Abstract:
Vessels can be become fouled due to normal operation thereof, for example, during lignocellulosic biomass hydrolysis, and the vessel will become inoperable unless the fouling is removed from the vessel. Accordingly, methods are disclosed herein for removing fouling substances from the interior surfaces of fouled pressurized vessels. The methods utilize a brief rapid change of pressure in the vessel. In some embodiments, the rapid pressure change is a decrease, and the rapid pressure change causes, for example, increased velocity of the fluid flowing in the vessel, flashing of a portion of the fluid to vapor, and removal of the fouling substance adhered to the interior surface of the vessel.
Abstract:
Disclosed are methods and apparatuses for recovering and reusing energy when processing materials with reactive fluids. More particularly, disclosed are methods and apparatuses for recovering and reusing energy from processes in which materials comprising polymers and/or oligomers are treated with a reactive fluid.
Abstract:
The present invention describes a process for a controlled conversion of a biomass feedstock, wherein the process comprises the steps of: loading the biomass feedstock to at least one reactor; liquefaction of the biomass feedstock into a monomer and/or oligomer sugar mixture in said reactor by treatment in hot compressed liquid water (HCW) at sub- and/or super-critical condition; and removal of the monomer and/or oligomer sugar mixture, being the product molecules, to avoid continued detrimental decomposition.
Abstract:
Compositions comprising C5 and C6 monosaccharides and low levels of undesirable impurities, such as compounds containing sulfur, nitrogen, or metals, are disclosed.
Abstract:
Compositions comprising C5 and C6 monosaccharides and low levels of undesirable impurities, such as compounds containing sulfur, nitrogen, or metals, are disclosed.
Abstract:
Compositions comprising lignin and low levels of undesirable impurities, such as compounds containing sulfur, nitrogen, or metals, are disclosed.
Abstract:
Cellulose-containing compositions and method of making same are disclosed. The compositions comprise a cellulose product comprising a type-I cellulose, a type-II cellulose, amorphous cellulose, or a combination thereof. Further, methods are disclosed for making these compositions and for further hydrolyzing these compositions. Additionally, uses for the cellulose-containing compositions are disclosed.