Patents Assigned to Ecolab
  • Methods and system for performance assessment of cleaning operations
    Patent number: 12141957
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a process and a system for assessing the performance of cleaning operations by utilizing an automatic read out routine for test strips subjected to a cleaning operation. Furthermore, the present disclosure relates to a computer program product capable of performing the process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2023
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2024
    Assignee: Ecolab USA Inc.
    Inventors: Jan Sanders, Fernanda Furtado de Melo Albino, Sabine Swoboda, Sebastian Niebur, Nadine Göhring, Ann Mangskau, Carola Stingl, Daniel D. Anderson, Florian M. Witt, Christian Lührs, Andreas Krohn, Marc Delling
  • Verification of cleaning process efficacy
    Patent number: 12133619
    Abstract: Experimental color data obtained from a plurality of cleaning process verification coupons is used to determine optimized cleaning process parameters in an automated cleaning machine. Color data may also be obtained from cleaning process verification coupon(s) to verify the efficacy of a real-world cleaning processes in an automated cleaning machine and/or to obtain one or more suggested corrective action(s) in the event the cleaning process yields an unsatisfactory cleaning result. Based on the optimized cleaning process parameters, an automated cleaning machine may automatically adjust one or more cleaning process parameters to correct for non-optimized parameters sensed during execution of a cleaning process to help prevent an unsatisfactory cleaning result.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2024
    Assignee: Ecolab USA Inc.
    Inventors: Rachel Marie McGinness, Conor Sylvester Smith, Paul R. Kraus, Paul Dominic Christian
  • Solidification process using low levels of coupler/hydrotrope
    Patent number: 12134750
    Abstract: The invention includes a solid rinse aid that is particularly designed for extrusion solid formation and which is effective for creating spotless surfaces after rinsing. According to the invention, application has identified the critical combination of solid surfactants, coupling agents, hydrotrope, and hardening agents that is acceptable in the extrusion process to create a solid. The hydrotrope includes one or more short-chain alkylbenzene and/or alkyl naphthalene sulfonates. The composition hardens quickly but not so quick as to negatively impact the extrusion process. The compositions may also be used to form pressed or cast solids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2023
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2024
    Assignee: ECOLAB USA INC.
    Inventors: Janel Marie Kieffer, Katherine Molinaro, Gary Becker, Tobias Foster, Karina Labusga
  • Acidic cleaner
    Patent number: 12134114
    Abstract: Methods and compositions for cleaning industrial equipment (e.g. biofuel or corn ethanol plant equipment) in place at high temperatures using acidic methane sulfonic acid compositions having a low pH.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2022
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2024
    Assignee: ECOLAB USA INC.
    Inventors: Sukhwan Soontravanich, Chris Nagel, Jennifer Stokes, Claire Notermann, James S. Dailey, Thomas B. Gessner, Joseph P. Borst
  • Color changing detergent compositions and methods of use
    Patent number: 12129449
    Abstract: Color changing alkaline warewash detergents containing a pH sensitive indicator are disclosed. In particular, the warewash detergents can change color in alkaline environments. As the soil level increases or detergent decreases, a color change indicates that the warewash machine needs to be drained and refilled. Methods of employing the color changing alkaline detergent compositions are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2024
    Assignee: ECOLAB USA INC.
    Inventors: Carter M. Silvernail, Kerrie E. Walters
  • Pest control device mounting system
    Patent number: 12127545
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for a pest control device mounting system configured for mounting pest control devices in a building and using them to control pests. The pest control device mounting system including a mounting bracket, which may have a circumferential portion defining a portal. In some examples, the mounting bracket includes a flange portion suitable for attaching to the perimeter of a cavity in a building surface. The pest control device mounting system including a plug configured to be removably attached to the mounting bracket and to substantially close the portal when attached to the mounting bracket, wherein the plug is configured to accommodate a pest control device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2022
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2024
    Assignee: Ecolab USA Inc.
    Inventors: Ryan Joseph Drake, Douglas Brian Gardner, Brandon Matthew Carlson, Joshua Lanz, Alexander Roy Nee, Jason David Hedlund, Kenneth Thomas Dobizl
  • Apparatus and method for configuring and opening product packaging
    Patent number: 12129068
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for configuring product packaging and removal of the packaging from a product is disclosed. The labeled product packaging includes a shrink wrap packaging adapted for sealing around a product. A predefined point of failure is configured in the packaging and includes a failure mode for when pulled in at least one direction. A label is sealed to the packaging and adhered to the predefined point of failure in covering relation over the predefined point of failure. Lifting the label from the packaging tears open the packaging starting at the predefined point of failure so the product can be removed from the packaging.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2024
    Assignee: ECOLAB USA INC.
    Inventors: Ryan David Lucey, Christopher John Opelt, David M. Shoberg, Brian P. Carlson, Paul R. Kraus
  • Silica removal reagent for reverse osmosis membrane pretreatment
    Patent number: 12129196
    Abstract: A method of reducing silica fouling in an aqueous system is provided. The method includes adding a composition including a ferric salt and a magnesium salt to an aqueous medium to precipitate silica in the aqueous medium and form a precipitated silica. The method also includes removing at least a portion of the precipitated silica from the aqueous medium to form an aqueous supernatant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2024
    Assignee: Ecolab USA Inc.
    Inventors: Ning Jin, Lingfeng Han, Chunbo Yu
  • Cleaning compositions and methods for removing baked on grease from fryers and other hot surfaces
    Patent number: 12122982
    Abstract: Cleaning compositions and methods of use thereof for cleaning fryers and other hard surfaces soiled by grease, shortening, oils and other soils commonly encountered in the food service industry are disclosed. Cleaning compositions and methods of use which beneficially remove soils from vertical and/or inverted surfaces, reduce the cleaning time required for removing such difficult to remove and baked on soils, reduce exposure to hot surfaces by allowing cleaning at or near room temperature, reduce exposure to caustic chemicals, and/or eliminate the need for personal protective equipment (PPE) for use of the cleaning compositions are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2024
    Assignee: ECOLAB USA INC.
    Inventors: Clinton Hunt, Jr., Benjamin Conway, Victor Fuk-Pong Man, Nathan D. Peitersen, Tsvetelina Baryakova, Owen Kinsky, Kimberly D'Aloia, Deborah Ihns
  • Laundry machine kit to enable control of water levels, recirculation, and spray of chemistry
    Patent number: 12123128
    Abstract: Systems, apparatuses and methods for easily modifying and using a laundry washing machine to recirculate water and spray wash water and cleaning compositions onto textiles in order to optimize water usage, wash temperature, and composition dosage are provided. An apparatus comprising a replacement door window, a spray nozzle, a pump, tubing, and connectors for use in the modified laundry washing machine is further provided. The modification system provides improved cleaning performance and effective cleaning even in low water conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2022
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2024
    Assignee: ECOLAB USA INC.
    Inventors: Loan Paulson-Vu, Jessica Bull, Barry R. Taylor, Lee Monsrud, Kaustav Ghosh, Thomas R. Mohs
  • Non-aqueous cleaner for vegetable oil soils
    Patent number: 12122985
    Abstract: The invention discloses cleaning compositions which employ a synergistic combination of an ester solvent, preferably a fatty acid methyl ester in combination with one or more linear alkyl amines. The alkyl amines act as to remove and suspend organic oils which have been burnt or adhered to a surface with heat and may even be used alone as a soil removal agent. The cleaning compositions have particular use in cleaning of distillation towers associated with biofuel, and vegetable oil refining, but also find use in cleaning ovens, food cooking surfaces and even dry cleaning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2024
    Assignee: ECOLAB USA INC.
    Inventors: Chris Nagel, Eric Victor Schmidt, Mark Levitt, Peter J. Fernholz
  • Solid rinse aid composition comprising polyacrylic acid
    Patent number: 12122984
    Abstract: Solid rinse aid compositions, methods of use, and methods of making said composition are disclosed. Rinse aid is provided by a solidification agent, a sheeting agent, a defoamer component, and a polyacrylic acid homopolymer or alkali metal salt thereof forming a solid compositions. Preferred solidification agents include aromatic sulfonates. Preferred sheeting agents include one or more alcohol ethyoxylates. Preferred defoamer components include a polymer compound including one or more ethylene oxide groups. The solid rinse aid compositions are preferably substantially free of sulfate and sulfate-containing compounds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2023
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2024
    Assignee: ECOLAB USA INC.
    Inventors: Carter M. Silvernail, Erik C. Olson
  • USE OF MODIFIED LIGNIN AS A WET END STRENGTH ADDITIVE
    Publication number: 20240344271
    Abstract: A method of increasing paper strength is provided. The method includes adding a lignin-based compound to a pulp slurry: and adding a cationic polymer to the pulp slurry. When added to a pulp slurry. the combination of a lignin-based compound and a cationic polymer produce a comprehensive paper strength increase.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2022
    Publication date: October 17, 2024
    Applicant: Ecolab USA Inc.
    Inventors: David Steven JORDAN, Heqing HUANG, Weiguo CHENG
  • Water temperature as a means of controlling kinetics of onsite generated peracids
    Patent number: 12114656
    Abstract: Methods and systems for temperature-controlled, on-site generation of peracids, namely peroxycarboxylic acids and peroxycarboxylic acid forming compositions are disclosed. In particular, methods for using an adjustable biocide formulator or generator system overcome the limitations of temperature on the kinetics of the peracid generation and/or peracid decomposition inside an adjustable biocide formulator or generator system. The methods include the controlling of the temperature of at least one raw starting material, namely water, to improve upon methods of on-site generation of peracids. The methods allow for the generation of user-selected chemistry without regard to the ambient temperatures of the raw starting materials and/or the biocide formulator or generator system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2023
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2024
    Assignee: ECOLAB USA INC.
    Inventors: Brandon Herdt, Richard Staub, Thomas C. Rustad, Junzhong Li, David D. McSherry, Paul R. Kraus, Richard Walsh
  • ANTIFOULANT COMPOSITIONS AND METHOD FOR MITIGATING FOULING IN NATURAL GAS PROCESSING EQUIPMENT
    Publication number: 20240336877
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides compositions and method for controlling fouling in a process for cleaning a hydrocarbon gas. The methods may include adding an effective amount of a composition to a conduit including the hydrocarbon gas. The composition includes, for example, various components, additives, and/or solvents. The compositions and methods may also be used for controlling fouling of equipment used during a process for cleaning and compressing a hydrocarbon gas. The equipment may be selected from, for example, a slug catcher, a scrubber, a suction drum, a compressor, and any combination thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2024
    Publication date: October 10, 2024
    Applicant: ECOLAB USA INC.
    Inventors: Jonathan MASERE, Andrew CHORNEY, Ashish DHAWAN, Carter Martin SILVERNAIL
  • Creping process performance tracking and control
    Patent number: 12111644
    Abstract: The disclosure is directed to techniques for tracking data associated with a creping process. The techniques include measuring process data, wherein the process data includes vibration data, and wherein measuring process data includes measuring vibration data of a creping blade using one or more vibration sensors. The techniques further include assigning a score for the process data, including assigning a vibration score for the vibration data. The techniques also include generating an index score based on the score for the process data and the vibration score for the vibration data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2022
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2024
    Assignee: Ecolab USA Inc.
    Inventors: William A. Von Drasek, Gary Samuel Furman
  • ANTIFOULANT FOR REFINERY APPLICATIONS
    Publication number: 20240327696
    Abstract: Antifoulant compositions and methods of using the compositions to control fouling are provided herein. The compositions may be added to a medium, such as crude oil or a crude oil fraction. The medium may include a foulant, such as an asphaltene, and the compositions and methods provided herein are capable of dispersing the foulant, such that fouling of equipment in connection with the medium is controlled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2024
    Publication date: October 3, 2024
    Applicant: Ecolab USA Inc.
    Inventors: Omer GUL, Abuzar SYED
  • Polymer blend to stabilize highly alkaline laundry detergent
    Patent number: 12104142
    Abstract: Liquid detergent compositions with polymer blends to provide a stable aqueous use solution of a highly alkaline detergent composition are provided. The liquid detergent composition include concentrates and use solutions with blends of alkali-swellable polymers (ASE) and hydrophobically-modified alkali-swellable polymers (HASE). Methods for washing textiles using the liquid detergent compositions are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2023
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2024
    Assignee: ECOLAB USA INC.
    Inventors: Jessica Bull, David Dotzauer, Thomas Duerrschmidt, Gregory Scott Conrad, Alyssa Ana Hantzsch, Kelsey West
  • Compositions comprising cellulase with a nonionic surfactant and a quaternary ammonium compound
    Patent number: 12104143
    Abstract: The disclosure is directed to cleaning compositions, methods of making the cleaning compositions, and methods of using the cleaning compositions. The cleaning compositions comprise an enzyme composition, a nonionic surfactant, and a quaternary amine. Preferably, the enzyme compositions included in the cleaning compositions comprise a cellulase, an AA9 polypeptide having cellulolytic enhancing activity, a hemicellulase, an esterase, an expansin, a laccase, a ligninolytic enzyme, a pectinase, a peroxidase, a protease, a swollenin, or a combination or mixture thereof. The compositions are useful for degradation of bacterial cellulose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2023
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2024
    Assignee: Ecolab USA Inc.
    Inventors: Jesse Murphy, Lyndal Jensen
  • Textile bleaching and disinfecting using the mixture of hydrophilic and hydrophobic peroxycarboxylic acid composition
    Patent number: 12104144
    Abstract: Liquid peroxycarboxylic acid laundry compositions, namely bleaching and disinfecting compositions combining mixed peroxycarboxylic acids to provide synergistic efficacy are disclosed. Methods of using the liquid peroxycarboxylic acid laundry compositions for low temperatures and a use pH with detergent and water from about 6 to about 10 are also disclosed. Beneficially, the liquid peroxycarboxylic acid laundry compositions and methods of using the same do not include sulfonated peroxycarboxylic acids and sulfonated carboxylic acid, such as peroxy sulfonated oleic acid/sulfonated oleic acid (PSOA/SOA).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2023
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2024
    Assignee: ECOLAB USA INC.
    Inventors: Junzhong Li, Allison Prideaux, David Dotzauer, Jonathan P. Fast, Richard Staub