Device for Plasma-Supported Treatment of Liquids

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This invention describes a compact device for treating liquids—especially water—using non-thermal, atmospheric pressure plasma. The device features a unique arrangement of electrodes and porous, conductive materials, allowing the liquid to form a thin film that can be efficiently exposed to plasma generated via dielectric barrier discharge. Additional features such as integrated filtration and optional UV irradiation enhance the treatment's efficacy and versatility. The design enables both direct connection to water taps and use with liquid tanks, making it suitable for a wide range of practical applications.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• On-demand disinfection and purification of drinking water at the point of use, such as direct installation on household water taps.
• Sterilization of surfaces, tools, or medical equipment with plasma-treated liquid.
• Disinfection of hands, fruits, and vegetables using the treated water.
• Wastewater treatment to remove contaminants and pathogens more effectively than conventional methods.
• Irrigation with plasma-treated water in agriculture and horticulture to promote plant growth and yield.
• Portable water treatment units for use in remote, emergency, or field conditions.
• Industrial processing requiring water sterilization or pollutant breakdown.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Provides an effective, compact solution for liquid (especially water) disinfection and purification using plasma technology.
• Can remove pathogens (bacteria, viruses), degrade micropollutants, and filter particulates like microplastics for improved water quality.
• Flexible configuration: suitable for both household and industrial use, adaptable for connection to taps or liquid tanks.
• Generates plasma at atmospheric pressure and room temperature, avoiding the need for high-temperature or chemical-based treatments.
• Optionally combines plasma treatment with UV irradiation for enhanced sterilization efficiency.
• The porous electrode can serve as a physical filter, adding an extra purification stage.
• Supports on-the-go and point-of-use water treatment, enhancing safety and accessibility.

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Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a device (10) for treating a liquid with a plasma, wherein the device (10) has a high-voltage electrode (20) as well as a liquid-permeable ground electrode device (30). The ground electrode device (30) has a flat, conductive region (32) and a porous region (34) arranged on the flat, conductive region (32), wherein the conductive region (32) is liquid-permeable along its flat extension. A discharge space (40) is formed between the ground electrode device (30) and the high-voltage electrode (20). A first dielectric (50) is arranged on the high-voltage electrode (20) so that a plasma can be generated in the discharge space (40) by means of a dielectric barrier discharge. Moreover, the device (10) has an initial flow volume (60) into which the liquid (12) can be conducted, and that is surrounded by a wall (62). At least in a first region, the wall (62) of the initial flow volume (60) has the ground electrode device (30) such that the initial flow volume (60) is connected to the discharge space (40) in a liquid permeable manner via the ground electrode device (30).