Syngas Production from Propane Using Atmospheric Non-thermal Plasma

• Published in: Plasma chemistry and plasma processing 2009-04, Vol.29 (2), p.119-130
• Main Authors: Ouni, F., Khacef, A., Cormier, J. M.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Byproducts; Characterization and Evaluation of Materials; Chemistry; Chemistry and Materials Science; Classical Mechanics; Conversion; Inorganic Chemistry; Mathematical models; Mechanical Engineering; Original Paper; Physics; Plasma Physics; Propane; Reactor design; Reactors; Reforming; Steam electric power generation
• ISSN: 0272-4324; 1572-8986
• DOI: 10.1007/s11090-009-9166-2

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 (H 2 concentration up to 50%). By-products (C 2 -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 C 3 H 8 conversion and then H 2 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.