Chemical Processing in High-Pressure Aqueous Environments. 5. New Processing Concepts

Abstract

A combination of fundamental and applied process research at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory resulted in the development of several new processing concepts. These concepts have in common the use of high-temperature pressurized water as a unique reaction medium for carrying out chemical reactions. Typical operating conditions of these processes range from 300 to 360 °C and have pressures to above 200 bar. Investigation of the process chemistry and engineering for these new processing concepts required the development and scale-up of several high-pressure reactor systems which are described. Several new processes involving catalysts and the distinctive properties of pressurized water were patented as part of this effort. These processes, which are at various stages of development, address a broad mix of energy and environmentally related problems. Chemical processing in a high-temperature liquid water environment remains a relatively untapped area for commercial application.