Methods of synthesizing an oxidant and applications thereof

Abstract

Novel devices for synthesizing ferrate and uses thereof are described. One aspect of the invention relates to devices and systems for synthesizing ferrate at a site proximal to the site of use.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A method of treating, at a site of use, an aqueous mixture having at least one impurity, comprising
 a) continuously generating ferrate at a location that is proximal to the site of use;   b) contacting the ferrate with the aqueous mixture at the site of use, whereby at least a portion of the impurity is oxidized or coagulated.   
     
     
         2 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the step of continuously generating ferrate comprises the steps of:
 a) mixing an aqueous solution comprising an iron salt and an oxidizing agent in a mixing chamber;   b) delivering at least a portion of the aqueous solution to a reaction chamber;   c) continuously generating ferrate in the reaction chamber;   d) delivering at least a portion of the ferrate to a site of use that is proximal to the reaction chamber; and   e) adding additional aqueous solution to the mixing chamber.   
     
     
         3 . The method of  claim 2 , further comprising the step of adding a base to the aqueous solution. 
     
     
         4 . The method of  claim 1 , whereby at least a portion of the impurity is coagulated. 
     
     
         5 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the aqueous mixture is drinking water. 
     
     
         6 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the aqueous mixture is waste water. 
     
     
         7 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the aqueous mixture is sewage water. 
     
     
         8 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the step of continuously generating ferrate is performed in a reaction chamber.