Freeze desalination method via injection of dry ice field

Abstract

The present invention relates to a freeze desalination method where carbon dioxide, in the form of dry ice, is injected into saltwater. The carbon dioxide sublimes, which cause ice to form around the carbon dioxide bubble. The ice bubble floats to the top of the saltwater, and it can then be skimmed off the top and melted. This water has a low concentration of salt. It then can go through further desalination methods, such as reverse osmosis, to further purify the water. The embodiments described herein are not limiting and this can be accomplished by methods not described fully herein. Particularly, the present invention provides a direct freeze desalination (DFD) method wherein solid carbon dioxide pellets are injected into saline water, forming buoyant ice balls that are separated, washed, and melted. The process uniquely integrates CO2 recycling, energy-saving compression, and optional mineral recovery to produce potable water with lower energy consumption compared to conventional methods

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.