Location History:
- Boulder, CO (US) (1997)
- Lafayette, CO (US) (2001)
Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1997-2001
Title: Innovations of Eugene Long
Introduction
Eugene Long is a notable inventor based in Boulder, CO, who has made significant contributions to the field of hydrogen generation. With a total of 3 patents to his name, Long's work focuses on creating efficient and portable solutions for hydrogen production.
Latest Patents
One of his latest inventions is the Self-regulating Hydrogen Generator. This apparatus includes a reactant with a vapor phase at greater than atmospheric pressure. It features a tank for housing the reactant, such as ammonia, which communicates with a reactor containing a solid reactant like lithium aluminum tetrahydride. A check valve is strategically placed between the tank and the reactor to control the flow of ammonia. The heat generated by the reaction is utilized to raise the temperature of the reactant in the tank. Additionally, the reactor can incorporate a gas flow enhancing material to facilitate gas flow, while filters and getters are employed downstream to remove unwanted solids and impurities from the hydrogen gas stream.
Another significant invention by Long is the Portable Hydrogen Generator. This device employs substantially adiabatic hydrolysis and thermal decomposition of chemical hydrides to provide controllable hydrogen generation from a small, lightweight container. The generator includes a thermally isolated container for the chemical hydride, a preheater to heat the hydride to a predetermined temperature, and a controlled water supply to maintain adiabatic conditions. A buffer is also included to supply an initial flow of hydrogen during startup, absorb excess hydrogen during shutdown, and smooth the hydrogen flow due to changing loads.
Career Highlights
Eugene Long has worked with prominent companies such as Ball Corporation and Ball Aerospace & Technologies Corp. His experience in these organizations has contributed to his expertise in hydrogen generation technologies.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Long has collaborated with notable coworkers, including Frank Lynch and Jeff Schmidt. Their combined efforts have further advanced the innovations in hydrogen generation.
Conclusion
Eugene Long's contributions to hydrogen generation technology demonstrate his commitment to innovation and efficiency. His patents reflect a deep understanding of the complexities involved in producing hydrogen in a practical and portable manner.