UPM-Kymmene has been granted a patent for a process that converts lignin into renewable products. The method involves mixing lignin with an aqueous solution, heating the mixture under specific conditions, and separating the resulting phases to produce a liquid suitable for chemicals, fuels, or feedstock. GlobalData’s report on UPM-Kymmene gives a 360-degree view of the company including its patenting strategy. Buy the report here.
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According to GlobalData’s company profile on UPM-Kymmene, Microscale biofuel reactors was a key innovation area identified from patents. UPM-Kymmene's grant share as of July 2024 was 48%. Grant share is based on the ratio of number of grants to total number of patents.
Process for converting lignin to renewable products
The patent US12054674B2 outlines a novel process for converting lignin into renewable products through a series of defined steps. The process begins with mixing lignin with an aqueous solution at atmospheric conditions or below 100°C for a duration of 1 to 60 minutes. This mixture is then heated to temperatures between 290°C and 350°C under high pressure (70 to 165 bar) to produce a first product mix. Following this, the mixture undergoes a separation process to isolate the aqueous phase, oil phase, and optionally gas and solids. The oil phase is subsequently heated with a solvent at temperatures ranging from 360°C to 450°C and pressures between 1 to 120 bar, which may involve the use of renewable hydrocarbons or oxygen-containing hydrocarbons.
Further claims detail specific parameters for the process, including the composition of the lignin feedstock, which can range from 2-50 wt% of the total mixture, and the pH levels of the aqueous phase, which should be below pH 9. The process also allows for the recirculation of fractions obtained during separation, enhancing efficiency. The oil phase produced is characterized by low oxygen content, making it suitable for renewable product applications. Additionally, the patent specifies that the lignin used can be kraft lignin with minimal impurities, and outlines various operational conditions such as heating times and temperature ranges for different steps, ensuring a comprehensive approach to lignin conversion into valuable renewable products.
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GlobalData Patent Analytics tracks bibliographic data, legal events data, point in time patent ownerships, and backward and forward citations from global patenting offices. Textual analysis and official patent classifications are used to group patents into key thematic areas and link them to specific companies across the world’s largest industries.
