Abstract: A portable catalytic combustion heater, wherein fuel vapor (11) and air (10) are supplied to a catalyst (6) which promotes the flameless combustion of fuel and releases that. The fuel is supplied as a liquid, passes through a selectively permeable membrane (8) such as fuel vapor exits the membrane and is fed to the catalyst (6). Additional features include porous supports and means of enhancing and diminishing the catalytic rate of combustion and controlling the heat output.

Abstract: A field ration packaging assembly includes a ration housing and a food tray. The ration housing includes a lid panel having at least one air exhaust vent and a wall panel having at least one intake vent. The food tray may be positioned above a heat source. The at least one air exhaust vent and at least one air intake vent may be in fluid communication such that upon activation of the heat source, air enters the ration housing through the at least one air intake vent, passes over the heat source and exits the ration housing at the at least one exhaust vent by natural convection.

Abstract: The present invention is a method of delivering vaporized alcohol fuel through a thermally conductive porous nozzle to a catalytic burner with a plasma cavity and a surrounding porous catalytic cavity with fuel vapor and air supplied separately and inter diffusing into each other from different routes to the catalyst to achieve an efficient, steady, and complete combustion of the hydrogen bearing fuels. This heating system with passive auto thermostatic behavior, coupled to thermopiles, heat pipes and fluid heating systems may provide useful heat and electricity to applications of floors, roadways, runways, electronics, refrigerators, machinery, automobiles, structures, and fuel cells.

Abstract: The present invention is an assembly for transporting, storing, and delivering a fuel such that a compromise to the containment of the fuel is readily recognized.