A review of solar methane reforming systems

• Published in: International journal of hydrogen energy 2015-10, Vol.40 (38), p.12929-12955
• Main Authors: Sheu, Elysia J., Mokheimer, Esmail M.A., Ghoniem, Ahmed F.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Fuel conversion; Hybrid solar-fossil fuel; Solar receiver-reactor; Solar reforming
• ISSN: 0360-3199; 1879-3487
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijhydene.2015.08.005

Because of the increasing demand for energy and the associated rise in greenhouse gas emissions, there is much interest in the use of renewable sources such as solar energy in electricity and fuels generation. One problem with solar energy, however, is that it is difficult to economically convert the radiation into usable energy at the desired locations and times, both daily and seasonally. One method to overcome this space-time intermittency is through the production of chemical fuels. In particular, solar reforming is a promising method for producing chemical fuels by reforming and/or water/carbon dioxide splitting. In this paper, a review of solar reforming systems is presented, as well as a comparison between these systems and a discussion on areas for potential innovation including chemical looping and membrane reactors. Moreover, a brief overview of catalysis in the context of reforming is presented. •A review of solar reforming systems is presented.•A critical comparison of the different solar reforming systems is performed.•Potential innovation avenues and research needs for the area of solar reforming are identified.