Synthesis gas generation by chemical-looping reforming in a continuously operating laboratory reactor

Abstract

Chemical-looping reforming is a technology that can be used for partial oxidation and steam reforming of hydrocarbon fuels. This paper describes continuous chemical-looping reforming of natural gas in a laboratory reactor consisting of two interconnected fluidized beds. Particles composed of 60 wt% NiO and 40 wt% MgAl 2O 4 are used as bed material, oxygen carrier and reformer catalyst. There is a continuous circulation of particles between the reactors. In the fuel reactor, the particles are reduced by the fuel, which in turn is partially oxidized to H 2, CO, CO 2 and H 2O. In the air reactor the reduced oxygen carrier is reoxidized with air. Complete conversion of natural gas was achieved and the selectivity towards H 2 and CO was high. In total, 41 h of reforming were recorded. Formation of solid carbon was noticed for some cases. Adding 25 vol% steam to the natural gas reduced or eliminated the carbon formation.