Typically, the production of fuel-grade chemicals, such as butanol, from biomass fermentation processes involves low-yield batch processes and high energy costs. Now, researchers from Imperial College London (ICL; www.imperial.ac.uk), in partnership with bp plc (London; www.bp.com), have demonstrated a new…
PMT Model 40 pneumatic pressure controllers (photo) are available in standard control modes of 100% proportional, 200% proportional, 200% proportional plus reset, 75% proportional (positioner only), or 300% PID (proportional-integral-derivative). These options make the controllers versatile enough to fit into…
The new FLIR VS290-32 (photo) is said to be an industry-first videoscope that combines thermal imaging and a visible camera designed for safer and more efficient inspections of hard-to-reach areas. The VS290-32 is the company’s first industrial-grade, electrical safety-rated, flexible…
This company’s chromium-free corrosion-inhibiting technology, Intelli-ion, utilizes novel active ingredients, which are attached onto a smart micro-reservoir system and react “on demand” to corrosive activity. Unlike zinc phosphate, which causes harmful algal blooms through leaching, the Intelli-ion product range does…
Determining moisture levels in solid materials is important for product quality, handling properties and other considerations. Provided here is an overview of direct and indirect methods for measuring moisture in solids Water is ubiquitous and is unusually reactive because of…
The VaultSafe product line (photo) is designed to protect potable water systems from contaminated floodwaters, freezing temperatures and intentional harmful contamination. The VaultSafe family consists of the FloodSafe inflow preventer, the FrostSafe air damper and the VentSafe vent-pipe security cage.…
This company’s Continuous Hybrid Reactor (CHR; photo) has been designed to facilitate safe, efficient, repeatable chemical reactions. The CHR features a proprietary design that develops a deep vacuum to promote a high level of control over heat-transfer rate, residence time,…
Superalloys, also known as high-performance alloys, are considered as materials of construction for process equipment in applications involving high temperatures, highly corrosive environments and those requiring high strength properties. Many commonly used superalloys in the chemical process industries (CPI) use…
There are many regulations surrounding the production of waste at manufacturing facilities. By approaching regulatory practices in a proactive manner, sites can ensure personnel and environmental safety, as well as continuous compliance When it comes to handling hazardous waste in…
This column is based on “Dimethyl Ether Production from Natural Gas and CO2 (Direct Method) – Cost Analysis,” a report published by Intratec. It can be found at: www.intratec.us/analysis/dimethyl-ether-production-cost. Dimethyl ether (DME) is the simplest aliphatic ether, containing only two…