Thermal Cycling Device

new technique for separating gases

Thermal Cycling Device
This device separates gases, especially isotopes, by thermal cycling of a separation column using a pressure vessel mounted vertically and having baffled sources for cooling and heating.
The device induces natural convection for both cooling and heating a column. Thermal cycling is achieved with minimal
supporting equipment resulting in a low energy and low cost separation process.

Market Assessment
As the demand for hydrogen grows as an alternative fuel, more efficient methods for separating it from other gases will be required. A recent market study conducted by Ballard Power Systems, Inc., projects the global hydrogen market at $10 billion in 2010 and $150 billion in 2020.

Patent Status
U.S. Patent No. 6,432,174 has been issued on this invention.

Stage of Development
A prototype has been built and will be tested in the near future.

Contact
Eric Frickey, Licensing Associate
(803) 725-0406
eric.frickey@srnl.doe.gov