US Patent:
20030015473, Jan 23, 2003
Inventors:
Christopher Murphy - Clarendon Hills IL, US
Jonathan Fabri - Charleston SC, US
Robert Mahoney - Newbury MA, US
International Classification:
C02F001/28
Abstract:
The current invention describes organoclay compositions and methods of using them for removing impurities from contaminated liquids. The compositions are formed by contacting an attapulgite, sepiolite, or zeolite clay mineral with an alkylamine base. The method of use involves contacting the organoclay composition with a contaminated liquid, such as oil in water, allowing the organoclay to absorb the contaminants. The organoclay can be in the form of a granular solid for inline filter applications, or it can be a finely divided powder for other applications.