Pressure valve processing

Abstract

In the valve assembly, the inner wall of the valve body includes at least one opening for introducing liquid under pressure below the slurry or liquid outlet from the tube or pipe. The valve assembly is particularly useful for maintaining a semi-continuous or continuous pressurized flow of biomass from the extruder and for extending the reaction zone downstream from the extruder. The advantage of having an extended reaction zone is that it allows for complete processing of the material without causing additional wear on the extruder and also allows for upstream processing of the material in the tube or pipe.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross-reference

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 087,077, filed Oct. 2, 2020, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 146,608, filed Feb. 6, 2021, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 153,740, filed Feb. 25, 202, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Background Art

[0002] 【0^02】In many industrial processes, valves are used to control the flow of materials. Inside a relief valve is a plug that blocks or reduces the outlet of a material source when the valve is pressurized. When the pressure behind the plug is released, the plug is pushed back by the force of the pressure from this outlet. This makes it possible to open the valve until the pressure behind the plug exceeds the force of the outlet. If the valve is coupled to an actuator that operates in response to the outlet, more precise continuous movement is possible than when using only manually operated or spring-operated valves.

[0003]

[0003] When moving materials under pressure, it can be difficult to control the pressure inside the container in which the materials are transported. This is difficult for the continuous or semi-continuous flow of a material slurry that moves in one direction in a critical operating state due to the processing of the medium. To maintain a constant pressure and velocity of the moving material, the valve must be designed to allow a specific velocity while operating to keep the pressure inside the pipe or barrel constant. This is particularly true for particulate materials such as biomass moving in a liquid under high pressure, where the valve is involved in further processing and the material flow rushes in rapidly. Such harsh operating conditions can induce premature failures and leaks in the valve assembly, resulting in ejection and excessive wear. Furthermore, slurry particles can be trapped in the valve sealing cycle, resulting in performance degradation of the valve assembly. In general, pressure relief valves are not designed to handle such operations. [Overview of the Initiative] [Means for solving the problem]

[0004]

[0004] In one embodiment, a system for pre-treating biomass is provided herein, comprising: an extruder having one or more screws, the action of one or more screws forming an internal plug of biomass, thereby forming the upstream end of a pressurized reaction section for pre-treating biomass; and a valve assembly attached to the outlet end of the extruder, forming the downstream end of the reaction section and adding liquid to the reaction section.

[0005]

[0005] In another embodiment, a system for pre-treating biomass is provided herein, comprising: an extruder including one or more screws, the action of one or more screws forming an internal plug of biomass, thereby forming an upstream end of a pressurized reaction section for pre-treating biomass; and a valve assembly attached to the outlet end of the extruder, the valve assembly comprising a valve body including a large circular portion, an intermediate conical portion, and a small circular collar including one or more nozzles for liquid injection, the valve body having a chamber formed inside the valve body connecting the inlet end and outlet end of the valve body, the inner diameter of the small circular collar being smaller than the large circular portion; a valve needle that is axially displaceable within the chamber of the valve body; and a housing attached to the outlet end of the valve body, which seals the valve needle when the valve needle is detached from the valve body.

[0006]

[0006] In some embodiments, the biomass is selected from the group consisting of silage, agricultural residues, corn stalks and leaves, bagasse, sorghum, nuts, nut shells, coconut shells, distillation-dried soluble materials, distillation-dried grains, condensed distillation-soluble materials, distillation-moist grains, distillation-dried grains containing soluble materials, woody materials, sawdust, wood chips, wood pellets, wood residues, mill scrap, municipal waste, waste paper, recycled toilet paper, garden trimmings, as well as energy crops such as poplar, willow, switchgrass, alfalfa, and oxgrass, non-woody plant materials, cellulosic materials, lignocellulose materials, hemicellulose materials, carbohydrates, corn, sugarcane, grasses, high-biomass sorghum, bamboo, corn cobs, as well as husks and seeds. In some embodiments, the biomass is processed in the reaction section for 60, 55, 50, 45, 40, 35, 30, 25, 20, 19, 18, 17, 16, 15, 14, 13, 12, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, or less than 1 second. In some embodiments, the temperature in the reaction section rises to 50-500°C, 75-400°C, 100-350°C, 150-300°C, 200-250°C, or 150-300°C, and the pressure in the reaction section is 3.516-70.31 kgf / cm². 2 (50~1000PSI), 7.031~52.74kgf / cm 2 (100~750PSI), 14.06~42.19kgf / cm 2 (200~600PSI), 21.09~35.16kgf / cm 2 (300-500 PSI), or 24.61-31.64 kgf / cm² 2 The temperature rises to (350-450 PSI). In some embodiments, the system further comprises means for supplying vapor and one or more chemicals to the reaction section. In some embodiments, one or more chemicals include an acid. In some embodiments, the acid is sulfuric acid.

[0007]

[0007] In some embodiments, the valve assembly comprises a valve body including a large circular portion, an intermediate conical portion, and a small circular collar including one or more nozzles for liquid injection, wherein a chamber is formed within the valve body connecting the injection and discharge ends of the valve body, the inner diameter of the small circular collar being smaller than that of the large circular portion, a valve needle that is axially displaceable within the chamber of the valve body, and a housing attached to the discharge end of the valve body that seals the valve needle when the valve needle is detached from the valve body. In some embodiments, the housing includes a removable discharge ring. In some embodiments, the discharge ring is tapered. In some embodiments, the valve body includes an annular ring. In some embodiments, the annular ring is removable. In some embodiments, when the valve needle is closed on the valve body, an annular space is formed between the valve body and the valve needle in the chamber. In some embodiments, the nozzle for liquid injection delivers water into the chamber. In some embodiments, the nozzle for liquid injection delivers a liquid other than water into the chamber. In some embodiments, the liquid is selected from the group consisting of acids, bases, alcohols, ketones, aldehydes, solvents, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the inner diameter of the housing at the end of the housing that abuts the valve body is at least 7% larger than the inner diameter of the valve body at its discharge end. In some embodiments, the inner diameter of the housing at the end of the housing that abuts the valve body is about 7% larger than the inner diameter of the valve body at its discharge end. In some embodiments, the valve needle has a conical shape with a broad end opposite the tip of the cone. In some embodiments, the cone tapers in the range of 45 to 75 degrees. In some embodiments, the cone tapers at about 45 degrees. In some embodiments, the diameter of the broad end of the valve needle is at least 4% larger than the inner diameter of the valve body at its discharge end. In some embodiments, the diameter of the broad end of the valve needle is about 4% larger than the inner diameter of the valve body at its discharge end. In some embodiments, the extruder is a twin-screw extruder. In some embodiments, the extruder has ports for adding steam and / or acid.

[0008] In another aspect, a method for pretreating biomass by the system disclosed herein is provided herein.

[0009] In another aspect, a method for pretreating biomass, comprising: transporting biomass from a feed section of an extruder to a reaction section of the extruder by the extruder, wherein the feed section and the reaction section are separated by a biomass plug formed upstream from the reaction section downstream of the input section; adding steam and / or chemicals to the biomass in the reaction section to partially process the biomass; transporting the partially processed biomass into a valve assembly attached to an outflow end of the extruder, processing the partially processed biomass within the valve assembly to thereby produce pretreated biomass; and discharging the pretreated biomass by the valve assembly, is provided herein.

[0010] In some embodiments of this method, the biomass is transported by the extruder at the same rate at which the partially processed biomass is transported by the valve assembly. In some embodiments, the temperature in the reaction section is increased to 50 - 500 °C, 75 - 400 °C, 100 - 350 °C, 150 - 300 °C, 200 - 250 °C, or 150 - 300 °C, and the pressure in the reaction section is 3.516 - 70.31 kgf / cm 2 (50 - 1000 PSI), 7.031 - 52.74 kgf / cm 2 (100 - 750 PSI), 14.06 - 42.19 kgf / cm 2 (200 - 600 PSI), 21.09 - 35.16 kgf / cm 2 (300 - 500 PSI), or 24.61 - 31.64 kgf / cm 2The biomass rises to (350-450 PSI). In some embodiments, the biomass is selected from the group consisting of silage, agricultural residues, maize stalks and leaves, bagasse, sorghum, nuts, nut shells, coconut shells, distillation-dried soluble materials, distillation-dried grains, condensed distillation-soluble materials, distillation-moist grains, distillation-dried grains containing soluble materials, woody materials, sawdust, wood chips, wood pellets, wood residues, mill scrap, municipal waste, waste paper, recycled toilet paper, garden trimmings, as well as energy crops such as poplar, willow, switchgrass, alfalfa, and oxgrass, non-woody plant materials, cellulosic materials, lignocellulose materials, hemicellulose materials, carbohydrates, maize, sugarcane, grasses, high biomass sorghum, bamboo, maize cobs, as well as husks and seeds. In some embodiments, the biomass is processed in the reaction interval for 60, 55, 50, 45, 40, 35, 30, 25, 20, 19, 18, 17, 16, 15, 14, 13, 12, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, or less than 1 second. In some embodiments, the chemical is selected from the group consisting of acids, bases, alcohols, ketones, aldehydes, solvents, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the extruder includes one or more screws. In some embodiments, the extruder includes two screws.

[0011]

[0011] In another embodiment, a method for pre-treating biomass is provided herein, comprising the steps of: transporting biomass from a feed section of an extruder to a reaction section of an extruder by an extruder, wherein the feed section and the reaction section are separated by a biomass plug formed downstream of the feed section and upstream of the reaction section; partially treating the biomass by adding steam and / or chemicals to the biomass in the reaction section; transporting the partially treated biomass to an extension chamber attached to the outlet end of the extruder; and treating the partially treated biomass in the extension chamber to produce pre-treated biomass.

[0012]

[0012] In some embodiments, the method further includes the step of adding an acid at the downstream end of the extruder as the biomass exits the extruder. In some embodiments, the extension chamber is formed by a tube. In some embodiments, the extension chamber is formed by a container. In some embodiments, the extension chamber is formed by a valve assembly. In some embodiments, the extension chamber is capable of continuously discharging pre-treated biomass. In some embodiments, the extension chamber is capable of semi-continuously discharging pre-treated biomass. In some embodiments, the extension chamber is capable of discharging large quantities of pre-treated biomass. The biomass is transported by the extruder at the same rate at which the partially treated biomass is transported by the extension chamber. In some embodiments, the extension chamber is pressurized. In some embodiments, the extension chamber comprises one or more nozzles for liquid injection. In some embodiments, the nozzles for liquid injection deliver water into the chamber. In some embodiments, the nozzles for liquid injection deliver a liquid other than water into the chamber. In some embodiments, the liquid is selected from the group consisting of acids, bases, alcohols, ketones, aldehydes, solvents, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the temperature within the reaction zone rises to 50-500°C, 75-400°C, 100-350°C, 150-300°C, 200-250°C, or 150-300°C, and the pressure within the reaction zone is 3.516-70.31 kgf / cm². 2 (50~1000PSI), 7.031~52.74kgf / cm 2 (100~750PSI), 14.06~42.19kgf / cm 2 (200~600PSI), 21.09~35.16kgf / cm 2 (300-500 PSI), or 24.61-31.64 kgf / cm² 2The biomass rises to (350-450 PSI). In some embodiments, the biomass is selected from the group consisting of silage, agricultural residues, maize stalks and leaves, bagasse, sorghum, nuts, nut shells, coconut shells, distillation-dried soluble materials, distillation-dried grains, condensed distillation-soluble materials, distillation-moist grains, distillation-dried grains containing soluble materials, woody materials, sawdust, wood chips, wood pellets, wood residues, mill scrap, municipal waste, waste paper, recycled toilet paper, garden trimmings, as well as energy crops such as poplar, willow, switchgrass, alfalfa, and oxgrass, non-woody plant materials, cellulosic materials, lignocellulose materials, hemicellulose materials, carbohydrates, maize, sugarcane, grasses, high biomass sorghum, bamboo, maize cobs, as well as husks and seeds. In some embodiments, the biomass is processed in the reaction interval for 60, 55, 50, 45, 40, 35, 30, 25, 20, 19, 18, 17, 16, 15, 14, 13, 12, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, or less than 1 second. In some embodiments, the chemical is selected from the group consisting of acids, bases, alcohols, ketones, aldehydes, solvents, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the extruder includes one or more screws. In some embodiments, the extruder includes two screws.

[0013]

[0013] In one embodiment, a system is provided for processing biomass by an extruder and a valve assembly, comprising: an extruder including one or more screws, wherein the action of the screws forms an internal plug of biomass, thereby forming one end of a pressurized reaction section; a method for supplying steam and one or more chemicals to the reaction section; and a valve assembly attached to the outlet end of the extruder, which forms the downstream end of the reaction section and adds liquid to the reaction section, wherein the valve assembly is capable of rapidly releasing the pressurized biomass into an unpressurized discharge section.

[0014]

[0014] In some embodiments, the biomass is selected from the group consisting of silage, agricultural residues, corn stalks and leaves, bagasse, sorghum, nuts, nut shells, coconut shells, distillation-dried soluble substances, distillation-dried grains, condensed distillation-dried soluble substances, distillation-moist grains, distillation-dried grains containing soluble substances, woody materials, sawdust, wood chips, wood pellets, wood residues, mill scrap, municipal waste, waste paper, recycled toilet paper, garden trimmings, as well as energy crops such as poplar, willow, switchgrass, alfalfa, and oxgrass, non-woody plant materials, cellulosic materials, lignocellulose materials, hemicellulose materials, carbohydrates, corn, sugarcane, grasses, high biomass sorghum, bamboo, corn cobs, as well as husks and seeds. In a further embodiment, the biomass is processed in the reaction section for 60, 55, 50, 45, 40, 35, 30, 25, 20, 19, 18, 17, 16, 15, 14, 13, 12, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, or less than 1 second. In another embodiment, the temperature in the reaction section rises to 50-500°C, 75-400°C, 100-350°C, 150-300°C, 200-250°C, or 150-300°C, and the pressure is 3.516-70.31 kgf / cm² by steam. 2 (50~1000PSI), 7.031~52.74kgf / cm 2 (100~750PSI), 14.06~42.19kgf / cm 2 (200~600PSI), 21.09~35.16kgf / cm 2 (300-500 PSI), or 24.61-31.64 kgf / cm² 2 The pressure rises to (350-450 PSI). In another embodiment, the chemical is an acid. In yet another embodiment, the acid is sulfuric acid. In a further embodiment, the valve assembly comprises a housing and a valve body having a larger circular portion, an intermediate conical portion, and a smaller circular collar having one or more nozzles for liquid injection, and a valve needle.

[0015]

[0015] In another embodiment, when a valve needle is installed, a space exists between the valve body and the valve needle. In one embodiment, a nozzle for liquid injection delivers water into the space between the valve body and the valve needle. In another embodiment, a nozzle for liquid injection delivers a liquid other than water into the space between the valve body and the valve needle. In one embodiment, the liquid is selected from the group consisting of acids, bases, alcohols, ketones, aldehydes, solvents, or combinations thereof.

[0016]

[0016] In one embodiment, a method is provided for processing a slurry or liquid in a pipe or barrel attached to a valve assembly, comprising the steps of: having a plug in which the pipe or barrel forms one end of a reaction section; transporting the liquid or slurry by the pipe or barrel; maintaining pressure in the reaction section by introducing steam while attaching the valve assembly to the outlet end of the pipe or barrel to form the downstream end of the reaction section; adding a substance into the upstream end of the valve assembly as the liquid or slurry enters the valve assembly; and using the valve assembly to discharge the processed liquid or slurry into an unpressurized section. In one embodiment, the liquid or slurry contains biomass. In another embodiment, biomass is selected from the group consisting of silage, agricultural residues, maize stalks and leaves, bagasse, sorghum, nuts, nut shells, coconut shells, distillation-dried soluble substances, distillation-dried grains, condensed distillation-dried soluble substances, distillation-moist grains, distillation-dried grains containing soluble substances, woody materials, sawdust, wood chips, wood pellets, wood residues, mill scrap, municipal waste, waste paper, recycled toilet paper, garden trimmings, as well as energy crops such as poplar, willow, switchgrass, alfalfa, and oxgrass, non-woody plant materials, cellulosic materials, lignocellulose materials, hemicellulose materials, carbohydrates, maize, sugarcane, grasses, high-biomass sorghum, bamboo, maize cobs, as well as husks and seeds. In another embodiment, the biomass is processed within the reaction interval for 60, 55, 50, 45, 40, 35, 30, 25, 20, 19, 18, 17, 16, 15, 14, 13, 12, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, or less than 1 second.

[0017]

[0017] In one embodiment, the temperature in the reaction section rises to 50-500°C, 75-400°C, 100-350°C, 150-300°C, 200-250°C, or 150-300°C, and the pressure by steam is 3.516-70.31 kgf / cm². 2 (50~1000PSI), 7.031~52.74kgf / cm 2 (100~750PSI), 14.06~42.19kgf / cm 2 (200~600PSI), 21.09~35.16kgf / cm 2 (300-500 PSI), or 24.61-31.64 kgf / cm² 2 The level rises to (350-450 PSI). In another embodiment, the substance is an acid. In yet another embodiment, the acid is sulfuric acid.

[0018]

[0018] In one embodiment, a system is provided for extending a reaction section downstream of an extruder, comprising an extruder including a reaction section portion, wherein the extruder reaction section portion is attached to a downstream valve assembly including an adjacent inner space, and the reaction section portion in the extruder is combined with the adjacent inner space of the valve assembly to extend a reaction section downstream of the extruder. In another embodiment, the velocity of the material moving through the reaction section portion of the extruder is maintained constant with the velocity of the material moving through the valve assembly.

[0019]

[0019] In one embodiment, the valve assembly has an annular ring which is part of the valve body. In another embodiment, the annular ring is replaceable. In one embodiment, the valve body includes a nozzle for liquid injection. In one embodiment, a valve needle is set in a discharge ring when closed within the valve body. In a further embodiment, the valve needle is attached to an actuator. In one embodiment, the actuator maintains the pressure on the valve needle, which is maintained at a pressure greater than 816.47 kgf (1,800 lbf). In another embodiment, the actuator maintains the pressure on the valve needle between 22,679.62 and 226,796.19 kgf (50,000 to 500,000 lbf).

[0020]

[0020] In one embodiment, the extruder is a twin-screw extruder. In another embodiment, the extruder has ports for adding steam and / or acid.

[0021]

[0021] In one embodiment, a method is provided for extending a reaction section downstream of an extruder, comprising the step of processing biomass within the reaction section, wherein the reaction section extends from the extruder into a downstream valve assembly attached thereto. In one embodiment, the valve assembly comprises a housing and a valve body further comprising a smaller circular collar including a larger circular portion, an intermediate conical portion, and one or more nozzles for liquid injection, and a valve needle.

[0022]

[0022] In one embodiment, the housing includes a removable discharge ring. In another embodiment, the discharge ring is tapered. In a further embodiment, the valve body includes an annular ring. In a further embodiment, the annular ring is removable. In one embodiment, when a valve needle is installed, a space exists between the valve body and the valve needle. In another embodiment, a nozzle for liquid injection delivers water into the space between the valve body and the valve needle. In a further embodiment, a nozzle for liquid injection delivers a liquid other than water into the space between the valve body and the valve needle. In another embodiment, the liquid in the nozzle is selected from the group consisting of acids, bases, alcohols, ketones, aldehydes, solvents, or combinations thereof. In another embodiment, the liquid is an acid. In a further embodiment, the acid is sulfuric acid. In another embodiment, vapor and one or more chemicals are added to the reaction section of the extruder. In further embodiments, the temperature within the reaction interval rises to 50-500°C, 75-400°C, 100-350°C, 150-300°C, 200-250°C, or 150-300°C. The pressure is 3.516-70.31 kgf / cm² by steam. 2 (50~1000PSI), 7.031~52.74kgf / cm 2 (100~750PSI), 14.06~42.19kgf / cm 2 (200~600PSI), 21.09~35.16kgf / cm 2(300-500 PSI), or 24.61-31.64 kgf / cm² 2 The reaction rate rises to (350-450 PSI). In another embodiment, the rate is maintained constant throughout the reaction interval.

[0023]

[0023] In one embodiment, a method for processing biomass is provided, comprising the steps of: transporting biomass by an extruder, wherein the extruder is divided into two sections, namely an input section and a reaction section, and separated by a biomass plug formed downstream of the input section and upstream of the reaction section; partially processing the biomass by adding steam and / or chemicals to the biomass in the reaction section; temporarily transporting the partially processed biomass into an attached valve assembly to continue processing; and releasing the biomass by the valve assembly. In another embodiment, the rate of transported biomass is the same as in the extruder and the valve assembly. In one embodiment, the temperature in the reaction section rises to 50-500°C, 75-400°C, 100-350°C, 150-300°C, 200-250°C, or 150-300°C. The pressure by steam is 3.516-70.31 kgf / cm². 2 (50~1000PSI), 7.031~52.74kgf / cm 2 (100~750PSI), 14.06~42.19kgf / cm 2 (200~600PSI), 21.09~35.16kgf / cm 2 (300-500 PSI), or 24.61-31.64 kgf / cm² 2(350-450 PSI) can rise. In further embodiments, the biomass is selected from the group consisting of silage, agricultural residues, maize stalks and leaves, bagasse, sorghum, nuts, nut shells, coconut shells, distillation-dried soluble materials, distillation-dried grains, condensed distillation-soluble materials, distillation-moist grains, distillation-dried grains containing soluble materials, woody materials, sawdust, wood chips, wood pellets, wood residues, mill scrap, municipal waste, waste paper, recycled toilet paper, garden trimmings, as well as energy crops such as poplar, willow, switchgrass, alfalfa, and oxgrass, non-woody plant materials, cellulosic materials, lignocellulose materials, hemicellulose materials, carbohydrates, maize, sugarcane, grasses, high-biomass sorghum, bamboo, maize cobs, as well as husks and seeds. In one embodiment, the biomass is processed within the reaction interval for 60, 55, 50, 45, 40, 35, 30, 25, 20, 19, 18, 17, 16, 15, 14, 13, 12, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, or less than 1 second. In another embodiment, the chemical is selected from the group consisting of acids, bases, alcohols, ketones, aldehydes, solvents, or combinations thereof. Embedding by reference

[0024] All publications, patents, and patent applications described herein are incorporated by reference in the same way that each individual publication, patent, or patent application is specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

[0024]

[0025] Novel features of this disclosure are specifically described in the attached claims. A better understanding of the features and advantages of this disclosure can be gained by referring to the following detailed description, which describes exemplary embodiments in which the principles of this disclosure are used, and to the attached drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0025] [Figure 1]

[0026] This is a diagram showing the modified pressure valve assembly. [Figure 2]

[0027] This is a longitudinal view of the valve and its housing. [Figure 3]

[0028] Figure 3A is a longitudinal view of the valve assembly from the top (3A) and side (3B) views. Figure 3B is a longitudinal view of the valve assembly from the top (3A) and side (3B) views. [Figure 4]

[0029] This is a longitudinal view of the valve assembly as seen from above. [Figure 5]

[0030] This is an enlarged view of cross-section A shown in Figure 4. [Figure 6]

[0031] This is a cross-sectional view of the valve body through which the valve needle passes. [Figure 7]

[0032] Figure 7A is a cross-sectional view of the valve in the closed annular shape. Figure 7B is a cross-sectional view of the valve in the annular shape with a stroke of 0.5 mm. Figure 7C is a cross-sectional view of the valve in the annular shape with a stroke of 1.0 mm. Figure 7D is a cross-sectional view of the valve in the annular shape with a stroke of 1.5 mm. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0026]

[0033] As used herein and in the appended claims, the singular “a,” “an,” and “the” also include multiple references unless otherwise clearly specified in the context. Thus, for example, a reference to “purified monomer” includes a mixture of two or more purified monomers. In this specification, the terms “comprising” are synonymous with “including,” “containing,” or “characterized by,” and are comprehensive and open-ended, not excluding additional undescribed elements or method steps.

[0027]

[0034] The term "approximately" means that the numerical expression mentioned is within a range of plus or minus 10% of that expression. For example, the term "approximately 4" should encompass a range of 3.6 to 4.4. All numbers used herein to express quantities of components, reaction conditions, etc., should be understood in all cases as being modified by the term "approximately." Therefore, unless otherwise indicated, the numerical parameters described herein are approximations that may vary depending on the desired properties to be obtained. At the very least, this is not intended to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the scope of any claim in any application claiming priority to this application, but each numerical parameter should be interpreted in light of significant figures and common rounding practices.

[0028]

[0035] Whenever the words "for example," "etc.," or "including" are used herein, they shall be understood to be followed by the phrase "and without limitation," unless otherwise expressly specified. Thus, "for example, ethanol production" means "for example, ethanol production, but without limitation."

[0029]

[0036] In this specification and the subsequent claims, several terms are defined as having the following meanings: definition

[0037] "Optional" or "optionally" means that the following events or situations may or may not occur, and the description includes both cases in which such events or situations occur and cases in which they do not occur. For example, the phrase "the medium may optionally contain glucose" means that the medium may or may not contain glucose as an ingredient, and the description includes both glucose-containing and glucose-free mediums.

[0030]

[0038] Unless otherwise specified, the technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meanings as those commonly understood by those skilled in the art.

[0031]

[0039] In this specification, the term “biomass” has the ordinary meaning known to those skilled in the art and may include one or more carbonaceous bio-derived materials that can be converted into biofuels, chemicals, or other products. In this specification, biomass is synonymous with the term “supply material” and includes silage, agricultural residues (such as corn stalks, grasses, straw, grain husks, and bagasse), nuts, nut shells, coconut shells, animal waste (compost from cattle, poultry, and pigs), distillation-dried soluble materials, distillation-dried grains, condensed distillation-soluble materials, distillation-moist grains, distillation-dried grains containing soluble materials, woody materials (wood or bark, sawdust, wood chips, wood pellets, wood residues, and mill scraps), municipal waste (such as waste paper, recycled toilet paper, and garden trimmings), and energy crops (such as poplar, willow, switchgrass, alfalfa, oxgrass, green algae, brown algae, and some red algae, including macroalgae). One exemplary source of biomass is plant matter. Plant matter can include, for example, woody plant matter, non-woody plant matter, cellulosic materials, lignocellulosic materials, hemicellulosic materials, sugarcane, grasses, sorghum, high-biomass sorghum, bamboo, algae, and materials derived therefrom. Plants can be in their natural state or genetically modified plants, for example, to increase the cellulose or hemicellulosic portion of the cell wall, or to increase the separation distance of cell wall components by producing additional exogenous or endogenous enzymes. Plant matter can be further described by referring to the chemical species in which it exists, such as proteins, polysaccharides, and oils. Polysaccharides include polymers and derivatives of various monosaccharides, including glucose, fructose, lactose, galacturonic acid, and rhamnose. Plant-based materials also include agricultural waste, by-products, or by-products such as pomace, corn steep liquor, corn cobs, corn fiber, corn steep solids, distilled grains, husks, seeds, fermentation waste, straw, milling, sewage waste, food scraps, and leftovers. Peels may include, but are not limited to, citrus fruits, including tangerine peel, grapefruit peel, orange peel, lime peel, and lemon peel.These materials can originate from farms, forests, industrial sources, households, etc. Other non-limiting examples of biomass include animal products, such as milk, bones, meat, fat, animal processing waste, and animal excrement. “Supply materials” is often used to refer to biomass used in processes such as those described herein.

[0032]

[0040] In this specification, “pretreatment” or “pretreated” is used to refer to any mechanical, chemical, thermal, biochemical process, or combination thereof, that results in the crushing or expansion of biomass so that the biomass is more susceptible to attack by enzymes and / or microorganisms, and such processes may be performed in combination or sequentially, and may include enzymatic hydrolysis of the released carbohydrate polymers or oligomers to monomers. In one embodiment, pretreatment includes removing or crushing lignin so that cellulose and hemicellulose polymers in plant biomass are more readily available to cellulose-degrading enzymes and / or microorganisms, for example, by treatment with an acid or a base. In one embodiment, pretreatment includes crushing or expansion of cellulosic and / or hemicellulose materials. In another embodiment, pretreatment may refer to starch release to glucose and / or enzymatic hydrolysis. Steam explosion and ammonia fiber expansion (or explosion) (AFEX) are well known thermal / chemical techniques. Hydrolysis methods including those utilizing acids, bases, and / or enzymes may be used. Other thermal, chemical, biochemical, and enzymatic techniques may also be used.

[0033]

[0041] In this specification, “steam explosion” refers to a physicochemical method that uses high-pressure steam to break down bonds between polymer components and then uses reduced pressure to destroy the lignocellulose structure. In this method, a lignocellulose slurry is treated with high-pressure steam for a period of time and then rapidly reduced to atmospheric pressure.

[0034]

[0042] As intended herein, a “liquid” composition may include a solid, and a “solid” composition may include a liquid. A “liquid composition” refers to a composition in which the material is primarily liquid, and a “solid composition” refers to a composition in which the material is primarily solid. A “slurry” refers to a solid that is dissolved or not dissolved in a liquid. explanation

[0043] The following descriptions and examples illustrate some exemplary embodiments of the Disclosure. Those skilled in the art will recognize that numerous variations and modifications of the Disclosure are encompassed within the scope of the Disclosure. Therefore, the descriptions of specific exemplary embodiments should not be considered limiting to the scope of the Disclosure.

[0035]

[0044] In one embodiment, the valve assembly described herein has a structure and design to address the collapse stresses that occur in a high-pressure flow of a treated liquid or slurry of material flowing through a pipe or tube. The valve assembly is designed to incorporate a portion of the processing of such liquid or slurry as the flow enters the valve assembly upstream from the pipe or tube to which it is attached and enters the discharge area downstream through the valve assembly.

[0036]

[0045] Another key advantage of using valve assemblies such as those described herein is that it allows for a reduction in the time the material is processed within the extruder barrel. The pressure and velocity of the material passing through the reaction section are kept nearly constant regardless of the size of the extruder and end valve assembly. Increasing the valve size increases the volume of the reaction section because the annular space within the valve also increases the length of the reaction section, thereby increasing the material processing time, but it does not increase the holding time within the extruder barrel.

[0037]

[0046] In one embodiment, a valve assembly for use at a fluid end is provided. In another embodiment, the valve assembly disclosed herein can be used to process liquids, material slurries, high-density liquids, or any liquefiable substance continuously or semi-continuously under pressure. A process is understood to be the ability to modify a material by heat, pressure, and / or the addition of chemicals, either alone or by mixing, heating, chemical reactions by combinations of two or more components (simultaneous or subsequent additions) under pressure, or by the addition of chemical components such as acids, bases, mixed components, or dyes. Examples of such components include plastics, plant materials, foodstuffs, polymers, polyurethanes, and the like.

[0038]

[0047] In one embodiment, the material slurry may include pre-treated biomass or partially hydrolyzed biomass. Using this configuration, a constant velocity and pressure can be obtained as the material flows through a passage such as a tube or pipe. Water or steam can be added by an intermediate plug and a valve assembly at the outlet to increase and maintain a constant pressure in the passage. The section between the plug and the valve assembly is the reaction section where the material modification takes place. This section involves pushing the material through the end of the valve needle.

[0039]

[0048] In one embodiment, a material can be processed using an extruder and valve assembly. The extruder moves liquid, slurry, solid, and viscous material through a barrel by a screw element. Depending on the shape of the element, the material is decelerated, mixed, or compressed through the barrel. The extruder can be a single-screw extruder, a twin-screw extruder, or a tri-screw extruder. For biomass materials, a twin-screw extruder is preferred. Extruders with specially configured screws designed to allow the addition of very large amounts of steam to increase pressure enable high-speed pretreatment of biomass. Rapid extruder pretreatment systems, such as those described in U.S. Patent Application No. 2016 / 0273009(A1) or WO2018 / 151833(A1), each incorporated herein by reference as a whole, provide unique pathways for the deconstruction of biomass and the release of cellulose and lignin from other biomass components. The combination of mechanical fibrillation, dilute acid hydrolysis, and vapor explosion is achieved in less than 20 seconds, yielding a very clean slurry of soluble carbohydrates, microcrystalline cellulose, and lignin. The short but intensive processing duration results in unique cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin products that are highly reactive, without causing superheating or sulfonation, which occurs in most other processes.

[0040]

[0049] In the past, devices for restricting and removing liquids and materials flowing through pipes or barrels have been proposed. Some of these include intermediate valves in the extruder barrel itself. One such device described in U.S. Patent Application No. 2007 / 0237022(A1) is an adjustable valve assembly in the center of the barrel. Others include end valves, such as those found in U.S. Patent Application No. 2009 / 0053800(A1), WO2010 / 056940A2, or U.S. Patent No. 10,344,757(B1). None of these functions enable high-speed continuous processing as part of a processing system.

[0041]

[0050] Extrusion can be carried out continuously or semi-continuously, and the process can be performed even when the material is at high or low temperatures. Common extruded materials include metals, polymers, ceramics, concrete, craft clay, and foodstuffs, but biomass can also be processed in extruders. Extruders can have one or more shafts. A twin-screw extruder is a machine with two identical, self-cleaning, simultaneously penetrating screws, which are mounted on the shafts in a fixed, closed housing called a “barrel” and rotate in the same direction. Twin-screw extruders can operate continuously with very short residence times under high temperature and high pressure.

[0042]

[0051] In one embodiment, the acid, heat, and explosion pretreatment process for extracting biomass components is a rapid treatment process including a steam explosion. This treatment is carried out by treating small-sized biomass particles with pressurized acid hydrolysis and high temperatures with steam, followed by a steam explosion. Because the entire process is uniform throughout and takes only a few seconds, a fast-moving, effective valve system is required to maintain pressure for continuous treatment.

[0043]

[0052] In biomass processing, steam is injected into the barrel to increase temperature and pressure. In one embodiment, a screw element also functions to slow the flow of material and form an intermediate plug, which seals the material into the barrel after injection and further builds pressure within the barrel. See, for example, U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 932,340, incorporated herein by reference.

[0044]

[0053] The example of the valve assembly is provided not to limit the extruder, but as an example demonstrating its functional value. In this system, one functional embodiment of the pressure valve assembly is to help initiate and maintain a constant pressure through the valve body within the extruder. This is the reaction section where much of the biomass processing takes place. The intermediate plug within the extruder facilitates deceleration by using a specific screw, and steam is used to build pressure within the reaction section. An actuator sets the pressure applied to the valve needle to maintain the required pressure within the extruder and valve body. Precise continuous motion is possible when the valve is coupled to an actuator that operates in response to internal pressure at the end of the pipe or barrel, rather than a manually operated or spring-operated valve.

[0045]

[0054] The actuator is preferably a hydraulic or pneumatic actuator, such as those manufactured by Kyntronics (Solon, OH44139, USA). The actuator maintains a valve needle that moves in and out infinitely and rapidly with very small movements along the longitudinal axis. The actual force that the needle valve must maintain for the biomass in the reaction section of the extruder barrel body can range from 816.47 kgf (1,800 lbf) to 37,194.57 kgf (82,000 lbf) and above (over 226,796.19 kgf (500,000 lbf)). A constant force is achieved by controlling the annular space through which the processed biomass material or liquid flows. The actuator system sends an electrical signal directly to the operating mechanism. The actuator system is set to operate at a specific pressure and to respond to the force exerted by the material flowing out of the tube or extruder.

[0046]

[0055] In one embodiment, when the liquid or slurry is pushed outside the annular ring (the boundary between the annular ring and the discharge ring (see below)), the reaction section includes the area between the plug and the steam explosion area through the valve body, thus shortening the length of the reaction section required in the tube or pipe. In the example of biomass processing in an extruder, this shortens the length of the extruder reaction section and reduces the metallurgical costs required for processing in the extruder.

[0047]

[0056] As shown in Figure 1, in an example of a pressure valve assembly, the valve comprises a valve body 10 with a conical valve needle 11 and a housing 12 with a discharge pipe 13. The valve body and valve needle can be made from any material that can withstand the abrasion of different chemical liquids or slurries traveling from the upstream inlet 30 through the valve body and housing to the discharge pipe 13, but are constructed from an inert metal or a metal with an inert coating. The valve needle is mounted on a shaft 14. The valve body 10, shown in the longitudinal section in Figure 2, has a cylindrical portion 15, an intermediate conical portion 16, and another substantially cylindrical collar 17 with a smaller diameter than the first portion 15. The valve body includes an annular (wear) ring 19 in its widest portion. The annular ring 19 is set in a concave cavity within the valve body portion 15. The inner surface of the annular ring 19 is aligned with the rest of the valve body 10 and functions as a replaceable wear part. The annular ring 19 is located inside the reaction section of the valve and extends to the minimum annular space 21 (see Figure 7A), after which it is pushed out into the atmosphere (steam explosion).

[0048]

[0057] The tapered discharge ring 20 is located outside the valve body 10 within the housing 12 and is not part of the reaction section. The discharge ring 20 is a means of ensuring that the liquid or slurry is guided into the discharge pipe 13 and enters a flush tank (not shown). The discharge ring 20 is also a wear part and is easily replaceable. The tapering of the discharge ring 20 (see Figures 3A and 3B) avoids a right-angle connection to the valve body that could cause material accumulation and interfere with the movement of the substance flowing from the tip of the needle to the outlet.

[0049]

[0058] Figures 3A and 3B are longitudinal cross-sectional views of the top and side of the valve and its housing, respectively. The material flows from the tube, barrel, or pipe upstream under pressure through the valve body into section 17 (hydrodynamic force) and is released downstream into the housing 12. Force from the actuator is applied to the valve needle through the shaft 14.

[0050]

[0059] An annular space 21 exists between the valve body 10 and the valve needle 11. The diameter of the cavity 22 in the housing 12 is 7% larger at the point where the discharged liquid or slurry (material) is received compared to the inner diameter of the valve body 10 at the point where the material is extruded.

[0051]

[0060] During operation, the differential pressure acting on the valve needle 11 causes it to displace along its longitudinal axis 75. The pressure from the valve shaft 14 causes the valve to enter the valve body 15, positioning it directly in front of the widest end of the needle 11.

[0052]

[0061] The widest part of the valve needle 11 is slightly larger than the widest part of the valve body 10, and therefore, when closed, is positioned at the location of the annular ring 19 within the valve body portion 15. In one embodiment, the diameter of the widest end of the needle is at least 4% larger than the diameter of the valve body at the discharge end. In one embodiment, the diameter of the widest end of the needle is about 4% larger than the diameter of the valve body at the discharge end. In one embodiment, the diameter of the widest end of the needle is 416 mm, and the diameter of the discharge end of the valve body is 400 mm. The diameter of the widest end of the needle may be larger or smaller than that. In one embodiment, the cone tapers 45 degrees from its widest diameter to the needle tip 18. In other embodiments, the taper of the cone can range from 45 to 75 degrees. This measurement is based on the material, feedstock, process requirements, space requirements, and the force required to move the valve needle.

[0053]

[0062] The collar 17 is a means of connecting the pressure relief valve to an extruder or other pipe. When the valve is fully installed and the extruder is attached, the valve needle tip 18 extends to the tip of the collar, which is just at the end of the conical portion 16, and a space exists between the needle tip and the discharge end 35 of the pipe or extruder and the end of the screw 38. In the process of pre-treating biomass in the extruder, water is injected through the injection nozzle 36 in the collar 17 (see Figures 4 and 5) before the material leaves the extruder but reaches the valve needle tip 18. This water is used to dilute the material, improve the rheology due to steam explosion, and thus reduce the torque on the extruder to pass through the valve. During processing, the material, especially the slurry, does not flow much, but flows slightly as it is processed through the pipe or barrel. The flow at the outlet is turbulent, but when mixed with water, it becomes a smooth laminar flow and proceeds downstream through the valve space 21. Any liquid can be added just before exiting the pipe to facilitate the flow of material through the valve system and / or to further process the material. In one embodiment, liquids such as water, acids, bases, alcohols, solvents, aldehydes, and ketones can be used for this purpose.

[0054]

[0063] In the closed position of the valve, the valve needle tip 18 rests within the inner space of the valve body 10, near the boundary between the intermediate conical portion 16 and the smaller cylindrical collar 17. See Figure 5. The valve needle tip 18 is located approximately 3-6 mm downstream of the liquid injection section.

[0055]

[0064] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of a valve body 10 without a valve needle 18, facing the discharge end of an extruder having twin-screw 38. After the material exits the extruder, the input nozzle 36 injects the liquid into the collar 17.

[0056]

[0065] Figure 7A is a cross-sectional view of the seal between the conical needle 11 and the conical valve body 15 in the annular ring 19. At this point, the pressure behind the valve shaft 14 is greater than the pressure of the fluid and / or material flowing out of the pipe, thus stopping the flow. Figure 7B shows the movement of the valve needle 11 when the pressure inside the pipe increases and the valve needle 11 moves approximately 0.5 mm toward the housing. The valve needle 11 is separated from its installation position within the annular ring 19, and thus the fluid and / or material can flow through the valve needle 11 and the passage (space) 21 toward the discharge area 22 (shown in Figure 3). Increasing the pressure from the pipe causes the valve needle 11 to move further toward the discharge area, widening the gap between the needle and the annular ring 19, allowing for a larger flow of fluid and / or material. The valve needle 11 moves, i.e., 1.0 mm (Figure 7C) and 1.5 mm (Figure 7D).

[0057]

[0066] During operation, the valve needle 18 moves in and out several times per second to maintain the required setpoint pressure, and thus moves between a fully closed state and a state that allows for a maximum annular space of 2 mm. A hydraulic actuator attached to the valve needle keeps the valve needle moving in and out very rapidly and indefinitely with very small movements along the longitudinal axis.

[0058]

[0067] The passage provides a unique opportunity to extend the reaction section beyond the end of the extruder barrel. In some embodiments, the reaction section is extended by an extension chamber other than the passage of the valve assembly disclosed herein. For example, the extension chamber is formed by a container or tube attached to the outlet end of the extruder. The process is continuous through the extruder and passage 21, and the volume of space 21 must be taken into consideration when measuring the pretreatment time. The extruder barrel section, as well as the manifold and injector assembly, are designed to be repositionable and / or oriented. Thus, if a change in the length of the reaction section is required, for example, the steam injection and acid injection ports can be moved so that the steam and acid injection are carried out further downstream toward the end of the extruder barrel, thereby shortening the period over which the material is pretreated within the extruder section while maintaining the same space volume within passage 21. As a result, wear on the expensive extruder section and coating is reduced, and the overall pretreatment cost is lowered.

[0059]

[0068] In another embodiment, increasing the volume space of the passage by increasing the size of the valve assembly should allow for a longer pretreatment period without increasing extruder wear. In a further embodiment, if a longer steam period is required for a shorter acid treatment, the acid barrel can be moved downstream, thereby increasing the time in contact with the steam and theoretically reducing the amount of acid required, and allowing the acid to be located further downstream. Similarly, if the contact time with the acid at a reaction temperature is too long, causing the formation of inhibitors, the acid barrel can be moved downstream and / or added further back in passage 21, thereby reducing the amount of inhibitors produced.

[0060]

[0069] Depending on the size of the extruder system, 30mm, 63mm, 98mm, and 400mm valves are used to ensure stable and continuous biomass pretreatment. In other embodiments, valves of 500-600mm and larger can be used.

[0061]

[0070] This system consists of an injector with barrel and end valve sizing, providing a considerable degree of flexibility and nearly finite control with respect to the injection possibilities and the duration of pretreatment. The velocity of the material flowing out through the valve is kept constant, and therefore, as the valve size increases, the residence time of the material in space 21 also increases.

[0062]

[0071] From the above example, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that numerous combinations of barrel sections combined with different volumes of passage 21 can be achieved to maximize the efficiency of biomass pretreatment while minimizing pretreatment costs. Temperature and chemicals can fluctuate while the rate of material passing through the system is maintained.

[0063]

[0072] Under certain circumstances, it is desirable to have a continuous process of materials, liquids, or both under constant pressure. For example, pretreatment of biomass is not economical in large quantities. It is time-consuming and wastes material. The problem is how to maintain a constant, precise pressure during processing while simultaneously releasing the pressurized material through pipes or barrels to atmospheric pressure. This is even more difficult when dealing with slurries, as the heterogeneous nature of the mixture can cause pulsation.

[0064]

[0073] The valves described herein can be used at high speeds. For example, continuous biomass processing, as measured at the annular ring 19, is 185–190 m / s for a 0.5 mm stroke. The possible range is approximately 90 m / s to 250 m / s. In other embodiments, speeds of 95 m / s, 100 m / s, 110 m / s, 120 m / s, 130 m / s, 140 m / s, 150 m / s, 160 m / s, 170 m / s, 180 m / s, 190 m / s, 200 m / s, 210 m / s, 220 m / s, 230 m / s, 240 m / s, and above are possible.

[0065]

[0074] The rate at which biomass material passes through the system has been established as 55 kg / m for a 30 mm valve and 96 DMT / day for a 400 mm valve. Larger valves can achieve higher rates.

[0066]

[0075] In some embodiments, the liquid or slurry is processed within the reaction interval for 60, 55, 50, 45, 40, 35, 30, 25, 20, 19, 18, 17, 16, 15, 14, 13, 12, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, or less than 1 second. In some embodiments, the biomass is processed within the reaction interval for approximately 5 to 15 seconds, and in larger systems, the biomass is processed for 30 seconds or less, or 60 seconds or less.

[0067]

[0076] In another embodiment, a liquid or slurry can be processed under high pressure. In one embodiment, the biomass is processed at approximately 0.07031 kgf / cm³. 2 (1psi) ~ approx. 2.109 (kgf / cm) 2 The biomass is pretreated in a pressure range of (30 psi). In another embodiment, the biomass is treated at approximately 3.516 kgf / cm³. 2 (50 psi), 7.031 kgf / cm² 2 (100 psi), 10.55 kgf / cm² 2 (150 psi), 14.06 kgf / cm² 2 (200 psi), 17.58 kgf / cm² 2 (250 psi), 21.09 kgf / cm² 2 (300 psi), 24.61 kgf / cm² 2 (350 psi), 28.13 kgf / cm² 2 (400 psi), 31.64 kgf / cm² 2 (450 psi), 35.16 kgf / cm² 2 (500 psi), 38.67 kgf / cm² 2 (550 psi), 42.19 kgf / cm² 2 (600 psi), 45.7 kgf / cm² 2 (650 psi), 49.22 kgf / cm² 2 (700 psi), 52.74 kgf / cm²2 (750 psi), 56.25 kgf / cm² 2 (800 psi), or a maximum of 63.28 kgf / cm² 2 The biomass is pretreated at a pressure of 900 psi. In some embodiments, the biomass can be treated under high pressure by injecting steam into the container containing the biomass. In one embodiment, the biomass can be treated under vacuum conditions before or after alkaline or acid treatment or any other treatment method provided herein. Exemplary Embodiments Embodiment 1. A system for processing biomass using an extruder and valve assembly, (a) An extruder comprising one or more screws, wherein the action of the screws forms an internal plug of biomass, thereby forming one end of a pressurized reaction section, (b) A method for supplying vapor and one or more chemical substances to the reaction section, (c) A valve assembly attached to the outlet end of the extruder, which forms the downstream end of the reaction section and adds liquid to the reaction section, comprising a valve assembly (d) A system in which the valve assembly is capable of rapidly releasing pressurized biomass into an unpressurized discharge area.

[0068] Embodiment 2. The system according to Embodiment 1, wherein the biomass is selected from the group consisting of silage, agricultural residues, corn stalks and leaves, bagasse, sorghum, nuts, nut shells, coconut shells, distillation-dried soluble substances, distillation-dried grains, condensed distillation-soluble substances, distillation-moist grains, distillation-dried grains containing soluble substances, woody materials, sawdust, wood chips, wood pellets, wood residues, mill scrap, municipal waste, waste paper, recycled toilet paper, garden trimmings, as well as energy crops such as poplar, willow, switchgrass, alfalfa, and oxgrass, non-woody plant materials, cellulosic materials, lignocellulose materials, hemicellulose materials, carbohydrates, corn, sugarcane, grasses, high-biomass sorghum, bamboo, corn cobs, as well as husks and seeds.

[0069] Embodiment 3. The system according to Embodiment 1, wherein the biomass is processed in a reaction interval for 60, 55, 50, 45, 40, 35, 30, 25, 20, 19, 18, 17, 16, 15, 14, 13, 12, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, or less than 1 second.

[0070] Embodiment 4. The temperature within the reaction zone rises to 50-500°C, 75-400°C, 100-350°C, 150-300°C, 200-250°C, or 150-300°C, and the pressure is 3.516-70.31 kgf / cm². 2 (50~1000PSI), 7.031~52.74kgf / cm 2 (100~750PSI), 14.06~42.19kgf / cm 2 (200~600PSI), 21.09~35.16kgf / cm 2 (300-500 PSI), or 24.61-31.64 kgf / cm² 2 The system according to Embodiment 1, which rises to (350-450 PSI).

[0071] Embodiment 5. The system according to Embodiment 1, wherein one of the chemical substances is an acid.

[0072] Embodiment 6. The system according to Embodiment 1, wherein the acid is sulfuric acid.

[0073] Embodiment 7. The valve assembly is Embodiment 8. A housing comprising, (a) It is a valve body, i. Large circular section, ii. The intermediate conical portion, iii. A valve body including a smaller circular collar containing one or more nozzles for liquid injection, (b) The system according to Embodiment 1, further comprising a valve needle.

[0074] Embodiment 9. The valve assembly according to Embodiment 7, wherein a space exists between the valve body and the valve needle when the valve needle is installed.

[0075] Embodiment 10. The valve assembly according to Embodiment 7, wherein a nozzle for liquid injection transmits water into the space between the valve body and the valve needle.

[0076] Embodiment 11. The valve assembly according to Embodiment 7, wherein a nozzle for liquid injection transmits a liquid other than water into the space between the valve body and the valve needle.

[0077] Embodiment 12. The nozzle according to Embodiment 10, wherein the liquid is selected from the group consisting of acids, bases, alcohols, ketones, aldehydes, solvents, or combinations thereof.

[0078] Embodiment 13. A method for processing a slurry or liquid in a pipe or barrel attached to a valve assembly, a. A step in which the pipe or barrel has a plug that forms one end of the reaction section, b. A step of transporting a liquid or slurry by pipe or barrel, c. The step of maintaining the pressure within the reaction section by introducing steam while attaching the valve assembly to the outlet end of the pipe or barrel to form the downstream end of the reaction section, d. When a liquid or slurry enters the valve assembly, the step of adding the substance into the upstream end of the valve assembly, e. A method comprising the step of using a valve assembly to discharge the processed liquid or slurry into a non-pressurized area.

[0079] Embodiment 14. The method according to Embodiment 12, wherein the liquid or slurry contains biomass.

[0080] Embodiment 15. The method according to Embodiment 13, wherein the biomass is selected from the group consisting of silage, agricultural residues, corn stalks and leaves, bagasse, sorghum, nuts, nut shells, coconut shells, distillation-dried soluble substances, distillation-dried grains, condensed distillation-soluble substances, distillation-moist grains, distillation-dried grains containing soluble substances, woody materials, sawdust, wood chips, wood pellets, wood residues, mill scrap, municipal waste, waste paper, recycled toilet paper, garden trimmings, as well as energy crops such as poplar, willow, switchgrass, alfalfa, and oxgrass, non-woody plant materials, cellulosic materials, lignocellulose materials, hemicellulose materials, carbohydrates, corn, sugarcane, grasses, high-biomass sorghum, bamboo, corn cobs, as well as husks and seeds.

[0081] Embodiment 16. The method according to Embodiment 14, wherein the biomass is processed in the reaction interval for 60, 55, 50, 45, 40, 35, 30, 25, 20, 19, 18, 17, 16, 15, 14, 13, 12, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, or less than 1 second.

[0082] Embodiment 17. The temperature within the reaction interval rises to 50-500°C, 75-400°C, 100-350°C, 150-300°C, 200-250°C, or 150-300°C, and the pressure is 3.516-70.31 kgf / cm². 2 (50~1000PSI), 7.031~52.74kgf / cm 2 (100~750PSI), 14.06~42.19kgf / cm 2 (200~600PSI), 21.09~35.16kgf / cm 2 (300-500 PSI), or 24.61-31.64 kgf / cm² 2 The method according to Embodiment 14, which increases to (350-450 PSI).

[0083] Embodiment 18. The method according to Embodiment 14, wherein the substance is an acid.

[0084] Embodiment 19. The method according to Embodiment 14, wherein the acid is sulfuric acid.

[0085] Embodiment 20. A system for extending the reaction section downstream of an extruder, (a) an extruder comprising a reaction section portion, wherein the extruder reaction section portion is attached to a downstream valve assembly including an adjacent inner space, (b) A system in which the reaction section within the extruder is combined with the adjacent inner space of the valve assembly to extend the reaction section downstream of the extruder.

[0086] Embodiment 21. The system according to Embodiment 19, wherein the speed of the material moving through the reaction section of the extruder is kept constant with the speed of the material moving through the valve assembly.

[0087] Embodiment 22. The valve assembly according to Embodiment 19, wherein the annular ring is part of the valve body.

[0088] Embodiment 23. The valve assembly according to Embodiment 19, wherein the annular ring is replaceable.

[0089] Embodiment 24. The valve assembly according to Embodiment 19, wherein the valve body includes a nozzle for introducing liquid.

[0090] Embodiment 25. The valve assembly according to Embodiment 19, wherein the valve needle is installed in the release ring when closed within the valve body.

[0091] Embodiment 26. The valve assembly according to Embodiment 24, wherein the valve needle is attached to the actuator.

[0092] Embodiment 27. The actuator according to Embodiment 25, wherein the actuator maintains the pressure applied to the valve needle.

[0093] Embodiment 28. The actuator according to Embodiment 25, wherein the actuator maintains the pressure applied to the valve needle at more than 816.47 kgf (1,800 lbf).

[0094] Embodiment 29. The actuator according to Embodiment 25, wherein the actuator maintains the pressure applied to the valve needle at 22,679.62 to 226,796.19 kgf (50,000 to 500,000 lbf).

[0095] Embodiment 30. The extruder according to Embodiment 19, wherein the extruder is a twin-screw extruder.

[0096] Embodiment 31. The extruder according to Embodiment 19, wherein the extruder has ports for adding steam and / or acid.

[0097] Embodiment 32. A method for extending the reaction section downstream of an extruder, (a) A method comprising the step of processing biomass within a reaction section, wherein the reaction section extends from an extruder into a downstream valve assembly.

[0098] Embodiment 33. The valve assembly is (a) Housing and (b) It is a valve body, iv. Large circular section, v. The intermediate conical portion, vi. A valve body including a smaller circular collar containing one or more nozzles for liquid injection, (c) The method according to Embodiment 31, further comprising a valve needle.

[0099] Embodiment 34. The valve assembly according to Embodiment 32, wherein the housing includes a removable release ring.

[0100] Embodiment 35. The valve assembly according to Embodiment 33, wherein the discharge ring tapers.

[0101] Embodiment 36. The valve assembly according to Embodiment 32, wherein the valve body includes an annular ring.

[0102] Embodiment 37. The valve assembly according to Embodiment 35, wherein the annular ring is removable.

[0103] Embodiment 38. The valve assembly according to Embodiment 32, wherein a space exists between the valve body and the valve needle when the valve needle is installed.

[0104] Embodiment 39. The valve assembly according to Embodiment 32, wherein a nozzle for liquid injection transmits water into the space between the valve body and the valve needle.

[0105] Embodiment 40. The valve assembly according to Embodiment 38, wherein a nozzle for liquid injection transmits a liquid other than water into the space between the valve body and the valve needle.

[0106] Embodiment 41. The nozzle according to Embodiment 39, wherein the liquid is selected from the group consisting of acids, bases, alcohols, ketones, aldehydes, solvents, or combinations thereof.

[0107] Embodiment 42. The method according to Embodiment 31, wherein steam and one or more chemicals are added to the reaction section of the extruder.

[0108] Embodiment 43. The temperature within the reaction interval rises to 50-500°C, 75-400°C, 100-350°C, 150-300°C, 200-250°C, or 150-300°C, and the pressure is 3.516-70.31 kgf / cm². 2 (50~1000PSI), 7.031~52.74kgf / cm 2 (100~750PSI), 14.06~42.19kgf / cm 2 (200~600PSI), 21.09~35.16kgf / cm 2 (300-500 PSI), or 24.61-31.64 kgf / cm² 2 The method according to Embodiment 31, which increases to (350-450 PSI).

[0109] Embodiment 44. The method according to Embodiment 41, wherein the liquid is an acid.

[0110] Embodiment 45. The method according to Embodiment 41, wherein the acid is sulfuric acid.

[0111] Embodiment 46. The method according to Embodiment 31, wherein the rate is maintained constant throughout the entire reaction interval.

[0112] Embodiment 47. A method for processing biomass, (a) A step of transporting biomass by an extruder, wherein the extruder is divided into two sections, namely an input section and a reaction section, and the biomass is separated downstream of the input section by a biomass plug formed upstream from the reaction section, (b) A step of partially treating the biomass by adding steam and / or chemicals to the biomass in the reaction section, (c) A step of temporarily transporting the partially processed biomass into the attached valve assembly to continue processing, (d) A method comprising the step of releasing biomass by a valve assembly.

[0113] Embodiment 48. The method according to Embodiment 46, wherein the rate of the biomass being transported is the same as that within the extruder and valve assembly.

[0114] Embodiment 49. The temperature within the reaction zone rises to 50-500°C, 75-400°C, 100-350°C, 150-300°C, 200-250°C, or 150-300°C, and the pressure is 3.516-70.31 kgf / cm². 2 (50~1000PSI), 7.031~52.74kgf / cm 2 (100~750PSI), 14.06~42.19kgf / cm 2 (200~600PSI), 21.09~35.16kgf / cm 2 (300-500 PSI), or 24.61-31.64 kgf / cm² 2 The method according to embodiment 46, which increases to (350-450 PSI).

[0115] Embodiment 50. The method according to Embodiment 46, wherein the biomass is selected from the group consisting of silage, agricultural residues, corn stalks and leaves, bagasse, sorghum, nuts, nut shells, coconut shells, distillation-dried soluble substances, distillation-dried grains, condensed distillation-soluble substances, distillation-moist grains, distillation-dried grains containing soluble substances, woody materials, sawdust, wood chips, wood pellets, wood residues, mill scrap, municipal waste, waste paper, recycled toilet paper, garden trimmings, as well as energy crops such as poplar, willow, switchgrass, alfalfa, and oxgrass, non-woody plant materials, cellulosic materials, lignocellulose materials, hemicellulose materials, carbohydrates, corn, sugarcane, grasses, high-biomass sorghum, bamboo, corn cobs, as well as husks and seeds.

[0116] Embodiment 51. The method according to Embodiment 46, wherein the biomass is processed in the reaction interval for 60, 55, 50, 45, 40, 35, 30, 25, 20, 19, 18, 17, 16, 15, 14, 13, 12, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, or less than 1 second.

[0117] Embodiment 52. The method according to Embodiment 46, wherein the chemical substance is selected from the group consisting of acids, bases, alcohols, ketones, aldehydes, solvents, or combinations thereof.

[0118] [1] A system for pre-treating biomass, (a) An extruder comprising one or more screws, wherein the action of one or more screws forms an internal plug of biomass, thereby forming the upstream end of a pressurized reaction section for pretreatment of biomass, (b) A system comprising a valve assembly attached to the outlet end of an extruder, which forms the downstream end of a reaction section and adds liquid to the reaction section.

[0119] [2] The system described in paragraph [1], wherein the biomass is selected from the group consisting of silage, agricultural residues, corn stalks and leaves, bagasse, sorghum, nuts, nut shells, coconut shells, distillation-dried soluble materials, distillation-dried grains, condensed distillation-dried soluble materials, distillation-moist grains, distillation-dried grains containing soluble materials, woody materials, sawdust, wood chips, wood pellets, wood residues, mill scrap, municipal waste, waste paper, recycled toilet paper, garden trimmings, as well as energy crops such as poplar, willow, switchgrass, alfalfa, and oxgrass, non-woody plant materials, cellulosic materials, lignocellulose materials, hemicellulose materials, carbohydrates, corn, sugarcane, grasses, high biomass sorghum, bamboo, corn cobs, as well as husks and seeds.

[0120] [3] The system described in paragraph [1] or [2], wherein the biomass is processed in a reaction interval for 60, 55, 50, 45, 40, 35, 30, 25, 20, 19, 18, 17, 16, 15, 14, 13, 12, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, or less than 1 second.

[0121] [4] The temperature in the reaction zone rises to 50-500°C, 75-400°C, 100-350°C, 150-300°C, 200-250°C, or 150-300°C, and the pressure in the reaction zone is 3.516-70.31 kgf / cm². 2 (50~1000PSI), 7.031~52.74kgf / cm 2 (100~750PSI), 14.06~42.19kgf / cm 2 (200~600PSI), 21.09~35.16kgf / cm 2 (300-500 PSI), or 24.61-31.64 kgf / cm² 2 A system described in any one of paragraphs [1] to [3], which rises to (350-450 PSI).

[0122] [5] The system according to any one of paragraphs [1] to [4], further comprising means for supplying steam and one or more chemicals to the reaction section.

[0123] [6] The system according to paragraph [5], wherein one or more chemical substances include an acid.

[0124] [7] The system described in paragraph [6], wherein the acid is sulfuric acid.

[0125] [8] The valve assembly A valve body comprising a large circular portion, an intermediate conical portion, and a small circular collar containing one or more nozzles for liquid injection, wherein a chamber connecting the injection and discharge ends of the valve body is formed inside the valve body, and the inner diameter of the small circular collar is smaller than that of the large circular portion, A valve needle that can be displaced axially within the valve chamber, The system according to any one of paragraphs [1] to [7], comprising a housing attached to the discharge end of a valve body, which seals the valve needle when the valve needle is detached from the valve body.

[0126] [9] The system according to paragraph [8], wherein the housing includes a removable release ring.

[0127]

[10] The system described in paragraph [9], wherein the release ring tapers.

[0128]

[11] A system according to any one of paragraphs [8] to

[10] , wherein the valve body includes an annular ring.

[0129]

[12] The system according to paragraph

[11] , wherein the annular ring is removable.

[0130]

[13] The system according to any one of paragraphs [8] to

[12] , wherein when the valve needle is closed on the valve body, an annular space is formed between the valve body and the valve needle in the chamber.

[0131]

[14] The system according to any one of paragraphs [8] to

[13] , wherein a nozzle for liquid injection delivers water into the chamber.

[0132]

[15] The system according to any one of paragraphs [8] through

[14] , wherein a nozzle for introducing liquid delivers a liquid other than water into the chamber.

[0133]

[16] The system described in paragraph

[15] , wherein the liquid is selected from the group consisting of acids, bases, alcohols, ketones, aldehydes, solvents, or combinations thereof.

[0134]

[17] The system according to any one of paragraphs [8] to

[16] , wherein the inner diameter of the housing at the end of the housing that abuts the valve body is at least 7% larger than the inner diameter of the valve body at its discharge end.

[0135]

[18] The system according to any one of paragraphs [8] to

[17] , wherein the inner diameter of the housing at the end of the housing that abuts the valve body is about 7% larger than the inner diameter of the valve body at its discharge end.

[0136]

[19] The system according to any one of paragraphs [8] to

[18] , wherein the valve needle has a conical shape and a broad end opposite to the tip of the cone.

[0137]

[20] The system described in paragraph

[19] , wherein the cone tapers to a range of 45 to 75 degrees.

[0138]

[21] The system described in paragraph

[19] , wherein the cone tapers at approximately 45 degrees.

[0139]

[22] The system according to any one of paragraphs

[19] to

[21] , wherein the diameter of the broad end of the valve needle is at least 4% greater than the inner diameter of the valve body at its discharge end.

[0140]

[23] The system according to any one of paragraphs

[19] to

[22] , wherein the diameter of the broad end of the valve needle is about 4% greater than the inner diameter of the valve body at its discharge end.

[0141]

[24] The system according to any one of paragraphs [1] to

[23] , wherein the extruder is a twin-screw extruder.

[0142]

[25] The system according to any one of paragraphs [1] to

[24] , wherein the extruder has ports for adding steam and / or acid.

[0143]

[26] A system for pre-treating biomass, (a) An extruder comprising one or more screws, wherein the action of one or more screws forms an internal plug of biomass, thereby forming the upstream end of a pressurized reaction section for pretreatment of biomass, (b) a valve assembly attached to the outlet end of the extruder, wherein the valve assembly is A valve body comprising a large circular portion, an intermediate conical portion, and a small circular collar containing one or more nozzles for liquid injection, wherein a chamber connecting the injection and discharge ends of the valve body is formed inside the valve body, and the inner diameter of the small circular collar is smaller than that of the large circular portion, A valve needle that can be displaced axially within the valve chamber, A system comprising a housing attached to the discharge end of a valve body, which seals the valve needle when the valve needle is detached from the valve body.

[0144]

[27] The system described in paragraph

[26] , wherein the biomass is selected from the group consisting of silage, agricultural residues, maize stalks and leaves, bagasse, sorghum, nuts, nut shells, coconut shells, distillation-dried soluble materials, distillation-dried grains, condensed distillation-dried soluble materials, distillation-moist grains, distillation-dried grains containing soluble materials, woody materials, sawdust, wood chips, wood pellets, wood residues, mill scrap, municipal waste, waste paper, recycled toilet paper, garden trimmings, as well as energy crops such as poplar, willow, switchgrass, alfalfa, and oxgrass, non-woody plant materials, cellulosic materials, lignocellulose materials, hemicellulose materials, carbohydrates, maize, sugarcane, grasses, high biomass sorghum, bamboo, maize cobs, as well as husks and seeds.

[0145]

[28] The system described in paragraph

[26] or

[27] , wherein the biomass is processed in a reaction interval for less than 60, 55, 50, 45, 40, 35, 30, 25, 20, 19, 18, 17, 16, 15, 14, 13, 12, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, or 1 second.

[0146]

[29] The temperature within the reaction interval rises to 50-500°C, 75-400°C, 100-350°C, 150-300°C, 200-250°C, or 150-300°C, and the pressure rises to 3.516-70.31 kgf / cm². 2 (50~1000PSI), 7.031~52.74kgf / cm 2 (100~750PSI), 14.06~42.19kgf / cm 2 (200~600PSI), 21.09~35.16kgf / cm 2 (300-500 PSI), or 24.61-31.64 kgf / cm² 2 A system described in any one of paragraphs

[26] to

[28] , which rises to (350-450 PSI).

[0147]

[30] The system according to any one of paragraphs

[26] to

[29] , wherein the valve chamber forms the downstream portion of the pressurized reaction section.

[0148]

[31] The system according to any one of paragraphs

[26] to

[30] , further comprising means for supplying steam and one or more chemicals to the reaction section.

[0149]

[32] The system according to paragraph

[31] , wherein one or more chemical substances comprises an acid.

[0150]

[33] The system described in paragraph

[32] , wherein the acid is sulfuric acid.

[0151]

[34] The system according to any one of paragraphs

[26] to

[33] , wherein the housing includes a removable release ring.

[0152]

[35] The system described in paragraph

[34] , wherein the release ring tapers.

[0153]

[36] The system according to any one of paragraphs

[26] to

[35] , wherein the valve body includes an annular ring.

[0154]

[37] The system according to paragraph

[36] , wherein the annular ring is removable.

[0155]

[38] The system according to any one of paragraphs

[26] to

[37] , wherein when the valve needle is closed on the valve body, an annular space is formed between the valve body and the valve needle in the chamber.

[0156]

[39] The system according to any one of paragraphs

[26] to

[38] , wherein a nozzle for liquid injection delivers water into the chamber.

[0157]

[40] The system according to any one of paragraphs

[26] to

[39] , wherein a nozzle for introducing liquid delivers a liquid other than water into the chamber.

[0158]

[41] The system described in paragraph

[40] , wherein the liquid is selected from the group consisting of acids, bases, alcohols, ketones, aldehydes, solvents, or combinations thereof.

[0159]

[42] The system according to any one of paragraphs

[26] to

[41] , wherein the inner diameter of the housing at the end of the housing that abuts the valve body is at least 7% larger than the inner diameter of the valve body at its discharge end.

[0160]

[43] The system according to any one of paragraphs

[26] to

[42] , wherein the inner diameter of the housing at the end of the housing that abuts the valve body is about 7% larger than the inner diameter of the valve body at its discharge end.

[0161]

[44] The system according to any one of paragraphs

[26] to

[43] , wherein the valve needle has a conical shape and a broad end opposite to the tip of the cone.

[0162]

[45] The system described in paragraph

[44] , wherein the cone tapers to a range of 45 to 75 degrees.

[0163]

[46] The system described in paragraph

[44] , wherein the cone tapers at approximately 45 degrees.

[0164]

[47] The system according to any one of paragraphs

[44] to

[46] , wherein the diameter of the broad end of the valve needle is at least 4% greater than the inner diameter of the valve body at its discharge end.

[0165]

[48] ​​The system according to any one of paragraphs

[44] to

[46] , wherein the diameter of the broad end of the valve needle is about 4% larger than the inner diameter of the valve body at its discharge end.

[0166]

[49] The system according to any one of paragraphs

[26] through

[48] , wherein the extruder is a twin-screw extruder.

[0167]

[50] The system according to any one of paragraphs

[26] to

[49] , wherein the extruder has ports for adding steam and / or acid.

[0168]

[51] A method for pretreatment of biomass by a system described in any one of paragraphs [1] to

[50] .

[0169]

[52] A method for pre-treating biomass, (a) A step of transporting biomass from the feed section of an extruder to the reaction section of an extruder, wherein the feed section and the reaction section are separated by a biomass plug formed downstream of the input section and upstream of the reaction section, (b) A step of partially treating the biomass by adding steam and / or chemicals to the biomass in the reaction section, (c) The step of transporting the partially processed biomass into a valve assembly attached to the outlet end of the extruder, and processing the partially processed biomass within the valve assembly, (d) A method comprising the step of releasing biomass by a valve assembly.

[0170]

[53] The method according to paragraph

[52] , wherein the biomass is transported by an extruder at the same rate at which the biomass is transported by a valve assembly.

[0171]

[54] The temperature in the reaction interval rises to 50-500°C, 75-400°C, 100-350°C, 150-300°C, 200-250°C, or 150-300°C, and the pressure in the reaction interval is 3.516-70.31 kgf / cm². 2 (50~1000PSI), 7.031~52.74kgf / cm 2 (100~750PSI), 14.06~42.19kgf / cm 2 (200~600PSI), 21.09~35.16kgf / cm 2 (300-500 PSI), or 24.61-31.64 kgf / cm² 2 The method described in paragraph

[52] or

[53] , which rises to (350-450 PSI).

[0172]

[55] The method according to any one of paragraphs

[52] to

[54] , wherein the biomass is selected from the group consisting of silage, agricultural residues, maize stalks and leaves, bagasse, sorghum, nuts, nut shells, coconut shells, distillation-dried soluble materials, distillation-dried grains, condensed distillation-dried soluble materials, distillation-moist grains, distillation-dried grains containing soluble materials, woody materials, sawdust, wood chips, wood pellets, wood residues, mill scrap, municipal waste, waste paper, recycled toilet paper, gardening waste, as well as energy crops such as poplar, willow, switchgrass, alfalfa, and oxgrass, non-woody plant materials, cellulosic materials, lignocellulose materials, hemicellulose materials, carbohydrates, maize, sugarcane, grasses, high biomass sorghum, bamboo, maize cobs, as well as husks and seeds.

[0173]

[56] The method according to any one of paragraphs

[52] to

[55] , wherein the biomass is processed in a reaction interval for 60, 55, 50, 45, 40, 35, 30, 25, 20, 19, 18, 17, 16, 15, 14, 13, 12, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, or less than 1 second.

[0174]

[57] The method according to any one of paragraphs

[52] to

[56] , wherein the chemical substance is selected from the group consisting of acids, bases, alcohols, ketones, aldehydes, solvents, or combinations thereof.

[0175]

[58] The method according to any one of paragraphs

[52] to

[57] , wherein the extruder includes one or more screws.

[0176]

[59] The method according to paragraph

[58] , wherein the extruder includes two screws.

[0177]

[60] The valve assembly, A valve body comprising a large circular portion, an intermediate conical portion, and a small circular collar containing one or more nozzles for liquid injection, wherein a chamber connecting the injection and discharge ends of the valve body is formed inside the valve body, and the inner diameter of the small circular collar is smaller than that of the large circular portion, A valve needle that can be displaced axially within the valve chamber, The method according to any one of paragraphs

[52] to

[59] , comprising a housing attached to the discharge end of the valve body, which seals the valve needle when the valve needle is detached from the valve body.

[0178]

[61] The method according to paragraph

[60] , wherein the housing includes a removable release ring.

[0179]

[62] The method described in paragraph

[61] , wherein the release ring tapers.

[0180]

[63] The method according to any one of paragraphs

[60] to

[62] , wherein the valve body includes an annular ring.

[0181]

[64] The method according to paragraph

[63] , wherein the annular ring is removable.

[0182]

[65] The method according to any one of paragraphs

[60] to

[64] , wherein when the valve needle is closed on the valve body, an annular space is formed between the valve body and the valve needle in the chamber.

[0183]

[66] The method according to any one of paragraphs

[60] to

[65] , wherein a nozzle for liquid injection delivers water into the chamber.

[0184]

[67] The method according to any one of paragraphs

[60] to

[66] , wherein a nozzle for introducing liquid delivers a liquid other than water into the chamber.

[0185]

[68] The method according to paragraph

[67] , wherein the liquid is selected from the group consisting of acids, bases, alcohols, ketones, aldehydes, solvents, or combinations thereof.

[0186]

[69] The method according to any one of paragraphs

[60] to

[68] , wherein the inner diameter of the housing at the end of the housing that abuts the valve body is at least 7% larger than the inner diameter of the valve body at its discharge end.

[0187]

[70] The method according to any one of paragraphs

[60] to

[69] , wherein the inner diameter of the housing at the end of the housing that abuts the valve body is about 7% larger than the inner diameter of the valve body at its discharge end.

[0188]

[71] The method according to any one of paragraphs

[60] to

[70] , wherein the valve needle has a conical shape and a broad end opposite to the tip of the cone.

[0189]

[72] The system described in paragraph

[71] , wherein the cone tapers to a range of 45 to 75 degrees.

[0190]

[73] The method described in paragraph

[72] , wherein the cone is tapered at approximately 45 degrees.

[0191]

[74] The method according to any one of paragraphs

[71] to

[73] , wherein the diameter of the broad end of the valve needle is at least 4% greater than the inner diameter of the valve body at its discharge end.

[0192]

[75] The method according to any one of paragraphs

[71] to

[73] , wherein the diameter of the broad end of the valve needle is about 4% larger than the inner diameter of the valve body at its discharge end.

[0193]

[76] The method according to any one of paragraphs

[52] to

[75] , wherein the treatment of partially treated biomass in a valve assembly includes the step of subjecting the partially treated biomass to the same high pressure and / or temperature as the reaction section.

[0194]

[77] The method according to any one of paragraphs

[52] to

[76] , wherein the treatment of partially treated biomass in a valve assembly includes the step of adding a substance to the partially treated biomass at the upstream end of the valve assembly.

[0195]

[78] The method according to paragraph

[77] , wherein the substance contains an acid.

[0196]

[79] The method according to paragraph

[78] , wherein the acid comprises sulfuric acid.

[0197]

[80] The method according to any one of paragraphs

[52] to

[79] , wherein the extruder is a twin-screw extruder.

[0198]

[81] The method according to any one of paragraphs

[52] to

[80] , wherein the extruder has ports for adding steam and / or acid.

[0199]

[82] A method for pre-treating biomass, (a) A step of transporting biomass from the feed section of an extruder to the reaction section of an extruder, wherein the feed section and the reaction section are separated by a biomass plug formed downstream of the input section and upstream of the reaction section, (b) A step of partially treating the biomass by adding steam and / or chemicals to the biomass in the reaction section, (c) A step of transporting partially processed biomass to an extension chamber attached to the outlet end of the extruder, (d) A method comprising the step of treating partially treated biomass in an extended chamber to produce pretreated biomass.

[0200]

[83] The method according to paragraph

[82] , further comprising the step of adding an acid at the downstream end of the extruder when the biomass is coming out of the extruder.

[0201]

[84] The method according to paragraph

[82] or

[83] , wherein the extension chamber is formed by a tube.

[0202]

[85] The method according to paragraph

[82] or

[83] , wherein the extension chamber is formed by the container.

[0203]

[86] The method according to paragraph

[82] or

[83] , wherein the extension chamber is formed by a valve assembly.

[0204]

[87] The method according to any one of paragraphs

[82] to

[86] , wherein the extension chamber is capable of continuously discharging pre-treated biomass.

[0205]

[88] The method according to any one of paragraphs

[82] to

[86] , wherein the extension chamber is capable of semi-continuously releasing pre-treated biomass.

[0206]

[89] The method according to any one of paragraphs

[82] to

[86] , wherein the extension chamber is capable of releasing a large amount of pre-treated biomass.

[0207]

[90] The method according to any one of paragraphs

[82] to

[89] , wherein the biomass is transported by an extruder at the same rate at which the partially processed biomass is transported by the extension chamber.

[0208]

[91] The method according to any one of paragraphs

[82] to

[89] , wherein the extension chamber is pressurized.

[0209]

[92] The method according to any one of paragraphs

[82] to

[89] , wherein the extension chamber comprises one or more nozzles for liquid injection.

[0210]

[93] The method according to paragraph

[92] , wherein the nozzle for liquid injection transmits water into the chamber.

[0211]

[94] The method according to paragraph

[92] , wherein the nozzle for liquid injection transmits a liquid other than water into the chamber.

[0212]

[95] The method according to paragraph

[94] , wherein the liquid is selected from the group consisting of an acid, a base, an alcohol, a ketone, an aldehyde, a solvent, or a combination thereof.

[0213]

[96] The temperature in the reaction zone rises to 50 - 500 °C, 75 - 400 °C, 100 - 350 °C, 150 - 300 °C, 200 - 250 °C, or up to 150 - 300 °C, and the pressure in the reaction zone rises to 3.516 - 70.31 kgf / cm 2 (50 - 1000 PSI), 7.031 - 52.74 kgf / cm 2 (100 - 750 PSI), 14.06 - Please note that the original text seems to be incomplete in the pressure range description in line 24. The translation continues based on what's provided. kgf / cm 2 (200 - 600 PSI), 21.09 - 35.16 kgf / cm 2 (300 - 500 PSI), or 24.61 - 31,64 kgf / cm 2 (350 - 450 PSI). The method according to any one of paragraphs

[82] to

[95] .

[0214]

[97] The method according to any one of paragraphs

[82] to

[96] , wherein the biomass is selected from the group consisting of silage, agricultural residues, maize stalks and leaves, bagasse, sorghum, nuts, nut shells, coconut shells, distillation-dried soluble materials, distillation-dried grains, condensed distillation-dried soluble materials, distillation-moist grains, distillation-dried grains containing soluble materials, woody materials, sawdust, wood chips, wood pellets, wood residues, mill scrap, municipal waste, waste paper, recycled toilet paper, garden trimmings, as well as energy crops such as poplar, willow, switchgrass, alfalfa, and oxgrass, non-woody plant materials, cellulosic materials, lignocellulose materials, hemicellulose materials, carbohydrates, maize, sugarcane, grasses, high biomass sorghum, bamboo, maize cobs, as well as husks and seeds.

[0215]

[98] The method according to any one of paragraphs

[82] to

[97] , wherein the biomass is processed in a reaction interval for 60, 55, 50, 45, 40, 35, 30, 25, 20, 19, 18, 17, 16, 15, 14, 13, 12, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, or less than 1 second.

[0216]

[99] The method according to any one of paragraphs

[82] to

[98] , wherein the chemical substance is selected from the group consisting of acids, bases, alcohols, ketones, aldehydes, solvents, or combinations thereof.

[0217]

[0100] The method according to any one of paragraphs

[82] to

[99] , wherein the extruder includes one or more screws.

[0218]

[0101] The method according to paragraph

[0100] , wherein the extruder includes two screws.

[0219]

[0077] Preferred embodiments of the Disclosure have been illustrated and described herein, but it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided for illustrative purposes only. Numerous variations, modifications, and substitutions will be conceivable to those skilled in the art without departing from the Disclosure. When implementing the Disclosure, it should be understood that various alternative means may be used to the embodiments of the Disclosure described herein. The following claims define the scope of the Disclosure and are intended to encompass the methods and structures within the scope of these claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A system for pre-treating biomass, (a) An extruder comprising one or more screws, wherein the action of the one or more screws forms an internal plug for the biomass, thereby forming the upstream end of a pressurized reaction section for the pretreatment of the biomass, (b) A valve assembly attached to the outlet end of the extruder, which forms the downstream end of the reaction section and adds liquid to the reaction section, comprising: The valve assembly, A valve body comprising a large circular portion at the discharge end of the valve body, an intermediate conical portion, and a small circular collar at the inlet end of the valve body, wherein the small circular collar includes one or more nozzles for liquid injection, a chamber is formed inside the valve body connecting the inlet end and the discharge end of the valve body, and the inner diameter of the small circular collar is smaller than that of the large circular portion, A valve needle that is axially displaceable within the chamber of the valve body, wherein when the valve needle is closed on the valve body, the valve needle contacts the valve body at its discharge end; A system comprising a housing attached to the discharge end of the valve body, which seals the valve needle when the valve needle is separated from the valve body.

2. The system according to claim 1, further comprising means for supplying steam and one or more chemical substances to the reaction section.

3. The system according to claim 2, wherein the one or more chemical substances include an acid.

4. The system according to claim 3, wherein the acid is sulfuric acid.

5. The system according to claim 1, wherein the housing includes a removable discharge ring.

6. The system according to claim 5, wherein the removable discharge ring is tapered.

7. The system according to claim 1, wherein the valve body includes an annular ring.

8. The system according to claim 7, wherein the annular ring is removable.

9. The system according to claim 1, wherein when the valve needle is closed on the valve body, an annular space is formed between the valve body and the valve needle in the chamber.

10. The system according to claim 1, wherein the inner diameter of the housing at the end of the housing that contacts the valve body is at least 7% larger than the inner diameter of the valve body at its discharge end.

11. The system according to claim 1, wherein the inner diameter of the housing at the end of the housing that contacts the valve body is about 7% larger than the inner diameter of the valve body at its discharge end.

12. The system according to claim 1, wherein the valve needle has a conical shape and a broad end opposite to the tip of the cone.

13. The system according to claim 12, wherein the cone shape tapers to a range of 45 to 75 degrees.

14. The system according to claim 12, wherein the cone shape tapers at an angle of approximately 45 degrees.

15. The system according to claim 12, wherein the diameter of the wider end of the valve needle is at least 4% larger than the inner diameter of the valve body at its discharge end.

16. The system according to claim 12, wherein the diameter of the wider end of the valve needle is about 4% larger than the inner diameter of the valve body at its discharge end.

17. The system according to claim 1, wherein the extruder is a twin-screw extruder.

18. A method for pre-treating biomass using the system described in any one of claims 1 to 17.

19. A method for pre-treating biomass, (a) A step of transporting the biomass from the supply section of the extruder to the reaction section of the extruder by an extruder, wherein the supply section and the reaction section are separated by a biomass plug formed downstream of the supply section and upstream of the reaction section, (b) A step of partially treating the biomass by adding steam and / or chemicals to the biomass in the reaction section, (c) A step of transporting the partially processed biomass into a valve assembly attached to the outlet end of the extruder, processing the partially processed biomass in the valve assembly, thereby producing pre-treated biomass, wherein the valve assembly is A valve body comprising a large circular portion at the discharge end of the valve body, an intermediate conical portion, and a small circular collar at the inlet end of the valve body, wherein the small circular collar includes one or more nozzles for liquid injection, a chamber is formed inside the valve body connecting the inlet end and the discharge end of the valve body, and the inner diameter of the small circular collar is smaller than that of the large circular portion, A valve needle that is axially displaceable within the chamber of the valve body, wherein when the valve needle is closed on the valve body, the valve needle contacts the valve body at its discharge end; A step comprising a housing attached to the discharge end of the valve body, which seals the valve needle when the valve needle is separated from the valve body, (d) A method comprising the step of releasing the pre-treated biomass through the valve assembly.

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