JP-8 Gasifier and Pre-Reformer

Precision Combustion, Inc. (PCI) proposes to develop a compact multi-fuel catalytic reactor based on the proprietary Microlithr technology for gasification and pre-reforming of up to 6 lb/hr (i.e. ~ 40 kWt) of liquid hydrocarbon logistic fuels, such as JP-8, diesel or Jet-A, without the need for external pre-heat or pre-vaporization. The size of the catalytic reactor is expected to be less than 30 in3 (0.5 liter) and weigh < 1 kg. The hydrogen rich gasified fuel mixture exiting the reactor can then be utilized in a downstream fuel cell or combustion device for clean and efficient energy generation. The pre-reformer will be capable of operating in either catalytic partial oxidation (CPOX) or autothermal reforming (ATR) mode. For the CPOX mode only fuel and air are supplied to the reactor, yet partial fuel conversion can be achieved. For the ATR mode small amounts of water will be recycled to the reformer, allowing achieving complete conversion of the fuel and higher efficiency of the reforming process. Therefore, the performance of the pre-reformer can be adjusted depending on the particular application. In this program the pre-reformer performance will be demonstrated and the requirements for the integrated system will be analyzed.