Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for using a reverse flow reactor (or another reactor with flows in opposing directions at different parts of a process cycle) for pyrolysis of hydrocarbons. The systems and methods can include a reactor that includes a combustion catalyst to initiate and/or maintain combustion within the reactor in a controlled manner during the heating and/or regeneration portion(s) of the reaction cycle. A fuel can also be used that has a greater resistance to auto-combustion, such as a fuel that is composed primarily of methane and/or other hydrocarbons. During operation, the temperature in at least an initial portion of the reactor can be maintained at a temperature so that auto-ignition of the auto-combustion resistant fuel injected during the heating step(s) is reduced or minimized. This can allow combustion to be initiated when the auto-combustion resistant fuel comes into contact with the catalyst.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
December 7, 2021
Date of Patent:
October 3, 2023
Assignee:
EXXONMOBIL TECHNOLOGY AND ENGINEERING COMPANY
Inventors:
Brian M. Weiss, Sophie Liu, Michael R. Harper, Jr., Herbert W. Barry, Changmin Chun, Barrington S. Goldson, Justin R. Johnson, Faria Nusrat