By Decomposing Hydrocarbon Patents (Class 423/650)
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Publication number: 20140120025Abstract: In one embodiment, a gas hydrate conversion system is provided comprising a floating factory, an appendage for harvesting a gas hydrate from an oceanic hydrate deposit, and one or more storage tanks. The floating factory comprises one or more heat exchange assemblies, one or more heat pump assemblies and an engine. In another embodiment, a method for harvesting hydrocarbon hydrate deposits is provided, the method comprising providing a gas hydrate conversion system; inducing release of methane from an oceanic hydrate deposit; capturing the methane from a primary methane capture zone and/or a secondary methane capture zone; and converting the methane to hydrogen and carbon.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 7, 2014Publication date: May 1, 2014Applicant: MCALISTER TECHNOLOGIES, LLCInventor: Roy Edward McAlister
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Patent number: 8709287Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 8, 2013Date of Patent: April 29, 2014Assignee: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.Inventors: Xiang-Dong Peng, Geoffrey Colling Achilles, Blaine Edward Herb, Eric Howard Klingenberg, Derek Miller
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Publication number: 20140112863Abstract: A fuel processor for generating hydrogen rich gas or cleaned hydrogen rich gas from hydrocarbon fuel includes an inner housing and an outer housing defining a mantel space between them, wherein at least one fuel reformer unit for reforming hydrocarbon fuel to a hydrogel rich gas and optionally a gas-cleaning unit for cleaning the hydrogen rich gas from unwanted by-products are arranged in the inner housing. The fuel processor further includes a processor inlet for introducing hydrocarbon fuel into the inner housing and a processor outlet for releasing cleaned hydrogen rich gas from the inner housing. The outer housing further includes a fluid inlet for introducing a heat transporting fluid into the mantel space. The inner housing includes at least one opening for providing a fluid-connection between the inner housing and the mantel space. A method for operating such a fuel processor is also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 1, 2014Publication date: April 24, 2014Applicant: POWERCELL SWEDEN ABInventors: Peter FORSBERG, Bjorn HAGGENDAL, Anders ERIKSSON, Louise DE VERDIER
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Patent number: 8696775Abstract: Methods are disclosed for generating electrical power from a compound comprising carbon, oxygen, and hydrogen. Water is combined with the compound to produce a wet form of the compound. The wet form of the compound is transferred into a reaction processing chamber. The wet form of the compound is heated within the reaction chamber such that elements of the compound dissociate and react, with one reaction product comprising hydrogen gas. The hydrogen gas is processed to generate electrical power.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 2012Date of Patent: April 15, 2014Assignee: Proton Power, IncInventors: Samuel C. Weaver, Samuel P. Weaver, Daniel C. Weaver, Daniel L. Hensley
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Patent number: 8697027Abstract: Methods and systems of providing a source of hydrogen and oxygen with high volumetric energy density, as well as a power systems useful in non-air breathing engines such as those in, for example, submersible vehicles, is disclosed. A hydride reactor may be utilized in forming hydrogen from a metal hydride and a peroxide reactor may be utilized in forming oxygen from hydrogen peroxide. The high temperature hydrogen and oxygen may be converted to water using a solid oxide fuel cell, which serves as a power source. The power generation system may have an increased energy density in comparison to conventional batteries. Heat produced by exothermic reactions in the hydride reactor and the peroxide reactor may be transferred and utilized in other aspects of the power generation system. High temperature water produced during by the peroxide reactor may be used to fuel the hydride reactor.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2009Date of Patent: April 15, 2014Assignee: Alliant Techsystems Inc.Inventors: Ighor K. Uzhinsky, Gary K. Lund, John C. Leylegian, Florin Girlea, Jason S. Tyll, Lawrence G. Piper, Marten Byl, Wallace Chinitz
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Patent number: 8696936Abstract: A hydrogen generating system and a method of in situ hydrogen generation controlled on demand capable of reacting an aluminum-free metal reagent composed of at least one of alkali metals, alkaline earth metals, alkali metal alloys and blends including alkali metals, alkaline earth metal alloys and blends including alkaline earth metals and metal alloys including at least one alkali metal and at least one alkaline earth metal, with water to obtain hydrogen and a residual reaction product including metal hydroxide composed of at least one of alkali hydroxides and alkaline earth hydroxide; and separating hydrogen from the residual reaction product; liquefying the metal reagent by heating to obtain liquid metal reagent under vacuum conditions; injecting the liquid metal reagent into a reactor by metal reagent injecting means and simultaneously injecting, by water injection system, a stoichiometric amount of water with respect to the amount of the liquid metal reagent being injected into the reactor such that a coType: GrantFiled: May 9, 2011Date of Patent: April 15, 2014Inventor: Amalio Garrido Escudero
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Patent number: 8696772Abstract: Systems and methods for producing hydrogen gas with a fuel processing system that includes a hydrogen-producing region that produces hydrogen gas from a feed stream and a heating assembly that consumes a fuel stream to produce a heated exhaust stream for heating the hydrogen-producing region. In some embodiments, the heating assembly heats the hydrogen-producing region to at least a minimum hydrogen-producing temperature. In some embodiments, the rate at which an air stream is delivered to the heating assembly is controlled to selectively increase or decrease the temperature of the heated exhaust stream. In some embodiments, the feed stream and the fuel stream both contain a carbon-containing feedstock and at least 25 wt % water. In some embodiments, the feed and fuel streams have the same composition.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2011Date of Patent: April 15, 2014Assignee: DCNS SAInventors: David J. Edlund, Darrell J. Elliott, Alan E. Hayes, William A. Pledger, Curtiss Renn, Redwood Stephens, R. Todd Studebaker
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Publication number: 20140099252Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: October 9, 2012Publication date: April 10, 2014Inventors: Marc Kenneth Chason, Daniel Roman Gamota, Rick Latella
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Patent number: 8691181Abstract: A process for preparing and converting synthesis gas, which has a plurality of different operating states which consist essentially of mutually alternating (i) daytime operation and (ii) nighttime operation, daytime operation (i) comprising principally dry reforming and steam reforming with supply of renewable energy, and nighttime operation (ii) comprising principally the partial oxidation of hydrocarbons, and the synthesis gas produced being used to produce products of value.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2008Date of Patent: April 8, 2014Assignee: BASF SEInventors: Stephan Schunk, Armin Lange De Oliveira
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Patent number: 8690974Abstract: A pyrolytic hydrogen generator comprising a pressure vessel containing a plurality of cardboard receptacles for the thermally decomposable hydrogen generating material and an associated ignition system. Also, a modular pellet tray assembly for use in the generator comprises a plurality of trays having pellet holders and associated igniters and held in a stack by support rods that also provide electrical connectivity to the trays. Also, a pellet tray assembly comprises a plurality of pellet holders, wherein some of more outwardly disposed pellet holders contain only outwardly facing vents and are fired first. Also, the generator has an array of hydrogen generating elements arranged side by side and separated from one another into cells by partitioning provided with directional venting that only permits laterally exiting gases to vent outwardly. Alternatively, the elements can be separated into cells by a baffle system comprising gas confining and gas venting elements, which may be heat conductive.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 2008Date of Patent: April 8, 2014Assignee: Qinetiq LimitedInventors: Darren Paul Scattergood, Graham Manton, Gareth Thomas Flegg, Robert John Vere Churton, Philip Nicholas Barnes, William Ranulf Slee
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Patent number: 8685148Abstract: The present invention relates to a process and a plant for the treatment of the vented gas mixture from a deaerator of a steam production process associated with a hydrocarbon-reforming syngas production process.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2009Date of Patent: April 1, 2014Assignee: L'Air Liquide, Societe Anonyme Pour l'Etude et l'Exploitation des Procedes Georges ClaudeInventors: Pascal Marty, Marie-Pascal Victor, Alain Briglia
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Patent number: 8685281Abstract: The production of gasses and, more particularly, to systems and methods for the production of syngas and fuel gasses including the production of hydrogen are set forth. In one embodiment system and method includes a reactor having a molten pool of a material comprising sodium carbonate. A supply of conditioned water is in communication with the reactor. A supply of carbon containing material is also in communication with the reactor. In one particular embodiment, the carbon containing material may include vacuum residuum (VR). The water and VR may be kept at desired temperatures and pressures compatible with the process that is to take place in the reactor. When introduced into the reactor, the water, the VR and the molten pool may be homogenously mixed in an environment in which chemical reactions take place including the production of hydrogen and other gasses.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2011Date of Patent: April 1, 2014Assignee: Battelle Energy Alliance LLCInventors: Dennis N. Bingham, Kerry M. Kllingler, Terry D. Turner, Bruce M. Wilding, Bradley C. Benefiel
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Patent number: 8685121Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 10, 2010Date of Patent: April 1, 2014Assignee: Inentec Inc.Inventors: Jeffrey E. Surma, James A Batdorf
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Patent number: 8685365Abstract: Provided is a process and device for exchanging heat energy between three or more streams in a microchannel heat exchanger which can be integrated with a microchannel reactor to form an integrated microchannel processing unit. The combining of a plurality of integrated microchannel devices to provide the benefits of large-scale operation is enabled. In particular, the microchannel heat exchanger enables flexible heat transfer between multiple streams and total heat transfer rates of about 1 Watt or more per core unit volume expressed as W/cc.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2013Date of Patent: April 1, 2014Assignee: Velocys, Inc.Inventors: James A. Mathias, G. Bradley Chadwell, Annalee Y. Tonkovich, Steven T. Perry, Matthew B. Schmidt, Sean P. Fitzgerald, David J. Hesse, Thomas D. Yuschak, Bin Yang
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Patent number: 8685358Abstract: In various implementations, feed streams that include ultrapure, high-pressure hydrogen streams and ultrapure, high-pressure nitrogen streams are reacted to produce ultrapure, high-pressure feed gas in a stoichiometric ratio to an ammonia synthesis reactor loop without or independent of including a methanol loop purge gas.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 2011Date of Patent: April 1, 2014Assignee: GTLpetrol LLCInventor: Rodney J. Allam
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Patent number: 8673231Abstract: The present invention describes a vertical cylindrical exchanger-reactor for carrying out endothermic reactions, comprising a shell enclosing a plurality of tubes inside which the reactive fluid moves, said tubes being of the bayonet type, and the heat transfer fluid, in this case hot gases, being channeled inside chimneys surrounding said bayonet tubes. The bayonet tubes and the chimneys are suspended from the upper dome of the reactor. This reactor may operate with a pressure difference between the tube side and the shell of up to 100 bars. The hot gases are admitted into the reactor at temperatures of up to 1300° C.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2011Date of Patent: March 18, 2014Assignee: IFP Energies NouvellesInventors: Fabrice Giroudiere, Willi Nastoll, Beatrice Fischer, Didier Pavone, Herve Lavieu, Daniel Gonnet, Jean-Noel Leroux
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Patent number: 8673512Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 30, 2008Date of Patent: March 18, 2014Assignee: Nippon Oil CorporationInventor: Tomotaka Ishida
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Patent number: 8673035Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 15, 2011Date of Patent: March 18, 2014Assignees: The Regents of the University of Colorado, a body corporate, Alliance for Substainable Energy, LLCInventors: Alan W Weimer, Jaimee K Dahl, Allan A Lewandowski, Carl Bingham, Karen J Raska Buechler, Willy Grothe
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Publication number: 20140056803Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for converting methane in a feed stream to acetylene. The hydrocarbon stream is introduced into a supersonic reactor and pyrolyzed to convert at least a portion of the methane to acetylene. The reactor effluent stream may be treated to convert acetylene to nitrogen based hydrocarbon compounds such as pyridines. The method includes the reaction of acetylene with ammonia and controlling the ratio of acetylene to ammonia to generate the desired nitrogen based hydrocarbon compound.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 11, 2013Publication date: February 27, 2014Inventors: Jeffery C. Bricker, John Q. Chen, Peter K. Coughlin, Debarshi Majumder
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Publication number: 20140053561Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: September 30, 2013Publication date: February 27, 2014Inventors: Kan-Ern Liew, Michael Enzinger, Juergen Steinwandel
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Publication number: 20140054505Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: February 24, 2012Publication date: February 27, 2014Applicant: Rutgers, The State University of New JerseyInventors: Stephen D. Tse, Nasir K. Memon, Bernard H. Kear
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Patent number: 8647403Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 17, 2012Date of Patent: February 11, 2014Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventor: Paul Steven Wallace
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Patent number: 8636818Abstract: An apparatus which includes: a carbonizer (1) which pyrolyzes a biomass to yield a pyrolysis gas and a carbonization product; a furnace (2) in which the carbonization product supplied from the carbonizer (1) is burned; a closed vessel (3) which is disposed in the furnace (2) and holds therein a carbonate (4) which has been melted by the heat generated by the carbonization product burned in the furnace (2); an introduction pipe (5) disposed so that the pyrolysis gas is introduced into the molten carbonate (4) in the closed vessel (3); and a fuel gas supply pipe (6) disposed so that a fuel gas, which is the pyrolysis gas sent through the introduction pipe (5), passed through the molten carbonate (4), and purified by reaction with the molten carbonate (4), is sent from the closed vessel (3) to the outside of the furnace (2).Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 2009Date of Patent: January 28, 2014Assignee: Central Research Institute of Electric Power IndustryInventors: Makoto Kawase, Kazuyoshi Ichikawa, Maromu Ohtaka, Hiroshi Morita
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Patent number: 8623241Abstract: A method and apparatus for producing heat used in a synthesis gas production process is provided. The disclosed method and apparatus include a plurality of tubular oxygen transport membrane elements adapted to separate oxygen from an oxygen containing stream contacting the retentate side of the membrane elements. The permeated oxygen is combusted with a hydrogen containing synthesis gas stream contacting the permeate side of the tubular oxygen transport membrane elements thereby generating a reaction product stream and radiant heat. The present method and apparatus also includes at least one catalytic reactor containing a catalyst to promote the steam reforming reaction wherein the catalytic reactor is surrounded by the plurality of tubular oxygen transport membrane elements. The view factor between the catalytic reactor and the plurality of tubular oxygen transport membrane elements radiating heat to the catalytic reactor is greater than or equal to 0.5.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 2012Date of Patent: January 7, 2014Assignee: Praxair Technology, Inc.Inventors: Sean M. Kelly, Brian R. Kromer, Michael M. Litwin, Lee J. Rosen, Gervase Maxwell Christie, Jamie R. Wilson, Lawrence W. Kosowski, Charles Robinson
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Patent number: 8623240Abstract: A method for converting carbon monoxide and water into carbon dioxide and hydrogen, with simultaneous removal of one or more products, is described. The method includes the following steps: in a first reactor, carbon monoxide from the gas phase is bound in a first solvent and converted into formate, in a third reactor, formate is decomposed and resultant hydrogen H2 is removed, and in a second reactor a solid which is a hydrogen-carbonate salt or a carbonate salt is removed. The thermal decomposition of the solid and the expulsion of the carbon dioxide are carried out in an additional fourth reactor, optionally in a second solvent. Further presented is an apparatus for converting carbon monoxide and water into carbon dioxide and hydrogen, including a fourth reactor which thermally decomposes solids formed in the course of the reaction, and gives off carbon dioxide.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2010Date of Patent: January 7, 2014Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Manfred Baldauf, Carsten Graeber, Marc Hanebuth, Gerhard Zimmermann
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Patent number: 8617423Abstract: An H2- and CO-containing synthesis gas is made by separating coke-oven gas from a coke-oven process into hydrogen and a residual gas stream containing hydrocarbons and obtaining a CO-rich synthesis-gas stream from a top gas of a blast furnace. The hydrogen separated from the coke-oven gas is fed into the CO-rich synthesis gas stream obtained from the top gas of a blast furnace to make the synthesis gas, and the hydrocarbon-containing residual gas stream is fed into the blast furnace as feedstock.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 2010Date of Patent: December 31, 2013Assignee: Thyssenkrupp Uhde GmbHInventor: Johannes Menzel
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Patent number: 8608982Abstract: Systems and methods for producing a synthetic gas are provided. A feedstock can be gasified within a gasifier to produce a raw syngas. The raw syngas can be processed within a processing device to produce a processed syngas. The processed syngas can be separated into a vapor phase, an organic phase, and an aqueous phase within a separator. The organic phase can be introduced to the gasifier. The aqueous phase can be introduced to a stripper to provide steam and a condensate, and the steam can then be introduced to the gasifier.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 2012Date of Patent: December 17, 2013Assignee: Kellogg Brown & Root LLCInventors: John Abughazaleh, Siva Ariyapadi, David P. Mann
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Patent number: 8608981Abstract: Processing of wet biomass feedstock by liquid-phase catalytic hydrothermal gasification must address catalyst fouling and poisoning. One solution can involve heating the wet biomass with a heating unit to a pre-treatment temperature sufficient for organic constituents in the feedstock to decompose, for precipitates of inorganic wastes to form, for preheating the wet feedstock in preparation for subsequent removal of soluble sulfate contaminants, or combinations thereof. Processing further includes reacting the soluble sulfate contaminants with cations present in the feedstock material to yield a sulfate-containing precipitate and separating the inorganic precipitates and/or the sulfate-containing precipitates out of the wet feedstock. Having removed much of the inorganic wastes and the sulfate contaminants that can cause poisoning and fouling, the wet biomass feedstock can be exposed to the heterogeneous catalyst for gasification.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 2012Date of Patent: December 17, 2013Assignees: Battelle Memorial Institute, Genifuel CorporationInventors: Douglas C. Elliott, James Oyler
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Patent number: 8608814Abstract: Hydrogen-producing fuel processing assemblies and methods for delivering feedstock to a hydrogen-producing region of a hydrogen-producing fuel processing assembly. In some embodiments, the fuel processing assemblies include a feedstock delivery system that includes a pump assembly and a stall prevention mechanism that is adapted to reduce pressure in an outlet conduit during periods in which the pump assembly is not emitting a liquid outlet stream within or above a hydrogen-producing pressure range. In some embodiments, pressure in the outlet conduit is isolated from pressure in the hydrogen-producing region of the fuel processing assembly and is reduced during periods in which a liquid stream is not being pumped within or above a hydrogen-producing pressure range.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2012Date of Patent: December 17, 2013Assignee: DCNS SAInventor: Vernon Wade Popham
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Patent number: 8603430Abstract: Systems and methods for processing a methane rich producer gas are provided in which the producer gas is preferably produced via steam-hydrogasification. The product stream from the steam-hydrogasification is then subjected to autothermal reforming, steam is removed after the reforming step via condensation, and sulfur impurities are subsequently eliminated. In most preferred aspects, the process pressure is substantially maintained throughout all steps, typically in a range of 150 psi to 500 psi.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 2009Date of Patent: December 10, 2013Assignee: The Regents of the University of CaliforniaInventors: Joseph M. Norbeck, Chan Seung Park, Arun Sk Raju, Kiseok Kim
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Publication number: 20130323612Abstract: A desulfurization system includes: a fuel supply part for supplying a hydrocarbon-based fuel containing water and a sulfur compound to a subsequent stage; and a desulfurization part for desulfurizing the above hydrocarbon-based fuel supplied from the above fuel supply part, wherein, in the above desulfurization part, the above hydrocarbon-based fuel is brought into contact at a temperature of 65 to 105° C. with a catalyst prepared by loading silver on an X-type zeolite.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 26, 2011Publication date: December 5, 2013Applicant: JX NIPPON OIL & ENERGY CORPORATIONInventors: Kazunori Miyazawa, Manabu Kawabata, Hisao Sakoda, Kimika Ishizuki
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Publication number: 20130323614Abstract: Gas Stream Production The present invention provides a method for the production of carbon dioxide and/or hydrogen gas streams, the method comprising: (i) thermally treating a feedstock material to produce a syngas comprising carbon monoxide and hydrogen and plasma-treating the syngas in a plasma treatment unit; (ii) reacting the plasma-treated syngas with water in a further treatment unit, whereby at least some of the carbon monoxide is converted into carbon dioxide; and (iii) recovering hydrogen and/or, separately, carbon dioxide from the syngas.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 6, 2012Publication date: December 5, 2013Applicant: ADVANCED PLASMA POWER LIMITEDInventors: Chris Chapman, Rolf Stein, Martin Brooks, Edward S. Manukian, Robert M. Clark
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Patent number: 8597546Abstract: The present invention provides a process for preparing acetylene and synthesis gas by partial oxidation of hydrocarbons with oxygen, by first separately preheating the starting gases comprising a hydrocarbon-containing stream and an oxygen-containing stream and then mixing them in a mixing zone and, after they have flowed through the burner block, reacting them in the firing space and then cooling the products rapidly, wherein the surface on the firing space side of the burner block is covered with a purge gas stream and this purge gas stream is introduced through the burner block by means of several bores, where the averaged ratio of effective surface area of the burner block to number of these bores in the burner block for the purge gas stream is within a range from 5 to 100 cm2.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2011Date of Patent: December 3, 2013Assignee: BASF SEInventors: Michael Russ, Dirk Grossschmidt, Peter Renze, Maximilian Vicari, Horst Neuhauser, Kai Rainer Ehrhardt, Christian Weichert
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Patent number: 8591861Abstract: A production process includes combining a first feed stream and a second feed stream to produce, in a pre-reforming reactor, a first product stream comprising CH4 and H2O; wherein the first feed stream contains a mixture of H2 and at least one selected from the group consisting of hydrocarbons having two or more carbon atoms and alcohols having two or more carbon atoms, and the mixture has a hydrogen stoichiometric ratio (?) of at least 0.1, and the second feed stream contains steam; feeding the first product stream into a reforming reactor; and reacting the first product stream in the reforming reactor to produce a second product stream containing CO and H2; and a catalyst for use in the process. Conversion of the second product stream to synthetic crude, methanol, higher alcohols, and/or DME may also be undertaken. Yet further conversion of a synthetic crude to lubricants, diesel and the like, and/or the alcohols/DME to gasoline, olefins, and/or other oxygenates may also be included.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 2008Date of Patent: November 26, 2013Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Franklin D. Lomax, Rama A. Zakaria, Maxim Lyubovsky, Stephen C. Leviness
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Publication number: 20130309164Abstract: Reactor vessels with pressure and heat transfer features for producing hydrogen-based fuels and structural elements, and associated systems and methods. A representative reactor system includes a first reaction zone and a heat path, a reactant source coupled to the first reaction zone, and a first actuator coupled to cyclically pressurize the first reaction zone. A second reaction zone is in fluid communication with the first, a valve is coupled between the first and second reaction zones to control a flow rate therebetween, and a second actuator is coupled in fluid communication with the second reaction zone to cyclically pressurize the second reaction zone. First and second heat exchangers direct heat from products to reactants in the reaction zones. A controller controls the first and second actuators in a coordinated manner based at least in part on a flow rate of the second product from the second reaction zone.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 26, 2012Publication date: November 21, 2013Inventor: Roy Edward McAlister
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Publication number: 20130309163Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: April 8, 2013Publication date: November 21, 2013Applicant: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.Inventors: Xiang-Dong Peng, Geoffrey Colling Achilles, Blaine Edward Herb, Eric Howard Klingenberg, Derek Miller
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Patent number: 8586254Abstract: An exemplary embodiment and associated method of use discloses a reversible hydrogen storage system that liberates hydrogen and a perlithiohydrocarbon compound by destabilization of a hydrocarbon source or sources with lithium hydride (LiH). The liberated hydrogen may be subsequently utilized in a coupled end-use application.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2011Date of Patent: November 19, 2013Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventor: John J. Vajo
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Patent number: 8580152Abstract: The present disclosure is generally directed to process of gasification of carbonaceous materials to produce synthesis gas or syngas. The present disclosure provides improved methods of gasification comprising adding a molecular oxygen-containing gas and optionally adding water into said gasifier. This disclosure is also directed to process of production of one or more alcohols from said syngas via fermentation or digestion in the presence of at least one microorganism.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2010Date of Patent: November 12, 2013Assignee: INEOS USA LLCInventors: Bhagya Chandra Sutradhar, Ching-Whan Ko
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Patent number: 8574326Abstract: Method and apparatus for generating a low tar, renewable fuel gas from biomass and using it in other energy conversion devices, many of which were designed for use with gaseous and liquid fossil fuels. An automated, downdraft gasifier incorporates extensive air injection into the char bed to maintain the conditions that promote the destruction of residual tars. The resulting fuel gas and entrained char and ash are cooled in a special heat exchanger, and then continuously cleaned in a filter prior to usage in standalone as well as networked power systems.Type: GrantFiled: February 15, 2011Date of Patent: November 5, 2013Assignee: Afognak Native CorporationInventors: James P. Diebold, Arthur Lilley, Kingsbury Browne, III, Robb Ray Walt, Dustin Duncan, Michael Walker, John Steele, Michael Fields, Trevor Smith
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Patent number: 8551444Abstract: Embodiments of a compact pressure swing reformer are disclosed. Certain embodiments have a construction comprising multiple rotating reformer beds, high temperature rotary valves at the bed ends, and E-seals to seal the beds to the valves. Several possible designs for introducing reactants into the beds also are disclosed. The multiple reformer beds are configured to provide for pressure equalization and ‘steam push’. The compact pressure swing reformer is suitable for use in fuel cell vehicle applications.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 2007Date of Patent: October 8, 2013Assignee: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.Inventors: Rajeev Agnihotri, Soheil Alizadeh-Khiavi, Paul Berlowitz, Brooke Cox, Bruce Derites, Jeffrey Frederick, Jeffrey Grenda, Kamal Hatami, Frank Hershkowitz, Zhiguo Hou, Daryl Musselman, Novica Rados, John Siller, Richard Socha, George Walchuk
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Patent number: 8545725Abstract: A process for carrying out a carbon monoxide shift reaction is provided. In the implementation of the carbon monoxide shift reaction, including the conversion of carbon monoxide and water into carbon dioxide and hydrogen, this conversion takes place in the liquid phase and involves separation of the product gases carbon dioxide and/or hydrogen, where as a first solvent dry methanol is used, for the absorption of carbon monoxide with simultaneous formation of a methyl formate, as a second solvent, in the area of release of the product gases, water is used, for avoiding hydrogen losses in a carbon dioxide area.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 2010Date of Patent: October 1, 2013Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Manfred Baldauf, Carsten Graeber, Marc Hanebuth, Gerhard Zimmermann
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Patent number: 8535638Abstract: The present invention provides a process for recovering hydrogen and carbon dioxide from a process stream of a process unit wherein the process stream contains at least carbon dioxide, hydrogen, and methane.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2010Date of Patent: September 17, 2013Assignees: Air Liquide Large Industries U.S., L'Air Liquide, Societe Anonyme pour l'Etude et l'Exploitation des Procedes Georges ClaudeInventors: Paul Terrien, Trapti Chaubey, Purushottam V. Shanbhag, Bhadra S. Grover, Dennis A. Vauk, Arthur Darde
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Patent number: 8529865Abstract: Processes for making hydrogen and optionally carbon monoxide and their integrations in a Carbon-to-Liquids plant are disclosed. A first syngas produced by a first syngas generator is converted in a hydrocarbon synthesis process to hydrocarbon products, oxygenates and product water comprising dissolved oxygenates. The first syngas generator may use partial oxidation, reforming, gasifying, or pyrolysis of any solid, liquid or gaseous carbonaceous feedstock. The product water may be treated, for example by distillation and/or by stripping, to form an oxygenates-rich stream which comprises a reforming reactant and oxygenates originating from the product water. Oxygenates from the oxygenates-rich stream fed to a second syngas generator are converted under reforming conditions to form at least hydrogen. The hydrogen formed by reforming may be supplied to one or more units using hydrogen within a Carbon-to-Liquids plant.Type: GrantFiled: February 29, 2008Date of Patent: September 10, 2013Assignee: Phillips 66 CompanyInventors: Barbara A. Belt, Sara Irina Kopponen, Ralph T. Goodwin, III, Mariella L. Raven, Blaine E. Beck
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Process for the production of hydrogen by steam reforming an oil cut with optimized steam production
Patent number: 8529866Abstract: The present invention describes a process for the production of hydrogen by steam reforming an oil cut using a hot vector gas, in which the steam produced by the process is used in its entirety in said process, a first portion of the steam being introduced as a mixture with the feed, and the second portion supplying the steam turbine driving the compressor for pressurizing the hot vector gas.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2011Date of Patent: September 10, 2013Assignee: IFP Energies NouvellesInventors: Beatrice Fischer, Fabrice Giroudiere -
Patent number: 8529644Abstract: Disclosed are a method and a corresponding apparatus for converting a biomass reactant into synthesis gas. The method includes the steps of (1) heating biomass in a first molten liquid bath at a first temperature, wherein the first temperature is at least about 100° C., but less than the decomposition temperature of the biomass, wherein gas comprising water is evaporated and air is pressed from the biomass, thereby yielding dried biomass with minimal air content. (2) Recapturing the moisture evaporated from the biomass in step 1 for use in the process gas. (3) Heating the dried biomass in a second molten liquid bath at a second temperature, wherein the second temperature is sufficiently high to cause flash pyrolysis of the dried biomass, thereby yielding product gases, tar, and char. (4) Inserting recaptured steam into the process gas, which may optionally include external natural gas or hydrogen gas or recycled syngas for mixing and reforming with tar and non-condensable gases.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 2010Date of Patent: September 10, 2013Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of AgricultureInventors: Mark A. Dietenberger, Mark H. Anderson
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Patent number: 8529792Abstract: A process and device is provided for the generation and purification of a crude gas for synthesis gas generation from a solid carbon-containing fuel by a coal gasification reaction. The fuel is mixed with a quenching medium directly after generation to dissipate the high internal energy and is then brought into contact with a solid basic alkaline earth metal compound or a sorbent consisting of a transition metal-containing compound just in the mixing chamber or downstream of the mixing chamber such that the acidic or basic or sulfur-containing or halogen-containing constituents contained in the crude gas and originating from the gasification reaction are absorbed. A solids-separating device downstream of the sorbent feed device removes the solid or solidified constituents from the system.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2008Date of Patent: September 10, 2013Assignee: UHDE GmbHInventor: Johannes Kowoll
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Publication number: 20130230449Abstract: Partial oxidation/steam reformers (222) which use heat integrated steam cycles and steam to carbon ratios of at least about 4:1 to enable efficient operation at high pressures suitable for hydrogen purification unit operation such as membrane separation (234) and pressure swing adsorption.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 17, 2013Publication date: September 5, 2013Inventors: Kishore J. DOSHI, Bradley P. RUSSELL, Brandon S. CARPENTER
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Patent number: 8524187Abstract: A VOC treatment apparatus is provided for treating substantially opaque VOCs and comprises a processing chamber (24) in which VOCs are treated; and a solar energy introducing device (8). The solar energy introducing device (8) comprises a tubular structure having a first end located external to the processing chamber (24) and having a first inlet (14) through which concentrated sunlight is received and a second inlet (16) through which a flow of substantially optically transmittant gas is received. The solar energy introducing device (8) has a second end (18) that opens into the processing chamber (24) and terminates in a nozzle providing an outlet for the substantially optically transmittant gas and the concentrated sunlight. In use the optically transmittant gas exits the second end of the device in a jet to create an optically transmittant zone in the substantially opaque VOCs within the processing chamber (24), in which zone the sunlight can travel.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 2011Date of Patent: September 3, 2013Assignee: Chinook Sciences LimitedInventors: Rifat Al Chalabi, Ophneil Henry Perry
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Patent number: 8522573Abstract: A system for conversion of waste and solar heat energy into a carbon sequestration device, including as a collector for collecting carbon dioxide gas from a carbon dioxide gas source, such as ambient air. The Joule Thompson effect is used to cool and thereby refrigerate/liquefy ambient air and then extracting carbon dioxide therefrom, comprising steps of and means for providing a hydride heat engine, operating the hydride heat engine utilizing hydride thermal compression technology to compress hydrogen gas and thereby to cool ambient air to a temperature rendering air into a refrigerated/liquefied state by use of a Joule-Thompson type process, and extracting carbon dioxide from the refrigerated/liquefied ambient air and collecting the carbon dioxide.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2012Date of Patent: September 3, 2013Assignee: Ergenics CorporationInventor: P. Mark Golben
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Patent number: 8518301Abstract: A synthetic gas containing hydrogen and carbon monoxide is efficiently obtained by reacting a hydrocarbon feedstock gas with carbon dioxide under pressure, while suppressing carbon deposition. The pressure is preferably 3 atmospheres (0.304 MPa), and used is a carbon dioxide reforming catalyst that contains at least one alkaline earth metal carbonate a catalytic metal promoting the decomposition reaction of a hydrocarbon feedstock gas, at least one alkaline earth metal selected from the group consisting of Ca, Sr, and Ba, and a complex oxide containing at least one component selected from the group consisting of Ti, Al, Zr, Fe, W, and Mo, such as ATiO3, AAl2O4, AZrO3, AFe2O4, A3W2O9, A2WO5, or AMoO4, where A is at least one of Ca, Sr, and Ba.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2010Date of Patent: August 27, 2013Assignee: Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hideto Sato, Yoshinori Saito