n-Heptane reforming in a system of reactors-interstage membrane to separate hydrogen Original Research Article

A system of two plug-flow reactors equipped with an interstaged tubular palladium-silver (PdAg) membrane for ex situ H2 separation, was tested for n-heptane reforming on a commercial PtAl2O3 catalyst. This system afforded a 65% higher toluene yield at 400°C and 17 bar than the same system without interstage membrane. Proper control of the permeate H2 pressure inside the membrane unit seemed to be crucial for maintaining the permeability of the membrane. Low H2 pressures resulted in a decrease of H2 permeability.