Pressure-Driven Solvent Extraction for Simpler Process Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solute extraction processes, such as oil extraction from carbon materials, are complex, require careful monitoring of temperature, pressure, and solvent contact time, and can result in poor quality products, equipment damage, or explosions if not managed properly.
Innovation Solution
A method that establishes a pressure differential within the extraction system to facilitate solvent movement, using solvents like butane, and recaptures the solvent for reuse, simplifying the process by separating extraction and recovery stages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If complex compressors, vacuums, and monitoring systems are used for extraction, then extraction efficiency can be improved, but device complexity and operational difficulty increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the complex compression, vacuum, and monitoring systems from the extraction apparatus, replacing them with a simple pressure differential system using gas cylinders and natural pressure gradients. This eliminates unnecessary complexity while maintaining extraction functionality through the core principle of pressure-driven solvent flow through the material matrix.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes self-regulating pressure differentials created by gas expansion and contraction cycles, eliminating the need for external compressors, vacuums, and active monitoring systems. The apparatus automatically cycles through extraction phases using the inherent physical properties of the gases and pressure vessels, making the system self-operating and simplifying both device structure and operational requirements.
2Manufacturing precision
If close monitoring of solvent contact time, temperatures, and pressures is implemented, then extraction quality can be improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to increased monitoring requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic cycling of pressure differentials through controlled gas addition and release, creating automatic rhythmic phases of solvent penetration, extraction, and recovery. This periodic action inherently controls contact time and temperature variations without requiring continuous monitoring, as the system naturally oscillates between extraction and recovery states based on pressure equilibrium.
Solution Approach 2:
The system controls extraction quality by changing the physical state and pressure parameters of the solvent gas cyclically. By adjusting gas pressure, temperature, and flow rate in discrete phases rather than maintaining constant monitored conditions, the apparatus achieves effective extraction while simplifying operation to basic parameter adjustments rather than continuous monitoring.
3Productivity
If traditional extraction systems are used without simplified control, then comprehensive extraction can be achieved, but the risk of equipment damage and safety hazards increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates pressure relief valves, check valves, and controlled gas release mechanisms that preemptively protect the system from over-pressurization and unsafe conditions. These safety features are built into the pressure vessel system and gas delivery apparatus, providing automatic protection before hazardous conditions can develop, thereby ensuring equipment safety while maintaining extraction effectiveness.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The method achieves efficient extraction of up to 98% of plant oil with simplified control over extraction parameters, reducing the risk of equipment damage and improving process safety.
Implementation Method 1
A method may establish or increase a pressure differential within the extraction system, such as between extraction system devices, for moving a fluid within said extraction system
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosed embodiments include systems and methods for the solvent extraction of a substance from a material. The disclosed systems include multiple tanks and an extraction column in communication with the tanks. Solvent transport is accomplished via pressure differentials that are established between or among tanks to cause the solvent to be transported between or among the tanks.