Publication date: 2004-07-20
Abstract
A device for producing an aqueous chlorine
dioxide solution when placed in water. The device includes a membrane shell that
defines a compartment which includes one or more dry chemicals (e.g., a metal
chlorite and an acid) capable of producing chlorine dioxide gas when exposed to
water. Wick means extend into the compartment for absorbing water and
transporting water into the compartment such that the chemical(s) in the
compartment dissolve in the water and produce chlorine dioxide. In one
embodiment, the membrane is formed of a material that allows the passage of gas
(e.g., chlorine dioxide) but is impervious to liquid (e.g., water). In another
embodiment, the wick means is a wick member which divides the compartment into
first and second compartment sections. One chemical (metal chlorite, for
example) is contained within the first compartment section and another chemical
(acid, for example) is contained within or can easily be placed in the second
compartment section. When the device is placed in water, water enters the device
by way of the wick means and possibly the membrane shell. The chemicals dissolve
in the water and react to produce chlorine dioxide gas. The chlorine dioxide gas
then passes through the membrane shell and possibly the wick member into the
surrounding water transforming the water into an aqueous chlorine dioxide
solution. The solution can then be used, for example, as a disinfectant
solution.
