Company Filing History:
Years Active: 2011
Title: Luc Van Ginneken: Innovator in Biodiesel Production
Introduction
Luc Van Ginneken is a notable inventor based in Balen, Belgium. He has made significant contributions to the field of biodiesel production, holding 2 patents that focus on innovative methods for creating fatty acid esters and biodiesel.
Latest Patents
One of his latest patents is a method for preparing fatty acid esters with alcohol recycling. This method produces fatty acid esters by transesterification of fats and oils using alcohol at high pressure and temperature. Unreacted alcohol is separated inline from the reaction mixture and continuously recycled into the transesterification process. The separation is achieved by obtaining a vapor phase and higher density phases of the reaction mixture, concentrating the alcohol in the vapor phase.
Another significant patent is for producing biodiesel using an immobilized catalyst. This method produces a fatty acid alkyl ester by transesterification of fat or oil and alcohol. The reaction is catalyzed by a heterogeneous catalyst immobilized in a tubular reactor at temperatures between 260 and 420°C and at pressures higher than 5 bar. A mixture of fat or oil and alcohol is led in a continuous flow through the tubular reactor. The catalyst is preferably a metal oxide or a metal carbonate, including an alkaline earth metal. This innovative approach allows the reaction to take place at reduced residence and contact times compared to prior art.
Career Highlights
Luc Van Ginneken has worked with the Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO), where he has contributed to various research projects focused on sustainable energy solutions. His work has been instrumental in advancing the technology behind biodiesel production.
Collaborations
Some of his notable coworkers include Kathy Elst and Jo Sijben, who have collaborated with him on various projects within the field of biodiesel and sustainable energy.
Conclusion
Luc Van Ginneken's innovative methods in biodiesel production highlight his significant contributions to the field. His patents reflect a commitment to advancing sustainable energy technologies, making him a key figure in the industry.