Herbert D Riegel

Title: Herbert D. Riegel: Innovator in Hydrogenation Technologies

Introduction

Herbert D. Riegel is a distinguished inventor based in Maplewood, NJ, who has made significant contributions to the field of chemical engineering. With 20 patents to his name, Riegel's work primarily focuses on catalysts and processes for the hydrogenation of unsaturated hydrocarbons, a vital area in the petroleum industry.

Latest Patents

Among his latest innovations, Riegel has developed a novel catalyst and process for the hydrogenation of dienes and acetylene impurities in olefin feeds, particularly propylene. This selective hydrogenation, achieved in a single stage, employs a catalyst comprising palladium supported on alumina, specifically crystalline alpha alumina. The catalyst features an average pore radius of 200-2000 Å, with at least 80% of the pores falling within the range of 100 to 3000 Å. The surface acidity of the catalyst varies from 0.002 to 0.05 millimole of pyridine absorbed per gram. Additionally, the active palladium surface area ranges from 20 to 200 m²/g, with the palladium present in crystalline form averaging a size of at least 25 Å.

Career Highlights

Riegel has enjoyed a fruitful career, having been associated with reputable organizations such as The Lummus Company and the Beijing Research Institute of Chemical Industry. His extensive knowledge and expertise in catalyst development and hydrogenation processes have established him as a pioneer in this specialized field.

Collaborations

During his impressive career, Riegel has collaborated with notable coworkers, including Morgan C. Sze and Harvey D. Schindler. These partnerships have allowed for the exchange of ideas and the advancement of innovative technologies within the chemical engineering domain.

Conclusion

Herbert D. Riegel stands out as a significant contributor to advancements in hydrogenation technologies. His patented inventions continue to play a crucial role in refining processes that enhance the efficiency of the petroleum industry. As he progresses in his career, Riegel's innovative approaches promise to lead to further developments that might shape the future of chemical engineering.