Luther E Petty

Title: Luther E. Petty: Innovator in Sulfur Recovery Processes

Introduction

Luther E. Petty is a notable inventor based in Darien, Illinois, recognized for his contributions to sulfur recovery processes. With a total of 2 patents, Petty has made significant advancements in the field, particularly in improving the efficiency of Claus processes.

Latest Patents

Petty's latest patents include the "Low Temperature Claus Process with Water Removal" and "CBA for Claus Tail Gas Cleanup." The first patent focuses on enhancing the Claus conversion by operating under low temperature and low water concentration conditions. This innovative process effectively treats a feed stream containing sulfur compounds, converting all sulfur components to hydrogen sulfide, and subsequently removing water to create a Claus reaction mixture. The second patent presents an improved method for sulfur removal from the tail gas of a conventional Claus plant using a Cold Bed Adsorption process. This method ensures that the lead Claus reactor maintains high temperatures to promote hydrolysis of COS and CS₂, thereby maintaining ultra-high sulfur conversion levels on a commercial scale.

Career Highlights

Luther E. Petty has had a distinguished career, working with Standard Oil Company (Indiana). His expertise in sulfur recovery processes has positioned him as a key figure in the industry, contributing to advancements that enhance operational efficiency and environmental sustainability.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Petty has collaborated with esteemed colleagues, including Lorenz V. Kunkel and John W. Palm. These collaborations have fostered innovation and have been instrumental in the development of his patented processes.

Conclusion

Luther E. Petty's work in sulfur recovery processes exemplifies the impact of innovative thinking in the field of chemical engineering. His patents not only advance technology but also contribute to more sustainable industrial practices.