METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONVERTING HYDROCARBON FUEL INTO HYDROGEN GAS AND CARBON DIOXIDE

摘要

The apparatus includes a first vessel having a partial oxidation reaction zone and a separate steam reforming reaction zone. The first vessel has a first vessel inlet at the partial oxidation reaction zone and a first vessel outlet at the steam reforming zone. The reformer also includes a helical tube extending about the first vessel. Oxygen gas from an oxygen-containing source can be directed through the helical tube to the first vessel. A second vessel having a second vessel inlet and second vessel outlet is annularly disposed about the first vessel. The helical tube is disposed between the first vessel and the second vessel. The apparatus can use a variety of hydrocarbon fuels, such as gasoline, JP- 8, methanol and ethanol. The partial oxidation reaction zone allows the fuel to partially burn while not forming soot and while providing heat to the steam reforming zone and the other portions of the reactor annularly disposed around the partial oxidation zone. Further, the apparatus is sufficiently compact for use in an automobile.