Small methanol-to-hydrogen device, hydrogen fuel cell, hydrogen engine, hydrogen-doped engine and application

Abstract

The invention discloses a small methanol hydrogen production device which comprises a heat exchanger, a gasification bin and a reaction bin, a containing cavity is formed in the heat exchanger, and a self-heat-supply unit is arranged in the containing cavity and used for supplying heat to the gasification bin and the reaction bin. In addition, the invention further provides a hydrogen fuel cell, a hydrogen engine and a hydrogen-doped engine, and application of the small methanol hydrogen production device or / and the hydrogen fuel cell or / and the hydrogen engine or / and the hydrogen-doped engine to automobiles. The hydrogen production device has the beneficial effects that the hydrogen production device is highly integrated and miniaturized and is convenient to carry and move; and meanwhile, self heat supply is achieved, heat supply is stable and efficient, dependence on an external power source and the problem of power limitation of an electric heater are fundamentally avoided, the starting and response speed is high, and the system is suitable for industrial application and popularization.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of thermochemical technology, specifically to a small-scale methanol-to-hydrogen device, a hydrogen fuel cell, a hydrogen engine, a hydrogen-blending engine, and their applications. Background Technology

[0002] Hydrogen is a clean and efficient secondary energy source with applications spanning transportation, energy storage, industrial production, and building energy supply. Methanol-to-hydrogen technology, on the other hand, offers both flexibility and economic benefits. Its mature process, abundant raw material sources, and adaptable large-scale centralized production and supply capabilities have led to its widespread application in industrial production, new energy, and transportation.

[0003] For example, CN102616741B discloses a hydrogen production apparatus, which includes: a liquid storage container, a heat exchanger, a vaporization chamber, a reforming chamber, and a separation chamber; the liquid storage container, heat exchanger, vaporization chamber, reforming chamber, and separation chamber are connected sequentially by pipelines; methanol and water in the liquid storage container are transported to the heat exchanger for heat exchange via a conveying device, and then enter the vaporization chamber for vaporization; the vaporized methanol vapor and water vapor enter the reforming chamber, which contains a catalyst, and the temperature in the reforming chamber is 280℃-409℃; the conveying channel between the reforming chamber and the separation chamber passes through a preheating and temperature control mechanism, which is used to heat the gas output from the reforming chamber; the preheating and temperature control mechanism acts as a buffer between the reforming chamber and the separation chamber, so that the temperature of the gas output from the reforming chamber is the same as or close to the temperature of the separation chamber; the temperature in the separation chamber is set to 400℃-460℃; a membrane separator is provided in the separation chamber, and hydrogen is obtained from the gas production end of the membrane separator.

[0004] The above solutions can improve hydrogen production efficiency, but they require large investments in equipment and infrastructure, are difficult to move, and are only suitable for large-scale hydrogen consumption scenarios, with poor flexibility and versatility.

[0005] To address the aforementioned issues, CN110451458A discloses a hydrogen production device for use in a hydrogen engine. This device utilizes electromagnetic induction heating and vaporization, followed by conversion and cracking, to achieve a vaporization temperature of 250°C. Temperature sensors are installed inside the vaporization and cracking tubes, and the electromagnetic induction heating rod and temperature sensors are connected to a PLC controller. This methanol-water hydrogen production device includes a methanol-water storage tank and an electromagnetic metering pump. The storage tank is connected to the electromagnetic metering pump, which is then connected to the vaporization tube via a pipeline. The methanol-water mixture in the storage tank enters the vaporization tube directly through the electromagnetic metering pump. The electromagnetic heating rod inside the vaporization tube heats the mixture to the vaporization temperature, and the vaporized mixture then enters the cracking tube directly through a pipe at the top of the vaporization tube, thus achieving hydrogen production through cracking.

[0006] The hydrogen production device provided by this solution, which is powered by a hydrogen engine, has a slow start-up and response speed, making it difficult to achieve industrial application and promotion. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The purpose of this invention is to provide a small-scale methanol-to-hydrogen device, hydrogen fuel cell, hydrogen engine, hydrogen-blending engine, and their applications that have fast start-up and response speeds and are suitable for industrial application.

[0008] To achieve the above objectives, the basic solution of the present invention provides a small methanol-to-hydrogen device, including a heat exchanger, a vaporization chamber, and a reaction chamber. A receiving cavity is provided in the heat exchanger, and a self-heating unit is arranged in the receiving cavity for supplying heat to the vaporization chamber and the reaction chamber.

[0009] The advantages of this basic solution are: high integration and miniaturization, making it easy to carry and move; it also achieves self-heating, providing stable and efficient heating, fundamentally avoiding dependence on external power sources and the power limitation of electric heaters; it has fast start-up and response speeds, making it suitable for industrial application.

[0010] Preferably, the self-heating unit includes a combustion chamber for generating heat through combustion. It boasts strong heating capacity, high stability, and wide applicability, while also offering advantages in cost and technological maturity. Even in extreme scenarios, it can stably maintain the heating temperature, effectively ensuring heating reliability and making it suitable for industrial application.

[0011] Preferably, the heat exchanger has heat-conducting components on its inner wall and / or outer periphery. This significantly enhances heat dissipation efficiency by expanding the heat exchange area and optimizing the airflow path, helping the heat exchanger to quickly transfer heat, ensuring stable and reliable hydrogen production, and making it suitable for industrial application.

[0012] Preferably, the heat-conducting component is a heat-conducting fin.

[0013] Preferably, the vaporization chamber is located above or at the top of the heat exchanger. The stacked arrangement of the vaporization chamber and the heat exchanger reduces the equipment's footprint and makes the structure more compact.

[0014] Preferably, the vaporization chamber includes a vaporization channel for the passage of gas and / or fluid.

[0015] Preferably, the gas and / or fluid travels in a spiral or serpentine pattern within the gasification channel. This extends the gasification contact time, enhances heat and mass transfer, improves gasification efficiency and uniformity, optimizes the gasification chamber structure, ensures the stability of raw material gasification, and guarantees on-demand hydrogen production with a fast response speed.

[0016] Preferably, at least one baffle is provided in the vaporization channel to buffer the fluid flow rate and prevent the fluid from directly entering the reaction chamber. This can further extend the vaporization contact time, enhance heat and mass transfer, and improve vaporization efficiency and uniformity.

[0017] Preferably, the reaction chamber is arranged circumferentially around the outer periphery of the heat exchanger. The circumferential enclosure of the reaction chamber maximizes and homogenizes the contact between the reaction chamber and the heat exchanger's surface, reducing dead zones, improving heat exchange efficiency, and saving energy. Furthermore, the circumferential design significantly saves space, further enabling high integration and miniaturization.

[0018] Preferably, the reaction chamber includes multiple reaction chambers, through which the reaction gas passes sequentially. By extending the reaction path and increasing the effective contact area and residence time of the catalyst, a full reaction can be achieved under normal or low pressure conditions, significantly improving the conversion rate and ensuring that hydrogen is produced immediately upon use with a fast response speed.

[0019] Preferably, the reactant gas travels in a serpentine pattern between the various reaction chambers. This further extends the reaction path and increases the effective contact area and residence time of the catalyst.

[0020] Preferably, the heat exchanger, vaporization chamber, and reaction chamber are an integrated structure. This integrated structure of the present invention can preferably be 3D printed, which facilitates processing, enables low-cost manufacturing, and is suitable for industrial application.

[0021] Preferably, a flue gas channel is arranged around the outer periphery of the reaction chamber to recover the heat from the combustion flue gas. After the combustion exhaust gas completes heat exchange, it is not directly discharged but is introduced into the flue gas channel for waste heat utilization.

[0022] Preferably, the heat exchanger is provided with flue gas through holes for guiding the flue gas from the combustion chamber into the flue gas passage. Preferably, the flue gas through holes can be located at the lower part or bottom of the heat exchanger.

[0023] Preferably, a flue gas outlet is provided on the flue gas passage for discharging flue gas. More preferably, the flue gas outlet can be located at the upper part of the flue gas passage, with a bottom-in, top-out flow pattern that follows the natural flow pattern of flue gas. This improves combustion heat exchange and purification effects, reducing the emission of harmful substances while utilizing secondary heat sources.

[0024] Preferably, the heat exchanger, gasification chamber, reaction chamber, and flue gas passage are an integrated structure. This integrated structure can be 3D printed, making processing convenient, achieving low-cost manufacturing, and suitable for industrial application.

[0025] Preferably, the combustion chamber is equipped with a fuel device and an air intake device for supplying fuel and air.

[0026] Preferably, an end cap is provided at the top of the heat exchanger to seal the top of the integrated structure.

[0027] Preferably, the end cap is equipped with a temperature measuring module. This allows for real-time temperature monitoring of all parts of the integrated structure, facilitating timely adjustments and further ensuring that hydrogen is produced immediately upon use with a fast response time.

[0028] Preferably, the temperature measurement module includes a reaction chamber temperature sensor and a vaporization chamber temperature sensor.

[0029] Preferably, the end cap is also provided with a hydrogen outlet.

[0030] Preferably, the integrated structure is made of a material with high thermal conductivity.

[0031] Preferably, the integrated structure is covered with heat-insulating material. This prevents heat loss and further conserves resources.

[0032] Preferably, the combustion feedstock in the combustion chamber is methanol. It can use the same fuel supply as the hydrogen production feedstock, eliminating the need for a separate fuel system and further miniaturizing the device. Furthermore, methanol has a stable calorific value, a moderate flame temperature, and burns completely when mixed with air, resulting in high heating efficiency. In addition, the combustion process uses excess air to achieve near-complete combustion, with the main emissions being carbon dioxide and water vapor, thus avoiding the emission of harmful substances.

[0033] Secondly, the present invention provides a hydrogen fuel cell in which the hydrogen is supplied by a small methanol-to-hydrogen device as described in any of the preceding claims.

[0034] The benefits are: small size, easy to carry, fast response speed, and the dual advantages of zero carbon emissions and low pollutant emissions.

[0035] Thirdly, the present invention provides a hydrogen engine, including an engine, wherein the hydrogen used in the engine is provided by a small methanol-to-hydrogen device as described in any of the preceding claims.

[0036] The beneficial effects are as follows: the hydrogen engine provided by this invention has high combustion thermal efficiency, fast start-up speed (the time from cold state to full load hydrogen production is less than 2 minutes), strong and stable power, which greatly expands the application scenarios; and can achieve the dual advantages of zero carbon emissions and low pollutant emissions.

[0037] Preferably, the hydrogen outlet is also connected to a condenser and a drying device, and the hydrogen passes through the condenser and drying device in sequence after it comes out of the reaction chamber.

[0038] Preferably, a control module is also provided outside the combustion chamber to adjust the hydrogen production according to the engine's needs. Dynamic adjustment of hydrogen production based on operating conditions enables on-demand hydrogen production, immediate consumption, and the elimination of the need for storage.

[0039] Fourthly, the present invention also provides a hydrogen-blended engine, comprising an engine, wherein the hydrogen blended in the engine is provided by a small methanol-to-hydrogen device as described in any of the preceding claims.

[0040] The beneficial effects are as follows: Compared with ordinary fuel engines, the hydrogen-blended engine provided by this invention can meet environmental protection policies (carbon reduction and pollution reduction) without sacrificing power or increasing operating costs, while also reducing energy consumption and being compatible with existing engine systems.

[0041] Preferably, the hydrogen outlet is also connected to a condenser and a drying device, and the hydrogen passes through the condenser and drying device in sequence after it comes out of the reaction chamber.

[0042] Preferably, a control module is also provided outside the combustion chamber for adjusting the hydrogen production according to the needs of the hydrogen-blended engine.

[0043] Preferably, the hydrogen-blended engine is a dual-fuel engine, with methanol as the primary fuel.

[0044] Preferably, the volume ratio of hydrogen doping is 1-30%.

[0045] Fifthly, the present invention also provides the application of the small methanol-to-hydrogen device and / or hydrogen fuel cell and / or hydrogen engine and / or hydrogen-blended engine as described above in automobiles.

[0046] The present invention has the following beneficial effects: 1. The small-scale methanol-to-hydrogen unit provided in this solution is highly integrated and miniaturized, making it easy to carry and move; at the same time, it achieves self-heating, with stable and efficient heating, fundamentally avoiding dependence on external power sources and the problem of power limitation of electric heaters. It has fast start-up and response speeds and is suitable for industrial application.

[0047] 2. It eliminates the dependence on external power sources, with a hydrogen production time of less than 2 minutes from cold state to full load, and a system energy utilization efficiency of more than 85%.

[0048] 3. The hydrogen engine provided by this solution has high combustion thermal efficiency, fast start-up speed (from cold state to full load hydrogen production time < 2 minutes), and strong and stable power, which greatly expands the application scenarios; and can achieve the dual advantages of zero carbon emissions and low pollutant emissions.

[0049] 4. The hydrogen-blended engine provided by this invention, compared with ordinary fuel engines, meets environmental protection requirements without sacrificing power or increasing operating costs, while also reducing energy consumption, and is compatible with existing engine systems without requiring redesign. It is the optimal solution for the current energy transition phase.

[0050] 5. The small-scale methanol-to-hydrogen device and / or hydrogen engine and / or hydrogen-blended engine provided by this invention can be used in automobiles to achieve fast response speed, and hydrogen can be produced on demand, consumed immediately, and without the need for storage. Attached Figure Description

[0051] Figure 1 These are schematic diagrams of the structures in embodiments 1-6 of the present invention.

[0052] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure after removing the top layer.

[0053] Figure 3 Front views of embodiments 1-6 of the present invention.

[0054] Figure 4 for Figure 3 Top view.

[0055] Figure 5 for Figure 3 A bottom view.

[0056] Figure 6 for Figure 3 AA sectional view.

[0057] Figure 7 for Figure 4 BB cross-sectional view. Detailed Implementation

[0058] Instruction manual attached Figure 1-7 The reference numerals in the attached drawings include: 1-heat exchanger, 11-receiving cavity, 12-first heat-conducting fin, 13-second heat-conducting fin, 14-flue gas passage, 2-gasification chamber, 21-gasification channel, 22-feed channel, 23-discharge port, 3-reaction chamber, 31-reaction chamber, 32-gas inlet and outlet, 4-flue gas channel, 41-flue gas outlet.

[0059] The small methanol-to-hydrogen device provided in this embodiment includes a heat exchanger 1, a vaporization chamber 2, and a reaction chamber 3. A receiving cavity 11 is provided in the heat exchanger 1, and a self-heating unit is arranged in the receiving cavity 11 to provide heat for the vaporization chamber 2 and the reaction chamber 3.

[0060] Even better, the self-heating unit includes a combustion chamber for combustion to generate heat.

[0061] Better yet, the gasification chamber 2 is located above or at the top of the heat exchanger 1.

[0062] Even better, reaction chamber 3 is arranged circumferentially around the outer periphery of heat exchanger 1.

[0063] Even better, the reaction chamber 3 includes multiple reaction chambers 31, through which the reaction gas passes sequentially.

[0064] Even better, a flue gas channel 4 is arranged around the outer periphery of the reaction chamber 3 to recover the heat of the combustion flue gas.

[0065] Even better, the heat exchanger 1, gasification chamber 2, reaction chamber 3 and flue gas passage 4 are integrated into one structure.

[0066] Even better, a fuel unit and an air intake unit are installed outside the combustion chamber to supply fuel to the combustion chamber.

[0067] In addition, this embodiment provides a hydrogen fuel cell, a hydrogen engine, or a hydrogen-blended engine, wherein the hydrogen used is supplied by a small methanol-to-hydrogen device of any of the above.

[0068] In addition, this embodiment also provides the application of small-scale methanol-to-hydrogen devices and / or hydrogen fuel cells and / or hydrogen engines and / or hydrogen-blended engines in automobiles.

[0069] Example 1: This embodiment is basically as follows: Figure 1-7 As shown, the provided small-scale methanol-to-hydrogen device mainly consists of a heat exchanger 1, a gasification chamber 2, and a reaction chamber 3.

[0070] A receiving cavity 11 is provided inside the heat exchanger 1. The receiving cavity 11 is used to house the combustion chamber. The combustion of fuel in the combustion chamber provides heat to the gasification chamber 2 and the reaction chamber 3, completing the gasification of the raw materials and the reaction to produce hydrogen. The combustion chamber provides space and conditions for the combustion of fuel. Currently, there are various combustion chamber structures available in existing technologies or on the market, which will not be described in detail here.

[0071] Preferably, the vaporization chamber 2 is located at the upper part or top of the heat exchanger 1, and the vaporization chamber 3 is provided with a vaporization channel 21 for gas and / or fluid to pass through. Preferably, the vaporization channel 21 can be a labyrinth-shaped channel, or more preferably a spiral or serpentine design.

[0072] This embodiment is described in detail as follows: Figure 2 The specific structure of the provided gasification chamber 2 is as follows: the feed channel 22 of the gasification chamber 2 extends to the middle position of the gasification chamber 2; and with the center of the gasification chamber 2 as the center, multiple concentric annular gasification channels 21 with gradually increasing radii are arranged outwards, with the feed channel 22 precisely cutting off each gasification channel 21 without connecting them; at the end of each gasification channel 21, there is a discharge port 23 connecting to the adjacent gasification channel 21, and the discharge ports 23 of two adjacent gasification channels 21 are not located on the same side, so as to... Figure 2For example, if the outlet of the third gasification channel 31 from the inside out is located at the left end of the feed channel 22, then the outlet 22 of the fourth gasification channel 21 is located at the right end of the feed channel 22. This left-right separation arrangement allows the gas and / or fluid to travel along a meandering path when passing through the gasification channel 21, ensuring more complete gasification and more balanced heat distribution.

[0073] Preferably, the discharge port 23 is positioned at a distance from the bottom of the gasification channel 21 to form a barrier, which serves as a discharge threshold. This prevents the fluid from directly entering the reaction chamber 3 and slows down the fluid's travel speed, ensuring complete gasification. At least one of the multiple discharge ports 22 may be designed in this way, or multiple or all of the discharge ports 22 may be designed in this way.

[0074] The reaction chamber 3 is arranged circumferentially around the outer periphery of the heat exchanger 1, making full use of space and heat. The reaction chamber 3 provided in this embodiment mainly consists of eight reaction chambers 31, but it can also be designed with 2, 6, 10, or more reaction chambers 31, depending on factors such as space utilization and reaction time requirements. Each reaction chamber 31 is filled with a catalyst. The catalyst used in this embodiment is a commonly used catalyst for methanol-to-hydrogen production, such as copper-based, nickel-based, or composite catalysts, which are commercially available. Catalysts used in documents such as CN103420337B can also be referenced.

[0075] Each reaction chamber 31 is provided with a gas inlet and outlet 32 ​​to connect adjacent reaction chambers 31. Preferably, each reaction chamber 31 has two gas inlets and outlets 32, and the two gas inlets and outlets 32 are arranged diagonally in the reaction chamber 31. The reaction gas passes through each reaction chamber 31 in sequence, forming a serpentine gas flow path, which fully ensures the area and time of contact with the catalyst, so as to better complete the hydrogen production reaction.

[0076] To better transfer heat, a first heat-conducting fin 12 is provided on the inner wall of the heat exchanger 1, and a second heat-conducting fin 13 is provided on the circumferential side wall of the heat exchanger 1 (i.e., the inner wall of the reaction chamber 31). The first heat-conducting fin 12 and the second heat-conducting fin 13 are generally made of copper-based, aluminum-based or other high heat-resistant and thermally conductive materials, which can be directly purchased on the market.

[0077] In addition, as a preferred embodiment, the heat exchanger 1, the vaporization chamber 2 and the reaction chamber 3 are an integrated structure made of a high thermal conductivity material, which can be formed by 3D printing technology.

[0078] Considering the balance between high thermal conductivity, lightweight miniaturization, portability, and processing and usage costs, the integrated structure of this embodiment can also be preferably made of materials such as aluminum.

[0079] In this embodiment, the heat exchanger 1 is also provided with an end cover at the top to seal the top of the integrated structure. Preferably, a hydrogen outlet, a reaction chamber temperature sensor, and a vaporization chamber temperature sensor are provided on the end cover.

[0080] The outer wall of reaction chamber 3 can also be covered with heat insulation material to prevent heat loss and avoid burns during operation.

[0081] In addition, a fuel unit and an air intake unit are installed outside the combustion chamber. The fuel unit supplies fuel to the combustion chamber, and the air intake unit supplies air to the combustion chamber to assist combustion. Preferably, the air intake unit is equipped with an air pump or an air intake fan.

[0082] Preferably, in this embodiment, methanol is used as fuel. The fuel device is equipped with two pipelines: one leads to the feed channel 22 to provide gasification feedstock, and the other delivers methanol to the combustion chamber for combustion. Specifically, approximately 90% of the methanol enters the feed channel 22 for gasification, and approximately 10% of the methanol enters the combustion chamber for combustion.

[0083] Preferably, the feedstock entering the gasification chamber 2 can be methanol and / or methanol-water, and correspondingly, hydrogen production can be completed in the reaction chamber 3 by cracking and / or reforming.

[0084] Example 2: This embodiment is basically as follows: Figure 1-7 As shown, the provided small-scale methanol-to-hydrogen device mainly consists of a heat exchanger 1, a gasification chamber 2, a reaction chamber 3, and a flue gas passage 4.

[0085] A receiving cavity 11 is provided inside the heat exchanger 1. The receiving cavity 11 is used to house the combustion chamber. The combustion of fuel in the combustion chamber provides heat to the gasification chamber 2 and the reaction chamber 3, completing the gasification of the raw materials and the reaction to produce hydrogen. The combustion chamber provides space and conditions for the combustion of fuel. Currently, there are various combustion chamber structures available in existing technologies or on the market, which will not be described in detail here.

[0086] Preferably, the vaporization chamber 2 is located at the upper part or top of the heat exchanger 1, and the vaporization chamber 3 is provided with a vaporization channel 21 for gas and / or fluid to pass through. Preferably, the vaporization channel 21 can be a labyrinth-shaped channel, or more preferably a spiral or serpentine design.

[0087] This embodiment is described in detail as follows: Figure 2The specific structure of the provided gasification chamber 2 is as follows: the feed channel 22 of the gasification chamber 2 extends to the middle position of the gasification chamber 2; and with the center of the gasification chamber 2 as the center, multiple concentric annular gasification channels 21 with gradually increasing radii are arranged outwards, with the feed channel 22 precisely cutting off each gasification channel 21 without connecting them; at the end of each gasification channel 21, there is a discharge port 23 connecting to the adjacent gasification channel 21, and the discharge ports 23 of two adjacent gasification channels 21 are not located on the same side, so as to... Figure 2 For example, if the outlet of the third gasification channel 31 from the inside out is located at the left end of the feed channel 22, then the outlet 22 of the fourth gasification channel 21 is located at the right end of the feed channel 22. This left-right separation arrangement allows the gas and / or fluid to travel along a meandering path when passing through the gasification channel 21, ensuring more complete gasification and more balanced heat distribution.

[0088] Preferably, the discharge port 23 is positioned at a distance from the bottom of the gasification channel 21 to form a barrier, which serves as a discharge threshold. This prevents the fluid from directly entering the reaction chamber 3 and slows down the fluid's travel speed, ensuring complete gasification. At least one of the multiple discharge ports 22 may be designed in this way, or multiple or all of the discharge ports 22 may be designed in this way.

[0089] The reaction chamber 3 is arranged circumferentially around the outer periphery of the heat exchanger 1, making full use of space and heat. The reaction chamber 3 provided in this embodiment mainly consists of eight reaction chambers 31, but it can also be designed with 2, 6, 10, or more reaction chambers 31, depending on factors such as space utilization and reaction time requirements. Each reaction chamber 31 is filled with a catalyst. The catalyst used in this embodiment is a commonly used catalyst for methanol-to-hydrogen production, such as copper-based, nickel-based, or composite catalysts, which are commercially available. Catalysts used in documents such as CN103420337B can also be referenced.

[0090] Each reaction chamber 31 is provided with a gas inlet and outlet 32 ​​to connect adjacent reaction chambers 31. Preferably, each reaction chamber 31 has two gas inlets and outlets 32, and the two gas inlets and outlets 32 are arranged diagonally in the reaction chamber 31. The reaction gas passes through each reaction chamber 31 in sequence, forming a serpentine gas flow path, which fully ensures the area and time of contact with the catalyst, so as to better complete the hydrogen production reaction.

[0091] The flue gas passage 4 is arranged circumferentially around the outer periphery of the reaction chamber 3. A flue gas through hole 13 is provided at the lower part or bottom of the heat exchanger 1 to guide the flue gas generated by combustion in the combustion chamber into the flue gas passage 4 for heat reuse. A flue gas outlet 41 is also provided on the flue gas passage 4. Preferably, the flue gas outlet 41 is located at the upper part of the flue gas passage 4.

[0092] To better transfer heat, a first heat-conducting fin 12 is provided on the inner wall of the heat exchanger 1, and a second heat-conducting fin 13 is provided on the inner wall of the reaction chamber 31. The first heat-conducting fin 12 and the second heat-conducting fin 13 are generally made of copper-based, aluminum-based or other high heat-resistant and thermally conductive materials, which can be directly purchased on the market.

[0093] In addition, as a preferred embodiment, the heat exchanger 1, the gasification chamber 2, the reaction chamber 3 and the flue gas passage 4 are an integrated structure made of a high thermal conductivity material, which can be formed by 3D printing technology.

[0094] Considering the balance between high thermal conductivity, lightweight miniaturization, portability, and processing and usage costs, the integrated structure of this embodiment can also be preferably made of materials such as aluminum.

[0095] In this embodiment, the heat exchanger 1 is also provided with an end cover at the top to seal the top of the integrated structure. Preferably, a hydrogen outlet, a reaction chamber temperature sensor, and a vaporization chamber temperature sensor are provided on the end cover.

[0096] Insulation material can also be wrapped around the outer wall of flue gas duct 4 to prevent heat loss and avoid burns during operation.

[0097] In addition, a fuel unit and an air intake unit are installed outside the combustion chamber. The fuel unit supplies fuel to the combustion chamber, and the air intake unit supplies air to the combustion chamber to assist combustion. Preferably, the air intake unit is equipped with an air pump or an air intake fan.

[0098] Preferably, in this embodiment, methanol is used as fuel. The fuel device is equipped with two pipelines: one leads to the feed channel 22 to provide gasification feedstock, and the other delivers methanol to the combustion chamber for combustion. Specifically, approximately 90% of the methanol enters the feed channel 22 for gasification, and approximately 10% of the methanol enters the combustion chamber for combustion.

[0099] Preferably, the feedstock entering the gasification chamber 2 can be methanol and / or methanol-water, and correspondingly, hydrogen production can be completed in the reaction chamber 3 by cracking and / or reforming.

[0100] Example 3: The hydrogen fuel cell provided in this embodiment uses hydrogen supplied by a small-scale methanol-to-hydrogen device provided in any one of Examples 1-2. For details, please refer to Examples 1-2 and the appendix to the instruction manual. Figure 1-7 .

[0101] Even better, the hydrogen provided by the small methanol-to-hydrogen apparatus provided in any one of Examples 1-2 can be purified, condensed, and dried before being used in the hydrogen fuel cell of this embodiment.

[0102] Example 4: The hydrogen engine provided in this embodiment uses hydrogen supplied by a small-scale methanol-to-hydrogen device provided in any one of Embodiments 1-2. For details, please refer to Embodiments 1-2 and the appendix to the instruction manual. Figure 1-7 .

[0103] In addition, a control module is also provided on the small-scale methanol-to-hydrogen unit. Preferably, the control module can be integrated with the fuel unit and the gas inlet unit and arranged at the end of the heat exchanger 1 away from the end cover. The control module is used to control conditions such as the feed rate and flow rate of fuel and reaction raw materials, as well as temperature.

[0104] Even better, the hydrogen provided by the small methanol-to-hydrogen apparatus provided in any one of Examples 1-2 can be purified, condensed, and dried before being used in the hydrogen engine of this embodiment.

[0105] Example 5: The hydrogen-blended engine provided in this embodiment uses hydrogen supplied by a small-scale methanol-to-hydrogen device provided in any one of Examples 1-2. For details, please refer to Examples 1-2 and the appendix to the instruction manual. Figure 1-7 .

[0106] In addition, a control module is also provided on the small-scale methanol-to-hydrogen unit. Preferably, the control module can be integrated with the fuel unit and the gas inlet unit and arranged at the end of the heat exchanger 1 away from the end cover. The control module is used to control conditions such as the feed rate and flow rate of fuel and reaction raw materials, as well as temperature.

[0107] Preferably, this hydrogen-blended engine is a dual-fuel engine that uses methanol as the main fuel and incorporates hydrogen for combustion. The hydrogen is provided by the small methanol-to-hydrogen device provided in any one of Examples 1-2. The hydrogen is condensed and dried before being incorporated into methanol for combustion, which can make the combustion faster and more complete and improve thermal efficiency.

[0108] In addition, this dual-fuel engine can also use gasoline, diesel, or other fuels as its primary fuel.

[0109] Example 6: This embodiment provides the application of the hydrogen-blended dual-fuel engine provided in Embodiment 5 in automobiles. In this embodiment, the control module function can be integrated into the automobile ECU to adjust the hydrogen supply according to the needs of the automobile's driving conditions, so as to achieve on-demand production.

[0110] Preferably, this hydrogen-blended dual-fuel engine uses methanol as the primary fuel, with a hydrogen blending ratio of 1-30% by volume, and the hydrogen is supplied by the small-scale methanol-to-hydrogen device provided in any one of Examples 1-2. After condensation and drying, the hydrogen is blended into methanol at a volume ratio of 1-30% for combustion, which enables faster and more complete combustion and improves thermal efficiency.

[0111] Specifically, vehicles using this solution experience a 30-60% reduction in total methanol consumption, a 30% or more improvement in power performance, reaching the level of gasoline engines of the same displacement; and a 50% or more reduction in start-up time, as well as a significant reduction in unconventional emissions such as aldehydes, demonstrating significant market application prospects and economic benefits.

[0112] As another preferred option, this hydrogen-blended dual-fuel engine uses gasoline as the primary fuel, with a hydrogen blending ratio of 1-30% by volume, and hydrogen is supplied by a small methanol-to-hydrogen device provided by any of options 1-2. After condensation and drying, the hydrogen is blended into methanol at a volume ratio of 1-30% for combustion, which enables faster and more complete combustion and improves thermal efficiency.

[0113] Specifically, cars using this solution achieve a comprehensive fuel saving rate of 5-20%, a low-speed torque increase of 8-15%, and a reduction in HC and CO emissions of 20-40%.

[0114] As another preferred option, this hydrogen-blended dual-fuel engine uses diesel as the main fuel, with a hydrogen blending ratio of 1-30% by volume. The hydrogen is supplied by a small methanol-to-hydrogen device provided by any one of items 1-2. After condensation and drying, the hydrogen is blended into methanol at a volume ratio of 1-30% for combustion, which enables faster and more complete combustion and improves thermal efficiency.

[0115] Specifically, cars using this solution experience a 30-60% reduction in particulate matter (PM) emissions, a 2-5 decibel reduction in combustion noise, a shorter ignition delay, and more stable combustion.

[0116] The above descriptions are merely embodiments of the present invention, and common knowledge regarding specific structures and characteristics in the solutions is not described in detail here. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the structure of the present invention, and these should also be considered within the scope of protection of the present invention. These modifications and improvements will not affect the effectiveness of the implementation of the present invention or the practicality of the patent.

Claims

1. A small-scale methanol-to-hydrogen device, comprising a heat exchanger, a vaporization chamber, and a reaction chamber, characterized in that: The heat exchanger is provided with a receiving cavity, and a self-heating unit is arranged in the receiving cavity to provide heat for the gasification chamber and the reaction chamber.

2. The small-scale methanol-to-hydrogen device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The self-heating unit includes a combustion chamber for generating heat through combustion.

3. The small-scale methanol-to-hydrogen apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The gasification chamber is located at the top or upper part of the heat exchanger.

4. The small-scale methanol-to-hydrogen apparatus according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that: The reaction chamber is arranged circumferentially along the outer periphery of the heat exchanger.

5. The small-scale methanol-to-hydrogen apparatus according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that: The reaction chamber includes multiple reaction chambers, through which the reaction gas passes sequentially.

6. The small-scale methanol-to-hydrogen apparatus according to any one of claims 2-5, characterized in that: A flue gas channel is arranged around the outer periphery of the reaction chamber to recover the heat from the combustion flue gas.

7. The small-scale methanol-to-hydrogen device according to claim 6, characterized in that: The heat exchanger, gasification chamber, reaction chamber, and flue gas passage are an integrated structure.

8. The small-scale methanol-to-hydrogen apparatus according to any one of claims 2-7, characterized in that: The combustion chamber is equipped with a fuel device and an air intake device to provide raw materials for the combustion chamber.

9. A hydrogen fuel cell, hydrogen engine, or hydrogen-blended engine, characterized in that: The hydrogen used in the hydrogen fuel cell, hydrogen engine, or hydrogen-blended engine is supplied by the small methanol-to-hydrogen device as described in any one of claims 1-8.

10. The application of the small-scale methanol-to-hydrogen device and / or hydrogen fuel cell and / or hydrogen engine and / or hydrogen-blended engine as described in any one of claims 1-9 in automobiles.

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