How It Works
The EK-Drive platform shapes the internal conditions of a flowing liquid so particles and dissolved components behave in predictable, controllable ways. Instead of relying on pressure, membranes, or consumable media, EK-Drive uses controlled internal environments — all inside a compact, continuous-operation module.
How It Changes the Flow Path
EK-Drive creates controlled internal environments inside the flow so particles and dissolved components move into clean, separable zones. Instead of relying on pressure, shear, or consumables, the module shapes how materials behave as they travel — enabling bulk movement, clarification, stabilization, or concentration without clog-prone barriers.
The EK‑Drive Module Family
ZetaDrive
The Separation Module
Moves and separates solids, droplets, and charged species using controlled electrokinetic forces.
What It Does
- Concentrates or clarifies high‑solids streams
- Separates particles without shear or pressure
- Handles variability that clogs filters and fouls membranes
Where It Excels
Microalgae, fermentation broth, wastewater solids, black mass slurries, agricultural runoff.
mIonDrive
The Conditioning Module
Tunes the internal environment of a stream to make separation easier, faster, and more efficient.
What It Does
- Adjusts charge conditions for optimal separation
- Pre‑conditions streams before ZetaDrive
- Stabilizes or destabilizes particles without chemicals
Where It Excels
Any stream where chemistry, charge, or stability affects separation performance.
Together, they give operators a level of control that traditional equipment cannot provide.
How the Modules Work Together
- ZetaDrive alone — Bulk solids handling, clarification, or pre-conditioning
- mIonDrive alone — Stabilization, purification, or fine-scale conditioning
- Both modules in series — Multi-stage separation and polishing
- Parallel or hybrid configurations — High-throughput or multi-stream processes
This modularity is what makes EK-Drive a platform, not a single piece of equipment.
What This Enables
- Move and organize particles inside the flow
- Influence dissolved or fine-scale components
- Improve stability or clarity before polishing steps
- Operate continuously with minimal intervention
- Handle variable, real-world streams without constant tuning
What EK-Drive Does Not Do
EK-Drive is precise about its scope:
- Replaces chemicals only when used for separation, clarification, or stabilization — not when a specific chemical reaction is required
- Replaces membranes only when used as mechanical barriers for solids removal — not when molecular selectivity is required
- Replaces centrifuges in many solids-handling applications, but not all
- Reduces filter load and can replace filters in some scenarios, but not universally
How It Compares to Traditional Methods
| Traditional Method | Limitation |
|---|---|
| Filters | Clog, require replacement |
| Centrifuges | High energy, high shear |
| Chemicals | Recurring cost, variable performance |
| Membranes | Fouling, cleaning cycles |
EK-Drive avoids these limitations by influencing the internal environment of the flow — not forcing it through a barrier.
Safe by Design. Easy to Integrate.
- Non-reactive components
- No hazardous byproducts
- Low-voltage system
- Environmentally beneficial by design
- Standard fittings and controls
- Minimal operator intervention