Pilot unit of carbon dioxide methanation using nickel-based catalysts

Abstract

The catalytic hydrogenation of carbon dioxide is known for over 100 years. In recent years, the importance of this reaction has significantly increased due to synthetic natural gas production (SNG). Synthetic natural gas is produced from renewable energy sources (such as wind, hydro or solar power). Excess electric energy can be used for the production of hydrogen via electrolysis. This work focuses on the synthesis and characterization of a laboratory prepared nickel-based catalyst. This catalytic activity is compared to that of a commercial nickel-based catalyst. This manuscript also describes the methanation pilot unit where the catalytic tests took place. Energy is supplied to the pilot unit from a small photovoltaic power plant. Catalytic tests were performed at different pressures and temperatures.