Abstract: According to one embodiment, a portable fuel system includes a container that includes a closed end and an open end. The system also includes a fuel element that includes a compressed homogenous mixture of a cellulose-containing material and a hardened wax material. The fuel element is removably positionable within the container. The system also includes a spacer that is positionable within the container between the closed end of the container and the fuel element. The spacer supports the fuel element on the closed end such that air is flowable between the fuel element and the closed end. The system further includes a cooking surface that is couplable to the open end of the container.

Abstract: A method or process for creating ecologically friendly organically composed fuel bricks whose composition includes, but is not limited to, the following ingredients: 58 to 60 per cent decomposed straw, 38 per cent horse or cow manure, two per cent hay mixture from various blends used as feed, and two per cent straw dust from material pounded on by animals wherein the above ingredients are subjected to a number of processing steps with the end product being a hydraulically compressed fuel brick, block, briquette, blank, pellet, etc., weighing approximately two pounds and dried to a less than 10 per cent moisture content. While the process is primarily applicable to the creation of eco friendly organic fuel bricks, it is conceivably possible that other ingredients than those to be described hereinafter could undergone the discloses process to produce other types of fuel items, both organic and inorganic, with the ingredients comprising wood chips, other kinds of animal manure, and wood chips.

Abstract: The present invention relates to solid compounds which generate hydrogen by combustion, and to a method for generating hydrogen based on the combustion of said compounds. Said compounds have a composition which includes at least one inorganic borohydride, selected from alkali borohydrides, alkaline-earth borohydrides and mixtures thereof, and at least one inorganic oxidant. Characteristically, said composition comprises sulfur. Said method is advantageously implemented for supplying hydrogen to a fuel cell.

Abstract: A biomass fuel compact is provided by the present disclosure that includes a body having a combustible biomass composition and an adhesive additive. The adhesive additive includes a starch and a hydroxide. Further additives may also be provided, which include a silicate additive, a viscosity additive, a preservative, and a BTU additive, wherein each of the silicate additive, the viscosity additive, the preservative, and the BTU additive are combustible materials. Various geometries and compositions for the biomass fuel compact are also provided by the present disclosure.

Abstract: A solid fuel molded out of a mixture of wood pieces having a size of 1 to 25 mm, paper pieces having a size of 1 to 25 mm and thermoplastic resin, wherein the mixture contains 80 to 95 parts by weight of the total of the wood pieces and the paper pieces and 5 to 15 parts by weight of the thermoplastic resin, and the weight ratio of the wood pieces to the paper pieces is 20:80 to 90:10. The solid fuel which generates a stable amount of heat is manufactured by using waste wood, waste paper and waste thermoplastic resin in a well-balanced ratio.

Abstract: An environmentally-safe, disposable, and combustible charcoal-based heat source includes a first chimney structure and a second wall structure surrounding the chimney structure. An inner chimney flue receives air for igniting and burning the charcoal-based heat source and an outer chimney flue exhausts combustion fumes from the charcoal-based heat source. A bottom wall member secures to the inner chimney flue and the outer chimney flue and forms of a combustible material to be consumed during the ignition and burning of the charcoal-based fuel. A top wall member secures to the inner chimney flue and the outer chimney flue to be consumed during the ignition of the charcoal-based fuel. A plurality of exhaust apertures are arranged within the top wall for exhausting the combustion fumes from the outer chimney flue. An ignition ring establishes a sustained ignition of sufficient duration to ignite uniformly the charcoal-based fuel. A plurality of flaps provide an initial ignition of the ignition ring.

Abstract: In accordance with the present invention a disposable fuel cartridge for use in fireplaces that self regulates the shape, height, width, depth and burn time of the flames produced when the fuel inside the cartridge, such as alcohol gel, is exposed to ambient air and ignited, where the cartridge makes efficient use of fuel so as to produce a desirable, generally rectangular flame pattern without the need for any additional components, such as rectangular “fuel cells” or rectangular damper lids placed over the “fuel cells”.

Abstract: A hydrogen generator includes a plurality of fuel sticks each of which includes a hydrogen release compound configured to generate hydrogen by a chemical reaction, a pressure-resistant container configured to store therein the plurality of fuel sticks, and a controller configured to carry out control in such a manner that hydrogen is generated selectively from the plurality of fuel sticks.

Abstract: Combustible packages for containing a fuel source and a fire started are provided. A combustible package may include a cardboard outer wall and top and bottom lids for substantially closing top and bottom openings defined by the outer wall. Each lid may define a central panel for extending across an opening and a plurality of tabs for facilitating a press fit between the lids and the outer wall. Each lid may also define a central opening for receiving an end of a fire starter. The fire starter may be wound paper tube impregnated with an accelerant. The fuel source may be a plurality of charcoal briquettes contained between the outer wall, the top and bottom lids and the fire starter. The outer wall may define one or more ventilation openings between the bottom edge and the bottom lid. Or the bottom edge may be scalloped to provide ventilation openings.

Abstract: A method of transforming a crop waste into a solid fuel includes the steps of dehydrating the crop waste such as rice husks, rice stalks, hays, or plant stems to have a water content of from 18% to 30% by weight, smashing and stirring; adding an additive having clay ingredient, and compressing at a temperature of 150 to 210 degrees Celsius and a pressure of 300 Psi/cm2 to 600 Psi/cm2 to form a block-shaped fuel.

Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a method for producing a highly safe solid fuel for fuel cells having excellent handleability, a highly safe solid fuel for fuel cells having excellent handleability, and a fuel cell using such a solid fuel for fuel cells. In a method for producing a solid fuel for fuel cells in which a coating film is formed on the surface of a porous material containing a fuel for fuel cells, the coating film is formed by polyvinyl alcohol, and the fuel for fuel cells is introduced into the porous material before and/or after formation of the coating film on the surface of the porous material.

Abstract: A Novel fuel object comprised of a proportion of switch grass and a proportion of wood fiber combined with a basically reacting compound. The fuel comprises fiber of the appropriate size and moisture content combined with an inorganic base. An appropriately sized fuel object is readily manufactured, provides high heat output, is consistent in fuel characteristics, and is sized and configured for use in power generation facilities. Based on fiber selection and processing, the fuel object may be used in a variety of current power generation technologies including stoker, fluidized bed, gasifier, cyclonic, direct-fired, and pulverized coal technologies, and results in significant reduction of air emissions (including sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, hydrochloric acid, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and mercury) compared to coal with no loss of boiler or furnace efficiency.

Abstract: A candle fuel element includes a wick-holder assembly having a longitudinally disposed wick spaced from a heat-conductive element and a first solid fuel charge disposed between the wick and the heat-conductive element. A second solid fuel charge slidably engages and at least partly surrounds the wick-holder assembly. The heat-conductive element is disposed between the first solid fuel charge and the second solid fuel charge. The heat-conductive element defines a lateral opening adapted to allow fluid communication between the first solid fuel charge and the second solid fuel charge.

Abstract: A method for oil-based fuel dispersion in the form of micron and submicron Droplets with typical size distribution 0.5-20 microns where said Droplets are coated with a polymer-based shell containing metal nanoparticles that enable the droplets to absorb laser irradiation and utilize laser energy to initialize fuel burning. These encapsulated fuel Droplets are used primarily within engines to increase the power, efficiency, and stability of the engine.

Abstract: A method for the production of spherical combustible or fertile material particles from an oxide of the group of the heavy metals uranium, plutonium, or mixtures thereof. For this purpose, the process steps of producing a base solution of the nitrates of the heavy metal(s), adding at least one first reagent in order to adjust the viscosity of the solution, dropping the solution to form microspheres, at least superficially solidifying the microspheres in an atmosphere containing ammonia, collecting the microspheres in a solution containing ammonia, and subsequent washing, drying and thermal treatment are carried out, where at least one of urea, ammonium carbonate, ammonium hydrogen carbonate, ammonium cyanate, and biuret are added to the base solution before adding the first reagent. The solution thus prepared is heated to a temperature T where 80° C.?T<Ts and where Ts=boiling temperature of the solution, and is maintained at the temperature over a time period t where 2 h?t?8 h.

Abstract: An environmentally-safe, disposable, and combustible charcoal-based heat source includes a first chimney structure and a second wall structure surrounding the chimney structure. An inner chimney flue receives air for igniting and burning the charcoal-based heat source and an outer chimney flue exhausts combustion fumes from the charcoal-based heat source. A bottom wall member secures to the inner chimney flue and the outer chimney flue and forms of a combustible material to be consumed during the ignition and burning of the charcoal-based fuel. A top wall member secures to the inner chimney flue and the outer chimney flue to be consumed during the ignition of the charcoal-based fuel. A plurality of exhaust apertures are arranged within the top wall for exhausting the combustion fumes from the outer chimney flue. An ignition ring establishes a sustained ignition of sufficient duration to ignite uniformly the charcoal-based fuel. A plurality of flaps provide an initial ignition of the ignition ring.

Abstract: An improved charcoal briquet having combustion aiding surfaces is packaged in a compact boxed package. A charcoal briquet having improved burning characteristics and also improved shipping and retailing characteristics is thereby provided. An improved packaged charcoal product including a flat sided box adapted to hold randomly oriented briquets and be split open at its corners and at a lower portion for use in igniting the briquets and a grooved pillow shaped briquet are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method for oil-based fuel dispersion in the form of micron and submicron Droplets with typical size distribution 0.5-20 microns where said Droplets are coated with a polymer-based shell containing metal nanoparticles that enable the droplets to absorb laser irradiation and utilize laser energy to initialize fuel burning.

Abstract: Lithium fuel pellets are coated with a fluorinated oil, rather than a fluorinated polymer or telomer. The lithium pellets are coated by placing the pellets inside the lithium reaction vessel and then pouring a fluorinated oil into the reaction vessel. The reaction vessel is rotated in order to evenly coat the lithium pellets. The oil adheres to the lithium pellets and does not settle to the low point of the boiler cavity.

Abstract: A solid fuel is formed in a cuber to form body pieces formed of materials extruded through a die with a density greater than 35 lbs/cu ft; an energy content greater than 6500 BTU/lb; transverse dimensions less than 1.5 inches; and a length less than 4 inches; from plant biomass material which contains components when extended of greater than 1.0 inch. Primarily the materials are paper or other cellulose product and crop residue such as wheat straw. The cellulose and lignin from these materials act without additional binders as binders and encasing materials. The moisture content is maintained at a target value by mixing selected quantities of the materials without drying. The cubing machine has a feeding system where the space between the inner rotor and outer casing is smaller than 4 inches and the height of the outer flight is less than 1 inch.

Abstract: A method of providing a controlled batch of micrometer-sized or nanometer-sized coal material. This method includes the steps of: (a) specifying at least one desired physical and/or chemical parameter of the controlled batch of coal material; (b) specifying the desired range of the physical and/or chemical parameter in the controlled batch of coal material; (c) obtaining a feedstock batch of coal material; and (d) processing a feedstock batch of coal material to obtain the controlled batch of coal material having the at least one specified physical and/or chemical parameter in the specified range thereof. In a further step, the controlled batch of coal material can be activated.

Abstract: A corrosion inhibitor composition for a fuel, comprising a plurality of nanoparticles formed of an inorganic composition having an average longest dimension of 1 nanometer to 100 nanometers, wherein the inorganic active composition is insoluble in the fuel and is adapted to react with a corrosion causing contaminant.

Abstract: An artificial firelog and firestarter chip producing apparatus comprising a cutting assembly, a compression conveyor auger assembly and a die. The apparatus converts standard waxed corrugated cardboard boxes into artificial firelogs by first slicing cardboard sheets into cardboard strips, then chopping the cardboard strips into cardboard segments in the cutting assembly. The cardboard segments are compressed and in the compression conveyor auger assembly and extruded in the die to form generally circular, longitudinally-shaped sections of a firelog. Firestarter chips are fabricated by the cutting assembly, which slices cardboard sheets in conjunction with paper sheets into cardboard and paper strips, then chopping the cardboard strips into cardboard segments and the paper strips into paper mix.

Abstract: A sustained release composite is made from a three-dimensional piece of calcium silicate having a xontolite structure and in which are fibers of textile glass and borosilicate glass, and an active agent. The active agent can be a fire starting material, a fragrance, or a masking fragrance.

Abstract: Combustible packages for containing a fuel source and a fire started are provided. A combustible package may include a cardboard outer wall and top and bottom lids for substantially closing top and bottom openings defined by the outer wall. Each lid may define a central panel for extending across an opening and a plurality of tabs for facilitating a press fit between the lids and the outer wall. Each lid may also define a central opening for receiving an end of a fire starter. The fire starter may be wound paper tube impregnated with an accelerant. The fuel source may be a plurality of charcoal briquettes contained between the outer wall, the top and bottom lids and the fire starter. The outer wall may define one or more ventilation openings between the bottom edge and the bottom lid. Or the bottom edge may be scalloped to provide ventilation openings.

Abstract: A fuel pack for igniting charcoal includes an elongated member formed from combustible material that includes an elongated wick passing through it. Advantageously, the ignitable member and wick are saturated with a non-petroleum oil for providing a catalyst to ignite the fuel pack. The fuel pack further includes a package for receiving and storing the ignitable member. The package includes an open end for moving the ignitable member into and out of the package. The package further includes a sealed end portion for maintaining the ignitable member at a substantially stable position.

Abstract: A combustible product of various shapes and compositions efficiently and conveniently supplies heat, such as for outdoor cooking. The product includes a hollow cone of combustible material defining a substantially cone-shaped exterior, a substantially cone-shaped interior space, a large opening in the base of the cone and a small opening in the top of the cone creating a flue to facilitate ignition of the product and to allow individual products to be stacked upon each other for larger heating requirements or for efficient storage before use. The product may be a single integral piece of combustible material, a plurality of combustible pieces secured to each other to form the cone shape, or a plurality of combustible pieces arranged into a cone shape through means of combustible packaging.

Abstract: A combustible charcoal fuel package is disclosed which includes an outer wrapper, preferably formed from burlap or other similar woven material that encloses large pieces of charcoal material, medium pieces of charcoal material and smaller pieces of charcoal material coated or otherwise soaked in a vegetable wax to form an aggregate. The aggregate is disposed at or near the bottom of the burlap wrapper, with the medium-size pieces of charcoal material disposed thereon with the larger pieces of charcoal material disposed on top of the medium-sized pieces of charcoal material. Preferably, all charcoal materials are fabricated from all-natural charcoal logs fabricated from compressed charcoal particles without the use of odor causing binders.

Abstract: The invention relates to a heating implement which comprises at least two frame parts (1, 2) which have been made from wood and are placed one on top of the other, at least one of which has at least one groove (3), or corresponding formation, for leading the combustion air into the structure of the heating implement. A heating implement formed in accordance with the invention has one or more spacing pieces (4) located in the groove (3), which are placed between the frame parts to form an air gap between them.

Abstract: An improved stackable charcoal briquet has a convex bottom and a concave top and is packaged in a stacked compact boxed package. A charcoal briquet having improved burning characteristics and also improved shipping and retailing characteristics is thereby provided.

Abstract: A fire log system for providing an efficient corn based fuel that is burnable within conventional fireplaces. The fire log system includes a housing having a front opening, a volume of particulate corn within the interior of the housing, a plurality of corn cobs within the front opening of the housing for retaining the particulate corn, and a plurality of retaining members secured about the front opening. The housing with the corn cobs and particulate corn is preferably dipped within a wax material after formed. A wick member preferably is positioned within the front opening for assisting in the lighting of the fire log system.

Abstract: A tubular receptacle receives a flammable composition providing a heat source for the purpose of heating and expanding railroad rail segments defining a fracture at their ends. The receptacle is of a pliable nature and may include a fuse. The flammable composition includes alcohol and a petroleum product along with fragments of synthetic plastic fibers. A method is disclosed for utilizing the heat source.

Abstract: It has been discovered that solid polymers, specifically poly(&agr;-olefin)s, alone or formed together with other combustible materials, such as paper and cardboard, can form a useful composition for starting fires, such as charcoal fires and fireplace fires using only a single match flame and no volatile organic compounds. The solid fire starting compositions are thus easy, safe, and effective to use and safe to store.

Abstract: Coal-based cellular products that can be custom designed to have integral stiffeners or load paths, directed heat transfer paths, and/or directed mass transfer paths and methods for their production are described. Such design and production is made possible by the appropriate selection of starting materials, thermal treatment conditions and mold materials combined in at least some instances with segregation of different starting materials in different regions of a forming mold.

Abstract: An artificial firelog and firestarter chip producing apparatus comprising a cutting assembly, a compression conveyor auger assembly and a die. The apparatus converts standard waxed corrugated cardboard boxes into artificial firelogs by first slicing cardboard sheets into cardboard strips, then chopping the cardboard strips into cardboard segments in the cutting assembly. The cardboard segments are compressed and in the compression conveyor auger assembly and extruded in the die to form generally circular, longitudinally-shaped sections of a firelog. Firestarter chips are fabricated by the cutting assembly, which slices cardboard sheets in conjunction with paper sheets into cardboard and paper strips, then chopping the cardboard strips into cardboard segments and the paper strips into paper mix.

Abstract: A decorative candle and method of forming a decorative candle are disclosed. The decorative candle is fabricated from a wax material that defines a bottom layer having a top surface. At least one flanged gelatinous component formed from a mineral oil gel is placed onto the top surface of the bottom layer. A second layer of wax having a top layer is added such that the entire flange portion of the gelatinous component is covered, but at least a portion of the decorative (non-flange) portion of the gelatinous component protrudes above the top surface of the top layer of the candle.

Abstract: A decorative candle and method of forming a decorative candle are disclosed. The decorative candle is fabricated from a wax material that defines a bottom layer having a top surface. At least one flanged gelatinous component formed from a mineral oil gel is placed onto the top surface of the bottom layer. A second layer of wax having a top layer is added such that the entire flange portion of the gelatinous component is covered, but at least a portion of the decorative (non-flange) portion of the gelatinous component protrudes above the top surface of the top layer of the candle.

Abstract: A method of forming a decorative candle. The method comprises providing a candle which is fabricated from a wax material that defines a top surface. Next, a source of heat is applied to the candle until at least that portion of the wax which defines the top surface thereof is melted. Then at least one gelatinous component formed from a mineral oil gel is placed onto the top surface such that the component is at least partially inserted into the molten wax. The candle is allowed to cool thereby hardening the molten wax and securing the gelatinous component. The melting point of the gelatinous component is higher than the melting point of the wax such that the component will not melt when placed upon the molten wax.

Abstract: A self-contained charcoal starter for barbecuing. The self-contained charcoal starter provides a bag of charcoal briquettes which includes a box or book of matches for lighting the briquettes. The matches are in a smaller bag which is stitched to the bag of briquettes when the bag of briquettes is sewn shut during its manufacture. The user tears the bag of charcoal briquettes open, then proceeds to retrieve a match from the smaller bag, and uses the match to start the fire.

Abstract: A method of forming a decorative candle. The method comprises providing a candle which is fabricated from a wax material that defines a top surface. Next, a source of heat is applied to the candle until at least that portion of the wax which defines the top surface thereof is melted. Then at least one gelatinous component formed from a mineral oil gel is placed onto the top surface such that the component is at least partially inserted into the molten wax. The candle is allowed to cool thereby hardening the molten wax and securing the gelatinous component. The melting point of the gelatinous component is higher than the melting point of the wax such that the component will not melt when placed upon the molten wax.

Abstract: A figurine-contained artificial fire-log for providing not only firewood but also providing a collectable item. The figurine-contained artificial fire-log includes an elongate flammable body being formed of particulate material such as compressed wood chips and sawdust and also being formed of a binder such as a chemical agent including wax; and a collectable figurine being disposed inside the elongate flammable body and including an animal-shaped figure such as an elephant which is made of fire-resistant material such as cast iron, cement, and ceramic.

Abstract: A fire enhancement system for increasing the visual appearance of a fire with a simple to utilize structure. The inventive device includes an outer tube defining an interior cavity, and a fuel member positioned within the interior cavity of the outer tube. The outer tube is preferably comprised of copper tubing or similar composition of copper with the fuel member comprised of a plastic material thereby forming a chemical reaction when heated thereby displaying a pleasing variety of colors within a fire. The outer tube may include a first cap and a second cap for preventing the fuel member from exiting the outer tube.

Abstract: A firelog and grate system wherein the firelog is supported by the grate in a generally upright orientation includes a bed and at least a first support member. The firelog contains at least a first support surface. The first support surface of the firelog rests against the first support member of the grate, thereby retaining the firelog from movement in the downward direction, the frontward and rearward directions, and the left and right directions. The grate may contain multiple support members to support multiple firelogs for simultaneous burning. The support members can constitute plates, pins, or support lugs. In the plate configuration, the support member inhibits the burning of the firelog in the rearward direction, i.e., the direction which cannot be observed, thereby producing less unnecessary heat.

Abstract: A premium “fuel-grade” petroleum coke is produced by modifying petroleum coking technology. Coking process parameters are controlled to consistently produce petroleum coke within a predetermined range for volatile combustible material (VCM) content. The invention includes a process of producing a coke fuel, the method comprising steps: (a) obtaining a coke precursor material derived from crude oil and having a volatile organic component; and (b) subjecting the coke precursor material to a thermal cracking process for sufficient time and at sufficient temperature and under sufficient pressure so as to produce a coke product having a volatile combustible material (VCM) present in an amount in the range of from about 13% to about 50% by weight. Most preferably, the volatile combustible material in the coke product typically may be in the range of from about 15% to about 30% by weight.

Abstract: A method and machine for making a new and improved compressed wood fuel pellet. The method comprising the steps of severing a wafer of tree trunk or branch, punching or splitting a small portion along the grain in the wafer, confining each portion across the grain, and then compressing each portion along the grain to form a compressed wood fuel pellet of contiguous wood having a specific gravity of about 1.2-1.4 with a very high efficiency process and machine.

Abstract: New process designs are presented for reforming reactions of steam with hydrocarbons (such as methane, natural gas, light hydrocarbon feedstocks with one to four carbon atoms in each molecule), also for the water gas shift reaction that is of steam with carbon monoxide; also for carbon dioxide reforming of hydrocarbons (such as methane, acidic natural gas, coal gas, landfill gas, light hydrocarbon feedstocks with one to four carbon atoms in each molecule), and the combined reaction of steam carbon dioxide with same hydrocarbons. The processes employ organic polymer, organic polymer-inorganic support, and inorganic membrane permeators for species separation, with the permeators placed after the reactors where the above named reactions take place. The membranes in permeators separate selectively the H.sub.2 and CO.sub.2 species exiting from the reactors from the non-permeated reactants and products.

Abstract: A self-contained charcoal starter for barbecuing. The self-contained charcoal starter includes a bag containing charcoal briquettes and a box or book of matches. The box or book of matches is attached to the inside of the bag by an adhesive. When the fire is to be started, the briquettes are deposited in a barbecue pit, and the box or book of matches is detached from the bag and used to ignite the charcoal.

Abstract: Fuel charcoal having a plurality of air-passing portions in the shape of through holes or grooves in its body so as to supply combustion air thereto while burning, by which it keeps a burning state once catching fire.

Abstract: A barbecue smoker device for placing in a barbecue grill for generating flavoring smoke when heated, the barbecue smoker device including a leakproof noncombustible body having an inner cavity, an opening positioned to connect to the inner cavity to thereby provide access to the inner cavity, presoaked wood chips positioned within the inner cavity to thereby generate smoke when the barbecue smoker device is placed in the barbecue grill, a lid positioned on the opening to thereby hermetically seal the presoaked wood chips within the inner cavity, and an associated method.

Abstract: A fuel pellet and a method of manufacturing a fuel pellet capable of burning in either a stoker or pulver furnace, comprising from about 0 to about 80% by weight of cellulosic material, from about 1% to about 50% by weight of densified thermoplastic material, and from about 0 to about 50% by weight of coal. The cellulosic material, densified thermoplastic material and coal are ground from about 80 Mesh to about 200 Mesh, and then blended into a mixture wherein the contents are evenly distributed throughout. Following the blending process, the mixture is forced through a pelletizer. As the pellets are removed from the pelletizer they are immediately cooled so that the densified thermoplastic particles do not melt. The resulting fuel pellets produce from about 10,000 BTU per pound to about 16,000 BTU per pound and leave an ash deposit of about 0 to about 6% by weight, and a sulfur dioxide output of about 0 to about 3% by weight.