Device and Method for Catalytic Release of a Gas from a Carrier Material

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This invention describes a device and method for efficiently releasing a gas, such as hydrogen, from a liquid or solid carrier material using a specialized catalytic reactor. The reactor features a unique arrangement where heating elements are positioned transversely (perpendicular) to the main fluid flow, optimizing heat transfer to the catalyst and the carrier material. The system is especially suited for the release of hydrogen from liquid organic hydrogen carriers (LOHCs) in a controlled and energy-efficient way.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Hydrogen generation stations for fuel cell vehicles using LOHC storage technology.
• Industrial hydrogen supply systems where on-demand release of hydrogen from chemical carriers is required.
• Portable or distributed hydrogen production units for off-grid or backup power applications.
• Hydrogen-based energy systems where safe storage and controlled release of hydrogen is necessary, e.g., in renewable energy storage.
• Decentralized production of gases (e.g., hydrogen) for laboratory or small-scale chemical processes.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Significantly improved heat transfer efficiency compared to conventional reactor designs, leading to faster and more efficient gas release.
• Enhanced control over reaction conditions, with the ability to optimize gas release rates or maximize total extraction as needed.
• Flexible heating options including electric, combustion, or thermal fluids allowing integration with various energy sources.
• Catalyst longevity and reactivation features (e.g., mechanical agitation) to extend operational lifespan and maintain high activity.
• Adaptable to both batch and continuous operation modes, supporting different industrial and mobile applications.
• Increased safety by containing and controlling hydrogen release from stable carrier materials rather than handling pressurized hydrogen directly.

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a device (1c) for the catalytic release of a gas from a carrier material, said device comprising a reactor housing (3c), in which catalyst material (8) is arranged, wherein the reactor housing (3c) comprises a feed opening (16) for feeding the carrier material into the reactor housing (3c), a discharge opening (17, 18) for discharging the released gas and/or carrier material from the reactor housing (3c), and a fluid flow direction (19) which is oriented from the feed opening (16) to the discharge opening (17, 18). The device (1c) further comprises a heating element (20) which is at least partially arranged in the reactor housing (3c) and has a longitudinal axis (21) that extends transversely to the fluid flow direction (19).