Improving the Methanation Process

Abstract

The production of substitute natural gas based on coal or biomass is once again back in focus, initiated by rising natural gas prices and the desire to become independent from natural gas imports. It is necessary to optimize the commercial process, e.g., by using harsher process conditions to reduce the recycle ratio. In line with this the development of new catalytic materials as well as the understanding of the reaction kinetics to control the heat of reaction and predict the lifetime of the catalyst is required.

Nanoporous Materials as New Engineered Catalysts for the Synthesis of Green Fuels

“…In this review, we focus only on CO 2 methanation for the SNG process. Methanation involves the catalytic hydrogenation of carbon oxides to provide an efficient alternative to conventional natural gas [ 41 ]; moreover, the infrastructure for handling CH 4 is well established. SNG is considered a promising approach for obtaining this valuable, high-combustion-efficiency gaseous fuel which can be used in current hydrocarbon-based automobiles and transportation systems while reducing dependence on petroleum; in addition, this fuel is considered environmentally friendly as it recovers CO 2 used as reactant in its synthesis [ 42 , 43 , 44 , 45 , 46 ].…”

Methanation for Synthetic Natural Gas Production – Chemical Reaction Engineering Aspects

“…recent publications indicate that lurgi, now integrated into the Engineering and construction division of Air liquide, still or again is active in further developing the process, especially with regard to the new challenges when methanation is used for power to gas applications and when converting biomass [102].…”

“…Alternatively, high recirculation through a fixed catalyst bed may be used [102]. Alternatively, high recirculation through a fixed catalyst bed may be used [102].…”

CO2 Reduction to Substitute Natural Gas: Toward a Global Low Carbon Energy System

“…The bulk conversion of CO 2 to SNG calls for the use of dedicated materials and tailored, engineered processes. For instance, high recycling ratios that severely impact the operational costs of the process can be avoided by increasing the conversion, by improving the catalyst activity at low temperature, and by controlling the temperature rise by smart heat management 32. Furthermore, the use of methanation on small scales, such as bio‐farms, also calls for a simplified process system, with reliable and safe use of compact equipment.…”