Thomas Hofmann

Title: Thomas Hofmann and His Contributions to Membrane Technology.

Introduction

Thomas Hofmann is an inventor based in Sunnyvale, California, whose work includes innovations in gas-separation membrane technology. He is associated with Membrane Technology and Research, Inc. His listed portfolio includes 2 patents.

Latest Patents

Hofmann’s listed patents address spiral-wound membrane modules and processes for separating gases and controlling vapor emissions.

“Gas separation membrane module and process” describes a spiral-wound module and gas-separation process designed to provide at least partial counter-current flow between feed and permeate streams without requiring a permeate sweep. Barriers or baffles placed in the feed channel can help create this flow pattern. Related module designs and processes may also be used for pervaporation.

“Vapor recovery process using baffled membrane module” concerns controlling vapor emissions with a spiral-wound membrane module that has one or more feed-side baffles in its feed channel. The method can be used to manage emissions from volatile liquids and is particularly applicable to fuel vapors released during fuel-transfer operations.

Career Highlights

The patent descriptions reflect Hofmann’s work on membrane configurations that guide gas flow and support vapor recovery. His inventions apply membrane separation principles to industrial processes, including fuel-transfer operations.

Collaborations

Hofmann’s listed coworkers include Matthias Wessling and Richard W. Baker. The provided information does not specify the nature or scope of their collaborations.

Conclusion

Thomas Hofmann’s listed inventions focus on baffled, spiral-wound membrane modules for gas separation and vapor-emission control, highlighting practical applications of membrane technology.