Patent ID: 8668827

Claim:
An apparatus for aggregating microorganisms in an aqueous suspension, comprising: a. at least one first electrical conductor configured as a cathode; b. at least one second electrical conductor configured as an anode; c. at least one pair of spaced insulators disposed between the at least one first electrical conductor and the at least one second electrical conductor, the at least one first conductor being disposed opposite the at least one second electrical conductor, such that a channel is defined between the at least one first electrical conductor, the at least one second electrical conductor, and the at least one pair of spaced insulators, the channel providing a fluid flow path for the aqueous suspension; d. an electrical power source operably connected to the at least one first electrical conductor and the at least one second electrical conductor, wherein an electrical field is created by providing an electric current from the electrical power source to the at least one first electrical conductor and the at least one second electrical conductor; e. at least one first transducer coupled to the at least one first electrical conductor; f. at least one second transducer coupled to the at least one second electrical conductor; and g. a generator configured to produce and transmit electrical radio frequency signals, wherein the generator transmits an electrical radio frequency signal to the at least one first and second transducers, and the transducers convert the electrical signal into an acoustic signal which vibrates the at least one first electrical conductor and the at least one second electrical conductor, and creates a standing wave with a pressure minima node at a location between the at least one first electrical conductor and the at least one second electrical conductor.