INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
Luca's success depends in large part on its proprietary technology for which it seeks protection under patent, copyright, trademark and trade secret laws. Such protection is also maintained in part by using proprietary information and invention agreements. Protection of Luca's technology is important so that Luca may exclude its competitors from practicing technology that it has developed. To date, Luca has 12 issued US and foreign patents, two US and foreign patent applications that are currently allowed and awaiting issuance, and 36 pending US and foreign patent applications. These patents and patent applications are directed to Luca's technology and the specific methods that support Luca's business. Luca continues to file new patent applications, for which terms extend up to 20 years from the earliest priority filing date in the US. To date, Luca has obtained a license on a non-exclusive basis to rights under one issued US patent. Luca will continue to file and prosecute patent applications and maintain trade secrets, as is consistent with its business plan, in an ongoing effort to protect its intellectual property. A list of granted US patents is shown below:
- U.S. Patent 12/129,441 – Biogenic Fuel Gas Generation in Geologic Hydrocarbon Deposits, allowed June 11, 2010
- U.S. Patent #7426960 – Biogenic Fuel Gas Generation in Geologic Hydrocarbon Deposits, issued September 23, 2008
- U.S. Patent #7640978 – Biogenic Fuel Gas Generation in Geologic Hydrocarbon Deposits, issued January 5, 2010
- U.S. Patent #7696132 – Chemical Amendments for the Stimulation of Biogenic Gas Generation in Deposits of Carbonaceous Material, issued April 13, 2010
- U.S. Patent #7416879 – Thermacetogenium phaem Consortium for the Production of Materials with Enhanced Hydrogen Content, issued August 26, 2008
