Abstract: A plasma-based fuel reformer in which a fuel/air mixture is subjected to an electrical plasma arc that reforms the fuel/air mixture into a hydrogen-rich gas. The reformer includes a first electrode defining a reaction chamber and a second electrode axially aligned with the longitudinal axis of the first electrode. A plasma arc forms between the first and the second electrodes in the reaction chamber when an electrical voltage is applied. An insulator is positioned between the first and the second electrode to prevent the formation of a plasma arc between the first and the second electrodes except in the reaction chamber. Means for providing a fuel/air mixture to the reaction chamber and means for diverting the air flow into the reaction chamber so as to create a vortex-like flow of air in the reaction chamber are also included.

Abstract: A plasma-based fuel reformer in which a fuel/air mixture is subjected to conditions including an electrical plasma arc that reforms the fuel air mixture into a hydrogen-rich gas. The reformer includes a first electrode having an inner and outer wall and a longitudinal axis, the inner wall defining a reaction chamber and a second electrode, the second electrode being axially aligned with the longitudinal axis of the first electrode. The second electrode is positioned in the reaction chamber such that when an electrical voltage is applied to the first and second electrodes a plasma arc forms between the first and the second electrode in the reaction chamber. An insulator is positioned between the first and the second electrode so as to prevent the formation of a plasma arc between the first and the second electrodes except in the reaction chamber.