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

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

This patent describes a method and apparatus for catalytically releasing a gas, especially hydrogen, from a carrier material such as a liquid organic hydrogen carrier (LOHC). The invention involves using a reactor with catalyst particles that can be periodically or intentionally moved to reactivate (refresh) their catalytic activity. By moving the catalyst particles (for example, using mechanical pulses, vibrations, or pressure waves), gas bubbles trapped in the pores of the particles are released, restoring catalyst function and improving gas release efficiency. The device is equipped with heating elements and can be automated, making it suitable for continuous or batch operation.

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

• Hydrogen release for fuel cells in vehicles such as cars, trucks, trains, and ships using LOHC technology
• Hydrogen fueling stations, where hydrogen is released on-demand from a stable LOHC medium
• Industrial hydrogen supply from LOHC systems, e.g., for chemical production processes
• Portable energy systems requiring safe and efficient hydrogen storage and release
• Stationary power generation with on-site hydrogen production from LOHC for backup or remote locations

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Maintains high catalyst activity over long operational periods by automatic or scheduled reactivation
• Prevents clogging/deactivation due to trapped gas bubbles, enhancing reactor performance and longevity
• Enables efficient and controlled hydrogen release from safe, liquid storage media (LOHC), improving safety and logistics
• Improves volumetric and gravimetric performance of gas release systems, allowing higher energy density and smaller equipment sizes
• Allows for flexible and automated operation, suitable for both continuous and batch processes, and adaptable to various mobile and stationary applications
• Reduces maintenance needs and catalyst replacement frequency, lowering operational costs

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Patent Abstract

A method for catalytically releasing a gas from a carrier material (LOHC) comprises providing a reactor housing (3c) in which catalyst material (8) is arranged in the form of a bed of catalyst particles, releasing the gas from the carrier material by contacting the carrier material with the catalyst material (8), reactivating the catalyst particles by moving the catalyst particles in the reactor housing (3c).