Ethanol production from biological wastes
US7687250B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 2, 2007 |
| Grant date | Mar 30, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 10, 2028 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02W10/20
- WIPO fieldBiotechnology
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
The invention provides methods, apparatuses, and kits for producing ethanol and other alcohols. The methods involve fermenting organic material in a fermentation mixture to a biogas comprising methane; converting at least a portion of the biogas to synthesis gas comprising CO and H2; and contacting at least a portion of the synthesis gas with a catalyst to produce alcohol. In some embodiments, a microorganism that reduces ferric iron to ferrous iron is included in the fermentation mixture to enhance the efficiency of the fermentation and the yield of alcohol. The invention also provides a method of producing alcohol involving fermenting organic material to a biogas comprising methane; removing sulfhydryls from the biogas; converting at least a portion of the biogas to synthesis gas comprising CO and H2; contacting at least a portion of the synthesis gas with a sulfur-free catalyst to produce a substantially sulfur-free alcohol; and purifying the alcohol wherein the purified alcohol is substantially sulfur-free and comprises less than 5% methanol and at least 70% C2+ alcohols by weight.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.