Shale oil value enhancement research - Quarterly report: January 1 - March 31, 1996

Activities during this quarter focused on (a) compound type analysis of shale oil and its extraction products, (b) thermal hydrodealkylation of the > 290°C polar fraction, and (c) economic analysis of the SPX project. At the end of this quarter, Mr. Jerry Wiser - the chief process engineer of JWBA, took a job with an equipment and engineering firm in the Salt Lake City. Jerry still maintains his contact with us as an Associate of the company. With regard to the SPX project, Jerry's contribution included the process control and automation of various process units including the 15-stage distillation column and the continuous liquid-liquid extraction column. He also participated in data processing of the microanalysis of the complex hydrocarbon mixtures. All of the works he was involved in are fully functional and well-documented. At this transition stage, his previous duty is fulfilled by other JWBA staff. The current SPX team is well-suited for the upcoming tasks of running the PDU's and preparing samples for introduction to potential partners and buyers. The dialog with potential industrial partners is continuing. We keep receiving inquires about our pyridine technology, including companies outside of United States. We are also preparing for presentation of a business plan before the Dawnbreaker commercialization assistance program. At the present time, although we can put together a "presentable" package, the lack of manufacturing plan and proof of market assurance (the originally proposed Phase-in work which has yet to be funded) may turn out to be critical for making this project commercial attractive.