| abstract |
A compact, efficient reactor for the photocatalyzed conversion of contaminants in a fluid stream. The reactor includes a photocatalyst disposed on a support structure with a light source in optical proximity to the support structure to activate the photocatalyst. In one embodiment of the invention, the support structure includes multiple non-intersecting fins oriented parallel to the general flow direction of the fluid stream to provide a reactor with low pressure drop and adequate mass transfer of the contaminant to the photocatalyst disposed on the surface of the fins. The light source includes one or more lamps that may penetrate the fins to provide efficient illumination of the photocatalyst. The fins may be flat or pleated. In an alternative embodiment, the fins are pleated and composed of a porous material. These fins are oriented so that the fluid stream flows through the fins. In another embodiment, the support structure includes one or more cylinders having pleated inner surfaces with longitudinal lamps disposed within the cylinders. The photocatalyst is deposited on the inner surface of the cylinder to convert contaminants flowing through the cylinder. The reactor is designed for ease of support structure or light source removal or replacement and may be used as a modular subassembly in a larger fluid purification unit. |