Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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HYDROGEN CATALYSIS POWER CELL
FOR ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEMS
.
Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to power cells for gas tnlrbine engines,
boilers, heaters and other mechanisms for energy conversion and ufilization,
and
more specifically, to power cells enabling the catalysis of hydrogen atoms to
lower
energy states and the conversion of heat released therefrom to other forms of
energy.
Background of the Invention
Hydrogen Catalysis
The continuing availability of reliable, economical sources of energy
is essential for the survival and advancement of modern civilization. Current
global
energy consumption is approximately 400 quadrillion Btu (4x10" Btu) per year.
Primary sources of energy are fossil fuels (oil, gas, coal, - 85%), nuclear
fission
(' 6%), and renewable sources (wood, biomass, wind, solar, hydro, - 8%)_ The
capability of existing energy sources to support the needs of civilization
into the
future is limited, due to limited resources, environmental impact concerns,
and cost
considerations. Fundamental breakthroughs will be required to provide for long
term energy needs. Nuclear fusion has long been identified as having this
potential.
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However, decades of high priority development efforts have failed to produce a
viable design for nuclear fusion energy production_
A novel system for extracting energy from hydrogen based upon the
catalysis of hydrogen atoms to lower energy states has been developed based on
theoretical projections and experimental results reported by Mills & Good in
Fractional Quantum Energy Levels of Hydrogen, Fusion Technology, Nov. 1995.
The elements of the system are summarized below, with a more detailed
documentation of the theory and experimental data provided in Mills, R., The
Grand Unified Theory of Classical Ouantum Mechanics, September 1996 Edition,
Blacicl.ight Power Inc., 41 Great Valley Parkway, Malvern, P,A. 19355,
www.blacklightpower.com, ("Mills GUT").WO 96/042085, published 27 December
1996
WO 94/29873, published 22 December 1994, WO 92/10838, published 25 June 1992,
and WO 90/13126, published 1 November 1990, respectively, (hereinafter the
"Prior Mills Publicatiorn, ) address certain aspects associated with the
catalysis
of hydrogen atoms. Theoretical projections indicate, and experimental data
confirm, an energy release orders of magnitude greater than the energy
released
from combustion of hydrogen. The products of the catalytic process are oxygen
(released during production of hydrogen fuel from water by electrolysis or
reforming), and hydrino (a low energy state of hydrogen defined in the
following
discussion).
Since the pioneering work of Neils Bohr in 1913, physical models
of the hydrogen atom have prescribed that the total energy of the orbital
electron
is restricted to the energy states given by:
E -e 2 = 13.6 (eV)
E. g7ce 2ay n 2
where n is an integer, n 1, 2, 3,..., and where a,{ is.the Bohr radius of the
hydrogen atom, e is the charge of the electron, and % is the vacuum
permittivity.
The energy state corresponding to n=1 is said to be the "ground" state.
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An innovative mathematical formulation has been developed using
fundamental laws of physics, resulting in a closed form solution for the
hydrogen
atom along with a wide range of other physical phenomena (see, Mills GUT). The
Mills formulation predicts allowed stable energy states (n = 1, 'h, '/3, ...),
as well
as the excited integer states (n = 2, 3, 4, ...) for hydrogen. In Mills'
terminology,
a hydrogen atom in a fractional quantum state is called a"hydrino" (the
designation
for a hydrino of radius aXlp, where aH is the radius of the hydrogen atom for
n=1
and p is an integer, is H[aH/p]). A molecule consisting of two hydrogen atoms
in
the same fractional state is called a "dihydrino molecule". Energy transitions
from
n=1 to a hydrino state, or from a hydrino state to a lower hydrino state, are
not
spontaneously radiative, and must be catalyzed.
Hydrinos are hydrogen atoms having a binding energy given by the
equation
Binding Energy = 13.6 eV /(1 /p)Z
wherein p is an integer greater than 1. The binding energy of an atom, ion, or
molecule, also known as the ionization energy, is the energy required to
remove
one electron from the atom, ion or molecule. Ordinary atomic hydrogen is
characterized by a binding energy of 13.6 eV.
Hydrinos are formed by reacting hydrogen atoms with a catalyst
having a net enthalpy of reaction of about m*27.2 eV, where m is an integer.
This
catalytic reaction releases energy with a commensurate decrease in size of the
hydrogen atom to rõ=naH=aH/p. For example, the catalysis of H[aN] to H[ay2]
releases 40.8 eV, and the hydrogen radius decreases from aH to a,y/2. One such
catalytic system involves potassium. The second ionization energy of potassium
is 31.63 eV, and K+ releases 4.34 eV when it is reduced to K. The combination
of reactions K' to KZ+ and K+ to K, then, has the net enthalpy of reaction of
27.28
eV, where m = 1. The reaction is expressed by:
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27.28 eV + K+ + K+ + H[aHlp] K + K+ + H[aE,l(p+1)] +
[(p +1)Z -p2] * 13.6 eV
K+ K2+ , K+ + K+ + 27.28eV
Where the overall reaction is
H[aHlp] - H[aHl(p+ 1)] + [(p + 1)2 - p2] * 13.6 eV
The energy given off during catalysis is much greater than the
energy lost to the catalyst. Also, the energy released is large compared to
conventional chemical reactions. For example, when hydrogen and oxygen gases
undergo combustion to form water,
H2 (8) + '/2 02 (S) --. H20 (l)
the known enthalpy of formation of water is AH f=-286 kJ/mole or 1.48 eV per
hydrogen atom. By contrast, each (n = 1) hydrogen atom undergoing catalysis to
n='/2 releases a net energy of 40.8 eV. Moreover, further catalytic
transitions
may occur: n='/z,'/3, '/3--+'/4, '/a~'/s, and so on. Once catalysis begins,
hydrinos autocatalyze further in a process called disproportionation. This
mechanism is similar to that of an inorganic ion catalysis. Hydrino catalysis,
however, has a higher reaction rate than that of the inorganic ion catalyst
because
of the better match of the enthalpy to m-27.2 eV.
Thus, two mechanisms have been identified for catalysis of hydrogen.
According to a first mechanism, hydrogen catalysis proceeds via a coupled
reaction
of a hydrogen atom with a nearby ion or combination of ions (a catalyst)
having the
capability to absorb the energy required to effect the transition (a multiple
of 27.2
eV, which is equivalent to the potential energy for n=1). In this case, the
net
energy release is given by:
Energy Release =[(1 /n f)2 -(1 /n)Z] x 13.6 eV
According to a second mechanism, hydrogen catalysis proceeds via a
coupled reaction of two fractional state hydrogen atoms (hydrinos), ionizing
one of
the atoms and collapsing the other to a lower state (disproportionation). In
the case
of disproportionation with H[aH/2] as the catalyst, the energy release is
given by:
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Energy Release =[(1lnl)2 -(1/n;)2]x 13.6 eV - 54.4 eV
The total energy release in going from the "ground state" (n = 1) to a given
fractional state (n.f) is given by [(1/nf)2 - 11 x 13.6 eV. For example, the
energy
released in catalysis of a hydrogen atom from n=1 to n='/,o is 1,346 eV, or
910
times the combustion energy of 1.48 eV.
The energy release and new forms of matter resulting from hydrogen
catalysis have been observed for a broad range of processes and devices, from
electrolysis cells to gas vapor cells, as documented in Mills GUT and
WO 96/042085, published 27 December 1996. The experimental data have
demonstrated the production of energy consistent with predictions based on
the theory. However, these earlier devices have been limited in their
capability
to produce and sustain the conditions required for hydrogen catalysis in the
temperature range and scale needed for commercial applications. What is
needed is an improved power cell which provides for the release of energy by
hydrogen catalysis, and which may be adapted to commercial applications.
Energy Conversion Systems
Energy conversion systems generally require a power cell unit that
generates heat that can be used to heat air or boil water, which in turn can
be used
to generate electricity. Gas turbine engines, for example, are based on the
Brayton
cycle, wherein a gas is compressed in a compressor, heated, and then expanded
through a turbine to produce mechanical energy to operate the compressor and
an
attached load. Prior art in gas turbine cycles, as depicted in Figures 1 A - I
D,
includes primarily combustion based systems ranging from simple open cycle
engines to more complex cycles such as recuperated open cycles, and
recuperated
and intercooled closed cycles (G. J. Van Wylen, Thermodynanrtics, John Wiley &
Sons, 1963, pp. 322-332).
Gas turbine engines are in widespread use for power generation and motive
power applications, with the majority of units in operation based on onen
cycle
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engines burning natural gas or liquid fuels. Advances in materials and
manufacturing technology, and deployment of combined cycle units have led to
continuing increases in thermal efficiency and related reductions in fuel
consumption. However, gas turbines are typically limited to the use of
expensive
hydrocarbon-based fuels or liquid fuels.
Boilers are used to produce steam for industrial processes and space
heating, and to power steam turbines for electricity generation and motive
power
applications. Primary categories of boilers include re-circulating boilers
producing
saturated steam, boilers augmented with super-heaters if superheated steam is
required, and once-through boilers producing superheated steam. Boilers may be
powered by oil, natural gas, coal, wood, bio-mass or nuclear fuel.
Heaters are used in industrial processes and for space heating in residential,
commercial and industrial applications. Primary categories of heaters are
radiant
heaters, which provide heat through the radiation of thermal energy from a
high
temperature surface, and convection heaters, which provide heat by flowing a
gas
or liquid past heated surfaces. Heaters may be powered by oil, natural gas,
coal,
wood or biomass. Electric heater applications such as microwave and induction
heating are powered indirectly through the generation of electricity.
Considerable progress has been made in reducing emissions from turbines,
boilers and heaters. However, all combustion-based energy sources are subject
to
siting restrictions and environmental concerns resulting from combustion
product
emissions. Long-term energy source issues include global climatic impact,
availability, and stability of fuel supplies. There is therefore a need for a
mechanism to efficiently harness the energy output from an energy source that
minimizes global climatic impact, is widely available, and is comparatively
cost
effective.
What is needed are new energy conversion systems capable of harnessing
the power of hydrogen catalysis into more usable forms.
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Smnmarv of the Invention
The design of the present invention improves upon energy conversion
devices of the prior art to produce a power cell enabling the release of
energy by
hydrogen catalysis. The power cell of the invention may be adapted to
commercial
applications. Energy release by hydrogen catalysis is sufficient to enable the
use
of water as an energy source with essentially unlimited capacity, and with
minimal
environmental impact. Hydrogen catalysis power cells can be configured to
address all major energy consumption sectors through gas turbine, steam
boiler,
heater and direct conversion applications.
According to the present invention, methods and apparati are provided for
delivering thermal, mechanical or electrical power via the sustained, stable
and
controlled catalysis of hydrogen. Catalysis occurs within a hydrogen catalysis
power cell in the gas phase via the controlled contact of catalyst with atomic
hydrogen.
"Hydrogen catalysis", as meant herein, refers to (i) the reaction of a
hydrogen atom with a catalyst having a net enthalpy of reaction of about m=
27.21
eV, where m is an integer, which results in a hydrogen atom having a binding
energy greater than about 13.6 eV and the release of energy, or (ii) the
reaction of
two or more hydrogen atoms having a binding energy greater than about 13.6 eV,
which results in a net release of energy and at least one hydrogen atom having
a
binding energy higher than the initial binding energy of said hydrogen atom
before
the reaction.
A power cell is provided for generating heat based on hydrogen catalysis
and for transferring said generated heat to a working fluid. The power cell
comprises a heat transfer assembly and a delivery assembly. The heat transfer
assembly comprises at least one enclosed, vacuum-tight reaction chamber
containing a means for dissociating molecular hydrogen gas into atomic
hydrogen.
The delivery assembly is connected in fluid communication with the reaction
chamber for delivering hydrogen gas and vaporous catalyst for hydrogen
catalysis
to the heat transfer assembly. The delivery assembly comprises a catalyst
vessel
for generating vaporous catalyst for hydrogen catalysis, a source of hydrogen
gas,
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and a semi-permeable membrane assembly connected in fluid communication with
the hydrogen gas source and the heat transfer assembly. The membrane assembly
contains a semi-permeable membrane which permits the passage of hydrogen but
substantially inhibits the passage of vaporous catalyst therethrough. The
power cell
further comprises a means for regulating the temperature of the catalyst
vessel and
means for regulating the temperature surrounding the semi-permeable membrane.
The power cell of the invention may further comprise a means for passage
of working fluid in proximity with the reaction chamber to receive the heat
generated by the hydrogen catalysis reaction in the reaction chamber. The
power
cell of the invention may further comprise means for controlling heat transfer
from
the reaction chamber to said means for passage of working fluid in proximity
with
the reaction chamber.
The semi-permeable membrane assembly preferably comprises a collection
housing enclosing the semi-permeable membrane. The membrane is preferably
shaped to form a closed internal space within the collection housing with the
internal space being in communication with the hydrogen gas source. The
collection housing preferably has an inlet end and outlet end, with the outlet
end
connected in fluid communication with the heat transfer assembly so that
hydrogen
gas passing through the membrane and collected in the collection housing is
directed to the reaction chamber.
The means for regulating the temperature of the catalyst vessel in a power
cell of the invention preferably comprises a conduit for carrying a heated
working
fluid from the heat transfer assembly to the delivery assembly. The means for
regulating the temperature of the catalyst vessel may further comprise a
conduit for
returning a working fluid from the delivery assembly to the heat transfer
assembly.
The means for regulating the temperature surrounding the semi-permeable
membrane in a power cell of the invention preferably comprises similar means.
The power cell of the invention preferably comprises means for evacuating
the reaction chamber, means for terminating hydrogen catalysis within the
reaction
chamber, and/or means for initiating hydrogen catalysis within the reaction
chamber.
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A method is also provided for utilizing heat released from a hydrogen
catalysis reaction. The method comprises introducing hydrogen gas and vaporous
catalyst into a reaction chamber of a power cell. Hydrogen molecules of the
gas
are dissociated into hydrogen atoms. The method further comprises reacting
hydrogen atoms and catalyst in a reaction such that (i) the reaction of a
hydrogen
atom with a catalyst has a net enthalpy of reaction of about m=27.21 eV, where
m
is an integer, which results in a hydrogen atom having a binding energy
greater
than about 13.6 eV and the release of energy, or (ii) the reaction of two or
more
hydrogen atoms having a binding energy greater than about 13.6 eV results in a
net
release of energy and at least one hydrogen atom having a binding energy
higher
than the initial binding energy of said hydrogen atom before the reaction. The
method further comprises transferring released heat to a working fluid.
In a preferred method of the invention, the partial pressure of the hydrogen
gas in the reaction chamber is from about 50 millitorr to about 100 torr, and
the
partial pressure of catalyst in the reaction chamber is from about 50
millitorr to
about 100 torr.
The method of the invention preferably comprises a power cell comprising
a heat transfer assembly and a delivery assembly. The heat transfer assembly
comprises at least one enclosed, vacuum-tight reaction chamber containing a
means
for dissociating molecular hydrogen gas into atomic hydrogen. The delivery
assembly is connected in fluid communication with the reaction chamber for
delivering hydrogen gas. and vaporous catalyst for hydrogen catalysis to the
heat
transfer assembly. The delivery assembly comprises a catalyst vessel for
generating vaporous catalyst for hydrogen catalysis, a source of hydrogen gas,
and
a semi-permeable membrane assembly connected in fluid communication with the
hydrogen gas source and the heat transfer assembly. The membrane assembly
contains a semi-permeable membrane which permits the passage of hydrogen but
substantially inhibits the passage of vaporous catalyst therethrough. The
power cell
further comprises a means for regulating the temperature of the catalyst
vessel and
means for regulating the temperature surrounding the semi-permeable membrane.
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An energy conversion system is provided for converting thermal energy
released by hydrogen catalysis. The energy conversion system comprises a
hydrogen catalysis power cell as described above, a working fluid for
receiving the
heat released from hydrogen catalysis, and means for converting the heat in
the
working fluid to mechanical or electrical energy. The energy conversion system
of the invention preferably may further comprise means for balancing the heat
energy extracted by the working fluid with heat produced from hydrogen
catalysis
and consumed by said means for converting the heat in the working fluid to
mechanical or electrical energy.
An energy conversion system is provided where the means for balancing the
heat energy extracted by the working fluid with heat produced from hydrogen
catalysis and consumed by said means for converting the heat in the working
fluid
to mechanical or electrical energy comprises an automated control system.
An energy conversion system is provided wherein the control system
comprises means to control at least one of the rate of hydrogen catalysis, the
temperature of the working fluid, the heat capacity of the working fluid, the
amount
of heat delivered to the heat transfer assembly, the amount of heat taken from
the
heat transfer assembly, and the power consumed by the means for converting
heat
in the working fluid to mechanical or electrical energy.
Brief Description of the Drawings
Fig. lA is a schematic diagram illustrating an open cycle gas turbine
configuration of the prior art.
Fig. 1B is a schematic diagram illustrating a modified open cycle gas
turbine configuration of the prior art.
Fig. 1 C is a schematic diagram illustrating another modified open cycle gas
turbine configuration of the prior art.
Fig. 1D is a schematic diagram illustrating a closed cycle gas turbine
configuration of the prior art.
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Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating an embodiment of an energy
conversion system of the invention having a simple open cycle gas turbine and
heat
exchanger based on a hydrogen catalysis power cell.
Fig. 3 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a hydrogen catalysis
power cell of the invention.
Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating another embodiment of a hydrogen
catalysis power cell of the invention.
Fig. 5 illustrates a heat transfer assembly for a hydrogen catalysis power
cell of the invention, having a convection heat exchanger.
Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a reaction chamber of
a hydrogen catalysis power cell of the invention.
Fig. 7 illustrates a hydrogen permeable membrane for use in a delivery
assembly of a hydrogen catalysis power cell of the invention.
Fig. 8 illustrates, in cross-section, a semi-permeable membrane positioned
in a reaction chamber.
Fig. 9 illustrates, in partial cut-out, a catalyst vessel for use in a
delivery
assembly of a hydrogen catalysis power cell of the invention.
Fig. 10 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a hydrogen catalysis power
cell of the invention having a radiant heat exchanger-based heat transfer
assembly.
Fig. 11 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a hydrogen catalysis power
cell of the invention having a radiant heat exchanger-based heat transfer
assembly.
Fig. 12 is an enlarged view of a portion of the delivery assembly of Fig. 11.
Fig. 13 is a top plan view of the hydrogen catalysis power cell of Fig. 11.
Fig. 14 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a hydrogen catalysis power
cell of the invention employed as a boiler.
Description of the Invention
The hydrogen catalysis power cell of the invention may be a component of
an energy conversion system such as a gas turbine engine, steam boiler,
heater, or
other form of power utilization and conversion equipment. Some of the specific
design characteristics of the hydrogen catalysis power cells of the invention
are
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dependent upon the heat transfer requirements and other physical requirements
of
particular embodiments.
The hydrogen catalysis power cells of the subject invention, for generating
heat based on hydrogen catalysis and for transferring the generated heat to a
working fluid, generally include the following elements: (1) a heat transfer
assembly
comprising at least one enclosed, vacuum-tight reaction chamber; (2) means for
dissociating molecular hydrogen gas into atomic hydrogen; (3) a source of
hydrogen
gas; (4) a catalyst vessel for generating vaporous catalyst for hydrogen
catalysis; (5)
a semi-permeable membrane assembly connected in fluid communication with the
hydrogen gas source and the heat transfer assembly, having a semi-permeable
membrane permitting passage of hydrogen but substantially inhibiting the
passage
of vaporous catalyst therethrough; (6) means for regulating the temperature of
the
catalyst vessel; and (7) means for regulating the temperature surrounding the
semi-
permeable membrane.
The hydrogen catalysis power cell of the invention also preferably contains
(1) means for evacuating the reaction chamber and eliminating impurities from
the
reaction chamber and any connected subsystems; (2) means for initiating
hydrogen
catalysis within the reaction chamber; (3) means for terminating hydrogen
catalysis
within the reaction chamber; and (4) means to balance the heat removed by a
working fluid with the energy produced by hydrogen catalysis.
Energy conversion systems of the present invention comprise an embodiment
of a hydrogen catalysis power cell described above, as well as a means (such
as a
power converter) for utilizing or converting the heat received by a working
fluid to
mechanical or electrical power. An energy conversion system, as meant herein,
refers to an operation or operations wherein energy is made useful, such as
the
conversion of heat to mechanical energy to electricity.
Embod'unents of the present invention incorporating these common hydrogen
catalysis power cell elements are set forth in the following discussion.
Gas turbine engines constitute a major category for application of the
hydrogen catalysis power cell of the invention. The term "gas turbine system"
is
defined as any configuration of the class of systems for conversion of thermal
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energy to mechanical energy by compressing the gas (or working fluid), heating
it,
then expanding it using rotating compressors and turbines. A range of gas
turbine
configurations of the prior art are depicted in Figures 1 A through X D.
Fig. iA shows a simple open cycle system gas turbine having a rotating
compressor 10 with air inlet 12 and compressed air outlet 14 connecting
compressor
to a combustor 16 for heating compressed air (the working fluid)_ A flow
passage 18 delivers heated compressed air to a turbine 20, with the expanded
air and
combustion products then released to the atmosphere at the turbine exhaust 22.
A
shaft 24 powered by the turbine 20 provides mechanical energy to propel the
10 compressor 10 and the attached load 26.
A modification of the simple open cycle to improve thermal efficiency by
using the heated air and combustion products from the turbine exhaust to heat
air
from the compressor is shown in Fig. 1B. Air from the compressor 10 flows
through an outlet duct 14 and is heated in a heat exchanger 28 (recuperator)
by the
air and combustion products from the turbine exhaust 22 before flowing to the
combustor 16 via the recuperator compressed air outlet 30. The cooled turbine
exhaust air and combustion products as delivered to the atmosphere via the
recuperator exhaust 32.
Further improvement in thermal efficiency can be obtained by adding stages
to the compressor and turbine with intermediate cooling and heating as shown
in
Fig. IC. Air flows from the first stage compressor 10 through compressor
outlet
duct 14 and through a heat exchanger 28 (intercooler), losing heat to a
cooling fluid
entering from a cooling system supply line 34 (and exiting through a cooling
system
return line 36). Cooled air then flows through duct 33 to the second stage
compressor 40. Air flowing in the exhaust duct 42 from the first stage turbine
20
is heated in a second combustor 44 before flowing in the inlet duct 46 to the
second
stage turbine 48.
In addition to the open cycle turbine designs represented by the examples
above, gas turbines may be designed as a closed cycle, as exemplified in Fig.
ID,
using gases such as nitrogen or helium as the working fluid. In Fig_ ID, the
working fluid in exit duct 50 from the recuperator 52 is cooled in a heat
exchanger
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54 by a cooling fluid entering from a cooling system supply line 34 (and
exiting
through a cooling system return line 36), flowing back through air inlet 56 to
the
first stage compressor 10. Heat is added to the cycle in a heat exchanger 28
by a
heating fluid supplied through duct 58 from an external heat source 60 and
exiting
at a reduced temperature through external heat source return duct 62, thus
giving
up heat to the working fluid entering the heat exchanger 28 through duct 64
from
the recuperator 52 with the hot working fluid flowing through duct 66 to the
turbine
20.
Gas turbines can be deployed in a wide array of variations as exemplified in
Figures 1 A through 1 D. A required common element for all gas turbines is a
means
of adding heat to the compressed working fluid, either in a combustor or a
heat
exchanger. The present invention provides a means of adding heat to the
working
fluid, replacing the combustor(s) and/or heat exchanger(s) of the full range
of prior
art gas turbines.
In Fig, 2, a hydrogen catalysis power cell 90 according to the present
invention serves as the mechanism for providing heat to a working fluid in a
gas
turbine system. In addition to hydrogen catalysis power cells of the
invention, an
electrolytic gas cell, gas discharge cell, and plasma torch cell described in
Mills
Prior Publications (e. g. , U.S. Pat. Application Ser. No. 09/111,160, filed
July 7,
1998 at pages 42-56.) can be adapted to an energy conversion system. The
hydrogen catalysis power cell 90 receives compressed air from compressor 92
and
heats the air by transferring heat evolved from hydrogen catalysis reactions
occurring in the power cell 90. The heated air is then directed to a turbine
94 where
thermal energy may be converted to mechanical energy.
Fig. 3 illustrates an embodiment of a hydrogen catalysis power cell of the
invention that may be incorporated into an energy conversion system. The
hydrogen catalysis power cell 100 generally comprises a delivery assembly 102
and
a heat transfer assembly 104. The delivery assembly 102 supplies the raw
materials
(hydrogen gas and catalyst) under prescribed conditions of temperature and
pressure
to the heat transfer assembly 104. The hydrogen catalysis reactions take place
in
heat transfer assembly 104.
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The delivery assembly 102 is comprised of a hydrogen gas source 106
connected in fluid communication with a semi-penmeable membrane assembly 108.
a catalyst vessel 110, and a vacuum system 112. T't-e delivery assembly 102 is
preferably enclosed within a housing 114.
The hydrogen gas supply source 106 may be a tank containing hydrogen gas
under pressure or a vessel that provides hydrogen gas as a product of the
electrolytic
dissociation of water, for example. Hydrogen gas supply line 116 delivers
hydrogen
to semi-permeable membrane assembly 108. The semi-permeable membrane
assembly 108, containing a semi-permeable membrane 109 for regulating passage
of hydrogen gas, assures the delivery of pure hydrogen via conduit 118 to the
heat
transfer assembly 104. The semi-permeable membrane assembly 108 is discussed
in more detail below. The regulation of hydrogen gas partial pressure
delivered to
the heat transfer assembly 104 is also discussed in more detail below.
The catalyst vessel 110 provides vaporous catalyst to the heat transfer
assembly 104. According to one embodiment, the catalyst may comprise any
eletrocatalytic ions or couple(s) given in the Tables of the Prior Mills
Publications
(e.g., Table 4 of WO 90/13126, published 1 November 1990 and pages 25-46
and 80-108 of WO 94/29873, published 22 December 1994) A preferred catalyst is
potassium ions. The catalyst vessel 110 operates to heat solid porassium
iodide
catalyst to a vaporous state. The regulation of catalyst vessel 110
temperature, and
hence the partial pressure of the vaporous catalyst delivered to the beat
t.ransfer
assembly 104, is discussed in more detail below.
The vacuum system 112 operates to evacuate the contents of the delivery
assembly conduit(s) and the heat trmfer assembly 104. The vacuum system 112
may be m fluid comnnuaication with a quencliing system 120 which provides the
means for terminating the hydrogen catalysis reactions.
The vacuum system 112 preferably comprises a pump connected in fluid
communication with the reaction chambers 122. Alternatively, a cryogenic pump
or getter can be employed.
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The quenching system 120 preferably comprises a source of inert gas, such
as helium, neon or argon, in fluid communication with the heat transfer
assembly.
Inert gas operates to quench the hydrogen catalysis reactions, terminating the
heat-
generating hydrogen catalysis reactions.
Alternatively, the hydrogen catalysis reactions may be quenched by
removing hydrogen or ion catalyst. Ion catalyst can be removed by lowering the
temperature of the catalyst vessel, causing it to condense. The hydrogen can
be
removed by closing the hydrogen control valve or decreasing the temperature of
the
semi-permeable membrane. Hydrogen and catalyst may also be rapidly pumped
away via vacuum or cryogenic pump. A getter may also be employed to remove ion
catalyst and/or hydrogen.
Heat is generated in the heat transfer assembly 104 by virtue of hydrogen
catalysis reactions taking place therein. The heat transfer assembly 104 is
generally
comprised of at least one, and preferably a plurality of, reaction chambers
122
wherein the hydrogen catalysis reactions occur. The reaction chambers 122 are
in
fluid communication with the delivery assembly 102. In Fig. 3, the delivery
assembly 102 is connected in fluid communication with a header 146, the header
146 in turn is connected in fluid communication with the reaction chambers
122.
A working fluid is passed through the heat transfer assembly 104 via inlet
124. The
working fluid exits through outlet 126. Heat may be transferred from the
reaction
chambers 122 to the working fluid by radiation, conduction, and/or convection
mechanisms. The heat transfer assembly 104 is contained within a shell 128.
In an embodiment of a hydrogen catalysis power cell employing a gaseous
working fluid, such as air, a portion of the heated working fluid may be
directed
from the heat transfer assembly 104 to the delivery assembly 102 in order to
maintain the temperature of the delivery assembly 102. Working fluid having
circulated throughout the delivery assembly 102 may be returned to the heat
transfer
assembly 104. As shown in Fig. 3, heated working fluid is directed to the
delivery
assembly 102 via conduit 130 and returned to the heat transfer assembly 104
via
conduit 132. A temperature sensing means (not shown), such as a thermocouple,
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may be positioned within the delivery assembly 102 for purposes of temperature
control.
The delivery assembly housing 114 and the heat transfer assembly shell 128
are preferably made of stainless steel. The conduits (i. e. , 116,130) are
preferably
ducts and are preferably fabricated from stainless steel tubing. Insulation
materials
(not shown), such as refractory oxides, may be placed around any component of
the
hydrogen catalysis power cell to minimize heat transfer losses.
Another embodiment of the hydrogen catalysis power cell of Fig. 3 is shown
in Fig. 4. In Fig. 4, the semi-permeable membrane assembly 108, the catalyst
vessel 110, and the vacuum system 112, are independently connected in fluid
communication with the heat transfer assembly 104 via (respectively) conduits
134,
136, and 138.
As shown in Figs. 3 and 4, valves 152, 153, 154, 155, and 156 may be
positioned at any location along delivery conduits for flow control of the
contents
therein. For example, valve 154 controls the flow of catalyst vapor to the
heat
transfer assembly 104. Valves 151 and 154 may be closed either during the
operation of the vacuum system 112 to clean the system and evacuate the
reaction
chambers 122 or during the introduction of quenching gas from the quenching
system 120. The operation of any valve may be in concert with a control
system,
such as an automated system providing a control feedback loop.
As also shown in both Figs. 3 and 4, a starter system 140 may be connected
to the heat transfer assembly 104. The starter system operates to deliver heat
to the
heat transfer assembly 104 by heating the working fluid entering the heat
transfer
assembly through inlet 140. The added heat promotes the reaction rates of the
hydrogen catalysis reactions until enough heat is evolved in the reaction
chambers
122 of the heat transfer assembly 104 to sustain the catalytic reactions.
The starter system 140 may rely upon the combustion of hydrogen or natural
gas, for example, as a means for introducing heat to the interior 142 of the
heat
transfer assembly 104. In such case, conduit 141 supplies hydrogen or natural
gas
to the interior 142 of the heat transfer assembly 104 and conduit 143
introduces
oxygen to the same space. A burner (not shown) located on the interior 142 of
the
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heat transfer assembly 104 can ignite the combustion of the hydrogen or
natural gas.
Valves 144 and 145 regulate the delivery of hydrogen and oxygen. Heated
combustion product exits through outlet 126.
As an alternative to providing heat by combustion, the starter system 140
may alternatively comprise resistive heater elements which lead into the
interior 142
of heat transfer assembly 104 and surround and contact the reaction chambers
122.
Fig. 5 illustrates an embodiment of a heat transfer assembly 104 comprising
a header 146 and a plurality of reaction chambers 122. The reaction chambers
122
are in fluid communication with the header 146, which in turn is in fluid
communication with the delivery assembly 102 (not shown in Fig. 5). The heat
transfer assembly 104 of Fig. 5 illustrates a convection heat exchanger
embodiment
of the heat transfer assembly. The shell 128 may be of any geometry, as would
be
understood by one skilled in the art, to enable a desired residence time for a
working fluid receiving heat from the heat transfer assembly and a shell that
is
durable under the temperature and pressures achieved in the heat transfer
assembly
104 as dictated by application demands.
Hydrogen gas and vaporous catalyst are delivered to the reaction chambers
122 via header 146. The hydrogen catalysis reactions are preferably maintained
such that the partial pressure of the catalyst, e. g. , potassium iodide, is
from about
50 millitorr to about 100 torr, and most preferably at about 200 millitorr and
the
partial pressure of hydrogen is from about 50 millitorr to about 100 torr, and
most
preferably at about 200 millitorr. Working fluid does not come into contact
with the
interior (not shown) of the header 146 or the interior of the reaction
chambers 122
(not shown in Fig. 5).
A working fluid enters the heat transfer assembly 104 at inlet 124, flows
around the reaction chambers 122 while absorbing heat evolved through the
reaction
chambers 122, and exits the heat transfer assembly 104 via outlet 126. Baffle
plates
positioned in the interior 142 of the heat transfer assembly (not shown) may
be
employed to increase the residence time of the working fluid in the heat
transfer
assembly 104. The heat transfer assembly 104 is anchored to the shell 128 by
such
means known to one skilled in the art, such that heat transfer losses are
minimized
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and interior 142 space is maximized while providing adequate support for the
heat
transfer assembly under the conditions demanded of a particular application.
An
example of an anchoring means may be a metal bracket (not shown) extending
from
the header 146 to the shell 128.
In the embodiment of a heat transfer assembly shown in Fig. 5, the reaction
chambers 122 are shown as having, preferably, a generally cylindrical shape
with
one end 148 closed and an opposite end 150 in fluid communication with the
header
146.
Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a reaction chamber 122 taken along line
6-6 of Fig. 5. The reaction chamber 122 is comprised of an inner chamber wall
170
defining a reaction chamber interior 172 and an outer structural wall 174
having an
exterior surface 176 and an interior surface 178. The hydrogen catalysis
reactions
occur within the interior 172 of the reaction chamber 122. The structural wall
174
and the chamber wall 170 are preferably separated by an evacuated annulus 180.
The annulus 180 serves to retard heat transfer from the reaction chamber
interior
172 to the working fluid flowing around and against the exterior surface 176
of the
structural wall 174. The annulus 180 retards heat transfer so reaction
conditions in
the reaction chamber interior can be maintained. The interior surface 178 of
the
structural wall 174 may be lined with a coating or film (not shown) to promote
heat
transfer across the structural wall 174 to the working fluid.
The reaction chamber interior 172 contains a catalyst to facilitate the
dissociation of molecular hydrogen gas to atomic hydrogen. The hydrogen
dissociation catalyst preferably takes the form of a plurality of metal
surfaces 182.
The metal surfaces 182 must be maintained at an elevated temperature to
facilitate
the dissociation of molecular hydrogen gas into hydrogen atoms. Preferably,
the
metal surfaces are maintained at a temperature of at least about 700 C, but a
temperature in the range of about 600 C to about 800 C is generally
sufficient.
The surfaces 182 which catalyze molecular hydrogen dissociation into hydrogen
atoms are comprised of a hydrogen dissociation catalyst. Such dissociating
catalysts
include, for example, noble metals such as palladium and platinum, refractory
metals such as molybdenum and tungsten, transition metals such as nickel and
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titanium, inner transition metals such as niobium and zirconium, and other
materials
listed in the Prior Mills Publications. The hydrogen dissociating catalyst is
preferably made from pure nickel or pure titanium. The metal surfaces 182 are
also
preferably arranged in a lattice structure as shown in Figure 6,to promote an
increased surface area for the contact leading to dissociation. The chamber
wall 170
is preferably made of the same metals as metal surface 182, that is, nickel or
titanium.
Alternatively, the catalyst for dissociating molecular hydrogen gas to atomic
hydrogen may be deposited or coated onto a substrate surface positioned in the
reaction chamber interior 172.
The structural wall 174 is designed to withstand the comparatively high
external pressures and flow that would otherwise pose a structural threat to
the
chamber wall 170 surrounding an evacuated or very low pressure reaction
chamber
interior 172. The structural wall 174 may be made from stainless steel, or any
material offering the structural strength and favorable heat transfer
properties
necessary in the heat transfer assembly 104.
The hydrogen-permeable membrane of the semi-permeable membrane
assembly 108 is shown in more detail in Fig. 7. A semi-permeable membrane 109
is connected in fluid communication with hydrogen supply conduit 116. Membrane
109 is permeable to hydrogen gas but not the vaporous catalyst which catalyzes
the
hydrogen catalysis reactions in the reaction chambers 122. The semi-permeable
membrane is preferably cylindrical in shape and closed at one end 190. The
opposite open end 191 of membrane 109 is preferably welded to the conduit 116.
The membrane is preferably made from nickel or palladium-coated tantalum. The
membrane 109 has an internal bore (not shown) running longitudinally along the
membrane. Hydrogen gas from supply conduit 116 passes through the semi-
permeable membrane 109.
The semi-permeable membrane 109 is essentially impermeable to hydrogen,
except when heated. The permeability of the membrane 109 to hydrogen is
controlled by regulating the temperature of the membrane 109.
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The semi-permeable membrane assembly 108 further comprises a collection
housing 194 shrouding the membrane. The collection housing 194 is secured in
an
air-tight fashion at an inlet end 196 to the hydrogen supply line 116. The
interior
space of the housing 194 is in fluid communication with outlet conduit 198 at
an
opposite end 199 of the housing 194. Hydrogen gas supplied through conduit 116
passes through the semi-permeable membrane 109 and is collected within the
collection housing 194. Hydrogen flow into the collection housing 194 is
controlled
by a flow regulator (not shown), such as a valve. The hydrogen gas exits
assembly
108 through outlet conduit 198. Conduit 198 supplies hydrogen gas to the heat
transfer assembly 104. Semi-permeable membrane 109 acts to prevent vaporous
catalyst from the reaction chambers 122, or other impurities, from migrating
into
the hydrogen supply conduit 116.
Alternatively, a plurality of semi-permeable membranes 109 may be
contained within a collection housing 194.
An alternative embodiment of a semi-permeable membrane assembly in
relation with a reaction chamber is shown in Fig. 8. In Fig. 8, a semi-
permeable
cylindrical membrane 111 connected to hydrogen supply line 117 is positioned
directly within reaction chamber 123. Hydrogen gas migrates through the
membrane and dissociates on metal surfaces 183 surrounding the reaction
chamber
interior. The semi-permeable membrane 109 precludes vaporous catalysts present
in the reaction chamber from diffusing into the hydrogen supply line 117.
Since the
temperature of the membrane is equal to that of the reaction chamber, the
hydrogen
flow rate is controlled by a hydrogen flow regulator, such as valve 150 in
Figs. 3
and 4.
A typical catalyst vessel for supplying vaporous catalyst for hydrogen
catalysis is shown in Fig. 9. The catalyst vessel 110 comprises a bottom
wa11205
and side wall 202 enclosing a catalyst chamber 204. The catalyst chamber 204
is
closed by a cap 207. The cap is penetrated by a removable fill plug 206 and an
outlet 208 for passage of vapor phase catalyst. A solid catalyst may be
introduced
to the interior 204 of the vessel through the removable fill plug 206. The
solid
catalyst is heated in the vessel to the vapor phase. The vaporous catalyst
exits the
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vessel through an outlet 208. The vaporous catalyst is supplied to reaction
chambers
122.
The side wall 202 of the catalyst vessel may contain a plurality of fins 212.
The fins 212 promote heat transfer between the catalyst chamber interior 204
and
the surrounding environment of the delivery assembly 102. Optional heater
elements 214, such as resistive heater elements surrounding the vessel side
wall 202,
may also be employed to provide heat to chamber 204 and to regulate the
temperature therein. A thermocouple (not shown) may be located in the chamber
204 to provide temperature control.
The temperature of the catalyst vessel 112 is preferably controlled such that
the catalyst vessel is maintained at the lowest temperature within the
delivery
assembly 102, precluding condensation of catalyst vapor on any cooler surfaces
within the delivery assembly 102.
An alternative embodiment of a hydrogen catalysis power cell of the
invention is shown in Fig. 10. The hydrogen catalysis power cell 300 comprises
a
delivery assembly 302 and a heat transfer assembly 304. The heat transfer
assembly
304 of Fig. 10 illustrates a radiant heat exchanger embodiment of a heat
transfer
assembly. The delivery assembly 302 and heat transfer assembly 304 are
separated
by a radiation shield 306. The delivery assembly 302 comprises a hydrogen gas
supply source 308, a semi-permeable membrane assembly 310, catalyst vessel
312,
and a vacuum system 314 which are arranged, and function, as previously
discussed
with respect to the delivery assembly 102. The corresponding elements of
delivery
assembly 102 comprise the hydrogen supply 106, the semi-permeable membrane
assembly 108, catalyst vessel I 10, and vacuum system 112 shown in Figs. 3, 4,
7,
and 9. The delivery assembly 302 and the heat transfer assembly 304 of Fig. 10
are
both housed within a shell 316.
The heat transfer assembly 304 comprises at least one reaction chamber 326.
The heat transfer assembly also comprises at least one heat transfer conduit
328 for
the purpose of directing passage of the working fluid through the heat
transfer
assembly. The heat transfer conduit 328 preferably directs the working fluid
within
close proximity of the reaction chrnabers 326. The reaction chamber 326 is in
f17=id
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communication with the delivery assembly 302 through conduit 330. The reaction
chamber 326 has the same basic construction as described for the reaction
chamber
of Figs 5 and 6, except that reaction chamber 326 has opposite closed ends 327
and
329. The reaction chamber 326 may not require an outer structural wall since
working fluid is confined within heat transfer conduit 328. The delivery
assembly
302 is connected in fluid communication to the reaction chamber 326 at a point
along the length of the reaction chamber 326 via conduit 330.
As an alternative to the arrangement shown in Figure 10, the semi-permeable
assembly 310, the catalyst vessel 312 and the vacuum system 314 may be
individually connected to the reaction chamber 326. The reaction chamber 326
is
preferably aligned spatially parallel to the heat transfer conduit 328 to
promote heat
transfer.
A working fluid, such as compressed air from a compressor, enters the heat
transfer assembly via inlet 332, flows within heat transfer conduit 328, and
exits via
outlet 334. The working fluid does not contact the interior space 336 of the
heat
transfer assembly 304, which is evacuated by pump 370 connected in fluid
communication with the heat transfer assembly 304. Heat evolved from hydrogen
catalysis reactions occurring within reaction chamber 326 radiates to heat
transfer
conduit 328 and is conducted through the wall of the transfer conduit to the
working
fluid therein.
In the embodiment shown in Fig. 10, temperature control of the delivery
assembly 302 is effectuated by the transfer via radiation of heat evolved from
the
hydrogen catalysis reactions occurring within reaction chamber 326. The
transfer
of heat from the transfer assembly 304 to the delivery assembly 302 is
regulated by
radiation shield 306. Radiation shield 306 is comprised of a stationary
grating 338
and a movable grating 340, which is movable with respect to grating 338. An
actuator 342 connected to movable grating 340 governs the movement of grating
340.
The stationary grating 338 and movable grating 340 are situated in a parallel
fashion. Preferably, the movable grating is slidable on top of the stationary
grating
338. The stationary grating 338 and the movable grating 340 each contain a
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plurality of openings 344. Actuator 342, located on the exterior of the shell
316
permits the movable grating 340 to slide along the stationary grating 338 in a
back-
and-forth motion. The radiation shield 306 is considered "open" when the
apertures
344 of both the movable grating 340 and the stationary grating 338 are
congruently
aligned or partially aligned in congruent relation. The radiation shield is
"closed"
when the apertures 344 of the movable grating 340 and the stationary grating
338
are completely incongruous. The stationary grating 338 and the movable grating
340 are preferably made from high temperature stainless steel alloys or
refractory
metals.
Alternatively, the radiation shield may comprise at least one vane (not
shown) extending continuously along a rotatable axis parallel to the heat
transfer
conduit 328. The vane may pivot between "open" and "closed" positions upon the
movement of the axis which may be pivoted by an actuator located on the
exterior
of the shell 316.
Radiant heat transfer from the reaction chamber 326 to the heat transfer
conduit 328 is similarly controlled by a radiation shield 350. Radiation
shield 350
comprises an apertured stationary grating 352 and an apertured movable grating
354. An actuator 356 connected to movable grating 354 governs the movement of
grating 354. The radiation shield 350 operates in the same fashion as
radiation
shield 306 described above. Radiation shield 350 may alternatively comprise at
least one rotatable vane as described above.
An alternative embodiment of a hydrogen catalysis power cell of the
invention employing a radiant heat exchanger-based heat transfer assembly is
shown
in Fig. 11. The hydrogen catalysis power cell 400 comprises a delivery
assembly
402 connected in fluid communication with a heat transfer assembly 404. The
delivery assembly 402 comprises a plurality of catalyst vessels 406 and semi-
permeable membrane assemblies 408.
A portion of the delivery assembly 402 is shown in enlarged fashion, in Fig.
12. Each semi-permeable membrane assembly 408 and catalyst vessel 406 (both
shown schematically) is respectively connected in fluid communication with a
reaction chamber 410 of the heat transfer assembly 404. A hydrogen supply
source
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412 supplies hydrogen gas to a header 414 via a conduit 415. The header 414 in
turn is connected in fluid communication with semi-permeable membrane
assemblies
408 via conduits 416. A quenching system 470 is connected in fluid
communication
with reaction chamber 410 via conduit 472. The semi-permeable membrane
assembly 408, catalyst vessel 406, and quenching system 470 are connected in
fluid
communication with reaction chamber 410 via a header 474 and conduit 476. The
header 474 collects hydrogen gas and vaporous catalyst and delivers them to
the
reaction chamber 410. The catalyst vessels 406 and semi-permeable membrane
assemblies 408 function as discussed above with respect to catalyst vessel 110
and
semi-permeable membrane assembly 108.
As shown in Fig. 11, the heat transfer assembly 404 comprises a plurality
of heat transfer conduits 420 positioned within interior 422 of the heat
transfer
assembly 404, in parallel fashion with the reaction chambers 410. A working
fluid
enters a heat transfer conduit 420 via inlets 424 and exits via outlets 426.
Alternatively, working fluid entering the hydrogen catalysis power cell 400
may be
delivered to a header, which in turn opens to individual inlets 424. The heat
transfer conduits 420 and reaction chambers 410 are preferably positioned in
alternating fashion as shown in Fig. 12. The heat transfer conduits 420 and
reaction
chambers 410 operate as discussed above with respect to heat transfer conduit
328
and reaction chamber 326.
Heat released in the reaction chambers 410 is conducted through an outer
wall 430 of the reaction chamber and radiated to the heat transfer conduit
420, then
absorbed by the working fluid therein.
In a preferred embodiment of the hydrogen catalysis power cell 400, a
plurality of radiation shields 440 are rotatable about an axis running
parallel to the
heat transfer conduits 420 and reaction chambers 410. The radiation shields
440
limit heat losses from the reaction chambers 410 to the interior 422 of the
power cell
400 and the heat transfer conduits 420 during start-up of the system when the
temperature within the reaction chambers 410 must reach between about 600 C
to
about 800 C. Each radiation shield is connected to a central shaft 442 via
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connecting rods 444_ The central shaft 442 may be manipulated from the
exterior
of the hydrogen catalysis power cell 400 to open or close the radiation
shields 440.
A top plan view of the hydrogen catalysis power cell of Fig. 11 is shown in
Fig. 13. As can be seen in Fig. 13, "open" radiation shields 440 are aligned
perpendicular to the rows of reaction chambers 410 and heat transfer conduits
420.
In Fig. 13, the reaction chambers 410 and heat transfer conduits 420 are
situated in
orderly rows, but any positional arrangement is appropriate, limited only by
the
ability to effectively transfer heat to the working fluid.
The hydrogen catalysis power cell 400 is preferably enclosed within a shell
450, and particularly bearing insulation (not shown) to minimize heat losses
to the
exterior of the shell 450. As noted above with respect to the discussion of
Figs. 3
and 4, the delivery assembly 402 may be separate and apart from the heat
transfer
assembly 404, so long as both are in fluid communication.
Regulation of temperature in the delivery assembly 402 to control the
penneability of the membrane in the semi-permeable membrane assembly 408 and
the production of vaporous catalyst in the catalyst vessel 406 follows those
means
previously discussed with respect to Figs. 3, 4, and 10. Means for initiating
the
hydrogen catalysis reactions in the reaction chambers 410 (not shown) and
means
for terminating the hydrogen catalysis reactions in the reaction chambers (not
shown) may be provided as set forth in the discussions above.
An embodiment of a hydrogen catalysis power cell of the invention
employing a recirculating boiler-based heat transfer assembly is shown in Fig.
14.
A hydrogen catalysis power cell 500 comprises a delivery assembly 502
connected
in fluid communication with a heat transfer assembly 504. The delivery
assembly
502 comprises a hydrogen supply source 505, catalyst vessel 506 and a semi-
permeable membrane assembly 508. The catalyst vessel 506 and semi-permeable
membrane assembly 508 fanction as set forth in the discussion above with
respect
to catalyst vessel 110 and semi-permeable membrane assembly 108.
The heat transfer assembly 504 comprises a plurality of reaction chambers
510, which may be connected in fluid communication to the delivery assembly
502
via a conduit 512 and a header 514. A hydrogen gas source 505 provides
hydrogen
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to the semi-permeable membrane assembly 508. The header 514 receives hydrogen
gas from the semi-permeable membrane assembly 508 and vaporous catalyst from
the catalyst vesse1506 and supplies both to the reaction chambers 510. The
reaction
chambers 510 are constructed, and function, as set forth above in the
discussion of
reaction chamber 122.
The heat transfer assembly 504 further comprises an interior space 520
defined by sidewalls 522 and 523, reaction chamber sheet 524, and a top
section
526. The reaction chambers 510 penetrate into the interior 520 through
reaction
chamber sheet 524, which secures the reaction chambers 510. Hence, sheet 524
functions as a tube sheet to support reaction chambers 510.
The interior 520 of the hydrogen catalysis power cel1500 contains the means
to transport working fluid (e.g., water) through the heat transfer assembly
504 and
means to separate liquid and vapor phases of the working fluid to ensure that
only
steam leaves the hydrogen catalysis power cel1500.
The means to transport water include feed conduit 530 and, preferably, a
perforated ring header 531 (shown in partial cross-section) connected in fluid
communication with feed conduit 530 which supplies water to the interior 520.
A
downcomer 532 directs the water along a baffle 534. The baffle 534 preferably
runs
continuously along a substantial length of the reaction chambers 510. Water is
then
directed into contact with the reaction chambers 510.
Heat released by hydrogen catalysis reactions within the reaction chambers
510 is conducted through the wall of the reaction chambers 510 and absorbed by
the
water, causing the water to boil, thus producing steam. Rising steam is
preferably
contacted against a means for separating steam from water vapor, such as swirl
vanes 540. Steam is preferably further separated in a dryer 542, then exits
the
hydrogen catalysis power cell 500 via outlet 544. Steam, containing the heat
energy
converted from energy released from hydrogen catalysis, may thereafter be
converted to kinetic energy of a rotbr, for example, in an energy conversion
system.
Regulation of temperature in the delivery assembly 502 to control the
permeability of the membrane in the semi-permeable membrane assembly 408 and
the production of vaporous catalyst in the catalyst vesse1406 follows those
means
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previously discussed with respect to Figs. 3, 4, and 10. Means for initiating
the
hydrogen catalysis reactions in the reaction chambers 510 (not shown) and
means
for terminating the hydrogen catalysis reactions in the reaction chambers 510
(not
shown) may be provided as set forth in the discussions above.
In energy conversion systems of the present invention, the power that can
be extracted or converted from a heated working fluid is dependent upon
regulation
of the flow rate of the working fluid, the temperature of the working fluid,
and the
quantity of heat absorbed by the working fluid. The quantity of heat made
available
to the working fluid may be controlled by regulating the rate of hydrogen
catalysis.
The rate of hydrogen catalysis may be controlled by regulating the vapor
pressure
of the catalyst (e.g., controlling the temperature of the catalyst vessel), by
regulating the vapor pressure of hydrogen (e.g., by controlling the flow rate
of
hydrogen gas and/or controlling the temperature of the semi-permeable
membrane),
and controlling the dissociation of molecular hydrogen in the reaction chamber
(e. g. ,
by controlling the temperature within the reaction chamber or introducing
controlled
amounts of inert gas in the reaction chamber).
An energy conversion system of the invention comprises a hydrogen
catalysis power cell as described above, a working fluid for receiving the
heat
released from hydrogen catalysis, and means for converting the heat in the
working
fluid to mechanical or electrical energy. It is understood that heat in the
working
fluid may be converted to a variety of energy forms before ultimately being
converted to mechanical or electrical energy.
The energy conversion system of the present invention further comprises a
control system such as an automated computer-controlled monitoring and
actuating
system with feedback to balance the flow of energy (or power). "Balance" the
flow
of energy refers to maximizing a desired energy output in view of efficiency
concerns, energy demands, and cost considerations. The flow of energy consists
of
power generation, power transfer, and power consumption. Power generation
comprises hydrogen catalysis. Power transfer comprises power removed by the
working fluid (heat transfer medium) and delivered to the load. Power
consumption comprises utilization or converter loads (such as space and
process
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heating loads) and mechanical loads (such as turbine engines and turbine
generators).
The control system is capable of monitoring the power flow by measuring
parameters in each stage of the energy conversion flow and altering the flows
to
achieve a desired power balance. Means to control the rate of hydrogen
catalysis
are described above. The power flow of the heat transfer assembly may be
controlled by controlling the temperature of the heat transfer medium, the
pressure
of a gaseous heat transfer medium, the flow rate of the heat transfer medium,
the
residence time of the heat transfer medium in the heat transfer assembly, the
heat
capacity of the heat transfer medium, the amount of heat recuperated from the
load
and added to the heat transfer medium, or heat diverted to or from the heat
transfer
assembly. In the latter case, for example, gas turbine baffles may divert
compressed
air from a compressor to increase or decrease the percentage of the
compressor's
output to the heat transfer assembly versus that directed to the turbine
directly.
Power consumption by the load may be controlled by increasing or
decreasing the load, as exemplified by increasing or decreasing the thermal,
mechanical, or power line load by controlling parameters such as heat transfer
rates,
turbine speeds, and turbine temperatures and pressures. Sensors for parameters
such as temperature, pressure, flow rate, turbine shaft speed and torque, and
methods and apparatus to control the flow of the heat transfer medium around
or
through the heat transfer assembly, and to control the power consumed in the
load,
comprise those methods and apparati generally known in the art of power
engineering.
The invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing
from the spirit or essential characteristics thereof. The present embodiments
are
therefore to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not
restrictive, the scope
of the invention being indicated by the appended claims rather than by the
foregoing
description; and all changes which come within the meaning and range of
equivalency of the claims are therefore intended to be embraced therein.
