Abstract: An apparatus and method for the manipulation of selected substances—such as long chain hydrocarbons—in order to create resulting substances having shorter chain lengths. The method also produces heat and electricity as byproducts. Significantly, the chain length reduction is accomplished without an oxidation-reduction reaction such as found in combustion. Thus, no significant amount of greenhouse gasses are produced. A hydrocarbon-containing fuel is converted into a plasma within an accelerator chamber. The plasma interacts with one or more target systems which intrude upon the flow. Electron removal devices are used to remove free electrons from the plasma, after which the fuel is decelerated and cooled. The cooled fuel contains altered molecules due to the removal of the free electrons.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling and extinguishing subterranean coal fires. Suitable detection and measuring devices are initially used to determine the extent of the fire and develop a plan of extinguishment. Flow control devices are added to all the mine's access points in order to control gas flow into and/or out of the mine. In addition, new access points may be added. Gaseous carbon dioxide is pumped into the mine until a positive pressure is developed (with respect to atmospheric pressure. Pressurized and liquefied carbon dioxide is directed into the area of the combustion face. The liquid carbon dioxide blankets the combustion area with a gas which will not support combustion and absorbs a tremendous amount of heat from the burning coal.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling and extinguishing subterranean coal fires. Suitable detection and measuring devices are initially used to determine the extent of the fire and develop a plan of extinguishment. Flow control devices are added to all the mine's access points in order to control gas flow into and/or out of the mine. In addition, new access points may be added. Gaseous carbon dioxide is pumped into the mine until a positive pressure is developed (with respect to atmospheric pressure. Pressurized and liquefied carbon dioxide is directed into the area of the combustion face. The liquid carbon dioxide blankets the combustion area with a gas which will not support combustion and absorbs a tremendous amount of heat from the burning coal.