Company Filing History:
10 out of 236 
3 out of 3 
2 out of 1,113 
Years Active: 1976-1985
Title: Innovating Gas Treatment and Methane Production: The Contributions of Donald L. Klass
Introduction: Donald L. Klass, an accomplished inventor from Barrington, IL, has made significant contributions to the field of gas treatment and anaerobic digestion through his 16 patents. His innovative approaches in membrane technology and organic pollution have the potential to transform the way gases are processed and resources are utilized.
Latest Patents: Klass's most recent inventions include a method for gas sweetening by membrane permeation and a process for enhancing methane production from anaerobic digestion of aquatic plants. The gas sweetening patent focuses on treating sour gas mixtures—comprising methane, hydrogen sulfide, and carbon dioxide—using a nonhomogeneous membrane that achieves a separation factor for hydrogen sulfide and carbon dioxide of at least 20. This process utilizes a specific flow rate factor to optimize the membrane's performance.
In his second latest patent, Klass developed a method to improve methane production from aquatic plant material grown in organically polluted water. By combining non-polluted and polluted plant material, the process achieves a synergistic yield of methane, leveraging the unique properties of the plants through anaerobic digestion. Additionally, he outlined a system for returning liquid effluent from the digester back to the growth pond to maintain the required organic pollution, thus creating a sustainable cycle.
Career Highlights: Klass has held pivotal positions in prestigious organizations, including the Institute of Gas Technology and United Gas Pipe Line Company. His experiences in these companies have contributed significantly to his understanding of gas technologies and enhanced his inventive capabilities.
Collaborations: Throughout his career, Klass has collaborated with other prominent individuals in the industry, including Sambhunath Ghosh and John R. Conrad. Their combined expertise has fostered advancements in research and application, reflecting the importance of teamwork in the field of innovation.
Conclusion: Donald L. Klass exemplifies the spirit of innovation through his impactful patents and career achievements. As a dedicated inventor, his contributions towards improved gas sweetening and methane production demonstrate not only technical proficiency but also a commitment to addressing environmental challenges. His work continues to inspire future advancements in the field.