GB284655A - Improved process for hydrogenating hydrocarbons or carbon - Google Patents

Abstract

284,655. Hansen, F. J. M. Feb. 2, 1927, [Convention date]. Void [Published under Sect. 91 of the Acts]. Gases, treating with electric discharge.-The hydrogenation of hydrocarbons or carbon is effected by the action if an electric arc or a series of sparks from a condenser discharge between electrodes which are immersed in a solvent for the products. One of the electrodes is formed of or contains a catalytically active metal such as nickel or contains a metal salt such a nickel carbonate which becomes dispersed in the liquid during the reaction. The electrode is drilled or formed with a quartz sleeve so as to form a passage for hydrogen and in some cases for hydrocarbon vapour. The solvent is circulated in a closed circuit which comprises a cooling device or a still for separation of the products of hydrogenation. Alternatively the products may be removed as vapours from the apparatus. In examples, vapours of naphthalene or a carbonaceous gas such as water gas are introduced together with hydrogen through electrodes one of which is formed of nickel into a vessel containing sufficient tetrahydronaphthalene to submerge the spark or are gap. Coal or coke to be hydrogenated is moulded to form electrodes, a metal salt being added before moulding or a metal wire being embedded in the electrodes, and hydrogen is introduced through or around the electrodes. A suitable solvent consists of a mixture of tetrahydronaphthalene and isobutyl alcohol. The process may be carried out at a pressure of about 10 atmospheres.