SBIR Phase I: Methanation of Diesel Fuels

This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I research project will develop and demonstrate proof-of-concept of a Microlith-based catalytic reactor for reforming Tier II Diesel fuel such that it contains > or =10% CH4 in addition to CO and H2 without allowing coke formation. The proposed reactor will displace the current need for secondary methanation and associated support components, cost and efficiency loss. Key technical challenges to be examined in the project include identifying appropriate methanation-favored conditions for distillate fuels as well as the kinetics of catalyst performance that favor direct methanation pathways. Achieving sufficiently robust, efficient and low cost reforming of liquid fuels suitable for SOFC/MCFCs would help enable the ready use of these fuel cell technologies for transportation applications. Cost barriers remain key barriers to use of fuel cells, and this proposed advance offers to substantially simplify the reforming value train. Key initial applications would be for commercial truck APUs and military ships.