Abstract: The problem of runaway smelt explosions due to a sudden influx of smelt into a dissolving tank is mitigated by a system comprising an ultrasonic transducer configured to emit ultrasonic waves toward the dissolving tank at a frequency above 20 kilohertz. A system comprising the ultrasonic transducer may further comprise sensors and a data processor configured to regulate the properties of the ultrasonic waves in response to process conditions affecting the smelt flow.

Abstract: Process for degrading organic substances in an aqueous composition comprising a step (a) wherein, in a liquid reaction medium, said aqueous composition is reacted with at least one composition comprising hydroxide ions (OH?) and hypochlorite in a molar ratio between hydroxide and hypochlorite higher than or equal to 0.001 and lower than 1.5, in order to oxidize said organic substances.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to processes for recovery of phosphorus values and salt impurities from aqueous waste streams. In particular, the present invention relates to processes for recovery of phosphorus values and salt impurities from aqueous waste streams generated in the manufacture of phospho-herbicides, including N-(phosphonomethyl)glycine and glufosinate.

Abstract: A system and method of concentrating spent caustic at a refinery has a multi-stage flash drum for separating a spent caustic stream into an overhead output stream including vaporized water and volatile organic compounds, and a concentrated spent caustic output stream. The system also has a condenser for condensing the overhead output stream, and a separator for separating the condensed overhead output stream into a volatile organic compound stream, a liquid hydrocarbon stream and a water stream. The system further has an ejector for applying a vacuum to the flash drum to vaporize the spent caustic stream at a reduced temperature, and to the separator to remove the volatile organic compound stream. The volatile organic compounds are removed from the overhead of the separator through the ejector to a burner of a fired heater.

Abstract: A process for recovering caustic alkali from spent alkali liquor, in which a spent alkali liquor and iron oxide are roasted to obtain a product containing alkali ferrate and the product of roasting is hydrolyzed at a temperature over 110.degree. C. and under pressurized conditions where liquid phase is retained, thereby recovering caustic alkali in the form of an aqueous solution of a concentration higher than approximately 15 wt% containing dissolved iron in an extremely small concentration.