Plasma-Assisted Catalysis For CO2 Utilization

Dry methane reforming consumes two greenhouse gases (carbon dioxide and methane) and coverts them to syngas that can be used to produce liquid fuels and other chemicals. Using catalysts, this reaction occurs at temperatures of 600-900oC, yet conversion has been limited and carbon-forming reactions that deactivate catalysts are often a problem. In this Phase I study, we propose an innovative approach to increase conversion and a means for de-coking catalysts. In this Phase I study, we will combine plasma and catalytic dry reforming, which has the potential to dramatically increase conversion (by a factor of 5) and further propose an innovative approach based on the use a CO2 plasma to de-coke the catalyst. ACT has established partnerships with Lehigh University and a global syngas manufacturer to support the proposed work. ACT will develop a plasma-catalysis reactor, evaluate different catalysts, and perform experiments for different inlet compositions, flow conditions, and plasma powers with promising catalysts. In parallel, we will work with our commercial partner to tailor the technology to meet industry performance and cost metrics. Syngas can be used to make liquid fuels and a host of different chemicals. While most syngas today is made by steam methane reforming, the proposed improvements to dry reforming should enable it to be highly competitive. Moreover, the proposed technology will convert carbon dioxide and methane otherwise emitted to the environment to high value products. It also offers a means to reduce our dependence on foreign oil as synthetic fuels can be made from domestic resources (inexpensive natural gas/ shale gas is available and carbon dioxide is also available in the form of biogas or from power plants).