PLASMA WHIRL REACTOR APPARATUS AND METHODS OF USE

摘要

An apparatus for synergistically combining a plasma with a comminution means such as a fluid kinetic energy mill (jet mill), preferably in a single reactor and/or in a single process step is provided by the present invention. Within the apparatus of the invention potential energy is converted into kinetic energy and subsequently into angular momentum by means of wave energy, for comminuting, reacting and separation of feed materials. Methods of use of the apparatus in the practice of various processes are also provided by the present invention.

主权项

1. A method for producing a clinker for cement from a material comprising:
providing a vessel having an interior defined by a cylindrical portion disposed proximate to a first end and a cone shaped portion disposed proximate to said cylindrical portion that forms a first outlet at a second end that is aligned with a longitudinal axis of said cylindrical portion and said cone shaped portion, one or more inlets in said first end, a second outlet at said first end that is aligned with said longitudinal axis of said cylindrical portion, and two or more jets or slits mounted tangentially within said cylindrical portion; introducing a plasma into said interior using a first plasma source comprising a plasma torch connected to said first end and aligned with said longitudinal axis of said cylindrical portion and said cone shaped portion; adding energy to said plasma using a second plasma source comprising a set of radio frequency coils disposed around or within said cylindrical portion; creating angular momentum in said plasma to form a plasma vortex by directing a fluid or a gas into said interior using said two or more jets or slits, wherein said plasma vortex circulates around said longitudinal axis; and producing said clinker for cement by directing said material into said plasma vortex via said one or more inlets such that said plasma vortex reacts with said material and said clinker for cement exits through said first outlet in said second end.