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Theoretical and experimental studies for a compact H2 generator, integrated with second generation fuel cells

Objective

Fuel cells use hydrogen to generate electricity. Due to the unavailability of pure hydrogen, other fuels can be used, such as natural gas (methane) or methanol, but a further conversion step of the fuels to hydrogen is needed.
This project will develop an adiabatic reactor prototype of 5 Nm3 H2/h for the catalytic selective partial oxidation of methane (CSPOM). The catalyst will be chosen from the most suitable Ni supported commercial catalysts and be able to achieve syngas yield in the order of 95 %. To provide a plant analysis to make an overall assessment of the process, including the extent of gas clean-up required for the integration of the fuel processor (CSPOM) with different classes of fuel cells, a technoeconomical evaluation, and a comparison of the results with the conventional process (steam reforming of methane).


- Screening and evaluation of commercially available Ni-supported catalysts. Catalytic tests and characterization (Messina, Madrid)
- Design and construction of an adiabatic reactor prototype of 5 Nm3H2/h. (Messina,Bari)
- Experimental tests on the prototype, in order to define the optimized reaction conditions and to evaluate the endurance tests. (Bari,Messina) - Balance of plant analysis in order to make an assessment of the requirements for gas clean-up and of the basic design of the integrated system "fuel processor + fuel cell".(Messina, Bari)
- Techno-economic evaluation based upon advantages and proven and/or expected savings, from introduction of the CSPOM concept in combination with different categories of fuel cells (i.e. SOFC, MCFC, PAFC,SPE). ( Messina)

Call for proposal

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Coordinator

NATIONAL RESEARCH COUNCIL OF ITALY
EU contribution
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Address
Via Salita Santa Lucia sopra Contesse 5
98126 MESSINA
Italy

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Total cost
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Participants (2)