Method for Manufacturing a Gelled Fuel Heat Source

Abstract

A method for manufacturing a stable gelled fuel composition of diethylene glycol and fumed silica. Polyethylene glycol may also be added to improve burning. Previous related compositions (U.S. Pat. No. 5,264,003) provided methods of making a polymer hydrogel without chemical cross links. The modifications herein create optimal methods for mixing that enhance the range of applications. The gelation process is further modulated by controlling the air entraining of the resultant mixture producing a gellant complex while at the same time reducing the gelling media. The method includes the steps of providing a polymer solution of silicone dioxide (SiO₂) wetted into diethylene glycol (DEG) in a first solution. The method further provides physically cross-linked hydrogels produced by controlled gelation of viscoelastic mixture wherein workability is maintained. In a further aspect, the invention provides methodology for mixing other forms of the gelation of polymer hydrogel solutions.

Description

CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims the benefit under Title 35 United States Code §119(e) of U.S. Provisional Application 61 / 501,236 filed Jun. 26, 2011 the full disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]The present invention relates generally to gelled diethylene glycol (DEG) compositions to be used as heat sources or fuels. More particularly, this invention relates to a method for manufacturing a diethylene glycol and a fumed silica product and to the resulting composition product.[0004]2. Description of the Related Art[0005]Small portable heat sources have been used for many years in a number of fields including, camping and in military application. To avoid the bulk and impracticality of liquid sources inherent in camp stoves, a number of devices have been invented to provide a source of fuel in a gelled or colloidal form. One such device is a gelled alcohol marketed a...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0011]The preferred embodiment of the present invention relates to a gelled fuel heat source consisting of diethylene glycol and a fumed silicon product. Use of diethylene glycol as a fuel source has many advantages over the prior art such as alcohol and organic based fuel sources. Diethylene glycol burns clearly without fumes or odor. When mixed with a fumed silica product as a gelling agent, a gel forms with a high degree of viscosity capable of being packaged in an envelope, can, or tube. Addition of the fumed silica product produces good wicking characteristics with a high flash point. Further, the diethylene glycol contributes a high caloric value to the gel which requires only a small portion for each use. The composition may be used directly a field use includes fuel for heating food or as a starter for igniting firewood.

Problems solved by technology

Because of its volatile characteristics inherent in alcoholic compositions, this device suffers from several limitations and disadvantages.

First, when ignited, the heat degenerates the gel to a liquid form, which may spread a fire rapidly if spilled.

Further, due to its volatile nature, it emits fumes and a considerable odor when burned which are harmful to the health of those in close proximity.

The disadvantage and limitations inherent in organic based fuels are its tendencies to evaporate quickly and emit fumes and odors which may be poisonous or noxious.

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