Decreasing the dependence on expensive platinum-group metals like iridium is vital for the expansion of “green” hydrogen production via proton-exchange membrane (PEM) water electrolysis. Efforts to develop lower-iridium catalytic components for electrolysis have typically focused on mixing iridium into a…
A team of scientists at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL; Richland, Wash.; www.pnnl.gov) recently unveiled a modified version of the “superalloy” Inconel 617, in which cobalt — a component of the alloy that is also a critical material with significant…
The industrial production of aluminum involves electrolysis of alumina (Al2O3) in molten cryolite, a mineral used as a solvent for the aluminum oxide raw material. Over time, the cryolite accumulates impurities, such as sodium, lithium and potassium ions, which degrade…
For product developers, understanding a substance’s biodegradability is essential in many applications to ensure compliance with toxicity and environmental regulations. Aropha, Inc. (Cleveland, Ohio; www.aropha.com) has developed a platform for biodegradability testing that reaches far beyond the typical breadth of…
Polybutadiene (PB) and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) are widely used polymers in a number of products (including vehicle tires, kitchen appliances, computer hardware, toys and others), but are not generally recycled. Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL; Oak Ridge,…
One way to develop safer, more-sustainable chemical processes is to substitute potentially harmful chemicals with less-risky alternatives. Organic solvents, which are widely used in industrial processes, can pose health, safety and environmental risks. Researchers at Rice University (Houston, Tex.; www.rice.edu)…
Versalis, Eni’s chemical company, announced the opening of a new plant in Porto Marghera for the production of plastics made wholly or partially from mechanically recycled raw materials. This project marks another key milestone in the company’s commitment to promoting…
Upgrading automation, digital and data infrastructure has become essential for chemical companies seeking long-term growth and competitiveness. From optimizing existing operations to innovating new materials for emerging markets, digital tools play a pivotal role in ensuring both technical and economic…
This paper discusses critical safety and efficiency challenges in drying operations, introduces the CO.Pilot, and shows how this system can enhance both safety and efficiency resulting in a true return on investment.
The Batch Column in CHEMCAD is a powerful unit operation that allows the fast, simple, and reliable estimation of the feasibility of a batch distillation process. Whether you're designing a new column, developing new separation processes in existing columns, optimizing…