Fermenting sugar is at the heart of many bio-based chemical and biofuel processes, but obtaining sugars from cellulosic biomass at low cost is an ongoing challenge. A new process using a reusable solid catalyst is capable of breaking down a…
When coal-derived synthesis gas (syngas) is converted to liquid fuel by the Fischer-Tropsch (F-T) process, the initial product is mostly straight-chain waxy paraffins that can be upgraded by hydroprocessing to obtain diesel fuel and naphtha, which are used for gasoline…
A highly active nickel catalyst for performing cross-coupling reactions has been developed by the research group of professor Shu Kobayashi at the University of Tokyo (Japan; www.chem.s.u-tokyo.ac.jp). The researchers were able to immobilize nickel nanoparticles onto a polymer support matrix…
Let’s face it, valves may not be the most glamorous piece of equipment in a chemical process industries (CPI) facility, but no plant can function without them. In addition, multiple challenges and issues specific to the chemical processing industry affect…
A process from Dow Water & Process Solutions (DW&PS; Edina, Minn.; www.dowwaterandprocess.com) uses a unique adsorbent resin to improve the taste of orange juice. Amberlite FPX66 is a macroreticular, non-functionalized adsorbent resin with a pore structure designed to capture a…
A continuous fermentation process for making biologically derived butanol from a variety of sugar feedstocks is operating at what developers call “lab-pilot” scale, producing 2.5 liters per day. Engineering studies conducted by the research team forecast that it could be…
The Kleerband Flange Protectors provide a quick and easy way to apply protection and prevent corrosion. The devices are simple to install with a worm-gear connection, without the need for special tools. They feature a positive-loading relief-valve vent and plug…
The CSD Aseptic Series of hygienic centrifugal pumps is suitable for transferring liquids in food, beverage, pharmaceutical, ultra-pure and other process applications where hygiene is critical. The mechanical seal is internal and balanced, fitted with EN 12756/ISO 3069 seats protected…
The Type 6624 TwinPower rocker valve consumes no energy after the switching process. The standard rocker valve has two seats, which are opened and closed with electric current. They return to the original state if the current is turned off.…
Food manufacturers use the MaxxD Lab vacuum-processing unit to produce very small test batches. The unit processes liquid and semi-solid materials with an efficient homogenizing technology to obtain stable emulsions and suspensions, for instance mayonnaise, ketchup, sauces, dressings, spreads and…