Systems and methods for processing methane and other gases

Abstract

Systems and methods for processing methane and other gases are disclosed. A representative method in accordance with one embodiment includes directing a first portion of a gas stream through a first adsorbent while exchanging heat between a second adsorbent and a third adsorbent. The method can further include directing a second portion of the gas stream through the third adsorbent while exchanging heat between the first and second adsorbents. The method can still further include directing a third portion of the gas stream through the second adsorbent while exchanging heat between the first and third adsorbents. In further particular aspects, the adsorbent can be used to remove carbon dioxide from a flow of methane. In other particular aspects, a heat exchange fluid that is not in direct contact with the adsorbents is used to transfer heat among the adsorbents.

1 . A method for processing a gas stream, comprising:
 removing a first portion of a constituent of a gas stream from a first portion of the gas stream by adsorbing the first portion of the constituent to a first adsorbent;   transferring heat from a second adsorbent to the first adsorbent to heat and at least partially purge the first adsorbent and cool the second adsorbent;   removing a second portion of the constituent from a second portion of the gas stream by adsorbing the second portion of the constituent to a third adsorbent;   transferring heat from the first adsorbent to the third adsorbent to heat and at least partially purge the third adsorbent and cool the first adsorbent;   removing a third portion of the constituent from a third portion of the gas stream by adsorbing the third portion of the constituent to the second adsorbent; and   transferring heat from the third adsorbent to the second adsorbent to heat and at least partially purge the second adsorbent and cool the third adsorbent.   
     
     
         2 - 50 . (canceled)