Patents by Inventor Gerald H. Luttrell

Gerald H. Luttrell has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Process and apparatus for separating fine particles by microbubble flotation together with a process and apparatus for generation of microbubbles
    Patent number: 4981582
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for the microbubble flotation separation of very fine particles, especially coal, so as to produce a high purity and large recovery efficiently. This is accomplished through the use of a high aspect ratio flotation column, microbubbles, and a countercurrent use of wash water to gently wash the froth. Also, disclosed are unique processes and apparatus for generating microbubbles for flotation in a high efficient and inexpensive manner using either a porous tube or an in-line static generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 1988
    Date of Patent: January 1, 1991
    Assignee: Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties, Inc.
    Inventors: Roe-Hoan Yoon, Gregory T. Adel, Gerald H. Luttrell