System Description
The system provides a safe and economic electrolytic process for the on-site generation of a biocide solution from seawater to disinfect aquatic invasive species in ballast water. Ballast water treatment is accomplished using a simple three-step process of filtration, injection of a sodium hypochlorite solution, and residual oxidant neutralization. The first phase is filtration using a 40-micron stainless steel mesh filter to remove large particles and sediment. The second phase of the treatment process is the electrochemical generation of the sodium hypochlorite solution.
This involves passing a small supply (1% of total ballast flow) of seawater, either from the incoming ballast water line or sea cooling water, through electrolytic cells. The resulting disinfectant solution is injected directly into the incoming ballast water line where it will oxidize potential aquatic invasive species. The third and final treatment process phase is residual oxidant neutralization to ensure environmental acceptability. When the treated ballast water is ready to be discharged, sodium thiosulfate is injected directly into the ballast water discharge line.
