Reactor feed systems

A method of supplying a feed material to a pyrolysis reactor with a feed system, wherein the feed system comprises a feed conduit having an inlet for receiving the feed material, and an outlet for discharging the feed material into the pyrolysis reactor, the feed conduit having a first section comprising the inlet and a second section comprising the outlet, the first section accommodating an auger, and the second section having a length to average internal diameter ratio of from 4:1 to 20:1 and comprising at least one plug forming zone, wherein the second section further comprises at least one contracting portion, and wherein the feed system further comprises a temperature regulator downstream of the at least one contracting portion for controlling a temperature of the plug forming zone of the second section, and/or a portion of the second section downstream of the plug forming zone, wherein the temperature regulator comprises a jacket that is switchable between a cooling mode and a heating mode, wherein the jacket is provided adjacent the feed conduit;

• and
• wherein the method comprises operating the auger to convey feed material from the inlet towards the outlet and to discharge the feed material into the second section, and wherein said discharging of the feed material into the second section causes the feed material to accumulate into a plug of feed material in the plug forming zone, thereby forming a gas barrier that inhibits flow of gas into and/or out of the pyrolysis reactor through the feed conduit, and
• wherein the method further comprises operating the temperature regulator in (i) a cooling mode, and (ii) a heating mode.