Methods for sorting materials
US8610019B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 25, 2010 |
| Grant date | Dec 17, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 20, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB07C5/346
- WIPO fieldChemical engineering
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
Disclosed herein is the use of differences in x-ray linear absorption coefficients to process ore and remove elements with higher atomic number from elements with lower atomic numbers. Use of this dry method at the mine reduces pollution and transportation costs. One example of said invention is the ejection of inclusions with sulfur, silicates, mercury, arsenic and radioactive elements from coal. This reduces the amount and toxicity of coal ash. It also reduces air emissions and the energy required to clean stack gases from coal combustion. Removal of said ejected elements improves thermal efficiency and reduces the pollution and carbon footprint for electrical production.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.