Abstract: A processing vessel is loaded with a feedstock including organic material and at least one additive which is non-inert to the organic material. A bottom portion of the feedstock is heated to a pyrolytic state for producing a horizontal thermal layer within the feedstock which thermally decomposes organic material into carbon as the non-inert additive reacts with the organic material. Vapor is directed downwardly through the feedstock while discharging volatile organic compounds from a lower portion of the chamber. Prior to complete thermal decomposition of the feedstock, the direction of vapor flow within the feedstock is reversed wherein the vapor flows upwardly through the feedstock while the volatile compounds are discharged from an upper portion of the chamber. Pressure and vapor flow within the chamber are regulated during upward vapor flow to regulate vertical movement of the thermal layer within the feedstock for controlling the extent of thermal decomposition of the feedstock.

Abstract: A processing vessel is loaded with a feedstock including organic material and at least one additive which is non-inert to the organic material. A bottom portion of the feedstock is heated to a pyrolytic state for producing a horizontal thermal layer within the feedstock which thermally decomposes organic material into carbon as the non-inert additive reacts with the organic material. Vapor is directed downwardly through the feedstock while discharging volatile organic compounds from a lower portion of the chamber. Prior to complete thermal decomposition of the feedstock, the direction of vapor flow within the feedstock is reversed wherein the vapor flows upwardly through the feedstock while the volatile compounds are discharged from an upper portion of the chamber. Pressure and vapor flow within the chamber are regulated during upward vapor flow to regulate vertical movement of the thermal layer within the feedstock for controlling the extent of thermal decomposition of the feedstock.