Method for cracking hydrocarbon compositions using a submerged reactive plasma system
A method is described for cracking a liquid hydrocarbon composition (e.g. crude oil) to produce a cracked hydrocarbon product. A liquid hydrocarbon composition is initially provided. An electrical arc is generated directly within the hydrocarbon composition so that the arc is entirely submerged in the composition. Arc generation is preferably accomplished using a primary and secondary electrode each having a first end submerged in the composition. The first ends of the electrodes are separated from each other to form a gap there between. An electrical potential is then applied to the electrodes to generate the arc within the gap. A reactive gas is thereafter delivered to the arc which forms a bubble around the arc. Gas delivery may be accomplished by providing a passageway through each electrode and delivering the gas through the passageways. The arc and gas cooperate to produce a plasma which efficiently cracks the hydrocarbon composition. 6 figs.
- Research Organization:
- EG & G Idaho Inc; Lockheed Idaho Technologies Company
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE
- DOE Contract Number:
- AC07-94ID13223; AC07-76ID01570
- Assignee:
- Lockheed Idaho Technologies Co., Idaho Falls, ID (United States)
- Patent Number(s):
- US 5,626,726/A/
- Application Number:
- PAN: 8-534,602
- OSTI ID:
- 504931
- Resource Relation:
- Other Information: PBD: 6 May 1997
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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