Abstract: A catalytically activated vacuum distillation system, several novel component parts of said system, a process for producing carbon based products and novel carbon black that is produced from such a system and process.

Abstract: A method of obtaining a supply of a synthetic combustible gas having enhanced combustion properties by providing a fluid containing a carbonaceous material, creating an electric arc between spaced electrodes under the fluid to generate a combustible gas, and collecting the gas to obtain the supply of the combustible gas. An apparatus for obtaining a supply of a combustible gas having enhanced combustion properties includes a fluid containing a carbonaceous material, a vessel for retaining the fluid, spaced electrodes positioned in the vessel below the fluid, means for creating an electric arc between the spaced electrodes to generate a combustible gas, and means for collecting the gas for obtaining the supply of the gas.