From Wood Patents (Class 585/242)
  • Patent number: 8158842
    Abstract: A process for the recovery of organic chemical feedstocks from biooil is presented. The process comprises separating the water soluble chemicals from biomass and recovering the primarily oxygenate compounds for use as feedstocks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: UOP LLC
    Inventor: Michael J. McCall
  • Patent number: 8153850
    Abstract: According to an embodiment, a biomass conversion subsystem produces methane and/or alcohol and residual biomass. A pyrolysis or a gasification subsystem is used to produce thermal energy and/or process gasses. The thermal energy may be stored thermal energy in the form of a pyrolysis oil. A fuel conversion subsystem produces liquid hydrocarbon fuels from the methane and/or alcohol using thermal energy and/or process gasses produced by the gasification or pyrolysis subsystem. Because the biomass production system integrates the residual products from biomass conversion and the residual thermal energy from pyrolysis or gasification, the overall efficiency of the integrated biomass production system is greatly enhanced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: The Texas A&M University System
    Inventors: Kenneth R. Hall, Mark T. Holtzapple, Sergio C. Capareda
  • Patent number: 8147766
    Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and systems for processing biomass to selectively yield a variety of hydrocarbon molecules and hydrogen as products, wherein some or all of these products can be further utilized for other biomass processing sub-processes, particularly wherein they lead to the generation of biofuels and/or other high-value products.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.
    Inventors: Kerry K. Spilker, Roger Vogel, James F. Stevens, Peter C. Ricci
  • Publication number: 20120077234
    Abstract: A method and system are provided for producing biofuel from cellulosic feedstock. In the method, the cellulosic feedstock is pretreated to separate cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin. Thereafter, the cellulose and hemicellulose are converted into sugars through enzymatic hydrolysis. Then, the sugars are converted into lipids, e.g. triglycerides, through a microbial process. Specifically, heterotrophic microalgae is grown on the triglycerides and forms triglycerides. While triglycerides are formed from the cellulose and hemicellulose, the lignin is converted into ringed hydrocarbons, such as aromatic hydrocarbons and cycloalkanes, e.g., cycloparaffins. To form the biofuel, the triglycerides and ringed hydrocarbons are processed together. During this step, the triglycerides are converted into straight chain paraffins and esters. Preferably, the biofuel is a surrogate for jet quality JP-8 fuel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2010
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Inventor: David A. Hazlebeck
  • Patent number: 8143469
    Abstract: The invention relates to a process for producing saturated C5-C28 hydrocarbons, suitable as diesel fuels, kerosenes and gasolines, comprising the steps where feedstock derived from starting material of biological origin, is subjected to a condensation step and subsequently subjected to a combined hydrodefunctionalization and isomerization step.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: Neste Oil Oyj
    Inventors: Eija Koivusalmi, Rami Piilola, Pekka Aalto
  • Patent number: 8143464
    Abstract: Multiple catalytic processing stations enable a method for producing volatile gas streams from biomass decomposition at discrete increasing temperatures. These catalytic processing stations can be programmed to maximize conversion of biomass to useful renewable fuel components based on input feedstock and desired outputs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: Cool Planet Biofuels, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Cheiky, Rajashekharam Malyala
  • Patent number: 8137632
    Abstract: A process is described including: contacting solid biomass with a first catalyst stream in a first reaction zone operated at a temperature T1 (from about 250 to about 400° C.), for conversion of a portion of the solid biomass and forming a first gaseous product stream; downwardly passing unconverted biomass to a second reaction zone for contact with a second catalyst stream charged to the second reaction zone operated at a temperature T2, for conversion to form a second gaseous product stream and a spent catalyst; burning coke off the spent catalyst in a regenerator to form a regenerated catalyst; charging a portion of the regenerated catalyst to each of the first and second reaction zones, as the first and second catalyst streams, respectively; upwardly passing the second gaseous product stream to the first reaction zone; and removing both first and second gaseous product streams from the first reaction zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: KiOR, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Bartek, Steve Yanik, Paul O'Connor
  • Patent number: 8129575
    Abstract: A process is disclosed for fluid catalytic cracking of oxygenated hydrocarbon compounds such as glycerol and bio-oil. In the process the oxygenated hydrocarbon compounds are contacted with a fluid cracking catalyst material for a period of less than 3 seconds. In a preferred process a crude-oil derived material, such as VGO, is also contacted with the catalyst.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: KiOR, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul O'Connor, George W. Huber, Avelino Corma Camos, Laurent Louis Sauvanaud
  • Patent number: 8119847
    Abstract: A process for converting renewable resources such as vegetable oil and animal fat into paraffins in a single step which comprises contacting a feed which is a renewable resources with hydrogen and a catalyst which comprises a non-precious metal and an oxide to produce a hydrocarbon product having a ratio of odd-numbered hydrocarbons to even-numbered hydrocarbons of at least 2:1.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignee: E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company
    Inventors: Hasan Dindi, Sourav K. Sengupta, Andrew Francis Gonzon
  • Patent number: 8084656
    Abstract: The various embodiments of the present invention relate generally to the process of gasification and the production of synthesis gas. More particularly, the various embodiments of the present disclosure relate to the process of biomass gasification and the reduction or elimination of tars from the hydrocarbon-rich product gas derived from biomass gasification. The present invention comprises systems and methods for the reduction of tar from a synthesis gas derived from biomass gasification.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Assignee: Rentech, Inc.
    Inventor: Herman Feldmann
  • Patent number: 8084655
    Abstract: A process for converting renewable resources such as vegetable oil and animal fat into paraffins in a single step which comprises contacting a feed which is a renewable resources with hydrogen and a catalyst which comprises a non-precious metal a first oxide and optionally a second oxide wherein at least one of the first oxide or second oxide comprises a zeolite, through hydrodeoxygenation and one or both of hydroisomerization and hydrocracking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Assignee: E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company
    Inventors: Hasan Dindi, Sourav K. Sengupta, Andrew Francis Gonzon, David Richard Corbin
  • Patent number: 8063258
    Abstract: A process for producing fuel from biomass is disclosed herein. The process includes torrefying biomass material at a temperature between 80° C. and 300° C. to form particulated biomass having a mean average particle size from about 1 ?m to about 1000 ?m. The particulated biomass is mixed with a liquid to form a suspension, wherein the liquid comprises bio-oil, wherein the suspension includes between 1 weight percent to 40 weight percent particulated biomass. The suspension is fed into a hydropyrolysis reactor; and at least a portion of the particulated biomass of the suspension is converted into fuel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: Kior Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Bartek, Michael Brady, Dennis Stamires
  • Patent number: 8058492
    Abstract: A process for controlling the concurrent production of both diesel range hydrocarbons and aviation range hydrocarbons from renewable feedstocks such as plant oils and animal oils. The process involves determining the required specification of the desired products and the desired relative yields of the product that still meet the required specifications. The necessary isomerization and selective hydrocracking zone conditions are determined in order to create a mixture of paraffins which meet the required product specifications and yields. The necessary fractionation zone conditions are determined to separate the desired products.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: UOP LLC
    Inventors: Amarendra Anumakonda, Michael J. McCall, Timothy A. Brandvold, Joseph A. Kocal
  • Patent number: 8057641
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for effective pyrolysis of a biomass utilizing rapid heat transfer from a solid heat carrier or catalyst. Particularly, various embodiments of the present invention provide methods and apparatuses which incorporate progressive temperature quenching and rapid disengagement of the heat carrier material and reaction product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: Kior Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Bartek, Ronald Lee Cordle
  • Publication number: 20110275869
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for producing synthesis gas and at least one organic liquid or liquefiable material of value, wherein a) a biomass starting material is provided, b) the biomass starting material is subjected to a decomposition, c) at least one aromatics-enriched fraction C1) and at least one aromatics-depleted fraction C2) are optionally isolated from the decomposed material obtained in step b), d) the decomposition product from step b) or the aromatics-enriched fraction C1) from step c) is fed into a dealkylation zone and reacted in the presence of hydrogen and/or water vapor, e) a discharge is taken from the dealkylation zone and subjected to a separation to give at least one organic liquid or liquefiable material of value and at least one stream enriched in components which are more volatile than the organic material of value, f) the stream enriched in components which are more volatile than the organic material of value which is obtained in step e) is at least partly used for p
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2011
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Applicant: BASF SE
    Inventors: ROMAN PROCHAZKA, STEFAN BITTERLICH, OTTO MACHHAMMER, STEPHAN DEUERLEIN, DIRK KLINGLER, EMMANOUIL PANTOUFLAS, ALOIS KINDLER, BERND ZOELS
  • Publication number: 20110275868
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for preparing low molecular weight aromatic materials of value from a lignin-comprising starting material produced from biomass.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2011
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Applicant: BASF SE
    Inventors: Roman PROCHAZKA, Stefan Bitterlich, Otto Machhammer, Stephan Deuerlein, Dirk Klingler, Emmanouil Pantouflas, Alois Kindler, Bernd Zoels, Joachim Werther, Ernst-Ulrich Hartge, Peng Wang, Bernhard Schult, Frank Rimoschat, Rohde Heiko
  • Patent number: 8053615
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Assignee: Virent Energy Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Randy D. Cortright, Paul G. Blommel
  • Patent number: 8049049
    Abstract: This method of upgrading a biomass comprises: an upgrading step for performing upgrading treatment of a cellulose based biomass with an oxygen/carbon atomic ratio of at least 0.5, in presence of water and under a pressure of at least saturated water vapor pressure, and reducing said oxygen/carbon atomic ratio of said biomass to no more than 0.38, and a separation step for separating an upgraded reactant obtained from said upgrading step into a solid component and a liquid component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignees: JGC Corporation, The Tokyo Electric Power Company, Incorporated
    Inventors: Chiaki Suyama, Shinichi Tokuda, Masao Tsurui, Yoshinori Suto, Koji Tamura, Tsutomu Katagiri, Teruo Nagai, Jin Ogawa, Takeshi Yamaguchi
  • Patent number: 8039682
    Abstract: A hydrocarbon product stream having hydrocarbons with boiling points in the aviation fuel range is produced from renewable feedstocks such as plant and animal oils. The process involves treating a renewable feedstock by hydrogenating, deoxygenating, isomerization, and selectively hydrocracking the feedstock to produce paraffinic hydrocarbons having from about 9 to about 16 carbon atoms and a high iso/normal ratio in a single reaction zone containing a multifunctional catalyst, or set of catalysts, having hydrogenation, deoxygenation, isomerization and selective hydrocracking functions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: UOP LLC
    Inventors: Michael J. McCall, Joseph A. Kocal, Alakananda Bhattacharyya, Tom N. Kalnes, Timothy A. Brandvold
  • Publication number: 20110230688
    Abstract: A process for the conversion of coal into fuel bases comprises two successive direct liquefaction stages in ebullated bed reactors followed by a fixed bed hydrocracking stage. This process can produce excellent quality fuel bases (kerosene and diesel).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2011
    Publication date: September 22, 2011
    Applicant: IFP Energies nouvelles
    Inventors: Nadege CHARON, Hugues Dulot, Alain Quignard, Wilfried Weiss
  • Patent number: 8022260
    Abstract: The present invention relates to the conversion of solid biomass to liquid fuels and specialty chemicals. The process utilizes an activating step to make the biomass more susceptible to conversion, that is the biomass is broken down such that the components of the biomass are dissociated. Subsequently, the activated biomass undergoes a reaction to convert it to a bio-oil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Kior Inc.
    Inventors: Paul O'Connor, Dennis Stamires, Sjoerd Daamen
  • Patent number: 8022259
    Abstract: A method for hydroconversion of a combined feed of at least one low value petroleum derived hydrocarbon and at least one biorenewable feedstock in a hydroconversion reaction zone in the presence of a hydroconversion catalyst at hydroconversion reaction conditions for a period of time sufficient to form a hydroconversion reaction product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: UOP LLC
    Inventors: Lorenz Bauer, Michael McCall, Edwin Boldingh
  • Patent number: 8017818
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: Virent Energy Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Randy D. Cortright, Paul G. Blommel
  • Patent number: 8017820
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a continuous process for pretreating a lignocellulosic feedstock. A feedstock slurry is provided, which has a solids concentration of 10% to 33% by weight. The feedstock slurry is pumped through a heating train of at least two stages, each stage including a pump to increase stage pressure and a direct steam injection to heat the feedstock slurry. Acid is also added to the feedstock slurry prior to the heating train, during a heating stage, or after leaving the heating train; the acid is added at a concentration of 0% to 12% weight of acid on weight of initial feedstock. A heated, acidified feedstock slurry is thus produced. The heated, acidified feedstock slurry is flowed through a pre-treatment reactor at a temperature of 160° C. to 280° C. for a time sufficient to increase efficiency of conversion of cellulose in the feedstock to glucose using cellulase enzymes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: Iogen Energy Corporation
    Inventors: Brian Foody, Vijay Anand, David Rea
  • Patent number: 8013195
    Abstract: A method for preparing biomass for slurry processing. The method includes solubilizing the solid material into either a dissolved state or a suspended solid in a liquid phase, and processing the liquid phase to produce chemicals and fuels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Assignee: UOP LLC
    Inventors: Michael J. McCall, Robert J. Allen, David E. Mackowiak
  • Publication number: 20110213188
    Abstract: Methods for fractional catalytic pyrolysis which allow for conversion of biomass into a slate of desired products without the need for post-pyrolysis separation are described. The methods involve use of a fluid catalytic bed which is maintained at a suitable pyrolysis temperature. Biomass is added to the catalytic bed, preferably while entrained in a non-reactive gas such as nitrogen, causing the biomass to become pyrolyzed and forming the desired products in vapor and gas forms, allowing the desired products to be easily separated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2011
    Publication date: September 1, 2011
    Applicant: Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties, Inc.
    Inventors: Foster A. AGBLEVOR, Nii Ofei Mante
  • Patent number: 8003836
    Abstract: A process has been developed for producing diesel boiling range fuel from renewable feedstocks such as plant oils, animal fats and oils, and greases. The process involves treating a renewable feedstock by hydrogenating and deoxygenating to provide a diesel boiling range fuel hydrocarbon product. If desired, the hydrocarbon product can be isomerized to improve cold flow properties. A portion of the hydrocarbon product is recycled to the treatment zone to increase the hydrogen solubility of the reaction mixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: UOP LLC
    Inventors: Terry L. Marker, Peter Kokayeff, Suheil F. Abdo, Tom N. Kalnes
  • Patent number: 8003834
    Abstract: An integrated process has been developed for producing diesel boiling range fuel from renewable feedstocks such as animal and plant oils and using a byproduct naphtha as an extraction solvent in the generation of the renewable feedstock. The process involves treating a renewable feedstock by hydrogenating and deoxygenating to provide a hydrocarbon fraction useful as a diesel fuel or diesel boiling range fuel blending component. A byproduct naphtha stream is used as an extraction solvent in a process for the generation of the renewable feedstock. If desired, the hydrocarbon fraction can be isomerized to improve cold flow properties.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: UOP LLC
    Inventors: Terry L. Marker, Graham D. Ellis, Christopher D. Gosling
  • Patent number: 8003835
    Abstract: A method for converting solid biomass into hydrocarbons includes contacting the solid biomass with a catalyst in a first riser operated at a temperature in the range of from about 50° C. to about 200° C. to thereby produce a first biomass-catalyst mixture and a first product comprising hydrocarbons; a) separating the first product from the first biomass-catalyst mixture; c) charging the first biomass-catalyst mixture to a second riser operated at a temperature in the range of from about 200° C. to about 400° C. to thereby produce a second biomass-catalyst mixture and a second product comprising hydrocarbons; d) separating the second product from the second biomass-catalyst mixture; e) charging the second biomass-catalyst mixture to a third riser operated at a temperature greater than about 450° C. to thereby produce a spent catalyst and a third product comprising hydrocarbons; and f) separating the third effluent from the spent catalyst.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: Kior Inc.
    Inventors: Steve Yanik, Robert Bartek, Paul O'Connor, Dennis Stamires, Michael Brady
  • Patent number: 7998315
    Abstract: A process for pyrolyzing biomass is provided. The process comprises providing biomass to a pyrolysis reactor to produce a vapor product and condensing said vapor product to produce a condensed product, wherein a phase separation suppression agent is added during said process so as to promote the formation of a single phase condensed product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: Aston University
    Inventors: Anthony Bridgwater, Heiko Gerhauser, Astrid Effendi
  • Patent number: 7998226
    Abstract: An appliance is provided having a waste receptor module and an energy generation module for converting household waste into energy. The receptor module has a rotary drum with an opening for receiving the household waste and a steam reforming means for converting the waste into synthesis gas. A swing arm is attached adjacent to the opening in the rotary drum and a sealing door is mounted on the swing arm for sealing the opening when the waste receptor module is in operation. An outer door is used to cover the sealing door. The steam reforming means includes a tube mounted within the rotary drum for receiving the volatilized organic waste and an internal heater for heating the organic waste to temperatures to convert the waste into the synthesis gas. The energy generation module has an inlet in fluid communication with the waste receptor module for receiving the synthesis gas and a fuel cell for converting the synthesis gas into electrical energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Inventor: Terry R. Galloway
  • Patent number: 7999143
    Abstract: A process has been developed for producing diesel boiling range fuel from renewable feedstocks such as plant and animal fats and oils. The process involves treating a renewable feedstock by hydrogenating and deoxygenating to provide a hydrocarbon fraction useful as a diesel boiling range fuel. Water is added to the deoxygenation reaction to drive carbon monoxide and water to react to form hydrogen and carbon dioxide. The hydrogen is then consumed by the reactions. If desired, the hydrocarbon fraction can be isomerized to improve cold flow properties.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignees: UOP LLC, ENI S.p.A.
    Inventors: Terry L. Marker, Peter Kokayeff, Giovanni Faraci, Franco Baldiraghi
  • Patent number: 7999142
    Abstract: A process has been developed for producing diesel boiling range fuel from renewable feedstocks such as plant oils and animal oils, fats, and greases. The process involves treating a renewable feedstock by hydrogenating and deoxygenating i.e. decarboxylating, decarbonylating, and/or hydrodeoxygenating to provide a hydrocarbon fraction useful as a diesel boiling range fuel or diesel boiling range fuel blending component. If desired, the hydrocarbon fraction can be isomerized to improve cold flow properties. A portion of the hydrogenated and deoxygenated feedstock is selectively separated and then recycled to the treatment zone to increase the hydrogen solubility of the reaction mixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: UOP LLC
    Inventors: Tom N. Kalnes, Terry L. Marker, John P. Brady, Peter Kokayeff
  • Patent number: 7994375
    Abstract: A process for the conversion of biomass to a liquid fuel is presented. The process includes the production of diesel and naphtha boiling point range fuels by hydrotreating and hydrocracking of lignin in the biomass in a one step process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Assignee: UOP LLC
    Inventors: Terry L. Marker, John A. Petri
  • Patent number: 7982076
    Abstract: A process has been developed for producing diesel boiling range fuel from renewable feedstocks such as plant oils, animal fats and oils, and greases. The process involves treating a renewable feedstock by hydrogenating and deoxygenating to provide a diesel boiling range fuel hydrocarbon product. If desired, the hydrocarbon product can be isomerized to improve cold flow properties. A portion of the hydrocarbon product is recycled to the treatment zone to increase the hydrogen solubility of the reaction mixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: UOP LLC
    Inventors: Terry L. Marker, Peter Kokayeff, Suheil F. Abdo, Tom N. Kalnes
  • Patent number: 7982079
    Abstract: An integrated process has been developed for producing diesel boiling range fuel from renewable feedstocks such as plant and animal fats and oils and using a byproduct naphtha as a denaturant for ethanol. The process involves treating a renewable feedstock by hydrogenating and deoxygenating i.e. decarboxylating, decarbonylating, and/or hydrodeoxygenating to provide a hydrocarbon fraction useful as a diesel fuel or diesel boiling range fuel blending component. If desired, the hydrocarbon fraction can be isomerized to improve cold flow properties. A byproduct naphtha stream from the diesel boiling range fuel production process is used as the denaturant in an alcohol denaturing process for the generation of denaturized ethanol.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: UOP LLC
    Inventors: Terry L. Marker, Graham D. Ellis, Christopher D. Gosling
  • Patent number: 7982078
    Abstract: A process has been developed for producing diesel boiling range fuel from renewable feedstocks such as plant and animal fats and oils, the process providing for sulfur management. The process involves catalytically treating a renewable feedstock by hydrogenating and deoxygenating to provide a hydrocarbon fraction useful as a diesel boiling range fuel. The hydrocarbon fraction is isomerized to improve cold flow properties. A selective separation such as a hot high pressure hydrogen stripper is used to remove at least the carbon oxides from the first zone effluent before entering the isomerization zone, and to provide liquid recycle to the treating zone at pressure and temperature. A vapor stream is separated from the isomerization effluent and at least carbon dioxide is removed using at least one selective or flexible amine solution absorber. The resulting hydrogen-rich stream is recycled to the deoxygenation reaction zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: UOP LLC
    Inventors: John P. Brady, Tom N. Kalnes, Terry L. Marker
  • Patent number: 7982075
    Abstract: A process has been developed for producing diesel boiling range fuel from renewable feedstocks such as plant and animal fats and oils. The process involves treating a renewable feedstock by hydrogenating and deoxygenating i.e. decarboxylating, decarbonylating, and hydrodeoxygenating to provide a hydrocarbon fraction useful as a diesel boiling range fuel. A sulfur containing component is added to drive the conversion preferentially through carbonylation and carbonylation with reduced hydrodeoxygenation. If desired, the hydrocarbon fraction can be isomerized to improve cold flow properties.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignees: UOP LLC, ENI S.p.A.
    Inventors: Terry L. Marker, Peter Kokayeff, Suheil F. Abdo, Franco Baldiraghi, Luigina M. F. Sabatino
  • Patent number: 7982077
    Abstract: A process has been developed for producing diesel boiling range fuel from renewable feedstocks such as fats and oils from plants and animals where the process provides for sulfur-component management. The process involves catalytically treating a renewable feedstock by hydrogenating and deoxygenating to provide a hydrocarbon fraction useful as a diesel boiling range fuel. A selective separation such as a hot high pressure hydrogen stripper may be used to remove at least the carbon oxides from the first zone effluent and provide a liquid recycle stream at pressure and temperature. A vapor stream is separated from the net process effluent and at least carbon dioxide is removed using at least one selective or flexible amine absorber. The resulting hydrogen-rich stream is recycled to the reaction zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: UOP LLC
    Inventors: Tom N. Kalnes, Terry L. Marker, John P. Brady
  • Patent number: 7977517
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Assignee: Virent Energy Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Randy D. Cortright, Paul G. Blommel
  • Patent number: 7964761
    Abstract: Processes for conversion of lignin to liquid products such as bio-fuels and fuel additives are disclosed and described. A process for conversion of a lignin material to bio-fuels can include subjecting the lignin material to a base catalyzed depolymerization reaction to produce a partially depolymerized lignin. The partially depolymerized lignin can then be subjected to a stabilization/partial hydrodeoxygenation reaction to form a partially hydrodeoxygenated product. Following partial hydrodeoxygenation, the partially hydrodeoxygenated product can be reacted in a hydroprocessing step to form a bio-fuel. Each of these reaction steps can be performed in single or multiple steps, depending on the design of the process. The production of an intermediate partially hydrodeoxygenation product and subsequent reaction thereof can significantly reduce or eliminate reactor plugging and catalyst coking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Assignee: University of Utah Research Foundation
    Inventors: Wlodzimierz W. Zmierczak, Jan D. Miller
  • Patent number: 7959765
    Abstract: Methods for the thermolysis of lignocellulosic materials, such as wood, cellulose, lignin, and lignocellulose are provided. Some methods comprise combining the lignocellulosic material with an ionic liquid and subjecting the mixture of the lignocellulosic material and the ionic media to thermolysis conditions to form a recoverable product, such as a commodity chemical.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Assignee: North Carolina State Universtiy
    Inventor: Dimitris Argyropoulos
  • Patent number: 7960597
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods (processes) and systems for processing triglyceride-containing, biologically-derived oils to provide for base oils and transportation fuels, wherein partial oligomerization of fatty acids contained therein provide for an oligomerized mixture from which the base oils and transportation fuels can be extracted. Such methods and systems can involve an initial hydrotreating step or a direct isomerization of the oligomerized mixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Assignee: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.
    Inventor: Stephen Joseph Miller
  • Patent number: 7960596
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods (processes) and systems for processing triglyceride-containing, biologically-derived oils to provide for base oils and transportation fuels, wherein partial oligomerization of fatty acids contained therein provide for an oligomerized mixture from which the base oils and transportation fuels can be extracted. Such methods and systems can involve an initial hydrotreating step or a direct isomerization of the oligomerized mixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Assignee: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.
    Inventor: Stephen Joseph Miller
  • Patent number: 7960599
    Abstract: A process for producing industrially important chemicals from renewable resources is disclosed. This “biobased” process employs readily available, renewable resources comprising fatty acids rather than exploiting fossil sources, such as coal and petroleum. In one embodiment of the process 1-octene, along with methyl-9-decenoate and butadiene, is produced from linoleic acid via an enzymemediated isomerization reaction, followed by a metathesis reaction with ethylene. Linoleic acid can be isolated from vegetable oils, such as soybean oil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Assignee: Elevance Renewable Sciences, Inc.
    Inventors: James R. Millis, Michael J. Tupy, Timothy W. Abraham, Mervyn L. De Souza
  • Patent number: 7947858
    Abstract: In a method and apparatus for thermal processing of catalytically active biomass, the biomass is subjected in a receiving tank to a cracking temperature to undergo a cracking reaction. The biomass is transferred to a mixer pump to produce a reaction mixture which is directed into an outgassing chamber of an intermediate tank to produce an outgassed fraction and a non-outgassed liquid fraction. The outgassed fraction to produce fuel is cooled down, and a first portion of the non-outgassed liquid fraction is returned and subjected again to the cracking temperature in the receiving tank. A second portion of the non-outgassed liquid fraction is conducted in a bypass to the outgassing chamber of the intermediate tank for outgassing while fresh biomass is added. Residual matter settling in the intermediate tank is periodically removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Inventor: Jürgen Buchert
  • Patent number: 7942943
    Abstract: A down-draft fixed bed gasifier is disclosed that produced clean producer or synthesis gas. The gasifier can be installed at a stationary location or can be scaled down to enable placing the gasifier on a trailer that can be moved to the site of biomass generation. The gasifier is vertically oriented and generally cylindrical, and the design allows for a continual input of feedstock into the gasifier with less clogging and without lowering the gas pressure inside the gasifier. The design incorporates an internal catalyst to clean tars from the produced gas, and uses heat from the combustion chamber of the gasifier to heat the catalyst. The flow of air may be either positive flow or negative flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Assignee: Board of Supervisors of Louisiana State University and Agricultural and Mechanical College
    Inventor: Chandra S. Theegala
  • Patent number: 7928273
    Abstract: Processes for producing hydrocarbons in the gasoline and jet fuel range. The processes involve the thermal decarboxylation of fatty acids, which can be derived from the hydrolysis of triglycerides, which triglycerides can be vegetable oils, animal fats, or combinations thereof. The resulting hydrocarbons can be hydrocracked, and, optionally, isomerized and/or hydrotreated, to yield hydrocarbons in the jet fuel or gasoline range. Where the resulting hydrocarbons include olefinic double bonds, they can alternatively be combined with low molecular weight olefins, and subjected to olefin metathesis to yield hydrocarbons in the jet fuel or gasoline range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Inventor: David Bradin
  • Patent number: 7918973
    Abstract: A process for treating solid organic materials, especially for recycling treated wood, uses energy provided by hot gases at the bottom of a reactor column to perform a distillation operation which ensures splitting of organic bonds in the material and uses, as the distillation operation progresses, constant control between a first temperature of the hot gases before they are introduced into the lower part of the reactor column and a second temperature of a layer of the material located in an area immediately above the grid of the reactor column. When the first temperature and the second temperature are identical or virtually identical, corresponding to removal of all the organic bonds of the material by evaporation and transport by the hot gases from the bottom to the top of the column, the layer of material at the second temperature is removed in order to collect a material that largely consists of carbon and constitutes a secondary raw material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2011
    Assignee: Thermya
    Inventor: Jean-Sebastien Hery
  • Patent number: 7915470
    Abstract: A coupled electrochemical system and method for its use is disclosed, where a polyol feed, especially a biomass polyol containing feed is reduced in a reducing solution including HI and a metal ion capable of converting I2 to HI during polyol reduction to hydrocarbon or iodohydrocarbon products and where the metal ions are capable of electrochemical reduction so that the system can be run on a batch, semi-continuous or continuous basis. The system is capable of producing hydrocarbon solvent, fuels and lubricating oils.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Board of Regents, The University of Texas System
    Inventor: J. Michael Robinson