Abstract: A method for producing hydrogen in an energy efficient manner wherein steam and methane are reacted to produce synthesis gas from which hydrogen is recovered, and heat employed in the process is recovered using a defined regenerative bed system.

Abstract: A method for producing hydrogen in an energy efficient manner wherein steam and methane are reacted to produce synthesis gas from which hydrogen is recovered, and heat employed in the process is recovered using a defined regenerative bed system.

Abstract: A reaction vessel for the production of synthesis gas that contains four subassemblies: (1) a first heat exchanger that transfers heat between two low pressure streams (an oxygen containing stream and an oxygen depleted stream); (2) a second heat exchanger that transfers heat between two high pressure fluid streams (a hydrocarbon-containing reactant stream and a synthesis gas product stream); (3) mixed conductor ceramic membranes; and (4) a catalyst bed. Each of these subassemblies are configured so that they freely expand or contract independently from each other, and to thus avoid inducing high mechanical loads and damaging material stresses.

Abstract: A joint assembly for joining a ceramic membrane of tubular form to a tube sheet used in supporting the ceramic membrane within a reactor. The ceramic membrane is received within a fixture connected to the tube sheet and a follower, extending into the fixture, exerts a force on a high temperature sealing element located between the fixture and the ceramic membrane to effect a seal and to hold the ceramic membrane in place. The force can be exerted directly on the sealing element or on the ceramic membrane itself.

Abstract: A joint assembly for joining a ceramic membrane of tubular form to a tube sheet used in supporting the ceramic membrane within a reactor. The ceramic membrane is received within a fixture connected to the tube sheet and a follower, extending into the fixture, exerts a force on a high temperature sealing element located between the fixture and the ceramic membrane to effect a seal and to hold the ceramic membrane in place. The force can be exerted directly on the sealing element or on the ceramic membrane itself.

Abstract: A vertical shaft furnace for the pyrolysis of pelletized refuse, having a hearth in the base provided with a refuse bed support structure comprising a plurality of cooled, refractory support members, extending radially inward from the wall toward the axis of the hearth. The support structure is characterized by having a plurality of peripheral spaces extending through side structure and converging in the downward direction, each of the peripheral spaces being formed, at least in part, by the side wall surfaces of adjacent support members and the inside surface of the hearth.