Abstract: A method is taught for oxidatively reforming a fuel that is part of a fuel rich feed stream. The method involves the catalytic partial oxidation of a portion of the fuel followed by the catalytic reforming of a portion of the fuel. The method is conducted within a single catalytic bed wherein the feed stream experiences a generally decreasing mass flux as it passes therethrough. An optional step referred to as equilibration may occur after the conclusion of the catalytic reforming. An apparatus incorporating the method is a catalytic bed wherein the area of the entrance and exit are sized such that partial oxidation and reforming occurs within portions of the catalytic bed and the mass flux of a feed stream therethrough will generally decrease.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for flame stabilization immediately downstream of a plurality of discrete fuel and air streams, prior to the mixing of the fuel and air, thereby preventing auto-ignition and flashback events. Coplanar and interspersed discrete fuel and air streams are introduced into a multiple channel monolith that imparts a swirl to the fuel and air streams, promotes immediate mixing, and initiates recirculation of the fuel and air mixture in a downstream combustion zone while promoting micro-scale vortex breakdown.

Abstract: The present invention is a retainer for use in a catalytic reactor that can retain and buttress an element subjected to forces applied substantially in one direction. The retainer defines a bearing surface for buttressing the element having a fluid flowing therethrough. The retainer is comprised of a plurality of members that if given the proper aspect ratio can condition the flow of a fluid through the reactor.

Abstract: The present invention is a method and a system for the gasification of a liquid fuel and includes providing a supply of a liquid fuel and an oxidant, atomizing the liquid fuel and mixing it with the oxidant, catalytically reacting the fuel oxidant mixture, and providing an ignition source for initiating the catalytic reaction. A hydrocarbon fuel can be mixed with oxygen, as a constituent of air, preferably forming a fuel rich fuel air mixture that passes through a catalytic reactor having an ultra-short channel length metal monolith substrate. The fuel air mixture is vaporized and partially oxidized.

Abstract: The invention disclosed is a method for improving the selectivity of a desired chemical reaction over an undesired chemical reaction utilizing a reactor having at least one channel having a catalyst positioned thereon and a presenting a reactant flow stream at a known flow rate and inlet temperature over the catalyst at a velocity such that a boundary layer formed thereby relative to said catalytic surface defines a thickness that is sufficiently less than the thickness of a fully developed boundary layer over said catalytic surface whereby the desired chemical reaction occurs preferentially over the undesired chemical reaction.

Abstract: A catalytic burner wherein a liquid fuel is evaporated prior to catalytic combustion by employing an electrosprayer. The catalytic burner can be made into an electrical generator by the use of a thermal to electrical energy conversion (TEEC) module.

Abstract: The invention is a method and apparatus for use therewith for the combustion of methane. The method employs reformation of methane and oxygen in fuel-rich proportions into carbon monoxide and hydrogen and residual methane. The carbon monoxide, hydrogen and residual methane is then combined with oxidant in fuel lean proportions to continue oxidation in a porous media that absorbs some of the heat of oxidation and radiates the heat as infrared radiation.

Abstract: The present invention is a retainer and a method of manufacture therefor that can incorporate the ability to condition the flow of a fluid therethrough. The retainer defines an bearing surface for buttressing an element having a fluid flowing therethrough. The retainer is comprised of a plurality of members that if given the proper aspect ratio can condition the flow of a fluid.

Abstract: A catalytic reactor with an auxiliary heating structure for raising the temperature of a fluid passing therethrough whereby the catalytic reaction is promoted. The invention is a apparatus employing multiple electrical heating elements electrically isolated from one another by insulators that are an integral part of the flow path. The invention provides step heating of a fluid as the fluid passes through the reactor.

Abstract: Short channel metal catalysts are mounted on the face of conventional monolithic automotive catalysts to assure exhaust gas does not by-pass the short channel metal catalysts.