Jan R Hegeman

Title: The Innovations of Jan R. Hegeman

Introduction

Jan R. Hegeman is a notable inventor based in Seattle, Washington, recognized for his innovative contributions to the field of oil recovery. With a total of three patents to his name, Hegeman’s work primarily addresses environmental challenges posed by hydrocarbon spills on water bodies. His latest inventions reflect a blend of creativity and practicality, leading to significant advancements in oil spill remediation.

Latest Patents

Hegeman's latest patents include “Sack-based processes for recovering oil floating on water” and “Systems for ameliorating aqueous hydrocarbon spills.”

The first patent involves the development of water- and oil-porous containers or sacks manufactured from mesh sheets that are affixed and stiffened around their edges. These sacks can house tubular bodies made of an oil-entrapping polymer, designed to maximize the absorption of oil from water surfaces. When deployed in areas afflicted by oil spills, these sacks are capable of efficiently adsorbing oil while minimizing gel blocking, allowing for easier collection and potential recycling of the harvested oil.

His second patent introduces an oil-sorbent composition that binds combinations of styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) and ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM). This innovation can be shaped into solid bodies, such as extended cylinders, optimized for absorbing oil from marine environments. The composition highlights a thoughtful approach to addressing the effects of hydrocarbon spills, showcasing the chemistry's role in environmental conservation.

Career Highlights

Jan R. Hegeman is currently affiliated with Abtech Industries, Inc., where he applies his expertise in material science and environmental technology. His work is crucial in understanding the operational challenges of oil spill recovery and developing solutions that are both effective and sustainable.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Hegeman has collaborated with notable industry colleagues, including Glenn R. Rink and Robert L. Rosania. These partnerships have played an instrumental role in refining his inventions and enhancing their practical applications in real-world scenarios.

Conclusion

Jan R. Hegeman's contributions in the realm of environmental innovations, particularly regarding oil spill recovery, demonstrate a profound commitment to addressing significant ecological issues. With his inventive prowess and collaborative efforts, Hegeman continues to make strides in the development of efficient solutions that benefit both natural ecosystems and society at large.