Thesis Abstracts 2004
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The Design, Assembly and Performance Testing of a 1 KW Steam Reforming Reactor for Processing Diesel Fuel
By: Peter T. Harasti (MASc.)
Abstract
The solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) can convert hydrogen (H2) and carbon monoxide (CO) gases into useful electric power. Steam reforming of diesel fuel yields a high percentage of H 2 and CO gas. Generating electricity with a SOFC has reduced toxic emissions and greater efficiencies compared to a diesel generator.
A novel, diesel-steam reforming reactor was designed, assembled and tested. The goal for the reactor was to produce hydrogen-rich gas and generate 1 kW of electricity from a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC). The reactor was based on an annular pack bed of sulphur tolerant catalyst with a central heating core to provide the heat of reaction. High-temperature alloys permit operation above 950°C.
A reactor test station was also assembled to evaluate the performance of the reactor. The test station was capable of simulating the potential recuperation of waste heat from a SOFC for experimental data collection and analysis. Initial testing for the proof of concept used dodecane (C 12 H 26 ) to simulate diesel fuel.
The reactor successfully produced 1 kW of hydrogen-rich gas from a dodecane-steam feed. Complete conversion of the fuel was achieved with a steam-to-carbon ratio of 4 and a catalyst bed temperature of approximately 900 °C. The product gas composition was consistent with thermodynamic equilibrium predictions. No signs of carbon formation were detected at the fuel injection point or the catalyst bed.
