Air treatment systems and methods

One disclosed system includes: (a) a fan directing an initial air stream to a heater with sufficient heating capacity to heat said initial airstream to a temperature of 200° C. to 350° C. and output a heated air stream; and (b) an air to air heat exchanger positioned and configured to use said heated air stream to preheat said initial airstream prior to its arrival at said heater. Additional systems and corresponding methods are disclosed.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention is in the field of air treatment.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The recent COVID-19 pandemic has created an increased demand for air purification systems.

WO 2019/239406 describes systems for purifying air that rely on a combination of pressure and temperature to destroy airborne pathogens and/or allergens.

In addition to pathogens, there are many non-biological contaminants in air.

For example, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are emitted as gases from certain solids or liquids. VOCs in air can have short- and long-term adverse health effects. Indoor concentrations of VOCs are typically as much as ten times higher than outdoor concentrations of the same compounds. The difference between indoor and outdoor VOC concentrations is because VOCs are emitted by a wide array of products including but not limited to paints and/or lacquers and/or paint strippers and/or cleaning supplies and/or pesticides and/or building materials and/or furnishings and/or office equipment (e.g. copiers and printers). In addition, many common school or office supplies emit VOCs. Examples include, but are not limited to correction fluids and/or carbonless copy paper and/or graphics and craft materials (e.g. glues and adhesives) and/or permanent markers.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One aspect of some embodiments of the invention relates to using heat in a stream of purified air to transform water to steam. In some embodiments, a heated flow of purified air is brought into contact with water. Optionally, the water is converted to steam which then dissolves in the stream of purified air (evaporative cooling).

In some embodiments, water used in the water spray is water that is removed from the air during the purification process. According to these embodiments, water content (humidity) of air entering an air purification system and leaving the system is about the same.

According to another aspect of some embodiments of the invention, air is purified at ambient atmospheric pressure. In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, a temperature applied to the air at ambient atmospheric pressure is 200° C.; 225° C.; 250° C.; 275° C.; 300° C.; 325° C. or intermediate or higher temperatures. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments a temperature applied to the air at ambient atmospheric pressure is 325° C.; 300° C.; 275° C.; 250° C.; 225° C.; 200° C. or intermediate or lower temperatures. In some embodiments, heat inactivates pathogens in the air. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, heat is used to activate a catalytic oxidizer. In some embodiments, the catalytic oxidizer contributes to a reduction in volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the air. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, hypochlorous acid is mixed with an airstream as part of a purification process. In some embodiments, hypochlorous acid contributes to a reduction in volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the air and/contributes to a reduction in an amount of active pathogens in the air. In some embodiments the hypochlorous acid is delivered in a spray of water.

Another aspect of some embodiments of the invention relates to electrolysis of salted water to produce hypochlorous acid. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the hypochlorous acid remains dissolved in water and the water is routed to a sprayer. In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, spraying of water containing hypochlorous acid into a stream of hot air contributes to a reduction in VOCs in the air. Alternatively or additionally, spraying of water containing hypochlorous acid into a stream of hot air contributes to a reduction in temperature and/or an increase in humidity of the air. According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention, the stream of air is an ambient pressure stream or a high-pressure stream.

Another aspect of some embodiments of the invention relates to use of a catalytic oxidizer to reduce VOCs in a heated air stream. According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention, the stream of air is an ambient pressure stream or a high-pressure stream.

Another aspect of some embodiments of the invention relates to using an Air to Air heat exchanger to transfer heat between 2 flows of compressed air. In some embodiments a heated flow of purified air is cooled prior to routing to a climate control system. Optionally, this cooling contributes to efficiency of the climate control system. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments a flow of compressed air is heated prior to purification by pressure which causes additional heating. Optionally, this preheating contributes to efficiency of the purification process.

In some embodiments compressed air with an initial temperature of 135° C. to 200° C. enters the heat exchanger and exits the heat exchanger at 20° C. to 50° C. above the initial temperature. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments a pressure tank further heats the air as part of a purification process.

In other exemplary embodiments of the invention, compressed air is cooled to remove excess water and enters the exchanger at 55° C. to 100° C. According to these embodiments the heat exchanger heats the compressed air to 150° C. to 200° C.

Still another aspect of some embodiments of the invention relates to using an orifice of fixed diameter to release pressurized air from an air treatment system. In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, a stream of purified air is cooled by releasing it through the orifice. In some embodiments internal energy is lost as the volume increases and heat energy is converted to kinetic energy. The orifice is a substitute for a valve. The orifice has no moving parts. The absence of moving parts contributes to an increase in durability and/or reliability and/or to a decrease in maintenance requirements, relative to a valve.

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, a single aspect set forth above is employed. In other exemplary embodiments of the invention, two, three, four, five or more aspects are combined.

It will be appreciated that the various aspects described above relate to solution of technical problems associated with air purification. Specifically, some embodiments of the invention relate to technical problems associated with reducing VOC concentration in air.

Alternatively or additionally, it will be appreciated that the various aspects described above relate to solution of technical problems related to reducing the temperature of a stream of purified air sufficiently that it can be incorporated into the airstream of a climate control system without adversely affecting performance of the climate control system.

Alternatively or additionally, it will be appreciated that the various aspects described above relate to solution of technical problems related to maintaining relative humidity during air purification.

Alternatively or additionally, it will be appreciated that the various aspects described above relate to solution of technical problems related to reducing the energy burden on an air purification system.

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention there is provided a system including: (a) a fan directing an initial air stream to a heater with sufficient heating capacity to heat the initial airstream to a temperature of 200° C. to 350° C. and output a heated air stream; and (b) an air to air heat exchanger positioned and configured to use the heated air stream to preheat the initial airstream prior to its arrival at the heater. In some embodiments the system includes a cooling unit positioned to further cool the heated air stream after it passes through the air to air heat exchanger. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the cooling unit includes one or more functional elements selected from the group consisting of a heat pump, an active heat exchanger and a passive heat exchanger. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the system includes an evaporative cooler comprising a water source. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the evaporative cooler is positioned to receive the heated air stream. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the evaporative cooler is positioned to receive the heated air stream after the heated air stream has passed through the air to air heat exchanger. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the evaporative cooler is positioned to receive the initial air stream as it exits the fan. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the system includes a catalytic oxidizer positioned between an exit of the heater and the air to air heat exchanger so that the heated air stream flows through the catalytic oxidizer producing a VOC reduced hot air stream. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the system includes a channel of fluid communication routing water from a water reservoir to the water source; and a pump configured to move the water through the channel of fluid communication to the water source. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the system includes an electrolytic element in the water reservoir. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the system includes a source of hypochlorous acid.

Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the air to air heat exchanger preheats the initial airstream from room temperature to at least 150° C. within 1 second. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the heater heats the initial airstream to at least 200° C. within 0.5 seconds to 1 second. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the heater heats the initial airstream to at least 350° C. within 1 second. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the heated air stream passing through the heat exchanger is cooled within 1 second as it heats the initial airstream. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the heater has a retention time of at least 5 seconds. In some embodiments baffles contribute to an increase in retention time. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the heated air stream output by the heater arrives at the heat exchanger at least 2 seconds after exiting the heater.

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention there is provided an air purification system including: (a) a compressor and a pressure tank providing an output flow stream of heated pressurized air; and (b) a water delivery mechanism configured and positioned to deliver water into the output flow stream of pressurized air. In some embodiments the water delivered by the water delivery mechanism comprises condensate from the compressor. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the water delivered by the water delivery mechanism comprises hypochlorous acid. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the system includes a channel of fluid communication routing water from a condensate collector pan of the compressor to the water delivery mechanism; and a pump configured to move the water through the channel of fluid communication to the water delivery mechanism. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the system includes an electrolytic element in the condensate collector pan of the compressor. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the system includes a catalytic oxidizer positioned to receive the output flow stream of pressurized air. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the system includes a UV lamp irradiating water in the condensate collector pan. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments a temperature of the output flow stream of pressurized air is at least 200° C. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments a pressure of the output flow stream of pressurized air is at least 4 atmospheres. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the pressure tank heats air to at least 200° C. within 0.5 seconds to 1 second. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the pressure tank heats said air to at least 350° C. within 1 second. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the pressure tank has a retention time of at least 5 seconds.

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention there is provided an air purification system including: (a) a compressor and a pressure tank providing an initial output flow stream of heated pressurized air; (b) a catalytic oxidizer positioned to receive the initial output flow stream of pressurized air and produce a modified output flow stream; and (c) a water delivery mechanism configured and positioned to deliver water into the modified output flow stream. In some exemplary embodiments of the invention there is provided an air purification system including: (a) a compressor and a pressure tank providing an initial output flow stream of heated pressurized air; (b) a catalytic oxidizer positioned to receive the initial output flow stream of pressurized air and produce a modified output flow stream; and (c) a water delivery mechanism configured and positioned to deliver water into the initial flow stream of heated pressurized air. In some embodiments of these systems the water delivered by the water delivery mechanism comprises condensate from the compressor. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments of these systems the water delivered by the water delivery mechanism comprises hypochlorous acid. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments these systems include a channel of fluid communication routing water from a condensate collector pan of the compressor to the water delivery mechanism; and a pump configured to move the water through the channel of fluid communication to the water delivery mechanism. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments these systems include an electrolytic element in the condensate collector pan of the compressor. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments these systems include a UV lamp irradiating water in the condensate collector pan. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments of these systems a temperature of the output flow stream of pressurized air is at least 200° C. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments of these systems a pressure of the output flow stream of pressurized air is at least 4 atmospheres. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the pressure tank heats air to at least 200° C. within 0.5 seconds to 1 second. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the pressure tank heats said air to at least 350° C. within 1 second. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the pressure tank has a retention time of at least 5 seconds.

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention there is provided a method including: (a) neutralizing volatile organic compounds in a flow stream of heated air with a catalytic oxidizer; and (b) using heat energy from the flow stream to convert water into steam. In some embodiments the stream of heated air is pressurized to at least 1.9 atmospheres.

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention there is provided a system including: (a) a dehumidifier producing a dehumidified air stream; (b) a heater with sufficient heating capacity to heat the dehumidified airstream to a temperature of 200° C. to 350° C. and output a heated air stream; (c) an air to air heat exchanger positioned and configured to use the heated air stream to preheat the dehumidified airstream prior to its arrival at the heater; and (d) an evaporative cooler. In some embodiments the evaporative cooler is positioned to receive the heated air stream after the heated air stream has passed through the air to air heat exchanger and comprising a water source. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the evaporative cooler is positioned to receive the heated air stream. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the system includes a catalytic oxidizer positioned between an exit of the heater and the air to air heat exchanger so that the heated air stream flows through the catalytic oxidizer producing a VOC reduced hot air stream. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the system includes a channel of fluid communication routing water from a condensate collector pan of the dehumidifier to the water source; and a pump configured to move the water through the channel of fluid communication to the water source. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the system includes an electrolytic element in the condensate collector pan of the dehumidifier. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the system includes a source of hypochlorous acid. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the air to air heat exchanger preheats the dehumidified air from room temperature to at least 150° C. within 1 second. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the heater heats the dehumidified airstream to at least 200° C. within 0.5 seconds to 1 second. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the heater heats the dehumidified airstream to at least 350° C. within 1 second. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the heated air stream passing through the heat exchanger is cooled within 1 second as it heats the dehumidified airstream. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the heater has a retention time of at least 5 seconds. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the heated air stream output by said heater arrives at said heat exchanger at least 2 seconds after exiting said heater.

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention there is provided a method including: (a) dehumidifying and heating air to a temperature of at least 200° C.; (b) reducing a concentration of VOCs in the air by at least 90%; and (c) cooling and re-humidifying the air.

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention there is provided a method including: (a) humidifying and heating air to a temperature of at least 200° C.; (b) reducing a concentration of VOCs in the air by at least 90%; and (c) cooling and dehumidifying the air.

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention there is provided a method including: (a) dispersing aqueous hypochlorous acid in an air stream with a temperature of at least 100° C.; and (b) routing the air stream to a catalytic oxidizer.

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention there is provided a method including: (a) using heat energy from a flow stream of heated pressurized air to convert water into steam; and (b) dissolving the steam in the air to humidify it.

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention there is provided an air purification system including: (a) a compressor providing a first output flow of pressurized air at a first temperature; (b) a pressure tank providing a second output flow of pressurized air at a second higher temperature; and (c) an air to air heat exchanger designed and configured to heat the first output flow using heat from the second output flow. In some embodiments the first temperature is at ambient temperature plus 25° C. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the second temperature is 120° C. to 190° C. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the pressurized air is at a pressure of at least 1.9 atmospheres. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the air to air heat exchanger preheats said pressurized air from room temperature to at least 150° C.; 160° C.; 170° C.; 180° C. or intermediate or higher temperatures within 1 second. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the pressure tank heats the pressurized airstream to at least 200° C. within 0.5 seconds to 1 second. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the pressure tank heats said pressurized airstream to at least 350° C. within 1 second. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the heated air stream passing through said heat exchanger is cooled within 1 second as it heats said pressurized airstream. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the pressure tank has a retention time of at least 5 seconds. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments heated air stream output by the pressure tank arrives at the heat exchanger after at least 2 seconds.

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention there is provided a method including: pressurizing airstreams directed to an air to air heat exchanger in an air treatment system. In some embodiments the pressurizing is to a pressure of at least 1.9 atmospheres.

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention there is provided an air purification system including: (a) a compressor providing an output flow of pressurized air to a pressure tank which heats the air while maintaining pressure; and (b) a release manifold having a partially closed end including an orifice, the manifold in fluid communication with the pressure tank.

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention there is provided a method including: routing a pressurized air stream at a temperature of at least 30° C. through a fixed diameter orifice to cool the stream. In some embodiments the temperature does not exceed 70° C. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments passage through the orifice cools the stream to 25° C. or less.

For purposes of this specification and the accompanying claims, the term “impurities” includes, but is not limited to, airborne pathogens and/or VOCs. As used herein, the terms “comprising” and “including” or grammatical variants thereof are to be taken as specifying inclusion of the stated features, integers, actions or components without precluding the addition of one or more additional features, integers, actions, components or groups thereof. This term is broader than, and includes the terms “consisting of” and “consisting essentially of” as defined by the Manual of Patent Examination Procedure of the United States Patent and Trademark Office. Thus, any recitation that an embodiment “includes” or “comprises” a feature is a specific statement that sub embodiments, “consist essentially of” and/or “consist of” the recited feature.

The phrase “consisting essentially of” or grammatical variants thereof when used herein are to be taken as specifying the stated features, integers, steps or components but do not preclude the addition of one or more additional features, integers, steps, components or groups thereof but only if the additional features, integers, steps, components or groups thereof do not materially alter the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed composition, device or method.

The phrase “adapted to” as used in this specification and the accompanying claims imposes additional structural limitations on a previously recited component.

The term “method” refers to manners, means, techniques and procedures for accomplishing a given task including, but not limited to, those manners, means, techniques and procedures either known to, or readily developed from known manners, means, techniques and procedures by practitioners of architecture and/or computer science.

Implementation of the method and system according to embodiments, of the invention involves performing or completing selected tasks or steps manually, automatically, or a combination thereof. Moreover, according to actual instrumentation and equipment of exemplary embodiments, of methods, apparatus and systems of the invention, several selected steps could be implemented by hardware or by software on any operating system of any firmware or a combination thereof. For example, as hardware, selected steps of the invention could be implemented as a chip or a circuit. As software, selected steps of the invention could be implemented as a plurality of software instructions being executed by a computer using any suitable operating system. In any case, selected steps of the method and system of the invention could be described as being performed by a data processor, such as a computing platform for executing a plurality of instructions.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Embodiments of the invention relate to air purification systems and methods.

Specifically, some embodiments of the invention are used to re-humidify air in an air purification system and/or reduce the heating burden on a climate control system receiving purified air from the system. Alternatively or additionally, some embodiments of the invention are used to reduce a concentration of VOCs in the air and/or to inactivate airborne pathogens.

The principles and operation of an air purification system and method according to exemplary embodiments of the invention may be better understood with reference to the drawings and accompanying descriptions.

Exemplary High Pressure System

FIG.1Ais simplified schematic representation of an air purification system, indicated generally as400, according to some exemplary embodiments of the invention.

Depicted exemplary air purification system400includes a compressor120and a pressure tank180providing an output flow stream184of heated pressurized air. In the depicted embodiment, compressor120draws in ambient air118, which carries one or more types of impurities. Compressor120produces a pressurized airstream122that is conveyed to pressure tank180.

According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention airstream122has a pressure of 1.9 atmospheres; 3 atmospheres; 4 atmospheres; 5 atmospheres; 6 atmospheres; 7 atmospheres; 8 atmospheres; 9 atmospheres; 10 atmospheres or intermediate pressures. In some embodiments airstream122has a pressure of 8 to 10 atmospheres. Although airstream122is depicted as an arrow, it is typically directed by a pipe or other conduit to pressure tank180.

In the depicted embodiment, system400includes a pressure tank180which receives output airstream122of pressurized air and heats the air while maintaining pressure. In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, pressure tank180heats the air to a temperature of 170° C.; 180° C.; 190° C.; 200° C.; 210° C.; 220° C.; 230° C.; 240° C.; 250° C. or intermediate or higher temperature. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments pressure tank180heats the air to a target temperature for 1 seconds, 2 seconds, 3 seconds, 4 seconds, 5 seconds, 6 seconds, 7 seconds, 8 seconds, 9 seconds, 10 seconds, 11 seconds, 12 seconds, 20 seconds, 30 seconds, 40 seconds, 50 seconds, or 60 seconds or intermediate or longer amounts of time. In some embodiments, a temperature of output flow stream184of pressurized air is at least 200° C. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments a pressure of said output flow stream of pressurized air is at least 1.9 atmospheres or at least 4 atmospheres.

In the depicted embodiment, system400includes a water delivery mechanism430configured and positioned to deliver water into output flow stream184of pressurized air. In the depicted embodiment, the water delivery mechanism430is a sprayer. In other exemplary embodiments of the invention, water delivery mechanism430is a nebulizer or wick/evaporative device.

In the depicted embodiment, water delivered by water delivery mechanism430comprises condensate from compressor120. In the depicted embodiment, condensate from compressor120collects in a collection pan410and is pumped by a pump420trough pipes419and421to water delivery mechanism430. Pipes419and/or421provide a channel of fluid communication. In some embodiments a UV lamp412shines on water in pan410. In some embodiments UV irradiation inactivates microorganisms in the water (e.g. bacteria and/or virus particles).

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, water delivered by water delivery mechanism430contains hypochlorous acid. In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, condensate collector pan410contains an electrolytic element414. According to these embodiments salt placed in water in pan410produces hypochlorous acid as a result of electrolysis. In other exemplary embodiments of the invention, hypochlorous acid is provided from an external source. In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, water delivered to stream184by mechanism430is converted to steam by heat energy in stream184. In some embodiments conversion of water to steam cools the air in stream184.

In the depicted embodiment, system400includes a catalytic oxidizer480positioned to receive the output flow stream184. In some embodiments a higher temperature of stream184contributes to an increase in oxidation by catalytic oxidizer480.

In other exemplary embodiments of the invention, (not depicted) water delivered by mechanism430is from an external water source.

In other exemplary embodiments of the invention, (not depicted) water extracted from treated air (e.g. by a dehumidifier) is delivered by mechanism430. According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention the dehumidifier is desiccant or thermoelectric based. According to these embodiments water provided by contributes to an increase in the evaporative cooling effect.

In some embodiments a temperature of output flow stream184is at least 100° C.; at least 110° C., least 120° C.; at least 130° C. least 140° C.; at least 150° C. least 160° C.; at least 170° C. least 180° C.; at least 190° C. least 200° C.; at least 210° C. least 220° C.; at least 230° C. least 240° C.; at least 250° C. least 260° C.; at least 270° C. least 100° C.; at least 280° C. least 290° C.; at least 300° C. or intermediate or greater temperatures. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments a pressure of output flow stream184is at least 1.9 atmospheres, at least 4 atmospheres, at least 5 atmospheres, at least 6 atmospheres, at least 7 atmospheres, at least 8 atmospheres, at least 9 atmospheres, at least 10 atmospheres or intermediate or greater pressures. In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, catalytic oxidizer480is dimensions similar to a pipe conducting stream18so there is no change in volume or pressure of the air as it passes from184to480.

In the depicted embodiment, catalytic oxidizer480discharges a stream484through a wide end486of funnel482. According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention the amount of VOCs in stream484relative to stream184is reduced by 90%; 95%; 99%; 99.5% or substantially 100% or intermediate percentages. According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention hypochlorous acid delivered by mechanism430and/or catalytic oxidizer480contribute to the reduction in VOC concentration. Alternatively or additionally, According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention the amount of active pathogens in stream184relative to ambient air118is reduced by 90%; 95%; 99%; 99.5% or substantially 100% or intermediate percentages. According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention the combination of pressure and temperature in 120 and/or 180 contributes to this reduction.

Exothermic reactions of VOCs in catalytic oxidizer480contribute to an increase in temperature. However, heat dissipation is always present (e.g. though walls of oxidizer480) and if VOC concentration is low enough temperature of stream484exiting oxidizer480can be lower than stream184entering oxidizer480.

The pressure of stream484is expected to be the same as stream184in oxidizer480and to return to ambient pressure as stream484exits an orifice in distal end486of exit conduit482.

According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention a heat exchanger and/or other heat recovery elements to reduce air temperature are provided to reduce a temperature of stream484. According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention as stream484approaches distal end486of exit conduit482air temperature is 30° C., 40° C., 50° C. or intermediate or lower temperatures. Alternatively or additionally, in some exemplary embodiments of the invention as stream484approaches distal end486of exit conduit482, relative humidity will be 100% or more with water condensing in conduit482. As stream484exits an orifice in486, water in the air will boil as a result of the reduction in pressure. In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, pressure tank180heats air in stream122to at least 200° C. within 0.5 seconds to 1 second. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments pressure tank180heats air in stream122to at least 350° C. within 1 second. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments pressure tank180has a retention time of at least 5 seconds. In some embodiments baffles in tank180contribute to an increase in retention time.

Additional Exemplary High Pressure System

FIG.1Bis simplified schematic representation of an air purification system, indicated generally as401, according to some exemplary embodiments of the invention.

Depicted exemplary air purification system401includes a compressor120and a pressure tank180providing an output flow stream184of heated pressurized air. In the depicted embodiment, compressor120draws in ambient air118, which carries one or more types of impurities. Compressor120produces a pressurized airstream122that is conveyed to pressure tank180.

According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention airstream122has a pressure of 1.9 atmospheres; 3 atmospheres; 4 atmospheres; 5 atmospheres; 6 atmospheres; 7 atmospheres; 8 atmospheres; 9 atmospheres; 10 atmospheres or intermediate pressures. In some embodiments airstream122has a pressure of 8 to 10 atmospheres. Although airstream122is depicted as an arrow, it is typically directed by a pipe or other conduit to pressure tank180.

In the depicted embodiment, system401includes a pressure tank180which receives output airstream122of pressurized air and heats the air while maintaining pressure as described above in the context ofFIG.1A. Pressure tank180outputs a pressurized heated airstream184. In some embodiments, a temperature of output airstream184is at least 200° C.

Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments a pressure of said output flow stream of pressurized air is at least 1.9 atmospheres or at least 4 atmospheres.

In the depicted embodiment, system401includes a catalytic oxidizer480positioned to receive the output flow stream184.

The main difference between systems400and401is the position of water delivery mechanism430. In system400, position of430is before480. In system401, position of430is after480.

Referring again toFIG.1B, in some embodiments system401includes a compressor120and a pressure tank180providing an initial output flow stream184of heated pressurized air and a catalytic oxidizer480positioned to receive said initial output flow stream184of pressurized air and produce a modified output flow stream484. In some embodiments system401includes a water delivery mechanism430configured and positioned to deliver water into said initial flow stream184of heated pressurized air as depicted inFIG.1A.

In some embodiments aqueous hypochlorous acid delivered at430after480contributes to a decrease in temperature of exit stream484. A reduction in temperature of exit stream484can be an advantage.

Alternatively, in some embodiments aqueous hypochlorous acid delivered at430before480is oxidized at480so the air in exit484contains less hypochlorous acid. A reduction in hypochlorous acid concentration in exit stream484can be an advantage.

As described above in the context ofFIG.1A, catalytic oxidizer contributes to a reduction of VOCs in airstream484relative to184.

In the depicted embodiment, system401includes a water delivery mechanism430configured and positioned to deliver water into output flow stream484of the system. In the depicted embodiment, the water delivery mechanism430is a sprayer. In other exemplary embodiments of the invention, the water delivery mechanism is a nebulizer or wick/evaporative device.

In the depicted embodiment, water delivered by water delivery mechanism430comprises condensate from compressor120. In the depicted embodiment, condensate from compressor120collects in a collection pan410and is pumped by a pump420through pipes419and421to water delivery mechanism430. Pipes419and/or421provide a channel of fluid communication. In some embodiments a UV lamp412shines on water in pan410. In some embodiments UV irradiation inactivates microorganisms in the water (e.g. bacteria and/or virus particles).

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, water delivered by water delivery mechanism430contains hypochlorous acid. According to these embodiments, the hypochlorous acid contributes to a reduction of VOCs in airstream484. In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, condensate collector pan410contains an electrolytic element414. According to these embodiments salt placed in water in pan410produces hypochlorous acid as a result of electrolysis. In other exemplary embodiments of the invention, hypochlorous acid is provided from an external source. In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, water delivered to stream484by mechanism430is converted to steam by heat energy in stream484. According to these embodiments, conversion of water to steam cools the air in stream484.

In other exemplary embodiments of the invention, (not depicted) water delivered by mechanism430is from an external water source.

In other exemplary embodiments of the invention, (not depicted) water extracted from treated air (e.g. by a dehumidifier) is delivered by mechanism430. According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention the dehumidifier is desiccant or thermoelectric based.

In some embodiments a temperature of output flow stream184is at least 100° C.; at least 110° C., least 120° C.; at least 130° C. least 140° C.; at least 150° C. least 160° C.; at least 170° C. least 180° C.; at least 190° C. least 200° C.; at least 210° C. least 220° C.; at least 230° C. least 240° C.; at least 250° C. least 260° C.; at least 270° C. least 100° C.; at least 280° C. least 290° C.; at least 300° C. or intermediate or greater temperatures. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments a pressure of output flow stream184is at least 1.9 atmospheres, at least 4 atmospheres, at least 5 atmospheres, at least 6 atmospheres, at least 7 atmospheres, at least 8 atmospheres, at least 9 atmospheres, at least 10 atmospheres or intermediate or greater pressures.

Again, exothermic reactions of VOCs in catalytic oxidizer480contribute to an increase in temperature. However, heat dissipation is always present (e.g. though walls of oxidizer480) and if VOC concentration is low enough temperature of stream484exiting oxidizer480can be lower than stream184entering oxidizer480.

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, pressure tank180heats air in stream122to at least 200° C. within 0.5 seconds to 1 second. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments pressure tank180heats air in stream122to at least 350° C. within 1 second. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments pressure tank180has a retention time of at least 5 seconds. In some embodiments baffles in tank180contribute to an increase in retention time.

Exemplary Low Pressure System

FIG.2Ais a simplified schematic representation of an air purification system, indicated generally as500, according to some further additional exemplary embodiments of the invention.

In the depicted embodiment, system500includes a dehumidifier520producing a dehumidified air stream522. Dehumidifier520receives ambient air510, which carries one or more types of impurities.

Depicted exemplary system500includes a heater with sufficient heating capacity to heat dehumidified airstream522to a temperature of 200° C. to 350° C. and output a heated air stream558A. According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention heated air stream558A has a temperature greater than 200° C.; greater than 225° C.; greater than 250° C.; greater than 275° C.; greater than 300° C.; greater than 325° C.; greater than 350° C. or intermediate or greater temperatures. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments of the invention heated air stream558A has a temperature less than 350° C.; less than 325° C.; less than 300° C.; less than 275° C.; less than 250° C.; less than 225° C.; less than 200° C.; less than 175° C.; or intermediate or lower temperatures.

In the depicted embodiment, the heater includes heating element556and/or heating elements552of denaturation chamber550. Some exemplary embodiments of the invention, the system include either556or552. In other exemplary embodiments of the invention, the system includes both556and552.

In some embodiments heating element556and/or552of the heater employ recovered heat from an outside source.

In the depicted embodiment, denaturation chamber550also includes insulation layer554and baffles559. In some embodiments insulation layer554contributes to denaturation efficiency of chamber550by reducing heat loss from heating elements552and/or556. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments baffles559contribute to denaturation efficiency of chamber550by increasing a length of a flow path in chamber550. In some embodiments an increase in flow path length contributes to an increase in residence time for air in the chamber. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments baffles559are constructed from a material with high heat conductivity such as copper. According to these embodiments increasing a heated surface area within denaturation chamber550contributes to an increase in efficiency of heat transfer to air entering the chamber.

In some embodiments system500includes an air to air heat exchanger540positioned and configured to use the heated air stream558B to preheat dehumidified airstream522prior to its arrival at heater (e.g.556and/or552).

In some embodiments system500includes an evaporative cooler560receiving the heated air stream542after said heated air stream has passed through said air to air heat exchanger and comprising a water source562. Water source562is depicted as a sprayer although nebulizers and/or wick evaporation elements are used in other embodiments of the invention.

Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments system500includes an evaporative cooler560A receiving the heated air stream558A. In some embodiments a water source (not depicted) in560A provides water which is evaporated by heat in stream558A, cooling the stream as it enters catalytic oxidizer580. In some embodiments a water source (not depicted) in an evaporative cooler560B provides water which is evaporated by heat in stream558B, cooling the stream as it leaves catalytic oxidizer580. According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention the water source(s) include(s) a sprayer and/or nebulizers and/or wick evaporation element. According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention water added at560and/or560A and/or560B evaporates at560and cools the air.

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, the same water is evaporated, condensed and evaporated a second time. For example, inFIG.1Awater added by430is evaporated by heat in stream184, condenses in482, then evaporates again as it passes through an orifice in486. As another example, inFIG.1B, water added by430is evaporated by heat in stream484, condenses in482, then evaporates again as it passes through an orifice in486

In some embodiments a flow of air from522to540through550,558A,558B,540,542and560is continuous so long as the system is “on”. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments evaporative cooler560restores the humidity level and/or temperature in exit air stream570to the level of humidity and/or temperature in ambient air510.

In the depicted embodiment, system500includes a catalytic oxidizer580positioned (i.e. between558A and558B) between an exit of heater (chamber550) and air to air heat exchanger540so that heated air stream558A flows through catalytic oxidizer580producing a VOC reduced hot air stream558B. In some embodiments exothermic reactions in580contribute to an increase in temperature of air stream558B relative to558A.

Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments system500includes a channel of fluid communication536routing water from a condensate collector pan530of dehumidifier520to water source562. According to these embodiments, a pump (not depicted) is configured to move the water through channel of fluid communication536to water source562. In the depicted embodiment, condensate pan530includes a UV light source532. In some embodiments UV radiation from light source532neutralizes biological contaminants in water collecting in the pan.

Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments pan530contains an electrolytic element534. According to these embodiments, salt placed in water in pan530produces hypochlorous acid as a result of electrolysis. In some embodiments hypochlorous acid delivered in water sprayed from water source562contributes to a reduction in VOCs in stream542entering evaporative cooler560.

In other exemplary embodiments of the invention, hypochlorous acid is delivered to water source562from an external source (not depicted).

Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the air to air heat exchanger540preheats the dehumidified air522from room temperature to at least 150° C. within 1 second. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments heater (denaturatiuon chamber)550heats dehumidified airstream522(after passing through540) to at least 200° C. within 0.5 seconds to 1 second. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments heater550heats dehumidified airstream522to at least 350° C. within 1 second. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments heated air stream558B passing through heat exchanger540is cooled within 1 second as it heats dehumidified airstream522. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments heater550has a retention time of at least 5 seconds. In some embodiments baffles559contribute to retention time. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the heated air stream558A output by heater550arrives at said heat exchanger540at least 2 seconds after exiting heater550(see558B).

Additional Exemplary Low Pressure Systems

FIG.2Bis a simplified schematic representation of an air purification system, indicated generally as501, according to some further additional exemplary embodiments of the invention. Depicted exemplary system501includes a fan512which takes in input air510and directs an initial air stream523to a heater556and/or552with sufficient heating capacity to heat airstream523to a temperature of 200° C. to 350° C. and output a heated air stream558A. According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention stream558A has temperatures as described above.

Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments a fan is positioned at542. According to these embodiments, the fan “pulls” air from heat exchanger540and this negative pressure is transmitted all the way back to523.

In some embodiments heating element556and/or552of the heater employ recovered heat from an outside source.

In the depicted embodiment, system501includes an air to air heat exchanger540positioned and configured to use heated air stream5586to preheat initial airstream523prior to its arrival at the heater556and/or552.

In the depicted embodiment, system501includes a cooling unit565positioned to further cool heated air stream542after it passes through air to air heat exchanger540to produce output air570.

According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention cooling unit565includes functional elements such as a heat pump and/or an active heat exchanger and/or a passive heat exchanger. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments cooling unit565employs cooling capability from an outside source such as a chiller. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments cooling unit565employs cold air from the surrounding to cool airstream542and/or566, and/or uses the ground as a heat sink to absorb heat from airstream542and/or566, and/or bubbles airstream542and/or566through water as a way to cool the air in the stream.

Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments system501includes an evaporative cooler560comprising a water source562as described hereinabove. In some embodiments the evaporative cooler is positioned to receive said heated air stream558A or5586(depicted schematically as560(A) and560(B))

In the depicted embodiment, evaporative cooler560is positioned to receive air stream566after it has passed through air to air heat exchanger540and/or cooling unit565. In some embodiments evaporative cooler560is provided as part of cooling unit565.

In the depicted embodiment, system501includes a catalytic oxidizer580positioned between an exit of the heater and air to air heat exchanger540so that heated air stream558A flows through catalytic oxidizer580producing a VOC reduced hot air stream558B.

In the depicted embodiment, system501includes a channel of fluid communication536routing water from a water reservoir531to water source562and a pump (not depicted) configured to move the water through channel of fluid communication536to water source562. In the depicted embodiment, an electrolytic element534in water reservoir531electrolyzes water to produce hypochlorous acid. Alternatively or additionally, a UV lamp532in water reservoir531provides UV radiation. In some embodiments hypochlorous acid and/or

UV irradiation contribute to a reduction in biologically active contaminants and/or VOCs in water in reservoir531. In other exemplary embodiments of the invention hypochlorous acid is added to water in reservoir531from an external source.

In some embodiments cooling unit565includes a heat pump which can remove moisture from the air. Optionally, water source562returns some or all of this moisture.

Other features of system501are as described for system500(FIG.2A).

FIG.2Cis a simplified schematic representation of an air purification system, indicated generally as502, according to some further additional exemplary embodiments of the invention. Depicted exemplary system502is identical to system501ofFIG.2Bexcept that:

Evaporative cooler560is positioned to receive said initial air stream as it exits fan512. In the depicted embodiment, condensate collector pan530replaces the water reservoir531ofFIG.2B. Condensate collector pan530collects condensed water produced by cooling unit565. As inFIG.2B, a pump, not depicted, moves the water through channel of fluid communication536to water source562. As inFIG.2A, purification of water in pan530is by UV light source532and/or by electrolytic element534which produces hypochlorous acid from salt in the water.

Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments a fan is positioned at542. According to these embodiments, the fan “pulls” air from heat exchanger540and this negative pressure is transmitted all the way back to523.

Systems501and/or502(FIG.2BandFIG.2Crespectively) are characterized by lower energy consumption than system500(FIG.2A). Much of the energy savings results from elimination of the dehumidifier520(FIG.2A). Cooling unit565(e.g. a heat pump) (FIG.2B) consumes less energy than a dehumidifier. Alternatively or additionally, fan512(FIG.2B) is smaller than dehumidifier520(FIG.2A) contributing to reduction in overall system size. Alternatively or additionally, system501can be implemented without water treatment.

On the other hand, implementation of system501without option water source562precludes use of hypochlorous acid and/or contributes to an increase in difficulty of achieving RH in570comparable to510. Alternatively or additionally, implementation of cooling unit565contributes to an increase in overall system size as the evaporative cooler560of system500(FIG.2A) is smaller than a heat pump.

Referring again toFIG.2BandFIG.2Cconcurrently, in some embodiments air to air heat exchanger540preheats the initial airstream523from room temperature to at least 150° C. within 1 second. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments heater550(denaturation chamber) heats the initial airstream to at least 200° C. within 0.5 seconds to 1 second. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments heater550heats the initial airstream523(after it passes through heat exchanger540) to at least 350° C. within 1 second. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments heated air stream558B passing through heat exchanger540is cooled within 1 second as it heats initial airstream523. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments heater550has a retention time of at least 5 seconds. Since retention time equals compartment size divided by flow rate, a retention time of at least 5 seconds indicates that the denaturation chamber has a size of at least 1388 cm3per cubic meter/hour of air in the initial air stream. In some embodiments baffles559contribute to an increase in retention time. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments heated air stream558A output by heater550arrives at heat exchanger540at least 2 seconds after exiting the heater (see558B).

First Exemplary Method

FIG.3is a simplified flow diagram of a method, indicated generally as600, according to some embodiments of the invention.

In the depicted embodiment, method600includes neutralizing610volatile organic compounds in a flow stream of heated air with a catalytic oxidizer and using620heat energy from the flow stream to convert water into steam. In some embodiments the heated air stream is pressurized. In some embodiments the stream of heated air is pressurized to at least 1.9 atmospheres. Stream184inFIG.1AandFIG.1Bas well as streams558A/558B and542inFIG.2Aare examples of stream treated using method600.

According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention610comes before620or620comes before610. In some embodiments, hypochlorous acid in the water further contributes to a reduction in VOCs in the flow stream.

Second Exemplary Method

FIG.4Ais a simplified flow diagram of an additional method, indicated generally as700, according to some embodiments of the invention.

In the depicted embodiment, method700includes dehumidifying710and heating air to a temperature of at least 200° C., reducing720a concentration of VOCs in the air by at least 90% and cooling730and re-humidifying the air.

As described above in the context ofFIGS.1A,1B and2, reducing720a concentration of VOCs in the air can be accomplished using a catalytic oxidizer (e.g.480;580) and/or an aqueous solution of hypochlorous acid.

Alternatively or additionally, as described above in the context ofFIGS.1A,1B and2, once air is heated to a temperature of at least 200° C., it may be retained at that temperature for 5 seconds or more (e.g. in pressure tank180ofFIGS.1A and1Bor denaturation chamber550ofFIG.2)

Method700typically employs ambient air at a temperature of 20° C. to 25° C. with 40% RH to 60% RH as an input at710. In some embodiments RH is lowered to 5% to 30% at710.

At730air is typically cooled to 15° C. to 25° C. and/or returned to RH of 40% to 60%.

Third Exemplary Method

FIG.4Bis a simplified flow diagram of an additional method, indicated generally as702, according to some embodiments of the invention.

In the depicted embodiment, method702includes humidifying712and heating air to a temperature of at least 200° C., reducing722a concentration of VOCs in the air by at least 90% and cooling732and dehumidifying the air.

As described above in the context ofFIGS.1A,1B and2A,2B and2C, reducing720a concentration of VOCs in the air can be accomplished using a catalytic oxidizer (e.g.480or580) and/or an aqueous solution of hypochlorous acid.

Alternatively or additionally, as described above in the context ofFIGS.1A,1B and2, once air is heated to a temperature of at least 200° C., it may be retained at that temperature for 5 seconds or more (e.g. in pressure tank180ofFIGS.1A and1Bor denaturation chamber550ofFIG.2)

Method702typically employs ambient air at a temperature of 20° C. to 25° C. with 40% RH to 60% RH as an input at712. In some embodiments RH is increased to 70% to 75% at712. At732air is typically cooled to 15° C. to 25° C. and/or returned to RH of 40% to 60%.

Fourth Exemplary Method

FIG.5is a simplified flow diagram of an additional method, indicated generally as800, according to some embodiments of the invention. Depicted exemplary method800includes dispersing810aqueous hypochlorous acid in an air stream with a temperature of at least 100° C. and routing820said air stream to a catalytic oxidizer.

Additional Exemplary Method

FIG.6is a simplified flow diagram of a method for air treatment, indicated generally as1200, according to some embodiments of the invention. Depicted exemplary method1200includes using1210heat energy from a flow stream of heated pressurized air to convert water into steam and dissolving1220the steam in the air to humidify it. In some embodiments the pressurized air is cooled by evaporation of water sprayed into it.

Additional Exemplary System

FIG.7is an exemplary air purification system indicated generally as2100.

In the depicted embodiment, system2100includes a compressor2120providing a first output flow2122A of pressurized air at a first temperature and a pressure tank2180providing a second output flow2184A of pressurized air at a second higher temperature. Compressor2120pressurizes ambient air2118.

Depicted exemplary system2100also includes an air to air heat exchanger2300designed and configured to heat first output flow2122A using heat from said second output flow2184A. As a result flow2184B is at a lower temperature than flow2184A and flow2122B is at a higher temperature than flow122A.

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, the temperature of2122B is 40° C. to 100° C. greater than2122A. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the temperature of2184B is 50° C. to 100° C. less than the temperature of2184A.

In some embodiments the first temperature of flow2122A is ambient temperature plus 30° C. to 50° C. In some of these embodiments dehumidification contributes to a decrease in the temperature of flow2122A.

In other exemplary embodiments of the invention, the first temperature of flow2122A is 120° C. to 180° C. at the exit of compressor2120. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the second temperature of flow2184A is 170° C.; 180° C.; 190° C.; 200° C.; 210° C.; 220° C.; 230° C.; 240° C.; 250° C. or intermediate or higher temperatures. According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention flow2122A has a pressure of 1.9 atmospheres; 3 atmospheres; 4 atmospheres; 5 atmospheres; 6 atmospheres; 7 atmospheres; 8 atmospheres; 9 atmospheres; 10 atmospheres or intermediate pressures. In some embodiments flow2122has a pressure of 8 to 10 atmospheres. Although flow2122is depicted as an arrow, it is typically directed by a pipe or other conduit to pressure tank2180. In the depicted embodiment, compressor2120draws in ambient air2118, which carries one or more types of impurities (For example virus particles and/or bacteria).

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, the air to air heat exchanger2300preheats pressurized air2122A from room temperature to at least 150° C.; 160° C.; 170° C.; 180° C. or intermediate or higher temperatures within 1 second. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments the pressure tank2180heats pressurized airstream2122B to at least 200° C. within 0.5 seconds to 1 second. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments pressure tank2180heats pressurized airstream2122B to at least 350° C. within 1 second. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments heated air stream2184A passing through heat exchanger2300is cooled within 1 second as it heats pressurized airstream2122A. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments pressure tank2180has a retention time of at least 5 seconds. In some embodiments baffles in pressure tank2180contribute to an increase in retention time. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments heated air stream2184A output by pressure tank2180arrives at heat exchanger2300at least 2 seconds after it exits tank2180.

Further Additional Exemplary Method

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention there is provided a method including pressurizing airstreams directed to an air to air heat exchanger in an air treatment system. According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention the air is pressurized to a pressure of at least 1.9 atmospheres, at least 4 atmospheres, at least 6 atmospheres, at least 8 atmospheres, at least 10 atmospheres, at least 12 atmospheres, or intermediate or higher pressures.

Further Additional Exemplary System

FIG.8is simplified schematic representation of an air purification system, indicated generally as4100, according to some exemplary embodiments of the invention.

Depicted exemplary system100includes An air purification system comprising a compressor4120providing an output flow4122of pressurized air to a pressure tank4180. Tank4180receives the air and heats it while maintaining pressure. In the depicted embodiment, compressor4120compresses ambient air4118.

According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention flow4122has a pressure of 1.9 atmospheres; 3 atmospheres; 4 atmospheres; 5 atmospheres; 6 atmospheres; 7 atmospheres; 8 atmospheres; 9 atmospheres; 10 atmospheres or intermediate pressures. In some embodiments flow4122has a pressure of 8 to 10 atmospheres. Although flow4122is depicted as an arrow, it is typically directed by a pipe or other conduit to pressure tank4180. In the depicted embodiment, compressor4120draws in ambient air4118, which carries one or more types of impurities (For example virus particles and/or bacteria).

In the depicted embodiment, the system includes a release manifold4185having a partially closed end4186including an orifice4188. In the depicted embodiment, manifold4185is in fluid communication with pressure tank4180.

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, orifice4188obviates a need for an expansion valve on tank4180. In some embodiments orifice4188contributes to reliability of the system because it has no moving parts. Optionally, orifice4188contributes to a reduction in cost of producing and/or maintaining the system. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments a diameter of orifice4188governs flow rate of exit stream4184out of the system.

Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments exit of air stream4184via orifice4188causes a reduction in pressure and reduction in temperature. According to these embodiments, heat energy is transformed to kinetic energy as volume increases. According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention exit of stream4184through orifice4188is to ambient conditions or to a climate control.

In some embodiments a temperature of output flow stream4184as it exits tank4180is at least 100° C.; at least 110° C., least 120° C.; at least 130° C. least 140° C.; at least 150° C. least 160° C.; at least 170° C. least 180° C.; at least 190° C. least 200° C.; at least 210° C. least 220° C.; at least 230° C. least 240° C.; at least 250° C. least 260° C.; at least 270° C. least 100° C.; at least 280° C. least 290° C.; at least 300° C. or intermediate or greater temperatures. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments a pressure of output flow stream4184as it exits tank4180is at least 1.9 atmospheres; at least 3 atmospheres; at least 4 atmospheres, at least 5 atmospheres, at least 6 atmospheres, at least 7 atmospheres, at least 8 atmospheres, at least 9 atmospheres, at least 10 atmospheres or intermediate or greater pressures.

In some embodiments manifold4185cools the stream to 35° C., 40° C., 45°, 50° C., 60° C., 70° C., 80° C., or intermediate or lower temperatures. In some embodiments cooling includes injection of water into the stream.

In some embodiments stream4184expands as it passes through orifice188. Optionally, expansion causes water dissolved in stream4184to evaporate contributing to an increase in relative humidity level in the air. In some embodiments this increase in relative humidity contributes to cooling of the air. According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention the relative humidity in stream4184just after it leaves orifice4188is 40% to 60%.

According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention a diameter of manifold4185is smaller or larger than tank4180. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments there is an additional orifice (not depicted) between tank4180and manifold4185to create two expansion stages. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments manifold4185maintains the same pressure tank4180and expansion of stream4184occurs only after exit from orifice4188at the manifold end. In some embodiments manifold size is zero and orifice4188is provided in a wall of tank1480.

Further Additional Exemplary Method

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, there is provided a method including routing a pressurized air stream at a temperature of at least 30° C. through a fixed diameter orifice. Optionally, passage through the orifice cools the stream. According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention the temperature of the stream prior to passage through the orifice is 35° C., 40° C., 45°, 50° C., 60° C., 70° C., 80° C., or intermediate or lower temperatures. In some embodiments water injected into the air in the manifold contributes to a temperature reduction. Alternatively or additionally, according to various exemplary embodiments of the invention passage through the orifice cools the stream to 34° C., 32° C., 30° C., 29° C., 27° C., 25° C., 20° C., 18° C. or lesser or intermediate temperatures.

Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments water in the air stream vaporizes as during expansion. In some embodiments vaporization helps control humidity level and/or lower temperature.

Exemplary Flow Considerations

Systems400,401and500and/or methods600and700are scalable to different use scenarios. For example, purification of air in a small space, such as the interior of a car, might employ a flow rate of 12 m3/h (200 L/M). For a large space, such as a lobby area of a building, a dining hall, a factory or a transportation terminal (e.g. airport or train station), purification of air might employ a flow rate of 10000 m3/h of air.

In addition, to the total volume being treated, other factors contribute to selection of flow rate. For example, a municipal bus during rush hour might require a higher flow rate than the same bus at off peak hours when it is only 20% occupied.

Exemplary Insulation Considerations

According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention insulation covers various pipes and/or conduits and/or pressure tank180and/or oxidizer480or580in the relevant system. In some embodiments insulation contributes to an increase in heat retention.

Exemplary Theoretical Considerations

According to some exemplary embodiments of the invention described hereinabove, denaturation of proteins in biological contaminants inactivates them.

Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments heat and/or pressure changes the morphology of allergens so the immune system doesn't recognize them.

Three factors contribute to denaturation effectiveness: temperature, time, and pressure. There are synergies between these three factors so that one can be reduced while increasing another to maintain denaturation effectiveness.

For example, when air reaches “working parameters” (typically defined in terms of pressure and temperature) a certain amount of time is needed to achieve a desired degree of denaturation. In some embodiments valves are used to maintain a desired pressure.

Residence time is determined by the size of a compartment within the system.

Pressurized systems (as depicted inFIG.1AandFIG.1B) shorten the time needed to achieve a desired degree of denaturation at a given temperature. Because the air is pressurized, the size of the chamber needed for treatment is reduced. For example, treating 10 cubic meters of ambient air at 2.5 atmospheres requires a pressurized chamber of only 4 cubic meters. In addition, the increase in pressure contributes to a reduction in required residence time in the chamber. The reduction in required residence time contributes to a further reduction in the required chamber size.

However, air compression is characterized by a high energy cost. As a result pressurized systems (as depicted inFIG.1AandFIG.1B) can cost more in terms of capital expenditure and/or operating costs than non-pressurized systems (as depicted inFIG.2Aand/orFIG.2B) with similar capacity.

A non-pressurized system (as depicted inFIG.2Aand/orFIG.2B) working at the same temperature as a pressurized system (as depicted inFIG.1AandFIG.1B) compensates the absence of high pressure with a longer treatment time.

If the longer treatment time is achieved with increased residence time in a treatment compartment, compartment size will need to increase to accommodate the required air volume at the operational flow rate.

However, non-pressurized systems (of the type depicted inFIGS.2A and/or2B) are less expensive in terms of operational energy so a non-pressurized system will cost less in terms of capital expenditure and/or operational cost.

Weighing these considerations against one another, small pressurized systems with low air throughput, such as home systems, are feasible. The difference in total cost is negligible (though high in percentage) and is balanced by the savings in space for installation.

Large systems with high air throughput, such as commercial systems (e.g. factories, schools, office buildings, hospitals), are more amenable to implementation of non-pressurized systems (as depicted inFIG.2Aand/orFIG.2B). For these large scale systems, the cost savings is high in both absolute terms and as a percentage, and space for installation is less problematic.

Exemplary Use Scenario: Commercial Airliner

Commercial airliners hold hundreds of people in close proximity to one another for hours. During this time, air in the passenger cabin is recycled many times and spread across the cabin so one sick person coughing or sneezing can spread airborne pathogens, such as viruses throughout the passenger cabin. Because commercial airliners fly at high altitudes, ambient pressure outside the aircraft is below 1 atmosphere and ambient temperature outside the aircraft is typically below freezing. The passenger cabin is typically pressurized to one atmosphere and heated to 15° C. to 20° C. for passenger comfort and safety.

Unpressurized compartments (e.g. cargo hold) in an airliner are un-heated. According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention hot air streams are discharged into unpressurized compartments and/or outside the aircraft. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments a small amount of cold air from unpressurized compartments and/or outside the aircraft is mixed with heated sterilized air produced by the system to cool it prior to return to the passenger cabin. In light of these considerations, implementation of an unpressurized system (as depicted inFIG.2Aand/orFIG.2B) in the context of a commercial airliner is believed feasible. As discussed above systems of this type are amenable to high throughput implementations.

Currently, air the climate control system is drawn from one place and returned at many places (typically in small ceiling mounted vents over each individual passenger seat). In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, the direction of airflow in the system is reversed. According to these embodiments of the invention, contaminated air is drawn out of the passenger compartment through the small ceiling mounted vents over each individual passenger seat and treated air is delivered from one, or a few, large vents.

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, a version of low pressure system500(FIG.2A) or501(FIG.2B) is employed in an airliner. For example, in some embodiments only enough heat to activate catalytic oxidizer580is applied by heating elements552and/or556. A water delivery mechanism562positioned at560A delivers water containing hypochlorous acid. The hypochlorous acid neutralizes airborne pathogens (e.g. COVID 19 virions). The hypochlorous acid is deactivated by catalytic oxidizer580so that airstream5586is substantially pathogen free. In some embodiments this system employs the reversed airflow strategy described above.

Exemplary Use Scenario: Office Building

Many modern buildings are closed environments, with windows that do not open and few openings to the outside environment.

During office hours, commercial buildings are filled with many people.

Due to low replacement of air, contaminants, both biological and gases released by VOCs linger and accumulate within the building.

In light of these considerations, implementation of an unpressurized system (as depicted inFIG.2A) in the context of a commercial office building is believed feasible. As discussed above systems of this type are amenable to high throughput implementations.

It is expected that during the life of this patent many compressor types and pump types and water delivery mechanism types will be developed and the scope of the invention is includes all such new technologies a priori.

Specifically, a variety of numerical indicators have been utilized. It should be understood that these numerical indicators could vary even further based upon a variety of engineering principles, materials, intended use and designs incorporated into the various embodiments of the invention. Additionally, components and/or actions ascribed to exemplary embodiments of the invention and depicted as a single unit may be divided into subunits. Conversely, components and/or actions ascribed to exemplary embodiments of the invention and depicted as sub-units/individual actions may be combined into a single unit/action with the described/depicted function.

Alternatively, or additionally, features used to describe a method can be used to characterize an apparatus and features used to describe an apparatus can be used to characterize a method.

It should be further understood that the individual features described hereinabove can be combined in all possible combinations and sub-combinations to produce additional embodiments of the invention. The examples given above are exemplary in nature and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention which is defined solely by the following claims. Each recitation of an embodiment of the invention that includes a specific feature, part, component, module or process is an explicit statement that additional embodiments of the invention not including the recited feature, part, component, module or process exist.

Alternatively or additionally, various exemplary embodiments of the invention exclude any specific feature, part, component, module, process or element which is not specifically disclosed herein.

Specifically, the invention has been described in the context of air purification systems but might also be used in the context of humidity control systems.

The terms “include”, and “have” and their conjugates as used herein mean “including but not necessarily limited to”.