| Patent application number | Description | Published |
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| 20090054702 | HYDROGENATION PROCESS - The present invention provides a process for hydrogenating an aldehyde. In one aspect, the invention is directed to a process of hydrogenating an aldehyde with a catalyst comprising a Group VIII metal, where the catalyst is complexed with carbon monoxide, at a temperature of at least 120° C. In another aspect, the invention is directed to a process of hydrogenating an aldehyde by contacting a feed comprising the aldehyde with a Group VIII metal catalyst and hydrogen in the presence of carbon monoxide at a temperature of at most 90° C. and subsequently contacting the feed and catalyst with hydrogen at a temperature of at least 120° C. | 02-26-2009 |
| 20110154721 | BIOFUELS VIA HYDROGENOLYSIS-CONDENSATION - A method comprises a providing a carbohydrate; reacting the carbohydrate directly with hydrogen in the presence of a hydrogenolysis catalyst to produce a reaction product comprising a polyol; and then processing at least a portion of the reaction product to form a fuel blend. | 06-30-2011 |
| 20110154722 | DIRECT AQUEOUS PHASE REFORMING OF BIO-BASED FEEDSTOCKS - A method comprises providing a bio-based feedstock; contacting the bio-based feedstock with a solvent in a hydrolysis reaction to form an intermediate stream comprising carbohydrates; contacting the intermediate stream with an apr catalyst to form a plurality of oxygenated intermediates, wherein a first portion of the oxygenated intermediates are recycled to form the solvent; and processing at least a second portion of the oxygenated intermediates to form a fuel blend. | 06-30-2011 |
| 20110277375 | DIRECT AQUEOUS PHASE REFORMING AND ALDOL CONDENSATION TO FORM BIO-BASED FUELS - A method comprises providing a bio-based feedstock; contacting the bio-based feedstock with a solvent in a hydrolysis reaction to form an intermediate stream comprising carbohydrates; contacting the intermediate stream with an aqueous phase reforming catalyst to form a plurality of oxygenated intermediates, wherein a first portion of the oxygenated intermediates are recycled to form the solvent; and contacting at least a second portion of the oxygenated intermediates with a condensation catalyst comprising a base functionality to form a fuel blend. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110282115 | BIOFUELS VIA HYDROGENOLYSIS AND DEHYDROGENATION-CONDENSATION - A method comprising providing a carbohydrate feed; contacting at least a portion of the carbohydrate feed directly with hydrogen in the presence of a hydrogenolysis catalyst to produce a first reaction product comprising a stable hydroxyl intermediate; contacting at least a portion of the first reaction product comprising the stably hydroxyl intermediates with a dehydrogenation catalyst to form a second reaction product; and contacting at least a portion of the second reaction product with a condensation catalyst comprising a base functionality to form a fuel blend. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20120151826 | PROCESS TO PRODUCE BIOFUELS FROM BIOMASS - Processes to produce biofuels from biomass is provided where the biomass is contacted with an aqueous media to form a extracted biomass and at least a portion of an aqueous liquor separated from the extracted biomass containing soluble carbohydrate is treated with a purification substrate to form a treated carbohydrate stream having less than 35% of the sulfur content and less than 35% of the nitrogen content, based on the untreated aqueous liquor stream prior to contact with a hydrogenolysis catalyst to form a plurality of oxygenated intermediates that can be further processed to form a liquid fuel. An extracted biomass solids stream is also separated from the extracted biomass which is contacted with a first digestive solvent to form a pretreated biomass and then a second digestive solvent to form a solubilized pulp comprising soluble carbohydrates. | 06-21-2012 |
| 20120151827 | BIOMASS CONVERSION SYSTEMS HAVING INTEGRATED HEAT MANAGEMENT AND METHODS FOR USE THEREOF - Biomass conversion systems may incorporate integrated heat management to operate more efficiently during biomass conversion. Biomass conversion systems may comprise a first fluid circulation loop comprising a hydrothermal digestion unit, and a first catalytic reduction reactor unit in fluid communication with an inlet and an outlet of the hydrothermal digestion unit; and a second fluid circulation loop comprising a reaction product take-off line in fluid communication with the first fluid circulation loop, a second catalytic reduction reactor unit in fluid communication with the reaction product take-off line, and a recycle line establishing fluid communication between the first fluid circulation loop and an outlet of the second catalytic reduction reactor unit, where the first catalytic reduction reactor unit contains at least one first catalyst and the second catalytic reduction reactor unit contains at least one second catalyst, each being capable of activating molecular hydrogen. | 06-21-2012 |
| 20120152836 | PROCESS TO PRODUCE BIOFUELS FROM BIOMASS - Biofuels can be produced by: (i) providing a biomass containing celluloses, hemicelluloses, lignin, nitrogen compounds and sulfur compounds; (ii) removing sulfur compounds and nitrogen compounds from the biomass by contacting the biomass with a digestive solvent to form a pretreated biomass containing carbohydrates and having less than 35% of the sulfur content and less than 35% of the nitrogen content of untreated biomass on a dry mass basis; (iii) contacting the pretreated biomass directly with hydrogen in the presence of a hydrogenolysis catalyst to form a plurality of oxygenated intermediates, and (vi) processing at least a portion of the oxygenated intermediates to form a liquid fuel. | 06-21-2012 |
| 20120156742 | PROCESS TO PRODUCE BIOFUELS FROM BIOMASS - A method to produce biofuels from biomass is provide by contacting the biomass with an aqueous media to form an extracted biomass, separating at least a portion of an aqueous liquor from the extracted biomass thereby providing the aqueous liquor stream comprising soluble carbohydrates; contacting the aqueous liquor stream with a purification substrate effective to remove sulfur compounds and nitrogen compounds thereby producing a treated carbohydrate stream having less than 35% of the sulfur content and less than 35% of the nitrogen content of the untreated aqueous liquor feed, based on the untreated aqueous liquor stream, then contacting the treated carbohydrate stream with an aqueous phase reforming catalyst to form a plurality of oxygenated intermediates; and processing at least a portion of the oxygenated intermediates to form a liquid fuel. | 06-21-2012 |
| 20120156743 | PROCESS TO PRODUCE BIOFUELS FROM BIOMASS - A method to produce biofuels from biomass is provide by contacting the biomass with an aqueous media to form an extracted biomass, separating at least a portion of an aqueous liquor from the extracted biomass thereby providing the aqueous liquor stream comprising soluble carbohydrates; contacting the aqueous liquor stream with a purification substrate effective to remove sulfur compounds and nitrogen compounds thereby producing a treated carbohydrate stream having less than 35% of the sulfur content and less than 35% of the nitrogen content of the untreated aqueous liquor feed, based on the untreated aqueous liquor stream, then contacting the treated carbohydrate stream directly with hydrogen in the presence of a hydrogenolysis catalyst to form a plurality of oxygenated intermediates; and processing at least a portion of the oxygenated intermediates to form a liquid fuel. | 06-21-2012 |
| 20120157730 | PROCESS TO PRODUCE BIOFUELS FROM BIOMASS - A process for producing biofuels from biomass is provided by removing sulfur compounds and nitrogen compounds from the biomass by contacting the biomass with a digestive solvent to form a pretreated biomass containing soluble carbohydrates and having less than 35% of the sulfur content and less than 35% of the nitrogen content, based on untreated biomass on a dry mass basis, prior to carrying out aqueous phase reforming and further processing to form a liquid fuel. | 06-21-2012 |
| 20120174471 | PROCESS TO PRODUCE BIOFUELS FROM BIOMASS - Biomass is contacted with an aqueous media to form an extracted biomass. An aqueous liquor separated from the extracted biomass is treated with a purification substrate to form a treated carbohydrate stream having less than 35% of the sulfur content and less than 35% of the nitrogen content, based on the untreated aqueous liquor stream, prior to contact with an aqueous phase reforming catalyst to form oxygenated intermediates that can be further processed to form a liquid fuel. An extracted biomass solids stream is also separated from the extracted biomass which is contacted with a first digestive solvent and then a second digestive solvent to form a solubilized pulp. This solublilized pulp may be combined with the aqueous liquor stream or combined to an aqueous reforming reaction system or recycled to the aqueous media to be processed further for an effective process to produce the liquid fuel. | 07-12-2012 |
| 20120289439 | PROCESS FOR THE MANUFACTURE OF SULPHIDE COMPOUNDS - A process for the manufacture of carbon disulphide comprising the following steps reacting carbon dioxide with hydrogen sulphide to form carbonyl sulphide and water; and absorbing at least a portion of the water with a sorbent, leaving a mixture comprising carbonyl sulphide, carbon dioxide, and hydrogen sulphide. | 11-15-2012 |
| 20120317872 | PROCESS TO PRODUCE BIOFUELS FROM BIOMASS - Biofuels can be produced by: (i) providing a biomass containing celluloses, hemicelluloses, lignin, nitrogen compounds and sulfur compounds; (ii) contacting the biomass with a digestive solvent to form a pretreated biomass containing carbohydrates; (iii) contacting the pretreated biomass with hydrogen in the presence of a supported hydrogenolysis catalyst containing (a) sulfur, (b) Mo or W, and (c) Co and/or Ni incorporated into a suitable support to form a plurality of oxygenated intermediates, and (vi) processing at least a portion of the oxygenated intermediates to form a liquid fuel. | 12-20-2012 |
| 20120317873 | HYDROTHERMAL HYDROCATALYTIC TREATMENT OF BIOMASS - A method of hydrothermal hydrocatalytic treating biomass is provided. Lignocellulosic biomass is treated with a digestive solvent to form a pretreated biomass containing soluble carbohydrates. The pretreated biomass is contacted, with hydrogen at a temperature in the range of 150° C. to less than 300° C. in the presence of a pH buffering agent and a supported hydrogenolysis catalyst containing (a) sulfur, (b) Mo or W, and (c) Co, Ni or mixture thereof, incorporated into a suitable support, to form a plurality of oxygenated hydrocarbons. | 12-20-2012 |
| 20120322653 | AQUEOUS CATALYST SULFIDING PROCESS - A sulfidable catalyst containing at least one metal or metal oxide is sulfided under aqueous conditions. | 12-20-2012 |
| 20120323051 | CO-PRODUCTION OF BIOFUELS AND GLYCOLS - Methods and systems for co-producing higher hydrocarbons and glycols from bio-based feedstocks containing carbohydrates are disclosed. | 12-20-2012 |
| 20130109896 | PROCESS TO PRODUCE BIOFUELS VIA ORGANIC PHASE THERMAL HYDROCATALYTIC TREATMENT OF BIOMASS | 05-02-2013 |
| 20130152456 | BIOMASS CONVERSION SYSTEMS HAVING A FLUID CIRCULATION LOOP CONTAINING BACKFLUSHABLE FILTERS FOR CONTROL OF CELLULOSIC FINES AND METHODS FOR USE THEREOF - Digestion of cellulosic biomass to produce a hydrolysate may be accompanied by the formation of cellulosic fines which may be damaging to system components. Biomass conversion systems that may address the issue of cellulosic fines may comprise a fluid circulation loop comprising: a hydrothermal digestion unit; a solids separation unit that is in fluid communication with an outlet of the hydrothermal digestion unit; where the solids separation unit comprises a plurality of filters and the filters are in fluid communication with the fluid circulation loop in both a forward and a reverse flow direction; and a catalytic reduction reactor unit that is in fluid communication with an outlet of the solids separation unit and an inlet of the hydrothermal digestion unit; where at least one of the plurality of filters is in fluid communication with an inlet of the catalytic reduction reactor unit. | 06-20-2013 |
| 20130152457 | SYSTEMS CAPABLE OF ADDING CELLULOSIC BIOMASS TO A DIGESTION UNIT OPERATING AT HIGH PRESSURES AND ASSOCIATED METHODS FOR CELLULOSIC BIOMASS PROCESSING - When processing cellulosic biomass, it may be desirable for a digestion unit to operate without being fully depressurized for process efficiency purposes. Methods for processing cellulosic biomass may comprise providing a biomass conversion system comprising a pressurization zone and a digestion unit that are operatively connected to one another; providing cellulosic biomass at a first pressure; introducing at least a portion of the cellulosic biomass into the pressurization zone and pressurizing the pressurization zone to a second pressure higher than the first pressure; after pressurizing the pressurization zone, transferring at least a portion of the cellulosic biomass from the pressurization zone to the digestion unit, which is at a third pressure that is less than or equal to the second pressure but higher than the first pressure; and digesting at least a portion of the cellulosic biomass in the digestion unit to produce a hydrolysate comprising soluble carbohydrates. | 06-20-2013 |
| 20130152458 | SYSTEMS HAVING DIGESTION UNITS WITH CAPABILITY FOR LOADING CELLULOSIC BIOMASS UNDER HIGH PRESSURE AND ASSOCIATED METHODS FOR CELLULOSIC BIOMASS PROCESSING - When processing cellulosic biomass, it may be desirable for a digestion unit to operate without being fully depressurized for process efficiency purposes. A biomass conversion system can comprise a first digestion unit and a second digestion unit that are operatively connected to one another; a valve separating the first digestion unit from the second digestion unit; a fluid circulation loop establishing fluid communication between an outlet of the first digestion unit and an inlet of the second digestion unit; and a bypass line establishing fluid communication between an outlet of the second digestion unit and the fluid circulation loop. | 06-20-2013 |
| 20130158308 | BIOMASS CONVERSION SYSTEMS HAVING A FLUID CIRCULATION LOOP CONTAINING A CENTRIPETAL FORCE-BASED SEPARATION MECHANISM FOR CONTROL OF CELLULOSIC FINES AND METHODS FOR USE THEREOF - Digestion of cellulosic biomass to produce a hydrolysate may be accompanied by the formation of cellulosic fines which may be damaging to system components. Biomass conversion systems that may address the issue of cellulosic fines may comprise a fluid circulation loop comprising: a hydrothermal digestion unit; a solids separation unit that is in fluid communication with an outlet of the hydrothermal digestion unit; where the solids separation unit comprises a centripetal force-based separation mechanism that comprises a fluid outlet and a solids outlet; and a catalytic reduction reactor unit that is in fluid communication with the fluid outlet of the centripetal force-based separation mechanism and an inlet of the hydrothermal digestion unit. | 06-20-2013 |
| 20130165698 | CO-PRODUCTION OF BIOFUELS AND GLYCOLS - Methods and systems for co-producing higher hydrocarbons and glycols from bio-based feedstocks containing carbohydrates are disclosed. | 06-27-2013 |
| 20130199085 | DIRECT AQUEOUS PHASE REFORMING OF BIO-BASED FEEDSTOCKS - A method comprises providing a bio-based feedstock; contacting the bio-based feedstock with a solvent in a hydrolysis reaction to form an intermediate stream comprising carbohydrates; contacting the intermediate stream with an apr catalyst to form a plurality of oxygenated intermediates, wherein a first portion of the oxygenated intermediates are recycled to form the solvent; and processing at least a second portion of the oxygenated intermediates to form a fuel blend. | 08-08-2013 |
| 20140000153 | BIOMASS CONVERSION SYSTEMS PROVIDING INTEGRATED STABILIZATION OF A HYDROLYSATE USING A SLURRY CATALYST FOLLOWING BIOMASS PRETREATMENT AND METHODS FOR USE THEREOF | 01-02-2014 |
| 20140000154 | BIOMASS CONVERSION SYSTEMS PROVIDING INTEGRATED STABILIZATION OF A HYDROLYSATE USING A SLURRY CATALYST AND METHODS FOR USE THEREOF | 01-02-2014 |
| 20140004015 | DIGESTION UNITS CONFIGURED FOR HIGH YIELD BIOMASS PROCESSING | 01-02-2014 |
| 20140005444 | METHODS FOR HYDROTHERMAL DIGESTION OF CELLULOSIC BIOMASS SOLIDS IN THE PRESENCE OF A DISTRIBUTED SLURRY CATALYST | 01-02-2014 |
| 20140031599 | BIOMASS CONVERSION SYSTEMS CONTAINING A MOVING BED CATALYST FOR STABILIZATION OF A HYDROLSATE AND METHODS FOR USE THEREOF - Digestion of cellulosic biomass solids to form a hydrolysate may be conducted with in situ catalytic reduction to transform soluble carbohydrates in the hydrolysate into a more stable reaction product. Biomass conversion systems for performing such a transformation can comprise: a hydrothermal digestion unit that also contains a first catalyst capable of activating molecular hydrogen, the first catalyst being fluidly mobile within the hydrothermal digestion unit; an optional hydrogen feed line that is operatively connected to the hydrothermal digestion unit; a fluid circulation loop comprising the hydrothermal digestion unit and a catalytic reduction reactor unit that contains a second catalyst capable of activating molecular hydrogen; and a catalyst transport mechanism external to the hydrothermal digestion unit, the catalyst transport mechanism being capable of conveying at least a portion of the first catalyst to another location from a catalyst collection zone located within the hydrothermal digestion unit. | 01-30-2014 |
| 20140088330 | BIOMASS CONVERSION SYSTEMS HAVING A SINGLE-VESSEL HYDROTHERMAL DIGESTION UNIT/CATALYTIC REDUCTION REACTOR UNIT FOR INTEGRATED STABILIZATION OF A HYDROLYSATE AND METHODS FOR USE THEREOF - Digestion of cellulosic biomass solids may be conducted in a pressure vessel that contains both a hydrothermal digestion unit and a catalytic reduction reactor unit. Biomass conversion systems incorporating such a feature may comprise: a pressure vessel that comprises a first section comprising a hydrothermal digestion unit and a second section comprising a first catalytic reduction reactor unit that contains a first catalyst capable of activating molecular hydrogen; wherein the hydrothermal digestion unit and the first catalytic reduction reactor unit are in fluid communication with one another; a biomass feed mechanism that is operatively connected to the pressure vessel, the biomass feed mechanism being capable of introducing cellulosic biomass solids to the pressure vessel and also capable of withdrawing a reaction product from the first catalytic reduction reactor unit; and a hydrogen feed line that is operatively connected to the first catalytic reduction reactor unit. | 03-27-2014 |
| 20140096764 | BIOMASS CONVERSION SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR USE THEREOF - Digestion of cellulosic biomass solids to form a hydrolysate may be accompanied by decomposition if the soluble carbohydrates produced from the biomass under hydrothermal digestion conditions are not transformed into a more stable reaction product. Biomass conversion systems may be configured to address this issue and others. Biomass conversion systems can comprise: a hydrothermal digestion unit; a first catalytic reduction reactor unit fluidly coupled to the hydrothermal digestion unit along its height by two or more fluid inlet lines and two or more fluid return lines, the first catalytic reduction reactor unit containing a catalyst capable of activating molecular hydrogen; and a fluid circulation loop comprising the hydrothermal digestion unit and a second catalytic reduction reactor unit that contains a catalyst capable of activating molecular hydrogen. | 04-10-2014 |
| 20140109464 | LIGNOCELLULOSIC BIOMASS CONVERSION - A partially digested biomass solids is converted in a fixed bed catalytic reduction reactor under hydrothermal catalytic condition with a supported metal catalyst having a high void fraction. The catalyst having high void fraction allows high permeability and extends reaction run time. | 04-24-2014 |
| 20140116425 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR PROCESSING LIGNIN THROUGH VISCOSITY REDUCTION DURING HYDROTHERMAL DIGESTION OF CELLULOSIC BIOMASS SOLIDS - Digestion of cellulosic biomass solids may be complicated by lignin release therefrom, which can produce a highly viscous phenolics liquid phase comprising lignin polymer. Systems for processing a phenolics liquid phase comprising lignin polymer may comprise: a hydrothermal digestion unit; a viscosity measurement device within the hydrothermal digestion unit or in flow communication with the hydrothermal digestion unit; a temperature control device within the hydrothermal digestion unit or in flow communication with the hydrothermal digestion unit; and a processing device communicatively coupled to the viscosity measurement device and the temperature control device, the processing device being configured to actuate the temperature control device if the viscosity of a fluid phase comprising lignin exceeds a threshold value in the biomass conversion system. | 05-01-2014 |
| 20140117275 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR PROCESSING LIGNIN DURING HYDROTHERMAL DIGESTION OF CELLULOSIC BIOMASS SOLIDS - Digestion of cellulosic biomass solids may be complicated by lignin release therefrom, which can produce a highly viscous phenolics liquid phase comprising lignin polymer. Methods for digesting cellulosic biomass solids may comprise: providing cellulosic biomass solids in the presence of a digestion solvent, molecular hydrogen, and a slurry catalyst capable of activating molecular hydrogen; at least partially converting the cellulosic biomass solids into a phenolics liquid phase comprising lignin, an aqueous phase comprising an alcoholic component derived from the cellulosic biomass solids, and an optional light organics phase; wherein at least a portion of the slurry catalyst accumulates in the phenolics liquid phase as it forms; and reducing the viscosity of the phenolics liquid phase. | 05-01-2014 |
| 20140117276 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR DISTRIBUTING A SLURRY CATALYST IN CELLULOSIC BIOMASS SOLIDS - Digestion of cellulosic biomass solids may be complicated by release of lignin therefrom. Methods for digesting cellulosic biomass solids may comprise: heating cellulosic biomass solids and a digestion solvent in the presence of molecular hydrogen and a slurry catalyst capable of activating molecular hydrogen, thereby forming a phenolics liquid phase comprising lignin, an aqueous phase comprising an alcoholic component derived from the cellulosic biomass solids, and an optional light organics phase, the slurry catalyst being distributed in the cellulosic biomass solids and at least a portion of the slurry catalyst accumulating in the phenolics liquid phase as it forms; conveying at least a portion of the phenolics liquid phase and the slurry catalyst to a location above at least a portion of the cellulosic biomass solids; and after conveying the phenolics liquid phase and the slurry catalyst, releasing them such that they come in contact with the cellulosic biomass solids. | 05-01-2014 |
| 20140117277 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR PROCESSING LIGNIN DURING HYDROTHERMAL DIGESTION OF CELLULOSIC BIONASS SOLIDS - Digestion of cellulosic biomass solids may be complicated by release of lignin therefrom. Methods for digesting cellulosic biomass solids may comprise: providing cellulosic biomass solids in a digestion solvent; at least partially converting the cellulosic biomass solids into a phenolics liquid phase comprising lignin, an aqueous phase comprising an alcoholic component derived from the cellulosic biomass solids, and an optional light organics phase; and separating the phenolics liquid phase from the aqueous phase. | 05-01-2014 |
| 20140121418 | Method and Systems for Procesing Lignin During Hydrothermal Digestion of Cellulosic Biomass Solids While Producing a Monohydric Alcohol Feed - Digestion of cellulosic biomass solids may be complicated by release of lignin therefrom. Methods for digesting cellulosic biomass solids may comprise: providing cellulosic biomass solids in the presence of a digestion solvent, molecular hydrogen, and a slurry catalyst capable of activating molecular hydrogen; at least partially converting the cellulosic biomass solids into a phenolics liquid phase comprising lignin, an aqueous phase comprising a glycol derived from the cellulosic biomass solids, and an optional light organics phase; wherein at least a portion of the slurry catalyst accumulates in the phenolics liquid phase as it forms; combining the glycol with the phenolics liquid phase, thereby forming a combined phase; and heating the combined phase in the presence of molecular hydrogen; wherein heating the combined phase reduces the viscosity of the phenolics liquid phase and transforms at least a portion of the glycol into a monohydric alcohol. | 05-01-2014 |
| 20140121419 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR PROCESSING LIGNIN DURING HYDROTHERMAL DIGESTION OF CELLULOSIC BIOMASS SOLIDS - Digestion of cellulosic biomass solids may be complicated by release of lignin therefrom. Methods for digesting cellulosic biomass solids may comprise: providing cellulosic biomass solids in a digestion solvent; at least partially converting the cellulosic biomass solids into a phenolics liquid phase comprising lignin, an aqueous phase comprising an alcoholic component derived from the cellulosic biomass solids, and an optional light organics phase; combining at least the phenolics liquid phase and the aqueous phase with one another, thereby forming a combined phase; and separating at least a portion of the alcoholic component from at least a portion of the combined phase. | 05-01-2014 |
| 20140121420 | METHODS FOR PRODUCTION AND PROCESSING OF A GLYCOL REACTION PRODUCT OBTAINED FROM HYDROTHERMAL DIGESTION OF CELLULOSIC BIOMASS SOLIDS - Hydrothermal digestion of cellulosic biomass solids may be conducted such that a glycol reaction product is formed for subsequent processing. Processing of a glycol reaction product may include a drying operation conducted prior to condensation of the glycol reaction product into higher molecular weight compounds. Methods for digesting cellulosic biomass solids to form a glycol reaction product can comprise: providing cellulosic biomass solids and a slurry catalyst in a hydrothermal digestion unit, the slurry catalyst being capable of activating molecular hydrogen; heating the cellulosic biomass solids in the hydrothermal digestion unit in the presence of the slurry catalyst, a digestion solvent, and molecular hydrogen, thereby forming a liquor phase comprising soluble carbohydrates; and performing a first catalytic reduction reaction on the soluble carbohydrates within the hydrothermal digestion unit, thereby at least partially converting the soluble carbohydrates into a reaction product comprising a glycol. | 05-01-2014 |
| 20140121423 | METHODS FOR HYDROTHERMAL DIGESTION OF CELLULOSIC BIOMASS SOLIDS USING A GLYCEROL SOLVENT SYSTEM - Hydrothermal digestion of cellulosic biomass solids in a glycerol solvent system can convert both the cellulosic biomass solids and the glycerol into a glycol reaction product for subsequent processing without the need for further solvent separation. Methods for digesting cellulosic biomass solids in a glycerol solvent system can comprise: providing cellulosic biomass solids and a slurry catalyst in a hydrothermal digestion unit, the slurry catalyst being capable of activating molecular hydrogen; heating the cellulosic biomass solids in the hydrothermal digestion unit in the presence of the slurry catalyst, molecular hydrogen, and a solvent system comprising glycerol, thereby forming soluble carbohydrates; and at least partially converting the soluble carbohydrates and the glycerol into a reaction product comprising a glycol within the hydrothermal digestion unit. | 05-01-2014 |
| 20140128639 | METHODS FOR CONVERSION OF A GLYCOL REACTION PRODUCT OBTAINED FROM HYDROTHERMAL DIGESTION OF CELLULOSIC BIOMASS SOLIDS INTO A DRIED MONOHYDRIC ALCOHOL FEED - Hydrothermal digestion of cellulosic biomass solids may produce a glycol reaction product for subsequent processing. Methods for digesting cellulosic biomass solids to form and process a glycol reaction product may comprise: providing cellulosic biomass solids and a slurry catalyst in a hydrothermal digestion unit, the slurry catalyst being capable of activating molecular hydrogen; heating the cellulosic biomass solids in the hydrothermal digestion unit in the presence of the slurry catalyst, a digestion solvent, and molecular hydrogen, thereby forming a liquor phase comprising soluble carbohydrates; performing a first catalytic reduction reaction on the soluble carbohydrates within the hydrothermal digestion unit, thereby at least partially converting the soluble carbohydrates into a reaction product comprising a glycol; at least partially drying the reaction product, thereby forming a dried reaction product comprising a dried glycol; and at least partially converting the dried glycol into a monohydric alcohol external to the hydrothermal digestion unit. | 05-08-2014 |
| 20140161689 | PROCESS TO PRODUCE BIOFUELS FROM BIOMASS - A process for producing biofuels from biomass is provided by removing sulfur compounds and nitrogen compounds from the biomass by contacting the biomass with a digestive solvent to form a pretreated biomass containing soluble carbohydrates and having less than 35% of the sulfur content and less than 35% of the nitrogen content, based on untreated biomass on a dry mass basis, prior to carrying out aqueous phase reforming and further processing to form a liquid fuel. | 06-12-2014 |
| 20140165456 | HYDROTHERMAL HYDROCATALYTIC TREATMENT OF BIOMASS USING WATER TOLERANT CATALYSTS - A method of hydrothermal hydrocatalytic treating biomass is provided. Lignocellulosic biomass solids is provided to a hydrothermal digestion unit in the presence of a digestive solvent, and a supported hydrogenolysis catalyst containing (a) sulfur, (b) Mo or W, and (c) Co, Ni or mixture thereof, incorporated into an alumina support, which support is predominantly alpha alumina; (ii) heating the lignocellulosic biomass solids and digestive solvent in the presence of hydrogen, and supported hydrogenolysis catalyst thereby forming a product solution containing plurality of oxygenated hydrocarbons, said alumina support having a specific surface area of up to about 30 m | 06-19-2014 |
| 20140166221 | RECYCLABLE BUFFER FOR THE HYDROTHERMAL HYDROCATALYTIC TREATMENT OF BIOMASS - A method of hydrothermal hydrocatalytic treating biomass is provided. Lignocellulosic biomass solids is provided to a hydrothermal digestion unit in the presence of a digestive solvent, at least one of ammonia or a source of ammonia, and a supported hydrogenolysis catalyst containing (a) sulfur, (b) Mo or W, and (c) Co, Ni or mixture thereof, incorporated into a suitable support. The lignocellulosic biomass solids and digestive solvent are heated in the presence of hydrogen, supported hydrogenolysis catalyst and the at least one of ammonia or a source of ammonia forming a product solution containing plurality of oxygenated hydrocarbons and ammonia. At least a portion of ammonia is separated and recycled to the hydrothermal digestion unit. | 06-19-2014 |
| 20140171694 | HYDROTHERMAL HYDROCATALYTIC TREATMENT OF BIOMASS USING WATER TOLERANT CATALYSTS - A method of hydrothermal hydrocatalytic treating biomass is provided. Lignocellulosic biomass solids is provided to a hydrothermal digestion unit in the presence of a digestive solvent, and a supported hydrogenolysis catalyst containing (a) sulfur, (b) Mo or W, and (c) Co, Ni or mixture thereof, incorporated into a group 4 metal oxide support; (ii) heating the lignocellulosic biomass solids and digestive solvent in the presence of hydrogen, and the supported hydrogenolysis catalyst thereby forming a product solution containing plurality of oxygenated hydrocarbons, said catalyst retaining a crush strength of at least 50% after being subjected to an aqueous phase stability test compared with before the aqueous phase stability test or a crush strength of at least 0.25 kg after being subjected to an aqueous phase stability test. | 06-19-2014 |
| 20140173975 | BIOFUELS VIA HYDROGENOLYSIS-CONDENSATION - A method comprises providing a carbohydrate; reacting the carbohydrate with hydrogen in the presence of a hydrogenolysis catalyst to produce reaction products comprising an alcohol, a polyol, and a higher polyol; recycling the higher polyol through the hydrogenolysis reaction to produce reaction products comprising an alcohol and a polyol and a higher polyol; processing at least a portion of the reaction products to form a fuel blend. | 06-26-2014 |
| 20140174432 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR PROMOTING HYDROGEN GAS DISTRIBUTION WITHIN CELLULOSIC BIOMASS SOLIDS DURING HYDROTHERMAL DIGESTION - Methods and systems for promoting hydrogen gas distribution within cellulosic biomass solids during hydrothermal digestion. On exemplary method can comprise: heating a first portion of cellulosic biomass solids being contacted by a continuous liquid phase and a second portion of cellulosic biomass solids being contacted by a continuous gas phase in the presence of an upwardly directed flow of molecular hydrogen and a slurry catalyst capable of activating molecular hydrogen in the continuous liquid phase; conveying at least a portion of the continuous liquid phase and at least a portion of the slurry catalyst to a location within the continuous gas phase above at least a portion of the cellulosic biomass solids; and after conveying the continuous liquid phase and the slurry catalyst, releasing them such that they contact the second portion of cellulosic biomass solids. | 06-26-2014 |
| 20140174433 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR PROMOTING HYDROGEN GAS DISTRIBUTION WITHIN CELLULOSIC BIOMASS SOLIDS DURING HYDROTHERMAL DIGESTION - Methods and systems for promoting hydrogen gas distribution within cellulosic biomass solids during hydrothermal digestion. One exemplary method can comprise providing cellulosic biomass solids in a hydrothermal digestion unit in the presence of a digestion solvent and a slurry catalyst capable of activating molecular hydrogen; and heating the cellulosic biomass solids and the digestion solvent in the presence of molecular hydrogen, thereby forming an alcoholic component derived from the cellulosic biomass solids, at least a portion of the molecular hydrogen being introduced to the hydrothermal digestion unit via a plurality of spaced apart fluid inlets vertically disposed about the height of the hydrothermal digestion unit. | 06-26-2014 |
| 20140212341 | BIOMASS CONVERSION SYSTEMS HAVING A FLUID CIRCULATION LOOP CONTAINING A CENTRIPETAL FORCE-BASED SEPARATION MECHANISM FOR CONTROL OF CELLULOSIC FINES AND METHODS FOR USE THEREOF - Digestion of cellulosic biomass to produce a hydrolysate may be accompanied by the formation of cellulosic fines which may be damaging to system components. Biomass conversion systems that may address the issue of cellulosic fines may comprise a fluid circulation loop comprising: a hydrothermal digestion unit; a solids separation unit that is in fluid communication with an outlet of the hydrothermal digestion unit; where the solids separation unit comprises a centripetal force-based separation mechanism that comprises a fluid outlet and a solids outlet; and a catalytic reduction reactor unit that is in fluid communication with the fluid outlet of the centripetal force-based separation mechanism and an inlet of the hydrothermal digestion unit. | 07-31-2014 |
| 20140275513 | METHODS FOR DIGESTION OF CELLULOSIC BIOMASS SOLIDS IN THE PRESENCE OF A PHENOLIC SOLVENT GENERATED IN SITU FROM LIGNIN - Digestion of cellulosic biomass solids can be enhanced in the presence of a phenolic solvent. Methods for digesting cellulosic biomass solids can comprise providing cellulosic biomass solids in a digestion medium comprising water and an organic solvent; heating the cellulosic biomass solids and the digestion medium in a digestion unit in the presence of molecular hydrogen and a slurry catalyst capable of activating molecular hydrogen, thereby forming an alcoholic component and liberating lignin, the lignin forming a phenolics liquid phase partitioned from the digestion medium and at least a portion of the slurry catalyst accumulating in the phenolics liquid phase; removing at least a portion of the phenolics liquid phase and accumulated slurry catalyst from the digestion unit; converting at least a portion of the phenolics liquid phase into a phenolic solvent; and returning at least a portion of the phenolic solvent and the slurry catalyst to the digestion unit. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140275514 | METHODS FOR DIGESTION OF CELLULOSIC BIOMASS SOLIDS IN THE PRESENCE OF A PHENOLIC SOLVENT - Digestion of cellulosic biomass solids can be enhanced in the presence of a phenolic solvent. Methods for digesting cellulosic biomass solids can comprise providing cellulosic biomass solids in a digestion medium comprising a phenolic solvent; and heating the cellulosic biomass solids and the digestion medium in a digestion unit in the presence of molecular hydrogen and a slurry catalyst capable of activating molecular hydrogen, thereby forming an alcoholic component derived from the cellulosic biomass solids and liberating lignin from the cellulosic biomass solids into the digestion medium. The methods can further comprise converting at least a portion of the lignin into a phenolic solvent and returning the phenolic solvent formed from lignin to the cellulosic biomass solids. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140275515 | METHODS FOR DIGESTION OF CELLULOSIC BIOMASS SOLIDS IN THE PRESENCE OF A PHENOLIC SOLVENT GENERATED IN SITU FROM LIGNIN - Digestion of cellulosic biomass solids can be enhanced in the presence of a phenolic solvent. Methods for digesting cellulosic biomass solids can comprise providing cellulosic biomass solids containing up to about 50% water by mass in a digestion medium comprising about 50% or more of an organic solvent by volume; heating the cellulosic biomass solids and the digestion medium in a digestion unit in the presence of molecular hydrogen and a slurry catalyst capable of activating molecular hydrogen, thereby forming an alcoholic component derived from the cellulosic biomass solids and liberating lignin therefrom; wherein the digestion medium and the water form a biphasic mixture in which the alcoholic component, slurry catalyst, and lignin are contained; removing at least a portion of the biphasic mixture from the digestion unit; converting at least a portion of the lignin into a phenolic solvent; and returning the phenolic solvent to the digestion unit. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140330048 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS EMPLOYING AN INCLINED DIGESTION UNIT FOR HYDROTHERMAL DIGESTION OF CELLULOSIC BIOMASS SOLIDS - Maintaining long residence times during hydrothermal digestion of cellulosic biomass solids may be complicated by a number of factors, including biomass compaction. Advantages in this regard may be realized by digesting cellulosic biomass solids in an inclined digestion unit. Such methods can comprise: introducing cellulosic biomass solids to a hydrothermal digestion unit comprising one or more inclined surfaces therein; introducing a fluid phase digestion medium containing a slurry catalyst to the hydrothermal digestion unit, the slurry catalyst being capable of activating molecular hydrogen; supplying an upwardly directed flow of molecular hydrogen from a source disposed along each inclined surface as the cellulosic biomass solids descend along each inclined surface; and heating the cellulosic biomass solids as they descend along each inclined surface in the presence of the slurry catalyst and the molecular hydrogen, thereby forming an alcoholic component derived from the cellulosic biomass solids. | 11-06-2014 |
| 20140330049 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS EMPLOYING A HORIZONTALLY CONFIGURED DIGESTION UNIT FOR HYDROTHERMAL DIGESTION OF CELLULOSIC BIOMASS SOLIDS - Biomass compaction during hydrothermal digestion of cellulosic biomass solids may become problematic, particularly as the vertical height of a cellulosic biomass charge increases. Compaction may be decreased in a horizontally configured hydrothermal digestion unit. Methods for digesting cellulosic biomass solids may comprise: providing a hydrothermal digestion unit having a length or a width greater than its height and containing a fluid phase digestion medium and a slurry catalyst capable of activating molecular hydrogen; introducing cellulosic biomass solids to the hydrothermal digestion unit; distributing the cellulosic biomass solids laterally within the hydrothermal digestion unit; after or while the cellulosic biomass solids are being distributed, supplying an upwardly directed flow of molecular hydrogen through the cellulosic biomass solids and the fluid phase digestion medium; and heating the cellulosic biomass solids in the presence of the slurry catalyst and the molecular hydrogen, thereby forming an alcoholic component derived from the cellulosic biomass solids. | 11-06-2014 |
| 20140356250 | BIOMASS CONVERSION SYSTEMS HAVING A FLUID CIRCULATION LOOP CONTAINING BACKFLUSHABLE FILTERS FOR CONTROL OF CELLULOSIC FINES AND METHODS FOR USE THEREOF - Digestion of cellulosic biomass to produce a hydrolysate may be accompanied by the formation of cellulosic fines which may be damaging to system components. Biomass conversion systems that may address the issue of cellulosic fines may comprise a fluid circulation loop comprising: a hydrothermal digestion unit; a solids separation unit that is in fluid communication with an outlet of the hydrothermal digestion unit; where the solids separation unit comprises a plurality of filters and the filters are in fluid communication with the fluid circulation loop in both a forward and a reverse flow direction; and a catalytic reduction reactor unit that is in fluid communication with an outlet of the solids separation unit and an inlet of the hydrothermal digestion unit; where at least one of the plurality of filters is in fluid communication with an inlet of the catalytic reduction reactor unit. | 12-04-2014 |
| 20150080620 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR SUPPLYING HYDROGEN TO A HYDROCATALYTIC REACTION - Systems and methods for supplying hydrogen to a hydrocatalytic reaction of a biomass feedstock by gasification of a biomass material. In a preferred embodiment, the biomass material comprises hog fuel. In one embodiment, an overhead fraction of the hydrocatalytic reaction is further processed to generate higher molecular weight compounds, which can be used to produce a fuel product. In one embodiment, the biomass material comprises an outer bark layer of wood logs used as part of the biomass feedstock subject to the hydrocatalytic reaction. | 03-19-2015 |
| 20150080622 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR SUPPLYING HYDROGEN TO A HYDROCATALYTIC REACTION - A bottom fraction of a product of a hydrocatalytic reaction is gasified to generate hydrogen for use in further hydrocatalytic reactions. In one embodiment, one or more volatile organic compounds is also vaporized using heat generated in the gasification process. In one embodiment, an overhead fraction of the hydrocatalytic reaction is further processed to generate higher molecular weight compounds. In another embodiment, a product of the further processing is separated into a bottom fraction and an overhead fraction, where the bottom fraction is also gasified to generate hydrogen for use in further hydrocatalytic reactions. | 03-19-2015 |
| 20150080626 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR SUPPLYING HYDROGEN TO A HYDROCATALYTIC REACTION - A bottom fraction of a product of a hydrocatalytic reaction is gasified to generate hydrogen for use in further hydrocatalytic reactions. In one embodiment, an overhead fraction of the hydrocatalytic reaction is further processed to generate higher molecular weight compounds. In another embodiment, a product of the further processing is separated into a bottom fraction and an overhead fraction, where the bottom fraction is also gasified to generate hydrogen for use in further hydrocatalytic reactions. | 03-19-2015 |
