Development of a Thermally and Electrically Self-Sustaining Hydrogen Generation System Directly Using Petcoke

This project aims to develop an advanced, thermally and electrically self-sustaining hydrogen generation system for small petroleum refineries application. The hydrogen generation system involves the development of a viable means for converting the chemical energy of petcoke to hydrogen at a low cost and high efficiency. The approach involves the development and construction of tubular solid oxide fuel cells and solid oxide fuel-assisted electrolysis cells. Cathode characteristics will be modified by a unique process to increase the electrochemical reaction sites. In Phase I, a petcoke reactor will be built and characterized by measuring petcoke-derived fuel compositions at different operating conditions. In Phase II, a hydrogen generation system providing 200~300 watts electricity will be built and experimentally tested. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: The technology is expected to provide the following benefits: (1) an electrically and thermally self-sustaining hydrogen generation system that directly uses petcoke fuel; (2) a consolidated system for hydrogen generation at high efficiency; (3) low cost of hydrogen production; (4) easy CO2 separation; and (5) a marketable by-product. Commercial applications should include hydrogen generation for small petroleum refineries, stand-alone hydrogen refueling stations, and energy storage in hydrogen form for peak load shaving.