Elemental Hydrogen Patents (Class 423/648.1)
  • Patent number: 8697028
    Abstract: The invention relates to a catalyst which is used to obtain hydrogen or a hydrogen-rich gas that is suitable for use in fuel cells or other applications from bioethanol and/or ethanol, comprising a support, a promoter agent and an active phase which is incorporated into the support, said catalyst taking the form of a calcinated solid in which the support comprises at least one oxide with high surface mobility and is modified with the promoter agent. According to the invention, the promoter agent comprises at least one oxide of a rare earth that is selected from the lanthanide group and the active phase comprises at least one oxide of a transition metal from group VIII or IB.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Abengoa Hidrogeno, S.A.
    Inventors: Manuel Jesús Benito González, Juan Luis Sanz Yagüe, Ruth Isabel Gomez, Loreto Daza Bertrand
  • Publication number: 20140099252
    Abstract: An approach for supplying hydrogen and/or deuterium to LENR and E-Cat based energy generating systems includes receiving a source material that is rich in hydrogen and/or deuterium. A gaseous form of at least one of those elements is extracted from the source material via electrochemical dissociation, hydrocarbon recovery, or a suitable mechanical process. The gaseous form of the element is preferably filtered to remove water vapor and other impurities before being pressurized and supplied to the energy generating system. Advantages of the approach include enhanced safety and system portability due to elimination of a need for pressurized gas storage tanks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2012
    Publication date: April 10, 2014
    Inventors: Marc Kenneth Chason, Daniel Roman Gamota, Rick Latella
  • Patent number: 8691590
    Abstract: A hydrogen storage material analyzer along with its analysis and activation methods, the hydrogen storage material analyzer including a H2 absorption-desorption cycling tester, a temperature-programmed desorption spectrometer, a specimen holder and a temperature-controlled furnace.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: Yuan Ze University
    Inventors: Chia-Chieh Shen, Tsong-Pyng Perng, Hsueh-Chih Li
  • Publication number: 20140093446
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and/or devices for synthesis gas recapture are provided, which may include methods, systems, and/or devices for filtering a synthesis gas stream. In some cases, tars, particulates, water, and/or heat may be removed from the synthesis gas stream through the filtering of the synthesis gas stream. The filtered synthesis gas stream may then be captured and/or utilized in a variety of different ways. Some embodiments utilizing a C—O—H compound to filter a synthesis gas stream. In some embodiments, the C—O—H compound utilized to filter the synthesis gas stream may be utilized to produce additional synthesis gas. The additional synthesis gas may be filtered by additional C—O—H compound.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Publication date: April 3, 2014
    Applicant: Proton Power, Inc.
    Inventor: Proton Power, Inc.
  • Patent number: 8685121
    Abstract: An optimized gasification/vitrification processing system having a gasification unit which converts organic materials to a hydrogen rich gas and ash in communication with a joule heated vitrification unit which converts the ash formed in the gasification unit into glass, and a plasma which converts elemental carbon and products of incomplete combustion formed in the gasification unit into a hydrogen rich gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Inentec Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey E. Surma, James A Batdorf
  • Patent number: 8685364
    Abstract: Liquid compositions of ammonia borane and a suitably chosen amine borane material were prepared and subjected to conditions suitable for their thermal decomposition in a closed system that resulted in hydrogen and a liquid reaction product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Los Alamos National Security, LLC
    Inventors: Benjamin L. Davis, Brian D. Rekken
  • Publication number: 20140079626
    Abstract: A method for controlling a fuel reformer, capable of generating hydrogen by reforming fuel, comprises: heating a catalyst of the fuel reformer by operating an electric heater formed to enclose the catalyst; supplying fuel and air to the catalyst under a condition of complete combustion; flame-combusting the fuel by igniting an ignition plug installed near a rear end of the catalyst; and shifting the position of the flame combustion to inside of the catalyst, by reducing a supply amount of the fuel and the air, such that temperature of the catalyst is drastically increased.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2013
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Inventors: Hyun Jin JI, Sang Hyeon HA, Sung Baek CHO
  • Patent number: 8673512
    Abstract: When terminating power generation by a fuel cell 3 in a fuel cell system 1, an amount of a raw fuel material introduced to a reforming catalyst 2a of a reformer 2 is reduced. Here, before the temperature of the reforming catalyst 2a is lowered to the un-reformed gas generation temperature, an amount of water supplied to the reforming catalyst 2a is controlled to increase the temperature of the reforming catalyst 2a. Thus, upon termination of power generation in the fuel cell 3, no un-reformed gas is generated and the reformed gas is supplied to the fuel cell 3.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: Nippon Oil Corporation
    Inventor: Tomotaka Ishida
  • Patent number: 8673262
    Abstract: The invention provides a process of producing hydrogen that involves aqueous phase reforming of an oxygenated hydrocarbon, preferably one obtained from a renewable source such as biomass. The reaction is carried out in the absence of electrolytes and in the presence of a dispersed particulate heterogeneous catalyst. The reaction is carried out under pressure and relatively low temperature in a stirred tank reactor, preferably a continuous stirred tank reactor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: Her Majesty the Queen in right of Canada, as represented by the Minister of Natural Resources
    Inventors: Jacques Monnier, Yi Zhang, Andrew McFarlan
  • Patent number: 8673035
    Abstract: In an embodiment, a method of conducting a high temperature chemical reaction that produces hydrogen or synthesis gas is described. The high temperature chemical reaction is conducted in a reactor having at least two reactor shells, including an inner shell and an outer shell. Heat absorbing particles are included in a gas stream flowing in the inner shell. The reactor is heated at least in part by a source of concentrated sunlight. The inner shell is heated by the concentrated sunlight. The inner shell re-radiates from the inner wall and heats the heat absorbing particles in the gas stream flowing through the inner shell, and heat transfers from the heat absorbing particles to the first gas stream, thereby heating the reactants in the gas stream to a sufficiently high temperature so that the first gas stream undergoes the desired reaction(s), thereby producing hydrogen or synthesis gas in the gas stream.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignees: The Regents of the University of Colorado, a body corporate, Alliance for Substainable Energy, LLC
    Inventors: Alan W Weimer, Jaimee K Dahl, Allan A Lewandowski, Carl Bingham, Karen J Raska Buechler, Willy Grothe
  • Patent number: 8668897
    Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions and methods for producing hydrogen from water involving reacting metal particles with water in the presence of an effective amount of activator. In particular the invention pertains to compositions and methods for producing hydrogen upon reaction of metal particles selected from the group consisting of aluminum (Al), magnesium (Mg), boron (B), silicon (Si), iron (Fe), and zinc (Zn) with water, in the presence of an effective amount of an activator catalyst, wherein the activator is selected from the group consisting of: alkali metals, earth alkali metals, hydrides of alkali metals, hydrides of earth alkali metals, hydroxides of alkali metals, and hydroxides of earth alkali metals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Assignee: Technion Research & Development Foundation Limited
    Inventors: Valery Rosenband, Alon Gany
  • Publication number: 20140061540
    Abstract: Metal-organic frameworks of the family M2 (2,5-dioxido-1,4-benzenedicarboxylate) wherein M=Mg, Mn, Fe, Co, Cu, Ni or Zn are a group of porous crystalline materials formed of metal cations or clusters joined by multitopic organic linkers that can be used to isolate individual gases from a stream of combined gases. This group of adsorbant materials incorporates a high density of coordinatively-unsaturated MII centers lining the pore surfaces. These adsorbents are particularly suited for selective carbon dioxide/monoxide adsorption via pressure swing adsorption near temperatures of 313 K since they selectively adsorb carbon dioxide at high pressures in the presence of hydrogen, and desorb carbon dioxide upon a pressure decrease. The redox-active FeII centers in Fe2(dobdc) can be used for the separation of O2 from N2 and other separations based on selective, reversible electron transfer reactions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA
    Inventors: Jeffrey R. Long, Zoey R. Herm, Joseph A. Swisher, Berend Smit, Rajamani Krishna, Eric Bloch, Leslie Murray
  • Publication number: 20140053561
    Abstract: An aircraft fuel cell system is provided. The system includes a fuel tank, a reactor for generating hydrogen gas from a fuel, a heating apparatus and a fuel cell. The reactor can process a synthetic fuel produced from biomass. The use, in an aircraft, of a synthetic fuel, produced from biomass, for generating a gas that contains hydrogen is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2013
    Publication date: February 27, 2014
    Inventors: Kan-Ern Liew, Michael Enzinger, Juergen Steinwandel
  • Publication number: 20140054505
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods of use thereof for the production of carbon-based and other nanostructures, as well as fuels and reformed products, are provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2012
    Publication date: February 27, 2014
    Applicant: Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
    Inventors: Stephen D. Tse, Nasir K. Memon, Bernard H. Kear
  • Patent number: 8658055
    Abstract: Solid-state hydrogen fuel with a polymer matrix and fabrication methods thereof are presented. The solid-state hydrogen fuel includes a polymer matrix, and a crushed mixture of a solid chemical hydride and a solid-state catalyst uniformly dispersed in the polymer matrix. The fabrication method for the solid-state hydrogen fuel includes crushing and mixing a solid chemical hydride and a solid-state catalyst in a crushing/mixing machine, and adding the polymer matrix into the mixture of the solid chemical hydride and the solid-state catalyst to process a flexible solid-state hydrogen fuel. Moreover, various geometric and/or other shapes may be formed and placed into suitable vessels to react with a particular liquid and provide a steady rate of hydrogen release.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: Industrial Technology Research Institute
    Inventors: Chan-Li Hsueh, Jie-Ren Ku, Shing-Fen Tsai, Ya-Yi Hsu, Cheng-Yen Chen, Reiko Ohara, Ming-Shan Jeng, Fanghei Tsau
  • Publication number: 20140050996
    Abstract: A hydrogen generator (100) includes: a reformer (1) configured to generate a hydrogen-containing gas by a reforming reaction using a material gas; a hydro-desulfurizer (2) configured to remove a sulfur compound in the material gas; a recycled gas passage (9) through which the hydrogen-containing gas added to the material gas before the material gas flows into the hydro-desulfurizer (2) flows; a first on-off valve (3) disposed on the recycled gas passage (9); a material gas passage through which the material gas supplied to the reformer (1) flows; a second on-off valve (5) disposed on a portion of the material gas passage, the portion being located downstream of a connection portion where the material gas passage and the recycled gas passage (9) are connected to each other; and a controller (6) configured to open the first on-off valve (3) after the generation stop of the hydrogen-containing gas to supply the material gas to the recycled gas passage (9), and the controller (6) closes the second on-off valve (5
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2013
    Publication date: February 20, 2014
    Applicant: PANASONIC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yoshio Tamura, Koichi Kusumura, Hirofumi Kokubu
  • Patent number: 8652222
    Abstract: Particulate compositions are described comprising an intimate mixture of a biomass, such as switchgrass or hybrid poplar, a non-biomass carbonaceous material, such as petroleum coke or coal, and a gasification catalyst, where the gasification catalyst is loaded onto at least one of the biomass or non-biomass for gasification in the presence of steam to yield a plurality of gases including methane and at least one or more of hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and other higher hydrocarbons are formed. Processes are also provided for the preparation of the particulate compositions and converting the particulate composition into a plurality of gaseous products.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: GreatPoint Energy, Inc.
    Inventors: Pattabhi K. Raman, Edwin J. Hippo, Nelson Yee
  • Patent number: 8652436
    Abstract: A material for water gas contains polyhydric alcohol, and hydroxycarboxylic acid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: Kao Corporation
    Inventors: Yasuo Amishige, Takeshi Shirasawa
  • Patent number: 8651268
    Abstract: Hydrogen energy systems for obtaining hydrogen gas from a solid storage medium using controlled laser beams. Also disclosed are systems for charging/recharging magnesium with hydrogen to obtain magnesium hydride. Other relatively safe systems assisting storage, transport and use (as in vehicles) of such solid storage mediums are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Inventor: Paul H. Smith, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8647403
    Abstract: Methods and systems for gasifier fines recycling system are provided. The system includes a gasifier slag removal system configured to separate first fines from a particulate slag removed from a gasifier by at least one of settling and filtering, a second fines handling system configured to receive second fines from a source other than the gasifier, and an injection system configured to mix the first fines and the second fines and a fuel for injection into the gasifier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Paul Steven Wallace
  • Patent number: 8642002
    Abstract: Disclosed are a hydrogen energy production system utilizing silicon wastewater and a method for production of hydrogen energy using the same. More particularly, the disclosed system includes: a UF treatment bath wherein the silicon wastewater is treated through UF film filtration to separate UF treated water and a concentrated silicon waste solution therefrom; a line mixer connected to the UF treatment bath in order to admix the separated silicon waste solution with an alkaline material fed from the outside; and a hydrogen production bath connected to the line mixer, wherein the concentrated silicon waste solution in the mixture reacts with the alkaline material, in order to produce hydrogen gas. Additionally, a hydrogen energy production method using the foregoing system is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Woongjin Coway Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chae-Seok Choi, Ji-Hyeon Hwang, Youn-Kook Kim
  • Patent number: 8642003
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for producing hydrogen comprising the steps of: i) contacting a compound (C) comprising one or more groups Si—H with a phosphorous based catalyst in the presence of a base in water as solvent, thereby forming hydrogen and a by-product (C1); wherein said phosphorous based catalyst is as defined in claim 1; and ii) recovering the obtained hydrogen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignees: Universite d'Aix-Marseille, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (C.N.R.S.)
    Inventor: Jean-Michel Brunel
  • Patent number: 8636961
    Abstract: The present invention increases the amount of hydrogen produced or released from reactions between a metal hydride fuel and liquid reactant. The present invention also decreases the volume of a hydrogen generating cartridge by reducing the pH of the liquid reactant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignee: Societe BIC
    Inventors: Anthony Sgroi, Jr., Constance R. Stepan, Andrew J. Curello, Michael Curello
  • Patent number: 8636975
    Abstract: A method and a device for generating of hydrogen are provided with which an instantaneous release of hydrogen in considerable amounts is possible. The method comprises a one or two step mixing including injecting the fuel and an activator fluid into a reaction chamber. The device is adapted to be operated with such a method. Further, a fuel suitable for the use with such a method is provided, the fuel being based on a dry metal hydride or a dry metal borohydride being dispersed in a non-aqueous dispersion medium. Moreover, a method for (re-) fuelling the hydrogen generating device at a service station and a method for supplying a service station with fuel are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignee: H2Fuel-Systems B.V.
    Inventor: Gerardus Wilhelmus Lugtigheid
  • Patent number: 8636826
    Abstract: The present application is directed to a hydrophobic membrane assembly (28) used within a gas-generating apparatus. Hydrogen is separated from the reaction solution by passing through a hydrophobic membrane assembly (28) having a hydrophobic lattice like member (36) disposed within a hydrogen output composite (32) further enhancing the ability of the hydrogen output composite's ability to separate out hydrogen gas and prolonging its useful life.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignee: Societe BIC
    Inventors: Andrew J. Curello, Michael Curello, Constance R. Stepan
  • Patent number: 8623317
    Abstract: The invention relates to a material for reversible hydrogen storage comprising a complex hydride based on one or more anions selected among BH4?, MgH3?, MH4? and MH63? (M=Al, Ga, In), and one or more cations, where the material has obtained amended stability due to substitution of the complex hydride phase itself. The invention also relates to a process for preparation of the material and use thereof, and a process for reversible hydrogen storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: Institutt for Energiteknikk
    Inventor: Hendrik W. Brinks
  • Patent number: 8617267
    Abstract: A reformer having high durability and including a heating unit and a reforming unit. The heating unit has a hollow cylindrical shape or polygonal shape and a first combustor and a second combustor that receives and oxidizes heating unit fuel and anode off gas (AOG) at both ends thereof. The reforming unit includes a first reforming portion formed to surround the exterior of the heating unit, a second reforming portion formed to surround the exterior of the first reforming portion and a flow path portion connecting the first reforming portion and the second reforming portion to provide fluid communication therebetween. The flow path portion includes a pre-deformed portion extending along a direction substantially perpendicular to the central axis of the heating unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: Samsung SDI Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: In-Hyuk Son
  • Patent number: 8617511
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a process for producing hydrogen from methanol, comprising providing at least one flow of methanol and (1) catalytically converting part of the methanol or a fuel gas with air oxygen to carbon dioxide and water, while generating heat and (2) catalytically converting the methanol or the remaining part of the methanol at elevated temperature to hydrogen and carbon monoxide, followed by conversion of the carbon monoxide with water to hydrogen and carbon dioxide, wherein the heat generated in step (1) is sufficient to produce the elevated temperature required in step (2), wherein both steps (1) and (2) are carried out in a bed of sintered metal particles, the bed of sintered metal in step (2) having a surface that is catalytically active for the conversion of methanol to hydrogen, and wherein the beds of sintered metal particles are in heat exchanging relationship.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: K.M.W.E. Management B.V.
    Inventors: John Wilhelm Geus, Marinus Franciscus Johannes Evers
  • Patent number: 8617266
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a hydrogen generating apparatus for producing hydrogen from a hydrocarbon feed through a steam reforming reaction, in which a pressure drop device is installed between a feed distributor and each of reactor tubes in order to prevent the feed from being unevenly distributed to the reactor tubes. In the hydrogen generating apparatus, the pressure drop device for artificially dropping the supply pressure of the feed is installed between the feed distributor and each of the reactor tubes which are concentrically arranged with respect to a heat source. Accordingly, if the feed is unevenly distributed, the pressure drop device can suppress an abnormal temperature rise in some of the reactor tubes to induce the smooth production of hydrogen and to greatly improve the operational safety of the hydrogen generating apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: SK Innovations Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jin Hwan Bang, Young Dae Kim, Myung Jun Kim
  • Publication number: 20130343985
    Abstract: In accordance with one or more embodiments, a tubular catalyst-containing reactor system is provided. The system includes a housing and a vaporizer unit in the housing comprising a helically wound tubular assembly for receiving and at least partially vaporizing a liquid chemical reactant stream. A reformer unit in the housing receives a vaporized chemical reactant stream from the vaporizer unit. The reformer unit comprises a helically wound tubular assembly connected to and positioned coaxially relative to the helically wound tubular assembly of the vaporizer unit. The helically wound tubular assembly of the reformer unit contains a catalyst for catalyzing formation of gas product stream from the vaporized chemical reactant stream. A burner unit heats the vaporizer unit and the reformer unit. The burner unit receives a fuel stream and an air stream and produces a flame generally inside the helically wound tubular assemblies of the vaporizer unit and the reformer unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2012
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Applicant: HY9 CORPORATION
    Inventors: Charles W. Krueger, George M. Roberts, Edward G. Kelrikh, Michael Y. Leshchiner
  • Publication number: 20130344407
    Abstract: A hydrogen generator is provided for generating hydrogen gas for a fuel cell stack. The hydrogen generator includes a reaction area and a reactant storage area for storing a reactant composition for reacting to generate hydrogen gas. The hydrogen generator also includes a high pH solution contained within a solution storage area. Hydrogen gas is discharged through an outlet that passes through a filter to supply gas to the fuel cell. A predetermined quantity of high pH solution is injected into the reaction area to stop the reaction when electrical power is no longer demanded.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2012
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Applicant: EVEREADY BATTERY COMPANY, INC.
    Inventor: Alvin R. Mick
  • Patent number: 8613902
    Abstract: Hydrogen (“H2”) is produced when ammonia borane reacts with a catalyst complex of the formula LnM-X wherein M is a base metal such as iron, X is an anionic nitrogen- or phosphorus-based ligand or hydride, and L is a neutral ancillary ligand that is a neutral monodentate or polydentate ligand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Assignee: Los Alamos National Security, LLC
    Inventors: Charles W. Hamilton, R. Thomas Baker, Troy A. Semelsberger, Roshan P. Shrestha
  • Publication number: 20130337351
    Abstract: The synthesis of single graphene sheets decorated with metal or metal oxide nanoparticles, and their uses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2012
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Inventors: Lawrence T. Drzal, Inhwan Do, Anchita Monga
  • Publication number: 20130336878
    Abstract: A eutectic supported catalyst system is used in catalyzed chemical reactions. A metal catalyst particle is supported in a eutectic medium. The system may have a) a eutectic composition of at least two metals forming the eutectic composition; and b) metal catalyst particles, preferably of nanometer dimensions, such as from 0.5 to 50 nm. The particles are dispersed throughout the eutectic composition when the eutectic composition is solid, and the particles are dispersed or suspended throughout the eutectic composition when the eutectic composition is in liquid form. At least one metal of the eutectic may comprises lead and a metal in the metal catalyst is a different metal then the metals in the eutectic. The eutectic may be in a liquid state and the metal catalyst particles may be in an equilibrium state within the eutectic.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2013
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Inventor: Allen L. Johnson
  • Patent number: 8609054
    Abstract: A method of forming hydrogen gas comprises the steps of providing a reactor and providing a hydrogen-generating composition to the reactor. The hydrogen-generating composition consists essentially of a borohydride component and a glycerol component. The borohydride, e.g. sodium borohydride, and glycerol components are present in a generally three (3) to four (4) stoichiometric ratio, prior to reaction. The borohydride component has hydrogen atoms and the glycerol component has hydroxyl groups with hydrogen atoms. The method further comprises the step of reacting the borohydride component with the glycerol component thereby converting substantially all of the hydrogen atoms present in the borohydride component and substantially all of the hydrogen atoms present in the hydroxyl groups of the glycerol component to form the hydrogen gas. The reaction between the borohydride component and the glycerol component is an alcoholysis reaction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: EnerFuel, Inc.
    Inventors: Vesna Stanic, Daniel Augusto Betts Carrington
  • Publication number: 20130330269
    Abstract: A method for producing hydrogen from water is provided. The hydrogen production process includes splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen, wherein the process includes decomposing sulfuric acid into water, sulfur dioxide and oxygen through a reaction of formula (X1) by using solar thermal energy, wherein at least a part of the elementary reaction of formula (X1-1) is performed using thermal solar energy, and at least a part of the elementary reaction of formula (X1-2) is performed using additional thermal energy other than solar thermal energy, and wherein the heating temperature by the additional thermal energy is higher by 10° C.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2011
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Shinichi Takeshima, Norihiko Nakamura
  • Publication number: 20130330263
    Abstract: A catalyst according to the present invention exhibits a catalytic action to a methanol decomposition reaction or a hydrocarbon steam-reforming reaction in a short time. The present invention provides a catalyst for producing hydrogen gas, using an Ni3Si-based intermetallic compound.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2012
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Applicant: OSAKA PREFECTURE UNIVERSITY PUBLIC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yasuyuki Kaneno, Takayuki Takasugi
  • Publication number: 20130331622
    Abstract: Techniques, systems, apparatus and material are disclosed for generating renewable energy from biomass waste while sequestering carbon. In one aspect, a method performed by a reactor to dissociate raw biomass waste into a renewable source energy or a carbon byproduct or both includes receiving the raw biomass waste that includes carbon, hydrogen and oxygen to be dissociated under an anaerobic reaction. Waste heat is recovered from an external heat source to heat the received raw biomass waste. The heated raw biomass waste is dissociated to produce the renewable fuel, carbon byproduct or both. The dissociating includes compacting the heated raw biomass waste, generating heat from an internal heat source, and applying the generated heat to the compacted biomass waste under pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2012
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Inventor: Roy Edward McAlister
  • Patent number: 8604263
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to energy and the production of cost-effective power sources as hydrocarbons and hydrogen, as well as an oxidizer, such as oxygen. In an embodiment, the method of hydrocarbons, hydrogen and oxygen production includes a number of stages, including water saturation with carbon dioxide to form a saturated carbonated water; passing of the carbonated water through the reactor, which contains a catalyst, with the formation of hydrocarbons, hydrogen and oxygen, that subsequently flow into a separator; separation of reaction products from the initial carbonated water in the separator by liquid and gaseous phase separation, while hydrocarbons are separated from the liquid and gaseous phases, and hydrogen and oxygen are additionally separated from the gaseous phase.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Galadigma LLC
    Inventors: Azary Aleksandrovich Barenbaum, Sumbat Nabievich Zakirov, Ernest Sumbatovich Zakirov, Vladimir Aleksandrovich Serebryakov
  • Publication number: 20130309163
    Abstract: A process for producing a H2-containing product gas and purified water from an integrated catalytic steam-hydrocarbon reforming and thermal water purification process. Raw water, such as salt water, is heated by indirect heat transfer with reformate from the catalytic steam reforming process for purifying raw water in one of a multiple effect distillation process and a multi-stage flash process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2013
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Applicant: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.
    Inventors: Xiang-Dong Peng, Geoffrey Colling Achilles, Blaine Edward Herb, Eric Howard Klingenberg, Derek Miller
  • Publication number: 20130309165
    Abstract: Provided are a metal structure catalyst and a method of preparing the same. Particularly, the method includes forming a metal precipitate on a metal support by contact of a mixed solution including a precursor of a metal catalyst and a precipitating agent with the metal support, and forming metal particles by thermally treating and reducing the metal precipitate formed on the metal support. The metal structure catalyst includes a metal support, a metal oxide layer formed on the metal support, and metal nanoparticles formed on the metal oxide layer. In addition, the metal nanoparticles are uniform and have enhanced binding strength.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2012
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Inventors: Kee Young Koo, Wang Lai Yoon, Un Ho Jung, Sang Ho Park, Young Jae Hwang
  • Patent number: 8586003
    Abstract: Method of producing hydrogen from methanol comprising providing a feed mixture of methanol and water at high pressure, delivering the feed mixture to a reactor chamber (5) equipped with an internal heat exchanger, wherein said feed mixture is heated by heat exchange with an outgoing reformed mixture from the reactor chamber, and wherein said outgoing reformed mixture is simultaneously cooled by said feed mixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Aquarden Technologies APS
    Inventor: Zhuoyan Cai
  • Patent number: 8580227
    Abstract: The present inventions are a method for production of hydrogen which decomposes water into hydrogen by oxidation of metals only when the metals are exposed to the water, while preventing oxidation of pure metal nanoparticles using block copolymers and, in addition, hydrogen produced by the method described above. The method of the present invention has advantages of improved convenience and simplicity, achieves a preferable approach for hydrogen storage because the metal nanoparticles enclosed by the block copolymer have the ease of delivery and reaction thereof. Additionally, the method of the present invention only using water and the metal is considered eco-friendly and useful in industrial energy applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology
    Inventors: Jeung-Ku Kang, Weon-Ho Shin, Jun-Hyeon Bae, Jung-Hoon Choi, Cheol-Ock Song, Kyung-Min Choi
  • Publication number: 20130295002
    Abstract: A self-regulating gas generator that, in response to gas demand, supplies and automatically adjusts the amount of gas (e.g., hydrogen or oxygen) catalytically generated in a chemical supply chamber from an appropriate chemical supply, such as a chemical solution, gas dissolved in liquid, or mixture. In some embodiments, the gas generator may employ a piston, rotating rod, or other element(s) to expose the chemical supply to the catalyst in controlled amounts. In another embodiment, the self-regulating gas generator uses bang-bang control, with the element(s) exposing a catalyst, contained within the chemical supply chamber, to the chemical supply in ON and OFF states according to a self-adjusting duty cycle, thereby generating and outputting the gas in an orientation-independent manner. The gas generator may be used to provide gas for various gas consuming devices, such as a fuel cell, torch, or oxygen respiratory devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2012
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Applicant: Encite LLC
    Inventors: Stephen A. Marsh, Donald M. Parker, Peter N. Pintauro
  • Patent number: 8574327
    Abstract: A molten metal reactor for converting a carbon material and steam into a gas comprising hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide is disclosed. The reactor includes an interior crucible having a portion contained within an exterior crucible. The interior crucible includes an inlet and an outlet; the outlet leads to the exterior crucible and may comprise a diffuser. The exterior crucible may contain a molten alkaline metal compound. Contained between the exterior crucible and the interior crucible is at least one baffle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Battelle Energy Alliance, LLC
    Inventors: Dennis N. Bingham, Kerry M. Klingler, Terry D. Turner, Bruce M. Wilding
  • Patent number: 8568494
    Abstract: A fuel processor (10) comprises a desulphurization reactor (12), a catalytic partial oxidation reactor (14), a combustor (16) and a pre-reformer (18), means (20) to supply a hydrocarbon fuel to the desulphurization reactor (12), means (24) to supply air to the catalytic partial oxidation reactor (14) and means (24) to supply air to the combustor (16). A method of operating the fuel processor for a fuel cell arrangement includes (a) supplying safe gas to the fuel cell arrangement in a first mode of operation, (b) supplying synthesis gas to the fuel cell arrangement in a second mode of operation and (c) supplying processed hydrocarbon fuel to the fuel cell arrangement in a third mode of operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: LG Fuel Cell Systems Inc.
    Inventors: Gary J. Saunders, Fabio Cerutti
  • Patent number: 8568496
    Abstract: In a gas generator for gasifying solid granular fuels to obtain combustible gaseous compounds for producing synthesis gas or H2-suitable raw gas, a fluidized bed formed of the fuels moves through a closed reaction vessel with a sluice mounted at the top for continuously introducing the fuels and with a closure mounted below the funnel-shaped constriction of the bottom for discharging the ash formed into an ash sluice, wherein above the funnel-shaped constriction of the bottom a revolving grate is arranged, through which the gasifying medium can be introduced from below into the fluidized bed, and through which the ash formed can be discharged into the ash sluice via the funnel-shaped constriction and an adjoining tubular portion. To achieve a continuous operation of the revolving grate, a bulk-material slide valve is mounted in the tubular portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Lurgi Clean Coal Technology (PTY) Ltd
    Inventor: Gerhard Schmitt
  • Patent number: 8562929
    Abstract: A method for producing ammonia suitable for use as a reductant in a combustion exhaust gas treatment system is provided that includes the electrolytic hydrolysis of urea under mild conditions. The ammonia generator, which includes an electrolysis apparatus including an electrolytic flow cell, an alkaline electrolyte composition, and a recirculation system, may be operatively coupled to an exhaust gas treatment system to provide an apparatus for reducing nitrogen oxides (NOx) and/or particulate in exhaust gases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Ohio University
    Inventor: Gerardine G. Botte
  • Patent number: 8562928
    Abstract: A process for making molecular hydrogen, elemental sulfur and sulfur dioxide from hydrogen sulfide. The process involves contacting a gas stream of hydrogen sulfide within a contacting zone with a contacting composition comprising metal sulfide in a lower sulfided state and yielding from the contacting zone a product gas stream comprising hydrogen and a recovered contacting composition comprising metal sulfide in a higher sulfided state. The higher metal sulfide is regenerated with oxygen to yield elemental sulfur and sulfur dioxide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Shell Oil Company
    Inventor: Puneet Gupta
  • Patent number: 8562933
    Abstract: A hot solids process selectively operable for purposes of generating at least one predetermined output based on what the specific nature of the primary purpose of the hot solids process is for which the at least one predetermined output that is selected from a multiplicity of predetermined outputs, such as H2 and CO2, is being produced, and wherein such primary purpose of the hot solids process is designed to be pre-selected from a group of primary purposes of the hot solids process that includes at least two of the generation of H2 for electric power purposes, the generation of SynGas for electric power production as well as for other industrial uses, the production of steam for electric power generation as well as for other uses, the production of process heat, the production of CO2 for agricultural purposes, and the generation of a feedstock such as H2 for use for the production of liquid hydrocarbons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: ALSTOM Technology Ltd
    Inventors: Herbert E. Andrus, Jr., John. H. Chiu, Gregory N. Liljedahl, Paul R. Thibeault, Carl R. Bozzuto, Corinne Beal, Michal T. Bialkowski, Andreas Brautsch, Laurent Maghdissian, Michel Vandycke