Oil/water/biocatalyst three phase separation process
US5772901A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 30, 1996 |
| Grant date | Jun 30, 1998 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 30, 2016 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB01D17/12
- WIPO fieldChemical engineering
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A method and an apparatus for separating a water/organic/solid emulsion, wherein the solid comprises particles having a length of about 50 .mu.m or less, are disclosed. The method comprises the steps of (1) directing the water/organic/solid emulsion from an emulsion source through a first hydrocyclone; (2) inverting the phase of the overflow emulsion from the first hydrocyclone; (3) directing the overflow emulsion through one or more subsequent hydrocyclones arranged in series; and (4) collecting the aqueous phase and the organic phase. The solid can be a biocatalyst, such as an intact bacterial, fungal or yeast cell. The organic phase is a liquid material substantially comprising carbon, which is substantially immiscible with water, such as petroleum. The apparatus of the present invention comprises a hydrocyclone series comprising two or more hydrocyclones connected in series, wherein the intake tube of the first hydrocyclone is connected by a line to an emulsion source; and a means for inverting the phase of the emulsion, interposed in the hydrocyclone series. The hydrocyclone series can comprise one or more de-oiling hydrocyclones, one or more dehydrating hydrocyclones or a com…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.