SiC-based structured catalysts for a high-efficiency electrified dry reforming of methane

The process of dry reforming of methane (DRM) can allow the conversion of methane and carbon dioxide, the two main greenhouse gases (GHG), into syngas which can be either used as feedstock for chemicals production or it can undergo through separation step for H2 recovery. However, the heat required for the reaction is obtained by combustion of fossil fuels, so CO2 footprint of the process is significant. Another problematic aspect of the process concerns the heat transfer to the catalytic volume: for allowing the catalytic bed to reach and maintain the reaction temperature, the heating medium outside the tubes containing the catalyst must have a temperature higher than 1000 °C. A process intensification could be performed by combining two innovative technologies: (i) the use of electrification for the energy supply (microwave heating and direct electrification) and (ii) the adoption of structured catalysts with high thermal conductivity.