Molten Metal Reactors and Processes

Abstract

A molten metal reactor comprising at least the following components a) through c): a) a reactor vessel comprising a molten metal bath, b) an injection assembly, and c) a product removal assembly.

Description

BACKGROUND

Molten metal reactors, and processes that use the same, are prone to the build-up of a highly decomposed carbon-based material (or coke) inside injection nozzles, and the build-up of metal oxides (slag) within the reactor, typically due to the leakage of oxygen into the reactor. Such reactors also allow for the dissipation of energy or heat, required to maintain the molten metal bath, away from the reactor. Thus, there is considerable waste of resources and energy in these reactors, and other reactor inefficiencies, such as, for example, high surface tension in a molten metal bath, flow issues and gas separation issues. There is a need for more efficient molten metal reactors and related processes that minimize one or more of the issues associated with conventional reactors. There is a further need for such reactors and processes to produce carbon materials, such as, for example, a catenated carbon material.

U.S. Pat. No. 7,922,993 discloses a method for producing carbon nanostructures that includes injecting acetylene gas into a reactant liquid. The injected acetylene molecules are disclosed as maintaining contact with the reactant liquid for a period of time, sufficient to break the carbon-hydrogen bonds in at least some of the acetylene molecules, and place the liberated carbon ions in an excited state. The liberated carbon ions, in the excited state, traverse a surface of the reactant liquid and enter a collection area, containing surfaces to collect the carbon nanostructures. See abstract. FIG. 1 depicts an apparatus to produce spherical carbon nano structures (column 3, lines 65-67). FIG. 2 depicts an apparatus showing the relationship between the reactant liquid bath, the collection chamber, the loading chamber, and the collection structure (column 4, lines 1-6). See also FIG. 3. Commercial grade acetylene (comprising approximately 48% acetylene and 52% acetone) was injected in the experimental examples (see, for example, column 11, lines 9-12, Examples 1 and 2). An argon purge gas was also used (see, for example, column 6, lines 27-30; and Examples 1 and 2). See also U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,263,037; 7,901,653 and 7,550,128.

U.S. Pat. No. 8,563,501 discloses a method for positioning an effective amount of a thermal target material at a treatment site of a patient. The thermal target material includes carbon molecules preferably in a carrier fluid. See abstract. FIG. 1 depicts the apparatus to produce spherical carbon nanostructures that may be employed in a thermal target material (see column 3, lines 58-61). FIG. 2 depicts an apparatus for producing carbon nanostructures, and shows the relationship between a reactant liquid bath, a collection chamber, a loading chamber, and a collection structure in position to collect carbon nano structures (see column 3, lines 62-67). See also FIG. 3. The carbon bearing feed material may include acetylene, and the carbon molecules included generally spherical carbon nanostructures (see claim 4). See also column 9, lines 23 to 26; and Examples 1 and 2, where commercial grade acetylene was used. An argon purge gas can be used (see, for example, column 6, lines 52-54; and Examples 1 and 2). See also U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,299,014 and 8,071,534.

U.S. Pat. No. 9,133,033 discloses a method for isolating carbon atoms as carbide anions below a surface of a reactant liquid. The carbide anions are then enabled to escape from the reactant liquid to a collection area, where carbon nanostructures may form. A carbon structure produced in this fashion is disclosed as including at least one layer made up of hexagonally arranged carbon atoms. See abstract. FIG. 1 depicts an apparatus (see column 3, lines 33-34). FIG. 2 depicts an end view of an outlet end of the reaction chamber shown in FIG. 1 (see column 3, lines 35-36). FIGS. 3 and 5 depict collection chambers (see column 3, lines 37-38 and 42-43). FIG. 6 depicts a test apparatus used to produce carbon nanostructures (see column 3, lines 44-46). In reference to FIG. 6, once the collection area was purged with argon gas, methane was injected through input 614 at a rate of approximately four liters per minute, between thirty and forty-eight hours. Thereafter, acetylene gas and motor oil were also pumped through conduit 604. See column 11, lines 9-13. See also U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,815,886; 7,815,885; 7,550,128 and 7,563,426. See also U.S. Publication 2006/0008403.

U.S. Pat. No. 7,814,846 discloses a method for producing deposition conditions in a collection area above a reactant liquid containing one or more catalyst metals. The reactant liquid is maintained under conditions, in which atoms of the catalyst metal may escape from the reactant liquid into the collection area. A suitable carrier gas is directed to traverse a surface of the reactant liquid, and flows along a collection path that passes over a collection surface in the collection area. This flow of carrier gas is maintained, so that escaped atoms of catalyst metal are entrained in the gas traversing the surface of the reactant liquid, and are deposited on the collection surface prior to, or concurrently with, a nanocarbon structure formation at the collection surface. See Abstract. The carrier gas may include noble gasses such as argon, inert gasses such as nitrogen, and even carbon-bearing gasses such as oxides of carbon (see column 8, lines 62-64). The feed material may be a hydrocarbon feed material, such as methane, acetylene, crude oil, various crude oil constituents, or combinations of these materials (see column 11, lines 41-48).

Other processes and/or reactors are disclosed in the following references: U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,000,101; 5,431, 113; 5,452,671; 5,461,991; 6,037,517; 6,069,290; 6,195,382; 6,346,221; 6,355,857; 7,034, 197; 7,365,237; 7,449,156; and 8,299,014.

However, the molten metal reactors of the art suffer from one or more of the following issues: a) build-up of coke within the injection nozzle(s), b) build-up of slag within the reactor, c) insufficient flow of an injected feed source into and/or within the reactor, d) energy dissipation away from the reactor, e) inefficiencies associated with conventional reactors, and f) the lack of control over the reaction process. As discussed, there remains a need for efficient molten metal reactors and related processes that minimize one or more of the above issues. There is a further need for such reactors and processes to produce carbon materials, such as a catenated carbon material. These needs have been met as discussed below.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

A molten metal reactor comprising at least the following components a) through c):

• • a) a reactor vessel comprising a molten metal bath;
  • b) an injection assembly; and
  • c) a product removal assembly.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a box-line diagram of a molten metal process, including the molten metal reactor for the same. Please note the following notations for this figure: 2(A)—Molten Metal Reactor Vessel; 4(B)—Molten Metal Circulation Pump; 6(C)—Gas Injection Assembly; 8(D)—Slag Removal; 10(E)—Stage 1 Material Collection Chamber; 12(F)—Heaters for Molten metal; 14(G)—Stage 2 and Stage 3 Cyclone Separators; 16(H)—Sealed Collection Drums; 18(J)—Axial Recirculation Fan; 20(K)—Drop Tubes; 22(L)—Recirculation Piping; 24(M)—Feed Gas Tanks; 26(N)—System Pressure Control and Monometer.

FIG. 2 depicts an electric resistance heater mounted on a removable plug unit.

FIG. 3 depicts a molten metal reactor.

FIG. 4 depicts a molten metal reactor containing a product removal assembly of the shown configuration.

FIG. 5 depicts a collection chamber.

FIG. 6 depicts a molten metal reactor containing a slag rake assembly.

FIG. 7 depicts a slag paddle device.

FIG. 8 depicts a cross-sectional view of a slag paddle device, along the vertical length of the movable slag paddle.

FIG. 9 depicts an upper elevation view of a slag rake assembly.

FIG. 10 depicts a side view of a slag rake assembly, showing the transition of a slag paddle, from insertion into a molten bath, to the movement along an insert, to an outlet chamber. The slag carried along with the slag paddle, enters the outlet chamber, falls onto an outlet door below, which then opens to release the slag into a collection container.

FIG. 11 depicts a portable plug unit.

FIG. 12 depicts some plug units covering portions of the reactor vessel.

FIG. 13 depicts a molten metal circulating pump installed into a removable plug unit.

FIG. 14 depicts a cross-sectional view of a portion of a molten metal reactor.

FIG. 15 depicts a launder makeup vessel containing a transfer pump used to provide makeup molten metal to offset metal lost primarily due to the formation of slag.

FIG. 16 depicts an injection assembly mounted on a removable plug unit—an elevated side view.

FIG. 17 depicts an injection assembly mounted on a removable plug unit—a lower side view.

FIG. 18 depicts a longitudinal, cross-sectional view of an injection device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As discussed above, a molten metal reactor is provided, comprising at least the following components a) through c): a) a reactor vessel comprising a molten metal bath; b) an injection assembly; and c) a product removal assembly.

A molten metal reactor may comprise a combination of two or more embodiments as described herein. A molten metal process may comprise a combination of two or more embodiments as described herein.

The claims at the end of this application set out features of the reactors and/or processes described herein. The various advantages of such features will be better understood by reference to the following description of illustrative embodiments, read in conjunction with the figures introduced above. The following embodiments apply to both the reactors and processes, unless otherwise noted.

In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, a molten metal process takes place using the molten metal reactor 1 as shown in FIG. 1. Here, a reactor vessel A (or 2) comprises a molten metal bath (not shown). One or more heaters F (or 12) are used to maintain the bath temperature, typically after the initial formation of the molten metal bath using one or more gas burners. Within this vessel A is contained a portion of a circulation pump B (or 4) used to circulate the molten metal bath within the reactor vessel. Carbon material (particles, not shown) and one or more gases (not shown) escape from the molten metal bath and collect in the atmosphere below the collection chamber E (or 10). The carbon particles and the gases are formed from the reaction of a carbon source (for example, a hydrocarbon) injected into the molten metal stream at the injection assembly C (or 6). Both the carbon source and an inert gas, such as argon, each from a feed tank M (or 24), are injected into the molten metal bath at the injection assembly C. Note, the carbon source may also be fed, to the reactor, using an on-line feed system (for example, piping components and gauges), from a chemical plant that manufactures the carbon source. The inert gas may also be fed, to the reactor, using an on-line feed system (for example, piping components and gauges), from a chemical plant that manufactures the inert gas.

The carbon particles and gas(es) flow into the collection chamber E, and are then transferred to two cyclone separators G (or 14), arranged in a parallel configuration. Each cyclone separator G is used to separate the particulate carbon from the gas stream (containing one or more gases). This is done typically through a vortex separation and/or a centripetal force. The remaining material and gas(es) then flow into a cyclone separator G, in a series configuration with the first two separators. In each cyclone separator G, the particulate matter drops into a collection drum (or barrel) H (or 16). The gases (predominantly argon) and the remaining carbon particles flow toward a recirculation fan in the axial position J (or 18), through the recirculating piping L (or 22). Additional particulate matter is collected in each drop tube K (or 20), and the argon is circulated back to the collection chamber E. Gases other than the inert gas, may be separated via a vent in in the collection chamber, and may be collected using one or more other devices. As shown in FIG. 1, a system pressure control and monometer N (or 26) are also used to monitor the reactor 1 for leaks, and as needed, a small positive back pressure (for example, 0.020 psi to 0.035 psi) of an inert gas, such as argon, is applied to the reactor 1 to prevent air from seeping into the recirculation line, and other lines. Here, the process is conducted in a closed-circuit recirculating system. It is very important to maintain an anaerobic environment throughout the inside of the reactor, including the processing apparatuses and chambers and gas lines.

It is noted, that to initially form the molten metal bath, metal ingots (for example, aluminum ingots) are added to the reactor vessel. The ingots are melted using one or more gas burners installed on one or more removable plug units. Examples of gas burners include natural gas forced air burners. Once the temperature of the bath is established at a temperature of about 80 degrees Fahrenheit higher than the operational bath temperature (ingots are in liquid form), as noted by several thermocouples placed inside the bath, the heating system for the reactor is carefully and controllably transferred from a “phase 1—gas burner” system, to an intermediate “phase 2—gas burner/electric resistance heater” system, and then carefully and controllably transferred from this “phase 2” system, to a “phase 3—electric resistance heater” system. Each gas burner is removed and replaced with an electric resistance heater. This process is continued until all the gas burners are replaced with electric resistance heaters. An electric resistance heater 30 is shown in FIG. 2. Here each heater (for example, 30) is mounted on a removable plug unit 32, and each heating element 34 will be inserted into a molten metal bath (not shown).

In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, referring to FIG. 3, the molten metal reactor 60 contains a reactor vessel 62 comprising a molten metal bath (not shown), and an injection assembly 64. The reactor also contains a longitudinal centered partition 66 within the bath, and two circulation pumps (see for example 67). These features help to create a circular or semi-circular flow of the molten metal in the bath. A product removal assembly 68 is also shown in FIG. 3. Here, the reactor is run in a closed-circuit recirculating system. Also shown are heater units 69 and a lauder make-up vessel 150 containing a transfer pump 152

In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, a product removal assemble configuration 68 is shown in FIG. 4. The product removal assembly 68, as shown, contains a collection chamber 70, three cyclone separators (see 72), three collection barrels 74 and three drop tubes 76. The reactor is run in a closed-circuit recirculating system, and an inert gas (for example, argon) flows throughout the reactor. The collection chamber 70 is downstream from the injection assembly 64. The collection chamber 70 is a large metal box that has cross-flow ventilation that sweeps the carbon material (particles) and the gas stream toward the cyclone separators 72, which use a vortex separation and/or a centripetal force to transport the particles to the respective collection barrels 74. As shown in FIG. 4, two cyclone separators 72, arranged in a parallel configuration, discharge into a third cyclone separator 72 to assure a maximum collection of the particles. The drop tubes 76, downstream from the separators, assist in scavenging the remainder of the fugitive particles, prior to recirculation of the inert gas to an axial circulating fan 78 and then to the inlet of the collection chamber 70. Gases other than the inert gas, such as, for example, hydrogen, may be separated via a vent in the collection chamber, and may be collected using one or more other devices. In one embodiment, the length of the collection chamber 70 is extended over a large portion of the molten metal bath to fully cover the reaction area downstream from the injection assembly 64, and thereby limit possible excess slag buildup. See also FIG. 5, which shows a side angle view of the collection chamber 70.

In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, referring to FIG. 6, the molten metal reactor 60 contains a slag rake assembly 80, which contains, among other items, a slag rake 82 and at least two, slag paddles 84. In one embodiment, only two paddles 84 are used, such that at the completion of a slag removal cycle, the two slag paddles are stored at each respective end of the slag rake 82, and are clearly removed from the molten metal bath. Constant contact with the molten metal will quickly erode the paddles 84. In one embodiment, the slag rake assembly 80 is positioned across the reactor and within a few feet (for example, 8-10 feet) of the injection assembly. Slag, formed from the reaction, can rise to the surface, as a result of the movement of the bath's circulation in its circular or semi-circular flow path. Slag is collected from the surface of the bath by at least one slag paddle 84, positioned in the return path of the bath, and submerged, for example, several inches (e.g., 1½-2 inches) below the bath's surface. The slag paddle blocks and collects the slag, and the rate of accumulation of the slag can be controlled by an automatic time cycle of the slag rake assembly 80. Each slag paddle 84 moves along a track 86 that surrounds a central surface area 88 of the slag rake 82. The slag paddle 84 also limits the carryover of slag particles that would possibly contaminate the molten bath. This slag rake assembly 80 can provide automatic slag removal, without the exposure of the molten metal to personnel and without exposure of the reactor to the atmosphere. In one embodiment the reactor has an automatic slag removal cycle based on a programmed time interval, which can be manually actuated at any time, as required. Note, other types of equipment for the removal of slag are available from DY-KAST Supply and Equipment Company, STC and TIMESAVERS.

In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, as shown in FIG. 7, each slag paddle 84 of a slag paddle device 90 is assembled, such that a solid rod 92 is inserted through the upper circular surface of the slag paddle 84. The slag paddle 84 is free to rotate around the axis of the solid rod 92 to accommodate the inclined sections of the travel of the paddle, and to allow each paddle to be stored in an elevated position while awaiting the next cycle. This configuration also contains two wiper arms 94 used to limit the rotation of the slag paddle 84 during the slag removal cycle (held vertically), and to allow a free swinging motion at each end to accommodate inclined planes. An end view of the slag paddle device 90, along the vertical axis of the slag paddle 84 is shown in FIG. 8. Here, it is noted that the upper circular surface of the slag paddle 84 forms a hollow tube 96, through which the solid rod 92 is passed through. A wiper arm 94 is also shown in FIG. 8. An elevation view of one end of the slag rake assembly 80 is shown in FIG. 9. Here the solid rod 92 passed through a travel slot 98 in the slag rake support structure. The rod 92 is attached to a linked chain 100. The wiper rail 102 serves to assure that the slag paddle is held in a full vertical position, while gathering and sweeping the slag to the discharge point. The linked chain 100 can be moved using, for example, a chain and sprocket mechanism (not shown) or a pully mechanism (not shown). Component 86 is a track on the slag rake that allows for the travel of each slag paddle. The elevation surface of a slag paddle 84 and the elevation surface of a wiper arm 94 are also shown in FIG. 9.

In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, a cross-sectional view of the operation of a slag rake assembly 80 during a reaction is shown in FIG. 10. Here, the two slag paddles 84 on the slag rake assembly 80 move in a counter-clockwise direction, along a track 86, as shown. Each slag paddle 84 collects slag 116 on the surface of the molten metal bath 110, contained within a refractory wall 112 surroundings. Next, the slag paddle 84 transports the slag 116 along an insert 114, to an outlet chamber 118. There, the slag 116 drops onto an outlet door 120, which then opens to release the slag 116 into a slag collection container 122. The outlet door 120 may be spring-loaded and/or solenoid operated by a limit switch. The outlet door 120 remains in the “closed position,” and only opens to dump slag 116 into the slag collection container 122. The insert 114 may be removable for a ready replacement. The slag rake assembly 80 may be driven by a chain and sprocket mechanism (not shown) or a pully mechanism (not shown). Here, the two slag paddles 84 are positioned at opposite ends of the slag rake track 86.

With any molten metal bath, the exposure of the bath surface to the atmosphere results a continuous absorption of oxygen and the formation of slag. This reduces the efficiency of the molten bath and results in the depletion of the bath, due to the formation of the slag. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the amount of exposure to oxygen is reduced by using a series of plug units. See FIG. 11 for an example of a plug unit 130. The plug unit 130 is typically made from a molded refractory block. The plug unit 130 has several purposes. Mainly to provide a sealing surface over the molten bath to limit the exposure to oxygen, and to provide a structural surface, as needed, to support the installation of various reactor items. Lifting pad eyes 132 are positioned to allow an overhead crane to fully lift each plug and position that plug into a storage stand. Spare parts, (such as a plug), can be pre-staged in a storage location, and if a plug failure should occur during processing operations, the failed plug can be quickly removed and replaced with the ready spare to maintain operational needs. Alignment pins 134, to help align the pins onto the reactor surface, and to assure the correct alignment of each plug unit in the reactor base, are also shown in FIG. 11. These pins also allow for the rapid removal and/or replacement of a plug unit during operational changes. When the reactor is in an operating configuration, all of the open surfaces over the reactor vessel will be covered with one or more plug units. FIG. 12 shows plug units 130 covering portions of the reactor vessel.

A removable plug unit 130, on which a circulation pump 140 is mounted, is shown in FIG. 13. Circulation pumps are available, for example, from Molten Metal Equipment Innovations. FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a molten metal reactor 60, showing a reactor vessel 62, a circulation pump 140 mounted on a plug unit 130, an injection assembly 64, a collection chamber 70 and a slag rake assembly 80. In one embodiment, the side walls of the reactor vessel 62 have a thickness from 20 inches to 30 inches, and the base of the reactor vessel 62 has a thickness from 20 inches to 35 inches.

In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, a launder makeup vessel 150, as shown in FIG. 15, is positioned alongside a reactor (not shown) to transfer molten metal to the main operating bath (not shown). In one embodiment, a transfer pump 152, installed in the launder makeup vessel 150, uses a discharge head, created by an increased RPM, to raise the molten metal to the level for transfer to the reactor vessel (not shown). The launder makeup vessel 150 provides a ready source of molten metal at the same temperature as the molten metal bath, and which source can be pumped into the bath to return the bath to its normal working level. Launder transfer pumps are available, for example, from Molten Metal Equipment Innovations.

In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, an injection assembly 64, mounted to a plug unit 130, is shown in FIG. 16 (an elevated side view). A lower side view of the injection assembly 64 and plug unit 130 are shown in FIG. 17. In both figures, two injection devices 162 are seen. In one embodiment, a longitudinal, cross-sectional view of an injection device 162 is shown in FIG. 18. As seen in FIG. 18, the injection device contains an inner tube 163, which is spiral wrapped with a tubing, for example a copper tubing, 164. Cooled compressed air (not shown) runs through this copper tubing to help prevent pre-mature cracking of the feed gas. The wrapped inner tube is partially enclosed within an inner guard pipe 166. This inner guard 166 provides a second heat barrier for the cooling of the spiral tubing containing the compressed air. The inner guard pipe, in turn, is partially enclosed in an outer guard pipe 168, which provides an interface between the injection nozzle 170 (and its gasket 178) and an outer shell 172 made from a refractory material. The space 174 between the inner guard pipe 166 and the outer guard pipe 168 allows for a return path of the cooling air from the nozzle area. The space 174 fills the surrounding open areas. The dead space 176 between the inner guard pipe 166 and the outer guard pipe 168, will allow for the natural circulation of air that results from the temperature differential within this space. The injection nozzle 170 is formed from a refractory material. This injection nozzle 170 is inserted through the inner hole of a refractory gasket 178. The entire portion of the injection device, except for the “base surface of the injection nozzle” 180, as shown in FIG. 18, is enclosed in the outer shell 172 formed from a refractory material. This outer shell 172 supports the injection device within the plug unit (see FIGS. 16 and 17), and provides structural support and some insulation for the injection nozzle 170. An injection tip 182 is also shown in FIG. 18. This injection tip 182 connects the inner tube 163 with the exit opening 184 of the injection nozzle 170.

In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the reactor further comprises a partition located within the reactor vessel.

In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the reactor further comprises ≥1 plug unit(s), or ≥2 plug units. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, each plug unit is used to seal in a positive pressure, inert gas purge, to reduce the amount of oxygen that can leak into the reactor. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, each plug unit is removable. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the bottom surface of each plug unit is inserted into the molten metal bath. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, one or more plug units are placed over the open surfaces of the reactor vessel when the reactor is in operation. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, each plug unit may provide structural support for one or more other pieces of equipment.

In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the injection assembly is located on a plug unit. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the injection assembly comprises ≥1 injection device(s), or ≥2 injection devices.

In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, at least one injection device is used to inject at least one carbon source into the molten metal bath. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the at least one carbon source is at least one hydrocarbon. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the at least one hydrocarbon is acetylene or methane, and further acetylene.

In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, at least one injection device is used to inject at least one inert gas into the molten metal bath. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the at least one inert gas is argon. The inert gas, such as argon, may be used to reduce the surface tension of the metal atoms and/or metal ions on the surface of the molten metal. The inert gas, such as argon, may be used to help degas the molten metal bath, such as an aluminum bath, to release trapped gas(es), such as hydrogen, from the bath.

In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, a portion of each injection device is inserted beneath the surface of the molten metal bath, at an angle relative to the base surface of a plug unit. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the angle is ≥35 degrees, or ≥40 degrees, or ≥45 degrees and/or ≤60 degrees, or ≤55 degrees, or ≤50 degrees, relative to the base surface of the plug unit.

In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the ratio of the volume of the inert gas injected into the molten metal bath (V_IG) to the volume of the carbon source injected into the molten metal bath (V_CS), or V_IG/V_CS, is ≥0.70, or ≥0.75, or ≥0.80, or ≥0.85, or ≥0.90, or ≥0.95, or ≥1.00 and/or ≤1.40, or ≤1.35, or ≤1.30, or ≤1.20, or ≤1.15, or ≤1.10, or ≤1.05.

In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the molten metal of the molten metal bath comprises aluminum (Al), magnesium (Mg), lithium (Li), or any combination thereof. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the molten metal of the molten metal bath comprises aluminum (Al), magnesium (Mg) or any combination thereof.

In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the molten metal of the molten metal bath comprises aluminum (Al). In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the aluminum (Al) is present in an amount ≥80 wt %, or ≥85 wt %, or ≥90 wt %, or ≥92 wt %, or ≥94 wt %, or ≥96 wt %, ≥98 wt %, or ≥99 wt %, based on the weight of the molten metal bath and/or present in an amount ≤100 wt %, based on the weight of the molten metal bath.

In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the reactor comprises a closed-circuit recirculating system.

In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, each physical piece of equipment, used in the reactor, and which comes into contact with the molten metal, is independently coated with a refractory material. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the refractory material comprises boron nitride.

In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the reactor further comprises ≥1 electric resistance heater, or ≥2 electric resistance heaters, or ≥3 electric resistance heaters, or ≥4 electric resistance heaters, or ≥5 electric resistance heaters, or ≥6 electric resistance heaters, or ≥7 electric resistance heaters, or ≥8 electric resistance heaters. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the reactor further comprises ≤25 electric resistance heaters, or ≤20 electric resistance heaters, or ≤15 electric resistance heaters, or ≤10 electric resistance heaters. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the heating element of each heater is inserted vertically into the molten bath. In one embodiment, or a combination of two or more embodiments, each described herein, the electrical power generated by each heater is dissipated as heat into the molten metal bath. This helps to reduce the dissipation of heat (energy) away from the molten metal bath.

DEFINITIONS

The term “molten metal process,” as used herein, refers to a process to carry out one or more chemical reactions by use of a molten metal bath, and, optionally, to separate and/or collect the one or more reaction products. The molten metal bath may be a molten metal alloy bath.

The term “molten metal reactor,” as used herein, refers to an assembly of devices used to carry out one or more chemical reactions using a molten metal bath, and, optionally, to separate and/or collect the one or more reaction products.

The term “reactor vessel,” as used herein, refers to a container that contains a molten metal bath. A molten metal bath comprises one or more metals. The reactor vessel is typically a refractory structure.

The term “molten metal bath,” as used herein, refers to a mass comprising one or more metals in a molten state, and where the bath is contained in a container, such as, for example, a crucible or other refractory container, or a refractory lined reactor vessel. The molten metal may comprise aluminum (Al), magnesium (Mg), lithium (Li), or any combination thereof.

The term “carbon source,” as used herein, refers to a chemical compound comprising one or more carbon atoms

The term “hydrocarbon,” as used herein, refers to a chemical compound containing only one or more carbon atoms and one or more hydrogen atoms.

The term “carbon material,” as used herein, refers to one or more forms of carbon. Typically, the carbon material is formed as a particulate solid (or flakes). Examples of carbon materials include the Fullerene allotrope of carbon (see U.S. Pat. No. 11,718,530).

The term “catenated carbon material,” as used herein, refers to carbon material comprising carbon molecules bonded in a chain-like manner (see U.S. Pat. No. 11,718,530).

The term “catenated Fullerene, as used herein, refers to fullerene carbon molecules bonded in a chain-like manner (see U.S. Pat. No. 11,718,530).

The term “Fullerene,” as used herein, refers to a spherical allotrope of carbon generally known today as C60 fullerene (also buckminsterfullerene originally), consisting of singly unsaturated trigonally substituted carbon atoms all equidistant and equiangular per individual sphere, as in the individual concentric shells of an onion associated with an increased level of electron delocalization around a continuous sphere, and with more thermodynamic stability than that available to the planar graphite or graphene allotrope, but less than that available to the crossene allotrope, where electron delocalization crosses onion shells to incorporate the whole molecular system over that of just the individual concentric shells of a fullerene onion (see U.S. 11,718,530).

The term “downstream,” as used herein, in reference to a molten metal process or a molten metal reactor, each as described herein, refers to location of a device that occurs later in the process or the reactor, relative to another device.

The term “upstream,” as used herein, in reference to a molten metal process or a molten metal reactor, each as described herein, refers to location of a device that occurs earlier in the process or the reactor, relative to another device.

The term “L_I/W_I ratio,” as used here, in reference to a reactor vessel, refers to the ratio of the inner length of the reactor vessel to the inner width of the reactor vessel. Each dimension takes into account the respective dimension of a partition, if present, within the reactor vessel. Note, the inner width of the reactor vessel refers to its largest width, and the inner length of the reactor vessel refers to its largest length.

The term “transfer pump,” as used herein, refers to a device used to transfer a stream of molten metal from a molten metal bath to a reactor vessel, to another molten metal bath, or to another device.

The term “circulation pump,” as used herein, refers to a device used to circulate a molten metal bath around a reactor vessel, or other device.

The term “product removal assembly,” as used herein, refers to an assembly of devices used to remove and/or collect one or more products of one or more chemical reactions from a molten metal process.

The term “collection chamber,” as used herein, refer to a device that is used to collect one or more products (for example, one or more carbon materials and/or one or more gases) generated from one or more chemical reactions from a molten metal process.

The term “cyclone separator,” as used herein, refers to a device (typically, commercially available) that is used to remove particulate matter (for example, carbon particles) from a gas stream (or liquid stream or vapor stream). This removal is done typically through a vortex separation and/or a centripetal force. Typically, the particulate matter drops into a collection drum or barrel. A gas stream contains one or more gases. A liquid stream and a vapor stream are each similarly defined.

The term “vortex separation,” as used herein, refers to a method of separating solid(s) from liquid(s) and/or gas(es), or a method of separating droplets of liquid from a gas stream, each method using rotational effects and gravity.

The term “centripetal force,” as used herein, refers to the force necessary to keep an object moving in a curved path, and which force is directed outward toward the center of rotation of the object.

The term “blower,” as used herein, refers to a device that pushes out one or more gases by imparting energy to the gas(es) to increase the energy and speed of the gas(es). This energy may provide the motive energy to support a “closed circuit” recirculating system.

The term “fan,” as used herein, refers to a device with rotating blades that creates a current of one or more gases for cooling and/or ventilation.

The term “injection assembly,” as used herein, refers to an assembly of one or more components, and which is used to feed a hydrocarbon, or other carbon source, and/or an inert gas into a molten metal bath. The assembly is typically used to feed both the carbon source, as a gas, and an inert gas (for example, argon) into the bath.

The term ‘injection device,“ as used herein, refers to an apparatus assemble comprising an inner tube, an inner guard pipe and an outer guard pipe.

The term “injection tip,” as used herein, refers to a tube that is partially inserted into the inner tube of the injection device.

The term “injection nozzle,” as used herein, refers to an opening that bridges the end of the injection tip with the molten metal bath. Typically, a constant and positive pressure gas flow is generated, prior to submerging the end of the injection tip into the molten metal. Typically, the injection nozzle is formed by a hole within a disk made from a refractory material of certain diameter and thickness.

The term “refractory gasket,” as used herein, refers a gasket formed from a composition comprising a majority amount, by weight, of a refractory material. Typically, such a composition comprises ≥90 wt %, or ≥95 wt %, or ≥98 wt %, or ≥99 wt % of the refractory material, based on the weight of the composition. Typically, such a gasket is used to fill a space by some deformation, and to close and seal gaps.

The term “compressed air,” as used herein, refers to air that is kept under a pressure that is greater than atmospheric pressure. Compressed air, just like regular air, comprises hydrogen, oxygen and water vapor. Heat is generated when the air is compressed, and the pressure of the air is increased. When compressed air is released via a small orifice, the gas rapidly cools as it expands, in accordance with Boyles Law, and provides the cooling effect.

The term “injection flow rate,” as used herein, refers to the rate at which a gas (for example, a hydrocarbon or argon) is injected into a molten metal.

The term “inert gas,” as used herein, refers to a gas that does not change under a given set of conditions. The inert gas, under conditions of interest, does not undergo chemical reactions with other chemical substances, and therefore does not form chemical compounds. Inert gases typically include the noble gases, since such gases often do not react with many substances. Inert gases are used generally to avoid unwanted chemical reactions. These undesirable chemical reactions include, for example, oxidation, catalytic and hydrolysis reactions with the oxygen and water. The term “inert gas” is context-dependent because an inert gas (for example, several of the noble gases) can be made to react under certain conditions. Purified argon gas is typically the most commonly used inert gas, due to its natural abundance (about 1% argon in air) and low relative cost. The inert gas may also acts as a degassing mechanism to remove the hydrogen from the liquid metal bath.

The term “refractory material,” as used herein, refers to a material composition that shows resistance to the temperatures, pressures, and chemicals in a reaction and/or process of interest. Typically, the refractory material is resistant to high temperatures (for example, temperatures ≥melting temperature of a molten metal, or for example, temperatures ≥1000° F. (538° C.), or ≥1500° F. (816° C.), or ≥2000° F. (1093° C.). A refractory material can be used to seal and coat surfaces of a reactor of interest. Refractory materials comprise natural and/or synthetic materials, such as, for example, nonmetallic compounds and minerals, or combinations of such compounds and minerals. Refractory materials include, but are not limited to, boron nitride, alumina, fireclays, bauxite, chromite, dolomite, magnesite, silicon carbide, zirconia, and combinations thereof. An example of a refractory material is BORON NITRIDE PRODUCTS available from Materion.

The term “refractory block,” as used herein, refers to a refractory material, used to build (for example, by pouring) a piece of equipment (for example, a plug unit). A refractory block is designed mainly to withstand high heat, but should also usually have a low thermal conductivity to save energy. An example of a refractory block is the refractory material PILCAST AL SHIELD 2765 KK available from Plibrico Company, LLC.

The term “refractory mold,” as used herein, refers to a molded apparatus or piece of equipment formed from a refractory material.

The term “gas burner,” as used herein, refers to a heating device that operates by burning one or more gases, such as, for example, natural gas. Examples of gas burners include natural gas forced air burners. Typically, gas burners are used in gas fired Reverb Furnaces.

The term “electric resistance heater,” as used herein, refers to a device that comprises at least one heating element that converts electrical energy into heat.

The terms “linear flow,” or “linear flow pattern,” each as used herein, refer to a flow regime characterized by parallel flow lines in a molten metal bath.

The terms “partially turbulent flow” and “partially turbulent flow pattern,” as used herein, refer to a flow regime characterized by a combination of linear flow and turbulent flow (the speed of a fluid at a point is continuously undergoing changes in magnitude and direction) in a molten metal bath. A partially turbulent flow is desired to facilitate adequate mixing.

The term “closed-circuit recirculating system,” as used herein, refers to a molten metal process or a molten metal reactor, or a reactor component, such as a product collection system, in which each process, reactor, or reactor component is not open to the atmosphere. Typically, such a process, reactor or reactor component comprises piping, ductwork, connections, and flow inducing devices, all involved in transporting, for example, a gas and/or a diffused matter within a gas, from an emission point to a control device and/or to a separation device.

The term “drop tube,” as used herein, refers to a device (for example, a pipe) inserted into a process, and where the device serves to redirect and temporarily slow down the movement or velocity flow of matter, to allow particulate or sediment to “drop out” of the flow path. The drop tube is typically a vertical device that is inserted into a horizontal pipe or tube, and which device collects the “dropped out” material. Typically, the drop tube has an opening at its bottom that can be opened periodically to collect the trapped (dropped out) material. Downstream of the drop tube, the flow rate typically returns to its normal velocity.

The term “gas recycling device,” as used herein, refers to an apparatus used to separate one or more gasses (for example, hydrogen) from an emission stream, and to, independently, collect each gas and/or recycle each gas back to a reactor. It is noted that a recycled inert gas, after the removal of other gases, such as hydrogen, can be recycled to the product removal area and/or the waste input area.

The term “selective permeation membrane,” as used herein, refers to a membrane that selectively allows certain molecules and/or ions to pass through it by, for example, a diffusion mechanism, such as a gaseous diffusion. An example of a selective permeation membrane is a SEPURAN NOBLE membrane device available from Evonik. Other examples include palladium membranes and zeolite membranes.

The phrase “a majority of,” or similar phrases or terms, as used herein, refer to ≥50% of the weight, dimension, area, volume, or amount of the subject of interest.

The phrase “recirculation fan in the axial position,” as used herein, refers to a recirculation fan situated axially to the flow of the atmosphere moving through the fan.

The phrase “physical piece of equipment,” as used herein, refers to a piece of equipment or a device used in a process or reactor of interest.

The term “slag rake assembly,” as used herein, refers to an assembly of devices, and which assembly is used to remove slag from the surface of a molten metal bath.

The term “slag rake,” as used herein, refers to a device used to remove slag from the surface of a molten metal bath. Typically, the slag rake comprises one or more slag paddle devices, and preferably two slag paddle devices.

The term “slag paddle device” as used herein, in reference to a slag rake, refers to the components that make up a functioning slag paddle for the purpose of removing slag from the surface of a molten metal bath.

The term “slag paddle” as used herein, in reference to a slag paddle device, refers to a structure used to remove slag from the surface of the molten metal bath. See, for example, FIG. 6 (item 84) and FIG. 7 (item 84).

The term “slag,” as used herein, refers to a reaction product comprising one or more metal oxides. Such metal oxides are typically formed when oxygen comes into contact with a molten metal bath.

The phrase “central surface area of the slag rake,” as used herein, refers to the inner surface of the length of the slag rake. A slag rake, as described herein, has two length sections, where each inner surface faces the inner surface of the other length section. Typically, each inner surface is encompassed within, and surrounded by, an elongated oblong track. See, for example, FIG. 6 (item 88).

The term “insert,” as used herein, refers to a structure used to guide each slag paddle to an outlet chamber. See, for example, FIG. 10 (item 114).

The term “outlet chamber,” as used herein, refers to a container used to receive slag collected from the surface of a molten metal bath, and which slag is typically transferred along an insert to this chamber. An outlet door is typically located at the bottom of the chamber, which door opens to release the slag into a slag collection chamber, and then recloses to prevent the migration of oxygen into the process closed environment. See, for example, FIG. 10.

The term “slag collection container,” as used herein, refer to a container that is used to collect slag that falls from an outlet door.

The term “metal oxide,” as used herein, refers to a compound comprising oxygen, and at least one metal and/or at least one metalloid. Examples include, but are not limited to, Al₂O₃ (aluminum (III) oxide), AlO (aluminum (II) oxide), Al₂O) (aluminum (I) oxide), and SiO₂ (silicon (IV) oxide).

The term “plug unit,” as used herein, refers to a planar structure (for example, top surface area or base surface area >10× the area of a side (or edge) surface). A plug unit is typically formed from a refractory material and/or one or more high temperature resistant metals. The plug unit can acts as a shield to prevent the migration of oxygen to the molten metal bath. It can also provide a surface for the mounting of pumps, heaters, inspection points, thermocouples, and other instruments. The plug unit typically has lifting pad eyes that provide points of attachment for a lifting device, such as a traveling overhead crane. A plug unit is typically readily accessible, and can be readily removed for repair or replacement, or for the repair or replacement of a mounted device, thus reducing the amount of time lost to equipment failure and repair. See, for example, FIG. 11. The plug unit is typically formed from a refractory material, such as, for example, PLICAST AL-TUFF 3100 SPECIAL KK (available from Plibrico Company, LLC) and/or one or more high temperature resistant metals (metals or metal alloys that typically have a melting point of above 2000° C. (3632° F.)).

The term “structural support,” as used herein, refers to a component that supports non-variable forces or weights (dead loads) and variable forces or weights (live loads).

The term “partition,” as used herein, refers to a structure used to divide or separate portions of a molten metal bath. See, for example, FIG. 3 (item 66).

The phrase “reactor is in operation,” and similar phrases, as used herein, refer to the injection of a carbon source into a molten metal, the subsequent reaction of the carbon source with the molten metal bath, and, optionally, the separation and/or collection of the reaction product(s).

The term “headspace,” as used herein, refers to the atmosphere above the molten metal bath surface.

The term “makeup molten metal,” as used herein, refers to the molten metal that is used to replenish the amount of the molten metal bath consumed in the formation of slag and/or other reaction(s).

The term “sunken pit,” as used herein, refers to a pit that comprises a base that is lower, on all sides, than the surrounding floor area. The sunken pit may serve as a catch basin for the molten metal in the case of a leak, such as, for example, a leak in a reactor vessel. The pit may also serves as an annulus space for ventilation under the reactor, to keep the adjacent area under the reactor at a cooler temperature.

The “Temperature (T1)” of the molten metal in the reactor vessel, as used herein, refers to the average temperature of the temperatures from four or more thermocouples located at various positions in the molten metal bath.

The term “on-line feed system,” as used herein, refers to the apparatus (for example, piping components and gauges) used to feed, to a reactor, a chemical (for example a carbon source or an inert gas) from a manufacturing plant that produces the chemical.

The term “gas back pressure,” as used herein in reference to a gas flow, through a gas flow meter, refers to the pressure measured at the outlet side of the gas flow meter.

Listing of Some Reactor and Process Features

• • A] A molten metal reactor comprising at least the following components a) through c):
    • a) a reactor vessel comprising a molten metal bath,
    • b) an injection assembly, and
    • c) a product removal assembly.
  • B] The molten metal reactor of A] above, wherein the reactor further comprises a partition located within the reactor vessel.
  • C] The molten metal reactor of A] or B] above, wherein the ratio of the width of the partition to the inner width of the reactor vessel is ≥0.20, or ≥0.30, or ≥0.40, or ≥0.50 and/or ≤0.80, or ≤0.70, or ≤0.60. Note, the width of the partition refers to its largest width, and the inner width of the reactor vessel refers to its largest width.
  • D] The molten metal reactor of any one of A]-C] (A] through C]) above, wherein the ratio of the length of the partition to the inner length of the reactor vessel is ≥0.20, or ≥0.30 inch, or ≥0.40, or ≥0.50 and/or ≤0.80, or ≤0.70, or ≤0.60. Note, the length of the partition refers to its largest length, and the inner length of the reactor vessel refers to its largest length.
  • E] The molten metal reactor of A] or B] above, wherein the ratio of the width of the partition to the inner width of the reactor vessel is ≥0.20, or ≥0.25, or ≥0.30 and/or ≤0.50, or ≤0.45, or ≤0.40.
  • F] The molten metal reactor of A] or B] or E] above, wherein the ratio of the length of the partition to the inner length of the reactor vessel is ≥0.50, or ≥0.60, or ≥0.70 and/or ≤0.90, or ≤0.85, or ≤0.80.
  • G] The molten metal reactor of any one of A]-F] above, wherein the reactor further comprises ≥1 plug unit(s), or ≥2 plug units.
  • H] The molten metal reactor of G] above, wherein each plug unit is used to seal in a positive pressure, inert gas purge, to reduce the amount of oxygen that can leak into the reactor.
  • I] The molten metal reactor of G] or H] above, wherein each plug unit is removable.
  • J] The molten metal reactor of any one of G]-H] above, wherein each plug unit can be moved by a lifting device (such as, for example, a traveling overhead crane).
  • K] The molten metal reactor of any one of G]-J] above, wherein the bottom surface of each plug unit is inserted into the molten metal bath.
  • L] The molten metal reactor of any one of G]-K] above, wherein the bottom surface of each plug unit is independently inserted into the molten metal bath, at a depth of ≥0.20 inch (0.51 cm), or ≥0.30 inch (0.76 cm), or ≥0.40 inch (1.0 cm), or ≥0.50 inch (1.3 cm), as measured from the bottom surface of the plug unit.
  • M] The molten metal reactor of any one of G]-L] above, wherein the bottom surface of each plug unit is independently inserted into the molten metal bath, at a depth of ≤3.0 in (7.62 cm), or ≤2.5 in (6.4 cm), or ≤2.0 in (5.1 cm), or ≤1.5 in (3.8 cm), as measured from the bottom surface of the plug unit.
  • N] The molten metal reactor of any one of G]-M] above, wherein each plug unit is over an open surface of the reactor vessel when the reactor is in operation.
  • O] The molten metal reactor of any one of G]-N] above, wherein each plug unit may provide structural support for one or more other pieces of equipment.
  • P] The molten metal reactor of any one of A]-O] above, wherein the injection assembly is located on a plug unit.
  • Q] The molten metal reactor of any one of A]-P] above, wherein the injection assembly comprises ≥1 injection device(s), or ≥2 injection devices, and further 2 injection devices.
  • R] The molten metal reactor of Q] above, wherein at least one injection device is used to inject at least one carbon source into the molten metal bath, and further the at least one carbon source has a purity ≥90.0 vol %, or ≥92.0 vol %, or ≥94.0 vol %, or ≥96.0 vol %, or ≥98.0 vol %, or ≥99.0 vol % and/or ≤100.0 vol %, based on the volume of the carbon source.
  • S] The molten metal reactor of R] above, wherein the at least one carbon source is at least one hydrocarbon.
  • T] The molten metal reactor of S] above, wherein the at least one hydrocarbon has a purity ≥90.0 vol %, or ≥92.0 vol %, or ≥94.0 vol %, or ≥96.0 vol %, or ≥98.0 vol %, or ≥99.0 vol % and/or ≤100.0 vol %, based on the volume of the hydrocarbon.
  • U] The molten metal reactor of S] or T] above, wherein the at least one hydrocarbon is acetylene or methane; and further acetylene.
  • V] The molten metal reactor of any one of Q]-U] above, wherein at least one injection device is used to inject at least one inert gas into the molten metal bath.
  • W] The molten metal reactor of V] above, wherein the at least one inert gas has a purity ≥99.0 vol % and/or ≤100.0 vol %, based on the volume of the inert gas.
  • X] The molten metal reactor of V] or W] above, wherein the at least one inert gas is argon.
  • Y] The molten metal reactor of any one of Q]-X] above, wherein at least one injection device is located on a plug unit, and further on the same plug unit on which the injection assembly is located.
  • Z] The molten metal reactor of Y] above, wherein two injection devices are located on the plug unit.
  • A2] The molten metal reactor of any one of Q]-Z] above, wherein each injection device comprises the following components: i) an inner tube, ii) an inner guard pipe, iii) an outer guard pipe.
  • B2] The molten metal reactor of A2] above, wherein the inner tube is wrapped with a tubing, and further spiral wrapped with the tubing. For example, see FIG. 18.
  • C2] The molten metal reactor of B2] above, wherein the tubing is either a stainless steel tubing or a copper tubing.
  • D2] The molten metal reactor of any one of A2]-C2] above, wherein the inner tube has a length ≥20 inches (51 cm), or ≥25 inches (64 cm), or ≥30 inches (76 cm), or ≥35 inches (89 cm), or ≥40 inches (102 cm) and/or ≤60 inches (152 cm), or ≤55 inches (140 cm), or ≤50 inches (127 cm), or ≤45 inches (114 cm).
  • E2] The molten metal reactor of any one of B2]-D2] above, wherein the amount of the length of the inner tube that is spiral wrapped with the tubing is ≥30%, or ≥35%, or ≥40%, or ≥45%, or ≥50%, or ≥55%, or ≥60% and/or ≤90%, or ≤85%, or ≤80%, or ≤75%, or ≤70%, or ≤65% of the total length of the inner tube.
  • F2] The molten metal reactor of any one of B2]-E2] above, wherein the tubing has an inner diameter ≥0.10 inches (0.25 cm), or ≥0.15 inches (0.38 cm), or ≥0.20 inches (0.51 cm), or ≥0.25 inches (0.61 cm) and/or ≤0.50 inches (1.27 cm), or ≤0.45 inches (1.14 cm), or ≤0.40 inches (1.02 cm), or ≤0.35 inches (0.89 cm), or ≤0.30 inches (0.76 cm).
  • G2] The molten metal reactor of any one of A2]-F2] above, wherein the inner tube has an inner diameter ≥0.10 inches (0.25 cm), or ≥0.15 inches (0.38 cm), or ≥0.20 inches (0.51 cm), or ≥0.25 inches (0.61 cm) and/or ≤0.50 inches (1.27 cm), or ≤0.45 inches (1.14 cm), or ≤0.40 inches (1.02 cm), or ≤0.35 inches (0.89 cm), or ≤0.30 inches (0.76 cm).
  • H2] The molten metal reactor of any one of B2]-G2] above, wherein compressed air is circulated within the tubing that wraps around the inner tube.
  • I2] The molten metal reactor of H2] above, wherein the compressed air is at a temperature ≥50° F. (11° C.), or ≥55° F. (13° C.), or ≥60° F. (16° C.), and/or ≤100° F. (38° C.),, or ≤90° F. (32° C.), or ≤80° F. (27° C.).
  • J2] The molten metal reactor of any one of A2]-12] above, wherein the inner tube is partially enclosed by the inner guard pipe.
  • K2] The molten metal reactor of any one of A2]-J2] above, wherein the inner guard pipe is an iron pipe.
  • L2] The molten metal reactor of any one of A2]-K2] above, wherein the inner guard pipe has an inner diameter ≥2.0 inches (5.1 cm), or ≥2.2 inches (5.6 cm), or ≥2.4 inches (6.1 cm) and/or ≤3.5 inches (8.9 cm), or ≤3.0 inches (7.6 cm), or ≤2.8 inches (7.1 cm).
  • M2] The molten metal reactor of any one of A2]-L2] above, wherein the inner guard pipe is partially enclosed by the outer guard pipe.
  • N2] The molten metal reactor of any one of A2]-M2] above, wherein the outer guard pipe is an iron pipe.
  • O2] The molten metal reactor of any one of A2]-N2] above, wherein the outer guard pipe has an inner diameter ≥4.0 inches (10.2 cm), or ≥4.2 inches (10.7 cm), or ≥4.4 inches (11.2 cm) and/or ≤6.0 inches (15.2 cm), or ≤5.8 inches (14.7 cm), or ≤5.6 inches (14.2 cm).
  • P2] The molten metal reactor of any one of H2]-02] above, wherein there is a space between the inner guard pipe and the outer guard pipe that allows for a return path for the compressed air; and further a return path for the compressed air and a return path for heated air, within the injection device, back to the atmosphere.
  • Q2] The molten metal reactor of any one of A2]-P2] above, wherein the injection device further comprises an injection tip that has an inlet and an outlet, and where the injection tip is partially inserted into the inner tube, such that its inlet is within the inner tube. See, for example, FIG. 18.
  • R2] The molten metal reactor of Q2] above, wherein the outlet of the injection tip is partially inserted into the opening of an injection nozzle. See, for example, FIG. 18.
  • S2] The molten metal reactor of R2] above, wherein the injection nozzle is formed from a refractory material. See, for example, FIG. 18.
  • T2] The molten metal reactor of R2] or S2] above, wherein the injection nozzle is inserted into a refractory gasket. See, for example, FIG. 18.
  • U2] The molten metal reactor of any one of R2]-T2] above, wherein the outlet of the injection nozzle is protruding into the molten metal bath. See, for example, FIG. 18.
  • V2] The molten metal reactor of any one of Q]-U2] above, wherein each injection device is enclosed within a refractory material.
  • W2] The molten metal reactor of any one of Q]-V2] above, wherein a portion of each injection device is inserted beneath the surface of the molten metal bath.
  • X2] The molten metal reactor of any one of Y]-W2] above, wherein a portion of each injection device is inserted beneath the surface of the molten metal bath, at an angle relative to the base surface of the plug unit.
  • Y2] The molten metal reactor of X2] above, wherein the angle is ≥35 degrees, or ≥40 degrees, or ≥45 degrees and/or ≤60 degrees, or ≤55 degrees, or ≤50 degrees, relative to the base surface of the plug unit.
  • Z2] The molten metal reactor of any one of A]-Y2] above, wherein the reactor further comprises a second injection assembly.
  • A3] The molten metal reactor of Z2] above, wherein each injection assembly is located on a different plug unit.
  • B3] The molten metal reactor of A3] above, wherein the two plug units are separated by a distance 0.25 inches (0.64 cm) ≥0.30 inches (0.76 cm), or ≥0.35 inches (0.89 cm), or ≥0.40 inches (1.02 cm), or ≥0.45 inches (1.14 cm) and/or less than 1.00 inches (2.54 cm) ≤0.90 inches (2.29 cm), or ≤0.80 inches (2.03 cm), or ≤0.70 inches (1.78 cm), or ≤0.60 inches (1.52 cm), or ≤0.50 inches (1.27 cm); where the distance is the smallest distance measured from inner edge of one plug unit to the nearest inner edge of the other plug unit. Note, the inner edge of each plug unit is adjacent to the inner edge of the other plug unit.
  • C3] The molten metal reactor of any one of V]-B3] above, wherein the at least one inert gas is injected, at a pressure ≥0.50 psi, at a rate of ≥2.0 L/min, or ≥2.2 L/min, or ≥2.4 L/min, or ≥2.6 L/min, or ≥2.8 L/min, or ≥3.0 L/min. The pressure is the gas back pressure.
  • D3] The molten metal reactor of any one of V]-C3] above, wherein the at least one inert gas is injected, at a pressure ≥0.50 psi, at a rate of ≤5.0 L/min, or ≤4.8 L/min, or ≤4.6 L/min, or ≤4.4 L/min, or ≤4.2 L/min, or ≤4.0 L/min.
  • E3] The molten metal reactor of any one of V]-B3] above, wherein the at least one inert gas is injected, at a pressure ≥3.0 psi, at a rate of ≥4.0 L/min, at a rate of ≥5.0 L/min, or ≥6.0 L/min, or ≥7.0 L/min, or ≥8/0 L/min, or ≥9.0 L/min, or ≥10 L/min. The pressure is the gas back pressure.
  • F3] The molten metal reactor of any one of V]-B3] or E3] above, wherein the at least one inert gas is injected, at a pressure ≥3.0 psi, at a rate of ≤30 L/min, or ≤25 L/min, or ≤20 L/min, or ≤15 L/min.
  • G3] The molten metal reactor of any one of V]-F3] above, wherein the ratio of the volume of the inert gas injected into the molten metal bath (V_IG) to the volume of the carbon source injected into the molten metal bath (V_CS), or V_IG/V_CS, is ≥0.70, or ≥0.75, or ≥0.80, or ≥0.85, or ≥0.90, or ≥0.95, or ≥1.00 and/or ≤1.40, or ≤1.35, or ≤1.30, or ≤1.20, or ≤1.15, or ≤1.10, or ≤1.05.
  • H3] The molten metal reactor of any one of X]-G3] above, wherein the ratio of the volume of argon injected into the molten metal bath (V_AR) to the volume of hydrocarbon injected into the molten metal bath (V_HC), or V_AR/V_HC, is ≥0.70, or ≥0.75, or ≥0.80, or ≥0.85, or ≥0.90, or ≥0.95, or ≥1.00 and/or ≤1.40, or ≤1.35, or ≤1.30, or ≤1.20, or ≤1.15, or ≤1.10, or ≤1.05.
  • I3] The molten metal reactor of any one of V]-H3] above, wherein the inert gas, reduces the surface tension of the metal atoms and/or metal ions on the surface of the molten metal, as compared to the same reactor and bath conditions, except for the exclusion of the inert gas.
  • J3] The molten metal reactor of any one of V]-C3] above, wherein the inert gas is recycled using a gas recycling device comprising a selective permeation membrane.
  • K3] The molten metal reactor of any one of A]-J3] above, wherein the temperature of the molten metal bath (T1) is ≥600° F. (316° C.), or ≥650° F. (343° C.), or ≥700° F. (371° C.), or ≥750° F. (399° C.), or ≥800° F. (427° C.), or ≥850° F. (454° C.), or ≥900° F. (482° C.), or ≥950° F. (510° C.), or ≥1000° F. (538° C.), or ≥1050° F. (566° C.), or ≥1100° F. (593° C.), or ≥1150° F. (621° C.), or ≥1200° F. (644° C.), or ≥1250° F. (677° C.), or ≥1300° F. (704° C.), or ≥1350° F. (732° C.), or ≥1400° F. (760° C.), or ≥1450° F. (788° C.), or ≥1500° F. (816° C.), or ≥1550° F. (843° C.).
  • L3] The molten metal reactor of any one of A]-K3] above, wherein the temperature of the molten metal bath (T1) is ≤2000° F. (1093° C.), or ≤1950° F. (1066° C.), or ≤1900° F. (1038° C.), or ≤1850° F. (1010° C.), or ≤1800° F. (982° C.), or ≤1750° F. (954° C.), or ≤1700° F. (927° C.), or ≤1650° F. (899° C.), or ≤1600° F. (871° C.).
  • M3] The molten metal reactor of any one of A]-L3] above, wherein the temperature of the molten metal bath (T1) is ≥1221° F. (661° C.), or ≥1230° F. (666° C.), or ≥1240° F. (671° C.), or ≥ 1260° F. (682° C.), or ≥1280° F. (693° C.), or ≥1300° F. (704° C.), or ≥1320° F. (716° C.), or ≥1340° F. (727° C.), or ≥1360° F. (738° C.), or ≥1380° F. (749° C.), or ≥1400° F. (760° C.), or ≥1420° F. (771° C.), or ≥1440° F. (782° C.), or ≥1460° F. (793° C.), or ≥1480° F. (804° C.), or ≥1500° F. (816° C.), or ≥1520° F. (827° C.), or ≥1540° F. (838° C.).
  • N3] The molten metal reactor of any one of A]-M3] above, wherein the temperature of the molten metal bath (T1) is ≤1850° F. (1010° C.), or ≤1800° F. (982° C.), or ≤1780° F. (971° C.), or ≤1750° F. (954° C.), or ≤1720° F. (938° C.), or ≤1700° F. (927° C.), or ≤1680° F. (916° C.), or ≤1650° F. (899° C.), or ≤1620° F. (882° C.), or ≤1600° F. (871° C.), or ≤1580° F. (860° C.).
  • O3] The molten metal reactor of any one of A]-N3] above, wherein the molten metal of the molten metal bath comprises aluminum (Al), magnesium (Mg), lithium (Li), or any combination thereof, or the molten metal bath comprises aluminum (Al), magnesium (Mg) or any combination thereof; or the molten metal bath comprises aluminum (Al).
  • P3] The molten metal reactor of O3] above, wherein the aluminum (Al) is present in an amount ≥80 wt %, or ≥85 wt %, or ≥90 wt %, or ≥92 wt %, or ≥94 wt %, or ≥96 wt %, ≥98 wt %, or ≥99 wt %, based on the weight of the molten metal bath and/or present in an amount ≤100 wt %, based on the weight of the molten metal bath.
  • Q3] The molten metal reactor of any one of A]-P3] above, wherein the reactor comprises a closed-circuit recirculating system.
  • R3] The molten metal reactor of any one of A]-Q3] above, wherein each physical piece of equipment, used in the reactor, and which comes into contact with the molten metal, is independently coated with a refractory material.
  • S3] The molten metal reactor of R3] above, wherein the refractory material comprises boron nitride.
  • T3] The molten metal reactor of R3] or S3] above, wherein each refractory material is thermally resistant at a temperature of ≥1000° F. (538° C.), or ≥1200° F. (649° C.), or ≥1400° F. (760° C.), or ≥1600° F. (871° C.), or ≥1800° F. (982° C.), or ≥2000° F. (1093° C.).
  • U3] The molten metal reactor of any one of B]-T3] above, wherein the ratio of the inner length of the reactor vessel, including the length of the partition, to the inner width of the reactor vessel, including the width of the partition, or Li/Wiis ≥1.0, or ≥1.2, or ≥1,5, or ≥1.8, or ≥2.0.
  • V3] The molten metal reactor of any one of B]-U3] above, wherein the ratio of the inner length of the reactor vessel, including the length of the partition, to the inner width of the reactor vessel, including the width of the partition, or LI/Wi is ≤4.0, or ≤3.7, or ≤3.5, or ≤3.2, or ≤3.0, or ≤2.8, or ≤2.5.
  • W3] The molten metal reactor of any one of A]-V3] above, wherein the reactor further comprises at least one pump that provides for the circulation of the molten metal bath around the reactor vessel.
  • X3] The molten metal reactor of any one of A]-W3] above, wherein the molten metal bath travels around the perimeter of the reactor vessel in a partially turbulent flow pattern.
  • Y3] The molten metal reactor of any one of A]-X3] above, wherein the molten metal bath travels around the perimeter of the reactor vessel at a speed of ≥0.125 RPM. Here, “1 RPM” means that the total inventory of the molten metal in the reactor will complete a one circuit of the reactor vessel in one minute.
  • Z3] The molten metal reactor of Y3] above, wherein one circuit of the reactor vessel is ≥30 ft (9.1 m), or ≥35 ft (11 m), or ≥40 ft (12 m), or ≥45 ft (14 m), or ≥50 ft (15 m).
  • A4] The molten metal reactor of Y3] or Z3] above, wherein one circuit of the reactor vessel is ≤100 ft (30 m), or ≤95 ft (29 m), or ≤90 ft (27 m), or ≤85 ft (26 m), or ≤80 ft (24 m), or ≤75 ft (23 m), or ≤70 ft (21 m), or ≤65 ft (20 m), or ≤60 ft (18 m).
  • B4] The molten metal reactor of any one of A]-A4] above, wherein, before the reactor is in operation, metal ingots are added to the reactor vessel.
  • C4] The molten metal reactor of B4] above, wherein the metal ingots comprise aluminum (Al), magnesium (Mg), lithium (Li), or any combination thereof; or the metal ingots comprise aluminum (Al), magnesium (Mg) or any combination thereof, or the metal ingots comprise aluminum (Al).
  • D4] The molten metal reactor of B4] or C4] above, wherein at least one gas burner is used to melt the metal ingots.
  • E4] The molten metal reactor of D4] above, wherein the at least one gas burner is installed on a removable plug unit.
  • F4] The molten metal reactor of D4] or E4] above, wherein the at least one gas burner is a natural gas forced air burner.
  • G4] The molten metal reactor of any one of A]-F4] above, wherein the reactor further comprises ≥1 electric resistance heater, or ≥2 electric resistance heaters, or ≥3 electric resistance heaters, or ≥4 electric resistance heaters, or ≥5 electric resistance heaters, or ≥6 electric resistance heaters, or ≥7 electric resistance heaters, or ≥8 electric resistance heaters.
  • H4] The molten metal reactor of any one of A]-G4] above, wherein the reactor further comprises ≤25 electric resistance heaters, or ≤20 electric resistance heaters, or ≤15 electric resistance heaters, or ≤10 electric resistance heaters.
  • I4] The molten metal reactor of G4] or H4] above, wherein the heating element of each heater is inserted vertically into the molten bath.
  • J4] The molten metal reactor of any one of G4]-14] above, wherein each heater is embedded into a removeable plug unit, and further the bottom surface of the plug unit is partially inserted into the molten metal bath.
  • K4] The molten metal reactor of any one of G4]-J4] above, wherein each heater generates ≥5,000 kilowatts, or ≥8,000 kilowatts, or ≥10,000 kilowatts, or ≥12,000 kilowatts, or ≥14,000 kilowatts of electrical power.
  • L4] The molten metal reactor of any one of G4]-K4] above, wherein each heater generates ≤30,000 kilowatts, or ≤25,000 kilowatts, or ≤20,000 kilowatts of electrical power.
  • M4] The molten metal reactor of any one of G4]-L4] above, wherein the electrical power generated by each heater is dissipated as heat into the molten metal bath.
  • N4] The molten metal reactor of any one of R]-M4] above, wherein the reaction of the carbon source with the molten metal bath produces reaction products comprising one or more carbon materials and one or more gases.
  • O4] The molten metal reactor of N4] above, wherein the one or more carbon materials comprise a catenated carbon material.
  • P4] The molten metal reactor of 04] above, wherein the catenated carbon material is a catenated fullerene.
  • Q4] The molten metal reactor of any one of N4]-P4] above, wherein the carbon material is in a particulate form (for example, a flake).
  • R4] The molten metal reactor of any one of N4]-Q4] above, wherein the one or more gases comprise hydrogen (H₂).
  • S4] The molten metal reactor of any one of N4]-R4] above, wherein the product removal assembly is used to remove each of the one or more carbon materials and the one or more gases, each liberated from the molten metal bath; further to remove a majority, by weight, of each of the one or more carbon materials and the one or more gases, each liberated from the molten metal bath.
  • T4] The molten metal reactor of any one of A]-S4] above, wherein the product removal assembly comprises a collection chamber.
  • U4] The molten metal reactor of any one of A]-T4] above, wherein the product removal assembly comprises ≥1 cyclone separator(s), or ≥2 or more cyclone separators, or ≥3 or more cyclone separators.
  • V4] The molten metal reactor of any one of T4] or U4] above, wherein the collection chamber produced a cross-flow ventilation that sweeps the one or more carbon materials and the one or more gases to at least one cyclone separator, or to at least two cyclone separators.
  • W4] The molten metal reactor of any one of T4]-V4] above, wherein the collection chamber comprises one or more blowers.
  • X4] The molten metal reactor of any one of T4]-W4] above, wherein the collection chamber comprises one or more fans; and further each fan is a recirculation fan in the axial position.
  • Y4] The molten metal reactor of any one of U4]-X4] above, wherein each cyclone separator is used to separate the one or more carbon materials from the one or more gases; and further to separate at least a majority (wt %) of the one or more carbon materials from the one or more gases that pass through the cyclone separator.
  • Z4] The molten metal reactor of any one of A]-Y4] above, wherein the product removal assembly comprises at least two cyclone separators in a parallel configuration.
  • A5] The molten metal reactor of Z4] above, wherein the at least two cyclone separators, in a parallel configuration, are each in a series configuration with at least one cyclone separator. See, for example, FIG. 4.
  • B5] The molten metal reactor of any one of A]-A5] above, wherein the product removal assembly comprises one or more drop tubes. See, for example, FIG. 4.
  • C5] The molten metal reactor of any one of V]-B5] above, wherein the at least one inert gas helps to degas the molten metal bath to release one or more trapped gases, from the bath; and further to release hydrogen (H₂) from the bath.

D5] The molten metal reactor of any one of A]-CS] above, wherein slag is produced in the reactor vessel; and further the slag rises to the surface of the molten metal bath.

• • E5] The molten metal reactor of D5] above, wherein the slag comprises one or more metal oxides.
  • F5] The molten metal reactor of any one of A]-E5] above, wherein the reactor further comprises a slag rake assembly.
  • G5] The molten metal reactor of F5] above, wherein the slag rake assembly is used to remove slag from the surface of the molten metal bath.
  • H5] The molten metal reactor of F5] or G5] above, wherein the slag rake assemble comprises a slag rake.
  • I5] The molten metal reactor of H5] above, wherein the slag rake comprises at least one slag paddle device that comprises a slag paddle and a solid rod, and further the slag rake comprises two slag paddle devices.
  • J5] The molten metal reactor of 15] above, wherein the solid rod is formed from a composition comprising at least one metal.
  • K5] The molten metal reactor of 15] or J5] above, wherein a portion of the slag paddle is submerged beneath the surface of the molten metal bath, to collect the slag on the surface of the bath.
  • L5] The molten metal reactor of any one of 15]-K5] above, wherein each slag paddle device travels around a central surface area of the slag rake, when the reactor is in operation.
  • M5] The molten metal reactor of any one of 15]-L5] above, wherein a chain and sprocket mechanism or a pully mechanism is used to move the slag paddle device around a track on the slag rake.
  • N5] The molten metal reactor of any one of 15]-M5] above, wherein the molten metal reactor further comprises an insert, an outlet chamber, and a slag collection container.
  • O5] The molten metal reactor of N5] above, wherein the outlet chamber comprises an outlet door.
  • P5] The molten metal reactor of N5] or 05] above, wherein the slag paddle transports the slag along the insert to the outlet chamber.
  • Q5] The molten metal reactor of 05] or P5] above, wherein the outlet door is located at the bottom of the outlet chamber.
  • R5] The molten metal reactor of any one of OS]-Q5] above, wherein the outlet door opens when in contact with the slag, and the slag drops into the slag collection container.
  • S5] The molten metal reactor of any one of F5]-RS] above, wherein there is no headspace above the molten metal bath, apart from the area under the collection chamber and the area under the slag rake assembly.
  • T5] The molten metal reactor of any one of A]-S5] above, wherein the reactor further comprises a lauder makeup vessel and a transfer pump.
  • U5] The molten metal reactor of T5] above, wherein the lauder makeup vessel and the transfer pump are used to supply makeup molten metal to the molten metal bath in the reactor vessel.
  • V5] The molten metal reactor of any one of R4]-U5] above, wherein the hydrogen is separated and collected.
  • W5] The molten metal reactor of V5] above, wherein the hydrogen is separated using a device comprising a selective permeation membrane.
  • X5] The molten metal reactor of V5] or W5] above, wherein the hydrogen flows through a vent in a collection chamber, and further the collection chamber of the product removal assembly.
  • Y5] The molten metal reactor of any one of R]-X5] above, wherein the at least one carbon source is fed to the reactor using an on-line feed system.
  • Z5] The molten metal reactor of any one of V]-Y5] above, wherein the at least one inert gas is fed to the reactor using an on-line feed system.
  • A6] The molten metal reactor of any one of U4]-Z5] above, wherein the product removal assembly is used to remove the one or more carbon materials and the one or more gases, each liberated from the molten metal bath; further to remove a majority, by weight, of each of the one or more carbon materials and the one or more gases, each liberated from the molten metal bath; and the product removal assembly comprises ≥1 cyclone separator(s), or ≥2 or more cyclone separators, or ≥3 or more cyclone separators; and wherein each cyclone separator is used to separate the one or more carbon materials from the one or more gases.
  • A7] A process to prepare a composition comprising a carbon material, the process comprising adding a carbon source to the molten metal reactor of any one of A]-A6] above.
  • B7] The process of A7] above, wherein the carbon material is present in an amount ≥80 wt %, or ≥85 wt %, or ≥90 wt %, or ≥92 wt %, or ≥94 wt %, or ≥96 wt %, ≥98 wt %, or ≥99 wt %, based on the weight of the composition and/or present in an amount ≤100 wt %, based on the weight of the composition.
  • C7] The process of A7] or B7] above, wherein the carbon material is a catenated carbon material.
  • D7] The process of C7] above, wherein the catenated carbon material is a catenated fullerene.
  • E7] A composition comprising a carbon material, and wherein the composition is formed using the molten metal reactor of any one of A]-A6] above.
  • F7] The composition of E7] above, wherein the carbon material is present in an amount ≥80 wt %, or ≥85 wt %, or ≥90 wt %, or ≥92 wt %, or ≥94 wt %, or ≥96 wt %, ≥98 wt %, or ≥99 wt %, based on the weight of the composition and/or present in an amount ≤100 wt %, based on the weight of the composition.
  • G7] The composition of E7] or F7] above, wherein the carbon material is a catenated carbon material.
  • H7] The composition of G7] above, wherein the catenated carbon material is a catenated fullerene.
  • I7] An article comprising at least one component formed from the composition of any one of E7]-H7] above.
  • J7] A composition comprising a carbon material, and wherein the composition is formed from the process of any one of A7]-D7] above.
  • K7] The composition of J7] above, wherein the carbon material is present in an amount ≥80 wt %, or ≥85 wt %, or ≥90 wt %, or ≥92 wt %, or ≥94 wt %, or ≥96 wt %, ≥98 wt %, or ≥99 wt %, based on the weight of the composition and/or present in an amount ≤100 wt %, based on the weight of the composition.
  • L7] The composition of J7] or K7] above, wherein the carbon material is a catenated carbon material.
  • M7] The composition of L7] above, wherein the catenated carbon material is a catenated fullerene.
  • N7] An article comprising at least one component formed from the composition of any one of J7]-M7] above.

EXPERIMENTAL

A molten bath reaction may be run in accordance with, for example, FIGS. 1, 3, 4 (slag rake optional), 10 (optional) and 16-18.

Note, a molten aluminum bath may be used, and the molten metal bath is already established, and in a “phase 3” operational mode. Composition of molten metal bath is ≥99 wt % Al, based on the weight of the molten metal. The reagents are as follows:

Acetylene gas with a purity of ≥99 vol %, based on the volume of acetylene gas used. See, for example, Airgas products.

Argon gas with a purity of ≥99 vol %, based on the volume of argon gas used. See, for example, Airgas products.

Injection flow rate of the acetylene gas of 10 L/min, at a pressure (gas back pressure) of about 4.0 psi or higher.

Injection flow rate of the argon gas of 10 L/min, at a pressure gas back pressure of about 4.0 psi or higher. The reactor is purged with argon gas, and this purge remains throughout the operation of the reactor.

Injection assembly see FIGS. 16-18. A thermocouple will be placed in the injection assembly to ensure the assembly is operating properly and there are no blockages.

The ratio of the volume of the argon injected into the molten metal bath (V_AR) to the volume of acetylene injected into the molten metal bath (VAC) or VAR/VAC =1.0.

Description of partition-longitudinal partition that is centered in the reaction vessel.

The L_I/W_I ratio of reactor vessel (including the partition) =2.5.

The exposed surfaces of the reactor vessel are covered with one or more plug units. Each component of the reactor that comes into contact with the molten metal bath is independently coated with a refractory, such as boron nitride.

At least one circulation pump.

Four electric resistance heater, each generating 17,000 kilowatts of electrical power. The heating element of each heater is inserted into the molten metal bath to minimize heat dissipation to areas outside the reactor vessel.

Product removal assembly—see FIG. 4. Three cyclone separators (two in parallel configuration and the last in series configuration) and three drop tubes. A thermocouple will be placed inside the collection chamber.

Temperature (T1) of the molten metal in the reactor vessel is around 1450° F. to 1500° F. (788° C. to 816° C.). Temperature T1 is the average temperature of the temperatures noted on the following thermocouples: a) four thermocouples located on each corner of the reactor vessel, b) one thermocouple located downstream from the injection port, and c) two thermocouples located within the bath, near the inlet and outlet, respectively, of the circulation pump.

The speed the molten metal bath travels around the of the reactor vessel =0.2 RPM (one circuit of the “total inventory of the molten metal in the reactor vessel” in 1 minute.

As discussed, plug units are used to cover all the open areas above the molten metal bath. Note a slag rake assembly can be used to remove slag—see FIGS. 4 and 10.

The carbon material(s) produced from the reaction of acetylene with the molten metal will be collected in the collection barrels and in the drop tubes (see FIG. 4). Gaseous product(s), other than argon, may be released via a vent in the collection chamber, and may be collected using other devices. During the reaction, the reaction products rise to the surface of the bath and are carried along with the purge gas (argon) to the collection chamber. The cross-flow ventilation in the collection chamber sweeps the products towards the two cyclone separators, arranged in a parallel configuration. Each separator uses a vortex separation and/or a centripetal force to transport the particles to a respective collection barrel. These two cyclone separators discharge into a third cyclone separator to assure a maximum collection of the airborne particles. In addition, downstream, three drop tubes assist in scavenging the remainder of the fugitive particles, prior to recirculation of the purge gas (argon) to an axial circulating fan and then to the inlet of the collection chamber. As discussed, gases other than the inert gas (argon) may be separated via a vent in the collection chamber, and may be collected using other devices.

Note, each thermocouple output will be recorded with a video display of the operating parameters. Operating set points will be established, and the data collected will control the power output of the heaters, pumps and fans used, to maintain the molten aluminum at the desired temperature.

The above described embodiments are intended to illustrate the principles of the reactors and processes described herein, but not to limit the scope of the invention. Various other embodiments and modifications to these embodiments may be made by those skilled in the art, without departing from the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. A molten metal reactor comprising at least the following components a) through c): a) a reactor vessel comprising a molten metal bath,b) an injection assembly, andc) a product removal assembly.

2. The molten metal reactor of claim 1, wherein the reactor further comprises a partition located within the reactor vessel.

3. The molten metal reactor of claim 1, wherein the reactor further comprises ≥1 plug unit(s).

4. The molten metal reactor of claim 3, wherein each plug unit is used to seal in a positive pressure, inert gas purge, to reduce the amount of oxygen that can leak into the reactor.

5. The molten metal reactor of claim 3, wherein each plug unit is removable.

6. The molten metal reactor of claim 3, wherein the bottom surface of each plug unit is inserted into the molten metal bath.

7. The molten metal reactor of claim 3, wherein each plug unit is over an open surface of the reactor vessel when the reactor is in operation.

8. The molten metal reactor of claim 1 wherein the injection assembly is located on a plug unit.

9. The molten metal reactor of claim 1, wherein the injection assembly comprises ≥1 injection device(s).

10. The molten metal reactor of claim 9, wherein at least one injection device is used to inject at least one carbon source into the molten metal bath.

11. The molten metal reactor of claim 10, wherein the at least one carbon source is at least one hydrocarbon.

12. The molten metal reactor of claim 9, wherein at least one injection device is used to inject at least one inert gas into the molten metal bath.

13. The molten metal reactor of claim 12, wherein the at least one inert gas is argon.

14. The molten metal reactor of claim 9, wherein a portion of each injection device is inserted beneath the surface of the molten metal bath, at an angle relative to the base surface of a plug unit.

15. The molten metal reactor of claim 14, wherein the angle is from 35 degrees to 60 degrees, relative to the base surface of the plug unit.

16. The molten metal reactor of claim 1, wherein the molten metal of the molten metal bath comprises aluminum (Al), magnesium (Mg), lithium (Li), or any combination thereof.

17. The molten metal reactor of claim 1, wherein the molten metal of the molten metal bath comprises aluminum (Al), magnesium (Mg) or any combination thereof.

18. The molten metal reactor of claim 1, wherein the molten metal of the molten metal bath comprises aluminum (Al).

19. The molten metal reactor of claim 1, wherein the reactor comprises a closed-circuit recirculating system.

20. The molten metal reactor of claim 1, wherein the reactor further comprises from 1 to 25 electric resistance heaters.

21. The molten metal reactor of claim 20, wherein the heating element of each heater is inserted vertically into the molten bath.

22. The molten metal reactor of claim 20, wherein the electrical power generated by each heater is dissipated as heat into the molten metal bath.