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

The patent describes a gelled fuel heat source consisting of diethylene glycol and fume-silicon product. Diethylene glycol has advantages over other fuel sources such as alcohol and organic products as it burns clear without fumes or odor. The mixture of diethylene glycol and fume-silicon forms a gel with a high viscosity that can be packaged in envelopes, cans, or tubes. The gel has good wicking characteristics with a high flash point. The high caloric value of diethylene glycol requires only a small portion for each use. The composition can be used as fuel for heating food or starting 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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