Abstract: The invention providing methods of loading and unloading particulate from micorchannels in apparatus that contains multiple microchannels, typically apparatus that is designed to operate with hundreds or thousands of particulate-containing microchannels. Aligning a sonicating head at one end of a set of microchannels provides a particularly effective mode for densifying particulate in microchannels.

Abstract: The invention describes methods of welding onto laminated devices using a low temperature welding process. Also described are laminated devices with welds that do not disrupt a brazed core block of sheets in the laminated devices. Novel laminated devices with welded features for servicing the devices are also described.

Abstract: The invention provides highly nutritious microgreens in a manner that is highly efficient and easy-to-use even for consumers who are unfamiliar with growing plants. The invention provides plant growing apparatus, plant growing systems including water and plants, plant growing kits, and methods of growing plants. The invention reduces the frequency of watering and produces microgreen yields with surprisingly little water.

Abstract: Systems for culturing mixotrophic microorganisms on a large scale in thermally stable open systems are disclosed. Embodiments of the system include features such as lit portions, dark portions, organic carbon delivery systems, gas delivery systems, submersible thrusters for mixing, and turning vanes for guiding fluid flow. Multi-functional embodiments of the turning vane provide guidance for fluid flow and other functions such as heat exchange, nutrient delivery, gas delivery, organic carbon delivery, delivery of light, and parameter measurement by sensors.

Abstract: Bioreactor systems for culturing mixotrophic microorganisms in open cultures on a large scale are disclosed herein. Embodiments of the system comprise organic carbon delivery systems and submersible thrusters suspended on adjustable support structures.

Abstract: The invention provides methods of making laminated devices (especially microchannel devices) in which plates are assembled and welded together. Unlike conventional microchannel devices, the inventive laminated devices can be made without brazing or diffusion bonding; thus providing significant advantages for manufacturing. Features such as expansion joints and external welded supports are also described. Laminated devices and methods of conducting unit operations in laminated devices are also described.

Abstract: The invention providing methods of loading and unloading particulate from micorchannels in apparatus that contains multiple microchannels, typically apparatus that is designed to operate with hundreds or thousands of particulate-containing microchannels. Aligning a sonicating head at one end of a set of microchannels provides a particularly effective mode for densifying particulate in microchannels.

Abstract: The invention provides methods of making laminated devices (especially microchannel devices) in which plates are assembled and welded together. Unlike conventional microchannel devices, the inventive laminated devices can be made without brazing or diffusion bonding; thus providing significant advantages for manufacturing. Features such as expansion joints and external welded supports are also described. Laminated devices and methods of conducting unit operations in laminated devices are also described.

Abstract: The invention providing methods of loading and unloading particulate from microchannels in apparatus that contains multiple microchannels, typically apparatus that is designed to operate with hundreds or thousands of particulate-containing microchannels. Aligning a sonicating head at one end of a set of microchannels provides a particularly effective mode for densifying particulate in microchannels.

Abstract: Methods of culturing microorganisms in non-axenic mixotrophic conditions are disclosed. A method of culturing microalgae mixotrophically and controlling bacterial contamination with an acetic acid/pH auxostat system is specifically described. Methods of culturing microalgae mixotrophically with an increased productivity through an increase in oxygen transfer to the culture are also described.

Abstract: Methods of culturing mixotrophic microorganisms in a state of balanced gas composition are disclosed. Parameters of a culture of mixotrophic microorganisms may be controlled to reduce the requirements of externally supplied gases and optimize the production and consumption of gases within the culture by the phototrophic and heterotrophic metabolisms of the mixotrophic microorganisms.

Abstract: The invention describes methods of welding onto laminated devices using a low temperature welding process. Also described are laminated devices with welds that do not disrupt a brazed core block of sheets in the laminated devices. Novel laminated devices with welded features for servicing the devices are also described.

Abstract: The invention describes methods of welding onto laminated devices using a low temperature welding process. Also described are laminated devices with welds that do not disrupt a brazed core block of sheets in the laminated devices. Novel laminated devices with welded features for servicing the devices are also described.

Abstract: Methods of culturing mixotrophic microorganisms in a state of balanced gas composition are disclosed. Parameters of a culture of mixotrophic microorganisms may be controlled to reduce the requirements of externally supplied gases and optimize the production and consumption of gases within the culture by the phototrophic and heterotrophic metabolisms of the mixotrophic microorganisms.

Abstract: The invention provides methods of making laminated devices (especially microchannel devices) in which plates are assembled and welded together. Unlike conventional microchannel devices, the inventive laminated devices can be made without brazing or diffusion bonding; thus providing significant advantages for manufacturing. Features such as expansion joints and external welded supports are also described. Laminated devices and methods of conducting unit operations in laminated devices are also described.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods, systems and apparatus in which one fluid passes through an orifice or orifices and mixes with another fluid as it flows through a microchannel.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for culturing microorganisms are described, including culturing in mixotrophic culture conditions. A bioreactor array with multiple culture vessels with independently controllable inputs is used to culture similar cultures of microorganisms in which at least one parameter differs from other culture vessels in the bioreactor array.

Abstract: This invention relates to a process for conducting a hydrocracking or a hydrotreating process in a microchannel reactor. This invention also relates to a process and apparatus for flowing a vapor and liquid into a plurality of microchannels in a microchannel processing unit.

Abstract: This invention relates to a process for converting a carbonaceous material to a desired product comprising methane, methanol and/or dimethyl ether, the process comprising: gasifying the carbonaceous material at a temperature in excess of about 700° C. to form synthesis gas; and flowing the synthesis gas through two or more reaction zones in a microchannel reactor to convert the synthesis gas to the desired product.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for culturing microorganisms are described, including culturing in mixotrophic culture conditions. A bioreactor array with multiple culture vessels with independently controllable inputs is used to culture similar cultures of microorganisms in which at least one parameter differs from other culture vessels in the bioreactor array.