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U.S. Department of Energy
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Process for producing fuel grade ethanol by continuous fermentation, solvent extraction and alcohol separation

Patent ·
OSTI ID:865456
Alcohol substantially free of water is prepared by continuously fermenting a fermentable biomass feedstock in a fermentation unit, thereby forming an aqueous fermentation liquor containing alcohol and microorganisms. Continuously extracting a portion of alcohol from said fermentation liquor with an organic solvent system containing an extractant for said alcohol, thereby forming an alcohol-organic solvent extract phase and an aqueous raffinate. Said alcohol is separated from said alcohol-organic solvent phase. A raffinate comprising microorganisms and unextracted alcohol is returned to the fermentation unit.
Assignee:
Georgia Tech Research Corporation (Atlanta, GA)
Patent Number(s):
US 4517298
Application Number:
06/534,262
OSTI ID:
865456
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English