THERMODYNAMIC EVALUATION OF PROCESSES FOR HYDROGEN PRODUCTION FROM CARBONACEOUS FUEL

This research work presents the thermodynamic analysis of hydrogen production using steam methane reforming process at different conditions. The model is developed using HSC 4.1 software and spreadsheet. Methane is chosen to represent the carbonaceous fuel and steam methane reforming process (once through and cyclic) for hydrogen production is analyzed based on 1st law and 2nd law of thermodynamics i.e., energetic and exergetic efficiencies. The mass, energy and exergy analysis of each step is done. The optimal condition for production of maximum hydrogen is found using CO2 removal agent and O2 transfer compound. The efficiency is calculated as a function of steam content, temperature and amount of CO2 removal agent and O2 transfer compound. The pressure is kept constant at one atmosphere. Operating temperature, CaO loading, Fe2O3 loading and H2O content is determined from the once through process. It is found that the maximum H2 production is with the cyclic process. Maximum H2 produced in cyclic process with CaO & Fe2O3 loadings is 99.2%. Also CO2 content is comparatively lower in cyclic process. Theoretical efficiencies can be used to compare with the available data which will help to minimize the losses in the process. The results can be used as a baseline for the design of H2 production technology. The main aim of this research is to develop a thermodynamic protocol for evaluating hydrogen production processes