The Pacific Technology Applications Corporation (PTAC), a subsidiary of Pacific International Center For High Technology Research (PICHTR), is an organization engaged in the business of technology applications and is chartered to develop, promote and commercialize technology. Technologies included but not restricted to are renewable energy technologies, environmental and resource recovery technologies, and other sustainable technologies and support systems.
Biomass Gasification Technology
BGF Dismantlement
With the conclusion of the Hawaiian Biomass Gasification project, PICHTR transferred its obligations for dismantlement and sale of the facility assets to PTAC. PTAC has concluded negotiations with Siemens Westinghouse (Siemens) and Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar (HC&S) for dismantlement of the facility and sale of the components. Approval from the State of Hawaii has also been secured to allow PTAC to sell to Siemens and HC&S various equipment and facility assets. HC&S has also been "contracted" to dismantle the facility. Minor other parts are being sold to interested parties.
It is expected that 75% of the revenue from the sale of assets net of PTAC expenses, will be distributed to the State of Hawaii in accordance to the Agreement for Transfer of State Property.
PICHTR is currently negotiating with HC&S for the subsequent sale of the Data Control System (DCS) and the Hammermill, which was transferred from Siemens to PTAC. Should PTAC receive cash for these transactions, 75% of such proceeds will also be distributed to the State of Hawaii. However, PTAC and the State have discussed the possibility of using the potential proceeds for the removal and storage of the gasifier vessel and related appurtenances for use in other possible Biomass Gasification Technology development projects.
Environmental Technology
Johkasou - Tank-based Tertiary Treatment Systems
PTAC executed a Teaming Agreement in January 1998 with Environmental Waste Management Systems (EWMS). The Agreement is focused on technology development and commercialization of environmental technologies including waste water treatment products and services. PTAC has been serving as business development advisor for EWMS and is assisting in the development of the EWMS Business Plan. EWMS is currently working with their Japanese counterparts to manufacture the technology locally. In addition, the Johkasou technology is currently under testing at the Sand Island Treatment Plant. The tests are being conducted by Dr. Roger Babcock, of the University of Hawaii, based on analytical requirements of the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF).
Until such time as local production is available and NSF certification is secured, PTAC involvement will be minimal. However, the potential application of this technology is as a cost effective, low maintenance alternative to septic tank and cesspool systems maybe very significant.
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