Inductively coupled plasma (ICP) reforming converts carbonaceous compounds
into a fuel for use in generating electrical power. Energy rich
hydrocarbon fuels, such as coal, marine diesel, oils, and hydrocarbon
wastes are employed as a feedstock for the ICP, which transforms the
feedstock into a fuel that can be used by fuel cells and gas turbines for
the production of electricity. The overall efficiency of an ICP-based
electrical power system can be increased by providing partial oxidation
within the reaction vessel. The partial oxidation conditions consume a
small amount of the reformed fuel gas, thereby liberating sufficient
thermal energy to reduce the electrical power requirements of the ICP to
maintain desired reactor temperatures, and providing an increase in the
overall net electrical power production. The integrated power production
system can also adjust to meet an increased requirement for process heat
and steam by balancing the effect of partial oxidation.