Patents by Inventor Larry D. Wheaton

Larry D. Wheaton 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).

  • Oil shale retorting with steam and produced gas
    Patent number: 5041210
    Abstract: A process for retorting oil shale in a vertical retort. Recycle gas containing steam and produced gas is separated from the retort off-gas and used to heat the oil shale. The steam is present in amount by volume of the recycle gas of at least 40% and preferably 70%. The minimum particle size of the oil shale is such that the particles are retained on a screen having 1/4 inch openings. The maximum particle size is such that the particles are capable of passing through a screen having 3 inch openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1991
    Assignee: Marathon Oil Company
    Inventors: LaVaun S. Merrill, Jr., Larry D. Wheaton