This invention relates to a process as well as a burner for producing carbon monoxide, in which liquid hydrocarbons such as e.g. oil or natural gas are non-catalytically decomposed into carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen (H2) at high temperatures. The steam previously used as atomizing and cooling medium is replaced by carbon dioxide, which downstream of the reactor system is separated from the synthesis gas produced and recirculated. To reduce the expenditure of apparatus for providing the gasification medium, the carbon dioxide is withdrawn from the succeeding gas washing, supplied to the burner and expanded through one or more nozzles directly before the orifice opening for the fuel, the differential pressure of the expansion of the carbon dioxide only being 2% to 50% of the reactor pressure. |