Abstract: Methods and apparatus for extracting sample components from complex matrices using supercritical carbon dioxide as the principal extracting solvent are disclosed. The present invention takes advantage of the fact that the solvent power of a supercritical fluid is stepwise settable by the parameters of density, modifier concentration, and temperature. Accordingly, methods and apparatus for extracting a component from a sample using flow system having a variable and controllable flow restriction are disclosed. The methods of the present invention comprise the steps of inserting the sample into the sample container section, inputting temperature, pressure, flow rate and extraction time setpoints. The flow rate is controlled and the system pressure regulated by the variable flow restriction.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process and to an apparatus for the conversion of hydrocarbons. According to the invention, at least one first gas containing at least 20% of oxygen by volume and a type of hydrocarbon are first all circulated in separate streams which are parallel to each other, without their being mixed, according to a spatial distribution such that the first gas is surrounded by the hydrocarbon; these substances are introduced into a mixing/reaction chamber at a first given circulation level, and while the substances are then allowed to mix, the oxygen and the hydrocarbon are ignited so as to give rise to the conversion reaction and then, at a second given circulation level situated downstream of the first, a quenching of the resultant mixture is performed in a chamber, the resultant quenched conversion products are recovered. The invention applies particularly to the manufacture of conversion products such as acetylene and ethylene.

Abstract: In a fast fluidized bed reactor having, in a lower region, downwardly and inwardly inclined walls, a change in the direction of the wall surface or a ledge or protrusion is provided to change the direction of the particles flowing downwardly adjacent the wall for directing the particles inwardly away from the wall and into the region acted on by the nozzles providing the fluidizing gas. The change of direction, abutment or projection is preferably provided along the refractory wall surface at an elevation 200-1100 mm above the grid plate. In this manner, clogging of the nozzles is prevented and more efficient and effective fluidization and combustion processes occur.