Michael E Olbrich

Title: The Innovative Contributions of Michael E. Olbrich

Introduction

Michael E. Olbrich is a notable inventor based in Naperville, IL, with a significant portfolio of seven patents. His work primarily focuses on advancements in hydrocarbon treatment and the production of methyl-tertiary ethers. Olbrich's innovative methods have contributed to the efficiency and effectiveness of petroleum refining processes.

Latest Patents

One of Olbrich's latest patents involves the treatment of hydrocarbons. This method and apparatus describe a process where a caustic-treated hydrocarbon feed mixture, containing water and sulfur compounds, is separated into two streams. The first stream is treated with an adsorbent material, resulting in a reactor feed stream with reduced contaminant concentrations. This stream is then processed in the presence of hydrogen and an isomerization catalyst to produce an isomerate product. Another significant patent focuses on methyl-tertiary ether production. This method integrates several petroleum refining processes to efficiently produce tertiary alkyl ether compounds from a feed stream of both saturated and unsaturated hydrocarbons. A key step in this process is the simultaneous catalytic conversion of isoparaffins to isoolefins and n-olefins to n-paraffins in a combination hydrogenation/dehydrogenation reactor. The resulting isoolefin is then reacted with a primary alcohol to create the desired tertiary alkyl ether compound.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Olbrich has worked with prominent companies, including Phillips Petroleum Company and Dwight L. McKay. His experience in these organizations has allowed him to refine his skills and contribute to significant advancements in the field of petroleum refining.

Collaborations

Some of Olbrich's notable coworkers include Dwight L. McKay and Rebecca L. Jones. Their collaborative efforts have further enhanced the innovative processes developed by Olbrich.

Conclusion

Michael E. Olbrich's contributions to the field of hydrocarbon treatment and ether production demonstrate his commitment to innovation in petroleum refining. His patents reflect a deep understanding of chemical processes and a dedication to improving efficiency in the industry.