WO2008096350A2 - Procédé de nettoyage - Google Patents

Procédé de nettoyage Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2008096350A2
WO2008096350A2 PCT/IL2008/000154 IL2008000154W WO2008096350A2 WO 2008096350 A2 WO2008096350 A2 WO 2008096350A2 IL 2008000154 W IL2008000154 W IL 2008000154W WO 2008096350 A2 WO2008096350 A2 WO 2008096350A2
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
computer
washing
laundering
orp
catholyte
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status 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 status listed.)
Ceased
Application number
PCT/IL2008/000154
Other languages
English (en)
Other versions
WO2008096350A3 (fr
Inventor
Lev Gurevich
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Individual
Original Assignee
Individual
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 IL181182A external-priority patent/IL181182A/en
Priority claimed from IL189176A external-priority patent/IL189176A0/en
Application filed by Individual filed Critical Individual
Publication of WO2008096350A2 publication Critical patent/WO2008096350A2/fr
Publication of WO2008096350A3 publication Critical patent/WO2008096350A3/fr
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F35/00—Washing machines, apparatus, or methods not otherwise provided for
    • D06F35/003—Washing machines, apparatus, or methods not otherwise provided for using electrochemical cells

Definitions

  • This invention relates to systems and methods for laundering, in particular with regard to industrial laundering using solution mixtures from electrochemical processes.
  • the washed fabrics contain approximately 2% of the initial detergent, which remains entrained within the fabric, as well as 2 to 5% of the original dirt remains in the washed fabric.
  • the detergents, softeners, bleaches and other chemicals used in the washing process are typically released into the environment. Additionally, byproducts of these chemicals may also be released into the environment.
  • ozone is a gas at room temperature by adding ozone to water resulting in an oxidizing agent allowing the washing of fabrics in water without detergent, however, maintaining the stability over time of the ozone content in the water has proven difficult, which has led to increased use of utilizing electrolytic ally produced oxidants in the wash water.
  • This invention relates to a method for washing and bleaching textiles.
  • the method according to the invention which is carried out by means of an aqueous wash bath containing a detergent substantially free from bleaching agent, is characterized in that said bleaching is performed by incorporating into said wash bath, at the required moment, an aqueous alkaline oxidizing solution containing in particular hydrogen peroxide ions, said aqueous alkaline oxidizing solution being produced electrolytic, immediately before its incorporation into said wash bath, by reducing oxygen at a cathode in an alkaline medium.
  • a similar invention is disclosed in Certificate of Authorship No. SU 1687684 to A.
  • Pulavsky et al. This invention relates to technology and method of machine washing.
  • the method according to the invention which is carried out by passing through washing reservoir of washing solution, which has been electrolytically treated in a cathode chamber of diaphragm electrolyzer, prior to washing.
  • the washing solution is treated to pH level of from 10.0 to 11.5 and Oxidation
  • Redaction Potential of from -600 to -800 mV. Oxygen is injected into the washing solution before washing completion.
  • Charles T. Sweeney which discloses an improved laundry treatment system comprising a washer which is connected to discharge used water to a tank for filtration and recirculation to the washer, and a tank containing water for making up losses in the wash cycle, and an electrolytic cell therein comprising an enclosed compartment.
  • the electrolytic cell comprises an enclosed compartment containing an anode and a cathode supported on the outside and inside respectively of an opening in the wall of the compartment open to the surrounding liquid when the compartment is immersed in the water in said tank for producing mixed oxidants dissolved in the make up water for oxidizing deleterious components without damaging the fabric being washed.
  • United State Patent Application No. 2004/0172985 discloses an electric washing machine which performs a washing process with the use of electrolyzed water.
  • an electrolyzing water level which is lower than a washing water level
  • energizing of an electrolyzing device is activated.
  • air is supplied into an electrolyzing chamber by an air pump, so that water in the electrolyzing chamber is caused to flow, thereby assisting efficient electrolysis of the water.
  • the water thus electrolyzed has an enhanced cleaning capability thereby to improve the washing performance of the washing machine.
  • Step a) can only proceed efficiently in a highly alkaline medium/solution with above mentioned parameters of pH and ORP, such that the following saponification reaction occurs:
  • This reaction allows the soap to soften the water, decompose fatty acids, neutralize amino acids and proteins and remove decomposed substances from linen.
  • This reaction allows bleaching and disinfection to occur, with decomposition of amino acids, proteins, any kinds of dye-stuffs etc.
  • United States Patent No. 6,132,572, to Kim describes an electrolyzer apparatus including anode and cathode units that are alternately arranged in a sandwich type fashion separated from each other by ion exchange membranes.
  • Two inlet streams of water introduced into the apparatus wherein one water stream is routed through the anode sections and the other water stream is routed through the cathode sections, and resulting in two treated water outlet streams, with the anode stream being highly acidic and the cathode stream being highly alkaline that cumulates in an elevated oxidation reduction electric potential ranging from-900 to +1180 mV.
  • This device has several drawbacks, namely: air plugging in the chamber until it does not function properly, and b) the washing effect (washing quality) is estimated on a basis of reflection factors from dirty and clean fabrics and do not take in consideration the amount of residual dirt in the fabric.
  • Another device is disclosed in United States Patent Application
  • the apparatus comprises an electrolysis chamber that uses an ion exchange membrane to separate a cathode section from an anode section of the chamber. Tap water is injected into cathode section and saltwater is injected into the anode section. Electrolysis in the anode section of the electrolysis chamber forms acidic water and HOCI, which has antibacterial and disinfectant properties. In addition, electrolysis in the cathode section of the electrolysis chamber forms alkaline water and sodium hydroxide (NaOH), which has cleansing and reducing properties.
  • NaOH sodium hydroxide
  • the alkaline water and sodium hydroxide is then pumped out of the electrolysis chamber sprayed on embodiments to be cleansed, such as medical devices (endoscopes, dialysis equipment), dishes, etc. After cleansing, the embodiments may then be optionally sprayed with the acidic water and HOCI to sterilize or disinfect the embodiments.
  • the ion exchange membrane includes an anion exchange membrane, a cation exchange membrane, and a neutral membrane.
  • the electrolysis chamber does not include an ion exchange membrane, thereby reducing costs of manufacturing and using the invention.
  • Culvey et al. discloses a redox bipolar cell fabric washing system and method that provides for washing fabrics without the use of any added detergents, fabric softeners, or bleaches, or other chemical al additives.
  • the system includes a conventional fabric washing machine with a redox bipolar cell that through a circulation pump continuously treats the wash water by using mixed oxidants or charged wash water to remove contaminants from the fabric.
  • the redox cell includes housing, a plurality of cathode plates, a plurality of membranes, and a plurality of anodes proximately positioned in an alternate manner with a plurality of flow channels in the housing.
  • the cell produces charged wash water by an electrochemical reaction utilizing electrically charged anodes and cathodes with semi permeable membranes, wherein the oxidation reduction potential of the charged wash water is continuously controlled with a sensor to determine when the fabrics are clean.
  • This invention has many drawbacks such as not being able to provide fully cleaned laundry because use of oxidizing mixture for laundering is not effective. This necessitates the use of many additives, such as enzymes, optical brightener, softener, deodorant etc.
  • the redox potential sensor described cannot measure the laundering solution in real-time inside the tub where fabric or clothes are being laundered.
  • Some embodiments of the present invention are directed to systems and methods for laundering fabrics in processes wherein the pH and ORP levels are kept substantially constant over a long period of time. More particularly, in all of the three steps: a) washing/laundering, b) disinfecting and bleaching and c) rinsing, the solution compositions are retained within strict parameter regimes by means of adding tap water, catholyte or anolyte and additives, responsive to a detected change in the solution composition in the washing machine.
  • Some further embodiments of the present invention provide for real-time in situ monitoring of pH and/or ORP in said steps a)-c).
  • a further embodiment of present invention describes pH and/or ORP control of the catholyte and anolyte, so as to provide an optimized process for providing high quality washing, disinfecting and bleaching and rinsing steps.
  • Yet a further embodiment of present invention is directed to a mixture formulation comprising salts, such as NaCI and KNO 3 to produce many kinds of chlorides, chlorides-oxides and oxides for destroying bright range of colored stains in clothes.
  • salts such as NaCI and KNO 3
  • Yet a further embodiment of present invention provides a reduced cycle time wash and dry process by rinsing clothes in washing machines with a catholyte, allowing a significant decrease in drying time of washed clothes in a drying machine.
  • the catholyte can, according to some embodiments, be used in both the washing and rinsing steps (a) and (c) respectively.
  • Yet a further embodiment of present invention provides optimized use of additive solutions such as enzymes, grease removers, optical brighteners, softeners etc., in said washing and disinfecting and bleaching solutions steps.
  • additive solutions such as enzymes, grease removers, optical brighteners, softeners etc.
  • Another embodiment of present invention provides optimized use of additive solutions to water in membrane-less and membrane apparatus for electrolysis.
  • An additional embodiment of present invention describes a computer- controlled system for laundering, comprising at least one electrolysis apparatus and a pH controlled washing drum.
  • the system may comprise any one or more of an SBW-tunnel washer, a PLC - Programmable Logical Controller, a set of electric valves, pumps, pH sensors and flow meters. In some embodiments, the system comprises all of the above.
  • the system may comprise an additional hydraulic system for additives feeding and activation in a membrane electrolysis apparatus, a salt mixing preparation unit; tanks for catholyte, anolyte, enzyme, grease remover, optical brightener, softener and odorant
  • a computer-controlled laundering method comprising; i) providing at least one catholyte and at least one anolyte from at least one electrolysis apparatus to a washing apparatus; and ii) laundering an item in; a) a washing step in at least a first solution comprising the at least one catholyte under maintained pH and oxidative-reduction potential (ORP); b) a bleaching/disinfecting step in a second solution comprising the at least one anolyte under maintained pH and oxidative-reduction potential (ORP); and c) a rinsing step in a rinsing solution; in said washing apparatus to provide a substantially clean item, wherein at least one of the pH and ORP of at least one of said catholyte introduced into said washing step and said anoly
  • ORP of at least the fluid in said washing step is periodically monitored to achieve said maintained conditions, at least in part by controlling at least the amount of catholyte introduced into said washing step.
  • the term "periodically” as used herein is intended to denote a monitoring which is affected periodically, one to ten times per day.
  • the at least one catholyte and at least one anolyte are produced in a multi-stage electrolysis apparatus.
  • the multi-stage electrolysis apparatus comprises a membrane-less electrolysis apparatus and a membrane electrolysis apparatus.
  • WO 2006/070352 to Ramati et al. teaches a method for laundering textiles comprising washing the textiles using a cation solution (anolyte) and bleaching and disinfecting the textiles using an anion (catholyte) solution.
  • the present invention teaches away from '352 in that the opposite laundering methodology is performed, i.e., the washing step is performed in the catholyte solution and the bleaching/disinfecting step in the anolyte solution.
  • the present invention teaches in-situ (inside the washing tub or tunnel) continuous pH monitoring with feed-back control of additives to maintain the process parameters, which is neither hinted to nor suggested in '352.
  • the present invention teaches the use of a multistage electrolysis apparatus, including a membrane electrolysis module, which was not described or hinted to in '352.
  • This multistage apparatus provides for more efficient washing and bleaching steps due to the improved anolyte and catholyte properties, relative to the single stage electrolysis module of the prior art.
  • the method of the present invention provides the anolyte at a pH value of from 1.3 to 3 and an ORP to Platinum, relative to Ag/AgCI, of from +500 to +1250 mV and the catholyte is provided at a pH in the range of from 11.3 to 12.5 and a range of ORP to Platinum, relative to Ag/AgCI, of from -800 to -95OmV.
  • the laundering method is performed in a washing apparatus selected from a drum washing apparatus and a tunnel washing apparatus.
  • the tunnel washing apparatus may comprise a washing zone, a bleaching - disinfecting zone and a rinsing zone.
  • the washing step may be performed in the washing zone of the tunnel washing apparatus.
  • the pH of the first solution is maintained from catholyte from catholyte tank within a range of 11 to 12.4.
  • ORP of the first solution is maintained within a range of ORP to Platinum, relative to Ag/AgCI, of from -650 to -92OmV.
  • the bleaching/disinfecting step is performed in the bleaching - disinfecting zone of tunnel washing apparatus.
  • the pH of the second solution may be maintained from anolyte from anolyte tank within a range of 1.7 to 2.4.
  • the ORP of the second solution may be maintained within a range of ORP to Platinum, relative to Ag/AgCI, of from +800 to +1200 mV.
  • the rinsing step is performed in the rinsing zone of the tunnel washing apparatus.
  • the pH of the rinsing solution may be maintained within a range of 6.0 to 8.0, and the ORP of the rinsing solution may be maintained within a range of ORP to Platinum, relative to Ag/AgCI, of from -300 to + 300 mV.
  • the catholyte and anolyte are produced by electrolysis of an aqueous solution comprising NaCI at a concentration of from 0.5 to2.5 g/l and KNO 3 at a concentration of from 0.5 to 2.5 g/l.
  • the first solution further comprises at least one washing additive selected from; an enzyme, a grease remover and an optical brightener.
  • the at least one washing additive improves at least one of a washing rate and a washing quality of the washing step.
  • the rinsing step is carried out in a rinsing solution comprising the catholyte and tap water.
  • the rinsing solution may further comprise at least one rinse additive selected from a fabric softener and an odorant.
  • the at least one rinse additive improves at least one of a rinsing rate and a rinsing quality of the rinsing step.
  • the method further comprises a drying step.
  • the drying step time of the present invention may be reduced by up to 50% relative to a standard laundering process.
  • the washing additives may be used in quantities of 20% to 50% relative to a standard laundering process.
  • the additives electrolytic pretreatment allows for up to a ten-fold saving in the use of additives relative to a standard laundering process.
  • Another notable advantage of the method of the present invention is that the substantially clean item comprises less than 1.0 percent of the original contaminant, the contaminant being selected from dirt, microorganisms, odor and stains.
  • a method for laundering of an item comprising; a) a first step of laundering comprising washing in a washing solution of pH from 10.8 to 12.3 and ORP to Platinum, relative to Ag/AgCI, of from - 600 to -900 mV, the washing solution comprising a catholyte in combination with tap water and additives, wherein the pH of the catholyte is from 11.0 to 12.4 and the ORP of the catholyte to
  • Platinum, relative to Ag/AgCI is from -650 to -920 mV; b) a second step of laundering comprising bleaching and disinfecting in a bleaching and disinfection solution, having a pH of from 1.9 to 2.8 and ORP to Platinum, relative to Ag/AgCI, of from +750 to +1160 mV, wherein the bleaching and disinfection solution comprises the anolyte in combination with tap water, wherein the pH of the anolyte ranges from 1.7 to 2.4 and/or ORP to Platinum, relative to Ag/AgCI, of from +800 to +120O mV and c) a third step of laundering comprising rinsing in a rinsing solution, wherein the rinsing solution comprises tap water, catholyte and additives; wherein the pH and ORP in the washing step and in the bleaching/disinfecting step are substantially continuously monitored to achieve the maintained conditions by controlling the amount of catholyte and anolyte respectively introduced
  • a computer-controlled laundering system comprising; i) at least one electrolysis apparatus; and ii) a washing apparatus comprising at least one washing chamber with in situ controllers for maintaining the pH and oxidative-reduction potential
  • the at least one electrolysis apparatus may comprise a membrane-less electrolysis apparatus and a membrane electrolysis apparatus.
  • the at least one electrolysis apparatus is configured to produce an anolyte having a pH value of from 1.3 to 3 and an ORP to Platinum, relative to
  • Ag/AgCI of from +500 to +1250 mV and a catholyte having a pH in the range of from 11.3 to 12.5and an ORP to Platinum, relative to Ag/AgCI, of from -800 to - 95OmV.
  • the washing apparatus is selected from a drum washing apparatus and a tunnel washing apparatus.
  • the tunnel washing apparatus may comprise a washing zone, a bleaching - disinfecting zone and a rinsing zone.
  • the washing zone is configured and operative to maintain a washing solution at a first pH and first ORP
  • the bleaching - disinfecting zone is configured and operative to maintain a disinfecting and bleaching solution at a second pH and second ORP
  • the rinsing zone is configured and operative to maintain a rinse solution at a third pH and third ORP.
  • the computer-controlled laundering system may further comprise a reverse osmosis apparatus, configured to supply purified water to the at least one electrolysis apparatus.
  • the membrane electrolytic module comprises an ion exchange membrane.
  • the ion exchange membrane is typically disposed between at least one cell for collecting anolyte and at least one other detached cell for collecting catholyte.
  • the at least one anolyte cell is configured to provide anolyte of a pH value of from 1.3 to 3 and an ORP to platinum, relative to Ag/AgCI, of from +500 to +1250 mV.
  • the at least one catholyte cell is configured to provide catholyte of a pH value of from 11.3 to 12.5 and an ORP to platinum, relative to Ag/AgCI , of from -800 to -95OmV.
  • the computer-controlled laundering system may be constructed with the at least one anolyte cell including an anode housing with an inlet and an outlet nozzle, wherein ratio in cross section between the inlet and outlet nozzle is around 1 :2.
  • the computer-controlled laundering system may include the at least one catholyte cell comprising a cathode housing with an inlet and an outlet nozzle, wherein ratio in cross section between the inlet and outlet nozzle is around 1:2.
  • the computer-controlled laundering system, including the membrane electrolysis apparatus may comprise an anode with an MMO coating from RuO 2 and Ir ⁇ 2 in a ratio of 1 : 1.
  • the computer-controlled laundering system of the present invention includes a system, substantially as shown in the figures.
  • FIG. 1 is a simplified diagram of an industrial drum washing system in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention
  • Fig. 2 is a simplified diagram of an industrial tunnel washing system in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.
  • Fig. 3 is a simplified flowchart of a method for laundering, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.
  • Fig. 4 is a simplified flowchart showing sub-steps of step 310 of Fig. 3.
  • Some embodiments of the present invention are directed to systems and methods for laundering fabrics in processes wherein the pH and ORP levels are kept substantially constant over a long period of time. More particularly, in all of the three steps: a) washing/laundering, b) disinfecting and bleaching and c) rinsing, the solution compositions are retained within strict parameter regimes by means of adding tap water, catholyte or anolyte and additives, responsive to a detected change in the solution composition in the washing machine.
  • Fig.1 is a simplified diagram of an industrial washing system 100 having a drum washing machine or washer 23 in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.
  • Fig. 2 is a simplified diagram of an industrial tunnel washing system 200 comprising a tunnel washer 22, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention
  • the present invention achieves pH and ORP stability within a drum washing machine 23 (Fig. 1) and/or within a tunnel washing machine 22 (Fig. 2) by providing constant monitoring of washing, bleaching and disinfection solutions parameters and immediately correcting any of the parameters upon deviation thereof from an upper and a lower limit.
  • FIG. 3 are very similar. Identical reference numerals refer to similar or identical parts in different figures and the following description refers to both Fig. 1 and Fig. 2.
  • Tap water is fed to inlet electric cock 1 and divided into two streams: a) one to the washing machines - drum washer 23 and to tunnel washer -CBW 22 and the other b) to salt tank 41 and membrane-less electrolysis apparatus 2 and through regulating valve 8, flow-meter 9 to inlet nozzle 10 of an anolyte chamber of membrane electrolysis apparatus 12.
  • Water is then fed regulating valve 38 and flow-meter 39 to inlet nozzle 10 of catholyte chamber.
  • a salt tank 41 is filled with water through check valve 49 and salt (from time to time) for saline water formation, which is further fed tap water from feed pipe by metering pump 42, where tap water and saline water are mixed with water and the resultant solution is fed to inlet nozzle 5 of membrane-less electrolysis apparatus 2.
  • Membrane-less electrolysis apparatus 2 comprises a housing, an anode 3 and a cathode 4, an inlet nozzle 5 and an outlet nozzle 6.
  • the anode is constructed from a
  • the housing and electrodes can be round or flat, but, in any case, a distance between anode and cathode is generally from 4 to 20 mm.
  • a conductivity meter sensor 50 is set at the end of an inlet nozzle 5 to the membrane-less apparatus 2.
  • the sensor regulates the quantity of saline water entering apparatus 2.
  • the aqueous solution in the processing chamber of membrane-less apparatus 2 is subject to an electric current from anode 3 and cathode 4, which are both connected to a DC supplier 7, and the current passes through the processing chamber such that electrochemical reactions occur at the anode and cathode.
  • Ions generated at the anode are cations and chemical agents, such as, but not limited to HOCI, HCI, Cl 2 , H + , HO 2 , H 3 O+, Na + , and K + .
  • anions are generated OH “ , H 3 O 2 “ , NO 3 “ , CO 3 2” , SO 4 2” , CIO “ .
  • These cations and anions may react together in one or more neutralization reactions resulting in non-treated aqueous solution and reactions products such as NaOCI, NaOH, KOH, H 2 O, HOCI etc. with pH about of from 8.0 to 9.0 at outlet nozzle 6 of membrane-less apparatus exit.
  • Membrane electrolysis apparatus 12 comprises a housing, an anode 13, a cathode 14, a membrane 54, inlet nozzles 10 for anode and cathode chambers and outlet nozzles 11 for anode and cathode chambers,
  • the anode is constructed from a Titanium substrate with an MMO coating of RuO 2 and IrO 2 in an equal ratio (1 :1).
  • the cross section ratio of the outlet nozzles 11 to cross-section of the inlet nozzles 10 is, in some cases, 2:1.
  • Electrochemical reactions occur at the anode and at the cathode.
  • apparatus 12 has a membrane disposed between the anode and cathode chambers.
  • the neutralization reactions occurring in apparatus 2 cannot occur herein due to their separation by the membrane.
  • electrochemical reaction products accumulate in their respective chambers and exit the chambers through outlet nozzles 11 of membrane apparatus 12 to catholyte tank 15 and anolyte tank 16.
  • the pH level of the catholyte in tank 15 is typically in the range of 11.0 to 12.4 and ORP to Platinum, relative to Ag/AgCI, in the range of from -650 to -920 mV.
  • the pH level of the anolyte in tank 16 is typically in the range of from 1.7 to 2.4, and ORP to Platinum, relative to Ag/AgCI, of from +800 to +1200 mV.
  • the anolyte and catholyte produced are for use in the laundering process in drum washer 23.
  • Additives may also be added to the drum washer to improve the laundering quality, thus an enzyme holding tank 17 contains a solution of washing enzymes known in the art, such as lipases.
  • Another additive used in the art is a grease remover (any kind of solvent) held in tank 18.
  • An optical brightener is held in tank 19.
  • a softener is held in a softener- tank 20.
  • One or more fragrances or odorants are held in tank 21. All the aforementioned tanks are connected to drum washer 23 (in Fig. 1) or to tunnel washer - CBW 22 (Fig. 2).
  • All solutions are fed to the respective washers either by gravitation, per tank 15 for catholyte and tank 16 for anolyte, or by metering pumps 28 and electric valves 51, 52 and 63 for the greaser remover, metering pump 29 and electric valves 59, 53 and 64, for the enzyme, metering pump 30 and electric valves 55, 56 and 62 for the optical brightener, metering pump 31 and electric valves 57 and 58 for the softener, and atomizer 61 for the odorant.
  • the catholyte from tank 15 is used with additives such as grease remover from tank 18, enzyme from tank 17, optical brightener from tank 19 and tap water by means of electrical valve 45.
  • the required pH level of the washing solution in this phase is controlled by time control of electrical valves 34, 45, 51, 55 and 59, which is based on a response to the readings from pH sensors 43.
  • anolyte is added from tank 16, supplied using time control of electrical valve 33 and tap water added by means of electrical valve 44, which is based on a response to the readings from pH sensors
  • the required pH level of the rinsing solution is supplied in this phase by time control of electrical valves 34, 44 and 58, which is established on basis of pH measurements from pH sensors 43. It should be emphasized that in prior art washing systems the pH level in a drum washer was not monitored since the pH sensor was disposed externally to the drum washer.
  • Fig. 2 it should be noted that in laundering with a CBW - tunnel washer 22, there are three different laundering zones: 1) a washing/laundering zone with a highly alkaline pH level;
  • the three zones are continuously controlled by three respective pH sensors 24, 25 and 26.
  • the washing solution used is the catholyte from tank 15, with the addition of additives such as grease remover from tank 18, enzyme from tank 17 and optical brightener from tank 19.
  • Tap water is added by means of electrical valve 46.
  • the required pH level of the washing solution to this zone is effected by time control of electrical valves 35, 52, 53 and 56, which is established by measurements from pH sensor 24.
  • anolyte is used as a bleaching and disinfecting solution, and is received from tank 16. Tap water is added to this zone by means of electrical valve 47.
  • the required pH level of the bleaching and disinfecting solution is supplied by time control of electrical valves 36 and 47, which is established on the basis of pH measurements from pH sensor 25.
  • the required pH level of rinsing solution is supplied to this zone by activation of electrical valves 37, 48 and 57, which, in turn are fed signals on the basis of pH measurements from pH sensor 26.
  • PLC 40 Programmable Logic Controller
  • PLC 40 has inputs (24, 25, 26, 43, 50, 9, and 39) and outputs (1, 7, 8, 9, 38, 49, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 42, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 51 , 52, 53, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61 , 62, 63 and 64).
  • Fig. 3 is a simplified flowchart 300 of a method for laundering, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.
  • 310 catholyte and anolyte solutions are prepared in one or more electrolytic stages. Further details of this step are described with reference to Fig. 4 hereinbelow.
  • a washing or laundering step 320 soiled, dirty or stained clothes are placed in the washer, such as drum washer 23 (Fig. 1) or tunnel washer 22 (Fig.2).
  • Tap water or reverse osmosis water is fed from via a water pipeline and valves 1 , 34 from 60 to the washer, 22 or 23.
  • Catholyte from tank 15 is fed and mixed with the water such that the resultant solution is a washing solution of pH from 10.8 to 12.3 and ORP to Platinum, relative to Ag/AgCI, of from - 600 to -900 mV.
  • the washing solution comprises the catholyte in combination with tap water and additives, wherein the pH of the catholyte is from 11.0 to 12.4 and the ORP of said catholyte to Platinum, relative to Ag/AgCI, is from -650 to -920 mV.
  • the additives added to the washing stage are grease remover from tank 18, enzyme from tank 17, optical brightener from tank 19 and tap water by means of electrical valve 45.
  • the required pH level of the washing solution in this phase is controlled by time control of electrical valves 34, 45, 51 , 55 and 59, which is based on a response to the readings from pH sensor 43.
  • the ratio of the water: catholyte is 1 : 1.
  • the washing step is performed under controlled and maintained pH and
  • pH sensor 43 measures the in situ pH of the washing solution in the washer and the
  • PLC receives signals from the pH sensor and sends a signal back to valve 34 which allows more catholyte to feed into the washer and the pH is raised.
  • the pH and ORP are set to a set-point and the PLC adds one or more of an additive, water, catholyte and anolyte responsive to the pH change.
  • the washing stage takes 2 to 10 minutes and is performed at a temperature of 17 to 40 0 C.
  • At least one of a drain and a spin step is performed in the drum washer 23 to evacuate the spent washing solution prior to the next step.
  • the wet clothes remain in the drum washer for all steps in flowchart 300.
  • At least one drain step is performed in the tunnel washer 22 to evacuate the spent washing solution prior to the next step.
  • the wet clothes are passed from the washing zone to the next zone (disinfect and bleach zone) prior to the starting of the next step.
  • a bleaching and disinfection solution is added to the washer, having a pH of from 1.9 to 2.8 and ORP to Platinum, relative to Ag/AgCI, of from +750 to +1160 mV.
  • the bleaching and disinfection solution comprises the anolyte from tank 16 in combination with tap water.
  • the pH of the anolyte ranges from 1.7 to 2.4 and/or ORP to Platinum, relative to Ag/AgCI, of from +800 to +1200 mV.
  • the disinfecting and bleaching step takes 2 - 8 minutes and is performed at a temperature of 17 - 4O 0 C.
  • At least one of a drain and a spin step is performed in the drum washer 23 to evacuate the spent disinfect and bleach solution prior to the next step.
  • the wet clothes remain in the drum washer for all steps in flowchart 300.
  • At least one drain step is performed in the tunnel washer 22 to evacuate the spent disinfect and bleach solution prior to the next step.
  • the wet clothes are passed from the disinfect and bleach zone to the next zone (rinse zone) prior to the starting of the next step.
  • a rinsing solution is passed into the washer, wherein said rinsing solution comprises tap water from valve 1 and softener from valves 57 and 58.
  • Commercial softeners used according to this invention are 20 - 30%, which are 70% less than the requirements of prior art processes.
  • the rinsing step may include several rinse, drain and spin sub-steps as are known in the art.
  • steps 310-340 take from 8 to 18 minutes in the drum washer and from
  • An optional drying step may be performed after step 340, which is performed at 80 -120 0 C over a time of 3 - 18 minutes. This drying step is much shorter than the drying steps of the prior art. Without being bound or limited to any theory, this may be because the surface tension of the catholyte is much less than that of tap water and thus is energetically less bound to the fabrics or clothes after the rinsing step.
  • a reverse osmosis step 410 tap water is fed into a reverse-osmosis module 60.
  • the function of the reverse osmosis step is to clean the tap water from Ca and Mg.
  • a first electrolysis step 420 one or more of tap water and reverse osmosis water from step 410 are fed via valve 1 into apparatus 2.
  • a current is passed between the electrodes (anode and cathode) 3, 4 such that electrochemical reactions occur.
  • Ions generated at the anode are cations and chemical agents, such as, but not limited to HOCI, HCI, Cl 2 , H + , HO 2 , H 3 O+, Na + , and K + .
  • anions are generated OH “ , H 3 O 2 “ , NO 3 “ , CO 3 2” , SO 4 2” , CIO “ .
  • These cations and anions may react together in one or more neutralization reactions resulting in an aqueous solution, comprising reactions products such as NaOCI, NaOH, KOH, H 2 O, HOCI etc., with a pH about of from 8.0 to 9.0 at outlet nozzle 6 of membrane-less apparatus exit.
  • a membrane electrolysis step is performed in a second electrolysis step 430.
  • the aqueous solution from nozzle 6 in step 420 is fed into apparatus 12.
  • a current is applied and an anolyte and catholyte solution form at anode 13 and cathode 14 respectively.
  • the pH level of the resultant catholyte is typically in the range of 11.3 to 12.5 and ORP to Platinum, relative to Ag/AgCI, in the range of from -800 to -950 mV.
  • the pH level of the resultant anolyte is typically in the range of from 1.3 to 3.0, and ORP to Platinum, relative to Ag/AgCI, of from +500 to +1250 mV.
  • the prior art process can be replaced by the washing/laundering step 320 with the addition of the required enzymes and optical brightener in the catholyte solution at temperature of about 30 or 35 0 C (taking into account higher catalytic ability of catholyte).
  • Mineral grease can be removed by adding any kind of solvent at a pH of 10.0 as an additive to the catholyte solution in step 320.
  • Fabric softening can be achieved in several different ways, according to some embodiments of the present invention: a) the catholyte may be added to water at ratio of from 1:9 to 9:1 and the resultant catholyte solution may be used as a rinsing medium; b) a softener may be added to an anolyte solution at pH of 3.5 in a quantity of 3 to 5 fold less in comparison to regular washing. c) Additives may be added in a quantity of from 7 to 10 less compared to regular washing after pretreatment in the membrane electrolysis apparatus 12
  • Another notable improvement of the present invention over the prior art is the combination of NaCI and KNO 3 salts in the electrolysis process.
  • Such combination of salts in concentration of from 0.5 to 2.5 g/l produced sufficient amount of chloric oxidants (Cl 2 , HCI), chloric - oxygen oxidants (HOCI) and oxygen oxidants (O 2 , H 2 O 2 , HO 2 , HO 3+ etc.), what is necessary for stain elimination (bleaching) of any specific disinfectants, e.g. as ALCOXIDINE (Skin disinfectant).
  • Yet another advantage of the present invention over the prior art is the reduction in drying time of clothes washed according to the method of the present invention. This has been verified experimentally and may be due to the fact that the surface tension of the catholyte is only 36x10 3 N/m relative to tap water 72x10 3 N/m.
  • Yet another advantage of the present invention over the prior art is the use of two electrolytic stages (2, 12), thus producing the anoiyte and catholyte by consecutively passing saline water through first the membrane-less electrolysis apparatus 2 wherein there is precipitation of Ca and Mg carbonates. Thereafter the solution is passed through then anode and cathode chambers of membrane electrolysis apparatus 12, having a membrane between the anode and cathode chambers.
  • This arrangement allows for a decrease in the quantity of carbonates precipitation on the cathode of membrane electrolysis apparatus 12, thus improving quality of Electrochemically Activated Water (EAW) and extending the operating time of apparatus 12.
  • EAW Electrochemically Activated Water
  • Another function advantage of the two stage electrolytic cell arrangement is that the pH level of the catholyte from membrane electrolysis apparatus is significantly higher (11.3 to 12.5) than that of a one-stage process (8-9).
  • a structural advantage of the electrolysis apparatus of the present invention is that the use of an anode coating comprising RuO 2 and IrO 2 in a ratio of approximately 1 :1.
  • the anode coating allows production of chloric oxidants, chloric - oxygen oxidants and oxygen oxidants by various reactions from NaCI and KNO 3 , the salts used in the electrolysis process.
  • membrane electrolysis apparatus 12 is constructed such that the ratio of the inlet cross-section nozzle to outlet nozzles is 1 :2, and this, in turn, provides protection to the inlet piping from hydraulic shock, due to gases generated from the electrolytic reactions. This arrangement also provides a freer exit of the catholyte and the anoiyte to their respective storage tank 15, 16.
  • Electrochemical Activation it is electrolysis of all kinds of liquids with small amount of salts for producing electrochemically activated (energetically exited) liquids such as anolyte and catholyte by applying a voltage of from 5V to 100,000V in accordance with liquids characteristics.
  • EAW Electrochemically Activated Water
  • Electrochemical Activator (ECAC) - a certain type of electrolyzer for the production of anolyte and catholyte:
  • the invention further contemplates a machine- readable memory tangibly embodying a program of instructions executable by the machine for executing the method of the invention.

Landscapes

  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
  • Electrochemistry (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Textile Engineering (AREA)
  • Accessory Of Washing/Drying Machine, Commercial Washing/Drying Machine, Other Washing/Drying Machine (AREA)
  • Detail Structures Of Washing Machines And Dryers (AREA)
  • Detergent Compositions (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne un procédé de nettoyage commandé par ordinateur comprenant le fait de : fournir au moins un catholyte et au moins un anolyte provenant d'au moins un appareil d'électrolyse à un appareil de lavage et laver un article lors d'une étape de lavage dans au moins une première solution comprenant au moins un catholyte sous pH maintenu et potentiel d'oxydo-réduction (ORP) ; l'étape de javellisation/désinfection dans une deuxième solution comprenant au moins un anolyte sous pH maintenu et potentiel d'oxydo-réduction (ORP) et une étape de rinçage dans une solution de rinçage ; dans l'appareil de lavage pour fournir un article sensiblement propre, dans lequel au moins un pH et un ORP d'au moins un catholyte introduit au cours de l'étape de lavage et l'anolyte introduit au cours de l'étape de javellisation/désinfection sont sensiblement surveillés en continu et au moins un pH et un ORP d'au moins un fluide au cours de l'étape de lavage est périodiquement surveillé pour obtenir les conditions maintenues, au moins en partie en commandant au moins le volume de catholyte introduit au cours de l'étape de lavage.
PCT/IL2008/000154 2007-02-06 2008-02-05 Procédé de nettoyage Ceased WO2008096350A2 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
IL181,182 2007-02-06
IL181182A IL181182A (en) 2007-02-06 2007-02-06 Computer-controlled laundering method and system
IL189176A IL189176A0 (en) 2008-02-03 2008-02-03 Laundering method system
IL189,176 2008-02-03

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2008096350A2 true WO2008096350A2 (fr) 2008-08-14
WO2008096350A3 WO2008096350A3 (fr) 2008-09-25

Family

ID=39595576

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/IL2008/000154 Ceased WO2008096350A2 (fr) 2007-02-06 2008-02-05 Procédé de nettoyage

Country Status (1)

Country Link
WO (1) WO2008096350A2 (fr)

Cited By (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US8321983B2 (en) * 2010-10-05 2012-12-04 Whirlpool Corporation Method for controlling a cycle of operation in a laundry treating appliance
ITRM20110305A1 (it) * 2011-06-15 2012-12-16 Ecotec Gestione Impianti S R L Metodo ed apparecchiatura per il lavaggio di tessuti con soluzioni preparate per via elettrochimica.
WO2022128438A1 (fr) * 2020-12-14 2022-06-23 Miele & Cie. Kg Procédé de fonctionnement d'un appareil électrique conducteur d'eau et appareil électrique conducteur d'eau
CN117169304A (zh) * 2023-08-14 2023-12-05 上海野马环保设备工程有限公司 间歇式pH和ORP值检测装置及方法

Family Cites Families (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US7296444B2 (en) * 2001-04-05 2007-11-20 Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd. Electric washing machine
IL166012A0 (en) * 2004-12-27 2006-01-15 Aqua Solutions Ltd Apparatus and method for laundering

Cited By (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US8321983B2 (en) * 2010-10-05 2012-12-04 Whirlpool Corporation Method for controlling a cycle of operation in a laundry treating appliance
ITRM20110305A1 (it) * 2011-06-15 2012-12-16 Ecotec Gestione Impianti S R L Metodo ed apparecchiatura per il lavaggio di tessuti con soluzioni preparate per via elettrochimica.
WO2022128438A1 (fr) * 2020-12-14 2022-06-23 Miele & Cie. Kg Procédé de fonctionnement d'un appareil électrique conducteur d'eau et appareil électrique conducteur d'eau
BE1028882B1 (de) * 2020-12-14 2022-07-12 Miele & Cie Verfahren zum Betreiben eines wasserführenden elektrischen Geräts und wasserführendes elektrisches Gerät
CN117169304A (zh) * 2023-08-14 2023-12-05 上海野马环保设备工程有限公司 间歇式pH和ORP值检测装置及方法

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
WO2008096350A3 (fr) 2008-09-25

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
WO2008155755A1 (fr) Systèmes et procédés pour le blanchissage avec recyclage
CN1954112B (zh) 净化和再循环洗涤液的洗涤方法和系统
US9949463B2 (en) Bubble electrolyzed water generation apparatus and automatic washing apparatus
US8042364B2 (en) Washing machine with improved waterway system
MXPA04011400A (es) Metodos electroquimicos con base en senal para el lavado automatico de platos y utensilios.
US20050252538A1 (en) Device and system for improved cleaning in a washing machine
JP2005525191A (ja) エネルギー効率の高い自動食器洗い器具
JP5914637B2 (ja) 洗浄装置および洗浄方法
US20050252532A1 (en) Method and system for washing
WO2008096350A2 (fr) Procédé de nettoyage
CN101044278B (zh) 改善洗衣机清洁能力的装置和系统
ZA200704742B (en) Apparatus and method for laundering
TW202405276A (zh) 衣物洗滌系統
WO2003099097A1 (fr) Lave-vaisselle automatique econome en energie
IL181182A (en) Computer-controlled laundering method and system
RU2119555C1 (ru) Электрохимическое устройство
TWM645471U (zh) 衣物洗滌系統
US20240229323A9 (en) System for washing laundry
EP4574772A1 (fr) Procédé de traitement d'eau à base d'électrode à plusieurs étages
EP4516982A1 (fr) Système de lavage de linge
JP2006198595A (ja) 電解水生成装置の医療分野への利用
DE102006037905A1 (de) Spülmaschine mit Elektrolysezelle
ITRM20110305A1 (it) Metodo ed apparecchiatura per il lavaggio di tessuti con soluzioni preparate per via elettrochimica.
JPH0316597A (ja) 洗濯機

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 08702729

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A2

NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: DE

122 Ep: pct application non-entry in european phase

Ref document number: 08702729

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A2