GB294494A - Improvements in the treatment of hydrocarbons with electric arcs - Google Patents

Abstract

294,494. Johnson, J. Y., (I. G. Farbenindustrie Akt.-Ges.). Jan. 24, 19'27. Gases, treating with electric discharge.-In the treatment of gases containing hydrocarbons in a furnace having a central electrode E and an annular or tubular electrode through which the gases pass, an insulating mantle H is arranged between the electrodes to prevent the arc taking the shortest path and to bring it to the length most favourable for the reaction. The annular electrode may be, constituted by the furnace mantle. A which is connected to earth, or by an electrode G separate from the furnace, Fig. 1. The insulating mantle may be adjusted by a lever J. The central electrode is covered with insulation F, but the length of the insulation mav be shortened if the diameter of this part of the furnace is increased. Inert gases may be introduced around the central electrode. In Fig. 3 the upper part G of the furnace mantle forms one electrode and is adapted to be cooled. The insulating mantle is formed by a tube H. The gases pass over the hot exterior of the tube before, passing into the arc. Examples are described of the production of acetylene from hydrogen and methane. Hydrogen is separated from the gases leaving the reaction zone and after mixing with the necessary quantity of methane is again passed through the furnace. Alternatively the hydrogen may be caused to act on carbon monoxide to produce methane which is then treated in the furnace. The yield of acetylene is increased by the addition of ethylene, ethane or oil gas. Acetylene and hydrocyanic acid may be obtained from the residual gases obtained in the synthesis of ammonia, the gases obtained in the destructive hydrogenation of coal, tar or mineral oils, or coke oven gas. In the latter case the carbon monoxide in the gas is first converted to methane or carbon dioxide.