Engine reformer systems for lower cost, smaller scale manufacturing of liquid fuels

Abstract

A reformer-liquid fuel manufacturing system that utilizes an engine to generate hydrogen-rich gas is disclosed. The engine operates at very rich conditions, such as 2.5<φ<4.0. In doing so, it creates an exothermic reaction, which results in the production of syngas. In addition, the system utilizes the energy from the exothermic reaction to rotate a shaft and also utilizes the heat in the syngas to heat the reactants. A mechanical power plant is in communication with the rotating shaft and can be used to produce oxygen, provide electricity or operate a compressor, as require. The hydrogen-rich gas is supplied to a chemical reactor, which converts the gas into a liquid fuel, such as methanol.

Description

[0001] Cross References to Related Applications [0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 828,140, ​​filed March 14, 2013, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61 / 635,041, filed April 18, 2012, the disclosures of which are incorporated by reference It is incorporated herein in its entirety. Background technique [0003] Traditional methanol and other gas-to-liquid (GTL) production systems use natural gas or other hydrocarbon gases as input fuels and produce liquids such as, for example, methanol, gasoline or diesel fuel. The feedstock is first converted to syngas (a combination of hydrogen and carbon monoxide, called "hydrogen-rich gas") in a fuel reformer. These reformers are catalytic reactors which can use e.g. steam reforming, dry reforming (using CO 2 ), partial oxidation or autothermal operation. These techniques include exothermic conversion reactions (such as partial oxidation) or endothermic reactions (such as ...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

[0005] Conventional commercial manufacturing equipment cannot be used for biomass or natural gas-based feedstocks that are difficult or expensive to transport

Images