Ashutosh Kole, Meng H. Lean, Norine E. Chang, Kai Melde, Jeonggi Seo, Armin R. Vlkel, Huangpin B. Hsieh, Frank E. Torres

This paper reports a novel hydrodynamic separation technique that can be applied to a variety of industrial applications. This technology operates purely by fluid dynamics without the need for physical filtration. It uses centrifugal force in an enclosed, curved channel to create transverse flow patterns that sweep suspended particles to a force equilibrium location, resulting in band focusing along a side wall of the. A channel split divides this asymmetrically loaded suspension into two separate streams: one concentrated in particles and the other devoid of particles. Unlike existing hydro-cyclones and centrifuges, this technology can also address near neutrally buoyant suspensions. Added benefits include no moving parts, low energy consumption, high scalability, minimal footprint, continuous-flow operation, high modularity in construction, and low cost in materials and TCO. Chemically assisted aggregation, using traditional coagulants/flocculants may be used to extend the separable particle size into the sub-micron range. Precipitation chemistry may be used to precipitate dissolved contaminants and separate the resulting suspension. The hydrodynamic separator targets aggregates for immediate separation, eliminating the need for any sedimentation. This technology has been successfully tested on many samples for Solid-Liquid separation - pretreatment for desalination, municipal water, on-shore and off-shore produced water with high silica content; high Fe and Mn well water, algae dewatering; and Liquid-Liquid separation - oil water separation; extends the time between cleaning for MF and UF membrane process. The process can be used of greatly reduce the load on MF and UF. Selected results for removal of dissolved components will be discussed.