Capacitive Electrostatic Process for Inhibiting the Formation of BioFilm Deposits in Membrane-Separation Systems

A method for reducing existing biofilm deposits on a wall in a water system comprising the steps of:

• providing a capacitive electrostatic generator adapted to create an electrostatic field;
• immersing said electrostatic generator in a body of water in the water system, the water system being connected to an electrical ground relative to an electromotive force available for energizing the electrostatic generator;
• and
• reducing said existing biofilm deposits by energizing said electrostatic generator with said electromotive force, such that a corresponding electrostatic field is created between said generator immersed in the water system and said electrical ground without measurable current leakage in the body of water;
• wherein said capacitive electrostatic generator comprises a vitrified ceramic tube of unibody construction having an integrally-sealed end defining an inner cavity with an inner wall;
• conductive material contained within said inner cavity and disposed in intimate contact with said inner wall;
• electrically-insulated sealing means for providing hermetic closure to said inner cavity;
• and electrical means for energizing said conductive material with a static electromotive force.