Hydrogen sulphide to hydrogen via H2S methane reformation: Thermodynamics and process scheme assessment

• Published in: International journal of hydrogen energy 2022-04, Vol.47 (35), p.15612-15623
• Main Authors: Spatolisano, Elvira, De Guido, Giorgia, Pellegrini, Laura A., Calemma, Vincenzo, de Angelis, Alberto R., Nali, Micaela
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: CO2 emissions; H2 gas-grid distribution; H2 production; H2S valorisation; Methane reformation
• ISSN: 0360-3199; 1879-3487
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijhydene.2022.03.090

Hydrogen Sulphide Methane Reformation (HSMR) represents a valid alternative for the simultaneous H2S valorisation and hydrogen production at the industrial scale, without direct CO2 emissions. The major concerns about the process commercialization are the possible coke formation in the reaction zone and the lack of active and selective catalysts. The study of the thermodynamics is the essential preliminary step for the reaction phenomena understanding. In this work, a deep thermodynamic analysis is performed to explore the system behaviour as a function of temperature, pressure, and inlet feed composition, using the Aspen Plus RGibbs module. In this way, the optimal process operating conditions to avoid carbon lay down can be identified. Assessed the system's thermodynamics, a preliminary process scheme is developed and simulated in Aspen Plus V11.0®, considering hydrogen production and its distribution in pipeline with methane. The process performances are discussed in terms of products' purity and process energy consumptions. [Display omitted] •H2SMR is studied for the simultaneous H2S valorisation and H2 production.•The deep thermodynamic assessment of the reacting mixture is performed.•A process scheme for gaseous H2 production to pipeline distribution is proposed.•The process performances are analysed in terms of heat and material balances.