Patent Application
20240076964
The present invention relates to the field of treating fluids using electrolysis.
There are many problems associated with the production of oil and gas resources. For example, it is very common for oil production wells to reach the end of their life, while there is still a substantial amount of oil in place (OIP) within the formation. Engineers may then to decide whether to shut in the well or stimulate the well using enhanced oil recovery (EOR) methods ranging from water flooding to steam flooding to injection of carbon dioxide and injection of solvents.
Likewise, even during peak production of a well, a well may have to be shut in due to paraffin plugging the production tubing. This can cause several problems ranging from reduced production to parting or breaking of the sucker rod connected to the surface pump jack.
Another problem associated with most oil and gas wells is produced water. When the water reaches the surface it is separated from the oil or gas and then must be treated prior to final disposition.
Recently, primarily due to high crude oil prices many exploration companies are turning to unconventional heavy oil resources (API<22) such as oil sand bitumen, oil shale kerogen as well as heavy oil itself. Canada contains the largest known oil sand reserves estimated at over 1 trillion recoverable barrels of bitumen. Likewise, the largest known unconventional petroleum or hydrocarbon resource can be found in the Green River Formation in Colorado, Wyoming and Utah. Worldwide oil shale reserves are estimated around 2.9-3.3 trillion barrels of shale oil while the Green River Formation reserves alone are estimated to contain between 1.5-2.6 trillion barrels.
However, emerging issues with respect to the renewed interest in oil shale development range from water resources, to green house gas emissions to basic infrastructure needs. Likewise, the Canadian oil sands has its own problems ranging from very large tailings ponds to a lack of upgrading capacity for the bitumen recovered from the oil sands. In addition, the steam assisted gravity drainage (SAGD) process utilizes copious amounts of energy to produce steam. Two problems associated with producing steam are first the source of water and removing its contaminants that may be deposited upon boiler tube walls and second recovering the latent heat within the steam when injected downhole.
Likewise, there are many proponents suggesting CO2 injection as means for recovering heavy oil, oil sand and oil shale. As recently as Apr. 4, 2007 Schlumberger's scientific advisor on CO2, T. S. (Rama) Ramakrishnan has stated, “The research for efficient heavy oil recovery is still wide open. Steam flooding is the tried and trusted method, but we need to move forward. Having said that, I do not think advances will come about by refining current practices or expanding an existing research pilot—we need a step-change vis-à-vis enhancing heavy oil recovery. Oil at $60/bbl should be enough to provide the impetus.”
Shell Oil Company has been demonstrating its freeze-wall and in situ conversion process (ICP) for recovering kerogen from the Green River Formation located in Colorado's Piceance Basin. Although Shell has patented various aspects of the process, two of the impediments to large volume production of oil shale using ICP are the type of downhole heater and the formation's constituents. U.S. Pat. No. 7,086,468 and the family of other patents and published patent applications based on U.S. Provisional Patent Application Nos. 60/199,213 (Apr. 24, 2000), 60/199,214 (Apr. 24, 2000) and 60/199,215 (Apr. 24, 2000) provide detailed descriptions of the various prior art aboveground and in situ methods of retorting oil shale, all of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. Moreover, updated information regarding aboveground and in situ methods of retorting oil shale in the Green River Formation are described in “Converting Green River oil shale to liquid fuels with Alberta Taciuk Processor: energy inputs and greenhouse gas emissions” by Adam R Brandt (Jun. 1, 2007) and “Converting Green River oil shale to liquid fuels with the Shell in-situ conversion process: energy inputs and greenhouse gas emissions” by Adam R Brandt (Jun. 30, 2007), both of which are available at http://abrandt.berkeley.edu/shale/shale.html and are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.
What is unique about the Green River Formation oil shale is that it has a high content of Nahcolite. Nahcolite is commonly referred to as baking soda which is sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3). Another active player in oil shale development, ExxonMobil, has developed an in situ conversion process for oil shale that is rich in Nahcolite. The process incorporates recovering kerogen while converting sodium bicarbonate or Nahcolite to sodium carbonate. ExxonMobil claims that the pyrolysis of the oil shale should enhance leaching and removal of sodium carbonate during solution mining.
Now, returning back to Shell's ICP for oil shale, the two largest problems to overcome are that baking soda can be used as a heating insulator and that oil shale is not very permeable. Thus using conventional heat transfer methods such as conduction and convection require a long period of time in addition to drilling many wells and incorporating many heaters close to one another.
Although in situ processes are rapidly developing for both oil shale and oil sands, surface processing is currently the leader for oil sands. Retorting of oil shale has been around since the early 1970's. Recently, retorting has been applied to oil sands. Once again the major problem with retorting either oil sand or oil shale is that the minerals and metals act to retard heat transfer. However, the single largest difference between oil shale and oil sand is that sodium carbonate is a known electrolyte. Likewise, oil sand contains electrolytes in the form of other salts.
While melting oil shale in a carbon crucible the inventor of the present invention has recently unexpectedly discovered a method for carbonizing oil shale with plasma electrolysis while simultaneously separating solids, liquids and gases. The process is based upon using the same mineral that is widespread in the Green River Formation—Baking Soda.
One embodiment of the present invention provides an insertable plasma electrolysis apparatus comprising a first non-conductive plate having a first outlet and a second outlet; a first cylindrical conductive screen extending below the first non-conductive plate proximate to the first outlet such that a inner diameter of the first cylindrical conductive screen is greater than or equal to an inner diameter of the first outlet; a cylindrical non-conductive tube extending below the first non-conductive plate such that the cylindrical non-conductive tube is disposed around the first cylindrical conductive screen with a first substantially equidistant gap between the first cylindrical conductive screen and the cylindrical non-conductive tube; a second cylindrical conductive screen extending below the first non-conductive plate such that the second cylindrical conductive screen is disposed around the cylindrical non-conductive tube with a second substantially equidistant gap between the cylindrical non-conductive tube and the second cylindrical conductive screen; the second outlet is either disposed between the cylindrical non-conductive tube and the second cylindrical conductive screen or outside of the second cylindrical conductive screen; a first electrical terminal coupled to the first cylindrical conductive screen; a second electrical terminal coupled to the second cylindrical conductive screen; and wherein a length of the first cylindrical conductive screen is less that a length of the second cylindrical conductive screen, and a length of the cylindrical non-conductive tube is greater than the length of the second cylindrical conductive screen.
In one aspect, the apparatus is configured to be inserted into a vessel, pipe, conduit, column, tank, well or any structure that holds a fluid to form a closed system. In another aspect, the first cylindrical conductive screen comprises a cathode and the second cylindrical conductive screen comprises an anode. In another aspect, the first cylindrical conductive screen is substantially aligned with a longitudinal axis of the first outlet. In another aspect, the first outlet and the second outlet extend above a top of the first non-conductive plate. In another aspect, the first electrical terminal is connected to the first outlet, and the first outlet is electrically conductive and attached to the first cylindrical conductive screen, and the second electrical terminal is connected to the second outlet, and the second outlet is electrically conductive and attached to the second cylindrical conductive screen. In another aspect, a second non-conductive plate is attached above or below the first non-conductive plate. In another aspect, the first cylindrical conductive screen is attached to the second non-conductive plate. In another aspect, the cylindrical non-conductive tube is attached to the second non-conductive plate. In another aspect, the second cylindrical conductive screen is attached to the second non-conductive plate. In another aspect, the cylindrical non-conductive tube comprises a third cylindrical non-conductive tube, and further comprising: a first cylindrical non-conductive tube attached to a bottom of the first cylindrical conductive screen or an extension of the first cylindrical conductive screen that is coated with a non-conductive material; a second cylindrical non-conductive tube attached to a bottom of the second cylindrical screen or an extension of the second cylindrical conductive screen that is coated with the non-conductive material; and a third non-conductive plate attached to a bottom of the first cylindrical non-conductive tube or a bottom of the extension of the first cylindrical conductive screen, a bottom of the second cylindrical non-conductive tube or a bottom of the extension of the second cylindrical conductive screen, wherein a third gap is formed between the third non-conductive plate and a bottom of the third cylindrical non-conductive tube. In another aspect, an opening is disposed in the third non-conductive plate and connected to the first cylindrical tube. In another aspect, a non-conductive granular material is disposed partially or completely within the first substantially equidistant gap and the second substantially equidistant gap. In another aspect, the non-conductive granular material (a) does not pass through the first cylindrical conductive screen and the second cylindrical conductive screen, (b) allows an electrically conductive fluid to flow between the first cylindrical conductive screen and the second cylindrical conductive screen, and (c) prevents electrical arcing between the first and second cylindrical conductive. In another aspect, the non-conductive granular material comprises marbles, ceramic beads, molecular sieve media, sand, limestone, activated carbon, zeolite, zirconium, alumina, rock salt, nut shell or wood chips.
Another embodiment of the present invention provides a plasma electrolysis apparatus comprising: a vessel; a first non-conductive plate having a first outlet and a second outlet, wherein the first non-conductive plate is attached to a top of the vessel; a first cylindrical conductive screen extending below the first non-conductive plate proximate to the first outlet such that a inner diameter of the first cylindrical conductive screen is greater than or equal to an inner diameter of the first outlet; a cylindrical non-conductive tube extending below the first non-conductive plate such that the cylindrical non-conductive tube is disposed around the first cylindrical conductive screen with a first substantially equidistant gap between the first cylindrical conductive screen and the cylindrical non-conductive tube; a second cylindrical conductive screen extending below the first non-conductive plate such that the second cylindrical conductive screen is disposed around the cylindrical non-conductive tube with a second substantially equidistant gap between the cylindrical non-conductive tube and the second cylindrical conductive screen; the second outlet is either disposed between the cylindrical non-conductive tube and the second cylindrical conductive screen or outside of the second cylindrical conductive screen; a first electrical terminal coupled to the first cylindrical conductive screen; a second electrical terminal coupled to the second cylindrical conductive screen; wherein a length of the first cylindrical conductive screen is less that a length of the second cylindrical conductive screen, and a length of the cylindrical non-conductive tube is greater than the length of the second cylindrical conductive screen; a non-conductive granular material disposed partially or completely within vessel, the first substantially equidistant gap, and the second substantially equidistant gap; a first vessel inlet or outlet disposed in a side of the vessel; a second vessel inlet or outlet disposed in a bottom of the vessel or the side of the vessel proximate to the bottom of the vessel; and one or more screens or filters disposed within or proximate to the first vessel inlet or outlet and the second vessel inlet or outlet, wherein the non-conductive granular material does not pass through the one or more screens or filters.
In one aspect, an electrically conductive fluid is disposed within the vessel. In another aspect, the electrically conductive fluid comprises water, produced water, wastewater or tailings pond water. In another aspect, the electrically conductive fluid comprises a fluid containing an electrolyte. In another aspect, the electrolyte comprises baking soda, Nahcolite, lime, sodium chloride, ammonium sulfate, sodium sulfate or carbonic acid. In another aspect, an electrolysis is created whenever the first electrical terminal is connected to an electrical power supply such that the first electrically conductive screen has a first polarity, the second electrical terminal is connected to the electrical power supply such that the second electrically conductive screen has a second polarity, and the electrically conductive fluid is introduced into the first and second substantially equidistant gaps. In another aspect, hydrogen exits the first outlet and an oxidant outlet exits the second outlet. In another aspect, the first electrically conductive screen or the second electrically conductive screen reaches a temperature of at least 500° C., 1000° C., or 2000° C. during the electrolysis. In another aspect, once the electrolysis is created, the electrolysis is maintained without the electrically conductive fluid. In another aspect, the vessel comprises a pipe, conduit, column, tank, well or any structure that holds a fluid to form a closed system. In another aspect, a power supply is electrically coupled to the first cylindrical conductive screen and the second cylindrical conductive screen. In another aspect, the electrical power supply operates in a range from 50 to 500 volts DC, or 200 to 400 volts DC. In another aspect, first cylindrical conductive screen comprises a cathode and the second cylindrical conductive screen comprises and anode. In another aspect, one or more sensors monitor one or more parameters within the vessel. In another aspect, the apparatus includes an eductor having a first inlet, a second inlet and an outlet, wherein the outlet is coupled to the second vessel inlet or outlet; a pump coupled to the first inlet of the eductor; and a control valve coupled to the second inlet of the eductor. In another aspect, an electrically conductive tube having a porous tip is disposed within the first outlet and extending into the vessel beyond the length of the first cylindrical conductive screen. In another aspect, an electrolysis is created whenever the electrically conductive tube is connected to an electrical power supply such that the electrically conductive tube has a first polarity, the second electrical terminal is connected to the electrical power supply such that the second electrically conductive screen has a second polarity, and an electrically conductive fluid is introduced into the first and second substantially equidistant gaps; and carbon monoxide exits the first output when carbon dioxide is introduced into the electrically conductive tube.
Another embodiment of the present invention provides a method for creating electrolysis comprising: providing a plasma electrolysis apparatus comprising: a vessel, a first non-conductive plate having a first outlet and a second outlet, wherein the first non-conductive plate is attached to a top of the vessel, a first cylindrical conductive screen extending below the first non-conductive plate proximate to the first outlet such that a inner diameter of the first cylindrical conductive screen is greater than or equal to an inner diameter of the first outlet, a cylindrical non-conductive tube extending below the first non-conductive plate such that the cylindrical non-conductive tube is disposed around the first cylindrical conductive screen with a first substantially equidistant gap between the first cylindrical conductive screen and the cylindrical non-conductive tube, a second cylindrical conductive screen extending below the first non-conductive plate such that the second cylindrical conductive screen is disposed around the cylindrical non-conductive tube with a second substantially equidistant gap between the cylindrical non-conductive tube and the second cylindrical conductive screen, the second outlet is either disposed between the cylindrical non-conductive tube and the second cylindrical conductive screen or outside of the second cylindrical conductive screen, a first electrical terminal coupled to the first cylindrical conductive screen, a second electrical terminal coupled to the second cylindrical conductive screen, wherein a length of the first cylindrical conductive screen is less that a length of the second cylindrical conductive screen, and a length of the cylindrical non-conductive tube is greater than the length of the second cylindrical conductive screen; a non-conductive granular material disposed partially or completely within vessel, the first substantially equidistant gap, and the second substantially equidistant gap, a first vessel inlet or outlet disposed in a side of the vessel, a second vessel inlet or outlet disposed in a bottom of the vessel or the side of the vessel proximate to the bottom of the vessel, and one or more screens or filters disposed within or proximate to the first vessel inlet or outlet and the second vessel inlet or outlet, wherein the non-conductive granular material does not pass through the one or more screens or filters; connecting the first and second electrical terminals to an electrical power supply such that the first electrically conductive screen has a first polarity, and the second electrically conductive screen has a second polarity; and creating the electrolysis by introducing an electrically conductive fluid into the first and second substantially equidistant gaps.
In one aspect, the electrically conductive fluid comprises water, produced water, wastewater or tailings pond water. In another aspect, the electrically conductive fluid comprises a fluid containing an electrolyte. In another aspect, the electrolyte comprises baking soda, Nahcolite, lime, sodium chloride, ammonium sulfate, sodium sulfate or carbonic acid. In another aspect, hydrogen exits the first outlet and an oxidant outlet exits the second outlet. In another aspect, the first electrically conductive screen or the second electrically conductive screen reaches a temperature of at least 500° C., 1000° C., or 2000° C. during the electrolysis. In another aspect, once the electrolysis is created, the electrolysis is maintained without the electrically conductive fluid. In another aspect, the vessel comprises a pipe, conduit, column, tank, well or any structure that holds a fluid to form a closed system. In another aspect, the electrical power supply operates in a range from 50 to 500 volts DC, or 200 to 400 volts DC. In another aspect, the first cylindrical conductive screen comprises a cathode and the second cylindrical conductive screen comprises and anode. In another aspect, one or more sensors monitor one or more parameters within the vessel. In another aspect, the apparatus includes an eductor having a first inlet, a second inlet and an outlet, wherein the outlet is coupled to the second vessel inlet or outlet; a pump coupled to the first inlet of the eductor; and a control valve coupled to the second inlet of the eductor. In another aspect, an electrically conductive tube having a porous tip is disposed within the first outlet and extends into the vessel beyond the length of the first cylindrical conductive screen. In another aspect, the method includes producing carbon monoxide from the first output by introducing carbon dioxide into the electrically conductive tube.
Various embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.
The above and further advantages of the invention may be better understood by referring to the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:
While the making and using of various embodiments of the present invention are discussed in detail below, it should be appreciated that the present invention provides many applicable inventive concepts that can be embodied in a wide variety of specific contexts. The specific embodiments discussed herein are merely illustrative of specific ways to make and use the invention and do not delimit the scope of the invention.
It will be understood that the terms plasma electrolysis, glow discharge, glow discharge plasma and electrochemical plasma will be used interchangeably throughout this disclosure. Likewise, it will be understood that plasma electrolysis is substantially different and clearly differentiated within the art from traditional electrolysis or simple electrochemical reactions commonly referred to as REDOX (reduction oxidation) reactions. In plasma electrolysis a “plasma” is formed and maintained around the cathode which is surrounded by an electrolyte thus allowing for high temperature reactions such as gasification, cracking, thermolysis and pyrolysis to occur at or near the plasma interface. The circuit is thus completed from the cathode through the plasma and into the bulk liquid.
Turning now to
The DC power supply was operated at 300 volts DC in order to get the electrically conductive water and baking soda solution (an ionic liquid or electrolyte) to arc over and form a glow discharge irradiating from the negative (−) graphite electrode. Within seconds the glow discharge, also commonly referred to as electrochemical plasma or plasma electrolysis was formed around the negative (−) cathode graphite electrode.
The plasma electrolysis cell was operated for one minute. The cathode was extracted from the cell and the carbon was glowing orange hot. The estimated surface temperature on the carbon cathode ranged from 1,000° C. to over 2,000° C. The color of the glow discharge plasma was orange. This is very typical of the emission spectra of a high pressure sodium lamp commonly found in street lights. Hence the use of baking soda, sodium hydrogen carbonate, which caused the orange plasma glow discharge.
The cell was shut down and allowed to cool. Immediately upon removing a piece of oil shale from the crucible a noticeable color change occurred on the outside of the normally grey oil shale. The shale was completely black. All the pieces of shale were covered in a black coke like substance. What occurred next was completely unexpected after crushing a piece of plasma electrolysis treated oil shale. The shale was internally carbonized up to ½ inch from the surface.
This simple procedure opens the door to a new process for enhanced recovery of unconventional fossil fuels such as heavy oil, oil sands and oil shale. Referring again to
As shown in
The non-conductive granular material may include marbles, ceramic beads, molecular sieve media, sand, limestone, activated carbon, zeolite, zirconium, alumina, rock salt, nut shell or wood chips. The electrically conductive screens can be flat, tubular, elliptical, conical or curved. The apparatus can be installed within a conduit, pipeline, flow line, stripper column, reactor, a well or a well screen. In addition, the apparatus can be protected by a non-conductive rotating sleeve or a non-conductive screen. The electrical power supply can operate in a range from (a) 50 to 500 volts DC, or (b) 200 to 400 volts DC. The cathode can reach a temperature of (a) at least 500° C., (b) at least 1000° C., or (c) at least 2000° C. during the electric glow discharge. Note that once the electric glow discharge is created, the electric glow discharge is maintained without the electrically conductive fluid. The electrically conductive fluid can be water, produced water, wastewater or tailings pond water. An electrolyte, such as baking soda, Nahcolite, lime, sodium chloride, ammonium sulfate, sodium sulfate or carbonic acid, can be added to the electrically conductive fluid. The apparatus can be used as to heat or fracture a subterranean formation containing bitumen, kerogen or petroleum. The subterranean formation may contain oil shale or oil sand.
In addition, the present invention provides a method for creating an electric glow discharge by providing an electric glow apparatus, introducing an electrically conductive fluid into the gap, and connecting the electrical terminals to an electrical power supply such that the first electrically conductive screen is a cathode and the second electrically conductive screen is an anode. The electric glow discharge apparatus includes a first electrically conductive screen, a second electrically conductive screen, one or more insulators attached to the first electrically conductive screen and the second electrically conductive screen, a non-conductive granular material disposed within the gap, a first electrical terminal electrically connected to the first electrically conductive screen, and a second electrical terminal electrically connected to the second electrically conductive screen. The insulator(s) maintain a substantially equidistant gap between the first electrically conductive screen and the second electrically conductive screen. The non-conductive granular material (a) does not pass through either electrically conductive screen, (b) allows an electrically conductive fluid to flow between the first electrically conductive screen and the second electrically conductive screen, and (c) prevents electrical arcing between the electrically conductive screens during the electric glow discharge. The electric glow discharge is created whenever: (a) the first electrical terminal is connected to an electrical power source such that the first electrically conductive screen is a cathode, the second electrical terminal is connected to the electrical power supply such that the second electrically conductive screen is an anode, and the electrically conductive fluid is introduced into the gap, or (b) the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal are both connected to the electrical power supply such that both electrically conductive screens are the cathode, and the electrically conductive fluid is introduced between both electrically conductive screens and an external anode connected to the electrical power supply.
Moreover, the present invention provides a method for creating an electric glow discharge by providing an electric glow apparatus, introducing an electrically conductive fluid into the gap, connecting the electrical terminals to an electrical power supply such that the both electrically conductive screens are the cathode and the second electrically conductive screen is an anode, and connecting an external anode to the electrical power supply. The electric glow discharge apparatus includes a first electrically conductive screen, a second electrically conductive screen, one or more insulators attached to the first electrically conductive screen and the second electrically conductive screen, a non-conductive granular material disposed within the gap, a first electrical terminal electrically connected to the first electrically conductive screen, and a second electrical terminal electrically connected to the second electrically conductive screen. The insulator(s) maintain a substantially equidistant gap between the first electrically conductive screen and the second electrically conductive screen. The non-conductive granular material (a) does not pass through either electrically conductive screen, (b) allows an electrically conductive fluid to flow between the first electrically conductive screen and the second electrically conductive screen, and (c) prevents electrical arcing between the electrically conductive screens during the electric glow discharge. The electric glow discharge is created whenever: (a) the first electrical terminal is connected to an electrical power source such that the first electrically conductive screen is a cathode, the second electrical terminal is connected to the electrical power supply such that the second electrically conductive screen is an anode, and the electrically conductive fluid is introduced into the gap, or (b) the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal are both connected to the electrical power supply such that both electrically conductive screens are the cathode, and the electrically conductive fluid is introduced between both electrically conductive screens and an external anode connected to the electrical power supply.
The present invention also provides a system for creating an electric glow discharge that includes a power supply, a first electrically conductive screen, a second electrically conductive screen, one or more insulators attached to the first electrically conductive screen and the second electrically conductive screen, a non-conductive granular material disposed within the gap, a first electrical terminal electrically connected to the first electrically conductive screen, and a second electrical terminal electrically connected to the second electrically conductive screen. The insulator(s) maintain a substantially equidistant gap between the first electrically conductive screen and the second electrically conductive screen. The non-conductive granular material (a) does not pass through either electrically conductive screen, (b) allows an electrically conductive fluid to flow between the first electrically conductive screen and the second electrically conductive screen, and (c) prevents electrical arcing between the electrically conductive screens during the electric glow discharge. The electric glow discharge is created whenever: (a) the first electrical terminal is connected to an electrical power source such that the first electrically conductive screen is a cathode, the second electrical terminal is connected to the electrical power supply such that the second electrically conductive screen is an anode, and the electrically conductive fluid is introduced into the gap, or (b) the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal are both connected to the electrical power supply such that both electrically conductive screens are the cathode, and the electrically conductive fluid is introduced between both electrically conductive screens and an external anode connected to the electrical power supply.
Turning now to
In order to complete the electrical circuit between the vertical injection well and the horizontal production well, the horizontal well may be drilled such that a continuous bore is formed between both the vertical and horizontal wells. This is common for running a pipeline underneath a river or underneath a road. Whether the vertical well or horizontal well is utilized as the cathode an important and necessary disclosure is that the surface area for the cathode must be maximized in order to carry a sufficient current through the electrolyte which of course completes the electrical circuit.
There are many ways to maximize surface area, however the inventor of the present invention will disclose the best mode for maximizing cathode surface area. The graphite electrode as shown in
This disclosure is unique and unobvious in that it allows every oil and gas well, worldwide, to be converted into an in situ upgrader or heater treater. Referring to
In addition, it is well known that plasma electrolysis will produce hydrogen. Not being bound by theory, it is believed that bound sulfur species within crude oil may be converted to hydrogen sulfide when flowed through the PLASMA ELECTROLYSIS WELL SCREEN™. The H2S can easily be separated from the crude oil with surface separation equipment.
The PLASMA ELECTROLYSIS WELL SCREEN™ can be utilized to fracture wells. For example, since electrolysis generates gases and plasma dramatically increases the temperature of the fluid, the production string simply needs to be filled with an electrolyte. Next, the well head can be shut in. When the DC power supply is energized, a glow discharge will be formed on the cathode. This will increase the pressure and temperature of the fluid while generating gases. The pressure will be released as the formation is fractured, thus more electrolyte may be added to the production string. This process may be very applicable to fracturing horizontal wells as shown in
Referring to
The oil shale will be carbonized in situ, thus allowing only light hydrocarbons and hydrogen to be produced with the electrolyte. Of course, it will be understood that the electrolyte may be recirculated to minimize water usage. Upon reaching the surface the produced water and shale oil may be further treated and separated with an invention of the present inventor's referred to as the ARCWHIRL™. Not being bound by theory, this process enables carbon sequestration to become a true reality by carbonizing the oil shale, thus minimizing the production of hydrocarbons while maximizing the production of hydrogen. Also, this process enables the hydrogen economy to become a reality utilizing the largest known fossil fuel reserves in the world—oil shale—while allowing the United States to become independent from foreign oil imports.
Different embodiments of the invention described above are also illustrated in the
Alternatively, the EGD assembly 900 could be integrated into the fluid transfer device, as long as the first conductive filter screen 904 and the second conductive filter screen 906 are electrically isolated from each other and any electrically conductive components. Moreover, the EGD assembly 900 can be equipped with one or more sensors communicably coupled to a control or monitoring unit/system. In some embodiments, the first and second conductive filter screens 904 and 906 along with the non-conductive granular material 912 can be removed without removing the entire EGD assembly 900.
Accordingly, the apparatus for creating an electric glow discharge comprises: a non-conductive housing having a longitudinal axis, a first opening aligned with the longitudinal axis, and a second opening aligned with the longitudinal axis and opposite the first opening; a first electrically conductive screen disposed proximate to the first opening of the housing and substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis; a second electrically conductive screen disposed proximate to the second opening of the housing and substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, wherein the second electrically conductive screen separated from the first electrically conductive screen by a substantially equidistant gap; a non-conductive granular material disposed within the substantially equidistant gap; a first electrical terminal electrically connected to the first electrically conductive screen and disposed on an exterior of the housing; a second electrical terminal electrically connected to the second electrically conductive screen and disposed on an exterior of the housing; and wherein the electric glow discharge is created whenever the first electrical terminal is connected to an electrical power supply such that the first electrically conductive screen has a first polarity, the second electrical terminal is connected to the electrical power supply such that the second electrically conductive screen has a second polarity, and an electrically conductive fluid is introduced into the substantially equidistant gap.
In one aspect, the non-conductive granular material (a) does not pass through either electrically conductive screen, (b) allows the electrically conductive fluid to flow between the first electrically conductive screen and the second electrically conductive screen, and (c) prevents electrical arcing between the electrically conductive screens during the electric glow discharge. In another aspect, the non-conductive granular material comprises marbles, ceramic beads, molecular sieve media, sand, limestone, activated carbon, zeolite, zirconium, alumina, rock salt, nut shell or wood chips. In another aspect, an electrical power supply is electrically connected to the first and second electrical terminals. In another aspect, the electrical power supply operates in a range from 50 to 500 volts DC, or 200 to 400 volts DC. In another aspect, the first electrically conductive screen or the second electrically conductive screen reaches a temperature of at least 500° C., 1000° C., or 2000° C. during the electric glow discharge. In another aspect, once the electric glow discharge is created, the electric glow discharge is maintained without the electrically conductive fluid. In another aspect, the electrically conductive fluid comprises water, produced water, wastewater or tailings pond water. In another aspect, the electrically conductive fluid comprises a fluid containing an electrolyte. In another aspect, the electrolyte comprises baking soda, Nahcolite, lime, sodium chloride, ammonium sulfate, sodium sulfate or carbonic acid. In another aspect, the apparatus is configured for installation within a fluid transfer device comprising a tank, vessel, stripper column, reactor, pipe or conduit. In another aspect, the apparatus further comprises a fluid transfer device having a first flange and a second flange, wherein the fluid transfer device comprising a tank, vessel, stripper column, reactor, pipe or conduit; and the housing is attached between the first flange and the second flange. In another aspect, the apparatus comprises one or more sensors disposed within the housing. In another aspect, the first and second conductive filter screens or the non-conductive granular material are removably disposed within the housing.
Macondo Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill
On Apr. 20, 2010 the Deepwater Horizon Semi-Submersible Drilling Rig experienced the largest blowout and consequently the largest marine oil spill within the history of the petroleum industry. Turning now to
The inventor of the present invention has tested various emulsions with an Electric Glow Discharge cell. All emulsions were broken with the EGD Cell. Consequently, one of the methods for treating oil spills is to add a dispersant. However, this creates a problem in that it forms an emulsion. Thus, by locating the present invention on the Sea Floor, a supply vessel, and/or drilling rig, this gives the Oil & Gas Operator an assurance means for being able to treat oil spills.
Accordingly, the system for creating an electric glow discharge comprises: a fluid transfer device having one or more sets of first flanges and second flanges, wherein the fluid transfer device comprising a tank, vessel, stripper column, reactor, pipe or conduit; an electric glow discharge device attached between each set first flanges and second flanges, where each electric glow discharge device comprises: a non-conductive housing having a longitudinal axis, a first opening aligned with the longitudinal axis, and a second opening aligned with the longitudinal axis and opposite the first opening, a first electrically conductive screen disposed proximate to the first opening of the housing and substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, a second electrically conductive screen disposed proximate to the second opening of the housing and substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, wherein the second electrically conductive screen separated from the first electrically conductive screen by a substantially equidistant gap, a non-conductive granular material disposed within the substantially equidistant gap, a first electrical terminal electrically connected to the first electrically conductive screen and disposed on an exterior of the housing, and a second electrical terminal electrically connected to the second electrically conductive screen and disposed on an exterior of the housing; an electrical power source electrically connected to the first and second electrical terminals; and wherein the electric glow discharge is created whenever the first electrical terminal is connected to an electrical power supply such that the first electrically conductive screen has a first polarity, the second electrical terminal is connected to the electrical power supply such that the second electrically conductive screen has a second polarity, and an electrically conductive fluid is introduced into the substantially equidistant gap.
In one aspect, the non-conductive granular material (a) does not pass through either electrically conductive screen, (b) allows the electrically conductive fluid to flow between the first electrically conductive screen and the second electrically conductive screen, and (c) prevents electrical arcing between the electrically conductive screens during the electric glow discharge. In another aspect, the non-conductive granular material comprises marbles, ceramic beads, molecular sieve media, sand, limestone, activated carbon, zeolite, zirconium, alumina, rock salt, nut shell or wood chips. In another aspect, the electrical power supply operates in a range from 50 to 500 volts DC, or 200 to 400 volts DC. In another aspect, the first electrically conductive screen or the second electrically conductive screen reaches a temperature of at least 500° C., 1000° C., or 2000° C. during the electric glow discharge. In another aspect, once the electric glow discharge is created, the electric glow discharge is maintained without the electrically conductive fluid. In another aspect, the electrically conductive fluid comprises water, produced water, wastewater or tailings pond water. In another aspect, the electrically conductive fluid comprises a fluid containing an electrolyte. In another aspect, the electrolyte comprises baking soda, Nahcolite, lime, sodium chloride, ammonium sulfate, sodium sulfate or carbonic acid. In another aspect, the system further comprises one or more sensors disposed within the housing. In another aspect, the first and second conductive filter screens or the non-conductive granular material are removably disposed within the housing.
Moreover, the present invention provides a method for creating an electric glow discharge by providing a glow discharge apparatus comprising: a non-conductive housing having a longitudinal axis, a first opening aligned with the longitudinal axis, and a second opening aligned with the longitudinal axis and opposite the first opening, a first electrically conductive screen disposed proximate to the first opening of the housing and substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, a second electrically conductive screen disposed proximate to the second opening of the housing and substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, wherein the second electrically conductive screen separated from the first electrically conductive screen by a substantially equidistant gap, a non-conductive granular material disposed within the substantially equidistant gap, a first electrical terminal electrically connected to the first electrically conductive screen and disposed on an exterior of the housing, and a second electrical terminal electrically connected to the second electrically conductive screen and disposed on an exterior of the housing; connecting the first and second electrical terminals to an electrical power supply such that the first electrically conductive screen has a first polarity, and the second electrically conductive screen has a second polarity; and creating the electric glow discharge by introducing an electrically conductive fluid into the substantially equidistant gap. The aspects described above with respect to the apparatus and system are also applicable to the method.
Reverse Polarity EGD Screen Assembly
Insertable Plasma Electrolysis Assembly
Turning now to
In one aspect, the apparatus is configured to be inserted into a vessel, pipe, conduit, column, tank, well or any structure that holds a fluid to form a closed system as illustrated in
Now also turning to
Turning now to
In addition, a power supply 1512 is electrically coupled to the first cylindrical conductive screen 1308 and the second cylindrical conductive screen 1312. The power supply 1512 includes various sensors, such as current A and voltage V. A tank control valve 1514 is coupled to the first vessel inlet or outlet 1506. One or more sensors 1516 monitor one or more parameters within the vessel 1502, such as total dissolved solids (TDS), pH, total suspended solids (TSS), oxidation reduction potential (ORP), temperature, or other desirable parameters. In some embodiments, an eductor 1518 has an outlet is coupled to the second vessel inlet or outlet 1508. A pump 1520 is coupled to the first inlet of the eductor 1518, and a control valve 1522 is coupled to the second inlet of the eductor 1518. The pump 1520 is preferably controlled with a variable frequency drive. When the eductor 1518 is not used, the pump 1520 is coupled to the second vessel inlet/outlet 1508.
During operation, an electrically conductive fluid is disposed within the vessel. The electrically conductive fluid can be water, produced water, wastewater or tailings pond water. The electrically conductive fluid can also be a fluid containing an electrolyte, such as baking soda, Nahcolite, lime, sodium chloride, ammonium sulfate, sodium sulfate or carbonic acid. The negative (−) lead of the DC power source 1512 is attached to the first cylindrical conductive screen 1308, and the positive (+) lead is attached to the second cylindrical conductive screen 1312. The plasma electrolysis apparatus or system 1500 may be operated in several modes: Plasma Electrolysis, Faraday Electrolysis, Plasma Electrolysis Steam, and Plasma Electrolysis CO2 Reduction.
Plasma Electrolysis Mode of Operation
Turn ON power supply 1512.
Turn ON P/VFD pump 1520.
Liquid (L) flows into the vessel 1502.
Amp sensor monitors for electrical current flow.
When the liquid reaches the first cylindrical conductive screen, the Volt sensor should show open circuit voltage (OCV=Max Voltage of Power Source) and a plasma will be formed on first cylindrical conductive screen (cathode).
Control valve 1514 is set to maintain OCV via monitoring amps and voltage.
Amps are set to desired limit to increase or decrease gas production in Plasma Electrolysis Mode.
Both the P/VFD pump 1520 and the control valve are automatically controlled with amp and volt sensors to maintain plasma electrolysis on the cathode or first cylindrical conductive screen 1308 while maximizing H2 production.
Faraday Electrolysis Mode of Operation
Turn ON power supply 1512.
Turn ON P/VFD pump 1520.
Liquid (L) flows into the vessel 1502.
Amp sensor monitors for electrical current flow.
When the liquid reaches the first cylindrical conductive screen, the Volt sensor should show open circuit voltage (OCV=Max Voltage of Power Source).
Tank continues filling with liquid until the voltage drops and the amps rise. This is readily viewable with analog gauges. This is the tell-tale sign that plasma electrolysis apparatus or system 1500 is operating in Faraday Electrolysis Mode and not Plasma Electrolysis Mode. Hence, a viewable sight glass is not necessary thus eliminating a major “glass cracking” problem in cell design.
Control valve is set to maintain maximum amps of power source.
Amps set to desired limit to increase or decrease gas production in Faraday Electrolysis Mode.
Both P/VFD pump 1520 and control valve are automatically controlled via the sensors to maintain Faraday electrolysis mode on the cathode or first cylindrical conductive screen 1308 while maximizing gas production.
Plasma Electrolysis Steam Mode of Operation
Turn ON power supply 1512.
Turn ON P/VFD pump 1520.
Liquid (L) flows into the vessel 1502.
Amp sensor monitors for electrical current flow.
When the liquid reaches the first cylindrical conductive screen, the Volt sensor should show open circuit voltage (OCV=Max Voltage of Power Source) and a plasma will be formed on first cylindrical conductive screen (cathode).
Control valve 1514 is set to maintain OCV via monitoring amps and voltage.
Amps set to desired limit to increase or decrease gas production in Plasma Electrolysis Mode.
Both P/VFD pump 1520 and control valve are automatically controlled with amp and volt sensors to maintain plasma electrolysis on the cathode or first cylindrical conductive screen 1308 while maximizing H2 production.
Eductor control valve 1522 is throttled to pull a suction on O2 outlet via the eductor 1518.
The oxygen will flow upwards once it reaches the cell and mix with H2 to form steam.
Steam and some H2 will exit the H2 outlet.
Now turning to
Plasma Electrolysis CO2 Reduction Mode of Operation
Turn ON power supply
Turn ON P/VFD pump
Liquid (L) flows into the Filter Vessel
Amp sensor monitors for electrical current flow
Upon Liquid reaching 2nd electrically conductive screen Volt sensor should show Open Circuit Voltage (OCV=Max Voltage of Power Source) and a plasma will be formed on 2nd conductive screen (cathode).
Control valve 1514 is set to maintain OCV via monitoring amps and voltage.
Amps set to desired limit to increase or decrease gas production in Plasma Electrolysis Mode.
Both P/VFD pump 1520 and control valve 1514 are automatically controlled with amp and volt sensors to maintain plasma electrolysis on the cathode or the first cylindrical conductive screen while maximizing H2 production.
Eductor control valve 1522 is throttled to pull a suction on O2 outlet via eductor 1518.
CO2 is injected into the electrically conductive tube 1552 with a porous tip 1554.
CO is produced.
Turning now to
Now referring to
In one aspect, the electrically conductive fluid comprises water, produced water, wastewater or tailings pond water. In another aspect, the electrically conductive fluid comprises a fluid containing an electrolyte. In another aspect, the electrolyte comprises baking soda, Nahcolite, lime, sodium chloride, ammonium sulfate, sodium sulfate or carbonic acid. In another aspect, hydrogen exits the first outlet and an oxidant outlet exits the second outlet. In another aspect, the first electrically conductive screen or the second electrically conductive screen reaches a temperature of at least 500° C., 1000° C., or 2000° C. during the electrolysis. In another aspect, once the electrolysis is created, the electrolysis is maintained without the electrically conductive fluid. In another aspect, the vessel comprises a pipe, conduit, column, tank, well or any structure that holds a fluid to form a closed system. In another aspect, the electrical power supply operates in a range from 50 to 500 volts DC, or 200 to 400 volts DC. In another aspect, the first cylindrical conductive screen comprises a cathode and the second cylindrical conductive screen comprises and anode. In another aspect, one or more sensors monitor one or more parameters within the vessel. In another aspect, the apparatus includes an eductor having a first inlet, a second inlet and an outlet, wherein the outlet is coupled to the second vessel inlet or outlet; a pump coupled to the first inlet of the eductor; and a control valve coupled to the second inlet of the eductor. In another aspect, an electrically conductive tube having a porous tip is disposed within the first outlet and extends into the vessel beyond the length of the first cylindrical conductive screen. In another aspect, the method includes producing carbon monoxide from the first output by introducing carbon dioxide into the electrically conductive tube.
Transmitted Power Density (“TPD”)
The TPD of direct resistance heating processes typically range from 10 to 10,000 W/cm2. In contrast the TPD of plasma heating processes typically range from 100 to 100,000 W/cm2, which is on the order of ten times greater than that of direct resistance heating. As used herein, Faraday Electrolysis or direct resistance heating is referred to as High Dense Transmitted (“HDT”) Power (“HTP”) and plasma heating as Ultra Dense Transmitted (“UDT”) Power. Any UDT Power™ system, method or apparatus compared to a HDT Power system, method or apparatus would be considered a process intensification system, since it can be made smaller for a given transmitted power density. However, what is unobvious, novel and unique is constructing and operating an electrolytic cell in either Faraday Electrolysis or Plasma Electrolysis for making hydrogen and oxidants. Likewise, the system, method and apparatus is preferably controlled using sensors to transition from Faraday Electrolysis to Plasma Electrolysis reliably and without operator input.
Tests demonstrate that the TPD of a plasma system in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention (e.g., HiTemper™ or VIPER™) is at least 34 times better than the TPD of a Faraday Electrolysis system as illustrated in the table below.
High Pressure Cleanable PE Filter
High pressure cleanable filters are available but are not commonly used within filter presses. Likewise, the world is in dire need for a system, method and apparatus that can convert many different types of liquids to hydrogen. Typically this is referred to as water splitting. The major problem with commonly available Faraday Electrolyzers is using pure water. However, the inventor of the present invention has processed manure, biosolids, tailings pond water, produced water, river water, wastewater effluent and many other types of liquid streams thru the Virtual Inertia Plasma ElectrolyzeR™ (VIPER™) aka HiTemper™ shown in U.S. Pat. Nos. 10,117,318 and 10,395,892, which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.
Turning now to
The small diameter screen is held in place with means known in the art such as a 1st nut and 2nd nut with acme threads, compression fittings or air operated pinch valves as shown in
However, for ideal flow-thru filtration for material such as cattle manure the Plasma Electrolyzer 1800 would be installed with an auger attached to a high-pressure progressive cavity-pump or simply a screw press. Turning now to
An eductor is attached to the bottom outlet of the Plasma Electrolyzer filter screen. It is used to ensure all fluids (liquids and gases) are pulled through the filter screens. There are numerous modes of operation for the Plasma Electrolyzer Filter Screen.
Plasma Electrolysis Mode of Operation
Large Screen Lug 1 hooked up to positive side of DC Power source.
Small Screen Lug 2 hooked up to negative side of DC Power source.
Turn ON Power Supply.
Flow Wet Material into inlet of Auger PGP.
Liquids begin to go thru small screen and upon contact with large screen a glow discharge is formed on small screen.
All liquids going through the screen are treated.
EOPT is not energized.
EOPT is used only to create a plug near the end of the small screen to ensure wet material is squeezed under hydraulic pressure.
Steam Plasma Torch Syngas Mode of Operation
Plasma Torch is attached to actuator.
Large Screen Lug 1 and Small Screen Lug 2 are hooked up to positive side of DC Power source.
Plasma Torch Electrode hooked up to negative side of DC Power source.
Turn ON Power Supply and energize plasma torch using Steam as gas for Torch.
Flow Wet Material into inlet of Auger PGP.
Liquids begin to go thru small screen and large screen.
All carbonaceous solids are converted into Syngas.
Eductor pulls a vacuum on Plasma Electrolyzer Filter screen to ensure gases and liquids are pulled into the motive fluid stream.
Electrode Negative Graphite Production Mode of Operation
An electrode is attached to the actuator.
Large Screen Lug 1 and Small Screen Lug 2 are hooked up to positive side of DC Power source.
Electrode is hooked up to negative side of DC Power source.
Turn ON Power Supply and energize electrode and push electrode to touch screen or nozzle (not shown) attached to the small screen.
Flow Wet Material into inlet of Auger PGP.
Liquids begin to go thru small screen and large screen.
All carbonaceous solids are converted into Graphite.
Eductor pulls a vacuum on Plasma Electrolyzer Filter screen to ensure gases and liquids are pulled into the motive fluid stream.
Electrode Positive Graphite Production Mode of Operation
An electrode is attached to the actuator.
Large Screen Lug 1 is hooked up to positive side of DC Power source.
Small Screen Lug 2 is hooked up to negative side of DC Power source.
Electrode is hooked up to positive side of DC Power source.
Turn ON Power Supply and energize electrode and push electrode to touch screen or nozzle (not shown) attached to the small screen.
Flow Wet Material into inlet of Auger PGP.
Liquids begin to go thru small screen and large screen.
All carbonaceous solids are converted into Graphite.
Eductor pulls a vacuum on Plasma Electrolyzer Filter screen to ensure gases and liquids are pulled into the motive fluid stream.
As a result,
As a result,
Turning now to
As a result,
Virtual Inertia Plasma ElectrolyzeR™ (VIPER™)
Turning now to
DC Grid Control Plasma Electrolysis Mode for Maximizing H2 Production
The Cathode Column electrical CIRCUIT BREAKERS are aligned as follows:
The Anode Column electrical CIRCUIT BREAKERS are aligned as follows:
PUMP 2302 is turned on and a fluid flows into both columns.
Volts and Amps are monitored and when voltage rises to Open Circuit Voltage (OCV) of the power source and amps drop the system is operating in Glow Discharge aka Plasma Electrolysis Mode to maximize H2 production.
PUMP 2302 is either turned off or controlled with a Variable Frequency Drive thus maintaining fluid flow into the Columns to ensure it is operated in Plasma Electrolysis Mode.
DC Grid Control Faraday Electrolysis Mode for Maximizing Current Draw
The Cathode Column electrical CIRCUIT BREAKERS are aligned as follows:
The Anode Column electrical CIRCUIT BREAKERS are aligned as follows:
PUMP 2302 is turned on and a fluid flows into both columns.
Volts and Amps are monitored and when voltage rises to Open Circuit Voltage (OCV) of the power source and amps drop the system is operating in Glow Discharge aka Plasma Electrolysis Mode to maximize H2 production, however PUMP 2302 continues operating until volts drop dramatically and AMPS increase and the system is operating in Faraday Electrolysis Mode.
The system is controlled with a variable frequency drive thus maintaining fluid flow into the columns to ensure it is operated in Faraday Electrolysis Mode.
Although the system of
As a result,
Offshore Wind Energy with Viper™ Riser for Green H2
Turning now to
As a result,
Now referring to
In previous testing, a boiling media such as proppants used to fracture a well, gravel or any non-conductive material, which will increase surface area, was added to the present inventor's patented glow discharge plasma electrolysis cell. The cell was operated with and without media. Testing proved that the media increased efficiency by 13%. Hence, whether operated in Plasma Electrolysis mode or Faraday Electrolysis mode, the media increase efficiency which increases hydrogen production per unit of power used within the electrolysis reactor.
Current oil and gas barges, deep water drilling ships and semisubmersible vessel equipment can be used for carrying out the present invention. For example, if a subsea reverse osmosis SSRO system is used, then the deepwater drilling ship would lower the SSRO and the risers. The risers then could be connected to a separate vessel 2402, which incorporates the renewable power source. The risers 202a and 202c would be interconnected via piping from the SSRO in order to flow pressurized deionized water to each riser. The following operating steps will demonstrate the industrial application as well as its novelty, uniqueness and obviousness.
Plasma Electrolysis Startup Mode
Riser Valves and Production String Valves integrated into the Oxidant Tree OT and Hydrogen Tree HT are opened.
DI water is flowed from the SSRO and into the risers 202a and 202c, until DI water flows out of Riser Tree OT and HT Riser Valves and Production String Valves.
SSRO DI water is diverted away from Risers 202a and 202c.
Riser Valves are shut.
High pressure Nitrogen is pumped into both production strings 201a and 201c to form a bubble on top of the water within the production strings 201a and 202c.
DC power is energized to both electrodes 200a and 200c.
As pressure increases in both the risers and production strings, Production String Valves are throttled to flow the nitrogen and then the oxidant and hydrogen into the OT and HT production strings 201a and 201c.
Plasma Electrolysis Operating Mode
DI flow is resumed to Risers 202a and 202c.
Oxidant Pressure and Hydrogen Pressure are monitored and maintained by throttling production string valves and diverting DI from the SSRO system.
Hydrostatic pressure provides the means for pressurizing the hydrogen. Thus, a separate hydrogen compressor is not needed for carrying out the present invention. Likewise, the hydrogen can be injected into natural gas (NG) pipelines for distribution of hydrogen enriched natural gas (HENG). NG pipelines are commonplace throughout the Gulf Of Mexico (GOM) and the North Sea, which are also high wind rated areas.
As a result,
Referring to
The configuration of
To transition from electrolysis to plasma electrolysis only one screen on the 1st electrically conductive wafer screen assembly which is the cathode would be energized with a circuit breaker (not shown). The other screen on the 1st electrically conductive wafer screen assembly would be electrically isolated via a circuit breaker or any means known in the art such as simply disconnecting a power lead.
As a result,
A Virtual Inertia Plasma ElectrolyzeR™ apparatus for producing hydrogen comprises a cathode wafer electrolysis column and an anode wafer electrolysis column in which each column comprises a non-conductive housing configured for installation within a fluid transfer device, wherein each column has a non-conductive housing, a longitudinal axis aligned with the fluid transfer device, a first opening aligned with the longitudinal axis, and a second opening aligned with the longitudinal axis and opposite the first opening. The cathode wafer electrolysis column comprises at least one cathode wafer screen assembly comprising an electrically conductive screen attached to the non-conductive housing and disposed proximate to the first opening of the housing and substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and a second electrically conductive screen attached to the non-conductive housing and disposed proximate to the second opening of the housing and substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, wherein the second electrically conductive screen is separated from the first electrically conductive screen by a substantially equidistant gap and a non-conductive granular material disposed within the substantially equidistant gap and a DC power source is electrically connected to both screens of the cathode wafer screen. The anode wafer electrolysis column comprises at least two anode wafer screen assemblies comprising an electrically conductive screen attached to the non-conductive housing and disposed proximate to the first opening of the housing and substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and a second electrically conductive screen attached to the non-conductive housing and disposed proximate to the second opening of the housing and substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, wherein the second electrically conductive screen is separated from the first electrically conductive screen by a substantially equidistant gap and a non-conductive granular material disposed within the substantially equidistant gap and a DC power source is electrically connected to both screens of the cathode wafer screen. The cathode wafer column and the anode wafer column are connected via a common pipe or conduit wherein the conduit has an inlet/outlet. Plasma Electrolysis (PE) is created when an electrically conductive fluid is introduced into the inlet/outlet and contacts the cathode wafer screens and the anode wafer screens.
A Virtual Inertia Plasma ElectrolyzeR™ apparatus for producing hydrogen comprises a cathode wafer electrolysis column and an anode wafer electrolysis column in which each column comprises a non-conductive housing configured for installation within a fluid transfer device, wherein each column has a non-conductive housing, a longitudinal axis aligned with the fluid transfer device, a first opening aligned with the longitudinal axis, and a second opening aligned with the longitudinal axis and opposite the first opening. The cathode wafer electrolysis column comprises at least one cathode wafer screen assembly comprising an electrically conductive screen attached to the non-conductive housing and disposed proximate to the first opening of the housing and substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and a second electrically conductive screen attached to the non-conductive housing and disposed proximate to the second opening of the housing and substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, wherein the second electrically conductive screen is separated from the first electrically conductive screen by a substantially equidistant gap and a non-conductive granular material disposed within the substantially equidistant gap and a DC power source is electrically connected to both screens of the cathode wafer screen. The anode wafer electrolysis column comprises at least one anode wafer screen assemblies comprising an electrically conductive screen attached to the non-conductive housing and disposed proximate to the first opening of the housing and substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and a second electrically conductive screen attached to the non-conductive housing and disposed proximate to the second opening of the housing and substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, wherein the second electrically conductive screen is separated from the first electrically conductive screen by a substantially equidistant gap and a non-conductive granular material disposed within the substantially equidistant gap and a DC power source is electrically connected to both screens of the cathode wafer screen. The cathode wafer column and the anode wafer column are connected via a common pipe or conduit wherein the conduit has an inlet/outlet. Plasma Electrolysis (PE) is created when an electrically conductive fluid is introduced into either the top of the cathode wafer screens or the anode wafer screens or introduced into both the cathode wafer screens and the anode wafer screens. The apparatus may also include a sensor, control valve, two or more anode wafer screen assemblies, or diffuser. The cathode column can be higher in elevation than the anode column.
Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Capture and Reduction to Carbon Monoxide (CO) for Zero Carbon Emissions
In previous testing baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) was used as an electrolyte by addition to drinking water. The sodium bicarbonate was converted to sodium carbonate (NaOH) commonly referred to as caustic soda.
This gives rise to a system for capturing carbon as carbon dioxide and then reducing it to carbon monoxide for use as a chemical feedstock. Referring to
For a zero emission closed CO2 cycle, the CO2 would be captured with the caustic soda produced from any of the systems, methods and apparatuses of the present invention. Consequently, this gives rise to a system, method and apparatus for capturing carbon from point source emissions or direct air capture, then converting the CO2 to CO while also regenerating the spent caustic and returning it to the point source emission or direct air capture system.
Destruction of Nitrogen Trichloride (NCl3) in Chlor-Alkali Plants
A full description for the properties of NCl3 and its destruction with UV light can be found in the present inventor's U.S. Pat. No. 5,832,361, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Returning back to
A Virtual Inertia Plasma ElectrolyzeR™ apparatus for producing hydrogen comprising: an electrically non-conductive spool piece with an inlet with a first electrically conductive screen and a weir flange installed on one end of the spool piece a second electrically conductive screen assembly installed on the opposite end of the spool piece and the spool piece is filled with media to prevent arcing wherein a DC power source leads are connected to the first electrically conductive screen and the second conductive screens such that the screens are of opposite polarity and a plasma electrolysis is formed when fluid is introduced into the inlet and flows through the media and up and over the weir of the first electrically conductive screen to reduce the surface area contacted by the fluid and the fluid contacts the second the electrically conductive screen.
In one aspect, the discharge from the first electrically conductive screen is flowed into a first hydrocyclone and flowing the discharge from the second electrically conductive screen into a second hydrocyclone. In another aspect, the first hydrocyclone catholyte liquid and the second hydrocyclone anolyte liquid are flowed into a tank. In another aspect, a pump flows fluid into the virtual inertia plasma electrolyzer. In another aspect, a sensor monitors and controls parameters, such as Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Total Suspended Solids (TDS), Oxidation Reduction Potential (ORP), Dissolved Oxygen (DO), pH, temperature and pressure. In another aspect, the apparatus includes a makeup fluid inlet, a blowdown fluid outlet, or a membrane for separating the catholyte from the anolyte.
Parameters for Plasma Electrolysis (PE) Vs Faraday Electrolysis (FE)
There are two critical parameters for transitioning from Faraday Electrolysis to Plasma Electrolysis. The first parameter is DC volts. The DC power source must provide enough voltage to transition from Faraday Electrolysis (FE) to Plasma Electrolysis (PE). However, not being bound by theory it is believed that the combination of less surface area for the desired PE electrode with sufficient voltage allows for maintaining PE Mode. This has been clearly demonstrated by the present inventor.
A virtual inertia plasma electrolysis method comprises a first electrode wafer electrolysis screen assembly with a first surface area that its surface area is smaller than a second electrolysis screen assembly with a second surface area and installing each electrolysis screen assemblies into separate electrically non-conductive columns connected via a fluid transfer conduit and each electrolysis screen assembly is electrically connected to opposite polarities of a DC power source and a plasma electrolysis is formed when fluid is flowed into the fluid transfer conduit and the fluid contacts the first electrode wafer screen assembly and the second electrode screen assembly.
Plasma Electrolysis Mode of Operation
Large Screen Lug 1 (LSL1) is hooked up to positive side of DC Power source.
Small Screen Lug 2 (SSL2) is hooked up to negative side of DC Power source.
Turn ON Power Supply.
Shut valve attached to 1st hydrocyclone.
Flow Liquid (L) thru Anode Screen Assembly and into vessel.
Liquid will then flow into the well and into the tube.
Upon liquid touching the Cathode Screen Assembly the system will be energized.
Open valve attached to 1st hydrocyclone.
Cathode Screen Assembly will be in Plasma Electrolysis Mode.
O2 and Anolyte Liquid will flow out of the vessel and into a 1st Hydrocyclone.
O2 and Anolyte Liquid will be separated in the 1st Hydrocyclone.
H2 and Catholyte Liquid will flow into a riser attached to a 2nd Hydrocyclone.
H2 and Catholyte Liquid will be separated in the 2nd Hydrocyclone.
Plasma Electrolysis Torch
While referring back to
Vertical Steam Plasma Electrolysis Mode of Operation
Large Screen Lug 1 (LSL1) is hooked up to positive side of DC Power source.
Small Screen Lug 2 (SSL2) is hooked up to negative side of DC Power source.
Turn ON Power Supply.
Flow Liquid (L) thru Anode Screen Assembly and into vessel.
Liquid will then rise and upon touching the Cathode Screen Assembly the system will be energized.
Cathode Screen Assembly will be in Plasma Electrolysis Mode.
O2 will be generated on the Anode Screen Assembly.
O2 will and come in contact with the plasma and H2 generated on the cathode screen assembly.
The Plasma will ignite the H2+O2 forming a steam plasma.
Horizontal Plasma Electrolysis Mode of Operation
Large Screen Lug 1 (LSL1) is hooked up to positive side of DC Power source.
Small Screen Lug 2 (SSL2) is hooked up to negative side of DC Power source.
Turn ON Power Supply.
Flow Liquid (L) thru Anode Screen Assembly and into vessel.
Liquid will progress thru media and upon touching the Cathode Screen Assembly the system will be energized.
Cathode Screen Assembly will be in Plasma Electrolysis Mode.
O2 will be generated on the Anode Screen Assembly.
O2 will be swept along with liquid and come in contact with the plasma and H2 generated on the cathode screen assembly.
The Plasma will ignite the H2+O2 forming a steam plasma.
Horizontal Plasma Electrolysis Mode of Operation
Large Screen Lug 1 (LSL1) is hooked up to positive side of DC Power source.
Small Screen Lug 2 (SSL2) is hooked up to negative side of DC Power source.
Turn ON Power Supply.
Flow Liquid (L) thru Anode Screen Assembly and into vessel.
Liquid will progress thru media and upon touching the Cathode Screen Assembly the system will be energized.
Cathode Screen Assembly will be in Plasma Electrolysis Mode.
O2 will be generated on the Anode Screen Assembly.
O2 will collect on the top and flow into a riser.
The O2 can be throttled with a valve.
Some O2 will be swept along with liquid and come in contact with the plasma and H2 generated on the cathode screen assembly.
The Plasma will ignite the H2+O2 forming a steam plasma or a steam and H2 plasma, based upon how much O2 is vented via the valve.
Plasma Electrolysis Mode of Operation
Large Anode Screen Assembly 900a is hooked up to positive side of DC Power source.
Small Cathode Screen Assembly 900b is hooked up to negative side of DC Power source.
Turn ON Power Supply.
Flow Liquid (L) into tank via an inlet.
As tank fills liquid will contact the Anode Screen 900a.
As tank continue to fill liquid will contact Cathode Screen 900b.
System will now be in Plasma Electrolysis (PE) Mode.
Oxidants and Anolyte will flow out of the Large Anode Screen Assembly 900a.
H2 and Catholyte will flow out of the Small Cathode Screen Assembly 900b.
In one aspect, an eductor is attached to the tank. In another aspect, the apparatus includes a suction line for recirculating anolyte, catholyte, injecting fluids into the tank or any combination thereof. In another aspect, an inlet/outlet line is attached to the tank. In another aspect, a control valve is attached to the inlet/outlet. In another aspect, the apparatus includes a sensor for monitoring parameters such as TDS, TSS, pH, ORP, DO, Temperature and Pressure.
Plasma Electrolysis Mode of Operation
Hook up Large Anode Screen Assembly 900a housed within the Large Hydrocyclone 1500a to the positive side of a DC Power source.
Hook up Small Cathode Screen Assembly 900b housed within the Small Hydrocyclone 1500b to the negative side of a DC Power source.
DC Power Supply Energizied.
Pump 1001 turned ON.
Liquid flows into both hydrocyclones via line 1004.
As the liquid contacts both screens current will flow and a plasma will from on the small cathode screen assembly 900b.
Hydrogen will exit from the vortex collector of the small hydrocyclone 1500b.
Catholyte will exit from the bottom of the small hydrocyclone 1500b.
Oxidants will exit from the large vortex collector of the large hydrocyclone 1500a.
Anolyte will exit from the bottom of the large hydrocyclone 1500a.
Anolyte and catholyte will be mixed within the tank.
H2 and Catholyte will flow out of the Small Cathode Screen Assembly 900b.
System is monitored with a Sensor S.
S controls both makeup water and blowdown.
DC Source monitors and controls amps and volts to maintain plasma electrolysis mode.
In one aspect, the apparatus includes a pump for flowing fluid into the hydrocyclones. In another aspect, the apparatus includes an inlet/outlet line with a control valve attached to the inlet/outlet line. In another aspect, a makeup inlet line flows additional fluid into the tank. In another aspect, a sensor monitors parameters such, as TDS, TSS, pH, ORP, DO, Temperature and Pressure. In another aspect, the apparatus includes a membrane for separating the anolyte from the catholyte.
In one aspect, the apparatus includes a pump for flowing fluid into the hydrocyclones. In another aspect, the apparatus includes an inlet/outlet line with a control valve attached to the inlet/outlet line. In another aspect, a makeup inlet line flows additional fluid into the tank. In another aspect, a sensor monitors parameters such, as TDS, TSS, pH, ORP, DO, Temperature and Pressure. In another aspect, the apparatus includes a membrane for separating the anolyte from the catholyte.
Although preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.
This patent application is a continuation-in-part patent application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/254,573 filed on Jan. 22, 2019 and entitled “System, Method and Apparatus for Creating an Electrical Glow Discharge”, now U.S. Pat. No. 11,806,686, which is a continuation-in-part patent application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/480,468 filed on Apr. 6, 2017 and entitled “System, Method and Apparatus for Creating an Electrical Glow Discharge”, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,184,322, which is a continuation patent application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/704,538 filed on May 5, 2015 and entitled “System, Method and Apparatus for Creating an Electrical Glow Discharge, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,644,465, which is a continuation patent application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/288,170 filed on Oct. 16, 2008 and entitled “System, Method and Apparatus for Creating an Electrical Glow Discharge”, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,051,820, which is non-provisional patent application of: (1) U.S. provisional patent application 60/980,443 filed on Oct. 16, 2007 and entitled “System, Method and Apparatus for Carbonizing Oil Shale with Electrolysis Plasma Well Screen”; and (2) U.S. provisional patent application 61/028,386 filed on Feb. 13, 2008 and entitled “High Temperature Plasma Electrolysis Reactor Configured as an Evaporator, Filter, Heater or Torch.” This patent application is related to PCT patent application PCT/US23/78254 filed on Oct. 30, 2023 and entitled “Wave Energy Systems.” All of the foregoing applications are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 61028386 | Feb 2008 | US | |
| 60980443 | Oct 2007 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 14704538 | May 2015 | US |
| Child | 15480468 | US | |
| Parent | 12288170 | Oct 2008 | US |
| Child | 14704538 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 16254573 | Jan 2019 | US |
| Child | 18504069 | US | |
| Parent | 15480468 | Apr 2017 | US |
| Child | 16254573 | US |
