PATENTS

      58.   ------.  [ATWELL, H. V.]  (The Texas Co.).  Process for the Production of Synthesis Gas.  United States Patent 2,448,290. Aug. 31, 1948; appl. Filed Dec. 18, 1943. Serial No. 514,769: 3 claims (Cl. 23-212).  Chem. Abs., vol. 42,1948. p. 9125.

CH₄, steam, and CO₂, in molecular ratio 4:3 1, are reacted in presence of powdered material, such as Al₂O₃, MgO, and diatomaceous earth, to form synthesis gas CO: H₂ (1:2).  The heat carrier, 50-500 p, impregnated or coated with a catalytic agent, such as Ni, is suspended in the reactants and supplies heat for the reaction.  The carrier is removed continuously from the conversion zone, passed through a combustion zone wherein the heat content is restored, and returned to the converter.  7 United States patents cited.