Company Filing History:
3 out of 3 
2 out of 7 
1 out of 12 Years Active: 1997-2008
Title: Antti Hamunen: Innovator in Sterol Purification Processes
Introduction
Antti Hamunen is a notable inventor based in Raisio, Finland. He has made significant contributions to the field of sterol purification, holding a total of six patents. His work focuses on innovative methods for extracting and isolating valuable compounds from various sources.
Latest Patents
One of Hamunen's latest patents is a process for the purification of sterols from hydrocarbon extracts using evaporative fractionation. This invention describes a method for separating sterols from neutral substances, starting with the extraction of a hydrocarbon fraction. The hydrocarbon fraction may be washed with water, and the neutral substances are separated from it. The hydrocarbon fraction or the neutral substances undergo evaporation fractionation to obtain a sterol-rich fraction. The sterol-rich fraction is then dissolved in a solvent, allowing the sterols to be crystallized and separated from the solvent.
Another significant patent by Hamunen is for the isolation of sterols and/or wax alcohols from tall oil products. This process involves recovering sterols and/or wax alcohols from a crude tall oil source material. The method includes converting free acids in the source material to corresponding salts, removing any present water, and transesterifying the esterified sterols and/or wax alcohols. The transesterified material is then evaporatively fractionated to isolate the desired compounds.
Career Highlights
Antti Hamunen has worked with several companies throughout his career, including Raisio Chemicals Oy and Sterol Technologies Ltd. His experience in these organizations has contributed to his expertise in the field of sterol purification and extraction processes.
Collaborations
Some of Hamunen's notable coworkers include Kari Nurmi and Mika Anttila. Their collaboration has likely played a role in advancing the innovative processes developed by Hamunen.
Conclusion
Antti Hamunen is a distinguished inventor whose work in sterol purification has led to significant advancements in the field. His innovative patents reflect his commitment to improving extraction processes and contribute to the broader scientific community.