Methane-Steam Reaction Over Nickel Catalysts in the Hynol Process

摘要

The report discusses the reaction of methane-steam over nickel catalysts in theHynol process, a process that uses biomass and natural gas as feedstocks to maximize methanol yields and minimize greenhouse gas emissions. In the study, an integral fixed-bed reactor was used to perform kinetic measurements for methane-steam reforming at simulated Hynol operating conditions. The activity of a commercially available Ni-catalysts was evaluated. A kinetic model was developed for quantitatively interpreting the experimental data. The intrinsic reaction rates at different temperatures were measured using crushed catalyst pellets, resulting in an activation energy of 28 kcal/mol. The effectiveness factor for the commercial catalyst pellets (16 mm in diameter and 10 mm long) was determined and correlated as a function of reaction temperature. Experimental results indicate that a steam-to-carbon ration of 2.5 is appropriate. The hydrogen in the feed gas helps catalysts remain in the reducing state and prevents carbon deposition.