Publication date: 2002-07-11 

Abstract

A generator (11) for continuously creating chlorine dioxide. A lamp (10) is positioned in a container (30) holding aqueous chlorite (320) is circulated through a circulation tube (16). A shield (52) reduces contact between the lamp radiation and the aqueous chlorite (32) outside of the circulation tube (16). The aqueous chlorite (32) in the circulation tube (16) is irradiated by the lamp (10) to generate chlorine dioxide. The chlorine dioxide can be removed from the container (30) with a vacuum eductor (46) or can be transported with a gas sparge. Continuous production of the chlorine dioxide can be monitored and controlled with a control module (50) which detects the quantity of chlorine dioxide generated. The generator (11) reduces safety hazards associated with the handling of chlorite solutions and provides an inexpensive, portable system for the in situ generation of chlorine dioxide.