Electrodeionization apparatus with resilient endblock

#1. Field of the Invention

#The present invention relates to an electrodeionization apparatus and, more particularly, to an electrodeionization apparatus having an endblock formed of a resilient material.

#2. Description of Related Art

#Preferred, non limiting embodiments of the present invention will be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

#FIG. 1 is an exploded view of a conventional electrodeionization apparatus;

#FIG. 2 is a schematic view of a conventional endblock and electrode;

#The present invention is directed to an electrodeionization apparatus including an electrode block, also known as an endblock, formed of a resilient material. As used herein, “resilient material” is defined as a material having the ability to recover its size and form following deformation. Traditional rigid endblocks typically provide support for an electrode and fluid flow within an apparatus given the normally high operating pressures. It is desirable that the endblock also provide electrical isolation between the electrode and a grounded endplate, and seals with a spacer gasket and with tie-bar sleeves to isolate the fluid compartments from the endplate, which is typically formed from a metal, and the working fluid in the apparatus from components that may not be compatible. A resilient endblock may provide integral fluid tight seals throughout the electrodeionization apparatus, thereby eliminating the use of separate seals such as o-rings and gaskets.

#An electrodeionization apparatus or device may be based on technologies such as continuous electrodeionization, electrodiaresis, filled-cell electrodialysis, electrochemical ion exchange, capacitive deionization and the like. Moreover, an electrodeionization apparatus may be based on various configurations, such as a spiral design, as disclosed, for example, by Rychen et al., in U.S. Pat. No. 5,376,253, a plate and frame design as disclosed, for example, by DiMascio et al., in U.S. Pat. No. 5,858,191 and a circular design comprising electrically inert disk-shaped spacers having a central hub and upper and lower surfaces, as disclosed, for example, by Liang et al., in U.S. Pat. No. 5,292,422, each incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

#Referring to FIG. 1, a conventional electrodeionization apparatus 10 comprises one stage 12 bounded by electrode 9 and electrode 11. Adjacent to an end plate 13 is an endblock 17 to house electrode 9 and desired manifolding. An electrode spacer 18 is positioned adjacent to the endblock 17 and includes a screen 19 which effects turbulent flow of liquid passing through the electrode spacer 18. An ion permeable membrane 20 is sealed to the periphery 21 of electrode spacer 18. Spacers 22 formed of flexible material include a screen 24. The spacers and screens 24 plus ion exchange membranes comprise the concentrating compartments of the electrodeionization apparatus.