Charles B Benham

Title: Innovations of Charles B Benham in Iron Catalysis

Introduction

Charles B Benham, based in Arvada, Colorado, is an accomplished inventor with a remarkable portfolio of 23 patents. His innovative work primarily focuses on developing advanced methods for catalysts used in slurry reactors, specifically emphasizing iron-based catalysts.

Latest Patents

Among his notable recent patents, Benham has designed methods to enhance the performance of precipitated unsupported iron catalysts. One method involves preparing a catalyst that incorporates copper and potassium, then applying a structural promoter before drying and calcining the mixture. Additionally, he has developed a detailed procedure for producing an iron catalyst, which includes precipitating a catalyst precursor from various iron phases, adding a promoter, and subjecting the final product to critical drying and calcining steps.

Another significant innovation is the method for co-precipitating iron, copper, magnesium, and aluminum to yield a strengthened iron catalyst precursor. This process also involves washing, alkalizing, and drying the precipitate, followed by optional calcining and treatment with carbon monoxide. Furthermore, Benham has introduced smart techniques for regenerating an iron-based Fischer-Tropsch catalyst via solvent extraction, which removes contaminants and allows for controlled oxidation and reactivation of the catalyst.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Charles B Benham has been associated with reputable companies in the energy sector, such as Rentech, Inc. and GTL Energy, Ltd. His contributions in these organizations have significantly impacted the development of catalysis technologies, enhancing their efficiency and effectiveness.

Collaborations

Benham has collaborated with esteemed professionals within the field, including Mark S Bohn and Dennis L Yakobson. These collaborations have enriched his work and broadened the scope of his innovative projects, leading to advancements in catalysis and chemical processes.

Conclusion

Charles B Benham's innovative contributions to catalyst technology highlight his importance as an inventor in the field of chemical engineering. His advancements in the preparation and regeneration of iron catalysts not only demonstrate his expertise but also pave the way for improved industrial applications.