(551b) Fast Start-up, Fuel Flexible Cpox Reformer for Efficient Syngas Generation from Sustainable Feedstocks

Precision Combustion, Inc. (PCI) has demonstrated a Catalytic Partial Oxidation (CPOX) reforming approach for low carbon intensity hydrogen (H₂) production from sustainable feedstocks, including Synthetic liquid fuels (Synfuels). Iso-Paraffinic Kerosene (IPK) and Hydro processed Esters and Fatty Acid based Synthetic Paraffinic Kerosene (HEFA-SPK) fuels were examined. HEFA-SPK is a hydrocarbon-based renewable biofuel that is chemically equivalent to fossil diesel fuel and can be used as a drop-in replacement for aviation fuels. Test data indicated LHV-based reforming efficiency of >95% of the equilibrium value and stable operation without coking. We have been developing CPOX and other application-specific fuel reforming approaches with both liquid fuels, such as jet fuel and diesel, and other sustainable fuels.

Our CPOX designs are based on a catalyzed short contact time, high surface area support (Microlith^®), patented and manufactured by PCI. It reforms fuels to syngas in millisecond timeframes. No water or steam is needed for the fuel reformation yet coking is avoided. The short channel length, high cell density, metallic Microlith support allows exceptionally high heat and mass transfer as well improved mixing with minimal pressure drop. These ensure short startup time and fast transient response. This also permitted a compact CPOX reforming. It operates at reaction temperatures and stoichiometries that are favorable for avoiding high temperatures while operating at high selectivity to syngas (i.e., carbon formation avoidance) and overcomes challenges with alternative substrates and catalysts. These characteristics make it suitable and attractive for integration with advanced power conversion devices, e.g., solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs).

We will report data from sub-scale testing with IPK and HEFA-SPK and compare results with equilibrium predictions as well as performance data from state-of-the-art syngas generation via other approaches.