Georgia Tech Research Corporation

John A Pierson

Larry Forney

Aklilu T G Giorges

A method of filtering a fluid with components includes providing an alternating pressure. The alternating pressure yields an oscillating transmembrane pressure through volume and pressure variations within a filtration chamber while sealing the filtration chamber. A separation surface can be housed in the filtration chamber wherein an influent is introduced. Components can be concentrated on the separation surface, effectively removing some or all of them from the fluid. To flush the filtration chamber and separation surface, a backwash fluid and components can be introduced and removed from the filtration chamber. While both the components are being concentrated and backwashed, the system can maintain the oscillating transmembrane pressure and varying volume and pressure relative to the separation surface.

Cyclic filtration system

Methods and systems for establishing Taylor-Couette flow in a fluid are provided. Aspects of the disclosed methods and systems incorporate Taylor-Couette flow in combination with a source of radiation to provide more uniform radiation exposure to the fluid and its components. Common problems of non-uniform radiation levels and concentration boundary layer effects in UV reactors are largely eliminated using the methods and devices provided herein. In an exemplary embodiment, the reactor of the present disclosure has a hollow outer cylinder or stator and a rotor positioned therein and smooth walls for both the outer wall of its rotor and the inner wall of the outer cylinder or stator in which the rotor is positioned, the space between which forming the annular fluid gap. In an alternative embodiment, either the surface of the outer wall of the rotor or the surface of the inner wall of the outer cylinder or stator or both wall surfaces could be corrugated or furrowed such that they have a series of alternating peaks and valleys. This 'wavy wall' embodiment provides a more uniform dosage to the fluid parcels formed within the annular gap of the reactor than the smooth wall embodiment.

Systems and methods for disinfection

Methods and systems for establishing Taylor-Couette flow in a fluid are provide. Aspects of the disclosed methods and systems incorporate Taylor-Couette flow in combination with a source of radiation to provide more uniform radiation exposure to the fluid and its components. Common problems of non-uniform radiation levels and concentration boundary layer effects in UV reactors are largely eliminated using the methods and devices provided herein.

Growing community of inventors

Marietta, GA, United States of America

John A Pierson