Ben W Kiff

Title: The Innovations of Ben W Kiff

Introduction

Ben W Kiff is a notable inventor based in South Charleston, West Virginia. He has made significant contributions to the field of chemical engineering, particularly in the production of ethanol and the oxidation of butane. With a total of 2 patents to his name, Kiff's work has had a meaningful impact on industrial processes.

Latest Patents

Kiff's latest patents include innovative methods for producing ethanol from acetic acid. This process involves esterifying acetic acid with an olefin that has at least four carbon atoms, followed by hydrogenation to produce ethanol and a higher alcohol. The higher alcohol is then dehydrated back to the original olefin, allowing for recycling in the process. Another significant patent focuses on the catalytic liquid-phase oxidation of butane. This method improves the continuous cobalt-catalyzed oxidation of butane to acetic acid by optimizing the amounts of iron, water, and succinic acid, while maintaining a minimum of about 0.1% cobalt acetate catalyst in the reaction medium.

Career Highlights

Kiff has built a successful career at Union Carbide Corporation, where he has applied his expertise in chemical processes. His work has contributed to advancements in the production of valuable chemicals and fuels, showcasing his commitment to innovation in the industry.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Kiff has collaborated with esteemed colleagues such as David James Schreck and John E Logsdon. These partnerships have fostered a collaborative environment that encourages the exchange of ideas and the development of new technologies.

Conclusion

Ben W Kiff's contributions to the field of chemical engineering through his patents and work at Union Carbide Corporation highlight his role as an influential inventor. His innovative approaches to ethanol production and butane oxidation continue to shape the industry.