System and Method Using a Microwave-Transparent Reaction Chamber for Production of Fuel from a Carbon-Containing Feedstock

Abstract

Approaches for producing fuel from a carbon-containing feedstock are described. Feedstock is introduced into a substantially microwave-transparent reaction chamber. A microwave source emits microwaves which are directed through the microwave-transparent wall of the reaction chamber to impinge on the feedstock within the reaction chamber. The microwave source may be rotated relative to the reaction chamber. The feedstock is subjected to microwaves until the desired reaction occurs to produce a fuel. A catalyst can be mixed with the feedstock to enhance the reaction process.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A system for producing fuel from a carbon-containing feedstock, comprising:
 a first reaction chamber comprising a first microwave-transparent chamber wall and a first reaction cavity configured to hold the carbon-containing feedstock and having a steam exit port;   a second reaction chamber, separate from the first reaction chamber, the second reaction chamber comprising a second microwave-transparent chamber wall and a second reaction cavity configured to hold the carbon-containing feedstock;   a microwave subsystem comprising at least one microwave device configured to emit microwaves when energized, the microwave device positioned relative to the first and second reaction chambers so that the microwaves are directed through the first and second microwave-transparent chamber walls and into the first and second reaction cavities, respectively;   a mechanism configured to provide relative motion between the microwave device and at least one of the first and second reaction chambers; and   a motor-driven feedstock transport mechanism configured to mechanically compress the carbon-containing feedstock in the first reaction chamber and to move the carbon-containing feedstock into the second reaction chamber;   wherein the microwave subsystem is configured to cause the microwave device to heat the carbon-containing feedstock in the first reaction chamber to a first temperature of about 100° C. while steam exits from the first reaction chamber via the steam exit port and to heat the carbon-containing feedstock in the second reaction chamber to a second temperature, different from the first temperature, and wherein the system is configured so that reactions in the first and second reaction chambers convert the carbon-containing feedstock to a transportation fuel product at an output of the system.