A process for manufacturing fine particles of titanium dioxide that exhibits a high level of photocatalytic activity has been developed by Showa Titanium Co., a subsidiary of Showa Denko K.K. (SDK, Tokyo; ww.sdk.co.jp). The product has been developed in collaboration…
Lately there has been much renewed interest in fermentative production of n-butanol from renewable biomass as an industrial solvent and liquid fuel superior to ethanol that could be used as a substitute for gasoline. An improved butanol production through the…
A demonstration plant for the production of acetic acid from the carbon dioxide in industrial offgases will be built at an operating plant of Petronas (Kuala Lumpur; www.petronas.com.my), Malaysia’s national oil company, under an agreement with LanzaTech (Roselle, Ill.; www.lanzatech.com),…
The volume of heavy, sour crude oil processed by North American refineries is steadily increasing, and along with it a commensurate demand for hydrogen to upgrade that oil. A steam-reforming process that would allow refiners to produce their own H2…
Newlight Technologies (Irvine, Calif.; www.newlight.com) has launched commercial production of a polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) thermoplastic made from air and greenhouse gases, such as methane, that can be manufactured less expensively than conventional petroleum-derived alternatives, using a novel high-efficiency biocatalyst and bioreactor…
One of the most significant limitations on the operation of dynamic compressors (axial and centrifugal compressors) is the low-flow limit known as “surge”. A sudden valve closing, such as for emergency shutdowns or for a suction/discharge valve, presents significant challenges…
The prices of low-voltage variable frequency drives (VFDs) have declined substantially since they were introduced, while the cost of power has increased. Normal project economics will now justify these VFDs — which go up to 375 kW (500 hp) or…
Many CPI applications require the injection of chemicals, such as corrosion inhibitors, precipitation inhibitors, oxygen scavengers and countless others, into the process during operation. Follow these tips to design and operate a system that ensures accurate delivery of performance chemicals,…
The new V Series modulating ball valve is designed for controlling pressure, temperature flow and level. The valve body is available in carbon or stainless steel with NPT, Socket Weld, Tri-Clamp and 150# or 300# flanged end connections. Sizes are…
The new high-performance ultraviolet (UV) absorber Hostavin 3330 disp. XP enhances the durability and UV protection of waterborne coatings, enabling them to reach the performance of conventional solvent-borne systems, says the producer. Hostavin 3330 disp. XP has an active UV…