Purify p-xylene without the heat
Current commercial technologies for separating and purifying p-xylene — an important precursor for polyesters and plastics — from hydrocarbon mixtures involve phase-change techniques that require large amounts of thermal energy. Recently, a research team from Georgia Institute of Technology (Ga. Tech; Atlanta.; www.gatech.edu) and Exxon Mobil Corp. (Irving, Tex.; www.exxonmobil.com) demonstrated the separation of p-xylene at room temperature. » |
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This ceramic membrane converts natural gas to liquid hydrocarbons
Converting natural gas to liquid hydrocarbons can theoretically be accomplished at high temperatures with the help of zeolite catalysts, but the reaction is hindered by two major factors. The conversion to products is thermodynamically limited, and coke formation on the zeolite surface rapidly decreases catalyst activity. Now, technology involving a ceramic-membrane reactor offers a pathway around these obstacles. » |
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Catalytic process converts sorted waste into aromatic compounds
The rising cost of landfilling trash creates a strong incentive to utilize the waste for saleable products. A recently piloted process is an example: the process can convert municipal solid waste (MSW) into a narrow range of valuable aromatic compounds. It depends on a two-component catalyst capable of first generating alcohols from synthesis gas (syngas). » |
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This new, dual-pressure nitric-acid process is commercially available
Last month, Weatherly Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of KBR Inc. (Houston; www.kbr.com) introduced its new dual-pressure nitric acid (DPNA) technology, which enables economically viable production of HNO3 in large scale [over 1,000 metric tons per day (m.t./d)], as part of large fertilizer-production complexes. The technology was launched at the 2016 AN-NA (Ammonium Nitrate – Nitric Acid) conference. » |
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Engineering bacteria to make muconic acid
Researchers at the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR; Singapore; www.a-star.edu.sg), led by Sudhakar Jonnalagadda, have provided another step toward replacing petrochemicals with renewable resources in the manufacture of synthetic fibers and plastics. The team has genetically modified Escherichia coli bacteria to produce muconic acid from glucose. » |
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Control biofouling with I2-vapor disinfection
A patented technology for infusing bubbles of elemental iodine into fluid or air can reduce microbial counts and potentially eliminate surface biofilms. Originally developed to remove biofilms from water lines in the dental industry, the technology is being used as a method for preventing biofouling on heat-exchanger surfaces. » |
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| from our bookstore |
| Managing Vapor and Particulate Emissions Guidebook |
| The collection of tutorial-style engineering articles in this volume cover a wide array of topics related to monitoring and managing vapor and particulate emissions during chemical process operations. You will be provided with tips for reducing or eliminating fugitive emissions from tanks, pipes and process equipment. The guidebook also focuses on the proper operation and management of burners, combustion units and flares to minimize their environmental impact. Several articles share best practices for reducing the risk of dust explosions — a risk that is ever-present in bulk-solids-processing operations handling fine powders, as well as providing related safety tips to reduce hazards associated with vapor emissions. [more] |
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