Systems and methods for generating electricity using the pyrolysis of plastics

Abstract

A system for generating electricity by pyrolyzing organic material and delivering the pyrolysis fluid to a battery of fuel cells. The system includes a pyrolysis reactor that receives the organic material and produces a pyrolysis fluid. The pyrolysis fluid is then separated into multiple sub-mixtures, each of which is provided via a separate separator output. Multiple fuel cell devices for generating electricity using different technologies are each coupled to the separate separator outputs. A controller controls the pyrolysis reactor, the separator device, and the multiple fuel cell devices according to a signal representing a demand for electricity, a signal representing the cost of operating at least one of the pyrolysis reactor and the fuel cell generator, and a signal representing a minimum price for electricity.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The methods and apparatus disclosed herein relate to the field of power generation, and more particularly, but not exclusively, to the conversion of plastics and / or any other organic material into electrical energy by integrating sustained pyrolysis with fuel cell technology. [Background technology]

[0002] Pyrolysis methods and systems are known and include the pyrolysis of plastic materials into fluid combustible materials. The output of the pyrolysis process, i.e., combustible materials, can then serve to produce electricity using standard internal or external combustion generators.

[0003] Pyrolysis of plastic materials can produce a wide variety of fluid combustible materials, primarily in the form of hydrocarbons. Internal combustion generator technology can use relatively light hydrocarbons and produce electrical energy at relatively higher energy conversion efficiencies, while external combustion generator technology can use relatively heavy hydrocarbons and produce electrical energy at relatively lower energy conversion efficiencies. However, even the higher energy conversion efficiencies of internal combustion generator technology are insufficient. Therefore, there is a widely recognized need for, and it would be highly advantageous to have, systems and methods for sustained pyrolysis processes that overcome the above limitations. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] According to one exemplary embodiment, a method and system are provided for generating electricity by pyrolyzing organic material and delivering the pyrolysis fluid to a battery of fuel cells. The method and system may include a pyrolysis reactor having a pyrolysis input for receiving the organic material and a pyrolysis output for producing a pyrolysis fluid. The method and system may additionally include a fluid separator device having an input coupled to the pyrolysis output for receiving the pyrolysis fluid and for separating the pyrolysis fluid into multiple sub-mixtures, each of which may be provided via a separate one of the multiple separator outputs. The method and system may also include multiple fuel cell devices for generating electricity, each of which may include a fuel cell input and an electrical output coupled to a separate separator output, and the multiple fuel cell generators may use separate fuel cell technologies. The method and system may additionally include a controller controllably coupled to the pyrolysis reactor, the separator device, and the plurality of fuel cell devices, and may include an input for receiving at least one of a signal representative of a demand for electricity, a signal representative of a cost of operating at least one of the pyrolysis reactor and the fuel cell generator, and a signal representative of a minimum price for electricity. The controller may then determine the flow of plastic material into the pyrolysis input and the flow of hydrocarbon sub-mixtures into each fuel cell generator. The controller may determine that the flows are determined according to at least one of the signal representative of a demand for electricity, the signal representative of a cost of operating at least one of the pyrolysis reactor and the fuel cell generator, and the signal representative of a minimum price for electricity, respectively.

[0005] According to another exemplary embodiment, the sustained pyrolysis system also includes at least one electric element within the pyrolysis chamber, the electric element including at least one of a ferromagnetic and a ferrimagnetic material, and an electric heating device for heating the at least one inductive element within the pyrolysis chamber, the at least one inductive element including at least one of a ferromagnetic and a ferrimagnetic material, the inductive heating device including an electric power input, and the electric output of the at least one fuel cell can be electrically coupled to the electric power input of the inductive heating device.

[0006] According to yet another exemplary embodiment, the separator may additionally include at least one of an output for a light burning fluid adapted for an internal combustion engine and an output for a heavy burning fluid adapted for an external combustion engine, and at least one of an internal combustion generator coupled to the separator output for receiving fuel and including an electrical generator mechanically coupled to the internal combustion engine, and an external combustion generator coupled to the separator output for receiving fuel and including an electrical generator mechanically coupled to a steam boiler thermally coupled to the combustion chamber. A controller may additionally and controllably be coupled to at least one of the separator output for the light burning fluid, the separator output for the heavy burning fluid, the internal combustion generator, and the internal combustion generator.

[0007] According to yet another exemplary embodiment, the plurality of fuel cells includes at least one of a hydrogen fuel cell, an alkaline fuel cell, a molten carbonate fuel cell, a phosphoric acid fuel cell, a proton exchange membrane fuel cell, a solid oxide fuel cell, and a direct methanol fuel cell, each output of the plurality of separator outputs is coupled to at least one of the plurality of fuel cells, and a controller is additionally and controllably coupled to the separator outputs and to at least one of the individual fuel cells.

[0008] 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. Except to the extent necessary or inherent in the process itself, no particular order to each step or stage of the methods and processes described in this disclosure, including the drawings, is intended or implied. In many cases, the order of process steps can be varied without changing the purpose or effect of the described method. The present invention provides, for example, the following items. (Item 1) 1. A system for generating electricity, comprising: a pyrolysis reactor having a pyrolysis input and a pyrolysis output, the pyrolysis reactor configured to receive organic material into the pyrolysis input and to produce pyrolysis fluids at the pyrolysis output; a fluid separator device comprising a separator input and a plurality of separator outputs, the separator input coupled to the pyrolysis output and configured to receive the pyrolysis fluid and separate the pyrolysis fluid into a plurality of sub-mixtures of fluid, each sub-mixture being provided via a respective one of the plurality of separator outputs; a plurality of fuel cell devices, each having a fuel cell input coupled to a respective separator output and an electrical output, the plurality of fuel cell generators employing respective fuel cell technologies; a controller controllably coupled to the pyrolysis reactor, the separator device, and the plurality of fuel cell devices, a signal representing a demand for electricity; a signal representative of the cost of operating at least one of the pyrolysis reactor and the fuel cell generator; A signal indicating the minimum price of electricity a controller having an input for receiving at least one of Equipped with The controller determines a flow of plastic material into the pyrolysis input and a flow of a hydrocarbon sub-mixture into each fuel cell generator, the flows respectively being: said signal indicative of a demand for electrical power; the signal representing the cost of operating at least one of the pyrolysis reactor and the fuel cell generator; said signal representing the minimum price of electricity; The system is determined according to at least one of the following: (Item 2) at least one electrical element within the pyrolysis chamber, the electrical element comprising at least one of a ferromagnetic and a ferrimagnetic material; an electric heating device for heating at least one inductive element comprising at least one of a ferromagnetic and a ferrimagnetic material within the pyrolysis chamber, the inductive heating device having an electrical power input; Furthermore, Item 1 , wherein the electrical output of at least one fuel cell is electrically coupled to the power input of the inductive heating device. (Item 3) the separator further comprising at least one of an output for a light combustion fluid adapted for an internal combustion engine and an output for a heavy combustion fluid adapted for an external combustion engine; an internal combustion generator comprising an electrical generator mechanically coupled to an internal combustion engine coupled to an output of said separator for receiving fuel; an external combustion generator including an electrical generator mechanically coupled to a steam boiler thermally coupled to a combustion chamber coupled to an output of the separator for receiving fuel; and at least one of the separator output for a light combustion fluid, the separator output for an output for a heavy combustion fluid, the internal combustion generator, and the controller additionally and controllably coupled to at least one of the internal combustion generator. Item 1. The system of item 1, further comprising: (Item 4) The plurality of fuel cells Hydrogen fuel cells and an alkaline fuel cell; a molten carbonate fuel cell; a phosphoric acid fuel cell; a proton exchange membrane fuel cell; a solid oxide fuel cell; Direct methanol fuel cells and and each output of the plurality of separator outputs is coupled to at least one of the plurality of fuel cells; the controller is additionally and controllably coupled to at least one of the separator output and the individual fuel cells; Item 1. The system of item 1. (Item 5) 1. A method for generating electricity, comprising: pyrolyzing the organic material to form a pyrolysis fluid; separating the pyrolysis fluid into a plurality of sub-mixtures of fluid, each sub-mixture being provided via a respective separator output of a plurality of separator outputs; generating electricity by at least one of a plurality of fuel cell devices, each fuel cell device having a fuel cell input coupled to a respective separator output and an electrical output, the plurality of fuel cell generators employing respective fuel cell technologies; a controller controllably coupled to the pyrolysis reactor, the separator device, and the plurality of fuel cell devices, a signal representing a demand for electricity; a signal representative of the cost of operating at least one of the pyrolysis reactor and the fuel cell generator; A signal indicating the minimum price of electricity controlling the process of pyrolyzing, separating the pyrolysis fluids, and generating electricity using a controller having an input for receiving at least one of Including, The controller determines the flow of organic material into the pyrolysis input and the flow of hydrocarbon sub-mixtures into each fuel cell generator, the flows being respectively: said signal indicative of a demand for electrical power; the signal representing the cost of operating at least one of the pyrolysis reactor and the fuel cell generator; said signal representing the minimum price of electricity; The method is determined according to at least one of the following: (Item 6) providing at least one electrical element within the pyrolysis chamber, the electrical element comprising at least one of a ferromagnetic and a ferrimagnetic material; providing an electric heating device for heating at least one inductive element comprising at least one of a ferromagnetic and a ferrimagnetic material within the pyrolysis chamber, the inductive heating device having an electric power input, the electric output of at least one fuel cell being electrically coupled to the electric power input of the inductive heating device; controlling the heating of the pyrolysis using the controller; Item 1. The method for generating electricity according to item 1, further comprising: (Item 7) separating the pyrolysis fluid into at least one of a light combustion fluid adapted for an internal combustion engine and a heavy combustion fluid adapted for an external combustion engine; an internal combustion generator comprising an electrical generator mechanically coupled to an internal combustion engine coupled to an output of said separator for receiving fuel; an external combustion generator including an electrical generator mechanically coupled to a steam boiler thermally coupled to a combustion chamber coupled to an output of the separator for receiving fuel; and providing at least one of: Using the controller, the separator output for light combustion fluid; an output of the separator for a heavy combustion fluid; the internal combustion generator; the internal combustion generator; and controlling at least one of Item 1. The method for generating electricity according to item 1, further comprising: (Item 8) The plurality of fuel cells a hydrogen fuel cell; an alkaline fuel cell; a molten carbonate fuel cell; a phosphoric acid fuel cell; a proton exchange membrane fuel cell; a solid oxide fuel cell; Direct methanol fuel cells and and each output of the plurality of separator outputs is coupled to at least one of the plurality of fuel cells; Using the controller, the separator output; Individual fuel cells and Item 1. The method for generating electricity according to item 1, wherein at least one of the following is controlled. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] Various embodiments are described herein, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. Now, with specific reference to the drawings in detail, emphasis is placed on the fact that the particulars shown are presented by way of example only for purposes of illustrative discussion of preferred embodiments and to provide what is believed to be the most useful and readily 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 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.

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a simplified diagram of a generator system for generating electricity by pyrolysis of plastic materials and using fuel cells. [Figure 2] Figure 2A is a simplified diagram of an alkaline fuel cell, Figure 2B is a simplified diagram of a molten carbonate fuel cell, Figure 2C is a simplified diagram of a phosphoric acid fuel cell, Figure 2D is a simplified diagram of a direct methanol fuel cell, Figure 2E is a simplified diagram of a proton exchange membrane fuel cell, and Figure 2F is a simplified diagram of a solid oxide fuel cell. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a simplified cross-sectional diagram of a sustained pyrolysis system. [Figure 4A] FIG. 4A is a simplified cross-sectional diagram of an inductive sustained pyrolysis system. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B is a simplified vertical side view of an inductive sustained pyrolysis system. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a simplified cross-sectional diagram of a heating chamber, which may be an optional component of an inductive sustained pyrolysis system. [Figure 6A] FIG. 6A is a simplified longitudinal cross-sectional view of an inductive sustained pyrolysis system with a stationary body. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B is a simplified diagram of a transverse cross section of an inductive sustained pyrolysis system with a stationary body. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a simplified diagram of a transverse cross section of an inductive sustained pyrolysis system with a double stationary body and a spiral conveyor. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a simplified diagram of a transverse cross section of an inductive sustained pyrolysis system with a double stationary body and a propeller conveyor. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a simplified cross-sectional diagram of a vertically rotating, induction sustained pyrolysis system with a stationary agitator. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a simplified cross-sectional diagram of a vertical stationary induction sustained pyrolysis system with a vertically rotating agitator. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] 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.

[0012] 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.

[0013] Elements of the drawings labeled herein with numbers that are not illustrated within the drawings but are illustrated in earlier drawings have the same purpose and description as in the earlier drawings. Similarly, elements identified in the text by numbers that do not appear in the drawings illustrated by the text have the same purpose and description as in the earlier drawings in which they are illustrated.

[0014] The 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.

[0015] Reference is now made to Figure 1, which is a simplified diagram of a generator system 10 for generating electricity from plastic materials. As shown in Figure 1, generator system 10 may include a pyrolysis reactor 11, a separator subsystem 12, multiple fuel cell subsystems 13, and a controller 14. Generator system 10 may include an internal combustion generator 15 and / or an external combustion generator 16.

[0016] As shown in FIG. 1 , pyrolysis reactor 11 may include a feed container 17 with a buffer chamber 18 and a heating subsystem, such as a combustion heating container 19 and / or an electrical heating subsystem 20. Plastic material may be provided to pyrolysis reactor 11 via feed container 17 and via buffer chamber 18. Buffer chamber 18 may serve to block the inhalation of ambient oxygen. Combustion heating container 19 and / or electrical heating subsystem 20 may serve to heat the pyrolysis chamber of pyrolysis reactor 11. Pyrolysis reactor 11 may thus receive plastic material 21 into pyrolysis input 22 (e.g., using a conveyor, not shown) and produce pyrolysis fluids 23 at pyrolysis output 24. Further details regarding various configurations of pyrolysis reactor 11 are provided below.

[0017] It should be understood that the electric heating subsystem 20 can be any type of heating system that uses electricity. In particular, the electric heating subsystem 20 can use electrical induction. Thus, hereinafter, the terms "electrical heating subsystem 20" and "induction subsystem 20" can be used synonymously to refer to any type of electric heating, in particular heating via electric induction.

[0018] The pyrolysis reactor 11 is coupled to the separator subsystem 12 via an output pipe, which provides the pyrolysis fluid to the separator subsystem 12. The separator subsystem 12 separates the pyrolysis fluid into various types of output fluids or output mixtures (or sub-mixtures), such as output gases and output liquids. Such output fluids may include hydrogen, CO, CO2, and various hydrocarbons. The separator subsystem 12 may include multiple separator outputs 25, where different sub-mixtures may each be provided within a separate separator output 25 of the multiple separator outputs. The separator subsystem 12 may include a cooling subsystem and / or a reforming subsystem, as well as other separation techniques.

[0019] Except for some separator outputs 25, which may optionally be coupled to other types of generators, each separator output 25 of the separator subsystem 12 is coupled to one or more fuel cells 13. Each separator output 25, which provides a particular sub-mixture, may be coupled to one or more fuel cells 13 of the particular type for which the particular sub-mixture is adapted.

[0020] For example, such other types of generators may include internal combustion generator 15 and / or external combustion generator 16. Internal combustion generator 15 may include an electrical generator adapted for an internal combustion engine, coupled to an output of a separator for receiving a combustion fuel such as a light combustion fluid, mechanically coupled to the internal combustion engine. External combustion generator 16 may include an electrical generator adapted for an external combustion engine, coupled to an output of a separator for receiving a combustion fuel such as a heavy combustion fluid, thermally coupled to a combustion chamber, mechanically coupled to a steam boiler.

[0021] Each separator output 25 is coupled to one or more fuel cells 13 via a separate pipe 26, and thus each type of fuel cell 13 is coupled to a pipe carrying a particular sub-mixture adapted for the particular type of fuel cell 13. Each pipe 26 may include an optional container 27, and / or optional pumps and / or valves 28.

[0022] 1 shows only one pipe coupled to the input of each fuel cell 13, it should be understood that some fuel cell types have two or more inputs, where each input may receive a different material. Thus, a fuel cell 13 may be coupled to multiple pipes 26, where each such pipe 26 may be coupled to a different separator output 25, for example, via a manifold. Such a manifold may be disposed anywhere within the system of pipes 26, i.e., on either side of an individual container 27.

[0023] The containers 27 may act as buffers to match the production rates of the pyrolysis reactor 11 and separator subsystem 12 to the consumption rates of the individual fuel cells 13, as determined by the controller 14. The containers 27 may also act for heat exchange to match the temperatures of the individual fuel sub-mixtures to the requirements of the individual fuel cells 13. Temperature sensors (not shown) may be provided in the piping system, such as at the input of each container 27 and / or in the individual inputs of each fuel cell 13. The temperature sensors may be coupled to the controller 14 to enable the controller to control the individual temperatures of the individual fuel sub-mixtures to the requirements of the individual fuel cells 13.

[0024] 1 shows only pipes coupled to the input of fuel cell 13, it should be understood that the output of the fuel cell (not shown) may be coupled to pipes (not shown) that may optionally collect excess fluid from the output of fuel cell 13 and return such excess fluid to the piping system and separate container 27. Such excess fluid may be used for other types of fuel cell 13, for internal or external combustion generators, and / or for heating container 19. Water collected from the output of fuel cell 13 may be used by separator subsystem 12.

[0025] Fuel cell 13, and optional internal combustion generator 15 and / or external combustion generator 16, may be coupled via their respective electrode connectors to an electrical load sharing system 29, which may be coupled to one or more electrical consumers (electrical loads, not shown) via an electrical grid 30. Load sharing system 29 may include one or more DC to AC converters to convert the DC electrical output of the fuel cell into AC power.

[0026] The output of the generator system 10 may be used to power the generator system 10. For example, the electrical output of the load distribution system 29 may be electrically coupled (31) to the induction subsystem 20 to provide power for heating the pyrolysis reactor 11 using induction heating.

[0027] For example, a portion of the pyrolysis fluid may be used as combustion material by the heating container 19 to heat the pyrolysis reactor 11 using combustion heat (32). As shown in FIG. 1, the heating container 19 may have an input 33 for receiving combustible material, for example, from the separator subsystem 12, and an output 34. The oxygen-poor gaseous material from the output 34 may be provided to the buffer chamber 18, for example, to maintain a pressure above ambient pressure to prevent oxygen from entering the pyrolysis reactor 11. The CO2-rich gaseous material from the output 34 may be provided to the separator system 12, for example.

[0028] As shown in FIG. 1, the controller 14 may have any number of inputs and outputs, including one or more user interfaces that allow a user to set the operating parameters of the generator system 10.

[0029] The controller 14 may be controllably coupled to any or all of the feed container 17, the buffer chamber 18 and conveyor (e.g., via connector A), the pyrolysis reactor 11, the heating container 19 and / or induction subsystem 20 (e.g., via connector B), the separator subsystem 12 (e.g., via connector C), the fuel cell 13 (e.g., via connector D), the internal combustion generator 15 (e.g., via connector D), the external combustion generator 16 (e.g., via connector D), the load balancing system 29 (e.g., via connector E), and the pumps and / or valves 28 (e.g., via connector F).

[0030] Controller 14 may receive inputs from various sources, such as sensors (not shown in FIG. 1), such as the temperature sensor discussed above, the pressure sensor described below, etc., via connector G (35).

[0031] The controller 14 may receive input (35) in the form of electrical signals from another computing system or data source (not shown in FIG. 1). Such signals may be analog signals and / or digital signals, such as digital data. Such signals may represent various operating parameters, such as a signal representing a demand for electricity, a signal representing the cost of operating at least one of the pyrolysis reactor and the fuel cell generator, a signal representing a minimum price for electricity, etc. Such signals may be received, for example, via connectors I, J, and K.

[0032] The controller 14 may receive inputs from a user (35), for example, via a connector H, via a user interface, and via a user terminal (not shown in FIG. 1 ). The user interface may allow the user to set operating parameters and / or operating rules to enable the controller 14 to determine the operation of the generator system 10 in real time to adapt and / or optimize the operation of the generator system 10 according to the received signals.

[0033] For example, the user interface may allow a user to set operating parameters and / or operating rules to enable the controller 14 to determine various flows in real time, such as the flow of plastic material into the pyrolysis input and the flow of hydrocarbon sub-mixtures into each fuel cell generator, each of which may be determined by the controller 14 in real time according to a signal representing a demand for electricity, and / or a signal representing the cost of operating at least one of the pyrolysis reactors and fuel cell generators, and / or a signal representing a minimum price for electricity.

[0034] The content of the plastic material provided to the pyrolysis reactor 11 may change over time, changing the relative amounts of the types of plastic material. Accordingly, the content of the pyrolysis fluid produced by the pyrolysis reactor 11 may change over time, changing the relative amounts of the fluid material types and the output of the separator subsystem 12 in each of its outputs 25. Thus, the quantity and quality of the sub-mixtures provided to the various fuel cells may vary. Thus, the efficiency, and therefore the cost of producing electricity, may also change over time.

[0035] It should be understood that the term "pyrolysis fluid" refers to any type of gas or liquid produced by a pyrolysis system and may include the same material in either the gas or liquid phase, tailored to the materials and temperatures required, for example, by a particular fuel cell technology.

[0036] On the other hand, the demand for electricity and the price that consumers are respectively willing to pay for electricity provided over the network 30 may also change over time.

[0037] The controller 14 may therefore control the amount, and / or rate, and / or flow of inputs to the pyrolysis reactor 11 and the amount, and / or rate, and / or flow of the individual fluids provided to each of the fuel cells 13, for example, to produce electricity that is matched to power demand and / or at a cost that is matched to an affordable price.

[0038] Reference is now made to Figures 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 2E, and 2F, which are simplified diagrams of different types of fuel cells 13, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0039] As an option, the fuel cell type illustrations of Figures 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 2E, and 2F may be viewed in the context of the previous figures. However, it should be understood that the fuel cell type illustrations of Figures 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 2E, and 2F may be viewed in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the foregoing definitions may equally apply to the following description.

[0040] 2A is a simplified diagram of an alkaline fuel cell 36. The alkaline fuel cell has an input 37 for hydrogen on the anode 38 side and an input 39 for oxygen on the cathode 40 side. The oxygen may be provided as ambient air, and therefore there may be an output 41 on the cathode side to remove air minus spent oxygen (and / or excess O2). Output electricity is provided via electrodes 42, which may be connected to the load sharing system 29.

[0041] Hydrogen in the mixture of gases (e.g., the sub-mixture provided from the individual separator outputs 25 of the separator subsystem 12) may be provided to the alkaline fuel cell 36. An output 43 may be provided to the cathode side for water, and an output 44 may be provided for excess fluid, which may include other gases of the sub-mixture and excess hydrogen provided to the input 37. Such excess fluid and / or gas may be collected and returned to the piping system and individual containers 27.

[0042] The alkaline fuel cell 36 may use an alkaline electrolyte 45, such as potassium hydroxide in water, and has a typical operating temperature of about 70°C. A catalyst (not shown), employing a non-precious metal such as nickel, may be used to accelerate the chemical reactions at the anode and cathode. The efficiency of fuel-to-electricity conversion may reach 60%. Output power may reach over 100 kW. Several alkaline fuel cells of different configurations and / or power outputs may be used to produce electricity at maximum efficiency, tailored to demand, cost, and price considerations, as determined by the controller 14.

[0043] 2B is a simplified diagram of a molten carbonate fuel cell 46. The molten carbonate fuel cell has an input 37 for hydrogen (with or without CO) on the anode 38 side, an input 47 for CO2 on the cathode 40 side, and an input 39 for oxygen on the cathode 40 side. Oxygen may be provided as ambient air, and therefore there may be an output 41 on the cathode side to remove air minus spent oxygen (and / or excess O2). Output electricity is provided via electrodes 42, which may be connected to the load sharing system 29.

[0044] Hydrogen in a mixture of gases (e.g., a sub-mixture provided from an individual separator output 25 of separator subsystem 12) may be provided to molten carbonate fuel cell 46. Similarly, CO in a mixture of gases (e.g., a sub-mixture provided from an individual separator output 25 of separator subsystem 12) may be provided to molten carbonate fuel cell 46.

[0045] An output 44 may be provided on the anode 38 side for excess fluid, which may include other gases of the sub-mixture provided to input 37, and excess hydrogen. An output 41 may be provided on the cathode 40 side for removing air minus spent oxygen (and / or excess O2) and excess CO2. Such excess fluid and / or gas may be collected and returned to the piping system and separate container 27. An output 43 may be provided on the cathode side for water, which may be a product of a typical fuel cell chemical reaction.

[0046] Molten carbonate fuel cells 46 may use an electrolyte 48, such as molten carbonate salts suspended in a porous ceramic matrix. Such salts may include potassium hydroxide, lithium carbonate, potassium carbonate, sodium carbonate, in water. A typical operating temperature is about 650°C.

[0047] A catalyst (not shown), employing precious metals, may be used to accelerate the chemical reaction. Fuel-to-electricity conversion efficiency may reach 80%. Output power may reach over 100 kW. Several molten carbonate fuel cells of different configurations and / or power outputs may be used to produce electricity at maximum efficiency, tailored to demand, cost, and price considerations, as determined by controller 14.

[0048] 2C is a simplified diagram of a phosphoric acid fuel cell 49. The phosphoric acid fuel cell has an input 37 for hydrogen on the anode 38 side and an input 39 for oxygen on the cathode 40 side. The oxygen may be provided as ambient air, and therefore there may be an output 41 on the cathode side to remove air minus spent oxygen (and / or excess O2). A water output 43 is provided on the cathode side. Output electricity is provided via electrodes 42, which may be connected to the load sharing system 29.

[0049] Hydrogen in the mixture of gases (e.g., a sub-mixture provided from a separate separator output 25 of separator subsystem 12) may be provided to phosphoric acid fuel cell 49. Accordingly, output 44 may be provided to the anode 38 side for excess fluid, which may include other gases of the sub-mixture provided to input 37, and excess hydrogen. The excess fluid and / or gas from output 44 may be collected and returned to the piping system and separate container 27.

[0050] The phosphoric acid fuel cell 49 may use an electrolyte 50, such as phosphoric acid in a silicon carbide structure. A catalyst (not shown), employing, for example, platinum, may be used to accelerate the chemical reaction. The fuel-to-electricity conversion efficiency may reach 80%. The output power may reach over 100 kW. The phosphoric acid fuel cell 49 may be operated at a temperature of approximately 180°C and generate up to 400 kW of electricity, with a conversion efficiency reaching 80%.

[0051] Several phosphoric acid fuel cells of different configurations and / or power outputs can be used to produce electricity at maximum efficiency, tailored to demand, cost, and price considerations, as determined by controller 14.

[0052] 2D is a simplified diagram of a direct methanol fuel cell 51. The methanol fuel cell has an input 37 for methanol on the anode 38 side and an input 39 for oxygen on the cathode 40 side. The oxygen may be provided as ambient air, and therefore there may be an output 41 on the cathode side to remove air minus spent oxygen (and / or excess O2). A water output 43 is provided on the cathode side. Output electricity is provided via electrodes 42, which may be connected to the load sharing system 29.

[0053] Methanol (CHOH) in the mixture of gases (e.g., a sub-mixture provided from a separate separator output 25 of separator subsystem 12) is provided to methanol fuel cell 51. Accordingly, output 44 may be provided to the anode 38 side for excess fluid, which may include other gases of the sub-mixture and excess methanol provided to input 37. The excess fluid and / or gas from output 44 may be collected and returned to the piping system and separate container 27.

[0054] A methanol fuel cell 51 may use an electrolyte 52, such as a polymer membrane, and a catalyst (not shown), such as platinum-ruthenium, on the anode side. Output power can reach over 100 kW. A methanol fuel cell 51 may be operated at temperatures between about 60°C and 130°C and generate several kilowatts of electricity with relatively low conversion efficiency. Several methanol fuel cells 51 of different configurations and / or power outputs may be used to produce electricity at maximum efficiency, tailored to demand, cost, and price considerations, as determined by the controller 14.

[0055] 2E is a simplified diagram of a proton exchange membrane fuel cell 53. The proton exchange membrane fuel cell 53 has an input 37 for hydrogen on the anode 38 side and an input 39 for oxygen on the cathode 40 side. The oxygen may be provided as ambient air, and therefore there may be an output 41 on the cathode side to remove air minus spent oxygen (and / or excess O2). A water output 43 is provided on the cathode side. Output electricity is provided via electrodes 42, which may be connected to the load sharing system 29.

[0056] Hydrogen in the mixture of gases (e.g., a sub-mixture provided from a separate separator output 25 of separator subsystem 12) may be provided to proton exchange membrane fuel cell 53. Accordingly, output 44 may be provided to the anode 38 side for excess fluid, which may include other gases of the sub-mixture and excess hydrogen provided to input 37. The excess fluid and / or gas from output 44 may be collected and returned to the piping system and separate container 27.

[0057] The PEMFC 53 may use an acidic polymer membrane (water-based or mineral-based) as its electrolyte 54, along with platinum-based electrodes (not shown). The PEMFC 53 may be operated at temperatures up to 200° C. and generate up to 500 kW of electricity with a conversion efficiency of approximately 50%. Several PEMFCs 53 of different configurations and / or power outputs may be used to produce electricity at maximum efficiency, tailored to demand, cost, and price considerations, as determined by the controller 14.

[0058] 2F is a simplified diagram of a solid oxide fuel cell 55. The solid oxide fuel cell 55 has an input 37 for syngas on the anode 38 side and an input 39 for oxygen on the cathode 40 side. The oxygen may be provided as ambient air, and therefore there may be an output 41 on the cathode side to remove air minus spent oxygen (and / or excess O2). A water output 43 is provided on the cathode side. Output electricity is provided via electrode 42, which may be connected to the load sharing system 29. Syngas is typically a mixture consisting primarily of hydrogen, carbon monoxide (CO), very often some carbon dioxide (CO2), and possibly some hydrocarbons.

[0059] Syngas from a separate separator output 25 of separator subsystem 12 may be provided to solid oxide fuel cell 55. Accordingly, output 44 may be provided to the anode 38 side for excess fluid, which may include other gases of the sub-mixture and excess hydrogen provided to input 37. Excess fluid and / or gas from output 44 may be collected and returned to the piping system and separate container 27.

[0060] The solid oxide fuel cell 53 may use a solid ceramic electrolyte 56, such as zirconium oxide, stabilized with yttrium oxide. The solid oxide fuel cell 55 may be operated at temperatures between 800°C and 1,000°C and therefore may not require cooling of the pyrolysis fluid. The solid oxide fuel cell 55 may generate MW of electricity with a conversion efficiency of approximately 60%. Several solid oxide fuel cells 55 of different configurations and / or power outputs may be used to produce electricity at maximum efficiency, tailored to demand, cost, and price considerations, as determined by the controller 14.

[0061] The various types of fuel cells described above are provided as examples of different technologies that can use different types of input sub-mixtures provided by pyrolysis reactor 11 via separator subsystem 12. Other types of fuel cells and technologies are also contemplated.

[0062] Returning to FIG. 1 , it will be appreciated that the generator system 10 for generating electricity from plastic materials includes a pyrolysis reactor 11, a fluid separator 12, a plurality of fuel cell devices 13, and a controller 14 that controls the above-described elements in accordance with input signals such as a signal representing a demand for electricity, a signal representing the cost of operating at least one of the pyrolysis reactor and the fuel cell generator, and a signal representing a minimum price for electricity.

[0063] For example, the controller 14 may determine flows such as the flow of plastic material into the pyrolysis input and the flow of hydrocarbon sub-mixtures into each fuel cell generator.

[0064] For example, separator subsystem 12 may separate the pyrolysis fluid received from pyrolysis reactor 11 into submixtures, such as a hydrogen-containing submixture, a hydrogen and carbon monoxide-containing submixture (with or without carbon dioxide), a CO2-containing submixture, a methanol-containing submixture, a syngas-containing submixture, or the like. Each such submixture may be provided to one or more individual fuel cells. The amount of each such submixture provided to an individual fuel cell may be determined by controller 14 according to received signals and user-determined optimization rules.

[0065] For example, the controller 14 may determine the heating of the pyrolysis reactor 11 by controlling an inductive heating device 20, which may heat one or more inductive elements within the pyrolysis reactor 11. For example, the inductive elements may include ferromagnetic and ferrimagnetic materials. The inductive heating device 20 may include a power input that is connected to one or more fuel cell devices 13 (e.g., via a load sharing system 29). The controller 14 may determine the amount of electricity provided to the inductive heating device 20, for example, to control the temperature inside the pyrolysis reactor 11.

[0066] The separator subsystem 12 may include an output for a light combustion fluid adapted to an internal combustion engine. The internal combustion generator may include an electrical generator mechanically coupled to the internal combustion engine, coupled to the separator output for receiving fuel. The controller 11 may determine the flow of the light combustion fluid according to the signals described above.

[0067] The separator subsystem 12 may include an output for a heavy combustion fluid adapted for an external combustion engine. The external combustion generator may include an electrical generator coupled to the separator output for receiving fuel, thermally coupled to the combustion chamber, mechanically coupled to a steam boiler. The controller 11 may determine the flow of the heavy combustion fluid according to the signals described above.

[0068] The fuel cell devices 13 may include any number of fuel cell types, such as hydrogen fuel cells, alkaline fuel cells, molten carbonate fuel cells, phosphoric acid fuel cells, proton exchange membrane fuel cells, solid oxide fuel cells, and direct methanol fuel cells. The controller 11 may determine the flow of individual fuels or sub-mixtures into each of the fuel cells according to the fuel cell type. The controller 11 may also control the temperature of the flow of individual fuels or sub-mixtures into each of the fuel cells according to the fuel cell type.

[0069] Reference is now made to Figure 3, which is a simplified diagram of a cross section of a sustained pyrolysis system 57, according to one exemplary embodiment.

[0070] 3, the sustained pyrolysis system 57 may include a pyrolysis chamber 58, a heating chamber 59, and a feed chamber 60. The pyrolysis chamber 58 may typically include a first input opening 61 and a first output opening 62.

[0071] The heating chamber 59 may typically include a second input opening 63 and a second output opening 64. The feed chamber 60 may typically include a third feed opening 65 open to the ambient atmosphere and arranged to receive the ground and / or shredded material, a third pressure opening 66, and a third output opening 67 coupled to the first input opening 61 of the pyrolysis chamber 58. The ground and / or shredded material may typically be a plastic material such as polyethylene, polypropylene, or the like. These materials may be ground and / or shredded into pieces of substantially similar size to achieve further distribution of heat among the ground and / or shredded particles.

[0072] The sustained pyrolysis system 57 may additionally include a flame injector (e.g., a burner) 68 coupled to the second input opening 63 of the heating chamber 59. The flame injector device 68 is arranged to collect ambient air and pump or inject it into the heating chamber 59 through the second input opening 63. The flame injector device 68 is additionally arranged to inject a flammable material into the heating chamber 59 through the second input opening 63. For example, the flame injector device 68 may mix the flammable material with the ambient air, ignite the flammable material in a combustion flame, and inject the combustible (combustible) material 69 into the heating chamber 59 through the second input opening 63. In particular, the flame injector device 68 may control the amount of each of the flammable material along with the ambient air and / or control the mixing ratio of the flammable material to the ambient air.

[0073] The sustained pyrolysis system 57 may additionally include a pumping device 70, which may typically include an input opening 71 coupled to the second output opening 64 of the heating chamber through a pipe 72, and an output opening 73, which may typically be coupled to the third pressure opening 66 of the feed chamber through a pipe 74.

[0074] The sustained pyrolysis system 57 may additionally include an oxygen (O2) sensor 75, which may be disposed within the heating chamber 59 or at the output of the heating chamber 59, as shown in Figure 3. The O2 sensor 75 may provide a measurement of the O2 content and / or concentration within the heating chamber 59, particularly at the input to the pumping device 70. It should be understood that the O2 sensor 75 may be replaced by a CO2 sensor or similar sensor.

[0075] The sustained pyrolysis system 57 may additionally include a pressure transducer 76, which may be disposed within the feed chamber 60. As shown in FIG. 3 , the third output opening 67 of the feed chamber 60 may be coupled to the first input opening 61 of the pyrolysis chamber 58 through a pipe 77 that includes a conveyor device 78, and the pressure transducer 76 may be disposed inside the pipe 77. The conveyor device 78 may be used to transport the comminuted material from the feed chamber 60 to the pyrolysis chamber 58 through the pipe 77. The pressure transducer 76 may provide a measurement of the gas pressure within the feed chamber 60 and / or the pipe 77.

[0076] The sustained pyrolysis system 57 may additionally include a temperature sensor 79, which may be disposed within the pyrolysis chamber 58 and / or at the output of the pyrolysis chamber 58. The temperature sensor 79 may provide a temperature measurement of the gaseous material within the pyrolysis chamber 58.

[0077] The sustained pyrolysis system 57 may additionally include a controller 80. The controller 80 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.

[0078] Controller 80 may be electrically coupled and / or controllably electrically coupled to flame injector 68 via connection element A, and to pumping device 70 via connection element B, and / or to O2 sensor 75 via connection element C, and / or to pressure transducer 76 via connection element D, and / or to temperature sensor 79 via connection element E.

[0079] The controller 80 may be configured to control the flame injector device 68 to inject ambient air and / or combustible material into the heating chamber 59, for example, according to measurements received from the temperature sensor 79, to maintain a predetermined temperature and / or temperature range.

[0080] The controller 80 may additionally be configured to control, for example, the flame injector device 68 for injecting ambient air and / or combustible material into the heating chamber 59 to maintain a predetermined concentration of O2 within the heating chamber 59. For example, the controller 80 may control the concentration of O2 according to measurements received from the O2 sensor 75. For example, the controller 80 may control the concentration of O2 to between 8% and 12%.

[0081] Controller 80 may additionally be configured to control pumping device 70, for example, to maintain pressure within feed chamber 60 or pipe 77. For example, controller 80 may control the pressure within feed chamber 60 according to measurements received by pressure sensor 76. For example, controller 80 may control the pressure to a value above the pressure of the ambient atmosphere to prevent ambient air from entering feed chamber 60, and / or pipe 77, and / or pyrolysis chamber 58.

[0082] It will be appreciated that a steering device, such as an electric motor (not shown), may be coupled to the pyrolysis chamber 58 to rotate the pyrolysis chamber 58 so that the pulverized material 81 entering the pyrolysis chamber 58 through the pipe 77 may be dispersed throughout the pyrolysis chamber 58. It will be appreciated that the pyrolysis chamber 58 may rotate within the heating chamber 59 and / or around the input pipe 77 and the output pipe 82. It will be appreciated that the pyrolysis chamber 58 may have a cylindrical shape, and the cylindrical side surface (envelope) may be made from a thermally conductive material.

[0083] The pyrolysis chamber 58 may be coupled to a check valve device 83 via an output pipe 82 to allow a continuous flow of gaseous material out of the pyrolysis chamber 58 and to prevent the flow of ambient air into the pyrolysis chamber 58 through the output opening.

[0084] 3, the pyrolysis chamber 58 may be located within a heating chamber 59. The heating chamber 59 may include a rotary input opening 61 and a rotary output opening 62. An input pipe 77 disposed within the rotary input opening may be connected between the output opening of the feed chamber 60 and the input opening of the pyrolysis chamber 58. An output pipe 82 disposed within the rotary output opening may be connected between the output opening of the pyrolysis chamber 58 and a check valve device 83. Thus, the pyrolysis chamber may rotate within the heating chamber 59.

[0085] The pyrolysis chamber 58 may rotate about a transverse axis 84 and / or about the rotary input and output openings described above. The pyrolysis chamber 58 may rotate to distribute (and redistribute) the comminuted material 81 throughout the pyrolysis chamber 58 and to distribute heat throughout the comminuted material 81 within the pyrolysis chamber 58.

[0086] Reference is now made to Figure 4A, which is a simplified cross-sectional view of an inductively sustained pyrolysis system 85 according to one exemplary embodiment, and to Figure 4B, which is a simplified cross-sectional view of a vertical (horizontal) side of an inductively sustained pyrolysis system 85.

[0087] 4A and 4B may be viewed in the context of the previous figures. However, it should be understood that the illustrations of Figures 4A and 4B may be viewed in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the foregoing definitions may equally apply to the following description.

[0088] As shown in FIG. 4A, the inductive sustained pyrolysis system 85 may include a pyrolysis chamber 86 including a thermally insulating wall 87, an input opening 88 and an output opening 89 in the wall 87, and an inductive heat element 90.

[0089] As described above, the term "inductive continuous pyrolysis system 85" and elsewhere herein can refer to any type of electrically heated continuous pyrolysis system.

[0090] 4B, the inductive sustained pyrolysis system 85 may have a cylindrical shape and may rotate along its axis, for example, around openings 88 and 89, as shown by arrow 91. The pyrolysis system 85 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.

[0091] The inductive heating elements 90 may be dispersed throughout the pyrolysis chamber 86 or within a limited area of ​​the pyrolysis chamber 86. The inductive heating elements 90 may be fixed, such as attached to a wall 87 of the pyrolysis chamber 86. Alternatively, the inductive heating elements 90 may be free-moving within the pyrolysis chamber 86, such as small rods or beads. A temperature sensor 92 may be disposed inside the pyrolysis chamber 86.

[0092] The inductive sustained pyrolysis system 85 may additionally include an induction radiator 93, which may be disposed outside the pyrolysis chamber 86, near a wall 87 of the pyrolysis chamber 86. The induction radiator 93 may be attached to the wall 87 of the pyrolysis chamber 86. The induction radiator 93 may be radiatively coupled to the inductive heat element 90 using electromagnetic radiation. The induction radiator 93 may include a power supply 94, or may be electrically coupled thereto, to deliver electrical current to the induction radiator 93.

[0093] The inductive sustained pyrolysis system 85 may additionally include a separator 95 coupled to the opening 89. The separator 89 separates the output produced by the pyrolysis chamber 86 into gaseous material (via opening 96), liquid material (via opening 97), and solid or ash material (via opening 98), and may also function as a check valve to prevent ambient air from entering the pyrolysis chamber 86 through the opening 89. As shown in FIG. 4A, the separator 95 is arranged as a back-siphon trap, however, other arrangements are envisioned.

[0094] Alternatively, as shown in Figure 4B, the induction radiator 93 may be installed near the wall 87 of the pyrolysis chamber 86 without touching the wall 87 so that the pyrolysis chamber 86 can rotate relative to the induction radiator 93. The induction radiator 93 may be installed directly below the pyrolysis chamber 86. Alternatively, as shown in Figure 4B, the induction radiator 93 may be installed at an angle that rotates ahead of the bottom of the pyrolysis chamber 86 so that the heating of the induction heat element 90 reaches its maximum value when the individual induction heat element 90 reaches its lowest point in the pyrolysis chamber 86.

[0095] 4A, the inductive sustained pyrolysis system 85 may additionally include a feed chamber 99 including an input opening 100 for receiving the pulverized material and an input opening 101 for providing the pulverized material to the input opening 88 of the pyrolysis chamber 86. The pulverized material may typically be a plastic material such as polyethylene, polypropylene, or the like. The input opening 101 of the feed chamber 99 and the input opening 88 of the pyrolysis chamber 86 may be connected by a tube 102.

[0096] The inductively sustained pyrolysis system 85 may additionally include a nitrogen source 103, such as a nitrogen generator, such as a membrane nitrogen generator or a pressure swing adsorption (PSA) nitrogen generator. The nitrogen source 103 may be coupled to the feed chamber 99 or to the tubing 102, for example, via a pipe 104. A pump 105 coupled to an input opening of the nitrogen source 103 may pump air into the nitrogen source 103. Alternatively, or in addition, a pump 106 may be coupled to the pipe 104 to pump nitrogen into the feed chamber 99 or the tubing 102.

[0097] A nitrogen source 103 and pump 105 pump nitrogen into the feed chamber 99 or tube 102 to maintain a pressure above ambient pressure to prevent ambient air from entering the pyrolysis chamber 86. The gas pressure in the feed chamber 99 or tube 102 can be measured using a pressure sensor 107 disposed in the feed chamber 99 or tube 102.

[0098] The inductive sustained pyrolysis system 85 may additionally include a controller 108. The controller 108 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 enables the processor to communicate input and / or output data and / or control at least one sensor device, drive device, motor, pump, etc.

[0099] The controller 108 may be electrically coupled and / or controllably electrically coupled to the pumping devices 105 and 106 via connection element A, and / or to the pressure transducer 107 via connection element B, and / or to the temperature sensor 92 via connection element C.

[0100] Additionally, controller 108 may be electrically and / or controllably electrically coupled to induction radiator 93 via connection element D, for example, by controlling power supply 94. Controller 108 may be electrically and / or controllably electrically coupled to conveyor 109, which conveys ground material from feed chamber 99 into pyrolysis chamber 86, via connection element E, for example, by controlling motor 110. Controller 108 may be electrically and / or controllably electrically coupled to motor 111, which rotates pyrolysis chamber 86, via connection element F.

[0101] The controller 108 may be configured to control the induction radiator 93, and / or the conveyor 109, and / or the motor 111, for example, according to measurements received from the temperature sensor 92, to maintain a predetermined temperature and / or temperature range.

[0102] To produce a sustained, stable, and controllable power output, the generator system 10 may use multiple batch reactors or a single sustained pyrolysis reactor, such as the sustained pyrolysis reactor described below.

[0103] Reference is now made to FIG. 5, which is a simplified cross-sectional diagram of a heating chamber 112, which may be an optional component of an inductive sustained pyrolysis system 85, according to one exemplary embodiment.

[0104] As an option, the illustration of Figure 5 may be viewed in the context of the previous figures. However, it should be understood that the illustration of Figure 5 may be viewed in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the foregoing definitions may equally apply to the following description.

[0105] Heating chamber 112 of Figure 5 may replace nitrogen source 103 of Figure 4A. Heating chamber 112 of Figure 5 operates similarly to heating chamber 59 of Figure 3, but is used only to provide a low oxygen gas content to delivery chamber 99 or pipe 102.

[0106] The heating chamber 112 of FIG. 5 may include a flame thruster 113, an O sensor 114, and a source of flammable material 115. The flame thruster 113 may control the amount and mixture of ambient air and flammable material, inject the ambient air and flammable material into the heating chamber 112, ignite a flame, and produce a gaseous material having a low level of O. The controller 108 may then be configured to receive O measurements from the O sensor 114 (e.g., via connector G) and control the flame thruster 113 (e.g., via connector H) accordingly to produce a gaseous material having an O concentration of 6% to 12%. It should be understood that the O sensor may be replaced by a CO sensor or similar sensor.

[0107] Reference is now made to Figure 6A, which is a simplified diagram of a longitudinal cross section of an inductively sustained pyrolysis system 116 with a stationary pyrolysis chamber 117, according to one exemplary embodiment, and reference is made to Figure 6B, which is a simplified diagram of a transverse cross section of an inductively sustained pyrolysis system 116 with a stationary pyrolysis chamber 117.

[0108] 6A and 6B may be viewed in the context of the previous figures. However, it should be understood that the illustrations of Figures 6A and 6B may be viewed in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the foregoing definitions may equally apply to the following description.

[0109] As shown in Figures 6A and 6B, the inductive sustained pyrolysis system 116 may include an air pump 105 coupled to an input opening of a nitrogen source 103 (such as nitrogen source 103 in Figure 4A), and the output may be coupled to a stationary pyrolysis chamber 117 through a pipe 104 and the pump 105 that pumps nitrogen into the stationary pyrolysis chamber 117.

[0110] The stationary pyrolysis chamber 117 may include a gas output 118 and a liquid and ash output 119, as well as a feed chamber 99 with an opening 100 for feeding the comminuted material into the stationary pyrolysis chamber 117. The gas output 118 may be coupled to a check valve device, such as check valve device 83 of FIG. 3, or separator 95 of FIG. 4B, or any similar device.

[0111] The stationary pyrolysis chamber 117 may include an inner layer 120 of solid non-ferrous material, an outer layer 121 of insulating material, and an inductor (inductive radiator) 122 embedded in the outer layer. The inductor 122 may include or be electrically connected to a power supply 94 for delivering electrical current to the inductor 122.

[0112] The stationary pyrolysis chamber 117 may include a conveyor or agitator, such as a worm, or spiral conveyor 123, to distribute the crushed or chopped material, which may enter via the feed chamber 99, throughout the stationary pyrolysis chamber 117. The conveyor or agitator 123 may be made from a ferrous material or similar material that can absorb the radiation emitted by the inductor 122. Thus, the conveyor or agitator 123 may also produce heat and distribute the heat among the crushed or chopped material that is distributed within the stationary pyrolysis chamber 117.

[0113] Pyrolysis chamber 117 is stationary in the sense that it does not rotate, like pyrolysis chamber 58 of Figure 3 and / or pyrolysis chamber 86 of Figures 4A and 4B. Instead, a conveyor or agitator 123 rotates to distribute heat as well as ground or shredded material within pyrolysis chamber 117. Stationary pyrolysis chamber 117, motor 124, and shaft 125 rotate conveyor or agitator 123.

[0114] 6A, the inductively sustained pyrolysis system 116 may include a computing device (controller) 108 similar to the controller 108 of the inductively sustained pyrolysis system 85 of FIG. 4A, with similar functionality and connections to components of the inductively sustained pyrolysis system 116, such as sensors, pumps, and motors, to control the pumps 105 and 106, motor 124, and inductor 122, for example, by controlling the current supplied to the power supply 94 and / or inductor 122, for example, to sense temperature, pressure, oxygen concentration, etc.

[0115] Reference is now made to FIG. 7, which is a simplified diagram of a transverse cross section of an inductive sustained pyrolysis system 126 with dual stationary pyrolysis chambers 127 and two spiral conveyors 128, according to one exemplary embodiment.

[0116] Optionally, the illustration of Figure 7 may be viewed in the context of the previous figures. However, it should be understood that the illustration of Figure 7 may be viewed in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the foregoing definitions may equally apply to the following description.

[0117] It should be understood that a pyrolysis chamber, such as the stationary pyrolysis chamber 117, can include any number of conveyors, or agitators, such as worms, or spiral conveyors 128. Figure 7 shows such a dual pyrolysis chamber 127 with two spiral conveyors 128. Except for the inclusion of the two spiral conveyors 128, the dual pyrolysis chamber 127 can have a structure similar to the pyrolysis chamber 117. Except for the dual pyrolysis chamber 127, the sustained pyrolysis system 126 can have a structure and components similar to the inductive sustained pyrolysis system 116.

[0118] Reference is now made to FIG. 8, which is a simplified diagram of a transverse cross section of an inductive sustained pyrolysis system 129 with dual pyrolysis chambers 130 and two propeller conveyors 131, according to one exemplary embodiment.

[0119] As an option, the illustration of Figure 8 may be viewed in the context of the previous figures. However, it should be understood that the illustration of Figure 8 may be viewed in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the foregoing definitions may equally apply to the following description.

[0120] As shown in Figure 8, the induction sustained pyrolysis system 129 is similar to the induction sustained pyrolysis system 126 of Figure 7, however, it includes two propeller conveyors 131 instead of the spiral conveyor 128 of the induction sustained pyrolysis system 126. The propeller conveyors 131 may each include a plurality of "wings" 132 distributed along the axis 133 of each propeller conveyor 131, which, when rotated, may prevent the wings 132 of the first propeller conveyor 131 from colliding with the wings 132 of the second propeller conveyor 131.

[0121] Reference is now made to FIG. 9, which is a simplified cross-sectional diagram of a vertically rotating pyrolysis chamber 134 with a stationary agitator 135 of an inductive sustained pyrolysis system 136, according to one exemplary embodiment.

[0122] Optionally, the illustration of Figure 9 may be viewed in the context of the previous figures. However, it should be understood that the illustration of Figure 9 may be viewed in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the foregoing definitions may equally apply to the following description.

[0123] As shown in FIG. 9, the inductively sustained pyrolysis system 136 is similar to the inductively sustained pyrolysis system 85 in FIG. 4A, however, the pyrolysis chamber 134 rotates about a vertical axis, and therefore the input and output of the pyrolysis chamber 134 are arranged accordingly.

[0124] It should be understood that the nitrogen source 103 of the inductively sustained pyrolysis system 136 (as shown in FIG. 9) may be replaced by the heating chamber 112 of FIG. 5, or any other source of low-oxygen air or similar gaseous material.

[0125] Reference is now made to FIG. 10, which is a simplified cross-sectional diagram of a vertical stationary induction sustained pyrolysis system 137 with a vertically rotating agitator 138, according to one exemplary embodiment.

[0126] As an option, the illustration of Figure 10 may be viewed in the context of the previous figures. However, it should be understood that the illustration of Figure 10 may be viewed in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the foregoing definitions may equally apply to the following description.

[0127] As shown in FIG. 10, the induction sustained pyrolysis system 137 is similar to the induction sustained pyrolysis system 136 of FIG. 9, however, it has a vertically rotating agitator 138 .

[0128] It should be understood that the nitrogen source 103 of the inductively sustained pyrolysis system 137 (as shown in FIG. 10) may be replaced by the heating chamber 112 of FIG. 5, or any other source of low-oxygen air or similar gaseous material.

[0129] 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.

[0130] While a 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. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims. All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned herein are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety 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. 1. A system for generating electricity, said system comprising: a pyrolysis reactor comprising a pyrolysis input and a pyrolysis output, the pyrolysis reactor configured to receive organic material into the pyrolysis input and to produce pyrolysis fluids at the pyrolysis output; a fluid separator device comprising a separator input and a plurality of separator outputs, the separator input coupled to the pyrolysis output, the separator input configured to receive the pyrolysis fluid and separate the pyrolysis fluid into a plurality of sub-mixtures of fluid, each sub-mixture being provided via a respective one of the plurality of separator outputs, each sub-mixture being adapted for a respective type of fuel cell technology; a plurality of fuel cell devices, each fuel cell device having a fuel cell input coupled to a respective separator output and an electrical output, the plurality of fuel cell devices employing a plurality of fuel cell technologies; a controller controllably coupled to the pyrolysis reactor, the fluid separator device, and the plurality of fuel cell devices; Equipped with The controller a signal representing data on demand for electricity in an electrical grid; a signal representing cost data for operating at least one of the pyrolysis reactor and the fuel cell device; a signal representing data on the minimum price of electricity in said power grid; an input for receiving at least one of: the controller determines a flow rate of plastic material into the pyrolysis input and a flow rate of a hydrocarbon sub-mixture into each fuel cell device; Each of the flow rates is the signal representing data on demand for electricity in the electrical grid; the signal representing cost of operating data for at least one of the pyrolysis reactor and the fuel cell device; said signal representing data on the lowest price of electricity in said power grid; The system is determined according to at least one of:

2. The system comprises: at least one inductive element within the pyrolysis reactor, the inductive element comprising at least one of a ferromagnetic and a ferrimagnetic material; an inductive heating device for heating the at least one inductive element comprising at least one of a ferromagnetic and a ferrimagnetic material within the pyrolysis reactor, the inductive heating device having an electrical power input; Furthermore, The system of claim 1 , wherein the electrical output of at least one fuel cell is electrically coupled to the power input of the inductive heating device.

3. The fluid separator device further comprises at least one of an output for a light combustion fluid adapted for an internal combustion engine and an output for a heavy combustion fluid adapted for an external combustion engine; The system comprises: an internal combustion generator comprising an electrical generator mechanically coupled to an internal combustion engine coupled to an output of the fluid separator device for receiving fuel; an external combustion generator comprising an electrical generator mechanically coupled to an external combustion engine coupled to an output of the fluid separator device for receiving fuel, the external combustion engine being a steam boiler thermally coupled to a combustion chamber; and 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the controller is additionally and controllably coupled to at least one of the output of the fluid separator device for light combustion fluids and the output of the fluid separator device for heavy combustion fluids and the internal combustion generator and the external combustion generator.

4. the plurality of fuel cell devices; Hydrogen fuel cells and an alkaline fuel cell; a molten carbonate fuel cell; a phosphoric acid fuel cell; a proton exchange membrane fuel cell; a solid oxide fuel cell; Direct methanol fuel cells and and each output of the plurality of separator outputs is coupled to at least one of the plurality of fuel cell devices; The system of claim 1 , wherein the controller is additionally and controllably coupled to at least one of the plurality of separator outputs and respective fuel cell devices.

5. 1. A method for generating electricity, said method comprising: a pyrolysis reactor pyrolyzing the organic material to form a pyrolysis fluid; a separator device separating the pyrolysis fluid into a plurality of sub-mixtures of fluid, each sub-mixture being provided via a respective separator output of a plurality of separator outputs, each of the plurality of sub-mixtures being adapted for a respective type of fuel cell technology; at least one of a plurality of fuel cell devices generating electricity, each fuel cell device having a fuel cell input coupled to a respective separator output and an electrical output, each of the plurality of fuel cell devices using a plurality of fuel cell technologies; controlling the pyrolysis, the separation of the pyrolysis fluids, and the generation of electricity using a controller, the controller controllably coupled to the pyrolysis reactor, the separator device, and the plurality of fuel cell devices; Including, The controller a signal representing data on demand for electricity in an electrical grid; a signal representing cost data for operating at least one of the pyrolysis reactor and the fuel cell device; a signal representing data on the minimum price of electricity in said power grid; an input for receiving at least one of: the controller determines a flow rate of organic material into the input of the pyrolysis reactor and a flow rate of a hydrocarbon sub-mixture into each fuel cell device; Each of the flow rates is the signal representing data on demand for electricity in the electrical grid; the signal representing cost of operating data for at least one of the pyrolysis reactor and the fuel cell device; said signal representing data on the lowest price of electricity in said power grid; The method is determined according to at least one of the following:

6. The method comprises: providing at least one inductive element within the pyrolysis reactor, the inductive element comprising at least one of a ferromagnetic and a ferrimagnetic material; providing an inductive heating device within the pyrolysis reactor for heating the at least one inductive element comprising at least one of a ferromagnetic and a ferrimagnetic material, the inductive heating device having an electrical power input, the electrical output of at least one fuel cell being electrically coupled to the electrical power input of the inductive heating device; controlling the heating of the pyrolyzing using the controller; 6. The method of generating electricity of claim 5, further comprising:

7. The method comprises: separating the pyrolysis fluid into at least one of a light combustion fluid adapted for an internal combustion engine and a heavy combustion fluid adapted for an external combustion engine; an internal combustion generator comprising an electrical generator mechanically coupled to an internal combustion engine coupled to an output of said separator device for receiving fuel; an external combustion generator comprising an electrical generator mechanically coupled to an external combustion engine coupled to an output of the separator device for receiving fuel, the external combustion engine being a steam boiler thermally coupled to a combustion chamber; providing at least one of: Using the controller, an output of the separator device for a light combustion fluid; and an output of the separator device for heavy combustion fluid; and the internal combustion generator; the external combustion generator; and controlling at least one of 6. The method of generating electricity of claim 5, further comprising:

8. the plurality of fuel cell devices; a hydrogen fuel cell; an alkaline fuel cell; a molten carbonate fuel cell; a phosphoric acid fuel cell; a proton exchange membrane fuel cell; a solid oxide fuel cell; Direct methanol fuel cells and and each output of the plurality of separator outputs is coupled to at least one of the plurality of fuel cell devices; Using the controller, the plurality of separator outputs; Each fuel cell device and 6. The method of claim 5, further comprising controlling at least one of:

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