Classifications

• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B03—SEPARATION OF SOLID MATERIALS USING LIQUIDS OR USING PNEUMATIC TABLES OR JIGS; MAGNETIC OR ELECTROSTATIC SEPARATION OF SOLID MATERIALS FROM SOLID MATERIALS OR FLUIDS; SEPARATION BY HIGH-VOLTAGE ELECTRIC FIELDS
  • B03C—MAGNETIC OR ELECTROSTATIC SEPARATION OF SOLID MATERIALS FROM SOLID MATERIALS OR FLUIDS; SEPARATION BY HIGH-VOLTAGE ELECTRIC FIELDS
  • B03C5/00—Separating dispersed particles from liquids by electrostatic effect
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
  • B01D—SEPARATION
  • B01D21/00—Separation of suspended solid particles from liquids by sedimentation
  • B01D21/0009—Settling tanks making use of electricity or magnetism
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
  • B01D—SEPARATION
  • B01D21/00—Separation of suspended solid particles from liquids by sedimentation
  • B01D21/28—Mechanical auxiliary equipment for acceleration of sedimentation, e.g. by vibrators or the like
  • B01D21/283—Settling tanks provided with vibrators
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B03—SEPARATION OF SOLID MATERIALS USING LIQUIDS OR USING PNEUMATIC TABLES OR JIGS; MAGNETIC OR ELECTROSTATIC SEPARATION OF SOLID MATERIALS FROM SOLID MATERIALS OR FLUIDS; SEPARATION BY HIGH-VOLTAGE ELECTRIC FIELDS
  • B03C—MAGNETIC OR ELECTROSTATIC SEPARATION OF SOLID MATERIALS FROM SOLID MATERIALS OR FLUIDS; SEPARATION BY HIGH-VOLTAGE ELECTRIC FIELDS
  • B03C5/00—Separating dispersed particles from liquids by electrostatic effect
  • B03C5/02—Separators
  • B03C5/022—Non-uniform field separators
  • B03C5/026—Non-uniform field separators using open-gradient differential dielectric separation, i.e. using electrodes of special shapes for non-uniform field creation, e.g. Fluid Integrated Circuit [FIC]
• • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
  • C12—BIOCHEMISTRY; BEER; SPIRITS; WINE; VINEGAR; MICROBIOLOGY; ENZYMOLOGY; MUTATION OR GENETIC ENGINEERING
  • C12M—APPARATUS FOR ENZYMOLOGY OR MICROBIOLOGY; APPARATUS FOR CULTURING MICROORGANISMS FOR PRODUCING BIOMASS, FOR GROWING CELLS OR FOR OBTAINING FERMENTATION OR METABOLIC PRODUCTS, i.e. BIOREACTORS OR FERMENTERS
  • C12M33/00—Means for introduction, transport, positioning, extraction, harvesting, peeling or sampling of biological material in or from the apparatus
  • C12M33/12—Means for introduction, transport, positioning, extraction, harvesting, peeling or sampling of biological material in or from the apparatus by pressure
• • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
  • C12—BIOCHEMISTRY; BEER; SPIRITS; WINE; VINEGAR; MICROBIOLOGY; ENZYMOLOGY; MUTATION OR GENETIC ENGINEERING
  • C12M—APPARATUS FOR ENZYMOLOGY OR MICROBIOLOGY; APPARATUS FOR CULTURING MICROORGANISMS FOR PRODUCING BIOMASS, FOR GROWING CELLS OR FOR OBTAINING FERMENTATION OR METABOLIC PRODUCTS, i.e. BIOREACTORS OR FERMENTERS
  • C12M47/00—Means for after-treatment of the produced biomass or of the fermentation or metabolic products, e.g. storage of biomass
  • C12M47/02—Separating microorganisms from the culture medium; Concentration of biomass
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
  • B01D—SEPARATION
  • B01D2221/00—Applications of separation devices
  • B01D2221/06—Separation devices for industrial food processing or agriculture
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B03—SEPARATION OF SOLID MATERIALS USING LIQUIDS OR USING PNEUMATIC TABLES OR JIGS; MAGNETIC OR ELECTROSTATIC SEPARATION OF SOLID MATERIALS FROM SOLID MATERIALS OR FLUIDS; SEPARATION BY HIGH-VOLTAGE ELECTRIC FIELDS
  • B03D—FLOTATION; DIFFERENTIAL SEDIMENTATION
  • B03D1/00—Flotation
  • B03D1/02—Froth-flotation processes

Definitions

• microorganisms such as but not limited to algae, microaigae, and eyanobaeteria
• intracellular products such as but not limited to lipids, pigments, and proteins
• I including food, feed, fuel, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, industrial products, synthesized oil, and fertilizers. Extracting intracellular products from microorganisms in an aqueous suspension is inefficient because of the low density of organisms and complications from the high amounts of water and other constituents of the aqueous suspension. Aggregating the microorganisms and separating the aggregation of organisms from the aqueous suspensions allows for a more efficient extraction process. Current methods of aggregating microorganisms in an aqueous suspension include using chemicals which provide complications in the extraction process, and extended periods of time to dry microorganisms or evaporate the water from the aqueous suspension. Such drying or evaporation techniques inhibit the overall speed of the process. Therefore there is a need for a simple and efficient method of aggregating and separating microorganisms from an aqueous suspension.
• the systems, methods and apparatuses of this disclosure generally involve subjecting particles such as microorganisms, particularly algae, microalgae and cyanobacteria, in an aqueous suspension to an electrical current creating an electrical field, electromagnetic field, or acoustic energy field.
• the electrical current may be supplied in a constant or continuous manner, such as by direct current.
• the electrical current may be a pulsed electrical current and vary sinusoidally, such as in an alternating current.
• the application of an electrical field causes a change in the surface charge of the microorganisms, which induces the aggregation of the microorganisms into a larger mass through coagulation or flocculation.
• the application of acoustic energy causes the microorganisms to concentrate at locations of minimum pressure. These methods of aggregation are achie v ed without disrupting and/or lysing the cell wall or cell membrane of the microorganisms. The aggregated, larger mass is then separated from the aqueous suspension for further processing, such as, but not limited, to an extraction process.
• the aggregation is achieved by flowing an aqueous suspension containing microorganisms through a channel while simultaneously applying the electrical current as mentioned above.
• the electrical field intensity, electrical field cross-section, flow rate, and channel dimensions are selected in combination with the particular composition of the aqueous suspension to aggregate the microorganisms without lysing or otherwise disrupting the ceils of the microorganisms.
• a portion of the water can be removed from the aqueous suspension by methods such as, but not limited to, decanting and skimming, to produce a concentrated microorganism slurry, which can then be used as input for an extraction process,
• aggregation using electrical fields facilitates subsequent extraction processes by producing a more concentrated microorganism slurry and reducing the amount of the liquid culture medium in the extraction process.
• the concentration of the slurry can be greater than 1% solids while in other embodiments the concentration is greater than 3% or greater than 5%, or in a range from 1 % to 30% solids by weight.
• ihe present invention relates to a system that includes a first apparatus configured to perform aggregation with an electric field to produce an aggregated slurry as discussed above.
• the aggregated slurry is in fluid
• the aggregated microorganisms may continue to aggregate with other microorganisms in the aqueous suspension to form a larger aggregated mass.
• the aggregated mass of microorganisms may sink to the bottom of the separation apparatus or float to the surface of the liquid medium in the separation apparatus to facilitate recovery and separation of the aggregated mass of microorganisms.
• the aggregated microorganisms exiting the electrical field may be further aggregated by subjecting the microorganisms to multiple passes in the electrical field or a new electrical field,
• regulation of the electrical energy applied to the microorganism(s), such as algae cells can be controlled by adjusting at least one of the voltage, current, electrical field cross sectional area, pulsation frequency, residence time, flow rate, flow path channel dimensions, and combinations thereof, so that the microorganism(s) is/are subjected to the electrical field in a manner sufficient to achieve the desired effect of aggregating the microorganisms.
• the microorganisms can be efficiently harvesied and dewatered with an efficient use of external energy, which can be accurately controlled and adjusted to create the desired effect or degree of aggregation and/or harvesting.
• control can be affected manually. In other embodiments, however, the control can be affected automatically with the aid of a computerized sensor and control system. Suitable sensors can be used to measure the rate and/or amount of aggregation and provide output signals to the computer to control the variables of voltage, current, electrical field cross sectional area, pulsation frequency, residence time, flow rate, and flow path channel dimensions that the microorganisms are subjected to.
• Such sensors may comprise, but are not limited to, turbidity, density, flow rate, chlorophyll a, optical density, electrical current, and electrical voltage sensors, ⁇ one non-limiting example turbidity or density sensors can measure the slurry before entering the electrical field and exiting the electrical field to determine and the amount of the aqueous suspension to be separated for further aggregation in a separate apparatus, recycled to the same apparatus for further aggregation, or separated to flow to the other processing paths, such as to the separation apparatus.
• electrical input frequency rates are determined by biomass density of the microorganisms with pulse rate frequencies being generally increased/decreased proportionally with an increase/decrease in biomass density
• biomass density is determined by using a formula or algorithm comprising a percentage of grams of biomass present per liter of flowing liquid medium.
• the formula or algorithm can be utilized in the computer based sensor and control system to determine the desired operating parameters by matching the formula or algorithm value to corresponding, operating parameters residing in a matrix of operating parameters and measured effects.
• a separation apparatus is in fluid communication downstream of the aggregating apparatus applying an electrical field, such that the aqueous suspension can flow through electrical field into the separation apparatus.
• the separation apparatus applies acoustic energy to the aqueous suspension.
• the separation apparatus comprises a foam fractionation device configured to mix the aqueous suspension containing aggregated microorganisms with an injected gas to produce a gas and liquid mixture, and collect a foam comprising aggregated microorganisms
• the separation apparatus is a separation tank.
• an element is disposed in the separation tank for producing bubbles or microbubbles.
• an aqueous suspension containing aggregated microorganisms is disposed in the flow path of the microbubbles and optionally a pump is disposed in the separation tank for circulating the aqueous suspension.
• the method further includes the steps of (1) applying a sufficient amount of an electrical current to the aqueous suspension for aggregating the microorganisms, (2) flowing the aqueous suspension containing the electrically treated microorganisms to the separation tank, (3) activating the pump and the element for producing microbubbles resulting in a plurality of microbubbles that impinge upon the aggregated microorganisms so as to cause such microorganisms to float upwards in the aqueous suspension, and (4) separating the floating aggregated microorganisms from the aqueous suspension.
• the element disposed in the separation tank for producing microbubbles can be any suitable device or apparatus, e.g. a mixer, a tluidic oscillator, a bubble generator
• the apparatus comprises at least one cathode disposed opposite at least one anode, and at least one pair of spaced insulators disposed between the at least one cathode and the at least one anode.
• the apparatus also comprises a channel defined between the at least one cathode, at least one anode, and the at least one pair of spaced insulators.
• the channel has a length commensurate with the lengths of the at least one cathode and at least one anode.
• the channel defines a fluid flow path for the aqueous suspension to flow through.
• the channel comprises a cross-section comprising a height and width.
• the apparatus also comprises an electrical power source that is operably connected to the at least one cathode and the at least one anode. When an electric current is applied from the electrical power source to the at least one cathode and the at least one anode, an electrical field is created.
• the apparatus also comprises a separation tank that is in fluid communication downstream with the channel. The separation tank is configured to collect fluid flow from the fluid flow path defined by the channel.
• At lea st one of the height and width of the cross-section of the channel increases over the length of the fluid flow path. In some embodiments, at least one of the height and the width decreases of the cross-section of the channel decreases over the length of the fluid flow path.
• the length of the channel may expand or contract.
• the apparatus comprises a series of channels of different cross-section size defined by cathodes, anodes, and pairs of insulators, wherein the channels are coupled together in a telescoping configuration.
• the cathode, anode, and pair of insulators are disposed within a housing.
• the electrical power source provides continuous electrical current. In some embodiments, the electrical power source provides pulsed electrical current. In some embodiments, the intensity of the electrical current may be changed.
• Another aspect of this disclosure is directed to an apparatus for aggregating microorganisms in an aqueous suspension
• a first electrical conductor disposed within a second electrical conductor, wherein a channel is defined between an exterior surface of the first electrical conductor and an interior surface of the second electrical conductor.
• the channel defines a fluid flow path for the aqueous suspension.
• the channel comprises a cross-section comprising a diameter and that diameter varies over a length of the flu d flow path.
• the apparatus also comprises an electrical power source operably connected to the first electrical conductor and the second electrical conductor.
• the first electrical conductor is configured as either an anode or a cathode.
• the second electrical conductor is configured as either an anode or a cathode and is not the same as the first electrical conductor (e.g., if the first electrical conductor is configured as an anode, then the second electrical conductor is configured as a cathode; if the first electrical conductor is configured as a cathode, then the second electrical conductor is configured as an anode).
• an electrical current is applied from the electrical power source to the first electrical conductor and the second electrical conductor, an electrical field is created.
• the apparatus also comprises a separation tank in fluid communication downstream with the channel. The separation tank is configured to collect fluid flow from the fluid flo path defined by the channel
• the diameter of the cross-section increases o ver a length of the channel. In some embodiments, the diameter of the cross-section decreases over a length of the channel.
• the length of the channel may expand or contract.
• the apparatus comprises a series of channels of different cross-section size defined by first and second electrical conductors and pairs of insulators, wherein the channels are coupled together in a telescoping configuration.
• the first electrical conductor, the second electrical conductor, and pair of insulators are disposed within a housing.
• the electrical power source provides continuous electrical current. In some embodiments, the electrical power source provides pulsed electrical current.
• Another aspect of this disclosure is directed to a method for aggregating microorganisms in an aqueous suspension.
• an aqueous suspension comprising microorganisms is flowed into at least one apparatus.
• the apparatus comprises at least one cathode disposed opposite at least one anode, and at least one pair of spaced insulators disposed between the at least one cathode and the at least one anode.
• the apparatus also comprises a channel defined between the at least one cathode, at least one anode, and the at least one pair of spaced insulators.
• the channel has a length commensurate with the lengths of the at least one cathode and at least one anode.
• the channel defines a fluid flow path for the aqueous suspension to flow through.
• the channel comprises a cross-section comprising at least one of a height, width, and diameter. At least one of the height, width, and diameter of the cross-section of the channel varies over at least a portion of the length of the fluid flow path.
• the apparatus also comprises an electrical power source that is operably connected to the at least one cathode and the at least one anode. When an electric current is applied from the electrical power source to the at least one cathode and the at least one anode, an electrical fseld is created.
• the apparatus also comprises a separation tank that is in fluid communication downstream with the channel. The separation tank is configured to collect fluid flow from the fluid flow path defined by the channel.
• the aqueous suspension is then flowed through the channel and into the separation tank.
• An electrical current is applied from the electrical power source to the at least one cathode and the at least one anode, thereby creating an electrical field in the channel, wherein the surface charge of the microorganisms in the aqueous suspension in the fluid flow path is treated, and wherein the microorganisms aggregate with similarly treated microorganisms in the aqueous suspension without disrupting the cell membranes of the microorganisms.
• the microorganisms are aggregated in the separation tank.
• the at least one apparatus used in the method comprises a plurality of apparatuses in parallel configuration. In some embodiments, the at least on apparatus comprises a plurality of apparatuses in a series configuration. In some embodiments, the at least on apparatus comprises a plurality of apparatuses in a combination of parallel and series configurations.
• the electrical power source provides continuous electrical current. In some embodiments, the electrical power source provides pulsed electrical current, [8022] Another aspect of this disclosure is directed to a system for aggregating
• Each aggregating apparatus comprises at least one electrical conductor comprising a conductive material configured as a cathode and at least one electrical conductor comprising conductive material configured as an anode.
• the electrical conductor comprising a conductive material configured as a cathode is disposed opposite the at least one electrical conductor comprising conductive material configured as an anode.
• Each apparatus also comprises at least one pair of spaced insulators disposed between the at least one electrical conductor comprising a conductive material configured as a cathode and the at least one electrical conductor comprising a conductive material configured as an anode.
• Each apparatus also comprises a channel defined between the at least one electrical conductor comprising a conductive material configured as a cathode, at least one electrical conductor comprising a conductive material configured as an anode, and the at least one pair of spaced insulators.
• the channel has a length commensurate with the lengths of the at least one electrical conductor comprising a conductive material configured as a cathode and the at least one electrical conductor comprising a conductive material configured as an anode.
• the channel defines a fluid flow path for the aqueous suspension to flow through.
• the channel comprises a cross-section comprising at least one of a height, width, and diameter.
• the apparatus also comprises an electrical power source that is operably connected to the at least one electrical conducior comprising a conductive material configured as a cathode and the at least one electrical conductor comprising a conductive material configured as an anode.
• an electric current is applied from the electrical power source to the at least one electrical conductor comprising a conductive material configured as a cathode and the at least one electrical conductor comprising a conductive material configured as an anode, an electrical field is created.
• At least one of the aggregating apparatuses differs from at least one other aggregating apparatus by at least one characteristic selected from the group consisting of the conduct ive material of the at least one electrical conducior comprising a conductive material configured as a cathode, the conductive material of the at least one electrical conductor comprising a conductive material configured as an anode, the intensity of the electrical field, the fluid flow paih height, ihe fluid flow paih width, the fluid flow path diameter, and the length of the channel.
• the conductive material is selected from the group consisting of aluminum, copper, titanium, nickel, steel, stainless steel, graphite, and a conductive polymer.
• the conductive material comprises a coating of at least one of iridium, ruthenium, platinum, rhodium, tantalum, and a mixed metal polymer.
• the system comprises a plurality of aggregating apparatuses configured in parallel. In some embodiments, the system comprises a plurality of aggregating apparatuses configured in series. In some embodiments, the system comprises a plurality of aggregating apparatuses configured in a combination of parallel and series configurations. [8(525] In some embodiments, the electrical power source provides continuous electrical current. In some embodiments, the electrical power source provides pulsed electrical current. In some embodiments, at least one of the aggregating apparatuses differs from at least one other aggregating apparatus by electrical pulse type.
• Another aspect of this disclosure is directed to a method for aggregating microorganisms in an aqueous suspension, the method comprising flowing an aqueous suspension comprising microorganisms into an aggregating apparatus or a plurality of aggregating apparatuses.
• Each aggregating apparatus comprises at least one electrical conductor comprising a conductive material configured as a cathode and at least one electrical conductor comprising conductive material configured as an anode.
• the electricai conductor comprising a conductive material configured as a cathode is disposed opposite the at least one electrical conductor comprising conductive material configured as an anode.
• Each apparatus also comprises at least one pair of spaced insulators disposed between the at least one electricai conductor comprising a conductive material configured as a cathode and the at least one electrical conductor comprising a conductive material configured as an anode.
• Each apparatus also comprises a channel defined between the at least one electrical conductor comprising a conductive material configured as a cathode, at least one electrical conductor comprising a conductive material configured as an anode, and the at least one pair of spaced insulators.
• the channel has a length commensurate with the lengths of the at least one electrical conductor comprising a conductive material configured as a cathode and the at least one electrical conductor comprising a conductive material configured as an anode.
• the channel defines a fluid flow path for the aqueous suspension to flow through.
• the channel comprises a cross -section comprising at least one of a height, width, and diameter. At least one of the height, width, and diameter of the cross-section of the channel varies over at least a portion of the length of the fluid flow path.
• the apparatus also comprises an electrical power source that is operably connected to the at least one electrical conductor comprising a conductive material configured as a cathode and the at least one electrical conductor comprising a conductive material configured as an anode.
• an electric current is applied from the electrical power source to the at least one electrical conductor comprising a conductive material configured as a cathode and the at least one electrical conductor comprising a conductive material configured as an anode, an electrica l field is created.
• At least one of the aggregating apparatuses differs from at least one other aggregating apparatus by at least one characteristic selected from the group consisting of the conductive material of the at least one electrical conductor comprising a conductive material configured as a cathode, the conductive material of ihe at least one electrical conductor comprising a conductive material configured as an anode, the intensity of the electrical field, the fluid flow path height, the fluid flow path width, the fluid flow path diameter, and the length of the channel, in the method, the aqueous suspension comprising microorganisms flows through the channel into a separation tank.
• An electrical current is applied from the electrical power source to the at least one electrical conductor comprising a conductive material configured as a cathode and the at least one electrical conductor comprising a conductive material configured as an anode, wherein an electrical field comprising an intensity is created, wherein the electrical field treats the surface charges of the microorganisms and causes similarly treated microorganisms to aggregate in the aqueous suspension without disrupting the cell membranes.
• the microorganisms are aggregated in the separation tank. Then, the aggregated microorganisms are separated from the aqueous suspension in the separation tank.
• the conductive material is selected from the group consisting of aluminum, copper, titanium, nickel, steel, stainless steel graphite, and a conductive polymer.
• the conductive material comprises a coating of at least one of iridium, ruthenium, platinum, rhodium, tantalum, and a mixed metal polymer.
• the system comprises a plurality of aggregating apparatuses configured in parallel. In some embodiments, the system comprises a plurality of aggregating apparatuses configured in series. In some embodiments, the system comprises a plurality of aggregating apparatuses configured in a combination of parallel and series configurations.
• the electrical power source provides continuous electrical current. In some embodiments, the electrical power source provides pulsed electrical current. In some embodiments, at least one of the aggregating apparatuses differs from at least one other aggregating apparatus by electrical pulse type.
• the aggregating apparatus further comprises a separation tank in fluid communication downstream from the channel.
• the separation tank can be configured to collect fluid flow from the fluid flow path defined by the channel.
• At least a portion of the aqueous suspension exiting the fluid flow path of the apparatus is recirculated back through the apparatus.
• the method further comprises measuring with a sensor at least one of the density and turbidity of the aqueous suspension and transmitting the measurement value to a computer controller.
• the computer controller receives the measurement value from the sensor and, based on that measurement value, can adjust ihe volume of the portion of the aqueous suspension that is recirculated through the apparatus, in some embodiments, the portion of aqueous suspension that is recirculated is mixed with an untreated volume of aqueous suspension comprising microorganisms in a continuous aggregation process.
• the aqueous suspension exiting the apparatus is recircuiaied to the apparaius until ihe measurement value reaches a threshold value in a batch aggregation process.
• Another aspect of this disclosure is directed to an apparatus for aggregating microorganisms in an aqueous suspension.
• the apparatus comprises a vessel configured to contain an aqueous suspension of microorganisms and configured for fluid communication with a housing.
• the apparatus also comprises at least one first electrical conductor configured as a cathode disposed within the housing, at least one second electrical conductor configured as an anode disposed within the housing, at least one third electrical conductor configured as a collector electrode disposed within the housing and adjacent to the at least one first electrical conductor, at least one fourth electrical conductor configured as a control electrode disposed within ihe housing and adjacent to ihe at least one first electrical conductor, wherein the at least one first electrical conductor is at least partially surrounded by the at least one second electrical conductor such that a channel is defined between an exterior surface of the at least one first electrical conductor and an interior surface of the at least one second electiical conductor, providing a fluid flow path configured for receiving the aqueous suspension from the vessel.
• the apparatus also comprises at least one electrical power source operably connected to the at least one first electrical conductor, second electrical conductor, third electiical conductor, and fourth electrical conductor, wherein an electrical field is created by providing an electrical current from the electrical power source to the at least one first electrical conductor, second electrical conductor, third electrical conductor, and fourth electiical conductor wherein a cross- sectional area of the electrical field is adjustable based on the current applied to the at least one third electrical conductor and the at least one fourth electrical conductor.
• the apparatus further comprises a separation tank configured to receive the aqueous suspension exiting the fluid flow path.
• the at least one first electrical conductor has a circular cross-section or a polygonal cross-section.
• the at least one second electrical conductor has a curved semi-circular cross-section or a circular cross-section.
• the at least one third electrical conductor has a circular cross-section, a polygonal cross-section, a v-shaped cross section, an oval cross-section or a curved cross section.
• the at least one fourth elecirical conductor has a circular cross-section, oval cross-section or a polygonal cross-section.
• the at least one third electrical conductor and the at least one second electrical conductor have a positive potential relative to the at least one first electrical conductor, the at least one second electrical conductor has a larger posiiive potential than the at least one third electrical conductor, and the at least one fourth electrical conductor has a negative potential relative to the at least one first electrical conductor.
• the cross-sectional area of the electrical field is adjusted by increasing or decreasing the negative potential of the at least one third electrical conductor. In other embodiments, the cross-sectional area of the electrical field is adjusted by increasing or decreasing the negative potential of the at least one fourth electrical conductor. In some embodiments, the cross-sectional area of the electrical field is adjusted by increasing or decreasing the negative potential of the at least one third electrical conductor and at least one fourth electrical conductor.
• the electrical power source provides continuous electrical current. In some embodiments, the electrical power source provides pulsed electrical current.
• Another aspect of this disclosure is directed to a method for aggregating microorganisms in an aqueous suspension.
• the method comprises flowing an aqueous suspensions comprising microorganisms into an apparatus.
• the apparatus comprises at least one electrical conductor with a first potential, at least one second electrical conductor with a second potential, at least one third electrical conductor with a third potential, and at least one fourth electrical conductor with a fourth potential, the at least one first electrical conductor being disposed such that a channel is defined between the at least one first electrical conductor and the at least one second electrical conductor, wherein the channel defines a fluid flow path for the aqueous suspension.
• the apparatus also comprises at least one electrical power source operably connected to the at least one first electrical conductor, second electrical conductor, third electrical conductor, and fourth electrical conductor, wherein an electrical field is created by providing an electrical current from the electrical power source to the at least one first electrical conductor, second electrical conductor, third electrical conductor, and fourth electrical conductor.
• the method comprises applying an electrical current to the at least one first electrical conductor, second electrical conductor, third electrical conductor, fourth electrical, and aqueous suspension whereby the surface charge of the microorganisms is treated and the microorganisms aggregate with similarly treated microorganisms in the aqueous suspension without disrupting the cell membrane.
• the method also comprises adjusting the at least one power source to change the potential of at least one of the third electrical conductor and fourth electrical conductor, wherein the change in potential of the at least one third electricai conductor or fourth electrical conductor changes the cross-sectional area of the electrical field.
• the at least one third electrical conductor and the at least one second electrical conductor have a positive potential relative to the at least one first electrical conductor, the at least one second electricai conductor has a larger positive potential than the at least one third electrical conductor, and the at least one fourth electricai conductor has a negative potential relative to the at least one first electrical conductor.
• the electrical power source provides continuous electrical current. In some embodiments, the electrical power source provides pulsed electrical current.
• Another aspect of this disclosure is directed to a method of aggregating
• the method comprises providing an aqueous solution feed comprising a liquid and microorganisms dispersed therein and aggregating the aqueous suspension feed.
• the aggregating comprises applying a pulsed electric field to the aqueous suspension, the pulsed electrical field generated by a power source and a pulse generator, wherein said pulse generator produces a pattern of electrical pulses which vary in a pulse type comprising at least one of a pulse amplitude, a pulse duration, a pulse shape, and a pause duration between pulses.
• the pulse shape is rectangular, trapezoidal, exponentially decaying, unipolar, or bipolar.
• the pulse duration ranges from 1 to 1 ,000 nanoseconds, in some embodiments, the pattern of electrical pulses alternates between two pulse types. In some embodiments, the pattern of electrical pulses comprises more than two pulse types.
• the pattern of electrical pulses utilized by the pulse generator comprises a programmed pattern. In further embodiments, the programmed pattern is selected by a computerized controller based on at least one of a measured turbidity of the aqueous solution, a measured density of the aqueous solution, a composition of the aqueous solution, and a flow rate of the aqueous solution.
• Yet another aspect of this disclosure is directed to a system for aggregating microorganisms in an aqueous suspension
• the system comprises at least one apparatus comprising at least one electrode, said at least one electrode in electrical communication with a at least one power supply and in liquid communication with an aqueous solution feed comprising microorganisms and a liquid, the at least one power supply comprising a pulse generator and configured to apply a pattern of electrical pulses which vary in a pulse type comprising at least one of a pulse amplitude, a pulse duration, a pulse shape, and a pause duration between pulses, to the aqueous suspension.
• the system also comprises a separation tank in fluid communication with the apparatus for receiving (he aqueous suspension after application of the pattern of electrical pulses.
• the pulse shape is rectangular, trapezoidal, exponentially decaying, unipolar, or bipolar.
• the pulse duration ranges from 1 to 1 ,000 nanoseconds.
• the pattern of electrical pulses alternates between two pulse types.
• the pattern of electrical pulses comprises more than two pulse types.
• the pattern of electrical pulses utilized by the pulse generator comprises a programmed pattern.
• the programmed pattern is selected by a computerized controller based on at least one of a measured turbidity of the aqueous solution, a measured density of the aqueous solution, a composition of the aqueous solution, and a flow rate of the aqueous solution.
• Yet another aspect of this disclosure is directed to a system for aggregating microorganisms in an aqueous suspension
• the system comprises a device configured to apply an electric field to an aqueous suspension.
• the device comprises at least one first electrical conductor, at least one second electrical conductor, wherein the at least one first electrical conductor is disposed within the at least one second electrical conductor, such that a channel is defined bet een an exterior surface of the at least one first electrical conductor and an interior surface of the at least one second electrical conductor and with a cross -section comprising a diameter, the channel providing a fluid flow path for the aqueous suspension.
• the device also comprises an electrical power source operably connected to the at least one first electrical conductor and the at least one second electrical conductor, wherein electrical field is created when an electric current is pro vided from the electrical power source to the at least one first electrical conductor and the at least one second electrical conductor and the aqueous suspension.
• the system also comprises a device configured to apply an acoustic wave to the aqueous suspension, the device comprising a tube configured to contain a flow of the aqueous suspension, at least one transducer coupled to the tube, and a generator configured to produce and transmit electrical radio frequency signals, wherein the generator transmits an electrical radio frequency signal to the transducer and the transducer converts the electrical signal into an acoustic signal which vibrates the tube and creates a wave with a pressure minima node at a location within the tube, wherein the device configured to apply an electrical field and the device configured to apply an acoustic wave to the aqueous suspension are in fluid communication, and wherein the device configured to apply an electrical field and the device configured to apply an acoustic wave to the aqueous suspension each use pulsed electrical energy.
• the pressure minima node is located at the central axis of the tube. In other embodiments, the minima node is located at the interior wall of the tube. In further embodiments, the system further comprises a collector disposed in the tube configured to receive and separate a portion of the flow of the aqueous suspension.
• the system further comprises a piezoelectric vibration energy harvester coupled to the tube and configured to convert vibration energy into electrical current.
• the wave is a standing wave. In other embodiments, the wave is a traveling wave.
• the device configured to apply an electric field further comprises at least one third and at least one fourth electrical conductors.
• a cross-section of the electrical field may be adjusted by tuning the electrical conductors.
• the device is configured to apply an electric field further comprises a cross section of the flow path which varies over a length of the flow path.
• Another aspect of this disclosure is directed to a method of aggregating
• the method comprises flowing an aqueous medium comprising microorganisms of a first type through a first tube and a second tube.
• the method comprises applying pulsed acoustic energy to the first tube to generate a standing wave with a pressure minima node within the first tube.
• the method comprises applying pulsed electrical energy to the second to tube to generate an electrical field within the second tube.
• the aqueous medium flows through the first tube before the second tube, the acoustic energy is applied to the aqueous medium first to selectively target microorganisms of the first type and concentrate the microorganisms of the first type at a pressure minima node, the concentrate of microorganisms of the first type are separated from the aqueous medium by a collector disposed within the first tube, and the electrical energy is applied to the concentrate of microorganisms of the first type to further induce aggregation.
• the aqueous medium flows through the second tube before the first tube, the electrical energy is applied to the aqueous medium first to induce aggregation of the microorganisms of the first type, next apply the acoustic energy to the aqueous medium to further concentrate the microorganisms of the first type, separating the aggregated microorganisms of the first type fro the aqueous medium through a collector disposed within the first tube, and recycling the aqueous medium for further electrical energy application, [8052]
• an electrical field created by the pulse electrical field may be tuned to adjust a cross section of the electric field.
• a flow path of the second tube may change in cross section over a length of the second tube.
• the apparatus comprises a tube configured to contain a flow of an aqueous suspensions comprising microorganisms, an anode disposed within the tube and with a length parallel to a concentric longitudinal axis of the tube, and a cathode disposed within the tube, and with a length parallel to the anode forming a gap between the anode and cathode comprising the concentric longitudinal axis of the tube.
• the apparatus also comprises an electrical power source operably connected to the anode and the cathode for creating an electrical field by providing an electric current that is applied between the anode and cathode and the aqueous suspension, at least one transducer coupled to the tube, and a generator configured to produce and transmit radio frequency signals.
• the generator transmits an electrical radio frequency signal to the transducer and the transducer converts the electrical signal into an acoustic signal which vibrates the tube and creates a standing wave with a pressure minima node at a location between the anode and cathode.
• the electrical field and acoustic standing wave are applied simultaneously to the aqueous suspension.
• the apparatus further comprises a piezoelectric vibration energy harvester coupled to the tube and configured to convert vibration energy into electrical current.
• the electrical field is pulsed.
• the acoustic signal is pulsed.
• the apparatus comprises at least one first electrical conductor configured as a cathode, at least one second electrical conductor configured as an anode, and at least one pair of spaced msulators disposed between the at least one first electrical conductor and the at least one second electrical conductor, the at least one first conductor being disposed opposite the at least one second electrical conductor, such that a channel is defined between the at feast one first electrical conductor, the at least one second electrical conductor, and the at least one pair of spaced insulators, the channel providing a fluid flow path for the aqueous suspension.
• the apparatus also comprises an electrical power source operably connected to the at least one first electrical conductor and the at least one second electrical conductor, wherein an electrical field is created by providing an electric current from the electrical power source to the at least one first electrical conductor and the at least one second electrical conductor.
• the apparatus also comprises at least one first transducer coupled to the at least one first electrical conductor, at least one second transducer coupled to the at least one second electrical conductor, and a generator configured to produce and transmit electrical radio frequency signals.
• the generator transmits an electrical radio frequency signal to the at least one first and second transducers, and ihe transducers convert the electrical signal into an acoustic signal which vibrates the at least one first electrical conductor and the at least one second electrical conductor, and creates a standing wave with a pressure minima node at a location between the at least one first electrical conductor and the at least one second electrical conductor.
• the electrical field and acoustic standing wave are applied simultaneously to the aqueous suspension.
• the apparatus further comprises a piezoelectric vibration energy harvester coupled to the ai least one first electrical conductor or the at least one second electrical conductor and configured to convert vibration energy into electrical current.
• the electrical field is pulsed.
• the acoustic signal is pulsed.
• the particles separated by the system of the present invention are usually living organisms or parts of living plant, animal or microbial organisms. Typically microorganisms and single cell or relatively few cells clumps, organelles or whole organisms are separated from a liquid.
• Microorganisms suitable for the systems, methods and apparatuses described comprise, but are not limited to, algae, microalgae, and cyanobacteria.
• Non-limiting examples of microalgae that can be used with the methods of the invention are members of one of the following divisions: Chlorophyta, Cyanophyta (Cyanobacteria), and Hetero sparklephyta.
• the microalgae used with the methods of the invention are members of one of the following classes: Bacillariophyeeae, Eustigmatophyceae, and Chrysophyceae.
• the microalgae used with the methods of the invention are members of one of the following genera: Nannochioropsis, Chlorelia, Dunaliella, Scenedesmus,
• Non-limiting examples of microalgae species that can be used with the methods of the present invention include: Achnanthes orientalis, Agmenellum spp., Amphiprora hyaline, Amphora coffeiformis, Amphora coffeiformis var. iirsea, Amphora coffeiformis var. punctata, Amphora coffeiformis var. taylori, Amphora coffeiformis var. tenuis, Amphora deiicatissima. Amphora deiicatissima var. capitata, Amphora sp., Anabaena, Ankistrodesmus,
• aureoviridis Chlorella luteoviridis var. lutescens, Chlorella miniata, Chlorella minutissima, Chlorella mutabilis, Chlorella noetuma, Chlorella ovaiis, Chlorella parva, Chlorella photophiia, Chlorella pringsheimii, Chlorella protothecoides, Chlorella protothecoides var. acidicola, Chlorella regularis, Chlorella regularis var. minima, Chlorella regularis var. umbricata, Chlorella reisigiii, Chlorella saccharophila, Chlorella saccharophila var.
• Chlorella salina Chlorella simplex, Chlorella sorokmiana, Chlorella sp., Chlorella sphaerica, Chlorella stigmatophora, Chlorella vanniellii, Chlorella vulgaris, Chlorella vulgaris fo. tertia, Chlorella vulgaris var. autotrophica, Chlorella vulgaris var. viridis, Chlorella vulgaris var. vulgaris, Chlorella vulgaris var. vulgaris fo. tertia, Chlorella vulgaris var. vulgaris fo.
• Gloeothamnion sp. Haematococcus pluvialis, Hymenomonas sp., lsochrysis aff. galbana, lsochrysis galbana, Lepocinclis, Micractinium, Micractinium, Monoraphidium minutum, Monoraphidium sp., Nannochloris sp., Nannochloropsis salina, Nannochloropsis sp., Navicula acceptata, Navicula biskanterae, Navicula pseudoteiielloides, Navicula pelliculosa, Navicula saprophila, Navicula sp., Nephrochloris sp., Nephroselmis sp., Nitschia communis, Nitzschia alexandrina, Nitzschia elosterium, Nitzschia communis, Nitzschia dissipata, Nitzschia frustulurn, N
• Stichococcus sp. Synechococcus sp., Synechocystisf, Tagetes erecta, Tagetes patula,
• Tetraedron Tetraselmis sp., Tetraselmis suecica, Thalassiosira weissflogii, and Viridiella friderieiana
• the microorganisms are cultured autotrophically or photo rophically. In some embodiments, the microorganisms are cultured mixotrophically. In some embodiments, the microorganisms are cultured heterotrophicaily.
• the concentration of the microorganisms in the aqueous suspension will depend in part on the type of microorganism, size of the microorganism, maturity of the microorganism, cell wall characteristics of the microorganism, contaminant load, the culture temperature, the culture pH, the culture salinity level, available nutrients and other various parameters which may be modified or adjusted according to various embodiments. In other embodiments, such parameters are dictated by nature or the natural environment and the available resources.
• the aqueous slurry is cultured and used in the methods and systems at any suitable concentration, such as, but not limited, to a range from about 100 mg/L to about 5 g/L (e.g., about 500 mg/L to about 1 g/L).
• the pH of the slurry during aggregation can vary.
• the pH is alkaline.
• acid or base can be added to keep the pH at a desired level or measure, which can be kept in a range from 6- 10.
• FIG. 1 shows a rectangular channel embodiment of an aggregation device.
• FIG. 2A shows a rectangular channel embodiment of an aggregation de vice where the height of the channel varies over the length of the channel.
• FIG. 2B shows a rectangular channel embodiment of an aggregation device where the width of the channel varies over the length of the channel.
• FIG. 3A shows an embodiment with a channel formed by curved semi-circular electrodes separated by a pair of insulated spacers where the diameter of the channel varies over the length of the channel.
• FIG. 3B shows an embodiment with a channel formed by curved electrodes separated by a pair of insulated spacers where the height and width of the channel can vary over the length of the channel.
• FIG. 4A shows an embodiment with a series of rectangular channels coupled in a telescoping arrangement.
• FTG. 4B shows a side view of an embodiment with a series of rectangular channels coupled in a telescoping arrangement.
• FIG. 4C shows an embodiment with a series of curved channels coupled in a telescoping arrangement.
• FIG. 5A shows a tube-within-a-tube embodiment where the outer tube is conical and the inner tube has a constant diameter.
• FIG. 5B shows cut-away view of the tube-within-a-tube embodiment where the outer tube is conical and the inner tube has a constant diameter.
• FIG. 5C shows a tube-within-a-tube where the outer tube has a constant diameter and the inner tube is conical
• FIG. 5D shows a cut-away view of the tube-within-a-tube where the outer tube has a constant diameter and the inner tube is conical.
• FIG. 6 sho ws an embodiment with an arrangement of electrodes within a pipe or tube.
• FTG. 7A shows a straight-on view of an embodiment of electrodes within a pipe or tube.
• FIG. 7B shows a. side vie of an embodiment of electrodes within a pipe or tube.
• FIGS. 8A-C each show an embodiment with an arrangement of electrodes within a pipe or tube and various cross-sectional areas of electrical fields shown in dashed lines
• FIG. 9 shows an embodiment with an arrangement of electrodes within a pipe or tube and a cross-sectional area of an electrical field shown in dashed lines.
• FTG. 10 shows an embodiment with an arrangement of electrodes within a pipe or tube and a cross-sectional area of an electrical field shown in dashed lines.
• FIG. 1 1 shows an embodiment with an arrangement of electrodes within a pipe or tube and a cross-sectional area of an electrical field shown in dashed lines.
• FIG. 12 shows an embodiment with an arrangement of electrodes within a pipe or tube and a cross-sectional area of an electrical field shown in dashed lines.
• FIGS. 13A-C each show an embodiment with an arrangement of electrodes within a pipe or tube and various cross-sectional areas of electrical fields shown in dashed lines,
• FIGS. 14A-C each show an embodiment with an arrangement of electrodes within a pipe or tube and various cross-sectional areas of electrical fields shown in dashed lines.
• FIG. 15A shows a diagram of a system with multiple pulse generators and multiple electrode sets.
• FTG. 15B shows a diagram of a system with a programmable pulse generator.
• FIG. 16 shows an exemplary embodiment of a disassembled tube-within-a-tube configuration.
• FIG. 17 shows an exemplary embodiment of a disassembled tube-within-a-tube configuration.
• FIGS. 18A-D each show exemplary embodiments of series systems, parallel systems, and series/parallel systems with various electric and acoustic devices.
• FTG. 19 shows an exemplary system where the suspension exiting the electrical field may be recycled back into the apparatus for further treatment.
• FIGS. 20A-B each show exemplary systems that combine electrical energy and acoustic energy.
• FIG. 21 shows an exemplary embodiment that combines electrical and acoustic energy.
• FIG. 22 shows an exemplary embodiment that combines electrical and acoustic energy.
• some methods include providing an aggregation apparatus that includes, among other things, a channel or fluid path for flowing the microorganisms through an electrical field that is sufficiently strong to aggregate the microorganisms without causing lysing or disruption of the microorganism ceil walls or membranes.
• the apparatus includes an anode and a cathode that form a channel through which the aqueous slurry can flow.
• FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic of a portion of an aggregation device 100 that is suitable for use in various methods according to some embodiments.
• the illustrated portion of aggregation de vice 100 includes a body 102 that comprises an anode 104 and a cathode 106 electrically separated by an insulator 108.
• anode 104 and cathode 106 are spaced apart to form a channel 1 12 that defines a fluid flo path 110.
• channel 1 12 has a length 1 16 that extends the length of the anode and cathode exposed to the fluid flow path 1 10,
• channel 1 12 also has a width 1 18 that is defined by the space between the insulators 108 that is exposed to the anode 104 and cathode 106.
• channel 1 12 is bounded on its sides so as to form an opening and an exit through which fluid can be caused to flow (e.g., by pumping, gravity).
• the spaced insulators are not used and instead the anode 104 and cathode 106 are disposed in an opposing arrangement within a housing.
• the gap height 1 14 between anode 104 and cathode 106 has a distance suitable for applying an electrical field to the aqueous suspension.
• gap 1 14 is in a range from 0.5 mm to 200 mm.
• gap height 1 14 is in a range from 1 mm to 50 mm while in other embodiments gap height 1 14 is in a range from 2 mm to 20 mm.
• the narrow gap height 1 14 coupled with a comparatively large width 1 18 and length 116 can provide a large volume for channel 112 while maintaining a strong electrical field for aggregating the microorganisms.
• width 1 18 of channel 1 12 can be any width so long as the materials of anode 104 and cathode 106 are sufficiently strong to span the width without contacting one another and thus shorting the system or apparatus.
• the volume of channel 1 12 between anode 104 and cathode 106 and within gap distance 1 14, is at least 50 ml. In other embodiments, however, the gap volume is at least 200 ml while in other embodiments the gap volume is at least 500 ml. In yet additional embodiments, the gap volume is at least 1 liter. In other embodiments, the gap volume exceeds 1 liter.
• the surface area of anode 104 and cathode 106 exposed to fluid flow 1 10 is at least 500 cm 2 .
• the gap surface area is at least 1000 cm' while in other embodiments the gap surface area is at least 2000 cm 2 . In yet other embodiments, the gap surface area exceeds 2000 cm 2 .
• the gap width 1 1 8 and/or the gap height 1 14 can vary over the length of the channel, as illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B, In some embodiments with a long ilow path length, long residence time or recirculation of the electrically treated aqueous suspension the microorganisms may aggregate while within the channel flow path.
• a gap increasing in width and/or height over the length allows for fewer clogs as the microorganisms aggregate over the length of the flow path, and decreases the flow rate exiting the flow path 210.
• a gap decreasing in width and/or height over the length creates a nozzle and an increase in the flow rate exiting the flow path 210.
• the desired flow rate exiting the flow path may depend on the shear sensitivity of aggregations of microorganisms that form within the flow path.
• a gap varying in width and/or height over the length with a consistent current supply will adjust the properties of the electrical field over the length of th e channel by increasing or decreasing the intensity without adjusting the amount of current used.
• the change in the gap width 1 18 and/or the gap height 1 14 over the length of the body 202 can be achieved through various means such as, but not limited to, the shape of the insulators 208, the shape of the anode 204, the shape of the cathode 206, or any combination thereof.
• the height 220 of at least one of the insulators 208 increases over the length 216 of ihe channel 212.
• gap height 220 is greater than gap height 214.
• the height of the insulators 208 decreases over the length 216 of the channel 212 so that gap height 220 is less than gap height 214.
• the width 21 8 of the cathode 2.06 increases over the length of the channel 212.
• the width 218 of the cathode 206 decreases over the length of the channel.
• gap width 222 is smaller than gap width 218.
• the gap width decreases over the length of the channel.
• gap width 222 can be greater than gap width 218.
• the width of the anode increases over the length of the channel.
• the width of the anode decreases over the length of the channel.
• the width and height of the channel can both vary over the length of the channel.
• the channel is formed by a curved semi-circular anode and a curved semi-circular cathode separated by a pair of insulators, and has a circular cross-section.
• the circular cross-section may have a diameter increasing or decreasing over the length of the channel, similar to the height and width described above, to form a conical shaped channel.
• diameter 304 can be greater than diameter 302.
• diameter 304 can be less than diameter 302.
• the channel is formed by a curved anode and curved cathode separated by a pair of insulator, and has a curved cross-section that has a height and a width.
• FIG. 3B depicts width 306 and height 308.
• the height and width may vary over the length of the channel, so that the curved cross- section varies in size and shape over the length of the channel.
• the length of the channel is the dimension commensurate with or in the direction of fluid flow (the longimdinal direction) and can be any length so long as the channel is not occluded by clogging (e.g., with the microorganism aqueous suspension flowing there through) or hampered by significant pressure drops which decrease the flow rate below a desired value.
• the length of the channel is at least 25 cm. In other embodiments, however, the length is 50 cm, while in other embodiments the length is 100 cm. In still other embodiments, the length is at least 2.00 cm, while in yet other embodiments the length exceeds 200 cm. In additional embodiments, the length can be less than 1000 cm, less than 500 cm, or less than 250 cm.
• the dimensions of the channel are fixed.
• the gap width, the gap height of the channel, and the length of the channel are adjustable.
• An adjustable channel provides another method of adjusting the electric field and flow rate without changing the power source or pumps.
• An adjustable channel such as a telescoping configuration, also allows the apparatus to adjust in size to be retro fit into fixed spaces and allows for easier transportation when collapsed.
• the channel comprises a series of channels coupled in a telescoping manner as illustrated in FIG. 4A.
• the channel may be uniform when collapsed, and may have a decreasing height and width or an increasing height and width when the length is extended.
• the height of the series of channels can decrease over length 402 so that height 408 is greater than height 406 which is greater than height 404.
• the telescoping configuration can also be arranged so that that the algal suspension flows in the opposite direction than as illustrated in FIG. 4B, i.e., so that the height of the series of channels increases over length 402.
• the nested channels of a telescoping arrangement may be constructed as described above with an anode, cathode, and insulators forming the boundaries of the channel.
• FIGS. 4A and 4B In addition to the embodiments having telescoping rectangular channels shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, other telescoping embodiments have a series of channels formed by curved semi-circular anodes and curved semi-circular cathodes separated by a pair of insulators, as illustrated in FIG, 4C. In such embodiments, the series of channels can be arranged so ihai the diameter of the extended channel increases or decreases over the length of the extended telescoping configuration.
• the channel may be defined by an outer conductive tube forming a first electrode and a second electrode positioned within the inner void of the outer conductive tube.
• the electrodes comprise a "tube within a tube” electrode arrangement of any shaped tubes, such as, but not limited, to circular tubes or polygon tubes.
• the inner electrode is placed concentrically within the outer electrode.
• the inner electrode is a solid rod.
• the inner electrode is planar.
• the outer conductive tube comprises a series of spaced ring electrodes.
• the inner and outer electrodes are different shapes.
• the outer conical electrode can have an increasing diameter over length 504 so that 506 (exit flow diameter) is greater than 502 (inflow diameter).
• the inner electrode is tubular with a constant diameter, as shown in FIG. 5B.
• fluid can flow in the opposite direction so that the channel has a decreasing diameter over length 504 of the channel.
• the outer electrode is tubular with a constant diameter and the inner electrode is conical with a diameter that increases over length 510 so that exit flow diameter 512 is greater than inflow diameter 508.
• the conical shape of the inner electrode is shown in FIG. 5D.
• the fluid can flow in the opposite direction so that that the diameter of the inner conical electrode decreases over length 510.
• the outer and inner electrodes comprise a series of channels coupled in a telescoping manner, as described above.
• the telescoping outer and inner electrodes have an asymmetrical number of telescoping sections or thicknesses, which results in a change in the channel cross-sectional area when extended.
• the anode and cathode can be made of any electrically conductive material suitable for applying an electrical field across the various gaps described herein, including but not limited to metals such as, but not limited to, steel, alummum, copper, nickel, titanium and conductive composites or polymers, such as graphite.
• the material selected for the anode and cathode are resistant to corrosion, while in other embodiments the material selected is non-corrosive or damage stabilized.
• the electrically conductive material may be coated by materials comprising iridium, ruthenium, platinum, rhodium, tantalum, and mixed metal polymers. The electrode material and coating may be selected to minimize the amount of pitting on the electrode and/or the amount of the electrode conductive material or coating which leaches into the aqueous suspension during operation.
• the shape of the anode and cathode can be planar, cylindrical or any other suitable solid, hollow, wire, mesh or perforated shape(s).
• an annulus created between an inner conductive (and in some embodiments metallic) surface of a larger tube and an outer surface of a smaller conductive tube (also metallic according to some embodiments) placed within the larger tube is suitable for its ability to avoid fouling and/or shorting and to maintain a high surface area in a compact design.
• the tubes need not have a circular periphery as an inner or outer tube may be square, rectangular, polygonal, or any other suitable shape according to various embodiments.
• the tube shape does not necessarily have to be the same, thereby permitting tube shapes of the inner and outer tubes to be different in some embodiments.
• the inner (smaller) conductive tube and outer (larger) conductive tube are concentric tubes, with at least one tube, preferably the outer tube, being provided with a plurality of spiral grooves separated by lands to impart a rifling to the tube. This rifling, according to some embodiments, has been found to decrease build-up of residue on (he tube surfaces.
• the electrodes may comprise wire electrode wrapped in a coil configuration. Either the anode and/or the cathode may be spiral shaped or form one or more rings in the conduit containing the liquid flow.
• electrical insulators such as plastic tubes, baffles, and other devices
• electrical insulators can be used to separate a large aggregation device into a plurality of zones, so as to efficiently scale-up the invention for commercial applications.
• the aqueous suspension containing microorganisms is fed through a channel along fluid flow path between the anode and cathode (i.e., through the gap).
• power is applied to the anode and cathode to produce an electrical field that aggregates the
• the characteristics of the electrical field depend on the composition of the aqueous suspension, the gap dimensions, the electrode materials, the characteristics of the electrical current, and the flow rate.
• the apparatus comprises an aqueous suspension disposed between the cathode and anode.
• the aqueous suspension containing microorganisms is caused to flow through the channel using a pump or gravity.
• a negative connection is made to the anode, which provides electrical grounding.
• a positive electrical input is also delivered by way of a conduit connection in order to provide a positive electrical transfer throughout the cathode.
• the positive current when a positive current is applied to the cathode, the positive current then seeks a grounding circuit for electrical transfer, or in this case, to the anode, which allo ws the completion of an electrical circuit.
• an electrical field is created through a transfer of electrons between the positive and negative surfaces areas, but only when an electrically conductive liquid is present between them.
• an electrical transfer from the cathode through slurry to the anode occurs.
• the microorganism cells are exposed to an electric field that causes aggregation of the ceils or otherwise induces the cells to subsequently aggregate following exposure to the electric field.
• the cathode uses a positive electrical connection point, which is used for positive current input according to some embodiments.
• positive transfer polarizes the entire length and width of the cathode and seeks a grounding source in the anode.
• the anode includes a grounding connection point, which allows an electrical transfer to occur through aqueous slurry according to some embodiments.
• the aqueous slurry includes a liquid medium that contains a nutrient source mainly composed of a conductive mineral content thai was used during a growth phase of the microorganism in the aqueous slurry.
• the liquid medium containing the nutrient source further allows positive electrical input to transfer between the cathode through the liquid medium/biomass to the anode, which, according to some embodiments, only occurs when the liquid medium is present or flowing.
• the amount of electrical voltage and/or current or frequency input can be adjusted based on a matrix formula of grams of microorganism biomass contained in 1 liter of the liquid medium.
• the electrodes within a pipe or tube comprise an arrangement in which the electrodes are capable of changing the cross-sectional shape and area of the electric field within the flow path of the channel, as shown in FIG. 6.
• the electrodes comprise at least one cathode 613, at least one anode 609, at least one collector electrode 61 1, and at least one control electrode 615.
• the at least one cathode 613 may be solid or hollow.
• the at least one cathode 613 may be a rod, plate or tube.
• the at least one cathode 613 may have a circular, oval or polygonal shaped cross-section.
• the at least one anode 609 may have a semi-circular cross section or a circular cross section.
• the at least one collector electrode 61 1 may have a circular, oval, polygonal, curved or v-shaped cross-section.
• the at least one control electrode 615 may have a circular, oval or polygonal shaped cross- section.
• the at least one collector electrode and the at least one anode are maintained at a positive potential with respect to the at least one cathode.
• the positive potential of the at least one anode is larger than the potential of the at least one collector electrode.
• the at least one control electrode is maintained at a negative potential with respect to the at least one cathode.
• the ratio between the positive field and the negative field may be changed by increasing or decreasing the potential of the at least one collector electrode and or the at least one control electrode, thus affecting the cross-sectional area of the electrical field.
• the electrical field With the ability to increase or decrease the cross-sectional area of the electrical field, the electrical field can be focused to a desired size or a desired location within the flow path channel. This allows for a more focused and finely tuned application of electricity to the algae suspension, which in turn allows for better manipulation and control of the algal flow.
• Decreasing the negative potential of the at least one control electrode allows the current flow from the at least one cathode to the central portion of the at least one collector electrode, or to the edge of the at least one collector electrode, or beyond the at least one collector electrode to the at least one anode.
• the cross-sectional area of the current flow from the at l east one cathode to the at least one anode can be con tracted by increasing the negative poten tial of the at least one control electrode.
• Increasing the positive potential of the at least one collector electrode can also expand the cross-sectional area of current flowing from the at least one cathode to a larger surface area of the at least one collector electrode. Decreasing the positive potential of the at least one collector electrode can also contract the cross-sectional area current flowing from the at least one cathode to a smaller surface area of the at least one collector electrode. Decreasing the positive potential of the at least one collector electrode when the negative potential of the at least one control electrode is also decreased will expand the cross-sectional area of the current flow from the at least one cathode to the at least one anode, and decrease the current flow from the at least one cathode to the at least one collector electrode.
• two curved plate anodes 709 are disposed opposite each and on the inner surface of a tube or pipe shaped housing 701 in FIGS. 7A-B.
• the tube or pipe shaped housing 701 may be made from a non- conductive material.
• Disposed between the two anodes 709 are a vertical pair of parallel plate collector electrodes 71 1.
• a circular cross-section shaped rod cathode 713 is centered between the anodes 709 and the collector electrodes 71 1.
• Two circular rod shaped control electrodes 715 are disposed on each side of the cathode 713 between the cathode 713 and one of the anodes 709.
• the anodes 709 may be electrically independent of each other and supplied current by individual connections.
• a flow path for an aqueous suspension is provided between the interior surface of the tube or pipe shaped housing and the exterior surfaces of the various electrodes.
• the potential applied to the collector electrodes 81 1 and/or the control electrodes 815 can manipulate the cross-sectional area of the electrical field.
• the control electrodes 815 may be biased negatively to an extent sufficient to compel the current leaving the cathode 813 to travel to the collector electrodes 81 1 and not reach the anodes 809.
• a high positive potential of the collector electrodes 81 1 nor a high negative potential on the control electrodes 815 is necessary.
• the cross-sectional area of the electrical field expands out towards the edge of the collector electrodes 811.
• a decrease in the positive potential applied to the collector electrodes 81 1 or a further decrease in the negative potential applied to the control electrodes 815 results in the cross-sectional area of the electrical field expanding beyond the surface of the collector electrodes 81 1 to the anodes 809.
• manipulating the collector electrodes 81 1 and control electrodes 815 in an opposite manner will contract the cross-sectional area of the electrical field. Variations in the electrical field are expressed as dashed lines in the FIGS,
• the anode 909, 1009 comprises a round, conductive tube or a series of conductive rings
• the cathode 913, 1013 is a circular rod disposed concentrically within the anode 909, 1009
• the anode 909, 1009 may be disposed within a tubular housing or piping 901, 1001.
• the collector electrodes 91 1, 101 1 comprise four rods 91 1 or plates 101 1 disposed with even spacing around the cathode 913, 1013, and between the anode 909, 1009 and the cathode 913, 1013.
• the control electrodes 915, 1015 comprise four rods disposed with even spacing around the cathode 913, 1013, and between the anode 909, 1009 and the cathode 913, 1013.
• a flow path for an aqueous suspension is provided between the inner surface of the anode 909, 1009 and the exterior surfaces of the other electrodes.
• the anode 1 109 comprises two curved plates disposed opposite each other and within the inner surface of a tube or pipe 1 101.
• the cathode 1 113 comprises a circular cross-section shaped rod centered between the anodes 1 109
• the collector electrodes 1 11 1 comprise a vertical pair of plates with a v -shaped cross-section disposed between the anodes 1 109 and on opposing sides of the cathode 11 13.
• the two control electrodes 1 1 15 plates are disposed on each side of the cathode 1 1 13 between the cathode 1 1 13 and one of the anodes 1 109.
• a flow path for an aqueous suspension is provided between the inner surface of the anode 1 109 and the exterior surfaces of the other electrodes.
• the anode 1209 comprises a single curved plate.
• the collector electrode 121 1 comprises a plate with a v-sliaped cross- section disposed opposite the anode 1209.
• the cathode 1213 comprises a circular cross-section shaped rod centered between the anode 1209 and the collector electrode 121 1,
• the control electrode 1215 comprises a flat pate disposed between the cathode 1213 and the anode 1209.
• a flow path for an aqueous suspension is provided within a tube or pipe shaped housing which houses the electrodes, and particularly between the anode 1209 and collector electrode 121 1.
• the anode 1309 comprises a round, conductive tube or series of conductive rings
• the cathode 1313 is a square rod disposed concentrically within the anode 1309.
• the collector electrodes 131 1 comprise a pair of flat plates disposed on opposite sides of the cathode 1313.
• the control electrodes 1315 comprise a pair of flat plates disposed on opposite sides of the cathode.
• a flow path for an aqueous suspension is provided between the interior surface of the anode 1309 and the exterior surfaces of the other electrodes. The entire set is located inside a non-conductive tubular housing 1301.
• anode 1409 comprises two curved plates disposed opposite each other.
• Cathode 1413 comprises a circular cross-section shaped electrode centered between anodes 1409.
• Collector electrodes 141 1 comprise a vertical pair of plates spaced evenly around cathode 1413 and between anodes 1409 and cathode 1413.
• Two control electrodes 1414 are disposed on each side of cathode 1413 between cathode 1413 and one of anodes 1409.
• a flow path for an aqueous suspension is provided between the interior surface of the anode 1409 and the exterior surfaces of the other electrodes.
• the foregoing electrical transfer through the living microorganism is achievable due to nutrients containing electrically conductive minerals suspended within the aqueous suspension or the salinity level of ihe aqueous suspension.
• the flow rate through the gap volume (i.e., the portion of channel 1 12 in the electric field at the gap distance 1 14) is 0.1 ml/second per ml of gap volume. In other embodiments, however, ihe flow rate tiirough the gap volume is ai leasi 0.5 ml/second per ml of gap volume while in other embodiments the flow rate through the gap volume is at least 1.0 ml/second per ml of gap volume. In still other embodiments, the flow rate through the gap volume is at least 1.5 ml/second per ml of gap volume. In yet other embodiments, the flow rate through the gap volume exceeds 1.5 ml/second per ml of gap volume. In at least one additional embodiment, the flow rate can be controlled by controlling the pressure using a pump or other suitable fluid flow mechanical devices. In other embodiments, the flow rate is affected by the varying dimensions of the flow path channel
• the electrical field is sustained at a constant or continuous level with direct current, m some embodiments, the electrical field is varied by using an alternating current or can be pulsed on and off repeatedly. Whether the electrical field is continuous, vary ing, or pulsed, the amplitude and/or intensity of the electrical field is selected to induce aggregation of the microorganisms within the aqueous suspension without lysing or disrupting the cell membrane of the microorganisms. According to such embodiments, voltages can be higher and peak amperage lower while average amperage remains relatively low. in such embodiments, this condition or controlled circumstance reduces the energy requirements for operating the apparatus and reduces wear on the anode and cathode pair or pairs.
• the frequency of the electrical field pulse is at least about 500 Hz, 1 kHz, 2. kHz, 30 kHz, 50, kHz, 80, kHz, or 200 kHz.
• the electrical pulse duration ranges from 1 nanosecond to 100,000 nanoseconds, 1 to 1 ,000 nanoseconds, 1 to 500 nanoseconds, or 10 to 300 nanoseconds; allowing for frequencies of about 10 kHz to 1,000,000 kHz. Ranges for the pulse frequency can be any combination of the foregoing maximum and minimum frequencies according to various embodiments. In some
• the use of nanosecond pulses reduces the thermal effects on the aqueous suspension and the production of excess free charges in the aqueous slurry, which may limit the galvanic processes that lead to corrosion, pitting, and leaching of electrode metals.
• the use of a pulsed electrical field reduces the overall power requirements of the apparatus, system and/or method, compared to the use of a constant or continuous electrical field.
• the electrical pulses are provided by a pulse generator.
• the pulse shape is rectangular, trapezoidal, exponentially decaying, unipolar or bipolar.
• the pulse generator produces two different pulse types.
• the pulse generator produces at least two different pulse types.
• the pulses are provided in a continuous manner and each pulse is identical in pulse amplitude, pulse duration, pulse shape, and pause duration between pulses.
• the pulses are provided in continuous manner and at least one of the pulse amplitude, pulse duration, pulse shape, and pause duration between pulses varies.
• the pulse amplitude and duration are identical in each pulse, but the duration of the pause between pulses varies.
• the pulses alternate between two different pulses in a pattern, such as but not limited to long pulse then short pulse.
• the pattern of pulses repeat a pattern more complex than simply alternating between two pulse types (similar to a Morse code transmission), such as but not limited to short pulse, short pulse, long pulse, short pulse, long pulse, long pulse.
• the pattern of pulses comprises more than two pulse types.
• FIG. 15A shows multiple pulse generators and multiple electrode sets, as shown in FIG. 15A.
• the varying pulse patterns are programmable into the pulse generator.
• FIG. 15B shows an exemplary scheme of an apparatus that includes a
• the pulse pattern program utilized by the pulse generator is selected by a computerized controller based on sensory input such as, but not limited to, turbidity of the aqueous suspension, density of the aqueous suspension, composition of the aqueous suspension, and flow rate.
• the power supply provides alternating current while in other embodiments the power supply provides direct current.
• the anode and the cathode pair are fsxed during aggregation while in other embodiments the anode/cathode pair or circuit alternates during aggregation.
• the average amperage is at least 1 amp, 5 amps, 10 amps, 50 amps, or even at least 100 amps.
• the maximum amps can be less than 200 amps, less than 100 amps, less than 50 amps, or less than 10 amps.
• the range of amperage can be any range from the foregoing maximum and minimum amperages according to various embodiments.
• the current density t amps cm ' is defined as the flow of the electric charge per surface area of the electrodes. The current level and dimensions of the electrode may be selected together in a manner to optimize the current density, which is a factor in the pitting and or leaching of the electrode metals,
• the voltage can be at least I V, 10V, 100V, 1 kV, 20 kV, 50 kV, 100 kV, or 500 kV.
• the range of voltage can be any range of the foregoing maximum and mimmum voltages according to various embodiments.
• the voltage of the electrical field may be selected in conjunction with the gap distance of the flow path to produce an optimal electrical field for aggregating microorganisms without lysing or disrupting the cell membranes.
• the amplitude (the applied voltage divided by distance between electrodes) of the electrical fields to which the aqueous slurry is exposed to may range from 0,05 V/'cni to 1,000 kV/'cm.
• the amplitudes of the electrical fields to which the aqueous slurry is exposed to may range from 0, 1 to 100,000 kV/cm, 10 to 1 ,000 kV/com, 50 to 500 kV/cm, or 100 to 400 kV/cm.
• the peak power of the electrical field may be at least 500 kW, or at least 1 megawatt.
• the energy delivered by the electrical field may range from 0.1 to 100 joules, or 1 to 10 joules.
• electrical field may be tuned to induce aggregation of the microorganisms in 1 -60 seconds, less than 5 minutes, less than 15 minutes, less than minutes, or less than one hour.
• apparatus 1622 is comprised of a "tube within a tube" configuration according to some embodiments.
• FIG. 16 illustrates a disassembled aggregation de vice showing a first (smaller) conductive tube 1603 (hereinafter cathode 1603, although conductive tube 1603 may also be the anode or switch between anode and cathode according to various embodiments) that is configured to be placed in a second (larger) conductive tube 1602 (hereinafter anode 1602, although conductive tube
• the outer anode tube 1602 may also be the cathode or switch between anode and cathode according to various embodiments).
• the outer anode tube 1602 includes a pair of containment sealing end caps 1607 and 1608.
• sealing end cap 1607 provides an entry point 1609 used to accept an aqueous suspension.
• the opposing end cap 1608 provides an exit point 1610 to the outward flowing aqueous suspension.
• the inner cathode tube is the inner cathode tube
• FIG. 1603 includes sealed end caps 161 1 and 1612. to prevent liquid flow through the center of the tube and to divert the flow between the inner surface of anode 1602 and the outer surface of cathode 1603, thereby forming a channel or annuius between anode 1602 and cathode 1603.
• the channel can be sized and configured as described above. According to the foregoing embodiments, the use of a "'tube within a tube" configuration is particularly advantageous for avoiding fouling or shorting by the microorganisms in the aqueous suspension. [8134] Turning now to FIG. 17, an alternative embodiment of apparatus 1722 is illustrated. As seen in FIG.
• an insulative spacer 1716 is positioned in the channel between anode 1702 and cathode 1703 to cause spiraiing fluid flow.
• insulative spiraiing isolator spacer 1716 serves as a liquid seal between the two wall surfaces 1714 and 1715 with the thickness of the spacer preferably providing equal distance spacing between anode 1702 and cathode 1703.
• the spacing and directional flow can cause the fluid flow path to complete a three hundred and sixty degree transfer of electrical current around anode 1702 and cathode tube 1703.
• the spacer 1716 can also help prevent contact between anode 1702 and cathode 1703, which prevents shorting or fouling the anode and cathode pair and forces electrical current through the liquid medium.
• the spiraiing isolator 1716 also provides a gap 1713 between the two wall surfaces 1714 and 1715 allowing a passage way for a flowing aqueous suspension 1701.
• the spiraiing directional flow further provides a longer transit duration or residence time, which in tarn provides greater electrical exposure to the flowing aqueous suspension 1701 thus increasing aggregation efficiency at a lower per kilowatt hour consumption rate.
• the width of the gap 1713 is uniform over the length of the passage way.
• the width of the gap 1713 increases or decreases over the length of the passage way.
• any suitable material can be used as a spacer.
• ceramic, polymeric, vinyl, PVC plastics, bio-plastics, vinyl, monofilament, vinyl rubber, synthetic rubber, or other non-conductive materials are used.
• a plurality of anode and cathode circuits are configured in parallel having a common upper manifold chamber, which receives an in flowing biomass a through entry port.
• the biomass a once entering into the upper manifold chamber, the biomass a makes a downward connection into each individual anode and cathode circuit through entry ports, which allow a flowing connection, or a fluid connection, to the sealing end caps.
• the flowing biomass i.e., the aqueous suspension of microorganisms
• the flowing biomass exits into a lower manifold chamber where the biomass is then directed to flow out of the apparatus (system) through an exit point.
• each anode and cathode circuit may have different characteristics, such as but not limited to, height, width, diameter, length, electrode material, electrical field amplitude/intensity, electrical field cross section, and electrical pulse frequency/duration.
• the degree of aggregation and/or the electrode material requirements may be different. For example, if the resulting aggregated microorganisms being sold as whole algae may require different processing and ending solids percent than aggregated microorganisms that will go through further downstream processing, such as an extraction process.
• the electrode materials may have a different effect on the microorganisms, therefore requiring microorganisms for specific products to be aggregated with electrodes of a specific material.
• the differently configured flow paths with parallel anode and cathode circuits would allow the aqueous suspension to be split into separate streams for concurrent processing for different outputs. The differently processed streams may exit the anode and cathode circuits into different separation tanks to maintain segregation before going on to further processing.
• the plurality of anode and cathode circuits with differently configured flow paths may be connected in series, allowing the aqueous suspension to go from one anode and cathode circuit to the next in a series of varying conditions without adjusting the equipment.
• FIGS. 18A-D Embodiments of the various configurations are illustrated in FIGS. 18A-D.
• Each different EA (elec tro apparatus) designates a different electric aggregating device. Any of the representee aggregating systems described in this specification can be used as a particular EA shown in the FIGS. 18A-D.
• the plurality of anode and cathode circuits comprise the same configuration and are connected in series to increase the residence time of the aqueous suspension within the electrical field.
• the apparatus may switch between a parallel connection configuration and a series connection configuration.
• the plurality of anode and cathode circuits are all connected in parallel or all connected in series.
• the plurality of anode and cathode circuits are connect ed in a combinat ion of parallel and series configurations.
• Non-limiting examples of such embodiments with a combination of series and parallel connections include: a plurality of groups of circuits connec ted in parallel wherein each group of circuits consists of at least two y circuits connected in a series; half of the circuits connected in parallel and the other half of the circuits connected in a series: and a plurality of groups of circuits connected in series wherein each group of circuit consists of at least two circuits connected in parall el.
• the various system embodiments discussed above are adjustable, and can be set up with various flow rates, voltage, amperage, electrical pulse frequency/duration, eieciricai field ampiiiude/intensity, flow path width, flow path height, flow path diameter, flow path length and/or variable temperatures. According to some embodiments,
• the microorganisms in suspension enter into an electrical field and are subjected to a current input for a prescribed iransit or residence time within the system (which can be adjusted according to flow rate, the use of spiraled or rifled circuits, or flow path dimensions) which dictates the degree to which the microorganisms are aggregated.
• a prescribed iransit or residence time within the system (which can be adjusted according to flow rate, the use of spiraled or rifled circuits, or flow path dimensions) which dictates the degree to which the microorganisms are aggregated.
• various determining factors for this method include, but are not limited to:
• the amount of energy input (total wattage as a combination of volts and amps);
• the type of electrical input applied such as direct current, alternating current or electrical pulses
• the flow path length (e.g., a rifled interior circuit can have closer rifle spacing for a longer residence or duration flow or electrical field exposure time, a larger rifle spacing for a shorter duration flo or electrical field exposure time, or a telescoping arrangement that can extend and contract in length);
• the electrodes can have a smaller gap for longer duration or electrical field exposure time or field strength, or a larger gap for a shorter duration flow or electrical field exposure time or field strength;
• the electrode materials such as steel, aluminum, copper, titanium, nickel, graphite, or conductive polymers, and any coatings on the electrode materials;
• the concentration of the microorganism culture and/or
• the longer the total transit or residence time which can be determined by an adjustable flo rate or flo path dimensions, in combination with higher electrical input, provides greater electrical field exposure to the aqueous suspension.
• when setting lower electrical input and higher flow rate parameters provides a lesser electrical field exposure.
• the use of electrical fields is used to aggregate the microorganisms of an aqueous suspension.
• microorganisms are grown in a liquid medium.
• the microorganisms are grown in a growth chamber.
• a growth chamber may comprise or be comprised of a reactor, a photobioreactor, a pond, or a fermenter.
• the microorganisms may be grown in a natural or outdoor environment.
• the growth chamber can be any body of water or container or vessel in which all requirements for sustaining life of the microorganisms are provided.
• growth chambers include, but are not limited to, an open pond, a trough, a tube, a bag, or an enclosed growth tank.
• the microorganisms When added to the aggregation device, the microorganisms are generally in the form of a live slurry (also referred to herein as "biomass") according to certain embodiments.
• the Jive slurry is an aqueous suspension that includes microorganisms, water and nutrients such as an algal culture formula comprising Guillard's 1 75 F/2 algae food formula (0.82% Iron, 0.034% Manganese, 0.002% Cobalt, 0.0037% Zinc, 0.0017% Copper, 0.0009% Molybdate, 9.33% Nitrogen, 2.0% Phosphate, 0.07% Vitamin B l, 0.0002% Vitamin BI2, and 0.0002%» Biotin) or a variation thereof, that provides nitrogen, vitamins and essential trace minerals for improved growth rates in freshwater and marine microorganisms.
• any s Amble concentration of microorganisms and sodium chloride, fresh, brackish or wastewater can be used, such that the microorganisms grow in the aqueous suspension.
• the microorganisms may be harvested by drawing the aqueous microorganism slurry from the growth chamber using various techniques.
• the method of aggregating microorganisms can be earned out by periodically drawing microorganisms from a growth chamber in a manner that maintains a steady rate of growth.
• steady state growth can be achieved by drawing microorganisms at a rate of less than half the microorganism mass per unit time that it takes for the microorganism to double.
• microorganisms are harvested at least as often as the doubling time of the microorganism. In other embodiments, however, the microorganism are harvested at least twice during the doubling time of the microorganism.
• the doubling time will depend on the microorganism type and growth conditions but can be as little as 6 hours to several days.
• the method continues, according to some embodiments, through the use of cavitation.
• the slurry prior to aggregation, can optionally be processed using cavitation and/or heating.
• the slurry is then aggregated using an electrical field as described herein and according to various embodiments disclosed herein.
• the aqueous slurry is then delivered to the aggregating apparatus using any means, such as, but not limited to, gravity or a liquid pump.
• the aqueous microorganism slurry is flowed via a conduit into an inlet section of an anode and cathode circuit of an aggregation device using any suitable device or apparatus, e.g., pipes, canals, or other conventional water moving apparatus(es).
• a growth chamber or reactor is operably connected to the aggregating apparatus such that the microorganisms within the growth chamber or reactor can be transferred to the apparatus as discussed abo ve.
• the aggregated slurry is dewatered.
• dewatering is carried out by separating a portion of the aqueous medium from the aggregated microorganisms using various techniques.
• the treated, aggregated microorganisms can be harvested from the top of the tank such as by skimming or passing over a weir, where they can be recovered and/or further processed.
• the aggregated microorganisms can float to the surface by creating a bubble stream, either by cavitation of the creation of microbubbles from a microbubble generator or fluidic oscillator, and impinging the bubbles beneath the aggregated microorganisms to cause them to rise to the surface in a froth.
• a skimming device is then used to harvest the froth floating on the surface of the liquid column.
• the remaining liquid e.g., water
• the aggregated microorganisms may be denser than the liquid medium and allowed to sink to the bottom of a settling tank.
• the aggregated microorganisms can be collected in a gravity settling tank and the clarified water can be recycled.
• the aggregated microorganisms are separated by a foam fractionation device.
• the foam fractionation device receives the aqueous suspension containing aggregated microorganisms, and creates a gas/liquid mixture in a liquid chamber by injecting a gas and producing bubbles/microbubbies.
• the bubbles/microbubbles cause aggregated particles of a threshold size to float to the surface of the liquid chamber and form a foam which may be collected.
• Any other conventional technique for removing particles such as filtering, settling, floeculation, centrifugation or other particle aggregation technique may be used, either before or after, in conjunction with the techniques of the present invention.
• At least a portion of the aqueous suspension exiting the electrical field may be recycled for further exposure to the electrical field for aggregation.
• Such a system is illustrated in FIG. 19, A system with multiple passes of at least a portion of the aqueous suspension through the elecirical field increases residence time for a device to achie ve a desired le vel of aggregation without adjusting the flow path characteristics. Multiple passes could also achieve the same results with less physical equipment (shorter pipes, fewer electrodes, etc.).
• the multiple pass system may run the entire volume of the aqueous suspension through the electrical field multiple times before treating a new volume of aqueous suspension in a batch process.
• the multiple pass system may bleed off a first portion of the aqueous suspension to be mixed with a volume of untreated aqueous suspension and recirculated through the electrical field in a continuous recycle method, while a second portion continues to the separation device or tank.
• the second portion contains a higher content of aggregated microorganisms than the first portion before the first portion is recirculated.
• the volume of the aqueous suspension that is bled off and recirculated is determined by a computer controlled system comprising sensors.
• the sensors may comprise turbidity and/or density sensors located at the inlet and exit of the flow path comprising the electrical field. The output from the sensors may be used to control the recirculation of the aqueous suspension based on the sensor output meeting a certain threshold turbidity/density value or change in turbidity/density value.
• the temperature of the aqueous suspension can also be adjusted to control the specific gravity of the water relative to the microorganism.
• the liquid medium typically composed primarily of water
• alterations to the liquid medium hydrogen density occurs as the liquid medium (typically composed primarily of water) is heated or cooled. This alteration of density can allow a normally less dense material to sink. This alteration, according to some embodiments, also allows easier harvesting of the aggregated microorganism.
• an applied heating device attaches to the outside wall surfaces of the cathode and the anode, which allows heat transfer to penetrate into the aqueous slurr '-.
• changes to the specific gravity of the liquid medium, which is mainly composed of water, by heating allows alteration in its compound structures which is mainly due to alterations to the hydrogen element which when altered, lessens the water density.
• this density change allows a normally less dense material contained within a water column to sink or, in some embodiments, an aggregated mass of microorganisms to sink.
• a heat exchanger device attached to the outside walls of the cathode and the anode allows heat to transfer out of the electrodes and/or aqueous slurry.
• the temperature of the aqueous slurry may be controlled to maintain the microorganisms in a desired condition.
• a micron mixing device such as a static mixer or other suitable device such as a high throughput stirrer, blade mixer or other mixing device is used to produce a foam layer composed of microbubbles within a liquid medium containing aggregated microorganisms.
• a micron mixing device such as a static mixer or other suitable device such as a high throughput stirrer, blade mixer or other mixing device is used to produce a foam layer composed of microbubbles within a liquid medium containing aggregated microorganisms.
• any device suitable for generating microbubbles can be used.
• the homogenized mixture begins to rise and float upwards.
• the aggregated microorganisms freely attach to the rising bubbles, or due to bubble collision, rise to the surface.
• the foam lay er containing these aggregated microorganisms has risen to the top of the liquid column as described with reference to some embodiments, the v aluable microorganisms now can be easily skimmed from the surface of the liquid medium and deposited into a harvest tank for later product refinement or other subsequent processes according to various embodiments.
• the water content trapped within the foam layer generally results in less than 10% of the original liquid mass. ' Trapped within the foam, according to such embodiments, are the aggregated microorganisms, and the foam is easily floated or skimmed off the surface of the liquid medium.
• this process uses only dewatering of the foam, rather than e v aporating the total liquid volume needed for conventional harvest purposes. Such embodiments drastically reduce the dewatering process, energy and/or any chemical inputs while increasing harvest yield and efficiency as well as purity. Further, in such embodiments, water can be recycled to the growth chamber or removed from the system.
• microorganisms can be harvested at any appropriate time, including, for example, daily (batch harvesting) according to various embodiments, in another example or alternative embodiments, microorganisms are harvested continuously (e.g., a slow, constant harvest).
• the liquid medium once the liquid medium has achieved passage through the electrical field, it is allowed to flow over into a secondary or separation tank (or directly into a device that is located near the bottom of the tank).
• the secondary tank is a tank containing a micron bubble device or having a micron bubble device attached for desired microorganism separation and dewatering.
• a static mixer or other suitable device e.g., any static mixer or device which accomplishes a similar effect of producing microbubbles
• the static mixer When activated, the static mixer produces a series of micron bubbles resulting in a foam layer that develops within the liqmd medium.
• bubbled foam layers radiate outwards through the liquid and begin to rise and float upwards.
• microorganisms suspended within the liquid medium attach to the micron bubbles floating upwards to the surface.
• a lower mounting location for a micron mixer when in association with secondary tank and containing a previously treated biomass suspended within a liquid medium.
• the liquid medium is then allowed to flow through a lower secondary tank outlet where it is directed to flow through conduit having a directional flow relationship with a liquid pump.
• the liquid is allowed a single pass through, or to re-circulate through the micron mixer via a micron mixer inlet opening.
• microscopic bubbles are increasingly produced relative to each cycle.
• micro bubbles radiate outwards within the liquid column, forming a foam layer.
• the composed layer starts to rise upwards towards the surface of the liquid column.
• the pump is shut down, and thus the micronization process is complete. According to such embodiments, this allows all micron bubbles produced at the lower exit point of the micron mixer to rise to the surface, and, as they do, they start collecting aggregated microorganisms in the liquid medium.
• the aggregated microorganisms adhere to the micron bubbles floating upwards towards the surface.
• pump remains on and continues to produce additional micron bubbles even after the foam layer starts its upward journey. According to such embodiments, the system is allo wed to continually process an ongoing flow being introduced to the secondary or separation tank.
• a method according to various embodiments for harvesting a foam layer containing approximately ten percent ( 10%) of the original liquid medium mass/biomass is described below.
• a skimming device can be used to remove the foam layer from the surface of liquid medium.
• the skimming device located at the surface area of the secondary tank allo ws the foam layer to be pushed over the side wall of the secondary tank and into a harvesting container where the foam layer is allowed to accumulate for further substance harvesting procedures.
• any of the apparatuses, systems and methods for aggregating microorganisms contained in an aqueous suspension using an electrical field may be combined with a method using a chemical aggregating agent.
• the chemical aggregating agent facilitates the aggregation of the microorganisms chemically, and in other embodiments the chemical aggregating agent improves the electrical conductivity of the aqueous suspension to facilitate the aggregation of the microorganisms electrically (e.g. change in surface charge).
• the aggregating agents may include, but are not limited to, salt, alum, aluminum chlorohydrate, aluminum sulfate, calcium oxide calcium hydroxide, iron (III) chloride, iron (IT) sulfate, polyacrylamide, poiyDADMAC, sodium aluminate, sodium silicate, chitosan, Moringa oleifera seeds, papain, strychnos seeds, isinglass, and combinations thereof. Specific binding agents to one or more components of the microorganism may also be used.
• the chemical aggregating agent may act directly on the microorganism being aggregated or it may enhance the activity of electroaggregation or acoustic aggregation. Acoustic Energy Embodiments
• acoustic energy in addition to the use of electrical energy to aggregate and separate microorganisms in a flowing aqueous culture medium, acoustic energy also provides a chemical free method of inducing concentration and separation of microorganisms in a flowing aqueous culture medium.
• electrical energy can be used by a function generator to produce a radio frequency signal which is converted to acoustic energy by transducers. Transducers in contact with the tube or channel through which the aqueous culture medium is flowing form a standing wave of acoustic pressure within the tube by vibrating the tube.
• the standing wave of acoustic pressure varies the pressure within the tube, creating areas of high pressure and nodes of low or minima pressure.
• microorganisms may be pushed towards the minima pressure nodes.
• the microorganisms can be concentrated in a consistent location for coagulation, tlocculation and/or separation from the medium.
• an acoustic energy apparatus comprises: a power source, a radio frequency signal (function) generator, at least one transducer in contact with a tube or channel.
• the standing wave is created from the combination or superimposing of multiple out of phase acoustic pressure waves from multiple transducers.
• the standing wave is created from the combination of superimposing out of phase acoustic pressure waves from a transducer and a reflector.
• the transducer creates a wave which travels across diameter of the tube or channel without reflection.
• At least one minima pressure node may be created at the central axis of the tube, off center of the central axis of the tube, or along the walls of the tube. In some embodiments, there is a single minima pressure node, while in other embodiments there are multiple minima pressure nodes.
• the wavelength of the standing wave in relation to the diameter of the tube or channel will dictate the location and number of the minima pressure node(s). In one non-limiting example, the diameter of the tube or channel is one half the wavelength of the standing wave and produces a minima pressure node at the central axis of the tube or channel The number of minima nodes will increase as the wavelength decreases. The higher pressure portions of the standing wave push the
• a traveling or sweeping wave which has minima pressure nodes which mo v e or translate across the liquid medium.
• the pressure of the wave traveling or sweeping across the diameter of the tube pushes the microorganisms against one surface of the tube.
• the direction of the traveling wave may be changed to move the biasing location of the microorganisms to another surface location of the tube.
• the liquid and particles in the aqueous culture medium of a different size and/or acoustic impedance than the microorganisms targeted by the acoustic energy will continue to fill the volume of the tube outside of the minima pressure node.
• at least one collector or collection inlet can be located in line with the biased location (e.g. center of tube, along one surface of the tube) to receive the microorganisms and separate the microorganisms from the aqueous medium.
• the collector may comprise a separate inlet located within the tube, or the tube may split into multiple flo paths with at least one of the branches comprising the collector.
• the wave characteristics may be manipulated or tuned through the electrical signal power source, the radio frequency (function) generator, a power amplifier, and/or the transducers.
• the acoustic waves will affect particles differently based on their size and/or acoustic impedance. Acoustic impedance is determined by the particle shape, size, cell wall composition, physiological state, and compressibility.
• Examples of particles in the aqueous medium that have different sizes and/or acoustic impedances include, but are not limited to: mature microalgae in oil phase; younger rnicroalgae in growth phase; different species of microalgae; extraneous particulate matter; contaminants, predators, and competitors of microalgae such as grazers, rotifers, fungi, bacteria, viruses, cells or parts of living organisms, non-living cell debris, and suspended organic matter.
• particles of different size and/or acoustic impedance may be targeted and biased to a location in a tube.
• the system may be used for positive or negative selection with either the target particles or the non-target particles being removed selectively. While the specification is described as removing the desired aggregated particles from the liquid, it may equally be applied to remo ving undesired particles/contaminants. As such the liquid may be returned for additional cell growth or further processed to dewater the desired microorganisms or other particles.
• the tube may comprise any material with a natural resonance frequency suitable to create standing waves with minima pressure nodes or transmit a traveling wave such as, but not limited to, glass, plastic, metals, crystalline solids, and quartz.
• the entire length of the tube is excited by the transducer in contact with the tube as the acoustic signal produced by the transducer is converted into acoustic radiation pressure.
• the thickness of the tube may affect the natural resonance frequency of the tube.
• the flow through the tube may be essentially laminar, and the flow rate may be controlled by pumping, gravity, valves, or the flow path geometry.
• the tube may have a circular, oval or elipitical, rectangular, or polygonal cross-section.
• the at least one transducer is coupled to the tube, and receives a radio frequency signal for conversion into an acoustic energy signal.
• the at least one transducer may comprise any suitable material for producing an acoustic energ signal from a radio frequency signal such as, but not limited to, piezoceramic, peizosait, peizopolymer, piezocrystal,
• multiple transducers may be used to tune the frequency and provide electronic feedback, such as a pair of transducers on opposing sides of the tube or channel,
• a reflector or reflection membrane may be used with a single transducer to create a standing wave within a tube or channel.
• the reflector may comprise any material suitable for reflecting acoustic waves such as, but not limited to, mylar, glass mica, and polymers.
• the radio frequency signal generator may comprise a function generator.
• the radio frequency signal produced by the generator is amplified by a power amplifier before transmission to the at least one transducers.
• the frequencies may range from 10 kHz to 100 MHz, The frequency selected may be dictated by the desired function of the acoustic waves. Low frequencies may be used for the effect of inhibiting cyanobacteria growth in the aqueous medium. Ultrasonic frequencies may also be used for the effect of iysing or disrupting microalgae cells through cavitation induced by acoustic energy. In some embodiments, the frequency will be tuned to aggregate microorganisms at the minima pressure nodes without inhibiting growth or lysing/disrupting the cells through cavitation.
• the power may range from 0.05 W to 1 W for the aggregation of microorganisms at the minima pressure nodes without inhibiting growth or lysing/disrupting the cells. In other embodiments, a higher power value may be used to inhibit growth or lyse/disrupt the microorganisms.
• the power source may provide constant electrical power (such as direct current), oscillating electrical power (such as alternating current), or a pulsed electrical current. including micro-pulses, pico-puises, and nano-pulses as previous described above.
• the transducer receives pulses of electricity at a frequency higher than the standing wave, resulting in the rapid starting and stopping of the acoustic energy in a high frequency pulse. After traveling a distance through the medium, the high frequency pulse evolves into a demodulated pulse which can excite the desired mode of the standing acoustic wave.
• multiple transducers and collectors may be used in a series configuration along a length of the tube. In further embodiments, the multiple transducers and collectors concentrate the same target particles for collection at multiple points. In other embodiments, the multiple transducers and collectors concentrate different target particles for collection at multiple points. In some embodiments, multiple collectors may be placed at different locations and the standing waves may be adjusted to move the minima pressure nodes to the different locations of the collectors, effectively activating and inactivating the collectors selectively. In some embodiments, a standing wave may be used to concentrate the target particles at a minima pressure node first, and then moved towards a collector using a travelling or sweeping wave second.
• a plurality of tubes which apply acoustic energy to the aqueous medium may be connected in a series or parallel arrangement as described above with the plurality of anode and cathode circuits.
• the system may be used for positive or negative selection with either the target particles or the non-target particles being removed selectively.
• the application of electrical energy, as described above, and acoustic energy can be used in combination in a single system.
• the system may switch back and forth between the application of electrical energy and acoustic energy to the aqueous suspension.
• acoustic energy is applied to the aqueous medium comprising microorganisms first to concentrate a target microorganism at a minima pressure node.
• the target microorganism is then separated from the aqueous medium by a collector.
• the separated target microorganisms are subjected to an electrical field to affect the surface charge of the microorganisms to further aggregate the microorganisms into a more cohesive aggregate mass.
• the aqueous medium not separated by the collector may be diverted for additional use (such as growth medium for a new culture of microorganisms) or recycled through the system for further application of acoustic energy targeting the same microorganism or a different particle.
• Embodiments using electrical and acoustic energy in combination may provide for the first separation and aggregation of microorganisms of a first characteristic in the aqueous culture medium, such as oil phase microalgae, a fsrst species of microalgae, or a first contaminant/predator/competitor; and then the subsequent separations and aggregations of microorganisms of a different characteristic, such as growth phase microalgae, a second species of microalgae, or a second
• Embodiments using electrical and acoustic energy in combination provide an efficient method for: selectively separating and aggregating microalgae in different phases within the same culture; selectively separating and aggregating different microalgae species which were co-cultured; selectively cleaning a culture through separating and aggregating various microorganisms, contaminants, predators, and competitors; and selectively cleaning a culture before aggregating the microorganisms.
• Acoustic energy can also be used to bias the algae to a certain location and then tunable electrodes may be used to apply an electrical field to the algae location in the most energy efficient manner,
• electrical energy is applied to the aqueous suspension comprising microorganisms first to aggregate the microorganisms into larger aggregate masses, as illustrated in FIG. 20B.
• acoustic energy is applied to concentrate the aggregate microorganism masses at the minima pressure nodes and separating the larger aggregate masses from the aqueous medium through a collector.
• the aqueous medium not separated by the collector can be recycled through the system for further application of electrical energy for aggregation.
• This embodiment provides an efficient method for creating stronger bonds between the microorganisms concentrated at the minima pressure nodes by the acoustic energy.
• a tube with a rectangular shaped cross-section and a pair of plate electrodes with spacers may be joined to form a continuous tube with a rectangular shaped cross-section.
• a tube with a circular cross-section and a pair of semi-circular shaped electrodes with spacers may be joined to form a continuous tube with a circular shaped cross-section.
• the continuous tube may form a single tubular structure with a uniform cross-section for applying both acoustic energy and electrical energy in line in an alternating fashion.
• an elastomeric spacer joins the acoustic and electric application sections to reduce vibration in the electrical application section and insulate the acoustic application section from an electrical charge.
• a tube 2100 forms the channel for flowing an aqueous suspension comprising microorganisms.
• the tube 2100 may comprise any suitable material that can be excited by transducers 2103, 2104 to produce a standing wave of acoustic pressure within the interior of the tube.
• Housed within the tube is an anode 2101 and a cathode 2102 facing each other and running longitudinally through the tube.
• the anode 2.101 and cathode 2102 are spaced to allow a gap between the electrodes in which the minima pressure node 21 10 of the acoustic pressure wave is located and the aqueous medium flows through.
• the transducers 2103, 2104 may create a standing wave within the tube 2100 concurrently with the anode 2101 and cathode 2102 pair producing an electric field within the tube as the aqueous culture suspension comprising microorganisms flows through the tube.
• the standing wave forms anti-nodes of acoustic pressure wave 2105, 2106.
• the channel for flowing an aqueous solution comprising microorganisms is defined by a spaced anode 2201 and cathode 2202 pair and insulators 2203 as described above in the rectangular channel embodiment above.
• Transducers 2204 may be coupled to the anode 2201 and cathode 2202 to produce a standing wave of acoustic pressure within the channel by vibrating the anode 2201 and caihode 22.02, and form a minima pressure node between the anode 2201 and cathode 2202 concurrently with the anode 2201 and cathode 2202 pair producing an electrical field within the channel as tube as the aqueous culture suspension comprising microorganisms flows through the channel.
• a piezoelectric vibration harvester may be coupled to the tube.
• the piezoelectric vibration harvester captures some of the mechanical vibration energy used to produce the standing wave and converts the vibration energy into electrical current.
• the electrical current may be alternating current (AC) or may be converted from AC into direct current (DC).
• the electrical current may form a power source that can be transmitted wirelessly to sensors, such as flow rate, density, or turbidity sensors on the same aggregating apparatus.
• the piezoelectric vibration harvesters may be designed or
• Advantages of using a system with acoustic and electrical energy include: the avoidance of fouling issues common with filters, reduction in the application of shear forces to microorganisms which are common with mechanical systems such as centrifuges, reduction in moving or wear parts that lead to mechanical failure due to friction, and the capability of continuous operation.
• the application of acoustic and or electric energy also residts in biasing, concentration, and/or aggregation of microalgae in a short time period, such as minutes or seconds.

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