From Vegetation Or Refuse Patents (Class 44/605)
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Patent number: 8471079Abstract: A process for producing a fuel or fuel blending component from co-processing at least two different classes of renewable feedstocks, is presented. One feedstock comprises glycerides and free fatty acids in feedstocks such as plant and animal oils while the other feedstock comprises biomass derived pyrolysis oil. The source of the animal or plant oil and the biomass may be the same renewable source.Type: GrantFiled: November 24, 2009Date of Patent: June 25, 2013Assignee: UOP LLCInventors: Timothy A. Brandvold, Michael J. McCall
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Patent number: 8465557Abstract: A reactive distillation process is disclosed for converting aquatic biomass to a bio-oil. In the process a slurry of aquatic biomass is contacted with a particulate inorganic material. The mixture is heated to or above its boiling point. During the heating step biomass is converted to bio-oil. In a preferred embodiment water vapors emanating from the slurry are collected and condensed. The fresh water obtained may be used for irrigation, in human domestic uses, and for human consumption.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 2008Date of Patent: June 18, 2013Assignee: KiOR, Inc.Inventor: Paul O'Connor
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Patent number: 8465558Abstract: A biofuel product comprises a slurry of pulverized combustible solid biomass material in a combustible liquid product of vegetable origin. In accordance with the invention, the product of vegetable origin is glycerol, and a mixture ratio between the glycerol and the pulverized solid biomass material is such, that the slurry at least upon heating to around 90° C. has a low viscosity and is pumpable. The glycerol utilized is obtained as a byproduct in the production of biodiesel fuel or soap, fatty acids, fatty alcohols or alkyl esters, and the pulverized combustible solid biomass material preferably is lignin powder, and/or wood powder and/or other pulverized vegetable solid biomass material, such as peat, and/or powder of carbon from vegetable material. The biofuel product may be used as a replacement for heavy fuel oil, for example.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2009Date of Patent: June 18, 2013Assignee: Ecotraffic ERD3 ABInventors: Lars Eriksson, Borje Gevert
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Patent number: 8464437Abstract: Biosolids in the nature of sewage sludge is processed in a controlled environment to produce a dried sludge product of relatively high dry solid content with the elimination of or reduced levels of pathogens. The water containing sewage sludge is dried while cascading within a processing chamber using heated air at a temperature below the ignition or smoldering temperature of the sewage sludge to prevent the formation of embers. The sewage sludge before discharge is retained within the processing chamber for a sufficient time and temperature as mandated by the Environment Protection Agency rules and guidelines.Type: GrantFiled: May 25, 2012Date of Patent: June 18, 2013Assignee: Wyssmont Company Inc.Inventor: Edward Weisselberg
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Patent number: 8460406Abstract: The process of the invention describes a set of steps for preparing a solid lignocellulosic biomass type feed, alone or mixed with a liquid hydrocarbon phase with a view to supplying a unit for gasification of said feed. The various steps include drying, torrefaction, milling and constituting a suspension of particles of biomass in a hydrocarbon cut.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 2007Date of Patent: June 11, 2013Assignee: IFP Energies NouvellesInventors: Eric Lemaire, Nicolas Boudet
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Patent number: 8460473Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and a method for conversion of cellulosic material, such as chopped straw and corn stover, and household waste, to ethanol and other products. The cellulosic material is subjected to continuous hydrothermal pre-treatment without addition of chemicals, and a liquid and a fiber fraction are produced. The fiber fraction is subjected to enzymatic liquefaction and saccharification. The method of the present invention comprises: performing the hydrothermal pre-treatment by subjecting the cellulosic material to at least one soaking operation, and conveying the cellulosic material through at least one pressurized reactor, and subjecting the cellulosic material to at least one pressing operation, creating a fiber fraction and a liquid fraction; selecting the temperature and residence time for the hydrothermal pretreatment, so that the fibrous structure of the feedstock is maintained and at least 80% of the lignin is maintained in the fiber fraction.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2012Date of Patent: June 11, 2013Assignee: Inbicon A/SInventors: Borge Holm Christensen, Lena Holm Gerlach
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Patent number: 8460541Abstract: A process is disclosed process for converting a solid or highly viscous carbon-based energy carrier material to liquid and gaseous reaction products, said process comprising the steps of: a) contacting the carbon-based energy carrier material with a particulate catalyst material b) converting the carbon-based energy carrier material at a reaction temperature between 200° C. and 450° C., preferably between 250° C. and 350° C., thereby forming reaction products in the vapor phase. In a preferred embodiment the process comprises the additional step of: c) separating the vapor phase reaction products from the particulate catalyst material within 10 seconds after said reaction products are formed. In a further preferred embodiment step c) is followed by: d) quenching the reaction products to a temperature below 200° C.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2011Date of Patent: June 11, 2013Assignee: KiOR, Inc.Inventors: Paul O'Connor, Dennis Stamires, Jacob Adriaan Moulijn
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Patent number: 8455705Abstract: Processes and reactor systems are provided for the conversion of oxygenated hydrocarbons to hydrocarbons, ketones and alcohols useful as liquid fuels, such as gasoline, jet fuel or diesel fuel, and industrial chemicals. The process involves the conversion of mono-oxygenated hydrocarbons to aromatics and gasonline range hydrocarbons where the oxygenated hydrocarbons are derived from biomass.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2011Date of Patent: June 4, 2013Assignee: Virent, Inc.Inventors: Randy D. Cortright, Paul G. Blommel
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Patent number: 8454712Abstract: A process and system for separating a light fraction, a bio-distillate fraction, and a heavy fraction from a bio-oil, and for producing a renewable distillate including at least in part the bio-distillate fraction and a stabilizing additive, is provided. The process comprises separating bio-oil into light, bio-distillate, and heavy fractions based on their boiling points. At least a portion of the bio-distillate fraction and a stabilizing additive are blended with a petroleum-derived-diesel-range stream, without any prior hydrotreatment, to thereby provide a renewable distillate composition.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2012Date of Patent: June 4, 2013Assignee: KiOR, Inc.Inventors: Maria Magdalena Ramirez Corredores, Jennifer Sorrells, Changan Zhang
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Publication number: 20130137154Abstract: Methods and systems for developing and bio-refining or processing biomass feedstocks into a spectrum of bio-based products which can be used as a substitute for fossil oil derivatives in various types of product manufacturing processes and/or the production of bio-energy are disclosed. In addition, methods and systems for identifying, measuring and controlling key parameters in relation to specific biomass developing processes and bio-refining processes so as to maximize the efficiency and efficacy of such processes while standardizing the underlying parameters to facilitate and enhance large-scale production of bio-based products and/or bio-energy are disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 15, 2012Publication date: May 30, 2013Applicant: ORIGINOIL, INC.Inventor: ORIGINOIL, INC.
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Patent number: 8449631Abstract: A method for torrefaction of wood which includes providing a first endless conveyor belt; heating the first endless belt; and positioning a planar wood product on the first belt to heat the wood product by conduction to achieve torrefaction. Other forms provide a second endless belt that disposed in sandwich relation to wood to be torrefied. Some embodiments of the method provide a metal chamber having opposed planar sides dimensioned and configured for receiving a wood sheet with the respective opposed sides of the wood sheet in intimate thermal contact with respective opposed sides of the metal chamber. Other embodiments include the apparatus for torrefaction of an associated wood sheet.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 2008Date of Patent: May 28, 2013Inventor: John A. Paoluccio
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Patent number: 8450541Abstract: A method for producing products containing cyclic organic compounds from biomass oil includes adding a biomass oil to a vessel; heating the biomass oil to crack the biomass oil; removing undesired or unreacted materials, heavy ends, and light ends from the cracked biomass oil; and extracting components from the cracked biomass oil to produce a mixture of products containing between 5% and 90% cyclic organic compounds by weight. A method for producing a high-octane aviation fuel with low lead content includes cracking a biomass oil, separating a middle distillate mixture from cracked biomass oil, decarboxylating the middle distillate mixture to produce a mixture of products containing at least about 50% cyclic alkane and alkene compounds by weight, and blending the mixture of products with a fuel having an octane number below 95 to produce an aviation fuel having an octane number of at least 100.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 2009Date of Patent: May 28, 2013Assignee: The University of North DakotaInventors: Wayne S. Seames, Darrin S. Muggli, Brian M. Tande
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Patent number: 8444897Abstract: The present invention relates to methods for reclaiming plastics and cellulose materials for use in a variety of applications, including as alternative fuel sources. According to one embodiment of the invention, waste is received which includes cellulose materials and plastics. Such materials are sorted from other materials and the cellulose and plastic materials are shredded or ground and then blended together. The blended materials can then be fed to an energy converter, such as a combustion unit or a gasifier, where they are burned as fuel source or used to create synthetic gas. In other embodiments, the blended materials are heated or have a binding element added thereto. Such mixture is then compressed to form a desired shape or sized object, and that object can then be packaged, distributed or used. The blended object can be used as a fuel source, or as a building, sound attenuation, or insulation material.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2007Date of Patent: May 21, 2013Assignee: University of Utah Research FoundationInventors: Lawrence D. Reaveley, Mark Bryant
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Patent number: 8444721Abstract: Disclosed are novel engineered fuel feed stocks, feed stocks produced by the described processes, and methods of making the fuel feed stocks. Components derived from processed MSW waste streams can be used to make such feed stocks which are substantially free of glass, metals, grit and noncombustibles. These feed stocks are useful for a variety of purposes including as gasification and combustion fuels.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2009Date of Patent: May 21, 2013Assignee: Re Community Energy, LLCInventor: Dingrong Bai
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Patent number: 8444722Abstract: Ecologically friendly organically composed fuel products are presented whose composition includes, but is not limited to, ingredients: 58 to 60 percent decomposed straw, 38 percent horse or cow manure, two percent hay mixture from various blends used as feed, and two percent straw dust. The above ingredients are subjected to a number of processing steps with the end product being a hydraulically compressed fuel product, such as a brick, block, briquette, blank, pellet, etc., dried to a less than 10 percent moisture content. Eco-friendly organic fuel products may be created from other ingredients than those described herein could undergo the disclosed process to produce other types of fuel items, both organic and inorganic, with the ingredients comprising wood chips, other kinds of animal manure, and wood chips.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2012Date of Patent: May 21, 2013Inventor: Michael Richey
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Patent number: 8439988Abstract: One possible embodiment could be a composition for coffee ground-based fuel comprising: dried, spent coffee grounds by 54% by weight; vegetable shortening by 23% by weight; brown sugar by 20% by weight; and corn syrup by 2% by weight, wherein the vegetable shortening and brown sugar and mixed together and heated slowly until a boil is achieved, then removing resultant mixture from heat, mixing in dried, spent coffee grounds into resultant mixture, then mixing in corn syrup into the resultant mixture, pouring and pressing the resultant mixture into a selected form for final shaping, then when the mixture has cooled to room temperature, removing it from the form for use.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2011Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Inventors: Elizabeth White, Audrey Burns
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Patent number: 8435314Abstract: The present application relates to a method for the preparation, by torrefaction, of a solid fuel wherein a starting composition is heated indirectly. The present invention also relates to a solid fuel to be obtained by such method. The present application further relates to a method for the removal of one or more metals from or the reduction of the “total chlorine content”, the sulphur content and the trace element content of a solid fuel thus obtained. In addition to that, the present invention relates to a solid fuel, which can be obtained by the carrying out of such a method. Finally, the present invention relates to the uses of such solid fuels.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2012Date of Patent: May 7, 2013Assignee: Torr-Coal Technology, B.V.Inventor: Gerard Hubert Joseph Ruiters
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Publication number: 20130104451Abstract: Inventive systems and methods for management of fuel production from diverse type of biomass are described. The systems and methods of the present invention are capable of satisfying demands for fuel having a desired fuel property (e.g., a desired value of higher heating value on a dry basis). These systems and methods rely on strong correlations between various fuel properties in a dry, ash-free regime developed by the present invention. These correlations are surprising and unexpected because these fuel properties do not correlate in a dry regime, where fuel properties are typically specified.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 28, 2011Publication date: May 2, 2013Inventors: Nicholas CARLIN, John J. MCNAMARA, Pauravi SHAH, Sumer JOHAL
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Patent number: 8431755Abstract: A process to integrate a first biofuels process and a second generation cellulosic biofuels process is provided. The pyrolysis means which produces the char stream and a bioliquid stream. The low pressure hydrotreating component, a high pressure hydrotreating component, the low pressure hydrotreating component which produces the hydrocarbon stream, the high pressure hydrotreating component which produces the steam stream and bioliquid stream. A distillation means, which produces a green gasoline stream and a green diesel stream from the bioliquid stream. The second biofuels process may be a first generation bio-ethanol process, which produces a bio-ethanol stream. The hydrogen production unit, which produces the hydrogen stream and the steam stream. The hydrogen production unit may be a steam reformer or partial oxidation unit.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2010Date of Patent: April 30, 2013Assignee: Air Liquide Large Industries U.S. LPInventor: Dennis A. Vauk
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Patent number: 8430937Abstract: A method and process is described for producing negative carbon fuel. In its broadest form, a carbon-containing input is converted to combustible fuels, refinery feedstock, or chemicals and a carbonaceous solid concurrently in separate and substantially uncontaminated form. In an embodiment of the invention, biomass is converted via discrete increasing temperatures under pressure to blendable combustible fuels and a carbonaceous solid. The carbonaceous solid may be reacted to synthesis gas, sold as charcoal product, carbon credits, used for carbon offsets, or sequestered.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 2012Date of Patent: April 30, 2013Assignee: Cool Planet Biofuels, Inc.Inventors: Michael Cheiky, Ronald A. Sills
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Publication number: 20130104254Abstract: A wheat cultivar, designated SJ907-229, is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds, plants, and hybrids of wheat cultivar SJ907-229, and to methods for producing a wheat plant produced by crossing plants from wheat cultivar SJ907-229 with themselves or with plants from another wheat variety. The invention also relates to methods for producing a wheat plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic wheat plants and plant parts produced by those methods. The invention also relates to wheat varieties or breeding varieties and plant parts derived from wheat cultivar SJ907-229, to methods for producing other wheat varieties, lines or plant parts derived from wheat cultivar SJ907-229, and to the wheat plants, varieties, and their parts derived from the use of those methods. The invention further relates to hybrid wheat seeds and plants produced by crossing wheat cultivar SJ907-229 with another wheat cultivar.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 4, 2012Publication date: April 25, 2013Applicant: MONSANTO TECHNOLOGY LLCInventor: Kim Clifford Shantz
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Publication number: 20130097921Abstract: Disclosed are novel engineered fuel feed stocks, feed stocks produced by the described processes, and methods of making the fuel feed stocks. Components derived from processed MSW waste streams can be used to make such feed stocks which are substantially free of glass, metals, grit and noncombustibles. These feed stocks are useful for a variety of purposes including co-firing with coal and as substitutes for coal.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 7, 2012Publication date: April 25, 2013Applicant: Re Community Energy, LLCInventor: Re Community Energy, LLC
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Patent number: 8425635Abstract: A composition of biomass material is disclosed. The composition includes: (i) a lignocellulosic material; and (ii) at least one member selected from a group consisting of potassium, sodium and chlorides, wherein said at least one member comprising not more than about 0.01% (by weight) of said composition. The composition may not include more than 10% of water.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2010Date of Patent: April 23, 2013Assignee: AGNI Corporation (Cayman Islands)Inventors: Sumer Johal, Nicholas Carlin, Pauravi Shah, John J. McNamara
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Patent number: 8425633Abstract: Methods, process, apparatus, equipment, and systems are disclosed for converting biomass into bio-oil fractions for chemicals, materials, feedstocks and fuels using a low-cost, integrated fast pyrolysis system. The system improves upon prior art by creating stable, bio-oil fractions which have unique properties that make them individually superior to conventional bio-oil. The invention enables water and low-molecular weight compounds to be separated into a final value-added fraction suitable for upgrading or extracting into value-added chemicals, fuels and water. Initial bio-oil fractions from the process are chemically distinct, have low-water content and acidity which reduces processing costs normally associated with conventional bio-oil post-production upgrading since fewer separation steps, milder processing conditions and lower auxiliary inputs are required. Biochar is stabilized so that it can be handled safely.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2011Date of Patent: April 23, 2013Assignee: Avello Bioenergy, Inc.Inventors: Dennis Stephan Banasiak, Cody James Ellens, Anthony Joseph Sherwood Pollard, Jared Nathaniel Brown
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Patent number: 8414664Abstract: Algae-derived synthetic coal and filtrates. The invention described herein provides an algae-derived synthetic coal product and filtrates and process for preparing the same using an improved hydrothermal carbonization process. The synthetic coal product is similar to natural bituminous coal in terms of percent carbon content and energy equivalency while at the same time containing relatively low levels of sulfur and contaminant heavy metals. Unlike natural coal and other fossil fuels, because the carbon of the biomass is formed through photosynthesis, carbon dioxide formed during combustion is a “carbon neutral” event with little or no “new” carbon dioxide being added to the earth's atmosphere. The algae-derived filtrates contain useful constituents.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2010Date of Patent: April 9, 2013Assignee: HydoChar LLCInventors: Steven M. Heilmann, Kenneth J. Valentas, Marc von Keitz, Frederick J. Schendel, Paul A. Lefebvre, Michael J. Sadowsky
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Publication number: 20130081934Abstract: According to various embodiments, systems and methods are provided for converting sewage, sludge, wet feedstock, animal waste, municipal trash, and/or other biomasses into combustible fuels. According to various embodiments, sewage is dewatered, pulverized, desiccated, pelletized, and/or subjected to pyrolysis in order to produce bio-fuels, combustible gases, and/or chars. Bio-fuels, gases and/or chars may be collected during and/or after pyrolysis for use as combustible fuels. According to various embodiments, the collected bio-fuels, gases and/or chars may be transported for later use as a fuel. The collected gases may be liquefied and transported for later use as a fuel.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 4, 2012Publication date: April 4, 2013Applicant: PULVERDRYER USA, INC.Inventor: Levi New
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Patent number: 8409303Abstract: In the processes for treating municipal sewage and storm water containing biosolids to discharge standards, biosolids, even after dewatering, contain typically about 80% water bound in the dead cells of the biosolids, which gives biosolids a negative heating value. It can be incinerated only at the expense of purchased fuel. Biosolids are heated to a temperature at which their cell structure is destroyed and, preferably, at which carbon dioxide is split off to lower the oxygen content of the biosolids. The resulting char is not hydrophilic, and it can be efficiently dewatered and/or dried and is a viable renewable fuel. This renewable fuel can be supplemented by also charging conventional biomass (yard and crop waste, etc.) in the same or in parallel facilities. Similarly, non-renewable hydrophilic fuels can be so processed in conjunction with the processing of biosolids to further augment the energy supply.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2011Date of Patent: April 2, 2013Assignee: SGC Advisors, LLCInventors: Norman L. Dickinson, Kevin M. Bolin, Edward Overstreet, Brian Dooley
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Patent number: 8404910Abstract: Methods are provided for producing low oxygen biomass-derived pyrolysis oil from carbonaceous biomass feedstock. The carbonaceous biomass feedstock is pyrolyzed in the presence of a steam reforming catalyst to produce char and pyrolysis gases. During pyrolysis, a portion of the oxygenated hydrocarbons in the pyrolysis gases is converted into hydrocarbons by steam reforming also yielding carbon oxides and hydrogen gas. The hydrogen gas at least partially deoxygenates a residual portion of the oxygenated hydrocarbons. Additional hydrogen gas may also be produced by water-gas shift reactions to deoxygenate the residual portion of the oxygenated hydrocarbons in the pyrolysis gases. Deoxygenation may occur in the presence of a hydroprocessing catalyst. A condensable portion of the pyrolysis gases is condensed to form low oxygen biomass-derived pyrolysis oil.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2010Date of Patent: March 26, 2013Assignee: UOP LLCInventors: Joseph A. Kocal, Richard Marinangeli, Francis Stephen Lupton, Lisa King
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Patent number: 8404908Abstract: A process is presented for the production of high value chemicals from lignin. The process comprises combining several internal steps to use the hydrogen generated by the process, rather than adding an external source of hydrogen. The process can combine the decomposition of oxygenates formed during the deoxygenation process with hydrogenation of deoxygenated lignin compounds.Type: GrantFiled: October 13, 2009Date of Patent: March 26, 2013Assignee: UOP LLCInventor: John Q. Chen
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Patent number: 8394900Abstract: The present invention generally relates to a method for sequestering carbon dioxide. Biomass is converted into paraffinic hydrocarbons. The paraffinic hydrocarbons are steam cracked into olefins. The olefins are polymerized into non-biodegradable polyolefins.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 2010Date of Patent: March 12, 2013Assignee: Syntroleum CorporationInventor: Ramin Abhari
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Publication number: 20130055632Abstract: The invention relates to a method for producing coal, asphalt, liquid hydrocarbon, organic acids, methane gas and/or hydrogen from a waste material comprising: a) providing a waste material; b) subjecting the waste material to irradiation with low frequency macro waves, with a wavelength of between 700 nm and 1 mm, whereby the temperature is between 2050 C and 9000 C and the pressure is between 1.0 bar and 19.0 bar, thereby producing coal; c) optionally subjecting the residual materials in gaseous state from step b) to a physicochemical reaction in the presence of a solid metal identified as DPP B102, whereby the temperature is between 1800 C and 5000 C and the pressure is between 0.98 bar and 5.5 bar, thereby producing asphalt; d) optionally subjecting the residual materials in gaseous state from step b) or c) to a physicochemical reaction and/or condensation, whereby the temperature is between 1500 C and 7500 C and the pressure is between 0.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 21, 2011Publication date: March 7, 2013Inventors: Dieter Peter Petry, Aldo Mario Higinio Acosta Ayala, Andres Anastacio Barrios Maciel, Leon Isaac Vera Vera
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Publication number: 20130055633Abstract: Methods and systems for preparing a torrefied biomass fuel are disclosed. Moisture is initially extracted from relatively wet biomass fuel to produce a relatively dry biomass fuel. Remaining moisture is then extracted from the relatively dry biomass fuel in a final drying stage, using steam at a temperature of about 900° F. The resulting dried biomass fuel is conveyed downward using gravity and undergoes torrefaction, which produces torrefied biomass fuel and torrefaction gases. A gaseous mixture of steam and torrefaction gases is vented to a heat exchanger, where the gaseous mixture is heated by a flue gas, and the heated gaseous mixture is used to support the extraction of the remaining moisture in the final drying stage and to support the torrefaction of the dried biomass fuel. Embodiments disclosed herein efficiently use available energy resources to the benefit of manufacturers, consumers, and the environment.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 25, 2012Publication date: March 7, 2013Applicant: TERRA GREEN ENERGY, LLCInventor: TERRA GREEN ENERGY, LLC
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Patent number: 8382986Abstract: A method of dewatering algae and recycling water therefrom is presented. A method of dewatering a wet algal cell culture includes removing liquid from an algal cell culture to obtain a wet algal biomass having a lower liquid content than the algal cell culture. At least a portion of the liquid removed from the algal cell culture is recycled for use in a different algal cell culture. The method includes adding a water miscible solvent set to the wet algal biomass and waiting an amount of time to permit algal cells of the algal biomass to gather and isolating at least a portion of the gathered algal cells from at least a portion of the solvent set and liquid of the wet algal biomass so that a dewatered algal biomass is generated. The dewatered algal biomass can be used to generated algal products such as biofuels and nutraceuticals.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2012Date of Patent: February 26, 2013Assignee: Heliae Development, LLCInventor: Aniket Kale
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Patent number: 8377152Abstract: A process and system for separating a light fraction, a bio-distillate fraction, and a heavy fraction from a bio-oil, and for producing a renewable distillate including at least in part the bio-distillate fraction and a stabilizing additive, is provided. The process comprises separating bio-oil into light, bio-distillate, and heavy fractions based on their boiling points. At least a portion of the bio-distillate fraction and a stabilizing additive are blended with a petroleum-derived-diesel-range stream, without any prior hydrotreatment, to thereby provide a renewable distillate composition.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2010Date of Patent: February 19, 2013Assignee: KiOR, Inc.Inventors: Maria Magdalena Ramirez Corredores, Jennifer Sorrells, Changan Zhang
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Patent number: 8377153Abstract: A method of generating heat in a boiler such as by combusting a fuel material which includes a plurality of densified fuel pellets is provided. The densified fuel pellets may be formed by a process which includes compacting a mixture which includes about 5 to 15 wt. % molten thermoplastic polymeric material and at least about 75 wt. % cellulosic material. Many embodiments of the method are suitable for use in a coal-fired furnace and/or in other industrial boiler applications.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2012Date of Patent: February 19, 2013Assignee: Renewable Densified Fuels, LLCInventor: Milan Kluko
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Publication number: 20130031830Abstract: Methods and compositions are provided for producing thermoset, water repellent binders particularly effective for forming combustible composite materials. The binders include a mixture of an alkaline protein hydrolyzate and a bio-oil or an acidic protein hydrolyzate and a lignin compound. Desirably, the binders and the resulting combustible composite materials are substantially free of formaldehyde.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 6, 2012Publication date: February 7, 2013Applicant: MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITYInventors: Philip H. Steele, Venkata K. Penmetsa
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Patent number: 8367882Abstract: Processes and reactor systems are provided for the conversion of oxygenated hydrocarbons to hydrocarbons, ketones, cyclic ethers and alcohols useful as liquid fuels, such as gasoline, jet fuel or diesel fuel, and industrial chemicals. The process involves the conversion of oxygenated hydrocarbons, such as alcohols, ketones, aldehydes, furans, carboxylic acids, diols, triols, and/or other polyols, to C4+ hydrocarbons, cyclic ethers, alcohols and/or ketones, by condensation and/or deoxygenation. The oxygenated hydrocarbons may originate from any source, but are preferably derived from biomass.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2011Date of Patent: February 5, 2013Assignee: Virent, Inc.Inventors: Randy D. Cortright, Paul G. Blommel
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Patent number: 8367881Abstract: A method is described for generating useful chemical intermediates from biomass using a novel pyrolysis reactor that utilizes the inherent thermal properties of carbon under compression as the biomass is subjected to sequential or concurrent temperature ramps. The ramps are sufficient to volatilize and selectively create different components, while the pressure application aids the selective decomposition of the biomass.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2011Date of Patent: February 5, 2013Assignee: Cool Planet Biofuels, Inc.Inventors: Michael Cheiky, Ronald A. Sills
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Patent number: 8361186Abstract: The invention provides for methods, devices, and systems for pyrolyzing biomass. A pyrolysis unit can be used for the pyrolysis of biomass to form gas, liquid, and solid products. The biomass materials can be selected such that an enhanced biochar is formed after pyrolysis. The biomass can be pyrolyzed under specified conditions such that a selected biochar core is formed. The pyrolysis process can form a stable biochar core that is inert and/or resistant to degradation. The biochar or biochar core can be functionalized to form a functionalized biochar or functionalized biochar core. Functionalization can include post-pyrolysis treatments such as supplementation with microbes or physical transformations including annealing and/or activation.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 2010Date of Patent: January 29, 2013Assignee: Full Circle Biochar, Inc.Inventors: David Shearer, John Gaunt, George Vernon Cordner Peacocke
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Patent number: 8362307Abstract: Processes and reactor systems are provided for the conversion of oxygenated hydrocarbons to hydrocarbons, ketones and alcohols useful as liquid fuels, such as gasoline, jet fuel or diesel fuel, and industrial chemicals. The process involves the conversion of mono-oxygenated hydrocarbons, such as alcohols, ketones, aldehydes, furans, carboxylic acids, diols, triols, and/or other polyols, to C4+ hydrocarbons, alcohols and/or ketones, by condensation. The oxygenated hydrocarbons may originate from any source, but are preferably derived from biomass.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 2011Date of Patent: January 29, 2013Assignee: Virent, Inc.Inventors: Randy D. Cortright, Paul G. Blommel
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Patent number: 8361171Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for producing a plant growth medium comprising the following steps: a) providing an amount of bioorganic matter; b) contacting the bioorganic matter with one or more microbial agents capable of degrading the bioorganic matter to produce a decomposition product; and c) treating the decomposition product produced in step (b) to inhibit the degradation process prior to its completion. The invention further provides a bioreactor and a kit for performing that method, and a plant growth medium. In an embodiment, the plant growth medium is a peat-substitute material.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2008Date of Patent: January 29, 2013Assignee: Institute of Food ResearchInventors: Keith Waldron, Timothy Brocklehurst
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Patent number: 8362306Abstract: A process for upgrading an organic acid includes neutralizing the organic acid to form a salt and thermally decomposing the resulting salt to form an energy densified product. In certain embodiments, the organic acid is levulinic acid. The process may further include upgrading the energy densified product by conversion to alcohol and subsequent dehydration.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2010Date of Patent: January 29, 2013Assignee: University of Maine System Board of TrusteesInventors: M. Clayton Wheeler, G. Peter van Walsum, Thomas J. Schwartz, Adriaan van Heiningen
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Publication number: 20130023019Abstract: Biomass (e.g., plant biomass, animal biomass, and municipal waste biomass) is processed to produce useful intermediates and products, such as energy, fuels, foods or materials. For example, systems are described that can use feedstock materials, such as cellulosic and/or lignocellulosic materials, to produce an intermediate or product, e.g., by fermentation.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 7, 2012Publication date: January 24, 2013Applicant: XYLECO, INC.Inventor: Marshall Medoff
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Patent number: 8350103Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to processes for the direct conversion of lipidic biomass fuelstock to combustible fuels. In particular, the disclosure provides a process for the direct conversion of animal fats to transportations fuels suitable as replacement for petroleum-derived transportation fuels. In an example, the method comprises the steps of hydrolyzing a lipidic biomass to form free fatty acids, catalytically deoxygenating the free fatty acids to form n-alkanes, and reforming at least a portion of the n-alkanes into a mixture of compounds in the correct chain length, conformations, and ratio to be useful transportation fuels. Particularly, the product prepared comprises mixtures of hydrocarbon compounds selected from the group consisting of n-alkanes, isoalkanes, aromatics, cycloalkanes, and combinations thereof.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2011Date of Patent: January 8, 2013Assignee: North Carolina State UniversityInventors: William L. Roberts, IV, H. Henry Lamb, Larry F. Stikeleather, Timothy L. Turner
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Patent number: 8350102Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to processes for the direct conversion of lipidic biomass fuelstock to combustible fuels. In particular, the disclosure provides a process for the direct conversion of animal fats to transportations fuels suitable as replacement for petroleum-derived transportation fuels. In an example, the method comprises the steps of hydrolyzing a lipidic biomass to form free fatty acids, catalytically deoxygenating the free fatty acids to form n-alkanes, and reforming at least a portion of the n-alkanes into a mixture of compounds in the correct chain length, conformations, and ratio to be useful transportation fuels. Particularly, the product prepared comprises mixtures of hydrocarbon compounds selected from the group consisting of n-alkanes, isoalkanes, aromatics, cycloalkanes, and combinations thereof.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2010Date of Patent: January 8, 2013Assignee: North Carolina State UniversityInventors: William L. Roberts, IV, H. Henry Lamb, Larry F. Stikeleather, Timothy L. Turner
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Patent number: 8349034Abstract: Disclosed are novel engineered fuel feed stocks, feed stocks produced by the described processes, and methods of making the fuel feed stocks. Components derived from processed MSW waste streams can be used to make such feed stocks which are substantially free of glass, metals, grit and noncombustibles. These feed stocks are useful for a variety of purposes including co-firing with coal and as substitutes for coal.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2009Date of Patent: January 8, 2013Assignee: Re Community Energy, LLCInventors: Paula A. Calabrese, Dingrong Bai
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Publication number: 20120324785Abstract: A method of treating biomass material, particularly plant-derived biomass material, to produce pyrolysis thereof, comprising subjecting the biomass material to radio frequency electromagnetic radiation, e.g. microwave radiation, while the material is being agitated, under suitable conditions to produce a desired degree of pyrolysis.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 1, 2011Publication date: December 27, 2012Applicant: ENERGY ENVIRONMENTAL LIMITEDInventors: Rodney Taylor, Lee McMahon, Garth Philip Wilton Way
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Patent number: 8329970Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for the deoxygenation of materials of biological origin and particularly to the removal of oxygen from biomass derived organic compounds with carbon monoxide, to yield linear and branched hydrocarbons suitable as biofuels or as blending stocks or components for biofuels, such as gas, gasoline, diesel fuel and aviation fuel, as well as solvents. The method comprises contacting a feedstock with carbon monoxide in the presence of a catalyst comprising a metal selected from a group consisting of ruthenium, manganese, rhodium, rhenium, osmium, iridium, molybdenum, copper, zinc, palladium, platinum and cobalt, in the presence of water, under alkaline conditions at a temperature from 150 to 350° C. and under a pressure from 0.1 to 150 bar, to produce hydrocarbons.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 2009Date of Patent: December 11, 2012Assignee: Neste Oil OyjInventors: Elina Harlin, Helka Turunen, Johan-Fredrik Selin, Marja Tiitta, Mohamed Lashdaf
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Publication number: 20120304536Abstract: Systems and methods for producing engineered fuels from solid waste material are described herein. In some embodiments, a method includes receiving a waste stream at a multi-material processing platform and separating the waste stream to remove non-processable waste and marketable recyclables. The method further includes conveying processable materials to a material classification system and incorporating additives to produce an engineered fuel from the constituents of the waste stream.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 28, 2012Publication date: December 6, 2012Applicant: Re Community Energy, LLCInventor: Dingrong BAI
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Patent number: 8324439Abstract: A method of treating feedstocks from renewable sources in order to produce diesel fuel bases of excellent quality. The feedstocks used can be, for example, raw vegetable oils or such oils that have been previously subjected to a prerefining stage, animal fats, or mixtures of such feedstocks. The method includes fixed bed catalytic hydrotreatment, followed by fixed bed hydroisomerization with a catalyst based on monodimensional 10 MR zeolite and at least one metal from group VIII and/or VIB.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2009Date of Patent: December 4, 2012Assignee: IFP Energies NouvellesInventors: Emmanuelle Guillon, Christophe Bouchy, Nathalie Dupassieux, Antoine Daudin, Thierry Chapus