Unknown Organization (20240307827). 3D PRINTED SPACERS FOR ION-EXCHANGE DEVICE simplified abstract
Contents
3D PRINTED SPACERS FOR ION-EXCHANGE DEVICE
Organization Name
Inventor(s)
Ethan L. Demeter of The Woodlands TX (US)
Michael James Connor of Porter TX (US)
Brian M. Mcdonald of Austin TX (US)
3D PRINTED SPACERS FOR ION-EXCHANGE DEVICE - A simplified explanation of the abstract
This abstract first appeared for US patent application 20240307827 titled '3D PRINTED SPACERS FOR ION-EXCHANGE DEVICE
The present disclosure involves ion-exchange systems and devices with composite ion-exchange membranes featuring 3D printed spacers. These spacers reduce the intermembrane spacing while maintaining a reliable sealing surface.
- Additive manufacturing is used to directly incorporate the spacers into the membrane, reducing material usage without affecting manufacturability.
- Complex spacer geometries are achievable, allowing for reduced flow restrictions and lower pressure drop in the active area of the membranes.
Potential Applications: - Water treatment systems - Desalination processes - Chemical separation technologies
Problems Solved: - Reduced intermembrane spacing - Improved flow efficiency - Enhanced membrane performance
Benefits: - Lower pressure drop - Increased efficiency - Cost-effective manufacturing
Commercial Applications: Ion-exchange systems for industrial water treatment processes
Questions about Ion-Exchange Systems with 3D Printed Spacers: 1. How do 3D printed spacers impact the efficiency of ion-exchange systems?
- 3D printed spacers can reduce pressure drop and improve flow efficiency in the system.
2. What are the potential cost savings associated with using composite ion-exchange membranes with 3D printed spacers?
- The use of additive manufacturing for spacers can lead to reduced material costs and more cost-effective manufacturing processes.
Original Abstract Submitted
the present disclosure is directed to ion-exchange systems and devices that include composite ion-exchange membranes having 3d printed spacers on them. these 3d printed spacers can drastically reduce the total intermembrane spacing within the system/device while maintaining a reliable sealing surface around the exterior border of the membrane. by adding the spacers directly to the membrane using additive manufacturing, the amount of material used can be reduced without adversely impacting the manufacturability of the composite membrane as well as allow for complex spacer geometries that can reduce the restrictions to flow resulting in less pressure drop associated with the flow in the active area of the membranes.
