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Title: Method for forming synthesis gas using a plasma-catalyzed fuel reformer

Patent ·
OSTI ID:1178743

A method of forming a synthesis gas utilizing a reformer is disclosed. The method utilizes a reformer that includes a plasma zone to receive a pre-heated mixture of reactants and ionize the reactants by applying an electrical potential thereto. A first thermally conductive surface surrounds the plasma zone and is configured to transfer heat from an external heat source into the plasma zone. The reformer further includes a reaction zone to chemically transform the ionized reactants into synthesis gas comprising hydrogen and carbon monoxide. A second thermally conductive surface surrounds the reaction zone and is configured to transfer heat from the external heat source into the reaction zone. The first thermally conductive surface and second thermally conductive surface are both directly exposed to the external heat source. A corresponding apparatus and system are also disclosed herein.

Research Organization:
Ceramatec, Inc., West Valley City, UT (United States
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE
DOE Contract Number:
FG02-07ER84663
Assignee:
Ceramatec, Inc. (Salt Lake City, UT)
Patent Number(s):
9,017,437
Application Number:
13/710,731
OSTI ID:
1178743
Resource Relation:
Patent File Date: 2012 Dec 11
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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