Abstract

Methods use a catalytic composition built up from a ceramic material including a catalytic material and a first inorganic binder and a second inorganic binder and a catalytic structure made thereof. Preferably, the structure is made by a colloidal ceramic shaping technique. The structure is used for catalytic or ion exchange applications. The catalytic structures have excellent mechanical, physicochemical and catalytic properties.

IPC Classes  ?

• C07C 1/20 - Preparation of hydrocarbons from one or more compounds, none of them being a hydrocarbon starting from organic compounds containing only oxygen atoms as hetero atoms
• B01J 29/40 - Crystalline aluminosilicate zeolitesIsomorphous compounds thereof of the pentasil type, e.g. types ZSM-5, ZSM-8 or ZSM-11
• B01J 29/08 - Crystalline aluminosilicate zeolitesIsomorphous compounds thereof of the faujasite type, e.g. type X or Y
• B01J 29/70 - Crystalline aluminosilicate zeolitesIsomorphous compounds thereof of types characterised by their specific structure not provided for in groups
• B01J 37/00 - Processes, in general, for preparing catalystsProcesses, in general, for activation of catalysts
• B28B 1/00 - Producing shaped articles from the material
• B28B 3/20 - Producing shaped articles from the material by using pressesPresses specially adapted therefor wherein the material is extruded
• B01J 29/18 - Crystalline aluminosilicate zeolitesIsomorphous compounds thereof of the mordenite type
• C10G 3/00 - Production of liquid hydrocarbon mixtures from oxygen-containing organic materials, e.g. fatty oils, fatty acids
• B01J 2/08 - Gelation of a colloidal solution
• B01J 27/14 - PhosphorusCompounds thereof
• C04B 35/622 - Forming processesProcessing powders of inorganic compounds preparatory to the manufacturing of ceramic products
• B01J 2/20 - Processes or devices for granulating materials, in generalRendering particulate materials free flowing in general, e.g. making them hydrophobic by expressing the material, e.g. through sieves and fragmenting the extruded length
• B01J 37/03 - PrecipitationCo-precipitation
• C04B 38/00 - Porous mortars, concrete, artificial stone or ceramic warePreparation thereof
• C07C 11/02 - Alkenes
• B01J 35/04 - Foraminous structures, sieves, grids, honeycombs
• B01J 35/06 - Fabrics or filaments
• B01J 35/08 - Spheres
• C04B 35/01 - Shaped ceramic products characterised by their compositionCeramic compositionsProcessing powders of inorganic compounds preparatory to the manufacturing of ceramic products based on oxides
• C04B 111/00 - Function, property or use of the mortars, concrete or artificial stone

Abstract

A system is for producing products, advantageously solvents, by fermentation, advantageously multi-stage fermentation. The fermentation is complemented with pervaporation as in situ product recovery technology, combined with a multistage condensation of the permeate. The condensates are separately introduced in the downstream processing of the system to recover the produced products, advantageously solvents. The system for producing products, advantageously solvents, by fermentation is simplified and has an overall improved energy efficiency, compared to systems described in the art.

IPC Classes  ?

• C12M 1/00 - Apparatus for enzymology or microbiology
• C12P 7/06 - Ethanol, i.e. non-beverage
• C12P 7/16 - Butanols
• C12P 7/28 - Acetone-containing products
• B01D 61/36 - PervaporationMembrane distillationLiquid permeation
• C12M 1/34 - Measuring or testing with condition measuring or sensing means, e.g. colony counters

Abstract

A method for producing products, advantageously solvents, is by fermentation, advantageously multi-stage fermentation. The fermentation is complemented with pervaporation as in situ product recovery technology, combined with a multistage condensation of the permeate. The condensates are separately introduced in the downstream processing to recover the produced products, advantageously solvents. The method for producing products, advantageously solvents, by fermentation is simplified and has an overall improved energy efficiency. A related system uses method for producing products, advantageously solvents, is by fermentation.

IPC Classes  ?

• C12P 7/06 - Ethanol, i.e. non-beverage
• C12P 7/16 - Butanols
• C12P 7/28 - Acetone-containing products
• B01D 61/36 - PervaporationMembrane distillationLiquid permeation
• B01D 5/00 - Condensation of vapoursRecovering volatile solvents by condensation
• C12N 1/20 - BacteriaCulture media therefor
• C12M 1/00 - Apparatus for enzymology or microbiology
• C12M 1/34 - Measuring or testing with condition measuring or sensing means, e.g. colony counters
• C10L 1/02 - Liquid carbonaceous fuels essentially based on components consisting of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen only

Abstract

An assembly includes a housing with opposite first and second layers. The first and second layers are spaced apart to define a confined interior space. A semi-permeable membrane is attached to the first layer, the semi-permeable membrane covering a porous area portion of the first layer. An outlet port and an inlet port are in fluid communication with the interior space. The assembly includes a first circulator for circulating a first fluid between the outlet port and the inlet port, and a second circulator for circulating a second fluid along an exterior surface of the semi-permeable membrane. The second circulator includes a fluid duct attached to or integrated within the housing. The fluid duct is isolated from the interior space and is porous to provide fluid access to an exterior surface of the semi-permeable membrane. The semi-permeable membrane forms a barrier allowing exchange of compounds across the membrane.

IPC Classes  ?

• C12M 3/00 - Tissue, human, animal or plant cell, or virus culture apparatus
• B01D 61/00 - Processes of separation using semi-permeable membranes, e.g. dialysis, osmosis or ultrafiltrationApparatus, accessories or auxiliary operations specially adapted therefor
• C12M 1/00 - Apparatus for enzymology or microbiology
• B01D 61/18 - Apparatus therefor
• B01D 63/08 - Flat membrane modules
• B01D 65/08 - Prevention of membrane fouling or of concentration polarisation
• C12M 1/12 - Apparatus for enzymology or microbiology with sterilisation, filtration, or dialysis means
• C12P 1/02 - Preparation of compounds or compositions, not provided for in groups , by using microorganisms or enzymesGeneral processes for the preparation of compounds or compositions by using microorganisms or enzymes by using fungi
• C12P 1/04 - Preparation of compounds or compositions, not provided for in groups , by using microorganisms or enzymesGeneral processes for the preparation of compounds or compositions by using microorganisms or enzymes by using bacteria

Abstract

A planar membrane cartridge includes a support and a semi-permeable membrane layer. The support includes a first layer attached to a second layer and defining a front face and a back face of the support. At least one of the first layer and the second layer form a first embossment and a second embossment. Respective back faces of the first layer and the second layer are attached to each other along edges of the first embossment and of the second embossment, such that the first embossment defines a fluid compartment between the first layer and the second layer and the second embossment defines an internal channel between the first layer and the second layer which is isolated from the fluid compartment. An area of the first layer corresponding to the first embossment is covered by the semi-permeable membrane layer.

IPC Classes  ?

• B01D 63/08 - Flat membrane modules

Abstract

A catalytic composition is built up from a ceramic material including a catalytic material and a first inorganic binder and a second inorganic binder and a catalytic structure made thereof. Preferably, the structure is made by a colloidal ceramic shaping technique. The structure is usable for catalytic or ion exchange applications as well. It is demonstrated that the catalytic structures have excellent mechanical, physicochemical and catalytic properties.

IPC Classes  ?

• B01J 29/00 - Catalysts comprising molecular sieves
• B01J 29/40 - Crystalline aluminosilicate zeolitesIsomorphous compounds thereof of the pentasil type, e.g. types ZSM-5, ZSM-8 or ZSM-11
• B01J 29/08 - Crystalline aluminosilicate zeolitesIsomorphous compounds thereof of the faujasite type, e.g. type X or Y
• B01J 29/70 - Crystalline aluminosilicate zeolitesIsomorphous compounds thereof of types characterised by their specific structure not provided for in groups
• B01J 37/00 - Processes, in general, for preparing catalystsProcesses, in general, for activation of catalysts
• B28B 1/00 - Producing shaped articles from the material
• C07C 1/20 - Preparation of hydrocarbons from one or more compounds, none of them being a hydrocarbon starting from organic compounds containing only oxygen atoms as hetero atoms
• B28B 3/20 - Producing shaped articles from the material by using pressesPresses specially adapted therefor wherein the material is extruded
• B01J 29/18 - Crystalline aluminosilicate zeolitesIsomorphous compounds thereof of the mordenite type
• C10G 3/00 - Production of liquid hydrocarbon mixtures from oxygen-containing organic materials, e.g. fatty oils, fatty acids
• B01J 2/08 - Gelation of a colloidal solution
• B01J 27/14 - PhosphorusCompounds thereof
• C04B 35/622 - Forming processesProcessing powders of inorganic compounds preparatory to the manufacturing of ceramic products
• B01J 2/20 - Processes or devices for granulating materials, in generalRendering particulate materials free flowing in general, e.g. making them hydrophobic by expressing the material, e.g. through sieves and fragmenting the extruded length
• B01J 37/03 - PrecipitationCo-precipitation
• C04B 38/00 - Porous mortars, concrete, artificial stone or ceramic warePreparation thereof
• C07C 11/02 - Alkenes
• B01J 35/04 - Foraminous structures, sieves, grids, honeycombs
• B01J 35/06 - Fabrics or filaments
• B01J 35/08 - Spheres
• C04B 35/01 - Shaped ceramic products characterised by their compositionCeramic compositionsProcessing powders of inorganic compounds preparatory to the manufacturing of ceramic products based on oxides
• C04B 111/00 - Function, property or use of the mortars, concrete or artificial stone

Abstract

Method of preparing a porous membrane, comprising forming a homogeneous solution comprising a polymer, a solvent and at least 0.5% by weight of an additive. The solution is cast to form a cast layer, and the cast layer is exposed to a vapour phase to induce phase separation followed by immersion in a coagulation bath. The additive has an average molecular mass of at least 100000 g/mole, and the solution has a coagulation value between 0.5% and 10% with respect to a mixture of 0% water and 50% of the solvent on weight basis. Obtained membranes comprise a porous isotropic layer extending from a first surface of the membrane through at least 0% of a thickness of the membrane.

IPC Classes  ?

• B01D 67/00 - Processes specially adapted for manufacturing semi-permeable membranes for separation processes or apparatus
• B01D 69/02 - Semi-permeable membranes for separation processes or apparatus characterised by their form, structure or propertiesManufacturing processes specially adapted therefor characterised by their properties
• B01D 71/68 - PolysulfonesPolyethersulfones

Abstract

A method of making a composite compact or briquette comprises mixing a first particulate material with at most 15% by weight of a powder coating material to obtain a mixture, and compacting the mixture into a compact. Either the first particulate material, the powder coating material, or both are advantageously waste materials. The first particulate material has a metal content of at least 50% by weight. The compact can be cured at temperatures between 50°C and 300°C to obtain the composite briquette. The composite briquette comprises a binding phase formed of the cured waste powder coating material, and a dispersed phase formed of the first particulate. The composite briquettes can be used as a secondary ore material.

IPC Classes  ?

• C22B 1/00 - Preliminary treatment of ores or scrap
• C22B 1/244 - BindingBriquetting with binders organic
• C22B 7/00 - Working-up raw materials other than ores, e.g. scrap, to produce non-ferrous metals or compounds thereof

Abstract

Device for simultaneously determining a mass transport of a fluid and a mass transport of a substance dissolved in the fluid, comprising at least two cartridges filled with a porous matrix, and assembly means, configured to keep the cartridges together, characterized in that the top side and the bottom side of each cartridge are non-permeable and the side wall is permeable, and in that the assembly means are configured to keep the cartridges together according to a stack, in which the cartridges may be flowed through in parallel without cross-contamination.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01F 1/708 - Measuring the time taken to traverse a fixed distance
• G01N 1/10 - Devices for withdrawing samples in the liquid or fluent state
• G01F 1/704 - Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow using marked regions or existing inhomogeneities within the fluid stream, e.g. statistically occurring variations in a fluid parameter
• G01N 33/18 - Water
• G01N 1/12 - DippersDredgers
• G01F 1/74 - Devices for measuring flow of a fluid or flow of a fluent solid material in suspension in another fluid

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for producing products, advantageously solvents, by fermentation, advantageously multi-stage fermentation. The fermentation is complemented with pervaporation as in situ product recovery technology, combined with a multistage condensation of the permeate. The condensates are separately introduced in the downstream processing to recover the produced products, advantageously solvents. The method for producing products, advantageously solvents, by fermentation is simplified and has an overall improved energy efficiency, compared to methods described in the art. A related system and the use thereof is provided as well.

IPC Classes  ?

• C12P 7/06 - Ethanol, i.e. non-beverage
• B01D 61/36 - PervaporationMembrane distillationLiquid permeation
• C12M 1/00 - Apparatus for enzymology or microbiology
• C12P 7/16 - Butanols
• C12P 7/28 - Acetone-containing products

Abstract

Planar membrane cartridge (10), comprising a support (12) and a semi-permeable membrane layer (11). The support comprises a first layer (16) attached to a second layer (17) and defining a front face (121) and a back face (122) of the support.At least one of the first layer and the second layer form a first embossment (162) and a second embossment (164).Respective back faces of the first layer and the second layer are attached to each other along edges of the first embossment and of the second embossment, such that the first embossment defines a fluid compartment (120) between the first layer and the second layer and the second embossment defines an internal channel (14) between the first layer and the second layer which is isolated from the fluid compartment (120).An area of the first layer (16)corresponding to the first embossment is covered by the semi-permeable membrane layer (11).

IPC Classes  ?

• B01D 63/08 - Flat membrane modules
• C02F 3/12 - Activated sludge processes
• C02F 3/20 - Activated sludge processes using diffusers

Abstract

Assembly (10) comprising a housing (11) with a first layer (111) and a second layer (112) opposite the first layer. The first layer and the second layer are spaced apart to define a confined interior space (110). A semi-permeable membrane (12) is attached to the first layer, the semi-permeable membrane covering a porous area portion of the first layer. An outlet port (101) and an inlet port (102) are in fluid communication with the interior space. The assembly comprises first means (20) for circulating a first fluid between the outlet port and the inlet port, and second means (13) for circulating a second fluid along an exterior surface of the semi-permeable membrane. The second means comprises a fluid duct (13) attached to or integrated within the housing. The fluid duct is isolated from the interior space and is porous to provide fluid access to an exterior surface of the semi-permeable membrane. The semi-permeable membrane forms a barrier allowing for exchange of compounds across the membrane.

IPC Classes  ?

• C12M 1/12 - Apparatus for enzymology or microbiology with sterilisation, filtration, or dialysis means
• C12M 1/00 - Apparatus for enzymology or microbiology
• B01D 63/08 - Flat membrane modules
• C12M 3/00 - Tissue, human, animal or plant cell, or virus culture apparatus

Abstract

Assembly for treating fluids, comprising a support (12) having a first and second oppositely arranged surfaces (121) for backing support of a semi permeable membrane (11), a first fluid conveying compartments (124) interposed between the first and second surfaces, a plurality of first fluid passages (126) extending from the first surface (121) and being in fluid communication with the first compartments (124), and a first duct attached to the support (12) and in fluid communication with the first compartments. The assembly comprises a second compartment (125) arranged for conveying fluid and different from the first compartment, and a second duct attached to the support (12) and configured to be in fluid communication with the second compartment (125).

IPC Classes  ?

• B01D 63/08 - Flat membrane modules
• C02F 3/06 - Aerobic processes using submerged filters
• B01D 67/00 - Processes specially adapted for manufacturing semi-permeable membranes for separation processes or apparatus
• C02F 3/12 - Activated sludge processes

Abstract

The present invention relates to a catalytic composition built up from a ceramic material comprising a catalytic material and a first and second inorganic binder and a catalytic structure made thereof. Preferably, said structure is made by a colloidal ceramic shaping technique. Use of the structure for catalytic or ion exchange applications is provided as well. It is demonstrated that the catalytic structures of the invention have excellent mechanical, physicochemical and catalytic properties.

IPC Classes  ?

• B01J 37/00 - Processes, in general, for preparing catalystsProcesses, in general, for activation of catalysts
• B01J 29/40 - Crystalline aluminosilicate zeolitesIsomorphous compounds thereof of the pentasil type, e.g. types ZSM-5, ZSM-8 or ZSM-11
• B01J 29/08 - Crystalline aluminosilicate zeolitesIsomorphous compounds thereof of the faujasite type, e.g. type X or Y
• B01J 29/18 - Crystalline aluminosilicate zeolitesIsomorphous compounds thereof of the mordenite type
• B01J 29/70 - Crystalline aluminosilicate zeolitesIsomorphous compounds thereof of types characterised by their specific structure not provided for in groups
• C01B 39/44 - Ferrierite type, e.g. types ZSM-21, ZSM-35 or ZSM-38
• C07C 1/20 - Preparation of hydrocarbons from one or more compounds, none of them being a hydrocarbon starting from organic compounds containing only oxygen atoms as hetero atoms
• C07C 11/02 - Alkenes
• C10G 3/00 - Production of liquid hydrocarbon mixtures from oxygen-containing organic materials, e.g. fatty oils, fatty acids
• C01B 25/00 - PhosphorusCompounds thereof
• B01J 27/14 - PhosphorusCompounds thereof
• B28B 1/00 - Producing shaped articles from the material
• B29C 67/00 - Shaping techniques not covered by groups , or
• B01J 2/08 - Gelation of a colloidal solution

Abstract

Device (10) for simultaneously determining a mass transport of a fluid and a mass transport of a substance dissolved in the fluid, comprising at least two cartridges (11-14) filled with a porous matrix, and assembly means (15), configured to keep the cartridges together, characterized in that the top side (111) and the bottom side (112) of each cartridge are non-permeable and the side wall (113) is permeable, and in that the assembly means are configured to keep the cartridges together according to a stack, in which the cartridges may be flowed through in parallel without cross- contamination.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01F 1/704 - Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow using marked regions or existing inhomogeneities within the fluid stream, e.g. statistically occurring variations in a fluid parameter
• G01F 1/708 - Measuring the time taken to traverse a fixed distance
• G01N 1/10 - Devices for withdrawing samples in the liquid or fluent state
• G01N 33/18 - Water

Abstract

A method of enhancing hydrophilicity of a hydrophobic polymer material includes pre-treating the hydrophobic polymer material. The pre-treating includes treating the hydrophobic polymer material with a first atmospheric pressure plasma discharge in a first atmosphere including carbon dioxide to obtain a pre-treated polymer material. The method includes treating the pre-treated polymer material with a second atmospheric pressure plasma discharge in a second atmosphere in which an aerosol of an amine is introduced; the amine includes at least one hydrocarbon substituent. A substrate is provided that includes a hydrophobic polymer material having a modified interface. The modified interface includes amine functional groups grafted on the hydrophobic polymer material, the modified interface having a surface energy, which, measured after immersion in water at 20° C. for 3 days, differs from a surface energy of the hydrophobic polymer material by 20 mN/m or less.

IPC Classes  ?

• B01D 65/08 - Prevention of membrane fouling or of concentration polarisation
• B01D 71/34 - Polyvinylidene fluoride
• C08F 259/08 - Macromolecular compounds obtained by polymerising monomers on to polymers of halogen containing monomers as defined in group on to polymers containing fluorine
• C08F 261/06 - Macromolecular compounds obtained by polymerising monomers on to polymers of oxygen-containing monomers as defined in group on to polymers of unsaturated ethers
• C08J 7/18 - Chemical modification with polymerisable compounds using wave energy or particle radiation
• B05D 3/14 - Pretreatment of surfaces to which liquids or other fluent materials are to be appliedAfter-treatment of applied coatings, e.g. intermediate treating of an applied coating preparatory to subsequent applications of liquids or other fluent materials by electrical means
• B29C 59/14 - Surface shaping, e.g. embossingApparatus therefor by plasma treatment
• C08J 7/12 - Chemical modification
• B01D 67/00 - Processes specially adapted for manufacturing semi-permeable membranes for separation processes or apparatus
• B01D 71/68 - PolysulfonesPolyethersulfones
• B01D 71/36 - Polytetrafluoroethene

Abstract

A method of enhancing hydrophilicity of a hydrophobic polymer material includes pre-treating the hydrophobic polymer material, comprising treating the hydrophobic polymer material with a first atmospheric pressure plasma discharge in a first atmosphere. The first atmosphere includes ammonia to obtain a pre-treated polymer material. The method includes treating the pre-treated polymer material with a second atmospheric pressure plasma discharge in a second atmosphere in which an aerosol of a carboxylic acid is introduced. A substrate is provided as well, the substrate including a hydrophobic polymer material having a modified interface, wherein the modified interface includes carboxylic functional groups grafted on the hydrophobic polymer material, the modified interface having a contact angle with water, which, measured after immersion in water at 20° C. for 3 days, is at least 25° less than a contact angle with water of the hydrophobic polymer material.

IPC Classes  ?

• B01D 71/32 - Polyalkenyl halides containing fluorine atoms
• B01D 71/34 - Polyvinylidene fluoride
• B01D 71/78 - Graft polymers
• B01D 71/82 - Macromolecular material not specifically provided for in a single one of groups characterised by the presence of specified groups, e.g. introduced by chemical after-treatment
• B05D 3/14 - Pretreatment of surfaces to which liquids or other fluent materials are to be appliedAfter-treatment of applied coatings, e.g. intermediate treating of an applied coating preparatory to subsequent applications of liquids or other fluent materials by electrical means
• B29C 59/14 - Surface shaping, e.g. embossingApparatus therefor by plasma treatment
• C08J 7/12 - Chemical modification
• C08J 7/14 - Chemical modification with acids, their salts or anhydrides
• C08J 7/18 - Chemical modification with polymerisable compounds using wave energy or particle radiation
• B01D 67/00 - Processes specially adapted for manufacturing semi-permeable membranes for separation processes or apparatus
• C08F 259/08 - Macromolecular compounds obtained by polymerising monomers on to polymers of halogen containing monomers as defined in group on to polymers containing fluorine
• C08F 283/00 - Macromolecular compounds obtained by polymerising monomers on to polymers provided for in subclass
• B01D 65/08 - Prevention of membrane fouling or of concentration polarisation
• B01D 71/68 - PolysulfonesPolyethersulfones
• B01D 71/36 - Polytetrafluoroethene

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for purifying water comprising the steps of: - providing a feed solution stream (10) comprising water, having a first osmotic pressure and a temperature T1 on a feed side (4) of a semipermeable membrane (3); - providing a draw solution stream (11) comprising a draw solute, having a second osmotic pressure and a temperature T2 on a draw side (5) of the semipermeable membrane (3), the second osmotic pressure being higher than the first osmotic pressure; - passing water through the semipermeable membrane (3) to the draw side (5) so as to mix the water with the draw solution stream (11) to produce a diluted draw solution stream (12) having a temperature T3; characterized in that - the temperature T2 of the draw solution stream (11) is higher than the temperature T1 of the feed solution stream (10), such that the temperature T3 of the diluted draw solution stream (12) is lower than temperature T2; - at least one solar panel (13) is provided, said solar panel (13) comprising a heat exchange tubing system (14) being in communication with the draw side (5) and said solar panel (13) having a temperature T4 being higher than the temperature T3; - the diluted draw solution stream (12) is passed into the heat exchange tubing system (14) such that the solar panel (13) is cooled down to a temperature T5 and the diluted draw solution stream (12) is heated, thereby forming a heated draw solution stream (22) having a temperature Τ6; - the heated draw solution stream (22) is passed into a separation unit (17) such that said stream (22) is separated into a stream of purified water (24) and a stream of recovered draw solution (23); - the stream of recovered draw solution (23) is passed to the draw side (5) of the semipermeable membrane (3) to be recycled. A system for purifying water, and use thereof, is provided as well.

IPC Classes  ?

• C02F 1/44 - Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by dialysis, osmosis or reverse osmosis

Abstract

Assembly for treating fluids, comprising a support (12) having a first and second oppositely arranged surfaces (121) for backing support of a semi permeable membrane (11), a first fluid conveying compartments (124) interposed between the first and second surfaces, a plurality of first fluid passages (126) extending from the first surface (121) and being in fluid communication with the first compartments (124), and a first duct attached to the support (12) and in fluid communication with the first compartments. The assembly comprises a second compartment (125) arranged for conveying fluid and different from the first compartment, and a second duct attached to the support (12) and configured to be in fluid communication with the second compartment (125). The second compartment is located according to (i) interposed between the first and second surfaces, or (ii) attached or attachable to a first edge (127) of the support such that a median plane of the second compartment is coincident with a median plane of the support. The second duct is fluid tightly sealed from the first compartment, and the first duct is fluid tightly sealed from the second compartment.

IPC Classes  ?

• B01D 63/08 - Flat membrane modules

Abstract

A smart grid management system and method where aggregators do not need to have knowledge about the topology of the electricity grid, the physical location of the end-points they control, or the congestion level of the grid. Instead, the smart grid system and method provides maximum freedom of operation to the aggregators to balance electricity supply and demand in such a way that the danger is reduced or it is even impossible for the aggregators to endanger voltage levels at the distribution system operator (DSO) level or the capacity levels at the transmission system operator (TSO) level. The distribution system operator is allowed to block, interrupt, or change the communication between aggregator and device based on a dual stage-gate control.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02J 1/00 - Circuit arrangements for dc mains or dc distribution networks
• H02J 3/14 - Circuit arrangements for ac mains or ac distribution networks for adjusting voltage in ac networks by changing a characteristic of the network load by switching loads on to, or off from, network, e.g. progressively balanced loading
• H02J 3/46 - Controlling the sharing of output between the generators, converters, or transformers

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for disrupting suspended biomass material comprising the steps of: providing a suspension of biomass material in a first vessel (1), said suspension having a dry cell weight being comprised between 0.1 % and 15% (w/w); pressurizing said suspension to a first pressure (p1) being comprised between 7500 kPa and 450000 kPa by using a first high-pressure pump (10); providing a pressurized gas disruption agent and/or a pressurized liquid disruption agent in a second vessel (2); pressurizing said gas and/or liquid disruption agent to a second pressure (p2) being comprised between 7500 kPa and 450000 kPa by using a second high- pressure pump (20), said second pressure (p2) being higher than said first pressure (p1); injecting a stream of said pressurized disruption agent into a stream of said pressurized suspension of biomass material and forming a micro-emulsion; passing said micro-emulsion sequentially through a hydrodynamic agitation system (11) and a relief valve (13). An apparatus (and stack of (parallel) systems) for disrupting suspended biomass material is provided as well.

IPC Classes  ?

• C12M 1/04 - Apparatus for enzymology or microbiology with gas introduction means
• C12M 1/06 - Apparatus for enzymology or microbiology with gas introduction means with agitator, e.g. impeller
• C12M 1/26 - Inoculator or sampler
• C12N 1/06 - Lysis of microorganisms

Abstract

Membrane (10) for selective transport of one or more compounds, comprising a polymeric membrane layer (12, 13) and a support (11), wherein the membrane layer and the support share an interface. The polymeric membrane layer (12, 13) is operable for selectively transporting the one or more compounds through the membrane layer and comprises a first polymer compound. The support consists of a perforated film (11) having a thickness smaller than 200 µm and comprises a second polymer compound. The membrane layer (12, 13) is obtained by application of a solution of the first polymer compound onto the support (11) and forming the membrane layer through phase separation of the first polymer compound from the solution. The first and second polymer compounds are such that the membrane layer is solvent bonded to the support through molecular interaction between the first and second polymer compounds at the interface when the membrane layer is formed.

IPC Classes  ?

• B01D 65/00 - Accessories or auxiliary operations, in general, for separation processes or apparatus using semi-permeable membranes
• B01D 69/10 - Supported membranesMembrane supports

Abstract

Membrane element (10, 50) for selective transport of one or more compounds, comprising a polymeric membrane layer (12, 13) and a support (11). The polymeric membrane layer (12, 3) is operable for selectively transporting the one or more compounds through the membrane layer and comprises a first polymer compound. The support (11) has a thickness of at least 200 µm and comprises a support layer (111, 112) enabling the one or more compounds to permeate through the support layer, wherein the support layer comprises a second polymer compound. The membrane layer (12, 13) is obtained by application of a solution of the first polymer compound on the support layer (111, 112) and forming the membrane layer through phase separation of the first polymer compound from the solution, wherein the membrane layer and the support layer share an interface. The first and second polymer compounds are such that the membrane layer is solvent bonded to the support layer through molecular interaction between the first and second polymer compounds at the interface when the membrane layer is formed.

IPC Classes  ?

• B01D 65/00 - Accessories or auxiliary operations, in general, for separation processes or apparatus using semi-permeable membranes
• B01D 69/10 - Supported membranesMembrane supports

Abstract

The present invention relates to a diffusion dialysis apparatus (15) comprising a plurality of anion exchange membranes (1,2) arranged so as to form a stack of successive cell units (16), each cell unit comprising a dialysate compartment (4) for passing a dialysate solution (7) and for collecting acid compounds recovered from a feed, a feed compartment (5) for passing a stream of the feed (6) comprising acid waste with a concentration gradient of the acid between the feed and dialysate solution, and two anion exchange membranes stacked so as to be interleaved with the dialysate compartment and the feed compartment; characterised in that the apparatus comprises an anode (12) and a cathode (13), wherein the cell units are placed between the anode and the cathode,and in that successive anion exchange membranes in the stack of successive cell units are alternately a higher proton transport anion exchange membrane (1) and a lower proton transport anion exchange membrane (2), wherein the higher proton transport AEM (1) has a first H+ transport number and the lower proton transport AEM (2) has a second H+ transport number, the second H+ transport number being smaller than the first H+ transport number, such that, in use, acid compounds from the stream of feed (6) are recovered in the dialysate compartment (4) by diffusion dialysis and electrical energy is generated from the directional migration by diffusion dialysis of protons and anions. Use of a diffusion dialysis apparatus according to the invention and a method for recovering acid (or base) compounds from a feed and generating electrical energy is provided as well.

IPC Classes  ?

• B01D 61/50 - Stacks of the plate-and-frame type
• B01D 61/44 - Ion-selective electrodialysis
• H01M 2/14 - Separators; Membranes; Diaphragms; Spacing elements
• H01M 8/22 - Fuel cells in which the fuel is based on materials comprising carbon or oxygen or hydrogen and other elementsFuel cells in which the fuel is based on materials comprising only elements other than carbon, oxygen or hydrogen

Abstract

A planar filtration element includes a planar support structure (11) and at least one filtration layer (12, 13) made of a membrane material. The planar support structure has first and second opposite outer surfaces (111, 112) spaced apart and secured by spacing members (113) to define a drainage compartment (114) between the first and second outer surfaces. At least one of the first and second outer surfaces includes through-openings (115) for fluid connection with the drainage compartment (114), and wherein the outer surfaces (111, 112), when one disregards the through-openings, are formed of a material extending continuously throughout the outer surfaces. The filtration layer (12, 13) coats the outer surface such that the membrane material penetrates the through-openings (115) to anchor the filtration layer (12, 13) to the support structure (11).

IPC Classes  ?

• B01D 69/06 - Flat membranes
• B01D 69/10 - Supported membranesMembrane supports
• B01D 67/00 - Processes specially adapted for manufacturing semi-permeable membranes for separation processes or apparatus
• B01D 69/12 - Composite membranesUltra-thin membranes
• B01D 63/08 - Flat membrane modules
• B01D 65/02 - Membrane cleaning or sterilisation

Abstract

Apparatus (10) for recovering compounds from a feed by electrodialysis, comprising an anode (1), a cathode (2) and a plurality of ion exchange membranes (3, 4) arranged between the anode and the cathode so as to form a stack of successive electrodialysis cells (17). Each cell comprises a feed compartment (5), a concentrate compartment (6) and at least two ion exchange membranes (3, 4), being a cation exchange membrane (3) and an anion exchange membrane (4), or a bipolar membrane (9) and either one of a cation exchange membrane (3) and an anion exchange membrane (4). The feed compartment (5) and the concentrate compartment (6) of each cell are separated by one of the at least two ion exchange membranes. According to the invention, at least one porous filtration membrane (11, 12) is stacked in the feed compartment (5) of each cell to form a barrier between the feed stream and one of the ion exchange membranes.In use, a pressure difference across the at least one porous filtration membrane is 0.5 bar or less, such that the porous filtration membrane acts solely as a physical barrier without there being a pressure driven filtration through the porous filtration membrane.A method for recovering compounds from a feed by electrodialysis is provided as well.

IPC Classes  ?

• B01D 61/44 - Ion-selective electrodialysis
• B01D 61/50 - Stacks of the plate-and-frame type
• B01D 61/52 - AccessoriesAuxiliary operation
• B01D 61/58 - Multistep processes
• C12M 1/00 - Apparatus for enzymology or microbiology
• C12P 7/56 - Lactic acid
• B01D 61/14 - UltrafiltrationMicrofiltration

Abstract

The purpose of the present invention is to achieve a smart grid management system and method where aggregators (21) do not need to have knowledge about the topology of the electricity grid (50, 60), the physical location of the end-points they control, or the congestion level of the grid. Instead, the smart grid system and method of the present invention provides maximum freedom of operation to the aggregators (21) to balance electricity supply and demand in such a way that the danger is reduced or it is even impossible for the aggregators (21) to endanger voltage levels at the distribution system operator (DSO) level or the capacity levels at the transmission system operator (TSO) level. It is advantageous that the distribution system operator (11) is allowed to block, interrupt, or change the communication between aggregator (21) and device (40) based on a dual stage-gate control.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02J 3/14 - Circuit arrangements for ac mains or ac distribution networks for adjusting voltage in ac networks by changing a characteristic of the network load by switching loads on to, or off from, network, e.g. progressively balanced loading

Abstract

Planar filtration element, comprising a planar support structure (11) and at least one filtration layer (12, 13) made of a membrane material, wherein the planar support structure has first and second opposite outer surfaces (111, 112) spaced apart and secured by spacing members (113) to define a drainage compartment (114) between said first and second outer surfaces,wherein at least one of said first and second outer surfaces comprises through-openings (115) for fluid connection with the drainage compartment (114), and wherein the outer surfaces (111, 112), when one disregards the through-openings, are formed of a material extending continuously throughout the outer surfaces, characterised in that the filtration layer (12, 13) coats the outer surface such that the membrane material penetrates the through-openings (115) so as to anchor the filtration layer (12, 13) to the support structure (11).

IPC Classes  ?

• B01D 63/08 - Flat membrane modules
• B01D 69/06 - Flat membranes
• B01D 69/10 - Supported membranesMembrane supports

Abstract

System and method for 2D occupancy sensing A 2D occupancy system for determining a position of a user (25) (e.g. a human, an object or an animal) in an environment (20) according to embodiments of the present invention comprises a host device (23) and a plurality of motion detection devices (21). The host device (23) and the plurality of motion detection devices (21) are connected through a network (22). Each motion detection device (21) has a viewing angle and the viewing angle of any motion detection device (21) overlaps with the viewing angle of at least one other motion detection device (21). The host device (23) comprises an input port for receiving motion information from the plurality of motion detection devices (21), and a processing unit for determining the position of the user (25) in the environment (20) from the motion information from particular motion detection devices (21) at a same time-stamp.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 9/00 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints
• G06K 9/62 - Methods or arrangements for recognition using electronic means
• G06T 7/00 - Image analysis
• G06T 7/20 - Analysis of motion

Abstract

A sensing device is described for obtaining geometric referenced multi-spectral image data of a region of interest in relative movement with respect to the sensing device. The sensing device comprises a first two dimensional sensor element (112) and a spectral filter (114). The sensing device (100) is adapted for obtaining subsequent multi-spectral images during said relative motion of the region of interest with respect to the sensing device thus providing spectrally distinct information for different parts of a region of interest using different parts of the first sensor. The sensing device (100) also comprises a second two dimensional sensor element (122) and is adapted for providing, using the second sensor element (122), an image of the region of interest for generating geometric referencing information to be coupled to the distinct spectral information. The first sensor element (112) and second sensor element (122) of the sensing device are integrated on the same substrate.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01C 11/02 - Picture-taking arrangements specially adapted for photogrammetry or photographic surveying, e.g. controlling overlapping of pictures

Abstract

A method is described for the analysis of hybridisation between a target in solution and a probe bound at a surface. The method comprises receiving detection intensity results for hybridisation of the target with a plurality of different probes, the probes being selected so that a range of hybridisation detection intensity results for the hybridisation between the target and the probe is covered. The method further comprises analysing the detection intensity results as function of the hybridisation free energy. According to embodiments of the present invention, the receiving and/or analysing takes into consideration a thermodynamic non-equilibrium state for the target-probe bounding state.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06F 19/00 - Digital computing or data processing equipment or methods, specially adapted for specific applications (specially adapted for specific functions G06F 17/00;data processing systems or methods specially adapted for administrative, commercial, financial, managerial, supervisory or forecasting purposes G06Q;healthcare informatics G16H)

Abstract

The present invention relates to a system (13) for charge balancing over a plurality of rechargeable energy storage devices (12) coupled in series, said system (13) comprising a plurality of balancing units (15) each assigned to one of the rechargeable energy storage devices (12), an AC signal generator (14) for providing an AC signal to the plurality of balancing units (15), and a capacitive coupling between the AC signal generator (14) and each of the plurality of balancing units (15) for common mode rejection. A first balancing unit comprises a plurality of switches for transferring, on the one hand, charge from the AC signal generator or from an energy storage device assigned to another balancing unit for charging the energy storage device assigned to the first balancing unit, and, on the other hand, for transferring charge to the AC signal generator or to an energy storage device assigned to another balancing unit for discharging the energy storage device assigned to the first balancing unit.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02J 7/00 - Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries