Abstract: Residual lignin recovered from biological conversion processes and pulp and paper industry wastes can be converted to water-soluble products by alkaline oxidation under oxygen pressure at high solids loading within the temperature range 130-180° C. No problems associated with repolymerization reactions are encountered at solids loading between 10-30% where the initial molar ratio of hydroxide base to lignin residual is at last 0.4, possibly because of enhanced reactivity in the oxidation reaction of aromatic groups in self-associate structures. The water-soluble oxidation products can be fractionated to recover a low molecular weight fraction in which pH can be adjusted using CO2 without forming precipitates. Sodium carbonate byproduct can be recovered from the pH adjusted reaction mixture using acetone precipitation. The low molecular weight fraction of the pH adjusted oxidation products can be used as feed for anaerobic digestion to biomethane.

Abstract: According to an example aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for producing an oxidised lignin based high performance surface active agent in techno-economically feasible manner within kraft pulp mill without interfering the main process.

Abstract: This invention relates to malienated derivatives made from maleic anhydride, functionalized monomers, and one or more additional reagents, e.g., an oxygen-containing reagent (e.g., alcohol, polyol), a nitrogen-containing reagent (e.g., amine, polyamine, aminoalcohol), a metal and/or a metal compound. The invention relates to lubricants, functional fluids, fuels, dispersants, detergents and functional compositions (e.g., cleaning solutions, food compositions, etc.

Abstract: The present invention relates to new benzene polycarboxylic acids compound, which is prepared by alkaline oxidation of hydrolyzed lignin. The present invention also relates to the use of the new benzene polycarboxylic acids compound as part of a composite substance, where the composite substance is prepared by complexing or encapsulating the new benzene polycarboxylic acid compounds with a metal cation. The present invention also relates to a method for preparing the new benzene polycarboxylic acids compound and for its use in cosmetic, nutraceutical and pharmaceutical compositions.

Abstract: Emulsions, and processes for making the emulsions, useful for imparting water resistance to gypsum products are disclosed. Process for making the emulsion and gypsum products made from the emulsion are also disclosed. The emulsions of the invention include at least one paraffin wax and a hydrophilic metallic salt. The emulsions of the invention may further include a saponifiable wax substitute for montan wax. The emulsions of the invention may further include a biocide.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process for splitting bitumen into two fractions and rendering a heavier bottom fraction as a useable emulsion fuel. The process is particularly effective in creating an alternate fuel to natural gas in a steam-based bitumen recovery process wherein bitumen is recovered from an underground reservoir.

Abstract: A composition for application to a surface and a method of making the same, said composition comprising at least one wax; at least one reaction product derived from a first surfactant and a second surfactant; and between 40% and 99.8% water by weight. The composition is made by: a) forming an emulsion by combining the water and the wax after heating both the water and the wax to a temperature greater than the melting point of the wax, where at least one of said water and said wax contains said first surfactant, said first surfactant being selected from the group consisting of a cationic surfactant and an anionic surfactant; and b) adding said second surfactant to the emulsion, said second surfactant having a charge which is opposite to that of said first surfactant.

Abstract: A method of maintaining as well as restoring the condition of weathered asphalt shingles and strips which are applied to flat roofs, pitched roofs, or vertical walls. The process involves applying resaturant neat or as a water emulsion. Suitable resaturants include fatty acid methyl esters, petroleum distillates, and water emulsions thereof. The process restores the suppleness and softness of the weathered shingles or strip and adds about three years to the lifetime of the roof. The process may be repeated for additional lifetime extension.

Abstract: A composition of a hydrocarbon in water colloidal dispersion including hydrocarbon particles having a mean softening point exceeding 95° C., a water soluble dispersion agent and water, process and apparatus for the production thereof are disclosed. These dispersions have a median particle size below about 4.5 microns and 90% of the hydrocarbon particles have a size less than about 60 microns. These dispersions are storage stable, stable towards transportation, and can be pumped without destabilizing.

Abstract: A fuel composition comprising a hydrocarbon in water colloidal dispersion including spherical hydrocarbon particles having a mean softening point exceeding about 95.degree. C., and a water soluble dispersion agent comprising a surfactant and stabilizer. The process for the production thereof is disclosed. These dispersions have a median particle size below about 4.5 microns and about 90% of the particles have a mean particle size diameter less than about 60 microns. These dispersions are storage stable, stable towards transportation, and can be pumped and passed through a burner apparatus without destabilizing.

Abstract: Aqueous colloidal dispersion driveway sealer compositions especially adapted for cold application are made available through the controlled utilization of fly ash.