Simulation of Partial Oxidation of Methane in an Oxygen Permeable Membrane Reactor

Recently partial oxidation of methane to hydrogen has been the subject of many researches because of the importance of hydrogen in chemical, and petrochemical industries. Membrane reactor can be a suitable choice for partial oxidation of methane to hydrogen, and synthesis gas. In this work, a one dimensional, isobaric, adiabatiac, steady state model for partial oxidation of methane in an oxygen permeable membrane reactor was investigated. The results show that inlet temperature, operating pressure, methane flow rate, and steam to methane ratio of feed affect hydrogen yield. In the similar operating condition, membrane reactor has hydrogen yield as high as fixed bed reactor without hot spots formations and catalyst deactivation.