Abstract: In various aspects, molten carbonate fuel cell configurations are provided that include a reforming catalyst and alkali traps integrated with one or more structures within the anode gas-collection volume. The purpose of the reforming catalyst is to reform methane (or some other reformable fuel) into hydrogen. In operation, alkali metals may migrate from the fuel cell electrolyte into the anode. Unless trapped, the alkali metals may deactivate the reforming catalyst. The alkali trap prolongs the operating life of reforming catalyst within the anode volume by capturing some portion of the alkali metal in the anode gas-collection volume. This reduces an amount of alkali metal that interacts with the reforming catalyst in the anode gas-collection volume. The prolonged life of the reforming catalyst prevents a decrease in catalyst activity.

Abstract: Processes for forming refined hydrocarbons are disclosed. Exemplary processes include providing a first mixture comprising ?10 wt % of at least one oxygenate; contacting at least a portion of the first mixture with a methanol conversion catalyst under suitable conditions including a first pressure, P1, to yield an intermediate composition including olefins having at least two carbon atoms; introducing at least a portion of the intermediate composition to an oligomerization catalyst under suitable conditions including a second pressure, P2, to yield an effluent mixture comprising gasoline boiling range components and distillate boiling range components; and recovering at least a portion of the gasoline boiling range components and distillate boiling range components. The first and second pressure can be relatively similar. Apparatus and systems for carrying out the disclosed processes are also described.