Ozone generator with a generally spherical corona chamber

Abstract

This invention relates to a novel ozone generator device for the production of high concentrations of ozone by way of a design that permits a process environment that is consonant with the optimum values of hardware and operating variables that thermodynamically favor the production of ozone. The device is characterized by a small corona chamber resulting in a low oxygen retention time, a thermally conductive ducted core permitting circulation of a coolant for cooling the feed oxygen and produced ozone, a spherical corona chamber and electrode geometry promoting a homogeneous high electric field density, operating pressures as high as 2000 psi, free expansion cooling of the oxygen at both the inlet and outlet ports of the device, and the selection of an electrode that ensures the production and maintenance of a homogeneous corona. Also disclosed is a closed-loop ozone generator system wherein unused feed oxygen is recovered and recycled for further processing by the system. Uses of the ozone generator device of this invention is more diverse than uses described in the background by virtue of the increased ozone production of the device over the background art, and includes remediation of biofoulants, biocontaminants, chlorine, chloramines and organic contaminants from drinking and process water, and the removal of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide from flue gases.