System optimization and cost analysis of plasma catalytic reforming of natural gas

Plasma reforming could provide advantages in hydrocarbon reforming especially in small-to-medium-scale plants and in plants with fast transients. The combination of a thermal plasma reformer operating in partial oxidation mode with a catalyst bed will be described. Reduced concentrations of CO (1–3% vol) can be achieved, with high hydrogen yields and minimal plasmatron electrical power requirements. A model for the cost of hydrogen production from natural gas has been developed. The model includes hydrogen cleanup utilizing a conventional pressure swing adsorption unit. The model uses experimentally determined conversion yields and operational parameters. The conditions that result in system optimization and cost minimization have been determined.