Patent ID: 9033133
Filing Date: 2015-05-19
Classification: B65G,C08H,C12M,C12P,C13K,D21C,Y02E

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for use in preparing a cellulosic feedstock for ethanol production, comprising: (a) one or more sidewalls defining a passage extending in a downward direction having an upper portion and a lower portion; (b) at least one inlet adjacent the upper portion, the inlet having a cross sectional area; (c) at least one outlet adjacent the lower portion, the outlet having a cross sectional area wherein the cross sectional area of the outlet is greater than the cross sectional area of the inlet, and wherein one or more sidewalls diverge in the downward direction; (d) at least a first conveyor proximate the at least one outlet configured to convey a first portion of the cellulosic feedstock laterally across the at least one outlet in a first direction to a first conduit that is upstream of a first hydrolysis reactor; and, (e) at least a second conveyor proximate the at least one outlet configured to convey a second portion of the cellulosic feedstock laterally across the at least one outlet in a second direction to a second conduit that is upstream of a second hydrolysis reactor.