This inventor holds 133 USPTO granted patents and 14 published patent applications and 7 EPO patents, primarily in Heavy Metal Removal (CPC class C07C2-700). Top assignees: Chevron U.s.a. Inc., Chevron Research Company, Claire Technologies, LLC. Active years: 1979-2025.
Data source: USPTO (United States Patent and Trademark Office) public patent records. Weekly synchronization. How IDiyas builds this profile
Inventors with similar research interests:
Location History:
- Tiburon, CA (US) (1979 - 1983)
- Sonoma, CA (US) (2014)
- Penngrove, CA (US) (2011 - 2015)
- Petaluma, CA (US) (1984 - 2023)
Company Filing History:
118 out of 2,555 
7 out of 1,860 
2 out of 6 
Years Active: 1979-2025
Areas of Expertise:
Title: Innovator Profile: Dennis John O'Rear
Introduction:
Meet Dennis John O'Rear, a prolific inventor hailing from Petaluma, CA. With an impressive 125 patents to his name, O'Rear has made significant contributions to the field of removing heavy metals from fluids, particularly crude oil. Let's delve into his latest patents, career highlights, and noteworthy collaborations.
Latest Patents:
O'Rear's recent patents showcase his expertise in developing methods for removing mercury from crude oil and purifying fluids contaminated with heavy metals. One such invention is the "Method for removing mercury from crude oil." This patented method involves recovering mercury from crude oil using an alkaline ammonium sulfide contacting solution. The solution converts soluble mercury complexes into particulate mercury, which can then be filtered and recovered. O'Rear's method offers a valuable solution for reducing mercury contamination while recycling key components of the contacting solution.
Additionally, O'Rear has patented a "Process, method, and system for removing heavy metals from fluids." This invention focuses on removing particulate mercury, in the form of metacinnabar, from crude oil. By subjecting the crude oil to controlled thermal treatment, O'Rear's method converts the mercury into its elemental form. The elemental mercury is subsequently removed either by direct adsorption onto a support or by stripping the crude oil with a gas. This efficient and versatile approach provides an effective means of eliminating heavy metal contaminants from various fluids.
Career Highlights:
Throughout his career, O'Rear has made remarkable contributions to the field of heavy metal removal technology. His inventions have not only addressed the detrimental effects of mercury contamination in crude oil but also demonstrated his commitment to sustainable practices within the industry. O'Rear's innovations bridge the gap between environmental responsibility and efficient industrial processes.
Collaborations:
O'Rear's expertise has been valued in his collaborations with prominent companies such as Chevron U.S.A. Inc. His association with Chevron U.S.A. Inc. highlights his contributions to the oil and gas sector, where his inventions play a crucial role in ensuring cleaner, mercury-free oil production. Working alongside talented colleagues like Russell Evan Cooper and Gunther Hans Dieckmann has fostered an environment of innovation and knowledge exchange, enhancing the impact of his discoveries.
Conclusion:
Dennis John O'Rear's extensive patent portfolio and groundbreaking innovations in removing heavy metals from fluids, particularly crude oil, have made a significant impact in the industry. His patented methods offer environmentally responsible solutions for reducing mercury contamination and recycling essential components. O'Rear's collaborations with industry-leading companies underscore his reputation as a pioneering inventor dedicated to advancing sustainable practices. His contributions continue to shape the future of heavy metal removal technology, fostering a cleaner and more efficient oil and gas industry.
Data source: USPTO (United States Patent and Trademark Office) public patent records. Weekly synchronization. How IDiyas builds this profile