Abstract: A method for producing methane by hydrolysis of aluminum carbide, the aluminum carbide being formed by reduction of aluminum hydroxide/aluminum oxide with carbon derived from low grade coal in the presence of a catalyst at a temperature of at least 1250.degree. C. The hydrolysis of aluminum carbide in the presence of an acid catalyst forms aluminum hydroxide and methane, and the aluminim hydroxide, along with admixed impurities, is returned to the reducing step.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for producing methane by hydrolysis of aluminum carbide, the aluminum carbide being formed by reduction of aluminum hydroxide/aluminum oxide with carbon derived from low grade coal in the presence of a catalyst at a temperature of at least 1250.degree. C. The hydrolysis of aluminum carbide in the presence of an acid catalyst forms aluminum hydroxide and methane, and the aluminum hydroxide, along with admixed impurities, is returned to the reducing step.

Abstract: A replaceable electrode primary battery utilizing hollow zinc anodic electrodes and hollow nickel oxide cathodic electrodes immersed in a potassium hydroxide electrolyte solution. The electrodes are arranged in stacks formed by electrically conducting guides contacting the outer surfaces of the spherical electrodes, the respective guides forming the battery anode and cathode. Fresh electrodes are added to the top of the stack from a supply of electrodes, causing a spent electrode to be ejected from the bottom of the stack. The ejected electrode floats to the surface of the electrolyte solution and is collected in a holding compartment. The spent electrodes may be reused by electroplating the appropriate material on the outer surface of the spherical shell. The battery finds particular utility with electric vehicles where electrodes may be dispensed from conventional filling stations.