CARBON DIOXIDE CONVERSION TO HYDROCARBON FUEL VIA SYNGAS PRODUCTION CELL HARNESSED FROM SOLAR RADIATION

A process for converting carbon dioxide to hydrocarbon fuels using solar energy harnessed with a solar thermal power system to create thermal energy and electricity, using the thermal energy to heat a fuel feed stream, the heated fuel feed stream comprising carbon dioxide and water, the carbon dioxide captured from a flue gas stream, converting the carbon dioxide and water in a syngas production cell, the syngas production cell comprising a solid oxide electrolyte, to create carbon monoxide and hydrogen, and converting the carbon monoxide and hydrogen to hydrocarbon fuels in a catalytic reactor. In at least one embodiment, the syngas production cell is a solid oxide fuel cell. In at least one embodiment, the syngas production cell is a solid oxide electrolyzer cell. 1. A system to convert carbon dioxide to hydrocarbon fuels using solar energy , the system comprising:a solar thermal power system configured to convert solar energy to thermal energy and electricity, the solar thermal power system being in thermal communication with a syngas production cell, wherein the syngas production cell is configured to receive thermal energy from the solar thermal power system; wherein the syngas production cell comprises a solid oxide electrolyzer cell,', 'wherein the fuel feed stream comprises carbon dioxide and water,', 'wherein the syngas production cell is configured to convert the carbon dioxide and water into carbon monoxide and hydrogen, the carbon monoxide and hydrogen operable to form the syngas stream; and, 'the syngas production cell comprises a fuel side comprising a fuel inlet configured to receive a fuel feed stream and a fuel outlet configured to receive a syngas stream, and an oxygen side comprising an oxygen outlet configured to receive an oxygen stream,'}a catalytic reactor fluidly connected to the fuel side of the syngas production cell, the catalytic reactor being configured to convert the syngas stream from the fuel side of the syngas production cell to a ...

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR CAPTURING HIGH-PURITY CO2 IN A HYDROCARBON FACILITY

Embodiments of methods for capturing high-purity COin a hydrocarbon facility and related systems are provided. The method comprises operating a hydrogen plant to generate a high-purity hydrogen stream and a COrich stream with a COconcentration above 30%; introducing the high-purity hydrogen stream into an anode of a molten carbonate fuel cell; introducing the COrich stream and Ointo a cathode of the molten carbonate fuel cell; reacting COand Owithin the cathode to produce carbonate and a cathode exhaust stream from a cathode outlet; reacting carbonate from the cathode with Hwithin the anode to produce electricity and an anode exhaust stream from an anode outlet, the anode exhaust stream comprising COand HO; separating the COin the anode exhaust stream in one or more separators to form a pure COstream and a HO stream; and collecting the pure COstream. 1. A method for capturing high-purity COin a hydrocarbon facility , the method comprising:{'sub': 2', '2, 'operating a hydrogen plant to generate a high-purity hydrogen stream and a COrich stream with a COconcentration above 30%;'}introducing the high-purity hydrogen stream into an anode of a molten carbonate fuel cell;{'sub': 2', '2, 'introducing the COrich stream and Ointo a cathode of the molten carbonate fuel cell;'}{'sub': 2', '2, 'reacting COand Owithin the cathode of the molten carbonate fuel cell to produce carbonate and a cathode exhaust stream from a cathode outlet of the molten carbonate fuel cell;'}{'sub': 2', '2', '2, 'reacting carbonate from the cathode of the molten carbonate fuel cell with Hwithin the anode of the molten carbonate fuel cell to produce electricity and an anode exhaust stream from an anode outlet of the molten carbonate fuel cell, the anode exhaust stream comprising COand HO;'}{'sub': 2', '2', '2', '2', '2, 'separating the COin the anode exhaust stream in one or more separators to form a pure COstream and a HO stream, the pure COstream having a purity of 80% to 100% on a molar basis; and ...

CARBON DIOXIDE CONVERSION TO HYDROCARBON FUEL VIA SYNGAS PRODUCTION CELL HARNESSED FROM SOLAR RADIATION

A process for converting carbon dioxide to hydrocarbon fuels using solar energy harnessed with a solar thermal power system to create thermal energy and electricity, using the thermal energy to heat a fuel feed stream, the heated fuel feed stream comprising carbon dioxide and water, the carbon dioxide captured from a flue gas stream, converting the carbon dioxide and water in a syngas production cell, the syngas production cell comprising a solid oxide electrolyte, to create carbon monoxide and hydrogen, and converting the carbon monoxide and hydrogen to hydrocarbon fuels in a catalytic reactor. In at least one embodiment, the syngas production cell is a solid oxide fuel cell. In at least one embodiment, the syngas production cell is a solid oxide electrolyzer cell. 1. A process for converting carbon dioxide to hydrocarbon fuels using solar energy , the process comprising the steps of:receiving direct sunlight with a plurality of heliostats and reflecting the direct sunlight from the heliostats as reflected sunlight onto a tower receiver, wherein the reflected sunlight heats a heat transfer fluid in the tower receiver;converting a water stream to a generated steam stream in a steam generator, wherein the heat transfer fluid provides heat to the steam generator;feeding the generated steam stream to a steam turbine, wherein the steam turbine converts thermal energy in the generated steam stream to mechanical energy to drive an electric generator to generate electricity;heating a fuel feed stream by transferring thermal energy from the heat transfer fluid to create a heated fuel feed stream, such that the heated fuel feed stream reaches a temperature of between 650° C. and 800° C.;feeding the heated fuel feed stream to a syngas production cell, wherein the heated fuel feed stream comprises carbon dioxide and water, wherein the carbon dioxide is captured from a flue gas stream;converting the carbon dioxide and water in the heated fuel feed stream to carbon monoxide and ...

METHOD AND SYSTEM TO MODIFY THE PERFORMANCE OF A REDOX FLOW BATTERY

According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a redox flow battery is provided comprising an ionically conductive separator, a working side flowing electrolyte, a working electrode in ionic contact with the working side of the ionically conductive separator and the working side flowing electrolyte, a counter electrode, and an auxiliary electrode peripherally circumscribed by the working electrode in a common layer of the flow battery. The auxiliary electrode is in ionic contact with the working electrode, an electrically insulating peripheral gap separates the auxiliary electrode from the working electrode. A working electrode terminal is conductively coupled to the working electrode, an auxiliary electrode terminal is conductively coupled to the auxiliary electrode, and a counter electrode terminal is conductively coupled to the counter electrode. An auxiliary power source is configured to establish an auxiliary circuit voltage differential between the counter electrode terminal and the auxiliary electrode terminal, control an auxiliary electrode voltage such that the auxiliary electrode voltage is within an electrochemical window of the working side flowing electrolyte, and establish a voltage differential between the working electrode terminal and the auxiliary electrode terminal. A method of operation of the redox flow battery is further provided 1. A redox flow battery comprising:an ionically conductive separator comprising a working side and a counter side;a working side flowing electrolyte;a working electrode in ionic contact with the working side of the ionically conductive separator and the working side flowing electrolyte;a counter side flowing electrolyte;a counter electrode in ionic contact with the counter side of the ionically conductive separator and the counter side flowing electrolyte;an auxiliary electrode peripherally circumscribed by the working electrode in a common layer of the flow battery, wherein the auxiliary electrode is in ionic ...

METHODS FOR RECOVERING ORGANIC HETEROATOM COMPOUNDS FROM HYDROCARBON FEEDSTOCKS

Methods for recovering organic heteroatom compounds from a hydrocarbon feedstock include feeding into a contactor a hydrocarbon feedstock and an aqueous solvent to form an extraction mixture of the aqueous solvent with the hydrocarbon feedstock. The hydrocarbon feedstock includes a hydrocarbon and an organic heteroatom compound. The aqueous solvent includes an ionic liquid formed from pressurized carbon dioxide and water. A pressure and temperature of the extraction mixture may be established that together tune the aqueous solvent to selectively form a solvent complex with the at least one organic heteroatom compound. Then, the solvent complex is extracted to a recovery vessel from the extraction mixture in the contactor. By adjustment of a recovery temperature of the recovery vessel, a recovery pressure of the recovery vessel, or both, the solvent complex decomposes into carbon dioxide and the organic heteroatom compound. The organic heteroatom compound is then recovered from the recovery vessel. 1. A method for reducing or removing one or more organic heteroatom compounds from a hydrocarbon feedstock to form a lean hydrocarbon , the method comprising:feeding a hydrocarbon feedstock into a contactor, the hydrocarbon feedstock comprising at least one hydrocarbon and at least one organic heteroatom compound, the at least one organic heteroatom compound chosen from nitrogen-containing heterocyclic compounds, sulfur-containing heterocyclic compounds, porphyrins, organometallic compounds, and combinations thereof;feeding an aqueous solvent into the contactor to form an extraction mixture of the aqueous solvent with the hydrocarbon feedstock, the aqueous solvent comprising an ionic liquid formed from pressurized carbon dioxide and water;establishing a contactor pressure and a contactor temperature of the extraction mixture in the contactor that together tune the aqueous solvent to selectively form a mixture containing a lean hydrocarbon and a solvent complex with the at ...

Mechanical energy storage in flow batteries to enhance energy storage

A hybrid flow redox battery system includes an electrochemical cell with an ion-exchange membrane, an anode, and a cathode, an anolyte tank, a catholyte tank, one or more tank separators, a plurality of electrolyte pathways, one or more turbines, and one or more power generation circuits. The anolyte tank includes a lower anolyte opening positioned below an upper anolyte opening. The catholyte tank includes a lower catholyte opening positioned below an upper catholyte opening. The electrolyte pathways extend between the upper and lower anolyte openings and the anode and the upper and lower catholyte openings and the cathode. The turbines are fluidly coupled to the electrolyte pathways. The tank separators are positioned within one or both of the anolyte tank and the catholyte tank and are translatable in a downward direction to induce electrolyte flow from the lower anolyte and catholyte openings, through the turbines to hydroelectrically generate power.

SOLAR SYSTEM COMPRISING SELF SUSTAINABLE CONDENSATION, WATER COLLECTION, AND CLEANING SUBASSEMBLIES

A solar system is provided comprising a light receiving surface, a condensation subassembly, a water collection subassembly, and a cleaning subassembly. The expansion chamber of the condensation subassembly is thermally coupled to the light receiving surface and thermally insulated from the ambient such that expansion of compressed air in the expansion chamber, as controlled by the compressed air expansion valve, encourages humidity condensation on the light receiving surface by reducing the temperature of the light receiving surface. The water collection subassembly comprises a water collection vessel and water direction hardware positioned to direct condensed water on the light receiving surface to the water collection vessel. The cleaning subassembly comprises a water dispensing unit positioned to dispense water from the water collection vessel over the light receiving surface of the solar system. 1. A solar system comprising a light receiving surface , a condensation subassembly , a water collection subassembly , and a cleaning subassembly , wherein:the light receiving surface is exposed to ambient air;the condensation subassembly comprises a compressed air expansion valve coupled to an expansion chamber;the expansion chamber of the condensation subassembly is thermally coupled to the light receiving surface and thermally insulated from the ambient such that expansion of compressed air in the expansion chamber, as controlled by the compressed air expansion valve, encourages humidity condensation on the light receiving surface by reducing the temperature of the light receiving surface;the water collection subassembly comprises a water collection vessel and water direction hardware positioned to direct condensed water on the light receiving surface to the water collection vessel;the cleaning subassembly comprises a water dispensing unit fluidly coupled to the water collection vessel via a cleaning fluid duct; andthe water dispensing unit is positioned to dispense ...

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR CAPTURING HIGH-PURITY CO2 IN A HYDROCARBON FACILITY

Embodiments of methods for capturing high-purity COin a hydrocarbon facility and related systems are provided. The method comprises operating a hydrogen plant to generate a high-purity hydrogen stream and a COrich stream with a COconcentration above 30%; introducing the high-purity hydrogen stream into an anode of a molten carbonate fuel cell; introducing the COrich stream and Ointo a cathode of the molten carbonate fuel cell; reacting COand Owithin the cathode to produce carbonate and a cathode exhaust stream from a cathode outlet; reacting carbonate from the cathode with Hwithin the anode to produce electricity and an anode exhaust stream from an anode outlet, the anode exhaust stream comprising COand HO; separating the COin the anode exhaust stream in one or more separators to form a pure COstream and a HO stream; and collecting the pure COstream. 1. A method for capturing high-purity COin a hydrocarbon facility , the method comprising:{'sub': 2', '2, 'operating a hydrogen plant to generate a hydrogen stream and a COrich stream with a COconcentration above 25%;'}introducing the hydrogen stream into an anode of a molten carbonate fuel cell;{'sub': 2', '2', '2, 'reacting COfrom the COrich stream and Owithin the cathode of the molten carbonate fuel cell to produce carbonate;'}{'sub': 2', '2', '2, 'reacting carbonate from the cathode of the molten carbonate fuel cell with Hwithin the anode of the molten carbonate fuel cell to produce an anode exhaust stream, the anode exhaust stream comprising COand HO;'}{'sub': 2', '2', '2', '2, 'separating the COin the anode exhaust stream in one or more separators to form a pure COstream and a HO stream, the pure COstream having a purity of 80% to 100% on a molar basis; and'}{'sub': '2', 'collecting the pure COstream.'}2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the hydrogen stream comprises at least 95% hydrogen gas.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the method further comprises providing the HO stream from the separator to a steam ...

ENHANCED ELECTROCHEMICAL OXIDATION OF CARBONACEOUS DEPOSITS IN LIQUID-HYDROCARBON FUELED SOLID OXIDE FUEL CELLS

Embodiments of a method of removing carbonaceous deposits in a liquid-hydrocarbon fueled solid oxide fuel cell and related system are provided. The method includes providing a solid oxide fuel cell system having an anode, a cathode, a solid oxide electrolyte oriented between the anode and cathode, an amplifier cathode disposed proximate the solid oxide electrolyte and the cathode, a fuel cell electric circuit electrically connecting the anode and the cathode, and an amplifier electric circuit electrically connecting the anode and the amplifier cathode. Further, operating the amplifier electric circuit in an electrolytic mode to electrically power the amplifier cathode, wherein the amplifier cathode generates and supplies O or CO to the anode. The method further includes removing the carbonaceous deposits on the anode by converting the carbonaceous deposits to carbon dioxide gas via reaction with the O or CO and expelling the carbon dioxide gas. 1. A method of removing carbonaceous deposits in a liquid-hydrocarbon fueled solid oxide fuel cell , the method comprising:providing a solid oxide fuel cell system comprising an anode, a cathode, a solid oxide electrolyte oriented between the anode and cathode, an amplifier cathode disposed proximate the solid oxide electrolyte and the cathode, a fuel cell electric circuit electrically connecting the anode and the cathode, and an amplifier electric circuit electrically connecting the anode and the amplifier cathode;{'sup': 2−', '2−, 'sub': '3', 'operating the amplifier electric circuit in an electrolytic mode to electrically power the amplifier cathode, wherein the amplifier cathode generates and supplies O or CO to the anode; and'}{'sup': 2−', '2−, 'sub': '3', 'removing the carbonaceous deposits on the anode by converting the carbonaceous deposits to carbon dioxide gas via reaction with the O or CO and expelling the carbon dioxide gas.'}2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the amplifier electric circuit further comprises at ...

NOVEL MODULAR ELECTROCHEMICAL CELL AND STACK DESIGN

An electrochemical cell, electrochemical cell assembly and a method of assembling an electrochemical cell assembly. The cell includes a pair of current collectors that when joined together form a three-dimensional electrode assembly with an ion-exchange membrane disposed between the anode and cathode of the electrode assembly. The current collectors are sized and shaped such that a three-dimensional reactant chamber volume of one of the current collectors accepts nested placement of at least a portion of the three-dimensional reactant chamber volume of the other current collector. This design allows for easy and direct addition, removal or replacement of cells in a stack of such cells in a modular fashion. In addition, ease of mounting and unmounting of the cells on reactant manifolds promotes ease of assembly of two-dimensional or three-dimensional stack structures. 1. An electrochemical cell comprising:an inner current collector;an inner reactant flowpath;an outer current collector;an outer reactant flowpath; andan ion-exchange membrane, whereinthe inner reactant flowpath comprises an inner reactant inlet, an inner reactant outlet, and an inner reactant chamber in fluid communication with the inner reactant inlet and the inner reactant outlet,the inner current collector comprises one or more inner electrodes that are dimensionally configured to create an interior three-dimensional volume forming at least a portion of the inner reactant chamber,the outer current collector comprises one or more outer electrodes that are dimensionally configured to create an interior three-dimensional volume forming an opening therein,the inner current collector and the interior three-dimensional volume of the inner current collector are nested through the opening and within the three-dimensional volume of the outer current collector such that the interior three-dimensional volume of the inner current collector resides within both the inner current collector and the outer current ...

System and method for power generation with a closed-loop photocatalytic solar device

A photocatalytic power generation system including a solar housing, a photoanode, an electrolyte membrane, a cathode, an oxygen diffusion membrane, and an external power generation circuit. The photoanode and the cathode are each positioned within the solar housing and electrically coupled to the external power generation circuit. The electrolyte membrane is positioned between and electrochemically engaged with the photoanode and the cathode forming a photocatalytic cell. The solar housing comprises a closed-loop water chamber having an anode side flow channel, a cathode side flow channel, a recombined water channel, and an oxygen diffusion membrane. Further, the oxygen diffusion membrane is positioned and configured to inhibit recombined water generated at the cathode from flowing from the cathode side to the anode side along the oxygen transport channel and permit recombined water generated at the cathode from flowing from the cathode side to the anode side along the recombined water channel.

IN-SITU GRAVITATIONAL SEPARATION OF ELECTROLYTE SOLUTIONS IN FLOW REDOX BATTERY SYSTEMS

A flow redox battery system including an electrochemical cell, an anolyte tank, a catholyte tank, a first anolyte carrier slurry, a second anolyte carrier slurry, a first catholyte carrier slurry, a second catholyte carrier slurry, and a power generation circuit. An ion-exchange membrane is electrochemically engaged with an anode and a cathode. The power generation circuit is electrically coupled to the anode and the cathode. The anolyte tank is fluidly coupled to the anode and the catholyte tank is fluidly coupled to the cathode. The first anolyte carrier slurry includes a density less than a density of the second anolyte carrier slurry and an electronegativity different than an electronegativity of the second anolyte carrier slurry. Further, the first catholyte carrier slurry includes a density less than a density of the second catholyte carrier slurry and an electronegativity different than an electronegativity of the second catholyte carrier slurry.

METHODS FOR CO-PROCESSING CARBON DIOXIDE AND HYDROGEN SULFIDE

A method for co-processing HS and COin an electrolyzer includes feeding a first gas stream having HS to an anode and feeding a second gas stream having COto a cathode. The HS is split into hydrogen and elemental sulfur. The hydrogen is transferred from the anode to the cathode, and the COis hydrogenated with the transferred hydrogen. A method for producing electricity in a fuel cell includes feeding a first gas stream having HS and CO to an anode, and feeding a second gas stream having oxygen to a cathode. The HS and CO forms hydrogen and carbonyl sulfide. The hydrogen is transferred from the anode to the cathode. The transferred hydrogen is oxidized with the oxygen of the second gas stream, and electricity formed from the oxidation is collected. 1. A method for co-processing HS and COin an electrolyzer that comprises an anode , a cathode , and an electrolyte positioned between and in electrochemical contact with the anode and the cathode , the method comprising:{'sub': '2', 'feeding a first gas stream comprising HS to the anode of the electrolyzer;'}{'sub': '2', 'feeding a second gas stream comprising COto the cathode of the electrolyzer;'}{'sub': '2', 'splitting HS of the first gas stream into hydrogen and elemental sulfur;'}{'sub': '2', 'transferring the hydrogen split from the HS of the first gas stream from the anode across the electrolyte to the cathode; and'}{'sub': '2', 'hydrogenating the COfrom the second gas stream with the hydrogen that was transferred from the anode.'}3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the COfrom the second gas stream is hydrogenated to form water and one of methane and methanol.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the anode comprises a metal sulfide.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the anode comprises a member selected from the group consisting of NiS claim 1 , MoS claim 1 , WS claim 1 , CoS claim 1 , LiS/CoS claim 1 , FeMoS claim 1 , NiMoS claim 1 , CoMoS claim 1 , VO claim 1 , LiCoO claim 1 , Pt/TiO claim 1 , Pd claim 1 , Au claim 1 , ...

Sulfur management and utilization in molten metal anode solid oxide fuel cells fuels cells

Embodiments of a molten metal anode solid oxide fuel cell (MMA-SOFC) system comprise a first MMA-SOFC and a second MMA-SOFC, a fuel contactor integral with the first MMA-SOFC or in fluid communication with the first MMA-SOFC, a molten metal conduit configured to deliver molten metal from a first molten metal anode to a second molten metal anode, and one or more external electric circuits, wherein a first molten metal anode is configured to oxidize molten metal to produce metal oxides and electrons, the fuel contactor is configured to reduce the metal oxides and produce metals and metal sulfides in the molten metal upon reaction with sulfur-containing fuel. The second molten metal anode is configured to oxidize the metal sulfides in the metal sulfides-containing molten metal to produce metals and electrons, and the external electric circuits are configured to generate power from the electrons produced in the first and second MMA-SOFCs.

MOLTEN METAL ANODE SOLID OXIDE FUEL CELL FOR TRANSPORTATION-RELATED AUXILIARY POWER UNITS

A vehicular power system, a vehicle and a method of providing auxiliary power to a vehicle using an auxiliary power unit that uses a molten metal anode solid oxide fuel cell rather than an internal combustion engine. The auxiliary power unit includes a container with numerous fuel cells disposed within it such that when the metal anode is heated, the metal converts to a molten state that can be electrochemically cycled between oxidized and reduced states by oxygen and a fuel present in the molten metal, respectively. The auxiliary power unit further includes a furnace that selectively provides heat to the fuel cells in order to place the anode into its molten metal state. Seals may provide fluid isolation between the molten metal within the container and the ambient environment. 1. A vehicular power system comprising:a motive power unit; and a container;', a plurality of half-cells each comprising a cathode and a solid electrolyte; and', 'an anode bath comprising molten metal, wherein at least a portion of the half-cells are partially submerged in the bath, and wherein upon operation of the auxiliary power unit, an oxygen-bearing reactant flows through the half-cells to electrochemically react with at least one of the molten metal and a fuel-bearing reactant within the bath;, 'a fuel cell disposed within the container, the fuel cell comprising, 'a furnace thermally cooperative with the fuel cell such that upon operation of the furnace, the molten metal in the bath is maintained in a substantially molten metal state; and', 'electrical circuitry cooperative with the fuel cell such that an electric current produced by the fuel cell may be delivered through the electrical circuitry to a vehicular load., 'an auxiliary power unit comprising2. The vehicular power unit of claim 1 , further comprising at least one seal disposed within the auxiliary power unit to ensure substantially complete fluid isolation of the bath within the container.3. The vehicular power system of ...

SELF-SUSTAINABLE SOLID OXIDE FUEL CELL SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR POWERING A GAS WELL

Embodiments of a self-sustainable solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) system for powering a gas well comprise a first SOFC comprising a first cathode, a first anode, and a first solid electrolyte; a second SOFC comprising a second cathode, a second anode, and a second solid electrolyte; SOremoval equipment; a combustion circuit comprising a combustor and a circulating heat carrier in thermal connection with the combustor, the first SOFC, and the second SOFC; and one or more external electric circuits. The first anode comprises a first oxidation region configured to produce SOand electrons. The second anode comprises a second oxidation region configured to electrochemically oxidize CHto produce syngas and electrons and electrochemically oxidize Hto produce HO and electrons. The external electric circuits are configured to generate power from the electrons produced in both the first SOFC and the second SOFC. 1. A self-sustainable solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) system for powering a gas well comprising:a first SOFC comprising a first cathode, a first anode, and a first solid electrolyte disposed between the first cathode and the first anode;a second SOFC comprising a second cathode, a second anode, and a second solid electrolyte disposed between the second cathode and the second anode fluidly connected to a first products stream from the first SOFC;{'sub': 2', '2, 'SOremoval equipment in fluid communication with the first SOFC to remove SO;'}a combustion circuit comprising a combustor and a circulating heat carrier fluidly connected to a second products stream from the second SOFC; and [{'sub': 2', '2, 'the first anode comprises a first oxidation region configured to produce SOand electrons from HS in a natural gas feed stream;'}, {'sub': 4', '2', '2, 'the second anode comprises a second oxidation region configured to electrochemically oxidize CHin the first products stream to produce syngas and electrons and electrochemically oxidize Hto produce HO and electrons;'}, 'the ...

Carbon dioxide conversion to hydrocarbon fuel via syngas production cell harnessed from solar radiation

Solar system comprising self sustainable condensation, water collection, and cleaning subassemblies

A solar system is provided comprising a light receiving surface, a condensation subassembly, a water collection subassembly, and a cleaning subassembly. The expansion chamber of the condensation subassembly is thermally coupled to the light receiving surface and thermally insulated from the ambient such that expansion of compressed air in the expansion chamber, as controlled by the compressed air expansion valve, encourages humidity condensation on the light receiving surface by reducing the temperature of the light receiving surface. The water collection subassembly comprises a water collection vessel and water direction hardware positioned to direct condensed water on the light receiving surface to the water collection vessel. The cleaning subassembly comprises a water dispensing unit positioned to dispense water from the water collection vessel over the light receiving surface of the solar system.

Device and process for the treatment of engine flue gases with high oxygen excess

High oxygen concentration in the flue gas of lean burn engines is a major issue but also a challenge for the efficient treatment of gaseous pollutants. The present patent application discloses a method for removing oxygen from the exhaust gases of a lean burn engine by shifting gas mixture composition in order to make further processing of the flue gas possible in catalytic converters widely used in petrol engines emission control. The method relies on carbonate ion conductive electrochemical membranes that utilize the large CO 2 concentration gradient between the flue gases and the atmosphere. This results in a gradient in the electrochemical potential of the carbonate ions, in diffusion of the latter from the flue gases to the atmosphere and thus, in the removal of O 2 from the gas stream of the flue gases. A device to remove O 2 from the flue gas stream using the above method is also described in the present patent application. Moreover, the suggested process to use the device for removing oxygen is described. The process includes installation of the oxygen removal device in the flue gas stream of lean burn engines at a proper temperature in flow contact with the particle filter and the catalytic converter for efficient treatment of toxic gaseous pollutants, like CO, NO and hydrocarbons.

Methods for co-processing carbon dioxides and hydrogen sulfide

A method for co-processing H 2 S and CO 2 in an electrolyzer includes feeding a first gas stream having H 2 S to an anode and feeding a second gas stream having CO 2 to a cathode. The H 2 S is split into hydrogen ions and elemental sulfur. The hydrogen ions are transferred from the anode to the cathode, and the CO 2 is hydrogenated with the transferred hydrogen ions. A method for producing electricity in a fuel cell includes feeding a first gas stream having H 2 S and CO to an anode, and feeding a second gas stream having oxygen to a cathode. The H 2 S and CO forms hydrogen ions and carbonyl sulfide. The hydrogen ions are transferred from the anode to the cathode. The transferred hydrogen is oxidized with the oxygen of the second gas stream, and electricity formed from the oxidation is collected.

Method and system for capturing high-purity CO2 in a hydrocarbon facility

Embodiments of methods for capturing high-purity CO2 in a hydrocarbon facility and related systems are provided. The method comprises operating a hydrogen plant to generate a high-purity hydrogen stream and a CO2 rich stream with a CO2 concentration above 30%; introducing the high-purity hydrogen stream into an anode of a molten carbonate fuel cell; introducing the CO2 rich stream and O2 into a cathode of the molten carbonate fuel cell; reacting CO2 and O2 within the cathode to produce carbonate and a cathode exhaust stream from a cathode outlet; reacting carbonate from the cathode with H2 within the anode to produce electricity and an anode exhaust stream from an anode outlet, the anode exhaust stream comprising CO2 and H2O; separating the CO2 in the anode exhaust stream in one or more separators to form a pure CO2 stream and a H2O stream; and collecting the pure CO2 stream.

Carbon dioxide conversion to hydrocarbon fuel via syngas production cell harnessed from solar radiation

A process for converting carbon dioxide to hydrocarbon fuels using solar energy harnessed with a solar thermal power system to create thermal energy and electricity, using the thermal energy to heat a fuel feed stream, the heated fuel feed stream comprising carbon dioxide and water, the carbon dioxide captured from a flue gas stream, converting the carbon dioxide and water in a syngas production cell, the syngas production cell comprising a solid oxide electrolyte, to create carbon monoxide and hydrogen, and converting the carbon monoxide and hydrogen to hydrocarbon fuels in a catalytic reactor. In at least one embodiment, the syngas production cell is a solid oxide fuel cell. In at least one embodiment, the syngas production cell is a solid oxide electrolyzer cell.

Method and system to modify the performance of a redox flow battery

According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a redox flow battery is provided comprising an ionically conductive separator, a working side flowing electrolyte, a working electrode in ionic contact with the working side of the ionically conductive separator and the working side flowing electrolyte, a counter electrode, and an auxiliary electrode peripherally circumscribed by the working electrode in a common layer of the flow battery. The auxiliary electrode is in ionic contact with the working electrode, an electrically insulating peripheral gap separates the auxiliary electrode from the working electrode. A working electrode terminal is conductively coupled to the working electrode, an auxiliary electrode terminal is conductively coupled to the auxiliary electrode, and a counter electrode terminal is conductively coupled to the counter electrode. An auxiliary power source is configured to establish an auxiliary circuit voltage differential between the counter electrode terminal and the auxiliary electrode terminal, control an auxiliary electrode voltage such that the auxiliary electrode voltage is within an electrochemical window of the working side flowing electrolyte, and establish a voltage differential between the working electrode terminal and the auxiliary electrode terminal. A method of operation of the redox flow battery is further provided.

Methods for recovering organic heteroatom compounds from hydrocarbon feedstocks

Methods for recovering organic heteroatom compounds from a hydrocarbon feedstock include feeding into a contactor a hydrocarbon feedstock and an aqueous solvent to form an extraction mixture of the aqueous solvent with the hydrocarbon feedstock. The hydrocarbon feedstock includes a hydrocarbon and an organic heteroatom compound. The aqueous solvent includes an ionic liquid formed from pressurized carbon dioxide and water. A pressure and temperature of the extraction mixture may be established that together tune the aqueous solvent to selectively form a solvent complex with the at least one organic heteroatom compound. Then, the solvent complex is extracted to a recovery vessel from the extraction mixture in the contactor. By adjustment of a recovery temperature of the recovery vessel, a recovery pressure of the recovery vessel, or both, the solvent complex decomposes into carbon dioxide and the organic heteroatom compound. The organic heteroatom compound is then recovered from the recovery vessel.

Methods for co-processing carbon dioxides and hydrogen sulfide

Molten metal anode solid oxide fuel cell for transportation-related auxiliary power units

A vehicular power system, a vehicle and a method of providing auxiliary power to a vehicle using an auxiliary power unit that uses a molten metal anode solid oxide fuel cell rather than an internal combustion engine. The auxiliary power unit includes a container with numerous fuel cells disposed within it such that when the metal anode is heated, the metal converts to a molten state that can be electrochemically cycled between oxidized and reduced states by oxygen and a fuel present in the molten metal, respectively. The auxiliary power unit further includes a furnace that selectively provides heat to the fuel cells in order to place the anode into its molten metal state. Seals may provide fluid isolation between the molten metal within the container and the ambient environment.

Mechanical energy storage in flow batteries to enhance energy storage

A hybrid flow redox battery system includes an electrochemical cell with an ion- exchange membrane, an anode, and a cathode, an anolyte tank, a catholyte tank, one or more tank separators, a plurality of electrolyte pathways, one or more turbines, and one or more power generation circuits. The anolyte tank includes a lower anolyte opening positioned below an upper anolyte opening. The catholyte tank includes a lower catholyte opening positioned below an upper catholyte opening. The electrolyte pathways extend between the upper and lower anolyte openings and the anode and the upper and lower catholyte openings and the cathode. The turbines are fluidly coupled to the electrolyte pathways. The tank separators are positioned within one or both of the anolyte tank and the catholyte tank and are translatable in a downward direction to induce electrolyte flow from the lower anolyte and catholyte openings, through the turbines to hydroelectrically generate power.

Mechanical energy storage in flow batteries to enhance energy storage

A hybrid flow redox battery system includes an electrochemical cell with an ion- exchange membrane, an anode, and a cathode, an anolyte tank, a catholyte tank, one or more tank separators, a plurality of electrolyte pathways, one or more turbines, and one or more power generation circuits. The anolyte tank includes a lower anolyte opening positioned below an upper anolyte opening. The catholyte tank includes a lower catholyte opening positioned below an upper catholyte opening. The electrolyte pathways extend between the upper and lower anolyte openings and the anode and the upper and lower catholyte openings and the cathode. The turbines are fluidly coupled to the electrolyte pathways. The tank separators are positioned within one or both of the anolyte tank and the catholyte tank and are translatable in a downward direction to induce electrolyte flow from the lower anolyte and catholyte openings, through the turbines to hydroelectrically generate power.

System and method for power generation with a closed-loop photocatalytic solar device

A photocatalytic power generation system including a solar housing, a photoanode, an electrolyte membrane, a cathode, an oxygen diffusion membrane, and an external power generation circuit. The photoanode and the cathode are each positioned within the solar housing and electrically coupled to the external power generation circuit. The electrolyte membrane is positioned between and electrochemically engaged with the photoanode and the cathode forming a photocatalytic cell. The solar housing comprises a closed-loop water chamber having an anode side flow channel, a cathode side flow channel, a recombined water channel, and an oxygen diffusion membrane. Further, the oxygen diffusion membrane is positioned and configured to inhibit recombined water generated at the cathode from flowing from the cathode side to the anode side along the oxygen transport channel and permit recombined water generated at the cathode from flowing from the cathode side to the anode side along the recombined water channel.

Molten metal anode solid oxide fuel cell for transportation-related auxiliary power units

INTERNATIONAL APPLICATION PUBLISHED UNDER THE PATENT COOPERATION TREATY (PCT) (19) World Intellectual Property 11111111111111111111111111111011111111110111111111111111111011111111111 Organization International Bureau (10) International Publication Number (43) International Publication Date ......0\"\" WO 2017/201228 Al 23 November 2017 (23.11.2017) WIPO I PCT (51) International Patent Classification: 11533 (SA). AHMED, Rehan; c/o Alfaisal University, Post HO1M 8/0271 (2016.01) H01M 8/22 (2006.01) Office Box 50927, Almaathar Road, Riyadh, 11533 (SA). H01M 8/0276 (2016.01) HO1M 8/243 (2016.01) GOOSEN, Matheus F.; c/o Alfaisal University, Post Of- H01M 8/04007 (2016.01) HO1M 8/2455 (2016.01) fice Box 50927, Almaathar Road, Riyadh, 11533 (SA). HO1M 8/1233 (2016.01) H01111 8/124 (2016.01) KATIKANENI, Sai P.; c/o Saudi Arabian Oil Company, (21) International Application Number: Post Office Box 5000, Dhahran, 31311 (SA). SOUENTIE, PCT/US2017/033232 Stamatios; c/o Saudi Arabian Oil Company, Post Office Box 5000, Dhahran, 31311 (SA). (22) International Filing Date: (74) Agent: REED, John D. et al.; Dinsmore & Shohl LLP, 18 May 2017 (18.05.2017) Fifth Third Center, One South Main Street, Suite 1300, Day- (25) Filing Language: English ton, Ohio 45402 (US). (26) Publication Language: English (81) Designated States (unless otherwise indicated, for every kind of national protection available): AE, AG, AL, AM, (30) Priority Data: AO, AT, AU, AZ, BA, BB, BG, BH, BN, BR, BW, BY, BZ, 15/158,637 19 May 2016 (19.05.2016) US CA, CH, CL, CN, CO, CR, CU, CZ, DE, DJ, DK, DM, DO, (71) Applicants: SAUDI ARABIAN OIL COMPANY DZ, EC, EE, EG, ES, FI, GB, GD, GE, GH, GM, GT, HN, [SA/SA]; Post Office Box 5000, Dhahran, 31311 (SA). AL- HR, HU, ID, IL, IN, IR, IS, JP, KE, KG, KH, KN, KP, KR, FAISAL UNIVERSITY [SA/SA]; Post Office Box 50927, KW, KZ, LA, LC, LK, LR, LS, LU, LY, MA, MD, ME, MG, Almaathar Road, Riyadh, 11533 (SA). MK, MN, MW, MX, MY, MZ, NA, NG, NI, NO, NZ, OM, — PA, PE, PG, ...

System and method for power generation with a closed-loop photocatalytic solar device

A photocatalytic power generation system including a solar housing, a photoanode, an electrolyte membrane, a cathode, an oxygen diffusion membrane, and an external power generation circuit. The photoanode and the cathode are each positioned within the solar housing and electrically coupled to the external power generation circuit. The electrolyte membrane is positioned between and electrochemically engaged with the photoanode and the cathode forming a photocatalytic cell. The solar housing comprises a closed-loop water chamber having an anode side flow channel, a cathode side flow channel, a recombined water channel, and an oxygen diffusion membrane. Further, the oxygen diffusion membrane is positioned and configured to inhibit recombined water generated at the cathode from flowing from the cathode side to the anode side along the oxygen transport channel and permit recombined water generated at the cathode from flowing from the cathode side to the anode side along the recombined water channel.

System and method for power generation with a closed-loop photocatalytic solar device

INTERNATIONAL APPLICATION PUBLISHED UNDER THE PATENT COOPERATION TREATY (PCT) (19) World Intellectual Property -, Organization MD 1111101110101011111 HO 111110111011110111011EIMI OE In III International Bureau 0.. .... .. ..... ..or::,„, (10) International Publication Number (43) International Publication Date WO 2017/155842 Al 14 September 2017 (14.09.2017) WIP0 I PCT (51) International Patent Classification: (74) Agents: KALTER, Alexander, J. et al.; c/o Dinsmore & H01M 14/00 (2006.01) H01M 16/00 (2006.01) Shohl LLP, One South Main Street, Suite 1300, Dayton, HO1G 9/20 (2006.01) OH 45402 (US). (21) International Application Number: (81) Designated States (unless otherwise indicated, for every PCT/US2017/020851 kind of national protection available): AE, AG, AL, AM, AO, AT, AU, AZ, BA, BB, BG, BH, BN, BR, BW, BY, (22) International Filing Date: BZ, CA, CH, CL, CN, CO, CR, CU, CZ, DE, DJ, DK, DM, 6 March 2017 (06.03.2017) DO, DZ, EC, EE, EG, ES, FI, GB, GD, GE, GH, GM, GT, (25) Filing Language: English HN, HR, HU, ID, IL, IN, IR, IS, JP, KE, KG, KH, KN, KP, KR, KW, KZ, LA, LC, LK, LR, LS, LU, LY, MA, (26) Publication Language: English MD, ME, MG, MK, MN, MW, MX, MY, MZ, NA, NG, (30) Priority Data: NI, NO, NZ, OM, PA, PE, PG, PH, PL, PT, QA, RO, RS, 15/065,235 9 March 2016 (09.03.2016) US RU, RW, SA, SC, SD, SE, SG, SK, SL, SM, ST, SV, SY, TH, TJ, TM, TN, TR, TT, TZ, UA, UG, US, UZ, VC, VN, (71) Applicant: SAUDI ARABIAN OIL COMPANY ZA, ZM, ZW. [SA/SA]; Post Office Box 5000, 31311 Dhahran (SA). (84) Designated States (unless otherwise indicated, for every (71) Applicant (for AG only): ARAMCO SERVICES COM- kind of regional protection available): ARIPO (BW, GH, PANY [US/US]; 9009 West Loop South, Houston, TX GM, KE, LR, LS, MW, MZ, NA, RW, SD, SL, ST, SZ, 77210-4535 (US). TZ, UG, ZM, ZW), Eurasian (AM, AZ, BY, KG, KZ, RU, (72) Inventors: SOUENTIE, Stamatios; c/o Saudi Arabian Oil TJ, TM), European (AL, AT, BE, BG, CH, CY, CZ, DE, — DK, EE, ES, FI, FR, GB, GR, HR, HU ...

Sulfur management and utilization in molten metal anode solid oxide fuel cells

Embodiments of a molten metal anode solid oxide fuel cell (MMA-SOFC) system comprise a first and second MMA-SOFC, a fuel contactor integral or in fluid communication with the first MMA-SOFC, a molten metal conduit that delivers molten metal from a first molten metal anode to a second molten metal anode, and one or more external electric circuits, wherein the first molten metal anode oxidizes molten metal to produce metal oxides and electrons. The fuel contactor reduces the metal oxides and produce metals and metal sulfides in the molten metal upon reaction with sulfur-containing fuel. The second molten metal anode oxidizes the metal sulfides in the metal sulfides-containing molten metal to produce metals and electrons, and the external electric circuits generate power from the electrons produced in the first and second MMA-SOFCs.

Sulfur management and utilization in molten metal anode solid oxide fuel cells

Embodiments of a molten metal anode solid oxide fuel cell (MMA-SOFC) system comprise a first and second MMA-SOFC, a fuel contactor integral or in fluid communication with the first MMA-SOFC, a molten metal conduit that delivers molten metal from a first molten metal anode to a second molten metal anode, and one or more external electric circuits, wherein the first molten metal anode oxidizes molten metal to produce metal oxides and electrons. The fuel contactor reduces the metal oxides and produce metals and metal sulfides in the molten metal upon reaction with sulfur-containing fuel. The second molten metal anode oxidizes the metal sulfides in the metal sulfides-containing molten metal to produce metals and electrons, and the external electric circuits generate power from the electrons produced in the first and second MMA-SOFCs.

In-situ gravitational separation of electrolyte solutions in flow redox battery systems

A flow redox battery system including an electrochemical cell, an anolyte tank, a catholyte tank, a first anolyte carrier slurry, a second anolyte carrier slurry, a first catholyte carrier slurry, a second catholyte carrier slurry, and a power generation circuit. An ion-exchange membrane is electrochemically engaged with an anode and a cathode. The power generation circuit is electrically coupled to the anode and the cathode. The anolyte tank is fluidly coupled to the anode and the catholyte tank is fluidly coupled to the cathode. The first anolyte carrier slurry includes a density less than a density of the second anolyte carrier slurry and an electronegativity different than an electronegativity of the second anolyte carrier slurry. Further, the first catholyte carrier slurry includes a density less than a density of the second catholyte carrier slurry and an electronegativity different than an electronegativity of the second catholyte carrier slurry.

In-situ gravitational separation of electrolyte solutions in flow redox battery systems

INTERNATIONAL APPLICATION PUBLISHED UNDER THE PATENT COOPERATION TREATY (PCT) (19) World Intellectual Property -, Organization IIIM141101110101011111 HO 1111101110111100111110111 NH III International Bureau 0.. .... .. ..... ..or::,„, (10) International Publication Number (43) International Publication Date WO 2017/160712 Al 21 September 2017 (21.09.2017) WIP0 I PCT (51) International Patent Classification: (81) Designated States (unless otherwise indicated, for every HO1M 8/18 (2006.01) kind of national protection available): AE, AG, AL, AM, AO, AT, AU, AZ, BA, BB, BG, BH, BN, BR, BW, BY, (21) International Application Number: BZ, CA, CH, CL, CN, CO, CR, CU, CZ, DE, DJ, DK, DM, PCT/US2017/022092 DO, DZ, EC, EE, EG, ES, FI, GB, GD, GE, GH, GM, GT, (22) International Filing Date: HN, HR, HU, ID, IL, IN, IR, IS, JP, KE, KG, KH, KN, 13 March 2017 (13.03.2017) KP, KR, KW, KZ, LA, LC, LK, LR, LS, LU, LY, MA, MD, ME, MG, MK, MN, MW, MX, MY, MZ, NA, NG, (25) Filing Language: English NI, NO, NZ, OM, PA, PE, PG, PH, PL, PT, QA, RO, RS, (26) Publication Language: English RU, RW, SA, SC, SD, SE, SG, SK, SL, SM, ST, SV, SY, TH, TJ, TM, TN, TR, TT, TZ, UA, UG, US, UZ, VC, VN, (30) Priority Data: ZA, ZM, ZW. 15/072,912 17 March 2016 (17.03.2016) US (84) Designated States (unless otherwise indicated, for every (71) Applicant: SAUDI ARABIAN OIL COMPANY kind of regional protection available): ARIPO (BW, GH, [SA/SA]; Post Office Box 5000, Dhahran, 31311 (SA). GM, KE, LR, LS, MW, MZ, NA, RW, SD, SL, ST, SZ, TZ, UG, ZM, ZW), Eurasian (AM, AZ, BY, KG, KZ, RU, (71) Applicant (for AG only): ARAMCO SERVICES COM- PANY [US/US]; 9009 West Loop South, Houston, Texas TJ, TM), European (AL, AT, BE, BG, CH, CY, CZ, DE, 77096 (US). DK, EE, ES, FI, FR, GB, GR, HR, HU, IE, IS, IT, LT, LU, LV, MC, MK, MT, NL, NO, PL, PT, RO, RS, SE, SI, SK, (72) Inventors: HAMMAD, Ahmad D.; c/o Saudi Arabian Oil SM, TR), OAPI (BF, BJ, CF, CG, CI, CM, GA, GN, GQ, Company, Post Office Box 5000, Dhahran, 31311 (SA). GW, ...

Self-sustainable solid oxide fuel cell system and method for powering a gas well

Embodiments of a self-sustainable solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) system for powering a gas well comprise a first SOFC comprising a first cathode, a first anode, and a first solid electrolyte; a second SOFC comprising a second cathode, a second anode, and a second solid electrolyte; SO 2 removal equipment; a combustion circuit comprising a combustor and a circulating heat carrier in thermal connection with the combustor, the first SOFC, and the second SOFC; and one or more external electric circuits. The first anode comprises a first oxidation region configured to produce SO 2 and electrons. The second anode comprises a second oxidation region configured to electrochemically oxidize CH 4 to produce syngas and electrons and electrochemically oxidize H 2 to produce H 2 O and electrons. The external electric circuits are configured to generate power from the electrons produced in both the first SOFC and the second SOFC.

Electrochemical oxidation of carbonaceous deposits in liquid-hydrocarbon fueled solid oxide fuel cells

Embodiments of a method of removing carbonaceous deposits in a liquid-hydrocarbon fueled solid oxide fuel cell and related system are provided. The method includes providing a solid oxide fuel cell system having an anode, a cathode, a solid oxide electrolyte oriented between the anode and cathode, an amplifier cathode disposed proximate the solid oxide electrolyte and the cathode, a fuel cell electric circuit electrically connecting the anode and the cathode, and an amplifier electric circuit electrically connecting the anode and the amplifier cathode. Further, operating the amplifier electric circuit in an electrolytic mode to electrically power the amplifier cathode, wherein the amplifier cathode generates and supplies O2- or CO32- to the anode. The method further includes removing the carbonaceous deposits on the anode by converting the carbonaceous deposits to carbon dioxide gas via reaction with the O2- or CO32- and expelling the carbon dioxide gas.

Electrochemical oxidation of carbonaceous deposits in liquid-hydrocarbon fueled solid oxide fuel cells

Methods for co-processing carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulfide

A method for co-processing H 2 S and CO 2 in an electrolyzer includes feeding a first gas stream having H 2 S to an anode and feeding a second gas stream having CO 2 to a cathode. The H 2 S is split into hydrogen and elemental sulfur. The hydrogen is transferred from the anode to the cathode, and the CO 2 is hydrogenated with the transferred hydrogen. A method for producing electricity in a fuel cell includes feeding a first gas stream having H 2 S and CO to an anode, and feeding a second gas stream having oxygen to a cathode. The H 2 S and CO forms hydrogen and carbonyl sulfide. The hydrogen is transferred from the anode to the cathode. The transferred hydrogen is oxidized with the oxygen of the second gas stream, and electricity formed from the oxidation is collected.

Sulfur management and utilization in molten metal anode solid oxide fuel cells

Embodiments of a molten metal anode solid oxide fuel cell (MMA-SOFC) system comprise a first MMA-SOFC and a second MMA-SOFC, a fuel contactor integral with the first MMA-SOFC or in fluid communication with the first MMA-SOFC, a molten metal conduit configured to deliver molten metal from a first molten metal anode to a second molten metal anode, and one or more external electric circuits, wherein a first molten metal anode is configured to oxidize molten metal to produce metal oxides and electrons, the fuel contactor is configured to reduce the metal oxides and produce metals and metal sulfides in the molten metal upon reaction with sulfur-containing fuel. The second molten metal anode is configured to oxidize the metal sulfides in the metal sulfides-containing molten metal to produce metals and electrons, and the external electric circuits are configured to generate power from the electrons produced in the first and second MMA-SOFCs.