Syngas Production from Propane Using Atmospheric Non-thermal Plasma

TL;DR

This study demonstrates efficient propane steam reforming using atmospheric non-thermal plasma, producing high hydrogen yields with low by-products, and suggests potential for improved hydrogen production through reactor design enhancements.

Contribution

It introduces a novel application of atmospheric non-thermal plasma for propane reforming, combining experimental results with thermodynamic modeling to optimize hydrogen yield.

Findings

Hydrogen concentration up to 50% achieved

By-products kept below 6% concentration

Process efficiency correlates with gas fraction in discharge

Abstract

Propane steam reforming using a sliding discharge reactor was investigated under atmospheric pressure and low temperature (420 K). Non-thermal plasma steam reforming proceeded efficiently and hydrogen was formed as a main product (H2 concentration up to 50%). By-products (C2-hydrocarbons, methane, carbon dioxide) were measured with concentrations lower than 6%. The mean electrical power injected in the discharge is less than 2 kW. The process efficiency is described in terms of propane conversion rate, steam reforming and cracking selectivity, as well as by-products production. Chemical processes modelling based on classical thermodynamic equilibrium reactor is also proposed. Calculated data fit quiet well experimental results and indicate that the improvement of C3H8 conversion and then H2 production can be achieved by increasing the gas fraction through the discharge. By improving the reactor design, the non-thermal plasma has a potential for being an effective way for supplying hydrogen or synthesis gas.