Nanomaterials for Fuel Processing Applications

摘要

A NanoSpray Combustion process has been used to synthesize a variety of nano-sized materials for use as catalysts to generate hydrogen from heavy hydrocarbon fuels via steam reformation. The hydrogen generation capability of these catalysts has been demo nstrated with ultra-low-sulfur-diesel (ULSD) and Jet A. Initial hydrogen conversion efficiencies of up to 80% have been achieved with some catalysts that have logged over 140 hours of operation. Due to the high surface areas associated with these nano-sized catalysts, hydrogen generation could even be carried out at a temperature of 600C, significantly lower than what is typically used in convention hydrocarbon steam reformers. While our current studies utilize low-sulfur fuels, we are also researching approaches to desulfurize fuel prior to reformation. Nanomaterials and processes for desulfurization will also be discussed.