Modeling and simulation of fixed-bed, fluidized-bed, and autothermal reformers

Abstract

Currently, syngas and H2 are two of the most important intermediates and raw materials that produce high-value products and are considered as energy carriers in the future. Steam reforming of natural gas (methane) is the most widely used technology in the industries for the production of syngas and H2. The promising applications of H2 and syngas in different processes, especially as clean energy sources, have attracted the attention of many researchers. Simulation and modeling of chemical processes could help to improve understanding of the whole process and increase their efficiency by the optimization of the operating conditions. In addition, using mathematical tools to describe chemical processes could save time and money. Regarding these benefits, it is necessary to evaluate the conventional processes of H2 and syngas production from natural gas from the viewpoint of modeling and simulation. In this chapter, due to the importance of H2 and syngas in chemical processes, the methane steam reforming in fixed-bed, fluidized-bed, and autothermal reformers has been investigated with the approach of equipment modeling and simulation. Different types of models and their simplifying assumptions are also discussed in detail. © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.