Abstract:
An aeration and microbial reactor system for use in decontaminating water including a housing adapted to float and/or submerged within the medium such that a top portion thereof remains adjacent a top surface of the contaminated water while the bioreactor containing inoculated carrier media is attached below. Beneficial microbial populations thrive and spread throughout the liquid medium, and consume or fix the contaminant such that the contaminant is removed from the water.

Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application is a Continuation-In-Part Application of Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 12/982,669 filed Dec. 30, 2010 entitled “FLOATING BIOREACTOR SYSTEM”, Attorney Docket No. PGI-101, which is related to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/317,715 filed Mar. 26, 2010 entitled “FLOATING BIOREACTOR SYSTEM”, Attorney Docket No. PGI-101-P, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, and claims any and all benefits to which it is entitled therefrom. This Application is also related to PCT Patent Application No. PCT/US11/58139 filed Oct. 27, 2011 entitled “FLOATING BIOREACTOR SYSTEM”, Attorney Docket No. PGI-101-PCT, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, and claims any and all benefits to which it is entitled therefrom. 
     
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    The present invention pertains to an aeration device and microbial bioreactor system for use in a liquid medium. More specifically, the invention relates to floating and/or submerged bioreactor systems that can be adapted to applications for treatment of water in aquariums and domestic septic systems, as well as water, leachate and industrial waste in rivers, streams and creeks. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0003]    Subsurface aeration seeks to release bubbles at the bottom of the pond and allow them to rise by the force of gravity. Diffused aeration systems utilize bubbles to aerate as well as mix the pond. Water displacement from the expulsion of bubbles can cause a mixing action to occur, and the contact between the water and the bubble will result in an oxygen transfer. 
         [0004]    Bioreactors are also designed to treat sewage and wastewater. In the most efficient of these systems there is a supply of free-flowing, chemically inert media that acts as a receptacle for the bacteria that breaks down the raw sewage. Aerators supply oxygen to the sewage and media further accelerating breakdown. In the process, the liquids Biochemical Oxygen Demand BOD is reduced sufficiently to render the contaminated water fit for reuse. The biosolids are collected for further processing or dried and used as fertilizer, agricultural feed, etc. 
         [0005]    Subsurface aeration, bioreactors and most likely a combination of both are commonly employed to treat sewage water, recycle wastewater and other water treatment applications both industrially or domestically. 
         [0006]    The need exists for adaptation of a combination aerator and bioreactor for use in an enclosed system such as an aquarium or a domestic septic tank system. 
       SUMMARY OF INVENTION 
       [0007]    The present invention relates to a system that consists of an apparatus for aerating and circulating a liquid medium and at the same time an apparatus for the continuous microbial bio-remediation of organic waste in rivers, sewers and other waste laden environments utilizing in-situ microbial seeding. 
         [0008]    The present invention is a microbe bio-reactor designed to work in open water such as lakes and ponds and in lagoons and tanks to clean up water biologically. It can clean tip water in a short amount of time and will be energy efficient. It works by having imbedded microbes in, and these are stores in its main reactor chamber that is a slotted pipes. 
         [0009]    The core of its main reactor chamber is a perforated hose. Air is pumped into the perforated hose and is released all along the pipe. The air is diffused in the water surrounding this and this causes the water to rise and it circulate the microbe with the dirty water. This feeds the microbes imbedded in the media and this causes the microbes to replicate and thus releasing billions of microbes every second. As the microbes are release upward it is oxygenated greatly by the main hose diffusers and this causes the microbes to multiply even much more. 
         [0010]    At the top of the water, the water is pushed out and is mixed causing even more microbial growth. At the surface of the water, it again is exposed to the atmosphere and is not only evenly spread out, it is again oxygenated and thus multiplying organisms even more. 
         [0011]    The microbes create an even larger zone of air and/or oxygen transfer to the water, thus facilitating even more microbial growth. Thus, all along the water flow cycle, the present invention generates even more microbes in the expense of minimum electricity usage of the approximate range of 2 HP. 
         [0012]    As the water is pulled down under the tank or water body, it pulls down not only microbes but increases dissolved oxygen such that microbial growth at the bottom of the tank or water body is greatly enhanced. Thus, water is cleaned and revived. In addition, the process removes hydrogen sulfide present in the contaminated water or other liquid medium. The process also reduces methane, a green house gas, formation to help preserve the environment. 
         [0013]    An advantage of the present invention is that biosolids and/or sludge handling is eliminated. The biosolids are eaten up and consumed by the microbes, thus eliminating the need for sludge and biosolids handling equipment, disposal, etc. In addition, having the microbes on the surface of the water increases the efficiency of oxygen transfer in the bioreactor. 
         [0014]    Another object of the present invention is the very small amounts of electricity consumed due to high efficiency which helps to reduce energy consumption. 
         [0015]    Another object of the present invention is that the biosafety level one microbes can inhabit the micropores in the rocks and river beds of the streams and keep on improving even after the bioreactor is disengaged although the effect is much better to leave it in place. 
         [0016]    Another object of the present invention is that even without expensive membrane filters, the bioreactor can be applied to sewage with results that clean waste water to bod less than 5 or less than 1 and then it is percolated and the treated waste water can recharge ground water. 
         [0017]    Yet another object of the present invention is to provide systems and methods to clean aquariums without using chemicals which can be harmful to fish. Also, the present invention helps to reduce odors due to dirty aquariums. Moreover, the present invention helps to reduce the need to clean aquariums due the biofilm built up on the internal surfaces. Consequently, the present invention helps to reduce labor cost, water cost and other costs related to frequent cleaning of aquariums and other fish habitats. 
         [0018]    Yet another object of the present invention is to provide systems and methods to clean domestic septic systems efficiently to reduce the need to remove built up sludge to a frequency of not more than once every 6 months to 5 years. The present invention also helps to reduce odor from septic tanks. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0019]      FIG. 1A  is a representative upper front perspective view of floating bioreactor system  100  of the present invention. 
           [0020]      FIG. 1B  is a representative graph showing the relationship between Standard Oxygen Transfer Rate [SOTR] and various Total Dissolved Solids [TDS] values of the liquid medium. 
           [0021]      FIG. 1C  is a representative graph showing the relationship between Standard Aeration Efficiency [SAE] and various Total Dissolved Solids [TDS] values of the liquid medium. 
           [0022]      FIG. 1D  is a representative graph showing the relationship between Standard Aeration Efficiency [SAE] and various Salt Concentration [TDS] values of the liquid medium. 
           [0023]      FIG. 1E  is a representative graph showing the relationship between Standard Aeration Efficiency [SAE] and various Salt Concentration [TDS] values of the liquid medium. 
           [0024]      FIG. 2  is a representative upper front perspective view of an in situ bioreactor container  200  of floating bioreactor system  100  of the present invention. 
           [0025]      FIG. 3  is a representative view showing the method of application of the floating bioreactor system  100  of the present invention. 
           [0026]      FIG. 4A  is a representative view showing one method of adaption of an alternative embodiment, viz. aquarium bioreactor and aerator system  400 . 
           [0027]      FIG. 4B  is a representative side view of bioreactor and aerator combo  401  of aquarium bioreactor and aerator system  400 . 
           [0028]      FIG. 4C  is a representative side partially exposed view of bioreactor and aerator combo  401  of aquarium bioreactor and aerator system  400 . 
           [0029]      FIG. 5A  is a representative view showing one method of adaption of an alternative embodiment, viz. home septic bioreactor and aerator system  500 . 
           [0030]      FIG. 5B  is a representative side view of home septic unit  501  of home septic bioreactor and aerator system  500 . 
           [0031]      FIG. 5C  is a representative side partially exposed view of home septic unit  501  of home septic bioreactor and aerator system  500 . 
           [0032]      FIG. 6A  is a representative view showing one method of adaption of an alternative embodiment, viz. aero dynamic mixer bioreactor and aerator system  600 . 
           [0033]      FIG. 6B  is a representative side view of aero dynamic mixer  601  of aero dynamic mixer bioreactor and aerator system  600 . 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
       [0034]    The description that follows is presented to enable one skilled in the art to make and use the present invention, and is provided in the context of a particular application and its requirements. Various modifications to the disclosed embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principals discussed below may be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. Therefore, the invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments disclosed, but the invention is to be given the largest possible scope which is consistent with the principals and features described herein. 
       DEFINITION OF TERMS 
       [0035]    Standard Oxygen Transfer Rate [SOTR]—Pounds of oxygen transferred to water per hour [lbs O 2 /hour]. SOTR is measured in clean water when the dissolved oxygen [DO] concentration is zero at all points in the water volume, the water temperature is 20° C., at a barometric pressure of 1.00 atm [101 kPa]. 
         [0036]    Standard Aeration Efficiency [SAE]—Standard Oxygen Transfer Rate per unit total power input. SAE is typically expressed as the pounds of oxygen transferred to the water per hour per HP [lbs O 2 /hour/HPwire], and is sometimes referred to as SAE Wire. SAE is used as a measure of how efficiently an aerator is transferring oxygen. 
         [0037]      FIG. 1A  is a representative upper front perspective view of floating bioreactor system  100  of the present invention. Floating bioreactor system  100  of the present invention has a housing  102 . In one embodiment, housing  102  is made of fiberglass that is strong enough to support the weight of the entire floating bioreactor system  100  without the assistance of buoyance and is not prone to corrosion, degradation in the presence of water and/or other liquid medium, including salt water or waste water with other chemicals. Housing  102  of floating bioreactor system  100  can be assembled by nuts and bolts or other optimal mechanical fastening means. As shown in  FIG. 1A , a plurality of floats  120  are attached to housing  102  on both sides. The main function of floats  120  is to lend buoyance to the entire floating bioreactor system  100  such that the present invention is able to float and maintain an appropriate buoyance level within the liquid medium. Optionally, floats  120  are inflatable or otherwise adjustable so buoyancy and waterline of the overall housing  102  can be adjusted. 
         [0038]    As shown in  FIG. 1A , blower  104  is placed on top of housing  102 . In one embodiment, blower  104  is a 1.75 kW regenerative blower which is an ideal solution for moving large volume of air at lower pressures or near vacuum. The main function of blower  104  is to be an air source for the aeration process of the present invention  100 . Using blower  104  can be one of the most cost effective methods for producing pressure or vacuum. Filter  106  cleans particulate from the air that goes in and through blower  104  to avoid dust or oil in contact with diffuser grids  130 . 
         [0039]    As best shown in  FIG. 1A , blower  104  is connected to diffuser grids  130  via diverter  150  and subsequently hoses  152 . Hoses  152  are attached to diverter  150  to receive the necessary air for diffuser grids  130 . In one embodiment, diverter  150  spreads the air generated from blower  104  evenly to diffuser grids  130  via a plurality of hoses  152 . The main function of diffuser grids  130  is to create aeration within the liquid medium that the present invention  100  is trying to clean. In alternative embodiments, multiple diffuser grids  130  can be installed and connected to blower  104  to increase overall effectiveness and scale of cleaning power of floating bioreactor system  100  of the present invention. 
         [0040]    For efficient aeration system, whether it is an aeration system or device splashes, sprays, or diffuses air, an important factor is how much surface area it creates. The surface area is where water/liquid medium contacts air and where oxygen transfer takes place. Smaller bubble size results in more surface area, which is why fine bubble aeration devices are superior in oxygen transfer than coarse bubble aerators. To maximize aeration efficiency in a system, an aerator must create fine bubbles while expending a minimum amount of energy. The main purpose is to have a high SOTR and SAE for the aeration system. 
         [0041]    In one embodiment, there are a number of commercially available diffuser grids  130  that can be incorporated in the floating bioreactor system  100  of the present invention. Most of these models resemble what has been disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,811,164, issued Sep. 22, 1998 to Mitchell entitled “AERATION PIPE AND METHOD OF MAKING SAME”, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. One of the commercial models is Aero-Tube™ diffuser grids. One of the most important structure for the extremely high performance and efficiency of diffuser grids  130  is the adaptation of hose segments  132  which, through a unique combination of technique and raw material, creates numerous micro-pores  134  throughout the length of hose segments  132 . These micro-pores  134  create tiny air bubbles and hence high surface area, which allows the efficient transfer of air into the water. In one embodiment, diffuser grids  130  are made up of hose segments  132 . Preferably, hose segments  132  are made from thermoset polymer particles in a matrix of thermoplastic binder material, which may be made according to a method described in the &#39;164 patent. 
         [0042]    In one embodiment, the specifications of hose segments  132  are in the approximate range as follows: Outside Diameter, 1.00 inch (2.54 cm); Inside Diameter, 0.500 inch (1.27 cm); Wall Thickness, 0.250 inch (0.635 cm); Weight, 0.220 lbs per foot (0.327 kg per meter); Roll Length, 200 ft. (60.98 meters); Roll Weight, 44 lbs. (19.9 kg); Burst Pressure, 80 PSI (5.5 bar). 
         [0043]    Due to the number of pores created during the manufacturing process, there is little resistance created when pushing air through hose segments  132 . Resistance equals energy demand hence diffuser grids  130  uses significantly less horsepower when compared with traditional methods of aeration such as bubblers, paddlewheels, aspirators, less efficient tubing, etc. Moreover, diffuser grids  130  bare tiny pore size which creates bubbles with extremely small diameters. The smaller the gas bubbles, the more efficiently they transfer oxygen into water. Small bubbles also take longer to rise once they are introduced into water. Slower rising, small-diameter bubbles mean more contact with the water and a much higher rate of oxygen transfer. By creating significantly smaller bubbles, more efficiently, diffuser grids  130  are able to deliver high rates of oxygen transfer [SOTR] and energy efficiency [SAE]. 
         [0044]    As shown in  FIG. 1A , bioreactor pump  108  is also mounted on housing  102 . In one embodiment, bioreactor pump  108  is a relatively less powerful pump in the range of about 60 W that supplies air to the in situ bioreactor container  200 . Bioreactor hose  140  that connects bioreactor  200  also transfers air from bioreactor pump  108  to the bioreactor  200  for the biocarrier media therein. Air and nutrients are supplied to the microbial population which are located within the biocarrier media. In one embodiment, bioreactor  200  is secured at the bottom of housing  102  and underneath diffuser grids  130  to provide continuous in-situ addition of beneficial microbes directly within an environment to be treated thereby permitting optimized mineralization of waste being treated as well as acclimation of the microbes to such waste. 
         [0045]      FIG. 1B  is a representative graph showing the relationship between Standard Oxygen Transfer Rate [SOTR] and various Total Dissolved Solids [TDS] values of the liquid medium of both commercial diffuser grids  130  and traditional aeration device like paddle wheel. As best shown in  FIG. 1B , diffuser grids  130  performs better than paddle wheel throughout the range of TDS from 0 to approximately 35,0000 mg/L. This demonstrates that using diffuser grids  130  is an effective, improved method for aeration [higher SOTR]. 
         [0046]      FIG. 1C  is a representative graph showing the relationship between Standard Aeration Efficiency [SAE] and various Total Dissolved Solids [TDS] values of the liquid medium of both commercial diffuser grids  130  and traditional aeration device like paddle wheel. As best shown in  FIG. 1C , diffuser grids  130  performs better than paddle wheel throughout the range of TDS from 0 to approximately 35,0000 mg/L. Proofing that using diffuser grids  130  is a much more cost efficient method for aeration [higher SAE]. 
         [0047]      FIG. 1D  is a representative graph showing the relationship between Standard Aeration Efficiency [SAE] and various Salt Concentration [TDS] values of the liquid medium for most common aeration methods including Aero-Tube™.  FIG. 1E  is a representative graph showing the relationship between Standard Aeration Efficiency [SAE] and various Salt Concentration [TDS] values of the liquid medium for most common aeration methods including Aero-Tube™. An internationally recognized engineering firm conducted performance tests on the aeration tube in both fresh and salt water environments. In a controlled study, they compared an airlift aerator utilizing Aero-Tube™ technology with an equal horsepower paddle wheel and brush paddle wheel aerator, two of the most popular aeration technologies on the market today. 
         [0048]    Aero-Tube™ performed extremely well in all areas, including its ability to transfer oxygen to water, expressed in terms of a standard oxygen rate [SOTR], and its efficiency in terms of pounds of oxygen per kilowatt-hour [the standard aerator efficiency or SAE Wire, rate]. 
         [0049]    In the fresh water testing, the Aero-Tube™ aerator exceeded the paddle wheel&#39;s energy efficiency [SAE Wire] by up to 2.6 times. 
         [0050]    Aero-Tube™ aeration tubing performed even better in the salt water test. As the density of the water&#39;s salt content increased [from 5,000 mg to 35,000 mg], the oxygen advantage of the Aero-Tube™ system steadily rose. At 35,000 mg/L NaCl, the energy efficiency of Aero-Tube™ aerator was as much as 4.2 times the efficiency of the paddle wheel. 
         [0051]    While performance of diffuser grids  130  may vary among different brands and models, in general diffuser grids  130  are considered one of the most effective and cost efficient aeration devices because nearly all of the energy used to deliver the air that goes through hoses  140  and hose segments  132  goes directly into the water/liquid medium. A paddle wheel, wastes energy by throwing water/liquid medium into the air to pick up oxygen. 
         [0052]      FIG. 2  is a representative upper front perspective view of an in situ bioreactor tube or container  200  of floating bioreactor system  100  of the present invention. In summary, in situ bioreactor is a bio reactor paired with an aeration device such as a microbubble generator. The purpose of the microbubble generator is to generate highly oxygenated water which infuses microbes with the nutrients required to achieve very high levels of process and treatment effectiveness and efficiency. The accelerated regeneration of microbes accelerates the natural mineralization process, reducing treatment cycle times and virtually eliminating organic contaminant levels. 
         [0053]    As best shown in  FIG. 2 , in one embodiment, in situ bioreactor tube container  200  has an external slotted pipe structure  220  which has lots of inner bores  220 . Within each inner bore  220 , enough microbial media  210  should be loaded. In one embodiment, there is aeration tubing  230  embedded within the slotted pipe structure  220 . One end of aeration tubing  230  is connected to bioreactor hose  140  and subsequently to bioreactor pump  108 . When the bioreactor pump  108  is on, it supplies air through aeration tubing  230  which tiny air bubbles are created. Air bubbles diffuse from the internal to the external surfaces of bioreactor  200  and ultimately disperse to the surrounding water/liquid medium via numerous inner bores  220  where microbial media  210  are contained. The air bubbles supply both oxygen and nutrients to microbial media  210  and eventually disperse them into the surrounding water/liquid medium. 
         [0054]      FIG. 3  is a representative view showing the method of application of the floating bioreactor system  100  of the present invention. As shown in  FIG. 3 , floating bioreactor system  100  of the present invention is installed and immersed in the treated liquid medium  310 . The waste  320  is received via inlet pipe  312  and is discharged out through the outlet  314  after treatment. In one embodiment, housing  102  is suspended and floating with the assistance of floats  120  on both side. As best shown in  FIG. 3 , when the floating bioreactor system  100  is turned on, bioreactor  200  disperses microbes  360  which are originally contained in its inner bores  220 . The tiny air bubbles  350  generated from aeration tubing  230  will further disperse microbes  360  out of the system while continuously supplying oxygen and nutrients to the microbes  360 . Eventually, the microbes  360  dispersed from bioreactor  200  will establish themselves as the dominant species within the liquid medium  310  being treated. 
         [0055]    While at the same time, tiny air bubbles  350  are generated continuously from diffuser grids  130 . The fine air bubbles  350  are more readily absorbed into water per volume of air compared to coarse air bubbles. Consequently, oxygen content is much increased in the treated liquid medium  310 . Moreover, the low head-loss of diffuser grids  130  combined with bioreactor  200  leads to a high efficacy for the microbial population to the liquid medium being treated. 
         [0056]    As shown in  FIG. 3 , microbial population  360  is dispersed from bioreactor  200  and move vertically away from the bioreactor  200  towards diffuser grids  130 . Air bubbles  350  released not only support the life of the microbes  360  but also help evenly dispense microbes  360  out to the liquid medium for treatment  310 . As best shown in  FIG. 3 , the combination of diffuser grids  130  and bioreactor  200  and more importantly their relative orientation in floating bioreactor system  100  of the present invention greatly enhances the efficiency and effectiveness in treating liquid medium  310 . 
         [0057]    It will be understood that biosolids and/or sludge handling requirements are eliminated in the present invention. The biosolids are eaten up and consumed by the microbes, thus eliminating the need for sludge and biosolids handling equipment, disposal, etc. In addition, having the microbes on the surface of the water increases the efficiency of oxygen transfer in the floating bioreactor system  100 . 
         [0058]    Test Results 1: 
       Test Laboratory: Robinsons Land Corporation; Analysis No.: WA-10-217 
       [0059]    Model: BioCleaner™ 1200 m3 system [16 HP] 
       Test Date Sample—Oct. 18, 2010; Analysis—Oct. 18-23, 2010 
     Sample Source: STP-Main Mall 
     Quantitative Water Analysis 
       [0060]      
         [0000]    
       
         
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                 DENR Effluent 
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                 Standard for 
               
               
                 Sample Identification 
                 Influent 
                 Effluent 
                 Inland Water 
                 Method of 
               
               
                 (Lab. Sample Nos.) 
                 (S10-WA-506) 
                 (S10-WA-506) 
                 Class C - “NPI” 
                 Analysis 
               
               
                   
               
             
             
               
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                 pH, as received 
                 6.41 
                 7.26 
                 6.5-9.0 
                 Glass Electrode 
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Method 
               
               
                 Temperature, ° C. 
                 27.6 
                 28.3 
                   
                 Mercury-Filled 
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Thermometer 
               
               
                 Chemical Oxygen 
                 780.49 
                 25.68 
                 100 maximum 
                 Dichromate Reflux 
               
               
                 Demand (COD), mg/L 
                   
                   
                   
                 Method 
               
               
                 Biochemical Oxygen 
                 721.26 
                 &lt;1 
                 50 maximum 
                 Azide Modification 
               
               
                 Demand (5-days 
                   
                   
                   
                 (Dilution 
               
               
                 BOD), mg/L 
                   
                   
                   
                 Technique) 
               
               
                 Settleable Solids, 
                 n/a 
                 0.1 
                 0.5 maximum 
                 Volumetric 
               
               
                 ml/L 
                   
                   
                   
                 (Imhoff Cone) 
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Method 
               
               
                 Dissolved Oxygen, 
                 n/a 
                 6.58 
                   
                 Azide Modification 
               
               
                 mg/L 
                   
                   
                   
                 (Winkler Method) 
               
               
                 Total Coliform, 
                 n/a 
                 &lt;2 
                 ≦10,000 
                 Multiple Tube 
               
               
                 MPN/100 ml 
                   
                   
                 maximum 
                 Fermentation 
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Technique 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0061]    As shown in the above Test Result, which the experiment and analysis was carried out by an independent laboratory, after treatment by one of the models of floating bioreactor system  100  of the present invention, the overall quality of waste water improved significantly. Most notable results included the BOD reduction from over 700 mg/L in the influent sample to a mere &lt;1 mg/L in the effluent sample. The value of Total Coliform [ E. coli ] was also reduced to &lt;2 MPN/100 ml. Both values are way lower than the DENR Effluent Standard for Inland Water Class C—“NPI, making the effluent sample Class AA water, better or equivalent to drinking water quality in those respects. The waste water was treated only by floating bioreactor system  100  of the present invention with no chlorination, no filters, no sludge handling and no chemicals, pre or post treatment. 
         [0062]    Test Results 2: 
       Test Laboratory: Robinsons Land Corporation; Analysis No.: WA-11-151 
       [0063]    Model: BioCleaner™ 1200 m3 system [16 HP] 
       Test Date Sample—Jul. 5, 2011; Analysis—Jul. 5-21, 2011 
     Sample Source: STP-Main Mall 
       [0064]    Methodology: Based on Standard Methods for the Examination of Waste and Wastewater 21 st  Edition. APHA, AWWA, WEF 
       Quantitative Water Analysis 
       [0065]      
         [0000]    
       
         
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 DENR 
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Effluent 
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Standard 
               
               
                 Sample 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 for Inland 
               
               
                 Identification 
                 Influent 
                 Aeration #1 
                 Aeration #2 
                 Effluent 
                 Water 
               
               
                 (Lab. Sample 
                 (S11-WA- 
                 (S11-WA- 
                 (S11-WA- 
                 (S11-WA- 
                 Class C - 
                 Method of 
               
               
                 Nos.) 
                 383) 
                 385) 
                 386) 
                 384) 
                 “NPI” 
                 Analysis 
               
               
                   
               
             
             
               
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                 pH, as 
                 6.92 
                 8.20 
                 8.19 
                 8.88 
                 6.5-9.0 
                 Glass 
               
               
                 received 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Electrode 
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Method 
               
               
                 Temperature, 
                 24.2 
                 24.1 
                 24.2 
                 24.1 
                   
                 Mercury- 
               
               
                 ° C. 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Filled 
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Thermometer 
               
               
                 Chemical 
                 1384.62 
                 n/a 
                 n/a 
                 8.60 
                 100 
                 Dichromate 
               
               
                 Oxygen 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 maximum 
                 Reflux 
               
               
                 Demand 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Method 
               
               
                 (COD), mg/L 
               
               
                 Biochemical 
                 1098.49 
                 n/a 
                 n/a 
                 &lt;1 
                 50 
                 Azide 
               
               
                 Oxygen 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 maximum 
                 Modification 
               
               
                 Demand (5- 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 (Dilution 
               
               
                 days BOD), 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Technique) 
               
               
                 mg/L 
               
               
                 Total 
                 344 
                 2920 
                 2480 
                 7 
                 70 
                 Gravimetric 
               
               
                 Suspended 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 maximum 
                 Method 
               
               
                 Solids, mg/L 
               
               
                 Total 
                 n/a 
                 2465 
                 2070 
                 n/a 
                   
                 Gravimetric 
               
               
                 Volatile 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Method 
               
               
                 Solids, mg/L 
               
               
                 Settleable 
                 15 
                 600 
                 850 
                 &lt;0.1 
                 0.5 
                 Volumetric 
               
               
                 Solids, ml/L 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 maximum 
                 (Imhoff 
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Cone) 
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Method 
               
               
                 Total 
                 n/a 
                 n/a 
                 n/a 
                 &lt;1.8 
                 ≦10,000 
                 Multiple 
               
               
                 Coliform, 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 maximum 
                 Tube 
               
               
                 MPN/100 ml 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Fermentation 
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Technique 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0066]    Test Results 3: 
       Test Laboratory: Robinsons Land Corporation; Analysis No.: WA-11-258 
       [0067]    Model: BioCleaner™ 1200 m3 system [16 HP] 
       Test Date Sample—Nov. 10, 2011; Analysis—Nov. 10-19, 2011 
     Sample Source: STP-Main Mall 
       [0068]    Methodology: Based on Standard Methods for the Examination of Waste and Wastewater 21 st  Edition. APHA, AWWA, WEF 
       Quantitative Water Analysis 
       [0069]      
         [0000]    
       
         
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 DENR 
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Effluent 
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Standard 
               
               
                 Sample 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 for Inland 
               
               
                 Identification 
                 Influent 
                 Aeration #1 
                 Aeration #2 
                 Effluent 
                 Water 
               
               
                 (Lab. Sample 
                 (S11-WA- 
                 (S11-WA- 
                 (S11-WA- 
                 (S11-WA- 
                 Class C - 
                 Method of 
               
               
                 Nos.) 
                 654) 
                 656) 
                 657) 
                 655) 
                 “NPI” 
                 Analysis 
               
               
                   
               
             
             
               
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                 pH, as 
                 5.72 
                 6.91 
                 6.87 
                 6.95 
                 6.5-9.0 
                 Glass 
               
               
                 received 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Electrode 
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Method 
               
               
                 Temperature, 
                 23.2 
                 22.9 
                 23.3 
                 23.4 
                   
                 Mercury- 
               
               
                 ° C. 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Filled 
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Thermometer 
               
               
                 Chemical 
                 1480 
                 n/a 
                 n/a 
                 18.36 
                 100 
                 Dichromate 
               
               
                 Oxygen 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 maximum 
                 Reflux 
               
               
                 Demand 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Method 
               
               
                 (COD), mg/L 
               
               
                 Biochemical 
                 1058 
                 n/a 
                 n/a 
                 &lt;1 
                 50 
                 Azide 
               
               
                 Oxygen 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 maximum 
                 Modification 
               
               
                 Demand (5- 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 (Dilution 
               
               
                 days BOD), 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Technique) 
               
               
                 mg/L 
               
               
                 Total 
                 329 
                 2730 
                 2665 
                 2 
                 70 
                 Gravimetric 
               
               
                 Suspended 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 maximum 
                 Method 
               
               
                 Solids, mg/L 
               
               
                 Total 
                 n/a 
                 2500 
                 2425 
                 n/a 
                   
                 Gravimetric 
               
               
                 Volatile 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Method 
               
               
                 Solids, mg/L 
               
               
                 Settleable 
                 2.0 
                 320 
                 320 
                 &lt;0.1 
                 0.5 
                 Volumetric 
               
               
                 Solids, ml/L 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 maximum 
                 (Imhoff 
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Cone) 
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Method 
               
               
                 Oil and 
                 71.67 
                 n/a 
                 n/a 
                 1.867 
                 5.0 
                 Gravimetric 
               
               
                 Grease, mg/L 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 maximum 
                 Method 
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 (Petroleum 
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Ether 
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Extraction) 
               
               
                 Total 
                 n/a 
                 n/a 
                 n/a 
                 &lt;1.8 
                 ≦10,000 
                 Multiple 
               
               
                 Coliform, 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 maximum 
                 Tube 
               
               
                 MPN/100 ml 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Fermentation 
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Technique 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0070]    The two subsequent experiments show that results show that the overall quality of waste water improved significantly and consistently. 
         [0071]    Test Results 4: 
         [0000]    Test Laboratory: Chempro Analytical Services Laboratories, Inc.; Ref No.: AR No. 539-c-11
 
Model: BioCleaner™ 1200 m3 system [16 HP]
 
       Test Date Sample—Jun. 9, 2011; Analysis—Jun. 11-17, 2011 
     Sample Source Wastewater—Effluent (1) 
       [0072]    Methodology: Based on Standard Methods for the Examination of Waste and Wastewater 20 th  Edition. APHA, AWWA, WEF, Washington, D.C. 1998 
         [0000]    
       
         
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                 Analyte(s) 
                 Method 
                 Result(s), mg/L 
               
               
                   
                   
               
             
             
               
                   
                 1. Ammoniacal Nitrogen 
                 Kjeldahl-Titrimetric 
                 1.00 
               
               
                   
                 2. Total Nitrogen 
                 Kjeldahl-Titrimetric 
                 1.71 
               
               
                   
                 3. Total Phosphate 
                 Colorimetric 
                 0.52 
               
               
                   
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0073]    Test Results 5: 
         [0000]    Test Laboratory Chempro Analytical Services Laboratories, Inc.; Ref No.: AR No. 597-c-11
 
Model: BioCleaner™ 1200 m3 system [16 HP]
 
       Test Date Sample—Jun. 29, 2011; Analysis—Jul. 2-16, 2011 
     Sample Source Wastewater (2)/ROB MNL 
       [0074]    Methodology: Based on Standard Methods for the Examination of Waste and Wastewater 20 th  Edition. APHA, AWWA, WEF, Washington, D.C. 1998 
         [0000]    
       
         
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                 Result(s), mg/L 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                   
                 Influent 
                 Effluent 
               
               
                 Analyte(s) 
                 Method(s) 
                 LC-1662 
                 LC-1663 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 1. Total Nitrogen 
                 Kjeldahl-Titrimetric 
                 48.25 
                 3.92 
               
               
                 2. Ammoniacal Nitrogen 
                   
                 30.38 
                 2.10 
               
               
                 3. Total Phosphate 
                 Colorimetric 
                 11.96 
                 2.82 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0075]    The results of Test 4 and 5 illustrate that after treatment by one of the models of floating bioreactor system  100  of the present invention, the overall quality of waste water improved significantly in three main areas including the drastic reduction of the level of total nitrogen, ammoniacal nitrogen and total phosphate. 
         [0076]    It will be understood based upon the foregoing results of Tests numbers 2-5 that performance of waste reduction and bio-cleaning of water in streams, settling tanks or ponds, aquariums as well as septic systems can be enhanced using the floating and submerged bioreactors of the present invention. 
         [0077]      FIG. 4A  is a representative view showing one method of adaption of an alternative embodiment, viz. aquarium bioreactor and aerator system  400 . As shown in  FIG. 4A , floating bioreactor system  100  of the present invention can be adapted to be used in an aquarium. In one embodiment, aquarium bioreactor and aerator system  400  consists of air pump  414 , air hose  413  and bioreactor and aerator combo  401 . In one embodiment, air pump is a low wattage pump, approximately 2-3 watts, supplying air to in situ bioreactor and aerator combo  401  via air hose  413 . In one embodiment, bioreactor and aerator combo  401  is completely submerged in the water  412 . Preferably, approximately 150 grams by weight of bioreactor and aerator combo  401  should be used for an aquarium of 81 to 160 liters by volume. For smaller tanks with volume below 80 liters, 100 grams by weight of bioreactor and aerator combo  401  should be used. 
         [0078]    To sufficiently aerate a 100 gallon tank, air pump  414  should be around 5 watts of power or approximately 0.07 watts of power per gallon of water. In one embodiment, regularly clean filter and the inner wall of the tank to prevent forming of biofilms. The system  400  works best in conjunction with a carbon filter  409 . 
         [0079]    The advantages of using aquarium bioreactor and aerator system  400  include no odor, no sedimentation, controlled water pH value, various set microbes for controlling nitrogen cycle, water and energy conservation, fishes that are more resistant to diseases, no need for mechanical filter and no chemicals needed. The present invention reduces the level of ammonia in wastewater, by converting it into nitrates and/or nitrites which can be filtered for removal. 
         [0080]      FIG. 4B  is a representative side view of bioreactor and aerator combo  401  of aquarium bioreactor and aerator system  400 .  FIG. 4C  is a representative side partially exposed view of bioreactor and aerator combo  401  of aquarium bioreactor and aerator system  400 . The main purpose of bioreactor and aerator combo  401  is to both generate tiny air bubbles for aeration and disperse microbes to clean up waste in aquariums. As shown in  FIG. 4B , the exterior of bioreactor and aerator combo  401  is made of perforated stainless steel plate wherein numerous holes  420  are present. In one embodiment, bioreactor and aerator combo  401  is a canister which is cylindrical in shape with approximate dimensions in the range of four inches by two and a half inches in diameter. As best shown in  FIG. 4C , air generated from air pump  414  enters bioreactor and aerator combo  401  via hose  413  subsequently rubber hose  408  inside bioreactor and aerator combo  401 . Air will then reach air diffuser  407  and tiny air bubbles  415  are generated. Air bubbles  415  will then reach surrounding microbial media  406  where appropriate types and amount of microbial is contained. In one embodiment, microbial media  406  contains a combination of  lactobacillus , nitrifiers and denitrifiers, and saprotrophic bacteria, i.e., bacteria known as detritivores, also known as detritus feeders or saprophages, that are heterotrophs that obtain nutrients by consuming detritus. Use of combinations of other bacteria, including other types of probiotics, will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Air bubbles  415  will provide oxygen and nutrients for the microbial population to thrive and also disperse them out of bioreactor and aerator combo  401  via holes  420 . The microbes produced by bioreactor and aerator combo  401  will feed on the fish waste and other contaminant in the aquarium making the water  412  clearer and odorless. 
         [0081]    In one embodiment, aquarium bioreactor and aerator system  400  helps facilitate the task of maintaining a healthy aquarium. Instead of changing water everyday, it only requires changing an approximate 20 percent of the water, once every 6 months. In general, the aquarium set up is identical to aquariums without aquarium bioreactor and aerator system  400 , including carbon filters  409  for removal of particulate, and regular aeration pump for providing oxygen to fish  410 . Water still needs to be replenished every 2 or 3 days to compensate for evaporative loss. 
         [0082]      FIG. 5A  is a representative view showing one method of adaption of an alternative embodiment, viz. home septic bioreactor and aerator system  500 . Home septic bioreactor and aerator system  500  provides a method and apparatus for continuous, in-situ microbial seeding at the septic tank  512 . As shown in  FIG. 5A , home septic bioreactor and aerator system  500  consists essentially of home septic unit  501 , air pump [not shown] and air hoses  511 . In one embodiment, home septic unit  501  is an immersible container which also serves as a bio-reactor. Home septic unit  501  is immersed in the waste water  530  completely and is secured at the bottom of septic tank  512  at footing  503  by mechanical means. In one embodiment, home septic unit  501  is also attached to cables  510  for support at handle brackets  504  and has an air pump located above the septic tank  512 . In one alternative embodiment, in the case when the septic tank  512  is large enough such as 2 to 3 chambers with a day in each chamber and the waste stream is domestic only, it can be adopted for a myriad of recycle applications. The recycle applications includes having several home septic units  501  immersed into waste water  513 , an additional small sand filter installed at one end, and an additional UV flow tube installed for disinfection. 
         [0083]      FIG. 5B  is a representative side view of home septic unit  501  of home septic bioreactor and aerator system  500 .  FIG. 5C  is a representative side partially exposed view of home septic unit  501  of home septic bioreactor and aerator system  500 . Although home septic unit  501  can be in any number of different configurations, in one embodiment, home septic unit  501  is a roughly cylindrical hollow canister having a footing  503 . As shown in  FIG. 5B , home septic unit  501  has a cap  505  on top, numerous inlet holes  502  at the bottom and outlet opening  520  near the top half of the structure. In one embodiment, air enters home septic unit  501  via air hose  506  and diffuser hose  509 . As shown in  FIG. 5C , home septic unit  501  microbial media  507  in its core that store and produce the microbes. In one embodiment, a diffuser unit  508  is placed at the bottom of home septic unit  501 , which is powered by air pump. Diffuser unit  508  generates tiny air bubbles that provide oxygen and nutrients to microbial that is contained in microbial media  507  and simultaneously creates vacuum that sucks in waste water  530  from inlet holes  503  at the bottom. Waste water  530  travels upward inside home septic unit  501  and is then released at the top via outlet opening  520 . During the journey upward, waste water makes contact with the microbial media  507  in the process and carries with it microbial when it is released back to open water. 
         [0084]    By continuous adding a desired microbial population such as a combination of  lactobacillus , nitrifiers and denitrifiers, and saprotrophic bacteria directly into waste water  530  to be treated, the present invention  500  allows for demand growth and microbial acclimation based on the waste content within the said environment. The microbial agents generated by the present invention  500  are provided with a continuous supply of oxygen and/or nutrients by diffuser unit  508 , such microbial agents can more effectively mineralize waste within an environment  530  being treated. The present invention  500  can specifically makes the septic tank  512  of houses into a small sewage treatment plant. Over time, the in-situ microbial addition provided by home septic bioreactor and aerator system  500  of the present invention shall make waste water  530  to acceptable discharge level. 
         [0085]      FIG. 6A  is a representative view showing one method of adaption of an alternative embodiment, viz. aero dynamic mixer bioreactor and aerator system  600 .  FIG. 6B  is a representative side view of aero dynamic mixer of aero dynamic mixer bioreactor and aerator system  600 . In one embodiment, aero dynamic mixer bioreactor and aerator system  600  essentially is a skirt device which will allow the water to be brought up from the bottom of a lake and/or pond having an approximate depth of 8 meters to 24 meters deep. The main purpose of aero dynamic mixer bioreactor and aerator system  600  is to efficiently spread the good microbes around and also act like a mixing tank which is a very cheap form of cleaning lakes and ponds. In one embodiment, aero dynamic mixer bioreactor and aerator system  600  is an aeration device adapted to be used in outdoor environment such as lakes and ponds. As shown in  FIG. 6A , aero dynamic mixer is basically a housing adapted to float within the liquid medium  609  such that the top portion remains above surface of the water/liquid medium  609 . The airlift device has been known for many years and essentially operates by supplying air bubbles into the water at a predetermined depth below the surface. Some of this air is absorbed into the water, which causes the water to become less dense and rise towards the surface. The rising of the water causes circulation  608 , which distributes the aerated water and brings additional water toward the device for aeration and the water is drawn mostly from the bottom of the water body and the sides of aero dynamic mixer bioreactor and aerator system  600 . 
         [0086]    Water  609  is aerated in an airlift device by use of a diffuser. When the diffuser is submerged in water  609 , the movement of gas through the device causes bubbles to emerge from the pores and into the water  609 . In one embodiment, the aero dynamic mixer bioreactor and aerator system  600  uses a patented porous rubber houses as a diffuser. 
         [0087]    The present invention  600  is comprised of a series of porous diffusers called Aerogrids™ arranged in a way that they are in a straight line. These aeration diffusers are positioned in fiberglass frames that are supported by floaters  603 . 
         [0088]    As best shown in  FIG. 6B , above the surface are blowers  650  situated to give air to the diffusers. A skirt  606  varying in dimensions, depending on the depth of the medium, wraps around the device  600  in such a way it has openings  607  only at the top and bottom. A small opening  660  is also noticed on one side of the device  600  just below the surface. This will serve as a mouth to water  609  coming out created by the vacuum when the said present invention  600  is turned on. The present invention  600  is capable of drawing water  609  and recirculating it in a very potent manner. Also it is a mobile device that can easily hoist to a boat and move from one location to another. 
         [0089]    Although the inventions herein is to be understood that these are merely illustrative of the principles and applications of the present inventions. Therefore, it is understood that numerous modifications may be made to the illustrative embodiments and that other modifications maybe devised without departing from the scope and functions of the inventions as defined by the claims to be followed. 
         [0090]    Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention belongs. Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described can be used in the practice or testing of the present invention, the preferred methods and materials are now described. All publications and patent documents referenced in the present invention are incorporated herein by reference. 
         [0091]    While the principles of the invention have been made clear in illustrative embodiments, there will be immediately obvious to those skilled in the art many modifications of structure, arrangement, proportions, the elements, materials, and components used in the practice of the invention, and otherwise, which are particularly adapted to specific environments and operative requirements without departing from those principles. The appended claims are intended to cover and embrace any and all such modifications, with the limits only of the true purview, spirit and scope of the invention.