Systems and methods for the pyrolysis of plastics

Abstract

a flame injector for injecting ambient air and combustible material into the heating chamber; a pumping device with an input coupled to the heating chamber and an output coupled to the pressure input of the pumping chamber; an O2 sensor in the heating chamber and / or a pressure transducer in the pumping chamber; and a controller coupled to the O2 sensor, wherein the pressure transducer, the flame injector, and the pumping device control the flame injector to inject the ambient air and / or combustible material to maintain an O2 concentration in the heating chamber within 8% to 10% and / or control the pumping device to maintain the pressure in the pumping chamber above ambient pressure.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The methods and apparatus disclosed herein relate to the field of pyrolysis, and more particularly, but not exclusively, to the sustained pyrolysis of plastic materials. [Background technology]

[0002] Pyrolysis methods and systems are known, but operate in a batch mode. Sustained pyrolysis has advantages over batch pyrolysis, however, delivering the pyrolysis material in the presence of ambient air can introduce oxygen into the pyrolysis chamber and inhibit the pyrolysis process.

[0003] Thus, there is a widely recognized need for, and it would be highly advantageous to have, a system and method for a sustained pyrolysis process that overcomes the above-mentioned limitations. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] According to one exemplary embodiment, there is provided a pyrolysis chamber including a first input opening and a first output opening, a heating chamber including a second input opening and a second output opening, a feed chamber including a third feed opening open to the ambient atmosphere and arranged to receive the pulverized material, a third pressure opening, and a third output opening coupled to the first input opening of the pyrolysis chamber, a flame injector device coupled to the second input opening of the heating chamber and for injecting ambient air and combustible material into the heating chamber, a pumping device including an input opening coupled to the second output opening of the heating chamber, and an output opening coupled to the third pressure opening of the feed chamber, and disposed within the heating chamber. A method and system for sustained pyrolysis is provided that includes an oxygen (O2) sensor, and alternatively a carbon dioxide (CO2) sensor, and / or a pressure transducer disposed in the feed chamber, and a controller electrically coupled to the O2 sensor, the pressure transducer, the flame injector, and the pumping device, wherein the controller controls the flame injector device to inject at least one of ambient air and / or combustible material to maintain a heating chamber O2 concentration within 8% to 10%, and / or the pumping device to maintain a pressure in the feed chamber above ambient pressure to prevent ambient air from entering the feed chamber through the third feed opening.

[0005] According to another exemplary embodiment, the pyrolysis chamber may be located within the heating chamber.

[0006] According to yet another exemplary embodiment, the heating chamber may additionally include a rotary input opening and a rotary output opening.

[0007] According to yet another exemplary embodiment, an input pipe may be disposed within the rotary input opening and connect between the third output opening of the feed chamber and the first input opening of the pyrolysis chamber.

[0008] Furthermore, according to another exemplary embodiment, an output pipe is disposed within the rotary output opening and is coupled to the first output opening of the pyrolysis chamber.

[0009] Still further, according to another exemplary embodiment, the pyrolysis chamber is arranged to rotate within the heating chamber.

[0010] Still further, according to another exemplary embodiment, the flame injector device is controlled by the controller to heat the pyrolysis chamber to a predetermined temperature.

[0011] Still further, the pyrolysis chamber has a cylindrical shape, with the cylindrical sides being made from a thermally conductive material.

[0012] Additionally, according to another exemplary embodiment, a one-way valve device may be coupled to a first output opening of the pyrolysis chamber to allow a continuous flow of gaseous material out of the pyrolysis chamber and to prevent the flow of ambient air into the pyrolysis chamber through the first output opening.

[0013] According to yet another exemplary embodiment, a conveyor device may be arranged to propel the comminuted material from the feed chamber to the pyrolysis chamber.

[0014] According to yet another exemplary embodiment, a conveyor device may be arranged to propel the comminuted material from the feed chamber into the pyrolysis chamber, and an inductive heating device may be used to heat the comminuted material inside the pyrolysis chamber.

[0015] Furthermore, according to another exemplary embodiment, the pyrolysis chamber may be made of thermally insulating materials and may contain inductive elements, including ferromagnetic and ferrimagnetic materials, for being heated by an inductive heating device to heat the pulverized material.

[0016] Still further, according to another exemplary embodiment, the inductive elements may be affixed within the pyrolysis chamber or freely dispersed within the pyrolysis chamber.

[0017] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art. The materials, methods, and examples provided herein are illustrative only and are not intended to be limiting. No particular order is intended or implied for each step or stage of the methods and processes described in this disclosure, including the drawings, except to the extent necessary or inherent in the process itself. In many cases, the order of each step of a process can be varied without changing the purpose or effect of the method described. The present specification also provides, for example, the following items: (Item 1) 1. A system for sustained pyrolysis comprising: a pyrolysis chamber having a first input opening and a first output opening; a heating chamber having a second input opening and a second output opening; A delivery chamber comprising: a third feed opening open to the ambient atmosphere and arranged to receive the comminuted material; and a third pressure opening; a third output opening coupled to the first input opening of the pyrolysis chamber; and a delivery chamber comprising: a flame injector device coupled to the second input opening of the heating chamber for injecting ambient air and combustible material into the heating chamber; 1. A pumping device comprising: an input opening coupled to the second output opening of the heating chamber; an output opening coupled to the third pressure opening of the delivery chamber; A pumping device comprising: O disposed in the heating chamber 2 Sensors, and A pressure transducer disposed within the delivery chamber. At least one of the following: The above O 2 a controller electrically coupled to a sensor, to the pressure transducer, to the flame injector, and to the pumping device, 8%-10% O in a heating chamber 2 controlling the flame injector device to inject at least one of ambient air and the combustible material to maintain the concentration; and controlling the pumping device to maintain a pressure in the feed chamber above ambient pressure to prevent ambient air from entering the feed chamber through the third feed opening. a controller configured to maintain at least one of A system comprising: (Item 2) 2. The sustained pyrolysis system of claim 1, wherein the pyrolysis chamber is located within the heating chamber. (Item 3) said heating chamber additionally comprising a rotary input opening and a rotary output opening; an input pipe disposed within the rotary input opening and connecting between the third output opening of the feed chamber and the first input opening of the pyrolysis chamber; an output pipe disposed within the rotary output opening and coupled to the first output opening of the pyrolysis chamber; and the pyrolysis chamber is arranged to rotate within the heating chamber; The flame injector device is controlled by the controller to heat the pyrolysis chamber to a predetermined temperature. Item 2. The sustained pyrolysis system according to item 2. (Item 4) 4. The sustained pyrolysis system of item 3, wherein the pyrolysis chamber has a cylindrical shape and the cylindrical side is made of a thermally conductive material. (Item 5) a one-way valve device coupled to the first output opening of the pyrolysis chamber to permit a continuous flow of gaseous material out of the pyrolysis chamber and to prevent the flow of ambient air into the pyrolysis chamber through the first output opening. The sustained pyrolysis system according to item 1, further comprising: (Item 6) a conveyor device arranged to propel the comminuted material from the feed chamber to the pyrolysis chamber; The sustained pyrolysis system according to item 1, further comprising: (Item 7) a conveyor device arranged to propel the comminuted material from the feed chamber into the pyrolysis chamber; an inductive heating device for heating the comminuted material inside the pyrolysis chamber; The sustained pyrolysis system according to item 1, further comprising: (Item 8) the pyrolysis chamber is made of a thermally insulating material; the pyrolysis chamber contains at least one inductive element comprising at least one of a ferromagnetic and a ferrimagnetic material for being heated by the inductive heating device for heating the comminuted material; Item 1. The sustained pyrolysis system according to item 1. (Item 9) The inductive element is being attached within the pyrolysis chamber; and Freely dispersing within said pyrolysis chamber 9. The sustained pyrolysis system according to item 8, wherein the sustained pyrolysis system comprises at least one of the following: (Item 10) 1. A method for sustained pyrolysis, the method comprising: providing a pyrolysis system; The pyrolysis system comprises: a pyrolysis chamber having a first input opening and a first output opening; a heating chamber having a second input opening and a second output opening; A delivery chamber comprising: a third feed opening open to the ambient atmosphere and arranged to receive the comminuted material; and a third pressure opening; a third output opening coupled to the first input opening of the pyrolysis chamber; and a delivery chamber comprising: a flame injector device coupled to the second input opening of the heating chamber for injecting ambient air and a combustible material into the heating chamber; 1. A pumping device comprising: an input opening coupled to the second output opening of the heating chamber; an output opening coupled to the third pressure opening of the delivery chamber; A pumping device comprising: O disposed in the heating chamber 2 Sensors, and A pressure transducer disposed within the delivery chamber. At least one of the following: The above O 2 a controller electrically coupled to a sensor, to the pressure transducer, to the flame injector, and to the pumping device, 8% to 10% O in the heating chamber 2 controlling, by the controller, the flame injector device to inject at least one of the ambient air and the combustible material to maintain a concentration; controlling the pumping device by the controller to maintain a pressure in the feed chamber above ambient pressure to prevent ambient air from entering the feed chamber through the third feed opening; The controller and A method comprising: (Item 11) 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the pyrolysis chamber is located within the heating chamber. (Item 12) providing said heating chamber additionally comprising a rotary input opening and a rotary output opening; providing an input pipe disposed within the rotary input opening and connecting between the third output opening of the feed chamber and the first input opening of the pyrolysis chamber; providing an output pipe disposed within the rotary output opening and coupled to the first output opening of the pyrolysis chamber; rotating the pyrolysis chamber within the heating chamber; controlling the flame injector device by the controller to heat the pyrolysis chamber to a predetermined temperature; 12. The method according to item 11, further comprising: (Item 13) 13. The method according to claim 12, wherein the pyrolysis chamber has a cylindrical shape and the cylindrical side is made of a thermally conductive material. (Item 14) outputting the gaseous material from the pyrolysis chamber through a one-way valve device coupled to the first output opening of the pyrolysis chamber to permit a continuous flow of the gaseous material out of the pyrolysis chamber and to prevent the flow of ambient air into the pyrolysis chamber through the first output opening. 11. The method according to item 10, further comprising: (Item 15) propelling said comminuted material from said feed chamber to said pyrolysis chamber using a conveyor device. 11. The method according to item 10, further comprising: (Item 16) Providing an inductive heating device; providing a conveyor device between the feed chamber and the pyrolysis chamber; propelling the comminuted material from the feed chamber into the pyrolysis chamber using the conveyor device; heating the comminuted material inside the pyrolysis chamber using the inductive heating device; 11. The method according to item 10, further comprising: (Item 17) the pyrolysis chamber is made of a thermally insulating material; 11. The method according to claim 10, further comprising dispersing in the pyrolysis chamber at least one inductive element comprising at least one of a ferromagnetic and a ferrimagnetic material for being heated by the inductive heating device for heating the pulverized material. (Item 18) The inductive element is is attached within the pyrolysis chamber; and Freely dispersed within the pyrolysis chamber Item 18. The method according to item 17, wherein the method is at least one of the following: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0018] Various embodiments are described herein, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. With particular reference now to the drawings in detail, emphasis has been placed on the fact that the particulars shown are presented by way of example only for the purpose of illustrative discussion of preferred embodiments, and to provide what is believed to be the most useful and easily understood explanation of the principles and conceptual aspects of the embodiments. In this regard, no attempt is made to show structural details of the embodiments in more detail than is necessary for a fundamental understanding of the subject matter, and the description is accompanied by drawings that will make apparent to those skilled in the art how some forms and structures may be embodied in practice.

[0019] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a simplified cross-sectional diagram of a sustained pyrolysis system. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2A is a simplified cross-sectional diagram of an inductive sustained pyrolysis system. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2B is a simplified vertical side view of an inductive sustained pyrolysis system. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a simplified cross-sectional diagram of a heating chamber, which may be an optional component of an inductive sustained pyrolysis system. [Figure 4A] FIG. 4A is a simplified longitudinal cross-sectional diagram of an inductive sustained pyrolysis system with a stationary body. [Figure 4B]FIG. 4B is a simplified transverse cross-sectional view of an inductive sustained pyrolysis system with a stationary body. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a simplified transverse cross-sectional diagram of an inductive sustained pyrolysis system with a double stationary body and a spiral conveyor. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a simplified transverse cross-sectional diagram of an inductive sustained pyrolysis system with a dual stationary body and a propeller conveyor. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a simplified cross-sectional diagram of a vertically rotating, induction-driven sustained pyrolysis system with a stationary agitator. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a simplified cross-sectional diagram of a vertical stationary induction sustained pyrolysis system with a vertically rotating agitator. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0020] The present embodiments include systems and methods for sustained pyrolysis, particularly the sustained pyrolysis process of plastic materials such as, but not limited to, polyethylene, polypropylene, and the like.

[0021] Before describing at least one embodiment in detail, it is to be understood that each embodiment is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. Other embodiments may be practiced or carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

[0022] Elements of the drawings that are labeled in this document with numbers that are not described within the drawings but are described in the previous drawings have the same purpose and description as in the previous drawings. Similarly, elements identified in the text by numbers that do not appear in the drawings described by the text have the same purpose and description as in the previous drawings in which they are described.

[0023] Drawings in this document may not be to scale. Different figures may use different scales, and different scales may even be used within the same drawing, for example, different scales for different views of the same object, or different scales for two adjacent objects.

[0024] Reference is now made to FIG. 1, which is a cross-sectional simplified diagram of a sustained pyrolysis system 10, according to one exemplary embodiment.

[0025] 1, the sustained pyrolysis system 10 may include a pyrolysis chamber 11, a heating chamber 12, and a feed chamber 13. The pyrolysis chamber 11 may typically include a first input opening 14 and a first output opening 15.

[0026] The heating chamber 12 may typically include a second input opening 16 and a second output opening 17. The feed chamber 13 may typically include a third feed opening 18 open to the ambient atmosphere and arranged to receive the ground and / or shredded material, a third pressure opening 19, and a third output opening 20 coupled to the first input opening 14 of the pyrolysis chamber 11. The ground and / or shredded material may typically be a plastic material such as polyethylene, polypropylene, etc. These materials may be ground and / or shredded into pieces of substantially similar size to achieve further dispersion of heat among the ground and / or shredded particles.

[0027] The sustained pyrolysis system 10 may additionally include a flame injector (e.g., burner) 21 coupled to the second input opening 16 of the heating chamber 12. The flame injector device 21 is arranged to collect ambient air and pump or inject it into the heating chamber 12 through the second input opening 16. The flame injector device 21 is additionally arranged to inject a flammable material into the heating chamber 12 through the second input opening 16. For example, the flame injector device 21 may mix the flammable material with the ambient air, ignite the flammable material in a combustion flame, and inject the combustible (combustible) material 22 into the heating chamber 12 through the second input opening 16. In particular, the flame injector device 21 may control the amount of each of the flammable materials together with the ambient air and / or control the mixing ratio of the flammable material and the ambient air.

[0028] The sustained pyrolysis system 10 may additionally include a pumping device 23, which may typically include an input opening 24, which is typically coupled to the second output opening 17 of the heating chamber through a pipe 25, and an output opening 26, which is typically coupled to the third pressure opening 19 of the feed chamber through a pipe 27.

[0029] The sustained pyrolysis system 10 may additionally include an oxygen (O2) sensor 28, which may be disposed within the heating chamber 12 or at the output of the heating chamber 12, as shown in Figure 1. The O2 sensor 28 may provide a measurement of the O2 content and / or concentration within the heating chamber 12, and in particular at the input to the pumping device 23. It should be understood that the O2 sensor 28 may be replaced by a CO2 sensor or a similar sensor.

[0030] The sustained pyrolysis system 10 may additionally include a pressure transducer 29, which may be disposed within the feed chamber 13. As shown in FIG. 1, the third output opening 20 of the feed chamber 13 may be coupled to the first input opening 14 of the pyrolysis chamber 11 through a pipe 30, which includes a conveyor device 31, and the pressure transducer 29 may be disposed inside the pipe 30. The conveyor device 31 may be used to transport the comminuted material from the feed chamber 13 to the pyrolysis chamber 11 through the pipe 30. The pressure transducer 29 may provide a measurement of the gas pressure within the feed chamber 13 and / or the pipe 30.

[0031] The sustained pyrolysis system 10 may additionally include a temperature sensor 32, which may be disposed within the pyrolysis chamber 11 and / or at the output of the pyrolysis chamber 11. The temperature sensor 32 may provide a temperature measurement of the gaseous material within the pyrolysis chamber 11.

[0032] The sustained pyrolysis system 10 may additionally include a controller 33. The controller 33 may be any type of computing device or system and may typically include at least one processor, at least one memory and / or storage device, and at least one communication device or interface that allows the processor to communicate input and / or output data and / or control at least one sensor device, drive device, motor, pump, etc.

[0033] The controller 33 may be electrically and / or controllably electrically coupled to the flame injector 21 via connection element A, and to the pumping device 23 via connection element B, and / or to the O2 sensor 28 via connection element C, and / or to the pressure transducer 29 via connection element D, and / or to the temperature sensor 32 via connection element E.

[0034] The controller 33 may be configured to control the flame injector device 21 to inject ambient air and / or combustible material into the heating chamber 12, for example, in accordance with measurements received from the temperature sensor 32, to maintain a predetermined temperature and / or temperature range.

[0035] The controller 33 may additionally be configured to control the flame injector device 21 to inject ambient air and / or combustible material into the heating chamber 12, for example, to maintain a predetermined concentration of O2 within the heating chamber 12. For example, the controller 33 may control the concentration of O2 according to measurements received from the O2 sensor 28. For example, the controller 33 may control the concentration of O2 to between 8% and 12%.

[0036] The controller 33 may additionally be configured to control the pumping device 23, for example, to maintain a pressure in the feed chamber 13, or the pipe 30. For example, the controller 33 may control the pressure in the feed chamber 13 according to measurements received by the pressure sensor 29. For example, the controller 33 may control the pressure to a value above the pressure of the ambient atmosphere to prevent ambient air from entering the feed chamber 13, and / or the pipe 30, and / or the pyrolysis chamber 11.

[0037] It is understood that a steering device, such as an electric motor (not shown), may be coupled to the pyrolysis chamber 11 to rotate it so that the pulverized material 34 entering the pyrolysis chamber 11 through the pipe 30 may be distributed throughout the pyrolysis chamber 11. It is understood that the pyrolysis chamber 11 may rotate within the heating chamber 12 and / or around the input pipe 30 and the output pipe 35. It is understood that the pyrolysis chamber 11 may have a cylindrical shape and the cylindrical side (envelope) may be made of a thermally conductive material.

[0038] The pyrolysis chamber 11 may be coupled to a check valve device 36 via an output pipe 35 to allow a continuous flow of gaseous material out of the pyrolysis chamber 11 and to prevent the flow of ambient air into the pyrolysis chamber 11 through the output opening.

[0039] As shown in Fig. 1, the pyrolysis chamber 11 may be located within the heating chamber 12. The heating chamber 12 may include a rotary input opening 14 and a rotary output opening 15. An input pipe 30 disposed within the rotary input opening may be connected between the output opening of the feed chamber 13 and the input opening of the pyrolysis chamber 11. An output pipe 35 disposed within the rotary output opening may be connected between the output opening of the pyrolysis chamber 11 and a check valve device 36. Thus, the pyrolysis chamber may rotate within the heating chamber 12.

[0040] The pyrolysis chamber 11 may rotate about a transverse axis 37 and / or about the rotary input and output openings described above. The pyrolysis chamber 11 may rotate to distribute (and redistribute) the comminuted material 34 throughout the pyrolysis chamber 11, and to distribute heat throughout the comminuted material 34 within the pyrolysis chamber 11.

[0041] Reference is now made to FIG. 2A, which is a simplified cross-sectional view of an inductively sustained pyrolysis system 38 according to one exemplary embodiment, and to FIG. 2B, which is a simplified cross-sectional view of a vertical (horizontal) side of the inductively sustained pyrolysis system 38.

[0042] As an option, the illustrations of Figures 2A and 2B may be taken in the context of the previous figures. Of course, however, the illustrations of Figures 2A and 2B may be taken in the context of any desired environment. Moreover, the above definitions may be applied to the following description as well.

[0043] As shown in FIG. 2A, the inductive sustained pyrolysis system 38 may include a pyrolysis chamber 39 including a thermally insulated wall 40, an input opening 41 and an output opening 42 in the wall 40, and an inductive heat element 43.

[0044] 2B, the inductively sustained pyrolysis system 38 may have a cylindrical shape and may rotate along its axis, for example, around openings 41 and 42, as shown by arrow 44. The pyrolysis system 38 may rotate to distribute (and redistribute) the comminuted material throughout the pyrolysis chamber, and to distribute heat throughout the comminuted material within the pyrolysis chamber.

[0045] The inductive heat elements 43 may be distributed throughout the pyrolysis chamber 39 or within a limited area of ​​the pyrolysis chamber 39. The inductive heat elements 43 may be fixedly attached to the pyrolysis chamber 39 at 40. Alternatively, the inductive heat elements 43 may be free to move within the pyrolysis chamber 39, such as small rods or beads. A temperature sensor 45 may be disposed inside the pyrolysis chamber 39.

[0046] The inductive sustained pyrolysis system 38 may additionally include an induction radiator 46, which may be disposed outside the pyrolysis chamber 39, beside a wall 40 of the pyrolysis chamber 39. The induction radiator 46 may be attached to the wall 40 of the pyrolysis chamber 39. The induction radiator 46 may be radiatively coupled to the inductive heat element 43 using electromagnetic radiation. The induction radiator 46 may include a power supply 47, or may be electrically coupled thereto, to deliver electrical current to the induction radiator 46.

[0047] The inductive sustained pyrolysis system 38 may additionally include a separator 48 coupled to the opening 42. The separator 42 separates the output produced by the pyrolysis chamber 39 into gaseous material (via opening 49), liquid material (via opening 50), and solid or ash material (opening 51), and may also function as a check valve to exclude ambient air from entering the pyrolysis chamber 39 through the opening 42. As shown in FIG. 2A, the separator 48 is arranged as a reverse siphon trap, however, other arrangements are envisioned.

[0048] Alternatively, as shown in Figure 2B, the induction radiator 46 may be mounted near the wall 40 of the pyrolysis chamber 39 without touching the wall 40 so that the pyrolysis chamber 39 may rotate relative to the rotating induction radiator 46. The induction radiator 46 may be mounted directly underneath the pyrolysis chamber 39. Alternatively, as shown in Figure 2B, the induction radiator 46 may be mounted at an angle that rotates ahead of the bottom of the pyrolysis chamber 39 so that when the individual induction heating elements 43 reach their lowest point in the pyrolysis chamber 39, the heating of the induction heating elements 43 reaches a maximum value.

[0049] As shown in Fig. 2A, the inductive sustained pyrolysis system 38 may additionally include a feed chamber 52 including an input opening 53 for receiving the pulverized material and an output opening 54 for providing the pulverized material to the input opening 41 of the pyrolysis chamber 39. The pulverized material may typically be a plastic material such as polyethylene, polypropylene, etc. The output opening 54 of the feed chamber 52 and the input opening 41 of the pyrolysis chamber 39 may be connected by a tube 55.

[0050] The inductively sustained pyrolysis system 38 may additionally include a nitrogen source 56, such as a nitrogen generator, such as a membrane nitrogen generator or a pressure swing adsorption (PSA) nitrogen generator. The nitrogen source 56 may be coupled to the feed chamber 52 or to the tube 55, for example, via a pipe 57. A pump 58 coupled to an input opening of the nitrogen source 56 may pump air into the nitrogen source 56. Alternatively, or in addition, a pump 59 may be coupled to the pipe 57 to pump nitrogen into the feed chamber 52 or the tube 55.

[0051] A nitrogen source 56 and pump 58 pump nitrogen into the feed chamber 52 or tube 55 to maintain a pressure above ambient pressure to prevent ambient air from entering the pyrolysis chamber 39. The gas pressure in the feed chamber 52 or tube 55 can be measured using a pressure sensor 60 disposed in the feed chamber 52 or tube 55.

[0052] The inductive sustained pyrolysis system 38 may additionally include a controller 61. The controller 61 may be any type of computing device or system and may typically include at least one processor, at least one memory and / or storage device, and at least one communication device or interface that allows the processor to communicate input and / or output data and / or control at least one sensor device, drive device, motor, pump, etc.

[0053] The controller 61 may be electrically and / or controllably electrically coupled to the pumping devices 58 and 59 via connection element A, and / or to the pressure transducer 60 via connection element B, and / or to the temperature sensor 45 via connection element C.

[0054] Additionally, the controller 61 may be electrically and / or controllably electrically coupled, via connection element D, to the induction radiator 46, for example by controlling the power supply 47. The controller 61 may be electrically and / or controllably electrically coupled, via connection element E, to a conveyor 62 that conveys the comminuted material from the feed chamber 52 into the pyrolysis chamber 39, for example by controlling a motor 63. The controller 61 may be electrically and / or controllably electrically coupled, via connection element F, to a motor 64 that rotates the pyrolysis chamber 39.

[0055] The controller 61 may be configured to control the induction radiator 46, and / or the conveyor 62, and / or the motor 64, for example, in accordance with measurements received from the temperature sensor 45, to maintain a predetermined temperature and / or temperature range.

[0056] Reference is now made to FIG. 3, which is a cross-sectional simplified diagram of a heating chamber 65, which may be an optional component of the inductive sustained pyrolysis system 38, according to one exemplary embodiment.

[0057] As an option, the illustration of Figure 3 may be viewed in the context of the previous figures. Of course, however, the illustration of Figure 3 may be viewed in the context of any desired environment. Moreover, the above definitions may apply to the following description as well.

[0058] Heating chamber 65 of Figure 3 may be substituted for nitrogen source 56 of Figure 2A. Heating chamber 65 of Figure 3 operates similarly to heating chamber 12 of Figure 1, but is used only to provide low oxygen gas content to delivery chamber 52 or pipe 55.

[0059] The heating chamber 65 of FIG. 3 may include a flame thruster 66, and an O2 sensor 67, and a source of flammable material 68. The flame thruster 66 may control the amount and mixture of ambient air and flammable material, inject the ambient air and flammable material into the heating chamber 65, ignite the flame, and produce a gaseous material having low levels of O2. The controller 61 may then be configured to receive O2 measurements from the O2 sensor 67 (e.g., via connector G) and control the flame thruster 66 (e.g., via connector H) accordingly to produce a gaseous material having an O2 concentration of 6% to 12%. It should be understood that the O2 sensor may be replaced by a CO2 sensor or similar sensor.

[0060] Reference is now made to FIG. 4A, which is a simplified longitudinal cross-sectional view of an inductively sustained pyrolysis system 69 with a stationary pyrolysis chamber 70, according to one exemplary embodiment, and reference is made to FIG. 4B, which is a simplified transverse cross-sectional view of an inductively sustained pyrolysis system 69 with a stationary pyrolysis chamber 70.

[0061] As an option, the illustrations of Figures 4A and 4B may be taken in the context of the previous figures. Of course, however, the illustrations of Figures 4A and 4B may be taken in the context of any desired environment. Moreover, the above definitions may be applied to the following description as well.

[0062] As shown in Figures 4A and 4B, the inductively sustained pyrolysis system 69 may include an air pump 58 coupled to an input opening of a nitrogen source 56 (such as nitrogen source 56 in Figure 2A), the output of which may be coupled to a stationary pyrolysis chamber 70 through a pipe 57 and a pump 58 that pumps nitrogen into the stationary pyrolysis chamber 70.

[0063] The stationary pyrolysis chamber 70 may include a gas output 71 and a liquid and ash output 72, as well as a feed chamber 52 with an opening 53 for feeding the comminuted material into the stationary pyrolysis chamber 70. The gas output 71 may be coupled to a check valve device, such as check valve device 36 of FIG. 1, or separator 48 of FIG. 2B, or any similar device.

[0064] The stationary pyrolysis chamber 70 may include an inner layer 73 of solid non-ferrous material, an outer layer 74 of insulating material, and an inductor (inductive radiator) 75 embedded in the outer layer. The inductor 75 may include or be electrically connected to a power supply 47 for delivering electrical current to the inductor 75.

[0065] The stationary pyrolysis chamber 70 may include a conveyor or agitator, such as a worm, or a spiral conveyor 76, to distribute the crushed or chopped material, which may enter through the feed chamber 52, throughout the stationary pyrolysis chamber 70. The conveyor or agitator 76 may be made from a ferrous material or similar material that may absorb the radiation emitted by the inductor 75. Thus, the conveyor or agitator 76 may also produce heat and distribute the heat among the crushed or chopped material that is distributed within the stationary pyrolysis chamber 70.

[0066] Pyrolysis chamber 70 is stationary in the sense that it does not rotate, like pyrolysis chamber 11 of Figure 1 and / or pyrolysis chamber 39 of Figures 2A and 2B. Instead, a conveyor or agitator 76 rotates to distribute heat as well as the ground or shredded material within pyrolysis chamber 70. Stationary pyrolysis chamber 70, motor 77, and shaft 78 for rotating conveyor or agitator 76.

[0067] As shown in Figure 4A, the inductively sustained pyrolysis system 69 may include a computing device (controller) 61, similar to the controller 61 of the inductively sustained pyrolysis system 38 of Figure 2A, with similar functionality and connections to components of the inductively sustained pyrolysis system 69, such as sensors, pumps, and motors, to control the pumps 58 and 59, motor 77, and inductor 75, for example, by controlling the current supplied to the power supply 47 and / or inductor 75, for example, to sense temperature, pressure, oxygen concentration, etc.

[0068] Reference is now made to FIG. 5, which is a simplified transverse cross-sectional diagram of an inductive sustained pyrolysis system 79 with dual stationary pyrolysis chambers 80 and two helical conveyors 81, according to one exemplary embodiment.

[0069] As an option, the illustration of Fig. 5 may be viewed in the context of the previous figures. Of course, however, the illustration of Fig. 5 may be viewed in the context of any desired environment. Moreover, the above definitions may apply to the following description as well.

[0070] A pyrolysis chamber, such as stationary pyrolysis chamber 70, may include any number of conveyors, or agitators, such as worms, or spiral conveyors 81. Figure 5 shows such a dual pyrolysis chamber 80 with two spiral conveyors 81. Other than including two spiral conveyors 81, the dual pyrolysis chamber 80 may have a similar structure to the pyrolysis chamber 70. Other than the dual pyrolysis chamber 80, the sustained pyrolysis system 79 may have a similar structure and components to the inductive sustained pyrolysis system 69.

[0071] Reference is now made to FIG. 6, which is a simplified cross-sectional diagram of an inductive sustained pyrolysis system 82 with dual pyrolysis chambers 83 and two propeller conveyors 84, according to one exemplary embodiment.

[0072] As an option, the illustration of Fig. 6 may be viewed in the context of the previous figures. Of course, however, the illustration of Fig. 6 may be viewed in the context of any desired environment. Moreover, the above definitions may apply to the following description as well.

[0073] As shown in Figure 6, the induction sustained pyrolysis system 82 is similar to the induction sustained pyrolysis system 79 of Figure 5, however, instead of the spiral conveyor 81 of the induction sustained pyrolysis system 79, it includes two propeller conveyors 84. The propeller conveyors 84 may each include a number of "wings" 85 distributed along an axis 86 of each propeller conveyor 84, so that when rotated, the wings 85 of the first propeller conveyor 84 do not collide with the wings 85 of the second propeller conveyor 84.

[0074] Reference is now made to FIG. 7, which is a cross-sectional simplified diagram of a vertically rotating pyrolysis chamber 87 with a stationary agitator 88 of an inductively sustained pyrolysis system 89, according to one exemplary embodiment.

[0075] As an option, the illustration of Figure 7 may be viewed in the context of the previous figures. Of course, however, the illustration of Figure 7 may be viewed in the context of any desired environment. Moreover, the above definitions may apply to the following description as well.

[0076] As shown in FIG. 7, the inductively sustained pyrolysis system 89 is similar to the inductively sustained pyrolysis system 38 in FIG. 2A, however, the pyrolysis chamber 87 rotates about a vertical axis and therefore the input and output of the pyrolysis chamber 87 are arranged accordingly.

[0077] It should be understood that the nitrogen source 56 of the inductively sustained pyrolysis system 89 (as shown in FIG. 7) may be replaced by the heating chamber 65 of FIG. 3, or any other source of low-oxygen air or similar gaseous material.

[0078] Reference is now made to FIG. 8, which is a cross-sectional simplified diagram of a vertical stationary inductively-sustained pyrolysis system 90 with a vertically rotating agitator 91, according to one exemplary embodiment.

[0079] As an option, the illustration of Fig. 8 may be viewed in the context of the previous figures. Of course, however, the illustration of Fig. 8 may be viewed in the context of any desired environment. Moreover, the above definitions may apply to the following description as well.

[0080] As shown in FIG. 8, the induction sustained pyrolysis system 90 is similar to the induction sustained pyrolysis system 89 of FIG.

[0081] It should be understood that the nitrogen source 56 of the inductively sustained pyrolysis system 90 (as shown in FIG. 8) may be replaced by the heating chamber 65 of FIG. 3, or any other source of low-oxygen air or similar gaseous material.

[0082] It should be understood that certain features that are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features that are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination.

[0083] Although the description has been provided above in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications, and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. It is therefore intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations that are within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims. All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned herein are incorporated herein in their entirety by reference thereto to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated herein by reference. In addition, citation or identification of any reference in this application should not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art.

Claims

1. A system for pyrolysis, wherein material is continuously fed into the pyrolysis system, the pyrolysis system comprising: a pyrolysis chamber having a first input opening and a first output opening; a heating chamber having a second input opening and a second output opening; A delivery chamber comprising: a third feed opening open to the ambient atmosphere and arranged to receive the comminuted material; and a third pressure opening; and a third output opening coupled to the first input opening of the pyrolysis chamber; and a delivery chamber comprising: a flame injector device coupled to the second input opening of the heating chamber for injecting ambient air and combustible material into the heating chamber; 1. A pumping device comprising: an input opening coupled to the second output opening of the heating chamber; an output opening coupled to the third pressure opening of the delivery chamber; A pumping device comprising: O disposed in the heating chamber ２ Sensors, and A pressure transducer disposed within the delivery chamber. At least one of The above O ２ a controller electrically coupled to a sensor, to the pressure transducer, to the flame injector device, and to the pumping device, 8% to 10% O in the heating chamber ２ controlling the flame injector device to inject at least one of the ambient air and the combustible material to maintain a concentration; and controlling the pumping device to maintain a pressure in the feed chamber above ambient pressure to prevent ambient air from entering the feed chamber through the third feed opening. a controller configured to maintain at least one of A pyrolysis system comprising:

2. The pyrolysis system of claim 1 , wherein the pyrolysis chamber is located within the heating chamber.

3. said heating chamber additionally comprising a rotary input opening and a rotary output opening; an input pipe disposed within the rotary input opening and connecting between the third output opening of the feed chamber and the first input opening of the pyrolysis chamber; an output pipe disposed within the rotary output opening and coupled to the first output opening of the pyrolysis chamber; and the pyrolysis chamber is arranged to rotate within the heating chamber; The flame injector device is controlled by the controller to heat the pyrolysis chamber to a predetermined temperature.

3. The pyrolysis system of claim 2.

4. The pyrolysis system of claim 3 , wherein the pyrolysis chamber has a cylindrical shape and the cylindrical sides are made from a thermally conductive material.

5. a one-way valve device coupled to the first output opening of the pyrolysis chamber to permit a continuous flow of gaseous material out of the pyrolysis chamber and to prevent the flow of ambient air into the pyrolysis chamber through the first output opening.

10. The pyrolysis system of claim 1 additionally comprising:

6. a conveyor device arranged to propel the comminuted material from the feed chamber to the pyrolysis chamber; 10. The pyrolysis system of claim 1 additionally comprising:

7. a conveyor device arranged to propel the comminuted material from the feed chamber into the pyrolysis chamber; an inductive heating device for heating the comminuted material inside the pyrolysis chamber; 10. The pyrolysis system of claim 1 additionally comprising:

8. the pyrolysis chamber is made of a thermally insulating material; the pyrolysis chamber contains at least one inductive element comprising at least one of a ferromagnetic and a ferrimagnetic material for being heated by an inductive heating device for heating the comminuted material; 10. The pyrolysis system of claim 1.

9. The inductive element is being attached within the pyrolysis chamber; and Freely dispersing within said pyrolysis chamber 9. The pyrolysis system of claim 8, wherein the pyrolysis system comprises at least one of:

10. A method for pyrolysis, the method comprising: A pyrolysis system is provided, wherein material is continuously fed into the pyrolysis system, the pyrolysis system comprising: a pyrolysis chamber having a first input opening and a first output opening; a heating chamber having a second input opening and a second output opening; A delivery chamber comprising: a third feed opening open to the ambient atmosphere and arranged to receive the comminuted material; and a third pressure opening; and a third output opening coupled to the first input opening of the pyrolysis chamber; and a delivery chamber comprising: a flame injector device coupled to the second input opening of the heating chamber for injecting ambient air and combustible material into the heating chamber; 1. A pumping device comprising: an input opening coupled to the second output opening of the heating chamber; an output opening coupled to the third pressure opening of the delivery chamber; A pumping device comprising: O disposed in the heating chamber ２ Sensors, and A pressure transducer disposed within the delivery chamber. At least one of The above O ２ a controller electrically coupled to the sensor, to the pressure transducer, to the flame injector device, and to the pumping device; and 8% to 10% O in the heating chamber ２ controlling, by the controller, the flame injector device to inject at least one of the ambient air and the combustible material to maintain a concentration; controlling the pumping device by the controller to maintain a pressure in the feed chamber above ambient pressure to prevent ambient air from entering the feed chamber through the third feed opening; A method comprising:

11. The method of claim 10 , wherein the pyrolysis chamber is located within the heating chamber.

12. providing said heating chamber additionally comprising a rotary input opening and a rotary output opening; providing an input pipe disposed within the rotary input opening and connecting between the third output opening of the feed chamber and the first input opening of the pyrolysis chamber; providing an output pipe disposed within the rotary output opening and coupled to the first output opening of the pyrolysis chamber; rotating the pyrolysis chamber within the heating chamber; controlling the flame injector device by the controller to heat the pyrolysis chamber to a predetermined temperature; The method of claim 11 additionally comprising:

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the pyrolysis chamber has a cylindrical shape and the cylindrical sides are made from a thermally conductive material.

14. outputting the gaseous material out of the pyrolysis chamber through a one-way valve device coupled to the first output opening of the pyrolysis chamber to permit a continuous flow of the gaseous material out of the pyrolysis chamber and to prevent the flow of ambient air into the pyrolysis chamber through the first output opening. The method of claim 10 additionally comprising:

15. propelling said comminuted material from said feed chamber to said pyrolysis chamber using a conveyor device. The method of claim 10 additionally comprising:

16. Providing an inductive heating device; providing a conveyor device between the feed chamber and the pyrolysis chamber; propelling the comminuted material from the feed chamber into the pyrolysis chamber using the conveyor device; heating the comminuted material inside the pyrolysis chamber using the inductive heating device; The method of claim 10 additionally comprising:

17. the pyrolysis chamber is made of a thermally insulating material; 11. The method of claim 10, further comprising dispersing within the pyrolysis chamber at least one inductive element comprising at least one of a ferromagnetic and a ferrimagnetic material for being heated by an inductive heating device for heating the pulverized material.

18. The inductive element is is attached within the pyrolysis chamber; and Freely dispersed within the pyrolysis chamber 20. The method of claim 17, wherein the at least one of

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