Abstract: A novel process and apparatus for power generation from biomass and other carbonaceous feedstocks are provided. The process integrates a pulse combustor steam reformer with a gas turbine to generate electricity such that (i) efficiency is higher than those of conventional and current advanced power systems, (ii) emissions are lower than those proposed in the new environmental regulations, and (iii) performance is comparable to that of combined cycle, even though a bottoming cycle is not included here. The pulse combustor steam reformer generates a hydrogen-rich, medium-Btu fuel gas that is fired in a gas turbine to generate electricity. The apparatus may be configured to produce only power or combined heat and power.

Abstract: A gasifier system and process comprises a pulse combustion device in communication with a fluid channel for producing a gas stream having heat or fuel value. The pulse combustion device is operated under sub-stoichiometric conditions such that combustion and steam reforming both occur in the fluid channel. The pulse combustion device also produces a pulsating combustion product stream and an acoustic pressure wave. The acoustic pressure wave serves to cause agglomeration of particles contained within the combustion stream for easy removal. In one embodiment, a sulfur capturing agent is injected into the fluid channel for not only removing sulfur from the combustion product stream but for also facilitating particle agglomeration. Ultimately, a gas stream containing hydrogen is produced that may be used in various processes, such as in the production of electricity.

Abstract: Disclosed is a pulsed dryer and a pulsed drying system. The dryer includes a pulse combustor fluid dynamically coupled to a drying chamber. The pulsed dryer can be any suitable type of dryer, for example a pulsed spray dryer or a pulsed fluid bed dryer. The pulse combustor can fire the dried fines or employ auxiliary fuel such as natural gas, propane, etc. The system can include a steam or heat transfer fluid thermal circuit for providing heat to the drying chamber and optionally for cooling the pulse combustor flue gases prior to flow into the drying chamber. The disclosed dryers and systems can be advantageously utilized for wet feedstock in general and in particular for drying biomass or other organic type feedstock.