John W Owens

US Patent:

7153428, Dec 26, 2006

Filed:

Apr 28, 2005

Appl. No.:

11/117269

Inventors:

David P. Chynoweth - Gainesville FL, US
Arthur A. Teixeira - Gainesville FL, US
John M. Owens - High Springs FL, US
Patrick J. Haley - Gainesville FL, US

Assignee:

University of Florida Research Foundation, Inc. - Gainesville FL

International Classification:

C02F 3/28
C02F 11/04
C05F 17/02

US Classification:

210603, 210613, 210 97, 210173, 210175, 210259, 210903, 71 10

Abstract:

The present invention provides improved systems and processes for performing sequential batch anaerobic composting (SEBAC) on high solids content wastes. In particular, the present invention provides improved flooded SEBAC systems that function more efficiently (i. e. , higher conversion kinetics) at lower temperatures than conventional SEBAC systems. Further, the improved flooded SEBAC systems and processes of the subject invention enable efficient anaerobic digestion operation at a smaller reactor volume ratio as compared to conventional SEBAC systems, without the displacement of leachate and clogging as a result of entrapped biogas or an increased pressure drop (hydraulic). Further, the improved flooded SEBAC systems of the invention overcome concerns associated with leachate displacement as well as excessive pressure drops.

US Patent:

20130288326, Oct 31, 2013

Filed:

Mar 14, 2013

Appl. No.:

13/803218

Inventors:

UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA RESEARCH FOUNDATION, INC. - , US
KERRY JOHANSON - GAINESVILLE FL, US
IOANNIS MARTINOS POLEMATIDIS - JACKSONVILLE FL, US
JOHN M. OWENS - ALACHUA FL, US
DAVID P. CHYNOWETH - GAINESVILLE FL, US

International Classification:

C12M 1/107

US Classification:

435167, 4352901, 4352904, 435168

Abstract:

The subject invention provides advantageous systems and processes for anaerobic digestion of organic waste streams, particularly agricultural waste streams. According to this invention, a new process is provided in which a liquid fraction from an organic waste stream comprising soluble compounds is segregated and incubated in a reactor separate from the solids fraction of the organic waste stream. Digestion of waste in both reactors occurs substantially simultaneously and both reactors produce biogas (thus both reactors function essentially like single stage reactors but allow for continuous or intermittent loading). According to one aspect of the invention, at least one cross-flow baffle is provided for use in an anaerobic digester to collect biogas and break up clumped solids in the reactor. In another aspect of the invention, packing media for use in an anaerobic digester is provided.