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Process development and deployment for the direct reforming of crude oil to hydrogen and carbon materials


    Problem Statement

    Hydrogen is a clean energy source and carrier because of its non−polluting combustion, making it an excellent alternative to the current fossil fuel-dominated energy scenario. Nonetheless, there are several critical challenges to implementing a broad sustainable use of hydrogen. In this project, we develop a laboratory−scale setup with stable operation and high hydrogen production.

    We aim at assessing (i) different hydrocarbon feedstock (from n-heptane to crude oil) fed to the reactor with water as emulsions, carried by steam or vaporized; (ii) steam reforming (SR) and auto thermal reforming (ATR); and (iii) stable and energy efficient catalysts for the efficient production of hydrogen inside packed, fluidized, and multifunctional reactors. These, coupled with carbon capture technologies, minimize the carbon footprint of the overall process.

    We support our research with simulations and techno−economic analysis to assess the approach's feasibility. C2H can use the current refinery infrastructure to reduce costs and the impact of market volatility on refinery operations.

    C2H-REF

    Goals

    • Develop and scale up advanced catalysts and reactors for converting crude to hydrogen
    • Model process simulations to analyze the viability of the process 
    • Scaling the technical catalysts for their demanding application: endothermic process, poisoning, massive coke deposition, and fluidized-bed reactors
    • Analyze different process conditions to optimize hydrogen production and stability in the process

    Related People

    Related Publications

    Silicon carbide in catalysis: from inert bed filler to catalytic support and multifunctional material

    by Kulkarni, Velisoju, Tavares, Dikhtiarenko, Gascon, Castaño
    Catal. Rev. Year: 2023 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/01614940.2022.2025670

    Abstract

    Silicon carbide (SiC) or carborundum has unparalleled thermal stability and conductivity compared with many other materials. This feature together with its unique photoelectrical properties (tunable band gap: 2.39–3.33 eV), low thermal expansion, high strength, and good chemical and thermal stability makes it an ideal inert solid in catalysis. The evolution of methods for synthesizing SiC has also progressively endowed it with additional features at the multiscale. This review tracks the development of SiC from a secondary to a leading role material in catalysis. First, the intrinsic properties of SiC are discussed and compared with other state-of-the-art catalytic materials. The synthetic methods are systematically reviewed and compared. Then, the applications of SiC in catalysis are assessed, paying particular attention to those that involve C1 chemistry (Fischer–Tropsch Synthesis and the valorization of CO2 and CH4), photocatalysis and biomass conversion. Finally, the potential future applications of SiC are also addressed and discussed.

    Keywords

    CO2 CHA REF HCE