Project Info
Membrane reactors for H2 production and NH3 synthesis
Doug Way | dway@mines.edu
In this continuing project with support from the NSF and DOE ARPA-E, we are making devices that allow product hydrogen to be separated as it is produced by either CH4 reforming or NH3 decomposition. In this way we can exceed the equilibrium conversion and produce both pure H2 and concentrated CO2 for either sequestration or conversion to other useful products. We do this by combining hydrogen selective metallic membranes and extremely active nanocrystalline catalysts. These devices have no moving parts and are very efficient volumetrically.
More Information
http://www.scientia.global/professor-colin-wolden-professor-douglas-way-saving-the-world-through-fertiliser-and-fuel/
Abu El Hawa, H., Paglieri, S. N., Morris, Craig C., Harale, A. and J. Douglas Way, “Application of a Pd-Ru composite membrane to hydrogen production in a high temperature membrane reactor,” Separation and Purification Technology, 147, 388-397(2015). http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.seppur.2015.02.005
Abu El Hawa, H., S.-T. Lundin, N. S. Patki, and J. D. Way, “Steam Methane Reforming in a Pd-Au membrane reactor: Long term assessment,” Int. J. Hydrogen Energy, 41(24), 10193–10201(2016). http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.ijhydene.2016.04.244
Grand Engineering Challenge: Develop carbon sequestration methods
Student Preparation
Qualifications
At least junior standing in the Chemical and Biological Engineering Dept. by fall of 2018. Preference will be given to applicants with senior standing in CBE who have successfully complete CBEN 375 Mass Transfer.
Time Commitment
10-20 hours/month
Skills/Techniques Gained
Membrane and catalyst synthesis and characterization, membrane reactor performance measurements via mass spectrometer and FTIR sensors, materials characterization via SEM/TEM, XRD, and AFM.
Mentoring Plan
The undergraduate student receiving the fellowship will work with existing graduate students and post-doctoral fellows in the laboratory. We will have weekly meetings with Prof. Way, post-doctoral fellows, and the graduate students (Tommy and Zhenyu).