Company Filing History:
Years Active: 2014
Title: Melchoir Meilchen: Innovator in Acetic Anhydride Processes
Introduction
Melchoir Meilchen is a notable inventor based in Houston, TX, specializing in processes related to acetic anhydride. He holds 2 patents that contribute significantly to the field of chemical engineering. His work focuses on improving the efficiency and purity of acetic anhydride production.
Latest Patents
Meilchen's latest patents include innovative processes for purifying acetic anhydride and preparing acetic anhydride. The purification process involves feeding a liquid crude acetic anhydride stream directly to a distillation column. This method separates the stream to produce a light ends stream, a sidedraw, and a residue stream, with the sidedraw yielding substantially pure acetic anhydride product. The distillation column operates at a pressure less than 101 kPa, resulting in a product that comprises greater than 98 wt. % acetic anhydride, a permanganate time of greater than 10 minutes, and an APHA color of less than 10.
In his process for preparing acetic anhydride, Meilchen carbonylates methanol and/or a methanol derivative with carbon monoxide to form acetic acid. He then contacts ketene with the acetic acid to create a crude acetic anhydride product stream. The process also includes directing a portion of the vent stream to a liquid ring vacuum compressor, where unreacted ketene interacts with a ring seal fluid comprising acetic acid to form supplemental acetic anhydride.
Career Highlights
Melchoir Meilchen is currently employed at Celanese International Corporation, where he applies his expertise in chemical processes. His contributions to the company have been instrumental in advancing their production techniques and enhancing product quality.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Meilchen has collaborated with notable coworkers, including R Jay Warner and Nathan Kirk Powell. These partnerships have fostered innovation and development in their respective fields.
Conclusion
Melchoir Meilchen's work in the field of acetic anhydride processes showcases his commitment to innovation and efficiency. His patents reflect a deep understanding of chemical engineering principles and contribute to advancements in the industry.