be used for various applications after being mixed with a fluid.

In an embodiment of the invention, the reactive species generated by the systems and methods of the present invention may be used for various applications either after being mixed with a fluid during or after the generation of the reactive species.

In an embodiment of the invention, the reactive species generated by the systems and methods of the present invention may be collected and stored in an enclosure, wherein the enclosure may be cooled by ambient air or through forced cooling using fluids or colloids suspended in fluids through convection or conduction or radiation.

In an embodiment of the invention, the reactive species generated by the systems and methods of the present invention may be mixed with a fluid by mixers, fans, or the like.

EXAMPLE:

In an example of the invention as shown in the FIGURE 16, the ozone generated may be absorbed in a fluid contained within the chamber 121. The ozone may be introduced via the nozzle 125 in form of bubbles 123, which may be broken down to smaller sizes 122 with the help of ultrasonic transducers/ vibrators 124.

This decreases the size of the bubbles of ozone introduced into the fluid, so that it increases the surface area available for the ozone for adsorption and hence the amount of ozone required to achieve the desired ozone concentration in the fluid can be also reduced. Since the bubble size depends on the dimensions in the ozone diffuser used to pump the ozone into the water. It is desired that the ozone diffuser have relatively smaller outlets for ozone diffusion. But there may be practical limit to the achievement of such small dimensions of the diffuser outlet and moreover the amount of ozone that can be pumped through such small outlets may also decrease, and thus reduce the throughput.

In an example of the invention as shown in the FIGURE 17, a noble gas (such as helium) is optionally introduced in a dome-shaped top 135 enclosure.

A system for generating reactive species 132 optionally is placed inside the dome-shaped top the enclosure. Since helium is a light gas it tends to rise above most other gases in the enclosure by entering through helium gas inlet 133.

Process gas such as but not limited to oxygen, is introduced into the system of the invention through the oxygen gas inlet 132'. The light gas such as but not limited to helium 133 may either be introduced along with the process gas such as but not limited to oxygen, or independently. Both gases may also be introduced through the misting system 131, simultaneously, in parallel or in series with the fluids.

Reactive species such as ozone is generated from oxygen when it passes through the plasma generator 132. Ozone is heavier than helium 133 and hence descends downwards where it is adsorbed by the liquid droplets 127 generated by the misting valves 131. The mixture of helium and process gas helps homogenize the plasma and helps formation of reactive gases such as but not limited to ozone as well. Optionally or exclusively ozone sources 134 may be used at various locations around chamber 126 for introducing ozone 129 into it. The position of the misting valves can also be altered accordingly. Ozonated water is collected at 130 from the chamber 126.

For the purpose of this invention, 'fragmented' inner electrode component means component comprising more than one parts which may or may not be connected to one another and may or many not be of similar size or shape or material.

In an embodiment of the invention, the electrodes may be independently or simultaneously arranged parallel or divergent or convergent or zig-zag or staggered with respect to one another and is at an angle between 0 and 360° to each other or the axis passing through the electrode. For the purpose of this invention methods of collection shall include but is not limited to adsorption, absorption, dissolution, reaction or the like.

In an embodiment of the invention, any two electrodes may be arranged parallel or divergent or convergent to one another.

In an embodiment of the invention, space or gap or distance between two electrodes may vary according to its application or requirement.

In an embodiment of the invention, number of electrodes is suitably varied according to its application or requirement.

In an embodiment of the invention, the electrodes have polygonal cross-sectional shape, with optional rounded edges, wherein the polygon comprises 'n' sides, where may be defined as n = 3 (corresponding to a triangle) to infinity (corresponding to a circle).

For the purpose of this invention, 'process gas' or 'processed gas' or 'processing material' or 'processed material' describes matter or object which is being treated by the systems and methods of the present invention to obtain the reactive species.

In an embodiment of the invention, the systems in accordance with the invention may be cooled by circulation of a cooling agent such as but not limited to air, water, nitrogen, hydrogen, freon, helium or the process gas, colloids, gels, colloidal suspensions, fluids or any combination thereof.

In an embodiment of the invention, the electrodes of the present invention may be hollow or solid.

In an embodiment of the invention, the electrodes may be of varying length and varied cross- section. In an embodiment of the invention, the dielectric material may completely or partially cover an electrode.

In an embodiment of the invention, the thickness of the dielectric material may vary at various parts of the electrode.

In an embodiment of the invention, the power supply unit may include but is not limited to capacitor or bulk capacitor, or bank of capacitors, gas excitation or application high voltage potential or by application of time varying voltage also known as AC (alternating current) voltage or RF (radio frequency) energy or any combination thereof.

The terms "electrode" for the purpose of this invention may include but is not limited to a cathode part, an anode part, or any combination thereof, wherein any of the electrode may or may not be charged at an instant.

The terms "fragment(s) or fragmented" or "segment(s) or segmented" for the purpose of this invention may be used alternately and shall deem to include but not limited to any term describing a piece or portion or part or section of a whole component or constituent.

The term cathode part represents any part that is at relatively lower voltage compared to another electrode in the system.

The term anode part represents any part that is at relatively higher voltage compared to another electrode in the system.

In an embodiment of the invention, the components of the present invention may be connected or arranged by using any suitable method and may include without limitation use of one or more of welding, adhesives, riveting, fastening devices such as but not limited to screw, nut, bolt, hook, clamp, clip, buckle, nail, pin, ring. In an embodiment of the invention, the component or the parts of the system may be coated, painted or colored with a suitable chemical to retain or improve its properties, or to improve the aesthetics or appearance.

In the description, any or all numbers disclosed are deemed to be approximate values, regardless whether the word "about" or "approximate" is used in connection therewith. They may vary by 1 percent, 2 percent, 5 percent, or, sometimes, 10 to 20 percent. Whenever a numerical range with a lower limit, RL and an upper limit, Ru, is disclosed, any number falling within the range shall be specifically disclosed. In particular, the following numbers within the range are specifically disclosed: R=RL+k*(Ru-R ), wherein k is a variable ranging from 1 percent to 100 percent with a 1 percent increment, i.e., k is 1 percent, 2 percent, 3 percent, 4 percent, 5 percent,..., 50 percent, 51 percent, 52 percent,..., 95 percent, 96 percent, 97 percent, 98 percent, 99 percent, or 100 percent. Moreover, any numerical range defined by two R numbers as defined in the above is also specifically disclosed.

Furthermore, this invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout the description of the figures. It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being "connected" or "coupled" or "attached" or "fixed" to another element, it can be directly connected or coupled to the other element or intervening elements may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly connected or coupled" to another element, there are no intervening elements present. Furthermore, "connected" or "coupled" as used herein may include wirelessly connected or coupled. As used herein, the term "or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting the invention. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises" or "comprising," when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, or components, but do not preclude or rule out the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, or groups thereof.

The process steps, method steps, protocols, algorithms or the like may be described in a sequential order, such processes, methods, protocol and algorithms may be configured to work in alternate orders. In other words, any sequence or order of steps that may be described does not necessarily indicate a requirement that the steps be performed in that order. The steps of processes described herein may be performed in any order practical. Further, some steps may be performed simultaneously, in parallel, or concurrently.

In addition to the embodiments and examples shown, numerous variants are possible, which may be obvious to a person skilled in the art relating to the aspects of the invention.

The aim of this specification is to describe the invention without limiting the invention to any one embodiment or specific collection of features. Person skilled in the relevant art may realize the variations from the specific embodiments that will nonetheless fall within the scope of the invention.

It may be appreciated that various other modifications and changes may be made to the embodiment described without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

I CLAIM;

1. System for generating and collecting reactive species, wherein the system comprises,

(a) at least a pair of electrodes;

(b) at least a dielectric component; and

wherein the pair of electrodes together forms an enclosure with a hollow core, and wherein the pair of electrodes comprises at least one inner electrode component, wherein the inner electrode component is extended transversely into the hollow core of the enclosure, and wherein the inner electrode component is fragmented, and

2. Method of generating and collecting reactive species, wherein the method comprises the steps of,

d) generating a potential difference between at least a pair of electrodes, wherein the pair of electrodes together forms an enclosure with a hollow core;

e) developing a high density of reactive species around at least one inner electrode component formed by the pair of electrodes, wherein the inner electrode component is extended transversely into the hollow core of the enclosure, and wherein the inner electrode component is fragmented; and

f) collecting high density reactive species from the hollow core of the enclosure;

3. Method of assembling the system of generating and collecting reactive species, as claimed in claim 1, method comprising steps of,

(d) forming an enclosure with a hollow core with at least a pair of electrodes and at least a dielectric component together, wherein the pair of electrodes comprises at least one inner electrode component;

(e) extending the inner electrode component transversely into the hollow core of the enclosure, wherein the inner electrode component is fragmented; and

(f) placing differentially charged fragments of inner electrode component alternately with respect to each other;

4. System for generating and collecting reactive species, as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the various components system individually or aggregately is enclosed with an insulation material selected from a group consisting conductors, metals, non-metals, alloys, insulators, semiconductors, glass, quartz, ceramic, fibre glass, mica, graphite, carbon fibres, carbon nanotubes, or any other nano-materials, and any combination thereof.

5. System for generating and collecting reactive species, as claimed in claim 1, generates various types of charged particles or mediums selected from a group consisting reactive species, plasma, and the likes.

6. System for generating and collecting reactive species, as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the reactive species generated by the system is dissolved or adsorbed in a fluid selected from a group consisting water, oil, waste discharges, or surface of solids, and the like.

7. System for generating and collecting reactive species, as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the differentially charged fragments of inner electrode component are alternately placed and are staggered with respect to each other.

8. System for generating and collecting reactive species, as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pair of electrodes are fragmented, and wherein at least one of the fragments have at least one portion of the surface ending in a cone or point or a convergent tip, and

wherein the dielectric component forms a cylindrical enclosure with a hollow core.

9. System for generating and collecting reactive species, as claimed in claim 8, wherein the dielectric component extends over the surface of the suitably shaped electrode fragments separating the electrodes or electrically isolating the pathway of a fluid flowing through the hollow core.

10. one of the electrodes of the pair of electrodes is fragmented and the fragments are separated by the dielectric component, and

wherein the electrode held is the suspended position within the hollow core is suspended by means of an insulating material.

11. System for generating and collecting reactive species, as claimed in claim 11, wherein at least one electrode is held in the suspended position is at a floating potential that is not driven by an external voltage source.

12. System for generating and collecting reactive species, as claimed in claim 11, wherein electrode which is held in the suspended position is of shapes selected from a group consisting of pointed, flat, cylindrical, conical, parallelepiped, spheres, hemispheres, hyperboloids, and any combination thereof.

13. System for generating and collecting reactive species, as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one of the electrodes of the pair of electrodes is held in place by a perforated component ; and

wherein the other electrode of the pair of electrodes is placed opposite to the electrode held in place by the perforated component; and

wherein the pair electrodes, the dielectric component and the perforated components together forms an enclosure with a hollow core.

14. , wherein the pair of electrodes are in the form of mesh of wires optionally encapsulated by insulator; and

wherein the wires are mounted on a wire-holder; and

wherein the dielectric component encapsulates the wire-holder; and

wherein differentially charged electrodes are encapsulated by the dielectric component such that there is substantial reduction or elimination of direct discharge paths between differentially charged electrodes.

15. System for generating and collecting reactive species, as claimed in claim 15, wherein the wire is solid or hollow and/or of a suitable length, width, cross-sectional diameter, flexibility, ductility, malleability, elasticity, and the like.

16. System for generating and collecting reactive species, as claimed in claim 1, wherein the reactive species generated by the system is dissolved or adsorbed in a fluid, and wherein the fluid can pass through the system simultaneously as the reactive species are being generated.

17. System for generating and collecting reactive species, as claimed in claim 1, wherein the reactive species is collected by dissolving or adsorbing the reactive species in a fluid, and wherein the reactive species is diffused in the fluid, and

wherein ultrasonic waves may be induced to the diffusing reactive species.

18. System for generating and collecting reactive species, as claimed in claim 1, wherein the reactive species is collected by dissolving or adsorbing the reactive species in a fluid, and wherein the fluid may be dispersed into droplets and introduced into the reactive species.

19. System for generating and collecting reactive species, as claimed in claim 1, wherein various applications selected from a group consisting cleaning, bleaching, disinfecting, sterilization, wound treatment, oxidation, deodorization and the like.

20. System for generating and collecting reactive species, as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the reactive species is passed over wound surface placed inside at least one enclosure so as to disinfect the surface.