Heavy fossil hydrocarbon conversion and upgrading using radio-frequency or microwave energy

US11268036B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Battelle Memorial Institute · CH

Inventors

• James J. Strohm · Washington, US
• Benjamin Q. Roberts · Seven Fields, US
• Tricia D. Smurthwaite · Pasco, US
• Theresa M. Bergsman · Richland, US
• Mark D. Bearden · Kennewick, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jan 2, 2018
• Grant date: Mar 8, 2022
• Expiry date: Jan 2, 2038

Classification

• Technology area (CPC H): Electricity
• CPC primary: H05H1/4622
• WIPO field: Chemical engineering
• WIPO sector: Chemistry

Abstract

Conversion of heavy fossil hydrocarbons (HFH) to a variety of value-added chemicals and/or fuels can be enhanced using microwave (MW) and/or radio-frequency (RE) energy. Variations of reactants, process parameters, and reactor design can significantly influence the relative distribution of chemicals and fuels generated as the product. In one example, a system for flash microwave conversion of HFH includes a source concentrating microwave or RF energy in a reaction zone having a pressure greater than 0.9 atm, a continuous feed having HFH and a process gas passing through the reaction zone, a HFH-to-liquids catalyst contacting the HFH in at least the reaction zone, and dielectric discharges within the reaction zone. The HFH and the catalyst have a residence time in the reaction zone of less than 30 seconds. In some instances, a plasma can form in or near the reaction zone.