Dena Roberts

Title: Dena Roberts: Innovator in Glycolic Acid Production

Introduction

Dena Roberts is a prominent inventor based in Durham, GB. She has made significant contributions to the field of chemical engineering, particularly in the production of glycolic acid. With a total of 2 patents to her name, her work has garnered attention for its innovative approaches and practical applications.

Latest Patents

Dena Roberts' latest patents focus on a novel process for the production of glycolic acid. This process involves reacting formaldehyde with carbon monoxide and water in a carbonylation reactor, utilizing a sulfur catalyst. The reactor operates under specific conditions to ensure the formation of glycolic acid. The process includes several steps, such as recovering a first product stream containing glycolic acid and impurities, passing it to an esterification reactor, and ultimately converting the alkylglycolate back to glycolic acid. This innovative method not only enhances the efficiency of glycolic acid production but also emphasizes the recycling of sulfur species within the process.

Career Highlights

Dena Roberts is currently employed at Johnson Matthey Davy Technologies Limited, where she continues to advance her research and development efforts. Her work has positioned her as a key player in the field of chemical production, particularly in sustainable practices.

Collaborations

Dena collaborates with notable colleagues, including David John Watson and John Swinney. These partnerships enhance her research capabilities and contribute to the innovative environment at her workplace.

Conclusion

Dena Roberts exemplifies the spirit of innovation in the chemical engineering sector. Her contributions to glycolic acid production reflect her commitment to advancing technology and sustainability.