Including Specific Material Of Construction Patents (Class 422/240)
  • Patent number: 7704465
    Abstract: Aluminum hydroxide aggregated particles which have an average particle diameter of not less than 40 ?m, an average particle diameter as determined after pressing at 1,000 kg/cm2 of not more than 35 ?m, and an L value of slurry obtained by mixing 20 ml of glycerol and 10 g of the aluminum hydroxide aggregated particles of not more than 69, are obtained by a process comprising the steps of: (a) feeding a supersaturated aqueous sodium aluminate solution to a vessel, (b) adding aluminum hydroxide seeds to the supersaturated aqueous sodium aluminate solution, (c) stirring the seed-added solution in the vessel while continuously feeding an additional supersaturated aqueous sodium aluminate solution into the vessel to hydrolyze the supersaturated aqueous sodium aluminate solution, (d) separating the aluminum hydroxide aggregated particles from the aqueous sodium aluminate solution, and (e) continuously discharging the aqueous sodium aluminate solution out of the vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: Sumitomo Chemical Company, Limited
    Inventors: Hisakatsu Kato, Masashi Wada, Naoyuki Eguchi, Hirofumi Sasaki
  • Patent number: 7691337
    Abstract: A container for thermal conditioning of a fluid under pressure, use of the container for thermally conditioning a fluid under pressure, a chemical reactor including the container and a polymerization process using the reactor, and a method of producing the container and the reactor. The container is bounded over at least part of its surface facing the outside by at least one external plate and facing the inside by at least one internal plate, the external plate being thicker than the internal plate, the external plate and the internal plate being joined together in places to define a space between joints for circulation of a heat-transfer fluid and the container including a mechanism to adjust the pressure of the heat-transfer fluid to that of the fluid under pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: SOLVAY (Societe Anonyme)
    Inventors: Jean-Paul Bindelle, Philippe Guiche, Manuel De Francisco, Daniel Borremans, Thierry Cartage
  • Publication number: 20100055769
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a biotechnological device including a responsive hydrogel permeation layer with an intrinsic structural gradient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2007
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.
    Inventors: Ralph Kurt, Dick Jan Broer, Roel Penterman, Emiel Peeters
  • Patent number: 7666367
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device equipped with a burner for combusting a fuel/oxidant mixture inside a combustion chamber in which a material (3, 3?, 3?, 3??) is provided that endures a maximum temperature. The inventive device also comprises one or more supply lines (25, 26) for the fuel as well as for the oxidant which are provided for supplying the same into the combustion chamber. The inventive device is characterized in that it is designed for carrying out a combustion with a combustion temperature of the fuel/oxidant mixture that exceeds the maximum temperature. The device is designed in such a way that at least one additional supply line (30) is provided via which an additional gas having, in particular, a low calorific value can be supplied to the combustion chamber. Said additional gas enables the temperature during combustion to be lowered to a value that is less than the maximum temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: SGL Carbon AG
    Inventors: Franz Durst, Jürgen Künzel
  • Publication number: 20100028499
    Abstract: A container (22) includes a shell (24) made from a polymer, for example PET, and incorporating a catalyst, for example a palladium catalyst. A closure (40) incorporates a plug which includes a source of hydrogen, for example a hydride. In use, with container (22) including a beverage and closure (40) in position, the headspace in the container will be saturated with water vapor. This vapor contacts the hydride associated with plug (42) and as a result the hydride produces molecular hydrogen which migrates into the polymer matrix of shell (24) and combines with oxygen which may have entered the container through its permeable walls. A reaction between the hydrogen and oxygen takes place, catalysed by the catalyst, and water is produced. Thus, oxygen which may ingress the container is scavenged and the contents of the container are protected from oxidation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2008
    Publication date: February 4, 2010
    Inventors: Mark Rule, Ronald J. Valus, Steven Burgess Tattum
  • Publication number: 20100028737
    Abstract: A design for a microchannel steam microreformer has been developed to provide power in conjunction with a micro fuel cell for a portable, low-power device. The design is optimized for low pumping power and rapid operation as well as thermal efficiency, overall size, and complete generation of the available hydrogen. The design includes at least one microchannel having a grooved surface with a continuous groove oriented in a spiral configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2007
    Publication date: February 4, 2010
    Applicant: William Marsh Rice University
    Inventors: Yildiz Bayazitoglu, Jeremy Gernand
  • Publication number: 20090311165
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for generating carbon monoxide and in particular a device for testing carbon monoxide detectors which utilises the method and apparatus for generating carbon monoxide. A layer of Activated Carbon Cloth is heated so that it produces small quantities of carbon monoxide. The Activated Carbon Cloth may be provided in a removable cassette.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2006
    Publication date: December 17, 2009
    Inventor: Harvey Podgorney
  • Publication number: 20090297412
    Abstract: Disclosed is a solid/liquid reaction process comprising the steps of: a) forming a slurry of a solid and a solution containing a species (SA) reactive with the solid and convertible to a species in the gas phase (SG); b) conducting a reaction between the solid and the species SA in a slurry in a vessel; and c) controlling a process condition of the slurry to minimise reactive conversion of species SA to species SG. Reactive conversion of species SA to species SG in the vessel is minimised by the placement of laminar slurry cover buoyant with respect to the slurry in the vessel. A process of particular importance is the process of cyanidation of gold ores in which reactive conversion of aqueous cyanide (CNaq?) to HCN (g) is a particular problem. A vessel (1, 2, 3) and leach circuit for conducting the solid/liquid process is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2005
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Applicant: SONS OF GWALIA LTD
    Inventor: Dale Harrison
  • Patent number: 7622088
    Abstract: A rapid start reactor is provided that can be used, for example, in a water gas shift reactor of a fuel processor. A reactor has a catalyst support structure with one or more surfaces overlaid with an active coating that includes a catalyst. The active coating heats upon exposure to a non-thermal energy source. The reactor also includes a generator of non-thermal energy for applying non-thermal energy to the active coating. Methods for operating such a reactor during transient and/or start-up conditions are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Inventors: Gerald E. Voecks, Paul Taichiang Yu
  • Publication number: 20090241518
    Abstract: In one aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a system for reacting with sulfuric acid. The system may include a housing having an inlet and an outlet and may also include a component disposed downstream of the inlet and upstream of the outlet. The component may be configured to restrict a flow of fluid through the housing as a function of sulfuric acid present within the fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2008
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Inventors: James Richard Weber, Thomas Jeffrey Crowell, Hind Malaeb Abi-Akar
  • Publication number: 20090221846
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for preparing isocyanates and an apparatus suitable for this purpose, and also its use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2006
    Publication date: September 3, 2009
    Applicant: BASF SE
    Inventors: Andreas Wölfert, Carsten Knösche, Andreas Daiss, Tsung-Chieh Cheng, Torsten Mattke, Eckhard Stroefer
  • Publication number: 20090191102
    Abstract: A microreactor assembly [100] is provided comprising a fluidic interconnect backbone [10] and plurality of fluidic microstructures. Interconnect input/output ports [12] of the fluidic interconnect backbone [10] are interfaced with microchannel input/output ports [14] of the fluidic microstructures at a plurality of non-polymeric interconnect seals [50]. Interconnect microchannels [15] are defined entirely by the fluidic interconnect backbone [10] and extend between the non-polymeric interconnect seals [50] without interruption by additional sealed interfaces. At least one of the fluidic microstractures [20, 30, 40] may comprise a mixing microstructure formed by a molding process. Another of the fluidic microstructures [20, 30, 40] may comprise an extruded reactor body. Still another fluidic microstructure [20, 30, 40] may comprise a quench-flow or hydrolysis microreactor formed by a hot-pressing method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2009
    Publication date: July 30, 2009
    Inventors: Jean-Pierre Henri Rene Lereboullet, Olivier Lobet, Yann P. M. Nedelec, Ronan Tanguy
  • Publication number: 20090162265
    Abstract: A microreactor assembly comprising a fluidic interconnect backbone and plurality of fluidic microstructures is provided. The fluidic microstructures are supported by respective portions of the fluidic interconnect backbone, The microreactor assembly comprises a plurality of non-polymeric interconnect seals associated with the interconnect input and output ports. The interconnect input port of the fluidic interconnect backbone is interfaced with the microchannel output port of a first fluidic microstructure at one of the non-polymeric interconnect seals. The interconnect output port of the fluidic interconnect backbone is interfaced with the microchannel input port of a second fluidic microstructure at another of the non-polymeric interconnect seals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2008
    Publication date: June 25, 2009
    Inventors: Stephane Poissy, Ronan Tanguy
  • Patent number: 7541007
    Abstract: Microreactor for carrying out methanol reforming for hydrogen production. The microreactor consists of a network of catalyst-packed parallel microchannels of cross-sectional dimensions from 400 to 1000 micrometers with a catalyst particle filter near the outlet fabricated by micromachining techniques, e.g., using photolithography and deep-reactive ion etching (DRIE) on a silicon substrate. Microchannel and filter capping, on-chip heating and temperature sensing, introduction and trapping of catalyst particles in the microchannels, flow distribution, microfluidic interfacing and thermal insulation are features of the microreactor. Another microreactor consists of a radial-flow configuration utilizing a annular shaped catalyst zone for carrying out reactions between gases introduced into the microreactor as the gases flow from an inner circular boundary to an outer circular boundary in a radial direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2009
    Assignee: Lehigh University
    Inventors: Ashish V. Pattekar, Mayuresh V. Kothare
  • Patent number: 7537744
    Abstract: An improved process for ammonia recovery is provided for the recovery of substantially pure ammonia for use in industrial processes. In this improved method, specific raw materials and/or specific materials of construction are used. Overall efficiency and operational cost savings are increased as a result of the process of the present invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Assignee: Rohm and Haas Company
    Inventors: Abraham Benderly, Keith Frederick Briegel, Michael Stanley DeCourcy, Ronald Eugene Myers
  • Publication number: 20090131732
    Abstract: A composition for destruction of unused or expired medicines comprised of: an acidic solvent; a dishwashing liquid; and activated carbon. The acidic solvent can be distilled vinegar, lemon juice, hydrochloric acid, diluted hydrochloric acid, acetic acid, diluted acetic acid, bleach, ammonia, alcohol, and combinations thereof, the dishwashing liquid includes at least one anionic surfactant, at least one nonionic surfactant, and cocinin, and the activated carbon is selected can be powdered activated carbon or granulated activated carbon, typically with a surface area of at least approximately 500 square meters per gram. The composition can further include fragrance and/or coloring. The components of the composition can also be sold individually or one or more components can be sold together with a container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2007
    Publication date: May 21, 2009
    Inventor: Sherry Day
  • Patent number: 7524481
    Abstract: The present invention is related to an apparatus for the production of inorganic fullerene-like (IF) nanoparticles and nanotubes. The apparatus comprises a chemical reactor, and is further associated with a feeding set up and with a temperature control means for controlling the temperature along the reaction path inside the reactor so as to maintain the temperature to be substantially constant. The invention is further directed to a method for the synthesis of IF-WO3 nanoparticles having spherical shape and having a size up to 0.5 mu m and nanotubes having a length of up to several hundred mu m and a cross-sectional dimension of up to 200 nanometer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2009
    Assignee: Yeda Research and Development Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Reshef Tenne, Yishay Feldman, Alla Zak, Rita Rosentsveig
  • Publication number: 20090074637
    Abstract: Passively aligned modular microfluidic devices, and a method for fabricating such passively aligned polymeric modular microfluidic devices have been reported. The modular units fabricated are plurality of integrated microdevices. Also reported are microfluidic devices wherein isolated temperature zones exist so that the temperature within each zone may be distinctly and accurately controlled, and a method for fabricating such microfluidic devices wherein there are isolated temperature zones so that the temperature within each zone may be distinctly and accurately controlled. Such devices allow one to define constant temperature zones along a microfluidic channel where different reactions or stages of reactions occur.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2008
    Publication date: March 19, 2009
    Inventors: Michael C. Murphy, Dimitris E. Nikitopoulos, Steven A. Soper, Pin-Chuan Chen, Daniel S.-W. Park, Mateusz L. Hupert
  • Publication number: 20090023610
    Abstract: A microfluidic flow cell for removably interfacing with a removable-member for performing a reaction therebetween. The microfluidic flow cell device comprises at least one reaction portion defining with the removable-member a reaction chamber when in an interfaced position thereof. The microfluidic flow cell comprises at least one fluid-receiving portion for receiving a fluid therein and being in fluid communication with the reaction chamber. When the microfluidic flow cell and the removable-member are in the interfaced position, the cell is adapted to allow for the fluid in the fluid-receiving portion to flow to the reaction chamber. Devices, systems and methods comprising this microfluidic flow cell are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2005
    Publication date: January 22, 2009
    Inventor: Regis Peytavi
  • Publication number: 20090016943
    Abstract: An apparatus for mixing a compound that hardens when cured, the apparatus allowing for rapid removal of the compound after hardening. A mixing pad is a thick, flexible sheet that has anti-adhesion properties. The mixing pad is supported by a support device that has a rigid support surface that maintains the planar configuration of the work surface of the pad. The support device includes means for securing the mixing pad to a support surface of the device. In one embodiment, the support device includes a compartment for storing the mixing pad. The compartment is also configured for being a mold to form the pad. In another embodiment, the support device has a support surface with protrusions that engage openings in the pad, thereby securing the pad to the support device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2007
    Publication date: January 15, 2009
    Inventors: Paul Francis, Maurice Rogers
  • Publication number: 20080287585
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to the fields of chemistry and molecular biology. More particularly, the present invention relates to thermally-conductive compositions and reaction tubes for chemical- and biochemical-based analytical processing. Compositions and reaction tubes in accordance with the invention comprise at least one plastic and at least one compound having a higher thermal conductivity than the at least one plastic to result in compositions and tubes having increased thermal conductivity when compared to the at least one plastic alone. Such compositions and tubes are capable of facilitating rapid heat transfer in numerous heat transfer applications. The thermally-conductive compositions and reaction tubes are especially suitable for containing reaction constituents during thermal cycling of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2007
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventor: Larry R. BROWN
  • Patent number: 7452511
    Abstract: A novel chlorine dioxide production apparatus, or reactor, is disclosed. The reactor receives reactants from two or more feed pipes under pressure, and the reactants react in a reaction chamber that operates under elevated pressure and within a specified temperature range. A gaseous product, such as chlorine dioxide, is generated and is released directly into a liquid stream for bleaching, disinfection, and other purposes. Also disclosed is a novel system for production of quantities of chlorine compounds from commercial grades of starting materials, and methods of using the reactor in situ for bleaching, and for disinfection, decontamination, and sterilization of flows of water or other liquids. An automated system for multiple points of addition of chlorine dioxide to a flow to be treated is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2008
    Inventors: Wilfried J. Schmitz, David Francis
  • Patent number: 7452392
    Abstract: This invention is a reactor and a process for the conversion of organic waste material such as municipal trash, sewage, post-consumer refuse, and biomass to commercially salable materials. The invention produces the following: 1. Maximum energy conversion from the organic material 2. High volume consumption of the organic feed material 3. Less pollution of gaseous products than prior art systems 4. Solid residuals for disposal are minimal and non-hazardous. The conversion is accomplished by combining anaerobic gasification and pyrolysis of the feed organic material and making it into synthetic gas. The synthetic gas is a mixture of hydrocarbons (CxHy), hydrogen, and carbon monoxide with small amounts of carbon dioxide and nitrogen. An essential feature of the invention is a hot driver gas, devoid of free oxygen and rich in water, which supplies the entire thermal and chemical energy needed for the reactions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2008
    Inventors: Peter A. Nick, Hugh Hunnicutt, Robert Roy Peters, Eric A. Anderson, Geoffrey E. Dolbear
  • Patent number: 7449037
    Abstract: A method for carrying out endothermic or exothermic gas phase reactions by using a tube bundle reactor with a tube bundle of catalyst-filled reaction tubes comprises the following steps: a) Introducing a reaction gas mixture into the reaction tubes; b) Dividing-up of the reaction gas mixture flow flowing through each of the reaction tubes into at least two partial flows, each partial flow having the same composition; c) Feeding-in of each partial flow at a different point along the catalyst filling with an existing flow resistance; d) Determining the desired partial flow volume for each partial flow (V1, V2, V3, V4); e) Calculating the pressure at the point of the first division of the reaction gas mixture (9); f) Calculating the pressure in the catalyst filling (12) at the point of feeding-in of each partial flow (V1, V2, V3, V4); and g) Setting of flow resistance for each point of feeding-in in such a way that the flow resistance at the desired partial flow volume corresponds to the pressure difference bet
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Assignee: MAN DWE GmbH
    Inventors: Manfred Lehr, Franz Egner, Michael Claussen, Markus Maly
  • Publication number: 20080267836
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a composite internal in a circulating fluidized bed reactor, comprising guide plates, disturbing plates and 2 to 30 round tubes, wherein the guide plate (3) is secured with its one side to the round tube (1), and the disturbing plate (4) is secured with its one side to the round tube (1) and with its another side to another side of said guide plate (3), with an angle of 50 to 90° included between the guide plate (3) and disturbing plate (4). The round tubes (1) each provided with respective guide plate and disturbing plate are fixed together at one end, and said 2 to 30 round tubes (1) are arranged in one and the same plane. The other end of each round tube (1) is arranged in a radiate manner with respect to the fixed point as a center, and an angle included between each round tube (1) is different from or equal to each other, in a range of 100 to 180°.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2008
    Publication date: October 30, 2008
    Applicant: Institute of Processing Engineering, Chinese Academy of Science
    Inventors: Tingyu Zhu, Jingdong He, Pengfei Jing
  • Publication number: 20080247939
    Abstract: The invention provides a process for producing carbon nanotubes which includes supplying a continuous fluidized feed of a catalyst and at least one hydrocarbon to a reactor operating under conditions suitable to produce carbon nanotubes. The fluid is made to flow though the reactor with a swirling motion which ensures that the internal surfaces of the reactor are cleaned of deposits.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2006
    Publication date: October 9, 2008
    Applicant: UNIVERSITY OF THE WITWATERSRAND, JOHANNESBURG
    Inventor: Sunny Esayegbemu Iyuke
  • Publication number: 20080248344
    Abstract: A ceramic microreactor for carrying out reactions having a large heat of reaction which has at least three interior spaces, with at least one interior space having internal buffers whose shape, number and positioning ensure homogeneous flow, is described. The microreactor is built up as a monolith from at least seven plate-shaped layers of inert ceramic material, preferably aluminium oxide, which form an upper heating/cooling space, a central reaction space and a lower heating/cooling space. One interior space has a coating of a catalyst comprising noble metal. The shape, number and positioning of the internal buffers is determined by means of flow simulation calculations; the internal buffers preferably have a lozenge shape. The microreactor displays very good selectivity in reactions having a large heat of reaction, in particular in heterogeneous gas-phase reactions, and is used in particular for hydrogen production and/or hydrogen purification in fuel cell technology.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2006
    Publication date: October 9, 2008
    Inventors: Carsten Schmitt, David Agar, Frank Platte, Beate Pawlowski, Peter Rothe, Hans-Georg Reitz, Matthias Duisberg
  • Publication number: 20080248586
    Abstract: The invention relates to a reaction vessel, a reaction vessel liquid introducing device, a liquid introducing and reaction measuring device, and a liquid introducing device, and is directed to being able to perform temperature control of a liquid stored within the reaction vessel with a high accuracy and faithful responsiveness. The reaction vessel comprises: a storage chamber in which a liquid is storable, that has an opening part; a reaction chamber that is formed thinner or narrower than the storage chamber; and at least one flow passage that communicates between the storage chamber or the exterior and the reaction chamber. The reaction vessel is formed such that it is connectable to a liquid introducing section provided externally, and the liquid can be introduced into the reaction chamber by connecting to the liquid introducing section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2005
    Publication date: October 9, 2008
    Applicant: UNIVERSAL BIO RESEARCH CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Hideji Tajima
  • Publication number: 20080241019
    Abstract: Provided is a reaction vessel for a fuel cell, and more particularly to a reaction vessel exhibiting improved thermal efficiency, and a reaction device for a steam reforming reaction for a fuel cell. The reaction device includes a cylindrical reaction catalyst chamber on which a target reaction catalyst for a predetermined target reaction is disposed; and a tubular oxidation catalyst chamber surrounding the reaction catalyst chamber, comprising an oxidation reaction catalyst therein. The reaction device according features an increased contact area between catalyst and gas, and rapidly heating of the gas in contact with the catalyst to a desired reaction temperature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2007
    Publication date: October 2, 2008
    Inventors: Sung-chul Lee, Ju-yong Kim, Yong-kul Lee, Man-seok Han, Jun-sic Kim, Chan-ho Lee, Jin-goo Ahn
  • Publication number: 20080233022
    Abstract: A method of fabricating silicon parts are provided herein. The method includes growing a silicon sample, machining the sample to form a part, and annealing the part by exposing the part sequentially to one or more gases. Process conditions during silicon growth and post-machining anneal are designed to provide silicon parts that are particularly suited for use in corrosive environments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventors: Elmira Ryabova, Jie Yuan, Jennifer Sun
  • Publication number: 20080228002
    Abstract: Materials for making apparatus and a method of inhibiting polymerization during manufacture, purification, handling and storage of subject ethylenically unsaturated monomers are disclosed. In particular, copper or metals containing copper, in the presence of oxygen, have inhibit undesired polymerization resulting in polymer fouling in apparatus used during the manufacture, purification, handling and storage of the monomers, such as acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, acrylic acid esters and methacrylic acid esters. The copper or copper alloys as described herein, in the presence of an oxygen-containing gas, exhibit self-inhibiting surface characteristics when used to make at least a portion of the apparatus to inhibit polymerization of the monomers in contact with the portion of the apparatus including such copper-containing metal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2003
    Publication date: September 18, 2008
    Inventors: Salvador Aldrett-Lee, Diane E. Allen, Olan Stanley Fruchey, Roger L. Roundy, Tao Wang
  • Publication number: 20080187470
    Abstract: A chemical processing apparatus that utilizes a ceramic media sintered at a lower temperature than the apparatus' maximum exposure temperature is described. The media's physical and chemical properties may contribute to its thermal stability when exposed to temperatures that exceed the media's sintering temperature by at least 50° C.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventor: John Stewart Reid
  • Publication number: 20080181829
    Abstract: A microfluidic reactor cartridge having glass capillary tubing wound in a coil and surrounded by a ceramic housing capable use in high temperatures and method for using same. In another embodiment, the microfluidic cartridge is a serpentine reactor cartridge with a serpentine microreactor channel formed in a ceramic housing. The serpentine reactor cartridge has an inlet tube attached to its inlet port and an outlet tube attached to its outlet port. The inlet port is a macro/micro interface and the outlet port is a micro/macro interface useful in gas phase reactions where solids must be used to produce a reactant. The method for using a microfluidic reactor cartridge includes two phases, the first phase for producing a radioactive labeled gas such as methyl iodide and the second phase is a methylation reaction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2007
    Publication date: July 31, 2008
    Inventor: Joseph C. Matteo
  • Patent number: 7381384
    Abstract: Insulating members are provided for use in nozzles of elevated temperature process vessels employing a structural metal shell (24), an insulating refractory lining (14) and a corrosion-resistant membrane (18) lining between the structural shell and refractory lining. The insulating members comprise pre-formed insulating sleeves and inserts and are made of a thermally insulating material having sufficient thickness and sufficiently low thermal conductivity such that, when the sleeve or insert is heated by the process temperature during operation of the vessel, the thermal energy transmitted through the sleeve or insert to the membrane is insufficient to raise the temperature of the membrane above a target temperature. The most preferred thermally insulating materials are fluoropolymers such as poly(tetrafluoroethylene) flouropolymer resins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Assignee: Hatch Ltd.
    Inventors: Kevin S. Fraser, Patrick Henry Lauzon, Arthur W Cooper, Albert J. Koning
  • Patent number: 7338645
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method and system for reducing the formation of metal catalyzed side-reaction byproducts formed in the feed vaporization and introduction system of a methanol to olefin reactor system by forming and/or coating one or more of the heating devices, feed lines or feed introduction nozzles of/with a material that is resistant to the formation of metal catalyzed side reaction byproducts. The invention also may include monitoring and/or maintaining the temperature of at least a portion of the feed vaporization and introduction system and/or of the feedstock contained therein below about 400° C., 350° C., 300° C., 250° C., 200° C. or below about 150° C. The temperature can be maintained in the desired range by jacketing at least a portion of the feed vaporization and introduction system, such as at least a portion of the feed introduction nozzle, with a thermally insulating material or by implementing a cooling system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2008
    Assignee: ExxonMobil Chemical Patents Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey P. Jones, Kenneth Ray Clem, Stephen N. Vaughn, Teng Xu, Jeffrey L. White
  • Publication number: 20070274883
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a catalytic converter element having a plurality of essentially parallel channels through which gas flows during operation of the catalytic converter element. The channels are bordered by channel walls which have a catalytically active coating arranged thereon in at least some areas where it is exposed to the gas. In some channels the coating thus begins with an axial offset from the admission end. This allows an improved temperature management within the catalytic converter element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2007
    Publication date: November 29, 2007
    Inventor: Guenter Eberspach
  • Publication number: 20070154367
    Abstract: The invention relates to a reforming apparatus made of LTCC and a manufacturing method therefor. The reforming apparatus includes an upper cover made of ceramic material, having a fuel inlet at one side thereof, and an evaporator made of ceramic layers formed integrally with the upper cover, having a flow path to gasify fuel introduced through the upper cover. In the reforming apparatus, a reformer made of ceramic layers is formed at one side of the evaporator, having a catalyst in a flow path thereof to reform fuel gas entering from the evaporator into hydrogen. A CO remover made of ceramic layers is formed integrally with the reformer, having a catalyst to remove CO from reformed gas entering from the reformer. A lower cover is formed integrally at one side of the CO remover, having a reformed gas outlet to emit the reformed gas to the outside.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2006
    Publication date: July 5, 2007
    Inventors: Jae Hyuk Jang, Woo Jae Kim, Jeong Hoon Oh, Chan Hwa Chung, Young Soo Oh, Jae Hyoung Gil
  • Patent number: 7189378
    Abstract: A unique, micro-miniature reaction chamber template structure is disclosed for the fabrication of nanoscale molecular systems and devices. The structure is composed of multiple layers of silicon (either doped or intrinsic), Pyrex and various metals. The silicon may or may not be totally or partially covered with silicon dioxide. The Pyrex is chosen to be suitable for field-assisted bonding to silicon and the various metal layers are selected for their adherence to silicon or Pyrex, as well as their conductivity and their chemical reactivity. The basis structure may contain a number of tubes or fluidic pipes of varying cross sections. The structure consists of a layer of silicon bonded to a layer of Pyrex, which is in turn bonded to another layer of silicon and therefore, there is a composite structure which consists of a laminate of silicon glass and silicon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2007
    Assignee: Kulite Semiconductor Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Anthony D. Kurtz
  • Patent number: 7182923
    Abstract: A device has a reaction chamber with at least one feed inlet (5) and at least one evacuation outlet (10). An outside jacket (2a) that is resistant to internal pressure is positioned around the device and contains at least one module (44) through which a reagent and formed products circulate. The module (44) has walls (11) and (12) made of refractory material that are included in a sealed jacket (40). The sealed jacket (40) is connected by a flexible connection to the jacket (2a) and to a heat exchanger that is also linked to the module (44) and to the jacket (2a) by a flexible connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Assignee: Institut Francais du Petrole
    Inventors: Lenglet Eric, Luc Nougier, Stéphane Bertholin, Jacques Alagy, Michel Cohen, Jean Luc Le Peutrec
  • Patent number: 7141085
    Abstract: The refractory protected, replaceable insert for a gasifier includes a replaceable floor edge insert that is formed with a predetermined mating profile that is complementary to a finished mating profile of the gasifier floor. The geometry of the mating profiles of the replaceable floor edge insert and the gasifier floor permit removable engagement between the floor edge insert and the mating profile of the gasifier floor. The replaceable floor edge insert is protected by a ring-like arrangement of hanging refractory bricks that each include an appendage. Each brick appendage covers a portion of the inner radial edge of the replaceable floor edge insert and also covers an upper surface portion of an underlying quench ring, thus prolonging the life of the floor and the quench ring. A refractory ceramic fiber paper can be provided between the hanging brick and the floor edge and quench ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2006
    Assignees: Texaco Inc., Texaco Development Corporation
    Inventors: John Corwyn Groen, John D. Winter
  • Patent number: 7141223
    Abstract: A fuel reformer for reforming hydrocarbon base fuel into hydrogen rich gas, with one embodiment comprised of material containing at least 15 to 25% by mass Cr, 8 to 35% by mass Ni, 2 to 4% by mass Si and the remainder Fe and inevitable impurities (C, Mn, P, S or others). The material provides sigma brittleness resistance and cementation resistance, and provides a reformer that is lightweight, low-cost, highly reliable and durable. A second embodiment adds to the composition 0.05 to 1% by mass Nb, providing improved oxidation resistance, cementation resistance, intergranular corrosion resistance, with further improved reliability and durability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2006
    Assignee: Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masataka Kadowaki, Akira Fuju
  • Patent number: 7125528
    Abstract: An apparatus for separating oxygen from an oxygen-containing gas and facilitating a chemical reaction with the separated oxygen includes a mixed conducting membrane, a porous body, and a material for catalyzing the reaction. The mixed conducting membrane has respective oxidation and reduction surfaces and is made of a non-porous, gas-impermeable, solid material capable of simultaneously conducting oxygen ions and electrons. At least the membrane and the catalyzing material are non-reactive with each other or are physically separated from each other during oxygen separation and the chemical reaction. The apparatus can be embodied by tubes, and a plurality of such tubes can form part of a reaction vessel in which various chemical reactions can occur benefiting from the apparatus design.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Assignee: BP Corporation North America Inc.
    Inventors: Charles J. Besecker, Terry J. Mazanec, Sherman J. Xu, Erling Rytter
  • Patent number: 7125913
    Abstract: Disclosed are methods and apparatus for producing synthesis gas and higher hydrocarbons from light hydrocarbons and molecular oxygen as well as the higher hydrocarbons produced by the disclosed methods and apparatus. The methods and apparatus disclosed utilize components comprising nickel and nickel alloys.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Assignee: ConocoPhillips Company
    Inventors: Chien-Ping Pan, Harold A. Wright
  • Patent number: 7084084
    Abstract: Highly durable silica glass comprising silica having incorporated therein aluminum and at least one element (M) selected from group 2A elements, group 3A elements and group 4A elements of the periodic table. Preferably, the sum of aluminum and element (M) is at least 30 atomic % based on the amount of total metal elements in the silica glass, and the atomic ratio of aluminum to element (M) is in the range of 0.05 to 20. The silica glass has a high purity and exhibits enhanced durability while good processability and machinability, and reduced dusting property are kept, and the glass is suitable for members of a semiconductor production apparatus or liquid crystal display production apparatus using a halogenated gas and/or its plasma.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2006
    Assignees: Tosoh Corporation, Tosoh Quartz Corporation, Tosoh SGM Corporation
    Inventors: Kazuyoshi Arai, Tsutomu Takahata, Shinkichi Hashimoto, Hideaki Kiriya, Yoshinori Harada
  • Patent number: 7070634
    Abstract: A plasma reformer for the chemical reforming of gaseous mixtures of water and hydrocarbon fuels for producing hydrogen. The reformer contains a reaction chamber with outer lateral walls containing emitter electrodes and inner lateral walls containing collector electrodes. The emitter electrodes and collector electrodes form an electric circuit. There are a multiplicity of thin needle-like extrusions on the emitter electrode from which a profusion of high energy electrons are emitted. These high-energy electrons dissociate the hydrocarbon fuel through absorption and ionization emitting low energy electrons in the process. These low energy electrons cause dissociation of water. Thus, dissociation of hydrocarbon fuel acts to initiate dissociation of water. The molar ratio of water to hydrocarbon fuel in the input mixture for reactions, and therefor the production of hydrogen from water, increases with carbon number of the hydrocarbon fuel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2006
    Inventor: Chi S. Wang
  • Patent number: 7070751
    Abstract: The present invention provides a reactor for the gas-phase reaction of commercially available gases in the presence of an inert carrier gas to form product gas. The reactor has a streamlined, compact configuration and at least one solids collection and removal system downstream of the reactor, where solids are efficiently removed from the product gas stream, leaving high purity product gas. The removal system allows for a simple reactor design, which is easy to clean and operates continuously over longer periods of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2006
    Assignee: Bristol-Myers Squibb Co.
    Inventors: Srinivas Tummala, Shun Wang Leung, Ehrlic T. Lo, Mario Moisés Alvarez
  • Patent number: 7052658
    Abstract: A hydrogen generation cartridge preferably includes a munitions casing, a hydrogen producing chemical reactant within the casing, and an outlet for releasing hydrogen produced in the casing. A portable hydrogen generator preferably includes a chamber for receiving a plurality of hydrogen generation cartridges, and control electronics for selectively operating the hydrogen generation cartridges in the chamber. The cartridges individually produce hydrogen under control of the control electronics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, LP.
    Inventors: Alan R. Arthur, Phil Harding
  • Patent number: 7008598
    Abstract: A reactor for generating moisture wherein ignition of hydrogen gas, backfire to the gas supply source side, the peeling off of the platinum coat catalyst layer inside are prevented more completely to further increase the safety of the reactor for generating moisture and wherein the dead space in the interior space is reduced to further reduce the size of the reactor shell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Assignees: Fujikin Incorporated, Tadahiro OHMI
    Inventors: Tadahiro Ohmi, Kouji Kawada, Nobukazu Ikeda, Akihiro Morimoto, Yukio Minami, Kenji Tubota, Teruo Honiden, Touru Hirai, Katunori Komehana, Keiji Hirao
  • Patent number: 6984345
    Abstract: A cavity-preventing type reactor and a method for fabricating a preform for a plastic optical fiber using the same, wherein post-process charging of additional monomer or prepolymer into rotationally-induced central cavities is avoided by forming void-free plastic fibers using special geometric flow controllers combined with special materials combinations, pressures, and rotational techniques.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2006
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Han Sol Cho, Jin Taek Hwang, Jin Sung Choi, Sung Hen Cho
  • Patent number: 6977064
    Abstract: An apparatus for performing continuous flow chemical reactions such as oxidation, oxidative dehydrogenation and partial oxidation processes involving a reactor design characterized by controlled/optimized addition of a reactant with the objective of: (i) avoiding the explosion regime of the reactant mixture (e.g., hydrocarbon/oxidant mixture); (ii) maximizing the selectivity of the reaction to the desired product; (iii) limiting the reactor temperature gradient and therefore the threat of reaction runaway; and (iv) controlling the operating temperature of the reaction zone so that desirable temperature range is maintained over the entire zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2005
    Assignee: Saudi Basic Industries Corporation
    Inventors: Alaa Eldin M. Adris, Fahad A. Al-Sherehy, Mustafa A. Soliman, Tarique Hakeem, Shickh Kareemuddin, Abdullah A. Al-Nutaifi, Munawwar Saudagar, Shahid M. Azam