United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the Air Force

University of Michigan

Josiah T Reams

Andrew J Guenthner

Joseph M Mabry

Anish Tuteja

Arun Kumar Kota

Gibum Kwon

Kevin Lamison

Timothy S Haddad

Kamran B Ghiassi

Levi Michael Joseph Moore

Jacob C Marcischak

The present invention relates to processes for making macromolecular networks, macromolecular networks made by such processes, and methods of using such macromolecular networks. Such process employs a low amount of amine compound as a reaction accelerant. The rates of chemical reaction are thereby easily controlled over several orders of magnitude, permitting efficient catalysis and control of reaction conditions needed to produce thermochemically stable macromolecular networks.

Process for making macromolecular networks

In various aspects, methods and apparatuses for liquid-liquid extraction are provided. In certain aspects, an emulsion can be formed by combining a feed stream, an extractant, and a surfactant. The feed stream comprises a plurality of distinct components including a first component to be removed therefrom. The feed stream may be selected from a group consisting of: a hydrocarbon feed stream and an azeotrope. Then, a portion of the first component is extracted from the feed stream (or emulsion) by contact with a superoleophobic and hygroscopic membrane filter that facilitates passage of the first component and extractant through the superoleophobic and hygroscopic membrane filter. A purified product is collected having the portion of the first component removed. Such methods are particularly useful for refining fuels and oils and separating azeotropes and other miscible component systems. Energy-efficient, continuous single unit operation apparatuses for conducting such separation techniques are also provided.

Apparatuses and methods for energy efficient separations including refining of fuel products

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Lancaster, CA, United States of America

Josiah T Reams