A novel model of a hydrogen production in micro reactor: Conversion reaction of methane with water vapor and catalytic

This study presents a comprehensive investigation of a thermally integrated membrane micro reactor for efficient hydrogen production through the conversion of methane with water vapor. The reactor design incorporates a catalytic Au/ZnO system to enhance performance. The effects of key operational variables, including inlet gas flow rate, pressure, temperature, water-to-methane ratio, and membrane thickness, were examined. Optimal conditions were sought to maximize methane conversion, hydrogen yield, and minimize carbon monoxide production. As feed flow increases, methane conversion decreases due to reduced retention time in the reactor. This decrease is almost six times greater at 240 °C than at 270 °C. Higher water-to-methane ratios improved methane conversion and reduced hydrogen and carbon monoxide production. Shell pressure affected methane conversion, with higher pressures resulting in decreased rates and carbon monoxide levels. As shell airflow velocity increases, methane conversion rises about 0.96 %. Tube pressure influenced hydrogen passage through the membrane, causing decreased hydrogen output from the tube section and increased output from the shell section, while reducing carbon monoxide emissions. These findings contribute to the optimization of a thermally integrated membrane micro reactor for efficient hydrogen production through water vapor-methane conversion.