This class provides for processes involving steps resulting
in separation of a gas from a fluid mixture comprising (i) a gas
and solid or liquid particles entrained therein, (ii) a liquid and
gas entrained therein, or (iii) a plurality of gases. As a general
rule for this class, there must be a relationship of process steps
embracing: (a) inflow of the fluid mixture to be treated, (b) a
step or steps effective to cause the separation into constituent parts,
and (c) an outflow of at least one constituent which is separate
and distinct from the outflow of another constituent, including
outflow of a constituent by removing the separating medium itself.
The gas separation for this class is effected by processes other
than chemical reaction.
The basic subject matter of this class is of a subcombinational
nature and may include only such ancillary process steps (e.g.,
fluid handling, etc.) as are necessary to perfect the gas separating
function. Significant inclusion in a claim of features beyond merely
perfecting the gas separating function indicates classification
in a more comprehensive class. Thus, the combination of a gas separation
process of this class and any cleaning or regenerating of the separation
media is properly in this class, because the cleaning or regenerating
is perfecting the gas separating function. Generally, however, the mere
naming of an art process in a claim to gas separation does not affect
classification. Thus, a claim to filtration of a gas from a named
source with no details of that source is proper for this class.
(1)
Note. The gas separation processes for this class generally
involve the use of physical chemistry, chromatography, solid sorption, gas
and liquid contact, gas contact, electrical fields, magnetic fields,
wave energy, selective diffusion, filtration, deflection, or other
mechanical means. (Also see Lines with Other Classes, below.)
(2)
Note. This class also provides for processes in which the
fluid mixture is treated to change its make-up, but no real separation occurs,
provided no other suitable classification exists. Accordingly, in
this class are found processes of using "spark arresters," which
merely change the size of particles entrained in a gas. These devices
are usually deflectors or screens. The processes of using them are
included in this class because of their similarity to processes which
actually separate the fluid mixture into constituent parts. Similarly,
agglomeration, which by itself may not separate particles entrained
in a gas, but cause small particles entrained therein to join together or
coalesce to form larger particles, is in this class unless basis
for other classification exists.
SECTION II - LINES WITH OTHER CLASSES AND WITHIN THIS CLASS
The gas separation processes for this class generally involve
the use of physical chemistry, chromatography, solid sorption, gas
and liquid contact, gas contact, electrical fields, magnetic fields,
wave energy, selective diffusion, filtration, deflection, or other
mechanical means. See the class search note in section III for Class
423, Chemistry of Inorganic Compounds, for the line concerning the
processes in which the gas separation is caused by a chemical reaction.
Also, see the class search note in section III for Class 588, Hazardous
or Toxic Waste Destruction or Containment, for the line concerning
the processes in which the gas separation is caused by destruction
or permanent containment of the hazardous or toxic waste.
Degassing or purging processes for the removal of a gas from
a solid will be placed in the class where the solid is either manufactured
or treated. The removal of a gas from a solid sorbent (i.e., regeneration),
per se, will be found in Class 502, Catalyst, Solid Sorbent, or
Support Therefor: Product or Process of Making. However, the use
of a solid sorbent to separate a gas from a fluid mixture and the
removal of the gas from the solid sorbent (i.e., regeneration) will
be found in this class. For the removal of a gas from a solid, where
the solid is not identified, see Class 134, Cleaning and Liquid
Contact With Solids.
The Search Notes below also contain lines with other classes.
Metal Working, appropriate subclasses indented under
subclass 592 , particularly subclass 896.62 for processes of
mechanical manufacture for making a filter.
Drying and Gas or Vapor Contact With Solids, appropriate subclasses for generic processes for
separating liquids from solids (i.e., drying) and the contacting
of solids with either gases or vapors. Class 95 takes the separation
of a gas from a fluid mixture in combination with the regeneration
of the separating media by drying or by gas or vapor contact.
Power Plants,
subclasses 273 -274 for processes of treating or handling the materials
discharging from the combustion chamber of an internal combustion
engine.
Refrigeration, appropriate subclasses for processes peculiar to
removing heat from a substance, usually by a change of phase of
a coolant or refrigerant and for processes involving subject matter
for Class 95 combined with a significant refrigeration step. Examples
of significant refrigeration are: (i) expansion of a gas through
an orifice whereby cooling is effected to condense any of the constituents
of the gas by such temperature reduction; (ii) a significant physical
relationship or arrangement between elements of a refrigeration
circuit (e.g., two related refrigeration coils, detailed description
of the circuit, etc.); (iii) change of phase of a coolant or refrigerant
(i.e., evaporation, melting, or sublimation) whereby cooling is
effected to condense any of the constituents of the gas by such
temperature reduction. Some examples of what may be found in Class
62 are: (a) separation of a constituent from a plurality of gases
by a significantly claimed refrigeration step or apparatus; (b) condensation
of moisture from the atmosphere as a result of a refrigeration operation;
(c) gas drying by sorption followed by contacting the dried gas
with a liquid to produce cooling by evaporation; (d) a refrigerated
enclosure combined with sorption means; (e) refrigeration producing
processes and apparatus combined with steps or means for drying
the refrigerant; and (f) extracting a constituent from a plurality of
gases by liquefaction and separation (e.g., fractionation or distillation,
etc.). Class 95 takes gas separation of general application, including
cooling of the sorbent or cooling of gas, but not including evaporative
cooling after sorption of the type noted in (c) above. Class 95
takes the cold wall-hot wall thermal diffusion or repulsion type
of separation, regardless of any refrigeration claimed. Class 95
also takes expansion through an orifice of a liquid and gas entrained
therein where the gas is removed from the liquid through the lowering of
the pressure and the cooling effect which inherently results from
such pressure reduction is not transferred
through a wall to another material; if such heat transfer occurs,
classification in Class 62 is proper.
Measuring and Testing,
subclasses 23.2 -31.07 for gas analysis, per se, and also the combination
of gas separation and significant gas analysis. The combination
of gas separation and a nominal step of "analyzing" or "detecting" without
further detail of the analysis or detection is insufficient to cause
a patent to be placed in Class 73; that patent will be placed in Class
95. Also, if there is feedback from the analytical apparatus to
control or effect a change in the gas separating operation, then classification
is in Class 95.
Specialized Metallurgical Processes, Compositions
for Use Therein, Consolidated Metal Powder Compositions, and Loose
Metal Particulate Mixtures, appropriate subclasses for processes for the treatment
of liquid or vaporous metal. See
subclass 405 for removal of gas from liquid metal by use of
a gas permeable membrane and subclasses 407-412 for filtering vaporous
metal.
Gas Separation: Apparatus, appropriate subclasses for the corresponding apparatus
to the processes of Class 95. When a patent has a claim or claims
to a Class 95 process and a claim or claims to a Class 96 apparatus,
the patent will be placed as an original in Class 95, even though
there may be an apparatus claim that is more comprehensive than
a process claim.
Surgery,
subclasses 200.24 through 207.18for methods of supplying a breathable gas to, or exhausting
such gas from, a living body. Subclass 200.24 and the subclasses
mentioned below require that the method be adapted for use on or
in the living body and also include diagnostic or therapeutic methods
when the only disclosed utility is for diagnosis or treatment of
a living body. See especially subclass 200.25 for an artificial
gill or means for separating entrained air from a liquid stream;
subclass 201.25 for a respiratory device including body or head
supported means covering user’s scalp and means for removing
a substance from respiratory gas; subclass 204.16 for removal of a
substance from respiratory gas by cooling; subclass 205.12 for means
for supplying respiratory gas under positive pressure including means
for removing a substance from the respiratory gas; and subclass
205.27 for a respiratory device including means for removing a substance
from respiratory gas.
Fluid Handling, appropriate subclasses for combinations of fluid
handling and gas separation involving more than mere flow control
to or from the separating means. (a) For classification in either
Class 137 or Class 95, where both the fluid handling and gas separation
are included in the combination, classification will be based upon
the ultimate purpose of the subject matter and not upon the ancillary
or subordinate feature of the combination consistent with the objects
and aims therefor (e.g., it is not intended that the inclusion of
filtering, no matter how specifically defined, will be sufficient to
carry a "gas field storage and distribution process" to
Class 95 whether the filtering protects the apparatus used in the
process or is the last step in the process). The fluid handling
for Class 95 should be no more than that necessary to convey or
conduct the fluid mixture to, at, or away from the point of separation.
(b) Class 137 also takes separation of gases from gases, liquids,
or solids by gravity only (i.e.,
where no specific means is claimed for effecting the separation).
Fluent Material Handling, With Receiver or Receiver
Coacting Means,
subclasses 4 through 8for processes of transferring fluent material through
a flow confining system, the source and receiver parts of which
are normally separable, including varying gaseous conditions (e.g.,
causing a vacuum, etc.) in the receiver.
Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture, appropriate subclasses for processes there classified
for adhesively bonding and otherwise manufacturing filters.
Heat Exchange, appropriate subclasses for processes where only indirect
heat exchange is involved and especially
subclasses 201 -265 and 58-66 for heating and cooling including addition
or removal of water vapor from air. Cold wall-hot wall thermal diffusion
processes will be found in Class 95, subclass 289.
Wells, appropriate subclasses for processes involving shafts or
deep borings in the earth for the extraction of fluids from the
earth. See especially
subclasses 265 through 267for processes involving separating material leaving the
well. A gas separation process including a nominal recitation of
a well process is proper for Class 95. For classification in Class
166, some details specific to a well process should be recited for
the combination of a gas separation process and a well process.
However, in the situation in which one of the constituents separated
is inserted into an input well, a mere broad recitation of such
well process is sufficient for classification in Class 166.
Distillation: Processes, Separatory,
subclasses 39 through 48for processes for separating a liquid mixture (distilland)
by vaporizing and condensing at least a portion thereof to isolate in
the condensed liquid (distillate) or in the unvaporized portion
(residue) a comparatively pure compound combined with subjecting
the vapor to a disparate physical treatment to remove a substance.
For Class 203, the liquid mixture (distilland) must have a boiling
point above 0°C under normal atmospheric pressure (760
mm Hg).
Chemistry: Electrical and Wave Energy, appropriate subclasses for processes in which a chemical
change is brought about by the application of an electric current
or wave energy to material being treated wherein more than the mere
thermal effect of the current or energy is involved and
subclasses 554 through 573for processes for the separation or purification
of liquids by the physical or physical-chemical action of an electrical
stress. See particularly subclass 157.3 for processes in which an
initial normally gaseous mixture is treated by wave energy so as
to remove therefrom by a chemical reaction or change to a different
chemical form at least one of the components therein.
Mineral Oils: Processes and Products, appropriate subclasses for processes for the recovery or
treatment of naturally occurring mineral oil which result in the
production of a purified or modified mineral oil. See particularly
subclass 310 for the separation of mineral oils into hydrocarbon
fractions, at least one of which is a mineral oil, wherein a mineral
oil containing fluid mixture is contacted with a solid material which
selectively adsorbs a mineral oil fraction from the fluid mixture.
See also subclass 340 for the recovery of liquid mineral oils from
natural gases or from uncondensed gas-vapor mixtures obtained from
a mineral oil conversion operation including separation of mineral
oils into hydrocarbon fractions, at least one of which is a mineral
oil. Processes which involve a gas separation procedure classifiable
in Class 95 followed by the recovery of a mineral oil by name only
(e.g., reciting only rectification, vacuum pressure or flash distillation,
etc.) are classified in Class 95. Processes wherein the mineral
oil recovery step includes any details thereof or includes some
subsequent treatment of the separated mineral oil are classified
in Class 208.
Classifying, Separating, and Assorting Solids, subclasses indented under
subclasses 21 and 133 that include "deposition" in
their titles for processes for the separating and segregating into
grades components of solid mixtures employing a gaseous suspending
medium which is separated from the solids.
Liquid Purification or Separation, appropriate subclasses for the separation of a constituent from
a flowable liquid mixture; except for the separation of a gas initially
present in a liquid mixture. Class 210 is superior to Class 95 and takes
separating processes, per se, generically disclosed or claimed as
fluid separation or if the disclosure or a claim is restricted to
liquid separation. Class 210 also takes processes which remove or
vent gas formed incidentally to the handling of the fluid mixture
or as a result of a Class 210 treatment (see particularly
subclasses 603 , 640, 664, 718, and 750). However, Class 95 takes
processes operating to remove gas initially present in an inflowing
liquid mixture, with or without liquid separation. The removal of
a volatile organic compound (e.g., ethanol (C2H5OH),
gasoline, etc.) from a liquid is not taken to be degasification
of a liquid for Class 95 when the volatile organic compound is initially
present as a liquid mixed with another liquid. The removal of a
volatile organic compound from a liquid may be found in Class 210
for liquid purification or separation or Class 203 for separatory
distillation processes. Class 95 will also take a process including
a liquid separation step in a Class 95 operation (e.g., regenerating
a scrubbing liquid in a gas scrubbing operation, etc.).
Solid Material Comminution or Disintegration,
subclasses 18 through 19for processes for combinations of comminution and
separation of solids from a gas. Class 241 is superior to the material
separation classes and, therefore, provides for processes in which
comminution is combined with steps to separate the material into
classes according to the physical characteristics of its components
before, during, or after the comminuting operation. Class 95 takes
processes, such as deflection or the like, that may act to comminute
material as a secondary or incidental function of what is basically
a holding back or separating procedure (e.g., disintegration or
attrition of ignited particles in spark arresters, etc.). Such processes
are classified on the basis of their essential function in Class
95.
Radiant Energy,
subclasses 282 through 284for methods for the ionic separation of materials
utilizing the charge-to-mass ratios of particles. These methods
may be for subjecting the ionized particles to the effects of an
electric or magnetic field, which causes the particles to travel
through a curved trajectory, the particles of a certain charge-to-mass
ratio having a trajectory different from those particles having other
charge-to-mass ratios.
Compositions,
subclasses 189 through 192for substances (e.g., liquid sorbent compositions, etc.)
for use in absorbing or binding carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur (S),
negative elements, or acids; subclass 193 for substances (e.g.,
liquid sorbent compositions, etc.) for use in absorbing or binding
ammonia, alkalis, or other bases; and subclass 194 for substances
(e.g., liquid sorbent compositions, etc.) for use in absorbing or
binding water.
Gas and Liquid Contact Apparatus, appropriate subclasses for apparatus for degasifying
liquid (e.g., deaerating feed water heater, etc.) wherein the liquid
is merely contacted with a gas in a chamber or space for deaeration thereof;
for apparatus wherein a gaseous fluid mixture is contacted with
a liquid spray, sheet, stream, or bath to precipitate dust or to
sorb a constituent from the gaseous fluid mixture; for apparatus
comprising a nonabsorbent element on which a gaseous fluid mixture
is contacted with a liquid if the element is continuously supplied
with a liquid or is continuously moved into and out of a liquid
bath or supply; and for apparatus comprising an absorbent porous sheet
or mass on which a gaseous fluid mixture is contacted with a liquid
if the sheet or mass is: (a) continuously supplied with liquid,
(b) cyclically or periodically moved through a liquid reservoir,
(c) maintained wet by liquid applying means, or (d) moistened by
maintaining some part of a continuous wick type member immersed
in liquid, by following the law of the machine, or during normal
operation of a gas contacting function. Note that under the provisions
of (a) and (b) there must be no affirmative means to dry the sheet
or mass, nor means to assure a dry condition of the sheet or mass
before gas flow is resumed or the sheet or mass is returned to the
gas contacting position. If apparatus for degasifying liquid by
contact with a gas has other means to cause gas separation of the
liquid with gas entrained therein, of the separated gas, or of the
separated liquid, then the apparatus is classified in Class 96.
If apparatus in which a gaseous fluid mixture is contacted with
a liquid to precipitate dust or to sorb a constituent from the gaseous
fluid mixture has other means to cause gas separation or has means
to treat the contact liquid, then the apparatus is classified in
Class 96.
(1)
Note. Apparatus for separating ammonia (NH3)
or acid anhydrides (CO2, SO2,
etc.) from a gas by mere contact with a liquid is classified in
Class 261.
(2)
Note. Processes for gas separation by contacting a gaseous
fluid mixture with a liquid and processes of degasifying a liquid
are classified in Class 95.
Induced Nuclear Reactions: Processes, Systems,
and Elements, for processes for induced nuclear reactions combined with
steps for reaction product treatment. See particularly
subclasses 146 through 148,189, 195, 198, and 201. See subclasses 308-316 for
processes including fission reactor material treatment.
Conveyors: Fluid Current,
subclasses 154 through 180for processes to convey solid material in a fluid
current with separation of the solids from the fluid at the conveyor
outlet.
Chemical Apparatus and Process Disinfecting, Deodorizing,
Preserving or Sterilizing,
subclass 4 for processes of acting on a gas for maintaining
a protective environment or counteracting a destructive environment
by disinfecting, deodorizing, preserving, or sterilizing. The deodorizing
for Class 422 generally involves adding a substance to a gas to
mask an odor. Class 95 takes deodorizing a gas that involves gas
separation of the type that meets the requirements for gas separation
in the definition for Class 95. Class 422 is the residual place
for deodorizing a gas that does not meet the requirements of the
definitions for Class 95 or Class 423.
Chemistry of Inorganic Compounds,
subclasses 210 through 215.5for gas separation methods relying upon a chemical
reaction (including combustion). However, for a Class 95 process
including a chemical reaction not involved in the separation, per
se, see the Class 95 Glossary for TREATMENT. A particular chemical
must be claimed and the chemical reaction must be inherent or disclosed
for patents to be placed in Class 423. Broadly reciting the separating
material as a "chemical" or as "gas purifying
material" does not exclude the patent from Class 95. Absorption
and adsorption are not considered chemical reactions in this respect.
Processes for separating a gaseous fluid mixture having therein
ammonia (NH3) or acid anhydrides (e.g., CO2,
SO2, etc.) by contacting the gaseous fluid
mixture with water and thus dissolving these gases out of the gaseous
fluid mixture are in Class 95, notwithstanding the fact that a chemical
reaction occurs in the solution and that ammonium hydroxide or the
acids are formed. Corresponding gas and liquid contact apparatus,
per se, is classified in Class 261. See the search class note for
Class 261 in this section for the line. See subclass 658.2 for hydriding
an alloy of two or more metals and recovering hydrogen from the
hydride.
Chemistry: Molecular Biology and Microbiology, appropriate subclasses for processes of using a micro-organism
or enzyme to synthesize a chemical product and for processes of treating
a material with a micro-organism or enzyme to separate, liberate,
or purify a preexisting substance. See particularly
subclass 266 for processes of treating a gas, emulsion, or foam
with an enzyme or immobilized enzyme or micro-organism or plant
or animal cells to isolate or recover a preexisting substance which
is chemically unchanged by the process.
Imperforate Bowl: Centrifugal Separators, appropriate subclasses for processes for the breaking
up or subdividing of material, which material comprises a mixture
of fluids or fluent substances, into two or more components by utilizing
a rotatable, receptaclelike member having a generally solid wall,
and commonly termed a bowl, for subjecting the material to centrifugal
force. Thus, gas separation processes that use an imperforate bowl,
centrifugal separator are proper for Class 494.
Catalyst, Solid Sorbent, or Support Therefor: Product
or Process of Making,
subclasses 20 through 56for regenerating or rehabilitating solid sorbent
compositions, per se, subclasses 60-87 for zeolite compositions
and for processes of making zeolite compositions, and subclasses
400-438 for other solid sorbent compositions and for processes of
making solid sorbent compositions. Class 95 will take the combination
of gas separation using a solid sorbent composition and regenerating
or rehabilitating the solid sorbent composition.
Colloid Systems and Wetting Agents; Subcombinations
Thereof; Processes of Making, Stabilizing, Breaking, or Inhibiting, appropriate subclasses for colloid systems or agents for such
systems or making or stabilizing such systems or agents, appropriate
subclasses for processes of or compositions for or subcombination
compositions for the breaking of or inhibiting of colloid systems
(
subclasses 115 through 134for defoaming); in each instance, when generically
claimed or when there is no hierarchically superior provision in the
USPC for the specifically claimed art.
Chemistry of Hydrocarbon Compounds,
subclasses 800 through 868for processes in which a mixture of a hydrocarbon
compound with another substance is treated to recover that same
compound in a more usable condition, that is, a purer or more desirable
condition, by a treatment which comprises separating the hydrocarbon
from the other substance or making the other substance less noxious.
Hazardous or Toxic Waste Destruction or Containment, appropriate subclasses for non-gaseous hazardous
or toxic waste destruction by any chemical means, including heating,
chemical agents, or the interaction with any form of radiation to
cause a chemical change which results in an environmentally safe
substance. Class 588 provides for the destruction of gaseous chemical
warfare agents, and includes gas separation when it is incidental
to the destruction of non-gaseous hazardous or toxic waste.
SECTION IV - GLOSSARY
DETECT
The term "detect," which is used in
many of the control subclasses, is used in both a quantitative and
a qualitative sense. This means that a definite measurement of a process
variable is made (e.g., temperature, pressure, concentration, etc.)
or that the presence of a particular event is determined (e.g.,
presence of sparking, change in liquid level determined by position
of float, etc.).
FILTER
An article or mass of material made of closely spaced
or intimately arranged intermeshed or unconnected fibers, elements,
strands, or particles that collectively act as a barrier to physically
retain at least one constituent of a fluid mixture on its surfaces
or in the spaces between the fibers, elements, strands, or particles
while permitting passage of the remaining constituents.
A filter has no "chemical" affinity for
a constituent of a fluid mixture. The retention of the constituent
by the filter depends upon a mechanical entrapment of solid or liquid
particles because of their relatively large size compared with the
interstices or spaces between individual fibers, elements, strands,
or particles. The retained particles can be removed by brushing,
wiping, shaking, or similar mechanical action.
FLUID MIXTURE
The phrase "fluid mixture" is used
throughout the definitions to mean (a) a gas and solid or liquid
particles entrained therein, (b) a liquid and gas entrained therein, or
(c) a plurality of gases.
GAS
Matter of very low density and viscosity, relatively
great expansion and contraction with changes in pressure and temperature,
that is readily diffusive, with a tendency to expand indefinitely,
with molecules in free movement. The term "gas" includes "vapor" (q.v.).
GASEOUS FLUID MIXTURE
The phrase "gaseous fluid mixture" is
used throughout the definitions to mean (a) a gas and solid or liquid
particles entrained therein or (b) a plurality of gases.
LIQUID SORBENT
A liquid capable of retaining part of a fluid mixture
with which it is contacted. The action in most cases is that of selective
retention (i.e., the sorbent removes only that part of the fluid
mixture for which it has the greatest affinity).
REGENERATION
Restoration of the separatory material to the condition
it was in before the separatory process.
SEPARATING APPARATUS
The entire gas separating means, which consists of all
of the apparatus parts related to gas separation and includes apparatus
parts that are in addition to the separator.
SEPARATING MEDIUM (MEDIA)
Liquid sorbent or means that effects the separation into constituent
parts (e.g., deflector, filter, molecular sieve, sorber, etc.).
(Media has been used in the singular and in the plural.)
SEPARATOR
The portion of the apparatus that consists of a separating medium
and the structure supporting, retaining, or substantially confining
the separating medium.
SOLID SORBENT
A solid sorbent is a solid material which separates a constituent
(e.g., a gas, vapor, etc.) from a fluid mixture containing such
constituents in a "quasi-chemical" manner. The
action in most instances is that of selective retention (i.e., the
sorbent removes only the part of the fluid mixture for which it
has the greatest affinity). The retained constituent cannot be removed
by shaking, brushing, or similar mechanical action, but generally can
be removed by heating, pressure reduction, or use of a stripping
or denuding fluid.
TREATMENT
(a) With respect to the class subject matter, the term
is restricted to reversible and nonchemical changes in physical
characteristics of the fluid mixture or a separated constituent
(e.g., heating, cooling, humidity control, agitating, pressure regulation,
etc.). (b) With respect to the media used to perform the gas separation or
to a material used to condition the fluid mixture for separation,
the term may include chemical preparation, reconditioning, or reaction.
VAPOR
The gaseous state of matter that is liquid or solid under
a temperature of 0°C and 760 mm Hg pressure.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Process in which the separation is regulated by detecting
a characteristic or a change in a characteristic of the process
and by implementing an action in the process based upon the detected
characteristic or change therein.
(1)
Note. In this subclass and the subclasses indented hereunder,
a single means may be used both to detect the characteristic or
the change in the characteristic in the process and to implement
an action in the process based upon the detected characteristic
or change therein. There must be a positive action made by the means
because of the detected characteristic or change therein. An example
is the use of a pressure relief valve in which a certain pressure
must be reached before the valve opens to relieve the high pressure
in the process. Another example is the use of a bimetallic element
in a thermostat in which a certain temperature must be reached before
a switch is tripped in order to control the temperature in the process.
A third example is the use of increased weight on a separating media
because of accumulation of a separated constituent to cause the
separating media to move to a position of nonuse or regeneration.
Excluded from this subclass and the subclasses indented hereunder
are processes in which there is no positive action made by the single means
because of the detected characteristic or change therein. An example
of a process which is excluded and placed below is the flow of liquid
over a baffle once the liquid level reaches the top of the baffle.
Gas Separation: Apparatus,
subclasses 18 through 24for electrical separation apparatus with control means
responsive to sensed condition; subclass 102 for chromatography apparatus
with control means responsive to sensed condition; subclasses 109-114
for solid sorbent apparatus with control means responsive to sensed
condition; subclasses 156-174 for degasifying means with control means
responsive to sensed condition; subclasses 397-412 for gas separation apparatus
with automatic control means for gas or nongaseous constituent discharge;
and subclasses 417-423 for gas separation apparatus with signals,
indicators, measuring, or testing means.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Process in which there is a step including discharge of
an electric current into the fluid mixture or electrifying a fluid
or solid that contacts the fluid mixture.
This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Process in which concentration of a constituent present
in the process or a change therein (e.g., dust, humidity, etc.)
is detected and is used to control some aspect of the process.
This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Process in which temperature or a change therein is detected
and is used to control some aspect of the process.
This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Process in which the presence or frequency of sparking in
the gas phase, often accompanied by short bursts of increasing current
flow or decreasing electrode voltage, is detected and is used to
control some aspect of the process.
This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Process in which current flowing between discharge and collector
electrodes or a change therein is detected and is used to control
some aspect of the process.
This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Process in which voltage applied, either directly to an
electrode or indirectly to the fluid mixture, or a change therein
is detected and is used to control some aspect of the process.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Process in which concentration of a constituent present
in the process or a change therein (e.g., pH, humidity, dust content,
etc.) is detected and is used to control some aspect of the process.
This subclass is indented under subclass 8. Process in which humidity or a change therein is detected
and is used to control some aspect of the process.
This subclass is indented under subclass 8. Process in which the flow of the fluid mixture to a sorber
is stopped or the flow of the fluid mixture is switched to another
sorber based upon the detected concentration or change therein;
or process in which a sorbent is regenerated based upon the detected
concentration or change therein.
This subclass is indented under subclass 8. Process in which flow rate of a sorbent is changed based
upon the detected concentration or change therein.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Process in which temperature or a change therein is detected
and is used to control some aspect of the process.
This subclass is indented under subclass 14. Process in which pressure or a change therein is also detected
and is used to control some aspect of the process.
This subclass is indented under subclass 14. Process in which flow rate of liquid which is added to a
gas is modified based upon the detected temperature or change therein.
This subclass is indented under subclass 14. Process in which the fluid mixture, a separated constituent,
or an apparatus involved in the process is cooled based upon the
detected temperature or change therein.
This subclass is indented under subclass 14. Process in which the fluid mixture, a separated constituent,
or an apparatus involved in the process is heated based upon the
detected temperature or change therein.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Process in which pressure or a change therein is detected
and is used to control some aspect of the process.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Process in which gas flow rate or a change therein is detected
and is used to control some aspect of the process.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Process in which liquid level or a change therein is detected
and is used to control some aspect of the process.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Process in which a characteristic or a change in a characteristic
of the fluid mixture, of a separated constituent, or of apparatus
used in the process is set down for preservation in permanent form
or is indicated by means giving information of an audible or a visual
nature (e.g., alarm, etc.).
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Process in which the time at which an operation occurs is
controlled or the length of time in which an operation is performed
is controlled.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Process in which magnetic lines of force are applied to
a bed of loose particles that contain a magnetizable component.
(1)
Note. The application of magnetic lines of force to a magnetizable
particle bed may be to stabilize the bed, to prevent back-mixing,
or to control porosity of the bed.
Classifying, Separating, and Assorting Solids,
subclasses 38 , 39, 40, 212, and 213-232 for classifying, separating,
and assorting solids using apparatus of the magnetic type.
Liquid Purification or Separation,
subclasses 222 through 223for magnetic apparatus for purification or separation
of a liquid and subclass 695 for processes of purifying or separating
a liquid using magnetic force.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Process in which the separation is effected or enhanced
by the energy of compressional vibratory waves in a fluid medium,
the waves being below, within, or above the audible spectrum.
(1)
Note. Pressure pulses in a fluid generated merely by intermittent
discharge of a gas are not considered to be compressional vibratory
waves under this definition. However, compressional vibratory waves
under this definition may be produced by intermittent discharge
of a gas, as in a siren.
DIFFERENCE IN MOLECULAR VELOCITY, DENSITY, OR MOMENTUM
OF GASES USED:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Process in which the plurality of gases is separated into
constituent gaseous parts by making use of physical differences
in molecular speed, weight, or inertia of the constituent gaseous
parts.
This subclass is indented under subclass 31. Process in which gaseous constituents having different molecular
weights or different gas kinetic cross sections are separated, with
the plurality of gases flowing out of a short tube, usually tapering,
that forms the vent of a hose or pipe in order to effect the separation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 31. Process in which the plurality of gases is separated by
the effect of centrifugal action which causes the gases to assume
a rapid arcuate or circular movement, with this movement causing
the constituents of the mixture to separate into more or less distinct
layers, depending upon the density of the constituents.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Process in which the separation is accomplished by contacting
the fluid mixture with a pumpable mixture of a solid and a liquid.
This subclass is indented under subclass 36. Process in which a halogen (i.e., fluorine (F), chlorine
(Cl), bromine (Br), iodine (I), astatine (At)) containing compound
is removed from gas by contact with a liquid-solid slurry.
COMPRESSING AND INDIRECT COOLING OF GASEOUS FLUID MIXTURE
TO SEPARATE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Process in which the separation of a constituent from a
gaseous fluid mixture is accomplished by extracting heat in an indirect
heat exchanger before, after, or while increasing the pressure on
the gaseous fluid mixture.
(1)
Note. The cooling must not involve details of a refrigeration
process or apparatus. See the class definition for the line between
Class 95 and Class 62.
This subclass is indented under subclass 39. Process in which a substance is added to the gaseous fluid
mixture to prevent a material rise in temperature of the gaseous
fluid mixture by absorbing the heat of compression.
This subclass is indented under subclass 39. Process in which a liquid is used to remove a constituent
from the gaseous fluid mixture (e.g., scrubbing, sorption, etc.).
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Process in which a fluid mixture containing a gas to be
separated contacts a solid, liquid, or gaseous barrier, with the
gas separating because of the differential permeability of the barrier
with respect to the gas.
This subclass is indented under subclass 43. Process in which a plurality of gases containing a gas to
be separated contacts a liquid barrier that is supported or immobilized
in or on a porous medium, with the plurality of gases being separated
because of the differential permeability of the liquid with respect
to the gases.
Gas Separation: Apparatus,
subclass 5 for corresponding apparatus. Patents are not cross-referenced
from Class 96, subclass 5 to this subclass based only on disclosure.
Therefore, relevant disclosures of gas separation processes may
be found in the apparatus area.
This subclass is indented under subclass 43. Process in which a plurality of gases or a mixture of gas
entrained in a liquid contacts a substantially solid surface (e.g.,
semipermeable membrane, etc.) and a gas is separated from another
gas or a gas is separated from the liquid because of the differential
permeability of the surface of the solid with respect to the gases.
(1)
Note. Class 95 will take dissociation of a gas molecule at
the barrier boundary when such dissociation facilitates passage
of the gas through the barrier; the atoms reconvert to the gas molecule
on the downstream side of the barrier. If the dissociation of the
gas occurs away from the barrier and a resulting product diffuses
through the barrier, then the patent will be in Class 423 for an
inorganic gas and in the appropriate organic class for an organic
gas.
Electrolysis: Processes, Compositions Used Therein,
and Methods of Preparing the Compositions,
subclasses 334 through 639 for processes using a solid electrolyte membrane
(SEM) situated between two electrodes positioned to apply external
voltage across the membrane. These membranes are used where the partial
pressure of the gas to be diffused through the membrane on the feed
side of the membrane is lower than that on the permeate side. Molecules
on the feed side of a cell containing a solid electrolyte membrane are
electrochemically dissociated into ions on the cathode. The ions
are then transported across the matrix of the membrane by the applied
voltage and recombined to form molecules on the anode. Class 95
takes the use of a solid electrolyte membrane which functions without
electrodes and without externally applied voltage. These membranes
are used where the partial pressure of the gas to be diffused through
the membrane on the permeate side is lower than that on the feed side.
Electrodeless solid electrolyte membrane cells are operated by maintaining
a pressure on the feed side such that a positive driving force for ion
transport can be achieved in the absence of an externally applied
voltage and power source.
Liquid Purification or Separation,
subclasses 96.2 , 257.2, and 321.6-321.9 for apparatus having membranes
or dialyzers for separating liquids, subclasses 500.21-500.43 for semipermeable
membranes used in the separation of liquids, and subclasses 634-655
for processes of separating a liquid by selective diffusion of a
component of a liquid through a membrane or septum.
Coating Processes,
subclasses 245 through 246for methods of coating a base so that the resulting
product is foraminous or porous, wherein the coating includes openings
or holes which are very small, generally microscopic in size.
Chemistry of Hydrocarbon Compounds,
subclasses 818 through 819 for processes in which a liquid hydrocarbon
is recovered from a liquid mixture containing the hydrocarbon by the
use of selective diffusion through a semipermeable membrane.
This subclass is indented under subclass 45. Process in which gas is separated from a liquid by selective
diffusion of the gas through a substantially solid barrier.
Specialized Metallurgical Processes, Compositions
for Use Therein, Consolidated Metal Powder Compositions, and Loose
Metal Particulate Mixtures,
subclass 405 for processes of removing gas from liquid metal
by use of a gas permeable membrane.
Gas Separation: Apparatus,
subclass 6 for corresponding apparatus. Patents are not cross-referenced
from Class 96, subclass 6 to this subclass based only on disclosure.
Therefore, relevant disclosures of gas separation processes may
be found in the apparatus area.
Liquid Purification or Separation,
subclass 640 for processes of separating a constituent from
a liquid by selective diffusion of the constituent through a membrane
or septum wherein the constituent is not initially present as a
gas in the liquid and passes through the membrane or septum in vapor
phase.
This subclass is indented under subclass 45. Process in which nitrogen (N2) or a
nitrogen containing compound selectively diffuses through a substantially
solid barrier.
This subclass is indented under subclass 45. Process in which a halogen (i.e., fluorine (F), chlorine
(Cl), bromine (Br), iodine (I), astatine (At)) containing compound
selectively diffuses through a substantially solid barrier.
This subclass is indented under subclass 45. Process in which a sulfur (S) containing compound selectively
diffuses through a substantially solid barrier.
This subclass is indented under subclass 45. Process in which carbon dioxide (CO2)
or carbon monoxide (CO) selectively diffuses through a substantially
solid barrier.
This subclass is indented under subclass 55. Process in which hydrogen (H2) selectively diffuses
through a substantially solid barrier that is made of elemental
metal or alloy or contains a layer of elemental metal or alloy.
(1)
Note. The hydrogen (H2) molecule may dissociate
into hydrogen (H) atoms at the surface of the barrier. The atoms
will then diffuse through the barrier and recombine into a hydrogen
(H2) molecule on the downstream side of the
barrier.
Chemistry of Inorganic Compounds,
subclass 658.2 for processes of producing elemental hydrogen (H)
by direct decomposition of a binary compound (e.g., chemical storage,
etc.).
ELECTRIC OR ELECTROSTATIC FIELD (E.G., ELECTROSTATIC PRECIPITATION,
ETC.):
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Process in which an electric current is discharged into
the fluid mixture or the fluid mixture is contacted with a fluid
or solid which has been electrified.
(1)
Note. The separation of the fluid mixture need not be accomplished
directly by the electrical treatment, provided that the overall
process results in separation of the fluid mixture. The electrical
treatment may be for the purpose of causing entrained particles
to become agglomerated for easier removal by other means, such as
filtration or deflection.
(2)
Note. Gas separation processes including the mere application
of electricity to a material contacting the fluid mixture for the
purpose of resistance heating is classified below.
(3)
Note. Processes for separating isotopes are classified based
upon the specific methods used (e.g., the separation of liquid isotopes
by distillation is classified in Class 203, subclass 5; isotope
separation involving chemical reaction brought about by wave energy
is found in Class 204, subclasses 157.2-157.22, etc.).
Gas Separation: Apparatus,
subclasses 15 through 100for apparatus using an electric field to separate
gas constituents. Also, see other collected search class notes regarding
related subject matter.
Chemistry: Electrical and Wave Energy,
subclasses 164 through 179for processes involving gas treatment by chemical
reaction and electrical discharge or chemical change by electrical
discharge, and subclasses 554-573 and 660-674 for similar processes and
apparatus for electrical separation or purification of liquids and
for degasification of liquid aided by electrical discharge involving
the conversion of constituents to other compounds. When such chemical conversion
is in doubt, placement of electrical processes and apparatus for degasifying
liquid is proper for Class 95 or Class 96, respectively.
Classifying, Separating, and Assorting Solids,
subclass 12.2 for a combination process or apparatus of classifying,
separating, and assorting solids including an electrostatic field;
and subclasses 127.1-131 for process and apparatus for classifying,
separating, or assorting solids by an electrostatic field.
Liquid Purification or Separation,
subclass 748 for processes of treating a liquid by directly
subjecting the liquid to an electric field or a current or to a
regular pulsating source of energy. Also, see the search class note
to Class 204.
Radiant Energy,
subclasses 282 through 284for methods of separating certain accelerated ionized
material from similar accelerated ionized material having different
mass-to-electric-charge ratios by use of electrostatic or magnetic
fields.
This subclass is indented under subclass 57. Process which includes adding a solid, gas, or vapor to
the fluid mixture undergoing treatment or separation.
(1)
Note. To come under this definition, the added solid, gas,
or vapor must not be merely a different amount of the same fluid
mixture that is to be separated, but may be a constituent of this
mixture, which may be derived from a previous separation process.
(2)
Note. The addition of solid includes the use of a fluidized
solid particle bed, regardless of whether the solid remains entrained
in the gas after passage through the bed. The use of a stationary particle
bed is not considered to be addition of a solid, and patents in
which a stationary particle bed is used will be found elsewhere
under subclass 57. Also, for the purposes of this subclass, the
added solid, gas, or vapor may include any combination thereof (except for
a different amount of the fluid mixture to be separated, as in (1)
Note), including aerosols.
Gas Separation: Apparatus,
subclass 27 for means to add charged solid or liquid particles
to the gas stream, subclass 52 for vapor or liquid contact apparatus
involving electrical separation, and subclass 74 for gas separation
apparatus including an electrical precipitator and means to treat
or condition the gas before, during, or after precipitation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 58. Process which includes the physical treatment of an electrode
(e.g., by addition of a protective or reactive layer to the electrode
or the removal of collected material from the electrode, etc.).
Gas Separation: Apparatus,
subclasses 28 through 51for electrical separation apparatus with electrode cleaner,
apparatus part flusher or discharger, or wet collector.
This subclass is indented under subclass 58. Process in which the fluid mixture to be separated is heated
or cooled either by or along with the addition of solid, gas, or
vapor.
This subclass is indented under subclass 58. Process in which solid or liquid particles to be separated
from a gas are agglomerated into larger conglomerates either in
the gas phase or on a collecting surface, with the agglomeration being
facilitated by addition of a solid, gas, or vapor to the incoming
fluid mixture.
This subclass is indented under subclass 57. Process which includes methods of separation of the fluid
mixture other than those explicitly connected with an electrical
separation technique.
Gas Separation: Apparatus,
subclass 27 for electrical separation apparatus with means
to add charged liquid or solid particles to the gaseous fluid mixture,
subclass 52 for electrical separation apparatus with means to add
a liquid or vapor to the gaseous fluid mixture, and subclass 55
for electrical separation apparatus with serially arranged nonelectrical
separators.
This subclass is indented under subclass 63. Process in which a liquid is added to a gaseous fluid mixture
before, during, or after electrical treatment either (a) to cause
separation or (b) to condition the gaseous fluid mixture in any
way.
This subclass is indented under subclass 64. Process in which liquid addition is made before the gaseous
fluid mixture is subjected to electrical separation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 65. Process including heating or cooling either as a result
of the liquid addition or as a separate, additional gas treatment.
This subclass is indented under subclass 63. Process which includes removal of collected material from
or regeneration of a nonelectrical gas separating means, such as
a particulate bed filter or deflector.
Gas Separation,
subclasses 282 through 305for gas separating apparatus with nonliquid cleaning
means for separating media, and subclass 431 for means contacting
an apparatus part with a fluid for discharge of material residue.
This subclass is indented under subclass 63. Process in which at least one nonelectrical separating step
is performed on the fluid mixture before electric or electrostatic
treatment.
Gas Separation: Apparatus,
subclasses 55 through 59for electrical separation apparatus with serially arranged
diverse separators; in particular, subclass 57 for such apparatus preceded
by a nonelectrical separator.
This subclass is indented under subclass 63. Process in which at least one nonelectrical separating step
is performed on the fluid mixture after electric or electrostatic
treatment.
This subclass is indented under subclass 57. Process in which a liquid is added to a gaseous fluid mixture
undergoing treatment, but does not directly result in the separation
of gas constituents.
through 66, for processes involving contacting a gaseous fluid
mixture with a liquid in a diverse type operation (in which gas
constituents are also separated by nonelectrical methods, such as
directly results from liquid addition).
Gas Separation: Apparatus,
subclass 52 for corresponding electrical field separation apparatus
with means to add liquid or vapor to the gas and subclasses 243-371
for gas separation apparatus with gas and liquid contact means.
This subclass is indented under subclass 57. Process which includes cleaning or removing of a deposited
constituent from an electrical element provided to attract and retain
the constituent.
This subclass is indented under subclass 74. Process in which the cleaning of the element is performed
by the application of mechanical contacting or jarring means to
remove retained material.
Gas Separation: Apparatus,
subclasses 32 through 38for corresponding apparatus with vibrating means, and
subclass 51 for corresponding apparatus with scraping means.
This subclass is indented under subclass 57. Process in which an element discharging electricity into
the fluid mixture or collecting deposits therefrom continually moves
during operation.
Gas Separation: Apparatus,
subclasses 39 through 42for electrical separation apparatus with movably mounted
electrode assembly for cleaning purposes and subclass 94 for electrode
supporting means permitting movement thereof during use or for orientation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 57. Process in which a restriction or redirection of gas flow
is caused by inclusion of a baffle, deflector, or specially shaped
electrode for the purpose of such restriction.
Gas Separation: Apparatus,
subclasses 60 through 73for corresponding apparatus with gas flow distribution
means, subclasses 95-97 for apparatus with specific type or shape of
discharge electrode, and subclasses 98-100 for specific collector
means.
This subclass is indented under subclass 57. Process in which a gaseous fluid mixture passes through
two or more distinct regions or units, such regions providing either
multiple identical gas treatments or plural diverse treatments for
removal of entrained particles.
(1)
Note. The stages or zones may be arranged in series or in
parallel.
(2)
Note. A single stage with two or more regions or zones of
differing applied voltage is included under this definition.
Gas Separation: Apparatus,
subclasses 55 through 59for electrical separation apparatus with serial diverse
separators and subclasses 75-79 for electrical separation apparatus with
diverse or serially distinct electrical fields.
This subclass is indented under subclass 79. Process involving the application of a voltage which fluctuates
with time during treatment of the gaseous fluid mixture.
This subclass is indented under subclass 57. Process involving the application of a voltage which fluctuates
with time during treatment of the gaseous fluid mixture.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Process in which (a) the plurality of gases to be separated
enters a column to contact a liquid, known as the "stationary
liquid phase," supported by a base of solid material to
successively sorb therein the different gases of the mixture or
(b) the plurality of gases to be separated enters a column to contact
a solid sorbent to successively sorb thereon the different gases of
the mixture with or without subsequently successively eluting or
displacing the sorbed gases in (a) or (b) with a gas which is inert
with respect to the sorbed gases and sorbent; and subcombinations
of the processes in (a) and (b) that do not result in separation
when the subcombinations are not provided for elsewhere.
(1)
Note. The plurality of gases is usually allowed to flow slowly
through a column of particulate sorbent. Different gases will pass
at different speeds through the column and will eventually be separated into
zones. The zones can be eluted by passing an inert gas through the
column and collecting the various fractions.
(2)
Note. When a liquid is supported by a base of solid material
for the separation of the mixture of gases, the process is known
as "gas-liquid chromatography" or "GLC." If
liquid is not present, the process is known as "gas-solid
chromatography." Other phrases used when referring to chromatography
are "gas-chromatography" or "GC," "vapor-phase chromatography" or "VPC," "gas-liquid partition
chromatography," "vapor fractometry," "capillary
column gas chromatography" or "CC-GC," and "partition chromatography."
(3)
Note. Sometimes a "carrier" gas is mixed
with or used to propel the plurality of gases to be separated through
the chromatography column.
(4)
Note. The plurality of gases to be separated may be obtained
by vaporizing a liquid. The liquid that is injected into the chromatography
column is vaporized, and then the resulting vapors are separated
in the chromatography column.
Liquid Purification or Separation,
subclasses 656 through 694and 198.2-198.3 for processes and apparatus of
liquid purification or separation involving chromatography.
Chemistry: Analytical and Immunological Testing,
subclasses 161 through 162for processes which involve a chemical reaction
for analytical testing including chromatography and for processes
of analysis of the chemical properties of a sample including chromatography.
This subclass is indented under subclass 82. Process in which the base of solid material supporting the
stationary liquid phase as a thin film is the inner surface of a
capillary tube or column.
Gas Separation: Apparatus,
subclass 107 for corresponding apparatus. Patents are not cross-referenced
from Class 96, subclass 107 to this subclass based only on disclosure.
Therefore, relevant disclosures to gas separation processes may
be found in the apparatus area.
This subclass is indented under subclass 82. Process in which the plurality of gases, a liquid, a separated
constituent, or an apparatus involved in the process is heated or
cooled (e.g., the column may be heated in order to degas the solid
sorbent or a gas may be heated or cooled, etc.).
This subclass is indented under subclass 82. Process in which a specified packing or sorbent material
(e.g., sorbent compositions, particle size, etc.) is used.
This subclass is indented under subclass 82. Process in which a method of injecting the plurality of
gases or a liquid into the chromatography column is claimed, per
se, without gas separation.
Fluent Material Handling, With Receiver or Receiver
Coacting Means, appropriate subclasses for processes and apparatus
for the transfer of fluent material through a flow confining system,
the source and receiver parts of which are normally separable.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Process in which a solid sorbent is used to retain on its
internal or external surfaces a constituent of the fluid mixture
passing in contact therewith.
(1)
Note. A solid sorbent is a solid material which separates
a constituent (e.g., a gas, vapor, etc.) from a fluid mixture containing
such constituents in a "quasi-chemical" manner.
The action in most instances is that of selective retention (i.e.,
the sorbent removes only the part of the fluid mixture for which
it has the greatest affinity). The retained constituent cannot be
removed by shaking, brushing, or similar mechanical action, but
generally can be removed by heating, pressure reduction, or use
of a stripping or denuding fluid. A filter (particulate solids
or other) has no particular "chemical" affinity
for a constituent of a fluid mixture. The separation in the case
of a filter depends on a mechanical entrapment of solid or liquid
particles because of their relatively large size compared with the
interstices or spaces between individual elements of the filter.
The retained particles can be removed by brushing, wiping, shaking,
or similar mechanical action.
(2)
Note. "Absorption" is the holding of a constituent
by cohesion or capillary action in the pores of a solid. "Adsorption" is
the ability of a sorbent to hold or concentrate gases, liquids,
or dissolved substances upon its surface.
(3)
Note. The desorption of a solid sorbent, which may appear
in one of the subclasses below, must be before or after its use
as a sorbent, as claimed. The mere treatment of a solid sorbent
to drive off the fluid sorbed thereon or therein is proper subject
matter for Class 502. See search class note below.
(4)
Note. This subclass and the subclasses indented hereunder
will take the degasification of a liquid by use of a solid sorbent.
for processes using compressing and cooling of a
fluid mixture to separate a constituent from the mixture in addition
to using a solid sorbent to separate a constituent from the gas.
Distillation: Processes, Separatory,
subclass 41 for a separatory distillation process including
the step of passing the produced vapor through a solid sorbent.
Chemistry of Inorganic Compounds,
subclass 658.2 for processes of producing elemental hydrogen (H)
by direct decomposition of a binary compound (e.g., chemical storage,
etc.).
Chemistry: Analytical and Immunological Testing,
subclass 167 for processes wherein the basis for analysis is
an optical result of a chemical reaction that is measured mechanically
or visually, including solid sorption of a gas.
Catalyst, Solid Sorbent, or Support Therefor:
Product or Process of Making,
subclasses 20 through 56for regenerating or rehabilitating solid sorbent
compositions, per se, subclasses 60-87 for zeolite compositions and
for processes of making zeolite compositions, and subclasses 400-438 for
other solid sorbent compositions and for processes of making solid
sorbent compositions. Class 95 will take the combination of gas
separation using a solid sorbent composition and regenerating or
rehabilitating the solid sorbent composition.
Chemistry of Hydrocarbon Compounds,
subclasses 820 through 831for processes in which a mixture of a hydrocarbon
compound with another substance is treated to recover that same
compound in a more usable condition, that is, a purer or more desirable
condition, by a treatment which comprises separating the hydrocarbon
from the other substance by contact with a solid sorbent.
This subclass is indented under subclass 90. Process in which a gaseous fluid mixture is contacted by
a liquid in addition to a solid sorbent in order to remove a gas,
solid, or liquid therefrom.
This subclass is indented under subclass 92. Process in which a gas is used to purge the constituent
separated from the solid sorbent or a gas is used to regenerate
the solid sorbent.
This subclass is indented under subclass 92. Process in which (a) the contact liquid is recirculated
for further contact with the fluid mixture or a portion thereof
or (b) the contact liquid is used in another step of the process
for further contact with the fluid mixture or a portion thereof.
This subclass is indented under subclass 90. Process in which pressure over a mass of solid sorbent is
decreased in order to separate from the solid sorbent the constituent
sorbed in the gas separation process.
This subclass is indented under subclass 95. Process in which there is more than one step of increasing
or decreasing the pressure on the solid sorbent.
This subclass is indented under subclass 96. Process in which a gas is used to purge the constituent
separated from the solid sorbent or a gas is used to regenerate
the solid sorbent.
This subclass is indented under subclass 97. Process in which the sweep gas is the gaseous fluid mixture
or a portion thereof, before or after being treated or separated.
This subclass is indented under subclass 100. Process in which a step of pressure reduction is accomplished
by using a pressure below that of the atmosphere.
This subclass is indented under subclass 98. Process in which a step of pressure reduction is accomplished
by using a pressure below that of the atmosphere.
This subclass is indented under subclass 95. Process in which a gas is used to purge the constituent
separated from the sorbent or a gas is used to regenerate the solid
sorbent.
This subclass is indented under subclass 104. Process in which the sweep gas is the gaseous fluid mixture
or a portion thereof, before or after being treated or separated.
This subclass is indented under subclass 90. Process in which the solid sorbent is moved from one zone
to another by moving a housing, is moved from one zone to another
in a stationary housing, or is blown about or fluidized by a gas
in a housing.
(1)
Note. The zones need not all be for sorbing the gas or for
desorbing the solid sorbent; it is sufficient that the solid sorbent be
moved from one zone to another, in each of which zones the solid
sorbent either is treated or is used to treat.
This subclass is indented under subclass 108. Process in which the solid sorbent is moved from one zone
to another in a stationary housing by the forces of gravity.
This subclass is indented under subclass 107. Process in which the solid sorbent is moved from one zone
to another in a stationary housing by the forces of gravity.
This subclass is indented under subclass 110. Process in which a gas is used to purge a constituent separated
from the solid sorbent or a gas is used to regenerate the solid
sorbent.
This subclass is indented under subclass 107. Process in which the housing containing a fixed solid sorbent
turns on its axis in order to move the solid sorbent from one treatment zone
to another or a plurality of housings is turned about a central
axis to the housings to place a housing in a position of use or
nonuse or regeneration.
This subclass is indented under subclass 90. Process in which there is more than one step of heating
or cooling the solid sorbent or the gaseous fluid mixture or constituent
thereof through a wall before or after separation.
(1)
Note. The heat transfer steps must be part of a larger process
containing subject matter for Class 95, such as will be found in
this and the indented subclass where the heat transfer steps are
combined with sorption of a constituent from a gas on a solid sorbent.
If the only separation involved is conducted by the heat transfer
steps, then classification in Class 165 is proper.
Heat Exchange,
subclasses 58 through 66and 201-265 for processes of heating and cooling
where only the indirect heat exchange
causes the separation of a constituent from a gas.
This subclass is indented under subclass 90. Process in which an inorganic gas or liquid particle (e.g.,
vapor, mist, etc.) is sorbed from the plurality of gases or the
gas with entrained liquid particles.
(1)
Note. For purposes of classification in this area, "inorganic" compounds
or elements are those that would fall within the definition of Class
423. For example, the cyanides (CN joined only to a metal or to
hydrogen) and the carbon oxides are found in the indented subclasses.
This subclass is indented under subclass 117. Process in which the gas is passed through a plurality of
discrete or diverse separating stages or steps, with the solid sorbent
being the same or a different solid sorbent in each step of the
process.
This subclass is indented under subclass 121. Process in which a gas is used to purge the water separated
from the solid sorbent or a gas is used to regenerate the solid
sorbent.
This subclass is indented under subclass 122. Process in which there is a positive step of raising the
temperature of the sweep gas above the ambient temperature or the
sweep gas is already at a temperature above the ambient temperature.
This subclass is indented under subclass 116. Process in which a noble gas (i.e., helium (He), neon (Ne),
argon (Ar), krypton (Kr), xenon (Xe), or radon (Rn)) is sorbed.
This subclass is indented under subclass 116. Process in which a halogen (i.e., fluorine (F), chlorine
(Cl), bromine (Br), iodine (I), astatine (At)) or a halogen containing
compound is sorbed.
This subclass is indented under subclass 90. Process in which an organic gas or liquid particle (e.g.,
vapor, mist, etc.) is sorbed from the plurality of gases or the
gas with entrained liquid particles.
(1)
Note. For purposes of classification in this area, "organic" compounds
are those that would fall within the definitions of Class 260.
This subclass is indented under subclass 141. Process in which a halogen containing (i.e., fluorine (F),
chlorine (Cl), bromine (Br), iodine (I), astatine (At)) compound
(e.g., phosgene, etc.) is sorbed.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Process in which the fluid mixture is contacted with a liquid.
(1)
Note. The contact of the fluid mixture with a liquid generally
results in separation of a gas, solid particles, or liquid particles
from a gaseous fluid mixture (e.g., sorption, scrubbing, etc.).
The contact of the fluid mixture with a liquid does not have to
cause separation of the mixture, however, but may be used for other
reasons (e.g., to humidify a gas, etc.). As long as there is separation
of the fluid mixture by some process of this class along with the
contacting of the mixture with a liquid for reasons other than separation,
the patent will be placed here (e.g., filtration plus humidification, etc.).
Gas Separation: Apparatus,
subclasses 243 through 371for gas separation apparatus using gas and liquid contact
means combined with means to further handle the process constituents
before, during, or after separation. See the class line to Class
261 in Section III, References to Other Classes, of this class for
further details about gas and liquid contact apparatus and processes.
Gas and Liquid Contact Apparatus, appropriate subclassesfor gas and liquid contact apparatus, per se, with
or without separation, and for gas and liquid contact processes,
per se, without separation (e.g., humidification, etc.). See the
class line to Class 261 in Section III, References to Other Classes
of this class for further details about gas and liquid contact apparatus and
processes.
Chemistry: Analytical and Immunological Testing,
subclass 168 for processes wherein the basis for analysis is
an optical result of a chemical reaction that is measured mechanically
or visually, including liquid sorption of a gas.
Chemistry of Hydrocarbon Compounds,
subclasses 833 through 868 for processes in which a mixture of a hydrocarbon
compound with another substance is treated to recover that same
compound in a more usable condition, that is, a purer or more desirable
condition, by a treatment which comprises separating the hydrocarbon
from the other substance by addition of an extraneous agent (e.g., solvent,
etc.).
This subclass is indented under subclass 149. Process in which a frothy or sudslike dispersion of gas
in the contact liquid is formed to aid in the separation.
(1)
Note. When foam is intentionally formed, it will be assumed
to aid in the separation unless otherwise stated.
Colloid Systems and Wetting Agents; Subcombinations
Thereof; Processes of Making, Stabilizing, Breaking, or Inhibiting, appropriate subclasses for colloid systems or agents for
such systems or making or stabilizing such systems or agents (
subclasses 10-19 for foaming), appropriate subclasses for processes
of or compositions for or subcombination compositions for the breaking
of or inhibiting of colloid systems (subclasses 115-134 for defoaming);
in each instance, when generically claimed or when there is no hierarchically
superior provision in the USPC for the specifically claimed art.
This subclass is indented under subclass 149. Process in which the gaseous fluid mixture is contacted
with the liquid by mechanically stirring a liquid body or mass or
by mechanically disturbing the surface of a liquid body or mass in
such a way that the liquid is flung into the mixture.
This subclass is indented under subclass 149. Process in which solid particles are removed from a gas
by a contact liquid that contains an agent that causes the solid
particles to agglomerate.
(1)
Note. These agents are known as "coagulating" agents, "flocculating" agents,
or "flocculent" materials.
Colloid Systems and Wetting Agents; Subcombinations
Thereof; Processes of Making, Stabilizing, Breaking, or Inhibiting,
subclasses 98 through 112for colloid systems of continuous or semicontinuous
solid phase with discontinuous liquid phase (gels, pastes, flocs,
coagulates) or agents for such systems or making or stabilizing
such systems or agents, when generically claimed or when there is
no hierarchically superior provision in the USPC for the specifically
claimed art.
This subclass is indented under subclass 149. Process in which the contact liquid contains an agent that
prevents formation of a substance containing water combined in the
molecular form (e.g., agent prevents formation of methane hydrate:
CH4-7H2O, ethane hydrate: C2H6-8H2O,
chlorine hydrate: Cl2-8H2O,
etc.).
This subclass is indented under subclass 149. Process in which the contact liquid contains an agent that
reduces the surface tension of the contact liquid.
(1)
Note. These agents are known as "surfactants," "wetting" agents,
or "surface-active" substances.
This subclass is indented under subclass 149. Process in which the contact liquid contains an agent that
either (a) resolves or breaks a frothy or sudslike dispersion that
was formed during the liquid-gas contact into separate fluid phases or
(b) prevents formation of a frothy or sudslike dispersion during
the liquid-gas contact.
Colloid Systems and Wetting Agents; Subcombinations
Thereof; Processes of Making, Stabilizing, Breaking, or Inhibiting,
subclasses 115 through 134for processes of or compositions for or subcombination
compositions for the breaking of or inhibiting of foam colloid systems,
when generically claimed or when there is no hierarchically superior
provision in the USPC for the specifically claimed art.
This subclass is indented under subclass 149. Process in which a gas is removed from a liquid.
(1)
Note. Generally, the patents in this subclass and the subclasses
indented hereunder involve contacting a plurality of gases, with
or without solid or liquid particles entrained therein, with a liquid
in order to sorb or remove a gas or gases from the plurality of
gases, allowing the remaining gas or gases to pass out of contact
with the liquid. The liquid with gas entrained therein then is treated
to remove the sorbed gas. The removal may be for regenerating the
liquid for further use or may be for obtaining the sorbed gas. In
addition, this area takes processes in which the degasification
of a liquid occurs first and the removed gas is subjected to a liquid
contacting step (see subclass 158).
(2)
Note. In order for a patent to be placed here, the gas sorbed
by a liquid from a plurality of gases and removed from the liquid
must be normally gaseous at a temperature of 0°C and a
pressure of 760 mm Hg (e.g., hydrogen sulfide (H2S), carbon
monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), ethane
(C2H6), ammonia (NH3), etc.).
If, however, a constituent is at a temperature above its boiling
temperature for a particular pressure, then the constituent is presumed
to be a gas and the patent is placed here when the constituent is
sorbed as a gas by a liquid, remains in gaseous phase in the liquid, and
is removed from the liquid as a gas. The C4 hydrocarbons,
which have boiling points above and below a temperature of 0°C,
are classified according to their individual boiling points in subclasses
149-240 (e.g., butane with a boiling point of -0.5°C at
760 mm Hg pressure is a gas at a temperature of 0°C and
760 mm Hg pressure; whereas 1,2-butadiene with a boiling point of
10.8°C at 760 mm Hg pressure is a liquid at a temperature
of 0°C and 760 mm Hg pressure). This handling of the C4 hydrocarbons
is in contrast to that of Class 203, in which all of the C4 hydrocarbons are
arbitrarily classified as liquids at a temperature of 0°C
and 760 mm Hg pressure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 156. Process in which a frothy or sudslike dispersion that was
formed during the liquid-gas contact or was present before the liquid-gas contact
is resolved or broken into separate fluid phases.
Colloid Systems and Wetting Agents; Subcombinations
Thereof; Processes of Making, Stabilizing, Breaking, or Inhibiting,
subclasses 115 through 134for processes of or compositions for or subcombination
compositions for the breaking of or inhibiting of foam colloid systems,
when generically claimed or when there is no hierarchically superior
provision in the USPC for the specifically claimed art.
This subclass is indented under subclass 156. Process in which a liquid with gas entrained therein is
degassed and the removed gas is then contacted with a liquid.
This subclass is indented under subclass 156. Process in which the gas is removed from the contact liquid
by passing a gas through or in contact with the contact liquid.
This subclass is indented under subclass 159. Process in which the pressure acting on the contact liquid
is decreased.
(1)
Note. The pressure reduction may be used in a separate step
in order to remove gas from the contact liquid in addition to the
step of removing gas from the contact liquid by stripping with gas,
or the pressure reduction may be used in order to aid the removal
by stripping with gas.
This subclass is indented under subclass 160. Process in which the contact liquid or a gas is heated.
(1)
Note. The heating may be used in a separate step in order
to remove gas from the contact liquid in addition to another step of
removing gas from the contact liquid, or the heating may be used
in order to aid the removal by stripping with gas or by reduction
of pressure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 160. Process in which (a) the contact liquid is recirculated
for further contact with the fluid mixture or a portion thereof
or (b) the contact liquid is used in another step of the process.
This subclass is indented under subclass 160. Process in which the stripping gas is the gaseous fluid
mixture or a portion thereof, before or after being treated or separated.
This subclass is indented under subclass 159. Process in which the contact liquid or a gas is heated.
(1)
Note. The heating may be used in a separate step in order
to remove gas from the liquid in addition to the step of removing gas
from the liquid by stripping with gas, or the heating may be used
in order to aid the removal by stripping with gas.
This subclass is indented under subclass 165. Process in which (a) the contact liquid is recirculated
for further contact with the fluid mixture or a portion thereof
or (b) the contact liquid is used in another step of the process.
This subclass is indented under subclass 165. Process in which a constituent of the contact liquid is
gasified and this constituent removes another gas from the contact
liquid.
This subclass is indented under subclass 159. Process in which (a) the contact liquid is recirculated
for further contact with the fluid mixture or a portion thereof
or (b) the contact liquid is used in another step of the process.
This subclass is indented under subclass 159. Process in which the stripping gas is specified as being
inert or is one of the following gases: helium (He), neon (Ne),
argon (Ar), krypton (Kr), xenon (Xe), radon (Rn), nitrogen (N2),
or carbon dioxide (CO2).
This subclass is indented under subclass 156. Process in which the gas is removed from the contact liquid
by decreasing the pressure acting on the contact liquid.
This subclass is indented under subclass 172. Process in which the contact liquid or a gas is heated.
(1)
Note. The heating may be used in a separate step in order
to remove gas from the liquid in addition to the step of removing gas
from the liquid by reduction of pressure, or the heating may be
used in order to aid the removal by reduction of pressure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 173. Process in which (a) the contact liquid is recirculated
for further contact with the fluid mixture or a portion thereof
or (b) the contact liquid is used in another step of the process.
This subclass is indented under subclass 172. Process in which the step of pressure reduction is accomplished
by using a pressure below that of the atmosphere.
This subclass is indented under subclass 172. Process in which the gas removed from the contact liquid
is recirculated to the fluid mixture for further contact with liquid.
This subclass is indented under subclass 172. Process in which (a) the contact liquid is recirculated
for further contact with the fluid mixture or a portion thereof
or (b) the contact liquid is used in another step of the process.
This subclass is indented under subclass 178. Process in which (a) the contact liquid is recirculated
for further contact with the fluid mixture or a portion thereof
or (b) the contact liquid is used in another step of the process.
This subclass is indented under subclass 178. Process in which a gaseous sulfur (S) compound is sorbed
by the contact liquid and then is removed from the contact liquid
by heating.
This subclass is indented under subclass 178. Process in which a gaseous halogen compound (i.e., a compound
with fluorine (F), chlorine (Cl), bromine (Br), iodine (I), astatine
(At)) is sorbed by the contact liquid and then is removed from the
contact liquid by heating.
This subclass is indented under subclass 178. Process in which carbon dioxide (CO2)
is sorbed by the contact liquid and then is removed from the contact
liquid by heating.
This subclass is indented under subclass 178. Process in which a gaseous organic compound is sorbed by
the contact liquid and then is removed from the contact liquid by
heating.
This subclass is indented under subclass 156. Process in which the gas is removed from the contact liquid
by mixing, stirring, or turbulating by contact with a solid member
or the flow path of the contact liquid is altered.
This subclass is indented under subclass 156. Process in which (a) the contact liquid is recirculated
for further contact with the fluid mixture or a portion thereof
or (b) the contact liquid is used in another step of the process.
This subclass is indented under subclass 149. Process in which (a) the contact liquid is recirculated
for further contact with the fluid mixture or a portion thereof
or (b) the contact liquid is used in another step of the process
for further contact with the fluid mixture or a portion thereof.
(1)
Note. The recycled or reused contact liquid may have been
regenerated or it may be a mixture with the removed constituent.
This subclass is indented under subclass 187. Process in which the contact liquid is recycled or reused
after another liquid constituent is removed from the contact liquid.
(1)
Note. The liquid removed from the contact liquid may have
been originally present as liquid particles entrained in a gas,
or the liquid removed may have been originally present as vapors
as part of a plurality of gases, in which case the vapors would
have condensed to liquid because of the liquid contact.
(2)
Note. In order for a patent to be placed here, the vapors
sorbed by a liquid from a plurality of gases and removed from the
liquid must be normally liquid at a temperature of 0°C
and a pressure of 760 mm Hg and the vapors must have condensed to
liquid (e.g., methanol (CH3OH), ethanol (C2H5OH),
etc.).
This subclass is indented under subclass 188. Process in which (a) a liquid extractant is mixed with the
contact liquid in order to cause separation of a solute from the
contact liquid and then the liquid extractant with the removed solute
is separated from the contact liquid or (b) a compound that forms
a mixture of constant boiling point with a solute in the contact liquid
is added to the contact liquid and then the azeotropic mixture is
separated from the contact liquid.
Liquid Purification or Separation,
subclass 634 for processes, per se, in which a dissolved or
suspended constituent of a liquid is preferentially dissolved or
dispersed into a second liquid.
This subclass is indented under subclass 188. Process in which the liquid constituent is removed from
the contact liquid by passing a gas through or in contact with the
contact liquid.
for liquid contacting and separation of a liquid
constituent from the contact liquid by stripping with gas without recycle
or reuse of the contact liquid.
This subclass is indented under subclass 188. Process in which the liquid constituent is removed from
the contact liquid by decreasing the pressure acting on the contact
liquid.
for liquid contacting and separation of a liquid
constituent from the contact liquid by reduction of pressure without
recycle or reuse of the contact liquid.
This subclass is indented under subclass 188. Process in which the liquid constituent is removed from
the contact liquid by heating the contact liquid (e.g., fractional
distillation, etc.).
This subclass is indented under subclass 187. Process in which the contact liquid is recycled or reused
after a solid is removed from the contact liquid.
This subclass is indented under subclass 195. Process in which the contact liquid containing the solid
to be removed is passed through a foraminous or porous mass which
separates the solid from the liquid by entrapment and retention
while permitting the liquid to pass through.
This subclass is indented under subclass 195. Process in which the solid settles to the bottom of a mass
of the contact liquid in a settling tank or the solid rises to the
top of a mass of the contact liquid in a flotation tank due to the
difference in density of the solid and the contact liquid, with
the layer of the contact liquid containing the solid being separated
from the remainder of the mass of contact liquid.
This subclass is indented under subclass 187. Process in which the gas and liquid after contact impinge
on a surface to effect an abrupt change in direction of the gas-liquid
mixture or to guide the gas-liquid mixture to cause the liquid to
drop out and remain behind while the gas flows on.
This subclass is indented under subclass 187. Process in which liquid and gaseous fluid mixture contact
is effected in more than one step or zone in series.
Gas Separation: Apparatus,
subclasses 267 through 280 for gas separation apparatus with gas and liquid contact
means having diverse means for adding the liquid.
This subclass is indented under subclass 149. Process in which the gaseous fluid mixture or a separated
gaseous constituent is recirculated for further contact with the
liquid.
This subclass is indented under subclass 149. Process in which a liquid constituent is removed from the
contact liquid.
(1)
Note. The liquid removed from the contact liquid may have
been originally present as liquid particles entrained in a gas,
or the liquid removed may have been originally present as vapors
as part of a plurality of gases, in which case the vapors would
have condensed to liquid because of the liquid contact.
(2)
Note. In order for a patent to be placed here, the vapors
sorbed by a liquid from a plurality of gases and removed from the
liquid must be normally liquid at a temperature of 0°C
and a pressure of 760 mm Hg and the vapors must have condensed to
liquid (e.g., methanol (CH3OH), ethanol (C2H5OH),
etc.).
This subclass is indented under subclass 206. Process in which the liquid constituent is removed from
the contact liquid by passing a gas through or in contact with the
contact liquid.
for liquid contacting and separation of a liquid
constituent from the contact liquid by stripping with gas with recycle
or reuse of the contact liquid.
This subclass is indented under subclass 206. Process in which the liquid constituent is removed from
the contact liquid by decreasing the pressure acting on the contact
liquid.
for liquid contacting and separation of a liquid
constituent from the contact liquid by reduction of pressure with recycle
or reuse of the contact liquid.
This subclass is indented under subclass 206. Process in which the liquid constituent is removed from
the contact liquid by heating the contact liquid (e.g., fractional
distillation, etc.).
through 194, for liquid contacting and separation of a liquid
constituent from the contact liquid by heating with recycle or reuse
of the contact liquid.
This subclass is indented under subclass 149. Process in which the contact between the gaseous fluid mixture
and the liquid takes place on a material which serves to increase
the area for contact.
Gas Separation: Apparatus,
subclasses 290 through 300 for gas separation apparatus in which gas and
liquid contact takes place on particulate media, shaped packing
elements, or porous media.
This subclass is indented under subclass 210. Process in which the surface extending mass consists of
(a) a plurality of small, discrete solids (e.g., particulate bed,
etc.), (b) a mass of slender, elongated material (e.g., a mass of wicklike
or threadlike material, etc.), or (c) a mass of randomly oriented
or positioned elements which may be molded, machined, or formed,
that possess specific advantages of surface availability for gas
and liquid contacting (e.g., Raschig rings, Berl saddles, Intalox saddles,
Pall rings, etc.).
Gas and Liquid Contact Apparatus,
subclasses 94 through 99for apparatus specially adapted to produce an intimate
contact between gases and liquids including a stationary porous mass
of material (not a sheet). See also digest 72 for packing elements.
This subclass is indented under subclass 211. Process in which the liquid or the separated constituent
is removed from the particulate media, fibrous media, or packing
elements.
This subclass is indented under subclass 210. Process in which the surface extending mass has one or more
openings through which the gaseous fluid mixture or liquid passes
in order to increase the contact of the gas with the liquid (e.g.,
use of perforated plates, bubble cap trays, mesh screens, parallel
wires, parallel bars, etc.).
Gas and Liquid Contact Apparatus,
subclasses 108 through 114.5for apparatus specially adapted to produce an intimate
contact between gases and liquids including stationary baffles over
which the liquids flow in contact with gases. See particularly subclass
113 for perforated baffles and subclass 114.2 for apparatus utilizing
bubble caps.
This subclass is indented under subclass 149. Process in which a gas and solid or liquid particles entrained
therein is passed through a foraminous or porous mass which separates
the solid or liquid particles from the gas by entrapment and retention
while permitting the gaseous or vaporous constituents to pass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 149. Process in which the gaseous fluid mixture, liquid, or the
gaseous fluid mixture and liquid after contact (a) are impinged
on a solid or liquid mass and the direction of flow is changed because
of the impinging on the solid or liquid mass or (b) are contacted
by a gas stream to effect an abrupt change in direction of flow.
(1)
Note. The deflection may or may not cause separation of a
constituent from the gaseous fluid mixture.
This subclass is indented under subclass 216. Process in which the liquid, gaseous fluid mixture, or gas-liquid
mixture rotates or spins around an axis through 360° in
an apparatus that does not move to cause the rotating or spinning.
This subclass is indented under subclass 219. Process in which the gaseous fluid mixture, a separated
constituent, the contact liquid, or apparatus involved in the process
is heated or cooled.
This subclass is indented under subclass 216. Process in which the deflection of the gaseous fluid mixture,
liquid, or the gaseous fluid mixture and liquid after contact occurs
in more than one step or zone in series.
Gas Separation: Apparatus,
subclasses 267 through 280for gas separation apparatus with gas and liquid contact
means having diverse means for adding the liquid.
This subclass is indented under subclass 221. Process in which two or more discrete deflectors are arranged
one downstream of the other, at least two of the deflectors being
of differing types.
Gas Separation: Apparatus,
subclasses 267 through 280for gas separation apparatus with gas and liquid contact
means having diverse means for adding the liquid.
This subclass is indented under subclass 223. Process in which the fluid mixture is treated in each zone
or stage with liquid which has been finely dispersed.
This subclass is indented under subclass 224. Process in which the fluid mixture, a separated constituent,
the contact liquid, or apparatus involved in the process is heated
or cooled.
This subclass is indented under subclass 149. Process in which the gaseous fluid mixture to be treated
(a) impinges onto the top layer of a liquid contained in a reservoir
or (b) is discharged beneath the top layer of a liquid.
Gas and Liquid Contact Apparatus,
subclasses 121.1 through 124for devices specially adapted to produce an intimate
contact between gases and liquids by means that discharges gas beneath
the surface of the liquid.
This subclass is indented under subclass 149. Process in which the fluid mixture, a separated constituent,
the contact liquid, or apparatus involved in the process is heated.
This subclass is indented under subclass 149. Process in which the fluid mixture, a separated constituent,
the contact liquid, or apparatus involved in the process is cooled.
This subclass is indented under subclass 149. Process in which an inorganic gas, liquid particle, or solid
particle is separated from the plurality of gases or the gas with
entrained liquid or solid particles by the contact with a liquid.
(1)
Note. For purposes of classification in this area, "inorganic" compounds
or elements are those that would fall within the definition of Class
423. For example, the cyanides (CN joined only to a metal or to
hydrogen) and the carbon oxides are found in the indented subclasses.
This subclass is indented under subclass 230. Process in which a halogen (i.e., fluorine (F), chlorine
(Cl), bromine (Br), iodine (I), astatine (At)) or a halogen containing
compound is separated.
This subclass is indented under subclass 149. Process in which an organic gas, liquid particle, or solid
particle is separated from the plurality of gases or the gas with
entrained liquid or solid particles by the contact with a liquid.
(1)
Note. For purposes of classification in this area, "organic" compounds
are those that would fall within the definitions of Class 260.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Process in which a gas is removed from a liquid.
(1)
Note. In order for a patent to be placed here, the gas removed
from the liquid must be normally gaseous at a temperature of 0°C
and a pressure of 760 mm Hg (e.g., hydrogen sulfide (H2S),
carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), ethane
(C2H6), ammonia (NH3),
etc.). If, however, a constituent is at a temperature above its
boiling temperature for a particular pressure, then the constituent is
presumed to be a gas, and a patent to a process for removing the
constituent will be placed here when the constituent is initially
present in gaseous phase in the liquid and is removed from the liquid
as a gas.
(2)
Note. The removal of a volatile organic compound (e.g., ethanol
(C2H5OH), gasoline, etc.)
from a liquid is not taken to be degasification of a liquid for
Class 95 when the volatile organic compound is initially present
as a liquid mixed with another liquid. The removal of a volatile organic
compound from a liquid may be found in Class 210 for liquid purification or
separation or Class 203 for separatory distillation processes.
Distillation: Processes, Separatory, appropriate subclasses for processes for separating
a liquid mixture by vaporizing and condensing at least a portion
thereof to isolate in the condensed liquid (distillate) or in the unvaporized
portion (residue) a comparatively pure compound that was present
as such in the original mixture.
Liquid Purification or Separation, appropriate subclasses for processes of removing
a volatile organic compound from a liquid wherein the volatile organic
compound is initially present as a liquid mixed with another liquid.
Colloid Systems and Wetting Agents; Subcombinations
Thereof; Processes of Making, Stabilizing, Breaking, or Inhibiting,
subclasses 115 through 134for processes of or compositions for or subcombination
compositions for the breaking of or inhibiting of foam colloid systems,
when generically claimed or when there is no hierarchically superior
provision in the USPC for the specifically claimed art.
This subclass is indented under subclass 241. Process in which the liquid is subjected to more than one
degasifying step, each step occurring at a different time than another
step.
This subclass is indented under subclass 243. Process in which the liquid that is degasified is the feed
going to a steam generator, whether raw water or condensed steam.
This subclass is indented under subclass 243. Process in which in at least one of the degasifying steps
the gas is removed from the liquid by passing a gas through or in
contact with the liquid.
This subclass is indented under subclass 245. Process in which the pressure acting on the liquid is decreased.
(1)
Note. The pressure reduction may be used in a separate step
in order to remove gas from the liquid in addition to the step of
removing gas from the liquid by stripping with gas, or the pressure reduction
may be used in order to aid the removal by stripping with gas.
This subclass is indented under subclass 243. Process in which in at least one of the degasifying steps
the gas is removed from the liquid by decreasing the pressure acting
on the liquid.
This subclass is indented under subclass 247. Process in which the liquid is mixed, stirred, or turbulated
by contact with a solid member or the flow path of the contact liquid
is altered.
(1)
Note. The liquid flow modifying or mechanical agitating may
be used in a separate step in order to remove gas from the liquid
in addition to the step of removing gas from the liquid by reduction
of pressure, or the liquid flow modifying or mechanical agitating
may be used in order to aid the removal by reduction of pressure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 248. Process in which the liquid or the gas is heated.
(1)
Note. The heating may be used in a separate step in order
to remove gas from the liquid in addition to the step of removing gas
from the liquid by reduction of pressure or liquid flow modifying,
or the heating may be used in order to aid the removal by reduction
of pressure or liquid flow modifying.
This subclass is indented under subclass 247. Process in which the liquid or the gas is heated.
(1)
Note. The heating may be used in a separate step in order
to remove gas from the liquid in addition to the step of removing gas
from the liquid by reduction of pressure, or the heating may be
used in order to aid the removal by reduction of pressure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 243. Process in which in at least one of the degasifying steps
the gas is removed from the liquid by heating the liquid.
This subclass is indented under subclass 251. Process in which the liquid is mixed, stirred, or turbulated
by contact with a solid member or the flow path of the contact liquid
is altered.
(1)
Note. The liquid flow modifying or mechanical agitating may
be used in a separate step in order to remove gas from the liquid
in addition to the step of removing gas from the liquid by heating, or
the liquid flow modifying or mechanical agitating may be used in
order to aid the removal by heating.
This subclass is indented under subclass 241. Process in which two liquids are separated, one of which
(a) is originally finely dispersed in the other, as in an emulsion,
or (b) is mixed in and flows with the other.
Gas Separation: Apparatus,
subclasses 182 through 186for degasifying means for liquid which has means to
separate a liquid from a mixture with one or more additional liquids.
Liquid Purification or Separation, appropriate subclasses for liquid purification or separation,
and see particularly
subclass 708 for emulsion breaking.
Colloid Systems and Wetting Agents; Subcombinations
Thereof; Processes of Making, Stabilizing, Breaking, or Inhibiting,
subclasses 135 through 197for processes of or compositions for or subcombination
compositions for the breaking of or inhibiting of emulsion colloid
systems, by addition of chemical agent or by action of physical
agent, when generically claimed or when there is no hierarchically
superior provision in the USPC for the specifically claimed art.
This subclass is indented under subclass 241. Process in which the removed gas, a stripping gas, or the
remaining liquid is further treated or used in some manner involving
more than mere removal from the system.
This subclass is indented under subclass 254. Process in which the removed gas, the stripping gas, or
the remaining liquid is used to transfer heat to or to accept heat
from any material through a solid wall.
This subclass is indented under subclass 256. Process in which the removed gas or the stripping gas is
the heat exchange medium and is condensed to liquid.
This subclass is indented under subclass 254. Process in which (a) the removed gas is used to further
strip gas from the liquid, (b) the stripping gas is recovered and
is used for further stripping of gas from the liquid, or (c) the
gas is subjected to an additional separating treatment.
This subclass is indented under subclass 241. Process in which the gas is removed from the liquid by mixing,
stirring, or turbulating by contact with a solid member or the flow
path of the liquid is altered.
This subclass is indented under subclass 260. Process in which the gas is removed from the liquid by the
effect of centrifugal action which causes the liquid with gas entrained
therein to assume a rapid arcuate or circular movement.
This subclass is indented under subclass 260. Process in which the gas is removed from the liquid by causing
the liquid with gas entrained therein to contact a solid surface
in the flow path of the process in order to redirect or alter the
flow path and to cause separation of the gas from the liquid.
This subclass is indented under subclass 241. Process in which the gas is removed from the liquid by passing
a gas through or in contact with the liquid.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Process in which solid or liquid particles are removed from
a gas by causing the gas and solid or liquid particles entrained
therein (a) to contact a solid surface to effect an abrupt change
in direction of the gas which (i) causes the solid or liquid particles
to drop out and remain behind while the gas flows on or (ii) causes
the solid or liquid particles to move to the outer periphery of
a rotating gas stream in a concentrated layer to permit such layer
to be separated from the gas with fewer or no entrained particles
or (b) to contact a gas stream to effect an abrupt change in direction of
the gas which causes the solid or liquid particles to drop out and
remain behind while the gas flows on.
through 35, for processes of separating a plurality of gases
into constituent parts by making use of differences in molecular
velocity, density, or momentum of gases.
This subclass is indented under subclass 267. Process in which a gas and solid or liquid particles entrained
therein is passed through a foraminous or porous mass which separates
the solid or liquid particles from the gas by entrapment and retention
while permitting the gaseous or vaporous constituents to pass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 267. Process in which the solid or liquid particles are removed
from the gas by the effect of centrifugal action causing the gas
and the solid or liquid particles entrained therein to assume a rapid
arcuate or circular movement, with this movement causing the constituents
of the mixture to separate into more or less distinct layers, depending
upon the density of the constituents.
This subclass is indented under subclass 269. Process in which the gas enters deflecting apparatus in
a path other than one that intersects or is parallel to the longitudinal
axis of the apparatus.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Process in which a gas and solid or liquid particles entrained
therein are passed through a foraminous or porous mass which separates
the solid or liquid particles from the gas by entrapment and retention
while permitting the gaseous or vaporous constituents to pass through; and
subcombinations of gas filtration processes that do not result in
separation (e.g., cleaning of a filter, etc.) when the subcombinations
are not provided for elsewhere.
(1)
Note. A filter (particulate solids or other) has no "chemical" affinity
for a constituent of a fluid mixture. The separation in the case
of a filter depends on a mechanical entrapment of solid or liquid
particles because of their relatively large size compared with the
interstices or spaces between individual elements of the filter. The
retained particles can be removed by brushing, wiping, shaking,
or similar mechanical action.
A solid sorbent is a solid material which separates a constituent
(e.g., a gas, vapor, etc.) from a fluid mixture containing such
constituents in a "quasi-chemical" manner. The
action in most instances is that of selective retention (i.e., the
sorbent removes only the part of the fluid mixture for which it
has the greatest affinity). The retained constituent cannot be removed
by shaking, brushing, or similar mechanical action, but generally can
be removed by heating, pressure reduction, or use of a stripping
or denuding fluid.
Gas Separation,
subclasses 512 through 519for filtering apparatus including means for securing
or retaining a mass of particulate solids during use as a filter
medium.
Gas Separation,
subclass 474 for apparatus in which a bed of particulate solids
is agitated or caused to be moved to different zones during normal
use thereof.
This subclass is indented under subclass 278. Process in which the separated solid or liquid particles
are removed from the filter by contacting the filter with a gas,
usually in a direction opposite that of the process fluid flow during
separation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 279. Process in which the pressure of the gas that contacts the
filter in order to remove the separated solid or liquid particles
increases and decreases periodically.
This subclass is indented under subclass 278. Process in which the separated solid or liquid particles
are removed from the filter by contacting the filter with a liquid,
usually in a direction opposite that of the process fluid flow during
separation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 278. Process in which the separated solid or liquid particles
are removed from the filter by effecting filter motion or a relative
movement among portions thereof whereby accumulations are removed
or prevented.
This subclass is indented under subclass 273. Process in which the filter is coated or in which the filter
is treated with a chemical before its use for filtration.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Process in which there is transfer of heat.
(1)
Note. The heat transfer steps must be part of a larger process
containing subject matter for Class 95. If the only separation involved
is conducted by indirect heat transfer steps, then classification
in Class 165 is proper. However, Class 95 does take cold wall-hot
wall thermal diffusion and condensing a constituent of a gas to
the solid state.
Refrigeration, appropriate subclasses for specialized refrigeration
arrangements. See the class definition of Class 95 for an amplification
of the line.
This subclass is indented under subclass 288. Process in which the separation occurs by contacting the
plurality of gases with plural surfaces of different temperatures
to cause migration of gaseous constituents to one surface or another.
(1)
Note. This subclass takes specific refrigerating steps for
maintaining the cooler wall at the lower temperature.
Gas Separation: Apparatus,
subclass 221 for corresponding apparatus. Patents are not cross-referenced
from Class 96, subclass 221 to this subclass based only on disclosure.
Therefore, relevant disclosures of gas separation processes may
be found in the apparatus area.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Process not otherwise provided for above.
CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS
The following cross-reference art collections represent a collection
of patents found elsewhere in the classification of this class,
but merit isolation for aid in searching certain concepts which
do not form appropriate bases for the placement of original patents.
These concepts are as given in the titles and definitions of the
subclasses cross-reference art collections listed hereunder.
The cross-reference patents contained in these collections
may be of further assistance to the searcher, either as a starting
point in searching this class or as an indication of further related
fields of search inside or outside the class. Thus, there is provided
here a further path of access for retrieval of a limited number
of types of disclosure.
(1)
Note. Disclosures are placed in these cross-reference art
collections for their value as references and as leads to appropriate
main or secondary fields of search, without regard to their original classification
or their claimed subject matter.
(2)
Note. The disclosures found in the following cross-reference
art collections are only examples of the indicated subject matter,
and in no instance do they represent the entire extent of the prior art.
This subclass is indented under cross-reference art
collection 900. Solid sorbent as provided for use in this class in which
particular details are disclosed about the activated carbon (C), which
is a highly absorbent carbon obtained by heating granulated charcoal,
obtained from vegetable matter, to exhaust contained gases.
This subclass is indented under cross-reference art
collection 900. Solid sorbent as provided for use in this class in which
particular details are disclosed about the molecular sieve which is
usually a natural or synthetic metal aluminum silicate.
(1)
Note. The separation is similar to filtration in that the
interstices of the molecular sieve particle accept and retain only those
molecules which are smaller in size than the interstices.
This subclass is indented under cross-reference art
collection 902. Solid sorbent as provided for use in this class in which
the molecular sieve material is carbon (C).
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