Continuous neat polymerization and ambient grinding methods of polyolefin drag reducing agents
US7119132B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 27, 2003 |
| Grant date | Oct 10, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 11, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T137/0391
- WIPO fieldMacromolecular chemistry, polymers
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A process for continuously producing a polymer drag reducing agent (DRA) is described. The process concerns mixing a monomer and a catalyst in at least one continuously stirred tank reactor (CSTR) to form a mixture. The mixture is continuously injected into a volume continuously formed by a thermoplastic material, such as polyethylene. The thermoplastic material is periodically sealed off to form a temporary container or bag. The monomer is permitted to polymerize in the temporary container to form polymer. In one non-limiting embodiment, the polymerization in the bag takes place within an inert, circulating fluid that accelerates heat transfer. The polymer and the temporary container are then ground together, preferably at non-cryogenic temperatures, to produce a particulate polymer drag reducing agent. In one preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the grinding or pulverizing occurs in the presence of at least one solid organic grinding aid. Finally, the particulate polymer drag reducing agent may be combined with a dispersing fluid.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.