Abstract:
Apparatus and a method of providing a water-based fluid with active hydrogen having selected characterstics including providing at least one material ( 10 ) having selected characteristics and supply of hydrogen atoms from at least one material ( 10 ) to fluid, whereby the fluid receives hydrogen atoms from the material ( 10 ), which hydrogen atoms have the selected characteristics.

Description:
This is a division, of application Ser. No. 08/617,741, filed Jul. 15, 1996, U.S. Pat. No. 5,951,839; which is a 371 of PCT/US94/10362, filed Sep. 13, 1994; which is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 08/121,264, filed Sep. 13, 1993, now abandoned, and a continuation of Ser. No. 08/441,636 filed May 15, 1995 now U.S. Pat. No. 5,797,216 issued Aug. 25, 1998. Each of these prior applications is hereby incorporated herein by reference, in its entirety. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates to apparatus and methods for controlling the redox potential and the characteristics of hydrogen contained in water and to various uses of such water. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     It is well known that all biological systems live by undergoing oxidation and reduction reactions. 
     It is generally accepted that oxidation and the presence of an excess of hydroxyl free radicals produce degradation in certain biological systems in living organisms. 
     Specifically, scientific literature attributes certain cancers and other diseases such as Parkinsons disease to uncontrolled oxidation. Failure of the body&#39;s protective systems to quench the excess oxidizing free radicals leads to uncontrolled reactions resulting in such diseases. 
     It is known to improve water quality by electrolysis. A home unit for water improvement is manufactured and sold by Ange Systems, Inc. and distributed by Sanyo Trading Co., Ltd. in Tokyo, Japan and provides both acidic and alkaline water supplies. The acidic water is proposed for use as an antiseptic, while the alkaline water is proposed for use as drinking water. 
     There also exist certain contexts in which oxidation of undesired biological entities is desired. One example is the operation of oxidizing drugs, such as silver nitrate, which kill certain microorganisms. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     There is provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention a method of providing a water-based fluid with active hydrogen having selected characteristics comprising the steps of: 
     providing at least one material having selected characteristics; and 
     causing supply of hydrogen atoms from the at least one material to the fluid, whereby the fluid receives hydrogen atoms from the material, which hydrogen atoms have the selected characteristics. 
     There is also provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention a method of providing a water-based fluid with active hydrogen having selected characteristics, comprising the steps of: 
     providing at least one material having selected characteristics; and 
     supplying hydrogen atoms from the at least one material, without the remainder of the material, to the fluid. 
     In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, the fluid is oxidized prior to supply of hydrogen atoms thereto. 
     In accordance with another embodiment of the invention, the fluid is oxidized following supply of hydrogen atoms thereto. 
     Preferably, the at least one material comprises a plurality of materials, which may be selected from metals and elements in electrolyte solutions. 
     The plurality of materials may include drugs, olfactory compounds, or other organic compounds. 
     There is also provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention apparatus for providing a water-based fluid with active hydrogen having selected characteristics comprising: 
     at least one material having selected characteristics; and 
     a hydrogen transfer facility providing supply of hydrogen atoms from the at least one material to the fluid, whereby the fluid receives hydrogen atoms from the material, which hydrogen atoms have the selected characteristics. 
     There is additionally provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention apparatus for providing a water-based fluid with active hydrogen having selected characteristics, comprising: 
     at least one material having selected characteristics; and 
     a hydrogen supply facility supplying hydrogen atoms from the at least one material, without the remainder of the material, to the fluid. 
     Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention there is provided apparatus for providing a water-based fluid with active hydrogen having selected characteristics comprising: 
     a container for at least one material having selected characteristics, the container including an inlet for receiving hydrogen and at least one wall which permits hydrogen diffusion therethrough; and 
     a hydrogen exchanger, communicating with the container and causing exchange of hydrogen atoms between the material and the fluid, whereby the fluid receives hydrogen atoms from the material, which hydrogen atoms have the selected characteristics. 
     There may also be provided apparatus for oxidizing the fluid prior to or following supply thereof to the hydrogen exchanger. 
     There is also provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention apparatus for providing a water-based fluid with active hydrogen having selected characteristics comprising a container including an anode and at least one cathode formed of a material having selected characteristics, the container including an inlet for receiving a water based electrolyte, wherein hydrogen atoms are exchanged between the material and the fluid, whereby the fluid receives hydrogen atoms from the material, which hydrogen atoms have the selected characteristics. 
     Preferably, a plurality of additional cathode assemblies are disposed between the anode and the cathode, each assembly including an anode facing surface formed of a material having selected characteristics and a cathode facing surface formed of carbon. 
     In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus also comprises a ion permeable, generally water non-permeable membrane separating each of the additional cathode assemblies from each other and from the anode and the cathode, thereby defining separate oxidizing and reducing water pathways in the container. 
     The present invention also seeks to provide apparatus and methods for reducing the redox potential of substances and various uses of such substances. 
     It is appreciated that drinking water, especially chlorinated water, has a high concentration of oxidizing OH radicals expressed in high redox potential readings. 
     The present invention seeks to quench the hydroxyl free radicals by atomic hydrogen, to form water. The atomic hydrogen activity is provided via reducing water. 
     It is known that the active hydrogen in different antioxidants has different physical properties, such as its magnetic resonance, causing it to have different biological effects. Therefore, the hydrogen coming from a specific substance carries some characteristics of the substance it came from. It is also known that hydrogen atoms of a substance can be exchanged with hydrogen atoms in a solvent, such as water. 
     It is therefore another object of the present invention to form water in which one or more of the hydrogen atoms are of a predetermined character. In this manner, water can be improved qualitatively and quantitatively. 
     It is known that air oxidized by ozone, chlorine and the like is toxic to plants. The oxidative potential of the air stems from the formation of hydroxyl radicals upon reaction of the oxidizing matter with the moisture in the air and the water in the plants. 
     It is therefore another object of the present invention to reduce oxidizing fluids, such as air, by contact with atomic hydrogen or reducing water. 
     It is also an object of the present invention to provide a vehicle for preventing or slowing harmful oxidation in biological, organic and inorganic systems. 
     There is thus provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention a method for improving water quality including the steps of: 
     providing a supply of water to be treated; and 
     decreasing the redox potential of the water principally by supplying thereto atomic hydrogen. 
     Preferably, the step of decreasing the redox potential comprises supplying molecular hydrogen to apparatus operative to convert the molecular hydrogen to atomic hydrogen. 
     The step of decreasing the redox potential may include the step of electrolysis. 
     In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the step of supplying includes the step of supplying molecular hydrogen to a porous material which is operative to disassociate the molecular hydrogen into atomic hydrogen and to adsorb the atomic hydrogen. 
     There is also provided, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention a method for improving water quality including the steps of: 
     providing a supply of water to be treated; and 
     decreasing the redox potential of the water by electrolysis employing a cathode and an anode, wherein water communicating with the anode and the cathode is not separated. 
     Additionally in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention there is provided a method for improving water quality including the steps of: 
     providing a supply of water to be treated; 
     initially oxidizing the water; and 
     subsequently reducing the redox potential of the oxidized water. 
     Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention there is provided a method for quenching the oxidizing free radicals of a substance including the steps of: 
     providing a supply of electron donors which following electron donation become oxidizers; and 
     providing a supply of a material rich in atomic hydrogen activity which immediately bonds with the oxidizers produced by electron donation so as to prevent the build up of a presence of oxidizers. 
     There is also provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention a method for quenching the oxidizing free radicals of a substance including the steps of: 
     providing an anti-oxidant which is operative for producing reduction of the substance and which, upon producing reduction does not act as an oxidant. 
     Preferably the anti-oxidant is atomic hydrogen. 
     Preferably the porous material comprises a ceramic material, or a sintered material including a catalyst or graphite. 
     Additionally in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention there is provided a method of improving air quality within an enclosure including the steps of: 
     reducing the redox potential of moisture in air to provide reducing air; and 
     supplying the reducing air to the enclosure. 
     Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention there is provided a method of improving air quality including the step of quenching oxidizing substances in the air. 
     Preferably, the step of quenching comprises the step of quenching hydroxyl free radicals in the air. 
     Additionally in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention there is provided a method of storing produce including the steps of: 
     maintaining produce in a controlled atmosphere; and 
     reducing the redox potential of the controlled atmosphere. 
     Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention there is provided a method of growing plants including: 
     providing water having a redox potential; 
     providing a plant; 
     reducing the redox potential of the water to produce reduced redox potential water; 
     irrigating the plant with the reduced redox potential water. 
     Preferably the method of growing plants also includes the step of providing a spray of the reduced redox potential water thereby to provide a reduced redox potential atmosphere for the plant. 
     Additionally in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention there is provided a method of soilless plant growth including the steps of: 
     providing water having a redox potential; 
     providing a plant; 
     reducing the redox potential of the water to produce reduced redox potential water; 
     providing the reduced redox potential water to the plant. 
     Preferably, the step of providing comprises the step of providing a water spray to the plant. 
     Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention there is provided a method of reducing the redox potential of fluids including the steps of: 
     reduction of the redox potential of a liquid to produce a reduced redox potential liquid; 
     freezing the reduced redox potential liquid to produce frozen reduced redox potential liquid; and 
     supplying the frozen reduced redox potential liquid to a fluid for reduction of the redox potential thereof. 
     Additionally in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention there is provided a method for improving water quality including the steps of: 
     killing microorganisms in the water by oxidizing the water; and 
     thereafter reducing the redox potential of the water. 
     Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention there is provided a method of storing produce including the steps of: 
     providing a supply of water; 
     increasing the redox potential of part of the supply of water to provide oxidizing water; 
     reducing the redox potential of another part of the supply of water to provide reducing water; 
     humidifying air using the reducing water to produce reducing air; 
     washing produce using the oxidizing water; 
     thereafter rinsing the produce in the reducing water; 
     thereafter removing excess reducing water from the produce by directing a flow of the reducing air onto the produce; and 
     thereafter maintaining the produce in a controlled atmosphere containing the reduced air. 
     Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention there is provided a method of disinfecting a liquid including the steps of: 
     supplying molecular oxygen and hydrogen to the liquid to create an excess of OH radicals for disinfection; and thereafter 
     supplying molecular hydrogen to the liquid to reduce the redox potential thereof. 
     Additionally in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention there is provided a method of operating a spa including the steps of: 
     heating, disinfecting and reducing the redox potential of water by applying thereto an AC electrical current which produces partial electrolysis thereof; and 
     supplying the heated, disinfected and reduced water to a spa. 
     Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention there is provided a method of providing a fluid with active hydrogen having selected characteristics including the steps of: 
     supplying hydrogen to a material having selected characteristics; and 
     causing exchange of hydrogen atoms between the material and the fluid, whereby the fluid receives hydrogen atoms from the material, which hydrogen atoms have the selected characteristics. 
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     The present invention will be understood and appreciated more fully from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the drawings in which: 
     FIG. 1 is a simplified illustration of apparatus for supplying atomic hydrogen to a fluid; 
     FIG. 2 is a simplified illustration of apparatus for reducing the redox potential of a liquid in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; 
     FIGS. 3A and 3B are simplified illustrations of apparatus for reducing the redox potential of a gas in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; 
     FIGS. 4A and 4B are simplified illustrations of apparatus for reducing the redox potential of a liquid in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention in two different variations; 
     FIG. 5 is a simplified illustration of apparatus for reducing the redox potential of a liquid in accordance with still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein a liquid is first oxidized and then reduced; 
     FIG. 6A is a simplified illustration of apparatus for reducing the redox potential of a liquid, wherein a liquid is first oxidized and then reduced in accordance with another embodiment of the invention; 
     FIG. 6B is a simplified illustration of a variation of the apparatus of FIG. 6A providing separate reducing and oxidizing functions; 
     FIG. 7 is a simplified illustration of an enclosure including apparatus for reducing the redox potential of the interior atmosphere thereof in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention; 
     FIG. 8 is a simplified illustration of apparatus for producing fluids with characteristic hydrogen; 
     FIG. 9 is a simplified sectional illustration of a multi-electrode water treatment facility constructed and operative in accordance with one preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
     FIG. 10 is a simplified sectional illustration of a multi-electrode water treatment facility constructed and operative in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
     FIG. 11 is a simplified sectional illustration of a multi-electrode water treatment facility constructed and operative in accordance with yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention; and 
     FIG. 12 is a simplified of a water treatment facility constructed and operative in accordance with still another preferred embodiment of the present invention. 
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     Reference is now made to FIG. 1, which is a simplified illustration of apparatus for supplying atomic hydrogen to a fluid. The apparatus preferably comprises a porous ceramic tube  10 , typically formed of alumina and which is commercially available from Coors Ceramic Company of Golden, Colo., under catalog number AL 998-L3. Molecular hydrogen from any suitable source, such as a gas cylinder or an electrolysis device, is supplied to the tube  10 , via a conduit  12 . A valve  14  and a pressure indicator  16  may be provided along conduit  12 . 
     The porous ceramic tube  10  is preferably operative to prevent substantial diffusion of molecular hydrogen therethrough, thereby retaining pressurized molecular hydrogen therewithin over a relatively long time, even when valve  14  is closed. Atomic hydrogen, however, does become absorbed in pores of the tube  10 , communicating with the outer surface thereof. 
     By causing a fluid, such as a gas, e.g. air, or a liquid, e.g. water or a hydrocarbon fuel, to flow past tube  10 , atomic hydrogen is supplied to the fluid, thus reducing the redox potential thereof, i.e. increasing the hydrogen activity of the fluid. Typical reductions of redox potential may be from about +300 mv to −150 mv for water, gasoline and air. 
     Reference is now made to FIG. 2 which shows the apparatus of FIG. 1 in a bath  18  or conduit of a liquid. The liquid is preferably stirred or otherwise caused to flow past the tube  10 , for reducing the redox potential of the liquid in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
     Reference is now made to FIGS. 3A and 3B, which are simplified illustrations of apparatus for reducing the redox potential of a gas in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. It is seen that a plurality of tubes  10  are associated via a manifold  20  with a source of molecular hydrogen. A fan  22 , or any other suitable device is provided for causing the gas to flow past the tubes  10 . It is appreciated that the water vapor in the air picks up and reacts with the atomic hydrogen. In effect, the redox potential of the gas is thus reduced by reducing the redox potential of the liquid carried thereby. 
     Reference is now made to FIG. 4A which is a simplified illustration of apparatus for reducing the redox potential of a liquid in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. A non-conductive housing  30  is provided with a liquid inlet  32  and a liquid outlet  34 . A pair of respective negative and positive electrolysis electrodes  36  and  38  are located within the housing. By application of DC voltage across the electrodes  36  and  38 , hydrogen is caused to be present on the negative electrode  36 . This hydrogen is picked up by the liquid passing through housing  30 . Oxygen and chlorine may be present on the positive electrode  38 . Generally, the oxygen does not oxidize water. The chlorine strongly oxidizes the water by forming OH radicals. The net result, however, is reduction of the water. 
     Reference is now made to FIG. 4B which is a simplified illustration of apparatus for reducing the redox potential of a liquid in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention. A housing  29  is formed of stainless steel pipe and is associated with a liquid inlet element  31  and a liquid outlet element  33 . The housing  29  is coupled to the negative terminal of a DC power supply  35  and serves as a negative electrode. 
     Disposed preferably concentrically within housing  29  is a stainless steel rod or pipe  37  which is mounted by a pair of insulating mounts  39  and is coupled to the positive terminal of power supply  35 . Rod or pipe  37  serves as the positive electrode. 
     By application of DC voltage across the electrodes  29  and  37 , hydrogen is caused to be present on the interior surface of housing  29 . This hydrogen is picked up by the liquid passing through housing  29 . Oxygen and chlorine may be present on the positive electrode  38 . Generally, the oxygen does not oxidize water. The chlorine strongly oxidizes the water by forming OH radicals. The net result, however, is reduced water. 
     Reference is now made to FIG. 5 which is a simplified illustration of apparatus for reducing the redox potential of a liquid in accordance with still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein a liquid is first oxidized and then reduced. The apparatus comprises a pair of non-conducting housings  40  and  42  which are interconnected by a plurality of non-conducting electrochemical bridges  44 , each of which may include a porous ceramic barrier  46 . Each of housings  40  and  42  includes a liquid inlet and a liquid outlet, indicated respectively by reference numerals  48 ,  50  and  52 ,  54 . A positive electrolysis electrode  56  is disposed within housing  40 , while a negative electrolysis electrode  58  is disposed in housing  42 . 
     The apparatus of FIG. 5, which is particularly suitable for disinfecting water, operates by causing water to enter housing  40  via inlet  48  and to be oxidized by electrode  56 . The oxidized water, downstream of electrode  56 , is supplied to an oxidation enhancement chamber  60 , typically filled with activated carbon and ceramic beads. Chamber  60  provides high surface contact and dwelling time to enable the full oxidation of the water by the oxygen and chlorine produced by the operation of the positive electrode  56  on water, thereby to kill microorganisms therein. 
     The thus disinfected water is then supplied via inlet  52  to housing  42  wherein it is reduced. The reduced water from housing  42  is provided to a reduction enhancement chamber  62 , typically filled with activated carbon and ceramic beads. Chamber  62  provides high surface contact and dwelling time to enable the full reduction of the water. 
     Reference is now made to FIG. 6A which is a simplified illustration of apparatus for reducing the redox potential of a liquid, wherein a liquid is first oxidized and then reduced in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. Here a housing  70  is formed of a conductor, such as stainless steel and defines a negative electrolysis electrode. Housing  70  is formed with a liquid inlet  72  and a liquid outlet  74 . Disposed within housing  70  is a tube  76  formed of a porous ceramic material, which may be identical to that used in tube  10  described hereinabove. 
     A positive electrolysis electrode  78  is disposed interiorly of tube  76 , so as to oxidize liquid entering through inlet  72 . The oxidized liquid passes along a conduit  80  to the interior of housing  70 , outside of tube  76 , where it is reduced by hydrogen formed on the interior surface of housing  70 , which operates as a negative electrode. Reduced, disinfected liquid, such as water is output at outlet  74 . Alternatively, the ceramic tube  76  may be replaced by a fabric hose or similar device, which does not permit significant passage therethrough of liquid but does permit passage therethrough of electrical current. 
     Reference is now made to FIG. 6B which is a simplified illustration of a variation of the apparatus of FIG. 6A for reducing the redox potential of a liquid, wherein a liquid is first oxidized and then reduced in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. Here a housing  82  is formed of a conductor, such as stainless steel, and defines a negative electrolysis electrode. Housing  82  is formed with a liquid inlet  84  and a reduced cathodic liquid outlet  86 . Disposed within housing  82  is a tube  88  formed of a porous ceramic material, which may be identical to that used in tube  10  described hereinabove. Tube  88  is formed with a liquid inlet  89  and an anodic water outlet  90 . 
     A positive electrolysis electrode  92  is disposed interiorly of tube  88 , so as to oxidize liquid entering through inlet  89 . The oxidized liquid passes out through outlet  90 . Liquid entering via inlet  84  is reduced by hydrogen formed on the interior surface of housing  82 , which operates as a negative electrode. Reduced, cathodic liquid, such as water, is output at outlet  86 . Alternatively, the ceramic tube  88  may be replaced by a fabric hose or similar device, which does not permit significant passage therethrough of liquid but does permit passage therethrough of electrical current. 
     Reference is now made to FIG. 7 which is a simplified illustration of a growing enclosure  94  including apparatus for reducing the redox potential of the interior atmosphere  98  thereof in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention. It is seen that reducing water is employed not only for watering the plants  94 , but also for spraying in the air, so as to reduce the redox potential of the interior atmosphere of the growing enclosure. 
     Reference is now made to FIG. 8 which is a simplified illustration of apparatus for characterizing hydrogen. Hydrogen is supplied to a container  100  typically formed of a porous ceramic material, such as that employed for tubes  10 , described hereinabove. Alternatively tubes  10  and/or container  100  may be made of metal through which it can be shown that hydrogen diffuses. Disposed within container  100  is preferably a finely divided material, preferably an organic material or other active material which is a hydrogen donor, whose characteristics it is sought to obtain in atomic hydrogen. Hydrogen supplied to container  100  is exchanged with the hydrogen of the material contained in container  100  and the exchanged atomic hydrogen of the material collects on the outer surface of the container  100 , so as to be able to be picked up by fluid, such as gas, or air, flowing therepast. The exchanged atomic hydrogen has characteristics of the material from which it was received, and thus, in effect contains information. 
     Reference is now made to FIG. 9 which is a simplified sectional illustration of a multi-electrode water treatment facility constructed and operative in accordance with one preferred embodiment of the present invention. The water treatment facility comprises a container  200 , preferably formed of a non-electrically conductive material or coated with such a material, typically having a generally rectangular configuration and defining two opposite ends  202  and  204 . 
     Adjacent ends  202  and  204  there are preferably formed an anode  206  and a cathode  208  respectively. Anode  206  and cathode  208  are preferably formed of carbon, such as graphite. Alternatively the anode and cathode may be formed of any other suitable electrically conductive material, such as platinum or gold, which is not soluble under electrolysis. 
     A battery or other source of DC voltage  210  is connected across anode  206  and cathode  208  as illustrated. 
     In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention a plurality of auxiliary electrode assemblies  212 , preferably having a carbon surface facing cathode  208  and a surface of a selected metal facing anode  206 , are provided in mutually spaced relationship between anode  206  and cathode  208  in container  200 , thus dividing the container as illustrated. 
     In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of auxiliary electrode assemblies includes electrode assemblies  212  having anode-facing surfaces of different metals, such as for example, Magnesium, Copper, Silver and Iron. The selection of metals is preferably in accordance with desired properties of such metals which it is intended to impart to water in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. 
     A supply of water, such as ordinary tap or well water, or alternatively any water based liquid having electrical conductivity is supplied to container  200  via an inlet  220 . The water initially passes through a passageway  222  between anode  206  and a magnesium anode-facing electrode surface  224 , functioning as a cathode. Thereafter, the water passes via a conduit  226  to a passageway  228  between a carbon cathode-facing electrode surface  230 , functioning as a anode and a copper anode-facing electrode surface  232 , functioning as a cathode. Thereafter, the water passes via a conduit  234  to a passageway  236  between a carbon cathode-facing electrode surface  238 , functioning as a anode and a silver anode-facing electrode surface  240 , functioning as a cathode. Thereafter, the water passes via a conduit  242  to a passageway  244  between a carbon cathode-facing electrode surface  246 , functioning as a anode, and an iron anode-facing electrode surface  248 , functioning as a cathode. Thereafter, the water passes via a conduit  250  to a passageway  252  between a carbon cathode-facing electrode surface  254 , functioning as a anode and cathode  208 . Water exits passageway  252  via an outlet  256 . 
     In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, as the water passes through the treatment facility some of the hydrogen atoms in the water become substituted by hydrogen atoms which originated on the various metal anode-facing surfaces. In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention, this substitution imparts to the water certain characteristics of the respective metals of such surfaces. It is a particular feature of the invention that the characteristics of the various metals are imparted to the water without requiring that any metal atoms or ions enter the water or become dissolved therein. 
     It is appreciated that any suitable number of auxiliary electrode assemblies may be employed. They may be electrically floating or alternatively coupled to battery  210  and may be formed with surfaces of any suitable metal. 
     Reference is now made to FIG. 10 which is a simplified sectional illustration of a multi-electrode water treatment facility constructed and operative in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention. The facility of FIG. 10 is operative initially to oxidize and thereafter to reduce water passing therethrough, as distinguished from the facility of FIG. 9, which only produces a reduced water output. 
     The water treatment facility of FIG. 10 comprises a container  300 , preferably formed of a non-electrically conductive material or coated with such a material, typically having a generally rectangular configuration and defining two opposite ends  302  and  304 . 
     Adjacent ends  302  and  304  there are preferably formed an anode  306  and a cathode  308  respectively. Anode  306  and cathode  308  are preferably formed of carbon, such as graphite. Alternatively the anode and cathode may be formed of any other suitable electrically conductive material, such as platinum or gold, which is not soluble under electrolysis. 
     A battery or other source of DC voltage  310  is connected across anode  306  and cathode  308  as illustrated. 
     In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention a plurality of auxiliary electrode assemblies  312 , preferably having a carbon surface facing cathode  308  and a surface of a selected metal facing anode  306 , are provided in mutually spaced relationship between anode  306  and cathode  308  in container  300 , thus dividing the container as illustrated. 
     Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, each of the auxiliary electrode assemblies  312  is separated from the electrode or electrode assemblies adjacent thereto by a non-electrically conductive membrane  315  which permits passage of ions but does not generally permit passage of water. A typical membrane which is suitable for this purpose is a thin porous ceramic plate or a cloth, having openings sufficiently small so as to greatly restrict the amount of liquid passing therethrough. 
     In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of auxiliary electrode assemblies includes electrode assemblies  312  having anode-facing surfaces of different metals, such as for example, Magnesium, Copper, Silver and Iron. The selection of metals is preferably in accordance with desired properties of such metals which it is intended to impart to water in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. 
     A supply of water, such as ordinary tap or well water, or alternatively any water based liquid having electrical conductivity, is supplied to container  300  via an inlet  320 . The water initially passes through a passageway  322  between anode  306  and a membrane  315 . Thereafter, the water passes through a conduit  324  to a passageway  326  between a carbon cathode-facing electrode surface  328 , functioning as a anode and another membrane  315 . Thereafter, the water passes through a conduit  330  to a passageway  332  between a carbon cathode-facing electrode surface  334 , functioning as a anode and yet another membrane  315 . Thereafter, the water passes through a conduit  336  to a passageway  338  between a carbon cathode-facing electrode surface  340 , functioning as a anode, and still another membrane  315 . Thereafter, the water passes through a conduit  342  to a passageway  344  between a carbon cathode-facing electrode surface  346 , functioning as a anode, and a further membrane  315 . At this point the water is oxidized and sterilized. 
     Following the above-described oxidation step, the water passes through a reducing process, much like that described hereinabove in connection with FIG.  9 . The water passes through a conduit  348  to a passageway  350  between the cathode  308  and the same further membrane  315 , mentioned above. From passageway  350 , the water passes via a conduit  352  to a passageway  354  between a membrane  315  and an iron anode-facing electrode surface  356 , functioning as a cathode. On the opposite side of the membrane there is present carbon cathode-facing electrode surface  340 , functioning as an anode. 
     Thereafter, the water passes via a conduit  358  to a passageway  360  between a membrane  315 , on the opposite side of which there is disposed carbon cathode-facing electrode surface  334  functioning as a anode, and a silver anode-facing electrode surface  362 , functioning as a cathode. Thereafter, the water passes via a conduit  364  to a passageway  366  between a membrane  315 , on the opposite side of which there is disposed a carbon cathode-facing electrode surface  328  functioning as a anode, and a copper anode-facing electrode surface  368 , functioning as a cathode. 
     Thereafter, the water passes via a conduit  370  to a passageway  372  between a membrane  315 , on the opposite side of which is disposed anode  306 , and a magnesium anode-facing electrode surface  374 , functioning as a cathode. From passageway  372 , the oxidized and subsequently reduced water passes to an outlet  378  and into conduit  380 . 
     As in the embodiment of FIG. 9, as the water passes through the reducing path of the treatment facility some of the hydrogen atoms in the water become substituted by hydrogen atoms which originated on the various metal anode-facing surfaces. In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention, this substitution imparts to the water certain characteristics of the respective metals of such surfaces. It is a particular feature of the invention that the characteristics of the various metals are imparted to the water without requiring that any metal atoms or ions enter the water or become dissolved therein. 
     Reference is now made to FIG. 11 which is a simplified sectional illustration of a multi-electrode water treatment facility constructed and operative in accordance with a further preferred embodiment of the present invention. The facility of FIG. 11 is operative simultaneously to oxidize and to reduce water passing therethrough in parallel streams. 
     The water treatment facility of FIG. 11 is similar to that of FIG. 10 in that it comprises a container  400 , preferably formed of a non-electrically conductive material or coated with such a material, typically having a generally rectangular configuration and defining two opposite ends  402  and  404 . 
     Adjacent ends  402  and  404  there are preferably formed an anode  406  and a cathode  408  respectively. Anode  406  and cathode  408  are preferably formed of carbon, such as graphite. Alternatively the anode and cathode may be formed of any other suitable electrically conductive material, such as platinum or gold, which is not soluble under electrolysis. 
     A battery or other source of DC voltage  410  is connected across anode  406  and cathode  408  as illustrated. 
     In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention a plurality of auxiliary electrode assemblies  412 , preferably having a carbon surface facing cathode  408  and a surface of a selected metal facing anode  406 , are provided in mutually spaced relationship between anode  406  and cathode  408  in container  400 , thus dividing the container as illustrated. 
     Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, each of the auxiliary electrode assemblies  412  is separated from the electrode or electrode assemblies adjacent thereto by a non-electrically conductive membrane  415  which permits passage of ions but does not generally permit passage of water. A typical membrane which is suitable for this purpose is a thin porous ceramic plate or a cloth, having openings sufficiently small so as to greatly restrict the amount of liquid passing therethrough. 
     In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of auxiliary electrode assemblies includes electrode assemblies  412  having anode-facing surfaces of different metals, such as for example, Magnesium, Copper, Silver and Iron. The selection of metals is preferably in accordance with desired properties of such metals which it is intended to impart to water in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. 
     A supply of water, such as ordinary tap or well water, or alternatively any water based liquid having electrical conductivity, is supplied to container  400  via a bifurcating inlet  420 . One branch  421  of the inlet directs part of the water initially through a passageway  422  between anode  406  and a membrane  415 . Thereafter, the water passes through a conduit  424  to a passageway  426  between a carbon cathode-facing electrode surface  428 , functioning as a anode, and another membrane  415 . 
     Thereafter, the water passes through a conduit  430  to a passageway  432  between a carbon cathode-facing electrode surface  434 , functioning as a anode, and yet another membrane  415 . Thereafter, the water passes through a conduit  436  to a passageway  438  between a carbon cathode-facing electrode surface  440 , functioning as a anode, and still another membrane  415 . Thereafter, the water passes through a conduit  442  to a passageway  444  between a carbon cathode-facing electrode surface  446 , functioning as a anode, and a further membrane  415 . At this point the water is oxidized and sterilized and is supplied at an outlet  448  and into conduit  447 . 
     A second branch  449  of inlet  420  leads another part of the water through a reducing process, much like that described hereinabove in connection with FIG.  9 . The water passes through a passageway  450  between a membrane  415  and a copper aniode-facing electrode surface  456 , functioning as a cathode. On the opposite side of the membrane is disposed anode  406 . 
     Thereafter, the water passes via a conduit  458  to a passageway  460  between a membrane  415 , on the opposite side of which there is disposed carbon cathode-facing electrode surface  428  functioning as an anode, and a magnesium anode-facing electrode surface  462 , functioning as a cathode. Thereafter, the water passes via a conduit  464  to a passageway  466  between a membrane  415 , on the opposite side of which there is disposed carbon cathode-facing electrode surface  434  functioning as a anode, and an iron anode-facing electrode surface  468 , functioning as a cathode. 
     Thereafter, the water passes via a conduit  470  to a passageway  472  between a membrane  415 , on the opposite side of which is disposed carbon cathode-facing electrode surface  440  functioning as a anode, and a silver anode-facing electrode surface  474 , functioning as a cathode. 
     Thereafter, the water passes via a conduit  476  to a passageway  478  between a membrane  415 , on the opposite side of which is disposed carbon cathode-facing electrode surface  446  functioning as a anode, and cathode  408 . From passageway  478  the reduced water passes to an outlet  480  and into conduit  482 . 
     As in the embodiment of FIG. 9, as the water passes through the reducing path of the treatment facility some of the hydrogen atoms in the water become substituted by hydrogen atoms which originated on the various metal anode-facing surfaces. In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention, this substitution imparts to the water certain characteristics of the respective metals of such surfaces. It is a particular feature of the invention that the characteristics of the various metals are imparted to the water without requiring that any metal atoms or ions enter the water or become dissolved therein. 
     Reference is now made to FIG. 12 which illustrates a water treatment facility constructed and operative in accordance with yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention. The facility comprises a container  500  which is divided into two chambers  502  and  504  by a hydrogen permeable, otherwise non-permeable barrier  506 , which functions as a cathode. Barrier  506  may comprise a metal plate or a barrier of any suitable substance, such as an alloy, which contains metal and other elements. It is appreciated by applicant that hydrogen permeates through metal, which is not otherwise permeable. 
     An anode  508  is disposed adjacent one wall of the container  500  opposite cathode  506  at an opposite side therefrom in chamber  502  and is electrically coupled to the cathode by via a battery or other voltage source  510 . Chamber  504  is provided with a water inlet  512  and a water outlet  514  for circulation of water therethrough. 
     In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, an electrolyte fills chamber  502  and hydrogen having the characteristics of the elements making up the electrolyte and/or of the metal forming the cathode  506  diffuses through the metal barrier  506  to the face thereof which is in contact with water flowing through chamber  504 . The hydrogen atoms appearing on that face of the barrier  506  are exchanged with hydrogen atoms making up the water and thus enter the water and cause the water to have those characteristics. 
     The transfer of hydrogen having the characteristics of the elements making up the electrolyte and/or of the metal forming the cathode  506  to the water may be enhanced by first oxidizing the water prior to supplying it to chamber  504 , such as by using the facility of FIG.  11 . 
     It is appreciated that the facility described above is operative to introduce hydrogen of desired characteristics into any suitable water based solution as well as to distilled water having substantially no impurities. 
     A number of examples of the invention will now be described: 
     EXAMPLE I 
     Stress Tomato Plants 
     Two sets of four trays of tomato plants were grown in a greenhouse in Patterson, Calif. The control tray was irrigated with well water whose measured redox potential was between 270 and 300 mv, while the test tray was irrigated with the same well water which had been treated using reducing equipment of the type illustrated in FIG.  4 B. The measured redox potential of the test irrigation water was about 50 mv. 
     Both trays were not irrigated for three days. The lack of irrigation resulted in dehydration and browning of the plants in the control tray but did not result in browning or visible stress in the test plants. 
     EXAMPLE II 
     Stressed Cauliflower Plants 
     Eight trays of cauliflower plants were grown in a greenhouse in Patterson, Calif. The control trays were irrigated with well water whose measured redox potential was between 270 and 300 mv, while the test trays were irrigated with the same well water which had been treated using reducing equipment of the type illustrated in FIG.  4 B. The measured redox potential of the test irrigation water was about 50 mv. Both groups of trays grew normally for about three months and appeared to be identical. 
     Both sets of trays were not irrigated for three days. The lack of irrigation resulted in dehydration and browning of the plants in both the control trays and the test trays. Irrigation was then resumed as before. Most of the plants in the test trays returned nearly to their previous normal state, but none of the plants in the control trays revived. 
     EXAMPLE III 
     High Salinity Stress Celery Plants 
     Two identical beds of celery plants, each about 100 feet long and 12 feet wide and containing hundreds of thousands of plants, were grown in a greenhouse in Salinas, Calif. The control plants were irrigated with well water whose measured redox potential was between 270 and 300 mv, while the test plants were irrigated with the same well water which had been treated using reducing equipment of the type illustrated in FIG.  4 B. The measured redox potential of the test irrigation water was about 50 mv. 
     Both groups of plants grew normally for about 6 weeks until salinity stress was noticed in the control plants. The salinity stress was expressed in yellowing of the control plants and damage to the roots of the control plants. No corresponding salinity stress was noticed in the test plants. 
     EXAMPLE IV 
     Growth and Vitality Cauliflower Plants 
     Four trays of cauliflower plants were grown outdoors in Patterson, Calif. The control trays were irrigated with well water whose measured redox potential was between 270 and 300 mv, while the test trays were irrigated with the same well water which had been treated by boiling for two minutes and subsequent cooling to ambient temperature. The measured redox potential of the test irrigation water was about 100 mv. Both groups of trays grew normally for about one month and appeared to be identical. 
     Thereafter the control plants began to show signs of fatigue, loss of color, and susceptibility to attack by pests. The test plants did not show such fatigue or loss of color and showed less susceptibility to attack by pests. 
     EXAMPLE V 
     Growth and Vitality Tomato Plants 
     Forty acres of tomato plants were grown in Five Points, Calif. Thirty-nine of the forty acres were irrigated with water whose measured redox potential was about 310 mv, while a control acre was irrigated with the same water which had been treated using reducing equipment of the type illustrated in FIG.  4 B. The measured redox potential of the test irrigation water was about 45 mv. All plants were seeded in January, 1993. Irrigation began in April and proceeded for 8 hours once a week. Plants were harvested on Jul. 16, 1993. 
     Samples of fruit bearing plants were selected from both the control and the test acreage during harvest. The test plants were larger and heavier than the control plants. Although the number of tomatoes per plant was about the same for the control and test plants, the weight of the tomatoes in the test group was about 40% higher than that for the control group. The solid content, pH and other quality parameters were the same in both groups. 
     EXAMPLE VI 
     Reduction of Water by Electrolysis 
     Well water at Patterson, Calif., having a redox potential of 312 mv was supplied to apparatus of the type illustrated in FIG. 4B at a rate of about 5 gallons per minute. The current was 20 Ampere and the voltage was 16 Volts. The water output had a measured redox potential of 45 mv. This water was supplied to a spa and was circulated therethrough and was also employed for irrigation. 
     EXAMPLE VII 
     Reduction of Water by Electrolysis 
     Well water at Patterson, Calif., having a redox potential of 312 mv was supplied to apparatus of the type illustrated in FIG. 4B at a rate of about 5 gallons per minute. AC current was employed at 220 Volt. The water output had a measured redox potential of 45 mv. Operation of the apparatus of FIG. 4B using AC current provided heating of the water and disinfection thereof in addition to the reduction of the redox potential thereof. This water was supplied to a spa and was circulated therethrough and through the apparatus of FIG.  4 B. 
     EXAMPLE VIII 
     Reduction of Water by Electrolysis 
     Well water at Patterson, Calif., having a redox potential of 270 mv was supplied to apparatus of the type illustrated in FIG. 6A at a rate of about 1 gallon per minute. DC current was employed at 2 Amperes and a titanium electrode  78  was employed. 
     The water output had a measured redox potential of −50 mv. 
     EXAMPLE IX 
     Reduction of Water by Electrolysis 
     Well water at Patterson, Calif., having a redox potential of 270 mv was supplied to apparatus of the type illustrated in FIG. 6B at a rate of about 1 gallon per minute. DC current was employed at 2 Amperes and a titanium electrode  92  was employed. 
     The water output at outlet  86  had a measured redox potential of 350 mv. The water output at outlet  90  had a measured redox potential of −460 mv. 
     EXAMPLE X 
     Dechlorination and Reduction of Water by Electrolysis 
     Well water at Patterson, Calif., having a redox potential of 270 mv was chlorinated with commercial chlorine solution. The redox potential of the chlorinated water was 690 mv. The chlorinated water was supplied to apparatus of the type illustrated in FIG. 6A at a rate of about 1 gallon per minute. DC current was employed at 2 Amperes and a titanium electrode  78  was employed. 
     The water output had a measured redox potential of 640 mv. This output was passed through an 8 inch long tube containing active carbon. The water output from the tube had a measured redox potential of −50 mv. 
     EXAMPLE XI 
     Ice Cubes of Reducing Water 
     Hydrogen gas was bubbled into tap water using a sparger for about one minute. The measured redox potential of the tap water was reduced thereby from 295 mv to −50 mv. The thus reduced water was frozen into ice cubes and used subsequently in a variety of drinks. Melting of the ice cubes greatly reduced the redox potential of the drinks. 
     EXAMPLE XII 
     Reducing Water Using Ceramic Tube 
     Hydrogen was supplied under a pressure of 30 psi to a ceramic tube as illustrated in FIG.  2 . Water was provided at a redox potential of 285 mv. Upon agitating the ceramic tube in the water, the redox potential of the water dropped to 85 mv. 
     EXAMPLE XIII 
     Transfer of Characteristics of Hydrogen 
     One gram of dry black pepper powder is placed in a ceramic tube as illustrated in FIG.  2 . Hydrogen gas was supplied to the interior of the tube at a pressure of 25 psi. The water outside of the ceramic tube became slightly discolored and had a slight taste of pepper. 
     Part of the ceramic tube was left above the water line. Brown colored liquid droplets having a strong taste of pepper were found on the outer surface of the ceramic tube above the water line. 
     A control experiment identical to the foregoing but using nitrogen gas instead of hydrogen gas, produced none of the observed results. 
     EXAMPLE XIV 
     Enhancement of Hydrocarbon Fuel 
     Hydrogen was sparged into regular unleaded gasoline. The redox potential of the gasoline was reduced from about 300 mv to −150 mv. This gasoline was employed in a lawnmower and an automobile and appeared to provide easier starting and more powerful operation. 
     EXAMPLE XV 
     Irrigation of Tomato Plants 
     One control row of tomatoes was irrigated with well water. Three additional rows were irrigated with well water after the prices of reduction. The reducing process was performed by two different treatment devices. One device was constructed from a steel tube, serving as a cathode; the cathode of the second device was made of stainless steel. The row irrigated by the reduced water flowing over the steel cathode exhibited faster growth than the control row. The plants irrigated by water reduced over a stainless steel cathode exhibited very poor growth as compared to the control row. 
     Thus, it may be concluded that not only the reduction enhances the growth but that the characteristics of the hydrogen may have a positive or a negative effect on the growth. 
     Experiments to study fungicidal, pesticidal and herbicidal effects of water composed of hydrogen of different specificity and characteristics are being undertaken. These experiments were initiated in view of the fact that proven materials contain specific elements. 
     EXAMPLE XVI 
     Examples of Use of Apparatus of FIGS. 9 and 10 
     Water was reduced electrochemically in a rectangular container having an anode and cathode spaced 15 cm apart. The voltage was 30 volts and the current was 0.2 amps. Both electrodes were made of steel. Hydrogen evolved from the cathode and the iron electrode dissolved on the anode. Placing a flat steel sheet of the same dimensions as of the electrodes in the middle of the container did not effect the current and the voltage. The steel sheet was releasing hydrogen on the side facing the anode and iron dissolution was observed on the side facing the cathode. The amount of hydrogen on the cathode and electrically floating sheet appeared to be the same. The reduction of the water was enhanced. Placing four sheets of steel in the water between the anode and the cathode caused hydrogen evolution to appear on all the sheets to the same degree as that on the sides facing the anode. The water was reduced in a much shorter time than that in previous experiment with the single steel plate. The amount of iron dissolution increased correspondingly. 
     It was therefore concluded that the device in FIG. 9 will reduce the water at a very fast rate and at low power demands. Additionally, using different metals for cathodes, hydrogen of multiple characteristics will be formed in the water. 
     In order to oxidize the water for the purposes of sterilization, the anode passageway was separated from the cathode passageway, as illustrated in FIG.  11 . The oxidization, as expressed in the redox potential, of the water after passing through the anode passageways was very efficient in comparison to the results obtained in the device illustrated in FIG.  5 . 
     EXAMPLE XVII 
     Examples of the Use of Apparatus of FIG. 12 
     Using a steel cathode and sulfuric acid as the electrolyte, the steel blistered after a few hours. Using hydrochloric acid, under the same conditions, did not lead to blistering of the steel. Thus, it was concluded that the composition of the electrolyte has an effect on hydrogen permeability through the metal. It appears that the similarity of the elements in the electrolyte and the cathode has an effect on hydrogen permeability in the metal. Experiments are now being conducted to study the rate of reduction of the water in contact with the rearside of the cathode and the characteristics of the hydrogen in relation with the cathode material and the composition of the electrolyte. 
     EXAMPLE XVIII 
     Example of Use of Apparatus of FIG. 8 
     A drop of perfume was placed in the porous ceramic container which was filled with calcined carbon granules. After evacuation of the air, the tube was connected to a hydrogen gas cylinder and pressurized with hydrogen gas to a pressure of approximately 2 atms. After a few minutes an aroma of perfume was emanating from the tube. The tube was placed in water. No gas sparging was observed. The redox potential of the water was reduced. 
     After about 10 minutes the water had an aroma of perfume. The water retained the aroma for more than two weeks. The tube has been emanating the aroma for more than a month at the same intensity. When the tube was placed in either glycerin or alcohol no aroma of the perfume was detected. This led to the conclusion that the hydrogen loses its characteristic properties in these non-aqueous liquids. These experiments also prove that the molecules of the aroma material do not permeate through the ceramic tube and that the aroma is sensed through the characteristic hydrogen formed by the exchange process and permeating through the wall of the tube. 
     EXAMPLE XIX 
     Further Example to the Use of Apparatus of FIG. 5 
     Three fish tanks containing well water were inhabited with small ornamental fish. One tank was maintained as the control tank. The water in the second tank was circulated through the anodic compartment of the device described in FIG.  5 . The initial redox potential was 230 mv. After circulating and oxidizing the water for a few minutes the fish appeared to become sick; some were even lying on their sides at the bottom of the tank. The redox potential was measured to be 350 mv. When the potential reached a value of about 500 mv some of the fish died. Upon reduction of the water to a potential of about 100 mv the surviving fish resumed normal activity. 
     The redox potential of the water in the third tank was reduced to value of −250 mv. The reduced potential appeared to have no effects on the activity of the fish. 
     EXAMPLE XX 
     Further Example to the Use of Apparatus of FIG. 5 
     Tap water at different redox potentials was used for bread making. No additives such as the commonly used, such as potassium bromate and gluten were added to the dough. The control water at a redox potential of about 500 mv did not yield satisfactory bread, in respect to size, color and texture. The water oxidized to a potential of about 600 mv yielded flat bread. Water reduced to a redox potential of about 50 mv yielded a bread of larger volume than normal (which was not commercially acceptable) but also had no brown color and had too large air cavities. After some experimentation, a commercially acceptable bread was produced using water with a redox potential of about 300 mv and without additives. 
     It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited by what has been particularly shown and described hereinabove. Rather the scope of the present invention is defined only by the claims which follow: