COMBINED ULTRA-HIGH FREQUENCY UNIT FOR IN-STREAM WATER PURIFICATION

Area of Science:

• Engineering
• Biotechnology
• Food Science

Background:

• Sterilization of liquids, especially those with spore-forming microorganisms, often requires high temperatures exceeding 100°C.
• High-temperature sterilization can degrade the nutritional quality of liquids.
• Existing methods may not be energy-efficient or suitable for preserving liquid integrity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an innovative engineering solution for liquid sterilization.
• To achieve effective decontamination at temperatures below 100°C at normal pressure.
• To maintain the nutritional properties of liquids during the sterilization process.

Main Methods:

• Integration of an ultra-high frequency (UHF) energy unit with an electrolyzer.
• Utilizing a rectangular waveguide as one electrode, featuring holes for liquid passage.
• Employing a specially designed Teflon sterilization chamber within the waveguide at a 30-45° angle.

Main Results:

• The proposed design facilitates liquid decontamination below 100°C.
• Effective elimination of spore-forming microorganisms is achieved.
• Nutritional properties of the treated liquids are retained.

Conclusions:

• The combined UHF energy and electrolysis system offers a promising approach for low-temperature liquid sterilization.
• This method allows for the preservation of liquid quality and nutritional value.
• The engineering solution presents a viable alternative for sterilizing sensitive liquids.