Carbon Monoxide Component Patents (Class 423/246)
  • Patent number: 6066303
    Abstract: Gas-phase methods and systems for reducing NOx emissions and other contaminants in exhaust gases, and industrial processes using the same, are disclosed. In accordance with the present invention, hydrocarbon(s) autoignite and autothermally heat an exhaust gas from an industrial process so that NH.sub.3, HNCO or a combination thereof are effective for selectively reducing NOx autocatalytically. Preferably, the reduction of NOx is initiated/driven by the autoignition of hydrocarbon(s) in the exhaust gas. Within the temperature range of about 900-1600.degree. F., the introduced hydrocarbon(s) autoignite spontaneously under fuel-lean conditions of about 2-18% O.sub.2 in the exhaust gas. Once ignited, the reactions proceed autocatalytically, heating the exhaust gas autothermally. Under some conditions, a blue chemiluminescence may be visible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2000
    Assignee: Noxtech, Inc.
    Inventors: Bruce C. Sudduth, Ralph J. Slone, Vishwesh Palekar, Madhu Ramavajjala
  • Patent number: 6060032
    Abstract: A process is set forth for the production of a carbon monoxide stream from a feed stream comprising carbon monoxide, hydrogen, carbon dioxide, methane, nitrogen and moisture. The process comprises contacting the feed stream at elevated pressure with a layered adsorbent bed comprising (i) a pretreatment adsorbent in order to adsorb moisture preferentially over methane, nitrogen and carbon dioxide and (ii) a main adsorbent in order to adsorb carbon monoxide preferentially over hydrogen, carbon dioxide, methane and nitrogen. A key to the present invention is that a carbon-based adsorbent is used as the pretreatment adsorbent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Assignee: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher Thomas Hable, Timothy Christopher Golden, Wilbur Clymer Kratz
  • Patent number: 6051162
    Abstract: A process for the generation of a protective nitrogen-based atmosphere for the performance of heat treatments of metal articles in three phases, including an initial phase in which a gaseous hydrocarbon feed and an oxidant containing oxygen react on a first catalyst to form a reaction product, a second phase in which the reaction product is added to nitrogen contaminated by the presence of oxygen and a third phase in which the reaction product is conveyed to a second catalyst to form a low-dew point gaseous mixture as a protective atmosphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2000
    Assignee: Praxair Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Jaak Stefaan Vandensype, Gianluca Porto
  • Patent number: 6048508
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a process for simultaneously obtaining pure carbon monoxide and pure hydrogen in a steam reformer plant for hydrogen or ammonia generation, having a primary reformer, a secondary reformer and downstream thereof, a CO conversion stage. A part gas stream of the synthesis gas stream, which is discharged from the secondary reformer having a CO content of between 2 and 20 mol. % and is at a temperature of from 200 to 500.degree. C. and a pressure between 15 and 50 bar, is removed between the secondary reformer and the CO conversion stage. The part gas stream is then is cooled to a temperature below 100.degree. C., thereby condensing out the major part of the steam contained in the gas stream. The remaining raw synthesis gas stream is then guided by way of a multistage gas separation plant in which the gas components H.sub.2, residual steam, CH.sub.4, CO.sub.2 and optionally N.sub.2 are separated, either individually or together, from the CO.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2000
    Assignee: Bayer Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Hans-Ulrich Dummersdorf, Hans-Joachim Muller, Dieter Grenner, Gerhard Moormann
  • Patent number: 6033638
    Abstract: A method for adsorbing and oxidizing VOC's in the same bed, thus reducing the size of or even eliminating the need for a catalytic or thermal oxidation unit at the end of the system. In this system, a catalyst is intimately interspersed with the adsorbent material. The catalyst oxidizes VOC's released during desorption when it reaches the `light off temperature,` that is, the catalyst temperature necessary for oxidation to begin. As VOC's are desorbed, they are combusted by the catalyst in the same bed and also by their combustion, heat the bed to aid in the desorption of VOC's elsewhere in the bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Inventors: Larry E. Campbell, Michele W. Sanders
  • Patent number: 6030591
    Abstract: A process for recovery of fluorocompound gas from an effluent gas stream containing the fluorocompound gas and other gas components, in which at least one of the other gas components is removed, e.g., by oxidation or contacting of the effluent stream with a dry material such as an adsorbent or scrubber medium, to yield a first effluent gas mixture containing the fluorocompound gas. The fluorocompound gas is removed from the first effluent gas mixture and recovered as a concentrated fluorocompound gas, by a process such as cryogenic processing, membrane separation, and/or adsorption.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: ATMI Ecosys Corporation
    Inventors: Glenn M. Tom, H. Eric Fisher, W. Karl Olander
  • Patent number: 5993761
    Abstract: Method for conversion of hydrocarbons assisted by gliding electric arcs in the presence of water vapor and/or carbon dioxide.The objective of the process and the plasma assistance device to steam reforming, to the reforming with CO2 or to simultaneous reforming with an H2O/CO2 mixture of hydrocarbons is the production of gases rich in CO and H2, containing also high ratios of C2H2, C2H4 and C3H6, without formation of soot or coke. The process makes it also possible to upgrade the CO2 by converting it into CO in the presence of hydrocarbons.This mixture of valuable products is obtained in a reactor /1/ with electric gliding arcs /4/ which strike directly into an endothermic reaction medium consisting of hydrocarbons mixed with H2O and/or CO2.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Assignee: Laxarco Holding, Ltd.
    Inventors: Piotr Czernichowski, Albin Czernichowski
  • Patent number: 5985222
    Abstract: Gas-phase methods and systems for reducing NOx emissions and other contaminants in exhaust gases, and industrial processes using the same, are disclosed. In accordance with the present invention, hydrocarbon(s) autoignite and autothermally heat an exhaust gas from an industrial process so that NH.sub.3, HNCO or a combination thereof are effective for selectively reducing NOx autocatalytically. Preferably, the reduction of NOx is initiated/driven by the autoignition of hydrocarbon(s) in the exhaust gas. Within the temperature range of about 900-1600.degree. F., the introduced hydrocarbon(s) autoignite spontaneously under fuel-lean conditions of about 2-18% O.sub.2 in the exhaust gas. Once ignited, the reactions proceed autocatalytically, heating the exhaust gas autothermally.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Assignee: NoxTech, Inc.
    Inventors: Bruce C. Sudduth, Ralph J. Slone, Vishwesh Palekar, Madhu Ramavajjala
  • Patent number: 5980843
    Abstract: A catalyzer is provided for promoting chemical reactions, such as the reaction between ammonia and air to produce nitrogen monoxide which, in turn, can be used to manufacture nitric acid or the purification of flue gas from incineration plants. The catalyzer is made by forming a mixture of a combustible pore forming substance, such as a polymer, vegetable material or graphite, and a ceramic material, such as alumina, zirconia, titanium dioxide, silica, tungsten carbides, silicon nitrides and mixtures thereof, and thermally spraying this mixture onto a support net to result in a net having porous ceramic deposited thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Assignee: Katator AB
    Inventor: Fredrik Ahlstrom Silversand
  • Patent number: 5955395
    Abstract: The invention relates to a process for preparing a Pt/zeolite catalyst material, the material itself, and the use of the material in removing carbon monoxide from a gas. In a preferred embodiment, the invention relates to a process for preparing a Pt/zeolite catalyst material for the catalytic removal of CO in H.sub.2 -rich gas by means of selective CO oxidation and the use of such a catalyst material. The catalyst materials of the invention can be prepared by employing Pt(NH.sub.3).sub.4 Cl.sub.2.H.sub.2 O and a zeolite material. The resulting material can be used for the catalytic removal of CO from an H.sub.2 -rich outlet gas mixture from a methanol reforming reactor. The compositions and methods to produce catalytic materials result in products with high and prolonged catalyst activity. In particular, the methods and compositions of the invention can be used in removing CO from the hydrogen fed to fuel cells in electric vehicles having stored methanol fuel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1999
    Assignee: Mercedes-Benz AG
    Inventors: Renato Andorf, Werner Maunz, Carsten Plog, Thomas Stengel
  • Patent number: 5955044
    Abstract: Ultra-high purity hydrogen is produced from a hydrogen stream containing impurities including carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide, by first depleting the stream of carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide, than passing it through a semipermeable membrane such as a palladium-silver membrane, to remove methane, water and other impurities. Preferably, a methanation catalyst is used in the first step to convert the carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide to methane and water. This stream, free of carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide, is then passed through the semipermeable membrane to separate the remaining impurities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1999
    Assignees: Johnson Matthey Inc., Air Products and Chemicals Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey Lucht, Thomas Hsiao-Ling Hsiung
  • Patent number: 5876683
    Abstract: A low pressure combustion flame method for the production of nanophase powders, coatings and free-standing forms. The process involves controlled thermal decomposition of one or more metalorganic precursors in a flat-flame combustor unit in which both temperature distribution and gas phase residence time are uniform over the entire surface of the burner. It is this feature that makes the combustion flame reactor such a versatile tool for (1) high rate production of loosely agglomerated nanoparticle powders with controlled particle size and distribution, (2) uniform deposition of shape conformal nanophase coatings, and (3) net-shaped fabrication of nanocrystalline free-standing forms such as sheets, rings and drums. Applications for this new nanomaterials processing technology include electrical, thermal, optical, display, magnetic, catalytic, tribological and structural materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1999
    Inventors: Nicholas Glumac, Bernard H. Kear, Ganesh Skandan, Yijia Chen
  • Patent number: 5849256
    Abstract: A method for oxidizing carbon monoxide in a waste gas stream that also contains sulfur dioxide is carried out by contacting the waste gas stream under oxidizing conditions with an oxidation catalyst which is effective for promoting the oxidation of carbon monoxide but produces less sulfur trioxide from the sulfur dioxide. The catalyst according to the invention contains platinum dispersed on a refractory inorganic oxide support material with a So.sub.3 -inhibiting quantity of a bismuth compound, such as Bi.sub.2 O.sub.3. The atomic molar ratio of bismuth to platinum is in the range of from about 0.1:1 to 6:1, e.g., 0.5:1 to 3:1, e.g., 1:1.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1998
    Assignee: Engelhard Corporation
    Inventors: Michel Deeba, Barry K. Speronello
  • Patent number: 5846503
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method for rejuvenating an aqueous alkanolamine solution being at least partially deactivated from contact with an acid gas, said rejuvenation method comprising contacting said aqueous alkanolamine solution with hydrogen in the presence of a hydrotreating catalyst under hydrotreating conversion conditions including contact time sufficient to increase the acid gas sorption capacity of said aqueous alkanolamine solution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1998
    Assignee: Mobil Oil Corporation
    Inventor: Tsoung Y. Yan
  • Patent number: 5843195
    Abstract: A fuel reformer (30) includes a reformer unit (32) for receiving supplies of methanol and water and producing a hydrogen-rich reformed gas and a partial oxidizing unit (34) filled with a platinum-ruthenium alloy catalyst for oxidizing carbon monoxide in the reformed gas produced by the reformer unit (32) preferentially over hydrogen in the reformed gas. The platinum-ruthenium alloy catalyst charged in the partial oxidizing unit (34) lowers the concentration of carbon monoxide in the hydrogen-rich gas containing a trace amount of methanol to several ppm in its active temperature range of 80.degree. C. to 100.degree. C. This structure enables a gaseous fuel having extremely low concentrations of methanol and carbon monoxide to be produced by the fuel reformer (30) and supplied to polymer electrolyte fuel cells having an extremely low allowable limit of carbon monoxide concentration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1998
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Satoshi Aoyama
  • Patent number: 5837028
    Abstract: A method of operating a cross-fired regenerative glass furnace for melting flat glass so as to minimize emission of NOx in waste gases leaving the furnace, the furnace having sealed regenerators which act as heat exchangers, the method including supplying fuel in excess of that required for stoichiometric combustion to ensure that glass of the required quality at the required production rate is obtained, and that the waste gases leaving the furnace through the regenerators contain combustible material, and reacting the combustible material with sufficient air to ensure that the waste gases exiting to atmosphere contain permissible levels of combustible material and permissible levels of NOx. Alternatively, the furnace may be operated at substantially stoichiometric conditions and fuel is supplied to the waste gases as they leave the melting chamber. The invention also relates to a cross-fired regenerator glass furnace for use in the method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1998
    Assignee: Pilkington Glass Limited
    Inventors: Richard Quirk, David Alan Bird, Ian Nigel William Shulver, Robin Maxwell McIntosh
  • Patent number: 5833730
    Abstract: A method of operating a regenerative glass furnace for melting glass for the manufacture of shaped glass articles so as to minimize emission of NOx in waste gases leaving the furnace, the furnace having sealed regenerators which act as heat exchangers, the method including supplying fuel in excess of that required for stoichiometric combustion to ensure that glass of the required quality at the required production rate is obtained, and that the waste gases leaving the furnace through the regenerators contain combustible material, and reacting the combustible material with sufficient air to ensure that the waste gases exiting to atmosphere contain permissible levels of combustible material and contain permissible levels of NOx. Alternatively, the furnace may be operated at substantially stoichiometric conditions and fuel is supplied to waste gases as they leave the melting chamber. The invention also relates to a regenerative glass furnace for use in the method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1998
    Assignee: Pilkington Glass Limited
    Inventors: Richard Quirk, David Alan Bird, Ian Nigel William Shulver, Robin Maxwell McIntosh
  • Patent number: 5827490
    Abstract: A method for reducing NO.sub.x in a combustion exhaust gas stream from a boiler. The method includes the steps of converting an aqueous solution of urea to ammonia by heating the urea solution to a temperature of 350.degree.-650.degree. F. The urea solution is pressurized to the pressure required to keep urea solution is pressurized to the pressure required to keep urea reaction products in the liquid phase and is contacted for a selected time with a conversion catalyst selected from the group of metals, metal oxides, or metal compounds comprising aluminum, chromium, cobalt, molybdenum, niobium, titanium, tungsten, and vanadium to provide a converted area solution. The converted area solution is injected into the combustion exhaust gas for reducing NO.sub.x.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 27, 1998
    Assignee: Noell, Inc.
    Inventor: Dale Gordon Jones
  • Patent number: 5820651
    Abstract: A method of operating a regenerative glass furnace for melting glass for the manufacture of shaped glass articles so as to minimize emission of NOx in waste gases leaving the furnace, the furnace having sealed regenerators which act as heat exchangers, the method includes supplying fuel in excess of that required for stoichiometric combustion to ensure that glass of the required quality at the required production rate is obtained, and that the waste gases leaving the furnace through the regenerators contain combustible material, and reacting the combustible material with sufficient air to ensure that the waste gases exiting to atmosphere contain permissible levels of combustible material and contain permissible levels of NOx. Alternatively, the furnace may be operated at substantially stoichiometric conditions and fuel is supplied to waste gases as they leave the melting chamber. The invention also relates to a regenerator glass furnace for use in the method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1998
    Assignee: Pilkington Glass Limited
    Inventors: Richard Quirk, David Alan Bird, Ian Nigel William Shulver, Robin Maxwell McIntosh
  • Patent number: 5810901
    Abstract: A method of operating a cross-fired regenerative glass furnace for melting flat glass so as to minimize emission of NOx in waste gases leaving the furnace, the furnace having sealed regenerators which act as heat exchangers, the method includes supplying fuel in excess of that required for stoichiometric combustion to ensure that glass of the required quality at the required production rate is obtained, and that the waste gases leaving the furnace through the regenerators contain combustible material, and reacting the combustible material with sufficient air to ensure that the waste gases exiting to atmosphere contain permissible levels of combustible material and permissible levels of NOx. Alternatively, the furnace may be operated at substantially stoichiometric conditions and fuel is supplied to the waste gases as they leave the melting chamber. The invention also relates to a cross-fired regenerator glass furnace for use in the method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1998
    Assignee: Pilkington Glass Limited
    Inventors: Richard Quirk, David Alan Bird, Ian Nigel William Shulver, Robin Maxwell McIntosh
  • Patent number: 5683665
    Abstract: According to the present invention, ceramics which are prepared by calcining a composition comprising raw ceramic materials and a microorganism and/or culture fluid thereof, wherein the microorganisms is capable of producing an antioxidation material. The ceramic of the present invention possesses a variety of activities of, for instance, improving the soil, decomposing sewage or sludge, and deodorizing an unpleasant odor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 4, 1997
    Inventor: Teruo Higa
  • Patent number: 5678240
    Abstract: A method of converting radioactive alkali metal into a low level disposable solid waste material. The radioactive alkali metal is atomized and introduced into an aqueous caustic solution having caustic present in the range of from about 20 wt % to about 70 wt % to convert the radioactive alkali metal to a radioactive alkali metal hydroxide. The aqueous caustic containing radioactive alkali metal hydroxide and CO.sub.2 are introduced into a thin film evaporator with the CO.sub.2 present in an amount greater than required to convert the alkali metal hydroxide to a radioactive alkali metal carbonate, and thereafter the radioactive alkali metal carbonate is separated from the thin film evaporator as a dry powder. Hydroxide solutions containing toxic metal hydroxide including one or more metal ions of Sb, As, Ba, Be, Cd, Cr, Pb, Hg, Ni, Se, Ag and T1 can be converted into a low level non-hazardous waste using the thin film evaporator of the invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 14, 1997
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the United States Department of Energy
    Inventor: Steven D. Herrmann
  • Patent number: 5637415
    Abstract: Method for controlling the supply of air to a PROX reactor for the preferential oxidation in the presence of hydrogen wherein the concentration of the hydrogen entering and exiting the PROX reactor is monitored, the difference therebetween correlated to the amount of air needed to minimize such difference, and based thereon the air supply to the PROX reactor adjusted to provide such amount and minimize such difference.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 10, 1997
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Mark A. Meltser, Martin M. Hoch
  • Patent number: 5635148
    Abstract: A reactive membrane for removing impurities, such as water, oxygen and organic compounds, from a gas is provided. The reactive membrane includes a porous inorganic substrate having exposed surfaces and at least one carbon layer, which is modified to present active sites, deposited on the exposed surfaces. The active sites include metal species which are at least partially deoxygenated and are chemically bonded to the carbon layer. Methods of forming the reactive membrane and of removing impurities from a gas with the membrane are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 3, 1997
    Assignee: Arizona Board of Regents on Behalf of the University of Arizona
    Inventor: Farhang F. Shadman
  • Patent number: 5620672
    Abstract: A catalyst composition contains a catalytic material having having an undercoat layer containing a mixture of a fine particulate undercoat refractory metal oxide and a sol such as a silica sol, the undercoat providing good adherence to substrates, such as metal substrates, on which the catalytic material is disposed. An overlayer is coated over the underlayer and contains an overlayer refractory metal oxide, which may be the same as or different from the undercoat refractory metal oxide, and on which is dispersed one or more catalytic metal components, such as palladium and manganese components. The metal substrate may be made of, e.g., aluminum or titanium or alloys thereof, and provides a low pressure drop and lightweight catalyst, making the catalyst especially well adapted for use in aircraft to abate ozone in cabin air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 15, 1997
    Assignee: Engelhard Corporation
    Inventors: Michael P. Galligan, Joseph C. Dettling
  • Patent number: 5616236
    Abstract: The rate of formation of carbon on the surfaces of thermal cracking tubes and the production of carbon monoxide during thermal cracking of hydrocarbons are inhibited by the use of cracking tubes treated with an antifoulant, including tin compound, silicon compound and sulfur compounds in the presence of a reducing gas such as hydrogen. Additionally, the concentration of carbon monoxide in a pyrolytic cracking process product stream is reduced by the treatment of the thermal cracking tubes of such process with a reducing gas having a concentration of a sulfur compound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 1, 1997
    Assignee: Phillips Petroleum Company
    Inventors: Ronald E. Brown, Larry E. Reed, Gil J. Greenwood, Timothy P. Harper, Mark D. Scharre
  • Patent number: 5612012
    Abstract: A method for removing CO from a reformed gas includes the steps of treating the reformed gas by a hydrogen purifier to decrease a ratio of the concentration of components other than hydrogen to the concentration of hydrogen so that the ratio may be lower than in the reformed gas, and then converting CO contained in the gas treated by the hydrogen purifier into a gas other than CO. CO can be removed from the reformed gas, and simultaneously high-purity hydrogen can also be obtained, which leads to the increase of a fuel efficiency and the inhibition effect of performance deterioration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 18, 1997
    Assignee: NGK Insulators, Ltd.
    Inventors: Takao Soma, Tomonori Takahashi, Manabu Isomura
  • Patent number: 5591417
    Abstract: Removing sulfur oxide, carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxide in a flue gas stream by combusting fuel in the combustor with a reduced amount of oxygen to convert all sulfur-containing species in the flue gas stream to sulfur oxide, and to partially convert carbon monoxide therein to carbon dioxide, thus forming a sulfur oxide enriched gas stream having between at least about 500 ppm carbon monoxide and a consequential reduced amount of nitrogen oxide. The sulfur oxide enriched gas stream is contacted with a solid adsorbent bed for adsorbing the sulfur oxides in the form of inorganic sulfates and/or sulfur oxides. The solid adsorbent contains a catalytic oxidation promoter for oxidizing the carbon monoxide gas stream to carbon dioxide, thus forming a sulfur oxide and carbon monoxide depleted stream with the consequential reduced amount of nitrogen oxide for disposal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 7, 1997
    Assignee: Mobil Oil Corporation
    Inventors: John S. Buchanan, Mark F. Mathias, Joseph F. Sodomin, III, Gerald J. Teitman
  • Patent number: 5578283
    Abstract: A catalyst and process for treating gas streams which contain halogenated organic compounds, non-halogenated organic compounds, carbon monoxide or mixtures thereof, and particularly gas streams which contain organobromides. The catalyst comprises at least one platinum group metal, zirconium oxide and at least one oxide of manganese, cerium or cobalt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 26, 1996
    Assignee: Engelhard Corporation
    Inventors: James M. Chen, Pascaline H. Nguyen
  • Patent number: 5547648
    Abstract: Removing sulfur oxide and carbon monoxide in a flue gas stream by combusting fuel in the combustor with a reduced amount of oxygen to partially convert carbon monoxide therein to carbon dioxide and sufficient to convert all sulfur-containing species in the flue gas stream to sulfur oxide and thus form a sulfur oxide enriched gas stream having between at least about 500 ppm carbon monoxide. The sulfur oxide enriched gas stream is contacted with a solid adsorbent bed for adsorbing the sulfur oxides in the form of inorganic sulfates and/or sulfur oxides. The solid adsorbent contains a catalytic oxidation promoter for oxidizing the carbon monoxide gas stream to carbon dioxide, thus forming a sulfur oxide and carbon monoxide depleted stream for disposal. The adsorbent bed is then contacted with a reducing gas stream for regenerating the adsorbent bed to form a hydrogen sulfide and/or sulfur dioxide bearing stream.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1996
    Assignee: Mobil Oil Corporation
    Inventors: John S. Buchanan, Mark F. Mathias, Joseph F. Sodomin, III, Gerald J. Teitman
  • Patent number: 5529763
    Abstract: The Present Invention is directed to a composition, its synthesis and a process for adsorptive separation of carbon monoxide from gas mixtures using adsorbents, which comprise cuprous compounds on amorphous oxide macroporous supports. The compositions are prepared by impregnating cupric compounds on supports followed by reduction of the cupric compound to the corresponding cuprous compound. The reduction can be performed by the use of a reducing gas, preferably synthesis gas at relatively low temperatures up to 150.degree. C., preferably preceded by the use of elevated temperature above 250.degree. C. All the adsorbents described in this invention consist of CuCl particles of finite size supported on macroporous support materials including alumina and silica gel. Among the ingredients used to form supported CuCl fine particles are support materials of low dispersing power, high copper loading, absence of dispersants, and proper post heat-treatment. The bulk nature of the active component (i.e.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 25, 1996
    Assignee: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.
    Inventors: Xiang-Dong Peng, Ronald Pierantozzi, Timothy C. Golden
  • Patent number: 5505920
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for the treatment of waste gas discharged from a cyclohexane oxidation reactor used in the manufacture of adipic acid, said waste gas containing mainly nitrogen, oxygen, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, acetic acid, and up to 10% by weight cyclohexane, as well as other gases or vapors, by (a) scrubbing the waste gas from the cyclohexane oxidation reactor with acetic acid in a first absorption step to reduce the amount of cyclohexane to a residual content of less than about 1% by weight, (b) scrubbing the waste gas from the first absorption step with water in a second absorption step to reduce the amount of acetic acid to a residual content of less than about 1% by weight, and (c) subjecting the scrubbed waste gas from the second absorption step to an oxidation step to oxidize carbon monoxide and other oxidizable components of the waste gas to carbon dioxide and water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 9, 1996
    Assignees: Bayer Aktiengesellschaft, Redox Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: John Kollar, Gotz-Gerald Borger, Matthias Stenger
  • Patent number: 5500198
    Abstract: A method and composition for the complete oxidation of carbon monoxide and/or hydrocarbon compounds. The method involves reacting the carbon monoxide and/or hydrocarbons with an oxidizing agent in the presence of a metal oxide composite catalyst. The catalyst is prepared by combining fluorite-type oxygen ion conductors with active transition metals. The fluorite oxide, selected from the group consisting of cerium oxide, zirconium oxide, thorium oxide, hafnium oxide, and uranium oxide, and may be doped by alkaline earth and rare earth oxides. The transition metals, selected from the group consisting of molybdnum, copper, cobalt, maganese, nickel, and silver, are used as additives. The atomic ratio of transition metal to fluorite oxide is less than one.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 19, 1996
    Assignee: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Wei Liu, Maria Flytzani-Stephanopoulos
  • Patent number: 5492682
    Abstract: An improved apparatus and process for the removal of gaseous impurities from an impure gas stream of hydrogen contaminated with carbon monoxide, and with one or more additional impurities such as carbon dioxide, oxygen, nitrogen, water, methane.The impure gas stream is first contacted with elemental nickel in a first reaction zone under nickel-carbonyl forming conditions thereby converting substantially all the carbon monoxide to nickel carbonyl, thereby producing a partially purified gas stream.The partially purified gas stream is then contacted with Ti.sub.2 Ni or certain manganese-containing alloys in a second reaction zone to produce a fully purified gas stream.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 20, 1996
    Assignee: SAES Getters S.p.A.
    Inventors: Marco Succi, Carolina Solcia, D'Arcy Lorimer
  • Patent number: 5399324
    Abstract: The present invention broadly relates to a catalyst system for promoting oxidation-reduction reactions of the exhaust gases produced by an internal combustion engine wherein the catalyst comprises a two-stage system of a first-stage nitric oxide removal (by reduction) catalyst and a second-stage carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon removal (by oxidation) catalyst. The first-stage catalyst comprises between about 0.1 and 3% by weight tungsten carried on a support material comprising mostly .gamma.-alumina. The second-stage catalyst is an oxidation catalyst such as platinum on alumina.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 21, 1995
    Assignee: Ford Motor Company
    Inventors: Somasundaram Subramanian, Robert J. Kudla, Mohinder S. Chattha
  • Patent number: 5382417
    Abstract: A method of purifying multi-component gas streams, comprising the steps of stabilizing an absorbent solution which comprises a Group I-B metal halide amine, contacting said absorbent solution with said multi-component gas stream, complexing ligands and reactable components in said gas stream with said Group I-B metal halide amine, decomplexing and recovering said ligands and reactable components either separately or in mixture, and recycling said absorbent solution for contact with said multi-component gas stream.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 17, 1995
    Assignee: Herr Haase, Inc.
    Inventor: Donald J. Haase
  • Patent number: 5366708
    Abstract: Apparatus and process for the catalytic gaseous phase reaction of a feed gas mixture. The apparatus includes a reactor having two ends which alternately serve as an inlet for the feed gas mixture and as an outlet for reacted gas and two stationary heat exchange/reaction zones connected by a center zone. Each of the heat exchange/reaction zones contains a layer of catalyst and the center zone contains a feed gas mixture inlet. A first distribution/collection zone is between one of the heat exchange/reaction zones and one of the ends of the reactor and a second distribution/collection zone is between the other heat exchange/reaction zone and the other end of the reactor. In the process, the heat exchange/reaction zones are alternately heated and cooled by periodically reversing the direction of flow of gas through the reactor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 22, 1994
    Assignee: Monsanto Eviro-Chem Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Yurii S. Matros, Robert A. Yeo, David E. McCombs
  • Patent number: 5328672
    Abstract: A dual-phase zeolite having a transition metal-containing zeolite phase and a transition metal-containing oxide phase. The catalytic material may be an intimate mixture of a phase-layered structure of a first phase constituted preferably of a copper-containing high silica zeolite and a second phase constituted of copper-containing zirconia.Methods are also disclosed for making a single-stage catalyst for removing NO.sub.x and HC at high efficiency in an oxygen-rich automotive exhaust gas, and for treating the exhaust gas with the dual-phase catalyst above.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 12, 1994
    Assignee: Ford Motor Company
    Inventors: Clifford Montreuil, Haren S. Gandhi, Mohinder S. Chattha
  • Patent number: 5294422
    Abstract: Highly purified rare gas (helium, neon, argon, krypton, xenon, etc.) is obtained by removing impurities contained therein, such as nitrogen, hydrocarbon, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, oxygen, hydrogen and water, at relatively low temperatures by the use of a getter. This getter is a two-component alloy of zirconium and vanadium, or a multi-component alloy containing, as well as zirconium and vanadium, at least one of chromium, nickel and cobalt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 15, 1994
    Assignee: Japan Pionics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Koichi Kitahara, Kenji Ohtsuka, Noboru Takemasa, Shinobu Kamiyama
  • Patent number: 5271916
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for selectively oxidizing carbon monoxide in a hydrogen rich feed stream. The method comprises mixing a feed stream consisting essentially of hydrogen, carbon dioxide, water and carbon monoxide with a first predetermined quantity of oxygen (air). The temperature of the mixed feed/oxygen stream is adjusted in a first the heat exchanger assembly (20) to a first temperature. The mixed feed/oxygen stream is sent to reaction chambers (30,32) having an oxidation catalyst contained therein. The carbon monoxide of the feed stream preferentially absorbs on the catalyst at the first temperature to react with the oxygen in the chambers (30,32) with minimal simultaneous reaction of the hydrogen to form an intermediate hydrogen rich process stream having a lower carbon monoxide content than the feed stream. The elevated outlet temperature of the process stream is carefully controlled in a second heat exchanger assembly (42) to a second temperature above the first temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1993
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Nicholas E. Vanderborgh, Trung V. Nguyen, Joseph Guante, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5264195
    Abstract: The subject invention relates to a method for combined reduction of the concentrations of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and carbon monoxide (CO) formed in fossil fuels combustion process in combustion apparatus and fuels combustion devices, such as automotive and stationary internal combustion engines, gas turbines, fuel fired power boilers and heaters, among others, by the reduction process conversion of NO to harmless N.sub.2 and water, combined with oxidation of CO to carbon dipoxide (CO.sub.2), which is subsequently discharged in the effluent combustion products gasea into the ambient air atmosphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1993
    Inventor: Otto C. Turchan
  • Patent number: 5260043
    Abstract: The invention describes a process for catalytically destroying NOx and carbon monoxide present in oxygen-containing combustion products wherein methane serves as a reductant. The process comprises combusting a fuel source in the presence of oxygen to form combustion products comprising nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide and oxygen; introducing methane into the combustion products in an amount such that the total amount of methane to nitrogen oxides present, expressed as a ratio, by volume is greater than about 0.1; and reacting the nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, methane and oxygen in the presence of an exchanged crystalline zeolite under conditions sufficient to convert the nitrogen oxides and carbon monoxide to gaseous nitrogen, water and carbon oxides. Suitable catalysts include zeolites having a silicon to aluminum ratio of greater than or equal to about 2.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1993
    Assignee: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.
    Inventors: Yuejin Li, John N. Armor
  • Patent number: 5258571
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a process for adsorptive separation of carbon monoxide or olefins from gas mixtures using adsorbents, which comprise cuprous compounds dispersed on amorphous oxide or carbon macroporous supports. The compositions are prepared by impregnating cupric compounds on, preferably pretreated, supports with the aid of an aqueous solution of an ammonium salt of a di- or polycarboxylic acid dispersant, such as ammonium citrate, followed by reduction of the cupric compound to the corresponding cuprous compound. The reduction can be performed either by the use of elevated temperature or by the use of a reducing gas preferably carbon monoxide at relatively low temperatures up to 150.degree. C. Methods of synthesis are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1993
    Assignee: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy C. Golden, Wilbur C. Kratz, Frederick C. Wilhelm, Ronald Pierantozzi, Andrzej Rokicki
  • Patent number: 5227144
    Abstract: Process for air decontamination consists of circulating air in a soaking chamber through several air-permeable barriers which are continuously bathed in solutions containing various chemical reagents which remove toxic, solid and gaseous pollutants from the air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1993
    Inventor: Antonio Perez de la Garza
  • Patent number: 5186916
    Abstract: A method for purifying flue-gasses and other hot, oxidative waste gasses originating from industrial installations, combustion furnaces, engines and the like, whereby the hot gas to be purified is passed through at least one spraying chamber or -area and is contacted therein with a gas washing liquid, which is sprayed into the hot gas flow and cools the gas to below 100.degree. C., whereby residual liquids with a high C.Z.V.-value, which comprise complex builders, compounds of heavy metals, sulphur- and nitrogen compounds, and originating amongst others from fixing-baths and the like from the photographic, photochemical and galvanic industries, are used as gas washing liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1993
    Inventor: Leonardus M. M. Nevels
  • Patent number: 5157204
    Abstract: A process for removing carbon monoxide and free oxygen from hydrocarbon-containing fluids comprises contacting the fluid feed with at least one of several supported platinum-containing catalyst compositions so as to convert carbon monoxide and free oxygen to carbon dioxide, essentially without oxidizing the hydrocarbon(s).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1992
    Assignee: Phillips Petroleum Company
    Inventors: Scott H. Brown, John H. Kolts
  • Patent number: 5100633
    Abstract: Method of treatment of a hot exhaust gas stream containing acid forming pollutants to produce a scrubbed exhaust and useful or benign by-products. The gas stream is first passed through a heat exchanger and then reacted with an aqueous, alkaline scrubbing solution. After the reaction the solution, now containing dissolved salts with a precipitate of any insolubles, is passed through the heat exchanger wherein it is heated by the gas stream to remove water therefrom, thereby crystallizing the dissolved salts, and wherein it serves to cool and dehumidify the gas stream in a manner to remove heat and collect water therefrom prior to its reacting with the scrubbing solution. Any remaining insolubles are non-toxic or useful, e.g. as cement kiln feed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 31, 1992
    Assignee: Passamaquoddy Technology Limited Partnership
    Inventor: Garrett L. Morrison
  • Patent number: 5061464
    Abstract: Improved sulfur tolerant platinum group metal catalysts exhibiting superior performance for the oxidative removal of CO and hydrocarbons from waste gas streams at low temperatures. The catalyst comprises at least one platinum group metal and at least one of silica, titania, zirconia, zeolite, and alpha-alumina.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 29, 1991
    Assignee: Johnson Matthey, Inc.
    Inventors: George W. Cordonna, Jr., Eckhard R. Becker
  • Patent number: 4961911
    Abstract: A process for reducing the amount of carbon monoxide emitted from a fluidized bed reactor for chlorinating titanium bearing material containing iron oxide comprising (a) feeding coke, titanium bearing material containing iron oxide, and chlorine to the reactor, the chlorine being fed to the reactor below the surface of the fluidized bed, (b) maintaining the feed rate of the materials in step (a) and the conditions of operation of the bed so that the iron oxide is substantially converted to ferrous chloride, and (c) feeding sufficient chlorine to the reactor at or near the surface of the bed to convert the desired amount of carbon monoxide to carbon dioxide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1989
    Date of Patent: October 9, 1990
    Assignee: E. I. Du Pont de Nemours and Company
    Inventors: Paul G. Reis, Michael J. Dunbar
  • Patent number: 4950462
    Abstract: CO is recovered from a CO-containing gas by contacting a CO-containing gas with a non-aqueous CO-absorbing solution comprising 3 to 6 moles/l of hexametaphosphateamine, 1 to 4 moles/l of cuprous chloride, 0.1 to 1% by weight of water and an organic solvent, thereby absorbing CO into the CO-absorbing solution from the CO-containing gas, and then atomizing the CO-absorbed solution, thereby stripping CO from the CO-absorbed solution and obtaining a CO gas, while recycling the CO-freed absorbing solution to the absorption of CO from the CO-containing gas with remarkable reduction in the corrosion rate on apparatus materials without impairing the CO absorption, and use of a two-fluid, simultaneous atomizing means for atomizing the CO-absorbed solution together with the vapor of the organic solvent can improve the CO stripping rate, and reduce the CO recovery cost.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 21, 1990
    Assignee: Babcock-Hitachi Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Genroku Nakao, Hiroshi Ishisaka, Shigehito Takamoto, Yasuyuki Nishimura