Effect of energy transport on a palladium-based membrane reactor for methane steam reforming process

Energy transport in a Pd-based membrane reactor (MR) was analysed for an an nular and a tubular configuration with a one-dimensional mathematical model . This model takes into account also the energy transfer associated to the hydrogen permeation through a Pd-based membrane. The heat required by the r eaction that takes place in a tubular MR is distributed in a larger reactor length when compared to the annular MR; therefore, the heat fluxes from th e oven to the reaction side is lower in a tubular MR. Outlet MR conversion is an increasing function of the temperature, sweep factor and overall heat transfer coefficient, An annular MR at 600 degreesC reaches the maximum co nversion at a reactor length lower than 1 cm. A much higher reactor length of a tubular MR is necessary to achieve the same conversion. Un annular MR presents a better thermal performance and a higher conversion at a reactor length characteristic of a lab scale MR, and also its reaction path is near er to the optimal behaviour. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B,V. All rights rese rved.