Oxidation method and reactor

Abstract

A method and apparatus for increasing the concentration of oxygen in the reaction medium present in the oxidation reactor. A volume of aqueous medium from the oxidation reactor is removed and pressurized and oxygen is added to it. The oxygen-rich volume of aqueous medium is then reintroduced into the oxidation reactor at an increased pressure to ensure adequate mixing with the aqueous medium having a lower content of oxygen.

1 - 28 . (canceled) 
     
     
         29 . An apparatus comprising an oxidation reactor; means for stirring; means for withdrawing an aqueous medium from said oxidation reactor; means for feeding oxygen to said aqueous medium; and means for introducing said aqueous medium back into said oxidation reactor. 
     
     
         30 . The apparatus as claimed in  claim 29  wherein said means for withdrawing an aqueous medium from said oxidation reactor comprises a pump. 
     
     
         31 . The apparatus as claimed in  claim 29  wherein said means for introducing said aqueous medium back into said oxidation reactor comprises a venturi device. 
     
     
         32 . The apparatus as claimed in  claim 29  wherein the rate for feeding oxygen to said aqueous medium is controlled by a programmable logic controller. 
     
     
         33 . The apparatus as claimed in  claim 29  wherein said means for introducing said aqueous medium back into said oxidation reactor comprises a liquid inducing nozzle.